First thoughts: Obama widens lead

Joe - STL — Wed, 22 Oct 2008 13:21:13 GMT

Even with McCain's appeals to his base, the Democratic gains in voter registration and early voting may still produce a landslide anyway.

First thoughts: Obama widens lead

pat huntington ny — Wed, 22 Oct 2008 13:22:20 GMT

Obama needs to put out more ads saying, and demonstrating, how McCain's tax attacks are lies...that small business owners will NOT get tax increased like McCain says...fact checkers demonstrate that they will, by and large, not get a tax increase under Obama, but instead, will be eligible for tax cuts!

First thoughts: Obama widens lead

The Other Ed — Wed, 22 Oct 2008 13:23:27 GMT

Well c'mon of course it's a big story, $75,000 at Nieman-Marcus does sorta blow to hell that Hockey Mom, Joe Six-Pack image.

And if you read the Politico story, you'd see that these clothing expenses are not standard campaign expenditures for any candidate.

First thoughts: Obama widens lead

the Pajama Pundit — Wed, 22 Oct 2008 13:24:22 GMT

Obama has a 14-point lead over McCain here (48%-34%).
*******************************************************

And this is on TAXES. Wow.

http://thepajamapundit.com/

First thoughts: Obama widens lead

Pat, Boston, MA — Wed, 22 Oct 2008 13:25:25 GMT

Right wing principles vs. USA principles.

The National Review magazine, in a 1993 cover story, called Rush Limbaugh "The Leader of Conservative Principles " in the 1990's.

Conservative Principles? Limbaugh has no principles. Shame on anyone in this country who truly believes in Limbaugh, Sean Hannity or Karl Rove's message. They are manipulators only.

Despite conventional wisdom, one doesn't need a college education to read, to learn, to teach. What it does take is a curiosity about people and events and then a responsibility to not only get it right as we grow older, but an obligation to pass on to our children and grandchildren all the wisdom and good sound advice we can offer them.

One of Senator Obama's most compelling messages I believe has been when he talks about each and every one of us, as Americans, needing to live up to our own responsibilities. As citizens, but most importantly, as a family. No longer should you assume that what you're hearing on talk radio is the truth. No longer should it be acceptable to put the "blame" on your fellow citizens if you yourself are not doing your part. No longer should it be acceptable to be a victim to lies.

I would like to believe that an Obama Administration will put at the top of their priorities an exemplary Department of Education. We have the teachers & it is they who are crying out for help so that they can do their jobs properly. No one has been listening to them for years. But I believe a Democratic Administration will listen to their pleas. But we also need family members to do their part.

Getting an education is essential to the well being of every single child. We know the dangers when they don't receive one or when no one cares if they receive one.

As Jackie Kennedy once said: If you bungle raising your children, I don't think whatever else you do matters very much.

We're facing a real challenge. Karl Rove, Rush Limbaugh & the GOP have fed off of an uninformed electorate for way too many years. And when they succeed in their message, we all eventually become victims. Let's not ever put them in that position again. We must begin a new path for the next generation.

Let's make sure both parents & kids watch the news, listen to talk radio and then talk to each other & their teachers about what they've heard. Inspire children to read our history, our complete history, the good AND the bad, so that they can be aware of just how devastating hate is. Teach them to understand that most people hate what they don't understand.

And if your child is fortunate enough to receive a college education, this doesn't make them an elitist. It makes them an informed thoughtful citizen. Something we should all aspire to be. And if they don't receive a college education, this in itself should not give them a free pass to being uninformed. Same goes with all of us.

Senator Obama has said over and over: it is not a blue America, it is not a red America, it is the United States of America. An America we want to be proud of. And we all as individuals have a role in this. And as Americans, it's a role we should cherish.

2 weeks & counting. And if the uninformed among us don't want to vote for a Democrat, fine. Just please don't complain and blame "others" when it doesn't work out for you. Which in all certainty it will not. Remember to blame yourselves for not bothering to pay attention. Because there just aren't any excuses anymore for ignorance.

And when we all understand our own history, it will be easy to recognize the lies that continue to come out of the GOP. We have to move forward, not back.

First thoughts: Obama widens lead

Laura, Boston, MA — Wed, 22 Oct 2008 13:26:06 GMT

FR...I watched Morning Joe where Sarah Palin's wardrobe was topic #1. I was totally taken aback by all the hoopla over this.

I seem to recall the media focusing on Hillary's pantsuits during the primary. However the question remains..how much does Obama spend on his suits? I don't think he goes into Macy's and buys off the rack do you?

This country has a lot more to focus on than Sarah Palin's wardrobe.

Grow up
Laura, Boston

First thoughts: Obama widens lead

LoOK — Wed, 22 Oct 2008 13:27:00 GMT

It amazes me how far we have come. When this all started Obama had no chance, now it's his to lose. It is exciting to watch the democratic process take place, and is even more exciting to see the genuine interest and excitement from so many Americans. However, in times such as these I am not surprised. There is simply too much at stake for us to stand idly by and do nothing.

Check out the latest post:
http://lastofourkind.blogspot.com

First thoughts: Obama widens lead

Ms Jenny — Wed, 22 Oct 2008 13:27:29 GMT

*** McCain Meets The Press: McCain will have an opportunity to answer questions about these poll numbers -- and tons of other issues -- WHEN HE AND PALIN sit down for an interview with Brian Williams, which will air tonight on NBC’s Nightly News.
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^

See, THIS is exactly why Palin's poll numbers have dropped - the McCain campaign KNOWS that she is unqualified. That's why she is the only VP candidate in modern history who's needed to be chaperoned for so many interviews. How pathetic that he has to constantly be there to hold her hand and make sure she doesn't say something stupid.

Hillary Clinton was COMPETENT enough to be able to give interviews and talk to the press without Bill holding her hand. Palin is a joke and an insult to women everywhere.

First thoughts: Obama widens lead

Mia in Miami — Wed, 22 Oct 2008 13:28:42 GMT

Are the people gonna hear more about the GOP stealing the election like we heard about ACORN? This is serious and the people need to make the MSM like (CNN and MSNBC) be more responsible and inform the public about these types of issues instead of nonsense.

There is a repeat of the 2000 and 2004 voter suppression and purging of registrations going on in this election. If the MSM don't report and put and end to the madness Obama is going to lose.

Have your say people and make the MSM report about it. Kieth and Rachel has already started the crusade, so make the MSM do their job.

First thoughts: Obama widens lead

Clara Kansas City, MO — Wed, 22 Oct 2008 13:29:33 GMT

Pat, Boston

I was disappointed that you gave up on Missouri yesterday. We are doing everything we can and we still have hope! Keep it alive! (sorry about the Sox - if it's any consolation - I wasn't 'working' as hard to see them win as I am for Obama!)

It may be a few years; but I cannot wait to read the books that will be written about Obama's Campaign. It has truly been an amazingly disciplined, targeted effort. Something you'd expect from a smart person who surrounds himself by other smart people.

Gary S. MT - in case they didn't post my shout out yesterday - Kudos, your posts are hysterical and dead on!

First thoughts: Obama widens lead

squintz, philly, pa — Wed, 22 Oct 2008 13:30:38 GMT

PANTSUITS??? Please. I've seen that woman's knees more than my own in the past few weeks, and I'm twenty years younger than her. I wouldn't wear three inch heels and a knee-length skirt to a freaking job interview, and this woman wears such a get up to the UN! Stupid Palin, making me miss Hillary. Not that I even liked Hillary! Craziness. Also, Go Phils!

First thoughts: Obama widens lead

Steve, San Diego — Wed, 22 Oct 2008 13:31:05 GMT

Two weeks to go, and the anticipation is thick. We absolutely cannot take our eyes off the prize. GOTV everyone. What could be more obvious than to vote?

I live in San Diego, and depending on a few states and fast reporting of results, Obama might be declared the winner before polls close out here in California, Nevada, Oregon and Washington. That’s fine by me.

I heard the only difference between neo-Con terrorists and Al-Qaida is hosting a daily radio or TV talk show. If Obama wins, we must remember not to gloat. The only way to lessen the influence of Rush, Sean and Fox News is to not pay attention to them. No listeners or viewers, no advertising dollars, no shows. The vote for Obama may equate to the effect of Joe Walsh asking Sen. McCarthy “have you no shame?” Hopefully all of the reactionary wingnuts of the GOP will soon stop the anti-American rants against DEMs and liberals if Obama wins. Like Walsh’s simple statement turned the tide against McCarthyism, maybe Obama’s victory will turn the tide against reactionary neo-Cons!

First thoughts: Obama widens lead

Midwest Mom — Wed, 22 Oct 2008 13:31:09 GMT

It is no surprise to me that McCain is trailing among independent voters. His campaign's divisive rhetoric, straight out of the Republican playbook, has undercut any credit we may have given him.

I have voted Republican in the past, but I am ready for the federal government to serve all people equally. Enough of the slice & dice. McCain has lost my demographic -- Moms with children.
******************

What Kind of American are YOU?
http://ilfamilypolitics.blogspot.com

First thoughts: Obama widens lead

Suz, Western NY — Wed, 22 Oct 2008 13:31:57 GMT

Obama is up in the polls yet we as Americans have to remember not to get complacent as Obama himself has said remember NH. Also remember Dewey-Truman a election that was suposed to be a landslide for Dewey.

I live in western NY and will wait in the cold and rain or whatever to cast my vote, as we do not have early voting in NY and it we have already had a taste of winter here so be prepared.

People of America, yes the polls are great but don't forget to VOTE VOTE VOTE.

Polls don't count if you dont vote!!!!!

Suz, Western NY for Obama/Biden

First thoughts: Obama widens lead

Eric, Salinas, CA — Wed, 22 Oct 2008 13:32:25 GMT

I am so grateful that the grumpy old skirt chaser picked "Sinner" Sarah, the most unprepared VP candidate to ever run. She's a clueless liar who spends too much time spewing forth hate and lies. I'm so glad to see the moderate republicans and indie's flee the McNasty campaign. Hey too bad the RNC wasted %150,000 on her clothing, no amount of fancy clothes and lipstick wiull dress up the piggy from Alaska.

I've been able to turn one of my clients from a lifelong support of the repugnant ones and Ronny Raygunz's Voo Doo Tinkle Down economics that have left him all wet from the wrong kind of Golden Shower to supporting Barack Obama and the Democrats. Yeah baby one more vote for Obama as honest republicans flee the hateful party of the rich, for the rich and only the rich.

Go Obama/Biden 08/12!

First thoughts: Obama widens lead

Republican in Chicago — Wed, 22 Oct 2008 13:32:37 GMT

These Polls are a joke... first, my parents live in Florida and when they get called by a pollster they always tell the person on the phone the oppositie of who they're actually voting for. They figures it's none of their business.

Secondly, I live on the southside of Chicago and a lot of my friends who are democrats aren't voting at all cause they think both candidates suck. Which helps McCain.

Personally, I think they both suck also, but I believe McCain is the lesser of 2 evils, so he has my vote on Nov 4th.

Basically what i'm getting at is these polls mean jack 'you know what'

First thoughts: Obama widens lead

Suz, Western NY — Wed, 22 Oct 2008 13:32:48 GMT

First thoughts: Obama widens lead

Ms Jenny — Wed, 22 Oct 2008 13:34:26 GMT

ON SOCIALISM:

We have ALWAYS had a progressive tax structure - the more you make, the more you pay. ALWAYS. That's taking money away from some to give to others, isn't it? Well, yeah - but it's also the American way!!! It has ALWAYS been that way. And will someone PLEASE look at McCain's tax plan - his tax breaks are NOT equal across the board! He give MORE of a break to people with the most money; the exact opposite of Obama's plan. Accordingly to McCain's "spread the wealth" logic, McCain is taking money from POOR people, and giving it to people who already have money!!! Which is worst?

REALITY: BOTH candidates' tax plans "take money from one group and give it to another". That is a FACT. The important question is - what do we value the most as a society: hard work, or wealth?

You can answer that question for yourselves on Nov 4th.

First thoughts: Obama widens lead

Michelle Zee — Wed, 22 Oct 2008 13:35:46 GMT

The way I see the tax issue is I make under $250,000, so people who have to have their taxes raised at a time when the middle class and poor citizens are suffering; let's just say I DON'T FEEL SORRY FOR YOU!

I care more that people have jobs, health care, and education. The rich misses nothing, even their children work less than the kid in the inner cities and even those rural area folks who are scraping to get by...so for all McCain's talk of taxes and raising them on the other 5% of America; I DON'T CARE!

First thoughts: Obama widens lead

John, MI — Wed, 22 Oct 2008 13:36:01 GMT

I've finally realized that MSNBC is ran and supported fully by Obama campaign members. His campaign runs smoothly cause he has hundreds of millions of dollars from foreign dictators to spend on it. I want to see him run a campaign on a limited budget which it what he will have when he becomes president.

Wake up people....

First thoughts: Obama widens lead

Ron Indiana — Wed, 22 Oct 2008 13:37:04 GMT

McCain's indie problem has everything to do with his negative accusations. Independents don't like it and are quickly moving to Obama. When integrity is lost, McCain has nothing. So whatever he says will not gain traction. The progressive income tax, from its inception in 1913 taxes the rich more than the poor. That will not fly. When the government manages and financially controls an industry, that's socialism. Under the Bush, conservative administration, the government will control the banking industry. Obama and McCain both voted for that bill. No traction there.

Chris Matthews did a fine job last night when confronting Pat Buchanan. Pat attacked Colin Powell's motives. Then demeaned another black man, John Lewis, by saying John Lewis made gutter statements. Buchanan forgot that John Lewis is one of the most respected men in Congress who measures his words well. When will MSNBC stop allowing their network to be a forum for Pat to spew his racism? Good job Chris!

First thoughts: Obama widens lead

katiec Pekin, IL — Wed, 22 Oct 2008 13:39:37 GMT

Mccain has used poor judgement, made bad decisons
since the beginning of his campaign.
When he decided to run the sleaziest campaign in
the history of our country, he threw away his
honor and integrity.
The American voters do not want and cannot have
a man like that leading our country,

First thoughts: Obama widens lead

no joe, no bo, nj — Wed, 22 Oct 2008 13:40:02 GMT

It seems that one of the people who have trouble trusting Obama as Commander in Chief is is RUNNING MATE- who has been yanked off the campaign trail as punishment for his truthful remarks about 'the one'.

ANd, by the way, the market is tanking on news of these new poll numbers-so go figure.

Use your brain-vote McCain.

First thoughts: Obama widens lead

Charlie, Milwaukee, WI — Wed, 22 Oct 2008 13:41:21 GMT

I am pretty sure "Joe Six Pack" has never seen the inside of a Saks 5th Avenue or Nieman Marcus store. "Joe The Right Wing Plumber" probably hasn't either.

There are two reasons this should be in the news. The first is that she has made a campaign argument that she is just like "Joe Six Pack". This demonstrates the insincerity of that argument.

The second is the possibility of financial impropriety on the part of a sitting government official.

First thoughts: Obama widens lead

The Fat Lady — Wed, 22 Oct 2008 13:43:42 GMT

Please don't miss my big performance, when I sing for John McCain the night of November 4th.

First thoughts: Obama widens lead

Eric, Salinas, CA — Wed, 22 Oct 2008 13:44:50 GMT

That's so funny that voters are waking up to the fact that McNasty's tax cuts for the rich and greedy are the problem and not the solution. It's about time to totally repudiate Ronny Raygunz's Voo Doo Tinkle Down economics. It's time for some honest Robin Hood government of taking from the rich and giving to the poor.

Wealth redistribution downwards is what we need after 28 years of it going upwards. We don't need 1% of the people owning 40% of the wealth!

Go Obama/Biden 08/12!

First thoughts: Obama widens lead

Paul Miller, Woodbridge, VA — Wed, 22 Oct 2008 13:48:02 GMT

FR: "Obama has a 30-point lead over McCain on which candidate better offers hope and optimism (53%-23%); a 20-point edge on temperament (50%-30%)..."

You throw that out there like its an afterthought, but in my view, that's the election.

From the days of Reagan on, it should have become a political truism that optimism is though to beat.

And on temperament, this race was always a question of whether Obama could look presidential in time, before McCain ran the clock out and avoided looking un-presidential before it was over. Obama seems to have passed his threshold while McCain failed to avoid his pitfall.

First thoughts: Obama widens lead

Cindy Lou, TX — Wed, 22 Oct 2008 13:48:17 GMT

McCain destroyed his own campaign. He ran a campaign based on Nixon's 1968 playbook rather than a campaign based in the 21st Century. McCain's impulsiveness in picking Palin to woo Hillary's supporters backfired (and was an insult to anyone who supported her). His erratic performance at the height of the fiscal crisis doomed him. And his selection of Steve Schmidt only reinforced McCain's mercurial temper.

Meanwhile, Obama stayed on message and built a campaign that is solid in leadership, teamwork, groundwork and financial skill. Voters now see through the veil of McCain's attacks on Obama and are no longer buying the Republican's charges against him.

I notice McCain and Palin are doing more MSM interviews in these last few weeks. I think it's too late. Early registration has already started, and it seems many voters have already made up their minds. I, for one, will not be watching MTP or Brian Williams because I've had enough of the hate and fearmongering spewed by the McCain/Palin ticket.

First thoughts: Obama widens lead

gepa — Wed, 22 Oct 2008 13:49:10 GMT

if pennsylvania is mccains last hope--he has already lost.

First thoughts: Obama widens lead

BJ, CA — Wed, 22 Oct 2008 13:49:11 GMT

Palin...yes master?
We have them right where we want them...

HA hahhahahahahahahahaHA...
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mh4HGksJBlA

We need to vote Obama/Biden even more now

First thoughts: Obama widens lead

Robert, Anaheim, CA — Wed, 22 Oct 2008 13:49:20 GMT

I think, and I'd like to be corrected if I'm wrong, that Pennsylvania has No form of early voting. Therefore, McCain can try to negate his enthusiasm gap.

First thoughts: Obama widens lead

BJ, CA — Wed, 22 Oct 2008 13:50:59 GMT

Those glasses and hairdo has got to cost a few bucks too...

First thoughts: Obama widens lead

First election as US Citizen, NH — Wed, 22 Oct 2008 13:53:54 GMT

The polls are all well and good but speaking from experience living in NH, Obama is right to err on the side of caution. I have no idea what I am going to do after this is all over, being my first election as a US Citizen, I have been a political junkie!!

Go Obama/Biden '08!!

First thoughts: Obama widens lead

Di/Allentown, PA — Wed, 22 Oct 2008 13:54:26 GMT

I'm sitting here listening to McCain in NH right now. He's said alot about Obama, and what he's going to do, and what he's not going to do. The key is - he has yet, after 25 minutes said what he's going to do.

Guess that's what happens when you have no plan other than the Bush plan. Keep talking about your opponent.

Get a clue: This is not working for you John.....

First thoughts: Obama widens lead

iowan — Wed, 22 Oct 2008 13:54:43 GMT

1. Caribou Barbie indeed! Complete with matching handbag! Okay, it's a distraction at best----but so in keeping with the fumbling and bumbling of the stale negative McCain-Bush campaigning style---very 90s.

2. The powerful thing here is that Obama truly defined McCain---McCain's final bleated, "But I'm not George Bush" is the ultimate admission of the same---damned fine politics in terms of defining the question. (This said, whoever asked all of the Repub candidates in the debate in January if they loved Bush--to which they all responded in unison---really nailed it down; but, Obama finished the job.)

First thoughts: Obama widens lead

Cindi in Louisiana — Wed, 22 Oct 2008 13:55:38 GMT

Like many Dems, I am so sick of Joe the Plumber. Could Obama please introduce Charlie the CEO and make it clear to low info voters that McCain is looking out for Charlie, not Joe!!

First thoughts: Obama widens lead

Paul Miller, Woodbridge, VA — Wed, 22 Oct 2008 13:57:15 GMT

Regarding the comparison of McCain's campaign to Clinton's, its something I've noticed for a while. Their efforts against Obama have run a very similar path.

Both started out as the experience candidate, trying to highlight Obama's innexperience - and mocking the notion of change.

Both Clinton and McCain recognized it wasn't working and tried to morph themselves into a change campaign that could compete with Obama's message.

Near the frantic end, both fell back on experience, desperately looking for something that might work even if trying something that already hasn't.

They both used the same peripheral attacks. In some cases, McCain directly references the Clinton campaign's attacks.

They both had structural upheavals and were surrounded by rumors of infighting.

And both gained a reputation on the trail for having a new message every week.

Both were out-organized on the ground by Obama's team.

Both seemingly were out-strategized by Obama's team - and as the blog article noted, its not even that Obama hit a brilliant strategy so much as in both cases he seemed to be up against a team that never gave any thought to strategy - other than communications strategy, as you noted.

First thoughts: Obama widens lead

Cindi in Louisiana — Wed, 22 Oct 2008 13:57:52 GMT

Intersting that Palin's poll numbers take a nosedive on the same day that these Travelgate questions are raised. Are the GOP going to find reasons to get her off the ticket and add, say Huckabee or Romney?? Now THAT would be an October Surprise."

First thoughts: Obama widens lead

Rock, Janesville, Wisconsin — Wed, 22 Oct 2008 13:58:23 GMT

This is again great news for Obama, and I hope my fellow Americans are voting early in every state. Remember what Obama said. "Remember New Hampshire!" This election has a long way to go yet. Go Obama!

First thoughts: Obama widens lead

Axel, Philadelphia, PA — Wed, 22 Oct 2008 13:58:27 GMT

Obama's tax plan is even better than most of the public realize, it really only materially increases taxes for those making upward of $600,000 a year in income. At $250,000 in income you have a small increase of something like $700 a year. No game changer.

Fact is, Obama's plan is the right plan. The rich wanted these three wars, they want star wars weapons, they love Halliburton, Exxon and Lockheed Martin. Well then, THEY CAN DAMN WELL PAY FOR IT.

First thoughts: Obama widens lead

Full Moon — Wed, 22 Oct 2008 13:58:33 GMT

Moderators - Could we stop the blogger fraud on this line?

First thoughts: Obama widens lead

Coverage — Wed, 22 Oct 2008 13:58:53 GMT

Stories about Palin's clothes. Interrogation of the plumber who dared to ask Obama a "difficult" question. Articles about McCain's tax philosophy from 15 years ago and how it differs from today. On the other hand, NO major stories about Biden announcing to the world we're going to have an International crisis in 6 months and preparing citizens to whom it will appear that Obama isn't handling it right (translate: becuase he doesn't know what he's doing). No major stories on FL Dem adulterer Tim Mahoney and the Dem leadership cover-up of the scandal by Emmanuel and Pelosi. No sincere or thorough investigation of Obama's ties to radicals and his truthfulness about them, his telling his followers to "get in the face" of those who disagree with him as the said at some stops, of his broken promises on public finance or town hall debates. Boy, it's difficult to see why Obama might be winning the perception battle. Good job, media. Your lack of integrity shines on!

First thoughts: Obama widens lead

Cindi in Louisiana — Wed, 22 Oct 2008 14:00:06 GMT

Obama and Biden need to hit hard in Pennsylvania in closing days. I understand that there are a lot of older, blue collare voters and that is why McCain thonks he has a shot here.

First thoughts: Obama widens lead

Cindi in Louisiana — Wed, 22 Oct 2008 14:01:52 GMT

Sarah, Sarah, it is really looking as if you are not only intellectually challenged, but corrupt as well. Not a good combination platter. My only question is this" How in the world can 40% of the voters thonk that she is qualified?? Now THAT is scary!

First thoughts: Obama widens lead

phillip ferndale michigan — Wed, 22 Oct 2008 14:02:53 GMT

i am so sick of that john mccain an that. i would like for all to know john is a republican. an he is part of all the shit this u,s has gone thu for not 8 years but 16years it is time for a democratic to be in office a also to countrol the house please make sure you vote for obama he is true an not a lire like john mccain an his no good vp sara palin don,t be fooled bye them thay will do the same thing bush is doing to us vote for a obama...

First thoughts: Obama widens lead

Seattle Sue — Wed, 22 Oct 2008 14:04:33 GMT

Setting here listening to McCain spout off about how his tax cuts will save the economy. I'm also seeing the market DOWN 300+ points. Senator McCain please explain to me why the economy is so terrible with Bush's tax cuts in effect? Has this tax cut worn out and you have to replace it? I don't think so. So why don't you tell me another lie, that MAYBE I can believe.

First thoughts: Obama widens lead

matthew, Newark NJ — Wed, 22 Oct 2008 14:05:17 GMT

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2008/10/22/al-qaeda-supporters-endor_n_136779.html

Chuck Todd please do a story on this? Andrea Mitchel? Somebody? Al Qaida LOVES the GOP foreign policy because their cowboy, frontal assault, totally devoid of any common sense or empathy sends them recruits by the THOUSANDS!! We as Americans tend to think that the GOP is stronger on foreign policy and it's a 'knee-jerk' sort of reaction. This needs to be exposed and refuted for the good of the country guys please!!? Other bloggers here please repost! Get the word out! I fear Bin Laden is about to raise his ugly head and spoil things!! If you want a safer country and some RESULTS on the war on terror you have to get this out!!!! PLEASE!!!!

First thoughts: Obama widens lead

jesse St.Paul Minnesota — Wed, 22 Oct 2008 14:05:58 GMT

I think what is happening is that the people of this country are sick and tired of the us againest them party.The rich againest the poor.The real americans againest the anti-americans.The destract distort,smear,scare tactics,of the Rove repuks.The time is come to end the division,to be one country united,not split by politics.

First thoughts: Obama widens lead

NK, Al — Wed, 22 Oct 2008 14:07:34 GMT

Palin is buying clothes and Michelle Obama is buying Lobster and Caviar from room service. Nobody mentions that. Obama is spending over $600 million on his campaign and promising to "spread other people's wealth". Go Figure.

First thoughts: Obama widens lead

Lexi, Mississippi — Wed, 22 Oct 2008 14:07:50 GMT

Re: Palin's clothes. It would seem to me that being a govenor she would probably already own some really nice clothes for special events. Why not use them? And for people who are mentioning Obama's clothes......does anybody remember the interview that was done with his children where they were making fun of Daddy because he doesn't dress cool and doesn't buy new clothes and said he doesn't like to shop? Anyway, I am sure he gets a lot of mileage from the nice suits he owns.

First thoughts: Obama widens lead

Joe Don, Topeka, KS — Wed, 22 Oct 2008 14:12:35 GMT

Most people have figured out we've had enough of Republicans redistributing more wealth to their already-rich supporters. When McCain says he knows how to fix the economy, we know what he really means – and we aren't buying that scam anymore.

First thoughts: Obama widens lead

Jane, Fairfax, VA — Wed, 22 Oct 2008 14:13:05 GMT

Re: Andrea Mitchell's question whether the RNC came up with the "donate the clothes to charity" line in order to prevent a tax problem for Palin --- NEWSFLASH! The clothes constitute $150,000 of reportable income to Palin whether she donates them to charity or not. The only way they would not be income to her would be if the RNC had donated them directly to charity, without Palin ever wearing them. It's the same as if Palin had won a monetary prize and had then donated it to charity --- the only way to avoid the tax would be to have the organization who awarded the prize money make out the check to the charity in the first place. So she'll need to report $150,000 of extra income from the RNC on her 2008 tax return.

First thoughts: Obama widens lead

Full Moon — Wed, 22 Oct 2008 14:13:39 GMT

Should Obama win the election, remember that "all things must pass ... all things must pass away."
(George Harrison)

It seemed like forever but even Slick Willie eventually had to turn it over to Bush.

What I really don't like is Obama's cut & run style.
We'll soon be in bed with our enemies and socialism will run the country ... should the Obama Trauma get elected.

First thoughts: Obama widens lead

Full Moon — Wed, 22 Oct 2008 14:14:16 GMT

First thoughts: Obama widens lead

Sandra, Tennessee — Wed, 22 Oct 2008 14:14:16 GMT

Seems like the elitist sticker belongs on 7 house McCain & $150,000 clothing allowance Palin! What do these people have in common with the middle class?? I certainly do not want either one of them sitting at my kitchen table and acting like they feel my pain!
Please!

First thoughts: Obama widens lead

Gerri of PA — Wed, 22 Oct 2008 14:15:57 GMT

McCain will be with Palin when Brian Williams interviews her tonight. I guess that's to make sure she describes the VP duties correctly. Scheeze, she's sooooooooo stupid.

We already have a stupid president, we don't need another in the wings.

First thoughts: Obama widens lead

Sad in America- Anytown,USA — Wed, 22 Oct 2008 14:16:08 GMT

You know, I hope Barry wins and sticks it to all of you. With a good old one party rule we should really see some changes. If you want to see this country become a third world socialist country you will be thrilled. Everything else is down the drain, why not our dignity too. Get used to living in a government mandated living quarter, no more 3000 sq ft houses for you exurbians. I've been working poor all of my life, 1200 sq ft raised 2 kids. Its going to be great to see you guys take your lumps like the rest of us. I saw an 18 year career evaporate, my health decline from the HMO system you all think so highly of (wait until they tell you that you aren't valuable enough to need a heart transplant)and my kids can't even borrow enough money to finish college.

I will be committing hari-kari when the honor of our country I have fought to build loses its system of honor. Nov 4 I will draw my last breath.

First thoughts: Obama widens lead

K, NE — Wed, 22 Oct 2008 14:19:11 GMT

I thought a presidencial candidate was suppose to inspire people? McCain=McCarthy and he is using his campaign to spew the hate.

Everyone get out there and vote early!

First thoughts: Obama widens lead

Why??? — Wed, 22 Oct 2008 14:21:59 GMT

Here is why:

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/3032553

First thoughts: Obama widens lead

insulted, chicago, il — Wed, 22 Oct 2008 14:23:28 GMT

I certainly hope Brian Williams interview of Sarah Palin is a real interview unlike the CNN joke. When you ask someone a question make sure they answer that question. CNN interviewer let Palin go off on Obama rather than answer the question. Was very much like the debate.

First thoughts: Obama widens lead

Suburban Mom paying attention, IL — Wed, 22 Oct 2008 14:24:17 GMT

"McCain couldn’t find a reason to be president. He could never make the "why" case --"
------------------------------------------------------
Oh, he had a reason, all right- just not one that played well. His reason- like that of so many GOP candidates before him, was:

"It's my turn, dammit!"

"Country First"? Yeah, sure. You betcha.

First thoughts: Obama widens lead

C.Beitz/Atlantic, VA. — Wed, 22 Oct 2008 14:31:44 GMT

If 90% of your campaign is negative & full of lies, and 90% of your votes have supported "W"....what do you expect? Oh yeah...less & less support because of lack of economic awareness, and choosing Palin. McCain was once a potential leader...but he lost that chance with his campaign.

First thoughts: Obama widens lead

Tom in Dallas — Wed, 22 Oct 2008 14:32:00 GMT

More BS from the MSNBC crrowd. I can hardly wait to hear all the complaining from all you paid bloggers and idiotic scum bags that want a free ride off Obummer and his fake tax break (wealth redictribution).

Time to grow up little children and face the music.

Hope = You better hope your parents 401K didn't evaporate completely or they will be living with you.
Change = That's all you will have left if you make over 250K a year, Obummer is taking it and giving it to his poor class warfare types.

Thanks but no thanks.