He failed his family, why in the world he thinks he won't fail us. Minus my vote!

James Phoenix -

Since you apparently have no concept of the truth, I feel the need to address once more your pathetic attempts to smear the Clintons. Your argument is fundamentally flawed because you indicate that Bill Clinton was ACCUSED of those charges against various women. Remember that in this country we are innocent until proven guilty. He has never been convicted of raping anyone. The guilt is in your own sick mind. You have no shame and make no pretense at rational argument.

There is nothing to prove with Giuliani. He did it in front of the world for all to see, except for the likes of you. You are deaf, dumb and blind to things that you choose not to see. You are still a hypocrite and an ignoramus, nothing can change that. And you will be that for the rest of your life, because you are not interested in the truth, you are only interested in propaganda. Why don't you leave that job to Karl Rove, who is a real expert at it. You are an amateur, a wanna be, who can't really debate because you do not deal in reality and facts.

If you support the Republican party, whose platform is blatantly anti-abortion, then you and the candidates that represent that party, are the ones who are no champions of women's rights. The fundamental right of reproductive freedom for women is essential and must be preserved. Your party would take that right away.

So do me a favor and stop lecturing me about things that you know nothing about. You are the one who hasn't a shred of dignity or decency or you wouldn't keep resorting to dredging up Bill Clinton's past to try to give someone like Giuliani a pass.

"Just remember…Jesus was the most liberal of all men on earth, and showed us how to love no matter what…No a Republican trait!"

Actually Rich, you might want to re-read the Bible. Completely ignoring the old testament (where God sides with his people in war, condemns homosexuality, and creates an ultra-conservative agenda… most Christians believe Jesus = God therefore Jesus would have been the God of the old testament). But Jesus wasn't "liberal" - he was compassionate to the down-trodden. He whipped the money changers at the temple. He railed against the religious leaders. He elicited fierce loyalty (Peter cut off the ear of a soldier apprehending Jesus - but was stopped by Jesus because it was His (Jesus's) time to be taken to fulfill His destiny).

Jesus wasn't a politician nor ascribed to any political philosophy. He didn't need to - He was a King.

How can Giuliani expect America to leave his family alone? ANYONE who is in the public eye nowadays has EVERY aspect of their lives scrutinized under a microscope, what about Bush's family? America was very interested in the drinking habbits of the Bush girls, and Chelsea Clinton's life and so on and so forth. It goes with the territory. If you want to have a public job and have all the power and opportunity that come with it, you have to also accept that paople will judge you based on any and everything they can find out. Especially when you want to hold a "respectable" office.

Rudy lost my vote when I saw his cross dressing videos on YouTube! If my Dad was a drag queen I would back someone else too!

Four thoughts:
(1) Most of those who seem to think he did so great as NYC mayor live in CA? People, do not believe everything you see on TV !
(2) Does anyone else remember Andrew on the mayorial campaign? There were always Yankees games, Firedepartment visits, etc. Now grown-up Andrew gets to decide and he has obviously decided he does not want to campaign for his father. Compared to the adult children of the Bush, Clinton, Kerry, Cheney and Edwards families that is quite a departure.
(3) As many noted, divorce maybe not as big a deal anymore even for a public figure. However, he escorted Judith to public events while still married (and has acknowledged other earlier affairs). The whole divorce was bitter and ugly and he had a part in that.
(4) How a sitting US President will handle themselves in public and in private and what impression they give to the rest of the world does matter.

Andy from NY,

I am sure your entire life has been nothing but Republican Indoctrination…It is preached every Sunday…Your t.v. probably only picks up Fox News….

Just remember…Jesus was the most liberal of all men on earth, and showed us how to love no matter what…No a Republican trait!

The only interesting part of this event is that it demonstrates Giuliani's powerful command of himself and his personality. Nobody I know so far has described his abilities better than a blogger by the name of Luke Vargas, He's gone to many events and he was present during the question aswell as Giuliani's response. He states: "Without seeming rude or shaming the woman for asking him the question, Giuliani assertively rejected the advance of his personal issues into his presidential campaign. In contrast to the way the MSM has treated his response, the mayor's comments resounded in the conference room as a thoughtful and respectful response, not a stiff rebuff or rehearsed rejection of any question about his family. " (www.lukevargas.com/)

I love Rudy and will vote for him. His kids are angry and hurt over the divorce. Nothing more nothing less. They are acting out from the loss of the family. Rudy cleaned up NY, didn't take any crap from the mob, and made this Country whole after 9/11.

Adulter? I do believe Kennedy has the distinction of worst adulter elected. He practically flaunted it. Yet we act as if he was a saint.

Rudy is a good man with flaws. After all one in two marriages fail. That doesn't mean the men or women should be excluded from public office. If so, there will be no one at the helm.

I DOUBT ANY OF YOU LIBERAL DEMOCRATS BELIEVE EXACTLY WHAT YOUR PARENTS BELIEVE, SO WHY IS IT SO SURPRISING THAT A CHILD DOESN'T AGREE WITH THEIR PARENT'S POLITICAL VIEWS? PRETTY LAME. JUDGE HIM ON HIS RECORD IN PUBLIC SERVICE… HES AT THE TOP OF THIS WEAK CROWD OF PRESIDENTIAL PRETENDERS

Rudy said:

"I love my family very, very much and will do anything for them. There are complexities in every family in America," Giuliani said calmly and quietly. "The best thing I can say is kind of, 'leave my family alone, just like I'll leave your family alone."'

The policies that Giuliani is in favor of enacting would effect everyone's family in the country. The statement he made is B.S.

Lance,

Thanks for sharing your views. I believe you do sincerely want change and have made a decision to back Obama for the right reasons (your reasons).

And I can tell you - of the democrats running - he is the one I have (presently) the most respect. I think he's had a couple of stumbles on the campaign that the others have tried to exploit - but I do see him as a genuine person, less slimy than the usual suspects we get to chose from.

I wish politics were more give and take. Ronald Regan and Tip O'Neil would get drinks together because at the end of the day - they both were fighting for the same country.

As an independent with those dreaded social justice leanings I must agree with you Andy -
Bottom line: Rudy -love or hate his politics - is a weak choice with his record of public service.
I would rather have the greatest surgeon in the world with the best survivial rate and the Worst personality and marital morals operating on my child than the mediocre nicest most moral surgeon in the world. Point being Rudy is MEDIOCRE

Should not the Mayor of New Orleans be just as qualified for President as the Mayor of New York?
Or Did more non minorities need to Die?
Mayor Giulani should be shamed and shunned for playing a national tragedy, our collective emotions and sense of loss into a Presidential bid. May God forgive him for trying and enlighten those of us who fell for it.

This question was asked of me…

"Lance,

It says the same thing about Hillary who stayed with her philandering husband who cheated over and over and over so that she (Hillary) could have political opportunity.

Are you suggesting neither of these candidates should get votes because of your moral judgements?
Posted By Jon, Sacramento ~ Ca : August 16, 2007 1:19 pm

My reply… is that I am suggesting nothing, I'm simply commenting that you cannot ignore the fact that a man doesn't even have the backing of his own family when running for president. That, to me, speaks volumes about his character.

As for Hillary, which is a totally different subject, well, she chose to stand by her man for whatever her reason. Personally, I think she stood by him to avoid embarrasment and possibly to protect her own reputation as much as possible because she already knew she was running for Senate and could one day run for Prez.

To me, that feels like something Hillary would do. she's that calculated, at least.

I don't personally like either one of these candidates. Both of them feel like old school politics through and through, and both of them put their own egos and agendas ahead of what is right for the country.

Hillary or Guiliani would pull the country apart in order to serve their own egos. I would still go for Hillary because I think that she'd do a far better job than any Republican.

However, that said, Hillary doesn't inspire me in the way that Barrack Obama does. He seems to be running for all the right reasons and he seems to have far more common sense than these other relics.

It is time for true change in this country. We need to take the power of politics out of the hands of the few and put them back into the hands of the many where they belong.

Obama in office would turn the page and be a tremendous breath of fresh air. The type of experience both Guiliani and Clinton possess… I want nothing to do with. Politics as usual has lead to a steady decline in this country so severe that I fear for not only my own future, but the future of my kids as well.

Since his personal life mattered so much to all of you on here ripping Giuliani, it's shocking that Bill Clinton not only won re-election, but that some of you are probably willing to support another Clinton who stood by her man, all the while spouting off about being a strong woman. Seems pretty weak to me that she stood by a notorious adulterer. I guess without her "man" by her side she can't win.

I took a cheap shot at Mayor Giuliani in my post: August 16, 2007 5:39 pm

I'd like to apologize and request that it be removed.

There are plenty of serious political reasons not to vote for Giuliani. We don't need to make this campaign about personal problems. We've all got them.

Again, I'm sorry.

I believe that Mr. Giuliani should be judged on his professional character and perfomance in the civic sector. Extended families with issues are common. Political diversity exists throughout this country and if his family has other political opinions that's okay with me. I have not yet decided who I will support but will continue to keep an open mind until I walk into the voting booth. Given Watergate, Iran\Contra, the numerous Clinton issues, the political incest that exists in the current administration, the personal moral standards of the individuals involved do not seem to translate into any moral virtue in the political sector.

Yeah that makes perfect sense with a side order of logic! What is this blasphemy that a son or daughter doesn't agree with their parents views? Is this legal? Americans are quick to judge and only see this as "his kids don't support him" as opposed to what we should see or understand that perhaps his children have different beliefs and their father has allowed them to express themselves and do what they believe in. Or would America rather hear and see him force his kids support him because in this society if you dont support your parent(s) then they are not trustworthy.

I see it that people just don't like how his family situation/history is. Why? Its a truth that doesn't want to be known that he pretty much represents a good portion/majority of American families… divorced and with family issues. No one wants to relate to that so therefore we can define his character and personality based upon his negatives. I love logic, really, I do.

And for those immature ones that want to reply to me and say "y0ur jus a dum Giuliani fanboi!!!11one"… doesn't matter, I'm more of a Obama fan, just to put it out there.

Conservatives are selling their souls if they support a man like Rudy Giuliani. Rudy is PRO-CHOICE, PRO-GUN CONTROL, PRO-ILLEGAL IMMIGRATION (don't let him spin his record just to win your vote; check the facts!) and DOES NOT EXEMPLIFY TRADITIONAL FAMILY VALUES.

Why did the Republicans lose in 2006? Because they lost sight of claimed to stand for and what people had expected of them. If they make the same mistake by nominating Rudy Giuliani in 2008, they can expect the same results as 2006.

How come no one seems to care that he is married to his cousin!

Blanca DeBree from Fond du Lac, WI:

"Guido"?
"Mr. Magic Underpants"?
"Moron–I mean Mormon"?
"Giuseppe"?

And you're voting for Fred Thompson? Funny, with that racist screed, I would think you'd be casting your vote for David Duke!

Rudy, Like the saying goes " cant stand the heat, get out of the kitchen". Its funny that Rudy had a chance to run against Hillary after 9/11, but didn't. What do the people in the State of New York know about Rudy that the country has yet learned. He knows that the NYFD, and NYPD unions hate Rudy. More truths about Rudy will becoming out.

The sooner we stop looking for the perfect person to run the country the better off the country will be. I do not care about the candidates family situation. I respect Rudy much more than the carpet bagging Clinton. Can someone tell me why she is still with Bill? Keep any other reason except for political gain.

If morals are an important part of a candidates electability, none of them would be elected, after all they are politicians.

I am assumed at the holier than though floks that think they get to question others morals.

I think it is absolutely fair to ask a potential president about their family. As a gay man, this president will deny me a chance to marry the person I have been with for 10 years so why not look into his family and see what he is screwing up? When you allow me to marry and create my own family, then I'll leave yours alone.

Hilary Clinton is the best choice for President. The hardest thing a person can go through is being betrayed by the one you love the most in this world. If you can fight through that, rebuild the relationship you once had, and stand in front of the world together, that should tell you all you need to know about the type of person she is. All you Christian Republicans are talking about her personal life and you're becoming a hypocrite. Your bible teaches you to forgive. She has forgiven her husband for what he did. Giuliani has been married 4 times, his kids hate him. He supported gays while mayor of NYC but now changing his story in order to become president. He's a walkign hypocrite and anyone voting for him deserves exactly what the people who voted for Bush are getting. A man who thinks he runs the world. Hilary is the absolute best person for this job. She can work out the problems this country has rather than starting a fight. It is a man's nature to resort to violence when confronted. It is a woman's nature to talk it through. I think we've been fighting long enough, let's put someone in that can keep a level head and talk through it.

"leave my family alone" … ??? Sure Rudolph, we don't need to know about a presidential candidates family life. After all, we are judging you based on your character, and everyone knows that ones 'family' life doesn’t make or build a persons character.

I would like to invite you to my church so that we can have an open discussion on this topic. I'm sure there’s a lot we can learn from you.

I agree completely with the question. If a man can't gain the support of his own kin, there's no reason why he should expect support from the rest of the country. Family values hasn't been as much of an issue in the last few presidential campaigns cause the candidates had strong families behind them! What happens when Giuliani is the nominee and stands on the platform at the Republican convention with only his wife behind him! His poor history of family relations will obviously come back to haunt him in a way we haven't seen in the last few decades. The sad part is he seems to be the party's strongest candidate!

Go Rudy!!! Show America what those traditional republican family values! What are the Pro lifers wackos going to do if Rudy gets nominated. Rudy supports pro choice. No platform for the right wing christian's

All I can say is I like what Giuliani did during Sept. 11 and I don't like what he did with his family. I would vote for him over Hillary any day though. Hillary scares me. She will jump on the band wagon of any view if she thinks she will get more votes and she has not accomplished anything really. Why does anyone think she will be a good president? If you want to talk about voting for a clean candidate I think the only choices are Edwards and Ron Paul. Although, I am voting for Ron Paul because I think his views are spot on.

I don't really care about his family but I have an issue with the fact that he is the only 911 "worker" who became a multimillionaire speaking about the attacks over and over. Speaking about our tragedy became his busine$$.

It is pretty clear that the republicans, voicing their views here, continue to be hypocrites. It is so terrible, in their view, that Clinton had an affair(s) and even worse that Hillary did not leave him (another hypocrisy here since the republicans are so all about family and maintaining the family). Then it is somehow acceptable that some of their canidates or potential canidates are guilty of the same thing.

I agree with Guilliani that the family should be out of it, however, he should be open to the possibilty that his wife and their relationship prior to their marriage is going to come up. On the other hand if he is the republicans choice and Clinton is the democrats choice, maybe the subject won't come up since there will be equal amounts of baggage. Now that would be nice. Also, it has to be said, his relationship to his family and the way he handled his divorce are serious charater issues that provide and important clue to how he will handle diplomacy.

Mr.Giuliani, isn't the only one with skeletons in the closet. Everyone and I mean Everyone in high office or any position whether it be law enforcement to super stars. There all guilty and how they relieve there guilt is by joining and giving to charities and running for office to say, hey look I'm the better of all evils. Folks we're in trouble………….

Yes… let's look at his history as a mayor. Up until 9/11, his leadership of New York was called into question from just about every quarter. His family problems weren't pretty then, but they were small compared to his failings as mayor… in particular, his poor stewardship of the emergency response capabilities of the city.

Let's face it. He made some macho speeches in the aftermath of the tragedy - something like "Hey - you can't keep us down! We're New York." It was the indomitable spirit of the city that rallied the city. Not the jingoism of a failed mayor.

James, Phoenix -

If you are going to make an argument, please try to make it coherent and relevant.

What in the world does championing women's rights have to do with being married to someone who is guilty of infidelity? You are just someone with an irrational hatred of the Clintons. Whatever Bill did has nothing to do with this discussion, yet you persist in dredging up his past to try to somehow take the heat off Giuliani.

By the way, how come you don't have the same righteous outrage at what Giuliani did to his wife by having his mistress live with him in Gracie Mansion? How about the fact that he announced to the media that his marriage to Donna Hanover was over without even telling her? With your unending judgmental morality, you refuse to at least be consistent. Giuliani's son wasn't even on speaking terms with him because of the way he treated his mother. You are guilty of something even worse than Bill Clinton - hypocrisy in the first degree. Either condemn all who engage in infidelity, or keep your ignorant mouth shut.

Hillary did the "Christian" thing to do and forgave her husband….this was after months of prayer in the White House that the Republicans do not want to discuss….Senseless slaughter of our boys and girls in Iraq for oil is not too moral in my opinion! Shipping jobs over seas and corporate welfare is extremely immoral and the result of a "Christian" President…and we wonder why churches are losing members?

Easy solution….vote for Obama….Great family man, social activist, and inspiring…..

After becoming President, He will say leave me alone as well if accounted for anything.

A public figure should have the courage to listen to any sort of questions and be able to answer.

Russ A

I'd like to know what's wrong with all these people who think that somehow being an adulterer is a greater offense than waging an illegal war and destroying the lives of millions of people overseas.

Anyone who is worried about his marital life needs to get a grip. These are the same people throwing a fit about privacy rights from the government. It goes both way…especially when it has nothing to do with their position as a politician. Get a serious grip on reality. Would you go to the head of your company and tell them that you can't work for the company anymore because of his issues at home. Of course you wouldn't. I will tll you that if we keep slinging this political mud…the great leaders of our future will never consider public service because any personal mistakes you made up to this point is going to be brought up as some type of talking point. If you ever interview for a job and consider it fair game for the company to ask you about your relationship with your children or ex-wife…you would pick your resume off of their desk and tell them where to stick it.

Why some readers here keep saying that Giuliani made new york or america safe?

He moved the command centre to the twin tower which then collapsed with thousands of innocent people. As a mayor of new york, he did nothing in NY city to prevent the terroist attack, and has done nothing significant since.

Why should I vote for Giuliani who scored an "F" in city administration and family affairs?

Rudy, is just another empty suit, America is so desperate to find a "hero" that some americans fail to see Guliani for what he is. "AN EMPTY SUIT" He has flipped floped on major issues from his stance on abortion and Immigration to ground zero. Meaning - he will say anything to get elected. He has surrounded himself along his political stops with criminal types including most recently his campagin manager in SC o drug charges. Another example, if you go back a couple of years and read his appointment of Bernark Kerick as NYC Police Commissioner indicates he is no different than GWBush when appointing "yes men" without experience. Kerick was plucked by Guliani to lead the department with little or no experence as an administrator and as you know later became associated with several people beleieve to have Mob Ties. One wonders if these are also Guliani's friends?

I don not see why people should give a vote to Giuliani when he will "leave your family alone". We want someone who cares about me and family members.

While I care less about a candidate's skin color or his religion before giving a vote, I do care about how he leads or conducts in his marriage(s) & business affairs, which is an indicator of his moral fibre, resepct deserving from others and ability to resolve conflicts.

Even though he was a mayor in NY (very provincial in my view), he has yet to demostrate he is "presidential" in his debates and conduct. He knows nothing about the federal and international politics.

Personally, I agree with the man. Being in the public eye does not give people the right to scrutinize and tear down your children. They didn't choose this and the press needs to let them live their own lives.

However, I would like to point out how funny it is that merely one president after the Republicans made adultry a national issue with the Clinton scandal, they are embracing so many politicians who have been caught in much more inflamatory situations. I wonder, is hypocrisy the party line?

Hill & Bill
Rud & Jud

How cool…….

Mr.Giuliani is running on the basis of high values. He displayed his when he moved his "lady" friend into the mayor's mansion while his wife and children were living there with him. Some values!

in order to have a functional family one must have trust and dialogue,much in the same way you would deal with other countries. Mr. Giuliani wishes for us to leave his family alone, however his policies will affect all members of my family why should I not question his ability to lead a nation if he cant lead a civil life with his family.

Fuhgetaboutit!

If you run for President your family is part of the deal. If you want them to be left alone move to South Florida.

Giuliani will "leave my family alone" if he gets elected! Why should I give my vote to this non caring and unsympathetic guy?

I expected to see most of these posts, very one side or the other but I was shocked to see moron and mormon used in such a casual manner. It does appear to me that someone who supports Thompson to be the one using the slur. As far as Giuliani goes, I would trust him to do anything. He is isn't qualified and wouldn't of amounted to anything without federal crime money to help him with crime in NYC (yes you can thank Bill Clinton for that). The conservatives will never stop beating up on Clinton, maybe because he ran our economy like a fine tuned clock and the middle class was taken care of? Republicans want big business, that would include over American living standards. I hope Rudy does win the primary's becausee that will assure either Hillary or Edwards wins!

I can’t believe all of the posts here supporting these types of questions. I don’t think as many of you with you torch and pitch forks would ever like to see this same standard applied to you, but if you do, then let’s apply it to you and me and we’ll start asking and fielding these same types of questions during your next job interview: "Married? Ever been divorced? Why, was it fidelity? What's your relationship with your children?”

- C'mon and knock off the holier than thou! Just because it is a public office or the person is a celebrity of sorts – doesn’t give anyone the right to ask such inappropriate and personal questions. It’s rude and uncivil I don’t care how you justify it (e.g. National defense, etc.). We live (or should live) in a civil society based upon mutual respect, where papers are filled with though provoking articles to advance our inherent and learned curiosity and not to drag anyone through the pages siply because we are the many, anonymous and pious and there is one person on the podium. Please get some class. We simply do not gain the right know everything about a person simply because they chose to seek the presidency or any other public office. Let’s admit enough is enough. I was no Clinton fan, but that was just silliness and those bent on his distructuion damaged the position and respect of the office and us as Americans. Enough with the celebrity assassinations and mind your own Ps and Qs!

… by the way, is that young mother, who brought her daughter, a single parent? Did her husband leave her? Doesn’t she have a good relationship with her mother or family to leave her daughter? Does she use a car seat? ………………?

Cold turkey - just say no!

Rich

That's NO WAY to WIN.

If it sizzles, it sells, who can forget it now!

"…just like I'll leave your family alone."

Haha, good one, Giulani.

Mindy Chatsworth, Ca

" I am judging him on his hypocritical phony conversion to war mongering ultra conservative freedom fighter against terrorism. I have never seen such shameless pandering in my life"

Great - I look forward to Hillary being questioned how she can be a staunch supporter of WOMENS RIGHTS yet defend a phildandering abuser.

This will be an entertaining campaign!

Giuliani left his family alone.

I have no sympathy whatsoever for Rudy Giuliani. The Republicans opened this pandora's box and now they can take the consequences. Unfortunately, any political candidate's personal life is fair game and the Republicans have no one to blame but themselves.

The Clintons were not spared intrusion into the most intimate details of their married life, so what is good for the goose is good for the gander, in this case Rudy Giuliani. I remember a time when we did not have to hear about the personal lives of our presidents. The public did not know of JFK's many dalliances, nor did anyone know of FDR's lifelong romance with another woman during his marriage to Eleanor. Why in the world do we have to know this? It didn't make any difference in the greatness of FDR as president during a critical time in our history and it didn't make any difference with JFK, either. If you are looking for perfection in private life, you are not going to necessarily find it. I think it's time the American grow up and think about what is really important.

One need only look at our current president to see how absurd it can be to judge someone by the state of his marriage. George and Laura seem to be blissfully happy and devoted to each other. But one need only look at the truly abysmal record of the Bush administration to see that one often has nothing to do with the other. His character and behavior in his personal life didn't prevent him from displaying a callous disregard for the millions of middle class working Americans who need a break. Instead, he showed where his loyalty was by giving the top two percent of the wealthiest Americans a huge tax cut that helped create the biggest deficit in our history.

Maybe it's better to judge someone on the totality of their behavior in both their personal and public life and strike a balance.

I personally am not judging Giuliani by the manner in which he conducted himself in his marriage. I am judging him on his hypocritical phony conversion to war mongering ultra conservative freedom fighter against terrorism. I have never seen such shameless pandering in my life. What some people will do to get elected. Giuliani is trying to reinvent himself as Alexander the Great, Attila the Hun and Napoleon all in one. He is beyond ridiculous. Shame on him for blatantly using the most horrific attack on Americans on 9/11 to try to propel himself into the presidency. As if he knows anything about dealing with terrorism, except to call the Democrats soft on terror, which is just today's version of soft on crime, commie pinko liberals. He is a disgrace.

Bukky,
I couldn't have said it better myself. Preach on brotha!
There is no difference in my opinion, cheating is cheating. But you cannot condemn someone and then blame the entire party for having loose morals or whatever. Isn't that called prejudice?
Anyway, all of these people live far above my means and will not and will never have to live in our reality because they have two things the average American doesn't have; connections and money!

On a side note for those of us who don't care one iota for the people,
why do we feel we have to defend these people through thick and thin and mistake after mistake? When was the last time one of your relatives fell ill and the called? When your wife left you or your children disappointed you and it tore you up inside, which senator, representative and/or presidential candidate checked in on you to make sure you would be alright?
Which one of them helped you get your job back, or convinced your wife nothing was going on, your secretary was just looking for a plug under the desk? Or better yet, when was the last time your husband or wife left you alone because she didn't really know what the definition of "is" was? That stuff only works in the land of make believe while we watch it from Realityville.

Its funny to the bone, the same Republicans and their supporters who malign Hillary for her husbands philandering, yet they scream murder if anyone so much as mentions Rudy's family. In other words Democrats families are fair game, but Republicans' families are not. How stupid can anyone get, no wonder they lost the election in 2006 and they are going to lose in 2008.

I know most Americans have a negative opinion of African Americans it's obvious. Giuliana is one of those people. In his effort to clean up New York City he divided the city. He treated Hispanics and Blacks like they it was 1950 Jim Crow South. He would not even meet with his Boro presidents Virgina Fields and Fernando Ferraro, an undercover cop tried to solicite drugs from an African American man on his way to work and a fight broke out and the cop shot the guy, who did nothing did not have a police record and was a family man. Giuliani sided with the cop and tried his best to smear the dead man by illeagally opening up his Juvienile records to find something he did when he was a teenager. This guy was in his 30's and a hard working family man that did not have support of the city. there are to many stories like this to write here. Trust me no one wants this guy to be President. It's his way or no way just like Bush.

If potential Presidential candadite Giuliani says " Leave his family alone, just like I'll leave your family alone" has already foretold his presidency……LOL. He will do nothing for us!

So Rudy,
The best way to deal with a question you don't want to answer is to cop out when you feel it necessary?
did he think about his family when he left his either first or second wife but she only found out by watching it on a press conference?
I'd rather vote for Mommy Dearest.

The reasons why it matters so much is that the Republican party was ALL about family values, and morals for the last eight years. Did the republicans leave Terry Schiavo's family alone? NO, they hounded her husband every chance they got. They have pried into others faniles for years now. I hope they keep prying and exposing these family values hypocrates for what they are!!!!

He’s right that family is a limited picture of him, but they are part of him. If he can’t get his own children’s vote, that says something important. And if they think he mistreated his wife/their mother, that says something, too.

james, Phoenix AZ : August 16, 2007 3:33 pm

Clinton was never accused of sexual assault. Clinton had consensual sex with women. He cheated on his wife and I for one don't give a damn. He never claimed to be a saint and he did not run on a platform of moral values. She decided to forgive her husband who cheated on HER, hundreds of women do it everyday. It’s BS that conservatives are now using that as an attack knowing very well that if she had left him, they'd now say "look she left her husband and destroyed her family because she didn’t want to forgive him"

And yes wife of republicans do stick by their husbands side no matter what. The wife of the republican senator who "called" the DC madam 3 times did not pack her stuff and leave. AND he was sleeping with prostitutes, that is both dangerous and illegal. She "forgave" him. Seems to me that whenever a republican is caught pulling a "Bill Clinton" the conservatives call for forgiveness, but when a democrat does the same thing it’s ripping at America’s moral fabric.

Why is it that a Newt left his wife on her death bed (while prosecuting Bill for Monica) and Giuliani left is 2ND wife in such a public manner ( taking the mistress to the Opera, trying to move her into the mansion) and the conservatives kept/keep quiet? Let John Edwards leave his wife and see the “moral” outcry from the right wing.

I really don’t care who had sex with who and why. I have a problem with HIPOCRASY

People are giving Guiliani trouble about family problems? Five words: Hillary Clinton and Bill Clinton.

[...] a campaign stop in New Hampshire Thursday, Rudy Giuliani said that people should "leave my family alone," after being asked why he should expect loyalty from GOP voters when he can't even get [...]

LOL. I did live in New York while both Dinkins and Giuliani were Mayor. And I felt safer with Rudy. As for the Diallo shooting. If the Police told me to stop and get on the ground with guns drawn. I'm getting on the ground not reaching into my pocket.

Rick ~ Chicago,

I know this might be rather difficult for you to follow… so I will write really s.l.o.w…

IF pundants/partisans/etc wish to delve into the "private life" (remember that from Pres Clinton days?) of Rudy Guiliani - then PLEASE expect ALL candidates' families to be fair game - including Hillary CLINTON wife of Bill Clinton.

So HONESTLY Rick - it wouldn't bother you ONE bit that the spouse of a candidate running for the Presidency has been accused of rape, sexual assault of numerous women, an elicit affair in the Oval Office. But you're concerned that Rudy has been divorced?

Is that what you're telling everyone?

What he is really saying is leave the Republican families alone but Democrats are fair game. What a scum-bag!

NON-ISSUE

NEXT

The problem is not that his daughter won’t support him. Families are allowed to have a difference of opinion; the problem is that THEY DONT SPEAK. I don’t like my family but we speak. What does one have to do to get their adult children to not talk to them? AND we all know very well that if Giuliani was a democrat, the republicans would be having a field day with him and his family.

And I don't get why so many republicans are upset that Hillary did not leave Bill. Republicans are the "stand by your man" people. The "Forgive him and fix your marriage" people. When the wife of a democrat finally "stands by her man" they attack her for being an opportunist. This is the epitome of republican hypocrisy.

Jon and Matt from CA … excellent partisan posts guys! Way to make an article about RUDY crying cuz he cant stand the media pressure into an article about a president out of office 7 years already! Hint: Check your calender.

Unfortunately BILL Clinton (the guy who did the cheating AFTER winning the election) isn't running for office and Rudy (from the party of Republican conservative moral values) is. So to everyone here (except you and Matt), your point is totally useless on this thread. Hillary can get all the votes she wants due to her moral judgements - especially considering the fact that she 1) didn't cheat and 2) isn't running on a republican platform of conservative moral values.

Go find one that's titled "Bill Clinton: Leave my family alone" and put your posts there.

Oh .. and Matt? "Rudy made New York a safe city for the first time in years, a city any tourist or resident can feel safe in." Sure .. if you call the fear of getting shot 41 times while unarmed in the vestibule of your apartment building "safe". Ask Patrick Dorismond and Amadou Diallo how safe they felt being protected by the vigilante cops who shot first and asked questions later under Rudy's watch. Oh wait .. you CAN'T .. they're DEAD! Tell us why in April of 2000, a NY Times poll found that after the shooting of Patrick Dorismond, 50% disapproved of Rudy's handling of crime won't you?

One last thing Matt … did you ever check out some posts of people actually FROM New York City and read what they had to say about "America's Mayor"? Can you tell us why, aside from all the people like you OUTSIDE of NYC who think Rudy is such a "hero", why those people who actually LIVED in NYC while he was mayor can't seem to stand the guy?

Get back to us guys! We'll be anxiously awaiting your witty retorts.

Rudy, that's what we are afraid of…that you will indeed leave our families alone!

This man is a public figure and someone who is aspiring to run our country. We, as American's, have a right to know how he interacts within his personal life. I, for one, am not really thrilled with this man…he may have been a wonderful leader for NYC, but I am not confident he can run our country.

WOW, how obtuse are you people? Based on most of the comments posted about the article, do you expect your adult children to follow you politically? Should you be chastised because your adult children don't support the same candidate you do? Are your children not allowed to vote based on who they think is the best candidate? Funny, I thought that's why we lived in the US, so we could choose as individuals who we want to lead our country. I support Rudy, but I also support and respect the right for each US citizen to vote for who they think is the best man (or woman) for the job.

His family are people too. And people have the freedom to believe what they want and who they want to believe will do the job. Just because family members don't support his ideas doesn't mean that he shouldn't be supported at all. Freedom of Speech.

America today is divided and it needs a President to bring the entire American together. I don’t see how a person who can’t even bring his family together can bring the Nation together.

Matt from Canoga Park:
It is absolutely amazing that you and others like you constantly bring up the Clintons when a Republican has character issues. The Clintons have nothing to do with this discussion, quit using them as a scapegoat. Apply your own Republican standard to your candidates and you will see that few can withstand the scrutiny. Now maybe you all see how ridiculously silly, simplistic and unfair the holier-than-thou attitude of Republicans, as it was and is applied to the Clintons, really is. Of course you Republicans are willing to forget all the character issues of those in your party. Rudy is just one, Newt also comes to mind. I also fail to understand how Hillary can be pilloried for her husband's infidelity. That is plain and utter nonsense. And by the way Hillary is no more or less ambitious than any other canddidate. They all want the power and prestige of the office to think otherwise is to be naive.

It would be nice if the system in place in America would leave our families alone. Sadly, parents are accountable to idiots every day here in the states. We as parents must relinquish our kids to schools which extend the propaganda well beyond the fundamentals. Plus, after imposing misplaced values on our kids and subsequently the family, the system bears no acconntability. So Rudy and anyone else who thinks families are off limits, I agree, but then I seldom get anything I want in this confused and tormented world either.

I don't believe the fact that Giuliani's children don't support him or speak to him is at all indicative of who he is as a person, or his abilities to lead.

My husband and I ave been married before. At this point, none of his 5 children are speaking to him or to me, because they didn't like a decision that we made . . . a decision that was ours and only ours to make. If my husband was running for president, at this juncture his children wouldn't vote for him either. However, the fact that they don't approve of a decision that has nothing to do with them and the fact that they are jealous of our relationship isn't indicative of who my husband or I are as people, or who we might be as leaders if we were so inclined to run for office.

As for Hilary . . . if anyone cares to go back and do a bit of research there was an extensive article written in 1998 about her plans to run for president in 2008. Part of that plan was a pact to stick with Bill for appearance sake only, because she knew full well that she couldn't possibly make a bid for office as the first woman and divorced. Does anyone want to vote for someone who is so cold and calculating? She doesn't care about the welfare of the American people, when this was a calculated plan at least 10 years ago.

another political disfuntional human being…….

Although familial standing IS an indicator of his character, forget about it. Giuliani demonstrates time and again that he lacks basic understanding of world issues and history to back up his all-important crusade against terror. Ron Paul proved this, called him out on it, and you never heard Giuliani's response.

I'd say that he's a cheap, ignorant opportunist with too many skeletons in his closet to be elected, but then I remember that this country put GWB in office twice.

hmm Matt that's funny, because only someone who lived in New York City at the time when Giuliani was Mayor would know about its safety. Living in NYC at the time, I did not feel safe: crime was high from both civilians and cops, important aspects such as education were not valued, and Mr. 'America's Mayor' didn't even act like New York's Mayor.

Rock on Jenny from Iowa! I'm glad someone else knows who will be president!

People make mistakes, some learn and some don't. At least he hasn't sent anyone on a fools run and seems to admit to his mistakes. Plus, would you rather have someone who lies about their personal life in charge, or someone who lies about their job and what they're doing when about it when they're in charge?

To Matt in Canoga,
Rudy made New York safe with thousands of more police on the streets, paid by the federal government, because Clinton believed that crime was a Federal issue as well as local. Remember, when Rudy was mayor, Clinton was president, and his federal crime fighting initiatives helped make cities accross the whole country safer, not just New York. Bush has reduced aid to cities for crime, and guess what, violent crime is on the rise again. Please get a clue before spouting off.

Will the United States of America allow a "home wrecket" to become first lady?

If my father OR mother ran for president as a Republican, I wouldn't vote for them either.

His daughter is young and idealistic; it's no indication of his character.

I actually think that the fact that Rudy supports his family members in backing whatever candidate they feel appropriate is a positive–after all…that's democracy. I would say that having a range of political beliefs within a family is pretty typical and actually quite healthy. I think to draw conclusions about his leadership ability based on the political convictions of his family members is slightly narrow-minded. I believe instead that it shows that he embraces one American ideal–a free thinking community.

We should all leave candidate's families out of the public campaign unless they choose otherwise.
However, for a Republican to say "leave my family out of it" is pure hypocrisy since they're the party that has intruded on privacy for years now! Even if Guiliani isn't part of this shallow political ploy, he has chosen to align himself with a party that does!
I wish all the cheap shots on both sides would end and Americans would engage in true political discouse.
Fat chance!

I am by no means a fan of Giuliani, but I have to agree with him here. Leave the families out of it. Children are allowed to have different poitical beliefs than their parents. As for his personal life, I don't think it is wise to base your vote on how successful a person is at marriage. The ability to run a country requires different skills than that needed to have a successful marriage. I find it interesting that some of the posters immediately bring in Hillary's name on a story that doesn't even mention her name and further, pretend to know her motivation for staying in her marriage. I've always been curious why they fear her so much.

We all know Rudy Giuliani's track record. He shouldn't even be taken seriously as a candidate by anyone. As a Christian Democrat I would like to see the Republicans explain why they didn't get Roe vs. Wade overturned between Jan.01-Nov.06 when they had full power of everything? That's what I thought. No explanation to be given. Also, isn't it true that 5 of the 7 justices who supported the Roe vs. Wade 1973 landmark decision were Republicans? Hmmmmmm. And the Republicans try to always say that the Democrats are the party that supports abortion. Really?????

Lance O: Rudy did indeed "step out" as they say, on his wife Donna Hanover - publicly flaunting his belief in "family values". At least Bubba KNEW he was wrong and tried desparately to hide his inexcusable behavior - to the point of getting himself impeached trying to protect his family. If Rudy gets the nomination with the Republican Party's endorsement THAT says all anyone needs to know about their "values". The selection of candidates on all sides of the 2008 Election is abysmal - I am, for the first time in my life actually embarrassed to be an American. We must be able to do better or America's role as a beacon of freedom, of leadership and of values is over. Who will lead then?- China - talk about a scary lack of values!!!

I was there in Derry , NH this morning. Everything he stated answering the question is not included in the article. He has many good plans for America and he has a proven track record. I love my country and am proud to say I am an American, that is why I support Rudy–he has my vote.

Right on, Matt from Canoga Park!

I couldn't have said it better myself. I guarantee you that most of these people who are saying that Giuliani can't be a good President because he had a bitter divorce from his wife are the same ones who supported Slick Willy after he cheated on his wife numerous times…..at least one of those being in the White House with a young intern.

Also, I suspect the only reason that Hillary didn't leave Bill was because it would look bad for her Politically. Who wants a President who would do something like that?

I'm glad Rudy is leading in the polls for the Republicans….that just means that they do not have a stong candidate heading into the '08 election. Way to go Rudy! Tell America that "you'll leave their famlies alone". IDIOT!!

Well in all fairness, just because you advocate certain policies, doesn't mean your blood relations should just vote for you. I think it's great that his daughter is thoughtful enough to make her own mind up and not just cast a vote for dad regardless.

His statement of "leave my family alone, just like I'll leave your family alone." made me LOL. What exactly was he planning on doing w/ the voter's family? rofl

No such luck buddy; America likes to butt its nose in celebrity's lives; see BILL CLINTON.

Apparently the precedent set by conservatives, that a Politicians personal life IS important…suck it up JOOLANI!

I think we need to closely examine a candidate's character. Giuliani has some red flags with me.

Hey Rudy, How about this:
The media will leave your family alone, when you drop out of the race. As a public figure, everyone you know is fair game for information and for comment.

Great. We have a vote for Ron Paul in the comments section, a man who speaks clearly but couldn't get elected town dog catcher, a vote for edwards, who lied for financial gain with babies injured during childbirth, for clinton, who had confidential FBI files on republicans "appear" magically outside her office, etc.
I don't care about Rudi's family life and I don't care about yours, either. He transformed NYC, he can communicate, he can lead, he has cajones.
That's enough for me.

It is fair for the american voters to ask questions about his family and prior marriages, if Giuliani wants to run for public office as a presidential candidate to get their votes.

He has to explain why those close to him (wives, kids and former staff) hate him. Why he had so many marriages, whcih may show his lack of character or committments or lack of ability to resolve conflicts.

The american voters do not want to elect another president like George Bush that we gradually hate, as we know him more.

For some insight into why his family won't back him, read the September "Vanity Fair" article about his wife. VERY illuminating. While I don't support Rudy, I do think his family won't back him because of personal reasons, not because they don't think he'll do a good job.

Rudy is right to call for this. It's rude and obnoxious to make family issues a way of knocking down a candidate. He doesn't mention his family either way, including when it would help him. His son recently told the media that the story was overblown and that he though his father would make a great president (look it up if you don't belive me). Rudy didn't even mention it. He sticks by his goal to make sure his children have maximum privacy whether it helps him or not. He deserves our praise for how he's handling the intrusive media not our scorn.

As a conservative, I cannot support Guido. Not only is he pro-gay, anti-gun, pro-abortion, but his family history is appalling. I'm not a big fan of Mr. Magic Underpants, but I would take a Moron–I mean Mormon–over Giuseppe any day. I am not sure whom he thinks are off limits, his three ex-wives, his children supporting Obama, or all those questionable friendships he has had over the years while cross-dressing and acting like a buffoon. Please, God, send us Fred Thompson to rescue us from this mediocrity.

Rudy's children are young adults. They have a mind of their own and can make their own decisions. I could care less what Rudy's children think. I'm capable of judging Rudy's qualifications myself.

And don't forget, two of Ronald Reagan's children were dead set against his policies and were very outspoken about it.

Who can forget young son at Guliani's swearing in as NY mayor many years ago! Pretty clear that there were family toubles brewing from seeing that. Totally unforgettable.

I don't understand why everyone assumes Guiliani's kids are Democrats/Undecided because of something he may/may not have done in his personal life. Last time I checked, these people could think, analyze, and create opinions for themselves outside of what their father does. If a child and parent have opposing political views (which happens very, very often) why would that child support his parent? Are we all automatically supposed to vote for any candidate we happen to be related to, or for the person who will do the best job?

But you will not leave my family alone if you become president. If your character is that bad when it comes to dealing with your own family then it can only be worse when doing for mine. Why do you candiates not understand that your character in your private life is what counts! If you have no morals in your own life you certainly cannot be trusted with mine!!!!

I am still on the fence politically, but I absolutely agree with Giuliani. And while a candidates personal life may speak volumes about their character, voters should vote based on each candidates political merit, perspectives, and objectives not solely on his personal family woes. Since when are his children required to have the same political perspective?? The posed question is ridiculous and uneducated. Get real America.

Of course Giuliani wants the media to leave his family alone.

After all, that’s what he did.

A chinese saying states that, before you can be a leader of a country, you have to discipline ourself first, to be followed by having a good harmonious family.

With Giuliani's 3 or 4 marriages, disgruntled ex-wives and kids, he has shown an undesirable moral character and disrespect by those dear and close to him. How can he expect the american people to respect and elect him? If elected, he would give a bad image & role model to the americans and people abroad.

To know him is to hate him! If he is the leading republican presidential candidates, the republicans will be finished in the next general election!

Can't wait to see what the fine people of the state of New Hampshire have to say about Hillary's family life!

Why are people assuming that Giuliani's kids are Democrats/undecided because of what he may/may not have done in his personal life? Last time I checked, these people can think for themselves, analyze their own beliefs, and create their own opinions. If you and your parents have opposing political views (which happens very, very often), why would you ever vote for them?

To paraphrase the screenwriter Alan Sorkin, the American people have a funny way of deciding what we pay attention to when choosing our presidents. I'm not sure Mr. Giuliani understands this. The way he treated his family is extremely reflective of his character. Hiding behind his perceived successes, as if they balance out his failures, is incredibly short sighted to the position he is seeking. Mr. Giuliani is quite famous for taking credit where it is undeserved, stepping in front of the parade to lead it, and now, the spotlight he's pointed at himself is revealing a tad too much and he's trying to diffuse. It was fine for him to attend the opera with his "friend" while still married to Ms. Hanover as he never dreamed of becoming President. It's irrelevent that she eventually became his wife. By all evidence it appears that Mr. Giuliani's inconvenient family is welcoming the attention and is backhandedly letting the rest of America know… they're not too keen on him becoming President.

On a barely connected sidebar, I'd be curious if Mr. Giuliani felt the family was fair game back in the 90's when Rush Limbaugh held up a photo of Chelsea Clinton and called her a dog.

There is only one candidate who truly wants to leave us all alone and that is Ron Paul.

I would say that Prudhomme-O'Brian wasn't sure about Giulianni's answer of "leave my family alone, just like I'll leave your family alone" because maybe Prudhomme-O'Brian thinks the same thing of Giulianni's answer that if that wasn't an indirect threat from Presidential candidate, then I wouldn't know what was.

I think very little of Giuliani. And I think it is valid to judge him based on his family, if that matters to you.

I am a Democrat who did not vote for Bill Clinton in 1996 due the fact that he was pretty scummy.

In 2008, I have picked the candidate that I feel best represents both the poltical and personal characteristics that a president should have…John Edwards.

Character? Cheated on his wife? Clinton cheated on his wife repeatedly, and while in office with a women the same age as his daughter. And was elected twice. Now his wife wants to run for the presidency with the "Return of the Clinton Team".

Rudy made New York a safe city for the first time in years, a city any tourist or resident can feel safe in. He made New York better while the Clintons made America worse.

What great accomplishments has Hillary done??? Can anyone name one thing you can point to and say thank you for doing that Hillary?

His family has nothing to do with this, same as his religion. The divorce is old news. His children are adults with their own beliefs. He's divorced, he's not the first, won't be the last. Who said anything about cheating?

As a member of THE political party that intrudes into the private lives of ordinary Americans, sets policies based on one "Republican" standard, and judges Americans whose personal lives don't meet these standards asking such questions of Giuliani, Romney, McCain and the all of the "traditional family values" Republicans running for President is perfectly valid. If he can't take it, he doesn't have to run.

Lance,

It says the same thing about Hillary who stayed with her philandering husband who cheated over and over and over so that she (Hillary) could have political opportunity.

Are you suggesting neither of these candidates should get votes because of your moral judgements?

Is anyone else amused by the fact the Guiliani wants us to leave his family alone? I thought that was a prime target for Republicans: the personal details of their opponents.

And it DOES say something when your own family is not supporting you? Hillary at least publicly supported Bill through his various dalliances.

Time to get real Rudy . . . . . if you have soundly botched the "complexities" of family life, how would you handle the "complexities" of running the Oval Office?

"America's Mayor" is also "America's Adulterer" - and adultery is destroying America's family. Step aside, Rudy, you are a phony!