First thoughts: Post-convention map

jaycee, Ventura, CA — Mon, 08 Sep 2008 13:22:10 GMT

John McCain sold his maverick status to the Republican Party establishment long ago in exchange for one last desperate grab at the brass ring. A true maverick would have picked the person he really thought was the best VP choice for the nation, which was clearly Joe Lieberman. Instead he let the Republican power brokers veto his best judgment, forcing him to go with someone who is clearly not in the same league but appeals to the die-hard Republican base. You know, all those folks who still think Bush is doing a great job and that the Iraq War ever made one speck of sense.

Pretty pathetic to see John out there trying to pretend he’s the same guy that ran in 2000. Adding the Earmark Queen of Wasilla, Alaska to the ticket may excite a base that loves her positions on social issues, but her record doesn’t fit the facade they are trying to project to the American people. On three separate occasions in recent years her efforts to steer federal tax dollars to local projects made John McCain’s “pork lists” of “objectionable” spending. Earlier this year Sarah Palin wrote: “The federal budget, in its various manifestations, is incredibly important to us, and congressional earmarks are one aspect of this relationship…"

If the 27 million in federal money she wangled for her community of 8,000 were spent for every 8,000 people in America it would cost the taxpayers more than a trillion dollars. Clearly we can’t afford too many Sarah Palins. Try to square that with all the “reformer” anti-earmark rhetoric they were slinging around at the convention. You can’t.

The Republican side of this campaign has degenerated into an empty exercise in image management, with the sole purpose of holding on to power. As Barack said, it is time for them to own their failure. The American voters gave Republicans complete control of all branches of government for an extended period, more than enough time to implement all their wonderful ideas. We witnessed an expansion of government as spending ballooned along with the deficit, and we became embroiled in a disastrous and unnecessary war that has weakened us militarily and diminished our standing in the world. The tax burden has shifted disproportionately to the middle class, and the government they are funding with their hard-earned dollars has never performed with such breathtaking incompetence. Enough, indeed.

First thoughts: Post-convention map

CA Voter — Mon, 08 Sep 2008 13:23:01 GMT

During a weekend when MSNBC decided to make changes, how in the h*** did they decide to keep Mika on GOP Joe? She spent half the show this morning whining about an editorial whose writers were simply commenting on what they perceived in society today. Newsflash to Mika: they were NOT attacking you. You're a superstar. If MSNBC were as conscious about conservative bias as they apparantly are about Olberman, the hack GOP Joe would have been replaced long ago. Or at least they would put somebody on with him who could stand up to his constant snide and biased remarks. It's as if they're trying to be Fox and Friends II.

First thoughts: Post-convention map

Stewart, Bethesda, MD — Mon, 08 Sep 2008 13:23:17 GMT

PANIC .... PANIC .... PANIC
Chuck Todd, it was embarrassing to see and hear you and your obama sympathizers on msnbc trying so DESPERATELY to dismiss the Gallup polls showing Mccain ahead of your candidate obama. ......... but then again you assured us all that you already have put obama on top of Mccain again by your coming " FIXED " nbc poll.

With all the media help and the Chuck Todd " fix " nbc poll, IT WILL NOT CHANCE THE FACT THAT PALIN WILL HELP MCCAIN TAKE THE WHITE HOUSE IN NOVEMBER. .......... So I predict " YOUR NBC POLL " which is due out on Wednesday will show obama up by 2% points ............ SURPRISE ...... SURPRISE ..

What you people fail to understand is that REAL Americans listen to and connects with REAL patriotic candidates like Palin and Mccain and REAL Americans see through the media bias and talking points you people PARROT everyday from the obama campaign. ........ So continue disparaging Palin and continue to hold up your obvious bias as honest impartial news, this will continue to drive up Sarah Palin favorables and most certainly put Mccain/ Palin in the White House.

YOU CAN SPIT SHINE A SHOES BUT SO MUCH ....... EVENTUALLY IT WILL GO FADE, BECAUSE SOONER OR LATER YOU HAVE TO PUT SOME REAL POLISH ON THEM ..... So to all you obama media and pundits, keep spit shining obama and his fading candidacy.

So Chuck Todd, go back to your honest and unbias coverage of both campaign so we on the right can continue to praise and call you CHUCKY T.

First thoughts: Post-convention map

Ron, Newport Beach, California — Mon, 08 Sep 2008 13:25:41 GMT

Its about time the National Obama Channel got more american!

MSNBC Takes Incendiary Hosts From Anchor Seat
By BRIAN STELTER
MSNBC tried a bold experiment this year by putting two politically incendiary hosts, Keith Olbermann and Chris Matthews, in the anchor chair to lead the cable news channel’s coverage of the election.

That experiment appears to be over.

After months of accusations of political bias and simmering animosity between MSNBC and its parent network NBC, the channel decided over the weekend that the NBC News correspondent and MSNBC host David Gregory would anchor news coverage of the coming debates and election night. Mr. Olbermann and Mr. Matthews will remain as analysts during the coverage.

The change — which comes in the home stretch of the long election cycle — is a direct result of tensions associated with the channel’s perceived shift to the political left.

“The most disappointing shift is to see the partisan attitude move from prime time into what’s supposed to be straight news programming,” said Davidson Goldin, formerly the editorial director of MSNBC and a co-founder of the reputation management firm DolceGoldin.

Executives at the channel’s parent company, NBC Universal, had high hopes for MSNBC’s coverage of the political conventions. Instead, the coverage frequently descended into on-air squabbles between the anchors, embarrassing some workers at NBC’s news division, and quite possibly alienating viewers. Although MSNBC nearly doubled its total audience compared with the 2004 conventions, its competitive position did not improve, as it remained in last place among the broadcast and cable news networks. In prime time, the channel averaged 2.2 million viewers during the Democratic convention and 1.7 million viewers during the Republican convention.

The success of the Fox News Channel in the past decade along with the growth of political blogs have convinced many media companies that provocative commentary attracts viewers and lures Web browsers more than straight news delivered dispassionately.

“In a rapidly changing media environment, this is the great philosophical debate,” Phil Griffin, the president of MSNBC, said in a telephone interview Saturday. Fighting the ratings game, he added, “the bottom line is that we’re experiencing incredible success.”

But as the past two weeks have shown, that success has a downside. When the vice presidential nominee Sarah Palin lamented media bias during her speech, attendees of the Republican convention loudly chanted “NBC.”

In interviews, 10 current and former staff members said that long-simmering tensions between MSNBC and NBC reached a boiling point during the conventions. “MSNBC is behaving like a heroin addict,” one senior staff member observed. “They’re living from fix to fix and swearing they’ll go into rehab the next week.”

The employee, like others, spoke on condition of anonymity because the network does not permit it people to speak to the media without authorization. (The New York Times and NBC News have a content-sharing arrangement exclusively for political coverage.)

Mr. Olbermann, a 49-year-old former sportscaster, has become the face of the more aggressive MSNBC, and the lightning rod for much of the criticism. His program “Countdown,” now a liberal institution, was created by Mr. Olbermann in 2003 but it found its voice in his gnawing dissent regarding the Bush administration, often in the form of “special comment” segments.

As Mr. Olbermann raised his voice, his ratings rose as well, and he now reaches more than one million viewers a night, a higher television rating than any other show in the troubled 12-year history of the network. As a result, his identity largely defines MSNBC. “They have banked the entirety of the network on Keith Olbermann,” one employee said.

In January, Mr. Olbermann and Mr. Matthews, the host of “Hardball,” began co-anchoring primary night coverage, drawing an audience that enjoyed the pair’s “SportsCenter”-style show. While some critics argued that the assignment was akin to having the Fox News commentator Bill O’Reilly anchor on election night — something that has never happened — MSNBC insisted that Mr. Olbermann knew the difference between news and commentary.

But in the past two weeks, that line has been blurred. On the final night of the Republican convention, after MSNBC televised the party’s video “tribute to the victims of 9/11,” including graphic footage of the World Trade Center attacks, Mr. Olbermann abruptly took off his journalistic hat.

“I’m sorry, it’s necessary to say this,” he began. After saying that the video had exploited the memories of the dead, he directly apologized to viewers who were offended. Then, sounding like a network executive, he said it was “probably not appropriate to be shown.”

In an interview on Sunday, Mr. Olbermann said that moment — and the perception that he is “not utterly neutral” — restarted months-old conversations about his role on political nights.

“I found it ironic and instructive that I could have easily said exactly what I did say, exactly when I did say it, if I had been wearing a different hat, and nobody would have taken any issue,” he said.

“Countdown” will still be shown before the three fall debates and a second edition will be shown sometime afterwards, following the program anchored by Mr. Gregory.

The change casts new doubt on what some staff members believe is an effective programming strategy: prime-time talk of a liberal sort. A like-minded talk show will now follow “Countdown” at 9 p.m.: “The Rachel Maddow Show,” hosted by the liberal radio host, begins Monday.

Mr. Griffin, MSNBC’s president, denies that it has an ideology. “I think ideology means we think one way, and we don’t,” he said. Rather than label MSNBC’s prime time as left-leaning, he says it has passion and point of view.

But MSNBC is the cable arm of NBC News, the dispassionate news division of NBC Universal. MSNBC, “Today” and “NBC Nightly News” share some staff members, workspace and content. And some critics are claiming they also share a political affiliation.

The McCain campaign has filed letters of complaint to the news division about its coverage and openly tied MSNBC to it. Tension between the network and the campaign hit an apex the day Mr. McCain announced Gov. Sarah Palin as his running mate. MSNBC had reported Friday morning that Ms. Palin’s plane was enroute to the announcement and she was likely the pick. But McCain campaign officials warned the network off, with one official going so far as to say that all of the candidates on the short list were on their way — which MSNBC then reported.

“The fact that it was reported in real time was very embarrassing,” said a senior MSNBC official. “We were told, ‘No, it’s not Sarah Palin and you don’t know who it is.’ ”

Tom Brokaw and Brian Williams, the past and present anchors of “NBC Nightly News,” have told friends and colleagues that they are finding it tougher and tougher to defend the cable arm of the news division, even while they anchored daytime hours of convention coverage on MSNBC and contributed commentary each evening.

Mr. Williams did not respond to a request for comment and Mr. Brokaw declined to comment. At a panel discussion in Denver, Mr. Brokaw acknowledged that Mr. Olbermann and Mr. Matthews had “gone too far” at times, but emphasized they were “not the only voices” on MSNBC, according to The Washington Post.

Al Hunt, the executive Washington bureau chief of Bloomberg News, said that the entire news division was being singled out by Republicans because of the work of partisans like Mr. Olbermann. “To go and tar the whole news network and Brokaw and Mitchell is grossly unfair,” he said, referring to the NBC correspondent Andrea Mitchell.

Some tensions have spilled out on-screen. On the first night in Denver, as the fellow MSNBC host Joe Scarborough talked about the resurgence of the McCain campaign, Mr. Olbermann dismissed it by saying: “Jesus, Joe, why don’t you get a shovel?”

The following night, Mr. Olbermann and his co-anchor for convention coverage, Mr. Matthews, had their own squabble after Mr. Olbermann observed that Mr. Matthews had talked too long.

Some staff members said the tension led to the network’s decision to keep Mr. Olbermann in New York for the Republican convention, after he ran the desk in Denver during the Democratic convention. MSNBC said that he stayed in New York to anchor coverage of Hurricane Gustav. But some workers say there were other reasons — namely, that Mr. Olbermann was concerned about his safety in St. Paul, given the loud crowds at MSNBC’s set in Denver.

NBC Universal executives are also known to be concerned about the perception that MSNBC’s partisan tilt in prime time is bleeding into the rest of the programming day. On a recent Friday afternoon, a graphic labeled “Breaking News” asked: “How many houses does Palin add to the Republican ticket?” Mr. Griffin called the graphic “an embarrassment.”

According to three staff members, Jeff Zucker, chief executive of NBC Universal, and Steve Capus, president of NBC News, considered flying to the Republican convention in Minnesota last week to address the lingering tensions.

Up to now, the company’s public support for MSNBC’s strategy has been enthusiastic. At an anniversary party for Mr. Olbermann in April, Mr. Zucker called “Countdown” “one of the signature brands of the entire company.”

Just last year, Mr. Olbermann signed a four-year, $4-million-a-year contract with MSNBC. NBC is close to supplementing that contract with Mr. Olbermann, extending his deal through 2013 — and ensuring that he will be on MSNBC through the next election.

Jim Rutenberg contributed reporting for this article.

First thoughts: Post-convention map

Joe - STL — Mon, 08 Sep 2008 13:27:03 GMT

I have to disagree with moving WI to the toss-up column. 538.com has Obama up by 8.9 on average in that state.

And I trust their numbers a lot more than any of the news outlets, based on accuracy alone.

First thoughts: Post-convention map

Obama/Biden '08 — Mon, 08 Sep 2008 13:29:34 GMT

The gold standard of national polling, the NBC/WSJ poll, comes out Wednesday.
--------------------------------

I, for one, will wait for the gold standard. Also, the electoral map is what is most important.

Pat, Huntington, NY,

In anticipation of your railing against us who have helped Senator Obama win our party’s nomination, due to the polls showing McCain in the lead nationally, here are a few facts that elude you every time the numbers fluctuate.

Obama did not fight dirty in the primary, but still triumphed.

Even with Republicans voting for her, your support, and her kitchen sink strategy, Hillary lost.

What is the matter with you that you cannot take heart in the state electoral polls that have had Obama significantly, and consistently ahead?

The Obama supporters were sorely tested with the ‘Wright‘, and ‘bitter’ controversies. We did not turn on our candidate, nor one another. We fought through them. Obama fought through them.

Barack is our candidate. If you can’t give him a strong, consistent voice of support, please keep silent.

Obama/Biden ‘08

First thoughts: Post-convention map

BJ, CA — Mon, 08 Sep 2008 13:30:02 GMT

...a little story of girl named Sarah...found a way
to secure the economics of Alaskans and how we all
paid for it...
Let's see here “I stood up to the big oil
companies”...Impress upon yourself the stupidity of
that statement and let's go to economics 101
class...
Sarah Palin got the oil companies to pay more money
to Alaskan citizens from their oil resource
profits...
Okay...that means that those “extra fees” will have
to be made up so the revenues of the oil companies
do not go down...this is the failings of Sarah.
Do we see what happened here..Sarah Palin made it
“legal” for the oil companies to raise the cost of
oil for every American. The cost for you and me in
the lower 48 States and Hawaii She got a boost to
the Citizens of Alaskans to get elected but those
cost were passed down to us....Are we feeling lied
to. Are we feeling screwed yet?
Increased fees charged by the State of Alaska to
the oil companies does not change the profit
margins of the oil companies...those cost get
passed along to the consumer...YOU and ME..
The Alaskans get $12,200 per citizen per year and
we get to pay that increase
SHE GOT ELECTED GOVERNOR ON EVERYONES HIGHER
GASOLINE PRICES!!!...
For months I've been trying to figure how the cost
of oil could go up and up this last year and a half...well who has been governor of Alaska for 18
months.
First we figured out that speculators on Wall
Street were part to blame but now it is appears
that because Alaskans are getting higher state
revenues for every barrel of oil pumped out of
Alaska because Sarah Palin stood up to the oil
companies...well ...that's right those increased
cost everyone has been paying for.
Don't let the lies and screwing continue...stand up
to fake and phony politicians like John McCain and
Sarah Palin...Let's put and end to the free loaders...they just cost everyone to much...
If it was fair we would all be Alaskans..but I
don't think that's going to happen...
Sarah Palin has a whole lot of explaining to do
before she will ever get my vote...
John McCain said he never was good at
economics..well here's that proof...

First thoughts: Post-convention map

Pete - Albany, NY — Mon, 08 Sep 2008 13:30:42 GMT

I hope ABC knows they can't ask tough question of Sarah Palin. It's sexist to do so.

As for the polls, the USA Today/Gallup poll tweaked the likely voter model to be a "What If?" and it gave a simillar result. Chuck Todd gave a wonderful explanation and thesis...the higher the voter turnout in November, the less reliable the likely voter model will have proven to be.

Remember, folks, neither campaign is looking at Gallup or Rasmussen or Zogby or NBC/WSJ or any of the other media polls. They both have their own internal numbers.

First thoughts: Post-convention map

Class Warrior, D.C. — Mon, 08 Sep 2008 13:31:13 GMT

McCain and Palin aren't much separately, which is why they've stuck together. When they separate, and Palin is actually interviewed by somebody touch (if ever---Charlie Gibsonis practically Fox News, he won't ask the tough questions listed above) then we'll start to see the whole thing thing unravel.
I agree, Joe Biden needs to open up on Mccain more, start consistently switching the topics from The Barracuda to The Ancient of Days. Separately, McCain can't remember things, and Palin will start to spout the kids of crackpot stuff she believes---if asked by a skillful jounralist.

First thoughts: Post-convention map

Anthony, West Lafayette, in — Mon, 08 Sep 2008 13:31:14 GMT

Good Lord, as soon as a poll comes out showing McCain in the lead, it's immediately thrown out...and OF COURSE the NBC poll is the Gold Standard of Polling...get over yourselves

First thoughts: Post-convention map

Biased — Mon, 08 Sep 2008 13:31:44 GMT

Where is the story on the "Code Pink" Protester having MSNBC credentials at the GOP convention?????
Didn't think i would see that here.

First thoughts: Post-convention map

Andrea, New York City — Mon, 08 Sep 2008 13:32:15 GMT

By now its been reinforced that the Republican party and John McCain cannot be trusted, are liars and will do ANYTHING to get elected.

John McCain has taken the lowest of his own traits and attributed them to Barack Obama. He knows himself well and therefore can attribute these traits knowingly. He only cares about himself and his ambition. And choosing Sarah Palin as his running mate only shows how dishonest and cynical he is.

The fact that McCain has to go to these lengths only tells you how desparate he knows he is.

Barack Obama is the most intelligent and sincere politician that we have had on our landscape for years. He will make a difference. His displays a deep understanding and love for this country that is unparalleled.

We cannot let the McCain campaign win this election. The Polls are close. The lies are vast. And many times folks do not do their research and find the truth. This year we must be vigilant and not let ourselves be corrupted by McCain, Palin and their viewpoints.

First thoughts: Post-convention map

annoyed, boston, ma — Mon, 08 Sep 2008 13:33:31 GMT

the sooner everyone stops treating Sarah Palin like a celebrity being interviewed for People magazine the better. we need to start focusing on the fact that she is running for VP with a man who is 72 years old, and not her qualifications as a mother. to not evaluate her as a possible nominee for President would be a denial on the part of the American people of John McCain's age.

She wants to teach creationism in schools along side evolution; she is currently under investigation for violation of her power-ethics issues. These are the real issues!!!

First thoughts: Post-convention map

Gregory Peek, Birmingham, Alabama — Mon, 08 Sep 2008 13:33:31 GMT

McCain had to choose between the anti-change Republican base and mainstream America, which wants significant change from the Bush policies of the last eight years. Even while hiding Bush from the spotlight of the Republican Convention, McCain chose the anti-change Republican base. The effect on America of the Bush policies that McCain, the anti-change candidate, has supported for eight years can not be hidden.

First thoughts: Post-convention map

Mr Eko — Mon, 08 Sep 2008 13:33:45 GMT

What is your definition of "toss up"? Because Obama is ahead in all of the states that you are calling "toss up" with the exception of FL. Again, another transparent attempt to create a dramatic horse race where there is none.

First thoughts: Post-convention map

Kevin, Toronto, Ontario, Canada — Mon, 08 Sep 2008 13:33:54 GMT

As a Canadian, sometimes I can't understand how easily distracted Americans get. Sarah Palin is a PRIME example! Why the world is everyone so taken with this woman? Do you really want her running you're country? In all likelihood, something significant could happen to McCain while in office. After 8 years of having a buffoon as a President, you'd think you guys would have learned your lesson and vote your interests this time. Like Bill Mahar said, you get exactly what you deserve when you vote in idiots.

First thoughts: Post-convention map

LB, Virginia — Mon, 08 Sep 2008 13:34:22 GMT

Palin had to read the teleprompter for her speeches with McCain this weekend--will she ask for limits on the questions Charlie can ask? He'd better be as tough on her as he was with Obama at the debates earlier this year, or he will lose a lot of credibility. Why isn't anyone in the big league press reporting about how Palin cut funding for children, disabled, seniors and unwed mothers while flying her family on tax payer money? Sorry FR, you guys have to get on these stories. It's not fair that they can just waltz her around like she's a, well, celebrity! And the McCain camp said she can't go on talk shows this weekend because she had to be home with her son who is shipping off to Iraq. Uh, well I guess he's not that special to her anymore. That woman has the ego the size of Alaska! Remember John Salinger's words: "Facisim will come to America wrapped in a flag and carrying a cross."

First thoughts: Post-convention map

HARRY REASONER, NEW YORK, N.Y. — Mon, 08 Sep 2008 13:34:48 GMT

IF YOU ARE A WOMEN AND BELIEVE SARA PALIN HAS YOUR BEST INTEREST IN MIND..THEN YOU ARE A "FOOL". THIS IS JUST ANOTHER REPUBLICAN PLOY. THEY WILL DO ANYTHING..SAY ANYTHING TO GET YOUR VOTE.

First thoughts: Post-convention map

Pat Huntington NY — Mon, 08 Sep 2008 13:35:23 GMT

Well, looks like the idiot wing of the my Democratic party sold us another losing candidate. When, or when will my party learn how to campaign to win, as opposed to campaigning to lose! I am seriously thinking of leaving the losing party and going Independent. And I've made my last campaign contribution ever last week to Obama - guess I can kiss those $25 goodbye! Like burning money.

First thoughts: Post-convention map

Joe - STL — Mon, 08 Sep 2008 13:35:46 GMT

I would also disagree with NM as a toss-up. 538 has Obama up there by an average of seven points...

First thoughts: Post-convention map

Mr Eko — Mon, 08 Sep 2008 13:36:05 GMT

Why no mention of JOE BIDEN on MEET THE PRESS? Palin should be terrified of going up against him on foreign policy after his showing this Sunday. Biden is going to eat Palin alive, these debates should be fun!

And you guys really need to get rid of the USA Today/Gallup poll. Over the last several months, it has consistently been the outlier, even drastically disagreeing with the Gallup only poll.

First thoughts: Post-convention map

Beth — Mon, 08 Sep 2008 13:36:06 GMT

Can someone tell Mika to "GET A GRIP"! Not everyone woman feels that woman should juggle 5 kids and trying to become the next vice president of the US! Her anger spews projection of her own insecurities, probably of her inability to do both effectively. She’s getting just as annoying as Joe, only Willie keeps me watching.

First thoughts: Post-convention map

Socialism Stinks — Mon, 08 Sep 2008 13:36:34 GMT

The truth is now coming out. Words mean things Obama. And your words only add up to more taxes, more hardship, and more work for the people that produce in this country to support the people that don't work.

First thoughts: Post-convention map

Ken, Sterling, VA — Mon, 08 Sep 2008 13:36:39 GMT

Those are good questions for Palin...I'm not expecting a one of them to be asked though. This is where I really miss Tim Russert.

And maybe you guys should tell Brokaw, et al, to stop asking about Palin and talk about issues? Or did you buy into the GOP line about issues not mattering when you caved on pulling Matthews and Olbermann?

First thoughts: Post-convention map

ge`pa` — Mon, 08 Sep 2008 13:36:56 GMT

On Meet the Press Sunday, Joe Biden spoke about his stand on abortion. He explained how his religion, which is Roman Catholic should not be forced on all other Americans who are not catholic, and are just as devoted to their religion as Joe Biden is to his. He stated that the Democratic Party believes that Government and religion should not control a womans body and abortion should remain legal for cases when the woman's life is in danger, incest, and especially rape. Republican nominee Sarah Palin stated she was glad her daughter made the decided to have her baby, even though the father of the baby clearly stated on video that he did not want children; in fact Mrs. Palin was plaining to have a shot gun wedding for her daughter and her boyfriend before news of Mccain picking her for VP broke. The question is why did Palin say she was glad her daughter made the right "decision" to have her baby? "was she planning to Abort it?? It sounds that way, and if so Sarah Palin believes that abortion should be illegal for everone else; But not foe her and her daughter. Sarah Palin is a typical Republican -- she is a phoney and a Hypocrite and uses religion and abortion as a wedge to win elections. Then she turns the whole thing around and tries to make a hero out of herself by saying I'm just like you, I have problems in my family too. NO Mrs. Palin you are NOT LIKE ME -- because I am not a Hypocrite.

First thoughts: Post-convention map

Juanita, TX — Mon, 08 Sep 2008 13:37:44 GMT

Bill Clinton, we need you more than ever. We need a great politician like you to wake America up and show what a hypocrite McCain is. Palin's history shows that she is the exact opposite of McCain.

Americans deserve to know the truth. It's clear the media will not do their job and put Palin's earmark history on the front of the news.

Bill, you may be the only chance for millions of Americans.

Four years of McCain will guarantee four years of more war and thousands more American lives lost unnecessarily.

First thoughts: Post-convention map

Feisty Redhead Roselle, IL — Mon, 08 Sep 2008 13:38:00 GMT

Nice to see the “Pipeline Princess’ out there again spewing her disdain for community organizers!! I am at a total loss for words for with what ease the Repulsive ones can look straight into the camera or for that fact your eyes and blatantly LIE!

Well this is one staunch Obama supporter who traveled to Milwaukee, WI again this weekend to campaign on behalf of our next POTUS! WE must fight every lie and smear they throw at us – not this year – not this time!!!

This was my third time in a month I have gone out there on a Sat. and talked to ‘real people’ about Barack – contrary to popular belief of what the so called journalists want us to believe – WI is VERY excited about voting for Obama.

I suggest everyone on this site sign up at mybarackobama.com and volunteer all the time you can – I plan on being out there every weekend between now and Nov. This election is too important for us, our children and grandchildren.

Let me also just say that this is the first time in my life (46 yr old white professional woman) that I have ever donated either time or money to a campaign. There is no experience needed – the first time I went to Milwaukee they were a couple of days away from opening their HQ’s – about 50 people from the Chgo area drove there – young… old…black…white…independents…republicans…families with teenage kids still too young to vote...

You could not BELIEVE the amount of excitement & enthusiasm in that room – you could actually feel the energy in the air!

I have never felt anything like that before so it is with that I encourage everyone to put on some comfortable shoes and start knocking on some doors.

Obama/Biden – This is OUR Time!

First thoughts: Post-convention map

Carwyn, New York — Mon, 08 Sep 2008 13:38:13 GMT

I think the polls will soon be in Obama's favor once people start get to know who really Sarah Palin is.. She can never be a Hilary Clinton, and women should realize she doesnt favor their needs and rights.

First thoughts: Post-convention map

MCCAIN & PALIN LEAD IN 3 POLLS ! — Mon, 08 Sep 2008 13:39:08 GMT

MSNBC --- WAKE UP AND SMELL THE ROSES!
.........................................

FROM DRUGE REPORT, SEPT. 8 AM

USATODAY POLL: MCCAIN TAKES 10-POINT LEAD OVER OBAMA IN LIKELY VOTERS...

ZOGBY: MCCAIN-PALIN UP 4%...

GALLUP: McCain Moves Ahead, 48% to 45%...

duh!

First thoughts: Post-convention map

J. Ellis, Virginia — Mon, 08 Sep 2008 13:39:13 GMT

So, the RNC has finally allowed Pit Bull Palin to sit for an interview with ABC? I do hope that Charlie Gibson will redeem himself and ask true journalistic questions of this new "rock star" that we know absolutely nothing about. Otherwise ObamaNation will be in your face asking what happened. There are too many questions that need real answers and deep probing. Time's a-waisting or are the Repubs intentionally trying to run out the clock on Dick Cheney in lipstick and high heels?

BTW, if I were McCain, I would be realy upset that people are more interested in Gov. Palin than in him, who is supposed to be the top of the ticket. Talk about upside down politics.

OBAMA/BIDEN 08/12

First thoughts: Post-convention map

Lori,Troy, NY — Mon, 08 Sep 2008 13:39:39 GMT

Sarah Palin is in the news because THE MEDIA is dominating the news with her. "Where did you go, Joe?" Please, Joe didn't go anywhere, the media has just chosen to cover Sarah Palin. My only problem with that is that with such a critical election, we need balanced coverage and if you want to cover Palin, then why do I still not know where she stands on the issues. Ultimately, if John McCain needs an electritying pick to energize his candidacy one needs to ask, would voters be interested in McCain if Palin where not on the ticket? It's a bit scary to me that we are spending so much time talking about someone who is on the bottom of the ticket.

First thoughts: Post-convention map

Eric, Salinas, CA — Mon, 08 Sep 2008 13:40:29 GMT

I saw that Chuck Todd has a new toy for showing how the states break down on the electoral map. Looks good and it was so nice to see Chucky T. instead of Moronic Joe at 6AM. I hope the First Read crew got a good rest this weekend after two very busy weeks.

I got a real laugh out of how the media calls "Sinner" Sarah's Screech of the Banshee electrifying, so is electroshock therapy. What clips I saw of her pathetic screech were downright laughable and only the totally braindead would have liked the Shrieking Violet.

Speaking of the Wicked Witch of Alaska did you know that she has kept the $233 million of taxpayer money intended for the Bridge to Nowhere that she was for before she was against? So where's the money "Embezzler" Palin? Why isn't the media making more of a fuss about this bit of theivery?

Go Obama/Biden 08/12!

First thoughts: Post-convention map

Suz in KS — Mon, 08 Sep 2008 13:40:45 GMT

When is Palin going to be "ready" to go out campaigning without McCain as her chaperone? Biden doesn't need Obama holding his hand everywhere she goes. Palin is just an empty pair of pumps. No substance, no experience, no knowledge. What was McCain thinking when he could have had Kay Bailey Hutchinson, Christina Todd Whitman, Susan Collins, or Olympia Snow? All these women would have the brains, the knowledge and the experience to go out on their own from day one. They wouldn't have needed Joe Lieberman to tutor them!

First thoughts: Post-convention map

David, New Milford CT — Mon, 08 Sep 2008 13:41:29 GMT

On the MTP Biden talked about Palin? You guys are bunch of dumb asses.... He answers the questions that Brokaw asked him. And when it wasn't about Palin he gave Brokaw a lesson on Iraq. Why don't you guys smell what you are shoveling, idiots.

First thoughts: Post-convention map

Nj — Mon, 08 Sep 2008 13:41:58 GMT

Have you seen this???

http://www.americablog.com/2008/09/how-americablog-reader-asked-john-and.html

MSNBC should be ASHAMED of themselves. Bucking to The GOP like a bunch os babies.

Matthews, Olberman and Maddow are the only ones who really report. The rest of you STINK.
Brokaw is an OLD hack as well. on MTP he spewed GOP talking points over and over.
What a joke

First thoughts: Post-convention map

MIA in Miami — Mon, 08 Sep 2008 13:43:11 GMT

Obama has a plan and it will work out in November, no matter how much the MSM trys to help McSurge win
...UGH! ***rolling eyes***

First thoughts: Post-convention map

Beverly in Chicago — Mon, 08 Sep 2008 13:43:25 GMT

Joe Biden, Obama, the media are being taught Palin taboo. Why is the lip-stick pit-bull, Sarah Palin so taboo? The media is accused of sexism and other bias; only because it’s vetting her. McCain didn’t.

"I think God's will has to be done, in unifying people and companies to get that gas line built, so pray for that." Palin said at the church she was baptized in. So does this mean if and when Palin becomes Prez she’ll tell an America filled from coast to coast of different religions that we must pray for what she wants?
Palin's clean image celebrity taken a big shoot, and is antithetical to her Puritanical Revolution. What a hypocrite and fraud. Peddling sex(lipstick, her being hot) is NOT being a social conservative!

Enough!
No how
No McCain/Palin
Nobody but Obama/Biden

First thoughts: Post-convention map

thats a fact jack — Mon, 08 Sep 2008 13:43:43 GMT

palin and her side kick mccant got a bump in polls but as soon as she starts answereing questions that will evaporate. Moderate Americans will see that palin is bush/cheney twin sister and palins meteroic rise will be followed by by her crash and burn. Where is this pitbull with lipstick, so far she seems to be hiding under the stairs with her taill between her legs.

First thoughts: Post-convention map

Dave Dragon, Tampa , Florida — Mon, 08 Sep 2008 13:44:45 GMT

I can't wait to see Paling & Biden debating actual issues. It will be interesting to see if she can actually think on her feet.

<a href="http://davedragon.rilysi.com">Dave</a>

First thoughts: Post-convention map

Lisa Ross, Beverly Hills MICH — Mon, 08 Sep 2008 13:45:00 GMT

Why is Palin getting such a free pass? The media can't be too tough on her because she's a woman?! How insulting....I'm a working mom but I take no comfort in knowing that an old McCain could win the presidency with such an unqualified VP. I don't want someone I can "relate to". I want someone who's ready to be President. If she can dish it out (and we've seen how good she is at that), then let her come out of hiding and take it. She's running for VP, not PTA president!

First thoughts: Post-convention map

jacie, NY — Mon, 08 Sep 2008 13:45:10 GMT

Off topic...I am very upset about what MSNBC is doing to Keith and Chris for the election coverage. Do they think that Fox News isn't biased towards the RNC?...they slap Obama and Biden every chance they get. I had hoped that MSNBC was better than that. Now they too slap Obama and Biden...when they took off Chris and Keith...give me a break! Is everyone in the McCain pocket??? I am beginning to believe that MSNBC wants to be like FIXNEWS - cheerleader for the RNC. Wake up you guys...before it's too late and viewers will leave in droves...and you go off the air.

First thoughts: Post-convention map

Lauri Smalls, Providence,RI — Mon, 08 Sep 2008 13:45:24 GMT

I hope McCain receives the media scrutiny Obama did when he was the "front-runner" - it seemed as though all the news shows were taking aim at Obama - so now with the supposed "front-runner" change - will Mccain receive now 70% negative reporting or not? And just imagine if Obama chose a running mate who did not meet with the press - what kind of stories would be running about that? As a voter, I am more interested in the candidates positions rather than their fashion sense -- the best voter is an informed voter -- so I for one would like to see the press do pieces on where these candidates stand on issues that are important to me. Now that the McCain-Palin ticket is the presumed front-runners can we see some serious pieces on them? Or do we have to continue to hear how she's polling with working moms? Come on...

First thoughts: Post-convention map

Lisa S, Jenkintown, PA — Mon, 08 Sep 2008 13:45:31 GMT

I am voting Democrat. Obama sure did mess it up for himself. One of the major reasons he was so exciting during the primaries, is that he was running against Hillary. Aside from his acceptance speech at the convention, Hillary's speech is the one that got the most major draw. Biden is dull, and looks like old school politics. Obama should have chosen Hillary and we would be in a much better place right now. Instead, we have "blue collar" Biden, who has been in politics for 40 years. Laugh when hear him talk about being one of the "poorest" people in the senate. The only hope us democrats have is that perhaps the polls are not taking young cell-phone using voters into account. Nancy and Howard must be very proud. They got rid of the Clintons (for now) - but put us in jeopardy of losing another election.

First thoughts: Post-convention map

Dave Dragon, Tampa , Florida — Mon, 08 Sep 2008 13:45:52 GMT

It will be interesting to see Biden & Palin debate.
Can she think on her feet or just read a tele-prompter?

<a href="http://davedragon.rilysi.com">Dave</a>

First thoughts: Post-convention map

President or Puppet — Mon, 08 Sep 2008 13:45:56 GMT

I hope the Independents are watching and thinking. Is it not funny that McPOW could not pick his own VP. Is it also not funny that earlier in the campaign that it was noted that McPOW did not speak for the campaign. McPOW is being used by the republican party as a frontman and the Executive Branch of the government will be ran from behind the scenes by the Neocons that have been running the Bush administration for the last 8 years.

First thoughts: Post-convention map

Carrie in TX — Mon, 08 Sep 2008 13:46:13 GMT

Sarah Palin = Flash in the Pan. Do you think ANYBODY with her religious extremist views and questionable record but in a less attractive package would come close to "energizing" anybody but the GOP base?

When will people wake up and realize that this is not a beauty contest, a Most Popular Contest or a Student Council election? Those are high school concepts.

It's a clear choice --want more of the same we've had for the last eight years? Vote McCain. Want things to get better? Vote Obama.

As for USA/Gallup poll, it's always been an outlier among polls. Nice try.

Respectfully,
A Proud Independent in Texas
(where the Republican debacle all began)

First thoughts: Post-convention map

Whitey, Cape Hope, NC — Mon, 08 Sep 2008 13:46:22 GMT

The swing to sanity has started. The election will go about 300 electoral votes for McCain-Palin and about 228 for those other guys.

First thoughts: Post-convention map

Lori Cummings — Mon, 08 Sep 2008 13:47:08 GMT

I would like to see the issue of the Draft brought up. MCCain is 100% for it. How do the American people feel about this issue?

First thoughts: Post-convention map

twocanpete — Mon, 08 Sep 2008 13:48:50 GMT

http://www.twocanpete.blogspot.com/
The poll data is skewed in favor of McCain because the pollsters have not caught up with the 21st century. Many of Obama's supporters only have cell phones therefore they aren't being polled! It will be a blow out this fall.

First thoughts: Post-convention map

Michelle Zee, Lady Pitbulls for Obama/ BIden! — Mon, 08 Sep 2008 13:48:58 GMT

First Read...all this hype about Palin, well who is she, what does she stand for? Seems to me she has radical views, but no one is talking about that.

The Dem's are more united and the base was energized knowing we are up against 4 more years of the Bush/ McCain camp.

He has had several themes throughout his campaign, I guess he found his voice and now he is the reformer. He began as a Bush supporter, but now he is a reformer? He doesn't know who he is, so why should we? He is no reformer, not voting over 90% with Bush. He must think we are dead from the neck up; HOW APPALLING!

The thing is to stop selling us Palin, knowing she is not at the top of the ticket and it is evident she will not be influential on policy.

Another thing in 4 days Kay Hutchinson went from...I don't know Palin to she does know Palin. They are not convinced so why we should be?

I think it is horrible to assume women are not smart enough to vote on the issues.

First thoughts: Post-convention map

JD — Mon, 08 Sep 2008 13:48:59 GMT

Why did Joe "have to spend time" on MTP talking about Palin? Because your man Brokaw kept the focus on her. That was not Biden'a choice, please show some respect here.

First thoughts: Post-convention map

Mary Somers Fitchburg WI — Mon, 08 Sep 2008 13:50:16 GMT

I am hearing rumors that Chris Mathews and Keith Obermann are no longer political anchors. Has General Electric and the money media caved in to the republicans and muzzeled the mainstream media.
Mary Somers

First thoughts: Post-convention map

Rodney Hopper, Waxahachie, TX — Mon, 08 Sep 2008 13:50:30 GMT

With the new map, Obama can still carry OH and FL and win.

Whatever the national polls say, the EC is still in Obama's favor.

http://www.rodneyhopper.com

First thoughts: Post-convention map

Rick,Ky — Mon, 08 Sep 2008 13:50:38 GMT

Interesting that the national polling is what everyone thought Hillary had going for her.However, the Obama campaign(intelligently)worked the State by State scenerio (Masterfully, i might add)to the Nomination.If you put any faith into Chuck Todd, his 228-200 Electoral vote lead for Barack was compelling in that Mich was lean Barack & FL was lean McCain. Ohio seem's to be the Place again, thankfully Democrat's have control of the State now.

Lot's more will come out about Palin, the answer America will be looking for is does the media ask pertenent question's or fluff ones, such as " Diamond's or Pearl's"?

Hopefully, now that the conventions are over, my post will will get thru, if not, then o well just another File 13 job.

Barack Obama for POTUS !

First thoughts: Post-convention map

Olga, Oswego, NY — Mon, 08 Sep 2008 13:51:13 GMT

MSNBC has been basking in Sarah Palin. You have not vetted her and continue to give her a pass, along with McCain. Why are you so afraid to research and print the truth about this woman who could very well be the next president. McCain's health and age are serious questions. This woman has absolutely no experience to be in this position.
Start researching the facts and give the American people the truth that they need in order to make an informed decision.
The American people just need to ask themselves one question " Is my life better today than it was eight years ago?" If the answer is no,McCain/Palin have no solutions for that. The reason that they have not talked about the issues, is because they do not plan to change the course of what is going on now.
I challenge MSNBC to ask Sarah Palin the names of the leaders of the countries in the world. She did say that she hadn't kept up with what was going on in Iraq. I guess that will bring change!

First thoughts: Post-convention map

Patrick, Indianapolis — Mon, 08 Sep 2008 13:51:25 GMT

I've said it before and I'll say it again. This campaign is OVER and John "Mush-head" McCain and Sarah Quaylin will win the Presidency and Vice-Presidency. Barack Obama has managed to out-Dukakis Dukakis. He has run the single worst GE campaign in the history of modern American politics. This thing is over and Mush-head will be president come Jan. 20th. It is sad that the American electorate is so stupid as to elect this guy but we all better get used to seeing him in the White House. THIS ELECTION IS OVER AND MUSH-HEAD WILL WIN IN A LANDSLIDE.

First thoughts: Post-convention map

Dookie — Mon, 08 Sep 2008 13:52:12 GMT

Great to see that Gallup Tracking, USA Today Gallup, and Rasmussen tracking all have McCain ahead. Let's keep the momentum going. And it's also good to see that MSNBC finally admitted that Matthews and Olbermann shouldn't be anchoring election coverage with their extreme bias.

McCain / Palin 2008

First thoughts: Post-convention map

Wanting to know about Palin — Mon, 08 Sep 2008 13:54:43 GMT

Any bets why ABC for Palin's first interview?

I watched Palin's Gov. 2006 debate and saw that she does not give detailed answers or answers sometimes that you can't tell what her answer is or gives a jab at her competitor with a smile. Will the press push for in-depth answers and do follow up questions to her prepaired answer?

First thoughts: Post-convention map

Marcy, Anna, IL — Mon, 08 Sep 2008 13:54:51 GMT

The Republican speechwriters need to start working on some new material for Pitbull Sarah immediately. I am more than tired of hearing her repeat bits and pieces from her acceptance speech at the convention for the past week. For someone who is being promoted as the best thing for women since fingers in gloves, she seems seriously inept without her male handlers telling her how to look, what to say, and when to say it. Why don't we just elect the male handlers to run the country after November? Wouldn't be any more of a smoke screen than the one we are seeing now.

First thoughts: Post-convention map

A.Brocco,Albuquerque,NM — Mon, 08 Sep 2008 13:55:50 GMT

Will first read ever react to the news that Palin was determined to have some books removed from an Alaskan library? You hesitated not a second to comment on the Obama/Wright news but you continue to cover Palin's rear end about allegations submitted by Mrs. Kilkenny that snopes verified as true.

First thoughts: Post-convention map

Shera Horn, Port Chester, New York — Mon, 08 Sep 2008 13:56:06 GMT

I believe the bounce comes from the ending of the RNC. Look, no matter how much the GOP want to dance around the issues, the Dems hit the issues straight. So what if McCain is ahead right now, it will even out again and the people will have to decide who is best for the current and future situation. I still think Obama is going to win because Obama is a man of the people, ALL PEOPLE and McCain and Palin just go to areas where people who believe what they believe work. The polls my show that McCain is ahead for now, but McCain and Palin will never get the support of the american people if they are not willing or are afraid to meet ALL American people from All different areas and places throughout the country.

First thoughts: Post-convention map

JTatEHT — Mon, 08 Sep 2008 13:56:16 GMT

The closening race, while perhaps to be expected is quite scary. I could not understand how the country would elect George W twice. I knew from the start that he was less that gifted, but... The Republicans have created a polarization that not only keeps them in the running, but poisins the body politic.

First thoughts: Post-convention map

F.Bruller, Kennelworth, IL — Mon, 08 Sep 2008 13:58:52 GMT

Nice to see Keith O. and Chrissie serverly spanked by the general news media. After their child like behavior at the conventions, these two need to be put back in their playpens until they both grow up. Seeing they are both 50-ish though, not much chance of that happening.

First thoughts: Post-convention map

I haven't forgotten, Monmouth County, NJ — Mon, 08 Sep 2008 13:59:00 GMT

At this time of year, I cannot help but remember those dear friends (four of them), who lost their lives in the Towers. In this election year, I try to project each of the candidates into the role of president on that day.

Suffice to say that I have no trouble believing that John McCain would have reacted almost exactly as George W. Bush did on that day.

Here is what I believe a President Barack Obama would have said:

My fellow Americans:

We are all shaken by the events of this day, a day in which young men, driven by anger against our government, took control of several planes and crashed them into the World Trade Center and the Pentagon. We can all be grateful for the minimal loss of life.

In this dark time, it is imperative that we answer the question: Why? Why did these people hate us? What actions of ours led them to such destructive means of gaining our attention? And, more importantly, what must we do to avoid a similar action in the future?

My State Department informs me that these men were followers of Sheik Osama Bin Ladin; I therefore appeal to the Sheik to arrange, at any time and place of your choosing, a meeting between the two of us so that we can resolve our differences and bring peace to our people.

Many of my fellow citizens may feel anger at what has befallen us. It is important that we avoid the kinds of actions or judgments that will exascerbate the issues which led to this tragedy.

We must look deeply into our collective soul as Americans and admit our guilt. Only then will we be able to resolve, peacefully, the issues which stand between us, and leave a better world for our children. Thank you, and good night.

If any of you Obama followers doubt me, I challenge you to find ANY statement of his on that day seven years ago. He was not a 'private citizen'; he was in the state legislature in Illinois.

Considering how close this election is going to be, I would be comforted in proof that my conjecture is wrong.

First thoughts: Post-convention map

Ralph H. Malph — Mon, 08 Sep 2008 13:59:12 GMT

Oh so the self appointed hockey mom couldn't be bothered with seeing her hockey playing son off to war...more of the faux patriotism from the right.

First thoughts: Post-convention map

BL, Cincinnati OH — Mon, 08 Sep 2008 13:59:42 GMT

"When fascism comes to America it will be wrapped in the flag and carrying a cross." - Sinclair Lewis

Get ready people, fascism is coming. George W. Bush laid the groundwork, and McCain/Palin will enforce it.

Mrs. Cruel Intentions. She's just more of the same Republicon slime and McCain has been turned into a puppet in his ambition quest to out do his father/grandfather.

I'm going to up my monthly donation after seeing that pathetic pack of lies and cheap personal attacks. Figure $100 tonight when I can get a secure connection (work's firewall stops it), and up it later this month.

https://donate.barackobama.com/page/contribute/pf?outreach_page_id=45154

Those that can't donate money, please donate your time. Tell all your friends, email buddies, neighbors and family the truth. Educate them. Register them, and get them to vote!

First thoughts: Post-convention map

Rick, NC — Mon, 08 Sep 2008 13:59:56 GMT

Bye bye barry...the speeches sounded good but the taxes didn't...

First thoughts: Post-convention map

jesse St.Paul Minnesota — Mon, 08 Sep 2008 14:00:44 GMT

Well after months of not questioning all the gaffs,the senior moments,the showing how out of touch he is,middle class are poeple making 5 million,thinks the economy is sound(now we the people will get the honor of paying for McCains economic advisiorPhil Gramms banking blunder )remember not to whine.The McCain has warned the msm that they better not ask his Attack Dog Mrs Palin any questions about her personal life,anything that if the truth comes out may hurt there campaign. Nothing about earmarks,nothing about her religous belifes(after she lead her church in prayer and telling them that the war is Gods will,and they should pray for the gas pipe line she and the Big Oil want to build)First we had McBush telling us that God wanted him to be President,now another Repub that has God talking to Them.Now that the Repubs have have handed the party to Palin the bombere will let her drive and just go along for the ride.Letting her be the one that Msm is talking about since they have no real issues to talk about.Weather you are chasing skirts or hiding under them this is where the Bomber has chosen.Maybe if the msm did there job and ask and keep asking the tough questions until Palin has to answer you are content with asking the other canidates about her.Kind of like you did with Wright.Same standard, I don't think so, it was easy to attack the Black guy but the little lady gets the free pass and the bomber sits back smiling from ear to ear.To the Clintons,its now or never,you are going to have to step up now,Obama still has the wind at his back and a big blow from you would help push him ahead.Time to put friendship aside and take on the same people that helped to distroy you while you were in the W.H.I know Hillary can handle this newbee,a good smack down is what McPalin needs.After all she called Hillary a whiner during the Primary.

First thoughts: Post-convention map

P.A., FL — Mon, 08 Sep 2008 14:01:26 GMT

Do you seriously think ABC is going to able able to ask Palin tough questions. It'll be scripted by the republician campaign chiefs.They wouldn't let her be interviewed if she had to undergo real scrutiny.
And if she's such a barracuda why is she letting these men running McCain's campaign control what's she doing and saying?

First thoughts: Post-convention map

Gavin — Mon, 08 Sep 2008 14:02:22 GMT

Will this be written in future textbooks as the year conservatives ran for change and water ran uphill. Thanks to the Fannie and Freddie fiasco the govt. now owns half the loans in America so you never know. It seems either way liberals are going to win. Mac&p are now using their battles against their own party as campaign ads. Curiouser and curiouser Viva George and Dick's welfare state!

First thoughts: Post-convention map

BJ, CA — Mon, 08 Sep 2008 14:03:02 GMT

Oil wolf in sheep's clothing

First thoughts: Post-convention map

Les Moore, Baltimore, MD — Mon, 08 Sep 2008 14:03:04 GMT

I get the distinct impression the something in the milk ain't clean, either we are a nation living in the fifties, or a nation ready to live in the twenty-first century. Either we are a nation of thinkers or a nation of non thinkers, I remember the London Papers, saying, 94 million American got it wrong in 2004, And here we are about to elect the most inept pair to come along since Curly died and left two Stooges. What is our major malfuntion?

First thoughts: Post-convention map

Pat Huntington NY — Mon, 08 Sep 2008 14:03:47 GMT

The failure to consider people who only use cell phones argument, was also used in 2004. The pollsters are professionals, experts in their fields, you don't think they've considered this?

Obama is going to lose...thanks Obamabots!