McCain vs. Obama: The race race

Casey Cleese, Franklin, PA — Fri, 01 Aug 2008 13:28:33 GMT

<<By the way, this is fascinating and should fire up Obama folks in the blogosphere>>

Probably won't hear much from them today. It's the start of the weekend for them, and they like to start their drinking early.

McCain vs. Obama: The race race

the Pajama Pundit — Fri, 01 Aug 2008 13:29:08 GMT

Can't we all just get along?

Can't we?

I guess not.

http://thepajamapundit.com/

McCain vs. Obama: The race race

Pat Huntington NY — Fri, 01 Aug 2008 13:30:23 GMT

Talk about doing anything to win an election! McCain's hopes in 2000 were dashed by Bush's Karl Rove and his minions. Now, McCain has hired those same minions to undue Obama with this nonsense about race, and the pathetic Britney and Paris ad. Now that's what I call sleeping with the enemy!

McCain, the ultimate panderer and flip flop artist...will do anything to get elected.

McCain vs. Obama: The race race

Janet, Texas — Fri, 01 Aug 2008 13:31:54 GMT

I have just one thought here. When I heard the comments, I simply thought, yes, Obama wouldn't look like any of the other presidents. I did not immediately jump to conclusions. And keep in mind, there's a difference between what simply is, and what one wants to read into. Obama is part African American, you can't get away from that, so it makes sense that he wouldn't look like any of the other presidents. That's a fact ! Now, granted, McCain needs something to fire up his campaign, so why not accuse him of using the race card. And Wolfson, common', he's not that impressive, not surprising he would seem to be agreeing about the inuendo of race coming from Obama. It's all political, but when you put your own differences and biases aside, and see things for what they really are, only then, can we start to heal and come together.

McCain vs. Obama: The race race

Nashville_fan — Fri, 01 Aug 2008 13:34:49 GMT

Why is it that Senator Obama is held responsible for anything anyone he has ever known does or says, and he is expected to "reject and denounce" things, but John McCain's associates are free to say whatever they want and John McCain is allowed to say that HE is not repsonsible?

There are ENTIRE NEWS ORGANIZATIONS smearing Barack Obama 24 Hours a day, seven Days a week - has John McCain rejected and denounced any of them? Has the media asked him to?

John McCain said he had nothing to do with the Swift Boat attacks, but this year he trots out one of the Swift Boaters who he is FRIENDS WITH to attack Barack Obama - why is that okay?

Why is John McCain allowed to pretend he is innocent when he is the one calling the shots? Why is he not held responsible for the actions of his associates in the same way that Barack Obama is?

P.S. Remember Phil Gramm? He works for Senator McCain to this day. But he doesn't speak for John McCain, even though they have been friends for 20 years, are in the same political party, and he authored most of John McCain's economic policies.

P.S.S. Sean Hannity and all the other right wing talk show host tell outright LIES over the air everyday, but I haven't heard John McCain "distance" himself from any of them - so he can reap the benefits and then play innocent and claim somebody is playing the race card against HIM?

Whatever.

McCain vs. Obama: The race race

JessicaElaine — Fri, 01 Aug 2008 13:37:29 GMT

Necessary read
http://www.dailykos.com/storyonly/2008/8/1/84054/82545/480/559881

Note the face in the money....

McCain vs. Obama: The race race

Amy B Portland, ME — Fri, 01 Aug 2008 13:38:07 GMT

McCain seems determined to lose his presidencial bid in the most justifiable manner possible. Is he a self hating right winger, or what? Very strange. Very strange. I'm voting for the unstrange, straight up, positive guy. Obama.

McCain vs. Obama: The race race

Ron Jordon, NYC — Fri, 01 Aug 2008 13:38:44 GMT

FR: The New York Times seems to put the onus of raising the race issue on Rick Davis.

The NYSlimes didn't put much onus on Obama with Ludacris. Buried his hateful song/rap/hate_sprewing, what ever you want to call it, on page 18. Even used the headline 'Ludacris priases Obama'. That's the Slimes cleaning that mess up nicely for Obama.

McCain vs. Obama: The race race

iowan — Fri, 01 Aug 2008 13:38:48 GMT

This use of 'race' by McCain is beneath the despicable. Obama fends off, usually with light humor, when outlandish attempts are made to lampoon him. It's not much different than the 'picking on' Kerry for being 'French' (or whatever) and Gore for being 'wooden', etc---making them seem 'different', 'not one of us', etc. Well, say what you will, whether it's race or 'coolness', that's what this yipping bunch of prevaricators are going for this year with Mr. Obama.

Let's look at their two BS modes of attack this week: Attacking the man's confident manner as being "arrogant". On the one hand, you can argue he's filling a leadership void (moral and policy-wise) left by the morally bankrupt Bush regime (see, e.g., Frank Rich in Sunday's NYT); on the other, you can say these folks are not at all subtly suggesting that this is "uppity", a word which is an adjective for only one noun, which can't, out of oh so much sensitivity, be used here. But bite on this you little reporters do.

The second attack then is the "celebrity" argument. As my ten year old says, 'Pish, posh.' One of these white girls is known for creating a soft core porn video for herself; the other, most recently, for her glabrous pudenda, although she notably was fodder for Bob "Viagra Boy" Dole's "down boy" Pepsi commercial--when she was 17 or so---yuck. So, just so happens the only two 'celebrities' the Republican Wide Stancers wish to link Obama to are a couple of white pseudo-porn girls. Hmm. Nuthin' racist about that one, Elmer. But chomp, chomp, chomp go the media maggots, with their false disdain of such trollopism, all the while yakking about that while Rome burns. Uncool.

Programming note: Why is David "Hair Boy" Gregory such a rude host? Sometimes I watch snippets of his show on the 'net---is he supposed to be moderating or stirring up a discussion? Reporting news? Analyzing politics? An entertainment guru? Give the boy a clue or give the hour to someone who knows how to use it. Most of his guests have a lot to offer, but this nimrod can't seem to avoid walking on them. Give Schuster some time---at least he can laugh at himself.

McCain vs. Obama: The race race

Biased — Fri, 01 Aug 2008 13:39:31 GMT

Wow Called Obama on his covert use of the race card.
guess someone was paying attention the Dem primary. It’s a shame the way that the Obama people tar and fathered Bill Clinton, worse then anything i heard out of the "Vast right wing conspiracy"

McCain vs. Obama: The race race

Bruce St. Helens OR — Fri, 01 Aug 2008 13:40:06 GMT

Anyone with half a brain and a modest sense of American political history understands that race is always an issue when an African American (even half an African American) runs against a WASP. As a sidebar, it will be interesting to watch how Sen. McCain's support for an Arizona ballot measure that emasculates affirmtive action in that state will play out.

McCain vs. Obama: The race race

idtt, laurel md — Fri, 01 Aug 2008 13:40:15 GMT

Of course Sen McCain wouldn't make race an issue or try to scare voters, he'll just remind people that Sen Obama is "the candidate of Hamas". Or what about the time they played the age card when everyone pointed out Sen McCain had lost his bearings. No the Maverick wouldn't do anything of that, but this Desperado who's running for president evidently will.

McCain vs. Obama: The race race

New Indi — Fri, 01 Aug 2008 13:40:23 GMT

Wise up!!! Are you trying to put McCain in the White House?

When Obama talks about not looking like the guys on the paper money he is speaking in code and anyone that is not willing to accept such a patent fact is not credible to many White Democrats. It makes us wonder about Obama and the tactics he is willing to use to become the POTUS.

This BS explanation about how Obama was drawing a comparison beytween himself and the "dead Presidents" who were all Washington insiders is so Fing lame it is insulting....and reminds all Clinton supporters of how Obama's surrogates employed the exact same tactic to smear both the Clintons. George Washington, Abe Lincoln, Alexander Hamilton....Washington insiders....how totally insane! And this guy is going to be our next President.

McCain vs. Obama: The race race

hjp, sf, ca — Fri, 01 Aug 2008 13:40:55 GMT

There is no greater bunch of bs'ers in the world than Steve Schmidt and the McCain campaign.
Journalists, are your sirens going off?
Don't you feel manipulated?

McCain vs. Obama: The race race

BJ, CA — Fri, 01 Aug 2008 13:43:07 GMT

Obama did not want to travel with you dumb a$$..
He's running against you.....
There's nothing to be experienced here but contests show the true test of your metal...
So far John your metal is made with upseedasium...
floating thru space with Rocky and Bullwinkle...

McCain vs. Obama: The race race

B, New Jersey — Fri, 01 Aug 2008 13:43:10 GMT

The McCain campaign is trying to make it seem like they are different than the RNC and the ubiquitous term "Republican". No they are not different. When we talk about campaign cash, we invariably add on " the RNC and the McCain campagin have x-dollars" to campaign this fall. So why should we differentiate now. Point blank, the Party from top to bottom will use a set of tactics designed at making Obama appear to be not really American enough to be President-whether it be, Muslim, not wearing a flag pin, Michelle is not proud of America, or whatever. McCain/Republicans are injecting race.

The Obama campaign/Democrats are too though. I will say I do prefer the Democratic injection though and feel it is a little healthier to admonish that profile-based tactics will be used than to deny that these tactics are in use (when you are using them) and acuse others.

Apart from that, what is with the reporting on the McCain camp's tone? It's like reporters are pushing the line that JM gave Barack a "dressing down", like he, in coloquial terms, "sonned" Barack--they made it clear they wont accept this from the Obama campaign, they will not tolerate it. Again with the Barack better know his place story line.

McCain vs. Obama: The race race

Clara Kansas City, MO — Fri, 01 Aug 2008 13:43:57 GMT

My husband believes McCain is dumping his primary cash and trying to find the "hot button" topics that get a response,...so he can target his public money in the fall.

With all the help he's getting from MSM on airplay, etc. Who will know what worked and what didn't?

It is more than ironic that the pundit shows are playing the ads more than the actual ad buy. Ahh love that pop culture media. Where would we be without them?

That's right, better informed because we'd go look for our own truth instead of having them spoon feed it to us. I'm talking to you, Low Information Voters!

McCain vs. Obama: The race race

Elizabeth R., Oilville VA — Fri, 01 Aug 2008 13:44:45 GMT

Sorry, fellow Obama supporters, but I think Obama brought this one on himself. We have a young candidate with not a lot of experience and (let's admit it), some questionable associations. We have to expect those things to be questioned. For him to attempt to explain those away as having anything to do with race is wrong and I think makes him look weak. Let's be honest-has anyone ever heard McCain make a race-based jab at Obama? Rev. Wright is a legitimate issue for people questioning Obama's judgment-I fail to see where that is racist.
I've seen how most of you attack people who don't agree with you, but remember I support the same candidate you do. If race is going to be kept out of this campaign, that needs to apply to both candidates.

McCain vs. Obama: The race race

Bud, Hometown, USA — Fri, 01 Aug 2008 13:45:07 GMT

McSame started this race war and it's going to be his downfall.

McCain vs. Obama: The race race

jeff D Evanston IL. — Fri, 01 Aug 2008 13:45:11 GMT

Howard Wolfson need to shut the hell up!!! bill started that whole thing during the primary and because bill was a surrigate for hillary is stuck to her campiagn!!! sorry but that is the truth, with all the attacks from mccain, they have been smart not to give direct statement reguarding race, also the fact that mccain voted against the MLK holiday, and his state was the last to reconize the holiday, to tell you the turth, it was the NFL that took the superbowl away that made then pass the law!!! they did not do that because they changed there minded, its was about the money!!!!!!!!!!!!!
so Howard, i guess you are waiting for obama to help hillary pay her campaign Debt !!! so you can get you money!!! after that just go away!! your trash!!!!!!

McCain vs. Obama: The race race

Clara Kansas City, MO — Fri, 01 Aug 2008 13:46:25 GMT

Casey, I don't start my bloody mary's until at least noon (east coast time).

seriously? we're all crazy drunks? Wow, as Obama would say, "Is that the best you can do?"

McCain vs. Obama: The race race

d from IL 4 Obama — Fri, 01 Aug 2008 13:50:33 GMT

AMEN!!!! Nashville_fan

McCain vs. Obama: The race race

BJ, CA — Fri, 01 Aug 2008 13:51:35 GMT

It's not that it is an issue...it always has been because of voters wants...

It's more of who's making it a BIG deal...
calling it wrong and whining about it...
Are you sorry John?

McCain vs. Obama: The race race

Lisa, New Orleans, LA — Fri, 01 Aug 2008 13:53:14 GMT

Can someone please give me a break? In this past 24 hr news cycle, we have allowed ourselves to be distracted by the McCain campaign by something that is purely nonsensical. In the meantime, our economy continues to go to crap while Exxon is disappointed because a record $11.68 billion dollar profit was somehow not high enough for them. Let’s just put some things on the table. While the punditry disserves us by acting as if they do not know what Senator Obama meant in his speech yesterday when he said “what they’re going to try to do is make you scared of me,” and that he “doesn’t look like all those other presidents on the dollar bills” those of us who are capable of thinking for ourselves know that he was not referring assaults being levied directly by the McCain campaign. Anyone with a modicum of intelligence knows that he was referring to the general republican campaign against him. The “swift-boaters” and any other fringe groups who circulate the lies of his not having been born in America, his not being a Christian, that he’s secretly a terrorist, etc. Otherwise, the New Yorker would never have run their “satirical” cover that attempted to highlight these issues. Senator McCain, meanwhile, is willing to win at all costs (including tarnishing his well liked “maverick” brand) and therefore will sit back while the Rove attack dogs go on the prowl. In regard to the “I don’t look like the other presidents on the dollar bills” statement, please do not be deceived into believing that this is purely a racial issue. If we are going to twist meanings, how about this for a twist? The McCain campaign has been attacking Senator Obama because of his age by complaining of his arrogance. In other words, how could some young guy possibly have the audacity to want to be President? He doesn’t deserve it. We have seen the reports that say that Senator Obama does not look like a commander-in- chief. I believe this is what he may have been alluding to with this statement. Folks, please. Can we just get back to the issues? You know-like the economy.

McCain vs. Obama: The race race

norma,arlington,tx — Fri, 01 Aug 2008 13:54:59 GMT

G M loss 15 million, Big Oil gain 12 billion. mccain is for keeping bush tax cuts. high gas prices, high food cost, college funds shot. Enough said. Mccain=Bush

McCain vs. Obama: The race race

Obama: CHANGE you can rely on DAILY — Fri, 01 Aug 2008 13:56:11 GMT

Privately, campaign aides said Obama's comments alluded to falsehoods widely spread on the Internet and to racial comments that have plagued his campaign from the outset.”
-------------
If that's what he "meant" then why did he say (paraphrasing): Bush and McCain are going to try to make you afraid of me. THEY are going to say I'm unpatriotic, I have a funny middle name and that I don't look like those other Presidents on the dollar bill." On Jun 20, he said something similar but was very overt in saying "and, did I mention he's black?" So, who's introducing race into the CAMPAIGN? McCain hasn't said it. McCain can't be held responsible for what some of the American public might think.

I agree with statements in this article that there is a double standard. It's okay for Obama to mention his color and say "they" are racists but it's wrong for McCain to call him out on it when Obama mentions McCain specifically. If anybody can show when McCain made any of the statements Obama attributed to him, then it's okay. But, it didn't happen. Look at Bill Clinton's statement of fact: Jesse Jackson won SC twice but lost the nomination. What was racial in that? Because somebody's black you're not allowed to even make a statement of fact about them? It is an ugly double standard and it's hypocritical and dishonest of Obama to say this about McCain. Heard Clarie McCaskill on MSNBC say that Obama was talking about Republicans in general. So McCain is responsible for "republicans in general"? Then, you and others won't mind when folks try to hold Obama responsible for Ludacris, Wright, Ayers, Pfleger and their actions, right? You just can't have it both ways, Obama.

McCain vs. Obama: The race race

Cindy Lou, TX — Fri, 01 Aug 2008 14:01:26 GMT

The race card was played by Republicans a long time ago, or does McCain not remember FOX news anchors calling a fist bump a "terrorist jab" or labeling Michelle as "Obama baby mama." McCain has yet to reject and denounce those statements. Frankly, Obama didn't mention race yesterday at all, but he did point out that McCain was painting him as "other."

I guess the truth hurt McCain. And shame on the MSM for carrying this story as though McCain's charges had validity. It seems that every since Obama's triumphant overseas tour, McCain and the MSM are doing their darndest to destroy Obama's character.

McCain vs. Obama: The race race

Obama: CHANGE you can rely on DAILY — Fri, 01 Aug 2008 14:01:35 GMT

The McCain campaign has been attacking Senator Obama because of his age by complaining of his arrogance. In other words, how could some young guy possibly have the audacity to want to be President?
----------
Lisa in New Orleans: please enlighten us on when McCain has made comments about a this "young guy" and his "audacity". McCain is questioning his lack of experience. Never have heard call Obama "audacious". So, if you can't back that up, you shouldn't be printing it here. It's just like Obama attributions of negative talk to McCain when McCain never said those things. Seems like people are confusing what the candidates actually say and what the pundits say!

McCain vs. Obama: The race race

Elitist — Fri, 01 Aug 2008 14:01:37 GMT

I just heard that another 51,000 Americans have lost there jobs, Millions of Americans do not have health care, an obsolete energy plan, and many other important issues not talked about by McCain. It is as if McCain has realized that he cannot compare with Obama on the issues, so his only hope of winning is to start trying to define Obama as an Elitist, Risky, Unpatiotic, frivolous and dangerous. McCain vowed he would run a clean & honorable campaign and make the distinction between himself and Obama on the issues. In the last couple of weeks the ads and statements out of McCain's camp has been distorted,twisted, dishonest, outright lies & unethical. The MSM has also some blame to share for reporting untruths without a disclaimer i.e., "We cannot vouch for the truthfullness of this Ad". I was really hoping that the debates would be interesting and that the battle would be about issues, I know that won't happen now. How could Obama have a battle of wits with McCain, when McCain is acting like a senile idiot!

Obama 08

McCain vs. Obama: The race race

Michael J Brooklyn NY — Fri, 01 Aug 2008 14:03:35 GMT

It's the same game plan (old politics) that have been around since 1968. Ask Pat about it. He knows better than anyone how this game works. If you can't dazzle 'em with brilliance, baffle them with bullshit.

I know that the folks on Morning Joe are smarter than that. Sure, it's "good politics". but by now we have seen how "good politics" leads to terrible, dumb governance and decisions.

Chuck has it almost right when he says, "When the day's discussion is about race. Obama loses." From my POV when the day's "discussion" is about race, citizens lose.

Isn't there a role for "journalists" and "pundits" to not be taken in by the manipulation of the campaigns? The promo for MSNBC talks about the importance of this election. Nice words, but it's undercut when you get taken in by spin and bullshit.

Take a leaf from Stewart. (His ratings are pretty good.) When it's distracting bullshit, don't get distracted! Comment? No doubt. Laugh, why not? It's what it deserves.

But 6 to 9 all about a dumb ad? C'mon folks, we need you to be much better than that.

McCain vs. Obama: The race race

Patty — Fri, 01 Aug 2008 14:04:02 GMT

Chuck,

On Joe this morning, he spent 3 hours asking who "they" are. Obama needs better spokespeople. I will tell you who "they" are:

They are the people who send out the anonymous emails falsely smearing Obama for being muslim, black separatist etc..etc...
If Joe wants to know who they are, all he has to do is go to snopes.com and type in Barack Obama and see what has already been said about him.
If Joe wants to know who "they" are all he has to do is listen to Sean Hannity or Michael Savage (or most other talk show hosts) for 5 minutes and he'll know.
If Joe wants to know who "they" are all he has to do is go over to free republic, or redstate, or the corner and look at the articles and the comments.

If he wants to know who they are just watch Fox news for a day or so.

Barack Obama is exactly right. "They" are trying to scare people from voting for him by pushing false accusations and smears to make him look like he's "not one of us".

Tell Joe to look at the story CNN did this morning from Missouri, where person after person including the mayor was absolutely sure that Obama is a muslim, and the reporter, instead of informing them that he is not, said " but he says he's not" leaving open the possibility that he may not be telling the truth. Guess what? sosme of those people think he's not telling the truth. I wonder why?

John McCain himself has been going around saying its "risky" to vote for Obama, not because of race, but inexperience. That in iself is a scare tactic. It's the old "The Democrats don't want to keep you safe" as if Democrats don't have families that they care about too. He has falsely accused Obama of not caring about the troops, and of wanting to lose a war to win an election. How scary would it be to have a president who wants to lose a war?

It's not all about race, but if it serves their purposes, "they" will not hesitate to use it.

McCain vs. Obama: The race race

Nashville_fan — Fri, 01 Aug 2008 14:04:27 GMT

Elizabeth R., Oilville VA

"Let's be honest-has anyone ever heard McCain make a race-based jab at Obama? Rev. Wright is a legitimate issue for people questioning Obama's judgment-I fail to see where that is racist."
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
Elizabeth,

The problem is you don't see a problem with holding Senator Obama resposible for something SOMEONE else said, but you feel that John McCain should only be responsible for things that come out of his own mouth. How is that NOT a double standard?

The "race" part is really irrelevant - the point is the CLOSE ASSOCIATES of Senator McCain HAVE brought up the race issue (among other things), and John McCain HAS benefitted, and John McCain HASN'T distanced himself. Why is he held to a different standard than Senator Obama?

In terms of Obama's comment about looking different than the money, check out this McCain ad that puts OBAMA'S FACE ON MONEY and then ask yourself who started this?

http://www.dailykos.com/storyonly/2008/8/1/84054/82545/480/559881

McCain vs. Obama: The race race

Germanicus — Fri, 01 Aug 2008 14:04:55 GMT

"If that's what he "meant" then why did he say (paraphrasing): Bush and McCain are going to try to make you afraid of me. THEY are going to say I'm unpatriotic, I have a funny middle name and that I don't look like those other Presidents on the dollar bill."

Because of this John McCain ad:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zPARec32KMI

McCain vs. Obama: The race race

Diane from Illinois — Fri, 01 Aug 2008 14:04:56 GMT

Ask yourself this........Obama ALREADY has 95% of the black vote. WHY would HE be the one playing the race card.......to get the other 5%? Don't you think that's a little silly? This is the GOP's (KARL ROVE) way of trying the scare white voters into voting for McCain, and THAT, people, IS racist. The GOP is full of hateful OLD white men. That is why they can't get excited about their geriatric candidate this year. He's going up against someone who is younger, smarter and more charismatic than their old goat. We need to speak up loud and clear in November and the message should be...NOT THIS TIME!

McCain vs. Obama: The race race

Jean, Asheville, NC — Fri, 01 Aug 2008 14:04:56 GMT

Let me understand this: Using two white, blonde women in an ad with Obama - not racist. But saying I don't look like all the other Presidents - is racist. Am I crazy?? Also why did it take McCains camp over a month to think what Obama said was racist? He said it the first time in June. More importantly - why didn't Joe and others hit that point home on his show this morning? This is what the Dems should be saying over and over again. "Why did it take a month for the Republicans to say Obama was using the race card?"

McCain vs. Obama: The race race

SusaninIN — Fri, 01 Aug 2008 14:05:21 GMT

The McCain camp played the race card by claiming Obama presumptuous and uppity. They've been trying to put the black man in his place from the beginning. And having that same black man bring in over 200,000 people to hear him speak was just too much for McCain. How dare Obama be popular! Pat Buchanan said it himself earlier in the week, 'Is Obama one of us?' That is the McCain camps views at the moment and that is how they are trying to scare us. I for one am tired of this devisiveness. At this point I want anyone but McCain. I even donated another $100 to Obama last night in support. I vow to donate whatever I can afford everytime the McCain camp comes out with another negative ad or comment. This could get expensive!

McCain vs. Obama: The race race

Jay Jay - Informed Voter — Fri, 01 Aug 2008 14:05:40 GMT

BREAKING NEWS!!! BREAKING NEWS!!! BREAKING NEWS!!!

As result of the recent finding made by NASA that one of Saturn's moon contains more oil reserve than we have on earth (http://www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/cassini/media/cassini-20080213.html), John McDrillAnywhere has launched an extensive SPACE OIL DRILLING POLICY code named McXington project after his twin sister Lexington Project.

John McCain, A name synonymous to drilling low information voters

McCain vs. Obama: The race race

Adam, St. Louis — Fri, 01 Aug 2008 14:07:00 GMT

My vote is for Obama, but why do we call people African American's when 90% of them have never even seen Africa? My ancestors can be traced back to Greece. So in this thought process, am I an Greek American because of it? If so, I am a minority and should have gotten some grants and whatnot for schooling. He is black people, NOT African American. People who were BORN in Africa and came to this country are African American! I hate the titles we put on poeple! He is an American plain and simple!

McCain vs. Obama: The race race

Republican Fever — Fri, 01 Aug 2008 14:08:22 GMT

Wow, as Obama would say, "Is that the best you can do?"

Clara Kansas City, MO (Sent Friday, August 01, 2008 9:46 AM)

Odd, that's the same question a lot of people are asking about the Democrats. Is Obama the best you can do?

McCain vs. Obama: The race race

Obama Lama — Fri, 01 Aug 2008 14:09:01 GMT

It is so interesting that people saw Brittany and Paris being in that ad as racist. OMG...two WHITE girls. What if they had used two black girls or males? Then, it would have been called racist, too. If Obama can't be seen with white people, how's he going to lead a nation that includes white people????

McCain vs. Obama: The race race

Matt, Idaho — Fri, 01 Aug 2008 14:09:40 GMT

*******************************
First Read, please report this!
*******************************

Mccain Camp released a campaign ad over a month ago with Obama's face on the dollar bill as a scare tactic. This is the context of Obama's comments!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zPARec32KMI

The Daily Kos has also done a thorough blog on this.

*******************************
First Read, please report this!
*******************************

McCain vs. Obama: The race race

bgeorge las vegas, nv. — Fri, 01 Aug 2008 14:10:38 GMT

there is no room for race in this election, we should all be paying attention to what a person is offering to do for us to make things better in the u.s. and make it so we have some respect around the world again and that is not mr. obama, he aint done nothin, aint said nothin and is not a leader or ready to take on the vast obligation of the president of the u.s., he has a good speech and i for one wish i could believe him but i cannot and there are many others just like me. I do not believe he is ahead in the polls and i give him no sympathy for the race issue, it is his experience level and lack of willingness to say anything but "change" we will have a change!!! nobama 08

McCain vs. Obama: The race race

Sue, Bloomington, IN — Fri, 01 Aug 2008 14:11:45 GMT

Somewhere between 2000 and 2008, John McCain seems to have lost his soul. What a sad, low road he is travelling these days.

McCain vs. Obama: The race race

Obama: CHANGE you can rely on DAILY — Fri, 01 Aug 2008 14:12:29 GMT

McCain vs. Obama: The race race

Adam, St. Louis — Fri, 01 Aug 2008 14:13:23 GMT

Casey,
I would call you an idiot, but I hate pointing out the obvious! Calling us drunks?? I am guessing you or your offspring haven't spent time in Iraq. Or perhaps you enjoy 4+ dollars a gallon, or maybe, JUST MAYBE, You have no real opinions on ANYTHING and you just enjoy random thoughts with no real rationalism or logic? You really should work for McCain, he is all for the name calling and lower than normal standards, I would think a person would have to be running for POTUS. Who knows, but honestly, I am a independant always have been and always will be, but the simple fact that McCain is the best the republicans can come up with, I am voting for Obama. For a better future.

McCain vs. Obama: The race race

Lisa, New Orleans, LA — Fri, 01 Aug 2008 14:13:46 GMT

Lisa in New Orleans: please enlighten us on when McCain has made comments about a this "young guy" and his "audacity".
------

Obama: CHANGE you can rely on DAILY (Sent Friday, August 01, 2008 10:01 AM)

As usual, you republicans twist words. If you read the post carefully, I never said that Senator McCain has ever made these comments. What I said is that his campaign has complained that Senator Obama is arrogant. But, if you are capable of reading, here's an article for you. http://www.nytimes.com/2008/07/31/us/politics/31campaign.html. Do I have your permission to print it here now?

McCain vs. Obama: The race race

Eileen, Portland, Maine — Fri, 01 Aug 2008 14:16:47 GMT

"With his rejoinder about playing ‘the race card,’ Mr. Davis effectively assured that race would once again become an unavoidable issue as voters face an election in which, for the first time, one of the major parties’ nominees is African-American. And with its criticism, the McCain campaign was ensuring that Mr. Obama’s race would again be a factor in coverage of the presidential race. On Thursday, it took the spotlight from Mr. Obama when he had sought to attack Mr. McCain on energy issues.”

Republican: It doesn't matter if I do it and the whole world sees it, I will deny it and at least half the world will believe me anyway.

McCain vs. Obama: The race race

DT, Washington DC — Fri, 01 Aug 2008 14:18:05 GMT

It is becoming easier to tell the Obama people from the McCain people. The Obama people are swayed by presentation and the McCain people are swayed by facts. The Obama people do not like the presentation of this ad and the McCain people only see the facts that this ad puts forward.

Ask the average, Black, blue collar person who they will vote for and they will tell you Obama. Ask them’ why’ and they will tell you “Because he is Black” That is “Racism” by any standards. You do NOT vote for a person because of their color! When Obama gives a public speech declaring that he no longer wants race to be an issue AND condemns the use of the term “African-American” and tells the world we are all just “Americans” and we need to quit segregating ourselves, then I will believe that he is sincere about not playing ‘the race card’. This would be very easy for him to do if he honestly believed we are all Americans! By default he is supporting Racism! This single act would forever change our view of him. Whether he does it or not, will tell us of his true belief. If he does not act he leaves a doubt in the minds of ALL NON-Black people. That’s people of all races not just white!

There is a major difference between ‘Leadership’ and ‘Management’. Read some of Steven Covey’s internationally acclaimed books on this subject if you are not sure. Obama is a great Manager but not a Leader. The President of the United States must be a Leader. During Obama’s 12 years as a college professor he never wrote one intellectual article placing his opinion out front for other college professors to critique. That is a fact! That is not Leadership, people. That is Management! I want a leader as my President.

America’s alternative energy solution will come about no matter who is president because we are intelligent people and we recognize that, long term, that is our best answer. It can be factually said that the next President will be in office 4 years. That’s the presidents’ term limit. There are no guarantees for another 4 years. No president can transform this country into an alternative energy country in 4 years. No President can guarantee that his policies will continue after he/she leaves office. Our scientists have been working on this for 20 years and, because of technology, we are just now beginning to make progress. McCain is giving us practical Leadership for the short term and the long term solutions. The wealthy and powerful oil industry is not going to role over and give up its’ hold on energy just because… Did the tobacco industry? They still haven’t even though we know the terrible health results of their product. No industry will! A leader needs to find a solution for our transitional period that may last several generations. Obama give us a ‘pie-in-the-sky’, McCain is trying to find a workable solution.

I have read the comments about popularity. Most of those comments are written with emotion not logic. I hope we elect a President, this time, who uses logic not emotional outbursts to Lead. Hitler was also very popular with the people. So was Mussolini. Popularity is not necessarily a good thing or a bad thing. The person’s opinions about the best direction this country should go is what really matters not his ‘Presentation’. Both candidates are using ‘Presentation’ in some of their messages! Condemn both of them! And remember, just because a candidate points out what the ‘Political Newspeak“ of his opponent is, does not mean he is attacking the other person, otherwise the next time you get in a discussion with a friend you are not allowed to counter what they are purposing. You can’t have it both ways unless you are willing to say you are a hypocrite. Then you can vote for any hypocrite you want and let the rest of us vote for our President.

McCain vs. Obama: The race race

Pass the Arugula — Fri, 01 Aug 2008 14:18:16 GMT

This is what the Dems should be saying over and over again. "Why did it take a month for the Republicans to say Obama was using the race card?"
-------------------------------------------
Because it was only this week that 'I want it both Ways' Obama trotted out his race in 3 separate speeches on the same day.

McCain vs. Obama: The race race

Obama: CHANGE you can rely on DAILY — Fri, 01 Aug 2008 14:18:56 GMT

r labeling Michelle as "Obama baby mama."
---------------------
Cindy Lou in TX: Fox News didn't "label" her. Michelle HERSELF referred to herself at a campaign stump as his "baby mama". Trying to look cool with the young crowd, I guess, by using what some would see as a self-denigrating comment.

McCain vs. Obama: The race race

Stella Zimmerman, St. Louis, MO — Fri, 01 Aug 2008 14:19:06 GMT

RE: Clinton confidante Howard Wolfson seemed to back up Schmidt's argument. "‘I think the McCain camp watched our primary on the Democratic side very carefully and they know that any accusation of racial divisiveness can be very, very harmful for a candidate's prospects,’

Which is why Hillary dispatched Howard out there to keep campaigning for her. She is 'so' not done yet.

McCain vs. Obama: The race race

Elizabeth — Fri, 01 Aug 2008 14:20:13 GMT

Elizabeth R., Oilville VA

"Let's be honest-has anyone ever heard McCain make a race-based jab at Obama? Rev. Wright is a legitimate issue for people questioning Obama's judgment-I fail to see where that is racist."
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
Elizabeth,

The problem is you don't see a problem with holding Senator Obama resposible for something SOMEONE else said, but you feel that John McCain should only be responsible for things that come out of his own mouth. How is that NOT a double standard?

The "race" part is really irrelevant - the point is the CLOSE ASSOCIATES of Senator McCain HAVE brought up the race issue (among other things), and John McCain HAS benefitted, and John McCain HASN'T distanced himself. Why is he held to a different standard than Senator Obama?
-------------------------------------------------
Can you please give me an example or two? The Rev Wright question is not about race, it's about having a close relationship with someone who says 'G D America' and spews hate.

McCain vs. Obama: The race race

Benny, SFBayArea, California — Fri, 01 Aug 2008 14:20:37 GMT

So, Obama made the same comments back in June and no one got their panties all tied up in a bunch. He pointed out that there were groups out there that would attempt to make the fact that he does not look like the other presidents a reason for you to be scared of him. This is a fact. There ARE groups out there that want the voters to be scared of him. Some people point to John Sydney McCain III's age and say he is too old and therefore scary. You take the most obvious things (Obama is black, McCain is old) about each candidate and try to make people leery of it. This is Politics 101. But for the McCain to jump on something that has been in the public record for more than 6 weeks and NOW claim that the race card is being played smacks of desperation. I have to agree with Obama when he said "Is that all he's got?"
Really, John, is that all your campaign is going to be about? Going backwards seems to be the direction the Straight Talk Express has been headed recently and I'm waiting for you to give me something positive and forward-looking instead of the stream of negativity. John, you used to be better than this and now you are just looking sad.

McCain vs. Obama: The race race

brokentrust, pittsburgh — Fri, 01 Aug 2008 14:20:45 GMT

most of you are blaming the campaigns for for all the lies. however, its the media regurgitating all those lies. people, trust none of the media.

McCain vs. Obama: The race race

Lisa, NY — Fri, 01 Aug 2008 14:21:45 GMT

Race is an issue in this country. Many want to believe that we have evolved to look beyond color but we have not.

If we had we would no longer need things like minority quotas, NAACP, and the Black caucus.

Many in this country are still fighting the civil war and others still feel they are entitled to things because of slavery.

Personally my family was stomping grapes in Italy until the 1930's when my grandparents came to the US and color means nothing.

The race card works in both directions...

For the GOP it insights the hatred that so many feel and for the liberals thinking you see beyond color helps to alleviate guilt about what this country once stood for and inspires African Americans to step up and vote.

Both Obama ans McCain are playing the race card to their advantage...who will win in the end? I guess we'll know in November.

McCain vs. Obama: The race race

I respect Senator Obama! — Fri, 01 Aug 2008 14:24:12 GMT

Senator Obama is telling the truth and mccain's camp knows it! mccain's camp is trying to pre-empt the truth, and that is the difference between a respectable campaign and a dishonorable campaign.

mccain is running a dishonorable campaign!

McCain vs. Obama: The race race

Terri Renee, Atlanta, GA — Fri, 01 Aug 2008 14:24:15 GMT

Regarding the race issue - yesterday i was listening to XM POTUS channel a live "town-hall" with McCain - just to again show what Senator Obama is up against - some young person in their 20's stood up and said - almost in tears - " i am so afraid of Obama - you have to stay on him DON'T LET HIM GET AWAY WITH ANYTHING!!!" That just disgusted me - i agree - Obama unfortunately has got to get nasty for the low information voters in this country! Unbelievable - i wanted to CRY for Mr. Obama and the fight he must have to face on a daily basis - to prove each day - he's a patriot, he's an American, he's this he's that - i've never seen such scrutiny demanded of any other candidate in all my years.
thank you -

GO OBAMA/BIDEN O8 AND 12!!!

McCain vs. Obama: The race race

I respect Senator Obama! — Fri, 01 Aug 2008 14:24:23 GMT

McCain vs. Obama: The race race

susaninIN — Fri, 01 Aug 2008 14:28:01 GMT

The McCain camp played the race card by claiming Obama presumptuous and uppity.
---------------
SusaninIN: please tell us when the McCain camp used those words. You're doing the same thing Obama did by attributing words to somebody when they didn't use them.

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

You don't remember all the talk of Obama being presumptuous by going overseas and giving a talk? This was said by numerous McCain surrogates and is the basis for the 'celebrity' ad. What I want to know is how is it presumptuous when the black guy does it, but not when the white guy did? And how is this not racist?