Novice

0bama will keep close counsel. But here he was talking to Republican, so it didn't count.

Loose lips sink ships, Obama... remember that.

C'mon, People. What the hell did you expect?

Leaks? Those aren't going to be leaks.

Those are verified data distributions by other means. They're information releases by less than proximate sources. /

This really aggravated me, Bush entrusts in O and then O turns around and tries to make Bush look bad, or more likely tries to make himself look good - presidential and all. What a zero

Reporters will love the O admin. Buy the right person two, maybe three drinks and they can out all the classified programs they want.

May I be the first to suggest a new Obama nickname?

The Sieve.

Freedom of Speeech!
/

Spreading the info around.

According to their needs, of course.

Calling Joe the Plumber, looks like Obama is gonna need you!
/

re: #7 joncelli

Reporters will love the O admin. Buy the right person two, maybe three drinks and they can out all the classified programs they want.

Wrong recreational pharmaceutical, but yeah.

It's gonna be a LONG 4 years.

Before we all get giddy about the perceived leaks that are coming, remember they were able to deep six that Khalidi tape with the LA Times when they had to?

This is a really bad sign.

I want to believe the best because I love my country,

but I think we have elected a bozo.

re: #7 joncelli

Reporters will love the O admin. Buy the right person two, maybe three drinks and they can out all the classified programs they want.

The loyal press will never spill state secrets.
/

re: #14 Nevergiveup

Before we all get giddy about the perceived leaks that are coming, remember they were able to deep six that Khalidi tape with the LA Times when they had to?

So if is about protecting his butt, we're good.

Protecting the US of A? Who knows?

re: #15 Ojoe

This is a really bad sign.

I want to believe the best because I love my country,

but I think we have elected a bozo.

You mean BOzo.

Obama's grasping on to the last chance to validate his job by bashing Bush.

Enjoy it while you can Obama, when Bush is gone it's just you against the world and all it's problems and guess how many of those problems you're going to be able to solve by bashing Bush? Zero.

And we can also trust the O administration to keep classified intelligence information from being leaked? Holy shit, they're going to end up telegraphing every impending US offense / defense move to the enemy.

Somehow I read that as 'Obama's Presidency will piss all over us.'

Either way... good headline.

Such a compromise with Pres. Bush would compromise an even bigger bailout plan for the auto industry, I suppose.

Wait till the factions start covering their asses when things don't go to plan.

it will be ugly.

One problem that Dems face is that they don't have ideas other than vague platitudes. So there is little in the way of a message (other than Hope and Change) to enforce discipline around.

I suspect that 'leaks' will be the method of choice for the Obama presidency for purposes of floating trial balloons for gauging the public response.

"Let's see...I wonder how gun control will go over?...Let's leak a rumor that we're going to make serialized ammunition and exorbitant tax on ammunition part of our campaign to keep kid's safe (in addition to mandatory gun locks in the home). We can always adjust when the pitch forks and torches show up on the front lawn".

re: #8 Silhouette

That a good one, might get traction.

re: #19 docremulac

Eh, they practically blamed WWII on Dubya, so they can certainly blame the next 20-40 years on him.

What are the odds he has a nervous breakdown at some point? Going from leftie constitutional law lecturer to com. organizer to abstaining state senator to U.S. Senate backbencher might qualify you for the model U.N. club, but I think he's going to be compared to Dan Quayle re: deer in the headlights look.

re: #6 turn

This really aggravated me, Bush entrusts in O and then O turns around and tries to make Bush look bad, or more likely tries to make himself look good - presidential and all. What a zero

Ya, if the car bail out doesn't happen during this lame duck administration . . . it will be the first thing the OB will do.

What a tool.

This is obvious disinformation. What they really discussed was how they will divide the world up between them, with the usual cut for the International Zionist Conspirators. Just ask David Duke and Alex Jones.

re: #15 Ojoe

This is a really bad sign.

I want to believe the best because I love my country,

but I think we have elected a bozo.

Not a bozo but a shrewd Chicago political machinist.

Oh boy! Just think the fun with Obama is just beginning.
Heaven preserve the U.S.A because Obama looks to be trying to dismantle it.

"Profesionalism? Propheshunalism?! We don't need no stinking profeshunalizm!"

I saw this earlier- it's just pathetic that the folks who are still running Obama's "campaign" are such mental teenagers. They're like a bunch of gossipy brats, always playing games and looking for new angles.

Well guess what, morons, this is the entire country you're playing with now. And people are going to get tired of this kind of crap quickly.

Too many people voted for the big zero without understanding Chicago politics and without understanding the way that democrats/socialists/leftists work. It's like Code Pink on a huge scale, but without the ridiculous feather boas and hats.
/usually

Barf.

re: #18 Ozark Mountain Daredevil

B^Ozo

ROFLMAO

re: #14 Nevergiveup

In addition, the fact that the "biggest stories" get forgotten soon enough, doesn't really help anything when you are striving for truth., The LA times knew that those that wanted the tape have no leg to stand on, and would move on if they just waited them out.

re: #15 Ojoe

This is a really bad sign.

I want to believe the best because I love my country,

but I think we have elected a bozo.

we white man? (and there is no more racism so I can say that)

re: #24 eschew_obfuscation

I suspect that 'leaks' will be the method of choice for the Obama presidency for purposes of floating trial balloons for gauging the public response.

"Let's see...I wonder how gun control will go over?...Let's leak a rumor that we're going to make serialized ammunition and exorbitant tax on ammunition part of our campaign to keep kid's safe (in addition to mandatory gun locks in the home). We can always adjust when the pitch forks and torches show up on the front lawn".

And when they call us on it, we can deny that any of that was ever a part of our program.

re: #24 eschew_obfuscation

And the assault weapons ban will return within a few months.

re: #24 eschew_obfuscation

I suspect that 'leaks' will be the method of choice for the Obama presidency for purposes of floating trial balloons for gauging the public response.

"Let's see...I wonder how gun control will go over?...Let's leak a rumor that we're going to make serialized ammunition and exorbitant tax on ammunition part of our campaign to keep kid's safe (in addition to mandatory gun locks in the home). We can always adjust when the pitch forks and torches show up on the front lawn".

That's what focus groups are for. Maybe they can bring in Luntz's Dunces™, since he's not busy anymore, and let them spin their stupid dials to decide policy.

If true (and I'm not certain, yet) this is gross stupidity. Someone in the Obama entourage appears to be trying to make "brownie points" with the Press. No government can operate with everything they discuss being public knowledge before any decision can be made. Worse, there is no way to know what's true, and what's someones leaking to force a decision. Obama may find himself losing control of his administration before he ever unpacks his bags at 1600 Pennsylvania Ave.

Here I was feeling somewhat queasy thinking especially poor thoughts in BO's general direction even while he's acting particularly civilized with the Bush's. I should have known he wouldn't let me down. Suspect this cabinet will make Clinton's look like pikers. I can't wait.

re: #40 kenprice

No government can operate with everything they discuss being public knowledge before any decision can be made. Worse, there is no way to know what's true, and what's someones leaking to force a decision.

If that's the case, keep operating this way, 0bama!
;)

The confidence other world leaders will hold with Mr Obama will be inversely proportional to the number of leaks.

Credibility, Mr President.

re: #33 gop_patriot

I saw this earlier- it's just pathetic that the folks who are still running Obama's "campaign" are such mental teenagers. They're like a bunch of gossipy brats, always playing games and looking for new angles.

They are still very afraid of Palin because the media attack is still going.

I just watch Matt Lauer interview her and as she is reciting a long list of thoughtful reasons that she and McCain lost, the summary caption at the bottom reads: "Palin was surprised by election."

I disagree. The wrath of Rahm will descend on anyone guilty of leaking. Count on it.

re: #43 cwnorma

The confidence other world leaders will hold with Mr Obama will be inversely proportional to the number of leaks.

Credibility, Mr President.

Now, now. You've got to remember that he doesn't even begin his on-the-job training until January 20th.

they be leaky for a couple of months. then, you won't know what the hell they're up to.

anybody gotta remedy for raw lungs? guhhh. 3 day nyquil bender and associated hangover.

Again, the fact that Obama has not had to work at an administrative position in a state government is showing itself. Someone at a governor's level would already understand the value of keeping one's mouth closed.

re: #35 WrathofG-d

In addition, the fact that the "biggest stories" get forgotten soon enough, doesn't really help anything when you are striving for truth., The LA times knew that those that wanted the tape have no leg to stand on, and would move on if they just waited them out.

And we should not underestimate these people. First of all they BEAT us. Oh I Know McCain sure didn't help, but still. Obama has some of those ruff tough Chicago thugs around him and also some of the nastiest ex-clinton people. We are in for the fight of our life I think. And we all know how high the stakes are.

Well. Those leaks are dishonorable and, maybe worse in a way, they're impractical. Guess what happens when you betray the confidence of the people who speak with you? They stop being the people who speak with you.

Good move for a president.

I am really starting to dislike this little, little "man" or squirrel as Rush calls him...on a cosmetic note..we are going to see this little twerp turn gray overnite...if he stays away from the color corrector...

re: #33 gop_patriot

Bingo. The probably wore out their copy of the "War Room" documentary about Clinton's 1992 campaign, not to mention their "West Wing" boxed set. It's not all angles, zero-sum campaigning, gotchas, and spinning. A president and a Congress have to actually govern. But that will be hard to explain to kids who are busy removing the W keys from White House computers.

Rush read a CNN poll on Obama saying that 74% of the American people approved of what Obama's done so far. WTF? What HAS he done? I sometimes feel we're sunk.

No WONDER he hated Joe the Plumber!

He's O the Leaker!

re: #3 MrSilverDragon

Loose lips sink ships, Obama... remember that.

O is the one who has those ships in the cross hairs. That is one of his stated missions.

re: #19 docremulac

Obama's grasping on to the last chance to validate his job by bashing Bush.

Enjoy it while you can Obama, when Bush is gone it's just you against the world and all it's problems and guess how many of those problems you're going to be able to solve by bashing Bush? Zero.

You're right however I would wager this won't stop them from bashing Bush, if the MSM repeats it time and time again the left will really associate O problems with Bush. I think it's called projection, oh yeah -

[Link: en.wikipedia.org...]

re: #40 kenprice

Worse, there is no way to know what's true, and what's someones leaking to force a decision.

Witness the leaks about Sarah Palin from members of the McCain campaign.

If it is true, and Bush was trying to make a deal, then Bush was being an idiot.

You don't do a horse trade with a man who does not own a horse.

Obama does not control the democrats, they control him.

That much I am sure of. And who owns the democrats? The far left, Moveon, codepink, and yes even Kos to a lesser degree.

re: #45 jamgarr

I disagree. The wrath of Rahm will descend on anyone guilty of leaking. Count on it.

Most "leakers" do so anonymously.

It is only a matter of time before this nonsense starts burning intelligence sources, compromising operations, and killing people who truly love this country.

All so that those who do not love this country can remain in power.

*SPIT*

This is a really bad sign.

I want to believe the best because I love my country,

but I think weTHEY have elected a bozo.

That's how I figure it... I didn't vote for the idiot. (Wow. Did I just channel a moonbat talking about Bush?) Scary.

Obama's campaign was very light on leaks. I'm not buying the "leakiest ever" stuff.

re: #60 Ozark Mountain Daredevil

Most "leakers" do so anonymously.

And the sugar plum fairey farts rainbows.

re: #53 Ozark Mountain Daredevil

Rush read a CNN poll on Obama saying that 74% of the American people approved of what Obama's done so far. WTF? What HAS he done? I sometimes feel we're sunk.

If what he's done includes staying out of the Senate chamber, I approve.

re: #16 Who Watches the Watchmen?

The loyal press will never spill state secrets.
/

Even with your slash sign I sprayed diet coke on the screen at that one.

I truly believe that there as an informal badge on honor among the MSM to see who can spill what state secrets fastest. Extra points if they manage to get someones life (not their's of course) endangered in the process.

re: #45 jamgarr

I disagree. The wrath of Rahm will descend on anyone guilty of leaking. Count on it.

You beat me to it. I agree with you, and I think that this is partly why Obama chose Emmanuel: to impose discipline and order and be the hatchet man.

re: #20 turn

And we can also trust the O administration to keep classified intelligence information from being leaked? Holy shit, they're going to end up telegraphing every impending US offense / defense move to the enemy.

I am told that the TLA agencies & the Pentagon had very serious problems with Bubba. They will probably be very careful with Zero.

(Now, why couldn't the Secret Service use "Zero"?)

re: #62 PAgirlinNC

Well I was speaking of the country as a whole; I did not vote for Obama.

"We" in the sense that Obama is the President of the whole country, which I hope he really realizes.

re: #53 Ozark Mountain Daredevil

Rush read a CNN poll on Obama saying that 74% of the American people approved of what Obama's done so far. WTF? What HAS he done? I sometimes feel we're sunk.

He's done nothing. Why do you think so many approve?

Oh, they're just so CUTE when they're that age. Those kids will say the dangdest things.

re: #44 Silhouette

Unbelievable.

re: #65 Who Watches the Watchmen?

If what he's done includes staying out of the Senate chamber, I approve.

they approve of the promises to fill tanks, pay mortgages, and heal the world.

re: #66 Izzy Dunne

Bush should have withheld any contact, until O'bama produces a genuine birth certificate.
And frikkin' ANNOUNCE it, too.

Please don't go there, not even as a joke. That was the stupidest rumor.

re: #63 ssn697

Obama's campaign was very light on leaks. I'm not buying the "leakiest ever" stuff.

Key word: campaign.

When it was their agenda on the line, I agree they don't leak when they don't want to.

That is not the leak I knew

Question: were Obama'a aides there at the meeting with Bush, or was it just the two of them? If no one else was there, that means that Obama himself did the leaking, doesn't it?

re: #28 midwestgak

Ya, if the car bail out doesn't happen during this lame duck administration . . . it will be the first thing the OB will do.

What a tool.

Everybody is getting in on this $700 bil handout. I read where Amex was turned into a bank overnight so they can cash in. Imagine when O and the dem congress gets to call the shots on where this money is spent, we really will have huge government bureaucracies spring up, essentially putting people to work for the government O at the taxpayer's expense.

re: #20 turn

And we can also trust the O administration to keep classified intelligence information from being leaked? Holy shit, they're going to end up telegraphing every impending US offense / defense move to the enemy.

Yep. and Uncle Joe told you it would cause a major challenge by foreign powers within 6 months.

Ask yourself, if you were a terrorist, would Obama in the White House make you hesitate to strike?

re: #80 turn

I read where Amex was turned into a bank overnight so they can cash in.

Isn't LGF a bank? I'm pretty sure we are.

re: #31 Wilderstad

Oh boy! Just think the fun with Obama is just beginning.
Heaven preserve the U.S.A because Obama looks to be trying to dismantle it.

If he dismantles the USA, he dismantles his own gravy train. Obviously, I'm missing something here.

re: #70 Ojoe

I know. It's just really sad to think that there are 56 million idiots in this country... I mean, I knew they were out there but - that many?

re: #79 Amy

If no one else was there, that means that Obama himself did the leaking, doesn't it?

Correctomundo!

I agree. Too many egos. Too many second raters.

It won't be leaky when it doesn't suit Obama. He just dissing Bush here and rewarding his friends at the NYT etc.

GM shares hit 65-year low amid liquidity concerns

[Link: www.reuters.com...]

Hey, how are them there warranties feeling about now?

re: #82 Silhouette

Isn't LGF a bank? I'm pretty sure we are.

Why, yes...yes we are!

My window will be open shortly for your deposits ;-)

re: #67 3 wood

Even with your slash sign I sprayed diet coke on the screen at that one.

I truly believe that there as an informal badge on honor among the MSM to see who can spill what state secrets fastest. Extra points if they manage to get someones life (not their's of course) endangered in the process.

How did you know?

Just the other day I was speaking with someone, bragging about some state secrets I'd spilled, and he said, "But did you endanger someone?" And I had to admit I hadn't. So back to the grindstone.

Oh, by the way: They're called 'state secrets' for a reason. Perhaps you should examine the state's role in keeping its collective mouth shut.

Ruh-roh.

Via the Jawa Report, they don't much like The One in Manila these days...

In the first blush of victory, US President-elect Barack Obama accepted congratulations from nine presidents and prime ministers and returned their calls. President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, one of the numerous early callers, was not one of the chosen few.

The favored world leaders were Australian Prime Minister Kevin Rudd, Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper, French President Nicolas Sarkozy, German Chancellor Angela Merkel, Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert, Japanese Prime Minister Taro Aso, Mexican President Felipe Calderon, South Korean President Lee Myung-bak and British Prime Minister Gordon Brown.

All are leaders of democracies known as important allies of the United States. Two are Asians—Aso and Lee; one is leader of the centerpiece of US policy in the Middle East, Olmert of Israel; Calderon heads Mexico, the most strategic US neighbor in Latin America; and the rest are leaders of Europe’s most important democracies.

Apparently, the message Obama's staff sent the Philippines is: We'll get back to you, someday, maybe, when we feel like it.

These telephone chats over the past few days gave a first glimpse into the “world view” of the incoming administration—the countries that mattered to it, the countries Obama have downgraded and the issues that concern it most as he redefines US foreign policy in the post-Bush era.

From the looks of it, the Philippines is not on the Obama radar screen, no matter how our humiliated leaders on the waiting list claim our strategic importance is to the United States in the Asia-Pacific region and our historic ties with Washington.

Obama has barely a couple of years experience as junior senator from Illinois and has only a brushing acquaintance with foreign policy. It’s very likely the Philippines struck him as just a speck on the map.

Ya know, I think they're pissed.

The sidelining of the Arroyo call gave a glimpse of the importance of the Philippines to the United States at a moment of change of administration.

It is clear that the Philippines stands on the outer perimeter of US concerns in world affairs.

The first telephone conversations reveal the Philippines is not within the charmed circles of the Obama administration. It is a leper outside looking in.

It is imperative that Manila should rearrange its priorities vis-à-vis Washington. Obama is not our friend.

Yep, they're pissed.

re: #83 Tappin52

If he dismantles the USA, he dismantles his own gravy train. Obviously, I'm missing something here.

But so too every communist regime ever. They punish the wealth producers and then are surprised that poverty ensues. By definition, a commie ain't that good at logic.

re: #80 turn

Everybody is getting in on this $700 bil handout. I read where Amex was turned into a bank overnight so they can cash in. Imagine when O and the dem congress gets to call the shots on where this money is spent, we really will have huge government bureaucracies spring up, essentially putting people to work for the government O at the taxpayer's expense.

Sorry. I agree with you. :(

BTW, this is not the first secret/classified information that has come out since the handover process started.

Considering that leaking info is an accepted practice by both sides in Washington, has anyone considered that the White House leaked it? Look how bad it is making Obama look right now and what is Obama's camp going to say: No we didn't, the President did. They would look even dumber.

"Senator Obama would be wise to keep close counsel," a top Bush source warned.

I love that line. I predict a lot of "cannibalism" in this administration.

re: #84 PAgirlinNC

"There have always been enormous numbers of silly people."

That's a paraphrase of Winston Churchill's words.

Nothing new, we'll get through this.

So, here you are, a big wig in the DoD. It's your turn to brief George Soros' Sock Puppet.

Just what do you plan to say?

The leak probably came from Obama personally.

How utterly insecure is this guy that he feels the need to leak this sort of thing?

This is NOT a leader, its a chicken.

If Obama can't learn to keep his big yap shut NOBODY is going to tell him anything.

One of these two should never have a security clearance.

re: #82 Silhouette

Isn't LGF a bank? I'm pretty sure we are.

hahahahahahaha oh wait. That was funny until I realized LGF would be acting like every other moonbat graber.

I take it back.

BBL got to get some work done.

The fundamental difference between Barack Obama and John F. Kennedy is that Kennedy spoke softly and carried a big stick, while Brilliant Barack bloviated at the top of his lungs and carried a twig.

re: #35 WrathofG-d

The LA times knew that those that wanted the tape have no leg to stand on, and would move on if they just waited them out.

My guess is they destroyed the tape shortly after they realized how damaging it would be to the Messiah.

Now, if it contained military secrets which might endanger the troops, the LA Times would have run it 24 hours a day.

I'm surprised the zero didn't piss all around the Oval Office to mark 'his' territory.

Does anyone think it's ironic how the candidate who promised change and a new type of government in Washington, free of Washington insiders, has so far surrounded himself, with anything but?

re: #79 Amy

Question: were Obama'a aides there at the meeting with Bush, or was it just the two of them? If no one else was there, that means that Obama himself did the leaking, doesn't it?

Obama shared with his staff, and they leaked it.

Basically if this is true, then Bush tried to make a deal, and Obama shared the details of the possible deal with his staff. They in turn, not knowing how people would think about the deal, leaked it to see what kind iof a reaction it would have. They also wanted to embarrass Bush. If bush was putting a condition on a stimulus package, then he is the bad guy.

re: #60 Ozark Mountain Daredevil

Most "leakers" do so anonymously.

I remember reading about a couple of guys during the Civil War who bought gold, and wanted to be sure the price would go up. They spread a rumor that Lincoln was going to draft 300,000 more men. The rumor spread like wildfire, and it worked! People panicked, and put their money into more stable investments, like gold, which drove the price up.

The source of the rumor was eventually tracked down to these two, and they were arrested, as well as fined for the amount of profit they made.

The funny thing was, at the time, Lincoln was considering drafting 400,000 more people in the army, and the panic caused by the hoax showed him that this was a bad idea.

re: #79 Amy

Question: were Obama'a aides there at the meeting with Bush, or was it just the two of them? If no one else was there, that means that Obama himself did the leaking, doesn't it?

My first thought as well, but it doesn't add up. Who knows.

I think there are two reasons for this. One is simple thuggery from a man unwilling to wait two months to take office. He wants to be President now, not in January. This seems to be a major character trait/flaw that's been exhibited throughout his career - when he can't get something done immediately, he starts getting frustrated and the backbiting begins.

Second is the need for a scapegoat, and Bush is handy. I've heard a sentiment expressed by quite a few people at work and elsewhere, less than a week after the election, that has got to be making Obama nervous. People are wondering why, now that he's been elected, the stock market is still tanking and their 401k's haven't begun to recover yet. Stupid and unrealistic? You bet - it will be months before any sort of meaningful recovery gets underway in the markets. Unexpected? Not at all. People have hung all kinds of unrealistic expectations on an Obama Presidency, including a sort of voodoo-like expectation that the election itself was all that was needed to purge evil from the land and start the milk and honey flowing. Continued thrashing of their retirement funds is starting to make people wonder whether the Emperor is wearing any clothes.

In order to keep these dashed expectations from spilling over and staining his personality cult, Obama needs a high-profile target to re-direct blame onto. Look for a great deal more Bush-bashing even than occurred during the campaign itself, as Obama's emerging failures to deliver on all the items people wrote onto his deliberately blank slate instantly start wearing away at his support.

I bet you won't see too many reports on Obama's approval rating over the next couple of months. Just as he was able to ride a wave of irrational popularity into office by saying and doing nothing, he will now start to be swallowed by a wave of disenchantment while he continues to say and do nothing.

You can write anything you want on a blank slate.

re: #69 unreconstructed rebel

I am told that the TLA agencies & the Pentagon had very serious problems with Bubba. They will probably be very careful with Zero.

(Now, why couldn't the Secret Service use "Zero"?)

Ha Ha .. secret code name Zero.

Secret service agent 1: "What is Zero doing now?"
SSA 2: "Zero"
SSA 1: "Have you seen any activity in Zero's office"
SSA 2: "Zero"
SSA 1: "Do you know what Zero's plans are in that situation?"
SSA 2: "Zero"

Ha

re: #95 Creeping Eruption

Considering that leaking info is an accepted practice by both sides in Washington, has anyone considered that the White House leaked it? Look how bad it is making Obama look right now and what is Obama's camp going to say: No we didn't, the President did. They would look even dumber.

I think the Bush administration's angry reaction suggests otherwise.

Obama has screwed up his first post election presser (classless Nancy Reagan remark) and now he has screwed up his first meeting with his predecessor. Both are easy tasks that Obama should have done successfully without much effort.

It's going to be a long four years.

After 8 years of Bush and 4-8 of Obama, we're going to long for Bill Clinton. Oy vey.
Listen mister we could use a lech like William Clinton again.
Forced to sign welfare reform
Not quite as bad to the unborn
Gee at least he seemed so warm
Those, were, the, days

re: #113 dmays

Obama has screwed up his first post election presser (classless Nancy Reagan remark) and now he has screwed up his first meeting with his predecessor. Both are easy tasks that Obama should have done successfully without much effort.

It's going to be a long four years.

Seems to be a repeating phrase here.

This sounds too much like some disgruntled passive-aggressive current administration worker bee lashing out anonymously at a hated departing boss from the safety of the shadows. I seriously doubt that Obama or His administration will be the source of leaks since His campaign was protected by the very media that was the gleeful co-conspirators in undermining virtually anything and everything Bush tried to do.

Strategic leaks ... don't fall for it for one minute.

re: #91 Steffan

Maybe the Philippines would be more important if they had renewed the bases leases. As it is, Obama's assessment is pretty much correct. The call from the Governor of Guam now takes precedence.

re: #96 monkey den

I love that line. I predict a lot of "cannibalism" in this administration.

Not with Rham Emanuel, he won't.

bbl

re: #53 Ozark Mountain Daredevil

What HAS he done?

He said "hope", "change", and "yes we can".

This go around that was enough. What an empty suit.

Amy,
The drudge story says it was just Bush and Obama.

The two met at the White House in private, without staff.

On another site, a person posted that this wonderful, it shows how transparent the Obama presidency will be vs. the evil Bush who hides all.

Except, if Obama really wanted to be transparent, why not just hold a press conference, or send out a press release. Why pretend that he did not leak it?

from the other Amy

re: #40 kenprice

If true (and I'm not certain, yet) this is gross stupidity. Someone in the Obama entourage appears to be trying to make "brownie points" with the Press. ...

It was a private conversation, so that someone is Obama himself.

Ready on Day One!

re: #79 Amy

Question: were Obama'a aides there at the meeting with Bush, or was it just the two of them? If no one else was there, that means that Obama himself did the leaking, doesn't it?

I heard it was just the two of them ..

re: #45 jamgarr

I disagree. The wrath of Rahm will descend on anyone guilty of leaking. Count on it.

Rahm Emmanuel was notorious for being one of the biggest leakers in the Clinton administration.

re: #53 Ozark Mountain Daredevil

Rush read a CNN poll on Obama saying that 74% of the American people approved of what Obama's done so far. WTF? What HAS he done? I sometimes feel we're sunk.

See my post, above, on how I think this is going to play out. The euphoria seems to be fading fast, at least in my neck of the woods; Some of O's most rabid supporters are starting to wonder why their 401k's haven't recovered back to Dow 14000 levels yet. It's been almost a week since the election, after all.

BOzo and his "wife" flew from Chicago to Washington DC yesterday on separate planes, and she was waiting in the limo when he got off his plane. This guy is so full of himself.

re: #126 Charles

Rahm Emmanuel was notorious for being one of the biggest leakers in the Clinton administration.

But now he's the gatekeeper.

re: #84 PAgirlinNC

I know. It's just really sad to think that there are 56 million idiots in this country... I mean, I knew they were out there but - that many?

Never underestimate the power of stupid people in large groups.

Watching "The Longest Day" on AMC and recalling how Pop Reject (a WWII vet) used to say that it was a good thing that WWII was fought in the 1940's because if we had to fight it today we'd lose. That was meant as a joke thirty years ago, but now I'm not so sure...

Fortunately,for now, there's still a cadre of superlative people in our armed forces, but under BO's inept "leadership" I don't know how much longer many of them will be able to remain.

re: #107 Buck

Obama shared with his staff, and they leaked it.

Basically if this is true, then Bush tried to make a deal, and Obama shared the details of the possible deal with his staff. They in turn, not knowing how people would think about the deal, leaked it to see what kind iof a reaction it would have. They also wanted to embarrass Bush. If bush was putting a condition on a stimulus package, then he is the bad guy.

I think you're right. When I said that Obama did the leaking, I didn't mean that he personally called up the press but that he must have divulged the contents of the conversation to others because he was the only one there besides Bush. And I agree that it was intended to embarrass Bush.

re: #110 SixDegrees

It's called "Snowballing" (Animal Farm reference).

re: #111 turn

Ha Ha .. secret code name Zero.

Secret service agent 1: "What is Zero doing now?"
SSA 2: "Zero"
SSA 1: "Have you seen any activity in Zero's office"
SSA 2: "Zero"
SSA 1: "Do you know what Zero's plans are in that situation?"
SSA 2: "Zero"

Ha

wife of zero's SSA name: less than zero.

re: #119 calcajun

Not with Rham Emanuel, he won't.

particularly with Rham. cannibalizing is his specialty.

Not to say that the approved, strategic leaks won't happen.

re: #109 Noam Chumpski

My first thought as well, but it doesn't add up. Who knows.

Why doesn't it "add up"?

re: #112 Amy

I think the Bush administration's angry reaction suggests otherwise.

I'd do the exact same thing. Leak and then complain with hearty righteous indignation. Obama looks the fool.

"What a wicked web we weave when we practice to deceive". It would behoove Obama to remember that (or his sugar daddy).

By the way, the New York Times stock price set yet another 52 week low, closing at $8.38, a drop of 3.46% in one day.

And I am cheering every inch of their sinking.

re: #122 the other Amy

Except, if Obama really wanted to be transparent, why not just hold a press conference, or send out a press release. Why pretend that he did not leak it?

Because he's a schmuck?

re: #132 Who Watches the Watchmen?

It's called "Snowballing" (Animal Farm reference).

as long as that's not a "Clerks" reference.

? We are the people we have become.

Barry, Michelle, Nancy, Harry, Harold, Rahm etc. were once little children who had not a shred of guile or ruthlessness in them. Then they were educated in our system of education. Don't forget that.

This isn't the first time Bush and Obama talked, and then Obama ran to the press.

They met when Obama was a new Senator waaay back in...a couple of years ago, and Obama told the press that Bush was all smiles and then turned "downright frightening."

"Suddenly it felt as if somebody in a back room had flipped a switch," Obama wrote. "The president's eyes became fixed; his voice took on the agitated, rapid tone of someone neither accustomed to nor welcoming interruption; his easy affability was replaced by an almost messianic certainty. As I watched my mostly Republican Senate colleagues hang on his every word, I was reminded of the dangerous isolation that power can bring, and appreciated the Founders' wisdom in designating a system to keep power in check."

When I quoted from this passage to Bush during an Oval Office interview, the president seemed irritated to learn he had been taken to task by the senator he once counseled.

I thought I was actually showing some kindness," Bush said indignantly. "And out of that he came with this belief?"

The president added with a bit of a scowl: "He doesn't know me very well."

Rahm is a devious thug. As a plotter, he is as transparent as glass. he can not stop himself from bragging, chastising, and attempting to destroy those who disagree with him.

re: #113 dmays

Obama has screwed up his first post election presser (classless Nancy Reagan remark) and now he has screwed up his first meeting with his predecessor. Both are easy tasks that Obama should have done successfully without much effort.

It's going to be a long four years.

Yet again, I'm reminded of McCain's quip that President of the USA is not a job suited to on-the-job training.

Obama has now made several bumbles that anyone with any actual executive political experience would not have. He's still in the steep part of the learning curve.

Meanwhile America's allies are starting to think, "You know, that Cowboy Bush. . .maybe he's not all that bad after all".

There is absolutely no question Obama will make more of these blunders, but hopefully (hope!) they'll occur BEFORE he takes office.

re: #126 Charles

Rahm Emmanuel was notorious for being one of the biggest leakers in the Clinton administration.

Fer real. Obama has the meeting wit Bush, tells his staff what was said, and then comes the leak. Obama isn't our brightest star, but he wouldn't have thought to do it.

re: #40 kenprice

If true (and I'm not certain, yet) this is gross stupidity. Someone in the Obama entourage appears to be trying to make "brownie points" with the Press. No government can operate with everything they discuss being public knowledge before any decision can be made. Worse, there is no way to know what's true, and what's someones leaking to force a decision. Obama may find himself losing control of his administration before he ever unpacks his bags at 1600 Pennsylvania Ave.

You're assuming that he ever had control in the first place.

Most of the conflicting messages from the Obama camp could be staffers looking for MSM brownie points.

re: #128 Ozark Mountain Daredevil

BOzo and his "wife" flew from Chicago to Washington DC yesterday on separate planes, and she was waiting in the limo when he got off his plane. This guy is so full of himself.

You mean it took two (that's 2) aircraft to fly them to DC?

... So much for Gobal Warming!

re: #114 SFGoth

I would prefer to look to the days of Reagan or either Bush again before I start pining for the fjords halcyon days of Clinton.

At some point, something will leak in a way that embarrasses lots of high-up people in Obama's Administration. And the resultant witch hunt will be a joy to behold (I recommend laying in a supply of popcorn and Raisinets).

re: #98 unreconstructed rebel

Don't worry. It's cool. I'm sending the wolf.

re: #81 3 wood

Yep. and Uncle Joe told you it would cause a major challenge by foreign powers within 6 months.

Ask yourself, if you were a terrorist, would Obama in the White House make you hesitate to strike?

Sadly I think it's not a question of if, but when.

rookie mistake

re: #126 Charles

Rahm Emmanuel was notorious for being one of the biggest leakers in the Clinton administration.

And being FAR wiser than Obama, he'll probably continue to get away with this for some time.

Well ... the difference in simple "class" was shown here. Obama is a bumbling, boorish fool.

LET THE FUMBLES BEGIN!

re: #106 ilyaunion

Does anyone think it's ironic how the candidate who promised change and a new type of government in Washington, free of Washington insiders, has so far surrounded himself, with anything but?

As far as I know the only people he knows are Washington insiders and his allies in Chicago. so he really had no choice except for the insiders.

re: #82 Silhouette

Isn't LGF a bank? I'm pretty sure we are.

Rock solid foundations!

Don't get giddy.

These leaks where deliberate to pressure the current Administration.

It's not an indication that the Obama Administration will be undisciplined.

It's an indication that they will do anything to harm their enemies.

re: #136 Amy

Why doesn't it "add up"?

See my post 146 :) Obama leaking it himself doesn't pass my critical thinking test. It's just so much easier for someone else to do it on their own or for him.

re: #114 SFGoth

After 8 years of Bush and 4-8 of Obama, we're going to long for Bill Clinton. Oy vey.
Listen mister we could use a lech like William Clinton again.
Forced to sign welfare reform
Not quite as bad to the unborn
Gee at least he seemed so warm
Those, were, the, days

What do you mean, "long for Bill Clinton"?

The Obama Administration is going to be a total rehash of the Clinton Administration. The only difference is that the part of James Carville will be played by David Axelrod.

Obama is about as trustworthy as your average Banana Spider.
To quote the Danny DiVito from Romancing the Stone, "We're in some serious shit heh"

You rethugs are so stupid! Anybody can see it's a classic false flag operation, and Chimpy Bushitler is the leaker. Gotta go, the black helicopters are coming and my checken pot pie is ready!
/

He'll make up the rules as he goes along. After all, he's Ready To Rule! Ready on Day One! Barry and Michelle, sitting by the red phone at three a.m.

Yes We Did!

re: #119 calcajun

Not with Rham Emanuel, he won't.

I wouldn't even be able to look at that midget. There is something about the sight of his face that angers me. It's likely the Napoleon complex.

A prediction:
The biggest military secret since the Manhattan project will go public during the next few weeks.

Guess whose election contributions are getting audited by the FEC?

Nope, not 0bama's. Why would they audit his contributions?

re: #158 Opinionated

Don't get giddy.

These leaks where deliberate to pressure the current Administration.

It's not an indication that the Obama Administration will be undisciplined.

It's an indication that they will do anything to harm their enemies.

Bingo. Now there's something that makes sense.

Thank you, Charles, for the Poppy on your banner. I really miss seeing the old veterans outside of public buildings offering them to people. I used to have a bouquet of them. After all the years and all the moves I still have one left from years ago.

Dmays

Obama has screwed up his first post election presser (classless Nancy Reagan remark) and now he has screwed up his first meeting with his predecessor. Both are easy tasks that Obama should have done successfully without much effort.

A supporter could say first time excitement. Detractors (like me) say he looks very amateurish. Could be a lot of on-the-job training for Obama and his crew.

And did we ever figure out what the "Office of President-Elect" is? Does he realize how stupid that looked? Doesn't he have a grown up to say "ummm, let's tone this down a bit"?

re: #82 Silhouette

It's an idea and opinion bank.

re: #154 looking closely

And being FAR wiser than Obama, he'll probably continue to get away with this for some time.

Shades of "Yes, Prime Minister" -- except Obama hasn't had the ministerial experience of a Jim Hacker.

He will be worse than Carter and Clinton. Trust me on that!

re: #95 Creeping Eruption

Considering that leaking info is an accepted practice by both sides in Washington, has anyone considered that the White House leaked it? Look how bad it is making Obama look right now and what is Obama's camp going to say: No we didn't, the President did. They would look even dumber.

Look bad? Seriously, the MSM is fawning over the leak. They're making him look good over it.

re: #147 Steffan

You're assuming that he ever had control in the first place.

Most of the conflicting messages from the Obama camp could be staffers looking for MSM brownie points.

They should be looking for Obama Brownie points.

And if Obama knew what's good for him, he'd find this leaker, and make a nice example of firing them to set the appropriate precedent early. (That is, of course, if the leaker weren't Obama himself, or a confidant authorized to make the leak).

Time & Torture make it necessary to retire. Tomorrow.

re: #126 Charles

Yep. He leaked to the press whatever he didn't like about his boss Bill Clinton. This will be a horrible presidency. What a shame!

re: #66 Izzy Dunne

Dead Horse.

Besides, Charles banned the subject months ago.

re: #174 buzzsawmonkey

"I'm a BLABBERMOUTH!"

--Ralph Kramden Barack Obama

When will he get to "hummena hummena hummena"?

re: #148 unreconstructed rebel

You mean it took two (that's 2) aircraft to fly them to DC?

... So much for Gobal Warming!

It's only Glo-Bull warming if a Republican does it. If Gore, RFK Jr, Kerry, et al, do it, well, they buy carbon offsets, I guess.

re: #122 the other Amy

Amy,
The drudge story says it was just Bush and Obama.

On another site, a person posted that this wonderful, it shows how transparent the Obama presidency will be vs. the evil Bush who hides all.

Except, if Obama really wanted to be transparent, why not just hold a press conference, or send out a press release. Why pretend that he did not leak it?

from the other Amy

Excellent question; if Obama thought there would be nothing wrong with the public's knowing this stuff, why didn't he just come right out and say it publicly? Clearly, it was intended to embarrass Bush, and it seems to have done exactly that. Poor W - starting with Putin and continuing with the Saudi thugocracy, he always tries to see the good in people and to given them the benefit of the doubt even when good sense would suggest that he do otherwise.

Obama reminds me of that old story about the scorpion who offers to take the frog across the river on his back. Before they get to the opposite shore, the scorpion fatally stings the frog. When the frog asks the scorpion why he did it, the scorpion replies, "Because I am a scorpion, and that is what scorpions do."

This is Obama's nature.

re: #143 Silhouette

The 0 is an ass.

re: #158 Opinionated

These leaks where deliberate to pressure the current Administration.

It's not an indication that the Obama Administration will be undisciplined.

It's an indication that they will do anything to harm their enemies.

Exactly!

re: #137 Creeping Eruption

I'd do the exact same thing. Leak and then complain with hearty righteous indignation. Obama looks the fool.

So far it sure ain't taking all that much to make that happen. All it apparently takes so far is to get Obama to be Himself.

re: #158 Opinionated

Don't get giddy.

These leaks where deliberate to pressure the current Administration.

It's not an indication that the Obama Administration will be undisciplined.

It's an indication that they will do anything to harm their enemies.

Possibly...however Bush coming out so quick to school him, makes Obama look like a chump. So either it was on purpose and backfired or it was just a bone-headed thing. Either way, Obama looks stupid.

This should get a chuckle here: Obama Team adopts Ethics Rules

Well it could be a leak, five-year olds have trouble keeping secrets to themselves - telling secrets make them feel important.

It could also be made up to make Bush look bad (shocking I know) and force his hand on UAW bail outs.

Either way it ain't pretty, or surprising.

re: #99 looking closely

The leak probably came from Obama personally.

How utterly insecure is this guy that he feels the need to leak this sort of thing?

This is NOT a leader, its a chicken.

If Obama can't learn to keep his big yap shut NOBODY is going to tell him anything.

Yes it did come from O but his handlers wouldn't have let him off with "It was a private conversation" as an answer either.

re: #161 opnion

Obama is about as trustworthy as your average Banana Spider.
To quote the Danny DiVito from Romancing the Stone, "We're in some serious shit heh"

He needs an LBJ to pick him up by his ears like a beagle.

Obama's too damn young and gitty to keep his mouth shut for one second, concerning anything. Who ever thought we would have a President where sources within his own government would keep things from him (my prediction), for fear of him getting it splashed across every paper in town.

Lets try again: Obama Transition Team adopts Ethical standards

What did we expect? Obama flips people off.

Charles... A suggestion for the Comments box... A Cancel button. I often start a comment, but think better of it...

re: #186 Creeping Eruption

This should get a chuckle here: Obama Team adopts Ethics Rules

Two "http"s in that link, fixed. :)

re: #128 Ozark Mountain Daredevil

BOzo and his "wife" flew from Chicago to Washington DC yesterday on separate planes, and she was waiting in the limo when he got off his plane. This guy is so full of himself.

Mebbe they needed some alone time.

re: #194 gop_patriot

Thanks.

re: #146 Noam Chumpski

Fer real. Obama has the meeting wit Bush, tells his staff what was said, and then comes the leak. Obama isn't our brightest star, but he wouldn't have thought to do it.

Don't kid yourself. Obama is very bright.

re: #191 Creeping Eruption

You're fast! lol :)

re: #191 Creeping Eruption

Lets try again: Obama Transition Team adopts Ethical standards

That's the first time in months i have linked to that gossip rag!

re: #193 Buck

Charles... A suggestion for the Comments box... A Cancel button. I often start a comment, but think better of it...

Just highlight your comment and hit delete

re: #162 Who Watches the Watchmen?

You rethugs are so stupid! Anybody can see it's a classic false flag operation, and Chimpy Bushitler is the leaker. Gotta go, the black helicopters are coming and my checken pot pie is ready!
/

NO! WWtW! MY POTPIE...Mom, WWtW is being a dildoe!

re: #131 Amy

I think you're right. When I said that Obama did the leaking, I didn't mean that he personally called up the press but that he must have divulged the contents of the conversation to others because he was the only one there besides Bush. And I agree that it was intended to embarrass Bush.

I'm beginning to have serious doubts about the abilities and professionalism of Obama's staff. This - a serious breach of etiquette, to cast it in the best light - follows on the release on (Wondrous!)change.gov of the now-defunct "draft" proposal. I suspect this was never the official plan, but rather the wet dream of some transition team intern, and when the adults got wind of it they went through the roof and yanked it immediately. But the fact that this sort of thing is happening at all, let alone on a seemingly regular basis, indicates that there's a whole pit crew of absolutely clueless amateurs about to seize the reins of power. Not exactly a comforting thought - if I were, for example, Vladimir Putin, I would be directing my puppet government to prepare for a Christmas Invasion of Georgia, and maybe a few other former Soviet satellite states, on the grounds that such ineptitude will never be able to formulate a meaningful response. If I were, for example, Hugo Chavez, I would be ramping up for some serious expansionism into Columbia. And if I were, for example, Mahmoud Ahmadinejad...well, let's just not even think about what I might have in mind to take advantage of a wet-behind-the-ears rookie while I was watching my own economy circle the drain along with plummeting oil prices as my populace grew increasingly agitated and restless, and just might be appeased by, oh, say a region-wide war that would direct their attention elsewhere.

I keep hearing "leaks", plural.

How many things that Bush and 0 surfaced?

re: #195 calcajun

Mebbe they needed some alone time.

I'm sure that after the election the WAB is insufferable, even for BO.

Heh!

re: #188 turn

Yes it did come from O but his handlers wouldn't have let him off with "It was a private conversation" as an answer either.

Its not up to them to let him do anything.

He's the POTUS (or soon to be), and THEY serve at HIS pleasure, not the other way around.

Again, if I were Obama, I'd find the leaker and accept their "resignation". (That is, presuming he didn't authorize the leak).

re: #195 calcajun

Mebbe they needed some alone time.

I heard that she was looking at private schools for the girls. She came ahead of him and stayed later.

re: #137 Creeping Eruption

I'd do the exact same thing. Leak and then complain with hearty righteous indignation. Obama looks the fool.

Oh, for heaven's sake. Why should Bush care to make Obama look the fool? Why should Bush care about anything political anymore? He gave up political struggle a couple of years ago. He just plain gave up.

re: #199 Nevergiveup

That's the first time in months i have linked to that gossip rag!

Didn't mean to put you out. I was going for humor over substance there. I'll put a NSL (Not Safe for Lizards) tag on it next time.

re: #149 FurryOldGuyJeans

I would prefer to look to the days of Reagan or either Bush again before I start pining for the fjords halcyon days of Clinton.

Yuck. For all of Clinton's foibles, Bush I gave us the monstrosity called the ADA, which is basically a giant lefty lever to screw property and business owners (signed with his usual dopey-ass grin) and Bush II gave us FDR II. It's like the end of the Romanovs sorta.

re: #193 Buck

Charles... A suggestion for the Comments box... A Cancel button. I often start a comment, but think better of it...

Good Idea, an Edit button, maybe also, to fix errors post posting!

re: #197 Amy

he is smart in the sense that he knows with whom to align himself with. when it comes to critical and analytical thinking abilities, his "off the cuf" statements and interviews say it all.

but hey, it's all about who you know eh?

No surprise.
Whether it's incompetence or testing the waters (as many here have suggested), it spells a disastrous tour in the White House. I'm sure it helps with a press that laps up everything the Obamas say and do.

re: #128 Ozark Mountain Daredevil

BOzo and his "wife" flew from Chicago to Washington DC yesterday on separate planes, and she was waiting in the limo when he got off his plane. This guy is so full of himself.

___
BØzo - copied that to my QuickNote
___
Why separate planes? Is she the V-P?

re: #207 wolfie

By that reasoning, why then complain about it? It was just a thought I tossed out there.

re: #197 Amy

Don't kid yourself. Obama is very bright.

He's also extremely green.

He's never run anything in his life, except for his own office, and he's starting WAY at the top here. He'll get better. . .but its on our dime now.

re: #208 Creeping Eruption

Didn't mean to put you out. I was going for humor over substance there. I'll put a NSL (Not Safe for Lizards) tag on it next time.

I'll survive!

Can't really say I'm surprised, I also wonder that no one mentioned the NYT top secret leak about the Al-Qaeda rules of engagement and how it was leaked after the "One" received his first real national security briefing that it occurred! Hmmm, could not be them could it?

OT

Watching the last halk-hour of (and it's a shame I missed most of it) "Battleground" and I was struck by this quote that's as true today as it was then:

The Chaplain: [at an interfaith service for the soldiers] Now it's nearly Christmas... and here we are in beautiful Bastogne enjoying the winter sports. And the $64 question is: "Was this trip necessary?" I'll try to answer that. But my sermons, like everything else in the army... depend on the situation and the terrain. So I assure you this is going to be a quickie. Was this trip necessary? Let's look at the facts. Nobody wanted this war but the Nazis. A great many people tried to deal with them, and a lot of them are dead. Millions have died... for no other reason except that the Nazis wanted them dead. So, in the final showdown, there was nothing left to do except fight. There's a great lesson in this. Those of us who've learned it the hard way aren't going to forget it. We must never again let any force dedicated to a super-race... or a super-idea, or super-anything... become strong enough to impose itself upon a free world. We must be smart enough and tough enough in the beginning... to put out the fire before it starts spreading. My answer to the sixty-four dollar question is yes, this trip was necessary. As the years go by, a lot of people are going to forget. But you won't. And don't ever let anybody tell you you were a sucker to fight in the war against fascism. And now, Jerry permitting, let us pray. Almighty God...
[artillery drowns him out]
The Chaplain: The organist is hitting those bass notes a little too loud for me to be heard. So let each of us pray in his own way, to his own God.

Link.

Obama is cut from the same cloth as Pat "Leaky" Leahy.

To me this whole leak issue is symptomatic of the fact that Obama still has not had to make a decision he has to be accountable for. He chats with Bush and than blabs about Bush wanting a quid pro quo...but at this point Obama doesn't have skin in the game so feels very comfortable talking about it with his staff. His staff, in turn, is trying to ingratiate themselves to the media so they pass it on. However some day soon, it will be decisions that Obama has to explain and live with. At that point these leaks will be a problem.

re: #200 Big Steve

Just highlight your comment and hit delete

I know, but it would be nice to be sure it is canceled...

The leaks that I really fear are the ones that develop after Obama's people have gone through the White House files. I am sure that every White House has generated files of "graveyard" stuff that in the National Interest will not see the light of day for 20 to 50 years. They will be combing through this stuff looking for something they can use to justify a special counsel or a call to the New York Times, National Interest be damned.

re: #197 Amy

Don't kid yourself. Obama is very bright.

From The Corner on National Review Online: Inside Obama [John Derbyshire].

Much interesting email on my speculations about Obama's IQ and Big Five scores.

Wellnigh everyone takes issue with my having pegged the President-elect's IQ as "maybe over 140," which would put him in the 99.62 percentile. (To put it another way, it would mean that he was in the top 1.14 million of Americans by IQ.) This is all guesswork, of course, but I was going by:

(1) His academic record, even after discounting for affirmative action.

(2) The fact that he won't release his test scores. There are two possible reasons why he would refuse: (a) they are embarrasingly low (dolt!), or (b) they are embarrasingly high (elitist!). I'm going with (b) because of (1).

(3) Heritability of IQ, a well-established fact, with current estimates 40-80 percent heritable. Barack Obama senior, though cursed with a self-destructive personality, was a very smart guy indeed. Econometrics ain't tic-tac-toe. His Mom I'm not so sure about, but she completed a Ph.D., which is more than I managed.

On the Big Five, I'm being told my guesses are off. All right: way off. Here's a reader who really knows his Big Five … and should: he's a professor of psychology.

Openness to Experience: As commonly measured, this factor is driven substantially by "liberal" values such as tolerance. Persons higher in O also can be daydreamy and idealistic (versus hard headed and realistic). They also sound to most people like they know what they are talking about. Successful homicide investigators are very low in O — they deal with facts and don't go around dreaming up fantastical alternative scenarios (e.g. Columbian drug dealers killing a famous athlete’s ex-wife).

Conscientiousness: The higher Conscientiousness, as you suggest, is a given; I doubt anyone ever graduated from Harvard Law without the advantage of high Conscientiousness (people low in Conscientiousness are satisfied with St. John’s Law, and the Harvard application was too long, anyway). He dresses high C. And Conscientiousness correlates with IQ.

Extroversion: The higher Extroversion reflects Obama's desire to be in the spotlight and his taste for leadership. High extroverts make a good first impression. They are affable — but that doesn’t mean they think much of you.

Agreeableness: Here's the juicy part — very low Agreeableness. He is guarded and reluctant to trust others. He is competitive, even ruthless. Other people are just pawns in his game. He often feels superior to others. He is cynical about others' motives, because he knows that his own motives are impure. He cannot tolerate disagreement.

Neuroticism: Finally, … high Neuroticism. He is more sensitive than others to the pain that is life. Having Dad abandon you at age 2 will do that, as will having Mom abandon you at age 10. His tobacco use is a sign of high N — smoking calms the nerves (expect ex-President Obama to develop cancer like U.S. Grant?) And so, paradoxically, is his compulsive fitness — there is a weak, self-indulgent fat man inside of Mr. Obama struggling to be unleashed, and who is flagellated daily in the gym. I suspect that there is deep unhappiness beneath the flawless exterior.

[Me] Wow. Stuff to watch out for there.

So I don't get it. Obama can apparently keep his top-secret talks with Palestinian Authority terrorists confidential, but not a private discussion with his own President?

Dare I suggest there may be loyalty issues?

re: #209 SFGoth

Well, yuck back at ya for all your revision of recent history. But then I wouldn't expect anything less from your take on things as evidenced here at lgf.

re: #139 3 wood

By the way, the New York Times stock price set yet another 52 week low, closing at $8.38, a drop of 3.46% in one day.

And I am cheering every inch of their sinking.

That's about the only good news in the stock market right now ...

Hey 3, is there going to be a bottom?

re: #191 Creeping Eruption

Lets try again: Obama Transition Team adopts Ethical standards

Well won't this be interesting. We all know how much the left thinks of rules meant to constrain them (along with others). If we ever find out the truth, I'd bet good money that there will be money and favors exchanged in return for ignoring the rules...and that the rules will be selectively applied.

re: #172 winston06

He will be worse than Carter and Clinton. Trust me on that!

It will also be interesting to see how long the sewer rats in the MSM that helped protect this guy during the campaign continue try to protect him.

We might see an interesting tug of war when the handful of reporters in Washington that still have some minor measure of integrity left do battle with the rest.

Sort of like street whores fighting over a busy corner.

re: #221 Big Steve

To me this whole leak issue is symptomatic of the fact that Obama still has not had to make a decision he has to be accountable for. He chats with Bush and than blabs about Bush wanting a quid pro quo...but at this point Obama doesn't have skin in the game so feels very comfortable talking about it with his staff. His staff, in turn, is trying to ingratiate themselves to the media so they pass it on. However some day soon, it will be decisions that Obama has to explain and live with. At that point these leaks will be a problem.

Indeed.
Either Obama authorized this leak personally, or he didn't.
Neither way does it look good for him.
If he did this personally to attack Bush, he's petty and vindictive.
If one of his staffers did it without his knowledge, he's being played. If Obama can't control his staff, he won't be able to accomplish anything. Who knows what leaks won't be so benign next time.

re: #227 turn

That's about the only good news in the stock market right now ...

Hey 3, is there going to be a bottom?

There will be a bottom; just how far down that bottom will be is the question.

Classless, boorish. Clearly a thug, a lightweight, and a complete jerk. In my day, we called this kind of person an "asshole".

If this guy doesn't even have enough class, brains or poise to recognize that you don't go blabbing private conversations with anybody much less the President of the United States, what the hell else does he not know about common courtesy, etiquette and professional protocol? He may have been an affirmative-action attendee at a fancy school, but at heart he's a hillbilly, and a boor.

re: #215 looking closely

He's also extremely green.

He's never run anything in his life, except for his own office, and he's starting WAY at the top here. He'll get better. . .but its on our dime now.

Agreed. Whiich is why everyone is paying such obsessively close attention to his appointments to sensitive and influential posts - everybody knows that that will tell us what we're in for and whether it's just going to be bad or

re: #213 right_on_target

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BØzo - copied that to my QuickNote
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Why separate planes? Is she the V-P?

Good question. I'll bet she doesn't go on too many overseas trips. She might steal some of his spotlight.

I'm getting some hamsterism here.

catastrophic.

Okay, seems better.

re: #106 ilyaunion

Does anyone think it's ironic how the candidate who promised change and a new type of government in Washington, free of Washington insiders, has so far surrounded himself, with anything but?

That's about the only "good" thing I can say about him. What if he surrounded himself with people like Code Pink, Bernardine and Bill, Rev. Wright, and Khalid Whatsisname?

/Guess I need to go to the store and fill up my supply of scare quotes.

With Rahm Emanuel and the rest of the Chicago mob in charge, this will be the most ruthless Whitehouse group ever. Leaks will happen only when the mob calculates that the leaks will benefit the One. If other leaks occur, the plumbers will be dispatched posthaste. And woe be unto those who "leak" without authorization and embarrass the One. Classified information is OK to leak. Leak anything that embarrasses the One, and you're done.

re: #227 turn

Hey 3, is there going to be a bottom?

Yes, and where it is depends to a large extent now on just how mush Marxism Obama gets put through.

I got a lot of calls last week from long time investors telling me they were cashing out of the market and moving their money to tax free triple A muni's.

re: #226 FurryOldGuyJeans

Well, yuck back at ya for all your revision of recent history. But then I wouldn't expect anything less from your take on things as evidenced here at lgf.

Would you care to back your fighting words up with some citation to reality? What recent history have I revised? My take on things is conservatarian and I make no bones about that. If you think Bush I was a good president, wow. Other than managing to beat a 3rd rate army into submission with the invigorated U.S. Armed Forces, what the heck else did he do that's positive? He got played by the Dem Congress pretty well.

re: #157 turn

She was joking about getting a piece of the pie Turn ...

O'Ring. That's what the leak needs.

re: #191 Creeping Eruption

Why do I get the feeling that ethics will be as welcome, useful, and appreciated in the incoming administration as a red-headed stepchild is in a family.

re: #245 FurryOldGuyJeans

Why do I get the feeling that ethics will be as welcome, useful, and appreciated in the incoming administration as a red-headed stepchild is in a family.

But it sure makes neat, splashy headlines. /

Why is it that every article I read quote's Obama's election as historic? What's more historic about this election than any other one? It seems like this is a matter of race, and he seems like anything but a postracial candidate.

re: #214 Creeping Eruption

By that reasoning, why then complain about it? It was just a thought I tossed out there.

Bush gave up politics, but not governing. He (via staffers) complained because Obama & Co. were being jerks and compromising a private talk. It just is NOT done. Not even Clinton did that.

BTW, I think w/ any other president your suspicions would be warranted and are dang smart. Why assume it was Obama?
But in Bush's case, we're dealing with a dead horse.

re: #191 Creeping Eruption

Lets try again: Obama Transition Team adopts Ethical standards

So does this mean that all those fine individuals who contributed internet contributions to the O campaign - like Mickey Mouse, Saddam Hussein, and Mr. QWERTYUIOP - won't be able to donate to the transition?

re: #240 Walter Cronanty

With Rahm Emanuel and the rest of the Chicago mob in charge, this will be the most ruthless Whitehouse group ever. Leaks will happen only when the mob calculates that the leaks will benefit the One. If other leaks occur, the plumbers will be dispatched posthaste. And woe be unto those who "leak" without authorization and embarrass the One. Classified information is OK to leak. Leak anything that embarrasses the One, and you're done.

The Whitehouse is a rather large circus, and Obama is going to have his hands full dealing with it. . .perhaps more than full given his lack of experience.

Leaks plague EVERY Presidential administration, why should Obama be better able to deal with them than others?

How often have you heard that the world will respect us again, if only we do the right thing and elect Obama?
You have to wonder how comfortable foreign leaders will feel speaking with him in confidence.

re: #162 Who Watches the Watchmen?

You rethugs are so stupid! Anybody can see it's a classic false flag operation, and Chimpy Bushitler is the leaker. Gotta go, the black helicopters are coming and my checken pot pie is ready!
/

There must be a funny story behind this ?

Expect a tidal wave of leaks to be coming out of the Ö administration. This is largely Amateur Hour for narcissists. And the only pros it will have will be the professional criminals.

re: #128 Ozark Mountain Daredevil

BOzo and his "wife" flew from Chicago to Washington DC yesterday on separate planes, and she was waiting in the limo when he got off his plane. This guy is so full of himself.

Any comments from Greenpeace?

/expecting to hear crickets

re: #224 stuiec

OK, but none of the psychological stuff relates to his intelligence.
Law students don't get to be the editor of the Harvard Law Review without having something on the ball. And I believe he graduated from Harvard Law cum laude. You can dismiss that if you wish, but I think it shows that the guy has smarts. No experience, no character, but smarts.

re: #245 FurryOldGuyJeans

Why do I get the feeling that ethics will be as welcome, useful, and appreciated in the incoming administration as a red-headed stepchild is in a family.

Maybe they'll do like the Scientologists and have their own in-house definition of the word "ethics."

re: #249 Occasional Reader

So does this mean that all those fine individuals who contributed internet contributions to the O campaign - like Mickey Mouse, Saddam Hussein, and Mr. QWERTYUIOP - won't be able to donate to the transition?

Apparently only up to 5K then Mickey will face investigation /

re: #247 IlyaUnion

When anyone says "historic" around me, I ask them what is so historic about it.

Just to force them to say it.

They look afraid to voice it for a split-second, and then state it, sometimes couched with a lot of "...you knooow..."

re: #113 dmays

Obama has screwed up his first post election presser (classless Nancy Reagan remark) and now he has screwed up his first meeting with his predecessor. Both are easy tasks that Obama should have done successfully without much effort.

It's going to be a long four years.

In line with his third-finger use during the campaign. He seems like an overgrown adolescent, not a true grown-up.

re: #241 3 wood

and moving their money to tax free triple A muni's.

"Municipal bonds, Ted!"

re: #250 looking closely

Leaks plague EVERY Presidential administration, why should Obama be better able to deal with them than others?

Fear, surprise, ruthless efficiency and a fanatical devotion to the "O".

Take an unsanctioned leak in the Oval Office, and you're done.

re: #197 Amy

Oh please. How many people do I know in my line of business(Energy) that have Masters degree and have no idea what they are doing. The answer is alot. I respect higher education, but it doesn't mean you will be a good leader.

re: #244 Fat Bastard Vegetarian

O'Ring. That's what the leak needs.

Nah, some plumber's putty should put an end to it. Where's Joe the plumber when you need him?

re: #262 Tamron

Take an unsanctioned leak in the Oval Office, and you're done.

Didn't Billy Carter pull that off successfully?

re: #246 Creeping Eruption

But it sure makes neat, splashy headlines. /

Seems kinda late on in the game to be adopting ethical rules.