A Gold Star for Bill Clinton
Hooray for Bill Clinton!
OK, I never thought I’d actually write that. I’m still kind of peeved at the former president. Yes, he left the country debt free, and the saxophone was a nice touch. And of course he was way better than his successor. But NAFTA and the blue dress and the Telecommunications Act of 1996 pretty much lost me. Not that I’m holding a grudge or anything.
But today, the Clinton name has been redeemed a little in my book.
North Korean leader Kim Jong Il has issued a “special pardon” to two American journalists convicted of sneaking into the country illegally, and he ordered them released during a visit by former U.S. President Bill Clinton, North Korean media reported early Wednesday.
The release of Laura Ling and Euna Lee was a sign of North Korea’s “humanitarian and peaceloving policy,” the Korean Central News Agency reported.
Clinton, who arrived in North Korea Tuesday on an unannounced visit, met with the reclusive and ailing Kim — his first meeting with a prominent Western figure since his reported stroke nearly a year ago.
North Korea accused Ling, 32, and Lee, 36, of sneaking into the country illegally in March and engaging in “hostile acts,” and the nation’s top court sentenced them in June to 12 years of hard labor.
Hooray! And welcome home to the two journalists.
GOP backlash for actually doing something constructive with North Korea in 3..2..1…
Welcome home, ladies. Thank you, B. Clinton
I gotta say Bubba got a gold star today. I too had been holding a grudge.
Not healthy–but nonetheless.
More than anything though; I’m so happy for Ms. Lee, Ms. Ling and their families today. Amazing what that “diplomacy” can do.
Slick Willy. Glad there free and on the way home. He does have a way about himself, doesn’t he. Bill and Hillary, were born for the political arena.
I’m with you on the Bill disappointment factor AKM, but I do think he’s sort of redeemed himself in the ensuing years. He’s done great things for charity and his Global Initiative Group has been outstanding. Yes, he was a bit of a “pouter” during the campaign last fall, but he did come through in the end, and that’s the most important thing.
Special recognition should also go to Obama and his administration for keeping this so quiet, but getting the job done so successfully. As Claw Washout Palin says: Welcome home chicas!
It’s nice that we’re not the world’s biggest A-holes anymore.
(The hard line neo cons must be fuming!)
The Obama Administration plays well with others and gets along with others even when fights erupt about him. The Clintons both get gold stars for their work in North Korea.
The two young women have much to be appreciative of at this time of their release. I am happy for their return. We have much to be thankful for–yes we do because yes we can!
Diplomacy at work, treating people the way you want to be treated, even when you don’t like them and they do not like you.
Best news of the day – or for a long time. I’ll feel even better when they say that the two ladies and Bill are actually out of North Korea and back on friendlier soil. Nicely done.
And from the sound of it, Pres. Obama was working with him to make this happen. Isn’t it nice to have a president who cares more for getting the right thing accomplished rather than for taking all the credit for himself.
Hope we have some more nice news days like this one.
Thank you President Clinton. (I can still call him President … he served his terms.) A good sign that we call all work together for the good of all Americans.
This is how unofficial channels CAN work. Get someone with connections and clout, send them in secretly, and baffle them with bonhomie.
Well, back home in Arkansas we were all majorly disappointed with the Blue Dress fiasco, Nafta , etc. as well. The dream had cracked.
However, what just happened (release of the journalists) is what makes Bill Clinton, Bill Clinton.
During political campaigns from Governor to President, the guy was amazing. He and Barack are the best campaigners I have ever seen-bar none (take that Ronald Reagan). Even Newt got drawn in after a personal meeting with him.
I remember attending a rally at the LR airport, with Air Force One in the background. It was the night before the 2nd election. He spoke at length about the future and what it held for all of us; scientific discoveries, world events, and how as individuals we all can make a difference. It was the most inspiring off the cuff, no notes “speech” I’ve heard. He was dead tired, happy to be among friends and we all remarked that we felt he was talking to each one of us, personally.
Regardless of the extraneous yada that he created, the guy is amazing. Welcome home Ladies!!!
And John Bolton is blasting away at him for going… As if HE ever did anything productive for international relations?!?!?
Thanks, Bill, I get mad at you but by golly, I can’t quit you….
Gotta hand it to the guy. And he did it in like what seemed like minutes!
Elvis is IN the building…!!!
Good on Bill..he did a good thing..and credit to Obama and his team for keeping this amazingly quite..VERY cool…
# 11
the problem child Says:
August 4th, 2009 at 2:27 PM
This is how unofficial channels CAN work. Get someone with connections and clout, send them in secretly, and baffle them with bonhomie.
—————————-
And wasn’t $P’s response just a few months ago when $he was bashing Obama about N. Korea was that $he would send them some missles… to send a message. ( Female Dick Cheney wannabee)
Yea…. $arah that shows ‘ Your ‘ International Diplomacy experience.
BTW… $arah have you seen Putin raise his head up yet…? He’s over there…
Yeah for Laura & Euna! Let’s all have a celebratory drink to freedom!
Good going Bill. While I agree with all the mixed feelings about his performance as President, Bill Clinton can explain complex ideas simply and directly in a way few can emulate. It’s a skill that never fails to fascinate me.
Last fall I toured the Clinton Library in Little Rock. It is a wonderful museum, and I was very impressed by the variety of things that he made happen on his watch. The library is cantilevered to represent the “Bridge to the 21st Century.” He had his human faults, but he was an outstanding president.
A little different outcome than what would have happened under McCain/Palin.
They would be praying the nuclear cloud won’t come this way…..
Great job—Mr Obama—and the Clintons.
Sandra #20: we call it the “double wide”. lol
Thanks for coming to LR. I hope you had a great visit. We may be barefoot and pregnant, but we know how to do Presidential Libraries. Hope y’all get the chance to visit.
Happy Birthday President Obama and thanks to President Clinton-a good day for America.
(and a bad day for right wing asshats, including John Bolton, Boo Hoo Beck, Hater Hannity and the Big Fat Idiot).
Clinton’s failure to pursue and prosecute all the Iran Contra criminals enabled 8 years of W. Bush. Unforgiveable.
PAT: #9
Isn’t it nice to have a president who cares more for getting the right thing accomplished rather than for taking all the credit for himself.
*************
Yes, it is nice, and it is about time we had a statesman in the office of President. My hat is off to Bill Clinton. Better late than never.
I share your feelings re Clinton, AKM, and also give the man his due: Yeah, thank you! Job well done!
And thanks, too, to President Obama and his staff for knowing when to keep their counsel and let diplomacy take its course.
Talking respectfully with others–even those we don’t like (maybe especially those we don’t like)–is a good thing.
Happy Birthday, Mr. President, and welcome home to Laura Ling and Euna Lee!
I am re-posting this from the open thread….
#133
BigSlick Says:
August 4th, 2009 at 12:55 PM
Bill Clinton got the journalists in N. Korea their pardons, immediately after BushieHawk John Bolton just today criticized Clinton’s sudden involvement in the process.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RuqNWG9sbuE
Bolton is a pure asshat. This video a very good analysis of his anti-diplomacy, and his comments about Clinton (who I am not a fan of) are just one more example of the Bushies need to just shut the hell up.
Good job, Bill! I guess now I can’t stay mad at’cha.
IMO, Clinton is very intelligent, very personable, and not very honest. Don’t want to sound like a conspiracy theorist, but I recall a flap about Clinton receiving money from Chinese sources, and China is, of course, N.Korea’s prime patron. China is nervous that pressure on N.Korea will cause complete collapse, and a flood of refugees into China. Probably Clinton has China connections. Did Clinton suggest a word from China to Korea that holding these journalists was of little value, while releasing them was cheap positive PR? Was the Clinton visit only a face-saving cover story for a reversal motivated by Chinese pressure? It’s a good thing as long as it was coordinated with President Obama and not the result of too many cooks in the kitchen.
It would be nice if Obama could keep Bill busy in more constructive endeavers. I bet Hillary would also appreciate it. Good job, Bubba!
Gotta share this line sent to me by a family member:
“Bill Clinton picks up chicks in N. Korea with a big white BBJ*”
*Boeing Business Jet
Euna Lee & Laura Ling are now enroute HOME!!!! And John Bolton aka global asshat says it was a mistake for Clinton to go. . . Maybe we could exchange Bolton for the 3 hikers who strayed into Iranian territory? One asshat for three boneheads?
And that’s how it’s done, Mr. Bolton. Now…what have *you* done lately? Ever?
We are seeing the wisdom of one Barack Obama. Bringing the Clintons into his administration in the way he did provided for a world of opportunity exactly like this. Brilliant move. He has allowed Bill Clinton to redeem himself on the world stage for the good of all. It’s just superb strategy. AND just watch … Obama will give him all the credit, which is exactly what Bill’s big ego needs. It’s masterful management.
How nice to see diplomacy at work.
I’m thinking that actions like these are what distinguish a politician from a statesman.
We need more of them.
Thank you president Clinton, President Obama and the entourage of unsung heroes who have worked this out.
Welcome home (soon) girls!
Bush Sr. pardoned the key witnesses regarding Iran/Contra.
Cinton’s campaign received some campaign money from someone with ties to China, not Bill Clinton.
John Bolton is an international joke. He and his cronies only made matters worse.
Good job Bill.
Diane: I very much enjoyed your city and spent some time in the Ozarks. I was very impressed with the Little Rock High School museum and was thrilled to see the High school itself. The statuary of the brave Little Rock Eight on the capitol grounds was a great inspiration. I came away with great respect for the changes in the city and state. [Double-wide
]
YES!!! I beleive that Bill is one of the best. Ever. Great job, well done.
believe…my mistake.
A hearty welcome home ladies.
Thanks Bill and President Obama, such diplomacy. I like, I like.
Glad you are back with us ladies and a double fist bump to President Obama and Ex President Clinton. Done with such diplomacy and statesmenship. Makes an old girl very proud.
Pyongyang had agreed to the releases before Clinton got there. But I’m sure the situation presented opportunities for discussion/negotiation on some of the other issues between the US and NK. Nicely done, I say.
WJC’s personal actions caused me to turn in my “D” card. Nice job!
Did he had to ask his wife and the POTUS for permission, probably…..
When will NK get with the program and feed itself instead of fighting a battle it lost 40 years ago? Feed your peeps, ill jong kim freak or whatever he calls himself. I bet he can see Hawaii from his castle.
sjk, this event will have been very carefully planned by the WH and State dept. He will have been asked to go as the best person for the job – skillful, knowledgeable, and with enough of a high profile to satisfy KIM without being “official”. Very well orchestrated, I say.
It went like this….
“Hi kim ill, this is Big Bill….Dont make me send The Hill, we dont want anybody killed….Alrighty then. We’re all good? (on the secure sat phone..”It’s all good. They’re comin’ home”)……”Kimmy ill, Where is that old brandy and those young movie starlets I hear you have a big stash of?”
Anyway, nice job to get them out!
This is what I like about Mudflats The commenters come out with great stuff.
#36 Cassie Jeep Pike Palin “I’m thinking that actions like these are what distinguish a politician from a statesman.
We need more of them.”
#34 BJA “We are seeing the wisdom of one Barack Obama. Bringing the Clintons into his administration in the way he did provided for a world of opportunity exactly like this. Brilliant move. He has allowed Bill Clinton to redeem himself on the world stage for the good of all. It’s just superb strategy. AND just watch … Obama will give him all the credit, which is exactly what Bill’s big ego needs. It’s masterful management.”
#32 Greatdog ” Maybe we could exchange Bolton for the 3 hikers who strayed into Iranian territory? One asshat for three boneheads?”
Welcome home soon Laura Ling and Euna Lee.
Fern, Agree 1000%!
Still have to take a jab at Slick Willy. I respect him, but his morals are part of his persona. All good!
sjk – you are on a roll today – “Feed your peeps, ill jong kim freak or whatever he calls himself….
I just read your QUITBULL comment on Gryphen’s blog and I hopped over here for a breather and a cold drink….
You guessed it – clean up on aisle 3! Too funny. Thanks very much, very much, also.
What a great day! Thank you, President Obama and former President Clinton!
Yeah, Clinton is an imperfect human, and we’ve had many, many years of listening to the rightwing bash him with every story they could dream up. But the proof is in the pudding, as mom used to say. Compare 8 years of Pres. Clinton to 8 years of frat boy Bush. I have no doubt that as the years pass and the country gains perspective, Clinton will be more kindly remembered and appreciated.
Bill Clinton is looking pretty good next to the Palins. Go figure mudpuppies.
A shout out to Al Gore too – he helped facilitate Clinton’s trip to NK. He as been working tirelessly to secure Laura’s and Euna’s release.
*has* not ‘as’. sorry.
I’m with you AK. He has managed to redeem himself a little today. Good for him. I am thrilled for the journalists and their families. What a wonderful day this is for them!
I have a deep respect for him and what he just accomplished. I think the Obama admin had a lot to do with it as well in terms of prep work- no way the ex POTUS leaves N. Korea without the journalists- this was well thought out and choreographed.
This demonstrates the fundamental difference between BO & Bush. A lot of behind the scenes negotiating to accomplish the task at hand. It is this very trait and ability to work behind the scenes and NOT create a huge scene that separates professionals from amateurs like the Wasilla Trailer Trash Hillbilly.
A show of respect goes a lot further than in-your-face vindictive hysterics.
President Clinton was not a disappointment to me, as he seemed to be for others. The media was disappointing, as was the hyprocracy of the right and Republicans.
@ # 51
Alaskan Sisu Says:
Bill Clinton is looking pretty good next to the Palins. Go figure mudpuppies.
*********
SP doesn’t deserve to be in the same sentence as Bill Clinton- let alone compared to him. That’s like comparing a a low life grifter to Einstein. They are so non sequitor the comparison is rendered moot.
OT, BUT—Wouldn’t it be a civil rights violation to disrupt a town meeting so that people could not exercise their freedom of speech?
#57
SP doesn’t deserve to be in the same sentence as Bill Clinton- let alone compared to him.
——
Amen to that thought!
You’ve got that right, tuetonic13. Also. There.
I just cried……I’m happy for the country, the families and the fact that Bill could get us out of a sticky situation once again……..
Bill’s a charismatic guy (and smart, too). I’m delighted that he got to show his stuff and was able and willing to do this. Good for him and good for our President.
We all need redeeming sometime.
Has anyone seen info regarding what time the plane will land in Los Angeles?
I would love to greet the plane, and I am so close to LAX.
I am so happy for their families. Can you imagine their celebration?
MinNJ, it wasn’t so much disappointment for me as frustration with his stupidity over the ML thing. Think of all the other things he could have accomplished if so much time had not been wasted on that nonsense? However negatively the media and Republicans can fairly be judged, it was Clinton who gave them the ammunition.
That said, for all of it, I think he was a very good President.
Also, too, another nail in the republican coffin.
…and I cried for the four-year-old daughter of one of the captives. *silly softie, sniffle*
Alaskan Sisu, I am in superfreak mode. BUT, Gryph lets me get away with more than AKM who has no problem scolding me when I misbehave!
Actually the total wit and intelligence of the posters and host(ess) here is beyond reproach.
“Is this where I am?”
sjk
Forty Watt
The media was never as salacious and drooling. It was disgusting on their part. I didn’t always agree with him, but that was ridiculous in the extreme. Extreme, considering our presidential history, and his ability to continue to keep the country going. As I live near the 9/11 site, I blame many for their eyes not being where they should have been. And I have yet to not be p#ssed off.
” Think of all the other things he could have accomplished if so much time had not been wasted on that nonsense? However negatively the media and Republicans can fairly be judged, it was Clinton who gave them the ammunition.”
They would have gone after him anyway. Monica was the ammunition, but they would have used something else if needed. I think he was stupid- geeze, if a bimbo flounces into the Oval Office and flaunts her thong, CALL SECURITY- but honestly, there would have been something- think of all they made up about him. Vince Foster’s murder, anyone?
OT Has anyone heard from Justafarmer today? There is seriously bad weather in KY … flash flooding, more torrential rain
In the words of Don Henley: “But I think it’s about…forgiveness, forgiveness, even if, even if you don’t love me anymore…” these lyrics can go a long way in many scenarios… time to embrace it and let’s all get along!!!!!
Ya know, about the only thing the average Republican can think of bad about Clinton was that he made a bold face lie on television in front of the American public by saying those famous words, “I did not have sex with that women!”. He lost my support when it was later proven to be a lie. Of course, they also have to mention the act itself, but he paid for it by being forever barred from practicing law again, as if he was, but besides, hey who doesn’t have a little blue dress in someones closet somewhere to haunt them! Besides, why didn’t she take it to the dry cleaners before she hung it back in her closet? Momento maybe? Yuck, the thought of it makes gives me goosebumps. I just don’t understand why Hillery took it so badly, maybe because I am a guy. Seriously though, I think he and Carter both did a pretty good job. At least Carter didn’t leave office with a huge deficit from over spending while in office like Reagon did. Remember Reagononmics? Simply put, that is just spending more than you take in.
Kudos to Bill! He’s done it again. I had much faith this morning when I learned of his mission but also didn’t want to get my hopes up.
But, my gut instint told me he’d bring them home. I cried when I saw the Headline at Huff Post and am greatly relieved for the two journalists. I can’t imagine what the wait has been long for them and their families.
And of course a huge Kudos to the O administration as this was certainly a well thought out plan and a good move to send Bill. This is one more affirmation that the right guy is in the White House and it will ‘all come out in the wash’.
Think of all the things that the media could have covered, including all of what Bush did to the Constitution and the treasury and blood of this country. A six trillion war that has not been included in the national debt against a country that was ‘contained.’ Bush was a liar on our national debt and the deaths of our countrymen and women.
what say you michelle bachmann? nevermind. just stfu, or not. we’d love to hear some MN word salad from ya. As a consolation prize, Pres Clinton has ill kim’s jongs birth cert. …just for you and glenda beck.
Sandra in Oregon #38:
I increasingly believe that awakened or transplanted Progressives, Dems, Yankees, Mudpuppies and the Bush Legacy, the “Party of NO” (or the “White Wingers” as I now love to call them) are the reason Arkansas has changed hue from red to light blue, since last November.
We SHALL overcome. Arkansas is the perfect metaphor for this change. As a transplanted Yankee (20 years now), it makes me happy
Now, if I could just stop folks from naming their “churches” Church of the Harvest Moon, Enduring Light Gospel, etc. I’d be even happier.
Shortly after the Lewinsky scandal, The Washington Post took a poll of 1000 women in the DC area, asking if they would have considered sleeping with Bill Clinton. 85% said …
Never again!
Clinton didn’t leave the country debt free, he left it deficit free.
LOL, Thanks, I needed the laugh.
I will have to go with AKM on this one and give him a gold star in this case,I voted for him first term but not second.I did not see much o0f anyone but Perot that seemed decent and honorable decent
a great news day!! thanks Bill Clinton, and the O administration for the finesse… i love HOPE…
With money to spare…ain’t that just sumthin?
Clinton is a master diplomat in spite of his “baggage”. I applaud him and Obama along with all those working in the background to make the release possible. I’m encouraged that this administration is willing to talk and engage diplomatically with our enemies even on a limited basis. It is a beginning and can only improve our image around the world. I imagine the right wingers will be screaming bloody murder about this. Sigh…
#65 Forty Watt Says:
August 4th, 2009 at 4:48 PM
“it wasn’t so much disappointment for me as frustration with his stupidity over the ML thing. Think of all the other things he could have accomplished if so much time had not been wasted on that nonsense? However negatively the media and Republicans can fairly be judged, it was Clinton who gave them the ammunition.”
============================
Nobody died when Clinton lied; the same cannot be said for GWB and his cohorts. Where is the impeachment of that crew? They have provided plenty of ammunition, yet absolutely no one had the cojones to go after them while they were in office and, apparently, now that they are gone. GWB has given plenty of ammunition; where is the impeachment?
@SameOld:
I’m OK…just really REALLY wet!
Thanks for asking!
sorry for the OT, folks…carry on…
The only real thing I care about when someone’s in office is whether they tend to their duties well. IMO, fooling around on your spouse is ugly and if you’re going to do it as an elected official, is enough to get me to not vote for you next time around but it’s not grounds for impeachment. If you’re doing well for the country/state/city/village , that’s the most important thing. But, if we find out you’re a heel/skank/liar on a personal level during your term, well then , expect backlash from the voting masses. But, impeachment based on “that depends on what the definition of ‘is’ is ” and a lie about an affair – Puhleeze. that was nutty.
Clinton may have some political shadows , But! He sure did leave us with some cash in the bank and the U.S. was still respected by most of the world while he was in office.
And on that note! Thank goodness for the release of these two women and Thank You to B. Clinton for his efforts , as well as for the efforts of all those behind the scenes, including those in N. Korea who made way the path for wiser heads to prevail, no matter their reasoning.
Happy Reunion to those families!! Happy Happy !!
As far as I am concerned, BJ Clinton was a flawed human but a well-intentioned president. He had to deal with Newt for a long time, don’t forget.
TBNTJudy, so true. Funny how some folks like ME left the D’s ’cause of morals, and the hardcore palin/kristol/malkin/bachmann/ et al wingnuts dont even see the death and reverse transfer of wealth that this “war” has caused.
And the long term cost for the heros that got IED’d and lived to suffer for NOTHING will be paid for the next 60 years!!!!!!! I hope they get the best health gov’t care available. I’m paying for their care and I DEMAND the best for the HEROS! And the rest of our citizens.
Hats of to Bill and the Obama administration.. Now I call that ACTUAL foreign policy.
Show them how professionals do things.. THANKS..
Anyone available for chat?
Pres Clinton is a charmer, and probably has charmed the pants off a few women, um, I mean people. =) I’m so very happy he was able to do this. Somehow I don’t think he sold his soul to the devil either.
Speaking of devils, just where is the devil in the blue dress, blue dress. =)
Ok Ok…
Here is my prediction.
In light of this great piece of news, basically dusting SP off the 24 hour news cycle, plus, the absolute pureness and goodness (I sound like a retard here) associated with this release of journalists, SP will have to rear her ugly head within the next 24 hours to somehow get back into the prime spot light.
She is so pathological- no doubt wringing her hands as the mirror mirror on the wall- tells her she is only “#2″ in all the land.
And Republican morals kept you in the party? I’m just askin’
I was at another site where they said SP’s facebook page is down. Is that true? What does it all mean?
See above prediction thing…
So… Expect tomorrow to be a BIG SP news day…..
And if you need these kinds of heroes, I”ve got them. Full of ‘em. New Hampshire’s plate says, ‘Live free or die.’ My uncle received the bronze star. Two retired as colonels. One did two tours in Iraq.
Bill Clinton left a budget surplus. And now it’s gone.
How come they didn’t send George W. over there on this mission?…
Sorry folks.. Just having a laugh..:)
.
@85 BuffaloGal- I soooo agree with you – impeachment (Clinton) was “nutty” as you say. Bush is the one who should have been impeached. But, the problem was – guess who would have been next in line? And third in line, was Senator Ted Stevens. —- Clinton/Gore/Obama getting the young American journalists home is awesome. What good news. Made my day.
Good on you Bill Clinton..You just shine a little brighter here…Welcome home Girls …
Hopefully, the took SP’s Facebook page down because she is in treatment. Well, one can always dream.
I worked on the Jerry Brown campaign because I thought ethically and socially he was a better choice than Bill Clinton. In the end I was pleasantly surprised at his performance. I am much more interested in his performance in his job than who he is fooling around on Hillary with. I had an uncle who worked for the state of Arkansas when B Clinton was Gov. He had only good things to say. I have issue with some of the things he did while president, but considering the whole picture in the end he comes out as a pretty good president. At least he does care about people and believe in democracy.
Gotta love Bill! Okay, well I gotta love him, I know that not quite everybody does, but…GO BILL!
I confess, in spite of Clinton’s peccadilloes, I have a soft spot in my heart for him. I think he was an awesome President and is now becoming a respected elder statesman for our country. I believe he has redeemed himself somewhat for the actions of his past. Hillary, too, is an amazing force and I adore her as Sec’y of State. She is made for the office!.
Huge diplomatic kudos to President Clinton and the terrific birthday present he is bringing home to President Obama. I am so happy for these ladies and their families.
I hope, too, in some way, this will benefit the ordinary people of North Korea who are suffering terribly under Kim Ill Jong.
Inspite of his faults, Bill Clinton was a good president. He is also a very intelligent diplomat. I’m so glad he was able to secure a release for these two women. I know their families must be ecstatic. I hope the headlines focus positively on this situation instead of the mediocre bs that’s been making the news lately. Great news for the US, let’s celebrate this accomplishment!
@justafarmer
Good to hear from you! Whew.
The GOP are so jealous. Why are they teaming up against Obama? Makes me sick. Glad Gore, Clintons are on the Obama team..
This is great news. Kudos to President Clinton. Wow. This reminds me of President Carter going over in the 90′s and convincing Dear Leaders father to shut down their nuclear program. Oh, talk about timing Rachel is talking about it now on the repeat of her show. Speaking with Bill Richardson who himself went to North Korea to secure the the remains of American service members killed in the Korean war. Ain’t diplomacy grand? I realize that Jimmy Carter and Bill Clinton aren’t on the best of terms but I find it interesting that they both have used the fact that they are ex-presidents to further the good of all people. I should also add the good works that Ex-president Al Gore has done since he has been out of office also (yes I said ex-president).
Bill Clinton is one smooooooth guy and he got the job done bringing those girls HOME. That is all that matters. Could Dubya have done the same thing? Hahahahahahahahah, I think not.
Saw this AP story in the Huffington Post about the behind-the-scenes work that lead to the journalists’ release:
…The journalists’ release followed weeks of quiet negotiations between the State Department and the North Korean mission to the United Nations, said Daniel Sneider, associate director of research at Stanford University’s Shorenstein Asia-Pacific Research Center.
Clinton “didn’t go to negotiate this, he went to reap the fruits of the negotiation,” Sneider said.
Pardoning Ling and Lee and having Clinton serving as their emissary served both North Korea’s need to continue maintaining that the two women had committed a crime and the Obama administration’s desire not to expend diplomatic capital winning their freedom, Sneider said.
“Nobody wanted this to be a distraction from the more substantially difficult issues we have with North Korea,” he said. “There was a desire by the administration to resolve this quietly and from the very beginning they didn’t allow it to become a huge public issue.”
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2009/08/04/north-korea-welcomes-bill_n_250682.html
So, it seems the groundwork was laid prior to Clinton’s trip…which is not to diminish his contribution to the positive outcome. Yeah!
Celia, I’m with you.
108 PhotonFlower Says:
August 4th, 2009 at 7:08 PM
“So, it seems the groundwork was laid prior to Clinton’s trip…which is not to diminish his contribution to the positive outcome. Yeah!”
.
Of course. He agreed to be the “pawn” in this diplomatic facade. Can you imagine the fRight Wing outcry had Sec. Clinton gone?
Just like the outcome had Hilary won the election and became POTUS there would have been a twofer and why not I say..
As I said earlier. Could you imagine sending W. McCain or Palin? Didn’t think so.
.
We, as a nation have no diplomatic relations with North Korea, if sending President Clinton over as a private citizen worked to bring two american journalists home, GREAT! I;m sure he didn’t fly there without permission from the Obama admin and most probably Hillary orchestrated this all. I am glad that they could ALL work together to get it done!!
The democratic legacy:
Pres.Bill Clinton—-Clinton intitiative to work on world problems, volunteering to step forward to go to NK
Pres. Jimmy Carter—as worked tiredlessly to ensure fair elections worldwide, and to work in the forfront with Habitat for Humanity at home
The republican legacy
Bush 1—— nothing
Bush2——-nothing(unless you consider poop scooping public service)
PhotonFlower: you must be very young.
TBNTJudy Says:
Nobody died when Clinton lied; the same cannot be said for GWB and his cohorts.
——————
Absolutely right! On a personal level, Clinton was somewhat less than admirable, BUT as a president, he left this country, and our status in the world, in much better shape than the presidents before and after him.
I’ve always said that a person HAS to be arrogant to even consider running for POTUS, but when they transform that arrogance into confidence and enthusiasm for the service to their country, they can accomplish a lot. This incident has once again proven that intelligent negotiation can succeed where yelling, bullying and threatening cannot (SP, are you paying attention?).
Congrats to Clinton and the many people working behind the scenes in the Obama administration to make it happen. Yayyy for the journalists and their families…we are all celebrating with you!
Given the choice between the man who screwed his intern or the man who screwed the whole United States…I’ll go with Bill over Dubya any day.
)
Yikes, I must have been very unclear in my last post to get your reactions!
Of course I’m aware that there’s preparation done prior to a quasi-state visit, but I hadn’t read Daniel Sneider’s comments before (about confirmed agreement from North Korea about the release), so I just thought I’d share that bit.
As I wrote, I was not diminishing Bill Clinton’s contribution to the positive outcome. Really! Truly! Look at my earlier comment on page one: I gave him and the O administration their due.
To MinNJ: Your comment that “you must be very young” seems tantamount to saying, “you are naïve.” Well, I hope not tragically so, but I guess most things are relative.
Clinton is what I call a good man, but a bad boy.
As for lying about his affair, every man lies about their affairs. Those that have affairs, anyway. I’m not personally guilty of any. I do NOT think Ken Starr had any business asking him about it, and it was an incredible waste of time to impeach him over his lie covering it up. I was young when Kennedy was in office, but I was awake and aware. He made Clinton look like a choir boy, but nobody cared except Jacqueline, and that’s how it should be…
Agree with Jim116- me too
So, any reason why this old news needs to be rehashed every time Bill Clinton does anything news-worthy?
116 Jim Says:
August 4th, 2009 at 7:36 PM
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YAWN!!!!!
…:)
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Congratulations to Bill Clinton, the Obama administration, and anyone else who worked tirelessly behind the scenes to get the two journalists released and back home. That’s what matters.
What wonderful news to wake up to. Love to think of the two girls getting home real soon and into the arms of their families. Thankyou to everybody that made this happen.
I have had their images up on my facebook page. A daily reminder to fight for them. I´ll put a party picture up once they are back safe and sound.
Happy, happy, happy
I hired Clinton to run my country, not his social life. The whole ML thing should have been between BC, HRC, and ML only, not the entire world. The whole impeachment thing was ridiculous.
And, I, also too there, would rather have a president who screwed his intern than one who screwed the entire country and other countries.
While I am glad the journalists are coming home and think that their punishment didn’t fit the crime, they are still guilty of breaking the law of another country. They played with fire and got burned.
It is incumbent on all journalists and travelers worldwide to know and respect the laws of other countries. While I’m not an “expert” on this particular case, it seems the girls were acting without forethought of the consequences for breaking the law.
They are very lucky that all the folks who pulled this off did so and did so with diplomacy and tact.
I am very grateful that to see that these two womens’ lives are important to the administration. It is wonderful news that they are finally free.
samper Says:
August 5th, 2009 at 12:59 AM
I hired Clinton to run my country, not his social life. The whole ML thing should have been between BC, HRC, and ML only, not the entire world. The whole impeachment thing was ridiculous.
And, I, also too there, would rather have a president who screwed his intern than one who screwed the entire country and other countries.
_______________
Cheers to you, samper! Growing up in WDC, I can assure everyone that some elected men are screwing around. A lot. Right now, the repubs seem to be taking up the banner. Sex happens.
Being overseas at the time when some shut down the governing the US over a bit of bj, let me assure you that the international response was “what the h3!! is the matter with Americans???” When a member of parlement tried to bring another member into question over an affair a la Clinton, he was forced to publicly apologize. The parlement refused to become “Americanized”.
Get over it and get out of people’s private lives. At least Clinton didn’t invent a stupid war in Iraq. Maybe Bush needed a little … umm…
President Carter actually WORKS for Habitat for Humanity! He and Roslyn build houses, they don’t just stop by to hold a hammer for a photo-op.
They are REAL Christians, unlike the Palin/Sanford/Ensign version of Christians.
I think Carter was one of the founders of Habitat for Humanity – not sure, need to research that – but it’ll have to wait until after work. dang.
think of me… lol
Nan
Predictably, John Bolton, Fat Boy, and the Haters and Traitors of Faux Noise are disappointed that the journalists are free and with their families.
Too bad those asshats couldn’t have been swapped, and be at hard labor for 12 years. It might do them some good and spare us their idiocy.
93 teutonic13 Says:
August 4th, 2009 at 6:16 PM
Ok Ok…
Here is my prediction.
In light of this great piece of news, basically dusting SP off the 24 hour news cycle, plus, the absolute pureness and goodness (I sound like a retard here) associated with this release of journalists, SP will have to rear her ugly head within the next 24 hours to somehow get back into the prime spot light.
She is so pathological- no doubt wringing her hands as the mirror mirror on the wall- tells her she is only “#2″ in all the land.
_____________________________________
@teutonic13 – It isn’t big news, but still had to get herself in there somehow. Didn’t take 24 hour either.
http://www.politico.com/blogs/bensmith/0809/Palin_calls_divorce_rumors_made_up.html?showall
Palin calls divorce rumors “made up”
Mike Allen had a brief phone conversation with Sarah Palin last night. In doing so, Palin knocked down divorce rumors — something her spokeswoman had already done over the weekend.
So why reiterate it again?
Who knows, but here is one guess: She and her advisers may have actually just wanted to put out that she was in New York City for book meetings and was there with husband Todd and the family.
In other words, a pre-emptive move before one of the NYC tabs or a blog up there saw her and ran an item.
From Playbook:
SARAH PALIN told Playbook in a brief phone call from New York City last night that she is NOT getting divorced, and that she and Todd have been talking about “our future together.” “Do you want to talk to Todd?” she asked. “He’s sitting right next to me.” But he didn’t come on the line. Sounding gushy as ever, the former governor called widespread blogosphere reports of a possible split “made up,” and quipped that she loves finding out “what’s goin’ on in my life from the news.” Palin said her upcoming book will convey a “pioneering spirit” and will “inspire those doing battle in their own lives.” She said she and the family had been doing “fun kids’ things” during her trip to Manhattan to meet with her publisher, HarperCollins Publishers.
Little Ms. Sarah, just so pathetically obvious!
Maybe they’ll hit Tiffany’s for a replacement wedding ring. Bet she gets a diamond this time around.
I am glad the young women are back but why is it our media has not even pointed out who is really at fault they ended up in prison? Does no one ever take responsibility for what they do? And no we have hikers in Iran we are left to negotiate out.
Bonnie. Whose fault do you think it is?
I’ve read accounts. There seems to be some question. The women may have not have been across the border; the N.K. border guards may have been overly zealous in arresting them.
As for the hikers, from what I read it is the hikers’ fault. But they’re still American citizens. Our government doesn’t abandon it’s citizens, no matter how stupid they are.
Now. Who are you blaming? (Al Gore? Because the women work for him?)
About the only positive thing I can say about Clinton’s term in office was that he kept the serious crazies at bay for eight years. Policy-wise, he did a very poor job, taking very few political risks and giving up way too soon on health care, gays in the military and other progressive initiatives (yes, Congress was against him but I hold him largely responsible for the ’94 loss because NAFTA drove so many of his erstwhile supporters to despair). Overall I give him a D+ (W gets an F in my book, RR a D-, GHWB a D- and Carter a C-). His finest hour was the Elian Gonzalez affair.
Like I said, I’m not an expert on this story. I haven’t followed as closely as perhaps I should have to offer any meaningful dialog.
But I’m going to try, anyway.
My UNDERSTANDING is that these JOURNALISTS (IOW: “out for a story”) snuck into a foreign country and did so illegally. That is just all kinds of stupid and crazy, given the country they were heading into. Even more so if one has a four-year old daughter at home.
I agree with Bonnie. They knew what they were doing and should have thought about the consequences. Certainly, these two are bright enough to know that when entering a foreign country… ANY foreign country… you show your passport, answer their questions honestly and give the prettiest American smile you can. You are cooperative and represent our country in a good light. You don’t go sneaking around for a story and expect no consequences.
All that said, and I’ll say it again: The punishment didn’t fit the crime. To OUR standards, anyway. We have to remember that what is just for another country could be way out of line in justice here. But those are the chances we take.
Remember that kid in Thailand who got caned for … what was it? Car vandalism or something? Americans were outraged, but in Thailand, it was a perfectly acceptable punishment (and I’d bet Thailand has a MUCH lower crime rate than the U.S. because of such punishments!).
Again, a stupid American goes into a foreign country and breaks the law and then the government has to go rescue them because WE don’t like THEIR brand of justice.
What WE don’t seem to “get” is that in a sovereign nation, THEIR brand of justice is what we agree to the minute we step foot on their soil. If you don’t like their brand of justice, don’t go there.
Or at least don’t go there while immediately breaking the law.
@samper
For some, I think, the draw of the story will always outweigh the potential danger and thus, these terrible things happen. It’s either extremely brave or extremely foolhardy depending on one’s perspective.
I am extremely relieved this story had a happy ending. I am also mindful that there may be an unexpected, unintended benefit brought about by what these women did. It’s such a slight, tenuous, gossamer hope that North Korea can be brought into the global fold and yet, it is there. Hope that one more threat can be defused and good can be born from evil.