Wow, if there was ever a line that Barack Obama wished he could take back it would probably be this one. Why would I guy who gets called a communist and a marxist on a regular basis ever risk talking to Russia of all places about how he needs to just get past the next election and then they can work closely again.
Watch the video below:
What was said?
President Obama: On all these issues, but particularly missile defense, this, this can be solved but it’s important for him to give me space.President Medvedev: Yeah, I understand. I understand your message about space. Space for you…
President Obama: This is my last election. After my election I have more flexibility.
President Medvedev: I understand. I will transmit this information to Vladimir.
White House spokesman Ben Rhodes, deputy national security adviser for strategic communications, said:
"Since 2012 is an election year in both countries, with an election and leadership transition in Russia and an election in the United States, it is clearly not a year in which we are going to achieve a breakthrough. Therefore, President Obama and President Medvedev agreed that it was best to instruct our technical experts to do the work of better understanding our respective positions, providing space for continued discussions on missile defense cooperation going forward."
As sad as the audio is to be coming from the sitting U.S. President, it does present a great campaign opportunity for Mitt Romney. As Glenn pointed out, love him or hate him, Mitt Romney is not a communist.