Video: Rush vs Powell
posted at 11:00 am on December 16, 2008 by Ed Morrissey
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Rush Limbaugh counts himself flattered and amazed that so much attention comes his way from supposedly Republican reformers like Colin Powell, but also just a little confused. Rush wonders which person supports big-tent Republicanism best — the conservative talk-show host who supported the moderate presidential candidate, or the moderate who wants conservatives like Rush drummed out of the party? (via Matt Lewis)
For someone who supposedly wants to promote tolerance, Powell seems pretty intolerant of dissent. And let’s make one point very, very clear: when the Republicans actually nominated a moderate for their candidate, fellow “moderates” like Powell left the party anyway. If Powell want to support Republican big-tent efforts, they need to stop going running away when a big-tenter runs for office.
If the GOP wants to win governing majorities again, they will have to find ways to make their message relevant to the majority. That will never happen with purity purges, which are ideologically satisfying but a quick path to a generation out of power. Rush knew that, which is why he supported John McCain in the general election, and why he supports Republicans at election time. Powell apparently hasn’t learned that much about politics as yet, which is why he doesn’t support Republicans at election time but feels himself enough of an authority to speak on party unity.
Who should Republicans keep — Powell or Rush? We should find ways to keep both and settle on core principles that unite the disparate conservative cliques, just as Ronald Reagan did. If we have to choose, however, the choice is easy. I’d rather keep the Republican.
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Do we have to choose?
Keith_Indy on December 16, 2008 at 11:02 AM
Why would Powell be called a Republican? He voted for a Dem for President.
With all the power that is vested in me, I hereby excommunicate him from the Republican Party.
faraway on December 16, 2008 at 11:03 AM
I will go with Rush. Collin Powell is into putting his finger up, to see which way the political winds are blowing.
I have not seen a follow up on the Shoe Thrower?
The BBC is reporting the Shoe Thrower was beaten in custody.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/middle_east/7785338.stm
Dr Evil on December 16, 2008 at 11:04 AM
I definitely would keep Rush. But then I lost respect for Powell after the Armitage/Plame situation. It’s hard to even care about his opinion after that dishonesty.
Rose on December 16, 2008 at 11:06 AM
If by supported you mean said that he would cause the destruction of the Republican party..then yes. Yes he did support McCain.
crr6 on December 16, 2008 at 11:07 AM
Powell comes away from the exchange the loser both intellectually and professionally. His opinion is free of logic, for which Rush quite reasonably roasts him. And his attack on Rush in the first place is just stupid, which seems to be Powell’s intellectual level.
Rush’s rejoinder is devastating: that John McCain looks like the very embodiment of what Powell and the liberal RINOs claim to want in the GOP, and yet Powell and several other once-notable Republicans supported a socialist liberal Democrat instead.
Rush’s other suggestion, that race seems to be the missing ingredient in Powell’s argument, is also a major blow to Powell’s credibility, and it’s right on the mark. Powell chose the color of his skin, and not the content of his character.
Jaibones on December 16, 2008 at 11:08 AM
The BBC is reporting the Shoe Thrower was beaten in custody.
On the orders of Darth Cheney himself, no doubt.
As for Powell, if he is supposed to be the smartest guy in the room, ask him why he voted for the most inexperienced noob ever to run for POTUS. Eh, forget it, we already know the reason.
Bishop on December 16, 2008 at 11:08 AM
So moved…so let it be.
Jaibones on December 16, 2008 at 11:09 AM
Powell needs to be called to the carpet, but he won’t take that interview. Just the friendly confines of a left friendly enviroment will he be interviewed about Republicans.
Theworldisnotenough on December 16, 2008 at 11:09 AM
Colon Powell was a Republican??
Whoaaaa; where have I been?
And franky, regarding Mr. Powell, I was reading this headline earlier today:
Colonoscopies Miss Many Cancers, Study Finds
So, as I’ve lost all faith in the man, F him… ;-)
Shivas Irons on December 16, 2008 at 11:09 AM
In no way shape or form can Powell claim to represent conservatives or Republicans. There is no way in h*ll that either could have ever voted for Barack Obama.
Dr. Evil
I hope he WAS beaten in custody. He deserves much worse. He is a national embarrassment to Iraqis. They should be calling to have him tried and put away for a very long time.
JAM on December 16, 2008 at 11:09 AM
Not just that.. but I’m confused as to why Powell every became a Republican to begin with. He doesn’t support the social cons. (obviously), doesn’t support people like McCain on foreign policy, and doesn’t strike me as a small gov’t, low tax guy. It would be nice if someone asked Powell which policy positions actually drew him to the Republican Party in the first place. I think that he’d probably have a hard time answering that.
Illinidiva on December 16, 2008 at 11:10 AM
RINO or Rush?
RINO or Rush?
RINO or Rush?
Wow what a tough choice, pretend or real? The RINO strategy has worked so well for the last 6 years.
How could this even be a topic for discussion?
CrazyGene on December 16, 2008 at 11:10 AM
Powell’s still p*st off because Rush told his audience that Powell “defected” to Obama because of his race and not his (Powells) political ideology. Powell was/is nothing but a closet liberal with a conflicting allegiance to our military.
Rovin on December 16, 2008 at 11:10 AM
Is this even a choice after the pathetic way Powell behaved during election? I can understand if he wanted to vote for the Bambi, or even his endorsement, but to go out of his way to slander Palin a and then Rush, along with making false alegations regarding what Palin said was beyond the pale. Enough with people like him already!
Dritanian on December 16, 2008 at 11:10 AM
We should keep Rush.
If you hadn’t noticed, Powell left. There’s nothing there to keep. Just a man who sees race, and only race, as the primary qualification for any appointment.
BKennedy on December 16, 2008 at 11:11 AM
Powell didn’t lift a finger to defend President Bush against the vast array of obvious lies that the Democrats and the media were throwing at President Bush.
Powell could have made a difference, but chose not to.
Instead, he allowed our Commander in Chief, during a time of war, to have his integrity dragged through the mud.
Powell’s all about Colin Powell and what pleases the media. And what doesn’t please the media is any opposition to the absolutely worthless Democrat Party, so what can Powell offer the Republicans?
The chance to be the Donkey Junior Party? Whoopee.
NoDonkey on December 16, 2008 at 11:11 AM
Rush, period. It’s idiots like Powell that have lost the Republicans the last few elections. Moderates and RINO
s are a bane upon America, almost as bad as far left wack job Liberals. Believing all this hooy on Global Warming and Amnesty, geez… Powell is a traitor and I doubt he was ever really a Conservative. Rush is my hero and one of the few TRUE voices left for real small town Conservatives. We do NOT need nor do I want a “big tent” if it includes tools of the MSM like Powell and McCain and most of our so called “leaders” in Congress… If we had more in our party that followed Rush we would win in LANDSLIDES and have real control of our Courts and Congress. Wimps and Wussies who want the center really want surrender of principals and morals and values and AMERICAN PRIDE. Political Correctness is killing America as are the idiots who vote for “progressives”. A far left Liberal hack by any other name is still Anti-America… Powell fits that definition in my book.
Mark Garnett on December 16, 2008 at 11:12 AM
Seconded, motion carried, end of story……..
Rovin on December 16, 2008 at 11:14 AM
The best argument is the one where the Republicans chose a very moderate candidate, pro military, huge experience…and Powell turned his back on him for an unproven, rookie, with little use for the military…gee, I wonder why…
right2bright on December 16, 2008 at 11:14 AM
I have always admired Mr. Powell and it saddened me when he jumped ship on President Bush, especially if you read his book. You are just left with the impression that he is a ultra conservative guy, but with his support of The One, it just makes you wonder. Why should I turn my back on Rush? He seems to be the only one who is in touch with true conservatives and he is funny as hell! I respect you Mr. Powell but it is time for you to get put to pasture my friend.
Texas Dude on December 16, 2008 at 11:14 AM
Fuck Powell.
Drum on December 16, 2008 at 11:14 AM
With all the power that is vested in me, I hereby excommunicate him from the Republican Party.
faraway on December 16, 2008 at 11:03 AM
If you ever try and usurp my power again, I will have you stretched on the rack AND excommunicated.
Bishop on December 16, 2008 at 11:15 AM
The only reason Powell ever became a Republican in the first place is most likely b/c the military is mostly Rep. and it was a totally politically motivated way to show that he is indeed “one of the boys”.
All about saying and doing and looking like you are playing the game. Just like Obama. He must see alot of himself in Obama.
He got sick of the Uncle Tom label, so when it didn’t cost him anything politically, he threw his hat in w/the black guy. Pathetic
JAM on December 16, 2008 at 11:15 AM
Powell is only as intolerant of dissent as most Republicans.
He’s been called a traitor, it’s been suggested he “go home and do the right thing,” he’s been called a Democrat. Personally I think he effed up by speaking out so in favor of the opposition rather than offering similar concerns about McCain that were being posited by many Republicans.
He has dedicated his life to service of this country and as a cabinet member. That deserves some respect. His opinions do not define his character.
It was a shock to hear him dissent so strongly. It’s an equal shock to see him cast away so readily.
Joe Lieberman is not a Republican. Colin Powell is not a Democrat.
***
Cancer is not a joking matter. **** you.
The Race Card on December 16, 2008 at 11:16 AM
I saw Powell speak at an event a couple of months ago. What a fraud. He’s making big speaking fees these days, telling groups about how “cool” it was to have his own 757 (as SOS), meet with Gorbachev (for Reagan) etc. Everything this guy has to talk about came about from a “BIG TENT” Republican party giving him the opportunity.
And he endorses the most liberal candidate in the past 50 years over a decorated, war-hero, moderate Republican.
Mr. Powell. Just shut up.
Sugar Land on December 16, 2008 at 11:17 AM
Powell isn’t a Conservative or a Republican and his association with the party has been opportunistic for him, with zero corresponding benefit to the party. His support for Obama should end this association. Rush is not a mouthpiece for the Republican party either, but he is for Conservatives. Clearly Rush is indispensable in getting out the Conservative message, and that 50 million times more important than anything Powell can do for us.
echosyst on December 16, 2008 at 11:17 AM
Powell is a hand-wringing bureaucrat, a typical liberal (he certainly isn’t a conservative) who worries about world opinion and who, for all intents and purposes, walked out on his country in a time of crisis. His views are both meritless and inconsequential imo.
beachgirlusa on December 16, 2008 at 11:17 AM
You’re conveniently ignoring the history of this past election. Many moderate Republicans supported McCain in the primaries and in the general election, but it was conservative talk radio hosts and religious figures who threatened to stay home or vote third party. It was only upon the reluctant selection of a substandard – but ultraconservative – VP nominee by McCain that this situation was reversed. The same people who complain about Powell now were withholding their support from the party’s nominee just three and a half months ago.
Big S on December 16, 2008 at 11:18 AM
I’ve never admired Powell. It’s his type that is ruining the country.
Drum on December 16, 2008 at 11:18 AM
Exactly.
Drum on December 16, 2008 at 11:19 AM
I’m keeping Rush!
Oink on December 16, 2008 at 11:20 AM
Powell and Armitage should have stepped forward in the whole idiotic Plame thing and taken responsibility for the non-crime. He ceased to have any integrity after that
clnurnberg on December 16, 2008 at 11:21 AM
Is the soda and Powell story designed to keep Obama and Blago out of the news?
JiangxiDad on December 16, 2008 at 11:21 AM
Powell is the problem……….
Seven Percent Solution on December 16, 2008 at 11:21 AM
lol.
Whatever Colin Powell is, one thing he ISN’T is a conservative.
And if the Republican party isn’t the party of conservatism, what is it? The Dems punching bag?
notagool on December 16, 2008 at 11:22 AM
Iraqi custody. It appears that the US never had him.
Count to 10 on December 16, 2008 at 11:22 AM
This is an easy one, Rush. Powell is what is wrong with the party.
Hammerhead on December 16, 2008 at 11:22 AM
Edna Mode: Is this even a question??
Darksean on December 16, 2008 at 11:23 AM
Adios Colon Powell…Pendejo;
You’re an embarrassment;
Goodby, good luck;
Good riddence;
Get lost;
Go jump in the bay;
Take a hike;
So long;
See ya;
Don’t let the door hit you on the way out;
Ta-ta;
Don’t forget to put the dog out;
Hasta la vista baby;
Drive safely;
Have a nice day;
And my regards to you and the horse you rode in on;
Turn off the lights when you leave;
I’m sorry it had to come to this;
Come back and see me sometime;
Write if you feel like it;
Leave the key under the mat;
Don’t leave mad;
Sorry it didn’t work out;
But you know how things are;
Win a few lose a few;
Welcome to the socialist party;
byteshredder on December 16, 2008 at 11:23 AM
So many reasons to dislike Powell, where does one begin? Oh, I know! Trash-talking the former running mate after formally endorsing and voting for the Dem, who was the opposite of all that you claimed to stand for. Not to mention being a coward, a traitor to the President who appointed you to his Cabinet, and a liar on top of all that.
chunderroad on December 16, 2008 at 11:23 AM
“It was only upon the reluctant selection of a substandard – but ultraconservative – VP nominee by McCain that this situation was reversed. The same people who complain about Powell now were withholding their support from the party’s nominee just three and a half months ago.”
Once McCain was nominated I supported him from the start – because I despise anyone and anything having to do with the Democrat Party.
Substandard? Compared to who, exactly? The woefully inexperienced, completely unaccomplished and likely corrupt Barack Obama? Complete joke/clown act Joe Biden, who has been wrong about everything his entire career and also who has accomplished nothing in the Senate other than running his stupid mouth?
Please explain how a woman with 15 years of experience in local and state politics pales in comparison to such towering figures such as Barack Obama and Joe Biden.
NoDonkey on December 16, 2008 at 11:24 AM
Colonic is untrustworthy. I can’t remember the author of a story I read about Powell, buut the author basicly laid out his entire military career and the ins and outs of his meteoric climb to the Joint Chiefs. One theme that was unavoidably apparent all through the story was that Powell though very very good as a soldier, was the consumate polititian over and above all. I couldn’t help but also get the unspoken inferance that he’s a classic opportunist as well. No, Colonic is vying for some job here, and lubricating Obama’s tool is just one of many in Colonic’s repetoir.
44Magnum on December 16, 2008 at 11:24 AM
As far as the “Big Tent” stuff goes, I think the GOP should focus on enlightening the folks (and reminding the rest) that as the party of smaller government and states’ rights, the GOP is AGAINST Roe v. Wade as we’re against any other issue that takes rights away from individual states and makes them Federal issues.
We all have our personal beliefs regarding the ACT of abortion, but Roe v. Wade is a legal issue and if it were overturned, abortion would not suddenly become illegal. It would be up to every state as it CURRENTLY is with the same-sex marriage issue.
As GOP’s, we have to focus on the legal/constitutional issue of abortion and not the moral issue. Take care of the morality at home and at church.
I think even Republicans have lost sight of what the issue is all about.
Oink on December 16, 2008 at 11:26 AM
Who is that? The guy who served under the last three Republican Presidents, or this guy:
Big S on December 16, 2008 at 11:26 AM
Cancer is not a joking matter. **** you. –
Race Card
I’ve got multiple myeloma, “Race Card”.
Blow me.
Fuck Powell; a man who claimed all the views of John McCain but voted for Obama, amongst many things, including the lamest “Doctrine” ever promulgated. That he is lauded for “creating” a doctrine that reads that the only time one should go into war is when we have overwhelming troop dominance, etc, is just silly. As if that is so possible all the time. I wonder if he’d be a good general for Britian during WWII? What a joke the man is, Mr. Race Card.
Your play.
Shivas Irons on December 16, 2008 at 11:27 AM
I’m sorry for you both. My problems are very small in comparison. Let’s not turn on each other.
Oink on December 16, 2008 at 11:29 AM
I haven’t had any respect for Powell since his idiotic advice during the first Gulf War. After seeing what a fool he was then, I couldn’t figure out how he ever got to be the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs and have not been able to understand how he got any positions afterwards.
Powell has never made a single decent decision, that I am aware of. In actuality, his decisions seemed to get worse and worse with time. When it finally came out that he allowed the administration and the US to be mired in the Plame fiasco for over a year, I decided that Powell was not only stupid and incompetent, but nasty, hateful, and without a care for the US. His later support for the idiot messiah came as no surprise to me, at all, though I am still amazed that he thinks he can call himself a Republican. Affirmative action does very strange things to its beneficiaries, aside from costing the rest of us dearly.
Colin Powell is an example of the Peter Principle cubed. He is a joke, whose best characteristics are his incompetence and stupidity. I think that Powell is very lucky, however, in that he is too stupid to know what a joke he will be in the history books of the future.
progressoverpeace on December 16, 2008 at 11:29 AM
Rush said it yesterday… Since when has the party listened to him? They have NOT listened to Rush or any of us Conservatives… and… they LOST, LOST and LOST! Let’s see… hummmm, maybe we should listen to RUSH, can’t do any worse.
Mark Garnett on December 16, 2008 at 11:30 AM
This “Republican” disgrace wants more centrists, yet he voted against a “Republican” centrist????? Puhlease.
marklmail on December 16, 2008 at 11:30 AM
Ed,
Hate to say it but Rush and Powell are wrong. If the issue was just Republicanism, Rush has the better answer. But its the wrong question.
The question is how do Republicans get an toe hold in the urban centers of this country? Go look at a county map of the 2008 election results on Google. 85% of the counties, ie country, voted red. If that was how EV’s were counted McCain would be President-elect.
So how does the Republican party get a 15-20% hold of places like LA, Chicago, Atlanta, NYC, Miami? If they can’t figure that out they will remain a minority party forever.
Dr. Dog on December 16, 2008 at 11:30 AM
Rush needs to diet again, we can’t afford to lose him.
jp on December 16, 2008 at 11:31 AM
We should dump the guy who thought about not supporting McCain, but decided to, but keep the guy who actually endorsed McCain’s opponent? That makes 0 sense.
zmdavid on December 16, 2008 at 11:31 AM
I vote for Rush. Mr. Powell, pack up your knives and go.
HawaiiLwyr on December 16, 2008 at 11:31 AM
I have no problem with diversity in the party. As a social moderate myself, I still feel at home in the GOP since it’s the party of fiscal conservatism(Bush 43 and Congressional RINOs notwithstanding).
But Powell does not have the best interest of the GOP at heart and he certainly doesn’t know what’s best for the conservative movement. He’s advocating the same strategy that got us all the bad parts of the Bush Administration as well as the disaster known as the McCain campaign.
If he believes being Democrat-lite is recipe for success, then let him go. He can join up with the likes of McCain and Ahnuld and practice their own brand of Republicanism. Leave the job of rebuilding the party to people like Rush who knows what the hell he’s talking about.
Doughboy on December 16, 2008 at 11:32 AM
destroy the MSM and academia elite?
jp on December 16, 2008 at 11:32 AM
Powell is a 2 faced back-stabber !!!
aniladesai on December 16, 2008 at 11:32 AM
Powell is a fiction of his own political career.
Example: Find one ex military officer who served with Powell who will tell you about his military intellect.
There are none.
Powell was a classic military board room executive.
Say no evil – and blow with the political wind.
Colon.
jake-the-goose on December 16, 2008 at 11:32 AM
This reminds me of the great dialog between Yul Brenner and Anne Baxter from The Ten Commandments
RAMSES I: Remember, my sweet, that you must be wife to the next Pharaoh. You are going to be mine, all mine, like my dog or my horse or my falcon. Only I will love you more and trust you less. You will never do the things to me you would have done to Moses.
I know you, my sweet. You’re a sharp-clawed, treacherous
little peacock. But you’re food for the gods, and I’m going to have all of you.
NEFRETIRI: None of me. Did you think my kiss was a promise of what you’ll have? No, my pompous one. It was to let you know what you will not have. I could never love you.
RAMSES II: Does that matter? You will be my wife. You will come to me whenever I call you, and I will enjoy that
very much. Whether you enjoy it or not is your own affair… but I think you will.
gridlock2 on December 16, 2008 at 11:33 AM
No “Republican” who claims to be a Moderate, should be trusted or listened to if they supported the Socialist/Far-Left candidate over an actual Moderate(McCain).
the MSM should call powell out on the hypocrisy but of course they will not. Atleast his son isn’t an idiot
jp on December 16, 2008 at 11:33 AM
Simple… Preach and Teach Conservatisiam… Make NO appologies, state clearly our values, no middle ground, bold colors, stark differences and the RINSE AND REPEAT, RINSE AND REPEAT… Have a narative and use it all day everyday…
Mark Garnett on December 16, 2008 at 11:34 AM
good question, don’t know if there is an answer. all we can do is stick to our principles, and watch democrat policies destroy areas like detroit.
but detroit still votes democRAT..guess there is no hope for some people.
right4life on December 16, 2008 at 11:36 AM
Rush is no Republican. He is a Conservative. BIG difference.
I will take Rush over Powell anyday.
Repubtallygirl on December 16, 2008 at 11:37 AM
Colin Powell is an opportunistic political coward.
Let’s see…
We nominate a more conservative candidate in 2000 and 2004 and Powell supports. We nominate a moderate candidate and Powell goes running to the other side. Hmmmm, not exactly rocket science here.
jbarkley on December 16, 2008 at 11:38 AM
“Rush needs to diet again, we can’t afford to lose him.”
His problem is that he refuses to exercise, even when he gets thin, he’s unhealthy.
NoDonkey on December 16, 2008 at 11:40 AM
Powell isn’t shy on gall is he?
We’re at a juncture that a conservative party won’t happen without it either.
We can have a world size tent but the guiding principles can’t change regardless of who or how many live there.
Speakup on December 16, 2008 at 11:41 AM
Please enlighten me about which Republican principles Powell believes in?? I’ve always admired the guy personally, but why exactly did he become a Republican to begin with. He doesn’t agree with the Rs. on social or foreign policy. And I think that arguing he is in favor of Republican economic policy is doubtful; he is probably in favor of the constant bailouts, high taxes for the rich, and Barry’s pork projects and nationalized
Illinidiva on December 16, 2008 at 11:41 AM
What I like about Rush is about why I like Sarah Palin.
Notice the demorats are having their Palin moment with Caroline Kennedy.
Rush calls them Washingtonians – I call them Blue Blood Beltway Cocktail socialites that only have their own agenda and not that of the American people.
In short…. I like folksy that lives outside 495
Kini on December 16, 2008 at 11:42 AM
Powell is one of the founding members of the RINO party. OK, he was a great soldier, but so was Weasley Clark. It is disingenuous of him to call himself a Republican. By endorsing Obama, he’s either labeled himself a racist (did it because Obama’s black), or he’s a liberal which is in no descriptive of a Republican.
Powell is trying to tell Republicans that they have to become liberals. Rush is telling them that they have to return to conservatism. The reason Republicans have lost elections, and their way, is because they’ve been acting like liberals. Rush is right as usual.
orlandocajun on December 16, 2008 at 11:44 AM
Agreed. This and the “drinking the Kool-Aid” metaphor are quite macabre.
The Race Card on December 16, 2008 at 11:46 AM
So drop Rush, because he considered not supporting McCain (even though he eventually supported him anyway) and instead keep the guy who endorsed the most liberal candidate to run for the presidency?
Surely you have better logic than that.
Yes, it does, very much so. Of course that doesn’t mean he gets to skate by on his service while saying things that lack common sense.
It was only a shock to people who weren’t paying attention (and since you are shocked that also explains your shock at the angry being shown here). I defended him when people were jumping to conclusions about Powell’s endorsement (before it happened) only because I felt Powell was owed the benefit of doubt.
But I wasn’t surprised when it happened.
Esthier on December 16, 2008 at 11:46 AM
‘Drinking the Kool-Aid’ refers to acid-laced concoctions of the 60’s, not Jonestown. Remember “The Electric Kool-Aid Acid Test”?
progressoverpeace on December 16, 2008 at 11:49 AM
Political Opportunism, Powell wanted to make faster advancement – political moves, he figured out how to make rank in the Army, he has always been a politician. The Democrat Party appears to have been too crowded for him to make speedy advancement politically. I look at Senator James Webb as an example of something similar, he was a Republican and today he is a Democrat… James Webb, also has previous Military Service- Marine Corp. These men didn’t survive and thrive in the Military Environment without having some sharp political skills. Basically they learned early on how the Game was played, and they advanced themselves by choosing the political brand, that could avail them of the fastest path to their goals. I don’t really believe either Powell or Webb, really have what one would describe as Brand Loyalty as much as some personal political ideology. Powell after Black Hawk Down, appeared to be more concerned about the PR aspect that is a (manager-not a leader). Webb rode the wave of anti war movement into his present seat. “Opportunist” ? They don’t appear to shy away from Opportunities, when they present themselves. Maybe that is their attraction to Barack Obama, like recognizes like.
Dr Evil on December 16, 2008 at 11:49 AM
This should be a no-brainer! Rush is our dude!
I can not fathom why republicans for so many years groveled at the feet of Powell. He is an ultra-liberal and never acknowledged nor thank republicans for placing him in such political importance or relevance.
He is infiltrating our party to destroy it. I want to send a message to the RNC: DO NOT invite Powell, Parker, Frum, Noonan, nor any other RINO to our party. I do not want a big tent. We have tried that crap and it has failed for the past two elections embarrassingly and miserably. The RINOs who had their candidate in McCain, jumped ship to vote for the ultra-socialist Obama.
Enough with Powell. Where is the RNC chairman or republican leaders defending Rush? Where are they in lambasting Powell?
jencab on December 16, 2008 at 11:54 AM
I agree with you that Powell was a Republican because it was politically convenient for him to be one to advance in the military and because there was an opening for him to run for President as a Republican in 1996/ 2000. (I think that he was seriously considering that, but his wife nixed the idea). However, I’d like him to actually have to bring up one valid reason why he is actually a Republican and not just be able to state that he is.
Illinidiva on December 16, 2008 at 11:55 AM
According to wiki, it’s both, though, primarily Jonestown.
Generally when someone says, “don’t drink the Kool-Aid,” they mean, don’t just buy what others are selling blindly, not, “don’t take acid.”
Esthier on December 16, 2008 at 11:56 AM
So how does the Republican party get a 15-20% hold of places like LA, Chicago, Atlanta, NYC, Miami? If they can’t figure that out they will remain a minority party forever.
Dr. Dog on December 16, 2008 at 11:30 AM
*
You take a stand on illegal immegration. Show them how illegals HURT and DECREASE their piece of the pie.
marklmail on December 16, 2008 at 11:59 AM
Rush: Conservative, first, last and always.
Powell: Opportunistic political whore.
Hmmm, who to line up behind?
SKYFOX on December 16, 2008 at 12:01 PM
It is sweet stuff with no substance but Dems knock me for defining that way.
Secretary Powell is seen for what he is — inside the beltway. As noted in other threads and by Ed here, he is an insider. Not even a real politician. Impressive.
IlikedAUH2O on December 16, 2008 at 12:02 PM
When anyone says they don’t like social conservatism, they are really saying, they don’t like GOD. God is the big divide in this country. As Ann Coulter’s says in her book Godless, the left is Godless, so they invent their own gods with doctrines of killing babies (foremost doctrine of the left), socialism, sex for everyone with everyone/everything, intolerance to those who disagree with them, darwinian evolution (which takes more faith to believe than Design), man-made global warming (this is really so they can advance abortion and socialism). They vilify anyone who stands against them (e.g., Sarah Palin), and they get people like Powell to try to add an elitist condemnation of social conservatism.
Christian Conservative on December 16, 2008 at 12:04 PM
Of course it could be either, but the phrase, “Don’t drink the Kool-Aid” is much, much older than Jonestown. I have rarely heard that expression used as a warning against killing oneself, but as a caution against joining a crowd that lives in an intellectual fantasy world – ergo the acid reference, deep down. Of course, many people say “For all intensive purposes”, so … to argue what they mean by their actual words is often an exercise in futility.
progressoverpeace on December 16, 2008 at 12:04 PM
I’m from Houston originaly, most Hispanics HATE illegals too… They came here the right way, thru the system or are second generation Americans… Most agree with Conservatives on illegal immigration, at least the friends that I have…
Mark Garnett on December 16, 2008 at 12:05 PM
I’m not all that fond of Rush, but he’s dead right, here. Powell’s become just another of the cocktail conservatives more concerned about their position within the DC-New York elite that with principles of good governance.
irishspy on December 16, 2008 at 12:06 PM
General, DLTDHYOTWO. Oh wait. So what if it hit you? What have you done to help us?
perroviejo on December 16, 2008 at 12:06 PM
Hmmmm…. Is there even a question who is kept in the party??
Rush has been a clear voice for conservative values and Powell, well….he has told us Republicans need to calm down and combine our sheeple herds with the socialists. I suspect Powell doesn’t want to retire yet and is hoping for some sort of job in Obama’s admin. He doesn’t want to wait 4 or 8 years to get another one. What a sellout. I am officially throwing him under the bus.
grif99 on December 16, 2008 at 12:08 PM
Where is the proof of that?
He served and was promoted by a Republican President, that’s about it. The extent of his ‘Republican’ claim.
And he can stop pretending now, nobbody except the dying media is buying that claim.
Sir Napsalot on December 16, 2008 at 12:08 PM
I’m sure that’s true, but until you mentioned it here (and I checked wiki to see their take), I’d never heard of acid in Kool-Aid, and I’d be willing to bet most people my age haven’t either (I’m 26).
Either way, I think the point still works. The whole point is to think for yourself.
Esthier on December 16, 2008 at 12:08 PM
I’m glad you dug up this quote as it saved me the hassle of finding it.
I recall listening to Rush over the summer. He was playing his cards close to the vest, but it was clear to any long time listener that he was doing exactly that: playing. He did not provide a time frame of when he would decide on a candidate and said that it might not be a Republican in order to create suspense and keep people listening. That’s why Rush is #1.
As for Ed’s question
Obviously Rush.
Powell was opportunistic in his choice of parties. That’s not a big sin, in my opinion, and is pretty common for politicians emerging out of the military to do so. I seem to recall that Bob Dole recounted that he also had to make a similar decision when he first ran. Republican voters are more pro-defense and Republican candidates are more likely to run on national security platforms.
In addition, as a black American, Powell would rise to prominence in the Republican party more quickly than he would as a Democrat simply because there are less blacks who run as Republicans. So Powell’s impact as in the GOP is much larger than it would have been in the Dem party. There’s nothing nefarious about that — it’s just pragmatic of him to have done so. However, I think Powell left the GOP a while ago and he did so in a pretty classless way, imho.
Y-not on December 16, 2008 at 12:10 PM
Agreed. But I was just trying to explain to The Race Card why the phrase wasn’t really macabre.
progressoverpeace on December 16, 2008 at 12:11 PM
Oh, and one more thing. Thanks Rush for voicing what millions of your listeners think in the face of the wave of MSM propaganda! I will continue my 24/7 subscription out of gratitude for your stand. (And of course, it helps when we want to quote you here at Hot Air.) You are better than O’Reilly, Hannity and all those who try to compete with you because you are 98+% right! And the left can’t stand it, particularly those inside the beltway. Now if they would just really listen instead of believing the MSM garbage about you, they would have to recant some of the lies they spout against you.
Christian Conservative on December 16, 2008 at 12:12 PM
Powell is an a-hole. Typical of the smarmy Washington politico, he kissed his way up to the top and when it became fashionable, he tore those who helped him apart. He is a disgusting human being and I don’t even know why he is considered a Republican by anyone.
He did wait to endorse Obama for maximum effect and he picked Obama over McCain because of race. This makes him a racist but no one in the MSM would ever accuse him of that.
I’m no great fan of Limbaugh but he does promote ideas that are positive for the Party and the Country. Powell only criticizes.
grdred944 on December 16, 2008 at 12:12 PM
I don’t know how party affiliation is defined in Powell’s home state, but here in Texas it is defined by who you vote for. By that measure, Powell is a democrat, so there is no choice to be made. Powell made it himself.
Vashta.Nerada on December 16, 2008 at 12:13 PM
Therein lies the problem. Everyone that preaches this is talking about one thing. They want more money thrown at them. They will tell you right out that you cannot preach self reliance. They don’t want to hear it. The big cities (and the people that live there)don’t want that. They want more money thrown their way. The only way to make make them vote for you is to promise them stuff.
I may be alone in this, but I would rather stand for principles(small government, rule of law, personal responsibility, etc) and lose, rather than sell my soul for power. Then I would just be a democrat (whether I called myself a republican or not)
Corsair on December 16, 2008 at 12:15 PM
You are not alone! Megadittos!
Christian Conservative on December 16, 2008 at 12:18 PM
Powell is retired military and doesn’t seem to know what it takes to own and run a business, which includes balancing books, creating revenue and the responsibility of employees. Being an officer in the military is a different game, and, while I have great respect for his military accomplishments, would have to say that Rush is more in line with Republican 101 values. I will also always wonder if race played a part in Powell’s decision to back Obama. I hope I am wrong. Both parties have had to deal with their own particular kind of race issues but the Dems have the greatest amount of racial blood and dirt on their hands, yet, try to project themselves as some kind of knight in shining armor. Why the people don’t understand this is beyond me, because if they did we wouldn’t be having as many of the crooked politicians being elected from the predominately minority districts.
DL13 on December 16, 2008 at 12:19 PM
Washingtonians can’t take critical scrutiny.
GWBush, though a progressive and elitist in terms of promoting amnesty for illegals in order to undermine the American middle class towards serfdom, certainly had the balls to take critical scrutiny.
In contrast, Obama is a hollow straw man, and a radical Socialist.
Powell is nothing compared to Eisenhower who was nothing compared to Patton.
Rush has his own self discovered genius. Smart ass elitists can’t stand the fact that Rush comprehends our Zeitgeist. They also can’t allow him to broadcast our “silent majority” American voice. Powell has announced his intentions to wage war against us and is poised to lead the charge, having rattled his saber at Rush.
maverick muse on December 16, 2008 at 12:19 PM
I forgot to add that the big cities are destroying themselves when run by liberals, so I believe that they will eventually learn the need for conservative leaders. If not they will go bankrupt like the states that are run by liberals. Liberalism cannot govern for extended periods of time because they eventually destroy whatever they govern.
Corsair on December 16, 2008 at 12:19 PM
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