Home > Thinking Right > Archives > 2006 > September > 20 > Entry

Mailing Address: America

By Jim Wooten | Wednesday, September 20, 2006, 07:39 AM

The Atlanta Journal-Constitution

Perhaps all of us should be inured by now to the worldview ramblings of billionaires like Ted Turner and George Soros. Perhaps. But in remarks Tuesday night at a Reuters news service gathering billionaire Turner was in rare form. U.S. intervention in Iraq caused “incalculable damage,” that will require two decades to overcome “if we just act reasonably intelligently,” said he.

On Iraq: “It will go down in history, it is already seen in history, as one of the dumbest moves that was ever made by anybody. A couple of others that come to mind were the Japanese bombing of Pearl Harbor and the German invasion of Russia.” That war, Turner continued, “literally broke my heart. You don’t start wars just because you don’t like somebody…”

Of three world leaders in New York Tuesday — American President George W. Bush, Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad and Citizen of the World Turner — two were in agreement. Ahmadinejad and Turner. Ahmadinejad insisted to the UN General Assembly that Iran’s nuclear program is “transparent, peaceful and under the watchful eye” of UN inspectors. President Bush, in addressing the UN, spoke to the people of Iran: “Your rulers have chosen to deny you liberty and to use your nation’s resources to fund terrorism, and fuel extremism, and pursue nuclear weapons.” Into that impasse steps Citizen of the World Turner to adjudicate, in the finest tradition of unaffiliated free-agent liberalism, the dispute before him. It’s a “joke,” said Turner, that Iran can’t have nuclear weapons if we can.

“They’re a soverign state. We have 28,000. Why can’t they have 10? We don’t say anything about Israel — they’ve got 100 of them approximately — or India or Pakistan or Russia.” And then this spokesman for the One World New Millenium issued his final verdict: “And, really, nobody should have them. They aren’t useable by any sane person.”

In a nation that lives daily under the threat of mortal danger, the signals from the left are powerful, clear and consistent: They don’t see threats, except those we cause. They see the world as a playground. If Georgie has 28,000 nukes, Ehud’s got 100, then of course Mahmoud should have 10. Let’s talk. The worldview that keeps coming out of the mouths of the anti-war left is the one that existed prior to 9/11. They simply do not get it. And that failure makes turning national leadership over to them a very dangerous prospect in a dangerous world. How many should Mahmoud have? Zero.

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Comments

By Brian Curtis

September 20, 2006 08:17 AM | Link to this

So, someone points out the current administration’s hypocrisy… and the predictable reaction from the right-wing crowd is to shoot the messenger for “treason.”

Nothing new here, Wooten; I would’ve hoped you could offer some insight or a fresh perspective instead of just toeing the White House propaganda line.

By Inbred Inertia

September 20, 2006 08:22 AM | Link to this

Bomb Bomb Bomb, Bomb Bomb Iran

Bomb Bomb Bomb, Bomb Bomb Iran

Oh Bomb Iran

ANd nuke that clan

Bomb Iran

We’ve got to nuke the ayatolla

Stick it up his hola

Bomb Iran.

(sung to the tune of Barbara Ann by the Beach Boys)

By rednecks - Amerikkka's Al Qaeda

September 20, 2006 08:32 AM | Link to this

Ted Turner is a silly manic-depressive whoremongering redneck. The only differences between him and Dumbya are 1) Dumbya prefers sex with men, 2) Ted is treating his mental illness, and 3) Ted is intelligent.

Ted for President.

By Van

September 20, 2006 08:36 AM | Link to this

If Ted Turner had a history of being rational, then he might have some call for us to listen to him. I do agree with him on one item, it was the dumbest idea to attack Pearl Horbor and to invade Russia.

Same thing with Jimmy Carter.

They both have used their celebrity status to say some of the dumbest things possible.

Regarding nuclear weapons, India and Isreal do not have a history of supporting terrorism. Pakistan, I am not sure about.

And the world wants to know if we should get rid of ours, not while Iran even has 1 or North Korea. Unstable governments do not make for safe keeping of WMD’s

By Profiles in Conservative Courage

September 20, 2006 08:53 AM | Link to this

It’s vewwwy scarey even here under my bed. But I wuv President Bush, he will protect me.

By getalife

September 20, 2006 09:02 AM | Link to this

Well of course, when an idiot invades a country for cheaper gas prices, other countries are going to want nukes to protect themselves.

Iraq, the disaster that keeps on screwing up the world daily.

Ted is telling the truth.

By JoeD

September 20, 2006 09:06 AM | Link to this

Ted Turner is media mogul, restauranteur, buffalo farmer and philanthropist. He is not, I repeat, not a politician. No one is suggesting turning anything over to him. He is no more representative of the Democratic Party than Pat Robertson is of the GOP. Jim’s cute and clever attempt to scare the general populace (gee, where have we seen that before) is pathetic. Ted Turner is a private citizen who can say what he wants, but he is not a world leader and he is not a Democratic candidate for anything. Can’t you come up with something a little less cute and a little more substantial, Jim?

By Buffalo Bob

September 20, 2006 09:07 AM | Link to this

Profiles in being a pantywaste you need to STFU!

In a nation that lives daily under the threat of mortal danger

I can’t support this statement enough. A real life example occured yesterday:

I was driving on 285 when I noticed two turban waerers in the lane next to me (in a mini-van, no less) doing the EXACT same speed as me for about a quarter mile.

I manned up for as long as I could, I even threw them a hard, and I mean HARD glare. But when the passenger popped open the glove compartment and stuck her hand in there - I lost it.

I slammed on my breaks, cut across 4 lanes of traffic and bolted off on the next exit. I pulled into a parking lot and freaked out for a bit. Took me a 1/2 hour of listening to Rush, to get back on the freeway and make my home.

I was still shaken when I walked in the front door, but is stood firm knowing I have what it takes to survive in this ultra-dangerous world!

By MELO

September 20, 2006 09:13 AM | Link to this

“Regarding nuclear weapons, India and Isreal do not have a history of supporting terrorism. Pakistan, I am not sure about. And the world wants to know if we should get rid of ours, not while Iran even has 1 or North Korea. Unstable governments do not make for safe keeping of WMD’s’ Van

And i bet Van and Jim share the same sentiment that only the USA should have nukes.Its not gonna happen like that! Lets take Pakistan for example. They have nukes and are undemocratic as they come. But look who is supporting Pakistan right now, u guessed it right, because the USA is only concerned about her own interests. Which is not a bad thing but the thing is even the USA which is a paragon of virtue and morality is not consistent with its message and practices.That is why the world, outside of UK,Italy and others that it can bribe with money hates American foreing policy. I wish some of you would just live in another country just for 1 year and listen to other views outside of American journalists. Then u will wake up a bit. America is prepared to support the worst dictators(Sadaam,Mobutu,Musharaaf,Shah of Iran….should i go on) as long as they are serving as a ‘useful” tool in American foreign policy, to the detriment of the citizens of those dictator countries who may be clamoring for their own rights. There is a history(documented) to all this hypocricy and it is not just a left or right issue. American policy is dictated by the need to be dominant over everybody(because they are the only righteous God’s people)Believe this all you conservatives if you want but it aint so. Iraq is burning now. You cannot touch Iran now. Wont happen!!

By olcottr

September 20, 2006 09:31 AM | Link to this

“And, really, nobody should have them. They aren’t useable by any sane person.” He hit the nail on the head there. Unfortunately, his “solution” is inane. We don’t want Iran to have nuclear weapons, because their leader is not sane, and proves it almost daily with his destroy America and destroy Israel mantras. And if nobody should have nuclear weapons, then why suggest that everyone have one, Ted? Seems he’s speaking out of both sides of his mouth. Or maybe he’s just not as smart as his slavish liberal followers think.

By Van

September 20, 2006 09:32 AM | Link to this

MELO

You forgot the other Nuclear powers - France, democratic, maybe, England, hmm, they speak something called english, english, instead of american english, Russia, big place, scary women. China cute pandas and big bombs.

It is a small club, why invite trouble, let them have nuclear power, just make sure they do not make weapons.

By R Cagle

September 20, 2006 09:37 AM | Link to this

Ted Turner may just be a private citizen billionaire, but anyone who thinks he doesn’t spread political influence with his billions and his connections is being disingenuous or naïve, or both. Ted doesn’t have to be a politician or in charge of anything but his buffalo ranch in order to support those who share his views. The mere fact Reuters gave him a forum is sadly illustrative of his being a voice of importance to some. George Soros puts his billions where his mouth is by supporting the Democrats and left-wing causes. Is he just a “private citizen” saying what he wants? Grow up.

By time for the truth

September 20, 2006 09:45 AM | Link to this

Ted Turner’s geopolitical PIG IGNORANCE like most smug far left lefties knows no bounds. Even a squashed flat rabid possum with week old road kill rigor mortis has more political insight than the likes of Turner!!

Iran having nukes is no different to Hitler having nukes and if anything is even worse as Hitler was just a demented genocidal nazi whereas the Iranians are demented genocidal mohammedan nazis.

Looking at the usual robotic spiteful cretinous anti-Bush sneers by the resident liberal vermin on here one is tempted to reasonably demand the stepping up of NSA surveillance to include far left traitors and appeasers. Oooops too late - its already happening … huge paranoid smirk … Hark what’s that knock at the door hate America lefties??? Lets hope its Bush’s secret police come to deport you to Cuba!!

I have to say Bugger Off Bob’s story about folks simply trying to return a sex toy to him in motorway traffic was even more paranoid than usual on here.

By time for the truth

September 20, 2006 09:48 AM | Link to this

Its pretty obvious to clear thinking folks that Turner has again been eating too many buffalo “chips” and not enough buffalo steaks (gedditt??)

By Harold

September 20, 2006 09:57 AM | Link to this

One does have to wonder why is ok for Pakistan to have Nucuclar Wearpons and for North Korea to have Nucular Wearpons but not for Iran to have Nucular Wearpons.

Doubleya Standards I suppose

By Profiles in Conservative Courage

September 20, 2006 10:01 AM | Link to this

Thanks Bob, for your stirring story. I’m sorry if I upset you, but I must tell your courage in standing up to those towel heads with your hard look inspires me and many others on the blog, like this time for the truth lady. We both wish we had your courage.

Thanks Mr. Wooten, for providing a forum for us conservatives to talk about openly but anonymously about our fears, not only of the Mohammedans in Iraq and the Middle East, but our fears of blacks, Mexicans, women, homosexuals, liberals, teenagers, educated people, foreigners, and heterosexual sex.

By Curious Observer

September 20, 2006 10:01 AM | Link to this

There is no sane excuse for standing by while Iran develops nuclear weapons, for when that happens, we can expect Armaggedon. It isn’t just that the current president of Iran is crazy—in fact, he is a relatively powerless nutcase who must take direction from the religious leaders of that regime. Rather, the power to use those weapons will be in the hands of a few mullahs who will willingly start World War III, even though they know they will be wiped out, in exchange for striking a blow at the western world. And make no mistake, China and Russia will back Iran by bringing the threat of their own nuclear arsenals to bear should anyone attempt to retaliate.

I’ve always considered Ted Turner an innovative but foolish person, and his statements at least prove the latter quality. To regard nuclear weapons as though they were so many toys that every country should be able to possess as a matter of fair play is to demonstrate a reckless disregard for humanity.

By JoeD

September 20, 2006 10:05 AM | Link to this

I wasn’t suggesting that Ted doesn’t spend money on political causes. I was saying that Ted does not run the Democratic Party and is not running for office. he does not set policy for the Democrats, either. He is a private citizen and can say what he wants. If you have some proof that the Democrats have adopted the Turner doctrine set out in this article, then put it out there. Otherwise, Jim is just trying the old guilt by association game here, or guilt by political contribution.

By time for the truth

September 20, 2006 10:08 AM | Link to this

The lefties on here need to solemnly remember the old supremely wise cliche that “you cannot disinvent the bomb” and you dont allow [any more] mortal enemies to have “the bomb”. Given the shiite predilection for irrational musings about the return of the Mahdi - N.B. not to be confused with the Jedhi - their Goebbels and Himmler like attitude to Israel, along with their various acts of war against the US, anything necessary including overwhelming military force is the requisite foreign policy to prevent them having nuclear weapons.

Their need for such technology is almost non-existent. Their oil reserves are way beyond huge - and although their refining capacity is limited they trade crude oil for refined oil all day long. Given their region’s frequent massive earthquakes nuclear power plants are a bad enough risk anyway.

By rednecks - Amerikkka's Al Qaeda

September 20, 2006 10:14 AM | Link to this

Greetings, redneck stumpbroke trash and the few decent folks that post here, it is I, rednecks - Amerikkka’s Al Qaeda, on the road again today, this morning in Losereeana, here amongst the trash and human detritus that call themselves southerners.

Lots of churches. Many more churches than schools. People spending more money and time on their fantasy lives than on education.

The South - America’s Pakistan. Bloodthirsty, stupid religous fanatics are in charge. Just like Iran.

huge smirk

By getalife

September 20, 2006 10:22 AM | Link to this

Things You Have to Believe to be a Republican

Jesus loves you, and shares your hatred of homosexuals and Hillary. Saddam was a good guy when Reagan armed him, a bad guy when Bush’s daddy made war on him, a good guy when Cheney did business with him, and a bad guy when Bush needed a “we can’t find Bin Laden” diversion.

Trade with Cuba is wrong because the country is Communist, but trade with China and Vietnam is vital to a spirit of international harmony.

The United States should get out of the United Nations, and our highest national priority is enforcing U.N. resolutions against Iraq.

A woman can’t be trusted with decisions about her own body but multi-national corporations can make decisions affecting all mankind without regulation.

The best way to improve military morale is to praise the troops in speeches, while slashing veterans’ benefits and combat pay.

If condoms are kept out of schools, adolescents won’t have sex.

A good way to fight terrorism is to belittle our long-time allies, then demand their cooperation and money.

Providing health care to all Iraqis is sound policy, but providing health care to all Americans is socialism. HMOs and insurance companies have the best interests of the public at heart.

Global warming and tobacco’s link to cancer are junk science, but creationism should be taught in schools.

A president lying about an extra-marital affair is an impeachable offense, but a president lying to enlist support for a war in which thousands die is solid defense policy.

Government should limit itself to the powers named in the Constitution, which include banning gay marriages and censoring the Internet.

The public has a right to know about Hillary’s cattle trades, but GeorgeBush’s driving record is none of our business.

Being a drug addict is a moral failing and a crime, unless you’re a conservative radio host. Then it’s an illness and you need our prayers for your recovery.

What Bill Clinton did in the 1960’s is of vital national interest, but what Bush did in the ‘80’s is irrelevant.

If you don’t send this to at least 10 other people, we’re likely to be stuck with more Republicans in 08, and remember: Friends don’t let friends vote Republican!

By TP

September 20, 2006 10:22 AM | Link to this

All I can say is TED TURNER FOR PRESIDENT!!!

By time for the truth

September 20, 2006 10:23 AM | Link to this

the few decent folks that post here

Cheers rednekkks vermin, on behalf of Van, Realist, jbm and Barbara time for the truth thanks you for your warm greetings and wishes you a speedy near fatal encounter with a very ornery conservative leaning gator down on one of them there Katrina damaged bayous!! …smirk

By Redneck Convert

September 20, 2006 10:27 AM | Link to this

Howdy, all. I see Wooten is giving all the libruls what for, and TFTT is right with him. And I’m sure that Markus will soon be out of the crazy house after he went off and wanted all the libruls to get their throat cut by the terrists on the streets of America because the golf club didn’t have no cheese sandwiches.

Well, I say bomb Iran back to the stone age. And while we are at it, let’s burn Russia and China into cinders. It worked for Japan, and we didn’t stand by and let the Japanese develop nukclear weapons back then.

In fact, I wished I had an A-bomb yesterday for the guy that plowed into the back of my truck on Ga. 400. The idiot was so tied up on his cell phone that he didn’t even notice traffic had come to a stand still in front of him. He sure made a mess of my mortar mixer.

Ted Turner is a idiot. He was OK back when he brought rassling to old Channel 17. I must have broke four TV sets throwing shoes at the rasslers I hated. But then he went on and started that librul network and then more librul networks. I hope he gets drowned in a huge pile of buffalo doo on one of his ranches and that it will take a nukclear bomb to dig him out.

By Eric

September 20, 2006 10:29 AM | Link to this

By Inbred Inertia

September 20, 2006 08:22 AM | Link to this

Bomb Bomb Bomb, Bomb Bomb Iran

Bomb Bomb Bomb, Bomb Bomb Iran

Oh Bomb Iran

ANd nuke that clan

Bomb Iran

We’ve got to nuke the ayatolla

Stick it up his hola

Bomb Iran.

(sung to the tune of Barbara Ann by the Beach Boys)

Now THAT is funny, I don’t care WHICH group if idiots you worship, Democraps OR Repubicans

By Eric

September 20, 2006 10:31 AM | Link to this

“India and Isreal do not have a history of supporting terrorism. Pakistan, I am not sure about.”

I’d be willing to bet there are people who disagree with that statement.

By MELO

September 20, 2006 10:34 AM | Link to this

“There is no sane excuse for standing by while Iran develops nuclear weapons, for when that happens, we can expect Armaggedon”-Curious Observer

This is the most dump and ignorant statement ive had so far today.U obviuosly missed Brian Williams’ interview with the President if Iran last nite! U would have understood how the guy is one of the most articulate and intelligent leaders on the planet.Iranians like Americans(most) desire and cherish the same or most aspirations as most people on the planet, peace, propserity, harmony and good neighbouliness. As a transplant in this Country and being from a Third world country,I have a perspective that a lot(if not most) Americans do not have. Americans have a tendency to look down on anything that is foreign( and in many cases unobjectively and biased) and look at worldly issues with “American eyes” Personally, i think this stems form the fact that America was never a big colonizer, consequently, interaction and understanding with outside cultures lags behind Britain, France Italy etc.

Iran understands that the Middle East is a dangerous place and desires to be a big palyer with influence. That does not necessarily translate to wanting to Bomb America or anybody else! It is a desire to be relavant in the region and not to play second fiddle to US AND Israel and have these two dictate Middle east policy!

Why is the USA the one shouting the loudest against nuclear weapons for Iran anyway? Why not the UN? or is the UN the USA? This is a cover to divert from the mess in Iraq, and the failed policy on North Korea, which has nuclear weapons already. Give us a break Mr Bush.

By time for the truth

September 20, 2006 10:38 AM | Link to this

Well, I say bomb Iran back to the stone age. And while we are at it, let’s burn Russia and China into cinders. It worked for Japan, and we didn’t stand by and let the Japanese develop nukclear weapons back then.

JOLLY WELL SAID INBRED REDNECK!!!

Finally you post something we can ALL agree on. Every day you do a superb job of pretending??? to be a simpleton imbecile but occasionally - just like a million chimps using typewriters eventually would - you come up with a rare gem of wisdom!!

Dont spoil it by trying again this year - just quietly bask in your well deserved glory for a long long while!!

By time for the truth

September 20, 2006 10:39 AM | Link to this

Eric

the Pakis being one obvious example!!

By time for the truth

September 20, 2006 10:44 AM | Link to this

U obviuosly missed Brian Williams’ interview with the President if Iran last nite! U would have understood how the guy is one of the most articulate and intelligent leaders on the planet.Iranians like Americans(most) desire and cherish the same or most aspirations as most people on the planet, peace, propserity, harmony and good neighbouliness. As a transplant in this Country and being from a Third world country

MELO is clearly an extremely bewildered nutjob from somewhere like Libya or Syria!! Are you also an illegal MELO? Tell us about the murderous terrorism of Hizbollocks and Hamas etc that the Iranians pay for and mastermind - is that good neighbourliness??

By Filster

September 20, 2006 10:46 AM | Link to this

MELO:

What are you on, and can I have some? If you're out, where can I score some

By getalife

September 20, 2006 10:51 AM | Link to this

Keep posting “lies”.

You show the people how wrong the right is on everything and increase our chances for accountability for your party’s mindset.

Good job.

By Lets put anta back in Atlanta

September 20, 2006 10:51 AM | Link to this

I know this isn’t the blog for this, but I couldn’t help noticing the love crime that occured when 5 black guys one black girl and a white trash girl robbed students at GSU. I bet if the students pants were around their ankles the students would not have been robbed. You can feel the love in this particular crime. In no way could their be any hate involved

By JK

September 20, 2006 10:55 AM | Link to this

Our “do as we say, not as we do” double standard is one of the main reason people hate us as a nation and a people. And if YOU practice this in YOUR life, at work or in your personal relationships, guess what? That’s right. You only THINK you’re Mister Popularity. Yup. Is that a spitball on the back of your neck?

By time for the truth

September 20, 2006 11:08 AM | Link to this

Keep posting “lies”.

biting sardonic humour is the very best weapon against the vileness of the hate/blame America left!! See how easily Ms Coulter makes all of you so angry and bilious. I note as ever you have nothing substantive to say. Which is why I deploy such humour because mostly the far left on here on never ever debate - they either just parrot hate Bush cliches or post varying levels of abuse aimed at some conservatives on here. You are no better than rednekkks when it comes to NOT debating issues getabrain!!

Tell me where my serious post @ 10.08am about Iran is wrong!!

Tell us - a simple YES OR NO will do - do you support the leftist US Army deserters in Canada??!!

By R Cagle

September 20, 2006 11:12 AM | Link to this

Liberals actually arguing for the spread of nuclear weapons. It would seem that times have certainly changed, but gotta believe that such nonsense has as much to do with blind hatred of President Bush as it does with any altruistic concerns for Iran’s nuclear rights and its “…aspirations.. (for) peace, propserity, harmony and good neighbouliness”.

By getalife

September 20, 2006 11:13 AM | Link to this

“lies”, Granny will answer your question

Respect your elders boy.

By Van

September 20, 2006 11:15 AM | Link to this

Eric,

Please supply supporting instances.

While Pakistan is a wild card, India does not have a history of terrorism, unless you are refering to their attempt to help Sri Lanka the Tamil Tigers. While there have be instances of extremeist Hindus, this is not a state sponsorship of terror.

Israel, as we all know is a vile stain - just kidding - does not export terror as Iran and Syria do.

By tp

September 20, 2006 11:15 AM | Link to this

To the person who thinks Israel doesn’t have a history of supporting terrorism, you’ll have a pretty hard time trying to convince the Palastinians and Lebanese of this claim.

By time for the truth

September 20, 2006 11:18 AM | Link to this

feminazi JK

you mean the double standard of being the world’s greatest ever liberator of oppressed/conquered people in the last 60+ years? you mean the double standard of actually insisting on meaningful human rights around the globe - in the face of the majority of undemocratic UN countries that have systematically abused and continue to abuse human rights, commit genocide etc in their dictatorships/oppressive nations whilst lecturing and sneering at the US. Who do you think pays for and ships the most food aid in the world love? Who pays the largest single contribution to the UN even though its the most sneered at nation in the UN by Third World dictatorships?

why dont you wake up and smell the oppression and racism and tribalism and sexism and sectarianism and state sponsored terrorism etc around the world and just be grateful you are NOT in one of saddam’s or assad’s rape rooms or one of mugabe’s toruture prisons!!

your endless hate America drivel is real old and real pathetic love!!

By HDB in DSM

September 20, 2006 11:20 AM | Link to this

The problem is that the Republican world view is afraid to admit when American is wrong…..and the Democratic world view is afraid to admit when America is right!! The world hates American GOVERNMENT….not so much Americans that understand a simple concept….RESPECT!!

By T

September 20, 2006 11:21 AM | Link to this

The text at the top of this blog which is supposed to give impetus to further comments by readers is a pathetic, transparent attempt to push reader’s hot buttons. This is the last time I’ll drop in on Jim Wooten’s column. I think I’ve seen enough. I suggest you all try reading some insightful opinion pieces, rather than incite-ful drivil such as this.

By Redneck Convert

September 20, 2006 11:22 AM | Link to this

Fellow redneck,

I, for one, wish you a safe trip, and don’t let no gator get near you. Us rednecks have to look out for each other.

Please bring back a full report on how well the Bush people and Brownie have made Luisiana recover from that awful hurricane. Are all the houses rebuilt? Are all the people back and living in good houses? Does everbody have a job? Is the federal money coming in by the truckload?

I know I can count on you to prove to everybody that the Republicans deserve to get elected again. And I’m awful glad they look out for people when they are down on their luck. I keep telling the missus that we don’t need no trailer insurance, cause Mr. Bush will take care of us good if our place gets wiped out by a tornado.

By time for the truth

September 20, 2006 11:22 AM | Link to this

getabrain

RESPECT HAS TO BE EARNED … and in the respect stakes you’re right below that dead flattened baby copperhead around the corner from my house!!

I note as ever you still will NOT answer reasonable political questions!! …smirk

By Van

September 20, 2006 11:22 AM | Link to this

Harold,

India, Pakistan and Israel have not ratified the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons.

North Korea has withdrawn from the treaty and Iran has radified it. It had originally radified the treaty on December 12, 1985.

By Van

September 20, 2006 11:25 AM | Link to this

tp,

You mean the Egyptians in Gaza (Egypt claimed ownership) and the Jordanians in the West Bank(Former Jordanian territory).

Are you refering to the country that was created by the UN and immediatly attacked by the peaceful neighbors?

Maybe you are refering to Israel defending itself from Hezbo’s rocket attacks?

Which are you refering to?

By MELO

September 20, 2006 11:50 AM | Link to this

time for the truth and flister:

I am not from the Middle East and being here legally or not neither adds nor subtracts from the arguments i presented.

Showing your colors like i said!!

By LB

September 20, 2006 11:51 AM | Link to this

Well, Jim, I have concluded that with people right here in America who have posted responses to your article, we don’t even need enemies abroad—we have enough right here at home! It amazes me that there are still people in this country who, while being blessed with freedom, work from inside to undermine our liberties in the very name of freedom (of ideas, of rights, etc.) all the while not understanding the enemy whose avowed aim is to destroy our way of life, to dismantle our freedom piece by piece. They have plenty of spokespersons, not the least of whom is Ted Turner, George Soros, and Michael Moore! It will be amazing if we stand for another hundred years, free. There’s an old saying, “With ‘friends’ like these, we don’t NEED enemies.”

By Dana

September 20, 2006 11:54 AM | Link to this

Ahem. Good Morning!

This is (IMO) a more complicated issue than Jim’s opening commentary would make it seem. I applaud Ted caring enough and feeling strongly enough to state an opinion that may not be very popular. I LIKE that ability, it is one of the millions of reasons I love being an American and living in the USA. And I share some of his opinion in this instance. However, I do think that the (apparent) fact that the leadership and government of Iran are not particularly stable is a large concern. It DOES make me worry to think they are or will be nuclear capable soon. However, here we are, so very, very sure we are RIGHT and nearly everyone else is wrong. THAT I have a problem with. Waking up in the morning American does not make us right, better, more moral or more intelligent. On the other hand, very few of us hate others enough to die killing them, and Islamic extremists DO. And we are the ones they hate. Good for all of you who think you know the answer - because I don’t. And folks, I do not feel confident in our current leader, whom I believe has made many, many mistakes in judgement.

Our real problem here is that we do not have positive leadership, and we have no decent alternative leadership. Neither party actually has a viable candidate. Our citizens have become so removed, focused on their own individual lives and not the life of the country at large. We go to work each day, come home, rehash our day and go to bed. Most Americans have no idea who their representatives are, the last article I read suggested that less than half the eligible adults in our country vote, we have become apathetic and reactionary ONLY when our individual world is shaken.

All that to say that we have much bigger issues than the partisan ones we discuss in here. Rather than vilify those from the opposite spectrum, maybe we should be glad that everyone in here at least cares enough to have an opinion.

By MELO

September 20, 2006 12:01 PM | Link to this

‘MELO is clearly an extremely bewildered nutjob from somewhere like Libya or Syria!! Are you also an illegal MELO? Tell us about the murderous terrorism of Hizbollocks and Hamas etc that the Iranians pay for and mastermind - is that good neighbourliness??’

Are u aware that the CIA is as guilty of destabilizing foreign govts that they perceive to be enemies? Where do u think the rest of the world copied this great innovation from. Who do u think killed Patrice Lumumba for ecample.Go to South America and u see the footprints of the CIA everywhere. Dont just listen to Fox news, be open to listen to other broadcasts and read widely outside American journalism and have an open mind. U wil be amazed that America is responsible for a lot of the good(the ship-loads of food u mention) and the bad out there!!

Some of us are not led by the harness like you the right wing faithfuls.

By MELO

September 20, 2006 12:02 PM | Link to this

‘MELO is clearly an extremely bewildered nutjob from somewhere like Libya or Syria!! Are you also an illegal MELO? Tell us about the murderous terrorism of Hizbollocks and Hamas etc that the Iranians pay for and mastermind - is that good neighbourliness??’

Are u aware that the CIA is as guilty of destabilizing foreign govts that they perceive to be enemies? Where do u think the rest of the world copied this great innovation from. Who do u think killed Patrice Lumumba for ecample.Go to South America and u see the footprints of the CIA everywhere. Dont just listen to Fox news, be open to listen to other broadcasts and read widely outside American journalism and have an open mind. U wil be amazed that America is responsible for a lot of the good(the ship-loads of food u mention) and the bad out there!!

Some of us are not led by the harness like you the right wing faithfuls.

By Van

September 20, 2006 12:03 PM | Link to this

Dana,

One of the problems is that having a ton of money does not make you a brain. If Ted had donated $1000 instead of a billion to the UN, over 10 years, he would not have a platform at the UN.

If Georgie Soros was not a gazillionaire, he would not have the influence he has.

If you are rich, and present the proper front, and are a celebrity of sorts, the world is at your feet. How many Conservative, rich folks get to host events at the UN?

By CJ

September 20, 2006 12:09 PM | Link to this

“The worldview that keeps coming out of the mouths of the anti-war left is the one that existed prior to 9/11. They simply do not get it.”

Jim,

You are correct. We on the left don’t get it. Please spell it out for us.

In a post 9/11 world, why do you and others on the right continue to ignore the nuclear threat on the Korean Peninsula where the problem is significantly more serious than such threats from Iraq and Iran combined (please don’t insult us by trying to pass off the so-called “six party talks” as a serious attempt to address this problem)?

In a post 9/11 world, why does the United States need to spend limited resources to maintain 28,000 nuclear weapons – enough to destroy every living creature on the planet several hundred times over? Why can’t we reduce are nuclear arsenal to the number needed to destroy all of mankind just once and permanently disarm the other 27,990 warheads?

In a post 9/11 world, why aren’t you as p** as I am that the Republican-led Congress and the Bush administration hasn’t urgently implemented all 41 recommendations of the 9/11 report such as the recommendations that all first responders be able to communicate with one another on a single frequency, that our nuclear and chemical plants be secured, that we invest in our ports to be able to detect and interdict materials of mass destruction?

In a post 9/11 world, why aren’t you as p** as I am that Congress hasn’t urgently allocated the money necessary, as recommended by the Nunn-Lugar Cooperative Threat Reduction Initiative, to deactivate all poorly secured nuclear warheads spread throughout the former Soviet Union?

In a post 9/11 world, why aren’t you as p** as I am that the Republican-led Congress is basing its allocation of homeland security funds to congressional districts on favoritism instead of actual threats?

In a post 9/11 world, why doesn’t the President and the Republican-led Congress take consistent and urgent action to move this country quickly, significantly and permanently to other sources of energy so that we don’t contribute to those who threaten us whenever we refill our gas tanks?

In a post 9/11 world, why does our military’s Commander-in-Chief refuse to send enough troops to Afghanistan and Iraq to secure the peace – even if doing so requires a draft?

In a post 9/11 world, why can’t you on the right see that cooperation and communication with our allies makes us safer then condescension and condemnation?

No sir. We don’t get it at all.

By MELO

September 20, 2006 12:09 PM | Link to this

‘while being blessed with freedom, work from inside to undermine our liberties in the very name of freedom (of ideas, of rights, etc.) all the while not understanding the enemy whose avowed aim is to destroy our way of life, to dismantle our freedom piece by piece’.LB

Liberty and freedom to you means saying “yes master” TO EVERYTHING U SAY.Anybody who disagrees with you is a saboteur, an enemy and needs to have their phones wire-tapped.

Guess what, thats what he(Mugabe) does in Zimbabwe.LB, you may want to emigrate there because he shares your views on freedom, trust me!!!

By Dana

September 20, 2006 12:11 PM | Link to this

Van - I think you answered your own question - if conservatives want more voice in the UN they can do the same thing the liberals have, and buy their way in. Before you throw that back at me, I am NOT saying that’s right, nor am I saying that the UN is not corrupt - I think the organisation IS corrupt. However, standing outside, wringing hands and whining that they don’t have the same influence is lame to say the least.

By Al Goldstein

September 20, 2006 12:13 PM | Link to this

Booze has liquidated TTs mind long ago, First example Ms. Jane. Soros and his radically dangerous cohort live in a world created in their minds only.Their spreading poison is directed to those that love distruption and those who look at this type of celebrity for direction and they are to weak to see thru this b****** or in turners eyes buffalo chips.

By juan

September 20, 2006 12:13 PM | Link to this

Jim’s column should be renamed ThinkingWrong. Or maybe it should be named NotThinking. His argument of US and Them relies on attacking Mahmoud Ahmadinejad and Ted Turner rather than their ideas or the facts. Jim should try writing thoughtful arguments rather than weak personal attacks.

By Liberal

September 20, 2006 12:19 PM | Link to this

Ted Turner gave his own opinion, nothing more. I don’t understand why what he said is so controversial. A significant proportion of Americans think that the war was stupid…and not only liberals, but moderates and conservatives as well (Pat Buchanan).

Conservative rich folks give their opinions all of the time. In fact, some not only state their opinions, but run for office as well—i.e. Steve Forbes, Arnold Schwarzenegger, GW Bush (remember that he was an entreprenuer before running for office). Overall, this is a topic that is really not worth blogging about.

By Jim Cole

September 20, 2006 12:19 PM | Link to this

When you’re god, you can say anything that you want to say. There are many gods who speak and pontificate in our culture. Our founders guarded this tendency in man by installing a balance of power. BUT, they(the founders) ultimately placed their faith in the future of this country in the common people! The elites will forever remain clueless!

By time for the truth

September 20, 2006 12:26 PM | Link to this

Where do u think the rest of the world copied this great innovation from.

errrrr … the USSR, Red China, Cuba, South Africa, Bulgaria, Iraq, Iran, Libya, Syria, France etc - all of which have murdered opponents abroad.

Who do u think killed Patrice Lumumba for ecample.

who cares …

clearly you’re an illegal otherwise you would deny it in case one of us on here is an ICE undercover agent!!

Anybody who disagrees with you is a saboteur, an enemy and needs to have their phones wire-tapped.

finally after quite a pathetic start you actually now do get it …smirk

By Shooter

September 20, 2006 12:31 PM | Link to this

Wooten and a full moon, a magical combination to bring out the the loonies.Its a good thing they’re blogging if they weren’t we would have to keep them in the padded cells 24 hours a day.

By Van

September 20, 2006 12:31 PM | Link to this

Dana,

True -

Since we have no Royalty in this country, we gravitate to the rich and loud(Rosie anyone).

Where the liberals to increase their voice use platforms like UN celebrity titles or sponsored events, the conservatives run for office.

By babygirl

September 20, 2006 12:32 PM | Link to this

@timeforthetruth: Would you even know if someone answered questions to your satisfaction

By R Cagle

September 20, 2006 12:33 PM | Link to this

You can open your mind by reading/listening to/viewing as much as you want, but It’s bad, bad world out there even without the CIA leaving “footprints everywhere”. Do want to play by the rules of the bad guys, or the UN, or both, or do you want to at least have the upper hand in making the rules even if it means the NYT writes a strongly worded editorial condemning you?

By Brian Curtis

September 20, 2006 12:34 PM | Link to this

Does anyone have an intelligent defense of Wooten’s latest silliness? His declaration that Ted Turner is somehow the “voice of the Democratic candidates,” or that the Iraq war was suddenly—against all evidence—a Good Idea?

Obviously Andy’s disqualified, but there are some conservative-supporters here who CAN think, so let’s hear it!

By Van

September 20, 2006 12:35 PM | Link to this

CJ,

Why are not p*ed that the state of Georgia has not implemented the recommedation of the Carter/Baker report on photo voter ids? - Wait, we did vote on it and it passed and the liberal courts struck it down.

By Joe

September 20, 2006 12:36 PM | Link to this

This is the same Ted Turner that married Jane Fonda, correct? I rest my case.

By Michelle

September 20, 2006 12:40 PM | Link to this

If it was up to Conservatives like Wooten anyone could go down to the Quik Trip and buy a handgun or a nuclear weapon, they’ll keep up with the “weapons don’t kill people, people kill people” argument until it’s their kid that is accidentally shot and killed.

By time for the truth

September 20, 2006 12:41 PM | Link to this

brattishgirlie

its not answering to my “satisfaction” you dishonest dweeb -its actually just answering. I dont really care if folks agree or not - but gotnobrain, rednekkks vermin and other lefties NEVER answer questions on here, let alone awkward ones!!

By Dana

September 20, 2006 12:41 PM | Link to this

Van - I don’t agree. Conservatives throw their money around quite well. And I sincerely hope that the conservatives who have run for office are NOT the best of the group, because if they are, I am sorely disappointed. As I am in the liberals.

By Dana

September 20, 2006 12:43 PM | Link to this

We ARE p*d that the voter ID recommendation was thrown out by the courts, it’s ridiculous!

By Scooter

September 20, 2006 12:45 PM | Link to this

The middle-east is generally informed by state owned television that works to blame all local problems on Jews and the West. This misinformation and resulting hopelessness has made many in that region insane and capable of using nukes, so Turner should recognize that they will use them. Bush has initiated a long term battle to break the state owned media institution of blame displacement and in its place stand up a representative government to serve as an example of what freedom can produce, even with Israel in existence.

If you supported Bush’s long term strategy from the beginning you have watched the same dems who supported the initial mission, become political and work to destroy America’s resolve to complete the mission. I hope those Iraqi troops, eager to defend their new found freedom, hurry up because the dems will pull the rug out from under them the first chance they get. Our retreat form Somalia emboldened terrorist and our impending retreat from Iraq will do the same, what a shame.

By getalife

September 20, 2006 12:46 PM | Link to this

“Time for the truth” is the number one reason to vote out the insanity in Washington. She represents their mindset.

Keep posting “lies”, you are helping our cause for accountability really well.

Thanks.

By Janine

September 20, 2006 12:47 PM | Link to this

Mr Wooten RE: CJ’s 12:09 post. As a Republican myself,I am P—— about all of the things CJ pointed out…plus more! AND I , along with CJ, would appreciate your views on those post 911 items…AND also, one more question…Do you really believe that it is disloyal to oppose the actions of your president [esp. when he is of your own party]? AND do you really believe that Americans who speak against the president’s decisions, etc. are undermining AMerica’s success? I am having a hard time with your positions on these issues…

By Dana

September 20, 2006 12:49 PM | Link to this

TFTT - shame on you…. I answered you all day yesterday - or does my moderate label exclude me from your harangue?

By R Cagle

September 20, 2006 12:50 PM | Link to this

Mr. Wooten wasn’t saying that Turner can’t speak his mind or that he sets the agenda for the DNC. His point is that Turner’s musings are representative of liberal thinking. Turner is well known. He created CNN. He has money and influence. He is not just any old private citizen. He might not claim to speak for the left or the Democratic party, but he can certainly claim to be in solidarity with them. Why shouldn’t we all pay attention to what he or any of the other super-rich who insert themselves into public and political affairs have to say? We have this blog. They get a gigs at Reuters get-togethers.

By peter

September 20, 2006 12:52 PM | Link to this

Dear Jim,

I think no matter who Bush bombs it would be OK in the “Name” of protecting the USA…. no matter if it was justifies or really the right thing to do……you are so extreme to the right you cannot see clearly…….there has never been real conversation, or serious negotiations with the Mid east since Bush took office, only threats and intimidation by this administration.

They blame the fiasco on “poor Intelligence” when no Wepons of Mass Distruction were found………then mentioned they would have attacked Iraq anyway…..thus we found out now all has been a lie……….they were invading no matter what the country really wanted or needed at the time.

I guess no matter who we don’t like, we should go ahead and bomb and invade them, hey we are BIG so thus we can be the BULLY!

Poltics should be about open communication, and about the truth……..Jim you have a habit of seeing all things from ONE side…….and spin your Bull accordingly.

You like to rable rouse, and have little to say in general.

I guess what I really see is a guy who is not interested in communicating, but a guy who wants his agenda period……..

You behave like a guy who enjoys the ability to spilt apart America, and get americans to fight like children, as compared to a person who would want to bring all sides together, and work for the common good of ALL, not just one party or one perticular political cause.

You are just another spinner of the BULL……with a person agenda!

It seems you really DON’T love this country, but want to see it be split, and all at war with each other!

By Dusty

September 20, 2006 12:52 PM | Link to this

Jim Wooten,

You got it really really right. Go America!

Ted Turner was OK for owning the Braves at one time and marrying has-been movie stars. The guy has to have something to do. But suggestions about nuclear power, forget it.

When we want a politician like him we will elect one. Right now I prefer the honest, brave, smart and loyal president we have in office. And if he doesn’t like Ahmadinejad, I don’t either.

Ok, unlike Ted, I don’t own two states and enough buffalo to feed the Sioux Nation. But I VOTE! So there.

By cw

September 20, 2006 12:53 PM | Link to this

Let’s see: 1) Bush walks away from the non-proliferation treaty (one of Reagan’s legacies); 2) enters into a nuclear agreement with India that will increase nuclear proliferation; and 3) enters into an illegal war in Iraq so stretching our military capacity that the US cannot effetively threaten military force against Iran or North Korea without seriously considering nuclear weapons among its options, and we chide Turner. This is consistent with previous attacks by conservatives/Republicans on those who dare to think for themselves without the aid of talking points from Rove incorporated. Bush and his lemmings have almost finished destroying the US and making the world safe for terrorism.

By time for the truth

September 20, 2006 12:54 PM | Link to this

Dana - what the bloody hell are you on about?

By time for the truth

September 20, 2006 12:56 PM | Link to this

Michelle has been at that nasty crystal meth again … did you buy it at the Quik Trip love or maybe Speedway!! (gedditt??)

By Dana

September 20, 2006 01:02 PM | Link to this

You just stated that lefties don’t answer questions. “and other lefties NEVER answer questions on here, let alone awkward ones!!” I disagreed.

By CBF

September 20, 2006 01:03 PM | Link to this

Hello, Jim and everybody! Mr. Wooten, you have my vote on this one. Iran has proven to be a global loose cannon. Number of “nukes” they should have: ZERO! We reach!

By JK

September 20, 2006 01:06 PM | Link to this

CW breaks it down for y’all short-bus riders at 12:53. I’ll take it a step further and remind you that he receives heavy support from the Armageddon watchers among us: “Hurry on up, Lord! We’s almost out of oil, trees, and clean drinking water down here! Time to blow the mother and find a new planet! Halelujah!”

By time for the truth

September 20, 2006 01:08 PM | Link to this

This is getting funnier and funnier!!

Senor Wooten has hilariously inflamed loads of pinkos today effortlessly with some well chosen and well deserved words of excoriation that they simply cannot actually process because it clashes with their worthless leftist Bush hate programming.

Please keep the bleating coming lefties - it sure is fabulous free entertainment!!

By CBF

September 20, 2006 01:12 PM | Link to this

Hey “inbred inertia” - the “bomb bomb Iran” song came out on the radio during the hostage crisis - you don’t happen to have a copy of that record, do ya’?

By time for the truth

September 20, 2006 01:12 PM | Link to this

Dana - I was clearly talking about the more obviously “silent” lefties - 2 of the worst examples I specifically named. Clearly this doesn’t apply to you - but why be so defensive about it though? moron rod and stupid dick are another couple of lefties who wont answer questions that are criticial of lefties!

By Dana

September 20, 2006 01:20 PM | Link to this

TFTT - I actually have time today, and I’m dissappointed there isn’t a better topic. As well thought out as many of your posts are, it irritates me when you are so broad and inclusive with your points. But, that is who you are and even though I would love to change your mind about things, I realize that isn’t going to happen.

By Curious Observer

September 20, 2006 01:31 PM | Link to this

Don’t get your hopes up about Wooten. He’s the token right-winger at AJC, tolerated by management only because he brings neocons to the readership. In a few months, he’ll be retired and join Zig-Zag Zell in a mountain cabin, raving about the Democrats and threatening newscasters who inquire about his crazed ramblings.

By getalife

September 20, 2006 01:33 PM | Link to this

Please stop the gop from stealing Social Security too

By Chazman

September 20, 2006 01:36 PM | Link to this

“mostly the far left on here on never ever debate - they either just parrot hate Bush cliches or post varying levels of abuse aimed at some conservatives on here” ——- Let’s see, who usually spends her days on here parroting hate cliches toward liberals? Who usually spends her days posting varying levels of abuse aimed at some (or all) liberals on here? I wonder who that could be? Guess who!!

By time for the truth

September 20, 2006 01:38 PM | Link to this

one right winger is infinitely better and vastly more effective than a thousand vile lefties though!!

By jbmlaw

September 20, 2006 01:43 PM | Link to this

Good afternoon all. Curious @ 10:01, brilliant essay; I wish I had written your words. R Cagle @ 11:12, you have a close second – great insight. My friend TFTT also posted a similar, somewhat more pointed, argument at 11:18. You guys who criticize TFTT ought to re-read the 11:18 argument – great substance. LB @ 11:51 is the funniest one on our side today.

Dana @ 11:54, you write the best opposing view today, but I still disagree. “Waking up in the morning American does not make us right, better, more moral or more intelligent,” is half true, but only when we speak of leftists. Those who favor freedom have a strong claim to moral superiority, as well as being more intelligent and probably better looking. I disagree with your assertion of absence of positive leadership; Bush is as positive of the virtues of freedom as was Reagan. Not exactly Morning in America, but perhaps a pre-dawn aurora. Now if you want negative, let’s look at the other side (and I do not ignore your well-balanced criticism.)

Van @ 12:03, that was a trick question – we know nobody with a brain, i.e., a conservative, would ever host anything for the terrorist organization we call the UN.

CJ @ 12:09: (1) Iran is a bigger threat than NK. While North Korea is ruled by a megalomanic who is also clinically insane, Iran has the same feature plus a leader with an apocalyptic death wish. Big difference, thus NK is not a threat, except to San Francisco, which nobody would miss anyway. On the number of US nukes, that is by any measure a sunk expense – there is no advantage to destruction, and there is a cost; don’t waste the money destroying them, since they pose no threat to us anyway. Your essay suggests you admire the 9/11 commission; Jamie would be pleased that her deception was successful. Never heard of, and don’t particularly care about the Nunn-Lugar campaign to spend more taxpayer money. I’m not much of a fan of spending on the homeland security bureaucracy under any circumstance, so it is hard for me to get excited about comparative allocations. We don’t want the government screwing up the economy by compelling an uneconomic energy policy – every time you leftists fool with gasoline, you cause higher prices and gas lines; a better idea would be to simply prohibit leftists from driving. Your desire to steal individual freedom by creating an Army of slaves is noted, but is generally, and intelligently, rejected by the American public, for a multiplicity of reasons. And to your touchy-feely note on communication and cooperation, I observe the US leads on Iraq, and follows your program on Iran and North Korea; which of those, in your estimation, is most on track for a favorable resolution? Your most accurate observation was your final line.

By Dana

September 20, 2006 01:45 PM | Link to this

LMFAO! Oh TFTT! More effective at WHAT? Obfuscating? Hating? Being arrogant and self righteous?

mmm - come on… you can do much better than that!!!

Maybe you should give your compatriots a call, it’s looking like you were abandoned in here today, you are virtually surrounded by leftists!!!! (and one slightly left of center)

By getalife

September 20, 2006 01:46 PM | Link to this

Thanks again “lies”.

one right winger is infinitely better and vastly more effective than a thousand vile lefties though!!

Yes, lets vote that way!

Thanks again for your support!

By time for the truth

September 20, 2006 01:48 PM | Link to this

Crapman bites again … wonderfully!!

Bravo for that fiendishly clever use of “her” again!!

By MELO

September 20, 2006 01:51 PM | Link to this

‘clearly you’re an illegal otherwise you would deny it in case one of us on here is an ICE undercover agent!!’ TIME FOR THE TRUTH

If it excites ur ego, OK i AM ILLEGAL,COME GET ME

By JK

September 20, 2006 01:52 PM | Link to this

I have a question: If the UN is so beneath us and unworthy of our support or participation, then why do “conservatives” use “Violating UN resolutions” as an excuse (among many, still evolving excuses) for the US to invade Iraq (without the support of the UN?) Just curious.

By time for the truth

September 20, 2006 01:55 PM | Link to thi