CNN

It's not that Powell's angry at Limbaugh for being the one guy to have the guts to explain the reasoning behind Powell's endorsement of Obama. It's that Limbaugh is angry at Powell for being yet another prominent Republican to say that Limbaugh is becoming increasingly irrelevant.

Okay. Then I guess it's safe to say that every white man that Limbaugh voted for was based soley on race.

Powell is right.
Limbaugh is taking entertainment to a place that makes the GOP a radical fringe group. This is not helpful for the GOP or America.

I don't think Powell is someone that Limbaugh should take on, because Powell will not say "I'm sorry" or "I respect him, but"...

@ Dutch in VA, who said "If anything, Gen. Powell should be the leader of the Republican Party."

Hey now...watch it buddy...don't go giving them good ideas.

Another day, another shot in the dark from Rush.

He himself said not 10 days ago that McCain and his daughter should leave the Republican party along with specter, and now he's criticizing Powell for not backing McCain, claiming he went with Obama based on race?

Rush, you yourself only supported McCain because he was a member of your party, even though you clearly have no respect for his policies or principles. Stop being a hypocrite, everything that comes out of your mouth is only digging the grave of the GOP further.

If you're not straight ticket republican you're not welcome in the modern GOP and are a 'dirty socialist'.

Rush and his buddies can call the rest of us Americans socialist all they want. I'll take socialism over fascism any day.

I don't believe Powell's endorsement of Obama was based solely on race.

I do, however, believe that Limbaugh's comments are.

While hatred may be a powerful uniting force, if the Republican Party wants to win over the country again, it needs to demonstrate that it can offer the country something more constructive than muck-raking.

The Republican Party better wake up and stop bowing down to people like Rush. Powell and Specter are just two examples of what's going on in the Republican Party. I grew up in a family of Republicans. My dad and I being the only Democrats. I can name at least 15 family members who voted for the Democrats this time. I don't see the Republican party coming back for a long time because they will never go against the extreme Christian right. If they did that they would never win in the primaries.

I say Hooray for Colin Powell. Finally someone in the GOP has the guts and the good sense to see and openly declare the damage that Limbaugh is doing, with his incessant and increasingly divisive rhetoric. If he had his way, he would expel everyone in the party more moderate than George W and himself, and the party would be so narrow and exclusive that it would lose any last remaining shreds of relevance.

Is it racist when whites vote and endorse whites? HMMMM? Racist because whites vote white. Yep sounds good to me!!!

The irony is that the right wing (e.g., Limbaugh) 1) is driving the last remaining moderates out of the party, but 2) without moderates, the party will remain a regional one with very little national power.

Limbaugh and his ilk are why the Republican party is on the outside looking in. He is an idiot.

The Real Issue is that Limbaugh rants and raves without a clue to what the American public is looking for. He is to the extreme right and America is not. Limbaugh is continuously pulling down the Republican party and that's all right, because the party is out of the mainstream.

i can't decide who is more entertaining at this point! Rush the vile, disgusting blowhard entertainer or the Republican Party?

As a life-long Democrat, I have mixed feelings about this. On the one hand, I love seeing Rush trash an upstanding Republican every day. It's Rush's way, or the highway! Very inclusive.

On the other hand, I believe we need at least a two party system in this country and Rush and Palin and Joe the Plumber are collapsing the GOP into a party that will never hold power again. That, to me, is a shame.

PS: If you can watch Rush mock Michael J. Fox, I guess you can watch anything. But when I watch it, all I see is a sad, abusive little bully.

I really do not understand why this is even news worthy. Rush has a selective audience and Powell is looking for job. Since neither one is in control of any party, who cares?

Really Bob? Only an entertainer? So why when any Republican says anything even remotely critical of him do they always seem to go crawling on their hands and knees begging forgiveness of him? Powell, I'm betting, will let Rush stew in his own juices rather than even acknowledging his retort.

IMO, Powell is one of the only figure from the Bush Administration I have any modicum of respect for; he realized he'd been a patsy and resigned rather than have to deal with them for the next four years.

Oh, what an absolute hypocrite...and a coward! Regardless of his political identification, Colin Powell has done more to serve this country and put his life on the line than Rush has EVER done! Mr. wrap-yourself-in-the- flag and claim patriot, Rush Limbaugh, was too chicken to put on a uniform and grab a rifle—put his butt on the line— and really fight for his country the way Colin Powell did without reservation or discussion!
He needs to be careful about whom he condemns when he'd NEVER put his butt where his mount is...I bet if the truth were known, the majority of his listeners have NO MILITARY SERVICE—they were too scared of getting shot at!!!

Yep, We should listen to a radio entertainer as opposed to a former four star general and secretary of state. Oh wait, I don't have to listen to that idiot Limbaugh, I'm a democrat.

Rush is a conservative and NOT a republican. He tells his audiance this all the time. When will people begin to listen.

It seems when you become a racist, the mind is the first thing to go. It also seems they are having second thoughts about their 'color blind' decision to make Steele the Republican Chairman. Today they stripped him of his control of RNC funds, and he's not at any of the Rebuild, Retool, Rebrand the Republican Party Meetings. It seems the further right they the Repubs go, where won't be room for people like Steele or women..lol

If Limbarf believes Powell endorsed Obama based on race, then it seals the case. Limbarf is AN IDIOT. I watched Powell explain the reasons he endorsed Obama. They was logical, relevant and TRUE. He was best suited for the job as he is now showing us. Being an ex-POW, as honest as he is, was no reason for anyone to vote for McCain. He just does not have the qualifications. Limbarf has been eating nothing but sour grapes. He is the worst thing that could have happened to the GOP. They should denounce and get as far away from him as they could if they are ever to regain any semblence of reason for their party.

You got to be kidding me. Rush wants Colin Powell to leave the Republican party and to join the Democratic Party just because Powell had the guts to say that the Repugs were being overrunned by far right extremist. The man spoke the truth, you may not like it, but he spoke the truth. Instead of advocating his removal from the repugs party, Rush should be embracing Powell as a viable alternative to Obama and recruit him to run in 2012. It would be a tough choice for me, but I could see myself voting for Powell. In fact I can invision many moderate democratics voting for Powell.

Limbaugh is simply an entertainer – that's it.

I agree with Rush. The Republican party should be reduced to only those people who agree with him, Rush Limbaugh. A party of one. A very big tent, though.

...because alienating prominent figures is a great way to revitalize an ailing political party.

Responce to "David in Houston"
I think the Republican party would have done better if they did not have Sarah Palin as the VP nomination. We all know she was not John McCains pick and was thrown in there to win the disgruntled Hillary supporters.

The country, not just the Republican party would be better without Rush; but as long as Americans and the press continue to listen to his show, cover his ridiculous statements and as long as advertisers continue to advertise on his station and show, we are stuck with him; what is the last positive thing you heard from him?

You all have to admit that Rush is right about so many things. For instance, 58 MILLION people voted against Obama with the weakest Republican candidate ever! And what is really funny, is that over 20 MILLION people listen to Rush every day, yet liberal radio and tv can't compete. Centrism is what has put this country where it is. It's taken responsibility from individuals and placed it in the governments hands. Tell me ONE program the government has run that at least breaks even and shows real results! Medicare/Medicaid costs are astronomical, education sucks and they still want more money, trillions in additional spending and nothing has improved, head start is nothing but government funded daycare and my 'tax cut' from Obama will cost me when I file my taxes because it's a payroll tax deduction, not income tax deduction.

Change we can believe in???

I'm a liberal through and through. I listen to Rush's progressive views everyday.

limpball is an entertainer, NOT a politician, he never served this country, he never went to college, and he is a pill popping idiot! I am so confused what the right worships this pig for...OH well he is no threat to the Dems, hes our saving grace! Thank you rush for making the Dems stronger than ever...

PLEASE!!!!! Keep talking Rush!
To borrow a line from ZuZu Baily,
"Every time a Rush speaks, a Republican becomes a Democrat."
Great comedy. REALLY.

Oh, Rush! You are the funniest on radio and I have never listened to you! Why is it I don't care what you think or believe? Next!.....

Rush is no different than Olberman, but unfortunately Repubs have let the Dems and the media define him as the leader of the party. Until they can break away from that stigma he will continue to do damage with those that can be swayed from one party to another.

Flabbergasting.

"Rick May 6th, 2009 4:14 pm ET

Colin Powell is an Uncle Tom of the democrat party."

Amazing to hear people like Rick and Rush are also the people who say race is a non-issue in this country anymore.

The Dems would be happy to have Powell join us, but honestly a healthy GOP – rather than the mangled, lumbering monstrosity of social conservatism and anti-intellectualism that calls itself the party today – is more necessary for this country.

To steal from Ross Perot:

That sucking sound you hear is the sound of the Republican party imploding.

Limbaugh has now trashed the person in the Bush administration who probably had the most INTEGRITY.

Who are you going to believe, an honorable ex-Army officer, or a draft dodging, lying paid entertainer? I'll go with Mr. Powell on this one. Perhaps the dittiots will go with Limburger

I think its really interesting that Rush would say that Gen. Powell endorsed President Obama simply because they both are black. Using that same limited scope, it is not a leap to say Rush supported McCain simply because he is white. The ability to lead is not something that you acquire by living a long time but can be a lot more intangible. Gen Powell has been a leader of men for 40 years and he saw in Obama that ability to do something transcendent versus simply pushing along the status quo. McCain and Powell are brothers in arms and I know that was a tough call for him to make. What has Rush ever done for America and not just $400 million dollar Rush?

Rush belongs with KKK on the margin of the society. He is a home grown terrorist and his ammo is the acid he spills.
LOL – who cares what he said. People, let's concentrate on positive, leave him be, without your attention he has no voice – just ignore him.

so according to Rush Limbaugh's "logic" he endorsed McCain/Palin even though he didn't like McCain, soley because they were WHITE. So if a minority endorses another minority candidate it's soley because of race. Now I get it..I guess I've been going about it the wrong way all these years.

And all you right wing losers calling Gen Powell an Uncle Tom and weak more than likey aren't even worthy to sit in the same room with him less known be a general.

Rush Limbaugh is single handedly destroying the Republican party.

I see that Rush Limbaugh has pulled the wool over many of your eyes. At the end of the Roman Republic, many enemies of Caesar called for him to be crowned king – not because they wanted it, but because they knew that it would create a backlash against Caesar.

If most of you were only smart enough to realize it, you'd see that Rush is secretly destroying the Republican party, just as Caesar's enemies plotted to destroy him, by pretending to exalt him. Rush is a secret liberal who has become a saboteur in the Conservative camp!

Go, Rush, Go!

Rush... Rush... Rush. If ever there were a sniveling, sour caricature of a buffoon you're it.

It's no wonder those who believe in this oaf are known as "dittoheads". Such people have limited intellect and are unencumbered by rational thought. Sadly, so many people hang upon every word that drips from his mealy mouth...

Where did C Powell say he voted for Obama cause he's Black? He vote for the half white!

So what if Powell only endorsed Obama because of his race. How is that any different than the thousands of white people around the country who wouldn't vote for the guy because of that very reason.

How could Colin Powell be playing the race card? He disagreed with Bush and left long before Obama was even in the picture.
Or do you not remember?

Rush is Right. We need to stick to our core beliefs as Conservatives. We have been to quick the past few years to give in to what the main stream media deems "the politically correct" thing to do.

Limbaugh is the gift that keeps on giving to the Democratic Party. He raises more $$ and persuades more people to vote Democratic than any candidate could.

Rush is a scary, mean, hateful person, but he's out in the open where you can keep an eye on him....the really really scary people are the ones that agree with him, and follow his lead, and are not in the open ..kinda like the KKK

Well maybe it isn't polite to say but I think we know why Powell supported Obama. According to polls, there was a 95% chance he would support Obama as opposed to McCain. I like those odds.

Mr. Limbaugh, you sure would agree that President Reagan was a Republican. But would you believe that President Reagan would consider you a Republican ? I think he would consider you a neonazi. You are almost as far right from Reagan as you are from Obama.

Seems like Rush Limbaugh spends an awful lot of time talking about people's motives and race. Perhaps that's because Limbaugh is a closet racist?

I wish CNN would do the right thing and just ignore the imbicile Rush completely. I wish this stupid fat idiot Lumberjerk would shut up and go away already.

Same old Bushian mode of operation: you're with the GOP-base or your against America and the entire GOP.

News flash to Rush and the angry GOP-base: America is, and the GOP should be, much grander than you can imagine.

Rush Limbaugh is not fit to polish General Powell's shoes.

Well! Well! here we go again. Rush didn't take his meds today. Why is when a Black Person like Powell's decision to endorse President Obama over John McCain during the presidential election, Powell's move was "solely based on race." Everybody has a right to chose during the election. Powell said the "the Republican Party is in deep trouble not only did the former secretary of state other Republican said this.

WHY do people continue to listen to what Rush Hypocrite has to say?!?!

Rush should have a kingdom of his own. He needs to take his people to an island in desert somewhere............Go away.

I say this as a liberal.

Are we liberals paying Limbaugh for this or something? I love that man, he's the best guy we have on my side.

CNN- Why do you give this idiot any credibility by repeating his ramblings?
By doing so you make it seem as though we are supposed to listen to what he says as if he has expertise on something. All he has is misguided opinions and like a certian body part- we all have one of those!

So Rush is quick to say Powell endorsed Obama based on race but won't entertain the notion that possibly anyone of the high up ups that endorsed McCain also did so based on race. Hypocrisy at its best.

Thanks Rash!
You are hastening the demise the GOP, something the Democrats could never, ever hope to do.

You are good for something after all, (besides being a methane dispenser)!

Rush is amazing. He tells one of the most thought and respected Republicans to leave the party.

I have the utmost respect for Colin Powell. When you add up the tab as to what individual has done the most for his country its no contest. Limbaugh has did nothing for this country. Limbaugh is a cancer, a bigot, a hypocrite and a coward. Limbaugh had a chance to serve his country and begged out of the military with boil on his ass. Limbaugh does nothing but tear things down. He has no idea how to build on things except for hate and intolerance. If Republicans want a man, a real man to follow and set the example they can look to Powell. If you look to LImbaugh you are looking into a cesspool of negatism. Not a way to build strength in a political party.

I'd love to ask any republican how a black man could endorse Obama without being accused of the decision being based solely on race by Rush.

John Cole at Balloonjuice said it best when he asked, "is the Republican Party now small enough that it could be drowned in a bathtub?" Maybe not yet, but it's gettin' there...

What do you know, I finally agree with Rush on something. Has Hell frozen over?

The fact that Rush is convinced that the ONLY reason Powell voted for Obama is because of race just shows how ignorant and foolish he is.

Colin Powell rocks! He and Meghan McCain may save the GOP yet. As long as they can toss blowhard far right wing extremists like Tub 'O Lard Limbaugh out of the party on his keester.

Herr Rush you're sounding a little Third Reich-ish, who made you the decider on who belongs in the Party. I heard General's Powell's explanation regarding his endorsement of Candidate Obama at no time did he bring race into it. He did note McCain's poor judgement in choosing Ms. Palin, we know how you feel about McCain, so you must be defending Miss Sarah's honor hoping beyond hope that she notices you. As a die hard Democrat I say keep being you Rush, embrace the crazies, at least 20% are still listening.

Why in this world do we care what Rush say's, he is only trying to get ratings, thats it. He cares nothing about America, and anybody that follows this hate is crazy. I can not believe that the Republican party is this weak to allow a man like Ruch to have any say about what they do or don't do. The Republican party is here to serve the people and they need to start acting like that, not self serving and serve the people.

well, I must say I have to agree with rush. I don't think there is any better way to say it. And cnn I was surprised to see you ran footage of the plane over NY. Good for you! for once you showed the "other side" od the obama admin. I must say, no bull! It's about time!!!!!!!!!!!!! Now if you could just do that with all stories.

If anyone disagrees with portions of the Rush Republican Party Platform (about the size of a 6AA shoe box), Rush suggests that they leave the party. Keep going Rush, as they're a leaving faster than your mouth flaps.

I begging The GOP to continue listening to the likes of Rush. Oh my dreams are coming true....I'm so happy the GOP is busting at the seems and glad to hear people like Rush Limbaugh demean Colin Powell...It gives me great satisfaction know that someone who never put on the uniform can try and put himself in the same league as Colin...It's just awesome...I'm about to cry because I love to see the GOP fracture after all this time.

Limbaugh to Powell: 'Become a Democrat'

If anyone needs to know who's really running the GOP, you have your answer above.

So much for the "big tent" myth.

thatk god for people like Rush .....the democrats will rule the white house as long as he is around !!!

Rush Limbaugh is as great an American as I know of. You liberal democrats will only realize that after Obama the thug drives this country in the ground and you will be looking for food at the junk yard. Just wait and see. Your problem is that you listen to and believe all the media pro Obama BS.

Rusn,

So if Collin Powell's only reason for voting for Barrack Obama for President was that he was Black. What was your (Rush) reason for voting for John McCain? If was for his stance and policies then maybe, just maybe he felt the same about president Obama like many other people.

Colin,

You are such a smart and decent guy but you don't seem to understand one BASIC LITTLE thing

– Limbaugh IS the financial backbone of our party!!!! The entertainer, you say, is the bread winner and so ALL the mudhapakkahs have to listen to him- get it????

Reforming GOP – I have lost it already – forget it. As long as Boehner and Mcconell are there, we can't do it!!

Mike from Vancouver BC May 6th, 2009 4:04 pm ET

That's right Limbaugh, kick out all the moderates and you'll have exactly the party you want.
---------------

Moderates get you LIBERALISM since they spend their entire time pandering to the left. Godd ridence. Powell is no Republican.

What is it, unless you preach hate and seperation you can't be a republican? This Idiot will say anything to get in the news.

Can we shut this guy up? I am a Republican and I am sick of here Limbaugh talk. He sits there and talks trash about all the other Republicans and HE is the one that is dividing the party. However, CNN seems to think that he is the leader of the Republican party and he definitely isn't. They are clearly bias because whenever he speaks, they seem to write a lengthy article about it. Who cares? Nobody pays attention to him anymore but CNN sees the opportunity to beat a dead horse and exploit the Republican Party.

It is amazing to me how many conservative talk show host and their followers think black people voted for Obama cause he's black. There have been many black men that have run for President. Al Sharpton was on the Ballot in 2004. Did black people vote for him? And he has a lot of Black support but NOT for President. So let me explain it to you. Black people ARE EDUCATED voters. We vote for intelligent people who we think will represent our Political Ideology. Every time the BIG MOUTH self important Rush opens his mouth he helps keep the Republican Party even further away from Most minorities.

Nice CNN headline: "Takes Aim", and "fires back"! How about "Challenges", since Powell has a lot to explain himself, although no one asks him the questions? Oh, that wouldn't fit with James Carville's "hate" story line that he and the complicit press are fomenting about Repubs, and especially Rush and Sarah. Rush's comments were spot on, not the least bit hateful, and beg that Powell repond to some of these legitimate issues.

Rush is so good at speaking to people that live foe race issues. It give him a very good pay check. Ignorant ones that can't see that America has changed as the world has, are the people we must live with. these people can't see that Rush really don't care for them,just his next check,while they only wait to die.

Wow. How did politicians allow for this radio blowhard to be the Republican kingmaker. Republicans are so afraid of Rush and his millions of listeners. They're afraid of losing their "base" if Rush decides to turn against them.

It's rather scary in this country when an uneducated, drugg-addict bigot wields more political power than elected officials. The Republican leadership allowed this to happen.

Limbaugh's dirty fear is showing. He's terrified about his pending irrelevancy. He has wallowed in his pigsty of being the "banner carrier" for the Republicans and thus now that the GOP is starting to rethink itself, he's desperately clutching to his 'leadership' role. In other words, he knows they are about to give him the old heave-ho and he thinks that by getting uglier and even more shrill, he somehow can forestall this. I kind of hope he succeeds, because I'd like to see the Repubs continue to be unwanted, unneeded and irrelevant for years to come, but most of them have just GOT to find him sickening and they know that if they keep yielding to him and the nutcases who slavishly dote on his every word, they will remain the Big Losers that they are at the present. Not ALL of them are that stupid...

I agree with Powell, I hate Limberger and he is ruining MY PARTY.

We need to include people that we agree with MOST of the time and not just stick to some STUPID setforth doctrine, we need to enlarge our base and that should include people that don't alawys agree with you 100 percent of the time.

The only person I agree with 100 percent of the time is ME, so should I only include single like minded people in my world, HELL NO.

Shut up Limaugh, your way "aint" working, time to move on with Michael Steele and his moderate vision of what a Conservative can be.

Of course, Limbaugh would call for Powell to become a Democrat...Powell threatens his position of power in the GOP.

Powell is a sensible and intelligent man who was victimized by the Bush Administration. Imagine lying to your Secretary of State to get him to go along with a war that didn't meet the Powell Doctrine?

For those of you who don't know what that is, Colin Powell developed a series of questions ALL of which had to be answered affirmatively before military action was called for. He based it on the criteria developed by Casper Weingarten, Sec of Defense under President Reagan. Those questions are:
1) Is a vital national security interest threatened?
2) Do we have a clear attainable objective?
3) Have the risks and costs been fully and frankly analyzed?
4) Have all other non-violent policy means been fully exhausted?
5) Is there a plausible exit strategy to avoid endless entanglement?
6) Have the consequences of our action been fully considered?
7) Is the action supported by the American people?
Do we have genuine broad international support?

If Colin Powell had known the truth of the intelligence the President and Vice President had, he would never have agreed to argue for the invasion of Iraq. He was fired/resigned when he found out the truth - and when it became obvious that questions 3,5,6, and 8 could never be answered affirmatively.

its amazing that someone who has not contributed or aided anyone but himself could be taken serious enough to have a voice. Its really sad. Rush is the eastbound end of a westbound horse....

When has Rush Limbaugh done anything worthwhile in his lifetime?
He is not worthy to wipe the rear of Colin Powell but criticizes him? You are a waste – why anyone listens to your hate filled and unintelligent rants is beyond me.

I know several people who have left the democratic party as I have., becoming republicans. That was back in our ignorant days. Glad I know where I need to be.

Yup, another moderate that Rush wants out of the GOP. Not much longer until the Republicans become another fringe party. Either we'll be a one party system in 4 years, or a three party system (Dems, Reps and a third moderate party), but regardless, the GOP will be finished as a major party if they keep moving to the right and kick out the middle.

Call me crazy... but I LOVE Rush Limbaugh!

He is doing all of America a service... by driving the GOP completely off the political cliff and making sure it will be seen by any rational American as nothing but a party of close-minded rednecks, radical racists & mentially insane white collar criminals!

Between Obama's brillance and leadership and Rush Limbaugh showing the true face of the GOP... It is safe to say the party of of "NO" is doomed to stay irrelevant for the forseeable future...

...oh and Republicans... please, please run Sarah Palin as Obama's opposition in 2012... PLEEZE!!!

Why anyone pays attention to, or give credence to anything Limbaugh says is totally beyond comprehension. He is an obese,cigar puffing, drug addict whose only claim to fame is to be able to talk via the media and influence educationally and intellectually challenged people into following his hate filled rantings and dogma. What is even more ludicrous, is the fact that people actually love the moron and believe what he says to be the gospel of the GOP.

How he can be critical of anyone who has served his country as illustriously as Colin Powell, is totally absurd. Colin Powell is much to dignified and honorable to lower himself to the level of sewer crawling that Limbaugh performs daily.

rush says powells endosement of obama was based solely on race, and rush's endorsement of mccain was based on?????....c'mon rush, other than running ur mouth, what have you done for this country?

I know Colin Powell loves America. Limbaugh loves Limbaugh. Sickening that Limbaugh has control of the Republican party. I am coming to loathe anything to do with Republicans. As a fiscal conservative, my best bet is to join the democrats and support the blue dogs and take power away from the liberals from within.

Rush is absolutely correct about Colin Powell, as he is about most things.

Wow, this just gets better and better. Forget all the supposed "re-branding" the GOP is trying to do. They'd be in much better shape if they'd find a way to shut Limbaugh up. All he does is alienate everybody and make the party seem even more whacked-out than usual.

On second thought... maybe he should keep it up. That should keep the far right from ever regaining control of the United States.

Rush Limbaugh does more for the progressive cause than any liberal. I admit, I listen to him and enjoy all the outlandish things he says. His logic is so crazy, that sometimes I laugh out loud. Some of my colleges hear him on my computer and ask, "what the hell are you listening to." I laugh and say, "he keeps my blood pressure elevated." I hope he continues to spout his hate for liberals and now moderates because that will insure the Republican party will not make a quick resurgence.

Ever notice how everybody Limbaugh hates is someone who's actually done something in service of this country? Powell is a general, served in the military. Limbaugh has never done ONE THING for this country. He's never done anything for anyone but himself, and the way he lines his pockets is by setting American against American, trying to make people suspicious and hateful of their own fellow countrymen. Why anyone listens to him is beyond me. Rush should be ashamed of himself... but I think he's too sociopathic to feel things like shame.

Oh well, I hope he keeps talking... he'll destroy what's left of the Republican party, and since they don't seem to know how to lead, that could be a good thing.

You go Rush!! Freedom of Speech is not one-sided. powell just doesn't like to be held accountable.

Go Rush Go !!!!! You are doing a fantastic job of single handedly destroying what is remaining of the Republican party. I guess he doesn't want to let Sarah Palin have all the credit!

I want to thank Rush, from the bottom of my heart, for his tireless efforts to single-handedly destroy the Republican party.

My hat's off to you, Rush.

yes, Please do!!!!!!!

Rush has as much right to his opinions as the next person. While he's hardly qualified to carry General Powell's jock strap, Rush is nonetheless entitled and more than capable to share his opinions.

One post says "Maybe we do need a middle party that has the economic policies of the Republicans but with more of the social interests of the Democrats."

We do. it's called the Libertarian Party and has been in existence since 1971. It is socially inclusive and fiscally conservative. The Libertarian Party advocates for fewer taxes, smaller government, a free market economy, personal liberty and minding our business overseas whenever possible.

If the Republican party plans on having a successful future, I would STRONGLY RECOMMEND that someone staple Limbaugh's mouth shut quickly!

He is ruining the Republican party everytime he opens his mouth!

The more he talks, the stronger the Democratic party becomes.

Keep talking Limbaugh. You just help us out more!!! =)

It's obvious that Powell enjoys being kicked around by the Republican Party. Anyone with half a brain would have jumped ship a long time ago. Powell's legacy will reflect a limp noodle who has no guts.

I departed from the GOP in 2004 for my own reasons.
I now look at the GOP as a political party that is being held hostage by the neo-con right wing religious nuts.
At some point the GOP will rise again as a seperate party from what it is today and leave the remnants of the old GOP to the neo-cons.
Then the old rich white guys can sit around and talk to each other about the good old days and let the rest of the country get on with it.

I swear...you could not pay me enough money to say I was a Republican! With the likes of Rush and Sarah spewing their hate...no thanks.

Proud Democrat...forever and always!!

To the people who claim Oh Rush he's just a sideshow and most republicans actually think he's a joke. Having said that just about every republican even moderates won't dare critcize Fat Boy because
he'll just trash them to all his red neck bible thumping listeners.

Kudos to a Moderate Republican like Powell to put Hush Limpaugh
in his place. You know people like Cantor, Romney, and others wouldn't dare criticize the Republican Czar Fat boy has become to them. Look What happened when steele said some things about him.
I think it took about 2 seconds to cower up to the Mighty Fat head.

Thanks General Powell for saying what needed to be said just hope you don't back down

Rush is very instrumental in actually defining the Republican Party. He helps to give it it's substance in the world. Having said that, he's not doing the party any favors and never has. I for one would gladly welcome Colin Powell into the Democratic Party. What a difference in substance from Rush !!!

Rush Limbaugh should be kissing the hand of heroes like Colin Powell. It is disturbing that people that do not have the nerve to serve the country should be so quick to throw stones.

Gen. Powell has earned the right to speak his mond. All Rush has done is oxy-cotton and complain.

I am astounded that anyone would listen to him (Rush Limbaugh) pontificate in the first place. He is obviously angry with life in general and is simply a sad man.

Thank you
Brett Getter
New Jersey

Gee, let's see... Powell or Limbaugh.... who is more credible..?

Powell is such a class act. I haven't always agreed with him but he is a loyal American who has done nothing but serve his country with integrity. I also believe that his centrist views are very much aligned with a big chunk of U.S. voters. I agree with those here who say let Limbaugh go after Powell. It just shows how shallow, shrill, disconnected and intellectually bankrupt conservatives are.

Rush is a sad man who is very good a deflecting his own short comings onto other people. Rush is after all just talk and no action, like a barking dog that just annoys the hell out of everyone who happens to just be walking by. Take a chill pill old boy.

Everyone is telling Rush to get lost, but since he has the Number #1 radio talk show in the USA, he isn't going nowhere. The question is what does that say about Americans and our mindstate?

While I don't agree with Rush Limbaugh most of the time, I find that I agree with Colin Powell even less! Limbaugh is right: Colin Powell is embarassing, and all of us would be better off if he would leave the Republican party and join the Democrats.

While I respect the Office of President of the United States, I certainly do not think that Barack Obama is qualified to serve as President. In fact, Obama has proven that he is not competent by his lackluster support of the National Day of Prayer and by his disgusting support of abortion in this country.

Nevertheless, we Christians must pray for Barack Obama, and we must respect his position. I will continue to pray for all our government leaders, and for all the very confused people who will read what I have written and disagree with me.

At least Rush is making statements and stands for something; flip flopping on issues and saying "we can try to look at [insert program of choice here]" to win votes is not in the best interests of this country. Spending our way out economic turmoil is the exact reason behind our current credit crunch. No one wants to hear the words fiscal responsibility, because it purchases the Toyota Camry instead of the Cadillac Escalade, it purchases DiGiorno Pizza for home instead of Fillet Mignon at Ruth-Chris, it purchases shoes from DSW and not BCBG on Michigan Avenue. Key word: responsibility!!!!!!

I lost all respect for Powell and Mr. Limbaugh is right on this one!

Endorsing and now supporting a guy who shows no respect for our national anthem, a guy who has had a long history of involvement with radical individuals, who has made fun of a hard-working average American, simply because he dared to ask a valid question, a guy who is totally unqualified to lead the most powerful country in the world and who’s not able to give a speech at a Sunday barbecue without reading from a screen.
I have to agree, Powell made his decision purely based on race.

I am a republican that voted for Obama. I think this is a lot like a dictator wanting to single out conservative view points and call it his own party. What happened to platforms. If you want a conservative republican party go out and form your own party and call it something else. Nobody will ever see eye to eye on exactly every issue within party.

I agree wholeheartedly. In fact, I think Rush Limbaugh should be the spokesperson for the republican party forever, at least over the next few election cycles. The republican party NEEDS Rush Limbaugh. Really...

Signed
A gleeful democrat

I have been a registered Republican since I turned 18. Even though I was a big McCain supporter for years, his age and his selection of Palin pushed me into the Obama camp. I believe that Gen. Powell voted for the best man. I am saddened that Rush's strident brand of in-your-face conservatism has the influence it does. Lest we forget, he is an entertainer. Controversy is his bread and butter.

When will the Republican Party realize that it is losing loyal Republicans from the ranting and raving of comments by Rush Limbaugh and others who spew hate and strife. I have the utmost respect for Colin Powell and would have voted for him as President in a heart beat. He doesn't just throw out rants at the drop of a hat about anyone who happens to disagree with him.

Everytime I read about another one of Rush Limbaugh's rants, I want to legally change my party affiliation. I no longer even wish to admit I was ever a Republican. I vote my convictions and they do not coincide with this party.

That's OK by me, cause there are lots of haters of Obama simply because of his(skin color) race. People can be shallow, don't think Colin Powell is as I think he was very clear as to why he voted for Obama, but then Limbaugh is such a true jerk! Limbaugh was bad mouthing John McCain just the other day. See what I mean?!

No Rush!!! If the general is a republican he should stay a republican. He said he voted for the President simply because he actually had an agenda on what to do with the economy and McCain did not. Get your facts right Rush. If anything, Gen. Powell should be the leader of the Republican Party. I'm almost 100% certain that his views are not the same of the extreme right-wing.

While I do sincerely respect Mr. Powell, and his right to offer his opinions on the state of the Republican party, I do believe that politically he IS more aligned with the Democrats than the Republicans. Isn't it interesting all the concern by the "left" about the state of the GOP, and how it needs to be more moderate and inclusive? Is it possible that they do in fact realize that the GOP gets more energized as it moves to the right, and therefore more dangerous to them?

I would say something insulting about Rush, the de facto leader of the GOP and the GOP in general. However, it has become clear to me, that to insult the GOP is similar to making fun of a handicapped child. It's just not funny

Powell believes that because he is in the middle of the raod and leans to the left on most things. He wants the GOP to be there. Historically, however, the GOP fails when it is there. It only succeeds when they adopt strong conservative values; fiscal repsonsiblity, less government, strong defense. When the GOP does this and focuses on these things, they win. Powell is a moderate Democrat and should go over to them.

Rush is right. If Powell is a true conservative voting Obama over McCain was solely based on race. But does that surprise anyone?

The truth hurts!! Go Rushhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh!!!!!

I think that Limbaugh does a great job to the GOP keeping them down.. Thumps up Limbaugh!! . Keep doing what you do , that will help young people decide what to do when they vote.

That's good Rush – just keep pushing those moderate conservatives out of the GOP...please, keep it up.... whether they move to Independent or Democrat, they'll be so disgusted with the GOP you'll lose them forever. Then you can get out the vote for your extremist candidates – and that 25% of the electorate that still claims the Republican moniker, they'll wave their teabags, talk their trash – and you'll keep losing seats in Congress and the Governorships... we LOVE you Rush – you're the best thing that ever happened to moderate voters.

The more attention this guy makes for himself, the more money he makes. Can we just please ignore him?

"I think what Rush does as an entertainer diminishes the party and intrudes or inserts into our public life a kind of nastiness that we would be better to do without."

Very well put, Mr. Powell.

Eventually the GOP leadership is going to have to deal with Limbaugh one way or another. If they embrace him, then purity is the goal, even if it means being a permanent regional (Southern) party. But if they are wise and reject him, then moderates have a voice and the party may one day return to prominence. As Lincoln once said, "a house divided against itself cannot stand".

This is downright crossing the line! No one in the right mind would accuse a former 4-star general and chairman of the joint chiefs on race. I watched Powell's endorsement of Obama back in October on NBC's Meet the Press, and it had nothing to do with that! It's good to know that some Republicans still use the spongy-like material between their ears, unlike some other people...

Limbuagh "needs to close the loop" and become a member of the facist party, and stop tranishing what little shine is left on the once great party of Ron Regan.

Rush Limbaugh represents Rush Limbaugh. He has always been the center of controversy. Colin Powell should become a democrap because he drank the "change" koolaid..

Those who are threatened the most....scream the loudest...time is running out for the ditto heads and their self-inflated god.

Rush is right.

Powell, Specter and the media – and the ultra lefty posters on here – do not have the GOP's best interests at heart anyway. Why listen to them?

Curious that Rush sees himself as having "guts," since he has made himself famous by telling the fearful, angry, and ignorant EXACTLY what they want to hear.

I wish I could go forward about 40 years so I could see what just how big of a joke Limbaugh will become. He just gets better and better every year.

I cannot and will not ever forgive Coilin Powell the man I trusted as a general in selling the iRaq War at the UNited Nations

He knows what he did on that day, it was not Bush. The people in this country trusted Colin Powell.

How in the world to you say those things when you know they are a lie and cause thousand of youn American Soldiers lives.

He was the salesman on that day and look were we are today. Now they Iraq are telling us to get out by JUne. Thanks Colin Powell for this crap and I glad you voted for OBama because you are now seeling this crap again. IT is about color and about change.

You have funds thatcauses you no worries, but how about those that are going to be in debt till they die. Thanks Colin Powell for this crap.

You may have retired as a General but you don' deserve the respect of that position based soley on your lie.

May God forgive you

Yes Mr. Powell, please switch to the Democratic Party. The GOP doesn't like or need your kind: People of conscience, people who actually think before they speak and/or act, people who consider the implications of their actions on others, those people are not welcome there. I hope you learned your lesson when Bush/Cheney used you to advance their false pretenses for war in Iraq.

Rush is a jerk and I cannot stand him, but he is right about COlin Powel – COlin played the race care and abandoned the GOP. Powell should not be allowed to call himself a Republican – he is both a racist and a turncoat soldier

The hatrid of the comments goes a long way to explain many of the problems with the current administration. Please give some examples of where Limbaugh is wrong . . . I assume some of you have some intelligence to list actual facts . . .

The only one here making any decisions based solely upon race is Limbaugh. Colin Powell is a decorated four-star general who also served his country as Secretary of State. He is intelligent, well thought, and understands that the things that he says actually mean something.

Limbaugh's list of professional "accomplishments" pales to Powell's. Nor does Limbaugh boast any record civil service. (For the record: Donating money does not count as service in my book.) So really, on what foundation does he have to stand on?

If it were anyone other than Limbaugh saying these things I would consider this shockingly irresponsible. But this is just Rush being Rush.

YOU GO RUSH! You are absolutely, positively one of the BEST things my party has going for it right now. . . (oh, BTW, I'm a democrat)

Limbaugh is the Republican Party's own worst enemy. As long as he talks the circular firing squad will continue.

Wait RUSH:

Did you not vote for McCain soley on the issue of race???

What a bigot!!!

As I recall, Rush got canned from ESPN for suggesting that Donovan Mcnabb would not garner any attention if he were white. Now, as much as I would love to chalk this up to him being on whatever prescription drug he may currently be abusing, I think its just that Powell has what Limbaugh really wants:

Credibility.

Limbaugh will never be anything more than an arrogant, overpaid, jealous blowhard who cannot handle the idea of a black man telling the truth about the institution Ruch helped to destroy.

What is wrong with this guy? Every day he has a new person to target. Not only is this man a narcissist, he is scary paranoid. It amazes me how he flips or spins every situation to make it about HIM. "He's just mad at me because I'm the one person in the country who had the guts to explain his endorsement of Obama," Limbaugh said. "It was purely and solely based on race." Yeah, that’s it El Rushbo; you are right………again. Narcissist!

Get over yourself, dude! And to the people who listen to this gas bag, please research the following words: brainwashing and cult. That is just to name ONLY a few.

Personally, I like Colin Powell, and believe he is a good man that the Bush administration took advantage of and exploited. If you do decide to jump ship to the sane side, Gen. Powell, the Democrats (the REAL big tent) would welcome you! To he$$ with El Rushbo!

Powell went against his party.
So please leave for real and stop having it both ways Colin.
Rush has his right to say what he wants, like it or not.
But at least you know where Rush stands. Colin needs to make the change and fight Rush and the GOP for real, if in fact that's what he wants to do in his heart.

My dad is a old white guy and lifelong Republican who voted for Obama. There are millions of such people. Clearly, it's all about race for Rush Limbaugh and he has to target the black guy.

As we say in the South when someone is just pitiful,"Bless his little old heart". It's a polite way of saying, the person is an idiot,slightly deranged,not operating on all his/her cylinders and is not the brightest bulb on the light string.

IF I wrote how I truly feel about Limbaugh CNN wouldn't post it. Hustler Magazine probably would.
I'll take a Powel over a Limbaugh any time!

Pretty soon the GOP ain't going to be much of party. Just a couple white guys who've drunk all the punch.

Much props to the General's service to this country, but if you people think Powell endorsed NObama because he was ready to lead or for change or for whatever garbage he made up, then I have some swampland in Florida to sell you.

Powell is RIGHT. Limp-baugh is an ENTERTAINER people. He serves only to increase his ratings so he can afford more prescription drugs and Mexican hookers.

It's laughable that such a man could still have followers. Oh wait...I mean "dittoheads". Ironically they call the rest of us "sheep". LOL!!!

A Republican party led by Powell, Snowe, Collins, Schwarzenegger, Specter, McCain, Crist, Kassebaum and the sort would be unbeatable. Fiscally conservative, socially progressive. It's what America needs and America increasingly wants.

But Rush won't let them.

I'm a lifelong republican, through thick and thin. Rush is a clown.

I love it! Go Rush! Every time you open your mouth you put more votes in the Democratic pile. Keep talking!! Watch more red states turn blue!!

I would be pleased and proud to have General Powell in the Democratic party.

great pic of rush he looks evil. if you ask me Colin Powell has served his country with great distinction and would be a welcome addition to the democratic party.

You all know Rush is right about this one. Admit it. The fact that he's black was the first thought that went through your minds when Colin Powell made the announcement.

I'm sure Colin isn't really worried about what Rush has to say...he isn't afraid of the windbag that is Rush's mouth...the only folks that care are the close minded followers of his...and apparently CNN......

Colin Powell is an Uncle Tom of the democrat party. He pretends to be conservative but acts and talks like a liberal. I hope he quits pretending and ex-Specter-ates himself from the republican party soon. I like Rush speaking for me, and hope he continues to do so.

It isn't conservatives that are killing the GOP....it's psuedo Republicans like Powell.

Powell demands that the GOP go centrist – which they did when they nominated Mr. Independent John McCain for president. So, then Powell supports Obama anyway!

It's a waste of time for the GOP to listen to a guy like Powell whose only interest in the GOP is for future paid speaking engagements.

The Democrats don't have to worry about the Republicans for they are one. What both parties need to focus on is that there is a Revolution coming that will form a third Party. Republicans, Democrats, Independents and Libertarians will form a majority out discontent from our corrupt political leaders that have neglected the people for their own gains. Look out for July 4th!

As a Democrat I love seeing things like this. We as a party have are not using some grand strategy to defeat the GOP, the Republicans are doing it to themselves. It is sad however that a great man like Colin Powell had to be viciously attacked like this. However, if Limbaugh does not like what you are doing then you must be doing something right.

Limbaugh is a disruptive force, as a "white" republican I am insulted to hear comments that one of the true american patriots (Powell) voted based on race. By the way I voted for Obama as well, nothing to do with race just the best person for the job.

I applaud Powell for saying what needed to be said. The truth. He is a brilliant man who has served his country. What has Rush Limbaugh done for America but make people afraid and demand they believe the way he wants them to. That is the most unAmerican thing to do.

Thank you Collin Powell, from the bottom of this democratic voting Republican's heart.

What the Republican Party needs to do is get rid of Rush Limbaugh. He is a millstone around their necks. Old loud mouth just can't keep his trap shut.

Jesse Brookeland, Tx

Rush is single handedly driving the party down, and that's funny, because he's not even a politician. But if the GOP can't break away from an entertainer's ideology, then the last laugh is on them.

Rush gives the democratic party someone that they can default to. When he speaks his venom, he is immediately presented as the "leader" of the GOP and made to look like the person that most republicans are like. He does the republican party a disservice in that regard. I saw a poll recently that showed that nearly 50% of the listeners of the Rush Limbaugh Show on talk radio were people that considered themselves liberals ("progressives"). Rush is the number 1 radio talk show host in America and makes more money than just about all of the other talk show hosts combined because of his listenership.

He does what he does to further his own self interests. And, in doing so, he is devastating the GOP.

And you are attacking Colin Powell because of his race. And if he did endorse Obama because of his race, that is merely a single incident of a power play against many that have been vice versa. Such a convenient distraction you are.

Limbaugh got that ego that is way bigger than his mouth.

To all of you that agree with Rush:
Colin Powell is a great man, someone who should be respected by both parties. As he said that it was a hard decision to make. Rush needs to go away and stop spreading the hate. He should take the other hatemongers and neocons with him and go away. With what Bush and his followers did to this man I do not blame him for backing the right person to lead us out this mess.

Go Rush! Love it the way you piss off the left wing nutjobs. It only shows they all fear you.

First, potty-mouth Rush pretends to know why Powell does what he does, but its another empty partisan attack. Second, Rush is not an "entertainer" as Steele and Powell both said - Rush disperses Republican Party propaganda, and his method is to deceive people by mixing truth with lies like Satan.

Rush speaks the truth, people quit drinking the Kool Aid and wake up. And if your a liberal dont worry about the GOP, if you dont like it dont worry with it.

Rush is this generation's Joseph McCarthy. The ugly red-baiting, blustery commentary, public character assassinations and all around mean spiritedness is all there. Both ripped the Republican party apart and laid the ground work for Democratic dominance. All humane Americans expect better from their government.

The GOP was crazy to follow McCarthy then, and it's nuts to take its lead from Limbaugh now. Unhappily for the party of Lincoln, Rush has the biggest microphone and can shout down anyone who dares defy him. The man is worth a billion dollars or so and won't go away soon. He is an entertainer, as he says so himself, but the only people who are cheered by his performance are Democrats rising to power.

Mr Chickenhawk (and aren't almost all of these Repub pundits?) speaks against the esteemed General Powell.

Come on Limbaugh, just say it, I know you want to, just say "anyone not white and who doesn't agree with me get out of MY PARTY". You know that's what you are thinking.

Every think Rush is starting to sound like McCarthy??

Arrogance, thy name is Rush. Who knew that God would create one perfect person to carry the standard of the conservative movement.

I don't understand how the conservatives in the Republican party want to separate themselves from the moderates of the party. Don't they realize that if their wish comes to pass, their base is so small they will never be in majority status in politics again? What are they thinking?

Limbaugh would help the conservative movement if he became a Democrat. We don't want you anymore Rush.

Rush Limbaugh should be recognized for what he truly is: unpatriotic. He is an attention-getting, beligerent, out of control drug addict whose sole purpose is to call attention to himself and and increase his bottom line.
If he cared at all about this country he would be interested in 'Country First' (remember that?), not 'Rush First'

Obviously, Mr. Limbaugh doesn't know how to listen to an intelligent thoughtful man. General Powell's comments showed such wisdom of judgment. The fact that Limbaugh would even mention that the vote was along racial lines shows the prejudices of Mr. Limbaugh. Oh how it is easy to place the race card. Comments like his should really convince the Republicans of his biased leanings.

If Rush has this vast knowledge of how Washington should be run and knows what is so good for the U.S.A. he should get off his soap box and run for political office. With all he believes he knows, he should be able to, single handedly, straighten out the problems of the United States in six months. But Rush wouldn't do that. He would never give up his salary. It's also easier to be a Arm Chair Quarterback than the Quarterback. And his ego would never let it happen either.

Its more than just concerining that Limbaugh has so many sychophants that hang on every piece of hate and bile this blowhard spews out on a daily basis. Who are these people? They are right wing extremists, not the GOP. I understand the notion of being fiscally conservative but these extreme social conservatives are destroying the party, not the other way around. Who is Rush Limbaugh to attack Colin Powell, the former Secretary of State, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff and Reagan's former National Security Advisor? Compare that resume to a "shock jock" and recovering oxycontin addict and you'll see that Limbaugh has absolutely no credibility whatsoever.

1)Retired Army General, Former Secretary of State.
2)Loud-Mouth drug addict with zero positive contribution to society.
You decide.

YES!! YES!! By all means, show Powell the door!

Show John McCain the door!

Show everyone who does not agree with Scumbaugh the door!

And as for those pesky voters, show ALL OF THEM the door as well!!

colin powell has always been a weak person. rush is right.

I think CNN should just list both mens credentials side by side, just exactly what has Rush done for his country ? The fact that he is even a story says alot about our attraction to the car wreck on the side of the road. All the people stopping to gawk at this guy are holding up the rest of us trying to get somewhere.

limbaugh is kicking everyone out of the party

first specter, than McCann now powell
and also the new Republican Leadership Council

soon it will be just Boss Limbaugh and Palin

I am no Rush follower but have to admit that whether you like him or not, we all know what he stands for. On the other hand Collin Powell has betrayed the conservative values that he once stood for in favor of an agenda that will destroy our country. I once thought of him as a patriot but know he is no more than a Liberal Progressive.

Let's see, one is a decorated soldier who served his country versus a thrice divorced drug addict who hasn't done jack for his country except drive a wedge through it.

As an independent, I sometimes think that Rush Limbaugh is secretly working for the Democrats. His "Joe McCarthy Lite" approach to conservatism keeps scaring me away from listening to anything the GOP has to say.

So...Rush's HIDDEN Messages:

-Rush himself supports politicians solely based on RACE.
-Like Joe McCarthy, Rush has a list of 220 closet-Democrats who have infiltrated the Republican party
-Only Rush knows who should really leave the GOP and join the Dems
-Rush is no good at dialogue.....you only get to listen and either agree or not, Rush does not listen to anyone else's opinion but Rush's

What a place America is....where a two-bit loudmouth ex-painkiller addict "talk show" host wields more power than the chairman of the GOP......perhaps this really illustrates how far the GOP has fallen when Rush is their apologist!

Please CNN....get another picture! This pic of Rush with the flag behind him (like HE represents America??) makes me sick! This man is NOT America!! This man is NOT my conscience. This man is NOT an expert.

Just keep jabbering away, Rush. You're digging yourself deeper and deeper in a hole, only you're using your mouth instead of a shovel.

Colin Powell is an honorable man whose opinions I respect. Rush, on the other hand, has a knack for making people think about hate while chuckling. Just can't find any respect in that.

It's very unfortunate that the Republicans have let this loud mouthed buffoon define who they are and what a "good Republican" should be. You know things are bad when Michael Steele, the chair of the RNC, cowers at the very mention of his name and apolgoizes for remarks he should not have had to apologize for.

As for Colin Powell, I have to say I agree with his remarks. And if he wants to take Limbaugh up on his challenge and become a Democrat, we'd welcome him with open arms. The GOP's loss would be the country's gain.

And there you have it. These "entertainers" are really the people that get the base misinformed and up-in-arms. Without these "entertainers" there would be nobody following the party. Without the entire right-wing radio spectrum and Fox News, you wouldn't have misinformed folks following the GOP. How else can you lead the bigots and the racists and the ignorant if not for entertainment, however ill-informed? The GOP moderates like to believe that the masses that follow them have similar values, but they're not, they're the being followed by people who think Obama has followed a crazy Christian preacher named Wright for 20+ years, but is simultaneously a Muslim to the core and wasn't even born in the US. Colin Powell should jump ship, alright. The GOP doesn't learn from its mistakes and will only get more right-wing and crazy.

One can only pray that Limbaugh's voice never dies and that it keeps dividing and impairing the GOP to the extent it has...especially over the past 6 months. Poor thing just doesn't get the damage he's doing. What is astonishing is that folks still buy into this horsy manure even though it's been exposed for the sham it is.

Shame on you Limbaugh...your not following the Republican's "Eleventh Commandment"...if you can't say anything nice about a Fellow-Republican, don't say anything at all!

"Conservatives 4 Palin" blasted Mitt Romney for his comment that he could understand TIME Magazine including Palin in the top 100 beautiful, but not influential...referencing this 2002 EXCLUSIVE REPUBLICAN COMMANDMENT!

Do your homework!

All I can do is call Big Mouth Rush a big fat pig. Colin Powell did NOT endorse Obama because of his skin color. He endorsed Obama because he was and is the best person for the job. It was not up to General Powell about Iraq. It was Iraq's neighbors who called us off. And if the GOP continues to listen to Fat Man, the more egg they will have on their faces.

Mr. Powell I could not agree with you more. The RNC is rapidly becoming extinct & there top spokespersons are Limbaugh & Palin. God help the RNC. What a joke. Where are the solid, conservative republicans? Where is ANY voice for the RNC that isn't blatently racist? Come one, wake up before it's too late!!!!

How can any insane person like, admire or respect anything Rush Limbaugh has to say?? I just don't understand it.

I don't think Colin Powell's decision to endorse Obama was based on race. I think it was based on the fact the the republican party is a bunch of racist, devisive, hateful human beings.... I'm white! I can say that. I considered myself a republican my whole life until recently. I can not call myself a republican or a democrat. Neither party stands for the morals and values I have, but one thing is for sure, Rush Limbaugh doesn't represent much of anything I agree with and it's people like him, Sean Hannity, and Ann Coulter that keep me running FAR away...... They dish out divisive Hate Speech and nothing more...

The repubs did run a middle of the road in 2008...and they lost. Why should they try that again? They ran a very conservative in '80 and '84 and blew the dems away.

Limbaugh is an anachronism. Why does any thinking person listen to this blow hard?

Powell has never had a backbone. period.

Why isn't Limbaugh on the banned from England list as well ?????

I am LOVING how Limbaugh is only concerned about himself and his ratings while he is dragging what is left of the GOP through the mud and continuing to help make it a devisive party instead of a unfied one. He and Palin are exactly what is causing Republicans to become Independents and in some cases Democrats.

How can anyone listen to and believe his hate and call themselves an AMERICAN?

Rush is off base. Powell, McCain, Spector, Bloomberg, Romney are all at least 51% republicans and should be welcomed into the party. It is the only way that the party can succeed. They make it a better party. None of us are 100% in agreement. I would vote for any of these 5 individuals before I'd vote for an ultra conservative or an ultraliberal.

Maybe we do need a middle party that has the economic policies of the Republicans but with more of the social interests of the Democrats.

i should not even take the time to write this because you are a waste of my time
Rush – you are not worthy to even shine the shoes of Colin Powell
you are not in the same league
go away please

I agree. Colin should join the Democrats and leave the Republicans to the angry old White men. I'll never forget watching Colin's speech at the convention of 96'. He said the Republicans were the party of the future and then he was booed for being Pro-Choice and Pro-Affirmative Action. Colin get with the winning team.

That's right Limbaugh, kick out all the moderates and you'll have exactly the party you want.

Lets' see, Colin Powell, decorated soldier and Combat veteran who is not afraid to stand up and fight for his country and say what is on his mind. And the opposition, a liar, draft evader who could not walk a mile in Powell's boots banging his fat chest over false issues of race. Yes, if the Republican party takes Limbaugh's position over Powell, they are truly a party destined to end.

"I think what Rush does as an entertainer diminishes the party and intrudes or inserts into our public life a kind of nastiness that we would be better to do without"

I couldn't agree more.

Rush is, as he says, only an entertainer. I am surely entertained.

I think Limbaugh should continue with his rhetoric and force more Republicans to the Democratic party - the GOP continues to nosedive and their fanatical supporters are becoming more a party of jokers. Keep it up Rush!!!!

Is Limbaugh advocating the demise of the Republican Party with his admonishing that Powell should leave the party for that of the Democrats? Limbaugh is becoming like the captain of that naval vessel seeking to recover his lost strawberries or attempt to account for their loss! If it hasn't occurred to Limbaugh, the Republicans are leaving the Party, just ask Arlen Specter! May as well go down with the ship, heh, Rush?

keep talking Rush...you will bear the yoke of the destruction of the GOP as we know it...your intolerance is just a hoot...please,dont stop your yapping...you are a one-man wrecking ball, and at some point, I fear the GOP will rise up,wake up, and toss you into the garbage where you belong.

I think that Colin Powell is perfectly capable of speaking for himself. he gave very clear reasons for his endorsement of (now) President Obama. Essentially, Limbaugh is calling Colin Powell a liar by saying his decision was based "purely and solely on race". It's very clear that the far right is entrenching itself in very divisive methods. It reminds me of the reaction of the South during the Nixon/Kennedy election in 1960. Even then, issues like "states rights" and the battle between geography and party lines were at the center of debates over race. The only difference, is the whites were registered as Dems, not GOP. By party means nothing – character and the presence (or lack of) a soul does.

ahhhhhhhhh rush – another rethug gift that keeps on giving (to Dems) – Powell is one of the few repubs that ever earned respect & I'm sure the Dems would love to have him

Stop reporting on this disgusting, self-centered loudmouth and bully. His criticism of Colin Powell is criticism that has just gone too far. Limbaugh only does this to get attention. He has nothing truly newsworthy or worthwhile to offer the country. Why don't you just stop covering him altogether? The man is vicious and insane.

Let's see, you have a fat-butted, loud-mouthed, drug abusing, college dropout, self-aggrandizing fool, trying to take on a highly-decorated combat veteran who was a member of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, was instrumental in winning the first war in Iraq, and who was the Secretary of State. Tell me again why anyone listens to Limbaugh.

Of course we have freedom of speech in this country, but shouldn't someone in the Republican leadership tell Limbaugh to shut the hell up before he winds up losing his job, and the jobs of even more Republicans?

You are right, Rush. The Republican party did so well in the last election. There is no need for them to reform at all. Idiot.

Wow, who has the credibility here?General Powell who has served our country well.Or Limpbaugh?Keep talking limpbaugh your like a shovel.

Why won't Rush shut up?

Go Rush! Chase out any reasonable thinking person from the GOP so I will never have to endure another horrible republican president screwing up the country.

Rush: Collin Powell cannot become a Democrat. There is no more room left because of all the Republicans defecting to the Democratic Party.

I could see a republican supporting a Clinton, but there is no way that anyone who has even a remote understanding of conservative principles and lives a life based on the conservative way of treating people with respect, class, and courtesy could ever support a national socialist like Barak Obama.

Powell surely has read the things Obama has said, in particular his thoughts that the consitution is flawed and needs to be rewrtten to include reperations for the poor. He must have known that Obama feels most comfortable around leftist extremists like Wright and Ayers. In knowing the truth about Obama he still supported him for president. Even when he had a fellow RINO whose views mirrored his own in McCain running on the republican ticket. Powell is a Democrat, just as much so as JFK if he ran on his ticket in 1960 today would be a far right wing radical neo-con by the left in America today.

It was only after all peaceful means failed, he said, "that we had to fight. We ended the war in, you ended it, what was it, a hundred hours."

"I'll never forget," he said, when Secretary of Defense Dick Cheney and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Gen. Colin Powell "came over and said it was time to end the fighting - mission accomplished. I said, 'Do [Gen. Norman] Schwarzkopf and the commanders agree.'"

Bush said that within 30 seconds Powell had Schwarzkopf on the phone assuring him that the mission had been accomplished.

"I don't believe in mission creep," he continued. "Had we gone into Baghdad - we could have done it, you guys could have done it, you could have been there in 48 hours - and then what?

"Which sergeant, which private, whose life would be at stake in perhaps a fruitless hunt in an urban guerilla war to find the most-secure dictator in the world?

Shouldn't his guy be committed already – he is a danger to himself and others. He proves he's a racist byt trying to call Colin Powell one, and he thinks Palin is credible and ARTICULATE? Why does CNN give him a venue to vent his lies?

When a overweight under the radar drug addict takes swipes at Colin Powell that is really called a swine flu epidemic invading our land...and the Republican party seems to have no shortages of flu pundits...Savage/Limbaugh/Hannity...would be so nice to converse openly and candidly about our world without all the swine hyperbole...but they just aren't capable of being part of the solution..rather hoggish , I'd say.

He is such an idiot. Aren't members of the GOP embarrassed that he is considered by many to be their standard bearer?

Powell speaks the truth with dignity while RL obviously loves to hear the sound of his own voice.

(drum roll)

Ladies and Gentlemen... your Republican Party intellectual and moral leader... Mr. Rush Limbaugh

(cheers)

Now everyone get in line and play 'follow the leader'!

The only reason Limbaugh believes, truly believes, that Powell endorsed Obama based on race is because that's the only reason Limbaugh would ever vote for a candidate in an election pitting a white candidate against a black or an Asian or a whatever.

Whatever will poor Rush do if neither of the candidates is white? I hope he doesn't hand himself. On the other hand...

Rush Limbaugh is a cannibal, devouring the helpless conservatives who actually care about this country. As a former moderate independent who now proudly identifies as a democrat, even I am saddened by this. Everyone deserves to be represented in a democracy, and clowns like Limbaugh have hijacked the big tent...

Why does anyone care what Limbaugh thinks? Why does CNN breathlessly report his every inane utterance? Hm... maybe because you guys need conflict to sustain ratings?

Colin Powell, no matter what his political affiliation, is correct . Rush is just right.... way right, like out there with the Nazis

You EXPLAINED Powell's endorsement of Obama? Says Who Rushy? YOU didn't explain anything but your incompetence to be sane buddy. Stupid is Rush Limbaugh. LOL.

Collin Powell is RIGHT about your injections of hatred and bigotry across the board. Unfortunately you are too daft to know you are the JOKE of Washington!!! Everyone is laughing AT YOU, NOT with you Rushy. Look around, you have NO credibility buddy.

You are an ENTERTAINER Rush Limbaugh, and you suck at that too!! You're sitting in a 4×6 cell, oops I meant room, talking on a small radio microphone. What does that tell you Rushy?

YOU'RE A RADIO JOCK, NOTHING MORE!!!

Colin Powell is a fine man maybe he should take Rush's advice on this. Then Boss Limbaugh can rename the GOP the NEOCON PARTY and finish their self destruction by 2012

Colin Powells statement referring to Rush Limbaugh is hitting the hammer right on the bullseye of the Nail.....

I think most open minded average Americans understand Rush Limbaugh and the NASTINESS that drools from his mouth....

What we don't understand is, the people that support Rush Limbaugh, we know that they're only 21% of our population...

In addition, Sarah Palins followers are also a very very small part of our population.......

These 2 people, Limbaugh and Palin, are an embarrasment to most Americans.....

I believe Mr. Powell explained his supporting Obama perfectly well, and it had nothing to do with race, and in fact MANY republicans came out and supported and cast their votes for President Obama. The problem with Rush Scumbaugh is that in his opinion, there is only one way to be a republican. You think this way about social issues, and this way about fiscal issues, and there is NO ROOM for new ideas. That's why the party is in a death spiral.

1) The Republican Party is in deep trouble.

AND

2) We would all be better without Rush Limbaugh

Who can disagree with either of these statements? Rush Limbaugh needs to change parties and become a Fascist or a Nazi (if the shoe fits), because he's giving Americans (Democrat or Republican) a bad name.

P.S. I used to be apolitical until I grew a brain, then I became a Republican; I later grew a heart and became a Democrat.

I listened to Powel's explanation of why he endorsed Obama. He provided a pretty long list of things and it had nothing to do with race. Limbaugh is race bating.

Powel is welcome in the Democratic party. He's intelligent and practical (policy over idealogy). If the GOP continues to kick people like him out of their party, they are truly doomed. I'm sure there are sane people in the GOP but they don't get nearly as much air time as the far right, ultra conservative folks. They tend to spew nonsense. It's pretty sad.

One again, Limbaugh proves that he is an out and out racist. The truth is Limbaugh isn't fit to polish Colin Powell's shoes. Powell is a very decent man and an American hero who was ruthlessly used by GWBush and the Republican party. Limbaugh is just a drug addicted scumbag.

Yes, Rush, you need to be kicked out from the RP. People like you are giving a bad name to the party and the net result: only 21% of the population now claims to be republican!!

Agree with Limbaugh; Powell leaned to the left when he served in the Bush Administration and no one can tell me different that he backed Obama other than on race during the elections. He's a Democrat who needs to come out. No shame, just admit who you are and what you support.

Soon, Limbo will be the only one left in the Republican Party. Which would be fine; then he'd be with someone he loved.

Limbaugh is a self-serving, divisive, bigot who is pushing sensible Republicans out of the G.O.P.. Those who keep following this moron will surely lead the party to irrelevancy.

Emperor Limbaugh has once again put ideological purity above common sense. If you are the GOP and you want to increase the size of the party, why would you be kicking out the moderates who are trying to bring intellect and sanity to the party?

I can't believe that anyone of any kind of intelligence listens to Limbaugh, let alone takes him seriously or is influenced by his negative and vicious opinions. Seems to me he is moreorless a traitor, since he is hellbent on undermining the duly elected President of the United States.

By the way, why does he sniff all the time? I suspect the worst.

Why is this guy still around the GOP
Get this guy off radio/media,anything assorted with the public viewpoint.
Powell was first one to leave the Bush Adm because he saw how they business.
The Gop will never regain it's Swagger with this punk still on air

Another Republican who's about to pay the price for acting like an adult. I bet all the conservatives who used to call Powell a national hero are all writing him nasty letters like little lemmings because the de facto party leader has spoken.

Keep on flapping your yap, Mr. Limbaugh. You help Democrats everytime you do.

Republicans are in deep trouble...and that concerns me because I believe in a two (or more) party system. What I don't believe in is a system with far right republicans battling it out with far left democrats and moderates (most people) being left with the consequences. Mr. Limbaugh has the right to his beliefs and certainly has the right to say what he likes on his own show. Mr. Powell, however, is right in saying that Mr. Limbaugh is not helping win over the swing votes that republicans would need to be a viable party with national appeal. The consequences of extremist thinking is not solely for the conservatives. Far left democrats who prefer to spend spend spend would do well to "govern from the center" before we find ourselves talking about the demise of the Democratic Party in the next election cycle.

Could we please not give Limberger any more press than maybe ET or the like!!! Please...

For somebody that has never governed anything besides his medicine cabinet, he certainly is some critic! Since Limbaugh is saying that Colin endorsed Obama based on race what does that say about Limbaughs record of voting for every white candidate? I'm sure that Limbaugh has never voted for a candidate that didn't represent his race?

Yes, I agree, Colin Powell is nothing but a racist, all those years of intelligent and loyal service to the white man have been nothing but a big ploy. (can you smell the sarcasm)

So it's either agree with everything Rush says or join the Democrats?

It's hard to imagine why the GOP is failing.

What a load of crap!! And I do mean Rush!!! Why is it when Rush picks someone, it's purely without bias and in the best interest of the country and when Powell picked Obama over McCain, it was purely because of race? I’ll answer that for myself. He is insinuating that people of color can't see past race!!! Rush is an idiot and anyone who listens and agrees with the garbage he spews is an idiot also.

Colin 1, Rush 0 .... as usual

My visits to cnn website are becoming less and less as cnn becomes more & more like fox (faux) news – keep giving voice to idiots like rush – or maybe ur actual plan is to help put the repugs to rest once & for all – hopefully the independents will take their place as a stronger party so we can continue to have a 2 party system

This time it will not work....Colin Powell will not come a running to apologize...nor will Rush likely to change how the country feels about Powell....nice try tough. As long as the republican party allow Rush Limbaugh to open his big fat mouth....they will not be winning any elections in the next cycle or 2012.

Earth to Limbaugh – become human

I pray daily that the conservatives keep the likes of Limbaugh...

...out front and center...

...keeping our enemies close is very important...

Limbaugh seems to want to excommunicate everyone from the GOP that doesn't see eye – to – eye with him. Making the minority party even smaller doesn't seem that bright... but Rush appears to be the boss. So I'm hoping Powell takes Rush's advice! C'mon over Mr. Powell...

All Limbaugh cares about boosting his ratings by trashing other Republicans, thereby getting headlines. Colin Powell is a retired Army general who served his country with honor. Limbaugh is an oxycontin-addicted greedy blowhard who only hurls ad hominem attacks an anything that moves. Limbaugh's radio show is extremely boring.

This guy is such a POS that it is unbelievable. Deep down the Republicans in Congress who actually want to progress forward with actual ideas loath this man (ahem, Eric Cantor), but they are too timid to actually stand up to him. He is a bigot, and the more the Republican establishment remains quiet, the more they let him represent their views.

Keep it up Rush, pretty soon you'll be the only one left in the Republican Party- politicians like McCain, Palin, and Powell- whom you criticize- bring balance an diversity to you're dying party.

silly, insane, stupid, dum, arrogrant, and the most plain nonsense I have ever heard come from a fool mouth. Limpball I thank you from the bottom of my heart, the Democract will win re-election and President Obama will be in office of 8 years. Thank to you. Keep up the good work. P.s. the Rethuglican that you are a closet Democract please stay in the closet, your black suit is killing me.

What Limbaugh and other Republicans are proving is that they do not condone ANY descenting opinions in the party and that all party members MUST have the same vision, goal, objectives, and opinions as one another. Forget about thinking for ones self. If you don't fit into the cookie cutter mold, then you are invited to leave. Is it any wonder why the party is shrinking?

I am not a fan of Limbaugh, but I do agree with his comments on Powell and his backing of Obama . Powell would have got my vote if he would have ran for the Pres. spot. Lost all respect for this guy now. He should join the Democrats and seek his real change.

The one person who knows what the Republican party needs....that's to get rid of Mush and his clones!!!!! Finally a person with some integrity!

ah now that the supreme leader of the GOP said it all will follow his lead. they should ban this lard from England too.

Good for Limbaugh. With the propagandized crap in the media every day, dissenting voices interested in the truth are badly needed. No party's propaganda should become the only source of information allowed. The Democratic Party propaganda machine must be protested.

The truth hurts, eh Colin?

like him or not.............your choice............but Rush is right on here

Again Mr. Limbaugh presumes to know what is in other people's minds and focuses on that. He would better serve the political dialogue if he actually directed his meagre mind to issues, not motives.

At this point it does seem that Rush is the driving force behind the rapid and epic self-destruction of the former Republican party. keep it up Rush!

I love that the Republicans are now kicking people who think differently than them out of their party.

They are looking more and more like the Dictators they want to be.

I see the GOP continues to slip further into irrelevancy... Come on over Mr. Powell. Big Tent over here!

Maybe the Grand ole Party just sucks.....Limbaugh wants to make it a racial issue for ratings

Wow! Powell called you out Rush. Rush will never to able to win an argument against General Powell.

Man, I love this guy. The more he talks, the more ridiculous the Republicans look. Quick! Somebody give this guy more rope, because we all know what he's gonna do with it!

Powell is right but no other republican has the guts to go up against Rush. Powell is not a chicken.

That would be wonderful , if Rush got back under that rock.

He really thinks he's the defatso leader of the GOP doesn't he? Well, Steele has been effectively neutered, so I guess Rush is what's left.

In five years the GOP's theme song will be "Whistling Dixie" and they will have Minnie Pearl Look alike contests at their convention in the Home Depot parking lot.

Limbaugh is only an entertainer; nothing more, and all the Republicans I know do not take him seriously. Colin Powell is a political opportunist whose primary interest is Colin Powell. His overriding of Bush I in the Gulf War I is the reason we're still stuck in Iraq now.

I wish both people were distanced from the Republican party. It would make it much more palatable. I would like for them to take Gingrich and Romney with them.

I sure hope that Limbaugh retains this level of prominence. He does a great job of reinforcing the insularity that typifies the GOP.

I agree with Powell...the republican party would have done much better in the last election if it weren't for fringe 'conservatives' like Limbaugh.