Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

John Dow, Seattle, Wash. — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 21:22:36 GMT

@pieceofschmidt is totally correct. they got us in this mess in the first place - change behaviors or the situation will repeat!

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Mary Slisz, Floral Park, NY — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 21:22:45 GMT

Way to go Rick! I sent the video clip to everyone I know. Hopefully, the revolution will begin with you. Also, move up the date for the tea party - by July, there will be another stimulus package up for debate!

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Marc Lewis — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 21:31:25 GMT

Rick could not be more right on about this. There is a monetary gain involved here for people who couldn't afford these houses in the first place.

Where is my mortgage bailout for being smart and not getting into this mess?

I also started a Facebook group for those that feel the same way.

http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=63519654812

You have to be logged in to get to it.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

A.P. Butler — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 21:32:00 GMT

Since Mr Santelli seems to be so convinced he's 'right-on' about this situtation we're in, why didn't HE run for the presidency and push his agenda?
It's easy to criticize others, isn't it? Rich fat-cat whiner.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Paul — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 21:32:24 GMT

Hey Rick tell your thieving gangsters on wall street to return the trillions before you start on main street...

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Jon Whitmore, Utica, NY — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 21:33:01 GMT

It begins!

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Dan Walsh, Grifftih, Indiana — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 21:35:04 GMT

I agree with Mr. Santelli.

Obama did run on trillion dollar spending bills

I'm shock NBC hasn't fired Mr. Santelli for forgetting to stick to the Obama talking points!

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Carl, Dayton, OH — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 21:37:36 GMT

Rick Santelli: Now one of my new favorite people.

LOL. Awesome man, right on the nose.

I'm usually pretty cool with most people but I dislike Obama more and more each day.

I did my work at school, got good grades in school, begged my parents to cosign a loan for an associate's degree and show up on time every day for work. I WORK FOR MY MONEY AND "SUCCESS". If you want something you have to work for it. Pick up the help wanted ads. Don't have irresponsible sex when you can't afford kids. If your boyfriend is unstable and likely to leave then you shouldn't be having sex. Period. If you can't afford a house don't buy a house. I can't freaking stand the absolute stupidity and irresponsibility that is encouraged in this country today.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Dave Dark — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 21:40:49 GMT

"There are more millionaires per square inch on the trading floor of the Chicago Mercantile Exchange than any other place on earth." That is what the CME members like to brag about. Rick Santelli is an elitist a-hole. The boyz at the Merc have pushed the failed trickle-down economics and ant-regulation philosophy that created the finacial meltdown. Average people all across America are suffering because of the stupid, elitist policies that Santelli embraces. We bailed out Wall Street and they soon forget. Somebody, please fire Rick Santelli. What does he do for our economy and country? He is a true talking fool. Anybody could do his job and do it better.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Aaron Barnes, Sequim, Washington — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 21:43:59 GMT

Rick Santelli certainly has the right to express his opinion about anything, but his screed about troubled mortgage supports was over the top. Indeed it was worthy of Rush Limbaugh. I for one would not be sad to see Mr Santelli disappear from CNBC air. Very likely he could find employment substituting for Mr Limbaugh if the latter needed a replacement (because, for example, of chemical challenges). Of course, if that job is not open, Mr Santelli might face unemployment, be unable to pay his mortgage, and thereby become a "loser". Ah, well. Maybe he would be bailed out.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Angie — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 21:47:19 GMT

I could not agree more with Santelli. Finally, someone who is telling it like it is. People need to be acountable for their actions and lose the sense of entitlement that they "deserve" everything. People made choices to get into mortgages and now they have to deal with the repercussions of those choices. Bailing them out only reinforces poor behavior. We have consumed ourselves to death over the past decade and now we get to live through the "hangover" that goes along w/ that. Asprin will only mask the problem.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Brant Nekris — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 21:47:28 GMT

At last the people may have a voice- and it won't be out of Washington D.C.
Rick it takes the people to ban togeather to right the wrongs in this country. A simple solution to reduce intentory and reward those who are ready willing and able to pay for their piece of the American Dream.
Let me add there is a class of people ready willing and able to close on houses in 30 days or less. The Veterans with their benefits and pensions and credit scores are golden for loans, not to mention the 25% guarentee the Government gives the lender. So with a 25% guarentee and a 20% down payment why isn't someone tapping this source to reduce the inventory in the market, and who better than a Vet deserves an opportunity to enjoy the American dream they put their lives on the line for. There are millions of us out their who once again will put it on the line for America---God bless you for your sense and insight

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

J. Schaefer, San Diego, CA — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 21:47:33 GMT

Finally some truth and real straight talk from NBC. Wow, is NBC finally wising up and working for the people and not Obama. I doubt it, but what a breath of fresh air, and some hope for the future when hearing some straight-forward talk. Way to go Santelli - and I agree with Santelli, Benjamin Franklin and Thomas Jefferson are rolling over in their graves!

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Andy Olsen, Madison, WI — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 21:47:43 GMT

Rick Santelli insults the victims of the greedy lending practices and lax regulation of the past decade. Where was Santelli when this situation was being created? I'm betting he was cheerleading the "losers" who got us into this mess in the first place.

Santelli demands people be thrown out of their homes. Where is this hypocrite's ire toward the people who lent the money? The people who created this?

Screw Santelli.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Jennie Haluska — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 21:48:49 GMT

Rick Santelli is absolutely right! I do not want to pay for water-drinkers' mortgages either! Count me in on the tea party.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Brad — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 21:49:37 GMT

Rick,

Did you ever stop to think, if the Federal Reserve and U.S. Government didn't ride to the rescue of Wall Street and the Financial Industry, CNBC wouldn't be of much use to anyone and you might be unemployed by now.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Michael Flood — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 21:49:48 GMT

You freak out like that over buying up mortgages. Why did you freak out like that when the govnerment bought up losers like banks and brokerage firms? Where was the freak out over the TARP money?

Oh, wait - that money goes to your industry, and your job, so you can't freak out on that.

Hypocrit.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Brant Nekris — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 21:50:05 GMT

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Rebecca, MA — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 21:50:13 GMT

I think that the American people should be voting on this! Mr Santelli has a fabulous idea! I for one do not want my tax money bailing out those who went and bought a home that they couldn't afford. I would LOVE to own a home where my children have their own bedrooms and it would be heaven to have an extra bathroom, but my husband and I decided to live in the real world and buy a home that we could actually pay for. Irresponsible behavior should not be rewarded! It is not a fair policy for those of us that pay our mortgage, taxes, insurance, etc on time. We do without all the extras that are not necessary to pay our bills in this horrible economy that we did not create but sure as heck will be paying for!

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Ryan Osborn — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 21:51:38 GMT

Thanks for the comments. It is interesting to see a Facebook group already started.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Linda , Austin, TX — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 21:53:30 GMT

Way to go Rick!
Watch the show "Frontline" that explains how this whole mess started... it is multifaceted and the layers are deep! Let the Revolution BEGIN!!

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Duke Ameye, Falls Church, va — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 21:53:45 GMT

I will bring my own tea and be happy to join any protest to stop this Government from destroying what is left!!!

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

LaRae, Seattle — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 21:54:39 GMT

Mr. Santelli needs to remember that "We the People" voted for Obama for a reason. In fact, every single person - Republican or otherwise - could stand to remember that. I don't know why it is so easy for them to forget, but hopefully they will catch up soon.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Jenn — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 21:57:44 GMT

WTG Mr. Rick Santelli!!!! Thank you for speaking on the MAJORITY of Americans! I applaud you!!!!!

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Foot, meet Mouth Your Neighbor USA — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 21:58:53 GMT

5M jobs were lost in the past 6 months.

The unfortunate thing is that even if 80% of these people who have been layed off are able to become gainfully employed again, their productive capability (income) is probably below where it used to be. As a result, there is a large possibility that income falls.

Comments such as Mr. Santelli's do hold some merit, but may result in a backlash of massive chapter 7 bankruptcy filings (which appears to be Mr. Santelli's ideal)

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Angie, WI — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 22:00:11 GMT

I live in the United States because I like capitalism and I believe in the free market. If I wanted to live in a socialist state, I would move to one. Again - way to go Santelli.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Cincinnati, Ohio — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 22:08:52 GMT

Chicago pork party, I'm there whats the date ? Lets revolt against socialism.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Danny, Wilton, NY — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 22:09:58 GMT

Bullsh*t Mr. Santelli! I am offended by your comments. It was not my decision to be laid off. It was not my choice to have the economy tank. Do you believe that the only people that get this help are slackers? I paid my mortgage EVERY month, on time, for 15 years. I defy you to pay your mortgage on unemployment alone! Bad form Mr. Santelli...shame on you CNBC!

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

CARMEN ERWIN ZACHARY,LA — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 22:11:18 GMT

BRAVO, RICK THANK YOU FOR SPEAKING UP FOR AMERICANS THANKS,CARMEN ERWIN

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

RR denver co — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 22:11:52 GMT

Responsible Homeowner Revolt
Of
2009
The Tea Party of 2009

Press Release / call to action: Responsible Homeowner Revolt of 2009
Please email to other Responsible Homeowners

Starting on April 1, 2009, in a nationwide protest, millions of Responsible Homeowners (HOME OWNERS THAT ACTUALLY PAY THEIR BILLS AND ARE NOT IN FORECLOSURE) are going to withhold their mortgage payments for the month of April to protest government bailouts of irresponsible homeowners.

An estimated 93% of the American Homeowners are current with their mortgage payments. The US Government and the home finance titans Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac want these Responsible Homeowners, to pick up the tab for over leveraged, irresponsible homeowners and to pay for the fraud and stupidity of Fannie and Freddie.

Mortgage Companies are expected to receive 10’s of millions of letters like the one below instead of the typical monthly payment.

Dear Mortgage Company:

Instead of receiving my monthly payment you are receiving this letter. I am current with my mortgage payments and you have greatly profited from my loan. I am not in a financial position to pay for financial mistakes of others as is being required under the National Bailouts. Therefore, I am withholding my April payment to you to offset a small portion of the Bailout expenses. I understand that this is not permitted under my loan agreement; however, I never agreed to be forced to bail out your industry.

Based on your industry’s recent success in securing taxpayer bailouts for Fannie Mae Freddie Mac and the other mortgage companies; I am confident you will figure out how to survive without my April Payment.

This letter should be one of tens of millions that you will receive in April 2009 from Responsible Homeowners across the nation. If this nationwide Responsible Homeowner Revolt is successful you should have no problem convincing the Federal Government to cover your losses as it will be virtually impossible for you to survive without the estimated $165 billion in loan payments your industry receives monthly from Responsible Homeowners.

I will resume my normal payments in May. I appreciate your understanding that before I take on a major financial obligation, like bailing out your industry, I have to save up some money.

Sincerely,

The Responsible Homeowner Revolt Of 2009 was not started by any political party, committee, 501 c3 or any political action committee. This is a true grass roots revolt.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Kinsey Barnard Phoenix, AZ — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 22:13:45 GMT

At last, someone who can reach a wide audience that speaks the mind of the people. If he has a tea party in Chicago I'll come.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

barry Kay — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 22:14:53 GMT

Rick, did you scream when the gov't bailed out the Brokerage Houses or the Banks?

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Lorraine Norton, Dana Point, CA — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 22:14:59 GMT

To my new hero: Rick, you expressed perfectly for all Americans that had to work 8-hours a day, go to night school, pay for our education, bills, and mortgages, etc. in a timely fashion in addition to raising our families. And as first-generation Americans say "God Bless America" every day. Count me in for your Lake Michigan Tea Party!

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

A.P. Butler — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 22:15:23 GMT

What he (Andy Olsen) said. Absolutely RIGHT ON!

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Thorstein Veblen — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 22:17:44 GMT

WAKE UP!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Rick Santelli is a wall street POS who is responsible for this mess in the first place. This "populist" is bringing in more then a million a year.

The fact is: EQUITY IN HOMES WAS TRANSFERRED TO WALL STREET IN THE FORM OF BONUSES. If you've lost value in your home and are unable to refinance it is because people like Rick Santelli took it. Period.

We need to bring back the guillotine for elitist rich guys like Santelli.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

mark mclaughlin — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 22:18:38 GMT

the percentage of people in this country that did the right thing in this mortage crisis and they are the ones this stimulus plan helps , u have no reason to be complaining about your mortgage and your bailout because you can afford to pay your mortgage unlike millions of people, you don't average american on tv whining about the things you are because the average american is too busy trying to figure out where the next meal is coming from....STOP YOUR WHINING.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

DPeterson, New York, NY — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 22:19:10 GMT

Shameful. This is the kind of "me first" attitude on Wall St that got us into this mess. Getting a bunch of traders on the exchange floor to cheer is no triumph -- just toss in some read meat. Visit some of the places and people really hard hit by aggressive mortgage selling before popping off.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Terry Townsend Sun Prairie, WI 53590 — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 22:20:23 GMT

Rick - Brillant. Maybe you'll inspire others to speak out, you may have stated something today. Please keep me on the list for the Navy Pier Tea Party. I organize a bus myself to attend. Terry Townsend

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

LARRY MILTON ZACHARY,LA. — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 22:20:34 GMT

THANK YOU,LET'S TAKE A VOTE---IS VOTING STILL LEGAL IN THE GOOD OLD U.S.A.?----OR DO PEOPLE IN SOCIALIST COUNTRIES GET TO VOTE? LARRY MILTON

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Anson J, Los Angeles, CA — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 22:20:44 GMT

Look at the ridiculous amount of airtime this tiny, tiny story has been given across all the news shows on MSNBC.

This looks to me to be a transparent attempt by MSNBC management to contrive its own little "sensation" to give voice to and drum up support for its anti-administration agenda.

The news trying to make the news rather than report it.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Merc, Cranbury, NJ — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 22:22:29 GMT

listen up racists, you're talking about a chip of ice off the iceberg when you talk about any of these individuals who were victims of greedy mortgage lenders, and you know it.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Kat, Orlando, Florida — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 22:25:33 GMT

This is a very small minded comment about foreclosures. This implies that everyone in need of help was too stupid to read their mortgage paperwork or too stupid to buy a home that was within their means. There are always a few people that will take advantage of a situation; but there are plenty of people out there in need of help because they lost their jobs. The housing industry is directly linked to the jobs market. Maybe you should ask a Wall St. or bank employee that has been laid off how they feel about things now?

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Dave Tonkinson — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 22:25:58 GMT

Bingo... Rick...Thanks for saying it !
Finally someone has the backbone to stand up against this ever left leaning, taxaholic government.
I’ll see you at the party Rick... I have my tea bag and I’m raring to go....

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

RR denver CO — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 22:27:03 GMT

Finally a voice for the normal Americans. Home Foreclosures suck but try to find a real number on owner occupied foreclosures that have gone to deed and it is nearly impossible.

The "expert source" often sited for foreclosures is Realty Trac which makes their money selling access to their web site that is a list of foreclosed homes, hardly an unbiased source. there are around 75 Million owner occupied homes in the Country. 3% is 2.25 million homes and Realty Trac claims that their expert source list has between 750,000 and 1.5 M homes (I have not paid to check it out). their own site then would indicate that only 1% to 2% of the national housing inventory is lender owned at any time.

the doom BS has to stop and saying 40% of homes face foreclosure is just wrong. saying 9 million homes will be saved is wrong.

RHR 2009

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Connie C., Sioux Falls, SD — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 22:28:15 GMT

Hey Rick, how did these folks (you know, the water DRINKERS) get mortgages in the first place? Hmmm, I think maybe they went to a bank and the BANK determined that they were credit-worthy. (In other words, the borrowers didn't DEMAND that they be given a mortgage, did they?)

Why haven't you given a similar RANT about the BANKS and WALL STREET, for holding out tin cups that Americans just filled to the brim with taxpayer TARP funds? It seems to me that it was the BANKS and WALL STREET - you know, greedy guys like YOU - who got us into this mess. (Who were the water DRINKERS then?)

Ya can't throw a hissy fit about one, without being equally upset about the other.

As far as VOTING on this, we voted in November. (I don't recall Dub-Yah asking the American people to VOTE on the Iraq war.) Get real!

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Terri, Orlando — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 22:29:05 GMT

Thank you, thank you!!! Some very wise comments from Rick Santelli...thank you for speaking the TRUTH!! I couldn't have said it better myself!
Count me in as well!

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Corporate Risk Actuary, New York NY — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 22:31:02 GMT

Interesting. It seems somewhere within Mr. Santelli's comments, it was described the problem is transfer of corporate debt and risk to the public. Privatized profits, socialized losses as well as risk.

One has to ask if government would be more effective today if it hadn't deregulated the financial system, over-leveraged itself with insurance-backed obligations, and corporate taxes were collected 100% of the time. (Not the 30% as it is today)
http://money.cnn.com/2008/08/12/news/economy/corporate_taxes/

Employment is vitally important, but so is corporate responsibility and corporate citizenship. The aura of deregulation brought with it diluted responsibility. You may disagree with this, but when was the last time you saw a Fortune 500 donate consumables to a community affected by layoffs? Call your local school. I've learned that mine is actually collecting food for those affected.

The old adage of "What's good for GM is also good for America" seems to have lost it's sparkle. Perhaps it's time to look at "What's good for National Security is good for America" or "Investments in America is good for America". But such a radical change includes becoming self-sustainable from every perspective.

Innovate, as Steve Ballmer suggested two weeks ago:
http://www.alleyinsider.com/2009/2/ballmer-expects-a-fundamental-economic-reset

Perhaps yesterday's announcement of Consulting Firm BearingPoint's insolvency should be a wake up call to the seriousness and necessity of changing course!

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Wayne, Charlotte Hall, MD — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 22:32:22 GMT

I know who Santelli speaks for and it is not
the average citizen. He represents the haves,
not the have nots. He speaks for greed and
has no compassion for the average "Joe".

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Don — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 22:32:38 GMT

The whiners here are the people that wasted their money and their time on frivolties and are envious of those that didn't, so they cry like children.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Al E, Portland, OR — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 22:33:05 GMT

What a hypocrite, I don't remember him advancing the "moral hazard" argument when Citi, B of A and the rest of the banks were getting billions. Spare me the faux populist outrage coming from a member of a notoriously hyper greedy, unethical and morally bankrupt class: the wall street trader. It seems like as a society were comfortable allowing millionaire bankers to abscond with billions in tax money but take great exception and scream "Socialism" whenever it's proposed that we should be helping the average person weather deserving or not.

Al E.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

phil hamden conn — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 22:33:17 GMT

I would like to correct all those above who think Rick S has taken this position only against homeowner bailouts. Rick has spoken out against ALL bailouts. He was vociferous in his opposition to the original TARP and he has consistently expressed the position that the government needs to let the markets do what they do; efficiently manage our nations resources.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Jamie, Seattle — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 22:34:20 GMT

My Husband, who has a small dirt work company, has been out of work since the home builder he was working for went bankrupt in October and left him out $50,000 for work all ready done. We have been home owners for 32 years in various locations. We didn't buy above our means, we just bet on two incomes to pay the bills. Obama's mortage bail out would help us to be able to keep our home. I work a 40+ week plus a 2 hour commute each day.And am grateful to have a job. So please don't judge all with your outrage there are Many circumstances that had nothing to do with extra bathrooms and new cars!!!

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Mt Woman, Fitchburg, MA — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 22:37:51 GMT

Well said Rick Santelli, where's my box of tea, I'm ready and warming up in the bullpen!!!

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

John Kammerud — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 22:41:39 GMT

I am a 60 year old man with arthritis, but I would punch Santelli in the mouth if he came into my living room right now. At a time when we finally have a President willing to stand tall and take action to help us out of this mess, Santelli yells senseless invectives, allusions to Castro in Cuba. I am so mad at the Wall Street elite right now. Doesn't he realize how close we may be getting to civil unrest. The "let them eat cake" attitude got the guillotine for Marie Antoinette. What might be in store for Santelli if the common folk decide they have had enough of him and his Wall Street bullies?

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

John B., Houston, Texas — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 22:43:39 GMT

Way to go Rick! Finally someone has said on national T.V. what needs to be said. I have lived within my means, and my home mortgage is almost paid off.

Where is the fairness of using the taxes I must pay the federal government to pay down, pay off or subsidize the mortgages of those who lied about their net worth and/or monthly income to obtain loans they could not afford to service or repay so they could use the money borrowed to buy a house for a price which was beyond their financial means? Is the federal government going to prosecute such borrowers for defrauding F.D.I.C. insured institutions or for defrauding other lenders? If not, why not? The answer seems obvious: they support Obama and Democrats.

In my opinion, Obama's just announced housing plan does more than reward bad behavior, it rewards fraudulent behavior. Further, such plan can also be viewed as the first step toward new federal entitlements: housing and affordable financing provided by federal taxes imposed on our responsible and productive citizens.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Carl Gardner, Richmond, Ks. — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 22:49:08 GMT

Rick Santelli is the man, take us up a level. I am ready for the next tea party instead of the BS out of Washington! GO Santelli!! Obviously not one of the drive by media.............I will listen to him from now on!

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Dave, Aurora, Colorado — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 22:50:15 GMT

You are totally awesome, Mr. Rick Santelli!!!! Great job speaking up and trying to show what people REALLY want. Our representatives are supposed to be speaking for US and what WE want. Maybe Obama and his pals will get a clue if enough people speak up. Nobody has ever successfully spent their way out of debt to prosperity.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Jim Campbell, Mesa, Arizona — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 22:51:45 GMT

Amen!!!! about time we here someone in the media speak like an American for Americans. P.S I live in Mesa Arizona and do not support Obama's mortage crap and bailout plan.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Sol Wordlaw, Charlotte, NC — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 22:52:00 GMT

The sad thing is Santelli's ignorance. He simply doesn't understand the proposal.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

RR Denver co — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 22:54:22 GMT

only 1 in 25,000 homes in the entire state of Nebraska are in foreclosure.

Live with the boom die with the boom its your responsibility. My wife and i have each had up to 2 jobs each when times were tight. never missed a payment. to Jamie in Seattle if you owned your home for 32 years why is it not paid off? maximum term loans are 30 years. I bet you cashed out on a refinance bought some new dirt equipment and used your home as your ATM.

why should I pay taxes to pay your loan?

Finally, this is another bail out of wallstreet also. who ownes and trades CDO or CMO's wall street.
who backs the loans Fannie and Freddie. who controlls Fannie and Freddie the US GOV.

Think of it this way. as the backer of over 70% of the home loans outstanding, fannie and freddie, are broke so through their parent (the Government) they amend all the loan terms of the people that pay, charge them more money to make up on what they are losing from peoplet that can not pay their bills.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

David M. Riverside, California — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 22:55:42 GMT

Right ON! Rick Santelli. Thanks for speaking out. I am sick of all the BS being passed around. I have worked saved and paid all my debts on time and I am sick and tired of bailing out the irresponsible.
Please set up a web site for contributions, I am with ya.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Jane , Memphis — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 22:58:00 GMT

I agree! Listen folks I only make $35000 a year and I pay my bills---almost totally debt free. i DONT have a new card, i dont go out all the time. i dont wear fancy shoes but i do live a complete life and do not want!!! its called priorities....Why can some people here in memphis afford escalades with rims but yet they live in a run down house? They have a 60000 car but cant afford health insurance!

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Alan Lockett, Austin, TX — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 23:00:14 GMT

I see two main categories of comments. One category adopts an ad hominem tack and labels Santelli a hypocrite simply because he is a trader. These people are evidently too ignorant to realize that the Santelli works at the CME - Chicago Mercantile Exchange - not on Wall Street. They claim that Santelli is a hypocrite because of Bush's bank bailout, but Santelli can't have received TARP money, because he doesn't work for a bank. It wasn't even his industry that was bailed out; that was the financial industry, not the commodities market. And they should also note that each bailout has driven the stock market predictably lower and lower. Finally, they assume that Santelli is a hypocrite on the sole basis that he is a commodities trader, without bothering to document his prior positions. I'd be willing to bet he didn't support the original bank bailouts. I assume that this category of people adopt this petulant, offended attitude because they can't wait to get their hands on our hard-earned money. A thief by any other name is still a thief, even if the law sanctions his robbery.

The second category of people sound like normal people, who are and should be upset when our ability to save up for hard times is compromised by an invasive nanny state that demands our freedoms from us all in the name of taking care of us. This isn't the America I was born into, and so help me God it will not be the America I die in.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

JLB , DENVER, COLORADO — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 23:02:30 GMT

Rich, You are right on, many of us, in this country (USA) are responsible taxpayers, and have been all our lives. WE WILL NOT BAILOUT THOSE THAT ARE NOT RESPONSIBLE !!!! They or OBAMA never made my payments.... Thank You, Keep telling the TRUTH...

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Raul Duke, Nevada desert — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 23:04:27 GMT

Rick Santelli and Ron Paul for President and VP... post-revolution.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

David, Virginia — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 23:05:12 GMT

Rick Santelli is just mad because he isn't getting a tax cut. He had his way for 8 years under Bush. Now, he has to sleep in the bed he helped to create.

I believe Obama said EVERYBODY will be able to refinance their home for a better mortgage rate and a payable monthly payment.

I got a plan for Rick Santelli. WHY DO WE NEED TRADERS?!?!? Why not just make all the markets run electronically, like the NASDAQ?!? That way, investors and companies will save billions of dollars spending on overpaid unnecessary jobs!!!

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Charlie, Dallas, TX — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 23:08:48 GMT

Couldn't agree more with everything Rick Santelli says. We have become a nation of self entitled whiners. Yes some people will lose a home due to unfortunate circumstances. This has always happened and will continue to happen. We have more than enough safety nets for these people, albeit they may loose their nice car and plasma TV, but they will always have food and some form of shelter.

The majority of people who got in trouble did it because of pure greed. They thought they were smarter (savvy, sophisticated, etc.)and were going to use a house as an investment vehicle. The fools need to be taught a painful lesson.
The only people suffering now are the responsible adults who saved and can now get no return on their savings because we have to lower interest rates to zero for these savvy morons.
As for the banks, heck yea they deserve to go down in flames, but it looks like Obama is just a continuation of Bush when it comes to throwing trillions into to system.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Chris, Maryland — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 23:10:01 GMT

What Santelli understands, and many of the posters here obviously don't, is that this bailout is merely repeating the cycle that got us into this mess in the first place. ACORN, with Obama often leading the charge, forced banks to give subprime mortgages to those who clearly couldn't afford it--100% financing??? WTF?? Now Obama is forcing US TAXPAYERS to prop up those same mortgages again--along with the ones that fell like dominoes as a result of the subprime mess. How long do you supporters think this cycle can actually continue???

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Dan, Fairfax, VA — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 23:11:44 GMT

Mr. Santelli speaks for me, the average responsible Joe. His comments represent those of us that struggle to make ends meet and dont want a handout that will cripple our childrens' economic well being.

On the other hand, Mr Obama, Congress, and the liberal media do not represent the responsible hard working Americans that make this country strong; nor the ideas of our Founding Fathers that created this great nation (which one was a socialist?).

Our leadership doesnt pay its taxes and earns far more than the average Joe, and now those that overextended themselves are being rewarded while the rest of us and our children pay for it. Why should we??

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

kate, chicago, IL — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 23:11:47 GMT

Rick Santelli is right! I certainly do not want to subsidize someone's bad decisions (nor do I expect them to subsidize mine). Did you know that the people we are subsidizing will get to keep the profit when they later sell their house? They won't have to share that profit with me and you?? Rick was also against bailing out bad companies. By the way, the typical elderly person who has their home paid off and then loses his home because of raised taxes (we'll raise them to keep up with "programs") won't be bailed out. Lazy people, get off your bums now and work for a living! America does not want to support you any longer. Mr. Santelli, you gave me a tiny bit of pride to be from Chicago.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Laquisha, Jacksonville, FL — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 23:13:40 GMT

NO, Please give Obama a chance. My God Bush and the Republicans so screwed this country up and now when we finally have a President that Cares about people the ugly side of us comes out. Yes Rick we should care about our neighbors, Yes we should pay our neighbors mortgage and their child care and their food and water and their health care because if we don't it could backfire and come back and haunt us. If only you helped to feed your neighbor then maybe he would not have resorted to crime which hurt people. Thats whats wrong in this world too much ignorance and cowardice the new AG is more right then many here know.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Jessica, Santa Clarita, CA — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 23:14:56 GMT

Santelli is absolutely right! Why should those of us that our responsible with our finances help to bail out our irresponsible neighbors? Why should they be able to buy a house that they knowlingly can't afford and get bailed out by the tax payers when they can't make their monthly payments! BOOOOO!!!!

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Roscoe — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 23:20:33 GMT

Santelli is right! Why should we REWARD the lenders that started this mess and PAY the people that were so stupid and irresponible? It's in the best interest of the lenders to refinance and the best interest of the home owners to pay their mortgages! Why should I subsidize that? Let's start an impeachment of Obama....NOW!

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

jeff — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 23:20:44 GMT

As a TAX PAYER of Illlinois I nominate Rick Santelli for Senator to replace Roland Burris

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Nancy Howell — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 23:20:54 GMT

Rick Santelli is spot on, bad behavior should not be encouraged in any segment of the economy. Keep this guy on camera more often. Let's vote on it. How many people that voted for change really understood that this would happen????

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Kathy — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 23:22:55 GMT

I want the half of my portfolio that was lost in November. Do I qualify for a handout because I shouldn't have invested in the stock market? Was I coerced to sign up with a reputable investment company? No. No one held a gun to my head and no one held a gun to the head of the homeowners who sign the mortgage contract. The chips fell where the fell and while I feel for these people, I feel for my loss too.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

J Mon — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 23:23:07 GMT

Since I listened to FOX news during the presidential race, I was well informed of Obama's socialist policies and thus am not shocked regarding the administration's mortgage policy. However, Mr. Santelli deserves huge congratulations for going against MSNBC policy and speaking the truth about Obama's adminstration. He may have alone saved MSNBC. Job well done sir.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Amy, Shelbyville, Indiana — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 23:26:39 GMT

Does this Rick guy realize that you don't usually get a vote when your company starts laying off their workers? I wonder how many of these 'losers' stood in front of their supervisors and screamed "Pick me! Pick me! I don't want to pay my mortgage anymore! Pick me!!"
My first issue is that you are generalizing. You are lumping true hard working Americans, who are desperately trying to make ends meet, with the Americans who have no financial priorities. These are the people who take their May, June, July payments and go on vacation- BIG DIFFERENCE!!
I think the point alot of people are missing is that these people lost their homes. Their HOMES! Not the crazy expensive "status" enhancing sports car or one of the families yachts. They lost their homes, the place they are raising their children.
I don't support the bailout, but I certainly don't support the tea party!!

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Bob — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 23:28:06 GMT

Mr. Santelli does speak for the average citizen. I'm the average "joe" and I pay my bills and don't speculate on house prices escalating so that I can spin that into something else that I can't afford. The lenders and those idiots that purchased homes they couldn't afford..... Just for grins, let's take the hit at $9.7 TRILLION and work our way out of this. Our current stragey is trying to fill the Grand Canyon, $1.00 at a time. Impeach Obama!

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Terry, San Diego, CA — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 23:34:30 GMT

Obama's socialist housing program rewards bad behavior. We need to put some adults in Washington.
We agree with Rick Santelli! We support your Chicago Tea Party! We don't want to reward criminals and punish honest, hard working people. Maybe we should all stop paying our mortgage.
RICH SANTELLI FOR PRESIDENT!

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Bonnie, San Diego, CA — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 23:39:20 GMT

We support Rick Santelli!!
Maybe the silent majority will wake up, speak out, and vote next time.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Matthew, Houston, TX — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 23:40:12 GMT

Right On RICK!
This country needs a lesson in responsibility! Yes, Wall Street's greed caused them to give you irresponsible people loans that you couldn't afford. But YOU are the people that couldn't afford your lifestyle in a recession. So who is really to blame - the wall street bankers for trusting you, or is it you, the people that bought houses you couldn't afford, and outlived your means, and never even once thought to save for the hard times that are now upon us. I would say both groups deserve to lose everything - but oh, wait, the Obama administrations says its our fault - the responsible people that saved and stayed within our living means.
Awesome - maybe I should stop paying my mortgage, too, and get fired so I can get my fair share of handouts. Hey maybe my next job I can build cars that no one wants and get even more money from the government!

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

mary michigan — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 23:57:14 GMT

Why the tear-up of the new plans. SANTELLI; deregulation appears to have a big hand in this mess

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

mary michigan — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 23:57:15 GMT

Why the tear-up of the new plans. SANTELLI; deregulation appears to have a big hand in this mess

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Worried about the bailout, Stuart, FL — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 23:57:33 GMT

I live in Florida, where some foreclosures are on second homes. Why should I bail those people out? If I can't pay my mortgage, I can't have a house. Where in the Bill of Rights does it say that I am entitled to own a house that someone else pays for?

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Onlyone, San Francisco, California — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 23:58:52 GMT

Way to go Rick. You speak for the common middle class worker who is paying their bills. I work hard for what I have and would like to keep it. My tea is ready!

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Ronda Finkelstein, Ft. Lauderdale, Fl — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 00:05:15 GMT

Way to go Rick-FINALLY someone has the courage to speak up..is no one listening. Can someone stop this president from spreading dollars freely around=Rick keep raising your voice-we are listening.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Politically Savvy California — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 00:06:17 GMT

No, Santelli, you are not Jim Cramer so quit with the screaming and audition to replace him. Congratulations! your rant got your You Tube time and probably a few high fives from the employed commodity traders sitting behind you whom we have already bailed out once with TARP. My friend you are a Wall Street guy, and we already took care of your pals. Your rant appeals to the lowest denominator in the TV culture; it is based on half truths and a partial understanding of the proposal.I suggest people read the proposal more closely than Santelli's inaccurate, rabble rousing Cliff Note version.At a time like this, we need rational, clear thinking and not demagoguery playing to the cameras for a few minutes of fame.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Ronda Finkelstein, Ft. Lauderdale, Fl — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 00:07:31 GMT

Rick, I will have tea anytime-way to go

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

F&N — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 00:13:35 GMT

Mr. Santelli,
wow, you knocked it out of the ball park. Way to go.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

JJoe, Philadelphia, PA — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 00:14:27 GMT

Rick Santelli expresses the frustrations most Americans feel with this whole situation. Spot on. It is about time those who feel the same way unite to protest. I could care less about anyone who is losing their home. It is not my problem. I would rather live in a cave than bail you out.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

L Davis, Memphis, TN — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 00:14:38 GMT

I agree we need to help, perhaps by not paying our own mortgage. We have lost greatly in our home value, cut backs in hours at work, lost half of our hard earned 401K. We are sick of helping others out who never contemplated responsiblity.
Anarchy is to be one of the takers finally instead of the givers. This whole thing is about to implode despite all the bailout dollars, the real adgenda is still to be seen at all of our expense.
God Bless America!

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Nichole, Houston, TX — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 00:21:25 GMT

What is Ricks email address? I have to email a HUGE THANKS for voicing my thoughts! Keep it up!!!!

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Miki, Southampton, NJ — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 00:30:23 GMT

Kudos to Rick for speaking up for us Americans who are living within our means and struggling to pay our mortgages. I can't afford necessary repairs on my house, but I'm going to help pay for the homes of others who decided to live beyond their means to impress others.

Let's continue to dump on the working people who struggle to make ends meet, so we can support the bad behavior of those who want to live beyond their means. I'm sorry, but I'm tired of struggling and doing without to pay my bills; and now my tax money is going to help pay the mortgage of those who want to continue to impress their friends and neighbors by living beyond their means in little McMansions. What is wrong with this picture????

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Miki, Southampton, NJ — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 00:38:20 GMT

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

New Jersey — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 01:01:30 GMT

Exactly Rick.
The "Octomom" now reminds us of how the American tax payer is held hostage time and time again by the whims of irresponsible people like her....who RATIONALIZE that the rest of us should pay for WHATEVER SHE WANTS with the words "IT TAKES A VILLAGE"!

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

H. Yates, Charlotte, NC — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 01:08:21 GMT

Greed is when people step into the moment and think about nothing but the present. For those of you who still have faith in Obama, pray your children will forgive you.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

John Auburn AL — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 01:16:20 GMT

Rick Santelli ranted against TARP 1, TARP 2, stimulus, and any other bailout or handout. Before anyone calls Santelli a hypocrite, do a little research. Those are CHICAGO traders, not wall street traders. Those guys were NOT selling MBSs. Rick Santelli is NOT a fat-cat supporter by any means.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

serban — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 01:53:34 GMT

Couldn't have said it better Rick. As someone who came here from a former communist country, I see where this country is going and I have to tell you that it doesn't work. Obama will lead you there like sheep. Already 3 people in my office decided to do loan modifications. They can afford to pay, but modifications became quite the rage lately. Can't blame them. They could have been foolish like me to wait until prices come down to buy something that I can afford, but instead bought the mansion on negative amortization and now I have to subsidize their payment from my ratty apartment. The only thing I get from this stimulus is the opportunity to help my fellow american. What a shame

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Kristie-Williston, ND — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 02:03:36 GMT

Santelli for President! FINALLY somebody who will speak up for the real "middle class" those of us who do the unthinkable.....WE PAY OUR BILLS! We are tired of being punished for being responsible.

Somebody in the media is finally speaking out for US.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

John B., Houston, Texas — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 02:04:03 GMT

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Chris, Middleburg, Florida — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 02:09:07 GMT

It's frustrating to observe the willingness to give to those that are living above their means. I have served as an enlisted man in the military for 25 years, pay and mortgages and bills on time, drive '97 & '01 vehicles and live in a modest home with a mortgage that will be about half of my retainer income after my transfer to the Fleet Reserve. Every time I speak with my financial planner, they suggest I "negotiate" my credit card balance down, ie get rewarded for making purchases and not having to pay for them. I refuse each time. Why do I do these things? Because it's the responsible thing to do. I am forced to move every three years and purchased a home that has dropped 25% in the last year. I could have purchased a home WAY over my head with a creative mortgage and be living in a much more affluent area. Help those that help themselves and bear the burden of the bailouts. Don't reward irresponsibility!

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Keith Dumm, Stanwood Washington — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 02:17:31 GMT

Your performance was fantastic, keep it up until the rest of the US gets the message!

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Kevin, Novato, CA — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 02:20:21 GMT

Rick Santeli speaks for me and I'm a long time Democrat. You idiot Democrat posters who compare him to Limbaugh or Bush need to get a life. Hell, I wouldn't be surprised if Rick Santeli isn't a Democrat himself. Government should have no business in trying to prop up housing prices through these ill conceived bail-out plans. Let housing prices fall. Contrary to the BS on the MSM, the real housing crisis was from 1998 to 2007. What's going on now is a correction to the real housing crisis. Houses remain too damn expensive for the average American consumer. It's really pretty simple. Let housing prices fall back to where they should be, historically, based on wages and let those price resets take all those bad banks and bad mortgages with them. It was all fraud, greed and BS to begin with. All of it.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Omida — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 02:22:02 GMT

I have voted for Obama and I believe he is a decent good President after 8 years of having Jokers in the White House and the Washington. BUT I AM MAD AS H... SEEING IRRESPONSIBILITY IS REWARDED.I could have bought a bigger house, but I didn't because I knew it will be hard and risky when the tide turns and the fake market collapses. Now right and left we are throwing money at banks and at people who well knew that if the market changes they have no way but down. DO NOT REWARD IRRESPONSIBILITY. SANTELLI FOR PRESIDENT!

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Pat, Cocoa Beach, FL — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 02:24:05 GMT

Santelli makes how much money? He's running his mouth in the same room with the guys who had oil at $145 a barrel making a fortune off the middle class. Can't believe a word that come out of his mouth. Self serving idiot!

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Todd Chicago, IL — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 02:26:22 GMT

So what if the value of my house goes down for a few more years!!! Once supply get back in line with demand, prices will rise. Stop treating your house like income, buy it & stay in it!!!!
Go Rick Go

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Petros Moonachie NJ — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 02:30:15 GMT

Way to go Rick, finally someone has the balls to speak out " Like my father used to say if you don't have the money don't drink the wine" I didn't have the money or connections to have a mortgage. "GOD BLESS AMERICA" Get rid of the free loaders like the leberals "DAMAGED GOODS" Not good for AMERICA.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

George Zeller — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 02:40:30 GMT

Good Morning,
I have listened for months to our congress folks ask numerous questions about the residential mortgage bailout problem from the Chairman of the Federal Reserve, the Secretary of the Treasury past and present; head of the SEC, etc.; I have never heard any answers that speak directly to a method of solving the residential problem other than a blanket approach or giving the courts the authority to change legal binding contracts (which in my opinion is about as wrong as wrong can be).

My proposal requires the responsibility of the borrower; a contract is legal and is binding! If the court has power to change a simple mortgage contract; then why would anyone domestic or foreign have trust in a contract written under the laws of the USA. Courts have their place, to enforce the terms of the contract, not change the terms of the contracts. Keep the courts out of this problem, other than straight bankruptcy.

RESIDENTIAL MORTGAGE BAILOUT PROBLEM--
BORROWER MUST BE HELD ACCOUNTABLE!
Regarding the USA national residential mortgage problem currently being attempted to be resolved at the expense of the lender and our government, both for the delinquent and the current mortgage borrower: As a retired banker the following could be a partial solution to the mortgage problem; It seems to me it would make a lot more sense for the Bank to re-appraise the property, then set the mortgage payments on the reappraised value, however the deficit remaining balance of the original mortgage should be made part of the note and mortgage; the deficit amount should be carried interest free until the property is sold or the title is changed. Should the owner decide at some time in the future to sell their home when the economy has improved and the value has increased, the deferred (or deficit) principal portion of the mortgage becomes part of the payoff; thereby eliminating the party who received assistance to be able to profit at the expense of the lender and the government. In this manner the borrower would be held accountable for their decisions.

In turn the Lender would sell this deferred (deficit) amount and assign the note and 2nd mortgage for the deferred amount to the government. This would create the potential for repayment to the government when the property is sold; and thereby the borrower would be accountable.

At the time of the refinance of the 1st mortgage, the delinquent borrower is given the opportunity to defer $50,000. by signing a note, secured with a 2nd mortgage to be held by the government, the borrower should be required to sign a Forbearance Agreement which will outline to the borrower that if he becomes delinquent 90 days, he waives all rights to protection of normal foreclosure proceedings.

It only seems fair that all borrowers are rewarded and held accountable equally. Bare in mind the borrower who put a substantial amount down when purchasing the home, perhaps 50%, only to find the value of the home drop 50% and they potentially receive little benefit from the sale of the property after the recovery of the real estate market.

Without such a provision the individual who has little or nothing invested in the property comes out the winner; pocketing the profit at the expense of the lender and the government.

George Zeller
2170 Americus Blvd. S. #25
Clearwater, FL 33763
727-726-2996
gkzeller@tampabay.rr.com

The following further defines the issue:

Using the bankruptcy court, the mortgage debt is reduced to the current appraised value and discards the balance and the debtor then is only responsible for the newly assigned mortgage debt. The court discards a legal and binding contract with the stroke of a Judge's pen. The debtor is free to sell the property some time down the road and actually realize a profit at the expense of the government (you and me).

The following example will make my point; let me set the scene.
Let's say you and your wife purchased a house in an excellent neighbor hood and great location 3 years ago paid $100,000. put $50,000. down, obtained a 25 year mortgage, with interest rate of 8% and you have paid your payments promptly. It is now 3 years later, your now 54 years old, with two kids in college, and a sick wife, you were laid off 6 months ago from your 25 year job and have lost all of your benefits, including retirement benefits and health insurance; your IRA and other investments have declined approximately 60-70%, your home value has decline 50%, and it is now worth approximately $50,000. with a very slow real estate market; your cash reserves have been for the most part depleted, while you have maintained your prompt payments of your mortgage. The principal balance on your mortgage is $45,000. and you are in danger of going delinquent on your mortgage payments and foreclosure maybe close at hand. You approach your bank and they can only offer you a refinance of $45,000. balance at a 4.50% interest rate; you press them and they increase the amount to a $50,000 mortgage, waive the cost of a refinance and you receive $5000.

Now your neighbor, a nice guy who at the same time purchased a similar house two houses away 3 years ago also paid $100,000. Put $-0-. Down, obtained some favorable type interest rate mortgage, and has paid his payments promptly. It is now 3 years later, he is also 54 years old, has been laid off 6 months ago from his 25 year job and has lost all of his benefits, including retirement benefits and health insurance; his IRA and other investments have declined approximately 60-70%, his home value has also decline 50% and it is now worth approximately $50,000. with a very slow real estate market; and now his cash reserves have been for the most part depleted, while until recently he had maintained prompt payments on the mortgage. The principal balance on his mortgage is $99,000. and now he is three months going on four months delinquent on the mortgage payments and foreclosure is near at hand.

Under the court scenario a bankruptcy judge, rewrites the neighbor's mortgage with a new balance of $50,000. and remaining balance owing the lender $49,000. is discarded.

It is now three years later, the real estate market improves significantly, and your neighbor with nothing invested was able to sell his property for $103,000. and he was able to walk away and made $53,000. profit on the transaction while investing $-0-. while the bank lost $50,000. on the transaction. How did the Government make out (you and me the citizen)???

At the same time the responsible conservative borrower that invested $50,000. when he purchased the property, while the neighbor invested nothing; also sold his property for $103,000. and he made a profit of $3,000.

Was the responsible conservative borrower treated fairly compared to his neighbor, he made a profit of $3,000. but lost the opportunity to have earned income on the $50,000. over the 6 years because he invested the $50,000. as a down payment on the property?

My proposal requires the responsibility of the borrower; a contract is legal and is binding! If the court has power to change a simple mortgage contract; then why would anyone domestic or foreign have trust in a contract written under the laws of the USA? Courts have their place, to enforce the terms of a properly executed contract, not change the terms of the contract. Keep the courts out of this problem, other than for straight bankruptcy.

I am all for helping someone when they are in trouble at no fault of their own, Yes;
But give them the farm at my expense and my children's expense NO WAY!

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Clyde Sarasota, FL — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 02:52:00 GMT

How does it feel to become a new "shrill" voice of the right. Maybe this isn't what you had in mind but now there you are. I wonder if you have any friends who are hurting because of economic misfortune? Probably not because by now they are probably wondering "what is his problem?" I never liked CNBC and now myself and others know why.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

DOUGLAS R ZOOK — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 03:03:22 GMT

IN AUGUST 2006 I PURCHASED A HOME IN HENDERSON NEVADA. THE SELLER (LENNAR) WANTED NOTHING DOWN,INSISTED ON AN INTEREST ONLY LOAN AND PAID THE CLOSING COSTS.I BOUGHT A HOUSE FOR $320,000.00, BUT PAYED OFF THE LOAN IN 6 MONTHS. SEVERAL WEEKS AGO AN EXACT SAME HOUSE SOLD FOR $206,000.00. WHY SHOULD I LOSS $114,000.00 WHILE OTHERS IN THE SAME DEVELOPMENT WHO INVESTED NOTHING BE GIVEN FEDERAL DOLLARS TO CONTINUE LIVING IN A HOME AS A REWARD FOR THEIR GREED AND POOR JUDGEMENT.
THE ARGUMENT IS PRICES WILL RECOVER. SHOULD THAT HAPPEN WHO WILL ONCE AGAIN BE THE WINNER?
RICK SANTELLI IS 100% CORRECT!
I SAY GIVE ALL OR GIVE NONE

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Lee VanCamp, Dallas, Texas — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 03:05:28 GMT

Rick,

I applaud your passion for free markets. Hang in there.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Citizen — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 03:08:58 GMT

Thank you Rick! I'm sick of so many people blaming someone else for their problems. Many people were too greedy or too dumb to understand that they couldn't afford Home X. Newsflash: NO ONE is entitled to home ownership! I am sick and tired of the lack of personal responsibility in America today. Those of us who bought homes we could afford and pay our bills on time have no sympathy for you.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Kat, Orlando, FL — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 03:09:01 GMT

I love how everyone who opposes the government bailouts has absolutely nothing to offer as an alternative. Oh what, more tax cuts for the rich?? Yeah that really seemed to work. Hey Rick - what do you propose to do? Let the market just work itself out? "Pull yourself up by your bootstraps?" We tried that philosophy and it failed. We had 8 years of legislation that allowed the richest to profit. That legislation failed and now the new congress and president have the responsiblity to fix the problems the government caused in the last decade. Where was Rick Santelli when the Bush tax cuts were being signed into law? Eating them up I'm sure because it probably helped him - while the rest of the country worked longer hours, paid more for their homes and food, and earned the same salaries! This problem will continue to permeate our economy unless someone does something and Rick Santelli certainly doesn't have an answer.

And for all of you who think any hardworking person could not actually be for this bailout. I work over 50 hours a week and know plenty of people who did too - UNTIL THEY WERE LAID OFF!

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Omida — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 03:09:53 GMT

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Gerrit, Puyallup, WA — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 03:16:04 GMT

There are only two responses on this board: 1) Santelli is right, or 2) Santelli is a jerk. I note no one can rationally argue that Santelli is wrong, so they simply call him names. Boys in girls, if you got a decent education, you would recognize that fallacy as a classic ad hominem attack...

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Gerrit, Puyallup, WA — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 03:20:26 GMT

Santelli isn't speaking for Wall St. (he's in Chicago), and he's not speaking for the rich or upper class. he's speaking for the 92% of homeowners who to this day are not in default on their mortgages. Hard working, forward-thinking Americans that made an honest budget and to this day put their mortgage payments ahead of their internet subscription, cell phone bills, and Starbucks lattes.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Richard Weingarten — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 03:25:56 GMT

Even during good times people lose jobs. Very often
this will lead to them losing their houses. When this happens they either move into a less expensive apartment or--when possible--move in with a family
member. Most survive without the government paying
part of their mortgage.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Kathleen Black, South Bend, IN — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 03:46:04 GMT

Where do I sign up for the Chicago tea party? I'm serious!

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

sadie, ww washington — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 04:00:59 GMT

Let the Chicago Tea Party begin!

First step, all of the responsible Americans out there who pay their mortgages on time, let us take our little payment slips and send them to President Obama and tell him to please pay the March payment. Don't you think that would send a LOUD message that we are not happy that the government is rewarding BAD behavior??? What would happen to this country if those of us that play by the rules said NO MORE! Ladies and gentlemen, we have to speak out NOW before it is too late. Here is the White House address and phone number:
1600 Pennsylvania Ave NWWashington, D.C. 20500

202 456 1111 Comments
202 456 1414 Switchboard

Let the revolution begin!

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Jan Rochester, NY — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 04:32:16 GMT

Rick Santelli had the brains and courage to tell the brutal truth about the Obama Team. Barack Obama has really pulled off the ultimate sham against the American people. Obama even lied about his grandmother dying on November 4 (election day) so he would get the sympathy from you losers. He has played you and now look what is happening to our country.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Kevin Sanders, Eugene, OR — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 04:42:15 GMT

Rick, I will drive from the West Coast to the Chicago Tea Party. If people can't pay their mortgage they should have rent in the first place like me. Let the revolution begin.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Cary Adler, SLO, CA — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 04:42:32 GMT

Good for you Mr. Santelli!
I agree with your comments. If my home loses value because my neighbor's home is in foreclosure, that's a market risk that I take as an owner. I can't expect the government to rescue me if I bought more house than I could afford or I used my house as an ATM machine.

As parents, we are taught to let our children fail and learn from their mistakes. Otherwise, they won't learn the consequences of their actions. If we rescue our children, we deprive them of the lesson.

We need to take our medicine. That doesn't mean we rescue irresponsible homeowners. Any attempts to prop up housing will only forestall the inevitable. Bailout packages will not defeat Mother Nature and Father Time.

For the sake of our children, and their children, we need to let the markets clear. The last thing we need to do is prop up housing. If that means my house goes down in value, so be it. That's a good thing for my children and future generations.

Sure, it's painful. But prices need to reconcile. It's time to return to reality, consume less, live within our means, and stop keeping up with the Jones. Less is more!!

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

HateTheFear — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 04:54:39 GMT

"To take from one, because it is thought his own industry and that of his fathers has acquired too much, in order to spare to others, who, or whose fathers, have not exercised equal industry and skill, is to violate arbitrarily the first principle of association, the guarantee to everyone the free exercise of his industry and the fruits acquired by it.” — Thomas Jefferson April 6, 1816

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

DB — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 05:03:24 GMT

Why should my dollars be taken from me and given to someone else? I rent, what did I do wrong? BTW Santelli WAS arguing against TARP/bailout etc. If anyone of you naysayers even bothered to check that out first perhaps your "rant" would have some validity on the hipocracy charge. His soicioeconomic background is irrelevant to the issue of government deciding to give to a select group of individuals.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Mary, Chicago — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 05:15:00 GMT

Way to go, Rick! Thank you so much!!

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

cat, Dallas, Texas — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 05:20:19 GMT

I didn't vote for Obama! But lots of illegal Acorn voters did! KUDOS TO RICK!

"Mr. Santelli needs to remember that "We the People" voted for Obama for a reason. In fact, every single person - Republican or otherwise - could stand to remember that. I don't know why it is so easy for them to forget, but hopefully they will catch up soon.
LaRae, Seattle (Sent Thursday, February 19, 2009 4:54 PM)

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

jimo — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 05:21:05 GMT

MI just googled santelli and he fits neatly into the category of those who created the problems this country are currently in. when are we going to throw these idiots to the wind and get back to rational, intellectual discussions as oppossed to the hysteria of those who caused the problems

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Jim A, Culver City, CA — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 05:22:58 GMT

Amen to that!!! I am a middle class individual who didn't get into a mortgage that I couldn't afford. I have no sympathy for others who did. Everyone knows they are taking a risk when purchasing property - if they made a profit we do not share in that so why do we have to share in their losses? Time for people to take responsibility for their choices...we all learn that as kids.

No one is helping me pay my rent...I have to work hard every day to pay that. If they would just let the market play itself out then all the damn greedy people who bought property when they couldn't afford it. Now the government wants to reward these people? Doesn't make any sense. Now they want to hold the market up when I am ready to buy...ridiculous!!

Let America vote on this bailout!!

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Asa Zanetti — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 05:32:49 GMT

Rick is a voice in the wilderness! Thank you Rick! It will not be a president, senator, or any other elected official that chages this country, the people have that charge, and Rick represents most of us.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Asa Zanetti — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 05:33:50 GMT

Rick is a voice in the wilderness! Thank you Rick! It will not be a president, senator, or any other elected official that changes this country, the people have that charge, and Rick represents most of us.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

John Scher — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 05:41:25 GMT

The rantings of people like Rick Santelli and others in the media is part of our problem. All these people want to do is call attention to themselves. All this ranting does does is incite the worst in people instead of them suggesting viable alternatives themselves. We are in this mess together and there are many guilty as well as many innocent parties. President Obama has asked people to contact him if they have suggestions at Change.gov. President Obama and his administration may not have a perfect solution to a very complex problem. There probably is none but at least he is calm, reasonable, and has ideas to at least start the ball rolling to recovery. There is way too much negativism and criticism by those in the media who have few ideas of their own. All they can do is criticize. We will have to learn by doing. It's going to take everyone's support, meaningful input, thoughtful and creative ideas and PATIENCE to help solve our problems. Santelli needs to take a Prozak.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Jon Thomas, Portland, OR — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 06:01:25 GMT

A sorry, sorry performance. The greedheads of Wall Street along with their pathetic LOSER bank CEO's better pray to the Chistian, Jewish, Muslim one God and any other gods they can think of to keep the peasants from descending on Wall Street and the New York banks with their torches and pitchforks.

It's almost unbelievable that the very same people that created this disaster, Wall Street and the financial community, would spread this bilge from Santelli. Who the hell created this financial disaster? Answer: The idiots of Wall Street and the financial community. Yeah, you guys know the defintion of "LOSER!!!!" Individually and collectively, that title fits you guys to a tee!!!!

Jesus Christ!!!!&&!!!$@%*!!%*!*$$$$$$....

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

nick, san francisco, ca — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 06:37:47 GMT

the government, wall st, and main st right now are all in it together. if wall st did not take excess risks by packing these loans 10000x times we will not be in the situation in the first place. agreed that everyone needs to be responsible and own up to what they sign up to but we are picking the lessor of two evils here. one is to let banks and housing to continue to collapse into a death spiral and wipe everyone out or two we the people/government help stabilize the market so everyone does not lose all they have. i say everyone because a foreclosure in your neighbor affects the values of surrounding homes. so the best option (not the most moralistic one) is to support banks, asset values, and the housing market.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Trenton, Soldotna, Alaska — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 07:02:46 GMT

Finally someone with some common sense! Rick Santelli is my HERO! CNBC, give him a RAISE PLEASE!!!!

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Renee, Stockton, CA — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 08:02:54 GMT

Rick Santelli is my new hero!!!!! BRAVO!!!! Thank you for having the courage to speak for all Americans coast to coast. The majority of us (myself included)
are not rich, just working to make a living, and are horrified at the direction that this great country of ours is headed. Save me a place at the tea party!!!

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

CT — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 09:29:09 GMT

My neighbor has a mortgage payment of "x" amount. I have a rental payment of "the same" amount. My neighbor has financial difficulties and gets a 'hand out' so as not to lose HIS frikkin' home. I have the same financial difficulties, and I lose my 'home' and have to move somewhere smaller. This is totally and completely UNFAIR!!!

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Jill Wong, Modesto, Ca — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 10:25:42 GMT

This is one honest, play by the rules homeowner whose had enough...I'm gonna buy and bail and have no quams about it! Job relo forced us to buy at peak, put our 20% down, house is worth 150,000 less than the mortgage but the bank won't even talk to us about a modification. Why? not a great business decision I guess....not profitable. Well I say, this "investment" (the house we bought) is not profitable anymore either so you can have it back! I'll cut my losses, buy the house down the street for half the price. Because I did the right thing, paid my bills, saved my money, lived within my means. it's time to reward myself (since noone else will) and take advantage of the loophole that's out there for people in non-recourse states who did the right thing.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Zachary Caress, Bloomington, Ind. — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 11:31:17 GMT

Rick was right on target. Not only is it unwise for the government to fund poor private decisions, it's also unconstitutional. The federal government has no right to delve into the private sphere, especially with money that we don't have. Count me in for the Chicago Tea Party.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Denise - Lancaster, PA — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 12:08:39 GMT

What does this bail out do for those of us that have been responsible and have paid off our mortgage? We thought we would benefit and have extra cash - now it will go to higher taxes to bail out a bunch of irresponsible people!

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Lee L:ajoie Woonsocket RI — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 12:12:47 GMT

This guy that is ranting about the housing bill is nothing but a big mouth. He is among the crooked people on wall street. They took our money and did not spout off about haveing us vote on it.I would love to stuff abig ball of cotton in his mouth. Rick Santilli SHUT UP!!!

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Piero, Leonardtown , MD — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 12:14:13 GMT

Rather than bailling out people how can't pay the mortgage and lets do something about energy cost. Reduce them and most people could afford to live in their homes.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Kate, Michigan — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 12:15:13 GMT

Way to be unbiased, Matt. Rick Santelli is right. We know how you voted and what you believe. As a journalist...we should not know your views.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Tracy Wolfe — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 12:16:53 GMT

Where was Mr. Santelli when Wall Street got bailed out? Was he screaming unfair then? It was the experts on Wall Street that got us in this mess. They have no credibility! The era of every man for himself is over.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Josephine, Williamsburg, VA — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 12:17:02 GMT

Reduce everyone's mortgage rate by 2% -- without having to pay to refinance -- and there will be an immediate positive impact. Those of us who are paying our bills will get relief as well; we will have more money to be spent to stimulate the economy; there will be no bureaucratic administrative costs; there will be no need to drop the principal amounts of the loans; the banks -- who contributed to this mess with the loans that they granted -- will 'lose' interest, but no more than they would if we all refinanced at the lower rates; and we would at least all feel that all taxpayers were getting some relief. It would be an easy and fair true stimulus. No checks to send.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Roger Miller, Huntington WV — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 12:17:18 GMT

Friday Morning, The Today Show Staff ganed up against Rick Santelli. Mr. Santelli stood toe to toe against the two hosts of the Today Show and their guest. Mr. Santelli is telling it "so much" like it is that it took Three, Yes Three (3) seasoned, informed (??) professional talkers to attempt to discredit him and attempt to stop his message from getting across. This is the beginning of the Abomination that is coming.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

new york, new york — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 12:18:16 GMT

Hey to everyone here on this post who is so "angered" by this, guess what EVERYONE is a minute away from foreclosure. You're no different. 3 years ago i bought my dream house. I had a very secure job that paid my bills. my mortgage was a comfortable 30 yr fixed with a low interest rate. everything was based on my JOB. well guess what, i lost my job, my husband has lost his job and we're now trying to sell our house. We didn't take a risky mortgage, we never anticipated being out of work so long. even with being on unemployment our mortgage payments have NEVER been late despite having no income because we were smart and saved for a rainy day. guess what, that fund is almost empty and we need help. are we the pieces of garbage you all talk about??? wake up, you're all potentially in my shoes.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Fran Petit. Mooresville, N.C. — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 12:18:52 GMT

Why are people not held accountable for their own actions? I'm single, over 40 and make about $45,000. a year--so you can imagine my tax bracket. I can not afford to buy a house. Most of those people who now can not pay their mortgage expect me to pay for their house?

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Scott, Fort Myers, Florida — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 12:19:33 GMT

We are missing the point on this issue. Thsis is a supply and demand issue. I am in one of the hardest hit areas in Fort Myers, Florida. This time two years ago there were 2.5 people per housing unit and now that number is 1.3 people per unit. How can that be afforded? Let's use that stimulus money to tear down the delapidated structures which will create jobs, clean up neighborhoods, thin the inventory and increase demand by lowering supply. Gerater demand means higher rents which equates to greater home value and you are on track to recovery.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Stacie, Willimasburg, Va. — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 12:19:42 GMT

My husband and I purchased our home on an inflated appraisal thinking that we were also on a fixed rate at 8%. Although that was somewhat high, we could afford it. Not knowing or understanding that the rate would increase in 2 years, they did not discuss that part. Not many people read fine print of 30 documents.
We paid our payments on time up until that moment. Guess what... they are not reducing the principal that they financed at an inflated price. Homes are selling more than 10% less than we paid 3 years ago. It would be better for us to refinance but when your value is less than owed, there is no such thing. Should we suffer because of the large percentage of people were able to profit off of the inflated prices?? How many tax payers are complaining about that?
I PAY TAXES JUST LIKE EVERYONE ELSE!!! We are two full time working professionals, not looking for a bail out that everyone claims. Only looking to lower our rate to afford the payment.... less than 12%. After the value increases enough, we can refinance. If you were bailing me out than you would be making my payment.
Our mortgage company will not do this on their own!!!!
They are making a killing on these rates. Should they be allowed to collect so much interest? That is the real problem. We wanted to own a home. Had no idea that these products were so outrageous. They did not teach a class on obtaining a loan.
Some of us in this situation can afford a payment at a decent rate. HSBC, our mortgage company will not help. What else should we do? Forclosure? Would that not be worse than getting some relief?

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

JoAnn Hefner — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 12:20:07 GMT

Mr Sabatelli asked us if we wanted to pay for our neighbor's home. Of course he would get everyone outraged at this question. But do you realize that everytime you go to the hospital you pay for all those who don't have insurance?? Next time you go ask for your hospital bill and see how much you have paid for one aspirin. This goes much deeper that the housing issue that was caused years ago

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Judith Frederick — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 12:20:48 GMT

If someone actualy thought about it what they should do is take ALL mortgages for everyone,( as alot of us who are making those payments every month are struggling too) and cut them to 4.5%. This would put
money in everyone's pockets, it would help the economy and you just might see people wouldn't be an irate as they are about this whole matter. Give the
ones who aren't defaulting the chance to get out of the hole also.
Judy, Grayling, MI

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Barbara M-Browne — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 12:20:53 GMT

Where was all this righteous indignation when Wall Street received 10 times the amount that Main Street will get? e.g. $150B+ to JUST ONE compnay-- more than twice the $75 Obama is committing to help all Main Street homeowners.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Mitchell Urash, Charlotte, North Carolina — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 12:21:36 GMT

Rick Santelli is an elitist jerk. Where was his moral outrage when we were bailing out the banks who were in large measure responsible for our economic troubles and are so clueless they can't understand why awarding them with huge bonuses is reprehensible?
We should be calling for criminal and civil investigations against them, not turning our backs on the people who were caught up in the wash of their misdeeds. And, incidentally, there was a vote by the American people on this issue - it's called a national election - and the Republicans, and all those who place their faith in the altruism of those in the business world, lost. Now it's time for a new approach.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

JHruska, New York — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 12:21:43 GMT

Shame on Santelli and shame on NBC. This is the kind of negativity and shallow thinking that got us into this mess. We need to pull together as a country and support our President who is trying his hardest to get us out of the trouble that greedy Americans, greedy banks, and a nonfunctional Administration that only supported the well-to-do got us into. Shame on that Administration, shame on Santelli and shame on NBC. Stop trying to promote yourselves and DO SOMETHING CONSTRUCTIVE.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Brian, Oxford, Michigan — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 12:22:06 GMT

There needs to be a resounding NO on irresponsibility. I have been through times like this before and worked 3 jobs to make ends meet. I never have asked for a handout. Of the two people I know who went through foreclosures it was because of their spending habits - going out to eat, getting hair/nails done, buying designer this and that. One even bought a bigger more expensive house and then walked away from the one foreclosed. I pay my bills - I have cut back and am still cutting back to make ends meet. If someone shows a true need for help and have actually tried to make ends meet then the greedy bank that gave them the loan in the first place needs to bail them out.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Ken LoCoco, Galveston, Indiana — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 12:23:14 GMT

Rick Santelli you are now one of mine and my wife's favorite people. It's about time someone on one of the big 3 networks speaks out against what Obama is doing. So far none of the plans presented to the people are going to work because the plans don't put the people who lost jobs back to work. No work, no pay, no house payment. Unless the 3 to 4 million who lost their jobs in the past year get work things will continue. Housing values..... The people that are in trouble need their homes appraised. Whatever the value comes in at is the value the principle should be adjusted to. It might not be fair to everyone, but it's the only way those people will stay in their homes.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Betsy-Harrsburg, PA — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 12:23:28 GMT

Where was this guy when we spending millions of dollars bailing out large companies. Mr Bush didn't give us a choice. I agree, he represents the haves. I would rather give money to an average citizen, no matter what the reason, than to large corporations giving themselves million dollar paychecks. (And I pay my mortgage)

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

DEBBIE RIVERA CLEVELAND,TN — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 12:24:06 GMT

HEY WHY SHOULD PAY FOR SOMEONES HOUSE, WHEN I DONT OWN A HOME MY SELF,I LIVE ON DISABLTY 674 A MONTH,BARLY CAN BYE FOOD,PRESIDENT OBAMA WHY DONT YOU HELP PEOPLE ON DISABLTY GIVE US A BIG RISE ON CHECKS,AND HELP THE POOR PEOPLE IN THE COUNTRY,SO WE CAN LIVE BETTER,ITS NOT FAIR TO LEAVE US POOR FOLKS OUT AND HELP,CAR DEALER,AND BAIL OUT HOME OWNS THEY BOUGHT IT LET THEM PAY FOR IT,I WOULD HAVE TO PAY FOR MINE IF I HAD ONE,IT MAKE ME SAD EVERYDAY BECAUSE I DONT KNOW HOW I WILL LIVE IF THIS KEEPS UP.WAKE UP OBAMA HERE THE POOR FOLKS FOR A CHANGE.....TY

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

debbie, baltimore, md — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 12:24:11 GMT

I watched the today show this morning. my husband and i agree with mr. Santelli 100%. we bought a home 6 years ago. we are also struggling ,but we pay all our bills and asked for NO help.EVERYONE should receive a check it's only fair. as for the telecast the hosts of the show you were making rude comments to Santelli such as he was whailing on and on, dramatic and lack of caffiene , how disrespectful to him. He was just stated a point many Americans feel. GROW UP BOYS,and play nice!!!!!

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Dominic P., Winnabow, NC — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 12:24:31 GMT

Mr. Santelli is an idiot. He obviously doesn't have to worry about a paycheck. With all of the jobs being lost by average people like myself, alot of Americans are one step away from losing everything they have worked for. Fat Cats like Santelli don't have to worry. Give me a job like his where I can run my mouth without reprecussions and a fat check and I won't worry about others either.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Jim Cogdon, Oswego, New York — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 12:25:51 GMT

As an American who paid his morgage, even in the bad times, I'm upset. I bought a modest home as others bought homes that they could pay for at the time, but if any bad times hit they would be in trouble. Well here we are. Now they get to keep there house that they really could not afford from the start, and there interest rates and payment get lowered when my rate and payment stay the same. I did what was right and I have to pay for them? Lower everyone the same or none at all.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Sami Jasso Blanchard — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 12:27:06 GMT

Thank you for not falling into line with those that are looking for someone else to cover their butts. When they don't get you to agree with them then they will belittle and name call. Like theatrics, racists and then of course just curse. Way to go Rick! Just frustrate them more.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Maura Jenkins — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 12:27:07 GMT

I have strong feelings on this subject mainly because I agree with Mr. Santelli that sometimes I'D like a 'dover' or takeback too. I have addressed my concerns to my local political figures here in Mechanicsburg PA, to no avail. There's just no answer. WHY is the help only for the homeowners who find themselves struggling with mortgages because of job loss, economy crash, etc. What about the renter. I am a single mom of three. I had a house which I gave up in 2003 because after 10 years it was too much for me to keep up, but found an awesome place to rent in my town - an apartment big enough to be called a ranch home. But my landlord has a mortgage. And my rent has passed on 10% increases of my rent (which started out at %650 and is now &725 - most of that within the last 9 mos. - and can increase it 10% every six months I believe. I have no savings. I make a good living (self employed as an administrative/legal associate) - but have spent the last 14 years providing for my kids (now 24, 17 and 10). I pay my own benefits, and struggle LIKE EVERYONE ELSE. Because I don't own my home (of course - its decisions I made years ago...if I had been taught to be financially reseponsible out of high school, maybe I'd own a home securely now) - but because I don't own my home - my rent could continue to increase $50 a year. What does that mean for me at 47 if I am not blessed enough to remarry. At this point, if there's SS, it will be $1200 if I work until 70. How will I live paying a $1000 a month rent? Where's the help for me? Why does a homeowner who got themselves in over their heads and didn't read the fine print have more devestating problems and issues than me? I was out of work for the past four months for the first time in 33 years. I was SO lucky I'm in a small town and my landlord knew me that I'd somehow figure it out (and was probably terrifiied to get a new renter because I've been here 6 years - and he's having a hard time finding reliable renters) - but he's still a businessman. I could find MYSELF out on the street at any given time! Where is MY security. Is the government going to make sure if I am out on the street I have a place to go? No. Salvation Army helped me out with 2 months worth of rent, and I just had to keep praying for a job. I got one in January, and have been playing catch up ever since. No savings, no 401 K (but lots of love and peace in my house). My strenth and hope are in the Lord, but I still wonder - like Mr. Santelli - why are homeowners getting preference from the governement, when landlords are passing on their mortgage woes by way of rent increases to renters.....

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Chanda,Winston Salem,NC — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 12:27:17 GMT

I'm very disappointed in the overall reation to the President's decision> Santelli is promoting negativity, and isn't speaking for the average citizen. What happened to all of the cheers, yelling, and yelping when the president clearly stated before he was elected to call on the American citizens to band together to help each other out to make a better United States of America? Now that our president is actually putting his words into action, you want to get upset, where is the American spirit?

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Jack Black, Fort Lauderdale, Florida — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 12:27:49 GMT

Call him elitist if you want, but the responsible American people have about had enough. We are getting a little sick of having to carry the load for those of you that keep biting off more than you can chew. I don't care if your home is worth 1/3 of what you paid for it. You bought it to live in and could afford it when you bought it, or you shouldn't have bought it. I don't care if you're paying 3 times what your home is worth in mortgage payments. You bought it. You should have thought about all of this when you tried to buy something you didn't deserve. It is the prevailing "entitlement attitude" the losers have that created this mess, no one else. meveryone thinks they are entitled to what those ahead of them have. When I bought my home, I made sure that I had 6 months worth of mortgage payments in the bank in the event I lost my job, how about you losers? Of course not. Now you want the responsible people to bail you out. I think not. The real problem is those of you that bought "Investment properties" and now they are worthless. One better, you want to walk away or have the government subsidize the value of your home because you don't want to pay a mortgage that is 3 times the value of your home. Dumping it back on the bank is too easy. It isnt the banks, it's the people that want to pin it on the banks. DEAL WITH IT LOSERS!!!!

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Cheryl Lutz, Mohnton, PA — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 12:27:50 GMT

Rick Santelli, Thank You!
You have spoken well on my behalf this morning on the Today show.
My 401K was down 30% last year and another 10% YTD in 2009. I work hard for what I earn and I can no longer afford to just watch it waste away. I have now pulled the funds into a stable account.
I have tried to do the right thing and have lost. Those who thought that had a right or deserved something they couldn't afford are now being rewarded while I pay for their mistakes. If we're going to start bailing people out what about those of us who have lost our retirement funds.
Matt Lauer, I love you, but you are wrong. I have family directly affected by forclosure but it is bacause of her bad judgement and it is not up to me or the American public to bail her out. What ever happened to owning up to your mistakes?

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Jeff Glaser, Ashburn, VA — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 12:27:51 GMT

Bravo, but are you going far enough. I say the "ASSessment Boards" are also a major problem-One house goes belly up and the "ASSessment" idiots cut everyone's assessment to the lowest price paid for a distressed house. Arithmetic: 1 bad apple in the barrel destroys the barrel:

Before: 10 homes valued at $500000= $5Million in value

INSTANCE: 1 owner defaults: sell house for $300000

RESULT; 10 HOMES AT $300000 or Reduction in assessed value = $2MILLION New Base= $3 million

OUTCOME: the mess we're in.

Better outcome 9 homes @ $500000, 1@300000, but taxed at $500000...a distressed house purchased at basement price should reward buyer when he/she sells...not destroy a whole community. Get real, put the 92% of us who pay our bills first--if we stop paying the ecopnomy is totally screwed.

Keep assessment realistic not doom us to a never ending death spiral.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Judy Bush — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 12:28:04 GMT

I'm part of the 92% Santelli speaks of. Where is my bailout? Why reward bad behavior? I give at least 10% of my earnings to charitable organizations of my choosing so don't tell me I need to shoulder something I don't agree with and don't support.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Theresa Dayton, Ohio — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 12:29:01 GMT

Finally, someone really voices how most American's feel! It is about time we had a voice! People need to learn to take responsiblity for what they do. We just lost 3/8th's of our income and we do not want government handouts. The strange thing about this whole thing is that there is not one item in the stimulus package or the housing package that would help my family. So please tell me what Americans are Obama helping if it is not the people in our position? We have always played by the rules and we should not be forced to help others that did not.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Tara, Akron, Ohio — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 12:29:25 GMT

I have no idea if the housing plan will work. However, I know that the bankers that wrote mortages in the last decade knowing they would fail did it simply b/c they knew they would get their bonus at the end of the year regardless. I feel that walstreet and CME have proven that they do not have the responsibility to be allowed to continue practicing in the way they are now. I went to college, on my own, no help financially, I own my own business that i began strictly with savings and not with loans. I pay my bills on time. I see everyday the parents of the children I care for coming in early to pick up their children because they got laid off. If it was still just irresponsible people trying ot cheat the system loosing their homes then I would agree with Rick. However, he needs to open his eyes and try the middle class neighborhoods. It is the everyday people who are paying their bills loosing their homes, some after only one default payment. And they are defulting on their mortages because they got laid off and there are no jobs available. When the rest of the country starts seeing shanty towns similar to the depression era popping up around the country, maybe, just maybe then they will see that our issues are not just lazy people who do not want to pay but actually a lack of job, therfore a lack of a paycheck to pay the bills. I agree that doing something is better than nothing. And everyone's "sacrifice" will be paid back to them when their housing values return and the investment they have nade in their homes is back in their pockets.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Steve Carbone — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 12:29:49 GMT

I see Matt needed some help in shouting down the logic of Rick Santelli - a viewpoint shared by a lot of us Americans who have the "audacity" to live within our means. I guess when someone speaks out against an Obama policy the Obama press corps turn into a intellectual "cowards". By the way, the house and senate had the opportunity to fend off the catastrophe of Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac in 2003 when President Bush urged Treasury Department oversight of the sub prime loan machine but the Pelosi / Reid congress - of which Mr. Obama was a part, decided it wasn't necessary.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

June R. Grove — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 12:30:12 GMT

Now I know why my son complains about network news. It is bias per the argument at 7:00 a.m. re Rick Santelli. About this slogan: "Rick is Right." JRG

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Shawn, Carrollton VA — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 12:30:22 GMT

Rick may be right, but I'd wish that this morning he had shut his mouth long enough to allow us to hear the opposing argument. I'm an Obama supporter, but am skeptical of the housing plan. However, I'm willing to let the Gov't do it's job; to debate how best to help those in trouble.

I also agree with the earlier comment: it's very easy to sit on the sidelines and criticize those charged with responsibility. Makes me wonder if Rick is truly passionate about his position, or more so about getting the headlines.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Steven Ostrow — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 12:31:00 GMT

Rick Santelli is an out of control idiot and a thug. To confirm how out of touch he is, he pointed to a bunch of traders behind him during his video rant yesterday and said "this is America." No Rick, they aren't. They are a group of greed inspired yuppies with the same say anything, sell anything mentality that got us into this mess. To make matters worse, the Today show trots this selfish right wing maniac around as if he is some sort of icon, because he appeals to the lowest common denominator and does so in a manner that is seen to be entertaining to the viewer. This jerk was even allowed to talk over Matt Lauer and the other gentleman trying to explain the mindset behind the housing program. And while Santelli was caught in a lie when he insisted that what President Obama proposed would forgive principle owed by people in trouble with their mortgages, it simply got swept under the rug. I have news fcr this jackass. I am one of those people who is playing by the rules and pay my mortgage every month. The problem is that the value of my house drops every time someone else false behind on theirs. People who have worked for stable companies for years are losing their jobs and as a result, their homes through no fault of their own because of the bad economy. I note that Santelli didn't go off like this when the government was bailing out Wall Street Banks. If there is any justice, this raving lunatic would lose his job and face the same world that millions of Americans are encountering in this economic downturn. I'll bet he'd change his tune real fast.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

L Schulz, Perrysburg, OH — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 12:31:07 GMT

I TOTALLY agree with Santelli! I live in a SMALL house in a fairly affluent community. I would LOVE to live in a bigger, nicer, house. However, I live within my means, pay my bills (including the mortgage!) each month!!! Why should I sacrifice and bail out those who choose to live beyond their means????? Didn't these people who now can't pay read the mortgage contract? No one forced them to live in a house beyond their means. Wake up America and STOP the handouts! Responsibility is a lesson everyone needs to take seriously.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Nancy Sprowls, Manheim, PA — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 12:31:28 GMT

Bravo Mr. Santelli! Finally someone to stand up for the average American. Yes, the average American! I feel bad for people having trouble meeting their mortgages, but we are all suffering in this economy. They invested in their homes and their investment is going down, just like all of our 401k plans. That is the risk you take when you invest whether in real estate or the stock market. We all must bear the consequences of our own investment practices.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Betty W. Bay City, Michigan — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 12:31:56 GMT

Way, Way too much attention given to Rick WHO? Americans voted last November. We are sick of Opinionated journalism. We had that during the Bush administration ..........Which brought us to this....the worst time in economic history

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Dan Lickly — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 12:32:22 GMT

Many of us don't agree with Rick S. Some of us who remember bread lines think that we all must pull together to get out of this mess. Where was all that anger when we squandered $3 trillion on a vanity war in Iraq?

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

CSmith, Westchester, NY — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 12:33:14 GMT

Ricks Santelli's comments are irresponsible. You did not have an outcry when the government bailed out the banks. The banks also have a responsibility don't you think. You're irresponsible and I view NBC as irresponsible for giving you such a platform. I'm one of the responsible home owners and I'm okay with this. It'll help me keep what value I have left in my home. I watch CNBC everyday and I am so disgusted with the team on power lunch except for Dennis. Lisa, I no longer have any respect for you. You've gone crazy. You are all cynical and are obviously on Wall Street's side. I work in financial services, but I think they should take responsibility for how they screwed up the country. It took 8 years to do that. CNBC is not taking about that. The new administration has been around for a months (yes Tim for 3 months), but this is not a fairytale - no one has a magic wand. The stimulus check that everyone got last year didn't work. Are we forgetting about that? CNBC = irresponsible

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Pat A., Palm Beach Gardens,FL — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 12:33:31 GMT

Mr. Santelli is right on.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Dawn W., Clarkston MI — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 12:34:25 GMT

There are several problems with Mr. Santelli's message. First off, ALL the people my friends & I know who's homes are being foreclosed had good credit, 30 year fixed mortgages & are losing their homes because of UNEMPLOYMENT...what about them?? They are just like us, they are in homes they can afford as long as they have a JOB and not $300 a week in unemployement pay. And Rick...Bush sent out SEVERAL checks to everyone & guess what IT DIDN'T WORK. Sometimes you have to give/sacrifice to help your neighbor and in helping them, you help yourself too. That's what we do in war (well, in past wars, anyway) and we are in an economic war for our very lives. It is the attitude of "me first, only me & mine" greed that GOT US HERE IN THE FIRST PLACE. We must break this cycle & if we have to legislate it to overcome the EXTREME GREED of the American public, then so be it.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Terry L Jones Baltimore, Maryland — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 12:35:08 GMT

I agree with both sides of the issue but my beef is where is the sacrifice by the ones in trouble & the ones which allowed them to get these loans. Once that happens, all of us would be more than happy to help.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Earnestine Altizer Christiansburg VA — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 12:35:23 GMT

when will the race issue stop?? if no one could see color the vote for president would have been for Obama. who was the president that got US in this economic mess? hum white,republican. So the folks in Washington, should buckle down, get their heads together,and get advise from Ross P. or Donald T. on how to save a Nation.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Tom B Madison CT — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 12:36:02 GMT

Is the Government promoting bad behavior...yes. However their bad behavior is already affecting my...home prices will continue to be unstable and declining as long as foreclosures build and people in unaffordable situations put their homes on the market. Reducing home inventories coupled with the insentives to purchase are the only way to stablize this mess.

This is what will get the Home Depot worker, Plummer, Electrician, Carpenter and mason back to work.

I heard Mr. Santelli say all the 92% of Americans should get a check...that statement is what is wrong with the mentality on Wall St....the 92% don't want a check we want an economic enviorment that will let us earn a living with our hard work...the REAL American Dream...not the NEW Amercian Dream...winning the lottery.

If Mr. Oboma's plan corrects the economy so that I can EARN a living...that is payback enough for me and is what will get us back on the right course.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

BILL W. — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 12:36:37 GMT

WOULD LOVE TO HEAR DISCUSSION ON THIS: Why not eliminate (1) the need for the gov't to buy the "underwater mortgages", and (2) the inequity towards people current on their mortgages by putting the past-due mortgage amount on the backend of the 30 year mortgage and lower their interest rate. This would stop several future foreclosures, maintain equality for the "current" people, and then wait for several years for the property vaue to recover to a level consistent with the mortgage balance. Neighborhood comps then are not distorted downward by all the foreclosures, and makes it easier for people to REFI without the downward impact of foreclosure on their appraised property value. STOP THE GOV'T SPENDING AND MAINTAIN EQUALITY !!!!

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Carlton R. Clime, Riverview, Florida. — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 12:36:59 GMT

Hey Matt; You need to read this blog brother and get on the right side of this.
My wife and I have High school educations and a little college/technical training and we have been able to own 3 homes, raise 3 kids etc...; Living the American dream. We refinaced when it would save us 2 points or better, shortened our term to 15 yrs. kept our taxes and insurance in esgrow so we wouldn't forget we had to pay them etc...!
We do not have to be responsible for a FEW other peoples poor judgement. 9 million is 3 percent of 300 million right? Why are these 3% more deserving than the rest of us? And at the end of the day most of that 3% still won't have a job to pay for anything anyway. The president needs to force corporate giants to move jobs back to the country that made them rich to start with. If there were still big factories and assembly plants that had thousands of jobs paying 20 dollars an hour in this country; we would not need a stimulas package. And the economists know that this is all fake/no value money; there is nothing real behind it. I am very concerned that this is at best going to simply blow up in our face. Whats next is far worse.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Cindy, Tampa, FL — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 12:38:47 GMT

Today's segment on the Today show was the most unhelpful piece. Yeah, great theater, with Santelli screaming the loudest, but I would much rather hear from the calm guy that was sitting with Matt and Brian. Santelli drowned everyone else out. These are supposed to be news shows, not making the news, and lately all the shows just want to put on the people who can scream the most.

Please put some people on who can calmly analyze the problems, fairly presenting all sides, so that average people can make up their minds. It is not helpful to just try to get people riled up.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Sandy Foutz, Muncie, IN — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 12:39:10 GMT

It makes me sick when I hear other people call the laid off Americans LOSERS. In my opinion the real losers are those with a big mouth and no brain with money stuffed in their pockets. Americans would PAY their mortgage if they had a job. Unemployment barely buys children milk and food and that is if you can get unemployment funds. Let Mr. Santelli or any of you be laid off for almost a year with no income, see how big your mouths are then. I'm so upset, I will no longer watch the Today Show. Just another loss in my home which I DO PAY FOR.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

F. Conley — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 12:40:20 GMT

Please, before you pass judgement on the whole of the American homeowner get ALL the information. My husband works in the union trades and makes between 60K and 70K per year, when there's work. When work across the U.S. is at a stand still and layoffs are happening daily, and unemployment compensation is less than half of your normal income, what does a hard working family do?
We do not ask for help from any government source however when you have children to feed and clothe, other bills have to take the back seat.
We paid our mortgage faithfully from the time we purchased our home in 2002, but due to my husband's layoff we did get behind however it was our mortgage company who ultimately said they would help.
Mr. Santelli, I apologize to you on behalf of the struggling Americans who actually do work hard for a living and are facing hard times because the goverment cannot and will not make it possible for people to get and keep their jobs!
We are asking for solutions to nationwide problems not for a handout.
God forbid you lose your job and have to "walk a mile" in the shoes of those who have little to survive on.
The ones you spoke of that are not paying their mortgages and just seeking the easy way out, they probably don't know what a good hard days work is like.
We choose to work for what we have and be able to appreciate it, not take it for granted.
Again, please don't count all Americans as dead beats.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

rex,ocean city md — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 12:41:25 GMT

Someone change the locks on Ricks House and have NBC cut his salary because they don't have enough sponsers for the broadcast. See how he feels when though no fault of his own he is on the street. That is the story for far too many. I am fortunate not to be in that situation but realize it could happen. As Americans have always done during tragic events its time to support this effort and give it a chance. We could sit back and do nothing like was done on the eve of 1929.
Rex

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

DG, Louisville, KY — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 12:41:30 GMT

Way to go Rick! And as for all those who say no one complained about the banks and WallStreet bailouts - We DID! We cannot socialize losses! The Bush/Obama plan has no merit. The government is simply trying to offset their own losses in the taxes they've been collecting all these years over inflated home prices and overspending practices. I too lost my job last year ... it was a real wakeup call, since then I have been struggling to keep my home ... I havve lost my credit cards even though they were paid in full each month ... But I don't want a handout! That is the last thing I need! I had a great job and I will be lucky to get anything half as good and I have been looking. The govvernment should have more aggressive plans to reduce assessed values on ALL homeowners to reflect more of the 50% or less on the dollar that these homes are really worth.
That would help everybody.
I may still lose my home, but it would not be anyone's fault but my own. I was stupid to listen to greedy banks, realtors, mortgage brokers, credit card offers. Preditory lending at it's best.
Rick, count me in!

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Steve Chamberlain, Manlius, New York — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 12:42:01 GMT

I just watched Rick Santelli on the Today show. He is a rude demagogue. NBC prides itself on professional behavior. Santelli should be fired. Talking over his colleagues is just unacceptable, period. Moreover, his message is one of self-absorbed greed. The benefits earned by the 92% who have kept their mortgage current include being safe in their home, having higher self esteem, and being in a position to help other Americans less smart or less lucky. Shame on Mr. Santelli

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

PG, Rockville, MD — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 12:43:22 GMT

It's amazing that Republicans did not wine when we were spending trillions of dollars on the IRAQI war. Now they are concerned about our children's futures. If they had been paying attention the last 8 years on what was happening at home in the US, then maybe we would not be in this mess. It's easy to criticize, but actions speak louder than words. I'm glad that our President is a man of action. He has that YES WE CAN attitude versus let's not do nothing. I hope Wall Street grows up soon and start acting responsibly. They are like children. Always having a tantrum if they don't get their way. I'm sick of losing my money because Wall Street is so temperamental.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Deb Upset — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 12:44:11 GMT

I am SICK over this housing bail out!! My husband and I make decent money, paid back huge student loans to put ourselves through college and when we qualified for our house the realtors kept pushing bigger, more expensive houses and we said NO and purchased a MORE than adequate home that we are still paying for! In the meantime, all we see built around us are homes OUTRAGEOUSLY priced and they were all SOLD! We always wonder- WHO LIVES THERE?
Now we know, WE DO NOW because we are going to help them surpass the Joneses!! If they forclose than people like me can buy a bargin- THAT is the American way!!! If that is not a solution for Obama, than offer a 50 or 60 year mortage to make the owners still pay while still enjoying their luxury (ugh). OR how about RENT from the bank - ever hear of APARTMENT - we lived in one for a LONG time!! In the end - MOVE THEM OUT!!!

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

West Palm Beach Fl — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 12:44:33 GMT

Now that someone who represents the samepeople "wall street" that took the first batch of money and blew it lets here from someone who actualy reviews credit from exotic vehicles to a Ford trucks.

I am a auto dealer finance manager. Since the end of 2007 I have seen in the 20 plus applications a day that I review a desinigration of borrows credit. Most of them showing late payments and others showing the beginign of foreclosure on there mortgages. Many applicants that are home owners showing multiple refinance (probably to pull equity that wed now know is artificial) mortgage loans and second mortgages. I can tell you that I did not see 92% of applicants paying any of there bill on time. In fact the applicants that had mortgages usualy where behind or have a high deliquent rate.

So this claim of 92% of home owners are paying there mortgage on time can not be true. I had customers for exotic vehicles that where in the 700 beacon score and now can not be financed. Also based on my experience I can tell you that many of the banks are not wanting to foreclose on properties not because of the goodness of their heart but to curb the finacial statements to not show actualy losses and risk.

Based on what I have seen, I would say that most home owners are behind on there mortgage and other debts.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Barbara Lansdowne, Jacksonville, FL — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 12:45:22 GMT

I think Mr. Santelli is so out of touch. I am one of those who would benefit from the mortgage assistance. I went from making 55K per year to 20K per year in SSI Long Term disability benefits due to a illness. I had A+ credit and never missed a payment on anything. I paid my taxes into the system and now I need help. It is so unfair of him to assume that everyone going through this financial crisis was irresponsible because that is just not true. He must recognize that we are experiencing a new generation of homeless and the mortgage plan is one way to prevent it. Tell Rick to get a grip and wake up because he never knows when he might be in the same situation.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

john, albany, ny — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 12:46:48 GMT

I hate to see anyone lose their home. That said the people who are going into foreclosure are a result of their unwise borrowing. The math on the loans is simple, regardless of how easy it was to get approved. They knew what they would owe each month and they essentially "gambled" that times would continue to stay good, housing prices would rise and they would always be employed. There's the problem. PEOPLE SHOULD HAVE PURCHASED HOMES ANTICIPATING BAD TIMES SUCH AS THESE! Everyone has economic downturns, layoffs, illneses, etc. They should have asked themselves "What can I afford?" not "How much can i be approved for". They weren't mislead by lenders...they were greedy.

As for the foreclosure bailout, let the foreclosures continue....those borrowers will have to rent now. My frugality and prosperity are not for anyone else to enjoy but me and mine. I think the government is doing this bailout to ensure properties keep on the tax rolls and don't care much for the families "staying in their homes"

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

George R. Walker, Delaware via working in Kuwait — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 12:50:46 GMT

Rick is correct in his outspoken comments on what is happening with the bail outs. Being an average citizen, I have worked extreamly hard all my 52 years and I am outragged at what is happening. There are so many at fault here, the government regulaters, the banks, the real estate agents, the mortgage brokers, and the citizens who took on too much of the debt that so they can have the American dream of owning a house. Do the right thing. I speak for myself, I have saved all my life to buy my own house and have done just that.
Back when all this nothing down and low interest started I was outragged, thinking and saying to others just how are these people going to pay for their mortgage in 5 years when the rates go up. Well that is just what have happened.
Fess up to your faluts and deal with them as so many of us have through all the struggles that life throws at us.
So Rick, thank you for voicing my the 'me' in America.
I am there to dump the tea off that ship with you.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

John doe buffalo ny — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 12:52:31 GMT

As a construction work putting in my time plus extra, hours and cut backs to keep a float. Just to pay my 70,000 dollar mortgage, with the Basic needs in life. I have made every payment on time. Building Houses that are 300,000 dollars plus. Watching people spend ungodly amounts of money. Then in a matter of months watching the for sale sings hit the curb. Now they want me to bail out people that spend foolishly. When do i get my break as a hard working American. People work hard to get a peace of that American dream, suffer at bad times, but understand the concept of the American dollar. When and when not to spend. I'm tired of bailing out foolish people, foolish business, and foolish government with nothing in return.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

tina, denver, co — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 12:52:38 GMT

I LOVE YOU RICK.

Keep representing the people who work hard in this country and are not greedy!

Obama just does not get it.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Sheila — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 12:53:23 GMT

Yes we such vote on this but we never will because the goverment will never let that happen. Just like they voted on there own pay rise? I done know of any company that does that do you? Anything that is to cost the taxpayers money such be. So that leaves out all of the people in goverment..

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Judy, Lewisville, NC — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 12:53:39 GMT

This is beginning to sound more like wealth redistribution. Our home is paid for and I don't appreciate giving a handout to flippers, people that didn't read the fine print, or stuck their heads in the sand and said the boon years would last forever, etc... My dad worked hard for his money and taught us to be wise in spending. Maybe Americans will learn their homes aren't ATMs.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Jim, Tampa, Florida — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 12:54:06 GMT

People were greedy and bought homes and luxury cars that they could not a ford.

Why should responsible Americans have to pay twice for them.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

shirley yoder — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 12:54:25 GMT

Rah Rah for Rick---why does he get it and the panel does not---he must have family and property that he is responsible for---I thank him for speaking out in public for the silent ones---or the ones that can't-- we need to have him represent us in congress---by the way --obama says we all need to be responsible and cut back--ask him when is he going to start doing that?????

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Pat Poole, Williamson, WV — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 12:54:51 GMT

Thank God for Rick Santelli! Somebody finally with a brain!! I truly believe he speaks for the hard-working American that has learned how to buy "within their means". We need to pray and ask God to get us back on track! I'm surprised NBC let him be heard! NBC is not known for its fairness of views.

Obama got elected by the people who want a free ride...well, he is definitely holding true to this!

Lauer, Gregory, and Williams talks about a call for sacrifice.....How about you three sacrificing your money and job for those you speak of.....It bothers me that you voice your opinion. You are just news REPORTERS....not an economist/financial expert.....Listen to Rick Santelli...he is speaking how the majority of Americans are feeling.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Steve — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 12:55:29 GMT

The American people should be able to approve all BAIL-OUTS proposed by the president!

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Roger Byrd, Mount Airy, MD — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 12:55:37 GMT

Way to go, Rick! I'll join your Tea Party!
Thanks for having the nerve to speak up!
I'm really tired of the creeping socialism that the new administration is pushing, it's down-right unAmerican!
THANKS

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

M Doe, Livingston,NJ — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 12:55:47 GMT

Mr.Santelli, normally I would agree w/ you. But be very thankful you don"t NEED someone to cut u a break.My daughter is the 4th generation to live in the house my Italian immigrant family worked hard to purchase. I have had the same job for close to 30 years.When my husband walked out my crappy lawyer advised me to settle..meaning I had to come up w/ 18,000.Try getting a decent refi w/o credit of your own.I paid 28,000 in interest alone lst year..I have no big screen TV's/fancy cars&feed me & my daughter on $30 a week.I am a member of my church & local civic organizations..I am not a dead beat.I am hurt/embarrassed & never dreamed I would be one of"those people" needing help.If you can think of a better way please let me know.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Faye Higginbotham, Erwin, Tennesse — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 12:56:28 GMT

Why aren't the savings and loans not paying an interest rate that is good to people trying to save for their future? I don't trust 401k's. The people needs to take charge of their own savings. If they choose to spend it when they want, then they suffer what they did to themselves. These people who have learned to spoil their children by making sure they have more materialistic things are at fault for not teaching them how to save. It isn't up to the other 92% to keep them up. I live in the house I was born and raised in after selling my home before loosing it. My husband and I bought a home from the fmha. They base the cost of the house on what you make. After 15 years they sold our morgage to another firm. The cost of the house we could no longer afford. This was back in 1989. We were lucky to sell it and make a little money. Since then my husband died and I am working 2 jobs to support myself when I could make the government {meaning you guys} keep me up.But I choose to support myself for as long as I can. According to the government I am not a widow. I am considered a survivor because I am not old enough to draw a check from my husbands death. True it has been a hardship but I don't owe anybody anything. I don't think I should have to pay some lazy persons way out of debt. They should have known what a variable interest rate was and what a fixed interest rate is. Now I only have a high school education and in the nursing home where I work there is a sign that says if you have a GED you could earn $7400 more a year. I asked my boss where my $7400 was and she said that doesn't work here. I am stuck working with people who doesn't have a high school education. I make barely above minimum wage on the 2 jobs I work. Now if I can make it I am sure these lazy ----- could too, if they didn't live above their means.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

uoli — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 12:56:30 GMT

Rick Santelli understands the American people better than Obama!

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

john, albany, ny — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 12:59:28 GMT

Whatever happened to the idea that if you make a bad financial decision that you could be ruined. It's time for the people being foreclosed on to move out, dust themselves off, and start over... from scratch. Maybe they'll save enough to buy a home in the future...maybe not...nobody has a "right" to home ownership.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Willie Dixon, Hampton, Virginia — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 13:01:27 GMT

The reaction of Mr. Sandtelli reflects the what about me, greed and selfish attitude that dominates corperate America today. People like him fail to realize that we are to esteem the affairs of others more highly than our own, look not upon our own affairs but also the affairs of others. People like Mr. Sandtelli are only concerned about what they can get and their 401k's or portfolios and can not see beyond that. We must all remember that we are our brothers keeper. Most of these foreclosure victims are in this position due to predatory lenders. Most people on Wall Street are unwilling to change their selfish,get all you can get greedy mindset that has gotten us in this position to begin with. Until we are all willing to change, nothing will happen. By the way, my modest portfolio has suffered greatly but I'm willing to sacrafice as much as it takes to help our nation recover from this crisis. I'm in the 92% that pays their mortgage on time and I don't want anything back because I don't need it.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Marianne McInerney, Alexandria, VA — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 13:06:10 GMT

I am all for Santelli-- most of America is mad as H*ll and we need to shout it....as for Matt' s comment's today about sacrifice..our household saw this coming and when other were taking one and two and three vacations a year, we stayed home; when brand was the rage we went to Target; we saved by moving to store brands at the grocery store -- we have been sacrificing and are part of the 92% who pay our mortgage on time (and its a lot)....sacrifice means personal sacrifice not me sacrificing to save those who never modified their behavior and/or who purchased houses, cars and other items hoping no one would catch up with them. I prefer to think of sacrifice in terms of responsibility....we are living up to ours and ask others to as well. And I do feel a responsibility for my community still, even with all we have done at my house to cut back; we did not cut back on charitable contributions and we still donated over $10K to charities last year!

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Sherry Grubb, Bluff City, TN — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 13:08:45 GMT

Rick, RIGHT On! Matt, get real! Your statement, "What about those of us who can afford our mortgages? Shouldn't we help those who can't? Haven't we been ask to sacrafice?" Well, Matt, my husband and I have sacraficed for over 20 years of PAYING OUR MORTGAGE. We bought a home witin our means. We purchased cars we could afford and drove them for hundreds of thousands of miles, instead of borrowing for a new one every couple of years. We didn't buy every new gadget or expensive toy hoping to get gratification with possessions. We've worked hard, raised our kids, lived within our means, have a great life, and now are debt free. When I got in trouble with credit card debt, I worked two jobs to pay them off. We paid our bills because they were our bills. Not one forced us, or misled us. If housing values go down because of foreclosures, it has no affect on the value of our home, because it is a HOME, not an investment. It's not for sale. I don't want one dime of my tax dollars, or any part of my money (which Obama and the Democrats are quickly working on taking it all) to go to dead-beat, crooks that don't think they should suffer for their behavior, but those of us who work hard and pay our bills, should. Sacrafice, Matt? I think we have sacraficed enough.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Mr. Eric J. Dozier, Cincinnati, OH — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 13:13:51 GMT

Who hired this guy, and why didn't he voice his ignorant opinions when George W. Bush was in office???!!!

It's obvious The United States economic situation is not where it was 20 years ago, and the reality of unemployment due to the collapse of of the structure of the American one dollar bill has not yet darkened his doorstep...

But it hasn't even been 3 months of our new president's term and it seems the people who are afraid to commit and make the financial sacrifices found the perfect reason to voice these selfish opinions...

The talk of a "REVOLUTION" is indeed the foundation in which the U.S.A. was founded, but when the motives involved undercut the true goals that primarily benefit the social class he may not belong to, which will ultimatley benefit OUR nation in our weakest moment, his "staged" rants could have been useful durring the cause of this effect...

He should be the last person to raise his voice in revolt , especially in his current career of leeching off the stats of the Chicago consumers spending trends...

His dramatic performances weaken the strength this country gained once our new president came to office...

Santelli, "you are a distraction!" - I said it!!!

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Lisa, New Hope PA — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 13:15:02 GMT

TWO THUMBS UP FOR RICK SANTELLI!!!!!!!!!!!..
The government is rewarding bad behavior. Why should we work harder and get taxed more. Those who have chosen to live within their means shouldn’t have to pay for those who don’t. Where is the fairness.
Why work and pay taxes If this is what the government is going to do with our hard earned tax dollars.
Speak up America!!!!!!!!!!!

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Andrew Walker MD — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 13:16:49 GMT

Rick Santelli is just dead wrong about the mortgage rescue plan, and represents an arrogant, intolerant, egocentric Wall Street / Financial World attitude that has zero credibility after they created this disaster. Why we still let these “financial geniuses” spew their ridiculous “winner take all” mantra - in a game horrifically rigged in their favor – is beyond me. They will never change their twisted message, because they are the big winners! They rigged the game, they trashed the financial system, they took home multimillion-dollar salaries and bonuses, and unbelievably, they show no remorse.

The mortgage crisis is very analogous to traffic accidents in our society. 92% of drivers every year “do the right thing”, are cautious and don’t get in an accident. But 8% of us get into trouble every year on the road and have an accident. Our society spends a huge amount of money helping the 8% who get in an accident because it is the right thing to do. Our emergency workers (many are volunteers) go and get them, and our doctors and hospitals take them in. Rick Santelli’s rant about not helping those with mortgage trouble is the moral equivalent of arguing that we should leave these people by the roadside to fend for themselves. Essentially saying “let them bleed to death, because after all, they are the ones who got in the accident”. The Santellis of the world don’t get it and don’t care. They are millionaires, they don’t have foreclosures on their block, and they don’t get the big picture. Sure, some drivers are going to fast or are tipsy, but we save them because everybody makes mistakes and deserves a second chance. But worse, some drivers are just in the wrong place at the wrong time, like someone with the correct size house and mortgage who loses his job and can’t find a new one. Loses his job because the Santellis of the world recklessly destroyed our financial and credit system, and businesses are imploding right and left.

I hope someone will get out of bed in the middle of the night to save Rick Santelli when he smashes his BMW into a tree after a few martinis with the boys on the Chicago Mercantile Exchange, because it is the right thing to do. Even when his buddies argue it is a waste of government money and it was his fault. These guys won’t change, but we need to stop listening to them!

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Travis Ratliff Honaker,VA — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 13:17:32 GMT

AMEN rick!!!!!!!! my wife and i actually bought something we could AFFORD!!! been married not even 5 yrs. we both have WORKED our butts off and have 6 more payments to go!! why should our hard earned money go out to save the STUPID people??

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Susan, Nashville, TN — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 13:17:32 GMT

I totally agree with Santelli.

And LOVE seeing Brian Williams co-host this morning!!

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Pixie Martin Minneapolis, MN — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 13:17:43 GMT

Please remind those ranting and raving males that we have a history as a nation of helping the less fortunate among us so our communities cant thrive and so others will be there to help us when we need them. Consider the help with mortgages like a barn raising after a fire. Just because your house hasn't burned, you still go out there and help the one whose barn did.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Albert Riederer, Kansas City — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 13:17:45 GMT

Watched Santelli this morning Today Show. He is a yeller who will not let anyone else state their opinion. He's just another bombasic guy who wants to complain but has nothing to offer and will not listen to anyone else. Boring.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Nina, Chicago IL — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 13:18:11 GMT

I'm thankful that I didn't buy a bigger home so I can help my neighbor pay for the home they really couldn't afford. Will my government replenish my 401K losses too? Why not? If they don't I'll be in the same place my neighbor is in today.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Carol Foegelle Duluth MN — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 13:18:19 GMT

I think everyone is missintg the point of the stimulus. It is not so much to bail out the foreclosures as to correct the bad choices made by the banks. If the banks go under in a big way which is very possible without this, the 92% go with them.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Pixie Martin Minneapolis, MN — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 13:19:00 GMT

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Jon Ross, Pasadena, MD — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 13:19:41 GMT

I agree that this proposal simply doesn't seem fair. If the government is going to help someone by changing an arm to a low fixed rate for someone who purchased a home above their means, couldn't they also go to my lender and get me a rate 1 or 1 1/2 percent lower. Doing so would put more money in my pocket and therefore pump more money into the economy. And that way, everyone gets treated equally. And as for Matt and Brian's question about the foreclosed home next to me... so what. My home at one time was severely over-valued on paper. This is a correction, on paper. When I'm ready to sell, I'll get a fair and appropriate price. But we shouldn't use the government to artificially prop up a real estate market that improperly and artificially ballooned a few years ago. This is a correction, albeit a harsh one. People who acted responsibly should not be excluded from a housing package, especially if people who acted improperly are rewarded, or even "assisted." Just my two cents, which apparently now is only worth one cent...

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Karen, from Ohio — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 13:20:27 GMT

We are with you all the way Rick.. Let the Tea Party begin. REVOLT.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Melissa Anderson, Montgomery, IL — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 13:20:37 GMT

In response to what Matt said about it is our duty to sacrafice to help other who are in bad mortgages. Those of us who are making our mortgage payments on time ARE sacraficing. Many of us are working on one income and still paying our bills by cutting back and eliminating the luxeries we used to have-have these other people done this??? Case in point, a nieghbor of mine is about to lose thier house but they go out and buy and expensive dog, fix up thier house, etc. We have SACRAFICED our retirement and other day to day things to keep paying our mortgage but there is no help for us-WHY?????

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

John Zurich, Tampa Bay FL — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 13:22:25 GMT

It would have been nice to hear a completed sentence from the other guy on the Today debate, whoever he was. Mr. Santelli was obnoxious, jading my conclusion that his intentions were not to correct a wrong, but only to be heard like an air horn. He blew his own, all right.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Phil Chicago, IL — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 13:22:58 GMT

Well lets let some of you rich wall streeters lose your jobs and see what happens. Lets see what would happen if the vocal one in Chicago would have to depend on unemployment and then not be able to find a job to support his family. I have experienced both and it is not because of BAD behavior. Maybe the vocal one and all the others should let these GREEDY Banks and Wall Streeters and BD of Traders BAIL themselves out. I have an MBA in Finance and everything that I've studied states that if you don't have a good business plan and your company is not making profit then you fail. WHY has this changed? Greed. We bailed out these loud mouths and they turn around and give out BONUSES??!! If they can get trillions for bad business why not the everday person since it is these vocal people who started this hot garbage.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Mary — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 13:23:52 GMT

AS a closing attorney, I saw people buy homes with $0 down with a 1st & 2nd mtge. Even when rates were good, their second was adjustable, ex. 9% initial rate. I saw their application and what they brought home per month. If they lost their job or health problems arose, there is no way they would make it. The Lenders turned on their blinders, had to because they saw the exact paperwork I did and more. The mortgage brokers were making the big bucks, and it was not the closing attorney. Broker fees paid by borrower and in addition Lender paid a premium fee outside of closing.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Sharon Snyder Yadkinville, NC — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 13:24:14 GMT

I am a separated spouse of a retired 1SG living on a fixed income with 2 teenage daughters living at home, the 1st bill I pay every month is my mortgage which in the beginning was over 50% of our income. That 8% who lived above their means should not be bailed out for making selfish stupid financial decisions. It is rewarding bad behavior of both individuals and greedy banks. The economy should not be held hostage by the fiscally irresponsible minority.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

401K turned to mush just when I need it — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 13:24:27 GMT

I just saw Rick Santelli reply to questions this morning and he never answered the question of what to do about the house next door that is in foreclosure. He probably lives in a location where there are no neighbors. Foreclosures are all around and we need a good response as to how we keep our neighborhoods in tact!

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

James T., Bixby, OK — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 13:26:07 GMT

Santelli speaks for greed?? What!?! I live in a modest home and I pay my mortgage. I am an average Joe and I do not want to bail out those who were not responsible. I saved my money. I do not own a flat screen TV or even have cable TV. My cars are over six years old and I'm OK with that. I agree with Santelli, I do not want to support bad behavior! No one is guaranteed to succeed in America. If you fail, you get up, dust yourself off, and try again. You can blame the bankers but it was your Imperial Government's fault for deregulation of the banks. The banks did what they were told to do, loan money. The banks were going to be sued if they did not start lending money to people who were minorities, which just so happens to be a large majority of the ones who could not afford the loans in the first place. You want to blame someone? Blame yourselves! Get off the couch and turn off the damm TV. Get educated about who is running your government and what they are doing. Be a part of your local government. Change dose NOT start in Washington or even with Obama, it starts with individuals in your local community. Take the power back from Washington and put it back in the states where it belongs.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

anthony bonner , mesquite texas — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 13:26:53 GMT

This is one of the reasons that this country is suffering right now because the people who have money and that have 6 figur incomes are gready as hell. Any time they are asked to pay more they scream and holla and they are the ones who can aford it. If you are doing well u should want to help those that are not end of story.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Shirley, Memphis — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 13:27:16 GMT

In 2007, there were 138 million tax payers. We would be better served if the government gave each taxpayer $50,000. That's about 7 trillion dollars. Wouldn't that stimulate the economy. No matter how they handle the situation, the tax payers are stuck with the bill. This way, at least we all get a share.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Melissa Wise — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 13:27:25 GMT

Absolutely right he is. I am a realtor, single, raising 4 kids, paying for 2 in college, 3rd to go next year--have not asked for or gotten ANY handouts, don't want; have paid for my own house, am trying to hang on while my business/income has been cut to almost nothing. My sellers can't sell, buyers are afraid to buy, thinking we are not at bottom yet. I voted through all of my senators for the $l5,000 tax credit for ALL purchasers--of course, that didn't go through; only $8000.00 for lst time homebuyers in lower price ranges. That doesn't help my builder who has been sitting on a high end house for 2 years, doesn't help him attract buyers to his lots to build; doesn't help people in my neighborhood in the moderate/upper income 300,000-450,000 range who can't sell their homes, many who have faced job loss. But we all just face the consequences. I will be paying lots less in taxes, giving lots less in contributions--probably taking a second job. But I feel those of us who have paid our bills, our taxes, been good consumers are being unfairly penalized with all the debt now of others who made poor choices, see a way around responsibility. I feel we are NOT represented--we have no voice. The press, the presidency and congress have a block on the decision making in this country that totally ignores the responsible segment, the majority of this country.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Michelle, Virginia — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 13:27:47 GMT

Now your screaming because it's hitting your pocket Mr Santelli. When your pockets were getting fat you didn't have a problem. What really bothers me is the disrespect. Your not talking to one of your peers, some Joe Blow from the floor. This is YOUR PRESIDENT whether you like it or not! You are a disrespectful, loud mouth! Go ahead revolt! The fact is you are finally getting hit like the millions of common hard work people in this nation. So SUCK IT OUT SHUT UP! AND STOP BEING SO DISRESPECTFUL!!!

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Melissa, Menomonee Falls, WI — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 13:28:02 GMT

YAY Mr. Santelli! He speaks for that 92% (like ME) that are paying their mortgage payment every month! I am a Realtor! I KNOW ALL ABOUT the Housing Issues! AND I have a 2nd job at an insurance agency so I can STAY IN REAL ESTATE AND stay in my house!!
My family doesn't subscribe to cable - but hey, if Mr. Santelli is on daily - I just may consider giving up something else so I can watch him!

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Mike, Manito, IL — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 13:29:15 GMT

I have paid my mortage on time and I did without to pay off my house ahead of time. Now I have to do without to help other people payoff their house. I here that my house willl be worth less due to foreclosers, my house is already worth less due to foreclosures. The people that are helped should not have any of the extras, ie. boats, extra cars, vacation homes and no tax refunds until they are out of debt. This should not apply to people that have lost their jobs but to people that are still employed.
PS I your house is paid off, let them claim car interest off their taxes.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Betty Wheeler, Union City, Tn. — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 13:29:59 GMT

I just saw mr. Santelli on nbc w/ another man who with Matt and Brian made it three on one. Is that fair? No but its nbc. I f mr Santelli had been one of your liberals would you have called it a rant. Hooray for mr Santelli, I'm with you.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

anthony bonner , mesquite texas — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 13:31:03 GMT

Santelli how many of us get to have there opinions heard on national tv and on the floor of the stock exchange? that tells me that u are one of the ones who should not be saying a word other than what can i do next mr president. and yes u are a jerk for even trying to start this crap.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Big Bob Centralia IL — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 13:31:07 GMT

This is the same guy that doesn't mind the poor people that are loosing their homes to send their only son off to war to protect his sorry rights to complain about people loosing their homes! I am so tired of supporting this type of rhetoric from people that will fall in higher tax bracket. It's time the white-collar people reach down from their Ivory towers and help the blue-collar people before we decide to stop the progress of the wealthiest profits. The next civil war will be between the while-collar and the blue-collar, I don’t think they are ready for a bunch of red necks with out homes to get their guns and take back what they worked for all their lives. So the stocks fall as a Christian I believe it is more important to see how many people we can help in this life instead of what we can end with. We all need to remember that he who dies with the most toys still dies.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

steve hymel — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 13:31:20 GMT

If there was no such thing as macroeconomics or "the common good", Rick would be right!

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Mike Tweardy Port St Lucie ,FL — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 13:31:32 GMT

Mr Santelli mentioned that 8% of the total mortgage holders are in forecloser. His insinuation is that they are all ner do wells. Question? How many of the 8% are in this situation because of loss of employment, medical emergencies, etc. Where was his ranting and screaming when the government gave BILLIONS to the financial segment, without any accountability. Could it be that he was afraid it would slap the hand that feeds him[[Financial Reporter} Please remind Mr Santelli, as a reporter he is to report the news, not make the news.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

AF , Wilmington NC — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 13:33:50 GMT

Thank you!!!! Finally someone speaks out for us, the responsible. We are having to downsize, cut our grocery bills and are not able to get loans despite hard work and excellent credit. This sends a message to our children that hard work does not pay off. While this mess did not start on Main street, and housing isn't the only answer, the people that bought homes they shouldn't have need to make better choices, and the banks selling the adjustable rate arms need to take the hit and go with today's market rates. If you can't pay today's rates, then rent.
We take alot of supporting the general public already, what next????? My kids don't get free lunch healthcare or housing and we have to watch every penny. It frightens me, this huge government. The bailout package feels like the working class is supporting the burden of the entire country without actually fixing the problems that created the mess!!
What would George Washington think?

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Mark, Staunton Va. — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 13:34:41 GMT

Warren Peace, You sound like a smart guy who most likely has a college education. I do not have a college degree but I still feel like you are missing something. There is a ton of us middle class folks that do own homes and 2 cars and our family is living a good life but you and others act as if we were just lucky. Neither my mom or dad even finished high school yet they raised us to work hard and live within our means. In the past I have been let go from a job because of a slow economy. I've gone thru divorce where I had to buy out my x wifes part of our house or move out. I've worked two low paying jobs at once to get by. Now I'm being told that I must bail out the young couple down the street who can't pay their bills. Now the fact that their living in a house worth twice what mine is or driving two new cars and have lots of toys(motor cycles, jet skies) and such might have something to do with the fact they can't make their house payment is considered not important. I say BS! They set themselves up to fail and fail they must. I am a person from the have nots as you called them and I'm trying to become a person that has something. Life throws things at you from time to time. It is up to you to deal with those issues. Their may be 20% of the people who truely need help. For those I and others support helping those people. But the other 80% they must find their own way out, what ever it is. They and our country will become stronger for it!

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Deb, Lexingrton, KY — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 13:36:04 GMT

They say we are all being asked to sacrifice, but there is a big difference if your income is $30,000-$40,000 per year. When we sacrifice we give up groceries, dental visits, and medications. With $300,000-$500,000 per year they are giving up second homes and fancy vacations. Big difference!!! We have been sacrificing for a long time and no one has noticed. Now that the State and local governments are having a hard time balancing their budgets, you guessed it, they are doing it with tax hikes and asking state employees to take unpaid furloughs. When is this going to end; the honest, hard working person can't take it much longer.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

anthony bonner , mesquite texas — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 13:36:05 GMT

Also u stupid jerk "Santelli" if u are able to pay your bills on time every month then why the hell are u frustrated. Try being laid off your job because the company closed down and u can't pay your bills and u have kids that still need taking care of and cars that need repairs that u can't afford and a mortgage that is going under and u can't find a job, now who should be frustrated u bone head.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Gloria Ewing , Barrington Il — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 13:36:46 GMT

Rick good for you at least you had the courage to speak up. The only thing that will stimulate this economy is tax credits. The stimulus package which wasn't even read is full of paybacks to special interest groups. How about running for senate in Illinois we could use someone that speaks the truth

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Mary, Freedom, WI — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 13:37:08 GMT

This is sooooo sad. Are we that petty and selfish that we can not see past the tips of our noses? My family is struggling, just like most middle class families. My husband's hours have gone from 45 a week to 32 a week. And this has all happened since we bought our new home last May. Since then I now have gone from one part-time job to 3 part-time jobs, working more hours than my husband. We had also started a small side business about 2 years ago that we are trying like crazy to make work. The reason we moved to a new home was to have the space to develope our dream business. Has this been hard? Absolutely. But I refuse to play the blame game as Mr. Santelli does. Does his criticism benefit the American people in any way? There are so many reasons the economy is in this aweful state, but we owe it to each other, our neighbors and children, to take care of each other. No one has the golden answer but if we keep blaming and turning on our neighbors in a time of need....we are doomed to fail.
Forever hopeful.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Beth, Sboro, NC — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 13:37:16 GMT

Thankfully, a voice is finally being heard! This "housing plan" is reinforcing irresponsible behavior.

My husband & I have been homeowner's for 5 years. We bought a house because we could afford it at the time and knew we could afford it in the future. We worked hard and sacrificed to own a home. Recently, I took a leave from my job to care for our son. This decision came after we looked at our numbers and made a sound financial decision. Why are we going to be made to shoulder the burden of homeowner's that got in over their heads? I am concerned that the 8% are going to be in better houses with lower mortage payments-- only because they are irresponsible. We have already shouldered the burden of family members that have been hit hard by the economy, stretching ourselves thin and now we're going to have to sacrifice more. Where is the equality in this? How do I explain to my son that we can't move to a better house, even though Mommy & Daddy work hard, but the neighbors down the street, that don't work, have a pool and 2-car garage?

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Tish Keller — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 13:37:58 GMT

Like the other 92%, my morgage is paid, bills are paid, have been and will continue to cut back on things that apply to my comfort to keep this up. The house beside me is forclosed, not because of no job or over financing, but because they wanted to move elsewhere and no buyers for an overpriced home. I know many who are losing jobs and can't find another one. Some have not overspent on homes and are losing them, some have.
I do not mind helping those that didn't overspend and can't find work, to have a break, not a give away, to help with time and help them find work so they may keep their homes.
Those that overspent, overmorgaged, knowing this was risky, and to the companies that helped them do this by looking the other way, let them sink. You are not helping anyone with a give away program that rewards this behavor.
When you fall into the no help catogory because you have done the right thing,and watch those that haven't get the help, bring on the Chicago Tea Party.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Chris Doe, Youngstown, ohio — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 13:38:54 GMT

I totally agree with Rick Santelli. Many of us home owners have made sacrifices for many years to avoid foreclosure on our own homes. We have limited our spending and use of credit cards as to not buy things that were uneccesary to begin with. We understand that having to save our hard earned money is absolutely the right thing to do and we have done it. I believe that the fly by night mortgage lenders that consiously made deals they new were really imoral, obviously didn't care. They had no concerns about the peoples ability to really afford these homes to begin with. They made their money. Many peole may have bought more lavish homes than neccesary. These fly by night mortgage lenders that caused this mess to begin with should be totally responsible for and pay back the money that they made off of these deals and raised interest rates in the process even making more money. In today's world I believe these mortgage lenders could be researched and found to come up with the money they made that led to this mess in this economic crises. Many people that I know that took advantage of these loans also paid their mortgages on time and were able to refinance through lenders that were able to give fixed interest rates at 5% and these lenders obviously understood that peole can either afford a home or thay can't afford a home or in some cases not. Living beyond our means in today's society seems to be the norm. My community's economic status has been depressed for many, many years and yet the responsible people have been able to keep our homes, pay our bills and college student loans!, and raise kids. I certainly believe it is not up to the responsible people that made the right choices should be liable for the consequences of other people's unfortunate behavior. I believe the stimulus money could and should be used to stimulate jobs for the people who have lost their jobs and homes. I am certainly not unsympathetic to their needs. Possibly these people should start over, make good choices and also be accountable for the money that will be spent to bail them out and totally exclude the people that made good choices along with their upcoming generations with the bailout process through whatever means it is going to take to repay this huge amount of money.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Christine from Wisconsin — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 13:39:14 GMT

The banks should never have made these loans in the first place. If we let the banks foreclose on these homes, the value of the homes will drop like rocks and the same people who just lost their homes will be able to buy them back at the lower price. Let the market run its course!!!! If we pay more money for bailouts, we'll all end up homeless next year when taxes skyrocket to pay for all these bailouts! And then who will bail us out!?! Just wait and see. Taxes will soar, businesses will close, more people will be out of jobs, and then more will be in need of bailouts and the cycle will continue with taxes soaring, businesses closing, and even more people out of jobs. The is a downward spiral that will go on and on. Don't start the spiral! Let the market prices for these houses fall so people can afford them. T

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Charles Roberson, Springtown, TX — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 13:40:35 GMT

Please explain how 8% of the mortgages caused trillions of dollars in problems. I haven’t learned this type of math, oh, wait, it’s Wall Street math. How silly of me.
We can certainly give banks trillions to continue the same problem, but don’t help the few that are about to loose their home because once their home has been lost they wont be able to loose it again. We only help those that loose over and over. I’m all for helping the banks numerous times, NOT.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Jennifer, Oconomowoc, WI — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 13:41:50 GMT

I am glad that there are people out there willing to finally speak up about ALL the spending-isn't that what got our country into this mess in the first place??!! I think when a statistic shows that people who re-finance their homes default 55% of the time after six months why do we keep going back to help them. People who have made bad decisions will get a better mortgage rate than I do? Are we going to get paid back the loan amounts for the rates these people had in thier ARMs while I had a traditional mortgage rate that was at a higher interest rate??? This is why people are angry. I do the right thing-I made sure my mortgage payment was withing my means BELOW 30% of my income. It means we live in a smaller house than the bank was willing to lend us money for, and we have kids sharing rooms-but when did "help" mean that I have to pay for someone else's house that is beyond their means. I have no problem helping a fellow citizen and appreciate their are people out their who truly need help but I think Dennis Miller said it simpler last night on Leno. " I think we need to help the helpless, but the clueless they can go scr** themselves...." NBC shocked me to have Mr. Sentelli on the show-I'm glad that they have finally realized there are 92% of the population who are paying their mortgages on time and we might be a little upset by all of the bailouts!!

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Pat Binford, Murray, KY — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 13:43:33 GMT

A plea from a voter/citizen: PLEASE, please tone down the rhetoric and screaming. CONFIDENCE THAT ALL PARTIES CAN WORK TOGETHER FOR A SOLUTION IS WHAT I NEED TO STAY INVESTED. I NEED A CALM, REASONED APPROACH FROM EVERYONE - GOVERNMENT, DEMOCRATS, REPUBLICANS AND STOCK MARKET ANALYSTS TO START. IF YOU DON'T LIKE OBAMA'S PLAN MAKE A COUNTER OFFER.

I also think it is imperative that news sources recognize the effect they have on the population. While I want to be able to filter what's true from the hype and presentation, it's difficult. How many sources of information would I need to know what is really going on? All I get from the current dialogue is that I should not sell, not buy and just hold on.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Carmen Siragusa, Sycamore, IL — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 13:45:31 GMT

I agree with Mr. Santelli! How about those of us who have student loans, children, are dealing with the loss of jobs and are still managing to skimp by?? We are losing our democracy here people! It is socialism. If everyone else is going to let their homes go and be bailed out, maybe I should to! What's good for that small percentage being bailed out should be good for all!!

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

MM, Houston, Texas — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 13:46:28 GMT

I love Mr. Santelli.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Rose D. — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 13:47:32 GMT

I disagree with Mr. Santelli, First of all it is not Obama's fault that we are in this mess, he is only been in office for about a month. Mr. Santelli has no right to complain or lead a revolution.He had no comments when Wall Street was bailed out and millions of dollars were going in his or his fellow associates pockets. Money was mispent and used to benefit the people who put us in this situation in the first place. No comment was made when they bailed out the Auto Industries and the money was used for technology and payroll. Can you hear me Mr. Santelli. Unless you are willing to represent all parties involved you need to keep he comments and actions to yourself. I am an average person who pays my mortgage and bills.I carry own water and don't mind if someone needs to drink from it. I thought that what our country was all about.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

liveinaustin, Austin, TX — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 13:48:55 GMT

Please remind Mr Santelli that this is NBC not FOX news - please do not talk over each other, its rude and distracting and immature. If I wanted sensationalism instead of rational discussion I'd be watching FOX. Please limit this kind of silly behavior.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Pat Binford, Murray, KY — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 13:49:19 GMT

NBC posted the comments supporting Santelli first on this webpage. So if I scanned the first screen & did not continue reading I would think - well, most people support him. Is this NBC's news bias? I find it hard to believe it just happened.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Dana Clayton, Cookstown, New Jersey — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 13:49:25 GMT

THANK YOU RICK SANTELLI!! YOU are so Right ..PLEASE do not appologize or Back Down Now.Please Know that So Many Americans Appriciate what you have said about
The Obama administration Housing Plan. WE the American People should Have a Voice in this Plan that they are forcing down our throats.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

KT — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 13:50:27 GMT

Lets get out and speak to all of the "Average" citizens. Not the rich over $250,00 (what a joke) and not the ones in mortgage free fall. Who is representing us?? It seems to me that both parties in Washington are corrupt and looking out for themselves. What happened to personal responsibility in this country? If we are going pass these insane laws we should get to VOTE on them not have the politicians who race crazy ineffective bills through that we have to pay for! Please a little professional impartiality on the parts of the hosts of the "new" shows.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Bill, Boca Raton, FL — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 13:50:57 GMT

I worked in the Space Program in the late 60's. In 1969 the phased out the majority of the Saturn Apollo team and there were suddenly thousands of homes on the market in the Cocoa/Rockledge/Titusville area. We were unable to sell our house and like thousands of others, we lost it to forclosure. The Government never offered to bail anybody out and even though 70% of the houses on my street vere vacated, within 5 years the free market took care of the situation and the area did recover. Why would we want to waste billions on the current situation when history has proven that the housing market will eventually correct itself.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Mary Westerfield, Tarrytown, NY — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 13:52:05 GMT

Having watched Matt Lauer on NBC this morning berate Rick Santelli by suggesting decaf coffee, I was outraged and angry. I will never to watch that show again. Shame on Matt Lauer!!!!! The public isn't stupid I am one of millions of Americans who are sick and tired of the Matt Lauers of the mainstream media. Rick Santelli has been the rare impassioned voice to speak for us, the working and bill paying Americans who are witnessing our way of life being destroyed. I can only hope that the Brown Shirts arrive at Matt Lauers door to move him out of his Westchester spread and offer it to “some poor sole” who was forced to lie about their income to get into a home that they cannot afford. Let’s have Matt Lauer explain how the black hole of bad mortgages originated from legislation, not Wall Street. Better yet let’s have Matt Lauer released from his cushy job altogether.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Brad, Franklin, TN — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 13:55:47 GMT

Rick Santelli speaks for a large group of American's that normally stays silent. I have not received a paycheck in over 6 months now. I live in a modest home, in a neighborhood that includes foreclosed homes.

I've read everything regarding the stimulus and new housing plan and there's nothing there that will help me. I'm sorry, but many of us are hurting and we need help to.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Jaysa Watson, Belleville, IL — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 13:57:15 GMT

I completely agree! We are a family of 4 with one worker and make apx 40K a year and manage to make our mortgage of almost $1,000 on time. How much more do we have to sacrifice? We don't go on vacations, own 1 vehicle built in '01, eat at home, and shop at thrift stores for clothes and etc. I don't think we can give anything else. All this is going to do is tell people that they can have their cake and eat it too. It is not our problem that people are so caught up in image that they would rather sacrifice things they need for expensive things they want. If the gov't does bail them out, they should not be given help for free. People need to be held accountable for their actions. I think that the gov't needs to focus on the real problem of the economy, oil! As long as the oil companies are in real control of the economy things are not going to get better. These problems escalated out of control when the price of gas went up. People were stretched so thin already, that they sacrificed everything just to put gas in the gas guzzler they had to have. That just started the downward spiral with every economic problem in this country. But, nothing will ever happen b/c too many politicians are in the pockets of the greedy oil industry!

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Darla, Ridgway Pennsylvania — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 13:58:14 GMT

I am just one of the so called middle class who is very angry of this whole morgage mess but what is someone like me to do. almost 13 years ago whe bought our house, we bought with in our means (we were making a combined income of 60k a year so we also set that as our price limit) we paid 60k for our house and put 10% down with a fixed morgage for 30 years - it is a 2 bedroom, 1 bath, kitchen, living room and an unfinished basement, we have 2 sons so i know it seems small but it worked for us and we could afford it and still put food on the table, since then i have lost my job, went back to school, almost lost our home, found another job, and we are now back on our feet and putting our sons through college. my husband and I work very hard he alone works hundreds of hours of overtime each year, well until the econemy tanked. my problem with the whole notion that we do nothing even though i am pissed that we have to do anything is now my husband is lucky if he work 2 or 3 days a week i work for the state of PA and will be luck to have a job by July and we could not sell our house today to save our soul. 2 years ago we put 20k in to our house not out of want but out of need which is a whole nother story. so you would think my house is worth 70-80k, wrong we would be lucky to get 20k for our house. i guess my question is what about people like us who did everything right, we lived well within our means, but now because of these people, banks and everyone else involved in this mess we will pay in the end no matter what, either we help the idiots or we let them sink along with the value of our homes and they will drag us down with them. But i don't want my hard earned money to reward these fools either. I listen to people like Mr. Santelli go off the deap end in one direction which is not help anything but i am not sure if what the President wants to do is correct either. I just feel that our politions really need to put their egos aside and work together on this because there is going to be alot of inocent victoms when all is said and done. I just hope i will not be one of them.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

w f cosby,selma ,al — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 13:59:17 GMT

rick is right.many contributed to this mess.some one needs to pay for the decisions made and some one needs to truly investigate each loan in order to re- qualify the borrower placing guidelines for these conditions.no one wants to see people suffer but the simple response is not to wipe the slate clean,bail out everyone,start over with the taxpayer footing the bill,no.if that happens then everybody else should say we want to renegotiate or we will all band together and just not pay our bills and let the government pay for it.we need responsibility ,common sense and charity during these times.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Gayle, Groveport Ohio — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 13:59:21 GMT

I am a single mom making less than $50,000 a year living in a house valued at less than $100,000. I bought a house I could aford and have at times stuggled to make the payments, Now you tell me I have to sacrific to help someone keep there $300,000 that they can not afford. How is that fair?

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

PMG, Hollywood, FL — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 14:02:40 GMT

I agree with Rick, and I don't think he sounded like a mobster...did anyone else catch the nasty Italian-American stereotype so casually used by the anchor doing the interview...oh, I forgot Rick's profile doesn't fall into a protected class so ethnic slurs are no problem here...

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

A.V. Groman — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 14:02:48 GMT

The arguments against Rick are because of his intelligence, ability, and earnings. If any of you have would watch CNBC on a regular basis, you would know that Rick has been against bailouts of any kind. Steve Leasman has. It has been a great debate back and forth.

So Rick makes a million a year. Pick up a book, get an MBA and see if you can do what he does. To me he is average. He took advantage of what this country offers. He put his nose in a book, worked long hours, and is harvesting the roots of his labor.

There has been no logical and intelligent fact based response to why Rick is wrong. Just he is scum for being successful.

I am an average guy. My wife is a teacher. I am self employed and am struggling. However, I knew that a day like this could come. We did with out (i.e. did not use credit cards-no flact screens in my house. We drive ten year old cars-no payments. We lieve in a home that one salary will support. I don't have any sympathy for most of the people loosing a home they could not afford. I have sympathy for the good people caught up in this mess. But still, it is not my responsibility to cover their ass. It is definitely not the governments role to tell me I have too do so. I feel the same way about the banks and brokerage houses.

Oh by the way-You better start preparing for much worse. Start buying food. The US is going to run out of the ability to print money soon.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Linda Marie Sterling, Augusta, GA — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 14:06:44 GMT

I agree with Mr. Santelli 100% Way to go!Stand up and be counted Americans

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Poncho — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 14:10:06 GMT

Where was Rick when the banks were writing the bad - no assets, no income, no job - loans? You know, the ones we have to bail out now?

Lining his pockets.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Andrena, Minneapolis, MN — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 14:12:09 GMT

For "Mr" Santinelli to rant and rave like a lunactic on the floor of the Chicago Mercantile Exchange was at the least, unprofessional. His bravado again this morning on the today show displayed a lack of respect to his colleague, Steve Leisman as Mr. Leisman was constantly interrupted. Where was this "outrage" when the finacial institutions received their "bailout"? Where was this outrage when many of Mr. Santinelli's ilk encouraged the behavior and reaped the profits of the companies behind the mortgage backed securities?

Mr. Santinelli, needs to take a xanax, stay away from the caffeine and perhaps remember what he obviously didn't learn in journalism school or CNBC employee orientation. His job is to report the facts from the mercantile exchange as they develop, not perform "Air Checks" for Jim Cramer's Mad Money show. He is an embarassment to CNBC and NBC News!

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Beth, Mt Airy, MD — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 14:13:02 GMT

I would like to add one thing about the bailing out the foreclosure mess as everyone calls it. My husband and I looked at homes to buy during the era of no money down, interest only payments for five years then refi and make a bundle. We were renting decided to see what could be done for us. We told the realtor to back up a minute and let us think. Then using good ol' common sense we started thinking about what if. We knew then the housing market would come down. With interest only payments, we would NEVER own that home. We were pressured by the mortgage people and the realtor and said no.

Now it’s bailout the mortgage mess. What about people like us? It will take us a heck of a long time to buy a house because of greed on all sides of the mortgage mess equation. Our taxes are going to bail them out and we will have to work even harder to get into a home since banks don't want to loan money any more. Talk about being stuck in the middle of the storm!

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Cheryl Benefield — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 14:14:13 GMT

For the people who cannot pay their monthly mortgage - how about a 40-50 year mortgage? Lower the monthly payments without lowering the principal. Or...if you receive bailout money, when/if they sell, this bailout is deducted from any "profit" they would make.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Harry Braun, Somerset, NJ — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 14:17:30 GMT

If the 1933 depresion was called “THE BIG” and current depresion is called THE BIGER”, I will like to call it the Big Scam Ever managed by US Banks. For each mordgage made the brokers are getting $635.00 when the mordgage is turn over to Fany May, Fredy Mak, Banks of all kinds. The Banks borwed money from the world Banks on the “assets” which where inflated artificialy. There was also created an artificial sens of prosperity. When the scam was to big every thing colapsed. How we can solve it now? Superman have turn the earth backwise to turn the time. We can find a benchmark for a real value of this assets, say 2005 before the scam went to far, and having the houses priced from statistical data in each ZIP area. Now with the value stabilized, the bank can find what is the loss, find which houses are not covering the mordgage and therefore are bad assets and which are value. Here the goverment can take over and shore the bad assets and find the size of the stimulus. The callers were presuring me too. I didn't participate to tho the frenzi feeding and I change the engine on my car, didn't remordgage my propety and buy an Escalador. The ones to participated to this Big Party shall live by their actions. They shall not take home the left overs too, and we the majority of responsible people pik-up the tab. Remember the entire world is partner to this. Remember that bad economic times were used by anarhists, comunists and others to play on peoples misery, create unrest and change the cours of history. Just think how Al Quida could use this economic mishup to stir the world up.
And another point! The infrastructure in the past was build with money generated trough BONDS. If one wants the privet sector to participate to recovery, WHY NOT BONDS secured by the government??
However, this how I see it.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Nancy, Clinton, SC — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 14:17:32 GMT

Rick, where do I and my friends sign up? My Husband and I with 2 kids, did with out all our life just to own our house. We didn't take vacations. No such thing as eating out. Beans and bread a lot of times.
It does speak for the average citizen. Let us vote and see.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

p donahue, chicago, IL — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 14:19:02 GMT

I am so mad at this "spread the wealth". I work hard for a living, and I am 67 yrs old this year. I
pay my bills and never extend myself but I still have to work to support myself. I am tired of paying out money to people who do not work, take advantage of all of our services for free, will be getting SS# even tho they are here illegally and people that take on mortgages that are beyond what they can afford. Tell me where a bus to Washington will be set up to take us to protest. I will march with them. The Democrats are giving us change alright. Change to socialism !!!MAD MAD MAD

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Sue Ellen, Bloomfield, NM — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 14:19:28 GMT

Noone in the White House is listening again. Why are Millions of people spending so much time trying not to work over the Soc. Sec. guidelines between 62-66 if they take early retirement? We can get ourselves out of this mess. I have a plan, call me. Sue Ellen.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Ryan Osborn — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 14:22:22 GMT

Interesting reading comments. Let's keep it civil.

One point that no one has touched on is the idea that Santelli's original idea was for Americans to vote on the internet.

I know the Obama administration is tech savvy but this is a pretty ambitious idea.

How would a site like this work? Is it even possible?

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Joyce, Memphis TN — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 14:23:37 GMT

Hooray! Finally someone on the liberal media has it right. Bailing out leads to more more bad behavior. We were unemployed for a full year, $600,000 house, private schools, 3 cars. We got through it with this funny thing called savings. When you live within your means up front, you can ride out any recession. The wall street fat cats that keep getting referred to are the ones we need to go shopping. The economy will only bounce back if people spend. I qualify for 0$, I doubt my 80 year old parents and their $250 check will start the economic engines. Bail out the mortgages and those people will just rack up more debt on things they can live without....that isn't stimulus, it's teaching more irresponsible behavior.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Lynn — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 14:25:44 GMT

My husband and I have friends who have been living the good life on credit for several years, spring break in Florida, leased cars, private schools for kids, latest electronic gadgets, etc. It finally caught up with them and now they’re just going to let their house go, live with relatives, file for bankruptcy and they say in two years they will have perfect credit. They say they are relieved. What fools we have been by paying off our credit cards every year with tax refunds, driving used vehicles and only taking two vacations in the last 20 years. We’re supposed to feel sorry for their choices and help them out? They’re just going to quit paying for anything (except the VERY important cell phones and high speed internet and dish TV) and we’ll pick up the bill in interest rates and taxes. What a great deal — for them.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

thomas chapman, florence, sc — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 14:26:11 GMT

thank you Rick, for your comments in a forum that will actually be heard. So many of us a fed up with all this bailout garbage but don't think our voices will ever be heard. You have sparked a revolution to take our country back.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

J.R., Denver, CO — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 14:26:40 GMT

I just saw Mr. Santelli on the Today show. The arrogance of his attitude was apparent since he kept interrupting everyone and would not listen to anyone. It's easy to be upset: was he equally upset when American jobs were outsourced or downsized and people began to lose their jobs? He's talking about 401Ks; what about the people who are busy sending kids to college, working in jobs where they have lost all their benefits and can't even afford a 401K and have NO retirement plans? He is completely out of touch with what is really happening in America. Obama is right; the American Dream is in danger. He just wants to shore up his own nest egg and to h@ll with everyone else. Easy to say, if you have a 401K, a dependable job, a decent income, and a secure mortgage. Though no fault of his own, my husband's work has been cut back because there's no building going on. I'm self-employed and have no benefits. And who cares about all this? Not Santelli, that's for sure.

This is a complex problem; it's easy to blather about it. Obama has the responsibility for trying to steer us away from a worldwide Depression.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Katie M., Boise, Idaho — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 14:27:45 GMT

i am absoulutely appalled at the housing bail out plan... we are ALL affected by the current economy... what hasnt been said is that whether or not the the banks put a person into a certian loan or not, ultimately the HOMEOWNER made the CHOICE to buy that home, get that mortgage, pay by those terms. i was working in the mortgage industry as a processor at the height of the housing boom, and if i had a dime for every time i was told point blank by a borrower while trying to explain that they were getting dangerously close to going over ratios and that the house was too much for them, that i just need to do my job and push it through because this is "their dream" and i better not get in the way of their dream, i would be in early retirement right now.... i even had one borrower tell me that how he fed his family was his business, and mine was to get them to the dinning room he would be providing those meals in (ulitmately, this loan was pulled by the borrower and taken to another company who "wasnt giving him such a hard time closing the loan") now, i have been out of a job for 17 months, was laid off after trying to come back from maternity leave. yet, my husband and i still pay our mtg on time, we are not late on our bills, pay off our cc monthly, feed our family, and continue to save a little every week, just in case my husband also gets laid off from his electricians job (no, we are not millionaires, we make a simple living). like hell do i think i should have to bail out my neighbor who was stupid enough to buy a house they couldnt afford, on a 100% adjustable mortgage, in a loan he probably fudged his numbers on in the first place...

in this Santelli debate earlier, the other guy said that this is where we all have to make sacrifices....

MY FAMILY AND I HAVE ALREADY MADE ENOUGH SACRIFICES!!!

Put the housing bill to a vote... Obama will get his answer quick enough. Do something to help promote responsible lending and spending, not the other way around!!!

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Cari, Windsor, Co — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 14:28:44 GMT

Rick Santelli, We bailed out wall street and now you don't want to help the little guy. Did you for get the little guy made it possible for you to have a job. I'll bet you would change your tone if you were in this situation. By the way the unemployment rate is under rated. Do the powers that be count all the self employed people who no longer have a business let alone a job.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Ellen Smyth, Mesa, Arizona — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 14:29:01 GMT

Just watching your show, every one is upset over the forclosures
and what President Obama is putting in place to help. But the real issue is'nt being talked about. I live in Arizona, the house right next to me was forclosured
due to the banks loan to a woman who purchased it for her illegal relatives and then they got deported back to Mexico. And I'm sure this is what has happened for the most part of our housing market because relatives of these illegals want to have their family here and they think they can make money off of them. Where do we start to fix this problem. Thank You P.S. They tore the house up, holes in the walls ect. ect. Now they can't sell it.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Deb, Phoenix, AZ — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 14:29:24 GMT

If the banks would negotiate in good faith with people instead on hoarding the money they've received from the government this would be a non-issue. My husband lost his job and we've burned through our savings and are on unbelievably tight budget to keep paying our mortgage on time. We put over 20 percent down on our home and when we bought it it was well within what we could afford. I've asked the bank for a temporary reduction in our interest rate, but they won't even talk to us until we at least 31 day behind.I've watched my neighbors that put no money into their homes walk away and lower everybody's home values, disgusting.
He has a new job, at lower pay. We have no savings left and our son just got into his dream school, and we make too much money for Pell grants and we won't qualify for FAFSA.
Maybe Mr. Santelli should lose his job and try to negotiate in good faith with his bank. I forgot, he works in the financial markets, he probably could live for years off of his bonuses.
I don't want a handout, but what good does it do the bank, my family, and especially my neighbors for my home to go into foreclosure. I don't want my loan balance adjusted I would just like a temporary adjustment in my interest rate.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

C, Colorado — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 14:31:04 GMT

Amazing that many people still feel that a bailout is their right...Less amazing is the media's transparent attemp to shamelessly promote the agenda now transpiring in D.C.. Rick is 100% correct, I am willing to help, but not cover up for bad decisions made by those individuals who were flipping houses, lying on mortgage applications, and betting on a runaway market to allow them more house than they could afford. Lauer & Co. are blinded with politics. Stopping foreclosures will not help those that ae making there payments, as that is a function of cash flow! There is a huge difference that many are ignoring. Remember the outcry about whether the Big 3 could afford jet aircraft??? This is no different. Again, the reason for the foreclosures is the inability, or lack of desire to make their payment that has nothing to do with the value, unless they chose to walk if their SCHEME did not work. i.e. flipping or over leveraging. The economy is the whole of the American people and their desire and ability to produce. Gov't. has never produced new goods and cannot. Wakeup people, what will happen when those of us that are doing what is needed to perform, are shown that by doing so we are in fact being penalized, and choose to also walk? The undeniable fact is that housing as well as manyh other investments were overvalued, and need to self correct. Lauer, what a poorly veiled attempt to place your political views out front to disguise your inability to understand economics. About kinde, gentler more caring society? How do you exlpain away the thoughtful those who intentionally entered into contracts that they should never have been in? Disgust.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

lol rey wilkes barre pa — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 14:31:58 GMT

finally a voice of reason, thank you rick santelli. other reporters should take a note out of rick's playbook. instead of cheerleading obama's every move, they should do their job and ask the valid questions millions of americans deserve to have answered. rick santelli 2012!

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

charles, herndon, VA — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 14:36:14 GMT

Santelli said it would be fair if everyone "got a check" instead of the deadbeats. Everyone did get a check, it was called a tax cut!!!

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

ron, phoenix, az — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 14:37:54 GMT

How could everyday Americans be supporting anything that comes our of the mouth of a rep from Wall Street? The financial institutions have received more than anyone, and what have they done with that money...BONUSES. Mr. Santelli is a selfish bonehead.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Lee Ann Salt Lake City — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 14:40:51 GMT

Wayne
You insult the average Joe. The average Joe stands up for himself and doesn't expect others to bail him out. I'm happy to see the comments on this board. Finally, the American People are waking up and realizing how government is forcing choices down our throats.

If Matt Lauer and Brian Williams want to make sacrifices, do it by your own volition, and don't maker others come with you.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Ray, herndon — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 14:41:19 GMT

Mr. Santelli, when Jesus went to the temple he did not throw out the poor, he threw out the money lenders! You're throwing stones at the wrong people.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

K. Garner Nyssa, Oregon — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 14:43:31 GMT

Liberals in this country have been rewarding bad behavior for 50 years, from Welfare to Medicaid. Why should I pay for my neighbors mortgage when I was responsible and stayed in a house I could afford?

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Chuck, Ann Arbor, MI — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 14:45:47 GMT

The Elephant in the room is the 92% of us who stay in our house even though we are upside down. However, part of the lost value is due to the rate of foreclosures. When the tide of foreclosures is reduced to normal historical level of 1.5% we will see a value bounce because foreclosures will not be the 80% of homes being sold currently. The only issue I have with Rick Santelli is when a point is debated Rick has to let the other person express his thought. Rick feels if he interrupts or talks very loudly he is right.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Bridget, Chicago, IL — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 14:46:39 GMT

If by "haves", you mean people who worked and saved and bought a house they saved for and could afford, then count me in. The average "Joe" is NOT demanding others pay their mortgages.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Marsha Anderson Bartonville IL — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 14:47:14 GMT

I bought my house in 1986. Nothing fancy just a 2 bedroom 1 bath house for my husband, myself and our 2 daughters. We paid cash for the little house and have enjoyed it. In 2001 my husband needed a kidney transplant. We had little money to live on while he recovered from his transplant. We borrowed $40,000.00 for 15 years. We are now down to 7 years owed and are in fear of losing our home. The company he works for as a truck driver is down sizing and who knows what it will be day to day. As of now he has a job and insurance, but a few weeks ago our Rx coverage was cancelled. It has since been restored, but with his medications costing $2,000.00 a month it is a big concern. I doubt that Obama's plan is going to help us if we end up without an income and lose our house.
Not to mention what we will do if our Rx coverage and insurance is lost. We are living day by day paycheck to paycheck. I pray for our enconomy, our president and hope for our country only the best, but it sure is scary.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Bridget, Chicago, IL — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 14:49:29 GMT

And for those who keep saying we voted for this when "we the people" voted for Obama, please remember that "we the people" voted for George Bush, so you are saying that everything he did was approved by the majority vote from that first November? I think not.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Chas, Rockwall,Tx — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 14:52:10 GMT

Way to go Santelli,

Hopefully this will wake everyone up to realize that Obama is nothing more than an articulate George Bush. HE may spend our money a little differently, but spend it he will. Note that this plan has only a modest benefit to most homeowners, maybe 15K each, but Billions to the banks.
This will end when we realize that all politicians are whores.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Tom O, Minneapolis, MN — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 14:54:45 GMT

God bless people like Rick Santelli. The bottom line in Rick's message is the hard working tax paying, Please note : TAX PAYING, citizens are sick amd tired of getting kicked in the ass. No accountability for bad decisions or behaviour. Our politicians have done NOTHING on both sides of the isles and this started way before 8 years ago. The stimulus package that no one had time to read is a clear example of the complete morons running this country.

I'm ready to enlist in the "Santelli Tea Party" and let the revolution begin!!!

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Darlene, Richardson, Tx — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 14:56:00 GMT

Freddie and Fannie created this mess, now we want to give them an additional two billion?? The terms of this bailout also won't help someone who is laid off and has NO income. Santelli is right on, we should let this play out. I don't want to pay for my neighbor's mortgage.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Collin Cote Jackson, Michigan — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 14:56:50 GMT

This mess wasnt just caused by losers getting loans.I see people getting equity loans on their homes not the original mortgage to be a big problem also.The government endorsed this because the only interest you can deduct is the interest on your home.The bailout money should be helping people buy up homes too as long as it is their principal residence.Every homeowner in America should get an interest reduction on their home.That would be more fair.And until this country goes back to a manufacturing based economy we will have no real growth.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Regina Miskewitz - Phoenix, AZ — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 15:00:36 GMT

It is outrageous that responsible people are being asked to pay for those living beyond their means!
How do we get this to President Obama? Can this be changed? Or it is too late? Frankly, I live below my means because I am single and never want to get into a bad financial situation.

When are we going to abide by the Consititution that "all men are created equal" from a tax and 'reward' POV? Flat tax rate is what we need.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Annette Foust Greeley, CO — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 15:00:38 GMT

So it's ok that so many americans were taken advatage of when it came to the mortgage brokers that were making 3x's the commissions compared to conventional and government loans. These brokers cramed these loans down these americans throats. It's ok that wall street gets bailed out only to have the CEO's spend the money on vacations, spas, and million dollar offices. Let the little man suffer and the rich get richer.

Does not get any more american than that does it!

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Gary Elliott, Superior, WI — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 15:02:35 GMT

I totally agree with Rick! My wife and I have always lived within our means even when our means was very meager. In 31 years of marriage we have never overdrawn our checking account and never revolved on a credit card (balance always paid in full each month).For the people that live beyond their means its time to face the consequences. They should be foreclosed upon and have their credit rating destroyed! Hold them accountable!!

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

p thompson, Kansas City, MO — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 15:02:53 GMT

Bad behavior--ok---bad decision making --ok--don't want to work--ok---but if you do want to live and work and in the USA you now have to pay for everyone who makes a mistake---no responsibility except for those of us who live responsibly--and we pay the bill.

I think the man hit the truth on the head---

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

michelle foutouhi — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 15:09:21 GMT

Okay Rick, my family and I are with you - let's go to Chicago in July and hear our voices

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Bill Sabin, Eau Claire, WI — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 15:12:35 GMT

WTG Rick. Thank God somebody is sticking up for the responsible taxpayers. It is wrong for the Govt to force me to help clean up after the irresponsible folks.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Carol Murphy, Springfield, MO — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 15:18:37 GMT

Oh please! Mr. Santelli, what part of sacrifice do you not understand? We are all in this together, united. Just because there are houses in your neighborhood in forclosure and that most assuredly lowers the value of your house, that's no reason to make a public spectacle of yourself. You should be ashamed of yourself. This is America and we should take care of one another. We are our brother's keeper, especially now. As for all who support you, thank God for living in America, land of the free. Yes, I said free! Just look around you at some other countries and then whine, if you dare.

It's true, these are hard times for a lot of people; some who have never known hard times before. Think and speak positive thoughts always. Yes, you can!

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

PB — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 15:18:40 GMT

Hey Matt: I already sufferred and did my share of burden. Our first house was 20% down at 13%. We saved, stayed within our means and have continued to do so. What about the ones that made the risky purchases? How about a they suffer for the greater good? I'd like a little extra $ since my investments are in the tank, put two kids through college so they could be PRODUCTIVE citizens. No one ever said a home HAD to appreciate in value. Just like my investments aren't guarantted to gow in a postive direction.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Diane Dudley — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 15:20:06 GMT

What is CNBC’s Rick Santelli screaming about? He shows how truly selfish people are today. Where's his sense of community? I bet he has never had any trouble paying his bills.

The Stock brokers, banks, etc. got us into this mess and they were bailed out and still were able party hardy.

It's not like the homeowners are being handed their house on a silver platter... there are regulations this time!

I'm glad I am don't have to worry about a mortgage right now. I can't imagine the terror people are feeling who are loosing their jobs and can't make the bills or feed their children.

Shame on you Mr. Santelli, shut up and do something to help your neighbor. Stop kicking him when he is down.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

PB — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 15:20:16 GMT

maybe the Senators that just got $93,000 for their offices could donate to those in their districts that need cash. I'd like to sign up!!!

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Casey, Altanta, GA — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 15:21:54 GMT

I am glad a public figure is finally speaking out against this plan. Why would Americans who are struggling want to use their money to help out those who can't help themselves. It is not a fair and equitable plan for middle America. I own a home I would like my mortgage lowered, but instead of going under I work longer hours to make more money and help mysef and my family.

To make matters worse; Matt and Brian were very obvious in their views this morning and should do more reporting about both sides of an issue than discussing their own political views. I love the today show, but their personal views should not come across in reporting, especially on the state of the economy where people need all the unbias information they can get.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Bennie Hansen, Montesano, WA — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 15:22:00 GMT

My sociology Professor in college hammered on us that there would be a second revolution in this country. We all laughed at him thinking that was silly. But now, hearing Mr. Santelli talk about another tea party I wonder. I love Mr. Santelli and have watched him for years. I felt his passion, his pain and worry as he spoke. Maybe his words could have been chosed better but he did make a point....Mr. Obama, were you listening??? I hope so. Thank you to MSNBC for covering this story so well.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

ER, Nevada, MO — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 15:23:26 GMT

I am a 52 year old single mother with two sons in college, two sons at home, and an 87 year old mother to whom I provide care. I have owned my contracting business for 18 years and have been in my home for over 13 years. I had a 30 year fixed mortgage, no credit card debt, and six months emergency savings. My crime is that I have been unemployed since October, 2007. I have depleted my savings, cashed in my life insurance policies, annuities, and assets. The only thing left is my home which sits in a rural area with few buyers and is about to be forclosed upon. I have never accepted any assistance from the government including unemployment and according to Rick, I'm to blame for this economic mess. Well I'm glad to know that the Republican machine is remaining true to form spouting the virtues of corporations and CEOs' with their willingness to "trickle down" their bailouts to those of us just too stupid to manage our own affairs. By the way, I send out a minimum of 20 resumes a week for jobs that I am qualified and many more for jobs which I do not qualify. I could have told you a year ago we were in a recession. Help me find a job with a living wage and I'll bail myself out. A living wage for me is $48,000 a year. What is your living wage Rick?

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Eric, Berkeley, CA — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 15:26:44 GMT

I agree with you completely Rick!!!

I'm one of the 92% who has made my mortgage payment every month, even though as a small business owner my earnings last month were less than 25% of what I earned a year ago. I'm living on Mac n' Cheese and depleting my 401K I had been building for almost 20 years(which already is valued at less than 50% of what it was 2 years ago). Don't punish me and burden me for those who got themselves into trouble...or maybe aren't cutting back their livestyles...or aren't looking for a job as hard as they could. They are sitting on their couches watching Jerry Springer and I'm supposed to pay for it?

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Linda Marie Sterling, Augusta, GA — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 15:30:31 GMT

Why are we electing Rick Santelli to be the fall guy? Letting him take all the heat for millions of us that are so frustrated with these daily "bailout" proposals from this radical government administration we have been cursed with? And how on earth is it George Bush and the Republicans that got us into this mess? Use your brain! It is all our money.It is just that the Republican party believes in trying to give us a fraction of it back in tax relief and this new liberal and radical government administration believes in us paying the way for those that do nothing but look for government programs to live off of, buy houses they can not afford and eat food bought with our tax money. May God have mercy on our country.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Todd Kummer, Madison, WI — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 15:31:17 GMT

Talk is cheap and ranting to appeal to lesser emotions is even cheaper. Responsible action is what we need right now. The news media should responsibly criticize, but this crosses the line into destructive emotional baiting. I think the media should help America get through this very difficult period in a positive manner not a destructive manner. Lastly, I would like to hear Mr. Santelli's proposal to solve the financial and housing problem. Then we will see his true character and intellect and there would be something worthy of discussion on TV.
PS. Mr. Santelli would do well to show respect for those he is debating and give them time to talk without being interrupted.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Donna, Oak Lawn, IL — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 15:32:27 GMT

Nice Job Santelli! We pay our bills, work hard every day and are responsible with our spending. Recently my husband's hours have been cut, our taxes are through the roof. (Cook County, IL)We've taken away all our childrens activities to get by, who's helping us? Most of these people are living beyond their means and not responsible with their money, why must we pay for it? Who's going to help us when the middle class is at the bottom and no ones left to help? Just incase Obama isn't aware $14.00 a week just doesn't cut it. Enough is Enough, stop rewarding these stupid people.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Rebecca, Vancouver, WA — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 15:33:14 GMT

The message hits right at home. I work but my hours have been cut. Me and my family are struggling pay check to pay check to make ends meet. Here you talk about sacrafice for us that are still working and have homes, where do we have the money to do so?? How much have the people in that 8% sacraficed? Do they still have cell phones, cable, cars and other luxeries?? They should be turning that stuff off if they cannot afford their house. Why should we have to pay for that? I think everyone should get help. If the government was smart about this, it would start with the people. Why give the money to companies, for example dealerships, if americans cannot afford to buy? The government just wasted that money for cars to be built and just sit. How long is it going to take to get this right?

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

F. Thompson — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 15:34:00 GMT

The facts speak for themselves. 92% of homeowners pay their mortgage. Why should anybody be forced to sacrifice? Wouldn't that be the opposite of sacrifice? The sacrifice that Matt Lauer and so many Obama supporters are willing to make is commendable. Why do you need legislation to make you sacrifice? Why do you want to force everyone to believe they way you do? What do you do with your neighbor who is in foreclosure? Matt, use your right to choose and bail out your neighbor on your own. Set an example and maybe people will follow. Maybe they could somehow encourage us to help our neighbor, like a tax break for a "charitable donation" for what we give to our neighbor.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

D.Mellentine — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 15:37:13 GMT

My husband lost his job as an automotive engineer in Michigan in November. We bought our house and the loan, after down payment, was one fifth of what we had qualified for by the lender after the closing costs and down payment. We were told we qualified for a million dollar loan. We had already been through a 3 year round of unemployment and partial employment from downsizing in the auto industry from 2004 and had barely saved our home from foreclosure then. We had used all of our 401k and savings, we sold our personal belongings and I’ve sold pencils to save our home. I am disabled and haven’t worked in years. I don’t have enough credit hours to qualify for disability. There isn't a single item in our home that was put on a credit card - we don't use them. Our 10 year old truck had 250,000 miles on it and we had just replaced it because the repairs were going to be too costly. There isn’t a single item in my home that was purchased on a credit card. If we couldn’t pay cash for it – we didn’t buy it, including the new furnace we had to buy because the old one was red tagged shortly before my husband lost his job. (so much for our buffer). In one week we will be in foreclosure. Unemployment does not cover our house payment. Chase is starting foreclosure proceedings the day after they lift their moratorium. We have been in constant contact with them since my husband was laid off. Our only option through them is to catch up the 3 payments we are late, completely, plus the payment that will be due the first week in March. No workout, no temporary stay. No deferment. They will not accept anything less. We totally understand that something has to be done about the economy and my husband isn’t working. He isn’t working because of the housing crisis. He’s looking for work, anything, we just ran out of time. The point is the bankers who created this situation will be bailed out – they’re “Too big to fail”. The people who didn’t buy their homes smart or right, will be bailed out. They have cost millions of Americans their jobs and soon their homes with their greed and it was greed. What is totally outrageous is that when my husband finally does find work, we will have lost everything. If your credit is bad you can’t rent and with a foreclosure you have bad credit. The most egregious thing about this is we will then be handed a bill to pay for the banks and foolish or fooled homeowners. Guess they weren’t so foolish after all were they? The real fool here is us and the millions of other families like us. With all of the millions of new homes hitting foreclosure behind job losses – how are President Obama and our other elected officials going to stop the bleeding. It’s going to get ugly.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Kate, Portland, OR — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 15:37:51 GMT

I'm out raged by Rick Santelli's RANT - it's uninformed and completely selfish. Santelli makes it sound like the American’s who have been paying their mortgages will not be helped – completely untrue! Finally we have something that will help all Americans. The reason we are in this mess is because Americans – even responsible ones – have had reasons why they are in trouble. I’m an active real estate agent in Portland, OR – one of the last markets hit by foreclosure and rising rapidity in the ranks – from #13 in December to #5 in January for the States with the most foreclosed homes. It’s effective use all. I have a client who was relocated for his job – he paid over $500,000 for his home 2.5 years ago and planned on staying for many years – today, we he cannot sell his home because of the foreclosures that surround his house. We have had to take a price reduction to $395,000 hoping we get an offer. Here’s a person who did nothing wrong. He’s still paying his mortgage but in order to sell now he is either going to be in “Short Sale” or he’ll have to come to the table with $100,000+ for closing. Is that fair Rick Santelli? Now this new legislation is not going to help him but if it would have been passed six months or a year ago, it would have because the homes around him wouldn’t have been pulling down his values.

Another scenario, there are a number of Americans still paying their mortgages, 92% but there are a number of those home owners who are in funny adjustable loans that are coming due but due to whatever circumstances cannot refinance – I have a friend who’s wife left him, leaving him with the house and the mortgage to pay, he can’t refinance because he can’t qualify alone – he’s paying his mortgage every month because he knows that’s what he has to do but when his arm comes due he’ll be in deep trouble. I know other people in the same situations, they’ve lost their jobs or other life changing events – they are still current but what are they going to do. Up until now, home owners have had to go into default to get any support, this new legislation is going to help people before that happens and therefore, before it affects their neighbor’s home values. I’m sorry Mr. Santelli – this IS everyone’s problem and you’re right, the market is indicating so! People who live in glass houses shouldn’t throw stones – would hate to see what happens if you lost your job right now, how many months could you last before you found yourself in a tough situation too?

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Ron Evans , Cody, Wyoming — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 15:39:32 GMT

The solution!!! bring back assumable loan mortgages,
raise the minnimum wage to $10.00 hr.
cap the salry of officials in public owned companies to $500,000.00 yearly. and a tax of 10% across the board.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

RB - Indy IN — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 15:40:03 GMT

I think Mr. Santelli and his Wall Street/Bank buddies caused this mess. They already have their bailout...that's why they are cheering on the trading floor. He will be making money wearing that $1000 suit while things fall and make money on the way back up at taxpayer expense. He has manage to deflect the issues for the "working people" and needs to see the bigger picture or at least see the "other side" before he opens his mouth. For me, I have a house that I could pay for until I got laidoff. Fixed rate and a 30 year mortgage. Now I am living on savings, job hunting, up for sale and on the slow road to foreclosure. I was responsible while the greedy corporate raiders tanked the country.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

G Lucas — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 15:43:50 GMT

Why do you show all the negative, dramatic "talking heads" such as Santelli- stop reporting everything negative. Give the economic programs a chance to work. Give Obama a chance. Give the economy a chance to get back.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Dolores Flynn, Athol, ID — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 15:44:07 GMT

Way to go Rick Santelli!!! We not only need a Chicago Tea Party, we need an American Tea Party - time to get rid of the lying, greedy politicians!!! Why do we not see the cameras out on main street in towns across America asking the American public our feelings about the mess the politicians and wall street have gotten us into. Why are we not seeing some heads roll??? I have been seeing newscasts showing fraud throught our political system, yet none of them have been held accountable. Lets get the AMERICAN TEA PARTY started!!!!

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Sarah, Milford, PA — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 15:44:51 GMT

Rick Santelli is right on!!!!! I'm in the 92% of which he speaks...the average "Joe." I don't live beyond my means, I pay my bills, I am active in local politics, support my country.....and I say "NO BAIL OUTS FOR PEOPLE LIVING FAT, OVERINDULGENT, GREEDY, LIFESTYLES WHICH THEY CAN'T AFFORD......let them live in an apartment...like so many of us....and dwell upon how their actions have burdened the rest of us. As for the foreclosed house next to mine.....well I can't sell my house for what it is worth right now anyway....so why should that be of concern to me....eventually someone will buy it...I also can't believe that we are bailing out Car Companies, who saw the writing on the wall over thirty years ago about the NONRENEWABLE RESOURCE "OIL." They are as guilty as the OIL MONGERS in this country for the wars we are now fighting, and the lives the world is losing, to keep us in petroleum!!! So, I say how about an across the board break for us 92% on our mortage rates....bring everybodies rate down one to two points....this puts more money in our pockets so that we can pay our bills, shop, and stimulte the economy...as far as the antiquated car companies, let them go belly up...but provide an income, an education, and "new" jobs for those of us who will lose jobs beacuse these businesses have played into the hands of the OIL MONGERS!!!!!

Yes....let the people vote on how the stimulus monies should be spent.....I just don't know how much more the shoulders of "John Q. Public" can take before our entire middle class.....that keeps this great country running....collapses!!!!!

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Vernetta A. Myers — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 15:49:53 GMT

Today Show,

I to turned on your program to see this loud mouth basically inciting a riot. Of course he is on the trading floor, inciting the traders to response to mob mentality attitude. The traders, wall street, investment bankers and mortgage houses are the ones who profited from many homeowners who are not facing financial straights, whether it be job lose, the inability to pay their mortgage, etc. Did this "expert" of finance yell and scream when Bush and Congress "agreed" to bail out the "big guys,", the ones who made millions money for many of his friends from many now financially strapped homeowners. Now that President Obama has the severe responsilibity to take hold of this horrible financial "crisis," and help assist U.S. citizens, everyone is screaming. This Santelli constantly interrupted others who were "attempting" to respond to his ongoing yelling questions. He is an embarrassment. I had to turn to Channel 8 and was able to listen and understand two financial woman discussing the same situation in a more respectful and intelligent tone.
Vernetta A. Myers, Santee, San Diego County, CA

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Lori Claypool, Jefferson City, MO — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 15:49:56 GMT

I am a single mom who was a victim of identity fraud. My credit score hit rock bottom and has now finally reached 680. During this time I have purchased a home and property. I have NEVER been late on a mortage payment, utility payment, car payment. I can't refinace at a lower interest rate secondary to Freddie and Sallie now requiring scores of 720 OR deep penalties. What about me? I don't want a bailout I just want fairness. It is not right that I have sacrificed yet can't take advantage of things like lower interest rates. Maybe I should default on my loans and let the system bail me out. This may work against all of us.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

D Vashey, Panama City, Fl. — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 15:51:22 GMT

Thank you, Mr. Santelli finally someone is speaking up about this...I'll gladly send my mortgage to the government to be paid off, right now! Think about this: there are so many restrictions for the 8% to qualify for this bailout money. Two that make no sence at all: 1. You can't be behind on payments! (da,your in foreclose!) 2. You have to have a good(700)Fico score (who has that to begin with?), you tell me, if your home is in forecloser your already sunk!!! So WHO is going to get this MONEY??? Besides that YOU HAVE TO HAVE A JOB!!!!! Most of the people that this money WAS to help, can't qualify. So just let us (the 92%) send in our mortgages to be paid off.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Michele, Virginia Beach, VA — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 15:51:24 GMT

Rick Santelli is a hero. You know it is what everyone has been thinking and finally someone has stepped up to the plate and said it, not just outloud but on national news and he nailed it on the head.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Jill Herring, Blue Bell PA — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 15:51:52 GMT

Rick Santelli of CNBC express what the media has suppressed - including MSNBC --- this OBAMA promise of FALSE hope and change is populist and socialist. GO RICK SANTELLI AND RESPONSIBLE AMERICANS EVERYWHERE!

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Gary Holcomb, Pismo Beach, CA — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 15:53:32 GMT

Mr. Santelli is just like the rest of those money grubbers that are looking out only for the rich and well-to-do. Maybe there are some that will benefit from President Obama's housing rescue plan who don't deserve it, but that will be few and far between. The main focus has got to be on the economy and the country as a whole. That's what Santelli doesn't get. He claims he understands that we all must make sacrifices, but just not him or "his group." When Matt Lauer brilliantly asked "What should people be doing about this? Santelli responded like most of the complainers and pessimist by saying "Aaaah, Aaaah, More Debate." What? When asked to offer a solution, (He had his chance) his response was just like the other party-of-No-Republicans, they just argue that it won't work. What will work? They don't have a clue, but if Obama thought of it (to quote the great spokesman Elmer Fudd) "Be Afwaid, Be very Afwaid!

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

V Bridges, Fort Worth, TX — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 15:55:06 GMT

Since ARMs seem to have caused much of this mess, why not do away with them. For those who have them already just reset them to a fixed rate that is reasonable and reflects the current rates?
Also when someone loses their job, give them 6 to 12 months to find a job or sell their house during which they pay a reduced amount.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Ned — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 16:03:06 GMT

Corrections:

Rick Santelli has not been silent on the bank bailouts. He was against them too.

Rick Santelli was not the one DOING the interrupting on The Today Show.

Rick Santelli was the one BEING interrupted on The Today Show.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

K.McCullo — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 16:10:58 GMT

I am a nurse. And the only haves I have are the ones I worked and paid for. Rick Santelli did speak out for me AND SO MANY LIKE ME. We are not big wig corporate executives. We work hard every day, pay taxes, and pay our bills on time. We have morals, a strong sense of personal responsibility, and a strong work ethic. If we don't have the money for something, WE DON'T BUY IT. I'M OUTRAGED AT WASHINGTON'S SPENDING RIGHT NOW.

Here is another thought. It's a quote from The late great preacher Dr. Adrian Rogers (1931 to 2005)

"You cannot legislate the poor into freedom by legislating the rich out of freedom. What one person receives without working for, another person must work for without receiving. The government cannot give to anybody anything the government does not first take from somebody else. When half of the people get the idea that they do not have to work because the other half is going to take care of them, and when the other half gets the idea that it does no good to work because somebody else is going to get what they work for, that my dear friend is about the end of any nation.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Mary Stinnett — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 16:19:14 GMT

I do not agree with the housing bailout or the bank bail out or any other bailout. We have a small business it has been scarey all winter and no we can't afford to pay anyone elses bills. Yes I would stand with you with reguard to the housing bailout in Chicago.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Virginis Foreman, Kimberton, PA 19460 — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 16:21:46 GMT

I saw Mr. Santelli's comments from the Chicago Stock Exchange and frankly I thought that he destroyed any seriousness of his debate with his theatrics. It is good to have open debate with both sides being heard but frankly you couldn't hear the other gentleman because of Mr. Santelli's ranting. My hustand and I are retired and living on a fixed income; however we still have compassion for the families who have lost their jobs and are struggling to keep their medical insurance, food on the table and their children in school, as well as a roof over their heads. Having worked as a volunteer at a food closet at our church, I know first hand that there are honest people who are caught in a bind and have to scrape and struggle until the can find employment. These are well-educated, upper middle class families who have spent their savings trying to keep their heads above water waiting for the job market to improve. In my opinion, Mr. Santelli's carrying on made him seem arrogant Giving his ridiculous ranting from the floor of the stock exchange destroyed any credibility and respect one might have had for his honest opinions. The folks behind him are making excessive amounts of money at a time when many are losing their jobs, and to many of the hard-working middle class they represent part of the greed that has enveloped this country.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Ann Martin — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 16:22:05 GMT

Rick is totally right on this topic. Matt Lauer did a terrible interview and was so biased . Get the facts straight and understand that America - 92% of us do not want this and let President Obama know along with Congress. We will be going to Chicago this summer if not.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Randy, Kimberly, Idaho — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 16:24:03 GMT

I agree to what a lot of people said.

First we bail out banks, then auto makers, now the people. The only thing that all have in common is they made poor decisions or greed for their home life or business. Why should everyone that pays taxes, pay for the already rich, or the ones that can not afford their homes? I feel the government has been in this group all along - they are rich and making poor decisions. Some of them are making decisions for the sole purpose of greed. The money already spent, and the money to be spent by the government will only help the rich. At least that is where it will end up. For the money that has not made it to the rich yet, it will eventually by the ones spending on what they do not have.
Personally I feel that the goverment should of gave this money back to the people, at least if they wanted to stimulate the economy and be fair.
If the goverment gave this money to the people they could pay bills, invest, or spend it on the things that they need or want. This includes the rich and poor. In all ways this would stimulate the economy. Only this way would the government be treating every one equally. Too late.
The government now has let the ceo's, executives and owners walk away with millions on saleries, bonuses and stock options. So far all the billions of dollars spent have not helped the average american, but the well off. As the saying goes, the richer get richer and the poor get poorer. This includes the ones in state and national government.
After all is said and done the business and homeowners that make bad choices, will agian make bad choices. So what, we will bail them out agian and agian. Where is all this money going? I am surelly not seeing any of it.
I am not saying I could do any better if I was in a govenment role. I am saying that they should help everyone equally. This money is from everyones taxes and should go to everyone. If the wealthy wanted more of the taxes they should pay more of the taxes. Actually we should go to a flat tax, where everyone pays on what they earn. This would be equal too, which is why the government has not yet done it. We then could get ride of a lot of other taxes. I get taxed on my income, then taxed on anything I buy, and agian taxed on what I sell. Wait, I am not done. Then I get taxed on my retirement savings,and ah-yes I almost forgot, then my kids will get taxed on what I may leave them. This should take about everything I have, and actually on some people it does.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Tom M. Escalante, UT — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 16:24:39 GMT

Rick,
I LOVE your point BUT I have another thought for you to ponder
. Lets say "WE", meaning the responsible ones who are going to pay in more ways than one,, help out that 8%. Lets pretend that the ones we help out hold onto their houses for say 10 years, sell the house and make a hefty profit. Will "WE" see ANY portion of it. THINK about that!!!
This has been a really good lesson for the wining public who DO NOT take responsibility for their actions. Hire an attorney, lets sue, it's not my fault John-Q-Public!!!

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

jknipp — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 16:27:46 GMT

I am tired of bad behavior being rewarded. Working class people, like my family, do not really ever get "rewarded" with a break for paying the bills that we have: mortgages, credit cards.,etc. Where I live mobile homes are numerous. Interest rates for their mortgage is outrageous, as is mine and mine husband's.
We will be able to refinance at half the interest rate we currently have for good behavior, for making our payments and not being in forclosure. No we will not. Will someone wipe away credit card debt for making your payments on time. No! I am tired of bailing everyone out. And since I own a mobile home if the person who lives next to me is forclosed on it will not matter. Because according to the banks my house is worthless anyway.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

David Lowe, Colorado Springs, Colorado — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 16:28:12 GMT

Please help me to understand why it's OK to bail out coporations that have been run into the ground by human behavior of CEO's and stock holders.

Corporations are only a piece of paper, its actions are human controled. But when we come to individuals displaying the same qualities we rant and rave about their conduct.

Personaly I feel that CNBC should fire Mr. Santelli, or at least suspend him without pay and let him visit the people that in his arrogance he belittles.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Marianne Martin, Sunriver, Or — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 16:28:47 GMT

It takes three NBC guys to take on Rick. Rick Santelli, has always been the smartest commentator on CNBC. I challenge anyone to understand and comment on the bond market everyday. I can't wait to join Rick in Chicago this summer. Buying a house is an investment and sometimes investments don't payoff, but don't expect the 92% of us to pay for their misfortune. It is already clear we need the throw out this clueless administration in 2012.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Susan Burleson — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 16:28:55 GMT

Rick Santelli is saying the things that should be said on all the major news networks. Way to go Rick! We need more sensible, unbiased reporters like him. Americans need to get real about their finances and start spending within their means. People who are paying their mortgages and bills should not be "sacrificing" and picking up the slack for losers who overextended themselves with houses they could not afford.

Sorry people-if you make $50,000 a year-you shouldn't have gotten a $350,000 adjustable rate mortgage because you thought the rates wouldn't go up or better yet; an interest only loan because you thought you could sell the house for $500,000 in 2 years.

The bottom line is greedy,stupid people thought they were going to get rich quick and got loans for houses they couldn't afford and now they want to stick it to the rest of us taxpayers. On the flip side, Janet Reno & the Clinton gang threatened banks with fines/audits if banks didn't make mortgage loans to low-income people without the means to afford the homes in the first place.

Now the "brilliant" solution is tax everyone to death and just keep printing more money. This is great-we can just keep devaluing our currency. The problem is the countries like China that we borrow money from now want to borrow money for themselves. What is going to happen when there is no country to borrow money from to finance our bailouts and spending sprees?

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Jeannine Saunders — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 16:38:03 GMT

AMEN!!!!! PLEASE RUN FOR CONGRESS !!!!!!! RICK SANTELLI IS RIGHT ON!!!! THIS HOUSING MESS IS THE FAULT OF THOSE WHO DIDN'T LEARN ABOUT ECONOMICS IN SCHOOL AND BOUGHT WHAT THEY COULDN'T AFFORD!!!! DO NOT ASK THE REST OF THE COUNTRY TO GIVE UP WHAT WE HAVE WORKED SO HARD FOR AND LIVED WITHIN OUR MEANS!!!! IN THE REAL WORLD WE ARE LOSING INDUSTRY AND JOBS, RETIREMENTS AND INVESTMENTS THE GOVERNMENT IS REWARDING THE WRONG BEHAVIOR!!!!!! SANTELLI FOR PRESIDENT 2012!!!!!!!!!!!!

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Derrick L, Sterling, VA — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 16:48:46 GMT

If the goverment is giving billions of dollars to the auto and banking industries why should'nt they give the american people money.I think that all americans should get atleast $250,000 and that will help stimulate the economy.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

IJim Watts, Missoula, Montana — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 16:48:58 GMT

Unfortunately, in a free market system where regulation is a repulsive notion there is no legal recourse for punishing bad behavior. In theory bad behavior is inherently punished by (and only by) the market's adverse reaction. But how does the market punish representatives of the government and the media who are paid big bucks to package 'bad behavior' as 'Patriotic Duty'? The Constitution protects their right to free speech so, there is no legal recourse to their behavior.

The other question that came to me from this morning's brief debate was this - If 92% of home owners are making their mortgage payments on time, that means only 8% are failing to meet their payments on time. If our economic system is so tenuous that only 8% of one fraction of the overall economy can bring it to its knees, shouldn't we be re-evaluating the overall structure of the economy? Or, are we really just trying to avoid allowing the current economic crisis to resolve the fundamental debate that has plagued this country since before it was formed - to regulate, or not to regulate?

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Rebeldude — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 17:12:06 GMT

Hey! Fair is Fair. I didn't get to vote on Bushes bull, so you can't vote on OBamas

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Valerie, Dallas, TX — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 17:23:32 GMT

I certainly agree with most of what I heard from Mr. Santelli this morning (I was getting ready for WORK and didn't get to see the full segment) What is wrong with this whole picture? Childrearing 101- REWARDING BAD BEHAVIOR PROMOTES BAD BEHAVIOR. While it is a GREAT idea for every American to own a home because it provides property tax revenues, promotes personal pride, etc.; there has to be some personal responsibility for buying more than you can afford. This housing mess started BEFORE all these layoffs started, so you can't say it's because of the recent job losses. And my prayers do go out to ANYONE who has lost their job recently. But if I had bought a 200K-300K home, I may need help paying for it also, but I HAVE ALWAYS BOUGHT WHAT I COULD AFFORD. And WHO changed the laws to put these people in these homes they could not afford? Let's hold these morons accountable that have caused this unholy mess instead of just handing over hard-working American tax dollars back to them. That's like giving your kid a lollypop after they just got caught stealing one at the store. And these CEO's making 6 figures then getting million dollar bonuses...NO ONE works hard enough to make that much money. As I'm sure are many others, I am tired of working day after day, year after year, seeing much of my tax dollars going towards these ridiculous bail-outs to corporations that have been making millions/billions, splurging on jets, bonuses, company-sponsored get-aways, etc. AND paying taxes for people on "disability" that I see out & about at play and working side jobs for cash. AND paying taxes for girls to have babies for free THEN they get extra money back on their taxes for EARNED INCOME CREDIT when many times are not even the ones raising these children. Welfare, food stamps, FEMA, free school lunches...these are great TEMPORARY tools that people should certainly use while they get back on their feet. They were not designed to be a WAY OF LIFE. I love this country and believe it is our duty to pay taxes, but not for this kind of mess. WHO is going to pay for this when the overworked (those who still have jobs) middle class who is shouldering most of the tax burden, die off? We certainly won't be retiring anytime soon BECAUSE OUR 401K's are GONE and I'm sure social security will be also, but we may just die from the BURDEN OF IT ALL. I sincerely doubt/hope the up-coming generation will be as gullible as we have been.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Anne, Fairview Heights, IL — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 17:32:41 GMT

I was really disgusted with Mr. Santelli's diatribe. No, I don't want to pay my neighbor's mortgage, but neither do I want his property forclosed on so roaches and rats invade my property and uncut grass lowers the value of my property. People who are so against President Obama's plan are exhibiting the same shortsidedness, selfishness, and greed which got us into this mess in the first place. What happened to the good old American value of helping your neighbor?

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Miguel N. of Braselton, Georgia — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 17:36:21 GMT

Rick is dead on!!!

Maybe it's time to start a recall effort on the "New Socialist" leaders: Obama, Pelosi & Reid.

This is America where we recognize the right of "Life, Liberty and the Pursuit of Happiness."

Prosperity, comfort, individual success is not guaranteed. ANY investment involves risk.

Where is my bail out for my IRA's & 401K that have lost 50% of their value since the democrats took over both houses TWO YEARS AGO!!!

Where do I buy my "Rick for President" T shirt?

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Roy Crawford Plainfield, Ind — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 17:37:53 GMT

I normally watch Fox News where the commentators and news people have "Guts" to say what they beleive and know to be truthful and factual, it was refreshing to see someone on NBC (Rick Santini) that is in that mode, and does not always follow the old liberal crap.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

DM, Huntington, WV — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 17:42:29 GMT

2/20/2009

I have worked all my life and have responsibly paid my bills. I had well-managed lupus for 20 years until I was rear-ended and my head hit the headrest popping fragile blood vessels much like shaken baby syndrome. I am now disabled and retired from a job I loved due to too many ailments to mention following the resulting stroke. I can no longer drive and am dependent on others for transportation. The auto insurance paid me approximately $6000.00 of which half went to the attorney. The auto insurance's computer program indicated that since my airbag did not deploy, I could not have possibly been injured. I was wearing my seatbelt. My medical bills have been astronomical.

Also, I had carried long-term disability insurance for the last approximately 10 years to the tune of $76.00 every two weeks. The disability insurance company paid the compensation for approximately 12 months until the social security began. Now the disability insurance company has ceased paying the compensation and is claiming that I owe them money paid during the time social security was being debated. They can deduct 50% but not 100% according to their own rules to which they admit. I had to hire an attorney for the social security, pay living expenses and medical bills during this time. It used up all my savings. I now have an attorney working on the disability insurance company's bad faith. Believe me, I am not profiting from any help the government might give me!

Where was this joker, Rick Santelli, and his histrionics when the Wall Street people, banks, insurance companies, finance companies, take-over artists, and others of their ilk such as him were creating the economic mess we are in today and screaming for money to pay their bonuses? What an arrogant fool he is! Does he really think we are all that stupid?

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Cheryl Ande, Berwick, PA — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 17:45:12 GMT

I will never watch this man again. This morning's appearance on the Today show was neither a debate or a discussion it was a man shouting over anybody who tried to talk to him. So I gather Santelli's philosophy would be if you see a drowning man don't save him, if he was stupid enough to get in the water, let him drown. Lets hope those agree with Santelli never go to the beach with him.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Lois, Knoxville, TN — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 17:52:43 GMT

Rick Santelli is just another fast talking Republican trying to stir up folks with a nonissue. I am one who has paid my mortgage on time and will continue to do so. President Obama is trying to jumpstart home sales again and helping people stay in their homes who didn't know what they were doing doesn't offend those of us who are fortunate enough to still have jobs and have the ability to pay our mortgages. What is the crime in his plan for heaven sakes? It is more than the Republican party did for 8 years, while they quietly stole everyone's money and kept them occupied with emotional issues like abortion and gun control. Hey Santini - we are not stupid out here!

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Jim, St. Paul, MN — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 17:56:36 GMT

Santelli should be fired!! He is one of the Wall Street elite who doesn't understand the impact of what he screams about like Chicken Little. I own a small business, and my customers are calling to cancel orders because they have heard (from loud mouthed idiots like Santelli) that the financial sky is falling. So, eventually my business will fail, I will eliminate the five jobs my people have (three of whom pay mortgages, btw), and they will add to the default problem. At least Obama and his team are DOING SOMETHING!! Too bad the fat cats and Republicans are doing their best to try to make him fail so they can get back into power that they finally lost. I think Rush Limbaugh would love to hire Rick - he makes Rush's job really easy.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Leigh Gathright, Tulsa, OK — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 18:00:24 GMT

Praises for Rick Santelli!!! He nailed it when he said, "We have to teach people how to fish instead just handing them the fish!!" I am all for helping my neighbor find a rental house or an apartment while they work on their plan, but I am NOT for rewarding the irresponsible that got in over their heads when they knew they really couldn't afford to live in the houses they were living in!!! Rick Santelli...rock on..you our our mouthpiece to those of us that are fed up!!

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Peter Yankala Barrington, IL — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 18:05:55 GMT

Hey renew Rick Santelli's contract, in fact give him a raise. The first reporter to call it like IT IS. A little more Rick -a lot less government.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Bronwyn, Mendocino CA — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 18:12:45 GMT

Of course Santelli is cheered by traders and other greedy, self serving folks. They created the trillion dollar deficit. My husband and I paid off our mortgage after 25 yrs in Jan. If we had help others stay in their homes we are happy to help. We have 38 years as teachers in public schools in CA. We don't look for the quick profit or the quick solution. We do look ethics and honesty, found in average people, not profit driven traders. It was fine to help banks and CEOs, but "wrong" to help American who were duped by brokers and bankers. Shame on Santelli and hooray for the Americans who elected Obama and believe if we work together we can renew America.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Susan Harrison — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 18:15:43 GMT

Thank you Rick. Those of us who purchased homes well within our price range worked 6 and 7 days a week. Paid our mortgage off early, while watching neighbors go by in their new cars to their bigger homes and take big vacations apprciate his words. We never moved to a bigger home because we didn't believe the price was correct (even though they asked the big price and someone came along and bought it), you see we used our head and said society was wrong. Now I'm supposed to help save these thoughtless, greedy people. I am mad as hell!
Once again...thanks Rick.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Hallie, Miami, FL — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 18:17:41 GMT

Rick, I could not agree with you more. The government simply cannot reward irresponsible behavior. It is an injustice to the rest of us Americans who have worked very hard to get where we are today. Nobody threatened these homeowners to buy homes they could not afford. You have to look out for yourself and know what you are signing. In what universe does a $20,000/year salary qualify you for a $350,000 home? The math just does not add up. I refuse to be penalized for others' mistakes. Thank you, Rick for giving us financially upstanding citizens a voice!

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

DeeDee, Nipomo, CA — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 18:18:23 GMT

People need to realize that Wall Street is not just the rich. It is all companies who employ and all citizens who have savings and 401K's. It is even people who buy products from these companies or put food on the table. Rick should have his tea party on April 15 and most of the Caleefornians who just got their taxes raised again (to pay for all those Octomoms) yesterday will be there in full force.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

RG — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 18:27:28 GMT

LOL It's so funny that the Walt Street people are talking about fairness. They are greedy, money driven, and work there because they want to be ahead of the others. And they want the government to be fair? They were buying and selling the financial products they knew would bring the system down. Stop crying. Your actions speak louder than your words. It's disgusting.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Janice, Fort Worth, Texas — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 19:02:37 GMT

WAKE UP AMERICA!!! These incidents didn't just happen. IT'S BEEN A COLD,HARD PLAN THAT'S BEEN ON THE DRAWING BOARD FOR A LONG TIME. LIBERALS WANT TO MAKE SURE THAT THEY NEVER LOSE POWER AGAIN!!! THAT'S WHY REPUBLICANS, CONSERVATIVES, ETC. ARE UNDER SUCH STRONG ATTACK. IF WE DON'T JOIN TOGETHER AND STOP THIS MADNESS NOW, OUR CHILDREN WILL NEVER KNOW THE GREAT UNITED STATES OF AMERICA! PLEASE DON'T LET THIS ADMINISTRATION'S AND BIAS MEDIA'S FEAR TACTICS KEEP YOU FROM STANDING UP FOR OUR COUNTRY. IF YOU DON'T WANT TO KEEP AMERICA FREE AND CAPITALIST - GET ON A PLANE AND GO FIND YOUR UTOPIA!

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Tom-Tom — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 19:08:41 GMT

How's this for a solution. Demand that the banks, who
gave these loans under pressure from the Democratic led Congress who forced these loans onto naive individuals, DO NOT ADJUSTED THE RATES on those mortgages which were given to those people but freeze or resturct the loans to be fixed rate mortgagtes.
All I can say is "SORRY A-HOLE" to those investors who are being subsidized for there losses (YOU TOOK THE RISK - WE DIDN'T). And don't think that those people who have MONEY TO INVEST aren't influencing those in Washington. By the way barack - get your ass off the campaign for the next election and do your job.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Art Jaquez, Blanco, NM — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 19:40:11 GMT

Time to fire this Wall Street fat cat moron. What he did was akin to the idiocy of George W Bush when he, in effect, went on National television and screamed fire in a crowded theater.

Nothing could be more irresponsible, and I hold Mr Santelli personally responbsible for much of the loss in today's stock market. This kind of partisan rant from a newsman has no place on a news program and he should be fired immediately.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Leigh Gathright, Tulsa, OK — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 19:43:12 GMT

Rick Santelli is the greatest person in this country right now!!!Keep that loud mouth moving. You speak for the responsible parties that have not gotten in over their heads and have been good stewards of their paychecks.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Chris B, Raleigh, NC — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 19:53:32 GMT

I would start watching MSNBC everyday if Rick Santelli was on!

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Stan Steen — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 19:59:02 GMT

About 92% of mortgage payors are keeping up their payments. The Obama Administration is looking to bail-out the 8% who can't keep up payments. Most people bought within their means and are managing because of it. There's always been a small percent that've bought in excess of their means. It's nothing new, even in view of a depressed financial market. It'll unravel by itself without any massive government interference. There will be some pain. Life is not painless. This government isn't going to stimulate the economy with its faulty plan.It saw an opportunity to initiate longed for spending programs and the "Stimulus" is loaded more with spending pork than any kind of stimulus. The new government has already incurred three times the debt that the previous adminstration did when the market tanked in the last two months of Bush's term in office.And, there's more coming! Rick Santelli has the courage to sound off, despite the fact that such expression is atypical of NBC.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

amdriven2liv, Medford, Oregon — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 20:00:02 GMT

The house next door is foreclosed! Great!!!!!!!!! The people couldn't afford the thing. I say, let that house next door to me sell for .30 cents on the dollar! I don't care!!! I'm not SELLING!!!!! Haven't planned on SELLING! The market will come back.

Once that house next door sells as a foreclosure, a year from now Realtors can't use it as a value indicator for a new listing in my area! they have to use a sale that was in the last six months! It wont show up!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Also, if this plan reduces the Principle, this will also reduce the value of properties around them. A new mortgage will be listed in the county records as a sale! So, for the rest of the time I live next door to these people, I will be pissed every time I see them buy something new! Let alone knowing I AM PAYING FOR THEIR MORTGAGE!!!!!

And once these foreclosures hit bottom, the quicker they will sell. Heck, I may want to buy it!

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Paula in Lake Wylie SC — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 20:02:15 GMT

Hey Rick- We stand with you and we will be with you in Grant Park in July.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Average hardworking Debbie — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 20:13:47 GMT

Keep up the good work!! So many of us in REAL America agree with you. Myself & all I have spoken with are AVERAGE america, not the wealthy. We just have a better sense of values & were taught we get what we WORK for not the ever popular hand out. I have been listening to all of those who want to "give a helping hand" i.e. handout, but so far have NOT heard any specific criteria. Why? Then the rude, name making wannabe wants to critice YOU?? COME ON!

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Nancy , Wayne, NJ — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 20:44:20 GMT

Rick Santelli for President --he's my man ....Go Rick!!!
Thanks for speaking the truth -something not heard much on NBC !!

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Phillip F, Memphis, TN — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 20:47:30 GMT

Kudos to Rick!!!! Cannot put our country in further debt bailout a small percentage of homeowners who did not do the right thing and pay their bills. This stimulus package is nothing more than a spending bill to pay back Obama's supporters who got him to the presidency!!

THE COMMON PEOPLE OF THE UNITED STATES SHOULD HAVE VOTED ON THE STIMULUS BILL. WE CANNOT COUNT ON OUR CAREER POLITICIANS TO DO THE RIGHT THING.

ONE ANSWER TO POLITICIANS >>>>> TERM LIMITS!!!!!

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Barbara Gonzalez, Middletown, NJ — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 20:47:38 GMT

Wow, this is great! Finally I feel like I am not alone and crazy. Thank you Rick.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

M. Seastrand, Hollywood, MD — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 20:50:24 GMT

The adminstration's response to Rick Santelli is all wrong. I have never lived above my means and I may feel bad about my neighbor's mortgage problems but I should not have to bail them out. I don't care if the real estate values go down, I'm not going anywhere and if they go down enough I will apply to the county for a reduction in my real estate taxes.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Patricia D'Azzo, Clarks Summit PA — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 20:53:32 GMT

RICK SANTELLI FOR PRESIDENT!!!

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

J. Titus, Leesburg, Virginia — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 20:53:55 GMT

Rick, Finally a voice of reason outside of conservative talk show venue. You are absolutely right. You see, the plan is to take from all of us but the poor and overextended and make us poor, except for the Democrats whose names will probably mysteriously disappear from the Swiss bank lists.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Cary Collins, Middletown, NJ — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 21:00:17 GMT

I totally agree with you Mr. Santelli - it was so refreshing to hear - due to this frustration i am having lately. All liberals do is whine and they are whining some more along with the media! It gives me some sort of hope in this mess and it wasn't Wall Street people; it was the irresponsibility of homeowners who lied on applications and had no right owning a home in the first place they could not afford!!! Go Santelli!!!!!

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Joe, Middletown, NJ — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 21:05:06 GMT

Thank you Mr. Santelli!!! Do not listen to these socialist liberals - I'm sorry what kind of message does this send if people cannot pay their mortgage that they will wait for the government to bail them out in the future? This will never go away if this is the route we take.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Dave Middletown, NJ — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 21:06:34 GMT

I totally agree Mr. Santelli! We need a voice!

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Carmen Siragusa, Sycamore Il — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 21:18:26 GMT

It is so easy for people to blame Bush isn't it?? Let's not forget who's sitting easy in the White House right now! Who paid for his education to get there? What would people be saying if Bush hadn't reacted the way he did after the attack on us? Was he perfect, no but neither has anyone else. Come on people! We are supposed to be a democracy. Lately, with the lovely politics in Illinois and now this, I'm wondering where my system of checks and balances is? The american people who are in the majority and using their heads should not have to pay for those who didn't. How about a stimulum package deal that pays off all of the student loans for those of us who actually used it for education? I would certainly have some extra money to help with the economy then. Here's a new socialist idea. Lets have the rich people of america be the ones who have to actually worry about bailing everyone else out! Who's ever heard of a $500,000 bonus in my neck of the woods? Bottom line is, my family has worked very hard to have what we have. We've lived within our means and shopped for housing that we knew we could afford! Our country makes it too easy for people to live and just sit on their butts while the rest of us work! This is enough! I agree with the above statements. Homeowners, if this truly is what happens, let's revolt by not paying our current mortgage committments. That way, Obama and our grand government can continue to pull money from their but cracks to cover us all!!!!

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Lady Di, Tulsa, Oklahoma — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 21:27:39 GMT

I think I prefer tea also.
My new hero. Finally someone speaks for the people.
Move the date up for the tea party. I'll be there. July is to far away

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Melissa, Colorado Springs, Colorado — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 22:55:28 GMT

I am an up standing citizen and I pay my mortgage no matter how hard it is some months and I don't want to pay anyones mortgage but my own. However, why is it ok to bail out the bad banks that got us here and the auto industry as well. If we are making a habit of saving everyones A$$ then why are the american people less entitled. I think that all of us should get a break, you know we are ALL in this recession.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

jim Schererville In — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 22:59:23 GMT

Not only are we paying for these deadbeats houses, we also have to pay them INCENTIVES, five thousand dollars, so that they will pay for their mortgage in the future. But right, they're not irresponsible deadbeats.

Rick Santelli: Let Americans vote on Obama's housing plan

Mary, Whittier, CA — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 23:46:52 GMT

Thank you Rick!!!! Rick was right on. It was so good to hear. Please allow him more time to argue this point. While raising 3 kids my husband and I have never been late on a house payment. We have struggled and worked harder than most. We have done without the things that many others have. We have based our lives on principles. If we bail people out, the same mistakes will be made again in the future. Let the chips fall. Let the country rebuild on sound financial principles. It will be a solid foundation. Earn the money, then spend it.