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Joe BidenCongratulations to our presumptive Democratic nominee, Joe Biden!
 

highplainsdem

(48,966 posts)
Wed May 8, 2019, 10:45 AM May 2019

Woman shouts 'you can hug and kiss me any time' to Joe Biden at presidential campaign rally

Tweet from the UK paper The Independent, minutes ago, with video.

You have to see Biden's reaction...


If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
87 replies = new reply since forum marked as read
Highlight: NoneDon't highlight anything 5 newestHighlight 5 most recent replies
Woman shouts 'you can hug and kiss me any time' to Joe Biden at presidential campaign rally (Original Post) highplainsdem May 2019 OP
Joe is absolutely priceless!! Siwsan May 2019 #1
My exact thoughts still_one May 2019 #77
i want a t shirt: JOE CAN HUG N KISS ME ANYTIME... samnsara May 2019 #2
That's not helpful. NurseJackie May 2019 #3
I have to agree with you LongtimeAZDem May 2019 #4
Yes.. the call outs are tacky. I think the sentiment may be pretty broadly out there, though. hlthe2b May 2019 #6
That's not helpful at all actually uawchild May 2019 #7
That woman identified herself to an NBC reporter as Libby Peterson. I haven't been able to find any highplainsdem May 2019 #9
Libby is a nickname for Elizabeth. nt woodsprite May 2019 #78
Think of the positive LibFarmer May 2019 #26
I'm sorry, but there's no way "You can hug me" equates with "You can grab my pussy." highplainsdem May 2019 #8
Thank you DownriverDem May 2019 #13
Actually... NurseJackie May 2019 #16
From what I've seen on social media, Biden's opponents on both left and right haven't stopped highplainsdem May 2019 #19
All I can tell you is that Ms. Peterson isn't helping anything. NurseJackie May 2019 #21
I don't think it will hurt Biden LibFarmer May 2019 #28
Why not just let it die? These types of constant reminders... NurseJackie May 2019 #29
Letting is die is not in Biden's LibFarmer May 2019 #31
Oh please! NurseJackie May 2019 #34
Oh ... I misunderstood LibFarmer May 2019 #56
So, how can he let it die? Drunken Irishman May 2019 #32
Defending and encouraging this type of tacky behavior... NurseJackie May 2019 #33
Yes. Humiliating a woman in front of a crowd is a real winner. Drunken Irishman May 2019 #35
Did I say that? NurseJackie May 2019 #36
Yes. Yes you did. Drunken Irishman May 2019 #37
You're seeing what you want to see. NurseJackie May 2019 #42
lol you think it's an excellent start to humiliate someone... Drunken Irishman May 2019 #67
If Biden can learn and grow and change, then it would serve him well if his supporters did the same. NurseJackie May 2019 #68
Post removed Post removed May 2019 #71
Not calling for Biden to do it from the podium as you implied. NurseJackie May 2019 #72
Mhm. So you have no point, then. Drunken Irishman May 2019 #73
... NurseJackie May 2019 #74
PS: ... NurseJackie May 2019 #75
You make an excellent point... I get it. InAbLuEsTaTe May 2019 #81
"That's an excellent start"??? You would have had him START with admonishing (scolding) her? highplainsdem May 2019 #38
I never said that and you know it. WE are the ones encouraging it... NurseJackie May 2019 #43
You DID say that, as Drunken Irishman pointed out. highplainsdem May 2019 #46
This is absurd. I can't be any clearer than I've already been. NurseJackie May 2019 #48
He is 30 or 40 points ahead and it will never end for those on the right and those who support other Demsrule86 May 2019 #55
Humor is dismissive to those who want to be heard. I think they can be heard without... NurseJackie May 2019 #60
Yep. Not the same thing. Glimmer of Hope May 2019 #49
Sad to say - that thought crossed my mind as well. bullwinkle428 May 2019 #10
Come on DownriverDem May 2019 #14
Not to me DownriverDem May 2019 #11
Exactly my first thought loyalsister May 2019 #24
I'd bet he gets a lot more of that... The women with whom I've spoken about this (older than 20s) hlthe2b May 2019 #5
He meant no harm DownriverDem May 2019 #12
No he clearly didn't and I think that is what has some women so upset about it all. hlthe2b May 2019 #15
How can people "all move on now" when loudmouth...hecklers like her keep bringing it up? NurseJackie May 2019 #18
+1 Celerity May 2019 #23
A hug from Joe is always good. Polly Hennessey May 2019 #52
Whether it's wanted or not, eh? NurseJackie May 2019 #53
not for all. JI7 May 2019 #70
My Wife & I Beatleman May 2019 #17
Don't insert yourself into a political campaign with something like this. WeekiWater May 2019 #20
It is extremely helpful to society if those who abuse ME TOO like the Biden accusers stop doing Demsrule86 May 2019 #57
This won't stop anything. Won't have an impact on anything. WeekiWater May 2019 #58
That is what I mean...these false accusations hurt the movement but apparently thankfully do not Demsrule86 May 2019 #59
Yes. And as you pointed out, it won't die naturally ucrdem May 2019 #62
Understandable. WeekiWater May 2019 #63
I always liked him as I met him and got one of his hugs in fact, Demsrule86 May 2019 #87
+1000. nt ecstatic May 2019 #83
I thought he handled it just fine. MineralMan May 2019 #22
So did I. And it wasn't just our opinion. You could tell from the highplainsdem May 2019 #25
I think it's safe to assume that the folks who would attend a Biden event... NurseJackie May 2019 #30
I hate to sound cynical Blue Owl May 2019 #27
It sure got into the papers in a hurry ucrdem May 2019 #40
I think it was probably meant to show support ucrdem May 2019 #39
+1,000,000 highplainsdem May 2019 #41
Why encourage it? Why excuse it? NurseJackie May 2019 #44
I think what she was saying was, we're with you ucrdem May 2019 #45
She may very well have been. But... NurseJackie May 2019 #50
Could be. Still, I think many also resent an obvious hit job. ucrdem May 2019 #51
Way to be dismissive... NurseJackie May 2019 #54
The way I read it is pushback against a destructive RW meme. ucrdem May 2019 #61
No I didn't see anything like that. NurseJackie May 2019 #65
A great response from Biden Politicub May 2019 #47
I'm so fucking tired of this being a joke. WhiskeyGrinder May 2019 #64
But Joe didn't make a joke out of it... 'cept the sign of the cross thing. InAbLuEsTaTe May 2019 #82
This makes me smile Gothmog May 2019 #66
she should have done it in a more personal setting JI7 May 2019 #69
Not helpful Ferrets are Cool May 2019 #76
Post removed Post removed May 2019 #79
Nobody remembers the "Trump can grab my..." lady? Iggo May 2019 #80
This wasn't Joe's fault though. ecstatic May 2019 #84
I'm not blaming him. Iggo May 2019 #85
It's a testament to how kooky our culture has become that this is even a thing. BannonsLiver May 2019 #86
 

Siwsan

(26,259 posts)
1. Joe is absolutely priceless!!
Wed May 8, 2019, 10:48 AM
May 2019
If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

still_one

(92,122 posts)
77. My exact thoughts
Wed May 8, 2019, 10:49 PM
May 2019
If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

samnsara

(17,615 posts)
2. i want a t shirt: JOE CAN HUG N KISS ME ANYTIME...
Wed May 8, 2019, 10:48 AM
May 2019

...a hell of a lot better than the Deplorables shirts said trump can grab their p***y...

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

NurseJackie

(42,862 posts)
3. That's not helpful.
Wed May 8, 2019, 10:49 AM
May 2019

It brings to mind the tacky and classless "you can grab my pussy" t-shirts and signs.

What good purpose does it serve for her to have said that?

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

LongtimeAZDem

(4,494 posts)
4. I have to agree with you
Wed May 8, 2019, 10:51 AM
May 2019
If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

hlthe2b

(102,217 posts)
6. Yes.. the call outs are tacky. I think the sentiment may be pretty broadly out there, though.
Wed May 8, 2019, 10:54 AM
May 2019
If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

uawchild

(2,208 posts)
7. That's not helpful at all actually
Wed May 8, 2019, 10:59 AM
May 2019

Could that woman have been a republican plant trying to keep this meme alive?

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Undecided
 

highplainsdem

(48,966 posts)
9. That woman identified herself to an NBC reporter as Libby Peterson. I haven't been able to find any
Wed May 8, 2019, 11:20 AM
May 2019
If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

woodsprite

(11,910 posts)
78. Libby is a nickname for Elizabeth. nt
Wed May 8, 2019, 10:56 PM
May 2019
If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

LibFarmer

(772 posts)
26. Think of the positive
Wed May 8, 2019, 01:00 PM
May 2019

One doesn't have to go looking for a dark cloud every time one sees a silver lining.

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

highplainsdem

(48,966 posts)
8. I'm sorry, but there's no way "You can hug me" equates with "You can grab my pussy."
Wed May 8, 2019, 11:00 AM
May 2019
If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

DownriverDem

(6,228 posts)
13. Thank you
Wed May 8, 2019, 11:40 AM
May 2019

Some folks are just trying too hard to attack Joe. I would love to see a Biden/Harris ticket.

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

NurseJackie

(42,862 posts)
16. Actually...
Wed May 8, 2019, 11:58 AM
May 2019
I'm sorry, but there's no way "You can hug me" equates with "You can grab my pussy."
Actually, what she said was "you can hug and kiss me any time".

And, what I actually said was: that not helpful, and that I thought it was tacky and classless. I also asked what good purpose it served. How is it helpful to pick at the scab and proclaim a great big "fuck-you" to reasonable people who did (and still do) find his overly affectionate (albeit "harmless'') behavior to be cringeworthy.
3. That's not helpful.
It brings to mind the tacky and classless "you can grab my pussy" t-shirts and signs.
What good purpose does it serve for her to have said that?


Look, I'm with you on the fact that it's been overplayed and that he meant no harm... it's just a loving and affectionate guy. Sure. We're on the same page. But not everyone feels that way, and those who don't have legitimate concerns and shouldn't be dismissed. And then there are those who don't care one way or the other, who haven't been paying attention... who'd likely forget the whole thing (or allow it to go unnoticed entirely) EXCEPT FOR PEOPLE LIKE THIS WOMAN who insist on "making it a thing".

So, what good purpose does it serve?
If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

highplainsdem

(48,966 posts)
19. From what I've seen on social media, Biden's opponents on both left and right haven't stopped
Wed May 8, 2019, 12:16 PM
May 2019

sniping at him over this. When I search for the name Biden alone or with various keywords, I keep seeing the same discredited charges, the same misinterpreted or even photohopped images, popping up.

So I don't think it hurts that Libby Peterson made her own feelings about this clear.

And I think Biden's reaction was funny and perfect, and that will help.

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

NurseJackie

(42,862 posts)
21. All I can tell you is that Ms. Peterson isn't helping anything.
Wed May 8, 2019, 12:25 PM
May 2019
So I don't think it hurts that Libby Peterson made her own feelings about this clear.
Yes, and that's the most important thing, I guess. She has the "right" to speak her mind about whatever she feels, regardless of the fallout.

Sadly, in the process of making "her own feelings clear" in such a public way, there are probably countless people who have now been introduced to the "controversy" for the first time... who are asking "what's THAT about?" And who'll get someone's version of what it was about... and who may have their opinions of Biden tainted as a result.

All I can tell you is that Ms. Peterson isn't helping anything.

And I think Biden's reaction was funny and perfect, and that will help.
Actually, what will "help" is if people like Ms. Peterson stop bringing it up unnecessarily. Honestly, it serves no good purpose. It's classless and tacky.
If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

LibFarmer

(772 posts)
28. I don't think it will hurt Biden
Wed May 8, 2019, 01:04 PM
May 2019

His hugging and kissing has been in the public eye for a long time and Lucy Flores did make headlines and lead stories for several days so it is baked in.

This gesture serves to pooh pooh all that brouhaha and showcases how harmless Joe Biden is.

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

NurseJackie

(42,862 posts)
29. Why not just let it die? These types of constant reminders...
Wed May 8, 2019, 01:14 PM
May 2019

Why not just let it die? These types of constant reminders only serve to keep it alive. I think it would just fade away otherwise. This woman isn't helping anything.

This gesture serves to pooh pooh all that brouhaha and showcases how harmless Joe Biden is.
That's one way to look at it. That's the message, obviously. But does it actually have that effect? Or are there other negative and unintended consequences from people CONSTANTLY bringing it up over and over?

I had to chuckle to myself when I recently read someone suggest that we should "move on" by defending and encouraging behavior like this which is clearly the furthest thing from "moving on" that there could be.
If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

LibFarmer

(772 posts)
31. Letting is die is not in Biden's
Wed May 8, 2019, 01:28 PM
May 2019

or anyone else's hands.

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

NurseJackie

(42,862 posts)
34. Oh please!
Wed May 8, 2019, 01:38 PM
May 2019

You know perfectly well that's not what I'm talking about. What IS in our hands is the acceptance and encouragement and validation of those who insist on continually bringing up this kind of shit.

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

LibFarmer

(772 posts)
56. Oh ... I misunderstood
Wed May 8, 2019, 04:09 PM
May 2019

I agree with you actually now that I got it.

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

Drunken Irishman

(34,857 posts)
32. So, how can he let it die?
Wed May 8, 2019, 01:31 PM
May 2019

Not hold rallies? Admonish the woman in front of the world about how trivial she's being? It's not like Joe got up there and made a joke like a few weeks ago.

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

NurseJackie

(42,862 posts)
33. Defending and encouraging this type of tacky behavior...
Wed May 8, 2019, 01:37 PM
May 2019
Admonish the woman in front of the world about how trivial she's being?
That's an excellent start.

It's not like Joe got up there and made a joke like a few weeks ago.
The time for "jokes" is over. It's passed. Let it fucking die!

Defending and encouraging this type of tacky behavior (as is now being done) is of no help and it serves no good purpose.
If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

Drunken Irishman

(34,857 posts)
35. Yes. Humiliating a woman in front of a crowd is a real winner.
Wed May 8, 2019, 01:43 PM
May 2019

That'll go over well. Embarrassing a woman who likely was just trying to be cute, in front of a large crowd, and to what would likely turn out to be a television audience, is about the dumbest response he could have done. It wouldn't change anything. It'd just make him look like a dick.

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

NurseJackie

(42,862 posts)
36. Did I say that?
Wed May 8, 2019, 01:47 PM
May 2019
Humiliating a woman in front of a crowd is a real winner.
Oh, good god! Did I say that?

It's HERE (and other internet venues, platforms) that she's being cheered-on and encouraged and validated. She doesn't deserve "high-fives" and "atta-girls".

Embarrassing a woman who likely was just trying to be cute, in front of a large crowd,
Let her "be cute" in the rope-line... privately... or during the meet and greets and photos.

is about the dumbest response he could have done. It wouldn't change anything. It'd just make him look like a dick.
Nobody is suggesting that, except you.



If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

Drunken Irishman

(34,857 posts)
37. Yes. Yes you did.
Wed May 8, 2019, 01:54 PM
May 2019
Admonish the woman in front of the world about how trivial she's being?



That's an excellent start.


How does one do that without putting her on blast?

It's HERE (and other internet venues, platforms) that she's being cheered-on and encouraged and validated. She doesn't deserve "high-fives" and "atta-girls".


You're confused. Or you're replying to the wrong thread. My question was how HE (Biden) could let it die. Your response is the context of that comment, so, don't roll your eyes at me for pointing out the silliness of your argument. we weren't talking about internet venues or DU - I was specifically talking about how BIDEN can let it die.

You can re-read my post here since you're confused:

https://www.democraticunderground.com/?com=view_post&forum=1287&pid=111235

But if you don't want to click it, I'll post it:




32. So, how can he let it die?

Not hold rallies? Admonish the woman in front of the world about how trivial she's being? It's not like Joe got up there and made a joke like a few weeks ago.


Your response to the part in bold:

That's an excellent start.


So, yeah, you did say that. Unless you feel he could admonish her IN FRONT OF THE WORLD without utterly humiliating her by putting her on blast.


If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

NurseJackie

(42,862 posts)
42. You're seeing what you want to see.
Wed May 8, 2019, 02:36 PM
May 2019
That's an excellent start. It's absolutely an excellent start... RIGHT HERE where all the "high-fives" and "atta-girls" are coming from.

You can re-read my post here since you're confused:
Oh good lord. I haven't insulted you. Why are you insulting me? You may not agree with me, but that's no reason to insult my intelligence or mental state.

But if you don't want to click it, I'll post it:
GMAFB! I know what I said. And you know perfectly well that the accusations being hurled at me are just pretzel twisting and misinterpretation of what I actually said.

Unless you feel he could admonish her IN FRONT OF THE WORLD without utterly humiliating her
Not once did I say that HE (Biden) should do anything. It's OUR reactions and encouragements that infuriate me. There's no good reason to encourage this type of classless and tacky behavior. It only encourages others to do the same. It only keeps this front and center when it needs to be forgotten and put behind us.

I think it's astounding that anyone could suggest that we "move on" yet in the same post, ALSO defend this crap and encourage more of the same? How exactly does that allow people, Biden, and the party to "move on"??? (It doesn't.)

Her "cuteness" was unnecessary and harmful... and our response to it only AMPLIFIES the harm.

"Putting her on blast" makes no sense to me. I don't know what this means, so I can't respond... but whatever it is, I'm sure it has nothing to do with what I actually said.
If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

Drunken Irishman

(34,857 posts)
67. lol you think it's an excellent start to humiliate someone...
Wed May 8, 2019, 07:46 PM
May 2019

That's just sad. We're not talking about DU. I specifically told you this was about Biden and what he could do. Calling her out would have made it a much bigger issue and made him look like a dick.

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

NurseJackie

(42,862 posts)
68. If Biden can learn and grow and change, then it would serve him well if his supporters did the same.
Wed May 8, 2019, 08:26 PM
May 2019
you think it's an excellent start to humiliate someone...
Yes, bad behavior should be shamed. Exactly. His supporters and all decent people should be the ones to do it. Reject the classless and tacky behavior that we saw in that outburst. Don't encourage it. It serves no good purpose.

Calling her out would have made it a much bigger issue and made him look like a dick.
For the last time: Not once did I say that HE (Biden) should do anything. It's OUR reactions and encouragements that infuriate me. There's no good reason to encourage this type of classless and tacky behavior. It only encourages others to do the same. It only keeps this front and center when it needs to be forgotten and put behind us.

Put it to bed and quit taunting and ridiculing the people that his odd behavior was a trigger for. It's now national news: The Independent, twitter, CBS. The whole thing starts all over again because of one loudmouth who's trying to be "cute". It serves no good purpose to encourage that type of behavior.

Cut it out.

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden

Response to NurseJackie (Reply #68)

 

NurseJackie

(42,862 posts)
72. Not calling for Biden to do it from the podium as you implied.
Wed May 8, 2019, 09:42 PM
May 2019

I stand by my words. Her outburst was classless and a lapse of good judgement. It should be rejected, not encouraged.

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

Drunken Irishman

(34,857 posts)
73. Mhm. So you have no point, then.
Wed May 8, 2019, 09:44 PM
May 2019
If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

InAbLuEsTaTe

(24,122 posts)
81. You make an excellent point... I get it.
Wed May 8, 2019, 11:28 PM
May 2019

Bernie & Elizabeth 2020!!!
Welcome to the revolution!!!
If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Undecided
 

highplainsdem

(48,966 posts)
38. "That's an excellent start"??? You would have had him START with admonishing (scolding) her?
Wed May 8, 2019, 02:00 PM
May 2019

Wow. That would have made him look like a pompous ass.

Have you EVER seen ANYONE on a stage respond to anyone in the audience shouting something like that with a sanctimonious lecture?

Do you think that would somehow have helped Biden?

Btw, what should he have followed the scolding with, since you thought that was just a start? Should he have asked her to take classes in Faux Outrage 101 taught by Lucy Flores? Or maybe asked her to wear a black armband for at least a year to show solidarity with the women who came forward with those ridiculous and apparently politically motivated complaints about him?

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

NurseJackie

(42,862 posts)
43. I never said that and you know it. WE are the ones encouraging it...
Wed May 8, 2019, 02:45 PM
May 2019
You would have had him START with admonishing (scolding) her?
I never said that and you know it. WE (collectively) are the ones encouraging it and we should instead be DISCOURAGING it. Not cheering. Not high-fiving. Not giving kudos.

The rest of your post applies to nothing.

If given a chance, this shit would die on its own. Why continue to feed it? Why encourage this type of classless and tacky behavior. It's not "cute". It just keeps it in the headlines.

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

highplainsdem

(48,966 posts)
46. You DID say that, as Drunken Irishman pointed out.
Wed May 8, 2019, 03:04 PM
May 2019

You were responding to his reply 32:

So, how can he let it die?

Not hold rallies? Admonish the woman in front of the world about how trivial she's being? It's not like Joe got up there and made a joke like a few weeks ago.



Your response, the one I was responding to in my message above, was reply 33:

Defending and encouraging this type of tacky behavior...

Admonish the woman in front of the world about how trivial she's being?

That's an excellent start.

It's not like Joe got up there and made a joke like a few weeks ago.

The time for "jokes" is over. It's passed. Let it fucking die!

Defending and encouraging this type of tacky behavior (as is now being done) is of no help and it serves no good purpose.



Drunken Irishman was clearly asking what Joe Biden should do, and you said that admonishing the woman in front of the world would be an excellent start.

Then, when he responded to that, you denied you'd said it. As you're doing now, after I responded to what you said.

Sigh.

Btw, I don't see anyone here encouraging this behavior.

And if you think a DU discussion keeps something in the headlines...
If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

NurseJackie

(42,862 posts)
48. This is absurd. I can't be any clearer than I've already been.
Wed May 8, 2019, 03:12 PM
May 2019

This is absurd. I can't be any clearer than I've already been. You're on your own from here on out.

And if you think a DU discussion keeps something in the headlines...
This was on twitter, the Independent and all over the internet. Not just here.

Btw, I don't see anyone here encouraging this behavior.
Right. Uh-huh.
If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

Demsrule86

(68,543 posts)
55. He is 30 or 40 points ahead and it will never end for those on the right and those who support other
Wed May 8, 2019, 04:08 PM
May 2019

candidates...so I think humor helps.

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

NurseJackie

(42,862 posts)
60. Humor is dismissive to those who want to be heard. I think they can be heard without...
Wed May 8, 2019, 04:28 PM
May 2019

Humor is dismissive to those who want to be heard. I think they can be heard without "selling out" Biden. It's not just "those on the right" ... there are Biden supporters who found his overly-affectionate nuzzling and sniffing and caressing to be entirely inappropriate and cringe-inducing. Now I'll say that his behavior didn't bother ME the same way it bothers others, but at the same time, I'm not going to be dismissive or ridicule their feelings with humor. Many of those same individuals are very pleased that Biden has taken it as a teaching moment, a learning moment, and that he'll endeavor to be a better man and human being. I just find it astonishing that among his supporters are a handful who refuse to accept that as being a positive thing, and who apparently aren't satisfied with allowing people to find personal satisfaction and comfort in knowing that they were heard... and that their voices made a difference. Instead it's just the opposite. The ones who were content in being heard are now being ridiculed and mocked. How exactly does that help anything? They were ready to move on... but aren't being allowed to. What purpose does that serve?

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

Glimmer of Hope

(5,823 posts)
49. Yep. Not the same thing.
Wed May 8, 2019, 03:17 PM
May 2019

Geez...

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

bullwinkle428

(20,629 posts)
10. Sad to say - that thought crossed my mind as well.
Wed May 8, 2019, 11:27 AM
May 2019

I'm not blaming Joe for it at all; I just can't think it's all that helpful.

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

DownriverDem

(6,228 posts)
14. Come on
Wed May 8, 2019, 11:41 AM
May 2019

I find it funny. He's a great guy.

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

DownriverDem

(6,228 posts)
11. Not to me
Wed May 8, 2019, 11:37 AM
May 2019

She meant it. Those of us who have followed Joe for years know he never meant any harm. It's others pushing their views of him that are so wrong.

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

loyalsister

(13,390 posts)
24. Exactly my first thought
Wed May 8, 2019, 12:38 PM
May 2019

It also ridicules women who would dare suggest a well liked man made her feel uncomfortable when it did not involve violent rape.

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Undecided
 

hlthe2b

(102,217 posts)
5. I'd bet he gets a lot more of that... The women with whom I've spoken about this (older than 20s)
Wed May 8, 2019, 10:51 AM
May 2019

have all felt angry that true sexual misbehavior had been conflated with a mere innocent touch. I have pointed out that sensitivity to touch and approach was likely more common now, given the number of autistic spectrum people among us and those who have experienced sexual assault... While that did get some nods of understanding, the majority had issues with women willingly approaching the VP, yet being uncomfortable expressing a simple request not to hug or touch. Maybe I understand the latter a bit more, having worked with victims of violence in prior times of my life, but there is certainly some backlash to what has happened, at least in my limited circles.

BTW, I'm not saying this is limited to those in their 30s, 40s, 50s--just that I haven't had any opportunity to discuss it with those in their 20s (or younger).

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

DownriverDem

(6,228 posts)
12. He meant no harm
Wed May 8, 2019, 11:38 AM
May 2019

and has gotten the message. Let's all move on now, okay?

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

hlthe2b

(102,217 posts)
15. No he clearly didn't and I think that is what has some women so upset about it all.
Wed May 8, 2019, 11:42 AM
May 2019

I think it is also a lesson for the media. Women are not all thinking in "lockstep" and should not be treated as a monolith.

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

NurseJackie

(42,862 posts)
18. How can people "all move on now" when loudmouth...hecklers like her keep bringing it up?
Wed May 8, 2019, 12:07 PM
May 2019
Let's all move on now, okay?
How can people "all move on now" when loudmouth attention-seeking hecklers like her keep bringing it up? What good purpose does it serve?

Why defend or encourage things like this? It only keeps it at the forefront... it only serves as a reminder of what was said before... and for those who happened to be completely unaware the first time around, it just MAKES them aware.

How is this a good thing?

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

Polly Hennessey

(6,793 posts)
52. A hug from Joe is always good.
Wed May 8, 2019, 03:55 PM
May 2019
If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

NurseJackie

(42,862 posts)
53. Whether it's wanted or not, eh?
Wed May 8, 2019, 04:04 PM
May 2019
If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

Beatleman

(29 posts)
17. My Wife & I
Wed May 8, 2019, 12:05 PM
May 2019

would welcome a hug or kiss from Him,,,Anytime

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

WeekiWater

(3,259 posts)
20. Don't insert yourself into a political campaign with something like this.
Wed May 8, 2019, 12:23 PM
May 2019

It's just not cool. I get that a lot of people are upset about how Biden was attacked and the mockery many of those attacks made of the metoo movement but this isn't the most helpful thing. It's become a positive for Biden but it's not helpful to society as a whole.

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

Demsrule86

(68,543 posts)
57. It is extremely helpful to society if those who abuse ME TOO like the Biden accusers stop doing
Wed May 8, 2019, 04:12 PM
May 2019

this and using it for political advantage or whatever. It should be for those women who have suffered sexual assault (me) and/ or sexual harassment. Such despicable women like Flores and the others have an agenda, and they hurt the real victims. They should be ashamed as this sort of thing will destroy Me TOO.

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

WeekiWater

(3,259 posts)
58. This won't stop anything. Won't have an impact on anything.
Wed May 8, 2019, 04:24 PM
May 2019

It’s borderline insignificant. Let Biden have the stage.

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

Demsrule86

(68,543 posts)
59. That is what I mean...these false accusations hurt the movement but apparently thankfully do not
Wed May 8, 2019, 04:27 PM
May 2019

hurt a decent man like Joe...it ruined Al Franken. And I am sick of it.

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

ucrdem

(15,512 posts)
62. Yes. And as you pointed out, it won't die naturally
Wed May 8, 2019, 04:32 PM
May 2019

because it never lived naturally. It was a hit job, and the RW noise machine is going to beat that dead mule 24/7 once the race is on.

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

WeekiWater

(3,259 posts)
63. Understandable.
Wed May 8, 2019, 04:42 PM
May 2019

From the beginning I have said that Biden is one of the best men you will find. He has some patriarchal tendencies but his closeness and compassion knows no gender. From early on I said the attacks would help him. People hat seeing a very good person attacked. Add the appearance of the attacks being coordinated and how they became more and more overblown it was guaranteed to help him. Pissed me off. I was not in his corner before the attacks.

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

Demsrule86

(68,543 posts)
87. I always liked him as I met him and got one of his hugs in fact,
Thu May 9, 2019, 11:18 PM
May 2019

He is a good man and a great campaigner. I worked both. the 2008 and 2012 elections. Biden helped a great deal with Ohio and the rustbelt.

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

MineralMan

(146,286 posts)
22. I thought he handled it just fine.
Wed May 8, 2019, 12:31 PM
May 2019

That's just my opinion, of course.

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

highplainsdem

(48,966 posts)
25. So did I. And it wasn't just our opinion. You could tell from the
Wed May 8, 2019, 12:46 PM
May 2019

laughter that people there weren't upset about it, and they loved his response.

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

NurseJackie

(42,862 posts)
30. I think it's safe to assume that the folks who would attend a Biden event...
Wed May 8, 2019, 01:20 PM
May 2019
You could tell from the laughter that people there weren't upset about it,
I think it's safe to assume that the folks who would attend a Biden event (at this early stage) are likely to be strong or enthusiastic Biden supporters, in the first place. Therefore, I think it's a mistake to try and use reaction of that particular crowd as a way to measure the sentiments of the rest of the electorate.

Why give anyone any reason to be unenthusiastic about our party's nominee (if he ends up being the nominee)?
If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

Blue Owl

(50,347 posts)
27. I hate to sound cynical
Wed May 8, 2019, 01:03 PM
May 2019

But these days there could easily be a Jacob Wohl-level operative looking for Diamond Joe to make a little error they could inflate into a giant smear campaign...

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

ucrdem

(15,512 posts)
40. It sure got into the papers in a hurry
Wed May 8, 2019, 02:03 PM
May 2019

Very good point.

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

ucrdem

(15,512 posts)
39. I think it was probably meant to show support
Wed May 8, 2019, 02:02 PM
May 2019

The issue is already out there so I don't see the harm. And Joe had the perfect response.

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

NurseJackie

(42,862 posts)
44. Why encourage it? Why excuse it?
Wed May 8, 2019, 02:48 PM
May 2019
I don't see the harm.
The harm is that it's a constant reminder that keeps stories like this in the "headlines" an in the front of people's minds. It's a distraction. Why encourage it? Why excuse it?

She was already "showing support" by attending. If she had to say anything, she should have done it privately. Aside from that she's just an attention-seeking heckler.
If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

ucrdem

(15,512 posts)
45. I think what she was saying was, we're with you
Wed May 8, 2019, 03:02 PM
May 2019

and we never bought that bill of goods. It might have sounded at first like a heckle, but I don't think it was. And Joe gave about the best possible response.

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

NurseJackie

(42,862 posts)
50. She may very well have been. But...
Wed May 8, 2019, 03:25 PM
May 2019
I think what she was saying was, we're with you
She may very well have been. But the effects of that (and those who "atta-girl" and "high-five" and "fist-pump" in response to her heckling is more harmful than helpful.

This is a story that's ready to die on its own. Except for the fact that some people refuse to let it die... instead they'd rather pour salt in the wounds of people who ARE still upset about Biden's behavior. You can include me among those who argue "it was harmless" and "he didn't know better (but now he does)" ... but I think it's exceedingly important to stop being so dismissive of those who continue to believe otherwise... those who deeply and sincerely find it to be offensive and invasive.

It's been my observations that most of those individuals have been willing to "let it go" and hope that the wounds heal... or to simply remain silent and take-one-for-the-team. If ONLY we didn't have offensive and tacky and classless hecklers like that trying to remind us if it... and if only we didn't have folks (here and elsewhere on the internet) cheering her on and validating it.

That kind of behavior isn't helping. It only serves to create resentment and distrust among many who have strong feelings about this subject.

Just let it die. You can't "move on" if people keep talking about it and if people keep encouraging others to talk about it in ways that only offend those who believe their message and concerns were heard, and who are trying to move on. But it's kinda hard for them to do that when they get constant reminders like this that they don't matter.

I can't make it any clearer than that. Either one gets it, or not. And if it still doesn't make sense, that's a shame, because I'm done explaining it. Done.

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

ucrdem

(15,512 posts)
51. Could be. Still, I think many also resent an obvious hit job.
Wed May 8, 2019, 03:38 PM
May 2019

Kissing and hugging in public are part of our political discourse and have been for a long time. So the oppo guys don't get to rewrite the rules whenever it suits their guy. That's the message I think she's trying to send, and I think she succeeded.

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

NurseJackie

(42,862 posts)
54. Way to be dismissive...
Wed May 8, 2019, 04:05 PM
May 2019
Still, I think many also resent an obvious hit job.
Yes. But I think there can be no denying what others have observed for many many years. This "hit job" wouldn't have taken-root otherwise, would it? There can be no denying that this was fertile ground.

That's the message I think she's trying to send, and I think she succeeded.
Way to be dismissive of everyone who genuinely and honestly found his behavior to be creepy, inappropriate and invasive. Personally, his behavior and actions didn't bother me, but I can see how it would be offensive and uncomfortable to others, and I think it's important to respect the feelings of those who were (and are) troubled by it.

Kissing and hugging in public are part of our political discourse and have been for a long time.
Nobody is talking about celebrity air-kissing and sideways-shoulder-touch/back-pat hugs. What people found to be offensive and inappropriate was much more than that, it was the stuff that was more intimate, and you know it.

Why would anyone feel that it's necessary to intentionally do or say things to aggravate something that's on the cusp of dying a natural death and just fading away? Why the big "fuck you" to those who were sincerely and genuinely disturbed at watching his inappropriately affectionate behavior?

That's the only message she 'succeeded' in sending. The reactions to it just poured salt in the still tender and still healing wounds.

What good purpose does that serve?
If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

ucrdem

(15,512 posts)
61. The way I read it is pushback against a destructive RW meme.
Wed May 8, 2019, 04:30 PM
May 2019

So in that sense, it's good.

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

NurseJackie

(42,862 posts)
65. No I didn't see anything like that.
Wed May 8, 2019, 04:52 PM
May 2019

The only "compilation" I've observed comes from my own memory over the course of a dozen years that he's been on my radar. What I saw was not personally horrifying or disturbing to me, I simply saw it as odd. But I can see and understand how the sniffing and nuzzling and caressing and rubbing would be a trigger for many.

The way I read it is pushback against a destructive RW meme.
I understand where you're coming from. I understand he heckler didn't MEAN to be harmful or dismissive... just as Biden didn't MEAN to cause others (or observers) discomfort or feeling invaded.

If Biden can show growth and understanding and acknowledge those who have expressed their feelings, if he can show respect by pledging to be more thoughtful and aware... why then is is so hard for his most ardent supporters to do the same? Why give high-fives and back-slaps and atta-girls when a boisterous supporter shows a lack of good judgement by blurting out something like that?

And I'll even concede that in the excitement and emotive moment (not having time for reflective consideration) it seems only natural that others would join in and cheer on that type of crass and classless outburst. But now we're no longer "in the moment" and we've had time to reflect and consider. But sadly, even in the intervening hours, and even after hearing from the voices of those who were most deeply affected by such things... there's still a defiant and harmful "fuck-you/grow-up" and "in-your-face-crybabies" attitude that I don't fully understand the motivation for.

You and I are now going in circles too. We'll probably NEVER agree, but I think we understand each other's positions. If there's something that you genuinely don't understand, let me know and I'll give it another shot. Aside from that, I think we're done and have take this about as far as we can.

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

Politicub

(12,165 posts)
47. A great response from Biden
Wed May 8, 2019, 03:07 PM
May 2019

He is serious when he needs to be, and makes people laugh, too. Humor is an important rhetorical skill. A lot of our candidates come across as very serious, which appeals to me as someone who is wonky, but makes my husband want to change the channel.

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

WhiskeyGrinder

(22,323 posts)
64. I'm so fucking tired of this being a joke.
Wed May 8, 2019, 04:49 PM
May 2019
If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Undecided
 

InAbLuEsTaTe

(24,122 posts)
82. But Joe didn't make a joke out of it... 'cept the sign of the cross thing.
Wed May 8, 2019, 11:30 PM
May 2019

But, hey, that's progress!!


Bernie & Elizabeth 2020!!!
Welcome to the revolution!!!

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Undecided
 

JI7

(89,246 posts)
69. she should have done it in a more personal setting
Wed May 8, 2019, 09:23 PM
May 2019

like if he was shaking hands and he was going to shake her hand, just ask for a hug then.

while I think Flores and since others were full of shit based in evidence I don't doubt some others could have been uncomfortable without thinking there was any bad intent to it

it's not the fact that she wants to hug him that is the problem but more that it comes off as a rebuke to those who actually could be uncountable.

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Undecided

Response to highplainsdem (Original post)

 

Iggo

(47,548 posts)
80. Nobody remembers the "Trump can grab my..." lady?
Wed May 8, 2019, 11:18 PM
May 2019

This is not a good look.

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Undecided
 

ecstatic

(32,681 posts)
84. This wasn't Joe's fault though.
Wed May 8, 2019, 11:35 PM
May 2019

And yes, the grab my pussy trumper is the first thing I thought of. Still, apples and oranges.

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Joe Biden
 

Iggo

(47,548 posts)
85. I'm not blaming him.
Wed May 8, 2019, 11:39 PM
May 2019

But it's apples and apples, straight up.

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Undecided
 

BannonsLiver

(16,366 posts)
86. It's a testament to how kooky our culture has become that this is even a thing.
Wed May 8, 2019, 11:58 PM
May 2019

Bonkers.

If I were to vote in a presidential
primary today, I would vote for:
Undecided
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