Is Michelle Obama Fair Game for the GOP?

I hate whenever politicians' private lives get put on display or get investigated as part of negative tactics.

That said, Michelle Obama, like many political spouses, has campaigned not only for her husband's election but also for different initiatives that Barack Obama has put out, both in Springfield and Washington. She, therefore, has made herself a target, sadly.

I wish this wasn't the case. I said in an earlier post that scrutiny of my family was the main reason I never went into politics. Unfortunately, she's put herself out there, making herself a campaign issue. I wish things were like the old Soviet Union --wait for it-- because the only time you knew that the Premier had was when you saw the widow at his funeral.

Sent by Matthew Scallon | 2:49 PM | 5-20-2008

It is not fair to attack a candidate's spouse or family member - except Bill Clinton, who's on another level being a former President.

The members of the candidate's family have the right to campaign on behalf of the said candidate and they are NOT fair game. Seriously, where do folks draw the line for decency?

Also, the Tennesse GOP must be incredibly dumb after the GOP have lost key seats in the House to the Democratic party even after the smear ads featuring Obama still didn't work in other states (especially Missisippi). Gee, wouldn't it be a common sense approach to perhaps try something new? Hmm I don't know, maybe the candidate's policies?

Sent by Moji | 3:21 PM | 5-20-2008

If the spouse is going to be out campaigning, representing (in this case her) husband, his policies, and views, then of course she can be "targeted." You can't have it both ways: a representative helping out but not held accountable. Joining the conversation but not being talked back to. Of course, just with the candidate, one can criticize the criticism of the spouse: if a spouse's patriotism should be off the table, then speak up and say why such criticism is irrelevant.

Sent by Claire Garcia | 5:10 PM | 5-20-2008