An emotional Bush at last Fourth of July as president

It was his last Fourth of July as president -- and his first  visit to Monticello, the home of the author of the Declaration of Independence, Thomas Jefferson. It was not a long trip. It took the presidential party 40 minutes by helicopter from the White House -- plus a 10-minute motorcade -- to arrive at the home Jefferson built for himself and his family in Charlottesville, Va. 

The president's stated purpose was to welcome and attend the swearing-in of 72 new citizens from 30 countries, including one from Burma. But his voice  showed emotion when he talked about spreading freedom to other countries, one of his stated rationales for the war in Iraq. Quoting Jefferson as saying that the principles of the Declaration were universal, Bush said: "We honor Jefferson's legacy by aiding the rise of liberty in lands that do not know the blessings of freedom." Without mentioning Iraq, Afghanistan or the war on terrorism, he added, "And on this Fourth of July, we pay tribute to the brave men and women who wear the uniform of the United States of America." Watch the video here.

Bush was interrupted repeatedly by protesters, shouting  "Defend the Constitution, Impeach Bush!" and "War Criminal!" Bush diverged from his prepared remarks to respond to the hecklers, explaining to
America's newest citizens, "We believe in free speech in the United States of America."

One of the protesters, David Swanson, has gone online to explain his behavior, saying

When Bush opened his mouth to speak I shouted "Defend the Constitution, Impeach Bush!" I repeated that several times, as people nearby knocked me over, cops handcuffed me, people gave me smiles and thumbs up signs. They threw me out and a couple of more defenders of our Constitution behind me, and then a few more, and then a few more. The handcuffed citizens who'd done their duty kept coming down the hill. They did not arrest us but did give us a ride down the mountain where we joined a crowd of protesters in the road who greeted Bush's limo coming and going.

Bush, who celebrates his 62nd birthday on Sunday, said he was delighted to spend part of the weekend at  the home of the nation's third president, who died on July 4, 1826, the 50th birthday of the United States.

"This is a fitting place to celebrate our nation's independence," Bush said. "Thomas Jefferson once said he'd rather celebrate the Fourth of July than his own birthday. To me, it's pretty simple -- the Fourth of July weekend is my weekend birthday."

Praising Jefferson's achievements -- a well-read man whose book collection formed the basis of the Library of Congress -- Bush noted that although Jefferson was the nation's first secretary of State, second vice president and third president, he hated public speaking. Alluding to his own reputation for muffing a speech line from time to time, Bush said, "It seems Jefferson got away with only delivering two public speeches during his presidency." Pausing for the laugh, he added, "I'm sure a lot of Americans wish that were the case today."

Full video of the speech after the jump

-- Johanna Neuman

Comments

[Michael]

What a farce, he should be hanging his head in shame, hes done more damage to this country then any of the terrorists he wants us to fear.

Protesters stink. GO BUSH!

[VLM]

What a shame that our younger generation can't understand what it means to become a citizen of this great country of ours. Hopefully someday they will mature enough that it makes an undaunting impression upon them. I have sat through many naturalization proceedings while serving in our U.S. Court system and each time I was so proud to be able to welcome the new citizens into our country. It must be a real dissapointment for the immigrants to have to endure the immaturity and hatred of these protesters. Most of the protesters are spoiled brats that have no concern for anything but themselves. They should lock them up and throw away the keys. As far as I'm concerned, they are outcasts and deserve severe punishment. There is a place for free speech, and this definitely is not the place nor the time for such hatred.

[FloridaCounts]

On Indepedence day, Bush represents the office and this is a meaningful ceremony, especially for teaching young people. There are plenty other days for protesters to call names and no president can please all. David Swanson and his fellow protesters stained the tradition. Shame on their ignorance.

[NinaK]

Indeed, we all have the freedom of speech, EXCEPT when people like General Clark say that being shot down and being a POW does not qualify McCain for President!! McCain and his campaign immediate attacked Senator Obama and called for an apology from him. Why do they expect Senator Obama to apologize to McCain?? General Clarke is a supporter of Senator Obama, he is NOT a member of his campaign team. Do the rest of us have to apologize to McCain because we agree with General Clarke?? Freedom of speech, indeed!! Anyone can say whatever they want against Senator Obama, but God help us if we say anything, even when it is true, agaisnt Senator McCain!! I do NOT call this "freedom of speech", I call it the freedom for McCain to say and do whatever he and his campaign want against Senator Obama" And that seems to be the ONLY freedsom of speech allowed by McCain. McCain is one sad elderly man who has run for the Office of the Presidency how many times? With McCain, look to World War Three!! Vote Obama and at the very least we can look for peace with other countries through diplomatic means and not by war and agression.

[twin mom in cville]

It is unfortunate that the rabblerousers haven't figured out that this event at Monticello was not about THEM, and having their 15 minutes of fame. It wasn't about Bush, or politics. Yes, we have freedom of speech, and they have the right to protest. But that doesn't mean they should selfishly try to steal the celebration from the people that this event was for - the newest citizens of our country and their families who came to Monticello to bask in the glory of our country and its freedoms. Many of them came to the US to start a new life in the Land of Opportunity, and the Land of Freedom, escaping poverty and injustice. So what do these clowns show them about America? That they are so self-centered and in need of attention that they have to disrupt this commemoration of Freedom. I may not agree with some of the decisions our leaders make, but I am smart enough to know that these foolish protests won't make any difference. If these folks were really interested in change, they would use their intellect to participate in the political process, or volunteer for some of the organizations that make the world a better place for others less fortunate. But that would be hard work, and they might have to do it in obscurity - more fun to try to get on camera, kicking and screaming like a two year old throwing a temper tantrum. Why don't they just grow up??

[Richard]

Even though people have the right of free speech that right ends when it interferes with other peoples right to hear free speech. To heckle some body when they are trying to speak is interfering with their right to free speech, not to mention that it is cowardly, and in bad taste, and is wrong. Even though do not like president bush he is the president of the united states and commands a certain kind of respect. The people that do not give this respect are about as good as the terrorist in Iran and do not deserve the protection that the constitution guaranties to citizens of this country. If you want to disagree with the president find a forum to speak that does not interfere with our rights. You are not more important than the people that do not want to be disturbed y you.

[Will Jones]

Americans should be grateful that some in Virginia this morning stood in the stead of all Patriots and reflected well on the Author of American Independence, Founder and Prophet, Thomas Jefferson, by openly protesting the defilement of Monticello by the homosexual draft-dodger, cheated into the White House by only the Roman Catholics on the Supreme Court, who has been allowed to commit 9-11 for false war murder.

Mr. Jefferson called it "the real Anti-Christ;" any think him or herself smarter than America's Founder?

http://www.theamericanfundament.blogspot.com

[Fred]

It's an insult to Jefferson that such a moron every made it to the White House. But, of course, anything is possible when you start off with a plan to defraud and cheat the country.

Bush loves to talk about “freedom” because it’s easy to say and requires little explanation. If he studied up on freedom, just a little bit (using “the Google”), he would know that “freedom” is meaningless without “order,” as the great philosophy Goethe wrote. It’s a disgrace that he didn’t consider this before invading Iraq and ruining the lives of millions and killing ten (and perhaps hundreds) of thousands of innocents. He did it all in the name of freedom, thinking that a democratically run election is a cure to all evils.

Bush is a war criminal and should be tried as such. His recklessness and abuse of power – both political and military – has greatly tarnished the image of the US. If we as Americans truly believe in our own Constitution and the rule of law, we have no choice but to see to it that Bush is tried in the war crimes court in the Hague.

[Jack]

Jefferson would have been shocked and appalled by Bush's actions in Iraq. For Bush to try to wrap himself in Jefferson's mantle only underscores the president's arrogance and the public's ignorance in allowing this tyrant to prattle on without any accountability.

[jr]

there does exists a patriotism of dissent. But of all the types of patriotism, the least common one is dissent. Probably less than 5% of all patriotic expressions are achieved through dissent. Yet... that seems to be dominant mode of expression from the left. And when I ask them, what are they patriotic about positively for this country, they always cite the very things that allow them to practice their patriotism through dissent (freedom of speech, assembly, etc).

They never step back and look at themselves. You just stood up at a celebration for these new citizens, a special day marking their hard work and commitment, and you just pissed all over it. Because you believe your right to express yourself means more than their rights to... I don't know... not have their special moment pissed on?

And that's the real truth about it. It's all about you. You all think you're speaking truth to power, but what you're doing is screaming fantasy at reality. Just because you watched farenheit911 and couldn't bother to watch farenhype 911... we all have to be subject to your Bush Derrangement Syndrome?

[Holly M.]

I support my president. The protesters may do as they wish, as long as it is safe and does not impinge on my right to hear my president speak. I just ignore them if i do not agree with them. I follow my own thoughts and heart as America gives me a right to do. All should be able to do the same.

[jason]

i disagree with anyone who says a protester should not speak out on the 4th of July. Give me a break.

Independence? Are you KIDDING me?
Freedom? The rich and the corporate are the only ones who have either - the rest of us are busy having every freedom taken away from us, along with any semblence of faith in what's right and decent.

This is a dictatorship, in which citizens have no constitutionally protected rights at all - just priveleges which can be retracted at the whim of the rich and powerful.

F*ck America.

[Chris]

I don't know what kind of show he is making. How can he be so emotional when he just thousands of Soldiers involuntarily to active duty for 2 years of further war in Iraq and Afghanistan. You know it's because he want's to attack Iran now.

[compurgator]

How dare this Constitutional saboteur profane Monticello with his presence?

If he's "sad," it's only because he sees (a) his inability to continue to enrich his buddies and insure his own furutre by spending the blood, homes, and savings of real Americans, waning, and (b) the possibility of indictment after he leaves office looming ever larger.

On the other hand, these are all likely concepts with which he is unable to come to grips. He's just too elementally stupid.

[Bernie]

George Bush welcoming anyone into this country is a farce. In fact the only tragedy is the man's decided to do anything worthwhile during his last few months as the world's leading terrorist. His praise of presidents before him's a swan song on a dismal black stain that is his 2 terms as president on our red, white, and blue.

[Luther Brixton]

It's truly digraceful, and speaks volumes to the ignorance of too many Americans, that anyone would place George Bush's contempible, Constitution-destroying regime and his disgraceful "presidency" before the very ideals the country stands on - and which Bush abhors! Apparently, if there's a Republican president, then suddenly the office becomes sacred in some people's warped minds, but the fact that our nation under Bush has done irreparable damage to American principles both at home and abroad (illegally wiretaping US citizens, greenlighting & commiting torture, sending US troops to die in vain on a pack of lies, and outing CIA agents, while Osama Bin Laden 7 years after 9.11 couldn't be more victorious against the USA) doesn't bother some people in the least. Apparently, people opposed to protestors defending the Constitution, believe the GOP is much more important than the United States of Amereica and the Constitution this imbecile has been hell-bent on dismantling... There's no doubt that every immigrant entering the United States is more aware of this country's ideals and laws than the Connecticut, Harvard-pedigreed cowboy ever cared to learn. So much for swearing on the BIble - before God - to uphold the Constitution!

[dunite2000]

Anybody defending Bush at this point in time needs to have thier head checked. All of you defenders need to throw away the rose colored glasses he sold you back in 2000 because the reality shows you as a bunch of sheep still wallowing in the dark. Bush has sunk our economy AND put us in a war with no end, oh and has the rest of the world is either laughing at/or hating us! Thomas Jefferson would have hated Bush and admonished all those who elected the moron 2 terms.He should have rounded up a truck load of illegal day laborers from Crawford (TX) and made them citizens. He would have actually solved 2 problems at the same time,now there's a first.

Dismissing these actions of protest as the misguided or selfish behavior of the young and/or affluent is ignorant. As soon as Bush attends the ceremony, he makes it fundamentally about him. Protesters are not ruining these new citizen's day, and the majority of them, like the majority of America, probably agree with the protester's feeling, if not their actions. Regardless of how you feel about the protestors' decision to act (and you are certainly entitled to your opinion), advocating "severe punishment" for them, suggesting they be permanently incarcerated, and using language like "Commemoration of Freedom" sounds terrifying and frankly fascist.

Instead of blinding worshiping symbols of America how about considering what men like Jefferson, whose home Bush spoke at, intended for America to symbolize. The Constitution they gave us, their great contribution to mankind, has been damaged and undermined by George W. Bush than by any single individual in the history of the United States. Would they not want people to speak out? Maybe when the media no longer does its job, some people feel that protests such as these are their last resort? Maybe they're trying to get attention for a cause they desperately believe in (effectively or not), rather than simply seeking personal attention through childish temper tantrums.

PS: Richard: This is the dumbest thing I have ever heard, at least in the context in which you're using it:

"Even though people have the right of free speech that right ends when it interferes with other peoples right to hear free speech."

I guess the logical conclusion is that vocalizing opposition to the words or presence of a public speaker is unconstitutional? Yikes!

[BAY]

GwB has based his leadership on lies, secrecy,intimidation, torture, rendition,and blunt force. The former soviet union was based of lies how long do you thing the USA will stand if we do not stand up against his impeachable crimes and see that his entire cabal is brought to world justice. Nothing else will do and nothing else will tell the world that democracy does work some times it takes awhile. The World is watching and waiting for Americans to wake Up and smarten up and do what is right.

[Chris]

Congrats to the New Country Men and Women.... These People that protest during an event like this are a waste. Mr. Bush Gods Speed and Blessings upon you sir. I only wish we had you for another 8 years. As for Obama this is a strait Azz Clown put him in and we are screwed for sure.

[Matt]

Regrading NinaK commentary on the Obama/Clark/McCain Freedom of speech issue. McCain never asked that clark be muzzled, he expressed his free speech right to take offense and ask fo ran apology .... Obama isnt forced to give on e.. we are all free to decide what this means to us in the election. I come down on the side of McCain, without anger at Obama.

Free Speech doesnt mean we have to agree with everything said.

[Faye Bowring]

What is so sad on this day, is the amount of ignorant and trash comments on this site by people that are permitted free speech (no matter how offensive) on a special day that, unfortunately, they don't have a clue what it is all about. Your hatred, disrespect, and unAmerican comments are pathetic and thankfully do not represent a majority. Amen for that!

[Sohail]

It's such a shame that Bush is able to lie to and manipulate the most vulnerable citizens of the US, the ones with the least education and knowledge of history and they in turn defend HIM for lying to them! It's worse still that a war criminal like this would try to use Jefferson to justify any of his acts (then again he has already used Jesus).

[Thomas Moore]

Why is every1 writing paragraphs for comments? do yall think any1 bothers to read..i dont think so

[Lady Liberty]

Yes, we all love America, so everything we do is great and wonderful and powerful. God, it feels good to be American ... a land where we can protest because all we really want is attention and not because we want to express our "freedom of speech" to a speaker or audience ... a land where all protestors (like our Forefathers) are nothing but hippies and liberals and terrorist sympathizers ... a land where we love our brave soldiers and Marines so much we''re willing to do nothing to save them except to write hateful anonymous comments while they stand in harms way to protect our ignorance ... a land where we can hate everyone for everything regardless of personal responsibility for real harm done to others ... a land where our children and grandchildren will suffer from our collective refusal to have done nothing about anything except to blame "them" for our troubles. Happy dependence on Saudi Arabian oil! No worries, soon we’ll have Iraq’s and we can always get more from Iran. In the meantime, let''s all go escape to a firework show to scream "ooh" and "awe".

[Tom]

Jefferson would have been outraged to see the damage Bush has inflicted on his country and its laws. How offensive to see this moron at Monticello. He belongs on trial in court for his crimes.

[J B HAAS,SR.]

THE IMMATURE MINDS OF THOSE THAT THINK SHOUTING OBCENITIES AND MAKING FOOLS OF THEMSELVES AT THE SITE OF A SPEECH BY THE PRESIDENT, ANY PRESIDENT, ALL PRESIDENTS ARE MUCH THE SAME AS THAT OF A BABY THAT HAS SOILED IT'S DIAPER. THEY ARE UNDEDUCATED AS TO HOW OR WHAT THEY WANT BUT CRYING AND SHOUTING FOR OTHERS TO TAKE CARE OF THEM. WHEN THEY ARE IN THIS UNINFORMED STATUS THEY USUALLY CLOISTER IN ONE SPECIFIC PARTY AND LATER WHEN THEY BECOME EDUCATED AND SEE THE NEED FOR CONCERN TO BE OBJECTIVE AND THOUGHTFUL, THEY USUALLY MIGRATE TO THE OTHER POLITICAL PARTY. PERHAPS AND HOPEFULLY THEY WILL LEARN SOME COMMON SENSE, MANNERS AND MATURING ALONG THE WAY.

[Joe]

@VLM: People like you are exactly the reason why people shout down W at ceremonies.

Sure. Let's take peaceful demonstrators and lock them up and throw away the key. Then we'll be exactly like MYANMAR. You idiot. Statements like this are proof that the mentally handicapped have taken over the country.

The fourth of July is our celebration of the values that make this country great, such as freedom of THOUGHT, freedom of SPEECH, the right to PEACEFUL ASSEMBLY, and many other things that other countries lacked.

Bush invaded a sovereign nation that posed no threat to America and has created a nightmare in terms of two million homeless Iraqi refugees, 200,000 dead citizens who were just fine under Saddam, and 4,000 dead coalition soldiers. By any definition, by all measures, invading Iraq Bush has exacerbated terrorism.

This man has singlehandedly done more damage to our FREEDOMS and invoked more HATRED than any other president in the history of our great country.

I WISH I could have stood with those protestors and shamed this horrible man.

[Lorna]

President Bush isn't perfect, but he still beats the heck out of Al Gore! Good heavens.

God bless America.

[Ray]

God bless America and George and Laura Bush.

[Kendall]

There is a time and place for everything.
This was NOT the time nor the place for a protest.

[Gus]

Swenson has a constitutional right to protest, which he did peacefully. Bush responded graciosuly, though from his prior record he is hypocritical: He showed his true colors when he called reputable reporters "assholes" when they asked awkward questions ("private comment to the vice-president", indeed!). He has characterised Americans who disagreed with his (Incorrect as it turned out) positions as traitors, unpatriotic and "against us", whoever "us" is. IMPEACH WHILE HE IS STILL PRESIDENT.

[Web Smith]

Instead of hot dogs, beer, and firecrackers, today would be a great day to celebrate by reading the Declaration of Independence and The Constitution. Both of them are very short but they are the two most effective documents on the planet. Most people have actually never read them. Many people have read the Bill of Rights but never the entire Constitution. Now would be a good time to do so.

Take a pad and pen and, as you read them, jot down the things that we are dealing with today that resulted in the Declaration of Independence and the things in the Constitution that are being violated. You will then have a list of the things that are causing the problems that we are now facing.

It is said that only 5% of a population will fight for their country. At this point, you still don't have to fight. You only have to vote.

You only have to Google them.

[Bill]

To all who have said that this was not the "time or place" for protest, you deserve none of the rights conferred to you by those brave enough to protest the rule of a corrupt society. Giving Bush a free pass is not acceptable, he has done too much bad to be rewarded with "respect". Patriotism and defense of rights does not entail meekly following along with the White House. True patriotism is loving a country enough to protest its destruction despite imbeciles marching in lockstep with a failed leader trying to silence you.

[Cornwallis]

He is one pathetic human being

[Linda Roper]

I am afraid that in 4 years people will wish that they still had Bush or someone like him as their president.

[dfs]

"Protestors" (if we are going to dignify them with that word) of this kind are really nothing more than ego-tripping exhibitionists. Some nutball acts out in public and imagines he's a new Thoreau. Outside the confines of his own imagination, he's really accomplishing nothing more than discrediting the cause he stands for and gaining sympathy for whatever he's against.

[Oregon Engineer]

Isn't it about time to give the irrational Bush hatred a rest? Mean bullies are never very attractive, and the toadies who pile on after the bullies have given the guy a bloody nose are despicable.

[bill j]

I voted for Bush. He embarrasses me. I can' t imagine a president living so close to Monticello and not visiting it in eight years. When he does, it's only as political theater. Shows a real lack of intellectual depth and curiosity. A sad legacy.

[Joe johnson]

I wonder what the new citizens thought about the protests.

[Charles Lopez]

This beats all the propaganda that has come out of this Administration! We bomb the hell out of Iraq and this is for FREEDOM.
They have killed thousands of people in Iraq all in the name of Freedom.
This War has been a cash cow for the Oil companies, and the contractors.
Bush is a Oil man and Chenney is with Haliburton.
Conflict of interest!!!!!!!
How many Lawyers do we have in the Congress!!!!! Maybe they should hire one.
Oh I forgot you don't need a lawyer with a no bid contract.

[Albert A]

On this July 4 I ask each one of the supporters of the current occupant of the White House to remember:
1) Bush lied and thousands have died
2) Bush has made a raid on the treasury and has destroyed American prestige around the world
3) the actions of this man and his minions could be considered treason
4) there is a real possibility that Bush,Cheney, Rumsfeld or Rice could be indicted for war crimes
5)that this is the 2nd time in 20 years a Bush has been at the heart of a financial crisis....remember and the savings and loan collapse...that cost the taxpayers over $1B and left the Federal Government owning approximately 60% of Colorado Springs
To say shame on you to protesters is completely wrong...Ron Kovic was a Vietnam veteran....go and reacquaint yourself with his story..."Born on the Fourth of July"

[Kelly Wright]

I do not agree/disagree with Bush taking us to Iraq. I do disagree with the way it has been handled. We should have sent enough troops to Iraq, as we did in Desert Storm, to handle anything the Arabs terroist could throw at us. As for the protesters they should have honored and welcomed our new citizens. This was not the time or place for a protest against Bush. There will always be selfish, uninformed idiots. As Murphy's law states: light travels faster than sound and that is the reason people appear bright until they speak.

[Connie Warner]

Thomas Jefferson is ROLLING OVER. BLESS THOSE PROTESTERS!!

[Jim]

It's amazing how none of the incalculable damage Bush has inflicted on the World has changed him one iota. If anything, he's become more smug and calculating. Too bad Pelosi is a sold out Neocrat, no President has ever come close to being as Impeachable as this useless sack of you-know-what. The Founding Fathers would have him drawn and quartered.

[Fernando]

I think is kind of funny to watch these people open their mouth, and I would appreciate if Mr. David Swanson stops calling him self or any of the immature selfish protestors a “Defender of the Constitution…”, because as a proud American citizen I can say that it takes more that interrupting the President of the United States, when he is giving a speech, to be called a defender of the constitution. Every one has the God-giving right to speak his/her mind, but, these protestors need to understand that like VLM said, there is a time and place for protesting, that was definitely not the time nor the place for that. Mr. David Swanson reminds me of those crazy fundamentalist that where protesting the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan at the commentaries where the soldiers who lost their lives where been buried; once aging, not the time and definitely not the place. I may not concur with Mr. Bush’s policies, but if I have something to say, I’ll do it in a responsible and respectful manner, and not at the expense of others.

[Brian B]

I agree that Bush should be brought up on war crime charges. After seeing shows on PBS about Hitler and Bush my 8 year old thinks they are the same person

[Ben Romero]

What's wrong with some people of this country? What's wrong with the media? The media here, like in many countries, is a destructive instrument. I am a Colombian born, I am also a USA's citizense and I know what the cost of freedom is. We have sufferred the killing and kidnapping of thousands for more than 40 years and we are still strugling for peace. Mr George W. Bush is perhaps the president of this country that has faced so many national desasters, one major terrorist attack and two war fromts. Add to that the opposition of Democratic Congress that says no to every intent of advance. A lot of people of this country, including some of the media people are no different than Hugo Chavez that called "Satan" to our president. Bush is a decent person. He has been a good example to the youth of this country. No sex scandals for 8 years at the White House coming from our President!

[william monaghan]

Thomas Jefferson would have applauded the freedom David Swanson that
enjoyed in speaking out at Monticello. That is the very essence of what Democracy in all about.

I think it was entirely inappropriate for our president to state that "We honor
Jefferson's legacy by aiding the rise of liberty in lands that do not know the
blessings of freedom." Instead we dishonered his legacy by forcing liberty down
Iraq's throat while killing hundreds of thousand their citizens.

[kathryn]

It is interesting to observe the actions and read the opinions of spoiled children who display such poor manners and lack of knowledge of history. They play into the hands of demagogues who promote feelings and emotion instead of knowledge. It is frightening how much play they receive in the media as opposed to most citizens who work hard in creating a country that offers the best opportunities for freedom and the opportunity for personal and family economic growth. Those new citizens, I am sure, could relate stories of their lives that many of us either would not have visualized nor survived. Let us appreciate the country that was established by our forefathers and work to make it better, not continually try to destroy it with the belief that there is a perfect nirvana. Fortunately, the country that gives them the opportunity to behave as childish fools, obligates the rest of us to bear their irresponsible behavior and speech - That is America and I love it.

[Brian]

Interestingly, it seems that even as Bush proclaims his belief in free speech, people are being roughhoused and handcuffed for merely shouting things out.

Also, a laugh goes out to the interpreters of free speech here, who believe that there should be ground rules set for where and when free speech should be exercised.

[Ferguson Powassin]

What is happening in Iraq or Afghanistan is not a war. The process that we are going is going to lead to peace, not only for those in these countries, but also for us here in Canada and the States. Building peace means helping those governments economically and socially. We need to provide these new democratic nations with the tools-not only cash and weapons, but also the knowledge- necessary to enforce the rule of law. The rule of law is the greatest principle.

We must not allow evil peoples to stockpile their weapons, personnel and capacity because they might have the ability in the future to attack us with a weapon that is unconventional or unlawful. One of these days, and this will be in our lifetime, Iraq and Afghanistan is going to have hospitals, schools, a strong military, effective policing, freedom and good government- and this is when our duty will be over.

Only a romantic would think that the world would be a better place if we did not engage in these activities.

[Matt]

I can't begin to express how warm and fuzzy I get when I see all those protesters screaming their heads off and generally showing the world how miserable they are - that's because most of them voted for Nader back in 2000, when they were repeating in their geese like mantra - there's no difference between Bush and Gore! There's no difference between Bush and Gore! Ha ha... Ha ha ha... Stupidity is it's own reward.

[kathryn]

It is interesting to observe the actions and read the opinions of spoiled children who display such poor manners and lack of knowledge of history. They play into the hands of demagogues who promote feelings and emotion instead of knowledge. It is frightening how much play they receive in the media as opposed to most citizens who work hard in creating a country that offers the best opportunities for freedom and the opportunity for personal and family economic growth. Those new citizens, I am sure, could relate stories of their lives that many of us either would not have visualized nor survived. Let us appreciate the country that was established by our forefathers and work to make it better, not continually try to destroy it with the belief that there is a perfect nirvana. Fortunately, the country that gives them the opportunity to behave as childish fools, obligates the rest of us to bear their irresponsible behavior and speech - That is America and I love it.

"I wonder what the new citizens thought about the protests."

probably didn't surprise them because most of the world hates bush, they probably see more anti bush stuff in their own countries than we do here.

[Chris B]

I think that Bush has had enough of being President. His administration was a disappointment to me. I would've supported him if it wasn't for Iraq, the economy, the housing market, the gas market, every market, and a lot of things that are bad. Bush is a lame duck, and he is useless. I think we should cut him some slack and let him enjoy this holiday, this American holiday, his last July 4th.

[Broc Lee]

To the person who stated...

"There is a place for free speech, and this definitely is not the place nor the time for such hatred."

Really? what is the right time and place? Free speech is free speech without limitations... when you limit speech or where and when it should be spoken, then it's no longer free.

For a country that is so "FREE" we sure have a lot of restrictions on these so called freedoms, these people should have been allowed to express themselves. PERIOD!

Where you may not agree, you are free to do so, but to say that protesters should be prosecuted is just plain IGNORANT and limits the freedom of both YOU and ME.

[cptlou]

there is freedom of speech still in this GREAT country. There is also freedom to have lack of class. all these people showed a lack of class. perhaps if this happened during president wilson's administration, these folks would have faced prison time. read chapter 3 of liberal fascism by goldberg and you will understand.

[Michael Wu]

I thank God for the dedication of President and Mrs George W Bush to our country. He is one of the most humble leaders I have ever seen in history. God bless America!

[Mary]

It's amazing what morons are being raised today! What an embarrassment... God Bless President Bush & those who still know how to behave and live with decency and virtue!

[john]

All the Deranged Bush Haters that are "expressing their freedon of speech" seem to forget that there is a Dummicratic Congress with a lower approval rating than Bush AND keep approving the war purse they "promised" to end.
Get a life losers, Flip-Flobama is not the savior. He is merely pandering just as the 06 Congessonal candidates. Has anything changed?
Oh yeah, Happy 4th!

[Broc Lee]

To the person who stated...

"There is a place for free speech, and this definitely is not the place nor the time for such hatred."

Really? what is the right time and place? Free speech is free speech without limitations... when you limit speech or where and when it should be spoken, then it's no longer free.

For a country that is so "FREE" we sure have a lot of restrictions on these so called freedoms, these people should have been allowed to express themselves. PERIOD!

Where you may not agree, you are free to do so, but to say that protesters should be prosecuted is just plain IGNORANT and limits the freedom of both YOU and ME.

[Open Your Eyes & Minds]

Historically speaking; anytime our leader speaks IS the time for outcry if in difference of opinion. It's our right per what's left of the Constitution. We have so few rights left, I for one, am grateful that protesting is still granted.
George Bush is a ridiculous pawn of a tiny man who can barely form a paragraph let alone lead a country. Fortunately for him there are real evil geniuses at work behind the curtain pulling his string. So he can go down in history as a leader fighting against terrorism (which only exists in the U.S's greedy bank accounts) or as the ridiculous puppet who made the world cringe for his stupidity.
The U.S. is dead folks. Got any ideas how we can reclaim it?

[Paul]

Bush should be brought before a tribunal and tried for war crimes and should have been impeached long ago for his abuse of power and continual violation of the rights of US citizens. He is an international disgrace!

[Linda]

Anyone who agrees with GW is either brainwashed or just a stuffed shirt, selfish, money grubbing Republican. I know a FEW Republicans who don't fit all those descriptions, but that's because they are just stupid and misguided. They haven't seen the light. George W. Bush is a disgrace to this country. He has done more damage than ANY President in history. Any man who has stepped up and vowed to help THIS country and not so much the rest of the world, has been killed. We have people right here in the US who need help and cannot get it because GW is a WAR TIME president. He has done more to divide this country than to unite it. I thought he was a "Uniter".

The children of this country see much worse than protestors voicing their concerns. What better time to do that than on Independence Day? My hope is that someone in authority will come to their senses and bring charges against GW, Dick Cheney, Donald Rumsfeld and all the other war criminals that we are harboring and making heroes out of.

Goodbye and Good Riddance, that's how I feel about his last 4th of July in office. Emotional? He's just mad 'cause he can't play war anymore.

[Griffin Anderson]

Why does Bush, an anti-intellectual yahoo who prides himself on all he has NOT read, feel it necessary to pollute the grounds and the air of Montecello, home of Thomas Jefferson, whose private library was purchased by a new, raw country to form the core collection of the new Library of Congress?

It may be only one further indignity from the person who has undermined our Constitution, our legal system, our values and our honor among nations, but to a Virginian who has visited Montecello MORE than once, it is an indignity that stings very smartly indeed.

[Jason]

It is all too fitting for Bush to be heckled on the 4th of July. Jefferson is turning in his grave from what this man has done with the great ideals that he and the other founding fathers used to create this nation. Those people are true patriots and I thank them for having the courage to do this.

[Grand Rapids]

STOP saying 'god given right' people!!!! There IS no god anymore than Tonka Trucks are god. You sound foolish when you say such idiocy.
Seriously, read something besides fairy tales!

[Mark D]

I respect David Swanson and other protesters who have the courage to stand up and say what millions of other Americans are thinking. George Bush is a disgrace to the USA, something that every American should feel regardless of party affiliation. He is a man who has done far more damage to the nation than Osama Bin Laden or any terrorist. He has undermined civil rights, misled a nation into a war in which hundreds of thousands have died, passively watched while one of the nations great cities was flooded, let Osama Bin Laden get away with the crime of the century (at least in the USA), and made us a nation of torturers. I could go on, but there should be a deep sense of shame for anyone whoever supported George Bush. He is the face of modern day Evil in the United States.

[Simon]

Swanson and his likes scramble for their 15-minute fame under the pretext of defending our constitution. If you didnt know, Swanson is *very* ignorant! Some liberals brainwashed him when he was young and now he goes around parading his ignorance. The fact of the matter is he is an irrational democrat. Wish we had more informed and smart Democrats like Obama. We would have avoided eight years of misery.

[Ericmiami]

Thank God it's Bush's last Fourth of July as President. What shame our great country has endured.
eric hussein miami

[CaballoVerde]

Give Dub a break--He only heard about Jefferson & learned who he was a couple of days ago.

[bubba-frisco-dave]

MaCain in 2008---FOUR MORE YEARS!!!!

[Richard McNamara]

God is Great - President Bush believes in God.

[Sam]

War in middle east: " Feed the Rich ; bury the poor". Bush should be impeached by now. He had damaged this country so bad enough. We don't need any more Hero. Our young american don't need to get kill in Iraq. It's Bush's war. This war has drained our economy, our value in international relationship with other nations. Bush has made other nations hate American.

[Cody B]

WoW , What a great impression on the new Americans. I would rather go back to what ever country I came from than to come to the USA. (That is if I where Them) Everyone has good points about the war, and I can see positive things in both sides. I just hope we won't have another Civil War.

People who are so opinionated should see first hand the negative and positive facts. The Media is not a reliable source. They are often one sided, showing only the most extreme. We may have gone over to Iraqi for the Wrong reasons. But now to leave, is screwing over everyone who lost there life for the Iraqis freedom.

[Mike]

A heckler. Another liberal showing how classless and braindead they are. Wipe the foam from your mouth Marxist... Bush is almost out of the Whitehouse. Time for another retard liberal to take over and castrate the US military.

[Dave Tigershark]

It is the younger generation who, for the first time 40 years, is showing any political awareness and has the courage to do something about the decline THEIR nation has experienced over the past 8 years.

Bush is a contemptible clown who deserves to be heckled off of any stage he attempts to take. He has dismantled the Constitution here and disgraced American principles abroad, all for his family's corrupt political connection's financial gain . Future American soldiers captured during war will not be granted the rights given them by the Geneva Convention because of Bush's despicable actions.

These protesters are true American patriots in the truest sense of the word. Bush, that smirking chimp of a man, should hang his head in shame for allowing his handlers to try to equate him with Thomas Jefferson as the country falls further and further into despair as direct result of his leadership.

Bless the patriots who protested him in Monticello on this July 4th!

Here is a quote for you blind, clueless Repugs who think it was inappropriate or criminal for American citizens to protest George W Bush at the place Thomas Jefferson penned the Constitution.

"All tyranny needs to gain a foothold is for people of good conscience to remain silent."

~THOMAS JEFFERSON

[Bob Cat]

What a travesty! So many people screaming about their civil rights without the slightest interest in their civil responsibilities. Protest all you want. But don't do it at the expense of others. That makes you as cupable as those you are protesting against.

And the protest is to call for the impeachment of the sitting President? Now there's a piece of universal wisdom. Let's stop government in its tracks and ignore the needs of our country for the sake of vindictiveness. As a citizen, I want to know what my country gains from that? Nothing but more bitterness and shame. We seem to have enough of that already given many of the responses posted here.

[Chris]

Anyone who says protesters stink is an idiot. The men and women who fought in the Revolutionary War were protesters, you IDIOT!

[Linda]

As for voicing ones opinion at the expense of others. POPPYCOCK! George W. Bush has killed thousands of your sons and daughters. I hardly think that voicing an opinion during one of his incoherent speeches can compare to sending our best and brightest to fight his war over oil and fight a war against an enemy that is undefeatable. Sticking his nose into business that is THOUSANDS of years old, it's been going on for 2 thousand years and it's not going to end because GW wanted to be a war time president.

I say speak up whenever you see the opportunity. To hell with pomp and circumstance. If you look back through history, no one EVER accomplished anything by sitting back on their honches and keeping quiet....... "out of respect." We have become a nation of "Stepford Citizens". We just follow orders in monotone never questioning the morons that are putting us in our graves. Every civilization that ever got full of itself, the way we have, has always fallen. We are on the way down, right now. Not so much because of hatred, but stupidity. Take a look at the current president.

I always said his eyes were too close together. =)

[Shawn]

There is a place and time for freedom of speech and nothing better than during a public speech. Let this be a lesson for the new citizens. Let this be a time to let the new citizens know to think twice before making a person like Mr. Bush be the head of our state for two consecutive terms.

And why is it really a shame to protest at this place and time? after all, the protestors gave a good demonstration of freedom of speech. Shame on you all. I dont blame Bush for anything. He was elected, by you! So before calling anyone ignorant, think about yourself. This man single handedly destroyed our reputation all over the world. Yes no president can make everyone happy but then no president ever destroyed USA this bad either. There are more people killed in Iraq in these few years than all of Saddam's career as a dictator. When I weigh the balance, the head count doesnt convince on the true benefit of our invasion.

And quit calling Arabs terrorists. During Desert Storm we created permanent bases all over middle-east. We made new allies. We secured super amazing deals with Arab countries and not to mention we charged them for the cost of warfare.

Dont call the new generation ignorant. These are the boys and girls who are most informed than most of you will ever be. There is a record number of voters expected to show up in the booths this time.

As far as protests go, I want to end by saying we should have more protests in USA. We are the only country where a president who messed up so bad, actually managed to stay in office for 8 long years. For those who think there is a better place and time for protesting, well Sir, there will never be a better time than now.

Have a wonderful and safe 4th of July.

[kirksfam]

Bush represented the office of the President during many solemn and meaningful ceremonies on which he chose to advance his supremacist agenda at the expense of the truth and American lives. The protesters were neither immature nor ignorant. Respect is something earned. Mr. Bush has not earned it and he does not deserve it.

[barbosa]

Too bad the new citizens did not drop off the ceremony. I hope they will keep their faith and commitment to the great USA as citizens.

[Earl]

Freedom? Freedom died out long ago in our land. Having been blessed to have been able to travel the world extensively I've come to the conclusion that while America offers the freedom to consume and partake in endless, mindless entertainment, it seems to offer very little else. The tax burden here is staggering, mainly targeting the middle class and small business owners. Saving is discouraged and penalized every step of the way. Despite all the obstacles, if you were able to save and invest some money, their is a high likelihood that your money was either stolen or highly mismanaged by those "experts" that you entrusted it to and on and on. Because when all is said and done, more gets said than done. The rich get richer the poor get poorer. Where's Robin Hood when we need him?

[BrianGriffinLovesYou]

It's impossible to say too much new, here, so a few comments--To VLM & to FloridaCounts,: Heil America! That pesky first amendment should be eliminated anyway...To twin mom in cville: it's not all about you & your family, so stop assuming the model holds--in other words, get over yourself & see the world...To Richard: ever hear of the hyperbole police? To Will Jones: "homosexual" is an irrelevant term to your argument, such as it is...and that's not much...To Fred: good luck!...To JR, who's not thinking: what better introduction to true US citizenship than in its full dissenting glory?...To Holly M: good for you!...To Jason: Right On!...To Luther Brixton: love the post except for the God bit...To Chris: learn some English & your opinions'll sound more forceful...& lastly, one word only to the bunch of you who apparently think TJ was some kind of God: Clotel.

[jason]

for anyone upset with the protesters, please go travel and get exposure to more than just the US media. go talk to ordinary citizens, in person from another country, and leave MSNBC, FOX, Rush, AirAmerica all behind. go form your own opinion, you deserve to know more.

[Amos Van Horn]

Thomas Jefferson would have welcomed this - especially in that place on this day - that's what you bush-strokers really have never understood. Patriotism is not about allegiance to individuals and office - it is about allegiance to an ideal; the preservation of which trumps any and all ceremony.

[Ben]

This nation was built as a place where people can come to enjoy freedom. That's what was being celebrated today. The protesters have a point, in that we chose to go inflict our views of freedom on another people, in another place not our own. Bush and his cabinet assumed everyone wants to live like us. But we're not perfect. We should make sure we are before we go setting up shop in other lands. It's not our style to attack, and it never has been. It's been our privelege to be able to aid less fortunate nations when the need arises, and to welcome like-minded people to our shores, but the way in which we've attacked Iraq and inflicted our views and lifestyle upon them is both pompous and inexcusable. I think today was a perfect day for protest. George Bush misused his post, and I agree that that should be brought to his attention.

[Kimberly M]

After 9/11 i changed the focus of my major to focus on philosophy and more importantly political science. i studied constitutional law. i studied US history.

Bush was "elected" through judicial activism. He has garnered much hatred around the world for his pursuit of freedom through military action.

Republicans, in general, astound me. I had a boss who was a Texan Republican and knowing my interests in France (where I know reside), decided to say ignorant things like "if it weren't' for the United States the French would be speaking German." To this comment I responded that my Canadian Grandfather was defending France for much longer holding the frontier. And if it were not for the French, British and other Allies the United States would have had nothing to defend.

On that same day, I received a 60 day warning, indicating that my performance was not up to snuff. Another case of capitalism run-amuck.

Bush's policies have made Americans hated around the world...despite all the good things they do.

But that said, I hope that more Americans realize the importance of understanding their country's place in the world and learn a little more about the problems their government claims to represent. Because when you have the priviledge of being born or naturalizing to the most powerful country in the world....you should educate yourself....unbiasedly...before you cast your vote.

I believe if people were just a little bit more educated....Bush would never have been President.

How many people truly understand that the US supreme court did not have the authority to make him President in the first place?????

[Pittsville]

There is a time and a place to protest Bush. Every time he appears in any place would be appropriate.

Bush seldom if ever appears before anything other than a trained partisan audience, so this was a very rare opportunity for people to have their voices heard.

[DH]

I wonder if the Hippy Scum knows what they are? I mean c'mon guys, look to the left of you, THERE IS NO ONE THERE!

You're it! You're the most left! You are Commie Hippy Scum!

Not that there is anything wrong with that.

[Robert]

Bush is the chosen one.

[Roger B]

Maybe the democratic majority congress can straighten out all these problems that George W. created.
They have made major progress since they first took over....................

GOD BLESS George W. Bush

[True Patriot!]

Where did all you Bush defenders come from? This seems very fishy...A full 70% of Americans disapprove of this President. The truth is plain to see and has been realized by most Americans. You trolls need to go away!

[Kevin Collins]

I just want you people who bash Bush to actually use YOUR head. We have been run by a democratic majority congress since Bush's reelection. You blame Bush for the economy?, hah, the democrats and the liberal media are the ones who talked it down. The market is completely psychological, and they talked it down like it was a great thing. How else would some radical like Obama get elected? If things were great and fine, then people would've voted for a Republican. Use your heads, you have been duped by the liberal media and your lack of education, or sometimes too much education.

And the protesters are a disgrace. It is total disrespect to talk like that to our nations leader, regardless of whether you like him or not. War criminal, hah.. if it wasn't for Bush, Suddam Hussein would still be in power and be a threat to national security. Have we had any terrorist attacks since 9/11? I bet you terrorists are waiting for a democrat to destabalize the military so they can attack us and we become vulnerable.

People are just so stupid.. so so stupid. We need Newt Gingrich back in office, he would fix things up and a democrat would be forced to sign his legislation.

[Urban Quohog]

The upshot of the presence and loudness of the protesters here is that these new citizens get to see them in action.
Now they know, from the protesters' example, that as citizens they are not required to voice approval of whatever heinous crimes their current leader happens to be committing. They have had to do some reading about our constitution, and hopefully they will be able to put 2+2 together and recognize when it is being pissed upon.
These folks have seen firsthand that here, one can despise a bad leader BECAUSE one loves his country- and one probably (for now) will not get shot for doing so.
The people being honored in this ceremony were not being disrespected.
They were being empowered.

[TN205]

I approve of the concept of protesting however, the moment was wrong. This talk was not about Bush and what he does, It was about folks that want to be Americans. This was there day, and no one has the right to destroy that for them. That is just ignorant and rude.

[Ed]

I personally thank the protesters for standing up to the powers that have so badly degraded this nation, and wasted the potential its people.

[David E. Connolly, Jr.]

It doesn't matter whether you agree with the president or not (most sane people do not) it shows a lack of class, and very poor etiquette to repeatedly shout and heckle a speaker in the midst of their remarks. Liberal messengers would do well to not to give their cause associations with a kind of scuzzy, classless delivery.

[Resist Liberalism]

At least Mr. Bush did the right thing by acknowleding the liberal whiner's right to free speech. If it were up to liberals, we would have no free speech, yet they seem to enjoy engaging in it.

[Jim]

Right now, a US dier in Iraq is most likely being injured in an illegal war of choice, initiated by deliberate lies. If he survives, he will return to a country with a broken economy, and severly limited Stem Cell treatment options to repair the damage. All thanks to Bush. Oh, and if he's lucky his home won't have been hit by forclosure.

[Lorna]

Dear Earl,

If America is such a mess, why are you still calling it "our land?" Why are you still here?

One-way international plane flights leave our country every day, Earl. Have a nice trip.

[Sylvan]

I'm not a democrat or republican, I'm progressive to radical. I told my disappointed friend, when Bush won/stole his second term, that he was going to leave office with the lowest approval rating in history and that people will regret having voted for him. Tell me if this is not true now. People that are far right fall into two categories. "Don't Know" and "Don't Care". If they don't know, they don't care to learn, never have and never will. If they don't care they have a straight out, in your face,"I don't give and 'f', narrow minded, racist, sexist, anti-poor, selfish, attitude. Blind as bats and dumber then sheep. I have friends and family members like that and I still love them, but you can rarely sit down with someone like that and have a mutually respectful, calm, emotionally controlled, wise and logical discussion. It seems that that kind of communication is a lost characteristic in this world. By both common people and world leaders.

[Don Mitchell]

What is more fitting for Independence Day than confronting the government that has robbed and defrauded us for eight years at the home of one of the founding fathers who foresaw the need for the citizens to rise up and overthrow the government from time to time.

"Freedom of speech", Mr. Bush, does not involve handcuffs and escorts to the bottom of the hill.

[Tim]

The moment could not be more perfect, show the new citizens what protest is. Seems most of us have forgotten and have become pure sheep.

[Jack Ian Mayer]

I recall that in fifth grade we were admonished: there are strictures to free speech. Most common is yelling fire in a crowded theater another is incite to riot. Subtlety lost on the new age 'i ams' is; while all may think and rarely act upon opinion, it's when the bunch that stand up and prove their ignorance that freedom of speech proves most valuable.

[peter]

George W should take Dick to Camp David for vacation and stay there until January 20th 2009.

[Dan Bain]

What must our forefathers be thinking today?

http://groups.google.com/group/bainwaves/browse_thread/thread/97317cd8ee4ce58c#

[Tom]

Under the horrible circumstance of having G.W.Bush as president it is neccesary to protest him any time any place he shows his face. If the goverment will not hold him accountable for his crimes against humanity and the people of this great nation then we patriots must.

[Brad Nales]

Schmucks!

Why do you always post the vidoe sequence with the hecklers? It reflects YOUR OPINION and not the OPINION of all people. I am not a Bush supporter but I am a supporter of a TIME AND PLACE to heckle. The event was for 70 new citizens not the protestors. Your video clip supports the "acitions" of the wrong group. However, as the 4th unelected branch of goverment, the media has done more then its share to destroy the U.S. over the past 40 years without ever being elected, and "continues to do so with a smug self- feeling your actually helping"! True arrogance.

[sarah]

I think the best thing about what I've read, is the fact that there are so many passionate and differing points of view. Thank God for the opportunity to be able to express ourselves, no matter what side we choose, without punishment. I have traveled extensively, mainly to third world countries, and my eyes have been opened so many times to how lucky I am to have been born here. Our hospitals, streets, sewer sytem, fire-fighters, police officers, educators, businesses, judicial system, etc. are exceptional compared to other places around the world. Those of you that scream hatred of this country need to step outside our beautiful borders and never come back. Stop being such cowards, get an education, and go travel. But while you're out there, traveling "better" countries, just pray that you don't end up in a hospital or, get framed for smuggling and put in a jail for a crime you did not commit. You'll be crying for your momma and for America to come save your ass. Happy travels haters!

[Steve J.]

When will Bush be sent to The Hague for a war crimes trial?

[JM]

Freedom of speech is not preventing someone else from exercising theirs. There are plenty of forums for protest and to make known one's ideas and feelings. The rude actions of these "protesters" would indeed shock and disappoint Mr Jefferson. He is from an age of civility and respect. Whether you personally respect a person or not, you respect the office. I am very sorry for those that have worked hard to achieve citizenship and to be honored by their president's presence to only be interrupted and demeaned by these "protesters". Shame on them.

[Thomas Jones]

I think it is awesome that all of you have a chance to voice your opinions of our great nation, and her president - who was elected, BTW!

I would like to make a request, though. If this nation is so bad, and her president is so despicable, why don't you all just move to whatever country you think is better?! I'm sure they'd love to have you - FOR DINNER!

God is our only hope, and Jesus is the only way to Him. And before you all start, Truth is Truth, whether you wish to believe it or not. I'll be in Heaven, will you?

"Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord." Amen, and Amen!

God Bless President Bush!

[onewhonos]

Civility may not survive. It is apparent that the protestors hate Bush so much that they are blinded to respect for the ceremony.
Poll the protesters as to party affiliation; my bet is that the Democrats are among the majority of the Haters.
This in the end will hurt both parties.
And, independent voters will gain the majority none too soon.

[bill bryant]

We believe in free speech in the USA he says while men in dark suits drag the free speakers out by their shirtcollars in handcuffs.

I can think of no more appropriate place or day or occasion to stand up and protest what he has done to this great nation.

[Jay]

True Patriots have the courage to protest. "The spirit of resistance to government is so valuable on certain occasions that I wish it to be always kept alive" ~Thomas Jefferson.

Bush has brought great shame to this country. Anyone who has read the writings and sayings of Jefferson knows he would consider Bush an abomination to the very ideals and principles this country was founded on. I applaud the protestors. Any and every venue is proper when you are confronting tyranny and oppression.

"When Facism comes to america it will be wrapped in a flag and carrying a cross" . Sinclair Lewis

[john]

I don't agree with the loud interuption,I believe signs would have been appropriate,but at least it was done.If you think people should "sit down and shutup",then you should be ashamed as an American.Though I did find it hilarious when Bush uttered free speech as they were being dragged away.

Regarding my opinion,he messed with the constitution.If we(not all)Americans were not so spineless,we would have tossed the fools out of the whitehouse by now.Instead many will do and believe anything in order to avoid rocking the boat.This whole "your being anti-American and making us look bad" argument is just a lame excuse.What looks bad is letting leaders do what they want.

I can't help but wonder what would be done if a few thousand showed up to remove the president or any other leader.Would they be shot or microwave beamed?

[Colonel A. J. Bowley Jr., USAF (Ret)]

God bless President Bush. He is a great President who is leading the way, spreading freedom and democracy. Ask our Soldiers, Sailors Airmen and Marines and they will tell you....President Bush is a great Commander and Chief. I served 30 years in the military and was proud to serve under a great man like George W. Bush!! He stands for freedom!!!! I was ashamed to serve under Clinton. He stood for nothing but himself and used the White House for chick bait! A pervert who I am sure all you nut jobs loved and are now steaming because you loved Clinton, who WAS impeached, brought up on charges, found guilty, disgraced himself, his family and our country. Bush 2 will be honored throughout history and cry all you like...you will watch him depart with honor and grace. As for your hero...I know you will always remember the stained blue dress and the liberal clown with the red nose you loved so much. PS: OJ did it.
Colonel B

[Sabatu]

"They should lock them up and throw away the keys. As far as I'm concerned, they are outcasts and deserve severe punishment. There is a place for free speech, and this definitely is not the place nor the time for such hatred."

VLM..are you confusing fascism with democracy? Those first two sentences are eerily reminiscent of a dictators rhetoric. I agree that it was not the right time & place, and that whining and screaming to Bush isn't going to accomplish anything, but remember it was 'outcasts' who founded this country. Granted, they didn't just sit around and make picket signs and whine & cry all over the British, they actually wound up doing something constructive, but still, they were outcasts at first. Anyway, good to see this country has a lot of good left in it despite the problems we're facing.. happy fourth of July all.

To Thomas Jones who wrote: think it is awesome that all of you have a chance to voice your opinions of our great nation, and her president - who was elected, BTW!

I would like to make a request, though. If this nation is so bad, and her president is so despicable, why don't you all just move to whatever country you think is better?! I'm sure they'd love to have you - FOR DINNER!

God is our only hope, and Jesus is the only way to Him. And before you all start, Truth is Truth, whether you wish to believe it or not. I'll be in Heaven, will you?

"Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord." Amen, and Amen!

Posted by: Thomas Jones | July 04, 2008 at 05:30 PM

Very childish Thomas, those who protest, protest the man not the country. They protest because they care about being Americans and are in fact patriots for doing so...

[Tom]

America is not perfect, but she sure beats whatever's in second place.

"If you find a better deal --- take it."

[Chris]

Unfortunately civility is not something that works with the Bush administration. George W. Bush does not deserve civility. He deserves all the embarrassment, humiliation and degradation our citizens can hurl at him. A few rotten eggs might be a nice touch as well.

[MTG]

How can anyone use the argument that the "moment was wrong"..."there's a time and a place for protesting", blah blah F'ing blah! I can't think of a better time to flex our 1st amendment rights than on the birthday we received them. If there was a "time and a place" for protesting, if it were some how regulated, then it wouldn't exactly be protesting, would it?

Personally, I think bush should be protested every time he speaks in public. How can anyone still believe in this boob? A man who's opinion and strategy never change, despite the world around him changing rapidly, should never be trusted. People who believe in the IDEA of America, rather than what America actually stands for, voted for Bush. You're all idiots.

@ Kevin Collins: "...a democrat to destabilze the military..."??? Where's your proof?? You're even more of an idiot than the talking heads on Fox who gave you that idea. And I'm willing to bet that we have MORE threats to national security since Sadamm has been taken out of power.

Go suck on the GOP.

What a farce, he should be hanging his head in shame, hes done more damage to this country then any of the terrorists he wants us to fear.

Posted by: Michael | July 04, 2008 at 12:20 PM
--------------------
That's malarkey.

It's no secret how many people feel about our president, but why steal the show today when it wasn't about who was in office? BTW - we are part of a market economy, by definition, it must fluctuate.

I was embarassed by the lack of class from an educated community. Those that brought attention to themselves had nothing positive to offer today to the ceremony. But if you ask them or their supporters, they probably feel patriotic about their actions. It was disrespect for the office, and fueled by hatred. We can rationalize why all day, but the fact remains this was supposed to be a special cermony to honor those that have completed the journey to citizenship. But for some reason there is a fear to miss an opportunity shout hatred for the president. I ask the protestors today, Did you offer anything new tday...or did u place your agenda ahead of the celebration of the naturalization ceremony? This president will pass and a new one will be elected soon, on behalf of Americans that can have an opinion but do so respectfully, I apologize to our newest fellow citizens. Every village has their idiots, ours just chose to introduce themselves to you personally today.

[Mike]

People who are complaining about this country are the one's who DESERVE to stay here, not the other way around.

The complacent are the only true non-Americans, since its those sheep who will follow corrupt politicians and lying administrations, and send this country right down the shi**er.

If you really loved this country, you'd stand up for Her where She's most vulnerable...not from the outside...but from within.

To the Editor: