Charlie Rose

Mythbuster  10/31/2010 08:56 PM Report

Well, another Kennedy apologist/mythmaker has bitten the dust. Sycophants like Sorensen have done the nation no service by deifying Kennedy and using his death as a tool to promote a leftist agenda far in excess of Kennedy's actual record. The job of sychophants like Sorenson is to give their heros respectable, honorable and noble reputations to cover for the ugliness inherent of those who crave power. Sorensen went well beyong reason in his effots. Sorensen was such a beleiver, he felt comfortable attributing anything he saw a "good" to JFK whether or not the there was any evidence for the claim.

Perhaps Kennedy would have evolved into the opportunistic social liberal that Bobby became or perhaps even would have gone off the deep-end like Teddy and the rest of the clan who had no choice but to align themselves and seek power within the radicalized Democrat party after 1968. But then again, to be a Kennedy was never anything less than the pursuit of wealth and most of all, power. The extreme liberalism of the Kennedys after the death of JFK and RFK made Sorensen's (an others) heroic JFK mythology all the more believeable to the public and most of all to Sorensen himself. It was symbiotic- and pathetic- to the point where Sorensen ( and others including Teddy) with a straight face equated JFK, a Navy Luitenant, a 4 term US House Representative, and 2 term US Senator with Barak Obama.

Say what you want about the "JFK Myth" but given the vast difference in the accomplismenst of the rwo men, Sorensen's absurdity in equating Obama with JFK shows the shallowness and vacuity of his idol worship. His need to resurrect JFK was so great that he would accept anyone he could conveniently plug into the space in his immagination. And Obama was just that- for a virelty of reasons (fawned over and protected by the press ) a blank slate that could be whatever anyone wanted him to be: Even JFK. But what is the difference between a mythological man like Sorensen's JFK and a fraud like Obama? Nothing.

Danny  06/25/2008 06:48 PM Report

Great show, Charlie. I was born after Bobby Kennedy was assassinated, and I had never heard of this man, Ted Sorensen, until I saw your show last night. His smarts, humor and temperament are the exact opposite of so many on television today, so it was great to see rational conversation for a change (par for Charlie's show, of course!).

Fake outrage by the right will not sustain itself through this election, and that is all it has going for it this year. I look forward to President Obama and men like Ted Sorensen moving us back in the right direction again.

Sharon A. Fox  06/02/2008 05:15 PM Report

In an earlier comment left below by one of Charlie's viewers (dated Tuesday May 27), the viewer offers this comment, "Both frank and discreet at the same time, Ted Sorensoen, is so fascinating, he could have his own television

show." ..................................................................................................... .

I do not think we need another reality show based on "UNREALITY". There is no doubt that Mr. Sorenson is a crafty wordsmith...there is no doubt that his speeches helped JFK to inspire a nation....and there is no doubt that he is a master architect of myths. One of the biggest myths Sorensen has spent a lifetime laboring to design....Is the myth that he coined the most famous phrase that President Kennedy is known for, "Ask not what your country can do for youâ??ask what you can do for your country." ..................................................................................................... ....... Of course Mr. Sorensen has never come straight out and said he wrote these words, instead he uses words and phrases that give book and T.V. audiences the impression that he coined the famous phrase. He chooses his words meticulously so that many end up making the assumption that he is the author of the famous words. When he is asked point blank about the phrase his answer skirts around the question and designs a string of words which weave the impression that he is bowing to humility. He might go on to say something like, "As speech writers we are collaborators not authors."...or words to that effect." The fabric of the coat he weaves creates a false impression...(an impression that should be out of style considering todays emphasis on truth in labeling). Because of Sorensen's tireless compulsion to keep on reinventing ways feed this false impression I always think of that amazingly deceptive but effective Gallo wine ad that used to run years ago with Orson Welles. Welles was not only a well known actor and director but he was world renown for his great knowledge and taste in wine and gourmet food. In the commercial he did for Gallo, he sits in a beautiful chair, takes a sip of Gallo wine, then raises his glass to the T.V. audience and says, "This may well be the finest wine "you've" ever tasted." Most audience members when interviewed after seeing the commercial would have sworn Welles had said that Gallo was the finest wine that "he'd" ever tasted. Words can be deceptive...even when they state facts. This is a dangerous game to play when words are used to state facts that lead us miles away from the truth. The threads of the fabric of Sorensen's coat are wearing thin...maybe it is time to donate the coat to the "Goodwill" ..................................................................................................... ....

And by the way...the reason why Sorensen could never take credit for the phrase Kennedy made famous was because he didn't design it. The man who coined the phrase was a man who lived these words every day of his life, Norman Cousins. Thank you, Norman. Rest in Peace.

Irish  05/29/2008 11:02 PM Report

I participated in a discussion on this topic today and I would like to clarify what I meant below. First off, there is no doubt that beautiful speeches are wonderous things indeed. And a beautiful speech delivered with skill is exciting and emotional. I too have so delighted to lend an ear and/or eye to rich and powerful writings that I defy anyone to find me wanting on that score. I have no doubt that Mr Sorenson's works in particular will last through the ages to come as some of the most beautiful of the 20th century and he does not disappoint as a human being. In addition, I have praised Senator Obama's oratory skills and corrected those who have been dismissive of his obvious talent. However, a long series of similar speeches in lieu of any specifics rings hollow over time for those people looking for some real help with the current disasters from economy to war to healthcare. At a certain point you have to say, okay - now what are you going to do so I can decide if you are the right person to lead us out of the deep troubles we are in? Why is that inappropriate to ask for? Why is Senator Clinton to be held in contempt for pointing out that some of us need that kind of information and not several months of what he was delivering no matter how nice it felt for awhile? So that is why I thought you were rude, Charlie, for taking Senator Clinton out of the campaign context at the time she said what she did. I thought it was unfair and a misrepresentation since clearly I agreed with her. :-) Other than that, you're aces. Thank you.

Irish  05/28/2008 09:03 PM Report

This charming man has a place in my heart for his wise words on this very show warning against the attack on Iraq. So he can say whatever he wants and think whatever he wants and I will still respect him. On the other hand, I found Charlie rather rude in his comments early on - he was taking Clinton out of context and it was a cheap shot. Big razzzzzberry your way, cranky dude.

anne lanigan  05/28/2008 04:33 PM Report

Was my first time for reading the comments a few of which were extraordinarily angry with anything derogatory about the real world which they are sure is not real.

Since anything "international" seems outrageous, I would not be surprised if the bumper slogan on their car is the isolationist banner of WW2 "America First"

anne lanigan  05/28/2008 04:33 PM Report

Was my first time for reading the comments a few of which were extraordinarily angry with anything derogatory about the real world which they are sure is not real.

Since anything "international" seems outrageous, I would not be surprised if the bumper slogan on their car is the isolationist banner of WW2 "America First"

anne lanigan  05/28/2008 04:33 PM Report

Was my first time for reading the comments a few of which were extraordinarily angry with anything derogatory about the real world which they are sure is not real.

Since anything "international" seems outrageous, I would not be surprised if the bumper slogan on their car is the isolationist banner of WW2 "America First"

Cathy S.  05/28/2008 10:05 AM Report

I enjoy your show, but this particular one, I think showed bias, particularly in the manner in which Charlie asked a question to the effect of how the Sorenson felt about Senator Clinton's comment that Obama makes great speeches. I think the manner in which Sorenson answered "sews it up." as I am not sure why he referred to her as "Mrs. Clinton" as opposed to "Senator Clinton" which, I think, would have been more appropriate given the conversation. The fact is Obama's campaign has been based upon a "bottom up" philosophy, which I have no problem with. However, along with that philosophy comes the issue of articulating the problems as well as solutions. However, the fact that they are absent in Obama's speech leads me to believe that he doesn't really have any because he is "bottom up" and doesn't really think he needs any solutions. Therefore, the Congress will make the solutions and he will just "facilitate."I think now that Senator Clinton has come out with the issues and the solutions, we will hear them coming out of Obama's mouth, indicating that they are "democratic" positions. I think he does make great speeches, however, when it comes down to security, he is no match to McCain and I as an Independent who usually votes democratic am hardpressed to vote for Obama. Anyone who has read General Georges Sadas book on Saddam, I think can draw the conclusion that Clinton's position on Iraq at the time was not outrageous, Obama's position demonstrates a lack of understanding of the complexity and his comments on the Capital Gains as it affects the economy reflected holes in his knowledge base. I think McCain is going to win because when it comes down to it, safety and security drives our viscera fundamentally. I would have trusted Senator Clinton, her history and all, to make a hardcore, tough military decision. I don't feel that way about Obama. I think this show clearly did not disclose the Sorenson's relationship to the present candidate. And why does Obama continue to call himself an "outsider." He has major Democratic Senators supporting him. He is not an outsider,he name just does not end in Clinton, Bush or McCain.

Ava Khodbandeh  05/28/2008 10:04 AM Report

excellent night with Mr.Sorenson. For a first time in long time i wished this conversation

would go on for hours.

thank you Charlie Rose.

L.H.Flaten  05/28/2008 10:04 AM Report

Mr. Rose you are on a roll. Your last several interviews have been GREAT.I don't allways enyoy the content,if you interview another slime dog CEO I will barf.But your style has been great, a little more probing,your lawyer is coming out a little more. I like it Mr. Rose

Cathy S.  05/28/2008 09:13 AM Report

I enjoy your show, but this particular one, I think showed bias, particularly in the manner in which Charlie asked a question to the effect of how the Sorenson felt about Senator Clinton's comment that Obama makes great speeches. I think the manner in which Sorenson answered "sews it up." as I am not sure why he referred to her as "Mrs. Clinton" as opposed to "Senator Clinton" which, I think, would have been more appropriate given the conversation. The fact is Obama's campaign has been based upon a "bottom up" philosophy, which I have no problem with. However, along with that philosophy comes the issue of articulating the problems as well as solutions. However, the fact that they are absent in Obama's speech leads me to believe that he doesn't really have any because he is "bottom up" and doesn't really think he needs any solutions. Therefore, the Congress will make the solutions and he will just "facilitate."I think now that Senator Clinton has come out with the issues and the solutions, we will hear them coming out of Obama's mouth, indicating that they are "democratic" positions. I think he does make great speeches, however, when it comes down to security, he is no match to McCain and I as an Independent who usually votes democratic am hardpressed to vote for Obama. Anyone who has read General Georges Sadas book on Saddam, I think can draw the conclusion that Clinton's position on Iraq at the time was not outrageous, Obama's position demonstrates a lack of understanding of the complexity and his comments on the Capital Gains as it affects the economy reflected holes in his knowledge base. I think McCain is going to win because when it comes down to it, safety and security drives our viscera fundamentally. I would have trusted Senator Clinton, her history and all, to make a hardcore, tough military decision. I don't feel that way about Obama. I think this show clearly did not disclose the Sorenson's relationship to the present candidate. And why does Obama continue to call himself an "outsider." He has major Democratic Senators supporting him. He is not an outsider,he name just does not end in Clinton, Bush or McCain.

Salvador Bricio  05/28/2008 09:12 AM Report

Charlie:

I truly enjoyed your Ted Sorensen interview. The insights into the lives and thoughts of all the personalities that Mr. Sorensen knew provided me with vibrant color to a picture of these idividuals which heretofore were only newsprint black and white.

I plan to buy Mr. Sorensens book and give Senator Obama a second look.

I have watched several of your programs and I take pleasure in adding my name to the list of your fans!!!!!!!!!

L.H.Flaten  05/27/2008 11:39 PM Report

Mr. Rose you are on a roll. Your last several interviews have been GREAT.I don't allways enyoy the content,if you interview another slime dog CEO I will barf.But your style has been great, a little more probing,your lawyer is coming out a little more. I like it Mr. Rose

Roy Fassel  05/27/2008 10:54 PM Report

Sorenson mentioned his disappointment that Clinton did not implement Kyoto. Sorenson is misguided like every seems to be. The US Senate voted 95 to zero in 1997...repeat 95-0 that it would not approve the Kyoto concept Al Gore was putting together. Clinton "signed" the Accords but he needed Senate ratification which would have required 2/3 majority. Clinton did not even bother to send the treaty to the Senate for ratification. Sorenson is part of the myth-making but the the idea that anyone could have gotten the Kyoto Accords passed in the Senate when the Senate voted unanimously against the concept is a myth made by the media to deflex blame to Bush. Sorenson is a superb myth maker for the naive. TThe Obama crowd will follow Sorenson without "any thought." 95 to zero against the Kyoto Accords and Sorrenson is disappointed that Clinton did not get it approved? That says it all.

Uncle Ron  05/27/2008 10:38 PM Report

I can see why Mr. Sorenson is advising Mr. Obama. He trots out the tired old leftist mantra about we are 4% of the world's population using a large percentage of the world's resources. Yes but why - because we are the most successful economy in the world. Capitalism works and these leftists just hate that. The average income in Cuba is $17.00 a month, many African nations are total failures due to corrupt, Marxist leaders and socialist economies struggle (Sweden, per the "Economist Magazine" hasn't created one net new private sector job in the last fifty years, has very high youth unemployment and other economic problems. Sorenson laments the U.S. not signing the Kyoto Treaty but it has failed miserably-all but the smallest nations and those with a built-in advantage are failing. Only man's technological genius will eventually solve any "CO2" crisis. In the meantime, there is no MASSIVE substitute for oil - like it or not. I think Obama has said he favors nuclear power but wait till the radical enviro groups attack him. He promotes the United Nations, World Courts and other international treaties ("Law of the Sea") that would impinge on U.S. soverignity. I am sure he would love the "UN-Agena 21" program to regulate worldwide economic activity to enhance environmental controls and having the U.S Supreme Court follow "international law" - these are all "liberal dreams" which Obama buys into. No doubt Sorenson favors Rebecca Peters' UN gun (read "ban") control programs.

The United States allows generous immigration both legal and illegal (unfortunately). It is the most generous nation on earth both from the government (taxpayers) and private charity. The U.S. military (and other government agencies) does countless positive projects across the world. We stood ready to help Burma immediately and do the same when other natural emergencies arise. We give millions to the AIDS, malaria and other battles. Yet the UN is run by largely socialist countries who don't like our capitalist system even though many of them are economic basket cases. UN bureaucrats are constantly attending various conferences in places like Bali staying in fancy hotels, eating in fancy restaurants and accomplishing very little in reality. Yet the U.S. pays 25% of its costs and a huge part of its new building. Socialism and Communism are failed economic systems - China and Vietnam have figured that out. If the Sorenson/Obama crowd get elected and get their high tax, socialistic programs instituted, the United States may very well go the way of the United Nations agenda and if our Supreme Court becomes subservient to international courts, then our nation will indeed begin its road to failure.

Roy Fassel   05/27/2008 10:33 PM Report

Charlie, you have great guests and your program is a joy to watch. However, be somewhat more nuanced the next few months. You are "in the tank" for Obama and it is not becoming to you. You had the three guys talking about the Bush-Gore election of 2000, with deluded spins. No one ever talks about the 1960 election, when unusually high turnout came from various cemeteries in Chicago and West Virginia to put Kennedy over the top. America was ready for a change when JFK won in 1960. Had Kennedy lived, his legacy would have been much different than it now is. Sorenson is a nice man who still "idol worships" at the alter of liberalism. JFK would have had a hell of a time with his "chasing" today, and young Teddy would have never survived the scandal today of leaving a young girl drown in his car when he drove the car into the drink and he ran off to get the booze out of his system. The Kennedy myth could not have survived the current media methods. But Sorenson is keeping the myths alive.

Ava Khodbandeh  05/27/2008 08:40 PM Report

excellent night with Mr.Sorenson. For a first time in long time i wished this conversation

would go on for hours.

thank you Charlie Rose.

Carol J  05/27/2008 08:01 PM Report

To Carolyne H, After the lead in to this show, when Charlie was introducing Mr. Sorensen, he stated that Mr. Sorensen was an advisor etc to Senator Obama.

Linda Mae  05/27/2008 06:26 PM Report

It was nice to put a face to the name of JFK's speech writer. I keep reminding myself that every time Obama makes a speech, it is Ted putting the words in his mouth. No wonder he sounds like JFK.

Idealism would work if our enemies practiced the same philosophy. They don't. All of the idealism in the world won't protect us from the realism of terrorist threats. Does Idealism mean going towards a socialist state espoused by Obama? I hope not. Yet, what he says supports that agenda. I can only hope we can get over the American Idol mentality and really examine what this man really stands for.

The recent PBS biography on Truman pointed out that Dewey ran his campaign on platitudes - great ideas without saying anything. Obama has mastered this. He is asking the American public to give him a blank check for our future. He lacks the experience to use this power wisely. I can only wonder who is pulling his strings and what is their agenda. This is not idealism unless you are a youngster who has no command of history.

The clips of Truman's nominating convention were a surprise to me. The talking heads of today bemoan a Democrat convention in which issues are argued. Wow. They need to watch clips of Truman. Civil rights. Health care for everyone. Dixiecrats. Many other issues that seem to appear today. Desegregating the Army. Truman was good for our country. I wonder if his approval rating was as low as Bush has now? Perhaps someday in the future we will watch a PBS video telling us how Bush helped our country.

I didn't like how Ted skirted JFK's active sex life outside of his marriage. His behavior makes BC look like a choir boy. We have the Monica event as opposed to so many examples of JFK's behavior. Was Monroe really in the white House? Did his dad really tell him to get off the boat and get home to Jacquie after her miscarriage? Plus, Ted didn't mention the romances of other Presidents. But that is another show. Perhaps we should not waste our time with personal issues that should be between a husband and wife. The press had done so until Clinton.

I'd love to be an idealist. I do, but I also realize I live in a world where I need to balance my thoughts with the realistic problems we are facing. I can live with that balance. I don't think Barack does. I read his transcripts and must conclude the man cannot express his ideas coherently. It's not apparent while he charmingly speaks, but brash when you read his words only. The "bitter" comments come to mind. The 3 paragraphs I read sounded like Bush on his worst day. Can't wait for August.

Salvador Bricio  05/27/2008 04:19 PM Report

Charlie:

I truly enjoyed your Ted Sorensen interview. The insights into the lives and thoughts of all the personalities that Mr. Sorensen knew provided me with vibrant color to a picture of these idividuals which heretofore were only newsprint black and white.

I plan to buy Mr. Sorensens book and give Senator Obama a second look.

I have watched several of your programs and I take pleasure in adding my name to the list of your fans!!!!!!!!!

Salvador Bricio  05/27/2008 04:18 PM Report

Charlie:

I truly enjoyed your Ted Sorensen interview. The insights into the lives and thoughts of all the personalities that Mr. Sorensen knew provided me with vibrant color to a picture of these idividuals which heretofore were only newsprint black and white.

I plan to buy Mr. Sorensens book and give Senator Obama a second look.

I have watched several of your programs and I take pleasure in adding my name to the list of your fans!!!!!!!!!

Salvador Bricio  05/27/2008 04:18 PM Report

Charlie:

I truly enjoyed your Ted Sorensen interview. The insights into the lives and thoughts of all the personalities that Mr. Sorensen knew provided me with vibrant color to a picture of these idividuals which heretofore were only newsprint black and white.

I plan to buy Mr. Sorensens book and give Senator Obama a second look.

I have watched several of your programs and I take pleasure in adding my name to the list of your fans!!!!!!!!!

Salvador Bricio  05/27/2008 04:18 PM Report

Charlie:

I truly enjoyed your Ted Sorensen interview. The insights into the lives and thoughts of all the personalities that Mr. Sorensen knew provided me with vibrant color to a picture of these idividuals which heretofore were only newsprint black and white.

I plan to buy Mr. Sorensens book and give Senator Obama a second look.

I have watched several of your programs and I take pleasure in adding my name to the list of your fans!!!!!!!!!

Salvador Bricio  05/27/2008 04:18 PM Report

Charlie:

I truly enjoyed your Ted Sorensen interview. The insights into the lives and thoughts of all the personalities that Mr. Sorensen knew provided me with vibrant color to a picture of these idividuals which heretofore were only newsprint black and white.

I plan to buy Mr. Sorensens book and give Senator Obama a second look.

I have watched several of your programs and I take pleasure in adding my name to the list of your fans!!!!!!!!!

Salvador Bricio  05/27/2008 04:17 PM Report

Charlie:

I truly enjoyed your Ted Sorensen interview. The insights into the lives and thoughts of all the personalities that Mr. Sorensen knew provided me with vibrant color to a picture of these idividuals which heretofore were only newsprint black and white.

I plan to buy Mr. Sorensens book and give Senator Obama a second look.

I have watched several of your programs and I take pleasure in adding my name to the list of your fans!!!!!!!!!

Irene  05/27/2008 02:59 PM Report

Great show, Charlie. I'd forgotten how charming old-world discretion could be. I hope you invite him back soon to finish the interview.

P.S. If he needs a personal assistant, I am available.

stacy  05/27/2008 02:57 PM Report

To Warren Clark, just a quick thought for you. If "Ted Kennedy has done nothing in his forty years except trade upon his family name and pretend that people who aren't rich really matter.", why is it that several people, cogressmen, senators, the president have all come out talking about his ability to cross party lines? Why is it that he has been one of the few senators that when he takes the floor of senate, people stop talking and listen? You don't command that kind of respect without earning it, no matter what your name is. To you, wake up, have you ever commanded the floor anywhere, if you have, you'd realize that only someone as highly respected as Ted Kennedy would be able speak without loud whispers interrupting. Especially in this day and age. I as a matter of fact have watched a thirty year veteran teacher try speaking to a room of parents before, and low and behold, you could hardly hear her because even parents in this day and age show no respect. Do you think it is differnt in a room full of senators? If you do you must be nuts, and I dare you to command a room of 100 people.

Amy  05/27/2008 04:10 AM Report

Both frank and discreet at the same time, Ted Sorensen, is so fascinating, he could have his own television show. To those who aren't old enough to remember when Jack Kennedy was in the WH, read up on his administration, for a glorious example of the best in American excellence, that extended from Jack himself, to his wife Jackie, and everyone around them.

Martin A. Scanlan  05/27/2008 03:47 AM Report

I want to extend my kudos to Charlie for a most interesting conversation...only wish it had been longer. Sorensen's unique perspective on historical political characters and events ... and his take on today's political stage, combined with his articulation skills, are priceless.

That someone would term Ted Sorensen a 'hack' is beyond belief and says volumes, er, ah, no, says but trifles of the intellectual curiosity...and capacity of the critic.

Carolyne H.  05/27/2008 01:51 AM Report

I think Charlie should have disclosed that Sorenson works for Obama when asking him questions about Hillary Clinton's qualifications to be VP. What an outrage. How can the media continue to blame her for dividng the party, when day after day they continue to insult and disrespect Senator Clinton. In the beginning of the campaign the media excused itself for being hard on Hillary bacause she was the front-runner. But they've been calling her "the loser" since

iowa, yet they are still beating up on her at every turn. Even PBS has joined the band wagon in hijacking this election. Don't they care that half the democrats in this country adore Hillary Clinton? I don't know where to turn to have my voice represented. I'm disgusted!

warren clark  05/27/2008 01:40 AM Report

Ted Sorensen used to be one of my heroes. After watching him tonight I find him to be nothing but a Kennedy family syncophant.

Jack was wonderful, Bobby would have been wonderful if he had lived, Ted is one of the best senators ever.... Give me a break!!!

Ted Kennedy has done nothing in his forty years except trade upon his family name and pretend that people who aren't rich really matter. He's a huge phoney.

Alice  05/27/2008 01:36 AM Report

A real American patriot and a brilliant thinker. We need to put men and women like Sorensen back in charge to save the day.

Great show, tank you.

Laura from SC  05/27/2008 01:32 AM Report

I just finished watching this excellent and insightful interview. I highly recommend it! Sorensen's dialogue is important to the present and future political landscape in America -- his perspectives drawn from working with some of the most important political and historical figures of our time -- John F. Kennedy, Bobby Kennedy and Lyndon B. Johnson, among others. Few could dream of acquiring the experience he has gathered, working in Washington and abroad for the past 50 or so years.

His endorsement for Obama, which he shares Ted Kennedy, is based, in part, on his observation that Obama is a man of decency and high ideals, who has already shown his abilty to bring the American people into the political process. When asked about the VP choice for Obama, Sorensen's answer was the most eloquently stated response I've yet to hear on this topic. I hope that his words will be part of Obama's dialogue during this important decision.

idealism  05/27/2008 01:02 AM Report

Bemoaning loss of respect indicates we haven't lost our arrogance. As long as we think we need respect, let alone deserve it, we're still in the pubescent stage in the world family. If we earn it (again) ok. But if not we need to accept the fact and we may even learn how to just get along as equals. We've already proved we're inferior morally. Technologically slipping away as well. We may have to try to get along just to survive. Horrors! Gasp! Choke!

idealism  05/27/2008 12:45 AM Report

Idealism is the more tragic when crushed. The venal-whores so easily purchased by the K-street lobbyists will dominate Obama, the Congress and the politicized Supreme Court and continue to crush idealism, democracy and our system into the dust-bin of history. . . . . . . . Further, Hillary and the red-necks may prevail in the long-run. His life becomes more precarious with each super-delegate endorsement. Hillary has already tipped her hand on her sentiments re that (delicious-for-her cause she covets it that much) potential.

Charles Delehanty  05/27/2008 12:24 AM Report

Sorenson said that America has lost the respect of foreign nations. I agree. He then said words to the effect that to regain that respect that the next President should immediately tell the UN that there ia a new foreign policy in America. That we want to cooperate and work with the other nations in the world. That we are concerned about others.

This is not the first time I've heard politicos say that. But I'm not sure it will work. We've lost respect because we told the rest of the world that we are the big dog and we don't need them to get our way.

Now, after making losing judgements about the "war on terrorism", turning Iraq into a mess, failing to get Osama Bin Laden, causing an increase in terrorists, and basically losing a "war" which the President declared, we say we want to cooperate with the world.

Any new claim of cooperation would surely be seen by many as nothing more than asking for cooperation because we know that we aren't the big dog we thought we were.

It is like the prodigal son who thumbs his nose at his father and goes off to win an ill advised war. And, after losing the combat, comes back begging for forgiveness.

The problem is the world realizes that we are not needed. That it can carry on very well without us. It has been doing so for several years. That our measly small percentage of humankind is no longer a factor to be considered in economic relations. That the big dogs are now India, China and a resurgence of Russia.

America has shot its wad and failed. America is no longer the world's wealthiest per capita nation. And, don't kid yourself, the rest off the world knows it.

Judith OD  05/27/2008 12:05 AM Report

Ted Sorenson may be a nice man who's had an interesting life, but his comparisons between JFK's and Obama's political careers are addled. JFK served as a U.S. congressman and senator for 14 years before being elected president. Obama has served only 3 years as a U.S. senator, and most of that time, he's been campaigning for the presidency.

Dennis D  05/26/2008 11:55 PM Report

Charlie let Sorensen off the hook on Rev Wright. It cannot be compared to the JFK Catholic issue at ALL. Obama specifically follows this pastor and this specific church that adheres to Black Liberation Theology.

Tom  05/26/2008 11:32 PM Report

To Whom It May Concern.

Who is this Guy??? Why is he on your show? He is obviously trying to hang onto the only thing he has as a benchmark in his life, a relationship with the Kennedy's. Please, do better in getting guests, and try to keep it a little bit real...I know it's hard to accept, but there is an America between New York/Boston/Washington and California! Clinton won the Presidency by relating to the whole country, as did Ron R. Keep hacks like this off the TV, and let the candidates make their case... TC