First thoughts: Britney-Paris day after

Chuck, NY — Thu, 31 Jul 2008 13:29:15 GMT

Sudden thoughts and second thoughts

I now realize why Tim Russert was so popular; he was only on once a week. If you missed Rep Barney Frank on Hardball yesterday, you missed a key point he brought up. We are oversaturated with news opinion shows on talk radio and 24/7 cable TV. Hour after hour, after hour, we hear the same discussions and dribble disguised as “news analysis”. If you are an Obama supporter like me, join me in the diatribes we will hear and view all day…Obama is risky/Obama is cocky/Obama doesn’t have experience/Obama can’t win the white vote/Obama cannot close the deal/blah, blah, blah. In fact, check back and you will hear the same things a week from now because Obama stories last at least a week and McCain stories last 2 days maximum.

Hurray for Obama yesterday calling out the GOP and McCain campaign tactics. I have said many times, they cannot defend so they only attack and try to scare the crap out of you. When was the last time you heard anything positive from a GOP candidate? If you did, it was amazing you heard it over all the attack politics they use.

Why is there such a fuss over Obama seeming to be the presumptive President? The reason this campaign season has lasted so long is because we are so desperate to get rid of W and Dick. January 20, 2009 can’t get here soon enough. We spend all our energy and resources right now in trying to get the successor immediately in office.

Am I now seeing the next trend of the election, people scream at old man who yells at clouds? McGrouchy has started a dissent he cannot overcome. I guess we have had enough and we are beginning to yell back at him. We yell at him not only for his tactics, gaffes and misrepresentations, but also for his grouchy demeanor.

Why is it so hard to campaign on the merits of an issue? Is it because the overall electorate is not capable of understanding the information? Is 30% of our country that misinformed to believe what the GOP brand offers? Am I skirting around saying the obvious; 30% of our country is dumb and another 15% is scared?

Has anyone, besides me, tried to envision what our daily lives will be like a year from now? Two years? And so on? If Obama wins, will the energy and enthusiasm last? If McGrouchy wins, will gloom and doom rule the day, along with one heck of a case of buyer’s remorse?

First thoughts: Britney-Paris day after

banko — Thu, 31 Jul 2008 13:31:10 GMT

Governor Kaine grew up in a blue collar household (father was a welder...worked with his father as a welder), and even taught welding to the underprivileged overseas (in Guatemala).
Like Obama, Kaine's grandparents are from Kansas. Tim Kaine was born in Minnesota, graduated from University of Missouri, and eventually graduated from Harvard law school. During law school, he took one year off to volunteer in Guatemala with a Catholic charity. That experience changed him profoundly...which he has written about here.
Tim Kaine met his wife Anne Holton ("soul mate") at Harvard law school. They have been happily married since and have three kids. His wife, Anne is the daughter of a former Republican Governor of Virginia who actually endorsed Democrat Tim Kaine when he ran for Governor in 2006. Kaine enjoys spending time with his family, and plays the harmonica/sings with bluegrass bands. (Anne Holton graduated from Princeton in the same class with Michelle Obama. Barack Obama, Michelle Obama, Anne Holton and Tim Kaine are all Harvard Law graduates.)
As an attorney, like Obama, Kaine practiced civil rights litigation for several years on behalf of minorities and the disabled. He then served on the city council of Richmond, then as mayor of Richmond, then as Lieutenant Governor of Virginia, and now as Governor of Virginia. (Virginia governors are only entitled to serve one, 4 year term.)
Kaine is very close friends with Obama, was the first Governor (outside of Illinois) to endorse Obama in February of 2007, and unlike, Biden or Clinton, has never said anything publicly that might be considered disparaging of Obama.
Governor Kaine would help Obama with GOTV in the Southern swing states (including helping to possibly win Virginia); help Obama with GOTV with blue collar voters in the Midwest and Pennsylvania; help Obama with GOTV with Catholic voters; help Obama with GOTV with hispanic voters in states like Nevada, Arizona and New Mexico...since Kaine speaks fluent Spanish, has lived in Guatemala for a year, and is a devout Catholic.
I believe Obama is going to choose his good friend, Governor Tim Kaine, to be his running mate.

Tim Kaine Texas Democratic Party Convention 2008
http://youtube.com/watch?v=tBZgzDeHOQo

About Governor Tim Kaine
http://www.governor.virginia.gov/AboutTheGovernor/biography.cfm

Finding My Mission in Life By Governor Timothy M. Kaine December, 2005
http://www.governor.virginia.gov/AboutTheGovernor/FromTheGovernorsDesk/mission.cfm

A message from Virginia Governor Tim Kaine
http://www.vaperforms.virginia.gov/

First thoughts: Britney-Paris day after

the Pajama Pundit — Thu, 31 Jul 2008 13:32:12 GMT

Indeed, what’s perhaps most interesting to us are all the Republicans and ex-McCain aides who have been openly critical of the campaign. In presidential contests, Republicans are normally unaccustomed to this kind of intra-party dissent and criticism.
********************************************************

I think that is because they all see the proverbial writing on the wall. McCain's campaign staff is ruining his reputation. It wasn't that long ago that both he and Cindy were making the rounds saying that we would never see a negative ad come from their campaign.

http://thepajamapundit.com/

First thoughts: Britney-Paris day after

Rob, Davenport, FL — Thu, 31 Jul 2008 13:34:33 GMT

I was watching Obama's new ad about McCain and "OLD" politics. The I was listening to some of Obama's talking heads and I think every 5th word they used was "OLD". Is it really a good stategy for Obama to make that getting "OLD" is a negative. I've been voting Democrate since Humphrey and nobody has every insulted an age group like Obama is.

First thoughts: Britney-Paris day after

BJ, CA — Thu, 31 Jul 2008 13:36:11 GMT

McCain is a laten homo sexual?....Paris and Britney are just like Barack...Is he Gay now?
That's a new Republican strategy...

First thoughts: Britney-Paris day after

Nashville_fan — Thu, 31 Jul 2008 13:36:42 GMT

"The danger here for McCain is that, by all accounts, he’s more sensitive to criticism by the media and fellow colleagues than your average Republican; as someone who’s been praised by the press more often than not, he cares what the New York Times has to say. "
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
I guess that explains why he was thrashing around like a jilted lover last week when the media was covering Senator Obama's trip.

One question - how to you square this phrase - "as someone who’s been praised by the press more often than not" with the narrative that you shoved down our throats all last week about the media being nicer to Obama than McCain? I'm confused.

First thoughts: Britney-Paris day after

Jeff D., Greensburg PA — Thu, 31 Jul 2008 13:37:15 GMT

And not a single mention of the Ludacris song. What a surprise that First Read would not do any reporting on that. Your batting average remains 1.000, First Read; all anti-McCain and pro-Obama. As an independent who's yet to decide for whom to cast my vote, I'm about to give up on this site for a balanced reporting of both candidates.

First thoughts: Britney-Paris day after

Pat, Boston, MA — Thu, 31 Jul 2008 13:38:19 GMT

"Today might be a day when John McCain ought to simply forget to read the news clippings, turn off the cable TV, and not browse The Google." Sent by Chuck, Mark & Demenico, Editors of First Read.
____________________
laugh out loud funny!!

First thoughts: Britney-Paris day after

Goui Hanseen, St. Paul, MN — Thu, 31 Jul 2008 13:38:44 GMT

Barack Obama is a victim. That's why I'm voting for him!

First thoughts: Britney-Paris day after

BJ, CA — Thu, 31 Jul 2008 13:39:35 GMT

I didn't know McCain was attracted to men now?

First thoughts: Britney-Paris day after

HARD TO DO!!! — Thu, 31 Jul 2008 13:40:16 GMT

Old Mr. McYUCK is an Incompetent fool.

He is making GWB look appealing and yes... smart!

Now that's HARD TO DO!!!

First thoughts: Britney-Paris day after

Norm MD — Thu, 31 Jul 2008 13:40:50 GMT

McCain = Bush = Rove = Gutter Politics = Lie and Attack.

First thoughts: Britney-Paris day after

camie — Thu, 31 Jul 2008 13:42:02 GMT

its true we always hear about what obama whenever mccain is speaking but mccain nevers tells us what he is for. many people dont know mccain and mccain isnt helping himself attacking obama

raw footage of the guys stealing Obama's prayer in israel
http://sensico.wordpress.com/2008/07/30/raw-footage-of-idiots-stealing-obama-prayer/
or
http://sensico2.blogspot.com/2008/07/my-blogs.html

First thoughts: Britney-Paris day after

Cindy Lou, TX — Thu, 31 Jul 2008 13:42:04 GMT

Sadly, McCain's negative ads (and the MSM's sudden drumbeat about Obama's so-called arrogance) may work with the low-information and non-college educated voters of WV and KY. Frankly, it's a shame that any voter would chose a president based on an ad. And it's a shame that an intelligent man, with an advanced degree and political and communications skills on the local, national and international fronts could be slammed as presumptuous, elitist and out-of-touch with Americans. To let the MSM tell the story, Americans want presidents who stutter, don't know very much and are hated throughout the world. What a sad statement on the United States of America.

As for polls, people are on vacation during the summer. Obama only has to win by one vote to become president, so I don't know what all the fretting is about.

First thoughts: Britney-Paris day after

Helen McDermont, Atlanta, GA — Thu, 31 Jul 2008 13:42:13 GMT

The St. Pete Times? You're quoting the St. Pete Times? Well you're perusing that paper, maybe you also want to give us the tide reports for the day? Maybe put out a fishing report?

First thoughts: Britney-Paris day after

Paul Miller, Woodbridge, VA — Thu, 31 Jul 2008 13:42:22 GMT

The McCain ad seems just as ridiculous on the second day. I'm heartened to see a couple Republicans even note how childish this ad strategy has become.

First thoughts: Britney-Paris day after

jus sayin — Thu, 31 Jul 2008 13:44:03 GMT

repub racist will never vote for jindal so he is out for vp.

First thoughts: Britney-Paris day after

Obama Voter — Thu, 31 Jul 2008 13:44:47 GMT

I am finding the coverage on MSNBC to be not anything news worthy. MSNBC seems to be in a mind set to look only for negative coverage of Obama and more than willing to let McCain get a way with one lie after another.

Why don't you guys have the same standard for McCain? These ads are really stupid - just like the candidate!

The only show I've been watching lately is Keith Olbermann - the rest of you are just ridiculous. I think that the reason Obama is held to a much higher standard is because he is African American.

When is that scumbag Joe Scarborough going to be fired - what a total egomaniac. He just loves to hear himself talk and talk and talk. I'm up early but can't stomach him! Fire Pat Buchanan's racist butt as well!

Great Political Stuff:

http://www.artwearactivist.com

First thoughts: Britney-Paris day after

Linda Evers-Young, Denver — Thu, 31 Jul 2008 13:45:00 GMT

Jeff D., Greensburg PA -- And not a single mention of the Ludacris song.

Jeff, Jeff, Jeff, this is all hush, hush, for now. Obama will be naming Ludacris as his new Poet Laureate at a press conference later today.

First thoughts: Britney-Paris day after

Clara Kansas City, MO — Thu, 31 Jul 2008 13:45:34 GMT

I get the sense this isn't the first time this headline has been used:
FIRST THOUGHTS: BRITNEY-PARIS DAY AFTER

My first thoughts are that ultimately for me, this election IS about judgment. Obama has it, McCain clearly does not. Is it true what I saw on Countdown last night that the McCain Camp actually said, "McCain doesn't speak for the McCain Camp" or something to that effect? WOW.

Anyone voting for McCain has serious issues that they don't want solved. The guy has completely abandoned any semblance of rational, sane thought or deed.

Even with the recent history of the past 71/2 years, and the Repub brand in the toilet, it's a 'close' race. I don't get my fellow Americans, and I probably never will.

First thoughts: Britney-Paris day after

trendline — Thu, 31 Jul 2008 13:46:06 GMT

While the new Quinnipiac polls show a decrease in the lead for Obama in FL, OH, PA. Obama is STILL in the lead and he doesn't have to win all three states, he just needs PA. Also if you look at the trend line since February, you see Obama did get a big post-primary bounce, so June's numbers are inflated but comparing July to every other month except June, you see Obama is doing GREAT : )

Month FL OH PA
Feb M+2 M+2 O+1
March M+9 O+1 O+4
April M+1 M+1 O+9
May M+4 M+4 O+6
June O+4 O+6 O+12
July O+2 O+2 O+7

First thoughts: Britney-Paris day after

Show-Me-State — Thu, 31 Jul 2008 13:46:33 GMT

Reality Check! Most, if not all the greatest Presidents in our history were capable of giving moving, inspirational speeches. I know John McCain's campaign thinks they are very clever and smart. Let's turn Baracks strength into a negative. The thing is when I see McCain's new spokesperson Nicole on TV; I am reminded of her working for George W Bush. She smiled and told us what a wonderful man he was and how he was doing such a great job. She smiled and berated John Kerry. See, John McCain is using the same people W. did and this leads me to believe he will do the same as President. He has brought in Karl Rove's understudies. He is not a Maverick. He is a repeat!

First thoughts: Britney-Paris day after

Paul Miller, Woodbridge, VA — Thu, 31 Jul 2008 13:46:55 GMT

FR - "A McCain source recently told me that the Arizona senator would only attack about something if he believes it."

You go on in your blog with the assumption the above statement is true.

However, McCain himself said a while back the American people are so hungry for a high-road campaign; one that offered a great debate of issues. And he added he would rather lose the election than give the American people anything less.

Yet what we've gotten the last few weeks is the obsession with Obama - he hates the troops, he's arrogant, he just doesn't understand things like I do, he's Dr. No, he's like Britney Spears, he'd rather lose a war than lose an election... blah, blah, blah.

If McCain is so willing to so quickly and so fully go back on his word, why in the world are you taking the word of one of his staffers?

First thoughts: Britney-Paris day after

Truthteller — Thu, 31 Jul 2008 13:47:06 GMT

hey chuck. Hmmm Lets see when polls show Mccain moving up they are skewed or imporper. According to your blatherings yesterday these polls dont really mean anything at this stage. Now that the ONE has gained in some states all of a sudden they are dead on. So waas up Chuckie.

First thoughts: Britney-Paris day after

Stansberg, Tn — Thu, 31 Jul 2008 13:47:35 GMT

Obama = Carter = Ludacris = Arrogent = Head Full of Mush

First thoughts: Britney-Paris day after

Nashville_fan — Thu, 31 Jul 2008 13:51:02 GMT

It should also be pointed out that embedded in what some may condemn as baseless negative advertising are serious questions for debate in this campaign about Obama's judgment and plans. It's ironic, however, that McCain -- whose political career has been defined by his biography -- has taken to playing on his opponent’s turf.
____________________________________________

John McCain only uses the parts of his "biography" that he likes, and leaves out all the messy parts - especially alot of his missteps in the military.

Senator Obama's judgement has turned out to be pretty darn good. John McCain, not so much.

Even John McCain's friends in the media are having a hard time propping him up, even though they are doing all they can by promoting the "arrogant" narrative and not reporting his flip flops on taxes and Iraq.

First thoughts: Britney-Paris day after

Ron Indiana — Thu, 31 Jul 2008 13:51:16 GMT

I'm an amateur political junkie...But I can see that there is something wrong with the picture if you being attacked for being too popular. Isn't being popular a good thing? Then you are being attacked for being too Presidential. A month ago Obama had to show he was Presidential enough. When I look at the two candidates one looks and act likeable and presidential and one does not. Being a negative, grumpy old man is not presidential. I am losing trust in the professional pundits to say the obvious, so it will be the polls (as unreliable as they are) and the voters to say what the respected journalist Walter Cronkite used to say, "That's the way it is."

First thoughts: Britney-Paris day after

John in Florida — Thu, 31 Jul 2008 13:51:57 GMT

Hey Jeff D, Greensburg...I was born there, I have plenty of family still around. As a Viet Navy vet, Catholic its the big "O" all the way this time. I was a Mc fan 8 years ago, but I guess that was just an empty shell of what he really was and is. This country needs a fresh start and Obama will surround himself with a great cabinet unlike Bush.

First thoughts: Britney-Paris day after

Rick, NC — Thu, 31 Jul 2008 13:52:31 GMT

Mccain has yet to articulate any reason to vote for him other than he isn't obama...but we don't need mccain to tell us what he stands for, there is a 25 year old voting record to pick on...

He is against everything that marches this nation out of the dark ages of the past 8 years and for more of the same...got it?

First thoughts: Britney-Paris day after

Dottie Swarthmore PA — Thu, 31 Jul 2008 13:55:12 GMT

Maybe Senator McCain will see that negative ads sometime do backfire. I think that is what we are seeing today with all the criticism coming from Republicans. Will Senator McCain listen or will he stubbornly continue on the negative path? We will just have to wait and see.

First thoughts: Britney-Paris day after

gmhussein, Jupiter, Fl — Thu, 31 Jul 2008 13:55:33 GMT

Rob, in Davenport Fl.

I too live in Fl and saw the ad, at no time did I get the message that the OLD pertained to age, it was all about OLD POLITICS. I am an over 60 white woman, I volunteer for Obama and find that many of the volunteers are in my age bracket. They bring such a sense of purpose and dedication that it is amazing and very rewarding to work with them......you should try it too, you will be well rewarded. We are tired of old politics, we want change and Barack Obama inspires and will bring about change with our help.

First thoughts: Britney-Paris day after

Bee, NH — Thu, 31 Jul 2008 13:56:42 GMT

Fellow bloggers, it seems McNasty is running scare right now. Mr happy warrior has become nasty and angry. The guy has totally lost his bearing.

First thoughts: Britney-Paris day after

Joe Don, Topeka, KS — Thu, 31 Jul 2008 13:56:59 GMT

Anybody who thinks the brain-dead output of a self-absorbed rapper like Ludacris is a legitimate issue should probably look for another site for political coverage. I'd suggest stupidvoter.com

First thoughts: Britney-Paris day after

Dress For Success — Thu, 31 Jul 2008 13:57:02 GMT

Britney looks better in a tight dress, but Barack is no slouch either.

First thoughts: Britney-Paris day after

Bob, Chicago — Thu, 31 Jul 2008 13:57:38 GMT

Please change the the name Race for the White House to David Gregory's Ego Talking Show. Last nite he went on and on....it took 24 mins before the third panel member even had a chance to speak. I think people tune in to hear the panel debate not the world by David Gregory. Tim's absence is becoming more and more evident.

Bob, Chicago

First thoughts: Britney-Paris day after

MI Chick — Thu, 31 Jul 2008 13:58:20 GMT

"How about this news guys? Instead of following George Ayles entertainment style news presentation to boost your ratings,and compete with Fox, just give us the facts.

Marie McDermott Lakeside, AZ (Sent Thursday, July 31, 2008 9:30 AM)"

Marie - are you thinking of Roger Ailes at Fox? He's the one who was a former Bush 41 crony who runs the "news" division at Fixed Noise.

Hey, FR - how about introducing us to Mark Whittaker? I just read in our local paper that he was picked to take over Tim's "off-air" duties - how 'bout throwing your loyal readers a bone and do an intro?

First thoughts: Britney-Paris day after

James C., Arizona — Thu, 31 Jul 2008 13:58:37 GMT

Obama = Carter = Ludacris = Arrogent = Head Full of Mush
Stansberg, Tn
-------------------------------------------
I'll try
McCain = Bush = Rove = Stupid = Head Full of Air

First thoughts: Britney-Paris day after

H. Hoggens, Medford, OR — Thu, 31 Jul 2008 13:58:46 GMT

Ron Indiana:

I'm an amateur political junkie...

+++++++++++++++

Then you need to leave. This is a professionals only blog.

First thoughts: Britney-Paris day after

Banko — Thu, 31 Jul 2008 13:59:34 GMT

John McCain is a fraud. McCain is one of the most corrupt politicians in American. MSM don't want to examine McCain's records.
"if they bring a knife to the battle, we'd bring a gun"-obama

McCain and the Keating Five
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Keating_Five

The Keating Five
http://www.wmsa.net/People/john_mccain/ariz-republic_chap_V_1999.htm

Big Oil Fuels John McCain's Straight Talk Express
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZQ4eeQzDlgM&eurl

First thoughts: Britney-Paris day after

Colleen, Ithaca, NY — Thu, 31 Jul 2008 13:59:34 GMT

Really? Bobby from the Brady Bunch? Really? Oh, please, God, please let McCain choose Jindal - it would just be so much fun!!!

At least Obama's not ashamed of his 'exotic' non-western name...

First thoughts: Britney-Paris day after

Negative campaigns are lying campaigns and liars are bad for America — Thu, 31 Jul 2008 14:00:38 GMT

Factcheck.org has mccain's campaign ads rated at 70% false. Mccain is spending the majority of his time telling lies about Senator Obama.
Don't we already have a president that got into office by telling lies on his opponent(Kerry) and now his approval rating is in the 20's? I sure don't want another one. Mccain even has the help of a an entire news network spewing lies he doesn't have to pay for himself.
We need to put Keith Olberman on prime time, I never miss him.
I wish we had more decent, smart journalists like Keith that try to protect America instead of the self-serving, money-hungry type I have to weed through everyday.
Mccain is wrong in his attempts to smear Senator Obama, and mccain's accomplices (journalists)are equally as guilty of participating in his vile on-slaught of destructive lies.

America loses when we have a media supporting an obvious negative campaign.

First thoughts: Britney-Paris day after

Pat, Boston, MA — Thu, 31 Jul 2008 14:01:09 GMT

He is against everything that marches this nation out of the dark ages of the past 8 years and for more of the same...got it?: Rick, NC (Sent Thursday, July 31, 2008 9:52 AM)
_____________
If McCain is so willing to so quickly and so fully go back on his word, why in the world are you taking the word of one of his staffers? Paul Miller, Woodbridge, VA (Sent Thursday, July 31, 2008 9:46 AM)
_____________
Senator Obama's judgement has turned out to be pretty darn good. John McCain, not so much. Nashville_fan (Sent Thursday, July 31, 2008 9:51 AM)
_____________
McGrouchy has started a dissent he cannot overcome.Chuck, NY (Sent Thursday, July 31, 2008 9:29 AM)
_____________

Senator John McCain does not speak for the McCain Campaign. Karl Rove and Sean Hannity do.

First thoughts: Britney-Paris day after

Dottie Swarthmore PA — Thu, 31 Jul 2008 14:01:35 GMT

First thoughts: Britney-Paris day after

Cross in Margate, FL — Thu, 31 Jul 2008 14:02:17 GMT

Ok. For all you people that can't wait to bring up the Ludacris jam, be careful, your white supremacist thoughts are just waiting to ooze out your pores. You wont acknowledge when McCain does all this crazy stuff, but you're gonna jump on the band wagon cause Ludacris (who has every right to say whatever he wants without having to ask you for your opinion), decides he wants to express himself (misguided as it may be) by being critical of things going around in this country. If you're going throw that stone, pray that during judgement day, as you stand before the great white throne, the Lord you God doesnt suddenly throw Mt. Everest at you, for your intolerant views, and the quick way you are ready to judge others. If you call yourself a christian, you are now fitting the mold of those who Jesus said: " Why do you call me Lord, Lord and dont do what I say?" Luke 6:26.

Obama '08

Obama '08

First thoughts: Britney-Paris day after

Juan,Ft lauderdale, fl — Thu, 31 Jul 2008 14:03:40 GMT

McCain camp is so desparate they are resorting to negative ala 2004 that even Gop operatives are shaking their heads. How pathetic and low can they get? Win at all cost eventhough;thankfully; I hope the voters are too angry to be influenced by amateurish/lame ads.

First thoughts: Britney-Paris day after

Pat, Boston, MA — Thu, 31 Jul 2008 14:04:02 GMT

Britney looks better in a tight dress, but Barack is no slouch either. Dress For Success (Sent Thursday, July 31, 2008 9:57 AM)
______________
Hey, maybe there is something to John McCain being a little behind the times. Whenever I go into a store, it is Angelina Jolie's picture I see everywhere.

Why not select her?

First thoughts: Britney-Paris day after

Dennis — Thu, 31 Jul 2008 14:04:19 GMT

Anybody who thinks the brain-dead output of a self-absorbed rapper like Ludacris is a legitimate issue should probably look for another site for political coverage. I'd suggest stupidvoter.com
-----------------------------------------------
I disagree-this is someone Obama has claimed is a great talent, claims he's one of his favorites, has headlined a fundraiser for him and someone who Obama's met with to get help get out the black vote. Why are all of Obama's associations off limits?

First thoughts: Britney-Paris day after

Keith, PA — Thu, 31 Jul 2008 14:04:39 GMT

McCain is running a Karl Rove style campaign... old politics, OLD, OLD, OLD. It's amazing that after so many years in Washington, he hasn't accomplished anything that he can put forward as a positive reason to vote for him.

First thoughts: Britney-Paris day after

A. Reed, Harlem, NY — Thu, 31 Jul 2008 14:05:31 GMT

I really wish that MSNBC would get off the Faux News talking points. Can we really stop talking about this mess? As an African-American, words like "arrogant," "not knowing his place," and others like that are really code words for subtle prejudice. I can't stand it. Maybe I'll start watching Faux News... at least they wear their hatred on their sleeves.

First thoughts: Britney-Paris day after

Pete - Albany, NY — Thu, 31 Jul 2008 14:05:33 GMT

"You need to ask John McCain what he’s for and not just what he’s against."

Senator Obama has carefully chosen his words here to paint a picture of what is wrong with Senator McCain's candidacy.

In 2004, I supported and voted for Senator Kerry. One of my friends who supported and voted for Dubya pointed out that the problem was that Kerry was running as the anti-Bush candidate. He wasn't standing FOR something. Rather, he was standing AGAINST something.

Fast forward to 2008 and right now you have Senator McCain running as "Not Obama". All the McCain campaign can do right now, when not making its own gaffes, is talk about Senator Obama and why you shouldn't vote for him.

What do you stand for, John McCain?

First thoughts: Britney-Paris day after

Patrick — Thu, 31 Jul 2008 14:07:45 GMT

What? Nothing today about McCain's $520 imported Italian loafers? His shoes cost more than my entire wardrobe.