First thoughts: Obama's slight map lead

Steve NewYork NY — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 13:21:24 GMT

McSame joking about Bombing and Killing Iranians should convince everyone that this old man is still living in the 40's and WILL invade Iran if elected.

No doubt. He can't wait to attck them !

The question is, ARE we that stupid America. We elected a war monger and we got into 2 wars, 4100 dead, 30,000 wounded .... over 100,000 on Post Traumatic Stress Dis-Order ..

Lets do something about it !

Say No to this war monger. Our childrens lives depend on it !

First thoughts: Obama's slight map lead

Pat, Boston, MA — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 13:22:20 GMT

To Barack Obama supporters:

An interesting article this morning written by freelance writer J. Shawn Durham printed in our local Metro paper this morning -

“Since LBJ signed the Civil Rights Act in 1964, and as we all know, Democrats have not done well in the south. It looks like this is changing since the old race baiting conservatives are dying away - most notably Strom Thurmond and Jesse Helms.

Things are starting to change - A 2007 survey conducted by Black Enterprise magazine showed that 9 of the 10 most integrated cities in the country are in the South.

Barack Obama is statistically tied with John McCain in Virginia. North Carolina is in striking distance for Obama. Georgia is in play because the state has 1.3 million black voters and another 600,000 unregistered blacks. Louisiana is 30% black and both blacks and whites are still sore over Katrina. And although confederate flags hang over its capitals, Republicans will have to spend a pretty penny to keep South Carolina with its 30 plus percent black voters in its column.

John McCain has yet to fire up his conservative base. And even if Obama doesn’t carry a single southern state, staying competitive in Dixie forces McCain to devote his limited resources to keep the South in the Republican column instead of making inroads in the critical battleground states of Ohio, Florida and PA.

Compounding McCain’s woes is the fact that Obama grew the electorate in the primary season and got voters to the polls in record numbers. That strategy could pay off if applied to the South. This isn’t Uncle Remus’ South. Even red states have liberal hamlets like Athens, Chapel Hill, Richard and Greenville. And most of the 35,000,000 black Americans live in the Deep South.

All this could be crazy talk. But Obama is using money and the grassroots network to increase voter turnout in all 50 states, so anything is possible. Wouldn’t it be ironic if the South was responsible for putting a black man in the White House?”

First thoughts: Obama's slight map lead

Marty in KC — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 13:22:22 GMT

Could Obama be the one who destroys the republican party for years to come? I hope so.

First thoughts: Obama's slight map lead

BH Obama - Chicago IL — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 13:24:12 GMT

Illinois doesn't touch Kentucky. Arkansas does though.

First thoughts: Obama's slight map lead

Eric, SI, NY — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 13:25:03 GMT

It's not just Obama supporters who won't give Hillary any more money but even many of her supporters and donors who did not max out. I am waiting until there is a statement from her and Mark Penn that ZERO of the money raised will be paid to Penn until everyone else is paid off in full.

First thoughts: Obama's slight map lead

the Pajama Pundit — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 13:25:29 GMT

McCain was asked about the increase in US exports to Iran during the Bush Administration, with the largest export being cigarettes. “Maybe that’s a way of killing them,” McCain said, laughing, according to a pool report. “I meant that as a joke, as a person who hasn’t had a cigarette in 28 years.” Cindy McCain then corrected him -- it’s been 29 years. She also poked him in the back. According to the pool report, McCain aide Brooke Buchanan then walked over to senior adviser Mark Salter with a concerned look on her face and repeated the exchange…
**********************************

Sad. Just sad. I know that I don't want this cat sitting down with ANY world leaders - let alone those whom America does not see eye-to-eye. I thought cowboy politics were bad...

http://thepajamapundit.com/

First thoughts: Obama's slight map lead

Reality Check — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 13:25:34 GMT

This griping by certain Clinton loyalists that "Obama supporters have not done more to help erase her debt," is an utter JOKE. It's HER debt. It's HER debt that SHE ran up while acting irresponsibly and running disingenuous attack ads against him. These people are delusional and continue to prove they have the maturity of a five-year-old. If the shoe were on the other foot, these people would be viciously deriding Obama for even daring to ask them to help pay off debt. You know it. I know it. They know it.

First thoughts: Obama's slight map lead

Dennis Costa — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 13:25:57 GMT

Obama is going to cast a vote? Someone better get that one up on youtube. Very rare to see that. Rare indeed.

First thoughts: Obama's slight map lead

Paul, Chicago Illinois — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 13:27:21 GMT

I am perplexed as to why Chuck Todd seems so, how should I say this carefully, indifferent and doubtful about the Obama campaign. For him to declare on Countdown last night that this election is all about Obama’s likeability, shows a lack of understanding of what the Obama campaign is all about and why it is so strong. He has been this way throughout the primaries, and I often thought it was a definite bias towards Clinton. But Chuck Todd isn’t the only media pundit to behave this way.

I suspect if Obama does not win a clear majority of votes in the election, the media will hound him every single day. The change Obama proposes threatens the livelihoods of all these so-called political analysts; especially the wing nut neo-cons. After all, if we are going to change Washington, we must also change the media environment as well.

I’ll sign up to have a world with less Rush Limbaugh air bags, and no Fox News!

First thoughts: Obama's slight map lead

California Voter — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 13:28:00 GMT

In regards to the veiled threats about Hillary and Bill "not really working to help Obama" if his supporters don't do more to pay off his debts, let's spin that around. Hillary and Bill ran up the debt. If they want help paying it off, it'll come AFTER the election and it will be DIRECTLY proportional to the level of commitment they show in helping Obama get elected.

First thoughts: Obama's slight map lead

Linda. Boston, MA — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 13:28:33 GMT

Obama is ahead in almost all of those states that you call "toss ups": CO, IA, MI, NM, NH, OH, PA, VA. And he's up pretty big (by 8) in PA , so why is that not considered "leaning" Obama?

And how do you call IN leaning for McCain when the most recent poll of polls has Obama up by 1 there?

You guys are being WAY too generous to McCain in your allocation of electoral votes right now, and the reason is clear: if you allocated according to who is ahead in the polls there, then Obama CRUSHES McCain. And a blowout, from the MSM's point of view, is boring. You guys NEED it to be close, just as you need for there to be controversy (e.g. non-existent flip-flops) otherwise you have nothing to report about.

The MSM reports the truth so long as the truth is interesting. When it's not, then you start to see their instigation-machine in full effect.

First thoughts: Obama's slight map lead

Car Loons — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 13:31:18 GMT

First thoughts: Obama's slight map lead

Republicans Don't Want Obama Either — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 13:33:11 GMT

Could Obama be the one who destroys the republican party for years to come? I hope so.

Marty in KC (Sent Wednesday, July 09, 2008 9:22 AM)

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

I know Obama has been on a flip-flop binge lately, but I had not heard that he switched parties.

First thoughts: Obama's slight map lead

Michelle Zee — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 13:33:38 GMT

This FISA stuff is crazy...the FISA court had no oversight before, there were not warrants requested or issued and there was no previous probable cause to tap phones before.

The new change allows that.

Yes, as with the Fourth Amend, there is a slight violation, but in today's world of threats, there must be greater oversight and more measures put in place.

This is such a big deal, because this administration has not followed the law. Under a new Democrat Administration, I believe it would.

He is not undermining anything, it is a matter of putting safeguards back in place that were not exercised before. Remember, this FISA court has always been around, but this Rethuglican administration has been running a rogue state of affairs.

Obama has not switched, this is the rethuglicans attempt to paint Obama as weak, but eventually we are going to have to talk about the rethuglicans. This argument is really wearing thin, so what is next on the list of things that the rethuglican's are trying to escape from?

First thoughts: Obama's slight map lead

KJ, Dallas, lTX — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 13:35:59 GMT

In regards to the Clinton/Obama Drama:

I, as an Obama supporter don't see where Hillary is availing herself that much to help him on the campaign, and Bill is being downright ugly, and we supporters see this. Personally, I don't see any reason to help with her debt. This whole scenario sounds like blackmail to me anyway (pay my debt, or else I won't campaign for you).

But, on the other hand, a lot of people are hurting because of the price of oil. It's hard donating to Sen. Obama, the DNC, AND Hillary too, GEEZ!

First thoughts: Obama's slight map lead

Linda. Boston, MA — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 13:36:03 GMT

Clinton's massive debt was not the result of some unforeseeable misfortune, it was the result of her own poor planning and a refusal to accept the reality of her defeat (which became clear WAY back when she underperformed in OH/TX). And to be upset with Obama supporters for not cleaning up her mess shows a lack of understanding of who we are. We are not rich!!! Most of us starving students didnt donate because we had all kinds of money laying around, we did so because we felt it was a NECESSITY. Those millions of Obama donations we an investment, not a gift. But with Clinton out of the rest, there is no necessity, no investment. Faced with paying off my own debts or the debts of a millionaire, the choice is clear.

First thoughts: Obama's slight map lead

Linda. Boston, MA — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 13:37:35 GMT

"Obama is going to cast a vote? Someone better get that one up on youtube. Very rare to see that. Rare indeed."
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^

Another ignorant McCain supporter. FYI - McCain has the WORST attendance record in the Senate. So if you want to talk about someone not casting votes, I'm ready when you are.

First thoughts: Obama's slight map lead

donna — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 13:37:50 GMT

Our dark horse candidate is gaining on 'Trigger'. (Pun intended).

First thoughts: Obama's slight map lead

Pissed off Dem — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 13:39:39 GMT

Obama is where he is because people THINK he is AA. That is the only reason I can see. He has no plan, no clue, where to get one ( oh yes thats where the Clintons come in ). He flip flops more and any canidate I've ever seen ! Now he is pandering to the center to try to get the independent vote. Does he believe in ANYTHING of his own ?. with only 143 days in politics and no voting record in the Senate,what does he think qualifies him to be POTUS ? oh yeah the black thing ! Oh and just a FYI , he didn't vote against Iraq, he voted present ! He didn't have a opinion as usual.

First thoughts: Obama's slight map lead

formerly of NY — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 13:39:42 GMT

Isn't Sen. McCain going to show up for the FISA vote? Why criticize another Sen.'s vote if you don't show up yourself? As to the Clinton debt issue, what made her think that going into that much debt was okay? There were many people who bailed Sen. and Pres. Clinton out at the end of their time in the White House (giving money for legal bills, etc.) but there does come a time when one gets tired of giving money for someone else's follies.

First thoughts: Obama's slight map lead

Get a Clue First Read Proponents Dot Org — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 13:39:50 GMT

I agree with Linda in Boston and Paul in Chicago about NBC/MSNBC/First Read. This election is going to put a lot of so-called expert analysts in a very long 'eating crow' line.

I think Obama score somewhere in the low to mid 300s in the EC.

First thoughts: Obama's slight map lead

Clara Kansas City, MO — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 13:40:03 GMT

Chuck, you truly are at your best when you are crunching the numbers. Obama's overwhelming support and margin in the primary in his home state of Illinois was one of the solidifying statistics in my support of him. People who know him and have worked with him LIKE him. They trust him, he represents them. Of course there are those who dissent; but the margins spoke volumes. PS. Didn't we win a Republican Congressional seat in Illinois with his supporting the Dem candidate?

Rubbish about the Clinton debt. I plan to kick $5 her way by the convention; but every spare penny I have these days (albeit significantly fewer with gas prices) is going to Obama and the DNC. This is my priority and focus. Once again, there seems to be a 'tone of entitlement' - how dare Obama supporters not pitch in. How much extra did he spend defending his position because she wouldn't read the writing on the wall? That kind of obstinance has no place in this campaign.

And back to McCain, when you can't run on your record and your platform - attack your opponent. This is Rove101. I think this speaks to his lack of principled positions. He has become a total shadow of his former self and does not deserve to be POTUS. He abandoned principles somewhere in a foxhole in Vietnam. Beginning with his "family values" and rolling on through his Bush hugging up to yesterday when he said, ‘Maybe that’s a way of killing them.’ He wouldn't know diplomacy if it bit him in the ass.

First thoughts: Obama's slight map lead

Liberalism is a disease — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 13:41:04 GMT

Obama will be voting 'present' on the FISA bill.

First thoughts: Obama's slight map lead

a of il — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 13:41:06 GMT

If Obama wants to win the election all he has to do is play the clip of McCain singing Bomb, Bomb Iran and slow and slow down the clip dramatically. America decide..........do you want 4 more years of war!!!! A war hero who jokes about bombing Iran and starting another war while we're already mired in two wars. Remember Kerry's flip flopper videos? That was the end of him. The GOP (Gas and Oil Party) took one little clip (stuck to message) and killed it by replaying the same negative image over and over again. We need some group (not the Obama campaign itself) to put up the Bomb Bomb Iran video and play it over and over and over!!! That would just be the final nail in MCCain's campaign.

First thoughts: Obama's slight map lead

Lisa, NY — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 13:41:13 GMT

Re paying off the Clinton debt...

In 1988, Dukakis had to pay off J. Jackon's 2 million dollar debt and buy him a plane to get him out of the race.

Paying off debt is not all that unusual.

Considering what we have now seen of him...it is clear why Hillary stayed in...she obviously knew what we were in for.

As a New Yorker...whether or not I vote for him is mute... none the less while I won't vote for McCain, I won't for this phony either.

First thoughts: Obama's slight map lead

John, Tampa — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 13:41:44 GMT

Hey Dennis Costa:

At least Barack is in DC voting...when is the last time or often has McBush been in DC.

Barack/Joe looks good!

First thoughts: Obama's slight map lead

Rick, NC — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 13:43:06 GMT

I'm sure some of the fraidy cats on the right will eat up mccains tough talk...but will they suit up and fight in Iran better than in Iraq? We'll see

First thoughts: Obama's slight map lead

Margaret TX — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 13:43:14 GMT

I am so tired of war mongers! If I have to choose between Mccain and Obama. It will be Obama.

First thoughts: Obama's slight map lead

Steve A Jonesboro IN — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 13:43:41 GMT

Not only is mccain unqualified to be POTUS, he is just plain stupid!

First thoughts: Obama's slight map lead

Lisa, NY — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 13:44:07 GMT

It is still to early to call states...we have seen candidates lose huge leads over the political season summer.

Once BO comes put and says marriage should be between a man and woman (and he will) it should be very interesting to see how his liberal base reacts.

First thoughts: Obama's slight map lead

Andrea, New York City — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 13:44:32 GMT

I don't think that making a joke about someone smoking themselves to death is funny. I don't care who it is! I for one find McSame to be sneering and nasty.

Do the Republicans think that we American people are stupid?

Using Obama as a sneer campaign is not very mature even if we are dealing with a senior citizen that is not up on his game.

Also about Hillary Clinton: Even though everyone got to vote—which is a good thing—Clinton staying in the race when she did not have the resources was irresponsible. It showed bad judgement and asking us small donors to pull her out is plain wrong.

As per FIRST READ: if the shoe was on the other foot. I know there would have been major kicking to the curb.

First thoughts: Obama's slight map lead

Carole, Ft. Laud — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 13:46:29 GMT

MICHELLE ZEE - OBAMA HAS SWITCHED. OBAMA'S FLIP-FLOP AND FAILURE TO LIVE UP TO HIS PROMISE TO OPPOSE THIS LEGISLATION GIVES IMMUNITY TO BUSH FOR MULTIPLE FELONIES AND GIVES CIVIL IMMUNITY TO THE TELECOMS.

First thoughts: Obama's slight map lead

Ed Szewczyk, Belleville, Illinois — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 13:46:48 GMT

The McCain that the PUBLIC fell in love with, or that the doughnut eating MEDIA fell in love with?

First thoughts: Obama's slight map lead

Gail, TN — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 13:47:32 GMT

I can't think of one good reason why I, an Obama supporter, should help pay off Hillary Clinton's debt. She kept digging that hole deeper and deeper. Her campaign wasted money on expensive consultants and expensive hotels and didn't pay vendors on time. On top of all that, she is a multimillionaire! She should pay this debt out of her own money, and no one should expect struggling Americans to ante up for it.

On a different note, I just read a story about Sen. Obama regretting the Access Hollywood interview with his family. He has nothing to regret!! In fact, we need to see more of his family; those sweet little girls make it clear just how much the Obamas have in common with American families. That interview only enhanced and confirmed my sense of how well-rounded and family-oriented a man Sen. Obama is...and how his wife and daughters keep him grounded.

First thoughts: Obama's slight map lead

Nashville_fan — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 13:47:47 GMT

I had a dream that I saw Chuck Todd on Morning Joe saying that the reason we love John McCain is because of the way he carelessly jokes about killing Iranians. It was a dream, right Chuck?

P.S. Funny that Joe Scarborough derides Senator Obama for being a community organizer, and yet one of the great weaknesses of the Bush Administration has been a lack of organization - especially in Iraq and in New Orleans during Hurricane Katrina.

One of the hallmarks of the Obama campaing for the Presidency has been excellent grassroots organization. Why is this something to be made fun of? Is being organized suddenly a bad trait? Did I mention the media is a joke in this election?

First thoughts: Obama's slight map lead

donna — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 13:48:12 GMT

Obama has proven he is the change candidate.

He's changed campaign financing via the internet, and grass roots organinzing.

He changed voter registration from lethargy to millions of voters.

He's changed lobbyist's influence.

He's raised/changed political etiquette by refusing to attack his opponents on gaffes, and personal baggage.

He's changing attitudes toward the old mapping expectations.

He's broken the glass ceiling, the biggest change of all.

If our Nation is to continue as the greatest on earth, we had better get behind all Americans bringing their G-D given gifts to Washington's table.

First thoughts: Obama's slight map lead

Pete - Albany, NY — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 13:48:46 GMT

“I meant that as a joke, as a person who hasn’t had a cigarette in 28 years.” Cindy McCain then corrected him -- it’s been 29 years. She also poked him in the back.

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

Careful, Cindy. You joked around with your hubby once before in 1992 and he called you the c-word for it!

First thoughts: Obama's slight map lead

C_Sexton, Colorado Springs, CO — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 13:49:54 GMT

John McCain was in Denver recently speaking, as usual, incoherently and unenthusiastically.

There was a 69-year old librarian outside the venue with a sign reading "McCain = Bush". I'm sure some of you heard the story.

This is being talked about all over Denver, on both the left and the right, and the common consensus is that John McCain, like his compadre GWB, will not tolerate dissent and chooses to suppress free speech.

Being the toss-up state that it is, this could very well tip Colorado to Obama for good.

Obama 08

First thoughts: Obama's slight map lead

bill, okla — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 13:50:22 GMT

Once again the War Gnome McCain has shown how unpresidential he his. The man is not qualified intellectually, tempermentally and I doubt physically for the job. His stupid cigarette remark is insensitive and sophomoric. Another stupid president is not what the United States needs in a troubled world.

First thoughts: Obama's slight map lead

Jack, Dallas — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 13:50:22 GMT

I am perplexed as to why Chuck Todd seems so, how should I say this carefully, indifferent and doubtful about the Obama campaign
-------------------------------------------------
It's called honest coverage. Just because he's one of the few on MSNBC not falling all over himself in adoration of Obama doesn't mean he's indifferent or doubtful. Doesn't make it perplexing, either.

First thoughts: Obama's slight map lead

Amy B Portland, ME — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 13:50:37 GMT

I read way too much political commentary, and it puts me in a foul mood, as most of the pundits disparage Obama and build up McCain - THEN, new polls come up showing support for Obama increasing and I have hope again (yes, hope!) that America is smarter than the mainstream media gives us credit for.

First thoughts: Obama's slight map lead

Ed Szewczyk, Belleville, Illinois — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 13:51:26 GMT

"Illinois doesn't touch Kentucky. Arkansas does though."

Message to BH OBAMA: Illinois is contiguous with Kentucky. Have you ever heard of Paducah? That's an easy mistake to make for someone who lives in Chicago and not Illinois.

First thoughts: Obama's slight map lead

Keith, PA — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 13:51:30 GMT

McNasty is BACK! The dig at Obama on smoking and the joke about killing Iranians are classic McCain. People will turn against McCain once they see how nasty he really is. The press may see it as endearing but most people will see it as nasty. He earned the nickname "McNasty" in school for good reason.

First thoughts: Obama's slight map lead

Lisa, Ar — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 13:51:35 GMT

Illinois doesn't touch Kentucky. Arkansas does though.
BH Obama - Chicago IL (Sent Wednesday, July 09, 2008 9:24 AM)
_____________________________________________________

I'm going to try my best to pull all that I can to help him.

First thoughts: Obama's slight map lead

a of il — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 13:52:01 GMT

It makes me mad when the media always points out how poorly the democratic controlled congress is fairing in polls. They like to use the words "in all fairness" but never seem to remember to say "in all fairness" the democrats do not have a super majority so everything they have attempted to do since they have taken the majority in congress has been vetoed by President Bush and they don't have the super majority to push their legistlation through. I'm sure they will by fall!!! I can't believe the Bush holdouts haven't seen the writing on the wall and started making smarter deicisions for the country instead of their personal interests but that's a GOPer for ya!

First thoughts: Obama's slight map lead

Class Warrior, D.C. — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 13:52:14 GMT

I certainly will not give a cent to relieve Hillary's self-inflcted debt-through-mismanagement.
I like to hear that Mcshame is losing in his own back yard. I'm resigned to the fact that Obama is resigned to the fact that this FISA bill is the best we'll get out of this not-Democratic-enough Congress, so he'll vote for it.As for Iran, I'm starting to think they're getting paid secretly by the RNC or Team McCain; the bluster about "burning down American interests" and the shooting off of missiles that can hit Israel are playing right into the GOP's hands. Obama will no doubt overcome this with intelligent talk on the talk shows, but you really have to wonder what the hell the Iranians are thinking...giving Bush an excuse to invade Iran as his October Surprise for Mcwar. They must really be itching for apocalyptic martyrdom.

First thoughts: Obama's slight map lead

thats a fact jack — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 13:54:03 GMT

rethugnutz have NO positive arguements to make in their favor so what do they do, yes you guessed right, lie, smear avoid all intellegent discourse and above all blame everything on some one else while taking NO responsibility themselves.

First thoughts: Obama's slight map lead

A.Brocco.Albuquerque,NM — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 13:55:15 GMT

Linda,Boston..
Great insight. The media certainly wants a closer race, otherwise they have nada to report about. McCain is not close in the electoral votes according to other polls that keep track.

First thoughts: Obama's slight map lead

MSierra, SF — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 13:55:15 GMT

From Salon.com:

'...The Washington Post's Dan Balz took a long look at John McCain's economic plan, released yesterday, and offered this informed judgment:

John McCain has been around Washington long enough to remember the days when Republicans constantly clashed among themselves over fiscal policy. Were they the party of Jack Kemp, of supply-side economics and big tax cuts, or the party of Bob Dole and the green eyeshade economics of deficit reduction?

McCain today finds himself with a foot in both camps, though tentatively. He remains an unconvincing tax cutter but he is also an unpersuasive deficit hawk, at least on the basis of his latest economic plan.

And following that observation, Balz served up the Quote of the Day: "He is a pure reflection of the Republican Party he seeks to lead." Hard to argue with that...'

Is he a 'deficit hawk' or a 'supply sider' ?

Probably niether...
Just a political hack who DOESN'T UNDERSTAND ECONOMICS

First thoughts: Obama's slight map lead

J. Ellis, Virginia — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 13:55:42 GMT

I will not give one cent to retire Hillary Clinton's deliberate campaign debt. Thank Goodness she did not win the nomination because she would be an equally bad manager of the country as she was a manager of her campaign. The primary race was over in Feb. and Hillary knew it, but she threw all sound judgement to the wind and kept on campaigning while having no impact on an eventual victory, but she did manage to increase her debt substantially.

That kind of thinking is too reckless and she and her supporters should get themselves out of the mess they got themselves into. I have, and will continue to support Sen. Obama, but will not give anything to pay off Hillary's terrible campaign advisors, namely Mark Penn.

If her supporters want to withhold their support for Barack, so be it. They want to have it both ways while suggesting that it is Sen. Obama's fault for Hillary's disasterous campaign.

She is only reaping what she has sown.

GO OBAMA/BIDEN

First thoughts: Obama's slight map lead

Carole, Mt Pleasant, SC — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 13:56:11 GMT

Republicans in SC believe Obama is crazy to send paid staff here, but he has an excellent volunteer network here. There are a lot of black voters here and a lot of white Democrats who have moved here from Northern states (me). I think they will have to spend money here, however, I don't think that will deter support for Obama. Local news indicates Rep. don't know what to think. Stay tuned.

First thoughts: Obama's slight map lead

John, MI — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 13:56:21 GMT

The electoral map will look very much like 2000 and 2004, maybe some minor adjustments but it will still be close, and one state will hold out in case it is close and they can decide the winner (I could see Michigan democtratic leaders doing this for publicity) and replace florida and ohio.

First thoughts: Obama's slight map lead

donna — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 13:56:51 GMT

Shame on the Clinton camp for dragging Barack through more of their drama. There is always drama with the Clintons. They will never cease to be a distraction. They don't have the capacity to set aside their self serving agenda, be a part of the team, and follow.

The most sincere, and devoted followers will have the prominent places in heaven.

We have bigger fish to fry right now than worrying about Hillary's irresponsible behavior to have stayed too long at a party that was byob, (bring you own bucks).

First thoughts: Obama's slight map lead

shannon, Westfield, Ma. — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 13:57:39 GMT

Why do you keep implying that Hillary needs to save Obama on issues"...Will Hillary give him Cover on this..." regarding FISA? If he needs that much cover, maybe you all shouldn't have jumped in bed with him so soon. Maybe the wrong candidate was picked by NBC?

First thoughts: Obama's slight map lead

MI Chick — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 13:57:40 GMT

OMG - If Morning Moron shills Pat B.'s book ONE MORE TIME I am going to scream. Good grief.

Leave it to McSame to use current events to push his candidacy...just like Bush

First thoughts: Obama's slight map lead

greg, pinecrest fl — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 13:57:43 GMT

Iran needs to be rattled you idiots! you "lay down and let them do anything to you" dem libs are a bunch of wusses! you have to rattle the sabre, and we have a big one to rattle!

Mccain has the right attitude to keep these american hating jokers in line. do you think they cheer for him to be elected as they cheer for obama? they wish for a wimp such as obama so they can acheive their objectives of more power and legitimacy on the world stage.

by challenging a super superpower(either the US or China) you will elevate your status as a third world nation such as most of the middle east.

you all are just really filled with fear and cowardice as to what is really needed to be done and this hack obama provides a perfect channel for the "run and hide' crowd(liberal dems). wimps one and all

First thoughts: Obama's slight map lead

Media - Blues — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 13:57:43 GMT

It may be necessary to begin to dismiss the Media's take on this election.

You guys (not just MSNBC) but the national Media is beginning to be very disappointing.

Americans are not stupid and you guys continue to treat us like we are - we are not asking that you show favortism to any candidate.

But, it's so obvious as to who you guys would prefer in the White House based on your analogies and how you word your stories and how you try to minimize the excitement that this country has for Barack Obama.

The national news media - may cause themselve major damage - if you guys continue to think we are ignorant and will fall for whatever and however you spin your stories.

The internet is a very powerful tool - and people don't need to have a degree in journalism to do research on their own.

WE don't need your stories to determine how we vote and who we vote for....times are changing fellows and you better get with it or you will be left behind like the GOP's and John McCain.

We want fair and fact reporting that's it...we don't need your opinions or spin in determining how we think.

Thank you and GOD BLESS AMERICA

First thoughts: Obama's slight map lead

Andrea, New York City — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 13:58:21 GMT

I see too much oversimplification of facts on the part of the media and voters. Countdown, Matthews and Abrams all put out the facts but folks would rather deal with the half truths than actual facts. Example FISA: It is like nobody is listening. WHY IS THAT????

Of course this has also been the political culture of the past 8 yeras. But this is going to change. I see change all around. Even Pickens is coming forward. Concerned groups are finding dialog.

Obama's administration will deal more with truth and nuance. We will all start learning to think and trust again. No—it will not be easy—but we gotta start being our wonderful American selves again. We are special and unique—all of us.

First thoughts: Obama's slight map lead

greg, pinecrest fl — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 13:58:27 GMT

First thoughts: Obama's slight map lead

ya know — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 13:58:35 GMT

Good read: http://www.pittsburghlive.com/x/pittsburghtrib/news/cityregion/s_576687.html

no, you're worse

First thoughts: Obama's slight map lead

Ron Indiana — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 14:00:23 GMT

Many of the "Toss Up states" polls have Obama ahead, but not beyond the margin of error. Penn. should really be put in the Obama column. Indiana should be in the "toss up" category.
Sometimes being a political analyst is as much an "art as it is a "science". Perhaps Barack could use a vacation. He does look a bit tired. I think he is preparing for his European/Middle East trip. Also, pundits want exciting, sexy news every day. But the "art" to political planning is to peak in late October/early November. Not now. The Conventions, the Debates, the closing arguments will bring this to a peak by November.

Sure maybe the GOP want to create a referendeum on Obama. Think about it, Chuck. That will work> Why? Because the economy is in major trouble, by November gas prices will be $5.00 a gallon. The war will still be going on. There is just too much happening to try to focus on Obama instead of focusing on the issues.

First thoughts: Obama's slight map lead

Marc, Chppaqua, NY — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 14:00:29 GMT

Good to see you are going by the numbers (Electoral College). However, another way to look at it is that John Kerry lost by 19 electoral votes in 2004 (got 251 electoral votes...needed 270). I don't see where Sen. McCain overturns any of the blue states, with the possible exception of Michigan (only if Romney is his running mate).
RealClearPolitics has Obama ahead in Ohio, Iowa, Colorado, New Mexico,Montana, and Virginia (yes, I know it is only July 9th)....that total is 60 electoral votes...Obama only needs 19 of those to get to the magic 270.
Unless Obama makes a major gaffe (the debates?) , I don't see how this is close.

First thoughts: Obama's slight map lead

Tom, Hxy, Ia — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 14:00:52 GMT

To BH,
You're wrong.

I think the article meant that Kentucky PHYSICALLY touches Illinois, not emotionally. Illinois is 50 miles from Arkansas.

First thoughts: Obama's slight map lead

Tom, Hxy, Ia — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 14:00:52 GMT

To BH,
You're wrong.

I think the article meant that Kentucky PHYSICALLY touches Illinois, not emotionally. Illinois is 50 miles from Arkansas.

First thoughts: Obama's slight map lead

Bonnie — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 14:00:55 GMT

A "referendum on Obama"? How 'bout making the election a "referendum" on health care? On education? On foreign policy? On economic policy? On energy? Or rather, the complete lack of media attention on McCain's lack of substance and complete idiocy when it comes to economic issues that are destroying middle class America? Oh, yeah, because they want a RACE. If you want to gauge a candidate by "flip-flops" check out John McCain's "experience":
social security privitization, defense spending, budget-balancing (first or second term? hmmm...), Hurricane Katrina investigations, torture, campaign finance (still under investigation by the FEC, hmmm...), Bush's tax cuts for the rich, abortion, the housing crisis, the estate tax, immigration reform, offshore drilling, gay marriage, the religious right, etc., etc....
Look 'em up. Wanna talk about "flip flops" look no farther than the "straight talk express." Folks should know when the GOP modifies with "straight" it's probably 'bout as crooked as it comes...

First thoughts: Obama's slight map lead

SHIRLEY NW,AR — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 14:01:14 GMT

SOME NERVE THE OBAMA GROUP HAS TO BE UPSET WITH CLINTON. IT WAS ALMOST LIKE HILLARY WAS TIED UP IN A STRAIGHT JACKET WITH HER MOUTH TAPED SHUT TRYING TO RUN AGAINST THIS GUY. HIS SURROGATES HAD FINE TUNED HIS MESSAGE SO CAREFULLY THAT WHATEVER THE CLINTONS SAID WAS TURNED INTO SOMETHING IT WAS NOT. THE OBAMA CAMP CLEVERLY USED THE RACE CARD AND THE GENDER CARD AGAINST BOTH OF THE CLINTONS, WHEN ANYONE IN THEIR RIGHT MIND KNOW'S THIS IS JUST NOT TRUE.
I HEARD CHRIS MATTHEW'S ON MORNING JOE SAY THAT A VOTE FOR McCAIN IS LIKE A VOTE FOR DICK CHENEY. WHAT A LOW BLOW TO THIS HONORABLE MAN WHO GAVE UP SO MUCH FOR HIS COUNTRY. I REALLY RESENT MATTHEW;S MAKING THE COMPARISON. IN FACT THERE IS NO COMPARISON IN THE WAR HERO, WITH TWO SONS IN THE
WAR AND THE CHICKEN HAWK CHENEY WHO DOES NOTHING FOR ANYONE BUT HIMSELF.
I HEAR DIFFERENT NAMES BEING TOSSED AROUND EVERY DAY
FOR OBAMAKINS V.P. THERES KERRY, BIDEN, DODD, RICHARDSON, EDWARDS, MOSTLY WANTA-BE PRESIDENTIAL CANDIDATES WHO RAN AND LOST. THEN THEY THROW OUT A BUNCH OF WOMEN'S NAMES LIKE CLAIR McCASKLE (PROBABLY MISSPELLED). SHE SURE LOOKS LIKE SHE THINKS SHE IS THE TOP DOG IN THIS RACE. NOW FOR ME, A VERY STRONG HILLARY SUPPORTER TO PUT A WOMAN IN THERE WOULD BE THE ULTIMATE TURN OFF FOR OBAMA. REMEMBER THIS
HILLARY RAN AND WON. IT WAS THE DECIDERS IN THE CONGRESS THAT CHOSE OBAMA, ALONG WITH THE MEDIA.
I KNOW ALREADY THAT I TRUST McCAIN MORE THAN I TRUST OBAMA AND THE ONLY WAY OBAMA WILL GET MY VOTE IS IF HILLARY IS ON THE TICKET. COME ON CAROLYN KENNEDY, TELL YOUR GUY HE CAN CHOOSE HILLARY.
IF YOU CAROLYN, WANT TO SEE A LARGE LEAP IN THE POLLS JUST PUT HILLARY ON THE TICKET.

First thoughts: Obama's slight map lead

sotiredofignorance — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 14:01:30 GMT

Why should we be responsible for Senator Clinton's debt? She stubbornly refused to get out when she should have, she and Pres. Clinton have millions, and it was HER CHOICES THAT LED TO THIS DEBT.

If the die-hard Clinton supporters are still out there, it is their responsibility to ante up.

And Lisa, in NY. No one cares who you vote for. We know that there are people out there who are as stubborn as Clinton is. But the word is "moot". How much have you given your heroine to retire her debt?

First thoughts: Obama's slight map lead

Alaskans For Obama — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 14:02:43 GMT

"Could Obama be the one who destroys the republican party for years to come?" Not so fast Tonto. Bush/Cheney already have done that. "Mission Accomplished."

First thoughts: Obama's slight map lead

greg, pinecrest fl — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 14:03:01 GMT

true wishful thinking on the part of the obamanations.

Florida a toss up? thats your first mistake. I live in south Fl. and I can tell you that he stands no chance here and a snowball in hell chance further north.. you got a Mcgovern on your hands Dems! can hardly wait for November! What a fake this guy is! no plans, all talk, not one iota of substance, no experience....how idealistic and SHALLOW all you obamanations are!

First thoughts: Obama's slight map lead

So pissed off venom is leaking out — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 14:03:25 GMT

To: Class Warrior, D.C
Good point! I thought the same thing... how funny Iraq call for a timetable and hmmm isn't that curious how all the sudden Iran is provoking us!
No country for war mongers! Pay no attention to the man behind the curtain

First thoughts: Obama's slight map lead

Nashville_fan — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 14:03:59 GMT

"Of course, this is the McCain the public fell in love with over the last few years, though the timing of the Iran news didn't help. Still, if McCain can't be McCain, then he'll lose some of his appeal."

^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^

I don't have any problem with "McCain being McCain". It's McCain being President that gives me the creeps. We don't need this idiot starting and internationa incident because of what he thinks is a "joke". The fact that the media tries to sweep John McCains irresponsible behaviour under the rug, but pounces if Senator Obama uses the word "refine" is a classic example of media hypocrisy in this election - AGAIN!

P.S. Where is the post about the Iraqis wanting us to leave their country? Guess you couldn't find a way to spin that in McCain's favor, so you decided to leave it out, huh? So typical.

P.S.S. Senator Hillary Clinton and her supporters need to accept responsibility for their actions. The economy is down the drain. Senator Obama and the DNC don't have has much money as McCain and the RNC. The LAST thing we need is to have to shift our focus from the election at hand to the debt of someone who could pay it off herself with 10 speeches.

This is a media created non-issue. The Clintons made this mess and they are going to have to clean it up, and I really don't need to hear too much more about it. It is the past and it is irrelevant.

First thoughts: Obama's slight map lead

Janie Mosley — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 14:04:10 GMT

Dukakis, Gore, and Kerry all had slight leads at this point in the campaign too. This time around will be no different.

First thoughts: Obama's slight map lead

George, Norwalk, CT — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 14:04:15 GMT

Obama = Carter

First thoughts: Obama's slight map lead

greg, pinecrest fl — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 14:04:17 GMT

we need a Mcnasty! we do not need a wimp like obama who will be trampled by seasoned world leaders.

First thoughts: Obama's slight map lead

James Lawton, OK — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 14:08:13 GMT

First read Posters

I would like to know how many of you think Obama flipped on his stance in iraq, I have been following this campaign since oct of 2007 and the stance I heard in Nov is the same as the one he is saying now which is as careless as we got into the war is how careful we have to be getting out. please show first read we do not believe everything they tell us just because they tell us, we do have our own brain and can make decisions on what we have seen from the candidate's themselves. everyone please write in to show we are not going to be mislead by the media in order to make this a closer race and they need to also write about the iraqi gov saying they are ready for us to leave also which was also BHO plan from the beginning. Please give credit were credit is due.

First thoughts: Obama's slight map lead

Bryan, Belleville, IL — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 14:08:20 GMT

Hopefully, you realize that just because 10,000 people show up to see Obama talk about the hope of hope being hoped for, that there are several million people still left in the state who did not go and did not vote in the dem primary. MT and AR as leaning toward McCain? Are you serious? Silent majority is going to shock this nation the day after the election.

First thoughts: Obama's slight map lead

Rick,Ky — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 14:10:31 GMT

Maybe Barack could help get Congresses approval rating into double digits. Their ratings are at 9%? The leftie loons around here could get the ratings to 9%. Do only the loons support the Democratic led Congress?
Car Loons (Sent Wednesday, July 09, 2008 9:31 AM)

Another Disallusioned Republican yells at clouds. All report's of Congress low approval rating's, when broke down, come back to the Lowlife Republican's.
When You have No other choice but to Comprimise in janurary,2009, don't come around here Whining about Your lack of Representation.The GOP (Gay Ole Party)balloon has busted & thier's Not enough Hot air around to fill it back Up. POOF, it's gone for a long, long time.

Deal with it!!! LMAO!

First thoughts: Obama's slight map lead

Eileen H., Portland, Maine — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 14:11:27 GMT

P.S. Funny that Joe Scarborough derides Senator Obama for being a community organizer, and yet one of the great weaknesses of the Bush Administration has been a lack of organization - especially in Iraq and in New Orleans during Hurricane Katrina.

One of the hallmarks of the Obama campaing for the Presidency has been excellent grassroots organization. Why is this something to be made fun of? Is being organized suddenly a bad trait? Did I mention the media is a joke in this election?
Nashville_fan
***********************************************************Yes, being organized, great leadership and management skills, an ability to reasonably assess a situation and deal with it appropriately, along with honesty,integrity and intelligence are all things to be made fun of, hopefully to conceal the obvious, that the Republican candidate is seriously lacking in all of these qualities.

First thoughts: Obama's slight map lead

John, Tampa, FL — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 14:11:55 GMT

We have been WITHOUT FISA since October, which means our constitution has not been whole; this bill does just that. Sometimes, you dont always get what you absolutely want, but a compromise is the best for the time. I do not begrudge Obama at all. I am a moderate Dem, white, vietnam vet,whom could never in a million vote for McBush

First thoughts: Obama's slight map lead

Bill, Chicago, IL — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 14:12:26 GMT

hey BH Obama, check your Illinois map...Illinois and Kentucky do "touch" at the southeastern tip of Illinois. Arkansas does not touch Illinois, that's Missouri! Duh!

First thoughts: Obama's slight map lead

Diane from Illinois — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 14:12:41 GMT

I, too, watched Scarbourgh make fun of Obama's community organiger status (while all the rest of them laughed)this morning and think they should just offer the entire Morning Joe group to Fox News. I've watched my LAST Morning Joe. I can't stand them anymore and think their sophmoric attitudes are not for adult viewing.

First thoughts: Obama's slight map lead

Brandon, Rockville, Maryland — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 14:12:59 GMT

Donna, please enlighten me as to why America, the country without free health care, the country in which 1/4 of its veterans are homeless, the country that invades countries for imaginary reasons, the country that feels it can order the rest of the world to reduce carbon emissions (while not doing it ourselves) is the "greatest on Earth."

First thoughts: Obama's slight map lead

camie — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 14:13:04 GMT

yeah this is sad that McCain wants to keep making these bomb jokes about iran and look whats happening over there. But it is great the the electoral map changed in Obamas favor hopefully it stays in his favor because we difinitely need a new direction in America

Watch McCain talk about crocs and he actually giggles
http://sensico.wordpress.com/2008/07/07/the-result-of-mccains-campaign-re-toolingcrocs-and-giggles/

First thoughts: Obama's slight map lead

Banko — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 14:13:20 GMT

McCain Falsely Claims He Has ‘Never Asked For A Single Earmark Or Pork Barrel Project’ For His State»
http://thinkprogress.org/2008/01/06/mccain-earmark/

The McCains' Credit Card Debt: Dilemma. Is John McCain engaged in "reckless indebtedness"?
http://www.youpolls.com/details.asp?pid=2655

John McCain Exhibiting Symptoms of Early Alzheimer's? (Video intensive) ****
http://www.dailykos.com/story/2008/7/8/05811/29665/134/548031

First thoughts: Obama's slight map lead

OGLiberal, NJ — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 14:13:37 GMT

Please, please, please...New Jersey is not a "leans Obama" state. It's a "base Obama" state. The media is like the GOP when it comes to the Garden State - every presidential election they think it's a place where the Republican candidate might be able to win and every presidential election year, the Dem candidate wins easy. Poppy Bush won it in 1988, mostly running on Reagan's coattails, but that was the last time a GOP candidate won or even came close in the state. The current RCP average for NJ is Obama +10.3.

I also don't think I'd consider PA or NH "toss-ups".

Finally, Congressional approval ratings. If people blame the Dems in Congress for the crappy job they are doing, why do the Dems have an overwhelming lead in the generic Congressional election polls? Why do large majorities of Americans say that they want the Dems to retain control of both houses of Congress in November? Why are the Dems set to increase their majorities significantly in both house? Voters might not approve of the job Congress is doing but it appears they are laying most of the blame at the feet of the Republicans in Congress.

First thoughts: Obama's slight map lead

A Charles, LA, CA — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 14:14:09 GMT

For all the fuss Hillary supporters are making, they seem to be all talk. If she had as many supporters as Obama, why did he have more money???

She lost & they abandoned her financially.

She knew she had lost, yet spent a million a day for a month. How can Obama supporters be expected to donate to that?

Obama needs money now to fight.

Anyone pundit who thought unity with millions of disappointed women would be easy, has never had a girlfriend. Modern women are fighters, they demand everything whether they are right or wrong. (If that's sexist, sorry but it's true).

First thoughts: Obama's slight map lead

Lyn, KCMO — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 14:15:05 GMT

Chuck Todd - you are a disappointment.

I really thought you were the best to follow in TJR's footsteps, and take the lead at MTP...

Your true colors have come throught the past couple weeks, however... You are obviously choosing sides - something TJR DID NOT do...

So much for 'fair and balanced' journalism. You're just another Scarborough buddy...

First thoughts: Obama's slight map lead

carla — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 14:15:13 GMT

Not one dime to the DNC and Washington establishment that was in the tank for Obama from the gitgo!
Even announcing in Jan. 2007 that the 2008 Dem Convention would end on the anniversary date of Dr. King's "I have a dream" speech.

NObama!
PUMA