Former Vice President Cheney wasn't afraid to pick sides this morning on Face the Nation. When asked who he supported in the recent back-and-forth between Rush Limbaugh and Colin Powell, Cheney backed Limbaugh.
(YOUTUBE SCREENSHOT)Photos (1 of 1)
Cheney takes Rush Limbaugh over Colin Powell
By Jimmy Orr | 05.10.09
No, Will Ferrell’s new movie “Land of the Lost” is not a documentary on the current status of the GOP. But that wouldn’t be an inaccurate title.
How to find its bearings?
Former Vice President Cheney said the answer is not to “move dramatically to the left.” He told Face the Nation host Bob Schieffer that Republicans can “win elections when we have good, solid conservative principles to run upon and based our policies on those principles.”
The discussion on the heart of the Republican party has been a hot one since the November election. It heated up again last week when former Secretary of State Colin Powell said the party would best served if Rush Limbaugh weren’t around.
To that Limbaugh said that Powell should leave the GOP.
Pick sides
Who does Cheney side with?
“Well if I had to choose in terms of being a Republican, I’d go with Rush Limbaugh,” Cheney said. “My take on it was Colin had already left the party — I didn’t know he was still a Republican.”
“You think that’s he not a Republican?” Schieffer followed.
“He endorsed the Democratic candidate for president, Barack Obama, so I assume that’s some indication of his loyalty and his interest,” Cheney said.
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2. Bob | 05.10.09
It’s nice to know after 8 years that Cheney’s loyalty is with his political party, rather than his country, America, and the citizens (all of us) that he was elected to serve. At the very least, he should be required to pay back every cent of his VP salary. He can easily cover it from his Halliburton profits.
4. Willem | 05.10.09
Why is this man still in the headlines ?
He should be awnsering questions about: torture, WMD, illigal wars, outing cia agents, etc, etc.
He is being lett off too easy.
5. Jim Dandy | 05.10.09
I have stopped watching Face the Nation altogether. The host (can’t remember his name) and his guests more and more represent what can only be called crackpots, for lack of a better name. Giving Cheney airtime to justify his crimes is actually becoming complicit in those crimes.
6. tm02 | 05.10.09
It sounds to me that if you look at 2 candidates and believe that 1 is better for the country that the other you still should endorse the candidate who is not qualified just because he is from your party. This sounds like stupid to me. But that should not be a surprise from someone who has lied and deceived the American people for the past 8 years to further his own agenda. This to me sounds like UN-AMERICAN.
7. shrink | 05.10.09
It’s not surprising, coming from Dick Cheney… but when a party chooses the likes of Rush Limbaugh over someone like Colin Powell: a military hero and statesman, that pretty much seals their fate.
8. Cal Godot | 05.10.09
Dick Cheney has no class. Isn’t it traditional that White House alumnae not speak ill of the current occupant? Clinton certainly held his tongue for years, as did VP Gore. Criticism of President Bush was not commonly heard from these two men. Few former Prezzes or Veeps have gone around doing the sort of mudslinging, fear-mongering, and outright lying that Cheney has been doing. A disgusting spectacle of craven greed and selfishness, Cheney is only concerned with his legacy and not the safety, security and prosperity of America. From failing to protect the nation on 9/11, through illegal wars and torture, and now to unfairly criticizing the duly elected President, Cheney is little more than a traitor to the nation and its ideals. What he knows of loyalty could be contained in a thimble. Count this longtime Republican voter (since 1980) disgusted with the venal and ignorant path chosen by Cheney and his ilk. They have done more harm to America than help.
9. lisa | 05.10.09
I have had it, I have HAD it with the GOP. I’m sorry, but this is ridiculous. You can’t behave like this and then ask me to vote for you. This party had better sit down and have a deep long think about where they want to go in the future, or they can permanently count on losing independent votes like mine. They’ve lost their way, big time.
11. Ben Henderson | 05.10.09
If Powell is a Dem for supporting Obama, does that mean Arlen Specter is a Republican for supporting Coleman in Minnesota?
14. Steve | 05.10.09
Dick Cheney is a patriot. He is right to say he doubts Colin Powells loyalty. I believe Colin Powell chose race over what is best for the country.
15. snork | 05.10.09
All extremists like Cheney are hopelessly loyal — that is the mentality that also drives notions like end results justifying the means of getting there. Are we not men?
16. Chris | 05.10.09
Mr. Cheney is correct and should be respected if only that he was elected, twice, which Mr. Powell was not. The discussion here is about the Republican party. Why would the party take advice from Democrats or Republicans-in-name-only on the direction the party should take. The fact still remains that Republicans have become so much like Democrats that it essentially ceases to be a viable party, and serves to weaken our country further.
There were WMD’s.
There was no illegal war.
He didn’t out a CIA agent, Richard Armitage did, and admitted it.
19. Bill C | 05.10.09
Colin Powell is one of the most respected people in U.S. politics. He is a thinking man who chooses wisely rather than blindly following party lines. Dr. Evil, on the other hand, just needs to go away…
20. Natalie | 05.10.09
Cheney for President! He never wavered, he never let down the country. His mind is as sharp as anyone’s and his judgment is meticulous.
Without him the World will not rise to as bright level ahead as it can! It has been a real privelege to have him lead us. What a wise, decent, and dedicated man.
21. Patriot | 05.10.09
Cheney, the prince of darkness who was part of the most disastrous administration in the recent history of USA should be last person shamelessly commenting upon the any thing. He is best suited to be placed in some dark dungeon like the one he tortured people from other countries. BUSH and CHENEY have ruined every thing that was good and best for our country. They are responsible for the death of more than 4000 of our brave soldiers in Iraq- a war based on lies, fraud and total manipulation of media.
23. Mike Fay | 05.10.09
You know I am a conservationist and went from working real well with the Republicans, including Colin Powell, in the first couple years of the Bush Administration to deploring the neo-cons and completely rejecting the Republicans. Over the years I was chased away by what I see as what today is as inappropriate as being a racist was in the 1970s. Like all of those politicians who did not embrace the civil rights movement folks like Cheney are confirming people’s reasons for permanently ridding America of elected officials who hold on to the past and try to force their beliefs on others. It has never worked in the history of mankind, except for short periods of oppression.
I believe that a person like Colin Powell will probably be running the Republican machine in five years and at that point I might even vote for a Republican. It doesn’t have to do with giving up Republican values, it has to do with Fascism at the end of the day. The Republican party must ask folks like Cheney to join a new party that represents the folks they represent, which may be about 10-15% of the American people I would think.
25. Peter Davidson | 05.10.09
Sounds logical what Dick Cheney said,its also strange the Dumocrats want to release the Guantanamo prisoners and put in jail the people that put them their..Odd party
26. JRinBellingham | 05.10.09
Keep talking Dick. The more this country enforces your “ideologies” the more we start to look like a faction of the Taliban - unrepresentative, vengeful, and rigid. The purpose of the Democracy was to express the will of the majority, not to answer to those who think they know best. The monarchies, in case you haven’t read up on your American history, were not adopted by these 50 states. We’ll take the convoluted will of the people over the misguided integrity of the few, and if you don’t like it, I hear the Middle East is recruiting warlords. You’ve got quite a resume for that. I’m sure you could get a job there.
27. Dave | 05.10.09
Only a year ago, had anyone told me I would agree with Dick (Penguin) Cheney, I might have been sorely tempted to punch them squarely in the schnozz. Yet here I am.
The GOP needs to remain an opposition fiscal and social conservative party or we need a new party altogether to oppose this new Democrat platform. Yes, I said “new” as the Democrat platform has changed just as radically as the Republican platform over the last 40 years, leaving us with a choice between RINOs and DINOs. Perhaps the new GOP mascot should be the rhinocerous and the DNC mascot, the brontosaurus or perhaps more appropo, the T. rex. Both seem hellbent on enlarging an empire, police-state, oligarchical, big brother form of government which bears little or no semblance to the very limited powers of federal government our founding fathers favored.
Poll after poll still show that despite the recent election results, this country remains a right-of-center majority on many issues, particularly when it comes to the basic principles of fiscal and personal responsibility on which our nation was founded.
Turnout in the last election was typical, meaning the majority of voters stayed home in protest over the fact we were offered two liberals to choose from. How sad to think that had turnout been greater, we might have wound up with the same results we have today.
No difference between party philosophy presents us with little or no choice at all. Even worse and far more dangerous, it opens up the possibility of representation walking in lockstep in all three branches of government, with predictable results which represent the fact that when we ignore history, we are destined to repeat it.
28. Dale | 05.10.09
After all the republican party has done to the U.S. in the recent past, it would be fitting and best if Cheney and Limbaugh led the republican party into oblivion. At this point I would prefer to see another moderate party, not having the name “Republican” come to national prominence. The name “republican” leaves a very bitter taste with me right now.
29. Jason | 05.10.09
Just how deep in trouble is this guy ? What other stuff did he commit in our name ?
There has to be a whole lot more than torture or at least whole lot more than we know off that he is responsible for - for him to launch this battle for his freedom (?) Either that or he is preparing the insane defense angle.
30. Mike Fay | 05.10.09
You know I am a conservationist and went from working real well with the Republicans, including Colin Powell, in the first couple years of the Bush Administration to deploring the neo-cons and completely rejecting the Republicans. Over the years I was chased away by what I see as what today is as inappropriate as being a racist was in the 1970s. Like all of those politicians who did not embrace the civil rights movement folks like Cheney are confirming people’s reasons for permanently ridding America of elected officials who hold on to the past and try to force their beliefs on others. It has never worked in the history of mankind, except for short periods of oppression.
I believe that a person like Colin Powell will probably be running the Republican machine in five years and at that point I might even vote for a Republican. It doesn’t have to do with giving up Republican values, it has to do with Fascism at the end of the day. The Republican party must ask folks like Cheney to join a new party that represents the folks they represent, which may be about 10-15% of the American people I would think.
31. Angel | 05.10.09
I’ll take Bo for Vice President over Cheney. At least Bo will have the pride to leave the White House on his own four legs rather than in a wheel chair. Republicans have shown the country what they can do for our Nation. Waste our money and get us in trouble with the rest of the world. THEY’RE DONE.
32. Scott | 05.10.09
We need a two party system but thanks to Cheney, Rush, and the ultrarightwing christhians and pro gun we are losing our balance. Here! Here! for Colin Powell for being a republican who has the guts to stand up to the bullies.
33. Jeff | 05.10.09
Sadly, Dick Cheney here has shown his true colors. Everything I’ve learned is you don’t vote upon party lines but on what you believe is right or who you believe will do a better job. I am a Democrat and I’ve always liked Colin Powell. He is a Republican but voted for the person he thought would do a better job, plain and simple. Sadly, Mr. Cheney here seems to believe if you don’t vote on party lines you’re a traitor. What a sad, small man.
34. steve | 05.10.09
Dennis - it was hardly overwelming and it was truely just the “just because” black vote that pushed Obama over the top. I’m neither a Republican or Democrat and I can tell you that the followers of those parties have no clue why they’re voting for either. I’s nothing more than a power struggle that has shifted for a few years….these parties have been at each others throats since Regan left office. We really do need change, but you find it with the current admin. Obama’s just anoither puppet for the hard core left thats really in power. Some left ideas are OK and some right ideas are OK. But socialism will never be OK…it’s obvious they want to move that way. Prediction: Civil War in 10 years. This is why the left wants to regulate arms. Just think on it……
35. Jon Eric | 05.10.09
Cheney is a man who hid for most of his tenure in office now all of a sudden he’s all over the TV.His big mouth might just land him in prison as a war criminal.I would love to be the first guy to waterboard him but then I guess there would be thousands of Americans in line ahead of me.
36. Russell Utoft | 05.10.09
All well put gentlemen. Let us cheer on the Republican party so they will keep people like Dick Cheney & Rush Limbaugh so they can continue the narrow view of the party & eliminate more views of others.
38. Glen | 05.10.09
It is my hope that after you spend most of your life serving our country so well that you make it to it’s second most important position, some uneducated pea brain comes along with the kind of shallow snipes as I’m reading here!
Here’s an idea: why don’t we take everything we don’t like about our system… and hang all the blame on one or two guys? Seems fair doesn’t it?
39. Drew | 05.10.09
When are all the liberal Democrats realize Obama only won because CONSERVATIVES STAYED HOME?
40. rmirod | 05.10.09
Amazing the very people who have squandered their own wealth in support of paying huge taxes and support the evisceration the meaning (liberty) and intent (freedom) of the U.S.Constitution, by rule of law based upon moral tenants, who used the mobs like ACORN and corrupt unions to gain their power, now in ignorance of their own stupidity sit in judgment of Dick Cheney who at the beginning of the Bush administration was deemed to be responsible for everything including mentoring of Bush the supposed political neophyte. But Bush had the misfortune of following a sex offender in the White House, Bill Clinton, who through the dawn of 9/11 allowed this nation to become complacent in the face of gathering clouds of Winds Of Islamic War on the USA, and provided these idiots the very safety that allows them now to breathe as free people. But in the reasoning of their own stupidity they would rather hav3e their women wearing Barkas and speaking Arabic. That’s the only conclusion one can deerive from the positions of the left.
41. precaryus | 05.10.09
Cheney is a traitor to his own country. He’s directly responsible for robbing the treasury and killing our own soldiers. Jail is too good for him.
42. David N.Y. City | 05.10.09
Cheney is a war criminal who should be sitting in a cell doing hard time.
43. Jack | 05.10.09
Well, I just want to say after reading the comments here, that is very close minded and one sided. That is your right. However, the comments are wrong. I am not a Bush/Chaney fan. Bush was a very average president. He was just better than the opposition here ran against. Now as to Chaney commenting on the current administration. I agree it has not been done in the past. But the current president is running them down and still sounds like he is campaigning for office. Probably because he doesn’t know what he is doing. No president in the past has trashed the former administration like he is doing. Obama will go down in history as being worse than Jimmy Carter. He like Carter will be a one term president. The sooner he is gone the better.
America needs a President that is an American. Like Truman and Reagan. One a Democrat and one a Republican. They looked out for the best interest of the United States.
44. Ed Nelson | 05.10.09
Dick Cheney is a patriot and a REAL American. The Bush Administration did what they had to do to keep us safe and succeeded. Obama is compromising our national security by sucking up to tyrants. In fact they laugh at him.
45. Deva | 05.10.09
I saw the interview and it was terrific. If the question asked: “Cheney vs. Biden?” I would choose Cheney again and again and again.
46. amerrican | 05.10.09
Cheney is a traitor. Had his own soldiers killed so could rob the US treasury. Traitor!
47. Mr. White of No. Nevada | 05.10.09
I believe that Dick Cheney is an honorable American, He understands and values what this country stands for and would not sacrafice it like our current administration has. I believe he is right, Powell is NO Republican, he is a “Rhino” or “Wolf in Sheeps Clothing”. He does not Choose country over all, he does not choose party over all, he chose race over all and for that he is a disgrace to the Idealism of Republicanism. Rush is one of the only semi inteligent people left in Media, the ones on CNN of MSNBC or and the big 3 are to stuck in the ways of Broadcasting for History and Change, they dont know what Bad things this so called “Change” can do to this country. I just feel for my kids and their kids that are going to have to pay for this Administrations mistakes.
48. Alaric | 05.10.09
Former VP Dick Cheney answered the questions that were asked of him. His answers were not attacks on individuals (as so clearly and repeatedly demonstrated by the main stream media and uniformed individuals), but his observations about what initiatives and choices the GOP needs to undertake to make that political party more viable in elections. In context of the story he responded succinctly and clearly…possibly to the chagrin of others.
49. Vinny | 05.10.09
What we are witnessing now is that us lazy liberals have finally woken up to the realities of politics. We were ok with either party because the Government seemed to be running pretty smoothly no matter who was in office. Then the Cheney/Bush years hit all of us. Well, say goodbye to Republican rule for a long time. Most of us are not going to group into a small killing machine and be happy with it. Conservative? Right. Neo-Con is more the description. Later.
50. Mary | 05.10.09
It is no wonder that Bush picked Cheney as his VP. He is just as crazy as Bush. And you all are right, Why are they still in the news. We didn’t want to hear what they had to say when they were in office, much less now that they are gone. They are Radicals,just like the terrorists that we are trying to get rid of!!
51. Steve | 05.10.09
Cal Godot - the tradition was broken by Obama and this admin and has not stopped. They are relentless and hateful. A leader does not point fingers and blame everyone else. Therefore, we have no leadership. The GOP is responding the same way. They are all shameful and pit all of us (presumed) dumbies against each other under the guise of smoke and mirrors.
What we need is a good mix of, and/or the best of both parties. 75-80% of the combined population of poloticians have the same ideas and interest. It’s the other 20-25% that are extreme either way. The left uses the media and actors (total non-sense), the right uses religion (total non-sense). This is the state of our country - not too bad and not too good. The rest of us need to recover some good old common sense.
Both Parties are pure polotics…..
52. Paul | 05.10.09
Liberal Blogers, leave already people that sit on the fence waiting to jump on the side when something good happens is not a friend. Didn’t your mother teach you that. Liberal are so weak spine I wish the taliban would come here and use you for a human shield. The next election I hope political correctness goes out the window and liberals get slapped in the back of the head like they deserve. Whining losers, greatest generation followed by a bunch of pathetic weirdos.
53. Matt | 05.10.09
As leaders of the country, you do things that the American people may not agree with, which in time is better all together. Of course there are exceptions, but every Administration has done things people dont agree with. Their hope is to protect/defend the country and establish a better wellbeing for society. After all, that is te job description. It’s no different with the Bush Admin. They did things that they believe will better the country. Obama is doing the same now. I think Cheney is right- that the party must reestablish it’s conservative base. The VP isn’t new to Washington. He knows what he is talking about- he’s worked there Since the Administration of Richard Nixon, where he worked in the White House. He has been through so many changes, and he, quite frankly, knows the cycle America goes through. At some point one party angers America. The next election the oposing party is elected, and vice-versa. When Obama is finished, and the American people realize (once again) that the Republicans are better in office, it’s conservative principles will also be elected. Why force yourself to become moderate, when you really believe in conservatism. If the American people want you in office you will be elected.
54. Ron Brown | 05.10.09
I agree these guy’s make us no better than China, Cuba and other nation that believe that they can not survive without stooping the lowest level of human cruelity and inhumanity. We are suppose to be a nation of laws a nation that values human life and dignity. Unfortnatly at the end of the day
the “gop” (no longer grand enought to warrant caps)wants us to toss all are values.If they are correct we’ve already loss
55. William | 05.10.09
All the social agenda liberals here can do is hate and ignore the important facts of Americans gradually loosing constitutional freedoms. I think most here have never “had it” with true democracy. Many changes now are mandated rather than letting the people vote.
56. gc | 05.10.09
To give voice to a this man who has shown disdain for American values is a kick in the face for our nation. His influence ranges from lying to us (remember the letter to Cliton saying we attack Iraq ) therefore making war predetermined once he joined the Whitehouse. Secondly, having no shame in awarding a no bid contract to Haliburton in a Democracy where the Republican principles for competitive business environment is healthy, and then preaching about right and wrong to the masses. Thirdly, a man who took 5 deferments during the Vietnam war, wanted to send others to war so badly. He has and always will take care of his self interests first. I was a strong believer of our Republican principles, but now feel the party has lost its core values and would make it very difficult for me to support them in the future.
57. Angel | 05.10.09
You guys are unfair to Limbaugh and Cheney. Give the guys a break. I mean their level of intelligence is so far behind that they should only be compared to Bo, not to say that Bo will not out smart them, LMAOROF
58. ApostasyUSA | 05.10.09
Republicans have been torture for our country.
Chenney is a strait-up chicken hawk, period. He deserves some spit in his eye before being aloud to spout his anti-American hatred. Powell is a decorated veteran, a general, and one time Secretary of State. What credibility does Chenney have over Powell? NONE! What did Chenney do but get people killed for Halliburton profits?
This is just the typical right-wing obfuscation…..but at least the toe tappers are sticking to the same old predictable game plan……
The ever insulting influence of the superficial viewpoints of the military-industrial complex is so striking. Trying ever so desperately and endlessly to control the opinions of the people and those in power, so that we too will be Americans that are stupid enough to shoot first and not ask questions at all, accept those questions with answers we hope to hear gurgled through the voice box of some water suffocating prisoner.
I suppose Republicans are proud of us torturing people?
Did we Americans torture people looking for a justification to invade Iraq?
Now 4100+ US service men and women are dead and countless Iraqi civilians because Bush Inc. needed to get some oil and give Halliburton something to do. I can’t believe that some Americans are OK with that. Talk about spending….how about a trillion+ tax dollars down the drain for some failed corporate hacks. Republicans have become Marxists, in the sense that they support propping up our economy with constant defense spending.
What does the Republican Party stand for, aside from giving desperate disparaging earfuls to the American electorate through fear mongering and tragedian rhetoric?
The Blue Sky Tribe has not left the building……but they do want you to hate somebody.
59. Dorothy Hackney | 05.10.09
I have been a republican all my voting life…UNTIL NOW ! ! I changed my “Party” because of this last administration. Like Colin Powell, I vote for the MAN, not just the party. Thank God that most people did that this last election. “Thank You, God.” I consider our last administration, (and I voted for them,) criminals…and they have brought nothing but heart ache, and shame to the American People. Limbaugh is a disgrace to the American People; his ego and hatred are tocic.
61. Rich | 05.10.09
Why is this such an issue? Is it wrong to have conservative opinions? Is it wrong to disagree with Obama? Last I checked, Obama received 69 million, 54%, of the 128 million that voted.
62. woodmanthered | 05.10.09
I think he makes perfect sense. I guess you people forgot your history. Colin is no more a hero than I am. You Bush Bashers are all the same. In about four years you will most likely see a republican in the WH. You don’t even have to look far back to see. Every time a democrat gets into office a republican replaces him in four to eight years.
63. David Hayes | 05.10.09
Am I the only person who believes Cheney is an American patriot, and did his job? How could he have know about 911 etc.. loyalty to party and country are important. Mr.
Powell should have voted for Obama if he felt he was the best candidate, and then kept his mouth shut. To announce an endorsement shows where he really stands. I’ve always felt his belonging to the republican party was to enhance his own political and military career.
65. Glen | 05.10.09
I find the rules and moderation of this forum very interesting. Personal attacks on a leader like Cheney are welcome. It’s OK to call a man who has spent most of his life serving our country… a liar, or even a traitor. But if I suggest, not a specific commenter published here, but commenters in general, so far, seem to lack education and/or are of questionable intellegence, that suggestion will not be published.
Makes me wonder if CSM or certain employees have their own biased agenda.
66. peter | 05.10.09
dick cheney needs a vacation. i think we just gave him one when we voted in november. if he insists on offering his less than welcome opinions we will have good reason to put him on trial and let him spend his retirement years behind bars.
67. Rick Eising | 05.10.09
Have to say I agree with Mr. Cheney. Powell turned his back on the party.
68. Marcos El Malo | 05.10.09
Is anyone surprised that a multi-millionaire chicken hawk draft dodger would express his preference for another multi-millionaire chicken hawk draft dodger over a dedicated and decorated war hero? Is anyone surprised by the very secretive Cheney’s sudden talkativeness now that his *** is on the line?
I finally and recently left the Republican Party because of its general pro-torture stance. But for years I have been very unhappy and stayed only because I thought I could make a difference and counterbalance the crazies with a little sanity. Today, I think it’s very clear that the inmates are running the GOP asylum, and sane moderates AND conservatives are leaving the party in droves. All that seems to be left are the mentally ill, and those ambitious and cynical enough to manipulate the mentally ill for wealth and power.
70. waner | 05.10.09
It’s important to us for Cheney to continue to be in front of the public as it allows us to be regularly reminded how insane he really is. Let him continue to say stupid things so we don’t forget the trouble he created for this country.
71. Jerry Ulibarri | 05.10.09
I was watching Face the Nation this morning. Forcing myself, actually, because Cheney is such a broken record. The fool doesn’t realize that he is hated by most Americans. His response to Scheiffer’s thanks for appearing was to say “It’s good to know you’re loved”. He doesn’t realize he is being questioned in preparation for the big court case. Schieffer pointedly frames his questions so the answers are irrefutable. When Cheney made the monumental blunder of choosing Limbaugh over Powell, Sheiffer repeated the question. When he got the confirmation that Cheney meant what he said, Sheiffer said “Mr. Cheney, we asked you here in the hope of making a little bit of news. I think we just did that”.
I laughed TRULY out loud, and said out loud, to myself and my empty house, “What an IDIOT!”
72. Cafeaulaitsil | 05.10.09
I am not at all surprised about a draft dodger like Cheney, who did everything he could to NOT serve his country. Limbaugh just runs his piehole about racist and fear remarks.
Cheney, nor Limbaugh, have the right to tell GENERAL POWELL what to do. If the Repubs don’t want Powell, I am sure the Dems will take him.
Cheney and Limbaugh are showing their racist side is all. Cheney even sat in a wheelchair to NOT stand for a Black President being inaugarated.
73. Sue | 05.10.09
Rush Limbaugh is a bombastic, obnoxious radio talk show host and (former?) oxycontin addict. That is what Cheney thinks is good leadership material — which is not surprising. Comparing Limbaugh to Colin Powell is — there is no comparing. Powell is a thoughtful, real person. I am so glad Cheney is out of office. Things were so bad for so long and now he is gone. Doesn’t he realize that he was largely responsible for the economic collapse of the nation?
74. John Roush | 05.10.09
Dick Cheney (an admitted fan of Rush Limbaugh) is a
is an arrogant-dulusional disgrace to the American
political system. He served his time, did his damage
and now needs to “Shut Up”. However…men like Cheney
make more money after their terms than during their
terms. We can expect more verbal diarrhea from this
deceptive man in the coming days.
75. Glen | 05.10.09
Basically, we have Colin Powell commenting on what would best serve the GOP after endorsing a democrat. With all due respect to Mr. Powell’s brilliant military career… when presented the possibility of a political career, he walked away.
Love or hate for Rush Limbaugh set aside, Colin Powell is no longer a credible voice in politics. Certainly NOT the GOP. I agree with Cheney!
“Land of the Lost” is a documentary about Powell’s political affiliation.
76. Texan | 05.10.09
Good news–The VP agrees with a multiple married, Oft drug addicted radio commentator that the Republican party should follow his moral leadership—we will win big with that!!
I think the Democrats are paying him to keep talking
77. eric | 05.10.09
Cheney betrayed this country, its citizens and the U.S. Constitution. Why is he getting any airtime whatsoever, pray?
He and Limbaugh deserve each other.
78. Dan | 05.10.09
Let’s boil down our former V.P.’s response: He basically stated that a three (3) time divorced, pill popping, ex-con, who happens to talk into a radio can, fit his definition of a good republican, as compared to a decorated military officer who served his country for decades.
Well, as a Reagan Democrat who is prolife, never been divorced, and wishes we had more Colin Powell’s in government now understands why the Republican Party is in such trouble.
What has happen to the Republican Party’s values and value system required to identifying and fill leadership positions?
80. Darth Fan | 05.10.09
Cheney is great…he actually believes in what he does and sticks with his principles. If his boss, GW, would have been a real conservative we would not have had to deal with the coming spending abomination ahead. GW let us down on immigration, spending and meddling in foreign affairs that had nothing to do with our safety (Iraq). Cheney was at fault with reference to the latter as well.
The Republicans are dead because the sane wing of the party is disenchanted! We fiscal conservatives have been abandoned for some weird religious conservatism that embraces creationism as science for goodness sakes! Let’s cut that sore from the party so we can welcome others like me that have chosen the Dems instead of the Kooks. To me, those choices are both very bad.
81. Jo | 05.10.09
Dick Cheney is a great man and was a great vice president. If the republicans would just start acting like republicans, we wouldn’t be in the situation we’re in. Obama is soft, and so are the idiots who vote with their hearts and not their brains.
82. Sean | 05.10.09
Why wasn’t Cheney this vocal when he was in office? I used to think that only his policies were crazy, turns out that the man is a nutjob.
83. Dave | 05.10.09
If left to choose between that draft dodging, Halliburton-grafting, Iraq War fear-mongering torturer Dick Cheney, and an intelligent, honorable, top military leader with a conscience like Colin Powell, I could choose in a nanosecond.
84. Jerry | 05.10.09
I am officially done with the Republican party. They gone too far to the right and they don’t offer Obama alternatives besides talking points. Any republicans that agree with Obama on one thing gets bashed by radio hosts/fox news.
I will be a independent democrat and I will put American above party lines. I encourage any Republicans to do the same. Its what best for our Country.
86. Eric in VT | 05.10.09
Dick Cheney is so out of touch with reality it’s almost laughable!!! Saying he’d back the Demigod Limbaugh over someone like Colin Powell who actually has experience as a leader and a politician is nothing but shear lunacy!!! Websters defines a politician as: a person experienced in the art or science of government ; especially : one actively engaged in conducting the business of a government. Limbaugh has NO experience in this arena-he talks a good game but never has he tested any of his theories.
87. HoboClown | 05.10.09
Its amazing Cheney is a Fascist with a Nazi propaganda machine padded by the integrity of the tobacco companies.
88. Chris Fowler | 05.10.09
Cheney backs Limbaugh over Powell because he thinks he can manipulate him easier for his own political subterfuge… through his underground political and multinational connections. Cheney manipulated Bush through eight years of disaster. Limbaugh is putty when his ego is stared at crosseyed. Powell has demonstrated that he can stand on his principles.
90. fairplay | 05.10.09
Any democracy needs an opposition but if Cheney or Limbaugh is representative of the type America should have tch tch.
91. Sergio | 05.10.09
Willem - “He should be awnsering questions about: torture”
Waterboarding is not torture. It was used only to 3 terrorists to get information and to save thousands American lives.
Burning by alive IS THE TORTURE. Obama burned alive thousands women and children in Pakistan and Afghan during bombing.
Only on the last week Omaba bombed two villages -
“Afghans blamed the deaths on U.S. bombing raids. In the capital of Farah province, where the fighting took place, some 150 stone-throwing protesters chanted “Death to America” and clashed with police… Abdul Basir Khan, a member of Farah’s provincial council said he collected names of 147 dead — 55 at one site and 92 at another… in the villages of Ganjabad and Gerani in the western Farah province… Villagers said they gathered children, women and elderly men in several compounds near the village of Gerani to keep
them away from the fighting, but that the compounds were hit by airstrikes.”
92. Pagan Temple | 05.10.09
Good for Cheney. It’s about time a Republican of national stature stood up to the likes of RINOs like Powell and the others of his ilk. If Republicans want to compete with the Democrats, they can’t do it by being progressives. Given a choice between a progressive or even a moderate Republican and a moderate or progressive Democrat, voters will choose the Democrat every time. They proved that in this election when they voted against John “open borders and cap-and-trade to combat Global Warming” McCain.
93. Gomes | 05.10.09
Cheney had 8 years (8 YEARS!!!) to pretend he cared about America.. He FAILED.
too little, too late. go away old man
94. Tom | 05.10.09
I read these comments and wonder if these folks were actually awake the last eight years. Most Republicans, of the conservative ilk, would support Limbaugh over Powell any day. We need conservative, Christian values to get this country back on the right track.
95. Ken | 05.10.09
In a nutshell we have here a guy who helped orchestrate the start of an illegal war and no bid contracts worth billions to his company, disgraced the USA by condoning torture, promoting another guy who has publicly stated he hopes the present administration will fail to get our country out the the mess the past administration has created. The Republican Party: The ignorant, yet patriotic, led by evil greedy traitors.
96. Rob Brooks | 05.10.09
Cheney is a sad, pathetic old guy. His attitude and viewpoints reflect the way he feels about himself. Angry. He’s upset about many decisions that he has made in his life but rather than face it, he’s just angry. He reminds me of how my daughter (and children in general) acted when she was about 3. Fortunately, since then, I’ve taught her how to deal with feelings of inadequacy and try to make things better. He never learned that I guess … Now Rush Limbaugh … lol .. this guy has so many emotional and psychological issues that I wouldn’t know where to start …
97. reggiepv | 05.10.09
I think Limbaugh and Cheney are more accurate spokesmen for the Republican party, and Cheney is correct, Powell is more similar to the Democrats. I think Powell unfortunately got caught up in the military mindset of being Republican and learned to late that they are not what he thought they were.
98. bmiller | 05.10.09
Barack Obama is president because the election is the electoral equivalent to voting on American Idol. It’s a popularity contest. I’m not a fan of George Bush either.
Clearly, our best and brightest are not elected to public office. It’s really disappointing!!!
99. Joe from UT | 05.10.09
You wanna see who is behind 9/11? Look no more it’s this man, Dick Cheney.
100. Joshua | 05.10.09
The Republics have become a rigid and stubborn party replacing pragmatism with demagoguery which stresses a false dichonomy (it’s either our way or no way). They are definately becoming America’s version of the Taliban.
101. obetwo | 05.10.09
Well I totally agree with Cheney.
If Republicans are going to be in the minority, I’d rather it be a a group that supports smaller government, less taxes,less debt and more freedom then the socialists that populate this blog.
102. mcr | 05.10.09
“I’ve always felt his belonging to the republican party was to enhance his own political and military career.”
It’s great that YOU feel this, but you know a lot more people are LEAVING the repubs now than coming into it. maybe you and cheney should examine that.
104. SuperDuperUSA1USA1Patriot | 05.10.09
As everyone knows, Dick Cheney is a highly decorated war veteran. He served his country with great distinction on hunting trips.
106. Ed Nelson | 05.10.09
“Then the Cheney/Bush years hit all of us. Well, say goodbye to Republican rule for a long time. ”
Republicans govern, Democrats rule, as we’re finding out every day.
107. Scorpio69er | 05.10.09
@ #94. James | 05.10.09
re: “Why are so many in the left so filled with hate?”
“My only regret with Timothy McVeigh is he did not go to the New York Times Building.”
-Ann Coulter, August 26, 2002
108. j | 05.10.09
I just think it’s ironic that if these hardline conservatives (Cheney and Limbaugh among others) were born in a ‘third world’ country they would be the ones running a group like the Taliban. Their entire ‘power base’ relies on lies, fear, and manipulation of religion and the minority of over-opinionated fanatical people that buy into it. It’s the same strategy that hardline conservative Islamic groups use to gain power in less fortunate mostly peaceful muslim areas of the world.
This type of ‘leadership’ is just wrong and never amounts to anything but suffering.
109. Philip Avon St. Cyr | 05.10.09
Aaaarrrggghhh! I am so SICK of reading posts that seem to think the penal system in this country can’t handle a few minor underlings in a terrorist network. NIMBY my butt. It’s like some folks divorce their common sense just because it was the subject of today’s alarmist sermon.
Serial killers?
We have prisons for that.
Mass murderers?
We have prisons for that.
Terrorists?
Yes, Virginia, we have prisons–right here in the USofA–for that, too!!!
110. Sixty-years of voting | 05.10.09
Dick Cheney is a living anachronism.
Rush Limbaugh is an entertainer whose routine is based solely on hate-mongering.
Colin Powell is a man for all seasons.
111. Adam K. | 05.10.09
choose your side:
Democrat - abort babies
Republican - execute murderers
Democrat - take away your 2nd amendment right(guns)
Republican - protect your family
Democrat - government spends your money
Republican - you spend your money
Democrat - freedom is do what ever you want but not if your republican
Republican - freedom is control your own life not someone else’s
Democrat - government knows all
Republican - governments knows nothing
The majority of voters don’t even know what they a voting for.
112. Gary | 05.10.09
Everyone knows that Powell endorsed Obama based on race and that Powell was a left leaning Republican at best. Frankly, I am glad that many of these “so-called” Republicans are finally showing their true colors.
Yeah, I was ticked off at GWB … but not because he was too conservative but because he acted just like a liberal Democrat.
The country did not “overwhelmingly” elect Obama … The only choice we had was Obama and Obama-lite (McCain).
Only 100 and some odd days into his Presidency and already Obama is the WORST President in the history of the US. Such a disgrace to what made this country great!
113. David A.Y. | 05.10.09
Cheney’s words of wisdom? That’s why the country is in the state that it’s in. He was running it, not Bush
114. Anthony FL | 05.10.09
Well why should we choose a decorated war hero who has repeatedly put his life on the line for his country over a School Drop out drug addict?
You go Dick!!(literally)
116. Steve | 05.10.09
I believe that Dick Cheney, for all of the criticism he has received, will rarely be known as the man he truly is. He and his wife, Lynn, are both highly intelligent and have proven themselves very capable leaders in politics and in education. The “Religious Right” are not the quacks portrayed by the pop-culture press. We are principled, and are loyal to Constitutional government. While we have made mistakes, two that have not been made are (1) Preventing further terrorist attacks (by holding with severe interrogation tactics) the ENEMIES of our Constitutional Government; and (2)Attacking Iraq as a result of their blatant disregard for U.N. sanctions and international recognition of the existence of weapons of mass destruction. I still believe that the evidence is overwhelming, considering that all major powers in the region as well as our own intelligence indicated at the time the presence of WMD’s. Where were they spirited off to? Perhaps Syria or some other surrounding allies of Saddam Hussein.
117. plaza04433 | 05.10.09
Now I know why the die-hard, dead end supporters of the modern Republican neocon cabal are called “the base.”
They are pretty “base”!!!!!!
118. Dave | 05.10.09
So, the battle for the soul of the Republican party is joined. I have so much respect for Colin Powell and so little for Cheney [much less for Limbaugh] that for me this is a no-brainer. Follow Cheney & Limbaugh into oblivion, or become a party of the 21st century.
119. peteman | 05.10.09
EXTRA EXTRA!!! One Republican jerk backs another Republican jerk over Colin Powell… what a big surprise!
120. peteman | 05.10.09
Republicans love morons like you Adam K. because you are so easy to manipulate.
123. ‘Mela | 05.10.09
Rush Limbaugh is the obvious choice, and for reasons Mr. Cheney gave.
It’s a trick question, right?
The “new look” at the GOP isn’t new at all, and it doesn’t pander to Independents.
Obama did not win overwhelmingly, 50+ million people voted against.
As for why Mr. Cheney will not go away, the same reason Bill Clinton won’t,
they are part of American history.
The left forgets so easily, like a spoiled, assuming child, that for the last 8 years, America had no
attacks from terrorists.
As opposed to now, where the very Constitution is being ripped apart and sewn back together again,
and a pop culture President goes around making nice, like a sixteen year old girl, who thinks a smile is all you need to get by.
I liked it back when the President wasn’t the first thing you saw/heard about 24/7…
Like today, when that’s all that you ever see, and no real information is disclosed, except making it abundantly clear there is no journalism anymore, just cheerleaders.
I once though Mr. Powell a respectable guy, and a GOP member.
He endorsed a man who stands for the antithesis of what a Conservative is- for whatever reason.
Why doesn’t he join Arlen Spector in the great migration, and leave the true Conservatives to the job of cleaning up the mess that “the kids” are leaving behind…
124. Woody Porter | 05.10.09
Republican leaders are involved in a “listening tour’ to find out what’s needed to “rebrand” their party. They could save themselves a lot a time — and money! — by hiring a bright young fellow or gal to do an in-depth analysis of this “comments” section.
It’s all here…crazies from the right and left — one fellow even said “Colin Powell is no more a war hero than I am (wow! whatta knockout war record THAT guy’s gotta have!!) — and all kinds of folks from in between.
If the GOP elders are serious, they’d better instruct their youngster to pay very close attention to the folks who wrote, in essence, “50 years a Republican and never again!” A functioning two-party system is important. Sadly, the GOP is in danger of becoming not the “party of good government,” but an irrelevant band of creationists, global-warming deniers, free-market absolutists and international-conspiracy buffs.
125. nobody | 05.10.09
“Everyone knows that Powell endorsed Obama based on race and that Powell was a left leaning Republican at best.”
A lot of generals endorsed obama, but powells was racially motivated because of race because he’s black? So because Rush made this distinction, any white general that endorsed bush was because he was white then? Please, it wasn’t racial issue until that hypocritical hateful man made it one.
Republicans are why people think christians are barbaric, hypocritical bigots
127. Kathryn | 05.10.09
Dick Cheney should retire. I realize he’s out there trying to talk up his legacy (such as it is) and also to save his behind (over the torture business), but really!!!
Choosing Rush Limbaugh over Colin Powell? That’s a no brainer for anyone who has a brain. Colin Powell has served our this country for years while all Rush does is keep stirring up the pot in order to justify the millions he earns on air. The only people who think Powell supported Obama because he’s black are racists (like Limbaugh) ….pure and simple. Powell saw that McCain would carry on the Bush administration’s agenda, and he didn’t like it. I think Republicans should think long and hard about continuing to turn against those people who don’t agree with them. Exclusionism is turning both moderate and independent voters off.
128. Paul Stewart | 05.10.09
39. Drew | 05.10.09
When are all the liberal Democrats realize Obama only won because CONSERVATIVES STAYED HOME?
—————————–
Drew, please, they did not stay home, they switched parties, went independent and just plain voted for Obama. You need to get out of the Rabbit Hole. You and Cheney and everyone else. You all really are confused.
129. Willy | 05.10.09
Quote: “If Powell is a Dem for supporting Obama, does that mean Arlen Specter is a Republican for supporting Coleman in Minnesota?”
No, Ben, it only means that Arlen Specter is a political opportunist. He changes directions whenever he thinks it will pay off. In 1965, Specter ran for District Attorney, on the Republican ticket as a registered Democrat. He handily beat incumbent Jim Crumlish, and subsequently changed his registration to Republican.
When it appears that he will not win the nomination for the senate under the Republican ticket he again changes to the Democratic ticket. Even the democrats see his true colors and made a sub-committee for him to head denying him the leadership of the committee that he headed. News flash, he will not win the next nomination for senate under either party.
He is worse than Cheney ever though about being. At least Cheney sticks to his beliefs.
130. NinaK | 05.10.09
Cheney needs to zip up his mouth; it was HIS policies and principles, along with Rumsfeldt’s, that brought us to the state in which our nation is now. Yes, GW was the President; however he listened to these two “political experts” which not only brought our country down but GW’s administration as well. Cheney had a whole eight years in which to do good for America; he did NOT! Now he is spouting more of his venom and so called “principles”. Cheney needs to stop criticizing our President who is working very hard to get us out of the terrible messes Cheney and cohorts put this country into. Cheney must love the limelight, he refuses to leave it! Mr. Cheney, your time has come and gone and you have NOT left a good impression; time for you to go home and enjoy your retirement; if you cannot, perhaps you should be tried for your criminal behavior!
132. hoosiercare | 05.10.09
You people who continue to bash Bush…do you have any idea of what kind creature you elected to replace him? The dictator can not even look straight in to the camera. Watch his next so-called press conference. He wags his head left to right, reading the teleprompter. What a joke. Trillions of $ in debt foreign policy collapse, and the government takeover of private corporations.
And you think Republicans should be more like Democrats? That is the real reason the party is in trouble - straying from conservative principles. Bush was wrong to do so, any future Rep. candidate would also be wrong.
133. rick g | 05.10.09
Colin Powell is a disgrace. Of course Dick Cheney picks a Republican over an Obama supporter. Duh. Anyone with any sense at all does too.
134. David Todd Kessler | 05.10.09
Let’s see. Limbaugh never said not to listen to Powell. However, Powell tried to tell some of us not to listen to Limbaugh. I think Limbaugh is exactly right on when he says Christians aren’t going away but will only vote for truly conservative leadership such as Palin. Palin/Limbaugh ‘012. I’m starting to like Cheney, but I think he’s a bit liberal sticking up for free speech and such and all the rioting going on on Limbaugh’s show (Well, it is a riot, because he’s always right- maybe Limbaugh missed his calling and is actually a modern day profit like Daniel, you know- one of those historic figures). Thanks Limbaugh. Thanks Cheney, for sticking up for my favorite radio host. If anyone in media is a shame it’s that sick dog Cooper and CNN. Hey, what ever happened to SNC (Satellite News Channel)- you know, the one that didn’t wallow in it’s own muck like CNN does. SNC just reported the day’s news like the weather channel reports weather.
135. Bryan | 05.10.09
And there’s the problem with the GOP, rebuffing a man like powell to embrace a comedian and entertainer/liar…
136. Christian Seaborn | 05.10.09
The precise reason why that maybe the Republicans should consider taking a lesson from the Democrats is this: THE DEMOCRATS HAVE WON (big time) THE LAST TWO ELECTIONS…fundamentally leaving the Republicans out of power.
In Pennsylvania alone 200,000 Republican voters switched to the Democratic party in the last election. But the trouble is that die-hard (and they are dying hard), conservative Republicans (like Cheney and Limbaugh and a few of the people commenting here) just do not get it: by and large the country, middle-of-the-road Americans, no longer want (or need) the message conservative Republicans have been ramming down our throats.
I am sure that the race factor probably played a role in Colin Powell’s endorsement of President Obama. So what???
The real issue with this story on Cheney’s comment is showing how utterly stupid our former VP is saying that he would rather trust a brainless, moron, radio talk show host whom has never been elected to office (i.e., Rush Limbaugh) over a decorated military man and a former Secretary of State…under a Republican President, no less.
138. Tim | 05.10.09
To paraphrase what was once said about another Dick (aka Richard Nixon), “How can you tell when Dick Cheney is lying?” “His lips are moving.”
139. rg the lg | 05.10.09
Cheney is venal. OK. But does it not seem that O’Bushma is basically toeing the BUSH-CHENEY line?
The problem, dear ones, is that ever since the revolution (1763-1783) we have been a imperialist, racist, and greedy bunch of pigs.
Whether it is Bush or some half-white like Obama or Powell (or even Condi Rice) makes little difference. Never has, never will.
We have wanted the empire … now we have it … and the only thing that changes is the man in the emperor’s new clothes. Th imperium continues with an imperial presidency that only appears democratic. Face it, we are an oligarchy and we either like the tone … or we don’t … but are powerless to do anything about it.
So, to both sides in this argument … so what?
140. lonecrone | 05.10.09
I get cold chills thinking that if anything had happened to Bush 43, this horrible man would have been president. We were a heartbeat away from real disaster.
141. RGR | 05.10.09
Cheney’s high profile campaign to defend the efficacy of “enhanced interrogation” and to shape public opinion about the Bush-Cheney legacy is so irregular–that is, it so departs from the norms of ex-presidential/vp decorum–that I have to wonder if he is not seriously concerned about an indictment.
143. Daniel | 05.10.09
We live under the republican form of democracy for good reason: it protects us from ourselves. Republicanism does not espouse “majority rule”, it specifically ensures minorities do not get mowed over by a majority (sometimes better than others, but over time our system finds its balance). 113 of you posted before I came across this running diatribe. Good for all of you. Our system is working. All of you are having your say, and each of your voices is being heard. Cheney is certainly entitled to spin is role in history any way he chooses. We have the right to agree or disagree without repercussion. The system is working exactly as envisioned by our forefathers. Everyone of us buys into one political view or another…cool by me. It doesn’t bother me one little bit if you are far right, a moderate, or a full blown communist. Good for each and everyone of you. Our system gives you the right to work for your causes within our laws. If enough of us don’t like a law, the system allows us to change our direction. Still seems good to me. What the system doesn’t respond very well to is angry self interest. Too many of us don’t do “our own homework.” Read! Educate yourselves. Take time to listen to “all” sides of an issue. Enough of us are out of work; we certainly have the time.
What bully’s and hot-heads seem to fully misunderstand is in our system their perceived power is effectively checked. Stomping up and down, crying doom and gloom, claiming this or that philosophy, spouting their position is that of the “majority”, or whatever tact taken to justify their positions more often than not only strengthen their opposition. We all have the right to resist having non-sense shoved down our throats. That is a good thing.
Let Dick and Rush have their say. Suggesting they shouldn’t have the right only strengthens their vitriolic nonsense in their supporters minds. But remember in the end their positions speak for themselves. I didn’t count, but it seems more of you disagree with them than agree. That seems telling particularly since the Christian Science Monitor tends to be a conservative publication. Regardless of my views, based on the comments here it seems the Republican Party is doing battle with itself. Republican negativity, unwillingness to politic vs. their proclivity to dictate is proving a true cancer for them. Some cancers have a fairly high “cure rate”, others are almost always fatal. It is going to be interesting to see which school of Republican thought prevails: those who want to cut off the head to save the heart, or those who believe cutting out the heart is the best way to save the head?
144. Ed | 05.10.09
Way to go Cheney. Listen to all the whiney libs moaning like the little children. You should all get on your knees (not an unfamiliar position for many of you) and thank **** and George every night that they had the balls to defend this country. Republicans will be back in power when the disasterous policies of BHO take their toll on the economy.
145. Kevin Williamson | 05.10.09
Go Dick Go!!! At this rate, the Republican Party will be as dead as the Whigs by 2020! Keep spouting that trash and let America know what a typical Republican you are. I love having a clown with a 16% approval rating out there speaking for the G.O.P. I see at least 65 seats in the Senate for the Dems in 2012.
146. Steven | 05.10.09
@ Gary #112:
“Only 100 and some odd days into his Presidency and already Obama is the WORST President in the history of the US.”
Seriously, what planet do you live on? What level of narcotics allows you to maintain this type of delusion? How pathetically non-functional are your reasoning abilities?
STOP HUFFING GLUE!
147. JD L | 05.10.09
And why does anyone care what Cheney thinks. He and Busch were complete failures.
148. Andrew Mazz | 05.10.09
Friends in Special Forces have told me that they will do and I quote “anything to extract vital information from any threat”. To state that our policy is to not torture is really kind of funny. I can assure you we threaten children, disease, beatings, and a variety of other very ugly methods, all of which I support in protecting our nation. I do not care what our perception is around the world. We lead, they follow. We tried the pacifist approach under Carter and it failed. Clinton gutted the intelligence budget while Americans were killed all over the world and 911 was an exclamation point on another brutal failure by democrats. Bush/Cheney had many failures; dealing with the terrorists was not one of them.
149. Ray Eston Smith Jr | 05.10.09
In comment #65, Glen criticized the “intellegence” of Cheney critics. I don’t normally criticize people for spelling errors, put Glen should really move out of his glass house.
150. A. Conservative | 05.10.09
Conservatives do not have a political party. We are not currently represented by anyone.
151. wot90s | 05.10.09
Now that is a pair. Cheney and Rush..
What is this world coming to??
Next thing you know they will be running for President in 2012.
Both are a but of nut cases. Cheney needs to be on Trial for war crimes, rush needs to be in rehab. He’s nothing but a drug addict.
with a mouth that gives radio a bad name.
I dont listen to him because the man is a lunatic.
152. wayne | 05.10.09
Our country was founded on In God We Trust.If we as individuals cannot put a side our petty differences and turn back to God who has rules for all of us to live by. Not many if any of us agree with all of his rules. But if we cannot turn back to our creator. We will go the way of the Roman empire and the great powerful societies of the past. America wake up, for the sake of our country and our children.
153. Ray Eston Smith Jr | 05.10.09
Correction to my previous comment:
“In comment #65, Glen criticized the “intellegence” of Cheney critics. I don’t normally criticize people for spelling errors, put Glen should really move out of his glass house.”
Correction: I typed “put Glen” when I meant “but Glen.” Sorry about that “but Glen.” I’ve got a few broken windows in my own house.
154. Mark | 05.10.09
This article reaffirms my personal decision to leave this party along with millions of my fellow americans. To think I once respected Cheney. By the way, if the Powell doctrine (overwheming force, clear objective, exit strategy) was followed by Bush instead of the Cheney doctrine (polar opposite of the Powell doctrine), then Bush would have left a legacy different than being a complete idiot. It is my hope that Powell abandons this ship of fools who clearly do not deserve his company. Same goes for the two senators from my home state, Snowe and Collins.
155. EWAdams | 05.10.09
That’s fine, Gary, I hope you enjoy being part of that ever-shrinking minority that is the Republican party. Deride everyone with a viewpoint that departs from the official party line, and kick them out. They’ll be welcome in the Democratic party, which knows how to tolerate a diversity of opinions.
If political irrelevancy is what you want, well, you’ve got it.
Oh, and if you think General Powell endorsed Obama on race, you ARE deluded.
156. jmilovich | 05.10.09
Barack Obama is the President of the United States. The republican candidate lost the election. Mr. Cheney sides with an man who calls himself and “entertainer.” Why are we having this conversation?
157. Bob Bainbridge | 05.10.09
The Republican party should be proud to have an intelligent, respected and dedicated social servant with Colin Powell. Cheney’s comments are not surprising. His arrogance is unprecedented and his moral compass has been broken for over a decade.
Siding with Limbaugh is comical. Imagine these two clowns trying to work together.
Rush, could we get a photo op with you and Cheney and his daughter? What? Don’t want to talk about that?
158. J Cooke | 05.10.09
I’m tired of folks who aren’t Republicans telling Republicans what to do.
As for Powell, he left the GOP when he endorsed Obama. And since many of you commentators are not registered Republicans, your comments don’t matter.
As a true Republican, let me say that the GOP will nominate a real conservative next time (not a liberal like McCain) and he or she will win because the American people will realize that Obama’s agenda is the road to ruin.
159. Rex, CA | 05.10.09
I support Cheney all the way, Rush is the guy, he acknowledges God, while Obama has moved away from God. God moves in mysterious ways so let us see what this chapter brings us.
160. Cathy King | 05.10.09
I think all God fearing people need to be reminded that whatever party is in power, as God fearing christians we need to observe and respect the authority as Romans 13vs1-4, advises us. Do WE think we have more power than God himself? All will be judged for the choices we make and that includes governments and that time will be upon us sooner than most of us would like. The only time to make a stand is when they, the Government, conflict with God’s laws, and then it is time to make a stand for God.
161. Hawk | 05.10.09
The media need to stop airing this robot Cheney, after eight years of silences why so loud now. Dick!! go away.
162. D B Cooper | 05.10.09
“Well if I had to choose in terms of being a Republican, I’d go with Rush Limbaugh,” Cheney said.
______________________________________________
I must agree with Mr. Cheney, Mr. Limbaugh is the wave of the future as far
as the demise of the “Republicunt” party is concerned. While not all Repugs
are out to destroy the USA and all it stands for, some are just misguided
individuals that know not from wrong. I am willing to bet if R. Limbaugh is
the Repug party spokesperson a lot of Repugs will run, not walk to the
nearest exit and have nothing further to do with the Repug party.
Not all repugs are criminals that should be jailed, some are just fooled all
of the time. R Limbaugh will set them straight, either you are for us in
our efforts to destroy the American way of life or you are not Repugs and
will need to declare yourselves and depart the party. I vote for Repug of
the year, …………….. Rush Limbaugh…………
Please make him the leader of the Republicunt Party .
163. pj | 05.10.09
Let him keep digging that hole deeper and deeper. Eventually he won’t be able to get out of it and he’ll (Cheney) realize he’s dug his own grave. Same with Limbaugh. Give him enough rope and he’ll hang himself too.
165. Hooveydooer | 05.10.09
This forum is not supposed to be an open wastebasket for the collection of everyone’s emotionally charged ideas about what is right or wrong with our two party system. The point of this forum should be to focus on the characters and lives of Colin Powell and Rush Limbaugh to attempt to discern which man has those attributes of character which would be a steady, sane, and unifying presence for our country. The conservative right should be familiar with Jesus statement “that by their fruits you shall know them.” The vitriolic speech of Rush Limbaugh is a direct reflection of his flawed character, while I believe that the calm and carefully reasoned speech of Colin Powell is a direct reflection of his character. These people would lead in the same manner that you see them speak.
166. techlady44 | 05.10.09
I’ll take Cheney any day. Powell turned against the GOP by supporting Obama. If he at any time possessed any GOP characteristics, they are long gone now with his backing the most leftist candidate in history. You on the left better wake up before it’s too late–infact, it may be too late now. The main stream media is still trashing the Bush Admin and giving Obama a pass. Just the fact that Obama has put this country on the road to poverty for future generations should be enough to get libs to open their eyes. This is my country and this current administration and congress are trashing it. We need term limits for senators and representatives. I for one am tired of seeing our representatives pass without question anything this administration dreams up.
167. Ann | 05.10.09
It’s hard to believe that George Bush is actually doing what ex Presidents are supposed to do when they retire and that is KEEP QUIET. Why is the press giving Cheney the opportunity to spout his garbage? He had his 8 years. Enough already.
168. Fredrick | 05.10.09
Dick Cheney, Rush Limbaugh et al. make it easy. If Colin Powell were to move to the fore as a Republican, it might take some uncomfortable thinking to sort out which would be better for the country, Republican or Democrat. Obama v. Palin in 2012? Easy. Obama v. Powell in 2012? Hmmmmmmmm . . . tough call.
169. Aspen Kid | 05.10.09
Dick cheney is a “twit’ of the highest order! He was an habitual serial liar who trumped-up the rush to war with Iraq….when it was known Iraq had nothing to do with 9/11! Cheney needs to return to his bunker and the realization that he had a 15% job approval rating! Get this has-been off the stage!
170. Robert Castle | 05.10.09
Cheney is a danger to himself and others, conditions precedent to being placed in the least restrictive environment compatible with his safety and that of others, in this case a padded cell.
171. Tom Atkins | 05.10.09
Why did you **** out Mr. Cheney’s first name???
Hmmm, now that I think about it, it was probably the proper thing to do… appropriate.
172. James | 05.10.09
I’ve tried to read all the comments left but actually got bored. I’m so interested in politics but tired of all the same stuff. This fight between who’s right all the time is so old. Nothing ever gets done because power is passed back and forth. So who’s right?
Republicans spent money for a war on oil. Big suprise, they are mainly rich white men that own most of the nations land. Somebody said on here that there were weapons of mass distruction. What a joke…it’s funny how some guy just knows this yet we have no prof. The fact is political figures lie. How do you think they got in office in the first place.
So since Democrats are also a political party, they will lie to us as well. Are they in office to represent us or their party in the first place. The fact that dicky had this perseption against Powell is amazing. I would vote for Powell just because he is willing to stand for something he at least believes against. I’m not even close to being a Republican. The fact that are democratic system allows parties to run our country is one major flaw. DOWN WITH THE PARTIES hello the common man.
173. James | 05.10.09
Republicans spent money for a war on oil. Big suprise, they are mainly rich white men that own most of the nations land. Somebody said on here that there were weapons of mass distruction. What a joke…it’s funny how some guy just knows this yet we have no prof. The fact is political figures lie. How do you think they got in office in the first place. So since Democrats are also a political party, they will lie to us as well. Are they in office to represent us or their party in the first place. The fact that dicky had this perseption against Powell is amazing. I would vote for Powell just because he is willing to stand for something he at least believes against. I’m not even close to being a Republican. The fact that are democratic system allows parties to run our country is one major flaw. DOWN WITH THE PARTIES hello the common man.
175. Tom Atkins | 05.10.09
Can somebody tell me why Cheney is still being invited on these shows? Being no longer relevant to the debate he he ought simply go quietly into retirement—that, or until he’s called before congress to answer for his crimes.
177. Jim | 05.10.09
The only headline Cheney should be making these days is for showing up in court in Spain. Cheney = BAD Republican, Anti-Patriot. Powell = GOOD Republican. Great-Patriot.
178. Larry | 05.10.09
Cheney is mistaken if he believes that Limbaugh is interested in the future of anyone but Limbaugh. I suspect that Cheney is about the same. Anyone interested in the future of the Republican party would realize that the smaller, purer model only works up to a point. When you are reduced to a shriveled core, dominated by religious fundamentalists and people who cackle at Limbaugh’s racist, sexist, homophobic blather, you are comitting political suicide. It may have worked well in the past but changing demographics alone doom it to failure in the future.
As long as GOP candidates have to genuflect to the God. guns and gays agenda to win primaries, they will continue to lose elections. “Moderates” like Jeb Bush are slammed for saying that the party needs to listen to voters. Political and/or religious zealots like Cheney loathe the idea of straying from the dogma. Once they acknowledge that one part of their ideology is flawed, be it creationism or trickle down economics, intelligent people will begin to question the rest. That they cannot have. By demanding absolute faith, they are reduced to the absolutely faithful, and as we have seen, that is an increasingly small, embittered and isolated group.
It would be laughable if some number of them weren’t reading the Turner Diaries, hoarding guns and dreaming of a Fox News inspired revolution. Cheney is smart enough to know the dogs he’s whistling up and that alone makes him a disgrace to his former office. Some who know him say he was transformed by 9/11. I doubt that one event, no matter how traumatic can lead to such a dark place. The world is changing with or without Obama. Cheney and Limbaugh see this and they fear the loss of white, Christian, male-dominated privilege they have enjoyed. Oh well.
179. Rivk | 05.10.09
Limbaugh as the head of the Republicans? Just what they deserve. He is the reason Obama was the Democrat’s candidate after he brought the downfall of Hillary Clinton’s chances through his Chaos initiative to undermine her. Without his efforts, the outcome in November 2008 would have been Clinton or McCain, not Obama.
180. tom | 05.11.09
Missing from this article was Cheney said of the republican party “I think there is room for moderates in the Republican Party,” I wonder what constitutes a moderate in the Limbaugh party? The Republicans, in their haste to attain ideological purity, are painting themselves in an ever diminishing corner that appeals to fewer and fewer voters.
181. Bob | 05.11.09
As a Republican of long standing, I think I’m within my rights to say that the Republican party will remain incapable of winning elections irregardless of who they put up front as long as their core principles are so completely misaligned with the values of most Americans. What are those principles? Enable the massive over-enrichment of corporate leaders without requiring accountability or responsibility, pollute-pollute-pollute/deny-deny-deny, wage wars as a distraction from home-town problems, and promote “traditional family values”, an obfuscatory way of saying “barefoot and pregnant”. America is a moderate nation - we are not going to hang out on either edge of the political spectrum over the long term. Any party that forgets this is going to lose consistently. Looks like the GOP has now become the “Geriatric Outsider Party”.
182. Donovan | 05.11.09
If Republicans are fleeing the ranks of the GOP and joining the Democrats, I say “The More the Merrier.” Democrats seem to have a knack for being open-minded and listening to all rational points of view.
Also, I find it difficult to believe that Rush Limbaugh represents the Religious Right. He believes that he’s bigger than God, and most conservative Christians that I know don’t respect that:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CGBTJNkdkws
183. AdamG | 05.11.09
I think Cheney is half right actually. The key is not to move “too far to the left.” Well that’s correct, however, the flip side to that coin is not to move too far to the right either. The Republican party is much less appealing nowadays because the past eight years were spent pushing the party to the right. All the while they ignored those principles that kept them ideologically aligned with moderate Republicans. Cheney, endorsing a conservative mouth piece over a former colleague and moderate like Colin Powell shows how little he reflects on his past mistakes. Cheney seems to believe that there is one correct way to lead this country, he had his chance, and doesn’t seem to care that most people disagreed with his tactics. Powell voted for the man he thought best for the job, and that should come before party loyalty.
184. Troy Mckenzie | 05.11.09
This Country is not as “Center-Right” as most Republicans would have you believe. I have seen more critical to extreme type of actions from self-proclaimed Christian Republicans when it comes to the acknowledgment of Gays and their American citizen rights, womens right to equal pay, and minority/class rights.
BOTH parties have a tendency for extremes in either a Bigger government or Bigger Business. Republicans favoring Big Business does not serve the below average wage(less than middle class) majority in the US. Democrats will also show how extreme and ineffective programs become under Bigger Government. I believe that most government programs start off with good intentions like most small business BUT GREED and the pursuit of the all-mighty-dollar ruins both aspects of business and government.
Right now we have to deal with an expanding government BECAUSE the business that have failed and did not plan ahead to pay there dept had to reach out to an overwhelmed, small, and financially deficient government to bail them out. So our government is catching up in size to the “To big to fail” Big business in hopes of solving this crisis. Unfortunately once this situation is under presumed control….corruption will make this New Big Government almost impossible to shrink back to a fiscal responsible size.
185. Andrew | 05.11.09
Its funny that everyone hates Cheney when he is probably the reason that we have not had another terrorist attack on our mainland since the Sept. 11th falling of the towers. If you cant understand that the nessessary evil of “torture” is saving countless lives, then I would like to introduce you to about 10 million Arabs that would kill you and put it on YouTube….
186. Rescue2 | 05.11.09
The USA was attacked under the ‘watchful’ eyes of bush-cheney.
The two buffoons should be on trial for war crimes and crimes against the Constitution. The neo-con mentality is for countries like North Korea, Singapore, Zimbabwe etc. A true patriot loves what his/her country stands for.
bush and cheney were and are no patriots.
187. RIch | 05.12.09
Hello all fellow “Americans” I may not agree with the all thats being said here but I love that fact that we all have the right to speak our minds, God bless this great nation of ours! I am a Black Dem Ret.USAF man and in the past and the future will simply vote for the very best that either party has to offer our nation and I admit that I think more to the left! I do think that Bush and Cheney think that all that they have done are correct and just as do most former leaders, sadly enough the constitution was put aside more times then not and in doing so we as Americans pay for these acts for years to come! I will never defend some ones actions or ideals because they are labled a “D” or “R”, no one party makes all the right moves and we all know this to be true, but this is what we have to work with. I voted for Obama not because he’s black but because I saw a steady hand, and a man that really think, I may not believe all of his policies but i do think that he will prove to be our best chance to get back to where we belong! No heated words here, no hate for any one, just the best wish’s for all of us and prayers and love for our country and our armed forces that serve and protect us!!!
188. Erin Smith | 05.12.09
53 % is politically speaking, overwhelming. That would mean the opposition got just 47% thats a six percent difference. thats 18,000,000 more then the losers. 18 mil. is lots! 51% would be close but still an obvious majority.
189. Cynthia Gee | 05.27.09
“If you cant understand that the nessessary evil of “torture” is saving countless lives, then I would like to introduce you to about 10 million Arabs that would kill you and put it on YouTube….”
The day that we can no longer keep our country safe without resorting to the same tactics that our enemies use, I’d rather call it quits and “go down with the ship.” Once this country starts believing that torture is a “necessary evil”, we are no better than our enemies, and there is nothing left of America to save.
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Jimmy Orr has worked in politics for the majority of his professional career working for two U.S. Senators, two Governors and one President. Most recently, Orr served as White House Spokesman and Internet Director for President George W. Bush and Special Advisor to Governor Schwarzenegger for Internet Communications.
David Cook is Washington bureau chief of The Christian Science Monitor and host of the Monitor's newsmaker breakfasts. He was the Monitor's editor from 1994 to 2001. Cook is a graduate of Principia College, served in the U.S. Army, was a Bagehot Fellow at Columbia University, and is a member of the Gridiron Club, Washington's oldest journalistic organization.
1. dennis | 05.10.09
Cheney is a nut. He has no insight. He can’t change. He folded after 9-11 and compromised our most cherished principles, the ones that make us who we are. He can’t see what he’s done to the honor and light of our great nation. He aided and abetted in torture. He should be standing before a judge in an orange jumpsuit.
Mostly, I wish he would just. Go. Away. We voted overwhelmingly to GET RID OF THESE GUYS. Why won’t they go away?