State of Change

Where Obama Stands

posted by Ari Berman on 08/05/2008 @ 12:13pm

There's been a lot of chatter in recent days about Barack Obama's standing in the polls and whether he's slipping against John McCain.

Pollster Nate Silver had a good analysis in the Los Angeles Times yesterday about "Why McCain is still in it." The gist: swing voters still perceive that McCain is a moderate, and thus he's been able to distance himself somewhat from the tarnished Republican brand. The challenge for Obama in the next three months will be to paint McCain as a Bush Republican who's out of touch with the problems facing millions of Americans.

Thus far, Obama's only half-succeeded. A detailed new study by the Democratic polling outfit Democracy Corps shows Obama leading McCain by a slim four points and underperforming among some key groups compared to John Kerry in '04 and Congressional Democrats in '06.

The full survey is worth a read.

Here's the good news for Obama supporters:

Much of Obama's strength is built on his support with young voters and African Americans as well as his appeal, and the Republicans' problems, with moderates. He is also performing extremely well with certain groups of white younger women and in the suburban areas that have been slowly trending Democratic across the nation. Here, Obama is currently outpacing both Kerry and, in most cases, 2006 congressional Democrats by significant margins.

More bright spots:

Obama is doing fairly well with many of the women's groups that supported Hillary Clinton in the primary – contributing importantly to his current gain in the vote. With white non-college women and younger women, Obama has shot past Kerry's performance and is close to matching Democratic performance in 2006.

Obama is also doing fairly well among white non-South rural voters – key to the bigger Electoral College map and why he may be running well in western states, like Colorado, Montana and even North Dakota.

Finally, after making big personal favorability gains with Hispanics since the primary, Obama is performing very well here, beating Kerry's margin by 13 points and outpacing congressional Democrats.

Some cause for concern:

Obama is winning only about 75-80 percent of voters in most conservative Democratic subgroups, well below the 85 percent and higher that Kerry and 2006 Democrats were able to achieve. He is, for instance, underperforming Kerry by a net of 12 points among white non-college Democrats and 9 points among white Democratic men. These are groups where big gains are possible if Obama can bring his support closer to historical Democratic levels.

And the real challenge:

Obama is also locked in a dogfight with McCain over independent voters, and he is currently lagging the performance of Kerry in 2004 and especially congressional Democrats in 2006 among some key groups of white independents. In particular, Obama is underperforming among white independent men and women, older white independents and white independents with a college degree. In the past three months, he has lost personal favorability with most of these key independent groups, one reason McCain and Obama are splitting these voters.

He is also underperforming with the relatively small group of white baby-boom college women – who were no doubt strong supporters of Hillary Clinton in the primary.

Obama is outperforming Kerry among white Catholics, but 2004 was a low point. Obama has a special challenge among these white ethnic Catholics where he is running behind 2006 and the current congressional Democrats. He has also made no gains in the last three months in his personal favorability with white Catholics.

White seniors are probably among the most challenging groups in this analysis. Obama is trailing by 15 points among these voters, which puts him behind Kerry's performance by a net of 4 points. Moreover, his vote share is 6 points lower than the current congressional candidate. As with white Catholics, Obama has gained little in terms of favorability or the vote since the conclusion of the primary.

There are certain segments of swing voters and even traditional Democrats who may not vote for Obama because of his race or exotic background. Yet the electorate is clearly yearning for change, and asking themselves whether Obama is the one who can deliver.

Bill Clinton's 1992 campaign could be a template for Obama. It's fascinating to go back and watch Clinton's TV ads. In ad after ad, the script went like this: Clinton had a plan to rebuild the economy and put people back to work and George Herbert Walker Bush did not. The fine print of the plan mattered less than the overall narrative advanced by Clinton. He painted Bush as an out-of-touch elitist whose policies favored the rich over ordinary Americans.

It doesn't take an economist to realize that the economy is in worse shape now than it was in 1992. And the second President Bush is even more unpopular than the first. These days John McCain's policies are scarcely different from the two Bushes. Like it was in 1992, Obama needs to make this election a referendum on whether we can afford more of the same.

Comments (104)

  1. Well first...

    "Obama is doing fairly well with many of the women's groups that supported Hillary Clinton in the primary – contributing importantly to his current gain in the vote. With white non-college women and younger women, Obama has shot past Kerry's performance and is close to matching Democratic performance in 2006."

    Why that's completely OPPOSITE what our resident "political expert" and Hillary cultist said....how can that be?!??!!?

    Second, you're right.

    Obama should replay MCCAIN'S OWN WORDS on his "economic expertise" over every ad he runs on the economy.

    And I'm hopeful that the campaign that defeated the Clintons...can keep smart and defeat McCain the same way, or even using the same methods the Clintons used.

    Posted by Maskdelta at 08/05/2008 @ 12:19pm

  2. The biggest problem that McCain has is lack of real supporters as is obvious from the real world and blogs where republicans never show support for McCain,but just put Obama down.The question is-how many will show up to vote for a candidate that they don't really support?

    Posted by i'm nobody at 08/05/2008 @ 12:23pm

  3. Posted by i'm nobody at 08/05/2008 @ 12:23pm

    I think even the Right admits that this election is "about Obama", not McCain.

    Most of them still don't like "Maverick John" (campaign finance, immigration, "agents of intolerance" comment)....he's just the "default" position on the voting machine lever.

    Posted by Maskdelta at 08/05/2008 @ 12:27pm

  4. Mask-And that makes me wonder how many will show up to vote as opposed to Obama who has quite a number of real supporters.

    Posted by i'm nobody at 08/05/2008 @ 12:32pm

  5. Posted by i'm nobody at 08/05/2008 @ 12:32pm

    That's the ENTIRE basis for the Republicans' 2008 campaign...make enough people fearful of Obama that they'll vote for the "default candidate" John McCain.

    They can't "support" or promote McCain...he's got too many flip-flops for the independents (his new takes on drilling, immigration, negative campaigning, etc.) or has alienated the conservative base (when he went "Maverick" over the last dozen years).

    So the ONLY thing they have is..."Be afraid of Obama", plus rallying the base with talk of "Obama is a socialist" (weak soup, but standard) or fear of the "black guy" (neatly termed "Magic"...a sure-fire inspiration to a good hunk of their base).

    This is election is a vote for or against Barack Obama...nothing else.

    Posted by Maskdelta at 08/05/2008 @ 12:38pm

  6. This is election is a vote for or against Barack Obama...nothing else.

    Posted by Maskdelta at 08/05/2008 @ 12:38pm

    hmmmmm?

    what to say and not sound cynical?

    Posted by frosty zoom at 08/05/2008 @ 1:04pm

  7. Happy-The only two people who come on here that exhibit cult thinking are you(dittohead) and frankgrits which makes it interesting that it is you two who point the cultist finger at others the most.You remind me of the sexist feminists who quickly point the sexist finger at others.

    Posted by i'm nobody at 08/05/2008 @ 1:11pm

  8. That's precisely why McCain isn't getting media coverage. The Republicans don't want him to. If they got critical of McCain they would notice him flip flopping all over the place. I said from the beginning McCain favors less media scrutiny. If he gets any is campaign will fall apart.

    Posted by Cccomfo1 at 08/05/2008 @ 1:20pm

  9. Posted by 2HAPPY at 08/05/2008 @ 1:07pm

    HAPP, first...so you think Obama will ALWAYS be behind in the polls? Apparently, given your embrace of them NOW....right?

    Second, McCain's position on immigration?...he now opposes HIS OWN BILL with Ted Kennedy.

    McCain's position on drilling?....opposite what it was, he's even hinting he'll flip on ANWR if "things get bad".

    McCain's position on waterboarding?

    McCain's position on 'pro-life'?...in 1999, he said despite being 'pro-life', he did NOT want Roe overturned...

    on Stephanopolous in 2006, he said it SHOULD be overturned.

    Do I go on?

    Posted by Maskdelta at 08/05/2008 @ 1:22pm

  10. The danger to the Clinton template is that his appeal was with blacks, that he didn't particularly help as president and women, whom he abused. He also appealed to moderate republicans, like me, "triangulation". I think there is a generational shift coming and WTO, NAFTA economics isn't especially popular this year. His arrogant comments like "roll of the dice" and "Jackson won here" are not especially helpful either. Obama has proven that he has a superior intellect and can easily handle world address moments. He just needs to trust that the American collective intellect is such that he will win a majority. This is a zero sum game 51% win 49% loose. I would rather be on the side of the kids this year.

    Posted by julien38 at 08/05/2008 @ 1:51pm

  11. So sad ... almost entire political campaigns built on 20-30 second TV ads, for which 100s of millions $$$ are spent in buy time.

    In no other OECD democracy are politics so shallow. The US is most definitely no longer a model.

    But it's a joy to The Owners. Such political dependency upon them, and not upon the uninformed electorate, such unlegislated control exercised over candidates & office holders.

    A wondrous spectacle to behold.

    Posted by sloper at 08/05/2008 @ 1:52pm

  12. Posted by Maskdelta at 08/05/2008 @ 1:22pm

    Oh course. Happ and the rest are willing to ignore or justify McCain's flops because he is on the right. Anyone from the left it is unforgivable. Happ says he has flopped over time but this is not true. McCain has flipped DURING this election.

    Posted by Cccomfo1 at 08/05/2008 @ 1:53pm

  13. Posted by Maskdelta at 08/05/2008 @ 1:22pm

    Remember Mask. Every single thing McCain does is justifiable because he is a war-hero and Republican. Every single thing Obama does is evil. Because he is young and a Democrat.

    Posted by Cccomfo1 at 08/05/2008 @ 1:57pm

  14. Every single thing Obama does is evil. Because he is young and a Democrat. Posted by Cccomfo1 at 08/05/2008

    Not to mention uppity, but we won't mention that.

    Posted by sloper at 08/05/2008 @ 1:59pm

  15. Posted by Cccomfo1 at 08/05/2008 @ 1:53pm

    Well, and see, almost entirely... McCain flip-flops TOWARDS the Right...i.e. his new "border security first, guest worker second...get around to citizenship later" stance....it's okay, 'cuz he's moved to the Right.

    Which is essentially the essence of most of McCain's "changes of heart"...and of course it's all PANDERING to his right-wing base.

    So those are okay with HAPP and the guys.

    In fact they expect and desire more. HAPP (and happy to be corrected, if not true) indicated that he expects a "President McCain" to flip flop on global warming TOWARDS the "it's not a big deal" side.

    Which is an odd..."hope" shall we call it...heheh

    given what little "maverick'ness" McCain has ever showed...tends towards the Center, not MORE Right-wing.

    Posted by Maskdelta at 08/05/2008 @ 2:50pm

  16. Hi Folks,

    Here we are, once again, facing the negative ads of the Republican elitist propaganda machine.

    How do the democrats fight it... Simply!!!! Attack the facts, Attack the facts, Attack the facts.

    How much will it cost each US family for the very ill conceived war in Iraq?? Why did we go there?? Big OIL!!! How did we get there?? Lies and deceptions!!!! More of the same!!!! The economy.. How did we get there??? Big financial establishments and greed!!! More of the same!!!!

    The housing catastrophe... The same, greet and unbelievable leverage by those same big financial establishments!!! More of the same!!!!

    Energy crisis!!!! It is not a crisis but that same greed of the Big financial establishment with options... No question in my mind. The reason prices are currently headed down is because of some sort of fear that big oil will be uncovered with their purchases of options along with the greed of the financial industry.

    Another reason for the reduction in oil futures is simply realization by oil that alternative energy initiatives will come to the forefront which will hamper the future earnings of oil.

    just some thoughts, which are rather complex for the general populus and a difficult read for people other then the possibility of placing the amount spent on the Iraq war in monetary terms for each individual or family in the country and what they could purchase with their shares of the funds other then what they have been placed in hawk for.

    Posted by shriphoot at 08/05/2008 @ 2:56pm

  17. The ONLY reason McC is still in it is because the MSM is apparently scared shitless of new con repubs so that McC has a green light to do any racist ad he likes and the MSM will not call him on it with the proper amount of moral outrage that is justifiable called for in this situation.

    McC is laughably wrong on most issues and lies about those stands on many occasions and many of the topics are video archived. There is no reason, other than their own cowardice, that the MSM isn't calling McC on all this.

    "This recently posted video of John McCain on the Letterman Show 18 October 2001, roughly a month after 9/11, suggests McCain knew about the Bush plan to take on Iraq. In addition to his cracks about killing Bin Laden by Halloween and intimidating "these people into going back to selling camels," he also floats the line that the anthrax used in the U.S. mail attacks "may have come from Iraq" and says the Bush administration was determined to hold the countries from which the terrorists came responsible. In retrospect, it's clear that McCain, our experience candidate, got pretty much everything wrong and was selling Bush's disastrous foreign policy, as he still is today."

    http://tinyurl.com/5z7mv7

    Posted by hsuBfools at 08/05/2008 @ 2:57pm

  18. Every single thing McCain does is justifiable because he is a war-hero and Republican.

    Posted by Cccomfo1 at 08/05/2008 @ 1:57pm

    correction:

    JOHN MCCAIN USED TO BE A HERO

    Posted by frankgrits at 05/19/2006 @ 9:28pm

    my caps -- fz

    Posted by frosty zoom at 08/05/2008 @ 3:02pm

  19. Posted by shriphoot at 08/05/2008 @ 2:56pm

    facts????

    the public?????

    naw.

    smear and double smear.

    works every time.

    Posted by frosty zoom at 08/05/2008 @ 3:04pm

  20. got pretty much everything wrong and was selling Bush's disastrous foreign policy, as he still is today."

    Posted by hsuBfools at 08/05/2008 @ 2:57pm

    facts????

    the public?????

    naw.

    smear and double smear.

    works every time.

    Posted by frosty zoom at 08/05/2008 @ 3:06pm

  21. Posted by frosty zoom at 08/05/2008 @ 3:02pm

    Yikes, FROSTY.

    Do you realize with that one (on top of the other couple dozen FRANK backtracks).....

    he'll be more convinced than ever that you're Ari Berman!

    (given no OTHER human being, not a "TN" employee, could EVER discover FG's old posts via a search engine!....heheh)

    Posted by Maskdelta at 08/05/2008 @ 3:07pm

  22. oh, and mask -- before you accuse me of being cynical please read comment here (near end of thread):

    http://www.thenation.com/blogs/cam paignmatters/341211/panning_mccain_s_childish_ad

    remember how you thought my anti-gore message was extra cynical?

    you sent a far worst anti-gore message in 2000. remember?

    i would never have done that.

    Posted by frosty zoom at 08/05/2008 @ 3:20pm

  23. to mask etc.,

    Posted by frosty zoom at 08/05/2008 @ 3:20pm

    anyhoo,

    peace be upon you, brotherly.

    Posted by frosty zoom at 08/05/2008 @ 3:21pm

  24. far worst?

    oops.

    far worster!

    Posted by frosty zoom at 08/05/2008 @ 3:24pm

  25. Uh, FRANK....to add to your McCain at Sturgis story....maybe you missed THIS part-

    "I was looking at the Sturgis schedule and noticed that you have a beauty pageant and so I encouraged Cindy to compete," McCain said to cheers from the (mostly male) crowd. "With a little luck, she could be on the only woman ever to serve as both the first lady and Miss Buffalo Chip."

    It is unlikely that Mrs. McCain participated. The "Miss Buffalo Chip Beauty Pageant - Bikinis on the Beach" was described by Jim Caple of EPSN as "essentially a topless beauty pageant. And occasionally bottomless, too."

    www.cbsnews.com

    Posted by Maskdelta at 08/05/2008 @ 4:11pm

  26. BTW, FRANK (et al), here's where you can claim either

    (A) McCain was willing to pimp out a topless even bottomless Cindy to a bunch of bikers (worst option)

    or (B) McCain didn't know what the hell was going on there and just proved it to those bikers (better, but still bad option...given how you just touted how he just got in cozy with them and gives a pretty good indication of how his campaign is being run!)

    LOL

    Posted by Maskdelta at 08/05/2008 @ 4:20pm

  27. Taking back the microphone, McCain joked that he wanted her to enter the beauty contest held at the site, the Buffalo Chip campground on the edge of town.

    "I told her with a little luck, she could be the only woman ever to serve as both the first lady and Miss Buffalo Chip," McCain quipped.----Posted by frankgrits at 08/05/2008 @ 4:21pm

    FRANK, do you have me on Ignore....or just a glutton for punishment?

    LOL

    What is INVOLVED in the "Miss Buffalo Chip" "pageant"?

    Posted by Maskdelta at 08/05/2008 @ 4:23pm

  28. (C) McCain knew exactly what he was doing and the crowd roared approvingly. It's called playing to the crowd. B.O. does ot all the time. Also, mcCain's wife is beautiful and that was his way of complimenting her. You of coures have no sense of humor yet again.

    This is a crowd, blue-collar, heartland that Obama would love to impress but he can forget it.----Posted by frankgrits at 08/05/2008 @ 4:24pm

    Okay, so you would "compliment" your wife, in front of a crowd you hoped to earn votes from...

    by saying that you suggested to her that she enter a contest where she would go topless, perhaps totally nude?

    I see.

    Maybe you ought to discuss that with MRS. GRITS tonight (or lie and say you did) and see how she feels about it.

    BTW, we've all got a pretty good take on what YOU consider a "sense of humor" from your "painted robot caddies" "jokes".

    Posted by Maskdelta at 08/05/2008 @ 4:30pm

  29. Posted by frankgrits at 08/05/2008 @ 4:27pm

    BTW, virtually identical to FRANK's posts from some three months ago...simply substitute "Hillary" for "McCain".

    Posted by Maskdelta at 08/05/2008 @ 4:32pm

  30. Okay, FRANK, here's a question in the "now"...and love to see you answer it honestly...

    WHERE did you hear about Freddoso's book?

    Posted by Maskdelta at 08/05/2008 @ 4:42pm

  31. "We're not going to achieve energy independence by inflating our tires."

    so then,

    how is it supposed to be done, mr. mccain?

    hmmmm?

    THE SUN! IT'S HOT!

    Posted by frosty zoom at 08/05/2008 @ 4:44pm

  32. "that was then, this is now"

    <i>the wheels on the bus go round and round......

    Posted by frosty zoom at 08/05/2008 @ 4:45pm

  33. Straight talk express.

    Posted by frankgrits at 08/05/2008 @ 4:48pm

    ha!

    i bet he's got those tires properly inflated to save some precious dollaritos* on the canpain trailer.

    ha!

    *©2008 fedbank, inc. "our dollaritos are always properly inflated!"

    Posted by frosty zoom at 08/05/2008 @ 5:15pm

  34. I'm sure that that bus is very secure and mechanically sound. The tires are probably changed before they need air.

    Posted by frankgrits at 08/05/2008 @ 5:49pm

    phroooooom!!!!

    Posted by frosty zoom at 08/05/2008 @ 6:07pm

  35. Posted by 2HAPPY at 08/05/2008 @ 5:47pm

    you know what they say:

    "wilting arugula for two consecutive quarters means it's a recession."

    Posted by frosty zoom at 08/05/2008 @ 6:11pm

  36. And Frank runs through like a naked person again.

    McCain good energy policy? What happened to McCain before the election who was against offshore drilling? Now he is hinting at drilling ANWR and supports offshore. Looks like a flip flopper to me.

    Posted by Cccomfo1 at 08/05/2008 @ 6:11pm

  37. what's this? wonder bread in trouble? teamsters agreeing?:

    In order to possibly re-emerge from Chapter 11 as a standalone company, Interstate Bakeries Corp. has asked the Bankruptcy Court to extend the confirmation hearing on its plan of reorganization, currently scheduled for March 12, to April 23. That means IBC expects the commitment from Silver Point Finance LLC for exit financing of up to $400 million to expire on March 14. In a statement, Kansas City, Mo.-based IBC said it has begun an orderly process to sell all or portions of the company's businesses and assets and will immediately begin discussions with potential strategic purchasers. IBC makes the famed Hostess Twinkies, Wonder Bread and Drake's Devil Dogs, among other products.

    Also of note, a financial investor that previously expressed interest in making an equity investment in the company recently provided IBC with a proposal regarding labor concessions that the International Brotherhood of Teamsters agreed with. - Baz Hiralal

    naw. ain't no way there's a "recession".

    Posted by frosty zoom at 08/05/2008 @ 6:12pm

  38. Oh and how about that McCain that was against running "low road" campaigns. Guess he flip flopped on that too. Oh and the McCain that's against torture? Or the McCain for immigration? Looks like John 'Maverick' McCain is running as fast as he can away from center and as far right as he can get.

    Posted by Cccomfo1 at 08/05/2008 @ 6:13pm

  39. Of course this little detail will be ignored by McCain supporters. They will crucify anything Obama does but McCain can do no wrong according to them.

    Posted by Cccomfo1 at 08/05/2008 @ 6:14pm

  40. Wonder where McCain stands on things?

    Posted by Cccomfo1 at 08/05/2008 @ 6:19pm

  41. Classy by the way offering your wife to do a topless and possibly bottomless contest. I wonder how many wives would be ok with that. Also I wonder how many women voters he lost with that comment when they find out what the event actually is?

    Posted by Cccomfo1 at 08/05/2008 @ 6:23pm

  42. Wonder where McCain stands on things?

    Posted by Cccomfo1 at 08/05/2008 @ 6:19pm

    i have the answer:

    http://www.adelaideinstitute.org/images/photos2008/Log%20Rolling.jpg

    Posted by frosty zoom at 08/05/2008 @ 6:23pm

  43. 2008 Sturgis Rally Events

    Trucks, Noise and Real Horsepower will invade the 2008 Sturgis Motorcycle Rally at the Buffalo Chip Campground.

    John McCain will participate in Tribute to American Veterans and Active Duty Servicemen on Aug. 4

    Don't Miss The 4th Annual Hill Climb Event at the Buffalo Chip Campground.

    Lady Victoria and 3 other professional women wrestlers will conduct twice daily oil wrestling matches.

    http://www.buffalochip.com/HOME/tabid/36/Default.aspx

    Posted by frosty zoom at 08/05/2008 @ 6:26pm

  44. bgutierrez

    Posts:0

    04/18/2006 7:46 AM Alert

    Hey all i am dying to be miss buffalo chip... ok.. i am really dying to win a monthlty online contest so i can get a pass to sturgis... I am recently divorced and want desperately to go to Sturgis this summer!! I love riding harleys, being naked, drinking beer... I am the hot blond... depending on the photo they have posted on the contest page, i could be inthe black gangster hat or in a black top with camo pants on a softail deuce... or in a hot pink bikini... no matter what i am wearing i'm the one who looks the best and is most ready to ride wild and meet some hot bikers in South Dakota

    http://www.buffalochip.com/COMMUNITY/tabid/ 56/forumid/4/postid/791/view/topic/Default.aspx

    Posted by frosty zoom at 08/05/2008 @ 6:28pm

  45. I want a book about Maverick John and how the right has turned him from being a tiger who can go either way to a tame house cat of the right. The type who rubs elbows with Pat Robertson and goes from being against offshore drilling to not only being willing to compromise on it to pass other agendas but to completely support it.

    That's the difference between Obama's flips so far and McCain's. Obama didn't flip on offshore drilling he compromised. He got something he wanted by giving up something he didn't. FISA, he said he compromised. I think that was more of just giving up on the fight to get the votes because he knew it was going to pass no matter what he did. McCain flipped on torture. McCain when he flips it isn't a compromise. He isn't flipping his position in order to get something else like Obama did on offshore drilling. He entirely changes his position and comes out in support of something else. He was AGAINST Robertson. Then he was for Robertson. He was against smear campaigns. Now he is for smear campaigns.

    However all the supporters of McCain will point out that these are all "explainable." They have a certain way of explaining away his faults. Where as the supporters of Obama, who they claim "drank the kool-aid", are the ones who stand up to their candidate and lead protests in order to get him to come back their way.

    Wonder who really drank it? The people who ignore their candidates obvious defaults while criticizing his opponent for doing the same things or the people who are critical of their candidate AND his opponent?

    Posted by Cccomfo1 at 08/05/2008 @ 6:30pm

  46. >>>He painted Bush as an out-of-touch elitist whose policies favored the rich over ordinary Americans.<<<

    Skull and Bones Society and Yalee Bush1 was fairly easy to paint as an elitist.

    McCain seems harder to portray that way because of his scruffy image.

    McCain is also not slipping like was earlier by ignoring the economy, but you are correct to note that his policies are more of the same. Obama is already doing what you suggest by tying him to Bush's failed policies.

    Let's hope that most voters understand this and don't let their fears be exploited to their own detriment.

    Posted by Metteyya at 08/05/2008 @ 6:32pm

  47. Yup. "Why is McCain still in it?" Cause we like stupid. We can understand senile. We all know someone who won't correct us because they are more stupid than we are. We voted for bush because we could understand that he had to give up Jim Beam and go to O'douls. You know, a good ol' boy. one of us. McCain stopped being a maverick twenty years ago. I don't know where Obama tips the IQ scale, but it sure is above average. We've tried stupid, how about intelligent? What the hell what have we got to loose?

    Posted by julien38 at 08/05/2008 @ 7:07pm

  48. ADDENDA: We have shipped most of the country to China and India

    Posted by julien38 at 08/05/2008 @ 7:12pm

  49. John McCain is still in this race because he is a war hero and Obama has not found a fair and diplomatic way to point out that the skills needed to survive as a POW 30 years ago have zip to do with running a super power in the 21st century.

    Senator Obama is also allowing himself to be accused of not being sufficiently experienced by the same people who elected George Bush. George Bush! Who supported George Bush even after he was savaged by the Bush campaign in South Carolina? John McCain! It should be hammered home daily-John McCain supported an inarticulate, greedy, anti-intellectual buffoon-George Bush! With exclamation marks! Every time!

    As for we women who supported Hillary Clinton it would benefit the senator to understand that we want to be the power on the throne, not behind it. We are frustrated and it is showing in the polling. But come November we will do what is best for our husbands, parents, children and grandchildren and that is neither sitting at home whining or voting for the old guy with the younger, blonder second wife. Trust me on this one.

    Posted by Pogge at 08/05/2008 @ 7:33pm

  50. I hear you, "Ccomf01."

    I'd like to suggest, though, that we occasionally refer to ANWR as what it is: the Alaskan National Wildlife Refuge.

    Mark my words, if the fossil fuel industries ever want to mine Yosemite or the Grand Canyon, they'll be sure to call these places "YNP" and "GCNP," just to fool the semi-literate.

    What's the point in preserving a national treasure when you can tear it up and give the fossil-fuel industries one last big party before they have to invest in something else and we are left wondering how we're all going to get to work?

    Posted by JakobFabian at 08/05/2008 @ 7:40pm

  51. Frankilin, my buddy the Pentecostal minister's wife told me back in 2000 when the Republican base controlled everything that it was only a matter of time before Roe V Wade was a distant memory and prayer was back in school. The Republican base should be annoyed, but not by me.

    Posted by Pogge at 08/05/2008 @ 8:17pm

  52. I have not heard a lot about the effect of Cell Phone use on Polls. It seems to me that most people under 30 do not have a land line but only a cell phone and if I am not mistaken, pollsters cannot call cell phones. If this is true and Obama's support lies mainly with younger voters, than the polls are greatly understimating his lead. I guess we will not know until election day. The close poll numbers might just motivate these younger voters to vote.

    Posted by McKevin at 08/05/2008 @ 8:22pm

  53. One of the reasons why John McCain is so popular to such a broad swath of the country is his ability to identify with the regular joe. Don't discount how important this is. That's how Bush got elected twice. Obama on the other hand, comes across like a stuffy elitist who's better than everyon else. he needs to change that image pronto if he wants to get the blue collar vote. Lessons are extra. Posted by frankgrits at 08/05/2008 @ 7:05pm |

    I love this thought that politicians are like the avergae joe. It's hilarious to me. There is no politician that lives like you and I. They are all rich, you have to be to get elected, and have all been rich for a while now. They are not like us. They don't understand our needs. They don't understand the needs of the poor. People need to start scrutinizing the fact that ALL politicians are "elitist" and don't understand the trials of the common man.

    Posted by Cccomfo1 at 08/05/2008 @ 8:28pm

  54. You think Paris Hilton is hot!? Gah it hurts looking at hurt.

    Posted by Cccomfo1 at 08/05/2008 @ 8:30pm

  55. McKevin, you are dead on re the cells. We are NOT young folk, but we just ditched our satellite for the Internet. (I couldn't stomach paying for all the religious and shopping channels we never watched)I now regularly read "Human Events" among other scary stuff, but I figure it builds character. Kind of like an eight mile hike across the arctic in a bikini would, but oh well.

    BTW can anyone explain to me why DISH network includes only FOX NEWS in it's family package? Another reason the Internet makes sense-ala carte viewing and shorter commercials.

    Posted by Pogge at 08/05/2008 @ 8:39pm

  56. Posted by McKevin at 08/05/2008 @ 8:22pm

    Interesting observation. I wonder if there is credence in the numbers to it. I know I don't have a landline because I move too often.

    Posted by Cccomfo1 at 08/05/2008 @ 8:45pm

  57. Yes another reason McC is still in it is because most of the US of A public remember the McC of 2000 and know even less about the McC of 2008 than they do Obama. Once the major Obama ads hit showing McC all flippy floppy being against hsuB before he was all for hsuB, being and for a long long list of major issues as well as looking like a total bigoted idiot-- bye bye McC numbers being even close.

    Posted by hsuBfools at 08/05/2008 @ 9:07pm

  58. The best response to FRANK...

    http://www.funnyordie.com/videos/64ad536a6d

    Posted by Maskdelta at 08/05/2008 @ 9:09pm

  59. Have you ever seen a photo of John McCain in his full dress uniform? Scruffy image? I don't think so.

    Posted by frankgrits at 08/05/2008 @ 7:02pm

    yeah. he used to be a hero, to quote you.

    Posted by frosty zoom at 08/05/2008 @ 9:26pm

  60. His wife, Cindy, also paid tribute to the cr

    Posted by frankgrits at 08/05/2008 @ 4:07pm | ignore this person | warn this person

    obama draws hordes to hear him speak while flippy mack finds crowds already gathered and gloms some corny time in between acts and bannana sucking...

    otherwise...what MASK said...lol...

    Posted by ibbleblibble at 08/05/2008 @ 9:26pm

  61. We've tried stupid, how about intelligent? What the hell what have we got to loose?

    Posted by julien38 at 08/05/2008 @ 7:07pm

    how about intelligent AND sane?

    richard cheney's intelligent......

    Posted by frosty zoom at 08/05/2008 @ 9:28pm

  62. Posted by frosty zoom at 08/05/2008 @ 9:26pm

    I think FRANK spends more time imagining Hillary in a certain style of dress...or un-dress....than McCain in dress uniform!

    heheh

    Posted by Maskdelta at 08/05/2008 @ 9:30pm

  63. On Tuesday, McCain aims to underscore his call for expanded nuclear power in the U.S. by touring a nuclear power plant in the battleground state of Michigan.

    Posted by frankgrits at 08/05/2008 @ 4:21p

    eek!

    fermi two.

    It stands out on a highway like a Creature from another time. It inspires the babies' questions, "What's that?" For their mothers as they ride.

    But no one stopped to think about the babies or how they would survive, and we almost lost Detroit this time.

    How would we ever get over loosing our minds?

    Just thirty miles from Detroit stands a giant power station. It ticks each night as the city sleeps seconds from anniahlation. But no one stopped to think about the people or how they would survive, and we almost lost Detroit this time.

    gil scott-heron

    www.youtube.com/watch?v=b54rB64fXY4

    Posted by frosty zoom at 08/05/2008 @ 9:31pm

  64. What's the point in preserving a national treasure when you can tear it up and give the fossil-fuel industries one last big party before they have to invest in something else and we are left wondering how we're all going to get to work?

    Posted by JakobFabian at 08/05/2008 @ 7:40pm

    i hear they want to drill up lincoln's nose at mt. rushmore.

    http://www.posters-n-prints.com/zoom/lincolns-nose-face-to-face.jpg

    Posted by frosty zoom at 08/05/2008 @ 9:33pm

  65. Now, lets' see if Britney can measure up, maybe w/out her undie? Hehehehehe.....

    Posted by 2HAPPY at 08/05/2008 @ 8:05pm

    sounds like she measures you up.

    Posted by frosty zoom at 08/05/2008 @ 9:35pm

  66. I am surprised that no one on a news show ever asks the "global warming ain't real" guests exactly what the the upside of foul air and water is? Out here in the sticks even (gasp) Republicans are going green because it makes economic sense. So if it isn't the economy, stupid, why would anyone be pro-pollution? It's mental I tell ya.

    Posted by Pogge at 08/05/2008 @ 9:41pm

  67. I am surprised that no one on a news show ever asks the "global warming ain't real" guests exactly what the the upside of foul air and water is? Out here in the sticks even (gasp) Republicans are going green because it makes economic sense. So if it isn't the economy, stupid, why would anyone be pro-pollution? It's mental I tell ya.

    Posted by Pogge at 08/05/2008 @ 9:42pm

  68. I think FRANK spends more time imagining Hillary in a certain style of dress...or un-dress....than McCain in dress uniform!

    heheh

    Posted by Maskdelta at 08/05/2008 @ 9:30pm

    very tasteless:

    http://data5.blog.de/media/199/2542199_2e3993dfc9_m.jpg

    retro:

    http://www1.cj.msu.edu/~outreach/azm/12.JPG

    Posted by frosty zoom at 08/05/2008 @ 9:43pm

  69. OOPS sorry. It's hot, humid and the keys are sticking.

    Posted by Pogge at 08/05/2008 @ 9:44pm

  70. would someone please stop "frank" from hyperventilating?

    Posted by Zero at 08/05/2008 @ 9:15pm

    ZERO, you can ask me anything you want. I hear you.

    Posted by frankgrits at 09/05/2007 @ 11:29pm

    Posted by frosty zoom at 08/05/2008 @ 9:47pm

  71. well...when harrison bergeron was off in europe being harrison bergeron...

    the party of homer j simpson had the opportunity to appeal to the homer j simpson crowd at home by flinging typical homer j simpson chum to homer j simpson amuruhkuh unapposed by harrison bergeron...

    and it appeared to have had some success...homer j simpsons of the country began to wonder if indeed they wanted a president less stupid and vapid than they...

    but mr. bergeron has returned and is now punching back and although homer j simpson amuruhkuh wil still largely vote for the homer j simpson party candidate...well...

    even ol homer dimly realizes that perhaps having a smart president may not be such a bad idea and he's easily hypnotized by charismatic leaders...so...

    look for a swing back in favor of mr. bergeron now that he's back to not only defend himself but to enact the best defense of all - the offensive.

    Posted by ibbleblibble at 08/05/2008 @ 9:47pm

  72. This Administration is extremely amatureous and unprofessional. I'm glad I'm not a supporter. That would be way beneath my principles.

    Posted by frankgrits at 01/13/2006 @ 9:54pm

    Posted by frosty zoom at 08/05/2008 @ 9:52pm

  73. Democrats should filibuster the Alito nomination and do it with authority and expressively. The time to act is before he is confirmed. Afterward will be too late. If another republican wins the Presidency, the SC will be extremely conservative into the next century. The time to act is now and these democratic Senators are charged with a gravely serious mission. Will they meet the challange?

    Posted by frankgrits at 01/13/2006 @ 10:01pm

    Posted by frosty zoom at 08/05/2008 @ 9:53pm

  74. Do you think the huge oil companies will allow development of alternate fuel sources? If so, why haven't they done so long ago? Do you think that the two TRILLION that Bush's adventure in Iraq will ultimately cost could have been better used to fund some of the projects you suggest, rather that rebuilding a third world country that WE destroyed in order to get control of MORE oil so that those same oil companies can put off development of alternate fuel a little longer? Do you think the party of Lee Atwater and Karl Rove and Jack Abramoff and Tom Delay should do a long overdue mea culpa?

    It's nice to see you thinking , but it's not the left who are in denial. They're a sleeping giant, who thanks to Dubya are finally beginning to awaken to the republican coup that has been fomenting to fruition for the last 40 years.

    Posted by frankgrits at 01/14/2006 @

    Posted by frosty zoom at 08/05/2008 @ 9:54pm

  75. Re: The Republican Convention

    Years ago the then 13 year-old son of our very conservative Baptist neighbors came over while I was watching the GOP convention. He asked me what I was watching and I said, "Actually, Shane I'm playing a game. Want to try?" He was bored enough to try anything, so I explained. "Watch the crowd behind whoever is talking and yell "Minority" when you see a person who isn't white. If you see them first you win." After about twenty minutes of silence he said, "This is a dumb game. All these guys are white." Point.Set.Match.

    Posted by Pogge at 08/05/2008 @ 9:58pm

  76. Guarenteed Hannity will be all over liberals tonight for advocating withdrawal from Iraq. Be a hell of a thing to get attacked at home while our troops are overseas huh?

    Posted by frankgrits at 10/06/2005 @ 7:23pm

    Posted by frosty zoom at 08/05/2008 @ 10:11pm

  77. Prime Minister Maliki says we won the Iraq war. Let's get the hey out before he changes his mind.

    Don't think of it as a withdrawal it's a triumph, a magnificent victory for our great and glorious leader . Hannity et al should be dancing in the streets.

    (Somewhere George Orwell is laughing).

    Posted by Pogge at 08/05/2008 @ 10:17pm

  78. Right now as we speak, Republicans in the House are trying to push a bill through that will increase the production of refineries in the U.S. They are trying to take advantage of the shortage because of Katrina to capitalize on increasing profits for the oil companies. Unfortunately, this bill also guts the provisions of the Clean Air Act, the Clean Water Act, and the Endangered Species Act. This is how republicans operate. They shift the focus, capitalizing on peoples fears in order to line their pockets and skirt much needed environmental regulations. If they gave as much attention to developing alternative sources of fuel and providing for increased effecient fuel standards for SUV's and and other large vehicles or as the southerners like to say, veHICKles.

    Posted by frankgrits at 10/07/2005 @ 11:49am

    Posted by frosty zoom at 08/05/2008 @ 10:31pm

  79. JOHN MCCAIN USED TO BE A HERO

    Posted by frankgrits at 05/19/2006 @ 9:28pm

    Posted by frosty zoom at 08/05/2008 @ 10:32pm

  80. If people fall for this crap again, they deserve what they get. It's time to hold this gang accountable for weakening America's security in their silly foreign policy and stay out in front in the PR game.

    Posted by frankgrits at 10/07/2005 @ 11:30am

    Posted by frosty zoom at 08/05/2008 @ 10:33pm

  81. I'm the hitter.

    Posted by frankgrits at 08/05/2008 @ 10:26pm | ignore this person | warn this person

    quisling is the description that pops into my head.

    Posted by ibbleblibble at 08/05/2008 @ 10:33pm

  82. Too true Frank, but that's why we were looking at the crowd behind the reporters. Of course there are minorities front and center when the camera is on the podium.

    But how about the "camera adds ten pounds" thing? Is it just me or are Republican women a bit bonier, a tad less robust then Democratic women? It seems that the higher up the GOP political food chain you go the more anorexic appearing the women are, particularly the political wives. Goes for a lot of the female right leaning newscasters, commentators, analysts and columnists too. (Anne Coulter doesn't count. Vampires are gaunt by nature. It isn't her fault).

    Posted by Pogge at 08/05/2008 @ 10:38pm

  83. BUT DON'T FRET. I'D RATHER CHEW GLASS THAN VOTE FOR ANY REPUBLICAN, EVER, PERIOD.

    Posted by frankgrits at 01/30/2006 @ 10:43pm

    Posted by frosty zoom at 08/05/2008 @ 10:42pm

  84. Posted by 2HAPPY at 08/05/2008 @ 9:41pm

    Wait. Are you telling me the in order to shift the focus to McCain. They plan to play Barack's acceptance speech not once but TWICE during the RNC? That'll show em. Let's face it Happy. Obama is an eloquent speaker. You may not like the guy but I think even you can admit that. McCain isn't one to weave a beautiful picture with his words. If this is their strategy they should throw in the towel now.

    Posted by Cccomfo1 at 08/05/2008 @ 10:43pm

  85. Posted by frankgrits at 08/05/2008 @ 10:38pm

    That was from the same post where you predicted McCain "wouldn't make it out of the primaries"...

    one of several FG prognostications that secured your reputation as the clairvoyant that you are.

    LOL

    Posted by Maskdelta at 08/05/2008 @ 10:48pm

  86. Of course Paris Hilton sounds like a democrat but I'm not so sure. I don't think she knows the difference.---Posted by frankgrits at 08/05/2008 @ 10:47pm

    You guys HAVE to know....FRANK doesn't get the irony of that post and how it relates to HIM!

    LOL

    Posted by Maskdelta at 08/05/2008 @ 10:50pm

  87. Why should a 'politician' be treated with respect when he demonstrates a wanton disregard for his own values. Young people still have innocent values before they are corrupted by money. John McCain used to be a hero, a maverick and a Senator who took a stand. All of a sudden he's catering to the likes of Jerry Falwell who once accused Bill Clinton of murder to save his ministry. Republican benefactor Richard Mellon Schaif, payed Falwell to make the charge in his newsletter. Falwell's ministry was going under so he agreed. He took the money and to his credit later acknowledged that he was wrong to accuse Clinton. Of course it was an outrageous charge to begin with but loony Limbaugh picked it up an ran with it as did all the other wingnuts. These are the kind of people that John McCain is sucking up tp now. Next President? I predict he doesn't even get past the primaries.

    Posted by frankgrits at 05/19/2006 @ 9:28pm

    Posted by frosty zoom at 08/05/2008 @ 10:51pm

  88. We the people must understand that all the bombs and bullets and manpower cannot defeat an ideal as ingrained in the middle east as Islam. We can try to negotiate and offer a better way of life but we cannot and should not try to bring democracy to a people at the point of a gun. They will resist and our kids will keep dying.

    America has sacrificed more than enough and we will be leaving in steps starting February 1st. Troops will be gradually withdrawn to protect themselves and will be totally out of Iraq by June 1st.

    Posted by frankgrits at 11/10/2006 @ 12:34pm

    Posted by frosty zoom at 08/05/2008 @ 10:58pm

  89. LL, the advances made in the last century regarding civil rights, choice, safety in the work place, collective barganing, modernizing the military and caring for the poor were largely through the efforts of democratic Congresses and Presidents. The Renquist court did what it could to reverse that progress and it didn't take Constitutional amendments. All it took was a little media control and corporate money. God help us if the SC goes to far to the right. There will be anarchy.

    Posted by frankgrits at 09/12/2005 @ 9:14pm

    Posted by frosty zoom at 08/05/2008 @ 11:02pm

  90. Frank, you score. They can also afford more lipo, more surgery, personal trainers etc.

    They probably care a lot more too. I have a few token rich friends-all but one are GOPPERS. It takes a heck of a lot of work to be a member of the "sweater set" set. The race to keep up with the Jones' probably trims off a few pounds.

    Funny story. A woman I know who is richer than God took issue with my assessment of Florida as a terrible place to retire to. She lives on its' east coast you see and assured me I would love the "sea breezes and smell of saltwater". I like her, bless her heart, but had to say, "Marilyn, the hubby and I can't afford beach front property. For people in our income bracket retiring to Florida means an 6x35 trailer in the swamp". She looked so genuinely puzzled it was really kind of sweet in an "omigod I want to slap some sense in to you people" kind of way.

    Posted by Pogge at 08/05/2008 @ 11:03pm

  91. NEW DAWN, I'm thinking of a ticket with Chuck Hagel at the top and Bernie Sanders of Vermont as VP. Those two can really get the point across that this country is in trouble.

    Posted by frankgrits at 01/30/2006 @ 10:50pm

    Posted by frosty zoom at 08/05/2008 @ 11:16pm

  92. Hate to say it but what Iraq needs is a strong dictator to keep those warring factions in line.

    Posted by frankgrits at 01/30/2006 @ 11:00pm

    you mean like john mccain?

    Posted by frosty zoom at 08/05/2008 @ 11:17pm

  93. I think what everyone forgets is that once you get to the Senate, you can't get any of your own causes advanced unless you play ball. McCain has made a career being a maverick but if he didn't get the pork for his own state, just like everyone else, he'd be on the outside looking in too.

    Posted by frankgrits at 01/30/2006 @ 11:22pm

    oink!

    Posted by frosty zoom at 08/05/2008 @ 11:17pm

  94. My mother is the same age as John McCain, in better health, as intelligent and active. She thinks he is too old to be president, one of her arguements being that he can't use a computer, another being that he isn't curious enough about new technologies to bother to learn. She believes he should stay in the Senate where he can take his time working out complex issues. Says most seniors are more cognitively suited to this sort of environment where the wisdom and accumulated knowledge are more important than speed and creativity.

    Plese don't shoot the messenger, I'm just passing along the opinion of one of his peers.

    Posted by Pogge at 08/05/2008 @ 11:32pm

  95. frank,

    you always posted sensible, anti-bs ramblings.

    war sucks, etc.,

    you've ridiculed the person you now say you will vote for you.

    i'm just trying to help you see who you've lost:

    yourself.

    Posted by frosty zoom at 08/05/2008 @ 11:33pm

  96. but since it bothers you so,

    i'm finished with that.

    vote for mccain. congratulations.

    Posted by frosty zoom at 08/05/2008 @ 11:35pm

  97. Posted by frosty zoom at 08/05/2008 @ 11:33pm

    Good work on The Google there, FROSTY.

    At this point, a McCain victory will be the only thing to "salvage" FRANK's own mental stability at this time.

    Unless he gets to gloat on the late evening of November 4th and tell us "poor, ignorant fools" that "see? I knew what I was talking about the whole time!"....his brain will implode.

    An Obama victory not only means FRANK is wrong!?!!?!!? (again, of course)....but that Hillary is finished as a potential Presidential candidate (2012 will be the incumbent Obama and 2016 will be too far away for her and she'll be 69)...

    but it will mean that FRANK has gone through the last 6 months, sold out EVERY principle he once had, alienated everybody that used to like him on this board, and WORSE?...

    he became pals with LVLIB, PONTI, HAPPY, MARYBRET, etc.!

    LOL

    Posted by Maskdelta at 08/06/2008 @ 09:09am

  98. Posted by frankgrits at 08/06/2008 @ 10:10am

    FRANK, did you once say that McCain was likely "mentally unbalanced"?

    What do you say now?

    Did you say that you'd "RATHER CHEW GLASS THAN VOTE FOR ANY REPUBLICAN, EVER, PERIOD."...no, no caveat for "except McCain"?

    What do you say now?

    Did you say "MCCAIN USED TO BE A HERO"?

    What do you say now?

    And yet you claim you're "consistant" and "always liked McCain"?

    Seriously...do you think ANYBODY on this blog believes you anymore? Anybody?

    Posted by Maskdelta at 08/06/2008 @ 10:49am

  99. no, frank.

    john mccain is for so many of the things that you vehemently opposed.

    it's o.k. to change your mind about an economic plan, say, but a war based on lies?

    <<<Finally, the infamous aluminum pipes that are supposed to be used in a centrifugal enrichment process. Powell and Bush should be able to relax regarding this point, for they would have at least a ten-year attack period before Iraq would be able to militarize these pipes. According to the "American experts" themselves, such a process would need kilometers of strung out, highly tuned, delicately controlled spinners to fulfill their ill-wish for Iraq. Not to be noticed by their satellites, PowerPoint presentations and colored arrows would then be an intelligence folly. This is not even mentioning the lack of a stable electric power supply in Iraq or the phantom of highly technical staff to run these kilometers long "very high grade and expensive" mortar casings that are not made to U.S. military standards. Perhaps Powell's grievance was, "How dare Iraq think of such expensive mortars?"

    Powell said: "Let me now turn to nuclear weapons. We have no indication that Saddam Hussein has ever abandoned his nuclear weapons program." This verges on being humorous. But as the Arabic proverb goes: The worst kind of misfortune is that which causes you to laugh.>>>

    [Imad Khadduri has a MSc in Physics from the University of Michigan (United States) and a PhD in Nuclear Reactor Technology from the University of Birmingham (United Kingdom). KHADDURI WORKED WITH THE IRAQI ATOMIC ENERGY COMMISSION FROM 1968 UNTIL 1998. He was able to leave Iraq in late 1998 with his family. He now teaches and works in Toronto, Canada. He has been interviewed by the Toronto Star, Reuters, and various other news agencies in regards

    Posted by frosty zoom at 08/06/2008 @ 11:10am

  100. as to obama, frank,

    he's just less worster than mccain.

    but like you pointed out:

    Democrats should filibuster the Alito nomination and do it with authority and expressively. The time to act is before he is confirmed. Afterward will be too late. IF ANOTHER REPUBLICAN WINS THE PRESIDENCY, THE SC WILL BE EXTREMELY CONSERVATIVE INTO THE NEXT CENTURY. The time to act is now and these democratic Senators are charged with a gravely serious mission. Will they meet the challange?

    Posted by frosty zoom at 08/06/2008 @ 11:16am

  101. McCain was not playing the crowd at the motorcycle rally--he was hammered! Did no one else realize that he was obviously inebriated? I've typed enough DUI police and attorney interviews to recognize problems with word retrieval, slurring and stammering as NHTSA recognized signs of being under the influence (of course, McCain has some issues in this area when cold sober) when I see and hear it. It's a good thing he was not driving himself anywhere after the event. Can you say DUI? I wonder why his handlers did not reign him in on this occasion? His handlers actually have not been doing such a good job of keeping McCain current on news and events--he's still saying Obama is against offshore drilling even though Obama has embraced the Gang of 10 bipartisan Bill which includes limited offshore drilling. I am starting to think that McCain's handlers are not entirely committed to his election and may be just going through the motions for the down ticket races. It's a distinct possibility. Obama '08

    Posted by MaryanneAZ at 08/06/2008 @ 3:22pm

  102. Posted by MaryanneAZ at 08/06/2008 @ 3:22pm

    Well, "he was drunk" WOULD be a better excuse than "He was joking about letting a bunch of people see his wife naked to get their votes"...

    or "He was pretending to know what these people were involved in, but was really just a doddering fool who was trying to relate to folks he knew nothing about".

    Posted by Maskdelta at 08/06/2008 @ 3:34pm

  103. It drives me nuts when people extoll my State Senator McCain as a hero. McCain was not a Hero, he was a Hostage! Both words start with an "H", but that is where the similarity ends. McCain would have been a hero if he had broken out of the Hanoi Hilton and taken his fellow prisoners with him. McCain would have been a hero if he had negotiated all of the prisoners' release when his father, the Admiral, was negotiating with his captors. McCain would have been a hero if he had risen up in the ranks on his own merit once he was released from the HH and not been "released" from the military for his lackluster performance and behavior. McCain is no hero for the State of Arizona either. While he decries pork barrel earmarks, his State goes without funds that might go a long way toward exploring solar power, skin cancer treatment and avoidance, silt to the river bottom of the Grand Canyon riverbed, and many other worthy projects we are denied. Earmarks are provided in the Constitution and have a legitimate use and should be embraced to promote research and development in States like Arizona. I too deplore misuse of the earmark fund system, but that is the only area McCain focuses on to our detriment in Arizona. McCain should not be allowed anywhere near the White House as President or even as a Senator! Obama '08

    Posted by MaryanneAZ at 08/06/2008 @ 3:37pm

  104. Absolutely true Maryanne. The word hero is so overused it is practically meaningless. Our newsletter has a heroes corner that should more correctly be called the "Good Citizen " corner since those cited have just done the right thing at no risk to themselves what so ever. Admirable and worthy of note, just not heroic.

    Posted by Pogge at 08/06/2008 @ 7:50pm

Advertisement
Advertisement

Blogs

» The Beat

Feingold's Outline for a Constitutional Presidency | In a letter to Obama, Constitution subcommittee chair seeks a commitment to end executive excess.
John Nichols
Posted 18 minutes ago

» State of Change

Mukasey, Elliott Abrams Get Last-Minute Bush Appointments | Abusing the transition process to take care of aides, friends and supporters
John Nichols
Posted 19 minutes ago

» Capitolism

Yes to Special Elections for Senators | Remember the 17th amendment?
Christopher Hayes
Posted at 11:21 ET

» The Dreyfuss Report

Panetta? Ummmmm... Well..... | Could Obama have made a weirder choice for CIA director? Here's why Panetta is doomed.
Robert Dreyfuss

» Act Now!

Allow Media into Gaza | Israel is encouraging abuses by preventing foreign journalists from entering the Gaza Strip.
Peter Rothberg

» Editor's Cut

A Trillion Dollar Recovery | We don't need a stimulus, we need a recovery. And that means investing $1 trillion over the next two years.
Katrina vanden Heuvel

» The Notion

Hard Times Without Studs | One of Terkel’s former book editors considers a Studs-less world.
Tom Engelhardt

» And Another Thing

Bill Ayers Whitewashes History, Again | The Weathermen were not just a bunch of idealistic young people.
Katha Pollitt