Comments on: Byrd won't give up top committee spot

By: Andreas

Andreas — Wed, 09 Apr 2008 14:40:02 +0000

This reinforces the need for age limits for Senators. New blood needs to come in and the Senate refreshed. Look at the bigot and unyielding segragionist Strom Thurmond.
A Senate seat is not a throne but a seat of trust and accountability bestowed by American voters and taxpayers.

By: Gordon

Gordon — Wed, 09 Apr 2008 14:23:35 +0000

TERM LIMITS!!!!

By: Don

Don — Wed, 09 Apr 2008 14:10:26 +0000

Step down? The last remaining sane person in the Senate? He was one of the few who spoke out against the rediculous "war" in Iraq resolution on the floor of the Senate. He's the last real example of what a senator should be!

What, slow news day for the pundits.

By: Vigla

Vigla — Wed, 09 Apr 2008 14:09:53 +0000

Anon,

No one is asking McCain to leave the senate due to his age. He's just too old to be President!

You can't seriously compare a senate job to President of the US... I mean, come on!

By: R1100RTSE

R1100RTSE — Wed, 09 Apr 2008 14:06:34 +0000

You depraved folks chuckle about Byrd's speaking of his love for his dog after the loss of his wife of 50 years, yet fail to comprehend that Byrd was one of the very few courageous Senators who - unlike EVERY presidential candidate who was in office in 2003 - VOTED AGAINST BUSH'S BLOODTHIRSTY NEOCON IRAQ WAR OF OIL CONQUEST that has killed and wounded HUNDREDS of THOUSANDS of PEOPLE. Where is your humanity? He was re-elected to his Senate seat by a landslide by voters of his state. There is no constitutional age limit for Senators. He should remain in office until HE decides he is incapacitated.

By: Willy

Willy — Wed, 09 Apr 2008 14:06:10 +0000

How old did you say – 90 years!!!!! The man can hardly walk and talk at the same time, how can he intelligently represents us. Mandatory retirement is needed for all government officicals.

A great man but time to retire

By: Trev

Trev — Wed, 09 Apr 2008 14:06:04 +0000

President Obama? When was he elected? Pride goeth before the fall.

By: nader

nader — Wed, 09 Apr 2008 14:04:35 +0000

I THINK IT IS TIME FOR OLD GUARDS TO LEAVE AND LET THE YOUNG GENERATION TO LEAD.

By: A Gringo

A Gringo — Wed, 09 Apr 2008 14:04:03 +0000

Not only do I support term limits for rep's and senators I wouldn't even be opposed to age limits and/or so some type of qualifier of experience in local politics (city or state level) before serving in Washington.

Term limits would serve the greater good in breaking up the long term lobbyist ties that career politicans develop. By having a narrow window in which to serve they would hopefully arrive in Washington with a sense or urgency instead of a sense of entitlement.

As far as Byrd goes, respect the man, if you have been to WV then you would know the streets are not paved in gold. He has done nothing more or less with entitlements for his state then your own elected politicans. Pork is pork not matter the amount, but I bet dollar vs years served you would be surprised at how much he has NOT lined WV up for. Respect his expereince, respect the WV voters for sending him back. We all have career politicans, Byrd is no different then the ones you sent abck from your state during your last election. Like the one poster said, we are basically to blame for incumbents.

By: Emma

Emma — Wed, 09 Apr 2008 14:03:34 +0000

Senator Byrd should consider retirement and I agree that if he is as wise as some say then he would realize that his time has past. He probably uses his day job to help him get up each day.

I am so pleased that the President has a term limit......can you imagine John McCain in thirteen years......he will be 90 years old?

By: John Corcoran

John Corcoran — Wed, 09 Apr 2008 14:01:51 +0000

This is the reason we should have term limits for all Congressman! The position should not be an entitlement!

By: anon

anon — Wed, 09 Apr 2008 14:01:44 +0000

Every democrat who said McCain is too old needs to call for Byrd to resign!

By: Nelson Colorado Springs Co

Nelson Colorado Springs Co — Wed, 09 Apr 2008 14:00:01 +0000

It time for Sen Byrd to go, This why we need term limited

By: ECHEWEOZO

ECHEWEOZO — Wed, 09 Apr 2008 13:59:37 +0000

hmmmm he is too old i think but age does not matter sometimes

By: Ed

Ed — Wed, 09 Apr 2008 13:58:36 +0000

Byrd is a breath of fresh air, unafraid of criticizing the new Washington establishment and he has a perspective that is rate, based on days gone by (unfortunately) when this society was a lot better than it is today.

As far as sending money back to West Virginia is concerned, why are there some many nasty posters who seem worried to death about this poor small state getting a fraction of the largesse that this corrupt Republican administration is speading all around among its corporate friends.

Getting stuff for your district is an honest use of political power–stuffing the bank accounts of Halliburton etc. is not.

By: Bart

Bart — Wed, 09 Apr 2008 13:55:25 +0000

I'm sure you have a better photo of Senator Byrd whom I neither like, dislike nor know much about. However, I think he deserves some respect and this photo of him is out of line. I've seen other photos of him and this is not a true representation.

By: George

George — Wed, 09 Apr 2008 12:30:09 +0000

So it was okay for Byrd to join the KKK because all males had to back then if they wanted to be in political office?

Good thing Rosa Parks didn't feel that she had to stay in the back in the bus.

If he had had any guts, integrity or courage he would have said no. This didn't happen in the 1870s.

And no. As long as he can do the duties of a senator, his age should not be a factor.

By: Louie

Louie — Wed, 09 Apr 2008 12:29:57 +0000

Call it ageism – fine, I'm guilty. This guy is TOO OLD.

By: bill in Oklahoma

bill in Oklahoma — Wed, 09 Apr 2008 12:29:17 +0000

In an institution that is based on seniority, why should he give up the post. This was just a few senators in washington, doing the insider way of asking byrd if he was retiring and the answer was a resounding no.

By: Arlingtonian

Arlingtonian — Wed, 09 Apr 2008 12:29:00 +0000

While I have enjoyed hearing Senator Byrd talk about his little dog, Bily, many times, I, too, think he should retire. How many more earmarks can he funnel into West Virginia? Even the Democrat senators are trying toget rid of him; not that they would ever admit it! The Senator should find something else to do. His retirement fund runneth over.

By: Dancindukes

Dancindukes — Wed, 09 Apr 2008 12:28:47 +0000

Retirement age for Congress is reasonable. That does not mean that someone with Mr Byrd's experience could not contribute on some other level. Chair of a powerful committee is inappropriate for someone his age.

His past is his past. If the people of West Va continue to elect him, the rest of the country must accept that.

By: John

John — Wed, 09 Apr 2008 12:25:21 +0000

Out with the old, in with the new. Wouldnt senator Byrd be happier on a golf course in florida?

By: albert

albert — Wed, 09 Apr 2008 12:22:48 +0000

It is time for him to let go of the job. I don't think he can continue to get more pork for West Virginia since it has so much already.

By: Corky

Corky — Wed, 09 Apr 2008 12:22:12 +0000

Byrd was the most eloquent voice against the war and the prez grab for power, the patriot act etc. It is a gift to have this man and his judgment on the committee–any committee. If I live to be 90, I hope I am as wise as him

By: NObama

NObama — Wed, 09 Apr 2008 12:21:43 +0000

Ok so Byrd belonged to a racist organization for about 3 years over 50 years ago. He realized it was wrong, quit and has made amends. When will Obama quit the racist organization he has belonged to for over 20 years?

By: mep

mep — Wed, 09 Apr 2008 12:21:37 +0000

You know, if this man is still able to do the job, he should. All the years of service he has given this country should count for something. Voting against Bush's war should be enough for all you people out there who want to put him out to pasture. Why is this country so afraid of old people and getting old? We've lost so much over the years. Respect for elders, respect for the consitution, respect for most politicians. Respect for ourselves. Cynicism and apathy abound. Time for some real hope to come back. Time for Obama.

By: Joe

Joe — Wed, 09 Apr 2008 12:12:11 +0000

Byrd is 90 years old. He belongs at home with his great grandchildren, not involved in the running of a country with which he is out of touch.

By: jj

jj — Wed, 09 Apr 2008 12:09:23 +0000

why there should be a retirement age for congressmen/women if the people are too dumb or lazy to vote them out.

By: Susan

Susan — Wed, 09 Apr 2008 12:03:21 +0000

Senator Robert Byrd, at 90, is more competent than the rest of the sentate put together. What a kind and gentle man he is! No money taken from lobbyists, no big dinners or trips from special interest people. Yes, he has helped West Virginia – shouldn't he? At least we( WV)don't have a bridge to nowhere as the Republican senator from Alaska proposed. I would trust my United States with him anytime, in any way because he loves it so much! (AND Senator Byrd, in his infinite wisdom, has been against the Iraq war from the beginning) Shame on the Democrats who want him gone!

By: Dave

Dave — Wed, 09 Apr 2008 11:59:33 +0000

A poster child for Pork! What in the world is a Coast Guard facility doing in a land locked mountain state? Only this old codger would do that. I like the statue of himself he had made.

By: BCNU

BCNU — Wed, 09 Apr 2008 11:58:22 +0000

I must echo the words of Mark McKee above. We need to vote out all of the incumbents. That means this year we replace the whole house of representatives (who cares about party affiliation?) and we get rid of 1/3 of the Senate. In six years we have totally fresh blood.

Something to think about for a body that only has a 18% approval rating.

By: AJ

AJ — Wed, 09 Apr 2008 11:55:46 +0000

Good for Sen. Byrd!! They need to replace do-nothings like Harry Reid, Nancy Pelosi and Pat Leahy. Sen. Byrd might be 90 but he gets things done.

By: Diane

Diane — Wed, 09 Apr 2008 11:54:06 +0000

I know one thing about Byrd– he had the wisdom, knowledge and courage to stand up and say no to the war in Iraq. He saw exactly how foolish this little project of the neo-cons was. If we had listened then we would be in much better shape now.

By: Moe, NY

Moe, NY — Wed, 09 Apr 2008 11:52:11 +0000

There really needs to be a retirement age set for politicans along with term limits. I would think that an 8 year term limit would be fair for all elected officials. Just my thought on the subject!

By: Harvey in Va

Harvey in Va — Wed, 09 Apr 2008 11:51:26 +0000

When and if the time comes where he cannot fulfill his responsibilities he will be removed but if his mind is sound and his duties performed then let it be.

By: Wayne, Greenville TX

Wayne, Greenville TX — Wed, 09 Apr 2008 11:51:02 +0000

It's funny and a bit pathetic that so many people responding to this story have to resort to mentioning Sen. Byrd's membership in the Klan. In 1940s West Virginia (as well as all throughout the South), Klan membership was mandatory for men who aspired to political office. Sen. Byrd quit the Klan before most Americans were born, yet so many brain-dead dittoheads us that against him to this day. I guess it shows how little that have to criticize a great man who probably knows more about the US Constitution that Ann Coulter, Mark Levin, and all the other so-called "Constitutional lawyers" put together.

By: richard, Coweta Ok

richard, Coweta Ok — Wed, 09 Apr 2008 11:50:14 +0000

Two words. Term Limits.

By: Robert Suthers

Robert Suthers — Wed, 09 Apr 2008 11:49:43 +0000

Talk about a dynasty! Senator Byrd should have retired years ago. Though he may have done many great things during his time in the senate and really brought the pork home for his state, I think he's overstayed his welcome, as well as many other long term senators have, in the senate. Can you imagine the retirement this guy will knock down every month? They should put every House representative and United States Senator on the social security rolls like the rest of us! I think you would see alot more getting done up there in Washington! Seems to me that they go there just to wield power and get rich off the backs of the working people of our country! One more point! This country needs a 10-year moratorium on any immigration into the U.S.!!

By: Natalie Thorpe

Natalie Thorpe — Wed, 09 Apr 2008 11:47:48 +0000

This man made a serious mistake in his youth, and that is the only thing that anyone can focus on. Most racism in WV is based on ignorance, and when the mountaineer learns things, he or she is capable of change. The fact of the matter is, WV is not a terribly integrated state. That has far less to do with racism than the fact this we are so poor here, with few decent jobs. Senator Byrd has ALWAYS used his position and power to help those who continue to elect him.

This man went to college, and then law school WHILE SERVING in Congress. In the more than 50 years he has been our servant, he has one of the most respected records, is one of the leading authorities on the Constitution, and RARELY misses work. In fact, I defy anyone calling for himto step down to compare his absences against their own Senator and Reps. At least Robert C Byrd has spent his entire life in service to the state, and the country at large.

We will not throw Robert Byrd out of the Senate. He will die in that job, because after such faithful service for 50 years, with one mistake THAT HE HAS CORRECTED, he has earned the right to do so. We love him, and will continue to support him until his 200th birthday.

Go big Daddy! Bring home the Bacon! We be poor here in WV, and that dude living in the White House is killing us, one gallon of gas at a time....

By: scott

scott — Wed, 09 Apr 2008 11:45:54 +0000

I feel sorry for the old in this country. remember the days when we use to respect elders? Now todays generation just want to send them to pasture to die. much like they just drop there kids of at mom & dads No respect just want what benifits them.......
Why doesnt CNN show how B.O. stumbled on his questioning to the Gen. yesterday. and how the Gen. asked him is this what your asking? looked like a rookie. But did have to point out that he was against the war he didnt have to vote for (Gee I didn't Know that)
Hillary was impressive but you wouldn't say that cause she showed real Pres. questioning
McCain was also very professional just didn't say anything worth listening to

By: dmw

dmw — Wed, 09 Apr 2008 11:29:26 +0000

Senator Byrd is one, if not the most renowned Democrat in the Senate. He knows and loves the constitution. Those of you making rude comments about his age, need to show respect.

Americans have become so disrespectful; we are so spoiled as a people, only considering ourselves. This country is in bad shape as far as character of the nation and how we treat one another.

Maybe if the Senators would speak with Senator Byrd as an adult and stop the talking behind his back, then that might be more mature. The Democrats have become a bunch of crybabies.

By: Terry in New York

Terry in New York — Wed, 09 Apr 2008 11:26:28 +0000

Exactly why we need term limits. 90!! come on, retire and place shuffle board somewhere. There's absolutely no good reason a 90 year old man should be involved in our Goverenment operation. We need to quit patronizing these old geezers just because they were here during the revolutionary war.

By: John

John — Wed, 09 Apr 2008 11:24:48 +0000

If he is alert and doing a good job, then why does it matter how old he is. Also, how soon the Republicans forget good ol' Strom Thurman. He left office at 100 years old and never moderated his position on segregation and race. Byrd has 10 more years to go before he catches up up Strom.

By: GD

GD — Wed, 09 Apr 2008 11:19:51 +0000

Mr Pork Barrel is exactly what's wrong with America, why I pay entirely too much in taxes and why we need term limits for Congress. How obvious can the problem be? How pathetic can it get? I have so little respect for our elected leaders. Voted Republican my entire life but they have lost the principles, Dems never had it so now my only avenue may be the Libertarians.

By: semp

semp — Wed, 09 Apr 2008 10:52:08 +0000

He and other looong term Senators should just 'go fishing'! Enuff already.

By: Andrew

Andrew — Wed, 09 Apr 2008 05:24:58 +0000

We are in the greatest period of rapid technological, cultural, political and just plain change in the history of the world. Should we really continue to elect fossils who have not kept up with the times? Strom Thurmond was in office until he was almost a hundred. I think Stevens from Alaska is around the same age as Byrd.

These guys will make laws on things like the Internet, stem cell research and various biological advances, climate change, alternative energy, wireless technology, business in a more interconnected world, the list goes on. Do we really want people who don't know how to use a computer regulating how we do e-commerce? We need innovation, not the same people who have stuck us in the mess we're in, especially the $7 trillion or so debt of our government.

By: MD

MD — Wed, 09 Apr 2008 00:47:07 +0000

Great! Now we are discriminating against age! I don't care if he is 200 years old. If he is doing a good job, then let him.

By: shirley riley

shirley riley — Wed, 09 Apr 2008 00:46:30 +0000

obama is a liar?why do people hate the clintons so much? get ready to vote for mccain?

By: ?

Wed, 09 Apr 2008 00:44:34 +0000

He needs to retire as do Senator McClain they are over the hill truth be told.

By: Tim

Tim — Wed, 09 Apr 2008 00:44:21 +0000

I wish people would do some research before spouting half truths. Byrd was a clansman, for 1 year 1942-43, by far not a grand dragon but did have ties to them till 47. He has also said it was a big mistake. He has done much to make up for it through his terms. He does not name the buildings, parks and schools after himself, the people in the area name them for his dedication to WV. He is quite accomplished consider his under privileged background that so few ever experience. He has gone so far as to earn a BA degree in 1993, while in his 70s. He has brought billions of dollars into WV. Something that each senator should be trying to do, use federal money for the people they serve. Yea, he is old but he has the most experience, is the most knowledgeable about senate procedure and the most dedicated to his constituency. If only other senators were to be as dedicated to their job and stop grandstanding.