New York - Rush Limbaugh Responds To Abraham Foxman's Accusation |
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News Source: Rush Limbaugh
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Abe Foxman of the ADLNew York - Earlier this week, I posed a political question in the process and in the context of trying to help a friend and my audience understand the concept that people ask me about a lot: “Why are so many Jewish people liberal?” And a friend of mine—a good friend of mine, Norman Podhoretz—has written a book, an excellent book to explain it. Mr. Podhoretz is himself Jewish. He is the husband of Midge Decter and the father of John Podhoretz, and I know all of them very well and have socialized with them on a number of occasions, and in the process of… Let me just read you this. Podhoretz has written a response to Abraham Foxman of the Anti-Defamation League, who is demanding that I apologize for “borderline anti-Semitism.” Now, anybody who listens to this program even marginally knows that this program is and has consistently been one of the most outspoken supporters of the Jewish people and of Israel in particular.
And Mr. Foxman knows this as well. What I suspect is the usual thing that happened. Somebody took a few words that I said in a pretty long monologue, cut them up, and published them in a way to make it appear I said something that I didn’t say, and rather than check it out… And by now I would think anybody in the mainstream media or in any mainstream American endeavor, after 20 years of these types of attacks—me being taken out of context and every one of them being shown to be wrong, every one of these attacks being shown to be fallacious—I would think that by now some people would realize what’s going on. But I don’t think that they do. I think they want these attacks to be real. I think they want the out-of-context quotes to be real. It’s just like during this NFL controversy, when there were purely fabricated quotes of me that were plastered all over the American media: newspapers, websites, television.
The Reverend Jackson repeated them. They said that I supposedly supported slavery because it kept the streets safe at night and that I wanted a congressional medal given to the assassin of Dr. Martin Luther King. And people knew that I didn’t say it but they wanted to believe I’d said it, because they would love to get rid of me. Folks, the left has never been angrier at me than they are this week because of what I myself said this week only yesterday. Back when Obama was inaugurated, even prior to him being inaugurated, everybody was inside the celebrity bubble. “Oh, we must not criticize our brand-new president. He’s so young and he’s so historical. This means so much to America. We must hope and we must pray that he succeeds.” Well, I didn’t join any of that. I didn’t want him to succeed. I don’t want socialism in this country. I do not want the government running car companies, the banks, the student loan program.
I don’t want the government telling banks how they can and can’t operate. I don’t want Obama being everybody’s boss. I don’t want the government being able to hire and fire people and set salaries. That’s all happened. I don’t want that kind of thing. I wanted him to fail. I was the only person to say so, and that changed the political dynamic. It got rid of it. It burst the celebrity bubble that everybody was in treating Obama not as a politician but something much larger: “Transformational, postpartisan, postracial,” and now we know post-achievement: He hasn’t achieved anything. So this year has transpired and everything he’s fought for, the big things, have crashed and burned. And it all came to a culmination this week.
So the sheer hatred of me crystallized and compacted this week. You know, I totally understand people trying to damage me and my credibility so that I’m no longer a factor. The thing is when they do this they only amplify me and add to my supposed importance. But you don’t have to be anything other than a liberal to lie about me and attack me and so forth, and this is silly. This “borderline anti-Semitic” charge from the Anti-Defamation League is just silly, and here is what Mr. Podhoretz himself has written in response. He titled this: “It’s Not Rush Limbaugh Who Should Apologize—In my new book, ‘Why Are Jews Liberals?’, I argue that it no longer makes any sense for so many of my fellow Jews to go on aligning themselves with the forces of the Left.
“I also try to show that our interests and our ideals, both as Americans and as Jews, have come in recent decades to be better served by the forces of the Right. In the course of describing and agreeing with the book the other day, Rush Limbaugh cited a few of the numerous reasons for the widespread puzzlement over the persistence of liberalism within the American Jewish community. And while discussing those reasons, he pointed to the undeniable fact that for ‘a lot of people’—‘prejudiced people,’ as he called them twice—he was not referring to himself; he was referring to bigots, prejudiced people…” I was refer to Jew haters—and, Mr. Foxman, this is what’s been omitted from what you read that I said. I was alluding to what you know exists. You know that there are Jew haters out there and I know there are Jew haters out there, and many of them are in the Obama administration or in his circle of friends.
And Mr. Foxman, if you really want to go after anti-Semitism you should first start looking at it on the left and within the Obama administration and within his circle of friends, because that’s why you’re going to find it. You’re not going to find anti-Semitism on this radio show. You’re going to find nothing but love and respect and admiration for the Jewish people and an unwavering support for Israel that has not ever shaken. I was referring to the Jew haters, the bigots. Twice I referred to “prejudiced people.” Let me read the paragraph over here again: “And while discussing those reasons, he pointed to the undeniable fact that for ‘a lot of people’—‘prejudiced people,’ as he called them twice—he was not referring to himself; he was referring to bigots, prejudiced people the words ‘banker’ and ‘Wall Street’ are code words for ‘Jewish.’
“Was it possible, he wondered, that Obama’s attacks on bankers and Wall Street were triggering a certain amount of buyer’s remorse within the American Jewish community, which gave him 78% of its vote? Finally, taking off from my observation that many Jewish liberals like to call themselves independents,” this is Mr. Podhoretz speaking, “[Limbaugh] wondered whether a fair number of the self-described independents who deserted Obama and voted for Scott Brown might actually have been Jewish liberals. If so, [Limbaugh] concluded, Brown’s ‘victory could be even more indicative of an even bigger change in the political temper of the country than has so far been recognized.’ For this, Rush Limbaugh has been subjected to a vile attack by Abraham Foxman, the national director of the Anti-Defamation League.
“Of course, Mr. Foxman has a long history of seeing an anti-Semite under every conservative bed while blinding himself to the blatant fact that anti-Semitism has largely been banished from the Right in the past forty years, and that it has found a hospitable new home on the Left, especially where Israel is concerned.” The left is where the anti-Israel forces exist, including in this administration, Mr. Foxman! “This makes Foxman a perfect embodiment of the phenomenon I analyze in ‘Why Are Jews Liberals?’ Now Foxman has the chutzpah to denounce Rush Limbaugh as an anti-Semite and to demand an apology from him to boot. Well, if an apology is owed here, it is the national director of the Anti-Defamation League who should apologize for the defamatory accusation of anti-Semitism that he himself has hurled against so loyal a friend of Israel as Rush Limbaugh.”
Michael Ledeen… By the way, we’ve put Mr. Podhoretz’s statement on my website. It’s also at the Commentary blog. Michael Ledeen weighed in on this with a post at the National Review Online Corner blog. “Norman Podhoretz quite properly takes Anti-Defamation League czar Abe Foxman to task for insinuating that Rush is somehow a Jew-hater for wondering if Jewish voters are having buyer’s remorse regarding Obama. They certainly should, both because of Obama’s striking nastiness to Israel and of his attacks on ‘greedy bankers’ (which Rush mentioned), free broadcasting, and of course the crusade against American medicine, all enterprises in which Jews have long flourished. Rush should be a hero to Foxman and American Jews, but they are so blindly partisan that they can no longer distinguish between their friends and their enemies.
“Foxman has relentlessly attacked American Evangelicals—arguably the most pro-Jewish and pro-Israel people in America—but conveniently disappears when the government goes after real Jews for presumed ‘dual loyalty.’ Which, one might say, is the core principle of the ADL. Foxman wants Rush to apologize. Nuts. I want Foxman retired and replaced by somebody who fights for Jews and our friends.” That’s Michael Ledeen. You know, I have to tell you, folks, one of my closest friends is Mark Levin. Everybody knows this. Mark Levin is Jewish. Mark Levin is disgusted with Abraham Foxman. What I’ve come to learn through this episode is how many Jewish people are disgusted with Abraham Foxman and have been for many years. I guess, basically… I really don’t want to do this because Mr. Podhoretz’ book is great (Why Are Jews Liberals?) and if you’ve ever wondered that, you need to read his book.
I know a lot of you do because it’s been a question that I’ve received a lot, particularly since the Obama administration. It was obvious from the early days of this administration that Israel was in the crosshairs of this administration. The Hollywood left supports Obama, and Jewish people on the left support Obama, and there are some people who said, “I don’t understand. I thought Israel was a key thing to all Jewish people,” and I say, “Read Mr. Podhoretz’s book: Why Are Jews Liberals?” Basically… It’s more complicated than this but I synthesize it down to one thing: Liberals are liberals first. They’re partisans first, whatever else they are. If they’re feminists, they’re still liberals first. If they’re animal rights nuts, they’re liberals first. If they are the hoaxers of climate change and global warming, they are liberals or socialists first—and the issues that they attach themselves to are simply their springboards, their jumping-off points for advancing liberalism and statism.
That’s what the Democrat Party has become: A coalition of all these disparate groups—the civil rights coalitions, the animal rights groups, feminism, the Hollywood left, all this stuff—and they all have one mission, and that is they hate conservatives and Republicans and they love government, and they have big problems with capitalism. So they’re all united in trying to destroy capitalism—or limit it, or blame it—and make America more like a Western European, socialist democracy. Anyway, thanks to Mr. Podhoretz for his reply, also to Michael Ledeen. But Mr. Foxman, not only am I not going to apologize, I’m going to say you should be embarrassed and next time call me if you think I’ve said something anti-Semitic or call somebody that knows me and find out what I actually said rather than trusting your friends on the left to accurately report what I said. I was in the midst of promoting, because I think it was worthwhile, the work of a celebrated and brilliant American Jew: Norman Podhoretz, and you refer to me as “borderline anti-Semitic.” That doesn’t compute, Mr. Foxman
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Read Comments (60) — Post Yours »
1
Jan 23, 2010 at 09:13 PM Anonymous Says:Report as Inappropriate
Very well said.
Foxman should step down. He does not represent the Jewish people.
2
Jan 23, 2010 at 09:18 PM Joey Says:Report as Inappropriate
Just because he has a couple o Jewish freinds don't mean he can say deragotory stuff about us
3
Jan 23, 2010 at 09:22 PM rush baby Says:Report as Inappropriate
didos rush rfom a conservitive jewish fan of brooklyn , you r great and u r a gr8 fraind of moral jews, unlike some of ocr brethern that would rather let us crash and burn.(remember rubashkin)
4
Jan 23, 2010 at 09:25 PM dovy Says:Report as Inappropriate
Foxman resign now!
5
Jan 23, 2010 at 09:35 PM Anonymous Says:Report as Inappropriate
Bravo -finally we're calling a spade a spade!
Wakeup liberals, it's not about anti-semitism, racism, anti-environment, animal rights - but it's all about what furthers the LIBERAL agenda!
6
Jan 23, 2010 at 09:39 PM Avi from Brooklyn Says:Report as Inappropriate
This quote from the article is an example of why I despise Rush:
"That's what the Democrat Party has become: A coalition of all these disparate groups -- the civil rights coalitions, the animal rights groups, feminism, the Hollywood left, all this stuff -- and they all have one mission, and that is they hate conservatives and Republicans and they love government, and they have big problems with capitalism. So they're all united in trying to destroy capitalism -- or limit it, or blame it."
I've been a Democrat all my life, and I am not a member of any of these groups, nor are my friends in this party. Does anyone think that Ben Bernacke is a member of one of these groups? How about Robert Gates? Both were appointed by Pres. Bush, and have stayed on under Pres. Obama because they think he has been a good leader. Sure, there are people like these in my party--but a majority? That's nonsense.
I don't hate conservatives or Republicans, although I may disagree with them. I do despise liars, and spinners of half truths LIKE RUSH, a propagandist who doesn't let facts and reality confuse him! There is nobody like him in my party, thank G-d, and I hope there never will be.
7
Jan 23, 2010 at 09:41 PM Anonymous Says:Report as Inappropriate
Foxman makes a living finding things to kvetch about.
8
Jan 23, 2010 at 09:42 PM Avi from Brooklyn Says:Report as Inappropriate
One other thing about the above article on Rush Limbaugh: He says that Norman Podhoretz has a son named "John." "John," of course, was one of Yushka's "apostles." Does anyone know if Mr. Pohoretz is still Jewish? (I know about "John" because I grew up in the so-called "Bible Belt.")
9
Jan 23, 2010 at 09:47 PM Babishka Says:Report as Inappropriate
I listened to Rush for many years and I never heard him say anything that was anti-Jewish or anti-Israel.
10
Jan 23, 2010 at 09:51 PM wow Says:Report as Inappropriate
What a rebuttal!! It always has been Rush's story - people "quoting" him but leaving out key words which change the whole meaning.
11
Jan 23, 2010 at 09:52 PM PMO Says:Report as Inappropriate
Foxman is 9.99% wrong and it still pains me to admit that Rush is right... on this and only on this. He is not an antisemite. However, his spinning of the story into a rant about the Obama administration is disingenuous and dismissive. Even if you dislike the Obama foks, they are not now, nor have they ever been antisemitic. They may disagree with the political situation in E"Y, and the route to peace, but that is a far cry from outright antisemitism.
Just as there are some people who are offended by the "N" word, no matter what the context, some will also be offended by this. That is why we have terms like "the N word"... because we know that some language can be offensive no matter what the context. I for one was not offended, but I know plenty of people who were.
If Rush were half a man he would say "I'm sorry IF I offended anyone, that was not my intent and that is all I am going to say." and be done with it. However, because "entertainment" and spectacle comes before everything else with him, he had to spin the story into a "woe-is-me" and "I hate Obama" rant. It is cheap attention-getting and nothing more and that is why he remains the biggest phony I've seen.
12
Jan 23, 2010 at 09:57 PM diddohead Says:Report as Inappropriate
Rush is just saying the truth that most people are to afraid to admit.. He should be and would be a great president!!! Way to go Rush. We love you!!
13
Jan 23, 2010 at 10:01 PM R' D.Y. Schwartz, M.D. Says:Report as Inappropriate
“ One other thing about the above article on Rush Limbaugh: He says that Norman Podhoretz has a son named "John." "John," of course, was one of Yushka's "apostles." Does anyone know if Mr. Pohoretz is still Jewish? (I know about "John" because I grew up in the so-called "Bible Belt.") ”
Did you ever hear of the name Yochanan, as in Yochanan Ben Zakkai? John is merely the English adaptation of Yochanan. Jesus' apostles were Jews in a Jewish society, and therefore, had Hebrew names. You just demonstrated an incredible amount of ignorance. How about reading some history or archaeology books? Did you know that Rabbi Avigdor Miller, zt'l, declared it ASSUR for a Jew to vote for a party (Democrats) that supports homosexuals and the indiscriminate murder of babies (otherwise known as abortion on-demand- I am not referring to the very limited cases in which pregnancy threatens the mother's life, where abortion is mandated, according to all shitos, which is NOT abortion on demand).
14
Jan 23, 2010 at 10:02 PM Anonymous Says:Report as Inappropriate
rush is on the ball said as it is . he hocks like a yeshivah bocher . I think he shall vist one can't wait for the comments!
15
Jan 23, 2010 at 10:03 PM Anonymous Says:Report as Inappropriate
We love you Rush! Stay strong and keep those Libs and Dems on the defensive. Foxman is just looking for cheap publicity. Rush is a truly righteous human being and a good American, clean-cut and clear-thinking, a true patriot and defender of freedom. G-d Bless You Rush Limbaugh!
16
Jan 23, 2010 at 10:09 PM Anonymous Says:Report as Inappropriate
“ This quote from the article is an example of why I despise Rush:
"That's what the Democrat Party has become: A coalition of all these disparate groups -- the civil rights coalitions, the animal rights groups, feminism, the Hollywood left, all this stuff -- and they all have one mission, and that is they hate conservatives and Republicans and they love government, and they have big problems with capitalism. So they're all united in trying to destroy capitalism -- or limit it, or blame it."
I've been a Democrat all my life, and I am not a member of any of these groups, nor are my friends in this party. Does anyone think that Ben Bernacke is a member of one of these groups? How about Robert Gates? Both were appointed by Pres. Bush, and have stayed on under Pres. Obama because they think he has been a good leader. Sure, there are people like these in my party--but a majority? That's nonsense.
I don't hate conservatives or Republicans, although I may disagree with them. I do despise liars, and spinners of half truths LIKE RUSH, a propagandist who doesn't let facts and reality confuse him! There is nobody like him in my party, thank G-d, and I hope there never will be.
”
That was some good satire there Avi. Really good. Nobody in the Democrats are propagandist who don't let facts and reality confuse them? Nobody?
17
Jan 23, 2010 at 10:10 PM R' D.Y. Schwartz, M.D. Says:Report as Inappropriate
“ Just because he has a couple o Jewish freinds don't mean he can say deragotory stuff about us ”
He said nothing derogatory about Jews. He is an OHEIV YISROEL and a big supporter of Eretz Yisroel and those Torah Jews who live in Yesha and the West Bank (and who lived in Aza, rachmono litzlan). When these Jews were being expelled from their homes, the ADL ENCOURAGED their expulsion, along with every other self-hating liberal "Jewish" group in America. No Torah Jew should donate money to an organization that is out to destroy our way of life and replace it with the values of Secular Humanism, the Pittsburgh Platform of the Reform Movement, and the Democrat Party. The ADL supports absolutely nothing that is consonant with Torah values, and it desires to remove G-d from the United States, along with the ACLU. Maybe one day you will wake up and realize that we are in a war between good and evil forces in this country. The left is out to destroy the economy, remove all barriers between people, and make us a secularized, politically-correct nation. Conservatives believe that HaShem loves and protects Am Yisroel, and seek to encourage individuals to live lives free of government intrusion and taxation, while honoring HaShem and morality in our everyday lives.
18
Jan 23, 2010 at 10:11 PM yudel Says:Report as Inappropriate
As Rav avigdor Miller said you can't vote for a Democrat because they are ALL liberals. Every liberal (democrat) hashkofah is against the Torah. So Rush was right li'maaseh.
19
Jan 23, 2010 at 10:14 PM jay Says:Report as Inappropriate
Rush is great in what he does, now he is trying to make Mr. Foxman the issue
although I hate mr. Foxman he is not the problem here, rush called most bankers Jewish.
Definitely an anti-Semitic remark and didn’t bother addressing it
I guess rush is an anti-Semite
20
Jan 23, 2010 at 10:15 PM Satmar101 Says:Report as Inappropriate
“ This quote from the article is an example of why I despise Rush:
"That's what the Democrat Party has become: A coalition of all these disparate groups -- the civil rights coalitions, the animal rights groups, feminism, the Hollywood left, all this stuff -- and they all have one mission, and that is they hate conservatives and Republicans and they love government, and they have big problems with capitalism. So they're all united in trying to destroy capitalism -- or limit it, or blame it."
I've been a Democrat all my life, and I am not a member of any of these groups, nor are my friends in this party. Does anyone think that Ben Bernacke is a member of one of these groups? How about Robert Gates? Both were appointed by Pres. Bush, and have stayed on under Pres. Obama because they think he has been a good leader. Sure, there are people like these in my party--but a majority? That's nonsense.
I don't hate conservatives or Republicans, although I may disagree with them. I do despise liars, and spinners of half truths LIKE RUSH, a propagandist who doesn't let facts and reality confuse him! There is nobody like him in my party, thank G-d, and I hope there never will be.
”
Hey Avi.... I dont think that you ever listened to Rush.... Rush is an Ohaiv Yisrael... You should be ashamed of your comments ....to talk about someone who loves Israel and its people l
21
Jan 23, 2010 at 10:15 PM Anonymous Says:Report as Inappropriate
“ One other thing about the above article on Rush Limbaugh: He says that Norman Podhoretz has a son named "John." "John," of course, was one of Yushka's "apostles." Does anyone know if Mr. Pohoretz is still Jewish? (I know about "John" because I grew up in the so-called "Bible Belt.") ”
Podhoretz's wife, Midge Decter, is Jewish and if they gave their son the English name John, it is because it is the English version of Yochanan. Lots of American Jews have English names, such as the famous Jewish singer Paul Singer (also named after an apostle) or the comedians Jerry Lewish, Jerry Seinfeld or Mathew Broderick. I'm not condoning or excusing the giving of English names, BUT HOW MANY JEWS BORN IN 1920'S OR 1930'S GERMANY HAD THE NAME ADOLF? A surprisingly high number of German Jews were named Adolf so get off your Yushka complex.
22
Jan 23, 2010 at 10:16 PM PMO Says:Report as Inappropriate
“ Bravo -finally we're calling a spade a spade!
Wakeup liberals, it's not about anti-semitism, racism, anti-environment, animal rights - but it's all about what furthers the LIBERAL agenda! ”
So this long tirade that started about a poor choice of words that RUSH turned into a big, hateful speech is not simply to further HIS agenda? Come on... you can't be that ignorant.
23
Jan 23, 2010 at 10:16 PM Anonymous Says:Report as Inappropriate
Mark Levin is the Jewish version of Limbaugh and Glenn Beck, no wonder he is friends with these types of Jews.
24
Jan 23, 2010 at 10:20 PM Monsey Man Says:Report as Inappropriate
“ This quote from the article is an example of why I despise Rush:
"That's what the Democrat Party has become: A coalition of all these disparate groups -- the civil rights coalitions, the animal rights groups, feminism, the Hollywood left, all this stuff -- and they all have one mission, and that is they hate conservatives and Republicans and they love government, and they have big problems with capitalism. So they're all united in trying to destroy capitalism -- or limit it, or blame it."
I've been a Democrat all my life, and I am not a member of any of these groups, nor are my friends in this party. Does anyone think that Ben Bernacke is a member of one of these groups? How about Robert Gates? Both were appointed by Pres. Bush, and have stayed on under Pres. Obama because they think he has been a good leader. Sure, there are people like these in my party--but a majority? That's nonsense.
I don't hate conservatives or Republicans, although I may disagree with them. I do despise liars, and spinners of half truths LIKE RUSH, a propagandist who doesn't let facts and reality confuse him! There is nobody like him in my party, thank G-d, and I hope there never will be.
”
Actually there was someone like him in your Party. Liberal talk show host Al Franken, now Democrat Senator. Proud? Happy?
25
Jan 23, 2010 at 10:22 PM Anonymous Says:Report as Inappropriate
I heard Rush on Wednesday saying what he said. I am not a big fan of him, but some coworkers and I were listening to him because we wanted to hear his analysis of the Brown win. None of us (Jews from all walks of life, Modern, Hasidic, Litvish and even one Reform (and a big Liberal)) listening to him found what he said offensive. Not sure what this Foxman wants, possibly as Rush said, someone must have taken a few words out of the long monologue and chopped them up in a way that it sounds that he is saying something against Jews and sent it to Foxman.
I don't listen much to Rush, as I don't like him, much too Conservative for me, but from the little I hear him, I have to agree with him that he is a big fan and friend of Jews and of Israel. I think that Foxman should apologize to him.
26
Jan 23, 2010 at 10:26 PM truth hards Says:Report as Inappropriate
Its people like Foxman who make guyim not like yidden!
27
Jan 23, 2010 at 10:38 PM roz lundgren Says:Report as Inappropriate
I'd like to know who pays the bills over there at ADL. Same folks that pay for J Street? That would explain a lot.
28
Jan 23, 2010 at 10:39 PM Shmoo Says:Report as Inappropriate
I've heard Rush's show hundreds of times. Heard him support Israel numerous times, even when it wasn't the popular thing to do. Never heard him preach any anti-semetism. Agree with him or not, the man is undeniably brilliant- and a tried and true friend of Israel.
29
Jan 23, 2010 at 10:42 PM Boruch Says:Report as Inappropriate
Sadly, over the years, the ADL evolved into becoming another arm of the DNC. It's been years already that they don't represent Jews. And Foxman is an embarassment.
35
Jan 23, 2010 at 10:49 PM professor Says:Report as Inappropriate
“ One other thing about the above article on Rush Limbaugh: He says that Norman Podhoretz has a son named "John." "John," of course, was one of Yushka's "apostles." Does anyone know if Mr. Pohoretz is still Jewish? (I know about "John" because I grew up in the so-called "Bible Belt.") ”
John is also English for Yonason.
36
Jan 23, 2010 at 10:51 PM Elchonon Says:Report as Inappropriate
For the record, Dr MLK Jr was a Republican..
37
Jan 23, 2010 at 11:06 PM Common Sense Says:Report as Inappropriate
“ One other thing about the above article on Rush Limbaugh: He says that Norman Podhoretz has a son named "John." "John," of course, was one of Yushka's "apostles." Does anyone know if Mr. Pohoretz is still Jewish? (I know about "John" because I grew up in the so-called "Bible Belt.") ”
His being named "John" means nada with respect to his level of Judaism. I know proud Jews with the name Matthew as well. At least as of a few years ago John Podhoretz was proudly Jewish. As a side note he happens to have penned a vitriolic satirical editorial against Joe Kennedy at the time JFK Jr. was killed in a plan crash several years ago. Great stuff, but was a bit too much for some people at the time and the I believe the New York Post (where it had been published) was quickly recalled after word got out.
38
Jan 23, 2010 at 11:10 PM Rush , a huge Israeli supporter Says:Report as Inappropriate
No way you heard him say something anti-Jewish or anti-Israel. I have listened for a long time...he has been one of , if not the best, Israeli and Jewish supporters in all of media. He has a terrific, and accurate assessment of the middle-east. He is on our side, 100%. Go find your boogy-men somewhere else!
39
Jan 23, 2010 at 11:22 PM Avi is a Liberal Says:Report as Inappropriate
“ One other thing about the above article on Rush Limbaugh: He says that Norman Podhoretz has a son named "John." "John," of course, was one of Yushka's "apostles." Does anyone know if Mr. Pohoretz is still Jewish? (I know about "John" because I grew up in the so-called "Bible Belt.") ”
Hang on ... you don't like Rush Limbaugh. OK. We get it. That's your opinion, and surely, you're not alone. But like all liberals, it wasn't enough to state an opinion, some twist to somehow smear or invalidate the whoever you really disagree with, which is Norman Podhoretz.
40
Jan 23, 2010 at 11:48 PM Anonymous Says:Report as Inappropriate
“ John is also English for Yonason. ”
Yonasan would be Jon or Jonathan - Yochanan is John, the "H" is for the "ches", like in German Yochanan is Johann (and the J is pronounced like a Y)
41
Jan 23, 2010 at 11:56 PM Anonymous Says:Report as Inappropriate
Rush should step down and Savage should take his place
42
Jan 24, 2010 at 12:12 AM Charlie Hall Says:Report as Inappropriate
“ For the record, Dr MLK Jr was a Republican.. ”
Rush Limbaugh has few good qualities, but one is that he is indeed a supporter of Israel. But his complaints about bank-bashing rings hollow, as one of the biggest bank-bashers was his fellow conservative Pat Robertson, using language that could have been from the Protocols. Did Rush Limbaugh say a word about Robertson?
43
Jan 24, 2010 at 12:34 AM Anonymous Says:Report as Inappropriate
Foxman is way out of line here. Seems like he woke up in middle of a deep sleep and decided to kick in his selective hearing mode. Rush has always been known to be a friend and tell it like it is. I agree that an apology from Foxman is in order. And while he apologizes let him not stop there. He can continue and apologize for not representing the TRUE american jewry and not the couple of leftists.
44
Jan 24, 2010 at 12:43 AM Anonymous Says:Report as Inappropriate
“ Rush should step down and Savage should take his place ”
Rush is the top conservative voice in America, but he does not occupy some official position that he should "step down" from so somebody else can "take his place" -- in the same sense that, say, Foxy Abe should step down as the head of the ADL and let someone else take HIS place.
Rush is the king of conservative talk radio because his listeners make him such, all approximately 20 million per week. Savage has many listeners, but still far less than Rush. If people wanted to hear Savage as much as they do Rush, then Savage would be Number One, instead of several places down the list behind not only Rush but such other hosts as Sean Hannity, Bill O'Reilly, etc.
While I agree with Savage's contention that a nation must control its own BORDERS, LANGUAGE and CULTURE, I do not listen to him because I do not like his nasty and sarcastic style, which includes potshots at other conservative hosts like Rush and Hannity. Rush, on the other hand, is always polite to his callers, even those whom he disagrees with, but makes his points just as effectively without sounding crazy. Savage also once called autism just a hoax and an excuse for poor child discipline, and on that, he is DEAD WRONG.
45
Jan 24, 2010 at 01:36 AM Anonymous Says:Report as Inappropriate
How many times has Foxman accepted the whitewashed (no pun intended) lily-livered, weak "apologies" from the likes of Jackson & other communist/Marxists? He only goes ballistic when conservatives supposedly say stuff, & we all know that Rush's words are often taken out of context. I've been trying to remember what was said by whom recently & Foxman accepted the pathetic words. Maybe someone on VIN can help me out?
46
Jan 24, 2010 at 01:46 AM Anonymous Says:Report as Inappropriate
“ Just because he has a couple o Jewish freinds don't mean he can say deragotory stuff about us ”
you obviously dont understand this news article, he is pro jewish, read it again joey.
47
Jan 24, 2010 at 07:18 AM Anonymous Says:Report as Inappropriate
Foxman runs a business using the name of anti Semitism!!its a joke and a complete chilul hashem. Unfortunately he holds a lot of power in us states politics and internationally as well.He is most certainly not a spokesman for all jewish people but rather for a group of jews who ONLY identify themselves through the fear of being persecuted.There was a program recently in the UK by leftist journalist yoav shamir(see it if you can)it was so embarresing to see foxman trying to find a genuine case of anti Semitism for the film crew to follow and yet he was receiving millions of $$$ a year to fund WHAT???
48
Jan 24, 2010 at 07:35 AM PulpitRabbi Says:Report as Inappropriate
“ One other thing about the above article on Rush Limbaugh: He says that Norman Podhoretz has a son named "John." "John," of course, was one of Yushka's "apostles." Does anyone know if Mr. Pohoretz is still Jewish? (I know about "John" because I grew up in the so-called "Bible Belt.") ”
The name John is derived from the Greek transliteration of Jochanan.
49
Jan 24, 2010 at 08:29 AM Anonymous Says:Report as Inappropriate
“ This quote from the article is an example of why I despise Rush:
"That's what the Democrat Party has become: A coalition of all these disparate groups -- the civil rights coalitions, the animal rights groups, feminism, the Hollywood left, all this stuff -- and they all have one mission, and that is they hate conservatives and Republicans and they love government, and they have big problems with capitalism. So they're all united in trying to destroy capitalism -- or limit it, or blame it."
I've been a Democrat all my life, and I am not a member of any of these groups, nor are my friends in this party. Does anyone think that Ben Bernacke is a member of one of these groups? How about Robert Gates? Both were appointed by Pres. Bush, and have stayed on under Pres. Obama because they think he has been a good leader. Sure, there are people like these in my party--but a majority? That's nonsense.
I don't hate conservatives or Republicans, although I may disagree with them. I do despise liars, and spinners of half truths LIKE RUSH, a propagandist who doesn't let facts and reality confuse him! There is nobody like him in my party, thank G-d, and I hope there never will be.
”
"How about Robert Gates? Both were appointed by Pres. Bush, and have stayed on under Pres. Obama because they think he has been a good leader. Sure, there are people like these in my party--but a majority? That's nonsense."
This is one of the dumbest things I have seen on VIN in aa long time...and I have seen some dumb things. Think about the positions Bernanke and Gates hold, they aren't Obama's Press Secretary, or even the Secretary of State. They hold two of the most important "Operational" jobs in the administration. If anything your statements goes to prove the opposite. If your a Fireman and a guy comes up to you and says my house is burning, do you just sit there because he is a Democrat and your a Republican. Obama asked Gates to stay because he is a highly effective Secretary of Defense, and the same goes for Bernanke. Arguably they accepted the jobs because they didn't trust any other Obama appointee to hold the position. Because the worst damage the Secretary of State can do is embarrass the US. The worst damage the Secretary of Defense can do...I don't even want to think of the potential tragedies.
50
Jan 24, 2010 at 08:32 AM 5T Resident Says:Report as Inappropriate
“ One other thing about the above article on Rush Limbaugh: He says that Norman Podhoretz has a son named "John." "John," of course, was one of Yushka's "apostles." Does anyone know if Mr. Pohoretz is still Jewish? (I know about "John" because I grew up in the so-called "Bible Belt.") ”
A little history is in order here.
The name "John" is nothing more than an anglicization of the name Johann, which was the Germanic translation of the name Yochanan. The similar name "Jon" or Jonathan is an anglicization of Yonason. Thus, "John" is not a "Christian" name, but like so many other names and things, it has been co-opted by the Christians from the Jews. The same is true of "Mary" - its an anglicization of Miriam, nothing more. Again, co-opted by the Christians.
By the way, Philip, Andrew, Matthew and Mark were also Apostles and thus also are "Christian" names. Yet, Jews, including frum Jews, use these names freely every single day. And one other thing - "Jesus" is not even a proper name. Its an Greek translation of his birth name, Yeshu or Yehoshua. Calling a Jewish kid Joshua today is equivalent to calling him Jesus in Greek.
I wouldn't name my kids John or Mary because of the stigma involved but the truth is, if you know your history well, naming them that is not worse than calling them Andy, Mark, Phil, Matt or Stephen too for that matter. Every English name you can think of today has been co-opted at some point and to some extent by the Christian religion.
51
Jan 24, 2010 at 08:53 AM Avi from Brooklyn Says:Report as Inappropriate
“ How many times has Foxman accepted the whitewashed (no pun intended) lily-livered, weak "apologies" from the likes of Jackson & other communist/Marxists? He only goes ballistic when conservatives supposedly say stuff, & we all know that Rush's words are often taken out of context. I've been trying to remember what was said by whom recently & Foxman accepted the pathetic words. Maybe someone on VIN can help me out?
”
In response to #45's comments that Foxman apparently only praises leftists, please note the following excerpts from his comments (quoted from HaAretz) when the Rev Jerry Falwell passed on:
" . . . Anti-Defamation League National Director Abraham Foxman, a critic of evangelist Jerry Falwell in life, has voiced sadness at his death, calling him a "dear friend of Israel" who would be greatly missed . . .
" . . . Despite our many disagreements through the years, we were saddened to learn of the loss of the Rev. Jerry Falwell. He was a passionate leader of Christianity in America and a dear friend of Israel." Foxman said in a statement . . . "
Falwell was NOBODY'S liberal or leftist, right? I rest my case.
52
Jan 24, 2010 at 09:01 AM Common Sense Says:Report as Inappropriate
Rush is no anti-semite--his track record proves that fact. His support for E"Y and anti-terrorism have been steadfast. Why do we get offended when Rush or anyone else mentions Jewish representation on Wall Street? Jews do gravitate to Wall Street and business--nothing wrong with that. We should get offended when some or our brethren on Wall Street or anywhere else, give Jews a bad name and commit a chillul HaShem. We have sadly seen too many stories in the past year or so, some involving rabbinic and frumme Yidden, committing illegal and unethical acts. And, of course it will take a long time to live down the likes of Uncle Bernie, "Rabbi" Rubashkin, "Attorney" Rothstein, and Mr. Dwek (and company in Deal) et al. Now, that is what we should get upset about. Leave Rush alone and let's talk about getting our own house in order.
53
Jan 24, 2010 at 09:33 AM This is why Says:Report as Inappropriate
Foxman has many liberal supporters, and once in a while he has to show that he is in line with their thinking, and had to blast the right.
Rush is anything but anti-Semitic, rush is a friend, and frankly id rather an anti semitic Rush than a friendly Obama.
54
Jan 24, 2010 at 09:40 AM My vote is for Rush Says:Report as Inappropriate
Rush is right with what he says. He is also a strong supporter of the Jewish people and Israel.
55
Jan 24, 2010 at 11:58 AM Anonymous Says:Report as Inappropriate
“ Rush is the top conservative voice in America, but he does not occupy some official position that he should "step down" from so somebody else can "take his place" -- in the same sense that, say, Foxy Abe should step down as the head of the ADL and let someone else take HIS place.
Rush is the king of conservative talk radio because his listeners make him such, all approximately 20 million per week. Savage has many listeners, but still far less than Rush. If people wanted to hear Savage as much as they do Rush, then Savage would be Number One, instead of several places down the list behind not only Rush but such other hosts as Sean Hannity, Bill O'Reilly, etc.
While I agree with Savage's contention that a nation must control its own BORDERS, LANGUAGE and CULTURE, I do not listen to him because I do not like his nasty and sarcastic style, which includes potshots at other conservative hosts like Rush and Hannity. Rush, on the other hand, is always polite to his callers, even those whom he disagrees with, but makes his points just as effectively without sounding crazy. Savage also once called autism just a hoax and an excuse for poor child discipline, and on that, he is DEAD WRONG. ”
The argument that a nation must control its "borders, language, and culture" led to America's draconian immigration restrictions that were enacted in the 1920s. Those restrictions meant that six million had nowhere to flee. I find it surprising that on a frum site, where we are supposed to be avoiding assimilation, some of us identify primarily with the interests and ideals of a bigoted non-Jewish majority that has badly harmed us in the past.
56
Jan 24, 2010 at 04:04 PM Anonymous Says:Report as Inappropriate
Mr. Foxman, there Gemoroh says : a small coin in an empty can, makes a loud noise......
57
Jan 24, 2010 at 07:13 PM Avi is Chris Says:Report as Inappropriate
"Avi from Brooklyn" is truly Chris from San Francisco.
58
Jan 24, 2010 at 10:48 PM Rush fan Says:Report as Inappropriate
B"H I have listened to Rush for about 13 years and have never ever heard him say one anti semetic or anti Israel remark. We need to know who are friends are and not treat them badly because of an out of context quote. As Jews, we should understand spin more than anyone as Jews. In Abe Foxman's defense he was going on a quote that he was told about . However, I do feel he, Abe Foxman should appologize to Rush who has been a friend all these years.
59
Jan 24, 2010 at 11:33 PM Milhouse Says:Report as Inappropriate
“ "How about Robert Gates? Both were appointed by Pres. Bush, and have stayed on under Pres. Obama because they think he has been a good leader. Sure, there are people like these in my party--but a majority? That's nonsense."
This is one of the dumbest things I have seen on VIN in aa long time...and I have seen some dumb things. Think about the positions Bernanke and Gates hold, they aren't Obama's Press Secretary, or even the Secretary of State. They hold two of the most important "Operational" jobs in the administration. If anything your statements goes to prove the opposite. If your a Fireman and a guy comes up to you and says my house is burning, do you just sit there because he is a Democrat and your a Republican. Obama asked Gates to stay because he is a highly effective Secretary of Defense, and the same goes for Bernanke. Arguably they accepted the jobs because they didn't trust any other Obama appointee to hold the position. Because the worst damage the Secretary of State can do is embarrass the US. The worst damage the Secretary of Defense can do...I don't even want to think of the potential tragedies. ”
In the case of Bernanke it isn't even a matter of being asked to stay: his appointment is for a fixed term, and Obama couldn't fire him even if he wanted to. There was never any question of his resigning just because there was a new president. He doesn't work for the president, and doesn't have to care who the president is.
60
Jan 24, 2010 at 11:37 PM Milhouse Says:Report as Inappropriate
“ One other thing about the above article on Rush Limbaugh: He says that Norman Podhoretz has a son named "John." "John," of course, was one of Yushka's "apostles." Does anyone know if Mr. Pohoretz is still Jewish? (I know about "John" because I grew up in the so-called "Bible Belt.") ”
What a truly idiotic comment. How is John more goyish a name than Norman or Midge? Or, for that matter, Irving, Milton, Sheldon, Molly, Barbara, or any of the other goyishe names that are more common among Jews than among goyim?
61
Jan 25, 2010 at 01:21 AM Anonymous Says:Report as Inappropriate
“ The argument that a nation must control its "borders, language, and culture" led to America's draconian immigration restrictions that were enacted in the 1920s. Those restrictions meant that six million had nowhere to flee. I find it surprising that on a frum site, where we are supposed to be avoiding assimilation, some of us identify primarily with the interests and ideals of a bigoted non-Jewish majority that has badly harmed us in the past.
”
If you think a nation should not control its own borders, language and culture, then I suggest you move from wherever you now live to, say, Los Angeles, and just wait about 20 years or so. You will definitely be a minority in your own country out there if current politically correct trends in lax immigration enforcement, plus internal population demographics, and a "multicultural" elevation of Hispanic culture as equal to or even superior to the previously dominant "Anglo" culture, continue. And there is a growing separatist movement, headed by such racist groups as MEChA (whose Spanish motto translated into English is "for The [Latino] Race, everything, for those outside The Race, nothing". Goebbels himself could not have written a more racist slogan). They call the Southwest US "Aztlan" and dream of a "Reconquista" that would split the Southwest politically away from the US. as a separate independent state. BTW, they analogize their "struggle" to that of the Palestinians against Israel, which they denounce as "racist" and "colonialist." And Israel itself had better secure its own BORDERS, LANGUAGE and CULTURE against the growing, increasingly vocal and arrogant Arab minority.
62
Jan 25, 2010 at 05:23 PM Anonymous Says:Report as Inappropriate
“ In response to #45's comments that Foxman apparently only praises leftists, please note the following excerpts from his comments (quoted from HaAretz) when the Rev Jerry Falwell passed on:
" . . . Anti-Defamation League National Director Abraham Foxman, a critic of evangelist Jerry Falwell in life, has voiced sadness at his death, calling him a "dear friend of Israel" who would be greatly missed . . .
" . . . Despite our many disagreements through the years, we were saddened to learn of the loss of the Rev. Jerry Falwell. He was a passionate leader of Christianity in America and a dear friend of Israel." Foxman said in a statement . . . "
Falwell was NOBODY'S liberal or leftist, right? I rest my case.
”
I guess he only praises friends from the right when they’re dead; so case not proven.
Seriously there must have been a “reason” that he praised him. Someone in his position who’s goal is to protect Jews who are defamed, to go himself and defame a real friend of the Jewish people, has made a mockery of his job, in addition to making more enemies for us. He doesn’t have to agree with Rush, and neither do I on many things; but his asking Rush to apologize is outrageous and indefensible.
63
Jan 25, 2010 at 05:26 PM Anonymous Says:Report as Inappropriate
“ The argument that a nation must control its "borders, language, and culture" led to America's draconian immigration restrictions that were enacted in the 1920s. Those restrictions meant that six million had nowhere to flee. I find it surprising that on a frum site, where we are supposed to be avoiding assimilation, some of us identify primarily with the interests and ideals of a bigoted non-Jewish majority that has badly harmed us in the past.
”
I agree with you, but still Rush is no anti-Semite which ever way you want to slice it.
64
Jan 25, 2010 at 11:53 PM Anonymous Says:Report as Inappropriate
All the ignorant people on this site who have never listened to what Limbaugh has actually said about Jews and Israel and who condemn him should Google: Israeli tennis player threatened, French Jews murder, Rashid Khalidi, Obama, Gaza, Jodie Evans and Code Pink, David Horowitz and College Anti-Semitism, Fort Lauderdale Gaza protestors Jews ovens not big enough. Foxman and the ADL are anachronisms and in their quest to remain relevant, they actually cause MORE anti-semitism-as this recent controversy demonstrates. His going after Rush Limbaugh is a disgrace. Read Podhoretz’s brilliant book IF you can read history—a comprehensive review of 20th Century American Jewish politics. The 78% of Jews who will reflexively vote for anyone with a "D" after their names call themselves "independent” but they don’t know history and are hopelessly incapable of being independent. Podhoretz and Limbaugh are obviously hoping a good portion of these sheep will figure out that Obama is not at all dissimilar to the “Nation’s Hemorrhoid,” Jimmy Carter.
65
Jan 27, 2010 at 03:45 AM BrooklynBorn Says:Report as Inappropriate
“ Foxman is 9.99% wrong and it still pains me to admit that Rush is right... on this and only on this. He is not an antisemite. However, his spinning of the story into a rant about the Obama administration is disingenuous and dismissive. Even if you dislike the Obama foks, they are not now, nor have they ever been antisemitic. They may disagree with the political situation in E"Y, and the route to peace, but that is a far cry from outright antisemitism.
Just as there are some people who are offended by the "N" word, no matter what the context, some will also be offended by this. That is why we have terms like "the N word"... because we know that some language can be offensive no matter what the context. I for one was not offended, but I know plenty of people who were.
If Rush were half a man he would say "I'm sorry IF I offended anyone, that was not my intent and that is all I am going to say." and be done with it. However, because "entertainment" and spectacle comes before everything else with him, he had to spin the story into a "woe-is-me" and "I hate Obama" rant. It is cheap attention-getting and nothing more and that is why he remains the biggest phony I've seen. ”
Granted, Rush Limbo is full of himself, and typifies the right-wing "neo-con" nut fringe, but he's no anti-Semite. Abe Foxman is a known inveterate pathologic liar, who never misses an opportunity to defame someone he disagrees with; so much for the "Anti-Defamation League", that freemasonic entity that engages in constant defamation of anyone Abe Foxman deems worthy to defame. Of course, his freemasonic ties would explain his venomous attacks on Christianity in general, and the Catholic Church in particular. Ironically, he often attacks, to varying degrees, the "Vatican II" Sect", which has the chutzpah to call itself "Catholic". Although the "Vatican II" Sect generally kow-tows to Abe and his henchman (not surprisingly, they share freemasonry in common), this hasn't prevented Mr. Foxman from launching vituperative tirades against it when it makes even the most tepid statements against same-sex "marriage", abortion and other sundry vices. Of course, Abe Foxman knows as much about Catholicism as a wort hog does about hygiene. Nevertheless, the defamation just keeps on coming from this man who has all the morality of a sewer rat.