As candidate Ron Paul turns up the heat in Iowa, I see, rather predictably, that mainstream writers are turning up the heat on Ron Paul (see here, here, and here). At issue now are the 20 plus year old newsletters, many of which were filled with racist rants, all of which were written under Ron Paul’s name. Ron Paul has previously denied both writing the letters and knowing who did, but that doesn’t stop elite media types from trotting out that very same skeleton from the closet every few years, all in hopes that getting black folks all riled up will be enough to beat back the momentum of Ron Paul’s supporters.
But there are some very important questions we should ask before arming ourselves with pitchforks and tearing off to the nearest Ron Paul for President campaign headquarters. When discussing Ron Paul, it’s important to consider whether all things are equal. I mean, does Ron Paul’s political philosophy still lend itself to the racist rants of twenty plus years ago? Or does his Libertarian philosophy trump a two decade old racist rag?
I’m not saying that Paul’s association with the newsletter bodes well for his personal ethics, but it does demand that we weigh its proportionality. Historians have sharpened our perception of Lincoln by highlighting that he was a man of the times and, although he did emancipate the slaves and save the union, he didn’t necessarily believe in race equality.
More recently, the American electorate brushed off charges that candidate Obama was some sort of hate monger simply because his pastor said “God damn America”. In both cases, what we did was view these men in their specific context; Lincoln in the context of 19th century America, which included the antebellum south, and Obama in the context of the black nationalist church, born of the black resentment which was the natural outgrowth of white supremacy.
And if we conflate fact with fiction, meaning if we conflate campaign promises with executive action, then we’re also forced to weigh the potential impact of a candidate’s platform. And for African Americans, there are some clear winners on Ron Paul’s platform that don’t exist on either the platform of Obama or Romney.
Paul would pardon all nonviolent drug offenders, end America’s foreign policy adventures abroad which are siphoning billions from domestic programs, and end a drug war that disproportionately relegates black men to a life behind bars. This is big; certainly it’s bigger than anything we hear coming from the milquetoast campaigns of both the Democrat and Republican establishment.
This is not to say, however, that I don’t have issues with Ron Paul, just that my issues with him have little to do with race. For example, since I don’t buy into the notion that markets do a good job of regulating themselves, I don’t believe in Paul’s “right to work” (for pennies) initiative, nor do I buy into any plan which asserts that the solution to our energy crisis is to remove restrictions on drilling. These are both 20th century solutions to 21st century problems. I would also add that Ron Paul’s position on faith stands in direct contradiction to his Libertarian principles, so that too is a problem for me. But that’s me taking a principled stand. That’s me focusing on the issues of the day instead of the politics of the 1980’s. That’s me not responding to the dog whistles of politics. Not to be a narcissist or anything, but sometimes I wish folks would be more like me.
Your Black Politics 
Politicians are liars and they have proven to be thieves as well. If you trust any politician you’ve made a big mistake! Let them say things that warm your spirits and build your hopes and you will be made the fool because as you have already witnessed, these people are not doing what they say they want to do. They are lying! It is my contention that they actually cannot do what they want because they are not actually in power. Their positions are a facade for show. England has a Queen, but she doesn’t rule the country and at least the people know that much, but they probably don’t know who actually dictates what their political puppets can and cannot do!
Ron Paul is a racist whether he knows it or not. Almost every time you sit down and try to get to know people like him, but especially people like him who are running for a political position, you will soon notice all types of indicators of his propensity towards racism in his carefully chosen words.
If you haven’t read or heard any of Tim Wise’s writings and speeches you are in for a surprise from this “white” man who minces no words when he illustrates how racist whites are, and how they don’t even recognize their racist ways ideals, and machinations.
Finally. I’m through voting for these political scoundrels. They have abused African Americans every century that we have been here, in this country our ancestors were enslaved, raped, beaten, traded, worked to death, treated worse than dogs, and taught the white man’s religion in order to sustain control over us. I wouldn’t vote for any of these fakers, these scoundrels of a system comprised of one body with two heads.
If we keep making the same mistakes over and over with the same negative results we are truly the insane! If we keep believing the lies of these descendents of our slave masters we are truly insane. If black people vote for a person like Ron Paul and expect anything different from him than the puppets before him, we are insane!l They lie and keep secrets, people! They serve the Anglo-elite 1 percent, people! So come on gain wisdom and enlightenment and curb your insanity!
Whether he knows it or not.. Hmm, sounds more like you want him to be racist so you can hate him
Thank you, WizardG. Well said. Ron Paul is just attempting to woo black votes by appearing to champion the black cause by acknowledging one of the most egregious and visible instituionalized attacks against black people, the calculated machinations of the criminal justice system.
All whites, both individuals and groups, including religious institutions (especially religious instittions), who have not used their positions and power to act against the unconscionable oppression of black people through the centuries are racist by nature. It is in their “psychic genes”, handed down, sometimes consciously, sometimes unconsciously, from one generation to another. For the most part they have no concept of what it is like to grow up and live black in America. They do studies, cite statistics, and do their missionary work, thereby easing their consciences. Talking the talk is easy. Doing the walk is another thing.
Don’t be fooled by the likes of Ron Paul. He just wants your votes. And don’t be a fool like Herman Cain.
Mary, Paul is not championing the black cause, he is championing the cause of individual liberty. And not to woo votes, he was doing it long before his run for president.
“All whites…are racist by nature.” So whites have an innate racism? Your statements scream of racism. So according to your line of logic, Paul can’t help but be racist because he is white. Who here is the real racist? Please objectively rethink what you have written.
All whites? Hmmm…. then how do you explain the fact that many whites have been fierce opponents of black oppression since the founding of this country? I think you should rethink your position.
I was born in Little Rock in 1950. I know a racist white, most particularly when I hear and see him utter his claptrap.
A wise old brother told me a long time ago to, “Watch what they do and not what they say” and I’ve been doing just that ever since. This is what I think you’re saying and if so you are right.
If the original “Bill of Rights” were to be adhered to, would it matter the personal opinions of anyone, legally?
I personally don’t think Paul racist. But that said, if he follows the Constitutional requirements of his office, and does not exceed them which is the case for all the other candidates (including the incumbant), then would that not serve ALL Americans?
Auditing the Federal Reserve will lead to its abolition. The inherent corruption of a private cartel of bankers controlling the money supply and directing it too their chosen is at the root of our economic woes.
I sincerely believe in a Common Law. Richard Maybury writes the best version or coined it the best in a book called “Whatever Happened to Justice”. “Do all you have agreed to do and do not encroach on other persons or their property”. Adherence to this as LAW and not just thinking of it as a moral position is possible. It or something very close to this could and should be codified as the base code of our law. The ability of our legislators to violate this or the Bill of Rights is fundamental to all the abuse and class or race “warfare” that is still so prevelant in American society.
While the Constitution is obviously a flawed document, ie: 5/8ths of a person, no womans sufferage. The basic premise of the Bill of Rights allows for individual freedom. The Bill of Rights was not to be “laws” for the population. They were rules or laws for the Federal Government. “you can go no further than this!!” Unfortunately this seems to have fallen by the wayside almost immediately for political sake.
It seems the “game” of politics is at the core. It certainly is what the media focuses on. Probably just to keep most folks arguing over hot button issues. The cliche “When your up to your ass in aligators it is difficult to remember that your purpose was simply to drain the swamp” come to mind on this political tactic.
First, Ron Paul is not a typical politician. He is much more of a statesman.
No, he is not perfect. But he is closer than any one running, including Gary Johnson, who I like & would support. No one comes close to Ron Paul’s dedication to restoring our founding documents or Founder’s intents.
You make a great & very weird, leap; “Ron Paul is a racist whether he knows it or not. Almost every time you sit down and try to get to know people like him, but especially people like him who are running for a political position, you will soon notice all types of indicators of his propensity towards racism in his carefully chosen words.”
Whether he knows it or not? ???? Bad try. As in horrible!! How many conversations have you had with Dr. Paul? What were Ron’s “carefully chosen words” that you heard him say…
The news letters have been taken apart in the following–The attempt at the old deception of “guilt by association” is a huge fail.
Truth about the newsletters, from the source,
[Same message as above.]
http://www.wxix.com/Global/searchresults.asp?vendor=ez&qu=Ron+Paul+newsletters
What white man’s religion? If you are talking about Christianity it’s a Jewish thing. Came out of Israel. Jesus’ message, the New Testament Gospel, was1st publicized by orthodox Jews. No white men invented it, they just adopted what Jesus started, a relationship with Father God. Lotta races have done that…And true Christianity is NOT a religion. Yeshua [Jesus] was not a white man. His human side came through a Jewess, His Mom, Mary. His divine side came from The I AM of Moses, the Creator.
Hope that helps.
SamFox
I have a huge problem with Ron Paul eagerly and knowingly taking a campaign donation from Texas Ku Klux Klan Grand Wizard Don Black. What makes matters worse, he refuses to return the donation and he was proud to stand side by side with this Klan leader and his son for a photo op. Is he a racist? Here is an excerpt from his website, “This is a nation that once prided itself on a sense of rugged individualism has become uncomfortably obsessed with racial group identities.” Why are all the Klan and neo-Nazi groups around America openingly endorsing Paul? Because he is a racist!!!
So does Obama like to kill babies because one of his donors killed a baby?
With Ron Paul we have a name, Don Black and he is not just “one of his donors” he is the leader of a nationally known hate group. I am quite sure that President Obama has supporters that are pro-abortion. However, the discussion concerns Ron Paul and whether or not he is racist, whatever you have against President Obama does not erase the fact that Ron Paul is a racist. If in your opinion President Obama is a “baby-killer” does that justify Paul being a racist bigot? Think.
Is it any worse than Obama taking campaign dollars from Palestinian Jihadists among other questionable donations to his campaign?
http://www.washingtontimes.com/blog/watercooler/2010/jan/29/obamas-amnesia-08-campaigns-fishy-donations/
The link that you provided really proves nothing, and in answer to your question I would NOT vote for a man that is delighted to take a photo-op with a home-grown terrorist. The KKK is the original home-grown terrorist, and I definitely would not vote for anybody that is connected with a political party that wants to bring back pre-existing conditions, kick grand-ma off of Medicare and give her a coupon, rip away workers rights, prevent you from voting, declare war on women, and let consumers fend for themselves. As long as he runs on the GOP ticket he is just another obstructionist in my book.
If you want to know if Ron Paul is racist or not you have to ask this question: has Ron Paul said or written anything racist in 30 years as a politician? The answer is no, which is more than one can say for the ridiculous and hypocritical reaction by his Neocon opponents. They know he really isn’t racist or anti-Semitic either, and every baseless ad hominem attack further fuels the support for his campaign. Ron’s platform of Prosperity and Peace should be rallying point for the future of the African-American community.
I see you are at it again on a black blog defending a white racist. Ron Paul is a racist whether he said anything racist in 20 30 40 years or not.
you are dumb
how do you explain the million dollars he profited from the racist newsletter distributed in his name?
yes he did not write the articles…but his finger prints are all over the paper! if not a racist..he is definitely unethical and a liar when saying he does not know who was behind the newsletter that put over a million dollars in his bank account.
Are you aware that there were multiple newsletters, most of them focusing on hard money issues (economics, gold standard, etc). That these newsletters spanned decades, and had countless articles written by a variety of staff members. And that the only ‘racist’ comments were made during a period of time where Ron Paul had left office to go back to his medical practice, and, unfortunately, was not paying attention to them?
Now, across these decades of newsletters, there were 6 or a dozen or so offensive sentences. He didn’t make ‘a million dollars’ (a number which has never been documented in the first place) off of these dozen sentences. It’s not as if these newsletters were pure racial hatred; it was nothing of the sort.
Now, how exactly does one determine how much money was made off of a few sentences across hundreds of newsletters? And he didn’t even own the company producing them under his name (ghostwriting not uncommon, by the way – many books and articles ‘written’ by celebrities aren’t actually written by them.).
As for naming names, if Ron Paul named a name, he’d be playing the blame game. And what if the author is dead? Then the person couldn’t even defend themselves. Instead, he takes personal responsibility for letting them go out under his named, has apologized, and disavows them. This is the honorable thing to do, in an incredibly sticky situation where there is no easy answer. And this assumes he even knows who wrote it, when there was a staff of ghostwriters. He claims not to know (which doesn’t mean he doesn’t have suspicions, but for him to out someone based on suspicion would be a terrible thing), and based on examples of his integrity throughout his career, I’d be inclined to believe him.
Rather, let’s take a look at his actual statements and actions that can be attributed to him. And when one does that, honestly researches the man, it’s clear that he’s not racist. His entire philosophy of life and government – one which their is ample record of, by the way – is one that is anything but racist.
Now, that doesn’t mean there isn’t plenty that those with grudges can’t sling at him. He voted against a Congressional Medal of Honor for Rosa Parks!! Sounds terrible, right? Well, look deeper. Turns out, he votes no against this medal every year… he voted against one for golfer Arnold Palmer, and even against one for Mother Theresa. Why? Because the medal costs over $30k of taxpayer money. And he thinks that’s immoral, spending our money like that.
What was his solution? On the floor of the House, he gave a speech in which he praised Rosa Parks (he is a champion of all forms of civil disobedience) and suggested these medals be bought by the Congressman themselves — and put down $100 of his own money to start the pool. That’s how he thinks people should be recognized — by spending their own money, not the money of other people. No one else joined him. Why? In part, because it would look ‘racist’ to vote against giving a medal to Rosa Parks. He is willing to vote no not because he is racist, but because he is a man of integrity. A man willing to stand up for what he believes, even when he knows it’ll hurt him.
We hear all the time about how they slip terrible little bylaws into huge documents. We know they name bills things like ‘The Patriot Act’ so that our politicians are goaded into voting for them. Ron Paul stands up and says no. Everytime.
And so he gets labeled kook. Or racist. Or whatever else you want to name call him.
I have one word for what he represents: integrity. A level of integrity so alien to our current culture that it seems crazy. But it isn’t. It’s what we need to strive for.
It saddens me when great men are slandered for political gain. It saddens me when people sling words like ‘racist’ around without care, without fully doing their research.
Take it for what it’s worth. Ron Paul has taught me much about myself, and influenced how I view the world. And while I’m just one voice on the internet, I implore you to do your research. The man isn’t racist. He believes in the power of the individual – any individual. He abhors collectivist thought – that is, that we should be treated as members of a group, rather than individuals. He espouses liberty for all.
That’s really all I’ve got to say on the matter.
you are an idiot.
if paul is not a racist, then at the very least he is a supporter of racism by allowing a newsletter to use his name to distribute racist material for profit.
So your answer to fixing the problems with this country is to do nothing? To stop voting entirely? Who are you to give any of us advice if you’ve already taken yourself out of the game. Ron Paul is not the racist here, you are, with all of your “white man” talk. I agree that African Americans haven’t received a fair shake here in this country, but we aren’t going to fix the problem by going around advocating “Black rights,” “Latino rights,” “Gay rights,” etc, we fix the problem by advocating “rights”! Ron Paul is no puppet, his message has been the same for over 30 years, and hes been fighting for your civil liberties (the ones guaranteed by the constitution) for over 30 years. You ought to do some more research on his voting record before you dismiss him so quickly. You say that our system is comprised of one body with two heads. Ask yourself, why both of those heads are fighting so hard to keep Ron Paul out of the spotlight? Why are they trying to silence him so much? That’s easy, because he goes against everything the two party system stands for. He wants liberty restored to the people, all people. If you do your research and do it thoroughly I have no doubt that you too with vote Ron Paul in 2012!
Much thanks to the author for a fair article.
Yvette Carnell, thank you for taking an unbiased look at the issue (even if the other commenters won’t). Even if you may not agree with all of Paul’s beliefs, the idea that a man whose foreign policy consists of believing that we should put ourselves in the shoes of people of different nationalities around the world and consider how we would feel if our policies were applied to us before enacting them, who sees that one in three black men will spend time in prison, almost all of them for non-violent, victimless crimes, with more blacks currently in prison than there were slaves at the start of the civil war, and decides that it’s time to end the war on drugs and free as many blacks from prison as Lincoln freed from slavery, believing that someone like that is racist is a bit difficult.
You may not agree with all of his policies, I don’t either, but I’ll still be supporting him for President. Right now, the biggest issues facing our country are the corporate control of Washington, runaway military spending, corporate welfare, and regulatory agencies that are staffed by people from the industries they’re supposed to be regulating. Paul definitely has the better solutions on military spending and corporate welfare, and I think he would make progress on cleaning up our regulatory agencies in ways that Obama has been hesitant to. If you disagree, that’s fine, but at least you’re disagreeing on principles and policies, and recognize that the allegations of racism against him are exaggerated and irrelevant.
With some people racist mindsets inflame the less conscience of people to commit racist acts.And Ms.Carnell should be ashamed for advocating that more people should think like her.Racist feel the same.
Ron Paul is NOT the kindly looking old Libertarian that some Americans seem to think he is. I am glad that more attention is being paid to him because now the truth about him will soon be revealed. The reason is that nobody has attacked Pau up until nowl is (correctly) because he was considered to have no chance to actually win the GOP nomination, so debate moderators have not bothered to research his past, instead tossing off generalized questions that allow him to portray himself on his preferred terms. What is considerably alarming is his open affiliation with various hate groups around the nation. Ron Paul has received a $500 campaign donation from a white supremacist, and the Texas congressman doesn’t plan to return it. Why not? Even someone as racist as Gingrich or Perry would return a hate groups donation upon notice. His newsletter has become a sort of Mein Kempf for today’s hate groups around America and is the very reason he has become the candidate of choice for almost every one of them. No, Ms. Carnell should not be ashame of herself, it is not her that is advocating for people to think negatively against Ron Paul when it comes to the matter of race, Mr. Paul has done a great job of doing that all himself. His blind supporters keep arguing that he didn’t write the newsletters, my question is if he didn’t then who esle wrote? Why is his name attached to them? Remember in the 80’s and 90’s we didn’t have the same technology we have now. It was not as easy as it is now to produce a fake document such as this is purported to be. Ron Paul is indeed a racist. Need more proof? Here’s a link http://blogs4conservatives.wordpress.com/2007/12/21/ron-paul-and-don-black-photo-op/
Thanks for the link..a picture is worth a thousand words.
People are trying to force the weak evidence. Yes, he was careless in overseeing the publishing of his newsletters, but racism isn’t anywhere in his voting record, his old interviews or anywhere else.
I think Ron Paul’s wrong about most things, but unlike most in the GOP, he has taken a principled stand against torture/rendition/murdering of US citizens, against wars of choice, against Wall Street, and in favor of legalizing pot. Those are values which a lot of moderates and libs embrace.
I appreciate Yvette raising the issues.
ron paul believes in anarcho-capitalsim. just look it up. basically it means corporations get to thrive without regulations, public programs and property cease to exist and everyone else is left to fight for a tenth of what we have now. jobs will no longer require minimum wage nor clean/safe working areas. ron paul beilieves we should return to 1776 which was a generally horrible year for most of human life especially people of the sun
Although Paul has done quite weill in Iowa his supporters should not become too excited. Winning Iowa is simply winining Iowa there’s actually nothing significant about it. Ron Paul will not get the GOP bid, one reason he wants to get rid of the IRS and to most Americans that is a crazy idea. He wants to legalize drugs, can you imagine how far the murder rate would increase? It’s because of his warped ideas some people think he’s electable, because he says things the average politician would never say and to some that makes him appealing. But only after he takes office will they discover who he actually is and what he actually believes. However, I believe that eventhough Paul will not be the GOP nominee he will for sure become a spoiler to the GOP by running as a third party candidate. His racist past will come back to haunt him and it will be worst than Herman Cain’s adulterous past disclosures.
Any conversation about Ron “racist newsletter” Paul being president is a waste of time. Due to his accepting a donation from the former grand wizard of the Klu Klux Klan in 2008 makes him unelectable. When ask by news media if he would return the money he REFUSED! Ron Paul is either insane or a racist or both. Either way IMO he is UNFIT to hold any type of public office let alone the presidency. It doesn’t matter whether his racist views were in the 80 or 90s or we agree with some of the policies. I’m surprised this black writer is downplaying racism. Something we should learn from others who faced oppression like the Jewish people. NEVER FORGET.
I didn’t know Ron Paul is a liar and racist – particularly he hates Blacks. I don’t think he is going to win GOP nomination and WH. Sorry for him. A person is judged by his action not color of his skin or creed. Ron is another Herman Cain – only white. After all he’s too old for the job. As a whole I find the whole GOP candidate field racists. Therefore none of them qualifies for WH job.
People please, if your boss got financial endorsements from a KKK affiliate would you quit your job? What right do we have to base OUR votes on where a canidate’s funding comes from? Did all his endorsements come from KKK leadership? When we decide to take all monies into account then an accurate conclusion can be made. Our country is on the brink of economic meltdown while some of us choose to remain blinded and biased with the outcry of “Racist!” Never revere any politician as a saint or savior. But choose to listen, and educate yourself on who has the best chance of delivering future hope not only for you but your community as a whole.
My opinion is the newsletters have some unquestionably racist comments, but I take Ron Paul at his word that he didn’t write them nor does he believe these comments.
Listening to Ron Paul for years he is always preaching tolerance, neutrality on foreign policy (e.g. in Israel and Palestine, and equally valuing American and Iraqi, Pakistani, Afghanistan civilians that have died). He stands against Muslim and Gay bashing in debates with his own party when it is not politically popular, and didn’t participate in that Obama is a Kenyan racist campaign.
Believe what you want to believe. The questions have been asked and answered.
Personally as a brown progressive I support Ron Paul because of his foreign policy and the amount of lives and money saved from ending this militarism and breach of civil liberties that Obama has expanded since Bush, not retracted.
You definitely have every right to vote for the candidate of your choice. Ron Paul has been very attractive to the Hispanic community. Many of my Hispanic friends have tried to convince me to vote for him, I am amazed at their insistance especially after he stated that he would not kowtow to Hispanic voters. I’ll admit I am deeply impressed with his blatant honesty because a politician shouldn’t kowtow to any special interest. However, I can’t get away from his connection with hate groups. Hate groups do not stop at hating blacks and Jews, they hate anyone that is not White Anglo-Saxon Protestant. A reporter who worked with Paul back in the 80’s says that he did in fact write the now infamous hate-filled newsletter. Can you honestly say that this okay with you? If you can, please vote for him, but as for me I’ll stick with President Obama.
Why should he kowtow to anyone’s vote?
fair article. thanks.
First of all Ron Paul is not a racist. He is the best thing that the African Amercian community has at this point. He is kicking the establishment’s butt so they are trying to throw everything they can at him.
Ron Paul is a true libertarian that supports individual rights not rights that belongs to groups. Who has been very outspoken on the unfairness of the justice system and the drug and gun laws torwards minoroties. Read a book for a change rather than listening to whatever the mainstream media tells you. Notice this didn’t come out until he started winning!!!
“He is the best thing that the African Amercian community” This is YOUR opinion and it would be great if you were to indicate this. However, I wouldn’t expect you to because you’re not even comfortable with using your name. I need an explanation from Paul concerning his established ties with known hate groups before I’d even consider voting for him. If President Obama took a photo op with the leader of the New Black Panther party would you say that he is the best thing for America? Please don’t think that black Americans are so naive until they’d accept your opinion without identifying exactly who you are.
The newsletter story is very, very old news. Ron has explained all this in both his Congressional and Presidential campaigns. He did not write the newsletters and several experts have found that it is highly unlikely the quotes could be attributed to him (not because of the content because of the writing structure). Other experts have pointed out that none of the material in question conforms even remotely to anything else Ron has written or spoken in public in his 40 years of public service. Ron has also repeated apologized for his improper oversight of the newsletter’s content (many times each in several campaigns for Congress and for President). I have seen first hand that minority members in his Congressional district both sincerely love and trust this man as both a doctor and politician. This is a story handed out by political hit men of Ron’s opponents to lazy journalists who were too incompetent to do any background research to find that this is a settled issue with respectable journalists.
Maybe a “respectable journalist” will come foward to settle this issue and while he or she is at it I’d like to see if they could clear up the photo-op with the KKK issue as well.
ron paul also took and refused to return campaign donations from stromfront a viciuos white supremacist organization ans website.
ron paul espouses the elimination of the civil rights act, the voting rights act and would countenance the return of segregation to america throught his opposition to the public accomosation section f the civil rights act (which would in effect gut the civil rights act). these are not policies from twenty years ago that he espoused, but policies he advocates for now
He said the CRA of 1964 is a done deal. He’s making a principled arguement for less government when he broaches the subject. He said that a better way to handle the situation government created would be to repeal Jim Crow and give everyone equal protection under the Constitution. It has nothing to do with the mistreatment of black people, he is merely voicing his opinion on a better way to handle the situation. People have to take responsibility for their own governance, big government is the source for apathy in America because this type of governance doesnt leave any breathing room for the people. I’m sorry that you feel the way that you do, but if we hope for improved race relations, we have to stop calling each other racists when we disagree with one another.
“He said the CRA of 1964 is a done deal.”
and all ron paul is trying to do is make an end run around the civil rights act by advocating the elimination of the public accomodation section of the civil rights act. that would effectively gut the civil rights act.
“He’s making a principled arguement for less government when he broaches the subject. He said that a better way to handle the situation government created would be to repeal Jim Crow and give everyone equal protection under the Constitution”
small government has an abismal historical record rife with abuse and corruption. small government is impotent against corporations, political elites and local power holders. there is nothing principaled about advocating for a return of segregation.
and just how in heck do you end resistent unfairness unless you make laws against it? how would you suggest getting rid of jim crow without legislating against it?
“I’m sorry that you feel the way that you do, but if we hope for improved race relations, we have to stop calling each other racists when we disagree with one another.”
sorry, i am not willing to let you or other caucasians be the arbiter of racism for me. it seems to me that for too many caucasians your version of “improved race relation is for african americans to docilely accept it.
Thank you to the author for the integrity to speak out. That said, some of these black racist comments disturb me just as much as the comments of white racists. You’re free to have your uninformed opinion, just as the silly KKK types do, and I hope all such racists reform or rot in hell. For those who insist on believing what the “dirty tricks gang” has obviously been waiting to spring on thoughtless voters, I suggest you try thinking, for a change.
To speak out against racism is not racist, but because you I assume live in America you have a right to your opinion. When Dr. Paul walked away from the reporter’s question the way he did it spoke volumes. In 1996, he did an interview that showed that he was indeed the author of the racist newsletter, he didn’t act as if he didn’ remember the newsletter he owned up to the authorship. It seems to me that people now days have strange definitions of what racism really is. It is a belief that racial differences produces superior and inferior races. It amazes me how whites are crying racism with more frequency that of blacks these days. Ron Paul is a racist and it has finally caught up with him.
It is probably a waste of time to comment among the many “racist” comments here, but I would like to remind those of you, who are still supporting Obama, the half-white, 95% Arab resident in the White House, that he is selling ALL OF US all out to the Islamic Caliphate. He favors the killing of black babies, he, in fact, has done nothing for the thousands of black men rotting in prisons for non-violent drug crimes. What has he done for the black population? Nada! His and his little woman have been flitting around the world, having a grand old time spending your tax dollars on luxury vacations beyond our wildest dreams. He supports the Muslim Brotherhood and all things Muslim .. Ramadan in the White House, but nothing Christmas? He hopes to be the Grand Poo-Pah Caliph presiding over the Islamic World. Wake up .. minorities mean NOTHING to him. None of us do.
Speaking of racist comments, OBAMA IS NOT A MUSLIM!!! That is a lie straight from the bowel of hell. Why are people so stupid that they want to keep believing this lie. Obama is a Christian whether you like it or not, and if you don’t like it why don’t you go post your foolishness at one those neo-nazi or kkk websites that supports Ron Paul because we don’t need your sewage on this one.
It is not like Ron Paul could have given back the exact same 500 dollars that got donated to him from racists. It is true he could have given back 500 dollars of his campaign fund to them. But he would probably have to have spent around 500 dollars paying someone to look up all the data to make sure they actually made the contribution first. But does it not make more sense than for him to just use the money to spread his message of liberty? It is not like it was a huge donation that he had accepted but instead a “normal” contribution to a campaign. At the end of the day would it really be better if Ron Paul had 500 dollars or the racists did?
When it comes to the photo op was I understand it, that was on some sort of campaign event. Do you even know that Ron Paul know the political opinions of the people he took the photo with? He probably takes thousands of photos with people and it is not like he can know the political positions of all those people. A racist could pay to take a photo with Obama as well or any politician.
Now I do not know who wrote the newsletters and they are indeed bad. But compering them to what Ron Paul “normally” says it does not seem like him at all to me. He was one of few republicans who voted to repeal “do not ask do not tell” and being against it for some time. He wants to pardon all non violent drug offenders or at least he said so last campaign. He has had a rare change in political position and is now against the death penalty at the federal level, with one of the arguments being it is often used against people who are poor while the rich can get away from it. Lots more could be said about different issues. But when I look at his political positions it just does not seem like the opinions of a racist, homophobic and sexist person but that of a person who champions individual liberty and freedom.
I am sorry but it is extremely difficult for one to dismiss this photo-op with KKK Grand Wizard Don Black as simply a photo taken at a campaign stop just like any other candidate would do. Don Black, owner/operator of the largest White Nationalist forum in the world, had contributed $500 to the Paul campaign, and to my understanding he has funneled much more than that to the Paul campaign as well. It is hard to believe that Dr. Paul just didn’t know the political and racist beliefs of this top Klan leader. There is another home grown racist terrorist connected with Dr. Paul as well. His name is Bill White (not the former Houston Mayor), of the Roanoke Nazi and self-appointed “Commander” of the American National Socialist Party. Bill White is a full-blown anti-Semite. At any rate…Ron Paul has a lot of explaining to do. They need to explain why the Ron Paul for President campaign, including Ron Paul himself, regularly meets with neo-Nazis and white supremacists in order to coordinate on his presidential campaign. Up until now, it seems as if the Paul people are allowing their allegiance of Interner followers (such as yourself) to offer various explanations and this just won’t cut it. I am convinced that to Dr. Paul as it relates to these notorious hate group commanders good friends just are worth keeping despite the bad publicity. But in the end he is going to have to follow the route already taken by his disgraced fellow GOP candidate Herman Cain. Republican voters participating in the 2012 presidential primaries should think twice before voting for Ron Paul… unless they really do want an Aryan Nation, that is.
The photo is taken in some sort of room maybe a hotel lobby or something with other people around. I obviously do not know what happened. But I do not find it that strange if they where at some sort of campaign event and the two came up to Ron Paul to get a photo with him. I can only speak for myself but I do not know the face of most racist people on earh or leaders of racist organizations for that matter. If you are a politician you probably take thousands of these photos and I doubt you pay to much attention to the people you take the photo with. I doubt even more that you go around thinking their might be racists lurking around wanting to take a photo with you. But as I said I do not know what happened in this case but I am not going to assume the worst.
Ron Paul have had moneybombs where 5 000 000 dollars are donated in one day it is not like the 500 dollars he got is a make or break thing. At the end of the day the question is would it really be better for the racist group to have 500 dollars more. Or for Ron Paul to have it and use it to spread his message of liberty?
But lets look at hard core facts instead. What have Ron Paul said that you know for sure he said, written and voted for that would be racist, anti-semitism and homophobic? I know he has said he do not approve of the civil rights act. But that is him being a strict libertarian and there fore being against government telling private businesses what to do. Know you might disagree with him on that issue or other issues for that matter I do to. But that does not make him a racist that just means he and I have different view on some issues. Ron Paul has also taken tons of unpopular beliefs openly. Saying things that most political advisers would think is political suicide. But he have not cared and instead spoken of what he think and believes in, his positions on Iran being a recent case. Or him speaking out against the killing of Anwar al-Awlaki. Or him being against tons of popular government programs. Now with all this in mind does it really makes sense that he would be some secret racist? Why would he take so many views that are so unpopular and speak of them loud and clear but than hide others. That just does not seem like Ron Paul to me.
Anton, this particular photo was taken at the 2008 summit of a political group calling themselves “Value Voters” they are a political conference for American social conservative activists and elected officials across the United States. So far, the only two GOP candidates that this particular group has endorsed are Dr. Paul and Herman Cain. This group is most known for their strong opposition to abortion, same-sex marriage, and a strong national defense. Among their well-known supporters are Sean Hannity, Bill O’Reilly, and Ann Coulter. You may recall that this is also the group that mockingly sold boxes of “Obama Waffles” at their 2008 summit which was certainly racist and offensive. I know this sounds silly and that’s because it is, but other racist stereotypes about Blacks were featured on the Obama Waffles box; the
Rev. Jeremiah Wright made an appearance on the side. The Obama Waffles box at this particular summit attended by Paul and Don Black also includes stereotypes (reflecting fears) about Mexicans. This to me at least explains the presence of a well known Klan leader such as Don Black. A group calling themselves “values voters” and stooping to low life racism all the the while is definitely an oxymoron to say the least. Any politician to include the now defunct Herman Cain associated with this group deserves the scrutiny of the American public as to what their true motive may be. Ron Paul’s supporters include a mix of hippie-types looking for the legalization of certain drugs, anti-war activists, communists, anarchists, Neo-Nazi groups, and a few 9/11 Truthers sprinkled in for good measure. Once again, I am sorry but I am not convinced that Dr. Paul does not have a connection with Don Black’s Stromfront hate groups whose motto is “White Pride World Wide” and that he unknowingly smiled before the cameras with this well known racist. His handlers should have been there to warn him that this photo-op will indeed come back to bite him and it has. Dr. Paul’s connections with various hate groups to include the KKK just cannot be explained away. With this said, and as an ardent supporter of President Obama and the Democratic party I am pleased that Dr. Paul has so many supporters such as yourself, because it is estimated that if Dr. Paul does not receive the GOP nomination (and he won’t) the GOP will lose 27.5% of their Republican vote and that is huge. If you look at the other GOP contenders such as Gingrich and Romney you can’t help but realize that the GOP is in an extremely precarious position and for that I am very thankful to the good doctor Ron Paul.
Regardless of what is said or done, Ron Paul will never enter the doors of the White House as President of the United States. And as it goes, he will never receive any appointments he will merely retire as a Congressman which in itself is an honor.
From Glenn Greenwald:
“It’s perfectly rational and reasonable for progressives to decide that the evils of their candidate are outweighed by the evils of the GOP candidate, whether Ron Paul or anyone else. An honest line of reasoning in this regard would go as follows:
Yes, I’m willing to continue to have Muslim children slaughtered by covert drones and cluster bombs, and America’s minorities imprisoned by the hundreds of thousands for no good reason, and the CIA able to run rampant with no checks or transparency, and privacy eroded further by the unchecked Surveillance State, and American citizens targeted by the President for assassination with no due process, and whistleblowers threatened with life imprisonment for “espionage,” and the Fed able to dole out trillions to bankers in secret, and a substantially higher risk of war with Iran (fought by the U.S. or by Israel with U.S. support) in exchange for less severe cuts to Social Security, Medicare and other entitlement programs, the preservation of the Education and Energy Departments, more stringent environmental regulations, broader health care coverage, defense of reproductive rights for women, stronger enforcement of civil rights for America’s minorities, a President with no associations with racist views in a newsletter, and a more progressive Supreme Court.”