The West Wing: President Bartlet owns religous nut

Season 2 Episode 3.

[@raptordrone765]

This scene is so masterfully written and executed. It was years before I noticed a smaller bit of genius. It is that he says "in THIS house, when the PRESIDENT stands" Not in "my" house when "I" stand. He's demanding her respect while simultaneously humbling himself by acknowledging he is a steward to the building and title. Brilliant writing.

[@creativewriter3887]

Yes.. that the POSITION, not necessarily the PERSON, commands respect.. regardless of party lines or political viewpoints.. of course it certainly has been tried to the breaking point by quite a few personalties including one who also encouraged an insurrection..

[@grahammonk8013]

@@creativewriter3887 There was a time (I think it was Obama?) Where a very old soldier, (Injured? disabled?) was told by the president he didn't have to stand, said "When the president is stands, so do I"

[@spongmongler6760]

respect can never be demanded, that makes it fear.

[@dirusj4006]

@@grahammonk8013 Early on Obama was told to stop walking around the WH because he was interrupting people because they would stand. Willing to bet he isn't the only POTUS that had that issue.

[@fayesouthall6604]

Absolutely brilliant

[@beege222]

Everyone who has ever used the bible to justify racism, sexism, homophobia or any other form of prejudice should be made to watch this.

[@angiesmith1675]

beege222 racism: a belief that one race is superior to another race. I would first have to believe there are different races. The Bible says that is a lie. Stop believing it. Stop trading the truth of God for a lie. There is one race, the human race created in His image...male and female. Born in Adam and descendants of Noah. Melanin is one color with different shades. My husband and I are not an interracial couple. I did not marry a dog. He is just more melanin deficient than I. Homophobia: any phobia is a fear of something. The Bible says that we are not to fear man who can kill the body, but fear God Who can kill the body and soul. sexism: giving preference to someone based on their sex. Well, that’s a difficult one because there are qualities women have and men have that would be better suited for certain jobs/situations. So, this would require further investigation by a sober-minded individual. And hey, how can one believe in sexism and transgender, fluid...? Choose one or the other. I don’t believe lies. I believe the Bible. The Bible says: 28 There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free man, there is neither male nor female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus. 29 And if you belong to Christ, then you are Abraham's descendants, heirs according to promise. (Galatians 3:28, NASB) The only separation in the Bible is those who believe in Christ, alone and those who reject Christ, alone. And that separation is eternal.

[@bluegirl278]

It just showed examples of sexism and prejudice you moron. You can’t sell your daughter! She is a thinking, feeling, human being worth just as much as you. If you actually think anyone watching this video is going to fall for your crap, take a hike.

[@callidusvulpes5556]

@@angiesmith1675 The Bible is a lie, therefore you believe lies. Timothy 2:12 - But I suffer not a woman to teach, nor to usurp authority over the man, but to be in silence. By the rules your own arbitrary book you shouldn’t be attempting to teach me anything.

[@angiesmith1675]

@@callidusvulpes5556 you just said the Bible is a lie. So, based on your belief I can preach, teach, or anything I want with the Bible. To continue, in your worldview, by what standard and authority do you get “male and female”? I’m the one with the biblical worldview that informs people they are created in the image of God, not from goo nor an ape. I’m the one the biblical knowledge and fear of the Lord that has the eyes to see what God has to say about His creation. That He has created them, male and female.

[@callidusvulpes5556]

@@angiesmith1675 Yes, from my view you can preach or teach to whoever you want, I wasn’t discussing my worldview I was discussing yours, I was saying that since you believe in the Bible that by your own principles (not mine) you should stop attempting to teach/preach to other males since your Bible tells you not to. “...not from goo nor an ape.” You really are the stereotypical religious person, you take my view and grotesquely oversimplify it in an attempt to make it sound stupid then attack that stupid oversimplification (this technique is called strawmanning). Timothy 2:12 - “But I suffer not a woman to teach, nor to usurp authority over the man, but to be in silence.” Maybe the quotation marks will help you realize that it’s a quote from the Bible (New Testament). I disagree with that quote completely, but if you believe in God and the Bible than you’re supposed to follow this.

[@toddshearer6768]

❤ this scene - decades later, it never gets old, only, sadly, more & more relevant

[@tomelmore8431]

....why yes - always increasingly impressive as the dismembered innocents pile up beneath the feet of the Moloch worshippers. Martin's real outcome is his sons. Stand for something - or you'll fall for anything - including just about any social disease that wanders in through the back door.

[@goinggoinggone535]

@@tomelmore8431 lmao! You should do stand-up. This was hilarious.

[@DSkehan2004]

Besides she should’ve stood for the president, was he really that mad on her belief in gay shit? What else did she say?

[@goinggoinggone535]

@@DSkehan2004 "Belief in gay shit"

[@sawtooth808]

@@tomelmore8431 did you ride a short bus to school? Did you have Asbestos as insulation? Were you exposed to lead based paint?

[@LJY08]

The only problem with this scene? That the 'religious nut' actually starts to think about her thoughts and actions. That would NEVER happen in reality.

[@danieldickson8591]

I don't think she was thinking about her thoughts and actions. She was thinking about finding a fast discreet way to slip out of that room.

[@EdgemanLL2]

The reason it wouldn't happen in reality is that fundamentalists aren't stupidly just repeating what they were told in Sunday School 40 years earlier. They truly believe what they believe and have answered those questions countless times. This isn't a documentary. This is a TV show. She looks embarrassed and shamed for 1 reason, and one reason only. Writers WROTE the script that way. In real life, they wouldt not be dissuaded, this is nothing new.

[@gregmccarty8476]

Why would he have her there in the 1st place?

[@siddmic]

EdgemanLL2 She was publicly admonished in front of peers, colleagues, and news crews. Not to mention the entire White House Staff. Put yourself in the world for a moment, while thinking logically (the two aren’t mutually exclusive) she would likely be embarrassed because the President just baited her into a hot button discussion she wasn’t in control of, called her out for bad protocol, reminded her of her place, and then left without her being able to respond. That move would have removed any power of conversation she may have had with any number of responses to those questions.

[@EdgemanLL2]

@@siddmic ….because the writers WROTE it that way.

[@Foldy435]

When he says that "in this building when the President stands nobody sits" he's not being an ass, Jed Bartlet was so dedicated to his role that he was referring to anybody who dares undermine or treat the Presidency in a derogatory way not to himself. The mark of a real President, what a pity he was fictional.

[@glennbanfield9732]

Excellent !

[@ellenfisher5750]

I watch West Wing reruns every so often. Usually end up in tears thinking "this is the way government SHOULD be run".

[@danieldickson8591]

It's why he says "the President," not "I" or "Bartlett." He's just the current holder of the office.

[@jeffreythomas2787]

What a load of utube garbage 😮😮😮😮😮 f j b 😊 martin sheet sux😅😅

[@SuRoFo]

Damn, that squint on the President's eyes when she doubled down on sitting down in his presence...

[@jpx8793]

Yep. She has the right to personally believe whatever she wants. That's her business. But she still must respect the office.

[@danieldickson8591]

That squint said as eloquently as any words, "Keep pushing me. See what happens."

[@Hal09i]

"...In this building, when the President stands, nobody sits..." Bartlet might have been willing to overlook the talk show host and not challenge her on her beliefs. But the disrespect she showed when not standing just cinched it.

[@jamesgoines7663]

Excellent observations

[@WallsofFameAustralia]

For me, one of the most sublime aspects of this entire scene is the very subtle squint by Bartlett to really drive home his point. I know not whether it was written, directed or Sheen just did it, however it remains one of the finest moments of the entire series.

[@rohangangan8327]

Ya I noticed it at first which I thought was weird but then I thought she was a cripple on a wheelchair

[@djtexas4993]

Yeah. If she would have been standing, none of it would have likely come up. And it’s not just because of his ego- it’s because he knows the value and importance of the position he holds, regardless of who is standing in that position.

[@richardsteele8161]

Even if I absolutely detest the individual (which I did from 2017 until 2021), I respect the office. That's why we say "Ladies & gentlemen, the President of the United States" instead of the officeholder's name.

[@stevenvicino8687]

"Ignorant Tight-Ass Club". I love it. I'm stealing it.

[@Loveoldies50]

This is one of my favorite scenes, and there are many great scenes in this series. It is VERY well written, and amazingly delivered by Martin Sheen, a wonderfully versatile actor. I've been a fan of his for many decades. This was one of the best TV series of all time. I still watch its reruns. Thanks for posting this!

[@tomelmore8431]

....we hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable rights, that among these are life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness...that to secure these rights governments are instituted among men deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed; That whenever any form of government becomes destructive of these ends it is the right of the people to alter or abolish it... ("....that whenever the president comes into the room everybody should stand up...." --- right? Nope. Not in there...)

[@liman42]

@@tomelmore8431 It's respect for the office as well as the man and if she wants to be that arrogant she can stay home next time. Most things we do aren't in the Constitution or the Declaration of Independence.

[@michaelhayden725]

I watched this whole part from series 2, ch3. So moving,.

[@NavDDG54]

@@tomelmore8431 Military officers saluting superior officers isn't in there either, but it's still considered proper etiquette

[@tomelmore8431]

@@NavDDG54 - Bud - the military is a separate society operating under the UCMJ. You know that and I know that. Dweebs like Ramon Estevez there show us through the acting assignments they take what they fantacize. Joe Biden is showing us the reality - and its a PARTICULARLY bad reality for our military. The task of the elected steward in this nation is to recognize his or her provisional status - and to uphold the public's trust honorably and respectably.

[@bamascubaman]

I'm not a Democrat but I'd sprint to the polls to vote for a president like this. A hell of a lot better than any we've had in a good little while.

[@tmoneygamestudio]

He is based on President Bill Clinton. All the senior West Wing staff under Clinton were advisors on the first two seasons of the show.

[@nedsantos1415]

No, you won't. You will hear Trump's voice and run to his embrace because Trump is your God.

[@shanekilpatrick3378]

Yes. Hollywood always provides better than the real thing. Hank Fonda in Fail Safe, Frederick March in Seven Days in May, Michael Douglas in The American President. 😀

[@badnoodlez]

​@@nedsantos1415lol fukkin wut? You've got a screw loose.

[@VulcanLogic]

I'm not either but the majority membership of the other party wants an actual theocracy, so that leaves me little choice.

[@stephendavidbailey2743]

As a lifelong victim of Leviticus, this cut is intensely satisfying.

[@terrypetersen2970]

Oh but every verse he quoted was taken out of context. We don't hate anyone different than us. This is the common excuse. Hold on gotta get my rubber boots that excuse is beyond full of crap.

[@stephendavidbailey2743]

@@terrypetersen2970I am a lifelong - 76 year - victim of leviticus. You don't know anything. Buzz off.

[@ditzygypsy]

I hope you understand that we do not follow the old laws anymore. The only dietary restrictions specified for Christians in the New Testament are to "abstain from food sacrificed to idols, from blood, from meat of strangled animals" (Acts 15:29). Christ came and fulfilled the old laws (Matthew 5:17) and then gave us the new law: “I give you a new law: Have love one for another; even as I have had love for you, so are you to have love one for another.” John 13:34 Cheers from Canada!

[@terrypetersen2970]

@@ditzygypsy yet many christians today use the old testament to give credence to their bigotry and hate.

[@tomooo2637]

​@@ditzygypsy you do realise 54% of Americans believe the world is 4500 years old and the entire bible is word for word correct. Welcome to america

[@somersetcace1]

"No one believes the bible means what it says. They are convinced it says what they mean." - George Bernard Shaw

[@justafanintexas7913]

He also said, "All generalities are false, including this one."

[@somersetcace1]

@@justafanintexas7913 fair point

[@octopibingo]

Shaw's in Hell.

[@somersetcace1]

@@octopibingo You mean until judgement day when all will be judged. Right? You're not judging his soul yourself right? I mean that wouldn't be biblical, or would it? Let's hear your version. I'm sure it's riveting.

[@sensoukami]

oh, that's a good one! Never heard that one before, it's now one of my favorite quotes ever.

[@curetiamhices289]

I had a co-worker who used the Bible to support his views. I finally told him not everyone believes in the Bible and the Constitution gives us freedom of religion and freedom from religion. I also directed him to this video to show you can’t cherry pick the parts of the Bible that suit your beliefs.

[@phishfearme2]

"No one believes the bible means what it says. They are convinced it says what they mean." - George Bernard Shaw

[@bavariancarenthusiast2722]

Did it work?

[@curetiamhices289]

@@bavariancarenthusiast2722 No

[@bavariancarenthusiast2722]

@@curetiamhices289 I am sorry to hear that - we need to find a way to communicate to them too. but....

[@deniseeulert2503]

My father's church was literalist, but he also had a strange sense of humor. He told us about how, when he was in the Army in the early 50's there were two guys who were Seventh Day Adventists. He asked why they thought Saturday was the proper day for worship and they said it was because that was the seventh day of the week. Dad asked what a "day" was and the guys talked about the sun rising and setting, so he said that in Genesis the sun and moon weren't created on the first "day," so what about that?

[@FoxfirePoet]

It's heartbreaking that we have to look to dated fiction to see how a President should behave.

[@andrewcrowder4958]

We had an excellent example from 2008 through 2016, and we have a pretty good one right now.

[@markboozer3234]

Hahahahaha!!!! You call what sleepy joe and his criminal family does a good thing?? You are delusional.

[@xeltanni8999]

​@@andrewcrowder4958Do we? Look at all the horrible things that have been allowed to happen these last few years. He is way better than the last guy, no question, but my god is that ever a low bar.

[@erics1140]

@@xeltanni8999not trying to be confrontational am Genuinely interested in what's been allowed to happen.

[@michaelmorningstar8645]

You could just look to Biden. He's doing a nearly perfect job.

[@Conan_the_Based]

Yeah, sure, Martin Sheen, great job. Woo. But the real scene stealer is Row Lowe just taking that crab puff.

[@rachelzahava8292]

I'm just realizing now that Sam walking up to this lady and taking her crab puff was a very Ainsley thing to do...

[@Sickoftheinsanity]

This was the best tv show ever-the writing, directing and acting were sublime.

[@kitano0]

As powerful and memorable as this scene is...I always forget the cream puff bit, and I always LMAO!

[@harshvrdhn001]

i love the way sam just came and took crab cake off her plate in the end

[@ScottStathis]

I never watched this show. But, I've watched this scene over and over again. Because it is AWESOME!

[@xeltanni8999]

You should watch it; it is incredibly good. It is from a bygone era where people had their political party but "bipartisanship" was seen as a virtue and not a four-letter word.

[@DarrellPoe]

Watch the show!!! It’s SO good!!

[@macrumpton]

I wish I hadn't seen it, so I could see it for the first time.

[@brianfreeman8290]

WATCH THE SHOW !!! It is a masterpiece. It will make you laugh, and make you cry. In my opinion, it is THE greatest piece of drama anywhere in the world, ever. Just one word of caution, you will be hooked from the getgo !

[@farfignewgenfrackenheimer8865]

Watch the whole series Brilliantly written, acted and riveting to watch

[@MaxMercuryAnonymous]

Love the mixed fabric comment. Take her to the cleaners, Jed!

[@philliphoppitt3909]

One of my favourite scenes of the show. Which given the fact there are so many good ones is quite the feat.

[@heinleinreader]

This is perhaps one of my three favorite scenes EVER for the entire series. The dressing down that Bartlet gives to Dr. "TIGHTASS" was spectacularly written by Sorkin, but even more spectacularly performed by Martin Sheen. This should be required viewing for anyone who tries to hide behind the Bible to try and force the vast majority to abide by what is, in reality, a minority opinion in anything.

[@Hal09i]

And don't forget the Quran-- you want to include the Islamic faith in that view as well, right?

[@heinleinreader]

@@Hal09i You are aware that more than a billion people practice some variant of Islam, right? That hardly qualifies it as a minority view worldwide. However, the episode didn't mention Islam, therefore I didn't mention it. Are you trying to pick a fight where none should exist? Whenever you use ANY religious tenets to force others to live by a set of standards other than those they choose, you are in the wrong. That was what the episode was saying with that bit. Surely even you can figure that much out, right? If not, I truly pity your lack of intellectual viability in that instance if that is the case.

[@Hal09i]

I'm not sure what numbers have to do with this. There are about 2.3 billion Christians in the world today. You're aware of THAT, right? And no, not trying to pick a fight. Just pointing out that a lot of people feel comfortable attacking Christians and believers and don't think twice about it. Yet these same people will not dare to do the same with the followers of the Islamic faith--even TV writers. Can you imagine a scene like this with the woman character as a Muslim follower of the Islamic faith? Can you imagine the character of Jed Bartlet parsing the Quran as he does the bible in this episode? I can't. Now why is that? I get a little tired of the hypocrisy and call it out. And we won't get in to tolerance, diversity, and inclusion, or the lack there of. Here endeth the lesson.@@heinleinreader

[@PacoOtis]

Wow! As a Vietnam vet aged person and lifelong anti-theist I certainly appreciate this video and thank everyone so very much for sharing! Best of luck, to all of us!

[@Saturnia2014]

@foot bru You can explain it to me; as somebody who grew up in a Jehovah witness household and is still processing the emotional abuse of it

[@stephendavidbailey2743]

Anti-theist. Here is my take on religion. Religion and testosterone are the two most destructive forces on earth.

[@lonnieeastin6401]

I know you won't like this. But I will pray for you.

[@lonnieeastin6401]

@foot bru Ummm, OK. If it makes you feel better about yourself. Go for it. "christiian assault"? Are you talking about the Crusades or something. Buy hey! You do You.

[@lonnieeastin6401]

"but how else do I tell a christian that their practices aren't welcome?" Which practices? Feeding millions of hungry people in Africa? "'m talking about a christian forcing their practices unasked." That's the great commandment that Jesus said to the first churched. But "forced"? Christians haven't taken up arms since, What? The Crusades? Hey man, believe what you want. I'll still pray for you.

[@YorkDLance]

I have watched every episode twice. This one stuck with me, year after year. The writing was genius. The acting just right. 💙

[@marcusjackson5694]

To this day I will never understand why someone doesn't do this to every single idiot that thinks that book should have anything to do with anyone else's life much less governing policy.

[@CaptainPikeachu]

Because the religious right still holds a lot of sway and power and financial backing. If we actually cut off the ties between political support and financial support, you will see a lot of politicians behaving differently. But when money is what gets you elected, no politician is gonna stand on their “principles” and speak out in fear of losing financial support, especially someone on the Republican side

[@wideawake5630]

Can't agree more and it's my book! I am a retired Christian minister who believes firmly in the separation of church and state.

[@Sldejo]

And who’s Moral Law should be abide by? Yours? Stealing, lying and getting caught is what keeps politicians in their place most of the time. I bet you even have locks on your car and house to keep people from stealing. Where is that Law found? 🤔 Oh yeah, The Book.

[@dennyii5292]

One of the best scenes ever!!!! ............How Martin doesn't have am entire shelf FULL of *Emmy Awards* is beyond me.

[@tankmaster1018]

First clip I've ever seen from The West Wing... I am highly impressed

[@macforme]

tankamster1018: It was a crime against...... something ...when they cancelled it.

[@ptsmithcruises]

@@macforme They didn't cancel it. The show just ended after seven seasons.

[@macforme]

@@ptsmithcruises Thanks for the clarification. I guess it was better to end on a high note than, like so many other shows, ...they jump the shark.

[@Aquasure1977]

Hope you had a chance to go back and watch it all.

[@macforme]

@@Aquasure1977 Well, I have... I have all 7 seasons on DVD (bought used). I'm old fashioned, comparatively speaking. (no cable TV🙅🏻)

[@Barneyrubble241]

An absolutely fantastic show. I may need to binge this again.

[@GabrielGranatowicz]

Never seen this show, but watched this scene a million times! Other level of acting, holy cow!

[@jhyacinth]

Was there ever a scene better written, acted or directed? A masterpiece in under 4 minutes

[@michaelkarnerfors9545]

Yeah, well... the debate scene from the opening of The Newsroom sort of kicks it out of the park. It was the scene that got Sorkin and everyone else an actual contract with HBO to do the rest of the series, they did not have that before then. But when Jeff Daniels had several of the tops of HBO _weeping_ at "Enough?"...

[@Javiercastillo-tw4ce]

It’s a great scene….

[@fayesouthall6604]

Humiliation with a bow on 😊

[@fredwright5954]

yes, plenty. the bartlett guy was giving the typical ignorant and arrogant dogma

[@doctaflo]

@@fredwright5954 , well go ahead - let’s hear the counter argument - i always found this scene a bit masturbatory, but i don’t know the opposing talking points. enlighten us!

[@Ddrhl]

Brilliant writing. Brilliant delivery. Brilliant basis to use to debate belief vs fact.

[@Maxx61]

What's comical is the scene's reminder of how many PhD's raise their hand when a flight attendant asks "attention, do we have a doctor onboard?"

[@bixfrisbee2623]

A better question would be, "Is there a physician on board?"

[@jacplanespotting314]

thank you for providing an unfortunate laugh for me!

[@nathaliek9451]

I can listen to his speech over and over again and never tire of it!

[@Mags1906]

Me too! ❤

[@RandomFandomDragon]

This scene will never get old.

[@ScottGammans]

To this day, at 3:08 when Bartlet narrows his eyes at “Dr. Jenna” I get a little thrill. Martin Sheen and Aaron Sorkin at their absolute best.

[@bethfiori4708]

The best! Still gives me chills! He fights the literal-minded with his knowledge of the text and then demands respect not for himself, but for the office. Kudos to the writers, Martin Sheen, and the whole production.

[@ilyassharafuddin2426]

MAN MADE LAWS CORRUPTION CONCOCTION OF BIBLE USED TO DISCREDIT GOD SEND LAW WHAT A MISQUOTE

[@courtneyconaway3091]

No screenwriter is better at making strawmen for his characters to destroy than Sorkin

[@user-du2of3lh1g]

Over a decade later and this is still relevant

[@katebc9148]

This show excelled in life, politics, and education! Best ever. I watched it originally and via reruns and bits and pieces. Never gets old, never out of date. And the acting is superb.

[@jonflanagin6682]

I have watched West Wing for years and Bartlet act more like a President then anyone we have had in office for years.

[@Sbamabelle]

One of my favorite moments of the show...

[@gordongo7919]

true. I also like the carving knife episode and when the President gives Charlie his family knife, with the initials P R on it.

[@LazyJack2003]

Thank you, Mr. Sorkin, for this timeless episode! Love it!

[@kilroy8989]

In other words don't quote one rule unless you are going to quote them all.

[@DanSSF4AE]

true that

[@Chakra_king]

Unless there is a WHOLE SECOND COVANENT that directly out rules many of those laws.

[@justafanintexas7913]

Or, don't pick what's convenient to the discussion at hand.

[@Arocedric]

@@Chakra_king God, all-powerful, all-knowing and the ultimate being in the universe - but can't even execute his plans properly the first time. The literal master of the universe needs a WHOLE SECOND COVENANT? With the insignificant humans he created? Lol. That's pretty pathetic.

[@JJ-iu5hl]

Times change, smart guy.

[@lecanas1]

This is the most excellent interaction in a TV show, I love it!😂

[@sheila_bluemanc]

I love that scene - it’s one of many amazing scenes in The West Wing.

[@michaeldelfine3520]

I miss this show. We need that kind of leader today. Someone not afraid to call out supposed "christian's" hypocrisy.

[@835g]

This is why I loved this show from day 1 . The whole cast was incredible. The writing outstanding. They don't make shows like this anymore

[@SlimThrull]

House comes pretty close.

[@rodmarr1844]

Well...Game of Thrones...except season 8!

[@frontagulus]

Of course they do. And it was fine, not like they're curing cancer or anything - just playing pretend

[@JohnSmith-im8qt]

@@frontagulus you do understand there are degrees right? Not everyone is Daniel day fucking Lewis. The guy built his own log cabin using period tools and methods to prepare for last of the mohicans. He had to do physical therapy to relearn how to walk after my left foot. He got good enough to go pro as a boxer just to prepare for a role. You absolutely could not do what he does.

[@sandrajohnson4778]

So true.

[@roidroid]

i'm an ex-christian fundamentalist (athiest for ~10 years), and have been trying hard to forget all of my indoctrinated useless Bible knowledge since. But this past few days, i've been pondering getting back into it, and keeping that Bible knowledge neat and maintained in my head. Because i really miss having that skill of being able to put religious biggots back in their place using their very own scriptures.

[@DragonBallZVSNarutoShippuden]

+roidroid I didn't think an athiest would ever become a christian.. Normally athiest hates on all religion.

[@patrik79a]

+Dragon Ball Super V.S Naruto Shippuden he doesn't say that

[@helenafarkas4534]

I was once told by a religious nutjob in the course of doing my goddamned JOB that Jesus sent his only son to die for our sins. yes, you read that right. JESUS sent his son to die on the cross for us. I was only in her room to pick up her trash and she ranted at me for nearly fifteen straight minutes and got something so basic so completely WRONG.

[@fe5018]

roidroid, you should get back at it. That's a noble goal.

[@samahirrao]

I think, you cant win hate by hate. It is maticulous process. Open your own mind to feeling sympathy for them and use your smartness to let them see your intent. If they still want to stick to their beliefs. Do not interfere. But educate your kids. This is anyway the last century of most of the major religions. No matter you do something or don't Darwin axe will cut this cancer from earth very soon.

[@battleborn1055]

As a Christian, I 100% agree with him. I hate how people are so quick to "forget" about the sins in the bible that fit they're lifestyle, but are so quick to jump at anyone who is gay or listens to dark music or smokes weed or does anything like that. Now 2 of these examples I've listened apply to me, and it does not make me any less of a Christian then holy Joe who goes to church every Sunday. We are all sinners, forgiven by God and saves by grace. And it's time we remember that

[@barrymorrisss]

What exactly is a Christian??

[@battleborn1055]

@@barrymorrisss someone who had accepted Jesus Christ as their lord and savior

[@barrymorrisss]

@@battleborn1055 Tell me exactly what that means.

[@andrewross4685]

@@barrymorrisssI think they already did. What part of the answer was difficult for you to grasp?

[@omnivorous65]

Or we take these absurd obligations and disproportional punishments as ample proof that the good book was written by humans reflecting not eternal wisdom but very narrow local, historical and social mores.

[@robindew9072]

I miss the West Wing. It truly was a well written TV Show with Wonderful characters. Martin Sheen Played the President very well.

[@derrikgilmore5975]

I NEVER get tired of watching this scene. Though I do feel a bit sorry for Claire Yarlett - this is the scene she'll always be remembered for... 🙂

[@OldMtnGeezer]

Good point. I remember thinking the same thing. But boy, did she nail that scene! The mark of a good actor. And those whose opinions matter will recognize her performance for what it was - simply a great performance.

[@Ryvaken]

Yeah, being ranted at by a nut who thinks he knows more about scripture than he does. Half the things he names are on the order of "this is something you should wash your hands after" and he's comparing that to something called out specifically as an abomination. Amazingly, context matters.

[@AmbersKnight]

@@Ryvaken Yes but why is being gay seen as an abomination? The problem with the whole justification for bigotry against gay people is that it doesn't stand up to scrutiny. In order to even remotely justify the Bible's views on homosexuals you have to climb a stairway of logic so to speak, where each step is from the one preceding it so if the argument falters on any step the person cannot continue up the stairway. so here are the steps: 1) You have to prove that there is a deity. 2) You then have to prove that there is only one deity, not a pantheon. 3) You then have to prove that this deity created humanity. 4) You then have to prove that this deity still gets involved with us. 5) You then have prove that the involvement is more than just watching and occasionally stirring up the odd storm and such as a test. 6) You then have to prove that this involvement includes direct communication. 7) You then have to prove that the person's who were communicated with understood what was being said. 8) You then have to prove that amongst the things discussed was the deity's views on homosexuals. 9) You then have to prove that the deity's words and views were accurately reported back by the listener, and not changed or amended based on misunderstanding the intention or from any personal bias the listnere may have. 10) You then have to prove that those views have been accurately translated through the centuries, again without misunderstanding, miscommunication or bias. 11) You then have to prove that this deity still feels the way they did about homosexuals. That they still hold that same view and have not deviated from their original viewpoint. 12) And then, crucially, you have to prove that the deity is right. And no, them being the deity doesn;t automatically make that deity right. Those are the steps. I've never yet met anyone who can even prove step 1, let alone beyond that. But even if someone were to somehow get through all 12 steps with reliable evidence (the Bible is not evidence by the way, it is at best hearsay and conjecture) I still would disagree with tha deity. But if there is a deity up there, I would expect them to be of beter stuff and not some ignorant bigot.

[@DXGypsy]

​​@@RyvakenNice try. He mentioned selling his daughter into slavery, putting someone to death for working on the Sabbath, stoning his brother for planting crops incorrectly, and burning his mother for mixed fabrics. None of those are "unclean hands" proclamations. The only unclean hands issue was the one about touching a football. So back down and try to think of something better. Oh, and the character of President Bartlett was a graduate of Notre Dame and was considering becoming a priest He graduated with a B.A. in American Studies and a minor in theology. As written by Sorkin he's probably far better versed on the Bible than any tight assed bigot either on the show or here in the comment section.

[@sophiafullerton]

As a rational Christian, I absolutely love this scene. The president's questions were perfect to unseat the fanatic and also utilize similar rhetoric to what Jesus used many times in the Gospels to snap the Pharisees and other religious leaders out of their worship of the law and back to the worship of God. I feel like this scene works on so many levels and it's one of many reasons I love this show. Honestly, Bartlet is such a stark contrast to our current president that it makes me wish that fiction could become reality in this case. Imagine what our world would be like if our politicians actually cared about other people and doing what is best for the country, which is a consistent theme in The West Wing. Sadly, in today's political climate, it seems such a thing is more impossible than God being raised from the dead.... That doesn't stop me from hoping, though.

[@gothcat54]

The thing that I loved about this scene was, whether you take literally anything and EVERYthing the Bible says or not, was how he put this pompous, fundamentalist bitch in her place for basically, "cherry picking" certain things that she agrees with and/or disapproves of the message behind the Bible says about that particular sentiment, but sidestepping and, for all intents and purposes-ignoring, other things the Bible says. It's the epitome of two faced and double standard! "It's okay if the Bible says that homosexuality is an abomination because I obviously think that it is as well, but the OTHER stuff that the Bible says, uh... oh...never mind about that!" Classic!

[@sophiafullerton]

Why do you believe worship is a negative thing? Everyone worships something. It's what or who you worship that impacts your actions for better or for worse. I believe that's the whole point of Bartlet "owning the religious nut". The "religious nut" was worshipping money while claiming to worship a higher power. What or who do you worship?

[@themancuniancandidate2744]

It's commendable that you recognise the appalling morality of the OT laws. But, if I may ask, you as a Christian can't separate those laws from the Ten Commandments, surely one of the cornerstones of Christianity. Jesus flat out states that he did not come to destroy the old laws, but to fulfil them, no?

[@sophiafullerton]

@The Mancunian Candidate Jesus said the entire law was summed up into two simple commands: love God and love your neighbor, and "do to others what you would have them do to you for this sums up the law and the prophets." If one follows the letter of every law and yet misses these basic principles, then they have completely missed the point of what God was trying to train people to do. God has always wanted us to love him and acknowledge him and to treat each other and the earth with kindness and respect. This is a consistent theme from the OT to the NT. The book of Hosea, for example, focuses on God mourning the broken relationship with his creation and especially with his chosen people Isreal. Everyone was falling short of the ideal, yet God loved them anyway and pursued them using metaphors of romantic love. Jesus quotes from Hosea 6:6 when he confronts the Pharisees in Matt 9:13 for their condemnation of "sinners" who had broken the law, both Jewish traditions and the Ten Commandments, while themselves missing the "love your neighbor" aspect of the law. The full text of Hosea 6:6 spells out God's desire for us to love each other and worship him rather than perfectly following rituals and rules: "For I desire mercy, not sacrifice, and acknowledgment of God rather than burnt offerings."

[@solomonmundo5229]

@@sophiafullerton Jesus most likely learned of the "Golden Rule" from the writings/stories of Rav Hillel (blessed be his memory). Quote from Rav Hillel: "That which is hateful to you, do not do unto your fellow. That is the whole Torah; the rest is commentary; now go and learn."

[@vcdep991]

If that was a continuous take that’s one hell of a piece of acting and line memorization.

[@markcognetti4875]

Exquisite perfection

[@timgriffin3368]

Yes, but not

[@MrPernell27]

Never saw a single episode and I’m not sure how I got to this video. However I think I’m gonna have to go back and watch

[@stormwatcher59]

Thank you for posting, I knew I wasn't alone! Now I want to see West Wing ...from the beginning.

[@alexsmith319]

I know this comment is late, but I hope you're enjoying the journey. It's an amazing show.

[@ninabriesch4184]

please do. but be warned.. if you are american you might go mad ;-)

[@superdoobo]

Bit -Torrent.

[@cdubbau135]

@@superdoobo Netflix.

[@tellurye]

I love how she challenges him by remaining seated but he doesnt back down and stares at her, she finally relents.

[@thosetwodudes]

So perfect, it's not even possible to describe how perfect this scene is, as well as many others on this show. The West Wing was not perfect, but there are plenty of scenes, and even full episoes, that are truly, Perfect.

[@Scyllax]

Footballs are not made of pigs' skins.

[@54tristin]

M. Hall who cares

[@Scyllax]

The commentator said the scene was "so perfect".

[@SlyWolf5]

@@Scyllax “Many historians note that before the 1850s was once made from the tanned skin of a pig" So yes, they once were. You are partially correct, they currently are not and have not been for a long time.

[@tomelmore8431]

Well - of COURSE you'd think it's perfect. It's a TV show script written by nihilist/Sangerite ghouls. At least they hadn't murdered millions around the world with COVID yet - only 60-or-so MILLION innocent unborn American babies - but COVID was INEVITABLE once people started figuring out their game.

[@scoobstopb]

Martin Sheen's voice is so smooth it's like velvet.

[@brooksamon]

Martin Sheen is one of the greatest actors of all time.

[@TheKyle666]

As is his son, though not a chip off the old block

[@Aquasure1977]

@@TheKyle666 Emilo is good, but not as great.

[@timweaver7826]

This was the first episode and I knew it was going to be awesome after seeing this.

[@jonelfilipek7848]

And to rub salt in the wound, Sam takes her shrimp puff. Beginning to end, one of the greatest scenes of any television show.

[@mfisher1952]

The West Wing has to be one of the greatest shows ever put on TV. And the addition of Ainsley Hayes (not shown here) made it even better.

[@kaicreech7336]

My favorite part: This President is a Catholic. Unlike 90% of Christians, he doesn't use relegion as an excuse to stop thinking.

[@TheHigherVoltage]

To be a devout Catholic (like any devotion to any theistic or polytheistic religion I'm familiar with), requires one to 'stop thinking' to accept the contradictory and nonsensical tenants as 'truth'.

[@michelbeauregard7326]

@@TheHigherVoltage The present Pope believes in evolution, not creationism. I guess one can be Catholic and still think.

[@TheHigherVoltage]

@@michelbeauregard7326 Thinking has nothing to do with intellectual honesty. If the Pope was intellectually honest, he couldn't be a Catholic in the first place.

[@michelbeauregard7326]

@@TheHigherVoltage I'm an agnostic and anticlerical so it is easy for me to agree with you.

[@justafanintexas7913]

@@TheHigherVoltage - As a matter of fact, that's all he could be. Or should he be an opportunistic, Zionist Christian like Pastor Hagee in San Antonio, covering all bases?

[@ericjohnson6665]

One of my favorite scenes from The West Wing!

[@totaltcl1099]

I like the irony that if shed been standing, this wouldn't have happened!

[@jpx8793]

Yep. That whole confrontation and burn could have been easily avoided if she'd been standing with the others when he entered the room.

[@markherbert1524]

Between this speech and his initial entrance near the end of the pilot episode, I’m not sure which packs more punch. I for one am glad they chose to make President Bartlett’s role more prominent.

[@NavDDG54]

That's ultimately why Robb Lowe left the show, it was originally supposed to have been centered around him. But Sheen was so perfect the showrunners circled to him and that pissed off Lowe

[@duaneullery2133]

I so very much miss this series with its well drawn characters and crackling writing.

[@Audiogeek-kf2ez]

I always thought that was one of the best scenes of the entire series.

[@glenbateman5960]

My favorite scene from this masterfully written, masterfully performed show. That was pure savagery. The Sword of Truth.

[@aer71367]

Damn that scene was so on point!!!

[@ukulkarni]

After every time I watch Trump's press conference on T.V., I have to watch a snippet from West wing for my head to spinning. I need this fiction to reduce the suffering inflicted by reality.

[@johnpglackin345]

I think you mean Biden.

[@Mish844]

@@johnpglackin345 Biden is a republican?

[@johnpglackin345]

@@Mish844 the Democrats are evil. And the conservatives are the Good guys.

[@Mish844]

@@johnpglackin345 conservatives were never any kind of good guyus. Not american ones at least

[@johnpglackin345]

@@Mish844 we are. You guys are always trying to oppressed people. And make sure to they stay poor. Thanks to people like you we have a brain dead person in office.

[@johnkling6657]

One of the series' best scenes EVER!

[@LycanSoul]

Let me preference this with I'm finding my way back to religion after being bitter and resentful toward it for years. To me there is just something so overwhelmingly powerful about watching someone be able to challenge or I guess recognize faults or loopholes in their faith but still maintain it. I know I know it's just a character in a TV show but still watching scenes like this stirs something in me.

[@Kate09090]

I think that’s one of the most fun parts of engaging with fiction! Sure, it’s just a tv show, but it was (in some cases like this one) meant to reflect reality. So we find ourselves in the stories and relate to the characters. People who dismiss that with “chill it’s just a tv show” are really missing out, I think. I wish you the best in your journey with religion. :)

[@BrimHawk]

Preface, not preference.

[@sjs1555]

Run along wacko. Your imaginary friend is calling you.

[@quintonsm2616]

An honest question, why would you want to go back to religion? Have you thought about the truth behind any doctrine or theistic claims.

[@phishfearme2]

@@quintonsm2616 "thinking" is not in any religious creed

[@stevestryker]

One of the greatest scenes in TV history

[@Martin-pb7ts]

In my opinion this is the best TV series ever made.

[@MORE1500]

Only on a TV show could something like this happen.

[@tkusterb]

But we can dream, can't we?

[@joshkarena3058]

I am glad this scene appeared on U-Tube, it gave me a chance to hear what the President had said to this lady and Bibles quotations. Awesome scene.

[@disillusionedidealist3446]

One of the best scenes ever….love the show, love the man.

[@carlleavey]

I loved this show, true classic TV at it's best.

[@piotrd.4850]

Line about "when President stands, nobody seats" - absolute ! It is not about religious view - but clearly lays down RESPECT FOR THE OFFICE and decent behaviour!

[@tomelmore8431]

"Respect for the office and decent behavior?" The founders of the nation stated that all the powers of the Republic reside permanently ONLY in the people themselves - and that the purpose of government is to secure THEIR rights and act in good faith on THEIR behalf. They also stated that when any form of government becomes destructive of this construct, it is the right of the people to take that government DOWN. A president who insists that "this building" is his own - and talks down to citizen/guests there as if he were something more than a citizen himself is unworthy of the office and ought to be slam-dunked. Little Mr. Estevez's characterization of an American president may well be reflective of his own dismissal of the nature of this republic. He ain't a god. He ain't a king. He's a temporary steward whose legitimacy hinges on his faithful service - not on any imagined power to order citizens around.

[@rodneymccoy8108]

Funny, how things that go around come around. When these liberal writers made up this line about “standing in respect” for the president, little did they realize that within a few years, taking a knee would be in fashion when the national anthem was played and these very same liberals would be cheering it on. We don’t elect a king, we elect a president who by our very Constitution is seen as no more, or less, than each of us.

[@jpx8793]

Yep. She's entitled to her personal perspective. That's her business. If she'd been standing with the others when he entered the room, then none of that would have come up.

[@stevehirlehey3354]

Such a great series!

[@keithygadget381]

Still one of the best TV shows ever. I’m not American but I wanted to vote for Jed Bartlet

[@TomTrimborn]

This is the most incisive and powerful scene in modern times (relevant yesterday, today, and I fear in the future). In just a few minutes it says everything that needs to be said. Brillant. on every possible level.

[@Rebel-Forces-Earth-007]

I'm not a liberal or a democrat, but I do love that episode, and loved Martin Sheen in that role, great show.

[@perfectionbox]

If it was Boebert she'd just continually scream I DON'T CARE YOU'RE A SINNER LA LA LA LA

[@sawtooth808]

While going on about how President Bartlett is into human sacrifice, and “pizza” 🙄🤦‍♂️

[@captainbrexit]

Im just gonna take that crab puff

[@intorainbowzOG]

Johnny Knight crab isn't kosher. Lol

[@philledwith8307]

This was my favourite line of the whole scene. It just put that oh so essential full stop on the ass-kicking, and Rob Lowe as Sam delivered it with just the right slightly apologetic tone.

[@Scyllax]

and wrap it in some bacon

[@kathymoser9750]

Always loved West Wing. Now I am going to binge watch season after season of West Wing !!!

[@paolomarchi5936]

I haven’t watched west wing in years. But this seen never gets old, I am reminded how incredible the writing is. Sheer Brilliance.

[@rottingcorpse6002]

This was the scene that hooked me into this show. Fell in love with all the characters.

[@sylviamcauley8454]

Another incredible series, perfect writing, perfect cast

[@merrybluegirl8930]

I believe this might be one of the best written scenes in broadcast television history.

[@whtygr23]

This scene was in the pilot episode of West , and it had a nice mixture of calm-n-cool sprinkled with high n mighty

[@TheGreatSeraphim]

Don't forget the part about not shaving your beard, not being fat, and not eating shellfish.

[@fe5018]

TheGreatSeraphim, the shellfish bit offends me most here. I love seafood.

[@hermangre]

When was this? The time of Leviticus? That's apparently when Moses 'flourished', about 1200BC or so, according to our best interpretation of the Bible stories. Are they good today? Some yes, some no.

[@lohancindy5442]

But crab good

[@sensoukami]

prohibitions against eating shellfish alone is enough to keep me away from the bible...hmmm...shrimp...

[@adarkerstormishere]

Also, you're not allowed to worship if your junk is damaged.

[@indigowolf556]

Best show ever! Writing magnificent. I love when he tells this bible thumper off.

[@chashue6032]

After the debacle and hypocrisy of the "laying of hands" on Trump in 2016, we need more of this kind of pushback.

[@henridobbs2423]

this was beautifully written.

[@Caleb_lil_bro]

Oh he just dropped the mic with that. Oh yeah

[@mikewhite3936]

Actually it's a script written by a handful of Atheists and Agnostics read by an actor.

[@codywalsh2075]

@@mikewhite3936 naaaaaah thought Santa him fucking self wrote the script

[@garyconyers]

In real life a fundamentalist Christian would have responded to all of those points as they have heard them all before. Their response may not have made any real sense, but points would be vehemently argued.

[@juliestedfast361]

I love this scene so much! I have thought about it over the years.

[@GhostOfMrPickles]

perfect way to treat those who believe their religion should hold dominion over those who aren't members.

[@hidesertroamer]

Love it! What an argument against the “religious” right, pointing out the hypocrisy and lies.

[@michaelnadel8]

No. It's belittling someone for their beliefs. And propping up Christians that don't believe in the Bible and it's teachings but say they are Christian. Hollywood at its finest.

[@hidesertroamer]

@@michaelnadel8 Yes, because Christians NEVER belittle people that aren’t carbon copies of them.

[@nudist1033]

@ 2:05 I love Toby's 'head turn" as if he's saying "here it comes"...