Nope, I understand why she said it. Politics within her own country - which would soon include her being tagged as a USA lap dog.. Too bad it could not have stayed in her own country. And there you go on the defensive again. I do not wish her to be controlled by anyone but I also do not favor any leader talking out of both sides of mouth. Not only does she want to make her GITMO statement - she will be here expecting aid in one way or another. Germany is close to being on the ropes economy wise and if we pull our bases from there....well, that won't exactly be an economy plus.
Bottom line, I don't care what German politicos do or say concerning their own. Do not expect US citizens to act as puppies when your officials believe their negative opinion on our actions count for something.
Germany has 80.000.000 inhabitants. It is one of the biggest economies in the world. The USA have between 70.000 to 30.000 soldiers left. Mainly in two Bases. Just to give you the proportion. Being on the ropes is for sure something different. :-)
It would be sad if you would go. You can be assured that the economic point of view is of no bigger interest to me. We will survive it. But... ...the connection between America and Germany (Europe) is simply something too precious to be wasted just because of your little dungeon in the sun.
On the other hand you must be aware that our gouvernment makes its own decisions. If you can not accept this than it will be indeed better if you go. It is the question if you could see us as friends or as a occupied area?