Kaine sidesteps VP questions

Voting for Obama — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 14:58:40 GMT

"My mom" likes it. Good comeback. I like what I read about him. I really like that he supported Senator Obama from the start. That demonstrates good judgment on his part in my opinion. I would be excited to have him as VP.

Kaine sidesteps VP questions

Stephen, Missouri — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 15:01:17 GMT

I would not be too worried about the polls...that is the same strategy that HRC employed...in the end Obama won. It is clear that FR and MSNBC will find a poll that shows McCain in trailing by a large margin...did you notice this is the first time they had 3 polls in the same day? They just can't stand to see Obama in the lead..

The good thing is that while all these people including Joe, Buchanan, Chuck and the rest try to support McCain's candidacy, the truth of the matter is that Obama will win in the end. I see the repeat of primary voting all over again.

McCain is a sinking ship...Joe was gashing today how much McCain has done...it has taken him 25yrs to even get a nomination...meanwhile, on the audacity of hope....a relatively unknown has earned a major party's nomination despite hostile press, racism and so-called inepexperience, he has wowed world leaders...including a King who volunteered to drive him in Jordan...all honors McCain can dream of.

Obama is a candidate of destine and no matter how much mud is thrown at him, he will still prevail. I look forward to inaguration...maybe it should be held at the mall???

Kaine sidesteps VP questions

Chris, Dorr, MI — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 15:01:26 GMT

OK FR...we are approaching the "beating a dead horse" threshold.

Kaine sidesteps VP questions

Matthew — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 15:05:23 GMT

I know this is unrelated but you guys need to do a story about why Obama 'seems'(for you facetious ones out there) to be getting it right. Especially in a potential 'Ground Zero' state like Ohio. Since it WILL be the 'Economy Stupid' this fall this from your 'First Thoughts' article . . .

"A recent Quinnipiac poll found that 71% of Ohioans support the sick leave requirement, which is almost identical to one in Obama’s proposed economic plan. Sen. John McCain opposes the measure."

I think these sort of 'minor', under stressed details that you in the media refuse to deal with are why I think the Obama narrative will play out antithetically to what you in the media are trying to force it to be. Give the man credit where it is due:

The guy IS listening to the ordinary man and his economic policies are demonstrating this over and over again.

Kaine sidesteps VP questions

Pat, Boston, MA — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 15:08:11 GMT

Barack Obama - 2008.

What has Senator John McCain accomplished? Well, he assisted in allowing the USA to invade Iraq. There was no war. And Iraq had no intention of starting a war. We did, with Senator McCain’s help. Has he turned down his rhetoric yet on Iran? Bomb, bomb, bomb … nice huh? Oh yes, that’s just McCain being McCain.

Donna, I was thrilled to read yesterday that your husband went out and bought for you HBO’s series on John Adams. As someone who grew up in Quincy, Adams is the one founding father I am most intrigued with. I was taught at a very young age that it was John Adams who had the vision for the future of our country and Thos. Jefferson who set this vision down in words in the Declaration of Independence. But I think we can all agree that all of our founding fathers contributed greatly to our independence, each in their own way.

Isn’t it amazing if you listen to John Dean and Jonathan Turley on Countdown, that in this election year, we would be literally fighting to take back our Constitution. I find it unfathomable really.

Just as a suggestion, and if you haven’t already done so, you should go and read about Thos. Paine. He is the one man who inspired our army to keep going during the darkest of days during the American Revolution. He did it by mere words. And even though he came to this country when he was 37 years old from England, many credit him with coming up with what we proudly call “The United States of America”. It’s such a shame our founding fathers didn’t consider him a founding father. No statutes in his honor that I’m aware of. He was quite special.

In the meantime I hope you enjoy the John Adams series.

Kaine sidesteps VP questions

donna — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 15:08:16 GMT

First Read,

Thank you for the mini bio you did on Kaine not long ago. He impressed me greatly. I was most especially taken with his missionary work.

However, 'First Thoughts' timed out, and I have to take issue with you on McCain....below:

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

But as we noted before, everything health related is under a microscope for McCain. Is it fair? No.

-First Read

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

How hypocritical can you people be?

Where is the analysis decrying the unfair nature of focusing, (even hoping for), gaffes from Senator Obama, while Senator McCain not only gets relative passes on his, but has actually benefited from the media having tampered with footage that would have exposed his confusion on foreign policy in Iraq?
*********************************
Speaking of Evan Bayh, and his having attended elite schools, and the attitude of 'elitism' some see as problematic for dems in winning blue collar voters is curious.

Decent people cheer others on who with hard work, and determination find success. It matters not the color of their collar. They do not sit back like those in H.S., who label their hardworking classmates, focused out of a love for learning, as nerds. The underachievers at 17 berating the 'geeks', grow to ridiculing others as elitists later in life.

I don't believe in catering to people's character flaws for the sake of a vote. Shouldn't Americans strive to help one another be better?

Kaine sidesteps VP questions

csh, IL — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 15:08:19 GMT

No Hillary as VP = No vote for Obama.

And Obama cannot afford to lose any of her 18 million voters as reflected in the new USA Today/Gallup poll which shows him 4 points behind McCain.

Kaine sidesteps VP questions

Paul Miller, Woodbridge, VA — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 15:08:28 GMT

Kaine supported Obama from the start because he was prepared to support Mark Warner. And when Warner decided not to run (for who knows what reason... Wolfson), the Warner machine convinced Obama to run.

Kaine sidesteps VP questions

Ron Indiana — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 15:08:44 GMT

Fishin, cast a line here, cast a line there. What kind of answers do you expect? Any potential VP who says too much will be immediately disqualified. Obama has given his criteria: Someone with integrity, someone who will speak his or her mind, someone he trusts and feels comfortable with. Geography will help, but not the primary criteria. Relax, take a pill, we will know when Brarack has decided.

Kaine sidesteps VP questions

twocanpete — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 15:09:45 GMT

Obama has time to talk to everyone but his own family. He travels all the way to the U.K. but doesn't even take the time to shake hands with his brother who lives their. What gives? What about all those family values he's always talking about?http://twocanpete.blogspot.com

Kaine sidesteps VP questions

Colleen, Ithaca, NY — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 15:11:07 GMT

I still beleive that the #1 thing Obama needs in a running mate is a tough, strong debater and attack dog with a strong grasp of the issues. That person is - hands down - Joe Biden.

Kaine sidesteps VP questions

Amy B Portland, ME — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 15:16:24 GMT

Maybe Obama should choose a member of the Mainstream Media as VP? Seems like they are one bloc who's support is critical to winning in November. I agree with an earlier poster who detected disdain for Obama in Chuck Todd's commentary. I still like Todd, and I think journalists are allowed to have their personal opinions, if they still basically report the facts, but I am getting nervous about Obama's chances. It seems like a lot of journalists in the MSM, like Andrew Romero in Newsweek's Stumper, are pro-McCain and it shows. I also agree with a previous poster that McCain has actually benefited from being out of the spotlight, because whenever he makes an appearance he makes it clear he is simply a Bush re-tread. I do hope and pray Obama wins, I think a McCain win will be America's swan song.

Kaine sidesteps VP questions

Ann — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 15:17:18 GMT

Talk about beating a dead horse. Had HRC and her campaign behaved differently in the nomination loss she may have been more highly considered. The fact that Terry M. is still campaigning on national TV, some of her more rabid supporters are willing to hurt the country by a repub vote,Puma still thinks she can win at the convention, blah, blah, blah...not one word from HRC herself to stop this ridiculous yes bitter behavior. Forget it.

Kaine sidesteps VP questions

Don - Dayton, OH — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 15:20:00 GMT

No Hillary as VP = No vote for Obama.

csh, IL

Ditto

Kaine sidesteps VP questions

Beverly in Chicago — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 15:21:07 GMT

csh, IL (Sent Tuesday, July 29, 2008 11:08 AM)

No Hillary as VP = No vote for Obama.

And Obama cannot afford to lose any of her 18 million voters as reflected in the new USA Today/Gallup poll which shows him 4 points behind McCain.
......................................................
Is there no end in sight for you? Hillary knows it. She has moved on can you?

Kaine sidesteps VP questions

NObama — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 15:21:20 GMT

I still beleive that the #1 thing Obama needs in a running mate is a tough, strong debater and attack dog with a strong grasp of the issues. That person is - hands down - Joe Biden.
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Colleen in Itacha: How can he choose Biden who is part of the "old politics" of Washington? BO's in somewhat of a box because he said he'd have people around him who are new and not associated with those "old politics". I think they've probably built part of the White House around Biden since he's been there so long.

Kaine sidesteps VP questions

Brian M. De — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 15:22:06 GMT

I am sorry I love blogging on first read. Some of the people on here are well informed and intelligent people. I hate to say this but I feel all of this speculation about Kaine is nice but the way some of the question was posed was to see if they could turn HRC into a wedge factor. I really like how the Poll taken by that independant group showed yes Obama may get more coverage he also gets more negative thrown his way.I noticed that right after HRC cried media foul is when the onslaught began.So now McBush is trying the same and the Media helps him.I saw how the Media and their bias helped promote Bush through 2 elections and was used as his whore to lie us into war in Iraq. The media needs to be more responsible and not be a Right Wing Tool on purpose or by accident. Thank God when people stand up and question fact and fiction of the media.I am not calling out names or media networks but if you go back and look the same techniques being used on Obama were used on Gore and Kerry. Give them the lions share of stories but let them be negative and let the Republican complain about media mistreatment as he slides in under the radar. A word for 2008 After seeing John McCain make gaffe after gaffe, I see why he was so offended By the " He appears to be losing his bearings remark". The truth stings .

Kaine sidesteps VP questions

Sunshine, Peoria Il — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 15:22:21 GMT

I says Obama sticks with Biden, an effective attack dog.I could be wrong, but to me Kaine seems a little soft.From the look of FOX NEWS & Sean Hannity, the last thing Obama needs is a soft guy who's scared to put the GOP in a tight spot.

Kaine sidesteps VP questions

Bette Jeanne Webb — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 15:22:41 GMT

Obama makes a mistake going with another newbie like Kaine. Biden is the guy. It's very important that he get some foreign policy heft.

Kaine sidesteps VP questions

an84u — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 15:24:08 GMT

I'm so sick and tired of Andrea Mitchell looking emaciated and trying to make profound pronouncements about Obama on a personal basis and of Chris Matthews, et als....including his sycophant stand-ins & talking heads overdoing their Obama fake negativity that I'm close to avowing never to watch them again.

Like McCain, they all make flat statements and try to act like they've been talking to some anonymous, unknown source for verification when it isn't a thing but and effort at stimulating negative reaction.....the STINKERS!! Deliver me!

Kaine sidesteps VP questions

Pat Huntington NY — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 15:24:09 GMT

Who ever Obama picks, he/she will be a million times better qualified than anyone McCrazy is thinking about. In fact, I hope McCranky picks Romney...there's no one who's flipped and flopped and pandered more than McInsane, other than the freak show Romney. Plus, watch the evangelicals drop support because they wont vote for a mormon.

Kaine sidesteps VP questions

an84u — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 15:24:53 GMT

Kaine sidesteps VP questions

donna — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 15:25:10 GMT

PS.

How many blue collar workers, (a demographic to which I, and my husband belong), would rush to the polls to vote of a candidate for President who had no education beyond H.S.?

I hate wedge issues, and the politics that are socially divisive, but doesn't that work both ways?

Kaine sidesteps VP questions

Caleb, Elizabeth, NJ — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 15:25:46 GMT

Brian Schweitzer, governor of MT, would be a much better pick than Kaine

His approval rating in MT is much higher than Kaine's in VA, he's more likeable and a better speaker, he has two more years experience as a governor, he speaks Arabic, he's knowledgeable when it comes to energy policy, has private sector experience, and he has a proven track record of working well with Republicans without being a complete patsy.

Unless he's got some big skeletons in his closet, Obama would be crazy not to pick him.

Here are some links of Schweitzer speaking. The first is a general discussion on how democrats can win in red states, the second a discussion on energy policy.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JUr48lg9Ocs

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6TxRxipXI_w

Kaine sidesteps VP questions

New Independent — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 15:28:54 GMT

twocanpete - Who cares if Obama saw his brother that time? You don't know if they spoke on the phone or maybe the brother couldn't get away? Rather, focus on McCain and his first wife and the ugly divorce. That might tell you a little more about his character.

Kaine sidesteps VP questions

dl, Exeter, NH — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 15:30:30 GMT

No foreign Policy and No national credentials on any issue.

and the VP debate... crap shoot at best.

This is a very bad choice.

Obama's biggest weakness...the unknowns. Kaine = one more unknown.

Change is needed but change is more accepted and popular in a time of "gravity" when it is walking next to the familiar.

Kaine sidesteps VP questions

MIvoter — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 15:30:46 GMT

obama won with delegates whose voters voted for clinton-------superdoopers jumped in and created his primary win.Donna Brazill wrote in oakland press ,last sunday,for hillary voters to get over it---------and support obama or else.Donna is not helping obama,just the opposite.Maybe he should ask her to be vp----she and her henchmen decided obama would get mi votes from undecided and clinton count.She is good and unscupolous--perfect candidate.

Kaine sidesteps VP questions

Teddy, NY — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 15:31:02 GMT

No Hillary as VP = Yes vote For Obama

Teddy, NY

*Hillary undermined Obama in the primaries, so she's disqualified to be VP.

No Hillary as VP = No vote for Obama.

csh, IL

Ditto

Kaine sidesteps VP questions

MSierra, SF — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 15:31:58 GMT

COME ON !!

Edwards, Biden or Richardson
This ISN'T rocket science

No Republican lite VP like Bayh, Nunn, Rendell or Hillary

Get someone that Represents CHANGE and REFORM
Edwards, Biden, Richardson

Being young helps Edwards
Being experienced helps Biden and richardson

They've all survived the primaries
With mixed results, but all considered Presidential

That's vetting

No crooked fund raisers
Nobody in jail
Take you pick

Kaine sidesteps VP questions

New Independent — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 15:32:28 GMT

No Hillary as VP = No vote for Obama.

And Obama cannot afford to lose any of her 18 million voters as reflected in the new USA Today/Gallup poll which shows him 4 points behind McCain.
csh, IL (Sent Tuesday, July 29, 2008 11:08 AM) -

Are you for real? You will either vote for McCain or not vote at all if Hillary isn't vp? So let me see, out of spite, all those Hillary supporters who won't vote, would rather see someone like McCain get in who supports almost the exact OPPOSITE of the policies both Hillary and Obama support? You would rather McCain get to pick the new Supreme Court justices? You would rather McCain be in charge of the war you supposedly hate? You would rather McCain be in charge of our economy? You would rather McCain be the one to try and bring our Constitution back?

God help us all!

Kaine sidesteps VP questions

ASM — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 15:34:13 GMT

Hillary will generate the most excitement as vp but Obama is too much of an egomaniac to allow an equal partner to run with him. Depend on him to find some lackluster politician like Kaine to run so they won't steal his limelight.

Kaine sidesteps VP questions

Colleen, Ithaca, NY — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 15:35:59 GMT

Dear Nobama,

Biden may represent "old politics" to some people, but he has had fresh ideas, especially on foreign policy, and brings an approach that many people would find refreshing - straight up honesty and forthrightness (you know "straight talk" - the concept that used to define McCain until he sold his soul...)

P.S. I doubt that you really wanted an answer from me, but...I guess I'll give you the benefit of the doubt(even though I think you need a new screen name!)

Kaine sidesteps VP questions

Leni Cavaletto,Michigan — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 15:36:04 GMT

May I also suggust the intro to Common Sense byThomas Paine. The third paragraph is particulary on point.

Kaine sidesteps VP questions

Matthew — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 15:36:37 GMT

"Donna"

You definitely have your head on straight! I just had to say that; I've enjoyed reading your posts. As Obama says: "(You) rock!"

Now I wish Chuck and First Read would follow your lead and stop 'Forcing' the public to think that this thing is 'So Close'. If they'd just report things exactly as the candidates say them and stop 'manufacturing' controversies and gaffes then Obama would be 20 points ahead by now. The guy makes more sense and is more consistent and realistic than McSame. The reason he isn't: The Media is DELIBERATELY trying to drive Obama's public likability down so they can continue with their trumped-up narrative that this is a close election!

It is extremely frustrating to me that McCain can have 3 times the Rev. Wright in his ranks, His Lead Economic Adviser can call us 'whiners', he mixes up Shia and Sunni, Mixes up the time line for the Iraq 'surge', embrace Obama's Afghanistan stance, embrace Obama's 16 month timetable, LIE on his adds AND in his speeches, take credit for the GI bill he NEITHER supported NOR VOTED for, Make gaffe after gaffe, everyday, Flip flop on off-shore drilling and the environment, on evangelical stalwarts . . .

AND GET'S NO SCRUTINY FROM THE MEDIA ABOUT IT!!!!!!!!

Yet all they could do when Obama was overseas was wait ravenously to see if he would reverse his position or make some gaffe instead of reporting factually about how the troops, officers and commanders were receiving him!!!

Every single thing Obama says is parsed ad infinitum!

The media are like piranha in feeding frenzy for meat that ISN'T THERE!!

Am I the only one here that is fed up with the MSM??!!!

Kaine sidesteps VP questions

MK,MO — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 15:37:55 GMT

kaine would be a mistake for obama, biden is who obama needs, he is sharp on foreign affairs and is acceptable to most independents and republican fence setters, edwards would also be good, hillary would be a good choice for mccain since their hatred for commoners is on the same level and both are pro corporate domination

Kaine sidesteps VP questions

Banko — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 15:37:58 GMT

Kaine on the Harmonica: Connecting with Voters vs. Readiness to Lead
http://www.dailykos.com/story/2008/7/29/11559/3063/758/558594

Kaine sidesteps VP questions

New Independent — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 15:38:14 GMT

Brian M. De - AMEN! It would serve the media right if someone on the internet would start their own news service and actually listed the facts, wouldn't it! I can't help but wonder how wealthy all these news media people are. I am sure they are well over the $250,000 mark and don't want to see their taxes go up. Also, big business sure as heck doesn't want Obama in.

Kaine sidesteps VP questions

S.B. Stein E.B. NJ — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 15:39:31 GMT

Honestly, is there anything out there to say that anyone that has been mentioned as a VP choice is going to chosen over the others? The speculation is fun, but it getting a little tiresome.

To those that demand Clinton on the ticket as VP, I don't think that would be good nor is it going to happen. The idea that all of those that voted for Clinton in the primary won't vote for Obama in the General Election is just plain foolishness. People need to look at the candidates and see where the candidates sit compared to their own position. If McCain matches up, great vote for him. If Obama matches up better, then vote for him for no other reason than his platform matches your policy goals. If they don't work for you, look at others like Barr, Nader and others. Just VOTE in November!

Kaine sidesteps VP questions

Middleman, Charlotte, NC — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 15:42:23 GMT

There is so much going on in the world, much of it related to politics. MSNBC, please go out and report on something other than who these guys may or may not pick today, tomorrow, next week or three weeks from now. I'm sure you will be informed when one of the candidates makes his choice. You keep chasing around a bunch of rumors and looking foolish in the name of getting the big scoop. For example, it is obvious that the McCain camp used you last week when Obama was overseas. That's no knock on them. Why wouldn't they take advantage of you when you act like a bunch of teenagers babbling about who gets to go to prom with the star quarterback? For the record, I have not submitted any paperwork to either campaign, nor do I expect to be asked to run on either ticket. At least you can now cross one more off of your list.

Kaine sidesteps VP questions

J.D. Rowan — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 15:43:13 GMT

1. Obama's brother doesn't live in England. He just happened to be there visiting his mother.

2. Andrea Mitchell and Chris Matthews just fill up an hour talking about their opinions of the news instead of reporting the news.

3. Kaine is too soft. He needs an attack dog to return McCain's nastiness.

Kaine sidesteps VP questions

Adam, St. Louis — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 15:43:25 GMT

Donna,
You said "Decent people cheer others on who with hard work, and determination find success. It matters not the color of their collar."

Now, first off I AGREE!!!! Success is earned not given and should be applauded. However, because I am a business owner and I make more than 250,000 a year, (according to Obama) I should get taxed more for my success right? So by what you said, Obama is NOT decent because MY taxes will get raised, I am not being cheered I am being cheated out of MY hard earned money. The government didn't GIVE me my money I earned it! So, Even though I pay over 30% to taxes. What do you pay? Jealousy (and yes that is all it is) gets people nowhere. People want money? GO AND GET IT!!!! I did! I personally think, that I deserve NO MORE and NO LESS tax then everyone else! I bet you pay 18%. I would LOVE to pay 18%. It is so easy in this country to make money.

Jimmie Johns sub shops (EXAMPLE, no i do not own a jimmie johns, but would love to, it may be my next venture.), opening year on a franchise makes an average of $130,000! OPENING YEAR!!!! That is an incredible yield! 5 year average is 398,000 dollars! Again amazing yield! And Jimmie Johns will sponsor your opening, you need NO up front money, they front everything for you!!!! People, small business is what keeps this country going, higher taxes on the "rich" (over 250K a year) and that will equal FEWER small businesses! Use your heads people! You want a better economy, we need to get the government to STOP running everything, look at Social Security and Welfare, 2 government run programms and BOTH have horribly failed!

Everyone needs to stop crying about money problems and go get more money if they want it, it is out there ready for the taking, it only takes a little guts and a bit of drive! I had NOTHING, no college no NOTHING! and I was able to open and run a successful business. YOU CAN TOO!!!!!!

If you don't like your lot in life CHANGE IT and stop waiting for someone else to change it for you!

Kaine sidesteps VP questions

matt — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 15:43:29 GMT

Sure looks like Kaine is the choice just by reading the obvious signs. He's in D.C., he's acting all giddy, his friends are calling him "VP Kaine." Intriguing...

http://www.political-buzz.com/

Kaine sidesteps VP questions

Molly — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 15:45:35 GMT

Obama is very Arrogant - since he will never be elected who cares who is VP pick is! He is NOT qualified to lead our country - I will NOT vote for him - and Millions of Americans feel the same way.
As a Dem - I tried to give him a chance - but - the more I learn about him - the more I know he is Not qualified to be Prersident of the USA.

Kaine sidesteps VP questions

Amy Andersen, Eden Prairie, MN — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 15:45:55 GMT

I suspect Kaine could add something to the ticket and might help Obama carry Virginia, but what about Ohio and the other states to the West? If he really wants to run a national campaign, it seems to me that Obama needs to take someone who can help on a broader level. Like Richardson or Biden for example.

Obama/Richardson 08/12

Kaine sidesteps VP questions

Becky C, Charlottesville, VA — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 15:46:34 GMT

Being from Virginia, I have one thing to say. PLEASE DO NOT SELECT TIM KAINE TO BE YOUR RUNNING MATE! We are facing a huge road tax issue in Virginia, thanks mostly to Tim Kaine. He seems to be another Democrat who wants to tax, tax, and more tax. Obama is a great speaker, but I don't want to get stuck with the standard democratic position of constantly raising taxes as the solution to every problem!

Kaine sidesteps VP questions

Sue Smith, Columbus Ohio — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 15:46:37 GMT

I can't believe Hillary supports who refuse to vote for Obama if she isn't his VP running mate. I guess they prefer McCain.

Kaine sidesteps VP questions

MJ,Roanoke, Va. — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 15:47:06 GMT

Paul Miller, "The Warner machine convinced him to run"??? I thought it was the Kennedy machine. Mark Warner did not even endorse Obama until Hillary suspended her campaign.

Kaine sidesteps VP questions

jp,michigan — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 15:47:38 GMT

Obama supporter should worry about the polls, with all the hoopla involved in the dog and pony show Obama took to the middle-east and Europe, and his numbers dropped. The reason Obama won the nomination was due to the pundits, elderly DNC, Howard Dean and the super-delegates. If they had shown that much attention to Hillary, she would have been the nominee. The group mention before will have to answer for their choice.

Kaine sidesteps VP questions

Billy G., Oak Brook, IL — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 15:48:08 GMT

Sorry, but the name Tim Kaine means nothing to me. Obama should go ahead and select him because, as far as I am concerned, it will not improve his chances at getting elected.

Kaine sidesteps VP questions

MELODY PALM BAY FL — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 15:48:50 GMT

NO HILLARY NO VOTE FOR OBAMA FOR ME AND 3/4 OF MY DEM FRIENDS. WE LIVE IN FLORIDA.

Kaine sidesteps VP questions

Robert Harrell,Suffolk,VA — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 15:50:25 GMT

Obama is the worlds hope for peace and jelling of races and religions!We must overcome those things that divide and do those things that can help us all.In the USA we definitely need a fresh point of view and actions.We do not have to look past a $450 billion deficit.over 4,000 troops dead and why? We will win more friends with bread than with bullets!!!

Kaine sidesteps VP questions

Robert L. from Dallas, TX — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 15:53:57 GMT

Kaine seems to be a good choice - but since he is faith-opposed to abortion and is decidedly Pro-Life won't that cause some Bob Casey-type problems?

Kaine sidesteps VP questions

Wyo — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 15:55:05 GMT

I noticed that operation chaos is still blogging. See csh, IL post. "csh,IL" posted:
"No Hillary as VP = No vote for Obama.
And Obama cannot afford to lose any of her 18 million voters as reflected in the new USA Today/Gallup poll which shows him 4 points behind McCain."

This information is false. The Gallop poll for July 28, 2008 shows Obama 48% to McCain 40%. Lies usually are a dead give-away for Republican email blogger teams posing as disgruntled Hillary supporters.
Wyo

Kaine sidesteps VP questions

roger, santa fe, nm — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 15:56:50 GMT

Dodges and weaves. No wonder Obama likes him! A perfect fit it would seem, like attracts like, and two peas in a pod, all seem to fit.

A good fit for McCain would be Bobby Jindal especially if Obama picks Kaine. Jindal would blow Kaine away when they stood side by side citing accomplishments as respective Governors.

If the Republicans want to send a message of change, Jindal would certainly do it.

On the Dem side, they are all part of the same bunch. So we will see what Obama will do. It has been said he would only pick Hillary if he really believed he needed her to win, and Obama doesn,t think he really needs anyone, that he is already President. And he may be right for members of the media are already referring to him as "president.

Kaine sidesteps VP questions

David, Las Vegas — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 16:00:42 GMT

The only thing I can say after reading the blogs above is that the ingorance of the American people never will never stop amazing me!
If we take an old statement - You should judge a man not by the color of his skin but the content of his mind - then why would anyone vote for the most unexperienced candidate in the history of American politics. THe job requires that the individual know four basic areas of government.
1. Foreign Affairs - Obama no exxperience.
2. Military - Obama no experience.
3 Fiscal Responsibility - Obama no experience.
4 Governmental/Legislative - Obama a few years experience but was always running for another job while in all of his political offices.
If you were hiring this individual for a job his lack of experience would not even get him in the door no matter how nice a guy he was. We have had enough presidents lately who were elected without proper experience and look at the state of our nation today. We do not need another president learning the job on the job at the expense of the American people. Wake up America is this the beast we can do?

Kaine sidesteps VP questions

R. Chicago, IL — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 16:00:49 GMT

Picking anyone but HRC indicates that BO believes he can win on his own, without her supporters. Every other VP possibility we hear about is as exciting as a wet mop. I'm not saying they wouldn't do a good job as VP, just that 'these guys' bring nothing to the table where winning the Presidency is concerned, regardless of what state they come from. BO is just filling a position with someone that won't take away from his popularity or anger his base. Can you see any of his picks making a serious run for the White House in 2012 or 2016??? No way.

Kaine sidesteps VP questions

USFreedom — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 16:01:29 GMT

Obama is a poser...he's losing sooo much ground with his taxpayer vacations to see his connections in the Middle East and Europe...what a bunch of bs. He has risen from nowhere...wake up people and start praying...he's the most dangerous person we've ever had as a person "holding office" in our country. You Obama "followers" are brainwashed..he's all lip service...has spoken as a snake oil salesman.

Kaine sidesteps VP questions

Paul Miller, Woodbridge, VA — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 16:04:02 GMT

MJ - You are correct that Warner didn't endorse Obama. But look where Obama traveled first, after leaving his announcement in Springfield.

Anyway, this is the story that's rising to a level of conventional wisdom here in Virginia. Warner really didn't want Clinton as the nominee, and when he was forced to drop out, he looked for a replacement who could beat Clinton.

Consider Obama's early fundraising, too. Do you really think a senator with so few years in the Senate could pull off those numbers without someone behind him? And it wasn't Kennedy. That support wasn't even known until after Iowa. I'm talking about things that may have happened back in the first quarter 2007.

Kaine sidesteps VP questions

C. S. Holt, Apalachicola, Fl. — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 16:04:03 GMT

As a veteran of presidential elections since Kennedy vs. Nixon, I believe that many caucasion voters are having a private, internal struggle over race. These doubts may not show themselves until in the voting booth with no one watching.
Also, as a former, long time resident of Richmond,Va., I believe that ex-Mayor Tim Kaine would be a fine addition to any ticket.

Kaine sidesteps VP questions

brenda, toronto, ontario — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 16:05:48 GMT

I hope obama is a sinking ship and that mccain wins and this is based solely on the honour of the man and the fact that he fought for his country and his children are doing the same thing. cant stand someone who blows it out any oriface he can. waste of time and space is obama.

Kaine sidesteps VP questions

Dan in Portland — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 16:06:30 GMT

Hillary VP = No Vote For Obama.

I can't stand her, she is the face of evil.

Kaine sidesteps VP questions

Rich Minneapolis MN — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 16:06:46 GMT

Polls are always inaccurate. In 2004 they predited Kerry would take the popular vote and it was a tossup for the electoral college well we know not that Kerry did not take the popular vote. Polls fail to take in the decieve factor. There are many myself included that are less than truthful with pollsters and surveys. Just my legal way of messing with the system.
My prediction is McCain will win in a land slide and in 2 years Republicans will once again control both houses of congress.

Kaine sidesteps VP questions

mad in Madtown — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 16:07:02 GMT

When Joe Biden used the phrase "a noun, a verb, and 9/11", he basically initiated the process of eliminating Giuliani from the race. We need a smart, experienced attack dog like Joe to counter all of the lies of the repukes. Senator Obama, please choose Biden!

Obama/Biden

Kaine sidesteps VP questions

Tommy S. — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 16:07:13 GMT

I work in Virginia and based on what people say around me Tim Kaine is considered heavy on taxation and less popular now that when elected. He's supported or put forth about every kind of tax increase he could think of, but the legislature here has not gone alone.

Kaine sidesteps VP questions

qster, MO — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 16:07:28 GMT

It don't matter who is VP is. I will not vote for Obama ever.

Kaine sidesteps VP questions

Bishop, Newport News, VA — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 16:07:33 GMT

Obama will need someone tough. Thats Joe Biden without a doubt. The man has tons of foreign policy experience and will not bs. He will always tell it like it is. Kaine is a good guy but not tough enough for the republican attack machine.

Kaine sidesteps VP questions

Kelly, Irvine, CA — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 16:08:18 GMT

No Hillary as VP = No vote for Obama.
csh, IL

The idea that you'd choose McCain over Obama because you're a sore loser is ridiculous. Are McCain's views really closer to Hillary's?

Edwards is out of the picture as VP because of the possible adultery as well as the fact his wife is dying. I do agree that the VP should be a bit of an "attack dog" because McCain's team will stop at nothing in their attempt to destroy Obama. It's interesting that nearly all of McCain's speeches disparage Obama rather than explain McCain's ideas. Ah, Republicans! It's worked so many times before, but I truly hope this year is different. Hope springs eternal!

Kaine sidesteps VP questions

Joan McHugh-Boise, ID — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 16:10:29 GMT

What a boring choice!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Kaine sidesteps VP questions

Victoria, Phillips Ranch, CA — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 16:10:52 GMT

You Hillary idiots need to get a grip!! That nomination was here to LOSE and she did a BRILLIANT JOB of doing exactly that!!! Don't want to list all the specifics but here are just a highlight or two: Lies (bosina sniper fire), Delusionial campaign staff, introducing her as the "Next President" on the night when she had absolutely LOST, Money problems that still exist, not planning to take the race past Super Tuesday. Good Lord, and THIS is the person you STILL rant & rave about???? Go see a shrink. talk to a preacher get some help people!!! Because if you persist and take your little snide, hateful attitudes into the voting booth in November or even worse, stay home...you'll be the ones with the loudest WHINES when McCrypt-keeper walks into the Oval Office in January. You need to recognize that a vote for McIdiot or a no vote from you snot-nosed brats will be in your own WORST INTERESTS!!! McIdiot is a mean, twisted, arrogant and woman-hating old goat who would probably be in a better mood if Cindy changed his diaper on a more regular basis. Hillary LOST, she's good with it now and you ought to be too. Don't cut off your noses to spite your goofy face!!!! Now run tell that!

Kaine sidesteps VP questions

Richard, Washington State — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 16:11:08 GMT

Oba-MaKaine

Kaine sidesteps VP questions

RuthieM — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 16:11:38 GMT

He's been my choice all along.

Kaine sidesteps VP questions

Rob, Warwick, NY — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 16:12:58 GMT

I find it alarming how close these Obama/McCain polls are. Based on how horrible the GOP is viewed right now, the Democrat should easily have a double digit lead.

The fact that Obama does not.....tells me we have a fairly weak democratic nominee. If Obama does not win in Nov.....I want every DailyKoss'er and every Move On'er BANNED FROM THE DEMOCRATIC PARTY!

Kaine sidesteps VP questions

Joe Buck, Blakeslee PA — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 16:13:01 GMT

If Hillary, Bill and their supporters would loose their self-centered attachement to personal power and whole-heartedly support Barrack there would be no chance of McCaine winning the election.

Kaine sidesteps VP questions

Jym Allyn — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 16:14:06 GMT

My choice for Obama's VP running mate is Bill Richardson. Richardson has one of the most impressive records of foreign policy success of any American, is like and respected by the Hillary camp despite his Obama endorsement, and Richardson would infuriate Republicans because they would know that if anything happened to Obama, he would be replaced by a "Mexican."

(Footnote: I stole the punchline from the Jon Stewart's "The Daily Show." However, it IS true.)

Kaine sidesteps VP questions

Tim, Richmond, VA — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 16:14:43 GMT

Kaine is not even doing a good job as Gov. of VA. Approval rating below 50%, these poor ratings have not been seen from a VA Gov. in some time.

Kaine sidesteps VP questions

Mike Ryan, Tome, NM — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 16:14:54 GMT

The only certainty about Obama's choice for potential VP is he/she will not be an African-American....