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Today's Nuze

"Every government interference in the economy consists of giving an unearned benefit, extorted by force, to some men at the expense of others."

Ayn Rand

Nobody's listening.

WEAKNESS OR STRENGTH

By
Neal Boortz
@ April 10, 2009 9:19 AM Permalink | Comments (100) | TrackBacks (0)

The United States tells them not to do it. The useless United Nations tells them not to do it. They do it. It has been five days since North Korea launched a missile capable of reaching Hawaii. What is America's response? What is the international response? The silence is deafening. What are we showing here? Weakness or strength?

The mad man that runs Iran is bragging that they now have 7000 centrifuges up and running making enriched nuclear weapons-grade fuel. He also brags that they have developed a technology that enhances the enrichment progress. At the same time the Iranian president continues to say that Israel's days are limited. In the meantime Vice President Joe Biden warns Israel that they had better not even think about attacking Iran. No strong warning to Iran. What are we projecting here, strength or weakness?

The Islamic pirates continue to hold an American hostage off the coast of Somalia. We're talking, not acting. So far I have not heard about any search for the pirate mother ship and there's no talk of blockading Somalian ports. The pirates may well end up with millions of dollars and safe passage to Somalia where they will release their American hostage. Strength or weakness?

The American the ragtag Islamic pirates are holding tried to escape. He dove out of the boat and into the water and tried to get away. Our Navy was standing off and not close enough to help him. The Islamic pirates overtook him and took him into custody again. This man tried to escape in full view of American forces. They were either unable or unwilling to help him. Perhaps the American Captain thought that when he was out of the pirate's boat the Navy would blow them away. Didn't happen. Strength or Weakness?

America - once strong, now cowering.

Change you can believe in?

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What others are saying

  • DRM
    Don't tell me I SHOULD respect the office. Screw the office!!! It hasn't been treated with respect in almost 100 years since the days of Woodrow Wilson. Show me a President since then that has TRULY stuck to the Constitution. The reality is, there isn't one. Not even Ronald Reagan stuck to the Constitution on every twist and turn of his Presidency and he was the best we've had in the last 100 years.
    By LiberalHater @ 04/13/09 03:09:26 PMreport abuse
  • Weakness or Strength
    Looks like we have a lot of backseat presidential advisors commenting here. Now that 3 pirates are DRT and 1 in custody, many of you should think twice before posting your doubtful, disrespectful, unintelligle, half-cocked commentary about what the president "should" be doing. Presidential action does NOT take place in a vacuum. Timing and information are critical. Everything has potentially serious ramifications... most of which the general public has virtually NO clue about. Whether you voted for a particular president or not, as a real American, you should respect the office and the holder of the office. If you disagree with policy or decisions, then do it constructively and with at least some degree of intellect.
    By DRM @ 04/13/09 03:44:15 AMreport abuse
  • Dead Pirates
    Obama 1
    Conservative Naysayers 0
    Pirates (-3)

    Hmmm, let's see. Navy SEALs went in, under PRESIDENT OBAMA'S orders. Obama gave them permission to fire if necessary and they did! No dope smoking. No wussy, pansy decision making. Sent in the professionals. The people who train daily for these moments and that would be regular sailors.

    Looks like strength in this case. Of course Neil and other conservatives will find a way to spin this so it's not in Obama's favor. Such is the world of talk radio.

    Still, a decision was made by the COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF. Contrary to Neil's supposition, use of force was authorized. Three dead pirates, 1 safe and secure captain who will enjoy the candy eggs waiting for him at home! Good job to all involved.
    By A Voice @ 04/13/09 01:47:31 AMreport abuse
  • 3 pirates dead, captain free
    A few SEALs brought this to the best possible outcome.

    http://www.cnn.com/2009/WORLD/africa/04/12/somalia.pirates/index.html
    By Rob Evans @ 04/12/09 04:00:15 PMreport abuse
  • Obama's Failed Every Test
    Obama's has failed every test: NK missile test, Cessna penetration of US air space and Somali pirates.
    By Crosscut @ 04/11/09 10:11:08 AMreport abuse
  • Weakness
    Jimmy Carter's second term.
    By Scott @ 04/11/09 10:02:27 AMreport abuse
  • Maybe we can control the NK missile
    I've been suspicious that we can electronically intercept the NK missles, and every one they launch will land harmlessly in the Pacific where we want it to land. No proof, but as much non-attention this is getting it just raises my suspicions.
    By Scott @ 04/10/09 10:53:19 PMreport abuse
  • tshirt doctor
    I am free, To a point. But we all are under the wrath of the government in one for or another. Lately I am nervous watching the antics of the peoples choice.
    But about the imprissioned, I am of the opinion that our society has coddled many of our citizens to the point they expect this or demand that with very little or no effort on their own to achieve set goals, They see very little punishment for taking the FAST BUCK and are too lazy to do it the old fashioned way. So they do it to themselves without any influence from you or me.
    By Greg @ 04/10/09 10:43:02 PMreport abuse
  • YES!
    J.R.C. for President! You go bud! I'm standing with ya on that comment! Pork chop eating Muslim scum sucking pie-rates! LOL! now THAT was funny, I don't care who ya are!
    By I. Moyer @ 04/10/09 08:49:05 PMreport abuse
  • strenght or weakness
    What amazes me is how Neal has you all riled up, you do not know what is really happening or what the plan is.
    Where is the navy seal they are always showing them on Tv like they are supermen.
    So Obama is a monkey then you and George W are goats and have the Iq of a goat.
    this is what cracks me up One person captured and neal wants world war three even though he never fought in any war. He is the educated one his listeners have no clue that is why they hang on on to his every word even though he told you to research it.
    I hate to use color but White folks have kidnapped and killed millions of people so now you know how some Americans feel.
    This is not a military suituation so it is a different scenario.
    So let Neal get you all riled up same way George and Dick did and no WMD's were found, now we are in a trillion dollar debt foreclosures people losing their Jobs It is all Obama's fault?
    @ JIM
    to the English fellow that wrote the piece typical english at least America had the balls to elect someone of color in England it would never happen because the Queen has made you all Moron's quoted from the (sex pistols)biggest hit. God save the queen.
    By mee @ 04/10/09 05:42:07 PMreport abuse
  • Islamic Pirates?
    Did that say "Islamic pirates?" That cannot be. Hussein Obama has already changed all that. We no longer have to fear anything from Islamists. Certainly a mistake here.
    By jr @ 04/10/09 05:26:29 PMreport abuse
  • Axis of Evil
    Happy Easter all. It seems like only yesterday that every talking head in DC, Manhattan and the West Coast appeared regularly on the Sunday shows to explain what a naïve fool Bush was for calling N. Korea, Iran and Iraq the axis of evil. However, look where we are now and consider how much worse it would be if Saddam were still in control of Iraq with a reconstituted nuclear weapons program. I think GW Bush was right and the rest of the world was wrong.

    Likewise, most “intelligent” people, especially on the left, seemed to think what GW Bush did in Iraq was a huge mistake. The world’s now applauding Obama for his enlightened approach to foreign policy. They seem to have missed the irony in N. Korea testing an ICBM at the same time Obama was promising to rid the world of evil nukes. Unfortunately, Obama seems to be just as clueless. He’s enjoying the applause and basking in the warmth of the world’s love. Why should he worry about something as mundane as North Korean Nukes? In the very near future, we might all find out that Obama’s sin of omission in North Korea is much, much worse than Bush’s sin of commission in Iraq. Such an event might end the political career and legacy of Obama; but, for our country's sake, I hope I’m wrong.
    By TheATLMac @ 04/10/09 05:17:30 PMreport abuse
  • are we surprised?
    Are we really surprised that we are sending in FBI to negotiate the transfer of millions of dollars to those that don't deserve it? I mean the Pres would never do that right?
    By goingcrazy @ 04/10/09 04:47:28 PMreport abuse
  • Weakness
    Neal, there's a reason "we're bending over" - don't you think????
    By Ellen @ 04/10/09 04:25:13 PMreport abuse
  • Strength or Weakness
    I believe it is significant that under the Bush administration, these same crazy pirates who have been operating for years in these waters never attacked an American ship. They waited for a President they knew did not have the fortitude to give them what they deserve.
    By Disgusted @ 04/10/09 04:02:51 PMreport abuse
  • Real mature, Jason
    By Jason @ 04/10/09 12:52:58 PM:

    I bet you were captain of your college's debate squad. You are so articulate and mature and on-topic in the way you debate issues. Don't like what someone says? Call them names and tell them to go away.

    And please tell me what I have ever written at boortz.com that is "neo-Communist".
    By AWK 829 @ 04/10/09 04:00:51 PMreport abuse
  • pirates
    I'm an Annapolis grad who served 6 years in the Marine Corps, and at first blush, I agree that the skipper of the destroyer should have sunk the pirates' small craft as soon as the guy jumped out. However, that is not as simple a proposition as most people think. There are a lot of variables, including range to the other boat, available weapons, and how far the hostage got in his escape attempt. A destroyer's got a lot of fire power, and it can be "pinpoint" accurate, but "pinpoint" means different things when dealing with another naval vessel than it does with a small boat and a swimmer in the water whom we would prefer not to kill. Even with all the computer targeting systems, a five inch gun probably won't be dead on target the first shot. It also has a considerable kill radius. Minimally trained sailors firing small arms from the rolling deck of a ship isn't exactly the best option either. (Nothing against the Navy, they are great at their jobs, but that usually doesn't include employment of rifles and machine guns.) A helicopter might be a good platform from which to engage, but this class of destroyer has no hangar deck and may not even be carrying one.

    Also, given this administration's track record, I wouldn't be surprised if the rules of engagement issued to the Navy prevented them from taking action at all.
    By Eric @ 04/10/09 03:50:29 PMreport abuse
  • Worry about Russia
    Of course there is always concern about Russia, but their leaders are not insane. Kim is definitely elwacko and the Iranian leader is not far behind. Major powers have control, they realize the damage that would be done to both sides. Crazy religious fanatics don't care. That is the scary part.

    We also have the fact that we are broke to worry about! So to find a balance between not going into debt to China and others for trillions more than we already owe and still keeping an eye on this wacko. BUT we should still do something about the pirates.
    By Joyce M/Blythe, GA @ 04/10/09 02:50:20 PMreport abuse
  • Dan's comments
    Beautifully spoken! Agree 100%!
    By Dagny's Ghost @ 04/10/09 02:43:29 PMreport abuse
  • Woah Jason!
    Chill buddy, I know some of these lefties are hard to deal with but AWK is a little bit smarter. Although AWK complaining about the name calling is forgetting that it works both ways. There are plenty here who bash conservatives pretty good too, so we on both sides I guess have to deal with it, cause I don't see everyone agreeing to behave ourselves.
    By Joyce M/Blythe, GA @ 04/10/09 02:37:25 PMreport abuse
  • Thanks for clearing that up, Big Africa.
    Russia invaded Georgia because Georgia invaded a rebellious region of their own country, it makes perfect sense.

    How long before the SW USA attempts secession to form Aztlan, do you think the US should let them go, and is it okay if the Mexican army invades the USA to enforce it? Just curious.
    By CowboyUp @ 04/10/09 02:35:50 PMreport abuse
  • Big Africa
    Well, I hate to break it to you, but your claims of things not being Constitutional have soundly been defeated time and time again. If they're not Constitutional, then why are they in place? Wouldn't it be easy to shoot it down in the Supreme Court? If you're so adimant that it isn't in the Constitution, then why don't you challenge it on your own? I don't disagree that it needs to be changed. I just want to point out that it DOES say it in the Constitution and it IS part of law today. It doesn't matter how you feel about it. It's a fact.
    By LiberalHater @ 04/10/09 02:28:26 PMreport abuse
  • The Russians???
    Good lord tshirt....that was weak. How old are you? And I'm not asking that in a mean-spirited way. Just trying to get a bead on which generation you're in.

    So in case you've never heard the term it's called mutual anilation. We DO NOT fear the Russians - we respect them just as they respect us because we too have nukes pointed at them.

    (sigh.....) Listen, I know you find this hard to believe for whatever reason, but all the nations who have nukes FEAR certain countries that would develop and use nukes for terroristic or bullying or blackmailing or whatever you want to label it means. The countries that DO have nukes have created them mostly for defensive and not offensive purposes. This is something we and the other nuclear weapon countries know. The one exception, I'll concede, is the U.S. which originally developed their nuclear weaponry for offensive purposes quickly followed by defensive needs when we realized the Russians were at it too.

    But it was a nice try tshirt.
    By Tom @ 04/10/09 02:13:14 PMreport abuse
  • Actually....
    Actually, what we said was that IRAQ wasn't a threat.

    And guess what? We were 100% right!

    That's what comes of being smart and rational, rather than a right-wing loon.
    By Copyleft` @ 04/10/09 02:11:57 PMreport abuse
  • @ tshirt-doctor
    I would have to agree with you on one point and that is that our prison systems are WAY over-run...but now I wonder why?? Could it be because there are so many guilty who should have been executed ages ago but yet remain alive? They continue to choke up the prison system, keep the tax payer a-payin', and keep the ole prison business a-thrivin'
    By Dan @ 04/10/09 02:10:44 PMreport abuse
  • pirates
    if your sailing into pirate infested waters, and you don't anything to protect yourself with, then that's your fault.
    By tshirt-doctor.com @ 04/10/09 02:06:53 PMreport abuse
  • Greg @
    do you think we're free? or free enough?
    i live in georgia, where 1 out of 13 citizens are in prison, in jail, on probation, or on parole. are 196% increase since the 1980's.

    do you think we have suddenly increased are lawlessness?

    the prison business and the law enforcement, it's the only business that's hasn't been hurt by the depression.
    By tshirt-doctor.com @ 04/10/09 01:51:52 PMreport abuse
  • Liberal Hater..
    Looks like you fell short. I would say I dispute it but there's nothing to dispute. The income tax was defeated twice in the country before it passed. The founders didn't particularly agree with an income tax. The founders also did not try to escape large,intrusive,centralized government simply to set themselves up to be ruled by large, intrusive,centralized government...they did not believe in the welfare state, and I imagine they would not believe in keeping an entire nation on welfare. Thanks for the statements from the constitution...Sure the govt may take an income tax because of the amendment that allows it(hopefully it can be overturned soon)however I still see nothing that okays keeping an entire nation on welfare, particularly if it causes blowback and puts the U.S in harms way. The Fedeal GOvt is supposed to protect the U.S. Interestingly enough war has yet to be declared on Iraq. Voting to use force is not the same as declaring war on a specific enemy. Sorry to break it to you.
    By Big Africa @ 04/10/09 01:44:03 PMreport abuse
  • power???
    our country has had its day in the sun. we are on the road to 3rd world status. we are over run with illegal's, we're broke, we have no leadership in any gubmint office.

    if the skipper of the mearsk alabama has any religious beliefs i hope he has made his peace with his god.

    i would like to see him get home unharmed and the stinking pork chop eating muslim scum sucking pie-rats all killed. then again no one cares what i like or think.

    if i was in charge i would deploy some of my very well trained and motivated young warriors and tell them "do the job you do best and try to bring our man home." notice the word try is used and no other instructions given. SEALS, DELTA FORCE, GREEN BERETS any one of them would a good choice but maybe Seals would be the best choice seeing they are water trained.

    osamabama can't make a decision of this scope because he stands for nothing. i believe Harry Truman or Ronald Wilson Reagan would have the same answer i have. they both had BALLS. the last one in D.C. with balls is Hillery and she has 2 sets, billys and the pair that she grew.
    By J.R.C. @ 04/10/09 01:40:47 PMreport abuse
  • @copy
    "Protecting innocent lives is more important than blowing stuff up."

    So you are saying that these pirates are innocent?

    The moment this guy dove into the water their should have been a full scale assault.
    By Andre Bradshaw @ 04/10/09 01:38:19 PMreport abuse
  • Bullies
    Unfortunately, I think our President decided the best way to deal with bullies as a child was to smoke dope to forget about them. He needs to learn that lesson soon, and deal with them. It's totally incredulous that the strongest nation militarily on earth can't deal with ragtag Muslim pirates.
    By perdidochas @ 04/10/09 01:38:03 PMreport abuse
  • ..good ole Copyleft...tsk tsk
    I don't think we've been giving this guy (as well as a few other utopian dreamers on this blog) the credit they deserve...without these guys, who would us rational thinkers have to THRASH on a daily basis!!

    Of course, copyleft, North Korea is definitely no threat and the fact they can reach Hawaii with their missiles is beside the point, right??

    You talk of diplomacy first but your idea of diplomacy only works properly in a perfect world where everyone is expected to use reason and rationality to good effect

    You see, its survival of the fittest when comes down to dipomacy and this "swaggering, tough guy" image you speak so negatively in reference to Bush is what keeps us at the top of the food chain and, in turn, prevents us from becoming fish bate to terrorism and the rest of the world. Reality isn't always pretty but I'd say it's worth the price of freedom, wouldn't you? With our new Commander in Chief in office this is looking to become a difficult image to maintain.
    By Dan @ 04/10/09 01:37:22 PMreport abuse
  • Strength or weakness
    I want to personally thank the "Dumb Masses" that helped elect President Obama. The change that you believe in will cripple this nation. For you that's fine, weaker is better. It matches your mentality and sitting that fat ass of yours on the couch watching reality TV all day. This is real life not American Idol, you can't just "Change" the channel and "Hope" there is something more interesting to vote on.
    By Norm White @ 04/10/09 01:18:37 PMreport abuse
  • UK Writer gets it Right
    Barack Obama: President Pantywaist - new surrender monkey on the block

    This is a good read. Right on target.

    http://blogs.telegraph.co.uk/gerald_warner/blog/2009/04/10/barack_obama_president_pantywaist__new_surrender_monkey_on_the_block
    By Jim @ 04/10/09 01:14:54 PMreport abuse
  • EMP
    red leader,

    Google EMP. Beter yet, Google Electromagnetic Pulse Threats. Read a little bit of what you find.

    Your synopsis regarding the fall of the Roman Empire is something else. I found it hilarious when you accused people of drinking Kool Aid. You, sir, are obviously snorting it.
    By ed davis @ 04/10/09 01:14:04 PMreport abuse
  • Weakness of Strength
    WEAKNESS!!! Just like bowing to the Saudi King is weak.
    By Dave @ 04/10/09 01:08:37 PMreport abuse
  • Tolerating Evil
    CS Lewis said in one of his books "those who sup wih the devil need a long spoon indeed." The point being that the devil hates us no matter what we do, so why bother to try to accomodate sorry evil-doers. Let's draw a line and take them to task!
    By Steve A. @ 04/10/09 01:03:49 PMreport abuse
  • idiots on the left
    "nd, to all the critics of those of us who bring alternative views to this forum" Three letters for you AWK, you neo-Communist: GFY. You and your pathetic ilk isn't wanted here for anything other than proving that liberalism is insanity.
    By Jason @ 04/10/09 12:52:58 PMreport abuse
  • Copywrong the libtard..
    "The intelligent response to North Korea's latest cry for attention? Ignore it; they're not a threat."

    That idiot probably also said we should ignore Al Qaeda as they aren't a threat to US shores either. Whatever trash like this libtard believes, run in the other direction. Your very life may depend on it.
    By Jason @ 04/10/09 12:43:41 PMreport abuse
  • russia has nukes too
    in case you didn't remember that. they got them pointing at our cities. a lot of nukes. not just one or two, but a lot. and their techno stuff is way beyond that of the koreans. if they shot one off, chances are that it would hit their target. that's better than the koreans would do, since their missile tests end up as failures.

    why aren't we scared of the russians? that's because we fear anyone who our governmemt(media) tells us to be afraid of.

    how about pakistan's nukes? why isn't anybody scared of them?

    you people are being led around by a noses
    By tshirt-doctor.com @ 04/10/09 12:40:26 PMreport abuse
  • Strength / Weakness
    Wonder how many times Malia & Sasha have heard "If I have to tell you one more time . . ." or "Don't make me come up there . . ." or "When your mother gets home, you're really going to get it". A man is only as good as his word & our main man is showing what his word really is worth.
    By RenRan @ 04/10/09 12:22:30 PMreport abuse
  • Pirates
    At least the Captain showed some bravery by trying to escape, where the hell are the seals or SF. I hope when this guy escapes sucessfully he punches the first sailor he sees.
    By Kathy @ 04/10/09 12:11:55 PMreport abuse
  • Democratic Strength
    I look at 2 of our leftist posters on this site and marvel at the freedoms they enjoy by posting their different views but try to post opposing views on many leftist websites and see what happens, DELETE. Just one point in this warped cult of leftist ideology.
    The left seems to think that these other countries think like they do. FAR from it, Stalin refered to the left in our country as useful idiots, I can respect their ideals but unfortunately in the REAL world no one plays nice. Thats why there need to be Marines Seals Rangers etc to do the dirty work so we can all live free.
    SEMPER FI
    By Greg @ 04/10/09 12:08:05 PMreport abuse
  • Hey Chuck...
    You say we should ignore 'Lil' Kim (something I disagree with...that little guy is insane) yet you "curbed" a neighborhood punk...doesn't sound like you ignored him to me...I could be wrong.
    By Jedi @ 04/10/09 12:06:37 PMreport abuse
  • The only thing secure in the "UN Security Council" is the stupidity of those who are subservient to this hypocrisy. Actually, B. Hussein O. is waiting until PRNK and the gargoyl perfect the third stage so the rocket can reach Alaska. Making it & Sarah Palin are no longer threats to his kingdom.
    By anonymous @ 04/10/09 12:05:24 PMreport abuse
  • Pirate
    As long as the hostage was close to the boat, to engage the pirates would include a high risk of killing him. Either through rounds landing around the boat or in the explosion of said boat. Anyone who has walked rounds in on a target knows what I am talking about. Discretion is the better part of valor in this case.
    By The Opinionator @ 04/10/09 12:03:20 PMreport abuse
  • Big Africa
    I appreciate your concern that you would assume I'm a conservative. I'm not. As a matter of fact, I think that conservatives can be just as damaging to this country as a liberal. However, let's talk about your question:
    >>Where does it say in the constitution that the American Federal Govt should take from an individual's earnings by means of force in order to put an entire nation on welfare?<<

    Here is my response and let me know if you'd like to dispute it. If so, please see the U.S. Supreme Court on this one:

    Section. 8.
    Clause 1: The Congress shall have Power To lay and collect Taxes
    Clause 3: To regulate Commerce with foreign Nations

    Clause 11: To declare War, grant Letters of Marque and Reprisal, and make Rules concerning Captures on Land and Water;

    Clause 12: To raise and support Armies, but no Appropriation of Money to that Use shall be for a longer Term than two Years;

    Section. 2.
    Clause 1: The President shall be Commander in Chief of the Army and Navy of the United States, and of the Militia of the several States


    I think that pretty much covers it from all angles....
    By LiberalHater @ 04/10/09 11:58:16 AMreport abuse
  • "Haven't heard of any "incidents" in years"

    This doesn't really tell us much. Just because the news won't report it doesn't mean its not happening. South Ossetia being attacked by Georgia first before Russia did something about it for instance...

    It seems Kim is always thinking about a re-unified Korea. I imagine he'd want it to be communist, but he would fail. N. Korea are the weak ones in the equation, S. Korea would dominate with free market capitalism(probably encouraged by capitalist China and Japan also).S.Korea can actually make money, they would be much more influencial. Millions of n.Koreans are trying to flee n.Korea anyway through China,Thailand and Cambodia(a life threatening journey by the way) to try to get to S.Korea...which model do you think they would chose between the 2? Which model won in Vietnam after years of armed conflict?

    Right now the S.Korean border is better protected than the American/Mexico border. To my knowledge it is one of the most militarized places in the world.
    By Big Africa @ 04/10/09 11:57:27 AMreport abuse
  • I got your ransom right here
    The pirates want some kind of ransom? I guess that means money.
    I think in their whole life of pirating they only collected a small pile of cash.
    Now that they are dealing with the U.S., they can get a boat load of cash and they know it.
    We'll give them the cash, some extra gas and they can be on their way.
    Why don't we just offer them a couple Big Macs each and see how that goes.
    By Ronald @ 04/10/09 11:46:30 AMreport abuse
  • lifeboat?
    Isn't it small, dinghy type? Three or four scuba divers up underneath, tip it, pull our guy out. No one hurt. Unless they can't swim (insert evil grin here).
    By Joyce M/Blythe @ 04/10/09 11:40:51 AMreport abuse
  • pirates
    what they need to do is pay them follow them home via gps or predeterand when the money stops blow them to hell
    By mike from nc @ 04/10/09 11:38:46 AMreport abuse
  • Big Africa
    N. Korea becoming a free market? You are joking right? Anyone here think that would happen? What few we have in S. Korea I doubt Kim even thinks about them. Haven't heard of any "incidents" in years so I don't think he considers them a threat.
    By Joyce M/Blythe @ 04/10/09 11:38:37 AMreport abuse
  • Response
    I know in your heart you think ignoring the North Koreans is the right thing to do, Copyleft, but I will respectfully disagree. In one sense, you're right. Kim Il Jong is a petulant child who should be ignored lest we enourage his childish antics. North Korea wants us all to feel threatened. I don't take them seriously and nobody else should either. But to ignore them is just going to make them want to do it again, just like the children they are. Ignoring them and then treating them like they are a real nation with real leadership helped make this situation what it is( thank you Mr.Clinton, Mr. Bush, Mr.Carter!) I'm pretty sure the Chinese and Russians figured out a while ago what an unstable lunatic Il Jong is. I don't think they want any part of him either. If the UN had any cojones, it would slap him. They don't, he knows it. So let's not take the 'Neville Chamberlain' express everytime a rogue state like Iran, North Korea or the Socialist Paradise that is Venezuela hitches up their Power Ranger briefs and tries to talk tough. Send a message, pirates will be hanged, second rate dictators will be surrounded and cut off, lobbing missles over Japan will provide some fine fireworks for the viewers on tonights news. When I knocked the bejeezus out of a neighborhood punk, he stopped bothering me. Funny how that works.
    By Chuck @ 04/10/09 11:37:18 AMreport abuse
  • SF, I'm the idiot?
    SF @ 04/10/09 10:38:08 AM. Who is the "idiot" and "grade A moron" when you do not know the difference between "you're" and "your" in the headline of your post?

    And, to all the critics of those of us who bring alternative views to this forum, you're not going to change our minds by calling us idiots, morons, etc. Didn't you learn the art of rhetoric and argument in high school Civics class, you poopyheads?
    By AWK 829 @ 04/10/09 11:36:30 AMreport abuse
  • President Obamuppet weakens our nation
    Neal, for years you have been saying we're becoming a nation of wussies. We now have the perfect Prezbo for it. It's unbelievable that four flating scum bag terrorists haven't been blown out of the water.Barack afraid he might offend somone? What a wuss.
    By Steve Boston @ 04/10/09 11:29:19 AMreport abuse
  • Liberal Hater
    Where does it say in the constitution that the American Federal Govt should take from an individual's earnings by means of force in order to put an entire nation on welfare? Is paternalism and the expanded welfare state a conservative idea now?
    By Big Africa @ 04/10/09 11:22:29 AMreport abuse
  • AWK & Copy
    You guys must not have grown up in the same kind of town I did. If someone doesn't stand up to a schoolyard bully and give him a bloody nose, he'll keep preying on everyone around him. Some people only understand fear and humility--- whether they're on the giving side or the receiving. Until these pirates, thugs, and despots stop terrorizing and threatening everyone in our global community, every last one of us is a potential victim.

    If my spouse, father, or child was the one being held captive, I'd pray for their safe return. But at the same time, I would not want to give in to these animals, and would hope our Navy and our CinC is prepared to send them to a watery grave if anything more than asking once for release of the hostages should happen. It's the only thing that might actually deter future piracy (and even that's a tough call, as evil as these bastards seem to be).

    I love to buy the world a Coke, and teach them all to sing as much as any liberal in this world. But until terrorists and oppressors are ready to put down their guns and sing Kumbayah with us, we'd better keep one hand on our own gun, and be ready to use it. It's not about war mongering--- it's about meeting force with force, and doing so to save more lives in the long run.
    By David Hughes @ 04/10/09 11:21:30 AMreport abuse
  • dealing with bullies
    Bullies become bold when they feel like the strongest kid on the block isn't watching. At the moment, the "strongest kid" cares more about being liked than respected, so the bullies have no fear.

    My guess is that our president never had to deal with bullies growing up. Either that, or he didn't learn anything from the experience.
    By Mattlanta @ 04/10/09 11:20:35 AMreport abuse
  • N.Korea is not a threat...
    Since when can a 3rd world country bring America to its knees? (N.Korea,Iran,Afghanistan) these countries do not threaten America. They have no force to invade America. The Soviets were 1000 times more powerful than these small time nations...did America invade? Nope. Why? the Soviets could retaliate on American soil. The same goes for China today. China has the man power to attack America on America soil even invade mainland America. Therefore America plays nice with them. Guys lets get the brains turned on. You're being tricked because the govt wants you to remain paranoid and to perceive a threat so it has an excuse to expand and make people more dependent on govt. Neal INSISTS on getting this stuff wrong every single day. He supports neo-con, anti-conservative foreign policy then complains about spending. It must be one or the other. Fiscal conservatism is the OPPOSITE of the adventure seeking, bankrupting, leftist, paternalist neo-con foreign policy we see taking place now. Think back to the Romans who spread their empire too thin around the planet with a 'police the world' mentality then could not afford to pay their soldiers as the Visogoths and Franks invaded over the years (sound familiar with the Mexican border?)and brought Rome down. Guys America's is militarily involved in 150 countries around the world (empire anyone?) and building on 11 trillion dollar debt to keep that up...why not start taking care of home first rather than this paternalistic liberal world police mentality? Its conservatives (real conservatives) who respect the individual and responsibility. Liberals/leftists are the ones who try to tell people how to live and threaten you with force if you don't conform. Stop drinking the neo-con cool-aid.
    By Red Leader @ 04/10/09 11:19:10 AMreport abuse
  • Weakness
    This makes me furious, no scratch that, this is beyond furious. What has happened to America? Who are these people running my country? All we had to do was shoot down North Korea's missile. It would of sent a clear message: If you want some, come and get it. The 3rd Marine Division is just waiting in Japan for the chance. Next, Iran, let Israel handle it, billions in foreign aid and decades of alliance demand it. Joe Biden, who are you to tell Israel what to do? Pirates, pirates?!?! This is what you do. Count up the pirates, find that many Marine scout snipers and on the count of three, kill them all at once. Then send the SEALS to go pick them up. How's that for policy?
    By Cpl Pugh @ 04/10/09 11:14:54 AMreport abuse
  • Pathetic
    Just read the article in FOX about the failed escape...in true American gov't fashion, they have screwed up yet another situation. If the Navy had helped this Captain, then blew the pirates out of the water, this would all be over now.

    Oh, it happened too fast, they say. Given the personality type of the Captain, could they not have forseen this? Who the hell was keeping watch??? Was anyone???

    Typically, they've dithered and screwed around, now they have MORE pirates on the way, WITH hostage shields. WTF is wrong with this effing picture????? Can't gov't get it right the first time?
    Is this not a job the Fed was actually set up to be doing, instead of taxing and spending us into oblivion???

    Dither, dither, dither, and screw it up some more with more dithering. Morons.
    By I. Moyer @ 04/10/09 11:09:56 AMreport abuse
  • awk and copy left
    You guys need this, it may not help much as you have very little to start with.

    Brain Power: 200 students at a Twickenham (Middlesex) school (England) were helped through their exams this year by eating bananas at breakfast, break, and lunch in a bid to boost their brain power. Research has shown that the potassium-packed fruit can assist learning by making pupils more alert.
    By AP @ 04/10/09 11:08:53 AMreport abuse
  • Bully?
    Who's the bully, Copy? Are you referring to Neal?
    You actually would tolerate the real bullies in this world until they had you strung up by your balls before you started to scream. And then what? Too late, dumbass. BTW - your hubris is sickening.
    By JoeShmoe @ 04/10/09 11:06:49 AMreport abuse
  • the threat of N.Korea(joyce)....
    Joyce if America would pull out of South Korea, then N.Korea would probably become a free market capitalist(read normal) country. If say Russia's army were all over the Mexican border don't you think America would be trying to display some show of strength or force and working on becoming a threat to Russia?
    By Big Africa @ 04/10/09 11:05:06 AMreport abuse
  • Action against the pirates...
    There is a life at stake here, people. Or don't you realize that? The goal is to get this man home alive. Or perhaps you all don't mind if the American military kills an American hostage. Let the scenario play out before you make your assinine comments.

    And, to the poster who can't figure out why the crew of this ship wasn't armed, try learning before you post. The shipping companies don't want guns on their cargo ships out of fear the discharge from the gun, or a stray bullet, might ignite the cargo they're carrying. Didn't you know that? It was in all the papers. But then that would assume you actually read before you spout.
    By MAL @ 04/10/09 11:02:05 AMreport abuse
  • Pirates
    Our clueless commander-in-chief is making us look like incompetent fools. Send in some SEALs and eliminate those bastards PRESBO. No negotiation...elimination!
    By Gary @ 04/10/09 10:58:41 AMreport abuse
  • cowering?
    Neal, you've been hammering away at our (lack of) response to North Korea's failed missile test with a series of questions and carefully worded statements but to say we are cowering is a complete and utter lie that cannot be supported or justified. When did our strength end exactly? The day L'il Kim's l'il missile splashed into the ocean? Is that the moment we went from strong to cowering? Hogwash.

    Republicans -- once strong -- now cowering. There, does typing it make it true?
    By Gavin Volaire @ 04/10/09 10:57:14 AMreport abuse
  • PIrates
    Some of these comments are interesting! I am a retired Naval Officer and from what I know of the assets on hand, a rescue right now would be difficult. USS Boxer is on the way, will be there soon, and that is where the assets to deal with this situation are. And I was the Combat Systems Officer on one of Boxers sister ships, so I've got a pretty good idea of what Boxer has available. USS Bainbridge is there to watch and make sure the pirates don't get away.

    While I am one of those who say PresBO's job performance is unsat so far, up to this point, he is doing the right thing with the pirate situation.
    By Ramblinwreck @ 04/10/09 10:56:14 AMreport abuse
  • Its not America's place...
    ...to tell other countries what to do in their own internal affairs. Unless you want North Korea and Iran telling America what to do with its weapons. America's foreign policy is nonsensical empire mentality. Why would America get to tell other countries where and when to test weapons while America is testing their weapons in other people's countries and even carry out under the cover military operations against the will of the government's in question. Sorry there's just no outrage here. Just other countries acting the way America does.
    By Big Africa @ 04/10/09 10:48:24 AMreport abuse
  • Copyleft
    Once again, twitter, you lost the point on this one. Israel is a country WE created and placed those people in. It's our moral obligation. You wouldn't understand that, because you're too busy admiring Obama's picture in the bathroom.
    By LiberalHater @ 04/10/09 10:46:58 AMreport abuse
  • reach us
    Why do some here keep saying they are no danger to us when that missile is supposedly capable of reaching Hawaii? Do you not count them as part of our nation?
    By Joyce M/Blythe @ 04/10/09 10:44:07 AMreport abuse
  • Hillary Luaghing at the piracy
    What piece of work with a laugh at this situation I don't think it is time to be laughing you weak piece of work!!!!!!
    We haven't had you guys in there for 90 days and you want make a joke of our way life
    By Jon Emmorey @ 04/10/09 10:42:29 AMreport abuse
  • Navy most likely had to wait for clearance from the White House.
    Nobody has ever been attacked because they were to strong or too ready to fight.

    AWK, the PRK has been at war with the USA since 1950, and Iran has been waging war against us since 1978. Your denial of reality doesn't change that, and the USA fighting back isn't the "start" of the war.

    God Bless our soldiers, they eat warriors for breakfast, and God bless the USA.
    By CowboyUp @ 04/10/09 10:39:41 AMreport abuse
  • Awk & copyleft
    Your comments just prove that liberals should not be in charge of anything important. Diplomacy only works when both sides want it. Maybe you guys missed it but the pirates want cash. Until we make them pay dearly for this, they will continue do it. Maybe try reading some history and see what appeasement gets you. If we don't act decisively now, they and others will keep testing America.
    By Dan @ 04/10/09 10:38:50 AMreport abuse
  • One of the Navy's job is pirate hunting
    As a navy vet (I only served four year), and hunting pirates is what we do.

    But the captain is afraid to act because of what happened to the USS Cole Captain.
    By Dean @ 04/10/09 10:38:45 AMreport abuse
  • AWK your an idiot
    So when Iran takes out Isreal, N.Korea takes out Hawaii, and the pirates kill inocent people, maybe we could just offer them a sandwich, sit down with them and discuss this like human beings and maybe they will play nice then. Your libs have all the answeres until your fantasy world shatters because af reality. You my friend are a grade A moron.
    By SF @ 04/10/09 10:38:08 AMreport abuse
  • you snooze you lose
    What a perfect opportunity to blast those Somali bastards all the way to hell. I would have enjoyed watching the footage over and over and over.
    By stepcousin @ 04/10/09 10:35:05 AMreport abuse
  • INTELLIGENCE LOST!
    While the FBI and Navy were negotiating with the pirates, they took their eye off the 'ball' and missed an opprotunity to end this.

    Probably waiting for 'the intelligent adult in charge' to give them their orders.
    By John Wayne @ 04/10/09 10:33:17 AMreport abuse
  • Intelligent?
    Hardly. Its completely foolish. One of the biggest problems of people on the left is to ignore critical long term implications for supposed short term gain.

    North Korea may not be a threat today to us but give them the right amount of time to develop their weapons and to continue to test them, then either NK or whoever they chose to sell those weapons will be a very real threat.

    Iran? Iran wants nuclear weapons. No amount of money can deter the hatred and fanaticism in that country. Once they have the weapons it is game over and they are almost there.

    Every article I have read about the pirates which has referenced anyone who is an expert in combating piracy has NOT supported paying ransoms. Negotiate fine to buy the time to take them out at the right moment, but ALL said that one of the reasons piracy is so bad now is because of all the countries who have paid these ransoms. Perserve human life? Maybe that guy will survive but what about all the hundreds more ships and crews which will be taken hostage in the future? What happens when they realize they don't need to keep the crews anymore to get their ransom?

    Man, sure glad we have such intelligent leadership....
    By Matt @ 04/10/09 10:32:28 AMreport abuse
  • more nonsense....
    Talk about selective outrage and memory. What exactly have we ever done about North Korea firing rockets? When they announced they were arming themselves to defend against us and then proceeded to fire them at will in tests the prior administration didn't do jack and Boortz didn't say a freakin word about the Pres making us look weak. Wonder whay that is? What exactly should we be doing about the pirates? Hey it would be easy enough to blast their little dingy out the water but when the hostage gets killed people here will be saying POTUS killed an American. This is just more of Boortz nonsense where the party affiliation is what drives the opinion. It has become laughable.
    By Todd @ 04/10/09 10:27:58 AMreport abuse
  • A failed president
    The Constitution specifies the duties and responsibilities of the President. They are actually very few. The Founding Fathers designed it that way.
    However, chief among those responsibilities was to "Defend and Protect" this nation. But der Fuerher can't be troubled by external threats, he's too busy "fixing" the economy, healthcare, education, distribution of wealth, America's image, blah, blah, blah.........
    By Carlos @ 04/10/09 10:27:38 AMreport abuse
  • Piracy and USMC
    We know the USMC's policy on piracy...worked then...works now.
    By jabster @ 04/10/09 10:26:31 AMreport abuse
  • Piracy issue
    Maybe the way to deal with this piracy issue is to announce that a carpet-bombing campaign will take place along the coastline of Somalia unless the hostages and ships are released. A 24-hour notice is given and those multi-million dollar mansions, bought on stolen money, are reduced to rubble.

    And I'm all in favor of changing international law to allow ships to arm themselves and blow these pirates back into the story books.
    By Jack Smythe @ 04/10/09 10:24:00 AMreport abuse
  • Weakness
    Obama has effectively gelded the former United States. This in the face of multiple determined, irrational enemies. God help us all.
    By FoxyRob @ 04/10/09 10:22:57 AMreport abuse
  • Diversion
    What if all of this is an Islamic diversion... to divert US military attention and resources... it seems to be working. Maybe it's a test for PBHO... to see what he's made of, or it could just be a big coincidence that this has happened and reveals information to those who would benefit from knowing how the new president handles high pressure situations.

    It's interesting how almost immediately after Bush took office he was faced with the 9/11 tragedy's. All of the media criticism that followed how he handled everything - while it was happening. The media chosen and elected prince of USA is now faced with horrific decisions... we're not really hearing anything though. Interesting... I guess they thought that once PBHO took office, there would be a halt to all of the anti-USA activities worldwide... WORLD PEACE would immediately follow.

    Oh, well... surprise! It's a cruel, desperate, angry world. We priviledged Americans - US residents - need to be prepared to wake up to the realities of the rest of the world. It's a shame that one of the most naive Americans around is in the driver's seat. He seems to have no clue.
    By RCT @ 04/10/09 10:22:08 AMreport abuse
  • Intelligence?
    Yea, let's talk nice with people who want us dead after they lie to get out money. It is about money, we earn it-they want to steal it.
    You may call it intelligent, I call it naive
    By anonymous @ 04/10/09 10:17:17 AMreport abuse
  • Pirates
    Maybe we should attack them with harsh language, or better yet, PBO could tell them to stop or they will be denounced. That may not be wise. It would hurt their feelings and may not be fair.
    By BW @ 04/10/09 10:17:06 AMreport abuse
  • wife
    I forgot to say- I feel so terrible for that poor man's wife. She must be beside herself with worry. If I was her, I'd be on every talk show and news show in America to point my finger at his inept ass.
    By Pining for Thomas Jefferson @ 04/10/09 10:14:25 AMreport abuse
  • Pirates - Har...
    So, 4 bad guys with machine guns board a ship with 20 some guys with no weapons besides a hose.

    Since the boat knew where it was going, why not get a couple guys on board with superior fire power and blow the pirates away?
    The pirates would not have gotten on board and would deter future attacks.

    A no brainer (for me).

    All the attacks like this and nobody has thought it might be a good idea to put some security on board? Pretty dumb.

    Fox said something like, why didn't the pirates mow the crew down?
    The pirates don't want the crew or the cargo - they want the ransom money and they have always gotten it and will get it again. I doubt they could even pilot the boat much less unload it.
    By Marty @ 04/10/09 10:13:22 AMreport abuse
  • Does "AWK" stand for "A Wimpy Kid"?
    It's not WAR WAR WAR... it is called peace through strength. As long as the bullies don't fear retribution, they'll keep on bullying. Start making them shark food and maybe they'll find another line of work.
    By marco @ 04/10/09 10:11:48 AMreport abuse
  • wuss in chief
    I was just a kid in grade school when Carter was in office so it's mostly memories of gas lines and the nightly hostage updates on the news. I do remember the general feeling of angst that was prevalent then and that feeling is back in spades. How in the hell did people make it through those 4 awful years with their nerves intact? Maybe it's time to click on one of those cheap valium emails- being heavily medicated seems like the most painless option.
    By Monica @ 04/10/09 10:10:47 AMreport abuse
  • Pirates
    I don't understand why we aren't doing anything there? Don't we have navy seals that train for this stuff? This guy should have been saved by now. But what do you expect with this weak appeasing president of ours. Now we are sending FBI negotiators? THIS IS INSANE!
    By Stephen @ 04/10/09 10:10:16 AMreport abuse
  • Strength? Weakness?...
    Or, better than both, INTELLIGENCE?

    The intelligent response to North Korea's latest cry for attention? Ignore it; they're not a threat.

    The intelligent way to handle Iran? Diplomacy first, bullying and threats as a last resort. If Israel wants to start a fight, that's their problem... not ours.

    The intelligent response to the piracy incident? Exactly what we're doing; deploy the Navy and FBI, attempt negotiation first, shoot only if necessary. Protecting innocent lives is more important than blowing stuff up.

    Isn't it a refreshing change to have an intelligent adult in charge, rather than a swaggering bully who's obsessed with maintaining a "tough guy" image at the expense of actually accomplishing anything?
    By Copyleft @ 04/10/09 10:03:11 AMreport abuse
  • Without a doubt...Weakness
    As bad as I hate to say it, we are going to have to have another 9/11 before our beloved government decides we had better tighten up! With everything going on all over the world, we decide it’s time to tell everyone “We are putting our guard down, take your best shot!” Good work Team Obama! We love you like an ulcer.
    By Alex @ 04/10/09 09:59:26 AMreport abuse
  • Poor B*stard
    The man escaped, and the Navy did nothing to help...I gotta stop reading this site before I have my coffee. This story is really, truly depressing. This nation has gone wimp.

    Well, a fairly common thought in the Pagan Community is that the world as we know it is coming to an end in 2012. I'm thinking if it's not already here, then this mess certainly heralds its coming. God help us all.
    By I. Moyer @ 04/10/09 09:54:14 AMreport abuse
  • Pirates...uuuhhhh...
    As a 19 year (and counting) navy vet, the fact that we are even asking the question, "Who can stop the Pirates?" (as seen on Fox News front page) makes me CRAZY!!! Pirates...hummm...who could possible deal pirates...if only we had a military branch that was suited to this type of work...Turn the Navy/Marine Corps team loose and let us do what we do. It's really not that hard...oh wait, I forgot we have to ask the UN if it's OK. I guess that makes my decision at the 20 year mark pretty easy.
    By Low 5 Joe @ 04/10/09 09:53:01 AMreport abuse
  • More wars! More Wars! More Wars!
    Yeah, let's go have some more wars! Attack Iran! Bomb Pyongyang! Nuke Somalia! Police the world! God bless the warriors! USA! USA! USA!
    By AWK 829 @ 04/10/09 09:35:12 AMreport abuse
  • Agree, except for the last one.
    Hey I agree with you on the first three. But don't blast the U.S. Navy for not trying to help. I just pray to God every night that we make it through the next four years without a lot of damage.
    By Michael @ 04/10/09 09:35:09 AMreport abuse
  • Why didn't they shoot?
    Neal said, "Perhaps the American Captain thought that when he was out of the pirate's boat the Navy would blow them away."

    Exactly. Why didn't that happen? Did the Navy Captain have to ask permission to blow the tiny pirate boat to smithereens once the American was clear? What were the rules of engagement? Did the Navy have to ask permission from DC, thus giving the pirates time to recapture the American?
    By Hube Schrauber @ 04/10/09 09:33:09 AMreport abuse
  • Like Jimmy Carter?
    Remember he was afraind to do anything with the hostages Iran had because "someone might get hurt"
    By mharrell @ 04/10/09 09:25:46 AMreport abuse
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