First thoughts: The stakes for Palin

I like her-but won't vote for her! — Thu, 02 Oct 2008 13:59:04 GMT

Palin will do great in the debate. She will get off a few "CANNED & REHERSED" ZINGERS with her shrill voice, smile and try to charm and the pugnants will say she hit home run.

The public will say W.T.F. If this the person they want to ram down our collective throats to be the replacement president of the COUNTRY?!?!? Oh NO!!!!

This is serious stuff!

You can like her, but deep in your heart,

you know she is not ready...

BUT NEITHER IS Mr. McGOO.

I like her-but won't vote for her!

First thoughts: The stakes for Palin

Marc in AnyTown USA — Thu, 02 Oct 2008 13:59:12 GMT

On another post, where no commentary was offered by MSNBC, the verbatum interview had a plethura of criticisms. One Palin supporter -- ESTHER -- was livid that it was media bias.

This absolutely astonishes me! Is it no longer allowed to simply print the news exactly as it was recorded?? Get a grip on your blind loyalties, ESTHER.

FInally, your comment about how unbiased Mr. Tim Russert was in his journalistic career. Yes, he was, even when he remarked that now-famous "We now know who the Democratic Presidential candidate will be"... Did you feel he was being unbiased then, or did you rail on him because he was alive and subject to unfair criticism.

No hypocracy, people. Let's keep it as consistent as possible. Journalists still have the right to call it as they see it, but only when sufficient substantiation exists to back up their claims. Chuck Todd is doing so. He has not comprimised his journalistic integrity. Just because he doesn't say what you believe in doesn't make it BIASED, my fellow American ESTHER.

Finally, let's talk Keith O. Yes, he is biased, but you cannot deny that he constantly shows physical evidence (McCain quotes, documentation, recordings, legislative record, video) that backs up his complaints or thoughts. For those hwo may not know this, Keith O. is not a journalist. COUNTDOWN -- like THE FACTOR -- are entertainment shows with a political theme. The difference is, one brings proof with him, while the other (almost always) brings pure speculation & conjecture.

If I used too many big "elitist" words, my Republican friends who support Palin, I do apologize. I paid attention in school. Don't be a hater.

"What a country!!" (i/m/o T. Russert)

First thoughts: The stakes for Palin

Lee L Oregon City Oregon — Thu, 02 Oct 2008 14:00:34 GMT

John McCain has used his POW status as a sign of bravery and courage but let's think about this for just a minute. Bravery is the person (solider, pilot etc) who is afraid, who is worried about their own life...it is an infantryman being told 'follow me' who is scared and charges anyway for 'God and Country'. And we call them hero's and brave people. And they are. If you've never done it think about it. Every sane solider is scared. Our men and woman in Iraq or Afghanistan, ask them if they are not afraid...but they do their jobs and we support them for their courage and bravery.

John McCain wants to take credit and have us support him in the same way yet read what John McCain said in his acceptance speech on Sept 4, 2008 at the Republican convention:
"On an October morning, in the Gulf of Tonkin, I prepared for my 23rd mission over North Vietnam. I hadn't any worry I wouldn't come back safe and sound. I thought I was tougher than anyone. I was pretty independent then, too. I liked to bend a few rules, and pick a few fights for the fun of it. But I did it for my own pleasure; my own pride. I didn't think there was a cause more important than me.

Then I found myself falling toward the middle of a small lake in the city of Hanoi, with two broken arms, a broken leg, and an angry crowd waiting to greet me. I was dumped in a dark cell, and left to die. I didn't feel so tough anymore."

Is it courageous if you "hadn't any worry I wouldn't come back safe and sound. If you didn't even consider you might die. If you were just going on another bombing run. A tough guy. Or is that just plain ignorance or maybe stupidity. And then "I found myself falling toward the middle of a small lake in the city of Hanoi..."

And then he found himself in jail. I won't disagree that he along with his fellow POW's suffered. I won't disagree that John McCain in turning down his early release showed great support for the POW's code by saying he'd stay rather than leave his buddies behind. But what got him there was not bravery or courage it was a total lack of insight into what he was really doing and what the real consequences of his actions may bring to him... 'dumped in a dark cell, and left to die.'

Some of John McCains campaigning and statements reflect this same type of lack of judgement about the reality of the situation. Picking Palin; suspending his campaign to race to Washington to fix things; attacking Obama in one sentence and then saying we should stop all attacks in the next. Think about it... McCain 'not ready to lead'...

Lee

First thoughts: The stakes for Palin

Ellen , St. Augustine, Fl — Thu, 02 Oct 2008 14:00:50 GMT

As the saying goes, "if you can't stand the heat, get out of the kitchen"! So much for Palin. The thought of McCain being president is scary enough but Palin?
The thought is TERRIFYING!!!!

First thoughts: The stakes for Palin

Paul P OKC, OK — Thu, 02 Oct 2008 14:01:00 GMT

McCain made a terrible mistake in not bringing Mike Murphy back as his campaign manager. I think he is absolutely excellent in his analysis of the current political season and would have done a far better job than the goons McCain has now. These Bush nuts have turned McCain into a shell of who he was in 2000. In fact McCain should have been the nominee back then but this season belongs to Obama unless something major happens we can expect a landslide. Obama simply has run a better campaign and has shown himself to be more reassuring than McCain even without the edge of experience. He has made far better judgments than McCain especially when it comes to a VP pick. Sarah Palin, come on people. Obama/Biden 08/12 Clinton 16/20.

First thoughts: The stakes for Palin

BobE, Buffalo Grove, IL — Thu, 02 Oct 2008 14:01:02 GMT

Palin is an idiot. The answers she gives are worse than the ones I used to give on a high school essay exam when I hadn't studied.
She is also a compulsive liar. She's classic. Watch her eyes. When she's getting ready to hatch a whopper, she looks up to her left.
Tonight should be entertaining. If Gwen Ifill (who McLame and the boys are already trying to discredit) doesn't dumb-down the questions, it will be a lot of fun watching Palin tap dance.

First thoughts: The stakes for Palin

LA in Denver — Thu, 02 Oct 2008 14:02:17 GMT

The McCain camp seems to be imploding before our eyes. But I don't doubt they've got some topic changing October surprise ready to go. The problem is it might be too late.

First thoughts: The stakes for Palin

elizabeth, san francisco, california — Thu, 02 Oct 2008 14:02:33 GMT

Senator McCain needs an enemy to get his energy. The bad news for the country, therefore, is that if he wins, he needs a "wolf at the door" to keep himself motivated. Problem is that keeps the anger at a fever pitch...Iran, Wall St. Currently, he is displaying his celebrated temper (under some tighter reins) against Barack Obama by snubbing him in the senate, dismissing him on the debate stage, villifying him in attack ads.

First thoughts: The stakes for Palin

JACKI LIMITE WAYNE, NJ — Thu, 02 Oct 2008 14:02:40 GMT

Palin is her own worst enemy !! All the late night comics have given their joke writers the day off because all you need to do is repeat Sarah's words. She is a complete idiot !! My 5th grader speaks better than she ever will. All we get from Sarah is ramblings, disoriented facts (if you can call them facts), exaggerations and lies. I can guarantee that Sarah will rely on her nasty digs and uncalled for remarks to win points at the debate. Therew ill be no substanance to anything she has to say. She is a common street fighter who only knows how to throw low blows and has the mouth of a truck driver. This is not the debate for Governor of Alaska. This debate if for the VP of US. She is totally out of her league. Let's not give the rest of the world more reason to laugh at the US.

First thoughts: The stakes for Palin

MartaK ,Hollywood, FL — Thu, 02 Oct 2008 14:03:18 GMT

I could not believe my ears when I heard Gov Jane Swift on MSNBC defend Palin's inability to name a SINGLE Supreme Court case beside Roe v. Wade by saying "there are a lot of smart guys who might know Supreme Court cases but who got us in this mess in Wall St...."
Excuse me but....WHAT? What do historic (and famous) Supreme Court rulings from history that have shaped this country have to do with the varied causes of the economic meltdown? There is no logical thought pattern to that statement at all and there is no causal relationship between the two! She's starting to sound as dumb as Palin herself! Furthermore, I love the way she stressed the word, "Guys" when she said that, once again raising the utter ridiculous and nonsensical charge of sexism as a reason why people are shocked that Palin is too stupid to know or remember any of the famous Court rulings that most of us remember from high school history! How many different ways are these people going to pull the blinders over their eyes and create fanciful excuses for Palin's lack of knowledge and experience? It would be funny if it weren't such a frightening thought to think she COULD wind up serving as the President of the United States!

First thoughts: The stakes for Palin

The Honest Politician - New York — Thu, 02 Oct 2008 14:03:23 GMT

Biden better keep his cool and produce "no gaffes"..Palin can bomb every question, and if Biden does not perform how he should, the spotlight may shed from her to his error's...Biden, the only way to control the media is to stay out of the spotlight.

politicaladattacks.blogspot.com

First thoughts: The stakes for Palin

Class Warrior, D.C. — Thu, 02 Oct 2008 14:04:50 GMT

It's McInsane's temperment thatshowed last week when he freaked out over the economic crisis, too. The guy is not thesteady-Eddie, bolted-down-tight type Obama showed himself to be last week. Besides beingacoldfish to Barack, the guy just seems to get frantic when the chips are down.

First thoughts: The stakes for Palin

gmhussein, Jupiter, Fl — Thu, 02 Oct 2008 14:05:14 GMT

How in heavens name can you compare Sarah Palin to Joe Biden with a straight face?

The difference between these two is huge. She knows little and understands less, what's even more disturbing is she doesn't know she is ignorant, much like the Idiot-in Chief we have now. The gaffes Joe Biden makes are miniscule by comparison to what she doesn't know.
Anyone who would consider voting for her now or in the future is either not paying attention or would never vote for a Democrat no matter what color he or she may be.

First thoughts: The stakes for Palin

sotiredofignorance — Thu, 02 Oct 2008 14:07:20 GMT

Sarah Palin reminds me of college students I used to have that came to class unprepared for essay tests, but figured they could b.s. their way through it. They always failed tests, just like she is failing her test of whether she is ready to be VP.

I do remind people that the only memorable line from the primary debates from both parties came from Joe Biden. "Noun, verb, 9/11.

First thoughts: The stakes for Palin

Erik, Mechanicsburg, PA — Thu, 02 Oct 2008 14:07:41 GMT

"So, 35 days left and McCain is in Iowa? Why put McCain in the wrong state, at the wrong place?"

Nobody PUT him there. He just WANDERED there. My senile grandfather does that, too.

First thoughts: The stakes for Palin

Full Moon — Thu, 02 Oct 2008 14:07:53 GMT

First thoughts: The stakes for Palin

Jes S.C. — Thu, 02 Oct 2008 14:08:13 GMT

If McCain always showed leadership than why he did not get up to speak on the senate floor to counter his rival? Instead grumpy acted childish again as reported by many in the press. Is this the leader we want or is this the leader we need. We should all be afraid of Mr McNasty.

McCain will have Putin of Russia singing to the old Beach Boys song...bomb...bomb...bomb..USA.

Think before you press that button or blacken in that circle. But please vote.

First thoughts: The stakes for Palin

sbv creswell, oregon — Thu, 02 Oct 2008 14:08:16 GMT

"The last thing McCain needs is for Obama to make inroads with older voters in Florida." once again the msm is determining the makeup of the electorate - what group is for this candidate, what group is for that candidate; ala the good ol' lying gop's divide and conquer. yes, many many of the paid obama campaign staff, from field office coordinators to the state level, are young. idealistic and hardworking all. but take a closer look at the voters who, as volunteers, are out canvassing, walking the streets, talking to their neighbors, phone banking - they are gray and white older voters, many many of us volunteering and actually working, and not just voting for a candidate for the very first time! as one, i am just another example of those who have voted in many elections; yet see this election as truly the most important election in our lifetime to bring into office our choice for president we fervently think will begin to solve the many, complex and inter-connected problems for our children and grandchildren to live in this great country and enjoy the security and prosperity and dreams we have had - and this includes the "older voters in florida."

First thoughts: The stakes for Palin

Don Gnome, Charlotte, NC — Thu, 02 Oct 2008 14:08:34 GMT

The media will make sure to make it about Palin.

Obama and Biden disagree on coal, no sweat, skip it.

But if Palin disagree with McCain on one itsy bitsy thing look out!

Lets face it the media wants to beat the crap out of McCain, but they want to destroy Palin.

First thoughts: The stakes for Palin

CA Voter NOT For McCain/Palin — Thu, 02 Oct 2008 14:09:04 GMT

One question. when does McCain blow his top? I say the next debate will do it. When Palin gives the same innocuous answers at tonights debate and the two slide even farther back in the polls McCain will become even more desperate. Really people who looks more Presidential?

First thoughts: The stakes for Palin

Eric, Salinas, CA — Thu, 02 Oct 2008 14:09:21 GMT

I hope that the Des Moines Register gets some self respect and reverses it's endorsement of "Arrogant & Ignorant" McCain. What an indiot he was to go in and do an arrogant interview with their reporter and be totally insolent.

I really liked the Daily Show and Colbert Report last night. The shows were the best ever, it sure will be sad when the campaign ends and they don't have such great material handed to them. I loved how Jon showed a clip of Katie asking "Simpleton" Sarah about Rick Davis and conflict of interest and the simpleton girl just couldn't give an answer. I loved how Stephen mocked how the McCain campaign put out an article that he had won the debate half a day before it ever started. Jon and team really ripped the clueless girl a new one and tonight Joe Biden gets to take her down for the count. There should be no doubts about her total lack of everything that it takes to be the VP after tonight.

Go Obama/Biden 08/12!

First thoughts: The stakes for Palin

Jesse M, St. Paul, MN — Thu, 02 Oct 2008 14:12:01 GMT

Isn't it pretty much impossible to understand how there can be people who haven't yet decided how they'll vote? But getting back to Sarah: She's another McCain publicity stunt that is backfiring. Sarah is the star high school quarterback who was dumped into a SuperBowl. It's not right for her, it's not right for America. Sarah didn't campaign long and hard (as the major candidates did)...she hasn't earned a shot at the White House. I'm not a political person, but if I were...I can tell you I'd never let my party, whichever one it is, cloud my judgment to the extent it would have to be clouded to vote for someone as ill-prepared as Sarah.

First thoughts: The stakes for Palin

Rob G, Stratford, CT — Thu, 02 Oct 2008 14:12:17 GMT

So what exactly does success in this debate look like for Sarah Palin? Does she just need to speak in complete sentences?

Let's face it, unless the McCain campaign sends an impostor in her place, she is not going to be able to answer questions in a way that make the general public comfortable with her as a candidate. Moreover, based on her interviews, she doesn't appear to perform well under pressure and this will be the most pressure-packed night of her life.

The right will love her, the left will hate her, so it's just the middle she needs to win over and she doesn't have the smarts to do it.

First thoughts: The stakes for Palin

Shanm, Seattle, WA — Thu, 02 Oct 2008 14:12:49 GMT

Obama has showed his respect to McCain while McCain tries to belittle Obama. In this process he belittled his own image. Though old by age, his maturity does not seem to so called 'experience'. Though young, Obama possesses all the required characteristics of a great leader. No wonder his numbers are going up.

I was a McCain supporter sometime ago. Shanm, Seattle

First thoughts: The stakes for Palin

twocanpete — Thu, 02 Oct 2008 14:13:20 GMT

http://twocanpete.blogspot.com/
The really interesting part of this debate will be counting the number of lies that Palin tells.

First thoughts: The stakes for Palin

Ian — Thu, 02 Oct 2008 14:13:35 GMT

Palin's popularity probably can't go down any further because those who still like her consist of the GOP base. She can say all the stupid things she wants to them and they'll simply claim it was fault of that black PBS moderator Gwen Ifall with her pro-Obama book tossing gotchas.

First thoughts: The stakes for Palin

Class Warrior, D.C. — Thu, 02 Oct 2008 14:15:00 GMT

I wouldn't beSara Palin for the world right now. Surely, in her heart, she knows she's out of her league, andno amount of coaching will make her look good tonight. This woman hasto havea sinking feeling all day today, knowing she's not ready for prime time, probably wondering how in hell she got herself into this situation. I know we libs are supposed to feel contemptuous of Palin, but I really feel sort of badly for her right now...She's got to know she's neither intelligent nor prepared enough for a test like this, before the nation and the world. I'd die of fright myself, in her position...

First thoughts: The stakes for Palin

Joe, MN — Thu, 02 Oct 2008 14:15:06 GMT

More ridiculous, nonsensical punditry from MSNBC.

The expectations for Sister Sarah are not that high because pundits have spent the last 4 weeks "making apologies" for her serious inadquacies, and covering up for her obvious stupidity. She isn't qualified to be VP, much less President -- so please stop making out like she is. Nothing this woman could possibly say tonight will change many minds on her qualifications.

So listen up First Read....if you want to be taken seriously as a news team...please stop making excuses for such a pitiful candidate. If you want to get to the winner's circle in politics, you have to go through the fire. If I were Joe Biden, I would take every opportunity tonight to point out that she has no clue what she is talking about. Damn the Torpedos and forget these silly accusations about being sexist.

Let her have it, Joe!

First thoughts: The stakes for Palin

Charles Barone — Thu, 02 Oct 2008 14:15:12 GMT

My sense is that all Palin has to do is not look as bad as she did with Katie Couric (not hard, but nothing is impossible) and it will be considered a win. The media wants a race, and Obama has the momentum, so what the media brought up, then brought down, they will bring up again unless Palin is really, really bad.

First thoughts: The stakes for Palin

BJ, CA — Thu, 02 Oct 2008 14:15:19 GMT

It's funny how we can see John blasting the base in the evening and in the morning sounding so sweet and coddling...fatigue is a game changer to the McCain wreck that is comin' around the bend...

We need Obama/Biden even more now...

First thoughts: The stakes for Palin

Terry, IN — Thu, 02 Oct 2008 14:15:32 GMT

She's cramming for the final exam when she hasn't taken the class.

First thoughts: The stakes for Palin

Coy Reese, Shady Spring, West Virginia — Thu, 02 Oct 2008 14:15:57 GMT

Governor Palin is most likely a very nice lady with whom I probably disagree with on most points. However, I feel John Mc Cain exercised extremely poor judgement in picking her as his running mate. She is clearly not ready for prime time, through no fault of her own. I am sure she was dazzled by the offer and Mc Cain sought to inject some life into his lack lustre campaign, which has failed to this day to distinguish him from George W Bush. The horrific results over the past two weeks from the Mc Cain/Bush economy have destroyed whatever chance Mc Cain may or may not have had from for being elected to the office his mentor currently holds. I trust Gov. Palin can make it through tonight's "debate" and the next four weeks after which she can return to Alaska to continue to gaze at Russia from her kitchen window.

First thoughts: The stakes for Palin

Aaron Wadsworth — Thu, 02 Oct 2008 14:16:43 GMT

Governor Palin is in this debate for political viability at this point. She is the butt of every stand-up in the U.S. and has reached the perception of laughably unqualified for anyone left of center. Unless she hits a home run in the debate, she is going to be the biggest drag on the Republican ticket since the memory of Watergate on the Ford administration's '76 bid. Gov. Palin has shown herself to be a trainwreck of an interview, has values too far right of much of the majority voter base, and has a resume more akin to a candidate for a 1st term Congresswoman than that of the American Vice-Presidency. If she gaffs in the debate (as in, WHEN she gaffs), she should do the G.O.P. a favor and get out of the way. She is to this election what an Earnest movie is to the Cannes Festival.

First thoughts: The stakes for Palin

JTatEHT — Thu, 02 Oct 2008 14:17:33 GMT

Your comments on McCain’s temperament are more to the point than anything else. McCain does not represent a third Bush term, but rather a third Cheney term. McCain is not a Republican candidate, not a Conservative candidate, but a Neo-Conservative candidate. We should be marching forward into the 21st century rather than returning to the 20th so that McCain can fight and win another Vietnam, so that he can fight and win another cold war

First thoughts: The stakes for Palin

Tzalaran — Thu, 02 Oct 2008 14:21:01 GMT

The meeting with the Des Moines register highlights everything that is wrong with the McCain campaign. He hasn't been himself, but instead has tried to put forth an image that isn't him because of how GW Bush beat him in 2000. It highlights his waffling on the maverick theme, because his maverick credentials haven't been justified in the past 8 years. He also is flat out wrong on too many issues like health care, social security, energy policy, and education.

But the biggest issue is that his temperament was not played right by his own campaign. after the speeches at the DNC, the McCain campaign tried to prove that he wasn't a firebrand and was calm, cool, and collected. That is so opposed to who he really is that the facade had no chance of lasting. Honesty is always the best policy, and by coming out and taking the issue of temperament head on they could have turned his fiery nature into a positive. by attempting to hide it and show that the accusations were wrong it just made the time when he does blow up and get argumentative a case study for the Obama campaign.

Just too many obstacles because the McCain campaign from the outset didn't understand what the american people wanted, and they had no clue on how to give what america needs right now.

you can't put a price on Honesty and Integrity.

http://horneddevil.proboards98.com/index.cgi?board=iduspolitics

First thoughts: The stakes for Palin

Glen Huntsberger, Santa Rosa, CA — Thu, 02 Oct 2008 14:21:08 GMT

Once somebody loses his or her credibility after making a great first impression, it is virtually impossible to regain it. Public skepticism has a long memory. The best Sarah Palin can hope for in tonight's debate is to resurrect her credibility for her stage in Alaska. She's lost her credibility on the national stage for the duration.

First thoughts: The stakes for Palin

Mark,Seattle — Thu, 02 Oct 2008 14:21:33 GMT

I can't believe I'm writing this:

This election year the deck is stacked against McCain. That is sad. This man is not being given a fair chance, because he is running on the republican
ticket. Maybe that's fate ? who knows ? I am not a fan of Bush, and I don't see McCain and Bush as one.

On the other hand, I was a Clinton backer. I still feel very strongly that she should be the nominee.
I like what I hear from Obama only because his and Hiallrys ideas were so close, but there is MAJOR trust factor that is missing with him.

I feel Obama will win , but it will be close. I am trying to get use to that idea but really having a hard time with it. His past and present connections with people like Rev Wright and Ayers make me very afraid of what he really thinks and will do.

So as this election draws close I don't know who to vote for. Still undecided
Karl in PA (Sent Thursday, October 02, 2008 9:49 AM)
******************************************************
Karl,
I can understand where you are coming from completely. My only advice to you is to vote on the issues that you support. Every single politician in the US has has some shady associations.McCain,Palin,Biden,Obama and the Clintons all have a few skeletons in there closet. It would be completely naive for anyone to think differently. Unfortunately they all would not be where they are with out cozying up to some people who's ethics are questionable at best but unfortunately we only have two choices for President. If you truly support Hillary Clintons policies than I think you only have one real choice seeing that McCain has adopted the polar opposite in these last 8 years. But in the end this is America and you have the right to vote for whoever you want to for whatever reason. I appreciate the fact that you give this decision so much wieght and thought. Good luck on your decision I know it's a tough one.

First thoughts: The stakes for Palin

Cross in Margate, Fl — Thu, 02 Oct 2008 14:22:30 GMT

Ok. Im thinking that it's time for some of you to start thinking logically and realize that if this country is going to improve, then we need to stake claim to it, and act responsibly. That means that we need to heed the calls to action. Gone are the days when you just did your thing and forget everyone else. What happens to everyboy else, will affect you too, perhaps not at the moment, but eventually it will. Bad schools? Maybe not your neighborhood school, but remember, your kids are going to leave your house someday. You family has healthcare coverage? Great! Guess what? When your children are old enough, they will have to get coverage on their own, but what happens if they cant afford it? Can mom and dad continue carrying that burden long term? Social Security... We know how that is not going to work for a lot of us when we reach the retirement age. Look at all of the senior citizens that are still working. Some do it because they have worked all their lives, but for the most part, they cant afford to pay bills, health care, medications, etc. and they actually get a SS check. Imagine what will NOT be there for us. Omg, I'm typing my life away, and I havent even covered what my thoughts are. I'm a republican, and I dont have issues with any of my republican friends voting their convictions... Here is what I feel though. The country is hurting. Things dont look good. I dont agree with EVERYTHING Sen. Obama believes in, but he is the only person I see that stands for something, and McCain might say he puts "country first", but Obama is the one showing it. Change for the sake of it doesnt mean much, but in order to have meaningful change, its going to take all of us; Americans! to make sure that change does occur. Vote for change you can believe in, but dont sit on the sidelines. GET INVOLVED! Help your neighbor, help the kids that you have influnce over, help the less fortunate. That's what Jesus would told us to do in the first place!

First thoughts: The stakes for Palin

Diane from Illinois — Thu, 02 Oct 2008 14:23:02 GMT

Gwen Ifill should be replaced as moderator in tonight's debate because she has a vested interest in a victory for the Democrats due to her pro-Obama book release.

Palin's first order of business and the very first sentence out of her mouth tonight should bring that fact to light and express her thoughts about it.
Full Moon
******************************************************
You are so full of crap. The Republican party AGREED to having Gwen moderate this debate. They also knew about her book deal since July 23rd, so don't give me this "she isn't impartial" crap. Do you also know she hasn't even written the chapter concerning Obama? The book is about black people and politics.......she's black, so is Obama........so you ASSUME she's pro-Obama? Just like right-wingers who ASSUME since you are pro-choice you are pro-abortion. Get a life Full Moon. The bar has been set so low for Palin that all she has to do is show up and you'd delcare her as a "winner". She's an idiot and unqualified and you know it.

First thoughts: The stakes for Palin

Sarah C. — Thu, 02 Oct 2008 14:23:31 GMT

If Sarah Palin was capable of pulling herself together and delivering a good performance, wouldn't she have done so already? She has failed miserable in interviews on CBS for four days in a row. She did better in Alaska, because she understood the issues she was debating. For the first time last night, while watching her deflate over the Supreme Court question, I felt sorry for her instead of angry. John McCain deserves the blame for choosing a patently inappropriate candidate for Vice President. Palin should have declined, but she clearly didn't know what she was getting into.

First thoughts: The stakes for Palin

Pete King Sergeant Bluff, Iowa — Thu, 02 Oct 2008 14:24:59 GMT

You'll watch God's Holy Spirit at work tonight in Sarah Palin, and gasp. God is not intimidated by the coarse talk and sin-gendered fear of the left. "Be not deceived, God is not mocked, whatsoever you sow, that shall you also reap." "They that sow in tears shall reap in joy."

Tonight there will be joy in the heavens and unbridled uphoria here on eart. Palin will shine!

First thoughts: The stakes for Palin

Obama Is Best For America — Thu, 02 Oct 2008 14:25:34 GMT

McCain IS NOT READY TO LEAD. Why?

1. His reckless choice of Sarah Palin. She is an empty suit ----- cute ----- but EMPTY. Period. She is arrogant to think she could 'apply' for the job of VP.

2. His temperament is disgraceful. How could he ever interact with others that disagree with him?
In his words, he said he wanted to become a DICTATOR!

3. He knows nothing about the economy. Obama can match him ten times over in foreign policy, as we saw in the debate.

Joe Biden, with or without gaffes, is a perfect partner for Obama. THIS IS THE TEAM TO LEAD THIS COUNTRY.

VOTERS BE SMART !!!! McCain & Palin are NOT CAPABLE of leading this country.

OBAMA/BIDEN '08

First thoughts: The stakes for Palin

Katie Mac, Eugene, Oregon — Thu, 02 Oct 2008 14:25:51 GMT

I'm going to be late to work, but I feel the strong need to say this. AND...it's not on the right blog, but here I go: This morning Chuck Todd said neither McCain nor Obama EVER speak about creating new jobs. And I said to myself "WTF?" While I don't follow McCain very much because I think he is an i%$##, I follow Obama closely. Obama speaks about creating new jobs in just about every campaign rally he speaks at, including this morning in Grand Rapids, Michigan. He speaks about new jobs to build energy efficient cars, wind turbines, solar panels, etc. He talks about not giving tax breaks to companies who outsource their labor to workforces in foreign companies. Doesn't Chuck Todd realize stopping that practice alone will bring jobs back to America??? Gotta run....

First thoughts: The stakes for Palin

Danielle, Rochester, NY — Thu, 02 Oct 2008 14:26:53 GMT

What is McCain doing in Iowa?? Why is McCain running TV ads in upstate NY? I saw one this morning on local TV in Rochester. Does he really think he has a chance at winning NY? This seems like a total waste of money with 30+ days to go. For all the talk of Hillary's campaign being inept, I think McCain's team has won that mantle hands down.

First thoughts: The stakes for Palin

Paul Miller, Woodbridge, VA — Thu, 02 Oct 2008 14:26:54 GMT

Palin will do well tonight, but it won't matter. She defined herself via those recent interviews.

McCain's temperament is a huge, underlying campaign issue. His temperament isn't sound. It never was, and he can't help himself from displaying that lacking temperament now.

First thoughts: The stakes for Palin

Deborah Greenlawn, NY — Thu, 02 Oct 2008 14:44:04 GMT

Why in IOWA? Another great move by the McCain/Palin handlers.

Boy, Bill Clinton sulking is embarrassing enough, but if at 72 you still act like a spoiled, rude, petulant child, it's REALLY unattractive. I'd say GROW UP,but TOO LATE.

First thoughts: The stakes for Palin

SarahB, LR,AR — Thu, 02 Oct 2008 14:44:33 GMT

I hope that Sen. Biden will show more respect for Gov. Palin than Sen. Obama did when debating Sen. McCain. It was down right disrespectful to address Sen. McCain by his first name. I think that this act speaks a lot of Sen. Obama's character. I would not vote for Obama if he was the last person on this planet. Personally, I don't know anyone who would. God Bless McCain/Palin!!!!

First thoughts: The stakes for Palin

Voting McCain in Ocala, FL — Thu, 02 Oct 2008 14:45:13 GMT

I guess Obama's blatant lies about McCain's position on Social Security are helping him with senior citizens in Florida. Good thing he's the candidate who is so above it all and won't stoop to dishonest attacks.

First thoughts: The stakes for Palin

Jim Doe Ft.Lauderdale, Fl. — Thu, 02 Oct 2008 14:45:14 GMT

I'm sorry, but she is embarrassing. I think that Biden is in a difficult position, however. He can take her apart and make her look silly, but can't do it without looking mean or condenscending.I'm afraid that he and the moderator will be mindful of this, and go all softball on her.If you can't take the heat...oh, thats a sexist remark...

First thoughts: The stakes for Palin

Bohdan Szejner — Thu, 02 Oct 2008 14:45:31 GMT

Something in the way Sen. Obama looks scares me. There is this "Osama" look that seems to come from the times of Mecca and Medina. I do not trust a word of what he says. It's all scripted to the tune "Change we must." Who must change? What must change? For me it is our immorality that must change! For Sen. Obama ... he just wants to change from being senator to president! Beyond that, everything goes. And this is in his look, and this scares me!

First thoughts: The stakes for Palin

McCant, Chicago, IL, — Thu, 02 Oct 2008 14:45:47 GMT

Let's see what happens tonight. I wouldn't be suprised, if Palin performs poorly, that some kind of family emergency comes up and she has to drop out of the race. That will be our October Surprise!

First thoughts: The stakes for Palin

Brad, Chicago, Il — Thu, 02 Oct 2008 14:46:26 GMT

I think McCain;s recent disdain for Obama has come across in a recent ad when the campaign referred to him as "Mr. Obama".

Not seen any media comment much on this, but it sure shows a lack of respect by not referring to him as Senator Obama. I've not heard anyone refer to Sen. McCain as Mr. McCain, or former President Clinton as "Mr. Clinton".

First thoughts: The stakes for Palin

Time .... to make a change. Ch- ch- Changes. — Thu, 02 Oct 2008 14:46:45 GMT

"We let Sarah be Sarah. She's smart, she's tough, she's been in debates before," McCain told "Fox & Friends" on Fox News Channel. "The American people ... the more they see of her, the more they love her, and I'm confident of that at the end."

So McSame, you think we love Gov Failin'? Have you seen the polls on her?

Groundcontrol to Senator John...
Your circuits dead, there's something wrong
Can you hear me Senator John?
Can you hear me Senator John?
Can you hear me Senator John?

First thoughts: The stakes for Palin

Tired of the Liberal Whining, Tampa, FL — Thu, 02 Oct 2008 14:47:19 GMT

Why is no one commenting about Obama's total lack of professional experience himself?? For Christ's sake! Are you people ignorant and blind? The guy is lawyer! He was taught to ly and wrangle for a living. Oh...wait...he never had a real job. Are you all that foolish? Wait! Yes, most idealic liberals are. Never mind...

What has Obama actually done in federal government life besides write three books - all in preparation for his campaign. Who has time for that??? Ahhhh...THAT'S why he was never in the Senate for votes. He was out writing his own books and getting rich on hype. What a laugh!

I especially liked Obama's comment during the debate where he said he wanted to put much more money into education because China just did a successful space walk and we needed to make sure our children kept up with technology? HELLO! I guess his minority grant funded education at "Ivy League" Columbia and then Harvard Law School didn't teach him that we've only had about a HUNDRED space walks and a few trips to the moon since the early Sixties??? WTF?

You people are all worried about Palin because you are angry that McCain actually chose a woman as his runningmate when the party-appointed "we're the change agents" liberal Democrats went politics as usual and chose a 35 year life-long insider white male politician instead. Wah! wah! waaah!

First thoughts: The stakes for Palin

The Truth — Thu, 02 Oct 2008 14:48:30 GMT

I too am tired of Obama and his name being forced down my throat by the media. My guess is that this will backfire badly. He is relying on lots of new voters, mainly students and the 10's of thousands of fraudulent registrations from ACORN. He may well get the ACORN votes, but the newly registered voters are in groups which don't turn up to vote anyway, and those that may have done will be so tired of hearing about Obama and how he is going to win in a landslide that they will probably just stay home.

First thoughts: The stakes for Palin

The Truth — Thu, 02 Oct 2008 14:49:03 GMT

A former FBI agent recently stated that Obama would not even pass a backround check to become an Agent because of his radical associations. This should be all that's necessary to disqualify him from any chance of becoming President of the United States. It's freightening that he has gotten this far.

First thoughts: The stakes for Palin

JM, Tampa Bay, FL — Thu, 02 Oct 2008 14:49:21 GMT

The fact of the matter is regardless of how McShame’s camp is ‘prepping’ McPalin for this debate, she is STILL the WRONG person to run this country if perchance McShame croaks while in office. EVEN IF she can memorize all this data, and give the answers at the right timing with the acting of a movie star, THIS STILL DOES NOT QUALIFY HER FOR THE JOB OF THE PRESIDENCY IF perchance McShame croaks while in office.
Just because you get an “A” on an exam DOES NOT make you all of a sudden know how to deal with certain issues and provide the right and sound judgment to make the correct decision. And no, this woman does NOT have the necessary experience to, again, make sound judgment and WISE decisions. And speaking of experience, it is NOTHING when you do NOT have the moral character and SOUND judgment to make WISE decisions!! Example is McShame!
To be president of this country, one must have moral integrity, intelligence, grit, SOUND judgment, compassion and understanding for his fellowmen especially for the large majority of low income and middle class, knowledge and complete understanding of the issues in the country, and 3 -6 years experience of working with these issues. Barak Obama have ALL these qualifications. McShame does NOT, except for grit! His 26 years experience does NOT count if he hasn’t learned from past mistakes which he has so many. Even if we just look at his recent horrible decisions. Case close.

To Gwent Ifill: I urgently ask that you THOROUGHLY EXAMINE AND PROD OUT THE TRUTH AND KNOWLEDGE OF MCPALIN. THERE SHOULD BE NO SHORTCUTS OR ANY SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS GIVEN TO HER. IF SHE WANTS THIS JOB THEN BY ALL MEANS SHE SHOULD BE SUBJECTED TO CRITICAL QUESTIONINGS. BECAUSE GOD FORBID IF MCSHAME EVER WINS THIS ELECTION AND CROAKS/ HAVE A STROKE/ OR GET FULL ALZHEIMERS and she has to (**shiver**cringe**) pick up that 3 a.m. call, she better be able to handle it with right precision and competence. (Okay, no matter what, I can't accept this person as my president - she spooks the heck out of me )

And to Joe Biden - show that you are the right man for the job - because YOU MOST DEFINITELY ARE!!! Your supporters got your back!!

Florida for Obama/Biden!!!

First thoughts: The stakes for Palin

Georgia Buchholtz — Thu, 02 Oct 2008 14:49:47 GMT

Sarah does best with a live audience, I know because she is my Governor and have voted for her from my Mayor to being my Governor. Give her a chance everyone! She is the one for American's!! She will work hard for you and I. I KNOW this becasue I have experienced it first hand! We can't elect Obama. The second most liberal Senator, a flip flopper and no economic budget cuts. He stated that he intends to have $800 million in program increases! That money will come from you and I!! Clinton started this economic crisis, Obama took the second highest amount of money from Fanie May. I am so balled by the numbers of fellow Americans that just can't see this. I am voting for McCain/Palin and talking to anyone who will listen too. Too much is at stake!

First thoughts: The stakes for Palin

Jim Fl — Thu, 02 Oct 2008 14:50:17 GMT

The format of a debate will be much easier for her than a one on one interview . First of all there will be approx. 12 questions asked . Palin will get to hear Biden's answer on 6 of them , allowing her time to organize and formulate her response.If she gets asked an energy question first that will leave only 5 questions which she must fly solo on . Nine minutes out of 90 . If she stays on the attack , gets in a couple of scripted zingers, and charms the audience she may well be declared the upset winner .

First thoughts: The stakes for Palin

gl, IL — Thu, 02 Oct 2008 14:50:37 GMT

It doesn’t matter how well Palin does the media will find fault, ridicule, criticize everything she says. That is a given looking back at their so called journalism over the past month. If Obama wins it will be won in a large part by the media and their apparent open season on McCain and Palin and almost sickening bias reporting of Obama. It is apparent that bad Obama is till off limits.

First thoughts: The stakes for Palin

MSierra, SF — Thu, 02 Oct 2008 14:50:48 GMT

John McCain has been given sufficient rope

He's now in the process of hanging himself

An Elitist is someone who's FOR YOUR BOSS
A Populist supports the WORKERS

An elitist supports CORPORATIONS
A Populist supports the MIDDLE CLASS

John McCain, More of the Same

First thoughts: The stakes for Palin

Pappy B, Jensen Beach FL — Thu, 02 Oct 2008 14:51:35 GMT

I want someone above the average 'Joe/Jane six-pack' as a vice president, a well educated experienced person. If our founding fathers were average we would still be a British Colony.

First thoughts: The stakes for Palin

Alice Barnes, Louisville, KY — Thu, 02 Oct 2008 14:51:55 GMT

McCain picked Palin as his choice for VP so when he fails, he has her to blame as being unprepared.

First thoughts: The stakes for Palin

Thu, 02 Oct 2008 14:52:22 GMT

These comments amaze me! For a world full of "accepting, tolerant" people, there sure is a lot of hate flowing. If you vote Obama you will have no one to blame but yourself when you go deeper into debt for expenses that aren't really yours. If you vote McCain/Palin at least there would be a chance of change. I know, I know... you think they aren't ready. Seriously, what better type of candidate to hold the positions? The reason the US is so crazy out of control right now is because we always elect the elite, prepared politicians. Let's give change a chance and maybe we'll see some of our money come back to us with McCain/Palin.

First thoughts: The stakes for Palin

JohnWinNC — Thu, 02 Oct 2008 14:53:18 GMT

Palin will again charm the audience with her ability to read lines, throw out barbs and impress for success. However, Joe Biden is quite passionate and inspiring as well. The two of them will present VP choices that are much alike in style, but much different in substance. To me, if the public appeal is played to a draw, then depth of knowledge, real-world experience and "issues" will make the difference. On that score, I predict a Biden win. Palin will do herself proud, but it will not be enough to show up Biden and not enough to save McCain's butt - not this time!