Charlie Rose

Pierre, Canada  09/13/2007 11:35 PM Report

J'admire la clarte de vue et l'intelligence realiste du general Clark, a mon avis plusieurs crans au dessus des faux debats rhetoriques et de la folle logique d'Alice au pays des merveilles qui ont generalement cours dans les medias etats-uniens. Je comprends mal que son sens commun soit si peu partage.

Pourtant je ne peux m'empecher de faire remarquer que, alors que C.R. et W.C. ont discute d'Irak, du Moyen-Orient et du leadership des Etats-Unis dans le monde, absolument rien n'a ete dit des souffrances actuelles du peuple Irakien, souffrances provoquees par l'intervention etats-uniennes, alors meme que celle-ci pretendait se faire pour le bien-etre des Irakiens. Comme si personne ne voyait la reelle importance et l'impact a long terme de cette inconsequence, tant pour la region que pour ce que sont ou deviennent les Etats-Unis dans le monde. Alors que tout le Monde voit les souffrances du peuple Irakien et en accusent une intervention mal a propos, mal imaginee et mal realisee, les Etats-Unis semblent se demander s'il n'y aurait pas moyen de sauver la chevre et le choux sans qu'il n'y paraisse en se fabriquant une autre realite a usage domestique. Je trouve cela d'un aveuglement stupefiant.

jd north  07/30/2007 01:23 PM Report

Is this vacation time for people? Is that why Thursday's show with Gen. Clark is not yet available on Monday?

I don't have a tv and really look forward to watching the show online the day after it airs.

DaveSaber  07/29/2007 04:11 PM Report

Candidate or not, I appreciate the way Clark has successfully backed Howard Dean's 50 state strategy, not to mention his acumen with respect to national security, foreign affairs, economics, and social justice, as well as his inclination and ability to engage the opposition (whether Fox news junkies or renegade Iranians). The man deserves our respect, our thanks, and most importantly our emulation.

That's why, on the off chance that an ACTUAL SHOW of bankable netroots support might make a difference to his final decision on 2008, I've decided that now is an appropriate time to start donating to the Draft Clark fund on ActBlue.com (click on Candidate Directory, then President), and asking others to join me. In all likelihood, these funds will end up in the hands of the DNC and applied by Howard Dean to his 50 state strategy (for which BushCo has created a unique historic opening), which suits me just fine.

Please donate to the Draft Clark fund. This is a salute to the general, a thanks for his party-building approach to politics, and a way of joining Dean, Clark and others in their efforts. If enough people get on board, it might nudge Clark toward an Exploratory Committee. If not, it's just as well - we will have done the party some good, strengthened ActBlue as a channel of bottom-up activism, and committed a satisfying act of political self expression.

Why I still support the idea of a Clark Exploratory Committee

1. It's the only way to really tell whether there's a lot of latent support out there or not (talk is cheap!)

2. He would greatly enrich the debate on many fronts (in case anyone here still doesn't know, he's a former Rhodes Scholar and teacher of college-level economics as well as former Supreme Allied Commander of Nato forces during the counter-genocide Kosovo war)

3. He would be a strong contender in the general election with the potential of quite long, map-changing coattails (Clark is NOT Kerry!)

4. Nobody seems to be closing the gap on Hillary - if Clark can show he's learned how to campaign since 2004, it's possible there will be enough positive chatter to put him back on the map

5. There's no shame in backing out if an Exploratory Committee goes nowhere - he will still have ample opportunities to contribute in other ways (for example, stumping for Fighting Dems and other Red State democratic challengers in 2008).

Having recently plugged ActBlue in his Blogosphere Day entry on his Pac's web site, securingamerica.com, Clark's subsequent admission to Charlie that his two biggest hurdles have been money and organization finally pushed me to say, "why the heck not?" It's a long shot that my efforts will make a significant impact, but I will have done all I could (which was not true a month ago), and this being the Internet, you never know.

Cameron  07/29/2007 03:04 AM Report

My God, what a compelling and intelligent interview! Thank you! I am, however, saddened that our political system is so sick that the obvious best choice for President of The United States to come around perhaps in our nation's entire history (Wesley Clark) is having trouble jumping through the political and financial hoops that seem to be required to run. The experience of real hope and pride that I had while I imagined Clark as our nation's President was harshly replaced by what felt like a kick in the stomach when I remembered who was actually sitting in our White House. We are truly in our decline when real leaders like Wesley Clark are being side-stepped for morons, liars, and masters of the soundbite. Thank you so much for having General Clark on your show for such a fine interview, sir. Support Wesley Clark at www.securingamerica.com

Nightengale  07/28/2007 07:22 AM Report

Charlie, What a treat for your viewers to have a guest the caliber of Wes Clark. Thank you for the extensive interview and the opportunity to hear his perspective of the horrendous mess we find ourselves in. I wonder if it dawned on your other viewers as it did me, that this is the one who should be running for President! The blather coming out of the mouths of the current trio is beginning to run together into an undecipherable mass of words. Wes Clark could certainly clear the air with his refreshing insight, honesty and ability to teach through his explanations. Wake up America! This is a man you should listen to, seriously.

EllenG  07/28/2007 02:31 AM Report

Thank you, Charlie, for spending a full half hour with General Wesley Clark Thursday evening. I had been looking forward to a conversation between him , Ted Sorenson and Richard Holbrooke, but the one-on-one was stimulating and informative.

I suspect you noticed General Clark's dramatic qualities, in addition to his smarts, about which I believe you commented. He knows history, geography, diplomacy, psychology, economics, finance, plus, and he is an OUTSTANDING leader. MANY of the troops he has led have commented on his talent in that respect.

I firmly believe that he would be one of the greatest U.S. presidents, should he attain that position. He has been busy 'working the issues,' as he says, that is, speaking with diplomats, officials and politicians, explaining and promoting his plans and thoughts for U.S. foreign policy. In fact, I have noticed that recently, General Clark's approach to addressing the Iraq war has been adopted by many. Consequently he has not been able to take the time necessary to accumulate the funds necessary, to his satisfaction, for a run for the presidency. I think he alluded to this fact early in your interview.

I and MANY others would appreciate any additional time you might spend with him, and further assistance with OUR goal that he run for the presidency.

Sincerely,

Ellen A. Goldstein

analytigal  07/28/2007 01:40 AM Report

Mr. Rose:

Thanks you SO MUCH for having the general on your show tonight (for future reference the quieter you are in the interview the better Clark makes the interviewer look!). Anyway, in the interest of self-disclosure I am a slightly more socially conservative democrat who does not agree with a few of the general's positions. However, as I've listened to him since 1999 during his time as SACEUR through until today, each time I hear him speak, whether on television or at a lecture, I am TRULY, MADLY, DEEPLY SAD that this man is not the president of this great nation. A nation that, while still the best on earth, is quite a bit less shiny over the last decade with both a sex scandal and now political corruption & ethical/legal violations. At this time in our history it seems very unimportant whether we are democrats, independents, or republicans. Rather, are we ethical, moral, intelligent people who are willing to do the right thing no matter the pressure from special interest groups and lobbyists? Can we do what is right for America and its' citizens as a whole, and not just a select few? Are we willing to make reasonable sacrifices to make our country as great as it can be and also realistically and intelligently protect it from, and promote it to, others?

No one I've listened to over the past decade in any medium/forum has come close to exhibiting the qualities, experience, character, and moral and intellectual values of a great American president as General Clark does. General Clark mentioned he thinks about running frequently so he can get to work for America. I also think about it frequently and hope that I am wrong that our country's political climate will not allow such a brilliant man the chance to lead this country back to a righteous and proud path. My tears I shed at the potential loss of such a wonderful leader will, I pray, be unnecessary. We can only hope. I want my vote for president to be something I can be proud of. As of now, I do not have a voice or someone I can comfortably vote in support of. I pray come 11/2008 I will have a vote to make. General Clark: Sir, your country needs your leadership, intelligence, and character. Please heed the calling one more time, for ALL of us.

Peg  07/27/2007 11:56 PM Report

my goodness -- why isn't this man running for president???? he's the first person i've seen who speaks intelligently about the world we now live in.

George  07/27/2007 11:15 PM Report

After hearing and seeing Wesley Clark, one must realize how incompetent the incumbent was is and always will be. This country deserves Clark, but he will probably wind up as a cabinet member the ways things are going now.

Someone called Shrum a political hack, but that is a term more apt for Rove. Shrum was the one who said that if Gore had been elected, the 200,000 troops would have been sent to Afghanistan. Please do not waste our time with any more interviews of GWB - the disgrace of the nation.

Robin  07/27/2007 09:53 PM Report

I was riveted to the interview with General Clark. He is a true leader, a real-life hero and is the only one I see with the dipomatic skills to undo the messes of the last six years. The fact that he has "preconditions" to be able to run is an indication that our election process is broken and we are doomed to elect sound-bite experts rather than real leaders. I am saddened by the loss of potential this means for our great country.

David H  07/27/2007 09:21 PM Report

Thanks for having Mr. Clark on your show. Why the Democratic Party is not begging this guy to run is beyond me. He has all the tools required to lead our nation in these critical times. He generates considerable support among Republicans and would certainly trounce any GOP candidate they nominate. I wouldn't be surprised if he won every state. We desperately need his leadership and expertise in so many areas whether it is foreign policy, diplomacy, the environment (global warming), research and development, education, health care, you name it. Wes Clark has the knowledge and experience to tackle the important issues of the day. For once, let's get real!!

Jose Rizal  07/27/2007 06:44 PM Report

It is maddening to know and realize that a country as large as the U.S.A we are left to choose from a number of candidates that can be describe as politics as usual to mediocre. I have heard much of this great general, and here on this interview clearly demonstrates his credibility when talking about the need of diplomacy,economic policy incumbent with military strategy and tactics. None of the Democratic Candidates can espouse this kind of idea without looking ignorant and the ounce of gravitas that has to come with such a proposal.

Alas, we have to deal with another Clinton God help this country wake up to it's damn senses.

irwest  07/27/2007 06:22 PM Report

What an extraordinary President General Clark would have been for our country and as our face and voice to the rest of the world. To this day I am so proud of him and that he was the candidate that I supported in 2004. A true American patriot, scholar and statesman, just what this country needs more than ever before in its history. I wish with all my heart the "preconceived conditions" that he refers to were a reality for him to run but there's no question that he'll have the ear of the next Democratic president whoever he or she may be. I'll support him 100 percent in whatever he does, this country needs him more than ever and we'll take him any way we can get him. He is a "class act" all the way!!!

Nick Quidwai  07/27/2007 06:01 PM Report

Great show including Shrumm & Dr. Mehmut day b4 I record now as kinda late

Since the good general has no chance on getting the nomination

why not make a big difference

SUPPORT Obama to help tilt the balance with the carrot that he would have an impt. post in his administration.

Gene Anderson  07/27/2007 05:48 PM Report

Thank you Mr.Rose for the refreshing interview with mr.Clark.Mr Clark has a practical view of exploring the options that are needed to engage progessive solutions to the major issues confronting America and yhe free world.

And what is nice is that he does it in a non-politcal slant, but rather as a rationalist.

And also many, many thanks to you Mr.Rose for all the good work that you have done for the conscious of America within your forum.

All the Best to one of the Best!

Denise  07/27/2007 05:36 PM Report

Charlie, thanks so much for having Gen. Clark on the show today. I was expecting a discussion on Iraq but very surpised to hear that he actually wants to run for President in '08 after the fiasco that happened in '04 having to do with the DNC undermining his campaign. Whatever his preconditions are, certainly if they have anything to do with a change of heart from the Democratic party...he won't run...at least as a Democrat. Might be a good thing because there's very little difference between the parties at this point and he truly is his own man...he must scare the party loyalists half to death!!

As always, he's on point, succinct and incredibly intelligent in speaking about almost any subject. He's respected worldwide. We'd be lucky to have him as President.

Kitty B Kahn  07/27/2007 05:31 PM Report

Thank you, Charlie, for the interview with General Wes Clark. He stands out so far from the field of announced candidates that there is really no comparison. His intelligence on a vast variety of issues is amazing, as well as his diplomatic, yet strong, manner. If only he had campaigned in Iowa the last time around, I feel the whole world would be different and far safer. I hope he decides to run this time.

summercat  07/27/2007 05:22 PM Report

Thanks so much for the interview with General Clark. He always enlightens with his deep understanding of the complex issues of the day.

I would be thrilled if he were to find a way to enter the presidential race. We in the US are in sore need of a leader with his wisdom, experience, and honesty. (Not to mention the respect he has around the world.)

bill  07/27/2007 04:23 PM Report

every other generation a leader like wes clark

comes along.

having volunteered for gen clark in 04, I am

convinced the money can be raised.

Americans long for a leader like the general.

I cannot comment on other pre-conditions.

Whatever General Clark decides, I am with him all the way.

GOD BLESS WES CLARK; HE BRINGS THE BEST OUT IN PEOPLE

"Leadership Means Lifting People Up!"

mgm  07/27/2007 03:23 PM Report

This is the man who should be America's president. The country is in desperate need of someone of General Clark's calibre and it is to our shame that we don't recognize it. The current candidates of both parties are simply standard issue politicians. Clark is a leader.

Sybil Liberty  07/27/2007 12:44 PM Report

What a tragic state of affairs when this country's best and brightest cannot find a way to meet the 'preconditions' for a presidential campaign. How often do we find a patriot of Wesley Clark's stature who would even be willing to consider a presidential run? Soldier, scholar, statesman...

When General Wesley Clark said, a few months ago, that 'hillary would be a formidable candidate', surely he spoke of the clinton-dynastical-machine. (And how very ironic that Clark would be followed on your program by political-hackman Shrum...)

The Democratic party displays hubris in the highest if it believes that winning the general election with a Clinton candidacy in this day and age will be a shoe-in. Think again, party machine.

And Mr. Rose, the next time you are fortunate enough to have Wesley Clark as your guest, please refrain from interrupting him. But thanks for having him, nevertheless.

jen  07/27/2007 12:33 PM Report

The very fact that our political system doesn't allow a person of General Clark's caliber to enter the presidential race shows how very broken it is.

How low will our country have to sink before effective change in election reform becomes reality and the people most qualified to lead are among our choices, instead of the people with the most money?

None of the people currently running for president have a clue, and in the end we will all pay.

I pray that the conditions for Clark to run are resolved and he enters the race. If it becomes clear the Democratic party is throwing roadblocks up to prevent him from running, I'm done with them.

ron chute  07/27/2007 12:11 PM Report

watched the interview between you and wes clark and than bob shrum. the first person was a MAN is the truest seanse of the word, the second person was a potitical hack and all that it implys. as far as the interview style i wished that you hadn't interrupted gen. clark as much. what happened to amb. holbrooke. lastly clark 08

Eve   07/27/2007 12:01 PM Report

Our political system seems broken, like our health care system.

Many people don't have access to the state of the art treatment that would cure their illness.

American voters, it seems, may not have the opportunity to express their support for an exceedingly high caliber candidate with the knowledge, experience, good will, ethics and character who tells us he thinks about running for president every day and who would surely serve the people of this country exceedingly well.

General Clark suggested that the necessary preconditions to run and win in 2008 include sufficient funding and organization. He said last night that he has tried but so far failed to put those in place.

The political system is awash with money. But as we've learned, that money hasn't brought us competence or integrity at the highest levels. Much to the contrary.

Last night we listened to a man who could restore our faith in ourselves and help us become a country where even the least fortunate would have an opportunity to succeed.

What can average people do to see to it that we all have access to high quality health care and high quality governance?

The current administration has become a terrible burden to us and threatens our well being.

Here's to my hope that Wes Clark can satisfy his best judgment of what's necessary to run and if so that American voters listen closely to learn why we would be very well served by his leadership.

Diane  07/27/2007 12:00 PM Report

Not only is Wes Clark a true leader, more experienced than anyone else running for POTUS,

an expert strategist, held in high regard throughout the world, has been outspoken and

thoughtful on ways to move forward in foreign policy and terrorism, but he is also an ADULT.

We need him to run for President. Pray that he finds the way.

Pamela  07/27/2007 11:35 AM Report

What an interesting interview. I especially enjoyed the question that Mr. Rose posed regarding what he described as "conventional wisdom" in reference to so many political leaders now saying that there is no military solution to the problems in Iraq.

For a long time, General Clark was perhaps the only prominent person publicly stating that we can't win in Iraq strictly using the military, we must use diplomacy and change our overall approach not just in Iraq and Afghanistan, but in the entire region. And now what he's been saying since 2003 is seen as conventional wisdom.

Thank you General for sticking with the message until it's finally gotten out in the mainstream.

Don Jo  07/27/2007 10:57 AM Report

This country need real leaders to get us out of the morass we're in. General Clark is a real leader; 'nuf said.

Brian  07/27/2007 10:51 AM Report

If there was a level playing field in presidential politics, Gen. Clark would be surely the presumptive nominee. Even though we don't, I think if anyone can navigate the arbitrary obstacles it would be Clark, so I have hope.

HollyC  07/27/2007 10:25 AM Report

A lovely & somewhat maddening interview with the ever enigmatic Wesley Clark. An interview that whets the appetite to hear more.

Wes Clark is a true Renaissance man, with one of the most interesting & unique biographies & perspectives America has to offer.

His singular grasp of the intersections of real national security, his interpretation & deep understanding of international affairs, history & technology always result in a stunning, practical, original analysis of world events. Better yet, one can depend on Wes Clark to recommend the correct course of action.

Combined with his singular ability to speak extemporaneously, and with authority about just about anything- remains desperately needed on our national stage. This man is a national treasure.

Clearsky  07/27/2007 02:21 AM Report

Teneral Wes Clark really showed that he is the one person who knows what it's all about regarding American foreign policy, and our role in the world. Not just Irq, but surely the leader in know-how on what's what there and what to do about it.

The man's a genius really. And yet he seems to somehow engender, as he did on the Charlie Rose show, an affection. He's a lovable person.

And yet, we know he's strong and tough too.

And all-American, American son. The best of our American values. Admired and loved around the world.

morpheus  07/27/2007 01:58 AM Report

Way too many interruptions, Charlie!!! Let these people speak, please!!