First thoughts: Needing a game-changer

Chuck, NY — Tue, 07 Oct 2008 13:25:15 GMT

Good luck tonight Senator Obama. Dust off the ‘Hope’ message and stump speech from earlier in the year. We need it again.

First thoughts: Needing a game-changer

dl, exeter, nh — Tue, 07 Oct 2008 13:25:41 GMT

they lied to us about wmd
they lied to us about Palin's readiness and brains
they lied to us about Katrina
they lied to us about Presidential signing statements
they lied to us about the economy
they lied to us about Libby
they lied to us about being greeted as Liberators
they lied to us about mushroom clouds
they lied to us about Gonzales
they lied to us about global warming
they lied to us about the fundamentals of our economy being strong
they lied to us about judicial appointments
they lied to us about abu ghraib
they lied to us about secret prison camps
they lied to us about "mission accomplished"
they lied to us about closed door energy policy meetings
they lied to us about Afghanistan
they lied to us about lobbyists writing their economic proposals
they lied to us

they lied to us

they lied to us

same lying team
same lying tactics

9th year

throw McCain and Palin out on their a$$es.

America get angry

...for being lied to... still...

throw these bums out! NOW!

First thoughts: Needing a game-changer

jaycee, Ventura, CA — Tue, 07 Oct 2008 13:26:49 GMT

Isn’t a “team” of mavericks a lot like a herd of cats? If you’re considering voting Republican this year, how the heck do you even know what you’re getting? You’ve got the whole Bush/Cheney crowd running former maverick John McCain’s campaign, pushing hard for the bailout while keeping and extending tax cuts for the wealthy and corporations. These folks are at least familiar after the last eight years. Now we also have these new populist Republicans who totally oppose their own leadership’s bailout position as a socialist takeover of the economy. Well, which is it?

And how do you square all this empty rhetoric about tax cuts and getting government off the people’s back with the Republican track record? Republicans have been in control of both branches of congress for six of the last eight years and the executive branch for all eight. In that time they’ve presided over a dramatic expansion of government coupled with an equally dramatic decline in basic competence. They’ve run up a truly staggering national debt which we and our children now have to finance. How does that get government off our backs?

Why in the world would we want to put people in charge of our government who believe government is the problem? Doing a really bad job in office just bolsters their argument against any government involvement in helping us meet common social needs. Funny how as soon as Obama starts talking about redirecting the national investment to benefit the middle class, Republicans immediately start throwing accusations about income redistribution and class warfare. What do you think they’ve been doing for the past eight years? Where did all that money go? It‘s been redistributed upwards by the Bush/McCain tax policies.

Barack Obama earned his party’s nomination with a steady disciplined leadership style coupled with sound political strategy and hard work. We’ve seen Obama fully engaged in the public arena for a long time now, which is why the experience question is fading as a concern. John McCain’s leadership in the financial crisis has been riddled with contradictions and backtracking, and his party no longer agrees on a coherent philosophical framework by which to govern. In this election year that (R) on the ballot stands for (R)isky.

First thoughts: Needing a game-changer

the Pajama Pundit — Tue, 07 Oct 2008 13:27:21 GMT

It’s also worth pointing out that McCain’s negatives have increased as he’s gone on the attack against Obama.
********************************************************

No kidding. How could they not increase? He really sounds quite dickish.

Now the GOP in PA is saying that 'Obama is BFF with terrorists'. Keep it classy guys.

http://thepajamapundit.com/

First thoughts: Needing a game-changer

Paul Miller, Woodbridge, VA — Tue, 07 Oct 2008 13:29:53 GMT

McCain's game changer: he shows up tonight with the gloves off... and high heels on.

Face it. What could be a better last minute Hail Mary than John McCain strutting around a town hall in drag? I mean, who would even notice Obama was there?

First thoughts: Needing a game-changer

Brian M De — Tue, 07 Oct 2008 13:35:37 GMT

I will make them famous you will know their names. Gee Maverick you have not spilled the beans thus far so why in the heck should anyone believe you now? You and that Twit you chose as a running mate lie like rugs.. Gop Morning Joke is disgusting I almost put my foot through the TV hearing that lying wimp!!!! You know I guess he forgot how Rev. Wright played out in the media for 2 weeks straight day and night and fix fux faux news ran it for a month. Nobody called Palin a dummy she just showed she was a Parroting Half wit.

First thoughts: Needing a game-changer

Reno Will — Tue, 07 Oct 2008 13:37:47 GMT

John McCain fans. Got any guts? If so prove it by looking up Rolling Stones story about him soon to come out. I'm a former republican...yea, a Nixon fan and Reagan admirer. I've read two books by Obama and another about him....all this after he beat Mrs. Clinton (thank goodness). I admit I've never been a McCain fan, especially after Keating but this article is revealing. I'm voting for Obama. You may not but you should know who you're voting for. This challenge is not to you rascists out there in either party who are beyond learning.

First thoughts: Needing a game-changer

John, OH — Tue, 07 Oct 2008 13:37:51 GMT

Some real news would be when (if) the McCain campaign actually articulated (may be to much to ask) or just said something about the real issues.

First thoughts: Needing a game-changer

Ron Indiana — Tue, 07 Oct 2008 13:38:03 GMT

Yes, I am very troubled by the economy. In fact, I believe we could be heading for a full-scale depression. But what troubles me just as much is the McCain/Palin campaign. Last night I watched the McCain crowd lash out at the media and Obama. Shouting "Terrorist" and "Kill him". There is absolutely no place for that in American politics!! That kind of crap may happen in third world countries, but not here, surely not here. What further enraged me is that McCain MADE NO EFFORT TO STOP IT. IN FACT HE PROVOKED IT WITH COMMENTS LIKE "Who is Obama really?" Barack has been vetted by the Clintons, the Republicans the media. Has been on the campaign trail for 20 months and what we see is what we get. An intelligent young man who cares about this country, a Christian, a person who really does put this country first.

For McCain to play on division and hatred is worse than shameful. It has no place in politics. This is reason enough not to vote for McCain/Palin!

First thoughts: Needing a game-changer

matt — Tue, 07 Oct 2008 13:38:54 GMT

McCain will only lose ground if he sticks to an angry storyline all night. Voters want to hear about the economy and how the candidates will get us out of the current mess. That's why Obama is ahead - he's the only one talking about it.

http://www.political-buzz.com/

First thoughts: Needing a game-changer

cindy, Las Vegas, Nv — Tue, 07 Oct 2008 13:40:39 GMT

Thoughts and prayers to Jill Biden and her family.

First thoughts: Needing a game-changer

Clara Kansas City, MO — Tue, 07 Oct 2008 13:40:52 GMT

Pat, Boston - WOW, what an exciting finish.

I am looking forward to the debate tonight; but I perceive, with early voting already started - McCain is down more than the polls indicate.

The energy expended on Palin seems misplaced. Why, 28 days out are spending this much effort on the Base? If she were so popular and smart a pick, why aren't you rolling her out in contested areas? It is just this type of tactical certitude that the voting public is sick of. She is the perfect pick for the base. I give that to McCain; but she has driven away the Independents and Women voters in droves. Ergo, she is a horrible pick. With over 500K Republicans changing their registration in this election and an undetermined number planning to vote outside the ticket, your VP pick HAD to speak to the middle. Palin is not that person.

I know one of the things I cannot stand about Bush is that he is, "resolute". I know Presidents and people make mistakes, that is life. But this inability to accept it, admit it and adjust is exactly why our country is in this ditch. Straight talk means accepting responsibility, making tough adjustments and moving forward. McCain simply doesn't have those abilities. It is so obvious he does not speak for the McCain campaign. I am not surprised that fact didn't resonate in the headlines. People just accept that he is not steering his own ship. I don't think that save his political future, but it is interesting. McCain going negative underscores his continued lack of principles. He is literally floundering and he has NO strategy. Of course, he would lead the country in this same half assed manner, that's not even a question. How much more can we take?

First thoughts: Needing a game-changer

Dand1212, Vancouver, Wa. — Tue, 07 Oct 2008 13:41:38 GMT

Finnaly, the Rebubics are paying the cost for a failed economic statagy that has always favored the rich since Ronnie Ray-guns first served a dish called trickle down, which has now become melt down. Americans can be very stupid when it comes to buying whatever their politicos are selling them. Foe years every time a Repubic got elected we lost money and health care advances on the railroads and still my stupid fellow employees somehow thought that we were doing just fine. Now at least one fourth of those unions are gone and more than half the employees are gone and the railroads suffered horrible losses as the industry was deregulated. Did folks in my industry get it? No! But they are getting it now.

First thoughts: Needing a game-changer

BJ, CA — Tue, 07 Oct 2008 13:42:51 GMT

McCain will play to his believed strengths..patriotism.
Driving home the fact that he and only he defended the country in time of need and honor and duty...
He'll openly challenge Obama's record on lack of military experience...and he'll allued to the economy as something that is behind the importance of America's purposes in the "WORLD ECONOMY"..we have faced more difficult times and did all right in the end...stress how he can solve it thru lower taxes and greater incentives for small businesses..
Obama must lecture McCain that we've heard this all before and that is the central core of the mess we are in today...Obama can back McCain into corner if he starts asking McCain specifics about the things he puts forward...There are no forward looking proposals from John McCain's "let it ride" or "fake to make it" sloganized form of Bush like politics...

We need Obama/Biden even more now.

First thoughts: Needing a game-changer

redneck joe — Tue, 07 Oct 2008 13:43:04 GMT

McCain a Maverick? NOT, more like a redneck trailer park idoit Gangsta!! Palin a Hockey Mom? more like a deadbeat redneck moose and ferret eating redneck juno portraying cheat on husband skank!! whew, got that out, thanks for listening!!lol.

First thoughts: Needing a game-changer

John, MI — Tue, 07 Oct 2008 13:44:13 GMT

All hope seems lost for 2008 thanks to the kool-aid

Palin/Romney 2012!

First thoughts: Needing a game-changer

Nancy Burt, Canton, MI — Tue, 07 Oct 2008 13:44:22 GMT

I have a major problem with Palin's attack dog role...In listening to excerpts of her speech making the six-degrees-of-separation argument against Obama with Ayers she labels Obama a "terrorist" to which you hear "Kill Him" shouted by members of the audience. It sounds like she is insighting a "lynching" --- there I said it.
I am 61 and lived through three historical events I hope never ever happen again. I find Palin's tactics almost criminal. I'm upset and I know this won't be posted .... but there

First thoughts: Needing a game-changer

jawillie, Philadelphia, PA. — Tue, 07 Oct 2008 13:44:38 GMT

>>>Look for Palin to continue in this attack dog role, which for her own politics should serve her well in the long term as she hopes to be the conservative hero for years to come.
==========
Please, Please, PLEASE MSM! Don't report any negative attack stories about McCain/Palin. Every time you report one of these hopeless, baseless attack, I donate more money to the Obama/Biden campaign. YOU GUYS ARE MAKING ME GO BROKE!

Then again, maybe that's the McCain/Palin campaign's real plan. Make all of us Obama supporters go broke donating to his campaign, then we won't have enough $$$ for gas to drive to the polls. Genius! Probably the only thing that has a chance in hell of working for them at this point.

Obama/Biden '08!

http://jawillie.blog.com

First thoughts: Needing a game-changer

Eric, Salinas, CA — Tue, 07 Oct 2008 13:44:56 GMT

As the polls go down for the Dumb and Dumber ticket so goes their campaign tactics. So sad that they can't bother to talk about the economy because they're more interested in talking point distractions.

We can blame the $150 billion on the recalcitrant House repugnant one's. Had they not balked the first time around then we wouldn't have seen all that pork get into the bailout bill.

Go Obama/Biden 08/12!

First thoughts: Needing a game-changer

Dave, Tn — Tue, 07 Oct 2008 13:44:57 GMT

"*** Throw the bums out?"

Probably the same reason there are no democrat controlled states in good economic shape, but people still lean toward democrats when the economy goes bad. OUR MEDIA LIES!!! So believe these guys and vote democrat and have your state turned into Michigan.

First thoughts: Needing a game-changer

gepa — Tue, 07 Oct 2008 13:45:41 GMT

mccain must be ready to snap, after all he thinks he is owed the whitehouse "even though he has 7 other houses & a Billionaire wife"--he threw everthing at Obama but the kitchen sink, what will he do now? Probably he will go back to the pow story. Tonight at the debate Obama should tell mccain about his skeletons "at least it will be to his face nt behind his back like wimpy mccain did.

First thoughts: Needing a game-changer

Joe Don, Topeka, KS — Tue, 07 Oct 2008 13:45:58 GMT

McCain's choice is more than one of electoral tactics. He's choosing to go so negative that he's poisoning a significant portion of the electorate against the next President, whoever wins the election. That's the opposite of "Country First."

Palin is compounding this anti-American streak by inciting her crowds to hatred and violence. She appears not to care when people in her audience shout "Kill them" or use racial slurs.

First thoughts: Needing a game-changer

Darrell, Pembroke Pines, Fl — Tue, 07 Oct 2008 13:47:59 GMT

I am certainly not a McCain fan. But I do believe that if elected he would do a better job then GWB. I am disappointed, but not surprised, by his nasty attacks on Obama. Many collegues have said that they do not know this McCain that they see now. I think that it is pathetic that he is in desperation mode.

First thoughts: Needing a game-changer

Tracy, Chesterton, Indiana — Tue, 07 Oct 2008 13:49:47 GMT

I wanted to state that I do not believe that it is the fault of either candidate when some putz in crowd of one of their rallies shouts ugly words for all to hear. However, just when Sen McCain overheard someone months ago use 'b*tch' when referring to Sen. Clinton, and a few days ago, clearly hearing a man in the crowd refer to Sen. Obama as 'terrorist,' it would be a nice reflection of, you know....character (just what Sen. McCain claims Obama doesn't have) to stop and confront those words and keep his supporters focused on the issue of the day. His campaign is not collecting thoughtful criticizms, they are trying to cash in on the irrational fear of uneducated citizens.

First thoughts: Needing a game-changer

Houston — Tue, 07 Oct 2008 13:49:55 GMT

And just curious, are voters grading the debates on a curve, meaning McCain and Palin have more to prove with voters while Obama-Biden get the "change" benefit of the doubt which then translates into easy debate poll victories?
--------------------------------------------------

Or maybe it was that McCain and Palin didn't have much to say and said it badly. I was amazed to hear Chuck Todd suggest on Chris Matthews show that the voters didn't seem to appreciate McCain's "agressiveness" the way they should have. I think they appreciated it for what it was: the rude behavior of an angry old man with nothing much to say but who wants to be president because it's his turn.

First thoughts: Needing a game-changer

Paul Miller, Woodbridge, VA — Tue, 07 Oct 2008 13:50:09 GMT

FR: "It’s also worth pointing out that McCain’s negatives have increased as he’s gone on the attack against Obama."

So, in other words, McCain has to convince people that Obama supports domestic terrorism and caused the current economic crisis, while coming across as something better than just a cranky desperate hothead.

First thoughts: Needing a game-changer

Independent in TN — Tue, 07 Oct 2008 13:50:27 GMT

what happened to McCain "the maverick"? . . . the one who promised a respectful campaign!!!

he has no plans whatsoever on either the ecomnomy or international relations . . . just more of the same Bush policies that got us here in the first place

so now he's going to drag the country into the mud for the next month in a desperate and greedy attempt to scare the country about voting for Obama because he's a "black", "muslim", "terrorist"

The John McCain I once admired has sold his soul . . . he has no honor

First thoughts: Needing a game-changer

Ben — Tue, 07 Oct 2008 13:50:51 GMT

Everybody needs to understand that regardless of who is actually at fault for this financial mess, it happened with a Republican administration in office which clearly means that the Republicans are at fault. That's really all you need to know about it. Who really cares about the actual facts involved? Also, since the Republicans are responsible for this, and since John McCain is a Republican, then he is also directly responsible. Even if Barrack Obama's economic plan was completely insane, all Americans should vote for him because he didn't directly create this problem the way George W. Bush and John McCain did. Obama conjures up feelings of hope and Americans should vote based on their feelings and not on the issues and credentials of the candidates.

Lastly, everybody should understand that the mainstream media plays no role in how anything in this country ever turns out. They are all objective, honest, straightforward people with no motive other than bringing the American public unbiased reports. They never incorporate any of their personal opinions in their reporting. They don't care about ratings which is why they're all so honest. Everybody should blindly trust them.

First thoughts: Needing a game-changer

Debra H, St. Petersburg, FL — Tue, 07 Oct 2008 13:50:53 GMT

Biden is "down"? You guys are sickening. He's not just sitting on his ass somewhere...he is dealing with the death of his mother in law. In typical fashion, MSNBC's crackpot team at "first-read" is looking for any way possible for McCain to come up with some way to pull this off. First paragraph: Are the voters grading the debates on a curve? That is the stupidest thing I have read today! NO, you bunch of brainiacs..we are the ones LISTENING to the debates and the answers. We are not tucked away in some cubicle somewhere trying to write headlines or come up with some clever little punchline.

First thoughts: Needing a game-changer

Barbara C. - Fort Lauderdale, FL — Tue, 07 Oct 2008 13:51:05 GMT

And I can tell that all of you...the Main Steam Media are sitting there with bated breath...hoping for that game changer tonight. I will tell you this...if McCain wins this debate...hands down...or hands in the air...I am still voting for Obama.

So...I think tonight with all the back and forth rhetoric on either side...is a great night to see a movie....

First thoughts: Needing a game-changer

BJ, CA — Tue, 07 Oct 2008 13:51:27 GMT

McBush has put their backs to the American people..
We are considered a slave society by the Republicans.
This must end and in November the people will speak with a voice so loud the Republicans will find themselves running to reinvent themselves before the next election. Ronald Reagan is a memory that Sarah Palin will never live up to..

First thoughts: Needing a game-changer

J. Ellis, Virginia — Tue, 07 Oct 2008 13:51:27 GMT

John McCain and Sarah Palin are headed down the wrong road in their negative campaigning. It is a complete turn-off to voters. The same is true with them trying to tie Obama to Bill Ayers.

At a Palin or McCain rally, it looks like and has the feel of a Klan rally. The hate mongering and rabble rousing is obvious and this country is better than that. I really believe that John McCain is better than that but desperation to win has driven him over the edge.

Barack Obama has said at his rallies that he would never tell the American people anything but the truth. I like that in a president. Meanwhile the McCain campaign, with lead attack dog, Sarah Palin, have transcended down a slipper slope that has divided us more than ever. That is not putting Country First.

OBAMA/BIDEN 08

First thoughts: Needing a game-changer

Ian — Tue, 07 Oct 2008 13:51:36 GMT

10% non-Republicans? By this time, anyone who still approves of the job Bush is doing ARE Republicans calling themselves indies or dems. Kinda like gays who have yet to exit the closet.

First thoughts: Needing a game-changer

CA Voter — Tue, 07 Oct 2008 13:52:43 GMT

Hey CHUCK: you tried to run that "negative curve" scam last night on Hardball. I thought I was watching Tucker Bounds flack for the McCain campaign. A "negative curve" for SARAH PALIN? REALLY? REALLY? She was declared a winner because she didn't drool on herself. Have you been paying attention AT ALL?

First thoughts: Needing a game-changer

dp in PHX — Tue, 07 Oct 2008 13:52:43 GMT

I am SICK of this racist, fear mongering the McCain campaign has been spewing. Our nation is suffering. Our financial markets are in a FULL meltdown and all team McPain has to offer is to encourage the RACIST bigots of our country to direct their anger, antipathy and disappointment at “the terrorist” candidate. Vile, disgusting swill!!!!!!

I want the MSM to denounce this loudly and clearly to EVERYONE, EVERY SINGLE DAY… How in this day and age can this be tolerated???? At both McCain and Palin rallies people were encouraged, ENCOURAGED to shout TER-ROR-IST, TER-ROR-IST, TER-ROR-IST, TER-ROR-IST and KILL HIM>>>KILL HIM>>>KILL HIM!!!!

Why isn’t every pastor in every church loudly and roundly denouncing this open hatred and despicable campaigning? How can the people who come to these rallies join into this disgusting display of HATE. Where is their humanity or their shame?? I am far from a perfect human being, and certainly am not the most pious person in the world, but I pray to GOD that this HATE mongering will be stopped. How can anyone go to those rallies and not leave in utter disgust, let alone join in?

Sara Palin compared Barack’s followers to the Germany’s in pre-WWII Nazi Germany. I submit to you that she’s put the shoe on the wrong foot. Getting crowds of people together and starting hate chants and encouraging invectives to KILL others is way more in Adolph Hitler’s wheel house. I encourage all who are reading this to start an email protest to ever single news major mainstream media outlet in our country. Here is a link to their addresses:

http://www.fair.org/index.php?page=111

Let’s let the McPain campaign know loud and clear that these tactics will not be tolerated another day.
If the racism fits Sara Palin and John McCain—wear it. Shame on you both!!!!!!!

First thoughts: Needing a game-changer

Diane from Illinois — Tue, 07 Oct 2008 13:52:52 GMT

Whatever happened to McCain's "positive" campaign? Oh, that's right, he's LOSING. All bets are off, aren't they? He is as erratic as people say and I can't wait to see him lose it even more during tonight's debate. Although Brokaw is a Republican and personal friend of John McCain, so we'll see how that goes! It'd be like having Andrea Mitchell or Bill Clinton as a moderator...gushing over the McFossil. Gush all you want folks, it doesn't change the poll numbers and your old boy is losing...big time. Obama/Biden '08/'12!!!!

First thoughts: Needing a game-changer

Pat huntington NY — Tue, 07 Oct 2008 13:54:09 GMT

This is now Obama's election to lose...he should take the advise of the experts and remain calm cool and collective during the debate...he should not lecture or deliver wordy answers that could be succinctly answered...he should answer questions specifically but not overly technical...he should not affirmatively attack McCain BUT he should not be McCain's wipping boy and should give tempered short responses to the attacks in a way that show McCain is out of touch with reality. Plain and simple, Obama should let McCain self implode as people finally see him for what he really is - an angrly old tired man yelling at the clouds for not letting him be the nominee in 2000. Oh, and Obama, please try to be more fluid with your answers, don't stop, stumble, stutter, your way through.

First thoughts: Needing a game-changer

Just Wondering — Tue, 07 Oct 2008 13:54:38 GMT

Shouldn't anybody who still approves of Bush hand in their right to vote? He has mangled foreign policy, domestic policy, and is leaving his predecessor a bigger debt than any in history (so, in other words, he's mangled the future also). WHAT is there possibly to approve of?

First thoughts: Needing a game-changer

MSierra, SF — Tue, 07 Oct 2008 13:55:14 GMT

McCaqin has NO ANSWERS for the Economy

He's become the GOLLUM of American politics

He's given yup his honor for his 'Precious'
He's abandoned Honesty for his 'Precious'
He's given up his Maverick reputation

Give 3 reasons to vote for McCain

Don't mention Obama
WHAT ARE the REASONS to vote FOR McCain ?

First thoughts: Needing a game-changer

Kentucky Betty — Tue, 07 Oct 2008 13:56:57 GMT

It's not the voters that are grading Palin on a curve, it's you guys.
You are giving her a tie because she didn't pull her pants down and crap on the stage.
Tell me -- please -- one thing she said during the debate that brought it to a tie in your mind?
She still barely put together a coherent sentence and she certainly didn't answer any questions. So how is it a tie?
She didn't do any better than with Couric, but this time she winked into the camera and spoke in that cutesy manner that men seem defenseless against.
You guys need to hire more women because men apparently really are idiots.

First thoughts: Needing a game-changer

BROKE AND DEPRESSED IN FLORIDA — Tue, 07 Oct 2008 15:13:21 GMT

YES ! YES ! ONLY 105 DAYS UNTIL OBAMA/BIDEN TAKE OFFICE.

First thoughts: Needing a game-changer

C A, Tuscaloosa, AL — Tue, 07 Oct 2008 15:13:28 GMT

Kentucky Betty (Sent Tuesday, October 07, 2008 9:56 AM)

Kentucky Betty:

Not this male. I have been a political junky for years. Much longer than the folks writing for First Read. And I can truthfully say that Sarah Palin performed very poorly during the debate if her performance is weighed against what debates are supposed to accomplish. That is answering questions, presenting positions, and defending your positions with facts to support the same. Some of the First Read staff, including Chuck, give Palin higher marks then she should have recieved for two reasons. One, the bar for her performance was set extremely low (why I don't know as she is running for the 2nd most powerful position in the world regardless of her poor showing with Katie Couric), and two, they based their reviews on Palin's nonsubstantive appeal to certain voter's emotions and not based on any intellectual grasp of the issues.

In conclusion, I believe Chuck's and First Read's comments regarding Palin's "equal" performance is not based on her ability to answer questions, to discuss the issues at hand or to offer positions regarding the same, but are based on their opinion that she is able to appeal to a certain voter group who are ignorant of the issues and who respond emotionally to a type of folksy character regardless of the issues.

But to say openly and without explanation that Palin was equal to the task during the debate as Biden or Obama, or even McCain, is stretching it pretty far. One need only watch the critque by Tina Frey of SNL to get the real picture. And that picture is that Palin was terrible and performed very poorly during the debate.

First thoughts: Needing a game-changer

Keith Las Vegas, NV — Tue, 07 Oct 2008 15:14:31 GMT

The McCain/ Palin rallies are turning into the closest thing to a KKK rally yet.
People yelling Terrorist and Kill Him at McCain & Palin political rallies sets this country back 40 years and should scare every American. If John McCain does nothing to stop this spread of hatred he will ruin himself forever and our dear Ms. Palin will be known as the next best thing to David Dukes. Check the facts for yourself. Go to www.factcheck.org

First thoughts: Needing a game-changer

Pete Caloger Bushkill, PA 18324 — Tue, 07 Oct 2008 15:17:00 GMT

CA Voter: Who declared Palin a winner? Sean Hannity? Ed Rollins? The event was supposed to be a debate, not the eye-batting/winking insult to American intelligence that Palin exhibited that night. A month into her candidacy, and we are still awaiting a substantive discussion of issues from her.

First thoughts: Needing a game-changer

John, MI — Tue, 07 Oct 2008 15:17:32 GMT

Give 3 reasons to vote for McCain

Don't mention Obama
WHAT ARE the REASONS to vote FOR McCain ?
MSierra, SF

1. No Tax increases
2. No socialized govt health care (VERY BAD IDEA)
3. Safe Country to live in
4. Experience working with Both Parties

Obama: 1. Change (good or bad?) still don't have a 2nd reason to vote for him....

First thoughts: Needing a game-changer

Mike Cook, Ardmore, AL — Tue, 07 Oct 2008 15:20:58 GMT

I see the same names day after day running down anything Republican. Just remember one thing....OBAMA is the one who took money from Freddie and Fannie....#2 of all..behind Dodd...who has been in Washimgton for years. OBAMA has had ties toflakey people all his adult life...what does that say??

First thoughts: Needing a game-changer

M. Burke Fort Lee NJ — Tue, 07 Oct 2008 15:22:02 GMT

All I know is when McCain picked that MORON Palin he lost my vote. Of all the People in the world he chose her. What happened to Romney OR even Guiliani?. MY God where was his head UP HIS ASS???

First thoughts: Needing a game-changer

Chip, Budd Lake, NJ — Tue, 07 Oct 2008 15:23:04 GMT

Subject: Fw : Bar stool economics-WARNING ---TRUE

Suppose that every day, ten men go out for beer, and the bill for all ten
comes to $100. If they paid their bill the way we pay our taxes, it would go
something like this:

The first four men (the poorest) would pay nothing.
The fifth would pay $1.
The sixth would pay $3.
The seventh would pay $7.
The eighth would pay $12.
The ninth would pay $18.
The tenth man (the richest) would pay $59.

So, that's what they decided to do.
The ten men drank in the bar every day and seemed quite happy with the
arrangement, until one day, the owner threw them a curve. 'Since you are
all such good customers,' he said, 'I'm going to reduce the cost of your
daily beer by $20. 'Drinks for the ten now cost just $80.'

The group still wanted to pay their bill the way we pay our taxes so the
first four men were unaffected. They would still drink for free.
But what about the other six men - the paying customers? How could they
divide the $20 windfall so that everyone would get his 'fair share'?
They realized that $20 divided by six is $3.33. But if they subtracted that
from everybody's share, then the fifth man and the sixth man would each end
up being paid to drink his beer. So, the bar owner suggeste d that it would
be fair to reduce each man's bill by roughly the same amount and he
proceeded to work out the amounts each should pay.

And so:

The fifth man, like the first four, now paid nothing (100% savings).
The sixth now paid $2 instead of $3 (33%savings).
The seventh now pay $5 instead of $7 (28%savings).
The eighth now paid $9 instead of $12 (25% savings).
The ninth now paid $14 instead of $18 (22% savings).
The tenth now paid $49 instead of $59 (16% savi ngs).

Each of the six was better off than before. And the first four continued
to drink for free. But once outside the restaurant, the men began to
compare their savings.
'I only got a dollar out of the $20,' declared the sixth man. He pointed
to the tenth man,'but he got $10!'

'Yeah, that's right,' exclaimed the fifth man. 'I only saved a dollar,
too. It's unfair that he got ten times as much as I!'

'That's true!!' shouted the seventh man. 'Why should he get $10 back
when I got only two? The wealthy get all the breaks!'

'Wait a minute,' yelled the first four men in unison. 'We didn't get
anything at all. The system exploits the poor!'

The nine men surrounded the tenth man and beat him up.
The next night the tenth man didn't show up for drinks, so the nine sat
down and had beers without him. But when it came time to pay the bill, they
discovered something important. They didn't have enough money between
all of them for even half of the bill!

And that, boys and girls, journalists and college professors, is how our
tax system works. The people who pay the highest taxes get the most benefit
from a tax reduction. Tax them too much, attack them for being wealthy, and
they just may not show up anymore. In fact, they might start drinking
overseas where the atmosphere is somewhat friendlier.

David R. Kamerschen, Ph.D.
Professor of Economics
University of Georgia

For those who understand, no explanation is needed. For those who do not
understand, no explanation is possible.

First thoughts: Needing a game-changer

Joe, MN — Tue, 07 Oct 2008 15:24:10 GMT

One true guideline for spotting a liar in the act, is to take note of their inability to look the opposition in the eye when they start to slander their opponent's character.

Palin and McCain aren't even that good at checking the facts before they start slandering Obama's character, but you have to give them points for consistency -- they just won't shut up spreading lies!

During the first debate, John McCain actually demonstrated what a "coward" he is, when he either refused to or simply couldn't look Barack Obama in the eye when he was talking down to him. How shameful and telling, Mr. Staight Talk. Maybe you should have cheked your dirty tricks at the door, but then again, you are untrustworthy.

I suppose that even a professional liar like John McCain, who may feel ashamed of the lies his campaign operatives have been spreading about Obama, might still have enough common decency left to shy away from direct eye contact with his opponent, when he knows what he is saying is a lie. It will be interesting to see if McCain course corrects tonight, and is actually able to look his very capable adversary in the eye. Turning that page may prove even more difficult for McCain in light of all these recent scurrilous attacks on Obama's character, from the RNC flying monkey troop.

My guess is that McCain will try to maintain a little more eye contact this time, but will not be able to keep it up for any length of time. Once again, his shame will translate into looking cowardly and confused about so many things. Obama, will look Presidential and rise above these personal attacks.

First thoughts: Needing a game-changer

Richard, Baltimore, MD — Tue, 07 Oct 2008 15:25:31 GMT

Palin cannot handle Katie Couric, how would she handle Putin?

Making her your VP is NOT putting country first.

First thoughts: Needing a game-changer

ann — Tue, 07 Oct 2008 15:25:33 GMT

cranky old man's metamucil dose just got upped..hence all this verbal diarhoea...hockey mom needs to dig out her brains from her closet of skirts..
they cannot even keep their bases intact(im sorry how do u lose Indiana and Florida..what magic did you both do??)
..what are they going to do with the country if we give it to them? make wasilla the national capital and beer the national drink and moose hunting the national sport? that is all fine if you can tell us what you plan to do with this crisis..dont jump aoround questions and throw dirt on the other party....

First thoughts: Needing a game-changer

Joe, MN — Tue, 07 Oct 2008 15:25:55 GMT

One true guideline for spotting a liar in the act, is to take note of their inability to look the opposition in the eye when they start to slander their opponent's character.

Palin and McCain aren't even that good at checking the facts before they start slandering Obama's character, but you have to give them points for consistency -- they just won't shut up spreading lies!

During the first debate, John McCain actually demonstrated what a "coward" he is, when he either refused to or simply couldn't look Barack Obama in the eye when he was talking down to him. How shameful and telling, Mr. Staight Talk. Maybe you should have checked your dirty tricks at the door, but then again, you are untrustworthy.

I suppose that even a professional liar like John McCain, who may feel ashamed of the lies his campaign operatives have been spreading about Obama, might still have enough common decency left to shy away from direct eye contact with his opponent, when he knows what he is saying is a lie. It will be interesting to see if McCain course corrects tonight, and is actually able to look his very capable adversary in the eye. Turning that page may prove even more difficult for McCain in light of all these recent scurrilous attacks on Obama's character, from the RNC flying monkey troop.

My guess is that McCain will try to maintain a little more eye contact this time, but will not be able to keep it up for any length of time. Once again, his shame will translate into looking cowardly and confused about so many things. Obama, will look Presidential and rise above these personal attacks.

First thoughts: Needing a game-changer

Tony Conner Athens, Al — Tue, 07 Oct 2008 15:25:56 GMT

Clinton gave us the .COM recession and now Bush gives us the SUBPRIME recession. You can't trust any of them, they probably go out drinking togetehr after the debates. They are all in the pockets of large corporations and wealthy contributors. Maybe we should vote "None of teh above".

First thoughts: Needing a game-changer

Mike Shea, Winter Springs FL — Tue, 07 Oct 2008 15:27:14 GMT

Ok folks the Dems are the ones who opened the vault for loans. anyone and everyone got one. When REP wanted controls they said there was no problem. Our crisis is beacuse of the Mortgages. SO ELECT OBAMA and his LIBERAL Friends you want to see your future look at MI.

First thoughts: Needing a game-changer

wesh,ca — Tue, 07 Oct 2008 15:28:08 GMT

I THOUGHT MCCAIN WAS UP 2 POINTS,whats going on? can some one explain this, How can this happan?

First thoughts: Needing a game-changer

just the facts — Tue, 07 Oct 2008 15:28:18 GMT

this is how shallow and desperate Repugs have become... Look at the bottom of the article for some sheer irony!

http://www.philly.com/philly/blogs/attytood/GOP_hits_rock_bottom_Calls_Obama_in_an_official_release_terrorists_best_friend.html

First thoughts: Needing a game-changer

ladysaxabra, S. A. Texas — Tue, 07 Oct 2008 15:28:26 GMT

I just saw an "Obama Indoctrination" film on FOX about a school that is indoctrinating the students with pro Obama slogans. These kids looked like neo- Nazis, Blacks, wearing black Tshirts, with their arms folded and marching around together. The teacher doing this was fired. Thank God. But what a scary thought, if this is only the beginning if Obama gets elected.
How do you think the other kids in the class felt while this was going on??

First thoughts: Needing a game-changer

Edward, Atlanta, GA — Tue, 07 Oct 2008 15:29:04 GMT

How can you people be so blind.

Everything that you throw at McCain/Palin, turn it around to Obama/Biden and they come out WORST in every aspect.

Example: You talk about experience for Palin. But what about Obama's? For God's sake, what has be done?

It is really scary what he's doing.

You have donations from "Good Will" and the likes.

You have no information from what he did in college.

You have socialist policies.

He has done things to his convenience and nobody has questioned him on it.

He "leaves" his church because now he does not agree with it?

AFTER 20 YEARS?

Friends with an admitted terrorist who hosted his "coming out party" and he just "knows of him"

OPEN YOUR EYES PEOPLE!!!!!

First thoughts: Needing a game-changer

Consider yourself warned — Tue, 07 Oct 2008 15:30:52 GMT

I hope all you Obama lovers have done your research cause your "saviour" has a pretty scary past and you might just find yourself being forced to worship allah in the next ten years.

First thoughts: Needing a game-changer

JM — Tue, 07 Oct 2008 15:31:05 GMT

Since Mr. Ayers is a well respected professor and his wife a lawyer. Is Palin and McCain also stating that the college is harboring a terrorist? That each student that attends his classes a terrorist and that the association or even taking a class makes them a terrorist candidate in the years to come. This line of attack is insane and what is happening is that again McCain/Palin is using fear as well as race as an issue for the american public. This line will not just polarize the democrats and republicans but will polarize america back to a Black and White society. McCain and Palin have not proven they are for america, only that they want to win at all cost. McCain and palin are elitist and Palin is a Racist. Probably the only people of color she knows has been out of this election. Joe six pack does not gain favor in the world of a minority. Joe six pack is a red neck depiction for white america

First thoughts: Needing a game-changer

dwmulenex, savannah,ga — Tue, 07 Oct 2008 15:31:21 GMT

polls, pols, and pundits: no one wants to call thge endgame of the McAin campaign what is us: a morally repugnant personal assault on Barack Obama that simply ignores the demonstrated superiority of his ability to plan, adapt and execute a campaign, to develop sound positions on policy which frame comprehensively his view of the nation and the world, and to refuse to oversimplify the challenges ahead or to be anything other than pragmatically optimistic about meeting them. This--not screaming at clouds, being fooled by the perfume on a dress, or pretending your biopic is real--is the self confidence and smarts we need in a a leader and a President. It's time for the media to stop rolling with the spin and counterspinning with fools like Buchanan and the entertaining mugger Olberman. It's not about MSNBC ratings anymore, or even trashing Lou Dud and Wolfie, or the kool-aid crowd at Fox. Get past your fear and the tatic of symmetry. Report the facts, and if one side looks much worse to you than the other, check your facts again and if you still stand by them, for the sake of country and for God's sake report the story as it it.

First thoughts: Needing a game-changer

Barbara — Tue, 07 Oct 2008 15:31:49 GMT

I swore four years ago as a die hard conservative that my shame in claiming to be proud and republican had been tarnished and I would never go there again. Yesterday I watched in essence of what I would call Nazism when an elected official - a sheriff in uniform - use racism in slurred speech against an American Presidential candidate. Do not ever tell me that the GOP is a Christian based party ever again or use Christian interests as a reason to support the GOP.

First thoughts: Needing a game-changer

just the facts — Tue, 07 Oct 2008 15:31:55 GMT

This townhall setting is a complete joke. Voters get to ask questions, that have been asked in advance... to the moderator... and can't be changed. After the question is asked, the mic is killed and there is no opportunity for a followup. The candidates can't ask one another questions either...

this will be like another dose of "expected" questions that Sarah Palin got!

I don't see how McCain changes the momentum in this setting.

First thoughts: Needing a game-changer

Man Size Safe, Portland, Texas — Tue, 07 Oct 2008 15:32:56 GMT

Elect Obama, but dump Pelosi. Obama will need a much less poloarizing figure leading the House to fix the mess Bush is leaving him.

First thoughts: Needing a game-changer

God save us — Tue, 07 Oct 2008 15:33:37 GMT

All you people that want to play the race card. Do your homework Obama is 3% african american and his descendants were slave owners not slave traders. Scary that we are now piking the most powerful man in the world based on race and charisma. God help us all because w/o God (Jehovah not Allah)no matter who wins this nation is doomed

First thoughts: Needing a game-changer

Jim, Mesa, AZ — Tue, 07 Oct 2008 15:33:54 GMT

This ranting by Palin and McCain is downright dangerous. They are inciting violence against Obama. If he is struck down they will have blood on their hands and riots in the streets.

First thoughts: Needing a game-changer

just the facts — Tue, 07 Oct 2008 15:34:30 GMT

Looking at these results... old man gasbag is probably chewing on a shoe string or pillow cover.

http://www.electoral-vote.com/

First thoughts: Needing a game-changer

Jean Cenicola, Las Vegas, Nevada — Tue, 07 Oct 2008 15:35:22 GMT

Are Rachel Maddow, Keith Olberman and Chris Matthews the onl journalist working for MSNBC? All others, including Tom Brokaw, do their best to put McCain/Palin in the best light and continue to run the nastiest and sleaziest McCain ads with no Obama ads or positives even mentioned. Perhaps you guys are now owned by Fox News? Thank God for Keith, Chris and Rachel. As far as Chuck, why does he have this position. He is a McCain supporter and no political analyst. I think the American people are getting just as disgusted with the news media as with GWB and McCain, and Palin.

First thoughts: Needing a game-changer

Phoenix — Tue, 07 Oct 2008 15:35:56 GMT

I'm tired of the attacks on Obama. He consorts with terrorists, or he's a muslim, (like that would make a difference if he was). McCain spent 5 1/2 years in a communist regime's prison. Maybe someone should accuse him of being a brain washed communist sleeper agent!!!

First thoughts: Needing a game-changer

BOM in Wisconsin — Tue, 07 Oct 2008 15:36:43 GMT

This is to all the liberal bloggers above. Good luck with your tax and spend strategy. I hope you all have a lot of cash reserves as your retirement accounts are going to quickly evaporate if the Democrats have their way.
Moreover, our foreign policy will be 4 years of gridlock and hopefully we will not lose what we have gained. Don't plan too much foreign travel.
Do I hear Jimmy Carter?
Hang on for the ride.
Maybe Obama will be a good reality check for Americans and 4 years of trolling the bottom will be a good wake up call.
We deserve who we vote in.

First thoughts: Needing a game-changer

rhonda; Hilliard, Ohio — Tue, 07 Oct 2008 15:37:25 GMT

Let me get this straight - for two debates, several polls consistently disagree with pundits and say that the dem ticket disagree with the pundit pronouncement that the debates were ties and on a whole say that Obama/Biden beat McCain/Palin by 50% to 29% and your analysis for the disconnect is that VOTERS must be WRONG - they are grading McCain/Palin on a curve???? Are you kidding me? Do the pundits not read their own blogs that are set up here? The answers have been written here pretty consistently.

Obama/McCain was closer. Each had a closer command of the issues on an intellectual level. McCain was his own worst enemy and was off-putting. For all of his bluster about "suspending his campaign" to work on the economic crisis, he had little to say about how that translated to the broader economy or his economic plans - all he could babble about was cutting earmarks (about 17 or 18 million dollars/year) which seemed a bit odd in light of the fact that Congress just finished approving a $700 BILLION WALL ST BAILOUT.

Now lets talk about the VP debates, for every clip where Palin looks as if she is putting together two intelligent sentences, you don't show what the question that was put to her. Because she either ignored the question outright - not in the sly political way of answering, but not answering that we have grown used to - but outright answering another question altogether - given a question about Afghanistan, and saying "I want to talk about energy." That is unacceptable. If Palin attempted in anyway to answer the question put to her, it was painful for the audience to hear as she babble through a series of cliches, catch phrases, and important names she had memorized that might be important to that topic. Her performance could not be compared favorably to Joe Biden's. And the voters graded her appropriately.

The voters have been saying that they want substantive debate. The grades of the campaigns are saying, you need to come to the debate prepared, you need to behave courteously, you need to follow the rules of the debate, you need to answer the questions that are posed - the voters are paying attention to the substance of these debates.

First thoughts: Needing a game-changer

Gloria, Medford, Oregon — Tue, 07 Oct 2008 15:37:45 GMT

The only liars in this case are McCain and Palin.
Palin is a conceited, smug, self-righteous phony!
McCain changes his tactics daily, either he can not make up his own mind....or he is ill-advised....by the lobbys he invites to his camp....or the poor man has slipped over the edge into senility...ELECT OBAMA!

First thoughts: Needing a game-changer

Gloria, Medford, Oregon — Tue, 07 Oct 2008 15:38:10 GMT

First thoughts: Needing a game-changer

C.Myles; Atlantic, VA. — Tue, 07 Oct 2008 15:38:19 GMT

I voted for McCain 2 times in the past. I will never, NEVER do it again.His disgusting & ugly campaign is embarrassing, and exactly what he said he would not do.His VP choice is even more embarrassing.There is no leadership, just dirty lies & panic.

First thoughts: Needing a game-changer

Ponzi, Monterey, CA — Tue, 07 Oct 2008 15:38:53 GMT

Bartering for his life, a sage in a traditional Sufi parable admonishes a powerful leader in his day:
The first truth... is that you imagine yourself to be a seeker of truth. The second truth is that you only wish to hear the truth as you currently conceive it. The third truth is that you will only know the truth when you know yourself to be ignorant.

Whether it is Bush (who could not think of a single effor in judgment in the debates four years ago) or Palin (who seems to have no curiousity outside of her little world) or McCain (who seems to adopt as strategy the last thought to come out of an advisor's mouth) I have to say that none of the Republican side seems to have any desire to consider alternate viewpoints.

First thoughts: Needing a game-changer

Peggy Cobb Nashville, TN — Tue, 07 Oct 2008 15:39:37 GMT

You people must have the brains the size of pea. Do you not know besides the economic crisis, we are facing problems of a greater magnitude. Other countries who hate us and what we believe and stand for. It scares me that in this country 95 per cent of the people have the intelligence and brains to think for themselves the other five percent or certifiable or cannot think for themselves. They let the elite media who want to elect Washington insiders influence who they vote for. Democrats, believe in taxation, taxation, taxation, you want to know how that is going to affect your pockets. Obama wants to do away with any captital gain relief. We have no good idea who he is or where he came from. He has associated with Terroists for heaven sakes. The war do you remember 9/11 at all. Well guess what if he is elected look out for terroist attacks to multiply. Bush people get real he can only do so much and Congress runs this country not the President. Are you people that dumb.

First thoughts: Needing a game-changer

Obama's Change is SOCIALISM ! --- — Tue, 07 Oct 2008 15:39:50 GMT

.
MAKE NO MISTAKE ABOUT IT --- OBAMA WOULD BE A BIG LEAP TOWARDS SOCIALISM.

OBAMA BELIEVES IN THE SOCIALIST GOAL OF "REDISTRIBUTION OF WEALTH."

OBAMA WANTS TO REDISTRIBUTE INCOME --- THROUGH TAXATION --- FROM THOSE WHO HAVE IT, TO THOSE WHO DO NOT.
OBAMA WANTS TO TAKE MONEY FROM THOSE WHO HAVE WORKED FOR IT and EARNED IT --- AND GIVE IT TO THOSE WHO HAVE NOT.

OBAMA'S APPROACH TO ECONOMICS IS THE ""SAME OLD"" SOCIALIST SCHEME.
TAKE FROM THOSE WHO HAVE CONTRIBUTED THE MOST TO SOCIETY --- AND GIVE IT TO THOSE WHO HAVE NOT.

HE CALLS IT "ECONOMIC JUSTICE." . IT'S CLASS WARFARE. . THE SCAM WORKED IN RUSSIA ;;DON’T LET IT SUCCEED HERE!
-

First thoughts: Needing a game-changer

Droppin' Science, Miami, Fl — Tue, 07 Oct 2008 15:40:08 GMT

Maybe we need a new youth movement by way of media journalism as well, because far too many of these media 'pundits' are failing us big time. We need some fresh air out there... Someone not afraid to ask the tuff questions. (My, how we miss Tim Russert) The media is so gullable, and so very easily manipulated...

I watched McOldman rant yesterday about Obama not being willing to answer questions the way every other candidate has been subject to... HELLOOOO!!! This coming from a campaign that has Tucker Bound keepin' this Palin Chick 'Tucked & Bound' ...This Palin broad isn't even accessible to answering questions. And no one in the media seems to notice that and/or is willing to call him out on that. McInsane realizes that if he simply says something the media would take whatever's said at face value. That's probably why McLame see's the American people are so simple minded.

We'll see who skates around the issues tonight when Mc4moreYearsOfTheSame get's his ass handed to him.

...And for y'all that don't know, Florida IS blue... If y'all knew what us folks down here know, it wouldn't even be a question. (We have a secret 'Fraternal' like organization down here that wants no part of the polling so as to know ourselves where we stand prior to November 4th, despite what the 'experts' say)

THIS WILL BE A LANDSLIDE VICTORY FOR OBAMA!!! All we Floridians are doing right now is passing the time...

Ohio, you might wanna take note. We've learned from two terms of foolish, regretful voting that allowed Bush to take the White House, consequently sending our Country to ruins. We're going to clean our hands with this administration and change the course of Our Country... WE WONT MAKE THAT SAME MISTAKE AGAIN!

{As an Old 'WISE' President once said, "Fool me once... Fool me once shame on... Shame on, Fool me... *sigh* Get fooled, ya' can't get fooled again"}.

OBAMA/BIDEN 08

First thoughts: Needing a game-changer

marc — Tue, 07 Oct 2008 15:40:48 GMT

Yup you libs nailed it!! Bush is the root of all evil!! Since McCain is GOP he is another root of evil. After all look at all the wonderful things the libs have done in congress over the last 2+ years, what a huge accomplishment it must be to running 19 points under Bush in approval rating!! Obama and the libs dont want to reach across any aisles, that is LIE ! The dont want any opposition at all, much easier to push the socialist agenda on society. MSNBC is one of the most liberal biased sites on the web, but for some reason I feel the need to come hear and all you liberal bs just so I can get a laugh...