Nice response by Obama. A pin should never be used to judge the patriotism of anyone.

I've always appreciated The Pin, but considering its current wearer-in-chief, I don't blame Obama for his stance on it in the least.

Genocide in Darfur, War in Iraq, Racism in the US, Global Warming….

Yet the media has decided to cover a story about a pin. Good for you CNN.

I don't get it. Why would Obama say that he won't wear the pin because of the way other people act? He said, "people wear the lapel pin, but don't act very patriotic"- so why doesn't he set an example? It doesn't make sense. Did he also take down his flag?

Another smart play by Obama.

With all the phony Wal Mart Patriotism out there, wearing the US flag on your suit has become meaningless.

Most of those types of people remind me of all those idiot rappers out there where 95% of their songs are about bragging how great they are, instead of letting their music speak for itself. You never heard one song about the Beatles bragging how they’re from Liverpool or how talented they are did you?

Saying you’re patriotic and actually being patriotic are 2 different things entirely.

Yeah, Obama keep telling the truth the
gop can't handle that feature of life!
The gop has lowered the bar so low,by
stealing the White House with an idiot.
Obama his mama your mama can do a better job than the bush crime family
even on a bad day!

Obama is the Man!

I'm not ashamed to wear the flag pin. Don't muslims eschew jewelry? Maybe that's why.

Obama is right! Time to stop the character acts media! Did you ask any of the other candidates this? NO! If this story does not wake people up to see the media is trying to bring down Obama then nothing will. They can spit in his face and still some he try to twist it as if he did something wrong. They down Obama when they want ratings or viewers than lift up Hillary because the media wants her elected to protect their financial interest. ALL MEDIA, REPORTERS, AND PUNDITS ARE LYING, SNEEKY, GREEDY IDIOTS!

Is it me or is Barack practicing the mis-use of adverbs to appeal to an intellectually challenged audience? (The "done good" folks.) Don't we want an educated candidate?

Right on Barack !…It's like some of our friends who parade around in expensive clothes and drive fancy cars, and expect us to use those external symbols as a measure of their character. Obama is proud to to tell the voters his beliefs, and his vision of America…and he shows his patriotism when he fights for the rights of the Iraq War vets who are struggling with their promised benifits or health care for their injuries. I wish more Americas would follow Barack's lead in showing 'true' patriotism by working to fight Bush's assult on our constitution, the power of the lobbyists, and to bring our country back together.

Unity and Leadership…Obama '08

Dick Cheney wears the pin and Bush. Rumsfeld too. It's a crock, a phony symbol. They are the antithesis of an American patriot.

Was I dreaming or did I see all three or four talking head commentators on a NFL pre-game show (maybe on Fox or CBS) wearing these pins? And I swear I saw one Senator or some elected retard wearing one that looked like the stars in the blue field were diamonds. Did anyone else see that? Flag as bling, OMG.

Why is this news? You could have had a story about Richardson, Biden, Paul, Huckabee, or any other 2nd tier candidate, but instead you want to cover every little thing that the 1st tier candidates do. This year has by far the worst election coverage ever.

This candidate refuses to wear an American Flag, which, of course, is his right. But why would a possible future President refuse to wear the flag..? It speaks volumes about him, and as divided as we all may be as a country, the American Flag still serves as our symbol. Shame on this man..! The more that I listen to him, the more that I realize that he is not, unfortunately, a viable presidential candidate.

Are you surprised? Obama is gauche and impulsive, seldom seeing the ripples down the line that his actions have created. Intellectually lazy.

If you don't agree with Obama on the issues, fine, I can deal with that. But to not vote for him just because of a small pin is a petty, small minded way to think.

Check out this link and find out his reasons for a lack of a lapel pin.

http://thecaucus.blogs.nytimes.com/2007/10/04/obamas-lapels/index.html?hp

If Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad wore an a
American flag pin, would that make him a good American?

That is what we call "hypocrite" - he can spin on anything.

Obama is Osama in disguise. Beware of him.

There are a LOT of ways you can support your country other than wearing a shiny badge on your coat, and Obama shows this every day.

It CANNOT possibly be, that slow of a new cycle. I mean really, does he wear matching cufflinks or a Rolex with Red White Blue in it? The Media is looking for some DUMB thing they can turn into a HUGH scandal for Obama. They will then hound on that DUMB thing hoping the public would follow their conclusion.
Also, I see why no one has bothered to comment. People are sick and tired of reading and watching bias cheerleading for Hillary and against Obama. What happened to Howard Dean has showed the media nothing.
Sept 2004 Dean polls 38% Kerry 17%. Kerry wins Iowa 38% Dean loses Iowa 18% and lost the primary. Obama is ahead in Iowa and doing well in NH and South Carolina. He has raised millions more then Hillary and ANY other candidate in the 2008 Race. We want the Media to inform us on what is truly happening in the Race. So we can make our own judgments.
I respect Candy but change starts somewhere so please start to push your network to STOP the bias reporting. It’s starting to sound down right sickening.

Gee maybe we should gang up on Sen. Larry Craig for his "lack of patriotism" too

/*sarcasm

http://d.yimg.com/us.yimg.com/p/rids/20071004/i/r1171552513.jpg?x=247&y=345&sig=nSiWS1zCD5vcX91Lkh4jMA–

<img src="http://d.yimg.com/us.yimg.com/p/rids/20071004/i/r1171552513.jpg?x=247&y=345&sig=nSiWS1zCD5vcX91Lkh4jMA–

is this fox

I agree with Barack. The flag is a piece of cloth-our true allegiance is to our Creator, and He must be pretty displeased with what passes for Christianity right now in this country.

uh oh

That does it for me, I won't vote for him. I doesn't understand patriotism.

BOBBY from Florida, you are absolutely right. I am voting for Hillary.

Well it is basically as he said; actions speak louder then words. I'd rather our president have policy that is good for America and consequently our citizens then merely prop themselves behind a symbol as though that is all that matters. After all shouldn't it be more about substance then show?

This is not news since he hasn't "worn that pin in probably a very long time", but it serves its purpose. Bizarre Obama will NOT be the next president of the United States - he is unworthy.

If it was so important to wear a flag pin, why didn't anyone notice a long time ago?

Also, anyone who thinks less of Barack due to his lack of wearing a flag pin is clearly misguided. It's the sort of meaningless issue that distracts from important discussion of substantive issues. Barack had my vote before this story and continues to have it. He is a true patriot and the most inspiring leader this country has produced in a very long time.

Lastly, for what it's worth, I took a cursory look at some photos of McCain, Romney, Huckabee, Giuliani as well as Hillary and didn't see any of them wearing a flag pin either.

Good to see someone abandon this faux-Patriot symbolism. Most of the flags I've seen are pretty tacky designs too.

I would have thought that wearing the American flag was a personal affirmation of faith by the wearer and that by then not wearing it was indicative of a change in that faith. But certainly it is a personal statement, not influenced by what others do.
I had thought that Mr. Obama's beliefs were stronger. Now I am not so sure.

Wearing a pin does not prove your patriotism. Just like wearing a cross around your neck and knifing someone else in the back isn't becoming either. Let's look at the flip side. A little while ago if you were againt the war in Iraq, the Republicans made it look like you were against our brave men and women of the military, that couldn't have been farther from the truth. I want our soldiers home and safe.

Wearing a flag pin does not make you patriotic. The issues are what matters.

"I'm not ashamed to wear the flag pin. Don't muslims eschew jewelry? Maybe that's why."

Why is it that you and many others seem to think Obama is a Muslim? He is not, has never declared he is one. I think you are confusing him with another Congressman that used a different pulp fiction book (bible) on his swearing in speech than the one you have confused him with.

Of course I can understand you being confused on the issue being that you are basing your comment upon another pulp fiction book called the Holy Bible.

The man is making a valid statement. Soon after 9/11 our local towns put out so many flags that I am sure the flag companies showed a profit for the first time in many a year (then again most of those flags were made in China), yet one year later not a flag is flown from a private household unless it is a holiday that includes putting the flag out. So much for America thumbing their nose or middle finger at Bin Laden.

How dare any of you call Obama a Muslim without doing any research, how would you like someone to call you a Mormon or Seventh Day Adventist if you were indeed not one? I am not calling those cults down as they have every right to be there as long as the Catholics and "born again" Christian evangelicals have a standing in society too.

However you prejudice is showing when you presume a dark skinned man running for President is a Muslim. It becomes very apparent with your statement that you have not done your own research on the candidates running for office and that is the reason we now have Bush Jr. in charge and doing such a bang up job of it.

You can try to call me a democrat, atheist or whatever, but alas I am just a citizen that does my research and votes for the person that is best able to do the job according to my standards and way of looking at things. I vote neither Democrat or Republican, I have voted for both down through the years as neither side has all the answers.

I can promise you this though, if you vote because of religious belief you will never get the government you truly want as all sides, even the religious right and card carrying left have perverts in their midst.

Why vote blinded by political party when instead if you use your true understanding of the world you will find you need to vote for the person, not the party line.

Corruption is more about power and money that anything else, and you know that. I am sure that most of you have met someone that has come into power or money and seen the change in them. It is a sad state of affairs, but very true, to look that good you have to be that bad. Could we find a grassroots person to run for office, yes, of course we could, but no one would fund them as there is zero payback for the money those people were putting up. If there were someone that could bypass that give and take then they would be certainly circumspect with the media as no way, no how, could a honest man be promised honest money to fund their campaing.

Do you see the sadness in this? How do we change this political machine around? I have some ideas, but you know I would rather stay alive a bit longer than push to hard for the political parties to clean up their act.

Do you have a better idea?

"Obama is Osama in disguise. Beware of him.
Posted By SM : October 4, 2007 10:42 pm"

You can always tell who watches Faux News! They parrot the bumper sticker philosophy that passes for rational discussion.

Still a free country, by the way. I'm much more interested in what a candidate's plans are than what they are wearing or who they are married to (although 3 wives is a bit much) However, unlike most financial planners - I do think that past performance is a good prediction of their future performance. Once you begin to flip-flop, you will always flip-flop. If you were mean and nasty as a mayor, once elected, you will revert to your true form.

I can't believe there are really small minded people out there who will find a way to hate on someone. Obama's response is right, actions speak louder than wearing a small flag. Sen. Larry Craig wears the flag, does that make him more patriotic?

I guess that's all that it takes to sway the small minded people to vote the other way. Just don't act surprised when the person you vote for turns out like Bush.

He's right, it's sad that what he's saying flies right over so many people's heads. It's stupid to judge someone's patriotism by a flag pin or how many yellow ribbon magnets they have on their car.

Just like Gravel said, America is getting fatter and dumber.

It's just a pin. Should we now have a constitutional amendment banning pin removal?

There are other ways to show that you are patriotic, such as voting for change and a new direction for America.

Small pin is a petty, small minded way to think, Mike. But where is Obama's heart? I don't think his mind is in America completely. I am a Korean-American, I am proudly wearing flag pins, flag braces, flag hats, flag scarf and flag sticker on my car because I love America and show to the people how much we are lucky to be Americans. Small flag pin is small but it has a huge meaning in it, I think we should think about this issue seriously. People knew he is naive and inexperienced in politics. Obama proved
he is not qualified as President so far by his speech and his action.

I'm not ashamed to wear the flag pin. Don't muslims eschew jewelry? Maybe that's why.

Posted By deucebollards :

Obama's point exactly

- - - - - —
But why would a possible future President refuse to wear the flag..?

Posted By Bobby G. Melbourne, Florida

The whole freaking article is saying WHY he doesn't wear the pin. Did you read before you commented?
- - - - - - -

Bizarre Obama will NOT be the next president of the United States - he is unworthy.

Posted By Val Davydov, Agawam, MA

If wearing a pin is what make one WORTHY of being president. This country deserves the stupidity that is Bush

Sound on principle . . .
Unrealistic on political

He's 100% correct. The American flag symbol, very unfortunately, has grown into a Republican symbol instead of a symbol standing up for freedom, rights, and equality. I've seen hundreds of people with little American flags on their car cut through traffic and flip others off. True patriotism IS shown through action.

A little American flag pin doesn't make you patriotic, and not wearing it doesn't make you unpatriotic. How many people acting like he's wrong are wearing the pin right now? I bet it's less than .001%.

"You show your patriotism by how you treat your fellow Americans, especially those ones who serve."

You mean like you treated General Petraeus??

I find it disturbing that people get bent out of shape that he is not wearing a pin of a symbol, but many of these same people do not feel outraged that millions of children were just denied health care.

Apparently, Hillary Clinton supporters have used this posting to show how hateful they truly are.

Keep it up, Hillaryland. You're only motivatng Obama-world to open up our wallets and dial our phones straight up until 2008.

Most people on this blog are idiotic. No one noticed that Obama hasn't worn that stupid little pin in months, and all of a sudden it's an issue. Please, get real!

Has anyone noticed who first used a flag lapel as a fashion statement/political message? Check out the 1930 & 40's pictures of Hitler & Goebells.

I wouldn't stop wearing the flag pin as a symbol of my allegiance to this country just because other people who wear it don't live up to my expectations or agree with my ideolgy. I would stop wearing it if my allegiance was not to this country and that is why some people are suspicious.

Possibly the biggest non-story in the history of the ticker. And that is saying something.

Hillary's people can't criticize him, because she doesn't wear the pin either, but Larry Craig was wearing it in his mug shot.
I think the media is trying to swiftboat Obama to get him out of this race; or to get his supporters to change their minds. When instead, this has made me support him even more, with our without the nomination.

It reminds me of that Seinfeld episode where Kramer did a walk-a-thon to raise money for AIDS…"What do you mean you are not going to where the ribbon? Everyone wheres the ribbon!"

Obama has not told the truth about why he stopped wearing the pin. He probably did not know anyone will notice. America beware!! This is it.

Obama wears the pin after 9-11 but takes it off because of phony patriotism??

PLEASE!

Phony patriotism is putting ON the flag pin when you're doing it cause "everyone else is", Obama.

I guess that means Obama doesn't love his country.

On the other hand, George Bush can lie to the American people; sap our miltary resources by involving us in a bogus war when a much more dangerous foe needs to be destroyed; screw up the U.S. economy almost beyond repair; propose amnesty for millions of illegal alien criminals; have you people out a government agent for political reasons, and then commute the sentence of a friend who obstructed the investigation; but as long as he wears that little flag pin he's a Great Leader.

Get real.

So, did he stop telling his wife that he loves her because other people do that in a cynical way, and she should just now it from other actions?

If he is elected president, will he not wear the pin? And if he is elected and does wear the pin, will that make him a hypocrite — or make this little action look like a petty way to differentiate himself from other candiates?

Personally I could care less if the man wears a pin or not. What I care about is if this man is serious about showing his patriotism then how about pulling our troops out of a war with no end in sight? We all know now this "war" is a failure and to keep putting our armed forces in danger is just, for lack of a better word, stupid. Every candidate has said they don't see our pulling out of Iraq until at least 2013. So we admit this war was a failure, we admit we are losing and fighting in a war we have no business being in and yet no candidate will have the courage to stand up and say No More. I will vote for any candidate regardless of party if they can promise to start pulling our troops out immediately after getting sworned into office. Other than that I have no interest in voting for any of these candidates. The same old rhetoric and the same old promises with nothing to back any of it up.

I have twenty-two flags on my car because I am twenty-two times more patriotic than you.

Hypocrisy at its finest;

I'm going to try to tell the American people what I believe will make this country great. Hopefully that will be a testimony to my patriotism."

I am sure United States of America is already the greatest country on our planet!

Wearing a pin (superficial affectations of patriotism) and motivating people by fear has been the GOP play book since 9-11. If the ambition of our leaders has been to move us closer to a police state, they've done a good job of it. Fear is unbecoming in a free people.

The pin was probably made in China, anyway.

And Pat in Huntington, NY…good call about the Seinfeld episode!

I like Obama, but come on CNN report news. Isn't that what you are here for?

CAn anyone tell me how wearing a flag pin that was probably Made In China (using lead paint,no doubt) makes you more patriotic….maybe if they were made in the USA ,I might even wear one

I like Obama but refusing the pin kinda irritates me a little. I dont know why, but there it is in the back of my head. This is going to come back to bite him

I have a feeling that many others feel this way. Its just a symbol but his refusal sounds "off" for a presidential candidate. It almost sounds "contemptuous" or "disrespectfull.

What's the big deal? The pin was probably made in China anyway.-

I have a daughter serving her 3rd tour in the Middle East…she asked a real basic question, "Why can't he do both?". Something fishy here.

What a joke Obama. People in the US protest the war and burn the US flag because of the protest but that does not mean that we should all take our flags down. Put the lapel back on and wear it proudly regardless of how other people act or view it. Or maybe your just not proud to be an American???

People who root for a favorite team like the TB Bucs wear there teams apparall in support of that team. Maybe Barack Obama won't wear the pin because he truly isn't an American, he's a Muslim at Heart.

This is wonderful!!!! I am glad to see a political elite who finally recognizes that being a true patriot does not mean that you have to wear the latest lapel pin and down trod on all those who are not "in the now" on patriotic memorabilia. This is just further proof why Barack Obama is the best man for the job of President of the United States!!!!

Nice headline. Pretty much what I would expect from Fox News…oh, this is CNN? I guess not much difference.

Obama really should wear the pin!!!!!

What is non patriotic about doing both! That pin is a symbol of our Honor, Courage, and Committment to the fallin 911 personnel and the United States of America!!! What is he tryibng to say? Is he hoping to get the votes of people who would look down on him for stand for the USA! What a Dirt Bag! He discuss me and should discuss everybody esle!

I totally agree with Obama. This is yet another great example of how not phoney he is.

Besides, I think it's great to love America, but also the whole world. Why are we so Ameri-Centric? I think we'd do better if we viewed ourselves as global citizens with the duty to respect everyone. I'm tired of the fear mongering and being afraid of other people in other countries. People are people. Love thy neighbor.

OK..I give in Obama made a good point and then I remember that in the past one elected official refused to take his oath of office on the Bible and instead said it had to be the Koran. Am I mistaken wasn't this the same guy? Do we want him to lead "OUR" country?

What's next, Obama decides not to fly the flag? Displaying our country's colors IS an action of patriotism. The most important? No. But refusing to display the colors sends the wrong message from a would be Commander in Chief.

If a Republican stopped wearing the pin, it would be considered a brave, principled stand of resolve and substance, etc. If a Dem does it the GOP/mass-media-believer/McCarthyist types come out to condemn him.

Good for you Obama~ hope you make it! Good luck.

If you don't, I hope you would consider a VP position.

No flag, no vote from this veteran.

"I find it disturbing that people get bent out of shape that he is not wearing a pin of a symbol, but many of these same people do not feel outraged that millions of children were just denied health care."

You took the words right out of my mouth!! What the heck was that?? Sad, sad, sad!!! Pathetic!!! What must the other countries think of the US? Denying millions of children healthcare! I am embarrassed, sickened, and saddened all at once! Gosh, I can't wait for someone, anyone, to take a stab at the presidency, just get this one over with!! I don't know how much longer this country can take!

Sen. Obama needs to be concerned about HIS image & patriotic behavior & not that of others…wearing the flag pin on his lapel reinforced his attributes as a leader…if others are hypocritical in their actions & appearance, they will be found out…I'm disappointed with Sen. Obama's choice to not display his pride to be an American…

Why do you point out that Obama won't wear it even when others don't either?

Thinks about this. If Obama couldn't carry the weight of a few grams on his lapel, how could he support the weight of a nation?
Mr. Obama, show your pride,it doesn't weigh much.

This is why I have a problem with many democrats. So many of them have no problem putting a bush bashing sign on their front lawn or a similar bumper sticker on their hybrid vehicle, but g-d forbid they would put an American Flag pin on their lapel.

No, wearing such a pin does not prove you are patriotic, but neither do the above-noted symbols. But refusing to wear a flag pin does make a statement in the same way those exercises of free speech do. In addition, it
further proves Obama's lack of experience and immaturity. He's is not qualified to be President regardless of what he wears on his lapel. Senator, when you are comfortable enough in your own skin to wear the flag pin regardless of what you stand for, I will then take you seriously. You are an American citizen first, and a Presdential candidate second.

Uh, why not do both?

Good for Obama- a patriot is a patriot whether he wears a pin or not.
I love the comment by Ed from NY- if we are really going to discuss education- lets start from the top. I believe our President could use a little hooked on phonics!

"Obama no longer wears flag pin",by doing so he shows no respect for this country, he is running for office and he shouldn't be ashame to show his patriotism. I am an undecided voter,and Obama will not get my vote.

I am not sure which is worse Obama or Hillary. Either way we in trouble! Question EVERY American needs to ponder….When was the last time you heard a name that resembled Obama? He is not a true American, he is a devil in disguise. BEWARE! Do you think George Washington would ever approve of a guy with a foreign name, foreign background, representing America? He can claim to be an American all he wants, but never in a million years would I have never thought our country would acctually show support for a man who is a wanna be American. There is a reason he isn't wearing the "pin". His "real" country won't let him!! Wake up America!!! Ross Perot isn't looking so bad now!!

After reading some of the comments, its funny to me. 1 that this even qualifies as news and 2. that people say they won't vote him b/c of this. (Acutally, you weren't going to vote for him anyway). It just goes to show how simple minded people can be. Just because somebody says they would rather SHOW their patriotism through their actions rather than by displaying a pin, he now becomes unpatriotic…give me a break!

Who is the hyppocrite Obamba trying to impress by not wearing the US flag pin! Probably the un American and radical Left crowds he is soliciting for votes. If he will not wear the US pin, let him run for office in some other country he does feel proud to represent - not the USA

I think that while what Obama says is true about being patriotic in your heart, anyone running for an office, especially the Presidency, should be ashamed not to wear an American flag on his lapel. He just lost lots of points with me and I don't mind sharing how I feel with those around me.

CNN should just completely hand the reins to Drudge so we'd at least have truth in advertising. This is pathetic.

That pin is just like those stupid jesus fish people put on their cars. It has no merit unless you have the right stuff to back it up.

Check the Flag Code people. We are all violators.

I agree with Barack Obama in response to not wearing the American Flag Lapel Pin. It is great to hear a Presidential Candidate make a strong statement by reinforcing what our Constituation stands for and that is having a "future" President that believes in "serving the American People." You have my "Vote" sealed with this statement, Barack!

i'm so glad that one of these candidates has the guts to not wear this absurd pin.

I won't vote for Mr. Obama because I disagree with his plan for the country. Focus on his policy positions, not what he wears on his lapel. This debate is irrelevant, and frankly, a waste of time.

I wonder if Senator Craig wore won in the bathroom stall?

As a Hispanic voter not sure about the Democrats, they have show to be very hatefull regarding Patriotism. Hilary is a macho candidate who cares for diversity but only certain color but brown. and Obama is just plain idiot.

The US Flag is so over represented that it has become meaningless. Now all you GOP zealots can start the insults….

Give this up media you are making yourselves look like ididots!

This is a stupid media article to get people riled up. I agree wholeheartedly, you don't need symbols for show. Actions speak quite a bit louder than words.

he REFUSES to wear an american flag?

get out of here

Again, a presidential candidate wholly committed in thought and practice to bringing about a change, even in the most subtle ways, from the formulaic, symbolism reliant rhetoric of the old order. Three Hurrahs for Obama!!

Not sure on his "statement" other than it appears to be "unpatriotic". Does he also take down the flag and stop being respectful towards our military? What's next? His stock is plummeting.

Who gives a damn?! This is not news, this is not politics. Now I can see why Paris Hilton makes more press than these guys.

Osama Obama wouldn't need to wear one, now would he?

Vote Republican 2008!

If I recall my Civics/Social Studies classes from my school days, wearing the flag is a desicration to the colors. Therefore, Cheney, Bushie, etc. are the ones who are dishonoring this country! You go, Barack!

As long as he has a decal of a yellow sticker on a big SUV, I am ok with this

Whether right or wrong, he won't win with that attitude. He won't even finish second. Too bad.

Again, first of all it's Usama, with a U not Osama with an O. Ever since Barack Obama came on the scene the media has made Usama Bin Laden's name out to try and match Obama's, to put brainwashing in the minds of Americans to deter them from Barack Obama. the American, the presidential candidate. And it needs to stop!!! Spell Bin Laden's name correctly, with a U, not an O.
Second, why are these major headlines Obama not wearing a flag pin? Why hasn't the media headlined Hillary and Billary not wearing their flag pins? I've never seen a flag pin on Hillary's pantsuits.
I'm rather relieved Obama does not wear a flag pin, I'd hate to confuse him with Bush, who's never seen without his flag pin as he continues to strut, swagger, boast and lie, while our American soldiers and innocent Iraqis continue to be killed for this illegal, immoral and unjustified invasion!

No flag, no vote from this veteran

Posted By E N Jay, Elizabethtown, KY

Fine, then vote for Hillary or one of the deferrment-prone GOP warmongers.

Just don't unpack your dufflebag yet, and brush up on your persian because you are going to Iran buddy.

I wonder how many Hillary/GOP voters are going to enlist once she's elected? Answer: none.

- from another veteran.

.

I wouldn't vote for him even if he covered his entire body with flag pins!

What, no pin wearing?? Fine, I'm not wearing underwear then.

The comments are more entertaining than the article.

Mr. Obama, you just want to get excuse by blaming other people who are wearing that pin. How can you know that those who are wearing that pin are not as patriotism as you??

Even though it's just a symbol, a small symbol, at least we can start our patriotism by wearing that pin (especially you as a presidential candidate to give example for all the Americans from kids to seniors).

If just such a little patriotism thing you already object, how can you bear a huge responsibility of patriotism of this country? Are you willing to live suffer for your country? I don't think so. Just for a very small thing, you are already not willing to.

God bless us.

If you feel you are a patriot, then you would not shun our flag because of what others do. Is this more of a devotion to the muslim community? This man cannot be trusted.

To JB in Oak Lawn:

Read between the lines on all of this and you'll find the GOP's "wrap the flag 'round me boys" mindset at work here.

A friend of mine wears his flag pin everywhere, and while wearing it in Europe got confronted by angry people, because the Americans have placed them in greater danger than here.

I'm humoured by all the administration flunkies wearing them, yet nary a one of them has any service to support the chest-beating and patriot trumpeting.

And spare me Bush's military record!

Hiding out in the National Guard does not constitute a record. Especially when you consider his "just happening" to move to Alabama weeks before his unit deployed to Asia!

Obama is right, he decided not to wear it because he is not patriotic. I would never vote for him!!!!! USA USA USA

Mr. Obama is not ready for the presidency. One thing Hillary took away from her time as First Lady is a sense of the weight, enormity, scrutiny that comes with this position. The world is watching every word, every gesture our president makes. We all know what it feels like to see someone abusing a symbol you believe in. Christians know it. Homosexuals know it. Most of us (I assume) would like a president who overrides this first impulse because he believes the commonality, the unity, the breadth and width of the symbol supersede our first, personal reaction as an individual. The flag is much larger than Iraq. It is much larger than you or me or George Bush or Barack Obama or Republicans, Democrats or even the United States in 2007. It is simply and wonderfully a symbol, encompassing all of those things and more. The fact that Barack doesn't understand this, or at least have the instinct to pause and consider it before doing something that you and I as non-presidents may find inconsequential, separates him as one who isn't ready to be the single most powerful individual in the world. Think about it. It is a quitter's impulse. He should put the pin back on because of what he wants it to symbolize and what it will symbolize as he likes to say, "when I am president."

Mr.Obama needs to do the right thing. The flag symbolizes alot more than just the heart.

Obama is already behind in polls. Not wearing this pin as a "patriotic symbol" will only alienate those undecideds further. Not a smart move, Obama!

Wow. Have we become so petty and distracted? Wake up people, before we are dupped into electing another W.

Barack Osama has shown his true colors. Wearing a pin doesn't make you patriotic, but no patriot would REFUSE to wear the symbol of freedom that so many have given so much for.

To Maria in New Hampshire:

You're the first in your family to walk erect, right?!

Well certainly you've won a Pulitzer for literature?!

Nice post, now review the elite way the GOP is treating immigrants coming to this country, other than working in their plants for slave wages, that is.

a really good reason to look deeper at obama. i think i may be voting for him now. i am sick of pins and titles identifying our country. we should be doing things not claiming things. besides why say im an amercian why can we say that we are from earth?

Angela from Athens Georgia,

I think you are an idiot. That kind of close-minded, blind racism will lead to the downfall of our country. Are you seriously not willing to vote for someone because they have a foreign name?

I'm guessing you didn't get a lot out of history class when you were in school, but perhaps you'll remember that George Washington did have a foreign name. He had an English name.

If you mean he doesn't have an Anglo-saxon name, you right…and a bigot. Remember, you do not belong here anymore than any other citizen of this country. And with racist comments like those, I would say you belong here a lot less than most.

I also don't wear the pin on my chest, of course I never did, and I certainly wouldn't wear one to say I support America. Of course I support America. I don't need a pin and neither do you. Unless you sell pins of course. Then, this a story you care about.

For people that say they use this as a factor in deciding who to vote for. HAHAHAHAHAHAHA!!! You make me laugh. It's OK not to want to vote for Obama because you disagree with his policies. I compared the major democrats based on that among other things. That's why I will be voting for Obama for President.

Phony. The guy wouldn't be in office if not for Jeri Ryan's divorce being made public.

And people want to vote for this man for President because???? NOT ME! I will show my patriotism by not voting for him!

What the Senator fails to mention is that Patriotism is not an either/or statement! You can still "act" Patriotic and wear the pin! I am sorry that it is so difficult for Mr. Hussein to wear an American flag pin on his chest. Maybe we could get a pin of someone burning a flag for Senator Hussein.

The overuse of the lapel pin after 9/11 began to remind me disturbingly of the common red star lapel pin in the old Soviet era - as if you were somehow not a true member of the party…er, sorry, a true patriot if you didn't wear your lapel pin. I am so relieved to see someone point out that wearing a flag on your suit says precisely nothing at all about your patriotism or love of your country.

For at least 10 years before 2001 I had always used American Flag stamps. I was even a proponent of the flag burning amendment to the constitution. After 9/11, the flag was everywhere, and displayed by people as a sign of unity, and I appreciated that. After a while though, it became apparent that people were using it for fashion, rather than pride, and it wore thin.

For the last few years, I've been using any non-flag stamp. Does that make me any less patriotic? No. Does it make people who say they wouldn't vote for Obama just because he's not wearing a pin any more idiotic? Yes. Think for yourselves people.

He refuses to wear OUR Flag, Hello wake up people!!! Refuse him as OUR president!!

The flag has always been a symbol of pride. If you can't wear it with pride, no matter what, you should not be running for President of the United States.
People wear or profess all kinds of things and exhibit hipocritical behavior. I have concerns about a man who wants to be President who worries about the behavior of others instead of what the flag and the office of President symbolizes to the world. We don't need one more politically correct Democrat or Republican in office. That is true hipocrasy.

You are all a bunch of racist narrow-minded bigots. You hate Obama because he is a Muslim man? Well, you can hate me even more because I am an ATHEIST.

No let all of the "Your Going to Hell" threats start flying.

How many of you have your own flags to fly proudly in front of your home on the proper holidays?

"I distrust those people who know so well what God wants them to do because I notice it always coincides with their own desires." -Susan B. Anthony

He is going to burn the flag next and tell us that the flag means nothing. This is "Obama revealed".

Can someone please take his name off the voting list for the Dems?

Where does it say that he "Refuses" to wear a label pin.

The abuse of symbology is the issue. After 9/11 I was asked by a friend from the Georgia, "What's like in NY." My response was "About the same, just a lot more flags". For months afterwards, cars had flags (made in China) fly from the windows. Then then started falling off into the streets to be run over by other cars. Soon the symbol of our unity became just more debris on the side of the road.

Since most people in this panel say that the pin does not mean anything about the person's values. What would happen if he wore a pin with the Iranian flag instead? Would that speak of his patriotism, or is a pin still just a pin? I'm not voting for him.

What's wrong with the pin? Is it too heavy for him??? He is a presidential candidate and should become an example by doing whatever related to patriotism from small thing to huge ones.

People can't say that the most important is his/her heart, but who knows about our heart?? No one does except God. We are not showing a hypocrisy by just wearing such a small thing. If we want to be hypocrites, we will wear the big things not that a small thing like a pin.

He is not patriotic, he just wants to do maneuver by saying that small pin thing is not important. I don't know what America will be if he becomes the President of The United States of America.

Instead of using our nation's flag, Obama, or his campaign, has created his own symbolic flag…seen it yet? That big a departure just doesn't right with me.

I wear the pin. I wear it with a red, white and blue ribbon. Everyday.
I didn't put it on for 911. 911 as horrific as it was/is, was not my reason. On 912, the other ladies in the office came around and gave everyone a flag pin and ribbon. I held it in my hand and looked at it, then around to my co-workers and watched as everyone put on their pin. Like some kind of badge of honor. I placed in in my desk drawer. Everyday some one would ask me, ”Where’s your pin?” I wondered to myself, why do they want me to wear it? I have never been to New York City. I have no family or friends there. I knew no one that was missing or dead.
One day I looked at the news screen of streaming video on my computer and that’s when it hit me.
We didn’t attack back. We didn’t reach out and touch someone. The Greatest Nation in the World and we did nothing. Oh we threw some bombs a month or so after the fact but no real collateral damage. No Osama. I was ashamed. Saddened. He big smoke but no fire.

The day we went to war with Iraq I put my pin on.
Why? Why then? Because my family is military. My father over 33 years. Both my Ex husbands, lifers. My friends. YOUR sons, husbands, brothers, nephews, uncles, daughters, sisters, wife’s, mothers, aunts, all of them. I hate 911, but it was buffered by distance and TV. But not Iraq. I wore my pin then as I do today.

While I may not support our president. I support every man and woman that is fighting for him.
I support my military. A Military that has fought for MY RIGHT to wear or not wear this pin, currently sitting over my heart with it is tattered ribbon. My flag of pride. My flag of prayer. My flag of honor. Every morning for the last 6 plus years, I put it on and it shows, I thought of you. I took a moment and I actively thought of you and thanked you.

My Tribute. My country. My fellow Americans. My flag flies on my chest everyday. Not for you Joe Public. But for me. So that I remember everyday to thank all of those men and women who gave up their live, families, friends, jobs, homes, children and so much more. So that I wouldn’t have too. Thank you.

Why do you wear your pin?

there are plenty of reasons to NOT vote for Obama, this is not one of them. Thank you CNN for another non-news article.

I didnt read all of the comments..But it should be noted that lapel pin wearing as a "must have" to show loyalty is not uncommon to fascist type nations. The Nazi's did it, Russian Communists, and in North Korea everyone must wear at least one pin
with Kim Jon Il or his father Kim Il
Sung.Your status in the society and
part is all about what pins you have.
Is that what we have become? What
cheap ribbon or flag magnets you have on your car and lapel pins show your
loyalty? Thats what Barack's point is.

I agree with him on this point. In the beginning it was a case of solidarity, and patriotism. However I have never felt that I had to prove my patriotism by wearing something manufactured. I will show it through my deeds and actions.

This notion of Obama not being patriotic is too funny…and here's why: The person whose partiotism should be questioned is occupying the White House right now. This Georgie Bushie-man is directly responsible for the deaths of thousands of American troops that he sent on a wild WMD goose chase in the Middle East, has ruined America's reputation around the world, has made the executive branch look far worse than Clinton ever did by bringing this bunch of hoodlums from Texas to occupy his cabinet and key positions, and has shown that he's no more than an ineffective poster boy for the Republican Party. His piss-poor poll ratings shows a lack of support, confidence, and trust on behalf of the American people. If he loved his country, he would have resigned four years ago. Now there some real news for you!!

To Eric in Newtown, PA:

Drudge and The Truth in the same sentence?

Not even in the same room, my friend!!!

Not one day goes by where I am even less impressed by the major media outlets like CNN, NBC, and CBS. This story is such a non-story it isn't even funny. Let's pick on Obama's haircut, suit choice, or use of verbology to portray him as unpatriotic, divisive, or some other vulgarity.
Obama is a fresh breath of common sense that our current administration has lacked…

Mr Obama needs a history lesson….this country is already great and I don't need any politician to tell me that. I'm already tried of hearing what bad shape this country is in from politician on both sides of the isle, but especially from our Democratic brethren. If it is so bad here…why do we have an illegal immigration problem? Hmmmmm…..could it be they what to come to a great country?

What a stupid thing to waste time with…I'm almost embarrassed for
commenting….however bush & the
neocons are wearing the wrong flag
anyways….might they be better off
wearing the white flag with the blue
star on it

Who cares?

huh?

If he thinks it means nothing to wear a U.S. flag pin,then why should you think he will even support it if he was to be elected C.I.C. He is one of Hillary's biggest supporters and doesn't know it.

Well, if you are counting–that's it!
NO vote for Oba! And I don't like Hillary , so I guess it's Rudi.
Carol Young

Good for you. I'm sick of pin and sticker companies making millions for no reason.

WHO CARES!!! This man is running for President of the United States of America….how patriotic can he get. It just shows how the American general public care more about whats on the outside not the inside. Wake up people, there is more to worry about then just a pin!!!

I'm sorry but a patriot makes the effort to support a nation at war. By conciously choosing not to wear the pin is more of a sla[ in the face than those who wear it without "meaning it."

The fact that George W. Bush wears a lapel pin is the main reason I won't, because unlike our dear "Connecticut Cowboy," I served, proudly, and he didn't; but now he wears it like a slogan!

Bush's approval rating overseas is at 9% - per Reuters, International!

Oh, I know, they're stupid; Bush is always right, blah, blah, blah…!!!

Somebody help me! is this Foxnews? I don't know the difference anymore.

Yet another of CNN's attempts to disparage Barak while they promote Hillary. CNN has been pro-Hillary since before the first Democratic debate, when CNN's headline implied that it was a debate where only Hillary mattered- before the debate even started.

Bravo, no need to feed into the Republican fear tactics. 9/11 should be remembered but not thrown into everyone's face every day.

I still say you should join with Hiliary…

To Kevin in KC:

Bush wears a pin, and he gave so much/served where?

But thanks for checking in….

it is about the pin. Any chance we as Americans can display how proud we are to have our liberty. Ask the guys at Iwo Gima, Bastone, or KeSan about displaying the flag…. The US flag gets burned enough..why not support it…

I'm not ashamed to wear the flag pin. Don't muslims eschew jewelry? Maybe that's why.
Posted By deucebollards : October 4, 2007 9:18 pm

People who root for a favorite team like the TB Bucs wear there teams apparall in support of that team. Maybe Barack Obama won't wear the pin because he truly isn't an American, he's a Muslim at Heart.
Posted By RA MILLER, TAMPA, FL : October 5, 2007 11:49 am

If you feel you are a patriot, then you would not shun our flag because of what others do. Is this more of a devotion to the muslim community? This man cannot be trusted.
Posted By Kim, CT : October 5, 2007 12:22 pm

For the last time, people, Obama is not a Muslim, he's a Christian!

And since when does religion have to do with patriotism, anyhow?!

i love barack obama for everything he is and everything he represents.

your title for this article makes him sound like a traitor, when he is actually the exact opposite.

as a lifelong registered republican who has abandoned the new world order philosophy of the republican party and the current administration, i am offended that you constantly misrepresent the truth in order to retain an increasingly sceptical audience.

cnn has become the tmz of news journalism.

THATS WHY HE ISN'T GOING TO WIN THE DEMOCRATIC PRIMARY! LOSER.

I THINK IT IS A DISGRACE TO THE AMERICAN PEOPLE AND THE MEN FIGHTING FOR THIS COUNTRY THAT HE DECIDED TO TAKE HIS AMERICAN FLAG PIN OFF. I WOULD NOT VOTE FOR HIM UNDER ANY CIRCUMSTANCE,

ASHAMED IN KENTUCKY

I am concerned what is in His heart? It concerns me that people are considering a person who aligns with the very triranny we are defending our nation. A Religion that would like to desimate America, What is really in His heart?? I am very concerned.

He refuses to wear OUR Flag, Hello wake up people!!! Refuse him as OUR president!!
Posted By Lynne, Watkinsville GA : October 5, 2007 12:31 pm

You see, Lynne, that's exactly the kind of faux patriotism that Obama was alluding to. Thanks for proving his point.

I have to say that I respect him for this. He is right as to people putting on American flag pins and then treat others disrespectfully.
It is no different than people that claim to be christian who put a "I love Jesus" bumper sticker on their car and then drive around cutting people off in a wreckless manner.

Yah right, who do you think we are to believe you? Should have had a better answer!

Just another controlled media ploy to distract brainwashed Americans, while
the same ornery cr*p takes place behind
the scenes….Unfortunately, it seems
like it always works….

Why is CNN still regurgitating this unless they have some political slant??? shouldn't you question why a candidate wears them and ask them what being patriotic means to them???

Maybe, if there were still a concept such as journalistic integrity, ask Bush what principles he is supposed to be defending by his blatant attacks on sovereign nations who have nothing to do with our security….and torturing innocent civilians..

Bush used doubletalk constantly, now refusing to prosecute shady paramilitary organizations who are civilian on one hand so do not have to respect any military laws, and now on the other hand are military when asked to account for their actions in civilian court…

what kinds of alice in wonderland are we living in???

Isn't what the slimeball in charge more important?? Shouldn't we be questioning Bush's integrity???

Obama has morals and principles, and knows what being truly patriotic means, not King George who says if you don't attack a sovereign nation over lies, you are unpatriotic….

Bush is a slimeball…try to focus on the real issues, such as who will get us OUT of Iraq, who WILL insure children in this country…who WILL create REAL jobs BESIDES the inflated military in this country??? Why is it 90 degree in NY in OCtober since, according to the White House, global warming, human-induced or otherwise, is a myth???

This is a ridiculous article. Please try to think of something more important to write about other than whether or not he wears a pin on his chest. You are looking for trouble that isn't there. I'm not even going to vote for him, but this is just stupid.