First thoughts: The last dance

Mia in Miami — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 14:05:47 GMT

Tee-hee, Obama wins again showing that McCain is a cranky old guy and his only ambition is to get in that White House. What, did Bush primise it to him or something?

Look people, if you really want to know how Obama would increase taxes, read Forbes Magazine latest issue it breaks down each income level increase. Please, please don't listen to these dumb talking heads, they don't know what they are talking about.

First thoughts: The last dance

Suz, western ny — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 14:06:07 GMT

McCain continues to look and act unpresidential yes he got in his jabs, good for him. However, at a time when this country is in crisis I think Americans are looking for answers and a plan which Obama has laid out and stuck with. McCains temperament was irritable, angry, and obvious he was looking for a fight with Obama. Again this is not what the country wants or needs.

People may disagree with Obamas plans, however he at least has stuck to a plan appears willing to change as needed.

McCain, where was your talk about social security and all you new plans of the recent days.

You didnt bring it up because you were to busy trying to continue an attack that Amercia is sick of

Sorry John you just dont get it.

Suz, western NY

First thoughts: The last dance

marty holloman, columbia,s.c. — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 14:07:08 GMT

Sorry guys but Joe the Plumber is no game changer nor was he a big deal to most of us. Joe will be fine,
the vast majority of us do not make $250,000 a year.Joes familey wont do without one thing, most of our famileys will. May Joe prosper and put a lot of people to work, may he be able to send his children through school and may he be able to save for his future. I wish all these things for Joe the plumber.
The last 8 years the middle clas and working poor have been forgotten. Gas-up Grocerys-up Medical care-up. Education-up and remember most of us are going
backward, lower pay, job losses. All of you Christians
out there how about the least of us. Where are you when we need you, voting for a republican.

Obama/Biden
marty

First thoughts: The last dance

jesse St.Paul Minnesota — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 14:07:28 GMT

Please,,,,the sercet service requested it.LOL does Obama have one in his yard?This is another example of the bomber abuss of power to for personal gain.These companeys pay a monthly fee to use private property.Now I know the Bomber has plenty of scratch,but they see hard times and maybe needed the extra loot.All those houses might need paint.

First thoughts: The last dance

Patricia Gordon, Brookline, MA — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 14:08:17 GMT

Part of the reason the Democratic primary season went on for 15 months was the Clintons refusal to concede after it became clear that Hilary could not win a majority of the delegates. Had they accepted that reality as well as their lack of funds, and put the Democratic party first, the primary season could have ended at least several months earlier.

First thoughts: The last dance

Mrs J - Illinois — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 14:08:38 GMT

Certification for teachers is a serious issue. However, it was dismissed as insignificant and inconsequential by Senator McCain last night.

Under the present system, prospective teachers must fill many requirements and pass tests in order to qualify for certification. They must continue with education and training in order to retain that certification.

Proper certification also requires an investigation into the background of a candidate and, in most
cases, protects students from the "unsavory" elements of our society.

Too many believe that any one can teach school. As simple as that sounds - this is just not true. It takes a dedicated and intelligent person to be successful in the classroom. It also takes one who is willing to put other desires and demands of life aside while tending to the needs of today's youth. It takes one who is willing to put self aside in the service of others.

For every hour in the classroom, there are many hours spent on preparation. There are even more hours spent in serious consideration for problems exhibited by students. It frequently takes more hours to find "the one way" to reach one child with special needs.

I am in favor of increasing the numbers of those willing to serve our nation in this capacity but I do not favor relinquishing proper preparation for that job.

Senator McCain - please investigate topics before delivering judgment.

Obama/Biden '08

First thoughts: The last dance

Lisa, Michigan — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 14:09:41 GMT

I keep hearing what a great line it was when McCain told Obama that if he wanted to run against Bush he should have done if 4 years ago. Would someone please tell why it was okay to refer to Clinton constantly when John Kerry was running for President??? It was all we heard, especially from Faux News and Elisbeth Hasselbeck. HYPOCRITS!

First thoughts: The last dance

rawumber, york, pa — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 14:10:52 GMT

McCain's comment on the "health" of woman considering an abortion was absolutely reprehensible. I felt it disrespected, maligned, and marginilized women and their perspective on this issue. It conveyed that the child's life is more valuable than the health and life of the mother. I thought all life as sacred? By McCain's standard if you are contemplating abortion, even for a "health" reason, you forfeit the value of your own life. As if his 90% affiliation with W. were not scary enough, his remarks on "women's health" last night propeled him into realm of the deepest darkest nightmare.

First thoughts: The last dance

J. Ellis, Virginia — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 14:11:01 GMT

Thank you, Sen. Obama. I remember New Hampshire and these two words will have a very steadying effect on me. I'm thrilled with the polls today, but don't quite trust them or I should say, I don't trust people when they are in the privacy of the voting booth.

I have increased my canvassing activity in the past weeks and will do all I can to get Sen. Obama elected. Gotta run now to post another donation to the Obama/Biden campaign.

GO OBAMA/BIDEN

First thoughts: The last dance

Sam the Plummer, Ohio — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 14:11:17 GMT

Chuck Todd is no Tim Russert. We knew Russert was a Democrat but he was fair. With Todd, it is obvious he is in love with Obama.

First thoughts: The last dance

tigertongue — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 14:20:58 GMT

Can someone please ask Obama and even McCain at this stage- how exactly are they going to fix the corruption in wall street? Why for example are they not calling for prosecution of relevant wall steet execs today?

First thoughts: The last dance

M. Carl — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 14:22:04 GMT

I wish when the candidates discussed the income of "Joe, the plumber", they would have indicated whether his $250,000 income was gross or net income.

Many small business people I know gross $250,000+ per year, but after paying decent wages to their employees, plus paying all the necessary employee expenses, such as liability and health insurance, and social security contributions, other office overhead, etc., most small business persons net, and pay taxes on, far less than $250,000.

If "Joe, the plumber" is netting $250,000 he is certainly not "middle class" in any sense of the word, as understood by me or any of my acquaintences.

First thoughts: The last dance

John Alexander, Edinboro,PA — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 14:22:06 GMT

McCain played to his base and ignored the rest of America, I don't think he got any undecided voters to move towards him.
His facial expressions last night were silly and showed a man so caught emotionally in this race that he can't see the big picture.
Last night I watched a politician destroy himself with mugging and repetitive stump speech information.
Sorry John, you just don't get it!

First thoughts: The last dance

Robert thornton, Douglasville, GA — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 14:22:24 GMT

It's obvious that McCain didn't counter Obama's healthcare program very well. McCain should have pointed out that if the government will allow people without employer sponsored healthcare to purchase healthcare from a government sponsored program, many employer's will drop there employer sponsored plans which will in turn nationalize healthcare.

Just think about it. Why should an employer continue healthcare for its' employees if a more affordable plan is available through the government?

First thoughts: The last dance

BUSTEM HARD — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 14:22:25 GMT

Obama is nothing but words. Tax and spend is his policies and nothing will change that. Voting McCain is to have someone with vast experience who will make a stronger America. Obama is a socialist and wants to move America in that direction. He's anti gun rights and other rights will be removed too. all this so the democrats know they can control the people. He can kiss off I'm voting McCain.

GO MCCAIN

First thoughts: The last dance

Former Republican — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 14:22:26 GMT

I think Barack Obama won handily over John McCain. John's facial expressions and demeanor suggested he couldn't stand being next to Obama and was clearly confused and flustered at times. I think the American people saw 'loud and clear' who the better candidate is and that is clearly Barack Obama.

God Bless President Obama!

First thoughts: The last dance

April Barnett, Ogden Utah — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 14:23:14 GMT

Watching the debate last night McCain just gives the impression of an angry angry old man. I believe he thinks he's entitled to this position of president, because he served our country. I am thankful for his service, but that is NOT a pass to the white house. I believe that's why he is so bitter with Obama, how dare this man who has not paid his dues take this away from me. I honsetly do not know what the draw is for Obama, but it's there. I do know even though McCain speaks about his experience I would rather see someone who has not been in Washington so long that they are tainted by being there for so long, and that's why Obama will get my vote.

First thoughts: The last dance

Alice, Ormond Beach, Florida — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 14:23:25 GMT

Dear Chuck,

You were really good this morning on Morning Joe. You are my favorite of all the people on TV.

What comes across consistently, to me, with Mr. McCain is that he is always mean and always putting his opponents down. I don't want a mean man in the White House. We need to be uplifted now more than ever. We need some sort of optimism. Someone like McCain comes off as being closeminded. That is a real turn off for me. I own a business with about 10 employees and my company has been successful because of it's "Can Do" attitude and it's ability to look at a problem and find an answer without hurting someone or without insulting someone. That is business 101. It is rediculous to me for us to elect a man that can be such a downer and is so wrapped up in himself.
You can get a whole lot more with honey then you can with vinegar!
And don't get me started on Palin! She is a liar, a politician who will continue to work in denial, she is not realistic and does not have her finger on the pulse of ALL Americans. We are a diverse culture and we are made up of all different ethnic, religious, economic and professional people. This is what makes the country so great. She will only be the leader for "Joe Sixpack", Hockey Moms, Joe the Plumber and the Theocratic Radical Alaskan party. We need a President and Vice President who will be the Leaders for ALL THE PEOPLE.
Anyway, I enjoy your reports, I enjoy your fair and balanced analysis and wish you the best of luck in the future.
Sincerely,
Alice

First thoughts: The last dance

Cindy Lou, TX — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 14:23:25 GMT

I'm glad the campaign season is coming to a close. The spin and negative attacks have worn me out.

McCain came across as an angry man last night. He was too negative, and his attacks diverted time away from policy issues like job creation. McCain's fighting image probably played well with FOX News/Rush Limbaugh Republicans, but it certainly didn't give comfort to moderate voters.

Poor Joe the Plumber. It's not that voters didn't like him, per se, it's that he doesn't represent a shared struggle--he represents a Republican struggle. And his name was overused as a club, not a sympathetic case study.

Finally, the McCain/Palin narrative that Obama is some scary dude who's not ready to lead doesn't mesh with the calm, thoughtful, intelligent Obama who's shown up during the debates and with whom voters connect. Only the most hardened voters think Obama is plotting the overthrow of America.

McCain's rationale for his candidacy was that he was POW. Voters need to know more than that before voting for him as president. Sadly for him, he didn't give it to them.

Obama/Biden '08

First thoughts: The last dance

CT,farmington,nm — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 14:23:56 GMT

I JUST HAVE ONE QUESTION. WHAT EVER HAPPENED TO THE CONSERVATIVE REPUBLICANS-AREN'T THEY SUPPOSED TO BE SUCH CHRISTIANS. ALL I HAVE SEEN FROM THEM IS UGLY,UGLY AND UGLY. WHAT WOULD JESUS DO. SORRY BUT I AM SADDENED BY ALL THE COMMENTS COMING FROM PALIN AND MCCAIN AT RALLIES. MS.PALIN USED HER POWERS UNLAWFULLY IN ALASKA, AND ALSO APPROVED THE BRIDGE TO KNOW WHERE THEN SAID NO THANKS AND KEPT THE MONEY. I AM VERY PROUD OF OBAMA/BIDEN FOR BEING SO COURTEOUS TO MCCAIN/PALIN. WE ALL APPRECIATE SOMEONE MORE PRESIDENTIAL THAN SOMEONE SO NEGATIVE. BY THE WAY WAS MCCAIN USING LIPSTICK LAST NIGHT IN THE DEBATE? THANK YOU SENATOR OBAMA AND SENATOR BIDEN FOR BEING SO PROFESSIONAL AND MAKING THE USA LOOK GOOD. MCCAIN YOU NEED TO TAKE A CHILL PILL.

First thoughts: The last dance

Diane from Illinois — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 14:24:11 GMT

Last dance, for sure. McFossil can put away his ballet slippers; it's over. He did nothing to make the polls turn in the next 19 days, other than INCREASE for Obama. He looked like an angry old man (again) and couldn't even make complete sentences because he wanted to spew forth the Republican talking points and his thoughts were a little ahead of his mouth; however that make him look confused most of the time. I'm glad the deabtes are over, but they sure highlighted how much a McCain presidency would be based on shooting from the hip and not, careful, thoughtful, dialogue that the country needs right now during this economic crisis. Obama/Biden '08/'12

First thoughts: The last dance

Ken Sills, Rochester, NY14613 — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 14:24:22 GMT

Does the McCain camp really want the public focused on Joe the Plumber? The video of Obama talking to Joe could be an Obama commercial. Calmly, clearly explaining his position while showing great respect for a man who disagrees. And it appears Joe's not even registered to vote - the Sec of State's website shows no one registered with his last name. And this crack from Joe to Katie Couric? "I asked the question but I still got a tap dance. Do you - almost as good as Sammy Davis Jr." Joe the Plumber shows why Obama will be our next President.

First thoughts: The last dance

C A, Tuscaloosa, AL — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 14:24:22 GMT

MCcain blew his chance to argue "experience" against Obama when he selected Sarah Palin as his VP running mate who would be a heartbeat away from the Presdiency. The experience arguement will not fly.

First Read:

Your First Thoughts should begin analyzing and predicting just how big a win Obama will enjoy on Nov. 4 rather than all the garbage above. You continue to imply to a degree that McCain still has a chance in this election. The door is closed.

First thoughts: The last dance

Edina Brekalovic, Queens, NY — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 14:24:32 GMT

Important Question
Is Joe the Plumber the guy previously introduced by Mrs. Palin as Joe Six Pack??? Is Joe hired by McCain campaign?

First thoughts: The last dance

Chris Winter, NY — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 14:24:42 GMT

After last night's debate, I am more convinced that McCain will protect us more than Obama will from terrorists. How can Obama protect us from terrorists when he associates with them?

First thoughts: The last dance

Pete King, Sergeant Bluff, Iowa — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 14:25:36 GMT

Dewey wins!

First thoughts: The last dance

Laurie, Georgia — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 14:28:55 GMT

Many of your readers/viewers tend to think McCain comes across as "angry". When you truly care for a cause, a person tends to show emotion - let's not mistake this for hostility. McCain is frustrated, just as many of us are, because the real facts of this entire campaign are hard to determine for the average American - especially with most of the media siding with the Democrats. Obama, on the other hand, comes across as cold and shallow with lots of smooth talk. (Similar to a Stepford wife?) I get NO "feelings" from Obama - and it seems that he just sits back like a programmed robot. As far as thinking McCain didn't "discredit" Obama in the debate last night, I feel that the American people realize Obama has no experience and is still too wet behind the ears to lead our country. McCain's service is proven and he didn't need to waste his time discrediting Obama. We all see that Palin actually has more experience than Obama, so I wonder how people can question her experience when she isn't the one running for President!!!

First thoughts: The last dance

McShame, Houston TX — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 14:29:03 GMT

This was all a set-up talking about some dam Joe the Plumber!!!!! This will backfire on McShame!!! hehe

http://www.dailykos.com/story/2008/10/16/02217/845

http://www.drudge.com/news/113720/joe-plumber-isnt-registered-vote

First thoughts: The last dance

Parag, Mnpls, MN — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 14:29:39 GMT

wow.. when you check closing statements closely then you will realize McBush talks all about himself, his records.. I had done this & that, so pls pls pls trust me :)
He almost never acknowledges the present crashed economy & put more weight on solving current issues !

First thoughts: The last dance

Claudia B Venice Florida — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 14:29:55 GMT

I thought Mc Cain looked like a spoiled brat last night. I too agree that it was better in the first two debates that he looked down or elsewhere instead of looking at Obama. I felt he constantly interupted and said things like a small child not getting his way. I am taking care of my elderly parents and McCain acts just like my Dad. My Dad is a WWII vet and he said "I don't like McCain so I am not voting." It is very hard for me to get through to him that he needs to exercise his rights or he doesn't have room to complain about the way things are. He is worried that he is going to lose his pension from Chrysler and his SS. He also recieves a check from the Government as a wounded vet recieving the purple heart as well as many other awards. I love this country and I have worked for 42 years earning a living. It makes me sick to see our 401K disapppear at lighting speed, because it has taken years of hard work to make it. John McCain gave me no hope last night.
A registered Republican in Florida.

First thoughts: The last dance

Gypsy prince — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 14:31:16 GMT

The Maverick appeared angry last night and very disturbed. It's really sad to see Senator McCain cowtow to his advisors and parrot the personal attacks that radio talk show personalities like Limbaugh and Hannity spew nonstop to distract voters. I think when the senator stays on the subject, he displayed a caring individual whom I believed might try to improve our situation. Yes, he did have Senator Obama on the defensive, but that was his only option, but he seemed overly angry and looked his age last night. I never bought into his choice of running mate, because she was an obvious gimmick that really backfired in my opinion. The Katie Courick interview was horrific! I wish both Senator McCain and the Hockey-Mom well on their trip back home.

First thoughts: The last dance

Paul , NC — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 14:31:53 GMT

Are you on the BHO campaign staff? You are going to succeed on electing this man and if there is anything left in 4 years it will be the end of the main stream media and liberalism. Of course BHO is not a liberal, he is a closet muslim socialist.

First thoughts: The last dance

Martin, San Antonio — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 14:32:59 GMT

Joe the plumber should meet Joe the accountant. It is clear there is little business experience in the media or in political circles. A business will be taxed on profits and not revenues. So if Joe's business is making maybe 1,000,000 then it might be lucky enough to make $250K in profit. Only then would he be taxed at a higher level under Obama. My guess is he is making $250K revenue and maybe $100K take home, assuming he has a payroll and bills so he probably will see no change in taxes under the Obama plan. I hope someone in the media brings this up and asks Joe the plumber about this. He probably won't be affected and his employees will get a tax cut and he will get a tax benefit for hiring new employees.

First thoughts: The last dance

Craig W, Everett, WA — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 14:33:13 GMT

It would be advisable to not mock the "health" of a woman. I think he lost a lot of votes, with that remark during the debate.

First thoughts: The last dance

Stan Kingsland Georgia — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 14:35:02 GMT

McCain gives off negative energy. He is a very angry man who is really erratic.

Do we need someone like this leading our country? How many wars will a man like this lead into?

He also has no focus. He skips around from issue to issue and changes his positions far too much.

Obama Biden 08 for me

First thoughts: The last dance

Tim, St. Louis, MO — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 14:35:57 GMT

It is now done. Obama will be the next president and should start assembling a world-class cabinet to begin to work on the myriad of messes he is inheriting. I believe he could make a case to the American people that his time would be better spent working on these problems than campaigning. The advertising millions could be better spent also. I know this would be perceived as being "cocky" but so be it.

First thoughts: The last dance

JEAN BRYANT DALLAS, TEXAS — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 14:36:46 GMT

MCCAIN IS NOT A SALES PERSON
OBAHAMA IS GOOD AT GIVING THEM WHAT THEY WANT TO HEAR.
GREAT SPEAKERS ARE NOT NECESSARLY GREAT LEADERS.
GOV PALIN IS A GREAT REASON TO GET OUT-OF-BED ON ELECTION DAY....

First thoughts: The last dance

Your name, city and state — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 14:37:05 GMT

Obama '08!!!

First thoughts: The last dance

Caribbean Observer Trinidad and Tobago — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 14:37:30 GMT

Sen. Obama you were great at the debate you connected with the people, you are so humble, I admire you for that and that humility is what is going to take you to being the next President. Continue to go with God, continue to connect with Him as you need His direction, continue to canvas with the people and continue to focus on the issues. Go with God He is with you all the time.

First thoughts: The last dance

Edith Hull, Salisbury, MD — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 14:37:34 GMT

McCain's time has passed. When he first tried to run for President in 2000. I was willing to give him a serious look. But now he comes off as a grumpy old man who has not kept up with the changes in this country. I am tired of hearing him tout his experience or his family name or veterans status. Voting with Bush as much as he has is not the sign of a Maverick. His choice of running mate does not inspire confidence. He is not the man to get us out of this current mess!

First thoughts: The last dance

Robert, Medina, Ohio — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 14:38:30 GMT

McCain just looked so desperate last night. His over the top angry reactions to just about everything Obama said last night gives great insight into what kind of temperment he would have as a world leader. Do or say the wrong thing and McCain just may lose it. Sounds like the clown we have in office right now.

First thoughts: The last dance

TERESA MOORE — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 14:38:50 GMT

SARAH PALIN IS THE BEST THING EVER HAPPENED TO AMERICA. I LOVE HER, AND WILL VOTE REPUBLICAN FOR THE FIRST TIME IN MY LIFE.

First thoughts: The last dance

E Klein, Plano TX — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 14:38:59 GMT

McCain's demeanor last night was more of the same - grouchy. Can you imagine this man talking to leaders of the rest of the world?

You know, I am certain that McCain had more "talking" time last night and at first it upset me that Bob didn't even it out for Obama. But then, my husband commented on how the more McCain talked, the deeper he dug himself in a hole.

Last point - the final debate re-inforced people's views on the candidates:

Obama = President
McCain = Angry

First thoughts: The last dance

CL King — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 14:39:50 GMT

"What does it say about our presidential election system that we spent 15 months on the primaries and approximately 75 days for the general...we're cramming six months of a general election into six weeks? Crazy ..." Not crazy at all. It means that we spend 16 months looking at our final pick alongside not just one but ALL of their peers. This is better than having two antagonists selected by their respective parties in some back-room out of the view of the public, don't you agree?

First thoughts: The last dance

Catherine, Smyrna/DE — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 14:39:50 GMT

I've made it a point to watch each of the three debates and I must say last night definitely stood out for several reasons. Since the 2004 Democratic Convention, I was gripped by a speech that moved me to tears and kept me stock still and holding my breath. I've kept track of the Senator for Illinois; listened to his "eloquent" way of speaking (McCain you have shocked me that this word was in your vocabulary although your repetition of it says it was rehearsed.), shared the hopes that he has brought into our political world, and celebrated his triumphs over many bridges to this point. I have also seen the war hero that I so respected for so long diminish his character, let down his supporters and lie to the American public as though we were slobbering neanderthals chewing every word that came from him and his accomplice witch from Alaska. I am so disappointed not only to see this great man's downfall, but that the "aggression" and obnoxious interrupting behavior Senator McCain portrayed last night was rewarded directly afterward and this morning by the Republican party and media. In my eyes he behaved like a petulant child, if he'd have been standing we would have heard him stamping his feet behind his podium. I sincerely hope we are seeing through this facade of whisper voiced addresses and "my friend" mentality they seem to think is effective. The recent polls have shown where our allegiances are starting to lie, please help to keep it this way. VOTE on the 4th, VOTE with your head and heart and help us reclaim the dignity, respect and acknowledgement for good that our country stands for but has been too long forgotten.

First thoughts: The last dance

Al, Kalamazoo, Michigan — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 14:39:53 GMT

Sounds like it's all over and the election is but a formality. How much money will be wasted over the next 19 days waiting for the election to be held? In light of the economy, shouldn't Obama Biden be given the nod and call this waste of money, and natural resources off? Why vote?

First thoughts: The last dance

DELIA BROWN FORTWORTH, TEXAS — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 14:41:17 GMT

THERE IS 37-FORMER DEMOCRATS IN MY FAMILY.
WE WILL ALL BE VOTING PALIN/MCCAIN THIS FALL.
WE HAVE HAD ENOUGH DISHONESTY IN THE WHITE HOUSE.
WE NEED MCCAIN AND SARAH PALIN TO SHAKE-IT-UP

First thoughts: The last dance

Cathy, Virginia — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 14:41:18 GMT

I don't think McCain can win in the media view no matter what he does. If he exposes any truths about Obama, he is viewed as negative. If he sticks to the issues, the media thinks he is weak and not insightful. Two home runs were a) McCain's reminder to Obama that he is NOT running against George Bush and b) he pointed out Obama's "eloquence". It's unfortunate that voters are being swayed by "how he is saying it" versus what Obama is actually saying. Obama is clearly the better politician and has done a stellar job of letting us know ONLY what he wants us to know. But in no way is he the better candidate for President.

First thoughts: The last dance

Sheila Robinson, Baltimore, MD — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 14:41:26 GMT

It does not matter who won the debate season. What matters most is who wins on 11/4.

John McCain lost his right to be taken seriously by selecting Sarah Palin as his running mate. The thought of this woman as the "accidental President" scares me silly!

Barack Obama may not be the ideal candidate because he does lack the experience of John McCain, but Obama is light years better than the current occupant, "W".
George W. Bush is a simian with a legacy degree from Yale and a bought and paid for MBA from Harvard.

Last night McCain sounded like he needed his meds because he repeatedly(21 times)referred to "Joe the Plumber." What was that about? If that man expects to make $250K gross as a plumber in Toledo, OH then he is charging too much for his services and deserves to pay higher taxes because he is gouging his customers!

Most of the middle class people in my circle don't make $250K a year but if we did we certainly would not gripe about paying a little more in taxes for betterment of our country. Only in America could Joe's story be possible and he's mad at Obama that he might have to pay a little more in taxes so that those of us who make less than $50K can keep a little more in our pocket. Breathtaking!

Come on people. This is our time to take back our country and show the rest of the world how a first world country can get it done!

Obama/Biden '08

First thoughts: The last dance

Chris Modica, Chevy Chase,MD — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 14:41:34 GMT

Is their any other media source out there that can provide a non biased commentary on the election? Besides Fox news I have found none, if McCain wins it will be because the media lost the election for Obama. I am so sick of the biased spin from all of the major news outlets I am going to vote Republican.