Letter To Obama
"I sincerely and profusely apologize to you and your family for the email I forwarded," said Cebull's apology letter, which was dated March 1.
"I accept full responsibility; I have no one to blame but myself." Cebull said he requested that the Judicial Council of the Ninth Circuit review the situation.
"Honestly, I don't know what else I can do," Cebull wrote.
After reading something as disgusting as that e-mail concerning our President, it is fairly hard to give this guy a break, but I have to say that this letter sounds sincere to me. And it definitely sends a message to others who may feel they can openly disrespect the President without suffering a public backlash or private shaming.
Your thoughts?
I know what else you can do. You can RESIGN!
ReplyDeleteI so agree. About all I remember from college is my wonderful history prof saying "You can do anything you want [in office] until you get caught. Then, you resign." I just wish more people felt the same.
DeleteHe fails to even understand that the joke was sexist as well as racist. Suggesting that the woman doesn't remember the "party" when she got pregnant, and that her son is lucky that he isn't half dog and doesn't know why he is Black suggests that the woman has sex indiscriminantly. It like Rush calling the law student a slut.
DeleteThe judge deserves to lose his job, he can't be trusted making decisions about women or minorities.
It is what he should do and he is probably worried about his future, so he knows he has to. Now if only DisgustingRush would do the same, I would have some hope for this country. They both need to go and hide in a hole. March first was such a wonderful day and this month continues to be very, very not so good for the GOP. I still wonder if they all are not secret undercover agents for our side.
ReplyDeleteLol, I, too, wonder if Palin isn't a secret agent for the democratic party: she does nothing but help the democratic party, and I don't know what they would do without her. Many other extreme righties are performing this same function: making the democratic option look like what it truly is – a place of fairness for all, and the only sane adult in the room.
DeleteAs for the judge, one could surmise that his writing this letter was a superficial, self-serving gesture. While the apology 'seems' sincere, I refuse to believe that his views of democrats, black people, or other minorities have changed, or that any persons in any such groups could expect to receive full justice in his court. Like his right-wing cohorts in other positions of power, he appears to considers his own world-views as paramount to any oaths of office or the United States Constitution, and to be a person who will retract from that position only when caught.
The letterhead should be his first clue of what he should have done. He's a judge working for the Department of Justice which is part of the US Government. If he remembered who he was and who his employer was then he might not have had a brain fart leading to sending on an email that was racist and hateful and disgusting about the mother of the President. He can do as much covering his ass as he wants. I'm not letting him off the hook. This is nothing more than trying to seem remorseful when it doesn't change his thoughts or behaviors. He's no less a racists now than he was when he sent the email to his friends. Thankfully someone took enough umbrage to out him. Makes you wonder how many other judges do this shit and their friends don't forward it on where it can see the light of day. Makes me wonder how many other emails he's sent that were just as disrespectful but didn't get to the public. Man should be at least censured and even removed from the bench.
ReplyDeleteMy thoughts align with yours. Good post!
DeleteNo, he doesn't work for the Dept of Justice, an agency of the executive branch. He is a a judge of the United States District Court, judicial branch. Separation of powers and all that. He cannot be fired, but can be impeached by Congress.
DeleteAn old joke In the courtroom: What's the difference between God and District Court judge? Well, God doesn't think that He is a District Court judge.
Honestly, if he doesn't "know what else to do," he could start by resigning his post immediately, in shame and disgrace.
ReplyDeleteHe should be fired!!!! He's not just a judge, he's a federal judge. To find that joke funny in any sense of the word reveals the truth of his views. This country is having a major Arab Spring in every direction....by Nov, the sleeping masses better vote. The Republicans are really going for it...blacks, women...birth control? This better be the end of Rush, we finally got Beck off the air...that man is so disgusting. Finally Rachel made the point last night about not understanding birth control..something I was thinking all along. I hope everyone starts making that point to really show these men as total assholes. Let's attack their viagra, why should insurance pay for that???
ReplyDeleteSorry but he can resign. That is "what more he can do". Griffin I can't give this man any slack, he is a judge and should know better.
ReplyDeleteI agree that it's kinda difficult to give the man a pass, as whatever inside him that found such a "joke" amusing has to still exist.
ReplyDeleteThat said, how refreshing to see a rightwinger avoid the usual non-apology apology "if anyone was offended" crap, and just come out and say he effed up, owns up to it and straightforwardly says "I'm truly sorry." Well done, and thank you for sharing this. Have not seen your blog before, but it's now got an honored place in my bookmarks.
Paul, his initial public apology was just that -- if anyone was offended crap. That exposed him for a second time as being hugely racist. This letter to the President is his attempt of saving his own ass. Time to make an example - screw the investigation -- get rid of him. Evidence is there.
DeleteHe sits on a bench making life decisions for citizens. He can't orchestrate his own life so shouldn't be able to decide for others. But, like a Rethug, he doesn't see it that he should resign.
I wholeheartedly agree... sometimes the only way one can make it right is to find a different career... and he should.
DeleteHadn't seen his first "apology," but this one was at least straightforward.
Note, I didn't say that I thought he should remain on the bench - the fact that he found such a thing funny tells me that there's no way such a person should be making binding decisions on peoples' lives, and any ruling from this point forward is bound to be suspect, along with any past rulings...
He should bear cost of his hatred... one can be convicted of any heinous crime, be truly sorry, yet still need to pay the price... this ass is no different.
Yes, he does sound sincere, but I want to see what an investigation shows about his racism. He at least had the decency to apologize.
ReplyDeleteHe might be sincere but there is certainly something else he can do. He has lost credibility so he needs to resign.
ReplyDeleteThank you Judge for manning up.
ReplyDeleteAs someone who grew up in the south, I can tell you that even if you aren't "racist" jokes such as what was written in this email go around all the time. It's a matter of course. Whether they are jokes about a person's color, race, weight, sex, etc. people just pass them on by or on, and don't even think about the consequences of that "joke". The passive acceptance of these types of things is pervasive throughout. ESPECIALLY if you are a white man.
ReplyDeleteI think this man is smart enough to realize he just jumped the shark. I don't think he did it intentionally, maliciously. He just did it clueless-ly, which is even worse? But at least he had to class to publicly apologize in writing. But it could be a case of CYA and save your job?
He's forced to do the letter to save his ass. His first apology was like a wet handshake -- The old 'if anyone was offended' crap.
DeleteI have no doubt that this type of joke is common among certain groups of people in our country. However, as a judge, he should consider himself held to a higher standard than people in many other professions. It may not be fair, but it's reality.
DeleteI'm a teacher and I am always conscious of the kinds of things I post on social media or send in emails. I have often received jokes I thought were funny but chose not to pass them along because I would never want the kids I work with every day to come across postings I would be embarrassed for them to see.
He has ruined his reputation and shown himself to be severely lacking in integrity - two things that are unacceptable in a judge. He is trying now to save his job but I, for one, feel he's forfeited the honor of presiding on the bench.
Well it goes around all the time because no one it telling it like it is. And how could what he did, or those who routinely "joke" like this, not be intentional and maliciously. Do you see how this gives permission to not only "joke" around like this but also leads to the more suggestible to then do things like chain a black man to a pickup truck and drag him to his death - because that black man isn't really human, so what's wrong about it? That is what's wrong about it - not just that it's offensive or that blacks and women may get hurt feelings - this kind of dehumanizing leads to acting on that contempt for other human beings.
DeleteI think he should resign in shame. I could not trust this man to keep his political/social leanings in check in the courtroom, and I wouldn't want his questionable judgement judging me.
ReplyDeleteAnd it's just beyond disgraceful.
I'd hate to be either black, Mexican, Asian, etc. in his Court. Investigation of all his cases should be front and center for his decisions on the cases.
DeleteFirst words (actions) speak truth - sending the email
Second words (actions) crap apology is attend to remove foot from mouth
Third words (actions) letter to President -- last ditch attempt to save his ass
Or a woman, since this joke goes beyond being racist...it also shows a disdain for women.
DeleteHe is clearly no worthy to hold his office and needs to be removed immediately. Also, any retirement benefits from the job should be withheld.
The fact that he didn't just click "send" but felt the need to add his own little comment to it shows it was done with forethought and intention. It also tells a lot about him that he has friends who send him such things, knowing he won't find them offensive.
I have a childhood friend who would send me things like this. I finally wrote to him and told him to take me off of his list of friends. I didn't want that shit in my inbox.
Unlike so many other Republicans in high political office, this letter *does* sound sincere.
ReplyDeleteI suppose that is the difference between a judge and a politician.
I commend the judge for sending this to the review board and abiding by their decision.
Judge Cebull is very lucky that Obama is his President, as Obama is a just and caring man who does not hold grudges. Obama is forgive him and dismiss this as he has more pressing matters regarding sticks and stones. (I imagine he's also heard far worse and had to ignore it.)
Now if a liberal judge had made a similar gaffe under President Bush II, heads would have rolled and the judge would be history faster than FEMA could deliver a formaldehyde trailer.
I agree!! The Republican Religious Right think that they are the only ones who are "right" all the time. Why? Because they own God or they're conservative or whatever the hell it is that makes them think they are "above" liberals. Look how they try to make liberal a dirty word! If a liberal judge or a liberal radio host did these things there would be mobs in the streets with pitchforks! It's time to push back on these narrow minded bigots and take our country back!!
DeleteThe problem with liberals is that we believe that everyone should play fair. These scum don't play fair! They are underhanded and play dirty. They spew lies and hate. If they get control of our country we will see the coming of the American Taliban. It disgusts me!
These guys are trying to make moderate into a dirty word. Liberal is already there. Liberal isn't even a question anymore. They have managed to convince liberals to stop using the word in favor of progressive or some more mealy mouthed description.
DeleteBecause we are progressives, we will give benefit of the doubt, assume him to be sincere, look for some positive to come from it and let it go.
ReplyDeleteHad this been the other side, the family of said judge, home address and all identifying information would have already been published widely on RW forums and blogs. The family would already have received astounding amount of hate mail, had their names drug through the mud on a daily basis, likely had to pull their kids from school and shut off all tv and internet, lest the hate filled screeds further invade their home.
No, we will assume the best--whether he deserves it or not. Thats' just who we are.
Very well said. That is exactly what would have happened if it had been the other side.
DeleteSouthern Virginia Voter
With all the evidence in about who and what the GOP/Baggers/Fundie's are, have said and done - why would anyone "assume the best". There is no "best" there to assume. No, people have held their tongues too long, and let this shit flourish - the President has to take the high road, but we need to recognize that taking the high road, the rest of us - is interpreted by the Judge and his kind to be tacit agreement - so they up the ante to an obscene level, and a dangerous level - as we saw with Palin's crosshairs - that too was just a joke, right?
DeleteI've been very upset with this fellow since we all learned he sent out that horrible email to his buddies. But, do think his letter sounds sincere to President Obama.
ReplyDeleteSincerely hope this crud about President Obama being black (when he is actually part white too!) stops. It truly needs to! The Republican party (not all) has displayed themselves very badly during the recent years and I think they are going to be called out on it with the upcoming election. At least, I hope so!
Yes, many in the republican party have conducted themselves very badly during the recent years, BUT the problems is that the rest of the republicans do not speak out against this nonsense.
DeleteAGREE!!
DeleteGive the guy a chance. Though the 'joke' was over the line, it isn't even close to what the TeaParty calls a real joke. So, he went through the dust, said his 'mea culpa' and I think we should behave as a President and brush this off.
ReplyDeleteIs that how you would feel if this "joke" was made about your own mother, sister, wife, or daughters? Clearly you share Sarah's "boys will be boys" attitude.
DeleteWe need to make it clear that this is NOT ACCEPTABLE. A judge must be impartial..he can't express political opinions. Since he has stepped over that line and made his dislike of the President public, he must be removed from his job.
Yeah - slandering a dead woman who was the mother of the President of the United States by accusing her of beastiality, a woman who died of cancer at a very young age and cannot defend herself, because he hates Blacks, women, and anyone not White and Male, is always just a harmless "joke".
DeletePoor guy, how could anyone not see it's "just a joke". Let's all cry a tear for him as he exits the Courthouse after a thorough review has been done on how many times his "just a joke" has been played out against every woman and minority member who has appeared before him!
He doesn't know what else to do? Resign. You've proven you can't be impartial.
ReplyDeleteWell he's writing/saying the right things...NOW. He wouldn't be doing any of this if he hadn't been caught. His initial reaction to the backlash was 'surprise' that the email had been made public. Sorry, I still think he's wearing a white robe and hood under that black one.
ReplyDeletenope, not buying it. The only thing sincere about it is his sincere wish to keep the job that he does not deserve to hold.
ReplyDelete"Honestly I do not know what else I can do" May come from the heart but it also sounds like he feels victimized and erases guilt. He might have tried "Is there anything I can do" or he might have left that phrase out entirely. However, at least he wrote. He was not only racist and stupid but also insulted his rank and trust as a judge. At minimum I would hope his peers demote him and give him meaningful community service.
ReplyDeleteRESIGN is what you can, and should do. Especially if you sent that email using A GOVERNMENT EMAIL system.
ReplyDeleteThat's abuse of your workplace tools and a breach of policy, especially for gov employees, never mind a senior judge.
YOU ARE FREAKIN' done, you repulsive idiot!
If POTUS accepts the apology, so do I.
ReplyDelete"Honestly, I don't know what else I can do,"
ReplyDeleteSIMPLE: Remove himself from the bench immediately.
Sincere apology letter or not -- this is an ongoing issue for far too long and it needs to be addressed. This jerk has been given the power to make decisions in court of people's lives and he not being able to conduct his own self -- he should not be allowed to continue to conduct his power over the citizens of his jurisdiction.
I always say, even though this was no verbal from him -- first comment (actions) speak truth -- walkback is to save their ass. Sorry -- I'm not buying this crap anymore. He can apologize up the ying yang -- but his forwarding the email having read it first is his 'truth statement' -- he's racist.
No more of this 'progressives' back down. Tired of being used as a doormat by the rethugs. Progressives need to grow a backbone and stand up to this.
Remember -- What the Rethugs would be doing if this was a Dem. It's a two way street and time for them to taste a dose of their own.
I'm not black but I still think the man should do the right thing and resign. His effectiveness as a judge will forever be in doubt due to his actions.
ReplyDeleteIf he's racist, then he's probably homophobic too, plus any other biases such individuals have.
No person/entity who wants a fair trial would want this man judging them. It's far too risky.
The man is getting paid to be a federal judge. He obviously displayed very poor judgement; I doubt if it is the first time. He should no longer be serving on the bench.
ReplyDeleteSincere?
ReplyDeleteGryphen, when judging the sincerity of an apology, you need ask yourself only one question:
Would this apology EVER have come to pass had the apologist not been CAUGHT?
This racist, bigoted, hate machine is not "sorry"- he is merely "sorry he got caught".
"This racist, bigoted, hate machine is not "sorry"- he is merely "sorry he got caught".
DeleteExactly!! He needs to step down immediately. And every single one of his cases needs to be examined to see how his obvious poor judgement has affected his findings.
time for us all to remember the golden rule. the repubs are having a real hard time with that, good christians that they are.
ReplyDeleteOh, and you are right, Gryphen- there needs to be a complete judicial audit of his case files. What do you want to bet- if you found two similar cases he presided over where the charge was exactly the same only one defendant was white and the other black, who do you think would get the arbitrarily long jail term?
ReplyDeleteSorry -- I'm way on the other side of this. Sincere -- BS. That's his doing everything he can to save his ass.
ReplyDeleteThose saying it's sincere -- Really. Don't believe everything you read. He's a day late and a dollar short. Read the following paragraph as this is what this slimball said after he got caught -- his first words were to justify sending it. Apology -- I don't see any part of it as a public apology. That came in the third action via letter to President Obama. Tank the racist bastard.
As Chief District Judge Richard Cebull said once the email had become public:
“The only reason I can explain it to you is I am not a fan of our president, but this goes beyond not being a fan. I didn’t send it as racist, although that’s what it is. I sent it out because it’s anti-Obama.”
Sorry Gryphen and a number of the commentors -- You missed the mark on this one as you fell hookline and sinker without doing any research of read over the last few days. Don't buy into everything you read. Most certainly from the 'Right'.
He has put on full display, he does not have the qualifications to remain on the bench to make decisions on other peoples lives as he can't make correct judgements within his own life. His sending the email and his 'justification' of it tanked him. Review all his decisions of all cases involving anyone that's not 'white'
Too little too late. He should resign. He is Only worried about retaining his judgeship. If his emailed hadn't surfaced he wouldn't be the least remorseful.
ReplyDeleteIt wasn't meant to be public. It is immature, racist, and denigrating; however, I have seen guys pass stuff like this on many times because they think its funny. They're focusing on the possibility of a party where everyone was so wasted that no one remembers what happened. The racist part is secondary and of little importance to them. There are many men who are pretty primitive in their thinking. They walk among us. Gryphen seems to be an exception. This email is particularly egregious because it is from a federal judge and sent through government email. What a dumbass! But no, I'm not shocked.
ReplyDeleteThat's NOT sincerity. He sorry he got CAUGHT. He's worried about his fucking career. But he's still the same racist who has no business remaining on the bench. And, HEDGEWYTCH, accepting and perpetuating racist humor is certainly NOT just a matter of "cluelessness".
ReplyDeleteGosh darn, right again, RunninL8! The Judge's behavior is not just a little faux-pas that you can just say "Sorry" and everything's hunky-dory. It is egregious and harmful to ALL minorities, ALL women, and our whole country. The only way to end it - is to give it no quarter, not one bit!
DeleteForwarding the email was obviously little more than a Freudian slip, you know: where you intend to say & do one thing, but instead mess up and say and do what you really meant and intended.
ReplyDeleteThanks, Anon! I laughed!
DeleteYes, he's sincere - sincerely afraid that it will cost him his position.
ReplyDeleteThis e-mail, and others like it, drill down to the core of fear that runs through white men: that an African black man will rape their white women. They can't abide that Obama's mother married a black man and had a child with him. They are more accepting of a Herman Cain who parents are both African-Americans. Add to that, the fact that Barack Obama was elected president despite being of mixed race. The right wing just can't stand it. So they make up racist posters and e-mails which are passed around like hors d'oeuvres at the country club. And when they get caught, they plead for mercy and are generally forgiven because President Obama is a decent man. But we all know that they are still racists, through and through.
Such hatred should not go unpunished. It eventually leads to violence.
I don't think he fears for his position. I think he fears that every attorney who has represented a poor, non-white, or democratic client before him and whose client got the shaft will file a Motion to Reconsider and for Re-hearing, based on the obvious bias of the court. THAT would flood his court with legal petitions, overwork his staff, and be a huge professional embarrassment to him. Fired? not so much. Living in the firestorm that he created? Yeah, THAT's what he fears. For that, he's 'sincerely sorry'. JMO.
DeleteThis joke is sooooooooooo typical of old white guys in the office -- burdening others by forwarding them sexual emails that I, for one, never want. I doubt others like to be on the receiving end -- unless they are other old white guys who are surely sexually compromised or they would not find such material interesting or appropriate.
ReplyDeleteYes, very very sorry he got caught. Is he sorry about the other 987,989 times he passed on this kind or trash? I doubt it.
I think this supports the Southern Strategy idea -- that there is so much bottled-up racist and misogynist hostility that only recently has become okay to talk about openly. Or via the code-words of contraception, pro-choice, or gay rights.
And for a Judge to be Exhibit A for Southern Strategy -- it is so far beyond shameful.
Yes, he should reign.
I agree that we should take the high road and assume the man's apology is sincere.
ReplyDeleteBut sincere or not, he should resign or, if necessary, be forced from the bench. Our apologies do not -- and should not -- protect us from the consequences of our actions.
High road as well, because you know that is exactly what President Obama will do. I just wish he'd do it with a little more "I'm sorry you feel that way" - by the nature of the comment the judge made in forwarding, he really does feel that way.
DeleteHe should resign - probably every case lost by a person of color in his courtroom will be appealed.
I respect the choice to take the "high road" - but sometimes even taking the low road is still taking the high road, which, in the Judge's case, is the gutter road. I make the judgement as to how I respond by weighing how much actual harm is caused by the behavior in question. Clearly - this kind of attitude and encouragement is extremely harmful as it dehumanizes women, minorities, and the Office of the President of the United States. It is ths very dehumanization and contempt that gives permission to the lunatics who admire this man to commit violence or other harmful acts against women and minorities with a guilt free conscience. It validates the mindset and behavior. If it falls in that category - of creating, perpetuating, and validating great harm against others - there is no high road to take. President Obama must maintain high decorum - but I do not, I will tell it like it is, and this man has been doing this for years. I have zero tolerance for the bullshit that's been allowed to run free because the President is Black, IMO - too many have been taking the "high road" and not been strong enough in pushing back.
DeleteThank you, Marleycat!
DeleteIn the reeeeeel whirled where the restivofus live, one serious mistake, one breach of this class and nature will ruin, ruin our lives, our parents lives, our children's lives essentially forever as we know it. Thiz guy has been blessed with a pleasant exterior, a more than adequate education, power, prestige, all the enjoyments this top notch nation can provide and this...this...is what he comes up with for his "best" effort. Mercy? Nah...we need some justice here... I wouldn't give ten cents for what's in his heart...nasty, nasty, nasty. Shows horrid judgment, is he a drinker? One toke over the line... What our American families have been through...we don't need a guy like him with the power he's got over lives...send him out to pasture...immediately...at least.
ReplyDeleteLook at the carnage in East Tennessee caused by a judge popping oxys whilst on the bench:
Deletehttp://www.knoxnews.com/news/2012/feb/19/editorial/
Murders and rapists might go free.
He is unfit to wear the robe of a Federal judge--poor judgment, not honorable.
ReplyDeleteHe should resign.
I think it's great he apologized but I also think he did so because he had to.
ReplyDeleteI believe (and I'm a registered republican who has voted with the Dems since Palin) that he needs to resign. He has stained the court with this and no longer appears to be judiciously impartial. I want my judges (all of em, any of em) to be impartial and rule on the letter of the law, and this fellow can no longer be trusted to do so.
I don't want to be able to tell which political party a judge belongs to and this guy just reeks of the racist faction of my former party.
If an employee in any other position forwarded an email like this about his boss and on company time, he would be cleaning out his desk.
ReplyDeleteNope. He didn't just forward the message without comment, which would have been bad enough.
ReplyDeleteHe added his own comment about how this TOUCHED HIS HEART.
An apology is appropriate from his as an individual citizen, and is no doubt sincere.
However, such an apology is in no way an adequate substitute for resigning from the bench. His actions demonstrate that he is not qualified to continue his role in the justice system.
Two different things entirely.
He's pretty much guaranteed himself a lot of grief in the future as one after another, attorneys will request he is removed from cases because of his bias.
ReplyDeleteSometimes an apology is just that.. an apology. People make mistakes and while we know there are a lot of people who just apology 'just because', he did sound sincere and hopefully he learned a valuable lesson.
ReplyDeleteAs a sitting judge, we would hope he would have had the decency to know that this was inappropriate when he received the e-mail and acted accordingly. Even though this was sent to just a few of his 'friends' and came back to bite him in the butt, he came forward and acknowledged his mistake.
In the future, I'm sure (hoping) he will be more 'aware' and act with decency expected from a sitting judge.
Now, on the other hand, if his cases prove that he has been bias in his judgements based on 'color/race' then the gloves are off and he needs to be kicked out.
But for now, you know the saying... it takes a big person to apologize and sometimes a bigger person to accept that apology gracefully.
Or something like that.
Okay. Then just imagine being an attorney with a wrongfully charged poor black client who is scheduled to appear in a trial before him. How would you feel then? If you were the client, how would you feel then? The 'apology' would make everything hunky dory? Or perhaps you would always wonder if you got the shaft if you lost the case (or, if you were the client, and had to pay the ultimate price)?
DeleteI will reserve judgment until I learn more about what filing a complaint against himself means. Is it anything like Palin filing a complaint against herself to be heard by her very own hand-picked-by-her-and-owe-their-jobs-to-her Personnel Board?
ReplyDeleteAlso? I can think of plenty of things he can do. Like devote himself to speaking out about this republican horseshit every single time it happens. Every single time. Become the watchdog of the racist email forwarders out there. Especially if they are doing it on the employer's or the taxpayers' dime.
Also, you disrespected the man's mother! Do you get that, judge? An intelligent, hardworking, educated, accomplished single mother who against all odds, raised not just a successful adult, but a President of the United States of America!
Judge, I suggest you put your little-used thinking cap on and think reallll hard about something you can do to apologize for the disrespect you showed the president's mother.
Apologies notwithstanding, I still think the judge's action calls his "judgement" into question...
ReplyDeleteChoices have consequences.
Period.com
His true sentiments were expressed in the email and that makes him inappropriate as a judge. Why would there be any confusion over this question in the minds of 'any' American?
ReplyDeleteMore specifically, there is no possibility of him ever presiding a court where people of colour are being judged. Would any person of coulour ever be able to allow themselves to be judged by this racist piece of trash.
It's also inappropriate to ask for varying opinions on this matter. There is only one appropriate opinion and only one correct answer.
Ask for his resignation and force it upon him and tell him to take his bedsheet and pointy hat with him when he goes.
Luv from Canada.
it was just a joke it's not like it's even biologically possible to have a hybrid like that everyone knows it it's merely a way of expressing a low opinion of someone it is offensive and he admits it and he has been made to apologize now let bygones by bygones
ReplyDeleteBygones? LOL!
DeleteI mean, FUCK your bygones . . . .
The code of ethics lawyers and judges SWEAR to adhere to requires not just the absence of impropriety, but the absence of the appearance of impropriety.
There is no room in our judicial system, which exists to administer impartial justice, for racism. There is also no room in our judicial system for over disrespect for the office of the President, as that is, quite simply, disrespect for the rule of law. This judge has displayed both racism and distain for the law.
AnonymousMar 3, 2012 11:13 AM
DeleteIt's so obvious you are joking because I'm sure you wouldn't have any problems if a person said that about your mother and your conception...right?
Anonymous 11:13
DeleteI'm sorry, I misplaced my Daniel Webster's "wtf? to english dictionary".
Are you trying to convey that the racist "comedic" judge drives a prius and raises begonias?
I don't know - the Judge looks like HE was fathered by a pig, a real oinking pig!
DeleteThe judge doesn't want to get fired. He still disrespects the President's race in his heart.
ReplyDeleteHmmm... How can one know if he has learned a lesson, changed his mind, grown a conscience, whatever?
ReplyDelete1) HE could first volunteer a LARGE part of his salary to the NAACP.
2) He could become a volunteer working with people of color.
3) He could be required to take black history and ethics training - under Cornell West
4) He could offer to be on probation and have his correspondence monitored for a length of time. Nothing like this happens for say, five years. OK. I not - gone, no questions, no appeal.
A federal judge? The most prestigious legal appointment one can have short of the Circuit Court of Appeals or the Supreme Court? Judge for life at a BIG salary with HUGE benefits and incalcuable public responsibility?
ReplyDeleteResign!
What a week it's been. I can't help thinking about the line in the movie Body Heat where the character says "sometimes the shit comes down so fast you have to have an umbrella".
My response to this judge is the same, sadly, as my response to Bretibart, Palin, Rush, et al:
1. Jesus wept.
2. Rot in hell (even it's a hell of your own making)
3. Obama 2012
Yes, Cebull should resign. Every person o color who comes before this judge should request a different judge because this one is obviously racist. Thus Cebull cannot perform his duties. And every case of Culls since 1997 that involved a person of color should be reviewed.
ReplyDeleteRe "I just don't know what else I can do."
ReplyDeleteOh, boo hoo, such a victim, reaching out to other old white farts who would tell a similar story and say "sorry" if they are caught. And smile. What else can I do???" But if caught by someone who is black or a woman, it's okay usually, because old white guys can still smile and get away with it most of the time. In fact, they ENJOY doing it. Puts those uppity folks in their place. Why else did he forward this email? To smear a strong and able woman and her son. To be able to look down on them. From his vantage point as an idiot among his low-IQ pals. Hell yes he should resign.
Sounds like Sarah's recently disclosed email in which she bemoans that she's done all she can to prove that Trig is her son, and "I don't know what else I can do".
DeleteI think his prior decisions in cases should be reviewed to see if he shows a pattern of being 'racist'. I'll bet some of the cases are going to come back to haunt him! This guy should be watched, very closely!
ReplyDeleteSarah Palin: ‘I’m Not Going To Be Asked’ To Step Up In A Brokered Convention
ReplyDeletehttp://www.mediaite.com/tv/sarah-palin-im-not-going-to-be-asked-to-step-up-in-a-brokered-convention/
Yeah, he is sorry he got caught and sorry he might lose his job.
ReplyDeleteAgreed. I wonder how many other private "jokes" the judge sent to his close friends just for laughs.
DeleteExcellent article about Breitfart by David Frum.
ReplyDeletehttp://www.thedailybeast.com/articles/2012/03/01/andrew-breitbart-1969-2012.html
Sarah on ReGreta:
ReplyDeletehttp://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pe_mtUos8Dw&list=UUEUKMWREa6HLwfUlD3a3vtQ&index=2&feature=plcp
He could do more than ask for a Judicial review, He could and should resign, The Judicial review should be done on all of his prior minority involved rulings.
ReplyDeleteHow could anyone of color going before this Judge in court trust that he is not biased against them? Answer: They couldn't. In fact, this Judge's previously decided cases might now come into question and have to be re-examined.
ReplyDeleteThe Judge compromised the integrity of his court. There's no un-doing that. He should resign on his own accord and not have to be made to leave the bench. He is a coward.
How could any gender of female trust this judge's ability to be fair? He basically is suggesting that women are indiscriminantly promiscuous and don't even remember who or what they had sex with.
DeleteThis would be like forgiving Sarah Palin for faking her pregnancy with Trig. It really calls into question the mindset that could do such a thing. The Judge got caught and now he wants to keep his job. I predict there will be dozens of cases that will demand to be re-tried, and for good reason! If he did it once (that we know of) he has NO judgement -- especially not for a Federal Judge. His letter was good, though. Much better than a "those who may have been offended" apology letter. At least he took responsibility. But he has a long road ahead to make this right.
ReplyDeleteAnd, in the name of his dear, amazing mother, let's give our President a November Landslide!!!
To anonymous 11:13 - since it's "just a joke" how about we do a little edit:
ReplyDeleteAnd the mother said, "don't go there Sarah! From what I remember of that party, you're lucky you don't have antlers!"
Yeah, you're right, just a joke... nothing to see here folks.
This racist PIG can go fuck himself. I hope he gets recalled.
ReplyDeleteo/t this is how Fox News is responding to Rush's comments toward Sandra Fluke. They are trying to discredit her.
ReplyDeletehttp://nation.foxnews.com/sandra-fluke/2012/03/02/sandra-fluke-fame-hungry-activist
FUX NEWS needs to go down in flames too - and we can all have another ticker tape parade in addition to the one for Limpballs when he joins Breitbart in Hell!
DeleteI do not agree with anyone here who posted that the apology was sincere. The email was one of the filthiest yet, bestiality accusation was beyond anything of filth that we had encountered from the right wing dicks so far.
ReplyDeleteCebull is just shaking his head at being caught. Who the hell is he feeling sorry for, when asking he doesn't know what more he can do? Himself!
The ugliness perpetrated, marginalization of women, blacks, Latinos and any other ethnic group by the arrogant, lying right wingers is destroying our country.
Your vote will be more important in November than any of us realize right now. This lying, hate filled environment perpetuated by the ignorant REthugs could be our undoing if we don't stay on task.
People do not change, people do not change, people do not change - they are what they are!!!!! Impeach this despicable thug.
A judge should be fair and impartial. A white supremacist cannot be fair and impartial. THIS JUDGE HAS TO GO!
ReplyDeleteNOTHING CHANGES.
ReplyDeletethis guy is racist and remains a racist.
no doubt he has harmed MANY people of color who have come before his bench.
what this is is the excuse that others can now continue to be seen with him and do their business as usual because "the judge has apologized".
see it takes them all off the hook and lets them move forward without the stain of racists being put on them.
thats how the game is played .
get it?
Every court case involving people of color that this "judge" has presided over in the past should be reviewed. Every court case involving people of color in the future that he presides over will be suspect.
ReplyDeleteRESIGN, Judge! You have blown your credibility for impartial judgment!
Cases involving women as well - the joke was sexist.
DeleteT rant was not the result of being cut off in taffic it was a well thought out rant.
ReplyDeleteHe should be treated like any 19 year old low or middle class citizen: His Home should be searched and his home and work computers impounded, and searched thoroughly.
If he has no other bad stuff located, he can keep his job after a 30 day unpaid vacation.
he should resign. his career as an attorney would be assured after serving as a judge, so he would not really be financially harmed. however, a resignation would send the right message - not this apology which, i agree with others here, was merely written because he was CAUGHT, not because he really is sorry.
ReplyDeletehe's obviously trying to save his skank racist ass, hope like hell it's too late for that, fuk him..
ReplyDeleteThe only thing this letter proves is that the ass has a secretary that can write... He did NOT write this he signed it....It totally is a case of CYA and he needs to tender his resignation immediately. I would hate to be a minority in his courtroom and expect a fair trial...
ReplyDeleteI think he only regrets sending the email to people he could not trust would keep it among their own circle.
ReplyDeleteThe joke was not only racist, but also sexist. He suggests that the President's mother can't remember the "party" when she became pregnant. He sounds like Rush Limbaugh calling the law student a slut.
He should not be a judge.
Sarah Palin: ‘I’m Not Going To Be Asked’ To Step Up In A Brokered Convention
ReplyDeleteWith the Alaska Republican primary on the horizon, Alaska’s most prominent Republican has been making the rounds on Fox News, and this morning Sarah Palin stopped by to tell Republicans to keep their eye on the Democratic ball, not to fear a brokered convention, and not to watch Game Change. But in doing so she made a new revelation in being asked whether she would take the convention stage should it be brokered: she doesn’t expect anyone to support her.
Giving a similar evaluation to the field in Alaska as she did last night– that Mitt Romney would probably take it, and Rep. Ron Paul would make a strong showing– anchor Uma Pemmaraju asked the question that everyone always asked Palin about the primary, just in case she changes her mind: would you throw your hat in the ring, in a brokered convention? “I’m not going to be asked!” Palin laughed, but added, “if it results in a brokered convention, that is nothing to fear.” She noted that she would support any candidate, “anybody but Obama.”
Palin also weighed in on Rick Santorum‘s attempts to woo independents and Democrats in open primaries, which she found fair. “A dirty trick is when your kids are attacked,” she argued, not “soliciting independent Americans.”
As for Game Change, Palin said she wouldn’t give it the time of day, but knows it is false because “there were people on my side who were with us 24/7″ who saw and read the story and knew it was false. She ended by throwing Rep. Allen West‘s name out as a good potential vice presidential candidate.
http://www.mediaite.com/tv/sarah-palin-im-not-going-to-be-asked-to-step-up-in-a-brokered-convention/
Who were the august recipients that received this "forwarded" email? They apparently were adjudged by Richard F Cebull as persons likely to appreciate the values contained within this offensive material against the President of the United States. Are they also...US federal judges? His "peers"? Names of them please...subpoena that information.
ReplyDeleteExactly! Whom were his Klanmates, hmmm?
DeleteStand down 'judge', you no longer show any judgement.
Resign
ReplyDeleteHe is not fit to pass judgement on anyone.
What a disgraceful person.
I said it already and I'll say it again....Ya'll ain't see nothing yet! As we get closer to November the Klu Klux Koch brothers will be whipping (pun intended) off those white robes and having themselves a good ole boy time!
ReplyDeleteI'm waiting for the first nitwit to call President Obama the "N" word! I thought it was going to be "Limpballs" or Beerfart...but after Beerfart had a date with the sidewalk and Limpballs is getting "reamed" (and not the way he likes it too!) neither one of those guys are up for the job...so I guess it's up to the "Loony Lunatic of Lake Lucille" to step up! Come on Baldy...you are thisclose to doing it!
Oh yeah...I forgot your racial slur of choice is....SAMBO!
Look.....he sent the original e-mail from his government account, from a government computer, from his place of work.
ReplyDeleteThat is no different than using stationary from his office with his formal federal letterhead and sending this hateful letter to numerous people.
An e-mail from his government account carries the same weight.
It begs the question..how often does this Judge use his official e-mail account for anything other than official business and to whom is he corresponding with??
Then there is the statement that :
"The only reason I can explain it to you is I am not a fan of our president, but this goes beyond not being a fan," he said, quoted by Great Falls Tribune newspaper.
"I didn't send it as racist, although that's what it is. I sent it out because it's anti-Obama," he said."
A federal judge is not supposed be partisan...PERIOD....and if he recognizes that the content is racist and sends it regardless ...he is by definition a racist.
This man has no capacity to judge anyone or any situation..OBVIOUSLY.
Either he can't even figure out what it means to be racist, or he wears the red stain sheets on Saturday night.
If he refuses to step down, he needs to be impeached.
Any case that has come before him concerning minorities will be open for review now and rightfully so.
Look.....he sent the original e-mail from his government account, from a government computer, from his place of work.
ReplyDeleteThat is no different than using stationary from his office with his formal federal letterhead and sending this hateful letter to numerous people.
An e-mail from his government account carries the same weight.
It begs the question..how often does this Judge use his official e-mail account for anything other than official business and to whom is he corresponding with??
Then there is the statement that :
"The only reason I can explain it to you is I am not a fan of our president, but this goes beyond not being a fan," he said, quoted by Great Falls Tribune newspaper.
"I didn't send it as racist, although that's what it is. I sent it out because it's anti-Obama," he said."
A federal judge is not supposed be partisan...PERIOD....and if he recognizes that the content is racist and sends it regardless ...he is by definition a racist.
This man has no capacity to judge anyone or any situation..OBVIOUSLY.
Either he can't even figure out what it means to be racist, or he wears the red stain sheets on Saturday night.
If he refuses to step down, he needs to be impeached.
Any case that has come before him concerning minorities will be open for review now and rightfully so.
A person on his position should know better. I learned in the 4th grade not to EVER put something in writing that I didn't want the whole world to read.
ReplyDeleteFurthermore, regarding the apolgy, I am not at all convinced he is remorseful for what he did, he's just sorry he got caught.
disgusting.
disgusted,
LIZ
For those of you who believe that the judge's apology sounds sincere, I applaud your outlook of the half full glass, and I also applaud that some of you lean toward a forgiving heart.
ReplyDeleteBut having said that, I must say also, that the very fact that this man found the 'joke' funny to begin with, tells me much about his views and prejudices. The fact that he forwarded it to his inner circle tells me much about his judgement. I just don't think he is made of the kind of 'stuff' I want to see in a judge.
I also have to say that having written much in my life, I am pretty good with words. If I was worried about losing the best job I ever had, you can bet I could write an apology that would melt your heart, while never meaning a word of it.
Also, if I ever had the privilege of serving as a federal judge I would NEVER allow such comments let alone forward them. What is wrong with him? An example of what is wrong with the administration of justice in the United States. Just terrible.
ReplyDeleteWhat you say in private with friends and family is who you really are.
ReplyDeleteTo be so foolish as to send such offensive material through his work email speaks to his lack of judgement and intelligence as well.
He should have resigned immediately.
ReplyDeleteWhat does this behavior say to other world leaders? If this Chief U.S. District Judge who holds much power in his hands and represents the United States isn't removed, it destroys this Office's reputation. He should be fired or removed.
He should have known better. If a military Head was making jokes about his President like that, he would be out the door. Why should it be any different here?
Apology #2
ReplyDeleteRush Limbaugh sent out an apology. Ha.
I just filled out an FCC form to have Clear Channel and he be removed from the airwaves.
OT, but Oh Lord, she thinks she's going to be chosen as VP pick. The nominee should pick someone who has been in the military or who has had a family member in the military and thus knows the inner workings. The latest Fox interview is a doozy.
ReplyDeleteShe is practically begging them to put her name up for the brokered convention, if there is one. She keeps saying that "no one will ask her". She is just pathetic.
DeleteAs for the VP spot, she would jump all over it yet she tries to act like that she wouldn't. She is so freaking transparent!
Didn't she have one like that awhile back as well? Where she was asked about what qualifications she'd like to see in a candidate and she basically rattled off her own semi-fraudulent resume?
DeleteAs far as her getting another VP nod, I just don't see it happening. Her popularity is in the toilet and I seriously doubt anyone would want to make that same mistake. If they want an attractive female conservative, there are others who haven't quit their posts and can actually come off as knowledgeable. I'd see Nikki Haley getting a VP nod before Snowdrift Snooki.
No pass...
ReplyDeleteAs a judge, it is this man's JOB to be impartial. This man swore to uphold the Constitution, and to be impartial, fair and just.
He is a racist. Plain and simple.
He meant to send the email, he even wrote in his own comment to the email before hand how he felt it in heart..blah blah...
Someone in his position should not be judging anyone.
So, while the apology was just, I think that his true core has been exposed.
It isn't like he is a mechanic or sitting on one political side of the aisle or the other...the man is a JUDGE.
Boot him from the bench and get someone who can be impartial and fair.
No black, democrat or Obama supporter would get a fair trial.
In fact, his cases should be reviewed for bias.
I know what more he could do, show some respect for his office and the people he purports to represent ("the people") and resign.
ReplyDeleteI mean honestly, after that email, how can he ever possibly preside over anything involving non-whites and expect anyone to take seriously his oath to be objective and impartial?
If I were black and subject to a ruling by him, or a lawyer representing a person of color, I would immediately appeal on the basis of bias. And I would do it like clockwork EVERY time that situation came up with this guy.
You're done dude. Your credibility is shot. It's over.
It sounds sincere ... wonder if it really is?
ReplyDeletehe should say he is sorry to President Obama's mother who died of cancer.
ReplyDeleteand it would help if he cried - thinking of the shameful manner in which he intruded upon a man's memory of his mother and father.
the whole email was grotesque and speaks of such a level of crassness, immaturity, and disrespect of women and children....it leaves me cold to his apology.
resignation must follow.
The e-mail was disgusting. But, if we can't at least acknowledge a proper apology (takes responsibility, doesn't shift blame, acknowledges the wrong without trying to minimize the intent) what kind of people are we? We don't have to forgive and forget the offensive act. People who sincerely apologize have no right to expect forgiveness just because they said "I'm sorry." As far as apologies go, the man couldn't have done any better. It doesn't mean that all is forgotten.
ReplyDeletePerhaps a checkup is in order. Just sayin...
ReplyDeleteWhat can he do? He can resign before he is impeached. His kind of 'humor' and lack of respect has no place in a courtroom.
ReplyDeleteOne thought, seppuku. Except, I suppose, that seppuku is an act of honor and this man neither has nor deserves any honor.
ReplyDeleteI agree - I wish they (who are like him) all would commit seppuku!
DeleteBarack should seal the deal by having this guy to the White House as a guest of honor,at some function or other. If that wouldn't humiliate him sufficiently, what would?
ReplyDeleteMy thought is that he should be impeached. He has shown himself as a racist. Imagine if you were black and had to appear in front of him.
ReplyDeleteOnly a racist would send an email like that. And not only was it racist, it attacked Obama's mother in a very vile way.
His apology, while sounding a lot more sincere than, say, Limpblob's, also is irrelevant. Once you show your ass, you can't un-show it.
I haven't read the comments yet, I don't think it's enough. It's what you do when no one's watching that matters. Do you think this man would have written the letter had it not been made public?
ReplyDeleteI seriously doubt it.
Being a judge hires the bar (no pun intended). The apology would have made more of an impact if a letter of resignation was attatched.
Someone who felt this "joke" was good enough to "forward" shouldn't be in judgement of others. I honestly feel that every ruling this man ever made should be reviewed.
I DO hope this can be a "teachable moment" to others of the same ilk.
I left a message for the judge on his chamber phone. That number is easy to find.
ReplyDeleteI think I used better judgement with the message I left for him than what he did by e-mailing that trash to his friends.
President Obama is a gracious man and would accept this apology.
ReplyDeleteBUT I WON'T.
I think the judge should resign. He has no business receiving a paycheck and generous benefits from the federal government that he so clearly has no respect for. Let the Republican Party hire him.
ReplyDeleteBeaglemom
What would HE want if HIS mother was maligned in such a way?
ReplyDeleteHe should resign.
ReplyDeleteMy two bits - ask yourself if he would be apologizing iif it had not become public, and then, if he would be apologizing if the intense blowback and disgust had not been the reaction? He is not sincere, but he does know that his job and reputation is now at stake. If the public had not reacted as it did - there wouldn't have apologized. I'm sure there are a lot more e-mails in this same vein, that haven't been disclosed - which gave him the courage to send even more vile ones along to his "buddies". I'd make him disclose who these buddies are who he sends them on to and what their response was. I bet not one responded by saying - please don't send me anymore e-mails like this. You are too kind, Gryphen!
ReplyDelete