Patriotism is not measured by a flag pin, people. McCain just talks bad about Obama all the time. If that's the GOP's plan to win this election, what about the issues that matter? What's his plan to fix the economy, or giving me a tax break, or protecting our borders, or restoring our respect and integrity with world leaders, or education fixing the education system in this country, or alternative energy solutions. I don't care about who's got military experience, or who's church you belong to, or who said what. Who's going to lead this country in the right direction for once in MY adult life? I've had it with the NON issues.

RJ, CA, then don't listen.

Such a shame. The smears and lies live on forever in the desperate minds of fearful people. Barack Obama is an honorable man. Shame on many of you for spreading hatred.

"There is nothing to fear but fear itself." Franklin Roosevelt

Maybe you shouldn't be friends with terrorists!

I agree with RJ, CA. You are 100% right.

Patriotism?

What is it?

Putting a yellow sticker on your car

or

wanting your sons and daughters back from a nightmare THAT SHOULD HAVE NEVER HAPPENED.

Well its hard to beleive he writes his on speeches, when you can go on youtube and there is a video of someone else giving the same speech barack gave on months before barack even thought about the speech… anybody remeber dont tell me words don't matter yeah much of that speech not his.

I don't need Obama to preach to me about patriotism. I don't need Obama to preach to me about anything. Who does this 40-something neophyte think he is, anyway? I listen to deeds, not words. I listen to his 20 years in a church that preaches hate towards America; I listen to his corrupt political maneuverings in Illinois; I listen to his instigating the race card; I listen to his 130 "present" votes in the IL Senate; I listen to his lack of convening the Afghan subcommitte that he chairs; I listen to his mere 18 mos in the U.S. Senate before thinking he's qualified to be president; I listen to his not having a single solution of his own to a single problem facing us; and the list goes on. Yes, I listen to "deeds" — not wordsmithing.

I haven't heard anyone attack Obama's patriotism; it's the same old Democrat Party canard, with nothing substantive, but enough invective for useful idiots to believe it.

Looking at this thread I don't see how anyone can disagree.

No one, but no one, is attacking Obama's patriotism. We attack his policies; for they are inherently infused with the same idiocy as the "Carter Doctrine".

Get on with the issues, I am so sick of the bull crap designed to mask the real reason this has become an issue.

The total shock and reaction to General Clark for stating an obvious truth shows how easy it is to mislead the public. There is absolutely no advantage in being a former POW and having the leadership traits and principles to be a good leader.

Given the choice between a fly-boy [even off a flat top] and a ground pounder and I'll take the ground pounder every time!

Clark was right! We can't improve our past but we can certainly take charge of our future.

Obama/Clark '08

WITH OUR PAST 30 YRS. WHAT DO WE HAVE TO BE PROUD OF. OUR BULLYING OF THE WORLD. OUR POLICYS BASED ON PROFIT. OUR SELF CENTERED VIEW OF THE WORLD. COME ON PEOPLE WAKE UP.

I love the people on here that keeping saying how Obama isn't patriotic because of these stupid smears about his religious affiliations or policy positions. If that's what defines patriotism, then you don't deserve the freedom you have. Part of patriotism is respecting your fellow Americans and loving your country because of how everyone has free will, yet you won't give it to this man? Who's the real patriot now?

Fight the Hate '08

Boy, I see that flag pin right up their shinning. What a joke. Listen to the man and his friends prior statements even his wifes and tell me if you believe that man has any patriotism. I have seen more patriotism from a military police dog.

Hey, Republicans:

Just because Obama does not support the War in Iraq or war with Iran, that does not make him unpatriotic! In fact, that's blind patriotism, which, in my opinion is 1000x worse than no patriotism.

Patriotism is love for this country and its future, Obama displays this on a daily basis, a stupid flag pin doesn't show that, GOP. He is patriotic.

Let's move to the issues, because Obama can slam McCain on being closely related to Bush. That's important. About "taking the Muslim side," what about the "silent majority?" The 99% of the world who is peaceful. Obviously, you haven't heard that, hence the "Silent?"

I blame the media for this sad fact (FOX news.)

Obama '08

It's not to late to let Hillary run for President we know she is an American. We need to change the name of Democratic Party to The Socialist Party. Who cares I will be a Republican now.

Yeah, how patriotic was it of your mother to scam the system and take food stamps and welfare while sending you to one of the priciest private schools in Hawai'i????
How patriotic was it of your wife to make the ignorant comment she did about finally being proud of this country?

If you are such a patriotic person, why is it you never served our country in the military? And yet you allow Clark to discredit the services of a former POW, graduate of the USNA, as was my daughter.
Have you any idea what it takes just to survive 4 years at the USNA?
I doubt it!

why does obama has to defend his patriotism, i hope it,s not becasue of his name are he a black man it,s sad to think that would be the case but i hope not.

WHEN HO CHI MINH TOLD SUBORDINATES NOT TO WORRY ABOUT AMERICAN PATIENCE HE WAS WELL SPOKEN. HE KNEW IN AMERICA THERE IS NO STOMACH FOR WAR REGARDLESS OF HOW PATRIOTIC ANYONE SEEMS. PATRIOTISM MEANS YOU STAND FOR COUNTRY COME RAIN OR SHINE. THIS ILLCONCIEVED AS IT MAY BE WAR WILL NEVER BE WON WORRYING ABOUT OBAMAS PATRIOTISM. THE GREAT ABRAHAM LINCOLN SAID SIMPLY " ALL MEN CAN STAND ADVERSITY, BUT TO TEST HIS CHARACTER GIVE HIM POWER. MR OBAMAS PATRIOTISM IS NOT A QUESTION WORTH RAISING. WHAT HIS REAL INTENTIONS AND AGENDA TOWARD YOU AND ME ARE WILL DEFINE HIS PATRIOTISM AT HOME AND ABROAD. IF ELECTED LETS SEE HOW HE USES THE POWER THING ONCE THE CHIT-CHAT IS OVER. WHAT ABOUT IT OBAMA? ARE YOU FOR US OR THEM REGARDLESS OF WHO THEM BE?WHAT ABOUT JUST ME, MY WIFE , AND KIDS? PATRIOTS OR NOT THERE ARE MILLIONS OF US WONDERING. WHAT YOU REALLY ABOUT IN THE DARK WHEN NO ONE SEES YOU? GOD HELP AMERICA!!!!!

The GOP will spin it any way they see fit. It won't work this time. All that other garbage they want to pin on Obama won't work either. His solution to our country's issues will win him this election as far as I'm concerned.

Obama 08

I am so sick of the Repubs claiming God and Patriotism because they wear flag pins and cavort with the Evangelical leaders. Meanwhile they hate diplomacy, vote against military benefits, give tax breaks to big companies who pay their CEOs millions, and call anything for our own citizens "entitlements", as if the word is dirty. They had no problem with the lies attacking John Kerry's service nightly with their hateful ads, while Kerry took the high road and didn't fight back. We need to answer these people on every point and take our country back. You go Obama!!!

obama will be best president ever.

Republicans are working hard to become an American terrorist threat. Every time a republican wants something like Bush or McSame they use fear.

When will republicans START talking about real issues and the ideas THEY HAVE! The cowards can't they have failed this country for Bush I and II and Will fail again with McWar as BUSH III.

It's amazing what this country has come to. The folks that say that they won't vote for Barack, that's fine. This is America and you have the right to vote however you want to. But please put away your American Excuse card.

Since when does wearing a flag lapel pin make you more American than someone who does not. If that is the criteria, then Senator Mccain doesn't wear one, what does that say? Since when does putting your hand over your heart when singing the National Anthem make you more American than someone who also sings, but does not put their hand over their heart.

If you want to base your decision on the issues, then please do. It would be a welcome change to what's been happening.

Attack Obama's patriotism is not a good strategy. I think we should focus on his no-plans-empty-rhetoric and his dealings with Rezko. Oh, and also the "bitter" comment.

Right, he has his surrogates attack McCain's contributions and patriotism; then he apologizes (keeps his hands clean) and swears he will never attack his opponent's patriotism (he is the messiah). He knows the seed has been planted. He is the dirtiest of the dirty politician.

Patriotism depends on what you mean by the word change?

There are those who would change America's identity from One Nation under God to One Nation under any or no God.

One view gives us the moral center intended by the founders and the other has no moral center.

What do you say now Obama?

Hi DonColony14Author,

You stated it all very clearly. Too bad the candidates or other bloggers are distracted by who whines about what more.

There are real issues. The biggest of which is our individual liberty. Alot of people complain about how this or that is cruel and unusual punishment, but they gladly give up 3months worth or more of their wages to support the government–that's cruel. And it only got that way in the last 100 years (16th amendment)

Source WIKIPEDIA: "The Wilson-Gorman Tariff Act of 1894 attempted to impose a federal tax of 2% on incomes over $4,000. Derided as "un-Democratic, inquisitorial, and wrong in principle,"[6] it was challenged in federal court. "

2%!!!!! and now we're at 28-30+%!!? At this rate our grandkids will pay 60%, so like Don said…there will be nothing left and when nothing is left, why work? Go to PerotCharts.com and decide for yourselves (all the data is freely available from the government). Think the Savings and Loan bailout, or the Mortgage bailout, or any thing else was big? Wait until America needs a bailout. The Chinese own our debt, and we just make it juicier by increasing the trade imbalance.

So, it's too bad no one talks about the big issues….

Barr in '08!!

the (so-called) realist wrote:
"June 30th, 2008 3:29 pm ET

I wonder who wrote Obama's speech this time"

LOL! This idiot doesn't realize that, unlike Bush, McCain and most Republicans, Obama wrties almost all of his own speeches. HE is the real deal! Get over it!

1-Your patriotism is questioned because you stood by and allowed your mentor drive this nations name through dirt.
2-Your patriotism is questioned because you refused to ware the flag of the United State of America.
3-Your patriotism is questioned because you only denounced your Mentor when he called you a politician but when he dragged America’s name through mud you watched and said you couldn’t denounce an old uncle.
4-Your patriotism is questioned when you want to meet with people that hate this nation and call death to America everyday.

Obama you need to do much more to defend or establish your patriotism.

RESEARCH FOR YOUR SELF OBAMAS LIFE, DON'T JUST READ HIS BOOKS OF WHAT HE WANTS YOU TO PERCIEVE. IT WILL TELL A TALE

Obama is an idiot. You NObamanots better wake up before you ruin America!!!!! Clinton/Edwards (Chet) '08, '12

Heck, I don't question that he believes himself to be a patriot. Timothy McVeigh claimed to be a patriot, too, and even served in the army.
What I wonder…..Is there any symbolism in his giving his speech on patriotism in the hometown of the only person who ever actually ordered the use of nuclear weapons? Hmmmmm……….

IIona proud Canadian….I didn't say that Obama wasn't educated. I think you owe me an apology. I said that the person using the name NObama who had made a comment earlier was uneducated. You need to pay attention before you attack.

Funny CNN left comment open for this one but closed the other articles, always stirring up the bottom of the pot huh CNN!!!:) wink wink, we know. Haven't Blacks always had to defend their patriotism? Isn't this one of those old stereotypes???? I just can't believe in 2008 Blacks are still having to defend their patriotism….Or I should say that old patriotism swift boat talk still works. Shame on ya.

it is not flags, fireworks or the pledge of allegiance which define patriotism. They are only reminders of its deepest roots.

A true patriot recognizes that it is the American Ideals which truly inspire our love for this country. The belief that all man are created equal, that we all have natural rights to pursue our own dream. He is both aware of America's strides to make these goals a reality and is not blinded by the imperfections already in place.

A true patriot is not afraid to speak against any government or system when it is deviating from these truths. Especially when it does its actions under the name of America. Patriotism is not another word for conformity, but it is a constant love for the American people. These feelings are not grounded not in the symbolism established in our government, but in the thoughts and actions of our family and friends.

That is what I got from his speech.

Whaa, Whaa, Whaa. The GOP is attacking Senator Obama on every issue, but they whine and complain when a Democratic surrogate attacks Senator McCain. Now they are going after Senator Obama on Roe v Wade.

If they are going to dish it, they had better be prepared to take it. I agree with General Clark's, and every other Democrats right to speak out.

Is it wrong to question the man's patriotism when he spent 20 years in a church that spat out un-American hate???

It's amazing that he only throws the pastor and the church aside when he's running for President. Would he throw them aside if he wasn't running? I think not.

I want to know everything I can about a candidate for President. Excuse me for wanting to know things. It seems that the Obama nuts out there want me to know very little. Why is that?

Why not stand "idly by"? You did for your first two years in Congress.

That is the oldest trick in the book that the Republicans use. They use too say that about black people back in the day when they wanted something you know too be treated like a human being and wanting too have more than scraps. They even called Martin Luther King Jr a communist.

Obama said he learned that "what makes America great has never been its perfection, but the belief that it can be made better." I would strongly disagree with that. What made America truly great was individual liberty, individual responsibility, and free enterprise capitalism. Over the last 100 years the politicians of both parties have regrettably been doing their best to reduce all three, and this Presidential campaign shows every sign that trend will continue.

There is no such thing as a "right" if it's paid for by someone else. We have the right to "life, liberty, and the pursuit of hapiness," and that's it. All individuals can have those three conditions without infringing on anyone else's right to the same conditions. But "making America better" does not mean offering "free stuff" to some people at the expense of others. Unfortunately, we no longer have statesmen, we have politicians of both parties feeding grandly at the public trough, dispensing goodies that will run out after the parasites have picked dry the bones of the remaining producers. After everyone becomes a parasite, there will be no republic left.

Wake up America!

Voting for McCain or Obama is a vote for more of the same. McCain says we could be in Iraq for 100years and the Dems (Obama) who now control congress (and campaigned on pulling out of Iraq) keep renewing spending bills for the war. How can anyone upset about the war vote for the "lesser of two evils".

You're paying 1/4 or more of your income to the government. McCain and Obama both will take this, overspend and come whining back to us for more.

If you want patriotism and change, how about voting to get your liberty back–you know, that ephemeral quality that the constitution guarantees, but the government has taken. Talk of lapel pins, who's pastor rants more, race or service to country is meaningless and just proves that they are not focussed on the issues.

How about all dems vote for Nader and all republicans vote for Barr.
Independents should continue to be independent and not have to be told who to vote for.

As defined by Webster's, patriotism is love and loyalty or zealous support for one's own country. McCain's support has been aptly demonstrated by 20 yrear's service in uniform, and a like time in the House and Senate. Obama spent 20 years in a church that preaches G.D. America. The fact that people question Obama's patriotism has to do with the choices he himself made.

All of this is the result of over coverage of the news media. A man win the nomination of his party, and then he has to defend his patiotism. This is pure BS. If I was Obama I wouldn't address that issue again.
What does he have to do to satisfy some of you jokers? Have the flag tatooed on his -ss.

I love these GOP posters pretending to be Hillary supporters for McCain. They are amateurs at best. They are so called Evangelicals who sin more than the average person. They love to make up false rumors and play dirty. That is why they have to go to church at least once a week because they know they need their sins forgiven. The only way they know how to win is by trying to bully their opponents and sling mud because they know darn well they have nothing solid to stand on. Have fun in hell, what goes around comes around.

BTW: If you don't defend yourself you look weak….and if a lie is told and left uncorrected it will become truth…Try thinking more Lulu…you are very sad

Oh, Mr. Obama, sweetie, we don't question your patriotism… we question your socialist intentions. But hey, socialism only killed 100 milion people, let's give it another chance!

Obama wrote in his book I choose my friends wisely. so Bll Ayres, Farraghan, Syrian Tony Rezko, Rev. Wright ect. all anti American. and all more than casual acquaintances were not just coincidences. also suspect his the reason he chose to tell the world including al=qaeda who he acknowledges listens to these programs looking for propaganda.that the government send troops to Afghanistan who are undermanned and o ill equipped that they have to use weapons captured from the enemy to continue fighting (remember he thought this to be true when he was saying it) why would he do that.

I have neither seen or heard anything to make me suspect Sen. Obama's patriotism. I believe he deeply loves America and will do anything he needs to do; to protect our country as a U.S. Senator and more importently; as the next President.

Well Informed Voter – Your comment makes no sense. Are you saying I am educated or am not educated…. and how would you know anyway?

Obama's patriotism is an issue and will continue to be an issue because he has no history of patriotism. Period. Nobody is questioning McCain's patriotism because he has a lengthy, well-known history of loving and supporting this country.

Obama is a "Johnny-come-lately" on patriotism and he will continued to be question all the way until he loses in November.

1. His wife wasn't proud of this country until the Dems appointed Obama as their candidate.
2. Reverend Wright.
3. That Weatherman terrorist that Obama is buddies with.
4. That Catholic preacher who ought to be dismissed from the Catholic Church.
5. Obama didn't want to wear a flag pin before he was a candidate, but suddenly you won't find him out in public without one.

Give me a break. Obama is a loser.

WoMen4McCain

Barack Obama, UNEDUCATED? Barack Obama CAN'T READ?

WHAT PLANET HAVE YOU WOMEN BEEN LIVING ON? I KNOW FOR SURE THAT YOU ARE TALKING THROUGH YOUR PROVERBIAL HAT!

Please get on the net and do some research, and STOP PRETENDING YOU KNOW WHAT YOU ARE TALKING ABOUT!

By the way folks, have you seen John McCain's NEW PLANE?
THIS IS THE GUY WHO IS SUPPOSED TO BE IN TOUCH WITH THE AMERICAN PEOPLE. THIS IS THE GUY WHO CALLED BARACK AN……."ELITIST"……. Talk about ARROGANCE, McCAIN IS ARROGANT AND THINKS THAT HE IS "ENTITLED" TO THE PRESIDENCY because of his service in the NAVY!

I wish people will listen to the sermons of "Rush Limbaugh", "Hannity", and "O'Rielly". Why don't the republicans forced to "distance themselves" from these idiots? Because, they need these idiots to preach fear and hate among American people so that they can continue to rule.

Please no more preaching, if I want to be preached to I will go to church.

To "saga for for Obama"

Please learn how to spell first. Then you can criticize Obama.

Looks like the Republicans can't even afford to get educated people to rant out in these forums.

Oh, dear me! No more Mr Nice Guy. He's actually going to RESPOND to those who question his patriotism. I guess he served our country and I never noticed. Mr. Indignant after all the sleaze he's dished out for over a year now. You can't be serious.

What's he going to say? "I am, too, patriotic. So there." Now that's powerful. How about calling off your attack dogs like W. Clark? A guy who was fired from his job because his "executive" experience wasn't up to snuff.

Any more like him out there?

I question his patriotism. I highly question the patriotism of a person who sits in a church for 20 years and absorbs the anit-American rhetoric. I highly question the patriotism of a person that does not understand the traditons of this country. Are you sure he was born here?????

Furthermore, he will not question another's patriotism, he will have his cronies do it for him.

NO WAY can I vote for someone who does not respect the tradtions and patriotism of this country!

NOBama!

Patriotism is love for the country. It's not love for the administration that rules the country.

Was it not many Dems that brought up those questions over the last 16 months??????

The candidate that to defend himself is McCain. As the candidate of the GOP, he needs to explain why a man who points out to others that he has honesty, honor, love of country, Christian marriage, truth, fairplay, belief in God allows himself, his campaign staff and advisor (Karl Rove) lie about, try to besmirch the reputation and use the typical dirty tactics of Rove and others. He needs to explain how as a Christian and a war hero how he allows this and calls for OIbama to play fair and then when he receives a criticism, he whines about He needs to be a man and cut out all the crap. He either is a Christian 24/7 or he is just using the label like the so-called psuedo patriotists are so worried about wearing an American flag in everyone else's lapel while he does.t as if wearing a flag is the true test of being a patriot.

do you know why people think he not patriotic well first of all the gop fox news and slimy karl rove hammering and hammering that obama is muslim and second his name barack HUSSEIN obama well i say get over the name people a name is A NAME COME OUT OF THE GOP BUSH BRAINWASH YOU BEEN IN FOR 7 YEARS ANOTHER THING DO YOU ALL WEAR FLAG PINS PLEASE PLEASE WAKE UP PEOPLE!!!!

Once again for all the INTELLIGENT people –

Alot of you are saying you can't vote for Obama because he flip flops….. and that is a reasonable argument about his stance on issues. Fair enough. Now let's look at it with a little logic, ok. If you went on a road trip, printed out by Mapquest ( or your GPS) and WAY down the road you found out you got incorrect information and you are going the wrong direction ( you are lost), would you turn around or be like Chris Columbus and "search for the east by sailing west"? Well I would turn around… If Bush and Mccain take a position and they found out it is wrong they will never change course. AMERICANS WAKE UP, you must change course if you are headed the wrong direction. Flip flopping to get to the correct solution shouldn't be a crime….. We make it a crime and see what happen, the economy suffers. Bush was so scared of going back on his word………… NOW WE SUFFER. Is this why you need Mccain?

Why are McCain supporters so silly. Your new buddy Liebermen is trying to invoke FEAR into people, and the McCain fans can say are things like:

"If a presidential candidate feels the need to respond to questions regarding his patriotism, or lack thereof, then he/she has no business running for the presidency."

"Sorry, but I can't buy into the multitude of apologies/rejections Obama issues almost daily for his surrogates and his stringof "clarifications" of statements because he was misunderstood, or comments were taken out of context.

I just don't trust the guy.

BTW – please name three specific qualifications Obama has to be Commander-in-Chief"

Can you name one proven fact that makes McCain capable of being Pres??? He ran once, and his own party knock him out the race. If he was SOOOO good why didn't he win before. His own party questioned his true military competence and experience. If he was so good he would have beaten BUSH, but NOPE. That's wasn't the case….

To Therealist:

Almost all recent presidents, and presidential candidates, have speechwriters. Obama us touted as unusual because he actually writes a number of his speeches himself – he wrote the race speech and the convention speech he gave.

Some research might help you find facts, or perhaps a clue.

OBAMA will do and say anything to get himself and wife into the White House. I don't trust his "major speeches" of convenience, his flip-flopping, his ingratiating self-promotions – before you know it, he will be touting himself as having worked in a factory in Indonesia, that his mother had a Latino great uncle, that he wrote a research paper on Susan B. Anthony and supporter the ERA when he was 15 years old, that another uncle liberated 5 concentration camps and that he feels your pain. Barf.

The media and all the other crazies out there that feel hiding behind a lapel pin makes you patriotic is sickening. Really, my husband has served in the military for 24 years and has done an excellent job. But he doesn't walk around with a lapel pin on his clothing when out of uniform nor do I. But does that mean he or I are not patriotic? Certainly Not!!! It's not what can I wear on my clothing, that I may serve my country but yet what can I do to serve my country? This is what patriotism is all about not a stupid pin.

Most of us that's running our mouth don't wear a pin; we got some of our very own stupid Americans running around boycotting our US soldiers for fighting in the war. How STUPID AND UNPATRIOTIC IS THAT? But you don't hear no one addressing that. Please this country is pathetic.

How about McCains patriotism. He doesn't even bother to pay property taxes on his condo in Arizona, for 4 years. Is that patriotic?

Obama has served his country's governement for 13 years. That is patriotism!!! Working for your country, working for the people in your country like he has, by working both in the Illinois Senate, as well as the US Senate, that is patriotism!!!

I am just curious, what has Obama done for this country…. I dare anybody to list one or even two things that qualify him for the position. I have seen this asked several times, and i havent seen anybody say one thing he has done.. Slam McCain that is all they come back with.
My Democratic vote goes for McCain this time around…we'll see if they get it right next time.

WHAT PATRIOTISM? THE KIND OF HIS IRAQI BUDDY REZCO? AND REV.WRIGHT PATRIOTISM, G.DAM AMERICA?

COME ON PEOPLE WAKE UP AND SMELL THE COFFEE !!!

JOHN MCCAIN/MITT ROMNEY 2008

To even suggest pulling our troops out of Iraq is a thorn in Obamas side. You just cannot do that with the current state of affairs in the Middle East. Tough to swallow, you anti-war activists, but a neccessary evil to our interests.

is Dr. Rev Wright still an issue? really, had anyone listen to the whole sermon? can you find anything other then "he through Wright under the bus" rhetoric. Wright threw himself under the bus the GOP was driving it.
Obama is taking the high road again…

Please pay attention what Obama said: "He vowed to NEVER question the patriotism of others in the campaign", that is to say, please don't doubt Obama's patriotism no matter what is my patriotism…
Just a hint that he really does not love American so much…

lulu June 30th, 2008 3:27 pm ET

If a presidential candidate feels the need to respond to questions regarding his patriotism, or lack thereof, then he/she has no business running for the presidency.

So all you would need to do to eliminate your opponent would be to question his or her patriotism, Lulu? That makes no more sense than anything I've heard from gramps Mccain's campaign…..

translating MLG's comment:
I dont care what Obama has to say. I will NEVER EDUCATE myself and will REMAIN IGNORANT and vote for another term of Bush.

BTW:
the reason why he's giving a speech on patriotism is because of the smears and lies that Sean Hannity and O'reilly spread on FOX news everyday to regular americans who don't bother flipping the channel to CNN or any other news channel for better balanced news

this is pathetic. I'll bet the same people who question Obamas Patriotism are the same that don't question Bush's.

Maybe its those peoples patriotism that needs to be question?

OBAMA -means- Original Brand America Must Accept

McCain – means – Misadventure Can Cage America In Novemeber

It is your choice to make America.Either to choose the Original stuff which Obama represents or to Choose Misadventure which will definitely cripple America for another dunky years as his master.

I believe patriotism hasn't been the issue.

It's your naivete regarding cultural traditions/military heritage related to flag ceremonies, wearing of the flag, and when ( and where to) place your hand over your heart.

The concerns: you were ignorant–not unpatriotic.

WoMeN4McCain – Educated people alone will not elect a president . So, start acting like it.

Negatives will never flow from his smooth talking lips. He'll use doofus stand-ins like Wesley Clark and the like. How can we question Obama's patriotism? He's never risked one hair on his pretty head for his country and he never will. Read his book!

"When fascism comes to America it will be wrapped in the flag and carrying a cross." – Sinclair Lewis

True in the 1920s and even more true now that warrantless wiretaps and basic disregard for the US Constitution seem to be the law of the land…

June 30th, 2008 3:34 pm ET

Perhaps one reason people question his patriotism is that he belonged to a church that has as its 10 point vision (something the pastor and members commit to), a "non-negotiable commitment to Africa". If an American citizen has a non-negotiable commitment to another country that might just mean that they don't have a total commitment to the United States????

CNN, thank you for not filtering out my comments — once again……

just love these ignorant fools, fyi Africa is not a country it is not a nation it is a continent

Why is it that such a stink is being made over Clark's statement? His statement was not an attack on McCain's military credentials, that's rediculous! I totally agree that just because McCain was a war hero it does not qualify him as President of the US. If so, then every soldier in Iraq is qualified to run the country?

IT SEEMS THAT WE HAVE BIGGER PROBLEMS TO DISCUSS AND WHINE ABOUT THEN A PERSON'S PERSONAL OPINION OF WHICH IS VERY TRUE!

obama doesnt attack mccains patriotism,but,mccain question his,all of the time.doesnt this make mccain somewhat un-patriotic.republicans think they are the only one's who are patriotic.illegal wars are un-patriotic.

I don't care what Obama has to say. I will NEVER TRUST HIM and WILL NOT VOTE for him.

hahaha…too simple. His community work is what he should have said. He is confused. As an executive, I would be more interested in his first 11 years of his life at least to be able to hire him .

The part of his speech this morning that encourages me the most was where he said "I will not question anyones patriotism and I will not stand idly by while someone questions mine." John Kerry lost because he didn't respond quickly and forcefully when these types of charges were leveled at him. Looks like Obama has learned the lesson of the 2004 election.

Obama is showing the greatest amount of Patriotism simply by taking
a stand and running for the President of the United States.
We all dream of changing our Country, and our conditions, but most people fail when it's time to "Step Up To The Plate".
Obama is making the right move to help our country, you can't get anymore Patriotic than that.

and NOBAMA….you seem really uneducated. CAn you even read?

The real questions are why McCain keep attacks his patriotism.
Just because Obama did not server in the Military??
McCain is from the old world. We live in today’s world. Anyone who uses words like Gooks in 2008 need not be our President.

I like Obama he is not going put up with any more stupidity from people questioning his patriotism. Obama doesn't shy away from addressing the tough issues that is why he will make a great president.

To all bloggers!

Please, NO NAMECALLING, Just positive comments. YOU KNOW THE SAYING "IF YOU CAN'T SAY ANYTHING GOOD, DON'T SAY ANYTHING?

This is important, for everyone who thinks that Wes Clarke should apologize for his POW/McCAIN REMARKS, please go to POLITICO and check out this article,"Some on left target McCain WAR RECORD"

Then come back with your comments!

This criticism about patriotism is just a deflection from tallking about real issues. Might as well criticize Obama for not loving his mommy.

Grow up people.

bdiddy from Chicago….you're right on all counts.
Big Al—-Who you calling crooks? Barack and I are from Chicago and we know crooks when we see 'em. Like uh..Rezko and our Democratic Governor with the funny last name who's about to be indicted by the Feds.
If you're from Chicago you're smudged if not dirty from playing politics in the Windy City.
Obama is no Messiah. Heck, he's not even a choir boy, but he's got all you suburban white folks fooled.

obama makes you mccain idiots look bad, real bad.

I approach negativity with positivity, pessimism with optimism, and hate with love.

By staying positive and strong Obama will be the next president of the US!

I'm a Republican supporting McCain and I would never question his patriotism. His fellow democrats who are doing it need to take a look at themselves and their motives for trying to divide their own party. They are mean, selfish whiners who are making everyone sick. Especially that puma bunch or whatever they are calling themselves. News Flash….Puma Pac…the republicans don't want or need your support. You are nothing but people who thrive on stirring up trouble and you should all be taken to an island somewhere and dropped off and left there. You abandon your party cause you don't get your way like little babies….why would we want you. First sign things don't go your way, you'll be doing the same thing again. GROW UP

YES, OBAMA IN YOUR BOOK YOU DID SAY YOU WOULD ALWAYS TAKE THE MUSLIM SIDE. . . THAT DOES NOT SOUND LIKE PATRIOTISM TO THE U.S . TO ME.

.
Now he tries to redifine patriotism.

Just like a liberal, if you don't fit the mold, you change the mold to fit you!

Since he keeps bringing it up, he must be insecure about his own patriotism!! In other words he is having to prove it to himself that he is patriotic! NOT

.

Surely the American public has learn enough in 8 years to not fall for the GOPs tired old politics of fear and shame…. the accusations of "you're not patriotic" and "terrorists will come" are more of the same.

NO BUSH THIRD TERM

Hello? America? Are you better off today than 8 years ago?

So will he keep his pledge to not question someone's patriotism just like he kept his pledge about public financing?

TIME WILL TELL.

You left out the best part of the speech and the best aspect. The quote by Mark Twain, "Patriotism is supporting your country all the time and supporting your government when it deserves it." As a nation we need to uphold the ideals of America and if need be educate ourselves on what American ideals are because when you hear folks saying you aren't a patriot because you hold your government to those ideals, you can't help but to wonder how do tthese so-called patriots think we got this far in the first place? From Shay's Rebellion to Abu Grahibb, we have called on America to deliver on its promise and we should never stop.

Good on Obama for inspiring us. God bless him!! God bless America!!

McCain likes to use his military service for political gain..
Thats the only thing he runs on. Doesn't qualify him to be president and sure as hell doesn't make him more patriotic.

"I will not stand idly by when I hear others question mine."
You go Obama, don't let the republicans question it..

As a military wife I say " Stop using the military for political purposes"

You can always spot the PHONY PATRIOTS. They are the ones who wear little flags in their lapels and boast of their patriotism, but when ask "did you serve? And what branch?" that sheepish grin comes over their face and all you hear are the excueses.

Bring back the draft.

Serve in uniform, or as a "civil worker". But everyone owes their country 6 years of service.

Only then can we have the "Patriot" discussion.

Obama said that his "deep and abiding love for this country" is the reason he is running for president.

WHAT!? This man really will say anything to get elected!!

I have to say, CNN, this guy is working hard…lol

Stand up for what you beleive Mr. Obama. I beleive you are going to be the next president, I beleive that you will do just as good of a job or better, I beleive that you love this country. Don't even play into the ramblings of mccain or anyone else …… God Bless you!!!!!!

It's sad that any American , let alone a Prsidential Candidate has to "prove" their patriotism.

Smears/distractions have really hurt this country

Obama '08

An American Patriot is one who defends the Constitution against enemies from within and without the nation. Obama seems to be such a patriot.

Those who trashed our constitutional guarantees and rights, Gonzales, Rove, Cheney, they are the traitors. Also, anyone who helps the Israeli Lobby manipulate this country into a war with Iran is a traitor.

Hey listen sascto joe…we are not Republicans posting as Clinton supporters. We are DEMOCRATS that will NOT be voting for the SELECTED pick by the DNC!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Millions of us will be voting for McCain, writing in Hillary or voting for a third party candidate!!!!!!!!!

Get over your lies about who we are!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Obama has about as much patriotism for the US as Osama does!!!!!!!!!

Go ahead Repub, look at the score broad…looks like old man Mc is going down. Real America who love this country and not the LOBBIESt sees that Sen. Obama is a real America….PERIOD

Marilyn and Vomitus: Are you better off now than 4 years ago? That must explains why you want 4 more years.

It's funny that Obama feels so insecure on this issue that he needs to come out and defend himself against "attacks" McCain hasn't even leveled against him.

Hey CNN, What's with the baby face picture of Obama? Maybe he's too young to be president.
By the way, who writes Obama's speeches?
Obama's patriotism is in question when he sits in a church for 20 years that spits out hate of the United States.
I do not believe he is ready to be president. He's got too thin of a resume. Being a community organizer is not qualifications to be President.
MB, you've got it wrong with McCain saying that we will be in Iraq for 100 years. That's an Obama smear attack. Get your facts right. You should research Obama's record before you attack the other guy. Look at your Obama Obamanet or is that raisenettet?

BEWARE!!!
A lot of NEOCONS posing as Clinton or Obama supporters are posting hate mail. They're trying to drive a wedge between us!
RESIST THE NEOCON HATE MACHINE!

I was not question about my Patriotism when I was drafted and served Obama has as much military expericence as say a Dick Cheny

Based purely on the words coming out of the man's mouth, Barack Obama is one of the most patriotic people in the country right now.

You don't have to agree with me, but if you've really listened to what the man has said, and you sincerely doubt his patriotism, you are sincerely touched, and not in a good way.

If "He's all talk, no action", and "I wonder who wrote his speech this time" are the best you have, that bodes pretty well for him. Because, obviously, every candidate doesn't do anything but talk, and none of them writes their own speeches. He is simply the best of the best. And we're just not used to that.

Obama 08!
Just because you're tired of being called a racist doesn't mean it's not true.

I think anyone that has read your book would naturally question your patriotism. It was you that said that you would always take the Muslim side.

Questioning your patriotism is a no brainer. Perhaps that is way the Obamabots won't.

therealist

Truthfully Obama is quite capable of writing his own speeches… that comes with truly educating oneself and having to work for what you get in life as opposed to those who are born or marry those with silverspoons.

If Obama wore 5 flag pins and red, white, and blue underwear then I would vote for him. Its obvious that in electing a President that Americans care more about fashion patriotism than health care, education, environment, taxes, and Iraq. And we wonder why this country is in debt, our people are dying earlier, and our edumacation system sucks? And don't anyone dare accuse me of being an elitist as I do not drink white wine and I am wearing 2 flag pins right now.

Does anyone know what these candidates want to do as president? Or is it all about who spent the most time in POW camp, who has the biggest flag pin, who spends the most time in church, or whose wife is the proudest?

This is not Miss America–we're not looking for the winner in the talent and swimsuit competition. Let's try to focus on ideas.

Sorry, but I can't buy into the multitude of apologies/rejections Obama issues almost daily for his surrogates and his stringof "clarifications" of statements because he was misunderstood, or comments were taken out of context.

I just don't trust the guy.

BTW – please name three specific qualifications Obama has to be Commander-in-Chief

I am so sick of Obama being forced to explain himself over and over again if you dont know him by now then you obviously dont want to know him. He's running for president how much more patriotic can you get? Dont see any reason why people have to talk so nasty about the person they are not voting for. Either you like him or you dont end of story.

Why are so many people up in arms, about what Wesley Clarke said?
The man spoke the simple truth!

FLYING PLANES, GETTING SHOT DOWN, AND BECOMING A POW, DOES NOT QUALIFY YOU TO BE COMMANDER IN CHIEF? IF THIS IS INCORRECT, I WONDER WHY WE HAVEN'T HAD A STAMPEDE OF POWS APPLYING FOR THIS POSITION? In my opinion, His POW DAYS did something strange to him to say the least! Maybe that is why he is always talking WAR, WAR, BOMB, BOMB, it is almost like he wants to seek some kind of revenge!

Furthermore, John McCain HAD PREFERENTIAL TREATMENT throughout his five and a half years of captivity, because of the high standing of both his father and grandfather. I THINK BOTH HIS FATHER AND HIS GRANDFATHER WERE ADMIRALS, (John McCain did not make admiral) THEY WERE BOTH VERY HIGH UP ON THE TOTEM POLE IN THE NAVY! If YOU THINK THAT I AM BASHING HIM YOU HAVE GOT A REAL STRANGE ISSUE WITH COMMUNICATION!

By the way, John McCain released only selected areas of his Naval Service Records. There were many, many pieces missing, his naval service report was far, far, from complete. If you don't believe this, just do your research!

Senator McCain is a decorated war hero, but what Gen. Clark is fundamentally true. John McCain never had to make any war time decisions or commanded any troops to do so. I can understand him being upset, but the truth hurts. He can't say Gen. Clark is inexperienced nor did you notice him or his campaign office deny it. The only thing they said it is politics as usual. Thanks Gen. Clark for opening the American people eyes.

Only Republicans like mcBush would challenge a persons patriotism. They better look in the miooror before they disparage others. it is the Republicans that have brought this country down through greed and duplicity. OBAMA 08!!!

Where in the world are you guys getting that this came from McCain?

Hillary Cllinton supporters are attacking Obama way more vichously than McCain supporters.

So Obama finally condemns MoveOn for the "General Betray Us" ad? Too bad he didn't have the principle to do it a year ago. Of course, he was courting the liberal left wing of the party back then.

As a Democrat I am really upset that we're stuck with Obama. I just cannot trust him. Yes on public financing…no on public financing. Embraces Rev. Wright then throws him under the bus, never admitting that he lied about what he knew and when he knew it. Government eavesdropping is horrible…fast forward a year and he votes to allow it. Silence on MoveOn's deplorable tactics, now he condems them.

Will the real Barack Obama please stand up? Is there a real Barack Obama? Or do you just deliver "major speeches" and hope to continuing fooling the country.

Only a warmongering, hate spewing, closed minded racist would have a hard time seeing your Patriotism Obama. As far as the rest of us its as clear as "Old Glory" herself.
God Bless America!

If McCain were a true patriot, he would do all he could to prevent other young men and women from suffering the fate he did. The reason why he doesn't do anything to prevent it is because he thinks the world owes him something because he was a POW, and that no one else on earth suffered like he did.

Being A Patriot Means You Are Not Involved In The Keating 5 . . . . Mccain!

I thought that is was a great speech and I think it is a shame that anyone would question his patriotism. Gosh, the Republicans and the like must really be desperate to do so.

I don't care about his patriotism. I don't like him and I won't vote for him.

Senator Obama feels the need to discuss patriotism because some idiots in this country wear their patriotism on their lapel and confuse dissent with anti-patriotism. I hope they learn from him.

HAHAHAHA

First time your patriotism has been challenged????

Thats cause this is the first time you are being patriotic……. Well pretending to be patriotic

How many other presidential candidates have had there patriotism questioned before???? Why starting now??? THere most be a reason…

Lulu, have you not seen how Bush got elected, by the same smere campaigns that Obama is responding to. Had Al Gore responded to these low life smere tactics we would all have been better off, lets not drop the ball on this election again.

Obama cited, "I will not stand idly by when I hear others question mine." I won't either, Senator Obama. And I commend you for standing up for your true value and beliefs! The public are not naive to recognize how "emotion" McCain gets when told the hard truth! His not best qualified to be Commander-in-Chief just for being a prisioner of war because he never held that position to claim merit! No one has for that matter! But I can make a good decision base on attitude and substantive opinion and that aligns with YOU!

Oh please, you Log Cabin Repugs, now when them same clowns doing the 2004 election, what did they do, trash Kerry record. So now they war questioning, McSane record, it a foul call, give me a break. What the Gen. said is right and if the Gen said anything wrong at all. The only thing McSane have to do is release his miltary records. McSane camp is so quick to reply back to something that was said, all he have to do is release his records. Or he must have something to hide. The media need to get off there butts and ask McSane where is his records and if he don't release them well the public can judge for themself. We ain't Stupid!!!!!!!!! Can someone please give McBaby and the rest of them crooks a bottle because they keep crying. Please put the old people to bed, but before change his depend!!!!!

lulu…..If you are attacked everyday by smears & lies people start to believe YES u do need to respond

So exactly what has McCain done for the average person in all his years in washington?
-I demand the real truth about his candidacy
Does he go to church, and why is he afraid to say so?
-those fact checking on Obama, goggle McCain & Keating Five
-Elitist, the Mccains own 15 multi million dollar personal homes
some are in tax default
-His most heart felt words is attacking Barack

what is he running On
–noun, verb, POW–

IT IS SAID THAT A PEOPLE DESERVE THE LEADERS THEY

ELECT. MCBUSH IS OUT OF HIS MISERABLE MIND.

I JUST DON'T SEE HOW WE CAN POSSIBLY DESERVE

A GERIATRIC LOONY FOR PRESIDENT.

We know who he is and we know what he stands for and none of it is good for America.
Time for him to give up the nomination.

If he candidate running to be the President of the United States of America has to defend himself on patriotism, then people, we got a problem.

No way I am voting for this guy. Sorry.

Democrats have lost it. Attacking McCain's foreign policy experience and his military record? Um ok. Where is Obama's? He's the least experienced candidate in the US Senate. Please stick to things you can win with like the economy and getting out of Iraq. Democrats make no sense most of the time.

If [anyone] was born in America, then one's patriotism never has to be challenged….because we live it everyday and it never has to be questioned.

General Clark is allowed to have an opinion. That's what he and others have fought for.

I was appallled last night when Rick Sanchez opened a "News" hour with a headline that John McCain had been "swiftboated" by an Obama surrogate. Really? Does noone edit Sanchez? His over-the-top pronouncements are ridiculous!

We do question Obama because he stayed in a church for 20 years that hates America. He stayed busom buddies with people who are anti-American. Why did he or does he stay friends with these type of people, if he himself doesn't feel the same way they do?

therealist– every president and presidental hopeful has a speech writer. If you think McCain, Nader & Barr write their own speeches You are sadly mistaken, so what is your point? repeat after me……President Obama.

Why did you guys choose that picture????????????????

Barack has more patriotism in his little finger then Mc Same cause he wants to end the war McSame just wants more to die.

He keeps talking about all the rumors that are not true. How about some specifics!! He was out of the country during much of his childhood. If he did not attend a Muslim school (I am willing to believe him), what school did he attend? What church (if any) did he attend as a child? You do not refute anything by simply saying it is not so, you say what is true if you want someone to believe you. But Obama is God and we must just believe him. Obama's speeches are just koolAid. I don't care if he is Muslim—but I see not reason to deny it or insult other Muslims (remember the women he removed from behind his podium) because you do not want detractors. No more ads or speeches; we need facts and specifics.

Go ahead, attack his Patrionism!!

Just as long you have money, I don't care about you…

If you have to tell someone you are patriotic, then your actions don't speak loud enough.

With a name like Obama, And Hussien and Barack, he has to hate America right??? No true American will name their children that. It's so Un American!!!

His name should be John, or Luke, Maybe Bob, or Bill YEAH now that's American!!!!

The media plays into this racial bias too easy. We need to stop it now…
Other wise a Yao Ming may run for president and that's definetely not American….Right???

THE REPUBLICANS HAVE WON THE LAST THREE

BUSH PRESIDENCIES WITH SLEAZE & LIES.

THEY ARE GOING FOR A FOURTH BUSH TERM WITH

THE SAME STRATEGY. THAT SAYS VERY LITTLE FOR OUR

MENTAL & MORAL CAPACITY, AS A PEOPLE. MCBUSH

CAN NEVER IN A MILLION YEARS RUN & WIN ON HIS

MISERABLE WARMONGERING RECORD. HE & HIS CRONIES,

ARE DOING THE SWIFT-BOAT NUMBER AGAIN.

Perhaps one reason people question his patriotism is that he belonged to a church that has as its 10 point vision (something the pastor and members commit to), a "non-negotiable commitment to Africa". If an American citizen has a non-negotiable commitment to another country that might just mean that they don't have a total commitment to the United States????

CNN, thank you for not filtering out my comments — once again.

Ah yes, I respect Obama for reminding everyone what it really means to be a patriot.

Patriotism isn't defined by a blind, unconditional adherence and appreciation for everything your country or your government says and does. It doesn't mean wearing a flag pin, or sticking a magnetic yellow ribbon on your oversized SUV. It isn't about flag waving or putting your hand over your heart or saying the pledge of allegiance.

Being a patriot means understanding that nations and governments go astray. And it means having the conviction to know when your country has done something wrong, and having the dedication and loyalty to that country to steer it back onto the right path.

If anything it does look like the Democrats have learned from the Kerry campaign and to not let their opponent control the issues like last time. The "I will not dignify" attitude does not work when running for president.

I won't kill my friend….here you kill my friend…Obama tactic number 2, tactic number 1 involves a bus, and a loylist/frind being thrown under it!

"We've learned we need to wait and see what Senator Obama actually does, rather than take him at his word."

Senator McCain's service and experience, both as a POW and as a Senator apparently hasn't infused him with a dose of good judgment..Still wants us in Iraq for a 100 years.

Senator McCain's experience hasn't led him to realize that the war in Iraq and it's continuance has empowered and emboldened Iran, and destabilized the region.

Senator McCain's experience hasn't caused him to recognize that we're losing ground in Afghanistan, and Osama bin Laden is still out there, plotting.

Senator McCain's experience didn't lead him to support the 21st Century GI Bill — he opposed it. It didn't even make him feel the need to get back to Washington to vote on this — one of the most important veterans' bills this Congress. He twice skipped votes on the GI Bill, to fundraise.

Senator McCain's experience didn't help him empathize with troops are overstretched and overdeployed, when he voted against the bipartisan Webb-Hagel "Dwell Time Amendment," which would have given troops as much time at home as in the field.

And what's with the lies- How can you sustain 2 cuts- one on the top of your head and the other one on the side of your face from hitting your head trying to get into your car. OH PLEASE

I wonder who wrote Obama's speech this time….

McCarthy style attacks ring hollow in the Bush era, McCain. Why are you doing this to yourself and the GOP? Why attack someone's patriotism when they have serving the US public for years and years?

What is the definition of patriotism anyway? Do you have to serve the military to be a "patriot", or serve the public? Is either one required? I would think do no harm against your country is sufficient.

If I were Obama, I would down play these types of attacks by refocusing on the issues.

If I were McCain, I would fire whoever thought up this line of attack.

Just because a person doesn't wear a flay pen or some other logo showing patriotism doesn't mean that he/she doesn't love this country. You have some people who wear the flag pen and other logos on their cars and other places but are prejudice towards a person of color who has serve and are serving this country or who has died serving it.

The flag pen is just a cop-out to people's real feelings towards Obama.

Happy Independence Day!

This is what I want, positive ads. My family been negative, I hate negative people. I love talking to people who think positive and give positive suggestions. Instead of like "If you don't do this, your life is over". The approach I like is "If you try doing this, your life will improve"

If a presidential candidate feels the need to respond to questions regarding his patriotism, or lack thereof, then he/she has no business running for the presidency.

McMains spokes people have that same nasty smug attitude that the Bush spokes people do. Why do they always have to respond to a positve statement with a smug nasty response?