Bachmann didn't directly answer questions about the role of faith and her views on sexual orientation, but David thinks those questions will continue to come up on the trail. Also, are Michele Bachmann, Jon Huntsman, Mitt Romney and Rick Perry the new top tier of candidates?
In an eventful Sunday on Meet the Press - and a busy week in 2012 politics - I sat down with the winner of this year's Iowa Straw Poll, Congresswoman Michele Bachmann (R-MN).
Bachmann stood by her stances on economic policy - mainly her refusal to vote to raise the federal debt ceiling - saying blame for the downgrade lies with the White House. "It's President Obama who failed to put any sort of a plan forward. That's what led to uncertainty."
Social issues were also a part of our conversation this morning. Congresswoman Bachmann and I discussed the role her faith plays in her life and decision making. Also, some of her more controversial statements in the past on gay marriage.
The other big 2012 news was Fmr. Gov. Tim Pawlenty's decision to bow out of the race. Bachmann and Governor Pawlenty made news Thursday when they sparred during the GOP debate. This morning, Bachmann told me she will call Pawlenty to wish him well and that he, "brought a very important voice to the race."
Watch our entire broadcast on our website to see more of my interview with Michele Bachmann and our political roundtable. I was joined by Iowa’s Governor Terry Branstad (R); GOP strategist Mike Murphy; the Washington Post’s Eugene Robinson; senior political reporter for Politico, Jonathan Martin; and NBC News Political Director, Chuck Todd.
We'll be back next week. If it's Sunday, it's Meet The Press.
Leave a Comment:
I usually look forward to your program. Today, David was malicious in his interview of Bachmann. I am not a Bachmann fan, but believe in fairness. Gregory was way off base today. News people, in the old days were unbiased. What happened??
Bill Becker, DDS
Malicious? Regardless of anyone's view about the leanings of NBC News, it's fair to ask a candidate about her views on any topic regarding how they would affect policy. And, for example, since the nation in general is growing more and more accepting of the concept that a child raised by two loving mothers or two loving fathers is not going to be irreparably damaged, it's absolutely fair to cite on-the-record statements she has made and ask if they would apply to her thinking in the oval office. Just because David identified the flaws in her logic and busted her when she tried to pivot back to her talking points without answering the question (unlike the other networks who asked her the same questions this morning) doesn't make him malicious; it makes him a better journalist.
I agree with Mr. Becker.
At what point was David Gregory disrespectful or malicious? He treated her just like any other politician avoiding answering a question.
Her being dismissive doesn't make her seem any more honest about her bigotry
Not sure, I'd say it was malicious, but the line of questioning made David Gregory look silly. He was off his game today. He was fishing for a wacky response instead of asking questions that actually addressed her qualifications to be President. I'm a democrat and no fan of Ms. Bachman, but it was the questions that were wacky. I'd like to think we rely on the David Gregory's of the world to help us with substance not sound bites. Not a good day for Meet The Press.
Discussion and debate with regards to the social driven agenda of Republicans running for President is fair game. It affects our nation and how we define ourselves and the future direction of our Nation. The REPUBLICANS have openly run on the following issues: Anti-Gay, Pro-gun, anti-union, anti-immigration, anti-regulation, pro-business subsidies, no new revenue, anti-medicaid, anti-medicare, anti-social security (as we now know them) yet we now have the SAME REPUBLICANS that ran for Congress or Governor claiming that those social issues are NOT important issues for debate. What would be more cynical than campaigning on THOSE issues in their BACKYARDS but keeping them outside the boundaries of a National campaign? If your running for President of USA then WE the people have a right to know where BOTH political Parties stand and what they are planning to do if and when they win the White House.
When then Sen. Obama said he believed that marriage was between a man and a women...there wasn't a follow-up question about him appointing gays to his cabinet or the supreme court. Where is the fairness in MTP????????
The fairness is this. When Obama said 'marriage was between a man and a women' that was all he said. He didn't have a record of beeing a bigot and thinking that gay people are sick and need to be treated for an disorder. Bachman thinks that and said it out loud on many occasions. That is why she gets follow-up questions.
Bachman, choked! Regardless of her questions being ask, she apparently could not answer the questions. These are issues she will have to deal with in the white house. Drop out while it's still early lady!
David went straight to a very important point! Bachman is a narrow minded religious fanatic. She does not believe in secularism which is the cornerstone of America democracy! Her views about gay/ lesbian communities are quite clear, she believe they are the "spawn of satan". We live in the XXI century, Bachman and her Tea Party do not (or will never) accept tolerance, diversity, integration, differences of opinions. This lady CANNOT represent the vast majority of Americans!
I agree, David Gregory was out of line with Michelle Bachmann on the issue of her religion.
Many past Presidents have said they talk to God and listen to what he is saying. David kept "drilling" her about this subject and he was "out of line" in his professional approach. I watch Meet the Press each week and think David Gregory does a great job but he owes Mrs. Bachmann an apology.
He was not malicious at all. She didn't answer the questions. She would never appoint a gay person to her cabinet or the courts. So why not just say it. She believes women should be submissive to their husbands and masks it as 'respect'. She didn't want to become a tax attorney. Why didn't he respect her wishes and desires. I am so sick of the Christian agenda in the Republican party. I'm a registered Independent but I have mostly Republican views. Less federal government, no tax hikes, control spending but if the candidates that I saw this weekend run for President...I'll vote for Obama. Separation of religion and state is sacred. Freedom of religion is sacred. I am conservative but I do not advocate the Christian agenda.
10's 10's 10's across the board for DG on MTP, What a great morning...! I was tired of people giving MB a pass on rhetoric. It was quite interesting seeing MB actually cringe as she was having an Ally Mcbeal moment. Thank you for illustrating a very important point - MB wants to govern people the way she feels they need to be governed..."according to her views" not according whats right and fair for everyone. If your unemployeed "we don't have the money." If gay or a lesbian she wont "judge you," and its my guess she wont FIGHT for your rights either. And if your an African American child born today, she'll just wish you back to slavery times when the African American nuclear family was so much stronger... yippy! My bad, there is no real proof MB actually read the portion of the Pledge that asserts the African American children crap... but she signed it... Which begs the question DG... does MB usually sign documents she doesn't read? feebee
Bravo David Bravo.
The particular part about questioning, and in a sense, attempting to seed out an non-rhetorical response concerning her beliefs on Gay and Lesbian Americans is quite a serious matter. No to be over and above, the other serious matters of our time, but with States in our Union wavering between the legalization of Gay marriage, this is a definite concern for the millions of Americans who are gay and will be voting for a presidential candidate.
The matter of it being a fair conversation between David and Bachmann should not deter the seriousness of her statements, defying these Americans as sexually dysfunctional. In the sense that she is attempting to come off as accredited in her usage of the term sexual dysfunctional, stands more as a claim to her 'judgement' about their lifestyle rather than any actual real physiological issue. It is clear that David saw that blatant judgement call on her part, and called her out on it.
Hence, Bravo David Bravo.
I don't feel that Michele Bachmann did a very good job. She danced about answering the questions....and just stuck to her own agenda. One thing she mentioned....Obama did not put any sort of plan forward.....that is really not his job. That is their job...Congress....to do that.
No one should vote for a politian who is either inept and using words correctly (saying "submissive" is the same as "respect") or is so hateful of woman and gays that she believes women should be submissive to men and that gays are under the influenced of satan. So either she is inept at words or a hater--not someone I would vote for in either case.
Its a no-brainer that MB is not right for America. She is a perfect example of
someone who is wrong for America.
Anyone who openly hates others (gays) and says that they are under the influence of Satan is an extremist and a divisionist.
What if a presidential candidate says that the Irish, African-Americans, single moms or Hindus are influenced by Satan that would not be tolerated? Nope. She would be called upon to make apologies, beg forgiveness, etc. Why is she still a tea party/Republican front runner? Are there no gay Republicans or gay tea party members that feel they should speak out against her?
As far as her cave man/woman like belief that women should be submissive to men –wow. What makes it worse is that she equates submissive with respect! I bet Freud would have a field day with that one.
So, it really does not matter what her vision for America is. If you are a hater or believe that people should not reach their fullest potential, then I guess you have found your candidate. Why do we continue to entertain these individuals?
If a male were to say that women should be submissive to men how long do you
think that political career would last? So many women’s groups would be all
over him. Women’s groups, women tea party, female politicians, and republican
members should speak out against such backwards ideology. I wish David had pursued this point more with her as they speak volumes about her ideas for America’s future.
I agree with those who say the debate should be about who can fix the economy and create jobs. However, Michele Bachmann and Rick Perry made conservative social issues a key part of their candidacy and their legacies in their states. We need to question them on those issues. I object to any politician who uses their personal religious doctrine to determine public policy. I view my religious covenants and practices as an important, but personal issue to me. Michele Bachmann dodged your question on if she would appoint someone in her administration or to the courts if they were an atheist or gay. She said her litmus test would be that they agree with her views. I believe her past statements, which she does not refute, clarify her "views."
David,
How could you let Michele Bachmann get away with the comment that "people are not concerned with the issues surrounding gays and lesbians?" When she said that people are not concerned with these issues, I can only tell you as a gay man, representing approx. 10 % of the American population that she is wrong and her comment assumes that I am insignificant and my issues don't count. You should have called her up on that without simply going on to your next question. You were obvioulsy not listening to her. How can she represent America as a possible President if she discounts a significant 10 % of the population? David, you let her off the hook. Why?
I thought he did a good job, but Bachmann was clearly not going to address the questions.
I think David left her with some egg hanging on her face.
I don't think he let her off. He asked, she danced. he asked again , she danced some more. this was a get to know the candidate piece. I got to know she doesn't know the difference between submissive and respect (many gay men can educate her on the difference) and she really is a bigot. Yes jobs are important, but civil rights are important to me.
You`re a HACK. You were swinging for the fences with Congressman Bachmann. I remember the 'hard hitting' questions you people asked then Senator Obama in 2007. Hard hitting questions like, "how are you holding up on this vigorous campaign trail?"
NBC-DNC. A subsidiary of the Democratic National Committee. Lapdogs...
This is not 2207 chump. This is 2011 and your friends on the right have jumped of the bridge and committed suicide. Its to late now to be for higher revenues, tolerance towards gay community, or pro-medicare. It's not your candidates or the questions stupid it's your POSITIONS on economic and social issues. By the way, what is good for rural Iowa is not what might be good for the Real America; the Huge Urban centers of NYC, LOs Angels, Miami, or Boston. We are no longer and agricultural society so please sell your horse,
One big difference between 2007 and 2011 is that MANY more Americans had JOBS. The huge urban centers ARE the problem in America today. You Communists pushing your Communist dream on the rest of us. Drop the higher revenues and call them what they really are, pepe. TAX INCREASES. Higher and higher taxes. A Democrat utopia. Spreading the wealth to welfare broodmares. We are tired of paying for your 14 illegitimate kids, pepe... The private sector is sitting Comrade Hate and Blame`s attack on anybody who has mo stuff than you.
WoW for a second I thought you had a point.... but then I found it, your point is more, more, more... The last time I checked everyone is on the Govt's Sugar tit... everyone has their hand out.... like the banks that recieved a bail out, why? becuase no one was regulating the capitalist piranha who just wanted what, more stuff at the expense of all the welfare babies from coast to coast. Wasn't that a redistribution of wealth? hmmmm. Bachmann wants to be president of the United States Of America... west coast, east coast, middle america, urban, sub-urban, metropolitan, and rural not just the people who have all the stuff...
Scott,
Yes, more people had jobs in 2007, seeing as that was prior to the collapse in 2008. However, more people have jobs now, than in 2008. Um, are you aware of what communism really is??? Because a tax hike is a far cry from communism. I mean, even Greenspan is saying we need to regulate Wall St. You're post is laughable.
Where is the Obama, Reid and Pelosi budget plan? What`s it been? Three years since Washington has had a budget? Oh, thats right. Tax increases and spend even more... That`s there plan. Kind of hard to put that in a budget I guess.
It's your lack of knowlege Scott that really scares me and that so many people think the way you do. Using the fear based political tactics and bargining chips such as raising the dept ceiling is only hurting this countries ecomony. No one ever even gave it a thought when it's been raised every other time. David Gregory is not a Hack. If Bachmann only gives her pre-recorded answers, David only has an alloted time to get his questions in. She is the single worst candiate the GOP could run. I wish her luck.
The absolute best thing for the Democrats in 2012 will be a GOP ticket headed by either Bachmann or Perry.
We have had enough of the Social borrowing of .42 cents for every Social dollar spent by President Hate and Blame in our names... He does not have my permission to borrow and spend us into oblivion. Cut the spending. Get Government out of the way so our economy can go back in the right direction. Obama`s big new EPA is a problem. Obama`s energy plan is a nightmare. This guy couldn`t do worse damage to our economy if he tried. President DOWNGRADE is done.
And Gregory is a partisian HACK. His employer is a LAPDOG to the Socialists... No journalism at all. Just partisan hack jobs...
If you don't have a valid point to make you just resort to name calling.
Yes, MB leaves it all to "her views." It's her caveat for selecting evangelical/charismatic, right-wing, tea party folks to her admin and judge posts. Frankly, it's not she who frightens me, but rather Rick Perry. Perry, the secessionist, has Bachmann's same views, both politically and religiously. He is, however, much more powerful and experienced. A much broader body will be attracted to him. David, when will you have the opportunity to confront the Gov. on MTP? Soon, I hope!
PS - Please make sure there is at least one a woman in on your panels. It was a tremendous oversight this morning.
I find it funny, and scary, when these right wing folks attack the judicial branch. Of course, they're going to slander the courts and judges, seeing as the judiciary branch is who checks them. They know all their crazy attempts at legislating morality and disenfranchizing middle/lower class minorities are unconstitutional. Under court scrutiny, the new immigration laws, the new laws for voter id, the allowance given to spy on Muslim citizens, the union stripping, the Roe overturning, and the ban on gay marriage, will never hold up and all will be found to be unconstitutional. They need to start attacking the courts now if they want to have any success implementing their agenda.
I thought the questioning was slanted, and I'm pretty liberal. Let's say moderate. I believe Ms. Bachmann was not straying too far from her script, but the pointed questions set my teeth on edge, too. David, you need to watch that your opinions don't enter into the conversation too much. You need to respectfully ask questions that elicit answers, not pounce on things you think will make news.
We expect the candidates to show respect to the electorate by answering the questions that are asked rather than responding with talking points. If they do not respond to the questions asks they should be pushed until they do. I think David didn't push MB hard enough on her position on the debt and the economy. He should have asked her about her absurd response at the debate to the effect that she is fighting for us to have the right to use incandescent light bulbs !
Aaaah veedub: "respectfully" is the key word, David was argumentative, disrespectful and totally biased (as usual). He doesn't need any representative of the democrats for a political discussion with a Republican. He's enough.
so he wasn't submissive
I don't care for Bachmann or any other candidate that runs almost entirely under the colors of a religious zealot. As an independent, I would never vote for someone who is so blatantly influenced by their fundamentalist religious views. It's disgusting to use your own, sacred beliefs to pander and bludgeon opponents who don't share your views.
If she makes it to the actual election, she's going to find that a large portion of independent and moderate voters feel the same way.
People like you amaze me. Your hatred toward religion is no different then people who are intolerant of race ect ect.
You should be thankful that we have people who are influenced from the good morals that we all actually live by day by day.
Im wondering if you would have voted for any of our founding fathers and how our nation was built. All our laws, decisions, our entire foundation with the morals of gods word, an absolute truth to determine what is good and bad in our society. One nation UNDER GOD, how can you forget where we came from. Its sad people like you and so many others try to change our society. Im thankful that someone isnt afraid to express their religious beliefs.
Its unfortunate that hardly any, if any politicians these days really do live by an 'AUTHENTIC" biblical life. Most people dont, which gives relgions such bad names anyway.
I agree with the Ferryman. I am Christian, but there are a dozen different philosophies within American Christianity and of course there are a lot more religions than Christianity within our population. You can have whatever religious view you want but I am also uncomfortable with someone who waves that religious flag so vehemently. I want someone with convictions but I do not want to be beat over the head with it. It should be personal.
Damon, you and MB need to study American history. I find that the people who scream the loudest about it often know the least. I for one am glad that society has changed (slavery, Jim Crow, separate, but equal, women's suffrage-do those issues ring any bells for you?).
FYI, I think you mean etc. which is the abbreviation for et cetera, not "ect."
Thank you C for correcting my grammar, since you cant give a valid argument about our founding fathers or our morals, foundation of american life.
Damon, let me help you then with the founding fathers and what they believed because obviously you haven't done your own studying. It was Thomas Jefferson that proposed the much known "separation of church and state" because after all many colonists escaped countries where government and church were intertwined. James Madison was a strong proponent of separation of church and state, once again so that those wishing to worship in their religion could do so without fear of persecution. Many don't hate religion, but many of us are learning to dislike those of you who don't understand you can't impose your Religion on the rest of us. For the record, I am catholic, notoriously baptists, protestants, lutherans (especially the church that Bachmann belonged to where they believe the pope is the anti-christ) disliked catholics. And when catholics were in "power" back way when in history they did all sorts of savage things to others who weren't of the faith. Maybe, just maybe, people like us aren't afraid of "religion" as much as we are afraid of false prophets who use religion for their own personal gain to push gullible people like you into acting without reason or conscience. All you have to to do is look at the past and present day where atrocities have been committed in the name of "religion" because "god fearing people" couldn't think for themselves and ask questions about their leader or the person giving the orders.
Damon, I can tell you, I am getting angrier with people like you. If you want to believe that women are submissive, if you want to believe that God talks to you, if you want to believe that the sun doesn't exist, I really don't care but keep it within your congregation and your religion and quit trying to inject it into politics and onto the rest of us.
People like you are what has made me move to being an independent, anything but the extremists of the left and the extremists of the right.
Oh man ET Thorne I guess I will have to dig up the proof behind what I said. I will be more then happy to do so when i get home from work. Stay tuned for the next day. I get tired of people saying there is a separation, no one ever said that. Nor is it any where in our constitution. And what TJ said has been mis interpreted by so many people its sickening. I will be more then happy to show our foundation of religion and our founding fathers later tonight and or tomorrow.
I do agree that many were deists, as well as many who were christians. Im not trying to say that our founding fathers all were christians. My point is that our founding fathers believed in answering to something higher and mightier. I got some quotes from them for now, im still at work, but I will find plenty more.
James Madison, FATHER of the U.S. Constitution: "We have staked the whole future of American civilization, not upon the power of government, far from it. We have staked the future of all our political institutions upon the capacity of mankind for self-government; upon the capacity of each and all of us to govern ourselves, to control ourselves, to sustain ourselves according to the Ten Commandments of God."
~~~ Thomas Jefferson, 1781: "God who gave us life gave us liberty. And can the liberties of a nation be thought secure when we have removed their only firm basis, a conviction in the minds of the people that these liberties are a gift of God? That they are not to be violated but with His wrath? Indeed, I tremble for my country when I reflect that God is just; that His justice cannot sleep forever"
~~~ George Washington: "You do well to wish to learn our arts and our ways of life, and above all, the religion of Jesus Christ. Congress will do everything they can to assist you in this wise intention."
~~~ George Washington, October 3, 1789: "It is the duty of all nations to acknowledge THE Providence of Almighty God, to obey His will, to be grateful for His benefits, and to humbly implore His protection and favor."
~~~ Samuel Adams: " Let...statesmen and patriots unite their endeavors to renovate the age by...educating their little boys and girls...and leading them in the study and practice of the exalted virtues of the Christian system."
~~~ Benjamin Franklin: "History will also afford frequent opportunities of showing the necessity of a public religion...and the excellency of the Christian religion above all others, ancient or modern."
~~~ Benjamin Franklin, June 28, 1787, at the Constitutional Convention: "We have been assured, Sir, in the Sacred Writings, that 'except the Lord build the House, they labor in vain that build it.' I firmly believe this; and I also believe that without His concurring aid we shall succeed in this political building no better than the builders of Babel."
~~~ Alexander Hamilton's dying words, July 12, 1804: "I have tender reliance on the mercy of the Almighty; through the merits of the Lord Jesus Christ. I am a sinner. I look to Him for mercy; pray for me."
~~~ John Adams, 1756 (our 2nd President) -- MY PERSONAL FAVORITE, BTW: "Suppose a nation in some distant region should take the Bible for their only Law Book, and every member should regulate his conduct by the precepts there exhibited... What a paradise would this region be!"
Patrick Henry's Last Will & Testament, November 20, 1798: "This is all the inheritance I give to my dear family. The religion of Christ will give them one which will make them rich indeed."
~~~ Fisher Ames (author of the First Amendment) also wrote that the Bible should always remain the principle text book in America's classrooms.
~~~ John Jay (original Chief-Justice U.S. Supreme Court) said it is the duty of all wise, free, and virtuous governments to help and encourage virtue and religion. He also said, "Only one adequate plan has ever appeared in the world, and that is the Christian dispensation."
~~~ John Quincy Adams: "The United States of America were no longer Colonies. They were an independent nation of Christians."
Governor Morris of Pennsylvania (head of the committee that created the final wording of the Constitution AND the most active member of the Constitutional Convention) advocated that "education should teach the precepts of religion and the duties of man towards God."
An early House Judiciary Committee affirmed: "Christianity ...was the religion of the founders of the republic, and they expected it to remain the religion of their descendants." 97% of the founding fathers were practicing Christians and exercised their faith in public office, at work, at home, and had it taught to their children in their schools.
187 of the first 200 colleges in America were Christian, Bible teaching institutions. Entrance to Harvard required strong knowledge of the Bible.
Here is a website that is objective, from a guy who didnt really take either side. He just put up what was said by our fathers.
http://www.jameswatkins.com/foundingfathers.htm
Something interesting came to my attention, just not with this website but countless others out there is that people pull stuff out of context.
You say that you get angry with people like me ? How do you think I feel toward people who try to change or yank a sentence out of context to try to make a different point of view. Just not the history of our nation, but even things like the bible. You can make the bible a whole different story if you just pick and chose certain sentences out of it. I think people need to really focus on getting back to their roots of our founding fathers, really learn who they were. but not everyone is going to sit down and read endless books of their history and lives. That would take quite some time.
If you just google founding fathers were Godly men, or divinely inspired, endless amounts of information comes up from both points of view. Thats normal, because I dont care what topic a subject is, there is always people who have an opposing argument with their own evidence to show.
At the end of your post this really boggles my mind
Women being submissive ? You referring to about what it said int he bible for women to be submissive to their husband ? Like some slave or something ? I think im starting to get the idea you really never heard teachings from wise men, who takes that passage out of context and makes it into something its not. Women are supposed to be submissive to their husbands as in respecting their decision making. Woman are the back bones and support for their husbands, that is a very important role for women. Just like women are submissive to their husbands, the husband is submissive to the lord. RC Sproul ( christian philosopher gives great understanding of this ) as many other pastors you may hear , or that I listen to on WAVA . Now about God talking to me, I dont know how to answer that, because no where did i ever say anyting about god talking to me, nor the woman submissive thing.. your just making weird stuff up I guess. Or the belief in no sun.. now your getting a little weird :D
Religion does need to be in hearts of politicians. I didnt say in politics, but I believe men who are guided by divine inspiration would make a greater politician then people who arent. My proof ? Compare our world today to the world of the past. Can you not see were going down hill, or a decaying road ? You think society is getting better each day ? I wish i could say I see that, but its not. Sorry.
http://www.earlyamericanhistory.net/founding_fathers.htm
I also would like to add that the government NOW, and people of today are slowly trying to change what happened or was written in the past. The government is trying so hard to be politically correct and people screaming separation of church and state. This document was written by Jefferson, it included the name Christ in the original document, but later on christ was taken out of it. There are more documents of government history that seems to change over time. Its sickening to see people trying to change who we are. I want an america of the past, not like one we have today.
Damon,
First, your quotes aren't directed at what the founding fathers thought in regards to church and state being the linked. Belief in God and/or religion doesn't mean they wanted God and/or religion to be in our laws or in how we govern each other. On that, they were very clear...
James Madison...
"Strongly guarded is the separation of religion and government in the Consitution."
"Religion and government will both exist in greater purity, the less they are mixed together."
Ben Franklin...
"I have found Christian dogma to be unintelligible."
Thomas Jefferson...
"I contemplate with solemn reverance the act of the American people which declared that their legislature 'make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof' thus building a wall of separation between church and state."
And, my personal favorite, from the Treaty of Tripoli, written by John Adams, and ratified by congress...
"The United States was, in no sense, founded on the Christian religion."
And, by the way, the "Under God" thing was added in the 1950's. So regardless of the personal beliefs or religion of the founding fathers, they in no way thought of this as a Christian Nation, or wanted laws based in Christianity. You do see the difference between being as one of your quotes put it, "A nation of Christians" as opposed to being a "Christian nation", right?
Spent the morning cringing as MB. spoke across the media networks. Memorization of data, in this case talking points, is the lowest level of a hierarchy used to measure critical thinking. She did not leave her script no matter what show and which questions she was asked.
David, when is someone going to step forward and address the issue of the legality of members of Congress signing Pledges, such as the Norquest no tax pledge.?
It is common knowledge that those signing did so with the understanding that it would garner political support for their 2012 campaigns. One need only look at the knee jerk reaction when Mr. West of Florida shared a trace of willingness to compromise to see that this is a quid pro quo agreement that is not in the best interest of this country.
I have yet to hear Michele Bachmann come close to answering a question, and today's interview was no different. Why does the media keep letting her off the hook? Why can't you insist she answer a question - for example, a simple "yes" or "no" to the question of whether she would appoint an atheist or gay to her administration? Her answer today - that the person must obey the Consititution and support her views (duh!) - leaves open the possibility that she would reject a candidate because they were gay or atheist. She's avoiding her history. She made her anti-gay agenda a primary part of her political life, and now she's trying to downplay it. You can't let her get away with that!
I have yet to hear any politician of late directly answer a question, they just spin it into a statement that most of the time has nothing to do with the question asked.
I think Bachmann brings to much of her "own" agenda to the race meaning her thoughts on marriage and gays . She would never appoint a gay to any cabinate post or judge. As for business , why is her and her husband getting grants from the government to hepl run her so call business, she seems to forget to say anything about that .
An accurate assessment Pat. She danced continually and David you gave in to easily. You should have made her answer the question. Michele Bachmann's definition of "submissive" differs with the dictionary. Is she going to be President or her husband?
It is Congress' job to create the plan and none of the interviewers ever hold them accountable for that. They want someone else to be responsible so they can dodge questions when asked later. All funding bills begin in the House and the last I heard Mrs. Bachmann that is where you work.
I totally agree. Plus if she truly wants to represent the country why did she miss over FORTY votes in the Congress? Too busy giving the same stump speech to the same deluded crowds.
Papa Smurf & JennyQ, You are both right on point!! KUDOS!
Veedud, if you are not scared of the Tea Party with their religious agenda, than I am scared of you. Fundamental Christians are scary and have no business in politics. I do not have a problem with people have religious values, but some of these GOP members have taken it too far. Michele Bachmann has as much chance of being elected President of the USA as Donald Duck.
I hope u r correct, as I agree with u. Donald Duck can talk, I would have said Pluto.
My views were directed at the bias in the interview, not the particular politics. I don't agree with Ms. Bachmann on a number of issues, but I respect her as a combatant "in the arena," as opposed to a critic who sits on the sidelines and complains about things.
David does a good job most of the time, but as a fan of the show, I was disappointed that his opinions were on display as much as Ms. Bachmann's.
When he asked whether gay Americans, for example, would feel respected by Ms. Bachmann, his tone of voice and repeated questioning over the same point crossed the line from trying to get an answer to trying to debunk her views. Her views may not be respectful of people who are gay, but it's up to gay people to decide what offends them, not Mr. Gregory.
Yes, Michelle Bachman is right that homosexuality in America represents a culture of bondage and depression. As a gay person, I feel incredibly bound and gagged by a government that continues to deny me my basic civil rights. When I think of what I have heard in churches that homosesuality is an abomination I could become extremely depressed. So she is right. But I have no faith that she can be part of the solution, especially when she she insists that a gay couple with a child is NOT a family. Her mental health clinic business might be booming, but I cannot abide by her ethics. She is perpetuating the myth that gay people need become self-hating so that they can partake in therapy sessions. She is creating illness where it need not exist, and then profiting off it. Bad for America.
Religion is the root of all evil. Clearly people that follow a 2000 year old book written by men to control people are not the sharpest tacks in the box. Bachmann needs to take an in-depth science and evolution study course and work with facts instead of fiction. Religions also need to pay taxes like everyone else. Religion has no purpose in an intelligent 21st century society, and certainy no purpose in government. People who are so limited that they live their lives around a fairy tale truly are the danger to freedom and success and peace.
Actually scripture says that "For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil." 1Timothy 6:10 I got that from "the book" you were refering to. It is call The Bible or The Word of God and was written by men that were Called by God. I am fearful for those who do not head the warnings in the Living Word of God. You say "religion has no purpose in the 21st century society". I am fearful for those who think there is NO purpose for "God" in our society. You see MB is allowing God to guide her steps, not "a religion". You are missing the boat. We are "Christians", it is not a religion, but a personal relationship with God. You see God sent His only son, Jesus Christ, to die for all of us. This had to happen because we were sinners on the way to Hell. Thanks to the sacrifice our Savior made, if we choose to accept and follow Christ Jesus we are saved from our eternity in Hell! He died for all of us, me and you! I hope one day you can understand why we MUST have God in our society!!!! Galations 6:7-8 says "Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, this he will also reap. For the one who sows to his own flesh will from the flesh reap corruption, but the one who sows to the spirit will from the Spirit reap eternal life"
David had the right to ask the questions he asked, but he could have given her the chance to complete her answers! I think he was very rude!
Religion has no place in an intelligent and thinking government. Bachmann is a bird-brained bible thumper who does not have the first clue. She is also a hypocrite. They will be serving ice water in hell before this delusional permed fool gets even close to being president. She is worse that Obama.
Ya its amazing that our great and wonderful constitution could had ever been thought up of by such non intelligent , non thinking men who believed in God. Im glad we had great men who feared god, and had put great morals in place for society to follow. Its a shame that people want to exclude god from everything. What basis would our government define good or bad ? Right or wrong ? What defines you ? There has to be absolute truths to know what is good or bad, right, wrong.
Yes, Michelle Bachman is right that homosexuality in America represents a culture of bondage and depression. As a gay person, I feel incredibly bound and gagged by a government that continues to deny me my basic civil rights. When I think of what I have heard in churches that homosesuality is an abomination I could become extremely depressed. So she is right. But I have no faith that she can be part of the solution, especially when she she insists that a gay couple with a child is NOT a family. Her mental health clinic business might be booming, but I cannot abide by her ethics. She is perpetuating the myth that gay people need become self-hating so that they can partake in therapy sessions. She is creating illness where it need not exist, and then profiting off it. Bad for America.
Both my wife and I thought that this was a nasty inquisition of Michelle Bachmann. As she was answering your questions, you continually interrupted her. I think that that was very rude. Nobody likes it! I also thought that the Governor of Iowa was rudely interrupted several times also. If Meet the Press continues with tabloid journalism rather than indepth news, you will lose us as viewers. Let's go back to the way Tim Russert did it.
For sure, Gregory, you are no Tim Russert.
Your extreme liberal bias is showing.
Does it bother you when O'Reilly interrupts his guests every other sentence?
David is following the same format that Tim Russert did - to get the visitor's response to statements. Don't try to reinvent history. Also, if she is not answering a question, and simply spewing her talking points, then David has an obligation to get her to answer. Bachmann and her team know that time is limited and that, if she simply babbles on, she might get away with "non-answers," making her appear less out of the norm. David, you are a journalist. Keep pushing; keep questioning; keep seeking complete answers from all the candidates - including Obama when he is on!
Iowa Gov got cut off after he did a fine job of explaining how Canada's economy has made strides after their downgrade they cut the size of their government and lowered the coporate tax rate...HELLO..Did you hear Eugene Robinson say something about "yeah, it's because Canada had a big oil discovery" HELLO...if you want to create JOBS (a three letter word...Joe Biden) Drill baby Drill. Dave G wants to ask questions about religion and gay marriage. Dave it's the economy stupid!!! Remember the Nov 2010 elections (historic) smaller government and lower taxes....stop the spending... All you have to do is look to our friends to the north
Broads like Bachmann are part of the problem.... definitely not part of the solution. She is so delusional and smug in her magical beliefs. Disgusting how many have been brainwashed by their parents who were brainwashed before them, and so on.
13 questions about gays! Gregory has so much liberal bias that he has now lost all credibility of journalism.
Newsweek on the tube.
Maybe if she answered the question instead of dancing around it....he wouldn't of kept answering it.... what a concept ANSWER the QUESTIONS...two words to choose YES or NO!
As to the interview with Michelle Bachman, it is so uncouth of David Gregory to harp on the topic of religion over and over and over, as if having faith is a bad thing. He was playing the gotcha game again, as he usually does. Thankfully the congresswoman didn't fall into his badgering trap. What Gregory does every week is more than transparent; he is as biased as they come. The show should come with a warning or disclaimer, "caution, the following program contains content that conservatives may find extremely bigoted and tasteless." Meet the Press is a totally left wing program, and any semblence of fairness will not be tolerated. The show should be called Meet the Depressed. All you hear and see is the lefties trying to smear the right, and this show is supposed to be taken seriously. Come on, I might as well be watching looney Bill Mahr on HBO.
We she obviously does not speak for all equal people of this great country. This like her business( counseling center) will be her demise. "she repreatedly stated i am running for the president of the united states, could not even answe the questions... no she could not. she could not understand why she was getting these questions, a gay couple with adoptive children , is this considered a family ?........she could not answer it. a presedent is for all people, not just the rich.
Way too much hypocrisy out of the gate. You can't run on too many government handouts and accept ANY!!! farm subsidies or MEDICAID compensation for patients. ANY!!!! I can't get over the earlier interviews I saw at a Tea Party rally of retirees in their electric scooters. When questioned, they said they wanted less government in their lives, less government healthcare. When ask how they came into their scooters they - to a person - said, "Medicaid". I do not begrudge them their new mobility, but I do see a pattern in the Tea Party followers of less govt. aid, but don't see their aid as govt aid....
I think it's interesting how MB keeps touting herself as the "tip of the spear" when it comes to her failed congressional efforts. I think if she looked behind her she'd see that there is no spear--just one lone pinhead. I did think DG did a good job on raising the issue of whether MB would lead based on public opinion. Very telling.
IMO, Bachman is like ALL politians~liars, thieves, and crooks. Just wait, there's plenty of time for her skeletons to come tumbling out of her closets. The fact that her husband is a flaming queen will be one of them. His liasons can't be kept secret much longer, since she is unadmittedly anti-gay. Hide and watch! Blondie
What a lousy interview. It was a badgering. When Gregory didn't get the answer HE wanted, the GOTCHA moment he continued to badger. Asking a question she had just answered in the debate about her relationship with her husband Gregory badgered her on it. This was not an interview it was an inquisition on behalf of the Democrat party. Gregory needs to learn his role as a journalist if that is what he wants to be.
He didn't need to get an answer. He correctly framed the questions so if she tried to dodge, the real answer was blatantly apparent. She pretty much owned up to saying she will only appoint or work with people who share HER beliefs....nuff said. How does that play against "reaching across the aisle"?
David was just keeping her honest.
David does a great job at MTP. We all wish Tim were still alive, but David has taken on an incredible challenge with great care.
No one should vote for a politian who is either inept at using words correctly (saying "submissive" is the same as "respect") or is so hateful of woman and gays that she believes women should be submissive to men and that gays are under the influence of satan. So either she is inept at words or a hater or something else--not someone I would vote for for President or even to congress.
Inept is an interesting word. Many voted for Obama and he is the picture and very definition of inept.
Cute, but untrue and unproductive.
Republicans were in charge for 8 long and painful years. American did not get where we are today overnight. What short memories people have.
Anyway, MB is a poor choice for a candidate since she openly admits to associating gays with Satan and believes that women should be submissive to men. Or as she back paddles -- women should respect men. (Because in her world submissive means respect).
What a great role model for young girls and all Americans. Lets stay on topic.