I agree that the Israel comments were calculated. Romney wants some of those Jewish votes and would say about anything to get them. When you start talking about one group being more culturally superior than another and the hand of providence playing a part, that doesn't strike me as good statemanship.
The Olympics comments were dumb on Romney's part. It wasn't just the press who took offense either as you had elected officials over there commenting on Romney's Olympic comments. When you're a guest it's rude even if it's true to play the critic.
