AFL-CIO mailer debunks Obama rumors

Chris, Dorr, MI — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 15:48:53 GMT

I like this approach by the big union. Hopefully it helps dispell some of the trash being circulated; and unfortunately being believed by the LIV.

AFL-CIO mailer debunks Obama rumors

matthew — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 15:51:00 GMT

It's about bloody time!

We have to be pro-active this time around. Good for the AFL-CIO! Bravo!

AFL-CIO mailer debunks Obama rumors

jeff D Evanston IL — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 15:51:31 GMT

this is good, put our positive material not negative stuff, being negative did not work for HRC and it should not work for John Mccain, but as we know, john McCain is white and obama is black!!! i wish american could some day get past white verces white!!!
just forget obama was black and he is a white sentor running for persident, with all of mccain flip flop lying and missleading obama would be up by 30 points!!!
so please get past the race issue!!! lets show the world that we have!!!!

AFL-CIO mailer debunks Obama rumors

K, Portsmouth, Virginia — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 15:51:55 GMT

How sad that this is necessary. Is this 21st Century America, or have we gone back to an earlier era of of wanton, willful ignorance?

AFL-CIO mailer debunks Obama rumors

d from IL 4 Obama — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 15:52:28 GMT

it really a shame when our great nation has come to this....

AFL-CIO mailer debunks Obama rumors

Beth, Denton, TX — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 15:53:36 GMT

I have read more than one article that lauds Obama as the "pro-growth candidate", not McCain. Part of this is due to Obama's plans to reform taxation and invest in education. See this interesting article:

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/06/01/AR2008060101917.html

We need progressive ideas, folks, not old ones!

P.S. There's a great article in this week's (7/28/08) Newsweek describing Obama's foreign policy as the most realistic!

AFL-CIO mailer debunks Obama rumors

Amy B Portland, ME — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 15:54:15 GMT

What does it say about Republican campaign tactics that Democrats have to spend so much time debunking lies and personal smears about our candidate? But we do, and we must. Flag pins, flag pins, flag pins, thanks for nothing George and Charlie.

AFL-CIO mailer debunks Obama rumors

Citizen of Rome in Decline — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 15:55:10 GMT

It's a pretty wretched assessment of the RNC and the GOP that these sorts of filthy lies have to debunked over and over.

That Americans who were lied into a war are STILL willing to blindly believe such utter foolishness doesn't sit very well with me, either.

AFL-CIO mailer debunks Obama rumors

Colleen, Ithaca, NY — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 15:55:41 GMT

It's sad that they have to do this, but I'm glad they are...

My 77-year -old mother-in-law is a lifelong democrat (an FDR democrat) who says she doesn't like Obama. I asked "Why?" she said "Well, I just don't trust him..I've never...it's nothing against black people, but...well, we've never had one as president, and I don't know what it will be like. It scares me." She's a nice lady, and would never want to hurt anybody - but this is what she said.

The whisper campaign is the most dangerous thing for Obama - they've got to fight it as hard as they can. The deeply rooted racism in our society - especially among older voters - is hard enough to fight without all of the lies and false attacks.

AFL-CIO mailer debunks Obama rumors

Ed, FW, TX — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 15:55:53 GMT

I agree with Chris. There is so much trash out there about Barack that EXTRA efforts made by Unions and other groups will help their members feel more comfortable. Obviously most the the country has not really tuned in yet.

It's just us pol junkies that pay attention to all the details. Perhaps after VP selection we can take a pause, watch the Olympics and wait for Denver.

Obabm-Biden (still) '08

AFL-CIO mailer debunks Obama rumors

donna — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 15:56:06 GMT

Thank you AFL-CIO.

We are making bricks without straw. We will build voter confidence, albeit without a fair, and balanced media.

The report out yesterday which gave the statistics that Senator Obama gets more media coverage, but qualified that his coverage is over 70% negative proves that we are making bricks without straw.

We couldn't be in better company folks.

AFL-CIO mailer debunks Obama rumors

Paul Miller, Woodbridge, VA — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 15:57:54 GMT

I thought the e-mails might end up working against the Republicans. The claims made in them are so easily refuted, and then it puts people in the position of wondering what else the Republicans have to say about Obama might be lies, too.

You never want to reinforce your negatives in a campaign. Over the past few presidential cycles, the Republicans have built a perception (based on fact, I believe) that they quickly resort to untruthful personal attacks. These e-mails reinforce that negative. The funny thing is they probably weren't initiated by Republicans. But its Republicans who are forwarding them around now.

AFL-CIO mailer debunks Obama rumors

jp,michigan — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 15:58:02 GMT

Debunk the information in the article' Barack Obama's Stealth Socialism' http://ww.ibdeditorials.com "As President , we'll ensure that economic justice is served. That what this election is about." Stated Obama. "Economic justice' simply means punishing the successful and redistributing their wealth by government fiat. It's a euphemism for socialism.

AFL-CIO mailer debunks Obama rumors

Reality Check — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 15:58:02 GMT

It's remarkable that there are millions of low to middle-class Americans, who at this point, will vote AGAINST their OWN self-interest because they've been fooled by the insidious GOP lies and hate campaign. It is these very people who have suffered from free trade and it is these very people who have given the most in terms of their sons and daughters' lives, to Bush's inane war. And yet they'll march once again to the polls and vote AGAINST their OWN self-interest.

AFL-CIO mailer debunks Obama rumors

Lauri Smalls, Providence, RI — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 15:59:48 GMT

I have heard endless tv analysts half-heartedly ask "Why isn't Obama doing better than 3 points ahead of McCain?" -- I mean it's such a joke-- especially when there is data that proves most days and evenings these same folks spend most of their time tearing this guy down -- Good for the unions taking this to their folks. I agree - it's so sad we have to have something like this just to level the playing field...

AFL-CIO mailer debunks Obama rumors

Nashville_fan — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 15:59:52 GMT

The TRUTH is on OUR side.

Obama/Whoever he chooses! :)

'08/'12

(I'm still rooting for BIDEN!)

P.S. You know what gives me peace? Knowing that you REAP what you SOW - and this election is no exception. Senator Obama is about to reap a bumper crop of good will - domestically and abroad. America appreciates Senator Obama's attempt to elevate our political dialogue - he will be rewarded! :)

AFL-CIO mailer debunks Obama rumors

subgruvet, ok — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 15:59:58 GMT

I'm a union member for over 20 years and served eight years in the navy. I'm voting for Obama. And to the jack-asses who keep denegrating the loyalty and service of democrats...I say you've probably never personally done a thing for your country or you'd know better.

AFL-CIO mailer debunks Obama rumors

Senator Obama for President — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 16:00:17 GMT

Yea! Finally some concrete effort to conbat the insidious lies. I know that Senator Obama will be hit hard if he attacks back, but exposing the truth is another thing.
The AFL-CIO mailing is a begining, but more needs to be done.
I am amazed that people would even entertain the thought of these slurs being true, but then I remember that half of the electorate voted for Bush and then I understand the menatlity out there.

I never did vote for Bush, and I certainly will not vote for his twin - mccain.

AFL-CIO mailer debunks Obama rumors

Ron, Phila. Pa. — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 16:00:27 GMT

THIS IS GREAT !

THIS MAY REACH A LOT OF THE LOW INFORMATION VOTERS, AS WELL AS THOSE WHO MAY BELIEVE THE LIES ABOUT OBAMA THAT ARE BEING SPREAD AROUND. IF THEY DON'T BELIEVE THEIR OWN UNION THEY WILL BE IN A MORE DESPERATE ECONOMICAL SITUATION. THINK ABOUT IT, HOW HAVE YOU FAIRED UNDER THIS REPUBLICAN ADMINISTRATION ?

AFL-CIO mailer debunks Obama rumors

The real myth is how anyone believes him — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 16:00:33 GMT

Are they going to bother telling people in the mailers that those myths were created by none other than Senator Clinton's campaign and not by the Republicans? Probably not, but then Democrats are great about pretending that their offenses are really the work of Republicans.

How about dispelling other "myths" while they are at it. You know "myths" like:

- Senator Obama favors higher taxes.
- Senator Obama is against increasing our own supplies of energy and his idea of an energy plan is "people won't use as much when it is too expensive... thus saving the supply of energy".
- Senator Obama seems to care more about how the "world" (how is it again that the "world" is defined as Germany, France, and Russia?) views him than the average American.

Yes, please dispell those myths while you are at it. I know, I will get all sorts of attacks calling me a stupid Republican (I am actually an Independent but lets not worry about that detail), or my favorite in calling my intollerant because I dare to question the great prophet of Senator Obama. You know the standard attacks that won't address my points, rather just stoop to the level of a 3rd grader on the playground.

AFL-CIO mailer debunks Obama rumors

ST — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 16:02:53 GMT

i think this is useful, pragmatic.

Question: what is the AFL-CIO? what's that stand for? Thanks.

AFL-CIO mailer debunks Obama rumors

LJ — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 16:03:42 GMT

I agree, it's a sad state our country is in when an American man has to defend his patriotism and religious beliefs. Obama is a black man, yes it's true, but McCain is a white man and no better than a wad of gum gooing up the bottom of your shoe on a hot city sidewalk. I would choose strong and courageous over weak and desperate, any day.

AFL-CIO mailer debunks Obama rumors

Dan, New York, NY — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 16:04:09 GMT

The GOP is up to its shady voter suppression tactics again, this time in VA, take a look:

http://strategy08.wordpress.com/2008/07/29/va-gop-head-warning-people-not-to-register/

AFL-CIO mailer debunks Obama rumors

The real myth is... — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 16:04:26 GMT

Wow... in the time it took my to write my previous post I was already proven correct. I already see the posts claiming that the negative rumors (for the record I didn't believe them when Senator Clinton came up with them to begin with) were started by Republicans and that the old and lower poorer class are against Senator Obama because he is an African American. Thank you for confirming my belief in the average liberal on this site.

AFL-CIO mailer debunks Obama rumors

Rick, NC — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 16:04:47 GMT

My 77-year -old mother-in-law is a lifelong democrat (an FDR democrat) who says she doesn't like Obama. I asked "Why?" she said "Well, I just don't trust him..I've never...it's nothing against black people, but...well, we've never had one as president, and I don't know what it will be like. It scares me." She's a nice lady, and would never want to hurt anybody - but this is what she said.

The whisper campaign is the most dangerous thing for Obama - they've got to fight it as hard as they can. The deeply rooted racism in our society - especially among older voters - is hard enough to fight without all of the lies and false attacks.
Colleen, Ithaca, NY (Sent Tuesday, July 29, 2008 11:55 AM)
*************************************************

Colleen hit it right on the head...the whisper campaign is in full force...all that mccain has to do is scare a few million old white people into believing that he will kill someone elses grandkids in his centuries old war or that a black man will come and take their virginal daughters...great stuff man

AFL-CIO mailer debunks Obama rumors

MK,MO — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 16:04:56 GMT

why has mccain not been questioned on his promise to not run a "dirty" campaign when he has resorted to misleading, false and derogatory statements and nothing else? as far as that goes why has he not been questioned on anything? instead of talking about the “surge” working why not ask him why he didn’t have enough sense to stay out of iraq in the first place? "my friends"

AFL-CIO mailer debunks Obama rumors

Biased — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 16:06:17 GMT

Spot on JP.
I saw an interview with Obama where he stated he "saw the capital gains rate somewhere around 30%. The interviewer brought up that the last two times the capital gains tax was lowered it brought more money into the government coffers. Obamas response - "its about being fair" Really I thought Tax's were about getting the government money. Silly me.

AFL-CIO mailer debunks Obama rumors

Matthew — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 16:08:24 GMT

Collen, Ithaca, NY

I got goose bumps hearing that. Unfortunately that is what is going on all in middle America. That is why Hillary won so handily in KY and WV and SD. They really were voting 'against' Obama', not 'for' Hillary.

We have to keep at it. This is one time where AGE isn't the wiser. This election will be won by the candidate who can bring out the Younger voters 18-45/50. Historically though they've proven to be very unreliable but people like your Mother-in-law are as reliable as the tides coming in and out every day.

There is hope though. Obama seems to be lambasting McCain in support from this demographic and more often than not THEY don't have land lines and/or aren't at home to be polled . . . like me. And they tend to be better educated and much more technologically savvy.

This is one election where I think that the YOUTH know what is good for this country.

Have Hope Colleen :-)

AFL-CIO mailer debunks Obama rumors

Andrea, New York City — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 16:08:26 GMT

Thank goodness that the union is putting out a positive message about Barack.

I see that the media is becoming increasingly nasty toward Barack as he keeps making bigger and better strides.

It seems that white folks really DO NOT WANT an African American President. With all of his great qualities and his exceptional performance with our allies and foes —it still provokes snide and mean remarks.

The media spends hours focusing on what Barack did not do—spins it into lies and then runs around wondering WHY HE CAN'T CLOSE THE DEAL.

When are you going to get a conscience????

AFL-CIO mailer debunks Obama rumors

Andrea, New York City — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 16:08:44 GMT

AFL-CIO mailer debunks Obama rumors

C.K. Steele Fort Lauderdale, FL — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 16:10:13 GMT

I am glad that the AFL-CIO is contributing some muscle to debunk the scurrilous rumors out there about Sen. Obama. Unfortunately there is a key individual out there who has been sitting on their hands and the recent appearance by McAuliffe has been the red flag I've been searching for. I didn't want to discuss this at all because I was hoping that people had made their peace and understand that this is not a game. I knew that any VP decision made by Obama would give the media the chance to use one of their final 3 weapons (HRC as a wedge).

PUMA is a fringe element that was financed by a McCain supporter but there are many who are willing to be used just as there are many who hate Bush but need just a sneeze to give them a reason not to vote for Barack. Never mind that McCain may actually be worse than Bush with his horrible temper.

There are many powers at work behind the scenes and while I'm not quick to smack my fellow Democrats but we have to grow up. The truth is most of these rumors and innuendo were put out front by the Clinton campaign. Right now there is a bargaining going on and that is why we have not seen Bill or Hill. She could stop a lot of this foolishness but she feels that would weaken her bargaining posture. Her surrogates that now have to support Sen. Obama usually show no spirit, cave into the Repub opposition, and sometimes cause Barack more problems. This isn't an accident. Look at Carville, he's not trying at all. Does he look like he did when he was issuing out "Judas" decrees? I will repeat this again. THIS IS NOT A GAME! If you really feel that McCain is your guy then fine vote for him but stop saying that you're a Democrat. Did these people give it their all when Al Gore or John Kerry needed them? We have been paying the price for those kind of prideful decisions since. I have so much more to say but I will stop it here for now...

AFL-CIO mailer debunks Obama rumors

Turn the channel on fauxnews — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 16:11:10 GMT

Reality Check- Just a reminder that faux news is out here brain-washing these people with their "fair and balanced' reporting.
Anyone who subjects themselves to unhealthy political junkfood, will not be able to make healthy political decisions.
The most unAmerican programing in America is foxnews. In my opinion, foxnews should be right along with cigarettes, banned from TV.

FR--This is my opinion, not yours and I expect to be printed. You keep shutting my criticism of them out. Stop it.

AFL-CIO mailer debunks Obama rumors

Nj — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 16:11:11 GMT

And for the Hill supporters. Here is Hill trying to get money from people as her and hubby are multi millionaires. She could not organize her campaign but we should want her as a prez???
Same for McShame

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2008/07/29/hillary-clinton-turns-to_n_115610.html

AFL-CIO mailer debunks Obama rumors

Matthew — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 16:12:34 GMT

AFL-CIO mailer debunks Obama rumors

McCain Not Wearing Flag Pin in MONTHS!! — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 16:13:27 GMT

And one more message - John McCain has not worn a fly pin in over 4 months! Wow - stop the presses - that's what they did to Obama! Just look at all the pictures and videos - current ones that is.

AFL-CIO mailer debunks Obama rumors

Ron Indiana — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 16:13:33 GMT

It's really hearening to see so many Obama supporters on First Read. I suspect many of us are part of the million and half people who have financially supported Barack. Recently an Obama office opened in my community and I plan to be a foot soldier to help color Indiana from purple to blue. I'm kinda curious how many others have or will be taking the step to end the disgrace of Bush and the GOP legacy? With 98 days till the election, it's time to get busy.

AFL-CIO mailer debunks Obama rumors

Chris, Phoenix, AZ — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 16:13:45 GMT

For the many of us that look at this site and other poltical news sources on a daily basis, as well as watching Countdown, Hardball and other programs regularly, it can be hard to understand how people could be so in the dark about the amazing primary race and these questions about Barack.

But having grown up on a small farm in the mountains of Maine, I know as much as anyone that the information age still has little impact on rural communities especially. I am glad to see the AFL-CIO recognizing that more needs to be done on an old-fashioned information basis to combat the GOP taking advantage of people that may not be reached by cable news and internet blogging.

I think Democrats have often been fooled into thinking that information has been disseminated through new media, while the GOP constantly benefits from voter ignorance of politicians that are fighting for their interests.

AFL-CIO mailer debunks Obama rumors

Don - Dayton, OH — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 16:13:49 GMT

To: jeff D Evanston IL

Being negative DID work for Obama. He and David Alexrod (obama's mini-rove) did a real number on the Clintons, painting them as racists. It got to the point where NO ONE could say anything against Obama without being called a racists. If the Obama campaign hadn't played their race cards, Hillary Clinton would be the nominee.

As far as race goes, most of us could not care less about the color of his skin. The only color that scares me is how green obama is (and I don't mean that in an environment context).

No matter what color Obama is, this is NOT his moment, this is NOT his time, unless HRC is on the ticket!

AFL-CIO mailer debunks Obama rumors

Benny, SFBayArea, California — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 16:14:39 GMT

And as far as debunking goes. Everyone who is bitching and moaning about all the coverage Obama gets or that John Sydney McCain III does not get should take note:

The Center for Media and Public Affairs at George Mason University, where researchers have tracked network news content for two decades, found that ABC, NBC and CBS were tougher on Obama than on Republican John McCain during the first six weeks of the general-election campaign.
Insane right? Not really. Here are the facts:

Positive statements for Obama: 28%
Positive statements for McCain: 43%

Negative statements about Obama: 72%
Negative statements about McCain: 57%

So, its not quantity, its the QUALITY of the reporting that should be the concern. Sure, you want coverage but if 72% of that coverage is negative, then there is an undeniable bias against you.

AFL-CIO mailer debunks Obama rumors

Please — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 16:15:26 GMT

Obama's campain is doing the right thing here yes but I agree that it's sad they have to. The GOP has lowered themselves to the point of STUPID and you can't fix STUPID. What's left for them to spin anyway? "They got not'n" Bye!

OBAMA 08!!!

AFL-CIO mailer debunks Obama rumors

USAFVET, Tucson, AZ — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 16:15:38 GMT

Colleen, That's a brave and honest post! I'm sure that she's a nice lady. Keep working on her and her friends.

AFL-CIO mailer debunks Obama rumors

Mark, Seattle — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 16:16:36 GMT

What happened to McCain running a campaign that rose above lies and attacks?
The new ad I saw last night is a huge lie. Every line is outright false.
The ad clearly says that Obama votes against funding our troops. The fact is Obama voted against one war funding bill because it did'nt include a timeline. McCain also voted against one bill and urged W to veto it because he didnt like some of the language in it. The ad says that Obama has never attended one meeting on Afghanistan. Also false. Obama has attended several meetings with the focus group. And worst of all that ad states that Obama "went to the gym instead of visiting our wounded soldiers". WOW! Obama did not visit our wounded in Germany because he did not want to turn it into a photo-op OUT OF RESPECT for our wounded soldiers. Oh and Obama went to the gym with a bunch of soldiers.
Why do we have to go through this bullsh*t every single election. Anyone with a shred of common sense knows that both Obama and McCain both care about our troops and would like nothing more than to win in Afghanistan and Iraq and bring them home. The differences we should all be focusing on is what there definition of "win" is and there extremely different policies concerning foreign and domestic policy.
A series of face to face and honest debates is what this country really needs right now.

AFL-CIO mailer debunks Obama rumors

Michelle — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 16:16:57 GMT

Low to middle class think for whom you are to vote. Please notice that McCaine has mental issues he flip flops every minute, taxes, equal pay for women, birth control, war, healthcare, economy, some of this has to do with age factor but the rest is that he does not have to worry because he has money.The Republicans and McCain grow on incorrect information and counts on you to do what they want done. They do not think on what needs to be done so we have a better life and our children. it's the way for them to keep control over low and middle class , keep us in fear!!! We do not need McCaine , we need a change and this is what Obama offers.

AFL-CIO mailer debunks Obama rumors

A Latte Lover, Seattle, WA — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 16:17:30 GMT

It's interesting, yesterday I received two anti-Obama emails, and I have received many of them. I was able to debunk them very easily, and made the sender look like an idiot. I'm tired of people just forwarding these things without bothering to fact check. But, the fact is, and my point being, It occurred to me that I have yet to receive ANY anti-McCain emails...One of those things that make you go hmmmmmmm

Obama/Biden, 08

AFL-CIO mailer debunks Obama rumors

Oscar, Rio Vista CA — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 16:18:31 GMT

I am not only angry with all this nonsense but I am also very angry with the media. Did you all know that even though Barack had a brilliant week last week and McCain's was a nightmare, it was Barack that received the most negative press. For example, with CBS -- Barack 28% positive and 72% negative while their friend McCain got 43% positive and 57% negative. I tell you, my blood was boiling when I saw that.

And what about the ad with lies about Barack not visiting injured troops. What did th media do... say it was a great ad because now Barack has to defend it. Bad news for Obama was the voice of the media. Why can't lying and deceiving be a bad trait for a president. I have had enough of the media and their pandering. And that includes you MSNBC. Keith Olbermann seems to be the only guy who is interested in the truth. Why don't any of you print all the bills that McCain has voted against when it comes to the troops.

PLEASE PRINT. I was ignored yesterday.

AFL-CIO mailer debunks Obama rumors

Matthew — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 16:18:39 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??!!!

AFL-CIO mailer debunks Obama rumors

BL, Cincinnati OH — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 16:19:20 GMT

When will the media start pushing John McCain and confronting him on his record:

John McCain voted AGAINST:

8/2/07 Vote 307: H R 976: Expansion of the State Children's Health Insurance Program. The bill increases total funding for the program to $60 billion over the next five years and provides health insurance for 9 million currently uninsured American children.

July 29, 2005, H. R. 6; Energy Policy Act of 2005 - The bill called for increase use of alternative fuels such as ethanol and offered incentives for development of alternative energy sources (such as wind and solar), tax breaks for hybrid cars, construction of more energy efficient buildings.

3/13/08 Vote 49: S CON RES 70: Salazar Amdt. No. 4196 as Modified; To reform the estate tax to avoid subjecting thousands of families, family businesses, and family farms and ranches to the estate tax.

9/20/07 Vote 343: H R 1585: Boxer Amdt. No. 2947; To reaffirm strong support for all the men and women of the United States Armed Forces and to strongly condemn attacks on the honor, integrity, and patriotism of any individual who is serving or has served honorably in the United States Armed Forces, by any person or organization.

9/19/07 Vote 341: H R 1585: Webb Amdt. No. 2909; To specify minimum periods between deployment of units and members of the Armed Forces deployed for Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom.

9/19/07 Vote 340: On the Cloture Motion: Motion to Invoke Cloture on the Specter Amdt. No. 2022; To restore habeas corpus for those detained by the United States.

Vote 307: H R 976: H.R.976 As Amended; Small Business Tax Relief Act of 2007 - The bill increases total funding for the State Children's Health Insurance Program to $60 billion over the next five years and provides health insurance for 9 million currently uninsured American children, paid for by a 61-cent increase in the federal tobacco tax.

7/20/07 Vote 272: H R 2669: H.R. 2669 as Amended; College Cost Reduction Act of 2007

7/19/07 Vote 254: H R 2669: Murkowski Amdt. No. 2329; To increase the amount appropriated for the college access partnership grant program.

7/18/07 Vote 253: On the Motion to Proceed: Motion to Proceed to H.R. 2669; College Cost Reduction Act of 2007

7/11/07 Vote 243: H R 1585: Hagel Amdt. No. 2032; To limit the length of deployment of members of the Armed Forced for Operation Iraqi Freedom.

7/11/07 Vote 241: On the Cloture Motion: Motion to Invoke Cloture on the Webb Amdt. No. 2012; To specify minimum periods between deployment of units and members of the Armed Forces for Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom.

1/17/07 Vote 14: S 1: Bennett Amdt. No. 81, As amended; To permit travel hosted by preapproved 501(c)(3) organizations.

1/11/07 Vote 7: On the Motion: Motion to Instruct Sgt. at Arms; A bill to provide greater transparency in the legislative process.

9/28/06 Vote 256: S 3930: Rockefeller Amdt. No. 5095; To provide for congressional oversight of certain Central Intelligence Agency programs.

9/13/06 Vote 246: H R 4954: Menendez Amdt. No. 4999; To improve the security of cargo containers destined for the United States.

9/6/06 Vote 232: H R 5631: Feinstein Amdt. No. 4882; To protect civilian lives from unexploded cluster munitions.

7/25/06 Vote 214: S 403: Lautenberg Amdt. No. 4689; To authorize grants to carry out programs to provide education on preventing teen pregnancies, and for other purposes.

6/21/06 Vote 179: S 2766: Kennedy Amdt. No. 4322; To amend the Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938 to provide for an increase in the Federal minimum wage.

6/20/06 Vote 176: S 2766: Dorgan AMdt. No. 4292; To establish a special committee of the Senate to investigate the awarding and carrying out of contracts to conduct activities in Afghanistan and Iraq and to fight the war on terrorism.

5/4/06 Vote 112: H R 4939: H.R. 4939, As Amended; Emergency Supplemental Appropriations Act for Defense, the Global War on Terror, and Hurricane Recovery, 2006

5/4/06 Vote 111: H R 4939: Thune Amdt. No. 3704; To provide, with an offset, $20,000,000 for the Department of Veterans Affairs for Medical Facilities.

4/26/06 Vote 98: H R 4939: Akaka Amdt. No. 3642 as Amended; To provide an additional $430,000,000 for the Department of Veteran Affairs for Medical Services for outpatient care and treatment for veterans.

4/26/06 Vote 95: H R 4939: Reid Amdt. No. 3604; To provide, with an offset, emergency funding for border security efforts.

3/16/06 Vote 67: S CON RES 83: Kerry Amdt No. 3143; To prevent the imposition of excessive TRICARE fees and co-pays on military retirees.

3/16/06 Vote 64: S CON RES 83: Akaka Amdt No. 3071; To increase funding for Title I grants and reduce debt by closing corporate tax loopholes.

3/16/06 Vote 63: S CON RES 83: Stabenow Amdt No. 3141; To provide an assured stream of funding for veteran's health care that will take into account the annual changes in the veteran's population and inflation to be paid for by restoring the pre-2001 top rate for income over $1 million, closing corporate tax loopholes and delaying tax cuts for the wealthy.

3/16/06 Vote 61: S CON RES 83: Dorgan Amdt No. 3102; To increase funding by $1 billion for various tribal programs and provide necessary additional funding based on recommendations from Indian country, by closing corporate tax loopholes.

3/16/06 Vote 60: S CON RES 83: Sarbanes Amdt No. 3103; To restore funding for the civil works programs of the Corps of Engineers, the Federal Water Pollution Control State Revolving Fund, the National Park Service, the Forest Service, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Federal conservation programs, and other natural resource needs, through an offset achieved by closing corporate tax loopholes.

3/16/06 Vote 59: S CON RES 83: Lieberman Amdt No. 3034; To protect the American people from terrorist attacks by providing $8 billion in additional funds for homeland security government-wide, by restoring cuts to vital first responder programs in the Departments of Homeland Security and Justice, by providing an additional $1.2 billion for first responders, $1.7 billion for the Coast Guard and port security, $150 million for chemical security, $1 billion for rail and transit security, $456 million for FEMA, $1 billion for health preparedness programs, and $752 million for aviation security.

3/16/06 Vote 58: S CON RES 83: Specter Amdt No. 3048; To increase the advance appropriations allowance in order to fund health, education and training, and low-income programs.

3/16/06 Vote 57: S CON RES 83: Reed Amdt. No. 3074; To increase funding for the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program by $3,318,000,000 for fiscal year 2007, increasing the funds available to carry out that program to the fully authorized level of $5,100,000,000, to be paid for by closing corporate tax loopholes.

3/16/06 Vote 55: S CON RES 83: Conrad Amdt No. 3133; To increase funding to combat avian flu, increase local preparedness, and create a Manhattan Project-like effort to develop a vaccine to inoculate the U.S. Population against a pandemic by $5 billion in FY 2007 paid for by requiring tax withholding on government payments to contractors like Halliburton.

3/15/06 Vote 47: S CON RES 83: Menendez Amdt. No. 3054; To provide an additional $965 million to make our ports more secure by increasing port security grants, increasing inspections, improving existing programs, and increasing research and development, and to fully offset this additional funding by closing tax loopholes.

3/15/06 Vote 45: S CON RES 83: Stabenow Amdt. No. 3056; To provide $5 billion for our emergency responders so that they can field effective and reliable interoperable communications equipment to respond to natural disasters, terrorist attacks and the public safety needs of America's communities and fully offset this by closing tax loopholes and collecting more from the tax gap.

3/15/06 Vote 43: S CON RES 83: Murray Amdt. No. 3063; To restore funding for the Community Development Block Grant Program to the fiscal 2004 level by closing tax loopholes previously slated for elimination in Senate-passed legislation.

3/14/06 Vote 41: S CON RES 83: Akaka Amdt. No. 3007; To increase Veterans medical services funding by $1.5 billion in FY 2007 to be paid for by closing corporate tax loopholes.

3/14/06 Vote 39: S CON RES 83: Kennedy Amdt. No. 3028; To support college access and job training by: (1) restoring program cuts slated for vocational education, TRIO, GEAR UP, Perkins Loans, and other student aid programs; (2) increasing investment in student aid programs, including increasing the maximum Pell Grant to $4,500; and (3) restoring cuts slated for job training programs; paid for by closing $6.3 billion in corporate tax loopholes.

3/8/06 Vote 35: S 2349: Reid Amdt. No. 2932; To provide additional transparency in the legislative process.

3/7/06 Vote 34: S 2320: Snowe Amdt. No. 2913; To improve the distribution of funds to States under there Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program.

2/2/06 Vote 7: On the Motion: Motion to Waive CBA Dodd Amdt. No. 2735; To support the health needs of our veterans and military personnel and reduce the deficit by making tax rates fairer for all Americans.

2/2/06 Vote 6: On the Motion: Motion to Waive CBA Clinton Amdt. No. 2716; To establish a congressional commission to examine the Federal, State, and local response to the devastation wrought by Hurricane Katrina in the Gulf Region of the United States especially in the States of Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, and other areas impacted in the aftermath and make immediate corrective measures to improve such responses in the future.

_____

John McCain voted FOR:

May 11, 2006: H.R.4297 Conference Report; Tax Relief Act of 2005.
The Washington Post reported that "the tax agreement would cut revenue to the Treasury by $90 billion over the next five years, but other measures would raise about $21 billion -- for a net loss to the Treasury of about $69 billion." The Washington Post reported that "middle-income households would receive an average tax cut of $20 from the agreement, according to the joint Urban Institute-Brookings Institution Tax Policy Center, while 0.02 percent of households with incomes over $1 million would receive average tax cuts of $42,000."

December 21, 2005, S. 1932, With an Amdt.; Work, Marriage, and Family Promotion Reconciliation Act of 2005 - This bill cut nearly $40 billion over five years from the federal budget by imposing substantial changes on welfare, child support and student lending programs. Women on welfare would face longer hours of work, Medicaid recipients would face higher co-payments and deductibles, and more affluent seniors would find it more difficult to qualify for Medicaid-backed nursing care.

March 10, 2005, S. 256 As Amended; Bankruptcy Abuse Prevention and Consumer Protection Act of 2005 - This law made it harder for people to erase debt by declaring bankruptcy. A Washington Post report said the law represented the most significant change to bankruptcy law in 25 years. The bill was backed by the White House, the credit card industry, retailers, and financiers. The Washington Post reported that the "banking, credit card, and retail" industries, supporters of the bill, gave more than $56 million to candidates and parties during the 2004 elections, most of it going to Republicans.

3/23/07 Vote 102: S CON RES 21: Kyl Amdt. No. 583; To reform the death tax by setting the exemption at $5 million per estate, indexed for inflation, and the top death tax rate at no more than 35% beginning in 2010; to avoid subjecting an estimated 119,200 families, family businesses, and family farms to the death tax each and every year; to promote continued economic growth and job creation; and to make the enhanced teacher deduction permanent.

1/18/07 Vote 17: S 1: Bennett Amdt No. 20; To strike a provision relating to paid efforts to stimulate grassroots lobbying.

9/7/06 Vote 237: H R 5631: Motion to Table (Kill) Schumer Amdt. No. 4897; To make available up to an additional $700,000,000 for Drug Interdiction and Counter-Drug Activities to combat the growth of poppies in Afghanistan, to eliminate the production and trade of opium, and heroin, and to prevent terrorists from using the proceeds for terrorist activities in Afghanistan, Iraq, and elsewhere, and to designate the additional amount as emergency spending.

9/7/06 Vote 236: H R 5631: Motion to Table (Kill) Menendez Amdt. No. 4909; To prohibit the use of funds for a public relations program designed to monitor news media in the United States and the Middle East and create a database of news stories to promote positive coverage of the war in Iraq.

9/6/06 Vote 233: H R 5631: Motion to Table (Kill) Kennedy Amdt. No. 4885; To include information on civil war in Iraq in the quarterly reports on progress toward military and political stability in Iraq.

8/2/06 Vote 222: H R 5631: Motion to Table (Kill) Durbin Amdt. No. 4781 As Modified; To appropriate, with an offset, an additional $2,000,000 for Research, Development, Test and Evaluation, Army for the improvement of imaging for traumatic brain injuries.

6/14/06 Vote 169: S 2766: Motion to Table (Kill) Dorgan Amdt. No. 4230; To improve Federal contracting and procurement by eliminating fraud and abuse and improving competition in contracting and procurement and by enhancing administration of Federal contracting personnel.

5/23/06 Vote 141: S 2611: Motion to Table (Kill) Kennedy Amdt. No. 4106; To enhance the enforcement of labor protections for United States workers and guest workers.

AFL-CIO mailer debunks Obama rumors

Stephen, Missouri — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 16:19:48 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???

AFL-CIO mailer debunks Obama rumors

marty holloman columbia s.c. — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 16:21:23 GMT

Again I will try to post, 5 times thsi morning. It is about time someone anyone tries to debunk all this bunk surrounding Obama. Thsi is the most important election of our time. I am a 62 year old white woman from S.C. Make less than 30k . The GOP will lie steal and cheat to get McCain in the whitehouse and
another 4 years with bush policys will see the end of people like me. The only consideration will be for the wealthy and the no bid contracts and oil deals that make them wealthy. Thanks to those poster who give me hope everyday. I know I have only one vote and it goes to Obama and whoever he picks for veep.
my choice is biden
Obama/Biden 08
marty

AFL-CIO mailer debunks Obama rumors

Diane from Illinois — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 16:22:02 GMT

I agree with all the above posts, however we are "assuming" these low information voters will actually READ this literature. How many do they recieve during a campaign and how many are just thrown out as "junk mail". The GOP is counting on this. There are more people out there like Colleen's mother-in-law, I'm afraid. I hope we can do more.

AFL-CIO mailer debunks Obama rumors

angie in KY — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 16:26:29 GMT

Living in Ky, I am astonished when I listen to people spout these very lies and smears. They often are ignorant of the truth and do not want to hear the truth or find it on their own. These are the people that have been hurt the most by the current administration yet, vote on little no knowledge of the issues. Our area holds a very religious, family values electorate. Unfortunately they have been "duped" by the current administration, naively believing it held the same values they did. The only ones to benefit from G. Bush and his adm. is big business. I may pay increased taxes under an obama administration due to being in a high income household, and will do so willingly if it will help the middle class and poorer people in my state. When I look at the policies of both campaigns the choice is clear.

OBAMA 08'

AFL-CIO mailer debunks Obama rumors

Leni,michigan — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 16:26:31 GMT

Reality Check: Spot on. The real question is how do we effectivly debunk the GOP lies and misinformation to help them make a more informed decision.

AFL-CIO mailer debunks Obama rumors

jdoe — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 16:26:58 GMT

You recite five points about the first mailing. Only one - that he was born in the US - matters (because it is a legal requirement). It is a very sad and also frightening commentary that the other points should even be considered. I don't give a rats ass about lapel pins, Christianity, the bible, or the pledge of allegiance. What is wrong with you people?

AFL-CIO mailer debunks Obama rumors

GA GUY — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 16:31:56 GMT

jp,michigan (Sent Tuesday, July 29, 2008 11:58 AM)

If everyone were truly paid according to what they added to any companies' growth, there would be no social problems to be remedied. Also there would be no need for higher taxes. No one wants America to become socialist, but there is a need to make sure folks are able to earn a decent wage for their work. Using the model Warren Buffet works by; we need to make sure our advantages are of a "durable" and sustainable nature...that includes taking a fair minded approach to labor in this country.

At the end of the day jp; it makes no difference whether you are rich or poor, if our national economy fails, we will all suffer. Burying our heads in the sand and screaming "socialism" will not bring about the changes necessary to make America's natural advantages DURABLE and SUSTAINABLE again!!

AFL-CIO mailer debunks Obama rumors

Amazed American — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 16:32:28 GMT

Paul Miller, travel a few hours outside your home in Woodbridge and go sit in a diner for a couple of hours. It's stunning and extremely sad the extent to which these cancerous lies have flooded the bloodstream of small town America. This is not something that's going to be addressed effectively through a simple mailer. In fact, I doubt there's anything at this point that can be done about it. After having just spent 3 days in a typical American small-town with well-meaning friends and family, I'm amazed at how deeply these rumors have been rooted in less than a year. It's truly stunning and incredibly sad.

AFL-CIO mailer debunks Obama rumors

Cindy Lou, TX — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 16:33:37 GMT

Thank goodness for the AFL-CIO. McCain and the Republicans will do anything to win the election, including lie and prey on uneducated voters' fears. How they sleep at night, I'll never know.

I hope Obama surrogates also get more aggressive about McCain's gaffes and memory lapses. I don't want a president who would potentially bomb the wrong border.