View Full Version : Bush in Beijing
Bush appears to be enjoying himself at the Olympics.
http://www.usatoday.com/sports/olympics/beijing/volleyball/2008-08-09-Bush-beachvolleyball_N.htm
http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/presidentbush/2008/08/olympic-volleyb.html
Heads_On_Pikes
08-09-2008, 11:16 PM
:D
It's good to be head honcho ... good for Bush and the gals, who destroyed the Japanese team, for having a bit of fun!
Just saw a clip Bush watching Phelps winning his first gold of these games ... throwing a fist in the air like any American would do.
What is the point of this thread? Bush now has a "made-in-China" love child? :lol:
Well, looks like he wasn't QUITE as happy later. The look on Laura's face may have something to do with it. :lol:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tfibaWamS70
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=89JOEbVnHUY
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qfbztyavWP8&NR=1
Scaryclouds
08-10-2008, 01:34 AM
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tfibaWamS70
That proves it Bush is unpatriotic! That must rate right up there with not wearing a flag pin on your lapel and not putting your hand over your heart during the national anthem.
Soren
08-10-2008, 02:13 AM
His words chiding Chinese governments' record are easily lost in his servile visit to our creditor during its PR offensive. His actions should have matched his words.
That proves it Bush is unpatriotic! That must rate right up there with not wearing a flag pin on your lapel and not putting your hand over your heart during the national anthem.
"Patriotic" or not, those tapes tell a story all their own IMO. First we see Bush with his shirt hanging out playing in the sand with 2 half-naked young females - obviously having a VERY good time - and then we see him sitting with his wife - obviously angry and antsy and wishing he wasn't there - neither of them looking at the other and both looking at their watches. Laura is furiously using her fan and trying to appear interested and he's tapping his flag on his leg - not bothering to even PRETEND interest in the ceremony. If that isn't a couple who's just had a big fight and were then forced to appear in public together and can't wait to get out of there, I've never seen one. Their body language says it all.
That's MY interpretation - you're certainly entitled to yours. ;)
sedan
08-10-2008, 08:38 AM
That proves it Bush is unpatriotic! That must rate right up there with not wearing a flag pin on your lapel and not putting your hand over your heart during the national anthem.If Obama did something like that you'd see it played on every media outlet for weeks on end.
It would be offered as proof that he hates America.
Mirror Lake 444
08-10-2008, 09:06 AM
Russia is engaged in an aggressive war and Bush is whooping it up at the Communist Olympics. In world politics everything is read into what a leader is doing during a crisis. What a dolt!
Mirror Lake 444
08-10-2008, 09:33 AM
"Patriotic" or not, those tapes tell a story all their own IMO. First we see Bush with his shirt hanging out playing in the sand with 2 half-naked young females - obviously having a VERY good time - and then we see him sitting with his wife - obviously angry and antsy and wishing he wasn't there - neither of them looking at the other and both looking at their watches. Laura is furiously using her fan and trying to appear interested and he's tapping his flag on his leg - not bothering to even PRETEND interest in the ceremony. If that isn't a couple who's just had a big fight and were then forced to appear in public together and can't wait to get out of there, I've never seen one. Their body language says it all.
That's MY interpretation - you're certainly entitled to yours. ;)
Laura is probably furious she can't smoke and probably suffering nicotene fits. :D
Mirror Lake 444
08-10-2008, 09:40 AM
Does anyone else find it incompetent that a sitting president who wooed Georgia to contribute to the Iraqi coalition, and praised them for their independence blah blah blah is now whooping it up at the Olympics appearing oblivious to the fact that Georgia is being pulverized?
:shrug:
Does anyone else find it incompetent that a sitting president who wooed Georgia to contribute to the Iraqi coalition, and praised them for their independence blah blah blah is now whooping it up at the Olympics appearing oblivious to the fact that Georgia is being pulverized?
:shrug:
No moreso than his continuing to whoop it up in California on vacation appearing oblivious to the fact New Orleans was being washed away and people dying like flies.
ptac4x4
08-10-2008, 04:12 PM
Does anyone else find it incompetent that a sitting president who wooed Georgia to contribute to the Iraqi coalition, and praised them for their independence blah blah blah is now whooping it up at the Olympics appearing oblivious to the fact that Georgia is being pulverized?
:shrug:
So at no time is our President allowed to show enjoyment when there is trouble in the world. Why would anyone want to be President when every little thing is analyzed to death. What would you have Bush do? Leave the Olympics because Georgia is being hit? Tell Russia if they don't stop, we will attack them. Maybe, President Bush needs to ask the UN to get involved. That will fix it (smile).
Heads_On_Pikes
08-10-2008, 05:16 PM
No moreso than his continuing to whoop it up in California on vacation appearing oblivious to the fact New Orleans was being washed away and people dying like flies.
Yeah ... he should have jumped into the nearest telephone booth, turned into Superman, flew to the gulf and single-handedly pushed Hurricane Katrina back to the middle of the Atlantic. :rolleyes:
If Bush DID NOT attend the Olympics the same people would be upset about that as well. There would be a "Bush Refuses To Attend Olympics!!!" thread where this one sits.
Yeah ... he should have jumped into the nearest telephone booth, turned into Superman, flew to the gulf and single-handedly pushed Hurricane Katrina back to the middle of the Atlantic. :rolleyes:
If Bush DID NOT attend the Olympics the same people would be upset about that as well. There would be a "Bush Refuses To Attend Olympics!!!" thread where this one sits.
New Orleans survived Hurricane Katrina just fine. What they did NOT survive was the ensuing worst case scenario - the unthinkable that had been "what if'd" for many years - the collapse of the levees and the flooding of an entire city. The hurricane didn't kill anybody that I'm aware of. People either rode it out in their homes as they have many times before, or they went to the Super Dome where arrangements had been made for people who were unable to leave the city to come for safety. The horror was caused by the subsequent flooding of the entire city, people trapped on top of their houses or in attics unable to get out, flooded hospitals and nursing homes and the immediate loss of a good portion of their first responders and law enforcement people to the flooding and no help arriving for DAYS. That Bush didn't think that was sufficient cause to cut his vacation short by 1 or 2 days says it all IMO and that they had to make him a CD of all the news coverage to watch on his way to NO days later because he apparently hadn't watched any news coverage and had no idea what was actually happening there was even worse. Bush wasn't responsible for the hurricane and he wasn't responsible for the levees breaking. He WAS responsible for the unbelievably slow response to probably the worst disaster this country has ever seen.
And I don't think anybody really cares whether he went to the Olympics or not. He might as well - he doesn't do anybody any good staying on the job. He's just marking time until he can walk out and leave his horrendous messes for somebody else to clean up like he always has. :rolleyes:
dittohead not!
08-10-2008, 06:36 PM
Laura is now perfectly justified if she goes out and pats the butt of one of the male swimmers in his Speedo.;)
Laura is now perfectly justified if she goes out and pats the butt of one of the male swimmers in his Speedo.;)
Or heads straight for her suite in the Mayflower Hotel when AF1 touches down in the U.S. again. ;)
Bush said Laura was in Dallas not long ago trying to buy a house. Sounds like she's had all she can stand of the faux cowboy life - maybe the faux cowboy, too! :lol:
Now that's something the National Enquirer should get busy on. There have been rumors for a long time that she keeps a suite at the Mayflower and spends a lot of time there. If true, wonder what that means? :lol:
mtm1963
08-10-2008, 07:52 PM
:D
It's good to be head honcho ... good for Bush and the gals, who destroyed the Japanese team, for having a bit of fun!
Just saw a clip Bush watching Phelps winning his first gold of these games ... throwing a fist in the air like any American would do.
What is the point of this thread? Bush now has a "made-in-China" love child? :lol:
simply silly!!
it's also funny how some put so much effort into bashing Bush to get their jollies! :rolleyes:
it's not the first time, won't be the last.
mtm1963
Heads_On_Pikes
08-10-2008, 09:23 PM
simply silly!!
it's also funny how some put so much effort into bashing Bush to get their jollies! :rolleyes:
it's not the first time, won't be the last.
mtm1963
Heh, not to worry ... it won't be long before the "Messiah" will bring Nirvana to the world ... and all (but the typical white gun-toting religion clingers) will love the magical savior! He nearly walked on water today. Didn't take his wife and kids with to visit 85 year old Gandma in the apartment she raised him in for some time though ... that was sortta odd ... :lol:
Soren
08-10-2008, 09:56 PM
If Bush DID NOT attend the Olympics the same people would be upset about that as well. There would be a "Bush Refuses To Attend Olympics!!!" thread where this one sits.Yep, and that would be more proper for a leader who claims to be a friend of spreading democracy.
Heads_On_Pikes
08-10-2008, 10:34 PM
Yep, and that would be more proper for a leader who claims to be a friend of spreading democracy.
Why send the athletes at all if it's a protest you want. If the U,S. sends a team to the Olympics, it seems perfectly proper to me that the U.S. President also attend if possible.
I mean face it ... China is what it is and what it is, is a huge, prosperous nation we will have to interact with in the future - like it or not. China is changing rapidly it seems to me ... hell, Bush is slapping chicks on the rear end IN CHINA!
:D
Why send the athletes at all if it's a protest you want. If the U,S. sends a team to the Olympics, it seems perfectly proper to me that the U.S. President also attend if possible.
I mean face it ... China is what it is and what it is, is a huge, prosperous nation we will have to interact with in the future - like it or not. China is changing rapidly it seems to me ... hell, Bush is slapping chicks on the rear end IN CHINA!
:D
Hell, yes! We're really going up in the world! :lol:
Heads_On_Pikes
08-10-2008, 11:24 PM
Hell, yes! We're really going up in the world! :lol:
I knew that would get a laugh!
This is actually the most popular Olympic thread at WS I think ... :eek:
Soren
08-10-2008, 11:43 PM
Why send the athletes at all if it's a protest you want. If the U,S. sends a team to the Olympics, it seems perfectly proper to me that the U.S. President also attend if possible.
I mean face it ... China is what it is and what it is, is a huge, prosperous nation we will have to interact with in the future - like it or not. China is changing rapidly it seems to me ... hell, Bush is slapping chicks on the rear end IN CHINA!
:DIn all honesty China's lack of promised human rights reforms when they got the games would have been reasonable cause for taking the games from them (but the IOC hadn't the gumption), but short of the that a boycott would certainly have been more appropriate than supporting the PR campaign of a brutal authoritarian regime.
Where are their substantive governmental changes? What they have changed is the country's economic organization (reasonable given that their weakness in this area once threatened their hold on power), but they haven't changed the essential political reality of a one-party state which arrogates all power to itself.
Mirror Lake 444
08-10-2008, 11:53 PM
So at no time is our President allowed to show enjoyment when there is trouble in the world. Why would anyone want to be President when every little thing is analyzed to death. What would you have Bush do? Leave the Olympics because Georgia is being hit? Tell Russia if they don't stop, we will attack them. Maybe, President Bush needs to ask the UN to get involved. That will fix it (smile).
Right make a joke out of it. :rolleyes:
It's serious job that takes serious analytical thinking and brinksmanship. There is a time for enjoyment but not when serious things are going down that could have serious repercussions and an escalating domino effect in that region of the world.
But then I really don't expect more from Bush. He froze like a deer in headlights when the trade center got hit. And he didn't have a clue about the devastation of Hurrican Katrina until much later.
Yes, I would have him leave the Olympics to send a message to the Putin that he takes this seriously and is watching. The GD Olympics in Bejing is nothing more than communist propaganda anyway.
Attack. Sure. :rolleyes: You continue to make wise cracks.
Right make a joke out of it. :rolleyes:
It's serious job that takes serious analytical thinking and brinksmanship. There is a time for enjoyment but not when serious things are going down that could have serious repercussions and an escalating domino effect in that region of the world.
But then I really don't expect more from Bush. He froze like a deer in headlights when the trade center got hit. And he didn't have a clue about the devastation of Hurrican Katrina until much later.
Yes, I would have him leave the Olympics to send a message to the Putin that he takes this seriously and is watching. The GD Olympics in Bejing is nothing more than communist propaganda anyway.
Attack. Sure. :rolleyes: You continue to make wise cracks.
Yeah right :rolleyes:
Next you will be blaming Bush for the Iraq invasion, out of control government spending, our poor image world-wide, the torture scandals, the fact that the Katrina just happened to knock over the levies the night GWB was jamming at McCain's birthday party, etc...
It can't all be his fault.
WingsOfDesire
08-11-2008, 02:33 AM
"Patriotic" or not, those tapes tell a story all their own IMO. First we see Bush with his shirt hanging out playing in the sand with 2 half-naked young females - obviously having a VERY good time - and then we see him sitting with his wife - obviously angry and antsy and wishing he wasn't there - neither of them looking at the other and both looking at their watches. Laura is furiously using her fan and trying to appear interested and he's tapping his flag on his leg - not bothering to even PRETEND interest in the ceremony. If that isn't a couple who's just had a big fight and were then forced to appear in public together and can't wait to get out of there, I've never seen one. Their body language says it all.
That's MY interpretation - you're certainly entitled to yours. ;)
or impatience. the opening ceremony was incredibly long
or impatience. the opening ceremony was incredibly long
Impatient to get back to volleyball practice? :lol: :lol:
A lot of sniping back and forth in this post and I think some valid points on both sides are lost. First, the pictures are funny from a late-night comedian perspective, but we know that still frame photos often paint a far different picture from what actually happened. I highly doubt Bush was spanking the volleyball players in front of all the cameras. Having said that, I do think it was unwise of him to engage in such frivolity at this venue.
More importantly, I do not think it appropriate for him to be at the games at all. Bush is the first every sitting President to attend the Olympics on foreign soil and I think there is good reason for that. The Olympics are a sporting event, not a political event. Bush is sending mixed signals by making official comments while there as a guest and spectator. I think it is awkward.
Bush also likes to bask in the spotlight. His aircraft carrier stunt was highly inappropriate and I think it is inappropriate for him to be inserting himself into the spotlight in Beijing. He would have a chance for the traditional honoring of medal winners back at the White House.
I will also say that I am always a bit stunned that people view Bush as somehow representative of the common man. He isn't. He has access to these athletes only because he is the President. Defending his less than presidential behavior because he is "just another spectator" is trying to have the best of both worlds.
So, I can certainly understand the initial reactions of those who think Bush is getting unfairly bashed here, but I do believe there are legitimate reasons to criticize his overall handling of the Olympics.
Yeah ... he should have jumped into the nearest telephone booth, turned into Superman, flew to the gulf and single-handedly pushed Hurricane Katrina back to the middle of the Atlantic. :rolleyes:
If Bush DID NOT attend the Olympics the same people would be upset about that as well. There would be a "Bush Refuses To Attend Olympics!!!" thread where this one sits.
As stated in the above post, he is the first sitting President to travel abroad for the Olympics, so highly I doubt that there would be any widespread criticism of him for not attending. In fact, I could find no criticism of him at the time for not attending the Athens Olympics.
I think there is a widespread misconception that Presidents generally attend the Olympics and that his not attending would have been a form of protest. Not attending is the norm.
Alvin T. Grey
08-11-2008, 07:27 AM
Does anyone else find it incompetent that a sitting president who wooed Georgia to contribute to the Iraqi coalition, and praised them for their independence blah blah blah is now whooping it up at the Olympics appearing oblivious to the fact that Georgia is being pulverized?
:shrug:
Georgia is a red state.
God looks after them dontcha know.;)
Mirror Lake 444
08-11-2008, 08:33 AM
Yeah right :rolleyes:
Next you will be blaming Bush for the Iraq invasion, out of control government spending, our poor image world-wide, the torture scandals, the fact that the Katrina just happened to knock over the levies the night GWB was jamming at McCain's birthday party, etc...
It can't all be his fault.
I like your sarcasm! Even Wings of Desire missed the subtleness. :D
calean
08-11-2008, 11:30 AM
Russia is engaged in an aggressive war and Bush is whooping it up at the Communist Olympics. In world politics everything is read into what a leader is doing during a crisis. What a dolt!
So we should just stop supporting our athletes then? I'll bet you thought a boycott was in order cause you know, those work. :rolleyes:
A lot of sniping back and forth in this post and I think some valid points on both sides are lost. First, the pictures are funny from a late-night comedian perspective, but we know that still frame photos often paint a far different picture from what actually happened. I highly doubt Bush was spanking the volleyball players in front of all the cameras. Having said that, I do think it was unwise of him to engage in such frivolity at this venue.
One of the articles I read said he tapped her on the lower back rather than the buttocks as is the "custom". I'm being tongue-in-cheek about this, but at the same time, it seems highly inappropriate to me for the POTUS to be playing around in the sand with scantily clad females in front of the cameras that follow him around.
More importantly, I do not think it appropriate for him to be at the games at all. Bush is the first every sitting President to attend the Olympics on foreign soil and I think there is good reason for that. The Olympics are a sporting event, not a political event. Bush is sending mixed signals by making official comments while there as a guest and spectator. I think it is awkward.
Bush also likes to bask in the spotlight. His aircraft carrier stunt was highly inappropriate and I think it is inappropriate for him to be inserting himself into the spotlight in Beijing. He would have a chance for the traditional honoring of medal winners back at the White House.
I will also say that I am always a bit stunned that people view Bush as somehow representative of the common man. He isn't. He has access to these athletes only because he is the President. Defending his less than presidential behavior because he is "just another spectator" is trying to have the best of both worlds.
So, I can certainly understand the initial reactions of those who think Bush is getting unfairly bashed here, but I do believe there are legitimate reasons to criticize his overall handling of the Olympics.
Maybe that's what was wrong with him in the videos of him in the stand - he was "just another spectator" and not the center of attention as he was with the athletes and "huddling" with the basketball team before they went on the floor. ;)
mtm1963
08-11-2008, 11:40 AM
One of the articles I read said he tapped her on the lower back rather than the buttocks as is the "custom". I'm being tongue-in-cheek about this, but at the same time, it seems highly inappropriate to me for the POTUS to be playing around in the sand with scantily clad females in front of the cameras that follow him around.
Maybe that's what was wrong with him in the videos of him in the stand - he was "just another spectator" and not the center of attention as he was with the athletes and "huddling" with the basketball team before they went on the floor. ;)
why didn't you just call the 2 best women's volleyball players in the world sluts. your reference of them shows NO respect!
mtm1963
SurferH2O
08-11-2008, 12:24 PM
Weakest BBT in a long time.
Bravo to you Bush haters... this one is hilarious. :lol:
towski
08-11-2008, 12:26 PM
I haven't read a word in this thread, but I've enjoyed watching the president in Beijing, and thought his interview with Costas last night was enlightening and honest.
Carry on.
mtm1963
08-11-2008, 12:31 PM
Weakest BBT in a long time.
Bravo to you Bush haters... this one is hilarious. :lol:
we're so lucky to have such entertaiment. beats the hell out of having to pay for it! :lol:
mtm1963
Jack Burton
08-11-2008, 12:33 PM
Weakest BBT in a long time.
Bravo to you Bush haters... this one is hilarious. :lol:
You beat me to it! I’m not a big Dubya fan but this is definitely a “BBT+++” or whatever and nothing more…
why didn't you just call the 2 best women's volleyball players in the world sluts. your reference of them shows NO respect!
mtm1963
I have to disagree with you here. I have a lot of respect for all of the Olympic athletes, but it is a simple fact that the beach volleyball players are scantily clad, as are the men's swimmers and several other sports. That is not a judgement, but a fact. This sounds to similar to me of deflecting criticisms of Bush on to others, such as criticizing his Iraq policy was criticizing the troops.
Again, I don't think Bush had the slightest leacherous thought in his head when he did this. Personally, I would have limited myself to a high five. But really, I think there are more concerning aspects to Bush's attendance and how he has conducted himself which I raised and which I have not seen addressed yet.
Jack Burton
08-11-2008, 12:54 PM
I have to disagree with you here. I have a lot of respect for all of the Olympic athletes, but it is a simple fact that the beach volleyball players are scantily clad, as are the men's swimmers and several other sports. That is not a judgement, but a fact.
There are reasons they wear them though. Beach volleyball has high temperatures…swimmers do anything to remove drag…they’re not wearing them to show off how “hot” they are which seems to be the reasons insinuated in this thread…
mtm1963
08-11-2008, 01:02 PM
I have to disagree with you here. I have a lot of respect for all of the Olympic athletes, but it is a simple fact that the beach volleyball players are scantily clad, as are the men's swimmers and several other sports. That is not a judgement, but a fact. This sounds to similar to me of deflecting criticisms of Bush on to others, such as criticizing his Iraq policy was criticizing the troops.
Again, I don't think Bush had the slightest leacherous thought in his head when he did this. Personally, I would have limited myself to a high five. But really, I think there are more concerning aspects to Bush's attendance and how he has conducted himself which I raised and which I have not seen addressed yet.
it was meant in a derogatory manner. the thread speaks to this idea!!
plenty of threads on the subject. there a dime a dozen over my tenure here on WS.
Bush *****ing Thread. the new BB&T. :D
mtm1963
why didn't you just call the 2 best women's volleyball players in the world sluts. your reference of them shows NO respect!
mtm1963
I didn't call anybody a slut and their actions in this instance didn't call for "respect". In my very personal opinion - and obviously not shared by you - a scantily clad female who squats down in the sand and offers her half-exposed butt to the POTUS in an invitation for a "pat" in front of the world's cameras is being extremely inappropriate and disrespectful to the president who is then forced to either play along or appear rude himself. The fact that somebody is a good athlete (or president of the U.S.) is no excuse for inappropriate behavior and - again in my very personal opinion - ended up reflecting badly on BOTH of them.
Jack Burton
08-11-2008, 01:11 PM
It appears one of those naughty athletes put there grubby hands on the President as well…how dare they!!! :rolleyes: :D
Here's the proof (http://www.nbcolympics.com/softball/photos/galleryid=188397.html)!!!
There are reasons they wear them though. Beach volleyball has high temperatures…swimmers do anything to remove drag…they’re not wearing them to show off how “hot” they are which seems to be the reasons insinuated in this thread…
I agree. Same with Men's swimming. Just because there is a legitimate reason for them to be scantily clad doesn't mean that they aren't. To me, whether the President tapped the back of Misty May or high-fived Jason Kidd really isn't the point.
I would like to see some acknowledgment of the fact that Bush is the first sitting President to attend foreign games. Many of the posts here seem to imply that this is the norm. Just because something has never been done before doesn't make it wrong, but it seems to be that we are seeing why Presidents haven't done this in the past.
Not an impeachable offense, just a mistake in my opinion.
There are reasons they wear them though. Beach volleyball has high temperatures…swimmers do anything to remove drag…they’re not wearing them to show off how “hot” they are which seems to be the reasons insinuated in this thread…
I watched part of a beach volleyball game last night (Cuba and somebody) and both teams were wearing uniforms that completely covered both their "tops" and "bottoms". The tops were "halter" style and the bottoms were "Speedo" style but fully covered their butts and didn't ride up. The girls with Bush were dressed in "bikini" style tops and bottoms and from the back, the lower half of their butts were fully exposed. This was a practice session so hopefully they don't wear these same outfits in their games but they were surely aware that there would be lots of people and cameras around when they dressed for practice. If you want to carry it further, they weren't on a beach in Florida where everybody else was dressed the same way. They were representing the U.S.A. in probably the most highly publicized and photographed venue in the world. I don't think it would be unreasonable to expect them to be a little more circumspect in that situation and especially around the POTUS. Are there no standards of behavior/dress required of our athletes when they're representing their country in front of the entire world?
It appears one of those naughty athletes put there grubby hands on the President as well…how dare they!!! :rolleyes: :D
Here's the proof (http://www.nbcolympics.com/softball/photos/galleryid=188397.html)!!!
Not sure of your point here, but I feel the same way about this photo. I know it is all innocent and in good fun, but why is Bush on the field hugging the players? To me, this is just not the role of the President during the Olympics.
I understand that part of Bush's appeal to many is that he is jovial and not aloof. That is just personal preference. That is not what I seek in a President. I prefer a President who competently plans a war to one who pretends he is a participant (especially when he politely declined to participate in one when he had the chance). Likewise, I think the President ought to step back and let the athletes have their own moments and then honor them back in the U.S. for their achievements.
That part is minor. The more important issue, again, is the delicate nature of him attending the games as spectator while also having to make official announcements, some critical of the host country.
calean
08-11-2008, 01:23 PM
I agree. Same with Men's swimming. Just because there is a legitimate reason for them to be scantily clad doesn't mean that they aren't. To me, whether the President tapped the back of Misty May or high-fived Jason Kidd really isn't the point.
It sure seems to be the point you are making now for 2 pages. You bring up scantily clad, women and POTUS all in the same sentence. What other meaning can be derived from this other than what everyone else clearly sees?
I would like to see some acknowledgment of the fact that Bush is the first sitting President to attend foreign games. Many of the posts here seem to imply that this is the norm. Just because something has never been done before doesn't make it wrong, but it seems to be that we are seeing why Presidents haven't done this in the past.
Let me get this straight, you believe that presidents of the past didn't attend games because of scantily clad women in aquatics and beach volleyball would somehow bring disrespect to the office by "sexing it up" in their Olympic uniforms? So what if he's the first sitting president to attend. We buy all our crap from China. If anything for economic relations he's there to catch in some good sport. What's wrong with that?
Not an impeachable offense, just a mistake in my opinion.
I'm sure he's really concerned with making mistakes like the "Misty May Controversy" when he has less than 6 months left in office. FFS :rolleyes:
Honestly, this thread should be entitled "Bush has hard-on with Women's US Beach Volleyball Players...Laura Bush and wal disgusted."
... I don't think it would be unreasonable to expect them to be a little more circumspect in that situation and especially around the POTUS. Are there no standards of behavior/dress required of our athletes when they're representing their country in front of the entire world?
Anna, you certainly have the right to this opinion, however, I would argue that once this thread extends to the fashion etiquette of Olympic athletes, it is no longer in the realm of North American politics.
It appears one of those naughty athletes put there grubby hands on the President as well…how dare they!!! :rolleyes: :D
Here's the proof (http://www.nbcolympics.com/softball/photos/galleryid=188397.html)!!!
These girls look exactly like what you'd hope our athletes would look like in a world venue and I see nothing inappropriate on either side.
It sure seems to be the point you are making now for 2 pages. You bring up scantily clad, women and POTUS all in the same sentence. What other meaning can be derived from this other than what everyone else clearly sees?
You seem to have confused me with someone else. I merely reacted to MTM's post which I found to be unfair. Perhaps if you reread my posts you will have a different perspective.
Let me get this straight, you believe that presidents of the past didn't attend games because of scantily clad women in aquatics and beach volleyball would somehow bring disrespect to the office by "sexing it up" in their Olympic uniforms? So what if he's the first sitting president to attend. We buy all our crap from China. If anything for economic relations he's there to catch in some good sport. What's wrong with that?
It is all outlined in my previous posts which you seem not to have read.
[/QUOTE]I'm sure he's really concerned with making mistakes like the "Misty May Controversy" when he has less than 6 months left in office. FFS :rolleyes:
Honestly, this thread should be entitled "Bush has hard-on with Women's US Beach Volleyball Players...Laura Bush and wal disgusted."[/QUOTE]
Again, you ought to reread my posts. I did not display any disgust, but attempted to reframe to discussion away from the pictures and toward what I thought were more substantive criticisms of Bush's attendance of the games.
Jack Burton
08-11-2008, 01:34 PM
I agree. Same with Men's swimming. Just because there is a legitimate reason for them to be scantily clad doesn't mean that they aren't. To me, whether the President tapped the back of Misty May or high-fived Jason Kidd really isn't the point.
I would like to see some acknowledgment of the fact that Bush is the first sitting President to attend foreign games. Many of the posts here seem to imply that this is the norm. Just because something has never been done before doesn't make it wrong, but it seems to be that we are seeing why Presidents haven't done this in the past.
Not an impeachable offense, just a mistake in my opinion.
So if it hasn’t been done in the past it can’t be done at the present or in the future? There’s a first time for everything! Perhaps since a lot of the world thinks he’s nothing but a war monger showing a lighter side on a stage being viewed positively by most of the world seemed like a good idea… I look at the photos and see him supporting and having a good time with our athletes and them in turn having a good time with him. There’s nothing wrong with that in my opinion. :shrug:
calean
08-11-2008, 01:36 PM
Again, you ought to reread my posts. I did not display any disgust, but attempted to reframe to discussion away from the pictures and toward what I thought were more substantive criticisms of Bush's attendance of the games.
I'm not confusing you with anyone, and I think you are not reframing anything quite honestly. You are still on about how they are dressed etc.
I just don't think you like Bush, anything that he does, etc. I'm not a fan of him politically either, but I'm not going to bag on him for taking in the Olympics.
Would you feel the same way, or make similiar remarks when the President throws out the first pitch a baseball game? How about attending a football game?
seriously....
calean
08-11-2008, 01:37 PM
So if it hasn’t been done in the past it can’t be done at the present or in the future? There’s a first time for everything! Perhaps since a lot of the world thinks he’s nothing but a war monger showing a lighter side on a stage being viewed positively by most of the world seemed like a good idea… I look at the photos and see him supporting and having a good time with our athletes and them in turn having a good time with him. There’s nothing wrong with that in my opinion. :shrug:
Read my post above and you'll see that I've effectively pegged this guy. A bush hater all around, nothing the guy does is right, Obama will save us all. It's pretty clear I think.
Jack Burton
08-11-2008, 01:43 PM
These girls look exactly like what you'd hope our athletes would look like in a world venue and I see nothing inappropriate on either side.
Different event, different uniforms…so its not the President having a good time with the US team you object to but instead which athletes…and this bias is based on which uniforms said athletes choose to wear? Have I got that right? :confused:
Anna, you certainly have the right to this opinion, however, I would argue that once this thread extends to the fashion etiquette of Olympic athletes, it is no longer in the realm of North American politics.
Maybe so - however, IMO, the appearance and actions of anybody who represents the U.S. in another country is extremely important to how they view us. It reminds me of the Cheneys wearing those fur-lined parkas to a state leader's funeral (can't remember who that was). All the other heads of state in attendance had on dress suits, shoes, and overcoats and there they were sticking out like sore thumbs in their parkas and combat boots as if they either didn't know any better or just plain didn't care or had nobody to advise them on proper dress for such an occasion. Following certain codes of dress and behavior shows respect to the people who invited you to the event in your capacity as a representative of your country.
mtm1963
08-11-2008, 01:52 PM
I didn't call anybody a slut and their actions in this instance didn't call for "respect". In my very personal opinion - and obviously not shared by you - a scantily clad female who squats down in the sand and offers her half-exposed butt to the POTUS in an invitation for a "pat" in front of the world's cameras is being extremely inappropriate and disrespectful to the president who is then forced to either play along or appear rude himself. The fact that somebody is a good athlete (or president of the U.S.) is no excuse for inappropriate behavior and - again in my very personal opinion - ended up reflecting badly on BOTH of them.
it's all about the volleyball players.! ;)
i can't figure out the title of the thread though!
mtm1963
Different event, different uniforms…so its not the President having a good time with the US team you object to but instead which athletes…and this bias is based on which uniforms said athletes choose to wear? Have I got that right? :confused:
Call it bias or whatever you want - I didn't see any pictures of these girls squatted down offering their butts to be touched or any bare bottoms hanging out of their "uniforms".
mtm1963
08-11-2008, 02:01 PM
I agree. Same with Men's swimming. Just because there is a legitimate reason for them to be scantily clad doesn't mean that they aren't. To me, whether the President tapped the back of Misty May or high-fived Jason Kidd really isn't the point.
I would like to see some acknowledgment of the fact that Bush is the first sitting President to attend foreign games. Many of the posts here seem to imply that this is the norm. Just because something has never been done before doesn't make it wrong, but it seems to be that we are seeing why Presidents haven't done this in the past.
Not an impeachable offense, just a mistake in my opinion.
wouldn't know, precedent maybe!
remember this was a tour of the Far East, not just a trip going to China and the Olympics exclusively.
what's your beef? there's more opportunity in going than not going IMO. your disagreeing?
the volleyball stuff is BS! forget that!!
mtm1963
it's all about the volleyball players.! ;)
i can't figure out the title of the though!
mtm1963
Well, it sure was when I started this thread. Those were the only pictures I'd seen of him and how he was spending his time there. As I said earlier, it was intended to be "tongue in cheek" but apparently there are quite a few who think it's perfectly normal behavior for the POTUS . He certainly looks like the person they voted for - someone who'd be fun to go have a beer with. :lol: :lol:
mtm1963
08-11-2008, 02:14 PM
Well, it sure was when I started this thread. Those were the only pictures I'd seen of him and how he was spending his time there. As I said earlier, it was intended to be "tongue in cheek" but apparently there are quite a few who think it's perfectly normal behavior for the POTUS . He certainly looks like the person they voted for - someone who'd be fun to go have a beer with. :lol: :lol:
maybe next time you'll put a thread such as this in current events! :)
mtm1963
wouldn't know, precedent maybe!
remember this was a tour of the Far East, not just a trip going to China and the Olympics exclusively.
what's your beef? there's more opportunity in going than not going IMO. your disagreeing?
the volleyball stuff is BS! forget that!!
mtm1963
And maybe it's the additional responsibility added to the already overwhelming security aspects of hosting the Olympics. Considering the extraordinary security Bush travels with and the demands this makes on the host country (I read yesterday that he travels in Beijing at "high speed through streets that have been cleared of all traffic" in a 35-car convoy.) Do you think he's just wandering through the streets from practice to practice just like "any other spectator"? Do you think the Chinese authorities might have had enough to worry about without adding the responsibility of protecting a not very popular U.S. president for several days? :thinking:
steve_in_mich
08-11-2008, 02:19 PM
Not sure of your point here, but I feel the same way about this photo. I know it is all innocent and in good fun, but why is Bush on the field hugging the players? To me, this is just not the role of the President during the Olympics.
I understand that part of Bush's appeal to many is that he is jovial and not aloof. That is just personal preference. That is not what I seek in a President. I prefer a President who competently plans a war to one who pretends he is a participant (especially when he politely declined to participate in one when he had the chance). Likewise, I think the President ought to step back and let the athletes have their own moments and then honor them back in the U.S. for their achievements.
That part is minor. The more important issue, again, is the delicate nature of him attending the games as spectator while also having to make official announcements, some critical of the host country.
Well, I see where you're coming from but I disagree.
I don't see anything wrong with a sitting president enjoying the Olympic games in person and it seems that many of the athletes are thrilled to have him there.
The volleyball players have met him before and know him and Phelps mentioned how great it was to have him there.
I'm also quite sure that there are athletes there who want nothing to do with him.
Personally I think his attendance is rather indicative/reflective of how most people feel about the games - we can't ignore the politics of the world while the games are going on, and we don't necessarily 'approve' of China, but if we're going to do it, we may as well enjoy it.
maybe next time you'll put a thread such as this in current events! :)
mtm1963
So you feel the president's activities are of no political interest? :lol:
Jack Burton
08-11-2008, 02:21 PM
Call it bias or whatever you want - I didn't see any pictures of these girls squatted down offering their butts to be touched or any bare bottoms hanging out of their "uniforms".
It was the small of her back actually...but don't let facts get in the way of a perfectly good Bush Bash...did you even read your own article? :rolleyes:
mtm1963
08-11-2008, 02:26 PM
So you feel the president's activities are of no political interest? :lol:
i understand you hate Bush as President! :lol:
mtm1963
Personally I think his attendance is rather indicative/reflective of how most people feel about the games - we can't ignore the politics of the world while the games are going on, and we don't necessarily 'approve' of China, but if we're going to do it, we may as well enjoy it.
That's a good point. The Olympics bring people from all around the world together in a non-political way - both athletes and spectators. It should be completely separate from politics and used to promote better relations between the people of the different countries. Having the president there giving political announcements and criticizing the host country's stance on human rights and religious freedom is not in the spirit of the games. IMHO.
It was the small of her back actually...but don't let facts get in the way of a perfectly good Bush Bash...did you even read your own article? :rolleyes:
The "custom" she was asking him to participate in was a "tap on the butt" and was the reason for the squatting position she took. He had the good sense to only touch her back. That doesn't change the fact it's a position he should never have put himself in. He doesn't get to be "a regular guy" for 6 more months, and until then, he's still the POTUS wherever he goes and his behavior matters. And as Wal said, as a "regular guy", he wouldn't have been able to get anywhere near these athletes. He used his privilege as POTUS to try to appear to be "just another spectator".
Next Olympics, he can attend as "just another spectator" and "a regular guy" and touch all the butts he wants. ;) :lol:
i understand you hate Bush as President! :lol:
mtm1963
You've got that right - as President - not as a person. ;)
mtm1963
08-11-2008, 02:40 PM
You've got that right - as President - not as a person. ;)
isn't that the point of the thread. :) yes!!
mtm1963
Jack Burton
08-11-2008, 02:43 PM
The "custom" she was asking him to participate in was a "tap on the butt" and was the reason for the squatting position she took. He had the good sense to only touch her back. That doesn't change the fact it's a position he should never have put himself in. He doesn't get to be "a regular guy" for 6 more months, and until then, he's still the POTUS wherever he goes and his behavior matters. And as Wal said, as a "regular guy", he wouldn't have been able to get anywhere near these athletes. He used his privilege as POTUS to try to appear to be "just another spectator".
Next Olympics, he can attend as "just another spectator" and "a regular guy" and touch all the butts he wants. ;) :lol:
You really should read your own articles...here's a few quotes from the very first one:
BEIJING — Misty May-Treanor finally got her wish, when the President of the United States playfully slapped the small of her tattooed back.
On Friday, when President Bush met U.S. athletes ahead of the the opening ceremonies, beach volleyball star May-Treanor asked him to slap her lower back, a common gesture in her sport. He declined.
But on the practice courts of the Olympic volleyball venue, Beijing's Chaoyang Park, on sand imported from "China's Hawaii," Hainan Island, the bikini-clad May-Treanor tried again. And this time, he couldn't resist
So at first he declined...then on a practice field after being asked AGAIN he finally did it.
Really...don't let facts from your own article get in the way! :banghead:
calean
08-11-2008, 03:08 PM
New Thread Title = "I hate Bush and everything he does."
SurferH2O
08-11-2008, 04:18 PM
^^^^ lol
Anna,
In all honesty, this will likely help Bush's dismal approval numbers.
The Costas interview during prime time was actually excellent. Bob Costas is apparently a better interviewer than most of the mainstream media hacks.
Bush seemed to use the China event to publicly knock them for their abuses and Costas set it up beautifully. Score one for democracies.
Alvin T. Grey
08-11-2008, 04:27 PM
New Thread Title = "I hate Bush and everything he does."
50% correct. I was raised not to hate the afflicted.
^^^^ lol
Anna,
In all honesty, this will likely help Bush's dismal approval numbers.
The Costas interview during prime time was actually excellent. Bob Costas is apparently a better interviewer than most of the mainstream media hacks.
Bush seemed to use the China event to publicly knock them for their abuses and Costas set it up beautifully. Score one for democracies.
I missed the interview. However, does the President need the Olympics to be hosted by the country he wants to criticize in order to be effective? That isn't making sense to me.
Truly, I disagree with Bush's decision to go as sitting President, but it ranks pretty low on my list of issues.
SurferH2O
08-11-2008, 05:43 PM
I think it was particularly effective. Bush got to publicly criticize China IN CHINA with the world watching.
Other times it would just be chalked up as Western rhetoric and quickly dismissed.
Good Move.
Also, who thinks the Chinese female gymnasts are older than 14?
Soren
08-11-2008, 09:34 PM
That's a good point. The Olympics bring people from all around the world together in a non-political way - both athletes and spectators. It should be completely separate from politics and used to promote better relations between the people of the different countries. Having the president there giving political announcements and criticizing the host country's stance on human rights and religious freedom is not in the spirit of the games. IMHO.He should be criticizing them on those, to remind us of the whitewash job they're trying on us, but he shouldn't be there since it only legitimizes their charade. People see that he's there and think it OK, whatever he says be damned.So we should just stop supporting our athletes then? I'll bet you thought a boycott was in order cause you know, those work. :rolleyes:Human rights are a hundred more times more important than whether or not we participate in a sporting event. For a regime which has killed people at levels rivaling Nazis and Soviets, raining on their parade would show that until their people have rights we will regard that government as a collection as pariahs.
Crosscheck
08-11-2008, 11:22 PM
isn't that the point of the thread. :) yes!!
mtm1963
Why of course it is. You must be new here. Just look up at the dozens of threads with Obama name on them and tell me you don't see the hate. I could prepare a list but what a waste of time.
The truth is Republicans hate Democrats and Democrats hate Republicans.
When I think of a Republican I think of the Pilsbury dough boy Karl Rove. I don't care to associate with them. I can work with them but really don't want anything to do with them socially. Am not ready to associate with some of the far liberal Democrats either as I am probably classified as an old time red neck Democrat.
Am certain the Republicans don't care for me either but like I care.
Just for the record, I have no problem with Republicans. Don't mind conservatives either. Bush, well, he's simply been a poor, poor president. We shouldn't allow that point to be lost. He deserves a lot of real criticism.
But, no matter who wins the election, Bush will be gone. And I do believe, hope, that either of those running will be a better alternative.
He should be criticizing them on those, to remind us of the whitewash job they're trying on us, but he shouldn't be there since it only legitimizes their charade. People see that he's there and think it OK, whatever he says be damned.Human rights are a hundred more times more important than whether or not we participate in a sporting event. For a regime which has killed people at levels rivaling Nazis and Soviets, raining on their parade would show that until their people have rights we will regard that government as a collection as pariahs.
The goal of the Olympics is to promote peace and friendship among the people of the world. If they're allowed to host the Olympics, they should be treated the same as any other nation for the duration of the games. The president of the U.S. shouldn't go there and spend half his time publicly bashing and criticizing them and the other half expecting them to clear the streets as his 35-car motorcade passes through and afford him the respect he feels is due to him as POTUS.
And we should quit borrowing tens of billions of dollars a month from them to keep our own country running. (We probably had to borrow money from them to send Bush and his 35-car retinue there. :rolleyes: ) I remember the outrage when Chavez came here to the UN and called Bush a "devil". Do you think the Chinese people feel any differently when Bush goes to their country at a time of great national pride and excitement for them and uses their hospitality as an opportunity to bash and demean them?
dittohead not!
08-15-2008, 03:16 PM
Party aside, issues aside, and certainly nonsensical non issues of personal life aside, which one of the two leading candidates would be most likely to restore the international prestige that this nation once enjoyed?
And, is international prestige important to anyone?
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