When asked if Sarah Palin would accept an invitation to appear on David Letterman's program, Palin spokesperson Meg Stapleton responded by saying, ""The Palins have no intention of providing a ratings boost for David Letterman by appearing on his show. Plus, it would be wise to keep Willow away from David Letterman."
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Palin says Letterman a threat to 14-year old daughter Willow
By Jimmy Orr | 06.11.09
Going up against comedians is usually full of peril. Especially comedians who have millions of viewers and have been national TV icons since the early 1980s. Yeah, like David Letterman.
Letterman usually wins. He’s got the charisma, the humor, the microphone, and a big loyal following. Although John McCain kissed his ring last fall when he fell out of favor with the late night comic, McCain’s former sidekick is not bowing down or shying away.
Anything but. She’s taking on Letterman like she said she would do with anyone who talks negatively about her children — like a mama grizzly. And like that mama grizzly, she appears to think she can win the battle.
Willow
The latest lob between Letterman and the Palins came after the late night host’s clarification yesterday that his joke about a Palin daughter getting “knocked up” by Yankees slugger Alex Rodriguez was aimed at the governor’s 18-year-old daughter Bristol. Not 14-year-old daughter Willow.
“These are not jokes made about her 14-year-old daughter. I would never, never make jokes about raping or having sex of any description with a 14-year-old girl. … Am I guilty of poor taste? Yes. Did I suggest that it was OK for her 14-year-old daughter to be having promiscuous sex? No,” Letterman explained last night.
The problem with Letterman’s “clarification” is that his joke made mention of the Yankees game Palin attended on Sunday. She attended with her 14-year-old daughter not the 18-year-old.
And the Palins are taking his statement literally.
Threat
Do they accept his clarification? Absolutely not. When asked if the Palins would accept Letterman’s invitation to appear on his show, Palin spokesperson Meg Stapleton indicated that Letterman would be a threat to Willow.
“The Palins have no intention of providing a ratings boost for David Letterman by appearing on his show. Plus, it would be wise to keep Willow away from David Letterman,” Stapleton said.
Duo
It’s not just Palin’s spokesperson either. Yesterday, both parents ripped into Letterman.
“Acceptance of inappropriate sexual comments about an underage girl, who could be anyone’s daughter, contributes to the atrociously high rate of sexual exploitation of minors by older men who use and abuse others,” the governor said in a statement.
Todd Palin added, “Any ‘jokes’ about raping my 14-year-old are despicable. Alaskans know it, and I believe the rest of the world knows it, too.”
Apologize, Dave
Although Gallup hasn’t polled it yet, there are plenty of people coming to Palin’s aid on this one. Like the Chicago Tribune’s Steve Chapman.
“Instead of acting as though he’s the victim of someone else’s misunderstanding, as he did last night, Letterman ought to simply admit he blew it, big time, and personally apologize to the Palins and his viewers,” Chapman writes. “He also should to keep in mind that if you’re going to ridicule someone’s sex life, you might pick on someone your own size. And make very sure you have the right person.”
Upper hand
Media Critic Eric Deggans thinks Letterman made a mistake but the Palins have more to lose.
“If I were Dave, I would have apologized for not making it clear that he was referring to Bristol, who is an adult, and not Willow, who is not,” Deggans writes. “That said, I think the Palins are making the biggest mistake here; their aggressive response may play well with their hardcore fans, but adding this feud on top of open conflict with Newt Gingrich is liable to wear out their welcome with the general public quickly.”
Next
The ball is in Letterman’s court. If he backs down and apologizes the controversy will end much more quickly. After all, the Palins have shown they aren’t afraid to fight. And although Letterman’s on TV much more than Sarah Palin, she can get air time any time she wants.
Advantage? Palin.
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3. gilbert starkweather | 06.11.09
**** like this coming from his mouth (comedian?) is why he never approached the popularity of Jay Leno, he will always be a second class act. I would bet if someone said this about his family he would not laugh and find great humor in this dumb stupid statement. Palin should sue him, no telling how this will affect the 14 year old girl
4. John Lansing | 06.11.09
I dare David Lettermen to make the same comment about a 14-year-old black girl, or about the Obama family
5. Tom Miller | 06.11.09
Dave is out of touch with reality . He is no longer a comedian but a liberal hate monger from the far left. Shame on his mouth 50 years ago his mother should have washed his mouth out with soap slap his behind and sent him to bed .
7. cho | 06.11.09
Well, maybe now Dave has a taste of being taken wrong or misunderstood and not being able to “unring” that bell! People are still saying “punchlines” about Palin that have been debunked long ago. But, it’s more fun for people like Dave to pick up those easy rocks to throw. For his sake, I hope this gets cleared up and dissapears.
8. redjalapeno | 06.11.09
Letterman clearly made a mistake, but saying that the joke was about Palin’s 14 year old daughter being raped by A-rod is typical rabid, right-wing mouth breathing. Hopefully, after 2012 the Palin’s will fade back to their well deserved irrelevance and obscurity.
9. Dave | 06.11.09
Poor taste? I won’t argue that. A soon to be marginalized politician that a lot of her own party want to ignore? I won’t argue that either. Do I care? Well, obviously enough that I read this article and wrote this comment, but only in that I wonder what hole some people live in or how I can take them seriously. Or not wonder if it’s a ploy to keep their name on the national stage.
10. dave | 06.11.09
we need to stop paying attention to sarah palin and she’ll go away. it worked for my fear of sock puppets… ahhh sock puppets! darn it..
11. ron black | 06.11.09
letterman is an immature gap toothrd idiot and i hope he leaves montana immediatly, we do not think rape is acceptable here or anywhere. i encourage all to stop watching him and do something productive.
12. Kevin | 06.11.09
Letterman is not a comedian…that would require that he actually be funny. He hasn’t been funny since 1986.
Now he looks like a perverted old geezer…which is a pretty accurate description of him.
13. Joe Giarmo | 06.11.09
This comment that was made says alot about the man that said it! I like Letrerman but I would not pick on or say anything about someone elses child 14 or 18. The man needs to man up and apologize its that simple. It was not funny.
14. dorothy hackney | 06.11.09
The Palins need to be treated as if they do not exist!! I can’t think of a better way to treat them except to not even acknowledge them at all…no jokes, and no conversation about them what so ever!! “I’m sorry, I’ll never joke about you or your family again; now go away!”
They come across as crude and ignorant people; the whole family! We have enough crude, and enough ignorant, especially in politics; it is not a joking matter, and neither should any of their family be!
15. Rob | 06.11.09
The problem is Letterman is a talent and Palin is not (even though I voted for her running mate)– If Bristol became pregnant before her 18th birthday, then the joke might have been intended to illustrate the governor’s poor parenting skills and played as an illustration of the likelyhood of further teen pregnancies under Palin’s (pseudo) Christian-fudamentalist morality. Letterman should be allowed to verbally attack such sorts, just like Mark Twain– His humor deconstructs the blase fair culture bases which pruport so much, and yet come down to meaning so little. This is still America after all, and a great country’s humor should not be teleprompted, dulled, or made to apologize.
16. Al Franken | 06.11.09
The Palin’s are the best entertainment since the Clampett’s moved to Beverly Hills. Must be something in all that oil.
17. Ron Herrmann | 06.11.09
I have tried to send comments to David Letterman and the networks comment sites. Amazingly error messages come back. Mr Lettermann has reached that point in fame that many celebrities before have been to for years. That is the point in life where they feel they are on an intellectual and personal level above common decency and the moral level of average american. When are we going to start to rid this country of politicians, lawyers, doctors, and stars who feel they are too important to have decency towward others as a priority in life. I am sure that a Mrs. Letterman somewhere that is real proud of not only the poor joke but also hispoor response to her Sarah Palins comments.
18. Jamie | 06.11.09
Many years ago Dave Letterman was stalked by a mentally ill woman who thought she was his wife. He did not prosecute her for years because he knew she was ill and it would be inappropriate. He showed heart and I respected him for that. He could have easily put her in jail.
What happened to that Dave Letterman? He is now a father, who has had a child out of wedlock…just like Bristol Palin. He knows how people in the public eye have to protect their familes. Sara Palin can be the butt of his jokes, but leave the children out of it. Willow Palin is not a public servant and deserves the privacy we all would want for our children.
20. Scott | 06.11.09
Letterman has miscalculated this time. Fame and popularity can only protect him so far.
21. V. Wilkins | 06.11.09
Oh get over yourself Sarah Palin, and stop trying to spin his words. If you want to thrust your family into the public as pawns to help you get elected, then this is the price.
22. justiceserved | 06.11.09
Palin will do anything to stay before the public including visit NYC! She turns any word said with regard to her, or her family, into a publicity opportunity. It’s called a joke. It’s not what Letterman said, as her daughter was featured on the cover of People Magazine recently, it’s the free pub. We already ended your 15 minutes of fame in November and any attempt to get back before a national spotlight will eventually end in failure. We know enough about you Sarah to know you’re not qualified and won’t be any more so in 2012. That was a gift from Letterman unintentionally gave to Palin. Enough already, don’t mention her, ice her out.
23. Robert G | 06.11.09
Letterman’s been on TV for decades. EVERYONE knows him and NO ONE would ever think that he would ever mean to threaten a child.
Sure he made a mistake, we all know that - HE knows that and he tried to apologize for it.
The Palins should accept his apology, go on his show and patch things up publicly. From a strategic point of view, they would attain the high moral ground and demonstrate the good Christian value of forgiveness. There is nothing to be gained by petty vindictiveness.
The “mama grizzly” has no place here; she’s trying to portray herself as a presidential/vice-presidential candidate. She should ACT like one.
24. CLG | 06.11.09
The tragedy of this scenario is that political analysts online and on traditional media have scored this public spat as a sporting event. What’s not being addressed is the obvious cynical political tactics that The Palin’s are employing in order to cast their family - that for months has been the butt of jokes - into a more positive light by posing as victims of “bad media.” They care little that are defaming David Letterman - a public icon who is not being granted the benefit of the doubt in this case - by claiming that he joked about a 14 year-old girl getting “raped.” Has a political analyst stopped to consider: “Was Letterman actually saying this? Was he REALLY?” Instead some analysts are permitting, and in some cases applauding, the Palin’s Machiavellian game that they are winning at Letterman’s expense. When are we going to have a reality check in our public discourse and stop politicians from continuing to score points by using this dirty tactic?
25. Cal | 06.11.09
Its called comedy and yes sometimes it crosses the line. Palin is acting like a hysterical beauty queen…go figger!
26. buster | 06.11.09
Sarah Palin has a right to be anguished. Deep down she knows she is matron to a brood that is Jerry Springer bound. The profound, though as of yet unacknowledged guild Mrs. Palin senses is fueling her over-the-top response to David Letterman’s slip. Those of us who are avid DL viewers know he would never impugn the character of a 14 year old girl. All of us know Dave would wait until she was at least 18. Jeez…grow up Sarah. PS - Sarah may be maneuvering for a career in broadcasting. American’s will watch any train wreck..and the Palin’s bring plenty of crazy collateral. There is one thing and I will address this to Sarah and ilk - “You are a joke in process. Letterman is a professional. The rules of engagement say “Don’t be as stupid as you seem to be or you will get your *** kicked in a very public way”.
27. Jack Wilson | 06.11.09
I find David Letterman’s comments in poor taste. Even if the comment was to have been for Bristol, they are still in poor taste. He should fully apologize to the Palin family.
28. su do | 06.11.09
Judgement made - David and the rest of the funny world need to step aside here. 14, 18, or any year-old is not the current-event subject/target and needs to be left out of your agenda. Sarah Palin is the target and by association and suspicions her adult accomplices and not unwitting or unwilling folks surrounding her - say, like the children of any age. Keep humor to those - like you - who are willing to expose themselves with intent to help, harm or humor. For example, like me, who wishes to expose my comments. Leave the rest of the human race alone and out of your agendas whatever they may be. Peace.
29. Penelope K. | 06.11.09
I was appalled at Dave’s remarks about S. Pallin’s children. Dave can’t be that hard-up to find something to say about other topics without attacking the children of a politician. Extremely poor taste, putting it lightly.
Dave, getting too old to edit your writing staff’s scripts??????
Dave, this wasn’t edgy, it was disgusting of you and your staff.
30. you can’t handle the truth | 06.11.09
1. Dave said he did not aim the joke at the 14 year old.
2. Palin needs to retract and acknowledge that or it’s Slander on her part.
3. From the start - I never believed Dave aimed the joke at a 14 year old - and neither does anyone else in their right mind!
4. Palin’s adult daughter’s “perverted sex behavior” came first; but Palin blames Dave for humoring it… that is rich! it’s called enabling-mom!
5. Republicans are hypocritical moralizers who always fall hard of their own mistakes! and then blame others for laughing at them.
31. Matt Francisco | 06.11.09
I think it’s all blown out of proportion. I thought he was talking about the older daughter when I first heard about it, like i’m sure most people did. It never entered my mind that he was taliking about the younger daughter…
32. please | 06.11.09
Yeah. She has the advantage, clearly. A washed up airline stewardess who wore out her welcome in a matter of months against a tv icon going on 3 decades. Wow.
33. bgr8ful | 06.11.09
Letterman often makes completely stupid and crass comments and jokes. So, maybe he should be fined by the comedy police, but a threat to 14-year-olds? Come on! That is beyond any reasonable persons critical thinking. Hence, the Palins’…they are not reasonable people.
34. Colin Brown | 06.11.09
He should apologize. But Palin is a negligent mother in the first place who is childlike in her behavior.
35. srq49 | 06.11.09
Palin should get over it. Her self-righteous indignation is worse than Letterman’s poor-taste jokes. Letterman never suggested or implied rape was involved. Consensual sex was implied and for Palin to suggest none of her minor children would ever have consensual sex is a joke itself.
36. bruce bernstein | 06.11.09
The only apology due is FROM Palin TO the American People–for not having the courage, as a vice presidential candidate, to appear on ANY Sunday talk show. No wonder/if she had appeared on say, This Week or Meet The Press or Face the Nation, her shallowness and ignorance would blossom even further under routine questioning that any viable candidate would relish…..In addition, since that time, she has showed that she is someone who cant take criticism and cant handle stress..Egad/completely unqualified for Vice President.
Thank you John McCain .
37. Billy_Bob_Bama | 06.11.09
Shame on the Palin’s for putting there 14 year old daughter in the media spotlight. This is no way to run for office, Gov. Palin. Shame on you.
38. Pat (former Republican voter) | 06.11.09
The Palins’ reactions show how paranoid and delusional they are about their status in the world. David Letterman a threat to Willow?!?, sounds like a slanderous statement to me but then again all of them are ‘celebrities’ and open to those things.
39. stevie ray | 06.11.09
i love dave but have to admit i’m enjoying this little game of media brinksmanship and frankly hope sarah palin wins. too often folks like dave get away with this stuff and the responses from the palins are great theater and are clearly gettin dave where he lives. he’s rocked off his smartass center and it’s fun watching him try to right his ship against a playa who knows how to play.
40. Rick | 06.11.09
David Letterman is classless, and his mean-spirited remarks merit an apology. Then, he should be fired for making abusive comments
Would he say anything like this about President Obama’s daughters?
41. Eric | 06.11.09
I believe that Lettermen and his writing staff dropped the ball on this one. He should apologize and move on. It’s not cool to joke about anyone’s children.
42. I.M.Pistoff | 06.11.09
Sarah Palin is an embarrassment, the female equivalent of Dan Quayle. as a public figure paid by the taxes of actual working people, she is fair game.
44. NJ Mike | 06.11.09
Such thin-skinned Republicans. Sorry, but I don’t find this joke by a comedian any more offensive than Palin’s campaign comments about Obama “paling around with terrorists”, and all the hateful, obnoxious remarks of the Republican annointed spokesman Rush Limbaugh. Speaking of whom, the Repubs also had their panties in a bunch over Wanda Sykes joke about Rush being the belated 9/11 terrorist….so sad, too bad!!
45. caladryl | 06.11.09
Is this how Sarah Palin is trying to stay relevant? Find something real to get offended about, like the millions of people who have lost their homes.
46. archmac | 06.11.09
Please…the Palins didn’t understand the joke in the first place (who on earth would think that Letterman meant one of the younger girls instead of the un-wed-mom Bristol?!), and now they’re trying to get an apology for an inference that Letterman never made.
Palin only has an advantage with fellow dimwits who see insult where it was not intended (and, apparently, do not always see it where it IS intended).
Frankly, I think this is just a pitiful ploy to stay in the limelight, and Sarah Palin has gone DOWN several notches in my estimation.
47. steve in ohio | 06.11.09
Mistake from Dave, sounds like he did own up to the mistake (not sure what Mr. Chapman is talking about, except perhaps his comment came before Dave was back on the air). Stupid? Yep. Tasteless? Yep. Does this mean he is into little girls? No.
But then when has Palin not exploited her family members issues for her own gain? Argue it, but it’s true.
If you are stupid enough to think that he was referring to the younger daughter after the older daughter was “knocked up” then you should be on another news web site.
48. grumpypaul | 06.11.09
Sarah Palin is more of a threat to the United States that David Lettermans comments could ever be. His intention was Not to belittle the younger daughter and he made that very clear in his clarification. However, there are too many that will rise to Palins defense simply because she represents what they mistakenly consider to be “wholesome attitudes” and “American Values”.
50. Just Saying | 06.11.09
I like how Todd’s response made Letterman look like a perv. Dave should just say sorry and move on or he will be feeding the fire that keeps the Palins warm.
51. Becky Thompson | 06.11.09
Good reporting. About time someone stood up to the nastiness. Go Palins! If it had been a conservative that had said that about a girl - with all the political correctness (not that they would) - their career would be over. Not so with liberals. I am all for free speech… he can say it… but I hope the public backlash is intense!
Becky
52. Jack D | 06.11.09
I think Plain is right and that Letterman should straight out apologize. I think it is improper to analyze this in terms of who has better access to airtime. The analysis should be what is the most appropriate action that Letterman should take based upon him being a sensitive adult.
53. Bernie Tabot | 06.11.09
Good job Sarah and family! It’s about time someone put the pompous Letterman in his place. I stopped watching him because I tired of hearing him trying to push his own political views. He is just a simple comedian that plays up to his radical left wing New York audience.
54. sampearson | 06.11.09
Letterman has shown that he is not someone I would allow my sons to watch in the past and this is the reason why I have no respect for him. He will say and do anything for ratings. He needs to be fired today!
55. luvwknd | 06.11.09
The Palins are blowing this way out of scope, similar to her run at VP, she blew it way out of porportion!
Letterman’s job is to make people laugh and yes, typically at the expense of another person, however none of it is intended to be taken litterally, which the Palin’s did!
So, I say to the Palin’s “Get Over It” there was no harm intended so don’t make it out to appear as it was harmful!
57. Bacteria | 06.11.09
It’s good to see that Letterman is out of the closet on his fascination with underage girls. I hope the other victims will come forward so he can be put away once and for all.
58. mauiperal | 06.11.09
The point is that it is inappropriate to bring the children of public figures into the public arena. How about President Obama’s children? Or David Letterman’s son? How appropriate would jokes be about them?
Even “Adult” children should not be fair game unless they have entered the public arena.
David Letterman is an entertainer who earns a living at this. Let him make his money without attacking children.
59. Not a fan of either Letterman or Palin | 06.11.09
I not a fan of either of these people, but seriously…Palin is calling Letterman a physical “threat” to Willow? Yeah, right.
60. Sean | 06.11.09
David Letterman? An old pig is searching spiritual bailouts from his masters. Seeing his rating goes lower every day, he wants to show off all his clown tricks to please his whoever bosses, I guess democrat tyrants? But, old pig, you picked a wrong fight. He really should be sued.
61. Chuck Barnitz | 06.11.09
The Palens asked us to take the joke of her nomination, they should be able to take a joke from Letterman. If they don’t let it drop they’re just pandering to her future constituency is she shooses to run in 2012.
62. A. L. Flanagan | 06.11.09
OK, Letterman probably should apologize. But, come on, advantage Palin? She’s vastly overreacting to a late-night joke. At the very least, she’s putting the focus on personal issues and not her ideas. Which is only a good idea if she doesn’t have any.
63. donald rowan | 06.11.09
I don’t watch his show, neither do I think he is funny. Sarah Palin has every right to protect her daughter and discredit this flamboyant and flippant remark. Go get him Sarah
64. Marcos El Malo | 06.11.09
It was a poor joke, both in the sense that it was in poor taste and in the sense that it was poorly constructed and open to misinterpretation. However, the joke only makes sense if Letterman was referring to Bristol.
However, the overreaction by the Palin camp shows that they’re firmly members of the hypersensitive GOP victim culture. The distortions they’re making to smear Letterman show how much they embrace their victimhood. Todd Palin was the first to mention rape. The Palin spokeswoman, Stapleton, is now suggesting that Letterman represents a real and physical threat to WIllow Palin.
The main reason this is not a smart play for the Palins is that it further undermines Gov. Palin as an irresponsible mother, one who doesn’t teach her daughters about birth control but allows their boyfriends to spend the night. It is this example of Palin’s cognitive dissonance that will stain her long after everyone has forgotten Letterman’s joke. A secondary reason is that the public is tired of GOP politicians playing the martyr.
65. Bill Johnson | 06.11.09
At no time did Mr. Letterman use, suggest or imply “rape.” And he was obviously referring to the promiscuous Bristol who’s shown her own “family values” having a child out of wedlock at at a tender age. Letterman was obviously not referring to 14-year old Willow. And he was making a JOKE - about ELLIOT SPITZER in any event. That’s what comedians do.
This manufactured problem expressed by manufactured outrage is just another reason why the public should keep this strange, pathologically-lying Ms. Palin (Sarah, to be clear) away from any more public offices. SHE’S a danger - to common sense!
66. McCain/Palin: Two Thousand Never | 06.11.09
How dare self-righteous Sarah Palin act as though it is out of the scope of reality that her 14 year old be having sex when her (STILL) unmarried SEVENTEEN YEAR OLD was dragged up onstage on national television looking like the World’s Youngest Baby Oven? Please… And who cares about any one of the Palins at this point? She’s a disgraced moron of a politician whose only chance of a continued career is the fawning adoration of even bigger morons. Stop writing about her and her idiot antics and focus on actual news. I think there might be a war or two going on right now, or are you folks still too distracted by that incessant winking?
67. Scott Gordon | 06.11.09
This is EXACTLY the same situation as Don Imus and the regrettable comments he made about a basketball team two years ago.
The problem is not the person making the comments, or even the person the comments are about. The problem is not even the words which were spoken.
The problem is the mismatch in communication ability. David Letterman wants to pick on young girls who don’t have a TV show?
David Letterman is a bully. That’s all he is. Same as Don Imus.
Good for Sara Palin to stand up for her daughter!
scottst
68. Darrelb | 06.11.09
How can anyone defend Letterman on this? Based on the response from the Left I take it Obama’s daughters are fair game now too. Or are the Palins “unique” as Harold Ford argued this morning?
69. Matt Matula | 06.11.09
Is this woman for real? Your pity and appalled card is overused! Enough, enough! Go back to Alaska! Talk about making a monster ordeal out of a stupid joke - this is yet another sad attempt for Ms. Palin to gain spotlight and attention, it’s sad really. You lost, you were a pathetic attempt at a self-destructing Republican party to win, thankfully America has finally woken up. So, it’s over, you lost, go away now. I mean have you ever in your life seen such poor losers!?!?! The way to put out a fire is smother it, and it goes out; we need to “put out the flame of pathetic attempts to gain exposure.” Ignore her, and pray she goes away. Dave Lettermen, you are a hero, do not apologize. You are a victim, a victim of pathetic attempts, by a pathetic loser trying to sensationalize her personal agenda. She can’t do that if we ignore her! Go Dave! You are hysterical, we need people like you to say what we are all thinking, well except scrambling Republicans!
70. jacqueline steele | 06.11.09
MY VIEW OF DAVE LETTERMAN HAS CHANGED. I USED TO THINK HE HAD MORE CLASS. HE IS TAKING HIS POLITICS TO A NEW LEVEL; GOING AFTER THE 14 AND 18 YEAR OLD DAUGHTERS TO GET TO THEIR MOTHER. SHAME. SHAME. SHAME. MAYBE WE SHOULD START CALLING HIM “DIRTY DAVE”.
71. walt magnuson | 06.11.09
I would think Alex Rodrequez would be damm mad that letterman would indicate A-Rod would rape any female let alone a minor. I guess Letterman is just another dirty old man
72. David Dial | 06.11.09
Given the governor’s propensity for making herself look stupid every time she opens her mouth in public, turning down Dave’s invitation to walk into the lion’s den was either uncharacteristically wise or a case of the almighty protecting fools. We would never have been sure which was true had she not then abandoned the mirage of wisdom by baiting the lion from a distance. I could be wrong, but I believe the lion will roar tonight.
74. Steve Wagner | 06.11.09
What kind of sick perverted mind does Ms Palin have assuming that Letterman was talking about her 14 year old that frankly I forgot she had instead of the previously knocked up unmarried 18 year old that I also would have forgotten if she wasn’t trying to get into the national spotlight herself as a spokesman for teen abstinence. Almost if someone was using their own hypocritical child to manufacture an issue.
75. Helen | 06.11.09
I am tired of news media/comics etc. taking jibes at Bristol or any other young teen who has made a mistake. First, the media should have left her alone. She was NOT running for office. Dragging her mistake through the public !!! She is only Eighteen? Do you ,so called, adults remember mistakes that you made at that age when you thought you were an adult because to age to vote was 18!!!!!(Who set that age level anyway?) I do and I am 63!!! I have seen my own children make errors in judgement that they would not make now…and have just finished helping a grandaughter through another!! Attack the politician and or their politics but leave the children alone!!! Doing otherwise, be you comedian or media…is in very poor taste and in my opinion very, very low class!!!
76. Doobie Keebler | 06.11.09
If Sarah and Todd want to protect thier daughters, they woul ddo well to either physically bar them from having pre-marital sex, provide them with contraceptives. The fact is, Bristol Palin DID get knocked up, and Sarah dragged her family into teh public spotlight, so why should she expect other than to be lampooned for her hypocrisy? Sorry, but you’re Failin’, Palin.
77. Joy Mills | 06.11.09
Come on! I am a Democrat! And a true Hillary Fan. But I would certainly not slur either of these young girls. Both are young, one completely innocent and the other guilty of making a mistake. Shut up Mr. Letterman. You are not funny or entertaining!
78. Gogi Herrera | 06.11.09
Letterman never said te word “rape”. Todd Palin lied when he made his statement. Sarah rightly was angered when the joke was made and referred to her daughter, the 14-year-old. Bristol Palin is fair game since she is now in the public spotlight by going on talk shows. Poor taste for the joke? Yeah.
But what else is new for late night tv? Get a grip, Sarah.
Enuf apologizing Dave. Let’s all move on.
79. Michael Gordan Peter Douglas D’Souza | 06.11.09
I do not understand why the public would approve any ******* from making such comments about anyone’s daughter. The fact that Letterman can get away with it reflects badly on America.
80. George Petzelt | 06.11.09
It’s about time someone stood up to these late night guys who say whatever they want but become highly offended if someone says something about them or their family. Just like the common bully, they know that most people can’t do anything about what they have to say.
81. Jason | 06.11.09
How old was Bristol when she was knocked up? About Willow’s age?
The comment by Letterman does not encourage or insinuate it is acceptable for an adult to have sex with an underage person in any way. That is utterly ridiculous to say it was, regardless of which daughter he was speaking of. And he did not specify which one. Most likely he had no idea which one was there. But even if he did know, it’s not like Palin did a good job keeping her first underage daughter from getting pregnant…well before the age of consent. So, even if Letterman did intend the joke about Willow, Palin’s control over her children’s promiscuity is the joke.
Imagine Palin as President of the United States. Do you think she, or her family, might be the subject of ridicule or comments from people in America and around the world? What do you suppose the reaction will be? Spying? Interrogation? Declaration of War? One can only guess how she will construe and react to anything.
Remember when Republicans thought they would become the permanent majority and threatened everyone openly that, “you’re either with us or against us” (regardless of whether we are right or wrong, and killing thousands of innocent people based on lies)? Thank God those days are over and brains rule the nation again over the years of bull bravado Bush.
Frankly, I really hope she is the Republican Nominee for many years to come. There isn’t a single moderate who trusts her in any way. She’ll never win anything but the support of her fellow radicals, and that will never get the job done. And Conservatism will wither away until things like Gay Marriage become Rights and illegal War based on lies as a policy for boosting the sagging economy will be some sort of crime. And all we’ll hear from the right is the continued cries of martyrdom at comments like Letterman’s, because they will be an ongoing joke and who knows what evil they will resort to in order to try to remain relevant in a world that fears them ever more.
82. rolandson | 06.11.09
It is evident that Sara Palin is seeking to deflect attention from her lack of parenting ability by misstating Letterman’s joke and follow-up. To anyone with a brain, Letterman was clearly referencing Palin and her parenting skills and not the behavior of the elder daughter, however poor that kid’s judgment may be.
It should be noted that her initial response to Letterman’s joke, before her handlers were able to draft an almost thoughtful, albeit abusive written response for her, was something suitable for Joe Six-pack after he had consumed a few. It was only after they had taken a day to consult a dictionary did she respond with language that is clearly not her own.
83. John Ryan | 06.11.09
I think he should get the same treatment that Don Imus got… Shut his show down.
84. Larry Talbott | 06.11.09
Once again the concervative Palin camp proves that they think the general public is as stupid as they are. I heard Lettermans joke and I knew who he was talking about. I knew he was refering to the oldest daughter who had been pregnant not the younger one. And the rest of America knew who he was talking about! Sara Palin is trying to bring Letterman down with a tactic only seen in junior high. And the rest of America sees this! Sara Palin is in fact abusing her 14 year old daughter by bringing her into this. Sara Palin should realise her political career will never leave the back woods of Alaska and get over it!
85. Jet Jagger | 06.11.09
Liberals are getting too liberal. Personal responsibility has been replaced with “just because I said it doesn’t make it so” thinking in liberal corners. I seriously wish liberals would quit saying what they want while succinctly seeking to shut conservatives up. Perhaps it is time for liberals to shut up and let conservatives people who practice personal responsibility get a few words in without always feeling the need to interject a distasteful follow-up. You hear that, Mr. Letterman and Mr. Maher?
86. BrianK | 06.11.09
Kudos to the Palins for holding their ground.
The 14 year old daughter was at the game - Not the 18 year old.
The joke was in very poor taste, and technically illegal. A full apology is due to the Palins, regardless of your political views.
Of course, the TV personality will use this to pump up ratings… and the politician will use it to pump up public opinion.
The real losers here are Willow (the minor child), all underage children in the spotlight… and The Public.
God Bless America.
87. Michael | 06.11.09
Look for prima-donna Palin to blow this way beyond what it calls for. She loves the attention. Was it a low class joke? Probably. But using the word “rape” is just Palin looking to make it worse then it was, this was meant as a joke about her older daughter, who Palin used as a prop in her campaign. Her daughter has also went out of her way to seek media attention. If you can’t take the heat, stay out of the fire.
PS - now I hear McCain is jumping in. Remember this?
“Why is Chelsea Clinton so ugly? Because her father is Janet Reno.”
– Sen. John McCain, speaking to a Republican dinner, June 1998.
88. Jim Wynn | 06.11.09
There is a great movie from the 1950’s staring among others Robert Young called Crossfire. There is a scene in which Robert Young talks to a young man about hate and prejudice. His speech ends with him telling the young man about how hate, unchecked, eventually comes around to the point where people may start hating someone like the boy himself, a simple farm boy from the Midwest. The people who think David Letterman’s comments about the Palin’s are funny just because it flatters their political view should beware. Keep laughing, people who perpetuate hate like Letterman does will eventually get around to hating you, regardless of your politics, race, social status etc. It is just a matter of time.
89. Devalkyrie | 06.11.09
When will Sarah Palin go away…..?
Probably when she gets trounced in her next national election.
91. Robbell | 06.11.09
Since all her daughters were/are having sex as minors, who knows who he was really talking about
92. Bob Mulhall | 06.11.09
David Letterman would never make a comment, of a sexual nature, about a 14 year old girl. Palin should get a life and/or get out of politics - her constant whinning is getting old. I had voted Repulican my entire life (65 years old) untill she was added to the McCain ticket. I think the saying “Everyone wants to get to heaven but no one wants to die” fits Palin to a tee!
93. Charlie | 06.11.09
What nonsense! The Palins are total media *****. They put their entire family into the media including their unwed daughter/mother. Eveyone knows that Letterman was not discussing an underage child. Fake outrage to get more attention will open them up to more ridicule. They deserve what they get.
94. Helen | 06.11.09
IMHO, the Palins set the scene for ridicule by parading their pregnant under-age (at the time) daughter, Bristol to the public, why didn’t they leave her home?
Still I think that David Lettermans statement was uncalled for. some things said in poor taste realy can’t be appologized for, maybe Mr. Letterman realizes that.
95. CODEZ | 06.11.09
What? omg the comment wasn’t toward the 14 yr old kid it wast directly to bristol. Get over your self Palin welcome to the USA not ALASKA. Besides if bristol is or was having sex with Alex Rodrigues so what if she doesn’t want her business out there than close your legs simple as that. Yah, MOM. Besides Letterman you Rock.
96. Patrick Fuchs | 06.11.09
I think Governor Palin’s response to Mr. Letterman sums up everything about her. Obviously the well-loved comedian was doing a comedy routine at the time his comments were made. No reasonable person would think otherwise.
97. Jersey | 06.11.09
All in all it seems Letterman’s joke was intended for the older daughter who made news by having a child at an early age and out of wedlock. Dave just messed up by not doing his research. With that said, any joke like that against the children of a politician or any adversary is absolutely unwarranted, disgraceful and inappropriate. Letterman should be ashamed and should apologize sincerely. I think this one will sting him for a while.
100. Don @ Lily Hildewig | 06.11.09
Mr Letterman’s comment about the Palin’s daughter is distasteful, disgusting and unacceptable. That kind of talk about anyone’s daughter is insulting. The other comment about Palin’s lipstick and airline attendent’s is also disgusting. This guy has no conscience and win’s the prize for Mr trash.
Don and Lily Hildewig
Sarasota Florida
101. Alex P | 06.11.09
First, he wasn’t referring to the 14 year old.
Second, if it looks like white trash, and talks like white trash, it probably is white trash. That would describe the Palins.
102. Benjamin | 06.11.09
As if we needed further clarification that Palin would have been a horrible addition to the Whitehouse, now she’s drama queening over Letterman. Doesn’t she have a state to run and shouldn’t she be running it with the dignity and class that the head of one of these United States should have?
Letterman is a comedian, not a head of state. It doesn’t take an intellectual to figure out which one should have a thick skin and be capable of conducting themselves with dignity and class, and which one basically has a blank check to be tasteless.
A presidential class person would have shrugged it off with a “comedians will be comedians” attitude, thereby demonstrating strength and mastery of the situation. Palin, OTOH, is doing what she’s doing, demonstrating weakness and victimization. Two qualities that should never be apparent in a presidential or vice presidential candidate.
Our nation is really screwed right now if this is the best republicans have to offer, because we’re looking at defacto one party rule for a long time to come if it is.
103. Virginia Heidinger | 06.11.09
Let’s see if this is acceptable. I’m appalled that Letterman would make a sick joke like that about a 14 or an 18 year old young woman. If he wants to make perverted jokes, he should have the backbone to pick on someone his own size. I’m not sure he realizes what a jaded and ugly old man he is.
When I was growing up we referred to people living together as shacking up and the people white trash. Well, Letterman was “shacking up” with his girl friend for many years before he “knocked her up”. Even after fathering her child it took him several years to be honorable enough to marry her. I somehow think that his “tender sensibilities” would be hurt if someone made his family and his situation the butt of sick jokes. He’s disgusting.
104. brad | 06.11.09
This really makes me mad.
Although in poor taste, Letterman’s joke was obviously not directed toward the the 14 year old. And never did he mention rape.
The Palin’s know this, if they don’t then they are dimmer than I thought - and that is pretty dim.
This type of politicking drives me crazy. The false outrage designed to get everyone up-in-arms about a non-issue is juvenile and we should expect more from our elected officials.
Seriously, grow up.
105. Burl Carter | 06.11.09
David Letterman is a comedian. He does not dictate policy, he writes jokes. Jokes are meant to be funny….but not all people will find every joke funny. Obviously, Sarah Palin didn’t but instead of taking it, she has to try and scoop up as much airtime as possible. Letterman cracks jokes on everyone, that is why he is paid the big bucks. If you don’t like him, don’t watch him. If he apologizes, accept it like a mature person would, and don’t use it as an opportunity to exploit your election chances. If anyone is a threat to Sarah Palin’s daughter, I would say it herself.
106. Jill | 06.11.09
Letterman is a comedian. People understand that. Palin is an idiot, and a publicity hog, and everyone knows that too.
108. Jim | 06.11.09
I enjoy Letterman, but he really blew it here. Very bad taste - he needs to apologize. Maybe they have overreacted, but if it were my daughter (or his daughter) being joked about, I probably would as well. And to repeat them is really bad tastes. Especially the knocked up one. Even if made about her 18-year old, still really bad taste. Joking about someone like Paris Hilton is one thing. Were such jokes ever made about Chelsea Clinton???? Would they make such jokes about Michelle Obama? I would hope not.
109. C Nelson | 06.11.09
What on earth do the Palins have to lose in this one? Support of the media? The over-reported “conflict with Newt Gingrich” is a non-issue. The Palins’ indignation over Letterman’s remarks is well-placed and justified. Letterman was wrong. If he fails to apologize properly he is contributing to some much deserved public sympathy for the Palins.
110. Chris S | 06.11.09
Absolutely appalling. Did his writers run out of material? I hope Sarah Palin puts on some lipstick and becomes the “hockey Mom” she is and slapsticks him to Nielson rating ****. Mr. Letterman - pick on someone your own age and layoff on the children. I’m GLAD to have other late night TV options!
111. tourist | 06.11.09
Topical humor is just that: humor. We all know Rodriguez is catting around with madonna and others. We also know that Bristol was just on the cover of PEOPLE magazine for getting knocked up and graduating from high school. To suggest that Letterman was exorcising some perversive streak is just nutty. Anyone with common sense knows the joke he was going for. Bristol has put herself out there in the public- so it should come as no surprise that she is fodder for late night comics. Trying to pass Bristol off as a “role model” or twist what Letterman said for political gain is pretty immoral. Particularly for the Palin’s to come up with suggestive comments about raping their 14 year old daughter, and Dave being a pervert. Those are the Palin’s words, not Lettermans. He goes for topical humor that’s understood by most people.
112. riverwomansdaughter | 06.11.09
I don’t think the Palin’s care if they “wear out their welcome” in the lower 48 or not. Parents have the right to protect their children. I applaud the Palins for taking this stand.
114. lorraine gross | 06.11.09
It is disgusting to use the term “KNOCKED UP” regarding any female of any age.
Had you used the same term regarding Chelsea Clinton or Mrs Obama, then the
Democrats would have created an uproar, and been totally justified.
Obviously there is a double standard here.
I will never buy any products that are advertised on CBS or listen to your
stupid show.
115. Tevan | 06.11.09
Letterman did NOT name Willow, and was referring to the older daughter who has one illegitimate child already. Its like the Clampets being offended because someone called them hillbillies and part of the family lives in Boston.
Who cares. This is just Palin keeping her name in the press in prep for a run at Obama in ‘12. Who cares?
116. Jersey | 06.11.09
Letterman will remain a comedic centerpiece in our culture while that maverickie airhead who ran in the last election cycle will be forgotten like Bush and many similar embarassments
117. Kathleen | 06.11.09
If you had children and someone made a tasteless joke about them you should defend them. As a parent I applaud the Palin’s for calling out that old degenerate for his comments about their daughter and perhaps spotlighting his other sick and sexist comments about young girls, namely Jessica Biel and Lauren Conrad. He is a dirty old man. Period
118. Irene | 06.11.09
Sarah and John set up her family to ridicule when they brought the young unwed couple into the limelight amidst all of their right wing, conservative talk. If you are going to talk the talk, then walk the walk. She should have never accepted the position as running mate with her knowledge that her own daughter was pregnant. Could it happen to anyone? Yes. Should be make it so very, very public? No.
Letterman is doing what he and many others have been paid to do for years…be irreverent, rude, and sometimes funny.
Get over it.
119. Athena1955 | 06.11.09
NO ONE other than the Palins and some of their rwing nut pals thought that Letterman was talking about the younger daughter.
Personally.. I think that the PALINS twisting Letterman’s remarks to make it seem that he was talking about the 14 year old says volumns about their OWN SICK PERVERTED MINDS.
120. Jim Jones | 06.11.09
Okay, bad joke. But I think everyone knows who Letterman was referring to. I completely agree with CSM that the Palins are wearing out their unearned welcome. If McCain had not plucked them out of obscurity, they would have never worked their way to such stardom. Gov Palin should be a little more humble with the opportunity she was given last August.
121. Bob F | 06.11.09
So it’s ok for Fox “News” broadcasters to call some doctors “baby killers”, and that supposedly has no effect. But when a comedian tells a lame joke about a right wingers daughter (who was knocked up last year), its inciting sexual abuse? Can’t have it both ways folks - if you dish it out you should be able to take it.
122. Chris Z. | 06.11.09
It looks as if Palin herself is not averse to using her daughters for media attention, else she would have let this quietly blow over.
She also appears hypocritical in her indignation after she used her campaign speeches to slander Barrack Obama, knowing that she was telling lies.
That said,Letterman’s comments were out of line, no matter which daughter he meant.
123. JUDITH THOMSEN | 06.11.09
LETTERMAN’S COMMENTS ARE NOT FUNNY,THEY ARE OUTRAGEOUS, UNACCEPTABLE AND DISGUSTINGLY DISRESPECTFUL!
HE DEFINITELY SHOULD APOLOGIZE TO THE PALINS!
124. Carl Johnson | 06.11.09
Looks like a mention of freedom of speech is in order. During the campaign Obama and his wife were constantly ridiculed (many times unfairly) by Palin especially about terrorist ties and whether Michelle was “patriotic” or “proud enough” of her country. Dave was obviously talking about Bristol, not Willow, when he made his comments, was not implying rape, etc.
Palin’s reaction as well as McCain’s is one of the reasons they weren’t elected- It is the right-wing extremists who would attempt to muffle the press and other media if their own agenda isn’t reflected.
125. dave taylor | 06.11.09
letterman. is one sick man or not a man but a bucket of dirt.vote palin 2012.
126. anicoletti@aol.com | 06.11.09
Mr. Letterman is a coward. When that little lady broke into his house and his farmhand conspired against him, he cried like a baby. He strung Regina along for so many years before he would agree to marry her and even after she produced an illegitimate child, Harry. He leaves that action, rather non-action for Harry to live down the rest of his life. How can he dare comment on births out of wedlock. This man has no ethics, no soul, no talent and will soon go into oblivion like Jack Paar.
127. LisaG78 | 06.11.09
Gee whiz, a comedian guilty of poor taste, and a politician playing it for all it’s worth–what else is new? Letterman is not threat to Willow, and Sarah Palin and her very visible family are not above being made fun of.
128. Carl from WA | 06.11.09
Dave was crass. Dave was arrogant and conceited. Go get ‘um Sara. Rip him a new one. Don’t cut any of them any slack, they would do the same for you. Republicans have a real candidate, if they are smart enough to realize it.
130. MiCKEYJ | 06.11.09
I don’t really think you can say anyone has an “advantage.” Letterman did already clarify that he wasn’t talking about the 14-year-old. As a former comedian, I know that jokes aren’t factual statements. Whether or not he knew which daughter went to the Yankee game is irrelevant. Most people know that Palin has a daughter who got pregnant. Most thinking people would have assumed that Bristol was the daughter he was talking about. The audience got it and laughed. Jokes are a funny twisting of the facts designed to get laughs. That’s it. Of course it wouldn’t have been funny if Letterman specifically said “the 14-year-old daughter, etc.” His writers crafted a joke based on the well-known situations of Bristol and A-Rod and married them into a punchline. Listen, to write a joke based on a real incident, situation, mood or person, etc., you just think of all the absurd things that could have happened or think to yourself, “wouldn’t it have been funny if…” It’s a JOKE!
Whether or not you like a joke or not is pure personal taste. Worse ones have been said. Sarah Palin should be glad George Carlin isn’t alive because he would have made Letterman’s joke sound like something in the kids magazine “Highlights.”
Anyone who thrusts themselves in the public eye should be prepared for anything and everything. Particularly Sarah Palin who used her daughter Bristol’s pregnancy and subsequent birth as a promotional tool for her campaign. What kind of mother would do that? Not mine. Not my wife. She should have left the family at home. She brought it on herself, really. The news is fodder for comedians. If you don’t make news, you’re safe.
131. kevin bergen | 06.11.09
The Palin,s are right and Dave is wrong. His apology was a (bad) joke as well. Just make a sincere apology, admit you screwed up and move on.
133. Mark | 06.11.09
You know this is just like the hollywood elite-nothing is out of bounds unless visited upon them. They feel free to ridicule, joke about and moralize when they themselves are often adults who are doing far more reprehensible things than most 14 year old girls. Whether he was talking about the 14 year old daughter of Sarah or the 18 year old one doesn’t matter-He was wrong and must apologize. I’m done with him until he does.
What happened to you Dave is that like Tom Hanks…you really think that people want to hear your barbs, those surely more based on a cowards way of making a political laughing stock of someone on the otherside of you politically. We already know you hated George Bush, we know you wanted BHO to become President, and you have bought into the “its OK because I a celebrity.” Not one nearly on the level of Sarah I might add.
You lose Dave Big time on this one.
134. Anojnymus | 06.11.09
It is in bad taste on lLettrman’s part to say something about Bristol even. His TV time should not be a threat to people of fame. Masses must denounce him by boycotting his show. As it can be anyone’s daughter tomorrow.
135. carol | 06.11.09
Palin just sets her self up for criticism for responding to jokes from comedians. she comes accross as more of a cook and not very bright, and using her children as a way to get herself back in the spotlight. I would suggest she just go back into her grizzly cave. It is better to be silent rather than open your mouth and confirm everyone’s suspicion that she is not very intelligent. she just removes all doubt with every foray into the public spotlight.
136. chris black | 06.11.09
Just as i have always thought–he is an arrogant *****. Never thought he was funny….
137. Bob DeVoe | 06.11.09
You had your chance to apologize to Mrs. Palin and her daughter like a man but you acted like a weasel instead by creating a lame excuse. Next time try the White House. ****, if you can take on girls barely in their teens why not try your sick humor on youngsters as well?
Keep your filthy fantasies to yourself old man!
Bob
138. F Politics | 06.11.09
Sarah should have raised Bristol better and this wouldn’t be an issue. Now she wears a scarlett letter. Also McCain commenting is HILARIOUS since he made disgusting jokes about young Chelsea years back.
139. Disgusted | 06.11.09
Letterman is a loser. His audience is one big group of losers. I wish for them the opportunity to react to these kind of vicious statements made about themselves and their own children, or grandchildren, some day, and listen to an audience laugh about it and know it is reaching millions of viewers. As a democrat I am disgusted by the meanness of my own party. Letterman “knocked up” his own girlfriend. I have friends and relatives who are flight attendants and I do not see the humor in generalizing them as being “****** looking”. I will never watch his show again.
140. Liz | 06.11.09
Bristol — the one who got “knocked up” already, and the one who has come out and made herself a spokesperson for abstinence. Bristol was the daughter who was pregnant out of wedlock and that’s what would joke funny. It makes sense that way.
Assuming he’s talking about Bristol — well, that woman is 18 and an adult, and she’s decided to be a spokesperson for abstinence. This isn’t about being the child of a politician any more. She decided to be a public figure, and when you put yourself on display like that, you are fair game.
So if he was talking about Bristol — which is what I assumed from just hearing the joke and not hearing all the uproar — then it makes sense. It’s merely in bad taste, not a joke about a sex crime. I can’t imagine Dave would be that stupid.
141. Rob Roy | 06.11.09
Dave has become a frigging baffoon. He needs to give us a break from the scum bag press deals out. Back to good humor or shut up. Moron!
144. Voltaire’s Ghost | 06.16.09
“And the Palins are taking his statement literally.” Well no wonder, considering that they take everything literally, e.g. the Creation of the World in 7 days, etc. We are not talking about well-educated people here, and this is evidenced further in the exacerbation of a misunderstood joke by the media and Palin’s cult of followers. (Oh yes, they are a cult; just read their comments on this article. “Crucify him!” they chant in unison.) Do not get me wrong, yes the joke was in bad taste anyway, but it is not a firing offense for a professional comedian to tell a bad joke.
The biggest joke of all is that Palin’s daughter that did get “knocked-up” is now a spokesperson for the failed policy of abstinence that her mother pushes as an alternative for education on safe-sex. Is it really a surprise that the groups, of which Palin belongs to one, that push this failure have the highest incidences of teen pregnancy? Educate yourself people, really there is no excuse for you to continue to believe the absurd when you can easily Google up the latest peer-reviewed research on the effectiveness of such programs. Of course, this is if you can manage to bring yourself to believe that it is not the work of the devil to concoct the results against your “God”.
145. Jeffersonian | 06.16.09
Just a question:
did the Alaska politician denounce the pretty rough attacks of Rush Limbaugh against then president Clinton’s daughter, as quite inappropriate?
One hope she is consistent here.
J.
146. razz mcmasterson | 06.16.09
so i see u guys screen the comments rather than an open forum n pick n choose what suits your beliefs. The csmonitor looks worse for this then most of the topics in yer blogs typical of the religious extreme
147. Richard Hertz | 06.16.09
Palin lost the moral high ground with regards to her kids when she paraded them around for votes during her campaign.
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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. James Voisard | 06.11.09
It’s a shame that Letterman uses an inappropriate forum to push his own political views. A joke is one thing but a personal attack is another. It goes way beyond appropriate bounds to be using a national forum to abuse children - anyone’s children.
It’s a shame that his personal hateful political views have ruined his otherwise very good comedy. But I do have a choice to watch or not watch his show and I will use that right.