Jun28
Mitt Romney's Cruel Vacation
Posted at 12:07 PM | Permalink
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Comments (95)
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Unfortunately, there is no punch line; I am not kidding. The reporter thought this was a fine example of Romney’s “emotion-free crisis management” style, but who knows. Here's what PETA’s president, Ingrid Newkirk said to an enquiring press:
“First, as a charity we can’t and don’t endorse or oppose any candidate for public office, but I can say (and not just as a person who grew up with an Irish Setter!) that any individual who does something like that may have what scientists term the absence of the mirror neuron, i.e., a pin-pointable absence in the brain of the characteristic which allows the individual to feel basic compassion. The implications are frightening. Anyone who suspects that they are not able to feel empathy for others needs to be aware of the existence of this condition. What is also worrying is that Mr. Romney seems to hold the very old fashioned idea that he needs to actively show he is heartless, hence the hunting claims he has made. Not subsistence hunting, but pride in killing defenseless animals for sport, for fun, for show. In the case of the dog on the roof of the car, if this is true, quite remarkably it obviously wasn't for show as only his own children were watching, a lesson in cruelty that was also wrong for them to witness. There was also the obviousness of the situation. Thinking of the wind, the weather, the speed, the vulnerability, the isolation on the roof, it is commonsense that any dog who’s under extreme stress might show that stress by losing control of his bowels: that alone should have been sufficient indication that the dog was, basically, being tortured. If you wouldn’t strap your child to the roof of your car, you have no business doing that to the family dog! I don't know who would find that acceptable. Mr. Romney needs to tell the world he realizes this was not humane. People do stupid things and one day realize it, so better late than never."
Thanks to Ana Marie Cox, founder of Wonkette, now Time.com’s Washington Editor, for noticing the story on Boston.com and jumping on it.
TAGGED:
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Comments
There's an elephant in the room, and its Mitt Romney
Posted by: Gisele | June 28, 2007 12:54 PM
I am speechless. This man wants to run this country?
Posted by: Fritz | June 28, 2007 01:37 PM
WHAT???
this is absolutely unbelieveable... "emotion-free crisis management"?? a great euphemism for sociopathy!!
heartless SICKO.
Posted by: katie | June 28, 2007 01:54 PM
I live in Massachusetts and I lived under Romney's rule. He makes Bush and Cheney look like saints. You think I'm exaggerating, right?
We all have an obligation to stop this man from ever being in power again. He is an evil evil man. I'm surprised he didn't snap the dog's neck. He is the worst dictator in history.
Posted by: Maya | June 28, 2007 02:19 PM
Finally, someone who understands where the dog belongs -- on top of the car, not in it!
Posted by: Glove | June 28, 2007 02:21 PM
What a bastard,now that is truly 100% heartless.Says a lot about his character.
Don't know the direct quote,
You can tell about a society on how it treats its animals.
-Ghandi ?????
I wanna strap him to a car,please please please and drive around the state of Utah.He has to b naked though.Singing that song that Freakshow sings in Harold and Kumar go to white castle Imagine that in your head. The dog would be in the front seat hanging out the window and eating doggy treats!
Posted by: A | June 28, 2007 02:51 PM
It should be noted that in the article it says that the dog was in a carrier with a wind screen. The dog was not just strapped down to the luggage rack.
Posted by: Jim | June 28, 2007 03:04 PM
Even with a windscreen, it is obviously a terrifying experience, and carriers are not known for their wide room and comfort. They are meant to be used on short trips - such as to the vet. Not on a 12 hour trip. You would not want to be trapped in one of those for a 12 hour trip inside the car, let alone strapped to the roof not understanding what's going on or how long you'll have to endure this. What a terrifying experience...
Posted by: Jessica | June 28, 2007 04:08 PM
I found Mr. Romney's website and sent him a little note on what an IDIOT he was and that I wanted animal cruelty filed against him and as punishment he should be put in a "carrier" strapped to the roof of a car and driven down the highway at 8o mph. This inhumane person wants to be president? IDIOT!!!!!!!
Posted by: L Garrison | June 28, 2007 04:33 PM
He just lost my vote....... what a jerk............
Posted by: SUZANNE WELTON | June 28, 2007 04:41 PM
Where to begin?? Poor dog in a carrier strapped to the roof of the car for 12 hours is bad enough. But this fool thinks nothing of the poor dog's misery which lead to his having defecated in fear and probably because of need after so many hours. He just continues as if nothing had happened after he washes the car and dog down. This guy is scary. President??? Of what...cruelty?? Wow, not much room there for kindness, compassion or intelligence. Whew, setting such an example to his kids and public who reads this article is just horrible. Needs lessons in sensitivity for all creatures.
Posted by: Ana | June 28, 2007 06:23 PM
The roof of a car? How f-ing cruel!
Posted by: K | June 28, 2007 07:47 PM
I'll accept the criticism of Mitt by any of you who have never done the following: 1) driven with your children or pet unseat-belted (or worse, on your lap), 2) driven while talking on your cell-phone, 3) put on make-up while driving, 4) exceeded the speed limit, 5) driven after consuming even one beer or glass of wine, 6) and tossed a cigarette from your car window.
If you have never done any of these things which have risked the lives of pets and people, then go ahead and criticize.
You know, when I was a kid in the 70's, I remember my parents taking my siblings, me, and our dog on a long roadtrip in our VW van, and none of us wore seatbelts (besides the driver). I guarantee you that Mitt's dog was safer strapped to the top of the car than we were in that van. I suppose my parents were evil for not thinking way back then about my safety above convenience.
Posted by: David | June 28, 2007 07:51 PM
i saw this on cnn.com while at work today and all i could think was "cant wait to see what Jack has to say about this"....this guy sucks....
Posted by: tairyn | June 28, 2007 07:58 PM
There PETA goes again; completely blowing the entire story out of proportion in hopes of getting a few hits for their website. I'm surprised you had the guts to post the actual article.
READ THE ARTICLE FROM THE NEW SOURCE, PEOPLE! WAKE UP!
Posted by: blitzwolf | June 28, 2007 08:13 PM
How could his wife have allowed that? Or doesn't she get a say? If my husband tried to strap our dog to the roof of our car, ...well he would no longer be my husband!
Posted by: Gina | June 28, 2007 10:23 PM
What a moron! the country does NOT need another dick cheney!
I hope he accidently shoots Mitt too!
Posted by: Conner | June 29, 2007 12:11 AM
If the dog was in a carrier, how did he defecate all over the car?
The bottom line that people need to grope is that animals--big, small, different or not, WHATEVER.. CAN and DO feel pain.. it is wired in them as it is in us. Be kind towards humans, be kind towards non-humans.
Posted by: K | June 29, 2007 01:09 AM
Mitt's a cocksucker
Posted by: Andy | June 29, 2007 08:32 AM
I wouldnt' have voted for him anyways because I refuse to vote for a hunter, but this is just insane. I don't care if it was a carrier and if the dog had a screen to protect it from wind. I wouldn't want to be put in a cage on top of a car either.
Posted by: Wendy | June 29, 2007 12:22 PM
This is absolutely mortifying!
Posted by: jessica | June 29, 2007 12:33 PM
In addition to the horrific cruelty, this could have resulted in a dangerous highway accident.
A carrier is not intended for a high wind velocity, demanding situation like this.
This carrier could have broken into pieces, depositing carrier chunks and dog through the windshield of a nearby car.
This is an incredibly STUPID and DANGEROUS thing to do, in addition to being cruel!
Posted by: kelly | June 29, 2007 12:58 PM
I'm from Massachusetts and I had to live under this man's dictatorship for a long time. This guy is terrible in so many ways, you have no idea. This dog cruelty bit does not surprise me in the least!
Posted by: Maya | June 29, 2007 01:16 PM
Hey guys, when is the new Ingrid Newkirk Skin Purse coming out? My girlfriend collects rare furs and skins and really wants the Ingrid Newkirk Skin Purse.
Another question, will she be skinned first before she is Barbequed or afterward, I'd hate for the skin on the purse to be damaged anymore than the horid looks that vegetarianism can incur.
Posted by: Eric | June 29, 2007 01:49 PM
I had a neighbor who used to strap her child into a booster seat. The kid hated it and would cry every time. One time she was so upset she wet her pants. My point is that sometimes we have to do what we have to do and not worry about what some pinheads are going to think. Knowing Romney as I've come to, if he felt that the situation called for transporting the animal in a rooftop-type dog carrier, then it was the right thing to do. For a bunch of armchair quarterbacks to be questioning this incident some 24 years later only shows how far the left has to stretch things to find something to complain about. Is this the worst you could find on him? Meanwhile, Hillary pressured her husband's rape victim into hushing it up to protect their careers, destroyed evidence to stay out of jail, and drove a subordinate to suicide (or worse), Slick Willy perjured himself and sold pardons to criminals and sold influence and nuclear technology to our enemies while letting Osama move around the planet in open view, and Teddy abandoned a drowning young girl to save his reputation. Where are those stories?
Posted by: Frank M | June 29, 2007 04:07 PM
Where can I personally contact this "person" and tell him what a jerk he is?
He needs to withdraw from the race for Pres. now! He is nuts and cruel beyond words.
Posted by: Linda McClure-Woodham | June 29, 2007 06:16 PM
Mr. Romney,
You've lost any possibility of receiving my vote. I am amazed that you would strap your dog (in his crate) to the top of your car and then drive with him. Worse than that, you claim that he loved it. We all know that young children and animals are unable to determine what is safe for them - therefore it is our job to protect them from harmful circumstances. Dogs are known for their loyalty - they will let you do almost anything to them and still love you and protect you. You in turn abuse your poor animal by putting him in danger and them try to tell us that the dog "loved it", because he was always willing to do it again. I thought perhaps a presidential candidate would have more smarts than the other abusers we see around the US - apparently not - and you have the nerve to advertise your abuse!!! I'll do my best to convince every animal lover I know that you are not the candidate we want to represent us.
Sincerely,
Mrs. Norell Shute
Proud Owner of Two Rescued Dogs and Three Rescued Cats
Posted by: Norell Shute | June 29, 2007 07:31 PM
Well Frank, the stories you are talking about probably just would not be relevant on an ANIMAL RIGHTS website - you twit!
And did your friend's kid get strapped in the booster seat on the roof of the car or inside the car? If inside, then your friend was being protective, if on the roof, then it was child abuse.
And Eric, since you seem to have a wonderful design in mind for this new skin purse, why don't you make up a sample from your girlfriend's skin first (since I am presuming your girlfriend is not a vegetarian, then her skin will not have been ruined by vegetarianism), and see if you can find a market for it? You can decide if you think you should barbecue your girlfriend's skin first or not...
I am not American, so I will not get the chance to NOT vote for this Romney loser. Anyone who does vote for him would have to be psychopathic if they knew about what he did to his poor dog.
Posted by: Michele | June 29, 2007 09:32 PM
Progressives must do everything in their power to make sure this guy gets nowhere near the presidency.
Posted by: RomneyHater | June 29, 2007 10:57 PM
No, Andy, Mitt is not a cocksucker. He hates cocksuckers, too, remember? I am amazed that some of you say this "lost your vote" for Mitt. Because of the way he treats his dog? Where was your scorn when he was treating your fellow humans so cruelly? Is your brain turned off when gays or women or people of color get the carrier on the top of the car? Wake up already! IF you have to think about that one, you're no better than Mitt, so save your self-righteousness for someone else.
Posted by: Johnny | June 29, 2007 10:58 PM
Even if the crate was humane, you are never supposed to leave a dog crated for more than 6-8 hours without a break. If he had let the dog out before 12 hours it might not have defacated. If this moron cannot even take care of his pets, then how the *#&%$ is he going to run our country?
Heaven help us all!!!
Posted by: Allison Strathearn | June 30, 2007 02:14 AM
What an asshole! This tells me everything I need to know about the loser.
Posted by: Kelley | June 30, 2007 10:09 AM
Quote from an article:
Massachusetts's animal cruelty laws specifically prohibit anyone from carrying an animal "in or upon a vehicle, or otherwise, in an unnecessarily cruel or inhuman manner or in a way and manner which might endanger the animal carried thereon." An officer for the Massachusetts Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals responded to a description of the situation saying "it's definitely something I'd want to check out." The officer, Nadia Branca, declined to give a definitive opinion on whether Romney broke the law but did note that it's against state law to have a dog in an open bed of a pick-up truck, and "if the dog was being carried in a way that endangers it, that would be illegal." And while it appears that the statute of limitations has probably passed, Stacey Wolf, attorney and legislative director for the ASPCA, said "even if it turns out to not be against the law at the time, in the district, we'd hope that people would use common sense...Any manner of transporting a dog that places the animal in serious danger is something that we'd think is inappropriate...I can't speak to the accuracy of the case, but it raises concerns about the judgment used in this particular situation."
Whether a thing is cruel or not should be considered from the animal's perspective, not ours.
Posted by: Mike | June 30, 2007 04:52 PM
wht an asshole y would u do tht 2 the family dog? and glove dogs do not belong on top of a car 4 12 hours in a carrier or not
Posted by: autum | June 30, 2007 08:52 PM
Did she strap the booster seat to the top of the car?
Posted by: Allison | July 2, 2007 02:23 PM
I just love it when the PETA crowd gets going... everyday thousands of dogs and cats are put in Kennels and loaded into cold drafty cargo holds of airplanes...
Also just got back from MA and most people think Mitt did a good job... in fact universal health care take effect today... he also cleaned up the corruption ridden BIG DIG... let's face it you guys are bigoted towards him because he is Mormon.
Posted by: L.B. Tartaglia | July 2, 2007 05:16 PM
All those that are opposed to the fact that he put the dog on top of the car need to settle down. Or better yet why don't we ticket and arrest all of you for child neglect. Why you ask, in 1983, 23 years ago, your children weren't in car seats. That is neglect and punishable under the law.
Posted by: Andrew S. | July 3, 2007 01:32 AM
ANYONE who can do this to an animal does not need to be leading this country! It is scary that more people do not see this for what it is....CRUEL!
Posted by: Christine | July 5, 2007 02:24 PM
Isn't it strange? I couldn't tell you a thing about a character with a name like Mitt until I found this thread, and now I'm relieved. That is one less idiot getting my vote.
If a man has no common sense, think what a joy for president he would be. Fine example in the chair right now.
Posted by: Karen Marie | July 5, 2007 02:25 PM
The fact it happened some years ago does not detract from the fact it DID happen. He also is a thrill kill hunter. Non compassionate, and not a suitable candidate.
Posted by: Sarah D | July 5, 2007 03:07 PM
This is so sad. Some people are so completely heartless; it's scary. Romney needs to make a public statement acknowledging what a terrible mistake he has made. In addition he should have animal cruelty charges brought against him, he should have to do a public service announcement as part of his punishment, as well as community service working with animals. Maybe once more people hear about this, they will be less likely to support him in an election, hopefully.
Posted by: elle | July 5, 2007 03:10 PM
what a numb scull , some people really need a lesson in dog owning,
Posted by: sharon Legg | July 5, 2007 03:25 PM
Had no idea he was such a bastard. Belongs in the same catergory as Judith Giuliani.
Posted by: Darlene McCarter | July 5, 2007 03:34 PM
I am absolutely disgusted and appalled by Mitt Romney. I am also disgusted and appalled by the posted comments by "Eric" on June 29, 2007. Why Eric is on the PETA website making comments such as these is beyond me. He speaks of the far left - his comments show he is for the far right and has no compassion for animals. He rants on and on regarding Democrats. I won't bother stooping to his level and reporting all the wrong doings of the Republicans. Are you kidding me Eric? Put your time and energy into something else other than posting nasty comments on a site that supports animals.
Posted by: shannon petty-salazar | July 5, 2007 03:48 PM
I cant believe that this asshole would do such a thing.He needs to be tied up there for 12 hours..What a piece of shit..that is abuse.
Posted by: marie machado | July 5, 2007 03:57 PM
Who would EVER strap their dog to the roof of their car??? Sounds like a scene from "There's Something About Mary"! Bad call, Mitt
Posted by: Lisa | July 5, 2007 04:08 PM
this type of behavior is common with hunters. republicans are not know for their animal or envioromental beliefs. i wonder what joseph smith would think of this behavior
Posted by: marie yount | July 5, 2007 04:15 PM
What a jerk!!! I didn't really know who he was until I saw him yesterday at our 4th of July parade in Clear Lake, IA. I won't be voting for him, that's for sure!
Posted by: Liz | July 5, 2007 04:15 PM
this type of behavior is common with hunters. republicans are not know for their animal or envioromental beliefs. i wonder what joseph smith would think of this behavior
Posted by: marie yount | July 5, 2007 04:19 PM
Mitt kills for the thrills, strapped his dog(in carrier) to the top of his car, and someone suggested for his punishment to appologize and "work w/animals"! I wouldn't let him near my pets, children, grandmother, OR my country!!
Posted by: JeannieD | July 5, 2007 04:34 PM
This is unbelievable animal cruelty and an unthinking or ignorant act. Mitt R. has disqualified himself as a Presidential candidate. He is not qualified!
Posted by: Patricia Rudner | July 5, 2007 05:52 PM
Unrightous Prick! "The Rightous man regards his beast but even the tender mercies of the unrightous are cruel" The Bible book of Proverbs, book of wisdom. King Solomen
Posted by: Kimberly Smith | July 5, 2007 06:24 PM
I don't think this is the first time that moron strapped his poor dog in a carrier on the roof while travelling. He is an uncaring idiot beyond belief.
Posted by: Sandy | July 5, 2007 07:17 PM
A total piece of scum.
You only have to look at the jerk to realise that he is a moron and with noticeable psychiatric deficits.
Posted by: sue lesmond | July 5, 2007 07:20 PM
Frank, Frank, Frank. First your comparison is not valid. In order to be valid, the child would have to be inside the carrier, with the carrier strapped to the top of the car going 80 mph down the highway for 12 hours.
Two, let's walk a little further down memory lane to when George the First was President - can you say "Iran-Contra", can you say Salvardoran death squads" who killed hundreds of thousands of men, WOMEN & CHILDREN and who were financed by George selling weapons to IRAN in order to overthrow the democratically elected government so a puppet more willing to cooperate could be put in place. How about Rummy selling the nerve gas to Sadaam who used it to kill the Kurds and the Iranians, in the tens of thousands. Now the Shrub is killing hundreds of thousands of innocent MEN, WOMEN & CHILDREN in his illegal blood for oil war which only enriches the likes of Halliburton (Cheney),Bechtel, KBG, Blackwater and, of course, the big 5 oil companies. They despise the middleclass and you don't have near enough money to even be a blip on their radar screen. This administration is laughing it's butt off at fools like you. Wake up!
Posted by: Eden Courtney | July 5, 2007 07:26 PM
Cruel and unsual...no one bothered to pull him over?!?!
Posted by: Myranda Silva | July 5, 2007 08:14 PM
Though it hardly compares, I think it's fair to note that the Clintons gave way their famous cat Socks. Why? Because they had also acquired a dog? Unfit "pet owners" can be found in any political party.
Posted by: Ellen | July 5, 2007 08:40 PM
This scum has serious problems.
I would have to equate him with greedy, cruel Michael MOORE. God knows what MOORE does behind closed doors--his hatred for animals is intentionally public and a slap in the face to PETA and all of us who have sacrificed all to prevent the suffering of animals, save lives, etc.
Romney got caught. Personally, being a proud Vet, I wouldn't vote for him as he was a coward along with every one of his 5 able bodied SONS. There is a bumper sticker, Romney, that states "whos son is fighting in place of yours?"--well, Romney?
Instead they all used their religion (converting others via their mandatory 'mission' work) as their service?? Excuse me??
Cowards are notorious animal abusers.
Who could possibly respect Romney or his family--they have no shame. And where was his wife during this abuse? It's not normal behavior.
It's laughable he would even think he would have any respect by the American people, let alone the Commander of our brave military. He and his family have shown their true selves in all areas that truly matter.
ps: was he charged with cruelty? Has the victim of his sickness been taken away and put in to foster care or humane home?
Posted by: Jean | July 5, 2007 10:23 PM
I really find this hard to believe. How can he drive for 12 hours with his dog on his roof without anyone reporting it or getting arrested and if it were true and he admits to it why were there not charges filed.I think that this was just a bad joke to get people going because as idiotic as republicans are I just don't think that anyone can be that stupid.Who would ever teach their children that this sort of abuse is ok? I wonder what proof there is of this story?
Posted by: Christine C | July 6, 2007 12:59 AM
Why is it that presidential candidates think they must appeal to macho morons by always making sure they have a “hunting†photo op? Then Mitt Romney claims he’s been a hunter of “varmint†since he was a boy, and manages to pull another stupid trick by keeping the family dog on the roof of the car on a 12-hour trip! What are these people who run for office thinking? Do they think that we, the public, are so stupid that we can’t see what a bunch of imbeciles they really are? I never realized that the prerequisite for aspiring to be the President of the United States requires anyone to be able to pick up a gun and kill an animal; in Mitt’s case, I guess he wanted to show how macho he is to let his dog’s crate strapped to the top of his car and then demonstrate what a cool dude he is in keeping his wits and deal with a “poop†incident by just hosing the whole car down, including the poor dog in his crate! That ought to tell us who NOT to vote for! We don’t need any more of the same thing in the White House! Romney’s lost my vote!
Posted by: Margaret F | July 6, 2007 03:20 AM
This guy was president of the American Rodeo Association for years and years before he went on to become a governor. As president of the Rodeo Assn, he wanted to add rodeo events to the Olympics. So yeah, the guy is clueless, heartless and really, really creepy.
Posted by: Michelle | July 6, 2007 08:41 AM
HOW SICK IS THIS MAN!?!?!?!?!
HE SHOULDN'T HAVE ANY ANIMALS OR PETS TO BEGIN WITH!!!!!!!!
THAT'S JUST NOT EXCEPTABLE, INHUMANE
AND DOWN RIGHT WRONG!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Posted by: Tucker | July 6, 2007 12:47 PM
What a jerk .my dogs sleep with me under the covers .where does his dog slepp ????
Posted by: karyl | July 6, 2007 02:24 PM
disgusting. deplorable. maybe the same should be done to him? he doesn't have compassion for other living beings, perhaps going through the same ordeal would widen his perspective...
Posted by: jrm | July 6, 2007 02:56 PM
what a retard!!!i would never to that to my dog. the only thing i would ever do to my dogs is love them and care for them!!!
Posted by: forest | July 6, 2007 05:09 PM
Interesting thread. I am a lunatic "senior citizen" who loves animals more than people much of the time. I read this article in a newspaper, or was it Alternet.com's daily dish? Whatever.
I think it's swell, marvy and groovy (told ya I was old) that yet another rightwingnut has done something totally crazy, even illegal, (maybe?--sure looks like abuse of an animal to me).
Sorry, I think I have wandered away from the topic. I feel very sorry for the poor dog, can you imagine how terrified he must have been up there on the car roof? And tell me again, why wasn't their furry baby allowed to ride IN the car?? Why did they take it along anyway, if there was no room in the car for her/him?
People are very weird. Especially Republicans. Oh doggone it, I said the "R" word, guess I'll have to wash my mouth out with soap now. Anyway, they're all pet haters, every one of 'em.
LOL
Go to AlGore.com, find the "Draft Gore" image, and then do it! (sign the petition) Dream team? -- Gore/Osama. *sigh* Al and Barack wouldn't treat a dog the ugly way Mitt did, I'll bet! Or go to my blogpage, there's a link there to the Draft Gore sign-up. meandthecat.com
Don't remember the poster's name (above) but he got pretty close to the correct wording of the quote he wanted to put in his post--I looked for it in one of my notebooks, couldn't find it. But it's very apropos, that I know. Oh well.
Posted by: AgelessAnnie | July 6, 2007 07:45 PM
I honestly thought that Mitt Romney was a respectable candidate when he first came upon the secene. It doesn't matter to me, not should it to anyone else, whether a candidate is Catholic, Atheist, Jewish, or Mormon - there are no religious duties outlined for any president! However, Mitt's latest stunt was so stupid, you'd think that even if he didn't really care for his dog, he might at least anticipate people's reaction to strapping his dog and carrier to the top of the car for a 12 hour trip! What was he thinking - or was he? It's the same with all the candidates - I'd like to know just one of the whole array who would admit publicly for caring about animals , but oh no, that would make them appear WEAK! I can't wait to see what Hillary does to prove that she's as tough and strong as many a man - remember Ann Richards, Governor of Texas (a good one,to boot)- even she went dove hunting with the good ole boys in Texas, having a good ole time. It's a shame that all the candidates play up to the minority that hunts and owns guns, thinks caring for animals is for sissies, and takes every opportunity to appear in photo ops with guns and/or dead animals! Democrats, Republicans, Independents, and Greens are all guilty of not having enough backbone and intestinal fortitude to stand out in the crowd and speak up against animal atrocities, that occur in this country every minute!
Posted by: Atia | July 6, 2007 08:21 PM
It's hard to believe some of the comments made here, purportedly in defense of Romney by changing the focus away from the real issue. Shame on anyone who thinks that it's OK to strap a dog on top of the car, even if he was in a carrier! Yes, someone should have noticed and reported it. Yes, Mitt and the whole family should have been cited with animal cruelty. Yes, the dog should have been seized as a result of this incident. This isn't a perfect world, but we can all use the power of our vote to make sure that neither Romney nor anyone like him makes it to the White House!
Posted by: Greer Ashton | July 6, 2007 08:53 PM
"The greatness of a nation and its moral progress can be judged by the way its animals are treated."
-- Mahatma Gandhi
Posted by: Carol | July 7, 2007 11:51 AM
A-Hah! Thanks, Carol, for posting the quote -- It was really bugging me that I couldn't remember the quote. Whew!
I have several favorite heroes, one of whom is Leonardo da Vinci. He was a genius, an amazing man. He said...
"The day will come when men such as I will look upon the murder of animals the way they now look upon the murder of men."
Posted by: AgelessAnnie | July 7, 2007 05:44 PM
My father is a republican as well as an avid animal lover. Myself and my family volunteer for the spca, Animal Aid, and local free animal clinics. I think it's unfair to blame political affinity for the cruelty of animals. The performance of this man is obviously attrocious...and unforgivable. I think we should stop blaming political, personal, sexual, racial, whatever affiliations for this kind of attrocity and recognize it as individual. Some people are scum. Thats it.
Posted by: Kristi Carpenter | July 8, 2007 02:27 AM
I am shocked by this man's (Mitt) lack of education, morals and compassion. I agree that this posting should not become a political grandstand and that everyone is individual in their beliefs, religion and politics and should not be generalized. I would hope PETA or Anti-Cruelty would file charges against this man since it is a part of public record by being published in the newspaper. Maybe if he has to pay for his actions, he may change his behavior. The man definitely needs to be educated though I don't know if he can learn empathy or compassion being who he is. Though it wouldn't hurt to try. Miracles do happen. Someone has to give a voice and speak up for the poor defenseless animals that can't defend themselves. P.S. Shame on Katie for saying that dog's belong on top of cars not in them - maybe that's where you belong.
Posted by: Laura | July 9, 2007 01:36 PM
Arrogant SOB. Let's just call him "No Where Man"...because that is just where he is going. No where. He's done for. I refuse to consider voting for him, and he solidified my thinking about the Mormon religion. What a burned out whacko.
Posted by: Carol | July 9, 2007 10:24 PM
I think that Atia (July 6)said it so well! I would add, though, that these people who exploit their lack of respect for animals or who actively abuse/neglect them should be held accountable, exposed, and if possible, charged with a crime. It doesn't matter whether they are a politician or wealthy or just regular folks--how can such cruelty be ignored or even condoned? I would like to see more public outcry from those who see what is happening to our non-human animal friends! They are the voiceless victims of human cruelty.
Posted by: Sharon Houston | July 10, 2007 12:46 AM
Well, after reading this, I know not to vote for him. Him and Michael Moore have a lot in common.
Such cruelty to a helpless animals being caged up on a twelve (12) hour drive.
Disgusting!!!
Posted by: Helen | July 10, 2007 09:33 AM
I'm speechless which doesn't happen often. What was he thinking as he put his dog in the box on top of his car. He had to have stared it in the face. Was the dog happy? ANd as he drove and as his car gained speed, did he think to himself.."There is a living creature in a cage on top of my roof. What would hapen if the box fell off, or is the animal getting enough air, or What the F%$K is wrong with me.
Posted by: Paula | July 10, 2007 06:04 PM
Get a life people! It is just a dog, not a child. Animals were created by God for people to use as food, burden companionship. Romney showed his compassion by bringing the dog on vacation instead of boarding him in a Kennel.
Posted by: John | July 10, 2007 08:29 PM
He did WHAT?
Am I the only one who's thinking "fines"? Something! It's one thing to eat animal and a completely different thing to strap a family pet to the roof of a car and drive. Unbelievable!
Posted by: Heather | July 10, 2007 09:33 PM
What an awful, awful person.
Anyone who wants to do these sorts of things should have to go through it themselves first - so I'm pretty sure Mitt Romney would not be strapping himself to the roof of a car anytime soon.
Posted by: Michele | July 10, 2007 09:41 PM
Yeah, not much character in anyone who is a public official these days. Why don't we make a change?
Posted by: Stephanie Humphries | July 11, 2007 09:30 AM
Get a life people, it is just a dog, not a child! Would it have been better to board the dog in a Kennel? or, as he did, bring the dog on vacation to interact with the children for two weeks?
Posted by: John | July 12, 2007 01:18 AM
John, the people on this site do not need to "get a life", they are trying to save lives, human and non-human animals alike. Stop trying to be so superior - you are a prime example of how humans are regressing and no longer evolving.
People who cannot be responsible pet owners should simply not ever own pets. EVER. Just like people who cannot be responsible parents should never raise children.
Posted by: Michele | July 12, 2007 09:09 PM
What a cruel and horrible person. Years later or not, this example shows how little he cares about animals. I hope he isn't allowed to own one now. And how can anyone posting comments try to justify what he did? And some idiot tried to defend him by saying God put animals here for food. True, but He didn't create them to be tortured by stronger beings.
Posted by: Kelly | July 19, 2007 11:23 AM
"you are a prime example of how humans are regressing and no longer evolving."
I pity for your science teachers.
Posted by: Xavier | July 19, 2007 03:39 PM
I guess that's right. We are no longer evolving. Just look at that WAR IN THE CRADLE OF CIVILIZATION(Mesopotamia(Iraq))! Let's strap Mr. Romney like that story about his car trip and see how that bastard feels. And come to think of it, let's help both sides in the NEXT Middle East war (looks likes its a-gonna' come), just like Iran-Iraq. Lots of money in it eh? Didn't we help Saddam Hussein gas his own people?
Posted by: herman greenstein | July 31, 2007 09:40 AM
I think that that guy Mitt is a piece of shit. I guess perhaps like they say, that's how hunter carry their hunt. But it shows little common sense and compasion for animals.
Posted by: Margarita Cisne | August 1, 2007 11:01 PM
The WSJ got it right. Why didn't he put the luggage on top of the car? Then things only could get worse after he hosed down the dog. With those winds Seamus must have been freezing. Is this the Clark Griswold of American politics?
Posted by: Daedalus | August 5, 2007 07:54 PM
I can't believe that I'm going to say this, but this idiot makes Bush not look so bad! Is this a joke? I would say that I am horrified, but nothing anymore surprises me. When will the day come that all of the horrible humans leave our earth and are replaced with beautiful animals!!!
Posted by: Tricia Stumpf | August 17, 2007 06:15 PM
This story about Romney isn't surprising--after all he IS a Mormon. I investigated that "cult" (and yes, it IS a cult). Women are second-class citizens whose purpose in life is to bear children and serve their man. They all wear "special" underwear called "celestial undergarments" with goofy symbols over the private parts to remind them not to touch that, and believe that when they die they will become Gods themselves with their own little planet to rule over. It's no stretch to think that a man who believes this garbage would strap a dog to the roof of his car. Does any reasonable person want this nutjob to have his finger on the nuclear button?
Posted by: Eric A | August 18, 2007 01:00 PM
I can't believe that I just heard this story on TMZ tonight for the first time!!!!! (I came to PETA to check it out because I knew I would get the truth.)What can I possibly say about a monster like this except that I never planned on voting for you to begin with, but after hearing this there's not a snowballs chance in hell. To do this to an innocent animal, especially one who looks to you every single day for the minimal essentials just to survive. My heart breaks to think what this precious Irish Setter endures on a daily basis. Shame on you Mitt Romney you are a disgrace to the whole human race.
Posted by: Corrine and Terry | January 4, 2008 06:55 PM
Personally, i think that you're all blowing this out of control. first of all, saying that he "lost your vote" implies that you had planned to vote for him in the first place, which you probably did not.
Secondly, this man stands no chance of becoming president. The race is pretty much between Hilary and Rudy. Of course we have a few more primaries to wait out before we can be sure. But from a Michigander's point of view, it looks like this one's gone to Hilary. So forget all the stupid crap you've heard about the others and concentrate on who you ARE going to vote for. And if you DON'T vote, then shame on you, and shut your face.
Posted by: katie | January 15, 2008 01:54 PM
I'm suprised no one has started a petition to punish and fine him for doing this. Is Peta doing nothing?
Posted by: Elizabeth | January 16, 2008 11:22 AM
I wish someone else other than just TMZ picked up this story and put it on the news. Why didn't CNN or FOX bring this up in interviews discussing politics. I feel Romneys judgement is relevant to whether he is qualified to be president. His judgement is totally off on that incident with his dog. I can't believe he was not charged with something criminal at the time. Too bad statute of limitations has run out.
Posted by: patti | January 19, 2008 08:42 PM
Is this a true story? Because if it is I don't see why a [safe] dog crate inside the car was not an option for this man. Did his family try to stop him? Or do they have a cruel (or maybe just stupid) mentality like him?
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| June 8, 2008 11:15 AM
That's freaking hilarious!
Posted by: James | June 23, 2009 11:53 PM