CNN

Finally Powell Steps Up!!! He supported bama and gave the reason "Because of his views on the Economy". Well here is your CHANGE Colin!! Obama is a Disaster and Out of Contrrol

NO COUNTRY in the World, including U.S.A. should have a President, who was a Former Soldier.

When you have Military Man as your Country's Leader, he will always Fight. A Military Man always has a Fighting Mind and always thinks about War, not Peace.

Saddam and Hitler were former Military Men. All Counties which have Military Governments Like General Musharaf of Pakistan, will never progress.

We respect and are proud of our Soldiers, but we don't want them to be the Heads of Our Government.

Maybe he shouldn't have pretended to be a Republican while he was voting for Obama solely because he was black. Quite frankly, Powell should follow the path taken by Specter and just join the Democratic or Socialist Party of America and than he could drink the Obama Kool-aid and he wouldn't be worried anymore.

I understand Powel's concerns but the problem is when he and his men where screwing this country up they did not do it one at a time the were able to do in all together, and didn't he know it was going to cost money to fix it?
An by the way where do these rich people know about the problems facing 95% of the middle class in America.
I wish CNN will invite normally struggling Americans no they programs then we can have a concrete debate.

Hmm, be careful what you wish for you just might get it?
Powell you asked for this. You voted with your heart, you voted for change, you voted for history. Powell you were pulled into the onslaught of media coverage on everyone's senses. This is what we get when we do not ask the hard questions, or question a mans record.
Forget everything that the talk radio tries to tell you about Obama, but ask yourself what has this man really accomplished? The answer is very little.
Ask the hard questions. And watch this man give a double edged answer. Never does he (Or Pelosi) give an absolute answer.

I think Mr. Powell is right to sound a warning, but it is also refreshing to see such a prominent Republican not running around in "Chicken Little" mode.

Mr. Obama – it might be wise to at least listen to Mr. Powell.

Powell endorsed a man for President who he has no shared political ideals with. What did he think would happen? I think Powell needs to step out of the political spotlight for a while. He really is losing whatever credibility he had left. There is no doubt he has a lot to offer society, but politics is no longer his arena.

How dare someone question the great one and his policies. Why should anyone be concerned about the unprecedented amount of money were spending that we don't have? Its pure ludicrous. And we all know that the recession was nothing but the former president's fault. I mean he was the president that allowed, wait made it law that companies like Freddy Mac and Leman Brothers were made to and allowed to give mortgages to lower class families who couldn't afford them? Also the republicans were the one that were heading those two companies right?

I'm no republican and I'm no democrat but to blame the collapse of our economy only on George W. Bush and the Republicans borders on crazy. It was a collective effort by a bunch of useless tools who couldn't spot a problem if it hit them in the face. Queen Nancy was as much to blame as savant Bush....

To Chris, listen you little Rush, W, Cheney zombie, your boy W had everything fall into his lap. An election was handed to him in 2000 by SCOTUS (that's Supreme Court of the U.S. you ignoramus). He inherited a budget surplus, and was handed an incredible opportunity in 9/11. He was the original golden child. He took all this incredible luck and along with his conservative cohorts and the radical right took this country down the path on which we are on now. Let see now W led us into fighting the wrong war. We should have gone after the Saudi hijackersd in Saudi Arabia. We should have gone after Bin Laden in Afghanistan. Your reference to his so called tax cuts (mainly for the rich) led us to the greatest financial crisis since the Great depression. Him and his Republican buddies spent like drunken sailors. And if you remember he was leading the charge to privatize Social Security and tie it to the stock market. So stop listening to Rush, Beck, Hannity and Cheney and wake up to the facts as to why we are where we are. I would suggest you look at a documentary by CNBC called "House of Cards" and you will learn the truth.

Wouldn't an ideal solution be to have a free-market, capitalist society WITH some level of government overview to ensure that corruption and carelessness is kept to a minimum? I'd be fine with a government that doesn't interfere with business directly, but rather punishes those companies and individuals who break the rules.

God forbid liberals actually have to work hard to earn what they get.

Andy good luck with your revolution. How many people are you going to storm the Capital building with? One?

As a Democrat, Collin Powell's concerns should be taken with a pound of consideration. He didn't attack the President or the Democrats. President Obama needs someone, with some credibiility, questioning his policies. There is no reason to attach Collin Powell.

The GOP has no credibility, their a political joke.

...and you just now figured this out, Colin? Duh. Maybe if you focused more on what Obama said (and his political record of what he'd already done) during his campaign instead of being so excited by the color of his skin you would have heard him clearly telling us all that he planned to play the part of a National Robbin' Hood. There's nothing new here. It's the typical approach: throw around billions of dollars and "Change" from the taxpayers to give to the bottomless-pit of already-bloated, inept and power-seeking bureacrats and their broken system of broken promises. You wanted change? You got lots of it–from my husband's teacher's salary pockets into the governments. Congrats.

Colin Powell is a Republican....Of course he will be concerned with President Obama's democratic agenda......This is "news"? LOL!!!! Wow!! CNN must be desperate......

Powell should have been President in 2000.

Bush did nothing the last 8 years and it is time to correct all of his mistakes and go where the Republicans wouldn't go...............................I say go big or go home..........................

Under what rock was Colin Powell and the rest of the "moderates" that endorsed Obama hiding during "the one's" campaign?
They didn't hear this man stating his wish list of policies, programs and direction for our courts???????????????

Obama and his DEM leaders are SELF-SERVING, RECKLESS IRRESPONSIBLE EGOTISTS.
This is the more like Putin in Russia than the frequently compared mezzianic oracle.

Well, duh

Sorry, Secretary Powell, but you have let this country down in a major way by not speaking out before this.

Now the question is: What do we do about it?

Andy – you are TRULY scary! The constitution enumerates the power that Gov has, and it basically details that Gov has LIMITED powers (you know, because our Founding Fathers didn't want to be ruled by a monarchy, a Gov which could do whatever it wanted, whenever it wanted to its people)! If you don't like the way our system of Gov is set up, then you are FREE to leave this country, but to change our constitution to give our Gov unlimited powers is ridiculously stupid – Gov is not the solution to our problems, Gov IS the problem!

How dare someone question the great one and his policies. Why should anyone be concerned about the unprecedented amount of money were spending that we don't have? Its pure ludicrous. And we all know that the recession was nothing but the former president's fault. I mean he was the president that allowed, wait made it law that companies like Freddy Mac and Leman Brothers were made to and allowed to give mortgages to lower class families who couldn't afford them? Also the republicans were the one that were heading those two companies right?

I'm no republican and I'm no democrat but to blame the collapse of our economy only on George W. Bush and the Republicans borders on crazy. It was a collective effort by a bunch of useless tools who couldn't spot a problem if it hit them in the face. Queen Nancy was as much to blame as savant Bush.

So CNN...

How come he's a great american soldier when he agrees with Maobama and the former bush aide when expresses concern?

Either way he's an opportunistic former soldier and a niave politcian..

3-4 years from now when things are full steam ahead all the nay saying people who want him to fail will be eating crow.

Powell's a sad figure – he betrayed his republican colleagues and was effectively cast out by the party as a result. Let's face it, he was as gung ho on knocking out Saddam (who clearly deserved it). Then Powell sold his name to the opposition, who used him like a prostitiute. Now he is discarded by the Democrats like any useless tool. Nowhere man.

Looks like someone wants Rush and Dick to like him again.

Andy: Boy are you in the wrong country. Get your passport together and GO.

Someone wrote that we need to give Obama "time" to "fix" the problems – well, that's great, but his approach will actually CAUSE more problems. They complained that Bush did nothing to decrease our dependence on foreign oil – well, Obama isn't doing anything better because what we NEED is to DRILL more in our OWN country, to research and develop oil from shale, to develop MORE nuclear plants, as well as solar, wind, etc. See, Obama is beholden to the environmentalists, so all he'll do is solar and wind, which will do NOTHING to help decrease our dependence on foreign oil. Also, as far as health care, he needs to listen to the doctors and the patients and NOT the drug companies and insurance companies (which he is currently doing), so any health care reform will only benefit pharmaceutical companies and insurance companies. You see folks, it's not that it's "Reps vs Dems" it's that Obama's policies are just as bad, if not worse than Bush's (Bush was NOT a true conservative, he was basically a Dem lite)!

Mr Powell

Get outside the beltway and see the economic conditions in the rest of the country–we are not protected. There is a need for more stimulus not less. Have you thought that government spending inside the beltway might be mitigating the worst of the downturn in your neighborhood?

if powell and he republicans would help Obama get the job done as the last 2 administrations did NOT maybe I could elieve him a little but he is just anothr big mouth with no action in my opinion..shut up or put up is my opinion

Obabam took oave 24 hurs after Bush. Paulso and the other guy said we sould be dead if we did not agree to put several rillion in thier hands to clean up their mess..

remember we are spending a biooion dollars a week for 84 monthsnow what have we got for that money>

NOT MUCHecept about 5000 ead military 50 thousand wonded military.

Republican Party is Done, Gone, Finished.
Filibuster for us. The Duds and Incompetent have been Eliminated.
Freedom has Come to America.
We no more have Idiots Running our Country.
We have no more Criminals in White House.

Too Late Colin!

We tried to tell you this before you supported the rookie!

We as Americans don't get it . When our President says it out loud that
the stimulus Package will work . Thats because this Great American
Country can only survive , if we really listen BUY AMERICAN . GOD
BLESS AMERICA .......

Arthur M. Solis, perhaps you would be happy if all black people were easy to control and keep in line. If they all did what you want them to do, like little slaves, instead of holding their own opinions that aren't based simply on race. I'll tell you something, I have known plenty of black people who joined the NRA in the early 1990s because they believed in gun rights. They also were fully aware that some know-it-alls would misinterpret their joining to mean they supported every action of the NRA past, present and future but that simply was not the case. Get to know black people (or people of any color) before you go making assumptions about why they do what they do.

I agree we need government to be more effective in problem solving, and President Obama is putting forth great effort to address our issues. His ability to multi-task was one of the reasons many Americans voted for him.

I also agree to do away with the purported slogans, particularly from the GOP. Republican so-called "limited government" is simply a marketing strategy, but in reality, it's unfortunately another hypocritical fallacy for the GOP.

It never fails to suprise me how stupid most Amaericans are. Everything wrong is Bush's fault even though individual responsibility has no say. The housing market crashed because my fellow stupid Americans want more than they can afford and that's Bush's fault. Get more stuff with more credit cards and when we can't pay our bills just go banrupt and start all over, Bush's fault not the stupid Amaerican. Bush just as Obama doesn't check the National checkbook in their back packet. If the Dems and Obama didn't want to spend as the past administration did they could have voted it down since the Dems had the majority. Individual financial responsibiltiy got us in this mess, more so than Bush and Obama's big spending big Government is just going to compound the problem.

I read all the comment of how much "8 years of W destroyed/ruined this country.

What did he destroy or make so awful?

Our current recession was not caused by the Bush Admin.

Iraq, was the Bush Admin's ball game, and even if you completely disagree with our going in, you can argue the counter point of why we went.

High healthcare costs mainly stem from illegals immigrants, frivolous laws suits, and Medicaid/care, which was not a Bush policy.

W wasn't my favorite either, but he wasn't that bad.

waiting for all of you to become more concerned. You voted for him, idiots

Fad: Attacks on the character of Colin Powell are completely unwarranted. No matter which "side" (only an idiot takes "sides" in America) you're on, Colin Powell has ALWAYS been an honorable and focused individual I would have been proud to support to public office.

I concur with an earlier poster...had Colin Powell been v.p. nominee with McCain, McCain would have sailed into the White House.

We Need a Three Fourth Majority in the House and Senate.

We Need To Throw The Republicans Out.

We Need to Amend the US Constitution on the Following Aspects:

1. A President cannot Mislead the Country into War.
2. No Torture.
3. Regulated Banking and Mortgage Lending.
4. Affordable Health Care by the Government for all.
5. Equal rights for Gays.
6. We need Strict Laws to curb Corruption, Extortion, Fraud by Insurance Companies.
7. Capitalism in America is not Working. Capitalism is becoming Corrupt and a Tool for Criminals like Madoff to Play. Capitalism is breeding Crime.
CAPITALISM MUST GO – IF IT CANNOT BE CONTROLLED.

Finally, someone who puts things in perspective without all that mudslinging we see from palin and mccain.

Colin Powell is stil credible, introspective and has every right to voice what he thinks should be done for the country.

He served his country – what about the rest of you?

Ah don't dog a man until you walk in his shoes!!!!

Don't tell me one of obamas "so called Republican" lap dog's has only now become concerned.

While I somewhat agree with Powel, if Obama were to listen to his advice he should have listened at the beginning of the year. It's too late now. Most of the policies that dictate how the next 3 1/2 years plays out have already been set. The only 2 major agendas for the rest of this year are healthcare and climate change. They can put climate change off till the economy recovers, in my opinion. But healthcare can't wait.

I do think Obama should at least hear Powel out. he doesn't have any political agenda and unlike most of the Reps, he really does have this county's best interests at heart.

I respect Colin Powell but disagree with this assessment of President Obama's agenda. If the Republicans can throw a trillion dollars into their illegal war in Iraq (funds that went into the hands of military-industrial corporations like Blackwater and Halliburton), why do they now object to spending on programs that benefit the American people?

The Bush administration trampled all over the rights of Americans and the Obama administration is trying to remedy the damage and clean up a multitude of Republican messes. Obama and Congressional Democrats need to work hard on a number of fronts.

Powell, you're a great American. Very informed, result oriented soldier.

The White House Spending is getting out of control.

Common sense should tell the President and his staff that you shouldn't spend money you don't have. Especially when the costs are in the Billions and Trillions.

Didn't we learn anything from the out of control spending that was being done during the Bush era?

Obama is starting to look and act just like Bush.

I hope he listens to Powell.

Colin Powell is Just a Soldier all his life.

He does not know anything about Economy. He is not an Economist.

He should Just Shut Up and Mind his Own Business.

Obama has the Best Economists in the World in his Team.

President Obama has been in office for 6 months. In that time, he has been candid and open about everything that he is doing. It will take a minute to turn the economy around, get affordable healthcare instituted, exercise wisdom and sucessful diplomacy with our allies and foes, and do the things that he promised.

Is he moving too fast? If he were moving any slower, then this blog would be filled with critics about that. The President needs detractors, however, because if all he gets is praise, then he would not know that there are those that disagree with his policies. Sometimes good ideas come from those who disagree. Let it be known that the President is open to good ideas.

Mr. Powell can best lend his expertise and counsel in the privacy of the Oval Office.

Powell is concerned? Did he not realize Obama planned to spend the U.S. into the ground based on the policies proposed during his campaign? Maybe Powell is realizing he is also a victim of Obamania and should have never endorsed this man for president.

5 days before signing any bill : Broken promise
Indefenite detainee at Gbay : broken promise
No Tax increase below 250K income family: cap & Trade: Broken promise
No lobbyist in my admin: broken
No porkulous/earmark spending: Broken
Mirandise law of captured terrorist: Broken
Gbay; Dont know what to do with detainees.
Late and lame statement on Iran: No leadership and courage
Photos of prisoner abuse: Flip flop (thank god, finally he is right).

A naive man got so lucky to be in white house......

I'm looking in my wallet and paying the bills and everything has gone up and Obama is talking like there is no end to the money he can get and it has to come from someplace and Colin (turncoat) Powell is finally saying what the rest of us have been seeing, but not believing.
Get real and put a stop to this foolishness. Sure it would be nice to fix all that is wrong with this government, but it can't all be done at the same time.

America voted for a change in the way government works, not a change to the liberal view. Obama is forgetting this already. Over half of the country voted for him. Almost half didn't vote for him. if he's
not careful, the winds will shift, his 4 years will be over, then he'll be
on the speaking circuit with Powell. For some reason, people think of Powell as a republican, but if you read his book, he's voted for
both parties in elections. He's an independant at best!

Who cares what he thinks as he has lost his credibility?

first, he trashed the republicans hoping to get favours from the dems and obama and failing that, he now expresses concerns about the obama programs

Powell has never been known for his integrity or crtiical thinking.

Colin has seen the light. I wish some other influential supports of Obama would step, amd tell him to slow down.

I don't agree with Powell, but it's nice to see a reasoned response for once coming out of the GOP camp. This shows the difference between a moderate and the extreme right-wing who have been dominating the party for the past few decades. I'd sure like to see the party return to it roots of Eisenhower, Lincoln and TeddyR and away from the corporate loving ideals of Reagan and Bush.

Looks like the Kool-Aid has worn off. We tried to tell you!! Thanks to all the Looney Left Wingers, it isn't Bush anymore that got us in this mess, it is you guys!!!

To all of you that refer to "Big Business" as some evil entity that should be controlled by the governenment, who do you think employees most of America. Are you people really that short sighted?

D'oy – No kidding Colin. It looks like menopause has caused another mood swing and now you are lurching in the other direction. How wide is that fence you are sitting on? Choose a side! Obama doesn't need your advice what he needs to do is the same thing you need to do – GO AWAY and let the people of this country prosper again. Bush did enough damage and Colin's lack of intestinal fortitude and groveling helped in him do it for the first four years. Now it's the same story with Obama. GO AWAY!

Almost 10 years later the 2000 election accusations and tantrums continue. Old liberals will be spewing that garbage whilst dribbling jello in the nursing homes.

Try to deal with the realities of the present and let go of the media hype and untruths of the past.

George Bush spent too much unnecssarily and Obama is backed up by a Congress to triple costs when taxpayer and businesses are being destroyed. The only reason for these " bold and swift " moves are to push this country into a situation where government will be the saving grace. TARP was wrong, the Stimulus was wrong, the over budget omnibus was wrong because it was done politically, not honestly. I ask this, are our elected representatives voting for the Life, Liberty and Pursuit of Happiness for the citizens or the over-reaching power of the federal government to encroach on states rights by using tax dollar as bribes?

The comments in this thread are ridiculous. All Colin Powell said was that he was a "little" concerned that Obama has too much on the table – geeesshhh! I hardly think that's newsworthy, let alone giving some of you the impression that he no longer supports Obama on the issues. As to the money he's spending, maybe our Government will finally really take a look at waste, and this time do something about it!

So?Im still making tons of blood money,shut up Colin,let him keep spending.

You all crack me up – Republican this, Democrat that. It's like you feel immense pride for rooting for a 'team'. Instead you should be rooting for the public, you know – the slaves funding the system that runs wild.

Get a clue about how long term strategic planning works and then you realize we've been plodding down centralizing power for decades.

Fools. We're owned by the privatley owned FED, with an appointed chairman that none of us get a say in. The almighty god of dollar bill calls the shots, with a heaping pile of political bs on the side to distract you.

Emergency room medicine is invasive, messy, and expensive. If you don't want to pay the ER bill, then conduct yourself in a fashion that doesn't lead directly to serious, systemic disease. Economically, that means a financial system riddled with cronyism and fraud, a health-care system that is in a death spiral of reducing services and raising prices, and ill-considered military adventures. It also means irresponsible personal spending, foolish personal health habits, and an inability to discuss the issues except in belligerent broadsides and childish insults against straw-man arguments and stereotypes. That repairing the damage of the past thirty years is going to cost a lot of money should hardly be surprising. Obama is exactly right that the big issues have to be addressed together and they have to be addressed now – you can't treat just one of several diseased organs. I don't like going through rehab any more than anybody else, but I'm not going to deny its necessity to recovery. Those of you with better treatment plans had better get them to the doctors instead of just denouncing the current plan.

Any minority that goes along with or belongs to the republican party is an individual that wants to be accepted by the White majority and is looking for this acceptance.

Why be surprised at all? This is just another liberal regime buying votes with government money.

Once again the people have allowed some slick leftist politician to deceive them that they can have everything they could ever desire and somebody else will be stuck with the bill, but as a nation we are on sort of a Christmas season spending spree with the national Visa card.

Yet as surely as January rolls around and that envelope shows up, the national bill will arrive in the form of huge taxes and high interest rates.

Moral: Nothing is "free".

Colin Powell isn't the only one concerned about Obama's agenda. A lot of us out here are concerned as well. Course a good many of us could have told you what he was going to be like before the election. But so many folks were hell bent on distancing themselves from Bush (with some justification) that they made a horrible mistake. Some don't even realize it yet but they will. Just hope it's not too late.

Well, Powell should have thought about these things last fall when Obama was running for President. A careful listen AT THAT TIME would have enlightened Powell to the fact that Obama is a "big government, big spender" politician. However, everyone was so caught up in the "Bush lied" nonsense and Bush hatred that they didn't see Obama for who he really is. It was there all along folks, you just had to listen carefully and do your research, not just listen to soundbytes that the left leaning mainstream media elite wanted you to hear.

CNN is part of the OMN state run Obama Media Network, just like ABC, CBS, NBC and MSNBC. Obama probably approves the content of their nightly "news" programs. Just like the pre-packaged questions in each of the "news conferences" at the White House; this whole Presidency has been pre-packaged and staged; like a bad Hollywood movie.
When you cool-aid drinkers wake from the drunk; join us and vote the Bums Out in 2010. With or without you; conservative and moderate Americans will clip his wings in 2010 and vote him out in 2012!

There is a simple reason why Obama has too much on his plate. He is trying to push for reforms in sectors where previous presidents have failed for decades. Business interests are able to push in money at the right time,influence the public opinion (because we the people have a very short memory) and of course again and again lobby washington. Only now when one side controls the congress is there any iota of chance of passing these reforms.

Mr. Powell
You are a genius to just figure it out. I recall your presentation to the UN. John King- It is time to interview someone new, forget these career politicians- try Paul Ryan from WI

I suggest that respondents actually read what Colin Powell said in this article. Powell is expressing concerns that many including President Obama has expressed. There are many issues at hand for this country and reasonable solution-oriented plans and ideas are what is needed.

Too many CNN respondents are "I told you so" or "it is their fault". Lets voice our concerns and map out a plan which will benefit all Americans.

So all of you right-wingers and left-wingers. GET OVER IT AND GROW UP!!!!

MODERATES are and will always be the majority party in the USA. We want active solutions based on facts and discussions between responsible and concerned parties, who put the interests of the American people before their political party/affiliation.

STOP POLITICAL POSTURING AND LETS MAKE THE USA WHAT IS SHOULD BE!!

What can this mean? Is Colin Powell finally seeing beyond Obama's skin color and charisma? Could it be that Powell is finally waking up to the fact that Obama's agenda is based upon massive government expansion for control of America? There is hope for Colin within the Party of "NO, let's look before we leap"; I as an Independent would support him as a presidential candidate in 2012, The Republicans assuredly need someone to step up that has fiscally responsible ideals, someone that is not so imprisoned by forcing their religious beliefs that it makes them unacceptable to a majority of Americans. Free Men, Free Market, FREE!

Colin is ok. All the money Clinton left on the table for Bush was gone.
A huge bill was left for Obama to clean up.The GOP boys have been stealing from you average guys for 100 years, still many of you still vote for guys like Mitch and the rest of the goofballs. There is nothing in it for the average people. They are hiding behind the slogan of less government, and you guys are falling like a teenager in love.All the GOP wants, is more money for the rich and less taxes for them.And yes, they want you to pay for it. Finally it seems that some people are getting the message. The GOP party is selfdestructing.

State of the Union is biased to the right.

I do not see any personal ambition in the statements by Secretary Powel. I see someone who is simply trying to point something out to the new president. I think dialogue and conversation are so important in today's politics. We want as many points of view as peopel are willing to contribute. Not all of the opinions may be used, but it is a good idea to have many minds on many problems. If you think about it this way, if you have one person trying to solve many different problems, or 5-10 minds solving each problem, which will provide more options and solutions. It was quite clear that Mr. Powel has had conversations with the President and he has offered insight. I think the idea of finding what is effective is the most important thing. I feel like this government is trying to reach out and gain insight from many different sources. Nothing will ever be perfect, but multiple points of view are a way to help make things a little better.

I've always admired and respected Colin Powell, and if there had been a McCain/Powell (or flip them) ticket in 2000 or 2008, they would have had my vote. These remarks ring true to me – in a time of great financial crisis, the president needs to prioritize where the efforts and dollars of this country go. These are the hard choices I thought I was hoping Obama would make in a better fashion than Bush – unfortunately, it seems like the choice has been made to ram everything down the hroats of the taxpayer and give a few speeches about how wonderful and smart these ideas are, with the obligatory warning of the doom to come if we don't follow the president's lead. This is not the change I voted for.

DUH. Didn't you add up all the lies of Obama while he was campaigning? Didn't this compute and you still endorsed the idiot? I think you voted for him because he was black and not intelligent, like most of my black friends.

Now we have the worst President of all time even beating out Bush.

The GOP is concerned over the Dems agenda – there's a news flash!
Too bad Colin, your party implemented its agenda for 8-years and look where that got us.

Come back and voice your concerns after we've had equal time to sweep up the enormous mess after your party's little elephant parade left town!

You know, I don't know about you guys but they're calling out John in some! I've read one(Ithink Matt was his name in Fl and a good one) that John showed his true colors...I mean, that's why he's one of the boys, LOL!!!

Where has that guy been that? Don't worry, we'll take care of him...:)

Please give me the name of a Republican President who has NOT grown the govrnment, and increased the debt.

Reagan? More burocracy, more spending.

Bush 1st? More burocracy, more spending.

Bush 2nd? WAY more burocracy, WAY more spending.

Obama is not spending money because he wants to. He DOESN'T HAVE A CHOICE. Somebody has to fix the problems left by Dubya! And fixing problems costs money.

The point is that NOT fixing problems costs EVEN MORE money!

Colin would certainly know about troubling "agendas", since his stint as GWBs DL (Designated Liar) in the Iraq debacle, that's cost thousands of lives, needlessly.

Republicans whining about huge deficits is very humorous, given their past history.

Relax, Colin. Your credibility is nil with thinking people.

Although, if I had to vote for a Republican, or face a firing squad, I'd probably vote for Colin.

BTW–I served in 'Nam with Colin in the 11th Inf. Bde.

He has a habit of stepping in it, it seems. Check out his My Lai connections.

He's always being saddled with bogus information.

Just sayin'.

Obama is doing fine. He had a lot of manure to shovel out the way.

Give the Brother a chance!

Obama is doing very well, He may not be perfect but if you compare Bush and GOP leaders, Obama is still a way better, so, let's give him some time, it took 8 years to Bush to destroy everything, it will take some time. OBAMA 2012, your die hard supporter...

Keep crying republicans,im enjoying every moment after Cheney and Bush.They couldnt catch a cold or Bin Laden.Obama with Russias help will catch him.

I agree with Powel, all Obamas policies are Taxing the American people out of there house. The middle class will be poorer than what they are now.............

Powell's words mean nothing to me. He lost his credibility, and with it, my respect.

Check your facts obamites.

Bush jr inherited a recession too. FACT. Stop your stupid blames on W. Clintoon rodes the worlds biggest bubble to a "surplus" when it burst, we had a 16 month recession. It was likely reversed by the tax cuts/rebates that bush carried out in first couple months.

Really, get an education before making stuff up. You are making up history. Thats close to psycosis.

Yeah, it sure worked great when we focused on just one think like Iraq didn't it? Do you really think Obama enjoys the mess Republicans left for him? Thank goodness we have someone who can do more than just chew gum and swagger.

For the prior eight years, Bush did NOTHING except to strip the regulatory strength of virtually every department from FDA, EPA, SEC, FEC, FCC, et al. The fact that Obama is trying to do a lot should make every American pleased and supportive. Some activists complain he isn't doing enough, now others like Powell and beltway pundits whine he is taking on too much. They ought to be supportive.

To all of you "Nay Sayers" – let's give President Obama some time to correct a lot of problems (ie; the Wars in both Iraq and Afganistan, the State of the Economy) which he inherited from the Bush Administration. During the Bush Adminisration's 8 years in office, Bush and Cheney did absolutely nothing about our dependence on Foreign Oil , the HealthCare Issues (which are draining us dry) and other issues such as Global Warming, Clean Air and Water. President Obama has only been in office for only five months and already has accomplished more for all Americans than George W. and Company did in two terms. And YES it does take spending money to accomplish these tasks.

We could have used Gen. Powell's "concern" a few years ago when we were embarking on an unnecessary war that we're still reeling from. If it wasn't for the hole the bush administration dug for us, we wouldn't need so many programs to recover from it. Gen. Powell, your time to help this country has come and gone.

You know, I read all comments and pretty much about 50-70% of the comments are either reinforcing their argument OR enforcing it, either way, they are not creating one, that's my point. And honestly? This is the best comment so far...

"Colin remains level-headed, and his concerns sound the same as mine. On the foreign policy front, Obama has a lot of supporters from true conservatives (as opposed to neoconservatives)."

Magnifico! LOL!!!

Oh my goodness, is gonna be a good one...

Obama has done some things I disagree with, but no matter what he does or what anyone says he's a thousand times better than Bushy or McSame.

I had the upmost repsect for Mr. Powell UNTIL he turned traitor to our country by endorsing a marxist. Our only hope is to throw ourselves under the wheels of this runaway train and hope that enough of us can put a stop to it. I am a Proud Member of the Party of NO!

I'll try it again...but expect CNN to moderate it out.

Colin Powell you are a disgrace to being American and you were smart enough to know what this President was going to do when elected. To be concerned now is a day late and a dollar short.

For those that think America can pay for all the bills and Stimulus along with Cap & Trade are in for a rude awakening. This President is going to take our country into third world status and it is happening right before our very eyes just because he is good looking and can speak well.

We should not be looking at this from a Party position but simply as an American....and from the position that the middle class is the only group that pay for all of this...the ones that don't work don't pay and the corporations and Unions that bought the election along with SEIC and Acorn certainly don't pay...who's left?

To the Repubs, you put us where at now, the cut taxs and spend policies, that you've had since 60s has killed this country,. All we hear from you Repub, is your brain the fox news channe, no orginal thoughts all of you regurgitate what they tell you. Come on Repubs think forself you bunch sheep. we can't cut the taxes on the rich and go war every few years thats not answer. thats all we hear blah blah blah is cost money to be a American.

Ooohhh, Now that Powell has expressed concern with Obama's plans, will the Republican Chairman & Spokesperson, (Rush Limbaugh), let him back in?

Eh, probably not. Powell still goes against Republican philosophies. He still speaks his mind, and has a mind of his own as opposed to one controlled by a daily briefing on talking points for the day, or a benign talk radio host who talks big, looks bigger, and actually does very little.

An independent mind is the GOP's worst enemy. Dems fall in love. Reps fall in line.

Enjoy the next several elections, Grand OLD Party. I used to WANT to vote for your principles. Part of me still does. But your candidates and junior high rhetoric won't allow me to.

It still seems that liberals dost protest too much. Your self consciousness is showing. From euphoria for whatever reason (I still can't figure it out) to the reality that you people elected an inexperienced Chicago ... um ... organizer and left wing democrat to the detriment of the entire country.

Colin Powell I suspect was excited and euphoric at election time, but is, like millions of others, a bit more grim at the reality of the Obama and Pelosi regimes.

Hopefully 4 years will go by quickly and without too much damage.

Phil, I am convinced that your statement "Corruption, spending, intimidation" will be used in 30 years to define Obama's administration. Let's just hope that our country can survive a hostile takeover by big government, big business, and big labor. So far, it is looking like we may not. People need to realize that government action like we are seeing is not new. It has happened in many countries over hundreds and thousands of years. It always ends up with people being enslaved to the government. Look at Hitler's Germany, Mousalini's Italy, Stalin's Russia, present day China, Venezuela, and Cuba. Now Obama is standing with Chavez and Castro in support of a dictator taking over Honduras. Why would he do that? We should all be more than "a little concerned."

A little concerned? A small step in the right direction, Now if we can just get the press to be objective and stop being tools of the progressives, we may save the country yet. When the press became the Obama crown, liberty started to loose.

Problem is - Bush is the one that led the financial bailout, not Obama. King inadvertently tried to lay that at his feet. Powell is gracious in expressing his concerns, and he continues to have my respect.

Well Mr P...what things should Obama NOT worry about and try to fix? Amusing how the neo's suddenly get concerned about "spending".. and the hot air about "tax increases".. not often addressing the "increase" is a return to what the shrub gave away to the well off.

Still waiting to hear from the "money hawks" why the billionaire LLC MAX tax rate (read, BEFORE Deductions) is at 14% and the average hourly wage in USA is at $35K and their tax rate is at 33=35%%... Even more amusing how those folks are supposed to pay $300-400/month for "copayments on health care for them and family" as $35K post tax is about $20-22K? Well money wizards... what does that make their family budget look like?

To Jim,
Where are you living ? Obama agenda has trippled the deficit and you say it costs less than the war ? Bush increased the deficit with war. Bush did not handle economy. Obama does not fix either. He actually makes it worse with his spending spree. I don't oppose ot his initiatives: fixing economy and healthcare, but I oppose to how he does it by spending uncontrolbly.
He looks like the college kid with parent-provided credit card on spending spree

Colin. This is the guy you pushed for last fault. Blame yourself.

Obama would have a lot less on his agenda if his predecessor had tried to focus on something other than Iraq. Let's face it: the president won in a landslide last year because Americans want this mess cleaned up. Even though I wish he were doing more I applaud his effort thus far.

You're concerned? Really? Well, you voted for him, idiot.

To all the democratic party leaning individuals, your pitiful practicioners of power continued to fund the exercises that you look to Wbya as the cause for. Lacking the balls to not fund the war is why it was continued. Had the democrats mustered the balls to say no, it may have been a different picture today. Too bad you morons cannot come to grips with reality. Have a nice day when obama takes your last dime for some social program.

On the one hand, I agree with General/Secretary Powell, it IS important that President Obama not have too much to absorb/to pay for, BUT...
Who says we are at that point?
If this administration had started with a fiscal surplus, as the last did, how much better off would we all be?
If the country had entered this term without the fiscal travesty brought on by DECADES of wanton pilfering and pillage by "Big Business" and the collusive Federal "Corporatocracy," we would be facing NONE OF THIS.
We are where we are and this President SEEMS to have the citizens as his primary concern, NOT big business.
For generations, more and more wealth is going to fewer and fewer people... And it has been happening in an ethics free environment... Enron, Halliburton, Madoff, Savings and Loans, Banks, Big Agribusiness, and the rest, all using the system to profit at the expense of the society, humanity, environment – It's time to change the course of history (it's PAST time but), we are where we are, let this President have the freedom and latitude that the last one did...

Honestly, at the end of the day, can THIS administration do any more (as much) harm as the last has to our Country???

I don't think so! And he will probably do THE PEOPLE a lot of good..

I also agree his agenda is ambitious. Not wanting to harp on the total lack of ambition for the the prior administration, but we need to realize those years are gone and we have nothing much to show for them.
We have so many areas that people want help solving. The tentacles are far reaching and the solutions difficult to project.
President Obama would love to say we will wait to addresss a, b, c, d, e, f, ....but unfortunately we are being attacked on all fronts~ economy , housing, health care, food safety, global warming, ineffective and crumbling state governments, joblessness, WARS and errant foreign governments...the list goes on. So I appalaud his determination to address problems and do realize the price tag is very, very high...either way...sit and watch or try to solve...I'd rather attempt to solve than let America sit and watch.

First of all, Republicans and fiscal conservatism is a myth. All presidents (save Clinton who got lucky with a hot economy) has run a huge deficit and all of them have grown government (Yes, that means Reagan too).

I support Obama, but I also support having a balanced budget. If this means raising taxes, then it means raising taxes. It may also mean cutting budgets. Almost 50% for the worlds defense spending is done by the US, I think I know of good place to start.

As for a good way to reduce our deficit, we should start a war tax. First, to pay for the two wars we are in that we ran on a credit card (Started by bush, approved by both Democrats and Republicans). Second, to always be in effect when we send x number of soldiers to war. This will do two things for us. One, keep us all interested in who our government is attacking and why. Second, keep our deficit down.

I'm sure Obama's dilemma is he doesn't want to cut spending or raise taxes during a recession. My hope is if the economy turns around a bit, he will be more aggressive trimming the fat. I'm sure he can see the writting on the wall and we don't want the US to end up like California.

Everybody wants a "a government that works." The question has to be: Works for who?
Obama is securing the role of big business and the American elite in the house of government. He is excluding the middle class and working class, marginalizing them with his "just wait for it" attitudes concerning unemployment, housing, and available healthcare. Meanwhile, the wealthy elite and the institutions that feed them are being shorn up and stabilized so the American taxpayer can continue to provide their financial security for decades to come.
Powell, with his smoke and mirrors rhetoric, is positioning himself for a spot in government within the next administration or even possible candidacy. It's a smart political maneuver. When you stand in the center, it's more difficult for the opposition to anticipate where you're going to jump. Think Huntsman and Powell in 2012.

You Loony Left Lib Lemmings can keep Powell.

We don't want him back, ever!

A little late for Colin to see the light!! I've talked to a lot of OBama past supporters that are sorry now!!!
The only people who are still supporting Obama are the ones who think he will be giving them "FREE STUFF" and are jealous of the rich!
Well, go get an education, get a job and make your own money..it works....then you free loaders will see how it is to have PRIDE, FULFILLMENT, AND MONEY! and really understand how rich people become rich! They worked hard, saved, went without, so they could get ahead....try it...it works. And so shouldn't you!!

Why is it some people (Republicans mostly) spend like crazy while they are it office and complain about spending when they are not?

Also, why is it we should not spend for health care and our economy BUT it is ok to spend all you want for a war (a war that should not have been by the way).

Powell should be thrown in jail for criticizing the Messiah.

Odd that this man that once backed Obama is now worried about his agenda. Coming as this does on the heels of Obama's approval ratings taking a good hit, the White House butt kissing press corp turning on him and all the other bad news Obama's agenda has gotten latley is just makes Mr. Powell look like he is not trying to save his own political career. Sad. You supported him sir, now take your medicine like a man.

Powell! Good soldier, bad politician.

Colin Powell should have been more prudent before offering his support to a former community organizer and inexperienced Senator
for the huge job of President of the U. S. Also, what did Coilin think would happen once a socialistic Democrat took over the White House.
Colin should have stayed true to his party and worked for changes within it.

Amazing that BO is making GW actually look like he was a great president. How sad that such a great country as ours has elected 2 losers the last 3 elections.

But nothing is worse then BO trying to destroy this country with his socialist policy. Colin little to late for you too speak up!

We are the greatest nation, and will even survive this.

NO body cares about indebting our children when we pay terrorist trillions to fix their countries, Billions to foreign countries in aid, billions to finance rogue groups to fight their governments, billions to foreign government officials, billions lost or overcharged by American businesses. Do you know that over 400 billion is unaccounted for from the Iraq war alone? Billions more for katrina.

I have huge problems with some of Obama's agenda but whom do you trust. CEO's who are only concerned about profit. Why pay taxes when the taxes are not benefiting you? How does my taxdollars being sent to Israel, Africa, Europe, or South America benefit me?

EVERY president's actions should be ALL of our concerns. without exception. there's nothing new or different with our current president in that respect.

however

the republican nay-sayers are all frothing at the mouth going "SEE! SEE! WE TOLD YOU ... !"

just more of the usual sensationalizing ... which is not new.

Do any of you conservatives or Obama detracters have any alternate solutions or ideas on how to fix healthcare, the economy, or any of the other issues that trouble our nation?

All I hear from the right is propaganda, buzz words like "socialist", appealing to fear or logic, and so on. In all of that I hear nothing about solutions.

Obama doing to much? How about Obama not doing enough. The right needs to come to the party with solutions instead of words and distractions or sit down, shut the hell up, and watch from the sidelines...

Powell is always trying to be so politically correct when he should just says what he means. Obama is spending us into a hole we may never dig out of and he is creating larger government programs daily without so much as a sideways look from a compliant & corrupt democratic leadership.

oh please. the most able public servant? look at your communities. oh wait, that's part of the problem. you can't expect one man (and a cabinet) to fix all your problems, but that's another part of the problem. the world has advanced such that our place in it is muddled, if it was ever clear. the position of the president of the united states... ever so changing/developing because the world is not immutable.

he told you what you wanted to hear. like a desperate person coming out a bad relationship, he came up and said all the things he would do for you and you ate it up.

sow your optimism within a 30-mile radius if you want to see the change you want to see.

What makes Powell think I want the government or need the government to solve my problems? Just read the paper and see how they can’t solve their own problems much less work together to solve any problems. Just look at all the fighting taking place in New York between the parties. Both Rep and the Dems should be ashamed of themselves.

Mark

The continued stupidity of the liberal responders is beyond belief. So many of you liberals want to blame the problems on the former admistration and you liberals are all alike . . . you will not accept responsibility for your actions. There is no doubt the economy would be in a recovery if it had not been infested with the high cost stimulus bill. There is no one with any economic sense that believes additional goverment spending will help improve the economy. If we take the additional goverment hires out of the employment figures, then the unemployment would already be over 10%. The ignorance of BO and his followers is a very sad happening.

For all the Repubs. who critize Obama, can you name one single good thing Bush did for this Country in 8 years? I don't want to hear tax cuts because all that did was put us into more debt and trash the encomy. I would like to hear one, just one, good thing Bush did for America.

Powell, for what you did, the rest of the country has to suffer.
Shame on you for helping get Obama elected. What a mess.

Well Mr. Powell, while I disagree with most of your points or the conclusions you came to, it's really good to see a Republcan (and yes, he is one, there can be some moderation in the Republican Party and he IS the proof) with substantiated points of view.

Powell isn't concerned about Obama spreading HIMSELF thin, but rather OUR MONEY! We Americans cannot afford to pay for all the junk Obama wants to do, including all that global warming nonsense. Al Gore is a fool, and so is everyone who listens to him.

Now the Republicans has found a voice with Colin Powell whom by the way they've called with every name in the book for supporting Obama. He said he has concern about " all his agenda rying to everything at once" in contrary he did not say that Obama should not do anything to fix the crisis Bush left him.
Why didn't say something when 700000 were losing jobs on the monthly basis? Now the number has decreased considerablely despite the litthe increase this month due to GM bankruptcy so are out there running your mouth.
OBAMA is trying to put america together again with solid foundations for growth. It will cost money but I urge him just to spend but control the spending and raise taxes if that is the only choice left.

Welcome Mr. Powell. I am glad you seem to have woken up.

This is the conservative side of Powell coming through. I just don't think people are used to so much from a president in such a short amount of time.

Obama's message during the campaign was all about change, he hit the ground running and hasn't slowed since. Some of his agenda will slip and some will stick but he's laying it all out there and I give him credit for that.

I am amazed by some of these GOP comments here bashing Powell. It seems no matter who speaks they will take issue with it. One of the first rules of business, is that there will be 20-30% of your customer's that consume to much of your time, they demand special treatment, and no matter what you do nor the amount of effort you put into appeasing them will ever satisfy them. So eventually you refuse service with them so that you can focus on your base and grow your enterprise.

It's time to stop pandering to the GOP. Ignore them and grow our country.

Everybody who's so concerned about Obama's agenda should consider what we would have under McCain as a president.

We'd probably already be at war with Iran, and of course still be in Iraq. The Vice-President, Sarah Palin, would be working hard to take away a woman's right to control her own body. McCain had NO plan to halt the recession, so likely we'd be free-falling toward a fullscale Depression, with no one having any idea how to stop it. Our status in the world would have still been in the basement, if not lower, and Americans abroad would still have to lie about their country of origin ("No, really, we're Canadians") to avoid scorn from those who saw us as warmongering jerks.

Now? Sure, things are still tough, but there's light at the end of the tunnel – housing is up, and there was an article in my local paper about how manufacturing is on the rise. Respect for America has gone up considerably abroad, and we have a First Family to be proud of, not ashamed of.

Yes, Obama's plans strike some as scary and radical. But so did Lincoln's, and his ideas worked. Why don't we give the president a chance to fix some of the problems he inherited before we declare him a failure? And anyone who thinks McCain would have done better, please prove it. I'd like to hear why you think so.

I am too Mr. Powell, as a Democrat

OBAMA was on board at the beginning of these problems and for him to say there was no oversight or accountability of previous admin is rediculous. Ask Pelosi, Rangel, Frank, what the hell were they doing then and are still doing now. Don't get me wrongm, the republicans were to blame also, but these civil servants are so out of touch with Americans.
We are in trouble, God save us

Great job President Obama.We will get the money from the Anti Americans that hide it in offshore and swiss accts. like Limbaugh and his rich ilk.The swiss have already said they will open the books.They can run but they cant hide for long.hahahaha

Now Powell is concerned??? What a hypocrite. You're the traitor that voted for this Marxist, Powell......you wanted him you got him.

The republicans voted as a block for 8 years and screwed up the economy and our reputation. Now they begin each day by boasting
to the public of how they have the RIGHT answer to solving the problems that they now blame President Obama for causing,
while they fabricate lies to create fear. They have been the party of
greed and BUSH/CHENEY promoted their cadre of cronies to suck the money from every source they could. Now CHENEY keep his
act up in fear of the Justice Department prosecuting him.

Go Away Republicans. Let Obama try to save US.

Jeff – Powell backed the stronger man. What exactly is McCain strong on?

Economy – he said it was strong while every economist said it was tanking.

Defense – I think he spent his entire military career captured and being tortured. I don't want to learn that from him, do you?

I can't think of anything, can you?

Education – it is well documented that he was a dunce.

Next...

Colin Powell has no credibility after his performance at the United Nations prior to the Iraq War.

He seems like an extraordinarily expedient sort to me.

and I thought powell knew what he was doing. he did not see this coming????????????????????????????????? everything about obama is that he believes the hype and there is nothing too ambitious too ask of the people. come on powell. disappointing.

Old Soldier – all the institutions you mentioned were bankrupt under Bush and the republicans, so no matter what you called it they were lost, done, finished, depression, recession, failures under republican's. I don't agree with any of the bailouts started by the republicans and continued by the democratic administration, I however understand. First you stop the bleeding then you fix the problem. If republicans knew the answer to stopping the mess they got us into then why didn't they fix it? Just like McCain, during the campaign, knew exactly where and how to get Osama, well McCain we are still waiting?!?!?!?!? If he knows and he is not telling then he is a terrorist and has committed treason. I know what he is – a LIAR!

You know, people, every generation leaves debt for their children...think about it! When Social Security was instituted, who do you think paid for their parents' retirements? Not the little bit put into the system by the people pulling it out. We have a responsibility in this great land to take care of each other. Unfortunately, Republicans think that happens by them accumulating vast amounts of money through tax cuts and huge executive compensation. Then what? Aren't you supposed to give back? Create jobs? It didn't work with Bush, did it? That is why the government is now stepping in to create jobs that will in turn allow people to buy homes they can afford and buy items they need. Obama walked into the very worst situation ever faced by a new President, and I think they had to multitask. What would have happened in Iraq had Obama simply focused on jobs here? What would have happened to the auto industry if Obama had simply focused on Iraq? Please, just because you can't see the forest for the trees does not mean that Obama has an evil agenda for this country. That doesn't make any sense. He loves America (ALL of America, unlike Republican 'leaders') and he wants us to succeed. You eagerly gave Bush 8 years to ruin the economy, get thousands of people killed, break the law repeatedly, take away rights, and NOW you're worried? Because he's black and intelligent?

It was pretty obvious that President Obama was going to increase spending when he ran. He is wasting our money, and stifling a market that is trying hard to improve. The market works in cycles, President Bush should not get credit for the good times before the crash, nor should he be blamed for the collapse. He begged Barney Frank's committee to do something about Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, but Frank was receiving so much money from those two firms that he refused. The crash did not start until after Democrats took control of Congress, and, despite President Obama's best efforts, it will improve in spite of him.

I agree that the president has a very full plate. Problem is, most of these things are interconnected and can't necessarily be dealt with individually. To all the naysayers and critics: Do you have a better ideas? Didn't think so...

We can't afford to pay for the President's initiaives? I never heard one Republican make that argument about the war in Iraq. That one thing alone has cost us more than everything the President has put forward and at least he is trying to pay for what he does.

Mr. Powell's star status has shrunk dramatically in recent years and with this latest statement so has his effectiveness in the political arena. He made a choice – one he publicly heralded – that he, like numerous other Americans, now apparently regret.

Perhaps the good general should leave the Washington scene altogether and seek out a position on the board of a very large corporation where his image as a proven leader of men will do him and others around him a far greater good in the long term.

I like the man as a person and I am grateful to him for his illustrious service to our Country but suffice to say that he did make the choice all by himself.

In Response to: kishen c.rao July 3rd, 2009 9:18 am ET

what is he concerned about??? Fixing health care? Energy Indipendence? Economy? or Immigration? Is he going to be another roadblock on these issues along with bunch of Lobbyists like AMA, Hospitals, and Insurance groups and doctors….???????

Yea, let's bash those evil doctors who help us when we are sick. I hate those guys, they are terrible evil people.....
haha, you my friend have fallen for Obama's class envy war and it makes you look pathetic.

I am surprised that Powell is surprised with the course of the Obama administration. A person with his experience should have been able to see this before he supported him.
So " I am concerned" is a little too late; isn't it?

Well, well, well. Looks light another Obama supporter finally realizes that he is going to destroy the country with his liberal agenda.

The gay folks are finding out he is no friend of theirs too.

I wonder how its working out for all those people who thought Obama was going to get them jobs, make the foreclosure go away and keep their fridge full.

Promises promises.

E.C.Coleman – what has McCain done for Americans' beside being captured and tortured?

What is interesting is that everybody that expressed concerns that President Obama is trying to do too much, including Colin Powell, did not express that for 8 years, George Bush tried to do too little for middle class America. If you think about it, President Obama is doing what any competent executive does, he hires the best people that he can, explains what he wants done and lets the do their job, reporting progress back to him, coming to him with the big problems in getting the job done. You all act like he has to do it all himself. He has "people" to get it done.

First off, Obama is spreading himself thin... secondly, has anyone acually read the AMA voices of the uninsured? This isn't a lobby group, it is doctors trying to fulfill their hippocratic oaths, but unless you are a doctor, you wouldn't understand the difference. Thirdly, we need to cut the fat off of the government and start shaping our government so that it works better.

Translation: Rush was right.

Colin, if u r thinking about a comeback, think twice. Which party u r going to run from? GOP? Not a chance.

Was Powell concerned with Bush's agenda when he destroyed America, if not, his concern means nothing to an intelligent person?

I can understand the concern only if you're not prone to multitasking. President Obama can handle the task at hand and understand the cost it will take to help us begin getting out of this mess. As Americans we must get a grip on how this mess started and demand our Congressional leaders to stop the unnecessary bills that are not putting their constituents to work. Check your local government and see what they are doing with the stimulus money before we go pointing the finger at our President. Keep push for change Mr. President.

Great call Colin! Now that the cows have gotten out of the barn, people are realizing our new young President has lofty goals and is hell bent on getting them done even if the numbers don't add up or the costs are beyond belief given the prevailing economic woes. It also seems President Obama has steadily forgotten his election promises and is proving to be "just another politician" out to grind out a legacy. The good part of all this is at least we know where we're headed for the remainder of his present term. I just wonder how large the national debt will be by then.

Where was Powell's "concern" whe he was flapping about the mobile biological warfare labs that brought us to war?????

I agree that Obama has taken on many projects, however, he was given these problems (all of them, war, economic problems, etc from the Bush administration) How would the Republicans have solved these problems? I trust that Obama has not taken all of these projects alone. He has appointed many great minds to tackle a lot of what was left to them......Six months to solve eight years of termoil. Give me a break. We need more job availability, true, but energy, health and environmental jobs would help provide these jobs. It took eight years to destroy American, give it more time to rebuild.

While I have the utmost respect for Mr. Powell he does need to take into consideration that the reason that President Obama is having to do so much so fast is due to the lack of action by the previous administration.

I agree that it is a lot and will be costly but most of it is long overdue. He did inherit this mess and we need to keep that in mind.

Powell should have seen this before. It was obvious to all during the campaign. Obama's foreign policy is retreat and appeasement. His domestic policy is spend, borrow and tax.

WHAT? An Obama supporter worrying about debt, big government, and paying for it all?

I would have much preferred Colin Powell as President. At least he has some common sense and realizes there is a limit to our nation's resources.

ya think?

I thought Obama promised the same health care as Congress? oh well. I'm more concerned about the cap & trade bill that is backed by wall street, has anybody noticed that hedge funds are buying up pieces of rain forest all over the world. There's another bubble on the horizon, be careful with your money!!!

Message to Mr Powell

In 1994 when the Republicans were looking for a leader, they called on you to serve. You rejected that call.

In 2008 you made it clear that you endorsed higher taxes, even bigger government, and more Federal intervention in business when you endorsed Barack Obama.

Now, in 2009, you claim to have the best interests of the Republican Party at heart, and you criticize the very spending programs that you voted for by endorsing Barack Obama.

It seems to me, Mr Powell, that you want to dictate strategy to the Republicans, but weren't prepared to serve as their leader, and you want to criticize the big government that you chose.

Tell us now, what again do you stand for, Mr Powell? Flip-flops?

- Ron

Mr Powell please talk to the radicals in your party. Ask them to help the President to succeed rather than hope he fails or hope that the US is bombed so they can push throw there agenda of making the rich, richer and world domination by the christian fanatics.

Glad to learn that Powell has come to see the Obama his record clearly-CLEARLY-told us he was. I guess 'better late than never.'

Really Powell, a little concerned? Where have you’ve been, under a rock? Oh yeah, that’s right, you were Republican, then switched, and now your senses have come back and want to return to the side of sensibility, morals, integrity, and God?

So here we have yet another "voter remorse" case for the socialist Obama. It is really a shame that the Obaminites did not look closer at him before voting for him. His agenda was clear to anyone not blinded by the annoited one.

Gee I wonder how Rush still would like Powell out of the GOP now?

I would like to see Gen. Powell at the table with Obama as Advisor at large. The power they would produce will bring a great deal of trust to the people.

i do agree with powell im a little concerned too i think obama is doing a good jobs i just wish he would slow down and think about how much money this stuff is gonna take democracts seem too think america has lots of money . We would if all these companies stop moving there business overseas or too mexico i feel wee should put money into starting companies that make the same stuff that we have here just make it here in the usa and then we don't need too buy all the stuff from overseas the obama can spend as much money as he wants cause everyone will have a job too help pay for it

I tried to warn you, my friend.

President Obama is turnign us into a third world country and he says he is only a little concerned. What will it take to be a lot concerned – 99% unemployment? No food, no jobs, no housing – May God help us all.

It is time to get everything done that fell by the wayside the past eight years, thank you very much, Mr. Powell.

Finally he speaks up! Powell, you should have been the pres chief! Why didn't you run!?

What, Powell is just now figuring out that Obama is a progressive? Obama is doing nothing that most of the conservatives weren't predicting during the campaign. Powell too star struck with the idea of a black president to care.

Colin remains level-headed, and his concerns sound the same as mine. On the foreign policy front, Obama has a lot of supporters from true conservatives (as opposed to neoconservatives).

Touche, General Powell. It does become large chunks to have to manage in terms of cost and in coordination. This approach WOULD begin to drive the shape of government.

Everyone wants something and we want it NOW!! or we will otherwise hold this administration accountable as failing to follow through. Obama can't ask for patience because the RNC wants to assure unrest for ANY initiatives or objectives. They criticize highly either by spin, lying or just outright refusal to support. We've all seen it.

By the by, WE ARE the children and grandchildren of the Great Depression who seemed to have been moving right along fine (not so much Social Security and Healthcare) until last administration. Interestingly enough, we've found ways to blame Obama for their failures to invest significantly into anything worthwhile. He's just paying the bill for their delinquencies.

I am glad to see Colin Powell showing his willingness to criticize the president when he feels it is deserved. This shows that, contrary to what Rush Limabaugh and Sean Hannity say, Colin Powell is truly focused on whats best for the country regardless of partisan politics.

Gen. Powell, please remain a part of the American political climate because your country needs you

I generally agree with General Powell. We need to focus on a government that works but we also need to keep in mind that every additional government worker inplies a longterm human resources cost to the taxpayer for pensions, retirement benefits and healthcare.

I admire Colin Powell and maybe he has legitimate concerns about Obama's agenda. So how come he did not have legitimate concerns about Bush's agenda about invading sovereign countries and running up debts of one trillion dollars after having inheriting a surplus, none of which has benefitted the American people at all. Fair is fair.

countdown to all the Obama supporters who were praising him as such a hero a few weeks ago to begin trashing him now that he has dared question the Presidents policies. Powell has always been a war criminal whether he praises Obama or not.

All of these people now concerned with government programs to help the people, god forbid that our tax dollars are spent on the American people. Where was everyone when the bush people were spending like drunken sailors on illegal wars, no bid contracts, money just thrown away and lost forever. Government grew 12% under cheney/bush.

Powell, would be one of the first to know where all our money has gone, he has not said a word when billions were wasted in Iraq, and now Afghanistan, another war with no end in sight , but I am sure he wont be too concerned about the money spent there.

Thank you Captain Obvious...

Really, Colin? Now you come to the realization that Obama's a big government socialist? You could've done a bit of research before you endorsed the biggest spender in American history. Yeah, Bush's deficit sucked. You know what sucks worse – quadrupling it in 5 months. 'Preciate that, General.

May I ask who cares what Powell thinks?. If this man was not astute enough to know that Obama was a leftist,Marxist from the beginning and voted for him how is he to be listened to now? Any semblance of honor and intellect that was ever,wrongly(in my opinion),attributed to him was totally done away with in his UN speech defending our Iraq fiasco. He is nothing more than another Washington sycophant who rose to the level he did by DC retribution mentality. So sad. BTW

In the midst of all the craziness with the economy, it is so reassuring to think that the wisdom of Gen. Colin Powell dwells somewhere in the background. Solutions to numerous problems we face may be a work in progress, but it would boost my level of confidence to see some priorities established, and follow through to successful completion on a few projects rather than this ongoing "process" on multiple projects.

It seems our president is frantically focusing on dousing multiple outbreaks of "brush fires" affecting special interest groups while unknown arsonists (enemies and frenemies of his young, inexperienced administration) are draining the water supply, leaving the houses of the masses largely exposed and and in jeopardy. After my house burns down I am not going to consider that the water supply was depleted – I am just going to recall that the fire department never showed up...BUT THEN AGAIN, THAT'S THE POINT OF DRAINING THE SUPPLY.

It appears everyone is starting to see where this president is taking this country and the massive debt burden he is about to put on us. This is not what the country voted for – and I did not vote for this president – everything the opposition said last fall about this man and his inexperience as a leader - prior to the election is now becoming America's nightmare and reality– we have to stand up now or we will have a country we no longer recognize .All who voted for this man can stand up and say "thank you" for not loving this country and taking us somewhere we do not want to go! Only those wanting handouts from the government and too lazy to go to work can love this leader.. This is not what America is all about..

Come one Powell! You betrayed the republican party. Now you sound words of caution! Obama was a well known LEFTIST in Chicago with the NEW PARTY! The media hid that fact! So change your color to yellow!

Pay for it all? Of COURSE we can- take the $300 BILLION in cost OVERRUNS yearly from the Department of Defense and spend it to rebuild America and we'll have PLENTY left over for deficit reduction. The only ones who object are the members of Congress who get campaign donations from the companies that benefit from the DOD wasting staggering amounts of taxpayer funds and the Republicans who run these companies.

I disagree with Powell, it's called government working for the people who pay them. Either we've got too many people in Washington that can't accomplish Obama's agenda or their qualifications are in question. Let them work for once in their lives instead of vacationing all the time, keep them busy.

It's a little late to sound the alarm, Powell. You endorsed Obama, now you have to pay for his big government programs. We all do –and we have you to thank for that.

Good to see someone with sound thinking. If you have ears to hear, listen.

Middle for diddle. He never changes. Powel is flip flopping as much as Obama. Why?

Everything that Obama has done, was the wrong move evertime.

Anyone can spend other peoplews money. Thats all he does , all he has ever done..

How refreshing. A Republican who thinks and knows how to calmly engage the president with ideas which might be contrary to his own. Thank you, Collin Powell.

He, like so many others, did not comprehend what Obama was telling everyone.

Obama's has a smooth talk about him...most sellmen do.

I give the Democratic American Voters a F in math.

No kidding......where were you before he got elected.

OH................so Colin Powell is "concerned?"

Why didn't Colin Powell 'get it' when obama was running for president?

Did Powell just awaken from a deep slumber?

Why did he back obama and NOT, Senator John McCain, a proven leader of this United States?

Colin Powell was ''supposed to be a Republican."

Powell voted for RACE, and NOT for the Most Qualified, Experienced Candidate. Shame on Colin Powell. He is a disgrace.

Try Intergrated Thinking in lieu of Dictated thinking. The entire Political Field needs a complete revamping !
The American Tax Payers are being "Raped" by the Political Field thru its numerous "Laws", called protection. Of What, the IN House?

Colin Powell is still a republican and republicans don't want Democrats to succeed. Besides, Powell still wants to get back in favor with the republicans. If Powell wanted Obama to succeed he would become a Democrat.

As a mature soldier and diplomat, Powell understands the limits of projecting one's power, but as an ardent progressive, Obama does not. Who do you believe is more likely to be correct in 2012?

Let me tell you something, Mr. Secretary. I am more concerned about YOUR actions as the lapdog for former President Bush and your misleading actions in pushing us into a war with Iraq that was unjustified. You, Sir, have nothing to contribute to the current Administration!

Just where do you get off in commenting about President Obama after your collusion with the disaster that was the Bush Administration?

Be gone before someone drops a house on you too!

I don't understand Powell's concern. Obama has attempted to do all of the things that he said he was going to do while he was campaigning. His agenda has changed very little. Powell, like many other Americans, were so excited to see a young, black, charismatic President, that they failed to look past the facade to see what BO actually stood for. If more Americans had done that, I doubt BO would be President. Unfortunately, he's going to put us in a financial hole that we'll never be able to dig ourselves out of, and we can thank all of the idealists (like Powell) that voted for him for it.

At least, a reputable Republican can give sound and just doubt to the Democratic President. Other critics should take notes on how to criticize and not scrutinize.

It is a little late in the game to start changing your mind General...

Powell should be raising a 5 alarm alert instead of his simple expression of curious wonderment. The Obama agenda is more than aggressive, it is over-committed to the point of suicidal. The president needs a new set of advisers, people who are willing to reel back some of our misdirected projects. The US has gained nothing by its military presence in the Middle East and in Afghanistan – the time for withdrawal is now. The wars are an economic sink hole with a never ending future. It's time to pay attention to home front issues, let the rest of the world do as it will while we protect our shores and our foreign interests with that vast, unused nuclear arsenal at our disposal.

Hey Powell, that's why the republicans opposed him getting elected in the first place! Duh!

This just shows what an idiot Powell actually is. Instead of supporting his own party's nominee, he went with his color and supported NObama. Dumb move, dumb selection. NOW that all the hoopla over NObama is gone, and he actually has to make Presidential decisions, he reverts to his "community organizer" level of experience, and we see the result.

ANY idiot can propose bankrupting America and turning it into a socialist nation. It didn't take a Harvard grad to come up with that stupidity. The Democrats have been working on that for a long time. America just created the perfect storm in its blindness to facts and figures and got carried away with all the symbolism garbage which will now sink our ship.

Powell should just shut up and stay in retirement. He is a disgrace to the Republican Party but would be stupid to become a Democrat now that all the chips are on the table. Thank God he never ran.

too late to be a 'little concerned'. The horse is out of the barn, billions have been spent. Stimulus to create jobs was a lie. The only growing job segment are the new government jobs to run Obama's programs. Now Obama wants to tax my health benefits. He lied during the campaign saying he would not do this. Just another big spending, lying politician. I think you should be "quite concerned"

Gen. Powell makes an important point about the need for caution as we rebuild the American economy and our foreign policy. However, there is a greater need for asserting our confidence in the nation's ability to adapt to these challenges over the next year.

Colin Powell's concern is the concern of most informed Americans. Obama's 'remaking' policies are driving the economy down the drain (over-spending, debt, intrusion into the private sector...), while at the same time stealing our freedoms (higher taxes, more eco-requirements, healthcare...). Obama, if you have plumbing problems, you don't have to tear the house down and start over.

Mr. Powell, the truth is that your party broke just about everything that it touched. You broke it you pay for it.

Well, DUH! Should have thought of that before he endorsed him! I was concerned long before he was elected-that's why I didn't vote for him!!

It's about time someone with some sanity started to speek up about this nut ball president and his spend and tax agenda.

One of the most amazing things to come out of these huge programs is the fact that NOBODY READS WHAT IS IN THEM.

How can these politicians expect Americans to believe they have our best interests in mind when they don't even know what these programs entail and the cost to implement them?

Every one of them needs to be voted out of office. Their gravy train (us taxpayers) should end before more damage is done.

I think Powell's comments are thoughtful and I believe President Obama should reflect on them. I strongly support Obama and I believe that he can succeed, but this will only happen when the American People get on board with Obama's agenda, and I do not believe that the Obama Administration nor his Democratic, Independent, and Moderate supporters are showing enough "fire in the belly". They need to push harder, stronger, and more willful to overcome the Republican's agenda to destroy this President and his vision for America.

You supported him. You voted for him.

Interesting, seeing President Obama is doing exactly what he said he would do during his campaign, health care, green jobs (energy) and education. The only thing that is different is, the mess left by the last administration is so bad it is demanding more money and scaring people and the GOP is pushing that as hard as they can.

You gave him carte blanche when you publicly backed the man. Now sit there and pay for all of it. Too bad it will be the little guy that has to pay it though, not you.

Before Powell gets hammered, as I'm sure some people will do, I'm glad that he shows that you can support the President and not agree 100% with everything that he does.

Great comment Sec. Powell. The President is trying to do everything except be a President. He is on TV more than he is in his office. He has put so much out there it is a confusion campaign with the American people. Put enough out there and no one will understand it. Its time he lead and not just talk.

It's a shame that Colin Powell couldn't have been our president instead of Dubya. Dubya would have been better raising brush on his ranch and then chopping it down. Colin Powell was a great talent, and would have been a great president.

Sorry FOOL...I stopped listening to a thing Powell thinks long ago. You voted/ backed this CLOWN now shut up and live with the disaster he is fast becoming.

With all due respect to Mr. Powell, the president does not seem to be listening. Neither does Pelosi, Reed, or any of the others that are helping the President bankrupt this nation. Mr. Powell needs to try harder if he can have any influence at all on this President before it is too late.

I think this is very telling since most people Dem and Rep and Ind respect Colin Powell.

I agree that the President is juggling too many balls in the air. Once one falls the others are going to as well. He needs to remember that he is human and yes he won the election and I understand him trying to get things done while he still have a high enough approval rating

This Country is starving for changes to help the regular people such as health care, gay rights, abortion rights, clean energy, stem cell research, end of two wars, choice of Supreme Court justice, economic fixes and on and on and on. We were starved for eight years and so many are dying under the enormity of it all, so how do you expect our new President to just sit back and take his time? There's no time left. Thank God for President Obama and thank God for his courage, wisdom, and compassion. Can we just stop criticizing him and start supporting him.

Hello! Thank you Colin Powell what took you so long!

Matter of time before all obumerbots come to their senses

Wonder what is he up to? 2012? To fill the vacuum in GOP?

You supported HIM over McCain for only reason. Nothig has changed there.

Yes we don't need the Nanny State. People can make their own decisions as they have been for many years. When my ancesters came over, before the revolution, they didn't have a big social program in place to fall back on. They had to do it themselves. If the Obama adjenda continues the country will be out of funds, like California is now. Is that what you want?

Gen. Powell is spot on.
as an Obama supporter, I am deeply concerned that they have taken their eye off the ball.
Fix the economy. That's it. Get the jobs number turned around. That's it.
You can do all the other things later and your political capitol will GROW if you succeed.
If you fail at the economy, none of the other items will be possible.
I don't understand how a group of smart people has gotten so off track trying to take on health care, global temperatures, immigration, education. Afghanistan, Iraq, the Middle East, banking reform, etc etc.
It is not possible to do all at once well. Look at the climate bill. A disaster filled with junk and virtually no public discussion. But they got it out of the House quickly. great.

Now he's concerned??????? It's a little late now Mr. Powell!

Colin: I'm glad you were a soldier but not a finance guru. Obama's plans for health care, climate change and schools identify funding sources that do not worsen the deficit. The problem Obama has is that the deficit he inherited from the GOP is $1.5 trillion short for the military, social security, medicare and so forth. This is the problem that the GOP turned from a annual surplus to an annual defict. The only way this get solved is by cutting spending (not much to cut here) and raising taxes. The irresponsibility of the GOP is one in which the entire country will suffer for years on end.

Colin to RNC: "Oops! Sorry about that one."

"A little concerned"? He should be very concerned, like most of americans. Obama has no direction, other than SPEND, SPEND, SPEND.....Oh, and TAX!!!

Is this really a surprise to Powell? The Republicans from the start knew that this is what Obama was going to do, how out of it could Obama be? He supported this guy, and is now "questioning his agenda"? Really, come on, Powell, at least try to be better than that.

Our country feels like a house that hasn't been cleaned, and no maintenance done, for 8 years.

It takes a lot to make this place livable.

Wake up people – all our money and time has been spent (for the past 8 years) on the War to get Saddam "he tried to kill my daddy" Hussein. Plus over 4300 of our young service people lost their lives because of the "W"armonger.

A little late, don't you think?

His agenda greatly concerns a lot of us.

I lost all respect for Colin Powell when he backed color over integrity and experience. Powell directly went against MLK's "judge a man by his character not by the color of his skin".

Buyer's remorse, Colin? ... join the club

The man that should have, could have, would have, been President of the United States.

Well open up our pocket books more. We the american people will never recover from what obama is about to do..

good advice.

The banks, insurance, stock market, auto makers, education, energy, real estate, health care, and other facets of America are all being brought under strict governmental control. Whether you call it humanism, marxism, socialism or communism, it is bad for liberty. The older generation knows it for what is, and deplores it. The younger generation is too indoctrinated by the public school system to recognize anything other than what they have been taught. Seems General Powell is as naive as most American children. Freedom is not free, although the typical American freeloader seems to think so.

1980=1000B of debt
I listed 100B

Gee..imagine that..first powell tries to be obamas waterboy..now the light goes off in his brain and he realizes what obamas programs are going to cost and that the federal government is ballooning out of control and he can't decide what to do..wow..what to do now mr powell??

Powell has always been wishy washy. He's another
Republican who has no credibility.

Again. give us solutions. We're tired of finger pointing.

"The people want their problems solved" and President Obama is working hard to solve them. In my lifetime I've never seen a president so determined to get this country working for EVERYONE again.

It took 8 years for the Republican administration to get it in this mess. President Obama has been in office 6 and a half months.

He's doing a terrific job. Don't criticize him Powell, help him.

Nationalize the Federal Reserve Bank and the Oil Companies and we can pay for everything and more.

I'm a Wasp. I'm liberal. I like both Powell and Obama. Absolutely two of the most able public servants we could hope for. We are fortunate, you haters out there. Time for a diaper change and a nap now.

Powell: "The people want their problems solved (by government),..."

Checkpoint Charlie: And therein lies the problem, in a nutshell!

Colin Powell is a very good man, but he has no credibility on things that matter to most Americans. He was part of the many problems Obama has to solve or find solutions to. He lied while office and did nothing to correct the lies, he could have resigned when he realized all he said at the un was nothing but made up stuff. I respect him as a person, a great soldier, but no regard for him as a politician. He simply went along to get along, look where we are, lots of lives lost and still counting. Keep your political advise to yourself sir.

You know what Powell-most Republicans were "concerned" that this is what would happen when he was voted in. Remember, you publically endorsed the man so it's a little too late for your concern now. Maybe you should have thought about this a few months ago, instead of being "concerned" about Obama's race.

I wish Bush/Cheney hadn't dragged Powell into the Iraq mess at the U.N. the way they did, smart of Powell to insist the CIA director sit directly behind him so that it showed if the information he was relying on to be false or mis-worded the CIA director had the opportunity to correct him, and he did not correct him

but it is still a stain on Powell to have been a part of that lie

shame on Bush/Cheney

Well, lets see how the Libs respond to this! I mean they were glowing in their praise for Powell when he endorsed Obama. Lets see if they are Hypocrites or accepting of his opinion.

so end the WARS so we can afford things that are vital to Americans.

I think that it is unfortunate that a man with so much potential to help his nation has decided to change his course along racial lines and not maintain his political beliefs of many years unlike the staunch republican advocate Ms Rice.

Did he not see this coming? With one of the more liberal Senators being elected to the White House – did he not see this coming? It really makes you wonder if there's any truth in Limbaugh's accusations about Powell's support for Obama in the first place...

Powell in 2012

I see President Obama forcing everyone of his policies on the people and assuming that the price tag would be taken care of by future generations. What that does though is put us at a great disadvantage as a nation, Imagine if you will another Katrina but bigger and in New York the capital of a our financial institutions. Could we pay for reconstruction?
I think not not!
He needs to find a sticking point a legacy and stay with that.
His now or nothing approach comes with too many risks and right now I really dont need that kind of change...
P.S. The argument that if nothing is done about the problems that it would some how be more costly to us then the package itself is getting tired please use another line when trying to solicit money from us...

What? Is powell realizing that you should vote for a president for something other than skin color?

Gee do ya think you should have thought about that a little more before you voted for him you jerk.

It is good that President's Obama strongest supporters are adding their constructive criticisms and observations to the dialogue. There is an intellectual discourse occurring right now between the President and those who support and believe in him. Not everyone within is going to agree as some are going to question some decisions, however these individuals are not like the many in the opposition who are salivating at the prospect of distorting this into one of their ridiculous dime-a-dozen unintelligible catch phrases. The opposition is keen on criticism yet offer few constructive suggestions of their own; these being the case their voices are sadly yet deservedly without merit.

The money belongs to the people, we should use it if it is needed.

I respect Powell, he is the only Republican that I continue to have respect for. However, I disagree with his statement. Since the country has basically 'bottomed out', now is precisely the time to fix all of these issues. America has neglected her own for to long. We have simply gotten to a point where these issues have to be addressed now, it won't be easy, and there will be trial and error. These are massive changes that need to be made to reinvest in America.

Don`t worry-- With all the BIG money now being spent in Washington ( and I don`t mean BY our Gov`t) - I doubt much gets past the Repubs and lobbiests. We`ll be lucky if our Gov`t is allowed to "bid" for cheaper prescriptions for medicare patients, much less a national insurance option.

I like Powell. He'd make a good President.

IMHO: Powell could have had it all but was afraid to come out as a republican and being black too. Enjoy your retirement General.

Did he did not see this coming? I mean I could have told him... Powell is never to late to join the Republicans ... 2010 will be our year again. Stand up for George W. Bush what just happen in Iraq is thanks to the surge Bush put in place and Obama refuses to recognize that...

Powell couldn't get any more liberal. "People want the government to solve their problems" That line doesn't come from a conservative. And don't give me any "taking it out of context "crap. I want my country back! Get ride of these communists! Wake up America!

Colin lost all of his credibility last year. He supported BO simply because BO is black. He ignored all of BO's previous life story that pointed to a radical, radical, presidency, which is now coming to fruition.

Colin Powell helped set this demon in motion. Shame on him and everyone else who blindly followed Barack Hussien Obama over the cliff into the disaster that has destroyed our country.

This coming from a guy that helped lie us into war.

Powell is one of the main reasons Obama was elected. He has no one to blame but himself. Thanks Colin. History will not look kindly on you.

I agree with Powell. The U.S. is headed in the same direction as the
bankrupt state of California. Focus on the Economy and less government, other issues can come later.

Obama is ONLY changing every major industry in the first six months, banks, insurance companies, auto manufacturers Plus 16 czars, corruption, lying, threats, firings (Walpin), ACORN, Americorps. YOUR TAXES ARE GOING UP, EVEN POOR PEOPLE.

Why is it that CNN has to cherrypick and comment on an interview before it is presented to viewers?

Seldom does CNN ever show a complete interview but cuts them up into pieces. Is it because they have an agenda or is ot because they don't think their viewers have the intelligence to formulate their own??

Why is John King who is clearly a republican working in CNN. Why can't he go to FOX... I mean FALSE News.

Well General, welcome to reality! We have been plundered by Bush and the plundering has increased under Obama! Plundering is plundering no matter who does the plundering! What say you, fan clubbers! I agree people did want their problems solved but the government is often a hinderence and NOT the answer!

Finally some sense from this guy...

Finally, maybe this is a Republican voice that can get through to Obama

It looks like someone is making a run at 2012. (o:

The General is trying to re-deem hismself to Rush.

The good news is that unlike our previous President, Obama actually listens to what other people say, even when they disagree with him.

I'm glad that Obama has the benefit of Colin Powell's wise counsel.

With regard to effective governing to solve our issues, I agree with Colin Powell. President Obama recognizes many of the challenges facing our great nation–health care, energy, refocusing resources back to the correct war, etc.

There are understandable concerns in the short-term as these systems are put into place, but the beneficial efficiencies in the long-run will make vast improvements for our country.

For instance, making health care more affordable to all Americans will bring down costs to the taxpayers, as less bankruptcies are filed due to overwhelming medical liabilities from individuals currently without coverage.

Finally, I certainly would not take it to the level of "worrying" (i.e. fear-mongering) that John King pushed, but then again, King has unfortunately shown his true colors to the right lately. On the contrary, I am confident in President Obama's vision to put long-term efficiencies in place for our government.

Finally Powell sees the light on Obama. I just wished more people would see what King Obama is doing to destroy this country. It's time to stop the blame Bush agenda and start making King Obama start to answer to his agenda that is only spend; spend when the country is broke.

Powell has spoken truth to power. He will not rubberstamp radical lib followers as they help Obama steal the future of our younger generation. Dems praised Powell voting Obama, but that was then and this is now. Powell has the courage to publicly acknowledge Team Obama is cornered by their own ineptitude and his grand plans are unstainable.

I love Powell and I trust his judgment. It is probably the person that can give the President Good advise. Keep advise him Powell he needs your help.

And of course he has his own agenda: to please Limbaugh and prepare for 2012.
One question Gen. Powell: Is inaction a solution to the mess of the Bush administration of which you were part?

I am puzzled by the good general and former secretary of state under G.W.Bush. After not supporting the GOP candidate in the last election for president, giving his nod to B.O., and continuing to show support to the new democratic adminstration, his latest comments for me suggests that Mr. Powell is setting himself up as someone who gave the new president the benefit of the doubt, but who now positions himself to wiggle out of it. Why? He sees an opporunity for him in 2012? Or he now senses the folly of this current government headed by President Obama?

Well Powell, you endorsed him. That's what you get for vetting him. If you didn't like McCain, you just should have remained silent and not endorsed anyone. I think over the next few months, more and more peoples' eyes are going to be opened to Obama and his "true" ways. Corruption, spending, intimidation.

what is he concerned about??? Fixing health care? Energy Indipendence? Economy? or Immigration? Is he going to be another roadblock on these issues along with bunch of Lobbyists like AMA, Hospitals, and Insurance groups and doctors....???????

Now will you listen?
Nope. Character assasination of Colin Powell in 3,2,1...

Obama is SO LEFT WING AND SO FAR OUT OF TOUCH that its easy to believe that his actions show such MISSLEADERSHIP.

Obama's actions show someone whis is more concerned with actions that are for all the wrong reasons and which work against the American Values.

Obama's agenda is the destruction of the USA.

Folks who desires no health care or those who can't afford it should be concern about the IRS going after them and being fined $1,000. How's that for CHANGE? And why is Congress being exempt from participating in this plan?

Powell should b proud of what he has done. He has helped contribute to the socialization & bankruptcy of this country. His personal political career is now nothing, his judgement has proven to b poor. GOOD RIDDANCE to him and his descriminating social agenda.

Why is that ever GOP finds spending for the rich by their party is OK but when the Democrats do it for the country it is wrong?

I think that Powel is right, Obama needs to stop and take a second look at all of the things he wants to do and figure out which one's are most needed at this time. You can't do everything at once. He needs to stop being a kid in the candy store. I voted for Obama and still support him.

The fact that you're only a "little concerned" greatly concerns me, Mr. So-called "High Ranking Republican".

You could have been a great leader if you weren't so caught up in color and its effect on popularity right now.