First thoughts: Obama's biggest speech

donna — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 13:56:33 GMT

Chuck Todd has asked, can Joe Biden be number 2?

Did anybody else check out the initial exchange between Barack, and Joe after his surprise appearance? Barack complimented him saying, "Joe, that was unbelievable". Joe said something that caused Obama to reassure him, and said, "No, it was unbelievable", but Joe was still apologetic. Finally Obama firmly took his running mate by the shoulders, and tried to look him in the eye, (but Biden's head was lowered). His head gestured no Joe, you're wrong, while saying, "It was a great speech", (and again), "It was a great speech"; deadly seriously trying to convince him that he really meant it. It was important to Barack that Biden believe he had done a good job, because he had.

As the crowd roared, Joe said, "They love you man…….. they love you”. Apparently, Joe Biden does too.

Can Joe be number 2? Joe is number 2, and he, and his family are grateful for it.

Democrats, we have lift off!

First thoughts: Obama's biggest speech

Chuck, NY — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 13:56:49 GMT

Third night thoughts

Last night was the calm before the storm in my view. There were enough tidbits and sound bites to keep us glued for tonight. I’m being honest with myself when I say Barack will win or lose this election with his speech tonight. Go get ‘em.

Speaking of storm…God forbid, but won’t it be the ultimate ‘gotcha’ if Hurricane Gustav hits the Gulf Coast an wreaks havoc on both the GOP and the folks in the area next week during the GOP convention?

I wish I had gotten home from work in time to witness the moment when it became official for Barack’s nomination. I understand everyone’s moments of tears if they had them.

Speaking of tears, did you see it coming when Beau Biden talked about the tragic death of his mom and sister, and Joe Biden almost declining to take the oath of office? I got teary-eyed and I had never heard that story before.

I watched more of the convention’s activities on C-Span than cable news outlets. I wanted to hear the speeches.

As a retired Navy officer, I choked up when the film piece saluting our veterans was played.

Is it going to be the standard dress code for Joe & Barack to wear opposing red and blue ties?

Since when did Chuck Todd become ‘Mr. Wet Blanket’? Stop trying to assume the mantle of Tim Russert. And another thing, will Andrea Mitchell please let go of the Clinton’s? Geez, enough already.

We have “yes we can” and “change you can believe in”. Will Barack give us a new line on the anniversary of Dr. King’s “I have a dream” moniker?

First thoughts: Obama's biggest speech

Dan, New York, NY — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 13:56:50 GMT

Best speech you didn't hear last night:

http://strategy08.wordpress.com/2008/08/28/the-best-speech-you-didnt-hear-john-kerry/

First thoughts: Obama's biggest speech

jess, Iowa — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 13:57:28 GMT

MCCAIN AND KATRINA

McCain Voted Against a Commission to Examine Government Response to Katrina.
In 2005, McCain voted against creating a congressional commission to examine the federal, state and local response to Hurricane Katrina in the Gulf Region. Senators Obama and Clinton both voted in favor of creating the commission. The motion failed 44-54. [H.R. 2862, Vote #229, 9/14/2005]

McCain Again Voted Against Katrina Commission in 2006.
In 2006, McCain again voted against establishing a commission to investigate the response to Hurricane Katrina, including the federal government’s role and the impact of the disaster. Both Senators Obama and Clinton voted in favor of the commission. The motion failed 44-53. [H.R. 4297, Vote #6, 2/2/2006]

McCain Voted Against Investigating Waste, Fraud, and Abuse.
In 2005, McCain voted against an amendment that would establish a committee to investigate waste, fraud and abuse in the awarding contracts in Iraq and Afghanistan, and for the reconstruction after hurricanes Katrina and Rita. The amendment failed 44-54. [HR 3058, Vote #259, 10/19/05; HR 2862, Vote #228, 9/14/05; S 1042, Vote #316, 11/10/05; S 2766, Vote #176, 6/20/06]

McCain Voted Against Expanding Unemployment Benefits in Wake of Katrina.
In 2005, just two weeks after Hurricane Katrina devastated the Gulf Coast, McCain voted against allowing up to 52 weeks of unemployment benefits to an individual as a result of a major disaster under the Disaster Unemployment Assistance Program. Both Senators Obama and Clinton voted in favor of extending the benefits. The motion failed 43-52. [H.R. 2862, Vote #234, 9/15/2005]

McCain Voted Against Granting Katrina Victims Access to Medicaid.
In 2005, McCain voted against granting access to Medicaid to victims of Hurricane Katrina for up to five months. The amendment would also provide full federal funding for Medicaid in Louisiana, Mississippi and Alabama for up to one year and provide $800 million to compensate providers caring for Katrina evacuees. Both Senators Obama and Clinton voted in favor of assisting the Katrina victims. [S. 1932, Vote #285, 11/3/2005]

39 Senators Visited Post-Katrina New Orleans Before McCain. According to The Hill and the Associated Press, 39 senators had visited Post-Katrina New Orleans before John McCain and Lindsey Graham visited in March of 2006. [The Hill, 3/8/06; Associated Press, 3/10/06]

McCain Only Visited New Orleans After A Critical Article Was Published In The Hill.
On March 8, 2006, The Hill wrote, "Not visiting the sites of one of the nation’s worst natural disasters could prove to be a political liability."The paper added that McCain was among six senators who were considering running for president who had "found time to visit Iowa, New Hampshire or South Carolina - key states in the 2008 primary races" but not New Orleans. The Associated Press noted the report when McCain made his first trip to the region two days later. [The Hill, 3/8/06; Associated Press, 3/10/06]

First thoughts: Obama's biggest speech

aleese — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 13:57:32 GMT

Of the prime time speeches, John Kerry's was the most lucidly powerful. He articulated with crystal clarity how shamefully arrogant, divisive, and dishonest the neocons are. Kerry pulled his passionate argument for change, from up out of his toes with the forces that only the greatest of conviction can summon. He meant that thing. It might be 4 years too late for his candidacy, but he's a true patriot, and proven hero, to have offered it for Obama, and Biden. He told those bast***s off in a way that they have deserved for so long. He must have been writing that dressing down for the last four years.

THANK YOU SENATOR KERRY!!

First thoughts: Obama's biggest speech

Biased — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 13:58:05 GMT

Hmm no mention of the Gesopo tactics in Denver on one of your own brothers?
******************************************************
Police in Denver arrested an ABC News producer today as he and a camera crew were attempting to take pictures on a public sidewalk of Democratic Senators and VIP donors leaving a private meeting at the Brown's Palace Hotel.

Police in Denver arrested an ABC News producer today as he and a camera crew were attempting to take pictures on a public sidewalk of Democratic Senators and VIP donors leaving a private meeting at the Brown's Palace Hotel.
Police on the scene refused to tell ABC lawyers the charges against the producer, Asa Eslocker, who works with the ABC News investigative unit.

A police official later told lawyers for ABC News that Eslocker is being charged with trespass, interference, and failure to follow a lawful order. He also said the arrest followed a signed complaint from the Brown Palace Hotel.

Eslocker was put in handcuffs and loaded in the back of a police van which headed for a nearby police station.

First thoughts: Obama's biggest speech

Ron Indiana — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 13:59:07 GMT

There are many similarities between Bill Clinton and Barack Obama. Perhaps one of the most important similarities is that they both have a vision for American and can articulate that vision. Neither Bush had a vision, and MeCain can't remember what he saw yesterday.

First thoughts: Obama's biggest speech

Biased — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 13:59:18 GMT

Obama-Says nothing better then anyone else.

First thoughts: Obama's biggest speech

Ted, Kalamazoo MI — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 13:59:38 GMT

I'd be interested to see how a woman VP would work out for McCain. Given his record on women's issues, I would call it a publicity ploy more than anything else. I don't see it happening, however. Really I think any of those top 3 have significant weaknesses that Biden can exploit and hammer home.

First thoughts: Obama's biggest speech

BJ, CA — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 14:00:34 GMT

Mother Nature against the GOP?

Yeah and nobody prayed for it...
Wrong is wrong no matter how right they say they are..

John McCain..liar now..screw you later..and later and later and later

First thoughts: Obama's biggest speech

the Pajama Pundit — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 14:00:37 GMT

Mother Nature does not look like a political ally as the possibility of a serious hurricane bearing down on the US coast during the GOP convention. There's no way of speculating about what it means other than to say -- it is what it is, and nobody can do anything about it other than prepare citizens for the storm. But the last thing McCain needs is a reminder of Hurricane Katrina, whose three-year anniversary comes tomorrow.
******************************************************

Talk about a split-screen news day... one side with Hurricane coverage, the other with Republicans at their convention. Not great for PR.

http://thepajamapundit.com/

First thoughts: Obama's biggest speech

C A, Tuscaloosa, AL — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 14:01:48 GMT

From a Previous Thread: Service Not Enough

Thanks To Some Bloggers

Thanks for some of your comments about the qualifications comment posted yesterday. I thought many of you had been asking the same question in your minds so I thought I would ask here for the group. I would do the same regarding some questions I may have about Obama for those supporting McCain if they would express a little more than just generic and over-generalized attacks against Obama (as I admit some Obama supporters do with McCain). Because few are really looking deeper into both of these men and what it takes to be a leader while hovering above the surface along with the pundits with their over-generalized and superficial descriptions of the same. But I am an Obama supporter so I really don’t want to give them any legitimate ammunition, smile.

What it all comes down to is judgment. We all know that. And if we don’t we should. Believe me, Presidents had better hope they appoint people who know more than they do in the areas of Defense, Treasury, State, EPA, HUD, Attorney General, OMB, etc., And they better appoint people whose priority is honesty. Why do you think that Bush (and McCain) state they will rely on what Patreaus tells them regarding withdrawing troops from Iraq. In effect what they are doing is basing their decisions on the expertise of Patreaus because he is the expert. He has the knowledge whether you agree with Patreaus or not. McCain can't claim he will be a better Commander & Chief then Obama when he himself states he will depend on the generals on the ground, as has Bush and as would Obama. The job of the President is to be sure and appoint Generals, Ambassadors, Foreign Policy Advisors and Department Heads who are better and brighter than they are on the issues at hand, whether in foreign policy or domestic policy . And then manage these people well by letting them do their jobs without threatening to fire them if they disagree with you or go against some self-serving intent or misguided direction of your Administration. The President’s job is also to be in touch with, and cognizant of, the feelings of the American people, and to let their Generals, Ambassadors, Advisors and Department Heads know the mood of the American people and to take into account the direction their employers (the American people) want to go. And their first job requirement should be honesty for that is the priority that the American people want in each and every one of these positions whether it is felt they can handle the truth or not.

Any person who thinks that a President should have more knowledge and experience than the experts they appoint to handle these specific policies and issues are fooling themselves. There is no such person. We are all still learning, even Obama and McCain. We never stop learning. “And we are what our experiences make us”. McCain does have more "life" experiences then Obama. If his supporters would qualify his greater experience as just that I would agree. And if they would qualify their concerns about Obama as being young with fewer life experiences I would understand that concern as well. But then they would need to understand that our life experiences do not necessarily imbed within us good judgment. Often times our life experiences hurt our judgment or engrain within us certain boundaries or mistaken beliefs that damage our judgment. And as we grow older (I am not holding this against McCain but it is true) our judgment tends to narrow, to become more rigid and black & white. The free flowing and out-of-the box type of thinking that is a benefit of our youth becomes inhabited by the years of our life experiences that shape who and what we are. It leads us to more blank yes’s and no’s and fewer maybes.

I am just tired of the generic ill-labeled experience argument in McCain's favor. It is not valid except to say that McCain does have more "life" experiences then Obama. But that does not mean that his experiences have allowed him to develop the best of judgments.

First thoughts: Obama's biggest speech

Mr. Eko — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 14:02:42 GMT

"As if the Republican Party didn't have enough going against them, Mother Nature does not look like a political ally as the possibility of a serious hurricane bearing down on the US coast during the GOP convention."
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^

Ha! How ironic, wasn't there some conservative preacher who was praying last week for God to make it rain during Obama's acceptance speech? Ooops, looks like God is going BLUE this year.

First thoughts: Obama's biggest speech

Carl Conoce, Santa Barbara CA — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 14:03:12 GMT

Who is Barack Obama's stand in? Urkel, right?

First thoughts: Obama's biggest speech

MIA in Miami — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 14:03:57 GMT

Boy, I would like to be there!

MSNBC execs: Do I have to suffer another week while Keith O. is covering that BORING Repub convention? I don't know why he would want to cover it, no one will be there besides McSurge having a "debate" with himself...LOL

First thoughts: Obama's biggest speech

Marci, Ann Arbor, MI — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 14:05:17 GMT

Chuck -
You forgot to mention that McCain was also considered for VP by Kerry in '04.

First thoughts: Obama's biggest speech

Ralph Malph — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 14:06:12 GMT

It is ironic that on the same day the bushleague will be on display will be about the same time as Gustaf will make landfall...another reminder of the wilfull ignorance and outright incompetence of many bush appointees..."You are doing a heckava job ignoring these people brownie" will go down in infamy

First thoughts: Obama's biggest speech

The Illiad — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 14:06:49 GMT

FR -- As if the Republican Party didn't have enough going against them, Mother Nature does not look like a political ally --

Yes, not only is the MSM against the Republicans, but now, it appears the Gods of Storms are against the Republicans too. Barack Obama will stand in front of his Roman Columns tonight and order the Gods to rain out the evil Republicans.

First thoughts: Obama's biggest speech

Eric, Salinas, CA — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 14:06:54 GMT

Hah Hah Hah, looks like the clueless evangelical christian lunatic fringe have been forsaken by their false god as Mother Nature reigns supreme as the goddess of good weather for Barack's speech tonight outdoors.

It won't matter what clueless fool "Bush Hugger" McCain picks as the repugnant ones are the losing ticket this fall. No matter how many dirty tricks they play these agents of Satan will be sent back to their political hades where they can rightfully burn in their own lies and hubris.

The Democratic Party has proven that we are now united, fired up and ready to go! The worst nightmare of the repugnant ones has happened and they're running scared.

Only Obama/Biden will bring honesty and integrity back to the White House!

Go Obama/Biden 08/12!

First thoughts: Obama's biggest speech

Ted, Boston, MA — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 14:07:01 GMT

From techno at PalinforVP says it best:

It's down to the nitty-gritty. Many ask who is McCain going to select as a running mate? Perhaps the better question to ask is why McCain would select an individual in the first place. I think, politically speaking, in a competitive race, it boils down to only one factor: 1) Who will ensure my victory or short of that who gives me the best chance to win the election?--that is the number one and only consideration-choosing someone who can take over if you die prematurely is all academic.The facts are McCain has fought many elections. If Tiger Woods (he's too young) could win him an election he's pick him. If Michelle Malkin would ensure him success he'd pick her, if Mitt Romney would do it for him--he'd pick him. Let's get down to brass tacks--to win an American presidential election not only should you strive to gather more votes than your opponent but what you must do is win enough states to get to 270 electoral votes. That's the bottom line. Now here's how any professional politician would look at the situation. I've got a base of support that allows me to bank on winning the electoral votes in a given state (eg for Republicans Texas and for Democrats California)by a comfortable margin (more than 5%).In McCain's case many of these 'safe' states are located in the Deep South and the non-coastal West. Frankly, he doesn't have to do much to keep these states in his column: by saying he's pro-life, supports the 2nd amendment, that he believes in a strong America with a strong military and that he promotes individual enterprise and lower taxes is a winning message every single time; that is unless he appears horribly weak or too liberal or if he does something to piss enough of them off so they won't support him-now the dirty little secret in politics is that you're not so worried that they are going to vote for your opponent-the majority of them have such deep-seated core beliefs that would prevent this-but your campaign must do enough to get them to work for your campaign ENTHUSIASTICALLY and to get them to the polls.Choosing a pro-choice running mate is a high-risk strategy for McCain. Abortion shouldn't be such a big issue in 2008 but the facts are that it still is. If McCain did go with a PC running mate he is telling the world his support is so solid in his 'safe' states that he could afford to lose a sizeable segment of support there and still eke out a slight victory.That is what liberal to moderate Republicans are telling McCain. However the polls consistently, to McCain's chagrin, have not reflected this sentiment. Reports are that there are 60-70m evangelicals/devout Christians in the USA-the majority who vote Republican-folks that's a hell of lot of people to offend. Just imagine if 10% of evangelicals in those 'safe' states stayed home-you get the picture--you don't have to be a rocket scientist to figure out what will happen--to arrogantly buck these figures you have to be a complete idiot and I don't think McCain is an idiot. So folks I think that rules out any pro-choicers such as Ridge, Giuliani, Lieberman. On the other hand Mccain knows he must 'reach out' and win enough competitive states to prevail-and to win them he must TAILOR his message towards, but always bearing in mind not to dilute the conservative message so much that he offends his base in big numbers; on the surface Huckabee would be a great choice-he would appear to firm up the evangelical vote--but to what extent would he help McCain win in a competitive less conservative or evangelical state? If McCain only is concerned about that he should pick Huckabee-at least if he loses he can always boast that he preserved the Republican electoral college base for the next Republican presidential candidate. But if his goal is to attract more rational, fiscal or libertarian conservatives and bleed off a a sizeable amount of the PUMA's Huckabee is not his guy. And folks every election is different. In 2008 the PUMA factor(disgruntled Hillary Clinton supporters) is huge. If McCain wants to win he knows that he must bleed off enough of them--he may decide that he can do it by personal persuasion, his gravitas or by ads and whoever he picks as VP (male vs female) is irrelevant in this regard but as I have said time and time again who he picks as VP will go a long way to show the world that he wants their vote-will give him short-term credibility with them until he can seal the deal. Choosing Pawlenty is a safe pick to keep the base in line, but complaining that your wife would rather go fishing than have sex with you is no way to attract disenchanted 'feminists' or women who have been sexually abused by a man. By also selecting the innocuous, boring, evangelical Pawlenty, Mccain is saying 'I playing the game to keep it close-no mistakes-I'll capitalize when Obama and Biden screw up-I'll let my surrogates-Carly Fiorina, Meg Whitman for example, head the outreach campaign to Clinton supporters and hope it works. Thus McCain is saying despite the short-term blowback of not choosing a female running mate I am not going to sacrifice my VP pick to accomplish a narrow goal. Same goes if he picks Mitt Romney. Romney appears to be a great choice on the surface but surveys have consistently shown that he has the highest negatives (45-50%)among the VP candidates.Unfortunately he is a polarizing figure. You either love him or hate him. In other words the votes he gains for you in one section of the country he will lose for you in another region of the country. For that reason alone he is not a viable option. At least Pawlenty might win you a few more votes and not lose you any. Now the only reason McCain would choose any other male such as Cantor would be to win a specific state (eg Virginia) or garner the votes of a certain segment of the popn (eg Jewish voters). This will be considered a great strategy if it works but one that will be subject to great criticism if it doesn't work. Now finally if McCain chooses a female he is openly admitting that he needs the PUMA vote, that he is actively going to pursue it and that he has 'good faith' intentions. Choosing Palin, Hutchison, Fiorina, or Whitman would accomplish this. in addition it would offer up other opportunities to win the vote of female moderate independents who may identify with with a female VP. If McCain doesn't choose a female in this political climate what he is essentially saying is that no female in the Republican orbit is capable of helping me to win the election; there is no upside and may be plenty of downside such as being accused of pandering or appointing a 'token' or 'trophy' candidate. What he is also showing that he doesn't recognize an opportunity when it is staring him right in the face and folks do you really want somebody to be president that can be so dense? Unless of course if the alternative is much worse.

First thoughts: Obama's biggest speech

pedestrian — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 14:07:24 GMT

I've heard that MSNBC didn't bother to show it, so maybe you guys were unaware that John Kerry's speech was the best of the convention thus far.

Note to those who don't need talking heads to explain what's going on: C-SPAN has uninterrupted coverage of the convention.

First thoughts: Obama's biggest speech

Rodney Hopper, Waxahachie, TX — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 14:07:52 GMT

No split screen day... Don't try to make it bigger than it is NBC. Anybody they throw up there will be anti-climactic compared to the speech tonight.

That being said, we could be looking at split-screen week next week if Gustav hit landfall and hits it hard.

I'd hate to see more suffering, but for the RNC to be pre-empted by Hurricane coverage... that would hurt.

Unless it's Monday, Bush-Cheney night.

http://www.rodneyhopper.com

First thoughts: Obama's biggest speech

Cindy Lou, TX — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 14:08:28 GMT

For these three days of the convention, I have never been prouder of my country and the Democratic Party. Michelle Obama did a masterful job of "humanizing" her husband (although I still wonder why the MSM believed Obama's humanity had to be proven). Hillary Clinton was an OUTSTANDING advocate for her party and for Obama. I was truly touched and inspired by her willingness to put aside her own dream for the greater good of the party. Bravo. Bill is a brilliant politician, and I appreciated his ringing endorsement of Obama. And I love Joe Biden's down-home, family-oriented words.

What an historic moment. My party--the Democratic Party--is the first major party to nominate an African American as its leader. Only in America is this story possible.

After the summer of hate spurred by the MSM and McCain, I remember the hope and inspiration Obama engenders. Suddenly last night, I remembered the movement for change we can believe in.

I am proud to be an American and a Democrat today. God bless America!

First thoughts: Obama's biggest speech

Matt — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 14:09:27 GMT

Are you all really proud of your work at MSNBC? Do you think Tim Russert would be proud? Do the columns in Denver matter? (Bush used them before in 2004 or that McCain's official Senate portrait has him posed among... wait for it... Greek columns.) Are you capable of doing anything other than amplifying the latest McCain character assassination ad? Are there any issues in the election, or is it just a game as Chris Matthews seems to suggest daily? Is there a line Pat Buchanan might cross that would make you give up on his commentary? Or can he just say literally any ridiculous and offensive thing that comes into his addled mind?

As Jon Stewart said a few years ago, "You're hurting America." It's this kind of moronic political coverage that gave us the last disastrous eight years. Congratulations for that.

First thoughts: Obama's biggest speech

MI Chick — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 14:09:30 GMT

Not like this will get posted, but...

*I thought Bill was awesome last night. His speech was the "grand slam".

*John Kerry was also fantastic. Had to go to CSPAN to see his speech, and then (thankfully) MSNBC replayed it. "Before McCain can debate Obama, he needs to finish the debate with himself." Priceless!

*Mike Murphy is a tool. Keith had every right to "wrap him up". HuffPo has a piece on that, but Murphy deserved it, trying to egg on the crowd like that and insulting them. Go Keith!

*Also loved Chris' question to Murphy - "what sane person in America would agree with you?"

*Another priceless moment - when Biden was being told that there was a "surprise" guest - "Who?" Classic!

*Biden's mom - turning to the person next to her - "that's true!". What a lady!

*Beau Biden - wow. What a class act. Godspeed, sir.

*Chucky T - good points on hurricane last night. Too bad it won't go north enough. I see Jindal is already getting the Guard ready. Good - but if there wasn't an RNC convention next week, I doubt that he would have been so proactive. They just don't need more negative press.
-------------------------
P.S. To Virginia - Obama's part Arab? Just what ARE you on, woman?

First thoughts: Obama's biggest speech

MK,MO — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 14:09:44 GMT

"The Clintons owned the Pepsi Center:"

please, spare me, will you cats every get past these hasbeens

First thoughts: Obama's biggest speech

Republican for Obama, Columbia, TN — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 14:09:59 GMT

Am I only one who thought Joe Biden's speech was awesome and inspiring. Are Dems really this cynical! Biden's speech was plainly spoken and hit at the heart of working, middle-class Americans. I completely disagree with Chuck Todd's very cynical analysis. It was not the Clinton's night!

First thoughts: Obama's biggest speech

Tzalaran — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 14:10:58 GMT

anyone disappointed with Biden's speech is grasping at straws. he outlined why Obama is the better choice in this election beautifully. His son was absolutely amazing in introducing him, and showed alot of class by not explicitly stating he was going to Iraq as a reserve, but just asking the Dems to watch out for his dad while he is gone.

i agree that the Clintons owned the first three nights, and they showed a level of class that i never gave them credit for. Michelle, Kerry, and most of the senators and govenors that spoke were amazing, and it was great to see so many of our service men and women come out of their comfort level and speak on behalf of the Obama campaign.

all cable networks should be ashamed of themselves for not showing the film on our troops. i'm glad i watch C-span to get my convention coverage. That was one of the most powerful moments of the night, and most of america didn't see it.

Can't wait for the speeches tonight.

First thoughts: Obama's biggest speech

Nashville_fan — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 14:11:53 GMT

Not to be crude, but . . .

I've grown weary of MSNBC political commentators peeing in my coffee during this historic political moment.

No matter WHAT happens at the convention, MSNBC focuses like a LASER on what was WRONG, what was MISSING, what SHOULD have been done better.

In your eagerness to critique, you have missed the forest for the trees.

The HEADLINE of this week is a FEEL GOOD STORY about the PROGRESS that has been made in America over the last 40 years - for women and for Americans of EVERY ethnic background.

Senator Clinton and Senator Obama have opened the door for EVERY AMERICAN to be INCLUDED in not only American politics but the American dream.

No amount of speech parsing, rumor mongering, and down right disrespect from the "media" is going to change that fact.

History will remember this once in a liftetime confluence of civil rights and women's rights so much differently than the petty self-serving coverage that we have seen this week.

Tonight I'll be watching not for Senator Obama to make a mistake, but rather for him to make history.

I won't let carping about columns from short sighted columnists ruin my chance to enjoy Senator Obama's WELL EARNED celebration.

I just feel sorry for all the people who will have their moment forever stained by the what the faux "journalists" have to say. I won't be one of them.

First thoughts: Obama's biggest speech

Diane from Illinois — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 14:12:16 GMT

There is NO WAY I will watch tonight's sppech on MSNBC or CNN. I will be tuned in to C-Span. I don't need a Chris Matthews-type interrupting the most important speech of my lifetime. I'm appalled by reading these blogs today and hearing that people missed John Kerry's speech or Steven Speilberg's video (it was fantastic!)last night due to the constant BABBLE of People who THINK we care about THEIR opinions! Bloggers...please turn off this garbage and tune in to C-Span. They just show the speeches, nothing more, nothing less. NO COMMENTARY! You can make up your own minds!

First thoughts: Obama's biggest speech

ge`pa — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 14:12:21 GMT

The best thing Mother Nature can do is to remind the American people how badly George Bush failed to help the victims of Hurricane Katrina. Mother Nature should come down very hard on the GOP Convention; because thats what they deserve.

First thoughts: Obama's biggest speech

Eric, Salinas, CA — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 14:12:37 GMT

I was watching the Daily Show last night and saw some clips of Moronic Joe. What a clueless creep this jerky boy is and why on earth is MSNBC tolerating his disgusting behavior and language on their channel? I for one never watch that clueless creep who is the enemy of the Average Joe & Jane American.

I suggest that all of us Democrats boycott the Moronic Joe show so we drive his ratings down where they belong and the MSNBC exces finally get a clue and fire him. We need to keep these merchants of fear and smear off our liberal media outlets, let them go shill for Fox or CNN.

The BBC News America show in the morning is an excellent substitute for hearing real honest news and commentary. Watch BBC America in the morning until MSNBC tv gets smart and sends Moronic Joe packing back to Fox with his tail between his legs.

Go Obama/Biden 08/12!

First thoughts: Obama's biggest speech

MK,MO — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 14:12:59 GMT

I predict Mccain will pick Hillary Rodham Clinton as his running mate, she has done more to help his campagn than anyone else on the planet, it just seems like the right thing to do.

First thoughts: Obama's biggest speech

MK,MO — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 14:13:04 GMT

I predict Mccain will pick Hillary Rodham Clinton as his running mate, she has done more to help his campagn than anyone else on the planet, it just seems like the right thing to do.

First thoughts: Obama's biggest speech

NObama — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 14:13:18 GMT

The Democratic Party better get ready to salute John McCain.

Not b/c Bill didn't make the case.
Not b/c Hillary didn't make the case.

But b/c there is no case to be made for Obama. He has no experience, no accomplishment.

Bill did his best last night. But you got to have something to work with, for God's sake.

We love Bill. We love Hillary. And we are voting for McCain.

First thoughts: Obama's biggest speech

Paul Miller, Woodbridge, VA — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 14:14:28 GMT

This also from BusinessWeek back in 1999. It strikes me as a pretty damaging view of McCain's inability to bother himself with things like those pesky details of background information, which only take away from the simplicity of otherwise over-simplified thinking.

Here's part of the article:

"While some admire McCain's principled stands, others say he's just plain stubborn. Ethanol groups would argue the latter.

"For more than a decade, McCain has held up ethanol tax breaks as Exhibit A in his case against corporate welfare. Yet he has never met with some of the industry's top lobbyists in Washington. Eric Vaughn, the president of the Renewable Fuels Assn., says he can only guess that McCain established his anti-ethanol stance in the late '80s, when 70% of ethanol came from agri-giant Archer Daniels Midland Co.

"Today, most ethanol production comes from farmer-owned co-operatives. 'If he's going to attack the ethanol industry, at least he should attack us with updated information,' Vaughn sighs. 'I don't have the impression that Mr. McCain has the benefit of all the information. But he does have the benefit of his convictions.'"

First thoughts: Obama's biggest speech

Class Warrior, D.C. — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 14:14:35 GMT

I thought Tammy Duckworth's speech was good, though most people watching cable news networks missed it. The speeches by veterans who've seen up close and WAY too personal how badly Iraq is mismanaged, how horrendous Bush and Cheney's abandonment of them was when they come home broken, as if they were toys a spoiled child no longer wants because they are broken, and the truly stupid plans Mclame has for the VA really got me. Seeing Tammy D. walking off the podium on prosthetic legs and using canes really brought it all home to me.
If Gustov had occurred during the Dem convention, nutbar preachers like Robertson would call it "God's Wrath". How come it's just an annoyance when it happens to the GOP?
I'll be interested in seeing if the crowd at the Repiglican convention is as fired up as the Dems were. Why would they be? Mclame is only the nominee by default; he was the last man standing, and now his VP choices are the losers who fell before he did. What is there to be enthusiastic about?

First thoughts: Obama's biggest speech

David, St Louis Mo — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 14:14:38 GMT

Chuck - The Friday after the Republican Convention does Bill Clinton campaign with Obama? This woudl step on the Republican "bounce" as announcing the Republican VP this Friday.

First thoughts: Obama's biggest speech

Corky Tomms, Superior CO — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 14:14:40 GMT

Barack, Celine Dion called. She wants that stage you borrowed from her Vegas act returned first thing in the morning. And if there's any damage, you're losing your security deposit.

First thoughts: Obama's biggest speech

RENEA — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 14:14:48 GMT

I am a Democrat because I can not afford to be a Republican!

First thoughts: Obama's biggest speech

Gerry — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 14:15:27 GMT

I don't think it is fair to say it was the Clinton'day . It made Obama look bigger by honoring and not being afraid of honoring the achievements of President and Senator Clinton. I think the "catharsis" was deserved and needed. And if Biden's speech was not blazing rhetoric, it spoke honestly to middle class and working class Americans.The remarkable thing was that the leaders of the past , the Kennedys and the Clintons, were honored and they joined in wanting to be part of the future And I think it is worth mentioning the historic aspect of the day......a day when a major political party nominated and African American candidate for President of the United States

First thoughts: Obama's biggest speech

Theme Music — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 14:16:16 GMT

Tonights theme is "How can we fool them again today".

First thoughts: Obama's biggest speech

MK,MO — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 14:17:12 GMT

Can't MSNBC find something else for Joe Scarelborouh to do, something that doesn't envolve him being sent out over the airwaves repulsing the public at large.

First thoughts: Obama's biggest speech

DCortez — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 14:18:41 GMT

Hope he delivers a great speech since I doubt he can deliver anything else.

First thoughts: Obama's biggest speech

Paul Miller, Woodbridge, VA — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 14:19:35 GMT

Maybe the most damning report on McCain's imbalanced temperment is one about a scuffle he once got in with Strom Thurmond in the Capitol.

McCain was talking on the floor of the Senate, more than a few years back. Thurmond was 95 at the time. Thurmond interupted McCain to ask if he would be through soon.

McCain seethed, but only thanked Thurmond for his courtesy there on the floor.

Immediately after he was done speaking, though, he caught Thurmond in a hallway, blew up at Thurmond, and eventually the two briefly scuffled before being separated by others.

Remember, Thurmond was 95 at the time. McCain wasn't a young guy himself, but... he tried to start a fight with a 95-year-old... over the "offense" of being interrupted.

Is this really a guy anyone wants to see with commander and chief responsibilities?

First thoughts: Obama's biggest speech

Jerrod Knight, Austin Tx — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 14:21:05 GMT

Barry must be worried sick about how this ridiculous Super Bowl Half Time show (without the football game) will play out tonight. McCain has made tons of political points by making Barry into a "celebrity" and a "rock-star". Now we have this Holloywood fakery to watch tonight. Normal people are going to view this as one of the biggest flops in the history of American politics.

First thoughts: Obama's biggest speech

J. Ellis, Virginia — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 14:21:55 GMT

Yes, Barack can give a great speech and he will again tonight, but I predict that the media will pan it the momement it is finished no matter how great it is. Everything this man has done has to be done flawlessly or it will be depicted as a dismal failure. Barack has run most of this race with few surrogates to assist him or defend him (save Michelle) while he bore the tremendous weight of the campaign practically alone. I'm so grateful for Joe Biden ,who now can deliver that much needed assistance and with laser beam persision.

The Clintons were both gracious and noble last night and I'm grateful they have helped to heal the party back together. Bill's speech, although not his greatest, was on the money and had the best one line of the night: "People the world over have always been more impressed by the power of our example than by the example of our power."

But it was John Kerry, a man who knows up close and personal, the sting of unwarranted barbs and baseless attacks, who made the most important speech so far. He effectively compared and contrasted the reasons why McSame is wrong and Barack is right! I cringe when I think that so many people rejected Gore and Kerry based on trivial character flaws and we handed our country over to butchers like Cheney, GWB, and Karl Rove.

We cannot keep making the same mistakes!

OBAMA/BIDEN 08-12

First thoughts: Obama's biggest speech

Capt. Smash Salt Lake City, Utah — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 14:23:05 GMT

The Rethuglicans will make the biggest mistake in this election by trying to make tonights event an anti-American event.

America will get to see how evil and destorted the Rethuglicans really are!

First thoughts: Obama's biggest speech

Jamie, Elmwood Park, IL — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 14:23:15 GMT

Why no mention of John Kerry's speech - probably one of his best ever. Too bad he didn't have that fire when he was running.

First thoughts: Obama's biggest speech

Linda, Atlanta, GA — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 14:23:47 GMT

At approximately 10:04 a.m. Eastern Time, David Shuster referred to Martin Luther King's "I have a Dream" Speech as "infamous" and nobody said anything to correct him. How is it that this guy refers to that speech as evil? Does he not know what "infamous" means?
Morning Joe is getting more stupid by the hour! It is all about his sticking in his mantra "I was a Congressman" every other second. Who Cares? What I care about is that show's incorrectly attaching the label of "infamous" to the "I have a Dream" speech and nobody on there had sense enough or guts enough to correct the charge or mistake.

First thoughts: Obama's biggest speech

thats a fact jack — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 14:24:01 GMT

YES what President Clinton said, he hit out of the park and so will Obama

First thoughts: Obama's biggest speech

Peabody Sherman — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 14:24:26 GMT

SNL couldn't come up with a funnier skit as we're going to have inflicted on us tonight. There's a real danger that the styrofoam columns in back of BHO will blow down in the breeze.