CNN

The President has restored the United States to a place of honor among the nations of the world. Our country became a pariah under Bush. That has changed and for that alone President Obama is deserving.

President Obama would have caught hell if he did not try to get the Olympics here and he caught hell for trying. He is catching hell for an award being given him by others without his or our input. He is simply the receiver of the award. Others nominated him and others voted to select him as the winner. Our population had nothing to do with it. Grow up people and face the music. If President Obama had a BLT for lunch today most of you would be trying to ban bacon, lettuce, tomatoes and bread tomorrow claiming that he is pressing the consumption of them to make money to take over something else. This is not the country I was born and raised in. I was born and raised in a country where we are proud of the accomplishments of our citizens as they perform in and around the world while representing our country. Either we get it together and start working as one or we will find our nation becoming a lawless third world nation. I pray that my time ends before it comes to pass for I cannot live to see my country fail because of the stupidity and ignorance of others.

Ya know, maybe the south had it right. Better to secede than continue in this charade of a government. Kennedy and Reagan must be spinning in their graves. Those without jobs, without goals, without ambition and without moral compass, certainly have the wherewithall to help with our continue decline as a society.

My only bright point is that there will be a revolution in direction in the 2010 election. Hopefully, independents will come to power and repudiate the excesses of this and prior administrations. It's not party, it's greed and power.

A new change, is evidently not a better change!!!!

Congrats Mr. President. Regardless on how you won it. There are people out there feel that you are making the best effort for peace. Be humble as you are, but don't be ashame of accepting this prestiges award.

the republicans can just eat their hearts out, the man is about inclusiveness, he should get the Nobel for his health care reform, why should the insurance companies get richer, congress may strip themselves of all the perks, it is not patriotic

I would like to congratulate the President for receiving the award, and for what he has chosen to do with the reward money. He has shown nothing but humility in accepting this award (which he did not even ask for).

To all the people that are trashing Obama because of this and saying that he didn't deserve this, here's a thought, before you say something stupid, actually READ the statement that Nobel Prize Committee gave for giving him the award before criticizing him about it (I know this is asking a lot from most of you as you rely on Limaugh, Hannity, Coulter, or Beck telling you what to think, but you might actually learn something).

Here is the Norwegian Nobel Committee’s statement on awarding the Nobel Peace Prize for 2009 to President Barack Obama:

"The Norwegian Nobel Committee has decided that the Nobel Peace Prize for 2009 is to be awarded to President Barack Obama for his extraordinary efforts to strengthen international diplomacy and cooperation between peoples. The Committee has attached special importance to Obama’s vision of and work for a world without nuclear weapons..... Multilateral diplomacy has regained a central position, with emphasis on the role that the United Nations and other international institutions can play. Dialogue and negotiations are preferred as instruments for resolving even the most difficult international conflicts....""

In other words, he does not immediately jump to the conclusion that force is the best response, he tries to use peaceful means, kinda like the name of the award. (By the way he inherited the Iraq and Afghanistan mess, so you can't really lay those problems at his feet)

What a joke. Do nothing and get an award. I guess this has trickled up from school policies where every dumb kid should pass and every loser gets a trophy. I guess the top loser got his today.

LONDON (CNN) - Did President Obama land a Nobel peace prize at such an early stage of his presidency simply because he's not George W. Bush?

Yes he did. You idiots. That is the point. Barack Obam was chosen because was the best not George W Bush availble. Why should he not get credit for it? He does a much better job of not being George W Bush than McCain would have done. Although I must say that McCain would have done a much better job of not being George Bush than Romeny of Guliani would have done.

All you knuckle dragging right wing non- patriotic (that's right I went there your President has won a Nobel Peace Price and you are not proud???), morons out there are asking "What did Obama do to deserve it?" you should be asking how did we get a President in George W Bush so horrible that, after only 8 months in office the new guy get a Nobel Peace prize for not being him? I hired Barack Obama scecifically to not be George W Bush. So far he has done a great job. I hope he keeps up the good work.

If one who could think the BAD should be stopped, he has done a good thing. No need to wait for the GOOD to come. Even God could not accomplish anything the way people on this earth wanted. If the GOP stops hating the President, they will clearly see that the president deserved the prize. The DEMS didn’t give the POTUS the prize, so the GOP should not look for the answers from the DEMS. I don’t care who the POTUS is, if the POTUS is awarded the Nobel Prize, I am proud of being a Citizen of the U.S. I don’t understand why some people cannot do it.

What do the RNC stand for? All I see is what they stand against. Why don't they do whats right for the people for once. You're like dinosaurs waiting to go extincted.

The criteria for distributing the peace prize is questionable to say the least. I'm sure however that obama will be as proud as his undeserved award just as hitler was when he won his in 1935.

The American Taliban a.k.a The Republican Party is frothing at the mouth because America scored big time.

When Obama was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize – America scored, and the American Taliban a.k.a The Republican Party booed their President and their country.

When world opinion about America rose from an abyssmal 10% or less to over 80% – America scored... and the American Taliban a.k.a the Republican Party booed him and their country.

When America lost the bid on the Olympic and lost potentially 300,000 jobs, the American Taliban Party a.k.a the Republican Party CHEERED!

When President Obama, showing true compassion and godliness, sought to provive healthcare to ALL Americans, the American Taliban cursed him and called him Hitler and all sorts of nasty names...

The Republican Party is Godless and they hate this country. The Taliban has its counterpart in the Republican Party. They both hate America and will do anything to destroy it so long as they promote their own selfish ideologies.

To those who are so shocked about Pres. Obama being awarded the Nobel Peace Prize; believe it, accept it and go on with your lives. The republicans continue to belly-ache and show their dirty behinds. Or they ever going to wise up.....Obama won't be in office forever.....just for eight years!

I believe if he had any shred of dignity or pride he would return or refuse this award. To think that they have people like the Gates' and Warren Buffet who are spending their own money to better proverty stricken countries and helping actually bring about peace yet they pick a man that has done nothing to deserve this award is disrespectful to the previous winners and to those deserving. He had someone in his pocket to win this and you could tell he was not being honest or sincere when interviewed today. He chooses to keep this award although he is not worthy. I guess he was never a military man nor believe in the code the cadets at Virginia Military Institute do. "A cadet does not lie, cheat nor steal and will not associate with those who do." You Mr. President are Cheating other well deserved people out of something that you have no right to. To have respect you must earn respect is a line I always believed in and I do not respect you Mr. President.

Sniffit, I would agree with you, except Teddy Roosevelt was a Republican. It was in an age when Republicans were respectful and respected for giving a darn.

President Obama changed our National Priorities from the republican agenda and that deserves the Nobel Prize.

All this does is cheapen the previous award winners and bring to light just how little Obama has actually accomplished. Peruse the other nominees for the award and tell me that Obama belongs among them.

Some of you whining act as if OUR President somehow asked for this award! And the woman who wants to 'investigate' the Nobel Committee for corruption – what do you think, that the US controls the Nobel awards? Call Parliament over in Norway and tell them you want to investigate them...hahahaha good one!

I also am stunned that Huckabee says the left can 'explain' how OUR President, Barack Obama, merited being nominated two weeks into his Presidency....uhhh....Call Norway. We don't (and can't) explain it to you – he acts like somehow the 'left' is behind this evil deed. I can't even type anymore I am so angry! I keep thinking the GOP can't get any lower or more stupid, but they always do! I am just outraged by this BS! IT IS A NOBEL P E A C E prize! I give up.

Barack Obama does not deserve Nobel peace Price. Al Gore did not deserve it and neither Yasser Arafat. Barack Obama can dance with the nobel peace price and now he wants to give the money to charity. What kind of charity? Perhaps Accorn? Barack Obama has lots of money from his campaign. He did not even pay HIllary's bills. In any case I have least regard for Nobel Peace prize committee. If Alfred Nobel was alive today, he would make sure that above persons would never receive it. It is the mockery of peace itself. Why should they politicize this event. They are a bunch of jokers.

I am a huge supporter of the president and the democratic party as a whole. I am also from Chicago and I am proud we have a president who calls Chicago his home. However, I dont see how Obama deserves the peace prize. I also object to the obama supporters here that do believe he deserves it. The nobel peace prize is a ridiculously high honor and I believe it should go to someone who has earned it. A president who is bogged down in two wars and has done little to improve relations with enemies is not deserving even though I dont know if improving relations with some countries is possible. Again, i am a steady supporter of Obama and as liberal as they come. However, I feel embarassed as a US citizen that Obama was awarded this honor. Does anyone agree?

I think President Obama deserves the Noble Peace prize because he beat John McCain and Sarah Palin last November. If those two were in the White House the world would be a scary place – you betcha!

To those opposed the award they can rest assured the prize didnt come from their cheque book. So they can continue cherry picking on other issues. To those celebrating the award they can atleast look up in the sky and say atleast their work no matter how minimal is not in vain. There is no work without hope

To the Obama-hating terrorists...

...I pray you won't be heckiling our President much longer...

...May the rest of the world band together...

...to make you ALL extinct...

The GOP have become a national disgrace. Congratulations MR President. The American people are honored to have their president recieve this award. Thanks to the rest of the world for seeing what a great President we have. We are proud of him and of America. Gop R.I.P. You are the party of discontent and liers.

Oboy, another chance for Republicans to show how much they hate America!

that pretty much sums it up! that's the best take i've read it on it all day!

Come on, what the state department said was 1st true!!! 2nd in response to the statement made by the rnc and 3rd not disrespectful in anyway. It's the same ole same ole, the repubs want to throw dirt, and then when someone throws it back they cry fowl. Pathetic!!

I praise God for President Obama receiving such an excellent honor. We pray for him all of the time and I know the world is haapier than some of the US citizens. Congratulations Mr. President on turning this nation around. I want to see my country with positive instead of negative for a change. I love my president and I hope that he does not take to heart what jealous people are saying. God bless and keep you President Obama!

Here's a fact that may make a thoughtful person pause and think – The two groups that are most indignant about Obama winning the NPP are Al Qaeda and the GOP...

Isn't that interesting...?!

'Better to be thrown accolades than shoes'??

It is also true that it is better to be thrown a bone than shoes. Yet Congress will not toss me a bone by putting a halt to this socialist-leftist bent we're on!

1. Teddy Roosevelt was a Republican. Maybe not by the standards of the current Republican Party....but he was a Republican President.

2. Always in the past decades we have been proud of anyone in this country receiving a Nobel Prize in any category. Suddenly it is different? I realize the committee based its vote on the hope of Obama reuniting the US with the other world democracies. When did Europe become elitist? We took in their emigrants for centuries. Most of the world is happy to see the US try to become part of the world community. It does not mean we tolerate tyrannical regimes but that we want to work together to try to make our world a better place for all. We can do better by concensus than by unilateral action. We can't police the world. It is just not possible. Our democratic friends resent it and the autocratic governments hope we will be spread too thin to do any good. If the President or any other member of the government can generate goodwill among our friends in the world...great! Why criticize it? The unreasonable hate in our country needs to end.

If Obama walked across the Potomac River live on all the major networks, in front of a crowd of spectators on both sides of the river, the immediate GOP reaction would be "See, we told you he can't swim!"

Obama getting a Noble Peace prize for things he "may" do just goes to show how irrelevant this Prize has become.

Nobel meant for this award to go to someone who achieved great thing in the preceding year, not for future accomplishments.

What has Obama done other than not get a shoe thrown at him?

This almost seems as a bribe. You got the award so you must do...what? Good luck enforcing sanctions on Iran, Peace Prize Winner.

If it turns out that he truly ends up doing nothing, and it looks like it's headed in that direction, does he have to give the award back?

Ha ha ha. More appropriately, better to have $1.4 million thrown your way than a pair of shoes.

Most people know that it's just politics.... look it up, ALL of the people on the Nobel award panel are Norwegian politicians.

I guess I should win too for good intentions.

I bet he keeps the money as he has never given much to charity relative to his wealth. Easier to take from us and give to others than to walk the walk.

I'm very proud of our President and the tone he has established in both his domestic and foreign policies, and I applaud the fact that he himself acknowledges the award as being a call to action. Let's get behind him because what's good for the world is also good for America and Americans.

I believe calling attention to the difference between these two presidents treatment is appropriate. Let's reflect honestly-do we want to be seen as the nation that inspires the world again, or do we prefer being received with the kind of hatred and anger demonstrated by the throwing of a shoe? Peace has been derided for so long we hardly consider it a real possibility anymore. A new way toward Peace is what President Obama embodies and represents. It is why he was awarded this honor and it honors us all for having made the leap of faith, of thought, and of courage to elect him. I know I'd rather be recognized for that than having a shoe thrown at my head- and I don't think it was a bad idea to remind us of how recently that was the case.

Trust Lou Dobbs tonight to give no credit to President Obama for his Nobel Peace prize – gee – what a shock – calls himself an Independent – biggest non biased reprter ( and I use that word losely) ever televised – except for Rush – CNN – why do you even pretend to promote him as an Independent. Hope Cafferty does not fall into his realm – although must admit I have some reservations – Cafferty was the reason I kept watching CNN – thought he was unbiased – starting to wonder.

It may not have been entirely diplomatic to bring up the shoe thing,
but – in my opinion – the truth of the statement is unavoidable.
Altogether obvious.
I am a white anglo-saxon American man, but I get a big kick out of it when the rednecks are going really bonkers like they are right now!
Come out from behind the bushes, rednecks, so we can know who you are!

Appearing now on CNN..TIME article about the truth. The Nobel Peace Prize is awarded to he who most loudly opposes George W. Bush. The Nobel Prize process is a total joke. Obama has yet to make any contribution towards peace. It's just a way to slap Bush yet again.

Wonder what would be the reaction in case, Cheney received it today!!!

"Accolades rather than shoes". Another opportunity seized by the left to bash Bush so as to obscure any real issues that sould be discussed.

Wow the thuglicans are really making America look good. I can't believe how low they are willing to sink to spout their tired vitriol. I keep hearing the conservatives on this board talk about the upcoming sweep they will have in 2010. Sorry to break it to you, but Americans are tired of your hatred and aren't in such a hurry to have more of it in our government.

To set the records straight, our President has begun to restore America's good name throughout the world. You're all so stuck on this game of cowboys and indians that was started by Bush, that you can't see it. Hopefully in a few years, when our economy is strong again and we are no longer the bullies of the world you will see it. Though I doubt it.

This award was bestowed by the International stage not what President Obama has done for the USA. People are so stupid.
Congratulations Mr. President. The World loves you it is sad you are disrepected here in the USA. Republicans get a life.

well said state dept. look at these haters on the right, are these people americans? remember when someone protest the war they racists on the right called them anti-american and other names , now look at these republicans, i wish all republicans crash on the road while driving and die soon so this country and world can be a better place .

Amen State Dept. enough said

Let's be honest. Obama hasn't done anything but read speeches so he won because he's a liberal, because he's black and because he's not George Bush

"for his extraordinary efforts to strengthen international diplomacy and cooperation between peoples"

BTW, As an American I didn't appreciate the office of the President being disrespected when GWB had sandals thrown at him.

While I like President Obama and find him a massive improvement over the recent shrub disaster, in all fairness, he has not time to do anything worthy of so prestigeous an award.

I am afraid the Nobel committee has always been rather political or eccentric in its selections, ignoring many of greatness. As an example, the following literarys were alive during the Nobel prizes, but did not get it:

Leo Tolstoy, Anton Chekhov, D. H. Lawrence, Ralph Ellison, Milan Kundera, Franz Kafka, James Joyce, Jack Kerouac, Anna Akhmatova, Arthur Miller, Edith Wharton . . . and the list goes on.

For Peace Prize, dubious war-mongering winners include Yasser Arafat and Henry Kissinger. None for Gandhi.

If you look at who won and who didn't, you will find it hard to take the Nobel Prizes seriously. Remember, Henry Kissenger and

Diplomacy, hope, the attempt at peace, it's a shame some view these virtues as wek......
It's a shame that one can be more appreciated away from home, and a prophet is received mostly out of his hometown.......
Sec. Clinton has her work cut out for America, and it's exciting to see America hard at work handling these tough times......
Obama/Biden 2012!!
God Bless America!!!

I'm a Democrat through and through and I believe President Obama is taking us in the correct direction. Having said that, there are 2 things I don't understand about this Nobel prize: 1) Obama seems to have gotten it because he is not Bush – is that a good enough reason? 2) Even if that isn't a good enough reason, all the people who are trashing Obama for this are really trashing the United States of America – why wouldn't any SANE person be glad that our president, Democrat or Republican, got one of the most prestigious awards there is?

Nice one SOS Clinton! lol
I think I was initally shocked because i believed the award was given to someone who had a history of accomplishment such as making a huge difference through events, writing, or some type of communication avenue that bettered man, or mankind's living situation...not just for a moment but a proven track record of making a difference.

I understand this is to keep the momentum going universally...but it still surprised me...either way...congrats to our President though I do pity you for the pressure this has now put you under.

The Bush well, at this point, has run dry. References to his administration to justify your own missteps is weak at best . Let Obama stand on his own merit.

In reading this article, I do feel that President Obama is trying to pursue peace; however, I feel that there are more qualified people who deserve the award than him. This is NOT a race issue, just pointing out that there are others who have done more than he has. Examples of this would be Jimmy Carter, Bill Clinton, etc. I think that once the president has a few more peace accomplishments under his belt, then he will have proven himself. It does astound me how this one article has turned political party against political party. As an Independent, I must say that this is a real turn-off big time. Finally, as for Hillary Cllinton's comments from the State Department, when will she learn that the campaign is over with? She has proven to be the most divisive person in politics, right up there with the former president. I don't think her "tongue" is really helping out her party. I will admit that it is causing me to re-think about voting for Obama in 2012.

What is wrong this country? First of all, Pres. Obama was given the by a committee outside of the US. Now, if people in this country are so insecure about this award (including the republican party) they need to get a life. Stop being so anti-American! Go for the win! What do you want-THE WORLD IS FLAT...........We are not going back in time. I pray that he will make this a better place for all of us.

The republicans are likely going to face the same fate as the federalists, but the ideals they have won't die that easily, the party itself likely will.

How is Obama's presidency a token presidency? Unlike Bush he's actually doing something instead of letting his cabinet do everything while he plays mini golf in the oval office. What I think you should be worried about isn't whether or not Obama's doing anything, but whether he's doing too much too fast. I think he has the right idea, but I'm concerned that the system might not be able to keep up with the rapid changes he's implementing and potentially burn itself out. To his credit, he's already prevented the situation from becoming a neo-depression, but the real work will come with building the economy back up, and I'm not sure that the country can afford so much reform in so short a time.

There is I think one potential effect of the proposed reforms that people have been overlooking, job creation. For starters something this big needs a lot of people to manage it, and if the plan itself succeeds then the increased demand driven by newly insured people who otherwise had little access to medical services would spur a need for more nurses and doctors, who would in turn require more equipment to perform their functions, computers and other electronics amongst other things.

In short, it could help revitalize the economy, BUT ONLY IF it's a sustainable plan that can generate more funds than it consumes, and that would depend on just how much it spurs sales.

Well, you can counter comment ALL YOU WANT...

but it still doesnt change the fact that this statement is TRUE.

Congratulations MR.President... it appears hope and inspiration are the few rewardable intangibles these closed minded individuals will never understand, yet the WORLD seems to get.

I'm am republican but can we stop taking sides I am an American and am pleased he recieved an award that may help give us more respect and influence although I am having a hard time seeing where he got it and all those people who are telling republicans we are being whiny and rude consider what you may have said about George Bush who had a lot to deal with and you guys still trashed him

The GOP is unAmerican.
It criticizes the President of the United States when he is honored with the Nobel Peace Prize.
It cheers when the United States loses its bid to host the Olympics.
It obstructs health care reform that most Americans want.
The GOP is clearly prepared to throw the United States under a bus just to make a popular President look bad.
Shame on the GOP.

OUR Forefathers would be proud.

The rhetoric from both major parties on the Nobel has been pathetically juvenile... that said, this was actually kinda funny. Funny in a "ha ha" way; not funny in a "won a peace prize while ordering the U.S.military to kill civilians in Iraq, Afghanistan, Pakistan and Somalia" kinda way.

What's the sense in arguing the point? Rebublicans will spew vile hate filled diatribes and Obama fans will spew idiotic catch phrases but Obama will still have the Award for accomplishing nothing.

It is amazing. Who is really behind this guy? All the money and no experience and suddenly pres and no NBP???? I think this really lowers both the office of the pres and former NBP winners. What a joke.

Congrads Pres. Obama....granted it may not seem like he's done alot for America but he's headed in the right direction and would have done a lot more if the Republicans would get out of the way. For example, the public health opition he wanted would have eased a heavy burden on poor and middle class Americans but that was crushed by those who could care less about them.

His message is SO important right now and if you think a message isnt important then you need to open a history book. Both Hitler and MLK both had messages that shaped history in two very different ways. The power of a message is linked to the people who follow it. I hope the American people stick wth him (that doesnt mean agreeing with everything) cause I've seen your alternative and all I have to say is 'WOW.'

Anna (London Ont, Canada)

Nominated just twelve days after taking office. TWELVE DAYS! My gosh, how anyone with any intelligence at all could ever again take this award seriously is a mystery. I think there is FAR MORE honor in being hated by an Iraqi thug then being loved by a bunch of corrupt, America-hating elitists.

President Bush and Vice President Cheney, you never got this award because the two of you are PATRIOTS. The people who really understand what America is all about miss you more and more every day.

When the juvenile GOPers grow up, maybe they'll be able to claim something higher than governor of a state.

Until then, y'all just keep bickering and snivelling.

Congratulations Mr President. May the SupremeTeacher's Wisdom Guide you always

Republicans celebrated the loss of the olympics as a slight from the international community to Obama - tho now we have learned more about the pereception and errors (arrogance–imagine that!!!) of the AOC. Now they are freaking out over the Nobel Prize which demo's int'l respect for Obama. Obama correctly spread the kudos around. Big lesson here is that there is international adulation for an American populace that had the collective wisdom to put the right man in the job as leader of the free world. It aint all about us!!!!!!! When you throw your weight around, the world weighs in. Get over it - the USA did not have "dibs" on the fate of Iraq - just muslcle. It si a big world and a big planet, Bigger than Alabama and Wyoming, etc....

As an Obama supporter, I offer the president my sincere congratulations, and I hope he will endeavor to earn the award by pulling out of Afghanistan in the careful way he has done in Iraq.

Obama drives you reps crazy doesn't he ? The world loves him and it drives ya'll crazy ! I think it is safe to say that the giving of this prize is going to DRIVE YA"LL MAD !!! Huckabee is like WHOA ! PUT THE SHEETS DOWN ! THE WORLD IS WATCHING ! WHOA !!! LMAO !!!

One veteran GOP official puts it bluntly: “The image of a bunch of white guys booing an African-American president is about as bad as it gets.”

The Obama haters are absolutely apoplectic about his receiving the Nobel Peace Prize. Good, I love it! They are haters and always will be. Even if Obama accomplishes everything he has elected to do, and continues to restore America to the standards for which it has been revered over the years (until Bush and Cheney destroyed it) they will continue to hate him because they are just - haters. You Go, President Obama, you have made us proud and will continue to do so. God Bless You and the U.S.A.!!

thanks geecee

can not think of a truer statement. Our president did not ask for this award and made a nice speach to say he did not deserve it. But I am proud that the world views us in a better light than it has and shares our hopes for the future. It is too bad that the right has once again shown their true colors and their really christian attitude. If this doesnt get some people fired up it should. Yes for America and it\s President. Congratulations!!!

This is a freaking joke.

I am sad to call myself an American in today's world. We are a laughing joke to the world as it is. And now....we have a president that hasn't proven anything in his first year win the Noble???? HAHAHA.....I will laugh along with the rest of the world.

I can't wait for 2012 to get rid of this make believe president!!!!!!!

Z

I congratulate the president on the award; now it's time for him to earn it!

On another note, it would be great if people would just stop complaining about the 2000 election. Gore never was president, he never will be president. Get used to it! You've had over eight years to come to terms with it already, and you got Obama at the end of it! You got your liberal president, so keep your mindless, bitter complaining on the inside.

That was a riot! I LOVED watching that little pip squeak TWICE duck out of the way of those shoes... PRICELESS!!!!!

There are Americans who want their president to fail. It is not for us to decide whether Obama deserved the Nobel Prize; the committee that decides those things has decided. Obama's achievements do not match his hopes – yet. The appropriate response for any patriotic American would be to say "I'm going to do everything I can to make sure he deserves the award by the time he leaves office, even if some people don't think he deserved it this year.

Perhaps the committee was expressing a hope that the United States will throw it's massive influence behind every realistic hope for peace in the world. We are in a world that cannot support its exploding population. Severe climate and weather changes are inevitable due to the inaction of every American administration after Carter. The climate will get much worse before it can get any better – and a lot of things are going to have to change for any hope of success there. Billions of poor people have limited access to education, medical care, rewarding employment, and access to the pleasures of life that we take for granted.

While we want to spend our time squabbling with oil producing countries over our access to their oil and squabbling with a few million Islamic militants over who God is. However, we do not have the luxury of doing that.

The Nobel Committee is – perhaps – challenging America to live up to the award that was given to him in our behalf. If they are not, then we should pretend that that are and act accordingly.

HRC is no Statesman! (or Stateswoman...)

Better to be thrown Shoes than to be Ridiculed!!!

sniffit- Teddy Roosevelt was a Republican.

I would like to congratulate President Obama for being awarded the Nobel Peace Prize. What an inspiration he is. A man that is trying to help lead everyone to peace. All people. What is so shameful is that some Americans are so full of hatred they can not be happy for our president who represents all of us. Maybe now they will see the world is watching, and is re-acting.

The (sanctimonious obnoxious buffoons) are at it again....
President Obama should not be apologizing for receiving an award he didn't campaign for.....It's evident that the members of the Noble Award Committee were watching him for a long time....His award is more about his persona/character than anything else......Not being Bush didn't hurt either......He is more than worthy, and I humbly submit that I am more than thrilled to have him as my president, at this time in history......

P.S........Who are any of you to dare say it's too much too soon?......You said that when he ran for president.....Let me tell you, right wing nuts, and others, this man is destined for greatness......All the Becks, joe the hecklers, Limbaughs, Hannitys, Foxes in the world can't derail him......For this term, and the next (if he so chooses), he will be your worst nightmare......President KRYPTONITE is in the House........

I think the most notable thing the President did to earn this award was his fantastic and ballsy speech to the Muslim world. He showed respect and he laid out a plan for peace in the Mideast. What the speech did was connect muslims worldwide to this great man and effectively helping to cut off much funding for al quaeda and the taliban. Even those extreme groups are now having to play the propaganda card to elevate the Hate levels back up to where they were under Bush, but even that is not working well. You can measure a body count, but you cant really measure how well a great leader paves a way for the climate of mutual respect necessary for PEACE. Having grown up in the cold war era of making more and more nuclear bombs, I am so relieved we have a leader who wants to end the threat of nuclear war.

The Ugly Americans:
The Obama Haters, GOP, Right Wingers, Birthers, Big Baby "Rush", Tea Baggers, Repugs, Death Panal Palin, Becker Head And Hand, Will Never Be Please, No Matter What!

when a man or woman knowingly accepts an award that he/she has not earned (it was earned by another individual) then it is not an award accepted honorably and will only bring shame.

if the President earned the award .... then stop the rhetoric and just list the accomplishments that lead up to the award being given to the President .... it should be fairly easy since the Nobel Committee deliberated for 6 to 8 months on their decision.

Sniffit, it tells me that the world recognizes these Democrat Presidents for their willingness to sell out their own country.

Well when you go around and apologize to the rest of the world for believing in democracy than I guess you do deserve a prize. It would have been nice to see this award actually go to someone who actually earned it.

The fact that this administration is still talking about Bush 1 year later is pretty pathetic, it's good to see they are trying to move foward.

But it seems like every administration has their embarrassing moment. Bush's was probably the shoes while Clinton's was the whole sex scandal thing, remember that Hiliary. I'm sure Obama will have his too.

So now they are "dumbing down" the Nobel Peace Prize"....

The President's speech was very gracious and self-effacing. Nice to see some decency from Washington.

The Republicans are already doing their typical bashing. What a shame they hate so much. You can bet, their hate-America campaign will backfire once again, and they will be seen for what they are - perpetual losers always on the wrong side of human progress.

Seriously, you GOP'ers....give us ONE PERSON from the GOP who should have or could have come even close to being nominated for this award.
Again, the GOP....Party of NO...with NO alternatives and NO hope.....and evidently the party of 'NO' Peace.......how base to attack a person winning an award for Peace in this World, when the GOP solution is to invade and propagate peace by intimidation.
And again, you GOP wise sages...give us some names who SHOULD have won the award.......or just shut up...your jealousy shows.

Is it true? The GOP wants to add Norway to the 'Axis of Evil' and Sarah Palin is calling for a troop increase in Sweden?

An award that epitomizes human brilliance and creativity which closes the door to conservative stagnation but opens the door to CHANGE.
Good job, President Obama!
I am looking foward to another 4 years.
God bless America!

I'm Also Very Surprise By The Vote, But I'm Also Very Proud and Happy For America and Our President!

Congratulations Mr. President

This serves as a referendum to the republican blowholes who oppose this President at every juncture, regardless of whether the majority of us in the USA and the rest of the world support him.

The youth are paying attention...GO OBAMA

The Republican's are the least diverse, most hateful, intolerant political party. I haven't heard anything positive coming out of their mouths for at least 10 years. Most people of color look at them with scorn, they are turning droves of women away, young people think they're uncool, and their followers appear dumber and dumber. They will soon be extinct.
You would think that even though they are on the slow side, they would realize that it is great for America that countries around the world are finally gaining respect and admiration for America again and it's all due to President Barack Hussain Obama!

This serves as a wakeup call to all Republicans and NeoCons in general.

The President did not ask to be nominated but he was and due to the fact that he is not a NeoCon who goes to war blindly; he was awarded the peace prize.

What can you guys say for yourselves? Are you all waiting to implode? do yourself a big favor and begin the implosion process.

Congrats Mr. President! There's much work to be done and pay mind to the evil doers, they have nothing good to say or do but watch people suffer with glee. Eight years of go it alone, invasion and the suffering of humanity have not taught them anything. They will never learn and their evangelical aspirations are only that of a white washed tomb.

sniffit – not all Demo, the Roosevelt that won the prize was Teddy – a Republican, but forward thinker! Congrads to Obama, I think that he deserves the award for attitude toward all!

Congadulation President – but what did you do in the 12 days of your office that led to this peace award

It Was Only Fitting That Former President (Thank God!) George W. Bush Got A Shoe Trown At Him. He Should Be Thankful That When It Was Thrown, It Actually Missed The Mark. It Could Havd Also Been Used To Give Him A Swift Kick In The Ass!

The number of nutcases that we have in America and around the world is truly amazing. Fanatics, eagerly willing to abandon their free will and bind themselves in service to another.

Elevating a man to Sainthood, falling in line to worship him as though he himself were the Chosen One, the Anointed One, the One We have all waited for !

Instead we should be elevating each other not an individual. Elevate the individual and you will give him power over you.

Wakeup America before it is too late.

Ignorant hateful rants from run amuck right wing nuts deserves the response they received. Bravo Madam Secretary. Bawhahaha.

Way to go President Obama! Your continued success on the world stage makes us PROUD to be Americans again. I haven't felt proud in a long time. Disregard all the negatives....you make us feel POSITIVE!

I agree with the statement that the State Department should not have referenced the shoe incident. And I agree that with valid critiques such as motivational vs results. But people like Linda C scare me. As a veteran who fought for this country, I learned to respect the offlice of the president, no matter who is in there. Because who is in there is there by the will of the people, which is our democratic process. We should be proud that the world recognizes us as the leader that we are. For those that feel the same as the Taliban and Alqaida seems to hate this man more than they love their country.

Fantastic line. I'll be laughing at that all week. Come on, Repubs, spin that!

Those of you bellyaching about this are idiots. We FINALLY have a reason to be proud of our leader, after eight years of being embarrassed in front of the rest of the world. Give your President the credit he is due. Congratulations Mr. President!

The Party of No, the Republican, the GOP knows no limit. Our President has won the recognition of the World for his efforts toward world peace, and the Republicans complain. This is worse than their applause of Chicago's loss of their Olympic bid. The GOP is a disgrace to America and all Americans.

Great line! you go Hillary!

The republicans who criticize President Obama really need to pull their heads out of their rear-ends, the air is better out here, and you can actually absorb reality when your nose isn't tucked inside your colon. I read the criticisms in the comments, and I would ask the writers to read their own comments because they whine without saying anything specific. That's the republicans problem, they have no idea what they're complaining about. Tokenism...socialism...fishy...what are you idiots talking about. How embarrassing.

The Olympic commite felt sorry for the uSA as does the rest of the world, therefore they gave the Nobel to the world loser. He will go down with the rest of the ignorant democrats.

Evidently somebody feels he deserves this. If it's there and they're willing to honor him – so be it. Rather than complaining, the GOP needs to re-build itself to be taken seriously by the MAJORITY of the people who elected him and citizens of the world. Face it – today's Republican Party is a pathetic shell of what it once was. I don't dislike or hate Republicans as a rule – I just pity them.

Here's a start: Don't tear into health care reform. Just come up with a better idea if you can.

Was that shoe thrower really an Islamic extremist?

Good indirect way to get this jab in at the Bush Crime Family (Mike Malloy). They richly deserve shoes and a good stint at The Hague (World Criminal Court) for their multiple crimes against Humanity and this Earth. Remember New Orleans? So many millions still suffering all ovwer this world due to these heinous Crimes for MONEY! Democrats and Eric Holder, where are you? You are the ones who took the oaths to uphold this Constitution. Why do the poor go to your contractor prisons while the rich get to take another vacation? Get with upholding our Laws!

Ladies and gentlemen, The President of the United States of America....Barack Obama!!!!! That never get's old! In fact I could listen to that all day and not get tired of it! No matter what happens or what is said about him, this man is just as, if not more, a historical American figure than George Washington himself! He belongs on Mount Rushmore! Isn't it a pity that you inferior,Republican, halfwits, will never be able to change that? Awwww, duzums have a boo boo! Here's a tissue! WAH!!!!

The Dems don't like the conservative criticism of Obama, but they quickly forgot the vitriol Democratic leaders, TV talk show hosts, and other libs poured out on Bush for eight years. The state department is as unprofessional in its comment about the "shoes" as President is when he whines publicly about Rush Limbaugh. I wish the division in America was not so deep and mean-spirited, but liberals sowed for this throughout Bush's tenure.

the shoes comment is tacky. he's gone, let it go.

An award that epitomizes brilliance and creativity.
Good job, President Obama!
I am looking foward to another 4 years.
God bless America!

This is an award from one socialist country (Sweden) to what it hopes will be another. In your dreams, Sweden!

This is agenda driven by a secular progressive group on unknowns and shady characters in back room meetings. Obama still really hasn't done anything yet. Except travel around the world on the apology tour, and try to push bills through congress that still haven't even passed yet.
This doesn't really look that great for Obama, and it's a black eye on the Nobel Prize it self.
This committee is a joke, and a laughing stock.

Congratulations Mr. President. I personally do not care what the haters have to say. I am proud to finally have the world gaining lost respect and admiration for America again. The party of no and the right will continue to be the laughing stock of the world. Their group is getting smaller and very easy to pick out. Ha, ha!

An award that epitomizes brilliance and creativity.
Good job, President Obama!
I am looking foward to another 4 years.
God bless America!

I heartily congratulate the American people on the Nobel Peace Prize awarded to your President.

Some of you need to look at this, outside of the boiling pot of politics which is now your political norm.

President Obama's Cairo speech was inspiring – setting a new tone of encouragement and respect to the rest of us who inhabit this globe. His actions since that speech legitimize his intention to live up to that new perspective.

He has re-energized the United Nations.

He has engaged the world in conversation and enthusiasm that maybe, just maybe we can come together in a more cohesive group of humane peoples.

He has rejuveniated the positive image of your nation.

Be proud of your President!

BTW, note that BOTH Hamas and Israel endorse this selection!

I just like President Obama. I like how he loves his wife, I like how he smiles with his big ears, I like the father he is. I like that he has tried to live up to his campaign promises.. Heathcare was one of them.. remember.. I like that he can multi-task.. and still get in a game of basketball. Oh I recognize that he has made errors.. but I still like him. Am I surprised he got the Nobel Peace Prize.. Yes!!!! Is he surprised he got it? Yes!!! Why is it so difficult to just stand behind him and support him in these extraordinary difficult times. He is the President of this Country for 4 years get over it and do something to contribute to this country instead of the immature bashing that goes on daily.

Wow I always thought you had to do something worthwhile to get the noble peace prize. This kind of cheapen it.

Congrats to our new President, a statesman, pragmatist, intellectual and all-round good human being. This is a new era for America....moving from one where isolationism reigned to one where multilateralism is the order of the day.

You have my unyielding loyalty and commitment as a citizen of this wonderful nation. This from a newer immigrant who wants to keep this country the decent place it is for citizens of all nations who abide by its laws and have freedoms available nowhere else on earth!

donttreadonme

the US hasn't had sovereignty in the World for years – so – yes respected would be a good thing.
Amazing the difference between how the US viewed itself the last 8 years and how the World viewed it.

I think a lot of people who suggest President Obama didn't deserve this award need to look back at what he's accomplished during his lifetime so far, and not just during his presidency. You may still not agree that he should have gotten this award, but at least you'll have a better understanding for just how much work Obama's done for our country, for international relations, and for peace up to now.
President Obama – my deepest congratulations on your nobel peace prize. You have worked tirelessly in your first 9 months as President to help turn this country around, and I believe there is still much that you and we will accomplish together as Americans. Don't listen to the haters, they're just afraid of real change.

Sniffit
The US has seen 5 presidents get the Nobel….ALL DEMOCRATS; that tells you something:
--------------------------------
4, Gore does not count.

It tells you that the Nobel Committee has a left leaning bias.
It tells you that they do take into account the politics of the nominee in their decision making process.
This makes the award meaningless in that it fails to recognize people like Ronald Reagan who did more to end of the cold war than Gorbechev did.
But Gorby is the Socialist, so he gets the award.

How to tell if you are a "True American" according to the GOP: When America loses out on a chance to host the Olympic Games you cheer and celebrate. When America's President wins one of the most prestigious awards in the world, you rant, rave and scream like toddlers who need a nap.

Nobody deserves a 1.4 million dollar award....after being nominated 12 days being president.....Sorry that's obscene.

Not sure about the remark from Hillary.
As for the Nobel Prize, Congrats to our President. I was surprised and laughed when I heard President Obama won. I guess the nomination was an early Christmas present?

Either way, he got it and deserves it. Yes he probably didn't do much (at least planned before things are done), but I think it's the effort he puts in doing his best as President of the United States. Whether people think he deserves it or not, trying your best does pay off.

soon we forget Bush=8 years Obama=10 months. look at the Dow folks, I think he is doing a great job considering. Some republicans are simply racist/unamerican slugs who need to be wiped off the scene.

interesting how no one is commenting on what Mike Huckabee said. Yet thy]eyre still going out of their way to bash the Republicans. If anything they should be thanking Mike for being classy and NOT insulting the president. And then do what Mike said. Give details on WHY the President deserved this 11 days into his presidency
(compared to other presidents) WITHOUT insulting anyone. Just use clean, hard facts.

I know Mikes asking alot, but please, all you who are Democrats, at least TRY.

LOL... Another quick reminder George W Bush and the GOP disgraced America.

It is amazing listening to Obama haters with all of their rants and rages over the fact that President Obama won the Nobel Peace Prize. They whine because they say he hasn't done anything but then some say he is trying to do to much. They say he hasn't accomplished anything but completely dismiss the fact that he beat out a number of candidates who had much more experience than he did and he didn't need the Supreme Court to do it to become the first African American President in a still racist country. They diminish the Olympics and the Nobel Peace Prize, other countries and their leaders and the committees, why, because they hate President Obama. They are more than willing to see our country fail as long as Obama fails. AND they have the nerve to talk about President Obama ???!!!!!!!!!!

The state department statement is a logically fallacious argument: the shoe thrower and the award thrower are not the same entity.

Maybe getting a shoe from such a low life is no worse than getting an award from people who see a weakness in someone or some way and think they can mold the US policies in their preferred structure and then they apply "influence" that should normally be unwelcome.

I am not talking the president here (it is not a personal issue) but "false flattery" by some political circles (Europe liberal politicians who may have unknown motives) should not be mixed with "vicious hatred" by others (a person educated in anti-Americanism from birth by local dictators). Somehow the comparison is not in place. I'd rather be hated by a useless person for America's achievements than be loved and coerced by someone who can influence the nation's course and steer it in the wrong way.

I would like to see the list of the other 204 nominees and see what they contributed to the world.
I bet they actually achieved some of their goals.

Show me one thing 0bama did in his first 11 days in office that's Nobel worthy and I'll withhold all criticism.
--–

He was nominated after his first 11 days. The prize was awarded 6 months later. What part of common logic do you Republican wing-nuts have a problem with? Oh yeah, all of it.

Let's just diminish the meaning of a Nobel Peace prize. To hand it out like candy on halloween to someone who has NOT earned it is wrong. Obama has spoken nice words, but there is nothing except nice words. Bit premature, this should not be handed out until something is accomplished. Credibility is lost when it is for effort and not accomplishments

First hyprocrite Gore wins and now Obama. What a joke the nobel price has become. Nothing more than politics anymore.

President Obama may someday deserve the Nobel Peace Prize, but receiving it now had nothing to do with merit and therefore degrades NPP. Why? Simply because he was nominated 2 weeks after he became President. The committee has chosen to participate in the building up of our President in hopes that it would both obligate him to a course of foreign policy which meets with their approval and arm him with credentials that could assist him eventually achieving success. Does he deserve the award? Of course not...at least not according to the official criteria by which the committee is supposed to consider candidates. The real question is whether the NPP should be used as a foreign policy engineering tool. I'm not comfortable with that, and I think the Norwegians will likely pay an embarrassing price for having used the NPP in that way.

Every time the Republicans open their mouths they show America and the World what poor losers they are, what total idiots they are and how filled with Hate they are.......nothing this President can do would ever be good enough to receive any decent remarks from the Republican Party.....We should all be Proud that an American won this Great Award.......

Huckabee is first to act like a crybaby. The neocons are so jealous we have such a smart and popular president.
Would you repugs prefer limpboy, crybecky, or chaney, bushy, hannity???????????????????????????????????????????
Nut cases-all you negative whiny repugs.

When was the last time a Republican won the Nobel Peace Prize, they are too selfish, too greedy,and too violent.

The gasp of disbelieve from the people sitting in the room when they announced BO was the winner of the NPP... PRICELESS!

The best thing that these negative comments can do is to drive many Republicans to vote for Obama in 2012. That would go along way in telling the rest of us that they are not as stupid as they currently sound.

who was the last Republican to win this award? I'm not really sure but maybe they should have given it to Sarah Palin or Joe the Plumber. The right wing opposition to President Obama is just as plain as the nose on a face. Had he been up for this award and NOT won it, then the right would have attacked him for not being good enough. They are just sore losers and it shows more and more everyday.

Congratulations Mr. President

I believe how the Republicans are acting. Domestically or Internationally, we are most violent country in the world and when we become civilized like our president may be we will not have to worry about Terrorist and our economy. You wonder why corporations are shipping jobs overseas, look at the mentality of workforce. NEGATIVITY ALL DAY LONG!!!

To those who ask what Obama did before the deadline that was Nobel worthy, I would point to ending the illegal use of torture, for one.

Now. For the grownups who really want to discuss this rationally (as opposed to the bigots and sociopaths and other emotionally stunted people who immediately hate everything even remotely Obama-related as a knee-jerk reaction), I can see arguments that the award is premature, but it looks like the Nobel committee did here what they did in awarding the prize to Willy Brandt for his policy of Ostpolitik. They recognized that while the gains are yet few, the field has been well sown and the harvest may be great.

It is worth remembering that the Nobel is an international award, not an exclusively American one.

Oh, and to the moron below who says only Democrats have won the Nobel Peace Prize: the Roosevelt you name was Teddy, not Franklin: a Republican. Also, Republican Vice-President Charles Dawes won in 1925.

Yet another wingnut fails at grasping reality...

When others won the Nobel Peace Prize, there is no such question: "Did he deserve it?" Why when it comes to our President Obama such question is asked? Yes, he deserves it. Congratulations my President, you had made history and continue to do so.
It's time for people in America to be united to help the President resolve or ameliorate the existed problems he inherited.

Le Docteur

It is absolutely terrible that the U.S. no longer has a president that is hated by the rest of the world. Being loved and respected by foreigners is a sure sign that we are on our way to Armegeddon. A pox on peacemonger Obama!

Congratuations Mr. President. keep up the great work. And for all you jealous haters out there, all I can say for you is, good luck with the Prozac. The POTUS has got a lot more accolades and accomplishments coming. He's a distance runner. I suggest you get a hair cut to avoid tearing your hair out or you can invest in Pepto Bismol to help with those stomach aches.

Can't under stand why anyone would find fault in the USA having a postive International image...................oh thats right because you absolutley loath the guy running the show in the US....pitiful.

Congratulations to President Obama and to the American people who elected a man who seeks diplomacy before war. I think that the contrast between him and the former president and vice president is recognized across the world and by leaders of the world. His expectations are that nations and people will work together for common goals and for the common good and when they don't and Americans are in danger, he will deal with that as needed.

Seems to me that true Patriots (as opposed the the Tea Party whiners) are proud of their country and accomplishments of their leaders. Yes, this was probably knee jerk on the part of the Nobel committee, but it just goes to show how much GWB damaged this country in the 8 years of his presidency.

Big congratulations to president Obama!

This prize is given for reason. People respect it.

I would expect nothing less from Hillary Clinton on this. She has nothin to offer and usually proves that whenever she speaks.

Congratulations President Obama. And suck it up Team Hate America.

The likely explanation bhind the award is that it was given more to insult Bush than to honor Obama- and in that case it was very richly deserved.

And Sniffit, the Roosevelt who won the prize was republican Teddy, not FDR. So what that tells me, is that Obama's critics tend to be not only paranoid, but ignorant too.

Stop hating and let him do his job. We are all American and who's to say who belongs in this country. All of our ancestors came to this country in a boat. Stop the hating.
Congrats Mr. President

Some right wing, no job, system milker, will probably turn off Springer and put down the ole crack pipe just long enough to make a stupid comment about all of this! Just wait......you know it's coming! It's not a matter of if but, when!

Let's see...nominations closed February 1st....giving Obama just 11 days in office.

It nice to see that we have disencumbered ourselves from the awkward obligation of accomplishment and have risen to the lofty standards of wishful thinking.

The republicans are at it again!! They have no shame in dismissing such a prestigious award. They are just the party of NO!!

Biggest congratulations to our president, Barack Obama!!

the republicans have no CLASS and as i have said .the GOP and RNC and the Republican Party are ABYSS, they are the MOST HATEFULL and just PLAIN DONE, no RESPECT for our GREAT PRESIDENT. Congrats President Obama, you have LIFTED our MORALE, in this GREAT COUNTRY, America the BEAUTIFULL......

Statements such as this political appointee's shoe throwing quip certainly make the case for our professional diplomatic corps. I'm sure many of them cringed and mourned the lost opportunity for positive spin.

One of the best and most hilarious jabs I've heard in a long while. Bravo, Hillary.

To not be a war monger like the last President, is all it took.
WAY TO GO MR. PRESIDENT!!

Pres. Obama deserves the biggest award the international community can award. He has earned the respect of all the nations around the world. The Republicans will never show appreciation to anything President Obama achieves, whether here or abroad. They are just the party of NO, sheer recklessness and evil doing!!! The Republicans and the Talibans are one and the same, have no shame and will dismiss any prestigious award or honor our president receives.

Linda C in Cal obviously doesn't realize that what the US does affects the whole world. Maybe she should turn off FOX News for once and actually see what is going on in the world.

Do you think THE WHOLE WORLD would have rejoiced the way it did if that Warmonger John McCain and his I can see Russia from my house sidekick had won the Presidency..I doubt it. I would have given this planet less than two years to keep existing with them in power and in control of the Nukes.

People like Linda C hate Obama no matter what. He could get rid of the deficit and she would still complain.

The Republicans..are THE DARK SIDE OF THE FORCE!!!. Hate,Fear,racism,division,etc etc etc.

This award is good for America but your still mad..it just shows what kind of person you and your sheep are.

You would think that he did something bad like started a war or banned all white sheets or something, yet all he did was graciously accepted an award that was bestowed on him. So far everything that has been associated with him good or bad has been criticized.

GOP has been spinning the media since before dawn today to denigrate Nobel Prize for our country's President. They should be proud of this, and not try to politicize it.

In their eyes there is nothing Obama can do right, and they won't be happy until they get a white guy in there to take his place.

I agree with Patricia. Don't mess with God. He said you trash this president for doing what he could do to get the Olympics in America, I've got something for you. I'm going to award him the Nobel Peace Prize for the "climate of change" in the world.

Unfortunately the "climate of change" in America is a different story. We have bozos being paid to attack the president on a daily basis, and ditto heads saying "duh, ditto". But the president is doing a good job in spite of the clowns.

Congratulations Mr. President, we are with you, all the way.

Looks like Republicans and Iranian leaders are in agreement, great bed fellows-

Attributing Mr Obama's win to his "star power", Mr Steele said it was "unfortunate" he "outshined tireless advocates who have made real achievements working towards peace and human rights".

Iran's foreign minister said the decision to give the award was taken too "hastily".

"A good timing for the award would be when US troops have pulled out of Afghanistan and Iraq and the United States is standing up for the rights of the Palestinian people," Manouchehr Mottaki told the Mehr news agency.

I'd actually like to see more shoes getting thrown at republicans than Obama receiving awards... Awards are nice, sure... but shoes thrown at republicans is funnier

"iffit October 9th, 2009 5:42 pm ET

The US has seen 5 presidents get the Nobel….ALL DEMOCRATS; that tells you something:"

Yeah... that the Nobel Peace Prize is a joke given for politically partisan reasons.

And Gore was never President.

The Nobel prize should be given out for great accomplishments. Just what has he done to win the Nobel Peace prize? NOTHING! Dont give me this "he provides hope" garbage, because that is a load of crap. Has be brokered some monumental peace treaty? NO! Has he stopped wars?? NO! The Nobel prize just isnt what it used to be. Next week check your Cracker Jack boxes, I'm sure you can get one of your own.

Oh, and "Mike", you need to seriously get some mental help. You have quite the delusion going on there.

How many Repubs have won this award? zero... count them ...zero. They are so jealous of Obama. Congrats Mr. President. You go Hillary!!! Though I don't agree with the shoe thrower, Bush created a HUGE mess with his "with us or against us remark" and now Obama has to try and repair the damage. Don't worry Repubs, if there were an award for hate mongering bigots, you'd receive it hands down. Quit your whining and start offering solutions. Health reform WILL pass and there's nothing you or the special interests can do about it. Losers.!!!

I suppose we should not begrudge Barack Obama his Nobel Peace Prize, though it represents a radical break in tradition, since he's only had slightly less than nine months to discharge his imperial duties, most concretely through the agency of high explosives in the Hindu Kush whereas as laureates like Henry Kissinger had been diligently slaughtering people across the world for years.

Woodrow Wilson, the liberal imperialist with whom Obama bears some marked affinities, won the Nobel Peace Prize in 1919, having brought America into the carnage of the First World War. The peace laureate president who preceded him was Teddy Roosevelt, who got the prize in 1906 as reward for sponsorship of the Spanish-American war and ardent bloodletting in the Philippines.

TR was given the peace prize not long after he’d displayed his boundless compassion for humanity by sponsoring an exhibition of Filipino “monkey men” in the 1904 St Louis World Fair as “the missing link” in the evolution of Man from ape to Aryan, and thus in sore need of assimilation, forcible if necessary, to the American way. On receipt of the prize, Roosevelt promptly dispatched the Great White Fleet (sixteen U.S. Navy ships of the Atlantic Fleet including four battleships) on a worldwide tour to display Uncle Sam’s imperial credentials, anticipating by scarce more than a century, Obama’s award, as he prepares to impose Pax Americana on the Hindukush and portions of Pakistan.

We should allow Obama the opportunity to prove himself worthy of the other presidents who have won the award by giving him the time necessary to make sure plenty of people suffer and die, just as these other presidents have done. Go get-em Obama!!!!

The Committee said they gave the award to President Obama because of this leadership in the "climate of change". They are right; the country stunk to high heaven while Bush was in office. It took President Obama to go into the Oval Office and fumigate the place to give us back our credibility in the world. Apparently the world recognizes that. Everyone does, except the clowns calling themselves Republicans. In reality they are Rush's ditto deads.

Mark in Atlanta: I agree that Bush was a horrible president. Now explain to me how this statement from the State Department does anything to solve those problems you described?

Obama did the right thing by campaigning for the presidency, winning it, and working to clean up Bush's mess. THAT actually solves the problems Bush created.

This statement from the State Department does nothing to solve the problems Bush created. If you disagree, show me how this statement helps solve those problems.

Funny how the conservatives laud the loss of the Olympics and condemn this award. They don't seem to have anything to offer America other than complaints and negativity, much like the Taliban and bin Laden. I guess terrorists, conservatives and hate-mongers can all crowd together and wish for America to fail.

I believe that the Nobel Prize award to Obama signals the return of hope and the potential of peace. He has done a great deal to restore some respect for the U. S.

That said, he has not yet made good on promises to get out of Iraq, although he voted against the war as a Senator. And, Afghanistan will be his Waterloo, if other strategies are not used to deal with Al Queda and other terrorists. A worldwide coalition of intelligence, and, strategic placement of troops might be the answer.

If Obama continues with current strategy, he will not be better than Bush, other than NOT choosing to invade Iraq in the first place. I'm hopeful, I want this Presidency to succeed.

And, for obsessive Hillary haters, it's time to get a life. her comment was right on and aimed at Republicans. It speaks of respect for Obama vs the disdain shown for Bush.

This is hilarious. You're telling me that lefties actualyl think Obama has done something to DESERVE this?

Face it... Norway wanted to give him an award, they knew that he's too much of a wimp to ever earn one on his own, so they give him one now for showing up.

Bravo Mr. Presenent! It looks like patritism is comming from the outside in.

With all the truly deserving peace makers and humanitarians in the world, it's a shame that the Nobel committee has destroyed the integrity of this award through such a blatantly obvious political move. It's shameless.

GOSH people, Obama did not seek this Award. People Around the world see us in a New and Better Light because of his Presidency. The Hope he brings, the Kind of world he wants for all our children and to inspire people to work together to bring about these changes. The Commitee stated the award was for encouraging President Obama in his Goals. The World is now watching and ready for America to lead again and this is how we act. God Help This Country

The Republicans' take on the award really shows that the brains of anyone associated with the GOP carry them (to be politically polite) in their back pockets....well maybe a little closer to the center rear.

P.S. This us (U.S.) against them attitude is not very Christian, at all.

Like it or not George W. Bush was the president of the United States. He deserves just as much respect as our current President, Barack Obama, like him or not. It's respect for the position, not the person or the person's position on issues. The reference to shoe throwing by the State Department is yet another disrespectful comment toward the prior administration (it didn't need to be brought up). It is very difficult to respect those who have no respect for others.

The US has seen 5 presidents get the Nobel….ALL DEMOCRATS; that tells you something:

Obama
Gore (yeah I'm counting him)
Carter
Wilson
Roosevelt
-----------------------------
@Sniffit
You're wrong, birdbrain. Teddy Roosevelt was a Republican.

Well, this is one way to make republicans go "green". Small people show their true colors when their ideas are trumped by another individual's hopes of peace and honor for all peoples. I'm proud of Pres. Obama's endeavors, and happy to see him recognized for them.

As each passing day shows, from the elation about losing the bid for the 2016 Olympics to trash-talking the President when he gets honored by the Nobel Foundation, the GOP has only one concern:

They want power and money. They care about that more than anything, including our country and the people they supposedly represent.

You'd think that after 8 disastrous years of Cheney/Bush policies, two ill-conceived wars, global financial collapse, incredible incompetence from ignoring a briefing entitled, "Al Qaeda Determined To Attack the US Using Airplanes" to appointing a horse show judge to head FEMA – you'd think that more people would have woken up to the fact that the GOP and their lackeys don't give a flying rat's derriere about anyone but themselves and their cronies!

I get it: The (formerly prestigous) Nobel Committee was short on funds and George Soros had a few hundred million to spare.

What a great line, I love it! And, JD, the guy who threw his shoes was not an Islamic extremist. He, like many Iraqis and people around the world, didn't like Bush's policies and the fact that he ordered a full-scale invasion of his country. For the record, I was horrified at the news that this was done to Bush, even though I didn't vote for him or like him. Like a true American, I have respect for the office.

I have to say congradulations Mr. President, but, sorry to see and hear the Republican response. However, it doesn't surprise me in the lease. Every year the partisan BS just gets worse. Here's hoping both parties get a reality check before the next election. Again, congradulations, Mr. President. I am very proud that you won this award and also proud to be an American.

Sincerely, Gladdyonthehill, Hampstead, MD

after putting up with Bush for 8 years....America deserves an award.

Come on folks, can't some of you be happy for OUR President for anything? This reflects on positively on the entire country. Why some people can't be happy for that I don't understand.

right give a peace award to someone who is continuing the Bush policies we all hated.

At Bush was honest about it.

LOL throwing shoes. I guess going into Iraq was worth it; just to see someone throw something at Bush!

"President Obama won because of who he is NOT and what he HASN'T done, rather than who he is and what he has accomplished."

That's interesting...you know...seeing as how that's not at all what came out of the mouths of the Nobel Prize Committee that decided to award him the Peace Prize. They awarded it specifically for what they feel he has done, his effect on the global community, his visions and plans and actions...i.e., all of which define who he IS as a person. I tend to think they know better why they gave it to him than you or I or the myriad bobbleheads who have chimed in on the subject all day just to keep the "controversy" going for ratings purposes.

I just knew the same people who would rejoice at our country NOT getting the Olympics would be screaming bloody murder about our country getting this award.

Idiots. And anyone who listens to or follows them - idiots, too. I won't go so far as GW did repeatedly and call you un-American because you're obviously "agin' us," since it's clear you're not FOR us.

But you sure SOUND like it.

Unfortunately, GOP today and only today now knows that OBAMA has only spend two weeks in office as collaborated by HUCKABEE just because he won an award. but when it comes to MR PRESIDENT doing his job and fixing things, they portray him as if he has spend eternity in the office. most annoying is that they readily forgot how we got to the issue of the bogus debt!!!-BUSH &CO and all they want is for this guy with all his VISION for AMERICA to sit down and continue to clean the mess created by BUSH. i consider GOP supporters dummies because in the eyes of the world, OBAMA is at the top of his game and posterity will judge him not those GOP FOOLS!!!.

Ask yourself why Democratic Presidents/Vice-Presidents win Nobel Peace Prizes (Jimmy Carter, Al Gore, Obama) and Republican's are thought of as War Criminals. Republicans and their supporters should wake up. Is this the way you want to be remembered. Really.

At least I'm on the CORRECT side of history and I am very proud to say so..

Bull....people like you always go away. From the Civil Rights, to Women's Lib, to Germany, to Gay Rights.....naysayers like you always get stomped on by positive change. Best that YOU get used to it.

Seems as if Republicans see more value in the shoes because their administration, had to take a hike out of office
after they lost in nov 2008.

the rush limbaugh party prefer america fail and have the whole world hate us rather than win peace recognitions.

HIllary's comment is just another example of why so many Americans don't trust her and won't vote for her when she considers another run in 2016 (if not 2012). Not only does she belittle a former President who otherwise would have nothing to do with this article, but it also diminishes her rival's ... I mean boss' ... accomplishment. It's almost like saying "He didn't deserve it, but it's better than ..."

By the way, I don't like GWB or Obama. I don't think Obama deserves the award. Appeasement never works creates lasting peace. And I think peace, by itself, is a worthless goal. Peace didn't found the longest standing democracy on Earth. Peace didn't free the slaves of the southern U.S. Peace didn't stop the Holocaust or Japan's rape of China. Peace didn't bring down the Berlin Wall (although, it is our great fortune that WW3 was averted).

As long as there are dictators and oppressive governments there will either be enslavement or war. Which would you rather have?

First of all, he didnt ask for this award. As all we are he is suprised by it too. Secondly, US has no say in that prize as it is decided by an independent group of people called Nobel committee.

So in essence it is basically a decision to honor our president by a body outside of US. And I completely agree with the State Department. For past 8 years, the best those republican cry babies could produce was a president who was treated with shoes. It is a honor that this president has changed that global attitude towards US. I would rather like to see my president is treated with a prestigious prize like Nobel Peace Prize rather than a shoe from a journalist. That means something and every American who loves its country must be proud about it.

I think this is wonderful. It is amazing at how many people out there must be warmongers. I for one like peace. Obama may not get peace but at least he is willing to try. Congrats Mr. President!!

That's the administration in a nutshell: CLASSLESS.

Congratulations Mr. President.

I think it's time for an investigation on the Nobel Prize Committee for corruption. There is no way an empty suit like Obama can get such a (formerly) prestigious award without some 'quid pro quo' going on.

I am not so sure it is better than having shoes thrown at you, if the shoes are thrown by Islamic extremists. This president just wants to be loved at any cost to his country–even if it means he has to go around the world trash talking America to gain favor with all those third rate countries that regularly come whining to America when they need help.

awaiting moderationbyCNN.. Bush was the candidate who was handed the election by the Republican witch from FL. Al Gore won. If you want to talk about a fraudulent idiot I suggest you look in the mirror for your conversation as one will be looking back at you. What a freak.

Pathetic comment by the State Dept.! It looks like the Dems are working for the citizens of the world, not the US citizens...SAD!

This award honor me and my family as American and I am PROUD of my President!
The world shows us respect and honor us all with that Award!

I just want to say: Thank you Mr. President and congratulation on your WELL deserved Award!

It's Ashame How Un American the GOP is they have not tried to help this COuntry or this President whom by the way GOP He's and AMERICAN!!!! so you snubbed your own people!!! You are the Bigots in America!!! YOu GOP are the Communist for America!!! Because you continue to cause Kaos and Fuel Hatred.........and Have NO SOLUTIONS TO RESOLVING THE MESS YOU CAUSED DURING YOUR 8 YEAR RULE........YOU SHOULD ALL BURN IN HELL!!!

You would think that despite all of our political differences, we could come together and be happy that our president was bestowed this honorable award.

It is an absolute shame that this country has become so bitter and divided. What a great example of unity – we have become – to the rest of the world.........

Last, I think simply the point that the DOS makes is that Obama has done MUCH to improve international relations...not just the way that America interacts with other countries around the world...but the way that we are _perceived_ around the world. And I know the typical arrogant American response is to say, "I don't give a crap what the world thinks of me!" but that's a sadly tragic attitude to have and it's been America's biggest character flaw for ages. As to the cynical thinking that has had no measure of silence ever since this man took office....how wasteful of one's time & energy. How very easy it is to be cynical than it is to risk supporting something outside of what you *think* you know. What does it say about Americans that it is a country who is perhaps the hardest to motivate to do anything besides complain, whine, and engage in negative & distrustful thinking? I believe America can be better than that. I wish Americans believed it too.

Republicans are just jealous and envious of Obama Whitehouse. Think about it, Republicans had a president the world despised and Democrat has a president the world loves and admires. No brainer

Accolades are easy when you do nothing and promise everything.
Shoes come later.

Just imagine the backlash if he had actually won the Olympics. At least this one wouldn't cost us a dime (and actually gains some charity money). The "honor" of the Olympics would be an unnecessary economic drain.

Will we give up our sovereignty for the benefit our “being respected” around the world?

Republicans need to stop throwing stones at our President Obama over the Noble Peace Prize when in fact it was their George W. Bush who did nothing for peace. Republicans, cast your anger where it belongs, in fact you can find it in Austin, Tx.

Cheney Should be in Jail

I am very dissappointed in the Republicans. Presently I would not vote for any Republicans.

Bush Should be in Jail.

Unfortunately he has forgotten that he is the President of the USA not the world. What will they say when he sends more troops into Afghanistan?

Will we give up our sovereignty for the benefit our “being respected” around the world?

Wow! I am amazed that many can't see past politics! Does patriotism mean anything any more? A Million negative comments I have seen, pictures of right wing propaganda, applauding the loss of the Olympics, states wanting to secede from the Union, US Senators holding meetings with foreign countries advising them not to believe anything the US tells them.

The one nation under God thrown aside for politics! Why? The only change different from the past.... a black man is now POTUS.

The right will say what did he do to deserve this... I say he inspired a world to be greater, better.... he opened doors that were once slammed in our face due to a cowboy tyrant who played bully on the playground. ... give him time...and even if you don't like him how can you argue with wanting a better world, a more peaceful world that embraces diplomacy rather than arrogance.

I want to know who nominated him and paid for this award.

For all of you that would say that it is un-American to be opposed to Obama and his Cult of Personality, I say Bull.

If standing up to a political faction and exercising my first amendment rights is un-American, then all of the DNC was un-American for 8 years under Bush.

Get use to it. We are not going away.

What an idiot! Way to take the high road, morons! This from the administration and party that claims the Republicans are treating the current President poorly but have no problem trashing the previous President, who has shown more class than the entire Obama administration combined...

Show me one thing 0bama did in his first 11 days in office that's Nobel worthy and I'll withhold all criticism.

Until such time, this award is nothing but hollow nonsense. If 0bama had a shred of decency, he'd refuse it.

I think that President Obama, humble though he is, deserves the award. He has brought hope to many people around the world, and I believe he will fulfill that hope to a very great extent. He isn't perfect, but he is a great man and a great President. He's also begun to restore America's image abroad. We should be grateful that he is our President. Also, as the Commander in Chief, I think he will eventually do the job that was meant to be done in Afghanistan, get us out of Iraq, and bring out troops home victorious. Finally, I think that Barack Obama will win healthcare reform, bring us out of this terrible recession and be reelected in 2012.

When people throw a physical object at you, you know what they mean, the risk is short term and easy to handle, when they send undeserved honor and flattery– it is highly suspicious of undue influence and meddling with your policy! Be careful, be very careful!
Got it state department, if not handled with care, this can be very dangerous to the USA!

The prize itself..., well, vanities..... at the end Machiavelli said "the prince is judged by his achievements, not his actions" (let alone "his non-actions)!
So, cool down dem's and rep's, the verdict is not out yet!

Well, since throwing shoes at someone is a huge insult and winning an award for trying to bring about international cooperation and peace is an accolade...

What's the point here? The president was given a very prestigious award and Bush had shoes thrown at him. Makes sense.

Why do we think anyone ever liked the U.S./ We have always been the country that everyone wanted to be like.

This is just the icing on a cake that the media has been feeding us for years. We will look back on this moment and say "what the hell were we thinking". Granted, that look-back will occur after we have become so enslaved by our government that we will yearn for the 'good ole days" when we still had freedom. It's time to take our government back – campaign finance reforms and term limits for every elected official. No one should retire from elected office in America – if we truly love our country, then all of us should have a hand in how we define it – not a bunch of out of touch politicians that cower beneath corporations and special interests.

And Mr./Ms. YBM...whoa...careful there. You sound very conspiracy-theory all up in this biz....Yes, I said biz...

Two words for this award: Affirmative Action. Like everything else in his life, Barry Soetoro was handed this due to his skin color, not by action or merit.

It's ironic that a baby-killing abortionist wins the "Peace" prize, but it's named after the man that invented smokeless gunpowder and was also awarded to a murdering terrorist (Arafat). Barry Soetoro is where he belongs.

I second that – "Certainly from our standpoint, this gives us a sense of momentum — when the United States has accolades tossed its way, rather than shoes."

Hahaha...it's funny cuz it's true. And Bull...you're full of Bull.

You know what is "unclassy"? Torturing people. sending out private contractor death squads. Warrentless wiretaps. Ignoring the warnings leading up to 9/11. deciding to invade Iraq while telling the world you are working for peace. Appointing a nut-job to be Ambassador to the UN. Trying to make the US Attorny's office a branch of the Republican party.

No wonder the world was throwing shoes at us for 6 of Bush's 8 years. no wonder the world is celebrating to see America return to her senses and lead again.

It will be worse than shoes very shortly.

Ummm, someone should remind the State Department that some of our best Presidents were hit with bullets.

this is great the Republicans should know that when God is for you who can be against you you go Mr President let them eat their heart out if they have any left God is great he always lift up the humble and bring down they who exalted them selfs thank you Lord my Prayer does't go in vain ah ah Glory be to God.

A Cult of Personality.

All Hail Obama, King BO

What did he do to get this onor?,

It makes as much sense as Gore and Carter. But, Kanye West would have been a better pick.

Same old story– Clean drinking water is not news or something to talk about until it's not available. Obama did asked or campaign for this award, he was just doing his job. If other people want to recognize his approach towards world issues, then why are we gripping.
Americans are only worthy of recognition is it the right American, same old story.

BTW– Can we have some comments from level-headed people and not these "I want to ruffled the feather attention getters"

It's also nice when you are able to properly spell "accolades".

Better if the accolades are truly earned. This country is going the same way as the roman empire and for the same reasons, only it is happening more quickly to us. At least the roman empire had a thousand years or so.

There is something fishy about Obama. I am not a Hilary Clinton fan, but he should never have beaten her. A first term junior senator that has done nothing but vote present and campaign his time as senator, all of a sudden he is president? something strange is going on here.

We like war and killing others. We will fight anyone anywhere. Does this sound familiar to those of you that hate others because they are different. I got news for all of you I hope that Peace breaks out around the world. I am so proud of Our President and proud to be American.
Have a Great Weekend Everyone and be proud to be an American. This is a Great Country and we are back where we belong, respected by the World.

I cannot believe how Republicans are reacting to such great news.
Congratulations, Mr. President!

This has nothing to do with peace and everything to do with politics. If you really think about this, you will realize why Pres. Obama was given this award. Time will tell whether it was merited or not. Time will also tell if it was good for the world and good for the US. It may be good for both, it may only be good for one. I'll wait and see.

Now if they can apply the same logic to baseball, they can award the World Series title to the Chicago Cubs.

Priceless. Now it's even the official line of the U.S. Department of State:
President Obama won because of who he is NOT and what he HASN'T done, rather than who he is and what he has accomplished.

DOS sounds a little defensive.

You get accolades for doing nothing except forsaking you pledge to uphold the Constituiton of the United States and diminishing this country. Shoe get thrown at you when you free millions of people. The insanity of socialism. ACORN/SEIU must have tampered with the vote like they did in the election that gave us this fraudulent idiot.

Wow. Such partisan, unclassy comments straight from the State Department, made about a guy who has been respectful enough of the new administration not to say anything, saying that "Obama deserves my silence." I can't believe how low Washington has sunk.

I just want to say..........."Some retarded complaint, no constructive input, a moronic false statement and a totally made up fact and completely delusional belief that republicans are good and patriotic who just happen to hate americans"

Thanks, that's all I have!

It were a consolation prize for the Olympics !!

this award is as merited as letterman getting husband of the year award, well deserved.

What an incredibly disrespectful remark, especially for Sec of State. I would have thought Hillary would know better.

The Obama Presidency in a nut shell: Tokenism