First thoughts: The Olympics lull

Dan, New York, NY — Fri, 08 Aug 2008 13:20:28 GMT

Since First Read is essentially a blog, can you guys ask the hosts over at MSNBC to stop insulting your audience the way one did last night? Take a look:

http://strategy08.wordpress.com/2008/08/08/msnbc-likes-to-insult-its-audience/

First thoughts: The Olympics lull

Har Dee Har Har — Fri, 08 Aug 2008 13:24:17 GMT

Obama is resting while the old man is campaigning? ROFL!!

First thoughts: The Olympics lull

Paul Miller, Woodbridge, VA — Fri, 08 Aug 2008 13:25:11 GMT

It takes lies and sophomoric gags for Republicans to start feeling good again? That's a little sad.

I'm all for the Olympics lull. The country needs to get away from the cartoon version of an actual presidential campaign cycle upon which McCain has thrust the country.

So, go USA! And it started early this morning with our somewhat humble soccer team winning its opener over Japan. However we're in a group with the Dutch and Nigerians, so it could well be our last win in that particular medal chase. Who knows, with a little luck...

On the off chance anyone is interested, the Olympics aren't a huge focus for the soccer world. These are mostly under-23 teams, with a couple older players. So its more like a tournament of World Cup development teams than anything else.

First thoughts: The Olympics lull

mtk - california — Fri, 08 Aug 2008 13:25:53 GMT

Obama is actually in the Olympics. He competes in the BS The People Event. He's favored for the Gold.

First thoughts: The Olympics lull

JUICY — Fri, 08 Aug 2008 13:26:39 GMT

THOSE MEMO'S SHOULD BE JUICY ... SHOW HOW THE CLINTON'S REALLY FEEL ABOUT THE OBAMA PRESIDENCY!

First thoughts: The Olympics lull

carla — Fri, 08 Aug 2008 13:27:51 GMT

No - it's more MSNBC-Clinton drama! and Obamedia will continue exploiting the Clintons to increase ratings!

NObama!

First thoughts: The Olympics lull

Joe - STL — Fri, 08 Aug 2008 13:28:50 GMT

I think Obama can atually turn the Kilpatrick mess into a positive thing by emphasizing the point that the type of politics Kilpatrick ran is exactly at the heart of the mess in and out of Washington, and Obama aims to change the political playing field across the country. Emphasize that in Detroit, this is a chance to rreally turn the page and come together to make the forward progress that has been so far out of reach.

First thoughts: The Olympics lull

Rodney Hopper, Waxahachie, TX — Fri, 08 Aug 2008 13:29:10 GMT

I think we're probably seeing the high point of the McCain campaign. It has to say something that they're at their highest when the least amount of people are paying attention.

Once September rolls around, you'll start to see some real separation.

By the way, when are we going to start seeing Barr on some of these 'polls'? That will make a difference as well.

First thoughts: The Olympics lull

sotiredofignorance — Fri, 08 Aug 2008 13:29:53 GMT

While MSNBC is televising the Olympics, and Joe Scarborough goes off to wherever he goes, it is a good time for the network to totally retool that show and find better hosts. (And not Mike Barnicle, he is the most boring man on the planet.) I hope that MSNBC uses better judgment and gets people of intelligence to anchor that show.

First thoughts: The Olympics lull

GDI in Michigan — Fri, 08 Aug 2008 13:31:42 GMT

I cant wait to see the memo's.
Should be good insight into the political campaign.

Also I have been saying for months Michigan is going to be harder for Obama then the CW states. and the Kilpatrick thing is just one of the issues.
people here are not happy with the State government right now and that is run by Democrats. All politics are local. Wouldn’t be surprised if the GOP takes the governors office next time around.

First thoughts: The Olympics lull

Nashville_fan — Fri, 08 Aug 2008 13:31:54 GMT

"But if this is the low point for Obama, and McCain is still behind, that isn’t necessarily good news for the GOP."
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
Ya think? lol

P.S. Congrats to Rep. Cohen. Let's hope this is a sign that the old politics of fear is dying a long awaited death. It's time to turn the page.

Obama/Biden '08/'12

First thoughts: The Olympics lull

banko — Fri, 08 Aug 2008 13:32:17 GMT

"In the coming days it’s going to be interesting to watch this debate between John McCain and John McCain," he said

TPMtv: Dazed and Confused
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iWX5u69hmzY&eurl

First thoughts: The Olympics lull

Pat, Boston, MA — Fri, 08 Aug 2008 13:34:02 GMT

I can't wait for the convention. It's going to be really something. Very historical. And I'm glad the Clintons are going to be there.

It's all starting to come together. Can't wait.

First thoughts: The Olympics lull

C A, Tuscaloosa, AL — Fri, 08 Aug 2008 13:34:21 GMT

This is the quiet before the storm. Remember the primary. Obama vacationed while Hillary continued to campaign and beat herself with mistakes. While Oabma takes a break in Hawaii McCain will continue to campaign and make even more mistakes. Obama is not stupid. Let McCain take the heat and continue to lose ground all by himself for a week or two. I hope Obama has a nice quiet vacation. He needs to get away from all the idiots who criticize him for a while including some o nthis blog. In fact, he needs to rejuvenate and while thinking of these people ask himself again just why the hell he is running for Presdient when he will have to represent all of those numbskulls out there and on this blog who have no clue. The man is certainly a glutton for punishment so I hope he has a nice break.

But after the break watch. He'll come back and turn up the heat on McCain and begin to pull away to win this nomination.

First thoughts: The Olympics lull

Pete - Albany, NY — Fri, 08 Aug 2008 13:35:58 GMT

"Mr. McCain took the lead in YouTube hits."

That's because people wanted to see the "Gaffe Du Jour"!

First thoughts: The Olympics lull

Jasper Zeigler Jr - Montco , Pennsylvania — Fri, 08 Aug 2008 13:36:17 GMT

lol... Obama on vacation , the olympics and yours truly about to chase the ladies... lol.

I sincerely hope McCain and the Clintons can keep fein improvements up. Then again Russia has some questionable emerging intents happening.

First thoughts: The Olympics lull

RENEA — Fri, 08 Aug 2008 13:36:42 GMT

Mccain has never met a lobbyist he did not like.Mccain has never met a trade deal he did not like.Mccain has never met a tax break for the rich that he did not like. Clintons=DIVAS

First thoughts: The Olympics lull

Diane from Illinois — Fri, 08 Aug 2008 13:36:55 GMT

I hope Obama gets some much needed rest. He's earned it. Also hope he gives serious thoughts to his VP choice. I, for one, do NOT want Hillary. Some seem to think Bill Clinton's spot at the convention is so he can introduce Hillary as the next VP.......ugh. Obama will have to have a food taster if that's the case; the Clintons don't want the # 2 spot and will go to ANY lengths to get there. Look at the list of people who have already "disappeared" for them in the past; it's truly fightening. With all the choices at his disposal I don't know why he might feel pressured to chose her. He would win without her and all the drama that comes with the Clintons.

First thoughts: The Olympics lull

MK,MO — Fri, 08 Aug 2008 13:38:17 GMT

why on earth would anyone in michigan vote for mccain when the republican policies of corporate worship and complete anti american worker, anti union,
outsource everything attitude is what mccain has to offer, mccain said the good jobs are not coming back, he failed to mention that the reason they were not coming back is because him and his wealthy republican buddies don't want them to come back, they want america to be a nation of have's and have not's, which category do you think they want the american worker in?

First thoughts: The Olympics lull

Jane - OH — Fri, 08 Aug 2008 13:39:36 GMT

The Clintons are not helping Obama. If they were not whining today's headline would be about McCain having to give back donations, instead it is about the Clintons and their role in speaking at the convention.

First thoughts: The Olympics lull

Pete - Albany, NY — Fri, 08 Aug 2008 13:39:48 GMT

Obama is resting while the old man is campaigning? ROFL!!
Har Dee Har Har (Sent Friday, August 08, 2008 9:24 AM)

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

Have you noticed the number of weekends off Old Man River takes? It also helps him that he hasn't bothered to be at his Senate job since April 8!

First thoughts: The Olympics lull

Beverly in Chicago — Fri, 08 Aug 2008 13:40:07 GMT

Perhaps if Nikki Tinker (who is black) had not committed political suicide she could have maintained her seat. Ku Klux Klan images, whether subtle or not also have no basis. As Barack said…” incendiary and personal attacks have no place in our politics, and will do nothing to help the good people of Tennessee. It's time to turn the page on a politics driven by negativity and division so that we can come together to lift up our communities and our country”.

Question: what makes the Ku Klux Klan think Barack would endorse their double, covert standards?

First thoughts: The Olympics lull

matt — Fri, 08 Aug 2008 13:40:50 GMT

Obama needs to come back from his vacation and the Olympics and move the fight to McCain. He's in a rut, his numbers are dropping/stagnant; it's not good. Where is the magic of Axelrod or Plouffe?

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

First thoughts: The Olympics lull

caobe — Fri, 08 Aug 2008 13:42:04 GMT

next week is going to be pretty boring

watch Hillary stump for Obama live here
http://sensico.wordpress.com/2008/07/24/watch-obama-live-in-germany/

First thoughts: The Olympics lull

Pablo - Venice, Fl — Fri, 08 Aug 2008 13:42:12 GMT

Well Senator Obama has decided to take a short vacation. I wonder if he is going to read some of the poetry of his mentor "Frank" which he quoted on one of his book. The more I see Senator Obama and read about his positions, the more I believe that he is a socialist at heart. I had the chance to live in a communist and socialist system and believe me , I learned a lot about such governments. Like the said on the street, if a person thinks like a socialist, has socialist policies, and intends to govern like a socialist, no doubt that he is a socialist.

First thoughts: The Olympics lull

Just curious in Ga., Atlanta — Fri, 08 Aug 2008 13:43:54 GMT

I have a question for the well informed bloggers that i have come to respect on FR (and i mean that genuinely). During the Democratic Convention when Bill Clinton was the presumptive nominee, were their any names placed on the ballot at the convention and was their a roll call vote during either of the conventions when Bill was the presumptive nominee?? I seriously can't remember, so if someone could answer that question for me it would be greatly appreciated. Thanks, and i actually enjoy most of the comments posted here on FR, some are very informative and can be checked and verified for accuracy and truthfullness not just opinions, so again i say thanks!!

First thoughts: The Olympics lull

Rick,Ky — Fri, 08 Aug 2008 13:46:08 GMT

For all of You pundit's who say AA's are voting Race this year, put the Cohen Victory in your pipe & smoke it!

John McCain can't break the 42-43% mark. Barack continues to get 45-48%. I'll take those odds anyday of the Week & twice on Sundays.Even the Ultra-Pundit Pat Buchanon, knows that spells T-R-O-U-B-L-E for the Gay Ole Party.

As for Bill Clinton, he is Deserving of a Prime speaking spot at the convention,also, he'll energize Democrats for the Ultimate Landslide that is coming in November.Take it to the bank, My Friends!

Barack & Family, enjoy your well-deserved vaction. America knows you'll come back Ready & Rested to confront the ever incresing problems America faces.

Delusional Thinking By Common Sense American's Is Over!!!

Go U.S.A.

First thoughts: The Olympics lull

g`pa — Fri, 08 Aug 2008 13:48:09 GMT

maybe peggy noonan thinks everbody is as stupid as she is..

First thoughts: The Olympics lull

Paul, Miami, FL — Fri, 08 Aug 2008 13:50:14 GMT

The Kilpatrick troubles will not affect Obama in Detroit. Detroit has a big AA population who will vote for Obama regardless. Come on FR, get with it, you guys want to make this race closer than it seems.

First thoughts: The Olympics lull

Andrea, New York City — Fri, 08 Aug 2008 13:50:27 GMT

Obama's new ad is really quite beautiful. It gets to the heart of the concept of turning one work talent into another.
******************************************************

I am one of those nitwits with computer, Mike Barnacle. I was really surprised that, that came out of your mouth last night. Oh well, another forward thinking person (so I thought) bit the dust!!
*******************************************************

As for Obama over-exposure—I am really fascinated with the Obama story and proud that his story is getting us Americans up and running with interest and self analysis.

It is too bad that he has (Obama) to be trashed so much everyday. He is even being criticized for going to see his Grandma.

I did not think that folks could stoop so low. Is this what we Americans are all about??

First thoughts: The Olympics lull

Pat, Boston,, MA — Fri, 08 Aug 2008 13:53:36 GMT

2008 Presidential Election - First Half:

As I watch Chuck Todd on tv, Im always reminded of the primaries. Remember the high we got coming out of Super Tuesday when Senator Obama won state after state all across the country? Chuck came on tv with all his maps and numbers and told his viewers how Senator Obama was most likely going to get the nomination. Then a few hours later he would come back on with a slightly different scenario, explaining how it was POSSIBLE that Senator Clinton could beat Senator Obama. I always got the impression that the Clinton campaign was telling him he was being too biased towards Obama. As the night would wear on, Chuck would look and act professional at all times, yet a bit fatigued. But in the end, he stuck to his guns when most all of the commentators and journalists were saying something different.

Barack Obama's supporters were getting more depressed by the day as the "bittergate", "Rev. Wrightgate" and "proud to be an Americangate" stories saturated the airways. They were scared to death that Senator Obama wasn't going to win. But because of Chuck's work and especially how he was able to look ahead & calculate the end results of the remaining states weeks in advance of their primary, I had to convince people each and every day with as much confidence as I could muster up, that the numbers just weren't there for Senator Clinton. But to be honest, if it weren't for Chuck's analysis, I probably would have jumped off a bridge.
__________________
Great work Chuck. Now is the time for all of us to catch up on some baseball. Tampa Bay Devil Rays, welcome to the AL East. What a great story.

Just like this election.

First thoughts: The Olympics lull

New Indi — Fri, 08 Aug 2008 13:53:58 GMT

If we are supposed to be shocked to learn that memos sent from one Clinton staffer to another contain nasty and mean spirited comments about Obama and or his staff....well....

This sort of stuff is just tabloid journalism.

McCain does have a chance this fall and Obama better make a not of that fact! Clinton on the ticket would assure a win and everyone knows it. If Clinton is not on the ticket and Obama loses he will have nobody to blame but himself.

Just as it happened in the Primary race, Obama is losing steam. Wait till the Republican machine goes into attack mode come mid October.....

First thoughts: The Olympics lull

Amy B Portland, ME — Fri, 08 Aug 2008 13:56:37 GMT

McCain may win, but how can he govern, after a campaign based on personal attacks? And we all know the sh-- will hit the fan after Bush leaves office and more info comes out over his administrations abuse of power and incompetency. How will a Republican administration get anything done, having to defend the previous administration practically every day?

First thoughts: The Olympics lull

Brian M. — Fri, 08 Aug 2008 13:58:53 GMT

erhaps if Nikki Tinker (who is black) had not committed political suicide she could have maintained her seat. Ku Klux Klan images, whether subtle or not also have no basis. As Barack said…” incendiary and personal attacks have no place in our politics, and will do nothing to help the good people of Tennessee. It's time to turn the page on a politics driven by negativity and division so that we can come together to lift up our communities and our country”.

Question: what makes the Ku Klux Klan think Barack would endorse their double, covert standards?

Beverly in Chicago (Sent Friday, August 08, 2008 9:40 AM
Beverly I just wanted to point out 2 facts to you and yes I am an Obama supporter. 1) Tinker was not the incumbant, Cohen who she ran against was and is again.
2) You lost me on the KKK covert double standard thing. Cohen is Jewish meaning that the KKK does not like him .So that one is way out in left field.
I think Tinker tried a dirty trick and it back fired . I think it is about time that low ball politics fail in America. That is another reason I hope and pray that McBush loses his low ball politics are disgusting. Obama/ ????? 08 & 12
Pablo I am sorry but that statement is your opinion , which smells of repuked talking points. nice try pal

First thoughts: The Olympics lull

Steven, Highlands Ranch, CO — Fri, 08 Aug 2008 13:59:41 GMT

Clara, I loved your dissertation in the other thread. It was right on the money. One thing that befuddles me about the Republican platform is how they can be against abortion rights but for the death penalty...?!?

How does that make any sense at all?

donna, if you see this, I'm sending positive energy to you and your dad.

First thoughts: The Olympics lull

Pat Huntington NY — Fri, 08 Aug 2008 14:00:55 GMT

Obama taking some time off is nothing compared to McCain's no Campaign Saturdays, and his Record Absences from his first job...US Senator!

McCain...too old to campaign, too old to be president!

First thoughts: The Olympics lull

MK in MI — Fri, 08 Aug 2008 14:00:58 GMT

"In fact, he [Obama] needs to rejuvenate and while thinking of these people ask himself again just why the hell he is running for Presdient when he will have to represent all of those numbskulls out there and on this blog who have no clue."

Thank you C.A., Tuscaloosa - - I'm glad you admit that the Dumbocruds on this blog have no clue and that Obama represents Democrat numbskulls. I know for sure that he does not represent me and my views.

First thoughts: The Olympics lull

GDI in Michigan — Fri, 08 Aug 2008 14:04:21 GMT

why on earth would anyone in michigan vote for mccain
MK,MO (Sent Friday, August 08, 2008 9:38 AM)

The Kilpatrick troubles will not affect Obama in Detroit. Detroit has a big AA population who will vote for Obama regardless
Paul, Miami, FL

All polotics are local. and the AA population in Detroit will not carry the state without "OutState" voters. The Democrat brand has been damaged here in Michigan. the fact that Michigan is a toss up right now is proof of that.

First thoughts: The Olympics lull

Frank "Grimey" Grimes, Springfield, USA — Fri, 08 Aug 2008 14:04:37 GMT

I'll preface this by saying that I am a conservative and a McCain supporter, but kudos to Rep. Cohen. I don't agree with his politics, but it's good to see that he won despite one of the more despicable political ads I've ever seen.

Paul Miller...I'm with you on the soccer. It is very exciting to see the younger players in action on the world stage. Only shame of it is that the games are soooo early. Kinda reminds me of the World Cup a few years ago in Japan / South Korea. Guess that's what they made TiVo for!! Enjoy the games and GO USA!!

First thoughts: The Olympics lull

2ez — Fri, 08 Aug 2008 14:04:45 GMT

Just Curious in GA: No names other than Clinton's were put into the mix in 92. I believe the last time there was a "floor fight" was between Ted Kennedy and Carter. This year's primaries were extremely close. Between Kennedy and Carter, it was a wide gap. I believe Kennedy was down about 700 delegates, and they let him wage still trying to get the nomination at the convention. So, with as close as it is this year, it would not have been unusual for HRC to carry on to the convention. And, with as close as it was this year, that is why it was so disappointing for Dem leaders to try to push her out before the primaries were even over when just years before they kept every door open for Teddy.

First thoughts: The Olympics lull

Clara Kansas City, MO — Fri, 08 Aug 2008 14:05:34 GMT

I wish there were a politician brave enough to say "its none of your business" when journalists ask them about their "faith."
Amy B Portland, ME (Sent Friday, August 08, 2008 9:44 AM)

I couldn't agree with you more. Where is the separation? "W" professed to have a later in life 'calling' and look where that's gotten us? Why do so many professed Christians rail against Abortion and rally FOR war? I just can't reconcile that hypocrisy.

PS. Just watched The Contender w/ Joan Allen last night. Important dialogue and a couple of great speeches. It is a really Patriotic/Feminist movie - I love it!

First thoughts: The Olympics lull

2ez — Fri, 08 Aug 2008 14:07:23 GMT

It is too bad that he has (Obama) to be trashed so much everyday. He is even being criticized for going to see his Grandma.

I did not think that folks could stoop so low. Is this what we Americans are all about??
Andrea, New York City (Sent Friday, August 08, 2008 9:50 AM)

If I were Obama's grandmother and he called me a "typical white person", I'm not sure I'd let him come visit! How disrespectful.

First thoughts: The Olympics lull

MK in MI — Fri, 08 Aug 2008 14:07:58 GMT

MK in MO, I don't think you have a clue about Michigan. We are fed up with the Democrat governor and democrat mayor of detroit. If you had any clue about the auto industry, which is this state's bread-and-butter, you would know that unions ARE part of the reason we've lost so many jobs here. McCain DOES want the jobs to come back - - for those who are willing to work. Unlike Barack's socialist views that makes everyone think they're ENTITLED to something without lifting a finger. Barack wants bigger government and I want more freedom. There are PLENTY of republicans here that will vote for McCain.

First thoughts: The Olympics lull

Lisa, NY — Fri, 08 Aug 2008 14:09:19 GMT

To just curious...

I don't believe there was an additonal dem on the ballot against Bill Clinton.

But...Ted Kennedy's name was on the '76 ballot against Carter and Gary Hart's was in '88 against Dukakis.

Adding Hillary's name would not be a new precedent.

First thoughts: The Olympics lull

John Alexander,PA — Fri, 08 Aug 2008 14:12:00 GMT

McCains numbers were bound to go up when the base finally knew this was all they were getting this year, this is not surprising.
When Clinton speaks at the convention and with Hillary stumping for Obama you will see a rise in his numbers. it is as simple as that.
Of course we will have to get through the Clinton/Obama drama stories that the media keeps floating.
But any smart voter sees these stories for what they are, political fodder for the masses that has no real value when it comes time to vote.

First thoughts: The Olympics lull

BJ, CA — Fri, 08 Aug 2008 14:12:33 GMT

YouTube hits should be called YourScrewed hits..
It's running 70 to 30% bad to good in the hits for McJellyHead...
Obama's no where close to those numbers ..
I't's history of bash versus a history of sense.
And when it comes right down to it McJellyHead is a better looming valued target....

First thoughts: The Olympics lull

New Indi — Fri, 08 Aug 2008 14:13:14 GMT

Some seem to think Bill Clinton's spot at the convention is so he can introduce Hillary as the next VP.......ugh. Obama will have to have a food taster if that's the case; the Clintons don't want the # 2 spot and will go to ANY lengths to get there. Look at the list of people who have already "disappeared" for them in the past; it's truly fightening.

Diane from Illinois.....

Making a statement like this is no less dispicable than to suggest that Obama is not a patriot because he did not place his hand on his heart...or that he is a Muslim and therefore a terrorist because his middle name is Hussein. Maybe you should contact McCain to see if he needs any additional help in Swift boating Obama. You seem to have a knack for smearing by innuendo and perpetuating slander.

And you want to talk about the Clintons and their "Drama"........

First thoughts: The Olympics lull

Paul Miller, Woodbridge, VA — Fri, 08 Aug 2008 14:15:45 GMT

New Indi: "Just as it happened in the Primary race, Obama is losing steam."

And after he's elected, will we start immediately hearing how he can't be re-elected in 2012?

Did Obama really lose steam or was that media fabrication, based on two factors?

One was the state by state strengths of both Obama and Clinton. Reference Axelrod's memo, in which he pretty closely predicted all post-Super Tuesday contests. It just happened that Obama's better playing fields came up shortly after Super Tuesday and Clinton's came up later.

The other is that Obama wasn't pressing hard once it became obvious he would reach the needed number of delegates. He did this in an attempt to avoid dumping fuel on the fires of Clinton supporters' sensitivities. Maybe this was a mistake, and maybe he should have continued to press - I'm not sure.

But there is no doubt he wasn't pressing in August (when the media was questioning him as to why), began to turn it up in order to peak for Iowa, maintained a competitive campaign through the primaries until victory was assured, and then returned to non-pressing mode.

And now, we see some in the media and among his supporters again asking why he isn't delivering more of the tough responses now, in August.

My guess is they are again timing their push.

First thoughts: The Olympics lull

Cindy Lou, TX — Fri, 08 Aug 2008 14:17:21 GMT

I'm soooooooo glad for the lull caused by the Olympics. I'm tired of the negative coverage--at least as it concerns Obama--that has become the reporting on the presidential race.

As for Noonan's hopes that the Republicans can win, McCain has been helped by his "base," aka the MSM that labels him a maverick and that refuses to magnify his mistakes. (Can anyone imagine what would have happened if Sargeant had been a bundler for Obama instead of McCain?)

Here's hoping that the MSM will allow Obama to vacation away from the glare of the cameras and microphones. (If I were Obama, I'd have my grandmother's home and the nearby beach swept for bugs.)

First thoughts: The Olympics lull

Nashville_fan — Fri, 08 Aug 2008 14:17:58 GMT

"And, with as close as it was this year, that is why it was so disappointing for Dem leaders to try to push her out before the primaries were even over when just years before they kept every door open for Teddy. " - 2ez
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
The DELEGATE COUNT pushed her out. The DEBT that she ran up long AFTER it was IMPOSSIBLE for her to secure enough delegates tells me someone is not basing their decisions on REALITY.

No more excuses for the Clintons. The have the "strength and experience" to pay their own way, accept responsibilty for their actions (isn't it time?), and show some of these leadership skills they keep claiming they have.

It's time to put up AND shut up.

First thoughts: The Olympics lull

Pacheck, Huntington Beach, Ca. — Fri, 08 Aug 2008 14:22:15 GMT

McCain is a warrior. He loves the whole atmosphere. Hs major problem is that he has always been on the losing side. In Nam he spent his time as a prisoner before we surrendered. He supported and backed bush in his war that we are now losing. He maintains as president he would stay for "One hundred years" until we win. This poor old man needs to retire to the old soldiers home, if he still has not voted it closed down. Noun,verb surge is not the winning battle cry of the future. Rebuild Americas middle class needs to be our priority.