First thoughts: Biden walks it back

the Pajama Pundit — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 13:14:05 GMT

Considering how important Virginia is to Obama and his electoral strategy, does anyone think he'll step on his bus tour in the state by announcing his running mate while he’s there today and tomorrow?
*******************************************************

Yes. And he could name Jim Webb as his veep. Sweeeet.

http://thepajamapundit.com/

First thoughts: Biden walks it back

Just words, Just words — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 13:15:19 GMT

McCain now has a 9-point edge, 49 percent to 40 percent, over Obama on the critical question of who would be the best manager of the economy -- an issue nearly half of voters said was their top concern in the November 4 presidential election.

It doesnt matter the issueObama is clearly the (much) weaker candidate in this election. I cant believe the audacity of you far-left ideologues. You should have nominated the stronger candidate (Clinton), but you got greedy. I believe that we are going to start seeing the wheels come off of the Obama media-driven illusion express!

First thoughts: Biden walks it back

camie — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 13:17:07 GMT

leave biden alone!!!!!!! :-)
I think this whole pro-choice VP talk for McCain was definitely a fake and he wanted to get some media attention.
DNC Ad Hit McCain 4 $5million Blunder Pictures
http://sensico.wordpress.com/2008/08/19/dnc-ad-hit-mccain-4-5million-blunder/
or
http://sensico2.blogspot.com/2008/07/my-blogs.html

First thoughts: Biden walks it back

Tom, Winston-Salem, NC — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 13:18:44 GMT

Could this be all coincidence? With only a couple of days (at most!) to announce his choice for a running mate, Barack travels by bus this morning through Greensboro, NC; Martinsville, VA; having a Town Hall (already sold out) in Lynchburg, VA this evening.

Today is August 20. Yesterday (August 19) barackobamadotcom posted a 30-minute YouTube video of VA Gov. Tim Kaine talking in Manassas just this past Saturday. Watch the video and tell me whether this man could be President Obama's colleague, co-worker, and main adviser for the next eight years.

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

No matter who the running mate turns out to be, Tim Kaine outlines all the important information that we need to know right now ... especially those of us in the steamy southeast where the economy is doing a little better than in the rest of the country but people are still hurting. Where people are hoping against hope that America can be a better place.

First thoughts: Biden walks it back

Pat, Boston, MA — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 13:19:38 GMT

Congratulations Rachel Maddow on your well deserved program on MSNBC. For what it’s worth, here is my suggestion for a title:

“The MSNBC Rachel Maddow Tonight Show where Dick Cheney, Bill O’Reilly, Rush Limbaugh, Laura Ingraham, Sean Hannity, C. Krauthammer, Ann Coulter, Fred Barnes, Karl Rove, Newt Gingrich, John Gibson & Mary Matalin are not invited to set foot on my set, but Bill Moyers & Phil Donahue are. You know, normal thinking people."

Best of luck.

First thoughts: Biden walks it back

Paul Miller, Woodbridge, VA — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 13:20:56 GMT

Interesting idea. McCain may have no intention of picking a pro-choice running mate, but is just using this to generate a little buzz. Hmmm. That's actually a little bit impressive.

Of course it does further undercut the straight-shooter perception he still holds... among those not paying attention. He's not a straight-shooter as has become readily apparent. In fact, he's become far more disingenuous than most candidates - the best knowledge and experience that can be plagiarized from Wikipedia and Russian literature.

First thoughts: Biden walks it back

dl,Exeter, NH — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 13:21:38 GMT

This is getting recklessly immature... this marketing game is starting to feel "Britney Hilton esque"

Obama is hurting himself and making his choice feel more self serving than national serving.

It's not people's impatience...it's the sense that Obama's people don't realize he is not the center of the universe (and I am the biggest Obama supporter out there) but everyone knows that Biden is the right choice for the country...as 90% of the public seems to be really supportive of that.

Yet now we have kaine acting coy for his own career moves, Bayh tryibng to ignore and continue using this repair all the mistakes he made over the past 7 years, PUMA whackos reinforcingtheir whackoness, to hillary's detriment, and his own message getting screwwwed by his campaign's need to play up the celebrity hype for "marketing purposes" of a choice that should be cut and dry when you really look at "who will be the most effective VP?"

this is looking more and more like a decision based on who is best for Obama...rather than who is best for the country.

First thoughts: Biden walks it back

Endless wonderings — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 13:22:10 GMT

Did we get the results from cindy mccains entry in the biker babe contest yet? This is much more valid than mindless media speculation about whether the standard bearer for the anti woman party would pick a pro choice candidate. When pigs fly.

First thoughts: Biden walks it back

Jen, Mpls,Mn — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 13:23:20 GMT

I hope it's JOE BIDEN!!! I really didn't know who he was but during the primary debates I really liked what he had to say...and I would often said if it's not Barack I hope it's Biden. I hope Joe Biden is the VP pick!!!!

First thoughts: Biden walks it back

Ralph Malph — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 13:25:37 GMT

Mccain is up in a new poll...as predicted by me months ago barry is being found out for the smooth talking empty suit he is and mccain is being given a pass by the media because he was a POW POW POW POW POW POW POW POW POW POW POW

First thoughts: Biden walks it back

Nashville_fan — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 13:26:12 GMT

"The McCain campaign has very adroit of late of inserting itself into the media narrative at times when the assumption that Obama was going to own a week."
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
This is such an "insiders" statement - inserting itself into the media narrative?

I guess this is just a game like fantasy football these days, huh?

Good grief.

I guess that's why the score in the "punditocracy" is so different than the one out here in the real world . . . you all are living in a virtual reality.

Thing is if John McCain wins in your game, America loses in ours.

First thoughts: Biden walks it back

Pete - Albany, NY — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 13:27:20 GMT

On polling data...

I think the folks at Real Clear Politics are onto something here...

Don't just look at McCain vs. Obama...start looking at polling data with McCain, Obama, Barr and Nader.

http://www.realclearpolitics.com/epolls/2008/president/us/obama_vs_mccain_with_barr_nader-957.html#polls

First thoughts: Biden walks it back

Ron Indiana — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 13:28:47 GMT

McCain will not pick a pro-choice VP. Why? He would lose more Evangelical votes than he would pick up in the moderate/independent category.

Obama does know how to create suspense!! I've wanted Biden all along, mainly to do the VP duties of being a surrogate and hiting back. But...that said, Obama nation will support whomever Barack picks. He does need Virginia, but he has also said that geography was not a primary criteria. FR says that sometimes Biden drives Obama "nuts". I doubt there is a solid foundation for that statement. We will all know in a day or two.

Congratulations to Rachel Maddow for earning her own spot on MSNBC. An Olbemann/Maddow ticket will keep us progressive viewers. Now the obvious question...When will MSNBC dump racist Pat Buchanan and replace Joe? Do those two things and you will have a lineup worth watching...again.

First thoughts: Biden walks it back

Nashville_fan — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 13:28:58 GMT

" Obama can’t make many more mistakes and expect to win "
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
Huh?

What mistakes are we referring too exactly? Breathing? Talking about the issues? Raising money? Believing that the "faith forum" wasn't rigged?

Do tell.

First thoughts: Biden walks it back

Nj — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 13:29:09 GMT

VACATION for McCain???? What about Georgia???
Russia???

The Dems better BLAST that Old man for taking a vacation like they did to him.

And it better be Biden or Clarke.
Kaine and Bayh would be a disaster

First thoughts: Biden walks it back

Diane from Illinois — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 13:29:11 GMT

EVERYONE thinks it's going to be Joe Biden. I still don't. I think Biden is a loose cannon....opens mouth, inserts foot too many times; although I smile when I think of him going up against McCain or anyone he picks as VP. Biden would eat them up and spit them out like bad seeds, so THAT might be fun. I still think it's going to be Wes Clark. He's been off the radar for quite awhile now. No one is talking about him, but the Convention is leading toward a veterans recognition, isn't it? Actually, it's just guessing for all of us until the official word comes from the Obama camp. It really doesn't matter to me who it is. I'm voting for Obama, not the VP choice. It'll just be interesting to see who he picks! Obama '08!

First thoughts: Biden walks it back

Tim Roth, Jersey — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 13:29:13 GMT

Lets see, we have a fuel crisis, inflation is up, there's a war brewing in Georgia, ice bergs are melting, polar bears are sweating, and all we can talk about is who The Great Barack will pick for his VP. Is this country pathetic, or what?

First thoughts: Biden walks it back

emcd — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 13:29:21 GMT

"...does anyone think Biden would have been out golfing and smiling had he found out he wasn't the guy?"

If he isn't the guy, do you expect him to hole up and home and "cry in his beer". Really, you guys are such drama queens!

Why not report more substantive issues than this "american idol" version of political news?

First thoughts: Biden walks it back

mccain 08 — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 13:29:36 GMT

On Monday, Fox ran an hour bio of Obama. Last night, McCain was the focus. Both shows were quite balanced for each candidate. Tonight on CNN, they are also running a similar hour program about each. It will be interesting to see if CNN's programs are as balanced as Fox.

I do wish some here had watched the McCain program. it would have cleared up for you that McCain and his first wife were together for six years after his return. Some have protrayed here that he never even returned to her. You could have also seen the actual news footage of the fire on the Forrestal. You would have seen that a freak accident of a missile releasing from another part of the ship and hitting McCain's plane. You would have heard officials describing what happened. You would also seen him jump from the burning plane and roll through flames to escape. It might have helped some of you who like to say McCain was responsible for the incident realize he was in a plane and had nothing to do with a freak missile event.

Yesterday, somebody wrote here asking if there was really "proof" that McCain as a POW was subjected to torture. In the Fox program, you would have seen the footage of his capture. You would have seen footage of him barely able to speak at the Hanoi Hilton. You would have heard descriptions of others present tell of McCain's torture and confirming he chose not to go home when it was offered, that he honored the code that the first in would be the first out.

We all feel passion about our particular candidate. Feeling passion and zeal is wonderful. However, for those of you who continue to spread outright garbage about these points in McCain's life should be ashamed. As reps of Obama, you certainly don't put him in a very good light.

First thoughts: Biden walks it back

Rodney Hopper, Waxahachie, TX — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 13:30:06 GMT

Polls... polls... Who cares?

Once Biden is on the ticket and in full attack dog mode, we'll see a real break.

http://www.rodneyhopper.com

First thoughts: Biden walks it back

Jack R., Richmond VA — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 13:30:26 GMT

Virginia is a wet dream for Obama. It will be close, but Virginia remains Red.

First thoughts: Biden walks it back

A Charles, LA, CA — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 13:30:40 GMT

It's funny how when there's nothing to talk about, the polls suddenly have meaning.

How come Magoo can't crack 45% even when there's a foreign policy issue with Obama on vacation???

Just be patient, it's almost saturday.

First thoughts: Biden walks it back

MI Chick — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 13:30:50 GMT

McCain and Lieberman - "The New Odd Couple", or "Grumpiest Old Men".

I like Biden, but asthetically speaking, I don't see it. Obama and Kaine or even Obama and Clark look more like a "team" standing side by side. Kaine's got a good narrative and is friends with Obama (no more Clinton/Gore or Bush/Quayle drama, please), but is inexperienced. Clark is not a strong personality, but has a steller background.

Joe definately has the gravitas needed. It just looks weird to me, standing side by side. We all know that appearances count for a lot, as much as we hate to admit it.

As to all this "I'm not the guy" stuff - the candidates probably don't know yet - so yeah, he could be out golfing, trying to take his mind off it all.

Sorry, Dan Abrams (and Bobbi) - it's NOT HRC.
-----------------
Kudos to Rachel and her new show! It's Maddow Time!

BTW - what's happening to Dan?

First thoughts: Biden walks it back

C A, Tuscaloosda, AL — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 13:31:21 GMT

These polls are all over the place. The Zogby poll (released today) has McCain ahead of Obama by 5 points. Now how can Zogby have Mccain ahead by 5 while Obama remains ahead of McCain in all the other national polls (some taken yesterday) by 3 or 4. That is as much as a 9 - 10 point difference between polls. Something does not add up other then the fact you cannot rely on the polls.

Is the race close. I'm sure. Especially now that we apparently have some voters (the ignorant group) believing all the attacks McCain has laid on Obama over the last couple of weeks. Obama should still come out on top in November. But if he does not then I want to wish the country well for choosing another GWB (or worse). As Keith Olberman would say if this were to occur - Good Luck and Good Night.

First thoughts: Biden walks it back

The Real Truth!!! — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 13:31:30 GMT

I will be glad when the V.P. is selected so we can let them do some fighting for the DNC. I have to ask with Senator McCain and his cronies swinging at Senator Obama, where is the DNC. Why do we just sit back and want Senator Obama to do all of the fighting and when things become great, we want to join on the "Band Wagon". I guess that's the American way, we do not want to be blamed for anything!!!

First thoughts: Biden walks it back

Blake, Denver, CO — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 13:31:47 GMT

How can America say they trust McCain more with the Georgia situation, when, if he'd had his way and Georgia had become a member of Nato... we'd been in the midst of World War III. U.S., Israel, Western Europe vs. Russia, China, & Iran.

Are we really going to make the same mistake twice?

McCain is doing so well BECAUSE the media isn't holding him accountable for anything he says and does that reflects negatively. My only guess is they don't want to be labeled "liberal media"... well get over yourselves! You owe it to the American public to hold each candidate accountable to the highest degree.

First thoughts: Biden walks it back

Chris, Dorr, MI — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 13:31:55 GMT

Joe must go!
Hardball sucks with Chris back. Schuster is much better.
Matthews thinks he is the story and actually believes he can impact the outcome of this race. He acted like he needed to change his panties last night fawning over hilbilly and then insisting that this race is tied.
Nice to hear Racheal is getting her own show.
Is Dan Abrams still the programming director for msnbc?

First thoughts: Biden walks it back

Kevin, PA — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 13:31:58 GMT

I don't trust these polls one bit. They typically only poll likely voters. The Obama campaign has brought in droves of new voters that you can bet are not being polled. There are also those like myself that only have cell phone. The only people I know who would even answer a phone even if they don't know who it is would be my 65+ parents and and 80+ grandmother. Almost everyone else I know use cell phones only or screen their calls.

First thoughts: Biden walks it back

jerry/corpus christi texas — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 13:32:16 GMT

First thoughts: Biden walks it back

GDI in michigan — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 13:32:22 GMT

The only poll that matters takes place Nov 4th

First thoughts: Biden walks it back

Edison — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 13:32:28 GMT

Speculation drives reporters insane! this should be the headline news! Everyone will be in a frenzy all week long , until Obama makes a move! On the other hand, John McCain is like the old beat up can of spam that no one wants, and really does not care about, because the old can is outdated.!

First thoughts: Biden walks it back

sotiredofignorance — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 13:32:37 GMT

Do you suppose Senator Obama has any interest in Senator Daschle for Vice President? He has been an excellent spokesman too.

First thoughts: Biden walks it back

John, MI — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 13:33:52 GMT

Of course he is going to say that...honestly think about it, if he did slip and say yep I'm it, it would take all the wind from Obama and he would cry and whine until he got his way and probably change his pick just so he got to announce it.

Obama....more self serving than our current president.

First thoughts: Biden walks it back

Bev, LA — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 13:34:41 GMT

When the polls start calling cell phones maybe I'll listen. I know that half of the folks under 35 and a majority of the folks between 18 and 30 don't even have land lines. So those polled are older folks like me (64 and no land line)! Obama is more popular than anyone would guess. Do some real live polling and you'll get the difference! Obama 08!

First thoughts: Biden walks it back

Shake It Up — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 13:36:56 GMT

I watch with amazement the complete stupidity of the electorate in this country. To put and idiot like Bush in office not once, but twice, finally realize it was a pretty bad idea and the past 8 years have basically sucked, but then go ahead and choose someone else just like him if not worse for at least 4 more years is without a doubt is the best argument against evolution I've ever seen.

No species as dumb as the modern American public can possibly survive without divine intervention.

First thoughts: Biden walks it back

Mingpeke — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 13:39:26 GMT

I truly hope Obama's poll numbers are the result of his vacation and he comes out and keeps swinging. The worst thing for this nation would be 4 more years of McSame. I don't think my family could take it economically. People (real folks in the under 200k income level) are not better off and need to vote their economics. The Zogby poll saying people trust McCain more economically is scary. The fact is 8 years of coporate tax breaks have helped just who they were designed to help...Big Companies and the Rich. Our family makes about 50k a year and we are struggling, what about families making less? We aren't even on McCain's radar...Come on people lets get it together and not repeat 2004

GO OBAMA 2008

First thoughts: Biden walks it back

Alice, New York, NY — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 13:40:45 GMT

Forget swing states, political correctness, pleasing this constituency or that. Think of the VP as a stage prop to raise a presidential candidate's alpha cred. Biden is Obama's best bet. Tim Kaine in his 15 minutes looks too young and starry-eyed. Hillary is virile enough but brings along a gonzo, kibbitzing Bill Clinton. As for Evan Bayh, "male animal" is not the first thought that comes to mind. See "Alpha and the VP Pick" on AlphaWatch08.com

First thoughts: Biden walks it back

New Independent — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 13:41:05 GMT

BTW - what's happening to Dan?
MI Chick

I had the same question! Does anyone know where Dan Abrams is going? I like his show, The Verdict.

First thoughts: Biden walks it back

Drill Baby Drill — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 13:43:08 GMT

Congratulations to Rachel Maddow for earning her own spot on MSNBC. An Olbemann/Maddow ticket will keep us progressive viewers.
-----------------------------------------------------
And Fox News will continue to trounce MSNBC as it does every single day as long as shamelessly biased liberals like Maddow and Olbermann are on the air.

First thoughts: Biden walks it back

BJ, CA — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 13:44:49 GMT

Finally Rush Limbo says something that makes sense...Thanks for reporting this audacious twist of mental cornucopia.... Probably will be the last for this score...

First thoughts: Biden walks it back

Vote McCain — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 13:46:32 GMT

Why does everyone mention Bush's approval rating hurting McCain, but no one seems to suggest that Congress's approval rating, HALF of Bush's, is hurting Obama? Isn't he offering the same change they were unable to deliver?

First thoughts: Biden walks it back

Jack, Dallas — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 13:46:47 GMT

McCain 08, thanks for your post. I agree with you-if people want to attack McCain for his policy positions, it's one thing and is fair game. But to fabricate stories about his divorce (something he's been upfront about) and his POW experience only makes the Obamabots look ridiculous and weak.

First thoughts: Biden walks it back

padre — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 13:48:29 GMT

Shake it up....yes the American public is not too smart...they elected Clinton twice!

First thoughts: Biden walks it back

sotiredofignorance — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 13:49:27 GMT

mccain 08:

Fox News report on Obama/McCain balanced? Really, you believe that?

Thanks for my laugh of the day.

The cell phone thing is interesting. I have four kids, all use cells instead of landlines, none have been polled, all vote and are supporting Obama.

First thoughts: Biden walks it back

Houston — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 13:49:58 GMT

There's no big surprise about the polls. Obama has been under constant attack from the corporate media for months, which gets its talking points directly from the Republicon party. All that garbage about how Obama was flip-flopping on Iraq because Chuck Todd could tell from his "tone of voice" when Obama said he could refine his position after talking to the generals. And while the media distort and twist everything Obama says, they desperately try to downplay every stupid McCain gaffe (like his Sunnie vs. Shia ignorance) and ignore the lies he tells in campaign ads -- and sometimes they even praise his lies for showing how "tough" McCain is. (One of a few exceptions is Jonathan Alter. He should be commended for honestly stating what McCain is doing: "lying" about Obama).

The real question should be: with the well-financed GOP slime machine going full blast and the tame corporate media blanketing the country with attacks on Obama, why is McCain still losing?

First thoughts: Biden walks it back

Justin Garcia — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 13:49:59 GMT

forget the democratic party. I was a big time supporter until my girl gave it up to the Super delegates who elected the black man. HISPANIC Democrats for McCain if Hillary is not on the ticket.

First thoughts: Biden walks it back

JDOwens49OHIO — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 13:50:12 GMT

This tightening comes as no surprise for the reasons highlighted. The fact that McCain's is still in the low 40's though is quite telling. (glass ceiling anyone? He's managed to knock Obama down a few pegs as had to have been expected when someone is a on vacation and the weeks played out the way they did.

More than anything- WHAT OBAMA NEEDS TO DO?

-Dumb it down for the masses. (no words greater than 10 letters)

-Shorten answers

-But 2 very important thing-

Obama needs a physical classic , "I FEEL YOUR PAIN MOMENT"- This would do wonders- (preferably at a town Hall in Ohio, Penn, Iowa or Indiana). He literally NEEDS to show he connects with blue collar and people suffering hardships and needs to actually touch them!!!!!!!!!

2)- He needs to stop explaining what the evil GOP is doing in smearing him AND smear right back. IF YOU CAN'T MAKE TRULY DEVISTATING COMMERCIAL AND ATTACKS AGAINST MCCAIN WITH ALL THE AMMO THAT COMES OUT OF HIS OWN MOUTH- pLEEEEASE THE GUY IS A (BARELY) WALKING MISTAKE WAITING TO HAPPEN (one well done scare video using his own warped take on social security would be enough to scare the bejesus out of enough old people for example). A technique the GOP has perfected.

Yes overall tighten it up and be more human to the common Joe- speaking of Joe- he will help with this end of it.

Everything will be ok- if not I already have plans to leave the Country as the prospect of 4 more years of this nightmarish 'leadership' will undoubtedly push this country pass repair on so many levels. The Supreme court Justice Nominations alone are potential scary enough.

After a stolen election and the country in the absolute mess it's in are the American people really still this stupid?

First thoughts: Biden walks it back

Amy B Portland, ME — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 13:51:15 GMT

Shake It Up

You hit the nail on the head. And, it just goes to show that negative ads do work on low information voters. But I think its key that the people who paid attention early, are the ones who supported Obama. He was ahead for a long time. And these people (OK, us) are the ones who vote regardless of whether its a sunny day on election morning, or there is a long line at the polls, or whatever obstacle prevents people from voting. Obama supporters are the ones who offer to drive others to the polls, who register people who have never voted, who correct the false impressions of Obama our low information co-workers have, an so on. The energy is behind Obama. Weaker voters support McCain. Obama will win.

First thoughts: Biden walks it back

NObama — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 13:51:54 GMT

First thoughts: Biden walks it back

Top Dog, Washinton DC — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 13:52:02 GMT

Is the race close. I'm sure. Especially now that we apparently have some voters (the ignorant group) believing all the attacks McCain has laid on Obama over the last couple of weeks.

C A, Tuscaloosda, AL

Democrats can feel the race slipping away. At least the feeling is familiar to them, it's happened the last two prez elections.

And, real nice C A, blame it on the "Ignorant" people. Then you wonder why Obama and his ilk get tagged with the elitist label.

First thoughts: Biden walks it back

pw - — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 13:52:12 GMT

"Lets see, we have a fuel crisis, inflation is up, there's a war brewing in Georgia, ice bergs are melting, polar bears are sweating, and all we can talk about is who The Great Barack will pick for his VP. Is this country pathetic, or what? "

To me the issues are one and the same. Senator Obama offers solutions to these problems - - - NOW! Not twenty years from now - NOT solutions that will increase global warming - - NOT solutions that will increase financial losses to the middle class.

Real - possible - long lasting SOLUTIONS! The vice president will assist him in making those decision. NOW.

I just saw a report on Republicans for Obama. I believe that this is a great silent force - honest, good people who have taken a good long look at the last four years and do not like what they see. We, as a democratic and free nation, do not have and have NEVER had the right to attack another nation. As a democratic and free nation, we do not have and have NEVER had the right to police the world. As a democratic and free nation, we do not have and have NEVER had the right to sit in judgment of other nations.

It's about time we took a good long look at ourselves.

It's about time we gave wholehearted support to Senator Obama and put the warrior of Senator McCain back in the dark ages where it belongs.

By the way - - - I'm OLD (REALLY OLD), female, rural, and every other factor that is not supposed to support Senator Obama. The main difference is - - - I have a brain and I use it!

First thoughts: Biden walks it back

Nat Irvin, Louisville, KY — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 13:52:17 GMT

I Hope Obama goes for Tim Kaine. The two would make a great symbol of hope for America. Obama may lose with Kaine but it would be better to go out with your own team rather than playing it safe. Go for the fences.

First thoughts: Biden walks it back

mkd — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 13:54:25 GMT

ACK!!!!!!!!!

OBAMA CAN'T MAKE MANY MORE MISTAKES -- OBAMA???!!!

Are you KIDDING?! God in Heaven - McCain makes a gaffe a day -- it's just that most of the media won't report on old man sprinkles McCain's mistakes...

sad. I can not believe that there are enough people in this country dumb enough to vote for McCain....

First thoughts: Biden walks it back

Eric, Salinas, CA — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 13:54:34 GMT

The tightening of the polls just shows that the morons are more numerous than we first feared. Anyone who votes for "Warmonger" McCain isn't intelligent enough to vote because they do not pay attention to the facts.

Only Barack Obama can bring back honesty and integrity to the White House, something that's been missing the past 7+ years of "NeoNazi" Bush's tyranny.

Nice facelift of the First Read page. It's been a while since I last visited and I'm impressed with the new improved layout. I welcome Rachel Maddow to MSNBC tv and she'll blow away her competition on Fixed Noise!

Go Obama 08/12!

First thoughts: Biden walks it back

tr — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 13:54:39 GMT

I think McWAR is using it to make Romney look better to them, since the religious right doesn't like Romney's faith or the fact he was PRO CHOICE before he was PRO LIFE.......It makes the boring ROMNEY choice look better.

You can't believe a word MCWAR says, he is a PROVEN LIAR

I hope he goes LIEbermann though, he is HATED here in CT, HATED, he will ring the Dems out big time and with Obama's grond game and the Dem's registration numbers it is a sure victory for the Dems

First thoughts: Biden walks it back

Valerie,CT — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 13:55:05 GMT

To McCain 08, As an Obama supporter, I agree with you 100%. One error, McCain Reps also need to stop spreading garbage about Obama.
Asa side note, I still predict Hagel as Obama's VP choice.

First thoughts: Biden walks it back

tr — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 13:56:29 GMT

My picks are still
Gore!!!!!
or Clark, Sweitzer or Warner
or Sebelius or Web

First thoughts: Biden walks it back

C A, Tuscaloosa, AL — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 13:56:43 GMT

Just words, Just words (Sent Wednesday, August 20, 2008 9:15 AM)

Based on one poll Just Words. How about quoting the other polls that shows Obama still ahead nationally and on the economy.

First thoughts: Biden walks it back

Michael Buie, Raleigh, NC — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 13:56:46 GMT

I'd also like to congratulate Rachel Maddow. I have long enjoyed her on the various shows where she has appeared and look to her opinions with interest.

I thought she was the best sit-in of any I've seen for the shows where the principal host has been absent. Mika held her on with Morning Joe, as well. Except for when she attacked Gen. Wesley Clark for telling the truth about McCain, I think she has been fairly balanced.

MSNBC is smart to recognize Rachel's worth; when will they give Mika the slot she deserves?

First thoughts: Biden walks it back

DCortez, Houston, Texas — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 13:57:47 GMT

McCain’s negative onslaught - Domenico. If you think it's been an onslaught, you better stay in the shallow end of the pool,

First thoughts: Biden walks it back

Pat huntington NY — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 13:58:02 GMT

Obamabots sold us a bad bill of goods with their flawed candidate. Thanks for screwing it for the Dems when we should be sailing to victory this fall.

Hillary would've been way ahead in the polls again McCain.

This is what happens when the nominee doesn't actually represent the will of the people. Obama doesn't represent the will of the Democratic party because he benefitted from the screwed up Mich. and Fl. primaries.

Obama will lose big time in the Fall if he doesn't name Hillary his running mate.

I am a Democrat, who will still vote for his party, and I approve this message, because I am also a realist. The Obamabots are not!

First thoughts: Biden walks it back

rg — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 13:58:19 GMT

Did anyone notice there was a monkey running loose in Japan? Much more interesting than our Presedential candidates.

First thoughts: Biden walks it back

Jason — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 13:58:46 GMT

MCCain up by 5 today!!!

Democrat in FLA for McCain

First thoughts: Biden walks it back

Les Reker — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 13:59:02 GMT

I support Barack Obama. Period.

First thoughts: Biden walks it back

Steven, Highlands Ranch, CO — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 14:00:17 GMT

Here's the thing about these polls...

I have never heard of anyone getting polled on their cell phone. I long ago abandoned my landlines for just a cell phone. Perhaps they are missing a very large chunk of America by only polling people from the phone book or however they do it.

First thoughts: Biden walks it back

Pete - Albany, NY — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 14:00:51 GMT

"McCain now has a 9-point edge, 49 percent to 40 percent, over Obama on the critical question of who would be the best manager of the economy -- an issue nearly half of voters said was their top concern in the November 4 presidential election."

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Not sure where you pulled this "data" from considering two articles back talks about Obama still leading on economy.

First thoughts: Biden walks it back

Kit — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 14:01:56 GMT

LOLOL! About the faith forum being rigged conspiracy. You Obamacons can't accept that your guy is an empty suit--there's always a conspiracy lurking--something or someone to blame a poor performace by the Messiah on. Not racism this time, now it's cheating. Obama is the one tryint to defraud this country..he's the cheat! Nothing real or american about the guy.

Hillary supporter for McCain

First thoughts: Biden walks it back

Steven, Highlands Ranch, CO — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 14:02:45 GMT

NObama, thank you for that, even tho we disagree on candidates, there is zero tolerance for jerry's comments.

First thoughts: Biden walks it back

Ramesh Manghirmalani, Danville, California — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 14:02:46 GMT

All the signs pointed to the fact that J. Biden was emerging Obama’s likely VP pick- very good strategic Choice. Joe liberman will be very bad choice. Mr. Obama can for my vote if Joe Liberman is VP nominee

First thoughts: Biden walks it back

C A, Tuscaloosa, AL — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 14:04:27 GMT

Top Dog, Washinton DC (Sent Wednesday, August 20, 2008 9:52 AM)

That's easy to blame it on the ignorant people Top Dog. They are the same people who put GWB into office twice. And lokk what it has gotten them. It is ignorance to support a candidate because you would rather barbeque withthe person or because the person gets elected by attacking his/her opponent rather than on the merits of their own qualifications, skills and leadership abilities. McCain is shallow. I guess people are drawn to shallow candidates. One comes along with half a brain and the ignorant voters turn him/her away. Yes, it is easy to blame it on ignorant voters. Especially when 9% say they are uncomfortable voting for a Black candidate. I suppose if Jesus Christ were to visit and run for Presdient and He happened to be Black those same 9%+ ignorant racist voters would turn him away as well.

First thoughts: Biden walks it back

Danny NC — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 14:05:34 GMT

Have Americans gone insane!!! Wake up and quit listening to lies and smears. Our country needs to go in a new direction now!!!. I believe the fear mongers have brain washed our nation. If McCain is elected, our country and standing in the world is going to continue to crumble.

First thoughts: Biden walks it back

Sean — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 14:06:41 GMT

I don't get why he'd pick Biden. The pundits claim that Biden polls well with blue-collars, white men, etc - but he didn't poll well in the primary, period! Plus the comparisons will be endless to another senator that got 18 Million votes.

First thoughts: Biden walks it back

Gigi, Westchester, NY — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 14:07:20 GMT

Ummmm! Obama goes vacation and McDingdong goes up in the polls. Enjoy!!! It won't last for long, wait until the real polls come out after labor day. All the new register voters.

Sorry, Obama will win, so get use to it.

First thoughts: Biden walks it back

Cynthia, Philly PA — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 14:08:00 GMT

Woohoo! Mccain is up in the polls! I knew that once America saw that Obama was a liberal and black that they would come running back to the safety of the republican party who will keep them safe and tax free
jerry/corpus christi texas (Sent Wednesday, August 20, 2008 9:32 AM)

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Good God Man (or woman) get a hold of yourself. Republican party is a "safe" place for those who want to get away from "blacks and liberals"??? Is the Republican party only for whites and neocons? By your post...I would assume so. Just how did the Repugs keep us safe? By killing over 4,000? Unfortunately your chicken hawk behind was not one of them. Go away creep, go back to your neocon blogs that want you. We do not want your kind on this blog. This blog is for intelligent opinions only.

First thoughts: Biden walks it back

donna — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 14:08:07 GMT

Thank G-D Joe is back!

****

Sometimes I think First Read looks to push our buttons, as in being the tail which has the power to wag the dog. Yesterday Mark used the word 'stunt' in reference to Obama's 2,000,000 donor. Today the MSM has the Zogby polls with a 5 point McCain lead on it's front page.

I hate manipulators. To manipulate others is a purely sociopathic behavior. As Senator Chuck Hagel has said, get off that.

First thoughts: Biden walks it back

Earl Grey, Devonshire — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 14:08:23 GMT

Resurrect the corpse of Neville Chamberlain to run as Osama's comical twin.