Lipstick and the politics of distraction

Justine Vernon, Fall Creek, Wisconsin — Wed, 10 Sep 2008 22:00:42 GMT

Thank you Chris for tonight's show . . .. you were pushing people to answer your questions about the ridiculousness of this "pig" thing . . and when they don't, it speaks so loudly for who and what those people are. I would give anything to know what us private citizens can do to bring these candidates and their people front and center with the very important issues that are out there, rather than all this utter nonsense.
But thanks for trying . . ..

Lipstick and the politics of distraction

alan lovitt — Wed, 10 Sep 2008 22:01:53 GMT

Chris,
While i agree that this lipstick comment is all dribble, its obvious what he meant why else would that statement have gotten a standing ovation.that crowd knew exactly what he meant

Lipstick and the politics of distraction

Sven Wiberg, Portsmouth, NH — Wed, 10 Sep 2008 22:06:46 GMT

Cmon Chris - get with it. You need to push back. This is a classic and transparent Rovian tactic. By getting pundits like you to treat an absurd proposition with something like respect and "balance," the Rove disciples get the effect they want. Pure street magic - misdirection, and suddenly the crowd is no longer looking where they should. And how about their choice for a messenger? Jane Swift (Freudian slip there - Swift swiftboating), the former unelected Gov. of Massachusetts who got caught doing the same things that Palin is accused of doing. Only Swift's "troopergate" was rolled together with her misuse of state resources. Look it up!

Lipstick and the politics of distraction

Betsy Nelson, Murrysville, Pennsylvania — Wed, 10 Sep 2008 22:09:24 GMT

The media needs to stop making such a big deal about the "lipstick jungle" and false accusations made by supporters of the McCain campaign. Instead the media needs to ignore these pointless distractions and focus on the issues. Every reporter is responsible for providing the hard facts and holding each campaign directly responsible for any lie or mistaken comment.

Lipstick and the politics of distraction

Connie James Palm Desert, CA — Wed, 10 Sep 2008 22:15:40 GMT

Please enough about the lipstick..The family that can't feed their family is not interested...Where are the issues to help..Pahlin brought any attacks on herself as she continues to lie...Mc Cain uses the phrase himself..SO WHAT!!! The PIT BULL he has choosen for VP better be kept on a short leash!

Lipstick and the politics of distraction

Alice Romo Coppell, Texas — Wed, 10 Sep 2008 22:15:59 GMT

Chris Matthews, On your program today, you said, We are distracted with this "lipstick issue". YOU are distracted, believe me, we the viewing public don't care about this so-called lipstick remark all that much. We DO care about the economy, the Bush war, high prices for gas, groceries, the future, and a lot of other important issues that Barak Obama has been talking about. The fact that Carl Rove has succeeded in getting you (the press) to focus on this lipstick baloney or whatever else he comes up with tomorrow, you should be able to see that these distractions are just how fellows like him thrive on, but that is not what this nation needs to be informed about at this time. It is your responsibility to focus on what is really IMPORTANT to us, and not waste our time and yours being led by the nose like you have been recently. I like watching you, but if you continue in this vein, I will have to switch to something else. Thanks.

Lipstick and the politics of distraction

Wed, 10 Sep 2008 22:21:02 GMT

Chris, How do you know that O'bama knew what he was saying would get exactly the reaction it did. He did it to get the R to play into his kind of politics. He did it to Hillary and now he will do it to Palin. Throw out the term and then deny it meant anything and then let the opposition do your work for you....

Lipstick and the politics of distraction

Sherry Smith, Hubbard, Oregon — Wed, 10 Sep 2008 22:25:17 GMT

Chris,
I think you are a disgrace to the media. You have a show where you invite representatives from both campaigns to comment on issues, yet you play the democratic role for Ms. Backus pounding Mr. Feehery regarding the lipstick comment by Obama. You won't even let Mr. Feehery speak, you consistently interrupted him and then moved on to Ms. Backus. At least let the man speak! Chris, it's rude to behave this way on your show. Please don't invite republican strategists and McCain campaign people onto your show if you're not going to give them the time of day. It's very clear to your viewers that you are extremely liberal, but you go too far. Tom Browkaw said the same thing about you and your beloved, crazy, liberal freak friend Olbermann. No wonder NBC fired you from hosting live political events.

Lipstick and the politics of distraction

Kathleen Ferguson, San Diego, CA — Wed, 10 Sep 2008 22:27:24 GMT

Thank you Chris for todays show. I think this was the best Hardball I have ever seen. You truely played Hardball with this lipstick on a pig thing, and your comment at the end of your show was very good. Today you were of service to your country and we appreciate it. Thank you.

Lipstick and the politics of distraction

Shawn, Bloomington, IL — Wed, 10 Sep 2008 22:28:05 GMT

Hey Chris can you play this speech by Michael Douglas from the American President
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=44R5BapEdYY
on your show and ask your panel why Obama can't respond to McCain in the same way? I think that this speech pin points exactly what the Obama Campaign lacks.
Even if you do not air this speech or Chris never reads this post, I would be humbled with any response in an e-mail format to my address at shawnhdavis@gmail.com

Lipstick and the politics of distraction

Hildy Montaigne — Wed, 10 Sep 2008 22:34:34 GMT

Chris,
Your show tonight was so refreshing. Thank you. I just called my daughter, a senior in college, to give her a recap of the lipstick nonsense with some appreciative emphasis on your handling of the matter.

Before I could finish the story, my daughter responded with "That is so silly. That's a common phrase. There are important things these people should be talking about."

As I am just a little younger than you are, I thought you might enjoy hearing that tonight you hit it out of the park. Young Americans do care. They care about issues and about honesty. Well done!

Hildy

Lipstick and the politics of distraction

Angela Norton, Hillsborough, CA — Wed, 10 Sep 2008 22:36:15 GMT

Why aren't you reporting on Sarah Palin's upcoming trip to rake in big money at the 9/25 luncheon at Tom Siebel's Woodside estate? Doesn't it go against her folksy, small-town, blue-collar personna to hob-nob with the sophisticated elite Silicon Valley intelligentsia? What would the gymnasium crowd/whistle stopping swing state voters say to $50,000 for lunch & 3 pics with Sarah? I say it smacks of hypocrisy when she seems so derisive about Obama in big, bad liberal San Francisco.

Lipstick and the politics of distraction

Alicia, Orlando, Florida — Wed, 10 Sep 2008 22:37:17 GMT

Thank you, thank you, thank you!! Thank you for Hardball today on "Lipstick" Politics. I wish the whole nation watched this episode. This whole lipstick acquisition is asinine. In a way, I'm glad that McCain put up this ad that is so blatantly taken out of context of both Obama and Katie Couric. It just shows how desperate McCain is to manipulate the American people into voting for him through distractions. I just hope that American voters are not blinded by his "shiny object" called Sarah Palin and all of her falsehood. Thank you Chris for everything you do!

Lipstick and the politics of distraction

Jan Eller, Wasilla, AK — Wed, 10 Sep 2008 22:39:02 GMT

Happen to be, or know one of those people that can't deliver a punchline? That would be Obama. I wouldn't have thought much about it except when I saw him make the comment and his body language screamed uh-oh; the hand to the forehead, the appearance of hesitation, the "tell", that he knew he was dipping a toe in hot water.
As they say in politics, "perception is reality". He knew the double entendre value and risked it. Time to get out of the pig pen and drop the silliness he allegedly dislikes.
"Catnip to the media"? You guys can't get enough.

Lipstick and the politics of distraction

Sherry Smith, Hubbard, Oregon — Wed, 10 Sep 2008 22:39:13 GMT

Funny how these comments that are approved by the MSNBC staff are all against McCain/Palin. It's unbelievable how biased the media is. Why did Obama use a line exclusively used by Republicans in the past if he wasn't aiming his statement at Palin? Don't you think it's a little close with regards to timing of the statement when Palin's speech was a week ago? Oh, but he wasn't referring to Palin at all, the crowd was just roaring like he was. It will be interesting to see how the media covers Obama's attack of McCain that he's racist. They claim swiftboating against the Rupublicans, but it seems to me that Obama is jumping in head first with swiftboating and SMEAR tactics!

Lipstick and the politics of distraction

Ralph Peoria, Il. — Wed, 10 Sep 2008 22:41:00 GMT

Thanks Chris,
Statistics say that John McCain will not live to serve a term in office. I want a president that has a stake in America's future and Barack Obama is that guy.
It's very sad that a person who has worked to help less fortunate people is looked down on by so many. Where is the "Moral Majority" now?
John McCain is a party puppet, and he will do anything to be elected.

Lipstick and the politics of distraction

Marlin NPB Florida — Wed, 10 Sep 2008 22:43:29 GMT

Chris,

You all fell for it! Please see that Mr. O has set up the Mccain camp and you guys. He is a talented speaker and knows how to speak and what happens when he does speak. Just think about it, does that sound like something he would normaly say? He is an elequent speaker and you all fell for his trap...just to stif up the mix and give a break news and now he is part of it. Give me a break....he is smart media guy....but he did not relize that women love lipstick.

Lipstick and the politics of distraction

Sherry Smith, Hubbard, Oregon — Wed, 10 Sep 2008 22:45:59 GMT

Chris,
I find it funny that there are absolutely NO comments in opposition of your show. Do you really think that everyone who watches is in agreement with you? Once again, only posting positive comments shows how liberal and biased NBC really is.

Lipstick and the politics of distraction

Anita, Los Angeles, CA — Wed, 10 Sep 2008 22:49:39 GMT

Chris, your show today was great! Thank you for your sound mind and wisdom. Please don't go away from MSNBC as it has been reported you may.

Lipstick and the politics of distraction

michael — Wed, 10 Sep 2008 22:52:03 GMT

its true its all in obamas body language and was about the 2 republican candidates just watch his body language and yes chris you can draw the conclusion if not go back to school lipstick pig is what im talking about

Lipstick and the politics of distraction

Mary Jean Wall Oppenheim, NY — Wed, 10 Sep 2008 22:54:42 GMT

Hi Chris, I am a 52 years old, fairly educated, and registered independent. The lipstick comment is getting blown out of proportion, I would just like to say this: Obama is obviously an intelligent man. I do not think he intentionally meant to imply that he was talking about Sarah Palin. He made a poor choice of words. However, he wants to be president of our country, he should be able to think before he speaks better than he did. So, I do fault him for that. I do believe that as he was saying it he realized the impication. I do believe many people believed that was what he was saying. I do fault him for that. I hope John McCain puts an end to this before the debat. Thanks for listening.

Mary Jean Wall
Oppenheim, NY

Lipstick and the politics of distraction

Lisa Wood — Wed, 10 Sep 2008 22:56:36 GMT

Thank God For Chris Matthews. If Tim Ressert were here he would be pushing back at this ridiculous spin along with you Chris.
Tonight I felt sense of relief that one impartial journalist saw through this GOP spin machine and kept asking the hard questions. Let's see if Charlie Gibson asks Palin even ONE hard question tomorrow....maybe he will ask her what she puts in her moose stew!! That information will help all of us in the upcoming year!!

Lipstick and the politics of distraction

Andy, Las Vegas, Nevada — Wed, 10 Sep 2008 23:02:08 GMT

Chris, you nailed it. The GOP & candidates are so afraid they are going to lose this election, they'll do ANYTHING. They are a disgrace to America by using this kind of distorted campagning solely for the sake of trying to win. The debates will change everything and the American people will see through the Republican candidates' false claims of change. For they are indeed intending to continue ALL basic policies of the Bush misadministration. McCain could change his name to John Bush-McCain, even though he doesn't support gay rights & same-sex marriage. 90% of the time, he's agreed with Bush and they have run this country into the ground with their personal agendas.
As Obama stated correctly, "If you like George Bush.....vote for McCain". The only thing John McCain will change....is adding an 8th house to his portfolio - IF he can find it.

Lipstick and the politics of distraction

Jane Hutchings, Bloomfield, IA — Thu, 11 Sep 2008 00:22:52 GMT

Finally--a media voice of the people--we don't care about--"lipstick"--we care about our country and what is happening to it.

Lipstick and the politics of distraction

Linda Diane Smith — Thu, 11 Sep 2008 00:31:54 GMT

I was pleased to watch Chris Matthews insist on the truth from the Republican pundit this evening. It is rare that an anchor or a pundit insists on clarity and accuracy from his interviewee or panel member. It was worth watching the heat when it resolved into light.
Linda

Lipstick and the politics of distraction

Debra R. Messick — Thu, 11 Sep 2008 00:33:11 GMT

Chris,
Thanks for the terrific show tonight. You Rock!!!! You kept asking the questions, you wouldn't let the b.s. stand. The woman named Jennifer who was on was also excellent--talking about issues--what a concept!!! Thank you for your courage and for fighting back against this very sad spectacle called a campaign coming from someone I formerly admired, Sen. John McCain. Considering that he was the victim of similar false smears and innuendo during the 2000 campaign, it is especially vile for him to be engaging in this type of thing with so many important issues going on. In a related matter, Gov. Palin certainly has no trouble dishing out disparaging, false remarks, yet she and those around her seem to be hypersensitive to any remark that is not positive.

Lipstick and the politics of distraction

M. Epstein, Los Angeles, CA — Thu, 11 Sep 2008 00:40:05 GMT

Bravo to you and the Hardball crew for today's segment! And my earnest thanks for showing up the rank deception and tactical obfuscation of the McCain/Palin Campaign. In the absence of genuine policy, authentic integrity, or even the most grudging respect for the concept of "Straight Talk", the McCain/Palin handlers continue to drill the depths for ever lower, ever more polluted message spin. At the same time, they wail and whine and self-righteously scream "Sexism" and "Smear Campaign" as FACTS about Sarah Palin's record continue to tumble out of the Tundra.

Well, I am a woman, too. And I've had some experience confronting genuine Sexism. I know the face of that particular "pig"all too well, with or without "lipstick". Beyond my disgust at seeing yet another insufferable effort to divert voters' attention from the real and deadly-serious issues of this campaign, I resent to my core the cynical misuse, the trivializing for political gain, of a real and deadly-serious issue of women's lives.

ENOUGH!

You did your jobs today.

You did us proud.

Lipstick and the politics of distraction

Cheryl Barnett, East Brunswick, NJ — Thu, 11 Sep 2008 00:41:13 GMT

I am writing this, as a concerned citizen, because the 2008 election must be decided on the issues – not on personalities. Unfortunately, in the last few weeks, I have heard no substantive discussions of the pressing decisions that will be facing our next president. Oh, I have heard plenty about lipstick, about bridges, and about teenage pregnancies but have heard no discussion about energy policy, about global warming, about citizens without health insurance and a litany of other important issues that are too numerous to mention.

The point of this is to force the Democrats and the Republicans back to what really matters – the serious issues that are confronting everyday Americans. How will we pay our heating bills this winter? How will we decide whether we can fill up our cars or buy new sneakers for our children? How will we reduce the threat of global terrorism?

John McCain’s campaign manager has stated that this election is not about the issues. I beg to differ – that is all that it is about. Perhaps he thinks average Americans are not smart enough to make an informed electoral decision. Perhaps he is afraid of the decision that will be made if issues were the only thing that determined the outcome. I honestly do not care what he thinks but I do care that the media is allowing him to dictate the dialogue.

We, as individuals, can affect change by demanding that the news organizations focus on what is most important. Thank you, Chris for attempting to do that tonight - hopefully more news organizations will do exactly that.

Lipstick and the politics of distraction

David Seiple, New York, NY — Thu, 11 Sep 2008 00:42:43 GMT

Great job exposing this crap. But it's not just the Republicans who are responsible for bringing this up. Why on earth is the media even giving this any air time? Yes, once it's out there, it has to be answered, and this is what Chris did. But collectively, the media is responsible for distracting us every bit as much as the Republicans. The media, collectively, responds to the Republican blather like guitar strings to a guitar plucker, and we're all plucked as a consequence.

Lipstick and the politics of distraction

Yvonne Helmer, Phoenix, AZ — Thu, 11 Sep 2008 00:47:46 GMT

Chris - We, as Americans, need your help in seeking the truth about the 2008 Presidential candidates. Faced with so many serious problems as a result of failed leadership over the last 7 years, most Americans are trying very hard to make the right decision with regards to picking the best candidate to lead this country. That is why I was so glad to see you "battling for the truth" and calling attention to a serious problem facing Americans - wrongful campaign ads which attempt to mislead the American people. If the Press would say "ENOUGH!!" to malicious and wrongful information no matter which party is doing it; that would be a very important and a very good thing for ALL Americans. I can choose to watch any TV program/News channel that I want, but I have come to expect and rely on you, especially during your "Hardball" TV program, to ask the tough questions and bring out the truth. THANK YOU for helping me seek the truth, so that I can make the right decision on behalf of and for the future of my 9 young grandchildren.

Lipstick and the politics of distraction

Tammy Cary North Carolina — Thu, 11 Sep 2008 00:48:43 GMT

chris
I can't express how awesome your show was tonight- I mean you really made us all proud to be Americans with your pointed questions removing the distractions to get down to what really matters to everyday citizens. Keep up the good work!

Lipstick and the politics of distraction

Cyann LA, CA — Thu, 11 Sep 2008 00:52:14 GMT

Chris, Those people who urge you to ignore the “lipstick” comments made by the McCain camp just don’t get it. I agree that we absolutely need both McCain and Obama to be challenged about their positions on the critical issues affecting the future of our country. That's what we all want to know. However, if candidates are not held accountable for false stories and feigned outrage, then they and their campaigns will continue this practice until it sucks up all the oxygen in the room leaving no breathing space for intelligent conversation. Calling it what it is… a distraction… will hopefully shorten the news cycle on this mindless piece of drivel.

Great great show!

Lipstick and the politics of distraction

Joe R., Southern Utah — Thu, 11 Sep 2008 00:54:29 GMT

Great show Chris. It's about time you called McCain and his supporters on the carpet. If the McCain wants to cry sexism about Obama's lipstick comment, maybe someone should rerun the clip when McCain snickered over a question asked him by a female member of the audience about Hillary Clinton being a bitch.

Lipstick and the politics of distraction

JILL RENO NV — Thu, 11 Sep 2008 01:16:05 GMT

Chris,
THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU, for tonights show. You gave the them a chance to uncle and they wouldn't.

It was so nice to see someone lay out the whole McCain distraction in one place.
Obama was right this morning this is how the GOP has run an election for the last 8 years.
Give me the old days where you could talk politics with issues not garbage.
THANK YOU AGAIN, keep calling them on these things whether democrat or republican.....

Sorry to hear hear you and Keith Oberman got kicked off the election night. I was really looking forward to the two of you. I like David Gregory but I really miss Tim Russet as I'm sure we all do.
KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK!!!!!

Lipstick and the politics of distraction

gg — Thu, 11 Sep 2008 11:03:39 GMT

Thank you for speaking out so forcefully on this issue. It's refreshing and even inspirational to hear someone in the media break free of the cynicism and relentless focus on trivia we've been seeing so much recently. John McCain should be ashamed of himself, the news media should be ashamed of its collective self, and we, the American public, should be covering our heads in disgrace if we allow this incredibly important election to be hijacked by this sleaze.

Lipstick and the politics of distraction

William Patrick Comstock; Belcamp, MD — Thu, 11 Sep 2008 12:02:19 GMT

Hello Chris; your commentary about this country and it's possible condition 20 years from now was right on the mark. If both parties do not start addressing the critical issues of the day, we will be in deep trouble. As the McCaine/Palin campaign manager has already pointed out, this campaign will be about personalities, not issues. Thinking individuals in our society do not care about lipstick; but how the war in Iraq has financially drained the society until your description of it in 20 years is very possible.

Lipstick and the politics of distraction

June — Thu, 11 Sep 2008 12:23:25 GMT

Has anyone seen the video with McCain saying the exact same thing about the pig in lipstick referring to Hillary Clinton?

Lipstick and the politics of distraction

Marie Blanks, Carrollton, Texas — Thu, 11 Sep 2008 12:39:30 GMT

I absolutely love the MSNBC Team.....I am sick of the Republican Party trashing the media about Sarah Palin. The Republican party is the one that put it out there regarding Mrs. Palin's daughter being pregnant. Mrs. Palin is no different than a lot of American family's that experience personal family matters. Now there is all this controversy regarding the pig and pink lipstick. She is being protected from the media what kind of foolishness is this? She is running for the Republican VP slot "QUIT" treating this woman like she is some body not to reckon with.....because she is wearing a skirt! Hilary was able to hit the floor running on day one she announced her desire to run for office. And she was not hidden from the press. Palin has been reading the same script for the last two weeks ENOUGH! This is all a joke to women and the American people. Putin will eat her alive... Media Friends weather you believe it or not you have bought into all this foolishness report and treat Mrs. Palin like she is a running for public office and cut the crap of stepping on her toes DO YOUR JOB AND GO AFTER HER! like you would any other public figure. ENOUGH with her family matters we have people loosing their jobs daily. Let's get to the issues. I love you Guys and Gals on the MSNBC Team! Born on 9/11.

Lipstick and the politics of distraction

Dee, Parkville, Maryland — Thu, 11 Sep 2008 12:40:43 GMT

Chris-

Thank you for tonight's show. Exposing the hypocricy of the Lipstick statement was brilliant. I debated this issue on a talk forum yesterday and was astounded by reactions.

I researched the phrase when the controversy first arose and I found that it is indeed a commonly used phrase. It's commonly used just as Obama used it.

What I really find amazing is that Republicans minus well not use it because Palin "mentioned" lipstick in her convention speech. So what? If she were a man would they be saying the same thing? So who really is playing the gender card?

They are also making reference to the audience applauding and clapping. Uh, isn't that what audiences are suppose to do? This is a campaign is it not? They applaud when they believe in what you stand for and what you are saying.

I think Republicans should look in the mirror before opening their mouths. Watch McCain's video when he used the reference regarding Hillary's policies. Guess what? The audience applauded.

Lipstick and the politics of distraction

donna — Thu, 11 Sep 2008 13:12:34 GMT

Thanks, Mr. Matthews, for doing a show on the lipstick comment, and for making Mr. Feehery squirm in his chair. Now please do a show like this one to get to the truth (or untruths) about the McCaine ads stretching the truth on Obama sex education act and also on McCaine ad stating that Obama had 30 or so reporters dropped in Alaska to dig up dirt on Palin. I believe that most of this is crap, also. I love how you don't back down until you get a straight answer, no matter if you are talking to a representative of the democratic party or a representative of the republican party. Thank goodness for you!
donna

Lipstick and the politics of distraction

Deborah Davis — Thu, 11 Sep 2008 14:05:47 GMT

Chris, I agree with your comment, and the Republicans NEW position, that kids are off limits. But, I'd really like to hear you ask the McCain people why they thought it was funny, even better why McCain thought it was okay, when he made a joke about Chelsea Clinton's looks when she was a little girl and Bill Clinton was President. Just another example of their hypocrisy, and phony outrage. This is an old incident, but clearly shows his true character.

Lipstick and the politics of distraction

Carol Allison, Lake Zurich, IL — Thu, 11 Sep 2008 14:18:56 GMT

Chris,
I have disagreed with you many times in the past, but I have to wholeheartedly agree with your views on the lipstick distraction. There are too many important issues in this election to allow phoney outrage to distract voters from what is clearly at stake. Perhaps the McCain campaign feels that the large number of Americans who are suffering in this economy, our energy crisis, frightening climate change, high food prices,unaffordable healthcare, failing schools, endless war, and the growing divide between the haves and the have nots is just more "static and ground noise."
Thank you for questioning the Congreewoman from Oklahoma's fake indignation and for demanding specific examples of MSM attacks on Palin's family.
Throughout the campaign, the McCain camp has used his POW status as a wild card free pass to avoid answering tough questions about his voting record, flip-flops, and support of Bush/Cheney policies. Now his campaign has offered a new distraction. While McCain hides behind her skirts and grins, Palin is kept behind the podium to attack with unbridled sarcasm. Claiming lack of respect and deference for their candidate, for almost 2 weeks she has been shielded from unscripted, uncoached, uncontrolled interviews. In crying foul and sexism, they are denying voters unbiased, critical information about Sarah Palin. Voters don't care about her family issues, the kids and the "First Dude," but voters deserve to know about a candidate's basic beliefs, policies, and leadership before they cast their votes. Once Palin accepted the responsiblity of her place on the ticket, she accepted the obligation to reveal herself and her full record to the American people. That is true service, patriotism, honor, integrity and America First.
Enough!

Lipstick and the politics of distraction

Sara Gann, Arlington, VA — Thu, 11 Sep 2008 14:19:25 GMT

Chris: Many thanks to you for some real journalism! Your questioning of the Republican guy was right on the money. I'm surprised that Katie Couric hasn't raised holy hell about the McCain campaign's use of footage of her.

McCain is ultimately culpable for this ad. It's his money and his campaign--the buck stops with him.

Lipstick and the politics of distraction

Kat, St. Paul, MN — Thu, 11 Sep 2008 14:28:59 GMT

Chris,
you have gained my utmost respect after last night's exposee of a typical Karl Rove/Richard Addington stunt. Talk about a Tempest in a Teabag! Thank you so much for taking it to 'em - although I wish you had someone other than the young woman to counter your pro-Grampy McSame's surregate. She was earnest but couldn't deliver the cool-handed arguments needed against these spin meisters.

Lipstick and the politics of distraction

Scott L Robertson — Thu, 11 Sep 2008 14:33:56 GMT

When has Obama used the "pig" adage previously? Taking the measure of the man requires that you observe HIS prior conduct, and comments. HIS reference was to Palin, and your indignation only reveals your bias, sorry.

Lipstick and the politics of distraction

Tony Branch, St. Petersburg, FL — Thu, 11 Sep 2008 14:41:47 GMT

What is so sad is that the American people once again are so dumbed down and American-Idolized that they hardly notice the economy seems to be collapsing around them and that our country has lost so much under the last eight years of Republican control. Instead, they fall to the Rove tactics of personal smear and a focus on personalities rather than issues.

Let's hope that young people do care enough to make certain they are registered--deadline is coming up in most states the first week of October. And that they actually vote. For those young people and others who do care and want to persuade others to vote for Obama and change, go to:

WWW.TWOVOTERS.COM

You can download some excellent profesionally done spot videos that you can e-mail to friends, colleagues, and familiy.

Lipstick and the politics of distraction

E. Miller, Nairobi — Thu, 11 Sep 2008 14:46:21 GMT

Truth. Honesty. That is what this discussion is about. If American can not trust our leaders to tell us the TRUTH - beginning with their campaign ads - we will continue on the slippery slope towards oblivion. TRUTH, JUSTICE - The American Way! Isn't that what my genreation learned form the old black and white Superman television shows? Truth telling perhaps should be one of the biggest issues of this campaign.

Lipstick and the politics of distraction

Pat Eblen, Leesburg, Va. — Thu, 11 Sep 2008 14:49:08 GMT

Anyone with half a brain knows the lipstick thing is a distraction and the sex ed ad is a flat-out lie. But one question remains: If you put lipstick on John McCain, would he still be a pig?

Lipstick and the politics of distraction

Sam New York City — Thu, 11 Sep 2008 14:52:00 GMT

Although I agree with most of the comments made about your last nites show, my comment is about this morning 9/11/08. Why in heck would MSNBC rerun the broadcast of that day reminding New Yorkers that they need to see the horror of that day. We REMEMBER ALL TO WELL. Why not just honor our dead, say a pray and comfort the ones like myself who live on with the hope that this will never happen again to our loved ones. Today my sorrow, anxiety, & feeling of despair are flooding back. Why, Why my God are they doing this????????

Lipstick and the politics of distraction

Scott L Robertson — Thu, 11 Sep 2008 14:53:38 GMT

The question should be, Chris, "when has Obama used the pig adgage previously?" If he hasn't, case closed. He called Sarah Palin a pig...AND John McCain a stinking fish. The human scale of Obama is disappointing, isnt't it?

Lipstick and the politics of distraction

Theo Ramakers, Social Circle, Georgia — Thu, 11 Sep 2008 14:55:15 GMT

Keep up the good work Chris!
I have been a republican since the mid seventies, and was very happy when McCain won the GOP primary earlier this year. However, in recent days I do not recognize the McCain I thought I knew. The blunt, incorrect attacks at his oponent and then the selection of a running mate of a governer whose experience is lower than another governer of which Carl Rove said was not qualified, made me change my mind. John McCain is right, he is changing.... himself..... from a maverick who I believe stood for the best of the country, to a team of Bush policy makers. Not only will I not vote republican but democrat this year, I also will change my party alliance to the democratic party.

Enough is enough!

Lipstick and the politics of distraction

Larry Thompson, Bedford, Ma. — Thu, 11 Sep 2008 15:13:06 GMT

Mr. Matthews-
Your commentary last night was especially poignant. The "moment" goes by so quickly but history lives on and remembers. Your call for dignity and serious purpose was non-partisan and a great service to us all. I hope the right folks were listening.

Lipstick and the politics of distraction

Adam, Atlanta GA — Thu, 11 Sep 2008 15:34:00 GMT

Great work Chris. We need to get back to the real issues. I'm glad someone has the guts to stand up to these people who don't care about anything else but winning an election.

Lipstick and the politics of distraction

Brenda Reynolds, Greenville, PA. — Thu, 11 Sep 2008 15:36:27 GMT

Thank you Chris Matthews!

I really appreciate you pointing out the absolute idiocity of this whole lipstick issue. First of all, Obama was clearly referring to McCain's policy preferences and not about Palin herself and secondly this points out why Obama is desperately needed for this country. Clearly, while John McCain and Sarah Palin spend their time trying to bash Obama, Obama is spending his time informing people why he is different then Bush and his chronies (including McCain) and won't be "putting lipstick on a pig" and try selling the same bs to the American people.

Lipstick and the politics of distraction

Donna Drew Sawyer, Bethesda, MD — Thu, 11 Sep 2008 15:46:31 GMT

Chris, you were right on target with your comments last night. We rely on the media – supposedly the watchdogs of our republic – to ferret out the lies and hidden agendas that got us into the mess we’re in now and threaten to keep us there in the future. Only yesterday did I see a glimmer of the responsible journalistic sentry in the appropriate public vetting of the republican vice presidential candidate. We need the media to do serious and responsible reporting on the county’s behalf – we do not want to be entertained by spectacles and agendas that are not related to the issues at hand - we need the media to keep us informed about the facts that really matter.

Sarah Palin is not running for president of the hockey team booster club or the PTA – she is on a national ticket as a candidate for Vice President of the United States. Her qualification as a hockey mom will be meaningless in the face of a world crisis. Lies – not half truths or some other euphuism – about her record and accomplishments further diminish our nation’s credibility at home and abroad. Her obvious lack of education, exposure and experience will provide no expertise, advice or counsel to a President. We really don’t know Sarah Palin and by keeping all of us at bay with fictitious homespun stories about her prowess as a seller on EBay and feigned righteous indignation on just about everything else, does not address her positions or knowledge of the profound issues that face this country. Please do not allow the republicans to obstruct our necessary critical examination of the candidates of both parties by reporting on minutia and ignore the significant issues that face us as a nation. Governance is VERY serious business and we should treat it as such. Let us all be less concerned about a pig in lipstick and very, very wary of buying a pig in a poke.

Lipstick and the politics of distraction

Diane, — Thu, 11 Sep 2008 16:03:31 GMT

Obama just can't seem to win. When he speaks from the heart, but using his brain, he's accused of talking down to people, being an elitist. When he tries to be folksy, they accuse him of being sexist.

Lipstick and the politics of distraction

Noanie, South Pasadena, CA — Thu, 11 Sep 2008 16:20:16 GMT

Chris,

The press has a responsibility to stick to the issues and not be so easily manipulated by the RNC to spread their smear propaganda. Please, we, the voters, want reporting on the ISSUES, not this nonsense lipstick crap. It's NOT news and doesn't serve to inform voters on the real and pressing issues. We have only 50 or so days left so please don't waste another show on this nonsense.

I'm upset that you and Keith aren't covering election night.

Lipstick and the politics of distraction

Ms. Democrat — Thu, 11 Sep 2008 16:21:30 GMT

Way to go Chris!!!!
God Blless! Please keep doing what you always have!
Leave the dramatics to Keath! What we need is the
you that looks beyond the spin traps and lets us know what the real facts are!!!!!

Lipstick and the politics of distraction

Ms. Democrat — Thu, 11 Sep 2008 16:21:58 GMT

Lipstick and the politics of distraction

Joseph Kennedy — Thu, 11 Sep 2008 16:26:59 GMT

You complain about this nonsense yet you devoted most of your program to it. The Republican strategy is to turn people off voting alltogether, thereby surpressing turnout and enhancing their chances. John McCain has sold his soul and will say or do anything to become President. That should be your topic!

Lipstick and the politics of distraction

Donna Portland, ME — Thu, 11 Sep 2008 16:30:16 GMT

I support Obama all the way, but yes, I think Obama was probably make a reference to Palin...but in the way he described on Lettermen.

Palin is the lipstick (not the pig) on the piggish Republicans. She's what the marketing department dreamed up to rebrand and freshen up the 70 year old man selling the tired and failed (as proved by the last 8 years) GOP ideology.

But...who cares????!!! Just because Obama said something cute in reference to Palin's effect on the ticket, does not mean the McCain outrage was at all appropriate. The McCain response is especially silly because part of the Palin brand is the pit bull metaphor. Their fake outrage makes Palin seem like less of a pit bull and more a poodle. A poodle that will only bark at people and their pets through the window (attacks on Obama at the convention), but refuses to come outside to back-up her tough talk and defend herself to the big, bad "biased" reporters.

McCain's age and Palin's gender make no difference in how I will vote, but the issues do. If McCain were brave enough to discuss the issues instead of wasting all our time crying foul over politically incorrect statements, then Americans would know how to vote to protect their interest. I guess that's the point behind the "lipstick" controversy.

Also, I was distraught by the non-stop lipstick coverage on MSNBC yesterday. ALL DAY that is all the entire line up talked about. Though I appreciate Chris's alternative and tough approach...this type of story should not soak up 15 straight hours of a networks time. The election is less than 2 months away!!!

Chris apply the hardball skills you showed us last night to the really important stuff that the Republican surrogates need to be called out on.

Lipstick and the politics of distraction

Sandra, Chesapeake, VA — Thu, 11 Sep 2008 16:37:01 GMT

Christ: I think you did a great service to the american people to force the truth out of that republican strategist who finally agreed that Obama gets slammed unfairly by those trying to create an illusion about Obama a man of integrity. Most intelligent people recognize the republican tactics at war.

She was able to get away with calling hockey moms pitbulls which I found to be an insult. Her popularity is really about the curiousity and her soap opera life style, not her qualifications.

This rookie will take women back 40 years and drive this country further in the ground if she had to replace McCain. Meanwhile McCain has been following behind this woman's skirt-tail like a wimpering dog. Why has he (follower) allowed her (leader) to run the show. That says a lot about him... he is weak as a man and leader.

Lipstick and the politics of distraction

Alexandra Leigh — Thu, 11 Sep 2008 16:38:22 GMT

Please, if Karl Rove were a democrat, right now someone would be asking if someone with as thin skin as Governor Palin, who is taking offense at something that was no were near directed towards her, is really ready to help lead our nation. There are alot meaner spirited things that are actually intended to insult American officials that are said and done throughout the world every day and if she can't categorize the Obama statement as "does not apply to you", then I doubt she can handle what other nations say or do.

Lipstick and the politics of distraction

Karen Crowston — Thu, 11 Sep 2008 16:58:49 GMT

Obama is no more sexist than President Clinton is racist but Obama's folks used Bill's comments to their advantage and McCain's folks used Obama's comments to their advantage. This is politcs folks and what goes around comes around.

Lipstick and the politics of distraction

Jean Helsel — Thu, 11 Sep 2008 16:59:48 GMT

Chris,

I thought last nights show was superb. It's time an end was put to this demeaning smesaring of the other candidate.
I am female, a little older than you, registered Independent & would have voted for McCain in 2000, if his campaign had not been derailed by just the kind of scummy "ads". I have been sickened to see McCain turn around & use, not only the same type of "ads" but even the people who did the ads in 2000. I have lost all respect for the man. I just hope enough others can see what he has become, to employ such low means while saying he's "straight talking." The 180 changes in his policies, the stooping into the mud just shows he's either power hungry or senile.

Sorry, I got sidetracked. Just want to thank you for the lengths you went to to point out the stupidity of the braying of the Republicans. I hope you continue to attack ANY such stupidity, try & keep this about the issues, there is real difference in their approach to the economy, foreign relations etc.
Thank you Jean

Lipstick and the politics of distraction

Non-American, Kingston Jamaica — Thu, 11 Sep 2008 17:10:39 GMT

I am amazed that so many Americans are willing to forgo good sense and to abandon the issues to discuss all this follishness. Remember that after all of this is over you will have to live with whoever you elect. Don't allow yoursleves to be sidetracked.

Lipstick and the politics of distraction

Listener, California — Fri, 12 Sep 2008 00:02:30 GMT

Well done.... Well said....