Politicians exploiting tragedy and fear are nothing new. No photo op, gimmick, credit grabbing or pandering is above the political fray. Therefore it was hardly a surprise that Rudy Giuliani, the mayor of New York City on 9/11/2001 and a wily political opportunist, attached himself to the momentous events of that day with the tenacity of a leech – inflating his role as the super efficient, confident and courageous leader who managed the chaos in the aftermath of the tragedy and comforted citizens. Before he entered the Republican presidential race, Giuliani made millions on the lecture circuit and in the private sector by milking the events of 9/11 and his image as an intrepid "take charge" guy, calling himself "America’s Mayor." Well, the mayor now aspires to be president and his campaign theme hinges almost solely on one achievement – his role as the leader of 9/11. One has to wonder if Giuliani might "trademark" that date or have it tattooed on his forehead, lest we forget. Until he does that, he sure has found new and tasteless ways to make money from the association.
Republican presidential hopeful Rudy Giuliani has been criticised over a fundraising party at which participants are being urged to donate $9.11.
The International Association of Fire Fighters accuses him of exploiting the 11 September 2001 terrorist attacks.
Mr Giuliani rose to national prominence as New York’s mayor on 9/11.
The Giuliani campaign says it did not plan the event, which is due to take place on Wednesday evening in California at the home of a supporter.
Nevertheless, the firefighters association said the stated theme of the fundraiser – "$9.11 for Rudy" was in poor taste.
"It is nothing short of disrespectful to the legacy of the thousands of civilians and 343 brave firefighters who died at Ground Zero," said Harold Schaitberger, IAFF president.
Democratic presidential candidate Chris Dodd described the fundraiser’s theme as "unconscionable, shameless and sickening."
2 responses to “Rudy “9/11” Giuliani – Shameless Exploitation Of A Tragedy”
Why am I not surprised at this beyond tacky misuse of the 9/11 meme? Is it a calculated move that turned out to be a mistake, as in “Let’s go for the grassroots or 29-percenters with the allusion to 9/11. Surely none of the more sophisticated donors or on the opposing side will hear of this and be repulsed by it.” ?
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Maybe Giuliani is aware of some research that shows people’s brains stop functioning at the mention of “9/11” and they willingly swallow the speaker’s crap? :)
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