why is okay for a black man to fight and die for his country but not okay for him to be president ?

The real challenge for the next President will be to manage, if that's possible, the social strains resulting from a major, possibly prolonged downturn.

The American standard of living is destined for a permanent downward adjustment. The size of the national "pie" will shrink as we, hopefully, learn to live within our means, and everyone will demand what they think is their share. The expression "one US" will have little meaning.

Hey Joe,
I doubt that Obama's race will become the deciding factor. People may be getting used to him, but I believe voters are starting to distrust John McCain (like me) because of what he said when he started this campaign...ie. he was going to conduct a "clean" campaign and he would veto any legislation with porkbarrel spending. McCain has gone south on both those promises and he's showing he is nothing more than another politician who says one thing and does another to suit his needs. I supported McCain when the camapign started, but not anymore. The man lacks "character."

anyone, who stills believes that this man is going to cut your taxes, deserves to get exactly what he is going to do for us, which is nothing.

It is a wonderful reality that Barack Obama is being recognized for his many abilities: intelligence, negotiating, listening and seeing the big picture and thinking through the small pictures or small steps to reaching goals for our country.

We need more courage and strength from Obama...he can't be always stay in the 'Present' state, playing safe and sitting on the fence swinging his feet until he wins the election – kinda wimpy sounding. We need more gumpf and thunder...more leadership and balls...
Reckless McCain, Reticent Obama...where's Hillary?

Unfortunately I don't think that you are right that Obama's steadiness has trumped his skin color. While it may have helped with some people there are many others who will never get passed his race. They won't admit it to you or in polls but when they go to vote it will be first and foremost on their mind. Racism is alive and well and Obama won't change that.

When has Obama ever been honest with the people? He has to make three or four statements on an issue before the real truth comes out on what his stance is on it or what his past is.

Cindy..Ga.

I am very upset about the RACIST outbrust that the McCain/Palin are bringing to their campaign! Yesterday a sheriff of Lee County, in Florida speaked for McCain/Palin, wearing his uniform! Not, only that Sarah Palin have really gotten these unstable people all wild-up with HATE. Calling Senator Obama a TERRORIST ect! Please to the McCain/Paline people they need to tone down the lies. Or something BAD is going to happened!

OBAMA / BIDEN 08
THE ONLY CHOICE for Ending The War, Restoring America, America's Middle Class, America's Image. McCain is a Bush and Palin is Cheney. Do you reall want a set of Look Alikes/Act Alikes for another 8 yrs!

Joe- I can't agree with you more on your intriguing remark that Sen. Obama has been way above his background on race. He is being judged by American voters of 2008 on his remarkable talents and effective vision for the continuation of our economic prosperity in these uncertain times. His substantial performance in both the debates reflects his in-depth savvy on foreign policy and domestic economic crisis. He brilliantly delivered his responses with effective ideas and substances, which have had no match with erratic words from Sen. McCain. We voters know that very well and understand the limitations of Sen. McCain's ability to lead the country.

I like to quote from my college going son, Sami, saying, "No one should ever underestimate the voters about their knowledge and understanding the quality of leadership of the Presidential candidates, while deciding to cast their votes". With the same token, I am proud to extend my son's remark by supporting Sen. Obama not because his background of American, but his outstanding competency and quality of leadership to take this country to lead to the next level.

I wouldn't call it happy talk. We are getting the bad news in droves from the media and are even able to call in our questions and have them answered by experts on CNN and other shows, which is terrific. But we do need hope and vision as well, and that is what Obama offers, tempered with ideas that will strengthen the economy and fix business as usual in Washington. Nothing can be changed right at this moment, but we do need a plan and someone telling us to be calm, that there is a way out. That's how I interpret Obama's words.

Okay, you got me. You scared me for I thought "Obama's race is receding", that you meant his lead in this presidential RACE. You meant his ethnic race... sorry I forgot about that. I wish we all could just see people as people and as MLK said only judge people by the content of their character. I leave out the "not by the color of their skin" for it has always bothered me when people imply someone is liked or qualified or seen as good DESPITE the color of their skin... if I were black it would infuriate me, for what is wrong with any color of skin!!!!! The problem is not the color of anyone's skin, anyone's race but rather the sickness that is bred in the minds of people that think things like that stigmatize a person or make anyone inferior or superior on that basis. I hope this next generation seeing a president with a black father and hence a really nicely tanned looking completion, realize that skin color is like eye or hair color and its time we all get over it, and make MLK's dream come true, and stop wasting time on hate mongering like our Ms Palin has been this week, and instead follow both the Obama's and see the good in everyone, have a thick skin and make a positive contribution in the world and if you MUST judge people, judge them on the content of their character, and sadly McCain and Palin et al have shown so little character that I don't even like them as politicians and thank the Obamas for keeping hope alive in this campaign and for making the kind of change we need – in peoples hearts and souls!

To suggest that Obama "is being judged on the content of his character" or to suggest that he "is the change we really need" are two of the most hilarious statements I have heard in decades.

Obama has continually run on change, however, he failed to change the very corrupt, Chicago, Democratic political machine which has pushed him to the brink of the presidency; had he actually enacted change in that cesspool, his messages would have validation.

As for the content of his character, I can't think of a bigger political animal than Obama; Ayers, Rezko, Rev. Wright and Rev. Pfleger should take any "content of character" conversation off the table.

Obama's ascension has nothing to do with any tangible accomplishments and everything to do with a lack of quality choices.

I believe in my heart and soul that Barack Obama will make a difference so this republican woman will be voting for him.

I am sadden to see the fall of John McCain and I believe he made that happen four years ago when I truly believe he sold his soul to Bush/Cheney. In his anger now, I'm seeing a totally unpredictable (he can call it maverick it's unpredictable from where I stand), desperate attempt to grab the presidency of our country.

Inciting crowds is not the same as inspiring crowds. From where I stand Obama inspires me and McCain is inciting a division that this country truly doesn't need.

Alot of people have seen Obama for the leader he is and will vote for him. I know I and my family are.

I believe Obama will be open and trust worthy to American people.

Race should have no bearing on this election. If their are people in the United States in this day and age that will not vote for a man based on his religion or color of his skin, than this country is in a sorry state indeed.

I heard someone speaking on CNN during my lunch break today. He said something along the lines of, 'If you are in a ditch and someone comes along to try to help you – you don't care if he's white, black, green or striped. We are in a ditch and we need help.'

So true. McCain/Palin have tried to incite hatred amongst the voters but we've seen that from the Repubs before. We won't get fooled again.

But, PLEASE, Obama supporters: don't get over-confident. Go out and vote – don't assume we've got it until it's signed, sealed, and delivered!

I am getting sick of the poor way the mcCain team is using anything to try and bring this man down... last time I checked they both have children and I sure this is effectting their children in so many negative names. Why are we allowing the McCain camp to to do this I was taught when i was loosing at something... work harder don;t cheat and try to bring a person down to win... why are we calling what McCain is doing politics... this is hurtful now we are trying to portray him as a non American.... wow... i am embrassed that media, white american and all those who are talking about him the way they are doing We keep saying PA. and all those other states I guess your saying all those states that do not like black people... new spoke people are allowing this and that is dead wrong and if a black man was calling a white man un american he would be killed and shot... and you guys think it ok.. your editors allows the new clips tp come in to shake people up anything to keep him out of the white house.. I am saddend by all of this... speak with black new spokesmen and they are talking about comments he made toward MCCAIN and Why are we allowing this to go on Media , media, white media and anyone who is trying to take the character of a man and turn people against him white people.... and you want to know why our country is in a state that it in because we talk equality and then behind closed doors we talk color and race and that is why we are not true american people we act like we are

Why is it every Presidential Election season, the public contracts ALZHEIMERS!?
None of the posturing and rhetoric is NEW!
None of the half truths and promises o'plenty are NEW!
It happens like clock work, like it or not, it's one thing that will not CHANGE.
It doesn't matter who you support either, naivety = cynicism, period.

last week at palin speech in jax.fl. i hear alot of death threats against obama from the crowd....this hate speech needs to end before someone get hurt....i reported this to the police and secert service...look at the anger in most of mccain/palin events..

People like Cindy in GA would love for racists to decide this election. The FACT is, Obama was ELECTED the Democratic Nominee for President of the United States. Intelligent, informed, openminded people by far outnumber the ignorant Archie Bunker's of America.

Well, if he's not speaking frankly to the American people now, what makes you think he will? If he demonstrates "resolute unwillingness to deliver bad news or make any significant demands on the public" while he's campaigning, why would that change if he's elected? This is the dating period, when the candidates are wooing us. Allegedly.

Oh Joe. It's like when you see all of this potential in a new boyfriend or girlfriend and they never grow into this person you believe they can be. Accept it. What you see is what you're going to get.

i was at the rally where the lee county sheriff went over the line.as a sheriff he should not have been so racist..i believe he should not be anywhere around obama if he comes hear again..he cannot be trusted to protect obama/biden.i also believe he should quit or the gov.should ask f.d.l.e.to investagate this sheriff

Do you think McCain campaign is right to do this... Wow.. if Obama was doing these attacks of character and a man, he would be hammered in the media.... How come we are editors are allowing this news to keep happening, they are doing everything but calling a the N-word at McCain's tour and not him his wife or Sarah are correcting this a police men in uniform gets on stage to call him out wearing the uniform... so I guess I should trust that cop right not think he is a racist right/ Why? he should his true color and we laugh like its ok... I expect better for those wanting to run those country and if McCain is like this I am glad i am not voting for him because he is a un-american because he allowing comments to take place.. Will someone please call it like it is racist politics and white media some white media not all white media but i am witnessing with my own eyes how we are going backwards instead of forward with this type of politics and media allowing this to take place... wow

It really seems that race isn't affecting voters nearly as much as many worried early on that it would. Older voters who grew up in a more racially segregated time may still consider it an issue, but I'm feeling much less emphasis on it as you talk to younger and younger voters. This campaign has, by necessity, become about issues that directly impact individuals that are much more important than ethic heritage. This is clearly a race where age, gender, and race are being eclipsed by the economy and foreign policy issues. Judging from the turnout I've seen in early voting in my district, most people have already made up their minds and are going to the polls. The McCain camp needs to let the hyper-emtional diatribe go and focus on the real issues. The only hope in this election is to have a plan that people can feel good about, regardless of race or gender. The most focused, calm, reassuring candidate will ultimately win this race.

Good point politicians NEVER EVER tell you the truth...just like you showed with there answers........ We will prolly never have a president that does....... just the way it is..

lampe...
Hey McCain said he will do it across the board without raising taxes. So if we can't believe Obama will raise it on one end and lower it on another along with removal of that Bush Tax break then I guess it is 10 fold for anyone who believes McCain deserves what they are going to get right????????

You can't have it both ways. Obama is the one for America right now.
Our YOUTH are there with him to be inspired and motivated by him.
His election will begin a new chapter in American History that is positive.

McCain/Palin are showing they cannot be trusted. Look at how extreme they have gone with their messages of hate and division.
If they can't keep their word on a simple promise like that what can they keep a promise on????

Hi Anderson,

I just wanted to comment on all of the negativity and hatred that’s taking place at McCain and Palin rallies. It’s disgusting and beyond disrespectful that these two continue to allow their supporters to spew hateful comments about Barack.

And as the media, I think 360 and other news outlets have a responsibility to discuss this, and send a message that this will not be condoned, I mean come on… with statements being yelled from the crowd “Kill Him” and “terrorist” is upsetting, very dangerous, troubling, un-American and they need to Stop! Voters will not stand for this. Anderson, please… discuss this tonight, everyone that I’ve been in contact with, both republicans and democrats have said there is no room for this type of racist campaigning.

Obama is a very gifted and nuanced speaker. He is a master of perception. In his booming voice, he tells everyone that he will withdraw the troops from Iraq. Then in a much softer voice, explains he will leave about 50,000 in Iraq. In his booming voice, he tells everyone that he will create 5 million new jobs. In a softer voice, he explains that it will happen over the next decade. In a booming voice he promises affordable health care for everyone, but doesn't indicate what he considers "affordable".

People tend to hear only the first part, but fail to hear the rest. It's all a matter of perception, and Obama has mastered the technique.

there is alot of people during the eletion that the only thing they see is a black man..look at mccain/palin rallies these rep. are mad and have hate for obama..because he is black,,look at the man in mccain rally,,saying how can you be losing against that,,sounds like mccain at debate..that one.. if all mccain/palin has is hate we are in alot of trouble...go to one of mccain /palin.rallies and listen to the threats you hear from the crowds...some even threaten obama lives....

Is McCain a racist? Is McCain supported by the KKK? Is his hate for Obama based on the fact that Obama is half African-American? Is he inspiring a resurrection of hatred for anything that is not the WASP ideal for a strict conservative Christian society that doesn't tolerate anyone not subscribing to their ideals? Will those heard screaming "terrorist" and "kill him" from the rallies held by John McCain soon bear arms to defend their ideals?

John McCain is wrong...wrong about America...wrong about the liberty and justice for all that he fought for and was a prisoner of war for. Shame on you John McCain!

VOTE, Obama supporters!!!! Tell 30 people you know to vote this NOV.

I am for the first time actually paying attention to politics and to the next Presidential race. I am for Obama all the way, and I'm going to list why #1, I'm ready for change 2# People are now all suddenly talking about if you are voting for Obama you are giving up your American values? You know what I value is that my FOUR FEATHERS such as MARTIN LUTHER KING and MALCOM X died just for Obama to have this chance. The world need to open there eyes and realize The the Great Almighty America is changing as you can see it is also suffering? Why because of the lack of good judgement from our so called leaders of this country and poor judgement from the American people. If you take a look back in the history of America when we the African America people when GIVING A CHANCE we can DO GREAT THINGS.

Why is race always brought up? I won't vote for him and it has nothing to do with the color of his skin. I won't vote for him because he's a DEMOCRAT!! Democrats are tax and spend. Obamas record proves that and nothing is going to change. Does anyone really think only the "rich" people will be paying more? His many tax increases will cost jobs, not create jobs. Why is he put on a pedestal? Does anyone really believe in this promise of change??

Obama will get my vote this time. Over the last 8 years, being in Palm Beach County, FL I have witnessed pure hatred from the republican party. From watching republican operatives harrass Jessie Jackson to having my own vehicle destroyed because I had a John Kerry sticker on the bumper and now I am seeing this terrible behavior again. McCain shouldn't do this to this country. It is his responsibility to keep his flock calm and he isn't doing the job. He has started the same tactics that Bush was doing and we really don't need this with everything else going on in the world.

Someone needs to wake up and put an end to this madness!

Todd- yes McCain is doing all those things. Look at his rallies and back at the convention. It was a WASP reunion!! I fear that when Obama wins, the crazies will come out of the woodwork. I suspect we'll see at least a few assassination attempts before his first year is over. On a positive note, I think if his plans work and the economy improves, many of the Doubting-Thomases may actually face their racism and realize they are wrong.

I think that the irresponsible and outrageous attacks on Barack Obama by the McCain/Palin ticket must cease immediately. They don't seem to realize that Obama is not the terrorist, THEY are! They are deliberately inciting hate and threats from some people who don't need much to push them over the edge. This is the most shameful, despicable campaign I have ever seen in my lifetime.

McCain has nothing of merit or worth to offer the American people in this time of crisis. He can only spread fear with his petty tirades. I lived through the assassination of three great men. I don't wish to ever have to experience anything like that again. God forbid something happens to Obama because of the venomous comments coming from both John and Cindy McCain and Sarah Palin, then they will bear the responsibility for any acts of violence. They have opened the door with their borderline lunatic rantings about not taking care of our brave soldiers, supposedly associating with terrorists from the 60's, and the repeated use of Obama's middle name in a not-so-subtle attempt to link him with Saddam Hussein.

I am appalled by this behavior. I sincerely hope that the American people can exercise wisdom and judgement in the face of this barrage of bigotry and hatred. They should reject McCain and his "sidekick" Palin. Enough is enough!

There's absolutely nothing wrong with a black man leading our country as its President..providing of course he's a CONSERVATIVE!
(Note..I didn't say Republican)

I think it is horrible that the Repugs are playing the race card...but I guess they don't have much else to work with. McCain is a bitter angery little man, Sarah is a dimwit, Cindy Lou is back on drugs and
Todd (the great white hunter) abused his power to get an officer fired. What a slimy bunch.

I am a senior and I am voting for Obama. McCain up side of him is like an old toad croaking on a lily pad and his sidekick is as bad with her cutesy little winks. She needs to cut the crap and admit she doesn't qualify. I think Obama will do a great job because he is smart enough and his wife will make a perfect first lady. They are a great family and I wish them all the luck and that God Blesses us all with his winning the Presedency!

If Obama is elected, he'll probably have full support of Congress. Once he raises taxes on the top 5% or the rich and still cannot implement his big spending programs because of lack of resources, then he'll tax the other 95% and fail misserably on his campaign promise. It happened with Clinton and it'll happen with Obama....guaranteed!

If you watched the Ohio focus group on CNN the night of the debate, and saw how positive reactions to Obama were overall compared to McCain, then you would see race is probably an issue.

After many flatline reactions to McCain, and a substantial overly positive reaction to Obama, I still cant figure out how 15 of the 25 people would vote McCain if the election were today.

Is it a fair argument to say that to most Americans race is not an issue when the polls show that Obama gets the vote of 9 out of 10 blacks. I still haven't seen any proposal from Obama that is well explained enough to convince me as a voter that he'll fix the problems he says he'll address (the econmy, health care and the wars on Iraq, Afghanistan and terror. I'm still not convinced by McCain either, but at least he has presented proposals that are detailed enough to evaluate. Let's hope that in the next 4 weeks Obama and Biden explain fully what they'll do and how they'll do it without raising our taxes.

CNN viewers and readers should take a good look at how they express themselves on the comments to this article. As some readers were writting about Obama's well being, let's also hope that nothing happens to the McCains and the Palins given that the Democrats have made them out to be such nasty persons, racists, hate mongers, fanatics, dishonest, liars, etc. I'm sure there are enough crazy people out there reading and listening to those kind of comments and considering what they could do. The negativism is on both sides and should stop.

I certainly hope Obama becomes the next president of the USA. (Wish he was running for Prime Minister of Canada.

I heard John McCain on TV today put down the healthcare plan of Canada. He just does not get it. Barack and Hillary do!

I feel terribly for those how have to pay for health care in the USA. Although our plan is not perfect, sometimes waiting lists can be a issue, but when Canadians need health care, they get it. A doctors appt., surgery, diagnostics, we pick up the phone and make the appointment never worrying about payment. We are truly lucky. Say what you like Mr Cain, but Canadians are grateful for our health care system and hope one day Americans will have that same priviledge.

I think it is terrible how McCain, Sarah and now Cindy have conducted themselves. No class what so ever!

Obama/Biden – Simply put... I just trust them. They are real

Barac Obama is the ONLY HOPE for our nation at this point. For all of the sad little people who continue to cling to McCain, you are pitiful! Get real and get honest with yourselves and WAKE UP to how dangerous John McCain really is!!!

Obama has the temperament to be president, that's why people are looking past race. We need a steady hand, not an erratic one.

Obama has been much the gentlemen in his tv ads to say the least. He gets his jabs in, but doesn't do the overkill. McCain is anything but a gentlemen. He couldn't win the last time he ran for President, hopefully his record with that will stay the same.

Interviews with Palin are just like watching Tina Fey on SNL. They are twins. Palin just isn't that savy when it comes to politics. When you govern more polar bears than people...well you get the idea. I really thought after here failed interviews she would call it a day and jump a plane to Anchorage and say "forget it."

I have worked hard this election to sign up the young people that wouldn't normally vote. Its amazing how many did sign up. They are excited about being hopeful that Barack Obama will be the next president.

I can't imagine how overwhelming the job is going to be. 4 years is a blink in time considering what a hole our enconomy, health care and life in general to dig out of it. We send money to China for petes sake! Lets stop that! If all things that everyone wants doesn't get done in those 4 years, which would be virtually impossible, it will be considered a failure. Personally the last 8 years can't compare to any failures that the future holds. Patience and support... thats all we can give.

I need to know the truth about the followingand their relationships with Barack Obama:
ACORN
Saul Alinski
William Ayers
Franklin Raines
Pastor Wright
Rashid Khalidi
Raila Odingo
Once these are explained and proven to be non-issues, maybe i can vote for him.

When Sen. McCain accuses Sen. Obama of voting for earmarks or pork barrel votes, didn't McCain vote for the 700+180 billion dollar bailout/rescue package that has been reported to have earmarks or “pork” issues. I thought, "that one," Sen. McCain would absolutely not vote for these kinds of things and then name names. He forgot to name his own name.

Just so that people like Cindy in GA knows, not all of us from the deep south care about the color of Sen. Obama's skin. I am a senior white voter, and I have been in Sen Obama's camp since the 2004 Dem Convention. He is highly intelligent, charismatic, calm, steady, a good family man, a born leader, and God knows we need him in these troubled times. As Christians, we should not judge him on his skin color, rather, if for nothing else, the hope and inspiration he is bringing to this country in the crisis we are in. Our country can't afford four more years of the same policies we have now, and we certainly can't afford any more of the allienation and ill-will from the rest of the world brought on by the current administration. America is a great nation, but we need the rest of the world, just as they need us, and a born respected leader can rebuild the world's faith and confidence in us again.

To Jan from Wood Dale IL
You say, " people tend to hear only the first part, but fail to hear the rest".
So my question to you is, if only the first part can be heard, how did you hear the last part?
The problem is, because of the generations of misinformation and mislabelling of the African-American's, this young man is a shock to the very core of America's historical characterization of African-American's.

If Obama doesn't win this election it will be a reflection of the level of hate and racism in the US which will be broadcasted to the world. Obama's lead should already be much greater than it is given the integrity and leadership we see from him compared with the sad fearful hate tactics we see from the McCain campaign.

have been a supporter of Obama from the beginning. 51 yrs. married and husband owns small business Like what he has planned for middle-class. He is willing to see our struggles, thats more than I can say about McCains ticket.
Just finished reading the article in Rolling Stone on John McCain, think more people should read all about this guy. He is out to win at all cost,and has lived his life that way for along time. Scary if you ask me.

it doesnt matter who gets elected
there will be no money to spend

This election was not really about RACE until the Obama kitchen cooked it up – knowing the obvious – they played the RACE Card, as in any game play you do what you can and use whatever to your advantage. This presidential race was and still is about real leadership, real qualifications, real guts and real courage. The democrats really trumped up RACE by the direction and guidance of the democratic good ol'boys who happen to have something in common with the republican good ol'boys their knees shook at the thought of a possible strong, qualified, dignified, intelligent, caring woman of power (NOT PALIN!). Thus, the easy manipulation to erase any blatant sexist manuverings as imaginative or hormonal flights of fancy and they reeled in the gullible mass so easily. There is plenty of negative brutal campaigning from both sides. McCain and Obama's people are so hungry for power it is nauseating seeing them do the mating dance for the American people and neither emerging as true leaders just dancers on a string. I feel sorry for us Americans, we have become a nation of sheeps...we are gullible and broke.

Let's encourage McLosers and Cindy to stop the insults, NOW.

This has nothing to do with skin color. It has everything to do with experience, judgement, and character. Obama has none of the above. McCain has them all. Wake up!

John McCain is so desperate that he is willing to divide this country with his hateful campaigning. He is declining in the polls because he is off message, his campaign strategy is failing, he lost two debates and he selected the wrong VP. What he is showing Americans is he will do anything to become President. This election is not about the Presidency ...it is about the people. This year the young, the old, the rich and the poor, blacks, whites, hispanics, asians, native americans and others are standing together and saying ENOUGH! We are taking back this country from the crooked politicians and greedy CEOs who want to make fast and easy money with no consideration of the Middle Class.

In eight years, Bush put us in the deepest deficit. Bush has looked the other way while bankers and Wall Street acted like bandits. Bush got us into a war and has spent our tax dollars on a war we should not be in. Do not say the Democrats tax and spend– Get you facts straight!!

If Joe is right – one wonderful outcome of this political season, even if he's not actually elected. On the one hand a hopeful sign of the intelligence, basic fairness, & collective maturation in values of our uniquely American culture. On the other hand a sad note that a non-white person's ethnicity & skin color still have to "recede" over time as they become known by their words and actions for who they really are underneath their physical appearance. How long before that is no longer necessary......I'm 61, will I live to see that day?

I desire truth and also know what truth is. Thus my capacity has not been diminished along with millions of other Americans. I do not desire substance as the media portrays it to be. I understand substance to be that which I hope for, the evidence of things I have yet to see. The thing most odd, is that someone really thinks the American people at large are some how detered by the a “Lipstick on a Pig” comment or "Botox for Biden" when we have not been. This election will come and go just like Jimmy Carters but God help either candidate in 2008 that believes that "government by the people and for the people" has perished from the face of the earth for they will find their terms short lived as well. Americans don't care about how much a new President says he knows until they know and see how much he truely cares for those he governs.

You are about to vote for Obama's Socialism/Marxism and the government is going to be all up into your business. It is a sad sad day when the people of American stop being free and have to live under the Socialism this man will bring to the country.

I also find it ironic that it is okay for Obama and his croonies and the MSM (CNN=Obama CNN) can go out and find all the dirty stuff they can on Sarah Palin and bring it up over and over...but it is not alright to do that to Mr. Precious Obama.

Anderson Cooper and CNN. I am a 51 year ago American, I am not African, I am 100% American, And I am very fearful of the state of the McCain / Palin reallies they are stirring racism and hatered like I have never since before this country needs to get together and not to be divided by the by the Republican Canidates and no one is telling them what they are doing is very dangerous. It needs to stop.talk about the issues and how they can fix them .

Has everyone forgotten to look closely at what Obama has said? His plan to MAKE everyone have health care is the death of this country. As a small buisness owner there is NO way I can insure all my employees, I will have to shut my buisiness doors. Over 70% of this country either owns or works for a small buisiness- will this happen to them also? If Obama is President, Healthcare for all= no jobs, no small buisiness, no economy, complete country shut down. What will life be like for kids? PEOPLE WAKE UP!

John McCain has shown himself to be anything but consistent, but in a negative way. Now his wife is willing to use on of their own kids in their political desperation to paint Obama as unpatriotic. Before the year of the surge, how does the McCains justify the deaths of all those other Americans? The Republican party has stopped to the lowest levels of dishonorable and unimaginable depths of scum, and McCain is "at the helm" as he always likes to throw in his references to his self-glorified military service. The next time McCain talks about deregulation, Obama needs to remind him that there is a difference between deregulation and negligence, the kind of negligence on the part of the FDA that endangered almost every child in America; how are food is tainted. McCain is the most embarassing candidate ever (even worse than Bush) and his wife shows no tact or demonstration that she's in any more touch with the rest of us than her husband. Sarah Palin is a joke and unworthy to even hold the office of Mayor.

How many of you have been in front of a crowd? The speakers have nothing to do with the excitement or quietness of a crowd before they step on the stage. Who knows maybe the Obama supporters are in the crowds as well. One outburst at the right time can explode. What the politicians do to control the crowd should be what we focus on.

The great Martin Luther King said" we shall overcome some day" and finally I'll be able to witness a remarkable feat I never thought i would see in my lifetime. It's not about colour and should never be,Obama is Beating John McCain to every punch with wisdom and understanding. KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK BARACK AND JOE.

Yep, his race to the white house will come to a swift halt when the DOJ discovers he is the leader of the biggest voter fraud organization in our history, ACORN; barney franks says no fed money goes to ACORN, franks should be on the comedy network. Obama. himself, has put nearly a $1 million into ACORN; they are being investigated in 8 states for registering dead people and people that never existed. They hire people to fill out voter registration cards for the same person over and over.
Even CNN has admitted not wanting to embarrass obama.

For those who think that McCain will be bring change after he clearly follows and believe in Bush, then you clearly have not been paying attention. If someone can be as disrespectful in the matter of not stopping hatred or vulgar comments at their speeches then what does that tell everyone. For those who have enjoyed the last 8 years in America I can see what mind set you have but for those of us who have been affected and are sick and tired of it, it's time to make a change.

McCain/Palin is not the right choice in my eyes because if they are not speaking out on the racisim that is present then to me they cannot be trusted. It's understandable that their are some people were raised in a racist environment but times have truley changed and it's time for a change in our leaders. Can't blame the democrats for everything.

Question? So why was it easy for people to accept Arnold schwarzenegger as the governor of California, who is a naturalized citizen than Obama who was born on the soil and one of his parents is American? O I know! Arnold is white and Obama is not...

This is ridiculous. Race doesn't have a thing to do with it, for me. It's all about the issues, the past performance of the candidates, and their belief system. If you REALLY believe that your taxes are going to actually be decreased, you really haven't been paying much attention the last twenty years. Obama wants health care for every individual. How do you think he'll pay for this? The answer is: YOUR taxes. I guess I'm different. I'd rather decide what to do with MY money than have the government spend it for me. However, if you're in the demographic that doesn't have to pay taxes because of your income situation, I can see how you'd jump in line for more free government hand-outs. Health care is only one issue I can bring up and I'll leave it at that. The more rights/responsibilities you hand over to the government, the less decision-making ability you'll have. I don't want to insult anyone on here, I'm just pointing out a different perspective. I hope you'll respect my views and take them into consideration.

Thank you.

Very Good Words from all above me.. I read a story last night on the blogger page about Michele from a gal who talked about a young man in an airport who was waiting for a flight.. The person in front of him needed money for baggage or something and he ended up paying this for them.. she said she so relieved and would reimburse as sonn as she got home..which she did.. she said the young man was Barack Obama.. I just wish you all could find the story and do a follow up or something.. he needs a little good pub to balance out all the negativity

It is both shameful and sinful the sick mentality of Palin a confessed believer in GOD and McCains poisonous attacks on Barrack and this country. They are leading this country 50 years backwards without realizing that all Americans are much wiser and stronger mentally. The blood with be on there hands if violence of race and hatred breakout in this country as a result of their sick mentaility and poisonous tactics. Palin is power hungry and evil and McCain is deseparate. Neither really gives a good hoot about the American people.

I agree with Susan .... when I read his race is receeding, I thought you meant Obama's lead in the polls not his skin color. It made me giggle. I grew up in a desegregated public school district, went to college in now live in a city. When I look at a Republican rally, I don't know where that place is. I have never been there. (Thank God!)

Debate

Obama and McCain, is going to have a debate,
Hopefully it;s not late.
To know who the best, Obama is a Democrate, and McCain is a Republican.
Their views are different, but is this country ready?
To have a young and fresh ideas, or is American's afraid to look beyond this?
Only time will tell, if our economic don't go to hell!
To vote right, is really out of sight.
So, please go out and vote, and don't gloat.
Make a dfferences, to our next President.
Let's not quarral, help change our world!

By Rose Loya

I am sorry, but anyone, who has lost money in the last couple of weeks with their stocks and bonds, or retirement funds, can not afford to vote for Obama. He wants to raise your taxes on your dividends, Is he willing to give you back the money you lost, before he raises your taxes? I don't think so. I am already paying for someone else's stupid mistakes, why should I have to pay more. No more taxes, means NO-OBAMA.

Obama is helping bring the best out of people, and McCain is bringing out the hate. God bless this great nation that we may get beyond anything.

Hi Anderson,

I realize that you guys are maybe trying to put the fears to rest about this race card being played but it's not working. Reading stories about how more people are looking past his tone of skin pales in contrast to the possibility of people being staged at Mccain/Palin rallies crying out "terrorist" and "kill him". If this WAS a white man these types of things wouldn't have been stood for and people would have immediately distanced themselves from the individuals that continue to plague and sicken us with these hateful words. And for the record, I am a black women who was well prepared to vote for RON PAUL.

America is tired of this mess, black and white alike. This is a sad day for everything that we preach to our children we've overcame and have been more tolerant of. Black people require no explanation as to their success, prestige or anything else. We KNOW as a race where we've been..however, as a collective consciousness of people here in the US we have a big problem, the elephant in the room. John Mccain should be removed from the presidential race as he nor Palin have denounced ANY of these comments being yelled from their crowd of supporters.
I will vote for Obama, not because he's black, but because he has enough sense not to play into this sick madness..him or his wife.

GROW UP AMERICA and pay attention to whose really doing what around you!

I laugh at those that don't believe a person character and past associations should be a factor.

How many of you think David Duke's past shouldn't be brought up if he were running for public office. He dis run in LA. and it was brought up and he lost as he should have. The same people that are knocking the republicans would be out in the streets threatening war and revolution if David Duke's past was kept quiet.

Because of the nutty left, most people who don't intend to vote for Obama will not admit it and/or lie when asked for fear of being called a racist. Not beacause they are racist. This election will come down to race, but it will be because there is a beleif that a man that has had the associations that Obama has had must believe in alot of the racist rhetoric remarks made by them.

I would be willing to bet that the polls are not even close to what the final result will be. If I'm wrong will then I will just choose investments to protect my money from taxation and wait till the next time.

I respect African Americans as a race but I can not support a man, regardless of race, who will not tell the truth himself and when conforted with the truth calls another person names or says he/she is racist. The Democrats are the party 90% rersponsible for our economic chaos, but refused to do anything when confronted two years ago.
I have carefully researched the candidates and find Senator Obama lacking in so many areas. Yes, he is a good speaker but lacks integrity, experience, judgment and honesty. Far too many voters base their selection on a 30 second sound bite or what a person looks like. I simply do not feel Senator Obama connects with middle America working people or ideals.

It is my oppinion that if you actually listen to the words that Obama says you will hear the specifics youve been looking for. He has talked specifically on the economy: when elected president he will created jobs through the development of clean energies and which will spur on the markets. Why is this hard to grasp? Im not sure how this means he is avoiding the truth either, because to me this says he is confident. Confident that he will be the next president of the United States, and if that is the case why not be confident? Change is comming, lets embrace it.

I feel that it is the responsibility of Homeland Security and our Secret Service, FBI to put a stop to the McCain rhetoric. They are proving to be terrorist that are inciting acts of crime against American citizens and the Federal Government.

They should be censored because inciting racial attacks in 2008 will not be like 1965....so unless we are all safe...none of us is safe..

Can some one answer my question please? Barack Obama could really go after John McCain the same as he is attacking him, Why hasn’t Barack Obama Brought up the fact that John McCain Was one of last senators to hold out on making Martin Luther King Day a holiday in Arizona after the rest of the country agreed to it? Is John McCain a racist?

I have been waiting for months to hear one Obama supporter tell me what he has done in his political life. They just say he is for change!! That is the most ridiculous thing I have heard of. Sometime a few months after January, if he gets to be president, some of you will wake up to reality and see that you are going to be worse off than you can imagine...With the economy the way it is tanking, don't humor me and tell me you really believe in his promises.....if you do, I have some swamp land in Florida to sell you. By the way, tell your candidate to quit skirting the issues of his "connections" and answer the questions and quit flip flopping>>>

Race will always play a part in our American Elections. The good thing is that party is getting smaller. As we American get to know and understand each other we are finding out it's not so much about the color of your skin and it is about what you stand for. Obama has ran as the people President. McCain has run as a man who wants to be President so bad that he would do anything and say anything to get it. I see him as a very dangerous man someone who will only hurt this countries standing more in the long run.

Vote For Change. We need it!!

The only changes you will have with Obama is the 1st and 2nd ammendments, and Higher taxes. Not the change Im looking for.

Cindy,

The truth is never revealed in a single short platitude.

The fact that Obama needs to speak about an issue and explain his viewpoint is a positive and not a negative.

Short little platitudes are often flawed ploys to persuade a listener without actually considering the deeper issues. The sad fact is that it works so often.

There is nothing wrong with using our brains... God must have given them to us for something, right?

Race seems to prevail over judgement in this country and this no-doubt has been our legacy. This is evidenced by history and reflected in the tactics of the McCain/Palin campaign in their attempts to redefine who Senator Obama is.

Power, Wealth and Privilege are never willingly relinquished; they are taken. The old guard, The old ideals; are struggling to maintain and will go to great lengths to do so. Race is everything in this race. It's truely sad to see the GOP in the status qou's reactions to their own failures.

I hope we make history in Nov., not by electing the first african-american president, (that would deeply please the media), but by choosing a Truly, Truly qualified man for the job.

Please...for my sake.

I get this feeling that all the people who have rose up with violence and hateful remarks during the McCain/Palin rallies have already ended up with their names on some sort of list Keep on rallying, the list is getting bigger.

I'm a lifelong Republican voter. Not this time. I am not sure why these HATE rallys are being allowed. McCain has lost his mind, or maybe he always thought it was OK to act that way. The Alaskan Independence party has ties to southern white supremist groups. Can we ask Todd Palin about that? Their entire campaign should be shut down.

McCain needs to realize if he insites riots, the American people will rise up against him. We in the South know about rising up and we will, but not in the way McCain thinks. Senator Obama has my support and is the man I will vote and fight for.

Curtis Wimer
Staunton, Virginia

Take a look at John McCains face when confronted with racist and angry hecklers at his rallies,
i don't think he realizes the magnitude of his decision to not put a halt to negative and dirty politics by his running mate Sarah Palin and others ....
Dividing America racially sets it back decades,
decades that cannot be relived for the obvious reasons.
WE are all in this TOGETHER,
the GREATEST EXPERIMENT in the history of mankind the mixing of many races and cultures in one country, under one flag with one goal
FREEDOM , so as the world watches we must decide to end RACISM and think and act as one we have bigger issues ....

I'm not thrilled with having the choices we have in our Presidential candidates. Personally, I think anyone in current office should not be allowed to spend 2 years running for another office. It is not possible for them to be paid to the do the job the people elected him/her to do in the first place. I like McCain more than I like Obama, but his age is a factor I cannot get past. I cannot see Palin running the country. There is something I don't trust about Obama. I think it has a lot to do with the fact that he joined the Senate in late 2004 and effectively declared his candidacy for the Presidency 2 years later in early 2007. He has not done anything to earn my trust.

I am so proud of Obama. First, because he is an intelligent afro-american male. Who would have ever thought this would happen in our lifetime? Obama is so poised, calm, and level-headed in his character. He is the best man for this time. McCain is old and stuck on the war. He does not know how to come down to the level of real common American people. He and wife Cindy( a vogue want-a-be) are rich. They are not worried about us. Obama is a normal man who came from the real world. He relates. Michelle is his help mate in the real sense of the word. They compliment each other and together will be able to run this country with the help of the Lord. It is so time for a change and Obama is the man to bring it!

I really hope we are living in 2008 and not 1960's and back. I hope we did get past racism in our country. Of course, we still have the Palin's and McCain's out here stirring up racial trouble. McCain needs to ask himself, just what if one of these knock-head, hatred mongrols decide it's time for them to do something to put a stop to Obama? If someone gets hurt or just maybe killed, Can you live with yourself McCain? Knowing McCain he will find a way to blame Obama. Stop the hatred John! You have lived through the ugly past of civil rights era and living in the south, you know the hatred that came from this era. Don't bring it back. You've lived your life. Let the younger generation live amongst each other in peace and without the hatred that you are bringing back.

Isn't McCain's hairline receding as well?

I am deeply saddened and concerned with the direction this election is heading. The beauty of democracy is our right to choose, yet the McCain/Palin camp decided that our choice should be based on hateful words and by getting the masses all worked up with racism and hatred. I am very afraid that something really bad is going to happen. Our family has been a Republican family all our lives. After what we are witnessing, every family member is voting for the Obama/Biden ticket. Never have I ever seen such a cowardly act! The gutter politics taking place by McCain when people are hungry, losing their homes and have no money for retirement. I don't want to hear trash talking when my husband and I should be getting ready to retire but will not be able to.

When I listen to "kill him! he's a terrorist! I am not voting for the black boy!" I only get disgusted with the Republicans and for the first time in 58 years, we are voting Democrat. Those nasty words will not put the money back in my 401K! That's the conversation I would like to hear John McCain and Sarah Palin.

Its hard to believe that McCain/Palin are God fearing people. Just saying that a person can not change because of there past and I'm refering to Ayer's.Who appointed McCain/Palin as God to forgive anyone for there past. This is where the real hatred stem from. Mr Ayer's has payed for his sins just look at what he does for the people of that community.

His campaign is based on words... not on a proven track-record... if his words are not supported by facts, there’s nothing left but an empty blue suit. No experience; no judgment; no integrity; NO Obama.

.....One nation under GOD individsible withe Liberty and Justice for All. One day everyone will be judged by the "content of their character "and not the color of their skin!

No..............Obama said what he needed to say. There is something about being the messenger of bad news that is not good for the messenger. When he is President it will be different. If at the debate he told everyone that the economy was gonna get worse.........everyone would of looked negatively on the answer..........and negatively on Obama. He understands it's gonna get bad. He has a plan to help this country out of this mess. But, you gotta give him that chance..........

I for the first time in my life time have never been so intrigued by an election process. Barack Obama has lifted my spirits higher than anyone in politics that I can remember. I believe that America has come full circle to realize that our life and liberty has taken front stage. No more are we accepting the word of the old guard and treading lightly that all will be well, if we just hold on. Its time to move, its time for action, and we won't tolerate the same anymore. McCain for all is service to country, is not in touch with the American people. Race be damned, I want my children to know that "anyone" who works hard can become anything they want. Even President of the United States.

As someone from a multi-racial/ethnic/religion family, race has absolutely NOTHING to do with the way that I am voting. McCain supporter here! (Note...I didn't say Republican either, and definitely not Conservative!)

john mcsame is a very angry man !!!!!!!! OBAMA GOT CLASS!!!! i think is makes john mcsame mad cause his little digs dont get to him GO OBAMA and michelle will make a great first lady with class , hands down......

I am assuming this is strictly a Democratic party here. All I have to say is look at the ACORN accusations that could really turn the numbered voters around. Both parties are not using the best tactics, but I wish more of you would have more of and open mind. I have had some pretty nasty comments and hateful attitudes from Democrats. We will soon see how the latest ACORN situation plays out. Don't count your chickens before they hatch.

When Obama answered "NO", he was looking forward to bring back the economy to stability. If you were voting for McCain, then you might have answered "YES, it will get worse"...and you're ready to sacrifice the future of this country simply because you don't like the man on the other side.

Well, let's unravel this race issue for what it is. In the beginning the pundits help to propagate whether Barak was black enough.
Now, the secret is out many voters won't vote for a black man. I really think that we need to get our heads out of the sand and recognize that Barak is just as much anglo as he is african.
In fact I would venture to say that he is 50/50. It seems to me that he spent the majority of his young life growing up with his white grandparents as opposed to his African father. We talk about how we are shaped throughout life based on the relationships we have developed coming into adulthood. Barak feels us all because he has had the grand opportunity to walk in both worlds. Wake up America he is just like the rest of us AMERICAN.

My mom and I had an interesting conversation today regarding race, She is colored, I am negro, My neices & nephews over 35 are Afro-Americans, those under the age of 35 are African Americans. What difference does it really make at the end of the day we all have the distingushed right to be called Americans! Let's Go Americans and let's elect this Joshua to lead our nation for such a time is this. You feel me!

I was hopeful that CNN would be honest with the American public.
Why does it seem that one candidate can do no wrong and the other can do no right? Even the strategists from the same party can find nothing positive to say about a certain candidate. The strategists belittle the candidate.....age, mental status, anti-women.....yet what about the truth about the other candidate? Acorn contributions and Acorn attorney, Farakkhan calling him "The Messiah", Wright's "God d..... America, hired by unrepentant William Ayers with long term involvment: the truth....not attacks. When will we hear about this man's life? Why are so many trying to hide it? If he is so qualified, why the fear to answer legitimate questions?
Why such lopsided, prejudicial and irresponsible journalism? Why not answer all the questions fully and completely? There are a lot of facts and information that is purposely being withheld! Why? What kind of journalistic responsibility is this? Why is the emphasis on polls, even calling the election, weeks before the election has occurred? It's not over until the American people speak.....give them the truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth.

Can you Really Trust Obama at the Switch ?
More than kozy with Freddie, Fannie & Frank (culprits in the subprime meltdown)!!! More than Kozy with a Freaky, Racest, Hate Mongering Preacher ! More than Kozy with a Domestic Terrorist !!! More than Kozy with Acorn (culprits in the meltdown and Voter Fraud Central)!!! And has the audacity to tell the american people from the stump of his plans to socilize health care and raise taxes during economic peril.
Remember what your grand Parents said "Birds of a Feather Flock Together" Wake up America !!!! Do not let them steal our country !!!!

I think people will vote for who ever suites their particular hopes/views. People who run for office, run on a platform that they hope they can put into action once elected. But the reality of the world is once in office you do what's best for the country and your people in this case the American people.

As for Ayers if he was a terrorist he would be under arrest by now. If Obama was a terrorist do you really think he'd be allowed to run for president? Especially after 9/11. Get real people.

This is the first politician in a very long while that has integrity and real moral values. Have you read his books? What he is saying is not just capaign rhetoric – this is really what he believes.

I read that one comment with sadness that asked why it takes 4 times for him to explain something – I think its because 1) he never tries to condescend, so begins at his own intelligence/experience level, then realizes he needs to explain again at a simpler level so that everyone can understand and 2) it seems like the American people need to hear things more than once to really get what he's talking about.

He is going to change Washington – but we all need to help him do that – we all need to elect Congressmen and women who will not just play the old (ridiculous) earmarking games and kowtow to lobbyists – but who have integrity too.

On the other hand, he has to be somewhat political in order to run this country- he can't come out and say that the economy is totally in the pits and getting worse. Capitalist economies are based on confidence! And he had to vote for the rescue bill (as did McCain) even though the bill had more absurd earmarks than I've ever heard mention – wooden arrows, rum in Puerto Rico, wool... Time was running out. (What I don't get is how the senators and representatives that insisted on those earmarks in order to vote for the bill can ever live with themselves. Talk about shallow!)

Obama has had my vote since day one of the campaign. Although I respect Hillary and the experience she has, I always feel like her own interests trump the country's best interests in her decisions.

I am a white working woman and I am scared everytime when I watch the McCain/Palin campaign. It looks like a KKK meeting with no colored people around. It's ashame that they are now using this low tactic to get the votes – .RACE I got more scared when someone said Palin will come back in the future. Knowing that there are still someone like McCain and Palin around, it gives me a chill to finally know that America is still not a melting pot. I pray everyday that they will they will lose this election. All these attacks on Obama, it really tells you McCain/Palin are not a person with integrity. They only want to win the election and they care less about our country.

Race will unfortunately always play a factor. How did he get this far..How did we get here? For minorities, this is not an unfamiliar question.we work...we work at being parents, teachers, students, & every day professionals, often having to work 10x times harder than our counterparts in an attempt to ensure our rights. McCain & Palin need to take a step back and realize that America & Americans are not too far removed from the 50's, 60's & 70's.

Can we just take brief moment to ask ourselves some fundamental questions like;In this very trying period of the American history,can we afford to put the future of America into the hands of an untested,inexperienced Obama rather than a Mc cain that has been tested and trusted.The truth of the matter is that if Americans make another mistake in the choice of who we choose to lead our great country,we all are going to suffer the dire consequences...........................Fine we are in a recession,but what has Obama done in his entire political carrier that wuld give anyone the confidence that he can get us out of this mess......

I was undecided on who I was going to vote for, but to hear the racist massage McCain staff has been sending have changed my mind. I'm hurt and upset that in the year 2008 that we white have not changed over all the years. McCain white sheet is start to hang from his suite. He is 72 and he knows all to well how to hate, If Obama is not ready will there every be a black man ready. Are aren"t they allowed to be President we have messed it up for so long so what make you thank a Black Man can"t do it?

Obviously McCain has shown he can't handle leadership. Nobody running for president should have a campaign as immature and hateful as his. He may be a Maverick. You know what, Bush was a Maverick too. If you consider doing your own thing without regard for anyone else as being a Maverick, then Bush and McCain are both Mavericks. How's that working out for us? I've been to healthcare forums with all democrats, and nobody said anything bad about republicans. It was all about how we could help the country – the whole country republicans and democrats alike. The most insulting thing I ever heard Senator Obama say about McCain was that he was "out of touch". Senator Obama's rallies are about people coming from every background coming together to try to improve this nation and the world. McCain and Palin are just hate mongers, and I think that will not only cost them the race, but their political future.

McCain is insane and will give the people Bushes same.

For the majority of Americans Obama's race is receding. Unfortunately the McCain campaign wants to put race front and center again. They may not use the "N" word but McCain-Palin rallies are beginning to sound like lynch mobs.

I'm old enough to have been profoundly affected by the assassinations of the 60's. McCain should reflect of THOSE 60's radicals besides whom Ayers pales in comparison.

I fear that if the McCain/Palin ticket keeps up their hate tactics. They will fracture our Nation. Our Nation will slip back 148 years.

It's to the point that I honestly cannot see how any informed,intelligent person is not for Obama. I am pretty open minded and willing to hear both sides out. I have no political party, religious affiliations or anything tying me to either party or candidate. I am neither white nor black, or any mix of the two. I am not rich,but far from poor. I am a Veteran,having served in the U.S. Army Special Forces. I have combat experience in common with Mr. McCain. As far as I know, I don't have much of anything else in common with either candidate. During the Primaries I was leaning towards John McCain or Hillary Clinton. I did not know who Barack Obama was. The first thing that I recall ever hearing about him was at work, it was a racist and ignorant comment which I won't repeat here. Shortly thereafter, I received some pretty serious and perhaps permanent injuries. I was lucky enough to have bought a very good insurance policy against just these types of things. So, having a lot of time on my hands, I became interested in the Election. I have been reading and fact checking just about everything from day one. I am voting for Barack Obama and Joe Biden for many reasons. I would not vote for John McCain with any running mate, even less so with Sarah Palin. Mr.McCain has selected the most unqualified person EVER on a ticket of this magnitude. It's not the lack of experience, it's the lack of CAPACITY that worries me about her. It is painfully obvious that Mrs.Palin is not intellectually up to the job. I once had a great deal of respect for Mr.McCain but no longer. It appears by the manner in which he is campaigning that he has lost his self respect as well. Any pretense of John McCain being an honorable man is just that ,pretense. How sad for him that this is what he'll be remembered for, selling his soul to try to win the election. Even if the American people were stupid enough to fall for the smear tactics,what good would it do to win the Presidency and lose your self respect ?

I agree that McCain/Palin's campaign rallies have gotten out of hand.

I used to have respect for McCain but not anymore. He has become one of the most despicable, obnoxious, hateful candidates. He can't even control his own VP, how can he lead the country?

He says he can work across the aisle with Democrats. Who would want to work with him and the hateful Republicans that have been spreading their hate and lies about Obama.

We have an opportunity to elect someone who can bring peace and honor back to our country. He can work with other countries leaders.
I can't imagine McCain even getting 20,000 people to hear him talk in Berlin, much less 200,000. I doubt that they would want to hear Palin either. All she spues is hateful, viscious lies.

I can't wait for this election to be over. It has been way too long of an election.

Whereas Obama's race may be receding, his extreme liberal views and support structure is alive and kicking. The last time I checked, Ayers had white skin, but he is one of the most visable characters in Obama's ascent from local organiser to state and national politician. Anyone reading this should simply consider two things, research it and decide for yourself. You will find that Ayers is of the most deplorable and cowardly elements which ever populated the earth. Hiding behind his supposed intellect and elitist certifications (what liberals like to call unversity degrees and accreditation), he spews venom and plots to KILL U.S. CITIZENS IN COLD blood. What you will also find is that, after uncovering the lies Obama and camp have sold us about the true nature of their relationship, (for example their kids which are on average 25 years apart in age frequented school together), you will be left to deal with the standard excuse for Obama being associated with such figures as Ayers and Jeremiah Wright and that is as follows: Being a politician in Chicago you cannot help but associate with certain radical leftist elements. This is fair enough, but do we really want someone who is a spawn of this sort of politics and clearly beholden to them as President of the United States. If so, we will be turning the helm over to the most unseemly of groups, something that the US would not even do in the 1970's when it elected Nixon, Carter and eventually Reagan to President. What are we thinking. In the end, we must have it to good to allow ourselves to be duped so badly. Obama may be perfect for Chicago and perhaps even Illinois (although I cannot believe this either), but American needs much much much better.

For Mindy in Sunny California,

Well you need not look much further than Bill Ayers to find another murderer. I guess you may not consider those who "Weatherman" killed to be "great men". They were probably just like the rest of us, the boring average, or perhaps slightly above that. Please look into Mr. Ayers' history and consider that Obama is close friends and allies with many like him. I would hope you show the same concern for us simple folk as you do for those great figureheads who purport to stand for the simple folk. Once you have done this quick and simple analysis, please reconsider a vote for Obama which will do more to legitimise self-confessed and unrepentent murderers than any other action you could have ever taken.

What is the difference between the "realpolitik" lack of experience between Obama and Palin. Just one thing -> Temperament.

Obama has consistenly been cool, articulate and measured in his responses. While he may not have the "experience" that McCain has, the measure of the man is that he considers and rationalizes before he speaks. In contrast McCain has show an inclination to shoot from the hips.

In viewing the demogaugary that has become the McCain/Palin standard, I am left reflecting that in the face of 2 major wars, an economic crisis, fundamentalist demogaugary and shoot from the hips policies are exactly what we do not need.

I'll take measured rationality over passion in today's environment because we cannot afford to feel our way out of this: we need to think our way out.