It’s much more egregious than the Edwards observation. It’s clear that there is a massive class divide in the US to anyone with eyes, and that the interests of the very few wealthy and the very many “rest of us” are not necessarily in harmony.

It’s disquieting to see the “real america” line being touted, because deny as they will, the bottom line is that the split is a poorly coded racial comment. Look at the demographics of the towns being held up as examples of “real america.” It’s race-baiting disguised as rural pride, a terrifying kind of fascism.

I don’t think this is the real bad news for McCain. The real bad news is that he has no ground game. Plus, a little dirty secret, there is behind the scene infighting in the campaign, fighting which people are trying to keep quite. Fighting at the highest levels. If you look, you will find the story.

John,
Get real!! Palin was talking about middle class America that does all of the work and keeps this country running. You know good and well what she meant yet you just want something to harp on. Get over your liberal agenda and tell the real news and stop trying to make news up.

And if you don’t think that Obama is using dirty tactics and ads then you are blinded by your liberalism. He has spent twice as much on negative ads them McCain. So what John, does that tell you!? It tells me that Obama is nothing new, he is the same old politician trying to parade around in “new clothes” that aren’t there!

Cindy…Ga.

This is bad news for our country. These people want to win so bad that they will divide this country and revert us back to segregation!!
I am a REAL American and I will be voting for Obama. I urge people to vote for Obama so that we are not subject to this “REAL America” that McCain/Palin wants.

Do you want to know the real divide?
Take the SNL / Sedx in the City mind set
and then the American Family like the Palin who are in church on Sunday ( by church I mean: Temple, Mosque, Double Wide like St. Rita’s in Nanakuli, Hawaii )

John Edwards was actualy talking about himself.

As far as the haves and the have nots.

Example of the haves is John Edwards, he have plenty of money and a girl friend he was visiting early in the morning.

You remember when somebody recognized John Edwards he ran to the bathroom and try to hide. Yep, that is the guy.

They find out he has a girl friend on the side.

I remember when I was a kid hearing the term “melting pot” and not really understanding what it meant. I used to have a cartoon image in my head of a big bowl of soup with a bunch of cartoon people in it. Now I understand that being a ‘melting pot’ is what makes America great. I love walking down a city street and seeing all types of people, all types of restaurants and businessess – it’s wonderful, it’s America.

The McCain campaign doesn’t seem to realize that there are a whole lot of different people out here, and we all deserve a voice in our government. The Christian conservative right-wing is certainly entitled to their opinion, but they are not entitled to run the whole damn country.

I agree with the last statement on the post, regarding the McCain campaign betting on the past. Maybe McCain’s age has something to do with it. I don’t want to go back to the past. I don’t want to erase the progress we have made in race relations, and women’s issues. A win for the McCain campaign would send us back to 1960. It would divide the country into small clusters based on ethnicity, class, economic conditions, and religion. I don’t want to live like that.

If Sarah Palin is questioning Barack Obama and his supporters patriotism, then why Isn’t Todd Palin’s involvement with the Alaskan Independence party not an issue of patriotism?

The anger and frustration of the McCain campaign coninue to incite more hatred that might elevate to the level of violent attack to Obama and his supporters. This will bring us to the idea that Mccain’s most prominent legacy is the encouragement of the assaination of the first black President.

I’m curious why we aren’t hearing more about Palin’s affiliation with the Alaskan Independence Party and the fact that Todd Palin was once a member.

I couldn’t agree more. To call certain parts of the country “real America” is beyond my comprehension. Then they go on to defend their position. And on top of that, they have the audacity to call Obama anti-American and unpatriotic. Isn’t that like, um, what’s the phrase I’m looking for – pot calling the kettle black?!?! (Take or leave the pun)! It is shocking to hear them use such despicable words against Obama. Maybe they ought to campaign for POTRA and VPOTRA, NOT for POTUS and VPOTUS.

Sara Palin is scary! She scares me with her off the wall beliefs and drives. She needs to move out of where ever she lives and live in places of All America areas!

The GOP has to attempt to paint Obama and his supporters as ‘other’ to fuel their base and allow them to survive an Obama administration. That this kind of rhetoric can be seen as a call to revolution to the seriously unhinged is, to them, simply an unexpected and unfortunate coincidence. I’m expecting with some dread a rebirth of the hate-fueled ‘patriot’ militias and potentially more Tim McVeighs during Obama’s first term.

Bachman calling for investigation of Representatives holding what SHE thinks are “anti-American” views? Palin telinig the majority of the American polulace that they are not “real” Americans?

How quickly we forget history.

Joe McCarthy held this nation hostage with nothing but innuendo and guilt-by-association that started with sinmilar calls for investigations, similar “definitions” of who is (and byt extension, is not) a “real American”.

Let’s also not forget a very famous combination of political cunning and unlimited ambition and crowd-inciting rhetoric, who had been a mediochre Army corporal, and then had worked as a wallpaper-hanger, yet propagated soem of the most extensive violence and ethnic-cleansing the world has ever seen. We underestimate these people, and the potential dangers they pose, at out own risk.

I’m just curious. . . I live in a small town so am I pro-American? I think I just might like this. A pro-American voting for Obama/Biden! I was disappointed that I moved out of Bachmann’s district only because I won’t be able to cast a vote for her opponent. Was it a slip of the tongue? Listening to her trying to clerify made it sound even worse.

I have always thought that both republicans and democrats wish to improve our great land, it is how we get there that we differ on. Do we give money to the wealthy in hopes that it trickles down? Or do we give money to those who have little in hopes of it improving the economy and everyon’es way of life? A huge difference, but the desired outcome is the same. Everyone wants people to have a good life. Will family take care of family as how the republicans stand for? Or do want programs that will give tools to those who lack them? Another huge difference. We have got to understand that the American people want to make improvements for the next generation. Now if only we can actually have a real discussion!

Sarah Palin makes McCain realy look stupied , washington needs fresh and new,we tax payers are sick of beeing robbed ,they spend while we pay,are taxes are so hi now in chicago,and they still want us to pay more tax ,where does all this tax money go are roads are so bad with hooles and when it rains it floods every waer ,yeat Dailey keeps talking about higer taxes,when he first became mayor gave hes self a 40,000 pay increase i nevor voted for him agin.

Since Sarah Pallin joined the Republican ticket the address to Americans has turned much more divisive and she is clearly trying to divide the people (not folks) into catergories. The right-wing Christian fundamentalists of this country are doing a great disservice to the work of most Americans working to unite the country. And lets call them what they are Fundamentalists with a capital ‘F’. In 2004 these were the people who claimed to vote Democratic was unAmerican. America is slipping backwards and relying on blind faith instead of knowledge and education to make decisions. Stop the madness. People need to open their minds, not close them.

There are 2 Americas already. There are the ones who work hard and expect their deserves from their efforts and those who just want hand outs. That is the problem with America. The racial divide already falls in to those 2 categories.

This idealogy of there not being a divide is great, but is it reality?Senator Clinton raised the glass celing for women by making it as far as she did in the primary election. However, the fact that it is 2008 and her nomination is classified a first is a sign of the times. In saying that, I believe that a “glass celing” exists for the poor and middle class in America. It seems that being rich is a birth right or luck. So, what is the American dream? Being rich? Or is it just having enough to support your self and help those you love when hard times arise? It’s hard to say because I get by, but I can’t “bail out” family. Nor do I know what it is like to have enough money to not worry about it.

I agree that this ugly divisiveness has to stop. The truth is, that there is one America- The United States., but that there is within these United States a multitude of “other” Americas. If you ask 5 people in 5 different places in the same state, you are likely to get 5 different answers about what and where the “real” America is. It depends which side of the fence you are sitting on. I am a 5th generation native who has an independent view, but you will meet a 1st generation native who will have a Democratic, or Republican view. The differences that the Republicans are using to divide and alienate us, should be the diversity that makes us inherently American. This melting pot should blend us into a cohesive nation with a single purpose; to regain our place as a respected nation in the world, who has humanitarian goals that begin at home with our neediest citizens and residents, and spreads globally to aid other nations, and restores our credibility and national pride. One Love, One Nation, One World.

John McCain and his VP choice are despicable. They are dividing our country by encouraging talk of pro vs. anti Americanism. I have NEVER seen anything like this before- although it is very reminiscent of the McCarthy era. I am embarassed by their actions. This is certainly no way for a campaign to be run. John McCain has destroyed his image and is an embarassment to our country right now.

Bravo, Mr. Avlon!

How I wished just like you, most American voters can see and read in-between the lines of Sen. McCain and Gov. Palin’s campaign rhetorics. “Real America,”Real Virginia,” and “Pro-America” are just some of their terms that speak volumes of the candidates’ real, inner psyche and values. Buried somewhere in those words are clearly a “silent code of mutual understanding ” among racists and class separatists.

I also wish that these Republican supporters, especially those who do not individually earn $250,000 a year–and I suspect majority of Americans are, whether rural, suburban or city-folks–clearly understand that McCain and Palin do not necessarily have them in mind to fight and vouch for once they are elected into office! Fellow voters, please read not only the fine print, but also in-between the lines of what your candidates are saying!

Let us not just see and listen to the obvious, but also observe with all our senses those that are unseen. For example, did you notice how uneasy, irked (with a smirk) McCain was whenever Obama mentioned “middle class,” “health insurance for all,” and “spread the wealth?” That’s because these things do not fit and benefit his and Sarah Palin’s concept of a “Real and Pro-America.”

To those households and businesses earning less than $250,000 per annum, please be forewarned–know who your real knight in shining armor and lady-in-waiting are. Certainly, they are not Sir John and Lady Sarah!

This refrain of “real” american and the class and race war that it implies shows that the campaign has given up even the pretense of trying to win on real substance and real ideas. It is a dangerous campaign tactic that can do real damage to country.

When John McCain famously “repudiated” the remarks of the woman who referred to Obama as an Arab, John McCain said, “No, ma’am. He’s a decent family man [and] citizen that I just happen to have disagreements with on fundamental issues and that’s what this campaign’s all about. He’s not [an Arab].” It’s horrifying to me that a presidential candidate would imply that being a decent family man and being Arab could not be the same thing, and not only was he not questioned about it, he was heralded for it. Does he not know that we have Arab-Americans living as citizens within this country? The sentiments of excluding people as part of this nation because they don’t think they can earn their votes is getting absurd…Arabs, Muslims, City Residents, Chicagoans, Virginians in DC suburbs, etc. We have a huge image problem as a nation around the world and to openly declare remarks that are so laced with acceptance of anti-Arab sentiment, will not only divide us within, it will perpetuate that image beyond. If he wants to lead this nation he needs to be better than that.

I completely agree and this should be read by both sides of the political spectrum. Having opposing views is one thing but pitting Americans against each other is despicable politics and that in and of its self is anti-American. This is still the United States of America right?

“This is ugly and it has to stop.”?

Good luck with that. The Republicans are running the same negative divide and conquer campaign they’ve trotted out every election cycle since Willie Horton was promoted as Michael Dukakis’ running mate.

Interesting that it isn’t working this time. They may have to come up with some actual new ideas for 2012.

The negative campaigns of the past have worked well for the Republican Party ,but not this time. The tactics used by the party and the McCain campaign will backfire and rightfully so.
We are ALL AMERICANS and we will NOT be divided along any lines, whether racial or religious.
That belongs to the past and with an Obama victory we will bury it.

This election more than past elections I can remember has brought out the best and worst of us. It has been ignited by class, race, and stirred pots brought in by the candidates themselves. One party more than the other. As it does have a evil feel to it, it does tell you who you really are and what you really think. What we all need is a hope that we can all see differently but unite at a time when we must all do so.

Make no mistake, what we’re seeing in the rupturing of the GOP is a disaster for the whole world.
How so? Think about it this way … we’re all held captive by nasty evil alien enemy. Too strong and powerful for us, we have no way of escape. Another alien power stronger than our enemy manages to infiltrate his ranks and gave some among us the secret potion required to set us all free. Our enemy is enraged and goes to war against those with the potion. Pretty soon, they start loosing the potion and become ordinary prisoners like the rest of us … in fact, they are beginning to take on the characteristics of the enemy. Cry, the beloved planet … indeed.

How long do we have to look at Sarah Palin? This is the most craziest thing I have ever seen, She reminds me of that commercial of the young lady on a enterview and they ask her can she type and she answer No but I have pleasing personality, Do you take shorthand? No but I have a pleasing personality, Have you worked on a switch board? No but I have a pleasing personality. I know you people don’t really think this woman is all that . I guess you think if we watch her enough we’ll vote for them we are not that stupid. The reason the rating were so high is because we were waiting to see what crazy answer she would give next.

John McCain has fiddled with his moral compass so much that it looks like he now has it in backwards. Not only is he headed in the wrong direction, he may even be beyond redeemable. To use vitriotic and venomous language in a divisive strategy like the McCain campaign does is unpatriotic in itself, and definately NOT pro America. I am a 65 year old white woman who has lived in the south all of my life, and I thought that we had seen the last of this kind of politics. And, especially, with John McCain and Barack Obama running, I thought this election would be full of decency. Was I ever wrong! John McCain was an honorable man. Then he decided to pander to the extreme right wing of his party, and try to sow the seeds of divisiveness. How dishonorable!

Sarah Palin is responsible for dividing the United States of America with her divisive rhetoric. I am sick of it

John McCain and Sarah Palin are representatives of the past (him) and rural America (her). McCain continues to base most of what he says on how things were done years ago. Palin acts as though the people of the suburbs and cities don’t really count in her America. They both need to move into the 21st Century. We need leaders who are representative of a country that is more diverse than any other country in the world. These two people do not represent that diversity. Their newest tactics of false claims and negativism only shows how unethical they both can be. Win at all cost seems to be their mantra.

The world is watching this campaign and Sen Mccain in disbelief, as the Republican campaign seems willing to sink to any depth to win the election. They are showcasing the scum of politics. Sen McCain has a Jeckyl & Hyde personality – he solemnly says he does not endorse the innuendos and incindiary attacks on thre character of Sen Obama, whom he calls a decent man, while his surrogates heat up the divisive rhetoric and he grins. If this is an example of democracy, how do you expect to sell it to countries ruled by dictators and despots?

So, Obama calling people in more rural areas bitter is acceptable? (It was captured on video too!)
Read the democrat’s platform once. It is anti constitution to the core. Mr. Obama doesn’t seem to know what the constitution is. Trying to limit first and second amendment Rights every chance he gets. Come visit Illinois in the next two weeks if you want to see what Obama will do to this country!

Please, democrats whole platform is class warfare? Is that not divisive?

sounds like we are on the road to the second civil war, democratic government vs. republican government

I’m not going to say that name-calling and wedge issues are the only tools in the Republican bag of political tricks. But I think it is safe to say that they’ve been the most effective tools at their disposal for the last couple of decades.

They had a hard time getting “muslim” and “terrorist” to stick. So now they’re going with “socialist”. Disturbingly, it appears to be working.

This November we’ll find out whether the Democrats have finally found a candidate who can unite Americans faster than Republicans can divide them. I honestly don’t know whether to laugh or cry as I watch them doing their level best to stir up the worst in people under a banner that reads, “Country First”.

The audacity of the Mc Cain Camp is appaling and downright shamless.
lets divide America and conquer..!!
This is not 1842. Its 2008. It only shows small minded people with their small mindedness and small minded thoughts.
I am in Atlanta, guess what I am anti-America.
Palin needs some serious education and counseling.

I couldn’t agree more, I am african american I pay taxes and consider my self an up standing citizen . I am what is America. these statements have no place in our politics or in our country.

You’re absolutely right. The divisiveness must end; it’s tearing our country apart.

Maybe the mainstream media could lead the way by being equally as critical of Barak Hussein Obama – an inexperienced, first term senator – as they have of Sarah Palin, an inexperienced, first term governor.

Perhaps the mainstream media could publicize the increasing incidence of voter intimidation, where those with McCain-Palin bumper stickers on their cars find their cars vandalized or their trucks filled with dog feces. You might point out that the people performing these acts of voter intimidation consider themselves enlightened and inclusive of other points of view.

Maybe the mainstream media could start by applying its own rules to everyone equally, instead of those chosen few singled out for elevation or destruction.

I wish someone would ask Bachmann what exactly are “anti-American views”. Sounds like if you don’t agree with the Republicans, then they believe you have no right to be in this country. Maybe the GOP plans to lead another McCarthy-like witchhunt if they win the election.

It is about time someone displayed intellect and a knowledge of what has made this country by saying what is Mr. Avion has pointed out. If we don’t halt this progression of America into classes, groups, and so strongly divided because someone disagrees, we will finish off what has beeb built over the last two hundred years by the blood and sweat of rich, poor, people of other religous view points than your own. People we need to get along with differences or the news reports twenty years from now will be by european or “other” reporters detailing how Americans will be engaged in another civil war over how many angels can dance on the head of a pin.

We are all Americans, no matter where in the country we live. The constitution was written for all and not just a certain few. There are people in this country who would rather complain about how America works, and for those people either love America or leave it. This country has many flaws, but it is still the greatest country on this earth, and it is wonderful that we can voice our opinions without suffering severe consequences.Everywhere in this great land, no matter where in this country we may live, we will always consider our locale as God’s country, and there are many of these in this great country of ours, bonded together creates this great country which is ours.For all of us who have children in the military, we are especially proud of them, and of this wonderful nation.

So true. So pathetic what these morons will say to get elected

As if I didn’t have enough reasons to already not vote for any ticket that she is a part of. Palin can stay in the backwoods. Hopefully she is eaten by a bear. Take a clue from the Flyers game. Get out of mainstream politics Palin, we don’t want you.

Unfortunately it’s more than words. The policies that have been in place by a Republican Executive and (up to two years ago) Republican Congress have widened the gap between those who have because they had or Daddy had, and those who have no hope of getting it. The Republican Party has reached new lows this election insisting that anyone that does not agree with The Right Party line is somehow suspect and maybe even a traitor or terrorist. I didn’t think they could get any lower, but evidently they’ve been listening to Rush long enough that yes…they even got worse than they were before. God Bless ‘Em. They need it.

You had me on board until you said
“it draws on nativist and tribalist instincts that do not reflect the best of America, but the worst.”

From that point on I was offended…
I’m Native American, and being of this racial descent I know from my own family history that your idea of civilization was far worse then any of my people nativist and tribalist ways. Early American culture and society openly murdered and brutalized my ancestors. Pick up any news paper, for example the Denver Post of the 1800’s – early 1900’s and you’ll see blantant calls to citizens and government officials to kill all “redmen”.
I’ve always considered you an intelligent person and agree with most of your opinions, but you’ve lost some serious respect with this one.

I think Sarah Palin and John McCain are two idiots. They have knowledge but if you arent aware what to do with it, than whats the point. They are racist under the skin and they continue to show it day in and day out. How is Sarah Palin speaking on anything about Barak Obama. What does she stand for I have yet to hear, but that she is a follower. Everything she says is John McCain this and John McCain that, what is your input to this election. Just to look pretty is not enough, and it offended me as a woman voter to think I was voting her because she was a woman. This election has gotten on my last nerves and I will be glad when the winner is announced in 14 days. The back and forth, he does this and she does that. I am worried about can I keep my job(which took 2 years after receiving my degree), to paying the bills and keeping the lights on, and food for my children. As for the war, I will leave that alone, because only God can say how this government switched over night from Afgan. to Iraq. I remember the first missile boomed and then a few weeks later, Iraq was on our screens.

How awful to hear the nasty accusations now that it getting down to the bottom line to the deadline of Nov.4th.
Wake up America and listen to well educated candidates Barak Obama and his running mate Joe Biden. This country again needs well spoken, confident leaders for our future.

Definitely not John McCain who doesn’t seem to get it and the worst is his decision to choose a dumdy-didum woman who is manipulating with her charm and nothing else. Wake up America!!!!
Do you really want a hockey-mom for a President? I don’t think so.

Free voting is a privilage. Vote for Barrack Obama and Joe Biden
for President! Our country will be better off after what we have gone through in the last eight years someone who should never had been elected.

We should be terrified that the Republican Party would divide out country into real Americans and “others.” John McCain says he is the best qualified to lead. Is this showing his leadership skills? Selecting Palin as his running mate shows poor leadership as well.

If this was 1958 clearly Sen. McCain would have a distinct advantage over Sen. Obama. He has a huge knowledge base in dealing with communism, socialism, Cuban Missile Crisis, elitism and separatism and the Great Depression. He would be my first choice if this was 1958. We as a nation have conquered many of these social ills and yet, John McCain is campaigning as if we are in the heat of battle. He is attempting to wage a worker’s revolutionary war against socialism. One big problem, we have already fought that war. In fact, we have many programs that society benefits from such as Medicare, Medicaid, and our Educational system. We are a capitalistic country with sprinkles of socialized programs throughout. Move on the past is the past, but what have you done for me lately? It’s 2008!!

I am Republican voters that choose to go an independent but now will be voting for Obama. My decision was based on Gen. Powell remarks on Sunday and the negative direction our Great Country is heading. I am also concern about the Republican Party labeling Obama as a Socialist. If Obama is spreading the wealth around, what is wrong with that? Why then is McCain offering to buy mortgages and why did McCain and Obama backed our government with a 700 Billion Package to assist Wall Street Gangsters.

Our Politics have become a Big JOKE in the eyes of the rest of the World and I am afraid. I’m afraid that if McCain becomes our new president we will be further alienated by the rest of the World. McCain has already labeled the President of Russia a KGB.

Pres. Bush is a walk in the park compared to what McCain will bring. We voted for a jackass twice. If we vote for another; what does that makes us.

The divide is growing, as all of us in rural America are generalized into the catagories of “Hicks” and “Rednecks”. All parties involved are responsible, the Dems, and Republicans as well as the media. This generalization coupled with the concept that we as rural Americans are not intellectuals, is a wedge. We read the same books, and are given the same education and have al the same opportunities as the elite citizens of the coasts. Please consider this the next time any of your contributors to CNN use the term Hick or Redneck.

Being an immigrant of 11 years, all these comments by the Republicans is making me sick in the stomach. It goes straight against my faith in America.

These are precisely the kind of things that make people like me leave their countries and come America. Now America is becoming the like those countries.

“A house divided against itself cannot stand.” A. Lincoln, a Republican, on June 16, 1858, paraphrasing Christ in the New Testament. Likewise consider: “The handshake is stronger than the fist.” Old wisdom needed in these new times.

Sorry to burst your bubble but there are two Americas, the liberal America and the conservative America and never will the two meet. People are so divided in this country that all we share is a common language and animosity towards the other side. Our country is becoming more Balkanized with every election and until the political parties stop endorsing far left and far right candidates for our highest offices things will only continue to get worse.

If you don’t want this country split into three smaller countries, well, tough! You must be one of those quiche eaters from Hollywood, or maybe a loyal American still trying to save a country that died in 2000. Too bad! Bush has wrecked us forever. Balkanization and absorption by Canada is, as Todd Palin will tell you, our best long-range plan.

It started very simple “best of America”, “real Virginia”… What is next? “All animals are equal, but some animals are more equal than others.”?

You sound very naive. Politics is about social control, not truth. Polarized public dialog is a long-established foundation of politics (1000s of years). Basic recipe: make tautological pronouncements, then augment with emotionally-charged-yet-substance-free extensions that polarize the world into the two-kinds-of-people view, then you inflame antagonistic passions to create the illusion of unity and secure control as a figurehead. That is what politics is about; once control is established, truth/justice and lies/injustice are just two sides of the same steering wheel, and the driver has very wide margins of error before loss-of-control is a serious threat. (This was all taught in Sunday/Grammar School, if you’d have bothered to pay attention.)

The article states that the recent comments by the McCain-Palin campaign — the ones that divide the country into the real America vs the not real America, or the pro-America parts of the country vs the anti-America parts of the country, or the patriotic America vs the non-patriotic America — are equivalent to the John Edwards’ referring to two Americas during the primaries, meaning that the country has “Haves and Have-Nots.”

To equate the McCain-Palin campaign comments with what Edwards says is completely off the mark. Edwards was not belittling the Have-Nots. Quite the opposite. He clearly stated that he wanted to create opportunities to make the Have-Nots become more like the Haves, opportunities that would allow them to have a better life.

The divisions created by the McCain-Palin campaign is exactly the opposite. What Bachman, Pfotenhaur, Palin and the rest are saying is that there are large parts of America that are anti-American, unpatriotic and not the real America. Nothing could be more divisive and is, in fact, the polar opposite of what John Edwards said and meant when he talked about the “Two Americas”.

I have watched and listened to this campaign since the primaries began. Needless to say I have become more and more disturbed over the negative ads and comments made by the candidates. I am a registered republican but for the first time in my adult life I will be voting for a Democrat, Barack Obama. Colin Powell summed up my feeling so very well that I won’t even try to say it any differently that he did. Now is not the time for Americans to try to divide and conquer, we must stand united, we are in difficult times economically, politcally and especially in the worlds views of us. Please stop all these vicious attacks, keep with the issues and the challenges we face as a nation.
Thank you for listening, Judy

This is just scare tactics which divide. We should be ashamed of ourselves as a nation! Tisk, tisk!
We should be voting FOR a candidate not AGAINST someone!

you could not have said it better

p.s love your show

It’s my opinion that the rep are responsible for dividing the country. In this campaign they have been quick to use labels. It seems that they will say anything to win.

It’s about identity and power folks. Palin and her “real Americans” (the extension of a real America is to assume those living there are the only “real” Americans) want to feel powerful, to feel like they belong, and are on top of a heap. The best way to do that is to put down, exclude, and demean others. Anyone who has not been living in a cave knows this. It’s as old as social history. It becomes especially critical when large swaths of people feel scared, threatened, and angry- and all of that can be focused and directed to specific “other” people. I don’t want this country to echo pre WWII Germany, but it sure is heading that way. The GOP leaders, evangelical preachers, and uber-rich stoking fear and anger in their presentations encouraging citizens to blame other citizens for their feelings does NOT help.

The truth of the matter is divisive beliefs have been a big part of this countries past and present. Whether it be the treatment of minories, people with disabilities, sexual discrimination, less educated, poor or just people with less anything. There is a tendency to wrongly believe the other person is not quite as good in some way. This frame of thinking in my opinion tend to come from people who are registered Repubilicans. Just look at the South for example where racism and bigotry is alive and well, republican dominated. Look at the so called rich, upper class good ol boy clubs throughout America, republican dominated. Look at the party of big business and less likely to share for the common good, republicans. Having said this it is not suprising the Republicians Party is now coming out of the closet and showing their real colors.

I do not find this article helpful. It points fingers at the Republican tactics while justifying the Democratic tactics. Both party’s are equally responsible for this division, and articles like this only fire up Democrats more. What we need are both party’s engaged in dialogue on how to solve our serious problems. Not focusing on who is more responsible and who is less responsible for our current division.

Get-real America! Anyone knows that, McCain and Palin will make a great team. In A-L-A-S-K-A!!!! Seems they both like to have their hand’s in blood. McCain is “war” crazy. And, Palin is a sharp shooter! Apparently, death follows them wherever they go. From experience, we all know that, they like to criticise Obama. As well as more than half the population. ” Pro-America, as in, not interested in her dictation’s? Usually, if, you’re not for the person. You’re against them. Get over it, Palin. I’m against you. And, yes! I’m still American. Let’s get the opinion’s of women in Alaska. Where’s the story on this? I’m very interested in knowing what they do have to say about her.

A house divided against itself CANNOT stand! America’s greatness is in its diversity.

“…an America that is fundamentally divided and mutually incomprehensible, by values if not economics” is not simply an attitude or an analysis; it’s an objective reality that has become more pronounced each decade. Political campaigns actually perform a valuable service by throwing light upon the split, even as they attempt to exploit it.

Indeed – it is ugly and it should stop. And that we can step up and do our part to beat back bigotry of divisive politics with the stick of democracy and our first amendment rights is the true greatness of America.

Thank you for your article.

The truth of the matter is divisive beliefs have been a big part of this countries past and present. Whether it be the treatment of minories, people with disabilities, sexual discrimination, less educated, poor or just people with less anything. There is a tendency to wrongly believe the other person is not quite as good in some way. This frame of thinking in my opinion tend to come from people who are registered Republicans. Just look at the South for example where racism and bigotry is alive and well, republican dominated. Look at the so called rich, upper class good ol boy clubs throughout America, republican dominated. Look at the party of big business and less likely to share for the common good, republicans. Having said this it is not surprising the Republician Party is now coming out of the closet and showing their real colors.

It is just so sad that 2 of my friends died on 9-11 and my friends are fight this war and 1 died for America and because we live in NYC and not in a small town the Republican Party is saying we are not pro-America.. How sad is that

The reality is this…There ARE TWO AMERICAS! We try to ingore our differences about politics, religion, race, etc. and just coexist, but that isn’t reality. How can you be unified behind a president when your views and values are FUNDAMENTALLY different? There are fundamental issues that I have with the democratic party that I cannot rally behind. I will not support a democrat in the white house, period. There are democrats who feel the same way about republicans (not that we have a true republican candidate).

Whatever happens with this election will change our country forever…Unfortunately, I feel that it will divide us further, no matter how we try to sweep our differences under the rug.

Very well put and so true.

This is a powerful article. It’s very sad that we as Americans have come to this. We have lost what makes an American an American which ever president wins this election. In my opinion has a greater challenge then fixing our economic crisis. He has to fix our sprit and unity as a great country and people. We have lost sight of who we are. “United We Stand, Divided We Fall” Thanks CNN for keeping it honest, real, and unbias…

Warm Regards,
Concerned Citizen

Eldra Kendrick
Louisville Ky

I can’t believe the division that Sarah Palin is creating in this country. How many middle class Americans or their businesses are making over $250,000? People, this is your net income…..your taxes will not increase if you are below this level. If you are fortunate enough to make more than this, then you should be able to afford higher taxes. Isn’t that what our country is all about? Not evading taxes or finding loopholes in the system. I think America is so angry about the economy that they want someone to blame and she is feeding them enough lies so they begin to hate. This is not a Christian attitude.

I am appalled at the tenor our politics and public commentators have been taking. There is no place in our society for divisiveness. We are supposed to be the great melting pot, yet we have politicians like Palin and Bachmann, and public commentators like Beck, Hannity, Limbaugh, and Imus, and others of their ilk who seem to believe that that’s the way to appeal to the masses, that that’s the way to campaign and win. If this kind of thinking continues to permeate our culture and society, then we are truly doomed, and will no longer represent “with liberty and justice for all.”

And to think – people like Beck, Hannity, Limbaugh, and Imus actually make money to spew their narrow-minded bigotry in their Aggressive, Self-righteous, and Sarcastic manners. (Hey, it’s an acronym!)

Governor Palin, I invite you to visit small towns in Vermont where I live, or in neighboring New York or New Hampshire. We consider ourselves as ‘pro-American’, and very much ‘real Americans’. You would be surprised to find that the vast majority is voting the Democratic ticket. You might also be surprised by how many of these voters decided to go Democratic thanks to your insulting remark.

Republicans, spreading the word of division and hate, trying to undo so many of the fundamentals that make this country what it is.
And they try and question Obama’s patriotism?
Sickening.

A war strategy is “divide and conquer”.

Republican “activists” seem to be willing to accept the damage to our country, using that technique does, in thier efforts to “win” their war against non-Republicans.

I expect they (the Republican activists) would prefer our country to be named The United States of Republicans, since all of us Americans don’t qualify as “real” Americans or “pro” Americans.

its lack of positive education and understanding among americans about american values at schools and homes by teachers and parents and frankly by some relegious figures as well. collin powell mentioned durring his interview when he said “our greatest strength is in our unity and diversity”.i think we should inject this subject of “disadvantages of racism/hatered” at different levels of our schooling system especially at early stages. by doing so we will have a whole new subject that students will have to pass to move forward and also do assignments regarding this subject with the help of parents and family memebers from the childhood level of education.

Amen! I am so sick and tried of idots like Limbaugh, who only stir hate and divide in our country. Put Bay Buchanan in this category as well! This woman is just a Rush Limbaugh in a skirt.

Colin Powell is the most honorable man in the country and for his own party to come after him like they have, well it just shows you what these republicians are all about. I sincerely believe Obama will beat the McCain / Palin ticket by a landslide, even though they are throwing everything but the kitchen sink in this race.

Everybody that truly believes in this country, please put your country first, get out to vote and vote for Obama. Don’t take his lead for granted, the republicians are full of dirty tricks, we are not dealing with honorable people. The republicians have gone way to far even for them this election and they should be treated to a sound defeat in the polls. It’s time for the republician party to reorganize and take a good look at themselves and what they have become.

While I believe McCain was once an honorable man, his campaign has made him just another Bush politician for the extreme right. For those that think Obama is too far to the left, look again, he is more to the center, it’s just compared to McCain / Bush / Palin who are so far to the right anybody would look left.

Will “spreading the wealth” unite us then?

I’m for ONE TRUE AMERICA, which was started by small towns, small business, located on small main streets everywhere and that still exist today.

I believe in ONE TRUE AMERICA and NOT SOCIALISM AMERICA ……it, just does’nt not sound right does it.

WHICH SIDE ARE YOU ON?

Thank you.

I completely agree with you and I am sadly dissappointed and frankly scared when I hear some of these “Republican” rallies. Sarah Pailin for some reason is playing into the ignorance and insecurities of some people, and McCain, by letting it happen, is endorsing it.

I am Canadian, but whatever happens in the US affects the World. For now anyways. If you continue in this direction, it will inevitably bring about chaos.

Instead of moving forward, these politics are moving the nation backwards. Preying on basic tribal instincts.

What I wonder is: why? Is it inadvertent or deliberate?

Palin was searching for an adequate description of what she enjoyed about being on the trail; I don’t think that she really means there is a real America and a nonAmerica. I think she had an unfortunate ad hoc answer that people are now reading meanings into that originally were not there. I think we all need to calm down and quit looking for perceived insults and denigrations in this last 2 weeks of the campaign. This constant analysis of what Palin said is just as divisive as the unfortunate way she chose to express herself.

Annie Kate
Birmingham AL

Thank you for your words, hopefully they will help to mend this country of its divisiveness. It is not only the awareness of our thinking that must be recognised, but the adverse competitiveness that causes us all to be losers when we pit one against another.

Thanks for a great article. As an American in the melting pot of the free world, I am ashamed and embarrassed to see fellow Americans who have so much hatred in their hearts and disillusionment in their heads. It’s 2008. We do not need McPain to encourage division any further. Thank goodness the real decision is up to the electoral college. And, thanks to those–popular or not–who voice sound reasoning for the Obama-Biden ticket.

I want to live in the REAL America – the inclusive one; the one where my opinion matters just as much as yours; where my right to pursue happiness is just as important as yours; where speaking my mind freely is respected – by all; where openess and diversity is valued.
I want to live in the America created by the extraordinary vision of our founding fathers — the REAL America.

it is not republicans who are dividing the country, it is dems.
all those people who blame america first and have resentment against whites are supporting obama. he is the guy who did nothing for the coutry , but expects every thing from it. he has no love for america. you do not love this country if you mingle with people like jeremia wright and bill ayers and tony rezko.
this nation is in debt of brave men and women like john mccain. it is because of them i feel safe from terrorists.
john mccain paid to be the president wilth his blood and sweat many times over. obama has done nothing for america. he does not care about america at all.
zulfi

Is a real American anything like a real German in Hitler’s Germany? I sense a disturbance in the force.

What we are witnessing is the true heartbeat of the McCain-Palin team. McCain is not going to stop it because it is part of who he is. You cannot pick grapes from thorn bushes. A good tree produces good fruit and a bad tree brings forth bad corrupted fruit. McCain is a wolf in sheeps clothing. He has not just developed this heart condition, it has been his condition all the while. He is a false prophet pretending to be a nice sheep. I believe that the only solution to the wickedness that is being exposed is prayer. Human effort alone will not do it. On a more positive note I must say this had to be. The true heartbeat of this nation will be exposed for the purpose change for the better.

John Avlon’s article is spot-on. Over the past several election cycles, I’ve noticed that the core strategy seems to be to tap into base emotions as a means to stir enough passion to, not only vote for a certain party, but to vote regardless of potential obstacles (like inclement weather or long lines at the polling place). It’s the passionate voter that can be relied upon to vote and it seems that most campaign strategies are focused on building those passions in any way possible. Nationalism is one sure-fire way, but this election has opened opportunities for racism, classism, even xenophobia to some extent. Frankly, this country embarrasses me now. My only hope is that the next leader in the Oval Office has the wisdom and forebearing to lead this country away from the divisive direction past leaders have led us. Alas, at best we can only count on that wisdom for 4-8 years before we run the risk of another dolt moving-in and unraveling any gains. One step forward, two steps back.

I agree with John Avalon, in today’s trying times, there’s on place to be deviding this great country. The McCain campaign is very devisive, this is very ungly and I pray that it stops!

Dissent is patriotic. I grew up arguing with my hero and father who was a WWII Marine. During the Vietnam years, he put a bumper sticker on the family car that read “America, Love it or Leave it.” We fought long and hard, but eventually I persuaded him that those of us against certain policies of the government were obligated to protest.

Republicans like to wave the flag and claim patriotism as their own. I agree with Colin Powell. We must come together to make this nation a better one. Americans will always disagree, but the vehemence, the finger pointing, the baiting, must cease. Real Americans are supposed to wave their flag and protest injustice. We support our troops even if we don’t agree with the military action. This is patriotism in action.

Teddy Roosevelt once said, “To announce that there must be no criticism of the president, or that we are to stand by the president right or wrong, is not only unpatriotic and servile, but it is morally treasonable to the American public.” This helped sway Dad over.

It’s called an election. As election day gets closer, the mud gets thicker. I’m not offended if someone thinks I’m a “real American” or not. What matters to me is what I DO know:
1. I am an American.
2. This nation is broken. We have lost our sense of values, and common sense when it comes to our finances, both public and personal.
3. Leaders are paid by our taxes. If people don’t work, taxes don’t get paid.
4. We need a leader who puts America and Americans first. We need leaders who invest in America, not foreign countries.

John McCain and I have one thing in common (maybe two); we both served in the military for more than 20 years and would have gladly died for the country we served with honor. Today my love for the country continues and would gladly defend today at age 50, but more than anything else, i’m ashame of what McCain has allow to happen with his campaign. This historic election has caused the very best and the very worst in Americans to surface “racism”. And for anyone to deny it, I can only say your denial prepetuates this cancer that has divided and continues to chip away at what America stands for. I speak of American’s greatness in the present-tense because as ugly as things have gotten during this election season, this is still the greatest country on the planet. And for those who use fear, division, racism, lies, half-truths, and out and out hatred, I say to you, I am glad to have served in the U.S. Military for 23 years preserving those freedoms you abuse today, and would gladly do it again.

Perhaps the most enduring legacy of this republican campaign will be the assault on civil rights that is both frightening and appaling to most americans with a conscience. Is is simply shocking,

I am ashamed of these so-called Republican patriots who endorse
black people if they are Republican, but if they are different from
their biased views, they are BLACK! I hope that we come out of this
election intact. I am apalled at the hate shown by people like Palin,
Limbaugh, et al. John McCain has always been my idea of honorable,
but no more. If he wants to be president so badly that he forsakes
his core beliefs, he is pathetic.

You are not red states, nor blue states but the UNITED STATES OF AMERICA!! United you stand, divided you fall. Under a Obama/Biden ticket the USA will be united within its own borders and will help to unite other areas of the world that are in conflict now. Dont be fooled by the Republicans; John McCain is part of the old school, he is just too angry and eratic and his VP choice is just plain scary.

I am disgusted by the splitting of America. I recently even had a campaign flag stolen from my front yard. I did not join the United States Marine Corps and serve my country to protect only the rights of one political party, republican or democrat. I may not agree with what someone says but it is their right to say it. I am sadened that the memory of those who have fought and died for this county is being tarnished by the divisive philosophy of ignorance and hypocrisy. These politicians that spew this venom tarnish the foundation of our nation. May I remind them that the First Amendment of the Bill of Rights state:
“Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances.”

It is my right to disagree with my government and many have died for that right. Please stop destroying the memory and discrediting those who have died for this right!

I guess dividing Americans alongs the $250,000 mark doesn’t warrant a mention.

The election cannot come fast enough and be over. All this pro-America voter who could only vote for McCain has truly caused a division. I’m living in rural Michigan for the last month…it is dangerous. I was told there are KKK members in the nearby town…unreal. However, Obama signs have been disappearing, and someone had their American flag taken along with it. I now bring mine in at night. I was told there was a car with an Obama sticker on it that got painted black. An Halloween is coming….I’m moving the car closer to the house and bringing in the Obama signs and just praying nothing happens. Now there are campaign ads citing Obama not holding his hand over his heart when the (they say)National Athem was played, not wearing his flag pin, and taking a American flag off his plane and replacing it with an Obama emblem. Gee, that circulated in Florida 6 months ago! However, these racist rural groups are flamed further by ads like these and campaign rallies with Palin, etc. furthering such anti-American sentiment. I’m a child of the 60’s being in college then…I cannot believe I’m seeing this all again! I’m not sure anyone will be able to unite people who behave this extreme…but what about the other Republicans out there?

I couldn’t agree with this essay more. When did we stop thinking “we” and begin thinking of “us” and “them”? I am sickened by the kinds of statements that are being made. I think it is the labeling that is dangerous because it promotes that Us and Them mentality. The other thing that really bothers me that the news media did not make enough of a point about was John McCain’s answer to the lady who said she thought Barack Obama is an Arab…By saying that “no he’s not an Arab, he’s a good man” (that’s paraphrasing), it implies that there is something wrong with being Arab. Colin Powell was the only person who eloquently took issue with McCain’s response. I taught in an Islamic School and saw kids harrassed and made fun of because of their religion and “foreignness”and was constantly dismayed about it. We need to educate ourselves –Muslim, Arab, Iraqi, terrorist are not synonyms. I was so excited about the fact that both candidates promised a campaign without negative divisiveness and now I feel a heavy heart and saddened by what has happened. Negative ads that point out what one thinks is wrong about the other’s policies is fine, but attacking someone as not being “American enough” or patriotic goes beyond the pale. My estimation of McCain (someone I admired) has gone down immensely. We deserve better in a leader. I hope that Obama gets elected.

Although Mr. Avlon’s analysis is mostly accurate, it should be noted that, since America is indeed a “melting pot,” we become less diverse over time (because we are “melting” together.) Therefore, we cannot say that the Republicans are “betting on the past;” they are quite clearly, simply fear-mongering.

It may not be good leadership to say it, but there two very different value systems in America, held by most of elite America (media, government, the academy) and one held by most of main street Americans. One need only look to the huge audiences for conservative and religious radio and FOX news. There are also audiences for conservative Web sites, books and magazines.

The content of this alternative media goes well beyond disagreement with policy issues to address a different understanding of American values than most mainstream media and even the fundamental understanding of the Constitution and common law.

You may not like it, may say it less than ideal, but there you have it.

Thank you for echoing my feelings and those of my family and friends. I watch and hear this vitriol and a shiver of fear runs up my spine. No one who ACTUALLY puts “Country First” would utter the condescending, divisive words that are stoking the fires of hate around our nation. Perhaps “Win At All Costs” should be the slogan of McCain/Palin. Pundits keep talking about McCain’s honor, but that ship has sailed, folks. He would rather divide our country, stir up fear and loathing, than lose the election. And the machine behind him, from Palin to Schmidt and Davis (you too, Rove), are despicable in their scorched-earth strategy, one that doesn’t give a damn about the damage they’ve done to our nation. A divided country is one that will have more difficulty rising up from its many serious problems. Thanks a lot, Dividers.

Please this is a great country. do not divide us when we all are trying to stay together. I have question for Palin. Is Palin a Christian?
it look like this woman is going to destroy and divide this country if she gets to the White House. Believe if America elects Obama for President, this country will change forever and the entire world will see America briantly with new development. Also the racism will go down, that is the good this for the country.
pierre EHE

When my father come home after fighting in WWII, he said “no matter what you think, you have to treat every one as an equal, anything else is un-American”.

We confirm that every time we pledge alligiance to the flag, “…One Nation…”.

Those who would divide us are un-American. Real Americans believe in “One Nation”.

both parties are pulling the country apart. where are tip o’neil and ronald reagan and the good old boy network that understood the importance of compromise?

Wow– well said, John P. Avalon

Now, if only those “real Americans” would go back to schools to learn what the constitution is really about, and what it really means to be American, maybe we can find some common ground here.

There are two Americas, but it’s foolish to divide them simply among where people live. It’s cultural, and cultures defy physical boundaries. Some in America believe the answer to our ills is government, others believe it’s the root of our problems. Some demand universal health care, others find it laughable to trust government with such a task. Some think they entitled to the wealth of others, while others believe they are entitled to the fruit of their own labors. So when one boils it down, you have one side that believes in being self sufficient, self reliant, and independent from the nannying of the state. The other does not. The leftist notion that the slide toward socialism is “American” is a farce and insulting to the founding of this republic.

This report is great. How can a house divided stand? It cannot. American has always been place for people to rebuild their life. by chance some people become part part of a small commuity of people, and other’s like the glam of big cities. it’s does not change the fact that we are all blood. We have thoughts alike, we eat with the same type of mouth. But, we all all here to live. Some American’s tend to attack what they consider non-breeded Americans when the ecomony is bad, and when they want others to feel inferior. It’s a weakness that grow hatred. It’s a weakness that grow rapidly in some parts of this nation. The botton line is this, this nation has to regroup. We have sold ourselves to nations that are not people of God. The nation was temporary wealthly for doing it. Now everything this nation sold, in reagrds to our Beliefs, our ethics, or cultures, enjoyment had been sold for money. The same money that is now gone, or lost in investments and the stock market. When a nation place cards with the Satan, they always lose. Don’t divide the nation, or worst times are on the way. A nation called by God’s name should always honor His word. The Consitution, the Declaration of Independence, The Bill of Rights and Morals should always be the forforth of our decisions. Let America Be an Honest America! Let America stand for Americans first! When I say American’s I do not mean American born, but everyone that has become a citizen of this American and that want to honestly follow what it is to be Americna. When a person lives his country, he must leave the negative influences. Let freedom ring, but let us stay America.

I totally agree that we need unity now more than ever in America. Now you see why Colin Powel has gone to Obama. He is tired of the McCain/Palin rhetoric and so am I and probably a lot of other people.
Palin should be talking about how to solve problems instead of making them. She is no more qualified than the ordinary alley cat. I can’t even stand to hear her voice. McCain is just as bad and if they lose…..good enough. They should. I am a senior, white female who has gone through many elections but this one is absolutely the worse of the worse and therefore, I am voting for Obama. Not just because of that because he has offered solutions that only McCain/Palin have parroted and ridiculed. Get her off the streets! Remind McCain what he fought for and not just for freedom of speech. It is being abused.

I really believe it is time to allow our government to address the important issues like a crumbling economy, a failed foreign policy and a war that was based on lies. Churches and families have
stepped forward to deal with the social and moral issues for many decades, so our government needs to stay out of that. I have lived a long life now and can honestly say that no group or individual has ever tried to force me to have an abortion or to marry a homosexual,
Our Republican Party needs to keep it’s mind on government and out of everything else. Once they have mastered all of our government issues, then they can devote some time to trying to police my Religion and moral life.

I still believe in the UNITED STATES OF AMERICA not the divided states of america.

But did not the Democratic nominee state that things were different for BLACK America versus White America and that he was going to bring it together. And that Sunday is the Most segregated day .

All my life has been largely defending my blackness in a white suburb..but not to the whites but to my black relatives. they want it black so that they can get special treatment for the wrongs done to their parents and ancestors. I choose to rise above and possibly become President myself one day.

There are 2 Americas in my view and mostly caused by my own race.

My friends accept me but many of their parents do not because of how they feel treated by reverse prejudice.

I think we should turn the government over to 16-18 year olds and let us be our natural accepting selves.

It’s naive to think that this country will ever be inclusive of other races.
America tries to portray itself to other nations as the leader of the free world while it’s citizens are still shackled by injustice and hate.

I couldn’t agree more. If I hear another friend explain that he supports McCain because they ‘just don’t trust’ Obama, I’m going to puke. I wish we could have a campaign about the issues rather than painting opposing candidates with mean spirited and often misleading or deceitful personal attacks. We as Americans are better than this.

We are a “house divided”. We have been divided into competing groups, one against the other: Red v. Blue, Rich v. Poor, Black v. White, and in this division we have been utterly complicite. James Madison warned against the dangers of “faction” in “The Federalist”, that it would be one of our country’s greatest challenges. Agreeable disagreement seems a thing of the past, indeed to actually listen to an opposing view these days is seen by some as a sign of weakness.

The problem is that we are facing real problems that demand real leadership. We The People may no longer have the luxury to treat politics as a reality TV show. Basing our decisions upon irrational fears and a narcissistic desire to see ourselves in our candidates are indulgences we simply cannot afford. Maybe 10 years ago, not now.

Whoever wins this election is going to actually have to lead this nation in challenging times. How will that be accomplished if the candidates spend the next 2 weeks alienating roughly half of the country?

I hate to break Mr. Avlon’s bubble, but many would agree that there are no less than a myriad of Americas, depending on where you go and whom you talk to. This presidential election has done a lot to uncover “the real America”, by virtue of how people have responded to the candidates.

The McCain campaign does not have a set of consistent messages and a clear vision for this country and it’s role in the global arena like Obama’s campaign has, and McCain proved how reckless he can be when he chose Ms Palin as his running mate, a disastrous choice only uniting a conservative base that has always lacked understanding the strenghts of the diversy…

Remember Nixon’s silent majority,same folks different name. The republicans have used division as a tactic for years. In the 60’s this nation was almost as divided as it was in the Civil War. Bush used this tactic in 2 campaigns when relatively nationally unimportant issues like gay marriage and abortion were use to solidify the religious right and take the center of real issues like Iraq, Now the republicans in McCain raise up the old silent majority from the grave, focus on “patriotism” and Obama’s uniqueness from their America. They can’t mention race but out here in SW Virginia talk of Obama being,Muslim, the Antichrist, a socialism are really euphemisms for race. People out here are voting for Obama because he’s black. These are Pain’s people. Republicans seem to think that they have a monopoly on “patriotism”. Clinton gets impeached for sexual misconduct, but Bush lies to start a war and its patriotic. Kerry, a decorated Vietnam vet is “swift boated” but McCain, whose military record is scarred with misconduct, death, and accusations of being a traitor in Hanoi is left to perpetuate his sel made myth of heroism. Why? Division, in the final analysis, is not what we need in times of war and economic crisis.

Part of the reason why America is so divided is people obtain their news from extrememly bias new outlets. For example, liberal folks watch Keith Oberman and Rachel Maddow on MSNBC, while conservative americans only obtain their news from Sean Hannity and Bill O’Reilly on Fox. Both groups refuse to watch the other groups news programs. Same holds true for talk radio. So, this results in people only hearing one side of the story over and over again. ALL Americans must take the initiative to open their mind to a different view, then make a decision and form an opinion.

Equal responsibility must also be placed on media outlets and require journalists to engage in journalistic integrity – relaying a news story in an unbiased fashion, and allowing the viewers to make their own opinions.

Rachel Maddow, Keith Oberman, Sean Hannity, Bill O’Reilly, and the like all need to go back to Journalism School and learn to report FACT, not OPINION………….

When I was attending Florida State University in the late 90s, I was regularly treated to lectures on the evils of white males, or just whites in general, or Christians, and nobody ever called it divisive. In fact, this chopping up of people into various groups and focusing the ills of some while celebrating the other was considered healing and unifying.

Although I had done nothing wrong to anyone, I was simply born with a certain color skin and gender, I graduated feeling like I wasnt even part of teh same country as the self-described “healers”.
So, dont like the “two Americas” rhetoric? Boo hoo hoo.

“This is ugly and it has to stop.”
AMEN!

If the news media would do their job and report the facts about the candidates in this election – the emotion would subside. People are not stupid. So much is being covered up about Obama by the news media. If McCain had the shady connections as Obama – McCain would have been history a long time ago. The news media would have reported fully to the voters. Not so with Obama. They do not report and cover for this candidate. Obama is so far left – he cannot see the mainstream democrats in this country. Obama makes John Kennedy and Johnson appear to be republicans by today’s standards.

Because, as objective citizens of the world,they see McCain for what he truly is- An unwilling prisoner of an unpopular war who now thinks that he is entitled to the Presidency of our great country. My father was a WW2 vet who spent 3 years of his life in trenches all over Europe- McCain doesn’t measure up to him. My father was honest, intelligent and NEVER expected anything in return for his service to this country! Barack Obama will restore Americas’ Dignity and respect abroad and will help us pull ourselves out of the cesspool into which we’ve been thrown under Bushs’ “leadership”. By the way, for all you Rush Limbaugh groupies, this is not a racist endorsement- I am a Caucasian, middle class, working woman (RN)-and my family income is less than 250,000/yr. (I suppose that those of you voting for MCCain won’t mind being reminded that YOUR votes are all about race- that is, if we are to follow Limbaughs’ logic…

Bush ran on a platform of “real Americans = people who agree with me” and called people unpatriotic for having other opinions — as if it was anti-American to disagree. The 2008 RNC flashed images of “patriots” — always Republican — and made a sharp distinction between “us” and “them”. The McCain campaign’s rhetoric has largely been about “real Americans” versus “you other folks” who are equated with terrorists, socialists, Muslim (which is now a dirty word), blacks, liberals, and so on. Colin Powell was right on, just as Lincoln was: a house divided against itself cannot stand. Whereas Obama has consistently arguing for the UNITED STATES OF AMERICA for years (see his powerful 2004 DNC speech). His approach is desperately what this country needs, not more polarizing speech that encourages the nut jobs to spew and foment MORE hate and fear.

I am a real American. I work, contribute, pay lots of taxes, vote, believe in God, and care deeply about my country. That is precisely why I am voting for Obama and against Bachman.

Jennifer – Well said. It’s too bad more reasoning people don’t post on these boards. Thank you!

~ Amen !!!!!!!!!!! Beautifully stated and oh so true. It is a shame things seem to be progressing in this direction, and as you stated this does not represent the politics John McCain has fought for all his career…….well, it appears he condones them, as it’s his party spurring them on. Libel……Slander……and Spindoctoring. It’s no wonder so many Americans trust NO ONE and are worried about what “IF” the Republicans win the White House….will this all just get worse?. Sad, sad, sad…….but kudos to you on a great article.

There are two Americas already. In one America people believe in science, technology, progress. In another America people believe world is flat and Bush is a good President.

I’ve watched the last 8 years in quiet bereavement for a country I feel is lost. What no Islamic terrorist could do, the Bush-Rovian playbook has accomplished, making sure that differences between the Left and the Right becomes hatred, pure and simple. So sad that we worried all these years about radicals from other countries, when our own government has worked to divide and destroy from within. May God forgive us all.

This could be a choice between vice presidential candidates. McCain is old and has health problems and could die in office. Some redneck could assassinate Obama. I don’t know much about Biden but Palin scares me.

Having recently moved from a large metropolis to a small town, population of 3900, I am discouraged by what I see. I once believed that the small towns were where the best morality was taught, but I now find myself at odds with the narrow minded ideas that permeate this small community. Religious intolerance, cronyism and economic classes are much more exagerated here, and I find it disheartening.

Tthis is not what America is REALLY about.

So Palin says if I live in an urban or suburban area, I am not a real American? Excuse me, but MOST of the people (read: voters) of America live either in cities or suburbs. For Palin to imply that most of America is not the REAL America is just plain stupid and alienates most voters. I notice that she was thrilled to be on “Saturday Night Live,” which is produced in New York CITY and throw down a hockey puck at a game in the CITY of Philadelphia. While I love small towns and have friends who live in them as well as in cities and suburbs, I think ALL of us are REAL Americans. After what we have all been through with the divisive politics of the last eight years, I think we need to elect a president who has worked hard all his life instead of having things handed to him by virtue of his father’s and grandfather’s positions — a candidate whose extended family is the very embodiment of inclusion.

All I have to say….Alaska Independent Party….

What has come out of this election is very interesting and disturbing. If there was ever a time when America “all America” needed to pray, it is now.

I am not worried about the provisions that are made or need to be made by our government during this election or any election. What I am concerned about is the attitudes that have come out of this election. It seems to have been about race, gender, religion, and association (family) only to distract us from the real issues that matter such as health, war, education, and housing.

When I hear someone say this America and that America, I expect them to say north or south at the beginning not dividing the United States of America into sections of towns and counties. We are united, we must remember the saying a “house divide will fall”. and the saying “where there is unity there is strength”. We are the United States of America that is who we are and that is who we should be referred as, the United States of America. Let us vote and pray and when the election is over let us continue to pray for the United States of America that they will forever be united.

Of all the issues out there…after the economy, this issue troubles me the most. It astounds me that the party whose supporters shout U-S-A at every rally and calls itself Country First is the party whose members are continually speaking of the “good” the “real” the “pro” Americans. Makes me feel like I might BE one of those “anti” or “bad” or “fake” Americans, and I assure you I am not. My vote will never go to those who seek to divide us.

For the life of me, I can’t understand why any American would vote for Senator Obama concerning the economy. (Unless it is just for a hand-out) Overwhelmingly, the leaders of the American business community are extremely concerned over his economic policy proposals. Their thinking is that his policies are exactly opposite to what is needed to get our economy back on track.

Here are the two Americas I see:

“Those who work hard and expect their deserves from their efforts.”
and
Those who work hard and expect everyone to benefit from their actions.

One is working for a better America and one is working for themselves. One party is working for more for the individuals and the other is working for a better nation. When those with the least are given more it raises us all. I am proud to support soon to be President Barack Obama.

As a European and a conservative, I am astonished by the McCain/Palin campaign. I used to think McCain was a genuinely sincere politician but his decision to attach his campaign to, what in Europe would be regarded as the extreme right fringe, is more than disappointing.

However, I expect those who support Palin would tell me that it’s none of my business and they don’t care what others think. I’ll remember that next time I defend the US against those who try to run it down.

Sarah Palin was trying to lift the moral of the small towns. Your comment is trying to make it racial somehow. Shame on you!

There are two America’s, and there is certainly class warfare. It has been going on since 1981 through targeted tax cuts and trade policies, subsidies, and various other scams. The top layer of income has grown rapidly, while the rest of us stagnated and then declined in the last seven years.It has robbed our economy of the demand and consumption it needs. It has reduced the standard of living for most of us, while benefitting a few of us. The Republicans seem to be trying to split us along racial and cultural lines in order to convince some of us that we are like them, part of their group. This favor-the-wealthy policy was supposed to create jobs, stimulate the economy. Instead we get mergers and layoffs.

It’s insulting to compare Edwards’s two Americas theme to Palin’s statement about the real America. One is a simple (and obvious) observation about income inequality in this country, while the other is a nasty statement about the patriotism (or lack of) of those who, essentially, do not vote for Palin. I will give her the benefit of the doubt that it was just a poor choice of words, but to compare Edwards with this is despicable and shows a total lack of intelligence (or good faith). Not everything must be made to appear equivalent. This is just another of the zillions of useless analysis we get from the media that says “Both sides have done bad things! See, I am so independent! And smart!”

There is only ONE AMERICA. It is a truly a shame that our political process has come down to destroying the other party at all costs to win this election. Where is CIVILITY, RESPECT and TOLERANCE for all PEOPLE. If either candidate is running for the highest office in the land, it should be clear that they are both PATRIOTIC and committed to service. WHY is there even discussion about this. How are we being PERCEIVED by the world? Does ANYONE/CANDIDATE care? Senators McCain and Obama, let’s stick with the issues. AMERICA needs to get back to being a Smart, Intelligent and Inclusive Nation and thoroughly ignore all of this pettiness. ENOUGH!!! We have enough problems to deal with in the coming months. We need Honorable Debates. AMERCIA DESERVES BETTER THAN THIS.

Did anyone see the recent Palin Interview with??? on Wolf Blitzer just awhile ago? She was speaking on Joe Biden’s comments at his last rally. It is more than disturbing how she twisted, mis-quoted, disected and re-wrote to suit her needs, Joe Biden’s actual words! This woman needs to be stopped! She shouldn’t be allowed to get away with her lies and distortions of an honest man’s truth! It is totally unnerving to listen to her. She comes comes across as an Idiot on a Destroy and Conquer Mission! Conversaionally, Reputationally, and Politically this woman is truly dangerous and will single handedy destroy America in two short weeks if she should EVER get to the White House! Spine Chilling!

Are you serious? Why is it that the media always singles out Republicans for being “divisive”? I think creeping socialism, affirmative action, terrorist coddling, liberal hate smears, amnesty for illegal aliens, and partial birth abortion are the truly “divisive” issues in this campaign. And because I don’t swallow your liberal/socialist agenda, I’M DIVISIVE???

You are right about one thing. There are two Americas, and believe me, if we make the colossal mistake of electing Barack Obama….you’ll see division like you never dreamed of.

I’ve been a republican for 40 years!!! NO MORE–not after this awful, disgusting type of camphaigning and McCain’s pick of Palin!!!
God Bless Obama/Biden and the American Middle Class

Guess we all know by now that Sarah Palin hardly says anything useful. We should STOP making her same old rant as NEWS. I hope media just ignores things coming out of PALIN’s mouth until she says something useful or worthwhile to listen or read. I use to like McCain as person, but his choice of Palin goes beyond logic and does NOT reflect Country First. Please stop dividing this country for your personal benifit.

McCain/Palin are dividing this country with their negative campaigning. They are not uniters, but dividers and this country will divide more under McCain/Palin. They are for the wealthy. They want to help the rich by giving them tax cuts and that is conservatism but when the hard working people of this country(middle class) need tax cuts, they call it socialism. Obama has the very brightest people surrounding him(Colin Powell) for one. Obama is smart and he will have a big job ahead of him, but I think he is ready!!!!!!!Palin IS NOT.

Is it that hard to admit that both sides engage in negative tactics?

And is it that hard to stop all the “well, what about what THEY did” crap and to just point out how WRONG it all is?

And would it kill America, just for once, to have an election that actually focuses on ISSUES, not suppositions about the candidate’s children (Palin) or ancestors (Obama)?

Apparently, it IS that hard. Because then Americans would have to get past the talking points and the cute little soundbites that we latch onto and actually THINK about our vote. That’s just too much work these days.

I’m voting in November, but I’m disgusted by politics in general. This is why.

There seems to be no such thing as a civil political discussion any more.

Quite frankly, that simply frightens me.

There is not two Americas,
There is many many Americas, its all how you look at it. We are not divided. We are opinionated. It is good. We will all come together. The news media is the most divisive branch of any part of the americas.
They take any word, or gesture and agonize to interpret if it meant something other than what it meant. It is so sickening watching all news outlets on both sides.

I’m glad that I live in America! The Home of the Free and the Brave, every heart beats true to the “RED”, “WHITE” and “BLUE”. Let’s keep moving America away from small minds!

Vote Barack Obama08!!!

I can’t even bear to see or hear Palin on television, every time she comes on any channel I’m watching I change the channel as fast as I can, especially on CNN. I believe she and the Devil walk hand in hand and she is nothing but a cancer to the United States of America. I also belive a writer from Pa when he says we are on our way to a second civil war, democratic goverment vs. republican goverment. I hope it dosen’t get to the point where we have to take up arms against our own fellow americans and I believe thats where Palin and Mcain are takeing us. May God Bless America

GOD,,, HEAL OUR LAND! Never did I think that I would have to tell my three children some people will not like you because of the color of your skin but here it is 2008 and we are sitting at the dinner table every evening as a family in the deep south of MISSISSIPPI and my husband and I are praying that one day in this great country we call AMERICA!!! that our two sons,and daughter can live in a place that race does not matter,,,,oh how great that would be.

First we had blue states and red states, now we have anti-Americans and Flag Waving Americans. I hate typecastings like these. I consider myself to be an American. I don’t care what color my state is, I don’t like it being implied that because I live near a large city, that I could be anti-American, I just want the world and this wonderful country of ours to know that I am Proud to be an American.

You wrote: “Dividing our politics into Real Americans and anti-Americans ….. draws on nativist and tribalist instincts that do not reflect the best of America, but the worst.”

I agree. We have enjoyed relative stability and prosperity when we have succeeded in rising above tribal politics and have worked for the good of society as a whole.

The old saying, “Divide and conquer” is at the heart of McCain’s campaign. He and Palin are waging fear, pitting us against each other, fanning the flames of irrational knee-jerk reactions. It’s irresponsible and unworthy of a U.S. Senator.

And how is this different from any other election?
The whole point is to demonize your opponent by creating an US vs. THEM scenario.

The Democrats are just as guilty of feeding the divide as the Republicans are.
Some of the comments regarding Obama/Biden are completely uncalled for as are a majority of the comments made about McCain/Palin.

The Democrats are claiming the Republican party is full of nothing but hate, yet 99% of the comments written by Democrats are appaling.
Obama doesn’t need to go down the path of negative campaigning… his supporters are spewing more than enough hate on their own.

Just read the comments posted in this very blog.
Disgusting… every one of your are just as guilty of twisting the truth and making vile and hateful comments.

Hello pot… the kettle is calling you.

It is really sad to see how Palin & McCain are dividing this Country
in the most infamous ways, Americans are trying to go to about their business and create new technologies and new ways to improve our quality of life, new ways to create better choices for the American people and here we got this man McCain striving for separation,he served the country well, but alas he is not the only one one that has done it, how about all the American men and women that died in Iraq?, Republicans are uphold with this low class campaign, they are been absurdly represented and most of all the division that is creating Sarah Palin instigating racism, socialism, and all this luck of class rhetoric. Look at the people that goes to the her rallies, angry crowds getting fed on words that are misleading.
I am a white girl, but who cares whether I am black or white, this is a new generation of Americans that are ashamed with this implications of racial bias. Enough with this dividing our Country like this, we are one and we are all together in this.My little girl says to me, Mom being racist is tacky, I love my math teacher she is a colored lady and my Mommy when I am at the school. Bless her heart of gold, so like my little girl all of us had black teachers that we love and respect, black friends that we went to school with, how can we let this go on like this, can anybody tell me, please!

It’s so sad that McCain and Palin are diving our country with their rhetoric.
P.S. To all those people that make less than $250k and think their taxes are gonna go up with an Obama administration, let me remind you that Warren Buffet has endorsed Senator Obama!! I don’t know if you know that Mr. Buffet is one of the wealthiest person in the whole world, you would think if anybody be against paying higher taxes it would be him

Iam getting really worried as to where this country is going if McCain and Palin dont shut up .This country does not need to be divided.
All this hate does not need be their agenda.Go back to what ever rock you crawled out from under.,PALIN we dont need you and your buddy trying to pit us against each other.We have enough to worry about,taxes groceries school lunches,books,Icould go on but if your;e like me you know all that.{not Palin nor McCain]ALL THEY WORRY ABOUT IS WINNING

The early voting numbers are in and the Democrats are ahead of the Republicans.
This should be expected as the Republicans are at work and the Democrats are eagerly voting for more welfare in Obama’s United Socialist States of America.

It has amazed me how the republican party, the party of small government and high moral values has stood for this campaign. Not only has the McCain campaign found the worst fringe candidate to run as the vice president in Palin, they are now fragmenting their own party. It is nearly unrealistic that a well respected states person such as General Colin Powell, along standing republican and conservative would stand and denounce his own party, due to the very divisiveness of the campaign rhetoric. Second to Powell is Burnanke, viewing Obama as the better choice to lead this country.

Not to say that the Obama campaign has been any less negative, but at least the effort has not been to divide this country and create hatred.

As a republican, I can tell you I am disgusted. I just saw the incident that happened to the NC voters heckling and harassing voters is terrorism in itself. The exact thing our party is trying to stand up to. It is a violation of our constitution and is flat out UNAMERICAN.

This is a sad time in America. I want to vote for Mccain, but he needs to step up and stop this nonsense. Palin’s statements are doing nothing more than further dividing America. I don’t agree with Barack Obama on any of his views, I have never voted for a democrat, but I will vote for Obama if Mccain/Palin continue to divide this country.

Anderson Cooper, I agree with you! This divide is dangerous and it seems to be growing like a snow ball rolling down a large hill. With the Blogs and Americans all across the country reading things that upset them and then responding and back and forth, again and again, and the media’s minute by minute coverage of every off word spoken, it is like adding fuel to a building fire! It is frightening…

Will racism be the true down fall of the United States of America? Is this the only legacy we have to share with the world

It is with a very sad heart I watch daily just how devious some of our fellow countrymen really are. The Republicans are inciting racism in some blatant and then quiet ways every day due to fear! I am amazed how much racism is coming out of the woodwork like roaches in the cold weather come in to get warm…

It is as if there are Americans out there who feel they have allowed “unreal” Americans of color, to live, work, nurse, educate and have happy times with them, but when it comes to the other “unreal” Americans assisting in leading this country out of the mess it is in, and unto something better, that “real” America wishes to remind the “unreal” Americans that they are not and never will be truly at home here.

I wish they could pretend for a while that they have dignity and pride in where we ALL (AMERICANS) have come from and how far we have gone. How can the Republicans question an American’s “Americanism”, and measure it by their own standards?! Why are we going backing time to McCarthyism? Is this newly packaged racism this much a part of their souls? This is sick and so so divisive!

As a republican, I can tell you I am disgusted. I just saw the incident that happened to the NC voters heckling and harassing voters is terrorism in itself. The exact thing our party is trying to stand up to. It is a violation of our constitution and is flat out UNAMERICAN.

This is a sad time in America. I want to vote for Mccain, but he needs to step up and stop this nonsense. Palin’s statements are doing nothing more than further dividing America. I don’t agree with Barack Obama on any of his views, I have never voted for a democrat, but I will vote for Obama if Mccain/Palin continue to divide this country.

Tammy….GA

Sarah Palin scares me too….there is something just not right about her and her family…I just get a feeling of unease as to what really is the truth about them. It is obvious that John McCain is desperate and ready to do whatever it takes to get elected. I wonder if the republicans have some more wicked tactics right before or on election day like the last two presidential elections. I DO NOT trust them at all. Michelle Bachmann is an airhead who has managed to buy her way into office…if she gets elected again-I give up on Minnesotans. If she had a brain she would play with it. The republicans are usually money people who don’t like to spend money on anyone but themselves…in other words, greed, greed, greed. I think next time anyone questions Obama’s patriotism , they should be put on the FBI’s list of most wanted investigations. Kate from MN

Looking at the people sentiments today, t is very easy to realize that we the people in this nation has been submitted to the ploy of these cheap politicians who would try to divide us and conquer their political ambitions. Bush did the same thing and it was not he who failed, but the country did. The real problem is that we the people of this nation fall pray to these dirty tactics. Politicians use them because they know it works and we buy them. Palin and McCain now trying to divide us when everything else fail. This is the great republican strategy that even worked with Bush. They are clever to find some emotional reason to divide people. Do they loose in this game ? NO. They can afford whatever the outcome is. But it is we, the people who loose at the end. When the country falls, the burden falls on us. Not on those politicians who created it.

After 8 years of destruction to this nation, Bush will leave office soon. Did he loose ? NO. Did we loose ? Yes we did. Why ? Because we were stupid enough to buy into those divisive tactics of those cunning republicans.

Now we are at a cross road again. We the people of this country has a responsibility and a choice to make. We can all see on the judgement day on Nov. 4th whether those hypocratic political forces are able to trap us again in to this net of division.

Please note that the headquarters for the McCain campaign are located in Northern (Fake) Virginia. I was watching one of his people going on and on about how northern VA wasn’t the *real* Virginia with an Arlington, Va, sign right above her! Do they have no shame?

Only way for John McCain to win is to somehow portray Obama as someone who would tax the average folks and give it as welfare to the poor (read black people and immigrants). McCain has a chance to win only if he scapegoats the poor people who happen to be people of color as the culprit of all our problems. His only way is negative campaigning and smearing the heck out of Obama. Cant talk about economy, he was on the side of deregulation. Cant talk about failures of not being able to catch Osama and mess in Iraq. Cant talk about how his freind Bush who he voted with 90% of the time has reduced America’s prestige worldwide and created lots of enemies in the Arabia.

I also agree very much with the essay and it is a major reason why I am not voting for McCain (don’t know yet if I’m voting for Obama, but definitely not giving my vote to McCain). I fear though that the damage is already done and might be beyond repair. It’s been going on for years now, and is now hitting a fever pitch. Half the country hates the other half, and there’s some deep hatred here that I don’t think is going away. And the conservatives represented by Palin seem to be so vehement towards Barack Obama that electing him will probably just deepen their hatred. It’s their way or the highway; they’re not going to be open-minded to accept anything other than what they believe. So it may well get worse, and yes, I think eventually someone’s going to get killed.

We read a lot about the failures of the Bush administration, but this is one that isn’t brought up as much — instituting fear and division as an accepted political strategy. Thanks GWB and Karl Rove. Hope you’re enjoying what you help create.

Palin needs to shut up about Obama, she’s not one to handle foreign affairs either. But I do know McCain is a BUSH MADE OVER!!!!! WE DON’T NEED ANOTHER BUSH FOR OUR TROUBLED COUNTRY. Somebody that has all the houses he owns KNOWS NOTHING ABOUT THR POOR OR MIDDLE CLASS…. Go BACK TO YOUR HOMES, EAT YOUR STEAKS, ENJOY THE RICHES YOU HAVE and LEAVE THE RUNNING OF THIS COUNTRY TO A MAN THAT KNOWS WHAT IT IS TO BE POOR!!!!!

The problem with taking a high horse, if you are more susceptible to injurious falls.

For example, Sarah Palin talking about “real” Americans, and “pro-America”….while her husband is a sympathizer with the secessionist party in Alaska.

If the Obama campaign had nothing else to talk about, they’d be drawing attention to that, but fortunately, they are talking about their plans for our country….

Palin’s latest recanting shows she a seasoned liar, I mean politician.

Besides, what about her and Todd pallin’ around with terrorists and secessionists? Some of the speeches I’ve seen on internet video have been angry, hate-filled, and clearly anti-American. Where is the press on that?

The statement “America is great in large part because patriotism and nationalism are not the same thing. We are not a tribal culture, we are a melting pot – being a fully evolved American requires transcending our tribalism” is so true.

It’s not just about racism; we have polarized into “us vs them” when it comes to Democrat/Republican, conservative/liberal, rich/poor, and tolerance for religious differences and many other perspectives. Anyone who is not “us” is to be ridiculed and attacked as enemies of the state.

We are all Americans and we can never come to consensus with viewpoints like this.

Stop the attack ads, stop the hate-mongering. Foster understanding and respect. This starts with each of us, but our leaders in particular need to rise above the negativity and embrace the fact that people can disagree and still be patriotic Americans.

Personally I am really tired of being told how I feel and what I think. by people who don’t know anything about MY life.
I am a former elementary education teacher, stay at home mom, small business owner, wife of a teacher, who lives in South Eastern Idaho. Now for you Urban elists snicker now…huh Idaho.

But for those in my area of the world we have seen two worlds, a “real” one and a fabricated one, for years.

In my view there aren’t to many policticians left who live their lives with FULL integrity. They are willing to parse words and plans to make their “side” look good. I’d love to get rid of ALL of them and find men and women of principle. People who will actually say what they “really believe” verses what the think they should say to get the most votes.

It is naive for those who live in the urban parts of this country to EVER believe they will see the world the same way as someone who lives in rural areas. We DO have a different way of life, sometimes better- sometimes worse. And with that difference comes a different level of acceptance – sometimes good and sometimes not.

Senator Obama will not CHANGE that , he has no basis of where “we” come from. By the way neither does Senator McCain.

So where is our “hope”?

CINDY, GA – You are clueless to say the least.

Why is it that anytime you Republicans have someone disagree with you, you call them a “Liberal”. This shows just how messed up you Republicans are. You can’t have a debate about real issues, you can only label people as being ’something’ that you think has a negative connotation.

Stop carrying the GOP’s water for them. McCain doesn’t need your help, he’s a war hero for Gods sakes!

Mr. Mccain… please do something in your campaign that doesn’t involve rumor starting and nation dividing

You Obama supporters want so bad to punish someone for how you feel the country has been run for the last eight years that you accept everything that comes out of Obama or Bidden’s mouth. Obama has run a campaign just as nasty as or more than the McCain camp. Remember the add about McCain not being able to use his computer because his war injuries prevented him from using his arms very much. Or how bout the one ran on MSNBC that talked about how many times McCain has had skin cancer and could he last the whole term. If you Obama supporters want to blame someone for the state of the country right now blame yourselves. Where was all this support for Kerry in 04, if its there than Bush only has one term. Furthermore, this attitude of the Republican Party being the only ones to divide the country is stupid. This left wing holier than you, I’m smart and your a religious idiot attitude has did plenty of damage on its own.

Sarah Palin hasn’t said anything !!!!!! At least nothing that gives me a warm and fuzzy. All I see is hatred, rage, desperation, racism, redneck-ism in her eyes and when she speaks. And now that the McCain camp is saying that Colin Powell has slapped them in the face is just wrong. If he was for McCain, he would be the best thing since sliced bread. McCain’s pick for VP was just awful !!! His judgement is a clear display of bad judgement. I agree picking her has revived the base but it was a gamble that was a “sin against nature.”

I was an Independent, but the more I listen to this ill woman the more I lean Democratic. Someone gag her please !!!!

My view of the Republican party — a few smart people with emphasis on sound fiscal policies, self-reliance, personal freedom, etc. and millions of ignorant rednecks who know nothing about the rest of the world, are religious fanatics, can’t think for themselves, and are swayed like herds of sheep at the whims of the conservative leadership. It’s really pathetic. Semi-thoughtful conservatives are left to either vote with these sad people or choose someone like Obama. I think I’m going to write in Ron Paul.

Michele Bachmann is a monster. I can’t believe the Minnesota Republican party in that district nominated her for congress last election. Her opponent was politically inept in that election by the way which led to Bachmann’s victory so the democrats failed as well. She has no place representing Minnesota or any U.S. district. She is now an incumbent so the republican party will try to get her re-elected. The district in question is about 60% republican, but I hope they overcome that and vote her out Third Party, Democrat, Write in Republican I don’t care who wins just not her.

At least John Edwards was describing America as it actually is (and no, that’s not debatable, walk down my street any time and you see it) as opposed to implying that people with different views were somehow less patriotic or less American. I spent six years in the US Navy and have a progressive liberal view on governance. What does that make me, GOP?

McCain/Palin face an uphill battle coming off the last 8 Years of Bush and the economy spinning out of control. You add to that someone who is smooth and charismatic and a massive cult following – we will have a Democrat in office for four years trying to destroy business and raising taxes. In 2012 hopefully we will realize that we have made another mistake with our choice in president and then maybe things will get better.

WOW!
I see a lot of Palin crediting, let’s not forget she is only allowed to do what she seems to know.
Frankly, at this moment, she is only interwebs fodder and made a bigger star out of Tina Fey.
And she still has no idea what a V.P. does.

It is as simple as this. This media driven debate is what all you who believe in the divide wants to here. McCain is driven to divide the electorate to gain`an edge. Isn’t that politics. Obama makes comments like “They will say he doesn’t look like the guy on the dollar bill.” and the media some how spins the sympathetic Obama view. It’s all designed to sway, divide or whatever you want to call it. It. Both campaigns divide and claim to unite.

McCain is going to use his military uniform when he gets sworn into office, his military mind along with his temper aren’t exactly what
we need sitting in the white house; scares me what his military brain
would do, his negative campaign reminds me the one the German butcher run on basis of race, creating fear among the heart of Germany against Jewish people.His negative energy energized the masses to the point of cruelty, is this is what we want to happen here in America? going back to the dark ages? Romans killing Christians, Germans killing Jewish, whites killing blacks. Come on , look where we are ready to go to Mars, and explore the rest of the galaxy, please do not stop our future, i am so concern with all this crazy stuff having a vice presidential candidate that mocks the words said by her opponent, agitating the masses, creating the nest for the assassination of Senator Obama, is dangerous what this woman is doing, so cold blooded enough to send chills to my spine, let’s stop all of this now!.

It’s foolish to believe that the United States can survive forever. This nation was a grand experiment conjured up by a group of non-conformist dreamers.

I see a future where what is now the US being divided up into 3-5 separate countries. Whether Obama is elected or not, he and George Soros have started that ball rolling and there’ll be no stopping it.

I guess that, in some ways, the world will be a better place without military, financial, and cultural power being concentrated in one country.

I would really like to respond to Cindy’s comment. Palin was talking about middle class America that does all of the work and keeps this country running. OK, well if she’s so concerned about the middle class who mostly make under $250,000 a year then why not support Obama’st ax plan that would protect these hard working people from getting a tax raise. I just heard her say something about hardworking people and McCain’s tax plan. Was she saying that middle class america are not hardworkers? This woman is an idiot and so are you Cindy.

There are more than two americas there is millions of different americas, wach which needs to be represented at the federal level. Who do you think is going to protect the balanced interests of those groups, I know that it isn’t Palin. As much as I beleive that McCain genuinely cares about America, his time for helping the country improve its domestic and global standing has passed.

I do not ever remember an election that was so hate-filled and brought out the ugliest part of America. The predjudice that I have seen and heard because we FINALLY have an African American running for the highest office in the country is astounding. These ignorant uneducated bigots have totally forgotten or ignored the fact that Senator Obama’s mother was as white as they are and that he is a Christian, NOT a Muslim. I have a great deal of family in Canada and believe me when I say that it is embarassing to hear what they are thinking about the American public at this time. By the way Canada has socialist programs they are not a communist country! There seems to be a correlation between these two entities in the minds of some Americans. The people in Canada, no matter what the race or ecomonic standing have health care. That is something this country should strive to equal. If we are the greatest country in the world why are we letting the ones who need this care the most go untended? Finally I would like to ask a question of Mrs Palin. Could it POSSIBLY be that the parts of the country that are more “PRO_AMERICAN” are the parts that are voting Republican? How convenient for her and Senator McCain. I certainly would appreciate an attention to issues and less character assasination over the next two weeks. Thank you

I think when Palin said real and pro America, she was referring to those that agree with her and follow her lead. We already know that she is narrow-minded and has no use for anyone who disagrees with her. The thought of her being one step away from president scares the crap out of me.

Rob….

I assume by your statement that the ‘racial divide already falls in to those 2 categories’ of ‘the ones who work hard and expect their deserves from their efforts and those who just want hand outs’ is an implication that whites work hard and non whites want hand outs.

That’s ridiculous, but fortunately, based on these postings, you are in the minority.

I, along with virtually all African Americans and non whites that I know and see, work very hard. In addition, virtually all whites that I know also work very hard. So whichever way your insult was intended, it is without merit.

You need to evolve and figure out how to become part of this American adventure.

The truth is not much changes in America and particularly not in small towns. I grew up in a town of 200 in rural Texas in the 50’s.

These “real America” people are the descendants of the same people who spat upon me and called me names in the 60’s for wearing my hair a little longer than what they thought appropriate. I try not to think what they said and did to black people. I don’t know all the psychological reasons for it and nor do I understand why our country’s level of education, tollerances and understanding won’t grow after all these years. Maybe people just don’t have time to learn and improve themselves. That is what kept us in the cave for eons, we didn’t have time to grow our minds, only gather food.

I really don’t know what answer could fix this horrible problem. All I do know is from this campaign I see today that not much has changed in many, many years. Still the same closed mindedness and projected hate toward anyone or anything that is different, be it thoughts, looks or skin color.

A great article, at a great time as well.
We all are anxious and frightened and taking it out on one another.
We may not agree w/ a particular candidate/running mate’s views but that doesn’t give us the right to treat another blogger w/ disrespect. I’m glad we can get our views out there but I’m hoping we can be nicer to one another.
We all need one another. Democrats/Libertarians/Republicans/Independents
United We Stand.
God Bless America
Good luck to your candidate.