Obama thanks Powell for endorsement

Posted: Sunday, October 19, 2008 11:24 AM by Mark Murray

From NBC/NJ's Athena Jones and NBC's Shawna Thomas
Per Obama senior adviser Robert Gibbs, Obama called Colin Powell this morning, thanked him for his endorsement, and said how honored he was to have it.

Obama "said he looked forward to taking advantage of his advice in the next two weeks and hopefully over the next four years," Gibbs said in an email to the traveling press. "They talked for ten minutes."

Meanwhile, in an interview on FOX, McCain said that Powell's endorsement of Obama wasn't surprising. "Well, I've always admired and respected Gen. Powell. We're longtime friends," McCain stated. "This doesn't come as a surprise. But I'm also very pleased to have the endorsement of four former secretaries of state, Secretaries Kissinger, Baker, Eagleburger and Haig. And I'm proud to have the endorsement of well over 200 retired Army generals and admirals. But I respect and continue to respect and admire Secretary Powell."

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Comments

Did McCain explain why the Powell endorsement of Obama wasn't a surprise?

Rich, Athens, GA (Sent Sunday, October 19, 2008 11:38 AM)

Powell's endorsement is huge. He has been a steady, perspicacious military leader, and he would choose Obama over McCain to lead us through this difficult period of international tension.

Martha Biggs, Overland Park, KS (Sent Sunday, October 19, 2008 11:40 AM)

This is a Major hoop in a long campaign that I know I'm getting so tried of..like this war..

But we are still there after the surge to maintain the peace...and the Iraqi's know we are leaving soon anyway.
The "Sunni Awakening" and "Anfar Inclusion" of Sunni involvement factor did more to maintain
(as Sadam did) with the Shite's...So "The Surge" in Obama's eyes caused less violence but divided the country back into parts and did more to lessen democracy in Iraq (thru violence) and put the very same factions Sadam used
back in power...that's why Basra exploded in violence and El Sadr factions had to go it alone..Iran became more involved.
The Brit's were back into a corner in Basra..we trained the Iraqi's and they failed in Basra..Basra is still a hell hole we do not
hear about on the news..it is a black out zone for news coverage..British news gets in only..Shites fighting Shites
the surge did not work in Basra..

these videos show that..

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aEwwI9sp4nU

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dLN3cRxazn0

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o1_U1nYzb44

The below URL explains the reason why the violence went down ..

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IZt2S3QMXr4&feature=related

Faction are holding on until we are gone..The divides in Iraq are still there...
Peace with honor is a joke The Vietnam Conclusion is in play?....
This is not freedom vs. communism..mistakes of the past must applied.
It is peace with no control. Nixon is not the answer...
The Iraqi's are not a stupid followers of Democracy.
The Shite's want their religious government (theocracy and idealic governments) to be seperate.
We can not and will never control peoples freedom for religion and self rule.
We are stuck in a quagmire that bodes against all that we stand for...
We are fighting our selves again..In that situation we both lose..
Obama has it right..the Iraqi people are not the enemy..Sadam was..He's gone..
Why are we there?

I'm sorry to get so emotional about this stuff but I hate to see Americans blinded by their
patriotic lunacy...

We need Obama.Biden even more now

BJ, CA (Sent Sunday, October 19, 2008 11:41 AM)

Noting McCain's response, it seemed he forgot to point out that he was also a POW.

Libratine (Sent Sunday, October 19, 2008 11:42 AM)

IT'S OVER (or should be). If the American people reject the most talented leader in a generation, now endorsed by the most respected Republican of our time, then we deserve four more years of McBush!

Don Judson, Woodburn, Oregon (Sent Sunday, October 19, 2008 11:43 AM)

I too thank General Colin Powell.

I appreciated his thoughtful and complete endorsement of Barack Obama.

I also liked the way Colin Powell answered questions from Tom Brokaw who seemed as nasty as usual.

He did not go on the defensive and gave simple honest answers.

I would have more respect from Republicans if they were more honest and not as partisan.

Even as a democrat I can see how McCain could have appealed. He has obviously lost his judgement and has allowed himself to be manipulated by his handlers AND sorry to say—Sarah Palin. She is really scary and a racist.

This new John McCain cannot run a country—he can't even run himself.

Thank God for Barack Obama and Joe Biden

Andrea, New York City (Sent Sunday, October 19, 2008 11:44 AM)

Colin Powell was the only character in Oliver Stone's "W" worthy of respect. In endorsing Barack Obama for President he shows the courage to stand against his party and the hateful politics of the past 8 years. I hope there is a place for him in President Obama's cabinet. Chuck Hagel please step forward.

Tom in Seattle (Sent Sunday, October 19, 2008 11:45 AM)

If you didn't watch Meet the Press and listen to Colin Powell, then watch it on the net. Powell's words are right on the mark. Obama, for many reasons, should be our next president if people vote intelligently. We can only hope the redneck racists stay home, because that who is voting for McCain.

Bee, already voted for Obama in TN (Sent Sunday, October 19, 2008 11:48 AM)

His arguments about how McCain has been running his campaign, and comments on Palin not being ready to take the reins, revealed the negative aspects of how they are going after the white vote, has sealed the fate of McCain. Powell clearly sees the need for a leader that will unite the country, not divide it. I will not be surprised if Powell is a major player in the troop withdrawal in Iraq.

Gretchen Harwood (Sent Sunday, October 19, 2008 11:49 AM)

Three times this morning already I have read the comment that "of course" General Powell was endorsing Senator Obama, as one "Black" supporting another. I suppose that means that the only possible a non-black would endorse Senator McCain is that he is "White"? So much for McCain's constant references to all those "generals and secretaries of state" who support him--and who are all very lily white "obvious" racists.

Jan, Cedar Falls, Iowa (Sent Sunday, October 19, 2008 11:49 AM)

Obama is turning heat again.

richard,columbus,ohio (Sent Sunday, October 19, 2008 11:49 AM)

Let's take inventory. Powell is an elder statesman. Kissinger is a modern day Machiavelli who helped Nixon, Baker helped steal the 2000 election & diminish the democracy. Eagleburger is a marginal partisan player & Haig is the nut who tried to take over when Reagan got shot.

Look forward to another tough week for McCain.

A Charles, LA, CA (Sent Sunday, October 19, 2008 11:52 AM)

Barack Obama is gracious as usual.
The fact that Powell does not support the
sleeziest campaign in the history of our
country is a big plus for him, as he had to
go against party to do so.
I cannot imagine any decent republican not
being embarressed, disgusted and disappointed
with the dishonorable, appalling campaign
their party is running.
And, am insulted that the republicans believe
we are so stupid.

katiec Pekin, IL (Sent Sunday, October 19, 2008 11:54 AM)

It is interesting that the endorsement considered primarily those areas which many had thought to be McCain's strengths: foreign policy, leadership, character. The economy was barely mentioned, presumbly because that will now be associated with foreign policy.

Daniel M. Zellmer (Sent Sunday, October 19, 2008 11:55 AM)

Now AMERICA starts to undestand, whats going on in this election. This election has absolute nothing to with liberals or conservatives, but americans and only americans. We need just a change at this moment of our history. We have to pass these last eight years of destruction etc.... Let all vote Barck Obama.

Jojo Agass, Denver, Colorado (Sent Sunday, October 19, 2008 11:56 AM)

The most respected Republican in modern times is voting for Barack Obama, wake up Republicans and do the right thing!!!! McCain and Palin have no place in our government at this point in time. Do you really want that woman with the power to take us to war??? She will undoubtedly end up with that power, when and if John McCain passed away. Put aside your partsain politics and do the right thing.

Dawn Tarr, Ada, Ohio (Sent Sunday, October 19, 2008 11:58 AM)

I wonder if the McCain campaign are capable of learning from this. I guess they cannot when they spin it the way they do. They just don't get it:
We despise the politics of hate, division, bigotry and ignorance. To all who say the endorsement came from the fact that one black endorsed another: How ignorant can you be? I'm white, and should that mean I should blindly endorse McCain? THINK!!

Obama/Biden 08 and 12

Judy in AZ (Sent Sunday, October 19, 2008 11:59 AM)

Obama's party is one of inclusion. Republicans welcome as well!

C.M. (Sent Sunday, October 19, 2008 12:01 PM)

McCain misses the point.

Even after being played by the Bush Administration, Colin Powell still has a favorability rating of 75% among Americans. And this is for a man who has never held an elected office.

He's probably the most well-known and well-respected veteran in the country. And this will suck the air out of the room for a few days, costing McCain precious days of the news cycle that he cannot afford to lose.

Anthony, Reno, NV (Sent Sunday, October 19, 2008 12:01 PM)

wow..he was expecting huh?... I wonder if Powell had endorsed McCain, the McCain would have downplayed the endorsement.... 16 days until election!! /vote early if u can...

w-joy (Sent Sunday, October 19, 2008 12:03 PM)

I think that former Secretary Powell, a statesman like no other, has expressed in the most eloquent and thoughtful way why Barack Obama should be our next President. Secretary Powell covered all the important dimensions of what Obama brings that McCain does not. I admire Powell's intellect and his ability to see through the noise and speak about the qualities that count.

This is GREAT news for Obama's campaign.

Bob Ryshke (Sent Sunday, October 19, 2008 12:05 PM)

The names that McCain tends to toss out are noteworthy, but from an era long gone. Young people coming out to vote may only be familiar with Powell. That's the problem with his age. He always supports his talking points with memories from a time before many of today's voters were born. They can't relate to his old experiences and they won't relate to him.

Mike, Chesterfield, NJ (Sent Sunday, October 19, 2008 12:06 PM)

Yay for Obama!

Nichole (Sent Sunday, October 19, 2008 12:07 PM)

I knew there was a good reason to respect and just plain like Colin Powell. His intelligent, articulate assessment of the nation's situation seems spot on. Equally impressive was his ability to articulate his reasons for voting Obama without renouncing his membership of of what he repeatedly called "my party", the GOP. Truly he is a great American. I hope & pray that the majority of our fellow Americans can unite in a fashion articulated by the General, if & when Obama becomes President.

Capt Bly Phoenix AZ (Sent Sunday, October 19, 2008 12:07 PM)

John McCain, divisive, class worfare politics. I am very disappointed.

nadeem (Sent Sunday, October 19, 2008 12:07 PM)

Mc cain Is bloufing

frank (Sent Sunday, October 19, 2008 12:07 PM)

Applause...

Colin Powell, Got It Right!!!

Anita Fields, Lawrenceville, Georgia (Sent Sunday, October 19, 2008 12:08 PM)

I wonder how long ago those others gave their endorsements. And I wonder how many of them would take their endorsement back now if they could.

Gayle, Punxsutawney, PA (Sent Sunday, October 19, 2008 12:08 PM)

What this endorsement means: It sends the clear signal to republicans that it is O.K. to vote for Obama. At heart there are many republicans that needed this and will know vote how they truly wanted to-Obama/Biden. I believe that this will solidify the reverse Bradley effect...aka the Palin effect.

Kristi, NE (Sent Sunday, October 19, 2008 12:08 PM)

Three Powell decisions ...prematurely ending the first gulf war. advocating entry into the second Gulf war with misrepresentations of WMDs, and endorsing Obama. Its all about patterns.

Russ Schneider, Provo, Utah (Sent Sunday, October 19, 2008 12:08 PM)

If McCain says he has "the endorsement of well over 200 retired Army generals and admirals", then the true number is probably closer to 20 based on the eggageration of the past months.

Also, i'm curious to find out why McCain is "not surprised" about Powell's endorsement? Is it because he agrees with Powell on the "narrow" track the GOPs have taken (to which McCain is a part) or is it because he's got a racial streak (like attracts like) going on?

Joe the Unaffiliated (Sent Sunday, October 19, 2008 12:09 PM)

This endorsement by Gen. Powell will show this nation that an Obama administration is by far the best choice in dealing with foreign countries around the world. Sen. Obama can lead us forward not only in our unstable economy, but in an ever changing world! Obama-Biden, this makes me glad for our country!

Leticia- rural south Texas (Sent Sunday, October 19, 2008 12:09 PM)

The blacks in this country want to pretend they have never been given any opportunities in this Great Land to justify voting for Obama. Powell can't use the same excuse so he uses the excuse that he likes Obama's policies better. Even that's a lame BS excuse after the left, Obama included, called his policies wrong and called him the most hateful names in the book. Powell is voting for Obama because they are both black. I guess the old saying is true, race before country.

toby hill, carrollton, texas (Sent Sunday, October 19, 2008 12:09 PM)

Powell's comments were balanced and respectful of both Obama and McCain. More than being a ringing endorsement of Obama personally (although they are close friends), I see the General's position being a result of the increasingly narrow target audience of the GOP and its platform. John McCain really is in an increasingly isolated position. Too bad...I think he's a good man at heart.

Paul Meshanko, Cleveland, OH (Sent Sunday, October 19, 2008 12:10 PM)

Leticia- rural south Texas (Sent Sunday, October 19, 2008 12:11 PM)

I am still, well more than, cautiously hopeful that Sen Obama will become our next president. I was one of the 100,000 supporters of Sen Obama in St Louis yesterday. It was a wonderful experience, one that I will always remember. Sen Obama has already shown that he can bring people together. No matter if they are young, old, not so old. no matter what race.

I have never been so caught up in an election before. And, I am glad to be retired so that I can be involved. This is awesome.

Evelyn, St. Louis, MO (Sent Sunday, October 19, 2008 12:11 PM)

It's a beautiful Sunday in America. Thank you, General Powell, for your courageous, thoughtful, sincere comments. You are a true leader and your support for Senator Obama is thrilling to those of us who love our country and want only better days ahead.

Lori Folz, Dallas, Texas (Sent Sunday, October 19, 2008 12:12 PM)

I admire Colin Powell for being someone who had the honesty and backbone to finally stand up and say its wrong how the GOP party is trying to insight hatered and fear in people against Obama. And shame on McCain and Palin for what the way they are running there rallies. I'm a white female in my middle 50s, and I'm going to vote for Obama! SHAME ON YOU JOHN MCcain

connie ,canton,ohio (Sent Sunday, October 19, 2008 12:12 PM)

Colin Powells lack of endorsement of a long time friend of 27 years and a fellow Republican to endorse Obama should speak volumes to other Republicans and veterans.

Powell does not endorse candidates lightly. The Reps would be jumping for joy to have this endorsement and now have no recourse other than to play it down.

Too Bad/So Sad Go Obama!

CarolO McBain MI (Sent Sunday, October 19, 2008 12:12 PM)

General Powell is a great American and is again showing he puts his country first. Wouldn't it be great to see a Secretary of Defense Powell to help get us out of this mess.

Jerry Milner, Pike Road, AL (Sent Sunday, October 19, 2008 12:12 PM)

"This doesn't come as a surprise." .... is this a implied statement that Powell is doing it as an African-American or that given the tenor of McCain it's not surprising that a principled Republican would back Obama --- I wonder.

John In IN (Sent Sunday, October 19, 2008 12:13 PM)

In watching Andrea Mitchell's remarks, I was intrigued by Ms. Mitchell's take on Obama's fundraising. She seemed to imply that Obama was effectively closing McCain out of the media markets, effectively silencing the Republican voice. My view is that perhaps Obama's actions pouring 5 million for instance into states like W. Va., is to reach out and include these voters and communities who might be feeling disenfranchised. His ability to reach out to people who have not felt included is marvelous. His inclusive policies would seem, I hope to be a precursor to a era in this country of nationwide stability and inclusiveness. I hope so, for the sake of our citizens and our children. He may well prove to be the President that our country needs and the time that we need it.

Bonnie Cannon, Kenner, La. (Sent Sunday, October 19, 2008 12:13 PM)

I certainly hope General Powell is part of President Obama's cabinet.

Larry Stokes, Denver, Co (Sent Sunday, October 19, 2008 12:13 PM)

Lori Folz, Dallas, Texas (Sent Sunday, October 19, 2008 12:14 PM)

Wow!, Powell the only man that had any remorse for his actions (the UN Speech) in the lead up to the war goes for Obama. Actually if you listen to what he said during his endorsement on Meet The Press, it was a repudiation of the Republican Party (for going too far to the right) and the McCain campaign itself for focusing on things that didn't matter (Ayers). And he is the first person of substance to really say that Palin isn't qualified for the times, and that her pick reflects back on McCain. For those of us who follow politics, it was ironic that McCain was so adamant about getting a repudiation from Obama from Lewis, well McCain got his repudiation, but it was from Powell on McCain. I had asked for months at work
"so what if Obama WAS a Muslim?, why would that matter?". Powell showed how bigoted the "muslim" thing is. He must know that he wouldnt be accepted by his former party again, that makes it all the brave.

ron pitts, High Point, North Carolina (Sent Sunday, October 19, 2008 12:14 PM)

No one should ever vote because of the endorement of an individual. It doesn't matter wheather they are actors, singers, famous for doing something, a vote is something an individual should live with. McCain will still win on Nov 4 THAT IS AN ABSOLUTE FACT.

Alaska

Hilmer Kiser, Seward, Alaska (Sent Sunday, October 19, 2008 12:15 PM)

I think the impact of the Powell endorsement is HUGE! He is perhaps one of the very few people attached to this current administration that is admired for having the courage to move away from the GOP. General Powell so eloquently laid out the case for not voting for John McCain and once again it boils down to a matter of judgement, temperment and world perception. The world wants the US to LEAD that will never happen with McCain/Palin in the Whitehouse.

lenora levine West Wareham, Ma (Sent Sunday, October 19, 2008 12:16 PM)

Not surprised ? Because he is black, right McCain ? Bigot.

Frank, MO (Sent Sunday, October 19, 2008 12:16 PM)

McCain you sound like a sad looser. This did not come easy to Powell, but he sees what you have done, first negative campaign, lies, reckless in economy, and final your judgement in picking Palin (extremist). Now we thank Powell for standing up against Party to make a choice for the good of our Nation, OBAMA for President.

Mark (Sent Sunday, October 19, 2008 12:17 PM)

If this endorsement helps Obama to win then I'm all for it!!!!! I like the fact that Powell specifically said he doesn't like mccain's negative campaign and doesn't feel that palin is ready to be President! All true and I'm happy he said this in a public arena!!!!!!!
Go Obama!

Susan Kunin, Spokane, WA. (Sent Sunday, October 19, 2008 12:18 PM)

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