WASHINGTON (CNN) - Rep. Bill Posey, R-Florida, introduced legislation this week requiring candidates to produce a birth certificate to be eligible to run in future presidential elections, triggering a sharp reaction from Democrats who accused him of "questioning President Obama's citizenship."
Posey submitted a bill with no fanfare Thursday that instructs the Federal Election Campaign Act of 1971 to be amended to add the birth certificate requirement. The Constitution requires that a president or a vice president be "a natural born citizen."
Read: Posey's bill
During the presidential campaign, some people - mostly Republicans - questioned whether Obama, who was born in Hawaii, was a U.S. citizen. Obama's mother was a U.S. citizen, while his father was from Kenya.
Obama produced a certified copy of his birth certificate from the Hawaii Department of Health, but critics argued that it was a fake or had been altered. The Supreme Court has turned down several requests that it hear challenges to the president's citizenship.
"Opponents of President Bush used the 2000 election results and the court decisions to question the legitimacy of President Bush to serve as President," Posey said in a statement. "Opponents of President Obama are raising the birth certificate issue as a means of questioning his eligibility to serve as president. Neither of these situations are healthy for our Republic.
"This bill, by simply requiring such documentation for future candidates for President will remove this issue as a reason for questioning the legitimacy of a candidate elected as President."
Posey spokesman George Cecala emphasized several times to CNN that the congressman was "not trying to fan the flames" of the Obama citizenship dust-up nor was he "trying to jab someone in the eye." Instead, Posey was "just trying to clarify the law," Cecala said.
Cecala added that Posey, who was elected in 2008, decided to introduce the bill because of concerns raised by constituents and other people from across the country. So far, the bill has no cosponsors and Posey did not inform the Republican leadership he was introducing it, according to Cecala.
"This was not meant as an insult to the president," Cecala said. "It is simply meant as a way to clarify future election laws and to dispel the issue so we can move on with doing business for the country," he said.
But Florida Democrats do not see it that way and expressed their criticism of Posey in an e-mail to supporters.
"Congressman Posey should be focused on creating jobs and jumpstarting the economy, but it seems he's only obsessed with pandering to the right wing," Karen Thurman, chair of the Florida Democratic Party, charged in the Friday afternoon note.
So does Posey believe that Obama is truly a U.S. citizen?
"I think we are going to take the president at his word for it, just like we take every other candidate's word for it," Cecala said.
From CNN Politics
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May be he is actually pointing out McCain been born in Panana in military base.
Or is he plain jealous like those from the party of no
Oh, for God's sake. Am I the only one who's tired of this ridiculous gamesmanship? Homelessness is out of control; people are out of work; we just cut $11 billion dollars from California's education budget, and I don't know how bad off those of you in the other 49 states are, but I suspect it's pretty bad for all of us. There's not a single poliltician out there who should be thinking about anything so sophomoric and petty. Well, at least we'll know who we can dispense with when the time comes - anybody who's not working as hard as they can for the American people should be out on their keister. Kiester. Whatever.
It just never ends.
Wow. Talk about a desperate and cynical move. And we wonder why this country is in trouble.
was it a actual birth certificate, a notice of 'live birth' ran in a local news paper? this is important.
really now?
with all the problems going on in the world now, is this really necessary? i think this is far from our list of priorities at the moment.
So does Posey beleive John MaCain is a US citizen? Mr McCain has a Certificate of birth abroad, why, because he was born outside the United States, in Panama to be specific, where as President Obama was born in Hawaii. Both these gentlemen were legally born US citizens are both are qualified under the US Constitution as citizens of the United States to hold the Office of President. We do not need individuals such as Posey yanking peoples chains proposing changes to the US Consitution, totally unaware of where the qualifications for office are laid out.
Well, well! How does one become a citizen of a country. Is it by endorsement, favouritism or by birth ? Why are some of these GOPs trying their dandest to bring red herrings across Obama's trail? Do I need to use the "R" word? in response? Disgusting!
Will they ask for a genetic test next if a bill is approved requiring that candidates present their birh certificates prior to nomination?
Another Republican has committed political suicide.
At least he was born in the US, unlike McCain.
I would have thought this rule was already in place. Obama is a citizen, period. He was born in Hawaii and has the notarized birth certificate to prove it.
Give it a rest already!
Perhaps Posey is from that portion of Florida where there's a fairly limited gene pool and is therefore, understandably, not really aware the Hawaii is, in fact, a state.
This just goes to prove republicans STILL can not come up with a new idea.
Republicans are the only ones that can run the country, get rid of the defict, end the wars, make everyone rich and have good jobs. They said that they needed more time and not willing to help until they get in power again. They will do whatever it takes to keep the economic going south until then. They rather for their states to go to hell in a hand basket so that they can become president. They will only wait and keep the the country hostage. Republican soldiers follow democrat officers and vice versa. Republican needs to act like soldiers and do what is right for the country. The country is only strong as the people who work to make it strong and not for themselves or the their party affiation
Dear Mr. President,
Unless Hawaii is not really a part of the United States, I think your job is safe.
The foundation you are building is working and it is making our country strong. Continue to build on that strong foundation, not on the sinking sand we chose in the past.
Continue to ignore every negative voice. It is just so much white noise.
(When you were honest about the economy they said you were too negative, when you tried to build up confidence on the economy they said that you were talking like John McCann.)
I am sure you are on the right track. Repair the breach, restore the places to dwell in. We are with you Mr. President. Yes, you can and will do it and we will see it come about. (Continue!)
Can Republicons do anything but fear-monger and call for the deletion of the federal govermnet?
The party of lies and distortions lives on. The GOP represents the interests of a few of its country in a country. The red states have among the lowest education results around – perfect for the GOP to manipulate votes from the naive. From the economic disaster of Reagan to Bush2, the national debt has gone up – only exception was the Clinton years. If Rump Limpbutt can remain their face for another 4 years, we may pull out of this ok.
instead of trying to fix the economy, the RNC is doing this????? Why? this won't help me with a job.
Pathetic. is this what the GOP is going to do for the next 4 years? I hope so, they are sure to do themselves in.
I applaud Bill Posey's bill.
The criticism shouldn't be lobbed towards Posey for "questioning Obama's citizenship" (though it's entirely expected in the gang warfare attitude of partisan politics). It should be towards Obama for dodging any procurement of a physical copy of his birth certificate.
Obama's supporters seem to be oblivious to the simple fact that silencing this issue is very simple - just make public a physical copy of the certificate. I'm sure he was born in Hawaii like he says he was. But he needs to actually prove his eligibility just like everyone else does.
President Barrak Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama!!!!!!!!!
hell yes! Obama only produced a doctored Green copy...that type of computer paper wasn't around in 1961....and he must produce a vault copy....of which he's still failed to do.
Good for Rep. Bill Posey. More power to you.
If I were the President and had nothing to worry about, I would tell whoever, knock your lights out, check out my birth certificate. I have nothing to hide or worry about. If for no other reason, we know how the Democrats love to say, "ha ha we told you so" to the Republicans. This would be their golden opportunity. But, like I said, if I had nothing to hide.
Rush is pulling out all the stops to make him fail!!!! Now he's got one of his senator's introducing legislation.....
Ridiculous. The people of Florida should start holding their elected officials to a higher standard than garbage like this.
Enough already...What else does he have to do? John McCain wasn't born in the US. Both of his parents parents were Americans, however. The statement in the Constitution about "a natural born citizen" is vague anyway. It has never been challenged and it shouldn't be challenged now.
"Just trying to clarify the law" my butt.
This Posey is grandstanding to the right-wing extremists.
Someone needs to tell this idiot that all this hype is not stimulating the economy, paying anyone's bills or getting people into jobs.
If it walks like a duck, if it quacks like a duck, is it truly a fowl Republican from Florida??
obama can resolve this but chooses not to.
his stubborn attitude keeps raising the question.
why not resolve it?
This is all the better that any congressperson or senator has to do with all of the other more important issues that this country faces. His motives for promoting this bill are very suspect and not much of a surprise that it was a Republican. Before anybody gets there noses out of joint, Democrats have pulled their fair share of stupid stunts also.
AGAIN!?!?!?!
I wonder when the Republican Party is going to stop whining about their loss and start realizing that the American Public has used their electoral power to send them a message – that their constituency is clearly NOT satisfied with their performance over the last 8 years.
People need to get off this. President Obama is a U.S. Citizen by being born in Hawaii. Anyone born in our borders is a U.S. Citizen by right. No matter where their parents are from. And this is from a person who did not vote for the president. If he had not been a natural born citizen he would not have got as far as he had. Neither party would nominate anyone who was not eligible for the office. Let it go.
Just another "NUMNUT".
Not only was Obama extremely secretive and defensive about his birth certificate, but he was adopted by a stepfather who was not a United States citizen, and thus, became a citizen of that country. No one has been able to prove that Obama was actually born in Hawaii. Why doens't the courts want to allow the citizens of our country to be sure their president is actually qualified to be president? Why does Obama continue to fight any effort to pursue the matter? Something is not right somewhere! Whare there is smoke there is fire.
LOL. I hope he also has some legislation on the books to improve the lives of his constituents as well as his witch hunt...then again, Republicans are against multi-tasking I hear...
I can not believe this garbage is still in the news. PLEASE! Do these people believe the earth is flat? and why is CNN wasting space on it. His mother is a natural born citizen , he was born in Hawaii, a State in the USA. This nut job from Florida, by the way, McCain was born in Panama where is dad was serving in the Marines at the time. If you want interesting news geared to persons with an IQ over 90, and education over 10th grade, try the huffington post, they don't print the stupid stuff like this.
So, to whom does a candidate present this document? The HR department? The Supreme Court? Bill Posey?
Time to get out your tin foil hats! What a joke.
It's a shame this hasn't always been done. Probably should explicitly state that no candidate may have ANY documents sealed, as well.
CNN, could you please do a piece on the presidential vetting process, and investigate the difference between a Birth Certificate and a Certificate of Live Birth?
My Dad was in the U.S. Army during WWII. I was born in England while my Dad was landing on the beaches of France during D-Day. I can't be president. I had two children overseas in Japan while their Dad was stationed at a U.S. Naval station. This "natural born" citizen crap is just that, crap. If one of your parent's is a U.S. citizen and you live here and pay taxes here, you are a citizen. This "natural born" citizen stuff is just plain silly. Congressman Posey shouldn't be toying around with people's patriotism. Posey, stop being nosey.
Oh, come on. More of this crap? Are you kidding?
The first step to getting over a past wound is not dwelling on the past. The Republican party would help itself if it didn't spend all its efforts looking backwards and made some attempts to look forward for once. Wake up! ! ! Our country and its citizens deserve better than this.
Amen to Karen Thurman's comments – don't elected officials like Posey have anything better to do? Perhaps he and his ilk could do what what they should be doing if they ever want to garner another vote – work to dig us out of the hole they put us in! As it stands, it seems like potential for productive dialogue and legislation has become the sole property of the dems.
Ooooops, there was one thing I did forget to add in my last posting.
Dear Democrats,
As a Republican I am very sorry I did not give credit to Obama for something he did in his first week in office. He was able to collect $150,000.00 in back taxes..........from his own administration.
One word for individuals like this guy who can't stomach excellence when they see it but have to engage in gutter politics: PATHETIC!
OMG!! here we go again!
Obama's own grandmother says she witnessed Obama's birth in Kenya. Obama's sister and Obama both claim he was born in different hospitals in Hawaii.
Obama's original birth certificate has never been produced.
The issue is simple - who was the doctor that delivered Obama and what was the hospital room number? Someone will win a Pulitizer someday exposing the truth.
These people along with Chuck Norris should be thrown out of the country. If it were a democrat, the right wing media and Campbell Brown whatever she is would be calling for their heads. Talk about sore losers, it's only going to get worse. The majority now sees what you right wingers have done to the country.
why would we take any elected person at their word –
I don't feel this it a Democrat or Republican fight. This would apply to all. so far they all say what you want to hear to get elected.
What would you say if 4 year from now it was proved that Obama was not a citizen? I know I would be asking how that could have happened in the first place.
As a conservative, this is a glorious waste of time. The Constitution already lays out the requirements for office holders! I shudder as as say this but the dems actually make sense on this one! Must be a full blue moon!
First off, President Obama should sue this hack Posey for libel. He produced a U.S. birth certificate; and, unless Posey can PROVE it's a fake, implying that Obama has not proven his status is libelous. Secondly, if the GOP continue concerning themselves with these conspiracy theories while obstructing any attempts at jumpstarting this nation's economy and listening to the likes of Limbaugh, Coulter, and Palin, I have no doubt that the Dems won't have any m hitting 60 Senate seats in 2010.
Both candidates' citizenship was in question, in my humble opinion. Obama for the reasons previously stated, but McCain because he was born in Panama at Coco Solo Naval Hospital. The Panama Canal Treaty stated that the US had control of the Panama Canal Zone "as if it were sovereign..." or words to that effect. "As if it were sovereign" does not seem to met the test for the Canal Zone being part of the United States of America and therefore I would question McCain's citizenship as "natural born citizen".
I see this as a clear question of proof. If I had to provide proof positive of being a US citizen to be a teacher in Texas, why then does a candidate for President have a lower threshold?
Oh Lord, this is getting ridiculous.
No, he is not taking the president's ' word for it', though that would be decent of him.. What he and the other right wingnuts need to accept is the certified evidence from the Hawaii Department of Health. Just as I'm sure proof of citizenship has been provided by every other president and VP since such records have been kept.
Not only is he a citizen he is #1. Re[puublicans get a life
You know, this Repoblicans will stop at nothing to keep the election of 2008 alive and well even when it ended months ago. I guess this economic crisis still left the Republicans with a lot of time in their hands. If they keep these up, they might not have more than a handful left in the Congress,
Mostly republicans? Maybe now, but didn't it start with (and continue) with mostly Hillary supporters? No matter. This bill is still politics at its worse.
Of course it is an antiquated notion that the president must be born in the US anyways......
it is with GOOD REASON that so many are questioning Obama's eligibility! the so-called 'certified birth certificate' he produced on the internet is NOT a b/c, it is a 'Certificate of Live Birth.' at that time, when he was born, these were issued to babies born outside of the US but were then brought to Hawaii. all they required was for ONE relative to vouch for the baby having been born in Hawaii! he could have EASILY been born in Kenya. his own paternal grandmother says she was present at his birth....in KENYA!!!
I suppose when Arnold S wants to run for pres. then the republicans will have to recind this birth certificate law? Its all situational ethics.
Actually it was John McCain that wasn't born in the USA but on a military base in a foreign country, that is if the hospital was actually officially on base. Someone should research this issue. It's typical that people blame others for what they actually do themselves. Way to go Republicans blame others for your own actions.
Has this issue ever come up in American presidential electoral history? I mean, how come its only now we're suddenly all talking about if Obama is a citizen or if we should question the citizenship of a candidate? What is this, a mutant of HUAC?
How come Bush wasn't questioned if he was a citizen, how come Clinton wasn't questioned etc? Notice how this is all coming from the republican side; you know, yeah it sucks to lose but come on, get over it people, he is the president!
Sooo, if the democrates are paying millions of dollars to lawyers to keep it hush hush with the courts...it's got to make a sister think...and why does his relatives Who ARE proud to brag He is born in africa kenya...then why does He not prove it..Who is paying the media to keep the truth from coming out...and why....
I believe Rep. Posey was born on Neptune and is not a natural born citizen. Please show me an original version of Bill Posey's birth certificate, not a certified copy, to prove otherwise. If you show me an original, I will simply claim it is a fake. I will repeat this over and over on the blogosphere and no doubt attract a fair amount of believers. I will then run for office in Florida – and win.
"Mostly Republicans"? How about "only republicans"? – there were just as many, if not more, questions about McCain's citizenship. And Obama produced a birth certificate. There are people who make outrageous claims about everything – pandering to them does not help the country. Has Posey not noticed that the economy needs attention – not this stuff?
Is this man crazy? He should resign immediately from his post, if you STILL question Obama's birth you're either stupid or just want to tear him down with false ideas. Either way we dont need this in congress
Really? When did this happen? The Hawaii courts sealed Obama's records. If Obama did produce a birth certificate, then why is there still a call for him to produce one?
Republicans are slime.
How do I know that my next door neighbor, a republican, wasn't born in Nazi Germany a part of some evil SS breeding program? He should have to produce his birth certificate to prove that he's not Heinrich Himmler's evil spawn. And then when he produces it, I can circulate hateful e-mails that it must be a forgery.
Why don't republicans just stop the nonsense, drop the pretense, and call themselves the neo-confederacy fascist party?
NEXT!!!
These guys nothing better to do! They should resign from congress and let others use their time better than this nonsense.
Stop wasting time Republicans and start working on a platform that might have some relevance in 2012. Maybe then you won't get steam rolled like 08. And by the way, why isn't anyone questioning John McCain's citizenship? He was born in Panama. Regarding people born at U.S. military bases in foreign countries, current U.S. State Department policy reads: "Despite widespread popular belief, U.S. military installations abroad and U.S. diplomatic or consular facilities are not part of the United States within the meaning of the 14th Amendment. A child born on the premises of such a facility is not subject to the jurisdiction of the United States and does not acquire U.S. citizenship by reason of birth." ("Natural born citizens of the United States," Wikipedia). OBAMA WAS BORN IN HAWAII, stop acting like his birth certificate was doctored, I'm sure in all his years in the U.S. someone government agency would have spotted it by now. Even the Supreme Court told someone recently that they were wasting the court's time! So stop wasting the political ticker's space!
OBAMA/BIDEN 2012!
Michelle Obama/Bev Purdue 2016!
Silly controversy but easy to put to rest.
You have to be a natural born citizen to be president, he should show an original certified copy and end this debate once and for all.
In the extraordinary unlikely event the he is not a citizen, then he would be forced to step down or be impeached.
It is a waste to challenge this and a waste that Obama hasn't come up with an original certified copy yet....Doesn't anybody care about our shakey economy?????
This has gone on long enough. Either Obama is a citizen or he isn't. It is time for him to become a man of integrity and show us his records. Otherwise, he is shrouded in doubt and is no agent of "change". I am a teacher, and I had to show my records to become a teacher. He is President of the United States. Why should he be taken at his word when teachers are held to a higher standard of proof? We are becoming a laughing stock while he hides behind his lawyers and feeds the conspiracy theories.
I tend to vote Republican, but I think this is senseless legislation and wasteful of Congress' time and money. Heaven forbid we end up as one socialist party where such a thing might happen, (which, now that I think about it, it is how things appear to be heading) yet I have doubt there would be a candidate where this kind of situation would fall under the radar.
Sure, they're obsessed, but they could have a point in that nipping this in the bud in future elections might be a good idea.
So what if the shoe were on the other foot? If a Republican candidate couldn't produce a birth certificate? We haven't seen one for Trig Palin, is he disqualified if this is not remedied before he grows up?
If a state, such as Hawaii, only releases certified copies and not originals, is that grounds for disqualification? If so, how many states would we still be able to choose a president from?
Take the focus off the particular case of Obama, because the particulars are distracting from the point, and investigate it as a generic, hypothetical case, and see where it leads. Sounds like... journalism.
They don't have one already? I mean, when you're looking for any other job, you have to prove you're eligible. But they don't do that for presidents..? Crazy!!!!!!!!!!!!
Obama's birth certificate has been sealed. Hard copy of this official document should be available for all candidates – especially those who win the top job!
This is so disrespectful to the Commander in Chief. I know this is a free country but sometimes you have to draw the line on what people say, especially if you are an elected official. You should be held to a higher standard and lead by example.
This would be a good and reasonable change to the existing requirements – and could avoid questions that continue to be raised regarding the recent election.
I got a joke for you:
Q: What's the difference between the Democrats and the Republicans?
A: One is a party that wastes money by the trillions, increases the size of government for no good reason, and cares more for party than for country, and the other party is the Democrats.
Once again, here we go. British nationality law extends to people who have one parent. Kenya was a British colony at the time so Barack Obama Sr. would have been seen as a British citizen. If Barack Sr, is British and Ann Dunway, Obama's mother is American, then, at best, it means President Obama (ohh it must burn you Republican's to hear it) has dual citizenship! Yeah, Barack Obama, Jr Prime Minister of England 2016 & President Michelle Obama 2016!
And this guy is up for re election when? Get out your votes people and make this man go away. Enough of his stupid nonsense. He needs to be working for the people he represents, not keeping on with the most insane crap. He is wasting your time and your money.
We need to work together not keep throwing up barriers that get us no where fast.
His mother was a citizen; he is a citizen no matter where he was born. I have a relative whose parents are from two different countries, one the USA, and he was born in a third country. He had citizenship in all three. Some people sound like they are members of the flat-earth society.
It's about darn time someone stood up for the Constitutional requirement regarding the "Natural Born" clause on Presidential qualifications. There aren't to many people in Congress who really care about the founding documents of our great country. Everything from the Magna Carta to the US Constitution is still relevant for today's society. The Constitution should be taken literally word for word. Politicans shouldn't just select what amendments or clauses they like that suits them while throwing out the others.
Alan Keyes, Chuck Baldwin, and Ron Paul are just a few to name who really care about the principles found in the US Constitution. I highly commend them!
I think a candidate producing a birth certificate is a good idea if he/she is required to be a natural born citizen. In fact, I find it hard to believe this policy wasn't already in place. Good thing President Obama already produced his.
In the above article, you wrote:
I just wish you or one of our supposed to be "respected" media people would tell me by what authority you keep reporting that Obama was born in Hawaii. Obama showed a copy of a Certificate of live birth which Hawaii law allows to be issued to citizens who give birth outside their state. This COLB does not list a place of birth, such as a hospital, or any doctor or witnesses. My birth certificate has my place of birth and doctor's name. I have visited the birthplaces of several of our presidents as they traditionally become historic landmarks. I have read of two different hospitals where Obama claimed to be born and quoted by two "respected" journalists. One article was on UPI article and the other by historian, Maraniss, in a newspaper article. This confusion is ridiculous for a media that wants respect. I wrote to the Governor of Hawaii who sent a link to their law and a press release stating they have an original birth certificate on file but will not release it without permission from Obama who won't give it and is spending a fortune fighting in court to keep it from the public who is requesting to see it. Hawaii will not even "verify" which of the above reported statements is true or even say yes or no to birth on Hawaii soil.
The media publishing this "junk" they call facts is almost dead. People will keep digging until they get the truth. When they do, it will be the end of the mainstream media as we used to know it.
This issue is not going away. Only Obama, his wife and Emmanuel as well as his inner circle know the truth about Obama's place of birth. Now wouldn't it be something if it comes to light that Obama was born in a different country. I would say he would have to resign on the spot if that ever happens because then he would have knowingly perpetrated a fraud – if that ever sees the light of day.
the quote from your article above did not print out in my message, please include it before posting my comment. you wrote:
During the presidential campaign, some people — mostly Republicans — questioned whether Obama, who was born in Hawaii, was a U.S. citizen.
They are really reaching. The GOP is so out of reach with what is important in the country. They are sour grapes.
This is very very sad!!!!
Republicans don't have anything else to do but create drama and unnecessary non productive issues! This why they lost in November and if they keep doing what they continue to do, they will lose more elections in the future. The American people are tired of this nonsense!
Last thing, the only people that should be asking for birth certificates is the Native American Indians! According to history, they were here in America a lot longer than anyone else!
Truly sad,
The republicans get all of their sheep believing a falsehood, including friends of mine who should know better, and then cry foul when those of us with a brain didn't bite on the lie. Instead of bringing fear and lies to the table, try bringing the truth....or real values.
How far the republicans fallen!
Nothing wrong with this proposal. I'm actually a little surprised it wasn't the law already. I'd be interested to hear anyone who can give a valid reason that this is a bad idea...
Posey is simply one more narcissistic repub who wishes to nullify the will of the majority by use of worn-out and moronic propoganda techniques.
wow!!!! republicans are showing there true colors!
The next election can't come soon enough to vote more of these republican haters and obstructionists out of office. This ongoing fake birth certificate issue, now being pushed by Posey, shows his lack of substance and concern about the serious issues. Are you paying attention, Florida? Don't forget his name.
It's only in the US Constitution. There's no need to follow the law. When the media chooses their candidate, there is no law. The law applies to everyone else.
These people amaze me. I have seen sore losers but these people are ridiculous. And to think, their candidate McCain was born in PANAMA!
What they really mean is that everyday when they wake up, they have to see a black man running the country and they just can't stomach it. After nearly 400 years in bondage on these shores, an African American is at the top position and these idiots are having a hard time living. It's ugly, but it's the truth about why they are in such a frenzy over this. I mean really, there are 2 wars going on, an ailing economy, broken education, and they spend all their time worrying about this. No wonder their party is breaking up, sinking, and being captained by Uncle Rush and Aunty Coulter.
But on a positive note, the President is tackling mutliple things and that same time and I give him an A. Try and keep up R-Cecala and you might learn something.
It sounds fine to me. Why would any one have a problem with this law?
Now on the other hand if someone had something to hide he/she would be against it.
Why is it Democrats feel Republicans and Citizens should obey laws but not people in there own party?
Just like were told we must pay taxes, but if you happen to be nominated by Obama for like the head of the IRS you can get away with not paying them.
Yes let one of us say we made a mistake on our taxes and find out how fast the IRS will be breaking down your door to take away everything you own.
Two sets of rules folks ones for us, and ones Obama and his party can just skate right under!
This would never be an issue had he just showed everyone his birth certificate.
He still refuses to do that...there's only one reason why.
These two are turning into stalkers.
Rep Posey needs to get a life and start tackling the REAL issues facing this country. What a waste of time.
Seems like a good idea to me. In the next election it will remove the legal challenge. It will be up front.
I wish Obama would just show us his long form, vault birth cert.+
Oh, and Jon played executioner for Obama while Cramer ate humble pie! Obama has dangerously thin skin!
I wish Obama would just show us his long form, vault birth cert.+
Has Congressman Posey been paying attention? Candidate Obama produced a birth certificate. He's a citizen. But that's still not good enough for people who simply don't want to accept that he is president. So I'm not sure what Posey's bill requiring showing a birth certificate is all about - other than to keep this ridiculous issue alive. Surely Florida has more important issues that need the attention of their congressman.
What a sore loser! I think that's all Republicans know how to do other than name calling, criticizing what others have done with goodwill and cheating in elections. Hey, congressman, say all you want before you end up like Mark Foley or Larry Craig!
Fix the voting problems in Florida first. Send this Poser to be interviewed by John Stewart.
More hateful garbage from the right-wing nuts...and those shameless Republicans who cater to them...who are trying to undermine President Obama at every turn. President Obama provided his Hawaii birth certificate...end of story. This effort will get nowhere...nor should it.
The constitution does not state that the Vice President hvae been born in the United States. It says that the President must, but not the Vice President. Leaving the option open for one to be elected Vice President as a citizen of another nation, however they wouldn't be eligable for the Presidency, and leaving the next in the line of secession ( House Speaker/President Pro-tempre of the Senate) as they actualy Vice President.
The GOP still has nothing but smoke and mirrors for their platform
I have a hard time believing this isn't already a law. My son had to produce his birth certificate just to get his driver's permit.
I thought this would have been done already. Shouldn't be an issue unless someone has something to hide.
Who in their right mind takes any politician at their word!!!
Tell me that no other republican as involved with this. What a croc!! The republicans seem to be getting weaker and more misled day by day. Is this guy on the same planet as the rest of us? Millions of job's have been lost and this is the best that this guy can come up with. The November election showed that the majority of Americans thought that the GOP was a farce and stunt's like this are only confirming that fact to the few who doubted it.
Not to question Mr. Posey's patriotism and dedication to his state but Florida should make sure that its reps are at least partly Canadian by birth, seeing as how the Sunshine State is practically "Canada South", being as it's overrun with all those Canadian snowbirds...
Where were you born, Mr. Posey?
Pathetic.
Our constitution requires that a presidential candidate be a legitimate U.S. Citizen. If Obama IS a U.S.citizen, why are so many people concerned that he is not? Why are the democrats becoming so uneasy, if there is nothing to this accusation? Put it to rest by producing an actual legitimate birth certificate. Why all the internet comments regarding Obama's Kenyan grandmother, adamantly claimimg that she was present at obama"s birth in Kenya? Is his grandmother, his Father's mother, being less than truthful? Why all the MYSTERY surrounding this issue? There should be no questions or doubts.Open and above-board, right?
Posey is a fool who should be removed from office.
Oh, my dear Republicans... the two- year campaign has ended... you lost the election in a landslide. Unlike 2000, this one wasn't even close... you got trounced. No amount of your whining will change that. Move on. The world has.
Obama is a natural born US citizen as is clearly stated, "Obama's mother was a U.S. citizen", which automatically makes him a US citizen. Period. Lets quit wasting our time and instead spend time fixing real problems like the economy.
Scott
Sorry, but this should be no big deal if you have a valid birth certificate as being born in the US is one of the requirements to run for the Presidency. Dont people always say that it is no big deal if you have nothing to hide?
not TRYING to fan the flames? no, he's just doing it. These Republicans really DO think we are stupid
John McCain never produced his birth certificate either and he was born outside the U.S. in the Panama Canal Zone. One wonders if Congressman Posey would have introduced the same law if McCain had won. Republicans are such hypocrites.
u got to be kidding
This is from the same party that wanted to remove term limits when Nixon was president so he could rule as long as they could get him elected. Watergate killed that. And recently those same Republicans were talking about removing the requirement for being a natural born American so Arnold Swartzeneger (a naturalized American) could be elected President. Perhaps they should just come out and admit that the only people they think should be allowed to run for President are old white men who have voted the straight Republican ticket for at least twenty years and are willing to pander to the ultimate right wing of the Republicans at that.
I'm just saying.
This is terrible. Republicans YOU LOST GET USED TO ITTTTTTTTT!
Congressman Posey said that "Opponents of President Bush used the 2000 election results and the court decisions to question the legitimacy of President Bush to serve as President," Posey said in a statement. "Opponents of President Obama are raising the birth certificate issue as a means of questioning his eligibility to serve as president. Neither of these situations are healthy for our Republic". He actually has a very good point although there is a clear difference between two presidents. The President Bush was born a natural US citizen so there should be no question about him whatsoever. By contrast, the problem for President Obama will linger long even after he leaves the office. The constitution should be amended to clarify this issue.
Do you know a birth certificate can be fake too. So what's the point?
HE WON THE ELECTION, GET OVER IT!!!
If you were born in Hawaii (4 August 1961 for Pres. Obama), which when I last checked was one of the 50 states of the United States since 1959, then you were a naturalized U. S. citizen. Please let us stop this nonsense and concentrate on making the United States of America the great country that she is.
The economy's in trouble, people are losing jobs, we need a record economic stimulus, our education system is falling further behind the rest of the world (so we're less competitive), our banking system needs major reform, etc. etc. . . . and all this Republican can think of to do is by implication) to ask for the President's birth certificate? You've got to be kidding! I've read criticism that Republicans don't get it, but this is a new attempt to achieve total irrelevance.
hear we go again wont they check the birth certificates of all former presidents, im sure some of the former white presidents were immigrants from other countries, and is Hawaii a state if not then i guess all citizens of hawaii are not u.s. citizens?
Are you serious? With all the problems this country is facing right now– THIS is what republicans want to focus on- looney conspiracy theories and pointless legislation? This is past obstructionism and well into insanity.
This is the typical crap you see from the GOP. They don't deserve to function as an opposition party they are a band of sore looser and cry babies. Grow up and get serious our country needs a truly loyal opposition and not a talk show radio mentality.
"Opponents of President Bush used the 2000 election results and the court decisions to question the legitimacy of President Bush to serve as President,"
I guess that was ok – but question the legitimacy of Obama to serve as President and the democrats are up in arms! Talk about a double standard. What's good for one President (disrespect, hatred, bashing) is good for the next President. Democrats can dish it out but certainly cannot take it.
Every American born in the United States is given a birth certificate so it shouldn't be a big deal for Obama to produce his birth certificate. Let's just shut everybody up right now – produce your birth certificate Obama!
what a waste of time
Frustrated, eh? You don't get more childish than this. I say go ahead and accept this new legislation. Like always, it'll only affect those who he'd truly want in office. Perhaps he'll try to amend his own legislation when his guy can't produce a birth certificate. This is too funny! These guys are looking like circus clowns right about now.
This the dumbest thing I have ever heard. If your mother is a US citizen...you are a US citizen regardless of where you were born. John McCain was born in Panama to US citizen parents, but not on American soil. This such a waste of time and energy. Maybe the Florida constituents that take issue with this should address many employers requirements that you must speak be bilingual to work for their company. Maybe challenging this might put some dent in Florida's unemployment rates.
If Obama is legit why did he and the Democratic party fight so hard to avoid proof? Unlike most natural born Americans there were a lot of legitimate questions raised about where he was born (Kenya as his grandmother said) or Hawaii. Was his citizenship given up when his step father, a Muslim, moved to Indonisia as Obama's Muslim school papers state? Indonisia did not allow non-Muslims to attend school there yet he attended school. Don't these questions legitimately need to be answered? I think so.
Come on posey. We know u don't want obama as prez but its too late. Comparing the 2000 election to this is a bad comparison. No ballots were destroyed no election stolen. If this is all u have time for leave the government. Tax payers shouldn't have to pay u so u can attack the prez and pursue your own agenda. Let's work on getting people back to work. Stop hating!!!!!
Oh please! Just another politician trying to put his name in history's book. Makes no sense.
We finally have a president that cares about the American people and once again you have the Republican party wanting to screw that up. Why can't we just have special elections and FIRE these republicans from office for submitting stupid legislation and wasting our taxpayer money. And if the Republicans truly want to help why don't they introduce legislation requiring all members of Congress to take a paycut that would build confidence in our so called leader; I am considering running for public office simply because I think our elected officials are not doing there job.
The Constitution requires that a president or a vice president be "a natural born citizen."
I agree with Congressman Posey. This legislation needs to be passed. We have spent almost three years of serious questions being asked about Obama being eligible for the Presidency. We whould never have to go through this again. If the President has nothing to hide it would have been a simple matter to produce his original birth certificate, instead of spending millions to keep it hidden along with college records and everything else that would show who he really is. This has been a huge distraction the whole time he has been in office. I say Never Again...Pass the Legislation.