Romney recently posed with a supporter donning a controversial campaign sign. Another photograph shows Romney holding the sign.
WASHINGTON (CNN) - GOP presidential hopeful Mitt Romney has a message for those who are criticizing him for recently posing next to a supporter’s controversial campaign sign: “lighten up.”
The former Massachusetts governor took heat over the weekend from one town-hall audience member for recently posing with a supporter who donned a sign saying “"No to Obama, Osama and Chelsea's Moma."
The sign is an obvious grouping of the two leading Democratic presidential candidates - Sens. Hillary Clinton, the mother of Chelsea Clinton, and Barack Obama - with Al Qaeda leader and 9/11 organizer Osama Bin Laden.
"I don't look at all the signs when I'm having pictures taken,” Romney said during a town-hall meeting in Exeter, New Hampshire when pressed to apologize by one member of the audience. The comments were captured and made available to CNN by New Hampshire Public Radio.
“I have a lot of pictures taken with people, Romney also said. “I don't really spend all that much time looking at the signs and the T-shirts and the buttons. I don't have anything to say about a sign somebody else was holding."
"You know what? Lighten up slightly," he added. "There are a lot of jokes out there. I'm not responsible for all the signs I see.”
– CNN's Steve Brusk and Alexander Mooney
From CNN Politics
© 2011 Cable News Network. Turner Broadcasting System, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
| Advertising practices | Advertise with us | About us | Contact us | Work for us | Help
Poetic, funny, I love it!
Correction, Osama is Obama's middle name. Nothing to do with Bin Laden
Figures, what else would you expect from Romney.
I'm guessing that the spelling prowess of this particular Romney supporter is probably typical of the intelligence level of the people backing him.
Mr. Romney must think all of the citizens of this country are mushrooms. If he really thinks that we believe that he does not check out the clothing and signs he has his picture taken with.
Because what you want in a leader is a man with few observational skills or detail orientation.
On the plus side, this makes it a lot easier for somebody to end up next to him wearing an "I'm With Stupid" shirt.
I find it amusing that someone running for President can take this incident so light-heartedly.
He may not be responsible for the signs, but he is responsible for his stance and being apart of that photo. If he can not see a simple sign that would bring offense, how can we trust that he will not slip up in simple day to day duties in his Presidency?
He does not have my vote and I do hold him responsible, whether it is his poster or not–that's his body.
Good for Romney. While the sign was in somewhat poor taste, the idea that a candidate is responsible for the behavior of every supporter, even one that he stands next to, is absurd. And quite frankly, it's just not that bad a sign. Don't we have bigger concerns to face?
Rommey is posing behind that sign, and if he says he dosen't know he was, he's not telling the truth. If he can't tell the truth about something as simple as that, what eles would he lie about. We alread have a President who has trouble with the truth, we don't need another.
The people whining about this are the same people that have been comparing Bush to Hitler for years. Get over it – it's just a sign.
who cares what the sign say....and maybe is correct...at least for sure it is very amusing
so what...maybe it is true...at the least it is entertaining....if you can't stand the heat stay out of the kitchen
SO funny, that sign!
Um...if Obama actually HELD (which in another photo Romney is doing) a sign that said "No to Bush, Hitler, and Mittler", I don't think people would just say to those who have a problem with it to "lighten up".
I expect a bit more out of presidential candidates then talk radio "jokes" aimed at the lowest common denominator. If you can't see why this is beyond a joke, that it has crossed a line, then you are simply part of the problem.
What a tool. A few more major mistakes like this and he'll be out of the running.
People who make signs like that are shameful. Obama is not Osama Bin Laden, same way Bush is not Adolf Hitler (as some on the other side of the spectrum have represented him). We can't have a civilized democracy if we let this kind of sleaze stand. This is not a partisan issue.
Hmmm, blatantly hateful signs aimed at Republicans or Bush, OK keep it up! A humourous sign aimed at the Saints of the Left, outrage and horror ensues.
Quite frankly Romney screwed up by not standing by his supporter and issuing this lame comment. There is nothing wrong with the sign, and his refusal to stand by the supporter shows he should not be president. By the same not, I agree with that sign...
So Romney equates two of our country's most prominent senators to a terrorist leader... Is it safe to assume that Romney would show the same contempt for congress were he in the White House? Isn't this the same level of contempt Bush has shown for the past 7 years? Is Romney the status quo candidate?
I'm sorry, can someone remind me if the primary elections are coming up?
This is so irresponsible and really sad for a politician to say.
So Romney doesn't spend much time looking at the signs he stands in front of? Let's all agree that he had better start, otherwise we're going to end up with another "Mission Accomplished" sign - and situation.
Ummm.....Obama's middle name is not Osama. It's Hussein.
President's are supposed to have discretion. If you don't have the political acumen to know that posing with that sign is going to become an issue for some people, you don't have the political acumen to President. Obama and Clinton have shown themselves to be committed to working towards a better America. You've just shown yourself to be wed to highly partisan and unAmerican behavior. May as well give your money to Fred Thompson and hope to be a cabinet official at this point, Mitt.
FIRST OF ALL THAT WAS NOT A JOKE; IT WAS TOTALLY INAPPROPIATE. ROMNEY HAS ONE BIG NASTY STREAK.
Ha Ha Ha! The rest of the medical staff and I found this hilarious.
NO TO OSAMA, OBAMA AND CHELSEA'S MOMMA!
We couldn't agree more! GO MITT ROMNEY FOR PRESIDENT OF THE USA!!!!!!!!
Just what we need, another goof-ball in the White House with a "not my job or responsibility" attitude. I wonder what his reaction would be if another candidate posed next to a sign that said something like "Just say No to radical religious nuts, polygamists, and Mormons".
To: Posted By Ronald L. Gibson : July 23, 2007 2:39 pm
Barak Obama's middle name is Hussein, not Osama. However, the right-wing freaks will – as usual – make a big stink about nothing.
Is it a prerequisite for most GOP politicians to evade responsibility? Is it a prerequisite for most GOP politicians to come up with the weakest and lamest excuses possible in order to evade responsibility? Perhaps the idiot Lurch Romney should just quit while he's ahead. The "open mouth, insert foot" concept is obviously lost on Lurch. He's actually making Chimpy look kinda smart.
The person didn't even spell 'momma' right.
some of these conservative supporters are semi-literate at best. At least us democratic supporters can spell.
I almost feel sorry for Mr Romney having to endure the company of those people
So what??
I am with Mitt on this one lighten up! The sign was way too funny! Some people are way clever wished I would have thought of that one!
Never mind the Osama/Obama issue, I don't want a person who can't even spell "Momma" correctly to vote. It's not like it's a tough word.
Correction: Hussein, meaning "good; small handsome one", is Obama's middle name. He was given this name as a tribute to his grandfather, Hussein Onyango Obama. Hussein is a very common surname in Islamic cultures.
However light the sign appears to be, it just illustrates how stereotyping breeds ignorance.
As to the Romney posing with a sign that he allegedly didn't read, this shows his assessment of the intelligence level of his supporters who would believe that rhetoric.
PLEASE! Are you kidding me Mitt? You don't look at the signs people are holding when you have your picture taken by a reporter? Good, now we know how aware you are of your surroundings, I'm sure you'll make an excellent president. Additionally, you may want to tell some of your fellows about lightening up, because I'm about 90% certain that if Hillary or Barack were in a picture with someone holding a sign deriding Mormons, your people would be in an uproar about it, just like they were about BIG LOVE on HBO. In the future, pay attention to the world around you, that's your job as a politician, Not conceding to special interests and lining your pocket.
I'm not a Romney fan but he's right. Lighten up. Trying to use this as an "anti Romney" opportunity is rather pathetic. Complain about something real.
Two things. Re: a comment above... "Osama" is NOT Barack Obama's middle name. And, second: "Lighten up" is what a certain politican said after calling someone "macaca". Goodbye, Mitt Romney.
I see that this young lady, in addition to creating a sign more appropriate for a 7 year old's lemonade stand, doesn't even know how to spell. Bravo!
If I were Mr. Romney I would scrutinize signs before posing with them and the people who created them.
As a candidate for the highest office in the US, I expect that said candidate would read things first, let alone approving them without perusal.
surely, he jests!! is really saying he is not responsible for the big grin on his face either. did he snuggle up behind this woman grinned like a chichire cat and had his picture take. I guess he would have done the same if she had a t-shirt on that said Mormons are asses!!
such a hypocrite and a liar, but wait he is a religious man, he is on track.
OK, a couple of questions for CNN:
1) Why are you misquoting the sign, in a way that changes the obvious intended meaning? The sign-maker is referring to only two people – no comma – and trying to tar Obama with his middle name (wow, and to tar Clinton with Chelsea?)
2) Why are you not showing the other picture, in which Romney is actually holding the sign himself? It helps put the lie to the quote you used about not looking at it – as another commenter pointed out, he is not that stupid. (Maybe he doesn't look at signs he's near, but to actually hold it up proudly? Puh-leeze!)
All in all, a stupid little controversy. But, CNN should at least report on it correctly!
As a presidential hopeful and flip flopper on various issues, you should be watching out for your image as to where you place yourself. If another candidate did this or responded the way you did..you would attack rather than defend.
To Ronald L. Gibson:
Osama is NOT Obama's middle name. Hussein is his middle name. Barrack Hussein Obama.
Think for yourself. Check the fact. Don't just be a mouth piece for other people's agenda.
Oh please. If the sign had a swastika or racial slurs on it you can be sure the sign wouldn't appear within a mile of wherever he happened to be.
BD makes the best point above: either he knew full well what the sign said, or he's got terrible observational skills...as does his staff.
Mr. Romney's reaction is exactly what I'd expect from the current President Bush in a situation like this.
So how far doesn't he look at other people's signs? Are we suppose to lighten up when he hugs someone holding a sign that says, "Death to America"?
Obama's middle name is Osama! Why would this be offensive.
Linda (Chandler), thanks for reminding me/us that "Osama" is not Obama's middle name. It didn't seem right, but I was in a rush.
Good to know mitt romney supporters can spell so well.
Romney was an absent governor who was gold-digging his way to the White House! His comment that he didn't really know what the sign said is disingenuous. In Mitt's words "get over it", meaning get over the presidential race...get out of the race. You aren't fit to be president with your bias and discriminatory history.
Politicans are supposed to have people working for them to look out for stuff like this. IMHO, his handlers failed and Romney has to take the fire.
Silly sign should never have gotten past the people who work for Rommey.
Just another "Mission Accomplished"
For the goof who in his comment claims Obama's middle name is Osama, wrong! The Senator's full name is Barack Hussein Obama. Unfortunately, there is no knowledge test to vote. That is how we ended up with the mess we are in today.
Totally creative – Fantastic sign. Like a great headline...which all of us can understand. Better than most things that have come out of the mouths of critics.
How many photos do you think a presidential candidate is in per day? Maybe a hundred or so? Multiply that by weeks, months, and now, years in a campaign. Oh ya, he is suppose to look at every shirt, sign, or button first. Get real.
Lighten up? This coming from the party who thought a sexual act is an impeachable offense. And the lady didn't even get the name rights. Uneducated for the win!
There is another picture taken at the same location with Romney HOLDING THE OBAMA/OSAMA SIGN. Why don't you show that one? Does Romney deny reading a sign that he actually held up himself? Is it OK for a presidential candidate to compare an opponent to a mass-murder terrorist?
So he thinks it is just a joke huh? I wonder whtat the gop would have said if it would have been a demcrat under a sign with cheney, bush and osam on one sign linking them?
Gee whiz. If he hadn't been HOLDING the sign with that cat-that-ate-the-canary grin on his face I might have bought this organic fertilizer.
Come on, CNN. Show the other pictures.
For the record Barack's middle name is Hussein, not Osama- the poster is refrencing the terrorist Osama Bin Laden in addition to Hillary Clinton. While it is a clever poster, I wonder why the woman who made it feels like the other two candidates should be grouped with a terrorist? That's the problem with it. Romney probably lyrically funny although he does have a responsibility to steer clear of improper propaganda but this is one that all of us BARACK supporters will take with a grain of salt!
BARACK OBAMA FOR PRESIDENT!
the forgot to add "say no to Mormons"
I'm from Utah, Mitt's LDS home state, and I think he is an embarrassment.
Since when do we compare our poiticians to terrorists...oh, that's right. I think the Bush adminstration started that trend. I think a vote for Mitt would be a vote for more of the shame, I mean same.
Oh come on people! I've seen a lot worse signs, especially vulgar ones, from democrat supporters!! Nobody is claiming that the sign isn't exaggerating things a bit, and we know that people from both sides of the aisle rely on some exaggeration to make their point.
Mitt, If you can't take responsiblity for something like this before you are elected – what will you not take responsiblity for AFTER your elected. To tell us to "Lighten Up" is the same as "Read My Lips" or any of the other lies we have been told by The White House.
Romney supporters are a radical bunch that will make George Bush look tame.
You all obviously missed the other photograph of him actually holding up the sign. The picture on cnn where he was standing behind the sign isn't the only picture. You can see the one where he is holding the sign at tmz.com
I'm guessing the people that complain about Romney possibly lieing about looking at the sign are the same exact people that defend Bill Clinton and his little white pergury to congress.
Grow up.
If this "dirt" is the best liberals can come up with, Mitt is a shoo in for '08.
Shape-shifter Mitt first response is to say the sign he held up was just a meaningless rhyme scheme; then he says he didn't look at the sign he held up; then he autographs a picture of himself holding up the sign; then he says again he wasn't paying attention & it's no big deal. This clown needs some better handlers.
Hmm, would Romney say it's just a joke if another candidate took a picture next to a sign that insulted him? I think not! He would be crying about every minute he was in front of a camera. Romney is an arrogant hypocrite pander. Truly God-fearing Americans can see through these mean spirited acts. These baby boomers need to wake up! Go Obama!
This would/should be a total non-story except for the fact that Romney went out of his way to claim ignorance of the sign. I've got no love for Romney, but I wish all of these campaigns would lighten up as he suggested–this incident is hardly worth anyone getting worked up about. (In fact, my guess is Sen. Obama has enough of a sense of humor to have gotten a private chuckle out of it.) However, don't treat us like idiots and try to convince you didn't see the sign. I want leadership, integrity and the like from my politicians just like everyone else, but mostly I want them not to assume I am a moron.
You are right, romney. You are a politician. You are not responsible for your publice image. You've a team of go-fers to do that for you.
1. Romney is correct–we all should be able to lighten up about things a bit more. And I do agree that sometimes lots of politicians will miss connections (for instance, Bill Clinton wearing the "Rudy" baseball cap in the NY election).
2. Romney is also wrong when he says that he has no control over the sign, what people say. That's like George Bush standing next to the SC politician in front of cameras as this guy lied about John McCain. Even if Romney was clueless about the sign, his presence (and posing for a picture) turns a silly little sign and gives it exposure. And whether he intends to, by posing next to it, it implies he agrees with it. So he can take it lightly but also say "obviously I don't agree with innuendo of the sign."
3. And it's disingenuous for some republican supporters to argue it's just a cute little rhyme. Right. There have already been lies spread about Obama and having been endoctrinated at a Madrassa. Some Republicans have tried to take a war and use it as a political tool ("Osama Bin Laden wants Democrats elected" etc.) and this sign feeds into that.
A sign held by a democratic supporter that said something like "say no to Romney, Polygamy and our Presidential mental pygmy" would be silly but be almost as bad in my mind b/c by innuendo, it tries to make an issue of Romney's religion and outdated and offensive stereotypes about it.
I think he is right, "Lighten up"
Seriously, people need to lighten up. That poster is based on a joke about a Marine.
MITT in 2008!
The Repugs have done such a great job of capturing Osama. I'm sure this is just the tip of the iceberg in sleaze from them. This is following the SWIFTBOAT lies we put up with the last election. Hope we have enough intelligent people voting in 2008 that will not pay attention to lies!
Now everybody knows he does not always tell the truth. He just had to show us he's just like most other politicians.
No, no, no, you've got it wrong . . . there's nothing on that sign about Hilary. The sign-bearer is obviously disturbed by MOMA - New York's Museum of Modern Art - and clearly a fan of Caravaggio over Cubism.
Only problem: MOMA is considerably north of New York's Chelsea neighborhood, which is down in the 20s. One can't expect New Hampshire voters to have that detailed a knowledge of New York georgraphy.
my my myyyyyy Im thinking that Mitt Romney must be becoming quite a threat if this is what they have to pick on him about. Seriously do you think he takes the time to read all the signs while he's campaigning? Granted the woman that made the sign is immature but that is no reason to punish Mr. Romney
To Voln – "lieing" ??? wow. yes, he's lying. Leave Bill out of it. That isn't the issue here.
Who cares about his posing with the sign. Romney used his Mormon religion to block the Native Americans in Massachusetts from having a casino. I'd be more concerned about a President who lets his religion interfere with running the country ...like the incumbent
For those who find this funny and entertaining are probably Romney or a rebup supporter...so lets turn the table for a moment – If it was Obama or Hillary standing next to one of their supporters holding a similar sign bashing a repub candidate it wouldn't be as funny or entertaining right?-Right! And lets not forget the monkeys over at FOX News, they would have a week long field day if such a story happened.
Actaully CNN didn't even correctly quote the sign they have a photo of! It's "No to Obama Osama..."
It figures that she couldn't even spell "momma". Or perhaps she was referring to the Museum of Modern Art. Having Barack's name linked to Bin Laden is no better than having W's name hooked up with Hitler. It's an outrage, pure and simple. This may be the first of Mitt's "macacca moments".
Every politician I've ever known can read a name tag or spot a friendly or unfriendly face from at least 100 yards away. They notice everything. Successful businessmen also notice everything. Mitt thought he wouldn't be called out on this pandering in code to the most base of the republican base.
First of all, I did not know that Chelsea owned The MOMA (The Museum of Modern Art). Secondly, why would someone say No to the MOMA? Is this woman, and Mister Romney by default, against having a Museum of Modern Art?
People...she spelled "Moma" to make it work in the alliterative sense. She didn't "misspell it.
That being said, for all of you posters defending it, why, exactly, is it so "clever"? I mean, maybe if you listen to Rush and the others, where a person's NAME seems to matter (something I haven't witnessed since high school elections), you find this somehow to be cute or...? I really don't get it?
And, for what it's worth, Mr. Romney, as a citizen of this country, I think that I will decide what I think is offensive or not. Not YOU.
Interesting the rhetoric coming from the Romney opposition. These are problably thought the Hitler/Bush comparisons on the Moveon.org website were "right on".
So, who started it first?? I've been hearing Hitler/"insert GOP candidate name here" for YEARS now.....
Does it make it right...no.
Is this a reason to publicly flog him?? ABSOLUTELY NOT!!
We've seen worse things than this that should be making headlines. This is just an attempt by his opponents to try and start something to distract you from the real political dialogue.
NOTHING TO SEE HERE, MOVE ALONG!!
Barack's Wiki entry
Also, I'm a member of the LDS faith and would like to say that I find a lot of comments that have been made to be pretty funny.
Democrat commentators that forget the fact that they supported Bill Clinton. ALSO the fact that every president as far back as I can remember (Carter administration) has had lies they had to cover up. I believe Romney to be about the most honest of the candidates that we have to choose from.
OK, then: No to Cheney, Romney, and Giuliani.
I want to pound my head into the wall due to the amount of attention this is receiving along with his dog kennel incident.
Not a Romney supporter, but if this is all you can find on the guy then he must be clean. For those that are upset over THIS ISSUE, just remember we have a lot bigger things to tackle as a nation.
Wait a while, you'll see Romney flip-flop on this, too.
romneys right just lighten up. all of you are almost awstruck by the incedent he didnt hold a sign himself. it appears dems these days are looking for almost anything to bash political figures its sad which is why we look so pathedic.
So let me get this right...
Romney says Yes to posing with signs he can't be asked to read...but he says No way Jose!' to chocolate and diet coke?!?
Isn't it a bit rich for a devout Mormon to tell someone to lighten up?
No Coca Cola or Hershey chocolate? Surely this man is no patriot.
Please do not put Romney (his name is Mitt – isn't that something you Yanks use to catch balls?) in charge of anything! (maybe...maybe ball-catching.)
Your friend in Britain,
Dom
What is all the hype over? The last time I looked, this was still America. If someone wants to make a sign like this, so be it. Stop trying to make everything into a political thing. The same ones criticizing Romney are the ones that would find it alright if their candidate had done the same thing.
This guy is down to earth. You just have to like hime.
Will Mitt revise his position on t-shirt slogans tomorrow? Stay tuned.
I didn't know Chelsea had a Museum of Modern Art (MoMA). I knew management consultants made big bucks, but really...
Tony
I agree with Mitt. Everyone needs to lighten up already. Which part of the sign do you disagree with? It seems to me that we should say no to terrorism (Osama) as well as those who would raise our taxes, support killing unborn babies (Obama & Billary), etc. Maybe they shouldn't be on the same sign so that we don't offend the left but we should say "no" to both....
If CNN had used the other photo that clearly shows a smiling Mitt looking at the content of the sign, CNN would have to rewrite this article. He is shown to be responsible for the sign there.
Mitt said, "I don’t look at all the signs...” And this guy is running for president???? I would think after the last six years, America would want someone who is actually paying attention to their surroundings.
Momma, not MOMA. Duh!
No, we need not "lighten up". If a candidate cannot distinguish terrorism from political free speech, we do not need that candidate.
Truthfully, I don't know much about Romney, but Cudos to his response on this issue. It's nice to see someone resist backtracking and apologizing for something that is blown out of proportion.
Is Mitt kidding? So I take that to mean he is generally unconcerned with his message. I expect much more from my President.
Moronic boob. If he doesn't read "every sign," then he needs to fire his publicity agents, because that's THEIR job, to keep him from making a fool of himself. Oh wait, too late. You're on minute 14, Mr. Romney.
Chelsea has a Moma?! So sad, I always thought she was healthy...
I agree... lighten up a bit. I'm a Democrat, and I don't find the sign offensive. It's akin to a sign at a baseball or football game, in which people just use their imagination to rhyme. I don't think that Romney (or his sign-toting supporter) are really trying to say that Obama or Hilary are like Osama Bin Laden... it just rhymes.
"I'm not responsible for all the signs I see" so he did see the sign...i thought he said he doesn't look at all of them...
Ignorance abounds in the US,
and Romney like republicans in the past
like to wheel their dog and pony shows right up to it cause that's where
they feel comfortable–in the land
of ignorance.
He is responsible for having his picture taken with that particular sign ,he should have read the sign first
Oh Boy !! Another "Uniter but not a divider" for President.
I'm a Dem, but if this is Osama's middle name, then it is fair game. Romney might have looked better by mentioning this instead of telling people to "lighten up." We are in the middle of terrorist war with Osama Bin Laden at-large, that's nothing to lighten up about.
If she's referring to the new MoMA it's in Soho, not Chelsea.
This is America – any idiot has the right make and display a silly sign (misspelled though it may be) but it is irresponsible and disrespectful for Romney to pose with a sign equating a US Senator to the creep who planned the massacre of thousands of US citizens – shame on you Romney.
Anyone that thinks that sign is funny, needs to get out and expand their sense of humor a bit... go out on the town and see a comedian. The sign is too lame to be offensive.
I'll lighten up when Mr. Romney becomes less superficial. This is obsurd and insulting behavior.
Moma?? Looks like another argument for the "No Childless Attitude Left Behind Program".
Get over yourselves. It's politics. I say lighten up too. Good grief people. How old are you anyway?
Hey, CNN, why don't you post the photo of him HOLDING the sign, and then have him say "I didn't read it." What a dunce. No wonder the favorite Republican candidate is "none of the above.
"Me" in Dallas proves a previously stated observation: some of these conservative supporters are semi-literate at best.
Qutoing "Me": "who cares what the sign say….and maybe is correct…at least for sure it is very amusing"
Why is it that 90% of the folks that are GOP supporters are morons who can't spell?
The sign says more about Romney's supporters than it does about him: Unintelligent, ignorant and pathetic!
America is wide awake now, and we have no intention of letting those loser back in the White House again.
Keep smilin' Mitt.
Yes – let's all impale the poor woman for exercising her free speech Jonnie Cochran style!
Has your life become so trivial that you're howling about THIS picture of Mitt with a supporter?
Which is worse... a spelling error or this pitch-and-fork mob mentality?
So Romney says "I don't look at all the signs..." What if the the first word in the sign was "death" instead of "no?" Would he still say "lighten up"? I would think that someone with a modicum of intelligence would look at the sign before having their picture taken with it.
I like the sign! CNN just does not like Mitt Romney and its really showing that you want Clinton in the White House.
Clinton "I didn't inhale"
Romney "I didn't read the sign"
Well, seems the Republicans are more like Democrats then they are willing to admit. I'd expect a president whose observational skills are much better then this, so long Mitt!!
Poor Mitt. He hasn't got time to check on what message he's sending to the potential voters. Could it be "I'm too busy to do the right thing?" or just "I'm Mitt Romney, and I approved this message." Unfortunately the message I'm getting is "I'm too silly to be useful" and I suspect that's the one everyone else is getting too. Save yourself, Mitt. Go home before that macaca guy shows up with a sign.
Who cares? Lighten up and get a life...I really dont think this is as big a deal as some of you are making it out to be.
So if you didn't like flip-floppers four years ago, and you like a flip-flopper now, does that make you a flip-flopper?
Maybe he can't read!
Please its okie for them to make Obama Girl skits and Ruddy Girl ones but a Romney fan makes a sign and everyone is in an uproar. I personally dont care for the guy but like he said "lighten up a little" its a joke! This si the prob with this country today.
For all of you who are in some way offended by the sign in question, please take a course in remedial logic. The sign is meant to express opposition to three individuals: Barack Obama, Osama Bin Laden, and Hillary Clinton. Mitt Romney, his supporters, and nearly all core Republican are opposed to these three individuals (for different reasons in each case). You, the reader, make a logical blunder if you assume that the sign equates these three individuals or compares them to each other. The sign simply lists three individuals whom Republicans oppose. Where is the offense in that?
And the "Beat Goes On"! Here is Romney holding the sign and he LIES OUTRIGHT that he doesn't read these signs that "someone else holds up" hold up!
Good thing it only said such insensitive and unconscionable words about Barack Obama and not about Bush! God forbid he be labeled a traitor or worse! This guy Romney would actually be able to fit right into ole Georges’ shoes and never miss a beat! Good buy Constitution!
CNN can't even quote correctly from a picture. Journalism: moving faster than the speed of intelligent thought.
Liberals need to SHUT UP!
That is a total disrespect to Mr. Barack Obama.
To be compare by any means with that animal, is unacceptable, and she needs to apoligize to Mr.Barack Obama.
Suze Louis-Jean,
NYC
Maybe Mr. Romney does not have time to read all the signs people bring to the rallys but how does he know they are not saying something "LIKE THAT ABOUT HIM!!!'. I had liked some his views a weeks ago when I heard an interview he did somewhere but now I am running back to Mr. Obama AGAIN!!!!
This is why Clinton is beating Romney in the polls
I don’t care what the sign says, but it does hold a hidden message. Because the American electorate (as a whole) is uneducated about politics, a man with a name Barack Hussein Obama on a ballot will lose votes because of the similarity to both the names Osama Bin Laden and Saddam Hussein. Two people whom Americans hate.
Dominique,
Get your facts straight. Neither of those claims are true.
Finally! A man who does not follow the "apology" epidemic! Kudos to Romney – that’s how a real man should behave!
I'm a Mormon and I enjoy my diet coke and Hersheys... If this is what you were taught I would question anything else you were taught or anything you "think" you might know about Mormons...
"So let me get this right…
Romney says Yes to posing with signs he can’t be asked to read…but he says No way Jose!‘ to chocolate and diet coke?!?
Isn’t it a bit rich for a devout Mormon to tell someone to lighten up?
No Coca Cola or Hershey chocolate? Surely this man is no patriot.
Please do not put Romney (his name is Mitt – isn’t that something you Yanks use to catch balls?) in charge of anything! (maybe…maybe ball-catching.)
Your friend in Britain,
Dom
Posted By Dominique : July 23, 2007 3:53 pm"
We don't need another mentally challenged president!
Mitt should rethink his comment about his thoughts on not caring what's on the signs before he poses. He should be careful about not taking responsibility....after all we are tired of the current climate of noone being responsible in D.C.! He just lost my vote. The last thing I want to hear is "I'm not responsible for....you fill in the blank. Same old same old....
Rob,
If you are going to roast someone for their spelling, at least you could check your own!!
Here's what YOU said:
“Me” in Dallas proves a previously stated observation: some of these conservative supporters are semi-literate at best.
Qutoing “Me”: “who cares what the sign say….and maybe is correct…at least for sure it is very amusing”
Why is it that 90% of the folks that are GOP supporters are morons who can’t spell?
Posted By Rob
I don't profess to be the best speller, so I don't criticize other's spelling. But since you did...you will be criticized!!
If 90% of the GOP supporters can't spell, then neither can 90% of the Dems!!
The message in the sign reveals narrow and shallow thinking.
Mr. Mitt Romney's comment reveals that he is either unobservant or lying; and his holding and posing with it shows poor form – really poor judgment.
WE THE PEOPLE of the United States and the world deserve better in a Presidential candidate, and ultimately President of the United States.
ONE more time – I really wish people who post would read at least some of the previous comments before posting.
1. Osama is not Obama's middle name. Which right wingnut told you that one?
2. The woman did not misspell Moma – she is spelling it that way to make a supposedly clever alliteration – though she should have used Mama.
And now for a new point:
3. Those of you trying to compare this with leftists who have often had signs equating Bush to Hitler et al, let's get this straight! There is a BIG DIFFERENCE between some random people holding signs making these onerous comparisons and an official candidate running for President of the United States doing it. Yes, there is free speech. But to hold the sign and pose with the sign assumes you AGREE or ENDORSE the sentiments expressed on the sign! Jeesh! How hard is that to understand?
4. And for those who like to point to the Move On incident in '04 where a citizen (NOT anyone affiliated in any way with the party or a candidate) posted a submission for a 30 second ad contest which equated Bush to Hitler, which was PULLED by Move On within about 24 hours, I would suggest you look in the mirror. Or do you not remember that for at least a few hours, on the OFFICIAL GOP website, on the FRONT Page, was a video which juxtaposed footage of speeches by Democrats with film footage of speeches by Nazis. Uh...random poster to an un-affiliated website vs. official posting on official party website. Hmmm... slight difference, here? Yeah, you choose not to remember that. Facts and context mean nothing to you.
A man of integrity, and even a modicum of political smarts, would have chuckled maybe (if he had such an infantile sense of humor) and then politely told the woman that he couldn't really be seen with that.
It would not have taken a rocket scientist.
OK, one more thing: I'd just like to say that although I'm voting Democrat, I'd be lethally unhappy with any Dem candidate who pulled out a sign like that. What the sign implies is despite for Obama because of his race, and an unwillingness to allow the black man to participate in democracy, plus equating opposition candidates with terrorism. I don't expect to see Obama posing next to a sign saying BUSH BOMBED OTC either. Bet a nickel that sign was a trap and he walked right in . .
I am a Democrat but I supported Mitt Romney until this abominable act. It disgusts me that politicians have to stoop to a level of three year-olds by calling each other names to win an election. It amazes me that Romney can lie like he did to the American people, his consituents, about not spending "all that much time looking at the signs and the T-shirts and the buttons. I don't have anything to say about a sign somebody else was holding."
Right Romney. And lighten up about your flip-flopping ways to secure elective office that are obvious insults to your religion. And speaking of religion, from one mormon to another - you have a long way to go baby to convince others that mormon's are segregationists, racist and view women as stay-at-home baby production machines to secure all the men the ultimate highest kingdom. Convince us that mormon's don't believe that and you'll never have a mormon voting for you. Lighten up and stay home.
I'm certainly no fan of Mitt Romney,
but he is right. Some of you people need to get a life. Aren't there more substantive concerns than this?
I must not be reading into the sign as much as everyone else; I recall the GOP not liking Bin Laden along with its Democratic competitors last time I checked. I think its cute to make it rhyme. What's the problem?
Oh boy. Another President that doesn't take responsibility. "I'm not responsible for standing next to racist signs." Ah...yes, you need to be more careful Mitt and not promote ignorance and hatred. This is just what we need. 8 more years of the same old same old.
Correction, Osama is Obama’s middle name. Nothing to do with Bin Laden
Posted By Ronald L. Gibson : July 23, 2007 2:39 pm
Mr. Gibson,
Just for the record, Barack Obama's middle name is 'Hussein'.
I think it is a great sign. CNN just has one thing in mind to - help Chelsea's Moma get to the White House.
It's just sour grapes that the sign was not detrimental to President Bush. Cnn just can't stand the truth about Hill.
Does America want a real innovator, one who can solve problems and do the country proud as Mitt Romney would do or do they want a President who just screeches and is unaware of her and the countries problems? If she didn’t know Bill was dilly dallying with Monica –how can she believe she has the ability and know how to run the Country. The wife should always be the first to know.
so does this mean romney would stand next to a sign that reads "long live the taliban!"? of course not. he reads every sign he stands by and implicitly accepts the message.
Don't worry, Mitt will change his position by tomorrow.
Pure ignorance (both of them) is all I can say! The owner of the poster needs to learn how to spell too! Romney knows darn well that he read that sign before he took the pics!!! A GOP presidential "HOPEFUL" is what he'll continue to be, because I would NEVER vote for him!! Who is he anyway? I've never heard of him!!!
I am vaguely concerned about the sign, but only vaguely.
I am incredibly concerned by the sheer number of previous commenters who think Obama's middle name is Osama. What are you saying, that all names associated in any way with Islam are equivalent? They all look the same to you? Barack HUSSEIN Obama is named after his grandfather.
And, frankly, the notion that he doesn't and shouldn't read the signs is ludicrous. Would he stand in a picture with a supporter that says, "I support Romney but hate all other Mormons?" What about one that said "Keep America White?" You better believe he wouldn't - his handlers wouldn't let him.
So we can debate the merits of the sign, whether it was offensive or just a joke, etc. But let's not kid ourselves that this is a question of whether or not he read it. He did. He should stand behind (no pun intended) his own actions.
Goodbye Constitution??? Are you kidding?? I bet you support Al Sharpton dont you.
Bush * Chenney 08
"For a Better America"
Whether Romney knew what the sign said at the time of the photo is not at issue. Finding out what the sign said, and then telling others to "lighten up" is the real issue. We are responsible, whether we want to accept the responsibility or not, for the actions of those we affiliate ourselves with. Most especially when on a campaign.
On a side note–as a former Mormon, I believe Romney is the WORST possible candidate for this country's presidency. A political foundation based on such an oft-times twisted philosophy should be looked at under a microscope. You can be sure that Mormon ideology will be used to run this country, and that is damned frightening. And although at first glance Romney would fit in with the Right Wing stance, it will all change after an oath is sworn in January 2009.
And you can spell it Moma, Momma, Mama, Mamma....
Come on, people, stop being dense. CNN did show the second picture. Click on the word photograph that is in blue under the picture on the story! sheesh
hey Romney – I would suggest you start paying a little more attention to the three foot signs someone is holding in your picture. You didn't notice what was on the 3 foot sign? Cmon. Now you're lying. It is clearly in poor taste, and I think it tells us a little something about your tastes.
One would think that a presidential hopeful, knowing his every move and remark will be scrutinized, would have enough sense to read a sign before being photographed with it. What an idiot! I'm just an ordinary citizen, but even I would assume that if I pose for a picture holding a sign, especially with a big cheesy grin on my face, people would assume I'm in aggremant with what the sign says. Romney became somewhat less than human in my eyes after the story about his poor dog came out. Even worse, his comment that the dog actually enjoyed it. Loser.
I'm surprised about the uproar. Does anybody remember Hollywood during the debate in 2004 with those tasteless jokes about president Bush? I didn't think so. Lighten up.
So he had his picture taken WITH the sign and he didn't read it??!! Do we really want another president who ignores reality, even when it's right in the palm of his hand? Isn't that what King George did with the August 6, 2001 Presidential Daily Brief titled "Bin Laden Determined To Strike In US?
This is typical of the asleep-at-the-wheel Republican Party- and it's members. This guy (and the chick in the photo) are scary.
OMG... how is this news... its clearly a joke... Im a supporter of Barack and all this shows me is Romney has a sense of humor... I wish folks would just take it easy... the media really knows how to start mess dont they.
WOW! That woman is not very bright or she is taking lessons from Karl Rove in manipulation. Neither Chelsea's mama nor Obama is responsible for the fact that a very tall man on kidney dialysis is still a free roaming Pakistan.
Anyone with half of a brain needs to look no further than 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue for the real reason Bin Laden has not been captured. I really hope the american public is not so uninformed to believe a sign that flip-flop Romney is so boastfully posing with.
There is not a comma in the sign between Obama and Osama. By including it, the article ignores the fact conservative bloggers and talk radio constantly refer to Senator Obama as "Osama Obama," as though it were his hyphenated first name. Its a puerile smear campaign and desperate attempt for a 2nd tier Repub to get national attention.
The only bad joke around here is Mitt's presidential bid. He supports gay marriage, he's against gay marriage. He's for gun control, he's against gun control. He's for universal health care, he's against universal health care.
This guy's a complete clown.
The sign is just a sign of immaturity, not a national stance... I agree, lighten up.
Since voters aren't going to vote a cult member into the White House anyhow, focus on more substantial issues.
Isn't this same guy who played the bigotry card earlier in the year against Sharpton? A rose by any other name, Mr. Romney...
This, coming from a Presidential candidate? That is incredibly poor taste. What was he thinking?
Here we go again with the thin skinned Americans crying for an apology. Neither party is worth the powder it would take to blow them up ! Will we see change in my liftime...doubt it. But I predict that if we elect a Democrat, in less than six months terrorism will be on our soil. Obviously that is what the sign maker was thinking. Mitt Romney is so typical by replying he does not read the signs, come on have some courage,say what the sign imples. The muslims of the world not just Al Qaeda are praying for a Democratic leader so we can all sit around and blame our policies for their hate and terrorism.
Baloney !!! No one in my lifetime has figured out what to do in the middle east, wait, since the begining of time !
Iran the only democracy in the region has an elected leader that neither party will join at the table. Some elected official in this country must stand up and declare we are really in WAR not a volunteer army trying to police multiple packs of animals. Until Americans have the stomach to level every where that Al qaeda exist with bombs were just in another chapter of failure.
The media makes a story out of a stupid sign why don't they report on how many Jewish Americans will ditch the Democrates if they elect a Muslim. Come on report with courage ! Not worrying about someone asking for an apology
THis made the news? Lighten up CNN. Romney is the man!
In response to
Correction, Osama is Obama’s middle name. Nothing to do with Bin Laden
Posted By Ronald L. Gibson : July 23, 2007 2:39 pm
Actually Obama's middle name is Hussein.
Anyway, Romney's excuse is a cop out. It's like saying "I signed the papers but I didn't look at what I was signing." He should take responsibility for his mistake and not try to blame it on others.
I agree 100% lighten up for crying out loud. There are much worse thing going on in our world to worry about dumb stuff like that.
I suggest he take time to read signs and take them seriously if he wants to win this election. I don't care if he's Democrat or Republican. People remember things like this, and it will definitely hurt him come election time. This election is meant to be taken seriously.
Mitt signed a copy of the picture before the event. Then during the event he runs from it. This is typical of the right. They will capitalize on the Limbaugh/Hannity type rhetoric when it benefits them, but then they try to keep a statesmanly image when the cameras are rolling. Well, the cameras are always rolling nowadays and we're getting a good look at the "Macacca" spewing type of Republicans.
Aside from the fact that Mitt is better looking than the rest of the pack in the republican side and he is the only one in the top tier of the GOP that has been married only once, he's just a joke.... you want a serious man vote for RON PAUL!!!!
If you can't trust him to know what he's posing with......how can you trust him to know what he's doing running the largest "free" country in the world?
What does Lou Dobbs think?
This past weekend, I heard Mr. Dobbs
misstate a comment by Sen Obama with
regard to genocide. Mr. Dobbs left
critical portions of the comment out
and I question his intent in doing so.
The fact that many of the people commenting on this story think that Barack Hussein Obama's middle name is Osama speaks for itself.
Six and a half years of Bush, Rove and Faux News have lead America to this: lighten up, no big deal, arguing with incorrect facts(lies) as if they were truth.
Way to go repugs. By the way Moma is spelled Momma, or at least it was until this alternative Bush world came into being.
Great campaign move if you ask me, negative publicity spreads faster than wild fire and in the end ... what will be remembered is Romney for pres ... not Romney supports people who compare Obama to Osama. This just shows how shallow our presidential campaigns are and that real issues ... like farm conservation measures, global warming, and insurance are going under the radar.
How dare they...It's their party who went after Sadam instead of the real culprit Osama. Now they want to do what mid to lower class White Americans do, name call and slander. As far as I'm concerned we can do without more racism in the White House. We've had far to much of that as it is.
I guess if it's okay for Fox News to run a Osama/Obama "typo" then it's cool for some mouth-breathing inbred Romney supporter who can't spell "mama" to stand there like an idiot holding that sign. To expect Romney to pay attention to what a sign says before he poses with it is too much to ask of a short-sighted fool who thinks that we need to build more Gitmos so we can keep torturing people to win the "war" on terrorism. This guy is never going to win an election and Obama could bury him in a debate any day.
Last time I checked ... Obama's middle name is Hussein.
The real story is that CNN decided to make this a story.
Running every 30 minutes, or so...
Oh yeah, and the Democrats are debating on CNN today. And the lady holding the sign is probably a republican operative.
Maybe is the peroxide she uses on her hair that it’s leaking into her head but she can not spell at all. What its Mitt’s excuse again? What? We forgot about MACACA this soon? What the hell happened to the GOP? Everyday Hillary looks better and better. These GOP pack of clowns are just paving her way into the Whitehouse... great job guys!!!
well he is certainly living up to the expectations of the current administration. Let's not take responsibility for anything or read the contract before we sign. what a crock. I don't think that we as Americans are quite that bull headed to buy into that.
Here a sign for Romney:
NO TO ROMNEY
POLITICAL SODOMY
AND CORPORATE CRIME ECONOMY
I wish someone would ask Mitt Romney how his church feels about Blacks. As a former Mormon, I know they believe that blacks were not as brave and courageous as whites were in heaven. Yes, it is ridiculous. Apparently, God made them black because it was their curse for not being strong against Satan. It was in the early 1970's when blacks were able to hold the priesthood in the Mormon church. And to think this guy could be our president.
Debbie Pakzaban
He's just one of many brainless conservative candidates in the election, what would you expect?
I can't believe everyone is making such a big deal out of this. Get a life....
I know the silliness in this thread is about Barack Obama's middle name. Just adding a new dimension–
Mitt Romney: Full name Willard Mitt Romney
(Father's name: George W. Romney)
It'd be nice to see journalism that doesn't include "obvious" personal insertions. I thought reporting meant telling the facts, not one's own opinion.
Remember when John McCain told people to "Get a life?" Look where his campaign is now. Just look, though, because he won't talk about it–his campaign, that is.
I think the tires in Romney's campaign just deflated a little bit more. Kudos. We get to see what a real jerk this guy is BEFORE the elections.
Didn't Ted Kennedy refer to Obama as Osama once too?
It's really nice to see everyone focusing on the real issues that will actually effect all of us regarding our potential future President....oh wait.
DOES THAT MEAN AS PRESIDENT, ROMNEY WOULD NOT READ ALL THE BILLS HE SIGNS AS LONG AS HE GETS HIS PICTURE TAKEN?
What's wrong? Truth hurts? Can't take a joke? Please... Give me a break... What's his name anyhow? Hussein Burak Osama Obama? or Hussein Burak Osama, or Hussein Burak Obama? Is it really Burak Obama? What is his middle name, or is Burak his middle name? When is Al Gore going to get in the race? He would actually have a fighting chance and would be a valid candiate with substantial support.
Mitt Romney should be ashamed of himself, not for seemingly agreeing with the poster, but for that weak line about not knowing what was written on the poster. Does he really expect folks to buy that story? I'd have more respect for Mitt Romney if he'd simply owned up to the position that he was taking.
As an individual seeking the highest political position in this country and the most important person in the world in my peoples eyes. The future President of the United States has to be aware of his/her surrounding at all times.
maybe he should read what he is representing in those pics. After all its HIS reputation !
Seriously who cares?? It's just a sign, and it's funny. Lighten up.
“I have a lot of pictures taken with people," Romney also said. “I don’t really spend all that much time looking at the signs and the T-shirts and the buttons. I don’t have anything to say about a sign somebody else was holding.”
Hey CNN: How about showing the "other" picture where Romney IS actually holding the sign up himself instead of the one where he's just standing next to the sign while the woman is holding it? Think you could actually muster that?
(http://myglobalsearch.tmz.com/2007/07/21/mitt-catches-s-t-over-hillary-bashing-sign/)
The sign is written in bright red on a white background. How does he not see the sign again?
How nice! CNN just happened to leave out the photo of Romney HOLDING THE SIGN. Ridiculous.
Maybe Mitt can pose next to a sign that says:
No to driving across country (or part of) with a dog on the roof
I'm not a Romney supporter, but I do agree with him this time. Lighten up. Not every statement that comes from a candidate has to be totally serious and planned not to offend a single person in the world. People are human and make jokes. If your poor little candidate can't take a little poetic joke like this one, he/she won't stand a chance once the campaigns really get fired up and the mud starts flying for real. Save your ammo and pace yourselves. There is a long way to go.
No wonder this country is in so much trouble. I am constantly amazed that anyone with half a brain would want to be President. There are bigger issues to tackle and critizing someone for something like this is simply dumb!
I want to know Why does media continuously put Obama and Clinton down? I personally think they are the strongest canidates in race; Is it because Clinton is a woman and Obama is a black man?
Great Poster!!!!!!
Why did you not post the pic of Romney holding the sign? On TMZ.com, next to the photo of him with the woman holding the sign, he picks up and holds the sign himself. Hmmm... if the sign said something derogatory about the Mormon church, I don't think he would have been next, much less held, that sign.
Yeah, lighten up! Sheesh! Besides, how do we know that someone didn't Photoshop the words onto the sign AFTER it was taken? I never believe anything I see online anymore, even from news services. There are just too many flakes who will alter something just to push their opinions.
Well,
Mitt Romney doesn't understand the first thing about image. You are associated with those to whom you keep company. If Mr. Romney can't read, he is no better than our current President who can't speak. He should get a grip and take ownership for his actions and his image; not pass them off to someone else. Of course, votes are all that counts to him.
Oh, grow up. Is this really news? The left is really reaching on this one. Hopefully Romney never makes a *real* mistake, I'd hate to see what they'd do to him then.
Good for Romney!
This tells me to not vote for Mr. Romney because if he cannot look at all the signs he poses with is he going to read all the Bills he signs.
Funniest thing I ve read today..
To the man who made a comment about the uproar Obama would cause by holding up a "No Bush, Hitler, and Mittler"...you are right. Comparing our President to a man who viciously (through racism) killed millions of other people is a little more serious than a clever pun by a young child. Get off Romney's back, and go to Digg.com where people will actually take your opinions seriously.
thanks for the reminder, mitt.
where IS osama? after all these years.
are we still trying to "schmoke 'im outta his caaave"?
and why on earth would this woman be against a museum of modern art in england?
Mitt, we understand you didn't make the sign. (Hopefully you know how to spell "Momma" correctly.) The questioner just wanted to see if you had the courage and spine to distance yourself from it. Guess he found out.
A plain and simple white male bigot who represents the new Republican Party born out of the new conservative smear and personal attack mind set. Romney and Rudy should merge forces. Disgusting people who have managed to make America and the Presidency more tarnished than ever before.
Romney's response is on the mark. Like he should really be sorry that your feelings were hurt when you saw him, passively standing their adjacent to someone else's political sign. Even if there is another photo of him holding the sign, give me a break: the circumstances are completely inconsequential and absolutely meaningless.
I wonder if he reads what he signs?
Mr. Gibson, I need to correct your correction, Obama's middle name is Hussien
So is it open season on Mitt's name too now?
"lighten up?" If I recall correctly, a staff member of the McCain campaign (when it still existed) made some comments about Romney's religion. Romney demanded an apology and got it. I guess its ok if he does it.
What I am afraid of is that the Mormon church will elect this man.
When you don't have a center of your own, when you have no fixed convictions or beliefs, when you can do what you want because you don't really exist, you can dismiss an insult in your midst because nothing means anything to you.
NO TO CHELSEA'S MOM, HAHAHA.
Hey CNN: There is no comma in the sign. It does not say No to Obama, Osama and Chelsea's Moma.
The sign is referring to Barack Obama as Osama Obama.
This may be too non-PC for CNN to report correctly.
Macaca George told everyone to lighten up too. Remember him? Yeh, I thought you would remember. HE WAS NOT RE-ELECTED! You insensitive freak. And by the way, how much do you spend on your hair?
Stupid act with stupid excuse!. Disparaging someones name with that of someone who murdered 3000 americans and going after childred of candidates is not a laughing matter so how can I lighten up? I was thinking maybe I should doctored the same picture and insert David Duke in place of the woman with the stupid sign that he's so smiley standing next to and than tell Mormon Romney to "Lighten up"!
I'm pretty sure if I turned up at a Romney rally with a big "Mittler hate the Jews" sign, you defenders would be singing another tune! Why is every single person on the Right a hypocrite?
Ronald L. Gibson incorrectly wrote: Correction, Osama is Obama’s middle name. Nothing to do with Bin Laden
Posted By Ronald L. Gibson : July 23, 2007 2:39 pm
Um, no.
His name, as many conservative pundits are happy to tell us, is Barack Hussein Obama.
"Osama" appears nowhere in his name except in the imaginations of conservatives and other critics.
That Gov. Romney would happily hold up a sign like this (CNN does not show the other photo, in which the Gov. is indeed holding the sign up higher) is indication that he might also agree with those who would compare Pres. Bush to Hitler or Pol Pot.
Or maybe it's only ok to commit such ad hominem attacks if you're a Republican...
Great. Here is another Republican presidential candidate whose excuse for neglegence is that he doesn't read everything. First, Bush didn't read the August 6 DPB, apparently because he was busy clearing brush and vactioning, now Romney doesn't read the signs of the supporters he poses with. How convenient. And dangerous. Is this someone we want in office?
Romney won't get to "not notice" signs and other things if he were to be pres. If he doesn't pay attention to this sort of thing now, no thanks. He's another Bush, just clumsy in a different sort of way. Bush can't make is mouth work and Romney can't make his eyes work. Next, we'll have a republican in the making who doesn't know how to use his/her ears either. Hum, what does this make? Monkey see, monkey speak, monkey hear?.......
Yeah, "lighten up" is a good way to blow it off but do I believe him? No. Do I hypothasize that perhaps a member of his staff saw the sign and pointed him in that direction. You bet. I quit believing in "chances like that happening" a long long time ago. Romney didn't get where he got by not noticing things.
The man from GQ reminds me too much of Bill Clinton. Both of whom make me want to barf.
Diana
Coos Bay, OR
It figures that Republicans would carry signs like that. Ever since the "Willie Horton" thing, they've been looking to demonize any black person who dares to offer political challenge, and Obama has become fair game.
At least we now know who the racist candidates are. . .
Quick – someone make a sign that says, "Smile if you're an idiot" and hand it to Romney! If he can't read signs during the campaign, what's he going to bother reading if he's president?
When did Osama bin Laden's name become a punchline? maybe mitts been watching too much Southpark; i for one don't think the man responsible for 9/11 should be invoked in a humorous manner. Romney telling people to 'lighten up' is an insult to america's intellegence and a slap in the face to everyone who died in 9/11. he should be ashamed and, if he really didn't know about the contents of the sign, angry; not flippant and obtuse.
I would never vote by what sign whomever was photographed by. I am not a Romney fan, but is anybody going to vote based on an offensive sign in one photo months before an election. Does the sign make the man? It sure points out that some people are dumb enough to not have someone smart proofread their sign.