First thoughts: Abortion politics

Dan, New York, NY — Thu, 14 Aug 2008 13:24:45 GMT

What's the deal with Obama's VP search? Anyone else confused by the strategy? Take a look:

http://strategy08.wordpress.com/2008/08/14/whats-going-on-with-obamas-vp-search/

First thoughts: Abortion politics

the Pajama Pundit — Thu, 14 Aug 2008 13:26:42 GMT

I too have lost a ton of sleep. Why oh why did I get rid of my TiVo?!

http://thepajamapundit.com/

First thoughts: Abortion politics

camie — Thu, 14 Aug 2008 13:27:45 GMT

well thank god mccain changed his olympic ad. I havent seen the new one but why for the olympics would mccain think its ok to recycle a negative ad.
Obama's ad is ten times better.
Obama has a moderate reasonable position on abortion. McCain has extreme views on abortion which is why hes not winning among women. Remember the supreme court is already filled with more conservatives, mccain would put more in.

New Obama Ad Featuring Voters
http://sensico.wordpress.com/2008/08/13/new-obama-ad-featuring-voters/
or
http://sensico2.blogspot.com/2008/07/my-blogs.html

First thoughts: Abortion politics

Clara Kansas City, MO — Thu, 14 Aug 2008 13:28:34 GMT

"...It means less time for the media and activists to second-guess their choices..."

Why on earth would you need to second guess it? You've completely covered everything in the speculation alone. MSM needs some OTHER shiny object to occupy their time. Veepstakes is so last month.

First thoughts: Abortion politics

Nashville_fan — Thu, 14 Aug 2008 13:29:18 GMT

"The DNC has unveiled a new Web video featuring Franklin Roosevelt’s grandson that hits McCain for supporting past efforts to privatize Social Security and for calling the system “a disgrace” while on the stump. The video ends, “Keep your hands off our Social Security.”
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
Good move - maybe they should also point out that John McCain RECEIVES Social Security, even though he and his wife are very WEALTHY. Now that's the real disgrace.

First thoughts: Abortion politics

I'm Just Sayin' — Thu, 14 Aug 2008 13:30:05 GMT

The latest polling data, if the trend is to be believed, is disheartening. It shows that ONCE AGAIN, Americans haven't learned. ONCE AGAIN enough of the populace reacts to the slime deception tactics practiced by Karl Rove protege Steve Schmidt that the professional talking heads are saying, "see, negative deception works."

First thoughts: Abortion politics

Paul Miller, Woodbridge, VA — Thu, 14 Aug 2008 13:30:07 GMT

Okay, First Read, this one has been repeated too often to raise the question.

Domenico - did Casey's dad not speak in 1992 because he's pro-life or because he didn't endorse the Clinton-Gore ticket?

First thoughts: Abortion politics

Clara Kansas City, MO — Thu, 14 Aug 2008 13:30:30 GMT

"But let’s face it: Social Security has been a winning issue for Democrats in past elections, and Bush’s failed effort in 2005 to partially privatize it -- which McCain supported -- marked the beginning of the White House’s and the GOP's current political woes."
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
Given McCain's ignorance on this matter, this is definitely a winner for the Dems. In fact, I think McCain is proud of his ignorance.

First thoughts: Abortion politics

BJ, CA — Thu, 14 Aug 2008 13:30:36 GMT

Don't sell your soul for $64,000.00.
The gasoline alone will cost at least that much.

First thoughts: Abortion politics

Henna Walker, Lynn MA — Thu, 14 Aug 2008 13:32:28 GMT

First Read [The platform says the Democratic Party backs Roe v. Wade, but it also notes that the party "strongly" supports a woman's decision to carry a pregnancy to term.]

Well, isn't that nice of the Democrats? What's the alternative, the Democrats running around the streets with their abortion tools stalking pregnant women?

First thoughts: Abortion politics

Pat Huntington NY — Thu, 14 Aug 2008 13:32:33 GMT

Wow! McCain is almost as old as Social Security! Too old to campaign, to old to be president.

First thoughts: Abortion politics

Pat, Boston, MA — Thu, 14 Aug 2008 13:33:51 GMT

"A Pew poll yesterday found Obama leading McCain by just three points -- 46%-43%. It’s a downward trend in the poll for the presumptive Democratic nominee, who led McCain by eight points in June and five in July." Sent by Domenico Montanaro
_________________

What is going on? What is the secret to Senator McCain's success?

I'm bewitched, bothered & bewildered.

For now anyway.

A friend of mine is driving his daughter back to Missouri to college; he's going to stay out there an extra week, find an Obama For President Headquarters, and volunteer to do whatever they need him to do.

Obama-2008

First thoughts: Abortion politics

John, MI — Thu, 14 Aug 2008 13:34:15 GMT

I wish for one day every tv station would refuse to air election ads....there are way too many of them and make me disappointed in both candidates more as they both just say the other is wrong without backing anything up.

Much rather see comical beer commercials.

First thoughts: Abortion politics

Clara Kansas City, MO — Thu, 14 Aug 2008 13:35:19 GMT

I yearn for the day when your headline will not be possible. Abortion has no place in politics and politics should stand away from abortion. That would be true separation of Church and State. This wedge weapon should be off the table forever, along with Gay Marriage. These are not political points; but personal rights - Life, Liberty and Pursuit of Happiness.

Let's move forward as a nation. No more regressive tactics.

First thoughts: Abortion politics

Nashville_fan — Thu, 14 Aug 2008 13:35:59 GMT

Why is First Read ignoring John McCain's conflict of interest in the case of Georgia and Russia?

Why is First Read giving John McCain a pass on his presumptuous and belligerent statements about Russia?

Why is First Read giving John McCain a pass on all of the lobbyists working with and running his campaign AFTER he claimed that his campaign was free of them?

P.S. To all of the people who feel that Senator Obama is not tough enough on foreign policy - here is what I think.

Once Senator Obama is sworn in as President of the United States, if the day ever comes when he comes to the American people and says "All diplomatic attempts have failed, America must go to war", I will believe him.

I won't have to wonder if my government is deceiving me. I won't have to wonder if the corporations that funded his campaign are going to profit from the conflict.

I would be able to send myself (a woman) and my daughters into battle, knowing what they are really fighting for - truth and justice - not pride and hubris.

First thoughts: Abortion politics

Class Warrior, D.C. — Thu, 14 Aug 2008 13:36:12 GMT

I think Obama will get more traction from the "putting the middle-class first" ad, because the middle class is feeling so stressed, pressed and threatened with extinction by REPUBLICAN administrations past and---possibly---future. Good move for Obama!

First thoughts: Abortion politics

Nancy Gorman, Union City CA — Thu, 14 Aug 2008 13:36:23 GMT

{ Are the Dems more open to pro-lifers than the GOP is to pro-choicers? }

The Dems are open to pro-lifers about a much as they are open to off-shore and Anwar drilling for oil. The Democrats will lie and cheat, but when all is done, they'll be four square behind abortions, and totally against drilling for oil. Being totally sold out to groups like NARAL and Big Environment groups will do that for you.

First thoughts: Abortion politics

Jasper Zeigler Jr - Montco Pennsylvania — Thu, 14 Aug 2008 13:36:37 GMT

The $ 64,000 ?

When is Lieberman going to wake up to the fact he isn't going to be motile in the GOP.

My bad.

Perhaps Lieberman enjoys being in a aberrance celebration.

First thoughts: Abortion politics

Diane from Illinois — Thu, 14 Aug 2008 13:38:35 GMT

Why is it so hard for Pro-Life advocates to understand that pro-Choice does NOT mean someone is PRO-abortion. It means they are pro-CHOICE. Let the decision be made by each individual.....NOT the crazy(supposedly holier than thou)right wingers such as the O'Reilly's, Hannity's and Pat Buchannen's of the world! Obama '08!

First thoughts: Abortion politics

Cheri, Scottsdale, AZ — Thu, 14 Aug 2008 13:41:03 GMT

Why is this stance so odd?? The Dems recognize this right as a woman's right to choose. Legally.No one is saying anyone HAS to get an abortion. I'm old enough to remember when Roe v Wade wasn't the law of the land. Women will do what they have to do....a painful decision that the govt has no business getting involved in but to make the option safe and affordable. I remember when "Doctors" mutilated women or worse yet...she did it herself with a coathanger.Is that where we want to go again??I don't think so. The fact is, the weathy women could fly off somewhere to get it done legally, while the poor or less fortunate were left to fend for themselves. And they did, often with tragic outcomes. The right professes to be "pro life"...where does that get you when BOTH the fetus AND the mother die!STAY OUT OF WOMEN'S PRIVATE LIVES! Keep this safe and legal, and if it is your choice NOT to do it, then DON'T. And good for you that you never had to make that gut wrenching decision.The Dems have it right...it's a choice, not some mandate handed down from the men in Washington that don't have a clue!

First thoughts: Abortion politics

McCain Pollster — Thu, 14 Aug 2008 13:41:07 GMT

First thoughts: Abortion politics

Ron Indiana — Thu, 14 Aug 2008 13:41:20 GMT

"Washington is broken" has been an Obama theme throughout the primaries. McOld has been is Washington for 26 years and he contributed to the government being broken. He can't run on that!!. This man has lost his moral bearings.

First thoughts: Abortion politics

A. Gore, Big Butt House, Tennessee — Thu, 14 Aug 2008 13:42:18 GMT

>>> "A Pew poll yesterday found Obama leading McCain by just three points -- 46%-43%. It’s a downward trend in the poll for the presumptive Democratic nominee, <<<

Yes, this happened to me too.

First thoughts: Abortion politics

Bee, NH — Thu, 14 Aug 2008 13:42:19 GMT

I guess McCain's internal is telling us how in effective his Ad has been. His negative has been going up with the independent as a result and he doesn't seems to have the solution that is needed.

Obama's Ad is about vision for the country.

First thoughts: Abortion politics

Joe Don, Topeka, KS — Thu, 14 Aug 2008 13:42:25 GMT

"Of course, if interest groups cry loud enough, that could be enough to break through the clutter."

In other words, national media have lost the ability to make their own responsible decisions about what to cover. That's been apparent from election coverage so far, but it's almost refreshing (in a tragic sort of way) to see you admit it.

First thoughts: Abortion politics

subgruvet, ok — Thu, 14 Aug 2008 13:44:18 GMT

Many democrats are essentially anti-abortion but are also responsible enough to say we're not going to allow female reproductive rights to be taken back to the 1950's as radicals in the GOP are trying to do. McBlinky would do that and betray Americans in his own age group through privatizing social security. Not everyone in this country was born to McBlinky's inheritance and privileges or has divorced their way upward towards more wealth as the old Keating Five senator from Arizona has done. Vote Obama.

First thoughts: Abortion politics

Nashville_fan — Thu, 14 Aug 2008 13:44:31 GMT

Please stop with the "poll games".

It's wearing me out.

You only feature close polls, and no matter how much Senator Obama is leading by, you always frame the poll as showing him having a problem.

When is the onus going to be on John McCain?

What about all the states that went for Bush last time that Obama is leading or tied in now?

Cover THE WHOLE STORE please! (Yeah, I know I'm wasting my breath, but I feel better.)

First thoughts: Abortion politics

Jeff, Houston — Thu, 14 Aug 2008 13:45:09 GMT

First thoughts: Abortion politics

BL, Cincinnati OH — Thu, 14 Aug 2008 13:46:52 GMT

John McCain’s answer to everything:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PdJUCU1UH2w

Other videos here:
http://my.barackobama.com/page/outreach/view/main/BLinCinti

First thoughts: Abortion politics

obamaramaramadingdong — Thu, 14 Aug 2008 13:50:22 GMT

Good move - maybe they should also point out that John McCain RECEIVES Social Security, even though he and his wife are very WEALTHY. Now that's the real disgrace.
Nashville_fan (Sent Thursday, August 14, 2008 9:29 AM

Please explain Nashville Fan why that's a disgrace? He paid his money into it. Why shouldn't he have his money? Again, I ask, too, when did it become a crime in this country to be wealthy? Do I wish I was? Yes. But, why do you, Nashville Fan, try to denigrate those who do?

First thoughts: Abortion politics

Houston — Thu, 14 Aug 2008 13:50:38 GMT

FirstRead: " And this comes after the Dems announced that Bob Casey Jr. will speak on the Tuesday night of the convention; his father famously was denied a speaking slot at the ’92 Dem convention because of his pro-life views."
---------------------------------------------------

That is NOT true. You're supposed to be journalists. Get your facts straight. Casey was denied a speaking slot because he refused to endorse Clinton:

http://www.realclearpolitics.com/cross_tabs/2008/08/the_myth_of_bob_caseys_1992_no.html

Like most of the corporate media, FirstRead is merely an echo chamber for rightwing lies. This one has been bouncing around for 16 years.

First thoughts: Abortion politics

Lyn — Thu, 14 Aug 2008 13:52:58 GMT

Obama received the endorsement of the Fire Fighters Union today :

Per CNN:Sen. Joe Biden will attend and address the convention on behalf of Obama.

Interesting

First thoughts: Abortion politics

banko — Thu, 14 Aug 2008 13:52:59 GMT

McCain the Straight Talk Express Re-Writes History on Social Security.
http://www.dailykos.com/story/2008/6/12/204230/248/931/535022

CNN reviews John McCain's Social Security comments
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4vSiWDvSbG4

McCain Targets Social Security in Deficit Cutting Plan
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UB8foG4hYD4&eurl

First thoughts: Abortion politics

juan, ft lauderdale, fl — Thu, 14 Aug 2008 13:56:39 GMT

What a sad commentary on this country that Rovian sleazy/negatives politics wins presidential elections instead on focing on issues and comparing/constrasting different positions w/o resorting to attack ads. Maybe that's why only about 50% of eligible voters bother to vote!

First thoughts: Abortion politics

Nashville_fan — Thu, 14 Aug 2008 14:00:16 GMT

"Please explain Nashville Fan why that's a disgrace? He paid his money into it. Why shouldn't he have his money? Again, I ask, too, when did it become a crime in this country to be wealthy? Do I wish I was? Yes. But, why do you, Nashville Fan, try to denigrate those who do?
obamaramaramadingdong
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
To answer simply - being wealthy is not the problem - accepting cash payments that you don't need from a program you think is disgraceful is.

Hope that makes things a little clearer for you.

Now maybe you can answer a question for me - is John McCain going to raise taxes to save Social Security or not? He says it's "on the table" but that he's not going to do it - so how does that work exactly?

P.S. Nice name! :)

First thoughts: Abortion politics

Luna Modul — Thu, 14 Aug 2008 14:03:01 GMT

Nashville_fan - Please stop with the "poll games".

It's wearing me out.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~

It's a free country Nf. If you're too much of a knucklehead to turn off your tv, that would be your problem.

First thoughts: Abortion politics

twocanpete — Thu, 14 Aug 2008 14:03:18 GMT

More double talk from the party who is about to nominate the king of double talk.
http://twocanpete.blogspot.com

First thoughts: Abortion politics

Nellcote — Thu, 14 Aug 2008 14:04:17 GMT

MYTH: Casey Sr. was denied a speaking roll at the convention because he was anti-abortion.

FACT: Casey Sr. was denied a speaking roll at the convention because he did NOT support Bill Clinton.

First thoughts: Abortion politics

Donna, Lincroft, NJ — Thu, 14 Aug 2008 14:06:45 GMT

Of course, McCain receives Social Security-we are all forced to pay into it; it is not a welfare check, nor is it means tested. It is a government mandated retirement account. And McCain referred to the way it is funded, and the fact that those paying today may not receive the benefits they are paying for, as a disgrace. Furthermore, allowing people to CHOSE to privatize some of their funds is wrong, why? Because we're too dumb to know how to invest our own money?

First thoughts: Abortion politics

Suburban Mom paying attention, IL — Thu, 14 Aug 2008 14:07:29 GMT

"Who would have guessed that the Democratic Party in 2008 would write a platform that was somewhat open to pro-lifers?"
------------------------------------------------------
Umm, this isn't a surprise to anyone that actually pays attention. The Democratic Party is not the Pro-ABORTION party; they are the pro-CHOICE party. A woman can choose whether or not to continue to carry a pregnancy.

I personally would not select abortion as an option for myself. That is my choice. Another woman may opt differently. That is her choice. The Democrats do not endorse abortion- they simply work to keep it as an option.

First thoughts: Abortion politics

eb, boston, ma — Thu, 14 Aug 2008 14:11:29 GMT

will someone please explain to me why mccain is wasting SO much money running ads in massachusetts right now? i mean, they're on constantly. it's massachusetts! what a waste.

First thoughts: Abortion politics

Kevin T. Perez — Thu, 14 Aug 2008 14:12:00 GMT

"his father famously was denied a speaking slot at the ’92 Dem convention because of his pro-life views"

Actually Casey, Sr. was denied a speaking slot because he wouldn't endorse Bill Clinton. Gov. John Breaux and Gov Howell Heflin and many other anti-choice speakers were at the Democratic Convention in 1992. The only reason the "Casey snub" is famous is because pundits keep repeating the Republican talking point.

First thoughts: Abortion politics

John Alexander,PA — Thu, 14 Aug 2008 14:14:23 GMT

If Oil and Nuclear power were so important then why did we not have an energy policy for the last seven and a half years?
Somebody wake the repubs up, they did not do anything in this area and now they want us to believe that the dems have been holding them back from doing something.
The repubs own inactivity on this issue should ring loud to anybody, the repubs have noting to offer and did nothing for the last few years anyway.

First thoughts: Abortion politics

Rodney Hopper, Waxahachie, TX — Thu, 14 Aug 2008 14:14:32 GMT

" But if you look at the presidential running mates, you might side with the GOP "
Um... hasn't Kaine, a pro-lifer, been put front and center as a front runner for Obama's VP? Nice job First Read, don't let us get too comfortable with the Dem platform.

I so love it when the media complains about itself!

I'd say the best thing the GOP can do with Social Security is pretend it doesn't exist until after November. Everytime they open their mouths about it, another red House seat opens up and an angel gets its wings.

McCain just can't get it together with his ad campaigns.

I wish Heather Wilson would have won that primary... she's sooooooooo boring. You can youtube her questioning of Mel Karmazin to get an idea of how out of the mainstream this lady is. Anyway, congratulations Udall, you're running a heck of a campaign.

http://www.rodneyhopper.com

First thoughts: Abortion politics

juan, ft lauderdale,fl — Thu, 14 Aug 2008 14:18:54 GMT

Mccain pollster- If democratic nominee was a white guy from a southern red and/or purple state it would be a landslide. It's called rascism, ignorance, stupidity, status quo, homophobia, ethnocentric, and only rich anglo/saxon white guys need to apply.

First thoughts: Abortion politics

banko — Thu, 14 Aug 2008 14:19:13 GMT

When is the MSM going report McLame corrupt past. Double Talk Express is one of the most dishonest and corrupt politicians in Washington.

John McCain. Lobbyists First.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9PWubZT1MPw&eurl

McCain: Still 'The One' For Lobbyists
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jgq5I8l6h7E&eurl

First thoughts: Abortion politics

Clark (Elkins WV) — Thu, 14 Aug 2008 14:19:52 GMT

Even a lead as little as 5% is a likely electoral college landslide. The last 2 elections were far less than half of that when it was said and done.

Another good state by state site is electoral-vote.com

First thoughts: Abortion politics

Benny, SFBayArea, California — Thu, 14 Aug 2008 14:21:56 GMT

Obama: Middle class first

Meaning: Enough with the tax breaks for the 1% of the wealthiest in this country. If you make less than $250,000 a year, your taxes go down.

McCain: Country First

Meaning: What John said to Cindy when she asked which would they plant first in their yard? a new shrub or a new tree?

First thoughts: Abortion politics

Mitchell Feldman, Vestal, NY — Thu, 14 Aug 2008 14:25:41 GMT

When the dust settles about McCain's overreaching statements about Georgia, both ill-informed and influenced by his chief foreign policy advisor Randy Scheunemann, who is on the payroll of the Georgian gov't., these polls will bounce back resoundingly. Remember there is a lag time. Also Americans not only don't want to get involved in a conflict between Russia and a former SSR (and both are ruled by autocrats with reckless and megalomaniacal tendencies) but they realize that our perceived (and real weakness) is a result of the foolhardy policies advanced by the Bush/McCain administration. McWar's bellicosity threatens to lead us down the primrose path of bankruptcy and defenselessness while making us the source of world-wide recrimination. The Roman Empire, we are not, nor should we be. But, a man who graduated 894/899 in his class at the Naval Academy, and who acts first and thinks later, might be just the president to lead this great nation down the certain road to final collapse.

I look forward to the critical and intelligent analysis of Barack Obama who has the ability to be the helmsman for this great nation and navigate through the choppy waters of international conflict, commanding the respect of foreign leaders and their peoples, with a greater prospect of success than any leader whom we have seen in many years.
Obama/I guess it will be Biden (not too shabby a choice) '08

First thoughts: Abortion politics

Philip, Wisconsin — Thu, 14 Aug 2008 14:28:14 GMT

That's ignorant, Clara,

Abortion is not a church issue. It is an issue of taking a human life. Gay marriage is a church issue, not a state issue. Churches should decide whom they will marry, the state should not decide who can marry. The state oversteps its authority on that one. On abortion, however, it is a legitimate discussion for the state to conduct. If abortion is murder, then it must not be permitted. If it is not, then it must not necessarily be allowed, but could be. My opinion is that it is the taking of a human life, therefore the government does have authority to do all they can to prevent it.

First thoughts: Abortion politics

Obama-Junkie, IL — Thu, 14 Aug 2008 14:30:45 GMT

The Democrats should not be afraid to discuss abortion. I just think the Democratic Party, including Obama, need to do a better job of explaining their views for being pro-choice.

Being pro-choice doesn't mean you are 100% for abortion. The Democrats, specifically Obama, need to show more compassion for pro-lifers with the narrative that they would push for more federal funding to increase the support and knowledge for adults to not consider abortion as well as increase funding for prenatal care and after-birth care.

The problem for most pro-lifers, much of whom are conservative Republicans, is that they look at the abortion the same way as they look at the "military" surge in Iraq. The surge is just one part of establishing a sovereign Iraqi Democracy. The goal of the abortion platform should be to reduce the number of abortions in America by having a comprehensive plan from prenatal care to after-birth care for those adults considering abortion, but keep the freedom choice which is an American trait.

First thoughts: Abortion politics

Dan — Thu, 14 Aug 2008 14:31:43 GMT

The latest polls have somewhat good news for both candidates, with McCain forced into a tie in TWO polls from Virginia but taking the lead in Nevada. Full roundup: http://campaigndiaries.com/2008/08/13/wednesday-polls-two-surveys-find-virginia-tied-bright-takes-lead-in-al-02/

First thoughts: Abortion politics

Dan — Thu, 14 Aug 2008 14:32:26 GMT

First thoughts: Abortion politics

C A, Tuscaloosa, AL — Thu, 14 Aug 2008 14:40:31 GMT

Jeff, Houston (Sent Thursday, August 14, 2008 9:45 AM)

Actually Jeff the polls are remaining about the same except for a slight increase for Obama on the national polls (going up from +4 to +6). New polls in PA show Obama up by +8 and in New Jersey Obama has increased his lead to +10. The polls in Michigan, Florida, etc., remain about the same.

McCain remains in the low 40s and can't get above that level in all the polls. So even with a fluctuation here and there the polls indicate that while voters are sure they do not want McCain as President there are some that are still hesitant about Obama. The fact that Obama remains in the high 40s and McCain in the low 40s indicates this race is Obama's to win or lose. It has absolutely nothing to do with McCain except for the fact he remains the voter's second choice behind Obama.

First thoughts: Abortion politics

the WORD — Thu, 14 Aug 2008 14:40:57 GMT

Polls are getting closer Dems. I thought you all said this was going to be a landslide? Maybe if you watched somthing other then Olbermanns show, you'd have a small clue as to why it may be a landslide, but for McCain.
----------------------------------------------
McCain pollster, you are right on. And how anyone can stomach that bozo Olbermann is beyond me.

- - - lol lol..Bozo?? The funny light-hearted clown? Right. It's obvious you don't a stomach or a brain if you can't say the same or not worse about Hannity, Beck, Limbaugh,Rove, & O'Reily

First thoughts: Abortion politics

larry kwart, Newark, DE — Thu, 14 Aug 2008 14:42:19 GMT

Casey didn't address the convention because he didn't approve of the platform. Why would they invite a speaker who has disdain for the election platform? He was not asked to speak specifically because of his views on abortion, but because he could not reconcile with hiw fellow dems enough to support the platform. Your description of the events is misleading.

First thoughts: Abortion politics

JoAnn, La Mirada, Ca. — Thu, 14 Aug 2008 14:42:56 GMT

Ok, as a Christian I must say that Republicans are not pro-life, they are anti abortion. Please someone listen.....If you are pro-life you are anti-abortion, anti-death penalty(Jesus Himself stopped an execution) and anti war. I am a Christian and Democrat. Jesus also said: feed the poor, the down traughten and also added it is harder to get to heaven if you are rich than to pass a camel through a needle. Christians should realize that one must look at the whole package, and not just one issue.

First thoughts: Abortion politics

New Independent — Thu, 14 Aug 2008 14:45:10 GMT

I'm Just Sayin' - It makes me crazy too! Especially since most of it is untrue and out and out lies, like that number 1 book for sale! How can Americans be so "stupid"?

First thoughts: Abortion politics

Fair Media? — Thu, 14 Aug 2008 14:46:42 GMT

What would the media do without polls? Oh, I know - stop existing.

The polls mean nothing this year - how many times do you guys need to be told that.

Cell phones make the polling process irrelevant - because line land phone polling only survey a limited and descending form of prospects.

You media guys - think this polling non - sense will sway voters or setup the voting outcome.

But you don't take into account the tremendous effort being made by Barack Obama and the 10's of millions that will be out to vote for him - which the pollsters are not even tapping.

You will be in for a big surprise -

Thank you and GOD BLESS AMERICA

First thoughts: Abortion politics

James C., Arizona — Thu, 14 Aug 2008 14:47:04 GMT

If the argument is over when "life" occurs, then those that are so "Pro-Life" in all their positions have never explained how to deal with the hundreds of thousands of embryos stored.

If an embryo is life, then shouldn't these folks be pushing to mandate that they be used. After all, we can't just freeze our children now can we. Your positions must be supportable and your candidates must be consistent. If an embryo is life - make that argument.

The earlier post pointed out that Democrats - most of the American people for that matter - are clearly anti-abortion.

But it is not our choice. We don't know the facts, each case, health... oh, this list goes on. This is between people, their beliefs, and their doctors.

Can we put restrictions -- yes.
Should we put restrictions -- yes.
Should their be out right prohibition -- NO.

Is this your decision? It could be, are you pregnant?

I also should note that the folks here who are so "Pro-Life" also seem to be the ones that take the same view as our current President. He now beleives that contraceptives are a form of abortion.

Safe and effective contraceptives -- including the morning after pill, early screenings and access, family planning and options.

Keep choice between a woman and her doctor!

First thoughts: Abortion politics

New Independent — Thu, 14 Aug 2008 14:47:45 GMT

What is going on? What is the secret to Senator McCain's success?

It's called "being willing to lie", people's ignorance or stupidity in believing said lies, and people are afraid of anyone who's different! Sad, but true.

First thoughts: Abortion politics

iowan — Thu, 14 Aug 2008 14:48:47 GMT

How many times now has the grumpy lil' feller been in Aspen? Lotta work for those 2300 votes.

First thoughts: Abortion politics

New Independent — Thu, 14 Aug 2008 14:49:14 GMT

Nashville_fan (Sent Thursday, August 14, 2008 9:35 AM)

Amen!

First thoughts: Abortion politics

MSierra, SF — Thu, 14 Aug 2008 14:51:08 GMT

John McCain, Country First...
Which country ? Georgia ? America ? or Charles Keating ?

Take a nap John, you've had a long morning and you're getting cranky