Your hate is showing...esp. here.

I agree, too much money spending going on.

Are the Obama's so clueless that they can't see how bad this looks? Maybe they figure they should squeeze in all the first-class travel they can ..... while they still can. (they only have until Jan 20 2013). I'm sure they don't care about the cost of these lavish trips any more than the President cares about all those in our country that are suffering. This is not the best way to get re-elected, Mr. "Smartest Man in the World"

Actually the deficit is more like 1.5 t at least according to the Treasury Dept.

The problem with government is that all servants and their families run up huge tabs, but in the scheme of things it is a drop in the bucket. That is why cutting spending never gets done.

Look Senator McCaskill even said the other night that if taxing the rich more was the answer it would have been done a long time ago. It would help she concedes, but if all guesses are correct out of that deficit it would knock it down by 75 b. The government admitted just this past year well over 100 billion was wrongfully awarded to crooks, most of stemming from Medicare and Medicaid fraud.

It is just like Obama has bought and uses more limos that any other president. Again, in the scheme of things the cost is miniscule compared to the over debt. However what is does show is that this administration does not believe we have a spending problem. They have increased spending because they believe all spending, even if borrowed, is stimulus.

Americans see the country headed in the wrong direction. This should tell the WH something, but it doesn't.

The article says this is a "private" trip, so does that mean the Obamas are paying for this "weeklong" jaunt out of their own pocket? Just curious.

Systems down....does that mean it is Obama's white half that has managed to really screw America while his black half is on vacation? If Black is the answer I sure wish he would let that half shine. As for Mrs. Obama....well what in the world has she done well while her husband was in office?

What's tiresome is that any time anyone brings up anything that this president is doing - such as spending hundreds of thousands of tax payer dollars on unnecessary vacations when the country is in a financial disaster already - people bring up the race card! Geez already - drop it! The President and his family have had more vacations in his short term in office, than I've had in my whole life! This has NOTHING to do with race, this has EVERYTHING to do with the fact that the country is flat broke and the President and his family DON'T CARE!

The first lady also took her mother along also. And yes they have enough little trivial government agendas to make this a taxpayer funded vacation to the prez's homeland. This is certainly not about hate. It is about the arrogance of all people in government to flaunt their wealth when people in this country are starving and homeless and without jobs. Who really cares about Africa or any country other than our own right now for that matter. We need help in the United States. If these clown want to keep up their facade and spending millions on frivolous BS don't make it front page news keep it to yourself. We know none of the people in DC could care less about their constituents or any of the citizens of the United States along as they have all of their monies and perks that the government allows them while stealing from their subjects----us the taxpayers.

@System (post #1.8): That's all you have...hurling racial insults. Wow! Pull your head out. "It's really tiresome, really."

All trips taken by the Obama's are paid for by the taxpayers, including this 'goodwill trip' taken by Michelle and the girls and their cousins, friends, and 25 of Michelles 37 assisstants!

We're also paying for Obama's balls! That's golf balls folks...!

Also in today's news there's an article that the USA has no money to spend! Someone should let the Obama's know about this!

theboys - the tab that Michelle runs up while on this vacation and the tabs that other elected official run up might be a drop in the bucket on an individual level when compared to the national debt, but these become significant amounts when added together. That's a major reason why we are in this economic mess. Our wonderful (sarcasm) elected official think that their little special interest project is insignificant from a financial standpoint, but when added together, these cost billions and billions.

It does not take a Trillion dollars to send the President's wife and family to Africa. All it takes is what they are entitled to.

The white Presidents of this country have been f***ing up things for decades but now that we have a black President, it's the end of the world. It's really tiresome....,

Tiresome, is always referring to him as our "black president." How about referring to him as our president. As far as presidents go, people are still b!tching about Bush, Clinton, Carter and other past presidents.

Two wrongs don't make a right. The Obama's want to fix things in our country then maybe they should set the example make the cuts on their level and quit raising the taxes on the tax payers. We're broke!

Good. I hope she stays there.

lulz. is there anything obama (or his family or his administration or his party or so on) can do that the double wide crowd wont immediately condemn? in his own words, if he said the sky is blue, the tea bags would all be going 'nope'.

How about video teleconferencing? Are the taxpayers really paying for their trips? Or is it coming out of their own wealth?

zaruski, he could start by obeying his oath of office and following the laws of this land.

How's that "Obama money" going for you? At least the "double wide crowd", whatever that is, didn't embarrass themselves on tv during the election, saying he would pay their bills and give them Obama money.

@tax this

lol. 'start obeying his oath of office'. nice bumper sticker. how about some examples though?

btw, if you want to talk about embarrassment on tv during election, may i refer you to the endless misspelled tea bag signs? my favorite was 'are language is english'.

How many people are in Queenie's entourage??

I'm so happy to see someone enjoying my tax dollars in this time of plenty.!!

Bottom line ?

With our economy the way it is today it just looks really bad, no matter who does it. There seems to be an absence of " image projection" and how not only it looks, but how peoples perception of how it looks is. And perception in politics IS everything.

@Guy: You got my vote for your funny line: "I'm so happy to see someone enjoying my tax dollars in this time of plenty!!"

@NightHawk: You're right about "perception." Take Newt Gingrich, for example, for him to recently take a 10-day Med. cruise was completely ridiculous! Even though it is his money, it just sends the wrong message.

@ the Giligan...yeah..that sounds great... now the liberals can only call us half racist...since that is the excuse they use for someone with a brain speaking out against this unqualified man running this country...please liberals.... convince me that he knows what he is doing... you can't ...because he doesn't... has NOTHING to do with race.... everything to do with what he can't do!!!!RUN THIS COUNTRY!!!! In case you can't figure it out... there is way more to be concerned about than you social agenda and entitlements...WAY MORE!!!!

No the Liberals will call you what you are, full blown racist's. People plans and scheduals have been made. Do you expect the Obamas to stay in the WH tell the rest of the world, it might look bad to a small minded group of people if we take a trip. The truth is Nothing the POTUS or the First Lady do, will make you happy. Damned if they do Damned don't. Face it, hate is clouding your little minds! The First Lady has had many projects she has been busy doing. Look it up. Have some facts to back up your bitching.

Amused-Are you really that ignorant, that you think that a President pays for the trips himself. We the taxpayers pay for the President and his family to travel(read something). No matter if it is on vacation or business, though he doesn't do much of anything except vacation. As far as it not being American to voice you opinion, that is exactly what America is all about, the right to disagree and voice your opinion. Here is a fact, this President could care less about the American tax payers. All he does is take trips on my dime, I don't know about you but I am tired of seeing this guy apologize for America, and run My Country further in debt. Were is the change to the statuesque that he campaigned on, all he has shown is that he is a liar and that the statuesquewill not change anytime soon. You must have your head so far up your ass, that it is hard for you to see what is going on,well look how he handed the BP spill by not letting other country's help us with skimmers. Than he puts a moratorium on drilling. That put a lot of hard working Americans out of a job. So tell me something good this guy has done and why we shouldn't point out that he is a failure. I don't know why so many Americans would elect someone to be President that has never run a business, a town a state or anything else for that matter. All he knows how to run is his mouth and that just is no enough!!

I'll bet the first million from Sawah's next book that y'all were never this whiny counting all those trips our former pres took out to Crawford.

It's summer, this is our president's wife and kee-ids (<--just for you), y'all just gotta get over the reality there's going to be trips like this...but you won't/can't because you get the most enjoyment out of being mad about small shee-it.

How does one get so bitter and vindictive? Is it church? That is y'alls common denominator isn't it? Holier than thou? Better pray harder, cuz right now it looks like y'all are heading the wrong way with your pissy attitudes.

Be a better person, start today.

This is becoming really tiresome.. The rockstars in the whitehouse have no regard for our current situation, I believe their King and Queen approach is slowly making the USA look like children running the Whitehouse to people across the world

Best you can do Bill? Your post is filled with ignorant lies. You need to do a little bit of reading. Taxpayers pay for the President and First Lady to travel. Along with the secret service and others charged with their protection. (Necessary due to the fact that so much ignorance exists as espoused on this blog) We do not pay for his family (children) As for apologizing, America's corporate businessmen have done much around that world that SHOULD be apologized for. The greed shown by these people, the propping up of degenerate governments who kill their own people but create policies needed so our corporations could TAKE those country's resources, etc. The list of offenses goes on and on. Have you ever travelled out of the country Bill? I likely doubt it unless it was in uniform and insulated from the opinions of the populous. We're not very well liked Bill. And for good reason. But guys like you Bill, you can't see this. You're blinded by your own hate.

Amused, please site where it states the Obama Entourage pays for itself? The Obama's say it is a Goodwill tour and they are representing the USA so I will guarantee to you we are footing the bill for Michelle and that leech of a mother of hers, their spawn and their other spawn and the rest of the hanger ons to find their roots. No other president had his MOTHER IN LAW living full time at the White House until this group of leeches showed up. Look up P-Whipped in the dictionary and Obama's picture will be right there. This will go down as one of the most disgraceful 4 years in the history of the Presidency.

in his own words, if he said the sky is blue, the tea bags would all be going 'nope'.

Well that is because the only time he would say that is if the storm clouds were above and he needed to convince his devotees that everything was rosie and well a good portion of the country weren't being flooded out of their homes.

Now why did the community collapse "system down"? He has as much right as any to show who he is on the vine.

I don't really care about their trip. We all know that sour-faced b#$@h will take her little trips and the taxpayers will pay for it.

What bothers me is that Mandela ran one of the most criminal, corrupt regimes in South Africa's recent history and people look at him with stars in their eyes as though he's fantastic (sound familiar Obama).

Meanwhile, the entire country is a pit of poverty, despair and crime. However, you can not point out the obvious or people will call you a racist. It's a dangerous, foul country and Mandela helped make it that way, congratulations.

I have to admit, the race card is a bit convenient, for those of us, on the left. So President Obama is black. Remember when we used to use Bush's IQ, to trash him. The only difference is, everyone can see the color of President Obama's skin. With Bush, we had to wait until he opened his mouth! Or did we?

I am amazed, why people want to show their stupidity for nothing, do you racists really think you're supporting ODUMBO and family, you're protecting them from something? You make such idiotic quotes which you obviously know nothing about or care, you simply like to spew the gibberish. Most Americans are truly embarrassed to let kids and grandchildren see what the highest office and used to be most powerful office in the world, has become, you have to be embarrassed to explain or let people see them and explain their actions. If we're only half racist, does that mean ODUMBO is only half assed idiot?

Well let us hope that Michelle learned something from Mr. Mandela about understand and tolerance of "all". That in itself might make the cost of her jaunt worth while.

anindividual- WTF, you must be joking or on drugs.

No, AnIndividual has just been drinking the Obama Kool-Aid. Read his/her earlier posts about how anyone who disagrees with Obama is a "hater".

anin. you are far out. Get real.

I'm not a fan of Obama or his policies, but this news made me smile. Nelson Mandela is arguably one of the most positively influential men to walk the earth in his lifetime. He is the embodiment of tolerance and acceptance of all, regardless of race, gender or any other "difference". As someone who believes that race is made an issue all too much in today's world, I appreciate the sacrifices this man has made. AnIndividual--I too believe that this is a once in a lifetime experience for the Obama children and can point out little of this event that can be looked at negatively.

The fact of the matter is that all of our Presidents have overseas trips, as have the first ladies. They all take vacations. As a nation, do we need to cut spending? Absolutely, without a doubt!!! Is cutting a few trips really going to make a difference? Nope. Cutting spending where it matters (bailouts, social programs, funding other countries economies, etc.) is what is going to change things for America.

I too believe that this is a once in a lifetime experience for the Obama children...

And exactly why should the Obama children be entitled to this "once in a lifetime experience" at the cost of the American taxpayer? I don't think the American voter was electing the children back in 2008. What about all the other millions of children in this country besides the Obama children? Where is their "once in a lifetime experience"?

And exactly why should the Obama children be entitled to this "once in a lifetime experience" at the cost of the American taxpayer? I don't think the American voter was electing the children back in 2008. What about all the other millions of children in this country besides the Obama children? Where is their "once in a lifetime experience"?

Taxpayers do not pay far anything other than security on these private vacations. Food, housing and entertainment are covered by the Obamas, just as they would be for any other family.

http ://www.factcheck.org/2009/07/michelles-european-vacation/

Like I said, I'm not an Obama fan, but I get so tired of the nastiness of others who don't like him. His children and his wife are human beings. They are people. Why should hatred be directed at his children? People need to get a grip! Yes, the taxpayers foot a partial bill (security and Air Force 1), as we have done for every other President and their families. There is no difference here.

The "outrage" and arguments over petty things like these are red herrings that detract from the real issues facing our country: illegal immigration, unemployment, continued souring of our reputation, out of control spending, etc, etc, etc. The list goes on and on and on. I guess I choose to pick my battles and something this small certainly isn't one of them. I also choose not be negative about absolutely everything having to do with the Obama family. I don't believe he's a good leader, but I don't feel like I need to rip his family for that.

Taxpayers do not pay far anything other than security on these privatevacations. Food, housing and entertainment are covered by the Obamas, just as they would be for any other family.

It would be interesting to see the accounting records once this is all over and done to see exactly who paid for what. Someone is paying for all the aides and assistants thattravel with this circus, and I seriously doubt that the Obamas are footing the bill for them.

mmr_bzn-

even IF taxpayers are not directly/openly picking up the tab for these trips, presidents have access to a slush fund that is completely unreported and unaccountable-

who's taxes do you think fills and replenishes that account?

I have no problem with the children attending her Africian vacation but HER Mother and cousins? They have been included in EVERY visit she has gone on. Remember her vacation in Paris? Mrs. Obama's mother and many cousins went there and shopped and shopped. There is NO way I believe the Obamas paid for that trip out of their pockets. Since when is the extended family allowed to move in the White House??!!

pmark-1871008

mmr_bzn-

even IF taxpayers are not directly/openly picking up the tab for these trips, presidents have access to a slush fund that is completely unreported and unaccountable-

who's taxes do you think fills and replenishes that account?

You may be right, and then again, you may be wrong. Like I said in my previous comments, this is such a small issue to me in the face of the real problems we've got. I think the American people need to pick their battles and in my opinion, this just isn't worth it! I know many people disagree with me and that's okay! That's part of the beauty of this great country! :)

mmr-

if NOTHING else- their actions are a perception problem-

and ....perception is everything-

they continually give off the vibe and visuals that they do NOT care about our great country and its citizens- which is, deep down probably exactly the case with them

perception is everything

Yes it is, where do you get yours?

The dumpster?

@ABCxyx, who says: "No, AnIndividual has just been drinking the Obama Kool-Aid. Read his/her earlier posts about how anyone who disagrees with Obama is a "hater"."

The problem is Mr. or Ms. ABCxyz is not that there are those who disagree with Mr. Obama. If a rational person disagrees, they will state why they disagree with certain actions or policies and then present sensible reasons why they disagree and how the matter in question could have been handled better. There are in fact people who disagree with Mr. Obama and engage in discourse on the subject of their disagreements as I have described above.

Those you term "haters" exist and they exist in abundance. The "haters" can be distinguished from those that simply disagree with Mr. Obama by the vitriol which they spew. They accuse him of being a Socialist, they accuse him of ruining the country, they accuse him of stupidity, they alter his name in childish ways in order to try to insult the man and engage in other puerile, ad hominem attacks.

I noticed that the "haters" appeared as soon as Mr. Obama had assumed office. Withing days of his taking up the Presidency, the "haters" were angrily demanding to know why Mr. Obama had not fixed every problem in the USA while trotting out their verbal abuse! As though anyone was capable of working such miracles in a few days time. Disagreement is one thing and irrational hatred is another.

Oh and just in case you want to make an ad hominem attack on myself for my opinion, please be advised that I did not vote for Mr. Obama and I am not a supporter of either the Democratic Party or the Republican Party. I am just someone who is not blinded by prejudice and am able to see the obvious.

Some of these responses speak for themselves. All obvious. Sad. Sad for our country.

Oh - and I am not one bit sorry to not be impressed by those who hate. Not one bit. Americans are better than that! And I said nothing about "anyone who disagrees with Obama." There is a huge difference between vile personal attacks and disagrement in regard to policy.

Sure looks like the Haters of the world are getting more and more thin-skinned. The rather be destructive rather than constructive by coming together and actually sharing ideas in the spirit of co-operation. With Haters and Mean People, it is their way or no way. No impressive at all and certainly nothing constructive about it either. Rant on though - knock yourselves out. The next election cycle will quieten you soon enough.

MMR-Tax payers fund the whole trip including were they stay. First you are right in the scheme of things this is small but it shows exactly how detached from the issues facing America this President is. He should be cutting back and leading by example. It shows that there will be no CHANGE to current spending trends during his administration as he campaigned on. Do they have a right as the First Family to take trips with there Family and Friends funded by USA tax payers absolutely, is it a good idea that the take so many trips and vacations when most people are having a tough time feeding themselves, no. The reason is that it show that this President has NO IDEA of the challenges that face Americans. Yes he says that he does but his actions show us that he in fact does not. All I no is that I can't wait until this guy is out of the White House.

None of you have any idea about the presence of the Chinese and Russians in Africa. None of you realize what a great symbol our President's family, our First Family, is or the impportance and influence that will come from this visit. Guess your talking poiints on that have not been issued yet. But this is all 21st Century stuff - what do you care!

Here, copied, is what I said about hate:

"This article has nothing to do with that. Your hate is showing, too. Most Americans are not haters and I, for one, are sick and tired of the Haters and Mean People of any ilk. Give it a rest and get real. If you were sincere, you would be posting where the subject is about economics. This subject is about our First Lady, her and our President's children and family representing the USA in Africa. Their sincere interest is obvious if you look. It is an honor for them personally and as representatives of our country on another continent to meet with Mandella. It is some good in the news.

Stop with all the hate already. It is obvious and you cannot deny what is in our faces all the time with you people: Mean, irrational hate."

See? You who hate Obama came up with the knee-jerk reactions that I was talking about Obama Haters. I was talking about Mean People and Haters in general.

Bill1488--the taxpayers do not fund these entire trips. I have issues trying to put links in my posts (hopefully Newsvine will get it fixed), but you can check www. factcheck.com.

I agree that there isn't much leading by example going on. I also agree that this administration doesn't truly understand the challenges facing "everyday" Americans. But I don't think any politicians or former administrations have either. This country is run by elites who haven't had to work terribly hard for much of anything in their lives--they're all disconnected, unfortunately.

Came to this board because it shows exactly what I suspected. Personal hatred of Obama, the First Lady, even the children and extended family.

Of course you are all living in denial but the truth wins out every time. Go back over the past three years and tell us how many of your predictions and slanders regarding Obama have proven true? Go to a fact check site and check your "facts". They don't hold up.

No need to prove your insinuations. They evolve into the truth by osmosis on the Right. Just say it! The truth is meaningless to many of you. You believe the means are justified by the end result. In this case that means irrational hatred of your political opponent.

BS, this whole UNNECESSARY trip for the Odumma posse was funded entirely by US the taxpayers. Do you really think curious George is going to pay for any of this out of HIS pocket while he doesn't have to? Hell NO!! And for them to drag the entire family along? Tell me this isn't a vacation of some sort. Looks like a family taking total advantage of the perks that come with the job, bringing their whole family along on these trips while WE foot the bill. Sad to see so many on here that are completely ok with this disregard of OUR needs here and the issues we're facing as a nation.

I don't have any African roots that I know of, but I wouldn't mind going on an African Safari for a week "Presidential Style". I am not "playa-hating" the fact that the Obama's are in a position to travel, or that they are feeling "Home" proud. As an American I see the racism issue has more to do with the "Hyphen" Americans. Some white dude with a strong Irish "Home" pride that seems to make every day St. Patrick's day would irritate me as an American just as much as some African chick who seems to forget where "HER" ancestry aka "HOME" really is, which is America. Last time I checked there was no question where Michelle was born, and it wasn't South Africa. I hope her "African Safari" is as much about getting a feel for her ancestors life as it is an "Eye Opener" that she isn't South African! She is American.

We are all decedents of cave men/women, should we all pay homage to the cave? I would think more of ANY nationality if the person claimed to be an AMERICAN with foreign ancestry. After all most everyone has ancestry that extends to Europe or South America. At one time the land was one mass! So now what?

I guess it will take deep space exploration or a space alien invasion to get over this petty race bull@!$%# and pull together as "Man Kind".

I must give props to Obama for letting his woman go on an African Safari without him. I personally would have been tempted to join my family. As much as I don't care for Obama I know for a fact the only reason he is not with his family is because all of us would be throwing a FIT. He should have went or at least catch up with them, of course that would be seen as wasting "more" tax payer money.

I suppose the best time to have taken a trip like this would have been "after" Obama's Presidency, but would they be greeted the same? The answer is NO. Would they have been protected the same? The answer is NO.

I just hope these "lone" family vacations by Michelle arent a signal that the relationship with Obama is fading. I'd like to think my family wouldn't have a good time on a vacation without me, I know I wouldn't want to vacation without my spouse! I'd cancel the vacation before I left without her! Perhaps this vacation speaks more towards the integrity of Michelle Obama than her Husband. Kind of strange if you ask me. Poor Obama, he can't rock the boat.

It is always a vacation in your mind. You hate the Obama's so much you cannot see the benefit of them working outside of the country. There is nothing unusual or exceptional about these trips at all.

You are simply in complete denial. The rest of the world matters as well and I am sure it galls you see Mrs. Obama meet Mandela. You are just another irrational American full of misplaced anger. If this was a GOP/TP politician you wouldn't give any of this a second thought.

Why is it necessary to call President Obama names? Do you really think you're being persuasive because you called him Odumma?

I DO disagree with the government funding so many people going on this trip. Even 1 drop in the bucket contributes to the whole gallon.

However, those who think we can ignore foreign policy and goodwill relations with foreign countries clearly didn't pay attention in history class. Or political science class. Or their US Government classes.

We complain about the influx of illegal immigration and drug trafficking, but you don't want to develop relationships with the government of the other country so we can work towards a solution. We bemoan the loans we've made to other countries, but forget other countries have made loans to us. We want to take a cruise to Italy, and expect to be safe in International waters and our passports to be recognized. If we get cancer, we want the best medicine, even if it was developed by someone in Germany. Positive relationships matter. Part of our presidents job is to maintain positive relations.

AnIndividual--"mean people and haters"-are you 16 years old by chance?

Jack-452670

BS, this whole UNNECESSARY trip for the Odumma posse was funded entirely by US the taxpayers.

Jack, do yourself and everyone else a favor and educate yourself a bit. Use Google and read it for yourself. If you don't want to use Google, than just check out www.factcheck.org.

THIS is the kind of stuff I was referring to in my post above (#2.7). All of the extreme nastiness is childish and detracts from peoples' messages. One can disagree with Obama and his policies all he/she wants (I do), but the name calling, extreme vitriol, rush to judgment regardless of facts and hatred spouted at Michelle Obama and their children is just ridiculous! (And yes, I see the same type of crud from people referring to former Presidents as well. Two wrongs don't make a right.)

What has happened to civility??

mmr_bzn

Like I said, I'm not an Obama fan, but I get so tired of the nastiness of others who don't like him.

My question for you is do you feel the same about the nastiness that is directed towards George Bush or Sarah Palin. A lot of nastiness directed towards them! Sarah's kids get picked on a lot and they don't deserve it, they're kids!

Stull: Absolutely! In the comment just above yours, I addressed that (although I only listed former Presidents, but I'd extend that to any politicians' families). It's really sad how some people get so caught up in being part of the problem instead of contributing to a solution. Brow-beating and being nasty doesn't really get anyone anywhere and it certainly doesn't sway an individual, or group of individuals. Today's politics are so full of vitriol! Dems, Repubs, Independents, everyone want to point fingers, call names and take pot shots.

You're right that GWB, Sarah Palin and their kids had a lot of ridiculous, nasty things said about them that had nothing to do with politics or issues at hand. The same thing happened with Chelsea and Hillary when Bill Clinton was in office. I don't know if it's just human nature to be so jerky about something you don't agree with, or if it's more a symptom of modern (the past 30 years) politics... Either way, it's pathetic in my opinion! I keep holding out hope that someday, the public will be able to discuss and argue issues with civility and without stooping to personal pot shots. I won't hold my breathe... :)

Thank you! : )

anindividual,

you cannot be so naive or mentally challenged that you believe the nonsense you are spouting. Lady Obumba is interested only in

• having a great time pretending she is doing something of significance at the taxpayers expense
• looking important to the folks back in the ghetto
• making pointless political statements
• spending every dime she and her loathsome husband can steal from real Americans
• getting her left wing continuing education unit points so as to stay in good standing with the American Socialist Party

Are we trying to accomplish something, I'm trying to calculate value of all waste on one site, and there are how many, and the real subject of all. It's of no value to point out lunacy of racist ODUMBO protectors. They can't be educated, Most work in campaign or white house. There job is to spew same garbage regardless. Hopefully we can give a touch of worthwhile insight to someone, such as someone quoting factcheck as source of truthful information, you realize they operate 0out of white house, correct. You truly expect anyone to pay attention, you base your credibility on them? Common sense for some who can read, taxpayer pays for all ODUMBOS campaigning, it's government planes and vehicle who chauffers family around it's secret service etc and you want us to think they sit down every week and determine which were trips were business, which were entertainment, just like you file your receipts for tax records also. When all else fails use common sense or find someone who has some.

I guess some people will just never get it.

If times were better fine... but right now, no I don't get it.

I am pleased you are finally discovering the real you, clotho.

A 20 minute "visit" for 20 minutes of photos w/ Mandela (and stupid ones at that). Is that the "justification" for sending Mrs. O and relatives on vacation to Africa?

According to

No Taxpayer Money for Personal Expenses

Katie McCormick Lelyveld, Michelle Obama’s press secretary, told FactCheck.org in an e-mail: "All personal travel and expenses incurred were paid for personally."

While policy dictates that tax money does not cover any personal expenses, the cost of security has historically been placed on the taxpayer.

During any given trip, local law enforcement plays a big role in protecting presidents and their families. However, the United States Secret Service is the primary agency used to protect presidents, their families and some other members of an administration. According to the Congressional Research Service, the Secret Service is charged with protecting not only current presidents, vice presidents and their families, but also former presidents, children of former presidents under the age of 16, visiting heads of foreign states and other distinguished foreign visitors, and major presidential and vice presidential candidates. The same even goes for former vice presidents: Former Vice President Dick Cheney recently requested an additional six months of secret service protection – a request which was granted by President Obama.

Clotho, Your right and you are definitely one of them.

The president in my opinion is doing no more than the others, on one had comments while Bush and all the others were occupying the office. I don't agree with all he does but gosh if others thought they could do any better they should try running the country instead of their mouth.

Libya ring a bell? There's 1. He invaded Pakistan to kill Bin Laden, there's 2...

Thats right and we now have the 100k soldier still there from Obamas invasions.......ooooohhhhhh yeah we dont. He was smart enough to use strategy. Not the old throw a million bodies at the problem & hope it goes away.

American are not used to having a THINKER in the White House

Katrina, American's are not used to having a socialist in the White House! Actually he's both a socialist and a failure as President. He may be a thinker, Katrina, but he's definitely not a leader!!

A one term socialist and failed leader!

Katrina - people are not used to having a "thinker" in the White House because no living person can remember when the last thinker was in office.

Where are the troops? He aided nato on air strikes.

Nick - you forgot to mention that Obama evaded legal rules when sending air strikes to Libya, but then turns around and tells Congress essentially that he can do whatever he wants without their approval.

katrina, a thinker in the white house ? It must be the chef because there's no one else that has a half of a brain to think about anything but spending America into oblivion. The hurricane must have blown away your brain.

Really.....What he is, is African American MAN in charge, whether it be 1 or 2 terms. He is the MAN in charge, the children are left the internet to WHYYYNNNNEEEEE!!!!!;>( ;>(

What he is, is African American MAN in charge, whether it be 1 or 2 terms. He is the MAN in charge...

Katrina - that doesn't classify him as a thinker, only someone who had enough money and influence to get elected. The thinkers are smart enough to not run for office.

A "thinker" all right. He steadily thinks up ways he can break his oath of office and trample on the Constitution.

Katrina,

that must have been a typo....surely you meant stinker.

Katrina,

I was going to leave you alone since everyone has pointed out the obvious, but I just couldn't. A thinker really a thinker. The only thing he thinks about is spending my and every other tax paying Americans money. He's a thinker tell you what maybe he should just think about having a piece of chicken and leave running the country to the real thinkers.

I wonder if Mandela really knows what/who the Obamas truly are??!! We do.....we'll let him know .....just ask

To be historically fair, Mandela did indeed employ violence and threats in his efforts to end apartheid. He was responsible for coordinating violent sabotage campaigns against military and government targets. He prepared his followers for an armed struggle against the government in the name of ending apartheid.

I'm not saying he wasn't a great man and visionary, but he also wasn't a peaceful protestor. He was guilty of the crimes that sent him to prison, regardless of the rightness of his goals.

As Mandela and Obama have learned, there is a paradox in the necessity of war in order to promote peace. It's how the world works.

The answer to your problem is simple,sir: a) people should not buy homes they cannot afford; b) people should only buy cars they can afford to put gas in; c) Hispanics, Asians, Africans, etc. come here and find work...why can't we? Because we are entitled.

Stop blaming the president - any president for OUR problems and lack of discipline. Go back to school, pick up another trade, and STOP CRYING!!!

Goju1 Large swaths of the job market only goes to Illegals, They work for less pay, Now they have infiltrated our services Market and are lowering wages across the board, You need to get educated on the subject before you speak.

nicky, G.W. was a real president that cared about Americans, you can't say that about Damien obama.

That's different. Bush is white.

Not true, sir and I am very educated in this area. I am a college professor and I teach MANY students from abroad who are LEGAL. I also see the Asians who sell wigs, open restaurants, nail salons etc. Hispanics who work as housekeepers, cooks, etc. They perform small jobs and save their money until they can do better. The jobs we turn out noses up at, they call opportunity...the same thing our ancestors called it. I see it every day and it happens. If they can do it, so can we.

David,

your idiocracy is showing!!!!!!!

Such ignorance. Do really want to talk about taking money out of the pockets of...then let's talk to Bush about the two useless wars he has had us in for 8 years that was not paid that we are still paying out of the pockets of.

When I look up the word ignorant I should see your picture.

What we need to do is spend more money getting rid of the idiots like you. One day you will be begging the likes of the Obama's to save your hide. Then what? Can you say EGGFACE???

Bush go a free ride for eight years and you paid for it DUMMY, where was you cry then. Of I forgot, President Obama is black and how dare he or his family.

HATER!!!!

Dude, the man is a millionaire - unlike you.

Does it actually feel good being so bitter?

We have to get rid of this freeloader in 2012. Odumba and that butt ugly woman have lived high on the hog long enough.

Where did you stand when the Bush family took its vacation. Don't be a hater. He is your President and they are the first family, but most of all they are black doing what you whites have done for years.

I am totally loving it!! And he is going to be your President again.

Where did you stand when the Bush family took its vacation

They stand with the crickets.

I'll tell you what she will do...She will take her PRINCETON LAW DEGREE AND FIND A JOB!!! What will you do? Continue to hate her?

Find a job? With the law license she LOST? She and her husband will continue to live off of US long after they are out of DC.

goju1, now just tell me where she would find a job at ? There ain't no damned jobs in this country. Foolish one.

Silly people...mis-informed as usual...Please read the following..

Following law school, she was an associate at the Chicago office of the law firm Sidley Austin, where she first met her future husband. At the firm, she worked on marketing and intellectual property.^[4] She continues to hold her law license, but as she no longer needs it for her work, it has been on a voluntary inactive status since 1999.

In other words, she will continue to do what she has done prior, or consult, or get the license reinstated. It's called "She's got options." So I say to those who refuse to read and merely go on gossip...WHAT WILL YOU DO???

" I didn't like America until my husband ran for president." Who said that ? Liberals are ignorant of ALL facts. Gullable too.

Michelle Obama didn't say that, so I give up. If you meant to quote the First Lady (as indicated by quotes), she actually said,

"For the first time in my adult life, I am really proud of my country because it feels like hope is finally making a comeback."

http://www.newsweek.com/2008/03/12/alienated-in-the-u-s-a.html

So who is ignorant of facts and gullible? :)

David,

Your ranting about Michelle Obama will not solve your personal problems. You were wrong about the lack of jobs in this country. I don't mind blogging with folks. But people like you just jump from subject to subject trying to poke holes in anything. More importantly, I hope you realize both Michelle and the President won the election and were working Americans prior to the presidency. They are both African Americans who went to school, found jobs, and EARNED what they have. They took their opportunity to realize the American dream and took it all the way to the top. You, on the other hand, are like all the rest of the haters. I am black and I don't blame white folks or the President for the lack of my success. I am taking accountability for my destiny. I don't waste time blaming others because it is useless.

You speak as if you have no job or are having difficulty finding one. Blaming the Obama's won't help you one bit. Good luck with your search for employment.

David,

Get the quote right, your ignorance is showing. You speak of liberals being ignorant of ALL facts. Really? And you can't even quote someone correctly. Yeah, I'm impressed - NOT.
As the GOP continues to create agendas that will put the middle class of America on the road to extinction - it's idiots like you keep drinking their kool-aid. Cheers.

David Crowe, it's spelled "gullible". Also, perhaps you're job-hunting in the wrong areas. My company has office jobs paying upper-30's that recent college grads are turning up their noses at. The dear tykes are too entitled, I guess.

As for first ladies who take trips, please be sure to register your displeasure here, too, at Laura's and the twin's vacations. We had a recession then, too, as well as two hot wars. The difference is that now that the cost of the wars is actually counted in the budget (instead of the previous administration's practice of keeping two sets of books), it's a problem. Anyone else sense a double standard here?

Why so bitter? Get out and work harder like they tell you on faux...good for the goose is good for the gander, right? Why are you so lazy? Only poor people care about what everything costs. So somehow you think you're entitled to vacations? All that money rich people make is off limits, so don't go looking for a hand out. Why don't you do something to improve your life instead of just complaining about how good other people have it? What, they didn't work hard to get what they have? Don't tell the rich people how to spend their money. You think we should just be able to steal it with 4% higher taxes?

There, did I get them all?

Save your money and take a vacation. We are middle-class Americans who like to take a couple of weeks off in the summer, so we decide where to go, how much it is going to be, and SAVE. It's amazing how much money can be found in your personal spending patterns.

I think I just threw up in my mouth?

South Africa is what the Confederacy would look like today if those yahoos had succeeded in defending their "states rights". Black majority ruled. lol. The U.S. would be overrun with white "immigrants" from Georgia and Alabama.

Sam..I think I just threw up in US citizens mouth now!

What a load of sour grapes. Get your degree, then a Masters or any higher level - build a support group, and run for office. Maybe you too can be president - or have a better job at least to allow you the lifestyle which you would enjoy more. Sheesh.

Well said, thank you!

Thank you gtouch for centering on the issue...it is the economy and following Spain etc..this African trip is so in-the-face of the American families who are struggling. It is not a racial issue..it is an economic issue. Only the real racists try to couch their blind support with racial posts whenever there is justified criticism of Obama...and this is just one!

Obama needs to go

One and OUT!!

So in other words, everything that wasn't a problem then, is a problem now?

Convenient, very convenient...

Seems to me/some there was a huge disconnect during the last "adminstration" as well - maybe y'all just didn't notice? Why?

That argument is lame. It's like a heroine addict saying...at least I didn't use meth!

You and me both, would love to never see or hear about them ever again!

Yes Jack, you've already made your bigotry and racism known in the other comments you've made in Newsvine. You must be so proud to be a Pure White Christian Heterosexual American: The BEST race in the world, it's too bad we all can't be Pure White Christian Heterosexual Americans, the world would be such a better place, wouldn't it? :rolling eyes:

Bush has not been President for at least 100 plus rounds of golf 40 b ball games a couple hundred televised ball games a half dozen world vacations and at least a dozen domestic trips ago?

With all the time Bush took clearing brush from the texas ranch.....there need not be any fire hazards left in Texas!!!!!!!!

If you lived in AZ you would better understand what a good thing that is.

You stated that Michelle Obama has served this country well...did you really just post that ridiculous comment?

Wow! All of this over a vacation? Those who holler it's not race probably didn't post any comments when the dear Bushes were in office.......... Before 2010, if anyone totally bad mouthed and disrespected the President of the United States like you people are doing, you would be screaming treason!!! The biggest thing holding our President back now is the Senate and House!

Bush and Cheney almost destroyed this country and the rest of the world too.

..The son that shook his hand...He'd better count his fingers!

Jeep, lousy transmissions on those Libertys

couldn't pay me to own a jeep....our son had 2 and nothing but trouble.....don't know why he didn't learn after the first one.....oh that's right, the unions were videotaped last year, outside at their break and lunch, smoking marijuana and drinking....yeah, that's the car I would want to buy!!!

Of please, Jeep is the last car I want - FORD is the only car company that didn't take a handout from the present government. If I have to finally turn in my 12 year old car, Ford is it. I will never thank this half-black president or his wining/dining wife and extended family. Shame on all you drones for falling for this act!

No one at Jeep stands outside and smokes marijuana. I had that misconception myself, until I worked at Jeep, as a contingency nurse, for a couple of summers, 2000 & 2001, I had an aortic valve replacement. The workers treated me with respect and merited my respect, in return. One night (3-11) I sent three men to the hospital because, they were having myocardial infarcts. Most of the workers asked for was Motrin because they have muscle spasms in their back and shoulders, from lifting heavy doors. Ibuprofen is hardly an illegal substance. So get over your 70s attitude, anyone even suspected of using drugs are tested. You must be thinking of Bush's escapades or even Laura's.

As for the quality of cars, they are safe enough, to have my grand children ride in them and if any body dares, to say one derogatory remark, about my grand children, I would make Sarah Palin, look like a kitty compared to my "Mama Bear."

All of these post prior to mine, were so mean spirited and hateful. Especilly since George, had more vacation time, then any president, in recent history. And let us not forget President Obama was a "working president" BEFORE he took office. Remember when he was asked to save the financial institutions?

I will never understand how anyone can defend George and Dick, who lied and got thousands of our soldiers killed and wounded, along with tens of thousand of innocent Iraqis and yet you paint President Obama as the evil one. I cannot help believe a lot of this hatred is based on bigotry.

I was supposed to meet the president too. Due to security reasons, I was not allowed to participate. One day, I will meet President and Michelle Obama and President and Hillary Clinton, as well. No mater what anyone else thinks of them , they were better for this country than any Republican we have had since Eisenhower!

Lastly, the thinly veiled bigotry of the first posts, only prove the Untied States has a long way to go before equal rights will be for all. Anyone who believes they are "better" because of skin color or sexual orientation, wealth, education has a lot to learn about life. The last eight years, of my nursing career, was spent,as a hospice home care nurse. I was part of a team of professionals, who care for the dying and their loves ones. People from all walks of life. Death has no prejudices because it comes to all of us. Any of you, who believe you are of more value because, you are wealthy, white, educated, or any other perceived notion, of elitism; has a few lessons to learn. You cannot take it with you. Not your body or your worldly possessions and death is the great equalizer. No one will have an advantage over anyone else, in our next life. And you may be surprised who opens the door, to see if you are worthy of entering. Stop with the vengeance and the hate.

HAhahahahahaha Contingency Nurse, what is that? You mean you called in when the Regular nurse was out sick from smoking to much pot? Nightline video taped the fools drinking and smoking on Lunch breaks. What are you a security risk hahahahahahahahahahaha. You sanctimonious fool

Soupy:

Contingency means per Diem or per day. I was and am certified a Hospice and Palliatives care. I have, over forty years of nursing experience. I was at Jeep because I was unable to lift patients after my open heart surgery. I bet you saw the videos on FOX, your station for pretend news and illiteracy.

I am hardly scantamonius, because I am not Republican.

When you can hold a child in your arms when he is dying or comfort the childs mother, then you can call me names. When you can attend four or five funerals in a week, then you can call me names. When you can help someone who is suffering, to be at peace, then you can call me names. When you tell a young wife her husband has "just died" then you can call me names. When you have stood while a neurosurgeon tells a family, their loves one has inoperable brain cancer then you can call me names.

I do not believe you are a Republican or a Democrat, you are an agitator, who thinks he/she can insult others, because these posts are anonymous. But I can tell a lot about you, from your lack of knowledge and your condescending ways.

..No it was actually JFK's mistress ..Marilyn Monroe ..

Gregoryis - that's right. Use the race card to blame others for disagreeing with the way that this president mishandles this country. That has nothing to do with race but everything to do with incompetence, arrogance, egotism, etc.

Sorry, the race card is no longer valid.

Oh please, here we go again. This Obama, that is African-American haters, make ugly racist statements, someone calls them on it and they complain that were are playing the race card. In other words, they are saying 'We have the right to say anything mean, ugly and racist against the Obama's because after all they are black and therefore should not be the President and First Lady of the United States, but anyone who objects to any personal insults against them, not political, not policy difference, but ugly racist personal comments against, well, then they are playing the race card.' I read these comments about this wonderful and fine lady that our president has chosen to be his wife, and I can only come to the conclusion that these people have a severe racial problem.

He didn't choose her, he is so P-whipped she grabbed him by the collar and said "your marrying me little man" and he said "yes dear". What other President has his MOTHER IN LAW living full time at the White House with him? None. This group leeches have to go before they drain us dry.

Most presidents do not have young children, and it is a blessing their own grandmother can be the childcare option.
If it were me, I'd jump at the chance - but I already told my kids not to bother ever being President, who needs the aggravation and insults? And for little pay, in the grand scheme of things.

Childcare Option? Hahahahahahahaha. They are in the most secure building in the World. Childcare bahahahahahahahahaha. She is an old leach. She called the Laura Ingram radio show one day and was screaming about how hard Michelle has it and then hung up. The call was traced back to, wait for it, the White House. She even used her first name. The Chicago leeches are stupidest bunch ever to go 1600 Pennsylvania.

Soupy:

I believe you need child care. You have "haha' all over these post and have said nothing. Maybe, you are the one in the video, smoking marijuana. Go get some soap and ask you mommy, to wash out your bigoted mouth. Does she know you are using the computer? Are you even potty trained?

I have to wonder about the likes of Soupy, Does it feel good to you, to spend your life being hate-filled and bitter and angry? Is that what this precious life means to you. You are criticizing a wonderful lady who has done good things with her life. She and her children have visited a wonderful man who spent his life making our world a better place for all, even you Soupy.

..Yes it's like a lost episiode of the "Cosby Show".....I'm waiting for Theo to come walking in any minute...

Me too Luke.... and you are just so special too !!!!!!

Luke, you have a reality deficit. Yep Bush did increase the deficit but nothing like your Messiah has done. As far as the taxpayer funded vacation goes I just wish Obummer himself was with them. He can't do as much damage when he's outside the country with the rest of the "citizens of the world."

you are incorrect......many of us complained about them during their tenure.....and because some of the populace didn't see it then, does not make it right now, does it?

Luke: Save your energy, I have seen these same people, on every site, that gives a positive view, of President Obama or Michelle. They are more worried about their non existent league of candidates. Since they cannot brag, about the anemic pack, of GOP trolls, running for president; they have to express their hostilities and disappointments, like a sniffling school children. Thank God they are not old enough to vote! Anyway, they do not act like adults.

Oh it just feels so good, to sit and brood and hate, while others, such as the Obama family go out and live and work. It's much easier to sit and brood and hate.

I know, I just wet my pants.

So what extraordinary thing did you two lovers do today?

Polish your bitterness so it's even more bitter?

111pct: Niki isn't even potty trained. I told you, we're arguing with the peanut gallery. Or maybe I over estimated their maturity. They are probably still viewing Barney videos!

It's the First Lady, her mother and two small children, who were not elected to office. What would you prefer that they be doing to fix the economy, sweetie? You know the President is NOT with them, right? The First Family is doing what every single First Family has done, but for some reason people like you hold them to a higher standard. Why is that, I wonder...

And yes, Obama will most likely be President until 2016.

zzzzzzzzzzzzzzz

Clotho, Obama most likely will be president until 2016? Don't sound so confident there? Imagine the freeloading in the second term when they don't have to face the voters in 2016? The Obama leeches will be running wild unless of course the fawning liberals try to repeal the 22nd amendment so the Almighty can run again. After all, how can we and the rest of the world survive without him and the rest of his leeches.

The Obamas freeload and the Bushes did what? Advertise America's best virtues? This is sounding more and more raciest as it goes along.

Maria, point out the racist comments please?