Obama vs. McCain: The money battle

Obama For President!! — Fri, 20 Jun 2008 13:24:00 GMT

I think it was a wise decision by Obama. Obama has about 1.5 million donators that has given at least $20.

He will raise more than the 84 million in public grants!!

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Obama vs. McCain: The money battle

Joe B, Boston — Fri, 20 Jun 2008 13:24:21 GMT

This is simply another sign of how the internet has changed our lives. Campaign finance is old and antiquated, the internet gives average people like me the ability to log on and donate to a candidate, like Obama. What is more public than millions of people donating to a candidate? This is the future.

Let’s also say there is a fair amount of hypocrisy here. McCain declined public funds in the primaries....if he believed so much then, why didn’t he take the public funds? He simply realizes now that Obama will out raise him 3 to 1 so he's whining to the press about it.

Obama vs. McCain: The money battle

Reality Check — Fri, 20 Jun 2008 13:25:41 GMT

Note to Morning Joe: 1.5 MILLION Americans = Public Campaign Finance Reform. Politicians have been sitting on their backsides in regards to true campaign finance reform for decades. So we the people said, "fine, if you won't do it, we will."

Obama vs. McCain: The money battle

Carter, Jacksonville, FL — Fri, 20 Jun 2008 13:26:59 GMT

"Even in the mostly small sums that Obama relies on – ‘comes with the expectations of special access or favors." Yeah, if give Obama $20, I expect him to fix the pot hole in front of my house. That's ridiculous. How can 1.5 million people expect special access to the president.

Obama vs. McCain: The money battle

Real Campaign Finance Reform — Fri, 20 Jun 2008 13:27:21 GMT

When's the last time ANYBODY on this board or on the First REad team checked the box that finances public campaigns. I thought so. The system is broken. I'd rather contribute to a team that gets results.

Obama vs. McCain: The money battle

Anne/Ohio — Fri, 20 Jun 2008 13:28:01 GMT

He is getting public money, just not the way they want!
I am the public and I donated to his campain, just because it was not on my taxes does not make it non-public!

Obama vs. McCain: The money battle

Michael Smith, Port Washington, NY — Fri, 20 Jun 2008 13:28:12 GMT

Well after wrapping up the nomination, McCain is holding fundraisers costing attendees $90,000 each. The money is split between various groups each committed to electing John McCain. Obviously, those people will be expecting something from a President McCain even as he accepts "public financing" for the general. So what is the point of McCain accepting public financing again?

Obama vs. McCain: The money battle

HT Lamar, Kansas City KS — Fri, 20 Jun 2008 13:28:21 GMT

Obama may have the money, but he had the money against Hillary too, and got pounded in the later primaries in many. many states where he outspent her five to one. Money is nice, but the truth will be the determining factor. And the truth is not on Obamas side.

Obama vs. McCain: The money battle

Kate, Atlanta — Fri, 20 Jun 2008 13:28:25 GMT

Ha, Obama is a different kind of candidate - he's the one NOT taking tax money for his campaign. He's financing direct from the public.

Oh, and for my $200, I certainly do expect lots of special treatment and access - HA, what a stupid statement from Public Citizen President Joan Claybrook.

Really, Bloomberg? This is what's going to drive money to the Rep 527's. What, you don't think they were lying low waiting to spring their attack after Obama chose to limit his resources to respond? Of course that is what they were doing, and he's too smart for them.

McLame gamed the system in the primaries and I have no doubt he would have done the same in the general. The man is on the double-talk-express all the way.

Obama vs. McCain: The money battle

Debbie,Ewing,NJ — Fri, 20 Jun 2008 13:28:29 GMT

Don't hate because Obama can raise money and some others can't. Nobody expects favors from politicians more than lobbyist. Obama will not see or ever know most of his donors. Why are you guys so nervous? Is it because Obama can now spend his money anyway he chooses to campaign and McCain is under gov't rules. Personally I think money to campaign for President should be voluntary and not taken out of our tax money.

Obama vs. McCain: The money battle

voter — Fri, 20 Jun 2008 13:29:17 GMT

I don't understand the statement from claybook about small donations reqquire favors. The small donations are coming from average americans like myself. Average americans are not seeking favors, but believe the washington system has drowned out our voices specifically the working class. Average americans are not lobbiest or pac. Claybook's statement makes no sense. Second, Obama is funded by the public. It does not matter whether the money comes from people's taxes or people may an online contribution. pulbic financing is public financing because the funds does not come from pacs or lobbiest. what is he big deal?

Obama vs. McCain: The money battle

Pete - Albany, NY — Fri, 20 Jun 2008 13:31:28 GMT

Senator Obama has chosen the new public financing...he's got the people in his corner donating to his cause...and our cause!

To the critics...he doesn't take public financing and you slam him for not keeping his word (which was conditional and at the time, Senator McCain had not elected public financing). Guess what...if he did elect public financing y'all would be slamming him with your pathetic "That's Not Change" drivel.

Get over yourselves!

Obama vs. McCain: The money battle

Carol, Long Valley NJ — Fri, 20 Jun 2008 13:32:17 GMT

Thank you Senator Obama for saving the taxpayers $85 million. That money can be used to fund the new GI Bill.

It's time to come together for our country. Bush/Cheney have created a fascist state with corporations running our government. The Republican Congress has "borrowed and spent" us into an irresponsibly huge deficit, with the paper being held by the Chinese and some oil rich states in the Middle East, and McCain is willing to borrow even more.

It's time to join together to work towards electing a Democratic President with a workable Democratic majority in both the House and the Senate.

This time do something smart and vote for your wallet, vote for the economy, vote for the environment, vote for jobs, vote for America!

Vote for the smartest candidate in the race, a real leader (and no that's not McCain, who graduated at the very bottom of his class -- not by a long shot)

Vote Democratic 2008 -- don't let the corporations and their Republican stooges win again.

Obama vs. McCain: The money battle

Bruce St. Helens, OR — Fri, 20 Jun 2008 13:34:47 GMT

If the goal of the 'good government' groups (and by the way, who is for 'bad government'?) is to give the people more say in how their government performs, what better way is there than having individual Americans support financially the candidate of their choice? Republicans should support Sen. Obama's decision to reject 'public' financing of political campaigns. Afterall, don't the Republicans say they support the concept that people know better what to do with their money than does the government?

Obama vs. McCain: The money battle

Steven, NY — Fri, 20 Jun 2008 13:34:50 GMT

Yes, the risk of special favors are there when a candidate opts out of public financing. But there are still plenty of ways special interests can aid a candidate taking public money. Obama (and probably the GOP) never forsaw the avalanch of money that Obama received from private donors; due to a highly skilled Internet campaign. What mostly irks John McCain is that Obama has the excitment and now the money to compete in states that John Kerry and all those prior to him could not due to the limitations of Public financing. The GOP (Bush v. Kerry 2004)used groups such as "Swift Boats Veterens for Truth" to attack the democratic candidate. While it is any groups perogative to support the candidate of their choice, opting out of Public Financing brings them into the fold publically and not skeeming with Party Bosses in a back room pretending to be non-partisans bring the the truth to Americans. It a perfect world candidates would only need Public Financing since groups like Swift Boats wouldn't exist and the American electorate would use intellegence when choosing the leader of the free world.

Obama vs. McCain: The money battle

Keith, PA — Fri, 20 Jun 2008 13:37:49 GMT

Obama could have gamed the system and taken the $80 million in public money but instead he'll depend on his supporters for financing. There's nothing dishonorable in that. The system is broken. McCain already broke the law with the way he financed his primary campaign but there's no enforcement of the law. Why should Democrats get themselves tied up trying to follow the law when Republicans are so willing to break the law?

Obama vs. McCain: The money battle

Ron Indiana — Fri, 20 Jun 2008 13:39:40 GMT

I was really disappointed to see Chris Matthews attack Obama for changing his position. Chris has been around long enough to see tactics and strategy without calling Obama "Clintonist". Chris looks up to his ol Mentor Tip O'Neal and President Carter. Did they ever change their position? More than once.

Actually it could be argued that Obama just saved the government $84 million dollars. Going without federal money says something about Obama trusting his supporters and his supporters trusting him. This is not a major story. Let's talk about gas prices, Iraq, the housig crisis. Hardball is becoming curve ball and Tim would not be pleased.

Obama vs. McCain: The money battle

JB, Roanoke, VA — Fri, 20 Jun 2008 13:39:50 GMT

I believe that all the stern talk about Obama going back on his work is a bit off the mark. To be sure, Obama did say he'd accept public financing if certain conditions were agreed upon. It can pretty easily be argued however, that John McCain, through his tacit approval of the outside-the-campaign attacks on Barack (and Michelle) Obama, is not meeting some of those conditions. It wasn't just the accepting of public funding, but also the agreement to try to tamp down some of those outside-the-campaign fires. McCain seems to have every intention of taking full advantage of that system, and allowing a full blown 'swift-boating' of Obama on his behalf. This is in contradiction of the spirit of the agreement that Obama has spoken of all along.

It is pretty easy to see this as him breaking a vow, but a closer look at his position over the course of the campaign reveals that he'd left his options open.

Obama vs. McCain: The money battle

Amy B Portland, ME — Fri, 20 Jun 2008 13:41:33 GMT

Guess who's not checking off that $3 donation for public funding box on her tax return ever again? Me!
I don't want McCain using public money to spread misinformation about policy, i.e. that lifting the ban on offshore drilling will lower gas prices, when the truth is if we allow drilling we may say a 3 cent a gallon saving but not until 2027. Public funding of campaigns may have been a good idea, but in the hands of McCain, it becomes a really bad idea.

Obama vs. McCain: The money battle

PA for Obama — Fri, 20 Jun 2008 13:41:36 GMT

I would have been upset if he didn't reject public financing. It would have been the equivelant of unilatteral disarmorment. This election is way too important not to play to win. Take the heat now, but win in November.

Go Obama Go!!

Obama vs. McCain: The money battle

Jan Oswald Dubuque,Iowa — Fri, 20 Jun 2008 13:41:56 GMT

As an Iowan and a long time supporter of Barack I am very disappointed in his decision, we could all see it coming but he had made us HOPE that he wasn't a typical Pol. It's bad enough that he opted out but to suggest in our e-mail that he is the underdog in fundraising potential is just plain insulting.

Obama vs. McCain: The money battle

BO = politics as usual. — Fri, 20 Jun 2008 13:42:19 GMT

Unfortunately we are a country that is so easily influenced by the media and marketing, so its a no brainer that he will opt out of 85 million to spend 300 million.

it took him 100 Million to convince everyone he should be the nominee...he'll need 300 million to convince the easily fooled that he should be the president.

BO has lots of money and will blitz the media. Once you hear something enough, you begin to believe it whether it is true or not....

He is no different than any other politician...just better at fooling people.

Obama vs. McCain: The money battle

Keith, PA — Fri, 20 Jun 2008 13:43:27 GMT

The system is broken. Politicians routinely say they're following the law while they game the system. The lawbreakers are NEVER punished. Why should Obama play that game? He's done the honorable thing in opting out.

Obama vs. McCain: The money battle

Rick, NC — Fri, 20 Jun 2008 13:46:25 GMT

Just a little nudge on the flip flop meter from comrade obama...he would have looked like a dummy passing up the chance to pull in 2 or 3 times what his opponent will have...speaking of dummies...

Mcbush must have decided his brand wasn't strong enough to attract more than 84M from his adoring legions of compassionate conservatives

Obama vs. McCain: The money battle

kmnecole, st louis, mo — Fri, 20 Jun 2008 13:47:18 GMT

In all honesty, the public financing system didn't stop the 527's in the 2004 election from falsely smearing a dedicated war hero, yet we're to believe they wouldn't have done it again had Obama accepted public financing- of course then, Obama wouldn't have had the money to fight back.

Now, I agree, he shouldn't have stated in the beginning that he would agree to use public financing and then opt out of it. However, I do think he may have agreed to it if he had McCain's vow that 527's would not play such a major role in the McCain campaign and its advertising(indirectly, of course).

At the same time, Obama has taken the path of stating that special interests groups and lobbyists won't play a role in his campaign, and has requested that the DNC abide by that same policy. I admire his stance.

Obama broke his word and stated he won't accept public financing (although what else you call the American public actually financing his campaign, i.e. millions of donors giving small amounts, I'm not sure?)
Bush and the Repubs(i.e.McCain) have lied to us time and again(i.e. WMD's- the search for which has led to an ensuing war and thousands of lives lost)

Which would I prefer? Hmmm...tough choice. Not!

Obama '08

Obama vs. McCain: The money battle

Chris, Quincy IL — Fri, 20 Jun 2008 13:47:32 GMT

Kudos to Senator Obama! How can anyone in good faith criticize a candidate who doesn't want to spend taxpayer dollars for TV ads? There are plenty of people in this country who go hungry every day, and too many people to count that don't have health insurance.....and yet, there are those who want to criticize for opting out of taxpayer dollars for TV ads and bumper stickers. Sorry John McCain...I find this one a "hard sell".

Obama vs. McCain: The money battle

Clara Kansas City, MO — Fri, 20 Jun 2008 13:49:53 GMT

The irony is that we keep hearing about Obama's 'pledge', which Keith Olbermann debunked last night as a theoretical question. Note that NONE of the other candidates even answered the question. This was the smartest, most ground breaking move in modern politics. The haters weren't going to vote for him anyway. The rest of us are happy to send him our $200. And yeah, fixing that pothole in front of my house would be kinda' nice!

Obama vs. McCain: The money battle

Alan, NJ — Fri, 20 Jun 2008 13:50:58 GMT

Explain to me how opting out did not break his campaign promise? This is not the first time he has done this. What else has he said can you rely on?

“I serve as a blank screen on which people of vastly different political stripes project their own views,” Mr. Obama wrote in “The Audacity of Hope, his I’m-running-for-president book. “As such, I am bound to disappoint some, if not all, of them.”

Obama vs. McCain: The money battle

what color are your flipflops Obama — Fri, 20 Jun 2008 13:51:17 GMT

Obama had rejected public money for the primary season. But he also said in January 2007: "I'm a big believer in public financing of campaigns. And I think that for a time, the presidential public-financing system works."

Obama's campaign in March vowed to "aggressively pursue" an agreement with McCain in which both would abide by the limits.
****************
Okay, Obamatons, please begin the spin. What are we misunderstanding in the above statements from BO? Robert Gibbs must have been VERY dizzy after going on all the talk shows this a.m. to spin the lie.
Even his own puppet Chris Matthews was dismayed with BO. They mentioned the dates of six occasions when BO said he'd "aggressively pursue" public financing. So how much are we supposed to believe BO from here on out? He's already flipped on other things, too. So how many more things will there be? How are you going to feel when you don't get your education credit, your ?$1000 tax credit, healthcare, the troops out of Iraq, new energy sources, etc etc. Yep, this is CHANGE YOU CAN BELIEVE IN...Obama lying and changing his mind. Thought Obama was a "new kind" of politician. LOL. What you have in Obama in an old-type Chicago style, lie to your face politician.

Obama vs. McCain: The money battle

Sally, Virginia — Fri, 20 Jun 2008 13:51:26 GMT

The problem with Obama changing his mind on the public financing is not an issue that I think many Americans care that much about. The problem is his resume is so thin that we have very little to honestly judge him on, and when he reneges on a decision to take public financing it calls his honesty into question. There are so many folks on this site blinded by love for Obama that they won't honestly consider what I've just said, but when you hold yourself up to the highest standards things like this are magnified.

Obama vs. McCain: The money battle

Eric, Salinas, CA — Fri, 20 Jun 2008 13:52:02 GMT

It's all about winning and Barack Obama has shown that he's a winner. I approve of his wise decision to opt out of public financing, saving taxpayers $84.1 million dollars. "Beggar Boy" McCain has to waste taxpayer money to finance his losing campaign because he can't get donors like Obama can. Regular Americans have shown that Barack Obama is the people's choice.

It's so funny to see how "Desperate Disturbed" McCain whines like a little crybaby about Barack opting out because he knows Obama is going to crush him in November as he turns many red states true blue. Barack never signed any agreement or pledge or promise not to opt out. He answered a question on a questionaire and it was non binding so he is free to do whatever he feels is correct to win in November. I approve his decision wholeheartedly! I'm so glad I never check the $3 box so that "Desperate Disturbed" McCain won't be wasting my tax money.

Go Obama 08/12!

Obama vs. McCain: The money battle

A Charles, LA, CA — Fri, 20 Jun 2008 13:53:25 GMT

If McCain had not abused the system so recently, this might have been an issue. And if the FEC was not a farce then I could see holding Obama morally accountable.

But dems have always lost by taking the moral high ground.

Only a fool would give up a 3 to 1 advantage like that.

More over, Obama has earned his support, just as McCain has earned his lack of support (by being a maverick). He should not be punished for giving people a leader they can believe in.

Obama vs. McCain: The money battle

Andrea, New York City — Fri, 20 Jun 2008 13:55:31 GMT

Barack Obama when he agreed to consider public financing —in my opinion—did not dream that he would be harrassed and demonized as much as he has been in the press and on the net. He needs a lot of money to get out his message out and to counteract the hate and race campaign and LIES that are being generated every day.

Let's be more practical about this!!

Obama vs. McCain: The money battle

sotiredofignorance — Fri, 20 Jun 2008 13:56:19 GMT

The Republicans have been scamming the elections for years with the outside groups that raise millions on their behalf. It is time for the Dems to fight back.

Senator Obama has an obligation to do what he has to do to win this election. That is why he was nominated. I totally support him opting out of public financing.

McCain would do the same if he thought he would raise the money.

I hope that McCain does pick Pawlenty to be his VEEP. Gets him out of our state. McCain is delusional if the thinks that will help him win MN. He totally does not understand MN and our neighbor Wisconsin if the thinks Pawlenty helps him there,

Obama vs. McCain: The money battle

what color are you flipflops Obama — Fri, 20 Jun 2008 13:58:07 GMT

BO, the pundits and on this blog, people have mentioned BO being afraid of the 527s. What is the ONLY 527 Presidential ad running right now? Haven't heard BO tell them to shut it down. If he needs piles of money to fight 527s that are "gaming the system", it just seems he should not allow anybody to use his name in one. Fake, fraud, liar. You can spin it anyway you want; he broke his promise.

Obama vs. McCain: The money battle

Billy, MI — Fri, 20 Jun 2008 14:04:51 GMT

I don't understand the editorials saying he's not a change candidate. He's the first presidential candidate to opt out of public financing since it was introduced. How is that not a change from previous politicians?

Obama vs. McCain: The money battle

Bruce, NV — Fri, 20 Jun 2008 14:05:54 GMT

ABSOLUTELY HYSTERICAL how the Obamaniacs turn in to pretzels to defend Barry's flip flops, while pulling out the high-test vitriol every time they think Mac changed his position. Jusst goes to show, that for all the alleged purity etc, that they have no principles.

Obama vs. McCain: The money battle

GA GUY — Fri, 20 Jun 2008 14:06:27 GMT

If McCain had the ability to raise funds like Obama does, this would not be an issue; he would have opted out as well; (as he did in the primary) ["Flip-Flop??!].

If this is the best Republican argument against Obama, they should just start planning for 2012 now.

The american public knows what is going on this cycle, and all of the "flip-flop" BS is just that...If McCain wants to talk about Campaign Finance Reform; he should take that meeting with Barack Obama ASAP!

We are tired of seeing the attack ads, we want to see the solution ads! Barack's solution to the "broken system" is to rely on private donations while not allowing donations from PAC's or Lobbyists, both for his campaign and the DNC. He has done more for the common cause of the American People with those moves than any other politician to date! If and when John McCain takes these same steps; we would then have a true "discussion" taking place on this issue.

Sorry media outlets; reporting on this as though PAC and Lobbyist monies are not part of the issue will not work!! We've seen enough of the 527's etc. to last us for awhile!

Obama vs. McCain: The money battle

JS — Fri, 20 Jun 2008 14:08:58 GMT

I sent Obama $50 bucks, Im expecting my Porsche any day now ;-) . Joan Claybrook needs to get with the times.

Obama vs. McCain: The money battle

KD, Chicago — Fri, 20 Jun 2008 14:18:07 GMT

Obama was in a bad situation either way. I too would have been disappointed if he didn't opt. out. He'd be playing into the Republican's hands and he'll need every dollar to beat back the 527's. It's the right move, not popular now, but it's the correct thing to do to win in November.

I've paid taxes for years and have never, ever checked that box to donate for public financing, but I have give the Obama campaign $25 because I support his platform, not because I expect a favor. The good gov. groups and media aren't making an apples to apples comparison. His fund raising power isn't through special interests, but through regular people, and I thought that was the point of campaign finance reform in the first place.

Obama vs. McCain: The money battle

fletc3her, Seattle, Washington — Fri, 20 Jun 2008 14:19:01 GMT

I am planning on giving Obama money for his Presidential campaign and I do expect some small favors. The favor of rational foreign policy. The favor of ending the torture of prisoners of war. The favor of ending the rendition of American citizens. The favor of pulling us out of the civil war in Iraq. The favor of promoting alternative fuels. The favor of running the government competently. The favor of handling the multiple crises Bush is leaving behind including healthcare, homeland security, skyrocketing deficits, the mortgage meltdown.

I expect nothing less for a couple hundred bucks than the restoration of the honor and dignity of the United States of America. I expect a return to the days when America was seen as a shining beacon of Democracy. I expect a government who shows compassion to all its citizens.

For McCain to criticize Obama about campaign finance reform is the height of hypocrisy. McCain has already broken the campaign finance laws during the primary season. I don't think good faith negotations are possible with someone who has already shown their willingness to set aside the laws they find inconvenient. Lets be clear. McCain broke the law. Obama opted out. The difference is as stark as night and day.

Obama vs. McCain: The money battle

Judy, New York, NY — Fri, 20 Jun 2008 14:19:25 GMT

Change OPRAH can pay for!

Obama vs. McCain: The money battle

Nic, Burlington VT — Fri, 20 Jun 2008 14:23:56 GMT

The only special "favors" I ask of Obama, as a donator myself, is for him to make the necessary changes to Washington we need. That is all I expect.

Obama vs. McCain: The money battle

SANDRA — Fri, 20 Jun 2008 14:24:27 GMT

WOW~MCCAIN IS JUST MAD BECAUSE HE GOT OUT SMARTED. CHRIS M OF HARDBALL HANNITY AND MORNING JOE WERE THE SAME GUYS WHO WERE SAYING THAT WAS WEAK AND HE NEEDED TO MAN UP GET SOME BACKBONE ALL KINDS OF THINGS TO INSULTS HIM.OH BUT WAIT YOU HAVEN'T SEEN NOTHING YET. HE WENT TO ONE OF THE BEST SCHOOL IN THE UNITED STATES HIM AND HIS WIFE THEY ARE BRILLANT PEOPLE.MCCAIN WILL BE ALRIGHT HE SHOULD WORRY ABOUT HIS WAR CHEST. ALSO THEY WERE ARE SET TO SWIFTBOAT HIM BY PUT HIS BOAT BOY DIDN'T THAT BACK FIRE . THIS GUY IS WONDERFUL MICHELLE WAS SO BEAUITFUL ON THE VIEW HANNITY CAN'T FIND STUFF TO SAY ABOUT HER HE IS SHITTING IN HIS PANT. I FOR ONE ARE OVERJOYED AT WHAT TEAM OBAMA IS DOING . LET THE GAMES BEGIN OBAMA 08

Obama vs. McCain: The money battle

Ryan, Oceanside, CA — Fri, 20 Jun 2008 14:24:42 GMT

"Joan Claybrook called $85 million ‘plenty of money’ and warned that private funding -- even in the mostly small sums that Obama relies on – ‘comes with the expectations of special access or favors.’”

This is completely incongruous and disingenuous fake rage. People who donate $10-$25 do not 'expect' Obama to take up one of their personal policy positions!

These 'Reform Groups' of pre-2004 don't realize that the internet has changed the game for candidates by allowing the average Joe to become more informed and donate to the candidate that already reflects their personal ideals and positions. It's not money that's the problem; it's big money and influence peddling. Special interests and big money bundlers are the reason why those 'Reform Groups' were originally created, not the money itself.

While I disagree with Obama on this issue, his argument of having a form of public financing already, does make sense and is VALID. Stop with the fake outrage already.

Obama vs. McCain: The money battle

Mike HYland,Detroit, MI — Fri, 20 Jun 2008 14:25:55 GMT

I can't wait for this forum's 2 faced Liberal Socialists to get their wish. BHO in the Whitehouse regardless of the path ( no not the Adware BHO "Browser Helper Object" ) For 2 years the democrats controlled congress leading to 4.50 gas and zero legislation regarding any hyped up call for change. When they have the Whitehouse and the Congress in their pockets who are they to blame when the whole country regresses like a Carter Admin part II.

You'll be on your knees praying Emperior GWB was back in power when the USA Haters are running everything inside and outside our borders.

Obama vs. McCain: The money battle

Scott (Indy) — Fri, 20 Jun 2008 14:29:45 GMT

Obama has just proven that the White House is for sale, just like everything else. How much will it take to buy him off if he is elected president? I'm sure someone like China will come up with the money.

Obama vs. McCain: The money battle

Typical White Person — Fri, 20 Jun 2008 14:30:22 GMT

Excuse me, but when I hear Obama whine about needing money for all the attacks that are sure to come, I can't help but think about that pathetic ad with Baby Alex, the one McCain can't have, after Move On decided to pluck a few words out of a statement McCain made.

Obama vs. McCain: The money battle

S.B. Stein E.B. NJ — Fri, 20 Jun 2008 14:30:25 GMT

Given the number of people who have contributed already to his campaign, it has some look like a grass roots campaign. It would be even better if this was being done by a third party. From various bits that I have heard, most of the close to 2 million contributors have donated less than $1,000 to the Obama campaign so far.

Obama vs. McCain: The money battle

John Doe — Fri, 20 Jun 2008 14:35:09 GMT

What Obama should do is ask for money from his supporters for the election, and once he wins... he should continue to ask for money on a daily basis from his supporters for his plans to spread the wealth. Now, that would be a change from traditional politics.

Obama vs. McCain: The money battle

annie oakley with a gun and a bible — Fri, 20 Jun 2008 14:35:15 GMT

I expect a government who shows compassion to all its citizens.

on above:
Why don't you ask those two women in hijabs in MI how much compassion they feel from YOUR candidate?

Obama vs. McCain: The money battle

Stewart, New Orleans,LA — Fri, 20 Jun 2008 14:35:33 GMT

What will happen to the $83 million? Will it go to McCain, or to minor party candidates? Or is it saved for the next election? Or does the government get to keep it?

Obama vs. McCain: The money battle

Robert Lewis — Fri, 20 Jun 2008 14:36:43 GMT

John McCain's son Andrew is a Director of Silver State Bancorp that has been named in two complaints alleging conversion, breach of fiduciary duty, negligence, fraud and civil RICO claims.

www.webofdeception.com

Obama vs. McCain: The money battle

annie oakley with a gun and a bible — Fri, 20 Jun 2008 14:38:10 GMT

Senator Obama has an obligation to do what he has to do to win this election.

on above:
And that includes telling lies and breaking a promise? Do you really believe now that he deliver all those freebies later on down the line?

If it walks like a duck, looks like a duck and quacks like a duck...it's a duck. And, BO is a LIAR.

Obama vs. McCain: The money battle

LD in Brew City — Fri, 20 Jun 2008 14:38:20 GMT

Obama never signed a contract that he would take public funds. He merely signed a questionaire. Even then he gave an explaination on said questionaire that he would only accept public funds if he had a discussion on said public funds with McCain beforehand. That discussion did not occur because McCain is running from Obama. It's not like he publicly announced he was going to accept public funds, and then decided not to. Oh wait, McCain did that during the primary season.

Obama vs. McCain: The money battle

Jane — Fri, 20 Jun 2008 14:39:59 GMT

From previous poster: "He needs a lot of money to get out his message out and to counteract the hate and race campaign and LIES that are being generated every day. "

OR "He needs a lot of money to HIDE the truth that are being generated about hime every day." You can look at it both ways.

Obama vs. McCain: The money battle

Amy, St. Leonard, MD — Fri, 20 Jun 2008 14:40:23 GMT

Let me see if I have this straight: Obama went back on his word--his word--because of his fear of 527's? Oh. That "McCain Wants to Kill My Baby" ad was put out by Republicans?

And Obama's ideas for "change" means that we're returning to the Pre-Watergate era of campaign finance?

Sorry folks, but this is not a "flip-flop"; this is a man breaking his word to the American people. This is not changing one's position on an issue based on new information or different circumstances; this is a man demonstrating that he has no honor. None. Where I came from, someone who broke his/her word was lower than a snake. And to you folks who think public financing comes from "taxes" are dead wrong. Donations come from a little box where each taxpayer can decide whether to contribute.

Obama vs. McCain: The money battle

annie oakley with a gun and a bible — Fri, 20 Jun 2008 14:40:55 GMT

He needs a lot of money to get out his message out and to counteract the hate and race campaign and LIES that are being generated every day.
on above:
so when is the wounded one Obama going to tell them to pull the ONLY 527 Presidential ad running today? You know the one that miscontrues a statement by McCain? What's good for the goose is good for the gander. I hope the 527s OBLITERATE Obama and expose him for what he really is...fake, fraud, liar and a man of so little integrity he'd throw his own grandmother under the bus, you know his "typical white person" grandmother.

Obama vs. McCain: The money battle

Liz, NY — Fri, 20 Jun 2008 14:42:20 GMT

Judy (NY)

What are you talking about? Just because Oprah Winfrey has millions, that doesn't mean she can donate millions to Sen Obama (or anyone else).

BY LAW, noone can donate more than $2,300 in an election.

Your post makes no sense - - but then again, I guess we should consider the source.

Obama '08

Obama vs. McCain: The money battle

Barrack Hussein — Fri, 20 Jun 2008 14:42:27 GMT

Obama is a liar. Plain and simple. He will do whatever it takes to get what he wants. He will wine and dine with terrorists, kow tow to the public through the guise of religion, and tell the people one thing and do another. The canadian NAFTA fiasco should have clued you all in on this. Now he has lied about campaign finance too.
This man will ruin this country and you small minded, Jonestown, Kool Aid drinking moonies are celebrating.

Dummies.

Obama vs. McCain: The money battle

annie oakley with a gun and a bible — Fri, 20 Jun 2008 14:42:56 GMT

Bush/Cheney have created a fascist state with corporations running our government.

on above
Carol, please look up the definition of fascist and then report back on it. (BTW, don't be surprised when you see Obama's pic there!)

Obama vs. McCain: The money battle

annie oakley with a gun and a bible — Fri, 20 Jun 2008 14:48:52 GMT

John Mercurio

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• E-mail

WASHINGTON - In a campaign filled with contrasts, John McCain and Barack Obama do agree on one thing: Both have promised to rid the White House of special interests by limiting corporate ties and lobbyists' influence. Obama has even banned those lobby-clogging rascals from donating to the cash-strapped Democratic National Committee.

But at the same time, both political parties, eager to raise boatloads of cash for their conventions, have opened their doors to special-interest money in exchange for generous goodie bags that offer coveted access to key power players.

on above:
How can this POSSIBLY be? How can Obama allow big corporate money to fund his coronation? I thought he ORDERED his minions, the DNC, no big money. hypocrisy again

Obama vs. McCain: The money battle

annie oakley with a gun and a bible — Fri, 20 Jun 2008 14:51:25 GMT

I am planning on giving Obama money for his Presidential campaign and I do expect some small favors. The favor of rational foreign policy. The favor of ending the torture of prisoners of war. The favor of ending the rendition of American citizens. The favor of pulling us out of the civil war in Iraq. The favor of promoting alternative fuels. The favor of running the government competently. The favor of handling the multiple crises Bush is leaving behind including healthcare, homeland security, skyrocketing deficits, the mortgage meltdown.

I expect nothing less for a couple hundred bucks than the restoration of the honor and dignity of the United States of America. I expect a return to the days when America was seen as a shining beacon of Democracy. I expect a government who shows compassion to all its citizens.

on above:
You really expect you're going to get all a LIAR has promised? If he'll lie to you now when he needs ya, what do you think BO will do when he gets his crown? (Besides, Michelle needs your money so she doesn't have to shop at Target.)

Obama vs. McCain: The money battle

Robert Hassell ,Bon Aqua, TN — Fri, 20 Jun 2008 14:51:48 GMT

Not much talk from TV. They get the public money,527 money and Obamamoney. Keith, you keep telling the truth and you will want get on fox.

Obama vs. McCain: The money battle

Robert Hassell ,Bon Aqua, TN — Fri, 20 Jun 2008 14:53:38 GMT

Not much talk from TV. They get the public money,527 money and Obamamoney. Keith, you keep telling the truth and you want get on fox.

Obama vs. McCain: The money battle

Titus Xenia,OH — Fri, 20 Jun 2008 14:55:17 GMT

This is a non-issue at best. This accusation of flip-flopping is based of of a 25 question, questionaire. If anyone were to read the questionaire he filled out it gives a Yes and No option and then a comment box that limits the candidate to 250 words. In those comments he expresses his desire to reform the public funding system for presidential campigns as he he did for previous campaigns he had ran. He also expresses his desire to work with whomever his competitor would be, if he were to win the nomination to agree on reforms for this system. So the truth is he had to check Yes or No, but he took the time to express his feelings in the comments section of the questionaire that every one is referencing when accusing him of flip-flopping. All of the other 5 presidential hopefulls at the time of this questionaire that is in question only checked Yes without a single word in their comment box. So, when accusing him of dishonesty or flip-flopping make sure you know what you are talking about first. Because when you see the entire story his decision made yesterday looks more like him making a decision based on his dislike of the current system and opting to change and evolve. And of course, fund his campaign as well as he possibly can to win the election. Keep trying haters, your efforts are week and innefective in my book.

Obama vs. McCain: The money battle

Kris, NH — Fri, 20 Jun 2008 14:57:01 GMT

This is just PR spin. Clinton's debt will be paid off, she just wants the vendors paid off quickly. Remember, Clinton raised nearly the same amount as Obama when she was in the race. He was something like 240 million and she was 220 million. Not a slouch, by any means. This is just a way to get the word out. Senator Clinton is no foo.

Obama vs. McCain: The money battle

mjstep, phila, pa — Fri, 20 Jun 2008 14:57:29 GMT

Wait, let me get this straight...the GOPer's are criticizing Obama for funding his campaign by himself? I can't for the life of me believe anyone who claims to be a fiscal conservative could question this. Barack saved $84M of taxpayer money by this decision. Thanks for cutting government spending!

Obama vs. McCain: The money battle

mjstep, phila, pa — Fri, 20 Jun 2008 14:59:07 GMT

OMG the white house is up for sale! Oh no, Barack s going to give special treatment to over 1.5 million people who are a representative cross-section of our country. Oh the humanity!

Obama vs. McCain: The money battle

Celeste, Michigan — Fri, 20 Jun 2008 14:59:40 GMT

DEMOCRATS ARE GOING TO WIN!!! NA-NAAA NA-NA-NA TO THE REPUBLICANS!

Obama vs. McCain: The money battle

Sue — Fri, 20 Jun 2008 14:59:51 GMT

The only way this "changing his mind" would be a problem is if we the people hadn't been doing the financing...but we are....and he answers to us and not special interest groups. He also needs any extra he can raise to overcome 1) the smears that will come at him and 2) let the country get to know him...they already know McCain...he's been around forever...
It was a smart move, it's been reported on for 2 days and now it's time to get on with reporting issues....
everyone has weighed in on this...any more time spent is a waste of time.
And by the way, John McCain would have done the same thing...don't anyone kids yourselves...