WASHINGTON (CNN) - President Barack Obama said Tuesday that he is "95 percent cured" of his smoking habit, "but there are times I mess up."
Obama said "that as a former smoker, I constantly struggle with it. ... Have I fallen off the wagon? Yes."
Obama noted he is not a daily smoker and "doesn't do it in front of" his children.
The president argued that a new law providing for FDA regulation of tobacco "is not about me. It's about the next generation of kids coming up."
The president made his remarks during a news conference at the White House.
From CNN Politics
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I didn't like the cigar thing with Clinton and do not like the smoking with Obama, what example does that set?
Hypocrite.
I applaud his honesty. As a former smoker, I know how difficult it can be to quit for good. We need to try to prevent young people from starting this horrible habit.
"The president argued that a new law providing for FDA regulation of tobacco 'is not about me. It's about the next generation of kids coming up.'"
If only he took this same approach with the policies he passed (is trying to pass) we'd be in business!!! Keep on racking up that debt!
It's funny...I'm paying social security to support the older generation now, and when I'm older, I'll be paying some type of social security to pay the younger generation! I can't lose!
It happens to everyone Mr. President. Sometimes Nicorette just doesn't cut it.
I hope the President continues to smoke. He can help pay for healthcare reform.
Translated.................Obama wants to push non-smoking on everyone else while he puffs away.
That's no suprise, he does a lot of things in private that he wouldn't want anyone to know about.
Interesting how the press covered this up during the primaries and general election.
Wow, Obama still smoking.
I didn't see that coming!
Next you'll be telling me that the Brooklyn Bridge is not for sale.
Lead by example as Father and President.
Now if the leader of the free world, dealing with all he has to deal with, is able to bring down his smoking under a cigarette a day, then anyone else should be able to quit.
Could there be a more stressful job than president of the united states??
Woa, hold the presses!! Who cares? He needs to smoke a little more and show support for all the programs cigarettes are funding. Government would fall apart if they lost all that tax revenue collected from cigarettes. We all know cigarettes kill, if we choose to smoke that is our choice. We don't need the government to control that too. Why not just ban cigarettes?
It wasn't easy for me to give up smoking a long time ago, but I'm glad I did. We do not need to look down on him. He has a lot on his mind at the moment. We hope that his daughters will nag him out of it.
However, he is not overweight. Those of us who are blubber tubs (I include myself) cannot look down on him for having a tobacco problem.
If cigarettes cost $100 a pack, cigarette smokers would be breaking into our cars and stealing our stereos to pay for their habit.
Tobacco is the worst drug problem in the US. A couple million Americans die from tobacco every year. A half million die from alcohol. About 20,000 die from heroin. No one has ever died from marijuana. We would be better off outlawing tobacco and alcohol while legalizing maryjane.
Even our president can't break the habit. Isn't this a poster for tobacco reform? If I had his job, it wouldn't be tobacco in that paper.
Do as I say, not as I do.
But as with all Democrats, he didn't inhale.....
Actually – it's about GOVERNMENT becoming a nanny-state, Craddle to grave control.
i am 36 years old. have smoked for a portion of that, now i smoke 1 cigarette a day, after dinner and i am ok with that.
No, really, is there ANYONE on the planet more deserving of a cigarette?
I say that as a non-smoker.
I can appreciate what he's going thru.
I had my first cigarette 40 years ago and have been trying to quit ever since. I'm a nicotine addict. If anyone has any doubts about nicotine being an addictive drug, they need to talk to me.
I think when I started smoking cigs were around $0.39/pack. When they went to $5.60 at my corner store I decided enough was enough. Not to mention the fact that I was getting severe chest pains when I smoked.
I agree with the President on the kids. It's so much better if they never start!
I guess we can allow the Prez to enjoy a smoke once in awhile. That's nothing compared to that alcoholic brain dead fool we had for the past eight years.
What an absolutely dumb question. I hate cigarettes but really.
Not crack, right?
So – typical of CNN shallowness, this is the top rated story.
No wonder you're going down in ratings.
Yes, okay...so he admitted it. Now watch the naysayers jump on this subject.
I wish the GOPers would find something else to do besides criticize this president. Yes, we know you don't like him, so go away. Shooo.
Doesn't he suspect that everyone can smell that he is a smoker, even his children.
Why does anyone care if Obama smokes? As a Republican who values freedom, I could care less if he smokes. Smoking is legal. He has a right in a free society to smoke if he wants. I would never vote for Obama as president. I think he's hopelessly naive and getting some big lessons in reality right now with Iran. But good grief, leave the man alone and let him make his personal choices.
It is awesome that he can admit this. A president who is honest about his flaws??? So refreshing!
At least he isn't drunk and picking fights with other countries like ole Dunya.
I have tons of times, get up and try again.
as a former smoker, i feel great sympathy towards pres. obama. i "quit" about 100 times before i really quit. best of luck. it is a tough habit to break.
Obama is a JOKE!
Dirty smoker! Impeach! Impeach! lol
Really.. I'm falling off the wagon as I speak
I'm also struggling w/this problem and am hanging in there with you, Mr. President. New law re FDA regulation of tobacco products is long overdue and thank you! Great press conference and answers; I love your restating "I am the President" to your critics in a timely manner. You are my esteemed President and I'll be here for you in 2012.
You know, this may sound incredulous but no journalist has ever asked Barack Obama is he ever smoked ..Marijuana...not one question. Talk about a fair and balanced coverage
I am sure he bums them from his wealthy friends because we sure can't afford to buy them anymore. Another freedom lost to Obama and the thieves. (No middle class tax increases, B.S)
OMG give him a break! I quit over 2 years ago and thankfully I had the support of my family and friends and not the constant harassment President Obama is getting. Is it a bad habit, yes. Is it annoying and stinky, yes. Is it harmful to his health, yes, but last time I checked he's an adult and can make those decisions for himself.
I quit smoking successfully with Chantix after 40 years of smoking. What's his problem?
Hey, it's a tough habit to break. I'd probably smoke more if I had his job.
Has the US fallen off the wagon?
Yes.
That's ok Mr. President.....you are only human!
A lot of people smoke you guys. He is not the first or last smoker. He can still want better for the future children even if isn't able to completely quit. Seriously most of the people judging him are smokers themselves! Ridiculous. Grow up. I am not a smoker. I loathe those things (cigarettes) and honestly most smokers too. However, I do not judge them and I avoid places where it is tolerated. I love that Florida restaurants don't tolerate smoke. Makes me happy. Keep working hard Mr. President.
Yes...and based on his performance and slow reaction to world events he seems to have fallen on his head. So, any REAL news today or have our journalists fallen off the wagon too?
I've been known to roll one myself. At least he ain't drunk on the job like Bush.
Hypocrisy at it's best. I'm a non-smoker too.
Why is this newsworthy? Who cares? I see no evidence that it effects the job he's doing or his judgement like alcohol or drugs. I think it's incredible that he "falls off the wagon" only 5% of the time, considering the pressure he's under!
Wow CNN top of your priority list, the Prez. occasionally smokes, this was most important to you, not Iran issues, or health care issues, but our President of the United States of American(who is human I might add) still smokes, what are we going to do., how will this look to the world, Oh Lord help us.
Been there done that with falling off the wagon. I had been smoke free for 3 years and I had a cigarette a few weeks aqo after an incredibly stressfull week. I tasted like crap.
I love the fact that he is so real. It's not easy to stop and I am very surprised he isn't smoking more with this new position!
I applaud Mr. Obama for his candour and honesty in admitting his addiction to tobacco, and even more for his trying so hard, doing the hardest job in the world, to stop smoking.
Now I have something more to tell my doctor about how hard it is for some smokers, like Mr. Obama and me, to quit!
OMG, is it time to panic yet?
Seriously, if it's true that cigarette smokers are being relegated to second-class citizen status by means of a coordinated effort of societal ostracism, then PC thuggery and mindless conformity have indeed become the mindset of the flock. May your nanny State advocates do the demanding work of society's dictates, and see if the job ever gets done. Is your nose really so vile America, that you would hack it off to spite your own face?
95% CURED? What are we talking about here?
So, this is not news...come on you Rep., where there smoke theres
fire....LOL
Not news.
With all the mess you gotta clean up Mr. President you can even have an occational blunt.
Hopefully the press can get to more "relavent" things now....
As an ex-smoker, I can tell you that you don't fall off the tobacco wagon. Its a nasty, smelly habit, so Its either you do it or you don't. Not the we expect the progressive media to actually make an honest observation of their agenda minded one.
George W. Bush used to use Cocaine.
As a smoker who has tried numerous times to quit it is probably one of the hardest challenges a person can face.
I give him credit for trying and cutting down as he has. He will no doubt succeed but if he doesn't, so what?
the republicans are right!
he isn't perfect.
is it too late to change my vote?
No biggy...everyone has their foibles:
Obama still has a butt once in a while.
Bush and Cheney tortured people.
/end sarcasm
Notice, he didn't say tobacco.
How pathetic our President doesnt have the will power to quit smoking. Cripes, even Bush was able to ditch his drinking problem. But in typical liberal fashion, he cant control himself so he will take it upon himself to regulate it for the rest of us. Maybe he should leave the tobacco alone, its one industry the Democrats haven't completley destroyed and a great cash cow to keep taxing to fund all their hand out programs.
This guy is a joke. The biggest hypocrite in history. The most over-rated person EVER!!! Man I can't wait for the next election. People, lets stop with these knee jerk reactions to right wingers and left wingers and let's elect someone in the middle.
A President who smokes....what a disgrace. And wonder why we see so many young black males smoking.
"95 percent cured"
What IS he smoking??
Does he smoke menthols?
Mr. Obama Don't do what Mr. Clinton did .. don't switch to CIGARS!!!
At least he's trying. And at least he's woken up. Good going Obama. I hope you can succeed in quitting.
TAKE A "DRAG" AND RELAX!!! Why is anyone even questioning this!!! The Reporter TRIED to be soooooo slick in her questioning and was exposed right away!! Obama is not a dummy!!!
Yeah, Right!
At least Obama's trying to quit smoking, but trying to quit when under the pressure of being President is asking a bit much.
Yes CNN, lets take every single word and/or sentence that President says, make a big deal of it and discuss it like Bible in Church! C'mon, there are so many more "real" stories to report.
Aaaaand, the producers over at Faux News all have priapism over this I'm sure....yawn....
What a terrible time to try quitting this awful habit . . . especially while being President . . . and after this partcular news conference!
Best wishes, Barrack.
At east he doesn't "Choke on a pretzel", pass out, fall and hit his head, and have a big shiner the next day, like closet alcoholic Bush.
Errr uh yes uh I errr uh like to smoke the uh errr uh cigs uh err after a nice uh errr uh burger with uh errr some of that uh yellow stuff er uhh yes uhh err uuhh you know the uh errr uuh spicy kind of uh err uh mustard uh errr uh yes you know.
SO WHAT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Does anyone realize what kind of trouble we're in? I'm suprised the man isn't smoking crystal meth.
let's face it ...black people love menthol cigarettes. 95 % cured means still addicted to nicotine, by the way...
"...is not about me. It's about the next generation of kids coming up."
Yes, but the right wing attack dogs will find some ridiculous excuse to make it about you in the most mendacious manner possible, simply because it is what they do.
What? News flash!!!! Honest Politician? Wow! For so long I thought that was an oxymoron! Good for POTUS, that he was honest with his answer to this gotcha question. With all that's on his plate, I would understand if he was smoking weed!
Jimminy Christmas! Did anyone find out all the ins and outs of Bush? How many "drinks" did he have? How many drinks did his daughters have? Good grief folks? What's next? How many bowel movements does he experience per day, and how many tissue squares he uses to wipe?!!
CNN- this is donkey doo doo.
An addict is never cured. There is no such thing as 95% cured.
Stupid statement, Obo.
CNN POST
It's such a nasty habit. I am so tired of the do as I say not as I do. So what does he do start the day off with exercise and a puff? Never understood people who are so into exercise and then smoke away. What's the point?
You're still a smoker, Obama. You lie to America constantly, but you shouldn't lie to yourself, too.
Do as I say, not as I do. Typical hypocritical behavior from Obama.
Two comments: First, better to fall off this wagon than the fidelity wagon. Second: Now that you've 'fessed up, Mr. President, hang tough - we need you in topflight health as much as you need us to be the same and heed your call to serve.
Godspeed - and willpower - to you!
It's okay. After all, President Bush fell off his bicycle a bunch of times.
Hang in there Prez!
I am just curious, did President Bush get the same question on drinking?. It is refreshing to hear a President admitting weakness in his life than lying!. I know these reporters are not the Presidents but how many of them problem and drinking or smoking like the President but will never be asked or admit it !!!!. Thank you so much Mr. President for your honesty!
weak. Pres can't stop smoking but he wants to change the world?
The President cannot "NOT" quit! He needs to demonstrate that this can be done...must be done. The President should aslo quit calling it a "habit." This is not a habit. It is an addiction and has to be treated like a health problem.
Good luck Mr. President but you above all must quit. So many young people are watching.
I can agree with this, but to go beyond health education and to make tobacco use a moral issue is wrong.
We should make the best information available about the harmful effects of smoking, but we should never never remove a person's right to live the way they want to live. It is supposed to be a free country.
Sooo he smokes cigarettes, big deal. Well, maybe he would feel guitly for him and his lib army stealing money from the lower class that they are supposed to support through insane government taxes but hey the guys a liberal, what would you expect, him to think of being far to others like most republicans?
Tobacco is not that bad, not as bad as what other Democrats in DC prefer to smoke, Hi Marion-lib! lol
Today at the President's press conf., it appeared to me that some of the press core along with some of those in Congress, want the President to do "Bush/Irag" thing. You know, invade Iran because the people were being abused! Most of these inquisitors dissaproved of Bush for his action and now seem to want Pres. Obama to do the same thing in Iran. With the number of troops we have in Irag and Afganistan, perhaps they should get in line to sign on and go to Iran.
Then, the rest of us can single out all the other places that this form of genicide takes place. They'll have a lifetime job.
Now that tobacco has been taxed into the ground can we stop subsidizing tobacco farmers?????????????????????????
Tobacco subsidies from 1995 – 2006 totaled $530 million. I wonder how many people could have gotten health care coverage wtih that money that was spent trying to kill them!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
So much for personal courage and will power. This explains alot about his character at times.
That's good Obama is 95% cured; I am 100% cured (of him).
Maybe he pushed for this tobacco legislation to help him quit.
Ooo, news! Go, America!
Obama promised no more taxes, He lied again.
I wish the President the best in his efforts to kick the smoking habit. He is a great guy and I would love to see him be totally cured of such a nasty habit. God's speed Mr. President.
Kind of like being a little bit pregnant. either your a smoker or your not. Or when a person asks if hes stopped smoking tfor him to respond sure I've stopped at least 20 times today.
He also said that "Once you go down this path, it's something you continually struggle with."
I'm sorry Mr. President, I think you're dead wrong. I quit smoking and for good. I don't give in to the temptation every once in a while. I think that shows weakness. If you really quit, then you should stop completely.
I wish he would just smoke his cigarettes and tell all those anti-smoking jihadists to mind there own business. Good grief, I'm so tired of all the anti-smoking crap.
I'd rather have a smoker than a dry drunk in the White House. Just look what the supposedly "dry" drunk did to America over the last eight years. The drunken fool drove it into a ditch.
This is such a non-story I had to comment.
Who care, really? Smoking is bad and we all know it.
get back to being a President!
Please, can we get past this? He likes to light up once in awhile. WHO CARES!! Smoking is still legal, he meets the age requirements, he has read the warnings. He's an adult that chooses to sometimes smoke. There is WAY too much going on in the world to worry about this pettiness. It's ridiculous.
Well, I can't knock him this time. Obama gave a very real and revealing answer. I respect him for not smoking around his girls. Good luck to him, cause I know I would NEVER give up chocolate.
who cares.. he's got probably the most stressful job on the planet. So what.
The Right-Wingers will run with this ignoring the fact that the last occupant of 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue was a drunken, coke-headed lout!
Smoke 'em if you've got 'em. With a job like that, I think an occassional smoke break is warranted.
Have you noticed that Sen Kennedy never tried to break the alcohol industry?I feel more people have died because of alcohol and its related dangers, such as driving drunk ,than have from drinking. One incident comes to mind many years ago. On Obama's habit. It is a sign of weakness when one says I can't quit. I feel the same about a drinking habit. Weak minded people run our government.
This is not news.
Obama believes the government can do more to stop his kids from smoking then he can. His weakness in his personal life is disappointing to the American people and to his Imam!
I love how he express his struggle which make him human. Can't get better than this as a president.
I thought the question was rude and none of her business. With all that is going on in the world that "reporter" should be fired for wasting an opportunity to ask a valuable question. What was she thinking?
I am sure that President Obama does not blow smoke at his daughters.
I watched him answer this question. What a misleading headline.
A more accurate one would be, "Journalist asks trivial question that misses the main point of the issue."
Yeah, that bill is also about slapping small smoke shops and tobacco companies in the face while taking away an adult's choice to enjoy flavored tobacco.
Thank you, oh mighty great one. Thank you for understanding that I, as a grown, tax paying citizen, am far too stupid to decide what goes into my own body.
That bill was nothing but a big win for Phillip Morris, and a big loss to hookah bars, smoke shops, and small tobacco-related businesses.
Perhaps when he decided to spend this country's kids deep into debt he should have shared a similar sentiment – "it's not about me, it's about the next generation of kids coming up"
Though the smoking thing is most unfortunate, it is just so good to witness a thoroughly normal, refreshingly candid human being as President of the USA.
Having said that, since he is handling just about every other crisis quite masterfully, I am sure the smoking thing will soon be history. Also, only goes to show, conquering self is the greatest challenge of all.
What's the big deal??? The man states that he struggles with this like anyone else who's trying to quit or has quit already. Why do these reporters feel they must belabor the point? He's trying to be a role model for people to quit and they would do anything to catch him lighting up. Quit badgering him about this personal struggle and stick to the important issues of the day.
When the greatest leader in the Free World needs a smoke once in a while, who can blame him? He has a huge job to do. I do not begrudge him a cigarette once in a while. Shoot, I'm a nonsmoker and there are days at my job where I feel I should light up!
WOW!! Is this the only thing you got out of this?? As a former smoker who tried and failed on several occassions, give the guy a break! If you can not come up with something other than this out of the hour long question and answer session you guys need to look for new work!
I've always said: "It's easy to quit smoking...I've done it several times."
The whole law about smoking is about one thing. More taxes.Do you ever wonder if the same people who demand a smoke free booth in a restaurant are the same ones who elect to burn their trash out doors or throw their trash out on the road so they won't soil their ride?
WHO CARES? I'd rather him be a smoker, if he gave up socialism and had some inkling of how to be a president...
Anyone who has tried or quit smoking knows how hard it is to quit. There is no rehab for smokers like Alcohol and drugs. I tried many times and I lashed out and was anxious. The hunger for that cigarette after dinner, first thing in the morning. You can fall off the wagon, just like you can fall off the wagon with drugs or alcohol.
I have to tell you also that most insurance companies will not pay for anything to quit smoking, but it will pay for rehab, go figure.
I like honesty. Something that was lacking for the last 8 years.
Don't worry POTUS, it's totally legal and you are entitled if you so please ! There are worse habbits out there !
Supporter !
It is tough. I recently quit due to all the price increases. (childrens health care is not worth funding with my dime). Goverment priced me out now i deal with the addiction. It's like heroin, I swear!
What a pleasure it is to have a President who admits to being human.
He admists his mistakes and takes responsibility, even admits to giving into the the powers of nicotine.
This is something we would never hear from Bush et al who never admitted to any mistakes or being human and caused this country devastating problems that Obama has to fix and will fix them.
Hail to the Chief!
This is typical of america. Make a big deal out of no-yhing and leave the back door open.
wait a minute are you telling me the president is a human being? wow
95% does not a cure make. You’re either a non-smoker or a smoker, even if only occasionally. You can characterize it any way you want. He’s not cured.
Eureka ... our President is a human being and not proclaiming himself to be perfect. I give him credit for being forthright with the nation and admitting that he is still trying to overcome this.
What a hypocrit! Everyone knows the health effects of smoking, and yet this man can't discipline himself to quit. He wants the American taxpayer to pony up more dollars to pay for his new healthcare plan, featuring PREVENTION as a way of cutting costs, yet he can't prevent his own health problems by giving up cigarettes. Now when he gets lung cancer, or throat cancer, or heart disease, or a stroke, it is again the American taxpayer who will have to foot the bill for his irresponsible behavior.
Yes, model our new health plan after Great Britain – there they will not pay for many procedures, such as heart bypasses, if you are a smoker.
Hey kids! Can you spell h-y-p-o-c-r-i-s-y? Do as the government says, not as I do.
When everyone quits smoking, where will the tax base come from? What will they tax then?
Must only smoke when he drinks.
Nothing wrong with a smoke now and then..I wonder what brand he likes.
So, you make cigarettes only affordable for the super rich like yourself? Makes sense. Well on your way to being a despot. GJ!
Typical, do as I say, not as I do....
Weak...
Watch the haters....hypocrite !!....hypocrite!!!!....they all cried!!!!!
It's not easy, but who said it would be!!!
GO OBAMA !!!!!!!!!!
Time for a reality check people. Time to show some common sense.
You can no longer afford a Cadillac caliber Healthcare system that only covers 5/6's of your citizens.
You need a Single Tier Healthcare system that provides equal service/care and rights to all your citizens.
You need to sacrifice and make concessions. You need to settle for a Chevy caliber Single Tier Healthcare system that covers all American citizens and get rid of the class based multi level tiered system you now have that you can no longer afford and leaves millions without care and coverage.
You need to study our quality and affordable single tier system that we use in Canada and that we take for granted. We realize it's not perfect but it's pretty close to being perfect. You need to realize our system covers every citizen at minimal cost and for less than 10% of GDP while your system is flawed by class and $$$$'s. 15% of GDP and you leave millions behind. Time for a reality check people. Time for CNN to keep them honest. Time to live within your means
Why do we not just make them illegal?
Why not ban the sweet tasting menthol cigs Barry, don't want to tick off the hood?
I don't smoke, but this is brutal for this country to let this happen, what will be next, Steak, Donuts, Cookies, Double cheese pizza's?
You CAN'T legislate ALL stupidity, but once this door is opened, watch for more to come.
This is socialism, look it up, textbook case of where the "gubment" takes something that is legal, but doesn't like it, so they ban part of it?????
Ban it all, why SHOULD anyone be allowed to smoke using their rational?
One and done barry, it will take a decade to clean up your anti-American mess.
Good for our President to admit to the power of nicotine but now that we have tobacco under regulation by the FDA let's move forward and put alcohol (for health controls) under the FDA. They are both drugs, both addictive and both killers.
Not to worry! Once his taxes on tobacco hits he won't be able to afford to smoke!
i would give anything if someone cared in the late 70's and early 80's when i was sneaking smoking.....great step forward to save the future generations from a nasty addiction....as big a step as Nanacy Reagans Just Say NO...I'm so glad my child grew up with schools preaching about how bad drugs and smoking really are....she does neither....and i know the programs had alot to do with it....keep up the good work for their future....
CNN why on your blogs to have add a comment and then hours later change it to Permalink?? We just wasted all our time trying to post comments and you throw them out the window.........how rude!
Well, Obama's not one of my favorite people these days but this is a good bill. If kids only knew what danger smoking causes – they would not do it. As a former smoker myself, I can relate.
As far as popularity goes he is NOT popular with me anymore (although I do want my president to succeed). Until he does something for the 92% black vote he received, I will continue to have my doubts about him and NOTHING will change that!
Wow. You mean the candidate that proposed to the American public that he was in control and can bring a fix to everything cannot even fix his own problem? Boy are we in trouble!
Smoking is an addicitive habit and most smokers know how hard it is to stop. Now imgaine having the world on top of your shoulder and trying to quit. If he only smokes off and on, its ok but the conserviatives will attack him on this to. They will of course say what kind of example is he setting? Well I guess cheating is ok and thats why the the republicans are avoiding Esigns affair and look up to Rush, who been convicted of a crime, to the republicans people like Rush, esign, newt are good examples.
president obama is keeping real and thats why this law will works because of first experinece
Come now guys....he's human! He's allowed to have weak moments as long as it doesn't jeopardize his marriage, he's good to go...
smoke 'em if you got Mr. Prez...
Great! 5 months into his presidency and he's already fallen of the band wagon!
"not a good example"., is there a habit or issue that you have or are you perfect?
Regardless, give it a rest. Many people, if faced with the POTUS' problems would be certified alcoholics by now.
Especially dealing with the idiotic rants of the GOP pee ers, They stain the imagine of an intelligent society and soil their own trousers – frequently
Hey, why doesn't the guy just admit it and say he is addicted to drugs.
I come from a time called BF, which stood for Before Filters, back when Old Golds and Winstons and Pall Malls and Lucky Strikes made these current cigarettes look like sissy stuff.
He should just quit so he can say he is truly "free".
Other than the "95 percent" that was a good answer Mr. President.
Isn't it against the law to smoke in the White House?
let he who is without sin, throw the first stone.....
He's human and he's honest. I like that.
not a good example June 23rd, 2009 1:28 pm ET
I didn't like the cigar thing with Clinton and do not like the smoking with Obama, what example does that set?
___________________
Two completely different subjects. Get a grip.
That's ok Mr. President....you are only human!!
Would someone please tell CNN that this in not "NEW". If you keep putting this garbage on here you will lose so many people, and you will deserve it. Please CNN I like you alot, so please put new that is worthy.
do you drink?
people are such hypocrites thats its sickening....smoking is out of favor now, so everyone speaks out, yet liquor commercials are on tv constantly, wheres the outcry?
somewhere someone is being killed by a drunk driver, wheres your outrage?
The tool can't even quit smoking.
No wonder he is running this country into the ground.
not a good example June 23rd, 2009 1:28 pm ET
I didn't like the cigar thing with Clinton and do not like the smoking with Obama, what example does that set?
About as good of an example as Palin's teenage high school drop out daughter getting pregnant did. Save the faux outrage.
@ not a good example, who said "I didn't like the cigar thing with Clinton and do not like the smoking with Obama, what example does that set?"
Perhaps we should be teaching our children not to view everyone as examples then, eh? Teach them to be their own person and not to idolize or live vicariously through celebrities.
I would venture to bet that very few of us have ever seen Obama smoking. He doesn't smoke in front of his children. The guy is human. Give him a break. If he wants to sneak a cig now and then, that's his business. The world is not going to start smoking because Obama has an occasional smoke.
@ not a good example
But wasn't there someone who DID like the cigar thing with Clinton ?
So what if Pres.Obama smokes. That's a personal thing not a governing issue!
If you're having an occasional cigarrette, you are NOT a "former" smoker, Mr President... you are still a smoker.
What does this matter. He is human with vices like all of the rest of us. I'm more concerned with can he get the job done in the next four years than whether or not he sneaks a cigarette. It is not his job to set a good example for our children. It is our job to do that.
Spark it up, Sparky!!! Have a nice day!
I think it sets a great example. Presidents are only human and I think it is much better when they show that they struggle with the same problems we all deal with. Some presidents have done much worse and would never publicly own up to it. I have never smoked a cigarette in my life, but I can empathize with a man who has an addiction that he is trying to kick, but admits it is a struggle.
Smoking is legal, that is the bottom line. He IS human, and smoking is a hard addiction to overcome.
Mr. President, I truly appreciate your honesty. You should completely quit though.
You have my vote in 2012
Not news.
Wow...he even said at the opening of the answer to this question that he frankly doesn't believe his personal habits reflect why he thinks this bill is important. Coming off smoking is hard and let him have his peace of mind in his decision to stop. I seriously cannot believe this made the ticker when he made so many great points in the press conference.
Ever met a smoker that said I'm quitting tomorrow and it takes them 10 years instead? Oh wait, that's just about every smoker. Now ask that same smoker to quit AND be President. I wont be surprised if he can't quit until after he serves his last term.
How about a ticker about how Obama calls out reporters for repeat questions when their colleagues didn't get the "ticker-esq" response they were looking for? That was hilarious.
I don't like the example he sets that a smoker can chastise those who have unhealthy habits while trying to overhaul health care. Smoking creates huge costs to the health care system.
Smoking a serious concern in our society and Obama like many others started around his mid to late teens. Everyone knows that cigarettes are harmful but this has been the first president in a long time to stand up to the large tobacco companies and tell them they can't market to young children. The tobacco companies for the last fifty years have known they have a deadly product yet they still market it to our children,
While it might not be the nicest habit to have with a president, atleast he acknowledges his short comings and is working his hardest to limit the damage the tobacco monopolies inflict on future generations
Nobody's perfect....
Well didnt Bush fall off the Wagon a few times with his alcohol and drug problem?
No Government funded health care for smokers!! Does anyone know how much this country spends on the increased health care required by smokers? Smokers, including the President, should pay for that out of their own pockets. Why should the rest of us have to pay to keep you healthy enough just so you can keep on killing yourselves?
@not a good example: Cigar with Clinton..I rather have that than the Contra thing the republicans pulled in the 1986.*US figures agreed to facilitate the sale of arms to Iran the subject of an arms embargo, to secure the release of hostages and to fund Nicaraguan contras. I guess republicans are above the law, even the laws here. I guess republicans have a history of being bad examples,law breakers and above the law. Now we know where Bush learned from.
Smoking is not a habit, it's an addiction.
Unless we stop minimizing smokers and treating them like like pariahs, we will never make positive strides in decreasing the number of those addicited to cigarettes.
I don't care if he smokes or not. He's a free man in a free country. I have my poilicy disagreements with him, but I couldn't care less if he smokes or not. It's not his job ot make sure your kids don't smoke.
Well he is a imbecile anyway..who cares if he smokes ??
@ not a good example
It's called being human and having a choice. He's an adult, he shouldn't be blasted for a decision that affects only him. He says he won't do it in front of his children, so we should leave it the hell alone.
One cannot be "95 percent cured". You either smoke, or you don't smoke. As a former smoker who quit years ago, I know all too well how difficult the struggle can be. But 95% cured, please, give me a break!
Mr. President I totally understand about falling off the wagon,sometimes I feel like the wagon ran over me. It's not about how many times we fall off it's that we keep climbing back on.
Once again CNN, reporting the most irrelevant, pointless crap to distract people of real problems. Maybe at the next press conference you can find out if Obama washes his hands after he uses the restroom 100% of the time.
It is a tough addiction to break, I feel bad for the President.
In order to set a good example he really needs to quit. It's interesting that Bush was an alcoholic, Clinton Smoked Marjuana (and cigars), Now Obama smokes cigarettes and apparently experimented with drugs when he was younger. It just goes to show you that these presidents are just human beings like the rest of us.
Does it matter? He runs the county about 10 times better than the last guy!
I believe his grandmother used to smoke (which is not really an excuse, but being exposed to this made him even more vulnerable). He admitted from ever since that "he has fallen off the wagon" so this is nothing new. Kicking the habit is tough I understand but I also know a few people who succeeded years ago and never looked back. For stress relief he shoud try yoga or go hiking in the Blue Ridge, but not without informing Biden, the missis, and the press before disappearing.
Give the guy a break, no it is not good, it does not set a good example but, that is his business.
"Obama fell off the wagon?"
Well, that explains everything. He landed on his head so now we know what is "wrong" with him.
AMERICA going down the tubes with Obama....one puff at a time!
President Teleprompter probably smokes menthol Kools every chance he gets . . . while telling Americans that they cannot smoke.
Do you want this guy in charge of your health care? Wake up, America!
Hey not a good example – I'm glad that you never picked up the nasty habit. I did when I was 12 years old. I am now smoke free, but it was not something that I accomplished overnight, please do not be so critical. At least President Obama is trying to kick the habit and I am sure that he will as long as you give our support and thumbs up. Every smoker realizes that it is not good anyone's health. For those of us who have been able to kick the really bad habit I applaud you.
I want judge him, let he who is without sin be the first to cast his stone. If you over eat and become an obese person, should I say you are a fat slob, NO. It doesn't mean you don't have any decency, it means you have a problem with self-control, when it comes to eating. The same goes for anyone that smokes, doesn't mean they are a bad person, just have a problem with breaking a bad habit of smoking. Nothing to get in a tussle about.
Thank goodness he doesn't smoke in front of his kids. They just have to deal with his bad breath. What about his wife that has to kiss his cigarette tasting mouth-how considerate of him.
He is once again walking the walk and not just talking the talk. He speaks from experience, and does not lie. The GOP hates this about him.
The example of someone facing his weakness and being honest about it. Everyone has weaknesses – the weakest among us are those who pretend that they don't. Get off your high horse – we've had Presidents with bigger issues than this.
Hell, we had one creep who claimed he spoke to God.
@ not a good example
Are you for real? Yes smoking is bad, but trying to quit (which is what this article is about) is a great thing and should be cheered. It is a hard thing to do and most experts will tell you it takes many slip ups before it "takes."
Clinton smoked cigars and liked the ladies, Bush is a recovering alchoholic and also liked the ladies, and Obama is tying to quit smoking. All had/have their vices just as every American does including you!
Why don't you set a good example and try supporting people who are trying to improve themselves instead of beng negative and tearing them down.
Smoking for me but no for thee.
Personally I don't see anything wrong with it the man has the toughest and one of the worst jobs out there, he's human just like the rest of us and everyone has bad habits. This doesn't lower my opinion of him and it helps me realize that he has flaws just like any average person.
Quitting smoking is tough. With the stress of all the issues that President Obama is facing, I am impressed with 95%. As a former smoker, I don't think there could have been a tougher time to quit than during the campaign and during the first term. I admire the fact that he has reached 95% and that he hasn't given up. That sets a terrific example, if you smoke: quit. It's a struggle worth fighting. If you don't smoke DON'T START!
Who cares about him smoking cigarettes are not illeagal. However I would be curious to know what he has to to say about Gov. Sanford disappearing. Maybe he went to the mountains to go smoke in private.
He / she that has no fault, should cast the first stone!! Enough of inneundos. Leave the president alone and lets think about the health care and other monomental issues
What a weak minded individual he is, can't even stop smoking. How can he expect to get the support he needs when all he does is come accross as weak! So is it our tax dollars that buy his cigarette's, of course it is... I'll bet he smokes a sissy cigarette like virginia slims, Kool's, and or Salem. A camel (Cowboy killer) would have him caughing up his fricking lungs.
He's human...like the rest of us.
you had to quit in order to fall of the wagon. just like everything else with him he was never on the wagon to fall off.
Yes, it does set a bad example. However, he is human and strugles with issues just like all of us......
Yes CNN he smokes occasionally something we all knew already.
Obama admits falling off wagon Obama says its a struggle sometimes to not light up Obama doesn't smoke in front of his children Now if this was a real news story you would say things like. Obama likes his cigarettes with a little hash oil
Obama smokes but it's not tobacco Obama and staffers seen doing bongs in the west wing.
People are human and will relapse. We all could set good examples of many things but we don't!! At least he was truthful saying that it is a struggle!!
I guess the same kind obese people set and recovering alcoholics set.
95 Percent cured. Is that like a little bit pregnant? I admire his public stuggle with nicotine addiction and wish him success. I quit in 1998 and it is still the hardest thing that I have done.
Well this doesn't bode well for preventive health care and keeping the cost down....bad example to set.
Correct technique.
So what! He is fighting the habit; has done remarkably well if he doesn't light up on a daily basis; and, obviously has a lot of stress in his position. Does that make him a bad President? Heck no! Now if you want to talk about his policies and programs, that is another story.
@ not a good example,
June 23rd, 2009 1:28 pm ET
"I didn't like the cigar thing with Clinton and do not like the smoking with Obama, what example does that set?"
**************************************************************************
I guess the same kind obese people set and recovering alcoholics set.
Oh wow...Obama struggling with quitting smoking...
...he's...human.
Good for the new law; bad for this quitting smoking non-issue article.
My he gets nasty when anyone is criticial or just not blowing rose petals at him.
Yes Obama, you're wrong, admit it without slamming the person asking the question you obviously didn't like.
His arrogance is growing.
I was a chain smoker for almost thirty years When.I stopped smoking twenty years ago it. was and is the hardest thing that I have ever done. President Obama said it all. DON'T EVER START...
People who say it's easy to quit have never really been addicted.
Nobody's perfect and I certainly don't expect the President to be. Props to Obama for taking the iniative to not only quit smoking, but to admit that he still struggles and for signing the tobacco bill into action.
It sets a great example...
No one is perfect, and we live in a country where we're all free to make our own decisions no matter who we are.
amazing you speak critical of Obama on CNN and your comment gets moderated right out.
Plain and simple – kids smoke because they see people they look up to doing it. That is a fact.
But what should Obama do? Should he lie? The truth is that once you smoke a certain amount, you will always want to smoke in certain situations. You can be smoke free for 5 years, but getting fired, going through a break-up, or enduring any number of similarly stressful situations, will instantly bring your mind back to cigarettes. That is something I was never really told before I started – I thought you can quit and be done with it. Not the case, it stays with you forever.
I for one would rather have an honest president than a perfect one, but I would also like to make sure that kids know that starting smoking is not a joke, and is not something that you can quit in a few years and move past. I'd like complete honesty from Obama about his experience with tobacco. I think that is more valuable than him being forced to lie about his imperfections.
I just hope that most kids can have enough sense to see that Obama accomplished what he has in spite of his smoking and drug use as a young man. There are numerous traits about the man to emulate, and we must focus on those while helping kids avoid smoking and drug use.
@not a good example
How cares about your good example?? If you parent correctly and talk to your children then it doesn't matter if the President smokes. It is not his job to be a good example to your children, it is your job to be a good example to your children.
There's no such thing as 95% cured. If you still smoke... well, you still smoke.
I don't care about Obama's smoking habits. I do care about Obama sitting idly by as a window of opportunity passes him by in Iran. The rookie community organizer is failing on another issue.
Smoking is a bad habit – Obama is human and has flaws that he is working on. The fact that he admits it, is trying to fix it sets a good example if you ask me.
I wish I could tell President Obama my method of quiting smoking. I was once approximately 2 1/2 pack a day smoker. I quit cold turkey and have not "fell off the wagoin at all". I used to think there was no way I would ever quit but then one day it happened and I am still smoke free after 36 years. Good luck Obama.
what example does drinking at a bar for hours and then driving home show(many folks do it and just don't get caught).....not very good.....there are many bad things in this world but we can not remove all of them just because. Otherwise, the FREEDOM that stands with USA is no longer!
Parents are to be the teachers and examples for their own kids....take responsibility for your own...don't expect the world to teach them!!!
is a great role model for children.
The one thing I like about the guy, and he won't even stand up for THAT! Come on, Barack!! Light up! It's your choice as an American. For now...
We seem ot be on our way to making tobacco ILLEGAL, and pot LEGAL!
Hey, Obama. If it's about future kids, does that include the unborn?
I wish the media and the religious right, or whoever is behind it, would just leave smokers alone. People have smoked for centuries. All of a sudden, we have laws, it's a crime, and tobacco companies have no rights. I worry about the precedents set by this, and what might happen to what other industries next. Its not that big a deal. Just stop it, OK? Let people smoke if they want to!
Wish him the best of luck in quitting the habit.
OMG... he is human after all... Can we get off the deity kick now?
Come on, do you think that most kids in American is going to start smoking just because they see the President doing it? If kids want to smoke they will try it because they want to.
Nobody's perfect. Especially when it comes to quitting cigarettes. The ONLY way to quit smoking is just to plain STOP. Dont buy, don't bum smokes, and stay away from Adult beverages for awhile, which entices one to smoke. At least our president is making an effort to quit. Which is the next best thing to kicking the habit totally. Good Luck!
I would bet that over the years, other Presidents smoked and the public didn't know it.
Out of all the things covered at that presser – this is what a journalist feels is newsworthy.
YOU 'JOURNALISTS' ARE PATHETIC.
His Business!!!!!!!!!!
WOW! We have a President that admits he makes mistakes. Will wonders ever cease?
Seriously, the Barack Obama reality show is getting old very quickly. Bill Maher is right.
Well I guess you've never had anything in your life that you struggled with. As as for what example does that set. My parents smoke but I never have. And I know that I had great parents and they told me not to do it. They both eventually stopped but it didn't stop them from giving me a good childhood and raising me with morals. My mother never smoked in front of her parents and barely smoked in front of her children. So stop judging people.
Who gives a crap if he smokes or not....he is screwing us every way possible let him smoke if it helps him sleep at night....
(not a good example) ...so we should have the right to bare arms but not a cigarette? This country is a little too intense; we all need to relax and let others live their lives. If the smoke isn't in my immediate air space, enjoy. Who cares?!
If the president has to choose between putting energy into solving our country's problems or quitting smoking – let him smoke!
I do not understand why everyone is so worried if the President smokes a cigarette or, kills a fly, for all that matters, He is human, at least he is not committing adultry in the oval office area. GIVE HIM A BREAK. Last I checked this was a FREE Country. If you had the stress he has and was a previous smoker you would be smoking a pack a day....
The only example it sets is when people start talking about because as he said he does not smoke in front of his kids/family......... Also I know where he is coming from as i used to smoke daily as well, nonetheless although I was about a pack a week maybe a pack every 2 weeks, but now maybe i will smoke a cig once a month when i am intoxicated and/or heavily stressed. The point of the matter is that he is NOT dependent on cigarettes, he is not thinking about a smoke when he wakes up or when he goes to bed, rather i think he might use it as a pressure release value or sort to say... Now obviously smoking is a bad habit and can lead to many many health issues, but so can over exposure to the ultra-violet light in other words the sun so go figure…. Moderation is the key and plus can we talk about more relevant matters like umm Iran, health care, energy efficiency, or the economy maybe I think all of those issues effect our daily lives more then the amount of 2nd hand smoke our president puts into the atmosphere, and plus I think the amount of good he will and has done over weighs the amount of negative effects of his smoking habit to the general population.
I quit smoking 4 1/2 years ago. I decided that if I smoke one cigarette then I was smoking. There is no such thing as trying to quit smoking. Either you smoke or you don't there is no in between.
Very simple.....;-)
To "not a good example" : Well, what kind of example do the Palins set by promoting abstinence while their teenage daughter parades around pregnant? This is a political party that built itself on demonizing premarital sex and single mothers, but when it happens to one of their own, suddenly their tune changes *for them.*
At least Obama is setting a good example by trying to quit, by acknowledging that it is a problem that human beings including himself struggle with..... rather than set unrealistic expectations for everyone else but make himself an exception like the Republicans do on many issues.
As a former smoker myself I say kudos to Obama and thank you.
Just like the Obama leadership, all a smoke screen.
Please, there has been far worse over the years commited in the White House other than smoking a few cigarettes.
The person who referenced Clinton's cigars...............hello, I think there were a few other indiscretions committed by President Clinton that may have topped the cigars.
Give Pres. Obama a break.................with the stress he is under, I am surprised that cigarettes are all he is smoking!!!
Smoking is not illegal. It's a personal preference.
Do you want your personal preferences outlawed? That will be next if you don't allow others their rights.
OK, now it's time for all the genius Republican "strategists" to attack Obama as a smoker...yep, Republicans hold the lead in having illicit sexual affairs, lying about them and using their influence to break moral and ethical laws...but let's wait about a half day before they condemn Obama as a moral failure because he smokes...wait for it...it's coming
wow, will i ever get posted on this site!!!!!!
I didn't hire Obama to be a symbol of what my children should be. I hired Obama to lead my country and take care of business in my government. What he does in his off hours are entirely his business.
Personally I think he sets a great example of human weakness and human integrety with teanacity he still fights and has publically stated it is a difficult battle he contines to fight.
uhh the cigar thing with Clinton has different meanings.
It sets an example that he's tried to quit, won't smoke in front of his kids, and is worried about the next generation coming up.
Anyone out there, with all the facts and data out there, that says "Well Obama smokes, I guess it's ok" deserves what they get from smoking
@not a good example June 23rd, 2009 1:28 pm ET
I didn't like the cigar thing with Clinton and do not like the smoking with Obama, what example does that set?
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Actually, the tobacco thing with either president does not set a good example, but what Obama is doing is curbing it's use from being used in the future by our children. This president is DOING something about it.
Then there is Bush, who is probably the worst role model to come from a President in more than a generation. So you can complain about little things cuz they come from Dem's or you can use your common sense and see the changes Obama is making for the better of our country. I'll bet I've convinced you of your foolish folly here?
I guess some people think a good example would be McCain starting more wars
@NAGE: A good one to millions of smokers if he's able to quit.
I like his honesty! I don't like cigarette smoking, but I can appreciate his honesty on the issue!
What a waste of a question at an otherwise serious press confernence.
Hey BHO-
Set an example and quit smoking today! Do not mess up your approval ratings. Do something exemplary about the economy and external affairs.
Not a good one, which is essentially what he said. He struggles with it constantly, doesn't do it in front of his children, and supports regulations on it.
who cares. As long as he does not smoke around anyone who does not want to inhale second hand smoke it is not a big deal.
Who cares?! I think it shows he is a human being. Let he who has not sinned cast the first stone.
what a moron !
Please let us know what reporter asked that stupid question of the President. In the light of all that is going on in the world, how could he or she be so shallow? Pathetic!!
Oh thank you CNN for posting this wonderful story about our Cigarette Smoker in Chief. Another adventure in “As Obama Turns”.
But he's human. Once you smoke, it is so hard to give up. Part of me feels it's hypocrisy to hide it from his kids, and part of me says he is doing the right thing (second hand smoke notwithstanding). I haven't smoked for over 10 years... and still want one occasionally.
As a reformed smoker of over five years and one who has quit several times before reaching the 5 year mark, I understand. Some of these Obama bashers had better not throw stones.
You will wait along time for me to moderate this one.
Mr. Obama is not the only president who had fallen off the wagon. The one that has never fallen off the wagon is the liar and coward because they could not admit it. So far, Mr. Obama is one of a few presidents who do not show off the muscle when facing the enemies or unfriendly nations. One who shows off their muscle first when facing the enemies is weak (in their heart). Muscle is the last resource when all efforts have run out. It is 21st century, talking tough or pointing the gun to the head making people obey is uncivilized and outdated.
I agree. This is a terrible example to set . I live my life by a fixed set of fine parameters and I feel that most people should live by these parameters as well. I aslo feel that smoking, whether done constantly and excessively, or merely for ocassional enjoyment, has no place within the parameters I've defined for myself and others and thus has no place in any type of dialogue or imagery amongst the public. Smoking can cause disease. Disease can cause death. Death is something to put off for as long as you can because life is enjoyable.
We all have vices. President Obama is trying to do the right thing. Smoking is a hard thing to stop when you have smoked as many years as he has. He can do it...it will take time. With all the problems he has on his shoulders as President of the United States, it is understandable that he will have an occasional slip. He is a very determined individual, one day he will beat the smoking habit.
Addiction is addiction and if you are addicted to something you struggle with it. I would rather have a President who is honest about his issues and who talks about his struggles than someone who lies and covers them up.
So it's ok to the moderators to imply a sexual aspect clinton's cigar smoking but not ok to imply a drug aspect to Obama's smoking?
not a good example-
So I guess you are perfect.
Barack, NO ONE cares about your smoking. Not a living soul.
What we do care about is that you are now going to screw with health care, and the cap and trade bill.
Stop costing us more money.
You screwed up the economy.
You buried our unemployment.
You are driving us into a debt we will never be able to pay back.
You ruined GM and Chrysler as companies.
You are screwing with the banks.
Why dont you just mess with the abortion and gay rights issues and leave the economy alone.
Stop trying to propose and propagate your socialist agenda.
This IS NOT RUSSIA, and we do not want that way of life.
What does he mean by he was once a smoker? He still is. You can only quit once, otherwise you never did.
carl June 23rd, 2009 3:47 pm ET
I agree. This is a terrible example to set . I live my life by a fixed set of fine parameters and I feel that most people should live by these parameters as well. I aslo feel that smoking, whether done constantly and excessively, or merely for ocassional enjoyment, has no place within the parameters I've defined for myself and others and thus has no place in any type of dialogue or imagery amongst the public. Smoking can cause disease. Disease can cause death. Death is something to put off for as long as you can because life is enjoyable.
______________________________________________________
Carl, as you said those are your parameters. You have no right holding anyone else to them.
what a studpid response..................do as I say not as I do.....................children love that remark.
In stead of where’s Waldo, where’s S.C Governor Mark Sanford? He should be fired or he should resign!!! If you say that’s harsh, try leaving your job for a few days without telling your employer. Bet you he or she won’t say “hey, no big deal, you just needed a few days off”!!!
Wish he was as worried about the debt the next generation is going to inherit as a result of his policies.
Matthew in Dertoit, YOU are delusional.
Don't lie to me. You only quit when your family smells it on you. Been there too many times. Now, get out there and spend another trillion. It will help take the edge off.
CNN, can you find out next if Obama puts his elbows on the table? CNN = Certainly No News.
Why do you fools think you can tell the President how to live his life, but you don't want the govenment telling yu how to live your life. All you nuts on here are hypicrites. RIGHT WING NUT AND FAKE DEMO. ARE HYPICRITES. HE CAN SMOKE IF YOU WANT TO.
Republicans want small govenment like I want a whole in my head.
Well, one good thing is that the thing he smokes is a legal product. Won't have to worry about him proclaiming that he doesn't inhale.
I'm going to invite Mr. Obama over to my house for beer and ciggarettes and we would like the media to leave us alone. Why does he have to be your role model for everyting?
I quite smoking 25 years ago COLD TURKEY !!! It can be done; Obama is a whimp !
People with glass house shouldn't throw stones. To all you Obama haters what is your house made of?