CNN

Larry et al, are typical left-wing idiots!
It was okay for Slick Willie to get his "cigar" puffed on but not okay for Laura Bush to have concerns about an international issue.
Laura Bush is a lady with class..unlike Mz. Obama!
Never heard Laura say she didn't like America.

But the Bush himself – he is not in prison yet, right?

I'm a democrat who like Laura Bush and Nancy Reagan. Don't lump me with those nuts who are posting here.

I wish Laura and George W would just go away.

Laura Bush is the one shining light of the Bush Administration. She understands human rights is not a competition, but her mission.

Wonder what she will work on when W and Cheney are in prison. Can't wait to see them both on trial for ALL THEIR CRIMES against humanity and getting our American Soldiers killed.

Burma has been a violent mess for years. Where was her criticizm under her husband's presidency?

Well, at least she's a republican with actual constructive ideas, instead of the usual 'whine, whine, whine, and criticize Obama' routine.

Stay classy liberals...

Michael Jackson's child abusing father is now looking to get lots of money from the doctor who prescribed Jackson all those Painkillers that led to his cardiac arrest. It's bad enough that scumbag guy was a horrible, abusive father to Michael. Now, he's LOOKING TO CAPITALIZE and take advantage of a bad, sad situation! Sick!!

and don't mind the hatefull dems...they know that now in power are destroying America to the point of no return.....! We respect you Laura Bush.....First lady george w.......

who is this lady? didn't she know that her idiotic hubby messes up the nation and created this mess...every tom dick and harry speaks....idiots...let her cook for her hubby...in hot texas....stupid lady...

Laura what you fail to realize is you are no longer relevant. When you had the chance to speak up and make a difference you kept your mouth shut like the dutiful little stepford wife you are. Nothing you, your husband or cheney says anymore is relevant and nobody cares. We now have a first lady who is using the position as it was intended and is making a difference.

"No I'm right"
"No I'm right"
"No I'm right"
"No I'm right"
"I thought you didn't believe in a definite right or wrong"

Ms. Bush is a classy lady. It still amazes me that the liberals (not Democrats) still blame everything on Mr. Bush. The Democrats have been in charge of Congress for three years now. In six months they have spent more money than in the past 200 years of being a country. Nobody has been able to answer this......Who is going to repay the debt??? EVERYONE is....Obama lied to you.

She is such a class act. All future first lady's should follow her lead. God Bless her!

I must concede that she has a point. America is a beacon of democracy and it should help spread democracy across the globe.

Just a follow-up note to Steven: Your comments are EXACTLY what's wrong with the liberals A$$H*LES in this country. They care about NO ONE except themselves. Innocent people being arrested, punished, tortured and killed all over the world, and your only comeback is "who cares"???? Your fearless leader is cut from the same cloth; he doesn't care about the innocent people in Iran, he just doesn't want to tick off Ahmadinejad so that the Iranian terrorists still show up at his weinie roast on July 4. You people are a bunch of featherweight PANSIES! At least George Bush knew what he believed in and stuck by it! THANK YOU LAURA BUSH FOR CONTINUING TO SHOW THE REST OF THE WORLD THAT THERE ARE STILL FREEDOM-LOVING AMERICANS WHO DO CARE ABOUT THE HELPLESS AND THE DOWN-TRODDEN! Laura Bush makes me PROUD ONCE AGAIN to be an American!

You illiterate posters need to leave Laura Bush alone. She is a lovely, intelligent lady,; something you are all incapable of understanding, along with her kind of compassion.

I'm a democrat, and I very much agree with the former First Lady. I'm glad she's taking a stand and denouncing the atrocities happening in Burma, as well as the issue of child soldiers around the world. I believe it is important to use our influence to help our diplomatic efforts around the world. Unlike most complainers, I generally was alright with Bush. I still didn't like him though, and that's my opinion. I, however, recognize Bush's diplomatic efforts with India in 2002, a fact that most people don't know. I respect Bush for that. I can't say how will be judged. That will only occur many presidencies from now, when we are emotionally disjointed from the previous administration, and I believe that it will be my children who judge Bush.

I understand that many of you are taking this opportunity to bash Obama, like the opportunists you are. Leave the man alone, and let him do his job that he was DEMOCRATICALLY ELECTED to do. And, democrats, stop being so ignorant, and step out of the ivory tower. Obama is not Jesus. He is a man, just like everyone else. I like Obama, don't get me wrong. I know that he is still a politician, just like everyone else in D.C. I have good faith that he'll do the right thing. Republicans, watch and see what his actions do before you criticize or make claims that we're becoming communists. I almost feel like Joseph McCarthy is around somewhere laughing maniacally.

Why didn't she complain about the human rights violations of the Bush Administration. He hired contractors to kill many innocent Iraquis under the guise of protection. He put people in GITMO who had no business being there and violated their rights. He did nothing in Darfur when people who needed help while our military wasted its time in a phony war in Iraq. She is the pot calling the kettle black, and I am astonished that she would make such inane comments when he and her husband led the charge in human rights violations for eight years.

shut up you greedy old bag.

No bread? ..let them eat cake.....another famous woman's limp comment of the world from the elite seat of power

Willy Brown,

Just the opposite, sir.....Many of US Liberals are doing just fine.......But this is not a setting to boast about personal assets, etc....It's sad that so many of you Republicans are filled with hatred, and can't find positives things to say about anyone nor anything......You probably suffer from self-loathing......If per chance there is anyone on this blog who has to run and get to a shelter, I applaud your fortitude and confidence....It takes a special courage to feel that you've something to contribute to life when life seems not to be contributing to you.....I like to view the glass as half filled, it you know what I mean......Long live the King of Pop in hearts of those who love and respect him!

Laura,

We like to help all people in the world who are suffering if we can. Maybe you can fundraise the rich people – because they are getting richer. Meanwhile, our focus should be on the people at home. Of course, everybody would like everybody to be able to take care of themselves ... however, that is not happening. People are losing their jobs. People are losing their homes. People are losing their retirement savings because of the market tumbles. People can't pay for their healthcare bills. Kids graduate from college stuck w/ high debt and can't find a job.

What do you want us to do? Speak out? Do you think it makes a difference? Do you think the United Nations can do anything about it? It's always sad to see human suffering and wishing you can do something about it.

She's one incredible lady.

Stepford wives just keep on ticking...

AND while I am at it::: CNN are constantly going on about the Iran elections! Where were they in 2000, 2002 and 2004 when Bush and Cheney STOLE those elections, in 2002 and 2004 thru FEAR that CNN was complicit in and was cheering them on!! They should also shut up about other countries elections and look at their own instead that they NEVER talk about!! Except PRESIDENT Obama's!

Why did she not speak out when her husband inflicted the agony and killed hundreds of thousands of Iraqi's, women and children included , for just defending their homeland???

She, her husband and Cheney should just shut up and stay out of sight!! The widow's and children of the fallen American soldiers do NOT want to hear from these people!!t

As a first lady, Luara was a class act. A true patriot who always loved and will continue to love her country no matter what..

The very policies of the Bush administration transformed this country into something I do not recognize anymore. The neo con right wing is always so concerned about other countries at the expense of our own. They just don't get that and our country has paid the ultimate price.

Michelle should take lessons from Laura.
Of course, the devotees of CNN will use this as another opportunity to bash her husband, who – with all his faults – was still a fabulous improvement over our current President.

where was this voice of concern during the last 8 years. Maybe she should have spoken up about her husband's abuses taking place right under her nose.

I disliked President Bush, but have always and plan to continue having respect for the former First Lady.

Signed
A Democrat

people on the left are still in their basements-people–Obama has been in charge sine Nov 2008–the country is ruined because of Obama–not Bush–enjoy your "green bills". Enjoy your jobs going overseas where they let them drill and use fuel (oh, I forgot Al Gore still gets to use jet fuel.)

Laura you are a great Lady!

History will think the same about your husband. just give us time!

You know Obama is doing exactly what Bush did! Bush is a great teacher for Obama, just people are not too fast to catch up yet!.

Apparently some, closing in on most, can't read. Where in the article did Mrs Bush say that the US needed to invade Burma? It clearly said that she felt the UN Secretary General needed to press the issue of human rights. I've about had my fill of this "change"....seems the partisan bickering and hatred by the left has only changed to additional hostility.

Laura should be commended for her efforts here. Good for her. I'm sure not doing anything like that with my time. Burmese politics may not currently be relevant to us, but I'm sure the people living there are praying (albeit secretly) for any kind of help, and should it come, it will be relevant to them. No one party has a monopoly on moral high ground. I know that labeling and generalizing is easier than objectivity, but it's just lazy. Has America always been this politically divided? or this nasty about it?

"Never judge a man until you walk two moons in his moccasins".

@donkeyparty so your a tough guy? I wonder if you would really pay money to travel to someones location so they could administer a nice azz whipping to you and then return you to whatever hole in the wall you dwell in and explain to your associates why your so swollen and bruised..
That would be a you tube moment.
Your about the same calibre as those "Wake up America People" and the "We got guns People".
What you have is too much television, too many snacks, too much air conditioning and not enough spine.
We are in historical times watching the demise of america and we are too lazy and cowardly to do anything, but lament and post rhetoric online. We all deserve the fate that awaits us and all cowards, but donkeyparty boy, I do thank you for the laugh.

You know you people are a bunch of jackasses. The woman speaks out and you jump on her for it. Oh as for stealing the election, it was a liberal Supreme Court at the time. One more thing, most of you are cowards. When have you put anything on the line. I forgot you do not do that since you might get hurt. Freaking jerks.

I wish half you people that comment would be put in positions that require a dire need for action and leadership. I have one word Oblivious.

Laura Bush was such a disapointment after Hillary Clinton.

If you want to see the face of the administration that we voted for, the look no farther than the comments, and snide remarks on this headline.

All Laura Bush ever did was to stand around and grin while she was first lady.

Why would anyone think that she had something intelligent to say now?

I never cared much for her husband's policies, but I'm glad Ms. Bush highlighting this issue. It's a travesty that has gone almost unnoticed by the West, and the policies of the junta need to finally be dragged out into the light. Their manipulation of the aid to Burma was just the tip of the iceberg. Well done, Ms. Bush.

Laura has always been my girl. Pres. Bush's biggest mistake was listening to his conservative friends who said control your wife. She was an asset. You notice how Pres. Obama pads himself by keeping his wife in front of us.

well, as a citizen she has the right to speak....but hello, who's listening.

i myself appreciate enlightenment wherever it comes from but, sorry not a priority right now.....

Where have you been, raagos?

Are you kidding?

You are not living in the same world as the rest of us....

Do you NOT recall that President Bush usurped a 30 year Dictator and Tyrant of Iraq who was guilty murder and torture to the citizens of Iraq for years and years? People disappeared in the middle of the night, dragged from their homes and murdered.

Before you make IGNORANT statements like this, get your FACTS STRAIGHT. Obviously you are uneducated and ignorant.

Good for you, Laura! While I never voted for your husband I have always admired you. Keep up the good work.

Laura was a great First Lady, and will be the last good we have for a long time (looking at you Michelle)

""In the past 21 months, the number of political prisoners incarcerated by the junta has doubled," ...

But Obama has been President for only 6 of those 21 months ... where was her own husband and what was he doing? There is a lot of misery in the world – always has been ... but this country is stretched to the limit trying to solve its own challenges ...

Who cares???? I don't care about Laura and I don't care about Burma.

LOL...Hillarious. The leidy never knew about Burma till she had all the power and her husband went on a global war rampage killing thousands. She never even remembered Burma when she went on a spending spree of cosmetic surgeries at tax payer dollars now out of the blue she has all the concern for Burmese. Where was her concern for Americans when her husbands cronies aka the oil barons went on a hiking spree. We did not hear any concern. Leidy your days are over please fade away into oblivion

She probably is mistaking the country for the shaving cream signs of the sixties. In Texas, W thought tort reform had to do with pie. BTW, my america died in the end of 2000 when the country of the people was replced with the country of whom appointed the supreme court justices. Now we're just splitting up what's left of the treasury.

I did have a lot of respect for Laura until Katrina. Her theories of how that tragedy would help the poor were very telling. Does any one else remember the footage of her saying the people at the Astrodome were better off since they were all so poor anyway? That was not my imagination – I watched the coverage.

Oh, please. Go away. Next we'll be going to Mars.

No... wait. We're already still working on that.

Laura Bush is an incredible woman and was an honorable and superb First Lady.
If she expects support from the UN, it will be slow to surface.
The UN is the most ineffective body of International Freedom that ever existed.
The UN should be dissolved and a new organization founded upon the principles of FREEDOM in the WORLD.
The UN is slow to respond, ineffective and corrupt.

What a sad documentary on this organization when situations such as Burma and Iran are allowed to continue such criminal acts against humanity.

If she spoke and her husband did that stop the Burmas from doing what they are doing nope so why not try new ways?

Those who are interested in stopping the abuses in Burma and elsewhere in the world should find another spokesperson for their cause...I mean, Laura Bush actually married George Bush...need I say more?

Well laura now that you have all this spare time why don't you go to Iraq and dig up that 9 billion that went missing. That should do some good in Burma.

When I visited Burma, several local people there told me to bring this message back to the USA: "There are several Al Queda terrorists in our country. Feel free to invade and overthrow our government."
Yes, they actually want this. They would prefer ANYTHING over the oppression they currently face.

to Steven:

"Who cares?"

Ok, tell us what is higher on your list of important things in this world.

Dear Human race,
As you shake your heads in disbelief, please know that what you are reading here is true. We Americans are the most pitiful of the world. Notice how people here speak as if they are giving facts; 911 conspiracies, etc., then there are the selfish people like Steven who feel that since Burma is not on HIS list then to hell with them. That is what happens when your country is full of Reality TV, Porn, and poor education. It is sad but true notice not a single one of these selfish negative posters gave any kind of solution. On the one hand they want the government to do everything for them, and on the other hand they criticize all that the government does. Don’t even get me started on the total disrespect Americans have for people in general let alone elected officials. What a pathetic bunch we Americans… On a broader scope what you are witnessing is the moral decay and decline of the world’s last empire.

Dear world,
As you shake your heads in disbelief, please know that what you are reading here is true. We Americans are the most pitiful of the world. Notice how people here speak as if they are giving facts; 911 conspiracies, etc., then there are the selfish people like Steven who feel that since Burma is not on HIS list then to hell with them. That is what happens when your country is full of Reality TV, Porn, and poor education. It is sad but true notice not a single one of these selfish negative posters gave any kind of solution. On the one hand they want the government to do everything for them, and on the other hand they criticize all that the government does. Don’t even get me started on the total disrespect Americans have for people in general let alone elected officials. What a pathetic bunch we Americans… On a broader scope what you are witnessing is the moral decay and decline of the world’s last empire.

$50 says Obama shows up at Jackson's funeral.

Donkey, donkey, donkey. Just wear your Change and Hope shirt at work and when you asked me if I’d like fries with that I’ll wink with my right eye at you.

Why don't both Laura and W just get on a plane and fly to Burma and tell their government to their face how it should be run, instead of trying to get President Obama to continue the failed foreign policy we had for the last 8 years.

It is nice to know that there are a few Americans who look beyond themselves and truly do care for less fortunate human beings.

We will blame Obama when he actually does anything.. so far he loves the bowling alley, likes to take 4 planes to NY for date night .. tax payers paid that bill.. one day he will actually get to work and do something

I think you all are missing the point on this one. It's not about conservative or liberal or who she's married to or what has transpired. There are people dying in Burma every day. Children and elephants being blown up by landmines along the Thai border. People being put in prison just for expressing the opinions you all so casually throw away. The woman is right to bring our attention to the injustice, not as a republican or wife of a president, but as a member of a global community. I have visited Thailand and seen the brutality and cruelty of the despot junta currently in control of Burma. If you don't think that the plight of suffering humans effects you as an American than by God think like a human for once in your terrible little lives.

As we focus on Iran, let us not forget there are human rights violations around the world. Burma and Southeast Asia and Africa are two examples.

Good for Laura......We had better start doing all we can in these situations......makes a person feel like the end is near ...there is a lot of ignorance in the world and that is what is going to kill us all.

we need to take care of those here at home now,
we can not be going all over the world and not do for the needy of this country

this is a real question from someone who really does not know first hand.. I have friends that live in Canada and they have socialize medical there. I have never lived anywhere but in the U.S so I have never known what it is like but i do know we have thousands that have no insurance and therefore have no health care ( unless you are an illegal) they get health care... but my friends say they are satisfied with their medical there and everyone is covered so please just saying "OH NO SOCIALIZED MEDICINE" what exactly is wrong with it??? the question is for those who hve tried it not fore those who think they know......

I see ACORN is spending their new-found stimulus funds by keeping the low life's still employed as bloggers. The only news I want to read is that some honest person uncovers the illegal alien usurper's "real" birth certificate.

I like Laura Bush, she is a classy woman who always held herself well.

Laura was irrelevant during her time in the white house, and now is even more so. Just go away

You woulen't seriously think that bunch of US bashing thugs and scoundrels in the UN would do anything to alleviate the situation in Burma would you? They embrace some of the worst human rights offenders in the world and protect them, along with the outright criminals among their officials.

And for the record, I think George Bush, for all his mistakes, did far more good for people than you're going to ever see from the arrogant self-serving president we have today.

What do you have to do to get posted here??????

Shut UP and crawl back into your hole with "W"...

This woman never did a damn thing for anyone.

to A Real America-

That is what we need: SOCIALISM.

On Laura Bush:

This woman did nothing for anyone. Since when getting her picture taken with a head towel means I did something?

How many years did this woman work? Librarian? My @ss.

Laura Bush is such a lady. Love her. Also liked George W. When will you idiot liberals get over the fact that the 2000 election was not fixed and Bush had nothing to do with 9/11. Good grief, Instead I would be worried about what Obama has already done to our country. We are doomed, he is destroying us.

seems to me that the U.S has its plate full just trying to handle its own affairs.... we should lend support when it is needed and we are able but....it also appers that the entire Bush family needs to remain home and clean up their own problems. the U.S has had more than enough of the way the bush's hamndle anything much less our government. from George down to Prescott there have been problems after problems fromtreason to out and out lies to the American people... o wish them well they certainly need good wishes and good night Bush family the U.S does not want any more Bush suggestions we have had our fill........

EcoAZ – what exactly delutional world do you live in – W put us in a horrible state and of course he is to blame – incredibly he is married to a lovely woman – and smart as well. Evan a liberal like me can easily recognize that. Come out into the real world and help not hate.

Well Iran, Myanmar, and Iraq just need a strong leader for the people to believe in and actully stand behind, like Washington, William Wallace, or even Joan of Arc. The main opposition leader in Iran, Mousavi, is pushing for change and that is great, but he is too mild in his offensive to do anything but upset the current regime.

For goodness sakes, it is the year 2009! The rest of the world has moved on. Could the delusional "Bush stole the 2000 election" please catch up? While Bush was in one courtroom "stealing" the election, your hero "St." Al Gore was in a different courtroom at the same time trying to steal the election for himself. His thieves just weren't as good, get over it.

@NEUTRALIZER....

WE ALREADY HAVE SOCIALISM IN THIS COUNTRY....AND WAY BEFORE OBAMA TOOK OFFICE....

AND BESIDES....WHO CARES WHAT YOU AND THE REST OF THE HATERS THINK ABOUT PRESIDENT OBAMA.....THE KEY WORD IN THIS SENTENCE IS "PRESIDENT"!!!! I REST MY CASE!!!

HAVE A BLESSED DAY!!!

Why does a woman who was married to that moron and criminal all these years called "classy." She has not had much to say of any importance while standing behind that jerk while smiling. No thanks!

You know, this is truly disgusting. A First Lady speaks out about human rights violations and CNN feels the need to post A hole liberal lemmings who assault the First Lady. Now I know you moderate these posts (mine have been withheld several times) and CNN feels the need to post these obnoxious posts, furthering the divide between the left and the right. The funny thing is, the lefty lemmings feel confident and therefore mouth off (rudely I might add to the right) creating an environment that legitimizes the rights ability to do the same in 8 years or so (when the Repub take back control of Congress/WH). What comes around goes around. And the young lefty 's think they will never lose control of congress/wh. Nice job CNN. Make our political system even more dysfunctional.

Bushco did enough damage to America so it's better if you shut up about everything Laura. Go crawl back into your hole with your husband and Cheney.

@T Mckinley

Jokes on you, we elected him again in 2004. If the moron Dems would have put up someone other than the 2 most idiotic candidates then they may have won.

Now we have to live with this admin shoving Cap & Trade and "Health care for everybody" down our throats with out even knowing how much it will cost or the exact details. The national debt is skyrocketing but they preach fiscal discipline and pay-go as they spend, spend and spend ever more.

Details don't matter to people who can't think for themselves. The Dems know this so they will keep going until the adults wake up and vote them out.

Nov. 2010 can't come fast enough.

I am so distressed by those who say, 'who cares' about horrible crimes against humanity.

is that how you feel about the holocaust as well, because it did not happen in this country? Is the horrible suffering of people who are not Americans somehow less awful?

This should not be a partisan issue. When there is terrible suffering and injustice, people with any humanity whatever should care.

Or as John Donne said, "No man is an island. We are all part of the continent known as mankind."

@Anonymous June 27th, 2009 11:35 am ET
Shut the H_ll Up .........Now take this Bone....Go home wagging your Tail behind you.....RUFF!

OH Laura, we have this stuff going on in this country....open your eyes....lets worry about America and quit spending our taxes in other countries trying to do something that you won't even try here.
Lets worry about the True American Citizens.....when all is great here then we can worry about everyone else....right now we worry about everyone else and not the US Taxpaying Citizens. we get leftovers from other countries...

Ms.Laura....come to the real world...why not find a cause with the guy who's kid is Don't travel to Brazil, someone may want your kid to stay with them and do the same thing to you.....
boycott brazil....and the joke court.

i always knew Laura Bush was a good lady

People don't know of Laura's concern for Burma or anything else, because the media didn't now record her every move and outfit like they do Michelle Obama.
Burma is a serious situation, and I hope the Aung is released. At least the UN and the U.S.should diplomatically bring pressure.
You can criticize Laura Bush, but she is making people think about Burma at least for a moment. A good way to use her celebrity.

And I'm sick of the "stolen election" mantra for 2000. Look, if you can't figure out how to mark your ballot, tough luck! My vote deserves equal protection too, and I would not want some board of elections stooge decide how I "meant" to vote! That violates the 14th amendment, and the Supreme Court was right to stop if, even if it had been Gore winning the election. They had a recount and Bush won Florida. That looking at the ballots with magnifying glasses was unconstitutional in any venue. Again, as a citizen, learn how to mark a ballot, or stay home!

If this woman is so worried about theses people instead of being worried about the many people who are in dires straits in her own country. Why doesn't she just go live over there and really help instead of crying about it from afar. If she would or could wakeup to reality. She would find a few million poor and hungry people right here in her own back yard to help. All this lady is is a publicity hound looking for headlines

T Mckinley....

Then what happened in 2004? Did he steal that one too?

Bush was voted into office twice by the people. Deal with it.

Bush a classy guy? Come on .... where were you the last 8 years as he bumbled through his 8 years in office with constant bloopers and cowboy superficiality? Why is it that Geo. W. Bush is the only member of his family with a Texas twang? He spent no more time here than the rest! ALL over the World he is a JOKE! And someone here calls him classy? Wow... I am overwhelmed with your and his ignorance!

Too Too Bad , she did not care much about the men who were
never tried for crimes and mixed in with the real enemies of
humanity. She turned a blind eye for those tortured at Gitmo!!
She is a good woman tainted by the republicans that think
war and torture are good for society.
I think maybe Sanford and Ensign should try some waterboarding
to stop their extremely strong sex drives and then spewing bible
verses.

I love all these idiots who can do nothing but criticize her because her last name is Bush. Even better are the dopes who say the U.S. should stay out of Burma even though the article clearly states she is urging the United Nations to take more action.

Too bad she doesn't show the same evident concern for Americans as she does for the people of Burma. How many people did her incompetent husband throw on the streets because of his rank mismanagement of the economy? How many grieving families is he responsible for because their sons and daughters were thrown into his illegal war in Iraq? Why doesn't she speak up for the rights of those destroyed by corporate and financial malfeasance in this country? Sorry, Burma is a long ways away and awfully low on the list of things that concern Americans the most. This is not to denigrate her humanitarian impulses, but to show that her priorities are awfully strange. Maybe she can't bear to look at the wreckage her husband left behind. Or maybe she just doesn't see it from her ivory tower.

It's amazing how narrow minded people are, especially Steven (11:52).
For the record, I'm a left-wing progressive who voted for Obama. I applaud Laura Bush for shining more light on this issue. Any list of priorities that puts terrible human rights abuses "on the bottom of the importance scale" is seriously flawed in my opinion. Besides, what Laura Bush is doing is raising awareness, not saying we should focus all our resources on the situation.

Thank you, Mrs. Bush, for speaking clearly and calmly about this
important issue. We all need to respect people of other religions and political beliefs.

Laura Bush never had a voice during her husband's administration! Why should we be concerned now with her opinions? More of the love affair of the Media with the Republican Party line! Political gossip over Substance Political News!

well now that the stepford wife has spoken it all makes sense and there is clarity in everyones life. just go away

What happened to her speaking out about the outrage of Iraq starting with the day her husband INVADED an innocent country and is responsible for the deaths of millions of Iraqis and most of all 4000 precious Americans.

Laura is pure class. She was a voice for human rights the full time she occupied the White House. The radical liberals posting here didn't have time to notice, they were too busy spouting hate and anti-war and anti-American comments for the full eight years.

How sick am I of the Media, CNN included, love affair with the GOP?

More than I can say.... Every article here is about the opinions of the GOP! What happended to the coverage of the Obama administration? They get shoved to back and treated as though they are the work of the minority... NOT the majority that they are! GOP proganda fed by the media is destroying this countries confidence in their leaders as well as the reasons we voted for Barack Obama in the first place! We want his changes.... we voted for them. And I truly resent the scare tactics of the GOP which is fueled by the media!

I pray that Obama and his Democratic Congress work together to give us what we voted for! I am so disheartened by their lack of support! They voted in lock step with the Republicans for Bush's agenda... now they are many still doing the same! Every time I hear that the majority of people are against these changes I want to barf... because I know it is just the opposite! The right is mobilized... those who cannot think for themselves and follow the party line without question! And the media is covering their opinions like they are the voice for all of us. Shame on you, CNN, Shame on YOU!

Aren't there enough problems in the U.S. without us trying to solve the worlds problems?

I cannot believe some of the comments on this topic. "Who cares?" "Let the third world deal with itself". ARE YOU HUMAN BEINGS? My God, these are people that have no voice, and are thrown in jail for the slightest offenses. As Americans, not Democrats or Republicans, but as AMERICANS, we have a responsibility to the people that are being persecuted as we are the supposed champions of democracy. These isolationist ideas have done little for our country-read history. Shame on all of you for making a political point at the expense of real people suffering. Pathetic.

Really, she's now trying to make us believeshe cares when she should have been more concerned and still had the influence to stir things up from the WH as the then first lady. It's all about saving a dwindlining legacy. No Laura, your time is over.

What's the point in putting this in the political ticker? Just to see how many morons take the opportunity to complain about Bush?

It's a shame that Laura Bush was so quiet when she was First Lady, she probably had many ideas that trumped her husbands and were never heard.

@ EcoAz:

You're in need of a good rehab and a little formal education. You are the personification of ignorance.

Willie Brown and Anonymous: What the heck is your problem? Contrary to what old Lush Limpbrain spouts, we liberals actually work at responsible jobs, pay taxes and support our troops. It is people like you that helped torpedo the GOP in the last election. That crap you people spout or regurgitate from Rushiepoo turned off quite a few voters. Just keep up the brain-dead, no ideas blabbing and you WILL ensure that President Obama serves a full 8 years. I for one thank you and your henchmen. By-the-by, why don't you get a job or are you busy sitting at your computer guzzling beer between listening to Rush, Sean and pleasuring yourself with by Annie Coulter's voice? If you don't have any solutions to present or any useful comments, why not shut off your computer to save power. America will thank you.

IMPEACH OBAMA NOW.

As much as I despised Bush and feel he ruined this great nation's reputation on the world stage while decimating our economy with his insane spending, I always thought his wife was a class act and often wondered how such a nice lady ended up married to such a.....um....person.

And the liberals here at CNN are still celebrating their hatred.

I bet they cheered when Private Long was murdered.

Go back to texas.

People on here are amazing. I only read the comments to see what yahoos can complain about Laura's statement. You did not disappoint.

Please Laura Bush GO AWAY.
Guaranteed- the majority of Americans are glad that the nightmare of
Bush' es in the White House is over. America is trying to re-build itself, from the ruination caused by the last 8 years of Bush rule.
The last thing we want to read about, is anything with the Bush name on it.

Laura, Laura and your husband saved life. His record is worst that those Junta; over 1 million Iraqi dead and injured. Close to 5000 dead American and over 30000 injured. Where was your voice when you slept every night with a man with blood on his hands? Ever thought of those mothers and children in Iraq and the terror the faced and still face because of your husband and his Boss? And do not forget he aided the massacre of Palestinian refugees in Jenin and encouraged and provided both financial and moral support for the Feast of Lights in Gaza. I do not see the moral equivalence all of this. What a paradox? It is like the kettle calling the pot black. Save me from all your rambling last and go back to Texas and hide in some library.

It appears some people are so addicted to hate they are unable to stay on topic. The subject is "Laura Bush speaks out on Burma" not her husband and not Obama and his wife. All presidents' spouses have and will continue to do charities and speak out on good causes. Most of the negative comments can be applied to all the past and present presidents' spouses.

Burma is the model Obama is striving for , you know Ameribuma. Cap and trade , Health care for all paid for by few , the best part is all union members will not be taxed. Of course all libs quickly forget that the the congress has been controlled by them for the last three years. What a joke wake up America , stop socialism and send ten bucks in support of Burma in Laura's name

I respect Laura but it is hard to understand why this was not a concern when her incompetent husband was in charge. Right wingers are clueless about anything more than 3 feet away from them. Iran is the perfect example-Obama has played it perfectly. If it was up to the right wingers, we would have further ruined any chance to make peace with them in order to look like a bully once again.

Love the right wingers who come on here and complain about liberal hate. You guys started all this the day Clinton was elected president and you have perfected it ever since. Liberals are the ones who think of the possibilities–all the gray between the black and the white. You should try it sometime.

And for the Willy Browns of the world who come on each blog and post the same inane spew with no ideas on how to fix anything-what do you do to make this world a better place??

So putting two people in jail is a human rights violation, but her husband's actions, who caused about 100,000+ deaths, in Iraq is not?

What a shame!! Laura Bush talks about human rights. Wasn't she living in the white House for the last eight years

Wish she would have spoken out earlier. Playing Stepford wife for 8 years and then suddenly becoming a citizen of the world is a bit hard to buy.

@EcoAZ:

"And by the way, this country owes George W. Bush a huge apology."

For what, exactly? He owes crippled combat vets those Halliburton billions. Start paying up NOW!

I'm amazed that people can find fault with Mrs. Bush for calling on the UN to stop brutal repression in a country where people are jailed for disagreeing with the dictatorship.

What is wrong with the left side of this country??

"hey laura, ask bush what really happened 9/11???" lol seriously

Of course, even if its for a good cause you all still do what liberals do and just degrate people that have different views from yours instead of actually sitting down and having a rational discussion.

Oh and to the people who were saying who cares about 3rd world countries?? You should cuz at the rate that Obama is spending money and if that stupid bill passes in the senate, which it better not, America will be well on its way becoming a 3rd world country itself.

Read up on what the PRESENT Government is doing or planning to do... We might still have a chance to save this country. Its not too late, yet..

Haz America politically corrected the world yet, or are we still trying?

Gad, we're having so much success...! LOL!

This women has some nerve. She should be looking at her husband and what his crimes againts humanity before she looks somewhere else. A modern day Eva Braun.

So tell me Mrs George W. Bush....

What did YOUR president do to help your cause?? Don't you think President Obama (My President) has enough on his plate right now without out you starting to harp on him. You should have done your mouthing while your worthless husband was in the white house..OH, maybe he was as worthless to you as he was to the rest of us...

JJ – History has already proved that Bush is a stupid Patriot.
EcoAz – The country owes Bush an apology the way the Murrah building owes Tim McVeigh an apology.
Anonymous – I'm surprised you don't call them Freedom Fries -
By the way of the two sponsors of the Freedom Fry Bill – one – Nye – is in jail for corruption and the other Walter Jones is fighting an heroic battle against adult-onset mental retardation.

Maybe Obama and his kool aide drinkers can fly on Pelosi's air force jet and go apologize to Burma and the magic fairy will make everything better again.
Where did such a large amount of ignorance come from all of a sudden. Obama promises to spread the wealth and ACORN voters come crawling out of the woodwork. History will show that Obama and his ilk will make the 60's seem tame when totaling up the damage he and his administration are doing to this country. How can you push not one, but two huge bills through congress that will bankrupt this country, without those who voted for them, having read them. Unbelieveable! And there are many on this board who support it. Tilt the cup and SWALLOW. Progressives my butt.

Ken,
Must HAVE.....not must "of". Perhaps you missed English class as well.

As usual, the ditto-head republicans feel the need to leave their oversimplified, stereotypical and grossly unoriginal comments here. Echoing the same Right-wing-nut commentators to the likes of Limbaugh, Beck, Coulter and Hannity. Hey Republicans, quit crying! You guys got us into this mess, now shutup and let the educated people figure out how to fix it.

"Former First Lady Laura Bush — who has kept a low profile since her husband's administration came to an end..." What do you mean SINCE? She was one of the most "low profile" First Ladies we have ever had. I rarely ever saw anything of her during the 8 years of her husband's administration. For all we know, she spent the better part of those 8 years sitting in the rose garden tossing back cosmos!

Well.. Now that she is not in the White House suddenly she cares about people in Burma..? How come she didn't say more when she was there meanwhile her husband was sending thousands of our young soliders to defend a war that was made of deception and greed? For her to have been married to a mediocre individual as her husband is.. tells me a lot about her.
How come when she was in the White House didn't use her situation to do more for homeless people in this country..? Do you know why? Because her husband is controlling and a macho Texas joke.. look how walks and in the way he does will tell you a lot about his personality. Also.. have you ever seen holding his wife's hand or offering her his arm when coming down from Air Force 1?
Both they deserve each other but the sad part is that people that can't see beyond the tip of their noses elected the individual, next to a parasite as Cheney is, and the country is as how it is now. And on top of that.. these so called "conservatives" who say that believe in the rule of God.. are hypocrites who cheat their wives but they are expert pointing fingers at others.

I'm a democrat and not at all fond of the previous administration. I've never had anything against Laura Bush, though, except to wonder what on earth made her marry, and stay with, someone so far beneath her intellectual and moral code level. Even now, she, at least is concerned about real things and still working toward the betterment of human conditions in the world, and not wasting her time just dissing the current administration. Kudos!

Laura Bush is as out of touch as her dithering and irrelevant husband.

Leave it to CNN to go out and get the old right wingers to tell us now how we should operate. Where was all the action when they were in office? Let's get John King to do another good right wing interview with Dick Cheney again. That is always good for a couple of day's news for Blitzer and crowd. Maybe we should have the "Family Values" crowd tell us again how bad those left leaning godless Liberals are and how they hate our country. Bill Bennett, where are you when we need you?

Let's take care of America first.Our problem seems to be that we take care of overyone but our own.

@T Mckinley

boo-hoo, poor baby. Like it was said before, grow up and move on. Bush won both times and your guy lost both times. Stop acting like a cry baby. Of course, then again, liberalism is all about being cry babies as you never stop complaining about anything even when you have all the votes to get anything you want done. Again, democrats need to stop whining about being poor, because they vote for people who spend their money and tax them more, and take more of their money away. So, apparently, democrats don't mind being poor. I for one will never, EVER, feel sorry for someone who is poor and votes for a Democrat.

Good for you, Laura. While her husband was an unmitigated disaster as President, that really isn't her fault. She seems like a bright, decent woman and the situation in Burma DOES warrant our attention. God knows what's happening in Burma diserves more coverage than the unfortunate but ultimately meaningless death of Michael Jackson.

Are you referring to "our people" meaning "our military" protecting the United States?

-------------

mark Owens June 27th, 2009 11:23 am ET

Where was Laura when the U.S. was committing human rights violations against the people of Iraq?!?!?!?!?!

@T Mckinley

dude, get over the 2000 election thing.......................

you need to move on............you will never be happy if you dont just let it go..................

What about the 2008 election being bought, will you ever knock that half breed and all those crooks for that...............no

you are part of the problem the usa faces today

You dumbacrats are so stupid. Laura Bush is speaking out against human rights violations/oppression, and you're making it sound like she is doing something bad.

How much more stupid can your party get?

Grow up for a "change" already.

This isn't about GWB or the Republicans. I'm glad Laura Bush is using her spotlight to bring attention to an international crisis.

I'm a big bad liberal writing from San Francisco; but you know, if we can't step beyond our culturally ordained (superficial) boundaries to see things for what they really are from time to time, we're all doomed.

Kudos, Laura. We should all be advocating for the immediate and unconditional release of Aung San Suu Kyi, but many of you have probably never even heard of her before, even AFTER reading this article. Sad.

So how many of you are aware of the Bill that was passed on to the Senate last night???

While CNN and the other media outlets have been focusing on the death of a celebrity among other things, they failed to inform you about the Climate Cap and Trade bill that was voted on YESTERDAY!!!

Dont you find it a little odd that one of the most important bills in 100 years wasnt brought to all of your attention? There is a reason for that. CNN and others play to the liberal agenda of this administration. I swear to you, if you knew what was in this bill and how it will affect you, youd be shocked. Dont expect to hear about it on CNN.

Laura Bush should just stay QUIET. She was admired, respected for her demeanor for all the years of the "Shrubs" reign. Now she should retain her dignity and enjoy Her life and keep our kindest thoughts by remaining a private woman and not stirring up annoyance with her – what the hell does she know about Burma or??? Makes you think she's just looking for a new book deal to make $$$.

A mentor for me from young adulthood was a woman named Madeleine L'Engle Franklin. She who wrote books such as a Wrinkled in Time and a Wind in The Door which talk about finding the good in everyone.

So yes, I'll be a Democrat that says there is good (such as this) in the Bushes, and yes there is good in every Republican, no matter how misguided or outright deceitful.

I believe that these days we are so judgmental as individuals and societies that we can't even see the truth, such as this woman's honest concern for human rights, even when her compassion is so clearly set forward.

@JJ in New York – only if conservatives get to write it. However, we still have it all on tape, so that's where the proof will ultimately lie.

Personally, Mrs. Bush is a class act (though her choice of husband escapes me). And Burma is only the tip of the iceburg. There's a lot of abuse (female and male) that needs to be stopped worldwide.

@ coffee time – assume much?

If she really cared about those people and their country, she would learn to call it Myanmar, It hasn't been called Burma for decades.
This sort of thing exemplifies the stupid american foreign policy we've put behind us thankfully. Lets leave Laura back in the annals of bad history.

Donkey Party,

You name a time and place.

I'm with "sensible Cape Coral" ... There are many terrible situations around the world like that of Suu Kyi. No, Americans can't save everyone, but this is one where Americans can speak out and make a difference ... especially people like Laura Bush.

What is the big deal about being an American if all we stand for in the world is being narcissistic, lazy, & materialistic. The only thing that makes us any different from any other nation is that we stand for values in the world that are enduring, though sometimes it is hard to see that.

Sometimes we become so self-absorbed that we forget that we are the nation that others who are oppressed and without freedom look to.

Laura, you go girl! We need you (but tell your husband we've heard enough from him.)

Laura Bush is in the same league with her husband-that's why she attracted him. She was, and has always been a shallow soriority girl who loves being rich. Both Bushes need to keep quiet and let our country heal.

@TCM.why dont YOU try finding a real job instead of spending 24/7 on this site,using 50 names to spew your hate.I love to hear you cry though.hahaha

About 2/3 of the period of house arrest was on her husband's watch. Sorry. Too little,too late.

Is Laura Bush for real????!!!! She did pratically nothing but give a speech here or there or read books to children for 8 years to come out and say anything. Her biggest crowning is the constant defending and making excuses for her husband.

When I got to make exuses for any person I know I am in trouble and they are all wrong.

I feel for anyone of any country that is in hardship, pain and suffering. It is all sad, BUT, look around these United States! Maybe if your hubby had put more into his own country during the 8 years he was in office, we would not be in the shape we are. Maybe if all that money had been kept here to help the millions of Americans so in need, so many here would not be suffering. Makes me both angry and sick.

I think Laura Bush is pretty and genuine.

Unlike Sugarskirt Palin.

Maybe McCain should have chosen her.

Human rights are an issue close to my heart also. Thank you for speaking out Mrs. Bush and thank you for not making this political. I respect that very much.

Laura Bush has done a great job in bringing the Burma situation to our attention and hope to see more of her in the future. Speaking out on key issues and presenting us with solutions or hope. Thank you Laura as the Burma situation is a real human disgrace and will pray for them. God Bless.

Many of the comments on here have nothing to do with the article; as seems more and more common lately. Mrs. Bush, as a private citizen, albeit with more name recognition, has written an op-ed piece asking the UN to do something about Burma. That pretty much sums up the situation so why all the "you liberals" and "the repubs" talk?

For you right- and left-wingers, die-hard democrats and republicans – here's a news flash! Most of us (about 40-50% of us) don't belong to either of your parties and don't WANT TO. We are middle of the road moderate independents and think you both have serious problems (personally I tend to vote 3rd party and am still waiting and hoping for a viable national better choice than either of you!!)

Your two groups are way too quick to immediately accuse others of being one-of-them if we don't agree with you on all issues. Get over it! I didn't like Bush, do like her, don't think we need to be in Myanmar (or Iran or Iraq) but she's not asking for that, so let it go!!

Good for Laura Bush. She is a lady of class and conviction; funny how in love and marriage opposites attract.

Tell us about your drunk driving and manslaughter charges..... oh no? Then shut the hell up.

My feelings for her husband notwithstanding, I appreciate Mrs. Bush's public appeal on behalf of Myanmar (Burma). I hope her voice added to the chorus of calling for the release of Aung San Suu Kyi and the listing of oppression in that country will make a difference.

I'm sorry, but those still whining about stolen elections in 2000, just take a look at Iran and our country.

It obviously meant so much to you that Gore lost that you did two things: jack and **** about it.

Things could not have been much worse (if at all) if Gore was in charge, but some of these comments are simply CNN pandering to the crazies so that people can read.

Well mission accomplished. I read the crazy comments, and here I am commenting on one; actually thinking someone will get it. I guess that counts as crazy, right?

Typical Democrat reply. No idea of the issues just a whole lot of foul, hot air. Sadly Laura Bush knows more than the two amateurs trying to run foreign affairs in the White House – the confused, ever apologetic Barack Obama and amateur Clinton. They truly lived up to their criticism – absolutely no idea of what they are doing.

T McKinley: As I said before, the 2000 election tantrums need to cease, and Left Wing bashers need to grow up and move on. BTW the 2000 election was very close, but legitimate. Enough.

By the way, Laura Bush has done WAY more with her life than you complainers have...unless of course bitching on blogs counts as an accomplishment.

To "Real American":

You're absolutely right. Democrats (especially the 'progressive' ones) seem to be by far the most vile, hateful, self-righteous, spiteful, petty, immature and stupid of the people who post. I feel sorry for them in that their lives must be a constant state of liberal angst, wringing their hands and wondering who they will chastise next.

Another of their characteristics is their belief that ALL things Republican are evil, and ALL things Democrat are Right, based on Truth and Virtue. They'll be the last to admit (if they ever do) that their beloved leaders aren't doing any better job than Republicans (if even that good a job). While the rest of the country begins to wake up to the fact that Obama is just another guy (and probably trying to cram too much down the country's throat at a single time), they'll continue to act like Obama Groupies...but as they look around they'll realize they're more and more alone.

As for Laura, she's simply raising awareness of an issue she's been involved with. She's not advocating going in with F-16s; she's simply wanting to keep the focus on an issue of importance to her (and others).

Some of you need to let go of your hatred and find other ways to energize yourselves. Grow up.

She has been concerned about women's rights for many years.

On the other hand we got a tax increase with the dark of night vote on the climate bill. Will be glad when he focuses on jobs and the economy!

I am truly sorry Laura but.... WHO CARES!!! Seriously, Burma is at the bottom of my list on the importance scale. This woman is a nut, but then she was married to that moron for all these years.

Its too bad that she is connected to that complete Duffuss of a husband..
I can’t imagine what she has had to endure all these years....

Good ol' CNN – home of the tattooed & body-pierced comment posters who still believe the world would be peachy-keen if only Saddam, Uday and Qusay were back in their rightful place, that 9/11 was somehow our fault and that all the world's evil can be distilled down to four words: Bush, Cheney, Halliburton and neocon. Humorous and pathetic at the same time.

@EcoAz

The 2000 election was stolen.

It is George W. Bush, and his boss Dick Cheney, who owe this country an apology. These two, along with their illegitimate administration, never should have been in the white house to begin with.

It would be nice to hear from a Democrat who isn't trying to blame George Bush for something.

It's nice to hear from a Republican who isn't trying to blame President Obama for something.

I'm sorry to say that my first thoughts concerning Burma's problems can be summed in two words...who cares. Leave these third world nations to themselves.

You wouldn't know a REAL AMERICAN if you tripped over one lying on the sidewalk outside your office; where more and more REAL AMERICANs are because of the disaster created by the last eight years of the previous administration.

Never had a problem with Laura, especially after I heard she was a source of fun at college. She one of us and doesn't pretend not to be.

History will prove that Bush was a patriot !

Where was she during the 8 years that her buffoon of a husband was in power??? I'm tired of these right-wingers trying to make a statement to imply they still maintain some moral high ground.

Thanks Laura,many people arent aware of the things that happen in the world unless its in their tiny little town of Bugtussle.It makes my day to hear and see the rightwing radical republicans crying and knashing their teeth on here everyday.hahaha.Its a shame your husband was controlled by Cheney and big oil.

I love you liberals. Work all week making French fries so you can spend time in a public library ranting online about other peoples actions with out even doing any research. Hurry the shelter is almost full for the evening.

Laura Bush is the epitome of class, what a great first lady!

Mrs. Bush is a class act and always has been. To bad her husband did not learn from her.

i must of missed all the work she did for burma when her incompetent husband was president. i must of also missed all the work she allegedly did for the women of afghanistan. i didn't miss her pretty much staying in the background with that smile on her face for 8 agonizing years.

what a joke. what about the bush regime's brutality in Iraq and Gitmo?

Mrs bush has a good point but we should let the UN fund any interference in Burma. Also # 2's comments sound like typical liberals blather. Wonder what he is trying to say?

As usual someone really has a point about a real issue and all the nutters can do is call names. Our country is being destroyed before our eyes and that's the best you can do? An old saying is......it's all over til the crying.......get ready for it because there's a lot of crying headed our way.

I think the Bushes should move to Burma and streighten that mess out!
I'm sure that they will be well recieved......

Finally a voice of reason. When Laura speaks, people listen. Now only is she a smart dame, but a funny one with a good sense of humor, as evidenced on talks shows.

Bravo,she has my respect on this one even if her husband was a Vietnam coward.

I was unaware of Laura Bush's efforts in Burma. Unfortunately, she was overshadowed by her incompetent husband as he ruined the world.

Good for Laura.

Where was Laura when the U.S. was committing human rights violations against the people of Iraq?!?!?!?!?!

Hey, you gotta give it to Laura because she is a classy woman.

Even Bush, despite being a total failure, was still a classy guy.

Laura, before going off a a continous tangent; Ask G.W. to come clean about 9/11 !

Why don't you send some of the millions that your husband made on the Iraq war over to help them.

That's all you're going to get. This country has bled enough on useless wars.

Good for the former first lady..... And I am pleased to see that there is really more in the news besides MJ..... Come on CNN give it a break three days into MJ's death? There has got to be more going on in the world of news. Don't get me wrong, The guy was a legend for sure. And I really apprecoate what he has done in his life. But can we move on just a step or two? Three days worth is quite enough. People are having to pick through your site just to find another story. The guy was a true superstar grant it but really enough is enough. Do I have to change my home page to find out whats going on in the world besides MJ?

Solution; free the Burma prisoners and replace them with GWB.

Let's see how many hateful comments come from this story.... my guess is hundreds, if CNN doesn't close comments early! Gotta love the so-called "progressive" left.... the only thing that continues to "progress" is the amount of blame and vile they continue to pile onto the Bush family and those that disagree with them!

Bush is NOTHING compared to Obama in destroying this country. Obama and the DEMOCRAPS are moving this country towards socialism. They've just pass another tax increase across the board – global warming crap! Take off the blinders, you'll see better, what's going on in this country.

Laura has done more for human rights with this one statement than Hillary has done since January. After all, in the administration's eyes, there are more important things than human rights, as Hillary has stated.

Mrs. Bush is a wonderful person, and I am sick to death of hostile liberal screamers constantly accusing Mr. Bush of destroying this country. It's time the 2000 election tantrums cease. Left wingers need to grow up and move on.

And by the way, this country owes George W. Bush a huge apology.

I hated her husband but Laura is one classy woman.

here we go again...the repubs thinking we ought to jump in an save the world at america's cost. the UN needs to step up and fight for human rights and let america take care of america. funny how the GOP never thinks in terms of WE HAVE NO MONEY unless it is to show-dog in war games.

I remember bush didn't fo nothing to stop killing ........why now are u playing politic..the new face of GOP