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.
From CNN Politics
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What a great response. Take note America.
So what ! Still the party of No. No one cares, The Repubs have nothing new;always The SOS
What's the matter kid? Don't ya like liberals? Aren't they funny? Don't they make ya freakin' laugh?
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.
Tan in a Tube Boehner actually has a sense of humor?
The press is looking for something to ignite race topic, which every is scared to talk abt but rather report.
Good response. I'm glad the Senator can take a joke.
Obama 2012
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.
that is the only thing you can do is make fun of ANYONE in the gop. they are all a joke.
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.
Yeah, Boehner enjoys being outdoors....once he's finished his daily tanning booth regimen.
That 'tan' is about as authentic as his words.
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.
Keep using the tanning booth, Mr. Boehner. Melanoma can't be that far away
he doesn't use water.....the beener washes with coke, hehehehe
obama shouldn't joke about anyone; he's the biggest joke to occupy the white house.
I'm wondering if the President has a problem with white folks?
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...
while i despise bone, that was a good comeback for him
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.
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?
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
Amazing Boehner didn't condem Obama for making a racist comment:)
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.
You have a tanning booth outside, do ya?
Most the time he looks a gross orange. Does anybody ever tell him?
Nice to see that some in Washington still have a sense of humor. Lately it has appeared to be very tense.
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?
Holy smokes, the guy does have a sense of humor. Cincinnati Chilie for everyone.
The funny thing is that Boehner is actually darker than obama some of the time.
As an Obama supporter, I applaud you Mr Boehner, nice response and you are not apologetic for your tan.
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.
well there's a perspective I would have never thought of. refreshing. we all need to lighten up. uhhh no pun Intended!
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.
Perhaps he is getting that color as it "rubs" off Charlie Crist!
Good to see they can play nice.
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.
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.
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?
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...
Let's hear more jokes about the skin color of people!!
Obama is the funniest white guy I've seen in a long time.
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...
kcl May 17th, 2009 12:41 pm ET
What a great response. Take note America.
What? You think Boehner's the next president? Really!
Sure hope his kidneys dont fail!!! Nothing common respect and decency I say.
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!
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.
That is what is missing. Good natured humor. Please sir may I have some more?
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.
"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.
Be careful Bone Head. You may get skin cancer if you stay in the sun too much.
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?????
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
Good sport. Now that's refreshing.
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.
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.
Great reply to a good-natured ribbing. Good job, John!
This is nice, he is laughing it off. Limbaugh will kill him
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.....
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???
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.
Ha... Just about the only exchange between a senior republican and Obama that hasn't been ugly...
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...
Imagine the national rioting if that comment were reversed! What a pathetic one way street this liberal crap is.
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?
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
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.
I'm surprised. He didn't find a way to spin this into something negative that affects national security, the economy, or the admininstration.
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.
Now if we could keep all politics light-hearted and civil, just think how much better of country we would be.
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.
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.
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.
Glad to see a little lighthearted banter in these stressful times. Enjoyed Mr. B.'s take on all subjects he spoke on this AM.
Now, THIS is how you respond to a joke! Thank you!
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.
Looks to me like he would also rather be black than white.
I'm surprised the repubs didn't call for an investigation.
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.
I would take Boehner over Pelosi or Reid or Barney Frank in a heartbeat. Congressman Boehner is a class act, and always has been.
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.”
Well done, Boehner, a classy response to a harmless joke.
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"?
Who doesn't find Boehner ridiculously funny? This man has ZERO relevancy. ZERO.
Yeah right you moran, lets get Palin in on this.
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.
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.
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)
Nice. Good to see John has a sense of humor. He's usually wound just a little. too. tight.
If only he'd stay outside, permanently, the country would be better off without him.
I hope he defeats Obama for prez in 2012.
"yeah I enjoy being outside"....yeah, as long as "outside" = "tanning bed"
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.
This story omitted the real punchline....after a masterfully timed pause, Obama said, "Hey, John....wassup?"
Boehner, considered yourself ignored. Please go away and do no more harm.
I guess Boehner uses "Man Tan' a product from the 60's What a moroon...
I like it "I'd rather be heckled than ignored", what a good take on things.
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.
Surprised but impressed to see how light Boehner took the "person of color" joke. Seriously speaking, how come he got the tan?
I LOLed.
What else was he gonna say? I'm glad he responded with grace.
At first I didn't get the joke, but then, when I saw Rep. Boehner I got it . . .
Very funny!
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.
How funny. I seriously thought the President was referring to Senator Boehner's "color" of ties.
I'll give him a golf clap on the response. Good to see some people can take a joke–at least occasionally.
It is refreshing that both parties can joke about each other without going psycho about it.
This is news?
I think some playful chiding is a very positive thing. Congrats to both of them for the give and take.
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.
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!!
At least Boehner is honest and admits his vanity.
President Obama,who's your daddy ??
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.
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.
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.
Slow news day!
Bohner actually took the joke with a smile? and that is a first. Thank you President Obama – you he can move a mountain.
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?
Oh that was so funny when Obama said that. I was doubled over. What is up with that spray tan John?
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.
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.
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.
God is Pink!
Great response!! Way to beat him at his own game!
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.
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
"I enjoy being outside"
LOL, is that seriously his answer? They guy has no idea he looks like Ernie from Sesame St?
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!
A horrible leader for our party. We are in dire need of new leadership!!!
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.
Now I would have asked him if he had a bulldog with that face he would certainly be mistaken for one.....not kidding boehner.
Ohhhhhh............SLAMMER! John Boehner is a complete idiot who has spouted off about everybody and everything. President Obama just hammered him home! Nice!
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.
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.
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.
John Boehner and barck Obama just exude dignity and class. Kudos to both of them!
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.
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.
You don't get that color of skin from any sun I have been under!!!
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?
I think Boehner is just glad no one is calling him "Boner".
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!
Woody finally acted human.
He enjoys being outside? Are there tanning salons outside?
Enjoy being outside? Please. Most lifeguards don't even get that tanned. That's definitely a spray-on.
ich! YuuuK!
Do you walk around the golf course spraying on Bronzer?
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.
Outside my foot.... I know a tanning bed tan when I see one.... And he has one.
I may not agree with you or your party, Mr. Boehner, but it was refreshing to see this side of you.
At least Mr. Perpetually Tan can take a joke!
If the GOP has any chance for survivial, they need to over-haul the nut jobs they have now. Period.
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.
Obama missed his calling ... he should have been a comedian ... oh wait ... he is !!
Oooops .. I forgot to add ... he is the joke.
Boehner couldn't help but be amused...the President was funny.
Natural tan? Now that was the biggest joke I've heard in a very long time.
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.
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.
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.
'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.
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.
@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.
Hey....What's with the title of this story being called Obama's Racial joke?
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!!!
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!
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!
The GOP congressional leader frequents tanning salons? That's funny!! Diversity is always good. Nice to have an adonistic congressman
.....and the conservatives have absolutely NO sense of humor.
When is it nice to be petty and snide? I think the joke was below the President and Bohner was being gracious.
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
Was the joke racial??? Nice change of headline, CNN (spin things up a little).....
I guess my question would be is it such a bad thing to be an African American?
I understand you can only be a racist if you're in power.
Ellis, your comment makes no sense except to label you an angry white man.
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.
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.
Could CNN possibly give John Boehner any more coverage today? Enough already!
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.
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.
When is the Media going to stop digging in week old manure?
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.
Oompa..Loompa...Doopity...Doo...I've got another puzzle for you...
Boehner, pronounced BONER.
That smile is an angry fake smile, how can I trust John Boehner. He frightens me.
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).
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?
Tan hsir, green tie's, is this for the "Rainbow Vote" or th "Gray Vote"?
The fake tan goes hand in hand with the fake promises that the GOP will do great things for our Country. PATHETIC
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!
everyone is a person of color - this is a fact and not a joke.
If a white politician made a comment about color how would that play...?
We ALL lost the election.
seems way too harmless to warrant 158 responses
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!
Maybe the GOP would like a wah-burger and some french cries.
Obama needs to be careful of the things that he says...Let's not forget that he is also half white himself....
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.
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
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.
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.
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.
Boo Hoo Republicans, we gotta have a sense of humor sometimes...
Barry Obama is a two pack a day cigarette smoker so I have heard. Must really ruin his 60% white complexion.
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.
Boner says he likes being outside? I didn't know they had tanning booths outside.
Boehner's approval rating is 17 percent. Obama's is 65 percent. Nuff said...
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.
Like all Republicans John Boehner is living in a world of denial, natural tan my a–
If one lies constantly there could come the time when telling the truth becomes impossible, be careful Mr. Boehner, eternity is watching.
Maybe Boner uses Tan-In-A-Can...Aerosol fake tan, applied generously.
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.
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.
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.
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
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?
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.
Another example of the Republicans grabbing at ANYTHING
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.
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!
Im really beginning to think this man has a problem with white people
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?
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.
It's a self tanning joke – not a racial joke...
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?
Yeah...President Obama was wrong..Boehner is definitely a color...he's a pumpkin orange color.
Good comeback, John
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.
Does John King only interview Republicans.
That was a good comeback. I enjoyed both – the President's joke and
Boehner's response.
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?
Funny joke by Obama, but not sure how this is political news.
I note that CNN has changed its front-page headline for this article from
"person of color" to "racial".
What's that about?
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!
The press is stirring up stuff again.
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????
Can't we all just get along?
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.)
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.
If Boehner thinks that that is natural than maybe it explains his whole political philosophy. DENIAL.
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.
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.
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.
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.
If a white person had said that instead of Obama they would be in a lot of trouble.
Does he own a tanning salon on the side, or just have a tanning bed to keep his golden tan in shape?
I think the joke was funny and I also think the John Boehner took it very well!
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."
White is a 'color' too, last time I checked; but I prefer the term Caucasian.
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!
"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.
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.
I'll make a deal with Rep. Boehner about global warming: I'll stop farting if he stops breathing.
So, what do you call that color?
No, I think most Americans prefer Boehner be ignored.
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.
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.
It's a fake tan, just like everything else about him.
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.
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.
Come on CNN, you can't properly label this a "racial joke." That's just giving repuglicans fuel for the fire.
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!
Whats the matter John,your diaper on too tight?
we obviously have the most arrogant president in the history of the United States!
racial joke? I heard it, saw it, nothing "racial" about it. what's with the press starting fires like this? shame on you, CNN.
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.
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.
So if Boehner had said Mulatto wasn't a natural color found in nature Obama would have been amused?
So true......so many of you out there that are prejudiced , yet try to get real dark in the summer.
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.
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.
That particular shade would be Sunset over Venus # 2, or cheap tanning bed on the high setting for 20 minutes too long.
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.
LOL! This clown must sleep in a tanning bed! Only proves he knows that black is indeed beautiful.
His poor mother must of had second thoughts after this clowns birth.
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.
Boehner is going to end up looking like heavily weathered luggage... or chocked full of skin cancer, not very smart...
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.
Glad to hear a classy response.
Nice touch Boehner!
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).
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.
If you are ORANGE, people are going to notice.
I live in Ohio, when does the sun shine enough for him to get a tan?
John Boehner has BAD BREATH.
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.
John Bohner is just another spoiled rich kid with a great tan because he has never had to work a day in his life.
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.
Why is CNN always trying to start some she it.
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.
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.
Slow news day I guess...
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!
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!
Someone please shut these nit-witted Republicans up. Enough already!
Come on people. Learn how to take a joke. I have never seen so many thin skinned people. Get a life.
I agree with you Gambi...a refreshing "change" indeed!!!
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
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.
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.
O-slam-ya is so funny.
Funny like a forest fire in a whirlwind and about as discplined – in presidential responsibilities
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!
JOKE. Need a definition??? Probably after dubwa and company.
He is honest in his humor.
ARE YOU????
People... calm down.
John Boner is ORANGE.
Anyone with eyeballs can see that it's true.
Boehner, is apparently one of two things. He's either become the darling of CNN, or he's a camera hog. Which is it ?
This is all Boner does is complain and whine.....Cant the Repubs shut him up????
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.