July 11, 2008
Posted: July 11th, 2008 04:05 PM ET

From
CNN's Fareed Zakaria interviewed Obama Friday.
CNN's Fareed Zakaria interviewed Obama Friday.

(CNN) - Barack Obama again said Friday he favors the death penalty for Osama bin Laden should the 9/11 mastermind be captured.

In an interview with CNN's Fareed Zakaria, the presumptive Democratic presidential nominee said bin Laden's actions have justified capital punishment.

"If he was captured alive, then we would make a decision to bring the full weight of not only U.S. justice, but world justice down on him," Obama said during the interview, the entirety of which is set to air Sunday at 1 p.m. ET.

Watch: Part of Fareed Zakaria's exclusive interview with Barack Obama

"I am not a cheerleader for the death penalty - I think it has to be reserved for only the most heinous crimes," Obama also said. "But I certainly think plotting and engineering the death of 3,000 Americans justifies such an approach."

In the wide-ranging interview, the Illinois senator also criticized Afghanistan President Hamid Karzai for failing to bring order to his country.

"I think the Karzai government has not gotten out of the bunker, and helped to organize Afghanistan - the government, the judiciary, police forces - in ways that would give people confidence," he said. "So there are a lot of problems there. But a big chunk of the issue is that we allowed the Taliban and al Qaeda to regenerate itself when we had them on the ropes. That was a big mistake, and it's one I'm going to correct when I'm president."

UPDATE: Republican National Committee spokesman Alex Conant has sharply criticized Obama over his Karzai comments.

“Barack Obama had no interest in Afghanistan until he started running for president. Obama has never visited Afghanistan to meet our allies on the ground, yet he is audacious enough to assert that President Karzai has ‘not gotten out of the bunker,'" he said in a statement. "Obama’s words are naively out-of-touch with reality and offensive to America’s allies. Considering Obama’s negligent leadership of the Senate subcommittee charged with overseeing the NATO mission in Afghanistan, Obama has no credibility discussing Afghanistan."

Catch the full interview with Obama Sunday on Fareed Zakaria GPS, 1 p.m. ET

Filed under: Barack Obama


Ula Nejad- Sacramento Ca   July 11th, 2008 6:31 pm ET

He is shameless. His determination to win at any cost is becoming ridiculous.

Jim   July 11th, 2008 6:30 pm ET

Until we as a society finally realize that anyone, and I mean anyone that can't conform to the laws of the land should be exterminated, the bad guys will continue to roam the earth. No whining, no sitting on death row for years, nothing more than a fair trial and ZAP. Way too many law bidding citizens running around who are either victims of rogue individuals or shoving to many tax dollars down the penal system.

Patricia   July 11th, 2008 6:29 pm ET

What qualifications does Alex Conant have to make judgment on this subject?

I feel bad that H. Clinton has a debt -in regard to some comments on this web site – but it was her decision to use the money she did not have. Is that responsible spending? Isn't that what has so many American's in debt?

I understand Elisabeth Kubler Ross's stages of grieving that many of the Clinton fans are working through, and each one grieves in their own time frame. But let each one grieve on their own. Share your grief with your friends, not the whole world.

Donna in ID   July 11th, 2008 6:29 pm ET

There are claims that we can get a pic from a satellite in outer space and be able to read a license plate. Then there has been seismographic done from outer space so they know oil and underground blow outs are. So if we can do all that why haven't they be able find him and his hideouts? I don't think they have wanted to. Gives an excuse to keep wars going and keep playing the "Fear Card" and keep Americans in line to go along with our tyrant leaders.

JeffRob   July 11th, 2008 6:26 pm ET

Nope, sorry, GOP.
YOU have no credibility when it comes to discussing Afghanistan. Our troops would have been there for the last seven years, looking for bin Laden, but, well, you know....

David Newport, OR   July 11th, 2008 6:26 pm ET

Bin Laden needs dialysis 2x a week. Now where could one of these machines be? In a cave running off a generator? Or maybe in a large Pakistani city? If there is really a desire to find someone, they can be found.

ben   July 11th, 2008 6:25 pm ET

To sharpton,rev. wright, and Jessie Jackson. Will you three
headline grabbing idiots please shut the Hell up!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
In case you three morons are unaware of it, the war of the races has almost come to an end!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Why are you still trying to inflame it again? The only reason I can think of is you would rather see your face on TV and let the public hear your unwanted remarks, than see a black man elected president. Believe me if you don't shut up and dissapear, you may just once again start a war of the races and my candidate Obama will lose! YES I AM WHITE

Anonymous   July 11th, 2008 6:24 pm ET

No, sorry, GOP.
YOU have no credibility when discussing Afghanistan. Our troops would have been there for the last 7 years, you know, looking for the guy, but....

S. Denice   July 11th, 2008 6:24 pm ET

My God. These die-hard Hillary supporters are becoming psychotic!No matter what ticker Obama's name come up in, some Hillary fanatic wil find a way to pounce on him in support of her. This really is a sad, sad time in American politics. Never in my life have I seen such a contentious election.

Initially, I was in agreement that Hillary Clinton should be Obama's running mate. You Hillary fanatics have caused me to change my mind in support of that. You can write her name in all you want but her day is over. The Clinton dynasty is done. This ridiculous Bush, Clinton, Bush, Clinton pattern of the presidency is broken. Thank God Almight for that...

Joyce Becker   July 11th, 2008 6:23 pm ET

I agree with Obama, he should have been captured and put to death a long time ago, can't Bush do anything right, he is not in Iraq and never was. Go Obama Go!!!!

Tom from Texas   July 11th, 2008 6:23 pm ET

I like Obama's idea but his death penalty will not be an instant type. Put him in jail and amputate one aorm the first month. After it heals, yo go for one leg. After the leg heals, you inject him with some virus that will cause his skin to start getting rotten while he is still alive. Then cut off his remaining arm. Then intoduce worms that will such his blod from his rotten skin as he cannot remove them (no arms). When it is getting too bad, feed him some worm eggs that will grow inside him and start eating him from inside. Then pluck one of eyes out and stop feeding him so that he decays from both inside and outside.
If anone can suggest something worse, I will vote for it.

MBFLA   July 11th, 2008 6:20 pm ET

I don't know, I kind of buy into the belief that everyone gets a fair trial before we determine they are guilty. This is still America, is it not?

Anna   July 11th, 2008 6:20 pm ET

Actually the terror extremists live for martyrdom.
Remember the trial of Zacarias Moussaoui?
Life in prison wasnt what he expected...he will have a long day to think about it.

No Martyrdom for Terrorists!

Jayson   July 11th, 2008 6:20 pm ET

Big surprise here since he was disappointed when the Supreme Court ruled that the death sentence was un-Constitutional for child molesters

Linda of Atlanta   July 11th, 2008 6:18 pm ET

Has McCain visited Afghanistan? Did his visit make any improvements in the situation? Obama's not visiting Iraq and Afghanistan are just red herrings that the Republicans believe we are dumb enough to accept as legitimate. We are not! Has Bush visited? He's the President, with the authority to have changed his policies. McCain's visits did not change Bush's decision to transfer resources from Afghanistan to Iraq. In fact, McCain shares Bush's decision that Iraq is the be all and end all of our foreign policy.

Nancy from FL - GO PUMAS!!!   July 11th, 2008 6:16 pm ET

Muslims only kill other races! And Obama is funded by people who are terrorists like Osama!!!!

Hillary or McCain 2008!

Ron Nebraska   July 11th, 2008 6:15 pm ET

You know, it occurs to me that if Jesus Christ himself was running for President, whatever party was opposite Him would discount and denigrate any ideas He had to better our country. Just goes to show that the blind ignorance in our country has become epidemic and our democracy has been a failed experiment due to a lack of knowledge and initiative by the public to educate themselves.

Miss T, Cary NC   July 11th, 2008 6:15 pm ET

Jonathan, Hartford Ct
"How long will it take YOU to find him?

Why is he even still out there making videos? Have you asked that question of GWB? Afterall 9/11 happened on his watch. He did a pretty good job of capturing Saddam Hussein for killing his own people. Why has he not devoted as much attention to OBL? At least Obama wants to make finding him a priority. Or is that your issue? That Obama may do what Bush has not been able to do?

No McCain!   July 11th, 2008 6:15 pm ET

As much as I would like to see Bin Laden dead, this isn't a good idea.

These extremists WANT to be killed, they WANT to be martyred, because they believe they are performing Jihad which means they are willing to die to defend their "Islam." Besides, the extremists could be enraged for this. They only understand one thing, death for the "right cause."

Make him suffer a life sentence and let him know what it was like for the families of 9/11. That's a better plan, in my opinion at least. But first, we need to get out of Iraq so we can find him and capture him! He's not in Iraq...

Obama '08

Real person for Obama.   July 11th, 2008 6:13 pm ET

I was reading through blogs and I find something disturbing, when people have to bashed Obama even if the ticker said good things about him.

I know for some people who hate a candidate have to criticize the candidate, but not that far.

Poll shows Obama lead grow by 2% and some negative folks are bashing Obama.

You don't have to blog if you got nothing to say you know. Because you hate someone doesn't mean you have to bashed that person even if it is happy time.

I guess most Obama haters would have prefer those ugly words from Mccain camp should have been Obama's camp.

That is how much i think those people actually hate this guy and because you hate Obama thus mean you have no issues you want the candidate to address.
If you have issues that interest you , you would have lean on the candidate that promotes your issues that matters to you.
If you like killing people, wars and someone who have no idea how to grow the economy and who promote Bush policies vote for Mccain.

Thus mean you like the way things are at the moment.

So, these are the type of people that voted for Bush because they hate Al Gor and Hate John Kerry. Hey now I guess you have not learn from your mistakes, the person you voted for is now the worst president in the history of American.

Please don't bashed these guys if they haven't done anything wrong. You may bash when you think they make mistakes or do something stupid.

These candidates doesn't bash each other the way bloggers do.

OH   July 11th, 2008 6:12 pm ET

I would love to hear and read more from the avid Hillary supporters such as Lisa. She is so sweet! BUT have you given the maximum donation to Hillary's debt/campaign as yet? Hmmm...Only a pity that it is us who are paying down that debt and not you avid supporters.

Fact of the matter is out dear leader and President should shoulder the blame. He was the one who pulled the troops out of Afghanistan and invaded Iraq instead.

The "Mission Accomplished" message is yet to be written because our arch enemy is still at large. Does anyone remember a guy name "Osama"? Yeah, the one responsible for 9/11. Where the heck is he? Go figure!

John Smith   July 11th, 2008 6:11 pm ET

think the 18 million "bitter" Hillary supporters should just shut-up, vote for McCain, and pray for the best of a 3rd Bush and probably 4th term. This is the ONLY chance the Dems have to win the White House and it is theirs to screw it up as they have done in the past.

Thanks to Obama, he has shown that this nation can move beyond "crowing" of the old guard. Let us all be "cry babies" when MCain gets into office. So, Obama supporters should NOT in any way encourage the bitter Hillary supporters; let them sell their souls and the nation to McCain, Bush and the Republicans. No Dem will have a chance in 2012.

If 18 million love Hillary, then we can conclude that:
18 million other Dems hate Hillary,
12 million Independents hate Hillary, and
20 million plus more even hate Hillary. So, Hillary simply does not have a chance now or in the future!

WORST PERSON!!!!   July 11th, 2008 6:11 pm ET

To: Texas Trail Dog and Brian knoxville Tn......Where are You Guys!!!

Where are You! ........Can't HEAR YOU!!!!!

Obama The King?   July 11th, 2008 6:10 pm ET

Obama – Go after Osama NOW! Go back to Washington and convene your subcommittee that you've neglected for the last 2 years!

Catherine   July 11th, 2008 6:09 pm ET

Wait a minute! Wouldn't we have to find him in order to execute him?!?! Good luck Barack.

Brian   July 11th, 2008 6:09 pm ET

A Typical Republican states:

"Bush is a great president because a Terrorist attack has not occurred since 9/11"

The best thing you can take from this presidency is that the WORST thing that happened, during the presidency, didn't occur twice! That is sad..... Bin Laden wasn't even caught "Dead or Alive"

Dave   July 11th, 2008 6:09 pm ET

Aries – a 4×6 cell? You're too generous..Let him rot in a 2×3 cell.

Amazed   July 11th, 2008 6:08 pm ET

Soooooo Now you have to have visited a place before you are qualified to talk about their actions? Did Bush and Cheney go to Iraq before they attacked?

BTW Charlotte, He's the head of a sub-committe that would not be the ones calling a hearing. Check yourself before you wreck yourself.

GuyInColumbusOH   July 11th, 2008 6:08 pm ET

What would Jesus do??? Hmmmm....How very Christian of you Barack Obama !!!!

rogelio, CA   July 11th, 2008 6:06 pm ET

I oppose death penalty because it affects the entire family of the criminal HOWEVER Bin Laden Is such a pork that deserves to die for all of his hatred and crimes against Americans.

BOLD   July 11th, 2008 6:06 pm ET

A bold position, Obama! C'mon – why even ask such a question?

Linda31   July 11th, 2008 6:05 pm ET

Obama makes sense. At this point Bin Laden is enjoying himself and mocking the US. Although death would be too sweet, life is something he does not deserve. Obama sounds pretty strong to me.

Peter   July 11th, 2008 6:05 pm ET

This is essentially a non-story. I am against the death penalty for a variety of reasons (as are many people), but if anyone would deserve the death penalty, it would be Bin Laden. I think virtually all of the US would agree about that (hence this is a non-story).

To respond to some things other people say: 1) A real international trial (versus a sham trial) is essential, would diminsh the "martyr fear," and is exactly what Obama said he would seek, 2) The prosecutor seeks the death penalty before the trial... hence it is a death penalty case (which is why Obama said he would seek the DP), 3) It is beyond me how this is Obama "changing his position?"

J-Unit   July 11th, 2008 6:04 pm ET

And how do we know Osama Bin Laden is resposbile for 9-11? or if he even exists? If he is EVER found. He deserves a fair trial.

Remember we were duked into going into Iraq over WMD.

Dennis in Orlando, FL   July 11th, 2008 6:04 pm ET

Can you say President Barack Obama

Obama 08!!!!!!!!!!!

George   July 11th, 2008 6:02 pm ET

He is perfectly right about Afghanistan, a corrupted government can not give people confidence.

Can we just be American?   July 11th, 2008 6:02 pm ET

Yes stay focus – get Bin Laden and bring him to justice.... It is amazing that we are in Iraq fighting when Bin Laden is not there.... oh yeah WMDs right? which none was found and we have 4000 plus solders who sacrifice their life for what? Okay say Obama is not experience in these things but Bush and Cheney is right? I take Obama any day ... and remember the alternative is called McBush or McSame or Mc... yeah you get it!

scrambler   July 11th, 2008 6:01 pm ET

Finally someone who will focus on capturing Bin Laden and not just attacking other countries for oil. Smoke him out of his cave, Mr President. Go get em!

Obamanation 08

YES WE CAN!!!

Aimal   July 11th, 2008 6:00 pm ET

I am an Afghan American.. I visited Afghanistan last year and i will go for another visit next month.. I cant agree more with Sen. Obama. karazi goverment has done notthing for the last 5 to 6 years to ease the problems and difficulties people face ... Afghans are frustrated with his leadership and his corrupt government.... Supporting someone merely because he is our ally does not help to solve our problems.. we have seen that in Pakistan by supporting a dictator President Musharraf. IT is time to have someone in the WH who can tell the truth and demand right action rather than loyalty... Obama is in touch .. what we have in John Mccain is another arrogant third term Bush foreign Policy... WE NEED CHANGE IN AMERICA

Oh brother   July 11th, 2008 6:00 pm ET

The whole world wants him dead really – what is so profound about that statement???

Charlotte   July 11th, 2008 5:59 pm ET

How are we going to find bin Laden? The police, FBI etc. could not find Shandra Levy and she was in a park. This is a joke, we are a joke to the rest of the world. We have all the so-called technology yet we come up empty handed. Why doesn't someone follow those guys leaving the tapes at that news station? Seems simple to me, put them under surveilaqnce they will eventually have contact with someone high up in Al Qaeda? AAH what do I know...

DJ, LA, CA   July 11th, 2008 5:59 pm ET

So why are we spending billions in Iraq again? oSama had nothing to do with Sadam...but Bush/Cheney/Rove keep lying and spinning the facts to get people to believe otherwise.

Suzette   July 11th, 2008 5:58 pm ET

Yes, Lisa. You can just go ahead and write her name on the ballot in November, and stop whining with the neverending discussion of writing her name on the ballot. Move on, already.

Farrell, Houston, Tx   July 11th, 2008 5:58 pm ET

It should be no surprise that Obama wants the death penalty for bin Laden, all Americans want the same. However, while McCain and Bush beat the war drums in Iraq what did that have to do with the capture of bin Laden or WMD's. We need a leader, not a follower and Obama has proven not to be a Bush follower.

HereWeGo   July 11th, 2008 5:57 pm ET

Osama bin laden is already dead. Didn't he have kidney failure back in 2001? There is a million plus bounty on his head, he is not alive anywhere, he is probably been dead. He is too tall to miss.

Stephen H   July 11th, 2008 5:56 pm ET

To: Charlotte July 11th, 2008 5:04 pm ET

We all know about you and the rest of the childish PUMAs. Give it a rest will ya. Obama bashing is so old news with you guys. I shutter to think what you PUMA idiots will do if Obama wins in November. I can understand you not liking and therefore not supportin Obama, but why go out of your way to sabotage him. So childish and very irritating for the rest of us attempting to have an honest discussion of the topics here.

TonyNJHC   July 11th, 2008 5:55 pm ET

Darn straight bin Laden should get the death penalty. But what will Obama say on this topic if he becomes president. After all, he states he is the candidate for "change". I believe he will change his mind once again, as he is for change. Wear is the flag pin today Mr. Obama? The Flag of Our Nation is not something to be ashamed of. Millions of American Heros gave their lives over the years, as they believed our flag, the symbol of Our Rights & Democracy were worth fighting for. Then again, since you were raised in exotic lands, maybe this was not taught to you in your younger years.

Nate HUSSEIN   July 11th, 2008 5:51 pm ET

Joe in NJ:

No Joe, that would embolden them to take hostages to exchange. Let him swing!

Diing   July 11th, 2008 5:49 pm ET

You run the risk of making Osama Bin Laden a martyr if you killed him without trials. However, a death penalty would deny and reduce him to nothing. Remember Saddam Hussein, he will never inspire people, but it would have been a different story had he been killed in action.

Senator Obama is one heck of a smart man. He epitomizes…the best part of the United States. His position is shared by millions of people.

A SONGBIRD SANG IN VIETNAM   July 11th, 2008 5:49 pm ET

If we can find Bin Laden and give the death sentence for killing 3000, how about we find Bush/Cheney and give the death sentence for sending 4100+ of our young people to be killed –

Stephen H   July 11th, 2008 5:48 pm ET

To: Lisa July 11th, 2008 5:06 pm ET

Lisa wrote:
July 11th, 2008 5:06 pm ET

I'm sorry Obama supporter from Fl, it's just so sad that we're stuck with McBama & McBush. Please help me, is there anything I can do besides write Hillary's name on the ballot?

Get a life Lisa. Another bitter Hill-hypocrit whose sole aim is to attempt to sabotage Obama. Hillary has moved on and its time for you and the rest of the childish PUMAs to do the same. I wonder what are you guys going to do if Obama wins in November? You all will be forced to continue living the life of frustration and futility.

jason   July 11th, 2008 5:48 pm ET

Like Ben Laden is responsable for anything...come on people get a clue.

EJ   July 11th, 2008 5:47 pm ET

The statement made by Alex Conant and the RNC represents exactly what America is sick of - this hear-no-criticism, cowboy diplomacy that has led us so far off-track in terms of pursuing an effective foreign policy that we now see more deaths in Afghanistan than we do in Iraq. Their approval ratings have gone so far south that I wonder if they've forgotten how to take criticism constructively and include other sides in the debate.

Doreen Johnson   July 11th, 2008 5:47 pm ET

"World justice" Please Obama, you do not speak for this Canadian – no death penalty, ever, ever, ever!

My goodness, where's Hillary???!

Ralph   July 11th, 2008 5:42 pm ET

Civilized people don't support the death penalty.

Marc PDX   July 11th, 2008 5:42 pm ET

@Independent Colorado... I usually don't cross talk to other posters, but I think you're confusing "strength on foreign policy" with thoughtless use of force. You can be powerful and forceful while still being weak on foreign policy. Policy, in and of itself, is not the same as force.

Honestly, it is sad how thoughtless Barack Obama's supporters are. Democracy is the best form of government but it still has glaring weakness in that you can vote even if you're too dumb to drive.

Sheesh!

Ian   July 11th, 2008 5:41 pm ET

And what penalty should leaders who took their country to war under false pretexts pay? How should they pay for the thousands of deaths, the thousands maimed and injured, the destruction of property and infrastructure that has exposed an entire nation to great hardship?

Sure, you can remove your boogeymen with extra-judicial executions, illegal internment camps, and sham legal instruments, but such actions only cement world opinion in regard to America's over-reach. And really, how wise would it be to make a martyr of Osama Bin Laden (if he is even still alive)? Other than ensuring a lasting legacy for your "trademark" War on Terror, it would do little to make America (or the world in general) a safer place.

Marie   July 11th, 2008 5:41 pm ET

Death is a honor for him. To rawly kill him will be seen to many (far to many) in the world as martydom. If caputured alive, bring him before a world court and let the powers that be judge and execute him for his crimes. The US maybe lesser known as the great Satan.

AJ in Fla   July 11th, 2008 5:41 pm ET

Mr. Obama please make sure that you first check with France and then with the ACLU..!!!! and don't forget Ms. Pelosi and Mr. Reid as they may have some demented liberal idea.

God help us...!!!!

Obama Supporter from FL   July 11th, 2008 5:40 pm ET

Lisa – I think if you took a look at their positions (their webpages are very helpful) you would see that Obama and McCain have very different positions on a number of issues. Which issues matter to you? Once you figure that out, you'll know how to vote. If I were you I would rather vote for the lesser of two evils than throw my vote away – a write-in campaign for president will never end up being anything other than a joke.

Tully   July 11th, 2008 5:38 pm ET

arent osama and obama cousins?

Neil   July 11th, 2008 5:38 pm ET

Yes Lisa, if you still plan on writing Hillary's name thus making the ballot not count as write-ins are not tallied (it's diffferent for every state), go ahead. Take you psych meds while you're at at it too. Hillary has hung up the pantsuit, get over it!

Rose   July 11th, 2008 5:35 pm ET

Obama will say anything the people want to hear, to hear him talk, he is never wrong, he thinks he knows everything there is to know. Without his advisors, he would have no clue, people don't vote for advisors, they vote for the candidate and this guy is nothing but an empty suit with a big mouth!!!

Marc PDX   July 11th, 2008 5:34 pm ET

I'm a republican but I don't believe in the death penalty. Life without possibility of parole yes, but death no. I don't believe a human (or a government) should decide who lives and who dies. So Obama's position on this puts him the the right of me... which I find utterly perplexing! Would a fellow liberal please explain this to me – I didn't think that the death penalty was a liberal position? What gives?

Griff   July 11th, 2008 5:34 pm ET

You are Black, Obama.... Just like the other Jackson... You can't wash it off.... Maybe you need a Nose-Job too?????

Hopeful, Not Practical   July 11th, 2008 5:33 pm ET

No, Lisa. As an American you don't have a choice except to write Hillary's name on the ballot. You can also hope that others will write Hillary's name on the ballot. But in the history of our country, we've never elected a president through a write-in vote. So it's hopeful, but not practical.

What's practical is to say that you don't have a president that would have been your choice, but you will find SOMETHING about that president that you can have a mutual understanding. Otherwise, it's going to be a long four years.

Interesting   July 11th, 2008 5:31 pm ET

George July 11th, 2008 5:03 pm ET

What if he agrees to sit down and have a spot of tea. I am sure he will listen to reason. NOBAMA is such a politician.

He has nothing new to say he sounds like someone running for High School President…..

He is a NOVELTY being used by the left. SAD……..

--

You must be the most simple minded guy in this blog by far. If I can suggest... I think people like you suppost to read and wonder NOT write so please just read.

I'll bet that you elected Bush too, didn't ya? hahah I knew it!!

Cody   July 11th, 2008 5:30 pm ET

I support you Obama. Even on FISA (I think). But not on this. Either the state should have the right to take a prisoner's life or it should not. Your position that the death penalty should be reserved only for the most heinous folks has no way to be objectively implemented. Who decides what "most heinous" is? This is the same kind of soft-minded, sentimentalist nonsense that so many conservatives push.

Griff   July 11th, 2008 5:30 pm ET

This piece of Garbage, would say anything to get elected... And you trust him CNN?????????????????

James Hussein, SC   July 11th, 2008 5:29 pm ET

Although Senator Obama has indicated that he supports the dealth penalty for Osama B. L., it is up to the courts to make the final verdict. So let's start thinking folks.

voter   July 11th, 2008 5:29 pm ET

Charlette said: Maybe if Obama had held a meeting on Al Qeada in Afghanastan in the last 18 months he was chairman of that committee, I would believe his current stance. I use the word current because if it stirs a controversity, he will ask us to allow him to refine what he said.

Obama is the chair of European affairs. Last time I checked, Afghan is not in europe, but the middle east. The chair of afghan is kerry and biden.

Ron democrat turned independent   July 11th, 2008 5:28 pm ET

this obama is a joke he going to go into Afghanistan tell the head of the country he doesn't like what he's doing then try to jab his superior judgement down his throat. lots of luck . he will end up fighting Pakistan and maybe Iran then back to Iraq. and do you know what he can't blame Clinton now so it will be all McCain and bush's fault what a joke

Republicans For Obama   July 11th, 2008 5:28 pm ET

YES!!!! Hurray For Obama!!!!

Bush and McCain have long forgot about Bin Laden, instead they have their heads stuck in the desert in Iraq.

Obama is the only one that is out to Capture Bin Laden, the real terrorist that attacked us on 9-11.

Republicans, Democrats, and Independents are going to vote for Obama by WIDE MARGINS!!!!!

Obama 08

Will, NJ   July 11th, 2008 5:26 pm ET

Who needs to execute him? Just "accidentally" unplug his dialysis machine.

Emily   July 11th, 2008 5:26 pm ET

I think we should be careful about giving him the death penalty..I believe that would simply make a martyr and another would step up to take his place. It is a double edged sword really, because I do believe his crimes are capital punishment worthy but killing him won't solve anything...then throwing him in jail has him supported by tax payers money...

Teddy California   July 11th, 2008 5:24 pm ET

I believe Obama once said we should not make Bin Laden a martyr by giving him a death penalty. This is another position change. It seems you can see a position change every day from him.

Jo   July 11th, 2008 5:23 pm ET

For those of you who agree with Obama and for those of you who don't, just wait awhile because he will "refine his positiion". He already has on a woman's right to choose, on FISA, NAFTA, Iraq and government sponsorship of religion. I have seen many write that the reason they did not support Clinton was that she would say anything to get elected. I think the complaint is valid but more for Obama

Monica for Obama in Indiana   July 11th, 2008 5:22 pm ET

At least we know that the Obama administration will not be afraid to go after bin ladin. The bush administration had him and let him go. Probably something to do with oil.

Trollmaster   July 11th, 2008 5:22 pm ET

Even Obama's position on Bin Laden is far better than the Republican position of not being concerned about finding him.

Even on matters of war, Obama has McCain beat.

bruja   July 11th, 2008 5:22 pm ET

Is there ANY proof Bin Laden is behind 9/11? There are other theorys...

Jeremiah Grant - Phoenix, AZ   July 11th, 2008 5:21 pm ET

My guess is many of you missed it, but the phrase "world justice" ought to concern you. Obama often talks about "international law", "world justice", and globalism.

Make no mistake about it, Obama is a globalist that wants to hasten the day when sovereign nations are no more, the day when countries of the world are governed by one global organization. You think the UN is bad now, wait until Obama gets done with the US. Then we'll have the UN on steroids and the US will have been castrated of even more of its sovereign rights. The Constitution will become a relic of the past as Obama subjects us to "international law" and "world justice". Personally, I'm quite concerned.

David Goldman   July 11th, 2008 5:20 pm ET

I AM WITH YOU THERE.

Griff   July 11th, 2008 5:18 pm ET

If you don't want the Jessie Jackson proof... Why the Blog Obama???
Your a Liar... Period....

Paul   July 11th, 2008 5:18 pm ET

Why would the US kill their best CIA operative?

NotFallingInLine.org   July 11th, 2008 5:14 pm ET

Watch Barry flip, flop and flounder to the right.

He's a disgrace.

NFIL Voter

NotFallingInLine.org

Aries   July 11th, 2008 5:09 pm ET

Death is a rich life for him, we've already spent enough on wars and immortality, let him have a poor life by rotting in his own mind in a 4 X 6.

Independent Colorado   July 11th, 2008 5:09 pm ET

Smart Man! I am tired of people saying Obama is weak on foreign policy. He knows how to use force but I agree with him that it should not always be the first course of action.

RAY   July 11th, 2008 5:08 pm ET

JOHN McCAIN WOULD NOT THINK ABOUT THE FATE OF BIN LADEN.HE WOULD NOT COST THE TAX PAYERS MONEY FOR KEEPING BIN LADEN IN JAIL FOR THE REST OF HIS LIFE. BIN LADEN WOULD BE EXECUTED IMMEDIATELY.....

Lisa   July 11th, 2008 5:06 pm ET

I'm sorry Obama supporter from Fl, it's just so sad that we're stuck with McBama & McBush. Please help me, is there anything I can do besides write Hillary's name on the ballot?

David, Silver Spring, MD   July 11th, 2008 5:04 pm ET

I think bin Laden, if caught, should be tried in court and when convicted given 3,000 life sentences without benefit of parole. Leave him in solitary confinement with nothing to read, watch, or listen to. Let him experience the loneliness of those who lost loved ones on 9/11.

Charlotte   July 11th, 2008 5:04 pm ET

Maybe if Obama had held a meeting on Al Qeada in Afghanastan in the last 18 months he was chairman of that committee, I would believe his current stance. I use the word current because if it stirs a controversity, he will ask us to allow him to refine what he said.

George   July 11th, 2008 5:03 pm ET

What if he agrees to sit down and have a spot of tea. I am sure he will listen to reason. NOBAMA is such a politician.

He has nothing new to say he sounds like someone running for High School President.....

He is a NOVELTY being used by the left. SAD........

Hillbilly for Obama   July 11th, 2008 5:03 pm ET

I say hang him from his toenails for the rest of his life ... if he even exists.

Kill people for killing people .... double standard and weak.

Enough ALREADY!!!!   July 11th, 2008 5:02 pm ET

Lisa........I'm glad the super delegates haven't made there final decision yet,..... maybe Hillary still have a chance. ARE YOU CRAZY!!!!

HILLARY IS SPOKEN FOR ! you make comments HRC that's my GIRL ...yea but you haven't donate 1 dime toward her DEBT .......quick faking in the POT !!!!!!

Chris from NY   July 11th, 2008 5:01 pm ET

The media has continually said Obama flip flopped on death penalty. Any one that has been following Obama's carrer knows fully well he has supported death penalty in some cases. What he did in Chicago was to help use death penalty appropriately. For people to jump the band wagon on this flip flop thing is beginning to drive me carzy.

I hope Osama Bin Laden commits suicide before we get to him. Otherwise he will regret the day he was born.

John from FL   July 11th, 2008 5:01 pm ET

Lisa is a well-known republican operative, she is still back in the primaries. Hey, I liked Huckabee but I am not voting for him because he did not make it. WAKE UP!!!

Joel Dean   July 11th, 2008 5:00 pm ET

Death penalty is the most ridiculous idea yet for Obama. You are playing right into their hands of being a matyr by death penalty.

Make him / them sit a a jail cell for the rest of their life so if they have any mind left, they can think about it every day.

Today's position   July 11th, 2008 4:59 pm ET

I can't wait to hear what Obama says next.

Independent-woman-4-Obama   July 11th, 2008 4:58 pm ET

BUSH FAILED TO CAPTURE BIN LADEN.......... WITH THE 650 BILLION THE WAR IN IRAQ HAS COST THE AMERICAN TAXPAYERS (THAT'S $1.38 BILLION A DAY) WE COULD HAVE CLEAN UP AL-QUEDA ALREADY!

mayahh   July 11th, 2008 4:57 pm ET

THOU SHALT NOT KILL, BRING HIM TO JUSTICE, HIS DAY IS SOON TO COME.......

Obama Supporter from FL   July 11th, 2008 4:57 pm ET

Lisa – get a clue! Wishing and hoping (and whining about Hillary on these blogs) won't bring her back!!!

Danel   July 11th, 2008 4:56 pm ET

Even though I disagree with you on FISA bill I will still vote for you because I am NOT a single issue voter. Your stance on Iran and bin Laden is very much in line with mine, so as with other more important issue like healthcare,economy and foreign policy. Obama08

David M. Buddingh in Naperville, IL   July 11th, 2008 4:56 pm ET

Joe in NJ

I agree with your position.

obama 08

Janet Jacme   July 11th, 2008 4:56 pm ET

You are a hard man Barack ... I like that.

Danny Zuko   July 11th, 2008 4:54 pm ET

It's about time someone remembers who Bin Laden is.

not important   July 11th, 2008 4:54 pm ET

So what is the USA doing in Iraq? Osama Bin Laden is not in Iraq.

Joe in NJ   July 11th, 2008 4:52 pm ET

That's right, execute him. That way he'll become a martyr to his followers giving them a reason to continue to promote terrorism. A better solution would be to lock him up and throw away the key. This will weaken Al Qaeda knowing that their "leader" has fallen and that they are not infallible.

David M. Buddingh in Naperville, IL   July 11th, 2008 4:49 pm ET

No suprise here considering his stance on the recent supreme court ruling.

obama 08

HANG HIM!!!   July 11th, 2008 4:49 pm ET

CNN--Barack Obama again said Friday he favors the death penalty for Osama bin Laden should the 9/11 mastermind be captured----
KILL HIM!!

Obama Supporter from FL   July 11th, 2008 4:49 pm ET

Seems like a safe position. Whether you like the death penalty or not, I think all of us want Bin Laden dead.

Lisa   July 11th, 2008 4:49 pm ET

I'm glad the super delegates haven't made there final decision yet, maybe Hillary still have a chance.

Jonathan, Hartford, CT   July 11th, 2008 4:48 pm ET

How long will it take YOU to find him?

Jonathan, Hartford, CT   July 11th, 2008 4:46 pm ET

Don't you want to sit down and talk with him, first?

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