Comments on: Source: Emanuel to be chief of staff

By: shifting paradigm

shifting paradigm — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 18:44:08 +0000

this selection is exactly in line with what president elect obama promised the electorate....a qualified individual who has no problem letting the president elect know how he feels about an issue - whether he agrees or disagrees...emanuel is arguably one of the most effective members of congress over the last four years and will be instrumental in the actual governance needed to execute changes over the next several years....seems obama is going to make selections based on credentials - not patronage like many of the recent chief of staff appointees have been

as for rep. boehner - if he spent less time crafting partisan talking points and more time paying attention, he would know that emanuel is a centrist whom has challenged the lefties on the democratic side of the aisle since his days in the clinton administration....can't wait to see how rep. boehner and others start responding when republicans start filling spots in the obama administration....although i'm sure he and others are prepared to undermine the credibility of such republican colleagues as well....

By: Doris,Memphis,TN

Doris,Memphis,TN — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 18:43:34 +0000

Will somebody please tell Joe Scarbough so that he will stop whinning?

By: Janis

Janis — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 18:43:32 +0000

It is a great pick!

By: Clay

Clay — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 18:42:59 +0000

There has been a large amount of criticism directed at President Bush due to his actions and inactions while in office. That coupled with the widespread losses Republicans have experienced in Federal government all but guarantee that President elect Obama will be criticized throughout his tenure regardless of how well or poorly he may do. However there is no need to start the criticisms already. Chief of Staff is a trusted position that works closely with the president and while I am sure President Obama will likely include Republicans in many higher level positions, his appointments will be based on what the administration feels is needed from each position and the candidates qualifications. So he chose a Democrat for Chief of Staff. Deal with it and realize this constant partisan bickering is exactly what the American people just voted against

By: Alex

Alex — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 18:42:43 +0000

My goodness.....the guy just gets picked for a new job and the Republicans are already crying foul. No wonder the Republicans lost the election...they're a bunch of crybabies on top of being inept and incapable of doing the job.

By: Steve from York

Steve from York — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 18:42:13 +0000

Emmanuel has the skill and temperament for this position, and Obama has the good judgment to know that. Boehner obviously has none of those traits for his position, as evidenced by his performance during the initial legislative "bailout " fiasco.

By: jake

jake — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 18:42:12 +0000

"Smart choice. This is the first step in restoring the prosperity similar to the Clinton era."

Uh, I think we can blame a lot of our lack of prosperity on Clinton.

By: rm

rm — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 18:42:02 +0000

@Paul:

You said you will never accept Obama as your president. What country are you moving to and when??

By: heh

heh — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 18:41:43 +0000

so the first guy he hires is Jewish born of Israeli parents. So much for the muslim terrorist, "he's anti-Israel" argument.

By: Same as it ever was...

Same as it ever was... — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 18:41:21 +0000

Another former Clinton-ite.... just as predicted, the "change" he touted was just a replay of the Clintons regime... hope the USA can survive this bout... we barely got through "W"...

By: Dandelion.

Dandelion. — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 18:41:19 +0000

DuncanM, he is JEWISH, you idiot.

By: hometowndemocrat

hometowndemocrat — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 18:41:18 +0000

Conservatives fight back.......

Not all of us Democrats trashed Bush even though we did not agree with him. Some of us took the high road and gave him the respect that the office of the president deserves. Why don't you give that a try?

Oh, and by the way he is everyones president, not just OURS......that includes you too.

By: Mickie

Mickie — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 18:40:37 +0000

If he were to pick all inexperienced people the republicans would be deriding him for that. Sounds like sour grapes to me, especially since Clinton's presidency was so successful.

By: Greg in MN

Greg in MN — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 18:40:19 +0000

Sounds to me like Boehner is a bit scared of Emanuel. He's no nonsense sort of guy, but in the direction that Obama wants to go.

The GOP (and Dem leaders on the Hill for that matter) better get used to the idea of working in a government that will try to get things done from now on.

Good call Pres-Elect Obama!

By: John in Ohio

John in Ohio — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 18:40:16 +0000

I like Raph Emanuel, but the guy looks like an undertaker.

Not that Karl Rove looked any better, mind you.

By: IowaMom

IowaMom — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 18:39:30 +0000

To Conservatives Fight Back:

Our President veruses Yours? I do not think Bush has done a good job by any means and I did not vote for him, but I still consider him to be my President. How can we come together as a nation when people think this way? If McCain had won, he'd be my President and I would respect that.

By: Republican not buying it..

Republican not buying it.. — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 18:39:16 +0000

John Boehner is a blowhard that is now irrelevant – so I guess he'll go cry in front of congress again? Go away, John, no one is listening any more.

Good choice in my opinion.

By: in Canada

in Canada — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 18:39:10 +0000

Hillary has already publicly stated that she want's to stay in her present position in the Senate and do the work that is so needed there.

By: Georgia Gal

Georgia Gal — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 18:38:30 +0000

You know John Boehner is complaining because he feels this pick maybe too partisan, but in this particular position (maybe more so than any other) Obama needs someone that he can trust implicitly and without question and although I think Obama definetely needs to choose some Republicans for his team this is not the position to do it in (unless there happens to be a Republican that he can trust implicitly and without question and there isn't one that I can absolutely name that would be good for this position). I would've loved for Tom Daschle to be in this position, but I think this is a very good choice.

By: 44th President

44th President — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 18:38:23 +0000

Great pick! I prophesy that President Obama's presidency will have the greatest success in modern history, during our generation and this century. May God bless this administration and may God bless America!

By: RUTH

RUTH — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 18:38:23 +0000

FYI
Harry Truman was a VP from MO. He knew nothing about war or the world but he savrd all your sorry( not even thought of 0 Butts.
I am not a Democrat but only later in life when I grew up did I realize how great he was at his job.
Sarah Palin never had the chance to be VP but who knows if she learned enough and became President someday she wowould be well schooled.
I have no respect for Democrats of today who say honor the office now tha they are in power when they didn't give President Bush a chance
They showe such disrespect for this prsident I don't know whay anyone wants to run.
Maybe now that their guy is tin office I hope he developes a thick skin he'Ll need it.
But we Republicans Independents ect must show Respect Huh.?
Well lets see him earn it
WHICH I DOUBT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By: Brandon

Brandon — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 18:38:20 +0000

What I have noticed so far from all Republicans, especially the radio commentators is that they are in full support of Obama as long as he does what they want. So essentially they think they are so great that Obama should just ignore the fact that over half of the country voted for his ideas and switch to the Republicans ideas, which are the minority. We're just going to have to get used to it, Republicans always dig and dig and dig to try to oust Democrats, the fact that he apparently isn't allowed to pick a Democrat for a position in his administration shows just how quick they want to jump on him.

By: Fix the Broken

Fix the Broken — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 18:37:32 +0000

From what I hear is that Rahm is no nonsense and a guy who says "Get things done or get lost".

That's what we need right now.

I am ok with this choice.

By: Conservatives Fight Back

Conservatives Fight Back — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 18:37:25 +0000

I would not be surprised if CNN censors or omits any Anti obama comments, because God knows they omitted a ton of negative things about him during the campaign. The Wealth Redistribution radio show from 9-6-01 was not EVEN REPORTED. The Anti Coal comments, the Joe Biden Gaffes were downplayed. And the irony is, CNN wasnt even near as bad as MSNBC.
We r watching CNN. Do you even have an ombudsman? We will do our best to drive you out of business because you violate the cardinal rule of journalism; you try to shape the story instead of report it.
On the nice side, I do hope Obama does what he said he'd do, because it is so cockamamie when people find out about it they will feel the same as I do.

By: Cynthia; Bham

Cynthia; Bham — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 18:37:13 +0000

Congrats to Emanuel. I have every confidence that President Elect Obama will select the best people in his Administration.

By: Bonnie in Wilmington NC

Bonnie in Wilmington NC — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 18:36:25 +0000

I am no authority on this Mr. Emanuel, I'm just an older white lady from the south, and I don't really remember much of what all the discussion is about from way back when, so I will defer to my new leader, and believe that if he got this far in such a hard tough time, he must have some idea of how to continue the trek. I was a different person 10 years ago, and I know that time alters everyone, and I do mean everyone. Give Mr. Emmanuel a chance. So, "KEEP ON KEEPING ON" Mr President-elect. If all the rest of us were as smart as some think they are, they would be in your shoes right now instead of where ever they are. Got no time for arm chair quarterbacks and backseat drivers. To all of them, put your time and energy where your mouth is. This country will need help healing and growing, so find something that meets that criteria, and contribute some of yourself to it. Let the man get on with the business of fixing this mess. He's leading, so get out of the way. May your God/Spiritual Being bless America and bless us all.

By: v in ky

v in ky — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 18:35:58 +0000

Diversity is the key.. Keep it up Obama...

By: Tiff of Lithia Springs

Tiff of Lithia Springs — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 18:35:54 +0000

With all that is on Obama's inherited plate, he is going to have to take a disciplined approach to even get a portion done of what he wants. Sometimes you have to blend end before you can break free.

By: Pamela in N. Ga.

Pamela in N. Ga. — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 18:35:40 +0000

EXCELLENT PICK!! I am SOOOOO excited for our country! You rock Rahm! Go Obama!

By: blaising

blaising — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 18:35:33 +0000

Republik party is still tryin' to figure out the controls on the "way back machine". Good luck with that. Oh...and if ya' hadn't noticed, GOP, the reason there's nobody around listenin' to ya' is 'cause America has left the building (as in moved on). Gawd, could you guys get any more irrelevant!!!

By: J. in Houston

J. in Houston — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 18:35:15 +0000

So now the republicans want to complain about this choice too. Look the bottom line is that the Republicans are going to complain about anything and everything until the next presidential election.

I believe they were hoping that Obama would not bring tough minded people with him. The choice for chief of staff is a good one. President Obama is making sure he surrounds himself with people who knows the process and can hold their own during the next term.

By: Molly

Molly — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 18:35:05 +0000

I am glad that Pres.-elect Obama is choosing a staff that will get things done. I am reserving judgement for when he actually gets in office, unlike all of the people who are attacking him before they've even seen results. I voted for Obama because I trust him. I am not going to start doubting him now.

I'm with you, Mr. President(-elect)!

By: Leo

Leo — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 18:34:59 +0000

I was a McCain supporter so I may be a bit bias, but.....

I are you supposed to CHANGE Washington by filling your administration with career politicians and Washington insiders? Next thing you know he will be making John Kerry his Secretary of State.

I am starting to lose HOPE for Obama's promise of CHANGE,

By: Christopher W. Mannoia

Christopher W. Mannoia — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 18:34:50 +0000

Awesome! How about a nice cabinet job for Hillary? She is a real professional, a real soldier, and President Obama would benefit from her help a great deal!

By: Fenarkleman

Fenarkleman — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 18:34:44 +0000

Emmanuel just better let Obama Administration folks go on The Daily Show and The Colbert Report. Oh, and don't let him dance. He's horrible at that.

The Daily Show – the best F*&(king news team on television. WAY better than CNN and no phony holograms, either.

By: Jay

Jay — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 18:34:35 +0000

How can all of the sheep here keep spouting "change" when you have a Clinton crony and one of the longest running senators on his staff? What exactly will he change anyways? Will he come up with a new way to run the economy? Will he find a new way of being the Commander in Chief of the military? The president can change little in case you didn't know (and it looks like most of you here don't). Reid and Pelosi have the real power and they will bring the change you are asking for, though it will most likely not be the change you want. Higher energy costs, the "fairness doctrine" and gun rights going away is what we can expect over the next few years.

By: Angie

Angie — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 18:34:30 +0000

I guess the republicans have learned nothing from the whipping President-elect Obama put on them Nov 4th. They just can't be nice. I thing MOST of them have acid tongues. Too bad. What they should be doing is sitting back and taking notes on how to run a campaign and win a election.

GO PRESIDENT OBAMA.
OUR PRAYERS ARE WITH YOU.

By: Rorschach

Rorschach — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 18:34:15 +0000

What are you saying, Boehner? "Be reasonable – do it my way?"

We've already had eight years of that. Thanks, but no thanks.

Time for YOUR party to come to the center.

By: claude.buissereth

claude.buissereth — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 18:34:06 +0000

Reflecting on the day after the presidential election,2008.
This morning, I tried very hard to put myself in the shoes of a young African slave, and woundered how would it be possible to dream a day, when a son of one of us, slaves, be the commander of chief.
what a remarkable day is Nov, 5th, 2008!!!!
Congratulation American!

By: CL

CL — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 18:34:05 +0000

The mouth on some of you people. Get over it. Get a life!

By: Tylenol 666

Tylenol 666 — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 18:33:26 +0000

The Critisism is so errelevant!

REEEMIX

GOBAMA

By: Enough

Enough — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 18:33:22 +0000

Rahm Emmanuel is a smart committed no-nonsense public servant. He has no hidden agendas.
John Boehner needs to chill – if the electorate had wanted same old business as usual in DC, we would have picked John McCain.

Chill already!

By: Valarie in Ohio

Valarie in Ohio — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 18:32:56 +0000

I am so Godly proud of America and her citizens for doing what we all know was the right thing to do. It fills my heart with pride. Just as America has done the right thing and made the correct choice, President Obama will not let us down. He has used exceptional judgement over the past two years and he will continue to do so over the next 8 years. I am excited to see him surround himself with the most talented, qualified, dedicated, and loyal men and women of integrity. Go President Obama, I am with you every step of the way

By: FreeNLovIt

FreeNLovIt — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 18:32:49 +0000

Sure I have feelings and sympathy toward humans, but the Bible gives us all rules. WE are all govern by rules to make us complete.

Even the UNiverse is governed by laws....

By: MEandYOU

MEandYOU — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 18:32:47 +0000

FIRST: Great choice! He is tough and sensable.

SECOND: Didn't the Republicans learn ANYTHING from tuesday.....We want you to WORK TOGETHER, stop the absurdity and WORK TOGETHER!!!! THAT'S WHY YOU GOT KICKED OUT.

By: Conservatives Fight Back

Conservatives Fight Back — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 18:32:32 +0000

An open Letter to Obamamaniacs
Hey, I dont hate Obama, in fact, I feel pretty good about him.
BUT Be forewarned, we are going to give your president the same respect u gave ours. We will stifle, slander, undercut and disrespect him because we LEARNED FROM DEMOCRATS that it works. I have never seen a man so villified and pilloried as GW Bush. There wasnt even any debate on it. And it started from Day 1. We might not have the Media on our side as u did, but watch out Conservative r usually dignified but that has ended. EVEN IF IT HURTS our country, we will do it to show you how debilitating you have been to our country for the last 8 years. The Politics of divisiveness will continue., Now it is our turn. And it is to show u how bad it is. U reap what u sow. Get ready,.

By: Helen

Helen — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 18:32:31 +0000

Obama is NOT picking "Yes" men like his predecessor.

Change really is coming to Washington!

By: Beverly - Atlanta

Beverly - Atlanta — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 18:32:25 +0000

it's great to see President-elect Obama at work. WHAT A WONDERFUL WORLD.

By: jn

jn — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 18:32:22 +0000

Bob,
Please shut up and go away...If you can't make an honest statement or for that matter a FACT...then get off this site and move to Canada..I'm sure you can find something to complain about over there. Yoy are extremely rude and all of us would be better off not having to listen or read your BS...Goodbye!

Congrats Obama on your 2nd great pick!! Great choice for a CHANGE!

By: ted

ted — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 18:32:12 +0000

Swell, his 1st choice is another Daley stooge who used city workers (paid overtime with taxpayer money) to win his congressional seat, who made 18 million dollars in only 2 years of influence peddling on Wall St. after leaving the Clinton administration. Bipartisanship? He's known as the pit-bull of the Dem. caucus and is widely disliked -even by people in his own party. Great choice Obama! I can't wait to see your cabinet picks.