(CNN) - The upcoming White House meeting with Henry Louis Gates, Jr., and the Cambridge police officer who arrested him earlier this month appears to have touched off a fresh debate all on its own: what kind of beer should be served?
Earlier this week the White House indicated each man would drink the beer of their choice - Bud Light for President Obama, Blue Moon for the police officer, and perhaps Red Stripe or Beck's for Gates.
But one Massachusetts congressman thinks another beer entirely should be served: Boston's own Sam Adams.
In a letter to Obama dated Wednesday, Massachusetts Rep. Richard Neal strongly urges the president not to drink Budweiser, now owned by a Belgian company. Nor should the White House consider serving Miller or Coors, Neal writes, both owned by a United Kingdom conglomerate.
Instead, the White House should serve the three men - all with ties to Massachusetts - the local favorite, not only because of its popularity in the region but also because it remains the largest American-owned and brewed beer, Neal says.
But Sam Adams founder and brewer Jim Koch told NPR if it was up to him he would make a special beer just for the event.
"I'd make a blend of ingredients from all over the world. Which is certainly what's represented there with the three participants," he said. "I would blend those ingredients together artfully and harmoniously, because that's really what we all hope for."
Meanwhile, the Boston Globe reports other Massachusetts-based beer companies are also hoping to get their product a space at the high-profile meeting.
Dan Kenary, president of Harpoon Brewery, told the paper they are working every "back-door channel" the company has.
"We'd love to be the beer at this event," Kenary said.
Read Rep. Neal's letter (PDF) here.
From CNN Politics
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Is this for real? Doesn't this MA congressman have anything better to do? I mean, really, we are talking about a few beers here!!
Obama needs to represent Chicago and have some Goose Island.
Or we could be racially stereotypical...
Crowley drinks his Blue Moon (a Belgian white ale),
Gates drinks Koestritzer (A German black beer),
and Obama quaffs a Black and Tan.
Then they all dump half their bottle into another bottle, as a sign of racial equality!
Ewwwww.
CNN stop this garbage news.
America has nothing left. Soon the shirts on our backs will be owned by another country.
IT'S BEER! Move on to something important to worry about!!!!
Sam Adams is not a bad beer but Leinenkuegel is better or perhaps Grain Belt. Being in Germany at the present time I have my choice of the best beers in the world. I don't know what I'll do when I get back to the States.
Going to drag them to the White House to fix your mistake of getting involved in this matter in the first place at least you could is feed them too.
Oh, please. Congressman Neal needs to get to work on the health care plan and not worry about what beer they'll drink.
What is humorous is that Bud Light is even considered beer!
Is this really a topic of national interest? Holy cow, worry about our spending and programs and let the men drink what they want. Get your priorities straight!
Why is Neal pushing a Boston-based brewery when he has plenty of good breweries in his own congressional district? Opa Opa anyone??
Probably this is the last thing on their minds. The whole intent of this beer talk is to formally put an end to this saga. Apparently some of the media savvy congressmen doesnt think so yet! God bless America..
who cares?
I'm sick of this story and Rep. Richard Neal of Mass. should be fired .... doesn't he have anything better to do than worry about what brand of beer Obama is drinking ....
Our country is i a recession, the entire world is is a turmoil, and this is important? Get your priorities straight people!
I recommend Tecate. Although I'm a white male with a family tree going back many, many generations to England, I drink Tecate to express working class consciousness and solidarity with our brothers and sisters south of the border. Also, I like Tecate. Most importantly, it's cheap!
People need to give this a break. There are so many other things going wrong and we should now focus on beer? Enough!
Sam Adams is contract brewed by Miller, just like Pabst. So that brings us to Yuengling or Leinenkugel!! But if Obama is Pro-small businesses like he says he is, then he should serve some beer from the local brew pub!
It's unbelievable to me that this meeting is taking place at all. But it is, and the criteria is that each man "would drink the beer of their choice". Nowhere did it say Richard Neal's choice. Sam Adams may be a local favorite, it is NOT the favorite of any of these three men. Give it a drink, Dick. When you have such a meeting, you can set the rules.
I thought Obama msut be serving the special Koolaid. The the only explanation I can come up with why so many people are in love with the guy.
I am unsure of what is sadder, that this was newsworthy to begin with or that folks have nothing better to do than gripe about what beer is served.
First having the beer is stupid and then complaining about what beer they're going to drink is even more stupid. I bet the President thought that Budweiser was an American beer. Why else would he say he was going to drink it. Surely it wasn't because of the taste. Although I think the congressman from Mass is ridiculous in his assertion that Obama should be drinking an American beer Sam Adams is the one Amerrican beer whose taste rivals most of the foreign beers that someone in Obama's position probably drinks when the rest of us Americans aren't watching. This should tell Obama to mind his own business and leave these type of issues to his surrogates.
CNN, please find some real news. Or relegate this to your sister quasi-tabloid publications/websites.
Thank you CNN for this hard hitting journalism.
Pathetic. I'm sure Sam Adams paid well for this "article" and all but if you guys want to pretend to have even a shred of journalistic integrity you should confine this sorry content to a banner ad, where it belongs!
There are still events of actual importance going on all over the world, but hey thanks for abandoning coverage of events like the ongoing protests in Iran (yes, still ongoing) in order to milk this ridiculous non-story and try to sell some beer.
Well this is a new low for the white house, leader of the soon to be ex- stongest nation in the world, and headlines are being made about his decision to bring in 'certain beers' for a discussion between two men he has no business making time for, and for no reason that he has business being involved with. I'm am seriously considering moving to Europe, sadly enough it's looking better and better.
Really? It's beer! I think the message we should be looking at is that whenever you have a problem, it can be solved by sitting with the guys in the backyard and drinking alcohol...the cause of and solution to, all of life's problems...HA!
it comes as absolutely no surprise to me that sam adams/brewmaster exhibits more sense than our congressman. good for you sam, i'm buying sam adams this weekend in honor of your display of common sense. what a better place this country could become if the politicians and media worried about the important issues instead of things like what kind of beer should be served at one particular event.
My god, really? _WHAT BEER_ is not the issue at hand and it shouldn't be. If they want to drink a beer, then they should. This letter is irresponsible at best, given the issues the men should and would be discussing.
Seems like Rep. Richard Neal is an political opportunist trying to grab some attention for himself. Certainly he raises some perfectly valid points but in doing so he detracts from what should be a somewhat serious, somber and reflective moment as these three gather.
Rep. Neal, this is a pitch that should have been saved for another occasion, now go have a seat at the little kids table.
These guys have it all wrong.
First, they should use an American beer only. That I agree with. But forget Sam Adams. That stuff isn't all that good.
Try a microbrewery from the D.C. area. Get really local.
My favorite (from Atlanta) is Sweetwater Brewery. My favorite beer is called 420. Barack knows all about 420, don't you baraky?
With the economy in shambles,healthcare reform imploding and tax and spend Democrats running amok is the a newswothy story or just another cheesy photo-op for a pitiful president? Great job CNN! Typical liberal media garbage.
Oh come on and get a life people!
Sam Adams is, of course, the best and most flavorful of the American beers. But then, it's real beer, unlike most of the others.
This is why congress has such a low approval rating. Instead of addressing the nations economic problems, national security and health care, Rep. Neal chooses to criticize Pres. Obama's choice of beverage. Congratulations, Massachusetts, you have yourself a real winner.
Are you kiddding??? Don't we have more important things than the beer they choose!
No wonder nothing gets done in DC, focus on the real issues don't create new meaningless ones
Who cares what beer they drink? When will politicians and the media get off this stupid nit-picking carousel and back to to governing and reporting? Have you all completely lost your minds? Snap out it already!
I think the President should be able to drink any beer he wants...just like me. This is America and this petty crap has got to stop.
how about malt liguor ...
Serve lemonade and invite Michele and the girls.
Everybody's got to get in a promotion or try to make a buck and turn this into a commercial event. Let them choose their own beer, regardless of where it's brewed/owned and let them enjoy their beer call and discussions without being hastled for their choices.
I didn't even finish reading this article, I was so peeved by just the first couple of lines. I mean, honest to God, do these people have nothing better to do than create friction? Who cares what kind of beer gets served??? Can't they just sit down and talk? Must everything be about political "correctness"??? This guy should get a real job with real concerns as he's obviously been in DC too long.
Get a life, people. does it REALLY matter what they're drinking as long as this issue goes away and we can re-focus on the important issues: war in the middle-east and providing affordable healthcare to everyone ????
Dear God,
Please help these United States of America???!
Give me a break !!!! A nation in crisis and this is what CNN chooses to put on the ticker.
Children, children, even have to fight over the beer. Nothing more important to do? How about health care?
Okay...everything is not an issue. Sometime it's just beer.
I'd love to leave a comment but I don't even have words to describe how absurd this debate is.
Were it me I would've definitely asked for Harpoon IPA or Sam Summer. But that's just because.... they happen to be my favorite.
I want them all to drink it Conehead style!
Mass quantities!
This is going to be an awkward event for sure. If I were Crowley, I'd be careful because he'll be up against a pair of IVY league elitists and they know he's wrong even though he's right.
Heaven help us all.
I saw a copy of the letter the congressman wrote, and he was not "Miffed". He was only suggesting they serve beer from the largest American Brewery, which just happens to be in his state. He also suggested several other great local beers and mentioned legislation that for tax credits for small breweries. CNN stop blowing things soooo out of proportion to get a few web hits.
Perfect!
Keep the Dems and the Obamessiah talking about beer, like a bunch of frat boys. As long as they leave the running of the country to the grown-ups, it's a wonderful distraction. This is about all the community organizer-in-chief should be responsible for.
He should get Yuengling, its the oldest brewery in America
I think the congressman in question should drink Mt. Dew when he goes out for dinner. I love it, and so should he. Brewed by our local pepsi facility, it has a very sweet, syrupy taste, with tons of caffeine. Oh, he doesn't drink soda? How unpatriotic...he should drink something that symbolizes the work of your typical American, not what he likes!
how about just drinking water, why beer? it is not a good message for our young people.
CNN. I am really amazed at the choice of items that you are picking for your ticker in the recent past. Is this supposed to be news? The "Ticker" has become a gossip column. You had to have something like this since you no longer have anything to write about Sarah Palin, right?
I understand the logic but let them drink what they like. It is nothing worse than eating or drinking something that you don't like and pretending that you like it. Don't ever get between a man and his beer.
Dude. It's beer. We have bigger things to worry about. Let's move on. When is the next installment of Palin poetry? I want to hear more about the "chi-chacos and sourdoughs," whatever in the world that means. (Direct quote from the now ex-governor of Alaska. Yah. You betcha).
Guess they need to find a new beer... best called "Liberal Lager"...
It tastes good.....does not fill you up.... makes you feel "stimulated" and puts the tab on the national debt.
Bud Light is a beer? Had me fooled. Yeah, Sam Adams - can't we all just get along??
The President has already done the correct and polite thing. He requested to know what the guests' preferences were and offered to serve that.
Per Emily Post, one should serve a beverage of the guests' choice, or at least offer a variety that guests can choose from.
As Host, he had done what is proper and expected.
My vote is for O'Douls. That way none of them will get tipsy and say or do something stupid -- again!
Seriously?! This is what we have come to. Instead of discussing the real issue here – something that is so very real and relevant to many living in America today – people are worrying about what kind of beer they are going to drink? This is a sad testament to our society. Instead of focusing on what we can do to improve this situation and learn some lessons from it, we are bogged down with the pointless details. Wake up people!!
This issue on the beer is so stupid! Who cares?
Another example of how pathetic our politicians are. Tell me Rep. Neal where was your television and cell phone produced??? Get serious and worry about things that matter. Help President Obama fix the issues this country faces!!!!
This is what we pay politicians for? To scrutinize beer choices? How about you get back to working on the economy and healthcare?
Clearly Obama respects drinkability more than partisan ale politics
um... slow news day?
so many problems, and now a debate about "BEER", give me a break. CNN needs to get a life, if this is all that is going on in the world!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I am surprised people do not complain/comment about the brand of toilet paper the president uses! Everything Pres. Obama does is under a microscope. I do not ever recall this much attention to other presidents. Bud is a good Chicago beer.
Why not drink Shiner Bock? Nothing like a good cold Texas beer!
Why are they using beer as a peacemaker in the first place? Why put that forth to the nation as a symbol of peace?
I honestly believe this is why this country is suffering as it has been. With all of the important issues going on in the world this is what we're most concerned about? Our elected leaders are abysmal failures. I am not a huge fan of Obama but I did feel this was a nice idea to try and calm the fury that has developed over this issue. Now though he's getting flack for what beer is served. Give me a break.
I'm going to smash my head into the desk several times after reading this story. Is this really what people sit around and think about?
Really? how about, BYOB...sheesh.
The real sad story is drinking "light" beer. Only wimps drink "light" beer. If you really are a true beer drinker you drink real beer. Just shows that Obama is a lightweight. At least Gates drinks a real beer though not American.
This is really a story??? What a bunch of lazy, infantile sloths reporters have become.
This is why we need term limits and on Congress!!! He should be trying to read the healthcare bill and trying to get it passed instead of worrying about BEER!!!
Also to CNN and other news agencies, report on news that matters not crap like this!!!
Shameless advertising. The beers they drink is NOT news.
Hold up, I don't see my 40oz Old English 800 in this picture. This very very so wrong I need to whine about it. Must be a slow day for new.
Words can't describe how ridiculous of an article this is!
This is why we need term limits on Congress!!! He should be trying to read the healthcare bill and trying to get it passed instead of worrying about BEER!!!
Also to CNN and other news agencies, report on news that matters not crap like this!!!
In the world of beer drinkers everyone has a favorite and it may not be the one that local brewers think they should drink. And, in this instance it is only to get free advertising for a local brewer. Give it a rest.
Now this is taking it way too far! Let the men choose the beer of their choice, since it's not about the beer, but about the outcome.
This is not news worthy at ALL.
I never thought I would see the day that I would be saying this, but I finally have to grudgingly agree with Phil Gramm's comments from a year or two ago – we have become a nation of whiners.
Great, what time does happy hour start now at 1600 Penn Ave at the new uhbummer bar and grill. Do the have fried chicken and watermellon too?
Is this a joke? We're actually paying people like this Neal guy to worry about what kind of beer the president is drinking? He should be ashamed to take tax-payer money.
Seriously what's next? A discuss of the brand of toilet paper they each use after they relieve themselves?
Oh give me a break!
What a waste of time, tax payer dollars etc. This whole thing is ridiculous and NONE of Obamas business. There must be more important things for our president to be doing.
Sam Adams is OK. But I like some of our NW beers better. Black Butte Porter is great! So is Alaskan Amber Ale. Serve one of those.
You have to be kidding me, they're debating what kind of beer?
Our gov't at work, wasting time/money and effort on such a moot point.
Richard Neal...get a life.
Should it be served on a red or blue tray? amazing.
This is idiotic!!!!
Wow, I thought the largest American Brewing company was Pabst, but hey, what do I know. It was a big deal when Budweiser sold out.
Beck's is a fine choice as well as Heineken. All others are just horse pizz.
Samuel Adams? YUCK!
Budweiser? YUCK!
Coors? YUCK!
You know something? Some of you really need to get a life!!!! Who cares what beer Obama picked? For that matter, since Obama has been in office, how much coverage has been given to people losing their homes, jobs, etc.? Are you going to wonder next what toilet paper he uses? Give it up, people!!! Enough, already!!
Is this congressman serious? Is CNN serious? Why do we even need to know what beer they choose to drink?! Any mention of what pretzels or chips may be served? Now that would be news.
With all that is going on in this country now they squabble over what kind of beer to serve at a stupid meeting. Kick the bums out.
Seriously, we don't have more important things to discuss in this country than what beer to serve at a meeting at the White House. Last time I checked, we had two wars ongoing, an Economic meltdown, an energy crisis and problems with the sky rocketing costs of health care. How about we focus on something a little more important. This is not news and not important.
Perhaps they can rename whatever beer they drink 'Stupid' in honor of the POTUS.
All over the world?
These three are Americans.
Is that so hard to grasp?
global warming, terrorist, health care...beer choice....
we're stupid...
I like Mr. Koch already and I've never met him! I don't drink very much, but I will now give Samuel Adams a try! I think his offer to blend a multi-cultural beer for this event is the greatest idea ever! That is what America is after all, multi-cultural – to have a beer to celebrate that diversity is a wonderful idea!
How about an Iron City Beer!!!
I have absolutely no doubt the very same scenario that brought this story into view happens on a daily basis around the country . . . why is the President involved at all?
If a person (ANY person) is witnessed breaking into a home, and then refuses to identify themselves when apprehended, that (derranged or arrogant) individual deserves everything the police bring forth in making the arrest.
Dave Barrett
Norco, CA
Most Americans dont care about taste or where a product is made as long as its cheap,like themselves.They have no National pride, like most other countries that try buy homegrown products made by their own workers.
Want to know why the Congress is held in such low esteem? Look no further. I commend Professor Gates on his choice of Red Stripe or Becks. For all you do, no Bud for you!
Are you kidding me? Now we are going to let the government tell us what kind of beer to drink too? This goes right along with the socialist movement in the country. Americans, get ready to say goodbye to all of those freedoms you have enjoyed that were paid for with many lives. Why did we bother sending men to die to fight against communism? That's exactly where we are heading. The government knows best, right?
Should we not then drink scotch because it's named after another country or drink Corona because it's from Mexico, etc.? I'm actually surprised that we haven't heard very much from the teetotalers on this one.
It seems that, no matter what, somebody will be upset or offended. I say drink what you like. Everything doesn't have to be a political statement!
people please, let's talk about something with some thunder, healthcare, economy, the wars, energy
That a Congressman felt so compelled to write a letter to our president over his choice of beer is just laughable to me. Rep. Richard Neal, I think there are more important things in the world to focus on than what beer our president does or doesn't drink. Positively ridiculous.
the president should not have gotten involved in this mess in the first place. It shouldnt matter what beer they chose as that is not the point of the event.
It's beer. Why does everything have to be controversial. I have my favorite and it's owned by an overseas company. Each attendant should be able to drink what they like. Not have a beer that is an unknown to them. Just makes for a more comfortable setting.
Who cares? Does Rep. Richard Neal have nothing better to do, if not I think the voters in his district need to consider a new canidate next election......
Sam Adams is owned by Budweiser, which is not located in Boston.
Really important stuff. huh
Doesn't this congressman from Massachusetts have anything better to do than worry about what beer the president is drinking? Those companies may be owned from companies outside the US, but they are still employing many Americans.
How silly is the request, perhaps this is the choice of the guest.
Why not a 40oz Brown Derby, people need to get real.
Oh for the love of god everybody just grow up.
is this really news?
oh, right, another obama puff piece from CNN.
Sam Adams is my favorite beer, but the men should definitely get a choice. Beer is a personal thing. Just stay away from Billy Beer.
I think the beer event is awesome – I cannot believe a MA Representative has an issue. They picked their own beers. This was NOT about politics and state promotion. It was about personal preference – not everyone likes Sam Adams and not everyone likes Bud Light. Just because you're from MA doesn't mean you like the beer brewed there. This has nothing to do with any state or any political endorsement. I think this is a unique/cool way of handling this whole thing. What a breath of fresh air.
This is about the most stupidest thing I have ever heard. Trying to push your choice of beer over theirs. People will do anything for a story. Trying to make this controversial because the beer is not made in the USA. Anything to critisize. STUPID!!
Give me a break! Why is this newsworthy? I guess the media can now fabricate some controversy from this and thus keep us tuned in!
I have a right to choose what I drink - You have a right to choose what you drink - They have a right to choose what they drink.
Some of you people are petty and hateful. It's a free country.
can we please drop this subject. who cares what beer these guys drink for this purely PR event. this event is for show and helps only in allowing the president to get beyond what he said. one beer each is not going to affect the sales projections for anyone. i'd sooner have wanted to see a true airing out of the underlying issues, rather than this photo-op. race remains a serious issue in the culture of america, because we still have people who choose to behave badly; no matter the color of their skin, their gender, class, or profession. serious issues deserve better than a photo-op.
OK THIS IS CRAZY. What national concern is it what dang beer these men drink. The POTUS is trying to make a point here in this meeting and what the media is highlighing in a Mass. Senator lobbying for the local beer company. Really that is where we are on news.
BUT.........as a beer drinker and a Milwaukeeaen, the idea of custom Sam Adams beer is very tempting. Sam's is very goos and that is an offer I couldn't or wouldn't refuse. And this is a decision of the drinkers and noone else.
CHEERS
Should we really be spending ANY time worrying about this? It's a meeting that shouldn't even be taking place.
It could get embarrassing should Sgt. Crowley enforce the public drinking ordinance.
..One of the reasons I love America so dearly....what a story:)!
Interesting to see that the Massachusetts Congressional delegation has so little to do that they can complain about other people's beer.
why is this news?
There is no need to make a "special" Sam Adams beer for the event. The Boston Lager is simply superb.
Finally, a news story that doesn't reek of doom. I think the Pres should drink whatever beer he likes. I don't think his beverage has to symbolize anything, really. That said, I personally think Bud is a terrible beer, and that any flavor of Sam Adam is great.
Seriously? With all that is going on, with all that needs to happen to revive this country, their are people worried about BEER? What a non-issue. Is this a joke?.
Gee- I'm so proud-
Obama is truly a class act; a one-man show all of his own.
come on-–a beer fest? what's next frat parties?
There are a million beers to choose from oh course someone will find offense...But no matter what his choice... President Obama is awesome....
Union made and bottled in the US should definately be a must!!
Puleeze.....get back to work on something important, like defeating the healthcare debacle.
Aren't these people paid to work for their consituents? That is why this country is in such a sad state of affairs. Who cares what type of beer they drink. The fact that they are meeting is the important point. Richard Neal needs to get a life.
Give me a break. Fix healthcare, not beer choices for a get together!
Isn't it obvious? The men attending the meeting should be served thusly:
Fill a pint glass 2/3 with Bass Ale holding the glass at a 45 degree angle. Upright the glass and place a teaspoon on the lip and fill the remainder of the glass with Guinness by pouring it slowly over the back of the spoon.
Its called a Black & Tan – an excellent libation that exceeds the sum of its parts.
Who gives a crap! Fix the economy! What a waste a time by this stupid president. His smooth talk has run its course. Now we are finding out the real Obama.....actions speak louder than words and he doesnt have any action.
Might I suggest Mad Dog 20/20 or Pabst Blue Ribbon for the two black men?
who cares? they are probably drinking what they LIKE. I guess that sentor has nothing else to think about these days.....
Really?? With all that is going on in this country this waste of space Representative is writing letters about about what beer should be served at this meeting? Writing letters because the companies are owned by conglomerates in other countries. For crying out load, it does not matter what is served.. Focus your time on more important matters.
Want to bet this guy drinks French wine and drives a BMW or a Mercedes? Not a ford or a Chevy.
This piece turns my stomach. Why is this news? Where are the Cronkite's of our generation?
I think we have much more important things to worry about than what beer the President is having.
Why is this even newsworthy? Who even cares what kind of beer they will be drinking. I just hope the police officer doesn't break down and apologize. I don't feel he did anything wrong.
The only site where there is this type of so called "touched off debate" is at FOX aka CNN this type little thinkers nonsence is their usual daily chatter / they spend their time starting and continue dwelling on this day after day .
They have never heard the word Journalism all attended same 5 colleges that Palin attended .
Yet again I must beg the question, why in the world is this a news story?? Can't we see some interesting, ground-breaking journalism? Perhaps corruption in government, scientific breaks, how badly CNN and other media outlets do their jobs?
Seriously people get a life, let the men drink what they like! Dont have real problems to solve here?
Seriously – Americans are just weird......a debate over which beer the President is drinking???
Get a life.
Sam Adam's
Oh for crying out loud, people need to get over it!
Who cares what kind of beer anyone person drinks? It IS still a free country, last time I checked anyway.
Why don't they find something useful to do other than gripe and moan about every tiny little thing?
And really–is ANYTHING 100% American-made these days? Sheesh.
slow news day CNN?
My goodness if they were drinking water someone would complain.... Budweiser was built by Americans (it may be earned Belgian now but if we want to be on the band wagon of global expansion not all companies here will be owned by us), it employees tons of Americans, it pays American taxes and is the top drinking beer in the country. Plus Rep. Neal should know that beer is a personal choice thing, once you find a beer you love you don't care what conglomerate owns it once they are not terrorist......
Hooray Beer!
Enough with all this minutiae! The US is crumbling, why do we care about what type of beer they drink?!? Rep. Neal needs to get a life.
On a serious note to this subject if these men can sit down to a beer and relax, set aside pre existing biased notions and opinions and learn what the other person is really about and leave the evening with a renewed sense of non racial tension that will do more good for our country than what brand of beer it is LOL. Lets please learn to accept and love one another.
Isn't there better things to worry about than what type of beer people are drinking?
There are wars, an economic crisis, health care, and so on... It is like the Jackson coverage.
I am all about supporting local beer companies, especially microbreweries, but it is implying they people are un-American for drinking beers now owned by out of country corporations. Budweiser didn't have to sell off to a Belgium company and Miller or Coors didn't have to sell of to UK companies.
Oh well. For the rest of you, drink microbrews, I like foreign beer too. support everyone
How about some nice iced tea instead of beer?
Politicizing some guys trying to settle a matter over beer. I for one would have ordered a Coopers Extra Strong Vintage Ale (Australian).
Hopefully the next story in this whole saga is about the seating arrangement for the meeting tonight.
With all the problems we have in this country, you would think Richard Neal would be more concurend about matters of importance. Health Care for one. With the new proposal for health care, what will really happen to the older generation. I beleive they will not get the meds they need because there will be cuts in Medicare & Medicaid. So in the end meds they have been getting probably will be denied. So does this mean the die because the are old.
Personally, I think Obama shouldn't drink Bud Light because its low-quality swill. He should give Goose Island 312 (a local Chicago brew) a try. Although, I do like the brewmaster's idea of the special blend.
Really? This is breaking news?
Listen to this drivel. Is this what we pay these idiots for "miffed over choice of beer". I wonder why this nation is in the state it's in.
I am glad Rep. Richard Neal has his priorities so in order. Deciding what beer someone should be allowed to choose would be one of the first things on my task list if I were ever elected to public office.
Is there anything these days which doesn't result in some kind of controversy? Gimme a break.
Is this really news, There are plenty of Beermakers in the US, my friend down the street is a Beermaker and a Retired Marine. Can he get the contract for the Beer?
Really? This is what congress is worried about. Health care reform will never happen, these people are yokels. They couldn't reform a paper bag if they were given a pair of scissors.
If all our congressmen have to do is to worry about which beer is served in the white house, we need to reduce the number of congressmen and elect a few who worry about health care and the economy!!!!
Ginny
To Massachusetts Rep. Richard Neal: Get a life! It's beer. Not a national security issue. How petty can you get!
A debate? Seriously? This is news? CNN – the new frontier in tabloids!
Most American microbrews are way over-hopped these days. Crikee, everyone and his brother makes an IPA. What's up with that? More lagers are needed. Have a nice day!
With all the tremendous problems that this nation is facing we are spending our valuable time getting upset over what type of beer to serve at this meeting. Race relations are indeed an issue that need to be discussed but beer just shows us how far we still need to come to address real issues in our time. Until we pull our heads out of the sand and decide to fix our problems we will continue to fall short as a real example for the rest of the world.
Why did you call Gates by name and not the police officer by his name? He has one too.
Good God. Of all the things to complain about – the choice of beer at the White House. Rep. Neal doesn't need an August recess, he needs to be fired.
this is important?
Another Massachusets government-knows-best liberal whining about buying or patronizing something American. While I love and voraciously drink Sam Adams, I'd prefer not to have Mr. Nealy dictate what beer I should drink or what's served in the White House.
Here's an idea. How about no beer being served? After all, the President is on duty. The military and everyone else are not allowed to drink while on duty. How aobut a cup of coffee? Maybe a Coke or Pepsi? Oh wait, that's not manly. How about printing some news, not junk? Now, there's an idea!
who cares? I mean really who cares.
There were three top stories on CNN website today that pertained to beer and the president. Don't we have more important things to focus on and report on than Beer. Who cares what beer the President, police officer or Mr. Gates chooses to drink during their meetings. Who cares when the economy and country are falling apart and in danger. Get a grip! Let's worry more about the future of this country and the people and how to get back on the road to recovery and less about beer.
wow, people have too much pride. who cares what other people choose as their beer? i'm not 100% sure, but i think this dem is a christian, no? this dem needs to remember that pride is a sin.
is this really what this congressman is most concerned about? Get a life and do your job............
This is America. He can drink whatever beer he wants. Also, doesn't Richard Neal have more important things to worry about?
Let's get back to real news CNN. Clearly, what choice of beer served is not a "hot topic" worth discussing. There are more important things to report.
wow ... we really need to pick our battles. this is just stupid.
Apparently Jim Koch realizes his Sam Adams beverage offerings are inadequate. I suggest he try one of the offerings from Deschutes Brewery or one of the many other fine producers in the Pacific Northwest where premium ingredients for beer are a way of life.
Oh please give us a break – worry about the economy and stay out of problems that should be handled locally.
I guess congressman don't really have enough to do these days, when they have to concern themselves with what kind of beer the President of the United States drinks. There are a lot of people in the US that have jobs making Bud. Come on get real.
CNN "stupidly" allowed this article to be written.
I guess the next thing is to debate what paper to wipe with, give me a break.
Just another example of how the MSM is in Obama's pocket. If it had been anyone but Obama doing this, they would have been all over it about how what a waste of time this was an how he should be focused on the economy; but since it's Obama, they fawn all over it. Truly pathetic.
I hope they kiss and make up, so we can try to move forward!!
So Rep. Neal doesn't think a man should be able to drink the beer of his choice. I guess he thinks we shouldn't even sell beers that aren't American owned. How stupid is that? Maybe he should look at how many people Bud employes in the US. But the main issue is that in America a man should be able to drink whatever beer he perfers, even the President.
The freedom of choice, isn't that what its about here in the United States.
OMG!!!!! Is he kidding???? This has gotten way to much publicity, people need to get over it! The cop did his job & Gates was an idiot for not showing the cop his ID. Next......
PLEASE ... It's a couple of bottles of beer. The important thing is to put this issue to rest, not to make a beer commercial!
If 3 people say they prefer 3 different beers – what's wrong with letting them have their choice. I applaud Sam Adams' approach, but let's remember what the important sentiment is supposed to be here!
I can't believe what a totally dumb story this is becoming.
We have people living on the streets, children going to bed hungry, people without jobs to support their families and the main story that we are hearing is this meeting and what beer they are going to drink.
Just the cost of this PR episode would help feed those in shelters or elderly meals on wheels.
Let's grow up and put priorities first!
Prof. Gates should sue. You cannot just excuse illegal behavior by the arresting officer who entered the professor's home without warrant, treated Prof. Gates rudely and roughly, and who lied on his police report.
The 911 call makes it clear that the neighbor reported that it could have been the owner with a suitcase who entered the house. Crowley's behavior was over-the-top by all accounts and especially when he arrested Prof. Gates who is easily recognizable to any thinking person who reads or watches PBS.
Red Stripe be from de Islands, make you forget your troubles,be good beer for all.
Live slow and easy mon!
Pointless. Everyone has their preference. Who cares?
You can't go wrong with a cold Jamaican Red Stripe beer......and Jerk Chicken!!
Seriously, folks, why does everybody think that they can tell the president what to do? He can't choose a beer that's not brewed in the US? I'm glad I'm not a Dem.
If this is the best he can do he needs to be voted out of office, and further more the President having a beer with the Officer and a scholar is not going to solve a 400-Plus year old problem
This is what politicians do instead of actually working on laws. So petty!
You have GOT to be kidding me. This is what people choose to care about?
Say it ain't so, Mr. President. Bud Light? Ugh. The esteemed Professor Gates isn't much better with Red Stripe (although a FRESH Becks isn't too bad.) At least Sgt. Crowley chose Blue Moon, a brew that's not a bland pilsner.
Sam Adams, Boulevard, Full Sail, et. al. are among a plethora of superior world-class American brews that have been shut out of the beer summit. "Don't be afraid of flavor, my men!"
I think that I am going to live in another country. This is beyond the pale.
Come on...this issue has been influenced enough by partisanship and propaganda. I think it should be left alone, and just be about 3 guys drinking their beers of choice. Not because there's some intrinsic, ephemeral, propaganda-friendly undertone and hidden meaning in any of the beers, but because they're coming together as 3 equals (in principle, though the Prez is undeniably the VIP) enjoying a common interest and making progress by discussion.
I was really surprised Obama didn't go for a Tsing Tsao or Asahi, given his admiration for communism. Maybe he could sneak in a few Cohibas to make the event "special".
Why is this news? Who cares what beer will be served when the 3 guys get together? And who cares that the president enjoys a Bud Light instead of Sam Adams? This is not a sponsored event.
Somebody please give Obama some GOOD beer! A nice Rogue Dead Guy Ale or Terrapin Rye Squared would be a good start!
This whole thing is ridiculous and is getting worse by the day....
Right On Sam Adams Summer Ale would be the perfect beer in this situation. Very Balance a harmony of different flavors. Just Perfect
Umm... Guys? Health care reform, economy, Iraq/Afghanistan, H1N1 virus... any of those items ring a bell?
If an elected official feels the need to send a memo to President Obama in regards to what should or should not be served at this meeting, then so be it and to each his own...
But with all jokes and sarcasm off the table, can the conversation about who will be drinking which brew wait til later on?
You've got to be kidding me, right?
No wonder bumper sticker politics is so effective in the United States. Anything more complicated than the choice of beer is shaken off by those who think reality TV is reality.
Will we now have a breaking news story on the brand of toilet paper preferred by the Obama family along with vociferous criticism from outraged congressmen dancing to the tune of hate radio?
Red Hook ESB, maybe?
What they really need at this party is some good Burbon! They'll all be best friends after that.
Are you serious? I'm really just going to stop reading the news, not because I don't like CNN, but because people like this Congressman choose to take issue with even what beer the men drink. I'm not saying that I am mad at how this is considered news, I am saying I am sad that it is. All the recent news, in fact, everything that has happened since the President has been elected, unfortunately tell me that even though he was elected, the United States still isn't ready for a African-American President.
As if this entire situation weren't ridiculous enough....
Oh man, now we are arguing over what beer the President drinks? Well, might as well put in my two cents: if Obama likes Bud he might as well just drink water
I too am disappointed, but not as much as by the fact that the crooks in the Senate are successfuly stalling health care reform.
Really? Rep. Neal you really wasted time and paper on this? Wow. Glad I don't live in your district.
Is this really news-worthy? Food and drink are personal preference. I personally do not care for American made wine – I prefer Italian. Does that make me un-American? Why does everything have to be political? Should I be shunned for not using American made clothing as well? These 'news' items that are being published are getting a bit ridiculous.
Get back to work Neal.
It’s truly disheartening to see members of Congress wasting time and energy on trivial issues such as what kind of beer the president prefers. We have elected these people to tend to the serious business that America needs them to pay attention to. In addition it would be nice if the presidents fellow Democrats would support him instead of criticize every little thing.
With all the money we owe them it should be a Chinese beer!
Honestly, people do nothing but find fault with everything. It must suck to be the president.
I only hope these three men put this issue to bed once and for all, because the media frenzy surrounding the issue is over blown.
The real problems facing the country deserve all of our attention, not these two clowns having a beef because of thier over blown ego's.
I think its fair to say the only way to go is Pabst Blue Ribbon.
OK, I am sorry but I thought I would never hear myself agree with President Obama on anything, but please...beer! This is America, you drink the beer of your choice.
How rediculous that now the debate is about the brand of beer. This country has a beer barrel full of serious issues that need resolution including the economy, healthcare, education, budget deficits at almost every level of government in the US as well as many households, and discrimination in almost all categories yet to be put to rest and yet we focus on the brand of beer and other equally as unimportant matters.
Stop making such a big deal out of such minor things. What does it matter what beer they drink? The President likes Bud Light... Let him drink Bud Light!!!!!!!
I say to Rep. Neal " Go back to the real work voters asked you to do and stop spending our taxpayers' time worrying about what beer people should drink. People have no health insurance, people are losing jobs. Stop wasting your time. Who's your boss? You should be reported. I know I would be."
I only hope these three men put this issue to bed once and for all, because the media is having a field day driving wedges between americans in search of ratings as usual.
The real problems facing the country deserve all of our attention, not these two clowns having a beef because of thier over blown ego's.
Why didn't he address The President as President Obama?
this is so stupid. who cares what kind of beer he drinks? Does that congressman not have anything better to do with his time then write a letter to Obama in hopes to change his drink preference. I'm sure there is something far more important he could be working on...
I think we have forgotten the reason President Obama arranged the meeting. It isn't about beer.
Wow, now the president isn't even allowed to drink the beer of his choice.
I think the whole thing is rediculous! I can't believe that someone is accually wasting there time on this! So they are havng a beer together! Who care what kind of beer it is?? REALLY!!! you all have WAY too much time on your hands!!
Rep Neal needs to wake up or get a different job. To make an issue out of the brand of beer to be served at this meeting is absolutley absurd. Rep Neal, ...go work on healthcare, the economy, the war, or the scores of other problems facing this nation and quite wasting the taxpayers time and money on drivel.
HMMMMM...brouhaha brewskys!
The White House etiquette manual prescribes the 3 B's for brews, NO:
1. Belching
2. Bellyaching
3. Boxing
When they belly-up to the bar a litle toast would be very appropriate. I cannot recall such a 3-way toast being had since Roosevelt, Stalin, and Churchill met. Maybe someone could come up with a suitable one?
This is turning into a comedy. Well a little laughter is good for the soul. Anyway, I think Mr. Gates should stick with the Jamaican Red Stripe. He won't regret it.
Give me a break - get back to work guys - all of you, the press, the congress - really, grow up and leave it alone for Christ's sake.
I don't recall such a frenzy of slurs and speculatoins when our former veep, Cheney, SHOT A JUDGE IN THE FACE AND DIDN'T CALL THE POLICE FOR 12-15 HOURS. WOW, I think that would have been a REAL story, but you guys in the press and congress apparently were ASLEEP during that story.
Give me a break.
This president has become a complete joke.
This entry shows the utter idiocy of this entire thing. Even the beer choice is politicized! This should be behind closed doors, with no cameras – just three men working it out.
The Belgians do make better beer than Americans, but Bud Light? Come on, Mr. President? How about Guinness, a microbrew, or at least Sam Adams Light?
This is the dumbest thing I've ever heard. This congressman obviously doesn't have enough to do.
Oh for God's sake. We're not socialist yet. Freedom of choice of beer prevails for now.
It makes me sick to see our tax dollars being waisted by the president that WE HIRED (VOTED) TO BE THE PRESIDENT to run our country, not get involved in such a trivial issue. Man up President Obama and lets start taking the job serious.
Typical reaction of a Boston Liberal.
Bud Light for the Win!
This is so stupid. Now even the beer makers want their 15 minutes of fame. I surely hope this is the last time we have to deal with this type of circus. Ridiculous!
This is so absurd but I bet the beer companies are liking the free publicity!
why did i read this article.
While Bud is now owned abroad, last time I checked it was the largest union run brewery. The President might be weighing that into the equation.
POTUS should not be encouraging beer drinking. I have a 9-year old son and this doesn't set a good example for him, coming from the President. Lemonade, ice tea, soda or coffee would be more appropriate.
CNN, why have you reposted this non-news? This entire story is getting absolutely silly if not downright stupid. Everyone's getting offended by something, as if everyone has a God-given right to not be offended. This me-me-me attitude and this kind of trashy tabloid journalism are two of the many reasons why our country and culture are going down the toilet.
Wow, CNN, you are hitting us with the fine in-depth journalism that makes the modern media such pinnacles of respect: Obama holding a peach, a quibble over what kind of beer should be drunk at a meeting, and Obama's likabiliy when he waves.
What is the president's stand on non-fat milk? Will you be putting that hard-hitting insight into the ticker today also?
This "thing" is UTTER NONSENCE. 1st – obama should stick to what he was elected to do, 2nd – why is he promoting beer. Don't we have enough acohol problems? 3rd – he should be spending his free time with his family – not in the spot light instigating more race problems. 4th – get on with the job he was elected to do – GET OUR ECONOMY BACK ON TRACK – ie; get us out of the mess he's helping foster. STOP SPENDING MONEY WE DON'T HAVE.
Mr. Koch should make the special blend for Mr. Neal – and all of the other members of Congress.
Why not serve Capitol Brewing Co. beer? Made right in D.C. Keep the local beer economy going.
Personally my choice would be "Rolling Rock" with Miller Highlight a strong second...
Let the men choose whatever beer they want and keep the politics out of it no matter how tongue-and-cheek this article is. It's about pro-choice (Beer that is). To Congressman Neal, if the Prez wants a Bud, let him have a Bud – Bud!
As a homebrewer, I couldn't agree more. They should definitely go for the American craft brewers. Besides supporting the local businesses, President Obama could find out what a real beer tastes like, rather than the watered down, tasteless mass produced beers.
Does anybody at all care?
I really don't think the White house should have a problem serving any of those beers, since they all employ U.S. workers. And Coors is a jointly owned U.S./Canadian company. You think a congressmen would have staff who could use Google or even Wikipedia to check these things out.
My husband agrees with Rep. Neal!
The men should drink whatever they want, since the purpose of the meeting is to get together, talk and come to some understanding.
It's not a product-placement opportunity! Grow up, folks!
Really??? Let them drink whatever they want! Apparently, they do not like Sam Adams since no one requested it!! People are too much these days!
Um, does the senator from Mass. not have more important things do with his time?
Why is this news CNN? Who cares what beer th Prez drinks
This is why most of think Congressmen are idiots.
Are you telling me that a United States Congressman has nothing better to spend his time on then to write a letter to the President about the beer he prefers to drink??? I would like to think he has slightly more important issues that need his attention.
This is turning stupid. It's just a beer, let them have their pick. Can't blame Sam Adams for taking a crack at some product placement. But come on, let them have their favorite beers and discuss what matters without getting sidetracked.
ITS JUST BEER!
Come on, the whole point to the meeting is to quell a complete misunderstanding that was overblown by every person invovled.
Does it really matter what beer they prefer? I strongly urge Rep. Richard Neal to find something better to do with his time.
Give me a break!! Who cares what kind of beer the prez and "guests" drink......I think this whole thing sets a bad example for our country. If we sit down to solve problems (especially one that Obama created), it should not be over an alcoholic beverage. Why not a nice glass of tea or soda?? What a role model.....
GIVE ME A BREAK!!! Drink the beer you WANT to drink! Uggh.
At this particular time in history we have congressmen who take time to argue about beer selection? This is absurd and we, the taxpayers, are paying for his time. I think Mrs. Clinton should chime in and say how good for world relations it would be if Mr. Obama would not change his menu choice and drink a foreign owned beer!
Totally ridiculous.
So the message here is that the best way to settle a dispute is to sit down and take a drug together. Frankly, having spent a fair amount of my youth in bars, I've seen more disputes escalate than get settled with alcohol. Cheers often leads to a punch in the nose. On second thought, maybe they ought to get good and drunk and then duke it out.
What's funny is that Officer Crowley's choice of Blue Moon is much more snooty than that of the high falutin' Professor Gates (Red Stripe – icky). Now who's the elitist?
I think obummers the worse president ever so far, but this is ridiculous.
Criticize his spending disasters, his soon to be health care disaster, but let a man choose his own beer!
Now type of beer is a political issue? Offering one's guests their favorite is appropriate. Of course, if our President had not felt the need to weigh in on the police/professor issue without all facts, no one would be worrying about what type of beverage was offered.
Puh-leeze. Don't people have something more significant to worry about? Let the men drink whatever beer they want. This isn't a State dinner, its three guys having a beer. If they want to drink Dos Equis or Heineken instead of Bud or a Coors knockoff, they should be free to do so.
What an embarassment to Massachusetts.
WHAT IN THE WORLD IS GOING ON!!!??? Who gives a hoot what kind of beer they drink. It's foolish for this to even be going to this. Dr. Gates should have cooperated more. The officer should have been a bit more lenient perhaps, BUT I WASN"T THERE and neither were all but it appears 5 or 6 people. The president should have never become involved.
EVERYONE BUILD A BRIDGE AND GET OVER IT!!!!!
Seriously? People are getting their panties in a wad over what kind of beer people like?
People are too uptight about the most mundane stuff these days.
Leave it to a politician to try to screw things up... Let them drink the beer of their choice.
Apparently, Rep Neal has so much time on his hands that he can take on the overwhelmingly important issue of what beer will be served at the White House. Man, I wish my job would allow me so much free time !.
What a shame some lame Congressman tries to make this situation a marketing ploy. Beer is a personal choice, not an advertising choice. Besides, some of the best beer comes from overseas.
Is NOTHING safe from politics! If Rep Neal was being serious, this is pathetic.