Michael Smerconish lit up the phone lines and filled his in-box this morning at his WPHT show with word that he's planning to vote for Barack Obama -- marking the first time since he registered to vote 28 years ago that he'll pull the Democrat lever for president.
He'll explain all in his Sunday column in The Inquirer's Currents section -- as much as he can do in 750 words. The intro reads: "John McCain is an honorable man who has served his country well. But he will not get my vote."
In a chat this afternoon, Smerconish acknowledged that most of the callers and e-mails were scathing, capping months of criticism that began when Smerconish invited Obama to speak on the air. "They never wanted me to welcome Obama in the first place," he said. In the spring, Smerconish announced that if he were a Democrat, he'd prefer Obama over Hillary Clinton.
Smerconish's associations with John McCain date back years. I remember a Smerconish "book club" appearance with McCain at the Downtown Club in December 2005 that was a veritable love-in for the Arizona senator.
Smerconish also acknowledged that this "coming out" might hurt his career nationally. He's been a frequent guest on and fill-in host for big names such as Glenn Beck and Bill O'Reilly -- both of whom wear their conservativism loudly and proudly.
Which is the case with most talk radio today. As a Republican -- and Smerconish was a HUD administrator here under Bush 41 and he spoke on behalf of 43 here in 2004 -- Smerconish's politics have been frequently mislabeled as "conservative."
"Take a look at idealogues who dominate the [talk] industry today," he told me. "Nobody who straddles [the local and national scene] like I do has success at a national level unless they work at the ends of the political spectrum. I'm never going to be Rachel Maddow or Keith Olbermann." He agreed that making his decision public was "not in my professional best interest, but it's how I see it. Mine is an opinion, purely based on a lot of circumspection. I'm fortunate that I've chatted with both, been in their presence, so this is not uninformed decision."
That said, "I'm not telling people what they ought to do. Do whatever you want."
He said he would not leave the Republican Party. Should McCain lose, he said he thinks there will be a battle for the direction of the party, and he wants to be involved in the debate. He sees the GOP as becoming "less directed at conservative elements."
Posted by Michael Klein @ 3:26 PM
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112 comments
"Just as Air America went away, so will this pathetic hack!"
Well that didn't pan out did it?
I find it refreshing that Michael refuses to simply tow the party line. Right wingers like Limbaugh are just as disturbing to me as the far left. Limbaugh says that if you're in the middle or independent, then you are jello. I feel that anyone who agrees with 100% of everything from one party or the other is a sheep who can not form his or her own opinion. That being said, I am disappointed in Michael's endorsement. Doesn't Obama's associations mean anything? Wright? Ayres? These are dangerous people behind this candidate, and I can't find it in myself to ignore that.
Haha. The GOP is falling apart.
I can not imagine how one reconciles a vote for Obama. He openly expresses socialist doctine, worshipped at the knee of an anti-american racist...oh, forget. America doesn't care..and i guess neither does Smerconish. When will experience, character and policy matter? not this election. what a joke.
Did Smearconish actually say 'this would be bad for my career nationally',,,get out the MUZZLE-METER! Have you checked who gets hired in the mainstream media--YOU will be a hero, a darling, and soon enough you will get that full time job you have coveted so much on the TV,,,,,sad. Let's just hope Obama doesn't pardon Mumia.
Michael,
I would like to thank you for proving me right. From the first time I heard you on Sunday mornings on Channel 6, I referred to you as a fake conservative. You can not possibly go on thinking you are a Republican knowing that you are voting for the most liberal man ever to run for President of The United States. Outside of career suicide, (which doesnt bother me because I listen to the true conservative radio station -990 and stick to 1210 only for Phillies Games) is explaining to Mrs. Faullkner and other Philadelphia residents that you helped vote for the man (if he wins) who will appoint Supreme Court Justices that will overturn the conviction of Wesley Cooke (Mumia Abu-Jamal). Good luck with your new position, host of the daily farm news in Lancaster.
Hypocrite Smerconish, lets see he screams about the associations Mumia has, and all those supporters, yet he doesn't hold BHO accountable for his "associations". And to think I bought this guy's books and supported his views. He can rationalize away Ayers just like EVERY Abu-Jamal supporter/associate rationalizes away Jamal's guilt. Sorry Michael doesn't pass the sniff test. Let's hope fate doesn't have a sour twist with Smerconih's support for MSNBC's Obama, turns into a last day pardon for Mumia. Oh, Michael, call Jon Murta councilman in NYC and ask him if his family felt the terrorist threat on his home was something that could be rationalized. Ask my father whose police station was bombed by these nuts. Obama's radical leanings are too much. As the great Philly radio host Irv Homer used to say "if it smells like a duck, walks like a duck, it is a duck"...well Michael my vote is cast- Bill Bennet. You my friend has been muzzled.
I voted today-Bill Bennet. As a former avid listener of Smerconish, I am gone. He destroys ALL that are associates of Abu-Jamal, BUT he quickly rationalizes the Ayers situation. In a strange twist of irony lets PRAY that Abu-Jamal is NOT pardoned by Obama- wouldn't that be fitting Smerconish!? He fell in love with the 'race' speech- well since then BHO has disowned his former spiritual advisor despite saying he couldn't, and he and his surrogates bring up race every place they can...except where they should in NOTING that 95% of blacks are voting for BHO, yep that is racist (ie-Powell). Well, Smerconish will loose listeners but just think how many TV viewers he will get on MSNBC, what a great interviewer he is!
I voted today-Bill Bennet. As a former avid listener of Smerconish, I am gone. He destroys ALL that are associates of Abu-Jamal, BUT he quickly rationalizes the Ayers situation. In a strange twist of irony lets PRAY that Abu-Jamal is NOT pardoned by Obama- wouldn't that be fitting Smerconish!? He fell in love with the 'race' speech- well since then BHO has disowned his former spiritual advisor despite saying he couldn't, and he and his surrogates bring up race every place they can...except where they should in NOTING that 95% of blacks are voting for BHO, yep that is racist (ie-Powell). Well, Smerconish will loose listeners but just think how many TV viewers he will get on MSNBC, what a great interviewer he is!
I voted today-Bill Bennet. As a former avid listener of Smerconish, I am gone. He destroys ALL that are associates of Abu-Jamal, BUT he quickly rationalizes the Ayers situation. In a strange twist of irony lets PRAY that Abu-Jamal is NOT pardoned by Obama- wouldn't that be fitting Smerconish!? He fell in love with the 'race' speech- well since then BHO has disowned his former spiritual advisor despite saying he couldn't, and he and his surrogates bring up race every place they can...except where they should in NOTING that 95% of blacks are voting for BHO, yep that is racist (ie-Powell). Well, Smerconish will loose listeners but just think how many TV viewers he will get on MSNBC, what a great interviewer he is!
Does it really matter? Voting is like religion. It's for the ignorant and the scared. Obama/McCain? Everyone should read Howard Zinn's A People's History of the United States 1492-present. After this read (if you have any intellect), you will tear up your voter's registration card and realize it's all a fraud. As for Smerconish: there's very little difference between him and Howard Eskin.
Am I theonly one who sees through this guy? It's not about the nominees. It is always about Michael getting a headline. There is no integrity of thought on his part. Only an opportunity to advance Michael's career. It makes question his agenda regarding Danny Faukner, being Muzzeled etc. He does this all of the time. His endorsement was about as predictable as olin Powell's.
@ Paul Lynde- Actually, I have voted (R) in the past- and am registered to do so in the primaries as well FYI.
What happened to core principles and beliefs? Think Obama vs Bin Laden is that important... we should be protecting the continental US (borders, economy and quality of life) and let him rot in a cave! Mike, I'm so very, very disappointed!!!
Hey Nate, its time we get Sestak out of office. As Republicans, we have a better choice in Craig Williams now, not Sestak. Sestak hasnt done anything, typical democrat. As for Smerconish, I would have expected more from someone who is supposedly educated and worked under Reagan. Granted I am not a McCain fan on all the issues, but the alternative is higher taxes(socialism), a worse economy, a joker on the foreign policy scene (can someone say Jimmy Carter the 2nd). What a traitor.
I'm tired of the everyone having a label liberal, conservative. You need to vote the candidate and forget his assigned label. I had voted Republican until last election when I cast my vote for Joe Sestak over the lawmaker/lobbyist Curt Weldon.
I like McCain and had supported his presidential bid in the past but feel he has sold his soul to attract support from the Republican party element with its own agenda. They do not reflect
my views so I will seek a candidate who does. That is Obama. He has shortcomings but in weighing the entire man I feel he'll make a better president than John McCain.
Michael has a coming out party and Obama's invited. Did he promise you position of Press Secretary? Better get in line behind Olberman, Maddow, Matthews, Couric, Brokaw, Ifill, etc. since they are all bucking for the same position. I have no problem with the moderates or liberal Dems voting for Obama, but I do have a problem with someone who passes themselves off as conservative voting for him. No true conservative would vote for the most liberal senator in Washington.
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Just Like 10 Months ago - Obama has NO Chance to win this thing.
Get used to it! Stop blaming Fox News. Anyone who would claim a Fox Media bias has never watched. Sure Hannity - He's too far right, But he sits across Alan Colmes who is even further LEFT. That's an opinion Show and the guests are balanced left as well as center and they get to speak equal time. That's what the liberals don't like!
I know the difference because I watch the others... Cheeze - Olbermann and Maddows are Pure Left and offer No guests to the contrary. People are just no that stupid to realize what's going on there. That's why they look elsewher. People want to see what is being hidden from them.. That's the same reason Obama has lost this one. He hides everything and calls it an attack!
The medical term for Desert Stephanie and the other cool aid drinkers is Richard Cranium.
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As an Arizona resident I have followed John McCain closely for several years and can tell you he certainly was a great man and still shows glimpses of what he used to be. But he and Palin have also displayed they will do just about anything to get elected. I never realized how prejudice Americans really were until this campaign process began. Michael made a decision I'm sure he thought out and I doubt it had anything to do with his career path. He makes more money than most of us already. He simply put his principles aside for what he feels is a better candidate. The name calling on these posts is pathetic but not surprising.
it's so pathetic that Smerconish or Parker at NRO can carry water for the Bush Administration for eight years and be lauded by their readers...but let a contrary opinion make it into print or on the air and they're excommunicated...Free Speech?...Principled Opposition?...not for the Facists...oh...not allowed to say Facist,that's just too much...but call a Centrist Democrat a Commie,that's fair comment...all they have any more is the Ad Hominem attack...
wow. somebody who has a brain instead of automatically just supported the R team or the D team. bravo Michael.
I have been telling my co-workers for months that Smerconish would eventually endorse Obama. It really is no surprise. Besides, it is probably a prerequisite for MAS to get his most desired show at MSNBC that he go along with their choice of a candidate. Smerconish is the epitome of a RINO just like his mentor, Sen. D'arlin Arlen!
Mike what a fraud you are. How can you vote for someone who associates with a know terroist who keeps a picture of Mumia in his university office. His principals are no different the Hillary and you have said in the past that you would not vote for her. You fell for his charisma and eloquence, but that will not be enough to help this country. Ronald Reagan who turning in his grave.
While I don't necessarily agree with MS's choice (I'll be writing in Ron Paul's name), I do agree with some of his reasoning, especially that the Republican party has been taken over by radical right wing christians who don't represent the viewpoint of most of America. McCain pandered to that segment of the party by selcting Palin, and in the end that will prove to be his biggest blunder, the miscalculation that people would look past her views just because she was a woman. I've listened and read Smerconish for years, and agree with his pragmatic approach to politics (conservative on finance, taxes and foreign policy, liberal on personal privacy issues like legalizing marijuana). What he really is, if we must assign political labels, is a seemingly forgotten species these days, a moderate Republican. And maybe even a closet Libertarian. Its people like that, who see beyond the single issue obsessions of so many people and take in the whole picture, who provide the best hope for this country's future.
Actually Mike, Repulicans hold the hack of the century title. Country falling apart what do they do. Attack Obama for an association with a sixties tererorist (From a metting they had on a panel hand picked by a Republican milionaire).Who needs facts when the sheeple public will buy inuendo and hatred disguised as politics.. No facts no solutions just petty childish character attacks just like you do Mike. You fit the Republican mold perfectly You know it's the rich man's war syndrome you pin heads refuse to acknowledge becasue ...well your just either angry or stupid. Did you see that a study found liberals to be more intellgent? Or that liberal in the dictionary means enlightened and caring while conservative means stingy cheap and I guess they should also add STUPID. SO keep your B.S. flowing because you have have no facts on your side. Your petty insults only bring more independants to our side. Just anger anger anger anger. tsk tsk you poor little moron. go vote away you future and the world's for that matter. McSame is dangerous and Failin Palin is the biggest political joke ever. If I didn't love my country, I would admit that your ilk deserve what you get.
Mike I agaree with you regarding Sunset - Perhaps we can ask him if has a brother named Sue. Sunset isn't that well educated, I think what he is confusing himself with is the fact that many names from eastern Europe were mis-spelled upon arrival, the possibility of a name like that being mis-spelled by those in Immigration is great. But again, don't you think Michael is relieved not having to cater to those small minds any more. I have heard a relief in his voice for some time now, he is happy with his decision and didn't make it lightly.
Mike probably feels like someone in an abusive relationship that has decided to leave with all his teeth. Good decision Michael.
BushisGood, Are your feelings hurt since Mike won't toe the party line? Sniffle, sniffle. Get a Kleenex. Oh, I'm switching to 990. That will show him!! Idiot.
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What is refreshing is that finally there are a number of former Republicans who are going beyond ideology and thinking in practical terms. This country is in serious trouble, and requires someone - anyone - with a steady hand to guide our ship through very troubled waters. The last three debates have proven that that steady hand is Obama and not McCain. Whatever concerns about preparedness that existed about Obama have been slowly and steadily evaporating. It is not that he is the Messiah but more that he is clearly the Man for the times.
Nice shift Mike. You say you don't drink the KOOL-AID. You drank a pitcher. As far as how you got here, it doesn't matter too me. Just your attitude that you worked for Ronald Reagan and you came to this position. He must be turning over in grave but of course you don't care because you have Evolved. The party didn't leave you, you left the party. I will not listen to you about anything else, including anything about Mumia. You betrayed us sir and You are a fraud.
Mike, I have turned your show off in the AM, I have switched to 990AM. I also have noticed the slide on your part. Good luck and good riddens.10 year fan.Later
Obama=Executive Branch + Pelosi= Congress + Frank & Dodd=Senate= DISASTER
Posted by sunset1 10:21 AM, 10/18/2008
Smerconish is not even his real name, which tells you what kind of a phoney he is.
**Who would change his name to Smerconish? sunset, you are an idiot! I just love all the haters writing here. Like Michael committed sacrilege for saying he's for Obama. He's not a robot like you guys. He uses his brain, which is more than can be said for you. Like me, Smerconish is a man who would like to see mumia fried and Obama elected.
I cannot vote for Obamma because the mainstream media has attempted to bury any negative stories about him. While it is obvious that Obama is bright and seems to be a cool customer, I am still troubled by his character issues that have not been adequatyely explained such as belonging to a church for 20 years that had a paranoid and anti-American preacher, his business dealings with Rezko, his association with a domestic terrorist (How did he get a University appointment?) and his voting or lack of a voting record.
Delco, you aren't a conservative, youSean, Glenn, the Limbaugh Bimgaughs and a failed school teacher are just a few self-absorbed hacks responsible for the downfall of the Real Republican party.
But then again, as I read your posts, it's really all about you, and your personal needs. ergo - The new BULLY PULPIT Republican Party, and its demise.
Maybe Michael kept his mouth shut long enough to "listen" --- Can you do that?
Everybody has turned on John McCain. The media is all anti McCain , all the time (maybe except Fox, sure) John McCain the man who put his life on the line for his country and has a long distinguished record of working accross party lines to get things done in a pragmatic, non ideological way. The man who refused to turn Iraq into Vietnam. The man who called for the kind of changes in Freddie and Fannie that would have mitigated the recent financial crisis. Conservatives like Smerconish, Brooks, Parker and Chris Buckley have all turned on him in favor of Obama. They now favor a man who thinks government should spread thge wealth around by giving tax payer checks to people who already do not pay taxes, the man who sued banks to force them to give loans to people with bad credit, a man who will appoint 2 very liberal Supreme Court Justices, a man who will give drivers licences to illegal aliens as he said in the Philly debate, a man who will cut missile defense as he promised to liberal groups at the start of primary season. A man who sat listening to racist anti American rants for 20 yrs. Well we will get what we deserve.
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Thank you Michael Smerconish for studying the issues and deciding who is right and not going straight by party. I see some Conservatives choose to abandon you because you are using your brain and making a decision based on the facts and what you believe is best. The comments embody all that is wrong with America. You either vote with me or we are against each other. Absolute lunacy. America is a democracy and we can have dissenting opinions and still peacefully co-exist. Brave Michael!
It's amusing to me how every conservative thinks anyone slightly to the left of themselves is a socialist. I'm a registered member of the Socialist party, and the Democrats are way too conservative a party for my tastes. And Smerconish's "liberal shift" may just be a realization that this country is too conservative. Just like other military republics, the conservative movement can easily collapse the U.S. government into a military dictatorship. The "checks and balances" argument doesn't fly either. True democracy culls the executive from the legislative branch, therefore whichever party is in control can get things done. The founding fathers threw this government together centuries ago, with no inclination of how the future would unhold. You right-wingers need to enlighten yourselves.
Smerconish has chosen not to consider BHO's close ties to Islamicists like Rashid Khalidi or Khalid Al-Mansour, or his close ties to Marxist organizations. He is now disqualified from detailing them in the future. This is his 'Ricky Williams' moment.
Good for you Mike. You really do put country first. It's not just a political slogan. Proud of you.
Michael chose Talk Radio after a successful Career as an Attorney, and I thank him for proving something I have been concerned about for some time. Education is an important tool used to open people's minds and slow down bigotry.
What industry other than Talk Radio have substance abuse addicts still in denial as their top two Hosts, and a third who like the top two is a college drop out who failed at his original career? All three attack formal education and appeal to the lowest common denominator. Glenn, Rush and Sean stand up a take a bow.
A local failed school teacher will gladly pick up their water, buzz words and assignment for "Evening Division". What is more fraudulant than dropping out of College, failing at an original career, and then calling yourself a "Journalist"?
Michael just brought Talk Radio up a Notch and the hateful posts have proven my point,,,, Obama wasn't my first choice, and I was mediocre at best regarding his success, but the thought of a man who has been like putty in the hands of his Campaign Managers, Talk Kings and Evangelicals Cons scares me to death, and the thought of a three time Beauty Queen turned Hockey Mom and her "first dude" anywhere near the putty man and his Beauty Queen scares me even more. I prefer adults this time around.
Go back to the desert steve and crawl back into your hole. Fixed, let's see what was Charlie Gibson, nice to show that he is impartial, B.S. Oh yeah, Keith Olberman, Chris Matthews, real balanced TV personalities. I have no respect for Smerconish anymore. Only way to show your disgust at Smerconish is to not listen to his show.
Sounds like a joe lieberman move; jump ship to snif out a new job. But, like joe, you burn bridges with this move. The republicans wont forget this one either. But then again, who cares. I dont mind republicans because they no longer matter. They are about to get slammed in the senate too! yup, you betcha!
He'll just be the first domino to fall. Next week the rest of the daily lie-up will go Dem - Beck, Limbaugh, Hannity. Giordano. What a tool of the liberal media 1210 has become. Give me a break.
I have heard Mikey from time to timeas he filled in for real commentators. I'll now turn the dial if any of the real guys ask him to sit in.
Smerconish, Seeing the inevitable anointing of Lord Obama,Saviour of the nation,positions himself nicely for the coming Fairness Doctrine law.
Well played Mikey! That should guarantee you a national radio/TV show in the fall out from the complete Democrat take over of the media.
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Any unbiased listener of Michael Smerconish will tell you he's a opportunist at heart. I've listened on/off to Michael for years. I'm a conservative republican who agrees w/ Michael, more than I disagree. However, that said, it's not at all shocking Michael will vote for Obama. Michael will routinely listen to both sides of an issue and attempt to 'come down in the middle'... not out of principle, mind you, but in an attempt to appear 'fair minded'. I like Michael, however, people like him really never advocate for any serious change. Michael will make a good living for himself, but really never be a principled person... he's an attorney, need I say more! Michael's 'main street' appeal hides the fact that he's wealthy guy whose only experience of city living comes as he drives by in his limo.
This guy is for whoever is in power. He's assessed the situation and sees the country is moving to the left and he'll have a larger audience if he votes Democrat. Or, he's trying to keep the myth going that he is moderate by voting for Obama when the election is wrapped up. Total fraud.
Smerconish is clueless and the simple-minded reasons given for supporting Barry Obama makes such an endorsement insignificant to conservatives. He is nothing but a light-weight and clown and when the decline in ratings to his radio show continues, he'll use racism as an excuse--just like all phonies and pseudo tough guys do these days. Two years ago Smerconish said the GOP is dead due to the Religious Right--an early clue on just how politically savvy he really isn't.
I'm a registered Democrat and will be voting for McCain. Obama has no business being on the national stage.
As an Australia, I'm surprised you guys still harp on about party lines when your economy and reputation is in the latrine. You need someone who will unite your country and bring back basic respect and dignity. You don't have the luxury of being partisan because the rest of the democratic countries are moving into the 21st century with or without you. As you fight and bicker like schoolkids, the world watches in dismay. We stood with you in Vietnam to fight the so called commies, we stood and fought with you in Iraq to fight the so called terrorist with WMD.. you'd better learn to get your facts right because we won't make the same mistakes.
Michael Smerconish has demonstrated extreme bravery, as did the son of Bill Buckley, in presenting a reasoned and analytical endorsement of Senator Obama. Senator Obama has demonstrated the temperament, the intellect, the compassion, and the comprehension of the problems ordinary Amreicans face in a tanking economy mostly presided over by partisan conservatives. In not voting strictly along party lines, Mr Smerconish has demonstrated a most rational approach to the most important decision of our lifetime. I applaud Mr. Smerconish and consider him to be a real hero.
A Republican that is voting issues rather than toeing the party line. Sounds like the majority of my Republican friends. They're sick and tired of a Republican party that has been hijacked by the lunatic fringe religious zealots who want to dictate what they can do with their bodies and force the fiction that is creationism into the public school curriculum. John McCain wasn't part of that faction until about 6 months ago. Once he started walking arm in arm with them, he kissed his chance of getting elected goodbye.
Why is this such a big deal? He's a clown talk show host on some lame talk radio station....I don't care who he supports..why should anyone else. It's not like he's Matt Damon...or Madonna telling us what to do--I mean, those two are definitely in the know. He's a an attorney looking for a national tv show. He can't get one at fox so he goes another way. So for all you out there that are congratulating him on his momentous decision..remind yourself that he's got a career to look out for---obama will most likely win..so now he can take the side of the winner. How informed or wonderful of a guy can he really be---he supported Bush twice...even after the disastrous Iraq War.
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Listening to Mike over the last several months, it should have been clear to everyone that he was honestly struggling with this decision. In the end, the column on Sunday will probably state as a key deciding factor, Obama's stated intension to pursue Bin Laden in particular while focusing greater attention on the Afganistan situation in general. I take Mike at his word and believe that he has made this decision for no other reason than he has come to the certainly highly reasoned conclusion that Obama is the correct choice for the job from the candidates left available. Mr. Smerconish, for your honesty and courage, "Bravo!"
Yep, this is a career move.... Therefore, my radio will NEVER stop on 1210 again between 5 and 9 in the morning!!! You're a fraud and a phony... Clearly, you've been spending to much time with Chris Matthews... Do you get a tingle up your leg when you hear Obama speak too????
Barry is for killing babies who survive abortions. Smerconish supports Barry. You're a disgrace Smerconish.
To call Smerconish a conservative would be like calling Andrew Sullivan a heterosexual. I mean who didn't see this coming a mile away? What will the bald one do when Barry doesn't invade Pakistan? By the way Smerconish - Yes is horrible. And your voice is tinny - like your lickspittle slavey "Dr Mazz".
I have no problem with something "thinking" through their decisions and coming up with a choice that is "outside" the box. But, I have been talking with my Father-In-Law for about 2 years about Michael and it has been clear he has shifted his political leanings while fronting that he is the same person. That is the frustration. From a group of people (conservatives) who don't feel they have any voice other than talk radio, it is frustrating and also smacks of betrayal to those of us who welcomed a sympathetic voice. I, for one am glad he has "come out of the closet" because now we know exactly where he stands. Facts are this, I am NOT in love with John McCain by any stretch of the imagination, but no person with an ounce of conservative principles can vote for Senator Obama. I have tried to embrace him, but it is all just well spoken rhetoric. Which we all know is the anti-GWB, which is exactly why and the ONLY reason why he is winning this election right now.
Thank you, Michael. Let's get a Democrat back in the White House and get our wonderfull nation's respect back around the world! Lets start respecting the budget again, lets start giving people with Parkinsons hope....lets start going after the right enemy....let's start paying attention to what is happening on our own soil....need I go on.
P.S. and when you decide to dethrone another country...can you at least know what your going to do when you get their.
Hurt his career nationally???! That is HILARIOUS! Folks, he has been sucking up to MSNBC (the Obama network) all election cycle!! This was obviously all planned to INCREASE his national profile and frame himself as an "open-minded" "non-racist" "conservative" (to the media, support for Obama is automatic entry into the "cool people" club). It was hardly a coincidence that Obama appeared on his radio show (knowing he would only get softball questions). To anyone with an ounce of common sense this proves Smerconish (like most radio talk show hosts) is a total fraud and only concerned about their own self interest. I hope the radio listeners of WPHT are smart enough to make him realize he has misjudged that self-interest. What a joke.
Michael has sold his soul to get a TV gig. He will not last the year in Philly and will have a show at MSNBC or CNN in no time. It is no coincidence that Glenn Beck left for Fox News leaving CNN looking for someone to take that spot. Tell the truth Michael and give your real motives. On the other hand don't bother - I won't be listening anymore anyway. You are a disappointment.
John McCain is going to win on Election Day.
Yes folks, he will win. Here is why:
1. McCain low tax policies are designed to grow the economy.
Obama has no clue how to grow the economy. His goal is to re-distribute
wealth from the hard working movers of this economy, the ones that
keep it going by hiring working folks, to those less productive.
2. McCain will help this country become energy independent
with off-shore drilling, nuclear energy, clean coal and other
feasible alternatives. These will create high-paying, mostly union
jobs and will keep the money in the USA.
Obama? Well forget off-shore drilling. Even if he was honest when
he said he is for it, Pelosi & Co are dead set against it. Nuclear?
The same. Hey, maybe we can all inflate our tires and wear sweaters
aka Jimmy Carter.
3. Federal Spending.
John McCain is one of the only voices in Washington over these last
10 years fighting to control the outrageous growth of federal
spending.
Obama, well again Pelosi & co will roll him, provided he even attempted
to control such spending.
4. For all of Baracks eloquence, there is not much substance.
5. The world is still a dangerous place. Obama remains un-test even
by an inquisitive media. Americas enemies know that and will use it
to test him. Voters know that and will not take the chance.
Listen to WNTP 990 AM
But it's a good business move for Mike. Not only can he move up at msnbc, which has no pretense of objectivity, he can claim to be independent, so 1210AM does not suffer under the "stop conservative talk radio/anti-free speech doctrine that will probably be law by 2/29 if Obama wins.
I saw on CNN today how a lifelong repub is voting for obama. He was recently laid off from the mortgage industry and had watched the republican convention. He saw how war profiteers like Rudy mocked obama as a "community organizer". With a law degree from harvard, he was doing community work for the poor and down-trodden. They mocked him for that! Now all that negative hate and name calling has come full circle. Now if only some of you would promise to move to canada if obama wins...please..please go!
He'll be in good position to be the govt approved talk radio host when the fairness doctrine is reinstated.
I am also a registered Republican and plan to vote for Obama. I am 64 years old and my father was very active in the Republican party. The first election I was active in was the Nixon/Kennedy election of 1960. I wasn't old enough to vote but I helped my father hand out campaign literature for Nixon. The Republican party of today has been hi-jacked by the neoconservative and fundamentalist religious fringe. It is not the party of my father or myself. Reading the hate filled response from some of these so-called Republicans just reinforces my view the the party is filled with hate mongers who never view the other party as having any value or merit. Indeed, them brand them as "liberals" as if they were talking about some sub species of humans. This is what the last eight years of Bush and his gang has brought about in our country.
I don't agree with everything Obama stands for but if this is the only way to wake up the Republican party then so be it. I don't want fringe groups controlling my party.
Michael, from one "fallen" Republican to another, thank you for doing what a good person, by telling the truth regardless of the consequences. I am voting for Barrack Obama because I too believe that he is the best man to lead our country in these times. Furthermore, I am proud to live in a country that can elect a person to be president regardless of the color of his or her skin. Thank you.
Seems all these freedom-loving Republicans have a problem with someone in their party thinking freely. That's why I left the party. Too many extremist idealogues trying to force their views on the rest of the party. Lincoln, Roosevelt and Eisenhower would be ashamed of what this party's become; heck, they'd probably side with Smerconish here and vote for Obama, too. When Republicans stop making everything about Jesus, or "good vs. evil", or "us vs. them", maybe it'll be time to come back. Until then, all you wingnuts really need to stop making the rest of us look so narrow-minded and unreasonable. I repudiate all of your behavior, much like Obama did Ayers'.
stevejones sez: "I will also be around to fight in the republican party and rest assured we will fight liberal democrats like yourself." More's the pity, steve. And even more so that you do not understand why this statement only holds this country back from real progress. And before you cry Marxism or socialism or communism, save it. That's not what I mean, and you should really research those terms before you spout them off with such impunity.
Wow, what a shocker - NOT!
His wife sells a lot of real estate on the liberal Main Line and if he came out for McCain she would lose a lot of McMansion-level business. I'm sure that went into the mix when he considered whether to overtly reveal himself as the RINO he's always been.
I have to say that I too have been more impressed with Obama than McCain in this election. I lean republican but just can't go that way. I think McCain's time was 8 years ago and Sarah's may be 8 years from now. Thanks Mike for not drinking the coolaid!
Smerconish only wants to be an MSNBC talking head. Its amazing the gall of this guy. This is all in pursuit of a national tv job. How many shows and how much press coverage will the "conservative pindit" get by this move.What about integrity and belief. Mike hes a socialist. He is everything that is wrong with no personal accountability. I will also be around to fight in the republican party and rest assured we will fight liberal democrats like yourself. Go back to being a lawyer.
Well done Michael,
Of course the GOP trashtalkers will crucify you for it, but they were not brave enough to vote for John Kerry who was in the infantry. Smelt death and burnt flesh, but not good enough for the flag wavers.
No, you are doing the right thing. I can admit when I'm wrong, you should try it, feels good...
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That is Brilliant Paul...'mangina'?...original. Now wonder Michael has turned on your irrational rhetoric. Having a conversation with most Conservatives in the present is equivalent to banging my head against the wall. I understand your frustration with Michael's decision, believe me I do, but there is a deep seeded reason why many of these posts are congratulating Michael's decision...it's just too bad Paul you don't know what it is.
Well, 'Mikey,' you have your work cut out for you. I think you make the only other moderate Republican not in captivity....to the extreme right. Unfortunately, McCain became a POW - again.
Unfortunately, when leaders try to turn the mob to peace or to finding value in the other side, those leaders get labeled as traitors 'to the cause.'
You just made their list.
Not a good place to be in a political campaign trying to fan the flames of hatred, not so much for the election, but to dominate the post-election.
Smerconish has used the "outsourcing of the hunt for bin Laden" as a phony excuse. I doubt that he's a liberal at all, but he is opportunistic and wants to advance his career on the national stage. You saw this coming a mile away once he started sucking up to Chris Matthews. There is a thin veneer here and you can see right through a guy like this...
And to all of these miffed republicans, get over it, you are losing folks to the democratic party because your party and its agenda stinks !
Mr. Smerconish: I don't often agree with your opinions, but I must congratulate you for having the courage to come out today in support of Obama. I know the conservatives will throw you under the bus for this, but now is not a time for blind allegiance to a party or person. While Obama is certainly not perfect, he is by far and away the best candidate running. Obama has shown he deserves the opportunity to put this country back on track. Again, my hat is off to you for having the courage to speak out.
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I think Michael Smerconish is one of the most intelligent radio hosts that we are fortunate to have. If he is choosing Obama, he is making a decision that was thoroughly thought out, I'm sure. I also think he has guts putting his choice out instead of hiding it to be a people pleaser to certain folks. Way to Go & Great choice !
You really gained my respect. People seem to be forgetting going against your party is being a maverick. You are truely putting country first.
Good choice, Smerconish!
Great comment "ease"!! It's funny how Repubs would follow any candidate the GOP put up to water. They could drill down through all the oil, find Satan, put him in a suit and call him a Conservative. Then all the right-wing nut jobs would vote for him!! It's not about which party you subscribe to anymore people. Do your research and vote for the candidate that's best for YOU. Obama will leave more money in MY pockets, take care of issues that matter to ME, and bring home MY neighbors kids from Iraq. What else can you ask for?
Smerconish show he has guts, listens to his conscience - and has common sense. A convert from the dark side!
Stop panicking Republicans- You're scared and just throwing insults at anyone who will listen. If Obama wins, the world won't end, we will not become France, and we will not all be paying higher taxes. Liberal is not a dirty word, nor is conservative. It's an ideology where if we stop insulting each other for 5 mins we'll find we're not that far apart from each other on most issues.
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To all the posters on here today who have posted negative and childish comments, SUCK IT. Thank you, Michael Smerconish.
Bravo Mike! And thank you Michael for placing common sense over principle. If more folks in the media had the guts to do the same we may very well not have gotten in this mess, ie, Fox "Fixed" News, etc. And in response to 'Paul' above...does the name 'Lieberman' sound familiar?
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I've listened to Smerkonish now for over 10 years now and feel totally betrayed. I have noticed that since he has gone national, especially hooking up with his buddy Chris Matthews his views have been slowly easing more and more liberal. Remember the guy who was an NRA member, advocated gun owners rights, had the rotten tomato contests? That guy was fun, this new guy is a dope. He picked on the hunt for Bin Laden as his leveraging point to hook up with Obama thinking that we wouldn't notice. Remember how he used to bash teh Inquirer? I noticed he stopped doing that long ago...this was a planned move to go national...Fox wouldn't have him, so he hooked up with MSNBC and that was it. What an opportunistic jerk!
Well He just proved himself right, I was a diehard republican till my voice was drowned out by the rabid hatefilled morons who inhabit the far right, the party no longer cares about the rank an file, but of course if you speak up as a good republican all of a sudden you're a closet liberal. It's the likes of you who have destroyed this party. Its pretty bad when you can take an honorable man like McCain and make him twist in the wind and ruin what he stood for just to put your sad butts back in the white House.
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Kudos to mr. Smerconish for presenting a dissenting point of view without lowering himself to the type of pointless name calling seen in these comments. Commenters take note- There's no better way to get someone to disagree with your opinion than to resort to name calling and pointless blather. It makes you, and your professed party look bad.
Judging by the number of Obama lawn signs along the Main Line, it's really no surprise. Affluent liberals who give very little to real charities (i.e. other than the ones involving lavish events that afford them opportunities to eat, drink, see/be seen and appear in the society pages) prefer to satisfy their guilt by advocating taxpayer-funded government solutions.
He is a total liberal/socialist moron, if he was ever conservative, would never consider voting for a liberal/socialist like Obama, Daily News and Inquirer suck, full of liberal hacks!!!!
This smacked a&& was always a closet lib. His show is a joke. His reasons for supporting Dear Leader are thin. I have tuned him out for two years now---Bill Bennett Mornings is the alternative.
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Finally this complete FRAUD of a republican has come out and admitted what everyone already knew, he is a liberal democrat. He has been moving left for a while now and has endorsed more democrats then republicans in the last few years, states that he’s not very conservative on his website and now endorses a far left liberal. Smerconish has just committed talk radio suicide and I for one, am glad he did. Just as Air America went away, so will this pathetic hack!
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