Beck Apologizes for Tweet, But Stands by Belief on Trump's Voting Record

I lead with my mistakes.

I recently retweeted a tweet from Donald Trump that indicated he voted for Barack Obama. This tweet was a hoax, and I apologized to Donald for reposting it.

What makes it worse, is that when I clicked “send” I was in the middle of arduous and honorable charity work. Apparently, if I just forwarded a chain letter to 100 friends, Bill Gates would give $1 million to an orphanage that treats children without eyelids. Not to mention, I would get a free iPad! (I’m not sure why Bill Gates is giving away iPads.)

Trump has answered the charges aggressively, and that makes a lot of sense. Obviously, if people thought he voted for Barack Obama it would heavily damage his campaign. In fact, we can all probably agree that a vote for Obama should disqualify him from the republican nomination in the mind of almost every primary voter. If you couldn’t figure out that Barack Obama was going to be bad for this country, you probably shouldn’t be leading the opposition party.

As we talked about on the radio show Friday, no one except Donald knows for sure what he did when he was alone in the voting booth. This is why the tweet seemed so incredible to me. It was an additional piece of evidence that seemingly proved a strong circumstantial case. (That’s still no excuse for reposting it.)

But, while the tweet appeared to be new evidence, it wasn’t part of my reasoning when I said it on radio and television. As I pointed out on Fox, I was referring to the 2008 election, not 2012. Here is why I believe Donald Trump did, in fact, vote for Barack Obama in 2008:

1. He was a registered democrat when he cast the vote. Trump had been a registered democrat for 7 years by the time the 2008 election came around.

2. This doesn’t guarantee that Trump voted for Obama of course. However, registered democrats in New York voted for Obama by a 91% to 8% margin. So, if Trump was in that 8%, he was quite the outlier.

3. He remained in the democratic party for almost another year after casting the vote.

4. In the decade leading up to the vote, he was a dedicated Democrat, with the only exception being his flirtation with the Independence (Reform) Party in 1999-2000. Incidentally, in this period, large parts of his platform were considerably to the left of Hillary Clinton, or Barack Obama. In fact, I don’t believe even Bernie Sanders has ever proposed a wealth tax on what is in your bank account.

5. In the year leading up to the vote, he spoke favorably about Hillary Clinton, telling Wolf Blitzer “I think Hillary would do a good job." Obviously, it is theoretically possible for someone that thinks Hillary would be a good president to vote against Obama. But to paraphrase Donald: “Not a lot of Republican votes come out of blue state democrats that support Hillary Clinton.”

6. He was among the fiercest critics of the Bush administration. Yes, now it’s hard to believe that he would have voted for Obama, but in 2008 he had spent several years speaking just as negatively about Bush. He called him “a terrible president, perhaps the worst president in the history of this country.”

7. It’s not just that he called Bush a “disaster” many times. It’s why he called him a disaster: Iraq. He called the invasion of Iraq “one of the worst decisions ever made” saying it would have been a “wonderful thing” if he had been impeached because of the war. In fact, he was arguing for the war related impeachment of Bush just two weeks before he cast his presidential vote.

8. Given his opinion on Iraq, consider Trump’s available choices as he looked back: one candidate on record opposing the war, one candidate on record passionately supporting “one of the worst decisions ever made.” Why wouldn’t he vote for Obama?

9. Similarly, given his opinion on Iraq, consider Trump’s available choices as he looked forward: one candidate on record saying he would end the war, the other on record saying he would escalate it. Why wouldn’t he vote for Obama?

10. He continued to praise Obama after the election telling Larry King “Here's a man that not only got elected, I think he's doing a really good job.”

11. He gushed about Obama in his 2009 book: “His comments have led me to believe that he understands how the economy works on a comprehensive level. He has also surrounded himself with very competent people, and that’s the mark of a strong leader.”

12. He supported Obama’s first main policy push, the stimulus, saying it was “what we need” while praising Obama’s for “building infrastructure, building great projects, putting people to work in that sense.”

13. He supported Obama’s efforts to fix the banks including to potentially “nationalize” them. “I do agree with what they're doing with the banks. Whether they fund them or nationalize them, it doesn't matter.”

14. Looking back at this period, he described himself as Obama’s "biggest cheerleader."

15. Trump’s argument is that he raised money for McCain, so obviously he supported him. Is this really a standard Donald feels comfortable with? Does that mean he also supported John Kerry, Nancy Pelosi, Hillary Clinton, Ted Kennedy, Anthony Weiner and Eliot Spitzer?

16. Immediately following the passage of Obamacare, while even moderate republicans coalesced around its repeal, Donald Trump made a maximum donation to the campaign of Harry Reid. Reid was one of the few vulnerable democrats able to hold on to power in the Tea Party wave election of 2010.

17. Speaking of the Tea Party wave, put yourself in that moment again. Hope for constitutional preferences was renewed. Hundreds of thousands of people were gathering all across the country and in Washington DC for Restoring Honor. Conservatives celebrated the biggest wave in a century. One month after that election, Donald Trump gave $50,000 to Barack Obama’s Chief of Staff, Rahm Emanuel.

Do I believe Donald Trump voted for Barack Obama in 2008? Yes. Yes, I do.

I could go on, but I’m in the middle of intense financial negotiations with an ousted Nigerian prince.

Donald Trump's Campaign Contributions

2008 Exit Polls

Bush Says Trump Was a Democrat Longer Than a Republican

Trump on Obama in 2009: “I Think He’s Doing a Really Good Job…He’s Totally a Champion”

Trump in '04: 'I Probably Identify More as Democrat'

Donald Trump Wanted Last Republican President IMPEACHED For Foreign Policy ‘Lies’

Trump Calls Former President George W. Bush 'a Disaster'

Donald Trump Calls Ex-President George W. Bush ‘a Disaster’

How Donald Trump Helped Democrats Pass Obamacare

Trump: I Cheered for Obama, But He's Dangerous

Donald Trump on Larry King Live in 2009 (Transcript)

I lead with my mistakes. I recently retweeted a tweet from Donald Trump that indicated he voted for Barack Obama. ...

Posted by Glenn Beck on Monday, January 18, 2016

 

Featured Image: Screenshot from The Glenn Beck Program

It is OFFICIALLY the Christmas season! This also means we JUST realized how many Christmas gifts we still need to buy for our loved ones and how little time there is to do so. But fear not, Glenn has you covered!

We have compiled a list of Glenn's best books, artwork, and other merch—perfect for gifting this holiday season. So sit back, grab a cup of hot cocoa, turn on the Bing Crosby, and check Christmas shopping off your agenda with the list below.

For the one who needs a reminder of the true meaning of Christmas:

Glenn didn't want to be the Grinch who spoiled the magic of Kris Kringle, so found a unique way to turn his kids back toward the true meaning of Christmas. He decided the best place to start was by first turning Santa himself back toward Christ. The Immortal Nicholas tells a powerful story for readers of all ages.

For your social media guru:

1st Amendment vs. FB T-Shirt

Want to take a stand against censorship? Make a statement by wearing this t-shirt, reminding Big Tech they're late to the party that the First Amendment started in 1791.

For the person who takes things for granted:

If you could change your life by reversing your biggest regrets, sorrows, and mistakes, would you? When Eddie was twelve years old, all he wanted for Christmas was a bike. He knew money had been tight since his father died, but Eddie dreamed that somehow his mother would find a way to afford that dream bike. What he got from her instead was a sweater. “A stupid, handmade, ugly sweater” that young Eddie left in a crumpled ball in the corner of his room.

For the person who likes their personal space:

"Don't Munch On Me" Bat T-Shirt – Blaze Media Shop

Have you ever wondered what the historic Gadsden Flag would look like if it was made in 2020? Look no further than this iconic T!

For your concerned citizen:

The Great Reset was just the beginning.

At important meetings in 2021 and 2022, powerful leaders from government, finance, media, and business who support the World Economic Forum’s plan for a Great Reset of capitalism launched a new “call to action” titled the “Great Narrative.” The elites behind these proposals plan to impact the way people across cultures and the planet understand what it means to be human and to have free will.

For your coffee lover:

The Glenn Beck Program Tumbler

The XXL tumbler big enough for all three hours of The Glenn Beck Program! Glenn always has this tumbler on his desk while doing his radio program every morning. Enjoy your favorite beverage in the official Glenn Beck tumbler to jump-start your morning.

For your fashionista:

CORNPOP by Sabo Hoodie

This piece of high fashion bravely displays the most historic (and sexy) mugshot of all time.

For your liberty-loving rebel:

Rebellion

Glenn's take on Ben Franklin's proposed idea for the Great Seal of the U.S. "Rebellion to Tyrants is Obedience to God" will be a keepsake for anyone who loves liberty and U.S. history.

For the one who likes to keep it simple:

Glenn Helvetica Mug

Sometimes it's all about the simple things in life. Whether you're drinking your morning coffee, evening tea, or something in between—this mug is for you! It's sturdy and glossy with a vivid print that'll withstand the microwave and dishwasher.

For your dad:

Glenn Beck Dad Hat

Dad hats aren't just for dads. This one's got a low profile with an adjustable strap and curved visor.

For that person who just won't take a hint:

Zuck Off Sticker

These stickers are printed on durable, high opacity adhesive vinyl which makes them perfect for regular use, as well as for covering other stickers or paint. Or your laptop's webcam.

For your nature-lover:

Landscape

Who wouldn't like a little slice of the great natural beauty of America in your home? Glenn's rendition of the American western landscape will beautifully adorn the wall of any home.

For that one bad dude:

CORNPOP by Sabo Sweatshirt

Are you a Corn Pop fan? Show your support with this classic hoody!

For your golfer:

Focus

Golf is hard. Real hard. What better way to reward your golf-loving friend than with Glenn's rendition of the iconic image of Arnold Palmer mentoring Jack Nicklaus?

For the relative who is STILL wearing a mask:

Covid Gothic

It's nearly 2024. If this painting doesn't work to stage an intervention with your mask-wearing relatives, nothing will!


POLL: Should Universities allow pro-Hamas protests?

Joseph Prezioso / Contributor | Getty Images

Just one day after Hamas’s surprise attack on Israel, which left over 1,400 people Israelis dead, 34 different student groups from Harvard University wrote a joint statement pinning the blame of Hamas' terrorist attack on Israel. In the following days after publishing this callous statement, these students staged a walkout and rallied in support of the Palestinians. As Glenn has discussed, this is not an isolated event, and campuses across the country have hosted similar rallies where antisemitic jargon like "we don't want no Jew state" and "globalize the intifada" is freely spewed.

Should Universities allow pro-Hamas protests?

While the Universities have not officially backed any of these rallies or student groups that organized them, they haven't stopped them either, which raises the question: should they? On one hand, these are American students in American Universities, who are protected by the First Amendment. On the other hand, history tells us how dangerous antisemitism is if left unchecked; and what of the rights of Jewish students to be safe on the campuses they pay to attend? Let us know what you think in the poll below:

Should Universities allow pro-Hamas protests? 

Would you feel safe if your child attended a University that allowed pro-Hamas protests?

 Should Universities allow pro-Israel protests?

Is pro-Hamas rhetoric protected by the First Amendment?

POLL: What do YOU think Israel should do about Gaza?

SAID KHATIB / Contributor | Getty Images

Should Israel take over Gaza after defeating Hamas? This contentious historical question has resurfaced amid Israel's retaliatory airstrikes in Gaza following Hamas' terror attacks, which resulted in the greatest death of Jews since the Holocaust. Biden and the global elites have warned Israel against occupation of the Palestinian territory. When asked on 60 Minutes if he would support the Israeli occupation of Gaza, Biden said, “I think it would be a big mistake.” Today Glenn responded to Biden’s answer: “I don't think it's a mistake to occupy."

This has been a long-standing, polarizing issue that is now more relevant than ever, and we want to hear YOUR thoughts. Let us know in the poll below:

Would you support an Israeli occupation of Gaza?

Do you think the Israeli airstrikes in Gaza are justified?

Do you think a two-state solution is still possible?

Funding IRAN?! Here are the TOP 5 reasons Joe Biden should be IMPEACHED

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On September 12th, the House announced an official impeachment inquiry into Joe Biden with allegations of abuse of power, obstruction, and corruption. Naturally, the media quickly jumped to the President’s aid claiming that “there is no evidence to support these claims” and that the whole affair is a witch hunt.

If you’ve been listening to Glenn, you know that this is simply not the case. Biden has been committing impeachment-worthy deeds before he even stepped foot into the Oval Office—there’s no shortage of evidence to justify this inquiry. Here are 5 scathing reasons why Biden should be impeached:

He was responsible for the Afghanistan withdrawal disaster.

Click here for full video

The Biden administration began with the US's disastrous withdrawal from Afghanistan. Under his watch, Biden left thousands of US citizens and allies stranded in the Taliban's hostile regime. Countless Afghan allies have been murdered by the Taliban due to the Biden administration's negligence.

He was involved with Hunter Biden's illicit foreign business dealings.

Click here for full video

There is clear evidence that Joe Biden was more than aware of his son Hunter's foreign business dealings. From suspicious money laundering through the Biden family's accounts to Joe's involvement with important business meetings within Hunter's company, there is mounting evidence to warrant an impeachment inquiry.

He lied about his involvement with Hunter's business dealings.

Click here for full video

Not only did Biden involve himself with his son's less-than-legal foreign business ventures, but he lied to the American people about it too, claiming he had NO KNOWLEDGE of what was going on.

He failed to protect the Southern border, and actively made it worse.

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Biden singlehandedly turned the Southern border into the worst illegal immigration crisis in US history. He reversed many policies set in place by the Trump administration, resulting in 2.3 million illegal immigrants flooding into the US under his watch, a historic high.

He sent IRAN AND HAMAS BILLIONS OF DOLLARS.

Click here for full video

Biden reversed the Trump-era policy that halted all funds going into Iran. The Wall Street Journal revealed the smoking-gun evidence proving that Iran trained AND funded Hamas before its gruesome terror attacks against Israel. Moreover, shortly before the attacks, the Biden administration unfroze $6 BILLION dollars of Iran's assets as a part of a prisoner swap. On top of this, Biden resumed $200 million worth of "humanitarian aid" to Gaza that Trump had ended—because the money was being used to buy weapons for Hamas.