Last week, Fox News Channel's uber-host Bill O'Reilly (of his eminently popular Factor) declared a preemptive unilateral journalistic disarmament with the incoming Obama Administration on it's humongous spending proposal intended in the Administration's words to "stimulate" the economy.
Speaking with CNSNews.com's Nicholas Ballasy, O'Reilly, who regularly describes himself as a "protector of the regular folks," announced he is going to vacate his duties as said guardian with regard to President-elect Barack Obama's projected $1+ trillion outlay.
That's a great deal of money that will be taken from the "regular folks" for redistribution by Obama, yet O'Reilly says he will not scrutinize the titanic Socialistic effort. In fact, what he's seen so far - he's "fine with." Worse still, he says ANY negative analysis of the plan is "just cheap shotting" Obama.
This is the treatment the vapid vastness that is the Lamestream Media gives Obama; we have come to expect a little more from Fox News. O'Reilly, the station's flagship face, seems to be less than interested in providing the governmental oversight we need from the Channel on which we are counting as the sole source of objective Obama Administration coverage.
His statement in it's entirety is transcribed below the fold.
O'Reilly: "I think Obama has a pretty good vision of what has to happen in the economic range. But I'm not going to second guess the guy, let's just see what they come up with - see what they do. We need to get this economy rolling, a lot of people are suffering, so I'm fine with what he's put out there so far, we'll just have to see. Second guessing the guy is just cheap shotting him.
"Look, if you put money into the economy wisely and with discipline it has to help."
Because we all know that the government is by far the best hope to "put money into the economy wisely and with discipline." Right?
—Seton Motley is Director of Communications for the Media Research Center and Contributing Editor for NewsBusters.org.
Editor at Large
Comments Policy
Well, Billo.....what flavor
January 12, 2009 - 16:58 ET by motherbeltWell, Billo.....what flavor Kool-Aid did you get?
Just Once
January 12, 2009 - 17:01 ET by Lee BoggsQuestioning is not second guessing, Bill.
So, when he couldn't beat 'em, he joined 'em?
January 12, 2009 - 17:20 ET by Chris NormanThen O'Reilly should shut his pie hole about the ideological corruption and abdication of responsibility he criticizes in the mainstream media.
The "Mainstream" Media: By liberals. For liberals.
Once again BOR proving Fox
January 12, 2009 - 17:20 ET by bigtimerOnce again BOR proving Fox is not a right-wing news station...yet the left keeps on insisting it is.
Whether you like Hannity of not...my one big hope with his new show is he becomes Number One...unseats the arrogance BOR shows constantly.
Besides that...Ubermann would have somebody else to make Worst Person in the World nightly, BOR would have to take second place there...and with Olbie, that's iffy.
"America isn't the problem...America is the solution." ~ Rush Limbaugh
BT
January 12, 2009 - 20:57 ET by doug1950Yet again we agree. I haven't watched more than a few minutes of BOR in the last 5 or more years simply because I think he is full of ***t about 90% of the time. I quite watching Hannity several years ago because he only has one song and has become shrill and offkey when he sings it (Plus I just could not stand to look at or listen to his little buddy that looks like Jiminey Cricket...Alan Combs) so my viewing of these guys is scant and limited. I stopped watching BOR because he is inconsistent. Claims to be anti death penalty than once or twice when the crime was particularly heinous he states they ought to fry the perp. He too interrupts people and perhaps the most annoying habit is he would have a guest on who is an experienced, trained expert in a field of endeavor and Big Bill would just flatly disagree with them and that settled it. If anyone is the King of Bloviation it is Bill O"Reilly. He is hardly conservative but he is an ass.
Evening Doug...if Hannity's
January 12, 2009 - 21:54 ET by bigtimerEvening Doug...if Hannity's new show is going to be like it was tonight for the future I won't be watching it.
Lovefest with Newt and Elizabeth...then we had this below...
Anybody catch it?
You may as well had Colmes on with the last segment with Bachmann, Meatloaf and loudmouth Sharpton, it was truly disgusting, unbearable.
I'm really disappointed in some ways...not surprise, just disappointed.
"America isn't the problem...America is the solution." ~ Rush Limbaugh
BT
January 13, 2009 - 00:15 ET by thebutlerdiditThat bad, huh? I don't watch either, I will watch a clip or two if the guest is someone I like. I suspected Sean's show would be this way when I heard he was having a "mixed view" panel. I prefer Glenn. He is a little nutty, but he is not one to change his views to suit his guests. I like Greta, she is fair, and never shrill. I have one thing about her I don't like, but she keeps it to herself. She doesn't talk about her personal life, so I try not to hold it against her. The only part of BOR I like is Dennis Miller. I'd much rather see him. Billo looks like an idiot when he talks over people like Megan Kelly, who is leaps and bounds smarter than he.
Bringing the government in to run Wall Street is like saying, "Dad burned the dinner, let's get the dog to cook." PJ O'Rourke
O'Reilly is Obamas mouth piece
January 12, 2009 - 17:23 ET by cayenne523O'Reilly has not been the same since his interview with Obama. As I remember he and Obama's people got together before the interview. I wonder what Obama has on O"Reilly? Possibly some info on what happened a few years back with the phone calls to that woman friend of his? Maybe there is another woman friend? O"Reilly sure seems to defend Obama alot. He now thinks Obama maybe being picked on? If he keeps it up let's hope his rating drop and he goes away. O'Reilly sure isn't helping the conservative movement by running blocks for Obama.
Oh please, cayenne... Did
January 12, 2009 - 17:30 ET by JerOh please, cayenne...
Did you actually see the Obama and McCain interviews by BOR? He was a complete marshmallow with McCain...much, much tougher on Obama.
Jer
Excuse Me?
January 12, 2009 - 21:30 ET by cayenne523The questions he asked were never followed up and Obama never gave full answers. How about all the laughing and smiling? The show was in segments to get people to keep coming back to see if it would get juicy. O'Reilly is all about O'Reilly. I would love to see Malkin or Coulter interview Obama. Now that would be an interview.
O'Reilly would deny that
January 12, 2009 - 17:31 ET by Chris NormanO'Reilly would deny that he's a conservative and he's not. He's a populist who takes every opportunity to proclaim his "independence". Contrary to conservatism, O"Reilly's answer to so many problems is "there ought to be a law"...
The "Mainstream" Media: By liberals. For liberals.
Right, Chris...the O'Reilly
January 12, 2009 - 17:49 ET by JerRight, Chris...the O'Reilly who rails against leftist loons and liberal judges, who has continually pronounced the ACLU the "most dangerous organization in America, and George Soros the "most dangerous man in America"...the O'Reilly who promised never to endorse a political candidate and then proceeded to endorse nobody but Republicans...the O'Reilly who said Obama's ecomomic policies would be a disaster, and that his foreign policy would invite terrorism and the deaths of Americans. BOR's a conservative without question, but he does have a populist streak [such as when he was critical of the oil companies].
Jer
Jer, That was epic, but
January 12, 2009 - 17:55 ET by Chris NormanJer,
That was epic, but you're still wrong.
The "Mainstream" Media: By liberals. For liberals.
Well, Chris, I guess that
January 12, 2009 - 18:00 ET by JerWell, Chris, I guess that settles it. You must be right.
Jer
Finally, you're
January 12, 2009 - 18:07 ET by Chris NormanFinally, you're correct.
The "Mainstream" Media: By liberals. For liberals.
Yes! I'll have to check
January 12, 2009 - 18:13 ET by JerYes! I'll have to check with Clear Thinker and see if I can add that to the .01% of the time he says I'm right. Probably not.
Jer
That much, huh? :)I
January 12, 2009 - 19:25 ET by Chris NormanThat much, huh? :)
I just reject your litany of O'Reilly's liberal "bashing" automatically leads to the conclusion that he's conservative.
The "Mainstream" Media: By liberals. For liberals.
Jer
January 13, 2009 - 00:48 ET by well99BOR isnt a conservative.Sorry you are wrong.BOR is about BOR.I rarely watch because of his need to talk over people even if they are on topic.Well with the exception of when he hammer Barney Franks.Then I was rooting for BOR.
well99... He may not be a
January 13, 2009 - 01:00 ET by Jerwell99...
He may not be a conservative, but he sure as heck plays one at Fox. His claims of 'neutrality' are a laughable fraud.
But I agree with you that BOR is mostly about BOR, and, as I said earlier, he will sometimes moderate and tailor his views in other forums.
Jer
A fraud if he isn't
January 13, 2009 - 01:07 ET by bigtimerA fraud if he isn't claiming to be a conservative as the majority of the leftists have called him for years, no matter how many times and examples some of us conservatives have told you he isn't...yet you still are trying to insist on this Jer...he states he is a Populist/Independent whatever he says, he does not say he is a conservative, and he isn't, anymore than Fox is.
Give it a rest for heavens sake.
"America isn't the problem...America is the solution." ~ Rush Limbaugh
bt...
January 13, 2009 - 01:16 ET by JerThanks, but I'll give it a rest when I'm ready to give it a rest. Give me some examples why you believe he's not a conservative. Or do you just believe whatever BOR says about his politics?
Jer
Give me a break Jer...you
January 13, 2009 - 01:20 ET by bigtimerGive me a break Jer...you have read enough of mine and other posters about this subject for year(s) now...
Not wasting my time on BOR with you.
I'm giving it a rest with you on this silly obvious subject.
"America isn't the problem...America is the solution." ~ Rush Limbaugh
bt...
January 13, 2009 - 01:32 ET by JerNot wasting my time on BOR with you.
A superb idea. I doubt seriously that you have spent 1% of the time I have watching O'Reilly. I think you just hear somebody's erroneous opinion that he was too hard on a Republican or too soft on a Democrat and assume he's neutral. He's not...not even close.
Jer
Jer... You saying "I
January 13, 2009 - 01:42 ET by bigtimerJer...
You saying "I think" to what I watch or have seen when I state something as a fact is your problem.
Glad you are part of the party in this country that has helped BOR to remain Number One...Keith isn't too happy though.
"America isn't the problem...America is the solution." ~ Rush Limbaugh
bt...
January 13, 2009 - 02:04 ET by JerI neither watch Keith, nor like him. So I really don't care what his ratings are. And even if BOR tripled his current audience, it would have no bearing on my opinion of the man.
Jer
Whatever
January 13, 2009 - 02:07 ET by bigtimerWhatever Jer...
Nighty-night.
"America isn't the problem...America is the solution." ~ Rush Limbaugh
bt...
January 13, 2009 - 02:12 ET by JerSleep tight...don't let the bed bugs bite.
Jer
Jer
January 13, 2009 - 14:57 ET by well99Sorry your wrong.I am a independant.A real one.BOR isnt that or Conservative.BOR is a self promoting what can I get out of it guy.That is fine and his right but he aint looking out for the folks he is looking out for number 1.I do like what he has done to push Jessica's Law and these lame Judges that let pedophiles off with a slap on the hand.Also when he slapped down Barney Franks it made my day.Most of the time I dont bother to watch him anymore.
Wrong about what, well99?
January 13, 2009 - 15:38 ET by JerWrong about what, well99? True, BOR is a flagrant self-promoter. It's one of the reasons I don't like him. There are also positions that he takes with which I agree, even though they might be considered generally conservative or right-leaning.
But his persistent representation that he is a non-partisan independent with no ideological predispositon and doesn't support candidates of either party is simply a flat-out lie. His views may run the gamut from center-right to far-right, but there isn't a molecule of liberalism in his entire body--despite his protestations to the contrary [such as his ludicrously flimsy claims that his stances on global warming, the death penalty, and the environment are examples of his "leftish" views.] As I've previously noted, I've been watching the Factor pretty regularly for ten years and those assertions are absolute hogwash.
Now, I'm sure there is a degree of chameleon-like behavior on O'Reilly's part. He realizes his Fox audience overwhelmingly tilts toward the right, and he molds his Factor persona with that in mind. Consequently, he is and always has been essentially a Republican mouthpiece, interested in ratings and hyping his latest book.
Jer
Jer
January 13, 2009 - 21:55 ET by well99"He may not be a conservative, but he sure as heck plays one at Fox."
Jer then he is a lousy actor.The only one I think is more self absorbed then him is Olbermann.KOed is totally useless though.He has no redeeming qualities.Then again I have never been a fan of lap dogs.
Jer, I find O'Reilly to
January 12, 2009 - 18:26 ET by fitzfongJer,
I find O'Reilly to be shallow and totally unwatchable. When looking at the "big picture", he leans conservative. But when the issues are complex, like economics, he reverts to this pseudo-populist "everyman's" advocate...completely skipping over the complexities of a particular issue so he can make himself look good by bashing some "pinhead". He doesn't have a stake in the success or failure of a particular enterprise, so he feels free to use the opportunity to bolster his "street cred" by singling out CEOs for withering criticism. He gets as self-righteous when wagging his finger at the Lee Raymonds of the world as he does when going after some lightweight judge. O'Reilly is all about O'Reilly.
"Government's view of the economy could be summed up in a few short phrases: If it moves, tax it. If it keeps moving, regulate it. And if it stops moving, subsidize it." -Ronald Reagan
fitzfong.blogspot.com
fitz,I base my opinion
January 12, 2009 - 18:55 ET by Chris Normanfitz,
I base my opinion of O'Reilly's non-conservativism by his knee jerk prescription to every ill of society as "the government ought to...". If you add them all up, he thinks the federal government should have it's hand in just about everything. Every time he says "he's looking out for the folks" - I cringe - reminds me too much of die volk or something...
The "Mainstream" Media: By liberals. For liberals.
Fitz, you are right on the
January 12, 2009 - 18:59 ET by JasonCFitz, you are right on the mark. O'Reilly's asset is his ability to come off as likeable when he so chooses. The legions of fans that he apparently has (and he certainly is fond of reminding us that they number in the millions) seem to turn a blind eye to his obvious anger-management issues and mild messiah complex. But as you point out, the fundamental problem is that for all of his bluster about being a "traditionalist," whatever that is, and "Doing it for the folks" (how original!), when it comes down to it, he has no solid principles or ideology. Traditionalism, naturally, tends to the right, and so he is generally misrecognized as right-wing. Yet, his moral relativism seem far more aligned with the sort of "situational ethics" for which liberals are routinely castigated. As a person who is very skeptical about the idea of an Absolute Good (especially in the realm of geo-politics), I suppose I should appreciate this about BOR; unfortunately, he veils that particular trait with a cranky, aw-shucks cantankerousness that makes him seem less like a thoughtful postmodernist and more like a cheap showman whose moral convictions are sketchier than almost any of his contemporaries. Say what you will about Coulter and Hannity and Limbaugh (and I have plenty to say about them), at least they don't bend their point of view to every perceptible shift in public opinion.
I doubt I would agree very often with you, Jason...
January 12, 2009 - 23:40 ET by Mike Bratton...but in the case of O'Reilly, I do.
I've never understood the fascination with the former "Inside Edition" tabloid-monger. He has remarkably disgusting character issues, and flutters like a weathervane in the political winds.
He's supposed to be a "commentator," but from what perspective? Bill can hardly speak as a moral or ethical authority, and when he had the opportunity to actually ask tough questions of someone like Barack Obama, he balks. Repeatedly.
His "Talking Points" aren't worth talking about, his political perspective is nebulous, and his moral compass was apparently demagnetized some time back. There's no substance with Bill, though I really wish there were. He has a marvelous platform, but isn't equipped to make use of it.
And Bill, if you're reading the thread, have me on your show. I'd be happy to talk with you in person about these concerns of mine--I've had them about you for quite a long time. Unlike you, I don't back down when talking in person with someone I've criticized at a distance.
--Mike
www.thebrattonreport...
MikeB... I hope he or
January 12, 2009 - 23:46 ET by bigtimerMikeB...
I hope he or his staff read your post....nothing could be more delicious than to see you on his show...if you are lucky enough to get a word in edge-wise.
"America isn't the problem...America is the solution." ~ Rush Limbaugh
Why, thanks, BT.
January 13, 2009 - 00:08 ET by Mike BrattonIt would have to be in-studio, though. It's too easy for Bill to "take his ball and go home" by pulling the plug on a remote feed.
And in all seriousness, I just remembered that I know a producer at FOX News... Hmm...
--Mike
www.thebrattonreport...
Well now Mike...if you
January 13, 2009 - 00:12 ET by bigtimerWell now Mike...if you happen to know someone with a possible way in...I say ...GO FOR IT!
Please.
I'm serious.
"America isn't the problem...America is the solution." ~ Rush Limbaugh
Just sent him a message on his Facebook account.
January 13, 2009 - 00:17 ET by Mike BrattonWe'll see what happens. You never know.
--Mike
www.thebrattonreport...
Hey, hey, hey Mike...my
January 13, 2009 - 00:32 ET by bigtimerHey, hey, hey Mike...my fingers are crossed!
I really am serious too...let us know the latest...or me anyway...pretty please. ;-)
How great would this be?!
"America isn't the problem...America is the solution." ~ Rush Limbaugh
Bratton vs. O'Reilly
January 13, 2009 - 00:35 ET by JerMike...
Forget it. It's pointless. I've been watching the guy pretty regularly for about ten years now [although I've been weaning myself away from the "Factor" in recent months].
You may be--and probably are--brighter, more knowledgeable, a better debater, etc.. but, none of that matters one whit. This arrogant, blustering narcissist controls--absolutely--the interview/"debate". He determines the format, the ground rules, the time allotment, the opportunity for response and rebuttal...if he thinks his guest/adversary is too formidable, or too contentious, he will interrupt, shout down, shut off the mike, or simply terminate the session. He will always, always control the outcome. [However, if he thinks it was good theater or a ratings boost, you may be invited back.]
Jer
Now, now Jer...you don't
January 13, 2009 - 00:38 ET by bigtimerNow, now Jer...you don't know how Mike would handle an interview with BOR.
You may be pleasantly surprised...as Bill may very well be too.
"America isn't the problem...America is the solution." ~ Rush Limbaugh
bt... That's exactly my
January 13, 2009 - 00:50 ET by Jerbt...
That's exactly my point: Mike would never have an opportunity to "handle" the interview. O'Reilly does all the "handling".
Jer
Jer... I very well
January 13, 2009 - 00:57 ET by bigtimerJer...
I very well understood yours....
You are missing mine.
I'm leaving it at that.
"America isn't the problem...America is the solution." ~ Rush Limbaugh
Hey, it would assuredly be an "away game."
January 13, 2009 - 01:51 ET by Mike BrattonThat would be the fun of it.
Now, I don't have the distinction of Bill's long list of glamorous interviews, but I've interviewed enough people over the decades to have the necessary moves to make it interesting.
Thing of it is, though, the threshold for success isn't at all difficult to reach. Even for me.
And with everyone here helping me prep? Hey...
--Mike
www.thebrattonreport...
Mike... Hey Indeed!!! I
January 13, 2009 - 02:02 ET by bigtimerMike...
Hey Indeed!!!
I have the feeling you don't need us helping prep you either...although I understand where you're going with that...you just never know, any good ol' idea never hurts.
I'm the glass half full kind of gal, Jer's the half empty.
Go for it! ;-)
"America isn't the problem...America is the solution." ~ Rush Limbaugh
Hi cay... BOR has never
January 12, 2009 - 17:34 ET by bigtimerHi cay...
BOR has never been what I would call a conservative, he is more of a Populist as he likes to call himself (same as Dobbs)...he is against the oil companies, believe in global warming, CAFE standards, blah blah blah...plus if memory serves me his wife is on some green BS Company, can't remember now, matters not, heck I remember how embarrassed I was him all but begging O to be on his show in different ways here and there nightly.
anybody remember how he went after Jesse Jackson, his taxes ect,...he finally gets him on the air after a year or more and all but fell in his lap...it was disgusting.
Nah, he's never been a conservative in my opinion, heck, I've been watching him for so long now it isn't funny...and it just depends what the subject it if I can watch him as it is from time to time.
"America isn't the problem...America is the solution." ~ Rush Limbaugh
And I've been not watching
January 12, 2009 - 17:46 ET by motherbeltAnd I've been not watching him for so long it's not funny. I can't even remember any more when and why I quit.
He's just like all the others.....access rules.
Watching BOR is not about watching BOR.
January 12, 2009 - 19:35 ET by JWFIt is about listening to his guests. He does get some good minds on occasionally. The rest of the show - that is why the good lord made zippy buttons on the eighth day, after he had a good rest and thought about things.
Sincerely,
a Veteran of a 1000 psychic wars.
JWF, That's my big beef
January 12, 2009 - 19:40 ET by Chris NormanJWF,
That's my big beef with O'Reilly - he doesn't let us listen to his guests. In between cutting them off, finishing their sentences, or flippantly dismissing their point - no metter how good - he makes them sit there, helplessly listening to what he thinks. I like "The Factor" - I just wish it wasn't "with Bill O'Reilly".
The "Mainstream" Media: By liberals. For liberals.
Par for the course...
January 12, 2009 - 17:38 ET by Dan DiegoBlowhard always goes soft after he gets his interview w/ high-profile pols. "They were brave enough to come on my show, blah, blah."
Dan
January 13, 2009 - 00:32 ET by thebutlerdiditYes, that's it! He says that crap about being brave to come on his show, as if he is such a big tough dog. And the funny part is Megyn Kelly eats his lunch every time she is on. Amanda Carpenter takes him on pretty well, also.
Bringing the government in to run Wall Street is like saying, "Dad burned the dinner, let's get the dog to cook." PJ O'Rourke
O'Reilly is Obamas mouth piece
January 13, 2009 - 02:29 ET by DoktorFrankenThat's because Bill O got a personal visit from Hussein's ''Uncle Guido, The Enforcer'' from da Nord Side-a town.
O'Reilly jumped the shark some time ago. He should retire. It's just like if Pete Rose were still playing baseball.
Funny, though, that the Left has yet to admit to themselves that Bill O does not speak for the American Conservative. They still use him as an example of how crazy we are. As if we needed his help. ;-)
Nonsense, Doktor
January 13, 2009 - 02:42 ET by JerNonsense, Doktor. O'Reilly has a Republican megaphone firmly affixed to his large, annoying mouth.
He may not speak for the American conservative, or your definition of the American conservative, but he is a thoroughly Republican shill and is certainly not politically neutral, nor a centrist, nor an independent--at least not in his capacity as host of the Factor.
Jer
Nonsense?
January 13, 2009 - 03:06 ET by DoktorFrankenI said Conservative, not Republican, for a reason. And you agreed with that. A Bill-O Republican is not Conservative. That's why I stopped watching him.
So, where's the Nonsense? Or was that a bit of hyperbole on your part?
Doktor... I'm not
January 13, 2009 - 03:21 ET by JerDoktor...
I'm not impugning your motives, your politics, or your integrity. I'm not sure how you define conservatism, or who you believe makes the cut and who doesn't, or how you make that determination.
But the declaration--the title of your earlier post--that O'Reilly is Obama's mouthpiece is, in my opinion, patently absurd.
I have to call it a night, but maybe sometime we can provide each other reasons for our respective opinions.
Later, Jer
Ah
January 13, 2009 - 03:50 ET by DoktorFrankenYou didn't go far up enough on the thread. I was responding to:
O'Reilly is Obamas mouth piece (Subject)
January 12, 2009 - 17:23 ET by cayenne523
Sometimes, with long, nesting threads I copy the Subject I'm responding to so as to 'link it back', as it were.
My original response was a kind of a humorous attempt (note the authentic Chicago vernacular and reference to a non-existent ''Uncle Guido the Enforcer''). Besides, I refer to Him as Hussein, not Obama.
It turned out to be a complete waste of my time.
Thanks for the clarification, Doktor...
January 13, 2009 - 14:42 ET by JerThanks for the clarification, Doktor...and I, in particular, should have realized that because I had originally responded to cayenne.
It was a little too late at night, and I was a little too tired. I apologize.
Jer
Economically Illiterate O'Reilly Strikes Again
January 12, 2009 - 17:35 ET by PopularTechI am not surprised O'Reilly is a Keynesian, all control freaks are. To them it is "obvious" that government can do something to fix the economy. With just the right beaurocrats micro-managing the economy they can fix anything! I mean central planning worked well for the Soviet Union. This is why economically illiterate populists are dangerous, they always accept socialism when the times get tough. The reality is government needs to reduce spending, regulation and taxes. Capitalism and the free market are the only cures for a recession.
Arrogant Conceit: Obama Thinks He Can Reform The Economy (John Stossel, ABC News)
The Fallacy That Government Creates Jobs (Daniel J. Mitchell, Ph.D. Economics)
There's No Pain-Free Cure for Recession (Peter Schiff, The Wall Street Journal)
Carbon Dioxide (CO2) is Not Pollution
Couldn't have said it
January 12, 2009 - 18:09 ET by fitzfongCouldn't have said it better myself, PopTech. O'Reilly's lazy "standing up for every man" populism is tiresome. O'Reilly has always taken intellectual shortcuts like this because he doesn't know how to properly articulate free market economics. Instead, he bashes "greedy" CEOs, trumpets "Wall Street vs. Main Street" class envy and screams about the little guy. His shouting match with Barney Frank was totally unimpressive, as that's like shooting fish in a barrel.
"Government's view of the economy could be summed up in a few short phrases: If it moves, tax it. If it keeps moving, regulate it. And if it stops moving, subsidize it." -Ronald Reagan
fitzfong.blogspot.com
Fitz...like others here, I
January 12, 2009 - 19:04 ET by celatorFitz...like others here, I just about never watch O'Reilly, certainly not for a whole show. I twigged on years ago that his weird show was basically a phony act designed to get high ratings for Fox (which he certainly has done). Seems to be a pretty shallow dude with a massive, giant, ginormous, irritating ego. Not very astute, as far as I can see.
For liberal Democrats and the Old Media, everything is crisis, chaos, calamity and catastrophe. That justifies stealing your property and liberties.
Fitz
January 13, 2009 - 15:51 ET by doug1950You should probably avoid referencing or using the words Barney Frank and "barrel" in the same sentence. For that matter in the same thought.
I've noticed a clear
January 12, 2009 - 17:36 ET by JerI've noticed a clear tendency of O'Reilly to temper his liberal bashing when he is in a venue other than behind his desk on the Factor.
Jer
After his Obama interview
January 12, 2009 - 17:54 ET by katiejaneBOR developed a little case of Obama-love, not a full fledged "tingle up his leg" but a definite man-crush. O'Reilly will second guess anyone he thinks isn't "looking out for the folks" but he seems okay with throwing big bucks at every problem. He doesn't exactly identify WHERE all that money is going to come from other than "the folks."
what bothers me about the way he interviews sometimes...
January 12, 2009 - 17:58 ET by Jnoble..is when he has someone on the ropes or just clearly wrong on an issue and instead of going for the rhetorical knockout, he backs off and says something wimpy to wrap up the interview like "well, we just see things differently. That's your opinion and you're entitled to it. Next on the factor...."
I think he's so afraid of being called a conservative he lets too much crap slide just to look impartial.
His political philosophy,
January 12, 2009 - 18:05 ET by Chris NormanHis political philosophy, besides Populism, seems to be Contrarianism...
The "Mainstream" Media: By liberals. For liberals.
You've got him pegged Seton
January 12, 2009 - 18:13 ET by CaringwhiteguyThis "looking out for the 'folks'" drivel that comes from O'Reilly is really condescending to the "folks".
Perhaps BOR is a much of a populist that the Harvard Public Policy School will allow to graduate. He really is economically ignorant (although I haven't heard him ripping the price gouging and price fixing going on in the energy markets lately).
BOR really does the same schtick as Olbermann, only phony populist. And I actually think BOR enjoys hearing himself talk more that Olby. The two of them could fight it out each year for the Howard Beale Award in Broadcasting.
there are some things about BOR that annoy me...
January 12, 2009 - 18:28 ET by Jnoble...but he's far more honest and does a way better show than a hack like Olbermann. He's not afraid to poke fun at himself, laugh, and have people on every night who totally disagree with him on a variety of issues.
Can you say that for most prime-time MSM news programs?
If nothing else, can you imagine any MSM even daring to ask a tough question to Jesse Jackson, Al Sharpton, or The Messiah?
I'll give you the last word.
January 12, 2009 - 18:32 ET by Caringwhiteguynext on NewsBusters . . . .
O'Reilly spreads economic ignorance
January 12, 2009 - 19:27 ET by PopularTechHis stupid price gouging propaganda is sure to lead to more worthless anti-price gouging laws that do nothing but cause shortages. The problem is too many people listen to him without having any education in free market economics and thus irrationally believe O'Reilly supports the "conservative" position on economic issues.
Myth: Price Gouging Is Bad (Video) (5min)
In Defense of Price Gougers (John R. Lott, Ph.D. Economics)
Carbon Dioxide (CO2) is Not Pollution
Amen, PT
January 13, 2009 - 00:39 ET by thebutlerdiditThis is yet another thing we agree on. Price gouging? BS! It is called supply and demand. If you want it badly enough, you will pay for it. If not, someone else will. If everyone refuses to pay that price, the price will drop, or the product won't be sold/made anymore. I don't know why this is so hard to understand. Good video clip, PT.
Bringing the government in to run Wall Street is like saying, "Dad burned the dinner, let's get the dog to cook." PJ O'Rourke
PT.... That it is, plus
January 13, 2009 - 00:46 ET by bigtimerPT....
That it is, plus it is way past tiring, he always has to get the last word in about this, even when no one is talking to him about this in a segment, he did it again tonight...he has kept this up for months and months now.
Them man can never admit he is wrong.
I am tired of it, and him.
"America isn't the problem...America is the solution." ~ Rush Limbaugh
Protector of the regular folks
January 12, 2009 - 19:09 ET by 1611LilacLadyGive me a break! O'Reilly is just another pretender on FNC. He completely lost me when he sided with Rosie 'the obnoxious' O'Donnell about lesbians adopting children.
O'Reilly is one of the very least people us regular folks need. Sounds like he's buckling under Roger Ailes memo to those good faux folks at FNC to go light on Hussein.
The only good thing O'Reilly has done is show is true colours and along with the likes of RINO lover Hannity and others is prove that FNC is a faux Conservative cable news network.
Isaiah 5:20a Woe unto them who call evil good, and good evil. . . KJV
Bill O'Reilly
January 12, 2009 - 19:11 ET by Worriedis a member of the Old Media. When he interviewed Obama it was like 2 old pals getting together. Later on he would brag about how tough he was on The One. What a laugh.
BOR isn't going to give a negative analysis of BHO's spending cause it's a cheap shot? Doesn't surprise me. Well, I've just begun my cheap shooting of everything BHO does.
Worse still, he (O'Reilly)
January 12, 2009 - 19:22 ET by Jack BauerSo now, according to Bill, even a TRILLION dollars is "cheap."
Good grief how many trillions will it take for the government to TAKE from the tax payer, to get O'Reilly interested?
A trillion seems to be
January 12, 2009 - 19:39 ET by bigtimerA trillion seems to be nothing to throw around anymore Jack...congress-critters have that word just flow from their lips with ease.
Scary to real people out here...since it matters to some of us tax-payers, who see the forest for the trees.
"America isn't the problem...America is the solution." ~ Rush Limbaugh
bt -- at this rate Obama is
January 13, 2009 - 05:10 ET by Jack Bauerbt -- at this rate Obama is going to deforest the entire continental United States to print all those trillions of dollars.
What's the next -illion up from a trillion?
Two guys that need shows on Fox
January 12, 2009 - 19:53 ET by Cajun_MikeMark Levin and Bernie Goldberg both need shows on Fox. Give them each one hour a week to talk about whatever they want.
O'Reilly is a populist. He's in the same realm as Lindsey Graham and McCain.
Bobby Jindal in 2012!
CajunM... I could not
January 12, 2009 - 20:04 ET by bigtimerCajunM...
I could not agree more!
Talk about ratings going through the roof...they would too!
I just got done listening to Levin, he was saying he is probably going to go on Hannity's show....well, I will be watching that night...for sure!
"America isn't the problem...America is the solution." ~ Rush Limbaugh
Mark Levin
January 13, 2009 - 02:26 ET by Cajun_MikeBigTimer, The first time I ever heard Mark Levin talk was on a Hannity and Colmes show many years ago and I was like, "who is that guy". He not only made me laugh but he can get to the crux of the matter lickity split. He is like daggers to the liberal heart.
Bernie Goldberg has been my favorite guest on O'Reilly's show for years. He's not only extremely smart but liberals dont know what hit them when he eloquently weaves his web that they always get caught in.
I just got his new book from Amazon "A Slobbering Love Affair: The True (And Pathetic) Story of the Torrid Romance Between Barack Obama and the Mainstream Media". They shipped it even though the supposed release date is not until the end of the month.
From what I've read so far, I highly recommend it.
Anyways, down here in South Louisiana we have Limbaugh, Hannity and some local talent. I like Rush but I'm not an avid listener. I tune in when something has taken place nationally that I want his take on. Hannity, I can regurgitate what he is going to say because he says the same things over and over. It gets old. I think Mark Levin and Laura Ingraham are the smartest conservatives on radio or TV...
BOBBY JINDAL IN 2012
Oh, Fer Cryin' Out Loud
January 12, 2009 - 20:21 ET by BondPlainBondO'Reilly is hoping he has the next four years in a lock for some "exclusive" Obama interviews.
Those interviews will never happen, though, Obama has won the election and has no further need of O'Reilly. Ever.
O'Reilly did succumb to Obamamania, slightly, as it became more and more apparent Barry would get the Dem nod, O'Reilly's Obama-language softening as the election cycle worn on and on and on.
After watching Obama touch O'Reilly during that interview session (on the knee, several times), and O'Reilly having absolutely no reaction whatsoever? Nope. O'Reilly went quasi-into-the-Obama-tank, the Obama interview is a big reason why I stopped watching his program.
Good luck with your ego, Bill!
Bond... Your post hit the
January 12, 2009 - 20:29 ET by bigtimerBond...
Your post hit the nail squarely on the head.
What a great way to sum up the plans BOR has regarding O.
Disgusting to me...then again, it was all disgusting watch him all but beg for him to come on his show for months, the interview was barf-bag time...so will the rest be as far as I am concerned, if he even gets them in the future.
Pathetic...all of it.
"America isn't the problem...America is the solution." ~ Rush Limbaugh
bt...
January 12, 2009 - 21:26 ET by Jerbt...
That's got to hurt. You and Bond completely missed the nail and hammered your thumbs. [Well, maybe you were referring to a fingernail.]
I actually think I may still have the Obama and McCain interviews on my DVR. O'Reilly's fawning and drooling all over McCain compared to his bombastic, jumping-out-of-his seat, confrontational questioning of Obama was an embarrassment to journalism.
Jer
Jer... We were
January 12, 2009 - 22:58 ET by bigtimerJer...
We were correct.
You aren't ....deal with it.
Btw...I saw the boring interviews with the pathetic McC....so what is your point about what we were talking about in the first place...
Nevermind...I know you well.
"America isn't the problem...America is the solution." ~ Rush Limbaugh
bt... I tried to deal
January 12, 2009 - 23:10 ET by Jerbt...
I tried to deal with it, but I just couldn't. [Okay, I didn't try all that hard.] You and Bond were just so hopelessly, tragically wrong, I had to intercede for the good of you both.
Jer
LMAO...at least you are
January 12, 2009 - 23:16 ET by bigtimerLMAO...at least you are doing you usual schtick.
"America isn't the problem...America is the solution." ~ Rush Limbaugh
bt...
January 12, 2009 - 23:41 ET by Jer;-)
[That doesn't count as the last word. Sh*t, I guess these words do count. Post something and I promise not to respond]
"America isn't the
January 12, 2009 - 23:48 ET by bigtimer"America isn't the problem...America is the solution." ~ Rush Limbaugh
O'Reilly is a arrogant blowhard
January 12, 2009 - 22:44 ET by jefflebowskiI stopped watching him years ago. He constantly interrupts his guests with his own opinions and judgments. As if he knows more than everyone else. He says "I" more per sentence than any other being on earth. He is a tremendous bore.
Angry White Dude
http://angrywhitedud...
Not sure I trust Bill
January 12, 2009 - 23:49 ET by Lord ErondHe makes sense from time to time but he has this ridiculous idea that you will beat a leftie with ideas when the truth is, the only way you can beat a leftie is with a tire iron.
"What you can not enforce, do not command" -Sophocles-
Uh, Bill...Dear Leader is
January 13, 2009 - 00:25 ET by RR GOPUh, Bill...Dear Leader is NOT going to invite you over for tea in the White House, so give it up.
Remember folks, Bill's an independent...that means he doesn't have to associate with real Conservatives. Might be bad for ratings, book sales or something.
One of the 24% who thinks George W. Bush was a great President. One of the 89% who wants to bring back the stock and pillory.
Screw Blowhard O'Reilly
January 13, 2009 - 01:48 ET by R D HelmI haven't watched the clown in years.
-Dave
“Them that’s going get on the wagon. Them that ain’t get out of the way.” -While there is still time.
Ever since Oreilly's Obama interview
January 13, 2009 - 02:11 ET by NObama08Ever since that Oreilly/Obama interview in September, Oreilly has grown a sort of soft spot for B. Hussein Obama.
http://www.fireandre...
Yeah, some soft spot. Is
January 13, 2009 - 02:22 ET by JerYeah, some soft spot. Is that why O'Reilly and Morris were giving advice virtually every night to the McCain campaign how they could still win the election...why he suggested the tanking of the stock market might be its anticipation of an Obama victory...why he claimed the terrorists were hoping for a Democratic victory...why he excoriated Obama on his tax and "share the wealth" policies. There was much more, but you're right, BOR was just wild about Obama.
Jer
LMAO - Picture of O'Reilly
January 13, 2009 - 09:29 ET by PopularTechEverytime I look at the small picture at the top of NBs of Bill looking like he is going to cry, it cracks me up. Poor Bill did Cavuto school you again?
Neil Cavuto Schools Bill O'Reilly on Economics (Video) (7min)
Carbon Dioxide (CO2) is Not Pollution
BO
January 13, 2009 - 19:12 ET by slickwillie2001Bill O'Reilly can't be labeled a conservative or a liberal because to do so requires some consistency of views in the target. His massive ego so overwhelms his two-digit IQ that all he can be labeled is an idiot.
But I do watch him regularly, because his stupidity is weirdly entertaining and the guests are good. On the economy, global warming, and anything to do with science, he makes zero sense. He is for the fight against 'A-driven 'global warming'' because he thinks 'all pollution is bad'. His foaming-at-the-mouth rages against corporate profits and executive pay (except his own) and 'price gouging' are legendary. He is a testament to the fact that hard work can lead to success, regardless of what's in the toolbox.
Maybe so, Slick...
January 13, 2009 - 20:12 ET by JerMaybe so, Slick...but I find it curious that Bill "Mr. Non-Partisan Independent" O'Reilly only endorses Republican candidates.
Any ideas?
Jer