(Jake Turcotte)
Five things McCain and Obama must do in tonight’s debate
By Jimmy Orr | 10.07.08
Although the pressure on John McCain and Barack Obama can’t be anything like what Sarah Palin experienced last week, the two are still performing under the bright lights of an unforgiving American public when they debate this evening.
The armchair quarterbacks at home all know how to debate much better than they do. And they’ll be hurling epithets at the television screen when their candidate misses an opportunity to verbally mangle his opponent or launch a one-liner that will soar the politician into the Lloyd Bentsen Hall of Fame.
One thing is certain: we’re a tough crowd.
Advantage?
On the surface, it can be argued that McCain has the home-field advantage. The town-hall format is something he prefers and has demonstrated much skill in.
The format allows for direct questioning of the candidates by the audience, rather than a robot Jim Lehrer, who asked the questions last month during the first presidential debate. NBC’s Tom Brokaw is moderating the event tonight.
Unlike Gwen Ifill, who moderated the vice presidential debate last week, Brokaw – as far as we know – is not writing a book on either candidate so the issue of bias, which blew up between partisans in chat rooms all over the Internet, is off the table. But then is bias ever off the table?
How to win
So what are the keys to victory? Much like when Terry Bradshaw and Mike Ditka outline what each team must do in this hallowed and sacred part of the year known as Football Season, we’ve asked a couple of armchair political quarterbacks to help us analyze tonight’s debate.
In this corner…
Chris Lehane is a Democratic strategist, frequent television commentator and former staffer in the Clinton White House. He provided:
O’s Five Principals of Combat
1. Error free ball: The trajectory of this campaign will not change unless O makes a real mistake that plays into a negative storyline (inexperience, elite/arrogant). And the history of presidential debates is that they usually alter the fundamentals of a campaign only when a candidate makes a major mistake that plays into a negative typecast. Thus, no mistakes on something that matters.
2. Counter-punch like Muhammad Ali: Ali, one of the greatest heavyweights ever, knocked out big punchers like Foreman, Norton, and Frazier by counter-punching. Like Ali, Obama needs to hit back when McCain attacks, because voters absolutely want to know that the person in the Oval Office will stand up and fight for them, and because McCain’s chin will be exposed when he bull-rushes Obama.
3. Be Michael Corleone and not Sonny or Fredo: Obama can’t be like Sonny and go in swinging away without a real plan and he can’t be Fredo and not fight back. He needs to be Michael – smart and shrewd in taking on his opponent.
And being Michael in this debate – and campaign – means homing in on a character compare-and-contrast focused on “who do you trust to make the right economic decisions for you and your family.”
Trust on the economy is where Obama wins when he counter-punches – it is the cut above McCain’s eye that he should just pound on at every opportunity (as Biden did in the VP debate).
4. It is Oprah, not a Harvard vs. Yale debate: The public watches these debates to get a sense of the character of the candidates. Voters are not scoring it like a Harvard versus Yale debate, but watch it the same way they would watch Oprah.
Given that it is a town-hall style debate involving direct interaction with the audience, the premium on connecting in terms of a candidate’s character is even higher than in a moderated debate.
Candidates have made mistakes in the past that badly hurt them – not just because of what they said – but how they looked. Bush Sr. at his watch; Nixon’s darting eyes; Gore sighs.
5. You don’t have to win: Obama does not have to win in a conventional sense. He just has to avoid doing anything that changes the fundamentals of the campaign. Thus, don’t let a need to win the debate lead to Obama being “hot” or “out of character.”
In this corner…
Rob Stutzman is a Republican strategist, frequent television commentator and former communications director for Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger. He offers:
The Five Things John McCain Must Do
1. Be stern but calm. Don’t appear angry. Angry John McCain is not reassuring. Keep it in check. Your temperament is an issue, don’t fuel the concerns.
2. Speak to Americans who are sitting at home on their sofa scared about the threat to their way of life. Show them you understand. Talk passionately about middle-class Americans the same way you speak with deep conviction about our brave men and women in uniform.
3. Give those same people the confidence you can lead them through this crisis with an agenda of tax cuts, economic growth, and energy independence that creates American jobs and keeps energy dollars in the USA. Tell them that’s why you want to be their president.
At the moment, Americans don’t care as much that you were right about The Surge as they want to see someone who will protect the middle class. That’s not your wheelhouse, but it’s the best shot you have at turning this race around.
4. Take on Keating 5 and turn it on Obama. Own it. Talk about how it changed you into a bipartisan reformer. Challenge Obama to describe his life defining experiences that have prepared him to serve. Remind Americans of the Obama experience deficit in dramatic fashion.
Challenge him to cite the great bipartisan accomplishment of his career before you rip off the litany substantive bipartisan achievements you own.
5. Give the performance of your life. Now is your moment. Tonight’s your format. The bleeding in red states must stop now or a Obama landslide could start to manifest itself. Tonight’s an elimination game. Play like there’s no tomorrow.
When
With this information, download your John McCain bingo card or your Barack Obama bingo card and let the games begin. The debate begins at 9pm (ET) and will be broadcast on all network and cable news programs. It will also be streamed on the Internet.
<< Forget Palin, McCain needs Peyton | MainComments
2. Scotty | 10.07.08
I sorta respected McCain, until Palin went so hideously negative. For me, tonight’s debate is academic. They’re finished (and they did themselves in to boot!)
McCain-Palin: Dead man walking meets empty head talking.
3. Ryan Healey | 10.07.08
The “Obama Landslide” has already started. McCain IS angry, he does feel this is his last chance to be President and he sees it slipping away. An angry and frustrated McCain that won’t even look at Obama is a receipe for disaster. McCain also has a “fake smirk” that looks sinister. He doesn’t fake happy well and the public will see right through it.
4. Cyn | 10.07.08
A great debate would recognize that the American people want to hear what each candidate will do to fix the economy, Iraq et al. We don’t want to hear allegations and refutation. We don’t want personal attacks. We want to know what the candidates plan to do in office, and how that candidate proposes to achieve his objectives, so we can make sound judgements. McCain/Palin’s latest attacks against Obama feel like that same ole’ republicans…. believing that once again, their fear tactics will force the American people to vote their way. Their character assassination and accusations are desperate measures from desperate politicians. It’s déjà vu - exactly how Bush won; invoking fear and trepidation into the American people. I would hope McCain would stick to the enormous issues this country is facing, but alas, since he is not winning and can not win on his own value, I predict he will resort to the “ugly” politics.
5. Treetmi Wright | 10.07.08
It’s UnConstitutional
As election time rolls around, lets get to the heart of the situation. It’s not about who cavorts with whom or who’s more qualified - it’s really about who understands our Constitution.
When our ancestors fled Europe to escape oppression from horrible dictatorial regimes, they drafted something different for the future of the Americas. Freedom and no oppression. Because of the current state of economic affairs in this country, it’s citizens are experiencing oppression. Our lawmakers, the people who we’ve entrusted with the care of our land, really need to stop thinking about themselves and focus on what’s best for America.
So for this election - and all future elections - from President to Dog Catcher, the candidate who gets the job should be the one who not only takes the Constitution seriously but actually understands it and does everything in his or her power to make sure our homeland remains free from the oppression that would be caused by it’s leaders.
6. sham debate | 10.07.08
John McCain is used to force the election of Barack Obama.
Barack Obama forced you to pay for Wall Street’s bailout.
Stop the extortion, blackmail, bribery, and division;
Ron Paul, Ralph Nader, and Cynthia McKinney.
“The two parties should be
almost identical, so that
the American people can
‘throw the rascals out’
at any election without
leading to any profound or
extensive shifts in policy.”
- Carol Quigley
7. FriendlyFred | 10.07.08
How could John McCain turn the “Keating Five” scandal around on Obama?
Pardon me if I am wrong, but McCain is the one who fought for the deregulation and tried to protect Keating and crooks from doing any jail time. Barack had NOTHING to do with that.
http://www.congratstothewinners.com/2008/10/john-mccain-keating-five.html
9. Stephen Nicholson | 10.07.08
Defense attorneys do use that strategy. “Mr. District Attorney, my client is willing to plead guilty if you recommend the minimum sentence. The experience has changed his life and he won’t do it agin.”
“Ok, but he also must allocute (describe how he committed his crime) in court.”
“Done.”
10. Da Truth | 10.07.08
I saw a report somewhere that the people who think O’bama is Qualified, are the same ones who though OJ was innocent.
11. Becky | 10.07.08
Shripathi, excellent.
If Obama was involved in a “Keating 5″ case, you betcha the Republicans would be attacking the issue like bull-dogs. Democrats have learned from past elections to fight back! And that is why Obama will win. Fighting back with facts.
McCain fights with lies. If that’s what a maverick is, “thanks but no thanks”.
12. Mark | 10.07.08
This was a very good contrast in the candidates…my hat to each strategest’s in their analysis. I might add that McCain as well, might be served to prepare for a question that might come that talks aboout his negitive tone…if he has a good answer and can come away that he is willing to go back to trying to win on the issues, he will have a chance to win the debate and make race a bit closer, but i really think Obama is going to win the whole deal….As for Obama, he has to make sure he is being Presidential. It is important that public see him as a leader - do not get sucked into a angry exchange with McCain - or as our Moms and Dads once said, “be careful about being sucked in the lions den”…you cannot survive there….In the end, if Obama keeps his cool, continues to show more substance,then he will prevail - By my count looks like he will win about 330 EC votes to McCains 220 or so….and that my friends (as McCain always says on the stump, “that will about do it)
13. Mike | 10.07.08
I don’t see where the Keating 5 is a disadvantage for McCain considering he was cleared of all allegations. Obama tries to hide the truth of his past and when people find out about his associations he tries to discredit them or act like he has no idea what you are talking about. Be aware of the people you surround yourself with. The friends you have make who you are.
14. erik | 10.07.08
I agree with scotty, but all of this hate mongering that Palin is doing is simply dangerous and has no place in American politics. I sort of felt bad for this woman for a second now I want her to go down in flames with the lies she is spreading to very impressionable people (to put it mildly).
Send Palin home where they can boot her from office themselves.
15. charles | 10.07.08
Expect McCain to interject sentimentality into the debate to evoke subconcious ethnocentrism and fear. Don’t be fooled or distracted it when he tries to make himself appear more patriotic than Barack. It would be appropriate to take points away when he tries those underhanded diversionary tactics.
Also don’t let him get away with losing and calling it winning simply because he’s expected to lose anyway.
16. zorg | 10.07.08
McCain needs to show regret for Keating so America knows he shouldn’t be punished for it.
Just like Republican Congressman Foley, who regretted molesting boys whose parents assumed they would be safe volunteering as pages in Congress: he really regretted it, so he doesn’t need to be punished. Just like Craig, Visser, and DeLay.
Republicans are very moral and feel really deep regret when they’ve done wrong. It’s between them and God and the voters should just stay out of it. Unlike those crafty Democrats who seem to be able to cause trouble even when the Republicans control all three branches of government for eight years. (I’d say six but the Dems never reached a large enough majority to override vetos.)
Well, okay, actually electing the McCain/Keating scandal would be sending the wrong message about cleaning up the financial mess that is threatening my 401(K). I was just being sarcastic about the notion that regretting wrongdoing is enough.
17. Greg | 10.07.08
Shripathi Kamath….
I agree with you, but I know where he is coming from. Unfortunately, McCain has gotten a free ride character wise because his father was a high ranking admiral during the war McCain was a POW. That is why he gets all of this hero’s welcome. Obama can’t say this because people wouldn’t understand it. If Jessica Lynch had an admirl during the Iraq war America would have believed she was a hero because the real story would have been kept under wraps. I just wish I could be there to ask him questions about his previous wife, how did his present wife hurt her arm earlier, and specifics about his lack of support for those enlisted. And all the noise they make about the surge working is pure politics. They change the specifics to get our vote. They politics with words. If someone says “wasted lives” they make it seem like a person is talking down a soldier when it fact they value their life. There is no getting around whether he had to vote or not, Obama has been on the money about Afghanistan and Iraq.
Go Obama/Biden! Go Obama/Biden!
18. NK | 10.07.08
Not bad. Barack hasn’t really shown an ability to ‘connect’ with voters and this is the type of format where that inability can become exposed. Given that this debate will take place in Tennessee, he’ll already be in a very red state and I assume most of the people in the audience will represent Republican values. None the less people are scared in this economy so if Barack can come through as both calm and a little more empathetic than usual he should be fine. I’d be surprised if McCain takes a forceful, accusatory stance in this forum but I’m sure Mr. Schmidt and others will be pushing the character assasination agenda regardless. Senator McCain, despite his campaign agenda, is a good man and if he can allow that to shine through, rather than the talking points, he will also perform well. I’m not sure partisan rankling will work well in a forum where people just want to understand how problems should and will be solved. Should be interesting…
20. Bioflavin | 10.07.08
Most of all they both need to talk to the people asking the questions, not respond to negative campaign ads. People want a candidate who is focused on the current issues, for the most part these past issues are done and resolved. Obama simply needs to explain that he denounces a former colleagues actions and McCain needs to convince America he learned from his actions. Yet, McCain is in more of a bind because he was directly involved with the Keating scandal, where Barack is too far removed from the situation for it to even be an issue.
21. Thomas Peterson | 10.07.08
“McCain, ranking Republican on the Senate Armed Services Committee and a decorated Navy fighter pilot who spent 5½ years as a prisoner of war in Vietnam, received a D on the report card from Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America. He is one of nine lawmakers — four senators and five members of the House of Representatives — who received a D or F from the nonprofit, nonpartisan group.
McCain’s presidential campaign staff did not respond to calls asking for comment on the report.”
This news is from Armytimes.com: http://www.armytimes.com/news/2008/10/military_vets_congress_reportcard_100708/
22. palinwasapornstar | 10.07.08
You really call yourself “Da Truth”? Have some self-respect will you?
We’re all going to see a desparate man sink to new low levels all leading to self-implosion where the true winners will be the American people! But on the good side, at least they taught Palin how to memorize things - like her word for word response to global warming she showed in the Katie Couric interview and then again in the VP debate….WORD FOR WORD. Way to go Sarah, we’re all proud of you!
OBAMA/BIDEN 2008
23. John | 10.07.08
McSame may have gotten off with the Keating thing, but the thing is he took money took vacations, and was a good friend of the family for many years. But how about McSame and Gordon Liddy. He has been on Liddy’s radio show and palled around with him. Liddy is a convicted Watergate killer. He brags about how he was such a covert CIA guy. What a hero. We really don’t need any more crappola in the White House. 8 years has been enough.
24. icarus | 10.07.08
From Fox News:
http://embeds.blogs.foxnews.com/2008/10/07/palin-previews-tonights-debate/
Quote: Palin said. “John McCain is the only man in this race who will solve the economic crisis and not exploit it and as Senator, he’s seen the corrupt ways of Washington and wasteful spending and other abuses of power. And as president, I promise you I’m gonna help him do this, we’re gonna end those abuses.”
Comment: Why didn’t she say, “And as VICE president, I promise you I’m gonna help him do this”??? Freudian slip!!!
Quote: “(Palin) said that a McCain-Palin administration would impose a “spending freeze” in government besides for its “most vital functions.” She also said they would “review every federal agency” and “eliminate” the parts that “aren’t working for the American people.”
Comment: There you go. The government just gave hundreds of billions of taxpayer dollars to Wall Street. Hence it will now only provide the “most vital functions” to the taxpayers.
25. B. King | 10.07.08
The level of complete confidence in Barrack Obama’s proposed policy agenda and alleged superior skill and judgement for the duties of President of the United States of America is based purely on emotion and feeling. No historical fact or precedent exists to support his case that increased spending and taxation will alleviate the current economic downturn. While sufficient evidence exists that either reduction or elimination of capital gains taxes and reduction of corporate taxes increases capital within markets and improves liquidity. Additionally, significant foreign policy experience will be required to adequately protect the United States from future terrorist attacks. New York City will undoubtable go for Barrack Obama. The irony there is that the two major issues facing our nation that I mentioned above will most directly impact the citizens of NYC.
26. Nate | 10.07.08
@Da Truth: “I saw a report somewhere that the people who think O’bama is Qualified, are the same ones who though OJ was innocent.”
Wow. Just. Wow.
That is maybe the dumbest thing I’ve ever heard. Talk about reaching…
27. c77r | 10.07.08
McCain’s advantage re Keating5 is that that’s over and done with (unless you want to re-open the investigation in hopes to arrive at a verdict other than “poor judgment”).
Obama’s exposure is that he has not explained Ayers (and a few other questionable associations) - he simply isn’t done with it no matter how much he wants to be.
If the first debate was an indication, it’s not McCain that has to work to control his temper, it’s Obama. It should be a good show tonight 
28. Jim | 10.07.08
I don’t suspect that McCain will be able to own the Keating situation. Beyond the direct relationship, letters to regulators, shared vacations, campaign contributions — it looks awfully bad for McCain given the current economic situation and its causes. McCain fought for the deregulation of the S&Ls and allowing riskier investments, which lead to the S&L crisis. What did he learn by owning that? Well, a little later he got into bed with Phil Gramm to support the deregulation of the banking industry and the allowance of riskier investments, which led to the sub-prime mortgage industry taking off and then failing — bringing down several banks, my 401K, and leading to a $700 billion bailout. NOW he says he’ll fight for tougher regulation? I don’t think so.
29. Leonardo DiCrapio | 10.07.08
McCain needs to turn Keating 5 to his advantage in a few short sentences. McCain should say that Keating 5 was a long time ago — over 20 years ago (before Barry had met Jeremiah) — when McCain was a Junior Senator with not that much experience. McCain didn’t think he was qualified to be President in 1985 and the experience taught McCain a valuable lesson (one that Barry, as a Junior Senator in 2005, learned when buying a house on the same day as an adjacent garden plot from the property was sold to Tony Rezko’s wife). And McCain has more than twenty years of experience to excercise sound judgement. Barry — on the other hand — was a community organizer for Acorn, who pushed for no documentation mortgage loans to impoverished people, which was supported by President William Jefferson Clinton, who pushed for (and eventually signed into law) legislation that allowed welfare (government assistance) checks to be used as qualification for mortgage loans. And Barry was one of the largest recipients of Fannie and Freddie, along with Barnie Frank and Chris Dodd. McCain on the other hand called for reform to Fannie three years ago, but the Democrats cried foul (as they took in money from Barrack Obama’s current advisors, at least one of whom was a CEO of Fannie Mae at the time), claiming there were no problems at Fannie and Freddie (and blocked any attempted legislation).
30. Alex P | 10.07.08
Regarding Mikes comment “The friends you have make who you are.”
Thats very true Mike, just look at the people on McCains side. Phil the ‘Whiner’ Gram still there, undoubtedly Carl Rove, and lets not forget Keating, or Palin the VP wannabe who has incited violence and cries of Kill him.
I’m sure Adolf and joe Stalin are smiling after all under Bush we have internment without trial and the state organ to do this just like Joe. The KGB ,Committee for State Security, and now Homeland Security all we need is a rapid nut case in charge.
What happened to the constitution and a fair trial? Gone
33. ZAP | 10.07.08
I have a one-point sure-fire debate- and election-winning strategy for Obama:
At some point (preferably early on), respond to a question by talking about how uncomfortable you are with the trend towards negative campaigning and how it doesn’t server the American people, who have serious and pressing issues that need to be resolved in a cooperative spirit. Tell McCain (ask him to look at you) that you promise that neither your campaign nor surrogates that you have control over will engage in any negative campaigning or character assassination in any format between now and the election if McCain will agree to do the same.
Game over, Obama.
34. JoeW | 10.07.08
I believe that Obama has the game in hand.
He can either close the deal or let McCain slide back into the race. There is nothing that McCain, by himself, can do to stop this.
Everything that I have seen of Obama so far, seems to indicate he has no fear of success.
I have seen Republican advisors say that Obama should be leading by 20% by now.
Actually, I believe the opposite:
If McCain had studied how the economy works while being paid by the taxpayers for the last 26 years, and if he ACTUALLY CARED FOR THE MIDDLE CLASS, and if he had vigilantly protected his integrity, his numbers victory would be staggering.
36. Rick | 10.07.08
The entire Obama/Biden campaign is based on FEAR of “another Bush administration”, which means that they:
1) Constantly blame BUSH for anything negative (the economy, Iraq, 9/11, etc, etc) - over and over and over - Bush did THIS, Bush did THAT. Actually, it was Clinton (a DEM) who initiated loosening restrictions on loans back in 1999. And we DID have oversight over Freddie Mac/Fannie Mae - but the Democrats chose to ignore it a few years ago. And Obama had the gall to tell Congress to “get this done” (the bailout), even though he didn’t even bother to vote on it AT ALL the first time.
2) Take every opportunity to claim that McCain would be just another Bush. It doesn’t matter if it is true or not, since most people won’t take the time to compare and contrast. Just keep repeating it over and over and over and people will start believing it.
THAT’S ALL! Without Bush, Obama would have nothing to campaign about. He is a SOCIALIST, people - no matter how many times he’s denied it, taxing the rich and giving to the poor is called “redistribution of wealth”, one of the most basic foundations of socialism. And Socialism is defined as the first step towards communism.
For those of you who think it sounds nice to take from the “haves” and give to the “have-nots”, ask yourself this - would you rather work hard and then have your money taken away and given to people who don’t work at all, OR would you rather just sit at home, do nothing and let the government give you money? MOST people will choose the 2nd option. Obama’s government will encourage people to live off government handouts while discouraging people from becoming too successful (aka, “rich”). Hmmm, that doesn’t sound like it will create a healthy economy. The “haves” will simply take their businesses (and jobs, and tax money) elsewhere, and we will be left with our hands out saying “feed me”.
37. E.F. Cunningham | 10.07.08
Don’t you wish that the candidates would check out some of the various ‘comments’ to get a handle on what those watching are asking? Makes sense to me, and that’s why it never happens!
38. henry landis | 10.07.08
It seems clear to me that with about 46% of the electorate hard-wired to each of them the real contest is for the undecided (or uncommitted)8%. This group is less likely to be swayed by personal attacks, and will be won over by Obama’s or McCain’s ability to convince them of his understanding of the financial crisis. Pocketbook issues will always be the deciding factor, and if McCain continues talking about taxes he might as well cede right now; reduced taxes have little appeal to a small business owner or wage earner who now has NO profits or salary to have taxed ! Impugning (or having Palin impugn) Obama’s character has only alienated voters who remember McCain’s call for a clean campaign, only to see him now engaging in the very same tactics he deplored just a few months ago. For Obama, the mistake would be to “take the high road” and ignore the attacks; this would seem to be tacitly admitting to the charges. He must first forcefully denounce them, and then immediately hammer the bread and butter issues. THAT”s where the votes really are. All this advice is free because that’s what either candidate would probably pay for it, but on the day after the election ONE of them will wish he had taken it.
39. Robert | 10.07.08
If you want to know the real McCain, check out this article. If you are a McCain supporter, you probably will not want this information.
http://www.rollingstone.com/news/story/23316912/makebelieve_maverick/print
Robert
40. Jazzgasm | 10.07.08
Mike posts: “Be aware of the people you surround yourself with. The friends you have make who you are.”
I understand what Mike is getting at, but I ultimately disagree. I have very conservative (and even racist) friends. I also have extremely liberal gay and minority friends. I have friends who are coarse and vulgar as well as those who are introverted and shy in their demeanor. I have friends who are harshly and condescendingly Atheistic as well as friends who are preachy Christians.
Somehow, despite knowing and associating with these people, I am neither very conservative, racist, extremely liberal, gay, introverted or preachy. I will admit that I can be coarse at times and I am an Atheist, though not one of those who shoves my non-religious beliefs down the throats of others. My point being, one can know (and even work with) people who don’t share all their values and not become a clone. Don’t we want a President who understands and has experienced people with different views and philosophies? I agree that if Obama (as an 8-year-old boy) was planting pipe bombs with William Ayers, he’s probably not the best choice for President. However, this is hardly the case. Also, a great deal is made of Obama having grown up around a lot of Muslims. Again, I don’t understand how this is a negative. Maybe it’s not such a bad idea for a U.S. President to have some understanding of Islamic culture in this day and age. Even if you consider Islam to be “the enemy” don’t you want a President who might better understand the mindset of that enemy?
41. Jason | 10.07.08
I think Palin secretly wants McCain to lose so she doesn’t have to deal with this huge crisis. Otherwise, she wouldn’t give people the opportunity to bring up the Keating 5 scandal. Maybe she’s playing dumb so she can rush back to Alaska and not have to deal with a recent erratic McCain.
42. Laua | 10.07.08
The tips for McCain are actually funny:
1. “Don’t appear angry.”
Really? Anger is apparently all McCain has left, and he can’t hide it.
2. “Speak to Americans who are sitting at home on their sofa scared about the threat to their way of life.”
Let’s see: McCain has a wife worth over $100 million, owns multiple vehicles and properties, parties globally, is closely tied to the worst administration in American history, and may have helped ruin the US financially. Sure, he’s a GREAT guy to reassure that tender creature, Joe Sixpack.
3. “Give those same people the confidence you can lead them through this crisis with an agenda of tax cuts, economic growth, and energy independence that creates American jobs and keeps energy dollars in the USA.”
…Then tell them (based on your actual voting record) you have a bridge in Manahattan you want to sell them.
4. “Take on Keating 5 and turn it on Obama.”
Sadly, another tried-and-true Republican tactic: when in doubt, spray the other candidate with YOUR effluvia and see how much sticks.
5. “Give the performance of your life. Now is your moment. Tonight’s your format. The bleeding in red states must stop now or a Obama landslide could start to manifest itself.”
‘Performance’ is the key word here. Maybe we should cut to the chase and call it what it is: Tell the voting public whatever it takes to fool them, even if it’s an outright lie and defames the other candidate.
Oh, and about that landslide…!
43. Alex P | 10.07.08
comments from “the virgin senator”
What has Obama done ? Are you kidding?
Even in this pro repub state where there are no dems the turnout at the local stadium to see Obama was so large almost 25% were left outside . He has given something that most of the establishment on both sides don’t like. He is a fresh face with good ideas of hope to get out of the Washington corruption and get this country back on track.
As for Maverick himself forget it. Look at all the other qualified people in his party and who does he pick. Frankly he should appologise to his party and the people of this nation for the comments she has made and then resign from the senate and this race.
No I’m not a dem , I can shoot and dress my own moose but I would never vote for this republican sham.
45. Dave from Minnesota | 10.07.08
Shripathi Kamath | 10.07.08 questions whether “owning” an issue can turn a disadvantage into an advantage. It can, that fact cuts to the core of “spin,” and the Republican Party is *very* good at it. Look at any of a number of issues. Obama is smarter than McCain; Republicans turned intelligence into a disability by charging that Obama was ‘elite.’ That worked (for the Republicans, not the country). More recently, McCain learned he as going to be audited by the FEC for illegal contributions; he took ownership of the issue though by making the same allegation against Obama. Very slick (but still bad for the country).
For McCain to own the Keating 5 issue, he’d have to make the sales pitch that it was a learning experience and that he’s the wiser for it. If he succeeds, then the issue is off the table. But I don’t see how he can succeed in that. Obama just needs to counter that we’re reliving the savings and loan debacle with the current financial crisis, in large part because McCain didn’t learn.
That’s what they call a debate, I suppose.
46. DisFisCon | 10.07.08
Looking at the Stephen Nicolson snippet:
“Ok, but he also must allocute (describe how he committed his crime) in
court”.
Might turn into an interesting strategy, if McCain tries to turn the Keating Five into a transformative experience. Perhaps Obama should lead him into more or less a full confession. My guess is that the American public would not be forgiving when faced with all the detail.
47. Scott | 10.07.08
“Talk passionately about middle-class Americans the same way you speak with deep conviction about our brave men and women in uniform.”
McCain can’t talk passionately about the middle class because he doesn’t care about the middle class. You can’t fake passion. Viewers will read right through that B.S.
“Take on Keating 5 and turn it on Obama”
This won’t work because the Keating Five scandal didn’t change McCain into a better politician. He showed bad judgment then and he’s had bad judgment recently too. His judgment clearly hasn’t improved over the past 20 years. If McCain tries to “own” the Keating 5 scandal, Obama will “own” McCain.
Obama is going to CRUSH McCain tonight - and on November 4.
48. CE | 10.07.08
Wow. I am seriously finding it difficult to believe that so many people in our wonderful country are sheep. Obama is too inexperienced. “Change” is not choosing a lifelong politician such as Biden for his VP running partner. Palin is just as inexperienced as Obama is. This election is not about philosophy, it needs to be about action (economy, Iraq, Afghanistan, etc) and Obama’s lack of experience (present votes don’t count because they are noncommittal) will not lead us back to prosperity. It kind of reminds me of the whole ARM mortgages, they were a “change” from the proven norm of 30 year fixed, I am scared that this election would result in the same mess if we choose Obama.
Too bad Ron Paul didn’t have media support to woo voters.
49. SLC_Raider | 10.07.08
B.King (#25) states:
While sufficient evidence exists that either reduction or elimination of capital gains taxes and reduction of corporate taxes increases capital within markets and improves liquidity.
Tell me King, exactly what evidence are you talking about? Could it be the evidence of the past 8 years of reduced capital gains and corporate taxes? You know, the exact policies that have our econonmy in such great shape currently (NOT).
The economic policies that you claim will save our economy are the exact policies that have nearly destroyed our economy, and to put Palin/McCane in the white house will only insure that the failed policies of the past 8 years will continue for the next 4. I seriously doubt this country can survive another 4 years of the failed McCain/Bush economic policies.
Time to say NO to STUPID and VOTE for INTELLIGENCE, vote Obama/Biden 2008.
50. Moses | 10.07.08
Barack Obama:
Occidental College - Two years.
Columbia University - B.A. political science with a specialization in international relations.
Harvard - Juris Doctor (J.D.) (Attorney),
Joseph Biden:
University of Delaware - B.A. in history and B.A. in political science.
Syracuse University College of Law - Juris Doctor (J.D.) (Attorney)
VS.
John McCain:
United States Naval Academy - Class rank 894 out of 899 (meaning that, like George Bush, McCain was at the bottom of his class)
Sarah Palin:
Hawaii Pacific University - 1 semester
North Idaho College - 2 semesters - general study
University of Idaho - 2 semesters - journalism
Matanuska-Susitna College - 1 semester
University of Idaho - 3 semesters - B.A. in journalism
Now, which team are you going to hire to lead the most influential nation in the world?
51. JoeW | 10.07.08
RE: 37. E.F. Cunningham | 10.07.08
“Don’t you wish that the candidates would check out some of the various ‘comments’ to get a handle on what those watching are asking? Makes sense to me, and that’s why it never happens!”
You make a great point.
Actually, some of the comments that are submitted are by paid bloggers for both parties. They surely must “borrow” some of the best ideas to send home to their sponsors.
Also, when enough people agree to the truth of a new thought (blog), it becomes our new realty anyways.
52. Richard Moby | 10.07.08
Two things:
1) Germany is not going to approve Georgia or Ukraine for membership in NATO - why? Because they (and all of Europe) are held hostage by Russian oil. American foreign policy is also being held hostage to foreign oil. Which candidate is the most likely to break that situation? McCain - he must focus on that: drill, build new refineries, exceed our own needs so we can SELL oil to others.
2) The Jihadists are quickly taking over Europe, and the wamby-pamby European governments are doing nothing to stop it (eg Germany, Norway, Denmark, France, The Netherlands, Sweden, Austria, Italy, Greece).The USA is next, unless they are stopped. Which candidate is the most likely to break that situation? McCain - he must focus on that: NOT sit down with every enemy and talk, talk, talk.
Talking peace is nice when things are already relatively peaceful. Well today they are not. Obama gives a message of “hope” (you gotta believe!!!). McCain gives a message of toughness, experience under fire, constancy, fearlessness and trustworthiness, a lifelong focus on doing what’s right and what’s best for America.
Other than talk, talk, talk…. what has Obama done? What has he demonstrated? I see nothing but weakness.
The contrast tonight must be clear - resolute, fearless action-oriented leadership versus yak/yak/yak.
54. Alex P | 10.07.08
Regarding the comments from 25. B. King::::
1)The level of complete confidence in Barrack Obama’s proposed policy agenda and alleged superior skill and judgment for the duties of President of the United States of America is based purely on emotion and feeling.
Thats true but we have not seen how McCain would be either so theres nothing to support he would be any better. If we base our vote on his present performance just look who he picked as a VP. They are both hot heads and something we don’t need.
))
2)No historical fact or precedent exists to support his case (Obama’s)that increased spending and taxation will alleviate the current economic downturn. While sufficient evidence exists that either reduction or elimination of capital gains taxes and reduction of corporate taxes increases capital within markets and improves liquidity.
We’ve tried giving money to the rich and pork to all sorts and it doesn’t work. Our economy is in tatters. We are blaming the little guy when his cost of living has doubled in the last few years. How do we expect him to pay his mortgage when he cant afford gas or food.
))
3)Additionally, significant foreign policy experience will be required to adequately protect the United States from future terrorist attacks.
So where is John McCain’s experience , going to war ? Where is his diplomacy if he wont sit with other heads of state unless its on his terms. Having stirred up the middle east are we really safer when we have 1 million illegals here doing God knows what and a border that anyone can smuggle things across.
Do you really beleive these things ?
55. c77r | 10.07.08
My guess is the public is much more interested in Ayers than an issue that has been beaten to death - unless you’re one of those obsessive conspiracy theorists. Or maybe the public want’s to know who the recipients of FM’s contributions were?
On one side, you’re looking at a war hero with a long record - not a perfect record of course (one is allowed to make mistakes). On the other side, you’re looking at someone with virtually no record, few accomplishments to be judged by and an evasive personality.
So why would anybody really be interested in K5 when we have all that juicy new stuff, all the promises with no record to back them up?
Maybe we should take a lesson from Massachusetts and the dissolution with Mr. “together we can” and Obama pal Duval Patrick.
56. Luke Jackson | 10.07.08
In 2003, McCain voted with all of the Republicans (unanimous vote) to pass the American Dream Downpayment Act:
http://www.hud.gov/news/release.cfm?content=pr03-140.cfm
This act started the housing bubble and the whole subprime mess that required a $700B bailout.
The bill that people say started problems under Clinton was the Gramm-Leach-Bliley bill that was co-authored by McCain’s economic advisor Phil Gramm and passed by a veto proof majority of a Republican controlled congress in 1999, including McCain’s vote for it.
There is no way around the fact that Republican policies, with John McCain’s full support, are the cause of the mess we have today.
57. Jean | 10.07.08
The single most impression Mc Cain gives to me, is of a man who should not be walking into the White House, but into a rest home. He looks unfortunately to be either washed-up or burnt out and Palin’s world view is seriously limited; it gives people who live in other parts of the world like myself a profound sense of insecurity. Have not all of us already, had too much over dosing on fundamentalist ideology - she dresses it up as true patriotism which mustn’t be questioned which is highly dangerous. I can only hope that America does the right thing this time!
58. Wow | 10.07.08
Just WOW.
Some of you people are filled with so much hate and are so convinced that yours is the only “right” opinion, that it amazes me.
This election should ultimately be decided by the voters that have no attachment to a certain party.
IMHO there is so much hatred between the “blues” and the “reds” that there is no sense of objectivity.
I really think that it might be best for America if only those who had never voted a straight ticket were allowed to vote.
59. Ed | 10.07.08
It is not a personal attack to point out that Obama is not qualified!
I just don’t understand why so many people believe that a man like Obama can save America. He does not have experiences, does not have credits, even can not prove that he loves America! McCain has the experiences, has the credits, and has the proof!
How can we just believe what Obama is promising and not to verify what he has accomplished?
60. DoTheMath | 10.07.08
When McCain lobs one of his baseless smears at Obama, Obama should ask the audience if that’s what they want to talk about. If they do, fine, he can provide the facts that he has already provided more than once in response to those smears. Or maybe to keep from putting the audience on the spot, he could briefly respond and then suggest that he could go on unless the American people have more important issues they would prefer to discuss.
The ABC ambush during the primaries already hammered the Ayers issue into the ground. They were on a board. There was a campaign event in his house. Big deal. He’s a university professor for crying out loud. Is everyone who took one of his classes or sat in a faculty meeting with him “palling around with terrorists?”
And the Wright video has been done to death. How many times can we watch the same few minutes of preaching? Clearly he said one or two other things in the past twenty years or we’d have a heck of a lot more footage to watch. Furthermore, there’s no evidence Obama agrees with the objectionable rhetoric. In fact, there’s every indication that he does not.
Maybe this town hall meeting will turn into a referendum on the politics of distraction and division. Hey, I can hope, can’t I?
61. Richard Moby | 10.07.08
One of the things that most bothers me about Barack Obama is that for 20 years he did absolutely nothing about challenging the views of his minister… until he became a candidate. He did not dispute the vile words of an America-hater. He remained in the church and… by the lack of any action whatsoever, in effect supported those views. I have always believed that if you something that is wrong, you do something about it. Obama did not. And that is how he will govern, if elected. It is not just wrong… it is downright frightening.
Wake up, America! This is the man you want for President?
Well, we’ll see. We will for sure get whom we deserve.
62. Larkin Mead | 10.07.08
A funny thing happened on the way to the voting booth on November 4, 2008! The electorate voted for the most “Conservative” candidate for President of the United States in the history of America. What s stroke of genius! If one is to win the presidency, he/she must portray him or herself as being a “Populist”. How do I attract liberals, minorities, middle class working Americans, educators and the youth to vote for me? Baraack Hussein Obama and his campaign staff are about to pull off the greatest scam in political history.
One only need to look back at the 1960 campaign to understand what I am saying. John F. Kennedy, Democrat was viewed by at least 50% of Americans to be too liberal and he was a Catholic. We could not be dictated to by Rome and have a president who was theocratic in his approach to leading America. Well, the short of it is, Kennedy won by only 100,000 popular votes and went onto become an extremely fiscal conservative president and no liberal agenda was passed by the Congress during his presidency. Of course, Lyndon Johnson changed all that after Kennedy’s assasination with his “Great Society”! But, Kennedy needed Johnson on the ticket for the southern vote.
Now, assuming that Barack Hussein Obama’s character has been somewhat influenced by his early childhood introduction to Islamic Law and of course the 20 years he spent in the African theology with Dr. Jeremiah Wright’s brand of Christianity, it should be evident to anyone that Obama has strong conservative views; more conservative then Senator John McCain. Under Islamic Law, much of what conservatives abhor; same sex marriage, homosexuality, abortion and social welfare programs are the work of the devil and these are issues that liberals embrace. In fact, in the African American theology, homosexuality, same sex marriage and abortion are not accepted by their religion.
So, the Obama campaign brilliantly established that the reason Barack Hussein Obama would not select Hillary Clinton as his running mate was because of their “bitter campaign” and because Obama did not want to have continuous disagreements over domestic and foreign policy with Hillary and Bill is all bunk! Assuming that Barack Obama still respects Islamic Law and African theology, women do not hold the same presence as do men.
Socialized medicine, (universal health care)! Forget about it! There will be a watered-down version through a negotiated piece of legislation. Free college educations and all the other liberal carrots that have been thrown out by Obama just won’t happen. Speaker of the House, Nancy Pelosi, a staunch Obama supporter and Teddy Kennedy, the Liberal Lion; forget about it. Neither will have significan role in the next Congress - guaranteed.
So, when we all wake up on the morning of November 5, whether Obama or McCain is the President-elect, one thing is for certain. It will be a win-win day for the Conservatives and we can all thank the liberals for being duped by the Barack Hussein Obama campaign.
A stroke of genius!
63. Concerned | 10.07.08
Nice job, Moses.
Don’t forget that Obama wrote his thesis on Soviet Nuclear Disarmerment, graduated Magna *** Laude from Harvard Law, was the president of the Harvard Law Review, taught and practiced constitutional law for 10 years, sponsored 70 bills and co-sponsored over 400 bills.
Accomplished nothing? There is none so blind as he who will not see.
64. Bull Flop | 10.07.08
10. Da Truth | 10.07.08
I saw a report somewhere that the people who think O’bama is Qualified, are the same ones who though OJ was innocent.
I saw a report somewhere (either that or I just made it up, same thing) that people who think the above is relevant to anything are less likely to have forks in their family tree…
65. Adam | 10.07.08
To #32: Well, one thing Obama has accomplished is becoming the Democratic nominee for President of the United States. I’d put that right at the top of the resume.
66. Adam | 10.07.08
To “Ed” #39
1) If people are looking for someone (ANYONE) to, in your words, “save America,” it is doomed already.
2) No can PROVE they love America.
What is this? The 5th grade?
67. hottopics | 10.07.08
http://firstread.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2008/10/07/1504426.aspx?CommentPosted=true#commentmessage
68. lonecrone | 10.07.08
Is anybody taking bets on how long it will take McCain to use the POW trump card? We know he’ll use it, but not when. He usually pulls it out at the end. Anyone?
69. Chris | 10.07.08
I am so happy McCain has finally stepped up and officially called Obama a liar. That is exactly what he is and I have no doubt McCain will prove it tonight. McCain has by far the most experience to lead our country. So what if Palin hasn’t locked herself in a room to learn the text book answers to Supreme court cases. She is definitely for the people and has done a great job as the Governor of Alaska. If you want higher taxes and more of a mess vote Democrat. If you want to lower taxes and have a President who is by far the most qualified vote Republican.
70. pwlcapricorn1 | 10.07.08
I don’t see where the Keating 5 is a disadvantage for McCain considering he was cleared of all allegations. Obama tries to hide the truth of his past and when people find out about his associations he tries to discredit them or act like he has no idea what you are talking about. Be aware of the people you surround yourself with. The friends you have make who you are.
_________________________________________________________
McBush was not cleared of wrong doing. He was slapped in the face and called a cheat and a lier by all of the Senate. He had to pay back all the bribe money and pay back all the money given to him that paided for his vacations with the babysitter. Get your facts staight.
71. BC | 10.07.08
“Professional economists give us their views of the candidates’ economic plans”
The Economist sent questionnaires to over 600 economists asking their opinion of both McCain’s and Obama’s economic policies as stated to date; 140+ responded.
http://www.economist.com/world/unitedstates/displaystory.cfm?story_id=12342127
The next time someone brings up taxes and the economy as the reason to support McCain, point them at this and ask them for a reaction.
72. Black Cat | 10.07.08
DEMAND a VOTING NETWORK so that you can vote on REAL issues, NOT on what parasite gets to such your blood. Current people in power will NOT allow citizens to vote on issues since they are making huge profits off the statuesque. People MUST demand change by NOT voting in elections, thereby forcing the government to let citizens vote on issues that the current government WILL NEVER allow. Such as:
-Financially independent government (NO TAXES)
-Laws (no politicians)
-Crime (no lawyers & judges)
-Foreign Policy (no diplomats)
-Who owns non-renewable resources (the most greedy or everyone)
-Copyright laws
-Environment protection
-Government Income
-Government Spending
-Home mortgages
-Honest Government
-Less paper work
-One government (no national, state, county, and city – just the voting network)
-Standards
-Unemployment
-War (sending soldiers or bringing them home)
-Get paid for reading SPAM & JUNK mail
73. dcorbi | 10.07.08
It really is simple. Obama is a socialist. We should elect him and get in line with Europe. We should tax the wealthy and give it to the people who have not had the opportunity to enrich themselves through education or inspiration. Socialism NOW. say it with me. SOCIALISM NOW! OBAMA NOW! SOCIALISM NOW! Its a chant we can all get behind. Line up!
75. pinko commy for Obama | 10.07.08
Right. Rolling Stone is an impartial source for non objective political perspectives. what a fool whoever said that above. They right straight from the liberal handbook.
76. Marty | 10.07.08
So much liberal white guilt over black history . . . so much that liberals are eager to elect this purveyor of socialism to the highest office in the land. Dumbest group since the original O.J. Simpson jury!
77. Jeffersonian | 10.07.08
This debate will go down as an attempt to hide the issues and focus instead on the name-calling and fit-throwing. Modern debates are about “television.” That small electric device responsible for entertainment. When a candidate attempts to actually debate the 10-second attention span of the country gets bored and tunes out until someone raises their voice or an audience member goes “ooooooh.”
Everyone has associated with someone that wasn’t a great person in their life - so what? How many people knew the priests in Boston that molested children? Are all those people now of poor quality due to their associate with a Child Molester? How about people that attended those churches and confessed to those priests, are they now all gutter-running rats because a Child Molester was their “spiritual leader?” No, they aren’t. And that is what people need to remember. Sure, some people knew bullies in school when they were younger, but do they condone the actions of those people now - hopefully they don’t.
And yes, people make mistakes - and hopefully they learn from them. Without mistakes, you can’t fully evaluate your character. Its not the mistake that should be the focus, but the recovery from the mistake and what was done to undo the mistake that should be measured.
That all aside, there is a point that needs to be addressed, one of utmost importance. That is the chants of “Kill Obama” at Sarah Palin’s rallies. No person in their right mind should be tolerating chants for the death of a person - ANY PERSON. John McCain needs to make a point of this tonight and “learn from his mistakes” by reigning in Palin and apologizing for the mistakes of his cohort.
And as it was mentioned in the first 10 comments - we need to get back to the Constitution. We need to return to a separation of powers (its a long shot - but the end of the bicameral system would be great too). The Supreme Court hasn’t been stacked this heavily since FDR.
78. Character Counts1 | 10.07.08
When John McCain started out he was a respected public figure. Then came the 2008 campaign and John McCain appeared unable to articulate a coherent and compelling message justifying his candidacy. “Straight-talk” John McCain selected Sarah Palin the Alaskan female version of Goober Pyle and told us that she was qualified to be Vice President of the United States. Really, John? We have seen John McCain for who he really is. Does it matter how well he does in the debate? Do we really want old John McCain and his Sarah in the White House and in various undisclosed locations?
80. ScientificMan | 10.07.08
I believe in a strong military and national defense: I am pro business: I am fiscally conservative: I have liberal social values.
Let’s follow the money .
In the last eight years the National Debt has doubled from $5.5 trillion to $11 trillion. That’s a phenomenal increase for an economy only valued at $13 trillion. Assuming we don’t want runaway inflation; there are only two ways of dealing with this debt–paying it off or borrowing more. How does that work for your family? You’re in debt; what are your options? Pay it down by spending less (the deficit>$400billion this year and >$440 billion next; so, no–we’re not spending less). Pay it down by increasing your income (for the commomonwealth that’s higher taxes). Or you can borrow more to keep the lifestyle. Republicans want to keep borrowing. It doesn’t work for your family and it doesn’t work for our nation. We are living way beyond our means. The Republicans are very, very liberal spenders of public monies. Ultra liberal. So don’t tell us how you are against raising taxes–this ultra liberal spending amounts to leaving our children an impossibly large tax burden to pay. ‘The Democrats are tax and spend’, they say: the only thing worse is the ‘borrow and spend’ Republicans.
Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac spent $180 million on lobbying and $20 million on direct campaign contributions over the last ten years. What do we get from this–privatized profits socialized losses.
The Republicans have weakened our military by squandering trillions that will be needed for our future national defense.
The Republicans have to be thoroughly defeated for mismanaging the country.
Can the Democrats fix it? Wishful thinking; it is very broken. There are systemic problems. Transparent lobbying–every email/letter/phone call is published. Blind trust campaign financing–contribute as much as you like; but the candidates don’t know where it comes from. ‘The price of liberty is eternal vigilance.’ For $700B we should get campaign finance and lobbying reform–OR IT WILL HAPPEN AGAIN. We were united after 9/11 and soon Republicans and Democrats and all Americans will be financially broke.
The day of reckoning is nigh– the next trillion we spend better be put to very good use.
82. Jsac | 10.07.08
Ace McCain had three plan crashes before he went to Veitnam. Then got shot down in Veitnam by flying too low and not paying attention on a bombing mission. Pilot error and bad dicisions.
If he stayed behind with his troops and had the option to leave the POW camp why did he and the SOB (son of Bush) cut so many of the vet benifits in the last eight years.
I am a Nam Vet and I have brothers that served also. After more than 200 trips to the vets hospital I have seen benifit cuts over the years. Talk to the vets and they will all tell of the struggles they are having. After serving in a war zone and surviving many vets come home and struggle the rest thier lives because of benefit cuts and hospital closures. They sent us to war then threw us to the dogs when we came home.
The world cannot afford four more years of this which is about how long McOld would last. The poor old guy couldn’t make a second term.
He is shooting himself in the foot with his smear fear POLITRICKS and he forgets that the more he slings mud at Obbama the more unpopular he presents himself as a presidential candidate. If he could only remember to be positive he could change many voters minds but they don’t call him McSame for nothing. Just can’t remember to change. My grandfather started repeting himself at 70 he just could remember he had said tha same thing five minutes ago. McSame?
McSame and Failing Palin are doing a good job of loosing this election without any help from Obama. Keep lying and using fear smear and by November Obama will win by a landslide.
83. mark spowage | 10.07.08
America needs a fundamental CHARTER to clarify absolute value.
Why are we here ? Where must we go ?
What is the universl charter of faith ? Upon a universal charter, the nation
can move forward and to embrace everything withIN the context of the charter.
–>
This is the declaration of the ORIGINAL INTENTION
humanity was created to achieve. This is to serve as a
formal DECLARATION OF GOD to the world.
1. The world of war, suffering, crime, and evil was
NOT THE ORIGINAL INTENTION for humanity.
2. The ORIGINAL INTENTION for humanity was
that each person unite with an eternal partner in
marriage as the ORIGINAL BIRTHRIGHT for a
man and a woman to become one, for humanity to
emerge as ONE FAMILY under GOD (the creator of
the universe and mankind). copyright universalcharter.org <–
84. Melissa | 10.08.08
Did you see the end of the debate today McCain did not shake Obama’s hand. He tapped Obama on the shoulder, Obama turned to shake his hand and McCain turned away! Obama then politely turned to Cindy and shook her hand. Unbelievable! McCain acts like he is still in middle school, grow up McCain stop being a cry-baby …
85. Da Truth | 10.09.08
I saw a report somewhere that the people who think O’bama (Yo mama) is Qualified, are the same ones who though OJ was innocent.
——————————-
If the comment did not have such a strong thread of truth running through it, then why did ‘SO’ many of you feel such a need to respond.
You give yourself away ‘SO’ throughally and completely.
Check Mate!!
Trackbacks/Pingbacks
1. Political Blog Posts» Blog Archive » Axelrod Says Obama Will Counterpunch if McCain Raises Ayres | 10.07.08
Leave a Comment
We do not publish all comments, and we do not publish comments immediately. The comments feature is a forum to discuss the ideas in our stories. Constructive debate - even pointed disagreement - is welcome, but personal attacks on other commenters are not, and will not be published.
Tip: Do not write a novel. Keep it short. We will not publish lengthy comments. Come up with your own statements. This is not a place to cut and paste an email you received. If we recognize it as such, we won't post it.
Please do not post any comments that are commercial in nature or that violate copyrights.
Finally, we will not publish any comments that we regard as obscene, defamatory, or intended to incite violence.
Jimmy Orr has worked in politics for the majority of his professional career working for two U.S. Senators, two Governors and one President. Most recently, Orr served as White House Spokesman and Internet Director for President George W. Bush and Special Advisor to Governor Schwarzenegger for Internet Communications.
David Cook is Washington bureau chief of The Christian Science Monitor and host of the Monitor's newsmaker breakfasts. He was the Monitor's editor from 1994 to 2001. Cook is a graduate of Principia College, served in the U.S. Army, was a Bagehot Fellow at Columbia University, and is a member of the Gridiron Club, Washington's oldest journalistic organization.
1. Shripathi Kamath | 10.07.08
“Take on Keating 5 and turn it on Obama.”
You must be someone who believes that a disadvantage can be changed into an advantage by simply owning it.
Wonder why defense attorneys do not use that tact when the evidence points against their client.
“Members of the Jury, my client did steal that car, but he now owns it, and therefore you must find him not guilty because he has often driven old ladies to the hospital when they needed a ride”