A Bitter Pill To Swallow

Barack Obama's poor choice of words at a San Francisco fundraiser has sparked the hopes of the Clinton campaign and piqued the interest of pundit and voter alike. Describing small town frustrations with a lackluster economy as bitterness, Barack Obama also suggested that gun culture and anti-immigrant sentiment are an outgrowth of those feelings.

Hillary Clinton was quick to jump on Obama's words, calling the remarks elitist and condescending, and arguing that small town voters in Pennsylvania were optimistic, not bitter. John McCain also saw an opening, suggesting that Barack Obama was clearly out of touch. Despite the story breaking on a Friday evening, opinion makers in the blogosphere, on cable news, and on the Sunday shows had reactions ranging from dismissive to outrage, with some suggesting that the comments might be Obama's very own "Macaca" moment.

Much of this talk seems quite overblown. It is, first of all, not elitist for a candidate for president to talk about the frustrations and anger that small town Americans have increasingly felt over the past eight years. It is, of course, not elitist for candidates to talk about jobs and trade in Ohio and Pennsylvania, but talk about ethanol and tax breaks while in Iowa and New Hampshire. Presidential campaigns are almost entirely about presidential candidates talking to -- and about -- the vastly different populations and cultures that make up this country.

More importantly, voters in small towns all across the Midwest have watched their jobs shipped overseas and their health care premiums skyrocket, all because of poorly crafted trade agreements and a government unwilling to confront the health care crisis. Those who still have jobs are finding their wages driven down and their mortgage rates skyrocketing, all because of a government that refused to regulate predatory lenders. Small town Americans have been beaten down by this economy and this administration. They deserve to be angry and cynical, frustrated and embittered.

Nevertheless, Obama's choice of words was poor, as has been acknowledged by the Senator himself. To this point, however, Obama appears ready to weather the storm for a number of reasons, not the least of which includes the continued ineptitude of the Clinton campaign. Already, Hillary Clinton has gone too far with her criticism of Obama, and is beginning to frame the issue in a way she might actually lose. By suggesting that Obama is out-of-touch at the same time that she insists that people are optimistic, not bitter, she is putting herself at great risk. After all, countless Pennsylvanians are in fact quite embittered at being abandoned by their government and will likely be unreceptive to the notion that they don't deserve to be. Hillary might be in touch with some, but it seems likely that Obama is in touch with far more.

It is also wise to avoid being too ironic when attacking an opponent. Throughout the weekend, Hillary has taken to talking about guns and drinking the occasional shot of whiskey, making sure to reminisce about learning to shoot and her fondness of hunting. Could there be anything more incredulous and condescending?

What is also particularly disturbing about Hillary's line of attack is the extent to which it seems to help no one other than John McCain. The Clinton campaign has all but admitted that the race, at this point, depends on convincing superdelegates that Hillary is more electable. But making Obama less electable will not make Hillary more. For superdelegates to overturn the pledged delegate count, Hillary will need more than just a preponderance of the evidence; she'll need to prove her superior electability beyond all reasonable doubt.

It also would seem that, for a number of reasons, the "bitter" controversy will do little to help John McCain. The Republican machine has already geared up to run a campaign that suggests that Obama is another Northeast educated elitist who can't connect with voters. To that end, Obama hasn't provided them with any new ideas. There is also no video of the comments and the only audio is too poor of quality to be used in an ad. Like Hillary, McCain may also find himself in a disadvantageous position when debating about which candidate is more in touch with the voters. Let us not forget that it is John McCain who shares a different view than the majority of Americans on nearly every issue. It is John McCain who seems to have only a passing understanding of the economic crisis and its impact on working class Americans.

The next few news cycles will be dominated by Obama's remarks which, by any measure, is a loss for the campaign. But timing continues to be uncannily fortunate for Obama. When seated next to each other at Wednesday's debate, Obama and Clinton will surely have to confront the issue. It will be understandably difficult for Clinton to call Obama a condescending elitist while face to face, and will also provide Obama with a chance to attack Clinton from a defensive position, a skill at which he has proven masterfully adept. His campaign will likely use the debate as an opportunity to shut down this narrative, at least for now.

Ultimately, we all have reasons to be embittered, having seen our government hijacked by those who seem entirely divorced from our aspirations. Small towns are occupied by some of those who deserve to be most frustrated of all. Barack Obama recognizes that our bitterness is not cured by ignoring it or dismissing it. It is cured by talking about it -- and working to replace it with hope.

Comments

[AjicNYC]

SO which is it Obama!!!! Did you got to church fro 20 years??? or were you not really there???lol

He will say what he needs to to get elected when asked about the wright issue he paints a picture of not going to church too often

and now he is a devote christian who is close to his pastor

[todayslies]

"SO which is it Obama!!!! Did you got to church fro 20 years??? or were you not really there???lol"

Actually, it's more like which is it, AjicNYC? You guys have blasted him for being a member of Trinity for 20 years--now you're going to claim he's not even religious? Ridiculous, obvious, and a loser move.

[Buj]

Just shows how desperate these Clintomaniacs are. First they say he's 'just words", that his words have no substance. Now they say his words means a whole lot. ?????

[PTTY]

Chelsea Clinton explains how she survived Tuzla. Hillary now has her daughter lying for her. Shame on Hillary and Bill

http://youtube.com/watch?v=GEB2P8DNE08

We hope the rumor is true. Pastor Wright, his Church and his Church Members are going to file a Defamation of Character, Malice, Slander, Libel, Deception, Distortion Law Suit against the Networks, Pundits, Host and network Attorneys for not doing due diligence. In regard to airing those deception Sermons.

Go to YOUTUBE.com to see the complete Sermons of Pastor Wright. Instead you guys in the Media continue to show the Deceptive 15-30 second DISTORTED CLIPS OF HIS Sermons.

Tell the Whole Story FOX! Pastor Wright

http://uk.youtube.com/user/TRINITYCHGO

P1-What FOX doesn't want you to know about Jeremiah Wright

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cdfbWSJINhg

Sam Stein>> Meet The (White) Man Who Inspired Wright's Controversial Sermon

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/politics/

[gopindrag]

"A devote christian,?" Is that like a devout christian? Too lame.

[Fabienne]

His pastor is a devout Christian who has done productive work in his community for many years, not to mention that he served his country in the armed services. Why do I think he is probably a much better citizen than you?

[DaveS7]

Another case of the pot calling the kettle black...

Fact: McCain and Clinton have lobbyists in their campaigns and have earned millions directly related to lobbying efforts. Obama has none. When you elect someone who owes corporate favors, they will do those favors, even at the expense of their constituents. Clinton and McCain are part of the "American Elite," the 1% who own more than 25% of America just like the "robber barons" of the 1920's who lead us into the great depression. "Those who do not learn from history are doomed to repeat it."

Obama has always worked to help the American people and is willing to fight against the establishment for the sake of this great nation.

Corporations tell American's what to eat, what drugs to take, and what you need in life to succeed. Corporations got rich and powerful and Americans got a lot of crap they never use, the largest proportion of obese people in the world, and the most expensive health care system in the world yet excludes 45+ million people while corporate profits rise.

Why would you support someone who works for the corporations if you want change?

Our democracy has been jeopardized by political catering to the military industrial complex and big corporations. Keeping them in power will only add to the problems of America. We must work together to make a better future, where our children, our health and our quality of life are more important than corporate profits.

[BeReasonable1]

"Obama has always worked to help the American people and is willing to fight against the establishment for the sake of this great nation."

I respect your right to support the candidate of your choice, but let's not go over-the-top
here. Obama's experience amounts to little more then being a social activist in Chicago.
Not hardly the credentials needed to be the leader of the free world. I know many at the Huffington Post will disagree, but Clinton is the best bet in this race. One last thing, His remarks
were simply marginalizing the average American, about 90% of the population. Making them appear desperate and without the ability to bring things into perspective. I don't know about you, but I would prefer if Obama did not try to pretend he feels my pain. Please folks, none of them are "in-touch" with you. They went to the best colleges, live in
incredible homes, and have dinner with America’s most elite. The best we can hope for are trade deals and banking regulations that do not destroy the avearge working person. Otherwise Obama will think we will be forced to turn to guns, or seek religion, or perhaps become racist. Please people rethink Obama.

[RRonin]

I am sick of the way in which politicians of all parties feel obligated to constantly massage the tender fragile egos of the American people. Had this mindset ruled in 1932, Franklin Roosevelts advisers would have warned him to drop the "one third of a nation ill-housed, ill-clothe­d..." phrase because it was such a downer. It reminds of of children's "sports" where everybody is declared a winner and gets a trophy. Message to ALL candidates: we are NOT little children and we CAN handle the truth!

[AnninCA]

Good. Here's the truth. Obama thinks you're miserable in life and that's the reason your racist, hate immigrants, demand to keep your guns, and YOUR religion is a crutch.

Not his, of course. He's different. He's got a million dollar income.

When you get a job, then you'll become nicer. LOL*

THAT is the truth of what he said.

Like it?

[NorVaGal]

Hi, Ann. Me again. There you go, again-- another RACIST rant against Sen. Obama. Wow, you just keep on proving my point. You can't make it through one single posting without accusing Obama of racism. And, yet, YOU are the one who is fixated on race. I say again, YOUR OWN RACISM shines forth bright and clear.

[chlllfactor]

I watched the forum this evening and then went one the ABC News blog. Never, again. The hatemongers on that site are unbelievable! They do not debate or speak intelligently - they spew hate and induendos. If words could kill, Senaor Obama would be dead.

Good old Hillary had to bring the 'bitter' non-story up, again. This was supposed to be a forum on compassion and religion, not politics - good old CNN defended her to the inth degree. One panelist, however, did note that Senator Obama was much more comfortable in this setting then Hillary was. Guess she it is difficult to be comfortable with God when she lies so much.

[deejsmom]

well, the rabid dogs have to have somewhere to go, and it seems that ABC does not monitor their boards, because they are like sharks in a frenzy over there.... went a couple of weeks back when the Bosnia flap was still going - it was horrible and not just from Clinton supporters - the Obama supporters were just as vicious. I blame ABC for allowing people to write such garbage without putting them in check.

[johntal]

How bitter can McCain be (son of an Admiral, grandson of an Admiral .
[ military royalty if if want to think about it ] and the Clintons ;making millions off the relaxed rules , understand Obamas' point about average people ? Elitist indeed .

[Georgy]

The problem with Obama's comment is not that the blue-collar, small town people are bitter. Yes, we are bitter and angry. The problem is what he said after. He made a generalized, racist statement. Calling whites gun-toting, racists and bigots who hide in religion. That is what is offensive!!! It shows his real views of whites. It shows HIS racial bias. Yes, he said the truth about whites being bitter. He's right about being ignored by government, but he is dead WRONG on the way we vent our frustration.

[SLone08]

So you don't think that people turn to their faith in times of economic hardship?

[JAsonMA]

lol trust me, im African, Africans LOVE Jesus!

[deejsmom]

I do, all the time when things are crappy - call on God... too bad I don't call on Him as much when things are going great. Shame on me! 8-(

[grendl]

"Calling whites gun toting racists"?

He made no mention of color, but if you want to inject race into this, and misquote him I suppose that's your prerogative. And he never said they hide in their religion either.

Why would he run on a platform of whites being bitter? That's preposterous. He's talking about the have nots, comprising white black, latino, and every other ethnicity in this country who have seen their economic fortunes dwindle or eradicated by this governments trade policies.

He's talking about the have nots, not whites. Try and get better informed about things.

[2008andbeyond]

He didn't say gun toting, racist or bigot at any point in his answer. Are you a troll or someone who is overly sensitive and thus reads into things what is not there. He's actually standing up for you, talking about you to people who historically don't care that you exist, instead of talking at you as politicians as Hillary do every four years.

[Herrington]

You, Georgy, have made the clearest and most precise objection I have heard in these some 10,000 comments on this and the other postings on this subject. You are someone speaking from the unvarnished sensibilities that took offense. Thank you.

But if you are not as you seem to think Obama describes you, then what are you? Do you vote for your own economic self interest or do you vote on gun rights, abortion or gay marrige issues?

That is what this election is about. Obama could not give a damn about your personal choices. He wants people to look past their private belief systems and support the goals that we have in common, rather than argue about our differences. And he scares the shit out of the people who have been making your life, and millions others, miserable.

[CTtransplant]

He did NOT call whites gun-toting, racists etc. Georgy, go back and actually READ what was said!

[douglaswylie]

".... they cling to guns or religion or antipathy toward people who aren't like them or anti-immigrant sentiment or anti-trade sentiment as a way to explain their frustratio­ns."

It's not the word "bitter" that's making trouble for Obama, it's the words that came afterwards.

His other problem is that he shared this amateur psychobabble about blue collar voters with an audience of wealthy, San Francisco liberals, behind closed doors, where he thought others wouldn't hear it.

In the general election, the above quotation will look great on billboards and 10-second tv spots funded by 527s.

[2008andbeyond]

Fund raiser was held in Marin County, not S.F. Being hung up on the city shows that you have fallen vicim to the GOP talking points about "liberal" & "elite" and thus are prone to fear voting.

[douglaswylie]

I eagerly await the reeducation camps to cleanse me of my "fear voting" tendencies. And if I graduate them believing that Marin County is less liberal and elite than San Francisco, they will be very good, indeed.

[mcgreen]

actually the meeting included some of his more blue collar support team, one who asked him what they would face doing work door to door in pa. he went on to describe the important issues for these voters.

[burnt]

Clintons! Please return the $800,000 Cloumbia bribe... and I will feel less bitter...

American jobs are worth more than your political ambitions.

born in PA

[Javalation]

There are people in big cities who are frustrated and bitter about where our country is going, and it is the wealthy elitist like McCain and the Clintons who are oblivious to this pain. Shame on them.

[Gibbons]

It is not incredulous to think that Hillary may have gone duck hunting when a child with her father. I have been a hunter most of my life and have known a few lady hunters in my life. I saw one in Maine who was using a standard poodle which had been trained as a bird dog and very well trained i might say they were hunting what the Maine folks call "Pattidge" (ruffed grouse). If the latte crowd who are usually against hunting are thrilled at seeing a deer in the wild they should thank a hunter or fisherman who asked for a excise tax on all hunting and fishing equipment this self imposed tax was passed and has bought millions of acres of habitat. In Missouri where I grew up the deer herd in Missouri was estimated to be less than 50 deer. The annual deer kill this year by those same hunters is in the thousands. If you think hunters are cruel yuu should see how mother nature takes care f thinning the herd. So good for Hillary if she went duck hunting as a child. Maybe we should have a shootout between Clinton and Obama let her bring her duck gun and Obama can bring whatever his weapon of choice happens to be. For many years the segment of society with the smallest population of prison sentences has been hunters and fishermen.

[chlllfactor]

I also went hunting with my father from the time I was about 10. My father had no sons and as the oldest of his daugthers, I was his hunting companion. Partridge and deer were our main goals, but more then anything, I treasured the time my father and I had together.
Now, maybe Hillary did go hunting, maybe not. One can never tell if her 'stories' are on the level or not. My belief is it is just that - a story - to garner votes from the sportsmen.

[AnChicago]

At least two of my most respected "elite" Obama supporting colleagues (college professors--chairs of departments) are hunters. One grew up in MO, as did my grandfather. Serious hunters are very concerned about the environment and committed to preserving natural habitats--through those same excise taxes and in other ways. I used to be anti-hunting. I am no longer.

It might also be nice to bring back some of the natural predators to these places, too. (besides humans).

[yaelbelle]

Let's be clear here.
OBAMA says "[SMALL-TOWN AMERICANS] get bitter, they cling to guns or religion or antipathy to people who aren't like them or anti-immigrant sentiment or anti-trade sentiment as a way to explain their frustrations,"

First substitute BUSH, MCCAIN or CLINTON for OBAMA.

Next substitute "BLACK AMERICANS," or "JEWISH AMERICANS" or "WOMEN" for "SMALL-TOWN AMERICANS.­"

Finally, defend it as non-prejudicial. -As not bourgeoisie condescension observing the opiates of the masses. -And the opiates he ascribes them: Guns, Religion, Hate, Fear.

This ideology is dangerous and problematic.

This is harmful to the Democratic Party.

This is helpful to the Republican Party.

Anyone who turns a blind eye to this perpetuates the harm. I mean, what would the reaction be if Bush said "Black Americans cling to guns, religion..­."

[Ork]

You conviently missed the first word of the sentense Obama said.. it was "So".. which was a counter to his earlier argument about how the bush and clinton adminstrations have let down the rural people of PA, which as a consequence have them clinging onto...

Have little respect for what people really say, else one day this twisting of words will come bite when/where it hurts the most!

[Shantee]

This game of semantics is a waste of time and dangerous.­...we should be focusing on the issues, that we as democrats, have in common, like ending the war in Iraq, fuel costs, the economy. As a woman who grew up in NYC I'm not going to pretend I understand hunting because I don't. I'm not against it, but I am against the easy accessability of guns by lunatics and irresponsible people who have no business owning a gun....is there something wrong with that?

[jmpurser]

How exactly was it a "poor choice of words"?

[grendl]

I think his comments couldn't come at a more opportune time.

Because this country is angry. Eight years of tyranny will do that to you. And his phrasing was perfect.

Hillary once again the "Triangulator" has come after him again, sniffing out potential vulnerability on what was best left unaddressed, the fact that he spoke the absolute truth. And she's tried to take the hope high ground away from his campaign, ( mocking it only a few months ago, now she's Maria in Sound of Music ) The Hill is Alive with the sound of muuuuuusic­....

It's not going to work. Because you could replace small town , with ghetto in his statement, and it would still apply. Is there bitterness in our inner city ghettos Ms. Clinton? Or are those " hope" drive bys.

Ridiculous. People in times of hardship, and disenfranchisement, and a lack of centralized government effort in their plight turn to god and guns, and yes sometimes frustration with foreign nations who gladly take the jobs corporations offer them. If you're not willing to acknowledge that, how can you deal with a nation like Iraq, the poster child for Obama's words.

You see bitterness there, don't you Hillary? Road side bombs? They're mad at a government that doesn't represent them. Harbours aren't made into teapots borne solely of optimism, Bastilles aren't stormed and people can't be fooled into thinking their rage is simply hope. Jedi mind trick that that was, it didn't work. We're not stupid.

[ToddD]

What an Amazing comment...­.Only problem is that I'm bitter, so I'm not so sure that we are not stupid.

[Rule Of Law]

Wasn't Hillary also a part of the Navy Seal team that rescued John McCain from the Vietnamese prison camp?