I Don't Write about Politics

But I write a lot about not writing about politics.

Yo, check it.

(How funny is it that you can see my Ollie North book and Reagan bio in the background?)

Comments

[cynthia]

sorry to be dense but i don't 'get' the me and daisy post..please explain someone

[Kathy]

Jen, what a great article!!! I love your politics. I have to admit, though, if you were passionate about the other candidate I wouldn't appreciate you as much as I do.

And you picture? Fabulous!!! You look amazing.

[Me]

Jen,

You're awesome. I'm through your second book now and I can't wait for the fourth so that I don't have slow down my reading (thank God you blog or I'd go into withdrawal). You're hilarious and a joy to read. I'm not big on either party as I generally have a libertarian bent. As an immigrant from the Soviet Union, I'm really glad to find an amazing popular author who isn't a Marxist. Finally.

[grad3]

I think it's great that you are openly talking about who you support- I am not so brave. People get passionate and then lose their minds...

You look wonderful in your pic!!

[Boston]

Thank you Thank you Thank you for mostly keeping your politics out of your writing. I have to be honest that having read that you enjoy Anne Coulter will make it a little more difficult for me to indulge in your humor. But it also gives me hope that maybe we can all co-exist, no matter what the talking heads say.

PS: I'm really entertained by all the comment posters basically having a political conversation here ... while congratulating you for not doing so.

[megan canny]

Again thank you for knowing that we can form our own opinions and don't need you to go on a tangent to do so.

[Faith]

I admire the careful balance in your personal and professional life, but I HAVE to say that I am so glad that one author I love is actually a Republican. I am sick and tired of authors like: Lorna Landvik, Janelle Brown,etc., inserting irrelevant passages to their story lines. I'm a teacher and I work with quite a few democrat supporters. They know where I stand but I don't feel the need to voice my preference at every opportunity and neither do they. Thanks for being yourself.

[Tasha]

I think I like you even more now. First, that you share my political views AND then the idea that they are personal and not to bang people over the head with. Also, I love sunglasses as a headband, it's my summer staple.

[Jen in Indy]

My humble opinion... Your views are pretty clear in your books and it doesn't turn me off... they are YOUR MEMOIRS! Politics are personal. I don't even share my vote with my own mother (and it drives her nuts)! I doubt that you would be less entertaining as a Ron Paul supporter. (OK, maybe...) Differences are what makes the world go 'round!! Loved the interview. As always you are articulate and intelligent. You ROCK!

[HeatherB]

YOU are awesome! Thank you for being hysterical and making my day!
I actualy printed out your picture and hung it in my cubical at work. (And it might say "I love you Jen!" under it.) So now my co-workers may think that I have switched sides - but then I get to shamelesly promote your books as well :) My Husband and I have an understanding- I loose out to Bill O'Reilly and he looses out when a new Jen Lancaster book or post comes out! I think you should have your own TV show just to make it fair....

[Daphne]

That's a great interview, Jen, and I really like that you explain why you stay away from political discussions on your blog. Even though I'm a democrat I wouldn't mind reading your thoughts, but I respect why you don't do it here.

[Sarah]

Oh if only the liberals in the media had the same viewpoint as Jen on sharing their political beliefs. I'm a Republican and lately have stopped supporting many in the media because I cannot take the liberal bias being injected. For example, Perez Hilton. I LOVE me some celebrity gossip but he posts multiple political posts on his page per day and most of them are liberal leaning and many of them are taken out of context. I've had to limit my usage of his site as a result.

I agree with what Beth said below about having to be a secret Republican. When I admit to people (especially those in my age group - 24) that I'm very much a conservative I get looks like I belong on another planet.

[Kelly]

How funny is it that Ann Coulter linked to that interview before you did?

[Beth]

As David Zucker says, "You sort of feel like you have to hide it. When you meet, you give each other a secret look, 'Are you a Republican, too?' It's the new gay."

So true!! I'm not sure how much longer I'm going to be able to keep silent as my just barely legal enough co-workers keep squawking that McCain is older than Alaska.

And these are the people who are breeding like rabbits and said rabbits are the people who will be in charge when we are staring at the wall waiting to be turned over in the nursing home.

[Rose]

Congrats on the article! You look lovely!

[AA]

Jen, while I'm more middle of the road political-wise, I really respect how you stand up for what you believe in. I agree with you about the whole "let's keep politics where they belong" and especially hate it when people accepting awards (like Emmys) get all political. And that is an awesome picture of you. I saw your books in Target (my house of worship) yesterday and did a little dance for you.

[erica]

You look beautiful, Miss Jen! As far as show recommendations go: "Greek". It's on the family channel on Tuesdays, but really isn't something I would let my family watch had I opted to procreate. It does, however, bring back great memories of the sorority house and I think you too would find it amusing for that same reason. Can't wait to see the new book!

[Phyllis]

What a beautiful picture! And what a mature-sounding article. I've almost finished reading "Bitter" (read all 3 in reverse order, since I discovered "Pretty Fat" first)and how you've grown! I'm so proud of you. I appreciate having at least one of my favorite authors be conservative. I read another blog (Karyn Bosknak) and get the other perspective. I was just thinking how other than for your (pl) politics, you two are so much alike. At least in how you both make me laugh, and laugh at yourselves.

[nadine]

my sentiments exactly. btw, you look gorgeous, dahling....

[TheBabblingHousewife]

Yeah, I was going to mention your brother's comment, too. "finally proud of you"...maybe your family's holidays will be nicer this year.

[Becky]

Great post - glad to see that there are some young, hip REPUBLICANS out there...

Totally different subject...but have you heard of Twitter? If not - you need to investigate...it's extremely addictive.

[Katie]

As a Republican living in a hippie town (the woes of grad school) I've learned to keep my trap shut about my political views for fear of being attacked on the bus. So, instead, I read your books while riding the bus and snicker to myself about the crazies I'm surrounded by.

[bface]

The comment from Todd was hysterical. You get no respect.

I dunno about the book covers. I have all my book covers (it's a thing with me) and I read in the tub every night. Book cover = built in bookmark.

[Tracie]

While I am a total bleeding heart liberal (Hello?! I work for a non-profit for peanuts?!) but that does not prevent me from enjoying Jen's books. Please don't lump me in with the other idiots who cannot accept that - gasp! - everyone doesn't believe what they do who commented on the article Jen linked. Jen you rock. Even by my bleeding heart liberal standards!! smooch!

[brandi]

WOWZA!!!! Jen14221 looks so much like you!!

[Kristen]

Who's Reagan? That old guy with the jelly beans?

You're only Repub that I'll read - that IS a compliment. Just don't show old on the site please. Then I'll have to put you hold (and notice) until after the election.

[Robin]

One more reason to love you!

[myrtle]

What?? When were you on Oprah??

[Valerie]

Oh my gawsh, great minds think alike ;)

[Sparklesister]

Darn, stinkin', cute photo Miss Jen!!!

[AtlantaDebbie]

Jen, I too loved Reagan, but only after he was elected and I saw the impacts of the Reagan Revolution. Before that, I was a terrible brat who predicted he'd be awful. I had an especially good view of the Revolution, working as a bookkeeper at a small accounting firm and majoring in Accounting in college. Wow, his tax policies made a tremendous positive difference!! I sure wish someone with his abilities was around right now.
And, I too, feel so often attacked by Democrat or Liberal "friends" and family these days. It makes me so sad how cruel and nasty they have become, especially since I was a Democrat pre-Reagan and much of my family is/was Democrats and we used to pride ourselves on being the kinder, gentler party. Not so much anymore.

[Linds]

that piece was very diplomatic...maybe YOU should run for office...i wouldnt vote for you though ;)

[Jen14221]

Jen - I think I'm your (ugly) twin. Check it out: http://jen14221.typepad.com/

[Alli]

I still (and always will) hate Ann Coulter with a burning hot passion, but I heart you, Jenn, for not trying to shove her down my throat. You give me hope that a middle ground can still exist, that we don't always have to agree with each other (on religion, politics, or anything else) to RESPECT and LIKE each other. You are a true gem!!!

[Lauren]

Being a conservative, myself, I too find that it's easier to not discuss politics on the whole. That being said, I too would put my life on hold for Ronald Reagan. Greatest president ever.

Anyway, I am a huge fan- your humor in books is great and I find it extremely refreshing that you are able to hold back on indoctrinating your readers with your political beliefs.

Also, in case you didn't know this already, you're sort of a rockstar.

[Lauren]

Being a conservative, myself, I too find that it's easier to not discuss politics on the whole. That being said, I too would put my life on hold for Ronald Reagan. Greatest president ever.

Anyway, I am a huge fan- your humor in books is great and I find it extremely refreshing that you are able to hold back on indoctrinating your readers with your political beliefs.

Also, in case you didn't know this already, you're sort of a rockstar.

[Dawn]

Aww... Jenn... No... :(

[hebba]

The fact that you respect other's political opinions without caving on your own makes me love your blog even more. It seems that everyone thinks those on the OTHER side are trying to cram those views down their throats. It takes a strong, self assured person to keep your own views, respect others, and not try to forecefully change anyone's mind. ROCK ON!

[Sarah]

Geez guys! If you guys are diehard fans of Jen (ahem..like myself) you would know that the book jackets are gone because it's easier to hold them in the bathtub without the damn jacket. Or a hot tub. ps..Reading in a hot tub=glorious!

The freaking books can slip into the water like wet soap (that I am not going to bend down to get...thank you) with those jackets on....Everybody! Disrobe your books! In the name of water reading! HA!

[Jennifer]

P.S. Sorry Jen - after I hit post I started thinking that my comment about the article may come off as allienating, which is not my intent. I am 100% of the belief that everyone has their own opinions and, because of that, I HATE discussions about politics, sports rivarlies or even Coke vs. Pepsi for that matter. However, in sharing the article with you, I think what bled through in my sarcasm is my frustration with the people who don't even come close to returning the favor.
So sorry. :(

[Jennifer]

Why can't I get to Jen's article??? The page won't load. Grr.

Jen - being the savvy web girl that you are, you've probably already gotten this from someone. But just in case, it's an article published in the NY Times 9 years ago today.

For anyone who is Democrat & subscribes to the belief that Bush is entirely at fault for the banking crisis, I don't recommend you read this for fear of having your reality shattered.

http://query.nytimes.com/gst/fullpage.html?res=9C0DE7DB153EF933A0575AC0A96F958260&sec=&spon=&partner=permalink&exprod=permalink

[Mirinda]

I think we were seperated at birth. Only I was dumb enough to post a political rant on my blog. Reading the emails I got was fun and amusing though!

I say bravo for "coming out" as a Republican. It seems as though it's not really allowed LOL

[Garin]

BRAVO!!! Well said! I really appreciate what you said in the interview because that is how I try and approach my political views in my life. Knowing your audience and their agenda is key to success. Thank you for being such a well spoken, entertaining and sassy woman! Along side of my Harry Potter collection is my Jen Lancaster collection - yes I am a rabid fan of both!

P.S. LOVE the picture too!

[Molly]

It has gotten nasty. You are nice. I say, along with Theodore:

"Be who you are and say what you feel, because those who mind don't matter, and those who matter don't mind." ~Dr. Seuss

F*ck the rest of 'em! ;)

[Bee]

Oh, is it like I Spy? (Because I spy Harry Potter books.)

[SnarkyMommy]

Great article! But I must know why you remove the book jackets? Is this some movement you are starting? Should we all jump on board? Do tell!

[Hollie]

Hey Jen. I followed the links from this posting right back to your 9/8/08 post and I love you even more for writing that. As a reader of your books and website, I really appreciate the respect you showed your readers. Thank you. You are a highlight in my day and all of this right wing/left wing bashing has gotten out of hand. Thanks for seeing that and not participating. I wish more folks were as respectful as you when it comes to such a passionate topic. Love you! Hollie

[Sissa]

Sorry about the double post. I am in fact an automated robot. ...Or maybe just a stupid one. :-)

[Sissa]

Not to mention the ENTIRE Harry Potter series is noticeable on the upper shelf behind you. I don't know what's worse, the Harry Potter next to Reagan and Ollie North, or the fact that I recognized all the books by the lower 1/4th of their cover. Hmmmm. Tricky. Very Tricky.

[Sissa]

Not to mention the ENTIRE Harry Potter series is noticeable on the upper shelf behind you. I don't know what's worse, the Harry Potter next to Reagan and Ollie North, or the fact that I recognized all the books by the lower 1/4th of their cover. Hmmmm. Tricky. Very Tricky.