Webb doesn't want to be VP

Vote for Obama — Mon, 07 Jul 2008 19:21:09 GMT

What a shame. I thought he would make a great VP pick. I'm not sure who would make a good VP.

Great Obama Stuff!!

http://www.artwearactivist.com

Webb doesn't want to be VP

Steve NewYork NY — Mon, 07 Jul 2008 19:21:34 GMT

ATTN : CHUCK TODD

I watched you on Morning Joe today.
I'm not sure what to make of it.
You bacame a star to us political junkies because you are the most sober-minded Political Analyst there is out there in the MSM.You were even as good as if not better than Russert.
You did NOT let your ego, or opinion, get in the way of analyzing some political event or topic.

But this morning, you managed to do so. You dodged the question of whether the media is overblowing the question of Obama's Iraq comments.

You know better !
We don't mid the Obama bashing of the MSM ( mainly due to the false impression that he has gotten a free ride so far ! --- FREE RIDE ?

Here are some examples of FREE RIDE :
Reverend Wright, bitter, muslim, flag pin, white working class,3 a.m, exotic, naive, inexperienced, kitchen sink ... lol

So Chuck Todd, you know better.Do not turn into Pat Buchanan .. it's frightening.

And whats with the ditzy MSNBC anchors today .. why do they talk about politics when it's obvious that they are clueless?
The only thing left is to dye their hair blonde !

Where are you ... we need you back .

Webb doesn't want to be VP

Pat, Boston, MA — Mon, 07 Jul 2008 19:21:54 GMT

No no no no Senator Webb - NO!!!!!!!

You were 100% right prior to the Iraq invasion, as was Senator Obama.

Maybe you don't need us, but we sure need you. We need you both.

Webb doesn't want to be VP

Brandon, Star, ID — Mon, 07 Jul 2008 19:22:33 GMT

Wow. This is shocking. On The 2008 Vice President Weekly Poll at
http://www.votenic.com
Jim Webb is one of the #1 choices for Democratic VP. Who do you think should be the Vice President?

Webb doesn't want to be VP

Chris, Dorr, MI — Mon, 07 Jul 2008 19:23:56 GMT

Webb is a good man. I respect his decision.

Go Obama!

Webb doesn't want to be VP

Ira, Freehold, NJ — Mon, 07 Jul 2008 19:24:07 GMT

Would still love to see Obama reach across the aisle to Senator Hagel.To me, they would be unbeatable.

Webb doesn't want to be VP

Ira, Freehold, NJ — Mon, 07 Jul 2008 19:25:33 GMT

There is a problem with Obama's yaw too. He keeps swinging uncontrollably from left to right.
Pilot Paul (Sent Monday, July 07, 2008 11:17 AM)
…………………………………………………………….
Great post! It’s exactly how I feel about his move to the center, right and back to the left.

In a recent article, Roger Simon of POLITICO wrote that Senator Obama “has decided to run as a candidate for president and not as the leader of a movement”. This change in strategy requires that Senator Obama now pivot from his primary posture (left of center) and run as a centrist.

Political Wisdom 101 dictates that after the primaries, the Democratic candidate move from the political left to the political center.“As Obama has begun the introduction process, there have been a number of stories recently about whether he has been “flip-flopping” (Newsweek), making “incremental changes in the face of political reality” (The Washington Post) or making “policy pirouettes” (The New York Times).” I believe these allegations are all true.

Since becoming the presumptive nominee the Senator has opted out of the public campaign financing system, reneging on his pledge to discuss public financing with his republican opponent.

The Senator has changed his position on warrantless wiretapping and is now willing to allow immunity for telecoms that violated the law and the 4th Amendment.

The Senator has modified his position on Roe v. Wade, redefining his position on late term abortions.

The Senator was unwilling to support General Wes Clarke’s assertion that being in the military does not automatically qualify one to be Commander-In-Chief. His comments were “in artful” said the Senator. Maybe so, but the General’s point was certainly valid and the topic appropriate. Senator McCain has placed his military credentials front and center in this campaign and they should be subject to scrutiny. General Clarke was thrown under the bus for political expediency.

The Senator is now open to “refining” his position on the Iraq war. Senator Obama has subsequently said that his position has not changed and that he doesn’t understand how the media could misinterpret what he has said. Easy, refining means changing something. The Senator has not defined what part of his policy needs to be refined. He now says that troop withdrawal will depend on the situation on the ground. Sounds a heck of a lot like what Senator McCain has been saying.

Add to this, the addition of the flag pin and his very obvious move to appeal to the Evangelical right with “Faith Based Initiatives”. I could care less about the flag pin, it’s just political pandering. The introduction into this campaign of faith based initiatives is a not so subtle attempt to bring religion into politics. Our founding fathers went out of their way to keep zealots out of the government, to keep church and state separate. Their concern extended to including this separation in our Constitution. As a constitutional lawyer, scholar and professor, Mr. Obama should know better.

I fully understand that in general election mode Senator Obama needs to introduce himself to all Americans, not just democrats. My problem is that in this introduction, I am having trouble recognizing the candidate I was passionately for during the primary season. It seems like the shine has come off the apple. The aura of the candidate of change is dimming, much to the dismay of the voters that have brought him this far. In the words of an old sage, “If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it”.

Webb doesn't want to be VP

MSierra, SF — Mon, 07 Jul 2008 19:25:44 GMT

KISS.... Keep It Simple, Silly

Go for the obvious VP candidates:
Edwards, Biden, Richardson and Dodd

Any of them would be fine....
(though Dodd is not very photogenic)

dodd's views are great !
But, Edwards are even better
We need a populist and a progressive as a running mate for Obama

Sen. Sherrod Brown of Ohio firts the bill

A female running mate, Napolitano, Sibelius or McCaskill would all be OK
(would the ticket seem 'weak' ?)

Webb doesn't want to be VP

donna — Mon, 07 Jul 2008 19:26:10 GMT

I'm glad. Webb would be another distraction with his many gaffes made against women in the past. Also, he unabashedly defended the admitted bigotry of the Appalachian voteres in WV, and Kentucky. I could understand him trying to explain it, but to defend it as he did was repugnant.

*************************************************
I don't think this image is offensive. It's not a "black Uncle Sam" as First Read reports. It's Obama
dressed as Uncle Sam. There's a big difference there and it's irresponsible for MSNBC to try to fan flames.
Matt, PA (Sent Monday, July 07, 2008 11:03 AM)

*******************************************

In considering your post I asked myself, when, if ever, I have seen other candidates dressed up, or depicted as Uncle Sam? The answer is never. The message the CDC is not so subliminally driving home, is , 'do you want this black man to have charge over your money, and to be the face of America'?

********************************************

GP,

Jerry is our brother American. His opinions on this thread are important to those of us who want a balanced dialogue. It offers us the opportunity to advocate for our ideas, with those who disagree, as well as, to be taught by them.

Some of my positions have been changed, by the good folks posting here, and I hope we have educated others to reconsider some of their views as well.

Webb doesn't want to be VP

Class Warrior, D.C. — Mon, 07 Jul 2008 19:26:22 GMT

Too bad. I was a real Webb backer. Oh, well...

Webb doesn't want to be VP

MSierra, SF — Mon, 07 Jul 2008 19:27:17 GMT

PLEASE !! PLEASE !! PLEASE !!

No Sam Nunn !!

and NO Hillary !!

NO Hagel !! (a good Sec of State?)

No Bloomberg !!

Webb doesn't want to be VP

the Pajama Pundit — Mon, 07 Jul 2008 19:28:00 GMT

Still.... he would be a good running mate. Does anyone think that he would actually turn-down the opportunity if offered?

http://thepajamapundit.com/

Webb doesn't want to be VP

Newton Johannson, Elm Grove PA — Mon, 07 Jul 2008 19:28:40 GMT

Looks like the press found out about Webb's "relationship" with Barney Frank.

Webb doesn't want to be VP

NObama — Mon, 07 Jul 2008 19:29:18 GMT

"A year and a half ago, the people of Virginia honored me with election to the U.S. Senate. I entered elective politics because of my commitment to strengthen America's national security posture, to promote economic fairness, and to increase government accountability. I have worked hard to deliver upon that commitment, and I am convinced that my efforts and talents toward those ends are best served in the Senate.
--------------------------
hmmmm....guess those would be REALLY hard to do as veep and potentially President somebody. Is this somebody has sobered up from the Koolaid and wants no part of this trainwreck named BO?

Webb doesn't want to be VP

Memphis Mike — Mon, 07 Jul 2008 19:29:59 GMT

This should be considered good news. Angry elves should never be vice-president.

Webb doesn't want to be VP

Hispanic Pride — Mon, 07 Jul 2008 19:32:23 GMT

This means Hugo Chavez is still in the running!!

Webb doesn't want to be VP

jerry/corpus christi texas — Mon, 07 Jul 2008 19:33:54 GMT

either he truely does not want to be VP or Bill Clinton stopped by for a chat.....

With all the problems Obama has so far, I suspect a lot more people will bypass the Obama express.....

Webb doesn't want to be VP

Padaack Westmoreland, Tennessee — Mon, 07 Jul 2008 19:34:25 GMT

Jim Webb's family was released unharmed soon after Webb read his statement.

Webb doesn't want to be VP

Mike Morris, Spokane, Washington State — Mon, 07 Jul 2008 19:34:33 GMT

Having read his book A Time to Fight, Jim Webb was my #1 choice for VP. Although I respect his decision he would have reinforced Obama's strengths and added strong National Security credentials to the ticket. Together they would have fought to bring back some balance to the economic wellbeing of all Americans.

Webb doesn't want to be VP

Colleen, Ithaca NY — Mon, 07 Jul 2008 19:34:46 GMT

That's okay - I'd rather have Biden as VP. Webb is cool, but Biden is the best!

Obama/Biden '08!

Webb doesn't want to be VP

Kim W Hammond, IN — Mon, 07 Jul 2008 19:35:22 GMT

Good for Sen. Webb, bad for First Read to make the title seem like Obama offered it to him and he adamntly refused. I sadly accept that Fox News will always be more popular than MSNBC, but turning against Obama and spinning things will not help attract viewers and readers.

Webb doesn't want to be VP

donna — Mon, 07 Jul 2008 19:35:33 GMT

My immedieate reaction is one of suspicion. When it comes to Obama, and the possibility of accidents, I can't help myself.

donna (Sent Monday, July 07, 2008 11:28 AM)

Not a surprise. Most Obama supporters I know are some of the most paranoid people I've ever seen.

Justice For All (Sent Monday, July 07, 2008 11:41 AM)

*************************************************

That's your problem. Your'e watching from the other side. Walk a mile ................my friend.

Webb doesn't want to be VP

Amy B Portland, ME — Mon, 07 Jul 2008 19:39:24 GMT

That's OK. I think Obama should pick Senator Chuck Hegal. Even though he is a Republican, he is very articulate and knowledable on Iraq, and I actually trust him.

Webb doesn't want to be VP

Reps Will Win Big — Mon, 07 Jul 2008 19:39:56 GMT

This was a foregone conclusion. Democratic bylaws state that you can't have two complete idiots on the same ticket.

Webb doesn't want to be VP

Bee, NH — Mon, 07 Jul 2008 19:43:27 GMT

Again, Obama has brilliantly out maneuvered the MSM who are looking more like an idiot in this election season.

I am glad Jim Webb took himself out of the equation. Obama is smart not to put a controversial figure that will derail the message on the ticket.

Let me be the first person to advocate for Obama/ Daschle or Obama/Sebelius. I wonder what Chris Matthew, Chuck Todd, Pat Buchanan and Andrea Mitchell will say next.

Webb doesn't want to be VP

Nashville_fan — Mon, 07 Jul 2008 19:44:20 GMT

Thanks for your support Senator Webb - President Obama will need your leadership in the Senate!

Obama/Biden '08/'12

Webb doesn't want to be VP

Shaun Richmond, Va — Mon, 07 Jul 2008 19:47:02 GMT

Smart move. Webb did well just to get that seat (didn't hurt that he ran against the worst campaign in history). He needs to get some things done in the Senate before moving on. Plus the Dems might have a hard time filling his seat in Va right now.

Webb doesn't want to be VP

Beverly in Chicago — Mon, 07 Jul 2008 19:48:27 GMT

Webb’s committing to work hard to make sure that Senator Obama wins both Virginia and the presidency this November is so much healthier for Obama. Although Webb is great with military experience; his alleged anti- woman could come back to haunt.

Wesley Clark the four- star general was correct about McCain and I hope he never backs down.

Go Obama/Clark

Webb doesn't want to be VP

MK,MO — Mon, 07 Jul 2008 19:49:20 GMT

I still believe edwards would be a good vp choice for obama since they both realize the commoners of this country have been neglected for the past 8 years, the republicans have ruined this country for all but the wealthiest, mccain intends to continue that repub tradition, keep the working class beat down, make them pay the wealthiest’s taxes and send the less fortunates kids to protect the wealthiest’s wealth, that my friends is what john mccain offers america.

Webb doesn't want to be VP

S.B. Stein E.B. NJ — Mon, 07 Jul 2008 19:49:24 GMT

This is a smart move for Webb. He won by a razor thin majority. He needs to work to keep his seat in four years. If faces someone that comes even close, he will be in trouble. Webb needs to show that VA is his state and he isn't a office jumper.

Webb doesn't want to be VP

DL in Va. — Mon, 07 Jul 2008 19:50:23 GMT

I guess that means it's going to be Kaine.

Webb doesn't want to be VP

Sandy in St. Michaels, MD — Mon, 07 Jul 2008 19:54:26 GMT

i'm sorry to hear this - he would be one of my first choices... now i'm REALLY counting on Biden ;)

Webb doesn't want to be VP

Stanley Jeter, Casper WY — Mon, 07 Jul 2008 19:55:09 GMT

Obama and Webb, just like all the other Democrats, are terrific at giving the taxpayers money away. Too bad they can never show any results for their actions.

Webb doesn't want to be VP

hs — Mon, 07 Jul 2008 19:56:59 GMT

This is unfortunate. From what I have seen of Senator Webb it seems he would have been a good choice.

Webb doesn't want to be VP

John Doe — Mon, 07 Jul 2008 19:57:55 GMT

More and more VP candidates are opting out running with BO.
Guess they don't want to go down with the ship.

PUMA POWER

Webb doesn't want to be VP

Brendan D, Niles, IL — Mon, 07 Jul 2008 19:58:41 GMT

This may be unpopular to say right now, but... OH THANK GOD!!! I was scared stupid that Webb was going to be the veep nominee, and that he'd invite all those angry Clinton supporters who are only just starting to warm up to Obama another reason to despise him -- the woman question. It might not have hurt Webb on a smaller stage in Virginia, but I can't imagine it being left alone on the national stage.

Webb doesn't want to be VP

Senator Obama all the Way — Mon, 07 Jul 2008 20:01:00 GMT

I respect Senator Webb's decision and understand his reasoning. I just wish he had phrased it a bit better, such as, I will campaign hard for Senator Obama but I cannot accept the nomination as VP at this time due to the fact that I believe my strengths can best be used in the Senate as an ally to President Obama. Something more to that effect would lessen the open on attacks of assumption.

It is good to have Senator Webb in the Senate.

Webb doesn't want to be VP

Senator Obama all the Way — Mon, 07 Jul 2008 20:01:52 GMT

Webb doesn't want to be VP

So tired of Obama — Mon, 07 Jul 2008 20:02:32 GMT

This is someone who really wants to help his people. Barak's Senate office staff had barely been hired when he was in Springfield announcing he was running for president.

Good for Jim Webb...I only hope that Joe Biden and Hillary have the same sense.

Let him lose with his faithful female follower from Kansas.

Webb doesn't want to be VP

Sherri, Charleston WV — Mon, 07 Jul 2008 20:08:09 GMT

Good stuff, now that Webb has said this-----Obama/Hagel 08

Webb doesn't want to be VP

DaveB from NLV — Mon, 07 Jul 2008 20:15:56 GMT

Looks like "Jim Webb 2016."

Webb doesn't want to be VP

mary j,ft lauderdale,fl — Mon, 07 Jul 2008 20:16:21 GMT

If shameful, that senator web put his statement out. Ig he did not want to be vicw presidental candiate I shold kept quite and not make it look like he was disrespecting the 1st afro-american that could be the president of the united states. This statement was slap in the face of all demorcates. Web need to explaine his need to this at this time. his announcement was in very poor taste.

Webb doesn't want to be VP

Cindi in Louisiana — Mon, 07 Jul 2008 20:16:41 GMT

Wow, I am surprised because I thought he had a real shot at the job and felt that he might be a good pick! I am getting nervous that it will be Evan Bayh and as a former resident of the Hoosier state, I am not impressed.

Webb doesn't want to be VP

Brent Welsh, Cambridge MA — Mon, 07 Jul 2008 20:16:44 GMT

Donna - you making calls to c-span? Seems to be your line of reasoning . .

Female cspan caller: I have two points. McCain is really too old for this job. We need somebody that can keep up. And number two. He does not have respect for women. He even called his wife a c---.

Webb doesn't want to be VP

DIane from Illinois — Mon, 07 Jul 2008 20:16:46 GMT

Hmmmm. I find this interesting. Most people say, if asked, they would be a running mate. WHO doesn't want to be second in command? I wonder what the real reason is for his decision? I can't wait to see who they pick! It's nice they have an open field to chose from this time around. Obama has run a terrific campaign thus far; I'm sure they'll chose wisely.

Webb doesn't want to be VP

GP Chicago — Mon, 07 Jul 2008 20:17:44 GMT

Well no matter...a ticket with Webb would've been pounced on as one with no experience...

It'll be interesting how long Mr. Obama waits to announce his VP...maybe taking the air out of any help that could be provided to McCain (anyone McCain picks should be a help to his stature...but still not enough to dent Obama's commanding stranglehold on America)

I would still love Bloomberg as VP, but unfortunately he will more than likely play it safe and go with Biden or Sebelius.

Sorry Hillocrats, she gave McCain too many bullets in the chamber and divided this country in a way that will take two terms to repair...so I doubt she will be involved in the Veepstakes.

Webb doesn't want to be VP

Lexi, Mississippi — Mon, 07 Jul 2008 20:18:21 GMT

Why do people find it necessary turn down a job they weren't asked to do? I find it so amusing in the political world...much different from the real world. By the way, I will make it official right now, I am turning down Bill Gates' position at Microsoft (just in case anyone asks me in the future)!

Webb doesn't want to be VP

Terry, Great Plains — Mon, 07 Jul 2008 20:18:53 GMT

Read John McCain's comments on balancing the budget by 2113. The only specifics were that he would cut entitlements( but not the war funding) and earmarks. Most economists believe the extension of the Bush/McCain tax cuts with no significan reduction in spending will only increase the deficit. Also I have heard that Iraq war funding will be off the table as it is now for deficit purposes. I then watched a segement on MSNBC and heard a Republican strategist echo that the war funding" is a seperate deal" and the gas tax holiday would give we the consumers an extra night at the camp sight for marshmellows. The only one staying at a camp sights( unless it is for the priveleged and they will be at the resort) are those thrown out of their homes by the mortgage crisis. This is not voodoo economics its "wishful thiking " economics. So this is his plan extend the tax cuts for the rich give me a gas tax holiday so I can spend an extra night at a campsight eating marsh mellows. Who is running his campaign the mad hatter.

Webb doesn't want to be VP

Jo Chicago — Mon, 07 Jul 2008 20:18:56 GMT

Honestly, who would want to be associated with this train wreck of a candidate? That is why they are all dropping like flies. 43% of Democratic voters don't want him either and we wish Hillary were the nominee. We don't buy Barack and we won't get over it.

Webb doesn't want to be VP

Wayne — Mon, 07 Jul 2008 20:19:00 GMT

No one wants to be the black man's running mate. What is wrong with the Democratic Party?