Kentucky Senate President Demands Apology
Kentucky Senate President Demands Apology Save Email Print
Posted: 5:33 PM Oct 1, 2008
 Last Updated: 7:01 PM Oct 1, 2008
 Reporter: Kimberly Burcham
Email Address: kimberly.burcham@wymtnews.com
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Senate President David Williams wants Lieutenant Governor Daniel Mongiardo to apologize for comments he made about Kentuckians and their views on Barack Obama.

 
Do you think that Lt. Governor Mongiardo should issue an apology for the comments made about rural Kentuckians?
Yes
No
 

A Lexington Herald-Leader article says “Lieutenant Governor Daniel Mongiardo said apparent lack of support in rural Kentucky stems from unfamiliarity with Obama and his policies, as well as ignorance and racial discrimination."

It goes on to quote Mongiardo saying, "we have so many people who will not vote for Barack because of the color of his skin. Not everybody wants to talk about that, but it's there."

These are statements Kentucky Senate President David Williams says Mongiardo should take back.

“Just to say that your lack of support for Barack Obama indicates you're an ignorant racist from rural Kentucky is completely outrageous and Lieutenant Governor Mongiardo ought to immediately apologize,” Kentucky Senate President David Williams said.

While Mongiardo says he does not think all rural Kentuckians are ignorant, he stands by his comment saying race is affecting Obama's support in Kentucky.

“I'm proud of being from rural Kentucky and it's unfortunate that so many people from Kentucky will allow the color of a man's skin to determine who they're going to vote for,” Lieutenant Governor Daniel Mongiardo said.

People we talked to have mixed reactions to the comments.

“Well, no. Most of the people say it don't matter, if he's qualified, they say race has nothing to do with it,” registered democrat Grant Smith said.

“I think race plays a lot in it because there's nobody going to vote for a black president,” first year voter Alisha Adams said.

Williams says if Mongiardo does not apologize it shows his disrespect for people in our region. While Mongiardo says if Williams suggests racism is not an issue in Kentucky, he's "out of touch."

Obama's visit to Louisville in May is the only time he has visited the Bluegrass this year. Mongiardo says he is encouraging senators Obama and Joe Biden to visit eastern Kentucky.
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Posted by: x supporter Location: Bulan,Ky on Oct 17, 2008 at 09:18 AM
Why Mr. Mongiardo you being raise in small comunity where i recall they are no racism we all played together as children would you make such an unfavorable remark about our community and rural ky they elected to put you in office as lt. gov. and your father still runs his business today he was so proud when you was elected, we have our own minds to make you as do you so you should not be so quick to judge. i helped had out flyers for you made phone call on your on your behalf to help get you elect now i feel i was use and lied to you promissed to help the miner get their insurance back that was taken from them but just another empty promise family are still surffering now they also have to listen them being called racial and ignorance people if we where, why would you be in office right now i hope some day you will be proud enough to hold your head up and address you statements against rural america and your home town where we are proud to cling to our bibles and religon,our choice.
Posted by: Anonymous Location: Eastern Ky on Oct 9, 2008 at 07:09 PM
If we are such ignorant racists, how did mr. mongiardo get elected?
Posted by: Anonymous Location: Eastern Ky on Oct 9, 2008 at 06:45 PM
I think Lt. Gov. Mongiardo's statement is reckless and insulting. Don't ask him to apologize. He won't. Apologies are not in him. If he wants to continue in politics, he would be wise to keep his low opinion of Kentucky voters to himself.
Posted by: Mike Location: Pikeville on Oct 8, 2008 at 12:50 PM
Willams is twisting Mongiardo's words. There are people who won't vote for Obama because he's black, and will openly say so. By saying so, they are admitting they are racist, which makes them ignorant. Plain and simple.
Posted by: jon Location: knott county on Oct 4, 2008 at 03:04 AM
Can anyone honestly say that they have not heard at least one person say that they would not vote for obama because he is black or because of his name? Neither of which, by the way, he had any control over. Just like people don't pick where they are born. For anyone in rural Ky to not vote for Obama, after the treatment we have endured from many prejudicial people, is illogical. At least he knows about how people struggle in this country, instead of being from some rich person's ivory tower. All people from rural Ky have been discriminated against. We all need to vote for the person whose like and experiences are most similar to ours. In this case, it is clearly Obama and Biden.
Posted by: Amanda Location: Cynthiana on Oct 3, 2008 at 03:30 AM
Honesty is the best way to go no matter what the out come is. People in politics/government need to express their OWN opinions. So in my opinion Governor Mongiardo should not issue an apology.
Posted by: Antrasia Location: Louisville on Oct 3, 2008 at 12:48 AM
I'm black and I'm voting for Obama. My whole family is. It's about time we had a man of color as President of the United States, the whites have messed things up enough. Lt. Gov. Mongiardo sees things different from the white folks in rural Kentucky or he would have voted for the white woman Hillary. He don't need to apologize to nobody, we like what he said.
Posted by: Oh Sure Location: TN on Oct 2, 2008 at 09:30 PM
Hey Jessica, just because a person has a "rebel" flag doesn't make them racist. Maybe their local school uses it with their mascot or maybe, just maybe, they are honoring their ancestors. Seems like you want to judge people without knowing them, same thing you Obama supporters are saying others are doing to him..but I guess that's okay..too many double standards in this country!
Posted by: Tony Location: here on Oct 2, 2008 at 06:43 PM
Reading some of these comments i feel sorry for the future of our state as well as the country, nothing but right wing bull and you are showing your true colors..if republicans get their way only a few benefit, if its dems, we all do...it is ignorant, racist, uninformed ppl like some of those posting in this forum that make me want to move to Europe
Posted by: anonymous Location: pikeville on Oct 2, 2008 at 06:39 PM
no he should not apologize, because apparantly that is what he truly believes. what he should do is resign from office. i hope he doesn't have plans to run for office in ky again. i think he has forgotten where he came from, even a dog is smart enough not to deficate in his own yard.
Posted by: bud Location: betsy layne ,ky on Oct 2, 2008 at 06:08 PM
i'm from floyd co and i will vote for Obama's. but it won't be because dan mongiardo endorse him.
Posted by: IGNORANT REDNECK Location: PIKEVILLE on Oct 2, 2008 at 05:54 PM
NO! HE SHOULD NOT APOLOGIZE BECAUSE HE APPARENTLY BELIEVES THIS. I THINK HE HAS FORGOTTEN WHERE HE IS FROM, I HOPE HE IS NOT PLANNING ON RUNNING FOR OFFICE. EVEN A DOG IS SMART ENOUGH TO NOT DEFICATE IN HIS OWN YARD!
Posted by: NURSE Location: PAINTSVILLE, KY on Oct 2, 2008 at 05:50 PM
THIS ELECTION IS NOT ABOUT RACE, WE NEED TO KEEP THE TERRORIST OUT OF THE WHITE HOUSE, IT REALLY DOESN'T MATTER IF HIS SKIN COLOR HIS IS GREEN!!
Posted by: Patrick Location: Louisville on Oct 2, 2008 at 05:05 PM
Why can't people use race as a deciding factor? If race is important to a person, why should that not be considered? Where is this manual that spells out what you have to like a person for and what you can't like a person for? If you voted for Obama over Hillary, is that because you're sexist? If you vote for Obama over McCain, is that because you're an ignorant republicist?
Posted by: Anonymous on Oct 2, 2008 at 01:14 PM
I am not a Mongiardo fan, but he was being honest and I'd rather it be that way in politics and government. The statement he made IS a major factor in this area. Maybe ignorance of facts and racial discrimination is not the reason for everyone. But it is the reason for most in rural Kentucky, particularly the mountain counties. I have heard more people say they don't want a black president or give wild rumors as a reason for opposing Obama than people that give other reasons.
Posted by: dan Location: boyd on Oct 2, 2008 at 12:42 PM
Approximatley 70% voted for Hillary, yet Mongiardo took it upon himself as a Superdelegate to ignore this fact and vote for Obama. Hillary came to Eastern Kentucky several times, while Obama came ONLY to Louiseville twice. So, who is out of touch?
Posted by: Anonymous on Oct 2, 2008 at 12:30 PM
I would say that he is correct. I didn't take it as a racist statement.
Posted by: CRYSTAL Location: KNOTT CO. on Oct 2, 2008 at 12:23 PM
David has doged Mongiardo for years. Mongiardo owes no one and apology. Especially you Mr. Williams.
Posted by: Carol Location: Hazard on Oct 2, 2008 at 11:59 AM
You know it don't matter who we vote for we wanted Hillary and the electoral votes put in someone we didn't vote for. So who is ignorant must be us we let someone in there who we didn't vote for. Mongardio you need to go somewhere else the people of Eastern Kentucky are tired of the things you have been saying and doing. Get a life we want someone who we is for the Kentucky people not someone who wants to line their pockets with our money.
Posted by: Doris Location: Hazard on Oct 2, 2008 at 11:44 AM
I think if he would get the republicans out of his office he would do alot better. He is starting to sound just like them. If you are a registered democrate you should have registered democrates working for you not republicans. Yep I think we were ignorant for voting for him. Maybe the ignorant people shouldn't vote for him again and see how he likes that.
Posted by: Andrea Location: Hyden on Oct 2, 2008 at 10:45 AM
I am not ignorant, that word offends me but I fear he is right about the racism. It's ashame we still don't live in a world were people are judged by the content of their character not by the color of their skin.
Posted by: JJ Location: KY on Oct 2, 2008 at 10:18 AM
David Williams needs to apologize to the employees of the Commonwealth for helping his pal get a %47 percent pay raise while the rest got a %1 pay increase!
Posted by: Randall Location: Pineville on Oct 2, 2008 at 09:10 AM
How does "race" affect one candidate more than another? Lots of folks won't vote for a White candidate. What do we call them? Minorities? Underprivileged? Stupid? How many people really think its about "color of skin"? That's just an old cliche. People use color and other characteristics to identify somebody - rightly or wrongly - as part of a group. Its the group they have an opinion about. Do people really change their opinion of you depending on the amount of sun exposure you've had? We've got bigger things to worry about.
Posted by: jessica on Oct 2, 2008 at 09:05 AM
He owes no one an apology,he spoke the truth. I'm from rural ky and I know.I for one support Obama but them again I don't have a rebel flag like a lot of Kentuckians.
Posted by: Sherry Location: covington on Oct 2, 2008 at 08:12 AM
I was born and raised in Eastern Kentucky.I questioned several friends and family and they overwelmingly said they wouldn't vote for Obama because he is black.Mongiardo was right and shouldn't apologize for speaking the truth.I think there was an article in L.A. about Magoffin County being one of the most racist counties in U.S..Ignorance or racism, I don't know, but it is what it is.
Posted by: jason Location: ky on Oct 2, 2008 at 07:56 AM
This state especially in the rural area where I'm are a bunch of redneck racists and they will say straight out while sitting under the confederate flag that they are not going to vote for Obama due to his color. This sad and scary in our day and time. The good Dr. is right and owes nobody an apology for being correct.
Posted by: PD Location: JUSTHERE on Oct 2, 2008 at 07:55 AM
Woah, man. Facts: The Electoral College is made up of the Senators and Representatives WE voted into office long before the candidates were chosen to run. This will be the final deciding factor in the race under Article II of the 12th Ammendment. It has since 1804. Our vote is a popluar vote that voices our choice of presidential candidate but let's face it, that's as far as our vote goes in November. People like to think of our state (poilitically) as Democratic but that's not the case. 4 of our Representatives and the only 2 Senators we have are Republican versus a whopping 2 Democrats. That's it, out of the possible 538 votes of the College a candidate needs. If a person does some homework, IF the overall number of Representatives and Senators throughout the country vote strictly with their party affiliation, McCain will win no matter how much change anyone wants. Don't call me a racist nor affiliated. I'm a proud Kentuckian with some grasp of the big picture.
Posted by: Lonnie Location: Laurel County on Oct 2, 2008 at 07:30 AM
If Mr. Mongiardo would ask, the vast majority of the people who oppose Obama very much admire, respect and support, Condi Rice, Colin Powell, Bobby Jindal, Clarence Thomas, J.C. Watts, Michael Steele and Alan Keyes amoung others. The Democrats are the only people who constantly play the race card. Mongiardo needs to look in the mirror to see a member of the true racist party.
Posted by: Minnie Location: Pikeville on Oct 2, 2008 at 06:47 AM
Fellow Kentuckians WAKE UP!!!! The doctor surely has misdiagnosed the ethics and morals of Kentucky. I think we need a second opinion by electing another Lt. Governor. By Mongiardo being there to represent Kentuckians our lives are at stake. This is sleeping with the enemy.
Posted by: Patricia Howell Location: Pikeville, KY on Oct 2, 2008 at 06:29 AM
I am very disappointed in the remarks that Mongiardo made . I will not vote for Obama and it is not because I am ignorant or racist. I do not think Obama cares much about rural American after his comments about small town people only caring about guns and religion. I also do not trust Obama because he does not respect our American flag. And I will not vote for anyone that does not respect our American flag enough to put his hand over his heart during the national anthem. My vote will be for McCain and Palin. I have had enough of people calling us ignorant and hillbillies.
Posted by: Mary Jones Location: Berea on Oct 2, 2008 at 06:26 AM
Yes I do think Mongiardo should apologize to people in rural KY. We are not ignorant. We just want to protect our Country and not give away our tax money to people that won't work. That is why we won't vote for Obama and further more he is a Muslim at heart. It is my belief that everyone that cast a vote should be required to pass a test. There would sure be a lot of democrats and republicans not voting. People go vote and have no idea what some of these candidates are for or have voted for.
Posted by: Minnie Location: Pikeville on Oct 2, 2008 at 06:23 AM
First I think that if Mongiardo said such an outragous statement he has no business be in any political seat in Kentucky. He evendently doesn't know anything about Kentucky.
Posted by: Wayne Location: KY on Oct 2, 2008 at 06:05 AM
Sorry, but the Lt. Gov. should send out an apology to the people of KY. He's insulting the People here in this State, just like the people did after the Primary in May. It was said that those who didn't vote for Obama were racist as well.... Well I'm a Republican and I can guarantee you that I'm not a racist. I'm just smart enough to realize I don't want an inexperienced 149 day Senator as my President. Sarah Palin has more experience that Obama to run for President....At least she has run a City, been in charge to run a State and have full power over her States Military....What has Obama ever done so far to show his leadership abilities...He's been a Committee Organizer leader...Whoop to do, yep he's the Democrats representative with no experience, only their Puppet sitting on their knee.....
Posted by: J.L. Location: Kentucky on Oct 2, 2008 at 02:30 AM
Mongiardo is right, and he shouldn't have to apologize for telling it like it is. If more people would just do that things would get better. I have faced racial prejudice and oppression in Kentucky for a long time. The fact is that I am a white girl that has dated black guys and I have heard the slurs from different people since I was old enough to date them. I think it is getting better in some ways, but there is still prejudice and the fact is that it is not only the whites that have the prejudices, blacks have them too. Barrack Obama would win most of the people here easily I think if he was a white man and they could look past the color of his skin and not make up stories about him being some terrorist plotting evil in this land. I do think he is the best choice and I think what he wants for one time in our history is to bring all of the people to the white house and not just some of the few. I think he has all people's best interest in mind.
Posted by: Tony Montana Location: duncanville, ky on Oct 2, 2008 at 01:34 AM
Not qualities i look for in a leader in a mayor, let alone a vp candidate...and if u do, then for u my friends i am truely sorry...
Posted by: Tony Montana Location: Duncanville, KY on Oct 2, 2008 at 01:00 AM
Anyone who thinks the republican party will overturn roe v. wade obviously hasn't paid much attention during the past 30 years...there has only been one democrat president in that time, and nothing on that issue has changed, heck the republicans controlled every sector of govt. between 2003 and 2006, what did they do to help any of us? Give tax breaks to the rich..didn't help me..strip away citizens rights to unlawful search a seizure, suspend habeus corpus...doesnt sound like the constitution i learned about..they have taken a projected 5 trillion dollar surplus and turned it in to the largest deficit in history, and if u think the iraq war is helping keep us safe u r sadly mistaken, all we r doing is creating a new generation of terrorist..a loaded gun is no way of conveying our message of global peace and prosperity..yes we should go after those that attacked us but they are not in iraq..and with obama as president we will return our eye to the real terrorist..osama bin laden
Posted by: sid Location: Pistol City on Oct 1, 2008 at 11:43 PM
Dr. Dan it takes one to know one.I think Benning was right about you.
Posted by: Jonathan Location: Betsy Layne on Oct 1, 2008 at 11:05 PM
It may be a sad thing to think about, but it's true. I work in a public business when I'm not at school, and many customers informed me that they wouldn't vote for Senator Obama because of the color of his skin. Racism does exist. Mongiardo could have been more tactful in his opinion and used it to say that people are afraid to vote for Obama because of his inexperience, but his policies are better for Kentucky. As a matter of fact a middle class American would be crazy to vote for the Republican party. The Republicans in this election are again only worried about one class, the upper class. The last time I seen, Kentucky was certainly not at the top of the list in net income capita for its population.
Posted by: CLV Location: Pikeville on Oct 1, 2008 at 10:47 PM
Mr. Conservative, I wasn't aware that either candidate would "lower my taxes." McCain only plans to lower corporate taxes, ours will at best stay the same per his economic plan. Can you afford to continue to pay more at the pump and the grocery store while corporations get tax cuts? If you can, then by all means cast your vote for McCain. I however, will be casting my vote for Obama. We've had enough of Bush politics to last us and our grand-children a lifetime. As for Mongiardo, it is an embarrassment for Kentucky to be in the headlines in such a manner. I won't deny that I have heard the racist comments as well, but him making such a comment is not going to change those people's feelings or behaviors. He should be ashamed of himself.
Posted by: Tony Montana Location: Duncanville, KY on Oct 1, 2008 at 10:40 PM
Also there are more registered democrats in ky than republicans, what does that tell u?? WAKE UP KENTUCKY, as other states that will support obama already have, it is time to take this country in a new direction, far far away from that of Bush and McCain(91% voted with bush), look at the past 8 yrs and i can almost guarantee that no1 in this state is better off than in 2000, unless you're buddied up with the republican party, It is time for a change!
Posted by: Another Thought Location: Rural KY on Oct 1, 2008 at 10:40 PM
Was KY racist or ignorant when it did not vote for Kerry, Gore, Dukaksis, or Mondale? Barack Obama is not change. He holds the same failed, liberal ideas as all the others who did not win the KY vote.
Posted by: Tony Montana Location: Duncanville, KY on Oct 1, 2008 at 10:34 PM
I believe that race plays a major factor in peoples unwillingness to vote for obama. and that to me is ignorance. I am from eastern ky and moved to central ky during high school and am here to tell u that ignorance has no home, it is a nationwide problem, i speak with fellow college students, educated ppl, all the time who say i aint voting for no N-word, or he's a muslim(untrue) this kind of bigotry is unacceptable in this day in age...i also speak with folks of all ages, working class folks that make $20,000/yr or less, people that should be supporting the democratic party, who refuse to vote for obama solely on the color of his skin and they say it straight up. If you do not think racial discrimination or ignorance play a part in the major gap between the two candidates in ky then u are just naive. I challenge u to look at past presidential elections and the % difference btw repubs and dems and compare them to this yr...the results are a significant difference...
Posted by: Kaylee Location: Leslie Co. on Oct 1, 2008 at 10:29 PM
I feel the only ignorant Kentuckians are those who put Mongiardo in office! The reason I will not vote for Obama is not the color of his skin, and not because (I ain't got no learnin') Mr. Mongiardo, but because the man can not tell the truth! He has been caught in so many lies even he cannot keep them straight. I don't want Mongiardo to apologize.... It would mean nothing to me. To assume (which is what he has done) then state why and how rural Kentuckians will vote makes him look to be the ignorant one!
Posted by: Wayne Location: Corbin on Oct 1, 2008 at 10:27 PM
The only smart people are the ones who are against Obama. He is dangerous.
Posted by: Fed Up Location: Eastern KY on Oct 1, 2008 at 09:53 PM
Daniel should apologize, but you should also have a poll to see how many Kentuckians would like for David Williams to apologize for supporting the hugh raise he and his fellow polictians passed for the 2009/10 budget while other state employees struggle with the budget cuts and jobs lost due to the shape this state is in because of arrogant, self-absorbed elected officials as himself. Dan has really disappointed Eastern KY. He might what to consider how our State has been ran since he and the Governor took over, and realize people might, just might, be considering since he and Beshears support Obama, they might fear that the rest of whats left of our jobs, budgets, etc., will also be taken from us. I can't believe he made those remarks nor that I was a big supporter of him & Beshear. Just glad they will only be in Franfort for one term. Wonder how Dan will ever face us when this reign is over? He will never, ever have my support again, David Williams never has.
Posted by: Gramby on Oct 1, 2008 at 09:50 PM
Mr. Mongiardo is hitting the nail on the head, but there are many young folks out there that will vote Obama especially our college grads that understand what is going on.
Posted by: Another thought Location: Rural KY on Oct 1, 2008 at 09:46 PM
Was KY racist and ignorant when they did not vote for John Kerry, Al Gore, Dukaksis, or Walter Mondale? Barack Obabma is not change. He holds the same liberal views as the other Democrats who did not win the Ky vote.
Posted by: Bill Location: Pikeville on Oct 1, 2008 at 09:45 PM
Mongiardo shouldn't apologize, he should resign his office immediately for behavior unbecoming a elected official. In fact, that is what the senate president should be asking for. I'm going so send this to some high profile conservative bloggers to get his comments some press coverage.
Posted by: Bill Location: Hazard on Oct 1, 2008 at 09:25 PM
"Kathie" - Outsiders? Mongiardo was born and raised in Hazard. He could have left and been a high-profile doctor in some big city, but no he stayed right here where poor people need good healthcare the most. David Williams is the outsider - a career politician who has never had to take care of poor people or worry about their concerns because his rich elitist sugar daddies pay to get him elected every time. Just another out-of-touch politician whose party is a month away from losing alot of races.
Posted by: Ginny Location: Harlan on Oct 1, 2008 at 09:22 PM
I believe that Mongirado should think about what he says about the people who voted him into office. I don't think they will vote him into any office after a comment like that. Maybe we are just more concerned about Obmah's morals and and not the color of his skin.
Posted by: Tom Location: Corbin on Oct 1, 2008 at 09:15 PM
Unfortunately, once again, the people of our region are given a black eye by the very ones who are supposed to be our sterling examples of success. Dr. Mongiardo should hold a press conference and admit that he no longer wishes to continue in the political arena. How many ignorant, racist voters does it take to win an election? If people in rural Ky don't support a candidate, it is more likely that the candidate does not reflect their moral or political views. Ironically, throughout our history, people of rural Ky. have embraced those members of society that have been ostrasized or victimized by bigotry in more "intelligent" and "progressive" regions of the country! I have a much higher esteem for the good "Bible thumping, gun clinging", intelligent, and accepting people that make up the greatest region of this fine country.
Posted by: Conservative Location: Rural KY on Oct 1, 2008 at 09:12 PM
I am NOT a racist nor ignorant. I make my decision on who I will vote for in an election based on ISSUES ONLY. I vote for the candidate who strengthens the military to protect my country and family. I vote for the candidate who lowers my taxes. I vote for the candidate who upholds the belief in right to life for the child in the womb. I vote for the candidate who believes in smaller government. I vote for the candidate who believes I am the person best to make decisions for myself- not government officials. I vote for the candidate that believes judges should make decisions based on the constitution as written by our founding fathers. I will not vote for Barack Obama because he does not represent me on any one of the above listed issues.
Posted by: Jim Location: West Virginia on Oct 1, 2008 at 08:59 PM
I am from Pike county now living in Charleston, WV. When I travel home and people are talking about politics, they say the the things that the Lt. Govenor said. Many people are racist all over Kentucky, even the educated ones. This comes from my family to. Obama is getting my vote because no matter what color he is he is the smartest one in the race. We don't need another Bush.
Posted by: NOAH on Oct 1, 2008 at 08:49 PM
OF COURSE THIS IS JUST MY OPINION... I THINK THE PEOPLE VOTING NO TO THE MANGIRADO COMMENT ARE THE DEMOCRATS THAT ARE IN POLITICAL OFFICE RIGHT NOW. I QUESTION THIER INTELLIGENCE CONSIDERING THEY WILL NEED A VOTE TO STAY IN THIER POLITICAL POSITION. WOULD THEY BE SO SUPPORTIVE IF THIS COMMENT BECOME AN ISSUE DURING THIER RUN FOR OFFICE?
Posted by: ProudHillbilly Location: Laurel Co. on Oct 1, 2008 at 08:48 PM
Mongiardo is NOT right. If he wanted to talk about race then he should have said that "some Kentuckians won't vote for Obama" because of it, not "RURAL KENTUCKIANS." He is singling us country people out. I know dozens of people who I've talked to who are not going to vote for Obama and it has nothing to do with him being black. Instead it has to do with his pro-abortion stance. That's why the majority of people I know won't vote for him. Mongiardo is a self-hater since he is from rural Kentucky himself. He will NEVER get another vote from me and I wrote to tell him that, too.
Posted by: Pam Location: LESLIE COUNTY on Oct 1, 2008 at 08:37 PM
THIS QUESTION IS IN REFERENCE TO THE MONGIRADO COMMENT OF INGNORANT AND RACISM. HOW INTELLIGENT IS IT FOR A POLITICITION TO MAKE A COMMENT OF THIS NATURE.
Posted by: Reality Location: Kentucky on Oct 1, 2008 at 08:35 PM
Frum readin sum of these hear postes, hit looks lick we got sum of tham thare elitist hear in Kantucky.
Posted by: Scott Location: CA on Oct 1, 2008 at 08:32 PM
Dan's touchy on subjects like this because he knows if he had come out with the truth about himself he would never have been elected Lt. Governor of Kentucky. And I'm sure he'd blame that on ignorant rural Kentuckians too. You can only fool people so long, Dan. Sooner or later, the truth comes out.
Posted by: Darien Bargo Location: Barbourville, KY on Oct 1, 2008 at 08:16 PM
I think Mr. Mongiardo is absolutely CORRECT in his comments, and I stand by him. Its about time someone come out and said it. Its not just the fact that people judge by race, its the "rumors" that people in Southeastern Kentucky hear and will not research for themselves. They listen to other people and take whatever it is they hear as fact automatically. Do some research people. The rumors you are holding onto we're disproved several months ago, and anybody with some sense that you pass it along to is laughing at you on the inside. I'm from Southeastern (Rural) Kentucky just like Mongiardo and I agree with him. That doesnt mean I forgot where I'm from. Maybe I am ashamed of where I am from? If you Rural Kentuckians want higher taxes, and all the tax cuts to go to big corporations and people who make $250,000 per year, make sure to cast your vote for John McShame. Who knows though? Maybe if Obama wins some of you ignorant people can go to college and learn some "truth".
Posted by: Jeffery Location: Hazard on Oct 1, 2008 at 08:09 PM
OK, I have heard and read enough to make me sick at my stomach. I cannot believe that so many people from Hazard and the surrounding areas are actually defending this stuff that is being regurgitated out of Mongiardo's mouth. OK, as for those who say we are ignorant and that they are ashamed of the fact that we are not for Obama, look at your comment and your misspelled words, who is the ignorant one? Being from Eastern KY and having family members who gave their life for our freedom, I firmly believe we have a right and a privilege to vote for whoever we please. So, your opinions are yours and mine are mine. I could easily go on TV and say if you are from urban KY and voting for Obama you are ignorant and racist toward white people. In other words, if I was in the same room with these people who are ashamed of their home state or anyone else condoning this slander then I would give them a piece of my mind. I think we should seek retribution for this and never vote for them again.
Posted by: danny Location: wooton, ky on Oct 1, 2008 at 08:04 PM
It very frightening to think that we have someone of your character your position. Ignorance and racist do not always go hand in hand.
Posted by: Pamela Location: wooton KY on Oct 1, 2008 at 07:53 PM
The so called ignorant and racist people are the very ones that do not participate in the voting process. This type of comment is a very good indication of Mongirado's ignorance.
Posted by: Leanie Location: Prestonsburg on Oct 1, 2008 at 07:52 PM
Well, I for one am not ignorant nor a racist. I'm not voting for Obama, simply for a number of reasons and it has nothing to do with the color of his skin but I'm also not crazy about McCain either but he's closer to what I believe in. If Obama really was worried about getting our votes than why didn't he make it to Eastern Kentucky, where there's mostly whites, instead of Louisville where there are more blacks? There's more than meets the eye there. And in anyway, I'm pretty sure there are alot of racists and ignorant people in the major cities just as well, if not more. For Mongiardo to say that, that is very degrading to us Kentuckians since he is suppose to be representing us! So thanks alot Mongiardo.
Posted by: Brenda Location: Hazard on Oct 1, 2008 at 07:47 PM
Why was rural Kentucky used as an example as our opinions have never before mattered? If Obama is not carrying Kentucky shouldn't the blame be placed on the triangle since those citizens seem to be the only ones that count in our great Commonwealth? Dr. Mongiardo needs to remember from where he came.
Posted by: David Location: campton on Oct 1, 2008 at 07:41 PM
If you all will read your comments you sound like a bunch of childern that has been told NO
Posted by: Pam Location: leslie county on Oct 1, 2008 at 07:37 PM
Mongiardo wasn't calling us ignorant and raciest when he needed our vote.
Posted by: jan Location: harlan on Oct 1, 2008 at 07:33 PM
Rural Kentucky Is Ignorant We Put You There DID We Not/.but Maybe We Just Got Smarter.,
Posted by: John Location: Harlan on Oct 1, 2008 at 07:28 PM
I believe Mongiardo , since he has lived and worked in Eastern Kentucky is judging everyone by his self.
Posted by: Ingorant Location: KnottCo. on Oct 1, 2008 at 07:23 PM
As someone stated below, "He owes no one an apology"...Well, if he ever decides to run for an elected office again...No one owes him their vote... because he is from a "rural" area.
Posted by: Dave Location: Hazard on Oct 1, 2008 at 07:19 PM
I didn't say that ATV adventure tourism was a bad thing... I think it is a wonderful idea and could really generate some revenue for the folks down here in the mountains. It just needs to be watched and regulated very closely!!! I also want to clarify something else... I didn't disagree that racism exists here in rural Kentucky. If I said that I lied! But it exists throughout the commonwealth and across the nation. What really got me going was the fact that he said Obama's lack of support here was because of ignorance & racism. That paints all of you living here with that brush! Maybe if he had chosen his words a little differently it might be a different story. Nonetheless, he lost my support a while back and that's that!
Posted by: Kathie Location: Van Lear on Oct 1, 2008 at 07:02 PM
I am so tired of hearing outsiders, and now our own Lt. Governor, equate our disdain for Obama with our being ignorant or racist. I can assure him that I am neither. I do not however intend to vote for Obama because he is far too inexperienced, and I do not share his views on crucial issues. Furthermore, although I did vote for Beshear and Mongiardo last year, I will not make that mistake again.
Posted by: Paul Location: Lexington on Oct 1, 2008 at 06:31 PM
Mongiardo is absolutley RIGHT. He owes no one an apology.The Government(Republican's) has screwed up for the last eight years.Any candidate(Democrat), no matter what his/her skin color, who runs on a" Change Ticket" should be a shoe in(DUH). Sooo what else can the issue be? You guessed it RACE. Sorry, KY is NOT a Liberal state and will not think outside the box.Ignorance is not only noted in rural ares.I have heard the N word way too much lately.
Posted by: Don Location: Hazard on Oct 1, 2008 at 06:18 PM
He is right to the point, but ignorance and race is not ONLY here in rural KY. I also agree with a person who is supporting an activity that has claimed so many of our lives in KY, ATV, enforce laws from your desk and yes, an apology from YOU would be nice. Yes, he has forgotten his birthplace.
Posted by: Anonymous on Oct 1, 2008 at 06:17 PM
How many people won't vote for McCain because he is white.
Posted by: Sonya Location: Leslie on Oct 1, 2008 at 06:10 PM
Why should he apologize? Sometimes the truth hurts! Kentucky's problems with Obama do stem from ignorance and racial decrimination, for the first time in my life I am ashamed of the state i which I call home.
Posted by: AC Location: Corbin on Oct 1, 2008 at 06:00 PM
dr. dan is absolutely right in my opinion. spot on. i also believe that david williams comes across as a moron for demanding an apology.
Posted by: Phyllis Location: Williamsburg, KY on Oct 1, 2008 at 05:58 PM
I can not believe Mr. Mongiardo would believe that the Kentuckians who don't vote for Senator Obama are considered to be ignorant and racist. Is it beyond his superior calling that some Kentuckians have more faith in their morals than their pockets? Racism is not an issue in this political race no more in Kentucky than in any other part of the country. The problem with people like Mr. Mongiardo is he sees himself in an elite category, and the rest of the poor rural Kentuckians are a bunch of redneck, ignorant group of hillbillies who judge people. I think he needs to brush up on his course in making judgments himself. I'm proud to say I'm from rural Kentucky and I'm also proud to say that I'm a Republican, Mr. Mongiardo. I certainly hope you do apologize or please don't waste a bunch of rednecks time ever voting for you in our fine state. He should be so ashamed of himself.
Posted by: henry on Oct 1, 2008 at 05:47 PM
I don't care if you are purple if you are qualified, but when was the last time you have ever saw such a junior politician run for president, in my view he hasn't even had enough time as state senator to even have run for us senate, without someone behind him pulling the strings, I must admit he is a good talker, but there was one other person in the not so distant past that was also a good talker and convinced his people during tough times that he also was the solution to their problems. "THAT MAN WAS ADOLFH HILTER". I also don't think this country needs someone behind the throne pulling the strings, like maybe the Kennedy's.
Posted by: Melinda Location: London, Ky on Oct 1, 2008 at 05:43 PM
But he's right. I can't count how many people have called Senator Obama the n word. It's true fear,ignorance and hate run amok in this state. Why demand an apology for the sad truth?
Posted by: Tim Location: Dry Ridge on Oct 1, 2008 at 05:41 PM
The Lt Governor is correct, but it is something that no one wants to talk about. To say anything casts that person in a bad light even though the information is highly accurate. I'd personally like to see David Williams apologize for helping run KY into the ground the past few years. I'd sure enjoy a big pay hike.
Posted by: Dave Location: Hazard on Oct 1, 2008 at 05:29 PM
First, Dr. Dan upset me with his coming out party for Senator Obama before the Kentucky Primary in May. Second, his push for unsafe and unregulated ATV madness is very concerning. Now, He calls me an ignorant racist!!?!? WOW... All because I feel like John McCain is better equipped to handle the job as President. He has the years of experience and the fact that he is truly a middle-of-the-road candidate. If you look at his voting record I am sure you'll see that! Most republicans didn't want him because he favored so many democratic ideas. Sure I am a democrat and I have voted for Dr. Dan a few times in the past... even the loss to Jim Bunning. I was right there supporting him whole heartedly. It is his recent activities (since being elected as the Lt. Governor) that has turned me against him. You forgot where you were from my friend and for that... no one in my family will ever vote for you again. Unless that includes running for the Illinois stateline, so you can be with Obama!
Posted by: tina Location: hyden, ky on Oct 1, 2008 at 05:21 PM
i am apalled at Mongardo's statements on people in rural kentucky. I am not voting for obama because of his views on gun control and also on the things he and has wife have said. I don't care if his skin color is green. I look at his character and his views .
Posted by: Lynn Location: Hazard, Ky on Oct 1, 2008 at 05:00 PM
I feel that Kentuckians are not making a decision on the color of a persons skin, but on the issues at hand. McCain has experience that Obama does not. Kentuckians know what our Nation needs and apparently Dr. Mongiardo has forgotten his roots already.
Posted by: BETTY Location: HYDEN, KY on Oct 1, 2008 at 04:39 PM
I am a democrate and I personally will not vote for Obama, but not because of the color of his skin. His views on gun control have turned a lot of rural kentuckians against him. It seems that Mongiardo is out of touch with the people from his own neck of the woods. I find his comments very disrespectful and will remember this come re-election time.
Posted by: DJ Location: Lexington on Oct 1, 2008 at 04:32 PM
Mongiardo is absolutely correct. While it may not be "PC" to say, he is dead on accurate.
Posted by: Bill Location: Hazard on Oct 1, 2008 at 04:27 PM
Williams' grudge against Mongiardo goes back many years when Mongiardo would not roll over or be bullied by Williams in the Senate. It's sad to see Williams still hasn't grown up yet.
Posted by: David Location: Lynch, Ky. on Oct 1, 2008 at 04:20 PM
When 99% of one race votes for Obama isn't that racism Mr. Mongiardo. Racism isn't a one sided issue.
Posted by: gracie Location: lex on Oct 1, 2008 at 04:14 PM
SADLY DANIEL IS CORRECT.
Posted by: FALLON on Oct 1, 2008 at 04:10 PM
He needs to give an apology to a lot of folks in my opinion.
Posted by: jennifer Location: Hazard on Oct 1, 2008 at 03:37 PM
Dr Daniel is right,sad really sad but true and you wonder why Barack doesn't come here to campaign,why should he? And guess what KY residents will be the first to ask for his help after November yet they won't vote for him--how ironic.
Posted by: Jim on Oct 1, 2008 at 03:25 PM
It's sad but I think Dr might be right. this is real sad for our state.

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