CNN

Too late Gary. Fred Thompson (let me clear my throat) has already cornered the market on TV Thespian-wannabe-politician. Next.

I love how republicans tried desperately to paint Obama as a "Hollywood type ," like that was one of the worst things in the world, then looking to an actor as their savior. Their god, Reagan, was an actor. Arnold Schwarzenegger was an actor. Hypocrisy has no bounds it seems.

Gary Sinise is another washed up actor who's looking for fame in all the wrong places. lol lol lol

I hate learning an actors politics.......now when I watch CSI I'll be thinking.....another idiot that voted for Bush,

Gary Sinese is a true American hero. I'll take him over 100 Obamas.

My god..you have got to be kidding. The GOP is desperate!! Does Rush approve of this??? Ha Ha. The true leader of the GOP is Rush. And even he doesn't believe the crap he spits out..loosers!

Republicans have no shame, and now no sense.......What makes them think Sinise can act that well? Gen. Petraeus seems to have more class, and more sense than to let them manuver him into such a position...He likes to win not lose.....Odierno might be desperate for attention, so I can't guage him....This is too rich......It goes to show how successful President Obama is......Like Republicans, I'm campaigning for 2012 already (The Obama Man's still got IT)....Who's Next in linefor Republicans; Gary Coleman? What you talkin' bout Cheney?

Patience my Republican brethen. Whether it's Sinise, Palin, or Rush, once the Commie Chinese call in their markers on our national debt, Iran has completed their nuclear weapons program, and we're still in Pakistan fighting the Taliban a couple years from now, America will jump on the chance to throw Obama and the corrupt Democratic Congress out and install the Republicans once again. Americans will be saying, "anyone but Obama".

Disillusioned, you need to quit listening to pundits. Obama won because he is a politician, a lawyer, and a Democrat. Lt. Dan can't win because he is an actor, a musician, and a Republican.

Wait, maybe Arnold will leave California and run for President. How about Bill 0'Riley? Hmmm.O.K. possibly Tony Soprano? Ronald McDonald, oh no he is gay. Well geez, maybe Chuck Norris.

The problem with these guys (both parties and the public) is that a charismatic leader has become necessary to deliver an agenda or philosophy.

The leader principle (or as it was called in Mein Kampf – Furherprinzip) is flawed and subject to cynical manipulation. We need to get behind an idea, not a leader.

the amusing thing about the whole actor candidate bussiness is how these people (Fred Thompson) sometimes turn out to lose all of thier TV flair once they've been on the campaign trail for awhile. Not all actors are charismatic.

Gary Sinise has far too much integrity to be a part of the Republican party as it is now. He seems to be a moderate Republican not a hate mongering horses backside. He may be a very good "face" for the party. Someone who has integrity, is intelligent and can actually give a speech instead of hateful rhetoric. He seems to be my kind of Republican. That said Gary please stick to acting, I enjoy your work far to much to just be able to see it on c-span.

It might seem like fun, but Lt Dan should stay out of the Republican circular firing squad.

Another example of Republican hypocrisy: For years they've been griping over Hollywood getting involved with politics mostly on the Democratic side yet here they are wanting GOP-leaning Hollywooders to help their side. Bottom line the GOP motto always is: Do What We Say, Don't Do As We Do.

Lost all respect for you Gary when I found out yoiu were a rethuglican. Can't even watch you any more.

Any party that needs someone to save them is in deep trouble. Maybe they should work on not being so religion based and veering to the right. Also, the tragic thing of this whole thing is that CSI would probably have to be cancelled. It's one of the better shows and we definitely need that.

That said, the fact that he would even support the Republican party suggests that he's out of touch with what the needs of the average American.

Any takers, what are the needs of the average American?

Why not put Dick Cheney on the ticket with Sarah as his running mate, then we can see how big the support is for the policies they believe in.

I am a registered Republican and whoever puts intelligent people with intelligent policies on the ticket that is whom I will vote for. If my party honestly believes they can regain power on the platform they have created and keep defending then they can put anybody on the ticket in 2012 because on election day the people decide the direction they want to go. In 2008 that direction was away from the Republican policies that did a tremendous amount of damage to our great nation, both internally and externally, the Republicans making the polices have gone completely deaf to the voice of the majority within thier own party and have lost them.

I give the dems kudos for understanding how to run a campaign succesfully. They found the candidate, they created a good platform that was not anchored on hate or racial devision, and they created a platform that was intelligent and sought the support of the majority of the voters. Apparently, if your watching congressional votes this year, the elected Republicans believe if they vote no on every single bill that is created for helping the people of this country they will somehow mysteriously regain thier lost power. Thier "NO" vote is what they sow, and when harvest time comes along in 2010/2012 they will reap exactly what they have sown!

Democrats should be thankful and encourage them in the unwise choices they make. Sure its more fun to poke a stick at them but its more productive to tell them what great choices they are making to keep thier political ship heading straight for the iceburg.

For the curious I use the word "they" because according to the nitwit former VP I have been banished from my party because I too supported Obama instead of my partys candidate.

The GOP need not worry....remember that in the 2008 election over
59 million Americans voted for you and these Americans and more
are ready to vote GOP again just because of the DEMS propaganda
you GOP voters have not given up...you are just biding your time to
show your support in 2010 and the GOP will rise again !!!!!!!!!!!

For all of you saying that Sinise is "out of touch" then you are clueless. Not only has this man spent more time in Afghanistan and Iraq than any politician - he has also set up counseling programs for our Vietnam vets. He knows more about what it means to be an American than any politicians that sits on that Hill and thumbs their noses at the very people who elected them (Spector, Reid, Peloisi, etc.). Not everyone has to believe in bigger, uglier government. I say that it is a shame that more of the Republicans in Hollywood cannot let their voices be heard because of fear of being discriminated against and blackballed. Hollywood is the most intolerant of our nation's people. I refuse to lower myself to the standards of the Democratic Party in order to be considered "socially cool".

The GOP is looking to hold the country for Ransom once again and who else to do that better than Jimmy Shaker(Sinise).

For a party that couldn't stop criticizing Hollywood for being completely out of touch with America in the past decade, they sure keep packing on actors as their new face.

Sure, find someone to lead the party who makes a majority of his money from memorizing a script. I know GS is a strong actor and a generally good person... but yell at the Democratic party for actors backing them and then say that an actor should be your leader... just think.

I did have one small question: Who the hell is Gary Sinise? I'm guessing that I'm supposed to recognize this name.

If we're looking for an actor with spunk, vigor and a fresh approach, how about Yosemite Sam? He's full of piss and vinegar, pops off his six shooter at any provocation and never listens to anyone. That would seem to fulfill all the major requirements for a GOP candidate.

And I know who HE is.

The GOP needs to learn the problem is the message not the person delivering it.

What a shame to hear that he has affiliated himself with a party that at times is intolerant and intolerable, and at times both.

Are they looking for the "Great White Hope"?

I have great respect for Gary Sinise and what he has done for veterans. That said, the fact that he would even support the Republican party suggests that he's out of touch with what the needs of the average American. Although I doubt even Sinise would be able to reverse the GOP's slide toward oblivion, I am wondering if anyone has vetted him through the great and powerful Rush Limbaugh, leader of the party and arbiter of all that is Republican?

Oh brother. give us a break.

It's great to see the GOP recruiting more talented players since their act has sucked for years now...

wow the republicans still won't admit that the party is over and the GOP boys have all gone home to lick their paws and try to hide under the rocks . but a few still try . and to pick an actor is real sad
the guy does alot for the troops and other good things . hope he doesn't screw his own life up by trying to get the GOP back on track . the Cheney brigade is on a roll and is latching onto whom every they can grab ahold of on the way down the rabbit hole

Gary Senise is a great actor and great with the Armed Forces. I truly hope he does not get "dragged in to the GOP". He doesn't deserve the political corruption in Washington!!! The Republicans need to get their "act together" and do their job!

I have a great deal of respect for Gary Sinese as an actor. Not knowing too much about his core beliefs, I withhold my opinion of him as a politician, although I DO know he supports Veterans rights. He is, by Hollywood standards, very conservative, but does not appear to buy into the more extreme right. He was awarded an honorary doctorate in humane letters by Amherst College, but has not earned a degree.

My question is, if it OK for the GOP to field Reagan, Schwartzenegger, Sinese, and Sonny Bono, why is it NOT OK for the Democrats to field Al Franken? Franken at least attended Harvard College and graduated cum laude in 1973 with a bachelor of arts degree in political science, while Reagan attended Eureka College, where he majored in economics and sociology, and was very active in sports, including football - but never graduated (or it is disputed whether he graduated). Arnold, by all accounts very intelligent, attended a business school in Austria. There is no indication that he has ever studied for a degree program. Sonny Bono never even finished high school. Yet supporters of these shining stars (pun intended) of the GOP are questioning the qualifications of Al Franken??? What a joke!

He's too liberal. We need Rush's favorite, Palin.
Our only salvation.
Please?

I thought the Republicans didn't like Hollywood, why are they turning in that direction NOW, is this another Mike Steele thing. Why don't they nominate Rush Limbaugh then they will fall off the globe. They need to resurrect Lincoln. I'm sure he has more than enough of these Republicans. Begs the question, where is George W. Bush? Or do we care? I think not. Obama is cleaning up his legacy.

"Sinise...often champions veterans' causes."

Then Sinise should become a Democrat since no respectable Republican, including Senator "Look at me; aren't I great?" John McCain, gives a rat's buttocks about veterans.

McCain and the Repubs sent most of the US military into harm's ways in Iraq, without body or vehicle armor, and got 50,000 US soldiers needlessly killed or wounded...in order to transfer hundreds of billions of dollars in taxpayer money to big oil companies and contractors like Halliburton...even as the Treasury and the economy went bankrupt (well, it wasn't actually taxpayer money, it was taxpayer debt since the Treasury had no money to give).

Meanwhile, our real enemies in Afghanistan and Pakistan re-grouped and now are on the verge of defeating us. If Sinise wants to help veterans, he can enlist and go to Afghanistan to help pick up the pieces of Bush's folly.

This is yet qanother problem with the GOP. they keep throwing names out there before knowing anything about them. I'd be willing to bet they are sorry about sending Jindal out without testing the waters 1st. Claiming Chuck Norris is looking like a great idea right about now. And all we need to do is think about Nov to find perhaps their greatest selection in quite some time.

But let them continue to look for leadership and a face to represent them while the democrats continue to try and rebuild this country. By the time they get it together, they'll have less memebers than the PTA in Hicksville.

I think Gary Sinise is a fine actor but I would seriously question his candidacy for President. The GOP does not need a savior. What the GOP needs is some new constructive ideas on how to fix the mess that they were largely (but not solely) responsible for. And tax cuts and spending cuts don't count as new or constructive ideas.

I like Mr. Sinise, think he's a great actor. However, if he wants to beat Pres. Obama in 2012, he better quickly find a way to get his law degree, lead the Harvard Law Review, get some community activist time in, and a little Senate time. At that point he'll have a background that might qualify him to run against our current and next president.

I love Gary Sinise, I have watched his documentaries on our soldiers fighting in Iraq and loved them........I am a former Democrat turned Independent during the last election cycle.....I would vote for someone like Mr. Sinise in a NEW YORK minute regardless of what party he stands with ...he has been standing for middle AMERICA all of his life....GO GARY

Sounds like the GOP has come to grips with the fact an effective communicator is one of the many things Palin is not. However, to suggest an actor can stand toe to toe with President Obama is highly unlikely. The GOP is looking at today and not at the four years President Obama will have to his advantage neither do they recognize Obama was light years ahead of the GOP when he campaigned and won.

Didn't the GOP say the same thing about Fred Thompson? He'll save us, everyone likes him, etc. We all know where that went, without a script and motivation he was pretty unimpressive, and dull. But with the same old message, it doesn't make any difference who's giving it.

Too bad, I like him as an actor, but I am a Democrat and do not believe he could win against Obama. On one could. Obama has it wrapped up until 2016. Because Sinese happens to be well-known, since he is an actor, and probably also has a reasonable degree of intelligence, (as compared to, say, Sarah Palin) that doesn't qualify him to run for President. Does he have any other credentials, yet??

The Republican party needs a new message, not a new face. I guess that would start with learning what people who make 40k and less a year need from government. Let Hollywood types make movies, and keep that star appeal quality in the tabloids.

Lieutenant Dan???!!!! The RNC is seriously in trouble:)

@Dave C – NJ May 11th, 2009 11:38 am ET

Well at least he's smarter than Palin
-------------------
Who isn't??!

"z-Man May 11th, 2009 9:53 am ET

Gary Sinise, is an actor, not a canidate to run against President Obama, there is no way he beats him. You need to get someone that can run Washington DC not act like he can"

You're right, who needs more than exactly what he have now. Someone who thinks they can run DC.

I agree, the media and the Democrats are blowing the Republican moderate vs conservative issue out of proportion.

The party made a moved moderate with the McCain presidential run. Conservatives backed him becasue he was a deficit hawk, pro life and had Palin as VP. This combination kept the Republican moderates and conservatives united.

In congress the moderates and conservative Republicans have been united on economic and spending votes, voting 99.9% against the Obama out of control spending and massive growth of government. While at the same time submitting Republican alterntatives to the stimulus bill and the budget that held true to Republican ideals of limited government, low taxes and deficit control.

Specter was not kicked out because he was a social moderate. He was kicked out becasue of his vote on the stimulus bill. And he was not kicked out by party nationals. He was kicked out by his own Republican party voters in PA.

Republican moderates and conservatives look to be united on limited government, low taxes, deficit reduction, and no more bailouts. And I don't see any fighting over moderate vs conservative social issues. It looks like they are gearing up to hit the Dems where they are weakest in 2010 and 2012 on spending and government growth and tax issues.

I dont know if it's been mentioned yet, but what is up republicans and actors. I mean you have Ron Regan, Arnold schwarznegger, Fred Thompson and now Gary Sinse? Not a bad choice but, if most of your star talent comes from the entertainment world/hollywood aka la-la land–what does that say about your values. Methinks republicans are reaching for the stars,with a star, trying to catch lightning in a bottle.

Cheney's Republicanism IS the problem. Without Cheney were would the Republican Party be today? Maybe not in the White House, but certainly not as broken and de-moralized either.

Sad, sad petty little man.

When was the last time some S.A.G. reject ran on a Democratic ticket?

Can anyone say Al Franken?

Looking for another actor to fill the role of political leader? I guess it worked for Reagan, but I don't think it is wise to try to relive the glory years; doesn't usually work-out like one hopes. I like Sinise, but I hope he stays out of this nonsense.

Why not ONE MORE idiot in the GOP.......!

Don't mess up your career buddy!

You must all salute Lt. Dan!

The GOP is not looking for a leader, it's looking for a spokesperson. Just as with Reagan, George W. Bush, and Sarah Palin, what the real GOP (the old men Huckabee described sitting in a room smoking cigars and drinking bourbon) wants is someone who will do as they're told and hopefully not frighten small children when they talk.

I think the problem here is that instead of revamping thier platform and moving it out of the middle ages, they are attempting to do a facelift instead. As long as they keep doing that, the GOP will never change and it will continue to be more and more irrelevant. It's not the people in the GOP that are the problem, it's the platform and the herd mentality. Instead of tryin to go back to the 1950's and 1960's GOP, they should be trying to bring thierparty into the 21st century. Divisive issues spurned on by the religious right only hurt the GOP. If they could ever learn to stop pandering to the American Taliban, they might actually get somewhere.

Sinese is a bad fit for the GOP. Sinese cares about veterans. Sinese helps veterans. Sinese wants the government to do more for the veterans. Republicans do not care about the veterans and neither do the democrats. Both parties view members of the military as tools to be used and forgotten.

In other news.... it appears that Cheney just threw Powell under the bus.

Oh well! Run Gary! Run!!!!

Obama/whoever '12!

Even Lassie would have been smarter than Bush.

WOW!!!!!! They just don’t get it. The GOP is totally out of touch with the American people. Just like they thought by selecting any old black man to lead their party would draw in more diversity, now they think an actor will do the same. A word of advise to the GOP, start by associating with “real” American people and see what we need from our elected officials. All we want is to feel we are apart of the decision-making and not so far removed we don’t even count. This is why President Obama is so popular. He makes us feel like he is genuinely concerned about our interests. This isn’t something an “actor” or “any old black man” can do. You either have it or you don’t and right now, you don’t and I doubt very seriously you ever will!

When it suits them the repulicans bash Hollywood and actors, but when they are desperate for votes then it is okay to bring a huge name on board–because they have nothing else, no ideas, nothing except "everybody must do and think the way we do."

You lefties are funny. You have the likes of Pelosi, Reid, Sharpton, Rangle, Jefferson, McKinney, Durbin, Kerry, Edwards, Kennedy and all of the other whack jobs as well as Obama running the defecit to 4 times what Bush did, and you think you have a lock on this country for years to come? The kool aide you're all drinking must have some strong stuff in it. Your party is much more corrupt and whacked out than the current batch of Republicans. Winning a couple elections doesn't build an empire.

Ah, that's to bad. I use to like him.

Correction! Reagan was the most loved president to the republican. I personally think his political beliefs lead to the mess now. As for Gary, "Stupid is as stupid does."

Is he qualified to be president? Or are they just picking him because they hope he can beat President Obama?

At least Sinise has integrity, and thats a major improvement over everyone currently wanting to be a republican leader. But honestly the mainstream political parties are corrupt, incompetent, innefficient, misguided, etc. We need a leader that recognizes the wisdom of libertarian values. A combination of social progressivism with fiscal responsibility is the only cure for the times we live in.

Well at least he is smarter then Teflon Man...........

Sinise and Huckabee would make a great band. Toss in Sarah Palin on flute and Rush Limbaugh jumping and twitching with his matching half-filled pill bottles and they could call it "Return to The Really White House." Ah, the thrill of watching the RNC searching for its Great White Hope!

With what the author says about Obama, she should vote for him.

this is preposterous...I think we all know how bad things can go when an ACTOR becomes president...I'd prefer to not have to hate Sinise as he does a very good job on CSI...actors need to do their thing and intelligent capable people like Obama need to run the country....as it is this is a far fetched and well stupid idea

What is this with the Republicans and minor actors as front men? First Reagan, now this. Didn't we learn our lesson about empty-suit front men as President from Ronnie?

My boyfriend and I were in New Orleans a few years ago. The DAV was staying at our hotel downtown. Gary Sinise was the speaker. He was wanting to travel on the streetcar and was asking the concierge what was needed to ride. He was wearing jogging pants and did not have anything other than a credit card and needed cash. My boyfriend "loaned" him $5 so he could ride the streetcar. Was a great story to add to our wonderful trip.

Honestly, whenever I read about Gary Sinise he never really striked me as politically motivated. He'd get angry when anyone would bash the troops but I've never seen him actually get in or talk about politics. He just doesn't seem to have that type of ambition. He seems and is spoken as a very nice warm person. Just not someone who would run for president.

Well at least he's smarter than Palin.

It seems impossible to me that the Republican party does not get it to this day. And, they have a fabulous example standing right in front of them to serve as a role model—Obama himself! Whether you agree with him or not, he has the power to relate to people, explain his ideas in the simplest terms and get past the sniping, griping, and slapping that the Republicans continue to do EVERY day with wild abandon! They blame EVERYBODY AND EVERYTHING on their failures, except for themselves! They just don't seem to understand they have to stop throwing hand grenades in the hold of their sinking ship!
What is their problem? Their problem is EXACTLY what Winnie the Pooh said about Viet Nam..."We have met the enemy...and he is us!"

When they find their perfect candidate, are they going to stick him or her with Silly Sarah.....you know, to get the women and moron vote?

So basically, what it sounds like to me, is that they want someone to play the role of a white, GOP version of Obama.

Just give up and go away. I'm sure some other party, one that actually has ideas and a viable agenda, will rise up to take your place.

Ever notice how the Repubs ALWAYS have some clown actor running for office? Reagan, Scharzenegger (sp), that loser Fred Thompson...

Now this guy?

When was the last time some S.A.G. reject ran on a Democratic ticket?
And Obama is a pop star?

Disillusioned said "If Obama can run for president and win, why can't Gary sinise ??"
1. Gary Sinese is not running for president. This was a desperate thought by a GOP insider.
2. Obama ran for US Senator and state senator before that. The Presidency is NOT an entry-level job.
3. Limbaugh won't allow Sinese to be his party, much less run for POTUS. Obama didn't let anyone tell him he could't run.
By not understanding the above, I see why you are disallusioned.

I would not be so quick to dismiss him out of hand. I would like to know where he stands on th issues and what he would hope to accomplish. He coulld act circles around Fred Thopmson or Ronald Reagan and he is not a raving lunatic like so many in the leadership have showed them-selves to be lately. I much prefer his personality as a leader to that Rush Linabaugh guy they have callin the shots now

Why would someone who champions Veteran's causes want to help the Republican party? Republicans have proven for years that they like to help out weapons manufacturer's, but, (as in the case of John McCain), they LOVE to cut veteran's benefits.

Liberals only want a 100% monolopy on power long enough to fix all the stuff the Repubs messed up!

Has anyone noticed that the only time the Republicans and the right-wingers like actors is when they march lockstep with that party?

Personally, I have nothing against an actor running for office. But I find it funny that most of the time you hear the right wing vilifying actors and or "Hollywood." And saying that actors have no right to state their beliefs and shouldn't dare speak about politics. But if an actor is a staunch Republican, that's an entirely different matter....

My gosh why is the GOP in such a scurry to think their party is failing. We don't know if Obama and his administration is going to help or hinder our country in the next 4 years. Its to early to tell if the Messiah will pull us out of this mess or if he is just another blowhard in the wind.

Cool. I'll stop watching his show on tv immediately.

Gary Sinise a Republican "savior???" If Jesus Christ came back with a big red "R" in front of his name, I would not vote for him!

Bring him on! He will probably do a better job than Obama! I sure didn't know he was republican. He's probably as good as Regan or maybe better. You know, actors are not stupid by any means. They have to be pretty smart to learn all the lines and do all the stuff they have to do and Gary is a really good actor, at least he can convince us that he really is in that role that he plays. Obama has not convinced me yet that he knows about the role he is playing.

Huh? The right-wing hacks are always complaining about Hollywood "putting it's nose into politics". Yet they want to pull in an actor? They also conveniently forget about their poster boy – Alzheimer's boy.

Out with Joe the Plumber and in with Gary Sinise.

The GOP is REALLY getting despirit.

Another instance of Republicans putting lipstick on a pig. When will the Repugs get the point that policies that benefit the rich and corporations will not make them popular with the middle class?

If Ms. Wallace thinks Obama got elected just because of his communication skills, no wonder under her guidance, McCain lost. She is as clueless now as she was during pressers for McCain.

The formula: Get a pretty face, get the insurance, pharmaceutical and energy corporations pump millions into his/her campaign, and voila! The poor will volunteer to disenfranchise themselves. If needed, divide the people among racial lines (a la Willie Horton).

That formula doesn't work any more, at least here in the Midwest.

I love CSI NY...maybe he can act his way into making the GOP look like they really do care about the people of America. ALL PEOPLE and not just the wealthy and the rich...!

Ahh the GOP. They berate Barack Obama for his celebrity status (which is not his own doing), and then court...a B-list celebrity to be their new leader! Ta-daa! They found a NEW way to be sanctimonious. Yay! Hopefully Mr. Sinise will have enough sense to know when the GOP is blowing smoke and walk away (if there's any doubt about how disloyal and unpatriotic the GOP is, just look what Dick Cheney had to say about Colin Powell). And who said "Ronald Regan, the Republican and most loved President of all time"? Really? Most loved? More than, say, FDR, Lincoln, and/or Washington, who have consistently been ranked as the best and most revered Presidents? Really?

Gary Sinise should learn how to be a better actor before going into politics. This is a joke.

Barack has got a slam dunk in 2012.

Wasn't it the Republicans who ran anti-celebrity adds during the past election cycle? Why would they consider using a celebrity now? I'm sure they'd consider Paris Hilton for their party if polls indicated she'd have a chance against Obama. I don't think Republicans care about putting our country first. They only care about putting their party first, and if it takes a celebrity actor to save the party, so be it.

This is a typical republican response, Style over substance. The way out of the wilderness is with ideas that actually work. I would gladly vote for a republican if they could show us:

Real health care reform that does not funnel billions of tax dollars to pharmaceutical and insurance companies.

Honest respect for our military by not plunging us into ill advised wars to shore up defense industry contractors profits

Real consumer protection from banks that charge usery interest rates

Show me a republican with those policy positions and I'll vote for them every time.

As Lt. Dan used to say, "Get Down!" "Shut-up!"
You go, Lt. Dan!

So, Republicans – it's OK to pull in Hollywood when it's YOUR hide on the line? So which way are you going? Flip-flopping? Oh, this is rich.

hmmm Gary Sinise, I don't know he is a bit on the monotone side. How about Mr Cool aka David Caruso he could do that irritating thing with his sunglasses every time he gets peeved at an Obama comment.

I guess its okay for witless celebrities to run for office as long as theyre republicans. He must have the charisma and stamina of Fred Thompson...oops...

Maybe he can get Grissome as VP. CHuck Norris as Sec of Defense.

I swear, these guys bring stupidity to a new level. It's no wonder they keep losing support. Who in good faith can support this group of mental midgets?

Ohhh, that's right. Those conservatives that think the gubmint is gonna steal their moonshine money from under their matress. Hey, if we have to live with your stereotypes, you have to live with ours...

surely The Onion is losing its hold on funniest political headlines.

Before everyone or anyone gets excited or starts bashing, can we please have him run for office... say a local town mayor... a state representative.

"need I remind them that so was Ronald Regan, the Republican and most loved President of all time???"

Only most loved by the delusional – we are still paying a price for Regan's deregulation.

Ms. Wallace

It isn't just about how well ones speaks. It is also about one's ideas and management abilities. Maybe even their governing philosophy? Republicans can't just run out and grab a B actor anytime they are down in the dumps, regardless of their experience, beliefs, or abilities, can they?

If Obama can run for president and win, why can't Gary sinise ??

How'd that Law and Order guy work out?

It's not surprising that the RepubliKKKans want a celeb to push their agenda of theocracy and hatred. They used an actor in the 80's why not try it again.

Go Gary, Go–GOP!

Great News!! He is a very respected person. Even though there are several ppl that have had harsh comments on this blog about Gary being an actor along with GOP bashing...need I remind them that so was Ronald Regan, the Republican and most loved President of all time??? Just because someone is a GOP supporter; does not mean they are the AntiChrist! Get a life!

The Democratic Party is in more trouble then the Republcans, look who they have as there President, a loser. 2010 is the year of the Republicans 100% certain. The Democrats are going down and they deserve it.

That is what the repubs do – elect actors.

Talk about being in the political wilderness.....

They are taking the approach of 'having the cake and eating it too'. They do not want to give up their loony right wing base and reform from within. They are not understanding that this base is the reason why they are not, or will they ever get a majority in a National level election in this country. Somebody needs to realize that, cut their losses and move away from their loony base. That strategy will give them at least hope after 15-20 years.

Not finding Sinese, or Bugs Bunny to save...

Wow, so much hatred from the party in power. I'm no Republican, but the hatred being spewed from the left is no better than the hatred spewed by the right. The neo-con, RINO's in power of the Republican Party right now is what's killing the party, but shouldn't that make the Democrats happy–not angry? Just saying...

As far as Gary Sinise, good for him. Any American should be able to get involved in politics if the people elect him (or her). I don't know much about him, but it wouldn't be any worse than electing Al Franken.

The Republican Party needs a new face AND new ideology–more personal freedom, less government intervention, stop policing the world, quit legislating morality, ACTUAL fiscal conservatism, and bring the troops home. If the Republicans would follow this ideology, it would be hard to beat them. Unfortunately, they try too hard to act like liberals, and end up acting like Communists.

I actually thought of possible, viable, and credible new leader and face for the GOP" Mr. Colin Powell. Now with this man at the helm the GOP might be able to pull off a "Lazarus". I really respect Gen. Powell and what he stands for. The only stumbling block is the Party itself:can they put their money where their mouth is and be truly inclusive, or are they just looking to appear to be so with dimwitted pupetts like Michael Steele?

I agree 100% with her . At last someone who makes sense about the GOP.

If Gary Sinise were elected to any office, it would be just like George W. Bush all over again: a face put out their to get the votes, while the real power and control would be in the hands of people like Rove, Cheney, Norquist .... Don't the Republicans want to be in charge of their own destiny?

Changing the cast of characters isn't going to do the slightest bit of good unless they change the script too. Yet another pretty face bashing gays and legislating from the christian bible isn't going to help–they tried that with Sarah Paliin.

GOP still stuck on Reagan

I like Gary Sinise as an actor and think his work on behalf of our troops and the Iraqi people is admirable.

In no way does this make him qualified to hold public office.

Next!

Republicans are DESPERATE, and IRRELEVENT... I love Cheney opening his mouth, he's making things worse for them, Gingrich, Palin, Limbaugh, and Michelle Bachman too... They are seriously out of touch with MOST Americans...

It's fun to read the responses to this. Wallace said it was an IDEA, floated by a fellow Republican that they needed somebody LIKE Gary Sinise. No implications that he is interested or that an actor is what is needed, simply someone that can be as eloquent as Obama.

In true fashion, the lemming crowd take the rumor and run with it and throw out all kinds of vitriol.

As amusing as that is, it isn't nearly as funny as those professing allegiance to the 'party of the educated' committing every form of grammatical and spelling error known to man in a simple one or two paragraph tirade.

@Kevin in NJ -

That's liberal translation. Anyone, I mean anyone that poses a threat to mushroom farm created by the Obama administration. CNN's too much in bed to back out now; although it's the right time if they want to salvage any crediblity in the journalism world.

NEXT up – Obama's goons digging up, and/or fabricating dirt against Gary....just like Joe the Plumber.

Oh boy...another ACTOR...a HOLLYWOOD type to ACT as their savior. Another dope who can recite the prescribed lines and give no thought to anything. Sound familiar? It should.

Just like the GOP to demonize the "Hollywood Elite" and then go straight to Hollywood to find their answers.

They really should hire Disney to be in charge of their "repackaging". At least then they could have sparkly fairy dust to make their crap look nice.

He'd be a handsome president, but that would not take him very far. Have you ever heard him speak? I don't know how he has made it so far in acting, because he is monotone. Every delivery of every line sounds the same. He is like Keanu Reeves. Keanu is the same character in every movie he does. He delivers the lines the exact same way whether he is in a science fiction thriller or a love story. Bland, monotone delivery won't cut it. Of course that might not matter to Republicans as long as he keeps delivering that one good line to every idea. "No" to civil rights for gay American citizens. "No" to a womans right to choose what happens to her body. "No" to diplomacy. "No" to comprehensive illegal immigration policy. "No" to effective climate change policies. "No" to science. There really is only one good way to deliver the word No and I think Mr. Senise could probably handle that. President Senise – it even has a monotone ring to it.

One thing the Republicans need to do and do it fast is get that un-American, ranting, wack-0, war-mongering dick "Dick" Cheney OFF the national stage. He is doing SO much harm to the party. To have him and Rush Limbaugh attacking Colin Powell is beyond the pale. Military dodging Cheney and "Boss" Limbaugh going after a decorated military man....can they get any worse?

dump the republicans all together.....

lets start a new party... or, just become libertarians.

signed,
former republican, current libertarian, always American.

Well... Lt. Dan did drive the shrimp boat for Forrest Gump... and the 'Pubs do need the help. This is too funny.

Actors need a script from writers, so whose words are being spoken. Yes, it's a shot at actors gone political. What does the GOP believe they're getting with actors, they live in what the GOP calls the den of decadence, aka Hollywood/entertainment sectors.

I say let's hear him out. There are plenty of points to cover. He appears to be inelligent, and sincere in his efforts with the troops by putting himself in the qaugmire our armed personel are now in.

And no...I'm not a Republican. But for the sake of the country I hope the present Republican leadership change. There is far too much hate and resentment. Eventually it will be their tragic demise.

So "lets dangle the pretty lights of Hollywood in front of peoples eyes and they'll forget all about the party failings". Sorry, been there, done that, not that dumb.

It has worked for them before, so why not try it again. Reagan was the actor. Eisenhower was the general. Sinise–better actor than Reagan.
Petraeus has to go a ways but is working on his Eisenhower portfolio.
This could actually work for the Republicans. I just hope two good men don't absorb the rotten platform the Republicans have been standing on for over a decade.

I think the fact they (Repubs) are talking about needing fresh faces to their message is a good start. I think it's hurtful for any American to want to 'shut up' one party over another, both viable and necessary for the freedoms you enjoy..the ideal is actually more than two parties.
I don't know enough about this actor to say I would support him...I do know there are alot of local Repubs that are progressive in their thinking (along with Dems) who can serve us well. It's the vicous media that prevents them from desiring greater office..maybe the media is the one who needs to reconsider their way of doing things..just a thought.

“but if their masterful management of Iraq is undermined in any way over the next four years, one could hope that they’d reconsider.”

Masterful management of Iraq? Yeah, that's a real showcase for how to roll out a war. What kind of drugs are you dangerous people on?

Hey, they relied on an actor before and he became one of our most beloved presidents, right or wrong. Never say never. Minnesota had a wrestler for Governor and soon a comedian for Senator, California the Terminator, as well as numerous football players previously and currently in Congress. Traditional politicians are what got us in this mess, maybe the non-traditional can get us out.

Perfect ... another actor for the GOP. For a party that "hates celebrity", they seem have plenty of them in their ranks - Arnold, the Law/Order guy, Raygun and I am sure I am missing plenty ....

dear "const"

"the left" did not elect barack obama president, the american people did. remember? it's called "democracy."

oh, and i guess 12 years in the illinois state senate doesn't count as "experience"?

and a man who gets elected to the u.s. senate from a state with 13 million people equates to an actor who's never been in government?

it is not liberals who are "kind of pathetic when you think about it." take a look in the mirror.

I thought the GOP Was against the Liberal Hollywood I remember the GOP Calling our President a Celebrity and Now your turning to a Celebrity wow i mean wow Hypocrites!

An actor with no executive experience running for president? That's as absurd as a radical community organizer with no executive experience running for president.

Another Actor (REGAN) For the Pathetic Party of no!

This guy does good as an actor, I hope he does not get his self wrapped up with the GOP & there right wing extreme views unless he is that extreme himself.....keeping in mind that unless you look, talk, & act like one of them you will not last long in their party you will be eaten alive.

Hey, I love Gary Senise as an actor- but as a politician, and in particular as a Presidential candidate. I just don't think so.

What the heck is up with the Republican party?? They think rock star like name recognition is more important than experience when looking for candidates anymore.

Senise is great at what he does right now. I think he would be crazy to give up a lucrative career where he is highly regarded just to enter into politics.

I feel Tom Hanks would make a better candidate, he could run in Forrest ump character. You have to be dumb so big business can control you.

Gary Sinese vs President Obama? What, in a debate? Are you kidding? Funny stuff–I hope they do it!

Anyone else smell that? It's called desperation.

Bright and early Monday morning and yet another ridiculous thing the Republicans are floating around. First, their faux rage at Wanda Sykes this weekend (I totally SUPPORT what she said) and now this. Sinise? Really? Stop throwing out random names, GOP. Next you'll be telling us Dog the Bounty Hunter is being floated around as a possible savior of the Republican party. Give up! Throw in the towel!

Desperation at it's finest...

let me see, the left had no problem electing a 47 year old senator with 3 years of experience in additon to his community organizing but cry foul when Gary Sinise is offered as a candidate.

You liberals are too funny. Kind of pathetic when you think about it.

Is this for real? Isn't this comparable to Sarah Palin having experience in foreign negotiations because she can see Russia from her window? , to Gary Sinese having military service because he played Capn' Dan in Forest Gump? No wonder the republican party is on it's way out with ideas like this.

Unless Sinise is done with acting, he probably wouldn't tough the GOP with a 10 foot stick.

Sinise is a native-born citizen and he's over 35 years old. Under the constitution, he is qualifed to run for federal elective office. More power to him if this is what he wants to do. His support for the rank-and-file troops is well known. Support for the war-fighter is not a partisan issue, however.

Elected civilians make the policies, enact the laws, and establish the rules. The military does an outstanding job. The tragedy of the past 8 years has been the way it has been misused.

When will you R's get it through your thick heads? Limbaugh is you leader. Bow before him you ignorant masses and don't ask too many questions of his Majesty.

Just another sign how the Republican party just doesn't get it. I was a Republican all my life, but just switched to Democrat because I think the party has become way too out of touch with life and reality. Too much pandering to the ultra convervatives, especially in the Bible Belt. Why should the party care what people in the BB think? They aren't (or weren't) the majority in the party before, and if they didn't like a more moderate Republican Party, where were they going to go? The Nazi party? Anyway, the Republican Party is a raft floating toward the falls...no leadership. Michael Steele couldn't lead a train out of a tunnel let alone the Republican Party, and Rush is too conservative and polarizing, only adding to the disconnect.

Anyway, lets see the RP spin the wheel again to see who they can find. It will be fun to watch.

Man, if I was "a top adviser to George W. Bush and John McCain" I'd try to keep it a secret.

Next the GOP is going to want Jack Bauer(Kiefer Sutherland) to run for POTUS. I sure do love me some Jack Bauer, but after President Obama has restored our good name, I don't think it will be a wise move to elect a man who is the posterboy for torture.

Go Gary...
Those critical of Gary....can keep their creepy left defacto leaders...you know the ones....the ultra left-wingers like Pelosi, Reid, Chris Dodds, Rep Murtha, Sean Penn, Janet Garofalo, Jamie Foxx, Chris Matthews, Michael Moore, Joy Behar, Bill Maher, Keith Olberman, Rachel Maddow, Al Gore, Richard Belzer, Schumer, Perez Hilton, Paris Hilton, Senator Leaky Leahy, Geithner, Boxer, Rachel Maddow, Jeffrey Immelt, Keith Olberman, Rep Conyers, Rep Maxine Waters, Rep Boxer, Rep Meeks, Rep Davis, Franklin Raines, Rep Clay, Waxman, the ACLU, ACORN, Cafferty and Anderson on CNN, Eric Holder, and Janet Napitalano…to list a few. I will take the sane over the insane.

Would that be CSI Washington DC?

If he jumps in head first with the GOP.... I will boycott his show!!! I like Las Vegas CSI better anyways!!!

"she wrote, 'but if their masterful management of Iraq is undermined in any way over the next four years, one could hope that they’d reconsider.'”

um, is this an admission that the GOP, or perhaps cheney's 'death squads,' are – or will be – out planting roadside bombs or stirring up some other sort of mischief in Iraq in the interest of gaining votes back home?

"She also named Generals David Petraeus and Ray Odierno as possible Republican saviors."

I wouldn't be surprised to see Petraeus take advantage of his position to run for office.

Petraeus can claim he was the architect of our "victory" in Iraq (a "victory" which left our army in shambles and accounts for the fact we are losing in Afghanistan) but Petraeus can then blame Obama for not letting Petraeus win the unwinnable war we are fighting in Afghanistan.

Again, the republican party being a hypocrite. They was all over Barack Obama calling him a "celebrity" during the campaign and now they have to look to a celebrity to lead them out of the wilderness. These nutcases never quit. I smell desperation big time!

Well, are these folks got approved & blessed by Rush yet?

The GOP is thinking of fielding actors. Hmmm .... that is funny remebering that these were the same people that called Obama a celebrity. Now you want to turn to Hollywood? Sometimes I wonder who really does the deep thinking for the republicans....?if they do any

save us Lieutenant Dan!

That's it I won't watch CSI New York again!

Wow, the left-wing hate machine is out in full force this morning. I guess they won't be happy until they have a 100% monopoly on power, just like in the former Soviet Union. Give it a rest, liberals..... unless that is truly what you are after.

I seriously doubt that the current crop of GOP members and their neocon evangelical purists would nominate JC himself.
As you know he's the champion of "looking out for your brother" and that is the rethuglicants definition of "socialism".

Can you say DESPERATE!!!???
Who is this guy? Another nobody that the Republicants are trying to recuite to save their party just like they tried with Joe the plumber. I think they should go ahead with their plans...OBAMA 2012!!!!

Talk about a party in disgrace.They have no leaders and they have no ideas.No person of any substance will associate themselves with a party run by buffoons like Hannity and Limberger.They are driving all respectable conservatives out of the party.
I guess it will take a landslide for these clowns to realize how out of touch they are with most americans.

Did anyone mention that Sinise is from the corrupt state of Illinois. I just thought I would mention that since we kept hearing about it from the GOP about Obama. I wonder if Sinise ever met William Ayers?

I find it hillarious so many of you who post on here stereotype all republicans as idiots. Shows just how intelligent some of you really are.

HAHA are you serious! this man? lol The GOP are in desperation mode!

Great way to kill an acting career.

It is common knowledge that Hollywood still blackballs Republicans as payback for the Kefauver era inquisitions. Once Hollywood finds out you are with the GOP, you don't get very many call-backs.

You should all relax a little bit. One political consultant merely made a suggestion and you're going off on how stupid Republicans are for picking this guy. The GOP, as a party, hasn't given this a thought, and probably won't. I'm not a Republican, but it's pretty obvious they would never nominate him to run for President. Get a grip folks.

as much as I admire Mr. Sinise as a performer, I think they need to try to find a "savior" that has held public office, AND has charisma....I think republicans should be insulted by the idea of cultivating a non-politician towards the presidency, at least Thompson, Ventura, Bono, Scwartzenegger, and Reagan, all held a public office of some kind. Let's keep presidential hopefuls to a few standards at least.

LOL, this is too funny.

The GOP rails against the left because of their connections to Hollywood, and yet they go out and want to hoist up Gary Sinese? The GOP is a small-fry short of a Happy Meal, unbelievably hypocritical and downright lame.

I am sorry .. I do think he is a good ACTOR ....

The GOP see him as Capt. Dan ..... they think of him as a REAL PERSON this Capt. Dan .

Reagan's neoconservative ideology was incoherent. He didn't shrink the government ... he drove up massive deficits. All he did is whip out the national credit card, and have a party on the house. Now we are left to foot the bill.

Although, since he was an actor, he was able to deliver his lines with some feeling of credibility. I guess when you are the GOP, you need someone who can spew make-believe out of their mouth, without flinching at the sound of their own voice.

I think what the GOP should do instead ... is what they do in movies when the lead actor drops out of the movie for whatever reason. Recreate a version of Ronald Reagan in CGI, and have the computer FX guys in Hollywood finish the last scenes of this golden turkey. At least that way, they can give him muscles and put him in spandex.

WHAT?? Turning to a.....CELEBRITY? but wait! I thought that was bad?

I feel really bad for the everyday conservatives who live with moral fiber and actually help one another and their communities. I have many friends who are Republicans and are GOOD people. Love them dearly.
It is terrible that they are being misrepresented badly by GOP leaders who are doing and saying narrow-minded, hateful things.

We just have to wait and see where any would be "savior" stands with the rigid right wing nuts. It is obvious that the "running backs", or talking heads are moving towards the deep right and may be already out of bounds and cannot sustain the running game.

Palin/Sinise in 2012 with Joe the Plumber as Sec of State....

New GOP....you betcha!!

Great....the salvation of the GOP is to have someone 'play a politician on TV'.........

I like Gary Sinese as a person and actor, and I'm sure he's a fine and decent Republican. But what gets me was how much the Republican Party was knocking Obama for having so many celebrities support him. Now they're looking for celebrities to bring them out of the hole they're in...I think Webster can finally add the word "Republican" in its thesarus for words similar to "hypocrite."

Gee, wasn't the GOP all over Obama for "Pallin' around with celebrities?"

I wonder what Gary Sinise has to say about all of this? Reading these news snippets of the crumbling of the GOP party is like reading a very bad comic strip every day.

And then you want to rap on Sinise's experience. Another good laugh, considering who you put in the White House.

The Democratic party is nothing but a bunch of nit-wits. they have no morales. The lie to all Americans, cheat on their taxes and pad their own pockets.....I have no respect for any of them.

Gary Sinise has already done more for our troops and veterans of past wars and ANY of the current and past politicians. No one is saying that he would run for President - but he could do a lot for the party.

So, their looking for another actor "a la Reagan" who can fool enough people into voting against their interest (again). Their own Cheney and the other co-leader Uncle Rush is willfully kicking out of the party one of the most popular, down-to-earth, honorable statesmen, Colin Powell.

Forget looking for a politician who knows the issues (America cares about), has a deep understanding of the world, etc. Lets just get somebody who will be a puppet who can be controlled by the boys behind the scenes. Just as long as he can act good, all will be well.

GOP, is it any wonder why you have 20% identifying as Republican and failling? People are tired of the circuses, the lies, and the smokescreens (i.e. abortion, marriage).

The hypocrisy of the left is simply delicious. You want to ridicule the GOP playing up an actor for a possible political role. Yet you follow idiots like Al Franken, Janeanne Garofalo, Babs, Jesse Ventura, the Baldwin boys, hanging on every word they speak.
Sinise has more intelligence than all of the above combined plus any other Hollywood left wing-nut you want to add to the mix.
Thanks for the laugh, great way to start my week.

Maybe Krusty the Clown or Bart Simpson should go for this job

Sinise is an easy target. He always looks angry, and comes off like a big jerk. The GOP still doesn't seem to grasp the extent of Obama's intellect, and until they do, they will keep looking insanely stupid.

How quick liberals are to dump on Sinese without looking into his backgroun at all. Sinese has been very active behind the scenes much like Fran Driescher, or even Sean Penn. He just has a different take on the facts. Last year he did an amazing documentary on the war and has done much in the way of support for our troups. Being an actor doesn't disqualify you. Being uniformed with little knowledge and then pretending to care is different.

If he would run as a liberal, who all of you be so quick to judge?

You Lib's crack me up....every election the ENTIRE hollywood scene is out supporting your candidate. Now I read here a bunch of mocking that the GOP finds one sane person in Ca. You guys are all a real treat, a real wishy-washy treat.

"Reagan's "trickle down economics" did more harm to our Nation than good! Its a matter of record."

I don't know what record you're referring to. 21.5 million jobs were created while Reagan was president. He cut domestic spending by about 9% in his first term and cut taxes across the board including cutting the top rate from 70% to 28%, which lead to the end of the worst recession since the Great Depression. That's what we need now to ignite widespread economic growth, rather than trusting Congress to pick the winners and losers with massive debt-financed spending.

Great and while we're at it; why don't we choose Sponge Bob Square pants as the front runner to head the Republican Party.

The GOP first needs to look within themselves and change their racist ways towards African Americans and other minorities and compassion for the Middle Class and Poor. In otherwords, stop being the hypocrites that you really are.

If your still selling tax cuts; trickel down economics; supply side economics, We don't want it.
If your not for equal rights for everyone including gay people, We don't want it.
If your trying to use fear to persuade people to vote fo you, We don't want it.
If you are described as neo con, gop or republican, flat out, WE DON'T WANT IT!
these guys keep blaming the media and don't understand that America has just issued a comprehensive rejection of their entire platform

Wow! Gary Sinise is way too good an actor to be a politician and I suspect that he is way too smart to think anyone would vote for him.

This idea that a "Savior" is needed for the GOP is crazy. The base of the party wants the same tired ideas to triumph over reason. The new faces of the GOP will likely be those individuals lost in the hope that they can think outside those narrow parameters already carved in GOP stone tablets somewhere. Change is not going to happen within the GOP. It's not allowed. Check with Dicky Cheney on that.

Wait a minute! Hold it! Weren't the Republicans the SAME PEOPLE who were complaining about President Obama's "rockstar potential" and complaining about how the media was making him into more of an "icon" than a serious bid for president?? And now they want to turn around and USE these people in the EXACT SAME fashions that they were COMPLAINING ABOUT?!?! Are you kiddin' me?

So I guess it's ok do it if a Republican decides to do it. These people are NUTS! And the biggest hypocrits around! How could you denounce something and then turn around and do the exact same thing and call it right. This is an INSANE move for them. I have nothing against Gary Sinise, but I got plenty against the Republican party. And they really think people are that low-level in their thinking that they would actually equate Sinise with the Republican party as a whole?? How STUPID do they think we are?

But hey...they've shot themselves in the foot this many times....Have at it again, I say.

And the circus that is the Republican party continues!

I am sure that Gary SInise is a good man. I just have a few questions. First of all, what kind of experience does he have? I know the GOP is extremely concerned about that as they questioned the level of experience of our current President Obama during the election. What makes you think that Gary Sinise's experience will match up against Obama in a Presidential election. How much experience does he have crafting legislation. Has he worked with Congress before. Stuff like that. And the GOP also put up a VP candidate in the last election that had 'executive experience.' Does Gary have at least this much?

Secondly, I also know that the GOP is also worried about the level of celebrity that a candidate might have as once again they complained during the election that President Obama was a 'celebrity' and was just acting.

Anybody from the 21% of Americans who still call themselves Republicans care to address these two issues? I eagerly await a hypocritical analysis of the facts.

Wow the GOP needs to go back and pull another name from the hat, because anyone thinking that Gary Sinise has the qualities to be president are either extremely shallow or have a very low threshold for being impressed.

I thought that Rush was the savior of the party, at least that is what he wants everyone to think. When in the world did are government start taking comedians seriously? I do not understand why Rush has anything to say about anything in the Rebublican Party. This needs to stop, they are playing with peoples lives, when are they going to realize this? They need to start taking there jobs to heart and think about the american people, Not themselves

It's probably easier to train an actor to lie through his teeth and make it look convincing.

I like your movies, but this is embracing the dark side

Picked Palin because she was a woman, picked Steele because he was black and now an actor because he can "communicate"! Still trying to put lipstick on a pig!

Yet another desparate attempt to turn the clock back to the Reagan era – "Let's get an actor! It worked so well for us before!". Proof yet again the republican party is living in the past and has no new ideas.

And also proof republicans have are amnesiacs of the first order – weren't they the ones snarking and sniping about the "celebrity factor" with Obama?
Reagan, popular guy= celebrity factor OK
Democrat, popular guy = celebrity factor unfair, downfall of USA
Republican actor part II + desparate party = celebrity factor OK again.

Only a liberal establishment would recommend an openly gay activist actor to be the new face of the Republican party.

Then again, if the GOP is the party of Bob Dole, GHW Bush, GW Bush, John McCain and losers like Lindsay Graham and Colin Powell, then maybe Gary would make a good role model for the party. It's not like any of our other leaders have Republican values.

liberalismisasickness said: Quit saying the Repubs do not accept moderates…they ran a very moderate John McCain and the dems ran the unltra-liberal Obaman.

McCain? A moderate? He was a Bushie from his nose to his toes. Definitely not a moderate.

Obama? A liberal? I really think it's time for a lot of people to look up the descriptions of these words and compare it with the modern terminology and understanding of these words. They don't match.

So after the Republicans used the campaign tactic of belittling Obama by calling him a celebrity (and being derogatory about it) they are going to have their own true celebrity be their savior? I'm sorry but the double standards of the Republican party are absolutely ridiculous. I think my IQ has dropped about 20 points trying to wrap my head around the GOP's strategy, or lack there of.

I like the guy as a actor, and he may have done some terrific things for different causes. But again the Reps are truly showing how desperate and eager they are to recruit. It really looks pitiful.

The GOP loves their actor-presidents.

And I thought all actors of the hollywood elite were liberal democrats.

Lieutenant Dan for Prez, what a great idea. Forest could be Veep. Don't laugh, he's smarter than Bushy.

"Party purity" is working and due to the purging, the republicans will never return to relevancy.

They need a woman to compete they trot out the half-wit.

They need a black to compete they trot out Steele.

They need someone with "sizzle" they trot out an actor.

Until they realize that just presenting one dimensional cardboard cut-outs with NO substance as messengers but do change the message, they will continue to flip-flop like a salmon during spawning season.

Perhaps only a resurrected Moses could "lead them through the wilderness". As to Cheney, his verbal diarrhoea suggests that he is obviously in fear of something (that we don't know) which might come back to haunt him during the Obama administration.

I like the acting ability of Mr. Sinise but the office of POTUS isn't an acting gig and is something in the real world not role playing in Hollywood. What does he stand for? What is his agenda for this country? How is he going to deal with the problems that everyday people, no musical pun intended, face? More importantly, what kind of dirt can be dung up on him, his family, his friends and business? If he wants to return to the good ole days of past Republican glory, thanks but no thanks. We need to take a hiatus from the economic mess that traditional Republican values lead us into that the Democrats try to fix and wind up making things worse in the long run. We need a new governmental and economic model going into the future.

Is Sinise supposed to replace Reagan? The thing that probably got Reagan elected more than anything was that he was a Dem first, and some of his views were tempered by that and his acting abilities. What are Sinise's politics? Afterall, he has been in Hollywood for a while, and may not necessarily agree with all those GOP rules and beliefs. He may even have some compassion for the middle class.

Oh my god. They really are like children aren't they? "Yes Will Smith we feel you would be the best possible candidate to run against Obama because first you're black, and second because you defeated an entire civilization of aggressive aliens bent on destroying the human race and we can relate a lot to that because we basically perceive anyone different than ourselves as just that."

Well, I guess Hollywood is good for politics after all, as long as it benefitst the Republicans!

The next "new leader" of the Republican party will not be new because he or she will have to have the same ideas as the old republican leaders. The republicans can't change and won't except anyone who wants to break away from take care of the rich first mentality the pervasive in the party. If you're not strictly pro life, against flag burning, against taxing the rich, against having a good reason to go to war, then you won't make it to the hierachy of the republican party. Every prominent leader meaning Limbaugh, Hannity and the like says that there is no room for moderates in the party. This means the next leader will have to come from the right.

These morons act as if its a popularity contest. has it occured to these geniusus that Obama won because he had better ideas and people were tired of the old republican way of doing things. Any Democrat would have beaten Mccain/Bush.

Odd how all of Obama's negatives before the election 1) lack of political experience, 2) being a "savior", 3) smooth talker, are now so positive that the Republicans have made them their sole criteria for manufacturing a savior of their own. This, on the same day Cheney declares Colin Powell no longer a Republican. Keep on bein' you, Republicans!

What about Mr. Sinise's policy positions? Would he return the GOP to fiscal common sense? Or would he merely continue the extreme radicalization being pursued currently by the likes of Rush? The original, foundational tenets of the GOP rang true to me for decades, but the move has been a gradual shift away from those truths. Now the talk is of small government, but the conflicting actions support legislating morality. The talk is of lower taxes, but only after years of insane spending. Please, tell us what Mr. Sinise represents. As the matter currently stands, I've found it necessary to move to Independent as it appears moderate conservatives are no longer welcome in the GOP.

And next week the great republican savior will be who?

He certainly seems to have media appeal. But will Rush and Dick let him into the party?

Petraeus and Odierno are career military, not politicians (why does Wallace assume they are Republicans?). Sinese is an entertainer, not a politician. Mentioning their names shows desperation.
The GOP savior is also the most experienced GOP candidate for president in 2012 ... Dick Cheney.

The Republican party is the big tent party of all Americans who wish for the death of terrorists rather than Americans who hold a different view than their own. As you can see, all the people who want to free the terrorists yet kill Americans like Rush, Palin, and Steele are Democrats, just read the words of the left.

Yes, going for an actor worked so well last time when everybody said the same about Fred Thompson.

Rep. Paul Ryan. He's your savior.

We had one Actor slept through eight years and it tooke a Democract eight years to straight the Government out. Said enough.

It's really all an act for them anyway, isn't it?

It is quite obvious that the GOP gang is desperate to enlist celebrities for their crusade against the downfall engendered atleast, in part, by an element subtle arrogance. Unfortunately gasbags like RL still gasconade about his gutsy garglin' and gargantuan gibberish about the Dems inn general.

I would hate to see the GOP turn to "celebrity" politicians the way the Dems have done. We need real people with real solutions, not more entertainment. Besides, I'm afraid the Dems would jump all over Mr. Sinise's role as George Wallace years ago and twist clips of it into Mr. Sinise being a racist who still insists on segregation.

Seth in Jacksonville, FL @ 9:16 am ET "I thought Republicans didn't like the celebrity factor? They slammed Obama for having high profile supports in Hollywood. How is this any different? Hypocrisy at its best."
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To help the clarify - it's not an aversion to celebrities, it's an aversion to celebrities that don't have a clue about personal responsibility or self-sufficiency. Reagan, Bono, Thompson, Schwarzenegger, Ventura – fine. Franken, Obama, Penn, Kennedy, etc.

Since our previous savior (Reagan) was an actor and that worked out so well for us...

Quit saying the Repubs do not accept moderates...they ran a very moderate John McCain and the dems ran the unltra-liberal Obaman.

The truth is that moderate to a liberial is not moderate to a true moderate!

Um – have we heard anything about his knowledge of world affairs? history? economy? the Constitution? his character and temperament? intelligence? Didn't think so. How cynical can the Repubs get, thinking that the country only needs a smooth talker? Oh, I forgot, it worked for them once before...didn't work so well for the country, though they make believe it did.

I have always liked Sinise's work, but a politician? We've already had an actor as president.

What's funny is how............ hypocritical....... the GOPers are! They detest the "Hollywood types" ........ however....... IF the actor is a GOPer also, then by all means let them speak!

Reagan's "trickle down economics" did more harm to our Nation than good! Its a matter of record.

WOW!! He's an actor that can speak well. A big celebrity. Kinda sounds like what the Republicans hit Obama with during the campaign. Obama would wipe the floor with this guy, especially after 4 years of experience on the job.

While you are all bashing the Republicans, you are not even aware of Obama's daily lies. Who is going to repay the $14 trillion deficit in 2014? I'm not a Republican, but I am honest to admit that Obama is making many mistakes.

I'm sorry but to run Gary Senise, granted a very generous man both with his time and energy to run for President is ridiculous. This man has no experience running anything, oops we already have a president with those qualifications. Who ever thought of this must be busy mixing a new batch of koolaid.

Other possibilities might include TIna Fey, who plays Sarah Palin much more competently than Palin plays herself. Republicans might also consider Britney Spears, Zachary Pinto (the new Captain Kirk in Star Trek), the Octomom, and Hulk Hogan. Or, perhaps an animated character might best represent Conservative values, like TIme-Warner's Road Runner character (Liberalism could be represented by the Coyote).

“The natural strengths that an actor brings to politics would come in handy to anyone going up against Obama in 2012,” she wrote. “We will need an effective communicator who can stand toe to toe with Obama’s eloquence.”

Wait a minute... did my eyes deceive me or are they FINALLY admitting in a sideways fasion that they finally realize Bush couldn't put two words together and couldn't stand toe-to-toe with others? That he was an ineffective communicator? Yeah, I know Bush isn't mentioned and Obama was, but after 8 years of 'nucular' and 'Merica', it's refreshing to have someone that can be understood in the White House. Are the GOPers realizing that this quality is an essential one in a politician? That Bush' inabilties may have irrevocably destroyed American ideals, Constitutional freedoms and the GOP and this is their first step in trying to undo the damage they caused?

Amazing.

Why not just own up to their mistakes? I'd have a much greater opinion of the GOP if they would just come out and say they screwed up, they know they screwed up and the people who were instrumental in doing so much damage needs to be put on trial. As it is, this 'bury your head in the sand, forget the crimes of the past and only look towards the future' is just the guilty person's way of trying to avoid a jail sentence.

If there is anyting we DON'T need in politics it is another ACTOR! We have had enough of these to last a lifetime. The party of NO has no leaders of their own so they think why not hire another actor to lead them. What nonsense they are to try to pull the wool over our eyes again. We have been there and done that. ENOUGH ALREADY!

Captain Dan a Repub ? Holy Bubba Gump....I used to like him too.

Did I miss the day Mr. Sinise voiced political aspirations? How about you look for someone with substance rather than someone who you think will have the GOP star stuck. Sadly, the GOP and Wallace are still missing the point and until they get I guess Carville will be right.

Gary Sinise, is an actor, not a canidate to run against President Obama, there is no way he beats him. You need to get someone that can run Washington DC not act like he can.

You've got to be kinding me...no one in their right mind could seriously concider Sinse to be a viable presidential candidate. Is this even a real story or a late April Fool's joke?
No offense to Gary Sinse at all...he does a wonderful job with his work in Vet affairs, but that hardly makes him fit for the office of President. Reagan was a governor, Thomson a sentor...but what experience could Sinse have at all? That would make Palin infinitely more qualified by comparasion. Yes the GOP needs an "...effective communicator who can stand toe to toe with Obama’s eloquence.” But that's not all. Jindal has a speaking style like Mr. Rogers, Palin could get a majority of voters if you paid them, unfortunately Romney comes across as a typical stuffed shirt politican...but they do have experience. The GOP needs to pull it's head out of it's &^% soon. Rush and the ghosts of W are destroying the party and reguardless of what others may think, having only one single party in a position of strength isn't good either. Let Sinse continue with his current work w/ Vets, he's needed there and does a great job, and move on to finding a candidate that appeals to a majority of American. After Obama's done, the GOP is going to have to face former VA Gov. Mark Warner and he'll have genuine appeal w/ moderates of both parties.

The games people play... The Repubs just dont get the game days are over... they just don consider; that we the American people are smarter today... We dont fall for anything... And we are not fearful... The joke is really on the Repubs...

The problem is he always plays the bad guy....

If you went by physical attributes only I'd say he would be a good start...tell us some more about the man besides being an actor...

Sergeant Dan?
And Forrest Gump for President, right?

There is an "Imposter" joke in here somewhere.

Sounds like another unserious move from an unserious party.

The GOP is really desperate. Ohhh, he sings for the troops....

Palin is the new leader of the GOP.

Palin has more executive experience than Gary Sinise.

Gary Sinise is an actor...indeed loved him as Lt. Dan.

Palin/OctoMom 2012.... and First Dude for Secretary of State

Why is anyone still listening to Cheney? Who cares what this man thinks or does.

Gary Sinise for President? Are you kidding me?

Geez, it just keeps getting funnier and funnier...

That's all the Republicans are, anyway - image with nothing to back it up. Their constituency listens to rhetoric and never looks at results, so it's no wonder all they're looking for is an actor, instead of someone with real governance expertise.

Yet another epic-fail plan from today's GOP.

Amazing. Repub's in general hold so much disdain for hollywood types yet their all time favorite is Ronnie boy and now this guy. How about Gary Grouch for VP?

That's what they're coming up with to stand "toe to toe" with President Obama in 2012.

Lt. Dan?!?!

Oy vey

The Republicans need to cease throwing out the names of top Military Generals as the saviours of the Republican party. As a former military officer and former Republican myself, no military member will state which party affiliation they belong to as long as they are active duty and in uniform. Doing so is a conflict of interest. I cannot remember General Patraeus nor General Odierno stating their party affiliation. Which they won't as long as they are active duty military members. This is one reason I left the Republican party. I know longer wanted to belong to an organization that took things for granted and no longer accepts big tent thinking.

Yeah right, everyone knows that nothing like this can happen until Boss Limpbag makes it official. I really do not think moderates are welcome in the GOP.

Before you libs go off on a tirade, I've got 2 words for you – Al Franken.

Isn't is kind of sad how the GOP seems to consistently turn to Actors for new blood? Probably because you have to be a good actor if you want to make it look like Republican ideas make any sense at all!

It is true that the GOP is in need of a leader, but what would this man be? A fiscal conservative? Maybe a social conservative or a right-wing neocon? Or maybe a popular figurehead bowing for big business?
Given that all of the above have lost their appeal for most Americans, this leader faces an even greater task than the president himself.
But hey, there's still Limbaugh and Cheney to pull your great party out of trouble...

Noooooooo! Lt. Dan!!!!!

I hope he saved enough money from his acting career,I for one will boycott any movie he is in thereafter.

How many years did Lt. Dan serve in the military? Has he ever held public office? What is his position on stem cell research? Is he in favor of raising taxes to pay for weapons, bomb shelters?

I don't even know if this guy can count without using his fingers and toes, and we're supposed to make him president? That kind of thinking is why I switched to the Dem party last year.

A celebrity is the savior of the GOP? That is so 1980's.

Great! Look what "Terminator" did to California! Does anybody know what are the Gary's political views on anything? Republicans are really desparate, aren't they?
I must admit that I admire him as one great actor; not "hero" but Actor!!

If this were the democrats courting a "hollywood type", the republicans would be all over it like white on rice. Call us in another 7+ years when you have something to say. From the looks of things it is going to take you that long just to find your way out of the mess of Bush, Cheney, Limbaugh and the other old white men of the party.

I'm surprised this actor has not been blacklisted yet by the Hollywood elitists.

The natural strength that an actor brings in? Sorry, but MAN nothing sounds more deceptive......

However, Gary is a pretty good human being, and there are many good people on the republican side. However, the GOP is clearly way too far too the right and has just become a 'moral hammer', which is not going to work at all.

So the question is, who will the republicans back up? It's a no brainer to me that there are two factions within the term republicans, and they should probably make to factions out of it in order to avoid the incompatible overlap. Less strength of central govt and more state control is great, less spending therefore less taxes is great too (once we get the mess cleaned up). The Christian Govt Network? That is where the GOPs failure lies, other republicans would be smart to get off that ship. Not to say you need to abandon your beliefs, just recognize and respect the line between that and govt policies.

Isn't the GOP that always cries about the Hollywood Crowd? And now they want one of that crowd to lead them. The last time they tried that,the man was too lazy to work at it. He made such an impression on me that I can't remember his name. I do remember he played in the movie Hunt For Red October

Sinise should go to Congress before the "president" thing. He is a good guy.

Gee how come the republicans are constantly panning actors, look how they moan and whine about Franken. BUT BUT BUT when the actor is a republican it is a whole different story..He is wonderful...gee what a double standard, but then of course, their republicans what do you expect. That is exactly why they are the party of NO sense, NO character, No nothing.

So the GOP needs a savior? I thought they already had one in God. God wanted them to lose so who are we to question that, right?

Good for the Republican's. Maybe they can get Senise started on the Sunday show circut now so that we don't have to hear more anti-Americanism from Cheney.

Honestly, the American public is sick of the puppets that the GOP set before them (Palin, Limbaugh, Cheney, Hannity). I like Gary Senise as an actor, but I fear he's being used. Just wait – as soon as he says something "moderate" (or should I say, intelligent), the GOP will be ready to throw him under the bus along with Spector and Powell.

No, No, stick to your guns, as Cheney would say. Choose a RUSH of stupidity or FALIN Palin or the Gingrich that keeps trying to steal Christmas. Do not ever give Meghan McCain a chance. Hollywood did work for Reagan.

Why do they keep trying to redo Regan. We have real problems and I don't think someone from central casting will be the answer.

Since the GOP has no substance whatsoever, an actor probably makes perfect sense to them. I would suggest, however, the parrot from Pirates of the Caribbean. Many parrots have a better command of the English language than Bush and, since they're simply rehashing the same sad storyline, should easily be able to take the GOP helm without much effort.

Poor Actor , Poor Ratings, Poor Choice for GOP good for Dems,
almost as good as Chuck Norris or Jon Voight!!!!!!

We don't know yet who will emerge as the new leaders of the Republican Party. One thing I am sure of is that the people and wising up, educating themselves on true politics and it is going to be hard to keep on fooling them.
Who ever the new leaders may be they will have to be people who owe their souls to the American public and not to the CFR (Council on Foreign Relations). Neither the people or the political parties have been picking our public official for the past 100 years, since its foundation, the CFR has.

Only an actor could win an election as a republican, pretend to be "for "the American people!!

There's already an actor in the White House. We don't need another.

My question is about Sinise knowing the issues - Does he? If he does and plans on quiting acting while in running for and serving in office, then that might be something to consider. My major question is about him knowing what to do in office and the issues that confront his district, state or country. Generally I am in favor of most professions have some representatives in Congress; one of my exceptions are actors. Sometimes you don't know if that is what they really believe or a really good performance.

There is no saving this party!
Cheney and Bush should be in jail, instead this television station thinks it is ok to give them a forum to bash our ELECTED President!
I say we boycott them!
Obama is doing GREAT! the last time I checked the GOP was ousted due to BAD performance!
The American people SUPPORT our President!!

The GOP thinks another actor can turn them around? You had Fred Thompson and you saw how well he did in the primary season. This whole party is in need of an ideological bailout no matter who you put up there. Instead of looking around and hoping a savior falls from the sky, how about putting out a platform that outlines your beliefs. Keep moving to the right and embracing your backward idealogues and see where that gets you my friends.

She said the ongoing argument about whether the GOP needs to become more moderate or re-assert its conservative principles is a “media-generated debate” and “a false choice that offers nothing but continued division for Republicans.”

Only 21% will admit to being republican and you're blaming the media? Whew. You'll be a long time in the wilderness. The republican partys extreme hypocracy has been exposed. Small government, fiscal conservatives – they have to lay those to rest, no one is buying it.

Great ! He can act like he really really cares about the common folk !

There is no saving the GOP. Mr. Sinise needs to stick to acting. Not all republicans are Ronald Reaganesque.

I am very disappointed that Actor Gary Sinise is a Re[ublican, he has to be Brain Washed to believe in the Republican Leader "Rush" ! Wake up Gary!

Well, he was good as Harry Truman, but Truman was a Democrat.

It's good the Republicans are finally looking to cast a new face for the role of a lifetime. Sinise is a better actor than Ronald Reagan ever was, but it's hard to see him as anything other than a potential figurehead for the usual GOP suspects.

All I heard last year was about Obama's "celebrity" support, now the Republicans are asking a major actor to be the "New face and voice of the Republican party." Wow, they must be really desperate because all they did the past few years was harp on Obama and his celebrity support. Looks like the Republicans will be eating their own words for lunch today.

I thought Republicans didn't like the celebrity factor? They slammed Obama for having high profile supports in Hollywood. How is this any different? Hypocrisy at its best.

If they are as hateful as the rest god help us all. Let Rush be the leader try to elect him.

So they are up to their mimic game again. NO new ideas let's just copy the oppositions game plan. Republicans – NO NEW IDEAS!

Here's a thought. If you brand is so great then why do you need to change at all? No response needed.

Nicolle Wallace, a top adviser to George W. Bush and John McCain’s presidential campaign, is adding a few names to the list of Republicans who might lead the GOP out of the wilderness.
Top among them? Actor Gary Sinise.

The natural strengths that an actor brings to politics would come in handy to anyone going up against Obama in 2012,” she wrote. “We will need an effective communicator who can stand toe to toe with Obama’s eloquence.”

Hahahahahahaha. Wait till I stop laighing. Didn't the republican party already have an actor who almost screwed the country with his trickle down economics. Man you people are really something. Then they complain about Al Franken. I can hardly stop laughing at the hypocracy of the GOP.

One word “desperation”!

Huh? The guy does good work, no doubt about that. But does that mean he is the "savior" of a whole party? That is totally out of left field. LOL.