CNN Political Ticker
1000 days ago

Boehner responds to Obama's 'person of color' joke


WASHINGTON (CNN) – GOP congressional leader John Boehner is brushing off President Obama’s recent joke about Boehner’s famously permanent tan.

At the White House Correspondents' Association Dinner a week ago, the country’s first African-American president said he had “a lot in common” with Boehner who is Caucasian. “He is a person of color,” Obama joked before a massive ballroom of celebrities and Washington journalists. “Although not a color that appears in the natural world,” Obama added, barely able to keep his composure as he delivered the dig.

“As I tell my friends, you only tease the ones you love,” Boehner said responding to Obama Sunday on CNN’s State of the Union.

“Yeah, I enjoy being outside,” Boehner added, trying to explain his persistently tanned appearance.

“I’d rather be heckled than ignored,” the Ohio Republican told CNN’s John King.


Filed under: Extra • John Boehner • Popular Posts • President Obama • State of the Union
soundoff (304 Responses)
  1. kcl

    What a great response. Take note America.

    May 17, 2009 12:41 pm at 12:41 pm |
  2. Geri N Y

    So what ! Still the party of No. No one cares, The Repubs have nothing new;always The SOS

    May 17, 2009 12:57 pm at 12:57 pm |
  3. Mike in VA

    What's the matter kid? Don't ya like liberals? Aren't they funny? Don't they make ya freakin' laugh?

    May 17, 2009 12:59 pm at 12:59 pm |
  4. Ambrose Smith, Borrego Springs, California

    What?? Bohner actually took the joke with a smile? He's not as uptight and humorless as I thought.

    Ms. Palin gets her panties in a wad by the slightest criticism. She has thin skin.

    Funny joke about Boehner being a man of color.

    May 17, 2009 01:00 pm at 1:00 pm |
  5. P from CA

    Tan in a Tube Boehner actually has a sense of humor?

    May 17, 2009 01:02 pm at 1:02 pm |
  6. John Okon

    The press is looking for something to ignite race topic, which every is scared to talk abt but rather report.

    May 17, 2009 01:08 pm at 1:08 pm |
  7. Rita, MD

    Good response. I'm glad the Senator can take a joke.

    Obama 2012

    May 17, 2009 01:08 pm at 1:08 pm |
  8. DaBird

    What if Boehner had said "Obama, the first half breed President". Obama is applying the rule of Jesse and Al where only white people can be racist.

    May 17, 2009 01:09 pm at 1:09 pm |
  9. Angie

    that is the only thing you can do is make fun of ANYONE in the gop. they are all a joke.

    May 17, 2009 01:10 pm at 1:10 pm |
  10. Henry Miller, Cary, NC

    Yeah, Geri, the party that says no to the destruction of the US economy and the value of the dollar. You got something against that?

    I'm not a big fan of the Republicans anymore–not since they gave up common sense and replaced it with idiotic bible-thumping–but at least they're trying to keep Obama, Pelosi, and the rest of the Dems from saddling our kids with debt they'll never be able to pay off, and inflating the money supply into worthlessness.

    May 17, 2009 01:11 pm at 1:11 pm |
  11. Dale

    Yeah, Boehner enjoys being outdoors....once he's finished his daily tanning booth regimen.
    That 'tan' is about as authentic as his words.

    May 17, 2009 01:13 pm at 1:13 pm |
  12. Paul

    I have been a user of Clinique tan products for many years. And let me tell you John Bohner should be the poster guy for the product, or maybe it's those excess nicotine stains from those cigirates he so loves and cherishes.

    May 17, 2009 01:14 pm at 1:14 pm |
  13. Dave

    Keep using the tanning booth, Mr. Boehner. Melanoma can't be that far away

    May 17, 2009 01:14 pm at 1:14 pm |
  14. carlos

    he doesn't use water.....the beener washes with coke, hehehehe

    May 17, 2009 01:16 pm at 1:16 pm |
  15. TCM

    obama shouldn't joke about anyone; he's the biggest joke to occupy the white house.

    May 17, 2009 01:17 pm at 1:17 pm |
  16. GenTwelve

    I'm wondering if the President has a problem with white folks?

    May 17, 2009 01:17 pm at 1:17 pm |
  17. Comradio

    Well, Dem's, if you can't read between the lines of the last handful of articles the Libertarians(the young)will be what becomes our real opponent in the future. And they are a REAL opponent. AND AM inciter Glen Beck is trying to hijack their movement. All signs point to that future folks, for gods sake, remember on thing, we may be here now but it took 8 years and BUSH to get here. The other side is almost always more organized, it's a fact now. Without Obama we've got nothing...

    May 17, 2009 01:17 pm at 1:17 pm |
  18. proud army navy mom

    while i despise bone, that was a good comeback for him

    May 17, 2009 01:18 pm at 1:18 pm |
  19. Mary

    He had to take the joke, because otherwise, people would comment on those elitist froufrou English cigarettes he smokes constantly. He uses the man tan to cover up the wrinkles caused by all that smoking he does.

    May 17, 2009 01:19 pm at 1:19 pm |
  20. German,Irish American

    Ambrose Smith Borrego Springs, California- Ms. Palin gets her panties in a wad by the slightest criticism. She has thin skin. Palin was not even mentioned, but you libs feel the need to try to slam her. How about if the shoe was on the other foot, and Palin had joked that Michelle Obama married a man of color since Barrack is half white? Would you be rolling on the floor laughing over the color remark, or calling Palin a bigoted racist?

    May 17, 2009 01:19 pm at 1:19 pm |
  21. Tony

    Wow politicians with a sense of humor and not on the defensive. Kudos to the prez for making a joke about skin color and people not getting their panties in a wad. Lets meet in the middle people this is our country. Give a little-get a little, even if it was a joke, it was a step

    May 17, 2009 01:19 pm at 1:19 pm |
  22. Jim El Paso Tx.

    Amazing Boehner didn't condem Obama for making a racist comment:)

    May 17, 2009 01:19 pm at 1:19 pm |
  23. George

    If John Boehner would act like this day to day, he could be an asset to our country. Seems he can handle being kidded anyway. Now is time for all on both side to lighten up and do some good for America.

    May 17, 2009 01:20 pm at 1:20 pm |
  24. Marcia, Marcia, Marcia in CA

    You have a tanning booth outside, do ya?

    Most the time he looks a gross orange. Does anybody ever tell him?

    May 17, 2009 01:21 pm at 1:21 pm |
  25. Kim, Dallas, TX

    Nice to see that some in Washington still have a sense of humor. Lately it has appeared to be very tense.

    May 17, 2009 01:21 pm at 1:21 pm |
  26. Bobby

    Tan or not, white is a color. Then again, do ethnic groups that appear white to us, such as serbs or french, care about whiteness more than ethnic differences?

    May 17, 2009 01:21 pm at 1:21 pm |
  27. Not Ruth Lyons

    Holy smokes, the guy does have a sense of humor. Cincinnati Chilie for everyone.

    May 17, 2009 01:21 pm at 1:21 pm |
  28. the rector

    The funny thing is that Boehner is actually darker than obama some of the time.

    May 17, 2009 01:22 pm at 1:22 pm |
  29. Bill

    As an Obama supporter, I applaud you Mr Boehner, nice response and you are not apologetic for your tan.

    May 17, 2009 01:23 pm at 1:23 pm |
  30. Cal

    There's no way he gets that tan naturally. It's there all year round and it isn't that sunny in Ohio and DC in the winter. He's got to have a tanning bed in his house.

    May 17, 2009 01:23 pm at 1:23 pm |
  31. 60's survivor

    well there's a perspective I would have never thought of. refreshing. we all need to lighten up. uhhh no pun Intended! ;-)

    May 17, 2009 01:31 pm at 1:31 pm |
  32. obambi

    Boehner is a class act–which is more than I can say for BO–who continually plays the race card in some form. Who cares if Boehner has a tan? he , at least takes his job seriously–which is more than I can say for Obama.

    May 17, 2009 01:32 pm at 1:32 pm |
  33. Dave from Jacksonville

    Perhaps he is getting that color as it "rubs" off Charlie Crist!

    May 17, 2009 01:33 pm at 1:33 pm |
  34. j. stowe

    Good to see they can play nice.

    May 17, 2009 01:35 pm at 1:35 pm |
  35. Spencer

    To be honest I expected the response to be more ridiculous instead of reasonable. GOP members have repeatedly overreacted to everything not GOP mandated. Glad to see there is one reasonable GOP member.

    May 17, 2009 01:35 pm at 1:35 pm |
  36. maria

    to Geri NY and ambrose....you must really lead miserable lives if all you do is sit and attack anyone, anything that has an ounce of integrity more than the messiah who sat and listened to Wright attack america and all whites. [And, I'm not even white!] Why don't you read barack's books and said all whites were demons? Is this the type of person/man you want to continuously follow blindley? appears so. bec you have no integrity or brains yourself. Sounds like you both are paid hackers who are paid to trash anyone who might appear to critizize barak. Shows you'll never amount to anything in your lives. good riddance.

    May 17, 2009 01:36 pm at 1:36 pm |
  37. unnecessary1

    Figures that the first black president is the first ghetto president. he is arrogant, stuck up, inexperienced and clueless. he is going to get us all killed and we will all be broke and dependent on a Marxist government. All the while, his admin just throws our smoke and mirrors to occupy the uneducated while he turns us to socialism.

    And we care about boehners skin color... why?

    May 17, 2009 01:37 pm at 1:37 pm |
  38. Dan In Nor-Cal

    I'm completely shocked this guy had a sense of humor about it. With all his "No-Mommy I don' Wanna!" whining as of late with his fellow Repuklicans, I'm shocked!

    Alright boner way to go ! Stand up tall! Err...

    May 17, 2009 01:37 pm at 1:37 pm |
  39. BeefMasterX

    Let's hear more jokes about the skin color of people!!
    Obama is the funniest white guy I've seen in a long time.

    May 17, 2009 01:38 pm at 1:38 pm |
  40. sprkl12000

    Take note of what???

    Well if he any other response (i.e. negative reaction) he would have affirmed what folks already knew..he has a stick up the butt...this was dumb for King to even bring up...Boehner NEEDED to show that he had a sense of humor and was human on some levels...not a big deal...

    May 17, 2009 01:39 pm at 1:39 pm |
  41. FCR

    kcl May 17th, 2009 12:41 pm ET

    What a great response. Take note America.

    What? You think Boehner's the next president? Really!

    May 17, 2009 01:40 pm at 1:40 pm |
  42. smiff

    Sure hope his kidneys dont fail!!! Nothing common respect and decency I say.

    May 17, 2009 01:40 pm at 1:40 pm |
  43. Peter E

    I wish more republicans and democrats took each-others' digs with such smile, and argue over only real issues, not made-up controversies. Good job both!

    May 17, 2009 01:41 pm at 1:41 pm |
  44. A. D.

    It goes you only hurt the one you love. If we go by what the other color guy says,Boehner, then you guys must love our President more than his supporters do. Because you and your Republican Gang have been on Obama's case since day one. Calling him everything but a child of God. Now Boehner wants us to believe that tan comes from him being outside. Ha! Ha! Ha! Ha! Ha! Ha! It seems I can't stop laughing.

    May 17, 2009 01:42 pm at 1:42 pm |
  45. Charlie in Maine

    That is what is missing. Good natured humor. Please sir may I have some more?

    May 17, 2009 01:42 pm at 1:42 pm |
  46. Libertarian

    I watched the interview. Judging by his expression – he didn't take it so well. His response...."I spend a good deal of time on the golf course". Perfect, just want we want from our Congressional leaders. Out playing golf most of the time with Haliburton executives? Guess that beats hunting with Cheney.

    May 17, 2009 01:43 pm at 1:43 pm |
  47. steve fielder

    "Yeah, I enjoy being outside" ... Where, John? In the Virgin Islands? The people from Ohio I know don't have tans like yours, especially in wintertime.

    May 17, 2009 01:44 pm at 1:44 pm |
  48. Helen

    Be careful Bone Head. You may get skin cancer if you stay in the sun too much.

    May 17, 2009 01:45 pm at 1:45 pm |
  49. Joyce

    It is about time a Republican responded with a smile. I didn't think any of them had a sense of humor. I don't like John Boehner, as I think he doesn't have a clue about average people, but for the first time, I liked his response. Maybe there is light at the end of the tunnel..........Do you think this is possible?????

    May 17, 2009 01:50 pm at 1:50 pm |
  50. Junie

    Boehner often scares me the way he looks when he disagrees with President Obama's policies/decisions. Today, I saw a very different side of him that not only pleased me but also made me realize that he does lighten up with humor and that is a good thing!

    Junie

    May 17, 2009 01:51 pm at 1:51 pm |
  51. Sabilla

    Good sport. Now that's refreshing.

    May 17, 2009 01:53 pm at 1:53 pm |
  52. Peter E

    You who's most mad about this repsonse, right? It's the media. They couldn't push yet another made-up controversy onto the public. It was only a joke, it was taken as a joke, nobody got offended. The media has to find a different made-up controversy now.

    May 17, 2009 01:53 pm at 1:53 pm |
  53. Pat in IL

    Nothing political here......just a josh between these two, and the one who got "joshed" took it at face value and didn't go on and try to make something more of it – unlike some other politicians. I like someone who can take a small joke.

    May 17, 2009 01:54 pm at 1:54 pm |
  54. RufusVonDufus

    Great reply to a good-natured ribbing. Good job, John!

    May 17, 2009 01:54 pm at 1:54 pm |
  55. Peter

    This is nice, he is laughing it off. Limbaugh will kill him

    May 17, 2009 01:54 pm at 1:54 pm |
  56. been there

    I don't believe there is much he can say, don't you agree.!!!!!!!!!! I don't believe you can get a tan like that in the winter time, didn't think so.....

    May 17, 2009 01:55 pm at 1:55 pm |
  57. Ray Fisher

    Color is more than simply skin pigment, I took the President's comment to allude to his colorful speaking and creative truth bending, am I delusional???

    May 17, 2009 01:59 pm at 1:59 pm |
  58. Conservative and Proud

    No, MRS. Palin doesn't like criticism of her family. She appeared on SNL after they made fun of her, right? Plus, you become the most criticized person in the world, let's see how thin your skin gets.

    May 17, 2009 01:59 pm at 1:59 pm |
  59. lo

    Ha... Just about the only exchange between a senior republican and Obama that hasn't been ugly...

    May 17, 2009 02:00 pm at 2:00 pm |
  60. barry

    Now that's the way to answer...with a civil word, a smile and a great counter-riposte...who wouldn't want to love that guy. This Republican is showing members on BOTH parties the way...

    May 17, 2009 02:01 pm at 2:01 pm |
  61. geo

    Imagine the national rioting if that comment were reversed! What a pathetic one way street this liberal crap is.

    May 17, 2009 02:03 pm at 2:03 pm |
  62. RJJH

    kcl,
    Exactly which line is the great response? " As I tell my friends, you only tease the ones you love,” “Yeah, I enjoy being outside,” “I’d rather be heckled than ignored,”
    I mean seriously, are lines like these the best that the Party of old white guys like the Newt and the Face Shooter can hang their hats on?

    May 17, 2009 02:03 pm at 2:03 pm |
  63. ken

    have to agree i cannot believe the senator took the joke as well as he did. wouldn't it be great if these people just did the work they were supposed to without all the hoopla and grandstanding its like they all feel they are still courtroom lawyers trying to win a jury over

    May 17, 2009 02:05 pm at 2:05 pm |
  64. Hammer

    Try that "joke" in reverse with Boehner saying that about Obama and watch the hate mongers on the left and in the black community scream.

    May 17, 2009 02:06 pm at 2:06 pm |
  65. Bill in Austin

    I'm surprised. He didn't find a way to spin this into something negative that affects national security, the economy, or the admininstration.

    May 17, 2009 02:09 pm at 2:09 pm |
  66. A.G.

    I'm just now really getting that joke. I thought he meant a colorful person because he has an over the top personality. I'll never forget the time he cried to make it seem like he was making a passionate point. I still think it was fake. He's more interesting than the rest of the GOP except for Palin of course.

    May 17, 2009 02:10 pm at 2:10 pm |
  67. John Farren

    Now if we could keep all politics light-hearted and civil, just think how much better of country we would be.

    May 17, 2009 02:10 pm at 2:10 pm |
  68. Mark

    I'm glad Boehner took it so well, even if I totally don't believe his tan comes from anything resembling spending time out-of-doors. The likes of Palin and Limbaugh should definitely take note.

    May 17, 2009 02:13 pm at 2:13 pm |
  69. Maggie

    I am caucasian and brown, tan and beige have alwaasys been by favorit colors therefore when I see the person I do not think of a color I dislikeIt is what is upstairs I think about. Some people's brains are just evil and some are not. what they do or say is what counts.

    May 17, 2009 02:14 pm at 2:14 pm |
  70. Claudia in Houson

    Boehner admitted he's on the golf course all day which gives him his tan. Is Boehner being paid to play golf on your time and money, he's suppose to be a senator and not a professional golf player who plays all day.

    May 17, 2009 02:15 pm at 2:15 pm |
  71. swamper68

    Glad to see a little lighthearted banter in these stressful times. Enjoyed Mr. B.'s take on all subjects he spoke on this AM.

    May 17, 2009 02:16 pm at 2:16 pm |
  72. Kate

    Now, THIS is how you respond to a joke! Thank you!

    May 17, 2009 02:17 pm at 2:17 pm |
  73. magella

    Great joke, and the first part of Boehner's response was good too. As for him being a person who spends a lot of time outside–isn't he from Ohio? Last time I checked it was pretty hard to get a tan there between October and April.

    May 17, 2009 02:17 pm at 2:17 pm |
  74. Bonnie

    Looks to me like he would also rather be black than white.

    May 17, 2009 02:17 pm at 2:17 pm |
  75. WanderSF

    I'm surprised the repubs didn't call for an investigation.

    May 17, 2009 02:18 pm at 2:18 pm |
  76. Too True For You

    It only took us 5/12 months for Boehner's first non partisan, non-diversive, rhetoric-free statement.

    I am amazed he passed up the opportunity to find some way to use this to slam Omaba.

    May 17, 2009 02:23 pm at 2:23 pm |
  77. Boehner is a class act

    I would take Boehner over Pelosi or Reid or Barney Frank in a heartbeat. Congressman Boehner is a class act, and always has been.

    May 17, 2009 02:25 pm at 2:25 pm |
  78. Jean

    Gov. Sarah Palin of Alaska, a strong pro-life advocate, weighed in on the issue with Holly Robichaud by e-mail:

    “My favorite grandpa, Clem James Sheeran, was Catholic. Irish to the core, his favorite place (other than church) was Notre Dame. I can’t imagine what he would think as the university recognizes someone who contradicts the core values of the Catholic faith by promoting an anti-life agenda. As we learned today, our nation is more pro-life than ever before; it is a very important time to strengthen the message that every baby is created for good purpose and has the potential to make this world a better place.”

    May 17, 2009 02:27 pm at 2:27 pm |
  79. Robbi

    Well done, Boehner, a classy response to a harmless joke.

    May 17, 2009 02:28 pm at 2:28 pm |
  80. perks

    So in Obama/Media world if I go to the tanning booth do I get some affirmative "action", pay a "fake sun" tax, or get denied cancer treatment by the local "health administrator"?

    May 17, 2009 02:28 pm at 2:28 pm |
  81. marie

    Who doesn't find Boehner ridiculously funny? This man has ZERO relevancy. ZERO.

    May 17, 2009 02:30 pm at 2:30 pm |
  82. Bob

    Yeah right you moran, lets get Palin in on this.

    May 17, 2009 02:30 pm at 2:30 pm |
  83. Sarah K.

    Hey Geri, why do you have to take it beyond what it is. Obama made a funny joke, Boehner responded good naturedly, end of story. Why continue with an unprovoked attack on the Rebuplicans. Your party is beginning to sound like a party of hate.

    May 17, 2009 02:30 pm at 2:30 pm |
  84. Kel

    I like to see this. No need to get angry over a joke. While many people would take this opportunity to make this a controversy, Boehner takes it as it is... a joke. Similarly I thought Palin was a good sport about SNL until she blamed them after she lost... Her loss was nobody's fault but her own and McCain's for picking her in the first place.

    May 17, 2009 02:31 pm at 2:31 pm |
  85. tess

    republicans have always had a great humor – it's the dems who can't laugh at themselves and take everything with such bitterness! if you really want to make a democrat furious, just tell a joke on them and watch out – they will start slinging vile attacks (somebody needs to teach those idiots how to laugh)

    May 17, 2009 02:33 pm at 2:33 pm |
  86. Julia

    Nice. Good to see John has a sense of humor. He's usually wound just a little. too. tight.

    May 17, 2009 02:34 pm at 2:34 pm |
  87. God

    If only he'd stay outside, permanently, the country would be better off without him.

    May 17, 2009 02:34 pm at 2:34 pm |
  88. Audrey in VA

    I hope he defeats Obama for prez in 2012.

    May 17, 2009 02:35 pm at 2:35 pm |
  89. James

    "yeah I enjoy being outside"....yeah, as long as "outside" = "tanning bed"

    May 17, 2009 02:38 pm at 2:38 pm |
  90. chris dobbs

    i'm sorry...it's not that sunny in ohio in jan., and feb. john "boner" is lying. that seems to be the republican response to everything these days. no original ideas on how to fix the economy,end the wars they started, hell all they do is complain. bunch of cry babies.

    May 17, 2009 02:39 pm at 2:39 pm |
  91. JoeC

    This story omitted the real punchline....after a masterfully timed pause, Obama said, "Hey, John....wassup?"

    May 17, 2009 02:43 pm at 2:43 pm |
  92. M J

    Boehner, considered yourself ignored. Please go away and do no more harm.

    May 17, 2009 02:44 pm at 2:44 pm |
  93. George Delacruz

    I guess Boehner uses "Man Tan' a product from the 60's What a moroon...

    May 17, 2009 02:45 pm at 2:45 pm |
  94. Roberta

    I like it "I'd rather be heckled than ignored", what a good take on things.

    May 17, 2009 02:46 pm at 2:46 pm |
  95. Ken in NC

    I thought the joke was humorous and I am glad that the Senator has responded in an accepting manner. I am sure he is aware of the fact that this was a night of humor even if I do feel Wanda Sykes did cross the line in her references to Rush Limbaugh. I do think her remarks about his kidney and the 20th hijacker was over the line.

    While the Senator may not have liked the joke, I am respectful of him for openly accepting it as humor.

    May 17, 2009 02:52 pm at 2:52 pm |
  96. pj

    Surprised but impressed to see how light Boehner took the "person of color" joke. Seriously speaking, how come he got the tan?

    May 17, 2009 02:53 pm at 2:53 pm |
  97. MJ

    I LOLed.

    May 17, 2009 02:54 pm at 2:54 pm |
  98. Sarah

    What else was he gonna say? I'm glad he responded with grace.

    May 17, 2009 02:54 pm at 2:54 pm |
  99. BigSherm7

    At first I didn't get the joke, but then, when I saw Rep. Boehner I got it . . .

    May 17, 2009 02:55 pm at 2:55 pm |
  100. Milo

    Very funny! :-)

    May 17, 2009 02:56 pm at 2:56 pm |
  101. J in MD

    I wonder what the press would have said if a Caucasian politician had referred to an African-American politician's skin tone as unnatural. I'm guessing CNN would be howling, not chuckling its smug collective little head.

    May 17, 2009 03:00 pm at 3:00 pm |
  102. ELJ

    How funny. I seriously thought the President was referring to Senator Boehner's "color" of ties.

    May 17, 2009 03:03 pm at 3:03 pm |
  103. Tim

    I'll give him a golf clap on the response. Good to see some people can take a joke–at least occasionally.

    May 17, 2009 03:03 pm at 3:03 pm |
  104. RZ

    It is refreshing that both parties can joke about each other without going psycho about it.

    May 17, 2009 03:05 pm at 3:05 pm |
  105. Rickymo

    This is news?

    May 17, 2009 03:08 pm at 3:08 pm |
  106. hellokitti

    I think some playful chiding is a very positive thing. Congrats to both of them for the give and take.

    May 17, 2009 03:09 pm at 3:09 pm |
  107. Yossi Gestetner

    Listen mister Ambrose Smith: some jokes ARE funnt and are made to accept easy. Other jokes, including the one about Palin & Limbaugh, are NOT funny at all.

    May 17, 2009 03:09 pm at 3:09 pm |
  108. Gop

    Well ok, so a Republican takes a joke from Obama as nothing more then fun and you liberals still try to put him down.

    If a Republican had said this about your God the mighty Obama you have your panties in a bunch and want him thrown under a bus by the GOP.

    For the person that wants to parrot the same tired old line calling the GOP a party of No better understand maybe when your president is spending trillions of dollars on worthless projects that will not help our economy you want someone telling him No.

    I recall the Democrats telling Bush No every time he asks for money for the wars. Yet no one in the GOP was calling them the party of No. When your child wants something that is bad for him, do you Liberals just say yes to them? Sorry but some times saying No is the right thing to do.

    But then again I have a hard time believing you Democrat Liberals know right from wrong!!

    May 17, 2009 03:09 pm at 3:09 pm |
  109. No Incumbents in 2010

    At least Boehner is honest and admits his vanity.

    May 17, 2009 03:09 pm at 3:09 pm |
  110. Larry

    President Obama,who's your daddy ??

    May 17, 2009 03:11 pm at 3:11 pm |
  111. David Thomas

    Thanks, Congressman, for a classy response to a classy joke. If we could just have more of this is in Washington, someone might get something accomplished for the benefit of the country.

    May 17, 2009 03:13 pm at 3:13 pm |
  112. Dace Tucson

    This hideous liar can't even tell the truth about his tanning bed. But if we wait a day he will have press conference saying the exact opposite. Just like he did when trying to frame Pelosi saying the CIA never lies – yet in the recent past he is on TV saying they lie. How can you tell when a GOP is lying – when their mouth is moving.

    May 17, 2009 03:14 pm at 3:14 pm |
  113. Stephen

    I'm a Dem and when I heard the joke I kinda worried how Boehner might take it. Nice to see he had such a good attitude about it.

    May 17, 2009 03:14 pm at 3:14 pm |
  114. Lisa

    Slow news day!

    May 17, 2009 03:15 pm at 3:15 pm |
  115. gl, Pittsburgh

    Bohner actually took the joke with a smile? and that is a first. Thank you President Obama – you he can move a mountain.

    May 17, 2009 03:15 pm at 3:15 pm |
  116. Glen Shouse Jr., Georgetown, IL

    Boehner seems to be a good man to me. Many republicans lately would have taken that and tried to turn it into a negative. Good for you Boener. People usually talk about people they either dislike or people they respect. In the atmosphere that the joke was made I see it as a show of respect. Wasn't that the tone of the whole thing anyway? Didn't everyone else have jokes?

    May 17, 2009 03:16 pm at 3:16 pm |
  117. Joanna

    Oh that was so funny when Obama said that. I was doubled over. What is up with that spray tan John?

    May 17, 2009 03:24 pm at 3:24 pm |
  118. Georgia Gal

    Okay, so I'm going to lecture here for a second (sorry, but I had someone very close to be die of skin cancer and I am fair skinned (not that Boehner is, but still it can happen to anyone) too, so its something I take very seriously). He may love getting out in the sun, but he needs to be careful. The ozone is practically nil and more and more people get skin cancer every day.

    May 17, 2009 03:26 pm at 3:26 pm |
  119. rob

    With all the hecking he does of reporters about their hair, he ought to be able to take a ribbing. Well, glad to see a Repub with a sense of humor. They are rare.

    May 17, 2009 03:27 pm at 3:27 pm |
  120. glen

    Good response. Ridicule is one of the top 5 ways radicals teach to try to bring down their opponents. Way to beat them at their own game,Bohner.

    May 17, 2009 03:32 pm at 3:32 pm |
  121. The Broker.

    God is Pink!

    May 17, 2009 03:32 pm at 3:32 pm |
  122. glen

    Great response!! Way to beat him at his own game!

    May 17, 2009 03:35 pm at 3:35 pm |
  123. ray

    Boehner took that joke with a lot of class, when I first saw the title, I thought he would be anry and hostile but he responded very classy. This restores my hope in the republican party although I will never vote for them.

    May 17, 2009 03:36 pm at 3:36 pm |
  124. glen

    You let Geri N Y say the Repubs have nothing but the SOS and my very respectful comment –needs moderation! What a joke! But very typical
    of L

    May 17, 2009 03:39 pm at 3:39 pm |
  125. D. Tree

    "I enjoy being outside"

    LOL, is that seriously his answer? They guy has no idea he looks like Ernie from Sesame St? :-D

    May 17, 2009 03:41 pm at 3:41 pm |
  126. glen

    You let Geri N Y say the Repubs have nothing but the SOS and my very respectful comment –needs moderation! What a joke! Are you so stupid that you don't know what SOS stands for? But very typical
    of LIBERAL CNN. I had you in my morning coffee cup but no more.
    If it weren't for Lou Dobbs no one would watch CNN!

    May 17, 2009 03:42 pm at 3:42 pm |
  127. GOPer

    A horrible leader for our party. We are in dire need of new leadership!!!

    May 17, 2009 03:43 pm at 3:43 pm |
  128. LouAz

    One interview gets four individual stories ? Do you get paid by the inch ? Is Boehner so profound that each statement warrants it's own distinct story ? This smells like FOX Noise.

    May 17, 2009 03:43 pm at 3:43 pm |
  129. Marge

    Now I would have asked him if he had a bulldog with that face he would certainly be mistaken for one.....not kidding boehner.

    May 17, 2009 03:44 pm at 3:44 pm |
  130. Bethie

    Ohhhhhh............SLAMMER! John Boehner is a complete idiot who has spouted off about everybody and everything. President Obama just hammered him home! Nice!

    May 17, 2009 03:49 pm at 3:49 pm |
  131. David

    Well Well

    Where are the Catholics when the Pope says it is sinful to ware condoms to stop the spread of AIDS? Hey Catholics lets do something about Priest RAPING young boys. Lets adopt all the children with no homes. Let help the ones dieing of AIDS. No you are not a christen group. You are rapist and murders. Help the world. Clean up you own yard.

    May 17, 2009 03:49 pm at 3:49 pm |
  132. Rotor

    America has become such a self defeating country. Any other country can throw a rock in the middle of America and someone would pick it up and throw it at another American. It seems no one hates us as much as we hate ourselves. A Frenchman could stand in a bucket of poop and if he was told it was French poop he would tell you it was the best poop in the world. What has become of Americans? Basically, the influx on immigrants flooding our country causing an out of balance of the once safe and hard working America.

    May 17, 2009 03:54 pm at 3:54 pm |
  133. Quarterback

    Bonehead may be a narsissitic personality disorder. At least he didn't blame eating too many carrots as the culprit for his strange coloration.

    I grew up in Ohio. There's no sun there. There's been no sun since 1956. Thank god I'm 1200 miles away from this lunatic.

    May 17, 2009 03:56 pm at 3:56 pm |
  134. Mike FROM CALGARY

    John Boehner and barck Obama just exude dignity and class. Kudos to both of them!

    May 17, 2009 04:01 pm at 4:01 pm |
  135. Ed

    At least this president has a sense of humor AND knows how to deliver a joke. Agree with him or not, you have to admit he can be funny.

    May 17, 2009 04:02 pm at 4:02 pm |
  136. normajean

    At least Boehner responded to the presidents "tan" joke, He is so stone faced most of the time that you wonder if he is real or a waxed dummy.I don't think I've ever seen him even smile.

    May 17, 2009 04:03 pm at 4:03 pm |
  137. Lynn

    You don't get that color of skin from any sun I have been under!!!

    May 17, 2009 04:08 pm at 4:08 pm |
  138. Had It

    The Boner's tan is not from sun or sun lamps. That color is produced ONLY by the "rub on lotions" that are used for "quick tans".

    Does he think we're all stupid?

    May 17, 2009 04:09 pm at 4:09 pm |
  139. Uerdnaglibmimobnip

    I think Boehner is just glad no one is calling him "Boner".

    May 17, 2009 04:11 pm at 4:11 pm |
  140. kimberly

    OK this is TOO funny!!! He is running on about lies and thinks ANYONE believes this SPRAY ON TAN is REAL???? HAHAHAHA, him and donald trump are ORANGE, someone should fire the moron that sprays them to look like umpa loompas!

    May 17, 2009 04:12 pm at 4:12 pm |
  141. alvino

    Woody finally acted human.

    May 17, 2009 04:12 pm at 4:12 pm |
  142. PQ

    He enjoys being outside? Are there tanning salons outside?

    May 17, 2009 04:14 pm at 4:14 pm |
  143. sharvey62

    Enjoy being outside? Please. Most lifeguards don't even get that tanned. That's definitely a spray-on.

    May 17, 2009 04:14 pm at 4:14 pm |
  144. Mk.

    ich! YuuuK!
    Do you walk around the golf course spraying on Bronzer?

    May 17, 2009 04:14 pm at 4:14 pm |
  145. usnuzuluze

    Hey Ambrose, at least Ms. Pailn wears panties, if it is up to Obama and his push for homosexuality even you may be wearing panties soon.

    May 17, 2009 04:15 pm at 4:15 pm |
  146. Get on with the problems at hand.

    Outside my foot.... I know a tanning bed tan when I see one.... And he has one.

    May 17, 2009 04:16 pm at 4:16 pm |
  147. ObamaGirl

    I may not agree with you or your party, Mr. Boehner, but it was refreshing to see this side of you.

    May 17, 2009 04:19 pm at 4:19 pm |
  148. wakeupamerica

    At least Mr. Perpetually Tan can take a joke!

    May 17, 2009 04:21 pm at 4:21 pm |
  149. Bethie

    If the GOP has any chance for survivial, they need to over-haul the nut jobs they have now. Period.

    May 17, 2009 04:23 pm at 4:23 pm |
  150. outlander

    only white males can be ridiculed...apparently they are fair game...so sorry, time to stand up and be counted – great response to a "racist" comment as only those of color can make those comments without being called "racist". double standard typical of liberal facists.

    May 17, 2009 04:23 pm at 4:23 pm |
  151. Joanna

    Obama missed his calling ... he should have been a comedian ... oh wait ... he is !!

    May 17, 2009 04:30 pm at 4:30 pm |
  152. Joanna

    Oooops .. I forgot to add ... he is the joke.

    May 17, 2009 04:32 pm at 4:32 pm |
  153. Barbara - Atlanta

    Boehner couldn't help but be amused...the President was funny.

    May 17, 2009 04:34 pm at 4:34 pm |
  154. ella

    Natural tan? Now that was the biggest joke I've heard in a very long time.

    May 17, 2009 04:37 pm at 4:37 pm |
  155. Mary Clark

    Can we all stop with the very denigrating remarks – both from the far left as well as the far right? I'm a strong Obama supporter – a devout Catholic – supporter of abortion rights, etc. – so much for labels! Rep Boehner responded to the joke with class so can't the left give him some credit?? It is so depressing to read some of these remarks from the left & Democrats – as well as the far right. And yes I know the far right is also way out of line. But let's all try to maintain some kind of decorum and respect for other folk's point of view.

    May 17, 2009 04:39 pm at 4:39 pm |
  156. Gambi

    Most of the time I cringe everytime John Boehner responds to the President........this time I appreciate his comments and being a good sport about it.

    May 17, 2009 04:48 pm at 4:48 pm |
  157. mary

    Boehner, did not like the joke, it's written all over his face. He is so anti-Obama. Now, if they would all work together to get things right, can you imagine how far they would have gotten with all of the problems that we are facing today, John Boehner, the ring leader of the Rebublicans are showing the entire world their true COLORS and a fake SMILE.

    May 17, 2009 04:49 pm at 4:49 pm |
  158. Ellis

    'Ain't Obama sweet? Yes, let's see how funny Obama would think this is in reverse. Double standard, but who made it that way
    American white men? You get what you work for.

    May 17, 2009 04:50 pm at 4:50 pm |
  159. SRB --- Wisconsin

    OMG Its a joke simply that, it wasn't racial. Only the GOP would SPIN this into anything other then a simple joke. He picked on Hilary Clinton. Is Obama going to be tagged for that as well by the GOP. This world of two parties is driving me nuts maybe we should add more parties this way we won't have to deal with this crap.

    May 17, 2009 04:55 pm at 4:55 pm |
  160. Zion

    @DaBird

    Pres. Obama called himself a mutt when he first got his dog, and he laughed almost without restraint. I'm so tired of white people like yourself (I apologize to whites with a sense of humor) playing the victim card. Don't accuse blacks of playing the vicitim card when you are more than willing to play it yourself.

    May 17, 2009 04:55 pm at 4:55 pm |
  161. Annette in Atlanta

    Hey....What's with the title of this story being called Obama's Racial joke?

    May 17, 2009 04:56 pm at 4:56 pm |
  162. A ROCK AND A HARD PLACE...

    Boehner can't react too stronly because then he appears to be insulted by being referred to as a person of color...this is rich!!!

    May 17, 2009 04:58 pm at 4:58 pm |
  163. Don in Grand Rapids, Mi

    Why is it that the Democrats and Obama are the only ones that are bent on injecting the race issue into our country? If a white person or a Republican had cracked this humor, they would have been cruicfied in the press!

    May 17, 2009 05:00 pm at 5:00 pm |
  164. David in West Virginia

    Do you mean to tell me that it took John Boehner a week to respond to the joke? Like all republicans, they are a day late and a doller short. I'm surprised they even get the joke!

    May 17, 2009 05:01 pm at 5:01 pm |
  165. andrea

    The GOP congressional leader frequents tanning salons? That's funny!! Diversity is always good. Nice to have an adonistic congressman

    May 17, 2009 05:01 pm at 5:01 pm |
  166. welches, oregon

    .....and the conservatives have absolutely NO sense of humor.

    May 17, 2009 05:03 pm at 5:03 pm |
  167. jcow

    When is it nice to be petty and snide? I think the joke was below the President and Bohner was being gracious.

    May 17, 2009 05:04 pm at 5:04 pm |
  168. Michael Poligone

    John Boehner's opinion that Cheney, Limbaugh and Gingrich are not hurting the Republican party tells me something. At the rate they're going, they can hold the next Republican National Convention in a good sized church.

    Michael
    Orlando

    May 17, 2009 05:05 pm at 5:05 pm |
  169. Eric

    Was the joke racial??? Nice change of headline, CNN (spin things up a little).....

    May 17, 2009 05:07 pm at 5:07 pm |
  170. Proud American

    I guess my question would be is it such a bad thing to be an African American?

    May 17, 2009 05:08 pm at 5:08 pm |
  171. Flappdoodle

    I understand you can only be a racist if you're in power.

    May 17, 2009 05:12 pm at 5:12 pm |
  172. Dave

    Ellis, your comment makes no sense except to label you an angry white man.

    May 17, 2009 05:12 pm at 5:12 pm |
  173. LesC

    Suntan? Just shows you how little I know. I'm one of his constituents and I have always thought that his skin color came from all the cigarette tar leaching out to the surface of his skin.

    May 17, 2009 05:13 pm at 5:13 pm |
  174. Tony Justin

    Mr. Boehner's skin color reflects the application of a sunless tanning cream or foam. If he had a tanning bed or was outside, he would have a different hue to his skin color (less orange, more brown). I think he could be an effective spokesperson for the sunless tanning industry.

    May 17, 2009 05:15 pm at 5:15 pm |
  175. Susan in NC

    Could CNN possibly give John Boehner any more coverage today? Enough already!

    May 17, 2009 05:19 pm at 5:19 pm |
  176. Gimee A. Breyk

    Hey...racism is racism no matter who says it. All typical white women know this and now those who are tanned do too.
    Just because he is black and president does not mean he is immune from human traits- good and bad.

    May 17, 2009 05:22 pm at 5:22 pm |
  177. Debbie

    Poor Ellis. It's got to be hard being born a white man in America. Especially one that has no sense of humor. I'm sure there's a support group you can attend. You are in my prayers.

    May 17, 2009 05:22 pm at 5:22 pm |
  178. xddy4u

    When is the Media going to stop digging in week old manure?

    May 17, 2009 05:23 pm at 5:23 pm |
  179. Biff

    I think Obama's comment was funny ! And John took it well. To bad Mr Boehner's politics are not as funny. In fact, he is one sick puppy.

    May 17, 2009 05:26 pm at 5:26 pm |
  180. obama08

    Oompa..Loompa...Doopity...Doo...I've got another puzzle for you...

    May 17, 2009 05:28 pm at 5:28 pm |
  181. Marcus Tate

    Boehner, pronounced BONER.

    May 17, 2009 05:29 pm at 5:29 pm |
  182. mary

    That smile is an angry fake smile, how can I trust John Boehner. He frightens me.

    May 17, 2009 05:38 pm at 5:38 pm |
  183. P. Mathew

    I really don't care too much for Boehner...but I have to give him credit for brushing aside an obvious joke instead of the scrunching up his face, crossing his arms, and refusing the breathe (which lately has been what I expect from the GOP).

    May 17, 2009 05:39 pm at 5:39 pm |
  184. HEIDI

    Why would the Media comment on this now, The White House Corrospondence Dinner was last week. Is This CNN'S weak attempt to start BS?

    May 17, 2009 05:41 pm at 5:41 pm |
  185. Dee, NJ

    Tan hsir, green tie's, is this for the "Rainbow Vote" or th "Gray Vote"?

    May 17, 2009 05:42 pm at 5:42 pm |
  186. S M R

    The fake tan goes hand in hand with the fake promises that the GOP will do great things for our Country. PATHETIC

    May 17, 2009 05:48 pm at 5:48 pm |
  187. Frankie the Demo

    Mary Clark:
    You are obviously one of the good demos unlike too many others that make me cringe. They complain about the far right when the far left is just as bad. idiots all!

    May 17, 2009 05:50 pm at 5:50 pm |
  188. fdr

    everyone is a person of color - this is a fact and not a joke.

    May 17, 2009 05:51 pm at 5:51 pm |
  189. vic

    If a white politician made a comment about color how would that play...?

    We ALL lost the election.

    May 17, 2009 05:56 pm at 5:56 pm |
  190. nites

    seems way too harmless to warrant 158 responses

    May 17, 2009 05:57 pm at 5:57 pm |
  191. naygie

    His "tan" is not from beeing in the sun "cutting his grass" or fixing his "beds", more like the tanning bed at home. We people of color know!

    May 17, 2009 05:59 pm at 5:59 pm |
  192. steve

    Maybe the GOP would like a wah-burger and some french cries.

    May 17, 2009 06:02 pm at 6:02 pm |
  193. dolphin

    Obama needs to be careful of the things that he says...Let's not forget that he is also half white himself....

    May 17, 2009 06:02 pm at 6:02 pm |
  194. sngeorgia

    He's as "Fake" as his tan. He "threw" yard work and golf so you can assume his tan came from that. Tanning Bed, Humorless Jokester.

    May 17, 2009 06:02 pm at 6:02 pm |
  195. nites

    outlander need to get a dictionary.first he can;t even speel fascist correctly,and secondly, "liberal fascist" is real close to being an oxymoron.Maybe rush could help you with these issues

    May 17, 2009 06:05 pm at 6:05 pm |
  196. David in San Diego

    Anything to keep "The Undertaker" in the public eye, although Mitch McConnell is strong competition for "dourest looking" GOPher. Boehner=Palin=Cheney=Rove=Limbaugh=the "face" of the Republican't party only a Democrat could love.

    May 17, 2009 06:05 pm at 6:05 pm |
  197. mary

    Is John Boehner running for President. He will not win, John Boehner is too prejudiced. He has to like black people and the democrats. People have to like you and John Boehner does not have the charissma to be liked. He is too angry. I do not like him. People are not blind they can read between the lines.

    May 17, 2009 06:05 pm at 6:05 pm |
  198. dementedcrats

    If a Republican had made a joke like that CNN and it sycophants would be doing headlines about it for six months blasting his insensitivity.

    May 17, 2009 06:08 pm at 6:08 pm |
  199. Daniel

    Boo Hoo Republicans, we gotta have a sense of humor sometimes...

    May 17, 2009 06:11 pm at 6:11 pm |
  200. dementedcrats

    Barry Obama is a two pack a day cigarette smoker so I have heard. Must really ruin his 60% white complexion.

    May 17, 2009 06:11 pm at 6:11 pm |
  201. phoenix86

    Great responses from the Obamabots. No big deal, as Obama made the joke. I'm sure they would have responded the same way had someone like McCain, or Limbaugh made the same joke.

    The hypocracy of liberals is more evident everyday.

    May 17, 2009 06:12 pm at 6:12 pm |
  202. GOPHater

    Boner says he likes being outside? I didn't know they had tanning booths outside.

    May 17, 2009 06:13 pm at 6:13 pm |
  203. Fred

    Boehner's approval rating is 17 percent. Obama's is 65 percent. Nuff said...

    May 17, 2009 06:18 pm at 6:18 pm |
  204. Peter E

    For a party that repeatedly tried to scare people off from voting last year with their racist innuendos and spreading the myth that he was an arab, republicans sure get upset once Obama finally replies to their crap.

    May 17, 2009 06:21 pm at 6:21 pm |
  205. No more Republicans

    Like all Republicans John Boehner is living in a world of denial, natural tan my a–

    May 17, 2009 06:22 pm at 6:22 pm |
  206. Mel of Alexandria

    If one lies constantly there could come the time when telling the truth becomes impossible, be careful Mr. Boehner, eternity is watching.

    May 17, 2009 06:24 pm at 6:24 pm |
  207. Steve in Las Vegas,NV

    Maybe Boner uses Tan-In-A-Can...Aerosol fake tan, applied generously.

    May 17, 2009 06:24 pm at 6:24 pm |
  208. Cynthia in FL

    For those who think Obama was making a racist joke, you're really stretching the limits of credibility. Obama wasn't systematically oppressing Boehner's rights and denying him access to opportunities based on his skin color; he was tweaking him for overdoing it on the self-tanner. And isn't Boehner the guy who makes fun of reporters' hair? He'd better be able to take a joke.

    May 17, 2009 06:25 pm at 6:25 pm |
  209. Perusing-through

    Republican Congressman John Boehner: "I'd rather be heckled than ignored".

    I take that as a genuine golden nugget of wisdom. Thank you Congressman Boehner. Don't always agree with your political ideologies or strategies, , , but your quote is good enough to live by.

    May 17, 2009 06:25 pm at 6:25 pm |
  210. Chad SLC

    All you other white guys out there making self-righteous comments about this being some kind of racist joke need to get a clue. Obama wasn't making fun of Boehner for being white, it was all about the tan-in-the-can. It has nothing to do with the man's ethnicity, it's funny because he turned himself orange in the middle of winter.

    May 17, 2009 06:29 pm at 6:29 pm |
  211. jimmy-ohio

    if nothing else can the whck jobs on both sides please get their political smears right,,,,if you are on the far left you are a communist or a socialist(remember pallin's accusations during the campaign?).if you are on the far right you are a facist or a certain german party in the 20's40's i won't call any american that word

    May 17, 2009 06:30 pm at 6:30 pm |
  212. harold

    John Boenhner... is just trying to be pro life.. with his healthy sunshine color...NOW John be PRO LIFE national health care... and think about the 50 million USA people without health care insurance..... nor do they have a healthy looking swuave looking tan like yours... Lots sunshine in the house...John?

    May 17, 2009 06:30 pm at 6:30 pm |
  213. Perusing-through

    Obama is wrong when he says , , , “Although not a color that appears in the natural world”.

    It IS a color that appears in the natural world. It is called BUD LIGHT and it looks great on Congressman Boehner.

    May 17, 2009 06:31 pm at 6:31 pm |
  214. Vic

    Another example of the Republicans grabbing at ANYTHING

    May 17, 2009 06:33 pm at 6:33 pm |
  215. Dina

    All you "only white men can be ridiculed" spouters out there: Stop your babycrying, and grow up. It was a joke. Get over it. Move on. It was funny.

    May 17, 2009 06:33 pm at 6:33 pm |
  216. Vic

    Another example of how Republicans will do and say ANYTHING to change the subject from leftovers of the Bush/Cheney administration.
    I'm sure Speaker Pelosi is delighted that they're letting her rest, but how ridiculour can one get!

    May 17, 2009 06:34 pm at 6:34 pm |
  217. Mr. Britt

    Im really beginning to think this man has a problem with white people

    May 17, 2009 06:35 pm at 6:35 pm |
  218. harold

    Funny how suntan is so popular with some people trying to look better....... What about it boenhner.... is it wipe on tan or actual sunshine?.... vit D type?... Make you look kinda Pro Life national health care... John?.. Are You?

    May 17, 2009 06:35 pm at 6:35 pm |
  219. Betsy Nielsen

    In response to all your coverage on Obama and his address at Notre Dame. Please stop saying that he is "pro abortion." He is not! He is pro choice. There is a huge difference. When you say he is "pro abortion." you sound like Fox news.

    May 17, 2009 06:37 pm at 6:37 pm |
  220. F-Dog

    It's a self tanning joke – not a racial joke...

    May 17, 2009 06:38 pm at 6:38 pm |
  221. lucy

    i would love to know what cnn uses as criteria for comments that "await moderation" and don't get printed, if they are willing to print comments like the one from unnecessary1 TWICE when it should not have been printed once. Does anyone know?

    May 17, 2009 06:40 pm at 6:40 pm |
  222. Lynne

    Yeah...President Obama was wrong..Boehner is definitely a color...he's a pumpkin orange color.

    May 17, 2009 06:41 pm at 6:41 pm |
  223. dj

    Good comeback, John

    May 17, 2009 06:42 pm at 6:42 pm |
  224. NC Slim

    No platform. No party. No sense of humor. Hold on to that anger–that will solve the Great Republican Recession that has hurt the entire world.

    May 17, 2009 06:43 pm at 6:43 pm |
  225. truthsayer

    Does John King only interview Republicans.

    May 17, 2009 06:47 pm at 6:47 pm |
  226. Good one

    That was a good comeback. I enjoyed both – the President's joke and
    Boehner's response.

    May 17, 2009 06:47 pm at 6:47 pm |
  227. Jean

    Obama calls for common ground on abortion. Well, that is like nothing we have never heard of before. Did his teleprompter make him say it?

    May 17, 2009 06:58 pm at 6:58 pm |
  228. www.RandPaul2010.com

    Funny joke by Obama, but not sure how this is political news.

    May 17, 2009 06:58 pm at 6:58 pm |
  229. Leading Edge Boomer

    I note that CNN has changed its front-page headline for this article from
    "person of color" to "racial".

    What's that about?

    May 17, 2009 06:58 pm at 6:58 pm |
  230. ceepee

    This type of exchange could go a long way in helping to eliminate the racial discomfort to which Eric Holder refers. A good lighthearted job on both guys' parts!

    May 17, 2009 06:59 pm at 6:59 pm |
  231. Lauren

    The press is stirring up stuff again.

    May 17, 2009 07:02 pm at 7:02 pm |
  232. Sarah K.

    Hey, Mary. I am so glad you can read minds and know just what Boehner is thinking. Fake smile, I don't think so. Why is it so difficult to give the guy credit for being a good sport on this issue. You Dems have become such haters. I can't figure out why. Can you read my mind right now????

    May 17, 2009 07:03 pm at 7:03 pm |
  233. Mysterious

    Can't we all just get along?

    May 17, 2009 07:04 pm at 7:04 pm |
  234. pt

    Let's put this in perspective. If government workers cannot say "white board" or "black board" because it could possible be deemed racist, why should their leaders be allowed to make skin color statements? (Racism charges within the government really did include the color of boards.)

    May 17, 2009 07:05 pm at 7:05 pm |
  235. Karen - Missouri

    Ok...here's a non-story. Why should anyone take offense...everyone jokes about Boehner's "tan". It was all in good fun and for once Boehner sounds like a "normal" person.

    May 17, 2009 07:06 pm at 7:06 pm |
  236. Sue

    If Boehner thinks that that is natural than maybe it explains his whole political philosophy. DENIAL.

    May 17, 2009 07:06 pm at 7:06 pm |
  237. Neil

    I must strenuously object to the CNN headline depicting the Boehner comments as "racial" in nature. There was nothing racial about it. It was a joke. The same as Boehner has heard a hundred times. If your looking for an insult to perpetrate on someone try "liar." It's a no brainer. Just look in the mirror first.

    May 17, 2009 07:08 pm at 7:08 pm |
  238. LAW

    If you want to understand liberals, read their comments.

    A few are reasonable, too few.

    I feel like I have to take a shower to clean off the filth after I make the mistake and again visit sites like this.

    May 17, 2009 07:08 pm at 7:08 pm |
  239. Royster

    He'd rather be heckler than ignored? Well that is certainly what he is doing to OBAMA! So I guess he must LIVE OBAMA since he is heckling him so much! Perhaps it is a case of tan-envy.

    May 17, 2009 07:11 pm at 7:11 pm |
  240. w.l. jones

    Do not tell you know who a tan look good he will run to the desert and fall in a Coyote hole an call "RL" and :BOY" two tan the Repub will be in real trouble.

    May 17, 2009 07:11 pm at 7:11 pm |
  241. susie

    If a white person had said that instead of Obama they would be in a lot of trouble.

    May 17, 2009 07:12 pm at 7:12 pm |
  242. Steve in Las Vegas,NV

    Does he own a tanning salon on the side, or just have a tanning bed to keep his golden tan in shape?

    May 17, 2009 07:12 pm at 7:12 pm |
  243. Jerry

    I think the joke was funny and I also think the John Boehner took it very well!

    May 17, 2009 07:13 pm at 7:13 pm |
  244. Chris

    1. This was not a "race" joke. Just because a joke mentions skin color does not automatically make it a race joke. What's wrong with joking about a fake tan?

    2. Dear CNN–Just because someone appears on youyr Sunday morning show does not mean they are the main newsmaker for that day. I know news channels have to promote themselves, but don't mix it in with the "news."

    May 17, 2009 07:14 pm at 7:14 pm |
  245. unknown

    White is a 'color' too, last time I checked; but I prefer the term Caucasian.

    May 17, 2009 07:16 pm at 7:16 pm |
  246. I used to like CNN but not anymore!

    Gee CNN, Do you think you could get 1 more story concerning Boehner on this ticker today? You people need to get a life! Seriously!

    May 17, 2009 07:17 pm at 7:17 pm |
  247. Aspen Professor

    "I’d rather be heckled than ignored,” Boehner, the Ohio Republican told CNN’s John King." Lets see if I remember it correctily, 80% of Americans are now ignoring the NO Party and the politicians without an apparent creative idea in their thick skulls.

    The only "friends" they have are the right-wing extremists who are leading the GOP into oblivion. It is sad to watch and listen to.

    May 17, 2009 07:23 pm at 7:23 pm |
  248. torrington dem

    This afternoon it was "republican reacts to ribbing". Now it's "republican reacts to racial joke". Sounds like the night editor at CNN has an agenda.

    May 17, 2009 07:26 pm at 7:26 pm |
  249. Charles Evans

    I'll make a deal with Rep. Boehner about global warming: I'll stop farting if he stops breathing.

    May 17, 2009 07:28 pm at 7:28 pm |
  250. Lynn West Bloomfield, Michigan

    So, what do you call that color?

    May 17, 2009 07:29 pm at 7:29 pm |
  251. Lori

    No, I think most Americans prefer Boehner be ignored.

    May 17, 2009 07:31 pm at 7:31 pm |
  252. MaryanneAZ

    It could be that Boehner suffers from Addison's disease or some other condition that results in a permanent tan not explained by outdoor activity. Since the event was a roast of sorts, the jokes should all be taken with good humor.

    May 17, 2009 07:32 pm at 7:32 pm |
  253. Mack

    Boehner looks like someone from the 80's–stuck in a time warp. I don't like to listen to him cause he can't speak well.

    May 17, 2009 07:35 pm at 7:35 pm |
  254. Cheryl F

    It's a fake tan, just like everything else about him.

    May 17, 2009 07:40 pm at 7:40 pm |
  255. texasgreenacres

    well when I was just about ready to throw in the towel on you .you make me change my mind. you do have a sense of humor. I really liked your response better to be heckled than ignored.

    May 17, 2009 07:40 pm at 7:40 pm |
  256. Sean

    For all those who say that the GOP is class-less, take note of Boehner's response. that was pure class. Everyone who cracked jokes at his name should learn from him too.

    May 17, 2009 07:44 pm at 7:44 pm |
  257. Dave

    Come on CNN, you can't properly label this a "racial joke." That's just giving repuglicans fuel for the fire.

    May 17, 2009 07:46 pm at 7:46 pm |
  258. Someone With Sense

    These comments are hilarious!!!! People see Michael Jackson and says he looks white...is that racist? No, not if it's true. Is it not true that this man has color to his skin complexion? SMH.... every little thing huh!

    May 17, 2009 07:49 pm at 7:49 pm |
  259. George Carlins got to be laughing

    Whats the matter John,your diaper on too tight?

    May 17, 2009 07:49 pm at 7:49 pm |
  260. mayday

    we obviously have the most arrogant president in the history of the United States!

    May 17, 2009 07:57 pm at 7:57 pm |
  261. HoldenLitgo

    racial joke? I heard it, saw it, nothing "racial" about it. what's with the press starting fires like this? shame on you, CNN.

    May 17, 2009 07:59 pm at 7:59 pm |
  262. Arack Bobama

    Obama is a person of Tasteless and Insensitive Humor. He should stick to telling Catholics how much they need to be "understanding" in the abortion debate – i.e. accept the Obama baby killing doctrine and keep their mouths shut.

    May 17, 2009 07:59 pm at 7:59 pm |
  263. vinnie

    boehner could have been a jerk and derided obama for the joke. glad to see he took it in the spirit in which it was delivered. class act...i'm normally not a fan of the guy, but i'm giving the guy credit.

    May 17, 2009 08:00 pm at 8:00 pm |
  264. republicguard

    So if Boehner had said Mulatto wasn't a natural color found in nature Obama would have been amused?

    May 17, 2009 08:01 pm at 8:01 pm |
  265. Sherry

    So true......so many of you out there that are prejudiced , yet try to get real dark in the summer.

    May 17, 2009 08:01 pm at 8:01 pm |
  266. Terry

    I voted for Obama because he is white, myself. It is about time for white men to be able to relax a little about the concept of race.

    May 17, 2009 08:02 pm at 8:02 pm |
  267. Dan

    Mary.....
    Your post caught my eye. A devout Catholic...pro-choice. That is inconsistent...you can be pro-choice....but you can't call yourself a "devout" Catholic. You may consider these things "labels" but members of the Church consider it an article of faith. Instead of calling yourself devout why don't you use the term "cafeteria" Catholic that would be more appropriate.

    May 17, 2009 08:04 pm at 8:04 pm |
  268. jsb

    That particular shade would be Sunset over Venus # 2, or cheap tanning bed on the high setting for 20 minutes too long.

    May 17, 2009 08:05 pm at 8:05 pm |
  269. PJ

    Boehmer is "Oil Can Harry". The man has no integrity, has never known integrity and will never know integrity. He is a perfect republican bonehead. He even looks fake with his fake tan and oily look. A true snake in the grass. So Obama, a half white/black president makes a joke...Big deal. Grow up. Same like Gingrich, sour angry, white old men.

    May 17, 2009 08:11 pm at 8:11 pm |
  270. Nat Turner

    LOL! This clown must sleep in a tanning bed! Only proves he knows that black is indeed beautiful.

    May 17, 2009 08:16 pm at 8:16 pm |
  271. barking republican ankle biters

    His poor mother must of had second thoughts after this clowns birth.

    May 17, 2009 08:18 pm at 8:18 pm |
  272. Jessie

    Boehner should chill. My god these politicians are nothing but a bunch of babies. If they knew how to do their jobs, we wouldn't be in the predicament were in. And I am blaming both parties.

    May 17, 2009 08:19 pm at 8:19 pm |
  273. Jeff

    Boehner is going to end up looking like heavily weathered luggage... or chocked full of skin cancer, not very smart...

    May 17, 2009 08:19 pm at 8:19 pm |
  274. Thin skinned Repubs

    What was Obama's response to Prime Minister Berlosconi's two jokes about the President being "well-tanned"?

    Nothing.

    Boehner and the rest of the "everything is reverse racism unless we tell a politically incorrect joke then it's ok" crew should take a lesson from our President, Mr. Obama.

    May 17, 2009 08:19 pm at 8:19 pm |
  275. Malbert

    Glad to hear a classy response.
    Nice touch Boehner!

    May 17, 2009 08:20 pm at 8:20 pm |
  276. tmike

    DaBird (how ghetto is that name!) – if you can't tell the difference between "half-breed" as an insult and "is a color that doesn't occur in nature" as one, then clearly you are an idiot (and from the looks of several comments posted here, you have company).

    May 17, 2009 08:22 pm at 8:22 pm |
  277. MikeH

    Apparently CNN needs to foment hatred and anger on this 1-week-old story, hence the `racist comment' verbage in the Ticker headline.

    Attention CNN Senior Editor in Charge: Fire the dweeb who composed this, or risk slipping lower down into the pandering propaganda cesspool currently inhabited by FOX Spews.

    May 17, 2009 08:22 pm at 8:22 pm |
  278. Thin skinned Repubs

    If you are ORANGE, people are going to notice.

    May 17, 2009 08:22 pm at 8:22 pm |
  279. Brent Quebman

    I live in Ohio, when does the sun shine enough for him to get a tan?

    May 17, 2009 08:24 pm at 8:24 pm |
  280. hongli

    John Boehner has BAD BREATH.

    May 17, 2009 08:28 pm at 8:28 pm |
  281. Vance

    I don't see how this is offensive, unless saying someone looks black is offensive. and Being black myself, i don't see why anyone would take offense.

    May 17, 2009 08:29 pm at 8:29 pm |
  282. John

    John Bohner is just another spoiled rich kid with a great tan because he has never had to work a day in his life.

    May 17, 2009 08:29 pm at 8:29 pm |
  283. Gus

    It's a joke. Get over yourselves. The only way to break down the barrier of racism is to joke about it. People are too sensitive. Laugh, it's funny.

    May 17, 2009 08:34 pm at 8:34 pm |
  284. larry

    Why is CNN always trying to start some she it.

    May 17, 2009 08:34 pm at 8:34 pm |
  285. jon

    I see. The president makes a racial joke andit is funny adn time to attack the butt of the joke, not address the leader of the free world practicing double standards. But isn't that normal behavior for any black person.

    May 17, 2009 08:38 pm at 8:38 pm |
  286. Denna

    Wow, and I thought that orange tan was real. But seriously, it was a good joke, delivered neatly and John was gracious and he finally came across as being human.

    May 17, 2009 08:39 pm at 8:39 pm |
  287. Tiff of lithia springs

    Slow news day I guess...

    May 17, 2009 08:40 pm at 8:40 pm |
  288. Darrie

    It seems the Repubs try their darn best to make something dark and evil out of every little peep that comes out of the mouths of Dems. I am pretty sure that America has had a bait of it too. Obama was kindly complimenting the man's tan. I'm sure Bohner would not work so hard to stay THAT tan if he didn't want the WORLD to notice and so apparently much of the world has noticed. If only a man could be judged by his tan...well Obama would still be the better man, eh?-LOL!

    May 17, 2009 08:44 pm at 8:44 pm |
  289. Brendan H., San Antonio, TX

    After the racist bumpers stickers with RNC logos on them appeared here in Texas during the presidential campaign, no GOP has the right to even broach/cross the line on racism, in part or in whole!

    May 17, 2009 08:46 pm at 8:46 pm |
  290. Toole

    Someone please shut these nit-witted Republicans up. Enough already!

    May 17, 2009 08:47 pm at 8:47 pm |
  291. Harvey for Obama

    Come on people. Learn how to take a joke. I have never seen so many thin skinned people. Get a life.

    May 17, 2009 08:49 pm at 8:49 pm |
  292. MJHS1967

    I agree with you Gambi...a refreshing "change" indeed!!! :)

    May 17, 2009 08:52 pm at 8:52 pm |
  293. To: Mary Clark

    Can we all stop with the very denigrating remarks?

    no, no, no

    I have put up with this garbage from the GOP since the 80's

    The GOP dishes out and the Democrats are expected to make nice

    screw them

    May 17, 2009 08:55 pm at 8:55 pm |
  294. Susan

    God, if only the media would ignore you...you're on more shows than Newt, and that's tough to manage when you're supposed to be working for the people of Ohio.

    May 17, 2009 08:56 pm at 8:56 pm |
  295. Kathy

    Good joke. Obama was accused of playing the race card when he made the remark that he doesn't look like the presidents on the dollar bills. I thought that was hilarious. Well, he doesn't look like any other president. His name is unusual – even Mrs. Obama said that when she first met him. He has black skin; that's plainly easy to see. So why do some people get so uptight when he alludes to his race. Puzzles me. It's great that he's able to make jokes about skin color, eases tensions and could lead to more relaxation between the races.

    May 17, 2009 08:56 pm at 8:56 pm |
  296. anita

    O-slam-ya is so funny.
    Funny like a forest fire in a whirlwind and about as discplined – in presidential responsibilities

    May 17, 2009 08:58 pm at 8:58 pm |
  297. Extreme tan mom

    Good joke and good response! One of my sons loves those "permanent" tan looks. At some point, he may be dealing with skin cancer because of his nonsense, but he's an adult, and it's HIS nonsense. And, he IS a person of color. No, not in the natural realm, but in the kind that walks out of tanning salons all across the nation!

    May 17, 2009 09:05 pm at 9:05 pm |
  298. mia

    JOKE. Need a definition??? Probably after dubwa and company.

    He is honest in his humor.

    ARE YOU????

    May 17, 2009 09:08 pm at 9:08 pm |
  299. Ryan

    People... calm down.

    John Boner is ORANGE.

    Anyone with eyeballs can see that it's true.

    May 17, 2009 09:09 pm at 9:09 pm |
  300. Squigman

    Boehner, is apparently one of two things. He's either become the darling of CNN, or he's a camera hog. Which is it ?

    May 17, 2009 09:09 pm at 9:09 pm |
  301. JOE

    This is all Boner does is complain and whine.....Cant the Repubs shut him up????

    May 17, 2009 09:10 pm at 9:10 pm |
  302. JOE

    This guy and his phony smile just gags me every time I see him...He is exactly what is wrong with the Republican Party....He thinks he is so important he would not make a pimple on Obam's butt.

    May 17, 2009 09:15 pm at 9:15 pm |