American Morning
Obama awarded 2009 Nobel Peace Prize
(CNN) - President Obama was awarded the 2009 Nobel Peace Prize on Friday.
[cnn-photo-caption image= http://i2.cdn.turner.com/cnn/2009/WORLD/europe/10/09/nobel.peace.prize/art.obamablackcaucus.gi.jpg caption="Less than nine months into his presidency, Barack Obama has been awarded the 2009 Nobel Peace Prize."]
The first African-American to win the White House, Obama was praised by the Norwegian Nobel Committee for "his extraordinary efforts to strengthen international diplomacy and cooperation between peoples."
"Only very rarely has a person to the same extent as Obama captured the world's attention and given its people hope for a better future," the committee said. "His diplomacy is founded in the concept that those who are to lead the world must do so on the basis of values and attitudes that are shared by the majority of the world's population."
The committee also said Obama has "created a new climate in international politics."
The announcement came as a surprise - Obama's name had not been mentioned among front-runners - and the roomful of reporters in Oslo, Norway, gasped when he was named.
In his short time in office, Obama has acted on a wide range of issues from the economy to terrorism and wars in Afghanistan and Iraq.
Obama also lobbied unsuccessfully to bring the 2016 Olympics to Chicago, Illinois. After returning from Denmark, Obama expressed no regret about his trip, saying it is "always a worthwhile endeavor to promote and boost the United States."
About this Show
Welcome to the American Morning blog where you can get daily news updates from American Morning's reporters and producers. Join us for "the most news in the morning," weekdays from 6-9 a.m. ET, only on CNN.
On Twitter
President Barack Obama is very deserving of the 2009 Nobel Peace Prize. It is not how much he has done; it is what he is doing. He has made it very clear to everyone that he is a man of peace who understands the necessity of working with the world community to achieve world peace.
The war in Afghanistan is about bring peace to that region by protecting the people, building schools and an infrastructure to peace. The forty thousand US troops being sought by the General today, is about having the necessary force to help the Afghans to achieve peace and prevent the return of those who organize to attack our interest around the world., which is the president's.
We should be proud that we elected a man that is respected and recognized around the world. The Nobel Peace Prize is America's award for making the choice for change on November 4, 2008.
Bernistine Little
New Jersey
Harmon:
Obama talks about it, but has done NOTHING towards any of it.
And further he created DIVERSIONS by going after the CIA, and continue to criticize Bush and the past events, but does noting to changing any of it.
Look at Guantanamo? Do you think it will ever close? NO it will NOT!
I didn't like Bush and I wanted change, not Obama though. He is exactly what is wrong with this country ALL TALK AND NO ACTION!
If you go back to the list of his campaign promises, he has, so far, delivered on NOTHING of it. But we now have to be hypocritical and happily accept that he's being awarded by the most prestigious award in the planet (no more in my opinion) for accomplishments towards something completed. B.S.!! I don't think so!!
You need to open your eyes and learn from what history teaches us all, and continues to repeat it self.
On this issue, I think John nailed it this morning. The difference between the bellicosity (my word, not John's) of the Bush administration and the more conciliatory language of Obama represents such a fundamental change that the Nobel committee recognized it. Americans want war because it is not being fought here. But lasting peace is harder to achieve and a more worthwhile endeavor.
You at CNN and most of the new media just don’t get it! Instead of being proud of our President and Country you just put your own negative spin on the news this morning. Obama has in a very short amount of time accomplished a lot by setting the tone around the world and to use the words of the Nobel Peace Price Committee they awarded him this honor for “his extraordinary efforts to strengthen international diplomacy and cooperation between peoples.” This is not a down payment on what is to come it is for what has been done todate!!!
I think is great that the President received this honor. The Repuplicans I'm sure are very upset and will not have anything nice to say about this, but what else is new. Obama can't do anything right according to them. I think they forgot all about the mess they created forthe past eight years. Oh by the way do you recall any talks about health reform in the past eight years? However they allnowhave the awnser (Republicans) What a joke!!!! I agree with Gloria's comentary it is time to call their bluff!!!
I might as well tune into the FOX negative network. At least they don't veil their comments. Can't you say it for what it is; a wonderful accomplishment. Looks as if only Democrats have been awarded the Nobel Peace Prize...does that make it a political football?
To Brad A from San Diego:
I applaud you!! You are an Obama supporter who acknowledges how he's done NOTHING towards peace and sees how this is a JOKE.
The Nobel Peace Prize is for efforts and accomplishments in obtaining Peace, not for talking crap about how it could be.
Thank you for your honesty.
Bill from Pittsburgh.
I am ashamed of the toxic and negative political atmosphere we live in today. The president has been in office for 9 month, has stopped the economy from crashing, and has begun to upgrade the U S standing in the world, and the news media’s first response is that our president winning the Nobel Peace Prize must be a mistake, or it must be political. It should be considered a great honor and all Americans should be proud. I for one am happy we have moved back away from evil abyss of being a nation that tortures and lies. As a people we have become jaded and cynical, and we have truly lost our way. We now have a president who has vision, and it seems that out of all of us he is one of the
few. It says in the Bible that where there is no vision, the people parish.
After reading the response and listening to the remarks of the host of this show.
I have came to the conclusion that, the other countries gave our President the Noble Peace Prize because of his patient and peace he uses to deal with the people in his own country.
I would not make it for one day! The amount of disrespect he has been given to trash him, is disgraceful! And with other country watching it they probably thinks he will need it to live through his trials through with the republicans and their all out war on anything he does. Watch it America, the taliban watches cnn too!
After reading many of these other comments, it amazes me to see how effective the Republican anti-Obama lies and distortions have been!
Time and time again, many of these people have been clearly proven wrong, yet they refuse to look at the FACTS.
Even the Republican-stacked Federal Courts and Supreme Court have repeatedly slapped down many portions of Bush's Patriot Act, prisoner treatment and other travesties... and for that they have been called "liberal activist judges legislating from the bench"!
How stupid do you have to be to believe that kind of crap?
SHAME ON YOU CNN. Your congratulations should be
showered on our President like the dew after a good rain. Instead, you people have aligned yourselves with Glen Beck and the rest of the old boys to try and degrade Mr. Obama. Well, I got news for you. We ( Black folk, Red folk, White folk, Brown folk, and Asian folk) pray for Mr. President all day every day to prosper and to be in health. Mr. Obama deserves the Nobel Peace Prizeif for no other reason than potting up with the distractions you guys present to the public as legitimate jurnalistic concerns.
Pat
Mark P: I couldn't have said it any better!!
If dreaming is prize winning, wow, some of us have rally missed the bus.
WHAT A JOKE!!
Wow..Obviously, this is good for the United States to have yet another Nobel Peace price winner...Good for us, however, I feel bad for the person that actually deserved it! Obama is making good strides, but unworthy of this award. This is like giving the Detroit Lions the Lombardi Trophy in September, hoping that it will give them incentive to win the Superbowl!
Congratulations! You've earned it by cleaning up the U.S.s image (that Prez Bush intended to take unilateral action on all issues throughout the world unless they (other leaders ... and the UN) did what he wanted them to do. This was his attitude with his own U. S. people ... agree with me and support my policies or you are a traitor. WOW! Obama has shown us what truly can be accomplished in only nine months if you are willing to listen to people instead of making fun and/or stomping on them.
To Jon DeMent, quoting you:
In his 1895 will, Alfred Nobel stipulated that the peace prize should go “to the person who shall have done the most or the best work for fraternity between the nations and the abolition or reduction of standing armies and the formation and spreading of peace congresses.”
What can you detail Obama has done towards this? Going to Copenhagen to bid for the Olympics in Chicago we couldn't afford either way?
Obama has done nothing towards peace but "dream, and read well written speeches". He's fooling you all...
Joan from – not the USA:
Is not about deserving Obama, I don't like him nor pretend to hide it. I didn't like Bush either and I'm clear about it as well. But Obama has completed no ACHIEVEMENT, as you detail it to even be nominated for this "prestigious" prize (no more).
The rest of the world, only sees what he pretends to be, while you are living it, you see how his true colors are slowly coming out, and its nothing pretty to look at.
I don't care what other politician could-a, should -a, would -a, done towards winning any kind of award, but I do care to believe that those who do win it, has proven to have done something for it, like Dr. King did.
You are entitled to your position, and so be it, but you will be disappointed, guaranteed!
President Barack Obama is the right choice for the 2009 Nobel peace prize. An ordinary man, who works relentlessly and has reached the most powerful office in the world. But the most important factor is that he has time and again confirmed publicly the compassion for the less privileged, and the inner-strength of intention to bring about peace to the entire world. This time it is no mistake. It is better to encourage an honest intention, rather than blunder, as in the case of Mahatma Gandhi... by not awarding a man of the millennium.
LONG LIVE PRESIDENT OBAMA'S LEGACY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
MAY HE CONTINUE TO LEAD BY EXAMPLE AND SHIELD HIM FROM HIS FAKE FOLLOWERS AND FOES!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
CONGRATULATIONS PRESIDENT OBAMA FOR CREATING SITUATIONS OF PEACE THAT BEGAN LONG BEFORE HIS PRESIDENCY!!!!!!!!
In his 1895 will, Alfred Nobel stipulated that the peace prize should go "to the person who shall have done the most or the best work for fraternity between the nations and the abolition or reduction of standing armies and the formation and spreading of peace congresses."
Given that, anybody who says he doesn't deserve it has just displayed both their ignorance and their blind bias and prejudice.
FANTASTIC!
"No Thanks" to a highly effective Republican propaganda effort, President Obama's support has dwindled a bit in this country, but it is wonderful to see that his views still get plenty of respect in the rest of the world!
Personally, I would rather have our country seen as a friendly beacon of hope on the international scene than as a beliigerent bully, as we have been seen for most of the past 8 years!
You don't make genuine friends and worthwhile allies by intimidating them.
After reading the comments on this blog, I am saddened by the inability of some people to give credit where credit is due. IDEAS are the HOPE of mankind, and Obama has certainly given hope to the world and to many people in America (I exclude those on this blog who want DEEDS because they are incapable of realizing the power of IDEAS. Go blissfully on your ways, little grumblers). I applaud the president for this wonderful award.
I want to see what he's going to do with the $1 mil check that comes with it????
What has he done for me ? seems to be the overtly strong message by those opposed to Obama getting this award. The award isnt decided by American politicians and isnt given for earning popularity. Or maybe, it is just a personal bigotted viewpoint reminiscent of when Dr. King won the Nobel Peace Prize.
The obviously prejudicial attacks in these comments range from" too soon", to what has he done to solve chicago's urban problems. The Iraq war is winding down to a mandated withdrawal by the US. The American public, slow in urging peace without victory are coming around to opposing the Afghan. war.
Wake up. There is a world out there and good part of our economic woes are impacted by foreign investments. Good will internationally will defintely be a positive.
Obama has channged international perception of the US as a bullying war-loving nation. In doing so it opens up possibilities in a world wide context.
In the light of receiving this award Obama now has pressure to further advance the cause of peace and disentangle us from other dangerous situations.
To Ken from VA:
Obama has NOT stopped any Republican War Crimes. If what you are referring to is the CIA scandal, Obama is doing exactly what JFK did in his tenure. Not good...
Besides, how do would you feel in you act under orders, and now some young, idiotic, fool comes in, and in his quest for "change" tells you that you are now a criminal?? This is an exquisite example of "wag the dog".
Ever heard of it? A diversion. Obama's true colors are still to be be shown... Stand by and I hope you are all ready for it.
The President should be noble and decline this award. I agree with others, he is not to blame because he did not give it to himself and the Nobel Prize Committee should be ashamed to shun others on the ballot that have worked long and hard in their efforts. Again, another President getting into the political game-Politics as Usual. Well now, Pres. Obama needs to encourage more legislation in this country to bring more peace on the streets so that people can attempt to live.
It is so sad that the same thing stuff that did not want our President to succeed is happening with the Peace Prize. I believe that our President looks forward to doing just what he ran on. But does he make these decision alone?
The other side of the tracks are doing everything to disrespect our President. Or should I say they have done everything to get no respect for this President. I knew when he made it, he would do what most black people have to do. Do double the work for the Job, to prove himself.
Be careful naysayers, other countries are watching how you are treating one of our own and it can be considered sour grapes because a Republican party person did not make. Our President wants to do things he promised but he is finding out he will have to fight for every endeavor he wants to challenge. Watch it Republican.
President O'Bama, I applaud you!
PRESIDENT Obama, as hard as that is for some of the haters to say, is trying to get us as people on a better coarse than we've been on , especially the last eight years. Look, where is your decency, give credit where it is due. The Nobel award is in recognition of what he is trying to do. I keep saying (in jest) "When President Obama walks on water, there will be critics saying 'yeah but did you see the water splashing around him?' – some will keep looking for him to fail".
President Obama winning the Nobel Peace Prize is like a writer winning the Nobel Literature Prize by writing the outline of a great novel without actually writing the book. It's all about Tone and less about Substance.
This message is to Kelly Chang:
Kelly? What have you done for your country other than bash our president in the international arena like you are doing now, lie about things that he has not done or started, spitting your venom all over this dsicussion where we should all be proud because any prize given to our President is a prize awarded to us too.
What is wrong with you? Where is your patriotism?
We don't need wars to destroy this country while we have people like you living in it.
What makes you think that you are righteous and important enough to criticize our President like that? Did your parents ever taught you any mannaers? How aout respect for our President and all of us?
STFU!
It's scary to think that we live in a world world so void of peace makers, that we have to give the award to peace dreamers.
Maybe they should change the name from Noble Peace Award to
The NOBLE " HOPE" AWARD. IT WOULD NICE TO BE ABLE TO GIVE OUT A "CHANGE" AWARD.
CHARLIE WRANGLE FOR CREATIVE TAX LAWS AWARD?
To Harmon Brody:
Obama wishes he had a single cell of conviction and passion as Dr King had.
There are NOT to be compared in any way, specially it you are only using the color of their skin as the leading factor.
Do not forget that Obama is 1/2 white, has no slave history in his bloodline, and grew up with full "white" privileges, as they call it.
Dr King was 1 of a kind and his Peace Price was very well deserved.. not Obama's!
Just imagine how many awards he will win if he ever accompishes anything....
Well, I guess I know which side of the fence the moderator is on. So much for "tell us what you think." It should say "tell us ONLY if it is something we agree with." At least I won't waste time and energy in the future posting opinions on CNN blogs.
As a Canadian whose Country has been dragged into Bush's war, watched as the last administration worked hard to isolate the US from the rest of the world by refusing to communicate with so called enemies, I watched as Barak Obama in the short time in office has already started to change this attitude. I can't say if he deserves this award but he does not deserve the stupid and sensless criticism of the No No No republican's and the hate mongering news networks.
It appears that the Nobel Peace Prize is a peace offering for not giving Chicago the Olympics. I wonder if they just want us to be like them, second rate. It will be a meaningless jesture once we let our guard down, as he will, and we receive another attach. Just think if it is taking him all of this time to decide what to do in Afganistan, how long will it take him to decide what to do when we are attacked again. Also I wonder if anyone looked at the collateral damage, e.g., dead when he had the military hit the terrorist leader in Somilia?
I don't think it is a partisan decision. I think that the award was giving for effort. All recipients have accomplished something, and he has made an effort. Well I am making an effort to solve world hunger and obtain world peace. I guess I will be in the running for the award next time. I am sure there is someone in the world that has contributed more to the world than Obama.
I don't think it is a partisan decision. I think that the award was giving for effort. All recipients have accomplished something, and he has made an effort. Well I am making an effort to solve world hunger and obtain world peace. I guess I will be in the running for the award next time. I am sure there is someone in the world that has contributed more to the world than Obama.
félicitations!...an international hero in values, visions and hopes. Many of my canadians friends are cheering.
Why can't we be happy for Mr Obama winning the nobel peace prize instead of making negative comments, which only goes to show their small mind.
To elusive "C":
I think the answer to your question is very evident: Obama has done NOTHING towards PEACE to earn this award in any way.
Everyone in CNN, as the rest of most of us who are waking up to this HYPOCRITICAL news, is stunned!!
Not to mention that the "prestigious" title has no more!
EVERYONE HERE: Anyone can get a Nobel prize, now!!!
Its a total joke!!!
The Nobel Peace Prize is an award – not a reward. No one said President Obama's task is done – in fact it has just begun. He has dared to hope for peace in this war ridden world and begun to show the path of peace.
You Americans do not deserve Pres. Obama. He has just won the Nobel Peace Prize, one of the world's top honours, and some are criticizing it. Give me a break. He represents your whole country so this is a great achievment for your country not just the President. You should all be proud of him. Obviously the rest of the world is. This just goes to show that no matter what he does, the right will never give him credit where it is due. Do you think McCain or Palin would have been considered for this great honour? Hardly! As a citizen of the world, I am really proud of Pres. Obama and feel much more secure with him as the leader of one of the world's top and most influential countries.
“His diplomacy is founded in the concept that those who are to lead the world must do so on the basis of values and attitudes that are shared by the majority of the world’s population.” This award just goes to show how ground breaking this administration is because of an unparralleled demonstration of approaching every aspect of government duties with a TRUELY "public intrests first" reasoning. Everyone should acknowledge we havent seen an advocate of unbiasedness in government to this extent ever before!
Sometimes it is cool to say nothing or at least be a little positive-the Peace Prize is an Internatioal honour...Americans seem to want to ignore pr even put down a little, the opinions of the rest of the world in general...
Why not appreciate that Someone of yours is so appreciated outside your borders--and that the rest of the world sees a bigger picture-
If ypu all can"t play nice about this he can come up here (Canada) we are known to be really nice
How is it that our commentators are missing the reason our president Barak Obama won the Nobel Peace Prize? To me he has bridged the Grand Canyon of race issues. He bridged it with love, tolerance, and acceptance and became President of the United States. This is an honor we can all bask in. Where else in the world would this have happened? Nowhere. Be proud America it is an honor to us all.
I think he deserves it for selling a message of hope, opposed to that of hate or dispair in the face of great challenges. Taking the more difficult path will generate a level of respect that cannot be gained by the use of force alone.
This award is from an international perspective about how Obama has changed the worldwide peace initiative. He has takena stand toward America opening up peace talks and opportunities. Most Americans have no perspective internationally and dont care as evidenced by the accptance they had of Bush's isolationist policies.
When Dr King won the Noble Prize, mostly racists opposed an attacked the legitimacy of the award. His impact on how the world was or saw the US was enormous. Similarly to back then, the close minded American public will respond in some way the same way calling this a political or whatever decision. We who know the game recognize this as a racist rejection disaguised as something else. this isnt the race card, it very real for elements of the American public who supported segregation for years.
To all herein: The Nobel Peace Prize is not political and should have NOTHING to do with politics. Not that it can't be awarded to a politician or world leader, like our president, or any other nation's president...
Now, but what has Obama done towards peace to be nominated, let alone win it out of the blue?
Unfortunately, we are living times where one of the most prestigious independent awards have been proven to be "rigged". This is very disappointing, and I for one, have lost faith in these organizations which offered hope and aspirations to us all.
This is how rogue leaders have FOOLED their followers in the past, to only pull the rug from under all of them.
What's next, an Oscar for his acting while speech reading his many fancy teleprompters? THIS IS DISGRACEFUL!
Oh and to Rahul: Obama does not offer hope, and his change is all LIES!
Congratulations to President Obama for being awarded the Nobel Peace Prize. An accompanying story reports Republicans are outraged that an "award" is given to someone who actually desires "peace."
In another related story, the American Cancer Society has named a newly discovered strain, Spiritual Cancer, and named it the Limbaugh/Beck Syndrome. The disease. though not fatal, makes sufferers wish they were dead.
What is wrong with this picture? I am thrilled that Pres. Obama has been recognized and given the Nobel Peace Prize. Kudos to him and the United States! What I object to is that you dragged Ed Rollins out of bed to get his opinion, why? Ed is an avowed, unapologetic Republican. Couldn't you find anyone who would have something positive to say? Since Pres. Obama started his campaign for the Presidency he has stated that he would be the President of CHANGE. He draws big crowds and much applause wherever he goes and whenever he speaks. He brought us back from the brink of worldwide finanical collapse. He has reached out a hand of peace to countries who would do away with us in a heartbeat. He got a stimulas package together and is trying like heck to get all of the people of the U.S., covered for health care. Why the surprise!? I just don't understand what more you want.
The statement... how will Obama justify the request for more troops in Afghanistan since he has won the Peace Prize, really shows how news casters JUST DON'T GET IT! ...your use of "win" the war... contains the same type of language difficulty. What do you mean by “win” the war? And what do you imply when you say it? My understanding is that the USA is not in the business of gaining land; but rather the USA is in the businessof making a world filled with safety and respect for people. If that is our definition of winning the war… creating a land of peace, safety, and respect… then asking for and justifying troops creates no problem.
Virginia Lundeen
Wilmington NC
Talk about counting your eggs before they hatch. Many people (including myself), whether members of the international community, or citizens of the United States, believe Obama is on track toward building a noteworthy first term. Stepping into the presidency with an economic crisis, failing health care system, and wars on two fronts, I would have no problem giving Obama 'Rookie of the Year' honors when it comes to leading a nation, but the Nobel Peace Prize is a bit much at this time. Unfortunately, this situation places a burden on the future years of his administration, and dismisses the value of the prize itself.
Yes, his international policies focus on disarmament, and his very being makes America a much more approachable political power, but the nature of the prize is based on results, not ability. The committee's decision to reward the president so soon into this first term, along with the prize's past Democratic recipients, leaves Republicans much space for criticism. And nowadays, some of them are only too willing to have more fuel for the fire which is their public questioning of Obama's true legitimacy.
As an American, I am embarrassed by the kowtowing this represents from the international community. It's bad enough when many of our own citizens support this (now) hollow "achievement." I would have been THRILLED had our president won the award after having actually done something, but this early in his presidency, he has not accomplished much to be proud of as yet, and this award is worse than meaningless, it is embarrassing.
I think that this is a tremendous honor not only for President Obama, but for the United States. I recently returned from a trip to Italy and everyone with whom I spoke, absolutely adore him and are ecstatic that we have once again a President of whom we can be proud. President Obama's critics will try to spin this and say that it is a political move, but I truly do not believe that the Nobel committee cares about politics but about the awards that they endow. President Obama has managed to undo in 9 months the damage that the Republicans did on the international stage for 8 years. Kudos to the Commander-in Chief!!!!
Mariangela Altier
Rochester, New York
Most deserving! Peace is the ever present challenge; without it, nothing else matters. While holding up the offensive arm as a superpower leader, Obama has also freely extended the opportunity for peace for all peoples throughout the world. Republican will say no to everything, including this one. I am most disappointed about Ed Rolling's comments.
In response to whether or not it's too early for President Obama to receive the Nobel Peace Award: I believe it is not. Barack Obama has pulled together our country and brought citizens out of the woodwork. More people turned out to organize, vote, and have faith in our country than any time I have been alive to see. This in itself brings our country hope.
Now, I'm not saying that he cannot falter. In the next year to come, we will see more of Pres Obama's character and whether or not he can help us activate as a country to create changes that help the entire world. We can be more critical at that point.
But for now, awarding him is a sign of hope. Skeptics of Obama do not want to embrace hope. I'm not saying we shouldn't be skeptical or that it's not okay to dislike the President. That is one's choice. But he has brought people together. We can remain skeptical of anything if we want. Einstein said “Imagination is more important than knowledge. For knowledge is limited to all we now know and understand . . .” Skeptics are looking at the past and the facts. Supporters are looking at the facts AND what more can be as well. Hope is scarier than skepticism. There is a place for both of these attitudes. I believe we should try our best to use the power that this President has in bringing people together for creating a fulfilling future. Like I said earlier, if in 1 year from now, Obama falters completely, we can then focus on what needs to be done to change THAT.
For now, congratulations Mr. Obama and all supporters!
The U.S. aS PARTNER IS THE SINE QUA NON for future International peace.
I'm calling for Obama's peace prize to be revoked. Obama can't even keep the peace in his own country. This award takes the focus off important domestic issues which should be his sole priority in revitalizing a weak and ravaged economy. Maybe we should assemble for a tea party to oppose his Nobel Peace Prize.
good morning everyone
another bright day for the history of an america. i think our president deserve 100 nobel prices.i'm profoundly proud of Barak Obama and i wish him the best.
How was this an accomplishement, Alex, Phillips? He got nominated 2 (read TWO) weeks after his inauguration! What the heck had he done to earn this reward? And better yet, did he stop both wars he's now leading, no matter who started them? Remember his promise to bring our troops home, last time I checked home is not Afghanistan, from the looks of it, that is where the troops from Iraq will be going, next. Come on he has not kept any campaign promise so far. All he has done is travel, spend, party, spend more, oh yeah and let's not forget have a beer meeting on the lawn, oh yeah and let's not forget date night. So is he going to put the $ 1,400,000.00 that is attached to this prize to good use, or just bank it. I would call that a handout. I can think of some great charities he can give it to. Most likely a few that have lost funding because of his outrageous spending.
I am saddened at the political state of our country. We have become so myopic that we are willing to destroy our country to hurt a President. They may receive some short sided satisfaction of having the illusion of being right. Too many conservatives pride themselves on their ability to destroyer and criticize. Each and every American should be proud that one of us received such an award. The loudest boos come from the cheapest seats and the President's opponents are willing to destroy our country to support an evil agenda. As a Native American I am proud that we have a President willing to accept criticism for doing something. His opponents pride themselves in doing nothing. Afterall, most conservatives did nothing while my people suffered. At least this President is attempting to provide positive change. Kudos to our President.
Given that the United States is the most powerful nation in the world. Given further that President Obama has changed our image from the "would be" dictatorship of the Bush Administration to that of active diplomacy, treating others as equal partners. Is it any wonder that the Nobel Committee has recognized a tremendous step toward possible peace. If not world wide, at least in small steps.
This major change in U.S. Foreign Policy deserves whatever encouragement can be found, and Obama deserves great credit for what he has done and I hope, will continue.
A picture of the U.S. as partner is the is the sine q
This is the kind of "Shock and Awe" we can all believe in! Americans have an enormous task in front of us to resurrect our image in the world...but more than image, we need to know that we are having a positive impact on this Earth. We have lost our identity recently by proceeding with "preemptive actions" that were nothing more than shows of force and flexes of muscle. Pres. Obama is just the kind of leader who can take us to another level of participation and partnership with other nations who have been there, done that, and are ready to move on to something more substantive and sustainable. It may be premature to award him with the Nobel Peace prize, but it is a demonstration of how hungry peoples of peaceful intent are for a change in direction.
The Nobel Peace prize is certainly a prestigist reward and in the past it has been used to honor people who have actively TRIED to promote peace. But peace is constantly alluding us. President Obama has done exactly this, he has actively tried to promote peace, since peace is such an allusive state I think the "politics" have been added by those who would not recognize peace if it walked up and bit them in the foot! Though I agree that this prize will put an enormous amount of pressure on this administration to fully succeed I believe that they have to try. It is time for us (the whole world) to work together and do what needs to be done to turn our society into one that will be more of an "work together" unit while still maintaining our individuality. Sounds like an impossible thing to do, we need to aim high!
Hearing the press discuss this award as purely political is insane.
The Nobel prize is not something one applies for rather it is a recognition by stringent evaluation.
On the domestice front, Obama overcame 232 years of the impossible and is the first non white male to be President of this country. He changed the facade of America. And had to address undertones of racism while promoting his agenda and proposals.
On the international front, he has extended his hand to make sure others see the US as partners in dealing with the recession, addressing nuclear proliferation and remindidng the international community that we are not bullies.
This is not an award for political gain to the Nobel prize committee as it has nothing to gain. This is an award to recognize that he has changed the way the US does business, and the US has been stagnant for awhile.
OMG this is the most ridiculous thing I have ever heard. I awarding Obama was not political what is....I mean what has he done but spout ideas that many people have. What has he done for to that end? Nothing he has not been in office long enough to do anything.
I am a big supporter of the President, but I am totally surprised by his awarding of the Nobel Peace Prize. The only President to win the prize was by Theodore Roosevelt for his ROLE in ending the devastating Russo Japanese War in 1907. The president hasn't accomplished anything in the name of peace, yet. Actions speak louder than words, let the President EARN IT FIRST!!
Good Morning AmericanS...I am so proud that MY president has been chosen for the Nobel Peace Prize... not because he is a Democrat , not because he is black but because he is an American and because it is the committee believes in his diplomatic missions to bring about Peace.
So far, the news this morning has been quite cynical and politically oriented...let's stop, sit back a moment and bask in the sunshine of this most prestigious award!
Ms. Maj Kalfus
This is wonderful news.... Yes, President Obama is still very early in his Presidency, however, it cannot be denied that he set the tone for his international policy very early. His Cairo speech was phenonemally inspiring and indicated a new respect for the citizens of the world, and a definite understanding of America's place in changing the tone. His actions since that speech have bolstered his stature in this regard. Those, domestically, who argue that he has been in office long enough to have – fixed all the economic woes cause by a global meltdown, cannot now use the argument that the Nobel Prize is inappropriate because of the brevity of his Presidential tenure. This Canadian is cheering this morning at the news of his accomplishment, which, in my opinion is not political bias, but a recognition of the attempt at world-wide reconciliation.
This President is repor is monumental and this is an affirmation of his humanity and his causes. World peace is not impossible, but we need to get our minds right here in America..... He is only one man but we should open our minds to an example that if more people adopted, this could be a better world. Only the hateful mongals would not be accepting of this well deserved award or President.
Being a community organizer certainly qualifies Obama for this "prestigious" award.
I am certain that the committee would never allow politics to influence their decision- and I still believe in the tooth fairy!
Yes, President Obama deserves the award for just ending the Republican War Crimes as would have been continued by McCain and his idiotic VP Palin! That alone justifies the Nobel Prize! Those who hate President Obama, tell me one President in history, even FDR, who inherited more of an economic, financial and foreign policy nightmare than that left by Bush-Cheney?
The people that give the noble peace prize, obviously are not replublicans, or work for cnn. This was a suprise to Obama, so why are you on cnn making negitive remarks, give him congrates, and move on. Leave the negitive remarks for person that signs your check.
c
This is absolutely great. I am very proud of President Obama. He gives the world hope that we can live in peace. If the Republicans would just get over losing the election and stand behind our President and country, together we can change the world.
I would like to congratulate our President on laying a strong foundation for peace throughout the world. The Nobel Peace Prize is an honor and is recognation of our President's work in restoring the world view of American integrity and moral responsibilty in preserving peace. It is not necessarily recognition of one act in the contstant struggle for peace but rather of a major step in restoring the faith the world had lost in one of its strongest Peacekeepers. Thank you Mr. President.
I wonder... if the Nobel committee couldn't find anyone who actually accomplished something why didn't they just sit this year out? Now it is certain - the Peace prize should be renamed the Politics prize. All of the other Nobel prizes are based on hard work over many years of a professional career.
Re: Obama wins Nobel Peace Prize....Well All the fanatics that fear Obama may refer to a Bible verse that describes The Anti-Christ's ascent to power before he reveals himself...Daniel 8:25 ......."And through his policy also he shall cause craft to prosper in his hand; and he shall magnify himself in his heart, and by peace shall destroy many: he shall also stand up against the Prince of princes; but he shall be broken without hand" Scary, huh!?! Good news is ....Jesus returns in less that ten years :))
America needs to be proud of this accomplishment by the President. This is good for all of America this ratifies & validates this President it shows after the so called Olympic loss that the world respects this President. I see in the media this morning you guys are already trying to water down this great accompishment. This President is doing a super job of rebranding this countries image, but apparently listening to comment this morning people need to decide what image they want and how they perceived as a nation. Nothing is the rule says that it has to take 30 yrs to win this award. Great Job Mr. President!!!
Maybe President Obama was selected because of the work he has done to repair our image abroad and bringing hope for the future. Think about, the last president destroyed confidence around the global. In one since, we were a rouge nation, going it alone despite what many thought.
Congratulations to our President and to my fellow Americans for the Peace Nobel Prize!
Maybe now the GOP will understand that just as we don't like their policies and politics here in the USA, the rest of the people of the world don't like it either. A new era has started and the good will of men is the imperative!
Pam
WTF, We got people all over the world more deserving then Obama. In his books he denounces his mothers race so how is that going to help peace with Race issues. Im glad I didn't vote for the puppet and hope to GOD he doesn't get relected. Most past recepients have worked all their life for such honor. If he were white I Guarantee you he wouldn't have it now. God Bless Us
I think that the President winning the Noble Peace Award is quite an honor. Maybe the accomplishments of his legacy hasn't been written yet, but I think that we all can agree that this President is what the doctor ordered when it comes to achieving peace throughout the world. We can look at this President's perserverance thus far, in our own country as proof of his peacefulness. He has endured and encountered so many negative opinions, unjustly so, and has remained as cool as a fan, as calm as a lamb. He does show exemplary leadership style that I feel like many of the hateful opposers of him and dream to get like him.
Congratulations, Mr President, well deserved!
I am honored and proud that we have a president who is able to communicate with other countries, even if you disagree with their actions. Anybody knows that name calling, cold shoulder and not talking gets you no where in the world. Just watch kids on a playground.
Oh, my gracious! Where do I start? It's quite sad to see the number of bitter, angry and jealous people there are in this World.
What CAN this President do to please some people? Maybe nothing. Maybe much. But, to criticize him for getting an award? How sad!
Ed Rollins, how rude you are. You sounded smug, arrogant, and while you claim not to offer disparaging remarks...what else would you call it?
You, sir, should take an anger management class; I do believe.
In my young days, my parents taught me NOT to be envious of someone's good fortune. After 64 + years, I am proud to say, I took those words to heart.
Shame on you, Mr. Rollins.
My Best to our President. May he enjoy his Award and take time to allow himself to bask in the revelry, that should go along with such a prestigious award.
Thanks for listening.
What has he actually done? Nothing concrete. This award is like the road to hell - paved with good intentions. The committee has dimished the hard work and real accomplishments of those recipients preceeding Obama, and have tarnished the reputation of the award for the future.
Nobody is a bigger Obama supporter than I am (going back to his Senate campaign) but I am stunned. I just can't fathom the U.S. President getting this while we are still actively engaged in two wars. After I got over the initial shock, I thought the Nobel Committee must have wanted to put their formidable weight behind President Obama as he tries to improve international relations. However they say it's not about future hopes but instead a reward for what he's already done. And even I have a hard time believing that. How much of this was a vote against George W. Bush's "cowbody diplomacy?"
I totally agree with MarkP. How can you nominate someone for an award after 2 weeks in office? The man in Afghanistan is the true symbol of what the Nobel Prize was originally meant to be. Just like everything else, politics have destoyed its goodness.
ANYONE WHO ATTEMPTS TO FIX THE BUSH/CHENEY MESS DESERVES A NOBEL PRIZE. PERIOD. THE WORLD POLITICAL ORDER WAS REVERSED IN * YEARS OF BUSH/CHENEY AND THE UN BECAME IRRELEVANT. WITHIN 9 MONTHS OF OBAMA/BIDEN THE UN IS BEGINNING TO FEEL IMPORTANT AGAIN AND THE WORLD IS SHOWING RESPECT TO THE US WITH THIS AWARD
Greetings from Toronto, Canada
Ed Rollins should drink some coffee after bitterly commenting on the Peace Prize for President Obama – YIKES!!
How about Americans just be gracious that "YOUR" president in so many decades have received an achievement of that magnitude on the WORLD stage. I would like to believe that the President's credibility would be more stable now that he has presented his country with class.
P.S. You are very pretty Kiran.
We have so many "telling it like it is"....I join the world in applauding PRESIDENT Obama for reminding us all "what could be". As a human being, I am very happy that others have recongized the opportunity he has given us all. Congratulations President Obama!
Did the Nobel judges hear about all the high school murders in Chicago, Obamas home town? What peace? They have insulted my intelligence. I think Obama should consider sending troops into Chicago!!!!!
Kudoos to President Obama. When are the Republicans going to stop backbiting and respect what this man is doing and let's turn this country around. They need to stop saying "Do what I say, not what I do". We are a diverse nation now and we all need to drop the prejudices that have been so up front lately. This nation is FOR the people. The man is trying to do what he can. The Congressional Republicans need to get behind this man. Bush is gone and he's not coming back. The hard lines of his administration are gone. Get over it and let's move forward. Give the people who need help in this country a helping hand! Remember who you work for! Stop the nonsense and let's put this great nation back to work and tell the top management folks to stop taking massive bonuses and give back the jobs! What about the workers whose livelihood you destroyed??
Also we need healthcare reform. Tell the Republicans to stop taking the money from the big drug companies and get behind the people. Give us the healthcare that YOU have.
Here goes another political play.
The Nobel Peace prize just lost its value – All these years, it has been given to people for their acheivements. Even Gandhi didn't win the Nobel Peace Prize.
Bill
ok, remember,he did not give himself the nobel prize.
if you have a problem with this contact the nobel committee.
let just stop and say,wow,he is our man and move on
I am so Proud of President Barack Obama! His job has not been easy and he still continues to move forward and have HOPE!! He is a Leader and not someone that gives up or is scared to address the hard work.
He has had his hands full and yet continues to juggle ALL of it the good, the bad and the ugly! Americans should feel proud that they are so BLESSED to have such a Leader and Americans ALSO need to WAKE UP and SUPPORT one of the BEST and Most GROUNDED Leaders this world has had in a LIFETIME!!
STAND UP BE A TRUE AMERICAN AND SUPPORT OUR LEADER!!!
Perhaps the decision is a lot less complicated than the analysts want to make it. The decision is a clear repudiation of eight years of arrogant bullying, my-way-or-the-highway diplomacy.
Good Morning from Hamburg, Germany!
Never has so much been given to so few for so little.
Mr. Obama will need to give thanks to President George W. Bush for making this possible; without the animosity of the Nobel Committee towards the Bush Administration, there is no real-world basis for making this award.
Well, another prestigeous award made worthless. How can they award the peace price to a President who has only been in office for 9 months, is leading two wars, getting ready to start a third war and cannot maintain peace in his own country, read Chicago. That is all we need reward this president before he earns the reward.
If this does not prove the insanity behind this President nothing will.. The nomination process was concluded in the first week of febuary. To that point he was in office for two weeks and done nothing but talk, which is all he has accomplished to this point.. There is a man in afghanistan who is building class rooms with his bare hands for Afghanistan children who’s good deeds went unrewarded for Obama’s good talk…
This is great. We should be proud and not allow others to try and devalue this award by calling it "partisan". The Nobel committee is above american politics. People who cry partisan are just upset that they, or someone in the GOP, wasn't awarded it.