(CNN) - Democrat-turned-independent Joe Lieberman, one of John McCain’s biggest Senate supporters, congratulated Barack Obama Wednesday on winning the presidential election.
"I sincerely congratulate President-elect Obama for his historic and impressive victory,” he said in a statement released by his Senate office. “America remains a nation of extraordinary opportunity and the American people are a people of extraordinary fairness.
“Now that the election is over, it is time to put partisan considerations aside and come together as a nation to solve the difficult challenges we face and make our blessed land stronger and safer. I pledge to work with President-elect Obama and his incoming Administration in their efforts to reinvigorate our economy and keep our nation secure and free."
The statement comes hours after a senior Democratic leadership aide told CNN that Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid is planning to meet with the Connecticut senator to discuss the future of his committee chairmanship. The aide said that Reid had not yet made a final decision on the question of whether Lieberman will continue to chair the Senate’ Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee.
Lieberman, who caucuses with the Democrats, alienated many within the party this cycle for his comments on the campaign trail questioning Obama’s judgment and patriotism. Shortly before he spoke at the Republican convention — where he repeated a GOP talking point that Obama had voted to “cut off funding for our troops on the ground” in Iraq - Lieberman suggested to the crowd at a McCain campaign event that the Illinois senator did not “put the country first.”
Last month, he told an interviewer that Republican criticism of Obama for his relationship with his former minister Jeremiah Wright and former radical Bill Ayers was fair because “one of the things you want to know is who have they associated with, because it may help you know who they'll listen to when they get into office."
But about two weeks ago, Lieberman’s tone seemed to shift, as he offered praise for his former party’s presidential nominee.
"When I go out, I say, 'I have a lot of respect for Sen. Obama. He's bright. He's eloquent.' Someday, I might even support him for president," he told Connecticut reporters, according to a report in the Hartford Courant. "But now in the midst of this series of crises, John McCain is simply so much better prepared that that's who I am proud to support." He added that if McCain’s presidential bid were to fall short, he would do everything he could to bring people "together across party lines to support the new president so he can succeed."
From CNN Politics
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Traitor Joe can't go away fast enough.
I think it's time for LIEberman to stop playing around and just join the republican party.
Give him the boot.
Another pathetic liar.
When it comes to Joe Lieberman, I think no comment sums it up nicely.
Heh, heh – just kiddin' guys. I didn't mean all that stuff. Quit playin' around....
Guys?
Guys............?
Too late Joe...
Leiberman's turn. Bub-Byeee.
Have fun in political Siberia, Joe.
He used be punished for lying about what he said at the convention on Obama, now he works to work with him. Strip him of everything. RAT
Help like yours, gee I think the country can do without!
You have got to be kidding me. This is one turn coat that needs to be put out to pasture but don't give him any hay to eat!!! He is one of the worse kind of "friends" of the Democratic party. LET HIM GO so the responsible people of this country can get busy fixing the problems the likes of his "kind" made!!!
blah, blah, blah Lieberman. I can respect your right to chose to vote for McCain. What I can't respect is your standing next to republicans spewing hate, lies and divisive statements and never once opening your mouth. Enjoy the bed you made.
LIE-berman....you two faced, snot nosed, backstabbing tool!
We aint buying it!
You are going to find yourself sitting on the sidelines.
KICK HIM OUT!!!! YOU ARE NOT ONE OF US!!!
Maybe the best way to put it in perspective is that George Bush proved one thing beyond a shadow of a doubt. Conservatism simply won't work in the 21st century as the rich and greedy just don't want to let enough trickled down.
Good. Lets get together and fix this country. We cant be part of Obama's vision of unity and exclude Sen. Lieberman for being non-partisan and backing McCain.
I say, welcome aboard Lieberman, McCain, Palin, Joe the Plumber, Pelosi, Reid and anyone else who wants to forgo their Democrat and Republican status and join the "American" party.
This is the most depressing and scary day of my life. I can't believe that an unqualified man became president. I really don't know what to say. I hope McCain, as senator, challenges Obama's decisions. He is really wrong. He is wrong for the U.S. He is wrong for the world, and he is definitely wrong for me. He is a blatant racist and sexist. Why people are fine with putting him the office is something I'll never understand.
Before this election ended... I was prepared to post a list of losers, with Lieberman on it (along with Joe The Plumber and Palin).
But, at this point, I just don't have those negative feelings anymore.... I can't really bash these people anymore.
Coming together is indeed a good idea.
Working together helps ALL of us in the end.
yeah, easy to say now after the group you supported got a beat down
Is he for real? he was kissing McCains behind. He was talking against Obama and Baiden and now that his Master last now he whants to come to Democrats side. Are you kidding me? can you be more two faced than him?
Lieberman is trying to make nice now that his good friend McCain lost and Joe is viewed as a turncoat. He's probably afraid that he's going to lose his big senate office that he's enjoyed and be relegated to a coat closet in the basement!
As a Connecticut native now living in another state, I would be remiss if I didn't state the fact that this man is a disgrace to our state and I pray that the voters will let their voices be heard once again when he is up for re-election.
He is an empty voice at this point and needs to retire.
Well, if I were Obama & the Democrats I would say to hell with Liberman but Obama being who he is will welcome everyone so that America is united on every front.
God Bless Obama
Joe Lieberman is a loser. He wants it both ways. He's not a democrat, but he votes with them.
He's not a republican, but he supports them while trashing the democrats.
He bet on the wrong horse, so now he's trying to make nice.
And now he may lose his place with the democrats as they take a large majority in the house and senate.
Who's butt are you going to kiss now, Joe?
Please Mr. Liberman. Leave the Democratic Caucuses and go to the Republicans!
Lieberman should crawl into a hole and be quiet. He will never be accepted or trusted by anyone in the Democratic party again, given his actions in this campaign.
Look...it's Benedict Joe LIEberman. Hopefully Reid will remove LIEberman from his chairmanship of the Government Affairs and Homeland Security committees.
One word: Schmuck.
Joe the snake, crawl back into your hole and take Joe the joke with you. You are nothing less than a backstabber. I hope the next election you are kicked to the curb!
Time to let this joker move over to the Republican side of the aisle...if they'll have him. Better yet, let's all just move on together without Joe Lieberman.
Thanks, but no thanks, Joe.
Joe only changed his tune when the outcome of the election started to become clear. Obama campaigned for Lieberman in his last run and defended him when not many others did. It's one thing to support another candidate, but Lieberman took the attacks too far. I hope Obama doesn't trust him now.
Thanks Joe, you are good man.
A true turncoat. Ried should throw the bum out on his @$$.
How many sides can you support?
I'm not saying that to be a partisan, it just seems that Sen Lieberman has no consistancy in his positions.
Right...I sincerely hope he crawls back under the rock and gets booted out of the Dem Party.
Sorry, Fairweather Joe.
I used to support you in CT. But since you change parties to suit your political agenda nearly every election cycle, and now, (have you heard?) your own Ind.party at home wants to throw you out, you're going to have to make up your mind and stick to it.
Oh Please!! It is time for you to disappear from existence. We don't need divisive people like you in this country!! So just GO AWAY!!
Lieberman should definitely get kicked out of the domocratic caucus
Whatever Joe! You were so divisive, and now you think we are going to listen to a work you have to say. I have no, let me repeat that, NO respect for you.
Lieberman looks like Emperor Palpatine from Star Wars. He certainly has the characteristics of a traitor/turncoat.
Weasel!!
"When I go out, I say, 'I have a lot of respect for Sen. Obama. He's bright. He's eloquent.' Someday, I might even support him for president," he told Connecticut reporters..."
Oh that Joe! Always trying to ride someones coat tails aren't you?
Just pick a side or don't Joe...stop trying to have it all.
The Democrats need to drop Joe Lieberman from our party and take away his chairmanship!
Lieberman wants to keephis seat
Take his chairmanship and render Lieberman powerless. When his seat is available, I hope the Democrates go after it relentlessly!!!!!!!!
Lieberman better be doing some kissing up, he's in an awkward position now.
This man is a weasel, seriously! After his negative comments about Obama and Democrats, now wants to kiss up! Kick Him Out Of The Caucus!
It is my hope our nation does "heal"..
Senator Lieberman, was not only biased, he was smug and condensending..
I am changing my political party from Independent to Democrat..
I hope the Democrat's do not allow the gentleman to caucaus with them...
He has shown himself to have no loyality except for whom he feels has the advantage...
I can't wait to see all the negative attacks on Lieberman- someone that goes with his heart and not always with his party. Go ahead hateful liberal eggheads.
YOU ARE GROSS
I believe Sen. Liberman has burned too many bridges to tell anyone it is time to come together.
What a Joke he is. Trying to save some of his career.
Joe, because of this election I am no longer a Democrat. I didn't leave the party, they left me. And I will not return.
In the words of Sarah Plain, " Say it ain't so Joe." Lie-berman should just remain with the Republicans.
good. do it from the side line.
this man is slime.
you can disagree without demonizing someone.
Dems son't need 60 votes.
Send him parking to a small office. I rather the give the chairman to McCain.
Although Obama didn't need Florida, I'm so happy it went BLUE in the face of Lieberman. Take that traitor!
Joe the Traitor right? Your kidding. I hope they kick you a.s out of the democratic party.
Send him back with Pailin – they ought to get along just fine.
Lieberman, at minimum, should be stripped of his committee chairmanship.
too bad they gonna kick your butt out the democratic caucus after all of your shinnanegans.
Lieberman made it very clear what side he was on. With friends like him, who needs him in the party? We need to come together, that is true, but he has chosen his party and his direction, so let him make them his bedfellows.
Puhleeze kick this lap dog looking Liebermoose out of the Democratic party! TRAITOR!
Reid should tell Lieberman to say with the GOP the Dems do not need him. That man is a poor excuse for a human being.
Joe, you are a virus.
I think it's funny that he cries out for unity when he trashed then Sen. Obama as not putting his country first. Again – I respect his right to support his candidate of choice, but the negativity absolutely doomed the Republicans this election. And Lieberman drank that Kool Aid. He deserves to lose the chair of that Senate Committee. Put someone there who can actually work with both sides of the aisle.
Say it aint so Joe.....now you gotta go!
Last night as I looked over the sea of humanity at Barack Obamas'
park appearance, I could only think of how it mirrored the joy of Third World countries when they deposed some dictator. Think about that,
here in the United States Of America we were overjoyed to hear and see a leader who cares about the People. It speaks volumes of how we think of Mr. Bush..
Barry was elected the first "African American" President; so now do all the African Americans believe they will get a leg up?
With this economy (an agenda with top priority), do you now believe that all the sudden you will be moving to the suburbs, attending ivy league universities or be at the top of the rung of the ladder in corporate America, (sad but true)?
Once the historic nature of the election wears off, it's back to business as usual; a bad economy, immigration issues etc...
The point is, that Barry does not simply work for the African American population, be realistic, you must bring about "change" within yourself.
NO WAY NO HOW!
Lieberman hasn't made up his mind for years now. He's clueless and directionless!
H Reid, please send him packing 60 isn't important enough!
Good luck Joe (have a six-pack and move to Alaska)
.........And this coming from BENEDICT himself!
Man, what a leech. I'm not one to believe in party loyalty only, but Lieberman has proven himself to be a whiny suckup, running to whatever side he thinks will give him the greatest benifit.
And now he's talking about parties working together, which means, "Please be nice to me, even though I've betrayed people's trusts constantly only for my own selfish gain."
I can't believe this guy was Gore's VP pick.
Trying to suck up to the new boss, ain't ya Joe. Well it shouldn't work after all the nasty things he did and said. Things unbecoming a Democrat. Toss him out Harry Reid! Or at least strip him of his committee chair. Those are reserved for REAL Democrats. Not Quislings.
Nothing he does helps either party. He's nothing to anyone now. He's not a brother, he's not a friend. I don't want to know him or what he does.
Congratulations Mr. President.
It is time for Republicans to do some soul searching. Their lies, arrogance, cockiness, elitism, exclusivity is way off on their idealogy. They need fresh face, such as Palin and other young qualified, new generation of Republicans that are more pramatist and centrist. The old dudes should retire and hand over the baton.
Connecticut please recall this jerk and give America another Democrat!
BENEDICT ARNOLD....get rid of him
Lieberman blew it. He didn't even disagree with Obama on issues. He just dug up stuff on Ayers when Obama was 8, and exaggerated Obama's votes to get us out of an unpopular war.
Moreover, the democrats no longer need him to get 60 votes in the senate.
I say, let a democratic senator run the committee. If he wants to be on it, fine, but he lost that privilege when he campaigned for McCain.
As for the question of Obama's experience, McCain negated that argument when he put a small town mayor one 72 year old's heartbeat away from the top office.
Thanks but no thanks Joe.... Joe is a flip flopper... Not only did he turn his back on his party but he bashed a good man to help his friend. That is not the type of support or lack there of this country needs or wants .... And that showed at the polls yesterday.
Traitor is the only nice thing I can say about this man.
Kick the traitor out !!
Joe just needs to go away....he has proven to be too unstable to be an effective representative of any population...
Reid should dump him now. The Senator did everything he could to defeat Obama, and now that he has won, he wants to be called back to the fold. I don't think so. Last nights mandate by the American people cannot be squandered.
OK..NeoConservative masquerading as a liberal wants us all to play nice.
I'm playing just fine.
Although I voted Libertarian, I can take Obama a whole lot better than having Palin near the oval office.
I'm OK
Lieberman, you're history. A little less anger in the campaign trail and maybe you could have save some of your dignity. But now, you are as defeated as an independent-Republican as you were as a Democrat. Is there any other politician who has suffered this?
Look at his face hypocrite,,, back off Joe nobody want to ear or see you again..
Here is a man I used to respect so much. For some unknown reason, he has simply "sold" his soul and life for wealth and fame.
I can never understand: We are called upon not to judge (others for abortion, prostitution, gun, color etc), but to "LOVE our neighbor as ourselves." This, plus "Love the Lord thy God with your whole heart" are the greatest and BEST commands given by Christ to mankind!
Joe Lieberman is such an opportunist. How is he going to bring people together? He sold his soul to McCain/Palin which spewed racial hatred, division, and fear which means he supported their hateful and spiteful beliefs. At least McCain's concession speech seemed truly sincere and was the most impressive thing I've seen come from his entire campaign.
Joe Liberman makes me angry. I really don't like him, or how he handles things..GO AWAY JOE!
is someone a little scared of his future in the senate?
Flip Flop Joe, it's time for you to go!
Joe Lieberman doesn't feel too important now, now that Democrats have secured enough senate seats that they won't have to have him to reach majority.
Joe Lieberman, I offer this consolation... "Build bridges instead of walls and you will have a friend...
Lieberman is a phoney, changing his rhetoric to suit himself or the situation. Can he be demoted? I'm all for bipartisanship, but Joe is untrustworthy and offers little to our government.
This Benedict Arnold needs to go back home, and never show his face on a public stage again.
Think about your future Joe the Lie Ber Man.
She should be kicked out of the Democratic caucus.
There was no problem had he just supported McCain. But he spreaded Republican propaganda against his own partyman. This party gave him the opportunity to become the vice-president of this country and somehow it didnt work out. he should have been grateful to his party. Instead what he did? He ran against party candidate for Senate and got elected with republican help. I guess he wanted to return the favor. Democratic leadership just should kick him out. Once a traitor, always a traitor.
Joe,
Go to Alaska with Sarah....
Obama is a better person then me... I am sure he will let you back in
But Harry Reid might not........ think about it....
All the Joe's must go....... Plumber, traitor senator, six pack, etc... I don't want to hear about another G D Joe....
This is truly a sad day in America.
Lieberman can't have it both ways – he has made his choice and lost. Adios.
I'm surprised at the comments on here by democrats. They're hardly in the spirit of what Obama stands for. I believe "Unity" went along with change in his campaign.
There is such a thing as a poor winner as well....
I don't agree with Joe in supporting McCain over Obama, but that was his decision to make. However, I'm not a politician in a political party. I could understand why the Democrats might want to remove him from various committees. The cynic in me believes he is trying to preserve his position in Congres, but I do hope that he sincerely means to work with the Obama administration to solve the nation's problems.
Life's you know what isn't Joe? It's not that you supported McCain, it's that you went to the RNC and disrespected the new President of the US. I think the Senate should show you as much loyalty as you showed the Democrats when this country needed all of its leaders most.
Just put a for sale sign on him!
dEMOBRAT November 5th, 2008 1:39 pm ET
I can't wait to see all the negative attacks on Lieberman- someone that goes with his heart and not always with his party. Go ahead hateful liberal eggheads.
YOU ARE GROSS
-------------
Brat,
Did you actually write that, and then call other people hateful? Got hypocracy?
Bless your soul!
Loserman needs a new hobby besides political suicide.
I have not seen anyone backtrack faster since Michael Jackson did the moonwalk!! See ya later Joe LIE berman.
Flip, flop, flip, flop... PLOP!
I think Lieberman had every right to speak his mind in support of his candidate. Joe is a great public servant and supported his friend and colleague in his presidential campaign. Harry Reid should not penalize Joe for speaking his opinion and should definitely not remove him from his committee charimanship. Now is the time for us to unite behind President Elect Obama and Joe has an extensive record of service and in reaching across party lines. God Bless America!
RAT! RAT! RAT!
Let it go Lieberman...the dems don't want you back. Good luck in your new republican role...
Supporting McCain is one thing. But making misleading statements and fear-inducing lies against Obama is unforgivable for a supposed "independent." The only way I would respect Joe Lieberman is if he had only made positive comments about McCain instead of negative attacks and fear-mongering against Obama. That crossed way over the line and he should be moved aside.
Back circa 2000, I used to admire both John McCain and Joe Lieberman, but they both changed their ways to be more like Bush. I'm happy that this means he probably will still caucus with the Democrats, but he went from someone who I thought was great for speaking his mind and not being so partisan to one of the biggest flip-floppers, wafflers, etc. in political history.
They both are the political equivalent of a "fair weather fan".
Once a traitor always a traitor...
Dems better strip the idiot of every last shred of any sort of power he's got. Kick him across the aisle.
Impeach Lieberman NOW!!
jack said it monts ago lieberman better pray mcCain win,well he did not so now its time to, come together you should have renemeber thatwhen you try to slater obama.
I'm almost ashamed that Lieberman is senator from my home state. He always appears willing to put himself above everything else – and then tries to play it off as bi-partisanship. For him, there is only uni-partisanship – the party of Joe.
Is there a more slimy character in American politics than Joe Lieberman? Nearly chosen to be the VP candidate for the REPUBLICAN PARTY! Sorry Joe, you cynically backed the wrong side and now your career is over.
"A double-minded man is unstable in all his ways". 'Nuf said.
don't you even try it Lieberman when you accepted our dem vote and then supported the repubs you betrayed us.....we in CT are waiting patiently to vote you out!!!!!! Believe me we will
Look at the Liberals today. They won victories in the White House and in Congress and they are still not content. I knew that if obama was elected then the most liberal of the Democrats would gang up on the moderate Democrats and try to oust them. Lieberman was already screwed over by the Dems so why should he expect anything from them now? He is the only man in that party that has guts and courage
Corny, phony, and like a ship toss to and fro. TELL HIM TO SIT DOWN SOMEWHERE AND BE QUIET.
Giving him chairmanship is like putting lipstick on a rogue pig
Here is someone with true courage and stands up for what he believes in. Thank you senator, there are not enough of you representing americans. Your party abandoned you for not "falling into line". Pelosi, Dean, Reed, Dodd and Frank should all be ashamed of themselves.
When I wrote to my senators you responded immediately. Dodd's team didn't even have the decency to send a canned "Thank you for contacting us..." for 2 months.
Thank you Senator Lieberman for all your service. Please keep up the fight and being an honest voice.
Sounds to me that he is going to end up shooting himself in the other foot. He made his decision and he said his derogatory statements about Obama and now he must live with it. Saying he is going to reach across party lines now is just plain hypocritical.
Comments like these are more proof of why we need to get rid of both parties. Finally get someone who crosses party lines and the party fanatics wants him toasted. To heck with the Democrats and Republicans. We need more independents like Joe that stand up to party wanks. We certainly dont need more intolerance whether it is liberal or conservative... it is still intolerance.
Now that the Democratic party has a clear majority in the Senate, Lieberman can count on getting a one-way ticket to political Siberia.
Sorry, Joe. You're not getting on THIS bandwagon.
Lieberman is the most divisive member of the Senate. He was defeated by his own party but chose to ignore it. In international affairs he puts the interest of his own country second. We need this man expelled from the democratic caucus and stripped of his committee leadership position.
Lieberman is a Bush-lover. He's supported illegal wars and wiretapping. He's supported the desecration of the constitution. He's supported TORTURE. He's poison. Give him to the republicans ... he sure ACTS like one.
My goodness – talk about a man that flip-flops. Traitor Joe should go back to Alaska with Palin!!
Kick judas out and use the back door
Fire him from any democratic chairmanship. He doesn't deserve for this "traitorship." One thing to disagree but another to work against your own party by villying and trivializing Obama. Hate came from this mouth. We don't need his support. There were lots of decent Republicans senators. You can get thier support, but not this person.
Time to say goodbye, Joe! America's history does not have enough room for another Benedict Arnold!
Oh, okay, now you're a Dem again, huh Joe? What a slime ball.
Maggie, you seem to be person of limited intellect as you know only one phrase, one pejorative phrase which you appear to use indiscriminately. You are either a child, a guttersnipe, or someone in the first stages of dementia. You candidate won. Why not experience a little joy?
Time for Joe to go. With their new Senate majority, and since Joe votes with the GOP anyway, let him go caucus with them too, and let the DNC target his seat in the off-year election. Joe can run as a Republican.
Lieberman is weak. The Dems should shut him out all they can.
Joe sees which way the wind is blowing...
You are fired.
I want his chairmanship taken away and have his office moved to the bowels of the building. The democrats don't need you Joe. And the sooner voters give you the boot the better for Connecticut .
the #1 loss for mccain is caused by J.lieberman, he was trying very hard to help mccain but most american people looked at him as the politician trader. we are very smart nation.
Start your back tracking Joe and pray Reid doesn't strip you of your Chairmanship.
Joe,
How can you even stand your own self? Trying to keep up with those 2 faces!!!! Americans are very astute!!! We see straight thru your phony -blank-blank!!!! You will be dealt with Traiter!!! Spineless creature!!! I do not have any respect for you!!!!
Too late Joe the Lieberman. You backstabbed Obama and now you are going to be left out.
Keep Lieberman away from Obama. That guy is "the cooler", he will turn you from hot to cold, from winner to loser. Just ask Gore.
We all know that you are lobbying for a spot in the Obama administration. You fraud!!
Time for Liberman to jump ship I suppose. But the demos will accept his appology and him back into the fold because we must be inclusive. God bless America!!!
Lieberman's support for McCain was centered around the war in Iraq and the fact that Lieberman is (Isreal first , America second). Regardless of how he feels about social issues, he feels that it's his duty to keep America on the front lines against Israel's enemies. If that means being Republican then so be it. I say GOOD RIDDANCE!!!
On many issues, Lieberman supports the Democratic party agenda, and therefore, he should be allowed to caucus with the Democrats.
Joe is ineffective has no teeth to bit anything, leave him alone, he has costed Al Gore the 2000 elections and has done the same now to McSame, anywhere Joe Lieberman is, there is unsuccess.
Why is anyone even talking to Lieberman? Off to political obscurity with you, Joe!
Joe, Joe, Joe. You can't have it both ways. Try to figure out who you are. This may likely be your last term. Do something positive with the time you have left.
Forgive Joe. Forgive Sarah Palin. Forgive John McCain. It's time to move beyond partisan politics. Everybody's help and cooperation is needed.
The only thing I can say to Joe Lieberman is:
"Pucker up, big boy!!"
I'm still quite disgusted with Lieberman – he sold his soul... Shameful... Just shameful... It's time to retire Joe!
I love cnn. U.R the best.
WHAT A RAT! KICK HIM OUT!
I am lovin' all the "reach-across-the-aisle," uniting sentiment here with Obama's supporters. "Change we can believe in" I'm sure!
What you meant Joe was, Obama didn't put Israel first so that’s why would not support him. You above all else should not be questioning Obamas patriotism
I like Lieberman. I just thought what he did was wrong. You can break from party lines. Even support the other party but to speak against your party is wrong. I watched Lieberman at the RNC and was totally shocked.
As for the Democrats what they did to him at his last election and supported someone else and not him was not right either.
If the democrats do not give him a chair then he should and most likely will not vote with the democrates
Too bad that we don't have more people like Lieberman – maybe we would get something done in the country. But of course, the radical left will want his seat because he doesn't support every doctrine that they do. Just like the radical right used to attack McCain when he reached across the aisle. Hopefully the election of Obama will serve as a unifier and not a divider on many levels.
All Lieberman's so-called Democratic Party friends turned their backs on him when he ran against Lamont and won saying he'd remain in the Dem caucus. Dodd, Schumer et al trashed years of friendship and working on the same team and chose party over the person. Despite this Lieberman remained in the Dem caucus and gave the Dems their majority in the Senate – without which Harry Reid would not have been the majoiry leader and the Dems would not have had the Committee chairs. Now that they don't need Lieberman for the majority and it seems he won't be the 60th Dem (thank goodness), they'll trash him again.
Is this all indicative that Harry Reid et al will be the ones to really control the agenda and Obma will merely be their puppet? Good, one more to join a filibuster.
If Obama was smart he'd put Lieberman in his cabinet. Defense secretary possibly. That would at least reach part way across the aisle.
dEMOBRAT November 5th, 2008 1:39 pm ET
I can't wait to see all the negative attacks on Lieberman- someone that goes with his heart and not always with his party. Go ahead hateful liberal eggheads
-------------
That's MISTER liberal egghead to you!!!
Our forefathers created a party system that permits differences of ideas and thoughts. Unity is not giving up your ideas, thoughts and convictions to satisfy someone else. Our two party system creates a necessity of compromise. We can support our president by disagreeing with them. President Bush has had his detractors who disagreed strongly. 55 million people did not vote for B Obama's ideas! Freedom of speech is one of our greatest freedoms. All great leaders do not surround themselves with yes men. In fact it was B. Obama who said his VP pick was one who did not agree with him all the time. So to all those Democratic (liberals) who have complained (with the idea of unity) for the last 8yrs. plus..chill out...it's our time to complain.
Just another side kick!!!!!
Liarman, Time To Go Away!
To little to late after even questioning Obama's patriotism. The Democrats should remove him from his chairmanship pronto..
when you have only one issue israel,to support opposite candidate and bashing your candidate.
Do you think democrats should forgive you?
you must be kidding.
when the republicans had power the demoncats wanted partisanship, now that they have the power they dont want partisanship, what a bunch of hypocrits!
Let Joe join with the republicans. He should be punished for his behavior.
He is only in this for himself. He has proved this over and over again. Ried should be rid of him until he proves himself to be loyal to someone.. He is only loyal to himself, not his state, not his constintuency, not his party. Oh yes his party in independent.. He is loyal to himself.. He should never be the chairman of one of the most important committees in the world.. Give it PAtty Murray, she understands the need to defend the miliatry and the ports of our country.
Its hard to read this and believe this man is sincere but Obama being a true leader will probably brush it off as just being part of the political process. He'll probably shake Joe's hand and pat him on the back and just move on (he did it for Biden who also bashed him during the early primaries). But Joe I have one question for you – what really made you roll-back your rhetoric about Obama?
Is he kidding? Now that his candidate lost, he wants back in the fold? I don't think so; I think that he needs to be stripped of his trappings of power and put out there alone as an independent. If he wants to vote with the Democrats, fine. If not, that's fine too. I hope his constituents realize what a mistake they made in returning him to power after he lost in the primaries. Joe deserves to become a pariah in the Senate. He made his bed; now he needs to lie down in it.
He is just another Republican in disguise who chose to support the Republican Party for the sake of the party rather than see what the majority of American's saw...
A man for All of the People!
After eight years of Failed Bush policy maybe we can now, finally, put this country on the right track.
Oh, and by the way, I am a middle-aged white woman from Ohio (I am so proud of my state).
It is a GREAT day to be an American!
Here's an idea: Elect all new officials to the house and senate.
Run Joe Run ... Dems are coming after you. LOL ....
Liberman may be the only independent democrat who votes liberally on social issues and fiscal issues who wants to win the "War on Terror and keep our Armed Forces #1 in the world so we can be a secure nation. Thank you for being the only democrat who had the backbone to stand up against his own party on the most important issue in America securing the lives of our citzens as well as our Armed Forces! Lets see if our next president has as much backbone??????
...NO, NOW IS THE TIME TO CLOSE AND LOCK THE DOORS, PULL DOWN THE WINDOW SHADES AND CLEAN HOUSE! Lieberman is political slime of the lowest ilk and should suffer the consiquences of his choices to run with the "Big Dogs"... now he's got the flees to proove it... KICK HIM OUT!
Joe,
please join Joe the plumber and perhaps the two of you could go on saturday night live. After all the smear from your mouth attacking Obama about cutting and running, Joe you owe Obama and the DNC an apology.
James
how is he going to keep his senate seat... people of CT should recall him ....
This issue belongs to CT. Let his state deal with him.
Reid should consider removing his chairmanship, but we talk to our enemies and our friends.
We should keep him in the caucus as long as he is willing to vote with us. Let each state bear the responsibility for their representative. I say this as a Democrat who is thrilled at the prospect of getting rid of Bill Sali. But more as an American called to heal a rift by his President-Elect.
As long as the President-Elect Obama will fight for me, I will listen and respond as best I can. He called for unity, so we will remember, but we also forgive.
Lieberman is a loser. I hope the Dems destroy his politcal career.
Funny how the most divisive politicians: McCain, Palin, Lieberman, are now callung for us "to come together" as a nation.... this, after they did everything they could to drive a wedge between liberals and conservatives..... Lieberman is a hypocrite.
seriously, traitor? Joe and Colin Powell are exactly what is right with this country...this ridiculous "party first" mentality is what got us in this mess. Joe has worked with John for 30 years and let's remember John worked very closely with the Dems too. All the Democrats with all your hate, seriously, I am sorry that you are so upset, but get over it, you won, be happy...I am happy for you.
Go back to your little country and retire.I dont consider you an American.
Throw this bum out of Democratic party.
Joe the Loser Lieberman should go team up with Joe the Loser Plumber to help him lose that bid for Congress he's been talking to the media about. Call the team Joe the Jokers.
LOL!
Now Joe wants to put partisanship aside. I hope those good folks in Connecticuit kick his sorry butt out of office when his time is up.
What a fool.
To Mary, who is depressed and scared. Open your eyes and get some help from a professional therapist. Obama is right for our great country and for the world. That is why he got over 50% of the votes. It is you, sadly, who has been so wrong.
Run baby! Run!! but clean that chairmans seat before you leave.
What would Tony Soprano do...?
I can understand and tolerate anyone who is on the opposite side, because I know their position. What I can't tolerate is people liike Joe Liberman who defects and actuqaqlly appeared on Mc Cain's platform and then wishes President Elect Obama well. He should be ashamed of himself. The Democratic Party should amend their constitution to deal with such people like Liberman the opportunist.
His smirk is disgusting.
Traitor Joe should not be allowed to sit with the democrats. He is a back stabbing hypocrite. His remarks accusing Barak Obama of being un-patriotic was disgraceful and will not be forgotten. Anyone who trust this man will soon regret it. He can't win as a democrat,so he has to rat them out to the republicans in order to get their suuport.
It's time for Joe to go away; he can't have it both ways.
Since Lieberman already commited political suicide, it is time for Democrats of Connecticut to replace his unsavory remains with a real Democrat.
Guys's got a lotta gall.Bolt from the Democrats when he does'nt win,then asks to be included?Go away Lie-berman,we don't need you.Sycophant!!
I address this comment to dEMOBRAT . . . please . . . just take a breath. The time for knee-jerk reaction to one another must stop. I'll bet that Joe Lieberman will be treated with respect and become a valuable part of the new administration. Additionally, I'll bet that many Republicans will be tapped to take an active role . . . all of us should be considering what we can do to make our country and our communities better places. We have this opportunity. Let us not squander it. We are all in this together.
This guy I cannot respect. I have not hate for him but have no respect for him because of the garbage that came out of his mouth.
He is not one that will attempt to come together-I see him as being a man who will do his best to make President-Elect Obama fail in whatever he attempts to do to heal this country and bring it forward into the 21st century.
He needs to go and be alone for awhile and really think about who he is what he has done over the past couple of years.
He needs some time for reflection.
Now that we have a president-elect, if we are to reach across party lines to move forward, Joe Leiberman should participate as well. To suggest that he be railroaded out of town is to continue the partisan politics we have the opportunity to stop. Joe Leiberman supported whom he thought to be the better of the two candidates. According to the voters, he was wrong. However, he has a depth of knowledge that can be of great use to the new administration. Were I Obama, I would ask Leiberman to help me reach across the isle to help gain republican support.
Of all the Joes that appeared during the election campaign, Joe the Lieberman is the least worthy of mention.
i say throw lieberman out by the collar. he can work for mitch from here on out.
Mary,
looks like you are racist, not Obama.
I believe and hope Barack Obama will reach out to the Republicans and solicit their support maybe even name one into his cabinent. I think this reaching out is paramount to ending partisan divide and moving our country in the right direction. Having said that, I hope Lieberman is tossed out of the Caucas. This guy does not deserve to represent the caucas. He could have supported McCain without attacking Obama's character and judgement.
The democrats should kick him out...you should have heard the things that he was saying about the democrats behind their backs!!!! TIME TO GO JOE!!!!!!!!!!!
Lieberman, you are just in it for yourself.....I know the kind of kid you were......
I don't fault Lieberman for helping his friend, McCain. But attacking Obama after begging for his help – and getting it – last cycle in CT was pathetic and unnecessary.
Lieberman is a mealy-mouthed bonehead.
That said, it might not be a good time for the Democrats to use vindictive tactics against those that did not support them, in the name of unity. Besides, they might need Lieberman's help on a lot of issues.
Ont the other hand, it might be foolish to let him head a Homeland Security committee in which his own views don't even agree with those of the party. That seems ridiculous.
So I am not sure, probably toss him off the committee but throw him some other bone and let him continue to caucus with the Dems if he wants to.
As much as Sen. Lieberman deserves to be put out in a political Siberia, the Democrats are going to have to hold their noses and solicit his vote anyway. As much as he regrets his defection from the Democratic Party, he still wields considerable influence with his independent vote.
Benedict Arnold, I mean, Joe Lieberman, this "insert expletive" wants to talk about unity after all the division he caused. Trying to save a political career much?
Oh, please. Why does this turncoat get even a second's notice?
This man left the party because he lost a primary and wanted to be re-elected so badly...I wish him well in the future...it does not seem too bright for him.
The most intelligent (maybe ONLY intelligent) person in Washington. No wonder he gets criticized on here...
I think enough is enough for Joe L. He can't be trusted and he turns coats frequently for his own benefit. A poor Senator and he does not belong anywhere near Democrats. I think Alan is right, he has been proven to be a 'traitor Joe,;
Time to take up another trade, Joe- maybe you could become a plumber and REALLy be the darling of the failed Republican party.
I can't believe he was the VP candidate once... How far some people have fallen. Joe is today's Benedict Arnold, though that might even be to nice.
LIEberman must go. He made his bed now he needs to sleep in it. He can't have it both ways. But time will tell if the Democrats really need him on their side to break any filibusters. Either way, this flip-flopper should NOT be re-elected by the good people of Connecticut. They deserve better.
Hey! Hey! Ho! Ho! It is time for Joe to Go! Go!
For the Democrats, having Joe Lieberman in the caucus would be like the New England Patriot's invisiting teh opposing team to listen in on their huddles.
Maybe he can go get all mavericky and caucus with McCain and maybe Palin when she appoints herself to replace Ted Stevens. They can be the Nevericky "Independent" Republicans.
Lieberman...your services are no longer needed. Please vacate the Chairman's office immediately.
We should never come together. I wouldn't want to be around these bloggers who totally are an example of what Michelle Obama said "America is a mean country". You guys are a disgrace to America.
This is the best day for my grandchildren because their mother is white and their father is black and I am so proud to be their grandmother.
As an Obama supporter, I disagree with most of the postings on this site. The democrats need Lieberman (even though I think he and all the rest of the career politicans need to be voted out) to help Obama get his agenda pushed through. Remember, people, things said on the campaign trail are not always what they appear to be. It was all about winning and Lieberman has sided with the democrats the majority of the time.
BOOT HIM!
He's a turncoat and the dems should walk away from this guy. Hopefully Connecticut will be smart and not re elect this yahoo. He should be asked to stepdown from this committee because he clearly doesn't have the Obama
administration in his best interest.
This lieberman guy is out of his mind. He doesnt know what he wants.
He must be kicked out of the party. and also from the senate.
Obama and all dems must keep him away.
He was the main cause of Loss for Mc Cain.
we dont need him anymore.
I hope connecticut is watching all the crap he does.
Joe, Joe, Joe:
You remind me of Joe the plumber; You just keep picking losers! You're getting a bit old for this aren't you. I thank GOD every day that you're not from my state. You are not a man that want's to unite. You are nothing more than a political leech and your legacy will reflect as much. Shame on you!
"This is the most depressing and scary day of my life. I can't believe that an unqualified man became president. I really don't know what to say. I hope McCain, as senator, challenges Obama's decisions. He is really wrong. He is wrong for the U.S. He is wrong for the world, and he is definitely wrong for me. He is a blatant racist and sexist. Why people are fine with putting him the office is something I'll never understand."
Well, Mary, you're certainly free to express your opinion. Just as I am when I say it seems that your comment about Obama being a blatant racist seems to be a case of projection.
I know it can't be helped, but it still pains me to see people even after all this time and all the progress we have made that still shut their mind to the outside world and think of everything in black or white.
Using the words of a "wise" Republican:
Fool me once, shame on you....fool me twice, er, um, you won't fool me twice.
Think about it.
GO OBAMA!!
For now, the Democrats should let him keep his Chairmanship to demonstrate a willingness to put aside the 'politics of the past'. Not only would it show they are reaching across the aisle and aren't being vindictive, they still need Lieberman to get to 60 seats and a possible 'filibuster-proof' majority.
So give it some time and see how it goes for a least a few months into 2009 and after Obama's inauguration. If the Dems can use him to their best advantage, great! If not, and he goes to the Republicans, who cares? Chances are he's not going to get reelected again, anyway, after his performance over the past few years.
Hello Joe.
Goodbye Joe.
Don't let the door hit you on the way out Lieberman.
It's one thing to say you're going to vote for McCain. It's entirely another thing to stand up there several times and repeat the questionable Republican rhetoric. And then, when it looks like McCain is going to lose, suddenly shift and start praising Obama.
I have no problem with what he did - if McCain was his friend, then so be it. I do have a problem with him expecting to keep his job as committee chairman after that.
The country will never come together and unify behind Obama the thief, liar and cheat. Dream on, this country is permanently divided and race relations will be worse then ever. This country is no longer recognizable.
Of course he wants to put partisanship behind him. Otherwise his political career is over. The good people of his state elected a Democrat. What they got in return was a slap in the face.
They are all ready talking about getting ride of you Joe probably next week. I see vengeance comining. I am sorry that people can be independent without beign dumped on.
Mary......what is scary is that people like you are allowed to be among those of us that are diverse and want to move forward instead of living in a tunnel and can only see "old white men" as leaders....the GOP has brought this nation to its knees with the help of people like Lieberman......
Liberman Get Away from the Democrats you are a Traitor Help the Republicans build theirselve again
Lieberman is an opportunistic turncoat. He should be hurled out of the Democratic caucus. He should not be let anywhere near the Obama administration. His office should be moved outside of the Senate offices next to the dumpsters. He belongs with the garbage.
Well I sure hope he means . I'm sure he like John McCain will be doing their own soul searching. They cannot be put in the same catagory as the likes of Rush Limbaugh who has always been a purveyor of hate. I can't help wondering if Rush today is yelling at his GOD and saying "let me make myself clear GOD, it was all about race for YOU too."
Let's get real. We want Joe's vote. Be nice to Joe. He lost.
Joe lieberman " The Traitor " after your buddy lost the election. And now tell us time come together. Joe it's time for you switch to the GOP party. Democrat does not need a traitor in the party.
Lieberman should disowned, put out, and relieved from the Senate. Get rid of the guy because he's in it for himself. Didn't get re elected as a Dem for senator, so he went independent. Once he got elected as an independent, he "joined" with the GOP and badmouthed the Dems in full spite. He should be next to be voted out. It will be good riddens. End of story.
JOE THE LOSER !!!!!!!!!!!!!
Your to fickled for us ...your howdy doody time is over move on and out...
I don't think Lieberman belongs in either the Republican or Democratic cauceses, but if the Republicans want him, well, lets put a bow on his head and send him off. Lieberman lost my confidence and trust when he ignored the results of his own party's primary. What he did during the campaign didn't surprise me. He's the kind of man who puts himself first all the way.
THROW THE BUM OUT!!
Joe – go away. The democrats do not need you.
demoBRAT-still foaming at the mouth are you?
Lieberman cannot be trusted. Colbert showed a great piece of tape from 2006 with Lieberman (who was in trouble of losing his Senate seat) thanking the man who came to help him in his election. A man he said he was proud to be a mentor to, a man he was proud to call a colleague and a friend.....Barack Obama.
Lieberman could have said he wanted to support his friend McCain without making a speech at the Republican convention. When he did that, he placed himself in the spotlight. He became a part of that pack of attack dogs. But, I do still respect Lieberman more than I do Guiliani. He should be banished to a desert island.
Pick a party and stick with it. Don't be front runner!!
LIEBERAT, YOU DID NOT SUPPORT SEN OBAMA DURING HIS CAMPAIGN. ALL YOU DID WAS CRITICIZED HIM , YOU NEVER ONCE ACKNOWLDGED HIM. YOU SHOULD BE ASHAME OF YOURSELF., HOWEVER, BECAUSE OF WHO PRESIDENT ELECT OBAMA IS. YOU ARE FORGIVEN.
Demobrat.....The issue isn't Lieberman supporting McCain, the issue is how he flat out told lies about Obama and slammed him at the Republican convention. If he would have just praised McCain the Democrats wouldn't have had an issue.
Pay back time for that traitor
Joe, Democrates don't dispise you for supporting McCain...we dispise you for standing by while the vile comments were spewed from the Republicans during this campaign. You, Rudy and Palin took the Republican convention to a new low and set the tone for an ugly and derisive campaign. That's what we can't forgive you for...the lies the inuendos and the charactor smears you help fostor. You will get no sympathy from most of us...never!
Talk faster weasel Lieberman. Dance faster. "Your" candidate dipped into the darkest corners for pugnacious mud to throw at Obama, and now that he's lost, NOW that you've burned most of your bridges, NOW you say to put partisanship aside?
But the real question is: Is Michelle Obama finally proud to be an American?
"He is really wrong. He is wrong for the U.S. He is wrong for the world, and he is definitely wrong for me. He is a blatant racist and sexist. Why people are fine with putting him the office is something I'll never understand."
Ma'am, with all due respect, based on your post I imagine there are many, many things you'll never understand. Good luck to you.
Time to worry about his own future now I guess..
Lieberman showed his true colors at the Republican national Convention. He has, by all accounts, become a de facto GOP member. For a man who once stood side by side with Al Gore to become what he has become is a shame. That he should be expelled from the Democratic party is a given. Lieberman could have disagreed with Obama and the ticket, but he indeed took his 'sour grapes' too far and over the top. One can only hope that the voters of Connecticut vote Lieberman out of office as quickly as possible.
I am thankful for Obama's victory and proud to have a president that wants to unify the country, by being the president for those who voted for him and those who didn't. Thank you USA!
Say it ain't so JOE!
To the dungeon with you!
I truly believe that Obama will embrace Joe Lieberman. The reasoning is that Obama is looking out for what America needs and those who can put her on the right path. Since Joe Liberman relates well to both Democrats and Republicans, it would be my guess that he will be accepted back into the fold even though there will be some that will not forgive him for a long time.
Based on the comments here...I see you democrats still have no desire to solidify this divided nation. It's this reason that we can never again be a great nation. So in a few years....when there's no President Bush to blame...how will you explain away your failures?
I think the country has spoken and it spoke to LIeberman as well. I think it is now time for us all come together, and get this country moving. Remember, what we support, and an all inclusive YES WE CAN!
lieberman is a benedict arnold !!!!!!!!!!
Ray, our forefathers didn't make a two party system. It's the problem we have in this country- you're either with us or against us. An argument made from one side is often discounted immediately because "oh, it's a liberal/conservative thought, thus bad." We need a real third party in this country to keep everything sane.
Sore Loserman indeed.
I'd rather have Joe the Plummer before Joe the Lieberman.
Say good night Joe!
Even losers want to be on the winning team. If Senator McCain had won, he would still be sing his song; now that Senator Obama won, the tune is changing. Sad shame, but that's the "old" way of politics.
Thought that this should be added here:
"In the end, then, what is called for is nothing more, and nothing less, than what all the world's great religions demand – that we do unto others as we would have them do unto us. Let us be our brother's keeper, Scripture tells us. Let us be our sister's keeper. Let us find that common stake we all have in one another, and let our politics reflect that spirit as well."
"A More Perfect Union"
Remarks of Senator Barack Obama
Constitution Center
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Tuesday 18 March 2008
What a weasel – don't expect to survive re-election in 2012.
Time for him to get kicked off his committee and leave the senate or join the shrinking party of hate.
Lieberman showed his true colors in this election cycle and that color was red. Let the Republicans have him. He can help to further divide that party and allow the Democrats to unite the country and the party without poisonous backstabbing rhetoric.
Lieberman makes me want to throw up. I have watched with increasing incredulity as he has pandered to the Republicans, not just McCain, but Chief Cheerleader Palin. Strip him of his chairmanship; he does not deserve it. He is a running dog of the Republicans. No, this is one guy that should not be taken back in to the fold.
Joe, you left the Democratic party in 2006 when you lost to another Democrat, now you are calling for unification? Make up your mind. You were a bad choice for VP in 2000 and most likely cost Gore the election anyway. You praised Obama at one time, then denied you said it.
It is time for Joe to go along with McCain. Since he cant determine whether he is Democrat or Republican he shouldnt chair any committees. He made his own bed now he can lie in it.
More hate from you people.
Kick him out of the Democratic caucus and shove him right on over across the aisle to his Republican friends,,if they will have him. As far as I am concerned, he can just go home and never darken the political doorstep again. Talk about a wolf in sheep's clothing,,,
What a sad lot of people – wasn't the world to be a better place with an Obama victory? Now you treat a life long democrat with all this hatred. You're not an accepting, tolerant party as you suggest. Pathetic.
The democrats don't need you joe. Caucus with the republicans and john McCain . Wake up democratic senators Leave Joe OUT!!!!!!!
I hate to ask this MARY., If we accept, and it's hard to accept this, that Obama is unqualified to be President, then does Palin qualify to be Vice President? I am sure you'll say yes, simply because, and I am sure about this, YOU ARE A REPUBLICAN and things didn't work out for you all. Advice to you and the Republicans,,,, get your house in order.
It is time to strip "droppy dog" of his chairmanship in the senate. It was sad to see this clown running aroud all over the country with McCain. The next senate election I would be delighted to see this bum voted out of office.
Joe, the extreme leftists in the Democratic Party, including Barack Obama, have no desire to come together and do what's best for this country. Many of them are still living under the delusion that Bush stole the 2000 election which, in fact, the person who tried to steal it was Al Gore.
Leftists have NEVER done what's best for America; why would you think they'd begin now.
This is pathetic! This guy has no backbone, he only says what he thinks will give him personal reward. He read the electorate very wrong, they'll never vote for a black guy he thought, so go against your 'party' and hold unto Mccain! He appeared to be steadfast in his real 'belief' that Obama was not ready, until he began to read the handwriting on the wall,... people don't care what color your skin is, people are looking for real intelligent solutions for the problems we're facing as a nation. Then he tries to reach out in a not to obvious way, just in case his gut feeling is correct and Mccain wins. Now he boldly reaches out to Obama. Enough already, all these greedy politicians who are only interested in furthering their cause, we've had enough of you. We're moving forward and even if you're not on board, we've proven that we can do it if we put our hearts to it. GO USA
Anonymous November 5th, 2008 1:56 pm ET
Since Lieberman already commited political suicide, it is time for Democrats of Connecticut to replace his unsavory remains with a real Democrat.
Didn't they try that already? I think that's why he ran as an Independent...
I could be wrong, but I don't think so...
His pitiful and shameful presence may still be of use to the Democratic party....I say keep him in the caucus but make him the lowest member on the totem pole, strip him of all his chairs and the first time he goes off course...ship him on his way to be a leech to someother party..
I don't criticize Lieberman for supporting McCain. They are old friends and I can see why he would support him. What I criticize him for is supporting his friend by attacking members of his own party rather than just focusing on why McCain himself was a better candidate.
I don't think the Democrats should kick him out of the party. As President-Elect Obama has said, we need to come together as a country. That doesn't mean I think he deserves to be chair of any committees. Let him participate if he wants and potentially earn back his leadership role. You can be inclusive without rewarding Lieberman's behavior.
The Dems need Lieberman more than he needs them. Without the Republicans to blame, they'll be at each others throats in short order. A lot of Jews have reservations about Obama, and dumping Leiberman would reinforce those doubts.