Bill Clinton Calls Obama‘s Deficit Approach ’a Little Confusing’ & Says Tax Increases Are a Bad Idea
- Posted on September 21, 2011 at 11:23am by
Billy Hallowell
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Since 2008, politicos have wondered how warm the relationship between former President Bill Clinton and President Barack Obama truly is. After Clinton’s wife, Hillary, lost the Democratic presidential nomination so publicly to the freshman senator back in 2008, there have certainly been a few tense moments.
With Obama now recommending tax increases on the “wealthy,” it seems the two may once again be poised to clash. In an interview with Newsmax Magazine (a conservative publication), Clinton, who came out in strong support for Obama’s jobs bill, claimed that the president’s approach to the deficit ”is a little confusing.”
The former president went on to explain that raising revenues in an economic down time would be counter-productive to growth. This notion, in itself, will likely be enough to send the White House into a tailspin. With such a prominent politician railing against Obama’s proposed tax policy the year before an election, the reaction could be noteworthy. Clinton said:
“I personally don’t believe we ought to be raising taxes or cutting spending until we get this economy off the ground. If we cut government spending, which I normally would be very inclined to do when the deficit’s this big, with interest rates already near zero you can’t get the benefits out of it.”
Clearly, this statement is a blow to both conservatives and liberals, as the former have proposed cuts with the latter — led by Obama — pushing for revenue increases. He continued:
“I don’t think you can tax or cut taxes, I don’t think you can spend or not spend enough to get America back to a full employment economy until we flush that debt.”
“So what I’d like to see them do is come up with a bipartisan approach, starting with the payroll tax cuts because they have the biggest return.
These comments seem a bit more tempered when compared to the statements Clinton made in an interview with the “Today Show’s” Matt Lauer earlier this week. It was during this exchange that Clinton seemed to slam the Republicans’ arguments against raising taxes in the current economy (something he now seems to agree with, although some would argue he was more generally speaking against the Republicans’ push for lower t:
Visit msnbc.com for breaking news, world news, and news about the economy
In addition to making these statements, Clinton claims that he’d like to see both sides of the aisle further assist homeowners who are in peril. Considering the foreclosure crisis, he believes that this would be prudent. In other comments that are sure to appeal to conservatives, the former president explains that the government should consider pulling back on new government regulations.
While he believes that the business community can be supportive of new regulations and standards, he believes that it’s a fragile time to be imposing these new elements on them. In difficult times, he says that “they don’t like to have too many things changing at once.”
(h/t Business Insider)
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Comments (134)
This_Individual
Posted on September 21, 2011 at 12:14pmI would be very surprised if Hillary didn’t run.By the way, Bubba has a point but what’s the alterior motive?
Report Post »IntransigentMind
Posted on September 21, 2011 at 3:22pmUnderstand that ol’ Slick is making a play. He’s looking at this from a different angle:
Report Post »http://markamerica.com/2011/09/19/barack-obamas-desperately-phony-deficit-reduction-plan/
smithclar3nc3
Posted on September 21, 2011 at 3:43pmBill Clinton is single handedly the most responsible person for our economic collapse. His provisions in the Gramm leach bailey act require banks and mortgage firms take on more risky low and income and no income loan as a portion of any growth within their business. That meant at a constatnt 20% of all substained growth must be in the CRA market. Twenty percent in an industry that runs on a 8-12% margin is unsubstainable.
Report Post »Hollywood
Posted on September 21, 2011 at 3:58pmWhat’s the point? Bubba is desirous of being the President of the World. Global Initiative,is just one way to try to stay relevant. If he attains this, I hear he is offering free cigars to all, who want them!
Report Post »rangerp
Posted on September 21, 2011 at 4:08pmlook out, Slick Willie may be paving the way for Silly Hillary.
Heck, Bill may jump in the race. He sat a few terms out, any reason he can not run again? I bet America is just dumb enough to vote for him again.
Report Post »Lucy Larue
Posted on September 21, 2011 at 5:28pmTHIS INDIVIDUAL,
Report Post »The only thing saving William Jefferson Clinton from being the WORST President in American History are Jimmah Carter and Barry Dunham!
He decimated our Military and treated terrorism as a criminal offense.
His HUBRIS knows no bounds. The only two politicians that can match his giant ego are his wife…, and our (laugh out loud) current President.
Bill Clinton needs to retire and SHUT UP!
His Presidency would have been as bad as Obama’s…, had it not been for Newt Gingrich and the Republican Majority. They saved his moral relativist’s ass! His narcissism is as boundless as our current President Dunham!
turkey13
Posted on September 21, 2011 at 5:38pmBill is supporting Hillery. They live apart and he probably hasn’t seen her lately. I saw her on tv the other day and she looked like an old $2.00 whore from Mexico.
Report Post »rangerp
Posted on September 21, 2011 at 7:14pm@turkey13
don’t hold back, tell it like it is.
Can you imagine waking up, rolling over, and seeing Hillary looking at you? I would rather see a scab on a dog’s butt. Just think if you had to wake up and give her a kiss? would make you want to lick your own butt, just to get the taste out of your mouth.
Report Post »BobMaynes
Posted on September 22, 2011 at 2:50pmLet the triangulation begin. What’s the motive? Bubba as first spouse hanging with all the first ladies during state functions! He’ll be as happy as a pig in slop.
Report Post »ILUVJESUS
Posted on September 23, 2011 at 2:23amHe is so Ill, so weak,his hands are thin, his just don’t. Look Normal. He sounds like a 90year old man. Media, tell us, is it aids? What is it? We have a right to. Know!
Report Post »Pujols
Posted on September 23, 2011 at 11:53pmAnother reason not to vote for a Democrat President. They never go away until they die.
Report Post »If it‘s not Jimmy ’The Peanut Head’. It’s Sick Willie.
One of them are always Blabbing!
ares338
Posted on September 21, 2011 at 12:13pmIt looks like Bill is getting Hillary prepped for another go at it. She would just be Obama lite.
Report Post »FNTM
Posted on September 21, 2011 at 12:28pmMy thoughts exactly. :)
Report Post »SpankDaMonkey
Posted on September 21, 2011 at 12:33pm.
Report Post »That‘s what get’s her ready. Democrate fore play who’d a thunk it….. I was thinking a good stiff drink and a bag…….
RabidPatriot
Posted on September 21, 2011 at 12:48pmIt’s hard for me to say but Bill Clinton would probably be a better President again than most people that are running now. Maybe he would do four more in trade for some husky interns and a case of cigars.
Report Post »Detroit paperboy
Posted on September 21, 2011 at 1:10pmWhy dont democrap presidents ever go away ? Just like Jimmy Carter,
Report Post »The national HEMMMMMOROID……..
mils
Posted on September 21, 2011 at 1:14pmI agree. Except she would be worse than Obama.
She and Bill together would completely tear our country down to nothing.
BUT…SEEING CARVILLE COMING OUT OF MOTHBALLS SHOWS US SOMETHING IS GOING ON.
..Either Obama will step down…health or whatever, or he will be forced out by the powers that be that are pulling his strings. That is one reason he really doesn’t care what he does or says these days.
If Bill could find a way to run again…he would win, we’re that dumb as a nation. With Hillary as president, he would run the show. Hillary will be hailed as the savior come to life.
Report Post »They have such a political machine that it would be smothering to any opponents.
SSOOOOOOO, conservatives best pick a candidate that is strong, really strong and not afraid to speak out.
Michelle and Sarah would be ripped to shreds by Hillary. Oh yes they would. She and the Clinton machine take no prisoners. And Bill sure is being nice in his criticism of Obama..for a reason.
chazman
Posted on September 21, 2011 at 1:27pm… we’ve had eight years of you, Bill, you dishonest SOB. It’s time long past that you should have faded away, and take that jackazz Jimmy Carter with you …
Report Post »TH30PH1LUS
Posted on September 21, 2011 at 2:00pmI don’t trust Bill Clinton, either. The man is a proven liar and a sell-out to the Saudis.
Report Post »chazman
Posted on September 21, 2011 at 2:24pm… This guys looks like he’s soaked with alcohol! Bill Clinton has turned into a drunkard!
Report Post »grandma7
Posted on September 21, 2011 at 2:46pmAgree with Ares
Report Post »slr4528
Posted on September 21, 2011 at 10:08pmI agree with you 100%. If the economy gets worse Hilary will challenge Obama or she will at least be the V.P.. Hilary and Bill are leaders of the progressive movement in the U.S. and they are close friends with Soros. I believe Bubba is starting to set the stage with this criticism of Obama.
Report Post »ofallon
Posted on September 21, 2011 at 12:11pmQuestion: Why has Bill Clinton been in the news so much lately?
Answer: He’s clearing the way for Hillary.
Report Post »geonj
Posted on September 21, 2011 at 12:23pmclinton revels in his “elder stateman” status. he enjoys staying relevant. if it helps hillary, so be it. if she makes a primary run against obama, he with give her full throated support.but God save us all if bill clinton gets in the whitehouse again, what with his global initiative.
Report Post »symphonic
Posted on September 21, 2011 at 12:33pmsure looks that way
Report Post »Parkeralan
Posted on September 21, 2011 at 1:14pmHe is not clearing the way for Hillary, she will not run against BO. Clinton is a narcisisstic megalomaniac, he is simply trying to remain in the public eye and in BO’s head.
Report Post »Seagal45
Posted on September 21, 2011 at 12:10pmHe is only half right, they should not raise taxes but they do need to CUT spending.
Report Post »db321
Posted on September 21, 2011 at 12:30pmCut spending where, Social Security is only spending $100,000 per year per recipient to pay out $18,000. Ok, you brain surgeons where do we cut – SS is already down to 4 people to mail out one check.
Department of Welfare spend $75,000 a year to pay out $12,000 per year – no room to cut here.
We need to tax the rich so we can hire more people to payout SS and Welfare.
Report Post »Grace1798
Posted on September 21, 2011 at 12:45pmCut Government Spending on FAR LEFT Organizations that do nothing but help Anti-American causes. Government borrowing for Stimulis money spent on companies going bankrupt and bail-outs…..I have more if you wish. The theft and greed of the current administration is a disgrace and more of what they have hidden is now coming out in the open.
Report Post »liberalsarealiens
Posted on September 21, 2011 at 12:49pmDB321,
Report Post »Try getting rid of the Energy Dept, the Education Dept, Fix the Post Office, Get rid of the EPA, the IRS with a new tax plan (flat or Consumption). Just to name a few!!!!! We’re talking Billions here, Billions in savings. A complete overhaul of the Government. Regulations are KILLING businesses!
John10Yes
Posted on September 21, 2011 at 12:54pmDB21 – Do you have a source for those numbers? I would love to see that in writing. Good discussion points.
Report Post »eyestoseeearstohear
Posted on September 21, 2011 at 12:07pmAh, Yes….Hillary IS going to run against Obama in 2012.
When Bill comes out and takes THIS KIND OF OPPOSITION TO OBAMA’S VIEWS…
Yup….Ole’ Hill Gal IS GOING TO RUN.
You don‘t always have to WATCH THE BALL to know where it’s going to be thrown…
Report Post »You CAN watch the formation of the players on the field.
Grace1798
Posted on September 21, 2011 at 12:09pmYes, I fear you are correct on this.
Report Post »lketchum
Posted on September 21, 2011 at 12:06pmHe’s stumping for Sec. Clinton out both sides of his face.
Ironic, because somewhere in between, where the teeth are, in this case, we all get bit by the same progressive animal. (which means that as it was in 93, everyone’s taxes go WAY UP!)
Report Post »65Mustang
Posted on September 21, 2011 at 12:06pmI haven‘t liked the Clinton’s since he first ran for president. It will be harder to beat the Clintons, but I sure as hell won’t vote for them. Rest assured they will be a team. she can’t run alone.
Report Post »Grace1798
Posted on September 21, 2011 at 12:06pmClinton was immoral in his days as President and leaned left BUT when he saw the people rising up against him he was not stupid enough to fight them back and go the COMMIE way. Both Bill and Hillary are intelligent enough not to push the limits and destroy our country like Obama is doing. When Obama became President, his first telephone call was to the Pali President. Can you imagine Hillary or Bill doing that? My vote is for Rick Perry but I’m just saying that Clinton would not have done the damage to our country that Obama did. I know Hillary and Bill are Americans even if they are on the left. I do not believe Obama is an American.
Report Post »hauschild
Posted on September 21, 2011 at 12:06pmIf tax increases are seen by nearly any reasonable mind as a “bad idea during tough economic times”, what would make a tax increase a “good idea” at ANY moment in time? If tax increases costs jobs in bad times, then it certainly follows that tax increases in good times would also cost jobs.
Are the people for tax increases really that stupid, or is that mindset and ideology purposeful? Either answer is tragic, but the latter should be considered treasonous.
Report Post »JP4JOY
Posted on September 21, 2011 at 12:05pmTotally fits the “left agenda”. Obummer gets the pieces lined up, screws it all up so bad that anyone can beat him, Hillarious comes forward to save the day!
Just like Volleyball. First the setup then the spike. Watch out America.
God help us!
Report Post »rdk
Posted on September 21, 2011 at 11:55amRun Hillary, run!
Report Post »Resign Obama, resign.
fishstx777
Posted on September 21, 2011 at 11:54amTwo years ago i commented that after 4 years of obama he wont make it out of his own party election .If the democratic primary was run today hillary clinton would beat obama buy 15 percent.She says shes not running remember this is a a clinton .I heard sarah palin talking last night and she is one of the few that knows if she runs and wins that it might not be obama shes running against.One thing for sure clinton would beat obama to run for president against the republicans.
Report Post »kentuckypatriot
Posted on September 21, 2011 at 11:54amMaybe he should have a beer summit with Obummer?
Report Post »Mandors
Posted on September 21, 2011 at 11:49amYou know apocalypse is on the horizon when Bill Clinton is the voice of reason.
Report Post »Redscot
Posted on September 21, 2011 at 4:21pmYou might just have it right.
Report Post »I know she says she won’t run. I know the D’s will have a hard time not going with Obama again, even if they think he is as dumb as a box of rocks. I doubt that he is quite that dumb. I think he is running us down for Soros to run over us like he did in Britain.
That may very will usher in a war like none other, that is if the Palistinians do not do it first.
biohazard23
Posted on September 21, 2011 at 11:49amHmmmmm……. What’s Bubba up to…? Could it be Hilary 2012?
BTW, stfu, Billy Boy. Don’t you have a Boca Burger to stuff in your pie hole or something?
Report Post »Pontiac
Posted on September 21, 2011 at 11:48am“I personally don’t believe we ought to be raising taxes or cutting spending until we get this economy off the ground”
Report Post »In other words we should keep growing our debt and increasing the interest we pay so the same people that donate millions to the Clinton Library and own are debt are guarantied to receive MORE of our money the longer we stay in debt. Well we know where Bill Clinton stands, so whats new?
Pontiac
Posted on September 21, 2011 at 2:31pmmeant to say “and own our* debt”
Interest on US debt in
2000 = 2,500,000,000,000
2011 = 3,670,000,000,000
Why would our lenders want us to lower the debt? We’re paying them a Trillion more in interest. If we keep going it will be trillions more in their pockets and millions in the pockets of the politicians that create the dept. They have no reason to end this cycle.
Report Post »1000-yd-stare
Posted on September 21, 2011 at 11:46amThey’ll never allow the tax code to a flat rate. That would make it too hard skim money off the top. I truly believe every loop hole they allow is where the money is laundered.
Report Post »DeeezNuttz
Posted on September 21, 2011 at 12:46pm@1000-yd-stare
Can you provide me with some facts regarding a flat tax rate and then some opinions on why you feel it is best for this country? I have heard a limited number of people throw that idea around and although I havent looked deeply into it, it would appear to be better than what we have now just by the name itself.
This is a serious question. I am not attempting to argue or dispute with you your opinions. I would just like the view of someone who supports it. If youre unwilling, can you provide sources of where I can get information on the pro’s & con’s of a national flat tax rate? Thanks!
Report Post »TRONINTHEMORNING
Posted on September 21, 2011 at 11:46amYeppers; it’s a “Hillary” for prez comment from ole Slick Willie.
Report Post »georgeisn6
Posted on September 21, 2011 at 11:45amwho in hell cares what MR filth and slime has to say about anything.
Report Post »Blaine45ACP
Posted on September 21, 2011 at 11:40amHe’s stumping for Hillary….
Report Post »TexasTall
Posted on September 21, 2011 at 11:52amYep, just paving the way. God help us! She would be much harder to defeat than Obama would be. Let‘s hope he’s just too much of a narcissist to ever admit that he, a major god, could ever be defeated.
Report Post »trolltrainer
Posted on September 21, 2011 at 11:40amSo Clinton would do nothing? Way to go Bubba! How about we lance the boil now before the infection spreads any further? Yeah, it will hurt! But it needs done now.
Report Post »BIGJAYINPA
Posted on September 21, 2011 at 11:39amHMMMMMMM, Is this where Bill is “forced. reluctantly“ to call for Obama to step down ”for the good of the Party/Country” and be replaced by someone else, lest the “Evil Tea Party” types take over the country??…Just askin’
Report Post »DrFrost
Posted on September 21, 2011 at 11:37amWhatever happened to the unspoken rule that past presidents keep out of the kitchen? Oh, nevermind… I forgot who we were dealing with. Slick Willy never was big on rules whether they were spoken, unspoken, marital or otherwise.
Perhaps this is his way of putting pressure on Obama to step aside and let Hillary run in 2012….
Report Post »crackerone
Posted on September 21, 2011 at 12:17pmMr. Peanut can’t keep his peanut hole shut either!
Report Post »W@nd@
Posted on September 21, 2011 at 11:36amIt’s in the wind for a Hillary run!
Report Post »think?
trolltrainer
Posted on September 21, 2011 at 11:42ambeginning to smell that way…
Report Post »pap pap
Posted on September 21, 2011 at 11:35amWhy does anyone listen to him anymore ???
Report Post »