1. Bob | 08.20.08

Reminds me of the Far Side cartoon where the giant cockroach lying in an alley is talking to a bum saying: “I had it all: great job, great car, money, success, beautiful wife. Then one day someone shouted, ‘Hey! He’s just a big cockroach!’”.

NObama ‘08

2. PacificGatePost | 08.20.08

BOTH CANDIDATES, AS WELL AS CONGRESS, MIGHT DO WELL TO LISTEN TO ANDREW BACEVICH… NOT JUST HEAR HIM

Only rarely does someone surface with qualifications as well as insights and a delivery that stimulate thinking. Even more rarely does an individual stimulate the very personal mental articulation of self observation.

http://pacificgatepost.blogspot.com/2008/08/andrew-bacevich-rare-sobering-voice.html

Bacevich deserves as broad an audience as can be exposed to his thoughtful analysis.

3. Gerard Jones | 08.20.08

It’s also important to note that, according to most academic models, the non-incumbent party wins 88% of presidential elections in years when an obscure, contemporary groups tops the Beatles in the Greatest Boy Band poll.

4. DoTheMath | 08.20.08

Watch those enthusiasm numbers. Turnout will decide the election.

5. Thomas Walls | 08.20.08

The Monkees were cooler than Obama or McCain.

I’m voting for Bob Barr, the Libertarian Party candidate.

6. Randy | 08.20.08

So much for “polling”…

“The only pole I can count on is the one my wife either sits or swings on.”

7. erik | 08.20.08

I’m 32 years old upper middle class white guy that has never particularly liked politics. I have never voted for a president in my life. I am making it a priority this fall to not only vote but also contribute to a campaign as I have already done. It is astounding to me that a person somehow gets presidential credit for being shot down in a plane.. Yes glad hes alive, yippee… This is his foundational start for everything? Before this he excelled in what? Riding daddy’s military legacy (Daddy was an Admiral)? He has been portrayed as mediocre at best in any of his endeavours previous to his falling out of the sky… We have already seen what children of entitlement are worth, Bush being a primary example. But yell hes a patriot even louder and half of America wont question you for a second. Whys he more of a hero or better qualified than the hundreds of thousands of other solders that have been maligned by war? The truth is he isnt.. Its just that his dad was an admiral and he came back a shinning star of war period….

8. JudiWatching | 08.20.08

Mainstream Media: Who’s that man behind the curtain?

THE CHANGING WORLD OF INFORMATION RESOURCES

In the “old days” before the internet we were confined to the information fed to us by the media organizations - television, newspapers and magazines. Digging deeper into a story meant buying a lot of books or spending time at the public library, and most likely there would not be adequate research data available until months after the fact.

Things have changed. Thanks to a boundless archive of free information available on the internet, Americans who are willing to look for it can uncover the real story behind the groomed and edited news report issued by the media, in many cases within mere hours after the story is released.

AND NOW, A WORD FROM OUR SPONSER…

It should be noted that the American public is not the naïve flock of sheep it was back around September 11, 2001. Again thanks to the wealth of resources available on the internet, we have become savvy to the influence of government and corporate funding on media organizations. What was once called Mainstream Media [MSM] is now more appropriately tagged Corporate Media.

For those of you who are not aware of these influences, you owe it to yourself to do some research. Look into the funding sources of corporate media and how these sources influence the news we watch, read and hear, particularly politics. It’s a real eye-opener, trust me. While you’re at it, do some Googling for independent news sources. Compare their version of any given political news story to the version issued by mainstream/corporate media. The differences are glaring, if not stunning.

Mainstream Media journalism is biased according to the special interests of the political and corporate sponsors attached to that particular media source. News reports are carefully groomed and edited to comply with those special interests. Our government has become the biggest political influence on the media, with strong funding and sponsorship ties.

Media bias can be and is used to alter the reality of the world around us, covertly shaping our opinions and decisions to fit into the status quo. Propaganda, cover-ups, skewed facts, fabricated polls – powerful tools used by corporate media to manipulate and deceive the American public.

Today these machinations are at working at a feverish peak, focused on manipulating the presidential election to an outcome that will favor the corporate media, its special interests and the government forces controlling it.

Let’s hope that 21st century American is indeed wiser now than it was in the fall of 2001. God save America.

9. ARTIE BURRIS | 08.20.08

LET EM SAY OBAMA IS LEADING , WHEN IN FACT THE PEOPLE ARE GETTING TIRED OF EVEN LOOKING AT THE PERSON , VOTING FOR HIM IS FOREVER GETTING LESS AND LESS, MAY BE THAT THE YOUNG BE WAKEING UP AND SEEING THE TRUE ARAB.????? A G B

10. Mike | 08.20.08

What kind of oxymoron is Christian Science anyway?

11. Margaret | 08.20.08

Excellent piece. Polls can be “bought” or, to use a rarely used expression these days, may be owned by “vested interests.” I rather suspect there are some vested interests pulling some of the poll strings. Frankly, I’ll take Zogby any day of any week.

12. Jason | 08.20.08

Voting for Barack Hussein Mugabe Obama is a mistake. He is more popular in Hitler’s Germany than USA. He has only one goal: elevate himself and can care less about USA. He will not serve the best interest of this country. We do not need a pot smoking, tobacco loving socialist. We need a mature statesman like John McCain who is fair and moderate but economically conservative.

13. bill | 08.20.08

May I suggest: McCain for the band. Lord knows, he likes to bang the same drums.. (Sorry, I couldn’t resist).

14. slp | 08.20.08

It defies understanding after the Republicans have virtually raped this country time and again that so many people still want an Republican administration. The only possible answer is fear. It is what the GOP does best.

15. nwkerr2005 | 08.20.08

I don’t know what Zogby poll you are writing about, but the latest Zogby poll released today in USA Today shows that McCain is up 5 points in that poll also. Your article states that in the Zogby poll, Obama is up 5 points.

16. janie | 08.20.08

I would rather see an atheist in the office than to see a Muslim in office.
At least with the former you can hope for tolerance. I have read too many articles pointing out that you cannot be a good Muslim and a good American for several reasons, not the least being tolerance of people and their beliefs — religious freedom and freedom of speech being two of the things on which this country was founded.
I continue to be amazed daily that Obama has made it as far as he has.

17. enstock | 08.20.08

Given the enthusiasm gap that McCain is labouring under, he needs to fire up his base. This would preclude going with Tom Ridge or Joe Lieberman as VP.

18. Kim | 08.20.08

Yeah, but Obama is WAAAAAY up in the polls in Europe! Celebrity status can only take you so far, Mr. Junior Senator.

19. Nosferatu | 08.20.08

“It defies understanding after the Republicans have virtually raped this country time and again that so many people still want an Republican administration. The only possible answer is fear. It is what the GOP does best.”

Not fear, wisdom.

20. Rhonda | 08.20.08

This is the United States of America. It is shameful that many of these posters have no respect for the dignity of this country, the disgnity of the electoral process or respect for themselves. Try to find a way, some way if possible, to elevate your discussion on this website, The CHRISTIAN Science Monitor, If you do not what they stand for, then look it up!

21. SB | 08.20.08

Well, Janie, good thing for you that no Muslims ARE running for office!

I continue to be amazed daily that people still believe — or at least broadcast, on message boards and in wacko chain email — these ridiculous rumors about Senator Obama.

22. McBush | 08.20.08

I cant belive it is so close. They’ll pick another neo-con republican policy driven administration. It didnt work, give it up….

23. john | 08.20.08

what kind of people are you? Obama is NOT a Muslim, he USED to smoke.

What makes McCain so great? Graduating nearly dead last of his class in H.S? Crashing four fighter jets before being shot down in one?

McCain will not and can not win the election.

24. Bolverk | 08.20.08

Well erik, I am glad you are voting for president for the first time in 14 years. But, before you do, dig a little into Obama’s background in Chicago, see how he got his first elected office. And, remember he promised not to run for President until he served a full term in the Senate, but wait, he hasn’t completed his first term yet.

I think George Burns said it best, where people like you are concerned, “too bad that all the people who really know how to run the country are busy driving taxi cabs and cutting hair.”

And to all you folks who believe that the President is responsible for going to war, our economy or an energy policy, read the constitution for a change. You might actually learn something.

25. AwesomeRobot | 08.20.08

Congratulations, CSM. Not ONE sane comment on this story! You’ve routed out all the crazies on all sides!

I’d better mention TIMECUBE, just to keep this article on its crazy roll.

26. Rob | 08.20.08

Janie: McCain is a Muslim?
Jason: Obama was alive during the 1930s?

Man, I thought I was confused before.
Hopefully, these foolish comments are in jest, and if so, nice dry delivery!

27. AwesomeRobot | 08.20.08

Aw damn, some people broke the streak =(

28. notjanie | 08.20.08

1. Barack Obama is NOT a Muslim

2. Sheep are great followers but not as good at lockstep as Republican legislators (with a few exceptoions)

3. John McCain doesn’t understand the difference in being a warrior and being a patriot (all patriots are not warriors all warriors are not patriots)

4. It takes a lot of gall for a long time multimillionaire to call anyone else an elitist

5. Two people run for president - one is ambitious the other is not? True or False

29. Doug | 08.20.08

Janie and Jason, as far as I’m concerned you can get the F out of America. The guy is not a Muslim, and frankly you are racist, conspiracy theory morons if you still believe that he is. I really think people like you should forefit your right to vote if it is based on garbage thinking like that….

30. crawlpappy | 08.20.08

twats

31. John Vukich | 08.20.08

The Zogby poll released today gives McCain a 5 point lead which is greater that the =/- 3point error.

Released: August 20, 2008
Reuters/Zogby Poll: McCain Makes a Move, Takes 5-Point Lead Over Obama

Obama loses ground among Dems, women, Catholics & even younger voters

UTICA, New York – As Russian tanks rolled into the Republic of Georgia and the presidential candidates met over the weekend in the first joint issues forum of the fall campaign, the latest polling includes drama almost as compelling - Republican John McCain has taken a five-point lead over Democrat Barack Obama in the race for President, the latest Reuters/Zogby telephone survey shows.

McCain leads Obama by a 46% to 41% margin.

And McCain not only enjoys a five-point edge in a two-way race against Obama, but also in a four-way contest including liberal independent candidate Ralph Nader and Libertarian Bob Barr, the poll reveals. In the four-way contest, McCain wins 44% support, Obama 39%, Barr 3% and Nader 2%.

This latest Reuters/Zogby poll is a dramatic reversal from the identical survey taken last month – in the July 9-13 Reuters/Zogby survey, Obama led McCain, 47% to 40%. In the four-way race last month, Obama held a 10-point lead over McCain.

32. BeQuiet Jones | 08.20.08

WOW! I am just shocked at what some of you post to the internet. I listen day in and day out to Americans complaining and whinning about the state of this country. Then I read things like, “he’s just a big cockroach” in regards to a HUMAN BEING! I continue to be laugh at the American society. You are all so terrified of change and something different. A muslim in office could bring us all some much needed diversity. Stop being so stuck in your WASP prehistoric mayflower ways, if you havn’t noticed your country is 59% owned by OTHER COUNTRIES! By the way, LEARN HOW TO SPELL AND PUNCTUATE! It’s just sad to see a society who claims to be the number 1 society in the world, yet can’t figure out how to spell simple words or where to put a fricken comma. GROW UP, I vote for change! Your a fool if you don’t think your economically conservative republicans don’t smoke pot, chew tobacco, cheat on their wives and LOVE same sex sex!

Open your eyes to the reality of the world around you. Conservative is just another word for liar.

Knowledge is freedom. Ignorance is a waste of oxygen.

33. Joe Detroit | 08.20.08

McCain will win the election and it is the Democrats fault.

Instead of picking an electable candidate they choose Barack Hussien Obama.

He isn’t going to win, I beleive when many people get into the voting booth they won’t vote for him.

The democrats had cakewalk into the White House and blew it. Fools.

34. Billy | 08.20.08

A huge portion of portion of the electorate prefers the candidate who can run the most immoral campaign. Instead of picking someone who they see as intelligent, virtuous, and innovative… they will go for the one who can tell the most sinister lies about his opponent.

35. Don | 08.20.08

I don’t care which religion, if any, a President has. But I continue to be amazed daily that people like Janie still are still operating under the delusion that Obama is Muslim.

36. Kobe | 08.20.08

Erik…. Comment number 7. Are you serious? You ridicule McCain about what he has or hasn’t done and give Obama a pass..you’re gonna vote for somebody who’s only claim to fame is being a community activist? He’s experienced?

Get real and get educated before you aid in ruining your country by voting for the messiah. You sound ridiculous.

37. Evelyn Ford | 08.20.08

I think it should be told over and over AGAIN that OBAMA IS NOT A MUSLIN. ALSO THAT HE WAS BORN IN HAWAII.

38. Jerry | 08.20.08

7. erik , So tell me what qualifies Barack Obama to be president. You go on about McCain and leave out many years of his record as a represenative and senator. So what’s Barack done besides being charismatic for loons like you>

39. Evelyn Ford | 08.20.08

i think that it should be repeated over and over again that oBAMA IS NOT A MUSLIN. aLSO THAT HE WAS BORN IN HAWAII

40. Christine | 08.20.08

Wow are there really that many ignorant and uninformed people out there? Both Obama and McCain are Christians. If you are going to express an opinion please let it be a truthful one. Don’t you think there is enough lies being spread? Obama can and will inspire this country to be the best that it can be. McCain is just another war hungry politician who thinks the only way to gain respect is to be the worlds bully. Haven’t we had enough of that?

41. Buster | 08.20.08

McCain is a compulsive gambler. Why isn’t that getting publicity?

And for all I know, he might be an atheist in his heart.

42. Kathy | 08.20.08

People are finally getting some info on Obama’s agenda and background thanks to the internet and no thanks to the biased media. Next we’ll be hearing more about his association with Ayers and hopefully more about his Global Poverty Program (read Global Poverty Tax)

43. LJF75 | 08.20.08

“That government is best which is most indifferent.” - FDR, describing the Republican administrations of Harding, Coolidge, and Hoover. It can also be said about the administration of Bush and the FEMA’s response to Katrina.

44. Jesus | 08.20.08

These polls are mostly fake to brainwash voters, just look who wrote this article, he worked for Bush and the Govenator.

45. EyesWideOpen | 08.20.08

McCain -needs- to win the election. So far the media focus is on a junior senator with no leadership skills and a bunch of political money greasing the rails. The Dem’s want him in office so badly they are even giving free haircuts to the homeless in Denver. Why have another embarrassment in office like Nancy Pelosi? Obama can’t even answer a simple question in a debate. He won’t commit except for a sound bite. We need more than that and if the only other answer is McCain, I’d rather have an veteran who has given 5 years of his life in a prison camp (and understands the meaning of sacrafice) than elect a waffler. He makes Slick Willy look good.

46. Jimmy | 08.20.08

McCain is a Ace pilot he brought down 5 planes and killed 130 seamen in one crash. Oh, they were his planes and our American sailors…never mind.

47. observer Ollie | 08.20.08

So many of the comments amaze me regarding some conspiracy by some group or the other of doing to get what they want. We pretty much all want what we want - and view the candidates with that eye. That corporations will do what they can to get the person elected that they feel will benefit them the most is classified as some devious act. Lets face it, we all want to impose our will on everyone else, and when we (or our candidate) lose we get p.o.’d - and accuse the other guy of all sorts of bad stuff. From so much of what I read, there are a lot of people out there just plotting to destroy, maime and mutilate those they do not like. The pillagers and plunders abound. Reality is only what we perceive it to be - just as someone living in the middle ages live their entire life believing that the world was flat - we too may live our entire lives believing something that at some point in the future will be shown to be as rediculous as the belief that the world was flat is to us. AS for me, I lie to pollsters because I like them to be wrong - and I often wonder if I am the only one.

48. Janet | 08.20.08

John,

All good Muslims know–born a Muslim, always a Muslim. Research Indonesia’s records on highest Muslim count and see Obama’s grandmother and sister interviewed. Why can’t he be honest about his Islamic training? Would America rather he lie to us to get elected or accept Obama for who he truly is? I thought we were way beyond judging Muslims and Obama’s Islamic faith!

49. Reason | 08.20.08

“I would rather see an atheist in the office than to see a Muslim in office.
At least with the former you can hope for tolerance.”

Oh yeah Stalin, there was a tolerant individual, Pol Pot on and on and you want an Atheist because you think you can hope for … awww nevermind.

You are a propagandized miseducated fool.

There’s a danger in this land and it flies in a right wing.

50. Rich | 08.20.08

Which one if elected is going to let me spend MY money and which one is going to take it and spend it for me? When Democrats get elected taxes go up. When Republicans get elected taxes go down. Simple. My vote McCain.

51. SpoxLogic | 08.20.08

I never got excited when the polls had Obama up. I won’t get down when the polls show Obama is down.
So what are we gonna write next week when a poll shows Obama is back on top? And then the next week, McCain?
The only poll that will count is the one we all wake up to on Nov 5, 2008. All of the pools now aren’t worth the paper they are printed on. Shhh! Dont’ tell anyone, but a horserace of an election means ratings and money for the MSM and the pollsters….

52. Fernando F. | 08.20.08

I like old people, but I wouldn’t trust them with my car.
McCain seems nice because he is simple minded, but he is no intellectual. He can’t work 10 hours straight analyzing data and information. People that are older than 80 don’t do those things. Why do you thing they are force to retire in some companies?
Obama is an intellectual. If you don’t understand his explanations maybe is because you are not as smart as him. He studied in Harvard!!!
We need an intellectual. The US don’t need a guy that you can drink a beer with, or an old guy telling stories about the war (no, the other war, in Vietnam).

53. America the Beautiful | 08.20.08

Open your eyes AMERICA! OBAMMIE THE COMMIE is a REVERSE RACIST, STAMMERING, MORONIC, ISLAMIC LEANING, HAMAS LOVING, ABORTION AND TERRORIST LOVING, CELEBRITY LAWYER. So is his ugly wife. They don’t LOVE America, Maybe they need to go somewhere else.

McCain is the obvious choice for President. He is patriotic and has served his country well. He has decades of experience, something Obama only dreams of. If you watched the Saddleback Forum you should have no doubts about who the right person is for the job.

To see a photo of Obama’s wife and Louis Farrakhan’s (Leader of the Nation of Islam) wife see this link:
http://conservativepolitics.today.com/2008/06/03/michelle-pictured-together-with-wife-of-louis-farrakhan/

http://www.youtube.com/user/brightamericaneyes

54. Fernando F. | 08.20.08

Shouldn’t the guy that shot McCain’s jet be elected? He is suppose to be the hero.

55. Marcus P | 08.20.08

Poll or no poll the nastiness of the Republicans is going to cost them this election. They seem alot less interested in leadership than in thinking up crazy conspiracy theories and making up new nasty names to call the opposition. John McCain used to be someone you could look up to for taking he high road. Now hes just like Bush.

56. Sad American | 08.20.08

I sit here and read the comments left…it just saddens me. I didn’t know that freedom of religion meant only freedom to be Christian. Do you even know anything about the Muslim religion at all? You should learn about what you think is wrong before you decide it is wrong. Do you even know about your religion at all? It isn’t your place to judge anyone.

What have the republicans done for the US in the past 8 years? Keep us in fear of the world and even worse people of other religions. I have always heard to vote for the lesser of two evils…and fear isn’t a plus in my book. We need to stop voting in people who think it’s broken but don’t fix it. We need to stop sweeping everything under the rug. A president is voted in to represent us as a country. To me the republicans haven’t done a good job at that in the past 4 presidents at all. At least Clinton did something for the people. Some not so good but at least we had money in our pockets at the time. Every time a republican is in office we as a country have finance troubles. So you want to put someone else in that is rich from special interests groups?

I myself am going to vote for Obama…we need a change bad in this country. We need someone who thinks it is broke and we need to fix it. If you don’t want to vote for him at least vote Independent or Green anything other than an republican.

Educate yourself before you hate. Wake up people…Think for yourself.

57. Mary | 08.20.08

Learn about the issues, get the facts, ignore the polls, decided what is important to you and vote, vote, vote.

58. Bruce | 08.20.08

40% of registered voters didnt bother in 2004. Tens of millions were not even registered.

Young adults will decide this election. They are not highly represented in the polls.

If they stay home, we get the old codger, war, lies, and tax rebates for the millionaires.

If the young vote, we get the guy who can use a computer, and the end of taxes on persons on social security.

59. Christopher London | 08.20.08

WHY MCCAIN WILL LOSE:

1-MEDIOCRE: McCain has literally no accomplishments of import for his 25 years in the Senate. Keating 5 Scandal

2-AGE: McCain is simply too damn old to manage your dad’s country store or your Uncle’s laundromat.

3-WIFE: McCain has on record referred to his wife as a C-U-Next-Tuesday. This is the same wife who’s rich family supported McCain’s political career. When Cindy had an affair with another man because she was not satisfied in her marriage, she got beat up by John McCain, hospitalized and developed an addiction to pain medication.

4-NEOCON: It will become increasing clear to the average American in the coming months that the NEOCON’S are propping up the McCain Candidacy, much like the movie, “Weekend with Bernie” because his faux “maverick” brand is their best bet to hold on to the Whitehouse.

5-PTSD/SANITY/SENILITY: McCain will “snap” in a debate, illustrating a discomforting level of anger and hostility that will show him to be an unstable man, unfit for Executive Office.

6-THE ECONOMY: The unemployment figures do not accurately describe the level of pain and suffering in America at this time. When the case is made clear to them, McCain will lose in a landslide as large as Reagan’s.

7-OBAMA: Obama has not yet begun to run in earnest. Everyone is watching TV with McCain’s slick ads but, the Obama campaign is laying down the ground game across 50 states. McCain will need to rally his base and any factor that undermines turnout will destroy his candidacy.

60. huck | 08.20.08

What makes McCain great?

His middle name isn’t Hussein.

61. Josh Alexander | 08.20.08

Oh (#9) Artie? It’s spelled “waking” - you and (#12) Jason both should go back to finish your 5th grade education. Hitler’s not in Germany anymore - he’s dead. It’s not 1945, it’s 2008.

Speaking of polling, I’ve noticed a general trend in all these message boards. People who can’t spell are twice as likely to think that Obama is a Muslim, and they have an 80% higher chance of making silly jokes about his name. Possibly because that seems to work well on the playgrounds where they must still be enjoying daily recess periods.

62. Dex | 08.20.08

Please tells why you people still believe that Obama Muslim. As if it makes a difference. This country was founded on the principle of religious freedom. McCain is a good man and a fine politician but wrong for the country, just as Bush was both times. The only reason why Obama is not crushing McCain is because people are reluctant to vote for a black man. It’s the 800 pound elephant in the room the no one wants to come out and say, thus the constant stating his full name. As sad as it may be, the country is not ready, McCain will win and we will deserve everything that happens as a result, just as we do now for voting this fool into office twice (or should I say once).

63. Ditches | 08.20.08

They should have exit polls after the election which ask people why they voted for McCain. Anyone who answers “because Obama is a muslim” should have “I am a moron” forcibly tatooed on their forehead so that I can avoid ever engaging one of them in conversation.

64. Josh Alexander | 08.20.08

Also, Evelyn - I love the sentiment, but Muslin is a kind of cloth, not a religious identity.

65. Bruce | 08.20.08

This is for America the Beautiful

McCain committed a crime when he went on Letterman and lied to the USA and said the IRAQI’s did the Anthrax attack. McCain is hiding his source, either a fictional wraith or that guy in the Darth Vader costume.
Either way, McCain’s WMD strumpet job is a crime. Stay on this one America the Beautiful, I know you love America, so stand up for your country and get your old codger to confess who his source is.
McCain is a criminal.

And by the way, that bit about commies, just another stupid lie. You guys are amazing, the way you throw code words around. Are you one of the guys making $2.9 million per year that are getting a $700K tax rebate if McCain is elected?

66. McMuffin | 08.20.08

John, not only did he smoke but snort as well.

It doesn’t matter too much who wins since most of the entire country agrees that neither is worthy. Why are we subjected to a know nothing superstar like Obama and a rotting corpse of McCain?

There is going to be a huge uprising in America the moment one of these clowns win and foul up. Personally I think that the media and most other liberals tend to not realize that there IS in fact a strong silent majority and those votes won’t be shown on a poll until election day. Most thought Kerry was going to win last time around but that proved only that polls are worthless. This time I think Obama will find that people don’t think that he is capable of keeping us safe and that will be good news for McCain.

As for Bush, lets face it the guy is the face of political retardation but no matter how pissed I am at the damage he did to the conservative image it is clear to me that he will be remembered in history much more favorably than people might think. Stuff that in your liberal sacks and smoke it from a bong.

67. Jack B | 08.20.08

“We need a mature statesman like John McCain who is fair and moderate but economically conservative.”

I’m sorry to say this, but you must be a blind fool…

68. Mary | 08.20.08

Also, excuse me, “America the Beautiful,” go back and read your post and see if you can imagine how rediculous it is. Anger, anger, anger. Get rid of the chip on your shoulder and study up on the facts. Even if you don’t like or respect Mr. Obama, do you think we are going to get anywhere in the Country talking like that? (That was a rhetorical question.)

69. Consistency Hobgoblin | 08.20.08

Go McCain. Our Commander in Chief. Victory in Iraq.

70. EJLima | 08.20.08

Hanging with McCain is like sitting on a hot stove.
What do you think is going to get burned?? Go figure.

71. Bulldog | 08.20.08

Dems made a critical mistake in starting the campaign way too early, so voters are already tired of their rhetoric. Obama made another mistake in disenfranchising Dems in Florida and Michigan. Rumors (arab, muslim, whatever) stick to Obama is because he is a made-for-tv empty suit candidate. The media has uterly failed in researching his background, and he refuses forums where the media can ask him questions. Thus the only thing voters know of Obama are his campaign pep-rally speeches. And they are tired of that false image.

Until Obama opens up to real media scrutiny all the negative images will continue to stick, and he will be defined by McCain. The only way for him to win is to be totally open and honest. Of course if the real Obama is not actually an appealing presidential candidate….

72. Bruce | 08.20.08

Kobe, McCain is the war criminal who created the IRAQ war based on WMDs that dont exist.

PS. It is not a crime to organize the poor.

73. Bud | 08.20.08

Behold the power of negativity and fear-mongering and LYING!

74. George | 08.20.08

The only reason that most people polled think B.O. is going to win is that’s all they hear from the press

75. Hatuxka | 08.20.08

This is pretty thin stuff on which to base the premise that there has been any big trend going. Zogby has almost always had McCain ahead, no matter what any other poll said. Also, never heard of the “George Washington Poll”, has anyone else?

As for John McCain, when he was captured by the Vietnamese and he sang like a bird. He even told them where the rescue ships were stationed off the coast. This is from a right wing website run by two other former pilots from the war.

76. Andrew | 08.20.08

I don’t trust any candidate that does not ask for my help in fixing the country. That’s why I don’t trust McCain. He claims he can fix everything, even things that aren’t broken, and will never need my help. Not once. So I shouldn’t offer it, and I shouldn’t ask questions about what he’s doing. This sounds a lot like Bush and we all know the damage that madman did.

Obama claims he can fix the country but only with our help. We have to help. No candidate can fix anything without the help of the people, and this is where Obama is being more honest than any candidate in recent times.

Besides, in this day and age, do you really want to elect a President who can’t email?

77. Barrie O. Ward The Canadian Geezer | 08.20.08

We continue to watch this melodrama unfold from here in the north woods of Canada and we are appalled and nauseated at the vile ignorance of some American posters who make thinly veiled racist comments about Mr. Obama ….

That America still has such a long way to go in public education and enlightenment is obvious from the content and tenor of these missives …. perhaps it is too late already and you are doomed as a society to slip into a police state with the wealthy few exploiting the great masses of ever poorer citizens until a complete collapse of civil society.

The whole world is hoping/praying for a fundamental “Shift” in how America is administered and approaches international and global issues and realizes that Obama is the one candidate that speaks to the larger issues of the day and that McCain is the front for the wealthy elite of a corrupt system …

Why the average Jane & Joe in America do not see this is quite startling until you realize the total abdication of responsible conduct by the media conglomerates and their employees …. as well as the failure of the education system to educate …. and also public officials reluctance to raise the level of informed discourse …. Perhaps you are doomed to repeat horrific electoral mistakes ad infinitum – so very very very sad.

Good Night …. and …. Good Luck — Indeed!

78. Reason over Religion | 08.20.08

“I would rather see an atheist in the office than to see a Muslim in office.
At least with the former you can hope for tolerance. I have read too many articles pointing out that you cannot be a good Muslim and a good American for several reasons, not the least being tolerance of people and their beliefs — religious freedom and freedom of speech being two of the things on which this country was founded.”

Wow Janie, the irony in your commentary is really laughable. How do you justify promoting the values of tolerance and religious freedom while completely maligning an entire belief system based on malicious, right-wing propagated stereotypes? How about judging a person based on his ability to govern rather than his supposed personal religious beliefs. I don’t care if Obama or McCain are atheist, Christian, Muslim or Jewish- as long as they’re both more open-minded than people like you.

79. Terry | 08.20.08

It’s interesting to note how easily Americans are manipulated.

The DNC, RNC and media have got you worked up over two losers, neither of whom is qualified to serve in the White House in any capacity. Both candidates are liars, have past and present ethics problems,and a disconnect with the “Average American” to say nothing of complex economics issues.

Maybe our only hope is that a substantial number of voters (20%) will opt for a third party or write in, and send a message that we want qualified, responsible candidates.

In the meantime, shouldn’t get your blood pressure up - whichever candidate makes it, you’ll soon be disappointed. When I think of our politicians I can’t help thinking… “you can buy better but you can’t pay more”

80. indi | 08.20.08

Obama hype has cooled. That is normal. Since he really has nothing much to sell. He is trying hard to hype the voters till the voting day–the celebrity tactic.

81. Tom N | 08.20.08

Don’t be fooled. McCain is not a man of faith. His answers were so political it wasn’t even funny. Don’t let this perpetrator pull wool over over our heads. McCain is a wolf in sheep’s clothing. I’m not exactly an Obama fan either. I’m for Ron Paul. But if you were to compare Obama and McCain, I’d have to say Obama at least had substance to his answers. It may be a bit verbose, but at least I didn’t feel he slung answers at me.

82. jon | 08.20.08

Just the fact that the race may be close, is a reflection of how ignorant the People have become.
If only people focused on issues, then whoever is elected is cool.
But, when so many focus on the sideshow, the sleight-of-hand, this Country is in trouble.
I used to be a Proud Republican. I am a Vet.
For years, I was taken in by all the subterfuge the GOP sells.
But one day, I inadvertently heard the *other* candidate. And when I looked at the state of the Country, what he was saying made more sense, than *staying the course.*
Now, rather than just attacking the *other* guy, I listen to him/her.
Then I listen to *my guy.* Then I weigh what they’re saying, against what I see locally, in the Nation, in the World.
I wish my fellow Christians, Vets, Americans, would take a deep breath, and listen to what candidates say… and not pay attention to the Spin.
For instance, the other day, Senator McCain accused Senator Obama of not being Patriotic. He said Senator Obama doesn’t care about anything but his ambition to be President.
Then, I heard what Senator McCain said, from his own mouth (an audio book)… where he said that he didn’t run for President because of any ideological, or political reason, other than his ambition to be President.
The hypocrisy of Senator McCain, that he’d accuse Senator Obama of exactly what he does.
Even Cindy McCain… I heard her say she was an only child. Then I read that she has an older step-sister. Her father gave all his wealth to Cindy, and nothing to the Step-sister. Why would Ms McCain lie about this?
What IS with these people?
My point, stop being manipulated, People. You were blessed with a Human brain. Stop behaving like Sheep. Look for answers… ask questions… Think before you vote.

83. Ditches | 08.20.08

McMuffin: “[Bush] will be remembered in history much more favorably than people might think.” Right, because history doesn’t actually record what someone says or does…huh?

84. Sammy | 08.20.08

32. BeQuiet Jones wrote:
LEARN HOW TO SPELL AND PUNCTUATE!

followed by: “Your(sic) a fool if you don’t think you…”

Says it all…

85. Larry | 08.20.08

Obama is not a Muslim extremist, his father was one though. Obama’s mamma was a white non-beliver who held anti-American views. We all know Reverend Wright, Obama’s mentor and preacher for twenty years. He is a world-class bigot; without a doubt, an anti-American, anti-white, racist.
Obama’s brother is a muslim in Kenya.
This is all public knowledge as I see it.
Obama is not a Muslim, but he sure belonged to the Church-of-Hate for twenty years. That’s a long time for a guy to listen to Wright and be unaware that he was listening to a moron and a racist.
Don’t you think so?

86. Jerry | 08.20.08

It is funny to me that when Obama had his “substantial lead” in the polls all the Democrats pointed to the polls and said “See, we are way ahead. We are going to win this election by a landslide.” Now that it is close, they say the polls don’t matter.

87. indi | 08.20.08

Can all of you Bush/McCain haters say a few things worthy about Obama? I tried to promote him, but don’t know where to start. The search for his past records and achievements turned out very little. And I don’t think the HOPE and DREAM stuff are going to sell too well..

88. Charles | 08.20.08

There are lies.
BIG lies.
then,statistics.

89. robt | 08.20.08

Sorry erik-

McCain is a hero. He was offered an opportunity to walk out of the Hanoi Hilton and refused because others had been there longer and the honorable code of the military (something I am sure you and those like you have no concept of) dictates that those who were captured first, leave first. So for that, he had the privilege of being tortured and forfeiting 5 more years of his life. Yeah, sounds like a spoiled, spoon fed brat to me - you moron!!!

90. aurum79 | 08.20.08

Eric -

You are a nit-wit for never voting for a presidential candidate. Regardless of whether you voted or not, I twits like you, even if you didn’t vote, for Reagan and Bush and Shrub. Go soak your fat head. If you plan to vote for McCain, don’t vote. If you plan to vote for Obama, do it for the right reasons.

91. Sammy | 08.20.08

All the writers here who keep on about ‘tax rebates’ and ‘tax refunds’ for the rich really are showing their ignorance. Ignoring the recipients of refunds which are larger than the tax (if any) they paid during the year - these ‘rebates’ or ‘refunds’ are monies that have already been paid to the government in excess of what was actually owed - not a gift as it is so often presented.

92. aurum79 | 08.20.08

Eric -

You are a nit-wit for never voting for a presidential candidate. Regardless of whether you voted or not, I blame twits like you, even if you didn’t vote, for Reagan and Bush and Shrub. Go soak your fat head. If you plan to vote for McCain, don’t vote. If you plan to vote for Obama, do it for the right reasons.

93. alwaysaskQ | 08.20.08

OK, how about this:

Obama is young, intelligent and will learn.

McCain is stubborn, will dance with a bomb, inconsistent and we probably will watch him slipping into senility while his unknown vp and puppet masters running the country.

If you want to vote for McCain – vote for his vp

94. philko | 08.20.08

“And to all you folks who believe that the President is responsible for going to war, our economy or an energy policy, read the constitution for a change. You might actually learn something.”

So might our current President. We are “at war” and the President claims “war powers”, but the Congress never declared war. The laws that Congress has passed have been signed by the President who simultaneously issued “signing statements” that declared that he would not be bound by the law he just signed. The departments of the Executive Branch are “interpreting” the laws passed by Congress in ways clearly not intended by the laws’ original authors (look at recent rule changes by the EPA, FCC and other regulatory bodies).

Which of the two (ok, four) current wanna-be Presidents is the LEAST likely to continue this behavior?

95. John | 08.20.08

Wow is all I can say… fine by me if McCain wins but when you get another 4 or 8 years of same Bush policies don’t complain.

Lord knows, I’m looking forward toward higher gas prices, more mortgage meltdowns, wiretapping, lack of healthcare, curtailing abortion rights, love that response to Katrina (pass me a piece of birthday cake please), lets invade Iran or maybe Russia, don’t worry we can run the wars on credit so your great great great grandchild can pay for it, unemployment, I hear they are hiring at the DOJ (Democrats need not apply), hmmm maybe KBR is hiring too bad Enron collapsed or I’d apply there too…

96. Jerry | 08.20.08

My method of selecting a candidate puts more weight on my own observations than on those of others.

I read everything I can find, watch everything I can see, and decide according to the aggregate.

McCain was a child of privilege who was helped into West Point by his influential family. He was an unremarkable student who finished 894th out of a class of 899 (that’s the bottom, folks). He was then mysteriously included in flight training, an opportunity usually afforded only to the top of the class. This anomaly makes me believe there is something to the usual selection procedure, since McCain proved to be a less that proficient pilot, destroying a total of 5 airplanes in his short military career. His capture and imprisonment are certainly unfortunate, but they in no way qualify him for the office for which he aspires. Interestingly, my most grievous complaint about McCain is the abandonment of his wife, his adultery with his current wife.

Obama, on the other hand, earned his stature without the benefit of nepotism, chose to work for public good rather than personal enrichment, is a loyal husband and father, and, icing on the cake, he is charismatic.

The experience argument has no weight. Judgment trumps experience every time.

I choose sanity. I choose Obama.

97. kulyrpyps | 08.20.08

I don’t know what all this fuss is about Bahama. I hear it is a wounderful place to visit(maybe not presently with Fay and all). But anyways we all thought Russia was gonna change didn’t we.NNOTTT!!!!!!!!Anyone who thinks someone has changed they’re religion should first be familiar with that religion before making any JUDGEMENT calls.

98. Patrick | 08.20.08

Why should anyone take any of these polls seriously? Remember, these same polls showed that Hillary Clinton was going to be the heir-apparent nominee. And we all know THAT didn’t happen.

So we can and should take these polls with the proverbial grain of salt. Besides, all that matters is what happens on election day, not now.

Oh, and who, may I ask, is being polled? Not me, certainly. Are these polls conducted via lan lines? Where’s the cell phone users being polled? Older Americans are much more likely to be lan-line users verus younger voters who are on cell phones. Thus, me thinks these pollsters are ignoring a huge and major part of the electorate.

So, who should we believe and when should we believe it? Oh, that’s right: We should believe them this time, because surely, this time, they’ve got it right.

NOT !!!

OBAMA FOR PRESIDENT !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!1111

99. Tom | 08.20.08

NObama ‘08

He is not a leader. He will say anything to get elected. He is a follower.

Tom

100. Obama is Magic | 08.20.08

Obama is a marvel indeed.

FIRST AND FOREMOST :
No record or accomplishments at a national level. Not even a completed term as a Senator.
Excellent speech reader from a teleprompter with a very polished, sharp delivery.

BEYOND THE OBVIOUS :
- Over a 20 year history of being initiated and indoctrinated in an Anti American, Black separatist church that preached hatred.
- Close continuing friendship with a known Anti American terrorist William C Ayers.
- Served on a board for an organization that aligned with the Arab American Action Network and the said organization contributed $75,000 to an identified terror group.
- Wants to empower unions which have undermined the work force in this country to the detriment of our manufacturing capabilities which have gone offshore and thereby are able to work without having to deal with unions.
- Supported by the Democrats who continue to use fear mongering to try and twist public perception. The war was supported by both parties, but the demorats would like everyone to think that only the republicans were responsible.

For those of you who continue to say Obama is not a Muslim, and McCain is some evil republican, can you share your secret for looking into the hearts of men and really seeing what emanates. I would like that knowledge also before I make my fnial call as to who I will vote for. But I tell you it won’t be Obama for sure based on what I know he has/hasn’t done.

101. Patrick | 08.20.08

One more thing…..

It’s a shame, really, the personal attacks that go on here and in the presidential race. We have a contest for the President of the United States. What’s wrong with open and honest competition? Absolutely nothing. Hell, if the world can hold the Olympics in China, a regime that abuses its own people day in, day out, then surely we can stop the hate and just have a competitive race.

I am an Obama supporter. I don’t “hate” John McCain. He’s the guy on the other side. So what? He’s not the anti-Christ, and neither is Obama. Both of them, I’m sure, do want what is best for the country. And it’s not easy to run for president nor is it easy to run a country like the U.S.

So kudos to Obama and McCain for wanting to lead instead of follow.

I swear here and now that should McCain win, I will give him the benefit of every doubt. So, please, stop the hating. Support your candidate and vote for him, but the hating and name-calling and race this and race that, and is he or isn’t he a muslim — they’re all unnecessary distractions.

My hats off to McCain for serving our country well — which he has done for so many years. I applaud him.

Barack Omama, too, deserves kudos for serving the public and living a life than ANYONE can look up to.

I’m an American, happy to be one. I’m happy to live in a democracy — okay, it’s not a true democracy, but a representative one. We’re lucky to be here, everybody.

Long live the United States of America !!!

Get out and vote — whomever your candidate of choice is. Just be a good American as well as a good small “d” democrat and VOTE.

I hope everyone here are truly concerned Americans and that each and every one of us votes. My wish would be for a huge voter turnout, an honest election, where we select a president by actually voting this time, in record numbers… NO MATTER WHICH GUY WINS.

I really am proud to be an American citizen. So should we all be.

102. Charlie | 08.20.08

re comment 16 by janie,
1. If you believe that Mr. Obama is a Muslim (not a bad thing), you can either read his book, or go to “fact checker” at: http://voices.washingtonpost.com/fact-checker/2008/06/was_obama_a_muslim.html to get another opinion.

2. you might think about the following 5 tenents of the Muslim religion:

THE FIVE PILLARS (RELIGIOUS DUTIES)
I. This is the profession of faith in Islam: “There is no other god but God.
II. The next most important religious duty after the profession of faith is prayer.
III. The third duties of a Muslim is to give alms to the poor as an outward sign of true piety.
IV. The fourth duty of a Muslim is to fast during the twenty-nine days of the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar.
V. The fifth prescribed religious duty of every Muslim is to make a pilgrimage to the holy shrine of Ka’ba in Mecca.

103. ed | 08.20.08

To paraphrase Mark Twain (but also attributed to Benjamin Disraeli), “There are three types of lies. Lies, damned lies, and polls.”

104. Rico Lagattuta | 08.20.08

Eric,

You are an idiot! For a 32 year old you have learned nothing! God save America form the likes of you!

105. Uncle Sam | 08.20.08

After 8 years of complete destruction of American values,
After 8 years of loosing our allies and now we are trying to find new ones in Georgia!
After 8 years of lying on the economy to the American people
After 8 years of fighting a stupid war and killing many innocent people mostly our own
After 8 years of stealing the freedom we so cherished and loved
After 8 years of religious idiotic propaganda, especially from the drug addicts evangelist’s and born again (which by the way made alot of people leave the christian faith because of these idiots)
OK almost 8 years How CAN YOU REPUBLICAN DARE TO ACT AS IF NOTHING HAPPENED AND YOU PRETENT BUSSINESS AS USUAL, ARE YOU MORANS? ARE YOU SPIES FOR THE CHINESE? I AM SORRY BUT I WAS A REPUBLICAN ONCE NOW IM FREE, TO PROTECT MY COUNTRY FROM THE EVIL REPUBLICAN EMPIRE AND GIVE BACK HONOR AND DIGNITY TO OUR PEOPLE WHICH YOU SHAMELESLY TOOK AWAY OUR HUMAN RIGHTS.
After 8 years we can not afford another 8 years of stupid experementing digging for oil, creating another 80 nuclear power plans, starting another war to hide the stolen cash, continue lying to the good people of America, and having the nationalistic idiots create more fear with stupid slogans.
How can you still call yourself republican or even American arent you embarased?
and by the way all anti US blogs are suporting guess who morans?

106. nofreelunch | 08.20.08

We are all part of the POLITCAL SPECTRUM. Obama & most of the democratic party elites are perceived to be at the extreme left edge of the spectrum by both conservatives and Hillary democracts. McCain is perceived by liberals to be conservative, and by conservatives to be liberal, which places him near the center.
Left.Obama………….Mod.Dem……..McCain………………………Right

McCain will win a large portion of moderate to center voters, and a vast majority of center to right voters. That leaves Obama the extreme left & the rest of the moderates.
The OBJECTIVE TRUTH is never on the extreme left or the extreme right, but ALWAYS near the middle. #33 Joe Detroit has it right. McCain will win the election and it is the Democrats fault. Democrats will continue to lose, until they start nominating someone of SUBSTANCE closer to the middle PERIOD.

107. manny | 08.20.08

janie (comment #16) wrote:

“I would rather see an atheist in the office than to see a Muslim in office.
………..
I continue to be amazed daily that Obama has made it as far as he has.”
======================================================

janie, Barack Obama is not a muslim. You must be part of the 8-12% that continues to think he is. Again, he is a christian, and has never been a muslim, contrary to what you may have heard. Educate yourself and broaden your news sources a little and you will no longer be “amazed” that he has made it as far as he has.

108. Josh | 08.20.08

Does that account for how John McCain cheated at last weeks “forum” in which the audience was obviously “pro McCain?”

I am losing my faith in the ability of Americans to make the judgment as to who leads this country; and if Obama loses, I will lose it indefinitely.

109. Obama is Magic | 08.20.08

Terry,

you are absolutely correct, far too many of us Americans are manipulated. So many of us are easily distracted by the latest, shiny objects, ie Obama.

110. AFtERBIRtH33 | 08.20.08

Dear Jani # 16 - 8/20/08,

Most “atheists” show about as much “tolerance” as right-wing Christians do, or slightly more than those who force their daughters and wives to hide behind a burka do. Get your facts straight - this is my opinion.

Thanks!

111. Andrew | 08.20.08

Dear #58 Bruce,

You say that if young people vote, Obama will win the election. Does 22 years old count as a young person? If so, then you need to look out for me at the polls; I’ll be messing up your prediction and voting in the old codger (for a variety of reasons, which I’m not going to go into right now).

———-

It also amazes me at the number of people who get mad when the rich get the SAME TAX BREAKS WE DO. They pay a larger percentage of their own income as taxes right now. How can giving them a percentage of their income back be considered unfair? They’ve paid FAR more than you or I ever will. Cut them some slack for being rich. It isn’t a crime. Giving everyone in America the same amount for a tax break, say 500 dollars, isn’t fair to the rich since their money is going to me. I didn’t earn it and don’t deserve it.

America is full of fools on both sides of the political boundary. I don’t pretend to think that Republicans are perfect. But I refuse to vote for Obama when he supports things I can never agree with.

112. esmen | 08.20.08

Obama doesnt need to be in washington 30 years to know what is wrong with it. Of the last 5 elected presidents only Bush 41 had the resume, but he did not win a second term. And until Bush 43 he was considered the worst, but we all know who is taking that honor now.

113. Obama is Magic | 08.20.08

Go Andrew! Finally a perspective that anyone with any sense of logic should find it difficult to disagree with.

114. Mary | 08.20.08

Obama is not a Muslim. Obama was born in America. How about focusing on the real issues that put bread on the table and gas in the tank?

Character assassination is truly a sign of desperation, and really not worthy of Americans. Those of you resorting to that really need to get a grip. Think about the roots of our country’s founding and bring your discussion up a few notches.

We are a country of many people, and not all of them are going to look like you or attend the same house of worship as you. This country was created to be the safe haven of those looking for religious, political and personal freedom.

You might also consider that the first Muslims to come to America were brought here against their will as slaves from Africa. We have been living together a long time, and now some seem to think it is ok to attack fellow Americans on the basis of their religion. Maybe you forgot about the First Amendment?

Constructive discussion of policy and vision is fair. Racist and intentionally incorrect comments wastes everyone’s time.

115. Greg | 08.20.08

I like all the comments about educating ones self on issues. Unfortunately, only several of you seem to be able to claim that as a matter of fact. If McCain was an atheist I just might like him a little better.
The fact is McCain still lives in the past and the past he lives in has little bearing on the present. McCain’s only recourse has been to play on emotion. I fear this election will be decided by emotion instead of logic. Has anyone ever thought it may be better to elect a president on the grounds of his or her commitment to the USA and a better way of life?
I agree with the comment which states, “It is astounding to me that a person somehow gets presidential credit for being shot down in a plane.” Being shot down in a plane is as much a qualification for president as religious affiliation. Plenty of people who have religious affiliation couldn’t run a Dairy Queen let alone a state or a country. The same goes for war heroes.
Vision and a progressive way of looking at politics is how society advances. It would be healthy for this country to have a youthful, intelligent man or woman at the helm. John McCain can’t even use a computer. And good luck teaching him. Have you ever tried to teach your grandparents, or even your parents, how to use a computer? We really should try our hardest to embrace a different, fresh candidate instead of the old, washed-up, tired, political never-has-been who is John McCain.

116. Legal Immigrant | 08.20.08

Mary,

in a world with practical people you would be absolutely correct. islam however is a different beast with ideals that do not match those of an inclusive society. I hope you realize that arguing against that point would be worthless, if you don’t you are either a lier or a moron. Where religion really doesn’t matter to me in usually any aspect of life, having a president of this country be even remotely related to islam is nothing but a dangerous possibility. Do you really think if Obama is secretly a muslim, he would ever admit to being remotely muslim and risk not reaching the presidency. But then I think anyone who tries to direct support away from Obama will be overwhelmed by the sheep that are following this stuffed shirt.

117. esmen | 08.20.08

McCain is lying piece of crap. Everytime he puts out any comment such as his ad compairing Obama to Paris and Lindsay or how he keeps calling Obama a traitor and when he gets called on it all he says is that he was kidding or that Obama doesnt have a sense of humor.

If you are going to say something as offensive you should be a man and stand by what you say.

McBush same old politics

118. THE curiousblack | 08.20.08

so if I read this bio correctly, dubya learned how to land an aircraft in one piece. this makes president BUSH(WACK) the thinking man’s John McCain or just a smarter John?

119. Obama is Magic | 08.20.08

“so if I read this bio correctly, dubya learned how to land an aircraft in one piece. this makes president BUSH(WACK) the thinking man’s John McCain or just a smarter John?”

ergo:

So Obama can play basketball, so this makes Slick Willy truly a psuedo black man, or a black psuedo man. Huh?

Didn’t make sense did it.. Didn’t think so.. and now you know..

120. THE curiousblack | 08.20.08

you liars, you know that Obama is not a muslim, nor anti american. YOU are ANTI-AMERICAN! you can say what you wish, but everyone knows that it’s not youth, it is not religion nor is it his politics. you fear the fact that another not white face is succeding and has better ideas that do work. you cannot afford your homes, you cannot afford to drive your cars, your job has gone overseas and you want more of the same. I hope for a very cold winter for your discontent.

121. chicagoan | 08.20.08

Now that McCain is catching up, the Obamaniacs are starting to freak. Even the media is starting to become more even handed. I think Obama is essentially a weak candidate. He is simply too far to the left and lacking in any real qualifications for the presidency. In a more typical election year he probably would not have become the democratic candidate. Running on your identity and one issue, opposition to the Iraq war,is simply not enough. Preferential treatment, which Obama is used to receiving from his youth, despite his claims to the contrary in his autobiographies, should not be employed in politics. ‘Increasing diversity’ is not a valid nor appropriate reason to elect someone for the highest office in the world. Qualifications, experience and trust are more valid criterion. I believe that the majority of Americans think this way and in November the Obamania that has gripped the media and world will subside and Obama may have to finish his first term as a senator and actually get some actual work done for his constituents. Too bad Hillary, a much more qualified candidate who actually had specific plans and goals for the country, was the victim of Obamania. Now the democrats may have to get used to four more years of republicans.

122. Nicholas | 08.20.08

After enduring eight years of Republinazi rule and the horrible disasters they created (from mass murder in Iraq to $4.00 gasoline), the Gallup, Zogby and other two polls are telling the American public that there are only 1 to 5 percentage points between McSame and Obama? Are Americans really that dumb? Get real.

Of course, I suppose the polls are showing there’s really not any difference in the two candidates, huh?

As for me, I’d rather vote for The Monkees than either of the the Nazi two.

123. Mary | 08.20.08

Dear Legal Immigrant,

You appear entrenched in your position, and are free to do so. However, resorting to name calling is a tactic that immedidately negates your point.

My family came to this country before it was the United Stetes, and held the highest office. There were accusations of aetheism and being a secret monarchist. Did you know Abraham Lincoln was accused of being both an aetheist and a Catholic? Or, that Teddy Roosevelt was accused of bargaining with the Mormon Church? Both Truman and Eisenhower were accused of harboring communisits within the government. My personal favorite (because it is the most ridiculous) is Andrew Jackson being accused of cannibalism.

Americans are smart enough to know fear mongering when we see it. We have been through this before.

124. Alfred Keefer | 08.20.08

It’s strange how both parties and candidates make little precise sound bites and then we take those bites and pass them on, extort, and exaggerate them to the extreme right or left. The polls, and most of the comments I read, make me sadden by how divided and angry our country is. The one thing that seems to bother me most is how negative and nasty we can be about differing points of view. I do understand, and have little or No Torrance for prejudices and extremely ignorant comments. Be a little cynical about what you hear. That’s fine. Especially do some critical thinking about the candidates and their issues. I have hope that whoever the next candidate is will get our country going in a better direction. I fear it really doesn’t matter whom we elect. I fear that most of the people in our country will continue to just complain and make angry, stupid ignorant comments instead of constructive well thought out ones.

125. nofreelunch | 08.20.08

Education for our liberal friends on this thread.

Conservative Principles

1. Freedom of the Individual

2. Reponsibility of the Individual
A. Make Good Choices
B. Work Hard
C. Be Self Reliant
D. Be Accountable
E. Be Persistent

3. Limited Government at all Levels
A. Low Taxes
B. Transparency

4. Free Markets

5. Understand There is No Free Lunch

The above are basic beliefs. Religion, abortion, drugs, race or creed does not enter in to it. Anybody (even liberals) that follows the responsibility principles can be very successful, as proven by new immigrants. Notice, that there is no mention of groups or government except number 3. Conservatism is individualist in nature. Liberalism tends to be more about idealism, emotion, and group behavior, and less about princples.

126. Animaltalker | 08.20.08

McCain’s up after running lots of negative ads on the Olympics (So glad I could fast forward through them on my DVR after i’d heard them once)

Mister “I’m a former POW” so of course I wouldn’t lie is certainly capable of stretching the truth about his opponent, some Chrisitian, maybe we should get him a copy of the ten commandments and point out the ones he’s broken or is bending the heck out of.

127. mark | 08.20.08

I’m a first generation American, so please don’t judge my English.

I often find myself on the conservative side of political debates, because I grew up in a traditional Christian family, in a country that has too much respect for strong and nosy government and high taxes. Four years ago was the first time I could vote, and I voted for Republicans. Boy, what they’ve done with the budget of this country is just insane! I don’t think this kind of spending and this kind of government is anything that could be called “conservative”!

I haven’t decided who I’m going to vote for this fall. I thought McCain would be the lesser of two bad choices, as again, I’m never in favor of higher taxes on upper middle class (me) and confiscating from rich, who just might be the ones who give us jobs…

Anyway, after watching the Saddleback forum I kinda liked Obama. I think he was sincere in his responses, and he seemed to be able to think before giving his opinions. I don’t know… He’s a “dark horse” for sure, and his affiliations do make me worry. I guess, we’ll see… I wish we could watch more of their discussions that reveal who they truly are.

128. brad | 08.20.08

But would you really want Cindy McCain as first lady? With another face lift, she’ll be wearing a beard, and those supportive news conference smiles are so tight, they seem like a grimace. Is this kind of authenticity we want in the White House? How many moms do you know who look like this? Can we extend judgements made on a personal level to the kind of decisions likely to made as leader of the free world? Yikes!

129. THE curiousblack | 08.20.08

for those of you afraid of raising taxes, are you aware that the wars our military is engaged in cost money? the wars cost billions per week. you live, work, buy things you need to live; where did you think the money would come from? with unemployment creeping up and therefore the tax base withering away there is no way to increase the solvency of the U.S. and shore up a very weak dollar without raising taxes. Phil Gramm,author of the balanced budget amendment knew this befre he began calling us whiners and john george should say “read my lip-sync”, as he too would have to raise taxes or work with a cash strapped government. Believe it or not, soldiers, sailors, airmen and marines while self sacrificing do not wish to do so knowing their families are starving and losing their homes to fulfill stupid campaign promises. especially promises made by a man (McCain) who has voted already to deny them their GI benefits.

130. THE curiousblack | 08.20.08

in an effort to appeal to more republicans, johngeorge mcsame selects a new theme song.
Day after day,
Alone on a hill,
The man with the foolish grin is keeping perfectly still
But johngeorge wants to know him,
They can see that he’s just a fool,
And he never gives a straight answer,
Well on the way,
Head in a cloud,
The man of a 1000 voices talking perfectly loud
But nobody ever hears him,
Or the sound he appears to make,
And he never seems to notice,
But the fool on the hill,
Sees the sun going down,
And the eyes in his head,
See the world spinning ’round.
And georgejohn seems to like him,
They can tell what he wants to do,
And he shows his tantrums,
the fool on the hill,
Beatles fans say: “Wow, they saw this coming!”

131. Obama is Magic | 08.21.08

Being as I don’t make that much money, I am not a fan of giving it away in the form of entitlements. I do however understand that national security is critical and during a time of war, everyone needs to demonstrate some form of sacrifice for the good of all. Higher taxes to pay for the war are understandable and acceptable, I think the generations before have done their share and so should we.

I think Bush is a maniac who has destroyed our reputation, however, hindsight is 20/20. Since Gore or Kerry were not up to being able to win an election, we will never know the potential of screw ups they could have been either.

Being as Bush did not uphold the conservative values that he should have, his credibility with conservatives is obviously reflected in his popularity numbers. True conservatives are still what this country needs though, I just wish there was a true conservative candidate that everyone could point to proudly. Since one is not there, Obama is not the answer.

132. George Goodman | 08.21.08

Shameless Barack who accused Hillary of using gender card, now not hesitating a bit at all for using Race card anywhere any time, must apologize to Hilary, if he is a good man. This will prove that he is not an empty suit. If he is really not an empty suit, then this inexperienced guy should surrender the nomination to Hillary and walk away to gain experience rather than wasting hundreds of million dollars of public money. I know the celebrity, the arrogant ONE will not do any of those, will not return the hundreds of thousands he received from Tony Resco, who is in Illinois jail and also will not stop flip flopping glory.. God Help America..

133. nofreelunch | 08.21.08

Look, This election campaign has been going on for almost two years. You can hide who you really are for a while, but not for two years. Only 10-12% of voters say they are undecided. Every day more of them see Obama for what he is, a candidate from the extreme left of the democractic party. That’s why Obama is slipping in the polls. No candidate from the extreme left or right can possibly win. Only someone near the center. It has nothing to do with race or gender, and all the advertising in the world, won’t change it. The electorate sees it, it’s over. McCain wins big & it’s the democrats’ fault, not John McCain’s.

134. Elsa | 08.21.08

To Erik # 7 and to Brad # 128 Aleast John McCain will wear an American flag on his lapel and salute the American Flag and believes abortion is murder. To Brad regarding Cindy McCain being First Lady. She is very pretty atleast she doesn’t go around with a fake smile on her face , bugging her eyes out while pointing to the audience a hundred times like she knows the person she is pointing at. Now look at Hillary she doesn’t look like the same person while she was in the lime light. Both can be considered fake. Why did Obama drop his middle name?????? Oh, yes I can see us now saying President Barak Hussin Obama. Ugh, sounds like I am in Iraq. If you want to know what is right read the Bible. We are living in the last days and the last Book in the Bible. Read Revelations if you want to see who is right and where we are headed. If you are not a Christian you won’t be able to understand it so find a good preacher that can interupt it for you.

135. Josh Alexander | 08.21.08

Hey #127 Mark, your English is better than most of the posters on these sites, who don’t even have the excuse of it being their second language. Good for you.

Let’s all admire #133 Elsa:

“Aleast (oops) John McCain will wear an American flag on his lapel… She is very pretty atleast (oops again) she doesn’t go around… President Barak Hussin Obama (two out of three names wrong!)… If you are not a Christian you won’t be able to understand it so find a good preacher that can interupt (wrong word AND spelled wrong) it for you.”

136. nofreelunch | 08.21.08

Hey #135 Josh Alexander,you appear to have your head in a cloud of smug. You must be a liberal. The Ace of Spades HQ recently wrote an article that makes me think of you. It follows:

Liberals considers themselves to be educated and enlightened. It matters not how little actual schooling a particlular leftist may have had, nor how unintelligent the person might be. They all consider themselves intellectuals of sorts. If they dropped out of college after one semester, they just think of themselves as autodidacts whose genius could not be stimulated by the ossified and bourgeois teaching of the academy. If they’re just plain whacko — like, say, Charlie Sheen or Rosie O’donnell– they indulge in farcial conspiracy-theorizing, reassuring themselves that they are intellectual because they know things others do not. They are one of the chosen few, brave enough to see past the web of lies and glimpse the arcane truth behind, say, the implosion of the World Trade Center (a SEAL team planted those charges, you know?).

This conceit, usually wholly undeserved, of practically every leftist in the world is what makes leftism so intoxicating for the intellectually insecure, and what makes leftists so easily led and manipulated. It’s an attractive doctrine for those who wish to conceive of themselves as intellectual and brilliant, for it provides an instant short-cut to the equivalent of an MIT education. If you simply believe these things we tell you to believe, you are one of Us, one of the Intellectually Elite, one of the Cultural Vanguard. Just as giving oneself to Christ, and believing in His power, and accepting the need for and gift of His redemption, instantly makes one “saved” and enters one’s name in the Book of the Heaven, so too does accepting leftist tropes and core beliefs make one, one of the Secular Elect.

Have a nice day.

137. Ditches | 08.22.08

nofreelunch,

That sure is a neat, over-generalizing, piece of drivel that you’ve managed to vomit onto this thread via your miraculously witty copy-paste skills. That’s the equivalent of me saying that every conservative is either a buck-toothed, bible-thumping, intolerant redneck, or a malicious, selfish, conniving, greedy profiteer. These are ridiculous stereotypes that, when regurgitated with sincerity, make the propagator look like an ignorant fool. So, well done sir!

Have a spectacular day!

138. nofreelunch | 08.22.08

Ditches,

Everybody is ignorant, there are no exceptions. I admit it’s over-generalized, but it seems to have struck a nerve. Do you fit the stereotype?

139. Ditches | 08.22.08

nofreelunch,

“Everybody is ignorant, there are no exceptions.”
Indeed, some people just advertise it a little more than others.

“I admit it’s over-generalized, but it seems to have struck a nerve.”
Yes, generalizations strike a nerve with me. I have found myself on the other side of this as well, chastising someone for assuming that republican = ignorant redneck.

“Do you fit the stereotype?”
Does it even matter how I answer this? You’ve obviously proven that preconceived notions hold a certain sway over you. I’m not convinced that you’d believe anything I tell you about myself, rather than dismissing it and sticking to your presumption.

140. Josh Alexander | 08.23.08

#136, nofreelunch - Nope, not a liberal at all actually. Just an English teacher who is impressed by a self-proclaimed (and unnecessarily apologetic) guy who took the time out of his day to really form his opinions into a coherent and proofread paragraph.

Note that I never made fun of Elsa for declaring that we’re all living in the End Times or for being a Christian. The first is a valid opinion and the second is nothing to sneer at for any reason.

I think that anyone who wants to persuade other people to vote for either candidate should take the additional ten seconds to look over what they wrote and correct the errors. You can call that smug if you like; I call it taking pride in a new American who cares about words.

If you or Elsa or other Americans are “intellectually insecure” then use a spell-checker, or grab a dictionary, or use the internet to double-check anything you’re not sure about. In Elsa’s case, her misspelling Barack Obama’s name just undermines her entire post. Can you take her opinion seriously if she can’t even scroll up to the top of the page and check how it is spelled?

It isn’t anti-American to spell correctly or to take pride in your intelligence. As a matter of fact, I think #127 Mark is the best thing about this country. A new addition to the country, who genuinely cares, who takes time and pride in his self-expression.

As for the stereotype you mentioned, I’d say I don’t fit it. I don’t consider myself to be an intellectual. I’m certainly not a celebrity like Rosie O’Donnell or Charlie Sheen - nor would I consider either to be heroes of mine. I didn’t drop out of college and I don’t think I’m a member of any kind of intellectual elite. An elitist would revel in the fact that they are smarter than everyone else and bask in that fact. I’m a teacher - encouraging all my students, liberal or not, to learn to spell properly and construct stronger arguments in their papers so that they can take their perfectly valid opinions (whatever they may be) and express them well in an open forum.

That way they’ll have a chance of persuading others, as opposed to actually undermining themselves by writing poorly.

141. Scott | 08.24.08

McSame is DOA! The electoral votes determine who wins the election, not the popular vote. And right now the Repugnants are fighting to hold the states they used to have a lock on i.e. Virginia, Colorado, Nevada. The Repugnanats are on the defensive on their own 20 yard line.

142. Nancy | 08.25.08

Wow, what a heap of pseudo-intellectuals on this website. No need to write an annoyingly long diatribe here…clearly that will show how much smarter I am than the rest of you. By the way, Erik (#7): You’re right, getting shot down and being a POW doesn’t make a person the best choice for President. I’m curious though, what has BHO done that makes him qualified? Please enlighten me.

143. Ditches | 08.26.08

“Wow, what a heap of pseudo-intellectuals on this website. No need to write an annoyingly long diatribe here…clearly that will show how much smarter I am than the rest of you.”

No, but your scathing, two-sentence critique of the entire forum obviously does…