The CNN Debate: GOP Rightward Shift on Display

[Flaylo]

James Zogby: The CNN Debate: GOP Rightward Shift on Display

Another disturbing example of this Republican drift toward extremism came in response to a question about whether or not the candidates would be comfortable having a Muslim American serve in their Administration. The question first went to Herman Cain, who had on a previous occasion indicated that he would "not be comfortable with a Muslim." In response, he elaborated on his views, saying his concern with Muslims was prompted by the concern that they "are the ones trying to kill us" and weirdly inserting that he did "not believe in Shariah law." He then went on to insist that he would single out Muslims for a pledge of loyalty to the U.S. before considering them for government service.

Newt Gingrich chimed in, adding that he believed that a loyalty oath for Muslims seeking to work in government was a good idea because, despite its being unpopular, "we did this in dealing with Nazis and... with the communists... we have got to have the guts to stand up and say 'no.'"

While Michele Bachmann, Tim Pawlenty and Rick Santorum were not asked to respond to this question, they have all been on the record making equally shameful comments about Muslims and raising fears about Shariah law.

Only Mitt Romney, already on the defensive because of his Mormon faith, offered a constructive comment. After paying lip-service to the anti-Shariah law mindset, saying that "we're not going to have Shariah law applied in U.S. courts," he went on to add that "we recognize that people of all faiths are welcome in this country. Our nation was founded on a principle of religious tolerance."

What was especially disturbing about this particular exchange was the silence of GOP leaders in the days that followed the debate. Their refusal to condemn these displays of bigotry and intolerance only adds to the concern that the party is courting extremist currents and, as a result, has continued on a dangerous rightward drift.

This is why those fuckers will fail, most Americans don't think like they think.

 

[Wacky Quacky]

You'd be surprised how many do. The GOP has done a damn good job of scaring the shit out of people.

And I'd be curious to know where you got any sort of numbers to lead you to believe that "most americans" don't think like that? Surely not the Huffington Post. They're major ideologues whose only concern is to further push their ideals. They're notorious for putting a liberal spin on every story they publish.

 

[C_Clayton_Jones]

It’s the mandatory hard right turn GOP presidential candidates are required to make any election year they have the nominating convention first.

It should moderate once the primaries are under way – the only question is what damage is being done now? The GOP is counting on the general voting public not currently paying attention.

 

[Bass v 2.0]

That the Democratic Party has become the third wing of the Republitard Party[that is under Obama] is very true.

 

[The Rabbi]

How many Muslims has Obama appointed?

 

[Bass v 2.0]

How many Muslims has Obama appointed?

How many Jews has he supported? You should be happy.

 

[The Rabbi]

How many Muslims has Obama appointed?

How many Jews has he supported? You should be happy.

Quite a number.
How many Jews serving in the armed forces opened fire on a base? How many rolled a grenade into an officers' tent? How many have committed terrorist acts?
'Tard.