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LePage rejects critics: 'Tell 'em to kiss my butt'

Staff Report
Staff Report
Maine |
Friday, January 14, 2011 at 2:56 pm

SANFORD — In response to allegations from the NAACP that he is displaying a pattern of non-participation of their events, LePage told reporters today "Tell 'em to kiss my butt."

The Press Herald reported today that NAACP leaders were concerned that the governor declined invitations to a Martin Luther King Jr. Day dinner in Portland the night before and a lunch in Bangor the following day.

WCSH6 is reporting that the governor explained why he did not plan to attend the events hosted by the NAACP while at a meeting for business leaders in Sanford.

"They are a special interest. End of story ... and I'm not going to be held hostage by special interests. And if they want, they can look at my family picture. My son happens to be black, so they can do whatever they'd like about that," LePage told reporters on camera.

According to an October article in the Waterville Morning Sentinel, Paul and Ann LePage's son Devon Raymond is from Jamaica. Raymond goes to school at the University of Louisiana, and is not a U.S. citizen.

When asked what his response was to the NAACP suggesting that his rejection of its invitation was more than just one instance, but a pattern, LePage replied, "Tell 'em to kiss my butt. ... If they want to play the race card, come to dinner and my son will talk to them."

According to a press release from the governor's office, LePage has personal commitments on Sunday and he is attending the funeral of a state trooper on Monday.

WGME interviewed Portland NAACP President Rachel Talbott-Ross for a response to the governor's comments. Ross said, "What is the message to all Mainers when their governor feels he can arrogantly, with all the power he's been bestowed, to arrogantly tell the whole history of a people that they don't matter, they do not matter." She said that she hoped the governor would meet with the NAACP in the future.

This afternoon, the president of the NAACP, Benjamin Todd Jealous, responded, “Governor LePage’s decision to inflame racial tension on the eve of the King holiday denigrates his office. His words are a reminder of the worst aspects of Maine’s history and out of touch with our nation’s deep yearning for increased civility and racial healing. “

According to the press release from the governor's office, when LePage was mayor of Waterville, he gave the Martin Luther King Jr. Day welcome addresses at the Muskie Community Center in 2004, 2005, 2006 and 2008. According to Carmen Benard, the organizer of the MLK events at the center, LePage attended "most, if not all" of the MLK breakfasts held at the center in the past eight years.

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Comments

larryt39's picture
verified

Posters to be fully identified.

By Larry T. Doughty, verified user — Sun, 01/16/2011 - 15:55

Looking forward to February 1, for that major change coming. People making comments, will have to be responsible for whatever it is they wish to say. Won't that be a breathe of fresh air. Hoping that the Bangor Daily News follows suit, and soon. Isn't it ironic, that if a newspaper chooses to print a letter, then one must provide full name, address and phone number. Then verification is done via a simple phone call. Wishing Lewiston Journal in that endeavor.

Madeleine's picture

Responsibility, hmmmm....

By Madeleine, unverified — Sun, 01/16/2011 - 17:38

Everyone should be responsible for what the say...including the governor! I guess as vile as some of the commenters may seem, I have yet to see anyone tell another person to "Kiss their butt" or to"Go to hell". Just saying :)

fatandhappy's picture

That's what you think

By fatandhappy, unverified — Sun, 01/16/2011 - 17:52

I told you to kiss my butt just a few minutes ago, I just didnt post it on here

hehehe

cbechard59's picture
verified

Talks like a regular Joe not a politician

By Clem Bechard, verified user — Sun, 01/16/2011 - 13:47

I guess I don't see it. He talks the way the average guy talks to his buddies. He does not try to think about how to make things sound better. If you guy's don't like it you can kiss my butt also...

Madeleine's picture

Oh Please...

By Madeleine, unverified — Sun, 01/16/2011 - 20:23

He talks the way the average guy talks to his buddies??? Sorry, C.Bechard, there's nothing average about the governor of any state telling any group of people to kiss his butt. Actually it us pretty sleezy. If Mr. Lepage chooses to talk this way to his friends, and they have such little self-respect as to except this sort of demeaning remark directed at them...oh well. But, as Governor of the state of Maine he speaks for the people. We don't need anyone especially the Governor representing us in such a manner. As far as kissing your butt...I believe we will all pass...kiss your own butt! :(

George Blanker's picture

FatandHappy

By George Blanker, unverified — Sun, 01/16/2011 - 13:45

Hi, what part of Arkansas did you grow up in? How long have you been doing,"life as it should be"?

fatandhappy's picture

Mr Blanker

By fatandhappy, unverified — Sun, 01/16/2011 - 14:10

Do you really expect me to answer a derogatory question like that?

I have read many of your posts and I strongly disagree with almost all of them. But out of respect for your opinions and beliefs, I have never confronted you directly. I don't understand your need to confront me in such an inflammatory fashion now.

I respectfully decline to answer your question.

George Blanker's picture

Fatand???

By George Blanker, unverified — Sun, 01/16/2011 - 14:39

Sorry, I was being friendly?? I like Arkansas.

Madeleine's picture

hehehe :)

By Madeleine, unverified — Sun, 01/16/2011 - 17:20

Too funny :)

George Blanker's picture

hehehe

By George Blanker, unverified — Sun, 01/16/2011 - 23:23

Not really, I sure did miss my cue that guy that "says" he is from Arkansas gave me.......
If Kiss My Butt wouldn't been appropriate then, I don't know when it would have been. ? :(

verified

Fatuous Fellow

By Steve Lindsey, verified user — Sat, 01/15/2011 - 22:49

Well done Maine!

First you chase the gays over the stonewall by opposing gay marriage, and now your undignified governor calls civil rights "special interests." I'm sure glad your fatuous fellow is making waves this way.... Wonder if he would consider treating old special interest in such a way....

I thought not.

Steve Lindsey
Keene, NH

fatandhappy's picture

What are you complaining about?

By fatandhappy, unverified — Sat, 01/15/2011 - 23:23

The voters rejected the gays, and the Gov rejected the outdated, greedy, suck off the sympathy of the public, "my special interest is more money for me" NAACP.

When are you people gonna learn that the Civil Rights war is over. There is a legal remedy on the books for each and every civil rights violation/crime that comes up. The NAACP is living in the past, and trying to make money off of the past. This is 2011, there are no Civil Rights issues, especially in Maine, that have not been addressed.

Yeah, Lepage should have been more diplomatic, but the truth remains that the NAACP is no longer needed.

veritas's picture
verified

How about a Recall Petition......

By Ronald Riml, verified user — Sat, 01/15/2011 - 21:37

What needs to be done??

lawntobemowed's picture

Do you think we can

By lawntobemowed, unverified — Sat, 01/15/2011 - 19:27

return him to Marden's and get our votes back?

Pericles's picture

Childish

By Pericles, unverified — Sat, 01/15/2011 - 19:16

I am sure LePage thinks he is just being "plain spoken" but to act so cavalierly towards Martin Luther King day and towards an organization with such a long history of campaigning for human dignity is not plain spokeness, it is immature and classless

mainebob's picture

What do we know about Lepage ?

By mainebob, unverified — Sat, 01/15/2011 - 17:08

What do we know about him? What kind of books does he read ? Does he read ? Hobbies ? Does he play golf ? What ?

Rinoblast's picture

Classy

By Rinoblast, unverified — Sat, 01/15/2011 - 15:15

So the Governor starts a fight where one didn't exist, and starts a fight that didn't need to happen. All he has to say is "I'm not going, I have a prior commitment," but instead he decides that a reporters query has to be a personal affront and racial attack (which we saw happening in the campaign too). What a great example he sends to the kids of Maine. Forget how you feel about the NAACP, this was rude, disrespectful, and makes Maine look bad.

Mainer91's picture

Embarrassing on so many levels

By Mainer91, unverified — Sat, 01/15/2011 - 14:50

Just that fact that he would use that language is embarrassing; that he seems okay with being crude and rude when challenged even just a little bit is embarrassing; that he seems proud to set a bad example for our kids; that he thinks this is how Mainers want to be represented to the rest of the world; that he thinks we can't see through his "scheduling conflicts" to the real issue of he doesn't want to waste his time on silly things like the spirit of unity we celebrate on MLK Day; I am just so sorry and embarrassed for all of us. I've already had enough of his personality, and from what we've seen so far, his policies are and will be just as distressing. God help us.

rufe's picture
verified

Keep up your Indepence, Gov.

By Rufus Ham, verified user — Sat, 01/15/2011 - 14:28

I agree with our Gov. 100%. More, if it was mathematically possible. When he was in the early stages of running for office, I got a little upset with a couple of comments/statements that he made. (Most of us know what they were). So I pulled his campaign sign off my lawn. Less than a day later, I evaluated what I had done. BIG MISTAKE. At least in my estimation. I was being a hypocrite for doing that. I myself had always professed that our Politicions (which as we all know, are largely hypocritical), should be up front with their feelings, thoughts, ideas, etc. Negative or positive, which our Gov seems to fit in the latter category. NAACP, not only them, but many other organizations, LOVE TO HAVE THEIR BUTTS KISSED by our Politicians. I honestly believe that is one of the BIG reasons why our Country is in not the BEST position it is in now. Many laws passed are not for the Majority of the Peopke but for the Special Interest Groups. Maine has always been known as an Independent State which I sure hope does not cease to be.
So, Governor Lepage, please KEEP up your rhetoric. I certainly believe it will always work for you. (And us the People of the State of Maine). Am confident with you at the HELM that we as a STATE are going to see/have many, many POSITIVE changes.
The best of luck to you and GOD bless you and the STATE of MAINE.
Sincerely,
Rufe

pcaron7's picture
verified

Let the games begin

By Paul Caron, verified user — Sat, 01/15/2011 - 13:08

People, stop and think of how this began. Do you think he invited the media to ask that question. NAACP couldn't get Lepage to bend under their pressure so the NAACP tries to use the media to put pressure on him. He had 2 choices, either bend under the pressure or choose to blow them off since it isn't a worthy question but merely a political tactic. The NAACP tried a little politics and got burned. I doubt they had expected someone to stand up to them and ignore their childish foot stomping.

George 1943's picture
verified

Gov. LePage

By George McLean, verified user — Sat, 01/15/2011 - 12:53

Good, finally have a governor who will not make me feel that I am a minority in Maine.

veritas's picture
verified

What? Brotherhood of Bottom-Feeders Unanimous??

By Ronald Riml, verified user — Sat, 01/15/2011 - 21:34

- Now that he's come out of the Closet...........

Bill of Augusta's picture
verified

Funeral Notice For Maine State Trooper

By William L. Colburn III, verified user — Sat, 01/15/2011 - 11:19

For those who have been asking, the funeral which governor Lepage will be attending is for Trooper Charles Herbert "Chip" Howe IV from Vassalboro, ME, who passed away on 01/12/11.

http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/bangordailynews/obituary.aspx?n=charles...

mainebob's picture

Mardens

By mainebob, unverified — Sat, 01/15/2011 - 11:15

he should have stayed at Mardens. Bad times for the state.

VG1004's picture

Perfect

By VG1004, unverified — Sat, 01/15/2011 - 11:00

I would rather hear our Governor speak his mind then have some watered down, bipartisan, good for all, full of happy rainbows response. The NAACP should kiss his butt and mine. What the NAACP has turned into is far more offensive than LePages comment, and if your worried about your children taking his lead and talking back to their teacher you have nothing to worry about. I am assuming its because they are reading the paper and watching the news so they are well educated and would only talk back if the teacher deserved it (politely)...I remember having a few that did.
Where has political correctness gotten us? Look at who we have become and where we are headed. The media and government just exploited the incident in AZ (even made it a campaign kick off) and where is the backlash? It is sickening! We need more people with the backbone and integrity like our Governor and New Jersey's. God save us.

Madeleine's picture

You can't be serious.....

By Madeleine, unverified — Sat, 01/15/2011 - 12:37

VG1004, no one is asking for a happy rainbows response. We are asking for a responsible response! You stated,"If you're worried about your children taking his lead and talking back to their teacher you have nothing to worry about." Are you for real? Children are already telling teachers to "Kiss their butts" and they are telling their parents to"Kiss their butts" also. We don't need a governor from any state condoning or making this sort of behavior acceptable. In displaying the same kind of behavior as these unruly, disrespectful children, Mr Lepage, the governor of Maine, needs to remember that he represents not only his unruly and disrespectful-self...he also represents all of those that live in this state. He is to be the example that not only this state, but other states look up to. He was not elected to speak whatever comes to mind...he was elected to make good choices, starting with the way he thinks and speaks and acts.

The incident in AZ. is a perfect example of that "Kiss my butt mentality"! Jared Loughner had a history of telling people to, "Kiss his butt". He was disrespectful and unruly and showed complete lack of self-control!

As a student at Aztec Middle College in Tucson, Arizona, Loughner was prone to sudden outbursts in class, teachers said. He'd ask "incoherent" questions and make inappropriate comments.
http://news.blogs.cnn.com/2011/01/13/jared-loughners-background-reveals-...

Yes, Jared Loughner, had that "Kiss my butt" mentality...and these are the ones that paid the price, and let's not exclude family, friends and the rest of the country . Pamela Simon, 63, Mavanell Stoddard, 75, George Morris, 76, Randy Gardner, 60, James Eric Fuller, 63, Bill Badger, 74, Ronald Barber, 65, Susan Hileman, 58, Mary Reed, 52, Kenneth Dorushka, 63, Kenneth Veeder, 75, James Tucker, 58, U.S. Rep. Gabrielle Giffords, 40, Gifford aide Gabe Zimmerman, 30, Dorthy Murray, 76, Dorwin Stoddard, 76, and Phyllis Scheck, 79, Arizona's chief U.S. District Judge, John Roll, and 9-year-old Christina Greene.

One person's words and actions not only affects one's self...it affects many. Governor Lepage telling the NAACP to "Kiss his butt" affects all Mainers! Mr. Lepage telling the NAACP to "Kiss his butt" is far from being polite and is unacceptable.

VG1004, you finish with, "God save us"...I can assure you that God did not tell Mr. Lepage to make such a foul statement, and God didn't tell him to snicker and giggle about it afterwards! Instead of making excuses and enabling Mr. Lepage to continue to disrespect and exemplify this manner of lack of self-control...perhaps you should encourage him to do better.

#ixzz1B7XTv18B

Yellowdog's picture
verified

Special Interest Groups

By Tony Nazar, verified user — Sat, 01/15/2011 - 09:55

I'm assuming the governor is going to tell the Tea Parties (I can't believe they need more than one), the Heritage Foundation, the Maine CofC, and various other conservative, libertarian and pro-business groups to kiss his butt if they don't applaud everything he says and complain because their invitations to a gathering are rejected.

LePage is living proof that being a businessman is not any guarantee of the ability to govern. I just wish Maine enjoyed the right of recall. This guy needs to be returned to Marden's as defective merchandise.

KNSaisi's picture
verified

message vs intent

By Kevin Saisi, verified user — Sat, 01/15/2011 - 09:12

I support the intent of Governor LePage's words, but not the words he chose to express himself. I agree that leaders on all levels get too wrapped up with talking to special interest groups. It is good to be informed, but beyond that, there need to be limits.

If you have an issue you would like to address with an official, send them a letter, or email and provide contact information for questions. If specific legislation is involved, you can request to speak to the official, but realize that your request may still be denied. Remember that the official represents everyone within the area he/she serves, not just you. Above all, please remember that the official has work to do, and can't achieve anything if he/she spends his/her day talking with everyone.

rgreenlaw's picture
verified

remarks

By Roberta Greenlaw, verified user — Sat, 01/15/2011 - 09:04

he speaks his mind as the NAAcp invited him to visit the black people in Maine prisons and he rejected that and said he would visit all Maine prisoners. No comments about that from the NAACP

Denny1973's picture

Its about time we got a

By Denny1973, unverified — Sat, 01/15/2011 - 07:45

Its about time we got a elected official like Governor Lepage , who doesn't use editorials and opinions and political corectness to be his compass as he governs. As long as he continues to do his job he can tell all the whiners to kiss his butt as far as I'm concerned.

RSaint66's picture
verified

LePage is just brainless

By Rodd St.Pierre, verified user — Sat, 01/15/2011 - 06:35

Maine voters got hoodwinked by this guy. Get ready to fall off the map, Maine.

verified

What a class act we now have for a Governor

By Mary Hilton, verified user — Sat, 01/15/2011 - 06:27

I fear that this is the start of the pattern where he opens his mouth and makes all of us in this state look like fools. Only those who voted for him are, but that doesn't matter-he got elected Governor.
Just what we need to attract new businesses, people, ideas and jobs in this state. A man who can't think before he opens his mouth and makes it obvious that he intends to make his special mark by offending everyone in sight.
Yes, indeed. Stay classy-really impress the entire world. I winced when I saw the headline, and I'm preparing to do a lot of that in the coming years.
Makes me think of moving to another state, where they don't have public officials who are quite so belligerent and antagonistic towards everyone they don't agree with in public.

yaankeesuk's picture

finally a governor for the people

By yaankeesuk, unverified — Sat, 01/15/2011 - 06:11

awesome , I wish I could say I voted for him ,

to be or not's picture

GOOD FOR HIM

By to be or not, unverified — Sat, 01/15/2011 - 05:19

ENOUGH IS ENOUGH WHY THERE ARE JUST AS MANY POOR WHITE PEOPLE AS BLACKS /LATINOS/AND MORE .THE RACE GAME SHOULD BE OVER THIS IS AMERICA 2011!!!!!!!!!!

angelsx34eva's picture

FatandHappy....

By angelsx34eva, unverified — Sat, 01/15/2011 - 02:07

Name calling and insults get no one anywhere....I don't like using the term "racist" although I do agree it exists...Your explanation on why the UNCF exists today, I suppose you could call it racist as there is not a "Caucasian College Fund" that exists...My comment was not about him meeting with the NAACP, it was about him meeting with the "African American Population" at our State Prison...if they are considered a part of the NAACP....then, yes I do agree that the Governor can turn down requests from these "Special Interest Groups"...he has proven that...I have to say though that the population of African Americans at our State Prison, in my opinion, don't have the resources available to them to be part of the NAACP...having said that, they have requested a meeting with the Governor, like I said before, because perhaps the issues they may be having with the "Caucasian Population" at the State Prison are personal and they don't want to express there issues in front of them...The Governor of any State represents every citizen of the State they Govern...from the baby that's being born right now...to the 106 year old that is still alive today...No, the Governor doesn't have to meet with every person that requests a meeting with him...that would be impossible....BUT if he can take the time to meet with the whole State Prison population, why can't he make the time to meet with the African Americans there?....It just seems that for some reason he is not taking the time to meet with any African Americans lately and this bothers me...and BTW...I am white...I just don't understand it, that's all...and I feel sorry for the African American population in our State of Maine if this is the stand the Governor is going to take by turning down all offers from them....so far, to date...

irishwasherwoman's picture
verified

Far reaching comments

By Mary-Margaret Anthoine Ney, verified user — Sat, 01/15/2011 - 02:02

Google "kiss my butt" and see how widely this story has been reported. One of Mr. LePage's goals is to create jobs in Maine. If I were a CEO of a corporation being courted to open a business in Maine, I'd think twice about having to deal with an administration represented by this man.

angelsx34eva's picture

jpat...

By angelsx34eva, unverified — Sat, 01/15/2011 - 00:22

Thank you for enlightening me on the State Trooper's passing....

jpat's picture

State Trooper

By jpat, unverified — Sat, 01/15/2011 - 00:07

Here is the trooper's obit...
http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/mainetoday-kennebecjournal/obituary.asp...

jasonp's picture
verified

thanks

By Simon Diaz, verified user — Sat, 01/15/2011 - 09:33

THANKS JPAT, YOU'RE THE BEST!!

RedWhiteBlue's picture

THANK YOU Gov. Lepage

By RedWhiteBlue, unverified — Sat, 01/15/2011 - 00:03

You've got to like this guy more and more each day.

The Governor has no business being around special interests groups that only promote THEMSELVES and a political agenda.

Thank you Mr. Lepage

angelsx34eva's picture

FatandHappy...

By angelsx34eva, unverified — Fri, 01/14/2011 - 22:55

I see your posts and have a feeling that you are quite committed to the way you feel..I can respect that as I respect most of your posts...In one of your posts you mention a "What American College Fund"....could you explain to me why it's okay to have a "United Negro College Fund?"...."Special Interest Groups" have been around forever...and there not going away...Sorry...I meant "Caucasian Fund".....Too tired...lol...to go back and correct that...The Governor of any State has an obligation to meet with all people of the State in which they Govern...He or She cannot ignore these people...That would not be right...And to make those comments on TV and be laughing about it at the same time is not acceptable...This is my opinion...and there will always be people that do not agree with me...I accept that...What the Governor needs to accept is the Oath of Office that he took...and so far...not so good....and I have not heard of any State Trooper in our State of Maine being killed, deceased, or passing away....His excuses do not add up...The African Americans would like to meet with him at our State Prison...he refuses to go but says he will go and meet with all prisoners there..Maybe the African Americans there have issues that they are not comfortable talking about with the Caucasians that are there..."So many hours in the day our Governor says...so many days in a week"...yet he has the time to take to "approve" every thing on paper that leaves the Blaine House?....Doesn't make sense to me...And to the people that make fun of his "not missing a meal"...I have said before that making fun of one's weight is also unexceptable to say about anyone.....I have a feeling that things are only going to get worse in the Blaine House...and to me that is scarey...I respect everyone's comments here..We all have our own opinions...But really...to start off the way our Governor has is very confusing at best..especially to the Youth of our State...He wants to make it so the Youth of our State stay here, yet his children all go out of State for college...am I missing something here?....Can someone explain to me and to the Youth of our State what the h@ll is going on at the Blaine House?....First his complaints was the "Oatmeal" being served to him at breakfast...What is up with that?.....I have never in my life heard any politician complain about the food being served to them...Yes, this comment I am making is even getting confusing to me....Sorry in advance to the readers if I am confusing you....Can someone set me straight here?

fatandhappy's picture

Hey Angel

By fatandhappy, unverified — Sat, 01/15/2011 - 00:50

I have to compliment you here. Although we disagree for the most part, I do enjoy your well thought out. common sense form of reasoning. It's refreshing to hear a rational explanation of someone's views than just the usual name calling and insults.

As I said before, I agree with the Governor's stance on this issue, but I believe he could have be more diplomatic about it.

The United Negro College Fund was started about 100 years ago to help African-American people get a college education. At that time, the fund was sorely needed because there were no Pell Grants and student loans. It helped many to get an education that otherwise wouldn't.

But today, we have all kinds of college funding available for everyone. The poorer you are today, the easier it is to go to college. And these federal funds are available to everyone regardless of race. African-American students don't need the UNCF to go to college anymore. So, today, the UNCF is outdated, unneeded and frankly racist. By racist I mean that all of the federal funding is available to everyone, but the UNCF is only available to blacks. Doesn't that make it racist?

As far as what you said about the NAACP having a "right" to see the governor.......I don't think anybody can demand an audience with the Gov and automatically get it. Is there a law that says the Gov has to see everybody? I don't think so. They have no right. Now, the Gov may later grant them the "privilege", but it is not a right by any means.

fatandhappy's picture

Hey Angel

By fatandhappy, unverified — Sat, 01/15/2011 - 00:46

I have to compliment you here. Although we disagree for the most part, I do enjoy your well thought out. common sense form of reasoning. It's refreshing to hear a rational explanation of someone's views than just the usual name calling and insults.

As I said before, I agree with the Governor's stance on this issue, but I believe he could have be more diplomatic about it.

The United Negro College Fund was started about 100 years ago to help African-American people get a college education. At that time, the fund was sorely needed because there were no Pell Grants and student loans. It helped many to get an education that otherwise wouldn't.

But today, we have all kinds of college funding available for everyone. The poorer you are today, the easier it is to go to college. And these federal funds are available to everyone regardless of race. African-American students don't need the UNCF to go to college anymore. So, today, the UNCF is outdated, unneeded and frankly racist. By racist I mean that all of the federal funding is available to everyone, but the UNCF is only available to blacks. Doesn't that make it racist?

As far as what you said about the NAACP having a "right" to see the governor.......I don't think anybody can demand an audience with the Gov and automatically get it. Is there a law that says the Gov has to see everybody? I don't think so. They have no right. Now, the Gov may later grant them the "privilege", but it is not a right by any means.

Blue Eyes's picture
verified

It's all fine and good if he

By Audrey Alcala, verified user — Fri, 01/14/2011 - 22:43

It's all fine and good if he doesn't want to attend the NAACP event....but to publicly tell them to "Kiss my butt!!"...pleaseeeeeeeeee!!! I don't think I have ever been more embarrassed to be a Mainer!! Every state in the USA must be having a good laugh about us now....great job Govenor! Very impressive....you're supposed to be a role model...running our state........geesh!!

jmyoung's picture
verified

You can punch, "disagree".

By Jerome Young, verified user — Fri, 01/14/2011 - 22:37

You can punch, "disagree". But, this is about MLK Day. You can't answer the question? Why not? Where are you LaFlamme? It's funny, I Doubt you will even be able to google it. This publication did NOT endorse Paul. So, by tone, intent, emphasis, they wait like a jaguar waiting to pounce. The NAACP in the fifties and sixties was a true advocate in terms of civil rights, they were the legal arm for MLK, Rosa Parks, et al.. Now NAACP has become a money machine for the DNC. Like Bates College, they are coasting on past glory. By attending a NAACP "celebration" for MLK, Gov LePage will endorse them by being there. Period. In DIRECT contravention of what MLK taught all of us.
Last year, LePage was speaking to a group of fisherman and women in Brooks. Factory ships, Russian, Japanese, for YEARS, as far back as 1996. (I know I used to watch these floating cities, standing on the beach in Cape Ellis) were scraping gouging our fish stocks including LOBSTAH. This group of nine and tenth generation fisherman expressed themselves. They had for those hundreds of years KNEW how to preserve their fishery's. The federal gov't deployed their pseudo scientists, and BLAMED the locals. Rather than point to an international issue. So Paul said, "I d tell OBama to go to Hell, which was the ONLY part published. So, in this instance, what did the NAACP say, exactly, not edited, to Paul to elicit that reponse. Did they call him a racist? Directly? Or by inference? That s the only reason Paul would say such a thing. And you know, I would too.
Incidentally, the greatest minds ever produced in America, in my opinion were, Ralph Waldo Emerson, Abraham Lincoln, George Whitfield. Frederick Douglas, and MLK Jr. Martin Luther king Jr. was an accomplished SCHOLAR. He had a PHD at 23 yrs old. Leading the Civil Right movement was an accident of history. Did you notice two out of the five were African-Americans? I bet Paul thinks the same thing, and would NOT disgrace MLK Jr's memory by meeting with the facsimile of what once was the NAACP.

Madeleine's picture

Governor Lepage, stop embarrassing the State of Maine!

By Madeleine, unverified — Fri, 01/14/2011 - 22:01

Governor Lapage puts the a-- in class. The sad part is, he really thinks that most of the state has the same mentality as he has...and for those who disagree with his crassness, he could careless. He has us broken down into two groups...The asinine and The insignificant. He of course is the Grand Poopah of all...What an embarrassing moment for the state of Maine.

mainebob's picture

ole bacon butt

By mainebob, unverified — Fri, 01/14/2011 - 21:57

Looks like ole bacon butt is at it again. If we can just hang on 4 years . Just think of it as Maines Dark ages and that it will get better.

Pirate's picture
verified

You mean just like we should

By Paul St. Jean, verified user — Sat, 01/15/2011 - 11:47

You mean just like we should think of oBAMa's 4 years as America's Dark ages and it will get better? Same thing; grander scale.

jmyoung's picture
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I always read these sorts of

By Jerome Young, verified user — Fri, 01/14/2011 - 20:54

I always read these sorts of articles with a "grain of salt". This runs along the "i'd tell O'Bama to go to hell," deal. What did these people (NAACP) actually say to Paul? It must have been different than what has been reported to make him respond like that. Sounds like they"inferred" and maybe actually said that he was a racist by not endorsing their PAC by being there. But.... "not actually saying anything" is the liberal way, its always by inference.. The Gov is a pretty gracious guy, most of the time, until you tick him off, then he's gonna let you have it. And, what ARE "the worst aspects of Maine History". That we were the last stop of the underground railroad? And, unless I am ,mistaken, I don't think there were ever slaves in Maine. If there were, it was an anomaly not the norm. So....they ticked Paul off, he blasted them, now they are the victims of such aawefull guy. This is wonderfull, isn't that their busines? Being professional victims? Trivia Question: What american historical figure jumped out a second story window when he was 9 yrs old. after his grandmother died? I bet you can't answer LaFlamme.

jakbird's picture
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Paul LePage

By Jean Domaingue, verified user — Fri, 01/14/2011 - 20:36

We have a governor that only a third of the voting constituency supported, which is a very small percentage of the population in Maine. And now, we are stuck with a crass, abrasive individual as our governor. One who speaks, in public, like a teenager. One who doesn't have the guts to attend debates. I am mortified that this man is our governor and that the nation will look askance at our great state. I beg that his abhorent behavior does not reflect on those of us who knnow right from wrong and are committed to the good of all.

Jake's picture
verified

Kissin' his fat butt

By Jack Kaubris, verified user — Fri, 01/14/2011 - 20:24

Minnesota survived Jesse Ventura just fine and I suspect that we will survive Lepage as well. Is he going to tell the Franco-American groups to kiss his butt, or the Italian-American groups, or any of the other special interest ethnic groups? I sure hope so. This is going to be a fun ride through the mud during this administration. By and large I do feel that the electorate gets what it deserves..and by electing this eloquent shmuck, we are getting what we deserve. These comments will do wonders for any national corporations looking to invest in Maine.

Pirate's picture
verified

"By and large I do feel that

By Paul St. Jean, verified user — Sat, 01/15/2011 - 11:43

"By and large I do feel that the electorate gets what it deserves"....Precisely, Jake...Look how well the country's doing. The electorate wanted the cool jive talking black man and they got him. I'll bet they weren't planning on 9.7% unemployment, though.

Randaller's picture

Hi fatandhappy

By Randaller, unverified — Fri, 01/14/2011 - 20:14

The NAACP needs to stop? Injustice against race STILL happens in today's society. Civil Rights groups do still need to be around, because hate and racism will always exist. The NAACP helps to support not only African Americans but many other minorities. As long as racism exists, Civil Rights groups need to be around. I respect your opinion but saying the NAACP doesn't have much of place in today's society is being blind to the racism going on in the world.

fatandhappy's picture

What racism?

By fatandhappy, unverified — Fri, 01/14/2011 - 20:35

Ok Randaller, show me one instance in the last 5 years where people were the victims of prejudice, AND there was not already legal remedies in place to correct it. And if you can name that one, then tell me if the legal remedies were ignored, or if they were applied as the law allows?

We have all of the racist, prejudice issues covered over and over by laws. What else can the NAACP do? They are a money pit for their leaders, that's all.

Can you name one instance of an idividual's rights being violated because they were black in the last 5 years?

Pudentilla's picture

an instance of an individual's rights being violated because he

By Pudentilla, unverified — Fri, 01/14/2011 - 22:59

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CZlZFZhZMVg

fatandhappy's picture

Hate crime

By fatandhappy, unverified — Sat, 01/15/2011 - 00:23

I watched the video and this is exactly what I am talking about. What happened to the young man is already a crime, maybe a hate crime, and he will get his remedy in court sooner or later. How could the NAACP have prevented this crime? What can they do now since the legal process is already started? How could the NAACP benefit this young man in any way?

We have equal protection laws in place. The NAACP is outdated and worthless at this point in time.

The law will handle this properly and they don't need the help of the NAACP

Steve Bulger formerly mainexile's picture
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I may not always agree with him,

By Steve Bulger, verified user — Fri, 01/14/2011 - 20:00

but any day of the week I'll take a politician who doesn't speak out of both sides of his mouth depending on which audience he's addressing. At least we know where he stands even if it's not where you stand.

Barb's picture

I totally love this guy

By Barb, unverified — Fri, 01/14/2011 - 19:31

I totally love this guy especially when he gets all the liberal'ss panties in a wad. Maine has finally got someone with a backbone. Way to go governor.

mrnpchick's picture
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I believe that the past white

By Ed Enos, verified user — Fri, 01/14/2011 - 19:28

I believe that the past white governors attending these gatherings were doing so simply for political reasons only. While I agree Lepage should use more proper language, I like the directness of his comments and fully believe the NAACP is nothing more than a lobby. It is surely a different kind of politics in Maine. Maybe is will be effective, not like the last 8 yrs.

djsparky's picture
verified

When Obama goes on Fox and stops insulting cops

By Ken Jellison, verified user — Fri, 01/14/2011 - 19:22

I give the gov a pass on this one. How much money has the NCAAP given to republicans? They do cater to dems. I also think it's about time we got the politically correct and wimps out of office.

jasonp's picture
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funeral of a state trooper

By Simon Diaz, verified user — Fri, 01/14/2011 - 19:21

anybody knows who was the State Trooper and what happened??

armorin's picture
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I couldn't be more proud.

By Tony Morin, verified user — Fri, 01/14/2011 - 19:21

I couldn't be more proud. Jackwagon. Please, please don't make the national news.

armorin's picture
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I couldn't be more proud.

By Tony Morin, verified user — Fri, 01/14/2011 - 19:21

I couldn't be more proud. Jackwagon. Please, please don't make the national news.

djsparky's picture
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When Obama goes on Fox and stops insulting cops

By Ken Jellison, verified user — Fri, 01/14/2011 - 19:18

I give the gov a pass on this one. How much money has the NCAAP given to republicans? They do cater to dems. I also think it's about time we got the politically correct and wimps out of office.

Quicknote's picture

Around the nation...

By Quicknote, unverified — Fri, 01/14/2011 - 19:05

This coarse and demeaning remark will be the shot heard round the nation from Maine.

TownClown's picture

You go, Mr. Governor...and

By TownClown, unverified — Fri, 01/14/2011 - 18:34

You go, Mr. Governor...and don't let them suck you in!

TownClown's picture

You go, Mr. Governor...and

By TownClown, unverified — Fri, 01/14/2011 - 18:33

You go, Mr. Governor...and don't let them suck you in!

TownClown's picture

You go, Mr. Governor...and

By TownClown, unverified — Fri, 01/14/2011 - 18:33

You go, Mr. Governor...and don't let them suck you in!

joe public's picture

After Feb1st Ill bet

By joe public, unverified — Fri, 01/14/2011 - 18:10

After Feb1st Ill bet all...... ok 99.9% of all the post would have been against Our Govenor ! I think he is crude but there is no mistaking what he said he was not going and everyone had to make a big deal of it !Let it go ! I do believe it is finally nice to hear someone not speak with aforked tongue!

mainebob's picture

confused

By mainebob, unverified — Fri, 01/14/2011 - 17:57

I think Lepage thinks his inauguration was a coronation .

koalalover's picture

LOL!

By koalalover, unverified — Fri, 01/14/2011 - 23:41

LOL!

veritas's picture
verified

"LePage thinks?"

By Ronald Riml, verified user — Fri, 01/14/2011 - 18:59

Au contraire!!

Merelyfreshmen's picture

Where is his professionalism?

By Merelyfreshmen, unverified — Fri, 01/14/2011 - 17:45

I feel like this is only the beginning of seeing remarks like this from Governor LePage. Some people praise him for being so bold with his words, but as a governor that represents the people there is a bit of professionalism that is required. LePage has continually showed he is not a professional, and comes across as uneducated and strongly opinionated. He turns off people when he makes such bold remarks like these and that should trouble him. He needs to think before he speaks and be a professional.

Randaller's picture

And another thing...

By Randaller, unverified — Fri, 01/14/2011 - 17:34

LePage should work to make sure he does not offend large groups of people that already have bad views of the state, as far as race goes, because they can add more jobs, and after all, that IS what he wanted isn't it?....

Randaller's picture

I'm biracial too

By Randaller, unverified — Fri, 01/14/2011 - 17:31

I am also a biracial Mainer, HOWEVER these comments are ridiculous. LePage has NEVER known how to speak in public. While angry Mainers probably like his "enthusiasm", the WAY in which he responded the NAACP could have been MUCH better. He could have said in a much more appropriate way that he had other engagements and needed to attend to those. Just because he has a black son does not make him any less ignorant or any less hurtful. Either way, he should not be dragging his son into this discussion anyway. LePage represents not only himself, but other Mainer's when he makes statements to interest groups. If a Republican group had asked him to join them, his answer might have been different. While I identify as neither black or white I cannot imagine ever saying something like "run the NAACP out of Maine". The only special interest groups that shouldn't be around in Maine are those that offer nothing to the state and are hate driven. Those that offer security and sense of community and who work to get their message out peacefully, have the right to be here, no matter how much someone may "disagree" with them.

fatandhappy's picture

Hi Randaller

By fatandhappy, unverified — Fri, 01/14/2011 - 18:01

I do agree with your comment about how LePage could have said it more appropriately. I do agree with his stance, but he could have been nicer about it.

But your comment "The only special interest groups that shouldn't be around in Maine are those that offer nothing to the state and are hate driven.", even though I do agree with your criteria for special interests in Maine, I disagree that the NAACP meets this criteria. !00 years ago, and all the way up through the 1970's, the NAACP did great good for this country. But now it is not needed. Everyone has equal protection under the law no matter what race they are. We can live and go to school anywhere. We can't be turned down for a job based on race, and we can vote and run for any office we wish. To keep pushing just keeps the hate alive from 40 years ago.

Today the NAACP only makes the racial gap wider by keeping alive the hate and prejudice of the Civil Rights movement. Today, it is not about rights....everybody has thoses.....today it is about money, and forever having an attitude of entitlement. No matter how much is given to them, they will always demand more, and claim that white people are racists if they don't cough it up. They don't keep fighting because they have bonafide civil rights issues, they just keep all of this sitrred up for the money it generates.....and their name in the media, of course.

Today, the needs of an average black family are exactly the same as for an average white family, or Asian, Hispanic, whatever. The Civil Rights movement won it's cause a long time ago. It's time for the NAACP to accept that and stop fighting. I don't believe there is a need for them any longer, especially here in Maine.

verified

No there not

By Joseph Ziehm, verified user — Sun, 01/16/2011 - 10:05

Under what information do you derive that form is it stated in APA format or is simply a statistic kept to yourself? I think Fat and Happy is the epitome of racism to the bitter end. So, do we forget the hatred and sweep it up under a Victorian era blanket while depriving others of rights through long standing political self-promotion? We cannot go to school just anywhere that requires vouchers, scholarships, finical assistance; but just keep wearing those conservative colored glasses there Fat or better yet tell the white outfit pushing drugs through the reservations to do what they have always done. Cut them deals and hand the Indian population the harshest sentencing imaginable. I think the fight is long from over with a Victorian era mindset which you through around.

fatandhappy's picture

Joe, sir

By fatandhappy, unverified — Sun, 01/16/2011 - 13:50

Your idealistic narration needs a dose of reality.

What schools are blacks barred from?
What scholarships or financial aid is not available to blacks?
And who are you accusing of pushing drugs on reservations?

Have you ever been to a reservation? I have lived in the Cherokee Nation in Oklahoma, and I am unaware of any conspiracy to distribute drugs among the inhabitants of the Nation. If you know of such an evil plot then you need to report it to the closest US Attorney or FBI.

Every civil rights issue that exists now has a legal remedy. Discrimination of any form is now illegal. If someone is discriminated against they can file suits or file charges and receive justice. Antiquated civil rights organizations like the NAACP are no longer needed.

"Epitome of racism"? That is an outright lie. Since I am part black it would make me prejudiced against my own family. But as usual, a liberal uses some sort of derogatory name instead of facts to "try" to debate a conservative.

verified

Right....

By Joseph Ziehm, verified user — Sun, 01/16/2011 - 21:04

So, then by claiming biracial it is okay then to deny a commonwealth support network to be broken apart in favor of protections and that it promotes hate? If you call me a liberal then that's going to be really funny because I've been on reservations before and the folks there are really nice. That knowledge comes from reading TIME and investigating numerous cartels and how they spread it out. Civil rights is not antiquated nor is the NAACP; so then in theoretical practices then if a family member belongs to the NAACP you feel a bias toward them correct with the above line in paragraph two cited for references correct? Suits and charges do not always work at times sometimes it is the mere spread of information I sure felt protected when I got sprayed in the face with keyboard cleaner and got chemical burns in my eyes and everyone walked on it and only had federal questioning I felt really protected thank you Radio Shack and the Federal Justice System. Though I do credit Radio Shack for teaching me one thing the hard way working to nail employees who funneled commissions was fun; the other fun part was that our servers could be hacked much the same as in NY with Anna Chapman most of that transaction was conducted on a server and computer which allowed for an illegal sale to an illegal address. That theory psychologically fits though that you would feel a bias due to the information you presented.

George Blanker's picture

LePage tells NAACP

By George Blanker, unverified — Fri, 01/14/2011 - 17:05

Great! I'm sitting here watching national news and across the bottom I read--Maine governor tells NAACP to kiss his butt!!! Way to go Governor. Like someone else said earlier, this should help attract future business and or vacationers to Maine!!!! Whatever else you had to do you could have used your brain and not responded with such a foolish answer. I'm ashamed and our state should be too!!

staff

Write me

By Mark LaFlamme, verified user — Fri, 01/14/2011 - 17:02

Hey, people. I'm writing a sidebar piece on this matter. If any of you want to go public with your comments, feel free to drop me a line at mlaflamme@sunjournal.com

jasonp's picture
verified

hello Mark

By Simon Diaz, verified user — Fri, 01/14/2011 - 22:46

I've been trying to find out who's the Trooper whose funeral he's attending. can you shed some light on this please??? have a nice weekend!!

veritas's picture
verified

Boss Cochon strikes me as an Equal Opportunity Idiot, Mark

By Ronald Riml, verified user — Fri, 01/14/2011 - 18:56

armorin's picture
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Hilarious.

By Tony Morin, verified user — Fri, 01/14/2011 - 19:23

I'd rather listen to a three hour speech my Mayor Menino, than listen to LePage for five minutes.

armorin's picture
verified

Mardens Lady

By Tony Morin, verified user — Fri, 01/14/2011 - 20:34

He should have that lady that does the Mardens commercials for him do his public speaking. That would be a great improvement. "We're ain't goin' to no NAACP event deah!' Ain't that cunnin'!"

fatandhappy's picture

Hey LaFlamme

By fatandhappy, unverified — Fri, 01/14/2011 - 17:18

I've read your stories, and i don't want my name associated with your spin.

RSaint66's picture
verified

And I've read your posts and

By Rodd St.Pierre, verified user — Sat, 01/15/2011 - 06:43

... don't care to meet such a closed minded bigot such as you. Kiss MY butt.

Angel's picture

And the 'poop' just gets

By Angel, unverified — Fri, 01/14/2011 - 16:52

And the 'poop' just gets deeper and deeper...pull those hip boots on cause it has just begun...

ronh66's picture
verified

He already has plans...

By Ron Hubbard, verified user — Fri, 01/14/2011 - 16:23

He is attending the funeral of a Maine State Trooper that has served the state of Maine.I find that a more important place for him to be.The NAACP is always looking for something to cry racist about...

Lil's picture
verified

food

By Mark Wrenn, verified user — Fri, 01/14/2011 - 16:21

"LePage attended "most, if not all" of the MLK breakfasts held at the center in the past eight years" Well, there you go. Food was involved, and it doesn't look like he turns down many meals.

Pirate's picture
verified

Probably got tired of grits

By Paul St. Jean, verified user — Sat, 01/15/2011 - 11:30

Probably got tired of grits and red eye gravy.

tron's picture

such racist commentary is

By tron, unverified — Sat, 01/15/2011 - 12:01

such racist commentary is inappropiate, but not surprising coming from you.

Lil's picture
verified

defense

By Mark Wrenn, verified user — Fri, 01/14/2011 - 16:09

"My son happens to be black" Ah, yes. The ole "I know a black guy" defense. Well played, Guvna.

veritas's picture
verified

Are we 'Birthers' if we ask to see the 'Adoption Papers?"

By Ronald Riml, verified user — Sat, 01/15/2011 - 10:29

"This is no longer a Democratic State- Your papers, Please..."

gdls1's picture

What crass and juvenile

By gdls1, unverified — Fri, 01/14/2011 - 16:09

What crass and juvenile pugnacity from the office of governor. It's embarrassing and it's disgusting.

Pirate's picture
verified

Ever hear Jesse Ventura talk

By Paul St. Jean, verified user — Sat, 01/15/2011 - 11:28

Ever hear Jesse Ventura talk when he was governor of Minnesota? Maybe not quite as to the point as LePage, but he was trying.

irishwasherwoman's picture
verified

Beyond disappointment

By Mary-Margaret Anthoine Ney, verified user — Fri, 01/14/2011 - 15:59

This is just beyond comprehension.

Publikwerks's picture

Well, there is certainly plenty to kiss.

By Publikwerks, unverified — Fri, 01/14/2011 - 15:54

Well, Fat Jesus once again shows he can turn down a meal.

What, I'm being mean and classless? I though I was straight talkin.

Pirate's picture
verified

Unlike you to drop down in

By Paul St. Jean, verified user — Sat, 01/15/2011 - 11:25

Unlike you to drop down in class in your posts. Parrot's pretty disappointed. 0O:-)

Jason's picture
verified

That is a fair comment.

By Jason Theriault, verified user — Sat, 01/15/2011 - 13:10

I want to retract my post. Reading that he said "Kiss my butt" pissed me off, as I don't want a "plain speaking" governor if it means he gonna be a jerk. I also though being a jerk would illustrate how being a jerk was not they way to discuss this.

However, I heard the comment in context, and it wasn't that bad. So I retract my personal attack and apologize.

Jason's picture
verified

Woops

By Jason Theriault, verified user — Sat, 01/15/2011 - 13:13

And know you know I'm publikwerks

Jason's picture
verified

..and once again people are disagreeing with facts

By Jason Theriault, verified user — Sat, 01/15/2011 - 22:52

Seriously, I am Publikwerks

Publikwerks's picture

...and I am Jason

By Publikwerks, unverified — Sat, 01/15/2011 - 22:54

Just because I'm posting under Publikwerks doesn't mean I'm not Jason

Claire2323's picture
verified

Kiss my butt

By Claire Gamache, verified user — Fri, 01/14/2011 - 15:45

Someone needs to remind Governor Lepage that 38% of the electorate elected him and that 62% did not vote for him. When a politician campaigns he should please his followers but when he governs he should govern for everybody. He claims not to associate with special interests but I doubt the executives from Wellppoint, or Maine Med or the folks from the Heritage Foundation would have a problem getting his time and attention. As for his son I wonder if he is there to kiss his butt too.

melibusa's picture
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Reply to Claire2323

By Sewell Colby, verified user — Fri, 01/14/2011 - 20:18

Yes, Governor LePage "only" got 38% of the vote, however it was the largest percentage of any candidate running for governor. As unusual as some of his comments are, we surely know where he stands. ' Special' interests have played a large part in the mess the State of Maine is now in. Until now on one was willing to stand up to them. Except for those who oppose straight talk, it might be refreshing. LOL!

George Blanker's picture

We Need Them

By George Blanker, unverified — Fri, 01/14/2011 - 15:27

We need special interest groups. What we don't need is a Governor that is so short, small on language, and thoughts, that he resorts to this. I see that maybe his reasons for not attending these events are legit. This attitude he keeps on showing, shows me that this state is in for some real problems before this man is through. I have a feeling he is going to make some deep, real, long lasting changes here in Maine, but afraid most will turn into big problems in our future. As I don't see this guy being smart enough to make the right choices.

Lil's picture
verified

special interests

By Mark Wrenn, verified user — Fri, 01/14/2011 - 14:47

Unless you're an old doughy white guy, you're a special interest.

fatandhappy's picture

How bout just "American"

By fatandhappy, unverified — Fri, 01/14/2011 - 14:54

"American" includes all of us and is not a special interest group. But when you break it down to only segments of the population then you have special interest groups.

"Old doughy white guys" would be a special interest group.

Pirate's picture
verified

Also, if you'd made that

By Paul St. Jean, verified user — Sat, 01/15/2011 - 11:22

Also, if you'd made that comment, F&H, you'd be called racist or bigot.

Chad Levasseur's picture
verified

Spin it all you want

By Chad Levasseur, verified user — Fri, 01/14/2011 - 14:44

Give me a break! Lepage isn't putting up with any group with special interests and YES, the NAACP IS a special interest group. Can anyone explain to me why it matters if his son is a US resident or not? If your "offended" because the Governor doesn't play every single politically correct card as he should in your eyes, than accept that EVERYONE has a right to free speech no matter the office they hold or not. We are the people that put others on pedistals. If you choose to put the Governor on a pedistal with the expectation that he will fall off, than in your eyes that is exactly what will happen.

I for one agree with the Governor. Good for you Governor Lepage for doing exactly what you told us you would do.

veritas's picture
verified

So the Republican Party isn't a Special Interest Group??

By Ronald Riml, verified user — Fri, 01/14/2011 - 22:42

When pigs fly......

Pirate's picture
verified

Two sides to that, aren't

By Paul St. Jean, verified user — Sat, 01/15/2011 - 11:20

Two sides to that, aren't there, V? Both parties are special interest groups in that context. Can't be one without the other.

veritas's picture
verified

Let's examine the Guv'nors quote:

By Ronald Riml, verified user — Sat, 01/15/2011 - 21:28

"They are a special interest. End of story ... and I'm not going to be held hostage by special interests."

So can we expect him to treat ALL "Special Interests" with impunity and contempt?

Watch and see - I bet he doesn't.

prand27's picture
verified

If

By Phyllis Rand, verified user — Fri, 01/14/2011 - 15:20

I would agree with you if he was still a private citizen. He is an elected official and the "pedestal" is the expectation that he will put his best foot forward in representing all of Maine's citizens. Yes, there are those who nit-pick everything he says and does but I'm not talking about them. There are fringe elements on both ends of the spectrum. LePage doesn't think before he speaks, and for someone whose main goal is to bring business to Maine, he's going to stick his foot so far down his throat if he doesn't cool it that businesses aren't going to want to be associated with Maine. I'm not saying that will happen with this current situation, but if his people don't talk to him soon, his "off the cuff" comments are only going to get worse and none of us will be any better off than we are now, economically.

scottie's picture
verified

tell it like it is

By Scott Pare, verified user — Fri, 01/14/2011 - 14:42

Special interest group crying because the governor won't go to their event. I did not vote for LePage but I gotta love his candid, exactly correct response. That being said, this only works if he does it to all special interest groups, including any groups that may have helped him get into office.

Pirate's picture
verified

Good point, scottie. He had

By Paul St. Jean, verified user — Sat, 01/15/2011 - 11:16

Good point, scottie. He had better be consistent in the stance he has taken. The first time he slips up, the left will bury him. I still believe that "No thanks, I have other commitments" would have been a hell of a lot more effective. But, we'll just have to wait and see. Hopefully, he won't make himself and Maine become a national laughing stock, although the previous adiministration (years) did a pretty good job of fulfilling the latter.

dlaurels's picture
verified

Tell me how

By Doreen Sheive, verified user — Fri, 01/14/2011 - 14:40

How does this man think he is going to get anywhere with this kind of behavior. Plus, since when are people a special interest group -- what an insult. Also, it would be nice if LePage would get his facts right -- this young man is not his son. He is not a citizen of the United States. Now, they claim they are going to adopt him, however, why have they waited all these years before they adopt him?

fatandhappy's picture

Look what you just wrote, dlaurels

By fatandhappy, unverified — Fri, 01/14/2011 - 14:51

"Plus, since when are people a special interest group "

Well, dlaurels, when they represent only a small portion of the people in this country and not all of us......that makes them a special interest group.

douel529's picture
verified

small portion?

By Lynn Ouellette, verified user — Fri, 01/14/2011 - 18:54

"WCSH6 is reporting that the governor explained why he did not plan to attend the events hosted by the NAACP while at a meeting for business leaders in Sanford."

Would this group of "business leaders" be a special interest group?

fatandhappy's picture

That's simple

By fatandhappy, unverified — Fri, 01/14/2011 - 19:19

The NAACP isn't going to invest in more jobs in Maine.....these business leaders might.

There is nothing the NAACP can do to improve life here in Maine, but the people with the money to provide jobs can do much to improve our lives.

fatandhappy's picture

Good for you Gov LePage

By fatandhappy, unverified — Fri, 01/14/2011 - 14:28

I am part black, and I wouldn't attend any NAACP event either.

Look, we are past the slave days. Further special treatment and appropriations for blacks are not needed. In fact, they have received so much that now their demands border on extortion.

We will never be able to give the NAACP enough, they will always want to milk us for more.

What would happen if we had a "Miss White America Pageant", or a "United Caucasion College Fund"?

This has went on for over 150 years and it's time it stopped. It's time for every person, of every race to be accountable for themselves. All we are doing now is keeping race motivated shyster's like Loius Farakan and Jesse Jackson rich, they don't want racism to end, so they promote it......it keeps the cash flowing.

It's time for the cash to stop flowing and for groups like the NAACP to disappear into history.

Run em out of Maine Governor!

prand27's picture
verified

Opinion

By Phyllis Rand, verified user — Fri, 01/14/2011 - 15:01

My issue is how he says what he says. He is no longer a private citizen; he represents over 1 million people. What he said was a slap in the face to me, a Black citizen of Maine. I am not a "special interest," I am a Black Mainer, and have always been proud to be one. My governor just insulted my racial heritage. My governor. Just because he has a Black son, that does not give him a "pass" to insult an entire segment of society. He owes me an apology.

fatandhappy's picture

Prand, how did LePage insult your racial heritage?

By fatandhappy, unverified — Fri, 01/14/2011 - 17:09

Excuse me prand, nobody said that blacks were a special interest group. LePage said that the NAACP was a special interest group. Are you a part of the NAACP? If not, then he wasn't speaking of you. That's like saying that when someone insults the KKK that they are insulting all white people. No, they aren't, they are just insulting the idiot white people wearing the sheets.

I have a black heritage myself, but I am in no way part of the NAACP, so he didnt insult me at all.

AllarieLarsen's picture

NAACP = KKK?

By AllarieLarsen, unverified — Sat, 01/15/2011 - 13:15

fatandhappy I am stupefied by your comment and see that you are not verified so perhaps you are bi-racial but perhaps not.

fatandhappy's picture

Please don't try to create controversy where there is none

By fatandhappy, unverified — Sat, 01/15/2011 - 14:00

I never equated the NAACP with the KKK. You are lying by saying that I did. Or else you simply can't comprehend what you read. Which is it?

I used the KKK as an example of a very small group of white people that don't represent all white people. So if someone insults the KKK, they are not insulting white people as a whole, just that small group of idiots. Thus it would be wrong for all white people to feel insulted.

Same thing with NAACP. An insult towards them should not be taken as an insult against all black people.

I can't believe I had to explain this to you. Can you dress yourself?

fatandhappy's picture

Also Allarie Larson

By fatandhappy, unverified — Sat, 01/15/2011 - 14:16

The verification process does not include every minor detail about a person, so how do you propose to know a person's race unless they voluntarily provide it in their profile?

Yes, I am part black, not even half black, but enough that my family heritage affected me as I grew up in Arkansas. One of my gggrandfathers was owned by one of my other gggrandfathers. My family married both black and white people since then. You would just have to be brought up in the South to understand the ramifications of all of this.

This is a very sensitive issue to me and I dont appreciate being called a liar, or even questioned about the truth of it.

angelsx34eva's picture

Let the Games Begin...

By angelsx34eva, unverified — Fri, 01/14/2011 - 13:57

You have got to be kidding me...The Governor of any state is supposed to be a role model for our youth...Governor LePage "Is it okay that my 12 year old son gets asked to do something at school, doesn't want to do it, can he tell the teacher to kiss his butt?"..."I really need to know as my son has seen this video and wants to know why YOU can speak this way and he can't...This is not politics at its best....its not politics at all....a son from Jamaica, not a US citizen...mom & dad are both white...how did this happen?...I now see why he is playing "principle" at the Blaine House by having to "approve" everything in paper that leaves that place...This is not acceptable folks...Not at all....

calpec's picture
verified

Have you ever heard of Adoption?

By Callie Pecunies, verified user — Sat, 01/15/2011 - 11:48

I am in no way defending LePage because I think he's an idiot, but many people choose adoption from other countries, thus creating inter-racial families. And adoptions happen for all aged children, sometimes creating a situation where a child may not be able to gain citizenship. Your comment "a son from Jamaica, not a US citizen...mom & dad are both white...how did this happen?..." is just plain ignorant.

angelsx34eva's picture

calpec...

By angelsx34eva, unverified — Sat, 01/15/2011 - 12:51

I am not ignorant...I was asking a question...the way I was raised, a question I may have that is not asked would make me ignorant....

Pericles's picture

Fair enough

By Pericles, unverified — Sat, 01/15/2011 - 19:12

Fair enough. Unless, of course, the answer to the unasked question is common sense. Tanking ignorant as meaning lacking in knowledge instead of the misuse meaning rude, to not realize that many people adopt children from overseas in certainly ignorant

AllarieLarsen's picture

Here we go.....

By AllarieLarsen, unverified — Fri, 01/14/2011 - 13:42

Special interest my eye. And why isn't their son a US resident? This is just the beginning of years of embarrassing headlines and you can thank all those who voted him into office.

Pirate's picture
verified

Like we can thank those who

By Paul St. Jean, verified user — Sat, 01/15/2011 - 11:06

Like we can thank those who voted oBAMa into office.
oBAMa is making Jimmy Carter look good; LePage is making Jesse Ventura and Lester Maddox look like statesmen. Gonna be a long 4 years for ALL of us.

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