Did the conventions change your mind about whom you will vote for on Election Day?

honestly the lady needs to toughen up cause. i know if she cant handle our media dogging her she's not gonna be able to answer to the physcho russians who want to return to the dark ages... and she wont be able to handle the other powers that run this world come on lady getting into the highest office in the land is not going to be a easy job your gonna have to jump through some rings of fire till it happens

IS anybody else INSULTED and APPALLED once again by this idiotic opportunistic McCain USING the victims of 9/11 to further his political career. Those victims were New Yorkers. Just how many are rolling over in their graves - along with their living families - considering that their legacies should constitute a YES vote.

He and his party of un-cognizant robots REALLY don't get it!!!!!!!! Insular ideology. Out of touch Reality. Seen repeated over and over and over again.

I am disgusted as I think ALL Americans should be. If you feel the same, let there be a collective and LOUD call!!!!

John McCain is no robot. He is his own man. He is no George Bush (thank God). I am just flabbergasted that anyone who loves this country would vote for anyone other than John McCain, a true patriot and tireless worker for this country and its citizens. We can't have everything we want and we can't agree with everything a candidate has to say. I don't recollect him promising anything in his speech last night but to work, work, work for us. Candidates shouldn't make promises they can't possibly keep. COUNTRY FIRST!

Sorry for my haste! I failed to refer to the many victims who were not inside the Twin Towers. Apologies.

I'm sorry you feel that way. Sarah Palin is not afraid of anyone or the media. She can stand on her own two feet very well and take anything that is thrown towards her. . . thank you very much. She took the wind out of Obama and Joe's sail. She is the first woman candidate that isn't angry. She uses her professional femininity to articulate her views without feminist anger. If you thought she was putting down community organizers, you took it out of context. She was pointing out that though community do good work, they don't have the responsibility level of a mayor or governor . . . she was simply responding to Obama's questioning of her experience, not a put down of volunteerism. The radicals, extremists, and elitists are clearly Obama and his bag of wind . . . Joe! What a refreshing change for this country with John and Sarah!

Amen, That is the truth she acts like she is so perferct, but her 17 year old daughter is pregnant, and probably don't want her child, but she is quick to talk about Barack. I LOVE BARACK, and it pisses me off to hear someone talk about a good man with a good heart. Palin and McCain are both confused. He sounded like a zombie at the Republican Convention. VOTE BARACK 08'

It seems you are listening and hearing and seeing only what someone else tells you. For the past 20 months all the Republicans has said is Obama isn't experience enough. Now they get a lady to obtain the female votes who honestly have no experience, but that's Okay. Everytime someone says something about her it's sexist. Well I'm a woman and I say I don't want her to be in charge of my life and country in time of war. The fact that her 17 year old daughter is pregnant which is something that happens in all familys is only a big deal when it comes to Palin because she preaches just say no and her daughter is a prime example that it don't work. Second thing the Republicans has own the house for the past 8 years and it's time for them to go. Let's see you let someone live in your home for 8 years and they hurt you everyday and when it's time for them to go they say they are sorry, but they have changed and they promise to do right by you. You let them stay another 4 or 8 years. How dumb.

In response to cliff-49800: I dunno, Cliff, she seemed pretty pissed off to me.

All the Republican Convention showed me is that the Right is still flat out nastier than the Left, and the only way the Democrats can win is to lower themselves to the same base level. I honestly don't know if I hope they do, or pray they don't!

Just BTW, anyone who is sincerely interested in, and unafraid of, learning more about who, and what Sarah Palin really is, I strongly recommend you read a letter I found in response to a column in The Washington Independent. I'm not allowed to include the link here but I can give you most of it, and hopefully it won't be censored:

The article was entitled "The Reform Candidate?" by Laura McGann. I believe this is worth reading because it lays out a view of Sarah Palin by someone who actually lives in Wasilla, Alaska and has known Palin for 16 years, a woman named Anne Kilkenny.

This is an important election. We as voters and citizens owe it to ourselves to learn all we can about the principles running for office, and not just blindly swallow the party propaganda from either side.

"All that is necessary for evil to triumph is for good men to do nothing."

I am so sick of McCain and his POW bull-roar. I want to know what his beloved Republican Party is going to do for the Middle Class other than take them to the cleaners AGAIN.

Wake up Sarah. When you took this offer your life became an open book. You and your family will be looked at and people will see warts and all. So stop sniveling.

From the get go I didn't think Obama could even lead a Boy Scout Troop and since the convention I am even more sure that he couldn't.
I have always been impressed with John McCain, with his background, his working knowledge of the legislature and his foreign policy skills. I could not imagine electing Barrack Obama.
Mr Obama is an unknown commodity with little or no experience, how and why would we ever intrust the future of our country, our families and our security to a man who does not know what loyalty, dedication and commitment to service even means.
I am amazed at all the comments by Obama supporters who seem to want the government to support more of their own personal inefficiencies. Let's face it, the Democrats want and thrive on more government, bigger government and higher taxes...how is this going to make our lives better? The hard working middle class is simply going to have to pay for more of the non- tax paying groups, as I see it.
Vote Republican... it is our only hope!

Se didn't pick on them at all....she look them square in the face along with all of the other money spending loser in DC. She could care less about the drive by media and she obviously knows how to budget..

He is a true hero. Every American should spend one day in a POW camp to see how faithful they would be for this country. It is because of people like him this country is still free. What has Obama done that qualifies him whatsoever?

If John McCain is "his own man" then why did he allow special interest groups to choose his running-mate for him? He originally wanted Lieberman or Ridge but they're both pro-choice and the evangelical nut-cases told him they wouldn't vote for him if he chose one of them as his VP. Hmm...sounds an awful lot like pandering to me!!

Ex-POW is not a qualifier for President. But voting for GB the last 8 years sure makes him a GB Junior. I don't need another 4 years of GB voting or decisions. Thank You a VET

What I find offensive is that fact that mccain acts like he just came into politics from his war hero status??? He acts as though he has not been involved heavily with lobbyist...half of his advisers are lobbyist???

He acts as though he's not a republican??? Bp sponsored palins inauguration, Alaska is #1 with pork belly spending??? what's the deal? to me more of the same mccain/palin=bush/chaney 4 more years. He said no more reckless spending , well he's right on that he will NOT win in November...the American People will with Obama/Biden!

he says that dems will raise taxes...he's talking only to the people who make $250,000 or more...I'm tired of that nonsense aren't you? He's not being truthful...at all.

Make your voice heard see you in November Obama/Biden real change not fake change w/lipstick....

Debbie Engles:

Go on you tube and see the vets reaction.
No one can win on the issue that McCain is a war hero. But right now I think it is the time to pick someone who knows where he can lead the county to. I never doubt Bush loves this county neither. Check on the maps, I guess the only countries are in the wars are: Iraq. Who says we will not be free? No American will allow that to happen. If we look at things at two sides, when you beat a person up, don't you expect other person to defend? War is really the last thing we need and it doesn't keep up safe.

Plus, in my opinion, Obama will have far more clear judgement on the war because he is not so emotional attached with war as McCain is.

If you check youtube and see McCain left room angry after a woman just mentioned war Vietnam during a discussion on family issues. A bill or something which McCain appose. It's hard to see things clearly when you are emotionally attached. My opinion.

I would bet everything I had that if Obama would have put Hillary on his ticket, McCain would have not put Palin on his. Hmmm. Makes me wander just how scared he really is. I have heard minimal plans for his "CHANGE" and numerous "feel sorry for me I was a POW." I am sorry but right now the only people that I feel sorry for are the American people that have had to put up with the same ol thing for the last eight years, and will have to for the next four if we all fall for the boo hoo feel sorry for me, and look, I am brave enough to put a woman (unqualified) on my ticket. Wake up America. Peek through all that and take charge!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Wow. gaharris, you really need to see an ears nose and throat doctor, cause you must have been watching different conventions than 38 million others were.... Obama/Biden 08

Oh, just food for thought, looking at the conventions themselves -

DNC - all are welcome here, no matter who you are 75,000+ in the stadium 38,800,000 via TV/Satelite etc.

RNC - The priviledged and the few 25,000 in the hall, 38,900,000 via TV

I know I watched McCain/Palin, I think the difference in the number, is the Democrats who wanted to see if he measured up. I am pretty confident in the opinions on Newsvine, that McCain/Palin fell a bit short and if We the People didn't watch their numbers would have been much lower.

What I don't understand is how any woman who supported Hiliary can feel good about supporting the McCain/Palin ticket just because Palin has been added. Palin stands for everything Hiliary was against. Their beliefs and positions are polar opposites. I resent the Republican party thinking they can so easily win me and other women over simply by adding a woman to the ticket; a woman that no one knows and whose record is questionable at best. Didn't we support Hiliary because of her positions and not just because she was a woman????

You really have not done your research have you. First off Sara Palin has never tried to be a Hillary wannabe, second her record stands for it's self. She has accomplished alot of things. We must have been watching two different speeches because the one I saw showed a very confident woman, one with determination to go out and fight for the average working people of America, in no way shape or form did I see anyone whining. People are saying they have never heard of her, well when did any one hear of obama? It was after he threw his hat in the ring. The one thing I can say, the Republicans are not making idol promises they know any changes will take a lot of hard work and will take people that can stand up for American citizens. There is no promise of waving a magic wand, walking on water or snaping fingers from someone that hasn't a clue on how to get things done, someone with zero experience. I would much rather go to sleep at night knowing that any battles that come along will be fought on soil other than the united states. Americans need to wake up there is a whole lot more to change other than just saying there will be. I for one wants someone in there ready to fight for me!

Today as I watched clips of mccain on the campaign trail I noticed cindy had her "give me sympathy" fake arm cast on. Also, as mccain moved away from sarah I could almost see the leash he had on his "pit bull" as he paraded her around. These people are truly pathetic.

Also, I considered asking cindy for a grant to pay for my college tuition since she had spent over 300,000 dollars on her outfit, but I figured she wouldn't do it since she does not believe in helping the community since they ragged on community organizers until I was sick to my stomach.

They will surely lose in november if we all stand together. Remember what hillary said, "when you hear the dogs barking and coming to attack you, just keep going, don't give up, stand strong."

Ah yes, I certainly would think the Obamas would NEVER wear such extravagant clothing--certainly such humble people as they shop at Walmart instead.

And how dare Sarah compare jobs as trite as mayor and governor to something as impressive as a community organizer, for heavens sake! Mayors and governors come and go, but community planners---now there are our lifelines!

When Democrats have any power at all in the government and anything goes wrong it's always those "crazy tax and spend liberals" who messed up the country in the words of folks on the right. So, I am always amused when the Republicans are in power and mess things up in the government and therefore the country - my right leaning friends always say that "government" or "all politicians" messed it up. But never will they say that the Republicans messed it up. One should always remember that; The only thing worse to a conservative than being wrong is having to admit it.

It is interesting to me that Sara Palin would consider herself a Pit Bull when you must consider the description of a Pit Bull. Sara Palin, proudly boost of being a Pit Bull with lipstick at the RNC convention a few days ago. Does this mean that she will kill the economy, kill jobs, or kill the United States People and there spirit? I am not sure I want a Pit Bull to be second in line to number one seat to lead the United States for 4 years let alone for 4 seconds. I will prey for Alaska to have to deal with such a predator. American Heritage Dictionary - American Staffordshire terrier n. A strong muscular terrier of an American breed with powerful jaws, a broad skull, and short hair, originally developed for dog fighting. Also called pit bull, pit bull terrier, Staffordshire terrier.

I would like a tuff dog as my commander in chief; however, I would prefer a Lab or a Boxer because they are smart. They have the energy and a kind heart, the kind of heart that Pit Bulls do not posses. Let's consider the Obama movement a Boxer. "Bully breeds" are considered to be a: American Staffordshire Terriers, Bull Terriers, Pit Bulls, and American Bull Dogs. I believe Sara Palin to be a bully!
Pit Bulls are said to be popular with irresponsible owners, who see these dogs as a symbol of status or machismo. I believe that to be John McCain!
Even when your family needs you the most? A Pit Bull is known for having the desire to continue on and/or complete a task despite pain and discomfort. God bless her children. Pit bulls and pit-bull crosses (not always easy to distinguish) have caused more than a third of the nation's dog-bite fatalities since 1979 and a comparable proportion of serious injuries. Even though she is no dog she has caused many fatalities by way of her belief of hunting and gun use. WOW Pit Bull with Lipstick, I am not sure I want to see her off of a leash!

Obama/Biden 2008

Greg you hit the nail on the head. You are right the GOP always blames everyone but them self's for their mess ups GOOD job GREG

You are definitely right sturner-0425 sarah palin seem to be the type of person that would pick up a rock hit you with it, then put her hands behind behind her back then say she did'nt through the rock sarah palin is a bully and cant be trusted.

Yollie

In Alabama

Destroy our constitution? Who has tried and continues to try to take away our 2nd Amendment rights? If Obama increases the taxes on the rich, then our jobs will go overseas. More taxes on the rich and the corporations will push more jobs away from America. And do you really think that Asama and Al Queda are going away? Get real. Just as soon as we let our guard down they will attack again. These are fanatics and care nothing for our way of life and our liberties. Talking and discussing our differences will not work with them. McCain understands fanatacism as he has lived it.

Dusty - if the consequence of taxing the rich is increased outsourcing, I don't need to make a further argument against your logic. The punishment against American workers because the ultra wealthy will not be able to afford yet another home or yacht is, and has been for the last 8 years, self-evident. Obama has consistently pledged to go after Bin Laden and the terrorists in Afghanistan. Have you not heard or read anything lately other than partisan politics?

It seems to me that you are the extremist.

Dusty, Obama is much better then McCain when it comes to foreign policy. Most of the countries overseas want Obama as president, because that's the only real hope we have when it comes to the war on terror. I guess our education system is starting to become second rate to other countries. Back to my point, McCain will just get us in more unnecessary wars. He is a hot head who thinks it is better to bully other countries and leaders instead of talking to them. Your boy McCain helped to put us in Iraq, a war based on false pretences. Saddam had no weapons of mass destruction. Saddam had no connection with 9/11. Barack Obama voted NO against invading Iraq. McCain voted YES. And you think McCain knows how to deal with terrorists. GET REAL. Barack Obama wanted to increase the troop brigades in Afghanistan instead of invading Iraq. Osama Bin Laden is in a cave between Afghanistan and Pakistan. That's the real terrorist. McCain took the eye off the ball and helped to create the mess we are in now. In 1958, McCain graduated from the United States Naval Academy and had one of the lowest class ranks, 894 of 899. He was 5 away from the lowest rank. Barack Obama, on the other hand, graduated from Harvard with top honors in 1991. Oh, he was also President of the Harvard Law Review. So i guess I don't understand how you think McCain has the judgment or the intelligence to keep America safe. If nothing else, he has made us more susceptible to an attack. Barack Obama is the SMARTER choice, who has the JUDGEMENT to keep us safe.

And to Obama increasing taxes... He will make a modest tax increase on the rich. He does plan to cut taxes for the majority of middle class America though. A big part of his policy is to keep jobs in America. He will do this by giving companies who stay in America tax breaks, as an incentive to stay in America and employ Americans. Frankly, your comment had no foundation and was filled with lies.

I have heard and read everything and your insinuation to the contrary is nothing less than insulting. Basic economics shows that if we tax the rich and the corporations that that cost will always be passed down. The wealthy will always find a way to buy the things that they feel they deserve. If the tax burden on them is increased then that cost will be passed on. And pledging to do something isnt the same as doing it. Obama has no military experience, no experience running a town let alone a country. And Biden does not either. I have no love for Bush nor his policies. I too believe that he has lied to the country to fullfill his personal agenda. The fact remains that we are in Afghanistan and Iraq. We cannot just pack up and leave. We have started something that requires us to finish it. McCain is the only one of the candidates that has the experience to do so. On the surface it may look like McCain is a Bush follower but he knows that we have to finish what we started and is doing what he knows is the best way to do it. If that means agreeing with Bush then so be it. Do not even begin to accuse me of being ignorant to the facts. When people grow up and take responsibility for themselves and quit waiting on the government to fix every problem they have, we as a country will be much better off. I am tired of the democrats social programs that take money from "The Rich" to pay for them so the so called poor and middle class are better off. Life is tough and always will be. Some people will always do without. That is a fact of life and has been that way since the dawn of time. If you dont like where you are in life, get off your ass, work hard and with a little luck you may have something.

what does military experience have to do with anything? some of the best usa presidents had NO military experience!

And why do you believe that foreign countries want Obama as president? Because as he has said he will try to use talk as a means to diplomacy. I am reminded of the saying, "Talk softly but carry a big stick". Talk is fine but be ready for war or at least ready to defend oneself. And Albert Einstein flunked his college entrance exam. Experience is worth more than just going to school and getting good grades. I will not respond to this again as you have your mind made up. That is the great thing about this country. We can believe as we wish and its ok. As for lies, that is insulting. I did not lie at any time. What I did is express my beliefs and what I have read and seen brought me to these beliefs. There is no way I would vote for Obama. No way, no how.

Typical republican response. Life is tough, deal with it. That's why our economy is in the tank. That's why everyone is losing their home. That's why the headline today is "Jobless rate soars to 6.1%" Ya know your right. People are home sitting on their ass, looking for a damn job because of Bush's economic policies that McCain is right in line with. Were you in a coma during the Clinton Administration, when we had a sound economy and the unemployment rate was at all time lows. I do enjoy where you state that "Life is tough and always will be. Some people will always do without. That is a fact of life and has been that way since the dawn of time." But on the same hand you state that we cannot just "pack up and leave" Iraq. Guess what. Terrorism has been around since the "dawn of time." You will never defeat terrorism. They have different beliefs and ideologies then we do. Every time one goes down there is another to stand in their place. McCain helped to put us in Iraq. WE HAD NO REASON TO BE IN IRAQ IN THE FIRST PLACE. McCain stated at one of his infamous "town hall meetings" that he would be fine staying in Iraq for 100 years. Iraqi Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki supports Obama's withdrawal plan. They Iraqi's want us out. The American people want us out. Even some of your republicans are starting to lean towards a withdrawal. McCain stands firm that a withdrawal would be a mistake. Yeah, lets keep hemorrhaging millions of dollars into a never ending war instead of using that money to protect us here at home. McCain doesn't listen, which is partly the reason why he was the bottom of his class at the United States Naval Academy. I want a president who listens, who takes advice, who talks with other leaders and looks at the facts before putting us to war. McCain is reckless and out of touch. The man doesn't even know how to use a computer or access the Internet. How will he protect us from Cyber attacks, which would damage us more then other land attacks would. It is asinine to think that McCain is better equipped to run this country then Obama.

Lowering taxes on the rich only really helps the rich. Here's a link to a great article talking about the differences between Dems and Reps and the effect on the economy while in office.

As for the argument that Obama doesn't have the experience needed to lead a nation. Let's just consider that he has actually worked WITH the people he's trying to help. He knows the struggles they are faced with and how to actually solve some of the problems. McCain is an American hero, that's great and we can't discount that fact, but being a war hero doesn't qualify you to be President. If we hold the argument that Sarah Palin has more executive experience than the entire Democratic ticket, then it also holds true that she has more executive experience than John McCain. In that case, shouldn't she be running for president? I would be scared to have her as my President. Scaring people with talk of security threats and terrorism has seemed to be a good tactic for the past two elections, and while that is still a concern, there are more issues on the table than making people scared and unsafe. This election is about the immediate future, but more importantly about the future of America 10 and 20 years from now. So, thanks for being a hero, John McCain, but your policies stink. If you're interested in "normal" people, you'll vote for Obama.

Dusty, it is very sad to read your views. To think that in today's time there is still someone with the lets kick ass mentality is really sad. There is a saying "you catch more files with honey than with vinegar." Don't you think that may be it is time to give diplomacy a chance. There was once a time that America stuck Respect in the hearts of many, now we are ridiculed. We went into Iraq for the wrong reasons and spent all the time and money fighting and may I say killing both Americans and Iraq's while the real treat is in Afghanistan.

You say that you do not love Bush or his policies, yet you are ready to cast your vote for the very same policies. Did Bush not promise to bring Osama to justice? How long has it been now? Where is Osama right now? You want us to vote for MaCain who has the same people that backed Bush supporting him and promising the same as Bush did, I don't think so.

You say that raising taxes for the rich will lead to outsourcing. well I can tell you that regardless of the taxes the rich and corporation pay, that America is going to lose jobs overseas. This will happen not because of the taxes but because of a thing called Profit. As long as corporations can find cheaper labor else where, that is where they will go.

As for taxes, in my opinion, I rather I have a job to pay taxes than be jobless Face it America does have an infrastructure to support. You want this war to continue? Well how do you suggest that we pay for it? You will rather the country pay for a war in another country than build and promote an healthy America. They say that the truth speaks for it self, if that is the case, the Bush/McCain agenda has not worked. McCain does not speak of change, he speaks of keeping things the same.

Believe it or not, there was a time I would have voted for McCain, but the McCain today is not the same guy that he was pre elections. It is McCain that I do not know.

Dusty...Newsflash...the second amendment is our right to form a militia just as towns people did during the American Revolution to prevent the hostile takeover by the British. It is not for individuals to own a bazooka. Republicans are so busy wrapping themselves in the Constitution that they don't even know what the actual meanings and intentions are. Tell me one Democrat that has said that they want to repeal your precious 2nd Amendment as the Republicans are trying to overturn Roe v. Wade ??!!! Give me a break! Republican = Hypocrite = Sarah Palin.
I'm anxious to find out why she stood at the podium and denounced federal earmarks when she took them ($27 million) herself for Alaska. COME ON! She got her "bridge to nowhere" and now it's over. She preaches only abstinence and fails to preach it to her daughter. I have no problem with the daughter whatsoever, but put your money where your mouth is. How many Republicans have we watched get caught doing what they so vehemently oppose??!! There are two many to list. If she was hoping to get this former Hilary Clinton supporter's vote...she won't be able to count on it.
If McCain were to get the Presidency and die in office God help us if she were to take over. I wasn't going to voter for him anyway, but with her as VP there would be no way I would every consider it now.

Taxes....

Read read read, research people my God..this is not the time to be ignorant and enjoy being ignorant. Yes Obama plans to raise taxes on those that make more than $250k a year, HOWEVER, the tax increase on those people will still be minimum...please do some research and quit believing everything you hear. Damn, I work everyday and have a Masters degree and yet I am barely making it. Give 95% of Americans who go to work a BREAK, that's all we want is a @!$%#ing break. Senior citizens should have medicare and social security, education should be affordable for every American, healthcare should be universal. We are talking about the leaders of the Free World...and this is to all of the Appalachian White voters that are either afraid to vote for Obama or just part of the racist few....over 60% of West Virginians receive some form of government assistance, get your heads out of your asses and understand your future. And if nothing else know this, that I as a working American who believe that all Americans should have a decent life, will do whatever it takes to make sure that even you...and you and those who will benefit most from a Obama/Biden ticket but don't quite get it...it will be us Liberals...ones who believe in peace and true prosperity that will help to make the change necessary for this great country to get back on track and you can thank us later...

To Dusty

All I have to say is "OH PLEASE"

BRAVO!!!! neighborhood BRAVO!!!!! You hit the nail right on its head or maybe I should say you HIT THE BULLSEYE.

Absolutely...you said it "AnotherAverageJoe" and "jlove"...I have a degree...a job...but the Republican administration (War & Taxes & Borrow from China to pay) is killing me! I do want to say Dem congress needs to get on the job too. But, Obama does not like Lobbyists...see *Palin's history...google her oil interests...and google Kilkenny(not sure of spelling) she is someone who knows her from being Mayor in Alaska 2 yrs ago+!

Uggggghhhh, where did you get the article? And...ummmm...are you trying to say there is no security threat to America? Can you guarantee the citizens of this country that there will no longer be any attacks? This election, I'm sorry to say, is not about the immediate future. Unfortunately, who you put in office today will change your future for years and years to come. I feel safer with his policies than your "normal" America-hating candidate. No way, no how, NObama.

Dusty - if the way we are doing things now is so great why is the middle class deteriorating? Why do CEO make millions+++ per year while the people who actually do the work make pennies? Why can I BARELY afford health care for my family with both my husband and I working 45+ hours per week? Why can't I afford gas to go to work?? Why can't I go to the grocery store twice a month like I used to (now only once)? I will tell you why....tax breaks go directly to big business' wallets. It doesn't trickle down. They keep it for themselves. That is (one of the many) problems with republicans, you assume everyone else sits on their ass all day and doesn't deserve a wage that pays the bills. My husband and I make a good living and still scrape to get by. I don't have any idea how people in a lower income bracket survive at all.

Obama has no experience? Let us not forget that Obama has run one of the most successful campaigns in history. This alone shows superior fiscal judgment, ability to manage, and ability to bring together a grassroots movement that has outraised everyone of the donations front.

Oh Pleeeeze that he has no executive experience! Get over yourself.

Well independent voter:
This is the biggest lie out there, the reason he is fully funded and reneged in his promise to accept public funding is very simple. He is fully backed by several millionaires and billionaires who wat control of our country, and George Soros being the biggest. To influence and suck our taxes dry when he gets his puppet in office. This is no theory, it is all in the fine print of Obama's economic plan. He is going to have a slush fund for "certain organizations" (that help supposedly community programs) to fund their agenda. And Soros stands to get paid back for helping to elect him. Just like he has done in Chicago It is all a very clever disguised plan to live off the peoples taxes, and other peoples money. He will never do what Governor Sarah Palin has done and whistle blow on his buddies in the corrupt Ill Government. They would destroy him, because he is in up to his ears with them! No, he is an excellent manager to acomplish his fiendish scheme, but for all the wrong reasons and backed by the likes of Soros.

David I,

Are you not worried about the oil backers of Bush/McCain/Palin? They've been paid back handsomely for their support of your candidates.

Talk about the Medical programs, I would look at some of the businesses that are paying the Obama's bills or even that company's that they are working for. Its worth the research or the time.

You have to know someone to hate them.

WOW, I need some of what your smokin... You mean that 15 minute shrill attack ad?

"the difference between a pitbull and an Alaska soccer mom is lipstick"? You mean that "charming speech?

Maybe you got the wrong channel and were watching a leave it to beaver re-run?

Let's see how well she crams for her tests.

Gretchen - She'll be cramming a lot less than Obama. And he's your top guy! Funny, huh?

Your post should have read, "Torrent of hatred spewed by Sarah Palin drew me away from her speech."

I see nothing charming about smug, smarmy, and intolerant dither.

She's a menace.

My aunt is completely charming. Does that make her qualified to be VP? Is that all takes these days to pick a candidate?

I find Barack Obama to be charming, but that's not why I'm voting for him. I think John McCain is charming too, and four years ago would have been psyched to see him in office.

I'm voting for Obama because I believe he's more likely to set a time line for withdrawal from Iraq (wasn't the "Mission Accomplished"?). He will give his tax cuts to the lower and middle class taxpayers who need them the most (don't take my word, check the non-partisan Tax Policy Center online). He'll run up a SMALLER deficit (again, the Tax Policy Center).

PS: Palin flip-flopped on the "Bridge To Nowhere" then KEPT THE MONEY. Now that's "charming."

When you argue economics please realize that there is more than one theory. And that a theory is not a fact but rather a plausible or scientifically acceptable general principle offered to explain observed facts. So that means your theory could be wrong, and please note the conservatives theory is not the only theory on the table. Republicans have been doing their "voodoo economics" now for 8 years and the only place it has got us is in economic trouble. Voodoo economics is not my term it is a term that George Herbert Walker Bush used to describe supply side economics which is something that conservatives brag about. Don't you remember when Georger H.W. Bush said "read my lips no new taxes", but then raised taxes. Do you want to know why he raised taxes? It wasn't because he was a bad person or that he was an outright liar. It was because when he got into office he realized he would have to raise taxes in order to decrease the deficit and the national debt. Do you know why Bill Clinton wasn't able to do all the things he wanted to do during his first term of office? It wasn't because he was giving false promises, it was because he underestimated the complexity of the federal budget. Like many he thought that the federal budget is like the state budget. It isn't. In most states it is illegal for a governor to have an unbalanced budget, this is not the case for the federal budget. Alice Rivlin who has worked for both the Congressional Budgeting Office (CBO; for Congress the legislative) and the Office of Mangement and Budgeting (OMB; works for the president and the executive branch) has urged Americans to realize that we not only need to decrease spending but we also need to raise taxes. It is quite hard to get Americans to accept the fact that we have to do both. We have to pay taxes to decrease our more than 9 trillion dollar national debt and decrease our almost 500 billion dollar federal deficit. An example of our federal budget and national debt is like this, imagine you are out of work and you need to pay down your credit card. Not only would you need to stop spending on it but you would also have to make your payments on time. How do you do that when you don't have a job? The payments on the credit card represent taxes, the spending on the card represents government spending and your job is represented by the economy. In order to pay the bills you must have a job. In order to make payments on time you must have a job. We have to get the economy going by giving people jobs. A recession starts because people stop spending money, which results in job loss. And if you don't have a job you have no money to spend. So guess what everybody, people need jobs! That is step one. If people don't stop sending jobs overseas we are going to stay in deep doo doo. Obama's plan is to provide tax cuts to people who create jobs here in America and tax cuts for people who send them overseas. He also plans to give money to the middle class in the mean time. McCain plans to keep tax cuts fo people that send jobs overseas. Obama is the one who has a plan to help Americans get jobs. Conservatives argue that if we stop people from sending jobs overseas than it will raise the price of merchandise. I agrue how are people going to be able to afford this cheap merchandise if they don't have a job to earn any money. If you make zero dollars and hour you can't even afford to buy something from the dollar menu at McDonalds. Fiscal conservatives typically believe that if you give money to the rich it will trickle down to the poor. All I see is rich people walking around with short arms and deep pockets. They don't have to work any more and while their employees do all the working they complain about even having to pay them minimum wage. They don't pay income taxes because they don't have a job and then they want to turn around and complain about having to pay capital gains taxes. They even complain about paying a death tax. Dude you are dead you can't take the money with you.

Somehow my comment showed up in the wrong area. This long reply with meant for another person. Sorry for any confusion.

As a Christian no one should hate on another person, however, just because she is nice does not take away from the fact that the middle class is broke, homes are being foreclosed, gas is $5 a gallon and we owe China $1 Trillion. I am a financial planner, people's credit cards are maxed, home equity is gone so now they are forced to rob their retirement plans. I know you are aware of people who have been affected. This is the Rebublican promise from 8 years ago and McCain was a part. Palin hate no common sense vote for real change Obama/Biden.. Thanks for your time. God bless!

Why can't people take responsibility for their own actions? No one, not Bush, not McCain, not even Obama made these people over spend or get themselves in these financial situations. I don't want a government that I always have to rely on to bail me out. I work my ass off for what I have and I don't need the government taking more of it when they can't be responsible with what they already get.

Palin, as an ultr-conservative mother who is running as the first woman on a Republican ticket, wants to have it all ways and is quite hypocritical and self-righteous. She wants to tout family values and exploit her pregant teen and special needs baby. HOWEVER, she just does not want to discuss her own family issues, like who will be with her special needs infant during these very formative first years when attachments are made,etc. OF course no one asks a man these questions, because typically and especially in a conservative forum or family the woman stays home to form those attachments and even moreover when special needs are involved. As a highly educated mother of 6 kids (3 of whom have significant special needs, I know that the family issues are dynamic and ever-changing). I think a more professional question is how will she balance these issues and how has she balanced them in the past....Important, for example, if her teen daughter goes into labor and she has to attend an important meeting in Ireland. In Alaska, she was often called "NO SHOW SARAH" for her poor balancing of work and family. She wants to attack others, but takes exception and everyone, including her yells "sexism" when people such as the media or other politicians push back and want more information about her professional past or simply proceed with the issues of this tough campaign. She needs to make up her mind what kind of candidate she is going to be....Right now, she claims to be a pit bull. But she is more of a tough talker with little substance and hides behind curtains and pulls the "sexism" card. Indeed, she is NO Hilary Clinton and will NEVER even be in the same class.

I am a woman and I believe in fair treatment of women. However, there was a reason God made women to carry the child for 9 months, she is suppose to be the care giver. If men could have children (Lord knows I wish they could) then I would support the reasoning that they shouldn't ask a women aboput taking care of her family if they didn't ask a man. Women have been chomping at the bits to be equal to a man but no matter how hard they try and how much they want it, there is always going to be a difference between men and women. God made it this way. Don't get me wrong I believe in equal pay for equal work, however I am also intelligent enough to see the obvious differences. And all that blustering Palin was doing does not make her equal to a man it just makes her a loud, obnoxious, annoying woman.

The democrats have never run on a platform where they try to cram their idea of family values down our throats. The republicans, and especially Sarah Palin do just that. It is her issue, therefore it is a topic which should not be hidden. She has inserted her baby into the campaign as a prop, and touts her support for special needs families, yet in AK she slashed funding for special needs education by more than 60%. In addition, IF her daughter WAS allowed to make her OWN choice, showcasing her daughter around the world to further her own campaign is NOT an example of "facing and doing so with great love and support"...it is hypocrisy in the extreme.

I don't judge her daughter, but I DO judge Ms. Palin for trying to work to ensure that NO woman will have the ability to make a choice as to whether or not she chooses to bring an unwanted pregnancy to term, EVEN if the pregnancy is a result of rape or incest. Who is SHE to tell the rest of the world how WE must decide? If we are to respect HER choice, then SHE must respect ours.

Iretta,

Forget Palin's family for a second. Let's take them off the table. Do you really think that Palin and Hillary Clinton are comparable public servants? You have GOT to be responsible and read a little bit to learn about what Palin believes, supports, has done, and plans to do, versus what Hillary works for and stands for. The two women are opposites. Palin has NO foreign policy knowledge or experience and has a history of abuse of power which is a problem, not just years ago, but right now.

Right now Palin is in the midst of a legal war back in Alaska, on the trail making appearances, AND cramming like there's no tomorrow on the issues of this country and the world so that she may, in the next month, be passably ready to debate Joe Biden, and be remotely ready to give interviews on issues. The only thing you've heard from her is speeches written by Bush-McCain staffers.

Do you understand that VP, "the job she is running for," is not about "attending funerals and checking on the health of the president"* as McCain himself has said, but must be filled by a person ready to become president at any moment?

Hillary may have been ready, and I'm sorry (for you) it won't happen ths time, but Palin is not.

Now get reading.

Thanks, Marianna

Obama/Biden '08

(*Gail Collins, NYTimes)

Gail: What you just wrote about Hillary was good. Now why are you voting for Obama do understand what the President " the job he running for, Hillary her self said Obama is not ready! see my point please think before you vote.

Iretta,
There are two Palin issues: 1) personal issues people may have and 2) academic issues people may have.

I for one am not confusing the two but you clearly are.

1) Personally, I have no respect for Palin. Her choices as a mother and primary nurturer of her children are deplorable. I would consider myself a failure as a mother if I chose her as a role model for me or my daughter. Her values are from outer-space. I have one word for her and that is Freak.

2) Academically, she has little education and no identifiable experience pertinent to her nomination. It is an insult to all the intelligent, Republican women who are superior in terms of experience and true public service motivations.

This election is of great importance to all Americans and women in particular because of McCain's poor choice. McCain is an old, misguided man who should be playing cards with his wife and country club pals.

You need to wake up and as Marianna suggested, read.

Gretchen, MBA

Obama/Biden for the next 8 years!!!!

So, Palin's pregnant unmarried daughter is not relevant? I asked my 17 year old daughter what she thought and she said that "THEY ARE GLORIFYING TEENAGE PREGNANCY". How do you like that? And the republicans just say it's okay because she's keeping the baby and getting married. So, what they are saying to teenage girls everywhere is that IT'S OKAY TO BE PREGNANT AND UNMARRIED. GO AHEAD AND HAVE PREMARITAL SEX!!! I am very angry about the message they are giving!!

Dan, First of all, "Gail" is the columnist I quoted from the Times. I'm Marianna.

Hillary said Obama wasn't ready because at the time she was waging a losing battle against him in the primaries. This is how primaries work: you try to knock down your opponents so that YOU may win. Hillary lost (by a hair, granted) because she demonstrated very poor leadership in the way she ran he campaign, and also because Obama, new though he may be, ran a brilliant campaign and is on the right side of all the major issues. He also doesn't seem to have an honesty problem. He won it fair and square.

I supported Hillary in the early days, but cooled to her and warmed to Obama because of all the aforementioned reasons. As they are SO similar on this issues (which is what's important here: not race or sex or P.O.W. status) Obama is now the Democratic choice. And he's going to make a gret president. And Joe Biden would be able to step in and become president, if need be, just fine.

What, Dan, are you planning to do, since Hillary didn't get the nomination? Vote for McCain? Talk yourself into thinking that he or Palin have any business running or co-running the country? Or stay home?

I assume that because you are an avid Hillary supporter you agreed with her on issues of economy, health care, education, etc., yes? Now Hillary has endorsed Obama so that this country can GET GOING.

You ought to listen to her. Your question to me almost sounds as if Hillary is still an option. She's not. Catch up.

So Dan, I don't know if I should bother asking YOU to think before YOU vote, since it is obviously solely an emotional vote you are casting (or not casting).

Marianna

Gretchen-
You are appalling. You are very good at insulting people, but it doesn't seem like you are a very smart person.

mamakins
you, on the other-hand sound like a sweetie-pie!!

touche

Again, about that smart thing....I think the touche comment would be mine. xoxox

I couldn't agree with JustSayNO more! One thing the republicans have done is to guarantee an increase in teen pregnancies! They joked about the columns that were used as props for Obama's speech. At least those are inanimate objects! Sarah's props are living, breathing children that are paraded out and passed around in a feeble attempt to appeal to people's emotions. The only emotion it stirred in me was anger! Was it any accident that everyone who is anyone had their shot on cable holding that little baby?

Sarah, let the kids get some sleep and go back to being children, not political tools. Quit the 'aw shucks', biting insults and try just once to discuss some of the real issues facing our country, that is, of course if you have anything of relevance that you can actually say on your own without a speech writer.

Haha this mamakins person just calls people stupid when it is her that has no argument. Grow up and get a clue mamakins!

God did indeed give women the honor of bearing children. With that honor comes the resonsibility to care for them. Sarah's daughter probably thought she may as well have a child of her own, since she seems to be raising her sieblings, though I'm sure she has the help of a professional nanny when they are not in front of the camera. Of course the boyfriend is going to marry her if, in fact her mother becomes vice president and hope to become president in 4 years. Having a child at 44 was not a wise decission, knowing the risk of birth defects to babies of older mothers. She could probably make just as wise of decissions for the country. Hilary had her child raised before she got into serious politics, before that she supported her husband in his career.

Ben'79

GrandmaW is right, she should not have had her children at the convention, the Little girl holding the baby. Why wasn't Dad holding him, in fact I saw him hand the child off.

And if you noticed she never held the little girls hand, she just walked along behind her or on the side waving to the crowd. Obama was always holding the children hand or his wife the is not a scene with out him or her holding there hands.

Now about the pregnant teen why bring her in to the picture for a photo op? MCCain is really out of touch with the every day people and the Republican Party has had the country for 8 years now lets let someone else in the door and maybe they will at least try to fix the problem.

momakins
Boo...bad form

1st of all Hillary has ALREADY raised a daughter. Palin has a newborn with down syndrome at home that needs her more than we do. Her 17-year daughter seemed to need her mom around alot more too. Daughters NEED their mom around and that is the bottom line. If Palin will put her needs before her childrens then I know she'll do it when it comes to this country. I don't trust her. McCain has NO sense and can does not give a hoot about real middle class America. He thinks we're all dumb, just because we let the last 8 years get as bad as they did....Yes Us! Bush is still in office and we let him be there. McCain thinks that we're still dumb and will vote for the hottie.

BTW: I'm a mom of five, way hotter than Palin, and no job is more important to me than my kids. When their grown, then I will continue with my ambitions AND NOT BE SELFISH like her. Her children did not ask to be born. God gave them to her for her to raise. Who's going to take care of her sick baby when her 17 year old has her own baby? This whole situation is such a joke.

The difference is that Hillary worked her tail off for years to get where she is. She may be polarizing, and lots of people may not like her, but she is the American dream. Sarah was chosen for cynical, demographic-box-checking purposes, and not even properly vetted--tokenism at its worst. John McCain didn't even know her. If her ticket wins, she is a heartbeat away from the presidency without even having a policy stance of her own.

Most politically ambitious people have formed policy stances on their way up. It is a natural, logical thing to do, because they actually think about governance, about how they would run things if they could. It is significant that she doesn't have any positions. It shows that all she has is naked ambition. She doesn't care about governance, she just wants to get to the top.

That, regardless of her gender, is bad for her party.

And what is it that you think he'll do to make anything we've been doing for the past 8 years any better than it has been.

Be specific!

hey I respect what you have to say about mccain yea he's qualified but will he pull us out of the mess were in at the moment. Dude said our economy is strong were creating new jobs. blah blah blah he's stuck on keeping america safe. Whats gonna be the point at the end of the day yea we have a strong safe country but nobody can find a job or feed there family's

Ok.... so your saying What we've been doing for the past 8 years has been a huge accomplishment because of john mccain and bush or are you saying he's gonna make it worse?

Everyone keeps talking about all of the wonderful things Obama has promised and yet - no specific plans on how he is going to pay for them. People need to be aware - here is MA we had a governor's race with all candidates making outrageous promises. We picked the guy with the best promises and - surprise, surprise - none of them have come through. Another point is that it is not the Bush Administration that has put us where we are today - people need to keep in mind the part the Congress has played in all of this. Our form of government is based on not one person/group having the final word, so when you throw out all of these barbs, keep in mind there is plenty of blame to go around. When people take office, I am sure they find out all kinds of things that impact their decisions so instead of hanging on promises and dreams, let's pick people who can take the information and situations they have been given and - using their experience and good common sense - make the best decisions possible. McCain and Palin have those attributes! We need to get back to our roots, make some really hard decisions, and move forward. We need to not have our hands out waiting for someone else to take care of things, we need to put our hands to work helping each other where we can. It's time we go back to COUNTRY FIRST.

Here here. I second that. Bush didnt get us here all by himself. As for Palin, she is a breath of fresh air. Finally a candidate that I can feel good about. She made change in Alaska by doing what she felt was right and never backing down. She will fight the good ol boy network and force career politicians to accept responsibility. She has an 80% approval rating in Alaska. I dont see anyone in recent memory or currently that can boast that number. As for all you that claim the RNC was hate mongering, what about Jeremiah Wright? Obama went to church there for over 20 years. You cant stay the course for that long and not know what his minister was all about.

You are correct, well partly. You are correct in saying Bush did not get us here alone. He had the help of Congress as well. If the Democrats possessed Congress for the last 8 I would agree totally, but they have not. This President and his agendas have us where we are. The gridlock happening in Congress now does not get Bush a pass for being our first real imbecile President. That he earned alone.
Next up Palin: I would have an 80% approval rating as well if I ran on a platform based on giving out money. Anybody would. Palin is a Christian Fundamentalist. She believes in banning books she does not like, in firing people she does not like and is very much a Christian Jihadist. Her stances would make us resemble a police state with her polarizing positions and her intolerance for things not Uber-Right. She is an embarrassment to women and a career politician with the same tired option of scare them or persecute them. The GOP has for the last 8 years taken a page from the Nazi Play book:

"Naturally, the common people don't want war; neither in Russia nor in England nor in America, nor for that matter in Germany. That is understood.

But, after all, it is the leaders of the country who determine the policy and it is always a simple matter to drag the people along, whether it is a democracy or a fascist dictatorship or a Parliament or a Communist dictatorship. …voice or no voice, the people can always be brought to the bidding of the leaders.

That is easy. All you have to do is to tell them they are being attacked, and denounce the pacifists for lack of patriotism and exposing the country to danger. It works the same way in any country."

Hermann Wilhelm Göring

Resemble anything you remember from Bush?

Dusty,

Breath of fresh air, indeed. Do you know anything about her? We all know about Reverend Wright. Obama dealt with it and got through it.

Do you know anything about Palin's pretty-out-there church or her ties to the Alaska Independence Party, whose leader said some pretty crappy things about America and it's "damn flag"? Or her efforts to ban books? Or her abuses of executive privilege? Or the amount of money she's gotten in earmarks? Or, ANYTHING? Just below Palin's surface image is an amazing amount of questionable leadership, judgement, behavior, and grasp of the law.

p.s. Her approval ratings are way down since "Troopergate" broke. You've got some old numbers there.

And Carrie Mac,

This idea that Obama has promises but no plans is FALSE. It may take you more than 5 minutes, but you can read about his SPECIFIC plans in a number of places, including his website.

Marianna

We need to remember that in January 2006, Who took over the government and promised change? Since that time, we have experienced a historical drop in the value of American homes, record level unemployment rates, a frail economy, and fuel prices that have shattered the sky. This was not the result of the president. Prior to their promise, the economy was booming with record stock revenues, highest housing values in the history of America, lowest unemployment rates in more than a decade, and rising but affordable fuel prices. Although I am NOT a Bush supporter, I am aware of the significant threats on America and you have to face that reality as well. Despite who are leaders are, we will not solve these disputes through talk, history will prove this for you. So rather than going on the attack with emotion from one party due to their strength in the military, remember that third world country's as well as others not worth mentioning do not like America for the simple reason of what Americans have accomplished. Therefore, unfortunate but true, we need to protect it. Therefore, we need to face reality that we can not afford to be a nation without a flag, without a God, and without a leader who can protect it all.

Mary-482715,
Yes, if our country needs a lobotomy and continued high prices on energy, beef, and every other special interest Bush has propped up over the last 8 years--I agree with you.

John McCaine is definitely what our country needs to get that done.

Yeesh.

Its hard for any party to get anything done when there is a partisan veto in the wings waiting for whatever they pass.

Marianna,

Thank you for your list on Palin - but you forgot to mention that she left her small town of approximately 7000 citizens when she was in charge over $20 million in debt because of several improvements to the town that she felt they needed? That's approx. $2857 per citizen of that small town. I don't know about you but I don't have an extra 3 grand laying around to pay for things I don't need - I don't even have 3 grand to pay for things I do need - like food, gas, mortgage. . . .

And she's for drilling in Alaska? Why? Because Alaskans get money back every year because of the money coming in from oil production. Of course some Alaskans want to drill everywhere they can - it's ok to wipe out the Polar Bear population. And even though Alaskans have a surplus they are still high on the list for earmarks and taking millions of dollars from the federal government that could go to help pay off our national and federal debt. I don't know about you - but I don't get a check cut from my state for a surplus.

I'm also from Massachusetts and I have to tell you - My family finally has health insurance that we couldn't afford when my husband lost his business to this booming economy we have.

McCain was frightening before - but now it's just downright terrifying with Palin on the ticket. She is no Hillary and how dare she claim she can break the glass ceiling that Hillary cracked - Palin hasn't earned that right to claim.

If you are going to stand on a platform of conservative family values - then you should make sure your family is a good example of that set of values and if they are not - then don't prance them around on stage as props. If you are going to use them for photo ops - then you need to take responsibility for the backlash. What important government meeting was she in when her daughter had questions about sex and got the "abstinence is the only way" message. I'm no longer able to have children and I don't see a situation where I would ever consider an abortion but I don't want someone else deciding whether I could have one. I'm also not a smoker but I would never tell someone else they couldn't smoke. I hardly ever drink alcohol but I would never tell someone else that they couldn't drink. Where do we draw the line?

I have 4 beautiful children under age 10 and I own my own business so I can be with them all day and make sure they get the mother they deserve. We all make choices when we decide to have a family and we need to take responsibility for those choices.

How dare they suggest that unless you've been in a box for 5 years and tortured that you don't put Country First. Obama has put his Country First and his fellow citizens through his many years of meaningful service to this country.

Please really think before you vote and read and question everything.

Need to review the history of both, see where they come from and where they have been. I agree with you. You need to do you research and know WHO you are voting for. Know the person, Face value isn't at all what its cut out to be. Know what the impact will be.

lets talk a little about class, you do know what that is? McCain ran a classy ad on the last day of the dem convention, congratulating Obama. What did Obama do? Oh he gave an interview (after nine months) with the stipulation that at least part of it be ran on the last night of the GOP convention. Can we say empty suit?

I'm with you. I don't vote for a party, I vote for someone I can believe in. I'm sick of this war and of losing so many young people to it.
Sarah Palin is not a desirable choice for vice president. The Vice President must be someone we would want for President, in case of death or other reasons the President needs replacement.

I bet your the first one that complains about the gas prices too. I would also bet that you don't want the US to drill for oil in the US? Drill or War, either one is going to have to face this.

Palin, a lipstick-wearing pitbull - you got that right! At least Cindy McCain and Laura Bush are cultured ladies. It made me cringe to listen to Palin and all the childish "booing" at the Republic convention. Heaven help us if the elderly McCain's health deteriorates and obnoxious Palin takes over!!!! The whole Republican convention reminded me of a high-school production. Many of their speakers were Republican "losers." McCain is running on his dreadful POW experience from years and years ago, not the current issues, and he seems very out of touch with the common folks. The Democratic ticket, it is very apparent, offer us the most intelligent individuals to problem-solve. Tax breaks for the wealthy only goes into their pockets.

Cindy McCain and Laura Bush are cultured? Odd description for both. They both look like stepford wives, especially Laura. And Cindy is so cultured, bless her heart, that she got hooked on drugs and broke the law to get prescriptions. Of course she probably needed all those drugs because she's married to macho McCain, the angry "maverick." Ha, some maverick.

luckily, the first ladies are not the presidential candidates, right? obama, however used to have a drug problem too.......and not prescription drugs.

open your eyes 70:
Our current president is in this club too or did you not know. Everyone has skeletons........

Wont you call that age discrimination? I mother is 80 and has watched all of the speeches and finds that problems with bot of them. She is glad to see a strong stand and someone who will have an interest in Social Security. He might even keep the government from borrowing from it.

I think that looking over all of the speeches from both parties, there is a lot of Flip Flopping. I was watching CNN one morning and it showed the higher tax people paying in millions of dollars. Then on the next view of it, it showed that they at a small amount more like McCains. I feel as if CNN is not showing the whole story but just the items that make the Rep's look bad. Sad to say that its being done. Half truth is better then none I guess.

Cindy
The GOP's display the twin towers and it is "fear war mongering". Had it been the Dems, you would call it a beautiful tribute.

The images of the twin towers can be both depending on how they are used and viewed. Do you honestly think they were used at the RNC to pay tribute to the victims?

There are a few reasons why Obama's speech is not still receiving attention and the Republicans are:
1. It was a tactical maneuver by the Repubs. to announce Palin the day after to change the story.
2. She's the new kid on the block and a hot story.
3. We've been hearing about Obama for over a year now and the well is running dry on new info.

I agree with you though that Obama has run the more respectable campaign. This country needs someone to pull us together, not rip us further apart with divisive arguments. If you noticed in Obama's speech he asked us to do some things for our country and ourselves(take care of each other, conserve on energy where you can, ect...). McCain asked us to stand with him to get him into the white house. It's disheartening to see where McCain has landed this year compared to 2000. He's proven he will do and say anything to get there.

You said it. Hillary was put through the ringer and yet the first questioning of Palin and suddenly we are sexists......it's such hypocrisy.

Why is it that McCain is good for President, and Obama is not?

Because McCain is qualified to run for president, and Obama is not capable or qualified to be first in command.

Think about it please think before you vote!

What did Hillary do before she ran for Senate? What made her qualified to run for the Senate?

All I hear McCain is qualified to be is a POW (he has much experience there)its all he talks about and its all the speakers at the convention spoke about. Any time he can't answer a question he reverts to a story of his time as a POW. Like with most grandpa's however, the story grows and grows....What else has he done? truly? he certainly doesn't mention any other accomplishments. He is now running on change - well why hasn't he changed anything to date? Strange how he seems to be trying to copy Obama....sadly its too late for him many have already seen that there is no depth to McCain. Just lots of sad stories about his time as a POW. Might I mention that he was NOT the ONLY POW at the time? There were 600 other brave men enduring a difficult time. So truly experience doesn't count. We do many things in life where we have little or no experience. It really is about character and judgement and vision. McCain might have character but I doubt his judgement and vision.

ABC ran footage (while interviewing Cindy McCain) showing Palin stating that she didn't agree that Hilary was dealing with "sexist treatment". Now she's crying foul when she perceives that it's being done to her. They will be falling all over themselves trying to back peddle on Palin's statements. Palin = Hypocrite. She contradicts herself all over the place. How can she even speak the words "God Bless America" when she wanted to withdraw Alaska from the union?! If the Republican is the party of the "so called patriots" then they should think twice about her as VP. They didn't vet her at all. It was admitted that they didn't know of the daughter's pregnancy until the day before they announced her as VP.
This all smells so fishy.

Dan: I will not vote for someone who uses his POW status to get my vote and then votes against (when he shows up to vote) every VA bill including the new GI Bill (which he took credit for after it passed) because it was to good for our young vets. I am a vet and I will only support candidates that have a good voting record on veterans issues. At this point MR. POW DOES NOT but Obama does.

McCain wasn't even qualified to be in the Navy. He destroyed a ship. And over and over again he broke under interrogation. He was where he was (Naval Officer) because his daddy was one of the top dogs in the navy, otherwise he would have been run off.

Another thing: Mc Cain graduated at the bottom of his class in the Naval Academy--894th out of 899! Do we really need a less-than-average (in this case, if you graded the 899 on a curve, he would be a flunkie) president? Our current president, George W., was only a C student, but that would put him farther ahead of his class than McCain!

If you really would like to see good change you should Vote for McCain.

You really would like to see Obama in the military situation room? Really Please look at everything that Obama saying before you vote.

Can NBC every ask Obama a tough question?

Dan, In a real military situation room I would rather see Obama & Biden there than McCain & Palin. I would hate to think what would happen if Palin became President when the OLD MAN kicked the bucket. Tell John McBush to tell us the POW story again.

Dan, the media asks Obama many tough questions, but instead of breaking into a spiel about being a POW, Obama answers the question and answers it in an intelligent manner, so it almost seems like an easy answer, at least to the uneducated anyway. And, heck yes, I would rather see Obama in the war room, my heavens, with McCain in there, we might get WWIII. I have listened to everything McCain says, and I am convinced the old man is early stage dementia.

dan, your ignorance is really causing me some worry. why is it republican die-hards cannot see beyond their greedy little noses. mccoward is a traitor and palin is a extremely vindictive woman. why don't you people for once in your silly lives realize the stupidity of the majority of fools in your party who elected these two ill prepared individuals to represent your party. you should all defect until republicans can again state they are for a balanced budget and small government instead of corporate welfare and religious warfare.

Indiemule, you sound like one of those compassionate liberals whom I have heard so much about who love and encourage free speech and alternate points of view!

She is right the Repbulican party today does not stand for what it did in the past. You cannot deny that

You are right Dan if we elect McCain we will see a change for the worst kinda like when Hoover was in office plus I don't think we will live long enough to serve 4 years he is to old for the job and pressure. So if we want to go forward there is only one choice and in your heart you know its true its Obama the only real choice today

Dan, McCain first huge decision and he blew it, by choosing a woman, not for her accomplishments, but because he need help from the demorcrats, he need the women that say they are upset that Hiliary didn't get the nomination. So he choose Palin out of desperation. You know very well who he wanted, he wanted Joe Liberman, a turn coat but he use to be a democrat.

But his party pulled rank on him and he had to back down so out of furstration and desperation he choose Palin. So how could he be a strong leader when he can't even pick his own VP. Did you pay attention to the amount of pressure that was place on Sen. Obama to choose Sen. Hiliary, every one was saying how good it will be for the parry. But Sen. Obama didn't buckle under the pressure, I am sure he said to him self, win or loose I am picking my VP, this is my decision and I am making it. Now that's a true leader.

Are you aware that when John McCain was running for president in 2000, that people from his own party, yes the Republicans that was supporting George Bush , spread it around that John McCain was mentally unstable and that he was a Manchurian candidate, that he beat his wife and he didn't care about his fellow veterans. As a matter of fact they trashed his military record. And truth be told, John McCain graduated almost at the bottom, in the academy he was 5 persons away from being dead last. I am not making this up, try reading sometimes it will educate you a bit.

And one last thing, don't you think it's time that John McCain stop crying about being captured, Please! How long ago was that? Like 40 plus years or so. He is bleeding that P.O.W status for everything he could get out of it. What about all the youung men and women that are coming home from Iraq, the unnecessary war, with no arms, no legs, brain damaged, etc, most of them are just teenagers. McCain is a grown old man, and he just keep whining, whining. Do you have to be a P.O.W to be a good president?. He did pretty good for himself, don't you think, look he can't even remember how many houses he own, out of touch with reality I will call it.

Every one out there with some intelligence, even like a grain of mustard seed, vote for Sen. Obama he will bring about well deserve change.

I have a question for you, If John McCain was not good enough to be president when he was running together with George Bush, why is he good enough now?

mr mayor guiliani says it all, you've got to treat this election as if you'll be hiring someone who is 'qualified' or 'best qualified' among candidates. bush will not be running on this election and yes it's been a rough ride these past 8yrs ... so the next president/pilot/commander-in-chief/co-pilot will either lead us to a much better or much much much worse predicament and that will be a Reality Check History in the making ...

You're funny!! Nice to know someone still has a sense of humor.

Priceless...thanks for the laugh.....you and Jon Stewart should get together. Hey they can call it liberal propaganda if they want but he's usually dead on and most importantly it's comic relief.

Forget Biden, Obama is creepy enough! I can't help but wonder how they hide the puppet strings that connect just under his arms and at his mouth!

Dear ID,

Fact: President Obama went to a hotel room, alone, and wrote his DNC statement by his own heart, mind and hand. Palin was given a speech and told to say these words.

Which one is the puppet?

You beat me to it, John. The ones with the strings are McCain and Palin. McCain has to have strings because he's losing it, and Palin because she's not yet found it.

Independent voter

I think Obama is a thinker who makes decisions backed by research, who do you think is pulling strings? On the other it is widely understood that conservative christian leaders forced McCain to drop his two first choices for VP and take Palin. His strings are very visible

Obama has said he will overhaul NCLB, which would be a good thing, because all it's doing right now is sending a lot of teachers to other jobs, and these are the good teachers.