The Today Show: Who's at fault for Bill O'Reilly's racist remarks? Billo or Media Matters?
By Nicole Belle Wednesday Sep 26, 2007 11:34am
Matt Lauer of the Today Show looked at Billo's comments about the Harlem restaurant yesterday. I had to watch the video a few times to really put my finger on why it bothered me so much. And what it boiled down to is my big bugaboo: framing. While Jon Larson's report is neutral and gives the proper context for the discussion, Matt Lauer is all but blaming Media Matters for even having the gall to bring the event up.
Paul Waldman of Media Matters did very well. Kudos for this line: I think if Bill O'Reilly got caught robbing a bank, he'd say he was taken out of context. I'll be using that one quite a bit. The choice of bringing on a Republican strategist to defend Falafel Boy was another telltale. When did this become a Republican vs. Democrat issue? Just because Bill calls MM a "liberal smear site"? Lame, NBC.
After spending the entire segment defending O'Reilly, Lauer does finally admit that he thinks Bill would probably like to take it back. Small comfort there, Matt.
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Morning shows are sick. now this show is 4 hours. Jeezeus
Reich-wing motto: Attack the messenger at all costs.
Sure sucks to be held accountable, doesn't it Matt? That's why Media Matters exist, to call you corporatist syncophants out.
Lauer is a doucebag.
Does Lauer know the world isn't flat?
Phil.Griffin@nbcuni.com
Lauer did go out of his way to say that HE could understand what billo meant. Doesn't say much for Lauer does it?
Blame Canada!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pp13M7rlih0
MACKRIS! :D
NBC is desperately trying to stay relevant. Isn't there a war on?
Matt Liar is a "flaming" halfwit repig douchebag!!!
ckerst @ 6:
Does that mean Lauer wears a bed sheet on his head too?
No, it means he's a racist asshole like O'Reilly.
Dumbass.
"Juan Williams is one of the most respected black journalists in America." I was laughing to hard at that line to hear what came after that.
Why is it racist? As a white person, I'm always surprised when black people aren't screaming:
"GIMME SOME ICED TEA, MOTHER FUCKER!!!!!!!!!!!"
Seriously, the worst part about the whole thing is that I really believe BillO thinks this is the appropriate way to talk about the issue of stereotypes. It's not evn that his larger point is wrong - that in reality, stereotypes don't hold up. I think he was trying to get at that. HIS racism was revealed in his candor: that he 'couldn't get over' that black folks at Sylvia's were no different than white folks at the restaurants he apparently eats at.
It really could have been an opportuntiy for him to acknowledge that we all harbor racist sentiments, and his came out, but that his main point was that people are people. But that would require the acknowledgement that minorities don't have the same opportunities because racism is still lurking in all of us. That's something that Republicans have to deny to their dying breath for political reasons, no matter how obvious it is. It's one of the main reasons we can't have a sorely needed dialogue about race in this country.
Matt Lauer was just being glib.
2 points for anyone who gets that joke.
Normally I try not to get on the bandwagon of "Everyone in the media is against the left", but goddam! Could Matt Lauer have been any more slanted in his line of questioning and overall use of language in that interview? Hackery at its finest, indeed.
Here is my take.....and let me preface this by saying that I think that Bill O'Liely should stand trial as a propagandist with the other war criminals.
Bills comments ARE racism. However, this racism is what I call "Grandma Racism" (I may have gotten this from a comedian)....a little xenophobic, kind of unsure, and a little scared......maybe not crazy about the idea about "the darkies" moving into their neighborhood, but tolerant........overall pretty much benign.
His attitudes are pretty much in line with those of what his audience is. Old, white, unsophisticated, and scared.
V V
Dude from Media matters could have done better. When Matt Lauer said 'I took Bill to mean that NOBODY should be surprised that black is equal to white.... blah, blah, blah" he should have responded that that is exactly the point, Bill O WAS surprised. And if you listen his audio, that is very clear.
I told people that Matt Lauer was a subversive ReThug. Now, he's not bothering to even hide that fact.
I wish he'd go on another of his "Where in the World is Matt Lauer" adventures, get lost and never return.
Or he could get lucky and find Carmen Sandiego...;-)
matt sux!
of course matt didn't ask any black people, did he?
Matt's just applying for a sweet gig on FOX - his contract ends soon.
There is nothing like a person who doesn't have a clue that what they do or say could be construed as "racist"....
Statements that imply "amazement" that black people are no different than white people in a comparative situation such as this restaurant quote from Billo just underlines the kind of person who is comfortably ignorant and blind to their own racist fallacies....
His salary is 9 Million a year. So I suspect his scripts and topics are decided from "above".
L.A. Confidential @ 24:
Billo' I'm referring to.
it took me a second to compose myself after the republican strategist said that juan williams is one of the "finest journalists"... the man from faux noise? the man handpicked by the white house to interview bush?
the today show and matt lauer are continual embarrassments. they really should take the "news" off of their marshmallow-like fluff they call journalism. it is pathetic.
and, as far as this controversy goes, bill-o is SUCH a racist he doesn't even know it. he wonders why people think he is a racist when he exposes his underlying prejudice.
Haven't listened to the clip yet, but the photo of the two smirking white guys with the caption "Do Harlem comments cross the line?" speaks volumes.
"NBC political analyst and Republican strategist" - isn't that a redundant phrase? Typically cynical ploy by NBC to have a black republican on the show to defend Falafel Bill.
ticktock @ 23:
Exactly. Picture a clueless dude repeating, "What'd I say? What'd I say?"
This kind of performance in the MSM is a consequence of the ferocity with which the Right has waged its war on the rest of us. Maybe Lauer is a Right-wing tool, maybe he's just caught in the fear of being labeled "liberal media". This fear has been so deeply instilled in otherwise comptent professional journalists that they insure themselves against the charge by leaning too far to the right. Since the Left doesn't have the same kind of discipline or ferocity in their message, their protests are ignored or dismissed as the MSM follows O'Lielly's lead and views them as "Far left loons". Although they would NEVER actually admit that, since it would be a breach of journalistic "balance".
Face it, people, the Right has succeeded in poisoning the well. The only things that might save us from their agenda are that 1) their agenda is so BAD for most Americans, and b) that they're so incompetent at actually implementing it.
THIS WEBSITE'S OBSESSION WITH O'REILLY HAS GONE TOO FAR.
FOR THE LOVE OF GOD PLEASE STOP
I'm taking a vomit break. Back shortly.
Ali @ 27:
Better listen before posting next time. The "smirking white guy" on the right is from Media Matters, the organization that was criticizing O'Reilly in the first place.
Samson- @ 26:
Tragic farce....
Now bill-o is screaming victim about the whole incident...
Where in the hell is Matt Lower?
Erm... how much does Matt Lauer team up with the Republican strategist against Media Matters in that segment? They were practically finishing each other's sentences.
And what they are doing inviting paid propagandists for a political party for a debate anyway?
No one has said what I think is obvious - that the whole thing was contrived by Billo, who said what he said specifically to get a reaction that he could then attack. He was baiting MM4A. I certainly dont fault MM4A for posting Billo's comments and making an issue out of Billo's prejudice, but does anybody really think Billo is so stupid that he didnt expect the reaction he got? I dunno, maybe he is that stupid, but I dont think so. The whole thing reeks of calculation.
This is the right wing MO: bait the "enemy" into a response. Same thing Bush tried to do with Saddam and is trying right now with Iran. Remember: right wingers try to bait their enemies, whether liberals or Muslims. When we take the bait, we need to be ready to undress them entirely and call them on their baiting tactics.
Well you do know that the Right Wing Medias game is to drag everyone down to their level. Apparently it works.
Matt is such an imbecile.
When Jack Welch was head of GE (NBC's parent company) he made the decision to have NBC News's content be an asset to GE corporate. Goombye independent news.
Which explains toads like Lauer.
Lauer = Cornhole
Jeffrey Davis @ 39:
Matt Lauer
Occupation: Television Personality
Isn't that what they all are anymore?
The Today Show: Who’s at fault for Bill O’Reilly’s racist remarks? Billo or Media Matters?
Well, that's a gargantuan DUH.
joe @ 30:
sorry, but lufa boy, el druggo, the heil one and the rest cannot just be ignored
as for matt trying to explain to his audience what lufa boy meant...sorry, but the man sees himself as a journalist...he knows how words should be phrased to send out a message
lufa boy is a racist, a jew hater and he hates women
but he will not nor should he lose his job
uncle joe mccarthy @ 43:
Yes Billo should be ignored. If the only audience he had was his loyal following pretty soon even they would get bored of him.
joe @ 30:
One of Bill's producers?
Perhaps a member of Fox News Security?
;)
Shredder @ 36:
You are right about baiting....
Right wing strategy purposely the stage and does like to literally "scream victim" if any there is even a slight statement from the opposition
How about addressing all avenues of response that the Right wing may employ when initially making an opposing argument....
Something to take the wind out of the "scream victim" scenario....
Ummm Your honor I'd like to point out that once again Matt is leading the witness. Media Matters your on your own to defend your behavior.
It is gonna be very difficult to stick the racist label on Billo Reilly based on his Sylvia's restaurant comments. Billo trumped his critics and killed the controversy by enlisting the support of very high profile Blacks who have come to his defense. Among his apologists are the likes of Juan Williams, ESPN's 'Screamin' A. Smith, Al Sharpton, and Jesse Jackson. They have all stepped forward and publicly granted Billo a ghetto pass on this issue.
L.A. Confidential @ 44:
One thing -- among many -- that bugged the hell out of me was Billafel comment, "I think black Americans are starting to think more and more for themselves.".
WTF???!?!
As official GOP propaganda catapulters and sactioned distortionists for the crookedest, most mendacious administration in history, O'Riley and Faux News are responsible for keeping Bush's loyal 29% stupid, scared and lathered up to overreact on command in perfect lockstep over whatever rancid hooey gets tossed at them.
They continue being the most ignorant about current affairs, ludicrously out of touch with reality no matter what irrefutable facts surround them. Even people who gave the WH the benefit of the doubt on their warmongering are with most of the world now in knowing that there were no imminently threatening WMDs, there was no Iraq/al Qaeda connection, and no connection between Saddam and 9/11.
But not Felafel Boy's core audience of rabid glassy-eyed wingnuts.
Out of context, my ass.
I take it this interview was a piece to cloud the issue over Bill O.
The last words were, " the debate over this will continue ".
What debate? Bill's attacking media matters because Bill didn't like what Bill said himself?
And a Republican strategist is there in defense of Bill? What is that?
Bill O, for a top right wing media croney hack, not to simply look at his error and come back and say, "let me clarify my words " is a ego credibility problem BillO should see a head shrinker about. It is possible Bill O hated his parents and it manifested itself over the years into what Bill O is now.
If Bill O is a top dog in the media and at FOX. Why does he choose to argue over his own misguided words on his TV show when he could be addressing questions on matters of great importance.
Like, If the Iraq occupation is the modern day war for the worlds future as President Bush basically puts it. Bill O should be asking and debating why after Bush would state that importance on Iraq. Bill O could be addressing "Why are we using so little military to accomplish it"? But again Bill O has to support his political party in most of the inane issues, and he of all people is one of the most abusers of placing words in in liberals mouths, perpetuating hate for political difference and playing entrapment with liberal guests on his show to portray them as "wackos".
When has Bill O had a republican Wacko on his show and then say all Repubs are wackos like this one ??
Bill O was condescendingly making a observation that the rest of America understood a long time ago.
Bill O's commentary does not represent many in the nation, he is out of date and out of sync with America.
But what can one expect from a "aged out of touch Croney". I don't expect Bill O to use his media time as a gift to help really inform people because he continues to be a good water carrying pack mule for the GOP.
Isn't there some white preppy girl missing somewhere that is more important than giving recognition to Americans who died in the line of duty in Iraq? That Bill O would be so concerned of the Petraeus ad and how the Generals feeling might be hurt while you have US military in Iraq on 15 month tours under constant threat.
Bill O has no priorities of lifes urgency.
Media Matters in this instance (and IMHO) just creates more of a "Boy Who Cried Wolf" problem with this. Who cares what Bill O'Really? has to say anyway? I can't stand him and he's an arrogant buffoon. However, why not slay him with words that cannot be characterized in any other fashion than bad? Why put something up that was said to a solid black journalist who took no offense to his opinion and was surrounded by an underlying theme of support for color-blindness? Unless I am completely misreading the text in question, this creates much ado about nothing and diminishes the clarity of future calls for BIllO to be dropped from network TV for his truly retched comments and actions - none of which includes journalistic integrity.
This is NOT once of those incidents. Hell, the idiot at CBS said REALLY OFFENSIVE stuff on the air and WASN'T trying to be nice about it, nor could anyone mistake the way inwhich he meant it. That BIllO is a moron is not news. Why waste your efforts and energy on something that isn't there?
I think what is confusing to so-called mainstream media apologists for Bill O'Reilly is that are mistaking his racist stereotypes as an attempt to criticize those stereotypes. It's sad really, because they are going out of their way to try to "understand" and put a good spin on what they think O'Reilly meant. While O'Reilly may have been trying to criticize racism, he exposed himself as someone who has accepted and internalized some racist stereotypes. What's worse, is that people like Sanchez from CNN and Matt Lauer are going beyond giving the news of this event, and are actively framing it in a beneficial way for O'Reilly, who has a radio program and a prime time show, so he can clearly speak for himself. They don't need to and shouldn't be speaking for O'Reilly.
Why do people waste their time watching this crap in the morning? Jeez, aren't there any game shows on or something? You know what? I think every time they talk about a controversy like this on The TaDUH Show, they should have comedian Kathy Griffin on to give a REAL spin on the ridiculousness of it all. I could just see her reaming Billo a new one! And besides, NBC could cross-promote her show on Bravo. But don't you think someone like Griffin would be a perfect antidote to these soulless plastic hosts on these morning TV talkfests? And maybe a hot gay guy as a co-host!
On this point Bill O'Reilly won, and that Media Matter aim was to bring defamation of his character on the issue of racism.
I don't think that he was surprise on how a black behave in the public eatery, but that people need to get out more and see that there is no difference in color of how people behave. There are people that think blacks are different from the rest of the world, and my father is one of them. Some people will never get out there and associate with them and learn on hand that they have the same needs, desire and welfare for their children.
My father biggest argument is that there are more blacks in prison than any other race. We watch Cop show with more blacks being busted for crime, and we watch hip hop artist that act like gangster from the ghetto. Bill O'Reilly point was that we see too much of that on TV and not get out there and see real Afro-Americans face to face.
I am reminded of what Morgan Freeman, the actor says about ending racism, he says the best way to end racism was not to talk about it.
To this day I am shock by what Morgan says because its a double edge sword, if you talk about it you make it an issue and if you don't talk about it nothing gets fix. But i suppose if you never talk about it, then it would never be an issue. Racism is taught and not a natural inclination to separate ourselves from it. I see children of all race play together and not think anything of it.
Wow...another black man defending Bill O & FOX news!. Whats the world coming to?!
Matt's an idiot! What Billo said was the same thing as saying "I have black friends" or "Your people" or "You people" It is a racist remark.
Matt Lauer is not a journalist. He is a 'personality,' and as such shouldn't be taken seriously.
My point is the media can stir up racism by only giving more light to the sensational side of racism to the point that someone who lives in a all white town are going to freak out when a afro-american person moves in the area. I know that has happen and I have seen several nice afro-american couple move away from that town when they had enough of it.
>I wish he’d go on another of his “Where in the World is Matt Lauer” adventures
Like maybe Khandahar ....(remember that place?)
and take the rest of the Corporate War Cheerleaders with him.
IdahoMoe @ 40:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WDpzbmHMcEQ
I think the Senate Democrats need to officially apologize to O'Reilly, and pass a resolution condemning Media Matters!
The political left is finding themselves in the uncomfortable position of instructing Black folks about racism. If Black folks say they are not offended by Billo Reilly comments and do not consider it racist, white liberals look like a bunch of condescending jackasses by insisting they do. Prominent Blacks have already stated in the mass media that the contextual content of Billos remarks do not rise to the level of anti Black racism and they are not upset at Billio. At that point white liberals have got to drop the topic. Billio's worst offense, in this instance, is that he is a clueless lout trying to pass himself off as a guy with genuine insight about how to improve race relations.
So let me see if I get this... if someone says something that reflects his or her beliefs and it's racist, let's say, that person isn't responsible for saying it... some third party completely outside of it, like the one calling the person on his or her racism, is?! What a fucked up world these talking heads live in... heads firmly up their respective butts!
What irks me the most about this report is how Lauer makes the entire debate about Bill-O's intent, rather than about his obvious ignorance. Even if Bill-O was well intentioned in his comments, his utterly ignorant world view was presented for all to see. Someone who feels as if they have a right to speak as an expert on race issues (among other issues), should really be held to the fire when displaying how unqualified they are to speak on race issues, regardless of their intent.
Similarly, someone could intends to share their views on how far women have come in the workplace by exclaiming that they were so shocked to see that women were not just secretaries and that they were allowed to do the same work as men, and are even allowed to supervise men. Ignorance is not tolerable just because of one's good intentions. However, the only thing worse than an ignorant person with good intentions is an ignorant person intent on never admitting his/her ignorance (see O'Reilly). Stubborn, self-righteous ignoramouses are the worst.
Bill O'Reilly hasn't, to my knowledge, sexually harassed Andrea Mackris or any TV producer since 2004. That's a stellar 3.5 year record of not making a series of explicit phone calls to fellow employees, advising them to use a vibrator and telling them about his sexual fantasies involving them.
Does the average american even understand the depths of GE's involvement with the War Industry?
Of course they need their own network!
Just one long VNR.
Even a dog knows the difference between getting kicked; and being tripped over. Intent is everything. Most Black folks will not call for the firing of O'Reilly on this issue. They understand this is not another Imus case.
Vitam Vas @ 17:
Bravo and Brava!! Well worded and right on target. Especially the last paragraph. I agree with you wholeheartedly.
And I'm not part of his audience. The only time I hear the blithering fool is here. Can't bring myself to listen to all the bile he spews either... I find he usually shows himself for what an ignorant fool he is very early on in his screed.
RMac @ 51:
O'Lielly has 2 MILLION+ viewers. That's why it's important.
That's what we need more of...Republican rhetoric busters. We need a website that documents what right-wing phrases should set off red flags in the audience's mind. One of them would be saying that something was taken out of context. Another would be pointing out an example of ONE Democrat doing something bad to make it seem like both sides are doing it equally, so what's the point of talking about it.
I don't know if Republicans would make Socrates proud or sick.
Bill O can be forgiven, after all he ordered Black Eyed Peas, Corn Bread, Pulled Pork, and a side of Greens. Ummmm...Pulled Pork.
mrogi @ 61:
Who gives a damn what "prominent blacks" say. "Prominent white" think that there are weapons of mass destruction still in Iraq. What in the hell does that even mean? I'm black and I'm offended by Billo's ignorance as are the vast majority of apparently "less prominent blacks" that I know. To label Billo's worst offense as simply being a clueless tout is dangerous and short-sighted. It's actually this ignorance, rather than full-fledged racism, that stands as the ever-present obstacle preventing fundamental progress in race relations. As long as people just cast this behavior aside, this ignorance will continue fuel behavior that will be perceived as racist by everyone else except the unfortunate, well-unitended, clueless lout.
Matt's a well known Bush-swab.
America holds a referendum on Billio Reilly on a nightly basis. The viewing public prefers Billo over Olbermann by a margin of more than 3 to 1. Case closed.
Could you imagine being black and working for Bill O?
mrogi @ 75:
Paris Hilton is popular too.
mrogi @ 75:
America prefers broadcast news over O'Racist O'Reilly's opinions by a margin of 50:1. Case closed.
patthemonkey @ 73:
He'd just complain she pulled his too hard.
paranoia @ 60:
The town was racist to begin with and someone who talks about racism shouldn't be held accountable for the towns ignorance about people who don't look like them.
no really, talking about racism doesn't stir up racism...racist do though
YouCantHandleDaTruth @ 77:
Or better yet, could you imagine being Bill O?
mrogi @ 64:
Who are these "blacks" and why should I as a black person really care what they think?
BTW: Offensive is offensive no matter what race the person who apologizes is.
mrogi @ 75:
Case closed. That's just dumb. A referendum on Billo isn't held by assessing who watches Fox News and MSNBC. I wonder how many people in this country don't watch either of these guys. Since the answer is a lot more than those who watch, I'd suggest that your referendum doesn't say squat about what America thinks. Even if there was a referrendum on which individual they prefer, it doesn't mean that they prefer everyone of his comments, perhaps just the show in general.
And BTW, even if the majority of America didn't have a problem with his comments. The majority of America was not the recipient of his ignorant comments. AND simply being in the majority, especially on a social/racial issue doesn't mean you're right. See slavery/the struggle for women's rights/etc.
By bringing on a Republican strategist, the producers of the "Today" show are all but admitting that FOX is not a news network but rather the propaganda arm of the GOP.
gene214 @ 85:
The true crime IMHO is that they still entertain FAUX.
True minerals would be to call them what they are and ignore them a lot.
mrogi @ 76:
Using this "logic", Hitler was right and the Jews were wrong. Congrats, you frickn' lunatic.
mrogi @ 69:
I agree, it isn't. Imus' situation pales in comparison to the pure and blatant racism spewed from your reich-wing hero O'Reilly.
Matt: Isn't it true that Media Matters is making something out of nothing and that Bill was an innocent victim caught up by sensationalism? Isn't just mean what they did to him?
Republican Butt Plug: Right, Matt. It's heinous. Aren't those people crappy? And further, it isn't fair. We won't sit back and take it, I can assure you of that.
Matt: Don't you think Bill meant to be a uniter? I mean, wasn't the crux of his message positive?
Republican Butt Plug: Thank you for saying that, Matt. You are a genius. Smart and sexy. I like the way you talk.
Matt: Hey, Media Matters Guy? Why are you such a sourpuss and a hater? Why are you entrapping Bill O?
Media Matters Guy: Entrap? All we did is post what he said - the full transcript, in context.
Matt: You're just wrong. Wrong and mean, Media Matters Guy.
Bill O does realize that this county might potentially have a black president!?!?!?!?!?
I sent the following to the Today Show yesterday. I realize it had the same effect as sgoveling the tide, but it made me feel a little better:
You guys have got the last news show left in the morning and even you have leapt onto the bandwagon to defend O'Reilly's latest gaffe.
I'll grant you that his commentary was more Archie Bunker than David Duke, but it still showed the latent racism - the white/black dichotomy - that has allowed the Lee Atwater/Karl Rove strategy to whip up the redneck vote. To see that that racism exists requires only a trip into the rural south. Jena ripped the scab from that wound and Jena's whites are playing the same injured victim role as Bill O'Reilly.
I'll grant you, O'Reilly's thoughtless comments were little more than that, but he claims and is accorded near godlike status as a pundit so he should know better. One wonders who will claim that, like the Jena nooses it wasn't "just a prank."
You're not alone Matt.
I've seen Lehrer do it, shushing an apoplectic Tom Oliphant while allowing the author of the Swift Boat smear to spew his slime unchallenged. That show gave a certain cachet to the whole thing. Of course the networks, cable and over the air, ran the Swifties trash on continuous loop...
The reason I don't watch ABC now is that, protests notwithstanding, Charlie Gibson sometimes sounds like he's auditioning for a Fox News anchor job. Diane Sawyer's delivery drives me nuts which has nothing to do with journalism - just my personal preferences.
Wolf Blitzer thinks that 50:50 means neutral - even if the story is about global warming he gives Exxon's blond spokeswoman and Dobson the same amount of time as a climatologist and then allows them half the screen so they can make faces while the climatologist talks.
What is it you guys fear so much? That's all I wanted to know. Why the media wide compulsion to defend Bill O'Reilly? What hold does he have over you?
Knowing this will be read by an assistant to an intern and deleted, I still feel some relief in asking.
I may be going deaf but I listened to the report and not once did I hear the offensive line O-Rilley uttered. Everything but that line though...
Did anyone here the M-f line he said in there..?????
Nice job defending bill-O huh?
Whether you are liberal or conservative, if you are honest, you will admit that O'Reilly is much more entertaining and compelling than any other news/commentary program on cable. Even if you hate Billo, his show is riveting because he consistently tackles contemporaneous & controversial topics involving a confrontational faceoff with someone who strongly opposes his viewpoint. The next time Keith Olbermann invites a guest who disagrees with his opinion; it will be the first time.
sorry It is "hear"... :) Why not replay the actual problem line ??
Matt sucks. He so badly wants to be accepted by the "daddies" on Faux and Clear Channel. Bill has a track record of eugenicism
This is unbelievable that NBC would actually allow this hack Lauer to defend O'Reilly after all of the attacks they have received from the Giant Head. I can't believe that Lauer is repeating the same context nonsense. O'Reilly's direct quote is "And I couldn't get over the fact that there was no difference between Sylvia's restaurant and any other restaurant in New York City. I mean, it was exactly the same, even though it's run by blacks, primarily black patronship." What is the context of this? He clearly states that he is surprised that a black restaurant can be the same as any other restaurant. To say "even though it is run by blacks" is clearly a racist statement.
mrogi @ 93:
The next time O'Racist O'Reilly reports the facts and truth; it will be the first time.
mrogi @ 93:
No actually he isn't whatsoever unless you like listening to blowhards spouting off utter nonsense...
Wow, that made my head spin...
Media Matters For America is responsible for Bill O'Reilly's racism because they reported it? NBC invites a republican strategist to defend Fox "News" personality Bill O'Reilly (the registered independent)? Lauer feeds the Republican strategist lines like, "Is this the 'gotchya' mentality?"
MMFA guy was good to point out, "Did what to him? We published his words in the full transcript."
GIVE ME SOME ICED TEA, MOTHER-FUCKER!!!
Lauer says Bill O would gladly take a "do-over" on his statements if he could. The obvious response to that is "Well why the hell hasn't he? He could just say his remarks weren't quite what he intended and then say what he meant. But he hasn't, has he, Matt? He has the opportunity every night to take back the insults - to say that he shouldn't have expressed surprise at blacks being polite, and that it was wrong to say blacks haven't been thinking for themselves - but he hasn't done that."
As much as I can't stand Tom Cruise, I really wish he had popped Lauer during Cruise's episode of chemical imbalance on Today a couple of years ago.
The reason why reich-wingers are defending O'Reilly is because reich-wingers are innately racist and believe there is nothing wrong with being a blatant racist.
mrogi @ 93:
What color is the sky in your world? O'Reilly makes me physically ill when I watch for more than a couple minutes.
By the way, I think you mean "contemporary" not "contemporaneous," but I think "current" might be more clear.
mrogi @ 76:
Question, what does his ratings have to do with anything that he said? If he is now your newly appointed mouthpiece of America, that would mean that it is a 3:1 ratio of ignorance to actual fact in this nation. Its really nice to know that cognitive lapses can outweigh anything proven in our society.
mrogi @ 76:
That is the most idiotic comment on this thread. Even a child can figure out that popular doesn't equal right, and popular doesn't equal quality. Anyone who makes an argument like yours should just not take part in the discussion at all.
mrogi @ 93:
I've seen many interviews in which Olbermann didn't agree with things his guests have said. The difference is that Olbermann is professional and respectful. He doesn't talk down to them, cut off their mikes or insult them.
Sailor Art Thomas Jr. @ 14:
and the whole idea that it couldn't have been a racist remark because he was talking to a black man is just ridiculous...
I listened to the whole thing and it wasn't too bad, IMO. Certainly no Imus moment. Racist, a little, but what do you expect from this guy. But, he was having dinner with Sharpton, and that says something. OMG! I'm defending O'Reilly? What really bugs me about Bill is his ideal of a totalitarian state where somebody like him makes makes draconian laws with harsh punishment without any hint of civil rights....but not to worry...that could never happen.
Old Billy @ 102:
By the way, I think you mean "contemporary" not "contemporaneous," but I think "current" might be more clear.
Thanks Old Billy. "Current" is the simple and precise word I needed. Simplicity is the hardest thing to achieve.
That O'Reilly's comments are racist isn't even debatable. Of course they are. Joe Watkins can't even admit that even what he calls the "good" and the "positive" aspects of O'Reilly's statements are backhanded compliments at best. Juan Williams may well be "one of the most respected black journalists in America" but he's a wussie. He may occasionally ask a tough question or two. His reporting can be insightful. However, particularly in one-on-one interviews with right-wingers, Williams too often chooses to avoid confrontation letting questionable, outrageous and downright false comments stand unchallenged.
AF
mrogi @ 93:
entertaining..... hmmm, maybe that is the problem with society today. instead of looking for solid information, excellent journalism or fact-based findings so many people want, no NEED to be entertained. nevermind that this 'newsformation' is myopic, biased, simplistic and insulting--as long as it entertains.... sad, it really is.
it amazes me how people can be so distracted by verbal-gladitorialism, and not have a care in the world about the one-sided, inaccurate and dishonest "newsformation" being spewed out, and the effect that has on society as a whole (for instance, the percentage of faux noise viewers who STILL think saddam ordered 9/11).
what happens when members of a representative democracy are not only uninformed but make a conscious decision to avoid factual information and look to be "entertained"? answer: we get politicians like bush
[Deleted. Flamebait-Sitemonitor]
It was clear from the context of the conversation that BO was making a comparison between reality and the pervasive thuggishness in some Black culture which might disproportionately bias sheltered White Americans into thinking all Blacks behave badly.
BO is an idiot, though, and could not articulate this comparison any better.
Simply put, a racist, in the most elemental sense of the word, would not be dining with Sharpton at Silvia's in the first place.
BO's racism is not about dis-liking individual Blacks, but about denial of the reality of the overall situation of Blacks, and perhaps a racist paternalism which leads him to imply that Blacks do not think for themselves and rely on race-baiters for leadership.
Some commenters have already pointed out the irony of an authoritarian propagandist imploring people to think for themselves.
BillO has bashed the Daily Kos, Media Matters, and many others. i'm dying for the day he gets pissed at sweetjesusihatebilloreilly.com - just to hear those words coming out of his mouth.
(no, i'm not holding my breath on this, but hope springs eternal!)
We all watch cable & broadcast news to be entertained as well as informed. The entertainment aspect is the only reason we endure the commercials. Those who only want unadulterated news have many other options. National Public radio is broadcasted daily in every city in America. PBS offers you national news and commentary on a nightly basis. CSPAN is easily accessible everywhere. All those 'pure' news outlets have one thing in common; THEY GET ZERO RATINGS. The American public votes with their clickers every single day and they dont give a damn about 'pure' news.
steve @ 15:
Just wanted to give a Kudos to this comment. You got it right on.
Lauer contends that Mr Bill was trying to point out to Americans that ALL blacks don't conform to the standard stereotypes.However it seems that if ANYBODY needs convincing of that fact,it is BILL HIMSELF.The fact that Matt apparently doesn't GET this says a lot about HIM as well.What was that about "the soft bigotry of low expectations" again?
“And I couldn’t get over the fact that there was no difference between Sylvia’s restaurant and any other restaurant in New York City. I mean, it was exactly the same, even though it’s run by blacks, primarily black patronship.”
1. Bill-O expected there to be a difference.
2. He couldn't understand why there wasn't one. Can't get over that fact.
3. He thinks blacks are incapable of running a successful business, or expected lower standards in health / food quality.
4. He thinks blacks are bling-wearing thugs demanding iced tea (Ice-T?) at gunpoint, or that they don't use silverware.
This isn't borderline racism, nor is it 'out of context.' He's not 'explaining it to his listeners' - we are hearing Bill's thoughts (such as they are) right from the source.
This is not entertaining nor compelling - it's appalling.
mrogi @ 114:
and we are neither entertained nor informed.
in the case of "the today show" the solution is simple: stop watching.
Dr. Matt @ 88:
The sentiment is the same in both cases: blacks are lesser creatures, not quite up to snuff and our expectations are lower. It's a pleasant surprise when the nappyheaded things are NOT dressed with their underwear showing, talking in ebonics, laced with four-letter words.
Sinch @ 112:
hmm, maybe matt is eyeballing the tony snow job?
he looks like a white house boy. he's even balding and you know how george love the bald head. ummm.
BaScOmBe @ 120:
As it's been pointed out, calling someone like Colin Powell or Barack Obama 'well-spoken' isn't a compliment ... it's saying you don't expect a black man to be able to speak.
Jenny'O @ 122:
Uh-I don't think so. Tony left because the money sucked. Can you imagine how much more money Matt makes ($13 million a year) than Tony Snow ever did? He'd never last on a low six figure salary.
Shadowgm @ 117:
many people miss the racist condescension. You articulated it very well. It's reminds me of when I found out how HR coded black job applicants at a former place of employment:(I had a friend in HR).
sw = speaks well *
dw = dresses well *
wm = well-mannered *
* = the implied (missing) continuation: "for a n----r"
[Edited for The Word-Sitemonitor]
"I hate political correctness. It's getting to a point in this country where you cant give a jigaboo a compliment without being branded a racist" _bill o'reilly
miss_kitty @ 124:
That Botox doesn't grow on trees, you know.
shoreke @ 125:
:)
mrogi @ 93:
excuse me, but having on individuals with whose positions you disagree with, just to shout them down and call them names is nothing more than talk show porn
mrogi @ 93:
:lol: :lol: :lol: :lol: :lol:
I can't see how BOR can spin this since he was either showing his own rascist underbelly or insinuating that his audience is rascist and needing of his enlightenment.
Funny how the MSM accuses others of missing the underlying point of BOR's boorishness, but remain totally clueless about others missing the underlying points of of Move-On's ads, or Clinton's disgust at how the republicant's are using it as bait and switch.
mrogi @ 76:
as the majority of the 3 are over 60, the case is far from closed
lufa boys audience skews old and is not getting younger....or growing
so in 5 years, he has no audience
while ko continues to attract younger viewers and in 5 years will still have a career
Beware: Juan Williams has been appointed by the MSM to represent the left's viewpoint.
Just sayin'
mrogi @ 114:
Why do you reich-wingers think you speak for others?
Matt Lauer belong to the "Bill O'Rightly and the "I'll direct you toward your answers interview" clubs?
What a measly whore for the Bill'O fascist supporters.
Of course O'Reilly's comments were covered with his brand of smarmy racism. "I was surprised" "I mean there wasn't anybody yelling M-Fer" "black people are starting to think for themselves"- Fuck! The whole program is laced with racist innuendo and propoganda! And to have an African American Republican strategist who gets paid to spin as the right side of the debate is racist! Those that say that it's not have something to hide or sell.
Bill O is such a baby. Typical conservative and typical bully....he can dish it out but can't take it. Bill O, if you can't take the heat, guess you better get out of the kitchen.
The Bush administration paid O'Reilly to ignite a public firestorm over the rhetorical minutiae his words so that the public will be distracted from the disaster of the Iraq War.
Something else that annoys me to no end is the rightwing's endless use of the term "politically correct".Political correctness is all about power over language and "framing".
Are we to believe that Conservatives don't seek to control the language?
Please.They practically invented it.
This nonsense has gotten to the point that Glenn Beck told his listeners that Braille for the Blind on restroom doors drives him crazy because its so "politically correct".
This phrase is the perfect cover for bigots like Beck and Bill-O to hide behind.
It saves them from having to be accountable.
Matt Lauer couldn't pour piss out of a boot with the directions on the leg, what a lame brain. The today show has been on the air way way too long, it is a waste of time.
Braille for the Blind on restroom doors is comical. What blind person wants to slide their hand across a toilet door infested with remnants of feces and urine in order to find the sign?
LuLubell @ 138:
:) He wouldn't piss with his pants on fire unless someone told him to..
shoreke you may HAVE a point while managing to MISS IT entirely...good trick.
Lauer is so dumb he couldn't find his ass with both hands. Lauer couldn't spell cat if you spotted him the c and t. Lauer is dumber than a box of hammers. Lauer is so dumb he stared at a can of orange juice because it said 'concentrate'. Lauer is so dumb he sold his car for gas money.
...I ran out of cliches.
Bebop @ 74:
Well said!! (clapping)
Mat Lauer.. Katie Kouric.. and the rest of those ignorant pompus melon head people could and should vanish in the rapture..
They are awful.. and I tend to find people that watch that drivel in the morning are shallow, vapid ..but well groomed savages.
If you are one of these people..
STOP.
IrresistibleB1tch @ 106:
Juan Williams gets no respect that I know of in my Black community. As long as he spouts off for Fox, he will never be respected in the Black community.
I am 100% certain that anybody who denies that Juan Williams is a respected Black journalist is somebody who has never read any of his books. BTW, his biography of the late great Supreme Court Justice Thurgood Marshall is a most excellent read.
Sinch @ 112:
Racist need not loathe another race they perceive as a lower sort to still be a racist. They can live next to the race they think is a lower sort, work with them and even hire them but their racist thoughts will eventually come out in actions that they don't accept which in Bill'Os case might be something other than dining with a black person. Bill expressed surprise that a race of people didn't act in the lower sort of way he thought they would act which in and of itself
Bottom line: could you see Bill'O accepting his daughter marrying Ludacris?
YouCantHandleDaTruth @ 148:
Bottom line: could you see Bill'O accepting his daughter marrying Ludacris?
Does Billo Reilly despise Ludacris because he is Black?
mrogi @ 149:
Does Billo Reilly despise Ludacris because he is Black?
Given his recent statements I would lean towards yes, he certainly thinks a vast majority of blacks act like Ludacris and expressed surprised that we don't.
BTW: Ludacris is one of the best rap artist of the last 4 years who lyrically and implements syllables from verbiage in his bars that most rap artist wish they could with 4 months of pre-write. He's talented and taught world wide in universities ....well,..except in the US where people (like bill) think a whole culture is the baser sort of a race
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