December 27, 2007
Posted: 06:30 AM ET

Watch scenes from Huckabee's hunting outing Wednesday.

WASHINGTON (CNN) — It's become a campaign staple for all presidential candidates: perform an activity that demonstrates 'regular-guy' status.

Republican Mike Huckabee took his turn Wednesday, going on a pheasant hunt in Osceola, Iowa during which the Arkansas governor made it clear he is no stranger to the great outdoors.

"Maybe it will show that I certainly understand the culture of being outdoors," he said of the expedition. "It's not something we had to go out and get a primer in. It's very much ordinary to me."

Huckabee's team brought back three pheasants — one of which the candidate claimed he personally shot — and promised they'd be "cleaned and eaten."

Huckabee, who polls show continues to hold onto his lead in Iowa eight days before the state¹s caucuses — also joked the trip could serve as a metaphorical campaign message.

"Don't get in my way," he said while pointing to the three dead birds.

"This is what happens…You vote for me, you live. You don't…there you go."

Huckabee said he was as a lifelong hunter, a statement that harkened back to rival Mitt Romney's similar claim earlier this year. The former Massachusetts governor later backtracked from that statement, saying he had only hunted "small varmints" occasionally.

Huckabee's rise is fueled in part by his "normal guy" appeal, and the governor took the opportunity to reinforce his heartland roots.

“People in Middle America feel like folks will come and campaign in Iowa, and then they get elected and they forget that people out here in flyover land still exist," he said. “Some of us grew up in the middle of the country and still live here."

– CNN's Alexander Mooney and Dana Bash

Filed under: Iowa • Mike Huckabee • Mitt Romney


Jarod, Raleigh, NC   December 26th, 2007 4:01 pm ET

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_OrE6IusJ1U - cnn exposes huckabee

Todd C. Wilmington, DE   December 26th, 2007 4:06 pm ET

Lord help us.

Please don't let the american people be fooled in voting for this idiot.

Jarod, Raleigh, NC   December 26th, 2007 4:09 pm ET

Huckabee - a history of poor judgment

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xBwC1dKuAyE

terri   December 26th, 2007 4:09 pm ET

"This is what happens…You vote for me, you live. You don't…there you go."

Oh, Jon Stewart, how much fun you could have had with that. God, I wish that strike would end!

Frank Mayans, Los Angeles   December 26th, 2007 4:10 pm ET

OMG he is playing the "Gender Card"!

Me in Texas   December 26th, 2007 4:14 pm ET

Oh, here we go… now the deal is closed… We just need it a picture with a gun in hand to get that so important part of the GOP voting block…I am taking about the Conservative, “intellectual”, highly educated, Christian controlling part of the Republican Party. He should have taken the VP and spare us from the possibility to have this buffoon from moving into the Whitehouse.

Seattle, Washington   December 26th, 2007 4:16 pm ET

Why on earth would a person kill God's creation without a need? I thought this man belived in commandment #5 that says "thou shalt not kill". It does not say anything about murder, it implies about the law against needless killing. Mr. Huckabee took the life of a creature of God for no other reason then to show he is a so called sportsman. He should be ashamed of himself.

Aldo, Silver Spring, MD   December 26th, 2007 4:16 pm ET

In order to be a "regular guy" you need to shoot and kill something?

That's low-brow, unenglightened thinking.

Making things worse, Huckabee is telling us we'll be killed if we don't vote for him and that if you get in his way, you'll end up dead like the birds? I'm sure the birds were a real threat to him.

He's off my short list.

Eric, Summerville, SC   December 26th, 2007 4:20 pm ET

This is good. "To prove that I can be President, I'll go out and shoot something." Is this the only criteria now?

Scott, Toledo OH   December 26th, 2007 4:20 pm ET

I suppose it is a little more humane that his usual family tradition of hanging and torturing a dog, and then covering it up.

Tom A, Leawood, KS   December 26th, 2007 4:23 pm ET

why is this not a surprise? When I saw the ticker that stated "presidential candidate goes hunting", I knew it would be this right wing candidate. No one else would do anything this risky to just court their base…this pheasant hunting sounds familiar to another person; is this to say that things will be more of the same with Huckabee?

Tewde, FL   December 26th, 2007 4:24 pm ET

woow, CNN.
the world is coming to an end, a candidate killed a pheasant!!! woow, what important news for people to know, life changing news, huh CNN

Joe, Charleston, SC   December 26th, 2007 4:26 pm ET

Wow! Huckabee now is adding gun-toting country bumpkins as his supporters, in addition to fundamentalist, right-wing Christians. That's progress.

Disappointed Cape Coral FL   December 26th, 2007 4:27 pm ET

I sort of liked Huckabee but am completely turned off by men who enjoy killing things especially when they are catering to the macho crappolas of the NRA.

Angel, Los Angeles of Anaheim   December 26th, 2007 4:28 pm ET

Did he hang and stone the dog that brought it back to him , too?

HOORAY for HUCKABEE!!!

Common Sense   December 26th, 2007 4:29 pm ET

"Maybe it will show that I certainly understand the culture of being outdoors,"

Gimme a break. This guy gets manicures for 300 bucks a pop weekly. If the pheasants hadnt themselves been trapped and released 5 feeet away from this guy the only thing that you would have been able to track on his hunting trip would have been the 3 mile sent trail left by his cheap cologne. Doesn't killing animals for sport conflict with his status as token radical christian in this election?

Steve, Columbia, MO   December 26th, 2007 4:29 pm ET

You gotta be kidding me. Did he just elude to people being shot if they don't vote for him?

If he wants to play President he's going to need a lesson in carefully choosing his words.

Janet Kern, Hewitt, NJ   December 26th, 2007 4:30 pm ET

WOW!!! what a man you you are. I'm soooo not impressed. Really I'm not. Does it really make you feel that good to kill an animal, Mr. Huckabee? Well I guess "there I go" because you sure won't get my vote.

GRACE   December 26th, 2007 4:31 pm ET

FIGURES HE'D WANT TO KILL SMALL ANIMALS
THE APPLE DOEN'T FALL FAR FROM THE TREE

JorgeM   December 26th, 2007 4:33 pm ET

So what? He's still a religious fanatic.

Anonymous Independent in New England   December 26th, 2007 4:34 pm ET

Shoot, if Huckabee didn't have such a nonEvolution platform, I might even vote for him. He's a hoot.

Do y'all think he got a few pointers from Dick? ;)

PLEASE nominate McCain so I will have someone to vote for if perchance Obambi gets the nod!!

jay   December 26th, 2007 4:36 pm ET

Did he have a hunting license?

Jonah, Boston MA   December 26th, 2007 4:38 pm ET

How does killing animals for fun represent "the culture of being outdoors?" Don't get me wrong– I'm no PETA nut. But when I think of being outdoors, I think of playing basketball, or hiking, or having a barbeque. I don't understand why the term "outdoorsman" means "hunter" by default. It's all part of an effort to legitimize a stupid pasttime. This is why we need to protect gun rights? So simpleminded rednecks can wander around the woods shooting birds? Get outta here.

Darth Vadik, Diamond Bar CA   December 26th, 2007 4:39 pm ET

Ahhhhhh the Lords people, they are such killers, aren't they. At least Huckster didn't kill 70 pheasants in one single hunt, like Dick Cheney.

…and what is it about Republicans that they have to show how macho they are, from I'd double gitmo to, only I can kill the terrorists, to I hunt and kill vermin. What are they making up for?

…and it always ends up as "hey I'm just a regular guy who you would like to have a beer with at the end of the day"….

…well you know what, I don't want a regular guy in the white house, I want an exceptional guy, or girl, who is not overcompensating for stuff that his, or her, issues.

To Huckster, and the rest of the Republicans, for God's sake, please get e therapist and stop punishing us for your shortcomings.

Sheila, NYC   December 26th, 2007 4:39 pm ET

Funny, a "regular guy" who'd get my vote wouldn't kill helpless animals in an empty ritual to get votes. I know Kucinich wouldn't dream of stooping that low. Are "regular guys" that insecure?
P.S.: I'm not against gun ownership, so relax.

John Gustafson   December 26th, 2007 4:39 pm ET

I will not vote for any presidential candidate posing as a NRA poster wanabee. Huck was not hunting for sport but for only votes.

Blayze Kohime, Columbus OH   December 26th, 2007 4:40 pm ET

Why would I want someone to be President if they were only a normal guy? Shouldn't a President be above average, even extraordinary?

Shawnie - Grants Pass OR   December 26th, 2007 4:44 pm ET

So now Huck-a-bigot is the "real" hunter? Please! Romney just picked up a huge endorsement in NH - The Republican house Leader…that outdoes a pheasant any day.

Mike O   December 26th, 2007 4:52 pm ET

When Fred Thompson goes hunting, he doesn't need the shotgun. He just glares at the bird and it falls from the sky, dressed and cooked.

OK, people a little humor is in order for the silliness of campaigning. It is, after all, 'silly season'.

JB post falls id   December 26th, 2007 4:53 pm ET

Good for him. This is a lame story but pheasants are tasty.

Adam, Bedminster, NJ   December 26th, 2007 4:55 pm ET

You never know when one's skill as a marksman might come in handy when you are President

Anonymous   December 26th, 2007 4:55 pm ET

Huckabee has pulled the same hunting crap as many others, and believes that it'll cement his position and earn the pro-gun vote. Hunting is an entirely different subject and can't be linked to gun ownership.

Tommy, New Port Richey FL   December 26th, 2007 4:57 pm ET

I can not believe he said that I am a life long Republican and I wasn't planning on voting for Huckabee and now I hope others won't. To even jokingly say if you don't vote for me this will happen refering to dead animals is ridiculous! I hate to see my party being hijacked by the over-zealous religious right!

David Johnson Kansas City   December 26th, 2007 4:57 pm ET

Are we supposed to be impressed? Or are we supposed to laugh?

D. Carlisle   December 26th, 2007 4:58 pm ET

This guy is a pathetic joke. America, please don't this man's Christian lip serive and NRA appeal fool you. Do your homework…do not vote for Huckabee.

Chris, Jacksonville, FL   December 26th, 2007 4:59 pm ET

I more I see Huckabee the more I really, really dis-like this guy.

What a creep.

And I am a Republican.

FV, Tampa, FL   December 26th, 2007 5:01 pm ET

Thou shalt not KILL there Preacher man..

thou WILL however come off like an bucktoothed redneck to secure that highly coveted Inbred Iowan vote!

Scott, Winston-Salem, NC   December 26th, 2007 5:03 pm ET

Here we go again; yet another wimpy, cowardly MURDERER who can't get his rocks off any other way except by killing an innocent, inoffensive living being. This moron piece of walking human garbage calls himself Christian? You will NEVER see my vote, Mr. Huk-a-moron. And I WILL get in your way; every chance I get. Care to turn your weapons against ME, you cowardly piece of trash?

Surrealist, Fort Myers, FL   December 26th, 2007 5:03 pm ET

What a Kook!!

I cannot believe anyone takes this "snake oil salesman" seriously.

FYI–Gun dude–while many Americans do own guns–the number that use them for hunting is much smaller than the total guns out there.

Sport shooting, home defense–makes up the majority of owners that I know. Most Americans know they can get all the "game" they need from the supermarket!! There's no need to go out an shoot birds flushed out by "flunkies" or dogs.

What does anybody see in this Repulo-Crat.

mike kaplanh   December 26th, 2007 5:05 pm ET

We just had 8 years of a president who was elected (twice!) largely because of the idea that the more religious candidate will be better for the country, and also because he did a better job of pretending to be a "regular guy", or a "guy you'd like to have a beer with".

And look what that got us. I sincerely hope that at least some of us learned some lessons, and won't get fooled again.

I don't want to hear any more about a candidate's religious beliefs- we already know more than we need to know. And please spare me the nonsense about what a "regular guy" he is. The presidency requires much more than a "regular guy"- the last 8 years have proven that.

jay morse Butte, MT   December 26th, 2007 5:05 pm ET

What a stooge! Even Hillary would have no problem beating this guy in a general election. If you think we have a president now who thinks it is his duty to the nation in a modern day Crusade, just imagine what you would get with Huckabee. I don't think the U.S. could withstand 4 more years of this.

Craig Finnegan   December 26th, 2007 5:05 pm ET

"This is what happens…You vote for me, you live. You don't…there you go."

-Mike Huckabee, to a bunch of (American) pheasants.

Bukky Balt MD   December 26th, 2007 5:08 pm ET

Why is it that you never see a Democrat shooting defensless animals. It is Not OK to kill things for fun. People wonder why IDIOTS go "hunting" in malls. Stop shooting animals for the shear fun of it and maybe kids will stop shoot people for the fun of it…

Farrell, Houston, Tx   December 26th, 2007 5:08 pm ET

This is the worst photo opportunity Huckabee could have taken. Our soldiers in Iraq are using weapons to stay alive and Huckabee is sporting his weapon for pleasure. Huckabee is a fraud and an idiot. GWB has more sense than Huckabee on Christmas day.

Jay Howard, Atlanta, Georgia   December 26th, 2007 5:09 pm ET

Sorry, Mr. "Hickabee," but the vast majority of American males don't feel the need to kill small animals to prove their manhood. If you want to be the fundamentalist redneck moron candidate, have at it, but don't claim to be a "regular guy." That's an insult to the rest of us.

Jack Barnes   December 26th, 2007 5:09 pm ET

"This is what happens…You vote for me, you live. You don't…there you go."

Wow. Couple this with his comment about his opponents committing suicide with razor blades, and you really begin to wonder exactly what is wrong with him.

Sammy, Bloomfield NJ   December 26th, 2007 5:11 pm ET

Wow.. Where is PETA (aka Idiots) on this issue.. If it was Mike Vick.. it would have been uproar..

Pixie, Murfreesboro, TN   December 26th, 2007 5:13 pm ET

OMG look at Huckabee playing the gender car by pandering to white men! What a calculating opportunist!!! Does his cold ambition know no bounds???

lol

Hansen, Boise, Idaho   December 26th, 2007 5:23 pm ET

He just lost my vote thanks to his contrived "media moment." Hunting will be a sport when the animals are equipped with guns, ammo, spotlights, telescopes, SUVs and a dog. Until then, it's just killing.

Mindy, NY, NY   December 26th, 2007 5:23 pm ET

Isn't this guy pro-life? Isn't this a bit contradictory? I'm not saying whether I'm pro-life or pro-choice…but just pointing out the irony.

sal lincoln nebraska   December 26th, 2007 5:25 pm ET

You shouldnt be elected just because you called the midwest fly over land….Why would you call an active part of the united states fly over land? I was in dallas texas and the lady at the bank of america didnt have nebraska in the computer….I was also in dallas and the young lady this time at western union didnt think nebraska was in the united states….Meanwhile a guy from arkansas, which you couldnt get anyone to go their if you tried even if just passing through is refering to the midwest as fly over land…Anyone who shares this point of view and uses this terminology is a pathetic example of what american produces and the ignorance the represents us

Melissa, MA   December 26th, 2007 5:25 pm ET

I didn't even need to read the article, I figured it would be him.

Good job, you can kill a bird, that must mean you can run the country.

Shawnie Cannon, Grants Pass OR   December 26th, 2007 5:27 pm ET

He looks just like Jim Nabors (Gomer Pyle) and his political sophistication matches.

Virginia, Leesburg Fl   December 26th, 2007 5:29 pm ET

This is discusting. This is what we should aspire to? Killing anything is wrong for anyone, but especially as a public figure who should be setting an example as he attempting election for the highest office in the country!

Jimmy, Beaumont, TX   December 26th, 2007 5:30 pm ET

I like the way these are moderated….it is obvious that the Communist News Network put nearly all left wing weaklings' comments about this article. So typical of CNN. I certainly don't expect to see this comment.

Go Huckabee! Little Rock, AR   December 26th, 2007 5:31 pm ET

LOL. It was a joke! Geez you people with your comments about — "oh, did he just say that if we don't vote for him, he will shoot us?" Duh! I'm sure he is going to shoot you– yes. Typical touchy Democrat.

Owen Anderson, Woonsocket SD   December 26th, 2007 5:33 pm ET

Hunting is normal. Has been from the beginning of mankind and before. So he's a normal Joe when it comes to hunting and hunting rights. What is so hard to figure out? Also, I believe it is quite obvious he was joking about voting for him or getting shot, not the funniest joke I've ever heard, but I shouldn't have to point that out that this was joke to intelligent people such as yourselves.

Allen   December 26th, 2007 5:36 pm ET

Well, a "pheasant wing shot" is a far cry from a "lawyer face shot," but I still say this guy has presidential (or vice presidential) potential. ;-)

samuel, ames, iowa   December 26th, 2007 5:36 pm ET

It's not against God's will to go hunting. Read the Bible, you'll see Jesus eating fish after his resurrection. Jesus is sinless, and he ate fish. Remember the Apostles fishing? And Jesus multiplying the loaves and fishes? If you accept fishing, there is no reason that hunting would be wrong. Huckabee said they'd clean and eat them. So that's not breaking the ten commandments, since Jesus wouldn't break his own commandments by eating fish. Sure, Huckabee is candidate for President, I understand that. Huck's saying that he's a hunter, supports conservation, and supports the 2nd Amendment. And this is a contrast with Romney, who has less experience as a hunter.

fergusmom   December 26th, 2007 5:36 pm ET

Don't get in my way," he said while pointing to the three dead birds.

"This is what happens…You vote for me, you live. You don't…there you go."

Gee, that sounds like he is using fear mongering to keep Repubs in the White House, by threatening to shoot whoever does not vote for him. Well, guess I better start planning my funeral, since I will never vote for a killer of defensless animals created by the same God,the republicans worship. Talk about Hypocritical people.

Let the Leaders Lead, Arcadia, Iowa   December 26th, 2007 5:39 pm ET

And NO one was shot in his hunting party. What a nice refreshing change for the party of Politics as usual. Clearly he is a front runner and this will cement the deal.

DWJohnson, Nashville Tennessee   December 26th, 2007 5:39 pm ET

Dear America:

It saddens me greatly that killing animals for sport is seen as a positive for the leader of our country. Writing this, I realize that there are people who will dub me "liberal," "unAmerican," etc. They'll be wrong. I've served in the military, killed enemy soldiers, and am the ultimate family values man. "Hunting" to prove manhood, or leadership, is in fact the ultimate proof of lack of manhood and mindless "followership." Guys like this do not deserve our admiration, nor our vote.
May God Bless America, the real American and real Americans, not pretenders, actors or posers.

DWJohnson

JC, Ohio   December 26th, 2007 5:40 pm ET

In the spirit of giving this holiday season, let me make a POSITIVE statement about Huckabee. Hmmm…let me think…ok, ok…let me think…ummmm…WIT! OK…got one: at least he didn't shoot any lawyers like Cheney! There ya go. Merry Xmas…

Ken Burritt, New Hartford NY   December 26th, 2007 5:40 pm ET

It's a sad state of affairs when someone believes they have to kill a defenseless creature in order to gain popularity. I keep hearing how America is this "shining city of light" that is the apex of enlightenment. Cruelty to animals is not enlightenment and Mike Huckabee is not the leader who would take us there.

Judy Zukoski, Barnesville, PA   December 26th, 2007 5:44 pm ET

Mr. "Normal Guy" apparently didn't anticipate the backlash he'll get from decidedly normal people who happen to care about all of God's creatures. If he's "normal," I don't want to be included in the same category. I'll keep shopping for a candidate who respects ALL life and deserves my vote.

Tim, Cincinnati, OH   December 26th, 2007 5:48 pm ET

He looks like Elmer Fudd in that photo.

Dan H, Farmville, VA   December 26th, 2007 5:49 pm ET

Good for Huck.

It was probably a lot of fun.

Donna, Seattle, Washington   December 26th, 2007 5:51 pm ET

OMG!!! This is The Huckster's "Dukakis Moment"! You know, the one where Michael Dukakis had a photo-op of him riding all macho-like in a tank? That totally sunk him, just as this will sink Huckabee. He looks like Elmer Fudd…what were he and his handlers smoking? But that is fine with me, because Romney is going to get the nomination AND the presidency, so shoot any and everything that gets in your way, Mr. Huckabee! PS- Real "regular men" also clean and eat their own catch/kill…I wonder if he will do the same or have one of his staff do all the dirty work. It's easy to pull a trigger.

D Tappan,NY   December 26th, 2007 5:54 pm ET

When Mike Huckabee was Governor, Arkansas had the worst animal protection laws of any state. His son abused and killed a dog, and Mike Huckabee continues the family tradition of killing defenseless animals. His actions were disgraceful and shameful.

HISTORY REPEATS, NY   December 26th, 2007 5:56 pm ET

is it me or is it in horrible taste for this "minister" to joke around about killing someone if they dont vote for him? i mean i know it is obviously a joke, but isnt that just wrong? and the whole "some of us live in middle america too" statement. we know people live in the middle of the country and thats wonderful but dont try and associate yourself (a politician) to hardworking middle class. and as for the fact that his numbers are rising…..its because the christians were trying to figure out, which republican was more "about jesus". thats it! it has nothing to do with his politics or what he will do for the people its about his "religious beliefs" thats all. and once huckabee stepped forward as a "believer" it basically made the decision for SO many who basically filled the void……america is a mob.

Kristy Sanborn, Buckhorn, Mo.   December 26th, 2007 6:04 pm ET

I guess as long as Huckabee says it in a joking manner, then no one can say he meant it.
How pathetic is this election going to get before its over?

Jose, Orlando, Florida   December 26th, 2007 6:07 pm ET

How revolting…

Biologist Hunter Kearney Ne.   December 26th, 2007 6:08 pm ET

Ah the bleeding hearts of the world denigrating a regular guy doing a little hunting with photo ops! Horrors ,such unsophisticated barbarity!Just go back to your "animal vacant" city life and eat your peas and lettuce! You will never have a clue about the real world beyond your self worshipping liberal intellect!By the way aren't those veggies just advanced and as deserving of life as any animal? The truth is it's all biology ,the taking of life to sustain your own not withstanding the ethics and morality quirks of the human mind or lack thereof!

Matt Baker, Chanute Ks   December 26th, 2007 6:09 pm ET

I wonder if the hunting dogs were thinking, * Man I hope David doesnt come, but if he did, at least we'd only be shot, not HUNG, STONED and CUTTHROATED!! *

Dorian, Brentwood, Ca   December 26th, 2007 6:10 pm ET

Big He-Man, killing a pheasant with his high-powered rifle. What weapon did the pheasant have? Didn't his son torture and kill an old, stray dog that wandered into camp? So, abusing animals is no big deal in the Huckabee household? And this creep wants to be our president? While this maneuver may have gained him points with gun-slingers and NRA'ers, tens of millions of voters will be turned off by it.

Tyler, Charleston, SC   December 26th, 2007 6:11 pm ET

I dislike Huckabee for many of his polcies, but people need to lighten up. He was joking when he talked about the birds as a lesson. And I doubt he's concerned about getting the votes of anyone who is anti-hunting.

Andy, Tucson, AZ   December 26th, 2007 6:12 pm ET

Wow! What a man.

Aided by a powerful firearm - probably assisted by people out in front, beating the slow-flying, defenceless animals towards the goons with guns.

Such courage. Stick him (or any other `sport' hunter) out there in the wild without their sophisticated weapons, and see how long they last on their own.

Yep - these really are qualities to be admired. Just the type of man we need at the helm of this country.

Is this really what `normal guys' do for fun?

Pathetic.

delawaredem   December 26th, 2007 6:14 pm ET

Did Huckabee just threaten the lives of 300 million Americans?

Yes, I think he did.

Linda, Wentzville, Missouri   December 26th, 2007 6:17 pm ET

"Don't get in my way," he said while pointing to the three dead birds.

"This is what happens…You vote for me, you live. You don't…there you go."

What an ass. He just made sure that I will never vote for him.

Giacomo, Gulfport FL   December 26th, 2007 6:18 pm ET

people, it was a joke!

brian   December 26th, 2007 6:18 pm ET

Don't any candidates fish?

Any, Whitehall, OH   December 26th, 2007 6:21 pm ET

What has our country (not to mention Iowa and S Carolina) been reduced to when people enthusiastically support this sort of candidate?

If by some awful fluke this guy makes it to the White House, the final fate of certain decline and degeneration of our country will be sealed, without a doubt.

Percy F. Lage, Oklahoma   December 26th, 2007 6:22 pm ET

I think I'm beginning to get an idea as to how we can culminate this election process. The Republican candidate and the Democratic candidate meet in Central Park, armed with weapons of their selection, and the one to emerge alive and unharmed becomes the President of the United States. We could also solve our budgetary woes by hawking tickets, creating betting pools and selling soft drinks, popcorn and pheasant cheese balls. If Hillary is the Democratic candidate, she may elect to use Bill in her place. If Obama is the candidate, he may elect to use Oprah in the finals. Any Republican may choose Dick Cheney.

jd, watertown, ny   December 26th, 2007 6:23 pm ET

"This is what happens…You vote for me, you live. You don't…there you go."

With a mouth like that, he is not a presidential material. That is not funny, and will raise eyebrows domestically and internationally.

As usual, his mouth is faster than his brain (actually a weak brain).

Don, Sheridan, WY   December 26th, 2007 6:27 pm ET

Gee, to get to hunt pheasants in Iowa and only get one bird, now that's incompetence! He should have easily limited out, come on Huck, get with the program… ;)

Augie Scott, Somers Point, NJ   December 26th, 2007 6:28 pm ET

Nice hat Huckabee is wearing. He sort of reminds me of Elmer Fudd in that hat. I guess Wabbit season is over, and it's pheasant season now. More Looney Tunes in the White House, how comforting!

red33,cedar rapids, ia   December 26th, 2007 6:30 pm ET

Huckabee is NOT what we need in Washington, despite his hunting prowess.
We need someone who has a proven record, like Romney, who works well with people, and got the Olympics and the State of Massachusetts back in the 'black'. He had to really be a diplomat to get these 2 jobs done.

Mario Preciado, Republic of Panama   December 26th, 2007 6:41 pm ET

Hunters are idiots. If I was an american I would not vote for this man.

NOT a fan of Huckabee in Little Rock, AR   December 26th, 2007 6:42 pm ET

Even die hard Republicans I know in Arkansas can't stand him. We SHOULD be voting for the next President of the United States, not PREACHER of the United States. Just HOW does Huckabee plan on communicating with the Middle East and others who don't share his beliefs?? I'm SO sick of this country voting based simply on whatever religious conservatives tell them to do. Use your brains, America. Oh, and when will the press focus on his SONS????? HAHA Now, there's a real model family. Notice how his amazon wife and kids aren't EVER in the pictures? There's a reason for that. It'll all come out in the end. I'm sick of people like Huckabee running for President because they have God on their side. He's a good speaker because Hellooooooooooo he was a DJ and a preacher!!!!! He can talk the talk, but he can't walk the walk. I would have SOME respect for him if he would have fessed up to his religious illuminated white cross over his right shoulder ad. But, he lied. He knew FULL WELL what that ad was promoting and that the "bookcase" was illuminated like a cross. The ONLY reason he's making a name for himself is because unfortunately it's the religious conservatives who go out in masses to vote. All I can think of is that Green Day song…….American Idiot. I'll be voting for anyone other than Huckabee.

Brian, Orlando, Florida   December 26th, 2007 6:43 pm ET

Shooting unarmed God's creatures is a prereq for the Republican nomination. So is being old, white, male and protestant (so sorry Mitt).

Julie Pergrem Fort Thomas, Kentucky   December 26th, 2007 6:45 pm ET

Tears it for me. I will never,EVER vote for someone who kills animals for sport. I, too, live in the Midwest, but to me, being outdoors means enjoying clean air and sharing nature with all creatures great and small, not killing them. Huckabee is just another rich, Republican white guy trying to show what a great big manly man he is.
Yuck.

Tom, Bellevue, Washington   December 26th, 2007 6:47 pm ET

I want to see Huck present a balanced budget during occupation and an economic downturn, not shoot some birds.

Norm, Sterling, VA   December 26th, 2007 6:48 pm ET

Heh! And what did all of you libs eat for Thanksgiving, meat maybe? How about last week’s lunch? I think one above mentioned a barbeque. I guess you all let those slaughterhouses do your killing for you. You vegans… I thought what you eat have feelings too :-) In any case I am not a hunter and I am dithering on Huckabee. But most of the comments above are pretty shallow, which does not surprise me.

D Mills Garland, Tx   December 26th, 2007 6:48 pm ET

"This is what happens…You vote for me, you live. You don't…there you go."

For some reason everything about this man is scary. If he wins we may see concentration camps in our country housing liberals, feminists, homosexuals and atheists.

Neil - King of Prussia, PA   December 26th, 2007 6:51 pm ET

Great… a bible in one hand and gun in the other.

Jesus, save us from NRA toting evangelical christian politicians.

Buddy, California   December 26th, 2007 6:51 pm ET

A vote for Huck is a vote for a Theocratic form of government! I’m comfortable with that, let’s rock-n-roll!

Bird Life, CA   December 26th, 2007 6:52 pm ET

If Huckabee is cowardly enough to slaughter a helpless pheasant for pleasure with a high power gun, he could be easily convinced to slaughter innocent people who happen to have different values and beliefs under the smoke screen that they posses 'weapons of mass destruction or harbor hopes of obtaining a 'nudlear weapon'.

Consider, birds have mates-for-life too. So killing one, destroys two.

Gary D. Austin, TX   December 26th, 2007 6:53 pm ET

Hmmmm, now this is a charming message to send to America, after we got rid of another dictator that said the same things (Saddam Hussein)…

"Don't get in my way," he said while pointing to the three dead birds.

"This is what happens…You vote for me, you live. You don't…there you go."

Sean Manchester, NH   December 26th, 2007 6:54 pm ET

I'm not a hunter. I understand te need for this type of "culling" of natural herds and flocks, so I can go along with it. I DON'T like reading about 4 year olds who bag bears or the what, 7 year old, who shot "Hogzilla". These folks are morons in their own right, but Mike's hunting trip is totally understandable: it's regional, if nothing less. Leave him be………….Oh, and I'm a democrat.

Jim in Orlando, FL   December 26th, 2007 6:57 pm ET

why is this not a surprise? When I saw the ticker that stated "presidential candidate goes hunting", I knew it would be this right wing candidate. No one else would do anything this risky to just court their base…this pheasant hunting sounds familiar to another person; is this to say that things will be more of the same with Huckabee?

Posted By Tom A, Leawood, KS : December 26, 2007 4:23 pm

Hey Tom,
In the '04 campaign, John Kerry went hunting too, and the cameras were there ….. Doh !!!!

Kudos to any candidate, Republican or Democrat, who stands up for gun and hunting rights. Hey Huck, while you're at it, throw another one on the barbie for me.

Raja   December 26th, 2007 7:00 pm ET

How can one equate killing "pheasants and small varmints" to being a normal guy? And just how can one justify killing in any manner at all? I hope the sensible people of this great country will make tproper decisions, and vote such bumpkins off the list! God save America!

Adam Smith, somewhere in time   December 26th, 2007 7:02 pm ET

This really wasnt a hunting trip it was actually a practice session to prepare themselves for the upcoming war on corporate interests. This is no joke if elected Huckabee and his gun toting redneck followers are planning on a massive attack on greedy outsourcing and un American companies. I recomend you vote for him and get your shot gun ready its the only way to save America from being destroyed by greedy multinationals.

Lee Carter, San Francisco, CA   December 26th, 2007 7:03 pm ET

Ok.. Romney and Huckabee lost my vote when religion became an issue.. Remember this country has separation of church and state. However, we seem to be the only democratic nation where political issues are also religious issues.

Besides,,, I don't believe in killing animals for sport, only for survival if necessary.

Anonymous   December 26th, 2007 7:05 pm ET

He is a disgusting loser. Go home and take care of your son!

GL, NY, NY   December 26th, 2007 7:05 pm ET

If this hillbilly gets the GOP nomination I will lose all hope for this once great nation.

John Phillips, Lake Forest, CA   December 26th, 2007 7:07 pm ET

Did he actually say what is quoted here: "Don't get in my way," he said while pointing to the three dead birds.

"This is what happens…You vote for me, you live. You don't…there you go."

He is actually threatening us with murder if we do not vote for him? Even as a joke, it is bizarre. If I were to say such a thing about the current administration if they didn't pass some legislation or were to veto a bill, what would happen to me? Gitmo, or worse?

Once again, CNN and the MSM are AWOL with anything other than pandering blather.

peace,
st john

Terry, El Paso, TX   December 26th, 2007 7:07 pm ET

Cheap Shot Awards:
First Prize
"I suppose it is a little more humane that his usual family tradition of hanging and torturing a dog, and then covering it up." Scott, Toledo OH

Second Prize
"Did he hang and stone the dog that brought it back to him , too?" Angel, Los Angeles of Anaheim

Brad, from the great state of Texas   December 26th, 2007 7:08 pm ET

Oh my God, who cares? I seriously can't believe people are making a fuss over this, although the pacifistic PETA loons never cease to amaze me. By the way, I'm not a hunter by any means, but I do support hunting within the law.

G   December 26th, 2007 7:10 pm ET

I CAN'T BELIEVE THE COVERAGE YOU'RE
GIVING THIS POOR EXCUSE FOR A CANDIDATE
CNN. HE HAS SO MUCH BAGGAGE… IT'S
JUST A MATTER OF TIME TIL THE NEGATIVE
ADS KNOCK HIM OUT OF THE RACE. COME
ON SWIFT BOATERS. GET HIM

Brian, Syracuse NY   December 26th, 2007 7:12 pm ET

I'm sorry, I thought your article said he shot a peasant, not a pheasant. Carry on.

Nan Bozarth, Wilmington, NC   December 26th, 2007 7:24 pm ET

So, Mr. "ProLife" has to kill an innocent bird to prove he is a man?? What, they don't provide bird "meat" in Arkansas groceries??

This is the most ridiculous "stunt" yet to try to prove oneself "manly" enough for the White House. Sweet Jesus Governor Huckster… Eeewww!!!

David, NC   December 26th, 2007 7:27 pm ET

Just because he was out "hunting for votes" doesn't make him a bad canidate! ALL canidates do photo ops for votes, especially the democratic party. He is a very good canidate with good moral values. Aswell as he supports a Fair Tax! The answer to all our economic problems!

Tim, Lexington, KY   December 26th, 2007 7:35 pm ET

How disgusting. You lost any chance of a vote from me.

John, Boston, MA   December 26th, 2007 7:36 pm ET

"Don't get in my way," he said while pointing to the three dead birds.

"This is what happens…You vote for me, you live. You don't…there you go."

Is this the man you would want running your country? That is the kind of attitude that is going to get this country into trouble. The only decent and honest man running for the Republican nomination is Ron Paul.

Independent in IA   December 26th, 2007 7:36 pm ET

Suspicion confirmed: Huckaburp was God's experiment in artificial stupidity.

In fact, this is an individual who fell out of the 'stupid' tree and hit every branch on the way down.

Daniel, NY   December 26th, 2007 7:36 pm ET

A new general election poll from North Carolina shows that Huckabee would be the strongest Republican against Hillary Clinton, who would be surprisingly competitive in this usually reliably red state. Link to poll.

Tim, Lexington, KY   December 26th, 2007 7:36 pm ET

The fifth commandment is "Honor thy Father and Mother". Six is "Thou shall not kill."

Susie, Newark, Oh   December 26th, 2007 7:37 pm ET

Nice. What a sicko. Kills the birds then compares them to voters - if you don't vote for him - you're dead.

While I have a great sense of humor - I don't get his "joke". It's not funny.

Good enough reason for me not to vote for Huckabee. His mind seems pretty distorted.

Too, he apparently cannot distinguish between a game bird and a "varmint".

Joann, Cranston, RI   December 26th, 2007 7:38 pm ET

The minute I saw that Awful commercial insinuating he killed birds in "cold blood" I made a phone call. I can't believe he thinks this is going to help him. People don't want to see animals (no matter what the species) getting killed for sport, especially in this day and age. I now hate him and will not vote for Huckaby! That commercial is Awful and I hope more people find it repulsive.

Terry, Winslow, AZ   December 26th, 2007 7:39 pm ET

"Cleaned and eaten …" Yeah, right! They went into the trash immediately and he won't see them again. But, as the Good Christian he is, he doesn't respect any life except human. Hey Huckabee, an omelet is simply a collection of chicken abortions. Get it?

Jay, Redlands, CA   December 26th, 2007 7:39 pm ET

This is the hypothetical argument I made during the whole Michael Vick fiasco…and now I have a realistic situation to use. In no way will I defend the actions of Michael Vick for dogfighting, but I find it very ironic that many people who condemned Mike Vick, see nothing wrong with Mike Huckabee killing an animal for entertainment…This country is so devoid of common sense that it is pathetic. I'm sure this issue will not be raised in the media, either.

marty albq. nm   December 26th, 2007 7:41 pm ET

I know this comment wont get posted i know out of desperation you will only post negative comments about this man.why? because he is progun a hunter he has said what he kills he puts on the table and eats there is nothing wrong with that.

Jason, Cola, SC   December 26th, 2007 7:42 pm ET

I used to think that hunting solely for sport was one of the lowest things that a man in the 21st century could possibly do. Now, I know that it is actually "hunting for a political photo op".

Every single day I find something new about Huckabee that absolutely disgusts me.

Schitfer Brain Mobile, AL   December 26th, 2007 7:42 pm ET

Did he shoot any of his mates in the face? That's what I'm looking for in a president.

Dick Cheney '08.

Christian, Tampa FL   December 26th, 2007 7:44 pm ET

He killed a peasant? How do you expect to win the peasant vote if you kill one?!

Oh, wait… Sorry.

wendy thomas   December 26th, 2007 7:47 pm ET

Well, Mike just lost my vote. How sick to have to let one of Gods creatures loose 5 feet away so it can fly in the air for Mike Huckleby to kill. The comments made after sound very much like the Bush Cowboy. Isn't this what we want to gat away from?
W. Thomas. Florida

Dana, Saint Louis, MO   December 26th, 2007 7:53 pm ET

I don't care much about the pheasants - that is canned Republican PR, but his "You vote for me, you live … " quote is despicable. What the heck is that supposed to mean? I find it offensive that he seems to suggest that as president he would harm the portion of the population who didn't vote for him. I don't doubt it.

Greg Clarkston, Michigan   December 26th, 2007 7:53 pm ET

pretty pathetic - another gun toting, shoot-'em up insecurity case… Madison Ave. campaigning at its best. Just what we need again in the white house…why is CNN not giving real air time coverage to all the candidates? Why is, for example, Joe Biden not getting decent time? Do we need to keep feeding the average lack of intellect with these fast-food grade politics? I'd like to read and hear about the inner thinking of all the candidates in reasonably equal bits so I can make my own choices, not some polling organisation's statistical result.

Julie & John in Colorado   December 26th, 2007 7:55 pm ET

Could someone explain to us how threatening the voting public with killing them is supposed to make us vote for this guy? Does ProLife end at birth? Because we're not fetuses or fertilized eggs we're allowed to be killed?

Pleasant.

Bob Miller, Little Rock, AR   December 26th, 2007 7:55 pm ET

I have nothing against hunting, but this man is a fraud. He says he lowers taxes ( but then raises others ), wants to eliminate the IRS ( but then replace it with a sales tax ), shamelessly plays to his religion, is weak on immigration, has NO plan for bringing fiscal accountability to government, ending the war, he lies about having a theology degree, he pardons all the criminals.. I mean, what gives? I look at all these guys, and here I am, still voting for RP.

Paul, SF, CA   December 26th, 2007 7:55 pm ET

Call me naive, but I'd always thought that someone who finds joy in killing small animals a sociapath.

Jeff, Greenville, SC   December 26th, 2007 8:00 pm ET

Hmmm . . . Don't get in my way as the man is holding a gun. Way to teach our kids about "Loving thy Neighbor" Huck.

So when I don't vote for you, I get shot?

Daniel, WA   December 26th, 2007 8:00 pm ET

CNN reporters have nothing else to report. This news is nonsense.

Mark M. Seattle, WA   December 26th, 2007 8:01 pm ET

Too much religion. Now the guns. Add all that to his great ideas for health care - quarantine people with AIDS! Where are the people with vision, compassion, empathy, imagination!

zeferino, chicago, Illinois   December 26th, 2007 8:03 pm ET

Hey, wait a minute. Isn't a pheasant one of god's creatures? Our former minister sure looks happy about ending its life. It makes one wonder whether this Republican will have the same cavalier and casual approach toward ending the lives of young soldiers we keep sending to Middle East.

C. David, Los Angeles, CA   December 26th, 2007 8:04 pm ET

God help our country if it's led by somebody who's proud of his cruelty to animals.

Blake Williams, Little Rock, AR   December 26th, 2007 8:14 pm ET

You know, there are a lot of folks out there that like to go pheasant hunting this time of year. In all likliehood, Mr. Huckabee probably likes to go hunting this time of season, as I am sure many people in rural America do as well. I think this video simply captures Mr. Huckabee doing what he would otherwise be doing were it not a campaign year. And on January 1st, he'll probably be watching DMAC show the world why he should've won the Heisman.

Tom Wilson, Berkeley, CA   December 26th, 2007 8:15 pm ET

Huckabee, what were you thinking?
You just aimed your big gun and shot your support!
Your PR person should be in the unemployment line!
Beware America, Huckabee is a loose canon!
Americans, please aim elsewhere with your vote for President!

Preston Alexander, Boston, Mass.   December 26th, 2007 8:22 pm ET

This pheasant shooting stunt is a perfect example of the type of person I DO NOT WANT RUNNING THIS COUNTRY ANYMORE!!!

Find me someone who CHERISHES and NOURISHES life, not wantonly goes about shooting and killing it.

This guy's a total loser as far as I see it. Go back to the woods, Hucky, and let someone like Al Gore — a man whose mission in life is one of goodness and compassion: this is the type of person this country sorely needs now.

Preston

Scott from Freehold   December 26th, 2007 8:23 pm ET

Wow! What a man he is. How manly that he could shoot an animal from point blank range. Yeah, that gets my vote.

Bobby Sansouci live oak fl 32060   December 26th, 2007 8:31 pm ET

What a bunch of idiots and I'm not talking about Huckabee… First of all, the man simply had a day of hunting and it is nothing new to him. Second,if you eat what you kill then I see nothing wrong with it. The bible speaks of many animals being killed to eat. When is the last time you had a hamburger? Third, no matter what the man did on his day off I can assure you that somebody would have something negative to say about it. Maybe you should look at yourself before you start judging others….

Lush Rimbaud, Ft. Lauderdale, Florida   December 26th, 2007 8:34 pm ET

I hope this is his Dukakis moment, the moron.

Anonymous   December 26th, 2007 8:36 pm ET

Get the hook- this makes me sick. The same people who will vote for him are the ones who put Bush in office.

Carl, Omaha, Nebraska   December 26th, 2007 8:38 pm ET

I'm not against hunting at ALL - but this guy killed some pheasants just to show how MANLY he was?

I'm sorry, but that's sickening.

Jerry in Valdosta, Georgia   December 26th, 2007 8:41 pm ET

Mike Huckabee is the real deal ! This man hails from rural Arkansas where game hunting and fishing is very much a way of life. This isn't like John Kerry who tried to use a hunting trip as a photo op which failed horribly by the way in 2004 ! City people need to get it through their thick head that not everyone else in America lives the way they do.How smart or dumb a person is depends on where in the USA he/she is standing !

Tony G/VA   December 26th, 2007 8:41 pm ET

Besides all of the comments below, his name is HUCKABEE for Christ sake.

David, Boca Raton, FL   December 26th, 2007 8:45 pm ET

Funny how preoccupied people become with something so insigificant as this when their candidate is doing something significant and worse.

I wonder how the ignorant masses fuel their direction-less dribble with so much vigor. Care to share some insight Todd C.?

Had it been Romney, he would had said he had shot pheasant then later retracted it.

Huckabee has been honest about both his triumphs and his slip-ups and there is no reason to not give him the benefit of the doubt.

Erik Viker   December 26th, 2007 8:51 pm ET

I am growing weary of hearing my fellow Americans foolishly say they want a "regular guy" as President. A regular guy (or gal) can't be expected to excel at the most challenging job in the world. We should want our next leader to be something more than just AVERAGE.

For a change, let's insist our next President be WAY ABOVE AVERAGE. Let's insist on intelligence, accomplishment, and extraordinary understanding of history, human nature, and the use of power.

Mark R. Fort Lauderdale FL   December 26th, 2007 8:52 pm ET

Here's the sad thing; this will help convince a significant number of people to vote for him.

john, NY,NY   December 26th, 2007 8:58 pm ET

I never had any opinion of Huckabee however this is YUCK. SOrry not into killing innocent animal for the sake of sport.

Ken in Orlando   December 26th, 2007 9:04 pm ET

He looks like Tony Soprano.

frank, port richey, florida   December 26th, 2007 9:10 pm ET

like it or not, this kind of stuff flies with the american people. the rest of the world is right - we deserve everything we get.

Ryan, Seattle WA   December 26th, 2007 9:13 pm ET

I don't want my president to be a 'normal guy'.

Ginny, Byron, CA   December 26th, 2007 9:15 pm ET

It's stomach-turning to think that Huckabee's fat, ugly face might be the last thing an animal sees before it dies. I'm sure hunters and NRA fanatics see no problem but, believe me, millions of other voters do. This, coupled with his son's torture of a stray dog, tells volumes about Huckabee's family values and Chrisian morals.

Beau Carter, Denver Colorado   December 26th, 2007 9:18 pm ET

If he was hunting, which he was, don't spin the story by saying that he killed something first!!! Just say that he bagged a bird hunting or something…the pure notion that you tried to corner him as a killer is absurd. I am not a hunter, but I am all for people doing what they enjoy. If he likes to hunt and shot something in the act…good for him. Please don't spin a title to murder story!!!!!

Craig Finnegan, Madison, Wisconsin   December 26th, 2007 9:21 pm ET

Let me get this straight here….I'm supposed to be more likely to vote for someone to be President of the most powerful country on earth because he knows how to kill birds as well as my nephew in elementary school…is that it?

joeb, Louisville, KY   December 26th, 2007 9:22 pm ET

Normally, I vote the Republican ticket. However, if this idiot wins the Republican nomination, I am voting for Hillary!

Amanda, Sposylvania, Virginia   December 26th, 2007 9:28 pm ET

People who kill innocent pheasants do not get my vote.

Think you gained support by this inane show? Well, you also lost support. Congrats, you idiot.

Nick , Toronto, Ontario   December 26th, 2007 9:33 pm ET

I cannot imagine Mr. Huckabee sitting down to a dinner of pheasant. I picture him more as someone who would be out shooting squrrels and possums for vitals.

Bill, Columbus, OH   December 26th, 2007 9:33 pm ET

Wow, so much to take away from this:

- Huck is certainly tough on terror. I mean, he killed an innocent animal.

- He can fearmonger with the best of them. He uses dead animals to warn his opponents.

If this is "regular," I'll happily be the direct opposite.

James, Alexandria VA   December 26th, 2007 9:34 pm ET

Wow, is CNN apart of the Huckabee campaign too? It seems like everytime this guy sneezes CNN runs a story on him.

Well I guess it makes sense for CNN to give Huckabee some exposure since his campaign is failing miserably at raising money and cant buy any airtime.

Why not run a story on what the candidates are going to do to get this country out of debt?

Ron Paul is the only one who can save us now.

jd, syracuse, ny   December 26th, 2007 9:35 pm ET

He looks like Elmer Fudd in the picture ;-))

Eric, Stillwater, MN   December 26th, 2007 9:35 pm ET

Why does Huckabee get away with saying things like he does? First he says "Paul is dead, Paul is dead", a thinly veiled threat to Ron Paul who critisized his use of the cross in his TV ad. Then he suggests anyone polling in single digits but who raises millions of dollars (Ron Paul again) should commit suicide. Now he suggests people vote for him or they will be killed. The more Huckabee talks, and the more I learn about him, the more I am scared of this guy.

Inga Sherrill, Hanceville, AL   December 26th, 2007 9:36 pm ET

I would have liked to seen the birds prepared and cooked… perhaps even gotten the receipe. That is the mark of a true hunter.

d of austin   December 26th, 2007 9:37 pm ET

lame.

Tracy, Atlanta, GA   December 26th, 2007 9:38 pm ET

I'm glad to this disgrace to humanity doesn't really have a chance.

He should have posed in front of a 4×4 truck with a rebel flag to help show off the image (and voters) he's going for.

Debra, Arlington, VA   December 26th, 2007 9:39 pm ET

Gee, I guess we should start arming the pheasants so they can PROTECT themselves against radical christianity!

KW, San Antonio, Texas   December 26th, 2007 9:39 pm ET

You people kill me. A guy shoots a pheasant and now he's labeled as all sorts of things. What about all of you hamburger, chicken, fish, bacon, eating people? How was your dinner killed? Who is more guilty, the assasin or the person who pays the assasin? Please find something else to judge people on. Legally killing a pheasant for dinner is not a crime. I'm sure there is something else to base a voting decision on.

Denver, CO   December 26th, 2007 9:41 pm ET

This reminds me of that old Saturday Night Live bit - "Qui est Mas Muy Macho?"….Duh, let's grab a gun and kill some defenseless animal to prove that we are gun-toting, NRA loving real men and you should vote for us. Gag me!

Rhonda, TX   December 26th, 2007 9:45 pm ET

This is more likely than not where they take the buffoon a tenth of a mile off road either release birds til they get one or stake it down so they can hit it five feet away with a shot gun. How sporting?

Markus, Dallas, texas   December 26th, 2007 9:46 pm ET

wow, he is regular guy because he went and killed a defenseless animal for a picture? That makes him more phony than any other candidate.

Ashley, Lansdale, PA   December 26th, 2007 9:47 pm ET

Because nothing says "Normal guy" like killing a bird on camera to 'please the people'. I'd love to say that I believe Americans won't be stupid enough to vote for a gun-toting, animal-killing redneck, but certain parts of this country have proven in the last 2 elections that yes, there are many that stupid.

PLEASE can we remove the South?

Steve Birmingham, Alabama   December 26th, 2007 9:49 pm ET

He clearly is Republican Presidential material: he hit the pheasant & not a large, flightless attorney.

Brett, Minneapolis   December 26th, 2007 9:54 pm ET

According to the video, Yuckabee goes duck hunting 30 times a season. Yet, this veteran hunter can't figure out how to turn off the gun's safety.

I will not vote for this fool. Can we get back to talking about ISSUES?

Ajay Jain   December 26th, 2007 9:57 pm ET

Iowa Rep. Steve King who was backing the one percent Tancredo is now endorsing Fred Thompson. Fred Thompson sure is catching FIRE!:

http://caffertyfile.blogs.cnn.com/2007/12/20/a-gop-free-for-all/

GOP is still looking for some Godly inspiration. Hucabee is well ahead in this game. If Hucabee is the GOP answer to their prayers then Hillary will have the Presidency sealed in 2009.

Go Hillary44 08! http://hillaryis44.org/

NEWT G CHICAGO, ILL   December 26th, 2007 9:58 pm ET

Is it only me or does this guy look like ELMER FUDD?

Tammy Greensboro, NC   December 26th, 2007 10:02 pm ET

I think I will vote for a Presdent that makes a threat to get my vote. Just what we need, a REDNECK in the White House! Let's all go out and kill something fer supper honey…next thing you know he'll be putting a cement pond in at the White House!

Garry Berman, Westampton, NJ   December 26th, 2007 10:07 pm ET

I'm not very big on people who throw around the word "sin" in everyday conversation. But I will use it myself here. Huckabee, who continues to thrive on preaching his brand of evangelical Christianity in his hope to win the votes of his fellow right-wing extremists, also seems to delight in committing a sin against nature. He kills animals for sheer enjoyment, and doesn't consider that his God might have a problem with that. Well, I do. It's bad enough that this despicable man, whom everyone is calling such a swell guy because of his easygoing attitude,would re-write half of the Constitution if he could, adding an amendment banning all abortions, and another banning gay marriage. He is an ignorant, intolerant backwoods hypocrite who is all too eager to say and do anything, including killing animals, to win the love of people with whom I wouldn't want to be stuck in the same room.
I don't care what kind of a jovial or "regular" guy he supposedly is.
I find him to be an absolutely awful human being.

Mark,Hot Springs Arkansas   December 26th, 2007 10:08 pm ET

Get Over It,hunting is a sport down South.

David, Vancouver, Canada   December 26th, 2007 10:08 pm ET

He takes the press out to watch him snuff the life out of three happily living creatures to appeal to voters. I'm only the only one who thinks that's insane?

Lisa Williams, Bloomington. IN   December 26th, 2007 10:11 pm ET

Despite my vegetarianism, I have respect, for example, for my friend who hunts but does so for food and first purifies himself at a sweat lodge and offers prayers for the spirits of the animals he kills. It is not a sport, and it certainly isn't a freaking photo op designed to promote some idiotic image. Huckabee revolts me with this.

EB Rideout, Georgia   December 26th, 2007 10:15 pm ET

YeeHaw! Good shootin' if I do say so.

That dang 'ol Hukkybee boy shores gonna git my vote! Them thar fesunts put up one heck of a fight, they do.

Now ifin this feller can learn to chew tobakky and walk at the same time he'll carry the whole south, in spite of his full set of teeth.

David, Vancouver, Canada   December 26th, 2007 10:16 pm ET

He takes the press out to watch him snuff the life out of three happily living creatures to appeal to voters. Am I the only one who thinks that's insane?

N.   December 26th, 2007 10:16 pm ET

Think you shot yourself with that one.