Obama turns down chance to criticize Bush (Iraq, Israel, president)

[normie]

Here's an interesting reflection from clients in Paris, who are watching the news conference from an internet cafe:

Of all the things that impressed the French about Obama's press conference today, this moment stands out. When a reporter asked how Obama would govern differently than President Bush, he turned down the chance to criticize Bush, saying, "I’m not the president. I’m a United States senator. I am a candidate for president."

Obama added that in a "wonderful tradition" one does not criticize a sitting president while visiting overseas.

It was a classy moment, and the statement was made with dignity--my friends say other people in the cafe seem to "like Obama's style."

It's a small thing--but interesting. Here's a link if you'd like to know more about the news conference. CNN Political Ticker: All politics, all the time Blog Archive - Obama: Trip hasn’t changed mind on Iraq « - Blogs from CNN.com

[happ]

Yes, in stark constrast to Bush's comments in Israel criticizing Obama. Class is something the GOP has consistently failed in.

[trzlucky]

Obama isn't stupid. Had he taken a shot at Bush while overseas, he'd have gotten hammered back here. Despite Bush's unpopularity, that would have been suicide.

[pstratt]

He obviously has more class than his supporters, but we already knew that.

[shipm8]

Hell he doesn't even put down his opponent McSame without doing it with class!

[trzlucky]

Originally Posted by happ

Yes, in stark constrast to Bush's comments in Israel criticizing Obama. Class is something the GOP has consistently failed in.

If only Bush's comments were directed at Obama. Another example of Obama and his supporters thinking too highly of him and thinking the word revolves around him.

[kidicarus89]

Classy move. Though as mentioned, pragmatic as well. He'd have not looked very good criticizing the President to a foreign audience.

[delusianne]

I love it - it's such a geeky thing to know!

[normie]

Originally Posted by kidicarus89

Classy move. Though as mentioned, pragmatic as well.

Classy and pragmatic. Two good qualities in a leader.

[Luke29]

**** class....i would have hammered Bush like never seen before. Probably spend about 45 mins doing that - too bad i'm never gonna be a presidential candidate.