First thoughts: Obama's wider map

never fooled by Obama — Thu, 05 Jun 2008 13:35:28 GMT

Lets go McCain. Obama must not be POTUS--would not be good for America.

First thoughts: Obama's wider map

Kim W Virginia Beach, VA — Thu, 05 Jun 2008 13:36:33 GMT

Tim Kaine as a VP choice? HAHAHAHAHA!! He can't even fix the transportation problem in Southeastern VA..He would be a very weak choice. Jim Webb..Maybe..

And Hillary..Please take your name off the ballot. That's evil to keep it on there. You are giving false hope to your voters and this is not party unity. You should be convincing your 18 million voters to get their heads out of their arses and support the Democratic nominee.. Evil, vile..woman.

First thoughts: Obama's wider map

Pat Huntington NY — Thu, 05 Jun 2008 13:37:29 GMT

Florida isn't a toss up...its clearly a McCain state.

First thoughts: Obama's wider map

sotiredofignorance — Thu, 05 Jun 2008 13:40:26 GMT

When the Clintons find out that they will be vetted just like any other VP candidate, they will finally step out of the race. Neither one of them is going to be open about funding for the Presidential library, and the people who pay Pres. Clinton large amounts of money for speeches. Secrecy has always been Hillary's greatest failing.

Senator Clinton behaved poorly, and still does not seem to recognize that she has lost. It is not up to her to make demands, like having her name placed in nomination at the convention. I hope her supporters take a strong line with her about that as well.

First thoughts: Obama's wider map

Eric, Salinas, CA — Thu, 05 Jun 2008 13:40:47 GMT

It's going to be a big eye opener this fall as Obama rewrites the electoral map. Barack has the kind of ground game the repugnant ones can only dream of and Barack can attract and inspire crowds that the boring old panderer can't.

Barack will be able to attack the repugnant ones in the states they once thought were theirs. After seeing 3 of the repugnant ones bite the dust in special elections that's just a taste of things to come in November.

Goi Obama 08/12!

First thoughts: Obama's wider map

c barnes — Thu, 05 Jun 2008 13:41:08 GMT

New Hampshire may only have 4 votes but it's not a toss up. It's now solid blue. I was born and brought up in that state and know it well. It's reversal in political philosophy is mind boggling but real.

First thoughts: Obama's wider map

Obama — Thu, 05 Jun 2008 13:42:13 GMT

Pat, stop being such a hater!~

First thoughts: Obama's wider map

BB, tampa, fl. — Thu, 05 Jun 2008 13:44:10 GMT

I was a Democrat up until Yesterday win I filled out application to become Independent. I will never vote for Obama.
I live in Fl. and will be casting my vote in Nov. for McCain.

First thoughts: Obama's wider map

tood — Thu, 05 Jun 2008 13:44:28 GMT

i agree that florida will go for mccain but some of the mccainstates would turn blue because of turnout

Whats Change?
Lets Unite, Lets Change the country
Clinton to concede
Electoral Maps for the general election

http://sensico.wordpress.com/

First thoughts: Obama's wider map

Eric, Salinas, CA — Thu, 05 Jun 2008 13:46:09 GMT

The worst thing Obama could do is have Hillary and Bill hanging around his neck like deadweights. They have too many negatives to help Obama get elected. I liked hearing last night that the Obama camp will not be pushed around and will make their own selection. I got a laugh that the Obama camp is demanding that Bill get vetted on his donors for his foundation and library, which is fair game in the general election.

I like that Barack is being careful and deliberate in his VP search. Personally I'd like to see Caroline Kennedy as his VP choice but I still think that Wesley Clark would be the best fit to give the ticket some powerful military experience. Whomever he picks I'll trust him to make the smart decision.

Go Obama 08/12!

First thoughts: Obama's wider map

My Friends — Thu, 05 Jun 2008 13:46:18 GMT

FirstRead...are you baiting the GOP...
The GOP can't buy enough votes...
This is a landslide year for the Dem's
By the end of summer there will be this giant tsunami of voters rejecting McWar and those GOP failed policies....

First thoughts: Obama's wider map

A Charles, LA, CA — Thu, 05 Jun 2008 13:46:31 GMT

You're right Pat, FL is Republican. All this talk of a dem carrying it is a joke.

As we've seen any strategy that relies on FL is flawed & doomed to fail.

First thoughts: Obama's wider map

Truthteller, Reality Check, USA — Thu, 05 Jun 2008 13:49:56 GMT

The "roll-out" of Lieberman made him an instant asset to Gore? Are you kidding? Do you really think that this country would vote to have any Jewish person a heartbeat away from the presidency (except the diehard Democrats in the always blue state of NY)? Why do you think Gore lost the election? Not only was Lieberman Jewish, but he was not 'liberal' enough to energize the liberal turnout. Why did the MSM never even address the anti-semitic vote in all of this -- anti-semitism remains an unacknowledged and politically incorrect-to-even-mention evil in this country

First thoughts: Obama's wider map

Michelle Zee — Thu, 05 Jun 2008 13:50:08 GMT

Here comes teh Rezko drama; who cares? That is not going to help Americans pay for gas.

If this year is about the issues, Dems win.

How can McCain run on a military experience platform when he didn't show up to vote for the biggest military benefit in years.

McBush is no saint and 95% voting with Bush tells her he is no smart cookie either.

He doesn't care about the wounded service members, hell he didn't even care his first wife was wounded from her accident. He left her for the beer heiress.

Repubs, whatever you can not talk about the issues, but there is enough on McCain to also circulate as well.

If I was a "bitter" republican mad about McBush being your only hope as the nominee, I wouldn't want to talk about how the republicans screwed over the American people either.

First thoughts: Obama's wider map

Brendan D, Niles, IL — Thu, 05 Jun 2008 13:50:08 GMT

Hey Chuck,

Not to argue with your insight or anything, 'cause you're freakin' brilliant with numbers, but I'm not sure I'd say Kansas is part of McCain's base, or that North Carolina "leans McCain." I'd also question whether Maine leans Obama or is more of a toss-up; and whether we can really say that Florida, with its aged population, is truly a toss-up or leans more towards McCain. But naturally, these are minor quibbles, and we probably won't even have a clue how many of these states are going to go for a month or so.

I really, really think Obama has an outside shot at winning Kansas. That (and more) will be off-set by the fact that I'm almost positive McCain wins Florida -- but the fact that states like Virginia, North Carolina, Mississippi, and Georgia are even remotely in play does not bode well for McCain.

First thoughts: Obama's wider map

If Obama is a Christian, then why does he still his Muslim name? — Thu, 05 Jun 2008 13:50:39 GMT

I once was very excited about the upcoming presidential election. I remember the 1990's and was sure this country would want that kind of economy back. Well half of the Democratic Party has spoken. No matter if Hillary is the V.P. or not I will sit this one out. My wife is also going to sit this one out. This will be the first Presidential race I will not participate in since I was a youth. There is one question that has been burning on my mind lately. If Barrack is a Christian, then why does he still wear his Muslim name? If someone could answer that, then maybe I could actually vote for the man. You know to be a Christian means to turn your back on your old life, and focus on your Christian journey. I just don’t believe nor trust him. Disheartened Independent.

First thoughts: Obama's wider map

ge`pa`` — Thu, 05 Jun 2008 13:51:31 GMT

In regard to states, you might as well throw out Pa, ohio, fl., mich., and especially West Virgina, `they don't like being called `toothless, uneducated, etc. & PA is hillary country & Fl. & Mich don't like him because he disenfranchised them.

First thoughts: Obama's wider map

jerry/corpus christi texas — Thu, 05 Jun 2008 13:51:38 GMT

For all the talk about democrats and liberals about a united front against us republicans, you guys sure are still split down the middle as far as man/woman & black/white.

Hillary would really be a bad choice for Obama. He needs someone that is honest, since honesty will play a big part of whether Obama gets elected or not.

First thoughts: Obama's wider map

Kate in Atlanta — Thu, 05 Jun 2008 13:51:42 GMT

Oh, Bob Barr, won't you please help us turn this peach state Blue?!?!?

First thoughts: Obama's wider map

Alex, MA — Thu, 05 Jun 2008 13:52:22 GMT

Pat Huntington you are mistaken! Don't pay attention whatsoever for the early June polls - they are meaningless. GE campaign just started and I can guarantee you - within 2-3 weeks Obama will pull even or very, very close to McBush in FL. Mark my word for it.

First thoughts: Obama's wider map

Pat, Boston, MA — Thu, 05 Jun 2008 13:52:39 GMT

Jim Webb
Washington Post
September 2002

…America's best military leaders know that they are accountable to history not only for how they fight wars, but also for how they prevent them. The greatest military victory of our time -- bringing an expansionist Soviet Union in from the cold while averting a nuclear holocaust -- was accomplished not by an invasion but through decades of intense maneuvering and continuous operations. With respect to the situation in Iraq, they are conscious of two realities that seem to have been lost in the narrow debate about Saddam Hussein himself. The first reality is that wars often have unintended consequences -- ask the Germans, who in World War I were convinced that they would defeat the French in exactly 42 days. The second is that a long-term occupation of Iraq would beyond doubt require an adjustment of force levels elsewhere, and could eventually diminish American influence in other parts of the world.

Other than the flippant criticisms of our "failure" to take Baghdad during the Persian Gulf War, one sees little discussion of an occupation of Iraq, but it is the key element of the current debate. The issue before us is not simply whether the United States should end the regime of Saddam Hussein, but whether we as a nation are prepared to physically occupy territory in the Middle East for the next 30 to 50 years. Those who are pushing for a unilateral war in Iraq know full well that there is no exit strategy if we invade and stay. This reality was the genesis of a rift that goes back to the Gulf War itself, when neoconservatives were vocal in their calls for "a MacArthurian regency in Baghdad." Their expectation is that the United States would not only change Iraq's regime but also remain as a long-term occupation force in an attempt to reconstruct Iraqi society itself.

The connotations of "a MacArthurian regency in Baghdad" show how inapt the comparison is. Our occupation forces never set foot inside Japan until the emperor had formally surrendered and prepared Japanese citizens for our arrival. Nor did MacArthur destroy the Japanese government when he took over as proconsul after World War II. Instead, he was careful to work his changes through it, and took pains to preserve the integrity of Japan's imperial family. Nor is Japanese culture in any way similar to Iraq's. The Japanese are a homogeneous people who place a high premium on respect, and they fully cooperated with MacArthur's forces after having been ordered to do so by the emperor. The Iraqis are a multiethnic people filled with competing factions who in many cases would view a U.S. occupation as infidels invading the cradle of Islam. Indeed, this very bitterness provided Osama bin Laden the grist for his recruitment efforts in Saudi Arabia when the United States kept bases on Saudi soil after the Gulf War.

In Japan, American occupation forces quickly became 50,000 friends. In Iraq, they would quickly become 50,000 terrorist targets.

Nations such as China can only view the prospect of an American military consumed for the next generation by the turmoil of the Middle East as a glorious windfall. Indeed, if one gives the Chinese credit for having a long-term strategy -- and those who love to quote Sun Tzu might consider his nationality -- it lends credence to their insistent cultivation of the Muslim world. One should not take lightly the fact that China previously supported Libya, that Pakistan developed its nuclear capability with China's unrelenting assistance and that the Chinese sponsored a coup attempt in Indonesia in 1965. An "American war" with the Muslims, occupying the very seat of their civilization, would allow the Chinese to isolate the United States diplomatically as they furthered their own ambitions in South and Southeast Asia.

These concerns, and others like them, are the reasons that many with long experience in U.S. national security issues remain unconvinced by the arguments for a unilateral invasion of Iraq. Unilateral wars designed to bring about regime change and a long-term occupation should be undertaken only when a nation's existence is clearly at stake. It is true that Saddam Hussein might try to assist international terrorist organizations in their desire to attack America. It is also true that if we invade and occupy Iraq without broad-based international support, others in the Muslim world might be encouraged to intensify the same sort of efforts. And it is crucial that our national leaders consider the impact of this proposed action on our long-term ability to deter aggression elsewhere.

Obama/Webb 2008

First thoughts: Obama's wider map

Houston — Thu, 05 Jun 2008 13:53:11 GMT

Below is a response to yesterday's FirstRead, which didn't get posted although Rachel Maddow did point out the same facts on Olbermann's show that none of the mostly McCain-friendly corporate media was willing to acknowledge:
-------------------------------------------

"The truth is, McCain just isn’t a podium guy. He needs the microphone in his hand and the ability to speak off the cuff."

The truth is that McCain made most of his disturbingly whacko statements while speaking off the cuff:

* McCain repeated his false claim that Shia Iran would train their deadly enemy, the Sunni Al Qaeda;

* He made the flippant comment that he doesn't care if the US has troops in Iraq for 100 years was made at a town hall meeting -- a statement that surely enraged all Iraqis, who want US troops out yesterday.

* He asserted that he could "look you in the eye" and tell you that the US troops in Iraq had been drawn down to pre-surge levels, a claim that was false and displayed more apalling ignorance of foreign policy, which he hasn't mastered despite his many photo opportunities in Iraq.

* He was speaking off the cuff when he gave his lame excuse for voting to block legislation that would have made the laws more just concerning the time limits when women could sue for wage discrimination. He said the problem wasnt' discrimination and that what women really needed was more "education and training."

Of course, his claim yesterday that the Democratic nominee was selected by "party elders" was not off the cuff. It was a deliberate lie prepared in advance. Keith Olbermann correctly pointed out that McCain's lying speech was ironically interrupted by the primary results from South Dakota, where delegates chosen by the PEOPLE of the state put Obama over the top.

First thoughts: Obama's wider map

America for Obama — Thu, 05 Jun 2008 13:55:47 GMT

Florida will be a republican State. Too many rich people live in that state to be dems.

** For discounts on Barack Obama products $8.99 & Up. Use this coupon at this Obama Store http://www.MyObamaStore.com
Coupon - Obama-X2Y9-10 (10% OFF)

First thoughts: Obama's wider map

Pat Huntington NY — Thu, 05 Jun 2008 13:58:29 GMT

I posted this in response to another article, but feel it deserves a reposting here too:

To those Hillary supporters who say they will vote McCain...I suspect you are republicans and part of operation chaos, because:

1. Hillary and Obama are on the same page with almost all the major issues.
2. McCain will appoint Scalia types to Sup. Ct., thereby ensuring the overturning of Roe v Wade...thus, Hillary supporters would be voting to end reproductive rights in America.
3. How can you trust someone who will continued Bush's failed economic and foreign policies?
4. McCain can't be trusted due to his Keating 5 days.
5. WWIII will be a certainty with a war monger like McCain.
and...
6. Who do you think will make up Obama's cabinet, advisors, etc? Most will be those who were part of Fromer Pres. Clinton's administration.

So, it is not only illogical for Hillary supporters to say they will vote McCain now, it is a sign of mental illness!

First thoughts: Obama's wider map

some guy — Thu, 05 Jun 2008 13:58:40 GMT

Obama is continuing the process that Gore and Kerry started: consolidating the "solid north" of the post-civil war Republicans!

How ironic is that--it's the mirror image response to the former "solid south" that the Republicans have taken over in the past few decades.

In 2006, liberal-to-moderate Republicans were decimated in the Northeast and Midwest. Now the Democrats will branch out into surrounding states like VA and NC, as well as following Tom Schaller's advice and going West to CO, NM, MT, etc.

First thoughts: Obama's wider map

CRAIG SALZMAN — Thu, 05 Jun 2008 13:59:30 GMT

ANYONE WHO THINKS ABOUT SWITCHING FROM DEMOCRAT TO REPUBLICAN REALLY IS NOT THINKING .YOU HAVE NOT STRUGGLED ENOUGH. YOU WANT TO BE PAYING $8.00 FOR GAS AND STAY IN IRAQ FOR ANOTHER 100 YEARS AND MOST IMPORTANT CAN'T AFFORD TO LIVE VOTE FOR MCCAIN IF YOU WANT THESE THINGS

First thoughts: Obama's wider map

RD — Thu, 05 Jun 2008 14:00:05 GMT

Caroline Kennedy as Obama's VEEP selectee would give ALL of the Voters exactly what they want..... this would be an unstoppable pairing!!! and INSURE a Democratic win in November. Caroline is squeeky clean,unasailable and a history maker as the first woman VP. She is exactly what the Dems need to unite them and bleed massive numbers of Replublicans to vote for this dynamic duo!!!

OBAMA/KENNEDY 08

First thoughts: Obama's wider map

James Tn — Thu, 05 Jun 2008 14:01:00 GMT

Lets go Obama the Old man cant whipp you......McCain must not be POTUS it will be bad for our soldiers and the entire middle east.........No more wars.......

First thoughts: Obama's wider map

ID, GA — Thu, 05 Jun 2008 14:03:33 GMT

GA and NC will turn blue.

First thoughts: Obama's wider map

Jim Patrick, Buffalo, NY — Thu, 05 Jun 2008 14:03:53 GMT

Bill Clinton may balk at releasing records of his business dealings and big donors to his presidential library, according to the WSJ.

Chelsea too as active participant in the dynastic Clinton quest will surely need to bare for Obama advisory committee scrutiny her own high finance hedge fund dealings and investments so the Republicans will not be handed an issue for exploitation later.

First thoughts: Obama's wider map

donna — Thu, 05 Jun 2008 14:04:11 GMT

The machines that read the debit/credit cards, as we buy gas, food, and homes, etc., are neither red, nor blue.

They're colorblind. I think a colorblind GE will make history this election cycle, from skin, to maps.

First thoughts: Obama's wider map

Clara Kansas City, MO — Thu, 05 Jun 2008 14:06:51 GMT

How significant are the down wind elections? My thoughts are that I don't want Obama to pick a senator as his vp. We are barely hanging on to our lead there and we are going to be losing Obama's senate seat when he wins. I like the way he outlined the Republicans strategy. Basically dismissing the 'fear mongering' and rumor mill. It was a great point in his speech yesterday when he said, "Let me know about this Barack Obama, he sounds scary". The absurdity of the charges are vast. I continue to point people to snopes.com, at least weekly. McCain's speech was unintentionally funny, as well when he said, "...I don't know why they say I am Bush's 3rd term..." or something to that effect. Because we learned from Rove/Bush that if you repeat it often enough; sheople are too lazy to research and refute it. Further, I believe that Obama/McCain town hall meetings are intriguing. However, if I were Obama - I would be much more forceful about determining where and when. McCain is trying to tap into his ability to fill large venues. But I see a positive in Obama speaking to the independents that they both draw. Finally, I am optimistic that Bob Barr presents the distraction needed to pull the conservatives out of play. PS. I thought I was done, but I have to speak to Hillary's final stand, finally. My take this week is that the polls had indicated that 20-30% of her supporters said they would leave. So again, it was disingenuos math to say she was taking her 18MM voters and going home. Most of the people I know that voted for her early on had major buyers remorse and had become Obama fans long before the finish line. He may lose a few million, sadly; but he stands to make great gains with Obamicans who would never vote for a Clinton. The "polarizing" effect.

First thoughts: Obama's wider map

Old White Woman in Missouri — Thu, 05 Jun 2008 14:07:12 GMT

I believe the intelligence of the people, not party affiliation, will win this election...

I'm so pleased this has unfolded as it has...

My sons have always voted Repub, but this year are voting on vision for the future... Obama...

First thoughts: Obama's wider map

Celia in Michigan — Thu, 05 Jun 2008 14:07:59 GMT

Rezko is old news, the new trial to watch is Bill and HRC's fraud trial in California. Someone on thier side is about to be charged with Contempt of court.

HRC doesn't have to testify till after the General, but Bill, HRC, Chelsea, Ed Rendell, Harold Ickes, Howard Wolfson and many other DNC Big Wigs are going to have to testify in this case along with Hollywood's A list of entertainers.

First thoughts: Obama's wider map

GA GUY — Thu, 05 Jun 2008 14:08:51 GMT

Prediction:

Obama takes FL, MI, OH, and PA in November!! (;D

First thoughts: Obama's wider map

OBwan, IN — Thu, 05 Jun 2008 14:09:38 GMT

I have not had FL in Dem column since Reagan.
If the Dems took FL there would really huge problems for Repub in other states.

MO should be a toss up - St. Louis and KC go Dem, rural areas go Repub. It is just the make-up of the state. It will all be about turnout.
Hey, just rememeber John Ashcroft's in unsuccessful senate race in 2000.

First thoughts: Obama's wider map

Amy B Portland, ME — Thu, 05 Jun 2008 14:10:42 GMT

Never been to Florida and don't wanna go. We will win without them.

First thoughts: Obama's wider map

The Truth — Thu, 05 Jun 2008 14:11:27 GMT

Senator John McCain is the only Republican who promises to end the George Bush style of governing from and on behalf of a small, angry fringe. With a record of working across the aisle to develop sound bipartisan legislation, he would offer a choice to a broader range of Americans than the rest of the Republican field.

We have shuddered at Mr. McCain’s occasional, tactical pander to the right because he has demonstrated that he has the character to stand on principle. He was an early advocate for battling global warming and risked his presidential bid to uphold fundamental American values in the immigration debate. A genuine war hero among Republicans who proclaim their zeal to be commander in chief, Mr. McCain argues passionately that a country’s treatment of prisoners in the worst of times says a great deal about its character.

Mr. McCain was one of the first prominent Republicans to point out how badly the war in Iraq was being managed. We wish he could now see as clearly past the temporary victories produced by Mr. Bush’s unsustainable escalation, which have not led to any change in Iraq’s murderous political calculus. At the least, he owes Americans a real idea of how he would win this war, which he says he can do. We disagree on issues like reproductive rights and gay marriage.

In 2006, however, Mr. McCain stood up for the humane treatment of prisoners and for a ban on torture. We said then that he was being conned by Mr. Bush, who had no intention of following the rules. But Mr. McCain took a stand, just as he did in recognizing the threat of global warming early. He has been a staunch advocate of campaign finance reform, working with Senator Russ Feingold, among the most liberal of Democrats, on groundbreaking legislation, just as he worked with Senator Edward Kennedy on immigration reform.

Senator McCain is clearly the best choice for this great nation.

Vote for security.
Vote for fiscal restraint.
Vote for experience.
Vote for bipartisanship.
Vote for John McCain.

First thoughts: Obama's wider map

More Truth — Thu, 05 Jun 2008 14:11:43 GMT

I am and will continue to be astounded by Obamas nomination. I have been following both the democrat and republican campaigns and cannot believe how much has been ignored by both the media and Obama followers. I cannot believe this man has lost so many states by such big margins and the democrats actually believe he will win in Nov. What the heck am i missing here? Obama is going to re-write the electoral map-are they serious? Many of the states he won in have been red for decades and Obama is going to change all of that? how? by turning water into wine. The caucus states don't reflect the electorate. What are the democrats thinking. Speeches in front of huge crowds don't translate into votes-we know that.

First thoughts: Obama's wider map

Dave24@hotmail.com — Thu, 05 Jun 2008 14:11:55 GMT

It's a shame that Hillary is dropping out; because as we have seen with this campaign, Obama lost steam due to his inability to really explain and be held to his positions on all kinds of topics. The Rev Wright and Trinity showed him to be indecisive and inexperienced in handling issues. He would get eaten alive if he went to Washington and we as a nation would be far worse off then now. (If you can believe that could happen). The only issue in this campaign is that Obama is too inexperienced. Period. Hillary dropping out gives a big boost to McCain and I now believe McCain will win in November. I never thought in a million years that the Democrats could give away a no brainer election, but they just did.

Sad for America.

First thoughts: Obama's wider map

Tom S., Prov., RI — Thu, 05 Jun 2008 14:11:56 GMT

Indiana, Missouri, North Carolina: all could be toss-ups before long.

First thoughts: Obama's wider map

John, OH — Thu, 05 Jun 2008 14:12:06 GMT

The old saying rings true with obama. If you lay down with dogs your going to wake up with fleas! I will never vote for a man I do not trust. I am not a bigot. This is purely about his character. No amount of campaigning will fix that. The American public are seeing Obama's true colors with his close ties to radicial people. He might have won the battle but he will lose the war!

First thoughts: Obama's wider map

Joy C — Thu, 05 Jun 2008 14:12:19 GMT

Obama will never get my vote. I have never voted republican before but I will now.
His judgement is off, his character is dubious, he has no integrity, and he does not represent America. I cannot vote for a racist of ANY color. I cannot vote for a Terrorist supporter.

I cannot vote for someone who does not put the honor of America before his own honor.
Besides, I don't recall the Cemocratic convention as having taken place yet. Super delegates do not actually vote until the CONVENTION. Kinda like saying I won in the 8th inning because I will get 3 home runs in the ninth, so lets just proclaim me the winner and not play the game out, or saying that I am ahead so lets not play the 4th quarter because it is projected that I will get 3 touchdowns and knock you out. Hillary has more support from the people. The popular vote is hers-he lost that.

Now the superdelegates wish to play the supreme court justices and give over the nomination to the weakest candidate. I thought that Obama had South Dakota all locked up by a landslide? What happened? The Rev Wright and Trinity Church? Obama is weak and growing weaker; people are seeing him for who he really is - a typical Chicago political hack.

Neither candidate to date has the VOTED delegates to win.

I would not even vote for Obama with Hillary on the ticket, he is too dangerous for America, not God D--- America.

First thoughts: Obama's wider map

MI Chick — Thu, 05 Jun 2008 14:12:23 GMT

How can you not like this guy?
Amy B Portland, ME (Sent Wednesday, June 04, 2008 1:50 PM)

*****************************************************
Easily if you use common sense and intelligence.
FedUpDem, Washington, DC (Sent Wednesday, June 04, 2008 2:17 PM)

**********************************************************
Which is what you are saying we (as Obama supporters) do not have?

This man has more class and dignity in his little finger that HRC has in her entire body. She had to be coerced - COERCED! - into conceding, and even then she has to have two events to do it in.
I think your venom is misdirected, FedUpDem.

To those you of you who say that he can't read without a TeleprompTer - I say 'gee, someone who THINKS before he SPEAKS' - wow, what a horrible thought. 'Cause Cowboy George does so well reading his speeches. His speechwriters have to dumb down the words so he can understand them, and he still screws them up. Heaven help him if he actually has to speak w/o a script!

McLame is quickly assuming Bush's mantle of idiocy. If you are so blinded by rage and deflected entitlement that you will vote for McCain that it is YOU who lacks the common sense and intelligence of which you speak.

First thoughts: Obama's wider map

Hillary / McCain Democrats — Thu, 05 Jun 2008 14:12:37 GMT

We will vote for a "3rd Bush term" with McCain before we would ever vote for a black Anti-American.

Al Gore, please come to the rescue! Save our party from what it's about to do. This is a sad, sad day for America.

First thoughts: Obama's wider map

Sigmond, CA — Thu, 05 Jun 2008 14:12:51 GMT

Obama has no new ideas, offering only the same old liberal ideas that have never worked. America is not about to make a sudden left turn to a socialist style system with more taxes and big government.

First thoughts: Obama's wider map

more of The Truth — Thu, 05 Jun 2008 14:13:09 GMT

TO BE A GOOD DEMOCRAT OR TO BE A GOOD AMERICAN. John McCain is not the same as George Bush; in fact a few years ago he was going to leave the Republican party become an Independent and joining the Democratic caucus in the Senate. The Democrats will control Congress so there is no need to worry about Roe v Wade or ultra conservative justices being appointed to the Supreme Court. As for Iraq, nobody will be able to pull out all the troops within 16 months; we will have a presence there just like we do in other foreign countries. We need to earn the respect back of the American citizens and world leaders by electing the right person to be the President of the United States; he/she should have demonstrated good judgment, honesty, and integrity.--- Hillary or McCain.

Country first, then party.

First thoughts: Obama's wider map

hypocrites — Thu, 05 Jun 2008 14:13:12 GMT

FIRST READ: Where's your lead on Eric Holder's background? Might be interesting to some of the Obama supporters who BASHED Clinton for pardoning FALN members since he do so on Holder's advice. They might also like to know it was Holder who got Rich pardoned also. I suppose maybe he "repented" his sins, the Messiah O forgave him and now he's a good little follower.

First thoughts: Obama's wider map

Cedric, Columbia, MD — Thu, 05 Jun 2008 14:16:04 GMT

As I watch the blog post I am becoming increasingly concerned about the many supporters of Sen. Clinton who are suggesting they will vote for John McCain. I assume the vast majority of her supporters believe not only in her ability to be President but also in the policies that she would have enacted as President.

That being said I ask, no, I implore you to reconsider voting for McCain to spite the Democratic Party for not electing your candidate to be its nominee. If you don’t feel particularly loyal to the party (which I understand) please be loyal to your candidate.

John McCain has promised to overturn Rowe v. Wade through his choices for Supreme Court Justices.

John McCain (CPT, USN, ret.) has stood in opposition to a new GI bill that would send Iraq veterans to college simply because he doesn’t fell that being shot at during multiple 12 and 16 month tours should be considered “sufficient” service to the country.

John McCain has said that the mortgage crisis that was perpetuated partly by his own economic advisor as well as through consistent de-regulation of oversight agencies is not the government’s responsibility to correct.

John McCain voted against a law that would punish employers for unequal pay for women who hold the same or comparable positions as men. He said it would cause “too many lawsuits”. (I thought the point of civil justice was to give the people standing to air grievances against the system)

These views do not just stand in opposition to Sen. Hillary Clinton; I suggest that they offend her. It would be a shame to force her to explain to her daughter and maybe her future granddaughters why they can’t hope to receive equal pay or why their friends don’t have healthcare or why their body isn’t theirs to make decisions about all because her supporters abandoned her corps beliefs in a fit of anger, disappointment or both.

Please do not allow disappointment to prevail. The choices he makes will be burdened on our children and grand-children. Will we tell them that the reason women’s rights have been set back a decade is because we were angry at the results of the primary season? Will we tell our children that their civil liberties have been exchanged for spite and mistrust? Throughout this season young people have come out in droves to support a hopeful future. It is not because they are naive; it is just that we taught them that hard work can achieve anything.

Lastly, as a long time supporter of the Clintons I know that Sen. Clinton would have made a great President. A leader that would be remembers for generations to come. The truth is Sen. Obama will too. And that she may still be a great President in the future but I know as fact that her leadership and her legacy is not dependent on the office of the President, but it is dependent on your support of her positions more than your support of her.

Thank You

First thoughts: Obama's wider map

Anne/Ohio — Thu, 05 Jun 2008 14:16:55 GMT

Ohio will go Dem this fall!

First thoughts: Obama's wider map

cheney for vp — Thu, 05 Jun 2008 14:16:55 GMT

mccain and cheney what a team

First thoughts: Obama's wider map

Eric, Indiana — Thu, 05 Jun 2008 14:17:07 GMT

Toss-up: CO, FL, IA, MI, NV, NM, NH, OH, PA, VA, WI (138 votes)

Obama WILL WIN... Colorado, Iowa, Michigan, New Mexico, New Hampshire, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Virginia and Wisconsin.

McCain wins Florida and Nevada

Obama '08

First thoughts: Obama's wider map

Rod, Louisville, KY — Thu, 05 Jun 2008 14:18:58 GMT

If Bill couldn't pass the vetting to have Hillary as VP how did she ever expect to make it through the GOP ringer as the nominee?

First thoughts: Obama's wider map

The - Democrat Soldier — Thu, 05 Jun 2008 14:19:02 GMT

Pat Huntington NY - Clearly you are a republican and clearly your mind is still set in the past. This is a new day in politics. It is not the old of 2000 and 2004 in which FL was a based for the GOP. We have a stronger candidate and he will not allow the GOP to manipulate the voting process to disenfranchise voters and we will not allow a FL state representative control the outcome of that state election. IN other words - the GOP will not steal the votes of the FL people and certainly not steal this election. IT will not happen we will fight this to the end. IF there is any slight notice, sign, attempt, etc. We supporters will go bankrupt to help the Democratic Party do whatever they need to do to not let this happen again.

NO WAY JOHN MCCAIN WINS

Thank you and GOD BLESS AMERICA

First thoughts: Obama's wider map

Jan, Nashua, NH — Thu, 05 Jun 2008 14:19:51 GMT

They both have 200 and the toss-ups equal 69 each, for 269 each. A tie where no one wins. LOL!

Now, look again at the toss-up states.
Do you seriously believe BHO is going to take the big swing states? He's already proven that he can't.

And for my fellow New Hampshirite:
Do you think the folks in NH are going to relate to Barack Obama's congregation, and the hooting and hollering we can all witness in the background as BHO's preacher is screaming, "God Damn America!!!"

BHO didn't win NH BEFORE Jeremiah Wright came on the scene.

McC's "guilt by association" with GWB worse than BHO's "guilt by association" with his own racist congregation for the last 20 years????
No contest here in NH, as far as I can tell.

In addition, I know of no Clinton supporter in NH who will support BHO after BHO's Billy Shaheen bs.

First thoughts: Obama's wider map

Paul Miller, Woodbridge, VA — Thu, 05 Jun 2008 14:20:07 GMT

I agree with Kim. Anyone who thinks Kaine would help Obama carry Virginia isn't from Virginia. Not that Kaine is completely disrespected (like, say, Gilmore), but he's seen as Warner's little brother, who only got to the governor's mansion because of Warner.

Obama may carry Virginia on his own. The only running mate who would help him here would be Warner.

But then there's that nagging question of what dirt the Clinton campaign found on Warner back in 2006 that kept him out of the presidential race, and thus brought Obama into the race.

For those who don't know, Obama wasn't running if Warner did; within days of declaring his candidacy, Obama was in Richmond with Warner and Kaine; and Warner's contacts outside Virginia were the initial basis for Obama fundraising.

First thoughts: Obama's wider map

J. Merle Stanley, Westchester, NY — Thu, 05 Jun 2008 14:20:41 GMT

Oh please....now you're going to try and convince us that Obama is going to win.
How about some coverage of the Rezko conviction, instead of burying it?

First thoughts: Obama's wider map

James, Montgomery, AL — Thu, 05 Jun 2008 14:21:39 GMT

Politically, I do not beleive that Sen. Clinton would make a good VP choice but that is because she doesn't fit Obama's message well. I just wish that posters would cease these needless attacks on her. We Obama supporters have been complaining for months at her actions that seem to lack class and grace and that she doesn't accept defeat with dignaty. That may or may not be true but what is true is that bashing her as a VP choice shows the same lack of class, grace and dignity.

I think Sen. Obama would be dissapointed.

OBAMA '08

First thoughts: Obama's wider map

J. Merle Stanley, Westchester, NY — Thu, 05 Jun 2008 14:22:15 GMT

By the way, THIS lifetime Democrat won't be voting for Obama in November either.
I'll be voting for McCain.

First thoughts: Obama's wider map

Obama/Clinton '08 — Thu, 05 Jun 2008 14:23:42 GMT

Hey Obama and Clinton supporters,

These people who try to drum up support to vote for McCain instead of Obama as a protest are just Rep. hacks hired by Karl Rove.

First thoughts: Obama's wider map

Elise Denton, TX — Thu, 05 Jun 2008 14:23:42 GMT

As pres. nom., Obama should not feel pressured to pick Clinton - with all the baggage she'll certainly be dragging behind her.

We've all seen that her presence would do Obama more harm than good - and thanks to her, the Republicans know exactly where to aim.

Hillary had her chance to concede humbly and graciously, but she blew it. And don't think for a moment that Americans will forget this in 2012. We are too smart to vote for this woman a second time.

Obama 08/12

First thoughts: Obama's wider map

Robert (Madison, WI) — Thu, 05 Jun 2008 14:24:23 GMT

Agreed Pat.

Even with Clinton on ticket or if she was nominee, McCain would take FL. It is demographically tailored made for him.

Dems have no shot at carrying FL while Crist is GOV.

First thoughts: Obama's wider map

Pete - Albany, NY — Thu, 05 Jun 2008 14:24:43 GMT

Florida isn't a toss up...its clearly a McCain state.
Pat Huntington NY (Sent Thursday, June 05, 2008 9:37 AM)

-------------------------------------------------

If Uncle Fluffy chooses Governor Crist as his running mate it will be a gift to the Democrats.

"Hey, Florida, remember how you were screwed out of half of your delegate votes at the Democratic and Republican convention? Here's the guy who did it to you!"

First thoughts: Obama's wider map

Mister Anderson (The Matrix) — Thu, 05 Jun 2008 14:26:16 GMT

Chuck - Why do you keep Wisconsin in the toss-up column when Obama will probably win it by 10 points? What, there are like 4 million people in the entire state of Wisconsin? Over 1.4 million live in the metro Milwaukee area which is only 80 miles away from Chicago so he is like a hometown kid to us too. Plus Milwaukee, the largest city, is over 40% Black now. And the next largest city, Madison, is completely dominated by the University of Wisconsin students and college educated "elitists". Madison has had a Obama organization there for over a year now.

Plus Wisconsin has a Democratic Governor and two Democratic Senators. The only downside is that both Governors are Jewish and neither has publicly endorsed yet for whatever reason. I'm surprised Feingold hasn't jumped yet since he's like a rebel.

Against Hillary, McCain would have a real shot to beat her by 2 points. Against Obama, it's NOT HAPPENING because he has way too many geographic, demographic, and institutional advantages here.

First thoughts: Obama's wider map

Zekiel — Thu, 05 Jun 2008 14:26:35 GMT

Wisconsin is not a "Toss-up". You guys got that one wrong. This one will go Obama easily. EASILY.
He does not even need to stop here, that's how much he has Wisconsin in the bag. Toss this one in Obama's column. Not just because I said so, but because if you lived here, you'd see, we are very much a democratic state. Our biggest city: Milwaukee destroys whatever numbers the rest of our state pulls as certain areas do go repup, naturally. Mark these words: WISCONSIN WILL NOT BE GOING TO MCCAIN. WE PROMISE.

First thoughts: Obama's wider map

Pacheck, Huntington Beach, Ca. — Thu, 05 Jun 2008 14:26:57 GMT

Looks like some people did not learn anything from this last campaign. The talking heads and pundents and their focused polls have no more idea of what regular people are thinking about than a monkey. Obama went against a well oiled professional political machine while dealing with the Republican T.V. squad of psudo-intellectuals. They just don't get that people are tired of being taken for granted and having to pay the rich for screwing things up.
If we learn anything, let it be to think out of the box and to place some faith in your inner thoughts of what is right. Remember good old words like Patriot, People and Constitution.