Presidential contenders Barack Obama (l.) and John McCain ended their second debate Tuesday in Nashville, Tenn. (Rick Wilking/Reuters)
Obama-McCain debate: jabs, but no knockout
Economic anxiety overshadows Tuesday's matchup; McCain offers plan for Treasury to buy, renegotiate terms of 'bad home loan mortgages.'
By Linda Feldmann | Staff writer/ October 8, 2008 edition
Reporter Linda Feldmann discusses the candidates' styles in the second presidential debate Tuesday night.
Reporter Linda Feldmann
Washington
John McCain went into Tuesday night’s debate with Barack Obama with a clear game plan: Go after the Democratic presidential nominee whenever possible, but not too harshly.
For the most part, the Republican nominee carried that out. Even in his opening thank yous, Senator McCain got in a little jab at Senator Obama, saying “it’s good to be with you at a town hall meeting.” The pointed reference to the format brought back memories of McCain’s proposal to hold 10 town hall meetings with Obama around the country, an idea that Obama rejected, to McCain’s frustration.
The town hall format is McCain’s favorite, because it allows him to engage in a back and forth with voters. But the strict time constraints in Tuesday’s event prevented any sort of free-wheeling debate. Ultimately, the two candidates went back and forth without any knockout punches or gaffes, and so there appeared to be no obvious winner.
Insta-polls of uncommitted voters by CNN and CBS both gave the duel to Obama. But even without polls to lean on, it was clear that by the end of the evening the trajectory of the campaign had not changed. So for McCain, now the clear underdog after more than three weeks of devastating economic news that has put his party on the defensive, the debate was in effect a loss.
Going into the debate with an expectation that momentum might change is probably a mistake, says Byron Shafer, political science chair at the University of Wisconsin, Madison.
“This has become a campaign in which, in some sense, major external events are driving the train,” says Mr. Shafer. “If you say to McCain, ‘Go to that debate and do something outrageously better than Obama so everyone forgets the credit markets seizing up,’ you’re being unreasonable.”
The first half of the debate was dominated by the nation’s economic turmoil, and voter anxiety came through in the questions. Many of the questions came from members of the audience of 80 uncommitted voters; others came via e-mail from voters outside of Nashville, where the debate was held.
In response to the first question, which asked what kind of bailout the candidates would propose for older citizens and workers who have lost their incomes, both candidates seized the opportunity to show they feel voters’ pain.
“I think everybody knows now we are in the worst financial crisis since the Great Depression,” Obama replied. “And a lot of you I think are worried about your jobs, your pensions, your retirement accounts, your ability to send your child or your grandchild to college.”
Then Obama went after McCain, calling the current financial straits “a final verdict on the failed economic policies of the last eight years, strongly promoted by President Bush and supported by Senator McCain….”
McCain began his response with his own “I feel your pain” rhetoric: “You go to the heart of America’s worries tonight,” he said, complimenting the audience member for his question, as McCain did for just about every question he took. “Americans are angry, they’re upset, and they’re a little fearful. It’s our job to fix the problem.”
McCain then put forth some proposals – including a new one that immediately had conservatives scratching their heads. He spoke of energy independence, the need to keep taxes low, the need to cut government spending, and then the new proposal: “I would order the secretary of the Treasury to immediately buy up the bad home loan mortgages in America and renegotiate at the new value of those homes.”
McCain said that would allow people to make payments and stay in their homes. He acknowledged that such a plan would be expensive, but added that “until we stabilize home values in America, we’re never going to start turning around and creating jobs and fixing our economy.”
McCain criticized Obama for backing special projects known as earmarks, such as a $3 million projector for a planetarium in Chicago. He also tied Obama to the subprime mortgage crisis, via his “cronies” and friends.
Perhaps McCain’s sharpest attack on Obama came in his discussion of energy legislation that “was loaded down with goodies, billions for the oil companies.”
“You know who voted for it? You might never know. That one,” he said, pointing dismissively at Obama. This kind of impersonal dig was unusual in a presidential debate, especially for one between two senators, who normally address one another with particular decorum.
Still, for all the jabs during the evening – and Obama gave as good as he got – Obama seemed almost preternaturally calm. It may be that he knew his assignment was to make no mistakes, and that by maintaining a cool composure he would be less likely to say something he would regret.
“In terms of style, Obama seemed more relaxed tonight than in the last debate,” says Jennifer Reem, a communication expert at Nova Southeastern University in Ft. Lauderdale, Fla. “He did a good job of not condescending to the audience. He addressed the entire audience, making sure to turn around and face each portion of the audience during his answers.”
Comments
2. Bill Butera | 10.08.08
I wanted to hear more on how they were going to fix the problems in America today, what I didn’t want to hear was all the bashing on each other and their parties. We know they have differences, I wanted to know how they are going to fix our economy.
3. jeff | 10.08.08
Would have voted for Sen McCain in 2000. Hated the dirty, nasty campaign run by GW. Sen McCain now say’s “Washington changed us”. He is right - he has become the the guy who slandered the heck out of him - GW, runing a similair campaign. Being a slander machine and having good character tend not to go together.
4. dave | 10.08.08
I honestly worry about an October surprise. Just like the Neocon strategy needed a new Pearl Harbor to implement their colonial agenda and co-incidentily got it with September 11. While the Bush family had been buying up defense contractors seemingly predicting this “war on terrorism”. The only two things that give McCain a chance to continue their agenda would be a terrorist attack or a war breaking out (probably with Iran) The American people do not think human beings are capable of that type of manipulation but look how we went to war in Iraq. It is just a coincidence that Exxon Mobile BP etc had been left out of Iraqi oil profits and one of the first things we tried to accomplish in Iraq was to void the France China Russia deal and are still trying to pressure Iraq to give us the new deal.If we or Isreal invade or attack Iran before the election the American people are dumb enough to switch to McCain, who like Bush have increased the power of the so called terrorists (They were freedom fighters when we created them to fight Russia for invading the Middle East but when they treat our invasions the same they became terrorists)and given them many recruits.
5. Dean | 10.08.08
McCain showed his ignorance and bigotry by referromg tp Senator Obama as “that one”. That is exactly the same ignorance and bigotry he would show towards foreign leaders if, God forbid, he were to get elected president. It is people like McCain and Bush why we are held in such low regard by people across the world.
6. JOSEPH | 10.08.08
I guess that I was the only one that could repeat Obama’s words with him. He mimicked the first debate almost word for word. I would like to see one of you computer people overlay the second debate over the first and line up the beginning of the paragraphs, and watch the words repeat.
i was appauled that i was watching a guy that wants to be president, ane all he could do was repeat the first debate. Maybe that was all that he had memorised at this time. Very concerned about his ability to govern.
Thanks, McCain for bringing some new data to the debate, otherwise I would have wasted all of my evening.
I wanted some information about Obama’s friendship with a terrorist/bomber. Guess I will have to rely on Sarah palin to give the latest news. Where are you news media. Please report this very scary story which by rumor has Obama and Aires on a “babysitting” level. Thats pretty close.
Thanks Sarah Palin for giving us the truth, it appears that you are the only one that can tell the truth.
JJSJR
7. Michael Kennedy | 10.08.08
If memory serves me correctly, this is the exact same headline somebody used for the last debate. I am always amused by people who are looking for a “winner” in these debates. Isn’t it a matter of who you personally agree with?
8. Tim | 10.08.08
From my point-of-view, Obama was the winner in both style and substance. McCain is certainly turning nastier but seems to have little impact on Obama. However, Obama is not having a clearly decisive affect. Thank heavens it will all be over soon! It is going to be interesting to see if the winner can pull us out of this awful economic mess we’re in right now.
9. Johnson | 10.08.08
You’re right in that this debate was not charged with excitement. As a matter of fact, it became near boring with 30 minutes to go, however, McCain repeatedly came closest to actually answering the questions and stating his plans and policies. Obama nearly always provided no direct answers to the questions. As a remaining undecided voter, I have to say I believe McCain did the better job this debate. At least I feel I know more about his plans and beliefs. Obama didn’t tell me anything specific or new – and he had plenty of chances.
10. Trace Dibble | 10.08.08
Did anyone keep count of the absurd number of times both guys used the terms “fundamental,” or “fundamentally?”
McCain referred not once, but twice to an earmark purchase of an overhead projector. Even not knowing the purpose of it, I’d still imagine it a more proper use of taxpayer money than Palin’s tanning bed.
11. Tim | 10.08.08
From my understanding the authority for the Secretary of the Treasury to buy up home loans was part of the bailout package and not something McCain came up with himself.
12. kell. | 10.08.08
Both Obama and McCain say they will do all these grate things for the economy now. But will they really do it when they are in office. That is a question I think people should think about more.
13. Derrick | 10.08.08
Obama never said he had a plan to fix Social Security. How is his trickle effect ever going to help retirees? Obama says that it will never work using McCain’s plan to give everyone a tax reduction. Obama did say he was going to force medical insurance on those that have religious beliefs. What if I don’t want insurance? Do I get punished with a fine? I don’t like Obama’s war monger statements that he wants to invade Pakistan to chase Osama down. What about capturing Osama? Obama only wants to kill him.
14. WVHayes | 10.08.08
While Obama is very gifted in his rhetoric, he still does not emit a sense of trust in what he is saying. Teaching for 40 years has trained me to evaluate what someone is saying and whether it is truthful. I still say that leadership by example is a better choice. McCain really does not care who works with him to solve problems of our nation. Has anyone asked why Obama feels that he has to follow the Black Causus with all of his votes.
I pray that voters wake up before we have an educational system that youths are misdirected.
15. Jon | 10.08.08
The condescension by McCain toward a fellow Senator “that one” and to the audience “my friends” was a sorry continuation from the first debate, where McCain never once even looked at Obama, even when shaking hands with him. While McCain spoke during last night’s town hall, Obama respectfully paid attention and listened. While Obama spoke, McCain either wandered aimlessly in the background or scribbled notes, and again, never looked at Obama. That lack of civility is shameful.
16. Perk | 10.08.08
Although I think J.Mcain is a decent man who truly believes his policies will work I for one think they are a disaster. His continuation of the Bush 300 billion tax break for the top 5 % of people is ridiculous. His $5000 tax credit on insurance wouldn’t allow me to buy a policy to cover a sprained ankle. How may cars, houses, yacht’s does one person need ? While the typical family struggles to put food on the table. The trickle down theory of the past eight years has done nothing for the average American. The money trickels overseas with the rich who want higher returns on their money. Job’s are being lost, the defecit is going out of control, families are stressed from financial pressures etc. It’s time to change hopefully for the better with Obama.
17. Carol Salassa | 10.08.08
I think the media is crazy to say Obama won. I’m now voting for McCain after this debate.
Obama came off as a fraud. example: When MCCain FACES Obama and accuses him of Freddie/Fannie cronyism, Obama BOWS DOWN - a sign of guilt. When Obama’s turn to address the accusation, Obama deflects to minimize the situration to his audience. This small section, clearly indicates to me that Obama was guilty of the Freddie/Fannie fiasco. If almost a trillion dollars is the result, Obama and his cronies definitely should go to jail and the White House should be the last place they should aspire to be housed in. The Federa prision is probably where he’ll wind up in.
18. Alice | 10.08.08
I supported McCain in 2000, but he is no longer the leader I once thought he was. McCain wants to be President, but has yet to show a single ounce of graciousness or integrity. His reference to Obama as “that one” was appalling. McCain and Palin have no class — they are an embarrassment to this country.
19. Jen C. | 10.08.08
This country needs to return to real presidential debates, no moderated questions between all the presidential candidates. The debates, as they now stand, are moderated commercials for the Two Party System, run by their own private corporation called the Comission on Presidential Debates, which isn’t non-partisan, but bi-partisan. With representatives from only the Democratic and Republican parties, it decides to set an unreasonable bar for third party and independent candidates. This is a mechanism to prevent not only competition, but tough questions and other viewpoints. What’s worse, this year for the first time, they have refused to release the contract of that representatives of the two parties determined in private. This is an outrage. Debates in a democracy shouldn’t operate using secret meetings and partisans colluding to squash competition. This is undermining our democracy, especially as we face this financial crisis. Every American should be concerned and needs to contact the Commission on Presidenital Debates, the three major networks, Obama and McCain and vociferoulsy demand an end to this charade. Insist on actual, real debates that include all 6 presidential candidates, as suggested by Ron Paul. Visit both http://www.opendebates.org and http://www.thirdpartyticket.com for more info.
20. Twan | 10.08.08
Obama was swift and light on his feet. McCain seems stagnant. If I were the McCain corner, I would tell him to lay off the smear campaign and propose BIG ideas. He still has a chance to change the polls. By trying to tear Obama down he seems desparate and out of shape. Styles win fights. McCain is talented but his campaign strategey seems to be beneath him. McCain is not a dirty GUY…. But at this point he seems Dirty…..
21. George | 10.08.08
You have a GREAT career in Politics to come. Don’t be sullied by cheap Campaign TATICS. I feel like your BEING USED… BE a Graceful Woman and Politican…..
OBAMA and Palin are of the same breed just on the opposite sides of the fence.
THE UNBEATABLE ticket OBAMA/PALIN…
They would be like Sonny and Cher
22. John Baehrend | 10.08.08
McCain was at his best last night, in a forum of his choosing. But his best was not good enough to bring more independents to his side. Obama was not at his inspirational best, but that may be precisely right for this moment in time. He did express a reassuringly calm thoughtfulness. (He will respect and talk to his enemies–even political ones.)Unfortunately, McCain’s disdain for Obama, the person, was tangible. Obama was able to attack McCain’s policies and record without attacking the man. The American people desperately need a leader they can trust. In today climate of economic disarray, the answer to each individual voter’s question, “Who can I trust?” is more important than ever.
23. Cindy | 10.08.08
As an independent, who searches for objective reporting, I appreciate your fair assessment and lack of inflammatory commentary when covering the debates. I agree with most of your article on Debate #2. I believe Obama was more presidential because of his “cool composure” and diplomacy. He looked AT McCain with interest when McCain was speaking and, as you pointed out, talked TO and not DOWN to the people in the audience. McCain, on the other hand, kept addressing the audience as “My friends,” which didn’t ring sincere. He had one moment, however, when he was sincere and this was when he shook hands with a fellow serviceman. But being presidential goes beyond loving your friends, he or she must be true to our interests but also diplomatic when addressing “enemies.” I disagree with your assessment that there were no gaffes. McCain’s condenscending “That One,” when referring to Obama, WAS a gaffe and an important one because it shows an underlying disrespect and hostility toward someone who opposes him. How would a world leader react to such treatment? The gaffe clearly illustrates a lack of diplomacy and patience. In addition, I sensed McCain’s tension not only in his speech but in his body language–his smiles appeared forced, his attempts at humor fell flat and I was uncomfortable with him. Since I value diplomacy and composure in a president, I believe Obama was the winner in this debate.
24. Tammie | 10.08.08
When McCain called Obama “THIS ONE”. His Racism accidentally slipped out. Racism IS hard to hide. He’s sounding really SCARED now!
RACISM IS FEAR!
25. Scotty | 10.08.08
I’b biased, for sure, but McCain’s disoriented shuffling around the floor last night looked like a scene from a retirement home
Sorry John, the White House is *not* some sort of deluxe retirement home: The previous guy tried that one already 
26. jim page | 10.08.08
Dear Senator McCain!
America is hurting. We are hurting very badly. After 8 years of Bush mismanagement supported 90% by you which got us where we are, now you tell Obama and us you have bad news for us,” the economy is pretty bad”. No kidding. You just found that out? The maverick did see or know all along that what he was supporting was going to lead us to nowhere but a disaster. A few days ago you was emphatic, declaring the fundamentals of the downwards spiraling and our failed economy were sound. Your phony definition of the fundamentals, meaning the American work force is more than stupid. You forget our economy is failing while the American worker remains hard working. His reward for being the hardest worker in the world is losing his job, losing his house; going broke and can’t even buy food or gas. Some are even committing suicide as we speak. Now John, in yesterday’s debate you say you are going to solve our problems. You can’t. With 9 houses and 13 cars and a plane, you don’t understand how it feels not to have a home or a job, not to have insurance, buy food or pay your bills. How dishonest is it for you to say “I feel your pain” John, you don’t. Thanks for trying. We are now wiser to let these phony tricks, lies, divisiveness and hate baiting to blind us. We are hurting pretty bad .The economy and not race hatred is killing us. We need a fresh, young leader with smart and workable ideas and plans to get us out of this mess you and Bush have gotten us into .We have found such a leader, President OBAMA!
27. Billye Porter | 10.08.08
Nice job of reporting. Keep it up.
I prefer the second picture of Senator McCain and Obama.
“Truth is always the victor”
“Right wins the right-of-way”
28. eros 4 the dems | 10.08.08
wow .. did anyone here get creeped out watching McC3-po shuffling around trying act adorable during this debate ?
life jackets are available for those who have clearly detached themselves from that sinking republican boat to nowhere !!!
29. jim page | 10.08.08
Dear Senator McCain!
America is hurting. We are hurting very badly. After 8 years of Bush mismanagement supported 90% by you which got us where we are, now you tell Obama and us you have bad news for us,” the economy is pretty bad”. No kidding. You just found that out? The maverick did see or know all along that what he was supporting was going to lead us to nowhere but a disaster. A few days ago you was emphatic, declaring the fundamentals of the downwards spiraling and our failed economy were sound. Your phony definition of the fundamentals, meaning the American work force is more than stupid. You forget our economy is failing while the American worker remains hard working. His reward for being the hardest worker in the world is losing his job, losing his house; going broke and can’t even buy food or gas. Some are even committing suicide as we speak. Now John, in yesterday’s debate you say you are going to solve our problems. You can’t. With 9 houses and 13 cars and a plane, you don’t understand how it feels not to have a home or a job, not to have insurance, buy food or pay your bills. How dishonest is it for you to say “I feel your pain” John, you don’t. Thanks for trying. We are now wiser to let these phony tricks, lies, divisiveness and hate baiting to blind us. We are hurting pretty bad .The economy and not race hatred is killing us. We need a fresh, young leader with smart and workable ideas and plans to get us out of this mess you and Bush have gotten us into .We have found such a leader, President OBAMA!
30. Vitaly | 10.08.08
I don’t like framing of the discussion of the debate from a perspective of a boxing match. It should be more of, you either agree or not with a candidate. And to say that there is no clear winner is divisive. Because, there is a very obvious line of distinction between the two candidates.
31. dave | 10.08.08
I don’t think “that one” or “this one” was a gaffe or racist, though it was obvious in the last debate that Obama forgot McCain’s name at one point. The point is even though McCain lost this debate he was just trying to form a conspiratal bond with the audience. It was like it was “just us talking” It was like saying to the audience “between me and you can you believe this guy? I thought it was an attempt at being folksy like they have Palin doing. It may have failed but i believe he was on script.
32. Paddy Rao | 10.08.08
You know until recently I was sure I would vote for Obama. Then the Democratic party said they would help reassess home mortgages for folks foreclosing on homes. Then I was certain I would not vote for the Dems, because as much there was corporate greed on Wall Street, I believe these folks have been greedy as well when they bought homes way beyond their means.
I have a home that was grossly overvalued (albeit well within my financial budget) because of these homeowners, and now is grossly undervalued again because of these miserable homeowners. To top it all, the city still values my home more than what I paid for it.
Now John McCain is saying the same thing? I mean is he a Republican or a Democrat, or will he just say whatever he must to try and win?
We know the Dems are on the left, and will try to make it look like the homeowners are not to blame at all. But where exactly is John McCain? This is a flip-flop machine we are talking about here…
33. erik | 10.08.08
Whoever is going to vote for McCain and Palin at this point really needs a reality check? I can also assume that you voted for George Bush so keep up that genius method-thought process. THANKS ITS DESTROYING AMERICA, so to say your patriots, well I would just say stubborn sheep.
34. Roz Donald | 10.08.08
My friends, I simply ask you to consider these things as you contemplate your decisions. John McCain proposes to replace your curent health insurance with tax credits, $2,500 for individuals and $5, 000 for families to purchase alternative health insurance. I don’t know about you, but where I live, I can’t begin to buy insurance for my family for $5,000. As it relates to women, he doesn’t believe in equal pay for men and women. Please, tell me how do women feel about that? The reason Obama is perceived to win these debates is because even though he hasn’t outlined all of his proposals, he has outlined some in detail. McCain is not. McCain tells us that Social Security as it is now, will be less accessible for our children and grandchildren under his plan. For me that’s scary. And for his condescending tone, that’s totally unacceptable to a fellow senator. Give me your view. Thanks.
35. S. Anne | 10.08.08
We’ve now seen and heard enough from Senator John McCain to come to this conclustion: his bigotry and racism is truly a part of his being. It shows in his condescending and disrespectful attitude toward Senator Obama. Senator McCain’s words “that one” to describe his opponent or his use of “gooks” when he talks of Asians, gives us insight to the real candidate. His choice of Sara Palin also demonstrates his admiration for the hateful discourse she has been known for and that she continues to spew. Senator McCain is not the person we should have as the leader of this great, diverse country.
36. I’m J-SixPack Too | 10.08.08
In considering one for the presidency, style and decorum do, indeed, count. Compusure and self control matter. Tact and diplomacy have worth. Treating others with dignity and respect, even as he disagrees with them, is a *must*.
One candidate personified these traits last night, and one of them did not. No names needed, as you all know very well which was which last night. Or, at least you should.
37. Bonnie B. | 10.08.08
Although I didn’t think the words from Senator McCain, “that one”, were racist…they were rude and disrespectful!! They might have passed if McCain had referred to himself as “this one”. Further, I could not believe how Senator McCain kept making distracting movements by fidgetting with his papers, writing on his tablet very vigorously and flopping the papers around and then walking around the room during Senator Obama’s allotted time to comment. He seems ignorant of social graces. Senator Obama on the other hand was the consummate gentleman. All other issues aside, I want a President to represent the American people who knows how to treat others. Coming into the debate I was undecided. I am no longer.
38. Jason | 10.08.08
I thought it was interesting how McCain had to illustrate how he answered a question, or that he would answer a question directly, or that he was following the rules of the moderator.
What was his tactic? Was he trying to suggest that he is well behaved and that he will be well behaved as President…that he and only he can follow the rules?
40. Aaron E | 10.08.08
all right ive watched what bush has done with this country since the age of ten, Ive concluded that maybe “It’s Time For A Change”. so i’m used to be all for republicans but after these last 8 years i’ve decided to become a democrate. the only thing that will be good about McCain being in the running, and if he decides to carry it on, is the “No Child Left Behind” law.
OBAMA ALL THE WAY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
41. coronada_xv | 10.08.08
McCain looked shaky and old last night, trying to control his temper. He and Palin really scare me. A psychiatric exploration of Palin, I think, would uncover multiple pathologies.
42. Dane H. | 10.08.08
I don’t understand how the “pundits” thought that Obama “won” the debate last night. Although his positions were clear regarding the economic crisis and health care (whether you agree with him or not) when it came time to discuss foreign policy he fell absolutely flat on his face. For the most part it seemed that he struggled not only to find words to express himself, he also, and more importantly, struggled to find the concepts to wrap the words around. Some of the guys here thought he was just choosing his words carefully, but don’t be fooled, he clearly had little idea how to respond to the questions on Pakistan and Russia in particular. This is a dangerous situation, that a man who would be President has no clue about the importance and ramifications of US foreign policy.
On the other hand, he did do a great job of once again blaming the Bush administration, a mantra that became tiresome some years ago.
Clearly, Obama struggles with leadership concepts, as was quite evident in last night’s debate, and although he fancies himself a leader, he lacks both leadership qualities, credentials, and ability.
Thank you for the opportunity to comment.
43. Frances Barrineau | 10.08.08
I agree with the comments about McCain’s rude “That one” remark. I am saddened to see a man who was once held in high regard for his sense of honor as a P.O.W. use such a demeaning and condescending remark. Not only that, but it was an example of the coded language to express racist attitudes while pretending not to be racist. No one is fooled by this sort of thing and for this alone he deserves to lose the election. It showed quite clearly what type of man he has become and what kind of President he would be. We can’t afford to have him in the White House.
44. cliffyworld | 10.08.08
Please read related article titled: “It’s Not Always The Pork. The Cows All Have To Be Fed Too.” at http://www.cliffyworld.com/blogs
45. Pete | 10.08.08
It’s interesting to read all these comments, and it’s clear that each commenter has been heavily influenced by his or her party affiliation. Well, I’m here to tell you I was a lifelong conservative voter, but have now changed my voter registration from Republican to Democrat because of the disgraceful, negative Republican tactics in the debates and in the Republican campaign as a whole. Republicans are also spreading lies about Obama on the internet that are so obviously lies I cannot understand how any semi-intelligent person could believe them. The Democrats also stretch the truth on occasion, and a few times even make false statements, but they are amateurs at smear politics compared with the Republicans. I’m ashamed of the depths to which my (former) party has descended. Sarah Palin in particular has made vicious comments about Obama, which many Republicans have lapped up, but this (former) Republican is not so gullible. Two valuable resources to help evaluate the material being spread on the internet and being spouted in the debates by all four candidates are http://www.snopes.com and http://www.factcheck.org. I appeal to everyone not to believe what you read or hear about either candidate for president or either candidate for vice-president without first checking with these two non-partisan web sites.
46. Richard C. | 10.09.08
Obama diffently won. McCain turned me off right away when they shook hands and McCain turn and raised his eyebrows as if Idid my duty I shook that ones hand At leasst we get some answers from Obama and i haven’t heard much from McCain except how much of a hero he was I served in Nam in 67 and68 with the 173rd Abn we did our job and doesnot have anything to do with what we do today McCain lost me a while ago and we don’t need a hero We need a leader. Rich
47. Cindy | 10.09.08
A lot of the comments above appear to be from young voters… and I’m most impressed when they are articulate and passionate about their candidate. In our Repulican-dominated state of Kansas, young people are registering in droves–mostly DEMOCRATIC. They want change. Real change. They are not fooled by the dirty name-calling-politics of Palin/McCain. I hope the new, young voters will tell their parents and grandparents, “Don’t be afraid of Obama.” Tell them Obama IS CHRISTIAN; Obama IS A US CITIZEN; Obama UNDERSTANDS working class problems; Obama is not a terrorist. I understand that politics involves stretching the truth; both sides do it. It is one thing to stretch the truth about voting records, but it is quite another to infer that someone is a terrorist. Comment #47 Pete is right–check out the facts. “Snopes.com” and “FactCheck” are dispelling many of the myths Palin and McCain are using to scare people. I used to respect McCain and I thought this election might be a tough decision, but his choice of running mate; his strange attempts at dealing with the economic crisis a few weeks ago; his discourteous demeanor at the debates; and his green light for “gutter” politics has made a BIG impression on me. I don’t believe I want such a man for president; and I definitely don’t want this particular woman (Palin) as VP. –Independent Voter from Kansas
48. Andrew K. | 10.10.08
McCain’s comment was not a display of racism. Obama startled him with big jabs early on in the debate. I am sick of watching the debates because many people like to poke fingers at the McCain as soon as his mouth opens. When there are differences in race and background between candidates, people start interpretting statements in ridiculous ways. In my opinion, it is RACIST to infer that the term “that one” was meant to be racist.
Please try to look further, past the racial differences and at the presidents and their real views. People who interpret playful insults as racial slurs should not vote because they would abuse the American privelage to vote.
49. Jim Dandy | 10.11.08
It would truly be a terrible moment in our nation’s history if McCain and Palin were to be elected on their platform of hate and lies. There was a time I had some respect for McCain. But he has completely lost my respect. In fact I must have been mistaken all along to think that he had any honor. If he becomes president I will still have no respect for him. But even worse if he becomes president it will show the world that the days of an inspiring America are over. If he becomes president the world will see that America is ruled by hate, fear and bigotry and that every other country had better be afraid because a hate filled, angry old man and his ill-informed religious fundamentalist vp are in charge and they are erratic and filled with negativity. In fact negativity is their platform.
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1. Hot Sauce | 10.08.08
I, personally, found McCain’s answers to be “scattershot” and disjointed. He seemed to be mixing too many notes into one answer. I also am quite tired of his condescension and lack of professional courtesy towards Obama, especially with last night’s “That one” comment. Although I appreciate Obama’s refrain from attacking McCain on a personal level, I must admit I wouldn’t have minded a “geriatric jab” here and there as an answer to McCain’s insolence.