Think Progress

Rove ironically attacks Obama for not wearing flag pins.»

In a recent interview with GQ, former Bush adviser Karl Rove criticized Sen. Barack Obama (D-IL) for “not wearing a flag lapel pin,” saying that “to a lot of ordinary people, putting that flag lapel pin on is true patriotism.” As Rove made this comment, however, interviewer Lisa Depaulo noticed that he wasn’t wearing a pin:

DEPAULO: You’re not wearing a flag pin, Karl.

ROVE: Sometimes I do, sometimes I don’t. But I respect those who consciously get up in the morning and put a flag lapel pin on.

Rove’s ironic moment of criticism echoes a similar gaffe by Rep. Jack Kingston (R-GA). In February, MSNBC’s Dan Abrams caught Kingston attacking Obama over the pins while not wearing one himself.

UpdateIn another bit of irony, Ben Smith points out that Rove's favored candidate, Sen. John McCain (R-AZ), didn't wear a flag pin during his speech today.



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183 Responses to “Rove ironically attacks Obama for not wearing flag pins.”

  1. RUCerious Says:

    fu(king pins do not a patriot make.


  2. Buckie Boy Says:

    Republican = Hypocrite

    Says it all.


  3. RUCerious Says:

    If there were any justice, Rove would get one pin for every dead American soldier pinned to his ass.


  4. PatrioticLiberalChristian Says:

    To a lot of people, flying the Confederate flag is “patriotic”.

    To a lot of people, blowing up people of other nations, creeds, and color is “patriotic”.

    To a lot of people, circumventing American laws to advance your political ideology is “patriotic”.

    Rove doesn’t need a flag pinned to his lapel. He needs a whole frickin’ flag pole shoved up his arse and then planted in the yard of a federal prison.


  5. AMcG773 Says:

    This reminds me of the episode of Seinfeld where Kramer was in the AIDS walk but wouldn’t wear a red ribbon.


  6. SP Biloxi Says:

    Ha Ha! This tells you how desperate the GOP party is for the Presidential race if Tubby McTreason Rove has to criticize Obama for not wearing a lapel flag pin and Rove is not wearing his! This must be a continuation of April Fools week!


  7. Menehune Says:

    Didn’t you hear–Only Muslim black-nationalist Christians HAVE to wear flag pins. It’s pin-optional for Americans.

    That’s some major effort that you respect, Karl. I think most of these jokers just have their butler move the pin from today’s suit to tomorrow’s when they are laying out their master’s clothes for the next day.


  8. Razster Says:

    Sad thing is, you’re not allowed by law to wear the flag, of something to that nature if I recall my 8th grade training. But hey, we don’t follow laws around here anymore anyway.


  9. Bilbo Hussein Baggins Says:

    I don’t think I have ever seen McBush wearing a flag pin.

    Do these guys know how stupid and hypocritical they sound? All they are doing is catapulting the propaganda.

    I am glad, though, that people are starting to call them on their BS.


  10. SP Biloxi Says:

    Memo to Tubby: Stick to the issues in the Presidential race and not who is or isn’t wearing a lapel flag pin!


  11. PatrioticLiberalChristian Says:

    one nation
    indivisible
    liberty
    justice
    for all

    Wear the flag, tear the republic for which it stands. That’s not patriotism, its nationalism serving narcissism and greed.


  12. KayInMaine Says:

    Bah hahahahahaha! Oh that Stupid Rove Man. Wow. *shaking head*


  13. Cats r Flyfishn Says:

    A flag pin won’t get you into heaven anymore. It’s already overcrowded because of the Bush/Cheney illegal war.


  14. NoMoreBush Says:

    Is this for real? Let me get this straight — while one of the world’s largest investment banks needs a bailout, folks are losing their homes or the equity in their homes, the credit markets contract daily, fears of stagflation are passed about, the Constitution has been conveniently set aside for this failed imperial presidency (that Rove had a big hand in perpetuating), not to mention young American soldiers are getting maimed and killed in two, count them, two simultaneous wars,

    and all these right-wing hayseed m-fer’s can talk about are freaking flag pins????? Is there more of a non-issue out there, except perhaps who the next American Idol will be or at what point will Britney have a nervous breakdown. This fat-headed idiot needs to be shot before a firing squad, flag pin and all. We really are Rome in decline — I half expect orgies at the WH where King George can do his best Caligula imitation. For the love of God, all of these m-fers need to be voted off the planet in ‘08.


  15. KayInMaine Says:

    I bet Karl does click his jackboots together every morning.


  16. misshusseinmolly Says:

    If I didn’t know better, I’d swear this interview was really a Saturday Night Live skit. But April Fools Day was yesterday, not today.

    Rove usually just enrages me, because I think of how his dirty tricks gave us Bushco, and I think of the carnage he left in his wake accomplishing that goal.

    But now I’m starting to feel more pity than outrage. Does he REALLY define patriotism as wearing a little trinket made in China? This shows more patriotism than fighting to make this country a better place? And does he really not see the irony in criticizing someone not wearing the flag pin as “unpatriotic” while he doesn’t wear one himself?

    Aren’t Americans insulted when Rove implies they are this stupid?

    Or maybe when Rove said, “to a lot of ordinary people, putting that flag lapel pin on is true patriotism,” he was acknowledging that Obama isn’t an “ordinary” person — he’s quite an extraordinary one. One who knows he doesn’t have to have patriotism pinned to his lapel to have it in his heart.


  17. Dr. Hussein Matt Says:

    Reich-wingers clearly have no concept of patriotism if they “think” wearing a flag pin equates patriotism.


  18. FunMe Says:

    Flags, fags, pins … these clowns are so pathetic. They have NOTHING of substance to add to our nations.

    The CONs (republicons, neocons, conservatives) are the true traitors to our democracy.

    I can’t wait for these creatures to be out of sight, out of mind.


  19. KayInMaine Says:

    Why do I have this sudden urge to smack a flag pin into Rove’s forehead?


  20. bobcat_grad Says:

    True patriotism is respecting the rule of law and the will of the people. Not some token pin.


  21. Shayne Says:

    GQ did an article on Karl Rove? Did it include his picture? If I was a subscriber I’d demand a refund.


  22. RUCerious Says:

    Issues? Issues? For God sake would someone besides the Democratic Candidates talk about the fu(king ISSUES!!!


  23. Shayne Says:

    I don’t recall ever seeing a flag pin on Bush or Cheney or McCain for that matter. Oh, but they’re 100% white men so they don’t need to wear a pin to be judged patriotic, right?


  24. Zee Says:

    Um, when did they turn flag pins into the equivalent of Nazi armbands?

    Actually, the worst desecration of the flag I’ve seen was Chimpy’s SIGNING one for some braindead rethuglican. Disgusting.

    But FunMe…sadly, they are going nowhere. Desecration = sacred in this Orwellian tragicomedy, I’m afraid.


  25. hellinabucket Says:

    flag pins? seriously Karl, is this what you focus on? Or is it the obscurment you do so well. Either way, flag pins are not the critical issue of the day.

    Now let’s talk about those missing emails………


  26. RUCerious Says:

    If Jefferson could come back from the grave, he’d strangle Rove, and hurl his carcass into Chesapeake Bay.


  27. Freedom Rebel Says:

    This is why is doesn’t wear the flag pin:

    You know, the truth is that right after 9/11, I had a pin,” Obama said. “Shortly after 9/11, particularly because as we’re talking about the Iraq War, that became a substitute for I think true patriotism, which is speaking out on issues that are of importance to our national security, I decided I won’t wear that pin on my chest.

    “Instead,” he said, “I’m going to try to tell the American people what I believe will make this country great, and hopefully that will be a testimony to my patriotism.”

    I think he did a wonderful job telling everyone why he doesn’t He’s right it doesn’t make you anymore patroitic.


  28. ennealogic Says:

    What Rove meant to say is you gotta have a flag pin if you wanna be in the inner circle of corrupt politicians who wrap themselves in the flag and carry a cross. Fascist politicians. I’m awful glad Obama doesn’t wear on of those pins.


  29. jpopphan Says:

    “to a lot of ordinary people, putting that flag lapel pin on is true patriotism.”

    THAT should tell you all you need to know about the “patriotism” of folks like Rove and Kingston. It’s all about show and perception.

    I love my country, but I have not nor will not wear a lapel pin with the flag on it in hopes that someone notices me and thinks that I am patriotic. My patriotism is shown in other ways - ways that are in fact more important than mere perceptions.

    I simply cannot wait until Karl Rove is just an unpleasant memory and not shoved in my face every time I turn on the TV.


  30. Briseadh na Faire Says:

    I sugggest Obama wear the pin … upside down.

    (universal signal of danger/distress)


  31. PatrioticLiberalChristian Says:

    A certain troll should learn the difference between playing with a REAL train on a REAL track and playing with Thomas the Train on a TOY track. Less brain damage may result.


  32. RUCerious Says:

    PLC, heh…


  33. nanlichi Says:

    The flag we need is for the progressisgood POS.

    Flag away.


  34. PatrioticLiberalChristian Says:

    RUC

    I enjoy whack-a-troll leap frog.


  35. KingCranky Says:

    So Karl “The Math” Rove attacks Obama for not wearing the same type lapel pin that Rove’s not wearing either.

    That certainly makes sense, about as much sense as his pathetic spin when his invisible patriotism was pointed out for all to see in that interview.

    DEPAULO: You’re not wearing a flag pin, Karl.

    ROVE: Sometimes I do, sometimes I don’t. But I respect those who consciously get up in the morning and put a flag lapel pin on.

    As opposed to respecting all those who get up unconsciously in the morning to put their pins on, in other words, putting a China-made US Flag lapel pin on while sleepwalking is where Karl draws the line at “real” vs. “phony” patriotism.

    Good ol’ Karl, yet again forgets to hit “off” on the “stupid” remote.

    I wonder just what these blithering neocons, chickenhawks and warmongers would consider “phony” patriotism, especially since their patriotic standards are so rigorous and demanding-wearing US flag lapel pins-otherwise.


  36. KayInMaine Says:

    Is it possible the right wingers of this nation that have a flag pin on their lapel are wearing the pin to remind them to take the trash out and has nothing to do with patriotism?


  37. McWars Says:

    Obama Would Consider Gore for Major Post

    http://news.yahoo.com/ s/ ap/ 20080402/ ap_on_el_pr/ obama_gore

    Al, I’m begging you to go ahead and give Obama that endorsement. It’s not as if Hillary would treat you any better. Remember how she pushed you aside during her husband’s years?


  38. McWars Says:

    KayInMaine Says:
    April 2nd, 2008 at 4:34 pm

    Kay, it’s great to see you post here. I love your blog!


  39. Dr. Hussein Matt Says:

    I propose that ALL reich-wingers must wear flag pins as a way to identify them so we can steer clear of the clowns.


  40. Alejandro Says:

    Karl Rove, SUPERGENIUS


  41. RUCerious Says:

    Dr. Hussein Matt, they’d have to issue 2 color embroidered towels to them to wipe the spittle that would be coming their way…


  42. tom Says:

    I am glad that KKKRover is making a big deal about the flag pin. He is so superficial and transparent that even some of the 28 percenters have got to be questioning his outlandish BS.

    This is just the latest in Rover’s “oh, look at the shiny thing” strategy of distraction. Got a political problem? Trailing in the polls? Unpopular? Find some inconsequential “shiny thing” and focus everyone’s attention on it. Anyone care for another helping of “Defense of Marriage Act”? Please pass the Schiavo!


  43. Above the Clouds Says:

    Karl Rove to America: “The Republican Party has NOTHING for America.”


  44. lefty Says:

    There is no such thing as irony anymore. Irony is dead.


  45. RUCerious Says:

    don’t ya think? ~~~
    It’s pretty obvious that you don’t.


  46. Zimzone Says:

    I’ll bet KKKarl had that Porky Pig smile as he said that.

    Patriotism can be sliced, diced & arranged on several platters.
    Many of us feel it starts with serving your Country.

    KKKarl didn’t serve.

    Big Dick didn’t serve.

    W was hiding with Ho’s in Mexico.

    You get the picture. But, the real fiasco is KKKarl portraying a sign of patriotism as a flag pin WHILE NOT WEARING ONE!


  47. lefty Says:

    Flag pin complaints are for giant fascist asslickers.


  48. MCMetal Says:

    In a recent interview with GQ, former Bush adviser Karl Rove criticized Sen. Barack Obama (D-IL) for “not wearing a flag lapel pin,” saying that “to a lot of ordinary people, putting that flag lapel pin on is true patriotism.”

    Turd Blossom

    Flag pin = patriotism to you and your ilk

    The Constitution = real patriotism to those who believe in it and follow it and want to protect it.

    You are atypical of every “ordinary” Republican , sir ; style over true substance.


  49. Fred Says:

    The 14 Defining Characteristics Of Fascism

    The third:

    3. Identification of Enemies/Scapegoats as a Unifying Cause - The people are rallied into a unifying patriotic frenzy over the need to eliminate a perceived common threat or foe: racial , ethnic or religious minorities; liberals; communists; socialists, terrorists, etc.


  50. tom Says:

    jdc –> GSY (go snark yourself)


  51. KayInMaine Says:

    I think Karl Rove should now wear a humongous US flap draped over both sides of his body wherever he goes. This will prove to everyone that he really does love America, don’t you think?


  52. KayInMaine Says:

    lefty Says:
    April 2nd, 2008 at 4:41 pm

    Flag pin complaints are for giant fascist asslickers.

    LOL! Exactly!


  53. MCMetal Says:

    jdc Says:
    April 2nd, 2008 at 4:38 pm
    It makes perfect sense a guy indoctrinated in a separatist church that spouts anti-American rhetoric would choose not to wear the symbol of the United Sates on his person. Even his wife has stated her lack of pride with America.

    I do believe there is a stark difference between a person that happens not to be wearing a flag pin versus the person that refuses to ever wear one….don’t ya think?

    No one needs “think” to surpass you and your GOP brethren , JustaDopeyClown.

    Actions speak much more loudly than an insignificant trinket that is made in China…………..


  54. TXProgressive Says:

    You can have your phoney patriotism. Wearing a 99 cent american flag pin made in china does not make you a true patriot. Only in the twisted world of rove and the gop.


  55. galmud Says:

    pa·tri·ot
    -noun

    1. a person who loves, supports, and defends his or her country and its interests with devotion.

    2. a person who regards himself or herself as a defender, esp. of individual rights, against presumed interference by the federal government.

    Karl Rove is neither. He loves only himself, defends only his own interests and interfers with individual rights through the federal government.


  56. Guido the Loving OBGYN Says:

    Reminds me of the flag inspector in The Sound of Music every time I hear this flag pin nonsense.


  57. Peter C Says:

    “Patriotism is the last refuge of a scoundrel” - Samual Johnson.

    Defining patriotism down to mrer “pin-wearing” - the last refuge of a neocon.

    Karl Rove is completely emblematic of the ills of our current political situation. His is the true face of the modern Republican party.


  58. MCMetal Says:

    galmud Says:
    April 2nd, 2008 at 4:44 pm

    Karl Rove is neither. He loves only himself, defends only his own interests and interferes with individual rights through the federal government.

    That’s cold ; Karl does have feelings for Jeff Gannon……….


  59. KayInMaine Says:

    Is it possible that wearing a flag pin on your lapel means one is a right wing hippy? Could be. LOL


  60. GSD Says:

    Remember all of those patriotic German’s with their armabands and flags?

    Go eff yourself Turdblossom.

    -GSD


  61. ralph the wonder llama Says:

    I am LOVING this flag pin “controversy”. The naked hypocrisy of the IOKIYAR principle is plainly visible for all who care to see it. So many of the arguments that matter to the Left are complex and difficult to get across in a sound bite. This is better than a sound bite, because it’s a quick, clear visual.

    “to a lot of ordinary people, putting that flag lapel pin on is true patriotism.” Yeah, to ordinary MORONS. No wonder the Right considers “colleges and universities” the second most dangerous institution in America (after Media Matters, natch.)

    An educated populace is a threat to these people.


  62. PatrioticLiberalChristian Says:

    So, Karl, how do you decide when NOT to wear your flag pin? Perhaps on days, like this one, when you are out to do your un-American political dirty tricks?


  63. Bushie Says:

    Boy am I out of touch! I thought “true patriots” were those eating Freedom Fries.


  64. PatrioticLiberalChristian Says:

    Quick, jdc and jackball (OK, I know you’re the same person), you’re going to miss your Thomas the Train ride if you don’t stop posting. Your conductor already left. Bye, now.


  65. Peter C Says:

    Please flag jdc for #42 and his, “a guy indoctrinated in a separatist church”. This is pure smear. The United Church of Christ is completely mainstream Protestant denomination with a particularly strong democratic tradition which gives individual congregations control over their own churches with little influence from a heirarchical structure. Such a set-up may be repugnant to the “daddy-knows-best” tendencies of Republicans and fundamentalists, but it is in no way radical or outside the traditional narrative in relation to the wholly-American idea of religious freedom. To suggest otherwise out of ignorance is beyond belief; this is a smear tactic of the most blatant and repugnant sort.


  66. RUCerious Says:

    Poor trolls, reduced to making up vacant lots full of straw morons.


  67. KayInMaine Says:

    # jackball Says:
    April 2nd, 2008 at 4:56 pm

    Obama not wearing his pin on purpose is just a flagrant attempt to please the radical anti-americans in his party. You know, people like you here on TP. This will not help in the general election where real americans will be wondering why he doesn’t wear a pin and why he hangs with an vile anti-american pastor.

    What is a real American? What do they do on a daily basis and what do they look like? Surely you must know being a jackboot licker that you are.


  68. KayInMaine Says:

    Obama is live on Matthew’s show on MSNBC for all who are interested.


  69. nanlichi Says:

    jackoff says that “real americans” will be wondering why he doesn’t wear a pin.

    Hey jackoff, why don’t you wrap yourself in a flag and put your hand on a Bible and go Fck yourself. Real Americans don’t lick the sweaty smag from Rove’s balls the way the trolls do.

    A real American.


  70. Guido the Loving OBGYN Says:

    *yawn*


  71. independentoregon Says:

    Is that all Rove’s got? Pathetic.


  72. tom Says:

    Obama not wearing his pin on purpose is just a flagrant attempt to please the radical anti-americans in his party.

    Right on, babycakes! Gestures speak louder than deeds! Who needs to be patriotic when they can look patriotic?


  73. PatrioticLiberalChristian Says:

    Those “straw morons” best be wearing an American flag pin. Can’t have no un-American, fascist, commie, socialist, islamist straw morons in our lots.


  74. texaslady Says:

    The real patriot is the one who actually does something to bring our military home. Or helping the Vets get a 2008 GI bill for tuition which McCain won’t do. A pin or ribbon is an easy out. Lets see who actually walks the walk.


  75. OnTheLeft Says:

    Leave it to Turd Blossom to whine about someone else’s lack of patriotism. Newsflash, Karl! Treason is far less patriotic than failing to wear some pin.


  76. specialist f Says:

    jackball,jdc, Ahh,I see these mush heads are all full of their limpball talking points.When you only get your info from FNC and Jeff Christie your brain actually shrinks.


  77. texaslady Says:

    Well Jackball I have one son serving in Iraq and another who died in Afganistan. What have you done for America?


  78. Guido the Loving OBGYN Says:

    I still think that once Hillary drops out Obama needs to hold a presser and put his flag pin on. And he should invite all Americans to get one and put it on. And to put a flag in their yard or on their porch so we can put an end to this shallow blackmail by these liars and lawbreaker Republicans.


  79. RUCerious Says:

    #76, PLC ~ Festooned with flag pins, boy scout uniforms and tiny dildos.


  80. mocha Says:

    I wonder if this will qualify Rove to be O’Reilly’s “Pinhead” of the day?

    These are the kind of people who when caught in a lie would in all seriousness claim, “It’s opposite day,” or “I had my fingers crossed”


  81. StratRat Says:

    jackball Says:
    April 2nd, 2008 at 4:56 pm
    Obama not wearing his pin on purpose is just a flagrant attempt to please the radical anti-americans in his party. You know, people like you here on TP.

    Is this cretin a new troll? Or just a re-designed Mr. P or Billy Hill. No matter, all of them make no sense considering we live in a free country and under democratic system of government. These people absolutely HATE a free country, because that forces them to think and have independent thoughts - these folks do not do indepenent very well. They also hate the democratic form of our government - they want a king. Kings make their insignificant lives easier and less cluttered - again, no thinking, no indepenance.

    Nice try at being patriotic though jacksh!t. Maybe No korea would be more to your liking. Go there - NOW!


  82. woodguy Says:

    This is why we’ve suffered for 7 long years with a witless dunderhead. And the media plays along everytime. The Republic Party: where stupid symbolism reigns, and serious issues are ignored.


  83. Louis Says:

    Flag pins? When is this infantile crap going to stop?


  84. Castelcomerkid Says:

    Considering that Rove has been the linchpin of the Bush Crime family, and considering how this bunch of thugs has defamed the American Flag time and again, and sent 4000+ of our brightest and best to die under that flag, he should be forbidden to ever wear an American flag pin again. I have no question whatever of Barack Obama’s patriotism. Rove on the other hand, should be stripped of his.


  85. nanlichi Says:

    Jackoff is living proof that trolls can live on a diet of smag and dingleberries. The brain doesn’t function for shit, but they can still close the clasp on their flag pin so life is good.

    Americans don’t torture, Americans don’t invade another country based on the lies of a pissant, and Americans don’t worship Bush.

    But trolls do.


  86. StratRat Says:

    Americans don’t torture, Americans don’t invade another country based on the lies of a pissant, and Americans don’t worship Bush.

    But trolls do.

    Perfectly stated! Our sh!thead of a troll calls herself Jacksh!t. It even stinks like a troll. Jacksh!t couldn’t find his way out of a phone booth.


  87. Uncle Ho Says:

    another sterling example of rethuglic rules:

    Do as I say, not as I do.


  88. Shayne Says:

    jackball Says:
    April 2nd, 2008 at 5:08 pm

    LOL, TP lefties trying to lecture anyone on the definition of a real American is rich.
    Please, most of you people have wholly un-american opinions, that much is perfectly clear by reading the ridiculous comments regularly posted on this site.

    You’re spitting all over yourself jackball.


  89. NoMoreBush Says:

    Oh jackball is such an American — when did you serve? Obama’s pastor — the one you accuse of being unAmerican — served in the Marines. So when did you serve? Or, more likely, you were too busy playing with your All American Barbie.


  90. misshusseinmolly Says:

    jackball Says:
    April 2nd, 2008 at 5:08 pm
    LOL, TP lefties trying to lecture anyone on the definition of a real American is rich.
    Please, most of you people have wholly un-american opinions, that much is perfectly clear by reading the ridiculous comments regularly posted on this site.
    _____________________________________________

    Apparently you NEED a lecture on what constitutes “American”, “un-American”, and “patriotism”. Hint — these terms have absolutely nothing to do with whether or not you agree with the opinion posted.

    But if you are going to attack posters here for being “un-American”, could you at least provide some examples (along with WHY they are unamerican), instead of just firing off a load of buckshot randomly?


  91. Dr. Hussein Matt Says:

    Desperation knows no bounds: jackoff is reverting to 2003 tactics of calling the left “Anti-American”.


  92. Uncle Ho Says:

    I have a patriotic urge to put a shotgun in Rove’s mouth and pull the trigger. Resisting temptation is VERY hard.


  93. PatrioticLiberalChristian Says:

    “wholly un-American opinions”?? I must have missed the law against opinions. Oh, wait, that’s because there AREN’T any in the American system.


  94. texaslady Says:

    Patriotism is loving your country and working to right the wrongs in your country. UnAmerican is selling out your country to the highest bidder and killing over 4000 military men and women with no remorse.


  95. misshusseinmolly Says:

    Apparently Rove thinks that wearing a flag pin makes someone a true patriot much in the way that a yellow magnetic ribbon decal on one’s SUV makes someone a true supporter of the troops.


  96. Willy Says:

    Apparently Benedict Arnold would have been a patriot if he’d only worn a flag lapel pin.

    Politicians might as well wear hot dog, apple pie and motherhood lapel pins while they’re at it.

    How f**king stupid!


  97. Dr. Hussein Matt Says:

    jackball Says:
    April 2nd, 2008 at 5:27 pm
    Obviously the TP community is very sensitive about its anti-american reputation

    We are laughing at you. It’s been well accepted and documented that the GOPigs are indeed the patent holders on anti-Americanism. Enjoy it.


  98. Loonie Says:

    So by his own reckoning, sometimes Karl is patriotic, sometimes he isn’t.


  99. Dr. Hussein Matt Says:

    jackoff Says:
    April 2nd, 2008 at 5:29 pm
    I regretfully didn’t serve, although I really wish I had

    You didn’t serve because you, like all reich-wingers, are anti-American. Thanks for proving that fact.


  100. dbadass Says:

    Do you have any idea how little these things are after you hold them up into that cute little triangle at night? It would be really easy for Karl to overlook it on the dresser in the morning. Just saying…


  101. JohnR Says:

    Now you know what the future holds for Obama. They are going to paint him as unpatriotic. Last time I checked, it was bullshit patriotism that gets us in these wars.


  102. StratRat Says:

    jackball Says:
    April 2nd, 2008 at 5:27 pm
    Obviously the TP community is very sensitive about its anti-american reputation. That speaks volumes.

    You mean, the reputation that YOU just created out of thin air? Your ego must be as big as all outdoors if you believe for a nanosecond we care at all what drivel leaks out of your piehole. Time for you to go back to the clubhouse. mom’s almost done baking your favorite cookies. It will be nappy time very soon and you know how whiny you get if you don’t get your nappy. Run along now, son, or daughter, or whatever.


  103. texaslady Says:

    Jackball you did offend me by labeling everyone here as unAmerican simply on your own opinion. This blog has the most information with facts to back up statements, so do some research before you shoot off your mouth. Please.


  104. StratRat Says:

    jackball Says:
    April 2nd, 2008 at 5:29 pm
    texaslady,
    Assuming that’s true, then there’s no doubt that your sons exemplify patriotism.

    Exactly the opposite of what you exemplify. See, that wasn’t so hard was it? Just admit to being a chickenhawk and a crybaby, and we can all agree on something. DO NOT attempt to assume or presume to know what level of patriotic ferver lives on here at TP. We are trying to save the country, you are trying to crown a king.


  105. texaslady Says:

    Someone please inform me why it is that those who never serve in anyway, shape or form their country, could even be Peace Corp., are the most hawkish. If they love war so much why aren’t they in uniform ? Cheney, Rove, Bush, Wolfawitz, Pearl,Hannity, O’Reilly, Limbaugh never, ever did anything patriotic.


  106. Buckie Boy Says:

    Justadumbclown and Jacksh!t sure are smart fellers, aren’t they?

    Just shows what idiots the “don’t know sh!t” clowns are, lemming, brownshirting, jackbooting, neanderturds that don’t have two brain cells to rub together.

    Their god is Rush, get on your knees and give Rush what he desires…slurp, slurp, slurp…just like good little Gannons.


  107. fletc3her Says:

    Not wearing a pin?! How am I to know whether my Presidential candidate is patriotic or not?! I had previously supposed that running for the highest office in the land showed a certain amount of love of country, but without the pin to seal the deal I just can’t be sure.

    Of course, real patriots wear the pin even when naked. Next time McCain goes through airport security maybe the TSA officers will have to make him remove the pin from wherever he has affixed it using pliers.


  108. PatrioticLiberalChristian Says:

    jackball Says:
    April 2nd, 2008 at 5:27 pm
    Obviously the TP community is very sensitive about its anti-american reputation. That speaks volumes

    Yes, it does. Not just the way you think it does, however. I am genuinely sick of people like you who question my patriotism without justification or rationale. Progressive and Liberal Americans have also fought and died for this country and the inherent right of dissent and freedom of thought that you so readily dismiss. Our American ancestors were leaders in promoting human rights, condemning torture, avoiding first-strike war, and promoting peaceful diplomacy. Progressive and Liberal Americans were among those leaders. That’s patriotism - not your watered-down version of nationalism and jingoism. You have offended.


  109. KayInMaine Says:

    jackball Says:
    April 2nd, 2008 at 5:27 pm

    Obviously the TP community is very sensitive about its anti-american reputation. That speaks volumes.

    Liking & loving George Bush’s America over the last eight years has been hard. Tell us why you’ve loved those years and tell us why those years made you feel patriotic.


  110. StratRat Says:

    Next time McCain goes through airport security maybe the TSA officers will have to make him remove the pin from wherever he has affixed it using pliers.

    Well, McSame got shot down. Got captured. He left his wife on her death bed to marry a plastic socialite. He pimps out his daughter and kisses the ass of every beltway ‘reporter’ as a way to buy their worship. Since McSame is where he is without doing any of it himself, my bet is he will have his wife wear the pin and she can deal with the pliers. She’s probably into S&M anyway. Is that grin on her face permanent?


  111. NOLIESPLEASE Says:

    DO YOU REALLY THINK THIS IS IMPORTANT MR.ROVE? Really, the country is falling apart, two wars , economic meltdown , and your worried about a flag pin? Has anyone told you we are in this mess because of your stupid advise? WHEN A REPORTER HAS THE BALLS TO ASK THOSE QUESTIONS, THEN I WILL REGAIN MY RESPECT FOR THE MEDIA. UNTIL THEN, THE REPORTERS ARE JUST AS STUPID AS CARL ROVE FOR NOT CALLING HIM OUT ON STUPID SUBJECTS.


  112. texaslady Says:

    #117 - Excellent point ! The media this last 8 years has been so blase about asking any hard questions. They allow lie after lie without calling it out. I understand media is business and the administration holds the licensing in their hands but what happened to integrity ?


  113. KayInMaine Says:

    Buckie Boy says: “…neanderturds that don’t have two brain cells to rub together”

    Bah hahahahahaha! So true.


  114. specialist f Says:

    Justadumbclown and Jacksh!t sure are FART SMELLERS, aren’t they?Buckie Boy Says
    There that’s better! :)


  115. 1984 Says:

    “to a lot of ordinary people, putting that flag lapel pin on is true patriotism.”
    What a bunch of nonsense, as if putting on a flag pin equals patriotism. Besides, it’s for losers:
    http://www.salon.com/ opinion/ feature/ 2008/ 03/ 04/ flag_pins


  116. Left Coast Mike Says:

    RUCerious Says:
    April 2nd, 2008 at 4:04 pm
    If there were any justice, Rove would get one pin for every dead American soldier pinned to his ass.

    4000+ pins wouldn’t even begin to cover that ass…


  117. KayInMaine Says:

    Did our Forefathers wear a flag pin?


  118. tarazan Says:

    A $5.00 flag pin will not make someone patriotic…What a cheap way to achieve patriostism..!!

    Does an engagement or wedding ring make a couple loyal to each others ,stop the two from playing around and be faithful to each others?..no it does not. There has to be more than just a ring.

    So wearing a pin does not mean one is patriotic,and not wearing it does not make one non patriotic.
    This silly stuff will start from now on until November…
    Rove knows also that there are millions of ears in this country that will listen to this silly stuff and make their decisions based on such hollow assumption.


  119. pete Says:

    I didn’t want to wade through the troll dung and apologize if this point has been made. My late father was a vet and patriot. Among the things he taught me is respect for the flag. That did not include wearing the flag as clothing or accessory. In fact, I’m damn certain he would have been glad to dress down any elected official who disrespected the flag in such a manner. And he would have been mortified at the evil our flag has come to represent under “George’s idiot kid”.

    That quote is straight from Dad. Dubbya is one of two Reps Dad voted against in a long, full, lifetime.


  120. KayInMaine Says:

    Jackball, you don’t think right wingers are self-righteous and act holier-than-thou with their bibles stuck to their faces?


  121. Blimey Says:

    Hmmm….outing a CIA agent = Treason
    Not wearing a flag pin = un-patriotic

    I hope people remember!


  122. texaslady Says:

    How is putting on a lapel pin patriotic ? What a person does is the important issue. And Rove is no way a patriotic person from the way he conducts his life. A hundred pins mean nothing when you lie,cheat and steal.


  123. dbadass Says:

    jackball Says:
    April 2nd, 2008 at 6:03 pm
    PatrioticLiberalChristian,
    I couldn’t care less if I offended you. LOL Get used it. The lies of liberalism offend me, highly. Your political views are asinine and reflective of the self-righteous holier-than-thou attitude of most liberals I’ve met.

    —-
    Are you sure that it was self-righteous holier than thou attitudes or is it possible that the liberals you have met were just better people than you? Perception is weird that way. I wasn’t at any of those meetings so I wouldn’t know but there seems to be some indication that you may not be an impartial judge of character


  124. StratRat Says:

    jackball Says:
    April 2nd, 2008 at 6:03 pm
    PatrioticLiberalChristian,
    I couldn’t care less if I offended you. LOL Get used it. The lies of liberalism offend me, highly. Your political views are asinine and reflective of the self-righteous holier-than-thou attitude of most liberals I’ve met.

    When you limit the places to meet people to only bus stop or airport bathrooms stalls, you will not enjoy the multitude of opinions and views available to you. Try reading, or maybe doing some of your own research to discover what you think is the truth.

    Holier than thou? Just because we value the Constitution and Bill of Rights? Just because we care more about our country than you? Just because we might have spent more time and energy learning about the players in the Bush criminal enterprise? Just because we total hundreds of million Americans? Your little ship of Bush is sinking - fast. Seems you have tied your fortuines to a loser, mate.


  125. Doc Rock Says:

    Right wing idiots!


  126. texaslady Says:

    The lies of liberalism ? Would that be up there with compassionate conservatism ? Would that be with NOT NATION BUILDING . Or maybe Saddam has weapons of mass destruction and worked with Osama on 9/11. Jackball, you need to check who is doing the lying.


  127. AMcG773 Says:

    “When fascism comes to America, it will be wrapped in a flag and carrying a cross”


  128. texaslady Says:

    Jackball there are more far left thinking soldiers than young republicans so be very careful with what you say. The far left are the ones fighting for decent treatment of the wounded vets and the GI bill that will pay for tuition. The far left are the ones fighting for our rights as Americans. You really need to open your mind and listen to someone other than Rush and O’Reilly.


  129. dbadass Says:

    jackball Says:
    April 2nd, 2008 at 6:13 pm

    I am confused as to how you can at first acknowledge that yours is an opinion and then move on to try to make statements of implied “fact” based on what has already been acknowledged by you to be nothing more than opinion.


  130. StratRat Says:

    jackball Says:
    April 2nd, 2008 at 6:13 pm
    Its sad reflection of TP how most comments here are nothing more than juvenile rants of foul language and insults that offer nothing of value.

    The difficulty we have communicating with you is that we never know how slowly to speak and how to choose very small words and still get our point across. You question our patriotism and then wonder why the vitriol comes you way. You support a criminal enterprise - to the detriment of your own country - and you wonder why the insults? I have tried to read your words and really, you just parrot what limbaugh or o’reilly told you to say. Sh!thead, 75% of YOUR FELLOW AMERICANS think your king is doing a bad job - 75%!. Are you going to sit there and say 75% of your neighbors are un-American? Or maybe it is just YOU!?

    Keep dreaming your little dreams….And start saving your money for retirement. Bush will make sure there is none left for you. Hard to make a living on minimum wage, huh? maybe you should have finished high school?


  131. Shayne Says:

    KayInMaine Says:
    April 2nd, 2008 at 6:04 pm

    Did our Forefathers wear a flag pin?

    What would John Adams say about our flag pins being made in China?


  132. Doc Rock Says:

    We should run these Fascists out of town tarred, feathered, and ridden out of town on a rail (sharpened side up) like the Sons of Liberty did to Torys!


  133. Zee Says:

    “Obama Would Consider Gore for Major Post”

    Um, McWars, how is that relevant to Rove and flag pins?

    And in answer to your plea, maybe Gore would not like to serve alongside Bush Sr., whom Obama also said he would tap for (gag) advice. Just sayin’.

    Texas Lady…amen! All these flag-waving, SUV-driving, yellow ribbon brandishing “patriots” don’t seem to lay their beliefs on the line as far as signing up to serve, do they? I mean the ones preachin’ online and on bumperstickers and on campus as College Republicans.


  134. texaslady Says:

    So the rantings of Pat Robertson are better than the nut job of J. Wright ? And who is the one endorsing McCain that doesn’t believe in women’s rights ? Or what about bush wanting the head doc to be someone who believes prayer will help PMS.
    And we are finding out that not all prisoners in Guantanamo are terriorists, some are children, well were when they were imprisoned. So, look for someone else to keep you safe, it ain’t bush.


  135. Zee Says:

    Shayne…the saddest thing is to see the tattered flags on monstrous vehicles (does anyone remember that worn-out flags are SUPPOSED to be burned? in honor?) …and the Made In China bumperstickers that say “These colors don’t run” —- with all of the color washed out!!


  136. texaslady Says:

    Ok I will bite how much of Hannity’s concerts go for the children and how much does Rush give ? In verified amounts after the top has been skimmed please.


  137. Dr. Hussein Matt Says:

    jackball Says:
    April 2nd, 2008 at 6:24 pm
    Hannity’s freedom concerts pay for the education of children who’ve had a parent killed in the war.

    Big Deal. Hannity’s insists on daily basis that US soldiers must die to save herr dubyah’s face. Hannity has blood on his hands….he murdered those parents.


  138. Dr. Hussein Matt Says:

    # jackball Says:
    April 2nd, 2008 at 6:13 pm
    Its sad reflection of TP how most comments here are nothing more than juvenile rants of foul language and insults that offer nothing of value

    ROFL!!! Should we call you the pot or kettle, jackoff?


  139. dbadass Says:

    Zee Says:
    April 2nd, 2008 at 6:28 pm

    You just made my day. I had the most surreal experience a few days ago with a rusted out F-150 adorned in odd slogans and assorted NRA related stuff. The faded These Colors Don’t Run sticker just put the whole weird deal over the top. Trying to explain to friends the total effect of the rising morning sun on the back of this collection of weird stereotypical nonsense was impossible. Bless you!!


  140. StratRat Says:

    Do you know how much Rush or Hannity have given to vets? Hannity’s freedom concerts pay for the education of children who’ve had a parent killed in the war. As much as Rush is demonized by the left, he’s donated and/or raised literally tens of millions for military families. O’Reilly’s still a arrogant jerk though.

    Puleeeeze! How do you reconcile the fact that Limbaugh and Hannity are responsible for cheerleading the deaths of thousands of our brave soldiers? Because they gave away someone elses money? That seems to balance out for you? A little bit of money, for someones life?

    First thing nimrod, show us where your heros actually generated any useful funds for the military (link please), then show me where your heros volunteered to fight this war. Their wealth grows as people like you devote hours to listening to them. That does not count. And neither do you.


  141. texaslady Says:

    Jackball hope you are still here because I just googled hannity and rush and Hannity gives LESS than 1% of his concert earnings to the kids. Rush’s support is for a viewer to PAY $49.95 for rush’s newletter to send to a soldier.
    WOW what patriots they are !!! You need to do some research before trying to sell your idols.


  142. StratRat Says:

    Texaslady is very, very smart. What say you Jackball?


  143. dbadass Says:

    jackball Says:
    April 2nd, 2008 at 6:31 pm

    Would this be another one of those opinions?


  144. woodguy Says:

    dbadass Says:
    April 2nd, 2008 at 6:19 pm
    jackball Says:
    April 2nd, 2008 at 6:13 pm

    I am confused as to how you can at first acknowledge that yours is an opinion and then move on to try to make statements of implied “fact” based on what has already been acknowledged by you to be nothing more than opinion.

    You beat me to it. Rant after rant after rant and not a single
    fact. It’s hard to even classify what these clowns spew as opinion. There’re a bunch of Pavlovian dogs. Have talking point, will salivate at any given signal.
    le fact


  145. abarts Says:

    No flag pin?! That’s un-Amuriken. Off to GitMO with ‘em!


  146. Zee Says:

    Well, dang, dbadass, you’re welcome!

    ====

    “…if you want your guy Obama to win in November, then he’d better start putting his hand over his heart when he hears the national anthem for a change. ”

    That photo’s been debunked, jackball, but I know that won’t stop it from being used over and over again. All’s fair, huh?

    I mean, McCain campaigned for George “Macaca” Allen, despite the fact he HAS a daughter of Indian heritage. If he’ll not defend his own daughter, no chance he’ll defend any opponents from spurious charges.


  147. specialist f Says:

    And where were insHannity,limpballs,and sweaty teddy when it was there turn to serve????
    Nugent deficated on himself for a week straight to get out of Nam!What a badass!


  148. abarts Says:

    StratRat Says:
    April 2nd, 2008 at 6:35 pm
    Do you know how much Rush or Hannity have given to vets? Hannity’s freedom concerts pay for the education of children who’ve had a parent killed in the war. As much as Rush is demonized by the left, he’s donated and/or raised literally tens of millions for military families. O’Reilly’s still a arrogant jerk though.

    Do you mean copies of their latest failures….err….books?


  149. texaslady Says:

    #158 - They had “other” priorities like all the Young Republicans, like Spring Break and Keggers.


  150. woodguy Says:

    Don’t know where “le fact” came from in #155. Maybe too many French (not freedom) fries.


  151. texaslady Says:

    But for every Jackball, there are more used to be Republicans who are sick about the disaster bush and cheney have made of their party. Some have been believers all their voting life and are changing because of the debacle this administration has done to our country. So rant on jackball…


  152. texaslady Says:

    Jackball you know for a fact ? Where is the proof ? Rush himself has mocked what he says on the radio as anything to make a buck. Let’s see proof.


  153. StratRat Says:

    Try a little harder with google…
    http://www.FauxNoise.com/ Drug_addict_story/ 0,2933,303569,00.html

    No, dear boy, you try a little harder. Fox News is your source? Fox News? You are more far gone than I imagined. I am afraid nobody can help you at this point. To offer up Fox news as a reliable source speaks volumes about your knowledge of current events.

    BTW, I fixed your link. I think it makes more sense now.


  154. woodguy Says:

    jackball Says:
    April 2nd, 2008 at 6:45 pm
    texaslady,
    Don’t try to make me defend those radio guys, that’s not my function.
    I do know for a fact that Rush gave millions of his own money to the Marine Corps Law Enforcement Foundation.

    Does this guy even understand his own drivel? Read the above post. He claims he doesn’t do something and in the next sentence does exactly that. And he doesn’t even realize it.

    I’m outta here. This is like shooting fish in a cesspool…um…barrel. Thanks for the input.


  155. MCMetal Says:

    jackball Says:
    April 2nd, 2008 at 5:08 pm
    LOL, TP lefties trying to lecture anyone on the definition of a real American is rich.
    Please, most of you people have wholly un-american opinions, that much is perfectly clear by reading the ridiculous comments regularly posted on this site.

    As if you’re one to lecture to others on being a “real American” , jackoff ?

    Why do knuckleheads like yourself , part of an ever-shrinking minority who adores the worst president in US history , believe you know the definition of anything , much less who is or isn’t a “patriot” ?

    I got news for you , junior . Either you’re a Chimpy backer or you’re a “real American” ; it is impossible to be both , as they are contradictory ………….


  156. MCMetal Says:

    texaslady Says:
    April 2nd, 2008 at 6:44 pm
    #158 - They had “other” priorities like all the Young Republicans, like Spring Break and Keggers.

    Yeah , like that stupid school in Utah ; where the students play beer pong drinking ROOT BEER !?!?!?!?!?!?!?


  157. MCMetal Says:

    jackball Says:
    April 2nd, 2008 at 6:55 pm
    Like true liberal lunes, when faced with undeniable facts that Limbaugh indeed donated millions of his money to a military charity, you *still* won’t accept it.
    LOL, fine, whatever. I couldn’t care less to convince you, but it does show how unbelievably gullible and naive you are. Like I said before, its like pissing in the wind with you people.

    “Lunes” ?


  158. texaslady Says:

    Ruch sold a letter on E-Bay for $2 mill and said he would match the funds but considering his credibility, like all drug users should go to prison, but he didn’t. I need to see confirmation.


  159. abarts Says:

    If Rush or Hannity or SEXUAL PREDATOR..I mean O’Reilly donate any money, I would imagine it is out of pure guilt, being as THEY couldn’t serve their country when the country needed them.


  160. texaslady Says:

    Hey Jackball I didn’t proclaim about all the charity works of Hannity and Rush, you did so give me some confirmation. We know Hannity didn’t so did Rush match the money ?


  161. StratRat Says:

    Like I said before, its like pissing in the wind with you people.

    And you’re the one who is all wet. LOL. Limbaugh tells Fox news he does something, and you simply believe him. Then you take this little nugget of BS and you send it on down the road. So the lie grows and grows. Nobody checks the facts - certainly not you. Nobody questions the facts - certainly not you. And since you don’t hink for yourself, the facts - as you see them - live on. Actually, they are not facts, but you don’t care - you just wanna be one of the kewl kids for limbaugh. Quite the little clubhouse you guys have. All the Viagra you can handle. Have you and rush kissed yet? Finally, you get to have a boyfriend.


  162. texaslady Says:

    Jackball, liberals are not quaking in the shoes because “evil dooers” are coming. Liberals want facts and answers. But as you mentioned you would like to join the military, Generals are saying a draft will be necessary the way we are going, you will get your wish.


  163. StratRat Says:

    texaslady Says:
    April 2nd, 2008 at 7:18 pm

    But as you mentioned you would like to join the military, Generals are saying a draft will be necessary the way we are going, you will get your wish.

    Yep…And I bet my mortgage that when that time comes, little jackball will be hoofing it for Canada or somewhere else he can hide. After all, those that want war so much are truly too frightened to fight it themselves.


  164. KayInMaine Says:

    Jackoff, tell us what you do to show your patriotism. Thanks pal.


  165. KayInMaine Says:

    # jackball Says:
    April 2nd, 2008 at 7:24 pm

    Oh, facts texaslady?

    Here’s one for you.
    Military recruitment goals have been exceeded, again.

    http://www.defenselink.mil/ releases/ release.aspx?releaseid=11742

    Tell me this: DOES THE DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE GIVE THEIR GOAL NUMBERS BEFORE THEY CREATE THESE CHARTS? If not, then that means these numbers are useless and are probably not accurate. Just another instance of the DOD and another level of Bush’s Regime lying to make itself feel better.


  166. woodguy Says:

    KayInMaine Says:
    April 2nd, 2008 at 7:26 pm
    Jackoff, tell us what you do to show your patriotism. Thanks pal.

    Better put on your hip boots. You’re asking for some deep s**t there, lady. :-)


  167. StratRat Says:

    jackball Says:
    April 2nd, 2008 at 7:24 pm
    Oh, facts texaslady?

    Here’s one for you.
    Military recruitment goals have been exceeded, again.

    You truly do not read, do you? Recruiters now can take someone who is 40+ years old, with a limited number of felonies on their criminal record - FELONIES. Also, crime of moral turpitude can be waived. Gang affiliation used to prevent you from joining, but no more. If your in a gang, we can use you. Mental issues are overlooked, minimal education is accepted (8th grade). How low will our standards have to be for us to continually meet these goals? Just think, with the military standards being so lax, even you could get accepted. Well, maybe.


  168. tombaker Says:

    jacksballs is one real Hatriotic mofo - good for you! mr. jacksballs.


  169. dbadass Says:

    jackball
    Are you intentionally avoiding any discussion of the fine art of dialogue which I have offered you? It seems you have a predetermined agenda which allows no place for open minded thought or Socratic interaction


  170. PatrioticLiberalChristian Says:

    I know for a fact (okay, no I don’t - I’m pretending to be a troll) that jackballs is a groundskeeper for a semi-pro football team. It’s his job to move the goal posts. I also know for a fact that he wears his flag pin on his jock strap. He is one patriotic dude.


  171. dbadass Says:

    StratRat Says:
    April 2nd, 2008 at 7:32 pm

    You truly do not read, do you? Recruiters now can take someone who is 40+ years old, with a limited number of felonies on their criminal record - FELONIES. Also, crime of moral turpitude can be waived. Gang affiliation used to prevent you from joining, but no more. If your in a gang, we can use you. Mental issues are overlooked, minimal education is accepted (8th grade). How low will our standards have to be for us to continually meet these goals? Just think, with the military standards being so lax, even you could get accepted. Well, maybe.


    Soon they might even allow those dangerous gays.


  172. KayInMaine Says:

    jackball Says:
    April 2nd, 2008 at 7:31 pm

    Yes, yes KaylnMain, et al,
    Every fact that proves you people wrong is, of course, biased and inaccurate. Typical. Funny, but typical.

    Oh really? Can you link us to this month’s estimate by the DOD for May then? Thanks pal.


  173. DallasNE Says:

    Here is McCain’s flag pin. He wears it proudly.

    Iraqi’s killed:
    Period Total
    Mar-08 976
    Feb-08 674
    Jan-08 554
    Dec-07 548


  174. pete Says:

    The terms “liberal” and “conservative”, in American politics, have lost their former meaning. “Liberals” wish to regulate commerce, and limit executive power, for the benefit of the individual. “Conservatives” wish to regulate individual behavior, and suck the bloated teat of unregulated commerce, while worshiping a supreme executive.

    From where I stand it’s the “conservatives” who stand against those ideals which made America great. Furthermore, today’s “conservatives” have committed the most unforgivable sin known to man. THEY WRONGFULLY INVADED A SOVEREIGN NATION!

    To lend one’s support to the criminals who control our government damns one along with them. A lifetime of continuous torture is too good for them.


  175. justsayin Says:

    maybe it’s a bait and switch thing? look at Obama without the flag, so that you don’t see what else Obama is saying or doing?