WASHINGTON (CNN) - Another major American industry is asking for assistance as the global financial crisis continues: Hustler publisher Larry Flynt and Girls Gone Wild CEO Joe Francis said Wednesday they will request that Congress allocate $5 billion for a bailout of the adult entertainment industry.
“The take here is that everyone and their mother want to be bailed out from the banks to the big three,” said Owen Moogan, spokesman for Larry Flynt. “The porn industry has been hurt by the downturn like everyone else and they are going to ask for the $5 billion. Is it the most serious thing in the world? Is it going to make the lives of Americans better if it happens? It is not for them to determine.”
Francis said in a statement that “the US government should actively support the adult industry's survival and growth, just as it feels the need to support any other industry cherished by the American people."
“We should be delivering [the request] by the end of today to our congressmen and [Secretary of the Treasury Henry] Paulson asking for this $5 billion dollar bailout,” he told CNN Wednesday.
Flynt and Francis concede the industry itself is in no financial danger — DVD sales have slipped over the past year, but Web traffic has continued to grow.
But the industry leaders said the issue is a nation in need. "People are too depressed to be sexually active," Flynt said in the statement. "This is very unhealthy as a nation. Americans can do without cars and such but they cannot do without sex."
"With all this economic misery and people losing all that money, sex is the farthest thing from their mind. It's time for congress to rejuvenate the sexual appetite of America. The only way they can do this is by supporting the adult industry and doing it quickly."
So far, there has been no congressional reaction to the request.
–CNN’s Chloe Melas contributed to this report
From CNN Politics
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Now this is getting ridiculous. That's an industry that can go under and no one would lose any sleep over it.
Thanks for making me run to the Calendar .......thought it was April 1st for a minute!
Are you kidding me? I mean seriously, people do not have food, shelter, clothing, work, health insurance or transportation; yet these morons have the nerve to ask for federal aid? Here is a suggestion, ask Bush for it, I am sure he has money rolling out of his pockets for his illegal war in Iraq!
OMG is this a joke?
lol HILARIOUS
Weirdly, he makes more sense than all the politicians and media people put together.
ROTFLMAO! Too funny. Wow.
So porn is as important as CARS? I'll let other commenters answer that.
Hmmm maybe some of those wives wouldn't be so depressed if hubby didn't have a porn addiction!!
Finally! a bailout that will at least give us some relief.
Ha ha ha!
Change you can believe in..
ONLY IN AMERICA! GIVE ME A BREAK!
Opra! When your Sad... When your Fat... When you use other Females to get Rich,.... Opra gave nothing, that she did not take from someone Else.... Just Another Free-Loader....
Oh this is sooo funny. you all know what.....I want a $5 Billion bailout. I'm asking congress. I m hurting from this crisis too!!
LOL
This is a joke, right??? Stupid request. The pimps should manage their finances better.
Would be nice if they go under
????? you'd think that this would be an industry that would be relatively "safe". People using it as a stress reliever of sorts.
On a related note, Bill Clinton whipped out his checkbook and said, "How can I help?"
Hey – if CitiBank can get a truck load of cash in the middle of the night, no questions asked, why not Larry Flint?!?
Now, this is Comedy!!
Let the porn industry die. This is one of the best news ever. If the government bails them out with any amount, this country will be dammed by God.
Is this CNN or Fark? This has to be a joke!?
Idiocy. Pure idiocy.
???? you'd think this industry would be relatively "safe" from the ailing economy with people turning to this industry as a form of "stress" relief.
LOLOLOLOLOLOL
I suppose Larry Flynt would argue that some of the porn stars are "too big to fail..."
Ok, this is classic. I actually applaud them for putting in their request. While I would in no way support them being given a bail out it's a great way to make a very valid point. I think it is a sarcastic way of making a statement. I firmly feel this is being done as patriotic duty to show the lunacy of the government in handing out all this money to the incompetent criminals running the companies that are in need of bail outs.
They don't believe they will get a bail out, it's their way of saying "Stop bailing out morons who don't know how to run a business".
Wow...just Wow...
LORD, HAVE MERCY ON THE SOULS OF THIS EVIL GOVERNMENT IF THEY GIVE A BAILOUT TO THIS OUTFIT. tHEYre sick and if we give them a baiilout we are sick too. I had rather see all of our money if we had any to spare go to any other ovil outfit such as Hamas of the Iraq outlaws. At leaset they would not be of our people like this sick outfit is. Get a break, porno dirt, Larry Flynt.. We have laws against porno so why shoulkd we tax payers have to pay for this piece of dirt's problems. they are the ones who work to make life miserable for those who are against porno. Take that and bail out
Well, well...what do we have here? The porn industry asking for help?? First of all, I have a couple of questions and no, is not your sexual ambitions...
Did California tax you guys? Because if they didn't, I'll be ticked off. Second, Congress is not a place to look for "pleasure" is a place for business(at least, that's how is portrayed) . And I don't know if they wanna pay you for...well, you know, this.
Boy, you guys sure are horny people...
Why not Larry this is a vital part of human life. Way to go.
How many "moralistic thought police" Republicans are gonna support this one???
Sure, why not! We knew everyone would be lining up with hat in hand, so try to leave room for astonishment here.
It had to happen .I love it.
YOU GOT TO BE KIDDING. PORN IS TRASH... SO OOO- THERE MY ANSWER. INTO THE TRASH YOU GO.. AND STAY THERE.
I hope this is a joke. If not, I just can not believe what this world has gotten into.
Now I would support this. I say give them what they want and no oversite. Let's show the world what's really important to Americans.
Are you kidding me? Please tell me this is not even possible.
Why not, we have already been screwed by the automakers and I like porn better than I like Chryslers
OMFG! Are you KIDDING ME?? ROFLMAO!!! The mainstream media should have a field day with this one!!! HAHAHAHAHAHAHA!!!
Is this how you Pimp the Government?
One would think porn would be the only industry unaffected by the economic crisis.
with their fringe benefits they don't deserve a bailout.
This will make more sense than anthing else that has come out of the Bush Admin.
is bailout a joke?. some people are trying to steal money from the government.
RealityKing January 7th, 2009 1:58 pm ET
Change you can believe in..
--------------------------------
Don't go there, idiot, this has nothing to do with Obama.
Joe Francis said "...Is it going to make the lives of Americans better if it happens? It is not for them to determine.”...
I think that is the very nature and purpose of congress and our federal government; to do those things that protect, preserve and make better the lives of all Americans from the national perspective.
The porn industry is not a necessity. Bail funds should only be used for industries that are a necessity and only in ways that would make them more efficient and viable again. The financial bailout was a scam and their should be an immediate demand for repayment. That would cause all those that part took of it to increase their profit margins are be taken over by the Federal Banks and all their executive salaries gone. As a result they will get back to their business – loaning money and providing secure financial instruments.
I think porn is horrible, degrading, and damaging...that said, I think this was absolute brilliance by porn industry leaders, since it highlights the absurdity of these government bailouts ("we want small government–until we need a handout for our big corporate friends!")
This is funny and why not? No one should have been bailed out. Larry is not out of line with this request.
HERE HERE! Finally some sense is being made. It should be part of any stimulus package.
Unbelievable. I'm a Christian Democrat who would love to see the porn industry die.
Reality King at 1:58pm:
Oh, please. If Obama personally writes the check, then you can blame him.
I wish the Federal Government would! I freakin' wish they would bail them! Here's my congressional reaction to the request: use the "all fives".
YOU MUST BE JOKING?????????
So now the government is a trick
At least the porn industry seems to have better leadership than the auto industry lol
@ Anonymous
Sarah Palin is trash. Leave Larry Flynt alone !
GO GET EM LARRY!
Maybe if so many wives didnt let themselves go barb their husbands woudn't have a porn addiction...and porn makes more money than cars newport so just becaue you dont like it doesnt mean a lot of other folks wouldnt be bummed..no pun
I love it. It's an industry just like anything else. I can't wait to see Congress' response to this!
The banks got bailed out because they couldn't grant a decent loan.
The automakers got bailed out because they couldn't make a decent car.
The porn industry gets bailed out because they can't produce decent porn.
I support this and am willing to volunteer my services.
GO FOR IT MR Larry Flynt and Girls Gone Wild CEO Joe Francis EVERYBODY NEED HELP, YOU NEED A BAIL OUT ALSO. Congress NEEDS TO allocate $5 billion for a bailout of the adult entertainment industry.
Absolutely. I'm confident that the porn industry will know how to manage a forceful infusion of liquidity.
THIS IS ONE BAILOUT THAT SHOULD DEFINITELY SAILOUT.
If sales are increasing online... how could you say that people's desires are lowering?
I guess pimping ain't easy, after all.
Flynt knows liberals are in complete control...
Are you flipping kidding me!
This is the most ridiculous thing I have read today.
I must say some of these comments are more rediculus than this story.
PORN: Its worse than terrorism.
lol
Obama and comrades must come forward on Jan 21 and inform the nation that: "DONT EVEN THINK OF ASKING FOR A BAILOUT BECAUSE THE BAILOUT BUCKET BOTTOM FALL OUT".
This bailout thing is getting so ridiculous.
You have got to be kidding me!!!
This has got to be a joke.
This makes just as much sense as the banks, insurance and the autos!
I don't know which is funnier.
The fact that Flynt and that "Girls Gone Wild" sleazebag asked for the bailout, knowing full well, they weren't going to get it but making their point about the "bailout" mania.
Or
The folks on this site who are taking it so seriously as to get their "moral outrage" worked up into a full blown rant.
It's clear that Flynt got just the reaction he was looking for.
And both are pretty hilarious.
LET THE SO-CALLED STARS DO THE PORN BAILOUT. IF ALL AMERICANS DID LIKE ME ALL STARS WILL BE LEFT TO DRY. I DO NOT SUPPORT ANY MOVIE.
Typical Democrats......
If this isn't a joke its better than throwing an orange at the government like he did at the judge in the movie.
Hahaha....but on a second note...why not? The CEO's of big corporations did more to screw up our economy than Larry Flynt ever will...but this is funny....
Woody Harrelson sure has gotten ugly.
Look at that face...its got Porn CEO written allll over it!
If the government doesn't go through with this bailout, plumbers and delivery drivers will face massive layoffs.
MITE AS WELL , FOR WHAT WAS THE PERCENTAGE OF THAT STIMULAS PACKAGE, THERE WAS ONE QUOTE THAT 65% OF THAT MONEY WENT ON XXX RATED VIDIEO STORES.
I think this makes for great political satire. Bush, Paulson, and now Obama have treated bailouts and random ideas (marketed at simulus) as a free for all. So, why not Larry Flynt?
Obviously, no bailout for porn but perhaps this will open the eyes of Americans to the pitfalls of trillion dollar spending and deficit programs Obama is proposing.
Most of the puns I can think to but here would be waiting a long time for moderation. Lets just say that during an administration riddled with cover-ups Flint has always been able to give us the naked truth.
That being said the demise of his industry would be the silver lining that is the cloud of the Bush administration.
If the government doesn't approve this bailout, plumbers and delivery drivers will face massive layoffs.
well, the Fed wants to save jobs right? I don't see anything wrong if thousands of jobs will be saved. I hope the government doesn't discriminate one job from another since both jobs are paying the bills for some American families. You gotta love the US!!!
Unworthy of even being mentioned, but since it is I have to respond. No fricking way, but thanks for the laugh, Larry. Repent
Just get Sarah and Joe the plummer to do a cover for Hustler and he will make a fortune.
fail.
I LOVE LARRY FLYNT!!!!!!! HE'S SMARTER THAN OUR POLITICIANS!
Yeah, right. This sounds like a hoax. Bailout the porn industry? Yeah, right
Never thought I'd ever type these words - Thank you, Larry Flint! There's been precious little to laugh at over the last several months, and this whole concept just made my day. Not a prayer these guys will see a penny, but I love that they had the audacity to ask...
Looks like the economy isn't the only thing broken. So is the American sense of humor. Good one Larry!
Youguys don't get it. Larry is pointing out the stoopidity of bailing out businesses. By asking for a bailout he is pointong out if the government is in the business of bailouts for companies, then all companies should and industries should be entitled to the same handout, not just the finance, insurance and auto industry that the governemtn is helping to rob us.
Next the meth industry is going to ask for a bailout too. LOL!!!
I just peed my pants a little I laughed so hard.
Go ask AIG they will give it to you just like the rest of the money they wasted on spas, hunting trips and 9 figure bonuses to the idiots who got the company in trouble in the first place.
This whole bail out is a joke with less oversite than what brought our countrysand the world economy down.
You know all Senators and Congressman love porn. They will surely support this. They might have to start looking at "The old Lady" Again.
Leave it to Harry Flynt to show the bailout for what it really is.
I love how our country is happily allowing corporate bailouts while there are real people in need, not just another CEO who needs an extra ivory back scratcher.
This looks like just a publicity stunt. As much as I like porn, I really don't think these two should be wasting the government's time.
This is by far the funniest I've heard in politics the last 3 months. Priceless. Hey why not, bailing out auto industries make just as much sense as bailing out the porm industry. Anybody else wants to get in line?
this has the backing of ex NY Govenor Spitzer
Are most of you commentators brain dead? This is a stunt clearly designed to highlight the absurdity of government bailout of ANY private enterprise. Porn is far better positioned than any other form of entertainment because Americans spend more on porn than they do on movies and video-games combined!
It is not April Fools day today, is it?
Laughed so hard I peed myself a little...
maybe they should send Joe the Plumber to cover this story, since he's such a mighty christian with God on his side
The audacity of Larry Flynt! What a joke! The trouble is that our stupid and totally corrupt politicians are all to prone to give them the 5 Billion.
The porn industry make billions of dollars they don't need a bailout, who do you think made VHS/DVD and now Blu-Ray the standard in watching videos?That request is ridiculous.
The oversight would be the best part!
hah, I figured Mr. Flynt would do something like this. I worked in his marketing department before and they are always looking to grab the spotlight and add some raunchiness to get attention...
What is this obsession some of you folk have with Oprah? Why don't you ever say anything about Jerry Springer or Maury... and they don't even advocate reading!!
once we bail these guys out.....instead of GIRLS GONE WILD.....its GOVERNMENT GONE WILD
TOTALLY. FRIGGIN. AWESOME!!
As usual, the people getting the most upset about this have missed the point ENTIRELY!
C'mon folks! Have we entirely lost our sense of humor in this country? $5B???? THAT alone should give you a clue.
- it's a tongue-in-cheek attempt to make a point -
And for those of you with a hair-trigger and no common sense, the point is:
All of these bailouts have got to stop. We either support a free market or socialism – you can't have it both ways...
sheeeshhh.
Why not if the government would have just given every American over 21 500.000 dollars we could have fixed this thing at the start.
Awesome. I love Larry Flynt. Of course the request is made with tongue planted firmly in... cheek.
Judging from the antics of Mr. Flynt's past stunts this is a tounge in cheek request and i know he's getting a kick out of watching all you evangelists getting your panties in a twist.
Instead of a federal bailout, I suggest they take up a collection among televangelists. After all, they seem to be the porn industry's best customers.
Oh my gosh . . . if the government "bails out" the porn industry, truly this is the end of American civilization. It's over.
For those of you taking this seriously – and it's amazing that some of you are – Flynt has always been known to try to point out the absurdities of our govt. This "request" is simply his way of drawing attention to the fact that the "legitimate" bailout is a major scam on the tax-paying public. And I personally cannot think of a better way to exemplify this than from someone in the sex industry. After all, we taxpayers cannot even get the govt. or the banks to account for what they've done with the money. Use any sexual metaphor you'd like to describe what this does to the American taxpayer.
what is worse, a thief with a suppossed legit business or an horrible porn industry that is totally onest
Well, at least it would guarantee a proper stimulus package.
hey why not, makes as much sense as bailing out Finance, Housing and Auto Industry. USA is done, Obama solution of tax breaks and increased spending will be the final nail in the coffin for Amerca. I was hoping for change but obviously Obama is just like GW, another worthless stimulus bill. God help us.
This has to be a joke.....Sick, sick, sick....
I'll say this because I haven't read it in any other comments:
This request for a bailout is clearly just a political statement and to gain publicity. Flynt clearly feels that the government should not be bailing anyone out, so to show his disapproval he is asking for a bailout himself. How many of you when you saw our government bail out banks and automakers said "I wish the governement would bail me out"? Flynt said the same thing, but he has the power to make his statements public.
I don't think they're meant to be taken seriously. They're probably illustrating what a joke the bailouts are.
In my opinion, the porn business industry should be banned now this days because they are just entertaining people to create sexually abusing ladies and convicted to illegal drugs or any kind. So I hope the government would support them. Also I heard them on HBO Pornucopia saying that they are billion dollars industry but how come now they are asking for money from the government. THAT'S SO CALLED STUPIDITY
if they get this money ill never pay my taxes again....im self employed and in the highest tax bracket...so i pay 35% of my income..then have to pay state and self employment tax....so i make 1 million a year and end up paying back like 45%......i know you wouldnt cry for me but it sure feels like robbery
Hopefully this will wake up the government to what total crap bailouts are. I knew everyone was going to stick their hands out looking for "their share". I don't care for Larry Flynt, but I hand it to him for bringing a white-hot spotlight to the stupidity (and Communism) of the government bailout programs. If he can help stop the insanity, then great. You don't have to like him or his business, but he is promoting the correct message relative to the bailout mess.
Where is the world heading? I don't want to pay for people who don't know how to budget money and make sacrifices, like I have had to do. That is not an American problem if you cannot get it up without obsenity. Please give me a break. Plus, doesn't Girls Gone Wild have law suits against them? Am I going to have to pay for someone taking advantage of underage girls!!! Please stop the madness.
I dunno, there's some merit to this. It's at least as important as the auto industry - I'd rather be forced to drive a European car than be forced to watch European porn! Seriously... have you seen that stuff?
this is a pr stunt
I love this! I know it is entirely a joke but it's a wonderful critique on the government's spending practices of late. It is a great way to show how Congress picks and chooses what to support based on what it feels is popular and what the donors want. Obviously nobody high up would take this request seriously, but I applaud them for making an effort to poke fun at the congress
If anyone knows Flint's history, you know he is not serious when he is asking for a bailout. He is making a political statement about the abuse of bailouts.Agree or disagree with his business, Flint is a very smart and patriotic individual.
The Bush economy is so bad that even the porn industry is hurting. What is next, the beer industry requesting a bailout?
So I'm a college student, Can I request $5 billion in funds so I can graduate in may and not have to suffer when I find a job???
Proud American
Would it make more than all the aid bush has provided to Africa?
Unbelievable........help everyone else except the taxpayer....and I guess we will hear our politicians state that this is what the American citizens want and they will support this....heaven forbid that the porn actors do not go unemployed...
What a reach!!!
Mr. Fylnt...These are serious times and we don't have room for idiots!
I'm returning every video I ever bought from you Flynt!
you bleating sheep – I can't believe ANY of you peasants are dumb enough to believe this is serious. Flynnt is *obviously* joking, getting a ton of free press, and once again illustrating how tragically illiterate the southern half of the USA has become. Love the leash, you serfs.
I agree with Larry this time, we all could use some money. First it was the wealthy convincing the vote they deserved a tax break beacuse they are the biggest and the best hard workers, now they want actual money to support some really bad choices? What is so different here than someone that lives off welfare? All the welfare in America do not equal in dollars what AIG got alone. This perception of what is ok is straight out of hell.
Now, this is one bailout I am all in favor of!
Obviously this is a ruse by Flynt and Francis to illustrate the obsurdity of the government bailouts.
I'm surprised at the number of people in this thread taking this story seriously.
I am hoping many of you know Flynt is not truly serious! Flynt and Francis are media whores. Flynt loves to stick it to the government anyway he can. I am sure they will ask for it. Both of them know they will not get it. It will, however, get them plenty of face time in the media. Laugh this one off, boys. It is funny!!!!!
A friend told me about this while carpooling to day. I thought he was joking, but my jaw is still on the ground after seeing this headline. What the hell! Are they for real? All I can say is only in America. I am interested to know how they account for their loss? This should be interesting, and I'm all ears. lol
...........just shaking my head.........speechless.
hey, I've been screwed enough by my American made cars in the past, and they got money...why not give it to the screw industry....? At least they'll leave you with a smile on your face, unlike the big 3.
In my opinion, the porn business industry should be banned now this days because they are just entertaining people to create sexually abusing ladies and convicted to illegal drugs or any kind. So I hope the government would "NOT" support them for $$$ billion bailout. By the way, I heard them on HBO Pornucopia saying that they are billion dollars industry but how come now they are asking for money from the government? THAT'S SO CALLED STUPIDITY
It's called satire people. Flynt and Co. are just making fun of the whole situation and getting a free and easy media grab for publicity. nothing more, so everyone can stop getting their panties in a bunch.
NOW I have heard it all!
This is one bailout I support 100%. I KNOW the money would be used to put people to work. Not like handing the banks and others 1 trillion to pay themselves bonuses and buy more banks.
I am cracking up over this. The economic reality right now, regardless of the industry, seems to be change or die. I find it ridiculous that the government is putting more money into the hands of those who have already proven they cannot handle it. I doubt things will change until we see rioting in the streets for shelter and food.
Simmer down, this is a satire by Larry Flynt. Think what you will of what he does for a living, but he's just pointing out that this bailout has gotten out of hand. Someone in the midwest can't take a joke!
And we're not going to burn in hell for porn Maggie from SC, it's just a little entertainment.
Hey, I like porn as much as the next guy, but no one that has to run for reelection will EVER support this.
"Is it the most serious thing in the world? Is it going to make the lives of Americans better if it happens? It is not for them to determine." –
Does this guy realize who pays the taxes that go to these bailouts. Talk about telling the American people how little they matter, the money is not the governments, it is the taxpayers money!
Without porn, I'm out of a job.
If the U.S. government refuses to bail out Flynt and his buddies, then the porn industry will be, shall we say, screwed.
This is hilarious. Funny they timed their request knowing nothing can be done by the Dem dominated Congress on their request until AFTER Obama is sworn in. But better to fund them than something like the little gay prostitution ring that was at one time run from Barney Frank's apartment roflmao
Can nobody see the brilliant sarcasm?
It is a sad, sad day when the porn industry asks for a bailout. I thought they would be doing just fine since thier "products" and porn can be bought and downloaded for your iPhone, iPod, PSP, yada yada, so on and so forth. Come on America, is this really an industry that we need? Or is this Country going back on its founding principles again? The founding fathers are rolling in thier graves...I would protest over such a waste of government funding. YOU DONT SEE BROADWAY GETTING A BAILOUT!!!!! They are closing great shows cause the American public cant even afford to shell out 120 bucks for some quality entertainment. Shut down a few mags and porn sites Larry. Suffer like the rest of America and adapt.
Give the bailout only if we get the bankers to act in the movies.
I don't think this is what Barack Obama was talking about when he said we couldn't afford four more years of "bush"
OMG! This is just yet ANOTHER way for them (the porn industry) to get more unsolicited free media attention from the mainstream media and it's working...CNN is reporting...That's all. Trying to choke us with their "Freedom of speech" blah, blah, blah. Larry Flint & Joe Francis are the definition of opportunists. They are businessmen and this is a business venture. this kind of media attention would cost millions. Very smart of them, but still sickening. (Let me go puke, now)
prostition is a crime i still do not know why the porn industry is not yet criminalised. no one needs to be taught how to make love its natural and this request for bail out is sick. very soon americans will be asking for a bailout from the government when they cannot satisfy their wives in bed.
Unbelievable. Federal aid for smut and freakdom denizens.
Just cant believe that these dudes are, still ,equating s-x with
any type of marital relationship, and this explains the rising divorce rate. That is, if anyone is getting married at all.
supply vs demand = if nobody is watching, then deal with it
Hey, if Bill Clinton was prez, this would pass in a heartbeat!!
I think more than a few people need to look up the phrase "publicity stunt."
OMG... this is the best story that I have EVER read on CNN.com... LOL!!! This is unbelievable!
Well, lets see... if the government is going to bail out the porn industry, why don't they just give money to everyone in the US and we can all be bailed out and have a fresh start...
That doesn't sound too bad to me...
LMAO!!!! BEST STORY EVER! LOL!!
RIdiculous! Why waste precious $$ on this? I think I should ask for a bailout to pay for the rest of college.
I knew that other industries would be following along the bailout plan, but I can honestly say I never dreamed porn would be one of them.
Their names should be RICHARD CRANIUM... for the "industry" they belong to!
Just stop... please!
Let the fail and put some morals back in our society... This has to be a joke, I can not possible imagine that any sitting representative or congressman would even entertain this request. If it happens, then we as a country have failed because we are now morally bankrupt.
This is clearly done to make a point about how some people think that bailouts of any kind are absurd. To all those who are asking if this is a joke, the answer is definitely YES. If you can't see that you really need a lesson in common sense.
What's next? Legalize prostitution and drug trafficking. WAFJ! What A Freaking Joke!
If the tax payers money is going to bailout this people. Then I think the American people would like to get some action in return.
Anyone who thinks the porn industry is serious with their request should lose the right to vote.
That's it! I am moving to Canada!!! Where's the TAXPAYER bailout package.....
Better Larry Flynt than Wall Street. Well played sir! I am in line for my $5bn next.
Wow! This is funny! I find it highly unlikely that the porn industry is suffering that much! Guys spend there money on booze, babes and food and that is about it! I am a liberal Democrat and I would never support this idea! If the porn industry dies, there is always the web! lol!
This is just Larry Flint tweaking the nose of the government once again. He doesn't expect a bailout, nor does he need one. He just likes to score a political point every now and then.....and the bailout thing was just too easy to pass up.
What makes them Sick? Aside from your own personal feelings, they are a business... The Provide a Product for a Price..
it may not be the most socially acceptable business, but I would rather give them my money then to a large bank or financial investment firm that took horrible gamble's with and left me with nothing to show for it....And then in turn ask for 3 bailouts while exectutive management takes luxury retreats.
Finally someone asked for sensible bailout.
Relax you nitwits.
Flynt is doing what he has done for 30+ years, which is to demonstrate the hypocrisy of American government, morals and business. What is the government going to say? "Sure smut peddler, have some tax dollars!"
NO.
He's doing it to prove a point: that they'll give money to idiots who sell poorly made goods that people don't want to buy (American cars) and will never pay back, but not to an industry that consistently earns a profit and has a wining track record because PEOPLE WANT IT.
So put your bibles and pitchforks away. Geez, you hillbillies are clueless..
Enough with the bailouts – no matter the industry! If anyone needs money, just send them to a bank for a loan like any other business/individual, or if it comes down to it file for chapter 11 bankruptcy protection!
Frodo: Hilarious!!!!!!
To those here pondering whether or not this is a joke, I believe this is Larry Flynt making a point in his own sardonic manner. I really don't think the industry ACTUALLY expects any government money in the form of a "bailout". I think they're trying to make a statement that there are other industries without the lobbying power of banks and automobile manufacturers that are suffering just as much. And what the heck, they get some (relatively) free publicity out of it!
One man cannot elect a Senator.. Run for office.... Let the Majority decide...Next you will have a "Kingdom" ,,,, Your God Forbid!!!!
Not that I care.... Just equality.... Black is White??? Or did it change since Obama????
Guess they're just gonna have to suck it up.
Time are rough for everyone!!
Cars were invented to drive to hooters and brothels. I don't care if the car industry goes down but I need my porn. I'll cycle if I have to.
Those of you who say you want the porn industry to die are just prudes. Why do so many Americans have so many hang ups? I don't support a bailout for the porn industry b/c they are still doing just fine at least. But come on people. Stop being so prude! America just aint right...
I don't know about the bail-out, but porn is an important function for our society. Our society should be more open about sexuality and refrain from villifying porn actors and sex workers. Yes – there are extremes and ...over-indulgence, and issues not addresed for porn addicts. And there are serious facts cocerning sex-slavery, subjugation, and child pornography, however there are adults who willingly do porn and should not be lumped in with all the atrociousnous the industry seems to attract. If we sweep it under the rug – get rid of it, then only the seedy of society will controll it. It is just sex.
This is the greatest thing ive heard in a long long time.
These men are patriots.
If it makes you angry then you are missing the point.
The only industry USA actually own, the rest comes from China and Middle East. God bless US economy
Are you serious..?! Well if they're asking for a bailout, can I have one as well..? I'm broke from Christmas.
C'mon really..? lol...what a joke
Joe Francis? Did they finally let that sleaze-ball out of jail? Shouldn't he be busy seducing more underage girls?
Jesus the comments here are insane. Look at the article and read it people. Don't take it to heart. Both Flynt and the other goon are using this as a parody! Its funny as hell but in their underlying issue they have a point!
They getting FREE Publicity. That's exactly what they want.
I think you guys are all missing the satirical point being made about the ridiculousness of much of the bailouts (particularly to the auto industry). Cheers Larry and Joe–hysterical and cuttingly accurate!
Get the Fluff out of here!!!!!!!!! When Jena Jameson doesn't make cars!! She does things in cars but does not make cars.
Ho, ho, ho. Everyone wants a bailout and everyone has a SOB story. I am sure Congress will go for this, given their desire for oversight of bailout money.
There's no way the porn industry will ever die. They definitely don't need this.
Wow, look at all the hypocrites. When the banks and auto makers were asking for money people were screaming, "Give it to them! They'll lose jobs! They have families!" Now that it's something that doesn't seem so "important" to them they could care less about the jobs and families. People in the porn industry have families, also, you know. And I'm not ashamed to admit that the porn industry has done more for my life than any bank or auto maker has. What has Wachovia done for you? What has Ford done for you? Nothing. Porn's always been there for me when I needed it.
Why not everyone else is asking for one? I live in state where I might be getting an I.O.U for my state income tax. I wonder if I can give my property taxes an I.O.U?!!!
If we are going to support the companies that make garbage automobiles so they can keep on making them, then i'm all for porn.
Yeah!
THis is effing ridiculous! If this actually gets aprove or even put into consideration I will lose all respect for my country!
Let's just be honest here, most people would go crazy if the adult entertainment industry went under. It's like a car crash, you know you shouldn't be looking but you just can't help yourself .
Some people just don't get the irony. Besides the adult industry already got some of the bail out money, it just got funneled through AIG first.
What gives the Big 3 the right to get a bailout but not the porn industry? At least the porn industry makes good products.
wow January 7th, 2009 2:08 pm ET
now, now, bush was blamed for everything possible, I think even two distant colliding stars. please do not rush to stop putting blame on the person in the big chair. as for this request by the porn bigboys: it seems they are having a go in that this bailout push a big pot for all to grovel over. a strange solution for strange times, so why not. it is a farcial request from a farical solution.
Wow, you guys are taking this seriously!? They're not actually asking for money; they're making a POINT. The point is that if the government can bail out specific industries without anyone noticing or caring (who REALLY wanted the bank bail out, anyway), the same should be considered for even the porn industry. They even said they're not suffering monitarily – you people just need to read between the lines.
And yet, as a medical student, I can no longer get an economic hardship deferment on my loans when I graduate and begin residency. By all means bail out the Big 3 and the adult entertainment industry. Who needs doctors anyway?
I think we should let the American people vote for who gets a bailout and who doesn't. Then we'll see how far this stupid request goes !
The thing is, we have now established a POLICY of bailing out industries. Popular opinion could change that policy, but in this case, I dont think it will. Regardless of what your personal beliefs are, porn is popular, and thanks to elected officials, they will do what will get them elected next year. So assuming the modern media DOES make a deal out of this, Congress probably will give em some money. If the media doesnt make a big deal out of this, Congress will try to slide by and ignore it, so it really comes down to what the populace ends up believing, as usual.
I assume this is their way of saying there never should have been bailouts in the first place – essentially an active form of disputing policy. The reality is that these bailouts tax profitable enterprises to support ones that are losing money, and many people don't like that.
To all of you who are taking this so seriously, get a grip.
This is hilarious. Flynt, who right or wrong has been one of the country's greadest advocates for free speech is just taking this to the next level. I doubt he seriously expects to get any cash but it would be his way of showing what a sham the handouts have been to this point.
And he wins either way, he either gets the cash or, if they deny it, he gets to take it to court. Business is business and they (govt) will have to show why one deserves a bailout and the other does not. There will be much more to come on this.
This takes some BIG ONES
If the government does not approve this bailout, plumbers and home delivery men will face massive layoffs.
I can't believe how many people are actually taking this seriously.
I never thought I'd say it, but Larry Flynt is hands down the best satirist in America.
If they get bailout money, then I will be sending congress a request for my own bailout cash.
I think we need to bail out the drug dealers next!
Ridiculous.
It's kind of funny reading some of the responses. I believe most got too wound up reading that they overlook the last sentence. Seriously, let's see a show of hands on how many think congress is going to consider this?
Didn't see any.
Ya'll have a nice day...
Pathetic request from a pathetic industry.
If you didn't see this coming you're an idiot. Of course everyone and their mother is going to want a piece of the big bail out. Once you open that door it is very hard to close. The bail outs should have never been allowed to happen, we are undermining our own economic philosophies when the government is allowed to step in and save companies that can't keep their own books or meet market demands.
A week after American International Group received an $85 billion bailout from the federal government — ostensibly to rescue the insurance company from financial ruin — 70 of its top performers enjoyed a lavish, $400,000 weeklong retreat. Less than 24 hours after the news of the junket broke, the Federal Reserve announced it had agreed to give AIG an additional loan of up to $37.8 billion. AIG thanked taxpayers by spending $86,000 for hunting trips in England.
TAXPAYERS RECEIVED NOTHING!!!
At least if we bailed out the adult industry we might get some great pictures and videos of the party!
While I'm not a fan of the porn industry, I like this because it inadvertently makes a critical statement about the bail out concept.
PLEASE APPOINT ME THE PORN CZAR !!!
this is what makes america the greatest nation in world. imagine this is saudi arabia or other parts of the world. i love america.
yeah, right, I personally think it should all go under, and off the shelves and off the streets of America.
If anyone thinks this is for real, just go back and watch "The People Vs. Larry Flynt". Then sit back and enjoy the satire and irony as half the country gets tied up in fits and knots of moral outrage (while secretly buying tons of porn). Kudos to the still king of "the worst of 'em"... Larry Flynt!
I have a huge feeling this is to make a point. What makes auto workers better than porn actors? NOTHING. I didn't want to bail out the automakers flying in on there luxury jets, nor wallstreet getting huge bonuses at our expense. The porn industry has just as much right as them.
This is great!
Seriously, if we are going to fancy prance around socialism while patting our backs for being the worlds greatest patriots we might as well have some commie porn to go along with our commie banks and commie cars.
This whole thing is a joke.
Flynt for President! 2012!
Hell has frozen over, LOL!!!!
Now is the time for all men/women to STOP Their sinful ways... Wake up and smell the coffee...Has not this world shown ALL what is comming ????
So.... Debbie Does Welfare?
At least we would be able to SEE what Larry Flint and GGW do with their bailout money.
Always new Playboy was better
This request is no less valid than a good number of the rest of the entities already issued bailout checks. Read the list and judge for yourself. Remember, the banks haven't reported how the money money was spent. I don't approve of Mr. Flynt's request, but at least he is honest.
jenn: you are right. What we need is less of Flynt and his ilk and more of morally upright, constructive programming and magazines, etc.
Freedom of Speech, ladies and Gentlemen
This has got to be the biggest load of crap yet. People losing their jobs, their homes and trying to survive have to listen to these people who tear away at the moral fabric of our culture.
The answer should be a resounding NO and GO AWAY.
Why don't all you whiners band together and cry for a bailout too? You will need it to pay for your internet access so you can keep whining !!
I've been asking for Nancy and Barney to call.
Ron
What next? Will we bail out the prostitutes becase their Johns don't have enough left over from what their demanding families had to have to survive. Give me a break! We're taking food out of the mouths of children and feeding the greed and filth of the wealthy. I think our country will sink to a new low if the government starts bailing out smut and those that profit from it. I believe that something like this makes a mockery of morally good people who work and pay taxes to a government that is supposed to look out for the best interest of the many not the few. What ever happened to our Christian Nation??
Democrats make porn, Republicans use porn and take it a little too far.
Flynt has a good point. With the housing market showing continued softness, we don't that spreading to other parts of the economy.....
No way!!!! I think that there are better industries that should be first. Porn should not be on the list of priorities!!
I just came back from Las Vegas where 4th graders are pleading in front of their District not to stop bus service for the gifted program. . . and we're spending $10B a month on a military action. How does a father explain to his son that there is no room for a bus route in the budget, George spent it all..... The circus must go on. Give 'em hell Larry!!!
just got to be kidding ,supposed to be a billion dollors industry
i quess internet taking all the $$$ from those guys .Let them
die die die ha ha ha ha
Be funny. Porn employs more people than the three automakers. This could in all seriousness cause a legitamate depression (No pun intended).
I am an intelligent American who has waited for the Big 3 to reap the whirlwind from their extremely stupid business practices. I would rather see GM disappear before porn. At least porn still does what people made it for.
You can even keep a GM car running for more than two years...
To the "Christian Democrat"....I think it's time to rethink your theology...cuz its WEAK!
Stand before God some day with your liberal views and see how he likes your ideas....
You've got to love Larry Flint. He sees the bailouts for what they really are...a bunch of BS and theft of tax money.
Of course he's going to ask for some. His industry is probably much bigger than the Auto industry, the products are "green" now deliverable over the internet–reducing packaging, new models every year, etc...the car analogies could go on and on...
The point is that we are all being taken to the cleaners. Obama is promising to spend $700B more!!! Everyone criticized W for signing the previous $700B bailout and now we'll have more. Bailouts are ridiculous, let the companies fail and let it be a lesson to all of us to understand what we are investing in and who is managing our money. Unfortunately, these bailouts are going to the same people who screwed up the first time. Will we bail them out when they are still failing a year from now?!?!?
This is rich! At least there is no pretense to Larry Flynt. He is what he is. Something from a Fellini movie, eh?
i hope the irony of the porn industry asking for "stimulus" help is not lost on everyone . . .
Ahahaha. This literally makes me laugh out loud.
I like how he says, " Is it going to make the lives of Americans better if it happens? It is not for them to determine."
What does that even mean? I feel like that is such a dead wrong statement.
Gotta love the response to this one. It's amazing how many people fail to admire or even recognize great satire.
As he began ,under oath..would God let him finish before He sapped him or would He let him say so help me God first?
apparently most of the people who have commented do not understand the value of "making a point".
heck, i wish he'd have tried this earlier maybe we wouldn't have given so much money to businesses who felt it necessary to reward the CEOs who mismanaged things.
Flynt has a good point. With the housing market showing continued softness, we don't want that spreading to other parts of the economy…..
Are you kidding me? THIS IS A JOKE CMON PEOPLE TIME FOR US TO COME TOGETHER AND PUT A STOP TO THE BAILOUT MADNESS!
To the person that said "Wow, I'm a Christian democrat who would love to see the porn industry die". How very Christian of you!!
How about this.. "I'm a freedom loving individual who believes in the values of liberty as set by the founders of this country therefore I may not agree with certain things but I will defend free speech to the death! And as God has given us all inalienable rights as humans, I understand my freedom ends where yours begins. Although I do not agree with this, I will not stand in the way of the rights God has given to each and every one of us".
Can I call for a group prayer for a moment? Everyone pray with me please... "Dear God, please save us from religion".
I'd rather bail out Larry Flynt than the thieves who caused the house market collapse due to their GREED.
It will not be hard to find a Member of Congress that wants to be the Porn Czar that is equivalent to the Car Czar.
Maybe Larry Craig can give them a hand.
Next it will be the Drug Dealers Association of America!! lol
All of you who express righteous indignation to this news story need to take a chill pill. Larry is trying to make a point... every business seems to be holding their hands out, expecting the government (i.e. us... it's our taxes doing it, after all) to save them. If everybody else is doing it, why not him and the rest of the porn industry? That's his point.
The article even mentions how the porn industry is still doing pretty well, especially online.
So take the article with a grain of salt, stop getting so upset, and start to focus your anger at all of the other myriad of companies and industries who somehow expect to be saved from their own mistakes (yes, including the auto industry).
The porn industry provides jobs to many hard working people. They're not all stars in front of the camera, but fathers and mothers trying to support their families. The United States Constitution was signed because of the inclusion of the Bill of Rights, one of which is the Freedom of Speech. As an industry we do not take issue with religion on tv.
Judge not, that ye be not judged
Does anyone know how much revenue is generated by this industry? Does anyone know how many tax dollars this industry provides? Does anyone know how many jobs are tied to this industry?
Let's face it, the whole auto bailout was about protecting jobs and revenues, right? What's the difference? Let's lose all the righteous indignation and morale outrage and view this from a business perspective. If look at it that way, isn't this all about protecting jobs?
All in all, this is a tongue-in-cheek way for Flynt and others to say, "where do we draw the line on bailouts"?
I guess I'll sit back and wait for the self-righteous to unload on me now....
I would give my vote to bail out porn only to see the faces of all those people who want to see the industry die.
"You can be wrong, but you can't be stupid"
The porn industry is all about one thing...well maybe 2 things, but my point is they are just trying to see what they can get away with and how far they can go. There's really nothing new in the thinking here.
All I have left to say is this.
U rock Larry!... Joe, I'm not as big a fan...sorry!
WHY STOP AT PORN!!!! Why don't we also bail out most of the Hollywood film makers and actors, who are losing money hand over fist! After all, it's not their fault that no one watches their films anymore! It has nothing to do with the fact that they only make their films to appeal to less thatn 1% of the American public! Heck, let's throw some tax payer money at the terrorists! Those poor killers are low on fundage to be able to carry out any more successful attacks! It would only be the right and sensitive thing to do!
and why not? if banks and automakers dont have to be responsible for bad investments, why should adult entertainment companies have to either? Let's be even-handed with our tax money that's being given out.
Classic Larry Flynt. He just loves to poke the Establishment in the eye. That doesn't make him a bad person.
Yeah I understand that companies are trying to survive in tough economic times, but the survival of the American people does NOT depend on the porn industry!!!!!!!!!!
I think this is getting out of hand. I do hope that the new government keeps their common sense and do not grant any help to this industry.
In order to improve we need to create jobs, and compettive industries to have an economic advantage. We are in global market, and unless we are referring to strategic industries, we need to maintain a balance in allocating or providing any resource to our industries.
At the same time, our country needs to develop every region and make sure there are industries that provide jobs everywhere, not just near the large cities.
The government is in no position to save every industry and everyone. At the end of the day the taxpayers are the ones paying for any help given to industries.
We have already seen how this government has allocated hundreds of billions to financial institutions without regard to their real needs. As an example, there are many family owned stable banks, that have received hundreds of millions - the question is, what is the reason that they received this money if they did not need it?
As President elect Obama said, the new government will be accountable for its expenditures.
You know the end of the world is upon us when you see things like this....
If this industry fails, just think of the, suppliers all those jobs lost, this would be very tragic, congress should hold a special hearing and have the porn executives come to washington. OH wait they are already there, nevermind, can you see them lining up to be the porn czar. Hey I 'm just saying.
He probably would've had better luck with that request during the Clinton Administration.
ROTFL!!!
If you people don't get the sarcasm here, then you need to get a sense of humor. Of course this is a joke!
You must be joking????? The average citizen is getting screwed left and right and these morons want a bailout???? Jeez what next?
That just puts the bailout craziness in perspective huh? LOL!! I give him a 50/50 chance of getting some amount of money too.
Let porn go under and for sure California bankrupts. Watch....
“The porn industry has been hurt by the downturn...
hmmm
I've heard that during hard times the needy and animal sheltors are hit the hardest. Not once have I ever heard of the porn industry being hard up (no pun intended!)
Now this is funny!!! Not the bail out. But the reaction of some of the people that are taking this seriously. THESE ARE THE JOKES PEOPLE!!!! CALM DOWN AND GET A LIFE.
I don't think so. Flint has more monet then he knows what to do with.
I cannot believe that industry would even remotely begin to ask for such a thing. We in America have a lot more to worry about right now than bailing out the likes of that kind business. Morons is right!!
Their silicone breasts are too big to fall - we must bail them out!
Good for you Larry.......I think we all need a bailout. Everybody that has lost their job should be in an uproar that they are having to pay for these bailouts so others don't lose theirs. Can you see the logic in that? In my family alone they are some that have lost their "lowly blue collar" jobs while listening to other family members that work for GM in their "it's a white collar job, you wouldn't understand" cry about how they deserve the bailout becasue their lifestyle shoudn't have to change..............it's unfair. WAH!
NO. Not a cent!
Larry Flint and Joe Francis jlosing money is the very least of my worries. If fact, they need to be concerned about losing their souls eternally!!!
...
Geez.. if they'd just lower the prices of the DVD's and Videos, I think
that would help sales a lot! Who would've thought that porn flicks
would ever reach $59 apiece?? But between O'samabama and the
auto and porn industry, maybe I can watch some porn dvd's in my
new Chevy this year??!!!
Gives a whole new meaning to the words "Stimulus Package"!
Qualms or no... if you don't see the genius in their request you are a severely repressed and closed-off individual.
Larry Flynt is probably not completely serious about his request. Don't get me wrong, I thing just like everyone else out there, he would probably take the money is granted to him. I think his point is that the government is bailing out industries and companies which should never have been bailed out. There has been a very bad precedent put in place by the federal government.
We all owe LF a debt of gratitude for his legal battles regarding the first amendment. Additionally, alot of religious fundamentalist could learn a thing or tow from the fact that after the case, Falwell and Flynt became cordial – respecting one another's magesteria more than most ever do!
Now that is pretty funny.
I just formed my own bank holding company with my dog as vice-president, and my barber as secretary, so I can qualify for a bailout too.
wow,
you know the people who brag about how porn insults them are the very ones who are the freakiest porn watchers, and not just the regullar kind, I'm talking about melted cheese, feet, and candy corn fetishes (if you get my drift)
"...I'm a christian Democrat who doesn't like porn...bla bla bla bla bla..."
Go try to fool somebody else and don't make us bring your treasure chest out, we just might faint after we see whats in it.
The "Christian" (and other religious) hypocrisy has no bounds.
Free "Whoopee" for all. After all that the lenders, investment banks and Madow have done to the country, maybe Flynt's got a point here. If were going to get "you know what", we might as well come out smiling.
Seriously, this ranks up there with the 1970's incident with Wilbur Mills and the "Argentine Firecracker" cavorting in the Tidal Basin while "snockered". Only in America indeed!
You've got to be kidding me?! This is hilarious!
Wow. I'm absolutely amazed at the number of comments here that are decrying this "request". Yeah, people don't have food, shelter, clothing, work or health insurance. Apparently they don't have sarcasm detectors or a sense of humor either.....
What about the homeless people, can they make a request to Congress too? I do not want my money to go to pornography.
To Jenn: So is murder, mayhem, child abuse, corruption degrading to society. The man has made the point. Our government lent $700 billion dollars to crooked banks and Wall Street.
What part of that don't you understand.
hahahahahaha!! good for him!!
If Congress approves this bail out, all US citizen's should refuse to pay taxes.
very funny
if they get it i want io know to sign up for mine
Duh, they are trying to make a point and I think it is a good one. If we are going to bail out anyone who asks, why not the porn industry. And for those of you who say we wouldn't miss it, you must not be getting any.
It would be interesting to know the political affiliation of those who don't "get" that this is a joke and who are so indignant that this could occur. I don't know which is more hilarious. But it was good to get a smile out of reading the news – it's been a while.
Seriously???