May 28, 2009
Posted: May 28th, 2009 10:22 PM ET

From
Cornyn on Thursday said statements calling Sotomayor a racist are 'terrible.'
Cornyn on Thursday said statements calling Sotomayor a racist are 'terrible.'

(CNN) - A top Senate Republican is taking aim at recent statements from conservative commentators Rush Limbaugh and Newt Gingrich suggesting Supreme Court nominee Sonia Sotomayor is a "racist."

"I think it's terrible," Sen. John Cornyn, the chairman of the National Republican Senatorial Committee, told NPR's "All Things Considered" Thursday. "This is not the kind of tone any of us want to set when it comes to performing our constitutional responsibilities of advise and consent.”

Both the popular radio host and former GOP House Speaker have suggested Obama's pick for the high court is  a racist while referencing a 2001 speech at Berkeley during which Sotomayor said, "I would hope that a wise Latina woman, with the richness of her experiences, would more often than not reach a better conclusion than a white male who hasn't lived that life."

Related: In her own words: Sotomayor's 'Latina' speech

"Imagine a judicial nominee said 'my experience as a white man makes me better than a latina woman.' new racism is no better than old racism," Gingrich wrote on Twitter Wednesday.

"Here you have a racist – you might want to soften that, and you might want to say a reverse racist," Limbaugh said the day before on his radio program.

Senate Republicans meanwhile have largely withheld judgment on Sotomayor, though many - including Cornyn - have taken issue with some of her past statements and rulings.

"We are all a product of our upbringing and who we are and I think it’s a fact people do have different backgrounds, but I don't think those background ought to determine what the law is," Cornyn said to NPR of Sotomayor's Berkeley comments.

The NRSC chief also brushed off the Limbaugh and Gingrich statements while noting neither man holds an elected office.

"Neither one of these men are elected Republican officials. I just don't think it’s appropriate. I certainly don't endorse it. I think it’s wrong," he said.

Filed under: Extra • John Cornyn • Newt Gingrich • Rush Limbaugh • Sonia Sotomayor • Supreme Court


Good To See One Republican Step Up To Condemn Attacks Against « The Gholston Post   May 29th, 2009 9:53 am ET

[...] http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2009/05/28/top-republican-calls-limbaugh-gingrich-comments-terr... Comments [...]

Mike in Memphis   May 29th, 2009 3:30 am ET

Right or wrong, "reverse racism" or not, let's all hope that Sotomayor is more cautious with her wording once she's serving on the Supreme Court.

greg   May 29th, 2009 3:26 am ET

Well, he might be just playing his part to be the good guy. Limbaugh and Gingrich doing their part. You Government playing with America's mind. Stir up the pot and get people going in a certain direction. Most of these top Leaders belong to the Bohemian Grove cult worshipping the Devil. This is OUR Government?

Walter   May 29th, 2009 3:21 am ET

AGAIN, CNN quotes Judge Sotomayor out of context!!

She was speaking about the kind of presumptions that all judges bring to cases and must be careful to critically examine.

Please, CNN, stop kowtowing to the radical right and cover ALL the story.

ranchhand   May 29th, 2009 3:10 am ET

Newt is right about how certin racist remarks are tolerated from some sectors and jumped on with both feet other sectors. Its a double standard. No one deserves a free pass in todays world.

Kathy   May 29th, 2009 3:09 am ET

At least there is one sensible and elequent Republican making a comment.
The others should really be ashamed of their comments and behaviors.

marcus   May 29th, 2009 3:07 am ET

I agree with Mr. Cornyn, Im a democrat, what i dont understand is, if the demotratic party, or any democratic elected offical doesnt respond to any statments by Gingrich, or Limbaugh, it makes them not important anymore, and defitently takes both of them out of the light.

Professor   May 29th, 2009 3:02 am ET

I do not know whether Sotomayor is a racist or not. However, I am very concerned for her soul and whether she makes Godly decisions or not from the bench. I pray for her salvation and for the salvation of President Obama. Our leaders need guidance from the Holy Bible, the Inerrant Word of GOD.

"Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct thy paths." – Proverbs 3:5 and 6.

Jeff   May 29th, 2009 2:42 am ET

It is absolutely amazing that limbaugh and gingrich still don't understand that this kind of politics is why their party is on the verge of extinction.

jw   May 29th, 2009 2:32 am ET

The problem with this country is Americans are growing dumber. People jump on the bandwagon to slash Rush, but he is right on nearly all the time. When I challenge my lib associates to tell me something he's said that is wrong, they're at a loss. Sotomayor's comments was racist, which makes her a.....you guessed it.

Aenigma   May 29th, 2009 2:28 am ET

those that cling to her(Ms Sotomayor's) quotes need to read the entire quote, not just what Limbaugh, and Gingrich are spewing

Larry - Hazleton, pa   May 29th, 2009 2:17 am ET

Is there really some humanity in the republican party – I will have to wait and see – all others who have challenged the fat drug user have come forth later and kissed his butt. It will be very refreshing if he holds up in the coming days.

Milk   May 29th, 2009 2:14 am ET

"If there's anyone out there, who still doughts that" Rush Limbaugh, though now the defacto leader of the Republican Party, and America's version of Alqaida,"who still questions" what direction he wants to take the GOP, "today is your answer."

Robin Bray puts better than I can: May 28th, 2009 10:46 pm ET

"I guess Rush and Newt have never heard the phrase "Walk a mile in my shoes". That is what was being said and these two are not smart enough to figure this out. IIt is ironic that these two white men prove her correct in her statement." Tons of thanks to S. Cornyn for standing up; however, I'll only consider him his ownman if he doesn't race and through himself down at RUSH's feet and beg for his life.

Keith Dray   May 29th, 2009 2:11 am ET

Rush and Newt. What do they do for the country??????????
So why do people listen to their opinions?
They are like A#&* Ho%&* everyone has one.

lasvegasrose   May 29th, 2009 2:09 am ET

I think the REAL reason Cornyn is speaking out is not so noble; remember that he is from Texas and 1/3 of his State is Spanish. He does want to get re-elected after all.

roscoeB   May 29th, 2009 2:08 am ET

As a Democrat, I welcome the vitriol being spewed by the Far Right, including Limbaugh, Gingrich, Ann Coulter, Glenn Beck and others. The GOP is headed down the same road as GM: extinction. The braying sheep who enjoy their venom will find themselves with few ( in the Northeast, no) elected officials. Rush has become a parody of a conservative. Saturday Night Live could not satirize him and do him justice. He has become a waddling embarassment to the party, a military supporter who avoided the draft , a law and order advocate who weaseled out of illegal drug use charges, and a hypocrite who claims the moral high ground while cheating on his wives and never letting facts stand in the way of his bizarre opinions.

Medford   May 29th, 2009 2:07 am ET

I applaud Cornyn for standing up for his beliefs and not being an automaton. I vote for thinking leaders, not sheep. I read the whole speech and felt her statement was fitting in context. I am disappointed in Gingrich, it seemed like he was becoming rational recently. Of course these are the kind of remarks expected from that buffoon Limbaugh and I expect no less from him. If he continues his foolishness and the party will be torn apart.

Brian   May 29th, 2009 2:07 am ET

I used to be a Republican. The kind of crap that Limbaugh and Gingrich continue to pull & blacken the party's eyes with is exactly why I wanted nothing further to do with them.

It's nice to know there are still some like Cornyn, Tom Ridge, Colin Powell and Charlie Crist around who have actual limits in how far off the deep end they'll allow the bs partisan attacks to go...

KYJurisDoctor   May 29th, 2009 2:07 am ET

Conservative commentators should NOT be viewed as speaking for the Republica Party, and the Senator is right, of course. OsiSpeaks[dot]com

Victory   May 29th, 2009 2:05 am ET

Good for Cornyn, come on he's only doing this because the hispanic vote is huge in Texas.

Independent   May 29th, 2009 2:04 am ET

It is an outrage how NASTY politics have become.......HOW SAD!!!!

mike,texas   May 29th, 2009 2:03 am ET

Its the Rush Newt show.Now thats a party where old white guys get a ?

Get a grip   May 29th, 2009 2:02 am ET

Just another couple of icebergs that are going to sink the Titanic known as the Republican Party.

mcr   May 29th, 2009 2:00 am ET

Gingrich and Limbaugh can crawl back under their rocks now because most of America doesnt really care what they think or say.They are pathetic, and they should just stay under the rock for a long time to come.

Richard   May 29th, 2009 1:58 am ET

Will CNN please finally run the full quote surrounding Sotomayor's provocative "Latina woman" line. The real context of what she said actually counters the convenient racist charge being disingenuously levied against her.

WakeMeUpNow   May 29th, 2009 1:57 am ET

Cornyn.... I just hope you were sincere about what you said. If you come back asking Rush for forgiveness, I will never trust your words again.

Alex   May 29th, 2009 1:54 am ET

Well, thank god somebody in the GOP has brain.

D. Tree   May 29th, 2009 1:53 am ET

Newt has lost his mind. Its seems Rush never had one.

What's next, are these 2 unelected and self-appointed spokesmen going to claim Cornyn is not a "real republican?"

Newt and Rush are acting like the trolls of the airwaves!

Kent   May 29th, 2009 1:50 am ET

Assuming that Supreme Court justices are fairly evaluated and considered to be qualified for the position, then diversity in the Supreme Court should, over time, reflect, at least approximately, the diversity in the population.

katygirl from tx   May 29th, 2009 1:49 am ET

I am pleased that the great senator from Texas finally sounds rational. But don't fool yourselves. He is looking out for himself. Ever notice that there are a few latinas and latinos here in Texas!

Michael Fallai   May 29th, 2009 1:45 am ET

Hard to believe that Sen. Box Turtle is talking sense, and that I agree with him. Can't wait to hear Rush demand an apology from him tomorrow.

Lonestar Wolf   May 29th, 2009 1:44 am ET

At least one Republican may have some gumption. They rest are definitely sick and need to fade out of sight or the public's listening area. After all we just wernt through eight years of lies, and tryanny. An economy that will take us years to recover from. All for the fattening of a few Republicans pocket books. I hope you people that voted for these gangsters will take the Kennedys and all connected with them, and Pelosi along with the Republicans and leave this country. Go to Libya. We're sick of you.

Nestor, Austin, TX   May 29th, 2009 1:41 am ET

MIke May 28th, 2009 10:48 pm ET

"The sad part is that the Republican response gives the appearance of credibility to ttwo individuals who have little if any significance on this country except among a tiny group of wackos"

Limbaugh has over 20,000,000 listeners. That's like CNN, ABC, NBC, CBS, MSNBC, PBS, NPR and AAR combined. But yeah, just a small group of crazies listen to him.

Sandra - Illinois   May 29th, 2009 1:39 am ET

It is about time that we see a Republican stand up and actually make some sense. I only hope that he does not back down and apologize to these two men. Her statement does not show she is a racist, We all use our background and experiences in making decisions, whether it is a legal or personal. Can anyone imagine either of these men sitting on the supreme court making decisions that effect all of us? I don't listen to Rush, but his radical comments are now heard on all of the networks and he is more than scary. We elect our congressmen to represent us, not two deranged men.

Dee Dee Lynn   May 29th, 2009 1:39 am ET

John Cornyn is just plotting to run for President so he's attempting to make himself appear sane and reasonable. Really, he agrees with the other two lunatics, at least, that's what his record would lead a thinking person to believe.

L. McBurney   May 29th, 2009 1:39 am ET

Why don't you include the full text of her remarks? I think you would find that the interpretation urged by Limbaugh, Gingrich and others is exactly the opposite of what she said and meant. Check out Keith Olbermann from Wednesday if you want the full story. If you want to repeat Republican "talking points" at least check out the context first.

Shannondoodle   May 29th, 2009 1:38 am ET

Oh...and John Cornyn is a leader? Of what? Head of the irrelevant minority party? Well whoop de doo.!!!!!

Brook Mantia   May 29th, 2009 1:36 am ET

You know, by the way Lush Rimbaugh and Newt the Grinch are acting, they pretty much prove her point!

Nestor, Austin, TX   May 29th, 2009 1:36 am ET

Senator Cornyn,

Whether she is a racist is up for debate, but the comment she made IS racist. To say that a Hispanic Woman will make a better decision than a White Man is racist and sexist. Maybe she'll apologize or say she misspoke or whatever, but that comment IS racist.

Strom Thurmond   May 29th, 2009 1:35 am ET

Say hello to the Hispanic reincarnation of Strom Thurmond! :)

You can't get rid of me! :)

chris   May 29th, 2009 1:34 am ET

OK, so someone tell me how her comment is not 100% racist.
Even logically, how can one argue that a minority woman judge a white majority better? Shes racist, and stupid.

NotNowMooky   May 29th, 2009 1:33 am ET

Hmm... I'm kind of stunned by this event. A sensible Republican? Please, Senator, don't fall to the Party of Grovel tomorrow. Have some cajones. Good for you.

Born Again Pagan   May 29th, 2009 1:31 am ET

Here you have a racist – you might want to soften that, and you might want to say a reverse racist," Limbaugh said the day before on his radio program.

After so many years of oppression on many non-white races, I don't think that wealthy white men should be allowed to play the race card. As a white women, this my opinion.

Steve   May 29th, 2009 1:29 am ET

Hey great job cnn of including her quote out of context. Top notch reporting.

ML   May 29th, 2009 1:28 am ET

Out of context = Rush & Newt

truth_does_not_hurt_denial_does   May 29th, 2009 1:26 am ET

Obama's strategy is hands down more subtle than the "either you are with us or against us!"

GOP, Feel helpless yet? Cling on to your guns and religion & you will feel better! :(

matt   May 29th, 2009 1:24 am ET

The truth is if a white male were to express the exact sentiment (in reverse, of course) he would be all but finished as a nominee. Anyone with an ounce of honesty about the situation can see that. However, the truth can't be spoken anymore, only political correctness. Let me continue that cowardly practice and state that my post was not meant to offend any particular race, culture, gender, color, religion or creed.

RyanD.   May 29th, 2009 1:20 am ET

Be nice if they didn't cherry-pick the quotes.

I'm slapping Newt if I see him.

ike   May 29th, 2009 1:20 am ET

I'm still trying to figure out what was wrong with her comments. Certain people make decisions based on there experiences in life and therefore have a certain knowledge about things that others don't. These folks are so desperate. If you look at how the Rebublicans act...they act like starved dogs...throw a bone and they knash and naw at it. They are an ebarrasement right now..soon as Rush goes away and they find there own platform then they will be arlight.

D. D.   May 29th, 2009 1:19 am ET

And we need this gentlemen speaking rather than ugly garble of the other four hateful men.Rush appears to be either losing it with Hannity and Newt appears to be joined in thought with Cheney. Those four Americans are frightening with a mic.
How could Hannity even think President Obama would given a thought to drinking beer with him? And Rush jumping up and down reciting his own name? Newt has turned Catholic and no longer any of his pass sins or all his flaws? And Dear Old Cheney fearing people will get his Presidency legacy all wrong so he has to describe it himself?

Jose Moreno   May 29th, 2009 1:19 am ET

I wonder if anyone remembers comments made by these two goons. In Newt Gingrich's own words: "Spanish is the language of the ghetto." Limbaugh also refered to undocumented workers as "stupid Mexicans." As a young American-born Latino man, I find both of these comments extrememly insensitive and (gasp!) racist. How do these two goons accuse someone else, who was merely commenting on how her experiences would bring a unique perspective to the court, of being a racist when these two clearly define what it means to be a racist.

Jamie   May 29th, 2009 1:14 am ET

The thing that makes the statement racist in my view is the implication that someone being born a Latina will have a richness of experience that a white male can’t possibly have and that it will make their opinions “better” (key word) than that of a white male more often than not. Seems to suggest that being born a white male will put you at a disadvantage when compared to Latinas since your opinions will more often than not be worse… And why are they worse? Since you weren’t born a Latina, you didn’t get richness of experience and therefore your opinions are more often than not worse than those of the Latina. I don’t know what you call thinking/hoping your race gives you an inherent superiority over other races that they can’t overcome, but I call it racist. At least that’s how I interpret it.

Ultimately, this seems like a single instance of bad wording on her part and I don’t really see anything else that would imply her being an actual racist. More could come out, but I’m not going on a hunt over it. As it is now, I think she deserves the benefit of the doubt. Though it would be nice to have a simple clarification at some point just to hear her say it directly.

elyse   May 29th, 2009 1:05 am ET

i love how reps are even coming out and saying these peoplen't be (limbaugh and gingrich) comments should be relevent. i think these people are damaging the republican party. they are so vicious in their remarks and the american people see that.

thank you to those republicans who do not stand behind these people.

Joe   May 29th, 2009 1:05 am ET

For those urging everyone to read Sotomayor's full-context remarks, I can only agree, because the full context doesn't change the meaning of the quote in question. In fact, the full context REINFORCES the perception that Sotomayor is racist, because with the full context, we not only can read the sensational quote, but use that exact quote in order to refute O'Connor's assertion that wise men and wise women can come to the same conclusions.

She refutes it basically by saying that she believes she can come to BETTER conclusions than those who aren't older, Latina women.

Sorry, that's racist, and it's sexist.

So, I agree: please, everyone, read the ENTIRE context.

Whatever...   May 29th, 2009 1:05 am ET

Some white men kill me...One vaguely controversial statement about race and you think they suffered thru Jim Crow. Where was newt when Limbaugh was referring to Obama as the magic Negro throughout the campaign. Oh that wasn't racist, No, no–that was just in jest.

It's about high time white men learn to hear a criticism on race since they have been benefitting from discrimination and bigotry for so long. Man up and stop your effin' whining! EVERYBODY else has been putting up with racial language since like the beginning of time. What makes you guys so special??!!

Sandy   May 29th, 2009 1:01 am ET

Wow! Someone is finally standing up to Rush Limpballs! Wait, hold on...it'll get retracted come morning. No one wants to offend the head wacko!

Mike Mundy, Houston, TX   May 29th, 2009 1:00 am ET

To hell with you, Cornyn and the other members of the RNC! Rush and Newt are ABSOLUTELY RIGHT!

We the People! We the People! Don't EVER forget that! You're arrogant, same 'ol stale republican "leadership"!

Joe   May 29th, 2009 12:59 am ET

I love watching people try to sugarcoat racism.

In the full context of Sotomayor's comments, she disagrees with O'Connor's assertion that wise people of differing genders can come to the same conclusions.

Admittedly, Sotomayor's first point was that no universal definition of "wise" exists.

However, her second point, in defending her disagreement, was to state that she hopes (as in, she believes) that she can come to better conclusions than non-Latino, white men (which is who she was talking about, let's be honest).

She meant that her experience as a Latina woman makes her capable of better judgment than white men. PERIOD.

One may attempt to sugarcoat this, but it's just not possible.

Sotomayor is a racist.

Texas Annie *-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*   May 29th, 2009 12:59 am ET

I'm stunned he said it! Thank you Sen. Cornyn for finally stepping up and saying something. It's time the GOP tells Limbaugh & Gingrinch (and all of their ilk) to STOP it. They're NOT helping the party, and they're coming off as totally ignorant idiots. Thanks for stepping up.

renea   May 29th, 2009 12:59 am ET

THis is all just a political show. Even if it have been a white woman this president nominated there still would have been a issue, because the republicans just cannot stand president Obama. Its not so much about who the president chose the bigger picture is with pres. Obama himself. Watch Limbaugh get an apology for what was said about him.

Barbara   May 29th, 2009 12:57 am ET

Such a disgrace for the world to view the nasty men from the Republican party saying mean spirited things about the new President,and trying to trash anything he does, rather than grow up and act like mature adults and show the spirit cooperation in getting our Country back to a better place.

It was good to hear another positive voice from the Republican Party today, it would be good if many more spoke up in a positive way

Dave of the mountains   May 29th, 2009 12:56 am ET

The Rush/Grinch Republicans don't just have a problem with just this one Latino.

Comyn is a loser.....   May 29th, 2009 12:51 am ET

why don't you follow Arlen Specter into the Democratic party and you too can lose all of your seniority and become a flunky at the beck and call of Obama.

Pat-Indianapolis   May 29th, 2009 12:49 am ET

Cornyn is well liked by hispanics in his homestate, not real surprised he took Sotomayors' side in this one

ShiWms n Phx AZ   May 29th, 2009 12:48 am ET

Finally someone with some sense from the Republican party speaks. Sir you sound like a Leader...

mhsarge, Des Moines   May 29th, 2009 12:46 am ET

If what I'm hearing and reading is correct, any person that sits on the bench, any bench, is to give up personal feelings and life's experiences just to become a judge, Were that the case then why hasn't the government come up with a super computer that knows nothing but the law in every instance and let the computer decide the letter of the law, then there could be no name-calling and back-biting like there is now and we the public could get on with our lives without listening to the bobble-heads trying to tell us how to think and live and the computer would not be the so-called "activist" that the GOP think certain people are that are on the bench.

pj   May 29th, 2009 12:43 am ET

Any of you right wing dinosaurs bother to read her actual words?

No wonder the Re(diculous)publican party has died...

You guys don't deserve to be a party.

wiseowl   May 29th, 2009 12:40 am ET

Sorry, but Mr. Texas, Cornyn, knows exactly what he is doing. Again ..... he represent Texas .... the Latino vote. He knows where his bread is buttered.....Mr. Cornyn remembered voters will be @ the polls next year.

ron   May 29th, 2009 12:40 am ET

quoted from Samuel Alito's senate confirmation " When I get a case about discrimination, I have to think about people in my own family who suffered discrimination because of their ethnic background or because of religion or because of gender. And I do take that into account. " and "when a case comes before me involving, let's say, someone who is an immigrant - and we get an awful lot of immigration cases and naturalization cases - I can't help but think of my own ancestors, because it wasn't that long ago when they were in that position. " so i guess they're all racist

Asian Obamite   May 29th, 2009 12:39 am ET

When a dynasty falls, so too does it elite in a cesspool of moral depravity, corruption, ignorance, arrogance, and shameful self promotion.

Alas, the dark ages are upon us when we have demagogues spewing hatred and misinformation that are believed by a significant group of people in the nation.

Judith Briles   May 29th, 2009 12:38 am ET

Racist? You've got to be kidding ... how about Realist?

David   May 29th, 2009 12:37 am ET

Yes, Gingrich and Limbaugh are a bit extreme and even occasionally off their rockers. However, their basic point is valid. Suppose a white man made a comment to the effect that he hoped that his being white and a man would somehow help him make fairer and more informed decisions, regardless of what reasoning he used to back up his statement. For bringing race and gender into the discussion, especially a currently less politcally correct race and gender, he would be mercilessly crucified by the press and whichever party the president who was nominating him was not from, whether Republican or Democrat.

Mazhar Zia   May 29th, 2009 12:37 am ET

Sotomayor is a hipocrit and a racist. Obama selected her to improve his chances for a second term. Next year Obama and his liberal extremists will be defeated and the senate will return to a balanced shape. Lets just hope we can avoid socialism thrust down our throats until then.

ridosworld   May 29th, 2009 12:36 am ET

Still loving how the left fears Limbaugh. Get your own talk radio host to talk about how we Republicans are racist. What was his name? Imus?

George B.   May 29th, 2009 12:33 am ET

In my 56 years on this earth I have never made a statement that could be taken out of context or that I wished I had worded differently. Yes ... I am the perfect man ... and I would expect someone like me ... who obviously can walk on water ... would be confirmed for an important appointment without a hint of partisanship.

Doug   May 29th, 2009 12:33 am ET

The GOP is a bunch of spineless people Look at Cornyn, Odf course the democrats want him to say that it makes confirming her easier for them. What we need is more conservatives to run for office and kick these wannabe liberals out of office

Zach   May 29th, 2009 12:32 am ET

As a republican, I am ashamed to even be associated with Rush. He is arrogant beyond belief and goes way too far. He does not speak for the entire party, and just because someone disagrees with him it does not mean that they should switch to the democratic party. In this day and age you cannot denounce a public figure as a racist with such debatable "proof". The GOP will never return to full strength until Rush is out of the picture.

JimInTenn   May 29th, 2009 12:31 am ET

1) Let Rush keep talking. Best thing to happen to the Democratic Party in a very long time.

2) The GOP does NOT have the votes in the Senate to block her confirmation, so the tactic has to be one of smear, especially so early in the confirmation process.

3) A CNN reader poll suggests by a margin of 88% to 12% of respondents expect Judge Sotomayor to be confirmed by the Senate as the next Supreme Court Justice.

4) All this suggests – to me at least – that in the 6 months since the November elections, the GOP still has not found a leader, direction, or become anything more than the Party of "No."

Ronald Reagan must be rolling over in his grave.

Jim Barnaby   May 29th, 2009 12:30 am ET

I'm 63 years old and have lived in Chihuahua, Mexico in the Barrancas del Cobre seasonally for 33 years. I must say that her statement is right on. White males like Limbaugh and Gringich are so out of touch that they will, only, attract like minded loosers. This country is trying to make changes after these past 8 years and I support these moves to reconciliation with the world community after 8 years of criminals in the White House running the show.

Bob Pacific Grove, Ca   May 29th, 2009 12:29 am ET

Republicans eating their own.....'Ya gotta love it!!

greg   May 29th, 2009 12:28 am ET

wait on it...tomorrow he'll be told by Lush Rimjob to leave the GOP.

steve fielder   May 29th, 2009 12:26 am ET

"Neither one of these men are elected Republican officials", but they still pack a lot of punch in Republican circles. Rush Limbaugh has 20 million fans and Newt Gingrich is the author of the "Contract with America" that fought to defeat Bill Clinton and succeeded in securing his impeachment. I salute Senator John Cornyn's denouncement of their dishonest tactics and I only hope a lot of Republicans feel the same way!

God   May 29th, 2009 12:25 am ET

So John Cornyn thinks Newt and the Blimpbaugh are irrelevant.

Tell us something we don't know, John. :)

Dee, NJ   May 29th, 2009 12:24 am ET

Newt + Rush = GOP (White Men). Black Man (President USA) + Latio Woman (Supeme Court) = CHOICE!

lysh   May 29th, 2009 12:24 am ET

It's become apparent that Gingrich and Cheney are having a popularity contest with the right-wing base. They've become a bunch of cheerleaders with Rush as their captain. These people know they're incredibly unpopular with America and have no chance at holding an elected office, so they've turned to this pathetic form of comradery.

Cato   May 29th, 2009 12:23 am ET

I don't know which is worse. The comments that Limbaugh made or the fact that John Cornyn from my home State of Texas is considered a TOP REPUBLICAN!

Limbaugh IS an idiot..and I really believe that HE speaks for the Grand Old Petroleum party......

They allowed George W. Bush and Dick Cheney to 'head' their party for 8 years...they are now being held accountable for all that it entails!

SV   May 29th, 2009 12:21 am ET

Sotomayer was commenting on the difference her more diverse background would make to a judicial bench dominated by white males.

If this country had a history of latinas hunting down, beating up and lynching white males, then, perhaps, could Gingbaugh could call her statement racist.

Otherwise, not so much. Context makes all the difference.

Truth-Bomb Thrower   May 29th, 2009 12:21 am ET

The woman IS A RACIST. It's because of spineless handwringers like this that the republican party is in the minority and the dumb-a-crats have free reign to destroy America. He should do the G.O.P a favor and leave it!!

Keep up the heat, Rush and Newt!!

Simon   May 29th, 2009 12:20 am ET

I'm sorry, when every Republican with a sense of honesty and ethics seems to be castigated by the GOP's leadership, the only conclusion I can come to is that the GOP leadership must be evil. They literally have no capacity for rational thought! At what point does their ignorance of American ideals separate them completely from their countrymen?

Craigy   May 29th, 2009 12:19 am ET

Senator Cornhole can sweet-talk the media all he wants; he is a hardcore partisan intent on keeping Minnesota with one senator as long as possible, ignoring the democratic election results to further his own party's interest.

arturius knight   May 29th, 2009 12:19 am ET

Our backgrounds give us different perspectives as to the interpretation of laws. If not, what's the significance of seeking a balanced court in regards to gender or ethnicity or religion?

pa dem   May 29th, 2009 12:18 am ET

finally a republican showing some smarts.

pa dem   May 29th, 2009 12:17 am ET

finally a republican who is showing same kind of smarts.

roy elliott   May 29th, 2009 12:16 am ET

Say all you want ...but Russ is NOT afraid to speak his mind. Yes, he represents many of the conservative voters in America. Obama is driving America to SOCIALISM !! The Democrates are always willing to put our money where their mouth is!!We all know that her appointment is assured.....But please let'sall express our concern regarding affirmative action,abortion,illegal immigration and taxes ( redistribution of wealth)

Sick of double standards   May 29th, 2009 12:13 am ET

I never thought I'd say this but Newt's analogy is dead on correct. It IS a racist statement. If I white man said something like this they WOULD be run out of town, no question. She is also suspected of racism in her ruling against the New Haven firefighters, which will likely be overturned by the current supreme court. Her recently released editorial from when she was a student accusing Princeton of discrimination is also very troubling. The evidence is mounting that she is a judicial activist with a racial agenda. Cornyn is just being a typical politician, he's scared to death to say the truth and is pandering for the Latino vote. You don't dare criticize any minority as a politician or you are accused of being a racist.

Gary   May 29th, 2009 12:13 am ET

The Republican civil war is about to break out...

LW In Texas   May 29th, 2009 12:12 am ET

My Senator Conryn has done something right this time, Rush is over the top and way out of line and needs to find a new line of work.

zappafan   May 29th, 2009 12:10 am ET

Rector:
You should read the entire quote, because you're completely wrong about what she said. She went on to say that she must set her experiences aside ("check them" i think was how she put it) and decide the case based on the law. She never said or intimated that brown is better than white. I equate it to being left-handed. You can do everything right-handed people can do because you live in a right-handed world, but you have a perspective the majority doesn't. Same with her. She lives in a white male dominated world (*especially* the judiciary) but has experiences they can never have. BTW, summa cum laude at Princeton means "not stupid".

abozeman   May 29th, 2009 12:10 am ET

I never met a more clueless group of people in my life. It's a no-brainer she will be confimed. Your best shot to reclaim the white house is to talk about the wasted spending.

Glen in Los Angeles   May 29th, 2009 12:08 am ET

It's refreshing to hear one in power make a cogent remark about irresponsible language by public figures. I enjoy a vigorous debate by mature parties and Cornyn has thrown down a gauntlet, a challenge to raise the bar towards an intelligent discussion of issues. He quashes the current silliness of Gingrich and Limbaugh.

jason, tx   May 29th, 2009 12:05 am ET

Anyone who thinks their background doesn't influence them is living in a different reality. That doesn't exist.

Glen in Los Angeles   May 29th, 2009 12:04 am ET

It's refreshing to one in power make a cogent remark about irresponsible language by public figures. I enjoy a vigorous debate by mature parties and Cornyn has thrown down a gauntlet, a challenge to the current silliness of Gingrich and Limbaugh.

Jeff   May 29th, 2009 12:04 am ET

Limbaugh needs to stand down. Hes gotten so much into the habit of being a talk radio attack dog, he doesn't know when he's hurting his own party.

Julia   May 29th, 2009 12:03 am ET

The best thing elected GOP officials could do for their party is to openly and publicly denounce Limbaugh, Coulter, Cheney (and his silly, attention seeking daughter) and Gingrich, fire Michael Steele and close ranks. Absolutely close the door on these folks. And shut out the big mouths in their party. Much of the day to day garbage spewed by these people have alienated millions of voting Americans: Mormons (Michael Steele, et al), gays (most of the conservative pundits), Blacks (the entire party), and Latinos. If they continue to allow these continuous sound bites, these folks will see to the extinction of a Republican electorate.

Veronica   May 29th, 2009 12:03 am ET

Well, for once, I agree with Cornyn. Good on him for speaking the truth. However, Lush isn't going to like this, one bit ... how long before Cornyn's apologizing?

abozeman   May 29th, 2009 12:03 am ET

Unless the GOP wants to be out of power for ever they need to stop and regroup and go after Obama on the money that is being wasted . It's all about the money.

Johnny DC   May 29th, 2009 12:01 am ET

She's not a racist. She just thinks Latin women are smarter than white men.

She can also clean a house better than I can. There I said it. I must not be racist either.

videodrome   May 29th, 2009 12:01 am ET

As far as Sotomayor is concerned, if she wants to talk trash and say that some Latinas are smarter than white males....then let her bring it on.
I know blacks and Asians that are smarter than some of the blue collar white guys I work with....SO??????
So what??????
And how many "white males" have lived through the eyes of an African-American or Latino?? I don't any people that own several bodies or identities. So this white person (myself) cannot claim to always be able to walk in someone else's shoes or understand anyone else's background or lifestyle.
Not that you could pay me to do so, but I believe I have made my point.

Rumsfeld   May 29th, 2009 12:00 am ET

Wow, a repuglican speaks up against the GOP good ole boys. He'll be lead to the sacrificial alter soon. Yes, he will either be forced to apologize or he will be silenced by his party members.

Dee   May 28th, 2009 11:58 pm ET

PUH-LEASE. CNN, don't you have something better to do than try to make news out of what Limbaugh says, followed by what somebody else says about wehat Limbaugh says?

Try some NEWS.

Kevin   May 28th, 2009 11:57 pm ET

White males just continue to be the can that everyone else gets to kick around to make themselves feel better. I'm a liberal, and even I feel Rush wasn't over the line on his comment. White guy says something like that, he would get booed off the stage.

barb   May 28th, 2009 11:57 pm ET

Rush and Newt would rather have an all white male Supreme Court and call it justice for all! It's sad that they get so much press when they open their mouths.

Black Vet   May 28th, 2009 11:57 pm ET

Obama gives the jobs to Haspanics and Mexicans that blacks do want. She is not even qualified. Obama is Uncle (Haspanic) Tom

videodrome   May 28th, 2009 11:52 pm ET

Good for you, John Cornyn.
Although I hope Rush and the bunch don't make you sorry for not agreeing with everything they say.

Monty Burns, Springfield   May 28th, 2009 11:52 pm ET

Where is Mr. Steele in all of this? Explaining the Republican approach to the nomination process? Nah, he's probably hiding in the corner, hoping that the lunatic fringe won't ask him his opinion.

zivo24   May 28th, 2009 11:49 pm ET

So typical of the neo-cons.

When that sentence is read in context with the rest of the speech it is impossible for a sensible person to come to the conclusion that she intended anything untoward with her words.

She was speaking to a group of Latina lawyers and professionals and simply saying that people of different backgrounds bring very different perspectives to their fields, which is very true.

It is really pathetic that the neo-cons are trying to spin her words into something they are not. But it's also kind of funny that the worst they can come up with on her is twisting her words and calling her names.

The world will be a better place when the GOP meets it's timely demise.

TWetz   May 28th, 2009 11:47 pm ET

Isn't in fact REFRESHING to see these Republican stalwarts–Rush, Gingrich, Tacredo, etc.–get all incensed at perceived racism??? Funny, though, I don't ever recall any of them being so incensed before–when racism was directed at minorities. But hey, turn that racism around and try to aim it at white people, and WHOA all of a sudden they are all upset about those no-good racists! Very very transparent! Of course Senator Cornyn is correct!

Son of G Dubb   May 28th, 2009 11:46 pm ET

Rush the drug addict and Gingrich the newt are only protecting their huge bank accounts by feeding the Golden Goose, the republican base.

Michael   May 28th, 2009 11:46 pm ET

My birthday is coming up soon, my only wish is that Obama would sign an executive order to extradite Rush from the country never to return again.

My fingers are crossed!

Ed   May 28th, 2009 11:45 pm ET

Anyone, and I mean ANYONE that makes a judgment about a person based on their race, is a racist. There should not be a double standard in ANY case. If it was wrong then, then it is wrong now. Stop making excuses.

Bo   May 28th, 2009 11:45 pm ET

Remember, Cornyn is from Texas. This wasn't political courage on his part. This was him being able to understand the demographic trends in his state and not wanting to alienate Hispanic voters with long memories. Still, it was the right thing to say.

gary davis Harbor Oregon   May 28th, 2009 11:45 pm ET

CORNYN needs to just keep talking and then step up and change parties .
it would show he really means what he says about the idiots that can't shut up about anything and everything the President is trying to do.
and he's right about them they are not in any political job or have any resposability to anyone but themselves .. sounds like personal greedy twits to me .. repubs are me myself and I .. and MONEY MONEY and threats ,and and and .. it goes on and on

Matt   May 28th, 2009 11:44 pm ET

Very nice comment, Senator. Thank you for noting that these are self-appointed talking heads, not elected officials.

And like another reader said, I'm sure they'll be going after you next.

Carole Clarke   May 28th, 2009 11:44 pm ET

Limbaugh and Gingrich have nothing to lose by running a nasty crack up the flagpole to see if any other Republicans want to salute it. If no one does then they have their answer and can go trundling off into the ether until they get called out for the next attack. Best thing is to wait and see what comes up, if anything, during the Senate confirmation hearings. I just hope that it won't be a fiasco like the one for Justice Clarence Thomas.

Nick   May 28th, 2009 11:44 pm ET

If the GOP is to recover from its total defeat in 2008, it needs to start acting more like Senator Cornyn and less like the ignorant goons who inhabit the right-wing talk radio waves. It's not a mistake that McCain's best speech in the 2008 election was his conciliatory concession speech, as opposed to the campaign talking points that were simply loaded to the barrel with antagonism.

Cornyn's amicable, respectful demeanor towards Judge Sotomayor – despite his differences with her when it comes down to the issues – is something the Republican party should consider replicating more often. Attack the issues, not the person(s) behind them.

Walter   May 28th, 2009 11:42 pm ET

I'm sorry but I think Gingrich is right. Any person with this level of authority needs to be held to the highest standard regardless political affiliation. Anyone who who make inflammatory comments, in context or not, should not be allowed to write legal opinion which needs to be explicity clear. Our country is drowning in biased confusing law. please do not make it worse.

RMG   May 28th, 2009 11:40 pm ET

Very well said and I appreciate his reasonable and correct response the Limbaugh and Gingrich. Thank you Mr. Cornyn.

"I think it's terrible," Sen. John Cornyn, the chairman of the National Republican Senatorial Committee, told NPR's "All Things Considered" Thursday. "This is not the kind of tone any of us want to set when it comes to performing our constitutional responsibilities of advise and consent.”

"Neither one of these men are elected Republican officials. I just don't think it’s appropriate. I certainly don't endorse it. I think it’s wrong," he said.

Tim E   May 28th, 2009 11:40 pm ET

I think it sounded more sexist than racist, but I'm not sure that it is any better for an interpretation of the Constitution to turn upon the time of the month than it is the color of the judge's skin. Her opinions are going to be fun reading!

Philly conservative   May 28th, 2009 11:40 pm ET

This woman is a member of La Raza. Thats radical enough for me. I wouldn't want her or a member of the KKK on the Supreme Court.

Dan Field   May 28th, 2009 11:38 pm ET

Its also time for us to turn off Limbaugh completely. Its absolutely inappropriate for someone, a U S citizen, to speak out, and on numerous occassions, that "he hopes the President of the United States fails".
I have never heard anyone in history or learned of such, ever make such comments!! Why would you ever wish any such things on our Country?
That is totally irresponsible, unacceptable, unpatriotic, down-right unethical, to even have such thoughts, no matter what political party one belongs to, no matter what ethnic group one belongs to, etc etc.
Please turn this crazy character off! Enough with the negativity!!

Chtei   May 28th, 2009 11:37 pm ET

I appreciate the truth finally told by a responsible Congressmen that actually cares about the truth! I hope that he does not have to apologize to these two ridiculous men, both Newt and Rush, about how he believes his party should stand. After all, the people actually ELECTED him to do this. They don't elect Rush because they know that man is in need of serious mental help.

Proud American   May 28th, 2009 11:37 pm ET

Now here is one Republican whose trying to save his job.. Smart guy.

Arlen Spector   May 28th, 2009 11:36 pm ET

John, If you can't beat 'em join 'em.

SkiPete   May 28th, 2009 11:35 pm ET

It's interesting that the criticism from Newt and Rush is that she was being 'Racist' for that statement which includes her heritage and her gender

Wonder why didn't they complain that she was being a Sexist as well or instead ?

joy   May 28th, 2009 11:34 pm ET

"I would hope that a wise Latina woman, with the richness of her experiences, would more often than not reach a better conclusion than a white male who hasn't lived that life."

NOTE: she is comparing life experience and nothing more. i am a white women, with a white husband and have been listening to white men brag about their "worldliness" my whole life. get over it folks.

Peter (CA)   May 28th, 2009 11:34 pm ET

Wow, when John Cornyn is the reasonable one, what does that say about the rest of them?

I'll give him his props on this one. He shows sound judgment. He didn't say he agreed with her, he just said be reasonable.

Fran   May 28th, 2009 11:34 pm ET

When people look to a hack entertainer for political wisdom and guidance you know things have gotten pretty degenerate in the culture. The GOP is becoming a farce. Sad day for two-party politics in the US.

Eddie   May 28th, 2009 11:33 pm ET

Common sense is not so common. Someone please tell Rush and Newt that the 'slave master' and 'slave' can not be held to the same standard when it comes to their comments on slavery.

Sunnb   May 28th, 2009 11:33 pm ET

I am a Democrat. For as much as I would love to see the demise of the GOP, my gut feeling tells me that I wish the GOP comes out of this as a strong party, having tamed the radicals on the right. However, Rush, Sean, Laura and Mark (and Newt) are the gorillas that are not going to go away anytime soon. So...good luck GOP with your plight and hope to see you on a better day. Our system needs apposing views for balance.

JonDie   May 28th, 2009 11:33 pm ET

Cornyn better watch out of Republican leaders Limbaugh, Cheney and Gingrich are gong to kick Cornyn out of the Republican Party.

Desert Storm VETERAN - Welcome to the end of the era of dumb ass Republicans and Stoopid Retards like Rush Limbaugh and Newt in power   May 28th, 2009 11:33 pm ET

Rush and Newt do not matter at all. Neither is an elected official and both are has beens. Rush is fat food junkie and Newt is a fat head monkey. Sotomayor will be confirmed by the Senate. She will be the best thing to happen on the high court since Christopher Columbus took a cruise ship to our shores. Rush is in rehab and Newt is on the rag. Pay no attention to these two doofuses. Yay .... Obama won -– AGAIN!!! Whoopee!!

Hayley   May 28th, 2009 11:32 pm ET

Oh for crying out loud, Newt, you imbecile, Sotomayor did NOT say, “my experience as a Latina woman makes me better than a white man,” she said, “my experience as a Latina woman makes it easier for me to understand the lives of other Latina women, than it is for a white man who hasn’t experienced life as a Latina woman.” That’s not racism; it’s empiricism.

HopeisLost   May 28th, 2009 11:31 pm ET

Thank you John for bringing this to CNN attention. We should all know what she said and who she is, for it will shed some light on who the one appointed her really is

bflatblueswoman   May 28th, 2009 11:31 pm ET

Forget about it being a Republican showing some good sense; It's rare to find any party having any sense other than the sense of hatred and nit picking about everything and about everyone who isn't their kind of person. Politics and money go hand in hand- They both corupt the very soul of a person.

Jason   May 28th, 2009 11:31 pm ET

Oh, and one other thing: I thought you Moveon.org liberals said that Rush was now irrelevant after the election last November? Well, when are you ladies on the left going to SHADDAAAP about Rush already?!

George Greenman   May 28th, 2009 11:29 pm ET

White Men Can't Jump huh? This is what you choose to make a point with? A comedy movie? Protest it huh? Then can we protest Soul Man? Come with something better than the title of a movie please.

Jason   May 28th, 2009 11:28 pm ET

All you liberals whining about taking Sotomayor comments out of context did it yourselves when you said Rush said he "wanted Obama to fail." You people forgot to include the part where Rush said he wants Obama's SOCIALIST POLICIES to fail – not himself fail in general. But, that's what we expect from you hypocrites on the modern representative left who think you are the true center of this nation and feel that true Conservative Republicans should shift center-left. I don't think so.

brianbrat   May 28th, 2009 11:28 pm ET

Apparently, you must be an elected official to hear your voice. If not, you're nothing until the next approriate election.

Action   May 28th, 2009 11:28 pm ET

Uh-Oh...I feel an apology coming on.....

Laura S   May 28th, 2009 11:26 pm ET

You guys are probably right. Cornyn will be groveling for Rush's forgiveness in a day or two. Hopefully he has the guts to stand by his comments and convince others to do the same.
Sotomayor's comment wasn't racist it was cultural. And it was true. And she will be given the opportunity to explain herself.

mjl   May 28th, 2009 11:25 pm ET

he's too smart to be a republician.

David Newport, OR   May 28th, 2009 11:24 pm ET

It is wrong...just as letting Rush, Newt and Cheney appear to speak as the voice of the GOP. But until you correct your bad children, whose fault is it when they act up? The children or the parents?

carlos   May 28th, 2009 11:23 pm ET

the lizzard and king blimp should have their tongues tied to a pick up truck.................waterboarding anyone?

Ancient River   May 28th, 2009 11:23 pm ET

Rush Limbaugh failed most of the ONE he took and never graduated from anything but high school-and all after coming from an accomplished family with means. He is a loser of the worst sort., lots of advantages and no desire to really exert himself. Why would anyone with half a brain listen to him? Listening to him, the GOP will become obsolete and we will all be facing the Libertarian Party, which truly esposes the actual beleifs of the current base of the shrinking Republican Party. Wait and see. It'll be the Dems and Libertarians. Mark my words. The GOP is over.

Ping   May 28th, 2009 11:22 pm ET

"Reasonable Republican" and "Moderate Conservative" are becoming oxymorons. This train wreck of a party is run by fat drug addicted entertainers and mouth foaming idealogues. Come on over Mr. Cornyn.

steven harnack   May 28th, 2009 11:22 pm ET

now this is the dangerous republican! even though he probably agrees 100% with rush and newt he has the political sense to know that they have to stop being seen as aliens from the planet hate. this is more typical of usual republican behavior, to hide a mean spirit behind reasonable language.

TM   May 28th, 2009 11:22 pm ET

Sotomayor's comments are nearly identical to comments made by Justices' Alito AND Scalia during THEIR respective Senate confirmations! Are Republicans now physically unable to read books, newspapers or the Congressional Record, or "use the Google"?!

And while I am both surprised and pleased to see this response from Senator Cornyn, I will be even more surprised if he makes it to next week without making a groveling apology for contradicting "Boss" Limbaugh

LouAz   May 28th, 2009 11:21 pm ET

After a while, the STINK even gets to a strong man.

Razor Willy   May 28th, 2009 11:19 pm ET

Fitz Texas when will they make Texas it own country? Can't wait... you can keep all the rednecks... Once you are independent you will have state taxes Mr texas. Good luck ass

John   May 28th, 2009 11:19 pm ET

Just gotta laugh at the spectacle of Republicans in such a self-righteous huff as to label others racist on the basis of out-of-context quotes.

Keep digging that hole, GOP, and jump in it when its deep enough.

lkb   May 28th, 2009 11:18 pm ET

a terrible thing to say but when you have an AG who has basically made reverse discrimination comments, you are bound to hear from here on in.

tlobe   May 28th, 2009 11:18 pm ET

Rush Limbaugh is nothing but a hot air machine–capable of keeping a balloon aloft for hours on end. He is not an official spokesman for the GOP, but just a blabbermouth who has managed to bamboolze folks into paying him megabucks as an entertainer–just as Keith Oberman and his cohort Mr Matthews are highly paid entertainers on MSNBC. I tend towards being a Republican but haven't listened to Limbaugh since he first came on air in early 1990s.

brad   May 28th, 2009 11:18 pm ET

is it Rush Limbaugh for president? 2012 Vice President Dick Cheney.

Commentator   May 28th, 2009 11:14 pm ET

"Top Republican ..."

I thought the problem is that there is no "top republican." That's why fruit loops and Limbaugh and never-weres like Gingrich are getting so much press.

Eric   May 28th, 2009 11:14 pm ET

I said it in January 2008. There is no way the Republican party will survive. I hate to say I was right, but you do see the whole coalition of Right-wing nuts and conservatives crumbling in front of your eyes.

Obama - NOPE   May 28th, 2009 11:14 pm ET

Another Republicrat.

arnolde   May 28th, 2009 11:13 pm ET

cj May 28th, 2009 10:28 pm ET

Unless her quote was fictitious, how on Earth could she not be regarded as racist? Since I know 95% of those who leave comments for CNN articles are liberal democrats, I'm sure I'll see an explanation, no matter how tortured it is
_______

In that case,may I suggest you read her comments in their ENTIRETY. It's really quite easy to use "the Google"

prishtinali   May 28th, 2009 11:12 pm ET

you might have to work overtime.!

Steve M   May 28th, 2009 11:12 pm ET

We'll all see how soon he'll be reduced to kissing Limbaugh's ring and groveling in apology to their cowardly, bigoted, draft dodging "leader".

Steve M
Killeen, TX

alvino   May 28th, 2009 11:11 pm ET

Gingrich will demand that Cornyn resign from office. How dare he try to newter the Newt.

mikemaz   May 28th, 2009 11:10 pm ET

The racist comments just show that Newt and Rush totally dont understand what this woman is all about. As a white guy married to a women with a latin background i totally understand what she was saying and its not racist at all. newt and Rush need to grow up a little. And man why is Newt getting so much Press? newt Gingrich? really? Thats who the repubs are pulling out lol good going guys

prishtinali   May 28th, 2009 11:10 pm ET

is this all these senators do is dig up information from the past to talk about in the present? don't they have better **** to do for the people that put them in the office, let the past remain and start working on the future.

Anna Matthews   May 28th, 2009 11:09 pm ET

STOP RESPONDING TO THEM!!. They are not elected, they do not represent your party, stop responding to them. Let them say whatever they want, just don't respond. Ignoring them and refusing to comment when asked by the media is the best way to shut them up. They don't matter, stop giving them influence they don't have. IGNORE THEM!!

windfall   May 28th, 2009 11:09 pm ET

As a very liberal democrat, it's actually nice to see good old fashioned republicans speaking out against the far right nuts. Colin Powell on Sunday morning, and now Sen. Cornyn, are reminders of what the party actually stands for.
Why they ever let the extremists run away with their party is a mystery to me.

Jeff, TX   May 28th, 2009 11:08 pm ET

Wow, a side of Cornyn we rarely see. He was a Bush water-carrier, and has been a pretty firm conservative. I do not consider this inconsistent with his previous comments, stances, votes, etc., but it is quite a thing to dare these days. Senator Cornyn is taking a leadership risk here...

Joe - Chicago   May 28th, 2009 11:08 pm ET

How come its always the GOP who brings up the racist charge? Projection maybe?

Okon   May 28th, 2009 11:07 pm ET

Senetor, when are you apologizing?

Paul   May 28th, 2009 11:07 pm ET

My Word – Once again the Republicans takes one line, totally out of context from a whole speach – and makes it their talking point. How dumb do you think we are??????

DJays   May 28th, 2009 11:05 pm ET

I mean where partisan politics governs reasoning and logic

Atlanta   May 28th, 2009 11:05 pm ET

Don, you should wait for 24 hours to see if he start apologizing to Rush before making any judgment.

Oregon   May 28th, 2009 11:04 pm ET

Ahhh....Limpy and Gingy are becoming irrelevant,,

DJays   May 28th, 2009 11:04 pm ET

Hey guys, where was Limbaugh and Gingrich when she was nominated and approved by the Republican President Bush and Republican Senate as a federal judge, this is a perfect example where partisan governs reasoning and logic, "what was good for H.W. Bush is bad for Obama" go figure.

plyj   May 28th, 2009 11:03 pm ET

Well, it's apparent most here are libs. Gingrich and Rush can say what ever they want. You guys just can't stand it that they have an opinion that doesn't equal yours. If a Dem said this about a Conserv judge it would just be fine with you, right? I don't know that she is a racist, but she's definitely made some statements that should raise some kind of flag.

mike   May 28th, 2009 11:02 pm ET

A Republican with integrity. Who'd have quessed? Good for you Senator Cornyn.

Sam   May 28th, 2009 11:02 pm ET

Nothing either one of these 2 men said is even racist. Liberals have such thin skin its unbelievavble. I guess with the nomination of a Latin women we can cover all the colors of the fabric of America here legally or not. Within the last month within a hundred mile radius in Nebraska and Iowa 2 illegal immigrant males kill a 3 year old girl and a 4 year old girl. Both were American citizens but we have such a limp di** government that we wont close the borders to these snakes.

chuck from Tulsa   May 28th, 2009 11:01 pm ET

Rush is an idiot.

I am so glad that what he says is gospel to the Republicans. Rush is the biggest weapon the Democrats have in their arsenal.

Laura S   May 28th, 2009 11:00 pm ET

It's about time these Republicans stand up to Limbaugh's hate and destructive comments. He is succeeding in bringing this party down. They all need to publicly distance themselves from this man and repair their image.

Brian   May 28th, 2009 10:59 pm ET

Sen. John Cornyn deserves credit here. I wish more republicans would speak up before the Republican party goes the way of the dodo.

That sentence was badly worded but if you read her whole speech you would get her intention. She makes a similar case regarding sex.

Democrats are no better, they would pounce on this kind of thing as well but they would probably be smarter by putting a better face on it. If you want to attack her put a female or latino in front of the camera. All these old white mem attacking a latino women is just reinforcing the republican stereotype.

Paul   May 28th, 2009 10:59 pm ET

Hurray for Senator Cronyn. It shows that he can be true to his principles, be it conservative. It is refreshing to hear something sensible out of a Republican Senator's mouth.

dave   May 28th, 2009 10:58 pm ET

republicans forgiven?... rushes ratings go up?.... newt goes back into retirement.... nice way to take one for the team... its a trick.... MISDIRECTION...plain and simple

Alan   May 28th, 2009 10:57 pm ET

good cop/bad cop - how convenient!

notice that Cornyn is the only one that needs to worry about re-election

Mitchell from MS   May 28th, 2009 10:55 pm ET

To all the liberal sheep here in this spin zone, she did make a racist comment that if the comment came from a republican the GOP canadite would have been torn to shreds in the media. I do not know what is in this womans heart but a great book has pointed out "Out of the mouth comes an overflow of the heart."

It is time for you to put the kool aid down. Racist remarks are wrong no matter who makes the comments and the media should have enough integrety to be fair on this issue.

And as far as the GOP driving members away the only thing I have seen in the polls is the GOP making a comeback all over the country. You al will see the GOP picking up seats in the 2010 elections

fools, fooled by obama   May 28th, 2009 10:55 pm ET

john cornyn is another cowering coward in the likes of McCain and Powell.

dave   May 28th, 2009 10:55 pm ET

its called manipulating the masses

Dave   May 28th, 2009 10:55 pm ET

I'll give Senator COrnyn 24 hours before he bends over backwards to apologize to Boss Limbaugh or Cornyn will be villified and his next re-election campaign will be dead in the water because The Bloated Boss will attack attack attack and Senator Cornyn will be the hated vermion that Limbaugh really is...The Boss never forgets...

dave   May 28th, 2009 10:54 pm ET

its misdirection... rush and newt say crazy things and the "moderates" decry it.... its all a plan to trick people back to the right... they dont care about anyone but themselves and power... trust me

Mitchell from MS   May 28th, 2009 10:54 pm ET

To all the liberal sheep here in this spin zone, she did make a racist comment that if the comment came from a republican the GOP canadite would have been torn to shreds in the media. I do not know what is in this womans heart but a great book has pointed out "Out of the mouth comes an overflow of the heart."

It is time for you to put the kool aid down. Racist remarks are wrong no matter who makes the comments and the media should have enough integrety to be fair on this issue.

And as far as the GOP driving members away the only thing I have seen in the polls is the GOP making a comeback all over the country.

JR   May 28th, 2009 10:54 pm ET

The article fails to mention that Newt published his talking point while he was visiting Auschwitz. His lack of intellectual depth is astounding.

Amy   May 28th, 2009 10:54 pm ET

Cornyn is RIGHT!!!!! Rush and Newt can say what they want but have no say when the Senate votes.

nick   May 28th, 2009 10:53 pm ET

For those of you struggling with misinformation, put her statement in its proper context which was, specifically, racial and sexual discrimination cases. I think perhaps someone who has lived a lifetime of dealing with those issues might have a more comprehensive and personal understanding of them, and not just an opinion from the theoretical perspective of old, white men.

bill   May 28th, 2009 10:53 pm ET

The end of time is here ....... the apocalypse.

A top Republican has criticized New Gingrich and Lortab Limbaugh.

The end of time is near .......

Don   May 28th, 2009 10:52 pm ET

I never thought these words would come out of my mouth..."Thank you Senator Cornyn, I agree with you 100%!"

It is refreshing to see a Republican speak for himself with true intelligence and logic.

the rector   May 28th, 2009 10:51 pm ET

I hate to say this, but these two a#@ h^&%s do have a point. If W were to have nominated that guy that Dickey shot in the face, he could never have said " I'm a rich white guy so I am smarter than poor brown people." The press, very correctly, would have castigated the guy. I'm a poor white guy and I don't appreciate anyone disparaging me or people like me if they are not one of us. You can say what you like about your own family and friends, but don't act better than people you don't know, it's, well, stupid. So logically if you put your race in a superior position to another then it is, well, racist. This nomination is a forgone conclusion and I'm not particularly bothered by this jurist, that said she is kind of stupid and a little racist, but she'll fit right in with this administration.

Greg   May 28th, 2009 10:51 pm ET

Nice comment Senator. I just hope they don't make you apologize tomorrow.

reader   May 28th, 2009 10:51 pm ET

Gingrich is either stupid or disingenuous, and while I've usually found him bloody-minded and condescending, I didn't usually think it pointed to stupidity. Anyone who takes her quote to indicate racism, is only listening to their own preconceptions and knee-jerk reactions, and not to the point she was really making.

"I would hope that a wise [person who doesn't fit the stereotype of someone who usually holds this position of authority], with the richness of her experiences, would more often than not reach a better conclusion than a [person who has what amounts to a sense of entitlement to the position] who hasn't lived that life."

vDanTX   May 28th, 2009 10:50 pm ET

One kind of racist can make up lies and use them to justify business loan refusal . Another kind can only complain of what the liar is doing by forgiving the loans to his friends.

nick   May 28th, 2009 10:49 pm ET

How long until he goes groveling for forgiveness?

Jeff Spangler, Arlington, VA   May 28th, 2009 10:49 pm ET

Would it have been more acceptable and less sensational to have said the Her Honor has "explicitly stated that her cultural and sexual experience makes her a better arbiter of certain constitutional cases than white males"? This is a Hunter S. Thompson theory of "Gonzo Judicature" holding that you are not qualified to write or judge anything (like the Hell's Angels or discrimination) without firsthand experience of having lived that same experience. This is a bogus theory in journalism and law.

MIke   May 28th, 2009 10:48 pm ET

The sad part is that the Republican response gives the appearance of credibility to ttwo individuals who have little if any significance on this country except among a tiny group of wackos

usualone   May 28th, 2009 10:47 pm ET

Aaah, a sensible Republican. Hope others surface if we want to continue a two-party system.

GOP is DOA   May 28th, 2009 10:47 pm ET

Cornyn will be on the radio show tomorrow to kiss Boss Limbaugh's ring and beg forgiveness.

James, Ho. TX   May 28th, 2009 10:46 pm ET

John Cornyn sees the writing on the Wall ! Judge Sotomayor background is reflected by 17 years of B.S. experienced on the Bench! Whites trying to do Whites .

Robin Bray   May 28th, 2009 10:46 pm ET

I guess Rush and Newt have never heard the phrase "Walk a mile in my shoes". That is what was being said and these two are not smart enough to figure this out. IIt is ironic that these two white men prove her correct in her statement.

Kate   May 28th, 2009 10:46 pm ET

Thank you for recoginzing the pure hatred from Rush, and Newt. Let her have her day in court before we judge her too quickly. Samuel Alioto also made similar comments about racial discrimination his family had received and how it shaped his views as well. Where was Rush then????

Richard L   May 28th, 2009 10:46 pm ET

If Sen. Cornyn has heard from Rush yet, he may be working on his apology to Rush and his explanation that his comments were the result of temporary insanity.

nurma   May 28th, 2009 10:45 pm ET

As a Democrat I say let Rush blab all he wants, the many is crazy and is taking his party down. If I were a respectable Republican from the old GOP I would be so embarrassed and would be pleading with my party to shut that man up. The people I have had the misfortune of having conversations with who actually listen to this man are some of the most uneducated, paranoid folks I've ever met. Are these "better" Americans? I guess it takes all kinds.

educated   May 28th, 2009 10:45 pm ET

Mature respectful conservatives. This is what the party was meant to be. Some readers may want to take note. Hate gets republicans where their power went... Oblivion.

thetruthisoutthere   May 28th, 2009 10:44 pm ET

It's sad to know that Senator Cornyn will now be attacked by the loudmouths of the far-right.. If there were more Republicans with his kind of insight, there would be a lot more civil give and take in our government – this fosters a respecful atmosphere which enables Congress to do their job in a manner which is beneficial to all of us. Unfortunately, ever since the November election, the shrill tantrums from the far right have only increased. It seems as if these loudmouths want to become an even smaller minority with their tactics.

SR   May 28th, 2009 10:44 pm ET

Well, at least one Republican is living in the reality-based community. But watch. He'll probably be apologizing to Boss Limbaugh soon.

MLP   May 28th, 2009 10:42 pm ET

Wow, some glimpse of sanity in the Repubican party? A breath of fresh air from the right....

Enough Said!!!!   May 28th, 2009 10:40 pm ET

Cornyn on Thursday said statements calling Sotomayor a racist are 'terrible.'You are soooo right Sir !!!!

Ted Tartaglia   May 28th, 2009 10:40 pm ET

Good for Cornyn! At least he has sense enough to stop digging when the hole is getting too deep to crawl out of. The Idiots Limboob and the Lizard are just making fools of themselves. Isn't it great to watch the RepubliCONs fight among themselves.

George   May 28th, 2009 10:40 pm ET

What ?!?!?!? A Republican who actually want's a swing voter to listen to what they have to say .......

erik   May 28th, 2009 10:39 pm ET

Good, good... Need to see more of this..

Seemingly moderate tones taken by seemingly rational republicans, criticizing the whack-job, right-wing mouth-pieces... This will help to split the gop further, which is, of course, good for the country. They don't call them ditto-heads for nothing.

AP in Illinois   May 28th, 2009 10:38 pm ET

The party of fear hasn't had an honest conversation with Americans since the Eisenhower administration.

Not one day goes by that the Republican party doesn't try to scare us into their point of view.

Danny Corrigan   May 28th, 2009 10:38 pm ET

Okay, I'll admit that at first I really thought Rush and Newt were trying to HELP the GOP get back in power but this is getting a little obvious. These guys have got to be political double agents. Soros is paying these guys a bounty for every Republican these guys run out of the party and at this point he's got to be getting nervous. He's losing ground on the Richest Person in the World list every time those two open their mouths.
I just wonder if they get a bonus for a big fish like Powell.

drahcir61 - Atlanta, GA   May 28th, 2009 10:38 pm ET

Limbaugh and Gingrich are clowns! Read the WORDS from Sotomayor's comment.

Sotomayor said, "I would **HOPE** that a wise Latina woman ... would more often than not reach a better conclusion than a white male who hasn't lived that life."

She didn't say a Latina woman WOULD, she said "hope". That is a huge misinterpretation by the clowns trying to invoke the typical GOP/Religious Right/Anti-American scare tactics.

Jeff   May 28th, 2009 10:35 pm ET

Let these guys keep talking, especially Limbaugh. They are helping the democratic party as much as anyone and they're not even smart enough to figure it out. Some people just don't know when to close their mouth.

Michael   May 28th, 2009 10:35 pm ET

He will be apologizing to Rush before you know it.

The GOP is a joke : )

S M R   May 28th, 2009 10:35 pm ET

Dig a hole GOP, dig a hole

mj   May 28th, 2009 10:34 pm ET

Better apologize John. Everyone else has.

Bob   May 28th, 2009 10:34 pm ET

Her comment was an absolute 100% stereotype and racist at its roots. To deny this is to deny a simple fact.

Is she a racist? I can't say. But that comment was racist by definition.

Clearly racism is a one-way street. People only get upset when someone in a position of power makes a racist comment about someone perceived to be in a disadvantaged position. Nobody gets upset when it is done the other direction. Example: Nobody protested the movie "White men can't jump." despite the fact that the title was clearly racist.

HOWARD   May 28th, 2009 10:31 pm ET

THE ONLY THE GOP CAN DO IF THEY ARE REGAIN ANY CREDIBILITY IS TO CUT RUSH LIMBOUGH LOOSE OPENLY AND VERY PUBLICALY

OTHERWISE THAY WILL FIND THEMSELVES "ARRAINGING DECK CHAIRS ON THE TITANIC"

I VOTED DEMOCRATIC BUT STILL NEED A RATIONAL 2 PARTY SYSTEM.

Matt   May 28th, 2009 10:30 pm ET

Our laws have always been dictated by background. It was only relatively recently that women were deemed sane enough to vote. This is Sociology 101: our environment shapes our worldviews. Embrace diversity and look forward to fresh perspective in a crusty old institution. It's what America needs right now.

Jose   May 28th, 2009 10:29 pm ET

I think this guy is generally an idiot but he's making good sense here and so I have to give him credit.

cj   May 28th, 2009 10:28 pm ET

Unless her quote was fictitious, how on Earth could she not be regarded as racist? Since I know 95% of those who leave comments for CNN articles are liberal democrats, I'm sure I'll see an explanation, no matter how tortured it is

Carole   May 28th, 2009 10:28 pm ET

A possible future dem like Specter. Rushbutt does not get it, nor does Gingrich. The country has moved on.......people are more worried about putting food on the table than what color or sexual persuasion their neighbors are.

John Sivills   May 28th, 2009 10:27 pm ET

I would dearly love for CNN to report Judge Sotomayor's statement in its entirety and not take it out of context at let the individual judge; rather than trying to create news by fanning the flames.

gina   May 28th, 2009 10:24 pm ET

i think it is sad that the republican party's repesentatives are going on
cnn and fox and telling out right lies on sonia sotomayor...when the public are not fools and we will do our fact checks....and to see the miss truths about racism and say she was apart of the hispanic kkk was just sad...they want to ruin her completely....i am now a independent.....i am ashamed of the republican party, and they just lost a member...not that they care, they will kick you out if you dont agree with them....
to me that is taking away my freedom of speach...

thank you
gina

Eugene   May 28th, 2009 10:24 pm ET

Good for Cornyn to finally slap down lies.

Fitz in Texas   May 28th, 2009 10:23 pm ET

Sen. Cornyn, you don't have to be an elected Republican official to have an opinion or facts.

Newt Gingrich is right on with.................."Imagine a judicial nominee said 'my experience as a white man makes me better than a latina woman.' new racism is no better than old racism...................

Joe Terrogano   May 28th, 2009 10:23 pm ET

Republicans, psst, Sen. John Cornyn is a leader not a pudgy goof ball or has been. More like this, less like the others and you might regain some respect and relevance.

JT   May 28th, 2009 10:22 pm ET

The Irony – Cornyn ax-backward calling Limbaugh and Gingrich racists.

He forgot to add: himself, Tom Tancredo, Pat Buchanan, Mitt Romney, Huckabee, Glenn Beck, and Senator Sessions.

Paul Robeson   May 28th, 2009 10:22 pm ET

To the GOP (and all affiliates):

I strongly urge you to read her ENTIRE speech and look at the WHOLE qoute. It amazes me how Conservatives will pull a few lines from an entire speech and attempt (poorly I might add) to paint a person as a racist. Amazing.

To add, I guess you feel your buddies Glen Beck, Sean Hannity, and Limbo are covering the story by cherry picking pieces from her speech. Sounds like the same old Rev. Wright 'hatemonger sermon' approach. Wow.

In 2009 the straw man will NOT WORK...we are too smart.

No Incumbents 2010   May 28th, 2009 10:20 pm ET

"Neither one of these men are elected Republican officials. I just don't think it’s appropriate. I certainly don't endorse it. I think it’s wrong," he said.
Yet they are private citizens and therefore have the right to freedom of speech. At least until the fairness doctrine gets passed.

Elections have consequences   May 28th, 2009 10:20 pm ET

Cornyn is very partisan but even he has his limits. Why? Because Cornyn realizes the electoral damage that will be done. When Repugs mistreat Sotomayor by calling her a racist without even knowing her, they are making it impossible to recruit Hispanics to the GOP. Unlike Limbaugh and Newt, Cornyn is a lawyer and a former judge so he knows what he is talking about. Cornyn cares about winning general elections, unlike Rush or Newt.

kd   May 28th, 2009 10:18 pm ET

Gingrich and Limbaugh: two pathetic, ethically-challenged (to say the least), old white men throwing foolish and idiotic words out.

So what else is new.

Meet the new GOP, same as the old GOP

gl, Pittsburgh   May 28th, 2009 10:17 pm ET

Llike I say the republicans are going to drive some of their own party away.

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