(CNN) - Prominent liberal groups and gay rights proponents criticized President-elect Barack Obama Wednesday for choosing evangelical pastor Rick Warren to deliver the invocation at the presidential inauguration next month.
Warren, one of the most powerful religious leaders in the nation, has championed issues such as calling for the reduction of global poverty, human rights abuses, and the AIDS epidemic.
But the founder of the Saddleback Church in Lake Forest, California, has also adhered to socially conservative stances - including his opposition to gay marriage and abortion rights that puts him at odds with many in the Democratic Party, especially the party's most liberal wing.
"[It's] shrewd politics, but if anyone is under any illusion that Obama is interested in advancing gay equality, they should probably sober up now," Andrew Sullivan wrote on the Atlantic Web site Wednesday.
People for the American Way President Kathryn Kolbert told CNN she is "deeply disappointed" with the choice of Warren, and said the powerful platform at the inauguration should instead have been given to someone who is "consistent mainstream American values.
"There is no substantive difference between Rick Warren and James Dobson," Kolbert said. "The only difference is tone. His tone is moderate, but his ideas are radical."
Dobson, a social conservative leader, is founder and chairman of Focus on the Family.
Linda Douglass, a spokeswoman for Obama, defended the choice of Warren, saying, "This is going to be the most inclusive, open, accessible inauguration in American history."
"The president-elect certainly disagrees with him on [Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender] issues. But it has always been his goal to find common ground with people with whom you may disagree on some issues."
Douglass also noted Obama and Warren agree on several issues including advocating on behalf of the poor and the disadvantaged, and people who suffer from HIV/AIDS.
From CNN Politics
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I am so sick and tired of radical liberals whinning EVERYTIME Obama doesn't cater to their every request. Wake up people, one of the most liberal states, California, decidedly voted not to allow gay mariage. This obviously means that "mainstream America" isn't ready for this, so stop crying...it's getting really annoying, really fast.
I must say I agree – this is a pathetic Choice for the GLBT community that helped elect Obama.
Any Minister that thinks that gay marriage is compared to sieblings marrying, and old men marrying young children is a poor pick for such an important occasion for President Obama.
I'm kind of troubled by this. Somewhat speechless; just don't know what to say about it. I like and voted for Obama, but now I'm totally confused about who he really is.
Do these left wing wackos think that they are mainstream? Warren's view on gay marriage and abortion are mainstream.
Remember that not everyone thinks the same and so chill out and don't turn off support from poeple that see your fight for those rights.
Obama has plenty of supporters that see things different from you and still walk with you. TOLERANCE is needed then all is possible
The bloom is coming off of Obama. Is he really a messenger for change? This is not change but coddling the right wingers. Obama ran on the meme for change, but he voted for the FISA bill, he is appointing Hillary Clinton as SOS, he has appointed a team of Clinton loyalists, even Salazar is more in the hip pocket of special interests than environmentalists. Obama is not going to bring any change in the US of A. He will govern from the center right. He is no better than McCain. I voted for him. What choice did I have.
Ugh. This man (Warren) does not speak to my Christian faith. He is a faith-based bigot. Period.
I am a gay man and a progressive Christian minister. Although I disagree with much of what Warren says on issues such as abortion and gay rights, I think Obama asking him to say the invocation is appropriate.
We do not have to agree with each other on every single point to work together. We should seek common ground where we can find it. Warren is concerned about AIDS, poverty, and human rights. Can’t progressives work with him and others like him on these issues, even while we disagree about other issues?
Inclusion doesn’t mean only including some, it means including all who desire to work together for positive change. While Warren and I disagree about what constitutes positive change for sexual minorities, we can still find common ground on other issues. Imagine what our country and our world would be like if we all spent as much time working with each other in those areas where we agree as we do battling each other in those places where we disagree.
Warren is not a demagogue, nor is he a purveyor of hate. He is a religious leader who calmly and rationally speaks his mind. I for one appreciate his “moderate tone” even when I disagree with his words.
Obama inviting Warren to offer the invocation shows a desire for unity in spite of differences. It is a clear indication that he sees himself not just as a Democratic president, or as a progressive president, but as President of the entire country. As such, he must speak to the entire country. Warren’s selection shows the President-elect reaching out beyond the typical constituencies of the Democratic Party and embracing all people of good will.
It's just one prayer. I don't think he's going to become White House Pastor.
Prominent liberal groups and gay rights proponents criticized President-elect Barack Obama Wednesday for choosing evangelical pastor Rick Warren to deliver the invocation at the presidential inauguration next month."
Okay...so who did they wanted to deliver the invocation, Rev. Wright or Louis Farrakhan?
The Church and The Military go hand in hand with Neo-Fascism, looks like we have a new Bush with a liberal face!
Warren is a ego maniac that loves to hear himself spew words of division. He preaches to people who can't think for themselves...he tells them what to think and wonders why people with intelligence don't listen to his rantings as well.
I agree, it's a bad choice to mix these religious freaks with politics. Religion has NO place in politics. I'm not going to get my panties in a bunch about it, but I think I would have preferred Bush to give the speech instead of Warren.
A Crying SHAME. Is there something we can do to STOP IT??!!
Rick Warren is a piece of dung.
But the larger issue is, why in the hell does the inauguration feature an invocation?
Who cares about any of this. I don't have a problem with Warren being there...I have a problem with freaking Obama being there...
Rick Warren obviously paid either during campaign or during transition period. or Maybe offerred to help during transition period. Obama team will not give anyone access without money. This is all business. Rick Warren will loose lot of his followers without executive access.
So What?
Warren was the best selection Obama has made in his transition. Liberals and gays need to get over themselves and realize that the world does not revolve around them.
As a gay male, I love the selection! Seriously. So this man does not believe that homosexuals should marry, Many people do! It's a view that many people hold. This thing where anyone who disagrees with any stance shouldnt' have anything to do with Barack Obama is just as closed minded as who these groups condem.
"Warren also sparked outrage among supporters of abortion rights for criticizing those who have said abortion would be 'safe and rare.'"
Holocaust: 6-11 million dead:
Verdict: horrible tragedy, inhuman descecration of life and all we hold dear as decent people
The Take Away Message: Decent people must stand up for those who cannot stand up for themselves.
Abortion: 50 million dead
Verdict: "it's a right and a choice."
The Take-away Message: if you kill on a large enough scale, it merely becomes a statistic.
Obama has been elected president of UNITED STATES OF AMERICA.
Not the Left State or the Right State, or the Religious conservative state.
He serves ALL of the people. Some of us may not like Warren, but some people do. Are they to be denied a voice because they are different from those who disagree with Warren? Isn't that the very thing we hated about Bush? Isn't this one of the reasons we elected Obama? People better start getting used to to a leader who believes in an equal representation of ALL beliefs. We are so used to being divided by the current administration we have forgotten that we will never all be in favor of the same things but we don't have to be ignored because we have beliefs that may differ from our neighbor. We are ALL Americans.
I love those quotes from the lady – ""consistent mainstream American values" uhhh Gay Marriage is a Mainstream American Value??? Hmmm false.
"his ideas are radical." – Yes protecting Marriage between a man and woman... very radical...
Lady you are on the Radical side, there is no American Value or any value in Gay marriage.
Perhaps you would have been more comfortably with Rosie O'Donnel giving the Prayer... after all she is Mainstream and not Radical at all.
Just another Wolf trying to call themselves a Sheep. I hope a majority of Americans aren't this stupid. LGBT Movement trying to call themselves Mainstream American Values and that anything otherwise is Radical.
I hope Mr. Warren freely expresses and prays against those so called Mainstream American Values.
Wow. I am more and more surprised by the President-elect every day.
I'm pretty disgusted by this choice and won't be watching as a result.
More change we can believe in?
HAH!
Disappointing
His pick of Warren turns my stomach. It is a slap in the face.
Rick Warren is a good choice. I voted for Obama and I am glad about this.
The political left and right need to get a life. Where was the outrage when Obama went to the Saddleback forum, please feign your outrage for someone else. Obama does not cower to anyone so get use to.
Gay and feminists calling Warren a radical? The pot calling the kettle "black."
PRESIDENT-elect OBAMA TOLD ALL OF US FROM DAY ONE
THAT HE WILL BE THE PRESIDENT OF ALL THE PEOPLE.
IT IS WHAT THIS NATION NEEDS. WE HAVE BEEN HURT
BY THOSE LEADERS WHO PROMOTE ONLY A LIBERAL
AGENDA, LIKE MINE & BY CONSERVATIVES WHO ONLY
PROMOTE THE AGENDA OF THE WEALTHY. ALL HAVE HURT
THIS NATION & ALL OF US. WE, MEANS WE. IT HAS TO BE WE,
IF WE ARE TO REALIZE OUR POTENTIAL AS A NATION & AS A
PEOPLE. WE MUST ACCEPT THE DIFFERENCE IN EACH OTHER
AND CHERISH IT FOR IT IS TRULY OUR GREATEST STRENGTH.
* LETS FOLLOW THE HEART OF A MAN THAT HAS ROOM IN HIS
FOR ALL OF US & MAKE ROOM IN OUR HEARTS FOR EACH OTHER.
Obama is throwing him out there so he can make an arse of himself. May Warren burn in is own self delusional hell he has created.
What a horrible decision. There is no place fo religion in politics and a decision like this only legitimizes short-sighted, evangelical whack-jobs (and their archaic philosophies). Get your imaginary God out of my freedoms and rights!
You know I am a religious person, but when ppl use religion to make themselves popular and brainwash ppl in the media is just WRONG.
He comes off as pompus and arrgogant. He is not genuine at all.
he also contradicts how he believes religion and politics dont go hand in hand. If thats the case, he shouldnt give opinions on many of the issues we face today. He is hypocritical and religious leaders need that have so much lime light on them should not get involved like this.
Rick Warren has fecal boli inside his cranium.
Wait.... the definition of marriage has been changed over and over and over since the beginning of mankind. What is this guy talking about?
This was a POOR choice on Obama's part.
Rick Warren too conservative to appear the the inauguration of Barack Obama. As is noted he often compares abortion to the holocaust. Warren is a theocrat like the rest of the religous right. Barack Obama should choose someone to give the prayer at the inauguration who is a liberal progressive minister.
By selecting Rick Warren, Obama has proven that he is more aware of "mainstream American values" than Ms. Kolbert, People for the American Way, who challenged his choice based on that criteria. Californians and the rest of America have consistently revealed their disagreement with the liberal gay agenda. It appears that the People for the American Way do not want to face what the American way is.
Hey, Warren...Umm, isn't gluttony a sin? Cut down on the caloric-intake, man.
When are we ever gonna learn in America that we can disagree without being disagreeable. This man has championed a lot of causes including AIDS and poverty, and because he opposes gay marriage he's a bad person? I'm not really understanding the logic. I have gay family members and friends, although we disagree on certain issues. The fact is that I still love and respect them but that doesn't mean that I will agree with everything they say or do and vice versa. With this being the great country that it is nobody is going to agree on everything, but I'm sure there is some common ground in everything.
Wow, I am surprised that so many Obama followers who agreed that we all need to come together as one country are outraged over this.
Ha ha ha the true obama is coming out now.....and this is just the beginning.....hope to the devil he disappoints all the good old boy butt kissers who wrote those blogs against Hillary in support of him.
Do not worry Joseph from Los Angeles,,,,
Your not really confused about who Obama really is, your just starting to see what 46% of America saw Nov 4th.
That Kool Aid you drank all last fall, up until Nov 4th,,, is now giving you major indigestion....
I may not agree with everything Warren says, but I like the fact that Obama is open to hearing from all Americans. Liberals, isn't that what we love about him? That he's willing to have a place at the table for everyone's opinion?
It frustrates me that some of my fellow dems are constantly calling for us to build bridges and more understanding but when people actually take steps to reach out to people with different viewpoints, they go utterly insane.
JP – The difference between the Holocaust an abortion, is that Holocaust victims had actually been born (you know, as in viable from the womb).
Why do you care if some welfare mother has an abortion, anyway? She's doing the taxpayers a favor.
I appreciate the tolerance in the comment by Barrett Coleman here.
While I did not vote for Obama, I admire his courage in picking someone different from himself that represents a portion of the population that is highly concerned about Obama. I see it as a very kind gesture.
We'll see what really happens where it matters now – in actual policies.
So you people are surprised to find that Obama is just another politician with his eye on his next re-election? If so, you are in for a long and disappointing four years.
I love those quotes from the supposed American Way lady – ""consistent mainstream American values" uhhh Gay Marriage is a Mainstream American Value??? Hmmm false.
"his ideas are radical." – Yes protecting Marriage between a man and woman... very radical...
Lady you are on the Radical side, there is no American Value or any value in Gay marriage.
Perhaps you would have been more comfortably with Rosie O'Donnel giving the Prayer... after all she is Mainstream and not Radical at all.
Just another Wolf trying to call themselves a Sheep. I hope a majority of Americans aren't this stupid. LGBT Movement trying to call themselves Mainstream American Values and that anything otherwise is Radical.
I hope Mr. Warren freely expresses and prays against those so called Mainstream American Values.
I have to say that ANY Minister, Elder, Pastor or any other member of the clergy SHOULD be against both same sex marriage and abortion. I applaud and commend the choice of someone that stands for righteousness in the face of adversity and before the connection is attempted to be made I DO NOT admonish the ill treatment of any people no matter what their preferences are.
Absolutely disgusting. I was a huge proponent of Obama, couldn't wait to cast my ballot for him... Maybe I should a voted for Nader instead...
I too voted for Obama as being the best of a bad bunch of poor choices and I am dissapointed.
In fact, I have been disappointed with many of his choices so far and very much so with his evasiveness regarding Blagojevich.
He seems to be turning out to be just another politician doing whatever he finds expedient.
I don't think I know who he really is or what he stands for.
God help us.
PE Obama has a committement to unity so I'm puzzled by this choice, too.
I will also give the PE the benefit of the doubt. It's not a cabinet position - Warren's just speaking during the inauguration.
It's exhausting to get hysterical about every bit of news about Obama. He has an incredible job ahead of them. I think we need to focus on the important issues - or more likely, clean up our own act and see what we can do in our own lives, our own town, our own jobs to make life better.
Barack, I'm really disappointed in this. As a supporter and contributor to your campaign, why do you select such ideologues?
This guy is a joke.
For years, Billy Graham gave the invocation, and as far as I know, there was never any major opposition, despite the fact that his views are almost certainly similar, if not identical, to those of Rev. Warren, regarding abortion and gay marriage. Rick Warren has a right to his views, which I seriously doubt will be expressed publicly at the inauguration. Everybody take a deep breath and chill. Rick Warren is not Hitler.
What a revelation!
I am a liberal and I am definitely disappointed in the President-Elect's decision. He may think what he's doing is pleasing everyone, but he is disappointing many who voted for him (around 36 million people). Just because someone looks like a friendly teddy bear doesn't mean they are one. Rick Warren is a religious fanatic and should not be any part of a movement towards a more secular society. Agreeing with Warren is like agreeing that all in the LBGT community are going to hell and burning forever-not very cool at all.
I already regret my vote....
I echo the words of Joseph from LA. This is a disappointing move on Obama's part. For a man who seemed middle -of-the-road generally, The choice of a falwell type toad is shocking. Control, Obama! You're slipping up.
Kathryn Kolbert when interviewed by CNN said "People for the American Way President Kathryn Kolbert told CNN she is "deeply disappointed" with the choice of Warren, and said the powerful platform at the inauguration should instead have been given to someone who is "consistent mainstream American values"
Sorry Miss Kolbert but 'mainstream American values' have a consistent overwhelming majority poll after poll saying no to gays and less than 2% support gay marriage!
I would rather have Warren in the pulpit than radical, hate filled Rev Wright!
At least it's not rev wright
Religion has no place in government. The is no reason for this nutcase or any other to be stumping!
Why is there a need for an invocation? The USA is a secular nation; read the Article 6, Section 3 (and the 1st Amendment) of the US Constitution for more info.
I am liberal democrat. But, I love the selection of Pastor Warren. No I don't agree with a lot of his positions. But, that is the beauty of it, he is a man of God like myself. So what if our view point our different, we do live in a country in which you can have your own view point, right? It's great to see the President Elect be open to everyone, not just people that agree with him!
Any way you cut this, it is a disgusting choice for Obama to make.
Gay rights is not an "opinion" based issue. Would anyone take issue if Obama chose a professed racist? What about an anti-semite? How about a religious leader who professes male or female dominance in society?
Even if these views represent people in our society, it does NOT make them right. Nor does it mean they should be given attention by the President of the United States. By doing this, Obama is making it clear that he believes gays do not deserve the right to marry.
I wonder what his stance would have been 50 years ago? Do you think Obama believes mixed-races should be allowed to marry? It was unheard of until very recently in human history. But that didn't make it right, or just.
Obama should rethink this choice. And for the record I am a straight male. I believe in equality.
MK : very well said,Obama is the president of all americans not the left
or the right.
Mark: you are just a stupid racist person,if you do not agree with the majority of the americans who vote for Obama,then move some where else,this is a free country,nobody is holding you back,let me give you a hint where you can move to,how about Alaska,it next to russia,if you still not happy all you have to do is swim to russia from Alaska
Obama is going to lead our country as a centrist. The liberals need to realize that their stand on the positions are not held by the majority of Americans.
Please, folks, don't get hyper in your diaper. Do you expect Jeremiah Wright? It's time to gather the country together, and cut Obama slack for reaching out to all on his Inauguration Day.
Hey Adam, MikeH, and Daniel – your idiots. Go upstairs and do some chores for mommy and cool down.
"consistent mainstream American values?"....last time I checked the polls most mainstream Americans are still conservatives...get over it, gay rights have come a long way but it hasn't gotten that far.....acting like its a big deal just fuels the hatred, just show people your not crying out to be treated different and people will begin to care about something more important or relevant.....
Kathryn Kolbert said that Warren's ideas were "radical", and I was surprised that the group she represents is "People for the American Way". I actually had to reread the paragraph because I thought she was against gay rights. I totally respect my gay friend's choice of lifestyle, and it isn't even a conversation anymore. BUT, being GAY is the radical idea here. Secondly, it misrepresents the "American Way", which I have always took to mean that we are respectful and understanding and tolerant of other's choices, not that we're all gay. I'm still waiting for an answer from my gay friends about what is natural about being gay, anyway, because I tried it and it was almost as boring as showering with a mirror. Lastly, it's Barack's invocation, so he can pick who he wants. Let me tell you, there is nothing wrong with being gay, or NOT being gay. For pete's sake, people, get a grip.
Mistake #2...... the first error was handing the grasping Hillary a cabinet post.
He should have picked the good reverend Wright.
If Lauren had a cranium she would have fecal boli in it too.
Some of you Republicans really have wishful thinking here. I wonder if you will be saying the same thing after he legalizes gays in the miliatary and appoints liberal judges to the supreme court.
I think this is great! I am not a fan of his, but enough of the partisanship in this country!! Liberals want the anti Bush, but all that will accomplish is dividing the country even more. Inclusive is the way to go, and it appears Obama is trying to make that happen.
I'm a little confused , so what am I supposed to be outraged about? He is only going to deliver the invocation. I don't think what he say's will change my views about issues such as Gay marriage. I believe people should make their own choices and deal with our Maker when judgement day comes. We must all answer to and be judge by God and he is the ONLY one who will matter not Warren. As far as Obama choosing him to do the invocation... well I am not surprised because Obama may not agree with Warren's views but Obam believes that people should come together even if they don't share the same views or opinions about things. He said in his campaign " We may not always agree with what he does " in this case I don't think this will hurt anyone. Some people will use this to criticize Obama and others like myself will say "variety is the spice of life" and move on.
I am a liberal democrat but this makes me sick. Just let the guy pick whoever he wants to do his inauguration.. jeez folks.. DO WE REALLY HAVE TO GET UPSET ABOUT EVERY LITTLE THING?
If you are one that is upset ask yourself?? What have you done for your country in this past week besides jump on a computer and move your fingers?? This is a time for putting aside our differences and helping build an America we can all believe in.
Even if we don't agree with the other sides ideas.. we don't have to demonize each other. I don't care if Obama wants to meet with Osama Bin Laden himself.. let the man run the country as President.. and if we want to help change it.. lets find ways to do it ourselves.. but we don't change crap from a computer keyboard and we don't change anything by finding reasons to hate people or try to push demands that our leader doesn't do "whatever" with these so called people we don't agree with.
I'm sick of this.. dems and repubs... lets stop the petty arguments and make a more meaningful contribution.. for starters.. take out your trash!!
Is sooooooo complicated to please everybody!!!!!
Please, the whiners won't shut up. I voted Obama but frankly I'm more worried about the disillusioned left realizing he's not going to be President Kucinich and not able to deal with reality.
Hey Lauren,
You should be happy since your "46%" mostly consists of homophobes. It's cute that because he picked Warren you are now holier than thou when your 46% voted for a candidate who does not believe gays should be married. So cute!
It's just an invocation. Does even the person who gives the opening prayer have to represent a liberal, anti abortion, pro gay, political viewpoint? Gays not feeling "welcome at the table" because someone who actually shares Obama's view of opposing gay marriage is doing the opening prayer? Who, please, is the closed minded, intolerant bigot here? It's time everyone get accustomed to sitting at the table next to someone who may not share your politics. Next thing we'll be hearing is the crying when we find out that Obama's limo driver is in favor of drilling in Alaska. Oh my, won't that cause a stir.
Obama is being true to his word by including all corners of this country. I disagree with his choice, but he did say he would govern for ALL America, not just white, black, dem, repub, left or right.
This is what the country voted for, in case you forgot. So the public is 70% agreeable with his cabinet choices so far according to the polls. Seems to me it's better to have some controversy over an invocation than every day for next 4 (8?) years in cabinet meetings.
So he's simply saying a bit of a speech during the inauguration and a misleading headline with tons of illogical comments does not change that fact; he's not even appointed a position in the new administration.
Warren is a great man who despite some of his ideas that some of you do not agree with is an excellent public speaker who really got emotion into me and my family when we heard him speak at the convention.
President-Elect Mr. Obama is also FULFILLING his promise to look at all sides, and ensuring that the republicans are not stepped on either. He is being a unifying leader. That's change.
I meant to say 65.5 million that voted for him
mk said it very well.... Obama promised to be a leader to the UNITED States of America. We have to learn to work together. I disagree with Rick Warren on many issues but that is all the more reason to hear him out and have dialogue.
Inclusion breeds unity - Exclusion breeds resentment.
Give it a chance!
@Barrett, @mk,
Amen, and well said.
This is what inclusiveness looks like people - I realize many may not recognize it, but this is exactly what Obama campaigned on. You don't have to like all of what is said - but you should recognize that a person has the right to say things that you don't like, and it doesn't make that person evil or stupid. Just different.
I think this is really strange and I hope he has a good reason for picking a divisive character such as this for such a historic occasion.
People, people, people–
When Barack Obama said "a new kind of politics" and "working across the aisle", he meant it on a more grandiose scale than simply politics. One of the reasons I admire the President-Elect is because he's doing things like this: offering a platform for ALL ideas, ALL viewpoints, and a place for ALL suggestions at the table with an equal opportunity. That's what America is about, not trying to silence the viewpoints that don't hold strength in power.
The fact he has chosen Pastor Rick Warren has nothing to do with the beliefs Obama has. Ideas such as "if anyone is under any illusion that Obama is interested in advancing gay equality, they should probably sober up now" do not hold any water. This implies that Obama chose Pastor Warren because he represents EVERYTHING Obama believes. This is the problem with the old politics, and the way people percieve Obama's moves such as this as a direct reflection on Obama's beliefs is not only unpractical, it's unfair. Anyone who says something like that, or is "upset" or "offended" at a decision such as this doesn't really get what the greater mission of Barack Obama is. It's about loving your neighbor, offering different viewpoints to the discussion and doing away with divisiveness. I do not take any offense at his choice, and I also do not agree with Warren's stances on gay rights or abortion.
Excellent choice.
People who thought Obama was only going to appoint and cater to ultra liberals weren't paying attention in the first place and are naive. I am an ultra liberal, supported (and still support) Obama, and believe in gay rights. But he can and should work with people of diverse ideologies (as he said he would do all along). That's a unifying approach – we can and should work with those with whom we disagree. It's the only way to progress as a nation. If you're off the Obama train because of this, you're myopic and naive.
Why, in the first place, do we have anyone at all, at a presidential inauguration, blathering on with a lot of superstitious religious drivel?
So what? He could have chosen Rev Wright!
First of all I don't think there should be an invocation at the inauguration. Second, I never thought I would find fault with Obama, but I don't agree with this choice at all. I'm really sick of the white house shoving religion down my throat.
I think it's okay for the man to deliver an invocation to the Inauguration. You all do know what that is correct? An invocation? If you don't, I sugest you look it up. Warren isn't his spiritual advisor. The Obama's aren't going to his church. If you got over Wright you'll get over this too.
I guess that "change" doesn't apply to everyone.
It's interesting that both liberals and conservatives are "outraged" by the choice of Warren.
Millions of people elected Obama because he gave us hope - we trusted his vision and his plan. I, for one, didn't expect to agree with everything he did. But I do trust his intelligence, integrity, and his committment to making a difference in my life and the life of every person in this country and that's what's important to me.
I don't understand all of you fools who are complaining about Obama's Choice of Warren just because you disagree with him. Haven't you ever heard of "Keep your friends close, keep your enemies closer" The fact of the matter is that the problems Bush left us in are so great that there's no way Obama will be able to fix any of this on his own. WAKE UP AMERICA; this isn't about liberal or moderate, it's about the fact the people are losing their jobs every day and we need someone that can get ALL OF US to the table to fix the issues. Get over yourself and Let Obama take office before you scrutinize his every move.
This is a good choice. It has GOP members defending Obama. I don't want to run the GOP into the ground, I just want to bring the nation back to where it was before W go his oil soaked hands on it. I am with Obama, think of this as an olive branch to the right. And on the left, I think this is Obama's way of saying everyone, even those who are gainst gay marrage and abortion, has a place at the table. You want him to talk to our enemys but not to this guy? Lets work together and stop being so reactionary. What will you do if he does something pro gay? Then you are back to being his friend?
America, please do not be outraged by anything that comes from the Obama presidency, you voted him in!
Not surprised !! Obama is trying to show America that he is not as far to the Left as Fox News would have you to believe. I already knew that he is not a " Socialist " . But I wish that he were. Anyway .... he's still wayyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyy better than Hillary ( or any Republican ) !!!
GET OVER IT !!!!!!
How about boycotting the inauguration. That would save the U.S. some money.
what...ever...
I think religion has no place in politics, and personally have a bad emotional reaction to this this.
However...
If I wanted to look at this in the most positive way possible, I would say:
Obama has said that in order to have success in restoring the American dream, he needs each individual in this country to help out.
In reaching out to the religious / heartland folks through Warren's presence, he is trying to get EVERYONE on board, including people who may have voted against him or who may fear that his administration will exclude them or disregard their values and beliefs.
This is consistent with his belief that an all-hands-on-deck effort is our only chance of group success. If he's right, and this helps to achieve that, then it's hard for me to condemn it.
Terribly disappointing. He could have chosen a stellar pastor from his own denomination, United Church of Christ... or any of the mainline Protestant denominations... or Catholic or Jewish..... but to choose someone who in no way represents what most of his supporters thought they were voting for is anathema to me.
News Flash: Even though I'm not a big fan of Rick Warren, he DOES represent mainstream American values. The only people who think he doesn't are so far out of the mainstream that they don't even know it exists.
@ Lauren,
Wow - you personally know all 46% of the people that you are claiming to represent with your comments? That's impressive!
Of course, if you don't know them all personally, then you really don't know what that 46% of people were thinking on November 4th, so maybe you shouldn't be making sweeping generalizations on their behalf...
I might not agree with Warren, but I am not uncomfortable with Obama picking him. Obama himself might not agree with all of Warren's positiond, but he might respect him for his help and support of the disadvantaged. Bush and every other president before him have had an invocation, this should be no suprise or a big deal. You cannot agree with a person 100% of the time. This shouldn't be a an issue.
The nut is in charge of the supernatural display in the upcoming ceremonial event.
At least he's not in charge of environmental policy, or healthcare, or the economy.
So hopefully putting a nut in charge of the supernatural display will appease other nuts out there.
He did say he was going to be EVERYBODY'S president, after all.
no one said it was going to be easy to bring this country together folks. the right and the left both pray. let's get over ourselves here and remember the bigger picture. We have an excellent Democratic President coming into office!
I knew that Obama was going to play the center after the primaries and more after the election. But no, everyone said, "No, Obama is different, Obama is the future. Butterflies and rainbows."
Obama is mainstream. Mainstream means you're in line with the majority of the people, which in this case includes people who voted Republican. It's better to alienate small groups on both the left and right, rather than alienate half the country.
The only difference between him and presidents past, is that he has the balls to bring power players in his circle.
Good for you Obama, I see you going to be all inclusive and are not going to make the same dumb mistake as Bush did and only listen to the extreme wing of your party.
There is no question that Obama has provided a boon to the Democratic party as many, many people have believed he is reaching out to them. However, this party's honeymoon won't last long as so many newcomers realize that dissent from the views of the far left core will not be tolerated. Despite the image portrayed by the other side, the GOP offers a far larger tent...yes, there are some far right wingnuts, but they rarely succeed in shouting down moderate common sense voices, like these extreme left NGOs do.
Obama picking Warren is an interesting yet not surprising choice.
Warren is very influential in our world. A quick glance over his credentials shows that.
The people who voted for Obama yet are now complaining of his choice need to keep in mind that in acting that way, they are stooping to a very low level.
People on both sides of the spectrum need to learn to respect and love each other for their differences.
That's right, cut anyone out of the process that you disagree with... What a brilliant mentality. As a gay male I firmly believe that this is of no relevance. I also expect Obama to sit with despots and oppressors so that he can look them in the eye and deal directly with them. The fact that we know Obama will not be swayed by this religious persons personal thinking should be reason enough not to care...
I TOLD Y'ALL YOU SHOULD HAVE VOTED FOR HILLARY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I'm as liberal as they come. Ya'lls need to grow up on the right AND THE LEFT!!!
Barry, please call me as soon as possible. We need to talk.
Thank You.
mk@6:47- Well said.
This IS change I can believe in. Neither good nor new ideas come from people who agree on everything.
Inviting Warren is like inviting a flat-earther to an astrophysics convention. Meh.
OBAMA'S TRUE COLORS ARE COMING OUT, HE WAS NEVER FOR GAY RIGHTS. ASK FARRAKHAN AND J WRIGHT WHO SHAPED HIS VIEWS ALONG WITH CLOSETED EX GAY BLACK MINISTERS AND SINGERS FROM THE SOUTH WHO OBAMA LOOKS UP TO.
IN HINDSIGHT HILLARY LOOKS LIKE A GREAT CHOICE NOW ISN'T IT ANDY COOPER? TOO LATE NOW YA'LL ALREADY PUT THE FORK IN HER WAY BACK THEN DIDN'T YA SO CALLED LIBERAL PRESS AND CHOSE HIS ALMIGHTY OBAMA.
Throughout the campaign, I found Obama's and McCain's stance on gay rights to be rather similar. I don't know why anyone is surprised. And I like Rick Warren. I don't agree with all of his stances on the issues, but these days, Christianity tends to be a pick-and-choose, cafeteria-style religion.
Who cares? What, you were expecting Jeremiah Wright? That would've gone over REAL well...
See....I said all along that Obama was full if it. He's arrogant and his promises are completely EMPTY.
Change? HA! Where.
He disgusts me and I hope he's beaten in 2012, or something gets him outta there as quickly as possible.
I am impressed by this choice.
It's about common ground people. Get a grip. AIDS, poverty, take precedence over acknowledging gay marriage (instead of civil unions) or supporting abortion (abortion being a highly debated issue itself, even among democrats).
Lead on Barack. I'm with you!
This is why I love Obama.... Not a yes man........just pragmatic.
Oh Shut Up Already!!!! Gay/Straight/Black/White Green or Polkadot. STOP being so freakin sensitive. I'm surprised I don't see addiitonal stupid remarks like Obama should have gotten a Black Minister.
I'm a Christian and I am not offended. You people need to check yourself and get a life. Stop being so D@mn hypocritical!!!
At the heart of it what is wrong with the Christian right? That's correctt they are close-minded. Let's not make the same mistake they do. Let's show we can listen to others and respect them even if we don't agree on everything. Obama has made it clear he is a Christian but not a close-minded one.
Whether you want to admit it or not, eight years of Bush has many people in the mindset of "Either you're with us or you're against us". This was a particularly distasteful characteristic of Bush's presidency. I'm glad to see Obama taking a much broader viewpoint that allows individuals who do not necessarily agree with him to have their voice. I don't agree with Warren on all points, but I think his heart is basically in the right place. Mostly, I'm happy to see a glimmer of enlightenment in the administration-to-be after eight years of Bush's dark ages.
So let me get this straight, if Obama doesn't cow-tow to gays, he's a bad President? I get it now.
So I guess everyone who objects to kids watching gay pride parades with half nake adults with peacock features sticking in their rear ends down main street with kids watching are evil Americans right?
Good grief, people. It's just the invocation. He hasn't been asked to replace Biden as VP or anything.
To J.P.:
Before you can make a claim about "50 million dead," you have to define "alive" in some biologically consistent way and without reference to your religious superstitions.
We should all chill. No body is God. Remember the story of the prostitute by the river.God said, "who among us that's without sin should throw the first stone".Did anybody had the gaut to cast the first stone. We all have our individual opinions and that;s what makes the world unique. If we all think alike, the world will be boring. Please leave Obama alone.If you do not like his choices, 2012 will be your chance to run for President and goodluck!
I am disappointed in this choice, but after all the grief Obama suffered because of his past minister, I can understand him going for a "safe" choice. As people have said, he represents our entire country, so I can't expect him to play to my expectations all of the time.
People, please, can't you see what is going on. Obama chose Rev. Warren because he was so against Obama being president. This will be a flip-flop on Rev. Warren's side. His followers will be upset with him because Obama was everything that he was against. Now, Obama will be getting the last laugh!!
And, to you "Lauren" the Obama Kool-Aid I and others have been drinking is even better and sweeter than before. My cup runneth over–sweetheart!!!!
So what people get over it!
I thought this past November 4th showed an indication that the country was trying to be finished with the divisiveness in politics. That the election of Barack Obama reflected a desire of the American people to look beyond the things on which we disagree, and come together on those things on which we can agree. I definitely do not agree with Rick Warren's views on gay marriage or any number of other issues, just as it is clear that Obama does not. But the great thing about our President-elect is that he doesn't shun and disregard those with whom he disagrees. He doesn't call them parasites on society or any other derogatory thing. He sits at the table with them, listens to them and tries to come together in spite of those differences, on things that matter. I think the rest of us can take a lesson from that. If all those taking issue with this were on the other side, they would appreciate a seat at the table, they wouldn't be condemning it. It's not a huge leap to believe that when it comes to Obama advancing LGBT issues, Rick Warren won't be there. But the fact that Rick Warren has a place at the table doesn't mean that Obama doesn't care about LGBT issues; it shows that he cares about the AIDS, global poverty and other human rights issues, on which he and Warren can agree.
Why do we need to bring religion into this at all? I don't have anything against the guy but it's so stupid to uphold any particular religion in our diverse culture.
"The president-elect certainly disagrees with him on [Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender] issues. But it has always been his goal to find common ground with people with whom you may disagree on some issues."
Fine. Find common ground with him. But don't give him the publicity. Contrary to a previous poster, He is not in the mainstream. Conservative philosophy never has been.
I would rather see President-elect Obama have a group of religious leaders, not one, participate in the invocation for inauguration. This is really where it's important to see community joined together.
President elect Obama, please call me, we need to talk. This is a decision you might need to reconstruct.
Wonderful choice. Rick Warren represents the complexities involved with religion today. I have long been a staunch Democrat but Warren's "Purpose Driven Church" put me in touch with my faith. I think having Warren handle the invocation says that we don't always have to agree on everything but when it comes to our nation we are one.
Blah Blah Blah. It's his party. You don't like it, don't come. Obama owes nobody anything. Gays and lesbians didn't elect him. Liberals didn't elect him. Democrats didn't elect him. We ALL elected him. I like Warren. A lot of people like Warren. If he chose someone else than the Warren supporters would be upset. People need to get over it. It is Barak Obamas inaugaration! He can choose the bible he uses, he can choose the name he uses, he can choose the minister he chooses.
Give the man a break. Obama knows what he is doing. This man does not make a move without thoroughly analyzing everything.
Obama said loud and clear that he would be bringing together BOTH sides of the aisle in his administration.
He is the change...A president who doesn't pander to one side of the political spectrum. It's refreshing, and exactly what I expected.
If you didn't see this coming, maybe you should have been paying attention.
Not everyone will be 100% dem/liberal...And after the past 8 years of having Bush only fill his halls with the utmost conservatives(although, what is the def. of conservative these days?), I am glad that we have a man in office who will listen and allow others to advise him even when they don't see eye to eye on EVERY issue. And quite frankly that's awesome to me.
Come on folks you got to be kidding me. This is a big deal???? Oh no he picked Rick Warren so what. 500,000 lost their jobs in NOV. We're still in 2 wars 10 trillion in debt and this is what we're talking about . The far right will keep saying see, see watch-out for the big black man we told you.... the far left will say wa wa wa that's not what I wanted when I voted for him he needs to do what I think. Grow-up!!!
In November we loved Obama for his inclusiveness. If he only included people who agreed with him on every issue, he would be far more disappointing than this invitation to Warren is. Let's reserve judgment and learn to listen to each other more. It seems to be what Obama is modelling for all of us. I'd call that change we can believe in. Perhaps Americans need to give up a few individual rights – namely the right to be RIGHT (correct)- in order to promote the greater good of all people and their ideas.
I am very impressed by Obama's choice to have Pastor Rick Warren speak. We need to keep morals in the USA our home of the free. Americans began in this cournty, where are constitution was founded under God.
Society is trying to change everything that is good. I am very impressed that Obama is open minded and working diligently to unite people to have open views and to listen to each other in a civil maner.
If we lose God's blessing on our land, we are all doomed. How many have opened a bible, before preaching what they beleive is truth?
God Bless
This is a very disappointing choice. This guy is a charade and an opportunist. Big churches, big bucks, big egos. Haven't we had enough of that? Why have any religious figure up there? What about the poet laureate who could speak to the heart and soul of all Americans? I have plenty of friends who buy their 'credentials' from some online church so they can marry friends and relatives. Why not have one of them? This would have been the perfect time to begin to draw the line between church and state that has been overstepped so often by that phony Christian Bush.
You know I see that OUR religious idiots are getting as bad as those in the middle east. The U.S. has changed the marriage thing before when the outlawed the morons from having many wives. Now why is this not ok yet gays think they are picked on. If gays can marry then morons can have several wives........lastly,,,,ABORTION is the right of each person if you don't want to fine "BUT leave the rest of the people alone. Drinking and driving kills more than abortion – do away with alcohol, guns kill more do away with guns, For God's sake (no pund intented) KEEP YOUR RELIGION TO YOURSELF AND LEAVE THE REST OF AMERICA ALONE...
Using Rick Warren is like him using Bill O'Reilly to hold the Bible for him and Sean Hannity to administer the oath of office.
Warren attempted to make Obama look bad in his presidential debate and deserves no part in this ceremony.
Joel Osteen would have been a much better choice!
I don't think Warren is as bad as James Dobson or that ilk, but it was a poor choice. It's a slap in the face to his gay and lesbian supporters.
There were other, better choices - a progressive pastor like the Rev. Jim Wallace, for instance. He and Obama are also friendly.
I hope they transition team realizes that they blew it, big time.
I appreciate the attempt of bridge building by Obama, but wish he'd chosen someone less controversial. It may overshadow the events of inauguration day.
Whay do all these Bible-clutching preachers look so pudgy and over-fed? This guy remind anyone beside me of the late Scary Falwell?
For all of you "why the **** is there an invocation at the inauguration of the President": you might revisit your American history. Start with George Washington's inauguration and move forward form there. Take a look at our Declaration of Independence while you're at it.
Or just move to Europe.
No personal comments about someone's looks, please, Mr. Perfect. And no name-calling. You don't hear Mr. Obama calling people names or criticizing peoples looks, so how are you any better than he is when you do?
Now, Obama is a leader and a leader is what we have needed. Not a dictator, a leader. Leadership. That is his gift, the ability to bring people of difference together in a common cause. This is what we need today in order to make basic progress on important issues. Let's be polite, have some manners, and look for the things we can agree on.
Interesting choice. As a pro-choice, pro same sex marriage kinda woman, he's far from my favorite guy, but I would concur with the reader that commented that we should learn to agree to disagree and embrace that where we find commonality. What bothers me more is that there has to be a religious tone to the invocation in the first place, and I personally would prefer, if that is how it must be, that it be delivered by a group representing the diverse religions that are practiced throughout the US.
I'm gay and have no problem with the choice...Warren and Barack agree on many other issues.
If folks didn't pay attention to Barack in the campaign that's their fault...Barack is not from the far left nor the right...he is a man in the center and willing to listen to all points of view.
I for one like how he has handled his transistion to include a wide diversity of folks and this is carrying over into his inauguration!!
Please take alook at yourselves before throwing stones and castigating others. Who among you is perfect?
why do any of these characters get a voice at the inauguration for the highest political office in the land, it makes a mockery of the separation of church and state which is a joke in the US anyway.
This is a very shrewd political move .........trust Obama ....he knows what he's doing !!!!
I lied...being gay wasn't boring or unnatural. I just wanted to clarify that because my 17 year old called me on it.
Great choice by Obama.
Not afraid to embrace Warrnen who is clearly hated by the extreme wing of his own "base."
Those who called him an ultra liberal robot can now see that he has always been his own man.
Those who expected him to be an ultra liberal robot can now see that they should have taken him seriously when he said he would represent all of America, not merely one ideological branch.
Interesting how responders are accusing Obama of deception about his positions.
However, he has always clearly stated his belief that marriage was between a man and woman, but that civil unions should be available for same sex partners who sought certain rights(identical to positions held by Clintons, Bush, and McCain, by the way). I've personally heard him say it on every single debate where he was asked a question about gay marriage.
So why the shock and suprise over the choice of Rick Warren!?
I think Warren's mostly a Rush Limbaugh type. Certainly he's a wolf in sheep's clothing. I'd advise Obama to steer clear of him. Beware! It'll like be another Rev. Wright-just slicker spoken. President Obama will have lots of explaining to do if the invitation to Warren holds. Why not some good mainline denomination guy? I'm sick of these spinter sect reactionaries.
First off to all you people who are whining about this must not have listened to PE Obama at all during the campaign. I can't count the number of times he said "There is no red state America or blue state America, only the United States of America" I do not agree with Pastor Warren AT ALL on abortion or gay rights but this is just what Obama was talking about. Just because you disagree with someone, is no reason to exclude them from our democracy. That is what the current administration has done for 8 long years and look where we are now. And to all you Clinton supporters (Marge) who are STILL whining STOP IT , it does you no good ,and only reinforces a stereotype about women which will keep them down in the political arena.
It is ONLY an invocation...which will take all of 5 minutes, at best....not a POLICY speech! It is routine. Two days later no one would remember what was said. It's inclusiveness....
Pay attention to Obama's inaugural address....that is the important part of the inauguration....that is the lasting part.
I strongly feel that gay people should be allowed to be legally married if they so choose, but I do not think that Obama's selection of Warren to simply offer an invocation is a statement from Obama on the issue. Obama will be president to all the citizens of the US, including those who oppose gay marriage.
To me it's a non-issue. There's other much more important issues we need to be concerned about other than who offers the prayer at his inauguration.
There's nothing wrong with that. Take a chill pill people
It is unanimous then!
It is unanimous!
Wright would have been better. Warren's a nutjob with a soothing voice.
What's the big deal? Honestly. There are probably some aspects of Warren's personality that Obama likes. It doesn't mean that they agree on EVERYTHING. Everyone needs to grow up.
Hugely disappointed. Certainly there's some kind of political payoff for this, whether it's "keep your enemies closer" or whatever, but hey, out of all the choices that might have been, why do you select someone who mobilizes people against people? Very sad, and wishing we knew what we don't know about this decision.
liberals and progressives are already getting shoved under the bus and we already know it. [the air pressure is low on one tire, by the way...,]
I am curious why we need an invocation in the first place?
And why an evangelical christian?
What about the moslems,hindus, atheists, pagans, buddhists?
Separation of church and state people .
I think everyone has the right to believe in their own set of fairy tales .
Please for the life of me can we not let them intrude into the governance of the state?
Obama has just flushed his credibility down the toilet.
Shaaaame on you Obama for selecting such a controvertial person like Warren, that was a very poor choice Obama. Who are you trying to impress or pleased with that choice?
Warren is as abnoptious as Wright, can't stand the man!
Folks, you ain't seen nothing yet.
Duh...HELLOOO if prop 8 failed in the most liberal state in the union it should tell you people something about where the middle really is
I was, and am sure that if you were honest with yourselves, everyone would realize we are a lot worse off now, than we were 2 yrs ago. What happened 2 yrs ago? The Democrats took control of Congress, that was the start of the downword spiral. Stop blaming W and the Repub's for what the Democrats have caused.
well, the conservative fear mongers were right. those who voted for obama didn't know who he was: a conservative. anyone who hoped for gay equality, marijuana decriminalization, a better education system, you know... all of those things that liberals tend to want. Too bad! You were duped by a conservative!
Again!
This is a poor choice and not the change I was looking for.
Gay marriage as it is call, its more that that, its a human rights under a democratic goverment, wher its founders belivied all people are created equal, since getting into marriege, m-w, m-m, w-w if there is not involvement a third party, which happen when gays get straight marriage, its a right that as humans we demand we don't live with lies and live with respect respecting straight people, so we must have samething back , so we can have a sociaty more tolerant in personal issues.
GET OVER this... the DAY we, as Manority Group, understand we are asking for rights as humans beings, not as different from them, which we allow tehm to exclude us from it, couse we don respect ourselves as Humans n people of this country. THAT day we all as people of this nation will see the sun even shinnier than ever before, that DAY will be close to that UNITY Obama is looking for...
Obama showed a religious conservative bent and indifference to gay issues (though not hostility) during the campaign. Those who were thrilled with the possibility of a black president were oblivious. This isn't a surprise.
I wonder if Obama ever mentioned something about the American people not always agreeing with his choices.........hmmmmmm, gonna have to replay that speach he gave on Nov 4th and see if I find anything on that.
So cute!
VERY GOOD CHOICE OBAMA!!! I am a conservative, did not vote for Obama, and often ponder the direction this country is taking. I will admit, I was scared when he won the election, and still am deeply worried about some of his choices. His Homeland Security Director scares me to death...
But, I will also admit, he vowed to try to reach ALL Americans.. and he is staying in the middle of the road for now.. focusing on the economy, building a good team, and looking to take America in the right direction again.
I also want to add, that Bush, yes, big bad evil Bush, after 9/11 stayed the course, and prevented this country from being attacked again.. heck of a job.. I hope Obama and his team can continue this tradition and do what is neccessary to keep our coutry safe..
Good luck and I can't wait to hear Rick Warren speak.
How come he didn't pick his beloved reverend wrighty??
Yo, liberal whiners! Didn't you vote for the guy because he said he would bring us together? I guess the 'us' you guys thought he meant was only the ultra-left.
I really doesn't matter who does the 'invocation-incantation' before the inauguration. As far as religion is concerned, whoever is chosen, one group or another will be outraged because the person wasn't their 'gender' or their 'race' or from their 'part' of the country or their 'religion' or their 'faith' or concept of 'God'. This is exactly why Sunday is the most segregated day of the week with each group going to their corner to try and convince themselves, they are better than those 'other' people. Just maybe everyone is looking too hard at what they don't agree with, instead of what they have in common. Remember, it's supposed to be about religion...right?
It's Obama's choice so shut up!
Those of you who think religion is "superstitious dribble" need to realize that throughout history from today all the way back to prehistoric times, most men have believed in a god or gods. Like it or not, it is common to human nature. Apparently the need to believe in a higher power is in our genetic make-up. And since humans are still thriving on the planet, I guess it's not exactly a bad trait. In fact, the most famous crimes against humanity are often done by people like Hitler who are against belief in any god, and it's the Christians who do most of the charitable work in this country and are peace-loving. You really need to accept that and stop being offended by it. It ain't goin' away!!
He lied all during the election season and you liberals prayed at his feet, NOW LOOK HOW HE HAS SOLD YOU OUT!!! This is great !!! Have a good cry over at moveon LOL !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I like the comment that states, "ask yourself, what have you done for your country lately?" Warren has done really great things for our country and the world in attacking poverty, human rights, and healthcare. These issues are moral issues regardless of your religion, and this was much of the foundation of Obama's campaign. You people act like he's the spawn of Satan, but he's done way more good than any of you people who don't like him simply because of one personal viewpoint. I don't like his views on homosexuality either but unlike you people I realize that the only person in this world I will ever agree 100% on every issue is me.
. That didn't surprised me. It wouldn't had surprise me if Mr. Obama have asked Rev. Wright for his invocation. He would have got away with it. He is been elected by the people. His choice of Rick Warren for his invocation proves to me that Mr. Obama does'nt care about anyone except that he is the first African-American elected as president. And that's all that this inauguration means.
This country was founded by the people for the people.
Not just some of the people!
One Nation Under GOD
I agree with w.
I am a gay man. I disagree with Rick Warren with every fiber in my being. And I personally can't stand him or his positions. His views disgust me.
And I am proud of Barack Obama. W is right that inclusion means building bridges to everyone – even those we protest against. And the inauguration is the start of unifying the country – not just the Democratic Party of which I am a proud member.
Let's not sink to the low level of the conservative Christian Right and start bashing them. Let them be the bashers – and let's teach them the moral high road by our example. Way to go Obama.
It's all politics and that's the way the game goes. I don't like Obama's choice – but it makes for excellent diplomacy.
Ok Obama you won't get my vote ever again...Your starting out just like Bush....Betraying us....And Shane from NC you can go straight to Hell along with Warren.
What's funny is the statement of Kathryn Kolbert that Warren is outside the mainstream (because he does not support gay marriage). Perhaps she was out of the country (or away from planet earth) during the last election when mainstream voters from California, Arizona and Florida rejected gay marriage.
Who is really.....lol ... He's really an undercover conservative ...the conservatives knew this all along ...Thats why the conservatives DIDN'T vote for him ..it was all a big trick on Liberals ...lol
I could have sworn he said he'd include everybody ... and everybody sometimes means the guy you dont like ....Get over it
Rick Warren is a decent man. I am a liberal Democrat, but his work on Global provery, AIDS and other issue dear to my heart overrides any issues we might disagree on.
Obama is not going to cater to any one group. He never said he would. Unlike Bush, who was bought and paid for by the Republican Party. Obama will be the President for ALL Americans. I can't wait!
PAY BACK .......Rick Warren set President Elect Obama UP......when he invited Senator Mccain and Senator to his church and lied about Senator Mccain was in a Room with no way of veiwing or hearing the Questions asked of Senator Obama.........Maybe he will change some of his Views.. it is called turn the other cheek
Daniel:
"The difference between the Holocaust an abortion, is that Holocaust victims had actually been born (you know, as in viable from the womb)."
I see now. The victims of the Holocaust, while innocent and defenseless, were not quite as innocent and defenseless as the victims of abortion. Thanks for clarifying.
Jeez, you'd think the liberals at some point would just grow up and stop being outraged by everything. You're REALLY making conservatives look like the cool kids on the block.
Obama is living in Disney World. Watch for the sparks to fly between Pelosi and Obama during the first 100 days. Watch for Obama to retreat from his promise to get out of Iraq completely in 16 months. Taxes on the wealthy and corporations ain't gonna happen, ad neither is the great tax cut for middle America. And watch for Obama to accelerate the War in Afghanistan which will be the worst decision of his presidency. Ahghanistan will become Obams's Vietnam. In terms of saving the auto industry – this, too, will not happen correctly as the UAW will call in its markers, and without a UAW concession of gigantic proportions, GM and Chrysler are doomed to fail
This from the pastor who believes/teaches that every human being who has lived on this planet has had a "mission." Even Hitler, who's mission, we must take from Warren's tenets, mission must have been eradicating Jews to the glory of god.
Religion is a crock, and Warren's is just one of the strangest.
Liberals are upset? Why? Just because he's being practical and moving to the center is no reason to get upset. This country has more divergent interests than any civilization in history and President-Elect Obama is just being smart. He's not going to the real power bulge of this country is at the center and he knows it.
Specific to Caw and Barrett -
If this is indeed what inclusive means in America, then why aren't members of the KKK, the neo-Nazi's, or the John Birch Society included in the inaugural? The answer is that its NOT OK to hate blacks, Jews, Catholics, etc. BUT it is still OK to take any pot shot you want at gay people.
What most people don't realize is that, setting aside the hot button issues of marriage or adoption, under federal law, gays can be fired without cause from their jobs, evicted from their apartments, denied loans for mortgages or cars, or barred from visting loved ones in the hospital – simply for being gay. These are all rights protected by either federal or state laws for nearly everyone else, regardless of race, religion, or gender – but not for sexual orientation. We are not looking for "special rights" as many of the posts seem to believe – we simply want EQUAL rights.
I understand that my conservative brothers and sisters of faith may disagree with me regarding issues of morality. I even understand that they may even feel led to vote against gay marraige in their respective states. However, Obama SELECTED a man (Warren) who ACTIVELY CAMPAIGNED to REMOVE the right to marry from the state of California. This is not simply a man of differing opinion – this is a man who actively seeks to dismantle the rights of the very people who got Obama elected.
Obama has some serious repairing to do....and we gay and lesbian Americans are more than happy to sit on our hands until he does.
Change only fools believe in.
Hmmm... sure is a lot of anger in here.
Maybe I should just keep my peaceful comments to myself until the air clears....Got my cigs and sandwich, I will just enjoy the battle....
Oh wait! What is the big deal again?
Why not reverend Wright, Obama's spiritual mentor?
It is nice to see that Obama is willing to include participation by folks who don't pay homage to queers and fruitcakes.
this is one prayer for every american that chooes to listen to it, i believe he is a good choice, Billy Graham isn't able to do it this year, may God Bless him, he always had such good words for all americans.
"A Crying SHAME. Is there something we can do to STOP IT??!!"
"OUTRAGE"
Really...? I mean... really? All this.. over a guy who will say two sentences in front of a crowd.
What else is that you say? Barack just picked a moderate republican for his transportation secretary?? After stating throughout his campaign his pledge to engage a BIPARTISAN movement for change?
NOOOOOOOO...
It would be hard to find a religious leader who satisfied everyone, don't you think? So you go with the guy who you like and when you get inaugurated you all can do just that.
Should have went the Wright way.
Those who live by the sword will die by the sword, so to speak.
I think he made a good choice. You can't please everyone if he tried he wouldn't be able to make a choice.
AndThatsABadThing?,
Can you or anybody explain to me HOW GAY MARRIAGE IS A THREAT TO HETEROSEXUAL MARRIAGE?
For God's sake, they let Michael Jackson marry, how sacred is that?
As far as "mainstream values", don't even start me with that crap, if bombing another country is a mainstream value, than I don't want to be in the "mainstream value system."
As far as Rosie, she's a jerk, but so are many other people, that doesn't make her opinions on war radical. Wake up and enough with that garbage.
Im not for gay marriage,abortions etc. but this man and his megachurch should be taxed.They cross the line when they stick their beak into politics.I just lost it for Obama.
. Obama has it right. By including warren– a man I do not agree with–barack obama is reaching out to those americans who do not share all of his beliefs. That is a wise and magnanimous thing to do.Barack Obama is a much better man than those who profess to be celebrating diversity.
The left as usual is clueless.So arrogant, so CERTAIN that what they believe is the acme of human thought, that they cannot tolerate any train of thought that runs counter to what they believe.
There is not a bigger myth today than the tolerant liberal. Celebrate diversity is just a hollow slogan. If you look at the words and deeds of liberals, they are far from being the forebearing souls they want you to believe. This hysterical reaction to Obama's choice of Warren is just the latest example in an unending line of liberal hypocrisy.
"Inclusive" doesn't mean anti-gay rights, "inclusive" doesn't mean limiting women's rights to their legal choices! Is this the only preacher in the country that Obama thinks is suitable? Shame!
It does not surprising thathe made this move. He could have chosen T.D. Jakes or any prominent Pastor and he picked Rick Warren. Obama believe that , at the square, your action speaks louder then your words. Obama did not change his position but we can disagree in love. Remember, even though it fs somewhat foreign to us, Obama is leading from the center.
I, for one, am up for a good ole' ACT UP-type protest in Washington on inauguration day. I doubt if I'm alone.
No matter WHO he chose, he would have offended someone. If he chose a Baptist, a Methodist would have been offended. If it were a Catholic, a Mormon would have been offended. The fact that he chose anyone, the athiests are offended. If he picked nobody, all the relious people would have been offended. This is a non issue. A talking point. What does he say with the national stage, THAT is the issue.
He certainly could have made a better choice by choosing Calvin Butts in NYC or Otis Moss in Chicago.
Warren is just giving the invocation at the inaguration, it's not like he is to head an important post. It's bread crumbs people.
Will wait for the presidential inauguration next month
to see if Rick Warren has what it takes to deliver a truly inspiring
invocation speech to the american people.
Curious why President Elect – Obama chose Peter Warren,
under whose advice ?
Obama is a homophobe – never wanted his picture taken with the pro-gay marriage mayor of S.F. before he ran for President – maybe he thought he would catch gayness.
"Oh, I'm sorry...I thought tolerance and inclusion were the characteristics to which I should aspire. I guess they only apply to people who think and act just like me. That's not inclusion, that's exclusion; that's not tolerance, it's intolerance; that's not freedom, it's fascism."
Okay, the man might be a radical conservative, but GET OVER IT!! Everyone is not going to agree with everyone else. We have to learn to deal with and work with people who are different.
cardron December 17th, 2008 6:42 pm ET
I agree with everything you say - thank you - and even though I was NOT an Obama supporter, I applaud this choice. I also knew that Obama would not maintain his "stance" of the primaries and general election. For that I'm glad and dismayed at the same time, because he "ran" on what he obviously now is not. Ah, well . . .
After donating and working for Obama, this choice both saddens and disappoints.
It saddens me because I was very enthusisatic about this administration and with choice that thinks gays are "morally wrong" that enthusiaism is gone.
Disappointed that the representative for the right should be so divisive. Onsteen would have been a much better choice.
So, I still wish Obama the best and still think he is the best choice at this time for the country, but the luster is gone and I will find something else to do on Inaugral Day. This choice will also free up more of my future funds for paying down my bills.
I'm worried about the price of food.
I'm worried about paying my utilities this month.
I'm worried about buying my wife and child good enough gifts for Christmas.
I'm worried about my 401k.
I am not worried about a pastor at an inauguration.
Proud advocate of gay marriage
For you who say abortion is the same as the Holocaust, have you lost your minds. Why don't you call a womans period or a mans ijaculation a holocaust. There is potential for life there too.
While I cannot say that I would ever willingly listen to one of Mr. Warrens sermons, I cannot also say that he is an inappropriate choice for Barak Obama to make for offering an invocation. I am sure that this preacher hopes to become the next "religious leader" of the us of a. Unfortunately for him, most of us will not give him the right to tell us how to think. So he is doomed to fail, since he can only succeed if we agree to give up our minds. And those who do should be immediately placed into one of those "de programming" centers that they began in the 60's to remove cult brain washing. I do believe that there is a God. But I also believe that a bird singing in a tree speaks more truly of him than anything Mr. Warren or his ilk could say. The bird sings for its joy in the life God gave him. The holy Rollers are looking for human power. Go bird! Hush up Preachers!
Good grief!!! 8 years of Bush and look how divided we are! It's sickening and sad. Take a good look at yourselves and ask if this is really what we want for our country for our children? America is full of diversity, religious preferences, orientation and cultural back grounds. Where does it say that we all have to think alike? Let people be who they are and quit the judgment, not only will it this make us United ( and for those of you who do not know your history the actual saying was Divided we stand, United we fall. Look it up it was changed) but it will help us build a future our children can prosper in.
Keep religion out! Period.
Another great example of liberals lacking the ablity to accept anyone that believes differently than they. We are headed down a slippery slope. You cannot please everyone all the time. I find it amusing that these same liberals cannot comprehend why someone would be opposed to a pro choice speaker. Turnaboutis fair play. What happened to accepting that people may not believe the same things you believe. Like for example, that gay marriage should not be dictated in the courts. I thought people had the right to vote their conscience. Nope, I guess it's my way or the highway with them.
This is funny. I thought the "outrage" from the headline was going to be because Comrade Obummer had chosen a gay band for the inaugural parade but no - it's because of a man who "championed issues such as calling for the reduction of global poverty, human rights abuses, and the AIDS epidemic." Liberal leftists are NEVER satisfied, which is why the Right will always be at war with them and rightly so.
Josh,
Do the ghosts under your bed scare you too?
How about your own shadow?
Country hasn't been attacked since 911 is the biggest crock I ever heard. Thet is the little boo BUsh says when conservative cowards step out of line.
Get over your fear.
Terrible Choice, Period.
no matter what this man does, SOMEBODY is not going to like it. Welcome to the big time President Obama. I guess it was a far better choice than Rev. Wright though.
Since when is LGBT equality a "mainstream America" issue? Last time I checked, nearly every state that has voted on gay marriage voted against it!
What happened to the open-mindedness that everyone enjoyed during the presidential race? Part of Obama's message during the campaign was finding common graound and acting in a bipartisan manner. While some of Warren's views may be rooted in religion and conservative ideals, where is the bipartisanship? I am for gay marriage and for President Obama, but I believe this was a good move on Obama's part. Warren is very active in seeking peace and ending poverty- that is Obama and Warren's common ground. Just as the left is entitled to its pro-gay marriage view, Warren is entitled to his anti-gay marriage view. What are you trying to do hear, smother the views of the right and pretend they don't exist? "Mainstream America" is about open-mindedness and free speech, which is just what Warren's address will represent on inauguration day.
I strongly support Obama in general, and I understand his big-tent approach to politics, but I disagree with this choice. Warren may be someone you can work with on some issues, but his view that GLBT people don't have the same rights that I do is repugnant and indefensible. It's the biggest remaining civil rights issue in our country, and Warren is a dinosaur on it. GLBT people are as human as I am, as human as you are, as human as anyone is. Obama should not give a bigot like Warren a forum unless he comes into the 21st century on this issue.
Really Barack,
You think that by running away from us, you will look grown up? Don't be shortsighted, four years run pretty fast. We want to celebrate our victories, the one of the civil right and the civil liberties including those of gays and those who think that preacher should talk to the soul and not openly advocate for the failure of Iran or his killing.
Rick is an opportunist regardless of what he does for Africa. Barack Obama, it is weak to let this guy do the invocation. What has he done really except to incite division.
Slavery was a stain on the constitution, Rick warren invocation will be a stain on your inauguration.
I see dumb people.
Lesbians and Gays need to take their heads out of the sand. This country is the most religious of the western democracies. Barack Obama does support their rights. If gays and lesbians want the rights then they should fight for the rights not the word because that sounds a little like seeking validation and acceptance. Somewhere down the road someone will come along to fight for the rights but this is the beginning of the movement. It took black people 100 years to get rights guaranteed them by the Emancipation Proclamation. Do your homework already!!
You can't please everyone all of the time. We need to work together, even when we don't see eye to eye. That is the new way. We can benefit from everyones civilized input and find a respectable balance between one another. Lets just Celebrate the day!!!
Sorry folks, this great Country of ours was founded on God/religion. If you don't like it, please don't try to take away my religious freedoms. Instead, perhaps you should consider moving to a communist country or something. I find it amusing that some folks think gay/lesbian = mainstream America. Personally I hope that never happens.
Rick Warren is a great choice (by the way I'm a Democratic evangelical who voted for Obama).
The Holocaust analogy is bunk. I have relatives who survived the Holocaust. They would dispute Warren's comparison... and they were there.
It's the religious nut-jobs like Warren that elected a president who put this nation through the meat-grinder. SCREW the Religious Right...!!! No one owes them a penny. This is a very poor choice. Obviously, we'll see more and more as Obama reveals who he really is.
The left-wingers advocate and adhere to being "open-minded" and "inclusive"...until it disagrees with their own narrow views. As for Rick Warren, he actually DOES represent "mainstream America". Left-wingers have a hard time with that. They simply DON'T speak for the majority of Americans, even though they keep trying to tell us all that they do.
I am tremendously disappointed in Barack for this move, but I will continue to give him my support. I suppose you can't expect the President to always make decisions consistent with his or her values. Sometimes he or she must appease radical groups, and I do indeed intend to refer to Evangelical Christians as a radical group. While I support LGBT rights and the pro-choice stance, my disappointment is not specific to those issues. It's more the fact that he'd have someone with caveman views of the world introduce what is supposed to be a new, more rational and insightful administration.
TERRIBLE CHOICE!!
This man is strongly against the rights of a minority group of people, he is definitely the wrong person to speak at inaguration. I am VERY dissapointed at the decision Obama made.
Rick Warren will be giving the invocation ONLY. Obama has said, repeatedly . . . he will be the President, for ALL AMERICANS. What about this don't people understand. America is made up of ALL TYPES OF PEOPLE!
Rick Warren is an excellent choice !!!!! ! ! ! ! !!!!!!!! ! ! ! ! !!!!
To engender genuine evangalistic spirit to the enauguration, what is needed is a person who had contact with his diety. One sign of this being the case with the Pentacostal preacher is evidenced by profuse sweating. Even on a cold day outside, this would occur if the evangalist were truly in contact with his almighty.
If Rick Warren is not a heavy sweater, he is not genuine. So if RW is not a sweater, I suggest that Jimmy Swaggart or Rod Parsley be pressed into service to present the invocation. Both JS and RP are profuse providers of perspiration when in contact with their god. And if either should be selected, I suggest he be permitted to bring an abbreviated ensamble for his presentation... the organ mini-riff player (or a few recorded snippets therefrom) is a must.
President Elect Obama: You blew it. I am a voting rights attorney who contributed a lot of money and worked hard for your campaign in Florida. The choice of this "pastor" disheartens me. A pastor welcomes all who enter and does not judge. My daughter is a gay women and I am an adamant gay rights supporter. Buck up. I know you are trying to be conciliatory, eg. I don't think his beliefs are those you embrace, but there is a place to draw the line. I have airline tickets to attend the innauguration; somehow I am less enthused now.
Bad Choice in picking Rick Warren. We have not forgotten how Rick lied when he said that John McCain was in a "cone of silence" at the Saddleback forum. Rick has no credibility in my book!!! End of story.
The so called "mainstream America" she speaks of doesn't agree with gay marriage. Check the votes. I, for one, am eager to see Obama open dialogues with people with whom he may not agree on everything. Nothing gets done in this country when we plug our ears and yell at the other side (see 2000-2008).
Obama is probably just trying to reach out to republicans because this is a crucial time where we all need to be as united as possible. I'm not even republican and this issue doesn't phase me at all. I wish people would calm down and worry about other more important issues like poverty and education.
Hye, isn't they a gay band going to be at the ceremony?
This Inaugural speech is a clever idea by Obama. He can stroke the Evangelicals without giving a whole lot. After all, come the day after the Inaugurals, the Evangelicals have had their treat and must watch from the sidelines.
Another month, just another month, and we can start moving forward again.
This is what I don't understand with the gay and lesbian movement in America! Every time someone says or does something they don't approve of, it not only makes headline news (thanks to a pliable media), but the rest of the country seems to be held hostage by this group, which really is no different from any other group with equal rights in America!
Why aren't other groups in America coming out in staunch support of Obama's choice? By being silent these other groups are allowing themselves to be bullied by the gay and lesbian movement, and I am sure that if other groups were to come out against the gay and lesbian movement for any public position on issues, the gay and lesbian movement would blow their lids sky high in self-righteous indignation!
America remains a country of free choice, and Obama has made his choice! The gay and lesbian community doesn't have to agree, but at least respect the man's right to choose! Gays and lesbians do have the same right to choose and so they can choose to stay the hell away from the inauguration!
I am so upset that I spent any time working for him and contributing to his campaign. I should have spent more time on and money on stopping Proposition 8. I was going to take the day off to watch it. Forget it now. This is the worst insult.
You so called liberals probably think you own Obama, and so he can only do what you want???
The far left is very tolerant only of those that agree with them.
This is almost hilarious. Obama invites someone that doesn't agree with their view of the gay/lesbian movement and all of a sudden it's chicken little, "the sky is falling, the sky is falling!" Ever stop to think that the only way to ever get your point across is to reach out to those with whom you disagree? If you read the guy's resume, he's done a heck of a lot more in this world than anyone posting here. One of the reason's even those of us who agree with efforts to get/lesbian folks their rights get ticked at them is their irrational behavior toward anyone who strays form their definition of "the path." EVERY TIME someone even speaks to anyone who disagrees with their issues all of a sudden it's tar and feathering time for all involved. Until you all figure that it takes a large person of character to reach out to those with whom he disagrees, you'll continue to have problems getting your point across. In short, it's not about you!
As a long time Business Democrat, this move was brilliant. Keep the Religious Right on your side. I would have done more. Instead bring him on in some type of Religious Advisory role.
Go Obama!
I'm glad liberals are crying now. You should have voted for HILLARY GET OVER IT NOW. I truly hope he become even more conservative than all democrats in the party. "I told you so" LOL
All I can say is I hope that for all of you that voted for Obama ... you are happy. This man has not the slightest idea as to what he is going to do or how he is going to do it. I think it shows with selecting this man for the inaugaration. The truth comes out not that he has received everyones votes for "change." You voted for him, suck it up and deal with the idiot.
I wrote both Rick Warren and Obama transition blog
As an openly gay donor to Obama campaign the news of Rick Warren giving the invocation at the inaugeral ,is election night deja vu, all over again. Gays and Lesbians were celebrationg with all the rest of America the Obama victory, then at 11pm we get a shiv shoved in our back with prop 8. Rick Warren and the LDS elders were the MAIN SUPPORTERS which attacked LGBT families in CA, making us the ONE minority not covered by the equal protection clause.
I hope EVERY queer and our friends attending the Inaugeral, TURNS THEIR BACK to Rick Warren, a salute of a single finger wouldn't hurt ...either.
I am so disappointed the president to Bring America TOGETHER, chooses to tear us apart at his FIRST oppurtunity
CHANGE WE CAN BELIEVE...what's the WE crud?
What else is new! Anything Obama does will invite critisism..........Mr. Obama is right in welcoming all people with differering views; just because he may not agree with them doesn't mean he can't respect them. Liberals should shut up and hold their tongue.
By the way Campbell Brown is the biggest jerk on CNN these days. She is working really hard to make her news hour different but all she does is scream nonsense, maybe she should be forced to watch herself and make some changes to her tone. She has an Obama bug up her you know what.............................That's what wrong with these 24 hour news cycles..................They make it up as they go along.
OK, did anyone also see the piece that said a gay lesbian group will be marching in the Inaugural parase? When has THAT happened before? I think by these two moves TOGETHER (and it is a shame that the writer of that article doesn't mention the paraders) Obama is sending a clear message that he will listen to both sides of a debate. Only those who can only bear to hear from people who agree with them should be offended.
Mahalo PEBO!
The de-moralizing of America has demoralized America!
Hey, you have to look on the bright side of things. Just think, he could have picked Jim Wright!!
Evangelicals should not rejoice at Obama's choice of Rick Warren, either. He preaches as false gospel and many conservative Christians have fallen blindly for his "40 days of purpose" hype. Powerful and influential? Yes. Dangerous to true Christianity? Absolutely.
"The president-elect certainly disagrees with him on [Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender] issues"...meaning Warren. The Gay and Lesbian community should be ecstatic. This sounds just as confusing.
No more religion. Please.
Inclusion run amuk!
While I still view Obama as extremely liberal his somewhat moderate choices that have outraged the far left of our country is great! However most of these so called "moderates" arent' really so when you examine their actual voting record. Rick Warren is a great man, he gives 90% of his mone to charity; how many of you liberal hypocrits give more than 1% of your money away? I happen to support gay marriage but have NO problem with people that don't. I would love it if Warren laid into the topic of abortion and outraged all pro-choice people in the audience. Of course he won't, but what a stage he has to stop the new holocaust.
Hillary looks better than ever!
As someone once said, "there's one born every minute..."
How did choosing a paster for the inauguration turn into a gay issue????
Now that he chose this paster to do it, he is going to be a horrible president.......YOU HAVE GOT TO BE KIDDING ME!!!!
P.S. why are all these wacko republicans coming on here and saying words like "left wing wackos"????
It is painfully obvious that the writers of all the comments asking why there has to be an invocation haven't been paying attention. There is ALWAYS an invocation.
Are you so new to the world of politics? Your ignorance is showing
not a good unbiased choice. Who controls what he says?
Most Democrats would object if Jesus gave the invocation. They would call him radical, maybe even scream, "Crucify him."
So Obama decides to pick a mainstream choice to invoke Jehovah's blessing at his coronation. I'm like so surprised.
I hope all you "centrist" Americans choke our your self-righteousness. You get what you vote for.
What did the gays expect? Like most black people, Obama is religious and homophobic. He does not need the gays or the liberal left wingers to win the next election. He needs the mainstream churchgoers, the center. He is a typical politician. How could you not see that? Change, hope... That was bull. Politics as usual.
Most Democrats would object if Jesus gave the invocation. They would call him radical, maybe even scream, "Crucify him."
I would expect that most clergy are against Gay marriage and abortion. The Episcopal church has been one of the more liberal faiths and look at how these issues are tearing it apart.
I am a Democrat and liberal on social issues, but I appreciate how Obama is reaching out to all and I hope that he does not cave to a liberal agenda. A liberal preacher will alienate more people than a more popular and conservative one.
"Like it or not, it is common to human nature. Apparently the need to believe in a higher power is in our genetic make-up."
Only in the genetically weak.
Why is the far left outraged or even surprised at this? Obama has never said he supports gay marriage; do you think he just changed his mind? Quit being blind sheep and supporting whoever is the democratic nominee. If you want to advance gay rights you'll vote the most conservative nominee as they stand for keeping the government out of your life or the libertarian nominee.
I am thrilled we have a smart man as President....who really cares about Warren as his pick, in time no one will remember nor care!
This is a pathetic choice, period.
There are much more "tolerant" Pastors, from the Christian faith.
One who comes to mind is Kirbyjohn Caldwell.
This man, who preaches intolerance, does not deserve to be part of the inauguration ceremonies.
He does not represent the voice of the American people who elected Obama to office.
A very disappointing choice. There were many Pastors who would have been more suitable.
.
Obama has just slapped the LGBT community in the face. To have done this after the huge blow of Prop. 8 is beyond the imagination. Obama is no friend to this community. But, hey, I knew that all along.......I voted for Hillary.
Whatever happened to that long lost Christian virtue called tolerance? I have to side with Bill Maher on this topic.
I have generally approved of Obama’s efforts to reach across to the other side. He wants to be president of all america. I get it. However, Rick Warren is radical right wing nut. Just last month he gave “W” a medal of Peace. No that is not a joke.
I love Obama but I am starting to have doubts.
As one of the growing number of atheists in this country who've had it with this religious clap trap being rammed down our collective throats by whichever religious sect has the bully pulpit today – I say who needs an invocation anyway and how much of my taxpayer dollars are being used to accomplish it so I can demand a rebate!
Terry, you misrepresent Warren's position.
Many people, Hitler for one, fail to fulfill their mission.
As a gay American I voted for McCain.
The man speaks the truth.
OUT OF BOTH SIDES OF HIS MOUTH.
With Obama now all you kool aid drinkers know
I can't believe all these negative comments about Warren. If you came to his church and actually heard what he had to say and what his church was doing you would like him. Secondly if Obama had picked Billy Grahm for example how is Bill's Grahms ideals and principals about abortion and gay marriage any different. Or how about Joel Olstead or any of these other high profile pastors. I don't know any one of them who is gay marriage. But you know its his own personal beleifs and Warren doesn't cram his beliefs down your throat either. Warren is a strong advocate for helping the poor and people with HIV and AIDS. I don't understand why people are so threatend by this choice to lead a prayer at the innaguration.
Wow, if the "seeker-friendly" Saddleback Church pastor is viewed in this fashion, I can scarely imagine how anything remotely near a conservative theologian would have been viewed. Regardless, President-elect Obama is to be congratulated for his efforts at change. While I did not personally support him, he certainly deserves our support in these difficult times.
Ok people, here are my thoughts.
First, I am a gay American. I was (and still am) vehemently opposed to Prop 8 and the ban on same-sex marriage that was forced on California and us, LGBT living there. I strongly believe in rights for all, and am VERY resentful towards right-wing conservative religious groups that have exerted their influence on politics.
When I first read of Obama's choice, I was apalled.
However, the more I thought about it, the more I arrived at this conclusion: and that is that Obama is simply trying to involve all those people who make up this country as a part of his inauguration. Of course, I am saddened that our country still has religious, homophobic, and extremely bigoted individuals, but nevertheless, they are a part of American society as much as we all are.
When Obama won the presidency, he stated that he will be president to all, both those who voted for him, and those who didn't. People like Warren are part of that crowd and, hence, cannot be completely disregarded.
Of course, that's not to say that I am still a bit uncomfortable at the idea of Warren delivering the invocation but, for Obama's sake (not mine), he will be there so as to give those religious conservatives out there an idea that they too are somehow involved in this historic celebration.
Of course, I do not believe that simply because Warren was invited that Obama is anti-LGBT. In the long run, it is Obama who will sign law into legislation, not Warren.
And while small, Obama has invited the first all-gay marching band to perform at his wedding (that is just more evidence to show that Obama is trying to be inclusive to all).
Having said this, I want to tell all my fellow LGBT American's to not jump the gun and think that Obama has abandoned us. It is too early in the game to jump to this conclusion. Now if in his presidency he does align his views about LGBT individuals with Warren's views, then I will feel indignated, hurt, and betrayed.
Warren didn't make Obama look bad at his debate -Obama clearly had that part under control. It was one of his first debates, so understandable.
I am not a big Warren or Obama fan, but I think it's great that those who thought they voted in a liberal utopia are being "betrayed" by their savior just because he invited someone who views things differently then them to speak. Yes, it is the old tried and true "progressive" playbook: free speech for everyone unless you disagree with us. America is better off with a centrist Obama who is not as out of touch and juvenile as yourselves.
I trust Barack's choice of people to fill his administration 100%
I cannot understand however, why he would choose someone
who LIED about McCAIN being in the zone of silence, while
McCain was still in his hotel room with access to Warren's broadcast.
McCain trumped Barack at Warrens forum because he was
able to listen to the questions being asked of Barack!
Maybe Barack is trying to make a STATEMENT? He is reaching
out to someone who did not treat him fairly? I have to admit
that I am puzzled, (not upset) just really puzzled by this pick.
Who do I need to vote for to get rid of these unintelligent, hateful christian fascists? I thought with Obama I'd get a break for awhile but here they come again... Come on Obama – We the people who contributed to your campaign and voted for you don't want these people involved in our government anymore!
Wow, this is truly shocking. First Obama names an almost entirely male cabinet. Now he stabs the gay community in the back. I guess we should have guessed this would happen based on the way he throws anyone in his life under the bus if they get in his way (Jeremiah Wright, for instance). Obama has earned a lot of detractors with this move. Hope he feels it was worth it.
What I am reminded of is the marketing/business term "bait and switch". That's what I feel I have been subjected to. You might as well have kicked me in the stomach, Mr. Obama. Man, the air is out of my balloon.
Randy Tate
Maybe this will help put an end to the lie that Obama represents some radical leftist agenda. The man is barely even a liberal! Just look how loudly the GOP and its Fox/Talk radio noise machine has been praising his mediocre, establishment cabinet picks.
"Jeez, you'd think the liberals at some point would just grow up and stop being outraged by everything. You're REALLY making conservatives look like the cool kids on the block."
Hey, we are cool! Where do you see the old-school traditions of value and family being so transparent in the world than it is now?? Not only people are getting married more, but they're happy more...well, except counting the divorce rate. Or how about keeping the ol tradition of love and honesty? Well, unless you're 16 years old but the point is that we are cool still, we haven't made an impact like this since the "Knights Templar" was around, LOL!! And look at how that went! Might've taken a long time but I like our odds...
I have to say, I think it'll be really tough to choose someone who has what some critics are saying, "Mainstream values." That's like having Janet Jackson do the Super Bowl commercial, LOL!! It works either way!
And Pastor Rick is a good person, he's reasonable and understandable. He's a good fit for it. And look who's talking about being radical when you have 2 women getting married or let alone be in "love." I've been in this game, I know how it works, LOL!! And that's hot and crazy talk by the way...(note: speaking or NEVER speak on behalf of woman, they have their own crazy ideas to choose from)...
While it is fair to say that the gay community is a growing segment, it was terribly irresponsible for Kolbert to report that lifestyle as "mainstream."
The truth of the matter is that by far, the majority of America is still Christian, by all accounts. True enough, the Liberal voice seems to cry the loudest, and the squeaky wheel gets the grease, but Christianity is far from being done with in this country.
I personally, applaude President elect Obama for this appointment. It shows that he is willing to go out on a limb and reach outside his own beliefs for the common good. While not an Obama supporter myself, I must admit that this decision has instilled at least a bit of confidence in the man.
Explain how you can be gay and a Christian minister....
Don't you think the evangelicals who voted for Obama need to be part of the ceremony ? The Obama team has tried to keep a balance such that everyone is represented. But the way i see some people want to be given more than others which will not happen. Evangelicals who will attend are not complaining about the gay groups who will attend. Each one of us has been given a chance to make a choice of what he/she wants out of life and no one can stop you not even pastor Warren.
To think that Obama has turned his back on the people who fastly supported him. We've been sacraficed again.
Your right, religion is a crock, but a personal relationship with God is not. Look at the facts and you'll find the truth.
Let me get this straight. All of a sudden...just because Obama is reaching out to someoone with whom he disagrees on one issue, he's abandoned his belief in equal rights for gays? Boy, is that a stretch!
Obama should know by now to stay away from "ministers" and "pastors." These people are hucksters. It would have been a nice change to drop the invocation routine. The inauguration is a public demonstration of democracy blessed by the citizens in attendance, not the imaginary "father" in the sky.
Rick Warren is an idiot. He's right up there with Larry Craig!
I feel outraged... I recall vividly the interview at his church.... I also remember very well the difference in his handling of Obama compared to McCain. I see very little that inclines to me to think that he should even be at the event. I don't have much respect for a man who claims to be a Christian... .not to mention Minister... and behaves as hypocritically as this man did.
But then again... it is not my decision to be made....
Perhaps Obama is a more forgiving person than I... so it seems.
I'm not a Christian... I don't have to turn the other cheek... all I have to do is stay on my path and allow him to walk his own. I leave any judging to be done to the Creator. But I don't have to make him my buddy either. Or trust him at my back either.
I think it was a smart move, we are going to need the help of the powerful radical christian lobby machine to not stand in the way of important legislation that Obama is going to try and get done early in his term.
I am worried the 'left wing' of the party is about to fly the coup.
Lighten up, Obama. We worked our tails off for you (and us), and the 'shock and awe' is taking it's toll.
And thirdly, where is HOWARD DEAN is this big tent you are creating?????
I'm a flaming liberal, but no problem. Obama is doing his dead level best to make a coalition of Americans. Let Obama do his thing. The minister for his inauguration is just a part of his excellent plan.
A lot of different people and groups helped to elect Obama, not just far left liberals. Alienating Warren won't help change attitudes. His inclusion might help open his mind to other opinions and soften his own stance. If not, it will at least still serve to demonstrate that Obama wants to connect with others, and is inclusive of all Americans now that he represents all Americans.
Im not gay, but if i was i would want the option to marry. Does that make it right? I dont know. But you do...in your heart.
Who cares? This does not mean that Obama agrees with the guy. Didn't we learn this during the election? Being around someone you disagree with on some issues does not make you a believer in ALL that they believe in. Get over it! Obama is still pro-choice and pro-gay rights. To all those pro-choice and pro-gay rights liberals who are complaining- try voting Republican next time. You'll see what will happen to you.
Rev. Wright looks mighty good right now.
Rick Warren is a moron.
So allowing people with disabilities equal rights (<2% of the population) is different from allowing homosexuals equal rights? (<2% of population)
Why should any "majority" determine oppressive ethics/morals and civil liberties for all? (Jewish, Disabled, Buddhist, Muslim, Agnostic, Atheist, Asian/Black/Indian/European etc.)
The comments against Obama's choice of Warren are confusing to me. An invocation, by one definiton, is basically a prayer. An appropriate person to lead the prayer is a pastor. Pastors are, by nature, conservative. I can't believe this is what people find time to whine about. Presidents represent the majority – and the majority of people don't make it their first priority to make sure that the person giving the invocation is "acceptable" to the GLBT community.
I don't get it! Is this an extreme attempt for Barak to distance himself from Rev. Wright ? I don't blame him for distancing himself but THIS GUY? I don't get it.
I am impressed with the fact that Obama is selecting people for various cabinet posts and tasks (including the inauguration invocation) on the totality of an individual's being and actions rather than on one's particular position on one or two given issues. Rick Warren, though he has talked about gay marriage and abortion, is one of the few christian leaders today that really has got it right regarding the heart of Jesus' message. Jesus to my knowledge never talked about gay marriage or abortion, but he talked a great amount about justice, mercy and love for one another.
I'm a liberal and an atheist. It doesn't bother me at all. Ideally, there would be no religious freaks near politics, but I will never see that day. Get over it! Trust me, there are far greater issues to get upset over!!
I am a major...major Obama supporter.... He made a big mistake here!
I'm surprised at Obama. He"overlooked" the people who helped vote him in. This idiot Warren is just another fool who thinks he's God.
I'm sick of him claiming that "God is on his side". I HIGHLY DOUBT IT !!!
I love how the left proclaims to be for the common person, but manages to consistantly throw them under the bus to get ahead. The only thing an autoworker (or anyone else for that matter) does is go to work everyday to support their families. They do not make decisions that will affect these corporations or spend their money. The fact of the matter is the Government has standardized them to death. Poor management and the stock marker hasn't helped. Toss in the tree hugging left and 20 million poverty wage earning illegals and you have a recipe for what we are seeing today. You can blame Bush or you can blame Pelosi or Reid, (I'm not fans of any of them, if their lips are moving they are lying.) Why don't they take a 20% across the board paycut before offering it as a solve all problem for someone else? Maybe you haven't noticed but they can't even balance their own budget. I would take that in a second if all house and senate members agree to vote in term limits and go back into our healthcare and social security programs. No more golden parachutes. I suggest you purchase a mirror and take a glance at it once in awhile. There's an excellent chance you'll see the crux of the problem.
Merry Christmas to all and a Happy New Year!!!!
Rev. Wright looks mighty good right now.
I am so thrilled with what I am reading here. All of you who are posting are saying nearly the same thing. Either you are supportins Obama and agreeing with what he is doing ( by the way I am also impressed with him so far) or you are watching and hopeing that he will bw the one who will bring this country back together. But you are all talking together of one accord for the most part and that is good. This country pulling together with the help of God cannot be beat. But our only hope of success is to all work together whether we agree with every issue or not should not matter. As long as the main issues are all agreed on. Things like who believes what doesn't amount to a thing. We need to all hold up the flag.
Obama is Left of liberal, and he will help destroy this country from with in its boarders. Picking this so-called pastor is no more than a clear sign that he belongs in the pastures!
This is also a clear sign that Obama has no consciousness when it comes to a God fearing country and the inability understand the commandments of God the father and his only begotten son Jesus Christ!
Rick Warren is a Christian in the most Biblical sense of the word and is an EXCELLENT choice for the inauguration.
His choice sets a wonderful moral tone for the new administration.
Or would you prefer McCain and Rod Parsley ???????????????
Obama's stock just went up a few points. He understands that business as usual politics needs to leave and walked the walk, by picking people more to the center, across the aisle, and across party lines.
Rick Warren is an influential pastor and writer and has a more liberal christian perspective than many. A comparison to James Dobson is laughable.
Obama is not catering to the radical left...I LOVE that as a conservative. I am beginning to like this guy, even with his radical beliefs about abortion...
actually our next president is really a conservative. He sure fooled you liberal idiots.
You people on the extreem far left need to stop whining. The choice was Obama or McCain. If McCain had been elected, who do you think HE would have chosen to give the invocation...John Shelby Spong? Forget it!
Obama will be the president of ALL Americans, not just the radical far left.
I am a liberal who voted for Obama. While I do not embrace all of Pastor Warren's teachings, I certainly have no problem with him giving the prayer at the inauguration of PE Obama. Folks, Obama is not always going to do things with which we agree, so we must all learn to agree to disagree.
Together with Wright, we now have two examples of religious leaders in Obama's prayer circle who profess a love for God alongside intolerant views and hateful, divisive stances on issues of the day. The name and spirit of Jesus is not well served when used to justify intolerance and hate - on the right or left, of country or gays and lesbians. This is a disturbing bungling of what up to now had been an inclusive message about the inauguration. Has the Obama team studied Rick Warren's speeches? Questioned him on what he believes happens to the Jews at the second coming? Are they sure that gays are the only targets of Warren's venom? Perhaps this will work to Obama's advantage, but it was a blow to those of us who supported Obama because he represented change and progress, not a reversion to the hate-based politics of his Republican predecessors. What's next, President-elect Obama – will you give the commencement address at Liberty University? For shame.
Oh, my God (so to speak)! Obama is a politician! Who could ever have guessed?
I wouldn't have been surprised if George W. had chosen Rick Warren to participate four years ago, but this is a new day. I have been very proud of Obama's top-notch choices for cabinet members. However, I'm equally disappointed in his choice of an egomaniac, an opportunist like Rick Warren, to give the invocation.
who cares he is speaking for maybe 10 minutes and he isnt giving a sermon..Get over it people. The church is here to say and no people arent perfect. Let the man say what he wrote about Obama and be on his way. If its not one thing its another people have to complain about what Obama does.
A better choice would have been someone from the Unitarian Church.
I agree with Brad, gay/lesbian is not main stream. I pray it never will be. This country was founded off religion and I hate how people have forgotten that, sorry but if you don't like it....move. I see Canada in your near futures....
Who cares? It's just a lot of pomp and circumstance. It would be nice if we didn't have to have any pastor at all... Personally, I'd prefer a poet.
Barack Obama has tossed the ideological litmus test that gave the world the failed Bush Presidency.
Thank you Mr. Obama – THAT is a change we need.
Litmus tests, right or left polarize, divide and lead to linear thinking. They may feel good, but they are terribly bad.
i'm glad i live in canada!
Perhaps the choice of Rick Warren is a way of Barack Obama observing Warren?
I am Gay and supports President – Elect Obama's choice of RIck Warren for his invocation. I grew up in a Baptist church and had a Pastor who preached against Gays. But I became his friend he soften his tone and began to undersatnd us more. We need to stop this – I do want you doing this because you are conservative or don't believe in my views sfuff. I grew up in the South as an African American and have found that if we quit dividing ourselves with our points of views and then we will start understanding each others points of view – As President-Elect Obama said in his acceptance speech – I will be your President (All Americans)
I don't believe Barack will be able to move the country in a new direction without drawing in the "Warren-Dobson" subset of our country. You can't isolate people if you want or need them to be a part of the change you are wanting to bring. I am a gay female and I personally do not agree with Rick Warren on his social conservative positions but I don't think that makes him a bad human being or one that does not have the right to be given this honor. And I don't believe that it means Barack agrees with him either. But, again, you can't be successful by isolating everyone you disagree with. There is obviously a very large conservative religious following in this country. They need to be brought on board. The only way to do that is to respect them – and allow one of their leaders to be part of this new administration.
waa! waa! waa!
Obama is trying to seek middle ground and bring this country together. He selects, contrary to what some have posted, a well respected Christian leader, to particiapte in the inauguration and all moonbat bleeding hearts are already regretting their vote.
If this is a surprise to some of the folks who "feverishly supported" Obama, then you did not do your research. He stated he was a CHRISTIAN! Get over it.
And for anyone to say this does not represent mainstream America, thay have lost touch with reality. California voted down same-sex marriage and the gay community has not shut up since. The people have spoken. Accept it, get over it and move on. Enough whining.
I wish it had been James Dobson – but, bravo, none the less!
I find it so offensive that the liberal left consider themselves "open-minded, and non-judgemental" until the conservatives are given a voice – then their true colors come out...hateful and vicious.
Maybe Mr. Warren will bring the true message – and revelation – of Christ to many at the inauguration –
I'll be praying for him, that's for sure
I watched the "interview" with Warren and McCain and Obama. Obama was totally used by Mr. Warren. Obama was set up, and used for Warren's purposes. Now we see this. What is the opint. Does Obama really think that the evangelicals in this country are going to do anything but hate him? Hatred breed hatred. How sad. I really thought that Obama was smarter than that. Apparently he is not.
I can feel safe saying that I do not agree with a single social opinion that Rick Warren has. I'm also an Obama supporter. I totally understand why the LGBT community – and many of my closest friends – feel so violated by this choice.
But, I am also hoping that Obama selection of Warren for the invocation is a step forward in two greatly-opposed sides learning to work together instead of engaging in a constant tug-of-war. Tug-of-war gets us nowhere.
This Warren guy is the perfect face for the problem in this country. Today's evangelical doesn't know enough about Jesus to fill the crack of an ant's behind.
The rightwing has turned The Bible into a bludgeoning insturment. I cannot imagine how many will not come to know Christ as a result of his awful portrayal by the evangelicals.
No doubt the devil has built himself a new wing down there.
Does this mean that Billy Graham is out? If so, this has got be the first inaug. in many many years.
Great choice in picking Rick Warren!
I just really laugh when I read all these comments. No wonder the country is in so much trouble. Its full of idiots.
Just last week, many people were saying, "Let the auto industry go bankupt!!!" Now that it is about to, millions and I do mean millions of people will be losing there jobs in the next couple of weeks. Just in time for Christmas....
And the things you are concerned about is "who is speaking" at the inauguration. Where iare people's priorities!!!!
One more time "MILLIONS OF PEOPLE ARE ABOUT TO LOSE THEIR JOBS"
I support the president. I stand behind him. Clean up this mess. I want to keep my job. That should be your main focus. Not on some minister. Where religion is concern, no one will ever agree until there is only one person left on earth.
Lets focus on the problem PLEASE, PLEASE PLEASE.
Your complaining about "HELL, EVERYTHING" is doing absolutely nothing but causing you grief and adding to the overall disfunction AND instability of this county.
BTW...how can any of you fix our problems..... If you are all so good at running the country PLEASE BECOME THE PRESIDENT......
God is real..and we all be judged...that is a fact. ..good luck!
No matter who he would choose, somebody would be upset. Remember, it's his inauguration, and he can choose anyone he pleases. Give it a rest!
Well I will put my two cents in now that I have read many comments.
Mainstream people go to church you know Sunday. Mainstream citizens believe in GOD yes I dared said the word GOD. Actually mainstream people believe in JESUS as fully God and fully man at the same time. Please settle down and let President elect Obama have who he wants. Obama will not please all of us and neither will GOD.
But if you have a problem with GOD JESUS go to God and leave Obama alone. Some of you are acting like little children who did not get your own way and your fighting over a man's faith. GROW UP If you do not have any faith at least respect the vast majority of American citizen that do. God loves you too.
Oh c'mon people. The guy is giving a prayer. He is not helping Obama run the oval office. Relax. Don't worry you will still have your communism soon enough.
Although the GLBT supported Obama during the election, it is a very small percentage of the population. Why does that community think that they can tell the majority of Americans what to do and have policy written around them? They are people just like everyone else and should not get special treatment for living an immoral lifestyle.
President elect Obama can pick anyone he wants to speak. Everybody is not going to agree, regardless who he picks. If it was Farrakhan people would be outraged, if it was Rev. Wright people would be outraged. So get over it people. He picked the person he wanted. Period!!!!!!!!!!!
I was so excited about change. Now I just feel I was duped.
i'm gay and this does not bother me. he is giving the invocation at his inauguration....people need to get over it, we know where obama stands on the GLBT issues. take your head out of your arse and we need to continue to support the next president of the US....this is a non-issue!!!!
It's called 'inclusion'. You can't applaud Obama when he includes people you agree with and then chastise him when he includes people with whom you don't agree. That's called 'hypocrisy' and 'childishness'.
Hey everyone, let's calm down about this . . . He's going to be giving an invocation; not being "Secretary of Religion" or anything. I can almost guarantee you that he's also not going to pray for all gays to go to hell during said invocation . . . I've been pretty happy so far with Obama's choices for his cabinet. He seems to be choosing people whom he thinks will do the best job.
Kim posted:
December 17th, 2008 8:40 pm ET
Explain how you can be gay and a Christian minister….
Kim,
If you need this explained to you, you have obviously missed the entire concept of Christianity. Christianity is not about acts but about faith. If that is not clear enough for you perhaps you should speak to your minister and have him provide for you a detailed list of all of his sins...........of course, you should provide the same, but I doubt you want to do that.
MESSAGE TO EXTREME LIBERAL LEFT: SIT DOWN AND SHUT UP!!!
Obama has preached the gospel of "ONE AMERICA" for years. Obama has preached the gospel of inclusiveness since his Harvard Graduate Schools days. No surprise here?
And now that he is bringing the CHANGE that he promised, , , and now that he is reaching across Party lines in meaningful ways not done by either Party in the past, , , and now that he is building a smart, sharp leadership team that will reach decisions through thoughtful consensus instead of unilateral, one-party dogma; , , THE EXTREME-LIBERAL-LEFT IS HAVING A CONNIPTION FIT!
I didn't vote for Obama, but if he is irritating liberals he has my support. Glad to see him reach across the aisle.
Does it really matter all that much? Almost all Christians oppose full civil rights for LGBT Americans – as far as I'm concerned, this guy's just a run-of-the-mill Christian. Besides, he's just doing some prayer thing at the Inauguration, it's not like he's making policy. Obama's throwing the Christians a bone, which is more than they deserve, but whatever. There are more important things to worry about, like the collapse of the American economy, getting the heck out of Iraq, and fixing the complete evisceration of our educational and health care programs on Bush's watch.
What a joke. Thank goodness for the DVR so we can fast forward over it.
As a Gay man and an Obama supporter, I say poor choice Sir!
Wow..lots of noise in here. Can I have everyones attention please? Thank you. It's just an invocation folks. We all know Obama's position on gay rights issues, and I dont think that having this man give the invocation will deter from his position in the least. He is trying to be inclusive, perhaps a bit too much for some, but I personally trust his decision making. Just when he was doubted during the campaign he showed time and time again that he can rise to the occasion. I think he knows what he is doing. We have 4 years to hold his feet to the fire on all issues including gay rights. Lets not blow our tops on this one issue. I predict under an Obama administration gay folks will have less to fear, but only time will tell.
You Libbies are sooo funny.
Just as all Republican and/or Democrat is bad. So is all liberal, agnostic, right, left, etc.
Obama made a good choice as he seeks to reestablish balance.
"jay: Who do I need to vote for to get rid of these unintelligent, hateful christian fascists? I thought with Obama I'd get a break for awhile but here they come again… Come on Obama – We the people who contributed to your campaign and voted for you don't want these people involved in our government anymore!"
Hateful Christian fascists? Seems to me the hate is pouring from you, my friend.
And, did you think you could buy Mr. Obama with your contributions? So, you expect favors for your money, like Blago?
My rights, as a Christian, are just as important as every other person on this planet. Seems I have more love and tolerance for you, then you do for me.
More proof of the truth....Jesus said you'd hate us, just like you do him.
Makes me trust and believe him that much more.
Obama is looking ahead to 2012, when he will neeed the religious right and other conservative voters to gain a second term. Like William Clinton, he is adopting Republican agendas to fall back on should his liberal base erode. Remember that Clinton signed the Welfare Reform Bill, something no Democratic president would do. This proved a winning ticket to his second term victory over Robert Dole, when Republicans deserted their party to vote for the man who shot down welfare queens driving around in Cadillacs.
>Sorry folks, this great Country of ours was founded on God/religion.
Uh, no. It wasn't. The prominence of religion in politics is modern, dating to the cold war, where it was saintly US vs ungodly USSR. That's why we have "...one nation under God..." etc.
Our founders were actually quite weary of religion's influence in politics.
In any case, even a rudimentary analysis of any national poll (eg Gallup) shows that people like Rick Warren are either dying out, or at least not increasing (as a % of total population). Virtually all polls show the majority of Americans believe that homosexual relations should be legal. Following trends, I think most objective observers would agree that it is now only a matter of time (<10 years) before the majority believe that unions gays and lesbians should be given same status as marriage. Warren is on the losing side here, people.
Thank God.
HA HA HA....You Obama lovers got what you deserved....I`m glad i voted for McCain .....this administration is going to be a nightmare
Why does there even need to be an invocation? Why does it have to be from a pastor at all? When are we truly going to separate church and state? This choice is ridiculous and hopefully just a move to try to calm some of the religious wrong's nerves that Obama is the Anti-Christ etc. In doing this however, he has alienated a lot of other people who have supported him from the start. I am a Christian; I am Gay; I also value other religious and philosophical teachings. I have studied religions and religions role in government/society extensively for years, so I must correct the people who believe this country was founded on the "Christian" principles that most so-called Christians value today. This country was founded by people who fled a society where religion and government were intertwined because they saw the results. They wanted to worship free of the government's intervention; they wanted to govern free of the church's intervention. What has happened to these ideals? They did not mention "Jesus" or attribute anything to the Judeo Christian God; they simply called on "Providence" for guidance. And references to God are universal, as most of our founding fathers were Universalist, not Protestant.
As a Gay American, I view Obama's choice of Warren as a direct slap in the face; and I must tell him that he will never convince the right wing lunatics that he is a Christian no matter how hard he tries. He can, however, keep the support of ALL those who supported him by rethinking this choice and naming someone else who is in step with today, 2008, to give the "Invocation."
Congrats to all of you that voted for this nutjob, and now see his policies changing just like EVERY other President.
To all of you whom feel Obama's inclusion of this man is a betrayal to the ideals he promised in his campaign: Were you paying attention to the core message? We're all in this together tho' we may not agree on all issues. We need to find common ground to accomplish goalds for the better good. This includes tolerance for those who do not believe as we do ... and working with them, not necessarily against them. Obama's inclusion of someone evangelically conservative may actually advance the agenda for gay rights and abortion by beginning a true, open dialogue. Christ taught tolerance. President-elect Obama is practicing just that, on all playing fields. God bless him and all of us who are in this together (Yep, that means all of us, even James Dobson - you may not agree with him, but it don't help to hate the man – that never changes anything for the good).
When is this going to stop that gay rights, abortion etc is between you and your god. These issues should not be brought to ANY PRESIDENT no matter who they may be. Whatever rights you want should be address to your State Represenatives not the President. I've been raised as a Catholic. But I believe that you as an individual need to make whatever choices you want but the day your number comes up, you will need to face your maker. So leave President Elect Obama alone let him choose whomever he wants whether you agree or not. He has every right like you and me. So grow up......
Although under a "policy of inclusion" there should be a place at the table for people with Mr. Warren’s views, to grant those exclusionary views symbolic leadership of the administration's moral ethic effectively overpowers the voice of LGBT people in other areas of his administration.
If we are indeed included, we should make our voices heard now – Mr. Warren is welcome to participate, but not to lead.
Nice ploy to get Prop 8 back in the limelight. Now, it's being looked at even more. Way to go Barry. I can see through the smoke.
Boo hoo hoo... Obama didn't please the Gay community... I would have loved to see practically the exact same article if Obama had chosen someone who adamantly supports the gay agenda. "Obama continues to push his extreme leftist agenda." Give me a break. Gay people and gay supporters need to get over themselves, because people who used to be sympathetic like me are now just getting annoyed by the constant whining and mockery of our democratic system. Keep pushing it as forcefully as you are and making the biggest scene ever and see if there isn't a backlash...
Obama still cares about gay rights. He just believes the christian right has been too distracted by socially conservative issues, and abandoned the fight against poverty, and the fight for equal opportunity. Getting christians back on track, to what jesus really spoke about, is just more important to him.
As a compromiser, and one who is willing to prioritize, Obama is willing to bring a large socially conservative group into his bigger quest to change America. And he understands what it takes to do this.
As a neocon hard right Republican,ATTA BOY OBAMA!!!, excellent choice!!!
"[It's] shrewd politics, but if anyone is under any illusion that Obama is interested in advancing gay equality, they should probably sober up now," Andrew Sullivan wrote on the Atlantic Web site Wednesday.
Wasn't this guy an Obama supporter? or at least very vocal against Hillary. You got what you elected dear. Enjoy it.
very disappointing barrack.....
and by the way, if religion wants to 'protect marriage" then why do they keep getting divorced, and having affairs..... why not make divorce illegal, so that way no one can get divorced and that way everyone who gets married has to stay married. FOREVER!!! wouldn't that be protecting marriage?
Hey Liberals, we tried to tell you !!
Obama did not come out against Prop. 8 and was silent as gays marched for their rights.
Evidently blacks are the only minority group with rights and Obama sees gays as less than human.
How is this the unity and tolerance president?
He's just another slick politician who was out to get votes.
I too am disturbed. Why even have a religious figure serve in government. Enough of these Christ Cultists and other delusional religious nuts.
God is not dead, he never existed! The sooner we stop the spread of this mental disorder the better off humanity will be.
Warren is the wrong person for the job. Barack wanted to be inclusive, and Warren is just using him. Rick Warren is a Republican and he used Barack by filling his venue with Republicans.
I'm sorry Rick Warren will be speaking. Bad choice for Barack and bad choice for America.
Christians can be progressive and independent and Pastor Rick Warren is in that mold. The left, of which I consider myself a part, needs to stop its own litmus test for contentious issues. As Christians, we must always show Christ's love to my GLBT friends (yes we have them) instead of the scorn they have too often received from the church. That means supporting their rights for equal protection under the law including civil unions and the right to adopt in my opinion and many others. But we cannot go along with those who want to redefine the holy institution of marriage, affirmed by Jesus (see Matthew 19:3-12) when it is clearly not God's intent. Its not intolerant of GLBT rights to simply insist that the issue be only an issue of civil rights and not an attempt to render meaningless, what is considered by many as a sacred institution.
The invocation, big deal; If he picks someone like Warren to sit on the Supreme Court THEN we'll have something to write home about. Get a grip, liberals; this is no big deal.
Who is "outraged"? What a strong word...still not sure it describes anyones true feelings about the choice of Warren. CNN is trying to start something out of nothing...Obama can't win for losing with the media. I am interested in knowing if real journalism is still reality.
Cardron, you have said the truth! The US is made up of many people who do not always agree with everything that everyone says and believes, if Obama is to be a successful president, he will have to involved everyone, whether they voted for him or not. Remember, even though The Smiths didn't vote for Obama, they still will suffer if the economy gets worse. Oh yeah, and if they are able to stay in their home and avoid foreclosure, they still reap the benefits from an Obama administration that they didn't vote for. Food for thought
People it is an invocation. I think the choice is acceptable. PE Obama makes every effort to be inclusive. I do not agree with Mr. Warren but recognize that all perspectives are important. I think his committment to diversity and inclusiveness are the top reasons I voted for him. It is time to come together, even in simple invocation.
Oh why can't Rick Warren just stay in California. He's always hogging the limelight. He doesn't even like Barack, but is using him because there will be such a big audience.
What a damper on the inauguration. Rick Warren is raining on our parade already.
Regarding the issue of gay rights, within a few decades, people who oppose gay equality will be viewed in a similar historical light to the unelightened souls who for centuries opposed equality for minorities and women. Denying homosexuals equality is simply bigotry from any logical perspective. Some day, the Courts either by way of the Equal Protection Clause or Congress through the Commerce Clause, will prohibit states from overtly denying gays the same rights that hetrosexuals are provided.
Regarding the choice of Rick Warren, it is a very disappointing and transparently political choice for Obama.
CHANGE IS ON THE WAY, , , SO THE EXTREME LIBERAL LEFT NEEDS TO PIPE DOWN AND SHUT UP!
From the very beginning Obama was something different. Initially, I had no plans to vote for him. But as time past and as we watched Obama and his campaign team successfully & effortlessly hurdle "multiple campaign-ending obstacles"; we Independents, Moderates, and GOP-skewed Progressives made the switch to Obama-Biden for CHANGE and ONE AMERICA. So the extreme-liberal Left needs to understand Obama-Biden are in the White House but not strictly from the support of the Left. Obama-Biden received significant support from Independents and GOP -Progressives scared out of their wits of Sarah Palin being a heartbeat away from POTUS.
I guess it was nieve to think that when Rick's candidate loss (McCain), Rick would bow out of the picture. I guess that was too much to ask for. Shame.
Obama has no room for gays under his tent....
It is bizarre that a man from one minority would deny the rights of another minority.
How many times did Obama tell us that he was a man of unity and tolerance? Was this the big lie?
Obama is beginning to show us who he really is and it's not pretty.
What is it going to take to get rid of big mouth Rick Warren. Jeesh.
First mistake of Barack's administration–pitty.
PL Obama could have asked Rev. Wright. Pastor Warren is the one of best "service provider" since Billy Graham is retired. May you all have a Merry Christmas and Blessed New Year.-Keep your comments flowing!
im not gay have no opion abount what they do in there lives.
i have a opion abount this scum-bag warren and his room of silence
i m very disapointed in obamas choice there are more honest religions to pick from. very sad
No one could be a bigger supporter of Barack Obama than I, but this is one decision he has made that really upsets me.
This is not about any specific issue for me, it is about picking the easy choice that pleases evangelicals rather than a more traditional minister from his own faith.
President-elect Obama, what are you trying to prove with this one?
And like most presidents he will sneak away in the morning to a black church, but the "real pastor" will be Warren. Too bad a black pastor isn't good enough to speak at the inauguration. Bararck is pandering all ready.
I hate the fact that he asked Rick Warren. That plastic Republican.
YEUP!! how does it go? "Told you so, told you so, told you, told you, TOLD YOU SO!" You all got him into office...I WAS HOPING FOR HILLARY...but OH WELL.. oh well...more disappointments to come im sure...as a "partner/friend" of someone in the military, im not surprised...the gay community shouldnt be surprised as well!!!!!!!!! i dont wanna hear it!!!!
Good for Obama! Who would have thought he could have left Palin behind?
He does try to represent everybody.
Good job!
LOL... this is crazy... I'm a fire breathing liberal but I dontsee anything with the choice. just because their dissagree on some issues that doe mean their can't work together. Rick does many good thing. I just happen to dissagree with hs views on soem socials issues wise up MY FELLOW LIBS...
Obama choice has nothing to do with not advancing gay rights. People forget or are not listening to Obama's message. He has consistantly stated that people can find common ground. Warren and Obama agree on global warming, aids etc, but disagree on social issues. We can't be divided all the time. We can't find someone who we 100% agree with all of the time. so relax.
I'm sorry...I don't understand what the problem is. I am a democratic Christian...and you'd be surprised that a lot of people align themselves up with beliefs like Rick Warren: that abortion is wrong, that marriage is between a man and woman, but that we need to fight against things like poverty, HIV/AIDs, etc. That, really, is the middle of the road position of America. (Just look at California and Prop 8...I thought California was "liberal"....)
WHY IS THE LEFT FREAKING OUT?!?!
President-Elect Obama is asking Pastor Warren to pray at the Inauguration; not to pick Supreme Court Justices. You extreme-Liberal Lefties need to chill your heals.
You stupid liberals always complain when you're left out AND you always complain when others aren't left out. The man can make his own decisions regarding who he wants at his inauguration. I cannot understand why these groups are always trying to subvert everyone's right and ability to make their own decisions and then wonder why nobody has any respect for them.
Always demanding to be heard, but not willing to listen to anyone else.
Obama will be president of all Americans. I don't like the choice but it's hypocritical for me to say he shouldn't be there. Obama amazes me because of the way he's reached out to people who were unfair to him in the past.
I was angry after the Saddleback interview and at the way some people who call themselves evangelical christians subjected Obama to the most unChristian of abuse over the last 2 years, just because they are also Republicans. Now a man from their leadership will have the honor of doing the invocation on January 20th. Anyone who says Obama is not magnamimous is living on another planet.
Obama's candidacy/presidency is about bringing the country together, and that will have to mean compromise and inclusiveness. Just because soemones belief system is different, does not mean you can not find common ground. It's time to come together or we will end up with more of a mess than we are in now, if that is even possible.
Don't you people understand; those of us from Illinois do. Obama is a Chicago politician who promises what he needs to during the campaign and then does what he has to to cement his political base after he's elected.
He'll throw every liberal group under the bus if it serves his needs. Look at all the new agents of change he's named to his cabinet. Let's see, there's ...................................................
Remember the good old days when people had closets to stay in? When sexual orientation was a private matter between consenting adults? I'm heterosexual, but I do not introduce myself as such and people are ok not knowing. As a matter of fact I'm going to be a radical and continue not bringing it up in conversation. I think we ought to reinstitute the closet.
It is truly amazing how those on this forum crying "INTOLERANCE!! against Rick Warren's views are themselves foaming at the mouth with, guess what? INTOLERANCE and HATE SPEECH!! Are these people pretending they did hear Obama's advacacy of inclusion and tolearnce? OR they simply chose to believe the media's label of him as a FAR LEFT LIBERAL!! Get a life folks.
keep your friends close, and your enemies even closer.
think about it.
I don't particularly care for this choice, Rick Warren is not my kind of minister and his church is not my kind of church. However, I do have to agree with the posters that are saying P.E. Obama is trying to be as inclusive as possible. That, especially in these tough times, is very important. I also agree with a fellow commentor on an earlier post that asked why there couldn't have been a more tolerant religious figure, such as a Methodist. So I obviously hold two opposing views in my one brain. The last thought I have regarding the gay and lesbian issue is that I am tired of hearing people say they are asking for "special" rights. No, they are asking for the SAME rights as all other Americans – to adopt, parent, and be married to the person he/she loves. Allowing this does NOT hurt my heterosexual relationships in the least. My loving relationship is NOT threatened by anyone else's love.
Carol – you are CLUELESS! Take another look at Obama's cabinet appointees. There are SEVERAL women, and one is a lesbian. Please be informed before you make an idiot out of yourself...which you do every time you post a comment on these blogs...
Come on people. Obama is trying to be inclusive. It's just a small part of his inauguaration. I am gay and I am not upset, Surprised, though. Sometimes small gestures like this, make a big difference in the future. Unless Warren turns to Old Scratch, himself, on stage, theres really nothing to worry about. You were happy when he appointed his first openly gay to his cabinet. Have you forgotten so soon?
for God's sake, let the man pick who he wants to deliver his invocation, does everything have to be agenda-ized? i know, i'm a homophobe
Will you people get over it, just because Rick Warren does not agree with your lifestyle does not mean your not going to do it anyway,and it certainly does not mean President Obama won't be able to govern effectively just because Rick will speak at the inauguration, there are a lot of issue's in this country to worry about beside one group of people's sexual preference, you should be keeping your sex life behind close door's anyway like most self respecting people do.
Obama is truly tone-deaf to gays and lesbians – this isn't the first time he's done this.
Rev. Wright would have been a much more appropriate pastor, but you know how "divisive" that would appear and how it would offend the bigots.
But he has no problem being "divissive" and offending gays – he doesn't really give a crap if we have to listen to this bigot.
I've canceled my inauguration party – what a downer this is.
ENOUGH ALLREADY.. I HAVE FLOWN THE COOP BIG TIME AS WELL AS MANY OF MY PROGRESSIVE ACTIVISTS FRIENDS AS WELL.. THIS IS NOT THE CHANGE WE WERE LOOKING FOR, A LOT OF US WILL BE SAVING OUR MONEY AND MAKING PLANS TO LEAVE THE COUNTRY WHERE WE WILL BE TREATED WITH THE DIGNITY AND RESPECT WE DESERVE, A LOT OF US ARE NOW ENTERING OUR GOLDEN AGE AND TO BE TREATED LIKE CRAP AFTER ALL WE DID TO GET HIM TO WHERE HE IS TODAY.. HE SHOULD BE ASHAMED OF HIMSELF ! WE ARE NOT GOING DOWN WITH OUT A FIGHT ! FORMER OBAMA SUPPORTER IN WISCONSIN
Do you really think that Obama has an obligation to communities that elected him? He is President of the United States, not your personal President to fulfill all the dreams of a progressive America. America is not progressive it is center right. It is a conservative christian country. That is slowly changing, but that is reality. Obama has to govern. Therefore he needs to show that he is willing to work with all parties in this country to fashion solutions. Anyone who doesn't get that the ship is sinking right now needs more than the paxil that they are taking to deal with the collective social anxiety of a self-destructing economy. We are in such trouble, and it is actually quite visionary that Obama realizes that he will need the Rick Warrens of this country to get the job done. I think that most liberals who are moaning right now thought that Obama was cynically trying to get republican and independent votes during the election. Well guess what, he really believes in fashioning an america that includes red and blue states. Out of all the people at Barack's inauguration who do believe in gay marriage, not Barack in fact, he believes in civil unions, there will be one who is outspoken against gay marriage. Welcome to America.
I think it is HILARIOUS that the lady in the article described her views on gay marriage and abortion as "mainstream". HA! What a joke.
Rick Warren is very much in line with mainstream Christianity.
I didn't vote for Obama and he still makes me nauseous BUT this choice is A-OK in my book....plus, its fun to see all the far lefties get their panties in a bunch over stuff like this.
Obama couldve picked someone like extreme
When will the Liberal learn to stop whinning! You wanted so badly to have a Democrat in the white house, now that you do apart from whinning,what are you doing now that you have the chance to help. Rather than, Oh Obama pick Clintonite, so you say is the return of the Clinton, so what? They are democrat or not? Please stop already, this is getting old, its like that old song all over again, it remind me of the Clinton years, when Liberal help return the power to the GOP. Bite Bush for the damage he did to America and around the world not Obama, he as enough mess to deal with already, don't add more mess to his plate. He needs your prayer not your should't could't.
Do you think he was joking when he said there is no blue America or red America or do you think he joking when he said there is no Liberal or a Conservative America. Get real people! Obama is making good on his word and I for one give him a standup for that.
For all you people who thought that by voting Obama you were getting a reformed politician, we've been proven wrong once again, I should've voted McCain/Palin, at lease I would've known what I was getting!
This is a bad pick. No ultra liberal here but I strongly object to this choice.
If this is any indication of who Obama really is, then we Americans have been duped.
Another politician who said anything to be elected.
And this is the change we voted for in Novemeber?
Some of the postings I am seeing here are far more hypocritical than those ideals that Christianity has been accused of. Christianity says that if you refuse to accept certain tennants of faith, you give up the promise of life everlasting. You should come to accept a way of life also, to show your faith to those around you.
Those of you who supported Barak Obama and who gave so generously to his campaign, were also giving your faith that he had the intelligence to wisely run this country. Now in one of his very first decisions, you want to condemn him and call to question his wisdom, anyone else starting to see some good old fashioned two faced attitudes? You can't have your cake and eat it too.
Maybe those of you who are so busy whining and complaining about the hard work and money you invested in getting him elected should remain silent long enough allow him to actually start making some decisions that will make a difference on way or another. Or to quote an outside source, "Ponder these things in your heart."
I thought things were going to be different. Rick is the same phony he's always been. He really, really likes George Bush. How can the same man stomach Barack. I'll tell you how, because he's a phony.
I don't care if Warren doesn't have left ideals and values. I care that he's the biggest phony. If you're a Republican and you're speaking for the right, then speak for the right and stay away from our inaugural.
One rule, no liars on the stage.
I must admit that I am not there yet with this choice, but I concede to the fact that God is wherever two or three gather in his name. P-E Obama is forgiving, and attempting to be inclusive, I hope and pray that everybody will stop harping on non-issues and move on.
Dissapointing – Wright, Pfleger and now Warren. Ugh -
WOW...just WOW..
I get it so everyone has to be tolerant and repect you're lifestyles but you're not obligated to return in kind?!?
So Obama embraces a Christian and now you fly of the handle? Did you people not listen to anything this man said durring the primaries and general campaign? He is a christian but is all for Gay rights. However he believes Marrage should remain a union between a man and woman.
The vast majority of this country agrees as do I. You left wing crazies scare me about as much as the Right wingers. Good lord were is common sense these days?!?
Another attemp for Rick Warren to become relevent, he's not.
So, once again, we have been rejected, and I had such hope for Obama.
After all these years, I knew I should have kept that cyncial shell intact, but noooo, well it just snapped shut, and as far as politicians are concerned, forever!
So gays "helped elect Obama," Big freaking deal!
So did millions of other people. Imagine if every group that 'helped elect Obama" expected their own little special treatment.
Last time I checked, Obama is not president of gay people, just as he is not president of black people or jewish or disabled or blue states or purple states. When he makes decision, he does not sit down and ponder what the gay community will think.
Obama is president-elect of the United States of America. Please, people!
I get that Obama is trying to be inclusive, but when will he start including progressives? Obama himself is centrist and his cabinet is tilting decidedly Center-Right. This is Change I can believe in?
I'm not a left wing wacko, but I think Warren is a poor choice. He wants to be the pastor of the presidents. First you have to like minorities, and he doesn't.
Thank you NC Obama Supporter!
People, get over it! Focus on the cabinet. Warren will say a prayer and go back home,
Neither Rick Warren or Rev. Wright are good choices. They are both polar opposites. We need someone in the middle, and Rick Warren is not that person. This was huge mistake.
To hometowndemocrat..You are the one that needs to speak to your minister and read your Bible.
Well, the honeymoon is over.
This is why so many gays an lesbians preferred Hillary. What a slap in the face from Obama. Rick Warren compares homosexuality to incest and pedophilia. If Obama wants to pray with someone like that I really question his commitment to equality.
Shame on Obama.
This statement,
should instead have been given to someone who is "consistent mainstream American values.
is just dumb.
I can't believe a poster actually defends Obama having named "a few" women to the cabinet. A few? Can you imagine if Hillary had won and named "a few" men to her cabinet? And whose this lesbian cabinet person you're talking about? Are your referring to Janet Napolitano? She has never come out as a lesbian so you must be referring to someone else. And so what if he has a lesbian in his cabinet? If Bush had asked a racist to speak at his inaugural would it have mattered that Condi Rice was in his cabinet?
Myrna,
What's your address? I'd really like to contribute to your efforts of taking a bunch of your liberal activists and leave the country. I am fairly sure that you don't have enough friends to make a difference one way or the other however, so nevermind.
I actually go to this church and the one thing Rick Warren preached is respect for all. From what I see some people need to really hear and know what this man is about before tearing him down. When you have facts and actual teaching from this person then maybe you should state an informative opinion. Not something that is ignorant or intolerant. If anything, Rick warren is a tolerant and respectful man, I may not always agree with him but I respect him.
This is why the rest of the world is so amused by us. We get our undies all in a bunch over ever silly detail.
Look at the big picture. Obama is picking a stellar cabinet. Don't like every pick? Fine. But overall, it's stellar.
Think Obama's moving to the center? Then you never knew him. He's always been a centrist. Read "Audacity of Hope". No, I don't think writing a book qualifies someone to be president. But it gives a fascinating glimpse into the mind of our next president. And he's a centrist and a pragmatist. The guy can get things done.
This is where the press makes idiots out of us – by making every story such a big deal. Don't jump on every detail that comes out. Just let it ride for awhile before you jump to conclusions. Cool, calm, and collected. Like Obama.
I'm not a fan of Warren's ... but Obama is trying to be inclusive and who knows? Maybe inviting the intolerant to the table will give them a chance to learn that progressives aren't that bad after all.
BTW, here's my interpretation of the Bible: God (or whatever you call your Higher Power) created everyone, of all colors, creeds, ethnic backgrounds and sexual orientation – we are all God's children! God's big enough to love and accept us all – maybe we should all try to be a little more God-like in our treatment and acceptance of each other.
Who is Obama???While running for the election,who ever you wanted him to be.Now that he has been elected the president,whoever he wants to be.
I hate the fact that Barack feels he has to be aminable to people who don't like him, such as Rick Warren. He's the biggest phony America, don't believe him for one minute. Barack is the real deal, Rick Warren is not.
Ru-pal was not available, so get over it, bow your heads and pray to God like the rest of America. Besides, he will be in a cone of silence!
Obama is a lawyer and a politician both. (TWO STRIKES) If his mouth is moving he is lying too. As long as the term marriage is used to mean a man and a woman as it has been since written history and written religion, the government should not desecrate my religion by making me accept a sin as being a marriage. Give them all the civil rights my wife of 25 years and I have but do not steal a word from the religions of the world and dictate to the vast majority that you are right and religion is wrong!
I really do not know why there is so much fussing and whining on the far left and some on the far right. Obama's choice of Rick Warren is just his choice for the prayer to give to Obama. It is not like he is replacing Joe Biden as VP. Obama is proving himself to be a centrist. This shows that his promise during his campaign to be bi-partisan is coming into actions. He is talking the talk already. So again those of you on the left and right who are mumbling and groaning about this, really need to find something better to do. God bless Obama and the US.
PS: I am 18 and I have centrist views myself. America should not be divided over this little issue. Remember the quote that you guys hear so many times: "So help me God."
This is not a signal of inclusion by Obama. Having Warren give the invocation at the inaugural is a clear sign that lesbians and gays will remain a low priority across the body politic. Having any religion represented on this occasion is dead wrong.
I really do not know why there is so much fussing and whining on the far left and some on the far right. Obama's choice of Rick Warren is just his choice for the prayer to give to Obama. It is not like he is replacing Joe Biden as VP. Obama is proving himself to be a centrist. This shows that his promise during his campaign to be bi-partisan is coming into actions. He is talking the talk already. So again those of you on the left and right who are mumbling and groaning about this, really need to find something better to do. God bless Obama and the US. Peace.
PS: I am 18 and I have centrist views myself. America should not be divided over this little issue. Remember the quote that you guys hear so many times: "So help me God."
Very dumb move. This guy represents the greedy, ugly side of American Religion. I wouldn't even want him there.
For those who are displeased with Obama's plans to unite the country, I have some advice: Grow UP! Haven't we had enough of the divisive policies and exclusionary politics? Our country will never heal if we continue to focus on what divides us instead of what unites us. If you want the country to continue on the destructive downward spiral, it really makes no difference who sits in the Oval Office. The politics of hatred has got to stop or we will self-destruct.
This is the vary best-I was wondering who the liberals and dems were going to vent their attacks at, and on after Bush was gone.It appears you are going to hate each other,good,I was tired of the bashing of republicans and conservatives.You guys really need to learn some tolerance ,you are so bias .
It amazes me that the GLBT community is getting upset about the Obama choice for the religious leader who will say the Invocation. I would think they would be more upset that PE Obama hasn't named an GLBT individual to a cabinet position. The reality is the NOBODY remembers who says the Invocation.
Independent Fred, yes they did listen to him. "Change." "Hope." "Inspiration." Was there more? Oh, right: "Yes we can!" So you did. Allow me to get with the political program. MIND-LESS-CHANT! MIND-LESS-CHANT! MIND-LESS-CHANT! Seriously, after all I heard (and hope is true) about inclusion, acceptance and unity, I'm amazed that people are so upset.
I am outraged that during a time of Gay/Lesbians pursuing equal rights that Obama had little thought of how divisive this choice was. I will not be watching the Presidential inauguration. To those who think we are whining " you have all your constitutional rights" so you have no room to comment.
There are plenty of Pastors he could have chosen, I guess it is time to open our eyes to whom we have elected.
Obama staff is just like the rest of the politicians. Make your excuses.
Duh Shane, California is showing greater support for marriage equality than it ever did in 2000. Don't suppose they teach you that kind of history in NC, though, huh?
it is only the invocation people, only the invocation....you are all outraged at obama for this but yet support his choice of having a lesbian serve on his cabinet team?
this sounds right.....get over it, again a non-issue for this gay man. Obama still has my full support, you can't please everyone, grow up.
What the h is an "invocation" anyway? Is it like a "conjuring"?
So Obama said a nut could handle a supernatural magic trick. Who cares what this actor/performer/conjurer/magician does? He's not touching the economy, health care, the constitution, or energy policy after all....
Besides, they can't represent EVERYBODY'S faith, right?
Show of hands- NOW who thinks separation of church and state is a good idea?
This is odd. Obama has never ever said he supports gay marriage but you seem to be surprised that he invited a pastor who speaks against it? Why did the gay community openly support Obama. I honestly think you would have made more progress with McCain. Oh well you continue to drink the Democratic "big tent" Kool-aid and you get what you deserve. There are plenty of gay republicans for a reason.
C'mon CNN –play nice:
"Indeed, lost in the hubbub about Warren, is the fact that the man tasked with overseeing the benediction is a icon within progressive politics. Rev. Joe Lowery, a hero of the civil rights movement and co-founder of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference with Martin Luther King famously called out President George W. Bush during Coretta Scott King's funeral. He also is a supporter of same-sex marriage. But he is not garnering the same attention as Warren for his inauguration role.. " –Huffinfton Post
Sigh. Fair AND Balanced. Remember?
Independent Fred: You hit the hammer right on the nail with your comment. Ultra-liberals, like the ultra conservatives, are so intolerant other other citizens "point of views". Thank God we have a centerist president again who will worek for ALL. Fin.. .
Thanks Obama for making "reaching across party lines" more than a slogan so far!
Amazing...just amazing. Now that President-Elect Obama has not gone lock step into the far left...they hurl the same type of invectives as they do to everyone they hate. It's amazing that people are expected to be tolerant of "their" views while wanting to severely restrict the views of others that don't seen their way...sounds to me like the same shoe for both sides.
An openly gay man, here.
Its a prayer for heavens sake, People get over it,
Yes, I do think that Obama is trying to reach all people.
Let the man alone.....
Pastor Rick Warren is very wonderful and has divine insight. Gay advocates need to get a grip. They need to know that the world doesn't revolve around them. They need to be willing to accept other points of view, even if they don't agree with them.
1. I vote for Obama
2. I am lifelong liberal
3. I am a lifelong atheist
And... I am perfectly fine, even applaud this decision by Obama. What's more, I hope he actually follows through and works with Warren for the purpose of fighting poverty and aids for the disadvantaged. I generally disagree with 90 percent of what Evangelicals stand for, but that doesn't mean we can't work together on the elements that move us both. When Obama said he was going to reach across the ail in the spirit of bipartasanship, what did you think he meant? That he'd pull a Bush, talk the talk, and then tell everyone "you are either with me or against me" the day after his innaugeration? That ship has sailed.
Even though we Democrats have the house, the executive branch, and the majority of the senate, we don't have 60 senate seats and we're not going to get nearly as much done if we don't give a little to the other side. Will he allow Warren to dictate his perception to women's issues and the rights of homosexuals? Of course not. He's just trying to find common ground, and this gesture is an indication that Obama is putting his actions where his mouth is. What a breath of fresh air.
It's called bi-partisanship. Warren is not the only speaker.
I am appalled at this choice. I am so tired of politicians promising change and the old addage proves true.. "the more things change, the more they remain the same."
Well the GLBT community has been put on notice. Thanks for your votes, time and money during the election. Your reward is to have someone like Warren given such prominence and legitimacy as a spokes person for the religious right. Yes there is a delicious irony that one of the leaders who oppresses the GLBT community and did not support Obama gets to move to the front of the line. Ok Ok we will let you have a little band in the parade to placate those crazy activists demanding equal rights.
Ok time for the GLBT community to regroup for 2012. Forget supporting or voting for any presidential candidate (including Obama) and just focus on local, state and congressional elections. I am sure the time, money and the millions of votes that the GLBT community delivered to Obama are not important in the political calculations that went into the selection of Warren. By the way all of you who spent time campaigning for Obama instead of supporting the defeat of Proposition 8 in California probably feel pretty stupid now!
Hey maybe Obama will reach out to members of the Aryan nation and neo-nazi parties? I thought not. I wonder why? Oh thats right you cannot discriminate against Blacks, Jews, Moslems their rights are not negotiable but the GLBT community is fair game.
The GLBT community needs to understand this choice? Hmm interesting so I am supposed to show understanding to those that seek to deprive me of my civil rights and incite homophobia?
As a gay man I guess I am not that good a Christian...but hey neither is Warren.
some of you are lost.
That's awful. Boo Obama, for making a choice that directly contradicts what the vast majority of your supporters want to have set the tone for your inauguration! *We're* the ones who worked so hard to get you elected, giving it heart and soul, so why are you throwing a bone to the ultra conservative types who think like Palin? Count me as disappointed. I know you're trying to be the epitome of fair-mindedness, but your inauguration is supposed to be a celebration of OUR views over the 8 years of Bush views that have been inflicted on us most painfully, to the visible detriment of the country.
I believe in you though. Perhaps you will have Rick Warren address the commonalities between the conservatives and the rest of us. That would be nice, to hear how we have to come together to defeat poverty, hunger, and AIDS. Here's hoping. But if he (Warren) so much as breathes a word about the sins of homosexuality or equating a woman's right to choose with the Holocaust, then he's gonna find a bunch of shoes tossed his way.
Can somebody please tell me what Minister would have been considered acceptable? Obama is a Christain, and wanted a minister HE KNEW to give the prayer.
Can anyone protesting his decision please name 5 Christain ministers that personally share your belief on Gay Marriage?
The sad part is that you guys are fighting the wrong fight. You should be arguing that religious belief should not be allowed to be written into the constitution. No one can make a case against Gay Marriage without referring to their values which are derived fromt their religious beliefs.
You should argue that the only reason a person or group should be restricted from a right afforded to the majority is if that restriction is in society's best interest. You should force the opponents of Gay Marriage to show tangible proof of the "damage" they claim it causes.
This is the easiest arguement to win, simply because your opponent has no defense not based on religion.
Since it's tradition to have an invocation given, and since it's tradition to have it given by someone qualified (a minister), and since Obama believes in God (as Rev. Wright can attest) and since it's HIS invocation, shouldn't he be allowed to chose whom he will? If you've got to up in front of Jehovah and swear to a thing, such as getting married (regardless of who to, but since God doesn't dig gay people that might be kind of wrath-incurring), wouldn't you want to pick who did it? (I chose a presbyterian minister, although I'm not presbyterian) Has anyone with a radical opinion ever watched West Wing? I'mnot too politically savvy, but I haven't a problem with a single pick (except a personal problem here and there) because he's a smart guy (which is why we voted for him, not for who he likes, right?) and he is packing a powerhouse and Warren, like someone said, isn't up for Religious minister! lmao
He is going to say a prayer. That's it. What is the big deal? I figured the atheists would have more beef with this then the gay/lesbian movement. Pick your battles wisely, this isn't anything that won't be forgotten a week after it happens.
Quote, "Wow, this is truly shocking. First Obama names an almost entirely male cabinet. Now he stabs the gay community in the back."
Well I guess Hillary Clinton, Susan Rice, Gov. Napolitano, all don't count as women!!
Myrna Ulrich-
Hope you have your bags packed already. Obama is the most tolerant president in this lifetime, and yes, even over Clinton. One thing you disagree with and you want to leave the country? Hate to break it to you baby but Obama isn't going to pick a leader based completely on gay/lesibian issues- there are many other factors involved. I'm all for gay/lesbian rights but like Independent Fred said, the majority of the country doesn't see this as a big deal. Just be happy Obama doesn't completely try to amend the Constitution and dissolve civil unions; just think, it could be worse?
i am liberal on certain issues and conservative on others. In essence my political views are confused. I don't see what the issue is with this. First according to the constitution (the highest law) we have the right to express any religious beliefs we see fit.
I don't care what religion this man preaches. What would everyone do if this man was a Rabbi giving an invocation at the inauguration? an Imam? and the aethists out there you have to believe in something otherwise the essence of religion is gone.
Secondly the legal definition of marriage makes a gay/lesbian marriage hard. The reasoning is it is a legal contract to reproduce. Plain and simple.
So it is not for us to deciede what is right and wrong. We are all instilled with some values in our lives. Yet with the country in turmoil and the economy crumbling everyone is crying because an evangelical is giving an invocation? Who would everyone want? Rev Wright? Imagine that firestorm.
Finally I am very liberal on social issues. Yet I have no qualms with this at all. I mean I work for a company where the owner thinks Bush and all the neo-Cons are the best thing since sliced bread. We can work together and I am and always have been staunchly against Bush. Come On people think with Logic and Reason and not emotion.
It is extremely disappointing for the African American president elect, who got a tremendous amount of support from the gay community, and who marginally opposed proposition 8, and other hatefull discriminatory legislation, to now pick a religious leader who further promotes anti gay sentiment to "bless" his presidency. Our support of his candidacy already cost us losses for our civil rights. Now he further alienates himself from our civil rights cause by accepting the religious bigot as part of his celebration. Gay people will not be celebrating as wholeheartedly as we would have liked to have been, had he truly stood for civil rights that as an African American he somehow now feels he has accomplished. He is leaving gay people in the dust of his ride to the white house. Shame on him. Inclusiveness should not mean capitulation to those who deny civil rights to all Americans.
There are PLENTY of true christians he could have picked who don't have a history of comparing the protection of basic privacies for homosexual families to encouraging pedophilia and beastiality.
I am shocked and appalled at this choice of a hate monger to give an invocation that should be about inclusion and acceptance. AND NO, pointing out someone's active attacks of an entire group of our citizens is not "intolerance." That's like calling someone intolerant for not wanting to hear Hitler speak. Suggesting that everyone needs to embrace every ideology of hate in order to be "tolerant" of different views is idiotic.
@ Larry December 17th, 2008 10:44 pm ET
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Read your post, not a bad one. Just one suggestion:
Your hate and despise for your fellow americans is unhealthy and unpatriotic.
You really need to learn some tolerance.
Cheers
I lean rather far to the left, but I applaud Obama's choice. I see exactly what he's doing. He wants us ALL to share in this political rebirth of our nation. The left and right must come together.
Obama doesn't care about LGBT people. Period. End of story. This has always been the case, will always be the case. Wake up people, you were all duped!
I feel like I have just been kicked in the stomach. This is change we can believe in? Obama has betrayed me and millions of others gays and lesbians throughout this country.
I hope we gather at the inauguration and make our voices heard - we must drown out these fundamentalist extremists bigots gunning for us and demand our civil rights!
I didn' t vote for Obama, but I'm starting to like him more and more as I see how he's able to piss off the hard left.
Tell me why churches dont have to pay taxes?Anyone?Please.
How very disappointed that our leader would choose someone that is filled with so much hate against those that don't fit his narrow views. I'm really disappointed on Obama for so quickly forgetting the people that stood beside him and helped him get into office. So much for change...as usually we at the bottom only get short changed.
Pastor Warren will be performing the invocation at the January 20, 2009 Presidential Inauguration. End of story.
Anyone who is angered by this needs to take some time and think about it. This country is a lot better off when people work together on things they agree on in spite of other issues in which they disgree.... that's what will fix this country. If you refuse to work with someone on ANYthing b/c you dont agree with them on SOME things, you will miss opportunities to make things better...when politicians do it, it hurts this country. IF this is a sign of how Obama will run this country, then I promise you things will only be better in years to come. Liberals (and I am one) preach tolerance of those with different beliefs, and what could be better than tolerance by the President.
I find it amusing all the gay activists on this page claiming that Obama owes his victory to them. Please tell us which states Obama would have lost without the gay vote? California? Hmmm, don't think so. How about Virginia? Hmm, nope.
Get over yourselves. You have no ability to affect presidential elections.
Get a grip people! It's not like Warren is running the country or taking over your life! It's just the invocation.....a prayer that will only take a minute or two. That's it. Many of you that are griping are not even going to the inauguration....and you probably won't look at it on tv either.
This is Obama's party.....he can have whomever he wants. We the people voted him in there.....that's it...
He will be there for 4 years, we will not all agree on everything that he does....so just chill!...Please!
Rick Warren represents the TRUTH of GODs WORD (The Bible). Gays are sinners just like the rest of us. GOD loves the sinners, but hates the sin. JESUS died for our sin, but does not mean we should go on sinning. GOD called Rick Warren to teach the TRUTH. If people don't like like TRUTH, they should take it up with GOD and not Rick Warren. Keep in mind, GOD wins every time. Ask GOD to help you understand and he'll set you free. He set me free 12 years ago and I'll never be the same. SEEK GOD and you will find his love, forgiveness and TRUTH. JESUS is the greatest GIFT. Merry Christmas.
Butch Dillon December 17th, 2008 10:32 pm ET
I'm an Obama supporter, and I also support all forms of marriage...of legal age. But in all honesty, gay and lesbians right to marry, SHOULD be at the bottom of the list of priorities, right there alongside my marriage, when it comes to leading this nation and getting us out of the mess we are in.
No offense intended, but we really need to get over ourselves and look at the big picture when it comes to our nation. Let your local politicians, from state on down, worry about your right to marry.
Obama has just as much right 2 choose who delivers his invocation as u do 2 b gay. Obama has done a standup job so far in his preparation 2 b president, and we should all be proud 2 call this man our potus. I love all ppl and I think obama does 2 this in no way indicates tht obama will not be supportive of gay rights. Get over urselves
I still love Obama. Stop freaking out people. The pudgy bible-thumper will slink back to his snake-handling friends after Jan. 20 and we'll all get over it. This is not a statement by Obama to the GLBT community . . .
The inclusion of Warren at this historic inauguration says volumes about who Obama REALLY is, and I am extremely disturbed by it!! Warren is a hateful bigot whose presence is inappropriate for a function that is meant to include ALL Americans, including the gays that Warren despises. There are plenty of other religious figures that could have been asked (and I do not agree that religion SHOULD be a part of this ceremony!!) so the only reason that is possible is that Obama is now pandering to the religious right. That frightens me since we have seen how Nazi-like many of the neocons can be during the Bush administration. My opinion of Obama has changed DRASTICALLY with this unfortunate and divisive choice.
TO THE LGBT AMERICANS,MY HEART GOES OUT TO YOU,I PRAY THAT THE MEDICAL PROFESSION WILL FIND A WAY TO DETECT THE CHEMICAL IMBALANCE IN YOUR BRAINS BECAUSE STRAIGHT CHRISTIANS AMERICANS ARE TRYING TO UNDERSTAND WHY YOU INSIST ON BEING "GAY/LESBIAN/CROSS GENDER", SCIENTIST HAVE YET TO DISCOVER THAT THIS IS A "SICKNESSS" THAT YOU CANNOT AND HAVE GIVEN UP ON TRYING TO CONTROL.., AS I HAVE STATED TO MY GAY FRIEND WHO IS NO LONGER MY FRIEND.* GO BACK IN THE CLOSET AND TAKE THE HOLY BIBLE WITH YOU * DON'T COME OUT UNTIL YOU'VE FINISHED READING AND TALKING WITH GOD..( JUST A SUGGESTION....
Thank you Jesus! There is some hope for this country and this presidency after all.
TO BILL CHRISTIAN....WE NEED MORE PEOPLE LIKE YOU ON THIS PAGE..TO YOUR COMMENT;AMEN ! AMEN !