Unanswered questions on special needs

leslie,congers,ny — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 02:09:24 GMT

what does she know about anything!she does not represent women because she as an x and a y.Autism?Downs?sex ed?really-how stupid do they think we are?

Unanswered questions on special needs

Melisa, Dallas, TX — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 02:10:04 GMT

It appears that McCain is selling nothing. Palin has no record of improving healthcare serives to special needs children. As a mother of a child with special needs, I can say that in the long term Obama's plan fits our needs!

Unanswered questions on special needs

John In IN — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 02:10:59 GMT

Having a newborn with Down's does not make Palin some type of expert on child development.

It's like the "I'm a Russia expert because I can see Russia from Alaska"

Unanswered questions on special needs

Cindy Appleby, Raleigh, NC — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 02:11:05 GMT

McCain has not given any answers to any issues tonight with the exception of buying up mortgages. He just keeps attacking Obama. He is laying out no policy.

Unanswered questions on special needs

woween — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 02:11:28 GMT

Sen McCain said Palin has greater knowledge of special needs Obama said autism

Unanswered questions on special needs

Heather MN — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 02:11:37 GMT

Bringing up Palin's child was a ploy to women and a way to distract from the question that was asked. This is all McCain does now. He's incapable of sticking to the issues. It drives me crazy, why can't he OR Palin answer a question!

Unanswered questions on special needs

necole, louisiana — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 02:11:49 GMT

Yeah, I dont think that Palin having a special needs baby qualifies her as an expert

Unanswered questions on special needs

Jennifer, Charleston SC — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 02:11:59 GMT

Amen, thank you for pointing this out. I'm a parent of a child with autism, and was infuriated when I heard this statement. I'm sorry, but Sarah Palin's newborn son with Down syndrome does NOT make her an authority on special needs, and especially not about autism. Oh, and it got even better when Obama pointed out the need for additional funding for autism research (YAY) but McCain slammed him about "always just thinking we need to spend more money".

Unanswered questions on special needs

patty, St. Petersburg, FL — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 02:12:22 GMT

This is a talking point for McCain, not something he has any real interest in. It's a red herring, and is an attempt to pull sympathy for his less-than-stellar running mate.

Unanswered questions on special needs

TruePatriot — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 02:12:22 GMT

McCain/Palin are anti-science, anti-intellecualism in keeping with appeal to the Republican base. So this may be why nothing has been said about "value" of education in general. But certainly, Republicans are not known for favoring government programs to help anyone including children with special needs.

Unanswered questions on special needs

patty, St. Petersburg, FL — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 02:12:30 GMT

This is a talking point for McCain, not something he has any real interest in. It's a red herring, and is an attempt to pull sympathy for his less-than-stellar running mate.

Unanswered questions on special needs

Anne, South Orange, NJ — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 02:13:18 GMT

Palin will not know the government's involvement in special education until her child has his first IEP. I think trivializing special needs in this way will turn off voters who have children with special needs or educate children with special needs. And, Down Syndrome and Autism are hugely different. Having knowledge of one does not make you an expert in the other.

Unanswered questions on special needs

Dan, Portsmouth, VA — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 02:13:30 GMT

Well, gee, being close to Alaska makes her an expert on foreign policy, so having a down syndrome baby must make her an expert on children with special needs!

You see? Perfectly logical

Unanswered questions on special needs

Laura Tyler, Texas — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 02:13:40 GMT

FR: McCain mentioned that Palin knows more about the issue of autism than nearly anyone. What evidence is there of that?

Probably because she has an autistic child and she talks to a lot a professionals about treatment. In time, she might even figure out what's wrong with you guys at FR. You certainly seem to special needs kinds of people.

Unanswered questions on special needs

VA — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 02:13:43 GMT

Sorry, I think he is out of content. Wasn't she the first one to reduce the Special Olympics at her own state. I don't think she know anything about it. In all, I feel sorry for all the people of Alaska whos child have some kind of autism or other special needs. My heart goes out to you for having a Governor that does not support her own state.

Unanswered questions on special needs

Rose Black, Atlanta, GA — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 02:13:47 GMT

Palin is a joke and McCain is making claims that are not based on any substance, much like the campaign that he has run so far. One of the reasons he is losing this election is the fact that people do not want Palin in the White House!

Unanswered questions on special needs

Karen, Bel Air, MD — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 02:13:48 GMT

This has been evident of their entire campaign... if McCain/Palin would spend their time talking about how their are going to great change (versus defending themselved) they might actually be able to answer the American public's concern.

Defensiveness gets the best of any of us... so the case with McCain/Palin.

Unanswered questions on special needs

Paula Marshall, Oklahoma City, OK — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 02:14:06 GMT

Ok so Sarah Palin has a child with Down Syndrome but that does not make her qualified to run the country beside am i missing something here what does one statement have to do with the other?? I'm confused

Unanswered questions on special needs

MS, Nashville, TN — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 02:14:10 GMT

How does Palin know anything about a special needs child? Or children in general? She obviously had no time to educate her daughter on the consequences of unprotected intimate relationships and she is obviously not spending much time with her special needs baby on the campaign trail. She is a success hungry self-centered woman and I am offended when John McCain says that she would represent women well!
A disgusted mother and woman!

Unanswered questions on special needs

Janthony,Maine — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 02:14:13 GMT

that has certainly been my question...I do not believe they have any real money or published policy statements focused on these issues

Unanswered questions on special needs

Sam Leon, Miami, Fla. — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 02:14:13 GMT

There is another thing Palin knows a lot about, Abusing Power. I think that having her in a position of power would be irresponsible and dangerous.

Unanswered questions on special needs

Sophia Beck Laramie WY — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 02:14:15 GMT

McCain voted down these special need bills.
It is amazing how he can not keep himself
focused. McCain is great at not giving answers,
he has danced around most questions by targeting
Obama-Very scary

Unanswered questions on special needs

Lee-- Dallas, TX — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 02:14:17 GMT

Autism and Down Syndrome are two very different things medical issues, but I wouldn't hold Sen. McCain to knowing the facts, as not have many people.

Unanswered questions on special needs

Ashamed I Even Read This Crap — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 02:14:22 GMT

Can't help yourself First Read can you? Anything to get a dig in on Palin. Pathetic.

Unanswered questions on special needs

Todd Hawley, Baton Rouge, Louisiania — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 02:14:41 GMT

What we do know is that McCain-Palin do what they can to get gov't out of the way.

Unanswered questions on special needs

Raileigh — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 02:14:42 GMT

McCain's statement about Palin's knowledge on Autism is absurd. Her very young child's diagnosis and disability has nothing to do with autism. The etiologies, complications, prognoses, therapies, incidences, and potential outcomes have nothing to do with one another. Moreover, it is insulting to thousands of advocates and parents of special needs individuals that a woman who has been a parent of a child with Down syndrome for a few months has some inner wisdom on this subject. As a physician and a family member of a person with Down syndrome, these comments smack of pure ignorance and pandering.

Unanswered questions on special needs

N. Dunston — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 02:14:46 GMT

I'm outraged that McCain called Palin a role model for women. She's an embarrassment to women!! If McCain in his imperialistic way supported his preference for women being barefoot and pregnant and Palin would nod and agree in that bobblehead way she does to everything. If Palin becomes Vice President, will she accept only 60% of the wage?

Unanswered questions on special needs

Kirby, Pa — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 02:15:41 GMT

What's Obama going to do? He never said anything either; just the keyword of autism. Give me a break. Could you kindly report on this debate without your Democratic goggles? Good God!

Unanswered questions on special needs

BG, Seattle, WA — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 02:15:51 GMT

How can McCain-Palin do anything for
special needs children when they will
freeze the funding for such programs?

While everything is frozen, what happens
do those children, women, and veterans
while all programs are frozen and there
are no means for assistance?

Unanswered questions on special needs

Gilda Mays, LA CA — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 02:16:02 GMT

Obama wants to cut taxes, and at the same time have massive government spending increases. How? He hasn't laid out any plan. So we don't know.

Unanswered questions on special needs

vickiegee — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 02:17:05 GMT

They will surely/shorely/showly depending on which personality you normally hear Obama speak in give it a "litmus test" and provide professional and personal combined expertise input and provide necessary funding even if imbezzlement to agencies such as ACORN have to be slashed. In other words they are not clueless libs.

Unanswered questions on special needs

Justin, Salem, OR — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 02:17:51 GMT

Thank you for pointing this out. I am a teacher and face the issue of autism every day. It's one thing to say that she's an expert but it's a whole other thing to prove it.

I was especially offended that he implied that Governor Palin is qualified to be President because she has a special needs child. If that is true, I know a few parents of multiple special needs children who should be crowned rulers of the world.

Unanswered questions on special needs

Linda Mitche huntingtown md: — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 02:18:07 GMT

i am a special needs teacher and Obama I believe will help them but McCain is only responding on the notion because palin has a special needs child that she doesnt really care for.

Unanswered questions on special needs

Don Buchwalter, Erie, Penn. — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 02:18:53 GMT

Nothing was said about Palin slashing the budget of the Alaska Special Olympics, either

Unanswered questions on special needs

Margaret Harmatuk — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 02:19:03 GMT

McCain said Palin knew more about "special needs" children than just about anybody he knew(I may be paraphrasing). That I highly doubt.

Unanswered questions on special needs

Kat, Tucson, AZ — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 02:19:15 GMT

As Obama pointed out, this is another area that McCain has mentioned that will required special programs, yet he wants to cut so many. Does McCain follow his own thoughts???

Unanswered questions on special needs

Renee Reed, Dayton, OH — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 02:19:24 GMT

I am one of those fifty something single American women who has lost her job and her health care coverage. I have a pacemaker and have been deemed uninsurable because of this pre-exisitng condition. Sen. McCain is so out of touch with people like me....and there are alot of us in Dayton, Ohio. $5000 in a tax cut will not provide any health care assistance for me. And, What is with McCain and his little smirk? I am so angry that I want to reach into the TV and smack him. He is coming off to me as being snide and superior. I am sick of the attacks and his denials of his negative ads and campaign tactics. I used to think rather highly of this great war hero, but not any more. I am so frightened of his policies and those of his running mate. I fear for this county that I love so much.

Unanswered questions on special needs

Joe (666 pack) Plumber — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 02:19:42 GMT

What I do understand is prior to Palin having a special needs child, she was AGAINST financial support in Alaska. Only when it hit her family was she then supportive.

Unanswered questions on special needs

John Moseley — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 02:19:46 GMT

McCain looks and sound old.

Unanswered questions on special needs

Kristina Byers, Lancaster, Ohio — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 02:19:53 GMT

I would love to hear more about the specifics of John Mccain's health insurance plan. He's giving $5,000 to families but my family is already covered 100% by my husband's employer, so where will our $5,000 go?

Unanswered questions on special needs

Matthew Ramon, San Diego, CA — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 02:19:57 GMT

Is this what are country needs at this moment? How to cure autism? I don't think it makes Palin qualified for VP and possibly President.

Unanswered questions on special needs

Sharon, Peoria, IL — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 02:20:15 GMT

That's not how I heard it. Palin will be a supporter of families with children with special needs. And autism is an example of the need for increased support for children with special needs. Interesting to me is that it was a Republican President, Gerald Ford, who signed P.L. 94-142 granting free and appropriate education to children with special needs. And it was a Republican president, George H. W. Bush, who signed into law the American Disabilities Act.

Unanswered questions on special needs

julia hanberg, Bristol, IN — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 02:20:51 GMT

oh my goodness. Today on the today show hosts were talking about how much time and effort a parent with an autistic child will have to spend, over and above that of a "normal" child I suppose they were referring to, and it was overwhelming. Now, just because Sarah Palin has a child with Down's Syndrome, what makes her an expert on Autism? AND, to direct it to one of the questions actually asked of John McCain, WHY DOES THAT QUALIFY HER FOR THE PRESIDENCY OF THE UNITED STATES? If the raising of a special needs child is a greater than full-time job, and that is her primary responsibility, then where will she find time to run the country if it comes to that?

Unanswered questions on special needs

beverly, Nc — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 02:21:04 GMT

Parents are always the #1 advocate for the special needs child. It is difficult to understand Sarah Palin being such a supporter of these children, when she is clearly neglecting her Down Syndrome infant, by putting her own needs ahead of his and her family. Not Fair!

Unanswered questions on special needs

Sam, Cumberland, Maine — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 02:21:29 GMT

Uhhh, didn't Palin vote to cut funding for Special Needs children in schools, then backed off when she had her own child?

Unanswered questions on special needs

Susan — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 02:21:59 GMT

She knows 'more than anyone I know.' That might be true. I think his hyperinflation of Gov. Palin's skills and experience have received a shameful bye throughout the campaign.

Unanswered questions on special needs

candy snyder — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 02:22:36 GMT

mccain is one angry fellow. he will have the us in every war he can find. and sarah palin alaska independece party that is her best role. I can't follow mccains eyes they roll all over. they have always said he has a bad temper

Unanswered questions on special needs

EAH, Washington DC — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 02:22:44 GMT

I'm going to take a wild guess that McCain doesn't know any special educators or autism researchers. Palin is an expert on autism and special needs kids because she gave birth to a child with three copies of the 21st chromosome? It's like saying I'm an expert mechanic because I own a car.

Unanswered questions on special needs

Sonya Griggs, Norfolk VA — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 02:23:15 GMT

Having a special needs child does not make you an expert in that area. I say that as a parent of a special needs child. Usually whenever there are budget cuts, mental health and social services are the first two to get cuts in funding.

Unanswered questions on special needs

Melissa S - Aiken, SC — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 02:23:32 GMT

After his performance tonight, I'm starting to think that Senator McCain qualifies as a "special needs" individual.

Unanswered questions on special needs

A.E. Winnabow, NC — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 02:23:35 GMT

I have a child with Autism and has special needs. I am very concerned about the governments lack of empathy for people who have mental illnesses. Many of the country's mental health progams have been slashed in funding during the Bush years. I am appalled that anyone could cut funding for the very vulnerable. I have struggled to take care of my son who takes 8 different medications and my Medicaid was cut because I made more than 10 dollars above the set guidelines eventhough I have 2 other children ands struggle to take care of my family. I have to decide what to buy. My son's medication or food or lights.

Unanswered questions on special needs

Sharon McWillis, Seattle, Washington — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 02:23:51 GMT

I am very frustrated that McCain compared Palin to the professional women of this country. She is not even close to being a professioal women nor is she qualified to represent the women of this country.
For all of the women who have worked their way up through the ranks, we have not winked, giggled and acted like a silly beauty queen to get where we are. What McCain said was an insult to the professional women of this country. Many of my constituents in the past few weeks have felt nothing but disqust for Palin because of her behavior, her disgusting comments and her bad ethical power of abuse. Tell McCain if he thinks he can win by insulting the women of this country, he is very wrong.

Unanswered questions on special needs

Jill Daugherty, Seville, OH — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 02:23:55 GMT

I am always intrigued by Obama/McCain debates. Unfortunately, I feel that in tonight's debate, McCain looks desperate. I feel that he jumps from one subject to another and is hard to follow--he doesn't seem to remain focused on the subject at hand. He smiles and makes gestures at inappropriate times which makes him appear "out of sync."

All in all, I believe that Obama--once again--has won this debate. He delivers his comments and answers eloquently and distinctly. I truly believe Obama is the better candidate for President of the United States. Change is definitely needed and Obama is the one that probably can lead us down that path in a positive direction.

Unanswered questions on special needs

Mrs. M — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 02:24:12 GMT

Palin's son with Down syndrome is about 6 months old. What does she know about the needs of people with disabilities?? It doesn't make any sense that all of the sudden she is an expert on something so new to her. Ok!! she may have read information about Down syndrome but now McCain wants to make her sound like she knows what people with disabilities and their families need. Does she even know what Down syndrome is??? I would like to hear what she knows about the issues relating to people with disabilities and convice me because I have a son with a dual diagonis of Down syndrome and Autism. Believe me that it takes a while for a new parent to learn about all the services available for your child and how to access these services. As far as the law and entitlements it's a whole new world for a lot of us to have to learn. It has taken me 10 years to kind of know the laws and how to access services for my son. It's tough and you almost have to be an attorney to access a lot of these services... So don't tell me that she knows about special needs. For all of you out there parents of children with special needs, tell me how long has it taking you to learn the ropes and tell me what where you doing 5 to 6 months after you found out or were given a diagnose for your child.

Unanswered questions on special needs

Kathy Birmingham, AL — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 02:24:32 GMT

Palin CUT FUNDING for special needs children as Governor of Alaska.. She didn't seem very interested in special needs kids until she had one of her own.

Unanswered questions on special needs

MH, Minnesota — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 02:24:44 GMT

There is no evidence. Gov. Palin does not even have any experience yet being the parent of a special needs child as her child is still a babe in arms. Having an autistic child, I am upset that Sen. McCain would insult my intelligence in this manner. He bashes Sen. Obama regarding "spending". In order to help us, it is necessary to have funding for education and medical. You can't get around it. Besides, it won't really matter to Gov. Palin, if she gets elected. She won't be raising that child. Someone else will.

Unanswered questions on special needs

Linda Spott, Seattle, WA — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 02:24:53 GMT

1. How we will obtain a national health care plan when the each state has their own health care plan laws and insurance commissioners office, plus a person is elected to run this office? The insurance commissioners have their own lobbyist & etcetera. I don't see any merit in what the candidates propose on this issue.
2. When will the mortgage fraud cases be taken seriously? No Doc Loans should never be written and if so constitutes fraud. Why was the Sarbanes Oxley act implemented if not to have the financial & mortage companies report their non-existent earnings and commercial paper risks?
3. You cannot clean up the system without cleaning house and enforcing fraud laws with the people who did the original loans.
The American people are incensed with a bailout plan that holds no one accountable for the mess. I for one would vote for Frankenstein if I thought he could kick ass and take names!!

Unanswered questions on special needs

Deborah, Vista,CA — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 02:24:55 GMT

I AM the parent of a child with a severe disability. I am insulted that McCain 'threw a bone' in regarding 'special needs'. I have heard NOTHING specific from the Palin camp about what she would do for my son except 'be an advocate in the white house'. She hasn't begun to understand what lies ahead for her son.Being an 'advocate' involves a lot more expertise that Palin has. I'd like to hear what she has to say when she's trying to potty train her fifteen year old.

Unanswered questions on special needs

TruePatriot — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 02:26:22 GMT

Education in itself is not the answer. I know many college educated people who can't discern lies from fact, as we see in the Election season. We need to teach people about research guidelines, specifically what credible references/sources are.

I truly believe the one of the most damaging things has been the advent of FOX News. Because FOX News cherry picks what to report, people don't get a lot of very important information. Then, what is reported is so biased that the information people do get is misinformation.

But back to the first point -- If these people were educated on how to identify garbage in the first place, and how to get facts on their own when they do question the garbage they read or hear, our country wouldn't be going down the toilet.

Unanswered questions on special needs

Pam Frazier — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 02:26:38 GMT

Again with her knowing more. He has so lost any chance with me.

Unanswered questions on special needs

Peter McQuaid, Los Angeles, CA — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 02:26:42 GMT

Actually, Palin cut funding to special needs children in Alaska.

Unanswered questions on special needs

Louise, Fort Washington, MD — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 02:27:11 GMT

I have a niece with special needs and I believe that Sarah Palin uses her infant son as her political poster child. My niece is 38 years old; Sarah Palin's son is not yet two years old. How in the world does she already know all the challenges of a special needs child, especially when she is not even a devoted full time parent? McCain and Palin should stop throwing the baby out with the bath water.

Unanswered questions on special needs

Eric, Albuquerque, NM — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 02:27:22 GMT

Why does McCain talk about Palin's understanding of autism when her child has Down's Syndrome?

Unanswered questions on special needs

sanityfirst — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 02:27:36 GMT

News Alert McBrain. Sarah Palin's child does not have autism. You seem to equate all children with special needs with autism.

Unanswered questions on special needs

Beth, Boston, MA — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 02:27:42 GMT

Does McCain think that Down's Syndrome and autism are the same thing? He just mentioned, again, that Sarah Palin knows all about autism.

We know what causes Down's Syndrome but not autism. Autism is a mystery.

Unanswered questions on special needs

Karen, Arlington, VA — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 02:27:59 GMT

Senator McCain keeps mentioning autism in relation to Gov. Palin's baby, who has Down's Syndrome. These are very different conditions. Is he confused, or does he just say autism because it's more widespread and affects more voters?

Unanswered questions on special needs

Sharon McWillis, Seattle, Washington — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 02:28:03 GMT

You have my comment that Phalin cannot be compared to professional women and that McCain insulted the real professional women of this country by comparing her to us. She has been found quilty of unethical behavior in her position as Governor of Alaska, and yet still stands on the stage, winking, giggling and throwing herself at the crowd. Disgusting is the only word for her.

Unanswered questions on special needs

CT Voter — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 02:28:10 GMT

Palin has an INFANT with Down Syndrome, NOT autisim. How does she know more about autism than "most Americans"?

Unanswered questions on special needs

Sharon McWillis, Seattle, Washington — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 02:28:23 GMT

Unanswered questions on special needs

Eric Brodt, Charlotte, NC — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 02:28:24 GMT

Are we sure that McCain doesn't think that Down's Syndrome is the same thing as Autism?

Unanswered questions on special needs

Lauren, Fort Bragg — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 02:28:37 GMT

McCain just did it again. He said that Sarah Palin knows about Autism better than anyone...Down's Syndrome and Autism are not the same and understanding one does not mean understanding the other.

Unanswered questions on special needs

Renee Reed, Dayton, OH — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 02:28:38 GMT

Okay, again Sarah Palin is now the expert on Autism!!! Please!!! He wants to propose all this stuff with no plan laid out or how he plans to pay for this, and then turns on Obama for wanting to spend money to reform programs. And, why is McCain getting all the last words. Why isn't Bob Schieffer stopping him. At least he doesn't get the last word in the summation.

Unanswered questions on special needs

TruePatriot — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 02:29:12 GMT

No, no, no on vouchers. There are a lot of Christian schools out there just waiting for our tax dollars. Seperation of Church and State MUST be preserved in the case of vouchers.

Unanswered questions on special needs

Karen Gillette Idah — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 02:29:32 GMT

This makes me hot! I have been teaching special education for 25 years! Just because you have a child with a disability does not make you an expert on Autism! Republicans have a record on not funding educating students with disabilities! He also stated that people that have served in the military should be able to teach without certification or taking the tests that teachers have to take! I have a masters degree plus! It takes a lot of education to become a master teacher. He does not know what he is talking about. BEWARE!!!!!

Unanswered questions on special needs

Jobama — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 02:29:58 GMT

NO MENTION OF DOWNS SYNDROME..I THOUGHT SARAH PALIN HAD A CHILD WITH DS..AND ALL THE MENTION WAS ABOUT AUTISM.
DID MCCAIN EVEN KNOW SARAH HAS A CHILD WITH DS AND NOT WITH AUTISM ?

Unanswered questions on special needs

Obiden in Austin — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 02:30:51 GMT

How is it possible that Sarah Palin "knows more about Autism than most". Her child who has down syndrome is still a baby of less than a year, so she's no where close to understanding the extent of his developmental needs.

Unanswered questions on special needs

MrsMoore — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 02:31:12 GMT

Did you know that Palin cut the funding on special needs children? it's true... but that was before she had her "special needs" child. After her chlid was born she raised the funding, understanding how other woman feel..

Unanswered questions on special needs

Judy Goebel, Fond du Lac WI — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 02:31:17 GMT

Obviously he does not know the difference between Down Syndrome and Autism. Uugh, McCain really drives me nuts when he talks about special needs...he really could give a darn

Unanswered questions on special needs

J Bfield — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 02:31:26 GMT

Down Syndrome, which is what Trig has, is not Autism.
Totally different. Duh.

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Donna Touchton, Sharpsburg, GA — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 02:31:33 GMT

I agree, What does she know about a child with special needs? Her child is still a baby. Plus, if she is VP, she will have loads of help.

Unanswered questions on special needs

Bob, Manahawkin, NJ — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 02:31:35 GMT

Having an infant with Down's is very much different then caring for your child when they are 10 years old or 20 years old or older. Can she really relate to the day to day of a women caring for her 40 year old brother who has down's? What specificly has her last 5 months taught her that better prepares her to deal with Down's?

Unanswered questions on special needs

Shawn Hadley — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 02:31:46 GMT

I could not believe the absolutely condescending tone used by McCain this evening. How insulting!

Unanswered questions on special needs

Leonard, Miami Fl — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 02:32:00 GMT

Just because Palin has less "upstairs" than a down syndrome child, doesn't mean she knows anything about them. And McStupid doesn't know the difference
between autism and down syndrome?!

Unanswered questions on special needs

Saradara — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 02:32:00 GMT

Trig needs early intervention resource and Mom needs to be around to help the challenged kid.what Sarah the Mom is doing is paling around america and not taking care of her child.
Sarah..Be a Mom first,Country next..

Unanswered questions on special needs

Diane — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 02:32:01 GMT

Twice tonight, McCain referred to "Autisim" in relation to Sarah Palin's situation. Doesn't he know her child has Down's Syndrome?

Unanswered questions on special needs

Dianne Pearce, North Palm Beach, FL — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 02:32:09 GMT

I actually think that Senator McCain was CONFUSING autism for downs syndrome. Tell me if I am wrong?

Unanswered questions on special needs

Gorefan — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 02:32:53 GMT

McCain never answer Obama were the money would come for vouchers.

Unanswered questions on special needs

tannic, Atlanta — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 02:33:36 GMT

Sarah knows more about energy than anyone on the planet. Now she knows more about autism than mostly anyone even though her child doesn't have autism. Sarah for President! Apparently, she's the smartest person on the planet. We don't even have to hold an election.

Unanswered questions on special needs

Maqsud, Dhaka, Bangladesh — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 02:33:46 GMT

I understand Palin would be understanding and compassionate about Autism. But that is all that McCain discussed about Palin's qualifications.
This sounded extremely childish compared to Obama's mention of Biden's qualification.

Unanswered questions on special needs

Samantha, Centennial, CO — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 02:33:51 GMT

So... Palin is automatically the star of special needs children because she is the parent of a six month old Down Syndrome child? No, that wasn't pandering, was it?

Add in the feigned sadness for Nancy Reagan... (wasn't it Ted Kennedy in a previous debate) and we all are supposed to Pavlovianlly salivate and collectively go, "awww...." and then experience warm and fuzzy feelings about Mr. Compassionate McCain.

Please.

Unanswered questions on special needs

Diana — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 02:33:52 GMT

Thank you Senator McCain, you finalized my decision on who I will be voting for. I will be voting for Sen Obama. Anyone who nationally lumps autism and Down's Syndrome obviously doesn't get it. Ask any parent with a special needs child. Just when I thought I may come back to the Repulican Party, you demonstrated again, the Republican Party is out of touch with working mothers.

Unanswered questions on special needs

Cathie Jones, St Louis MO — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 02:33:53 GMT

It's unfortunate that does know the difference between autism and mongoloid. Just because Palin has a mongoloid child does not make her an authority on autism. It is unfortunate also the McCain doesn't know that a mongoloid person can still live a productive life where an autistic person cannot.

Unanswered questions on special needs

JCR, CF, IA — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 02:34:45 GMT

If pasty face, smirks, shallow replies and condescension
are a home run, McCain hit a grand slam.

Unanswered questions on special needs

Christine, Milwaukee, WI — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 02:34:46 GMT

Simply giving birth to and caring for a child with Down's Syndrome should give Sarah Palin no brownie points. Her child was born into a privileged family who has all available resources to meet his needs and will for the remainder of his lifetime. She is FAR from the typical mother of a child with special needs, who often must choose between making a living and caring for their child, has limited to no health coverage, searching for health care providers, dealing with behavior problems, poor social support and resources - I could go on and on.

John McCain said at least twice that Sarah Palin knows about autism. I think he's confused, and probably does not understand the difference between trisomy 21 and autism. They are not the same thing. With the recent stats that as many as 1 in 150 children have autism, he was most likely shopping for votes.

Unanswered questions on special needs

Diana — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 02:34:54 GMT

Unanswered questions on special needs

Mary Coss, Tucson, Arizona — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 02:35:40 GMT

45 yrs ago in Nsg. school, one cause of Down's Syndrome child was known to be Either very young or older Mother. So why did a 44 yr. old decide to become pregnant? Ms. Palin certainlt does NOT have experience with either Autism or Down's Syndrome child, she has not been involved in the care of her special needs infant, nor has she had to struggle to proivide medical care for her child.

Unanswered questions on special needs

Charlene Bundschuh, Buffalo, New York — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 02:36:33 GMT

If Palin knew anything about special needs children she would raise her own child instead of running for VP. I am personally insulted by Johns comment on Palin Knowing about special needs children .How old is her son? I have a 22 year old daughter whom I have raised and If I ran for VP there is no way I could benefit my child. If I had a daughter that was pregnent at 17 years of age I would seriously consider changing the way I did buisness in my home. I do have three daughters.The ages are 22,26, and 19. I do know what I am talking about. Sara Palin you do not represent me! P.S I was a republican.

Unanswered questions on special needs

Dee Nelson, Cleveland, OH — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 02:39:14 GMT

Sarah Palin CUT special Needs funding before she had a special needs child. Now all of a sudden it is SO IMPORTANT to her. Sorry. It's self serving, but then again, at least she's consistent.

In 2007, before Palin assumed her office of governor, the State of Alaska FY2007 Governor’s Operating Budget for the Department of Education and Early Development Special Schools Component Budget Summary (this department provides services---not just school but services---for children with severe disabling conditions) includes approved and necessary budget increases to help special needs children. This budget was released in December, on the 15th to be precise, 2006.

In that budget, the budget actuals are (FY = Fiscal Year):

FY 2005 6945.30
FY 2007 Management Plan 7949.30
FY 2007 Governors 8265.30

Palin was elected governor in November of 2006, and assumed her position in January 2007.

When budget time rolled around in 2007, Sarah Palin---self professed advocate for special needs chldren, mother to a special needs child, aunt to a special needs child, and who promised in her acceptance speech last night that she was there for special needs children---slashed the budget. When she said she would be a "friend and advocate in the White House," I guess she just meant in words, not with actual money for needed services.

Here's what the State of Alaska FY2008 Governor’s Operating Budget for the Department of Education and Early Development Special Schools Component Budget Summary shows:

FY 2006 7949.30
FY 2007 Management Plan 3173.70
FY 2008 Governor 3156.00

You see right. Under Governor Palin, funds decreased from a planned budget of 8265.30 to 3156.0. That's a 62% decrease. Actual consumed amount went from 7949.3 to 3156.00, where it lingers to this day. That's a 60% decrease.

How many children lost services? Too many.

Unanswered questions on special needs

CKH, Seattle, WA — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 02:39:47 GMT

Palin's sister has a child with autism. Anyone who has this in their family is pretty well-versed in terms of the diagnosis process and what services are or are not available. I would think she's also had a few things come across her desk as governor--she has a record on special ed funding. McCain was a co-sponsor of the IDEA--Joe Biden AWOL on this. Instead of foreign policy (please leave that to Secretary of State Leiberman), this would be a fine area for Palin to immediately develop as a VP. I think your questions are good & I bet the McCain campaign can answer them for you if you ask instead of speculate & claim you don't know. Go do some journalism and find out for us.

Unanswered questions on special needs

Cathy — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 02:40:27 GMT

I am a parent of two children with autism and I know first hand of negative impact of Washington's Tax Cuts!
My children or not better off then they were 8 years ago. And I did not hear McCain say anything but patronizing words to parents like me. I know by experience of 10 years of raising special needs children-something Palin has had the luxury of not having to worry about yet, it will money, and lots of it to support our special needs children. Ask any Joe-six pack who must fight their local public school and state health and human services dept. every day.
Obama is right on the money because he speaks the truth- He is my children's earth angel!!!

Unanswered questions on special needs

Ann Martin, Burke, VA — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 02:40:58 GMT

RE:Palin. The question was whether the VP
candidates are qualified, and McCain's assertion
that she's somehow an expert on the handicapped
says a lot about her lack of qualifications;
having a special needs child does not qualify
anyone for public office, and he couldn't come up with a legitimate qualification.

Unanswered questions on special needs

GB — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 02:43:08 GMT

Didn't Palin cut funding for special needs causes for children in Alaska before she had her child?

Unanswered questions on special needs

elsie — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 02:43:56 GMT

this sounds like a case of McCain lumping all special needs together hoping no one will challenge it or he has no clue what he is talking about or really has not taken the time to get to know sarah flakin'. Her 4 month old infant has Down Syndrome, that is not the same as autism, unless he or she is saying Trig has both..based on what evidence. And she is NOT the only mother who know something abiout autism, Just ask the thousnads of mothers and fathers who work with their autistic children on a daily basis.

Unanswered questions on special needs

Boulder, CO — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 02:44:38 GMT

McCain thinks Palin's baby has Autism. As far as he is concerned, they are all the same.

Unanswered questions on special needs

Rickey Williams — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 02:44:52 GMT

I HAVE BIG CONCERNS ABOUT PALIN??? WHEN SHE CUT THE BUDGET IN HALF IN HER STATE FOR SPECIAL NEEDS. I HAVE A AUTISM CHILD. FOR MCcCAIN TO LIE OVER & OVER IS UNFORGIVABLE.

Unanswered questions on special needs

Mavsreader, Fort Worth, TX — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 02:45:33 GMT

More "I care" rhetoric from McCain. Check his record on special needs children.

Unanswered questions on special needs

Lane Nevada — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 02:45:56 GMT

Montanaro: You are truly an empty talking head. Once again,as demonstrated by your mindless rhetoric, the basis of evidence increases, supporting the argument that the news media has indeed been bought and paid for by the liberal left.

Unanswered questions on special needs

Artha Ortiz — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 02:46:08 GMT

McCain doesn't know the difference, apparently, between Down Syndrom and Autism! Sarah's child is a Down Syndrom baby. So much for knowing your running mate! Not just once buy twice he referred to Autism and Sarah's dilemma. Shame on you, John McCain.

Unanswered questions on special needs

TJones, Phila., PA — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 02:46:38 GMT

Palin may be empathetic in knowing what other parents may be going through but she is no expert; an expert is someone who has spent years dealing with whatever the topic is they are said to be expert of. Her son is 5 mos. old; she is just beginning to learn and experience what it takes and what is ahead in raising a child with special needs. By the way, her son has Downs Syndrome, not Autism...McCain, learn the difference before spouting off. Seriously, McCain came off as "any disability will do; it's not important if I call the right one." He was offensive and condescending in his disregard for claiming the correct disability and for the vocal tone used when referencing the disability. The man is simply offensive, rude and out of touch.

Unanswered questions on special needs

Weatherford, Texas 76086 — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 02:46:45 GMT

I have taught special ed children for twelve years. Trig is six-months old, correct? Downs syndrome children also have many additional health problems, from heart problems to breathing difficulties. Yet, she said yes to the offer of becoming the Vice President of the United States. She hasn't been around that child enough, nor is that child old enough for her to be the most informed person when it comes to special needs children. As a mom of three and a teacher of special needs children, I don't have any respect for a woman who would take a job that would be so time consuming and away from her newborn.

Weatherford, Texas

Unanswered questions on special needs

Diane — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 02:46:55 GMT

I read somewhere (one of the 'big' papers) that Palin cut the special Olympic budget in Alaska a while back. Can anyone verify that?

Unanswered questions on special needs

S.B. Stein E.B. NJ — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 02:47:35 GMT

McCain said that he is looking for autism when Palin's son has Down syndrome. There isn't a cure or a reason why Down syndrome happens. Where do the two meet? I don't think that they do. The requirements for these special needs kids are going to be different.

Unanswered questions on special needs

Kathy, Signal Mountain, TN — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 02:47:35 GMT

EXACTLY! Parents of children with special needs need COMMITMENT to make real change. These families need help in accessing appropriate healthcare, educational services, respite support, and more. Bit by bit, federal programs and services for children with special needs have been weakened over the last eight years. Families are struggling . . . they need REAL help not empty promises of "understanding" without any real plan for assistance.

Unanswered questions on special needs

Dollbaby, Gwynn Oakl, MD — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 02:47:41 GMT

Sarah Palin knows about enough about special needs as she does about New Hampshire being a mid-western state and being able to see Russia from her backdoor. It is not enough to have a special needs child and drag him from campaing event to campaign event to say you understand. If you understood Downs syndrone that noise, ligts, etc, usually overstimulate and bother the infant. I have two special needs children and I wound not consider her my friend or advocate in or out of the white house.

Unanswered questions on special needs

Mrs L from Texas — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 02:49:51 GMT

Again, with McCains "freeze on spending" he cannot help ANY child.

Unanswered questions on special needs

Lefty, Staunton, VA — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 02:50:21 GMT

First McCain puts his wife and Palin up as a shield. Now he puts a baby up. That's what I like to see in a president.

Unanswered questions on special needs

Gail Dering Hartville, MO — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 02:51:17 GMT

There's not much Palin can do about finding a cure for autism if McCain doesn't want to "throw money" at the problem. Usually it is the first lady who takes up a special cause (literacy, clean up America) but as McCain was unable to give qualifications for Palin as potential president one must assume she can only fill the first lady role instead of VP.

Unanswered questions on special needs

Christine Deel, Irving,TX — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 02:52:00 GMT

As as a parent of a "special needs child" I have been an advocate for my child all through the school system, there is little to no help no matter how hard you try. Now I have a "specail needs child" that is a "special needs adult" at the has "graduated" from school at the states required age of 21 yet the is even less support and services for a "special needs adult" a physical age vs a mental age no one willing to employe the "special needs" and poor state and community services and support. So where is the help after school and what will it be like for Trig Palin when he is an adult with a mental disability? What is the policy for the help to parents and "special needs adults" where is the funding for job training and placement for someone who is an adult with the mind and skills of a child? They need life long help and as a parent we need support and options most importantly for those whom want to keep there loved one in the home and not send to a state or group home.

Unanswered questions on special needs

Montanan — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 02:54:59 GMT

As a mother with a special needs son, who by the way is our responsibility until the day we or he dies....Sarah Palin does not represent us. She does not know how it feels to care for a special needs child day in and day out, she returned to work after less than a week. I am with our son 24/7. We are on the brink of financial ruin, his health care is
a 500 mile round trip drive from home. So don't be fooled by her for one minute. Does she have secret
service and a nanny squad in tow?
Every American's right should be for clean air,
clean food, and health care. Obama's preventative
medicine health care policy would save billions of dollars and millions of lives.

Unanswered questions on special needs

Lisa T, Columbia MO — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 02:57:40 GMT

McCain mentioned that Palin knows more about the issue of autism than nearly anyone. What evidence is there of that?

Because Palin has a child with Down Syndrome, it can be safely assumed she feels a connection with parents of children with special needs.
- - - -

It's because McCain doesn't even know the special need of his own running mate's child! You know -- it's like the Sunnis and Shias. They're all the same (to him).

Unanswered questions on special needs

Marcie Telfer, Battle Creek,MI — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 02:58:20 GMT

As a parent of a young man (age 20) who has autism; I was really angered by John McCain using autism as an issue. What has he, or his party done over the past 8 years to increase funding for special education or research into the causes of autism? Nothing, in my opinion. I doubt if Sarah Palin knows anything about autism; she has a baby with downs. She has not even begun to know what it it like to be the parent of a special needs child. I think they are trying to capitalize on her son's disability, and I find that appalling.

Unanswered questions on special needs

Daisy Hodo, Arizona — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 02:59:22 GMT

Mentioning the baby was a shameless and disgusting piece of politicing. There is not "cure" for Autism. Yet again, McCain shows how little he cares.
Free Trade; Did anyone notice that McCain cared nothing of those workers in foreign countries that we trade with who are being abused. Please Miss Maddow mention this point.

Unanswered questions on special needs

LeeAnn , Eugene, OR — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 02:59:42 GMT

I think McCain has the Down's Syndrome from which Trig Palin actually suffers confused with autism. A pretty big gaffe when you consider that Sarah is his running.

Unanswered questions on special needs

Laurentia Koulermos, Weatherford, Texas — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 03:00:16 GMT

How can Palin know more about the needs of autism when her child has Downs Syndrome? Her child is only six-months old. How does that make her more informed than a parent of a 30-year old special needs child?

Laurentia Koulermos, Weatherford Texas

Unanswered questions on special needs

K McClean, Bakersfield, CA — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 03:00:27 GMT

First, no parent of a child with Down syndrome can assume to know what it's like to have a child with autism. I know. I'm a parent of a 17 yr old son with Down syndrome.
What did Sarah Palin do as governor to improve the life of people with special needs outside of federal mandated laws during her reign as Governor? Did she care before her personal life was affected? I am disgusted with the comments that Palin is my advocate. I refute it.

Unanswered questions on special needs

Colin Kloecker, Minneapilis, Minnesota — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 03:01:26 GMT

Let's just go with the easiest explanation. He was confused and probably meant to bring up Palin's experience with Down Syndrome. In either case, He's provided no specifics to back up his claims tonight.

Unanswered questions on special needs

Elizabeth — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 03:05:04 GMT

McCain has done this several times before --- apparently he doesn't understand the difference between autism and Down's Syndrome, or thinks that Trig is autistic ..... or something. Who knows, but he keeps doing it.

Unanswered questions on special needs

Bruce Hunt, Austin, TX — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 03:07:21 GMT

Palin's sister Heather Bruce has a child with autism. Not sure that really makes Palin an expert on the subject, and not sure that's what McCain had in mind when he went on and on about her knowledge of autism, but she does have a personal connection to the subject, and it doesn't involve Trig.

Unanswered questions on special needs

Mike McCann, Eugene, OR — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 03:09:48 GMT

This was a very strange thread in the debate. Twice Sen. McCain said that Sarah Palin knows more about autism than other people. I suspect that he mis-spoke. Could it be that he believes that Ms. Palin's son has autism?

Unanswered questions on special needs

Ron Thibodeau Boston, MA — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 03:11:34 GMT

Yes, I found it very odd that John McCain repeatedly brought up 'autism' when referring to Gov. Palin and her child. Down's Syndrome and Autism are two different afflictions.

My sister's girlfriend has a child with autism, so I do appreciate the issue being brought up. But I think that the focus should be on all issues of children's disabilities, not on one disease/affliction in particular.

Unanswered questions on special needs

maggie mckimmey, woodinville, washington — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 03:14:30 GMT

McCain kept suggesting that Palin had special knowledge about autism, because he doesn't know that autism is not the same thing as down syndrome.

Unanswered questions on special needs

Ben Foster, Chicago, IL — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 03:14:38 GMT

Maybe it was a attempt to confuse Obama, Palin has a nephew with Autism.

http://bit.ly/4AqSX

Unanswered questions on special needs

PAMama4Obama — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 03:15:09 GMT

<<We don't know. Nothing was or has been laid out.>>

And that, my friends, summarizes what a McCain/Palin administration would be like in a nutshell.

Unanswered questions on special needs

Chinese for Obama — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 03:15:47 GMT

Is that my TV problem? All through the debate, I am bothered that Obama's picture is too far on the left while McCain is more in the center of the right half. For a while, Obama's mouth was almost next to the edge of the TV. Maybe I just watched from a small TV. What about a lot of other people watched with a small TV?

I am a mother of a special needs child, I am a Christian. I do not believe Palin understands what it is like to be a mother of a special needs child. She lies in front of her children. She does not support funding for stem cell research which our children badly needs. On top of all, she hardly has time for her children let alone the special needs one. She should have stopped radicals calling for "kill him" referring Obama.

Unanswered questions on special needs

B.W. Sellmeyer K.C. MO. — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 03:19:29 GMT

Palin is as a qualified v.p. as much as Harry Truman, the only true working persons Democrat not many since.I think its time we take the Democratic party back from the Left/Socialist party and be a Working persons, gun owning, God fearing people we were before the left took over. Oh for the good old days when the Democrats worried about the country and not the next way to control us and tax us even after Death. One fed up Democrat

Unanswered questions on special needs

Brenda, PA — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 03:22:27 GMT

Of course, McCain is as usual pandering to the voters not to the people. Having a brother with cerebal palsy I find this pandering very insulting. It also makes me want to scream at Palin for two reasons.

1. Having a family member with a disability does not mean you fully understand me. I do not have the resources that she may have to make her and her son's life more managable.

2. If she is supposed to be an advocate for the disabled the why did she cut funding for the Alaskan Special Olympics in half during her term. At the same time she put her state into debt building a sport complex designed for "normal" people. This is why I feel she is pandering to me and other families in our position.

Unanswered questions on special needs

Kevin Gulliver, Las Vegas, NV — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 03:24:10 GMT

John McCain's reference to Ms. Palin's child with "Autism" as a qualification for Palin to serve as president is so bizarre and out of touch that it reinforces the image of him not only being out of touch but also an image of him having no idea who his running mate is.

Unanswered questions on special needs

zardac, Portland Oregon — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 03:26:37 GMT

Our family just watched the debate together.

Immediately after McCain made his statement, our 14 year old opined that if knowledge of autism was a qualification for higher office, we should start packing our bags.
Good insight from a teen with autism.

Unanswered questions on special needs

Tom Andres, Greensboro, NC — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 03:30:11 GMT

This was repeated through-out the debate. McCain spoke in generalities and hinted at efforts, programs and actions without substanance in his words. His intend was to poke at differences between him and Obama but it only exposed his inability to manafest an idea. He tried his best to be someone who had a plan but failed to express it in anyway anyone but "joe" could understand.

Unanswered questions on special needs

Andrea :: Born In Kodiak, ALASKA! — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 03:31:50 GMT

Look at Obama's website! He speaks about children with disability, educating them. This is one of the most important issues for a parent with a disability.

McCain knows nothing, nor does he truly care... (IMHO)

Unanswered questions on special needs

Lee Hammond, Stanford, KY — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 03:38:48 GMT

Sarah Palin has a nephew with autism. That's how she knows what it is like. I would assume she respects her sister's family's privacy and doesn't want her nephew to be a political pawn is why she doesn't mention it. I respect that. McCain clearly said that he wanted to fund research into finding a cause. He has gone on the record in the past that more research needs to be done. He has fought congress, on both sides, on this issue numberous times. Look at his record. I have, extensively. He has even co-sponsored bills supporting the autism community, as well as voting against bills that do nothing but support the pharmaceutical companies. Barack Obama promised us nothing but more of the same. As a mother to an autistic child, I can tell you, we NEED McCain/Palin!

Unanswered questions on special needs

Martha Ramirez — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 03:41:38 GMT

Governor Palin doesn't have a clue yet. My autistic son is almost 21. He wasn't even diagnosed until age 3. I have been very active over the years with Special Olympics and my son's programs -- I have been president of the special needs booster club at his high school for the last 7 years. While both autistic children and Down syndrome children fall under the "special needs" umbrella, there is a world of difference. Down syndrome can be diagnosed in the womb and parents can be easily educated on what to expect in terms of health issues, educational issues, etc. Down children tend to be loving, outgoing rays of sunshine in the world. Autistic children, depending on where they fall on the spectrum, can be totally withdrawn and living in their own world, unwilling to give a hug or make eye contact, unable to speak, to an individual who can be educated and trained to be fairly functional and productive adults, albeit with (usually) socialization issues. Putting aside the fact that Governor Palin has a Down syndrome child and not an autistic child -- she does not and could not have a clue what is in store for her and her family. Our children never grow up and if they leave home, it will usually be to live in a group home, either by choice or because their behavioral problems are so severe that they cannot be handled at home. Most of us will never have the joy of being grandparents and will always bear the guilt of somehow creating a child who is less than perfect, no matter how many times we are told by the doctors that they don't know what causes autism and there is nothing that you did wrong. Each autistic child is a unique individual and fighting the system until they turn 22 to get them the best education and services that they need is exhausting and mind-numbing at best. The divorce rate among parents of special needs children is extremely high -- on the other hand, those of us who have been lucky enough to find a spouse who willingly takes on the challenge of loving one of our children is a very special person in their own right. We all have our stories and Governor Palin will have hers as well. In one respect, she will be in a position as governor to impact the level of funding for special education programs -- which are mandated by the federal government, but only partially funded, putting the burden on the states and local school districts to try and meet the needs of our children and their parents/families. It is a subject that (almost) every parent of a special needs child feels strongly about. There is no one else to advocate for our kids and that makes us very strong and outspoken parents.

Unanswered questions on special needs

Chris, Anchorage, AK — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 03:42:23 GMT

Same response as to previous comment on Trig and autism: did Sen McCain really say the Gov Palin has the world's best understanding of special needs children, because she has a special needs baby?

Can she still see Russia from there?

She has no concept of what being the mother of a special needs child is. Hers is still a baby.

And John, saying this straight-faced while looking and sounding humbled by her pain and suffering is ridiculous in the extreme. I hope others, especially in the special needs community take note of this.

Unanswered questions on special needs

matt, long island ny — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 03:42:26 GMT

Sarah Palin has been a special needs parent for a whopping 5 months? So that makes her understand this better than most? Too bad McCain doesn't know that difference between Autism and Down Syndrome.

Unanswered questions on special needs

Tim — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 03:44:35 GMT

Does McCain think Tripp Palin is Autistic?

Unanswered questions on special needs

Jessica, Montgomery, Alabama — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 03:46:23 GMT

Good point. Again, I think this is using a poor child to pander to people like my family that has a child with Autism and has to fight for every resource to help us. We have seen resources shrivel up and blow away in the last 8 years because we don't matter to these people. What does Palin really know about special needs children. She has been a parent of a special needs child for 6 months. Try living with a child with Autism for 12 years and not being able to leave him with anyone, even to get a job. No health insurance, no support! Let's get real and get some specifics.

Unanswered questions on special needs

Nancy Jackson, Decatur, Illinois — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 03:46:53 GMT

Don't I remember hearing that Palin cut funding for special needs education in Alaska? And what was that McCain said about 'Troops to Teachers' and about there being some sort of a waive of certification requirements? Does he really believe that a soldier can walk into a classroom and teach as well as a teacher who has been specifically educated and certified to do this? Maybe I'm confused, but that's what it sounded like. Which, if it is, is one big slap in the face of every hard working teacher out there to think that a person who has been trained for war can just walk in and teach just as easily as they and won't even need to be certified!

Unanswered questions on special needs

John Doe, Asheville, NC — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 03:47:20 GMT

My oldest son has autism. During the debate, my wife and I were shocked to find out that we have become a hot commodity in the 2008 election after fighting for four years in the wilderness to get appropriate services for our son. Every step of the way (both at school and in the health care system) we have been told that their is no money to help our son properly.

I can see why the candidates all of a sudden want to bring up autism: 1 in 160 children have autism. Coming out ahead on this issue gets the parents and grandparents of all of those kids on your side. People who have suffered with a child with autism and have had every door slammed in their face for a lack of resources are going to give that candidate their vote.

I am registered independent. I thought Sen. Obama cut through the BS on this issue. Every time Sen. McCain talked about a spending freeze in the past, we related it to our situation and knew how much more disastrous it would be for special needs kids and their families. Sen. Obama rightly pointed out that you can't have a spending freeze and help special needs kids at the same time. Sen. McCain had no response and we felt like he got caught using our tragedy for his political ends. Show me the money and I'll believe you want help kids with Special Needs.

Unanswered questions on special needs

Lisa Travers Holt, Sacramento, CA — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 03:48:09 GMT

I work in the field of disability and vocational rehabilitation as a counselor. I have a Master's degree and still don't assume to know everything about my client's disabilities. I have doubts that Sarah Palin "knows more about the issue of autism than nearly anyone". It is an area of intensive research and development and to my knowledge none of it is happening in Anchorage. Having an infant with Down's Syndrome does not make one an authority on all disabilities. Truly, Ms. Palin is in for quite a journey, the twists and turns she cannot even imagine. Perhaps McCain in his comment was trying to embellish his ticket's native knowledge base. Heck, Palin is a foreign policy expert because she lives next door to Russia!

Unanswered questions on special needs

BJ Bolender — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 03:50:36 GMT

I could no longer stand to hear either candidate give kudos and praise to Sarah Palin because she has a "special needs" child and "understands"... give me a break! The baby with Down Syndrome is only 6 months old now and mother has been away most of his life. As a special education teacher and mother of a young man now 29 with severe disabilities, I made up a composition to post to my photo blog regarding this issue: http://www.flickr.com/photos/cobalt/2946278374/

I really hope this issue is carefully considered for those who have concerns about health insurance and education in America.

Unanswered questions on special needs

God Loving Christian Voting For Obama, Rancho Cucamonga, California — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 04:17:54 GMT

The McPalin Team insults parents with special needs children by assuming that just because her son has down syndrome..they will do more for the families that need the help..but I can't say that I am surprised..this is what they do..they say they will reform Washington..but will not tell us how..they say that she will do more for the special needs families..but does not tell us how..if they really want to get more votes (including mine) they need to stop assuming the american people are dumb..WE ARE NOT!! Palin should stop wasting time talking about how Obama hangs with the 60's terrorist at the rallies( I do not care about this and know many people who do not care) and start talking about what she is going to do..what changes is she for? She should have addressed this issue at her 1st rally!At her debate.. why did she not talk about a detailed plan for the special needs..not just said I will be an advocate for special needs children..this is why they are losing!! YOU NEED TO TALK ABOUT HOW YOU WILL DO IT! Stop talking to JOE SIX PACK and HOCKEY MOMS..and start talking to concerned Americans who want answers..and please if you decide to talk to us about this..don't talk to us like we are a bunch of okkie dokies!! I don't want to hear your "you betcha I am going to do something"...mother to mother..I think you should stop using your baby as a prop..its just not right..don't use that baby to advance you political career..

Unanswered questions on special needs

Leslie — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 04:25:15 GMT

Trigg Palin has Down's Syndrome. McCain is an IDIOT!!
But none the less, he doesn't want to fund any special funding for handicapped children. McCain wants to HATCHET all funding on everything!

He should be ashamed of himself! If we need to cut off funding for research on children's needs, we need to rethink this whole thing! Children are our future!

McCain is totally gone!

Barack Obama understands families and their special needs.

Obama Rocks!!

McCain, I hate to tell you this, but you are done!!

Unanswered questions on special needs

mary — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 04:25:55 GMT

Palin CANNOT know everything about a Down Syndrome child - hers is only four months old and is much like any other infant. The real challenges come later.

Unanswered questions on special needs

Sandi Harrington, Oakland, California — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 04:30:20 GMT

I'd also be interested in knowing where McCain and Palin stand on stem cell research if this is such a priority for either of them.

Unanswered questions on special needs

Kim, Jacksonville, Florida — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 04:53:49 GMT

According to McCain, for the past two debates, he proposes a freeze on all programs (EXCEPT the military) so I do not understand how he intends to make any changes for those with special needs.

Unanswered questions on special needs

Juanon — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 05:03:08 GMT

Were my wife and I the only ones to catch that McCain mistakenly referred to Trig Palin as having autism rather than Down Syndrome?

Are the commentators and HuffPo staying away from that because of....?

The fact that he knows his running mate so little, that he has such little interest in getting to know her, that he sees her and her child (all of her children actually) as just political props where the details don't matter, is HUGELY revealing about McCain as a person.

Unanswered questions on special needs

hopeful in hawaii — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 05:20:06 GMT

I hate to say this but there is NO cure for either Autism (not Trig's disability) or Down Syndrome. The issue is funding education to work with these children to ensure that they meet their potential...whatever it may be. Obama is right--it starts with early childhood...

Unanswered questions on special needs

Linda, Louisville, KY — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 05:29:22 GMT

Not one reference mentioned during this debate speaking to the exposed abuse of the company that the bail out saved from folding who just spent well over $80,000 just for lodging in an exclusive area for a weekend social event for the top execs. That $80 grand was just a portion of what they actually spent...of bail out money...and it showed them on TV carrying what appeared to be pheasant from their shooting game outing over the weekend relaxation trip.

It made me sick. The top execs said it had already been scheduled beforeeeeeeeee the crash, so they felt they should all go on and take advantage of it given all the stresssss they had been under.

OMGOSH...NO THEY DIDN'T !!!! Sadly, here we go again giving all our tax money to bail out these companies that were such poor stewards of their investors and/or customers money to begin with. Their is so much abuse for frivolous spending like this going on still. How can this just keep on repeating itself before someone at the helm...such as the sitting president...takes legal action including arrest for theft of what turns out to be one way or another our tax dollars used for bail out funds that we are all going to suffer for n0w???

I am livid over this. Did anyone else see that Wednesday evening on ABC ?

Linda

Unanswered questions on special needs

Mark Miller, Washington, DC — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 05:30:30 GMT

I've been saying this for a month and a half in my blog, http://specialneeds08.blogspot.com. Read the positions, listen to the speeches. McCain and Palin have no plan in this area, and people aren't buying their empty rhetoric.

Unanswered questions on special needs

Ritchie — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 05:31:46 GMT

Palin's nephew has autism.

Unanswered questions on special needs

Leah, Houston, Texas — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 05:35:17 GMT

I think McCain was confused and said Autism instead of Down's Syndrome. This highlights the fact that Senator McCain doesn't know Gov. Palin very well or he has a memory problem.