First thoughts: Not over 'til it's over

Amy, NY — Fri, 24 Oct 2008 13:39:59 GMT

Everyone needs to psychologically prepare themselves for an Obama victory. By that I mean we cannot boast, taunt, gloat, smear or chide the ‘other side’. Let’s move on. Let President-elect Obama have a smooth transition with President Bush.

It’s okay to breathe easier on November 5th, just stay cool.

First thoughts: Not over 'til it's over

the Pajama Pundit — Fri, 24 Oct 2008 13:40:27 GMT

Not over ‘til it’s over
*****************************

That's what I keep telling myself. I can't wait for this election to be done.....

http://thepajamapundit.com/

First thoughts: Not over 'til it's over

jaycee, Ventura, CA — Fri, 24 Oct 2008 13:43:01 GMT

Joe the Plumber lied to Barack Obama and received a thoughtful and honest answer to his dishonest question. After a well-considered discussion of the ramifications of his tax plan to Joe’s fictional business situation, Barack asked Joe to think about those who are coming behind him. He asked Joe to consider how much faster he would have been in a position to buy his hypothetical business under Obama’s tax policies.

Near the end of the conversation Barack summed up: "My attitude is that if the economy’s good for folks from the bottom up, it’s gonna be good for everybody. If you’ve got a plumbing business, you’re gonna be better off if you’ve got a whole bunch of customers who can afford to hire you, and right now everybody’s so pinched that business is bad for everybody and I think when you spread the wealth around, it’s good for everybody."

Out of this entire exchange the McPalin campaign chooses to pull “spread the wealth” out of context. From this slender thread they weave a story of a new mythic American hero; Joe the Plumber, a character to rival Paul Bunyan or Pecos Bill. In the land of tall tales, plumbers make more than a quarter million dollars and a three percent higher tax rate on all that income above the quarter mil will determine whether or not Joe will create jobs. If you don’t believe in Joe, you must be a socialist. The McPalin handlers must think we’re children. What a sorry excuse for a presidential campaign.

First thoughts: Not over 'til it's over

maxine — Fri, 24 Oct 2008 13:44:01 GMT

i notice that Sarah Palin was wearing new glasses this morning I wonder who paid for it and the cost?

First thoughts: Not over 'til it's over

CA Voter — Fri, 24 Oct 2008 13:44:24 GMT

Re: Sarah's "policy speech": No offense to the topic that she's addressing but doesn't the nation deserve something on the MELTDOWN in our economic system? Further, I thought her boss said he was going to "freeze all spending." Or is this another one of those, "Sarah says one thing, John says another, and they try to have it both ways."

First thoughts: Not over 'til it's over

Clara Kansas City, MO — Fri, 24 Oct 2008 13:45:45 GMT

“She will call for full funding of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, ‘boost funding for special-needs children from birth to age 3 ...The plan calls for adding $15 billion a year to IDEA, which would fully fund the federal commitment to the 1975 law..."

Someone I worked with asked me just the other day when she would be using the 'prop' children for political gain. And now the great political future of the Republican party has an IDEA. Oh wait, that's an established program. That hasn't been properly funded under Republicans (okay - Clinton, too); but isn't this socialism? I am dripping with sarcasm today for the empty skirt.
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“Jimmy Carter was the last president to raise taxes during a recession. We see what that got us. Ronald Reagan.” Hurbis Purpose (Sent Thursday, October 23, 2008 2:44 PM)

I don’t recall us being involved (with minimal international help) in two wars during Carter’s presidency. You TAX FREAKS are pissing me off. I am so sick of hearing how ‘economics’ used to work in the good ol’ days. We cannot borrow from other countries and continue the MULTI Trillion dollar debt. Someone has got to frickin’ pay the piper. We really can’t keep mindlessly thinking that we can keep putting this on our Chinese Express card. Our dollar is weak because we are overextended. The ONLY way to bolster our domestic revenue is to get rid of BUSH’s tax cuts. That was the first boneheaded thing the village idiot did. Once we’ve removed those tax cuts, we can actually talk about balancing current spending. Guess what? To pay down the massive debt, some of the people who just became BILLIONAIRES under George W Bush will have to start paying a little more (more billionaires created in the past 71/2 years than any other time or country). It was unpatriotic to wage the wars and not fund them. If you don’t want to pay taxes, cash out and head to Mexico. Some moron yesterday implied that he employed 175+ employees on $350K of revenue. What ever. Which brings me to my next point , all of you greedy bast@rds implying that you will leave your country rather than pay your fair share; well I guess you are too lazy and hypocritical to stick around during the ‘tough’ times like the rest of us who’ve not seen our wages increase in over a decade. Quit threatening people like Susan in Ohio with layoffs. Susan, I know this sucks to hear; but I have hope that Obama will create the right incentives in technology forward industries that will create tons of jobs, just be patient and ride this storm out. I question the legality of him making a coercive announcement like that. Certainly seems like he was trying to influence your vote; whether intentional or not.

First thoughts: Not over 'til it's over

Disgusted American — Fri, 24 Oct 2008 13:46:31 GMT

On Troopergate II: this is an utter scam. HER PEOPLE are deposing her. Come on First Read, you guys aren't that stupid. What a shock it will be next week when they come out and exonerate her. Sound like the um, "Justice Department" under Alberto Gonzalez, anyone?

First thoughts: Not over 'til it's over

Gregory Peek, Birmingham, Alabama — Fri, 24 Oct 2008 13:46:35 GMT

The deciding factor in the election?

America needs Obama. And we know it.

First thoughts: Not over 'til it's over

Trent Haverlic, Big-D Texas — Fri, 24 Oct 2008 13:47:01 GMT

I was kind of hoping the media would press Joe Biden on his comments that a world event against the US was going to occur in the first six months of an Obama Administration. Alas, the press ran away from that story too. They had to report on more important matters, like what kind of cloths Sara Palin was buying, and Obama kneeling at his grandmothers bed side. It's nice to see the medias priorities are in line with our expectations.

First thoughts: Not over 'til it's over

Clara Kansas City, MO — Fri, 24 Oct 2008 13:47:52 GMT

PS. McCain's proposal to buy up mortgages at existing values is the worst kind of socialism because it rewards the lenders who made the questionable and often 'subprime' loans in the first place. But Socialism for Corporations is just his cup of Earl Grey.

PSS. I heard his Joe the Plumber ad on POTUS this morning and boy howdy is he ever proud of the low information voter. Let me know how that works out for you, Senator.

First thoughts: Not over 'til it's over

Nashville_fan — Fri, 24 Oct 2008 13:49:07 GMT

Dear McCain supporters:

If you really put "Country First", please stop filling your kids heads with lies.

My fourth grader asked my why I was voting for a terrorist and a baby killer yesterday. As I explained the complicated politics of abortion and fear to my 2nd and 4th graders, I couldn't help but feel sad for all the kids being raised in families who feel it is their divine right to cast judgement on all who don't agree with them.

That is the message that John McCain and Sarah Palin have poisoned the electorate with.

If this is their idea of an honorable campaign, then neither of them is fit to hold public office, let alone the Presidency.

First thoughts: Not over 'til it's over

MSNBC WON'T TELL YOU OBAMA IS CRASHING! — Fri, 24 Oct 2008 13:49:37 GMT

IBD/TIPP Tracking Poll: "Day Eleven"

Most accurate pollster in 2004 election shows:
Obama 44.8%, McCain 43.7%, Not Sure 11.6%...

((About IBD/TIPP: An analysis of Final Certified Results for the 2004 election showed IBD's polling partner, TIPP, was the most accurate pollster of the campaign season.))

McCain has cut into Obama's lead for a second day and is now just 1.1 points behind. The spread was 3.7 Wednesday and 6.0 Tuesday. The Republican is making headway with middle- and working- class voters, and has surged 10 points in two days among those earning between $30,000 and $75,000. He has also gone from an 11-point deﬁcit to a 9-point lead among Catholics.

First thoughts: Not over 'til it's over

BJ, CA — Fri, 24 Oct 2008 13:49:56 GMT

Let's all raise our middle fingers to McCain's success in this election..

His anti-Bush missle will fizzle at the pad.
Talk about biting the hand that feeds you...

John will go down in history as the rubber ball republican...you bounced all over the court and with no air in your balls left things sounding pretty flat...

First thoughts: Not over 'til it's over

Ms Jenny — Fri, 24 Oct 2008 13:50:21 GMT

*** $12 million left? But the McCain camp is going to have to flip Pennsylvania -- and hold on to the other Bush states -- with limited funds.
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^

I bet they're starting to wish they hadn't spent so much on clothes now! They can't even manage their own campaign funds properly, but they want us to trust them with the nation's economy???? Thanks, but no thanks!

---------

"But she ends her week by delivering her first policy speech this morning in Pittsburgh."
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^

Another sign that this is really a Palin/McCain ticket. Seriously, why is the VP candidate giving policy speeches, shouldn't that be the job of the person at the top of the ticket?

First thoughts: Not over 'til it's over

Eric, Salinas, CA — Fri, 24 Oct 2008 13:50:35 GMT

It's Game Over! Game, Set, Match to Obama and Biden! I just am laughing so hard as the moderate Republicans run away from McNasty to Obama because of the Shrill Shrew of Alaska. So funny that McNasty thought he could buck Conventional Wisdom in the general election by running to his base base and away from the middle. Obama was smart to run to the middle even if he miffed some of us liberals a little in doing so. We understand the need to run to the middle, unlike the evangelical christian lunatic fringe.

Why did MSNBC tv waste time showing the clueless one's first policy speech? I just changed the channel to watch CNBC to watch the melting global markets. Today Obama doesn't even need to campaign as the markets will sink McNasty faster than anything else. What idiotic things will the Dumber and Dumbest ticket say today in response? Stay tuned in for their clueless rants.

Go Obama/Biden 08/12!

First thoughts: Not over 'til it's over

Maxwell C., Baltimore, MD — Fri, 24 Oct 2008 13:52:13 GMT

Colin Powell has been so wrong on everything he's done that it's difficult to tell when he's ever been right. At least George Bush gave him a chance, an Affirmtive Action program if you will. Too bad Powell has only demonstrated he's incompetent for any job that was given to him. With Colin's endorsement of Obama, his streak of being wrong continues.

First thoughts: Not over 'til it's over

Ron Indiana — Fri, 24 Oct 2008 13:53:21 GMT

It's not surprising that the Big Ten poll had Obama 10 points ahead in Indiana and the M/D poll had McCain 5 points ahead. Granted I have some bias, but my take is that it is very, very hard to get accurate poll numbers, unless you take a very large sample. Southern Indiana has small towns, rural communities, farmers who often vote Republican. Lake county (Gary) is heavy democratic. And there are all kinds of mixes in between. It will be close, very close in Indiana. The winner of the 11 EV's could have a majority of 10,000 votes. It could be that close.

Pennsylvania is a wish for the republicans. It could be close, but the Dem's will win there.

I always enjoy Charlie Cook's comments. He tends to measure his words well and if he thinks it will be a home run for Obama, I'll bank on it. Recently he wrote an article "Six reasons why the election is over." I'm not buying the republican spin, but will put my nickel on Charlie Cook's analysis. MSNBC should invite Charlie for his comments.

First thoughts: Not over 'til it's over

Number Two — Fri, 24 Oct 2008 13:53:47 GMT

All the money, all the endorsements, all of the media in his back pocket, all the world events turning his way, and the race is close.

Obama is not the one.

First thoughts: Not over 'til it's over

Eric, Salinas, CA — Fri, 24 Oct 2008 13:54:23 GMT

It's so funny that the Wicked Witch of Alaska is making like "Greedy" Bill Gates and making a worthless guarantee that the Dumber and Dumbest ticket will win Pennsylvania. "Greedy" Gates can't even guarantee Windows and she can't guarantee victory in the Keystone State!

Lie Baby Lie will be the end result of the Alaskan Power Abuser's testimony today. Let's all hope that the jury finds "Liar" Ted Stevens guilty, it would be a perfect cap to this week in politics and hopefully will sink his chances of reelection.

Go Obama/Biden 08/12!

First thoughts: Not over 'til it's over

Dan, WI — Fri, 24 Oct 2008 13:56:55 GMT

McCain's problem with moderate Republicans began the day he made Palin the VP. Look at Palin's rallies, she has more support among the far right than Cheney has ever had.

Palin represents everything moderate conservatives do not like. She has repeatedly tried to divide the country.

This election is proving that Americans want to be united. Just look at 9/11. Every single one of us would have given the shirt off our back to help someone. Millions of us volunteered and did what we could to help New York. Never again can we allow a politician to run a campaign that divides us.

First thoughts: Not over 'til it's over

Paul Miller, Woodbridge, VA — Fri, 24 Oct 2008 13:56:56 GMT

FR: "The scary thing for the McCain campaign is that they could win Pennsylvania, but if they lose Colorado, Nevada, and Virginia, they lose in the Electoral College."

Hey, I said it first, in the previous blog article comments.

FR: "[Palin] will call for full funding of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, ‘boost funding for special-needs children from birth to age 3 and allow parents to choose whether federal money for their child is used in a public, private, religious or secular school without navigating a cumbersome administrative process.’ The plan calls for adding $15 billion a year to IDEA, which would fully fund the federal commitment to the 1975 law."

And this would be exempted from the McCain spending freeze.

Let's see.

Defense spending; exempted.

Veterans spending; exempted.

Special needs children; exempted and expanded.

$300 billion federal expense for nuclear reactors; exempted.

McCain's screwy approach to health care; exempted.

Energy X-prize contest payments; exempted.

Huh. What exactly does the spending freeze actually freeze? We know McCain isn't talking about freezing non-discretionary spending. Is this like the campaign suspension that wasn't really a suspension?

First thoughts: Not over 'til it's over

C A, Tuscaloosa, AL — Fri, 24 Oct 2008 13:57:33 GMT

Now wait a minute!!

McCain and Palin call Obama a big spender, a socialist. And McCain has stated numerous times including in the debates that to improve and handle the economic crises he would propsose a spending freeze. Now we have Palin coming out with a speech that will request for 15 Billion a year to the IDEA for people and children with special disabilities.

Now I am all for helping people and children with special disabilities and funding such programs, but how can Mccain and Palin call Obama a socialist or a big spender, call for a possible spending freeze, yet come out and request 15 Billion for the IDEA. Is this not a socialist-style program? It is helping people is it not? And is this not big spending?

One more thing!

What makes Palin an expert on children with special needs. She has been a mother of a child with downs syndrome for how many months now? I know people who have been parents of children with special needs for years as well as people who have worked professionally with such children for years and years. What makes Palin the so-called spokesperson on what these children need? She has no clue and certainly has not even begun to face the issues of a parent with a child with special needs.

First thoughts: Not over 'til it's over

kathy, charlotte nc — Fri, 24 Oct 2008 13:57:33 GMT

Sorry to post from a previous topic. I couldn't let this ignorance go unchecked:
"If Russert is right, Colorado voters better ask themselves if they're going to vote for a proven leader and war hero in McCain or a Barack Obama who:
1)Talks nice about rural folks in public but privately complains about how "they cling to their guns and religion".
2)Is the most radical pro-abortion (killing of innocent babies) candidate in history.
3) Wants to "spread the wealth" in American rather than grown the wealth. Will give tax cuts to those who don't even pay taxes.
4) Even his running mate Biden (in the primaries)said Obama was "not ready to lead". Both Hillary and Biden also rebuked Obama for saying he would meet with rogue leaders "without preconditions".
5) The same Biden has now warned us of an international crisis in 6 months completely due to Obama being president (note: Biden specified "Obama....47 year old president"). He also warned us that it may appear he's not doing the right thing....and that they'll "need our support".

Colorado, I hope you're listening!!!!"

1. If McNasty was a REAL hero he wouldn't have nearly flunked out of military school, got a ton of people killed, and he wouldn't go around reminding everyone what a hero he is. Real mavericks, real heros don't need to remind people of who they are. They just are.
2. THAT IS PATENTLY FALSE AND YOU KNOW IT. If you don't, check the facts. Start with factcheck.org.
3.ANOTHER LIE. The taxes would taxes deducted from your paycheck like it is now. 95% of PEOPLE WOULD PAY NO TAXES. ONLY THOSE MAKING 25Ok WOULD PAY TAXES AND THE TAX WOULD BE ON WHAT IS EARNED AFTER THE 250K. The trickle down theory doesn't work. We tried it already for 8 years. DIDN'T WORK. Tried it under Reagan. DIDN'T WORK. The repugs are the socialist with their fat cat bailouts and paying off Joe the Plumbers back taxes. NOW THAT'S SOCIALISM.
4. All the candidates said bad things about each other when they were running against each other. In fact, it was McShame's opponents who first introduced me to what a jerk he is. Now, they're his surrogates? Hmmmm...Also, the Bush cowboy approach is not working. IT'S TIME FOR DIPLOMACY.
5. Yep, once again, Joe opened mouth and inserted foot. Here's the part Hannity won't tell you -- he also talked about how All presidents going back to Regan were tested in their first 6 months -- then went on to say that "Barack has a spine made of steel" and will lead us through it. TELL THE WHOLE STORY!

First thoughts: Not over 'til it's over

Keith Eidson, Memphis, TN — Fri, 24 Oct 2008 13:58:50 GMT

The AP poll from October 22, 2008 hasn't been mentioned by NBC News. This poll shows the race even.

I don't understand why the network news I prefer over all others isn't showing all sides.

First thoughts: Not over 'til it's over

Eric, Salinas, CA — Fri, 24 Oct 2008 13:59:01 GMT

We'll be calling Colin Powell's endorsement The Great Flood as he convinced lots of moderate Republicans to make a leap of logic to vote for Obama. So disgusting how the repugnant ones downplay his endorsement as racist when they are the racists.

Ah is McNasty running out of money? Hah Hah that's the way the ball bounces as Obama crushes his nasty oppinent with tons of cash. So gratifying that the party of the little people is crushing the party of the rich and greedy with tons of money! Now that's Poetic Justice!

Go Obama/Biden 08/12!

First thoughts: Not over 'til it's over

Carol, Phoenix, AZ — Fri, 24 Oct 2008 14:00:17 GMT

Do the people of Indiana and Pennasylvania forget how good life was during the Clinton years? This just goes to show you how uninformed these folks are. They'll vote party loyalty, even when the outcome is going to hurt them. And if its a matter of national security, please remember, Senator Obama is an intelligent man, with great minds supporting him. Wake up people!!!

First thoughts: Not over 'til it's over

Erik, Mechanicsburg, PA — Fri, 24 Oct 2008 14:01:28 GMT

<<"Is the McCain campaign guaranteeing to Americans that a crisis won't occur under his watch?">>

A crisis already happened during the last couple of months: The economy tanked.

And how did McCain respond? "The economy is sound! Wait, I mean our workers are sound! Wait, I think we need a commission! Wait, I blame Barack Obama! No, I changed my mind..we need to fire the head of the SEC! Wait, okay...now I'm convinced...we're gonna be in a recession by Monday if we don't act NOW!"

Way to handle a crisis there, Johnny! Anything else you wanna fling against the wall to see if it sticks?

First thoughts: Not over 'til it's over

John Bohlman in Wis. — Fri, 24 Oct 2008 14:01:42 GMT

Swing, and a miss!! If days=swings then McCain must be having a 30+pitch strikeout!!
In 11 days we can start to heal the country from the near fatal wounds that Bush & company have inflicted on us. We need change, we need Barack Obama!!!

First thoughts: Not over 'til it's over

Full Moon — Fri, 24 Oct 2008 14:04:40 GMT

Mccain is living in a fantasy land if he thinks he still has a shot. I'm glad I'll be on the winning side in 2008! And to the fake Full Moon who keeps impersonating me - stop it! I'm the original Full Moon who originally endorsed mccain but is now fully behind senator obama!

First thoughts: Not over 'til it's over

Elton K, Chicago, IL — Fri, 24 Oct 2008 14:05:15 GMT

Chicago Mayor announce yesterday Obama has agreed to pay $2 million dollars to have his Victory Celebration at Grant Park instead of the United Center where the City wanted him to have it.

First thoughts: Not over 'til it's over

matt — Fri, 24 Oct 2008 14:05:58 GMT

No one in the media is allowed to say the race is done, but the facts are there. How many double-digit leads (nationally and in most battlegrounds)have disappeared in presidential races within two weeks? Not many...

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

First thoughts: Not over 'til it's over

Amanda, NH — Fri, 24 Oct 2008 14:06:03 GMT

Why has McCain not received endorsements from those who know him well? Maybe because they don't know him anymore. So many have commented on the McCain they once knew. They don't recognize this guy.

A guidance teacher passed out a paper describing what core values are to my sixth grade students.

Honesty - You tell the truth
Integrity - You act in an honorable way
Respect for Others - You show others that you value them through your actions and comments
Responsibility - You are able to choose between what is right and what is wrong. You are responsible for your behavior and you accept the consequences of your behavior. You can be trusted. You are reliable.

If we expect children to do these things, shouldn't we expect the same from our candidates? I believe that John McCain, at one time, did have core values. But he has lost his way and has let his campaign managers mold and shape him into someone so unrecognizable that his own colleagues can't endorse him.

Barack Obama, on the other hand, has shown a steadiness and a sense of self that is truly inspiring and amazing. I am finally able to look up to a leader in the way that my parents looked up to JKF. November 4th, here we come.

First thoughts: Not over 'til it's over

Juan, Ft lauderdale, Fl — Fri, 24 Oct 2008 14:06:41 GMT

"Smart campaigning and traction for his arguments" That is laugh out histerical considering they have run the most hateful, schizo, disjointed, fear mongering old school GOP tastics that the voters are TOTALLY IGNORING YOU MCSHAME. In regards to the Democrats controlling all branches of gov., what comes around goes around. Remember when the GOP controlled all three and refused the Democrats any say in representative government. You reap what you sow!

First thoughts: Not over 'til it's over

Jake the Snake — Fri, 24 Oct 2008 14:06:43 GMT

"The McCain campaign is roughly in the position where Vice President Gore was running against President Bush one week before the election of 2000"

And Gore lost. Is this really the comparison they want to draw?

This race is over. Denial is not a mountain in Alaska.

First thoughts: Not over 'til it's over

Obama Is Best For America — Fri, 24 Oct 2008 14:07:54 GMT

Remember ---- AND MANY ARE CONVENIENTLY LEAVING THIS OUT ---- that Joe Biden also said that Obama has a SPINE OF STEEL where it comes to crisis. He will know how to handle it. Don't buy McCain and Palin's garbage, voters.

Let's get out the vote for OBAMA and BIDEN. I have a feeling they will be in the top 3 of best President and Vice President.

Stand on long lines in the rain, if you have to! It's very important that we end this long 8 years reign of Republicans.

OBAMA/BIDEN '08

First thoughts: Not over 'til it's over

Joe Don — Fri, 24 Oct 2008 14:08:53 GMT

Looks like McCain's proposal for a spending "freeze" covers only those selected programs he doesn't like. That would work about as well as ice skating on a lake that's only partially frozen.

What a "maverick." What a joke.

First thoughts: Not over 'til it's over

cerrojim — Fri, 24 Oct 2008 14:09:16 GMT

I keep waiting for the Neocon planned terrorist attack. They have only Fear and Lies to run on and the Lies are not working. That leaves the usual Fear that many Americans can't seem to overcome as the GOP Neocons only tactic. How many of us will they kill to stay in power and where? And, yes, I believe they are that evil! They will do anything to stay in power.

First thoughts: Not over 'til it's over

MK,MO — Fri, 24 Oct 2008 14:09:55 GMT

You guys at First Read have ruined this blog, why is it that you can't post more comments and let people have back and forth discussion of the issues like in the past, people don't like plunking out responses when they know most likely won't be posted, this is not what a blog is supposed to be, it used to be very entertaining to read, now it just sucks. Fox News even allows uninhibited posting on their blog, come on dudes lighten up already you look foolish.

First thoughts: Not over 'til it's over

MK,MO — Fri, 24 Oct 2008 14:10:01 GMT

First thoughts: Not over 'til it's over

dan Austin, Tx — Fri, 24 Oct 2008 14:10:42 GMT

"It requires a combination of smart campaigning, traction for his arguments and what the McCain team hopes will be fears among the electorate at the prospect of a Democrat in the White House with expanded Democratic majorities in Congress.”
--------------------------------------------------------
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Fear, fear, fear!!!!
We can't win the campaign without it. Policy?? What's that? Honor? Integrity?? Nope lets scare people. it worked so well in the market crash and the elections following 9/11. We promote ignorance and hate.
just remember my fellow American voters these are the same tactics that gave us Bush and Cheney. We gave the republicans a blank check for the last eight years and we see what they have done with it. Insanity is doing the same thing over and over and expecting different results.
An Independent who voted for Obama/Biden
Vote Early, Vote on Nov. 4th but vote!

First thoughts: Not over 'til it's over

Marlin, MS — Fri, 24 Oct 2008 14:11:19 GMT

Palin's answer - More redistribution of wealth and socialism! Where's the just get gov't out of our way maverick? Washington's already changed her.

First thoughts: Not over 'til it's over

VoteForAmerica — Fri, 24 Oct 2008 14:14:15 GMT

Obama's most important coattails likely lie in Minnesota. The correlation between an Obama win and a Franken win seems to eb about 80%. This means that if Obama reaches 55% in the final tally, Franken will likely win as well in the three party race.
http://voteforamerica.net/editorials/Comments.aspx?ArticleId=116&ArticleName=Minnesota+Meta-Polling

The Bradley Effect will not, by itself, alter the outcome of the election.
Debunking the Bradley Effect, Again
http://voteforamerica.net/editorials/Comments.aspx?ArticleId=118&ArticleName=Debunking+the+Bradley+Effect%2c+Again

First thoughts: Not over 'til it's over

Ken, MN — Fri, 24 Oct 2008 14:14:39 GMT

Palin wants to "...allow parents to choose whether federal money for their child is used in a public, private, religious or secular school without navigating a cumbersome administrative process."

What??? No, Governor Palin! If a parent wants their child to go to a religious school, the parent pays for it! (Pay attention please, I will write this very slowly for you) The pupose of a religious school is to primarily teach their RELIGION and then also other subjects. That is the reason they exist!!

Ms. Palin, do you approve of federal funds being used at ANY religious school? or just the ones you approve? What about the schools of the Mormon splinter sect/cults in AZ and TX? Maybe not? I imagine in that case, you would institute a "cumbersome administrative process" to keep that school from getting funds.

God save us from the tyranny of the religious right.

First thoughts: Not over 'til it's over

Berkeley Bear in Illinois — Fri, 24 Oct 2008 14:14:56 GMT

I get a sneaky hunch many more exemptions to the "freeze" are coming as the election gets closeer.

As a parent of a child with autism in public school, fully funding IDEA would be great. John McCain had the chance to do it for 26 years and never tried, but I'll take him at his word that this time would be different. Full funding for IDEA has been part of Obama's platform for at least a year, along with funding CLASS, passing the Community Choice Act and otherwise strengthening Medicare and the health care system people (not just children) with special needs rely on. McCain still opposes all of those steps.
Also, birth to 3 right now is one of the bright spots in most states' systems, with states funding therapy and skill supports. Its 3-6, where kids aren't covered by early intervention programs and aren't yet in the education system, that is a critical gap in current programs.
Finally, the bs about carrying funding easily sounds like a great idea, but the problem is that a huge number of private schools (other than those who only take people with special needs) won't take people with special needs who have
any sort of behavioral issue. This shouldn't become a cover for every child with special needs to be whisked out of mainstream schools and into specialty services schools, especially since socialization is so critical to the advancement of kids with autism.
I see no suggestion that McCain would force the private schools to open their doors.

As a whole, this isn't a policy - just a couple of darts thrown at the myriad issues of people with special needs, probably based on polling that shows people are most sympathetic to the issues of children.

First thoughts: Not over 'til it's over

sotiredofignorance — Fri, 24 Oct 2008 14:16:21 GMT

I listened to Palin's speech on special needs kids. My son is severly impacted with Tourette Syndrome. And so we are clear about what that means, Tourette isn't just tics. He has severe OCD, ADHD and a bunch of other problems, all listed under the heading of Tourette.

Palin showed herself to be ignorant of IDEA. All candidates have always called for it to be fully funded, it never has been. To say that parents will be able to send their kids to private school on those funds is laughable. What private school is going to take a kid like mine, unless it is a school for the disabled, which flies in the face of IDEA "free and appropriate education in the LEAST RESTRICTIVE ENVIRONMENT."

The most laughable thing was Palin stammering around about a "cure" for what she termed "Oh I don't want to call it disease." Then fund genetics, identifying where these markers are, fund stem cell research.

But the thing she seems to be unaware of: Special needs kids are tested under NCLB. In fact, in my state, the testing nearly put my son in the hospital. I had to threaten get an attorney to make them stop. There are other measures that can be used to show progress without making my kid's disability worse.

Palin is a total idiot.

First thoughts: Not over 'til it's over

MG atl., ga. — Fri, 24 Oct 2008 14:16:48 GMT

“‘The McCain campaign is roughly in the position where Vice President Gore was running against President Bush one week before the election of 2000,’ said Steve Schmidt

Gore and Bush were tied one week before the election. I guess being 10 points down is "roughly" close to being tied.

First thoughts: Not over 'til it's over

jawillie, Philadelphia, PA. — Fri, 24 Oct 2008 14:16:54 GMT

>>>But she ends her week by delivering her first policy speech this morning in Pittsburgh. In the speech, per NBC’s Savannah Guthrie and NBC/NJ’s Matthew Berger, Palin will highlight her commitment to families with special needs.
==========
OMG! THEY'RE LETTING HER SPEAK! I wonder just how far she plans to throw McCain under the bus, given that she seems to contradict his positions everytime she talks to the media on her own lately.

Obama/Biden '08!
http://jawillie.blog.com

First thoughts: Not over 'til it's over

mcar in Missouri — Fri, 24 Oct 2008 14:17:26 GMT

McCain and Palin need to realize it is over. I once had respect for McCain but seeing him these last few months and his pick of Mrs. Palin is all to much. I will be voting for a republican for the first time in my life and I know there will be alot of people who look to this campain and say 'What the hell was he thinking". The only thing worse about Mrs. Palin is Mrs. McCain in all of her jewels telling people that OBAMA has been running an awful campain. Well let me tell you I will be there on Election Day to vote for OBAMA who, in my opinion has run a much better campain than you Mr. McCain. Mr. Obama has kept to his message unlike you. I wish he would forgo his campain for good. One last point: Mrs. McCain don't try and tell us you know our economic problems. You have never nor will you ever know what it is like to live from paycheck to paycheck.

Signed,
FORMER REPUBLICAN for OBAMA

First thoughts: Not over 'til it's over

cerrojim — Fri, 24 Oct 2008 14:18:59 GMT

Come on First Read, you know that such an attack was arranged during Rice's visit to Libya and the lower level contacts with Iran. Post the truth. (Sound like a Republican don't I?)

First thoughts: Not over 'til it's over

katiec Pekin, IL — Fri, 24 Oct 2008 14:19:39 GMT

With his campaign, Mccain has proven to the American voters he has no integrity or honor. You cannot
continuously lie, distort and attack and expect
the people to not realize there is no substance.
Far as Palin, she has followed the same path
but to even more extreme. She incites hate, fear
and anger at her rallies, spoon feeding those
radicals out there.
If I remember correctly, she cut funding for
special needs children in Alaska. Will she tell
the truth under oath? Quite frankly, she is such
a chronic liar do not know if she realizes what
truth is.

First thoughts: Not over 'til it's over

Dottie Swarthmore PA — Fri, 24 Oct 2008 14:20:02 GMT

Why is Sarah Palin giving this policy speech? This type of speech is usually given by the Presidential candidate, has the McCain campaign turned their backs on the Senator.

First thoughts: Not over 'til it's over

big p — Fri, 24 Oct 2008 14:20:18 GMT

I cannot trust a lying pig (Palin). She needs to give a speech to the pigs and pitbulls.

First thoughts: Not over 'til it's over

Some sincere questions for Mark Murray — Fri, 24 Oct 2008 14:20:43 GMT

Mr. Murray,

Your defense above ("As we’ve mentioned before, Biden was inartfully referring to the historical fact that new presidents have always been tested by international crises in his first year of office")of Biden's "international crisis" comments are an insult to your readers and to true journalism. How is it that again and again you guys give Democrats the benefit of the doubt while assuming the worst for Republicans???? Biden was specific about Obama, mentioning his name, age, and comparison to Pres Kennedy. That, taken with Biden's own words of fear about Obama months ago "he's NOT ready to lead", "the presidency doesn't lend itself to on the job training" and Hillary's concern about Obama "picking up the phone at 3am" in a crisis make this a MUCH BIGGER issue than your or your liberal journalist friends are brave enough to get into. And don't forget the rest of Biden's words to his liberal fund raisers about how at first Obama's response won't seem right and how the Obama/Biden will need these liberal supporters to help "influence" those around them. And you consider these mere "inartful" words????
Please answer...if McCain or Palin had said these words, how many consecutive FIRST READ postings would've dealt with the issue? How many reporters would've hounded them to give details about the "4 or 5 scenarios" of this coming crisis. How many questions about "why will you need the influence of your supporters during the crisis"? What will go wrong?
Mr. Murray, you know you're washing over this story and your bias is not professional.

First thoughts: Not over 'til it's over

BJ in NC — Fri, 24 Oct 2008 14:22:00 GMT

Does all of this signal the end of the wishy-washy politics of Joe (sore loser) Lieberman. If nothing else this makes me so happy that he can go to the corner and lick his wounds appropriately. He has been such a disappointment to the Democratic party. He would sell his own principles to be a part of something. Good going America!

First thoughts: Not over 'til it's over

John Alexander, Edinboro,PA — Fri, 24 Oct 2008 14:22:21 GMT

The moderate wing of the RNC is raising up it's head and saying NO to SARAH and the base, no more, no way, no how will they let the rabid right steal the party away from the moderate wing.
They are tired of being labeled extremists.
Just think how close this election would be if John was aloud to pick his own VP, Joe Lieberman, but the base needed it's hate stoked, they needed the anger and resentment that they bring to the party.
You can have your base, we don't need no stinkin' base, we got average americans who can't stand the devisive ways of this group, this is a referendum on you and your self-absorbed hate mongering.

First thoughts: Not over 'til it's over

Brian Bert, Agusta, MI — Fri, 24 Oct 2008 14:25:55 GMT

The latest Investor's Business Daily tracking poll shows Obama leading McCain by just 1 point. A statistical dead heat! This poll now backs up the AP Poll just out that shows McCain behind Obama also by 1 point -- essentially tied. You won't hear about these polls headlined by MSNBC, too revealing. The IBD poll shows that McCain has cut into Obama's lead for a second day.
According to IBD: "The Republican is making headway with middle- and working- class voters, and has surged 10 points in two days among those earning between $30,000 and $75,000. He has also gone from an 11-point deﬁcit to a 9-point lead among Catholics by getting back to Republican basics."

First thoughts: Not over 'til it's over

Dante — Fri, 24 Oct 2008 14:26:10 GMT

No historical ignorance here.

Eisenhower not tested?
So there was no "test" over Berlin? No crisis in Hungary? No issues over there in the Suez or Lebanon, huh? No problems whatsoever in Cuba or Indochina?

Reagan not tested?
No crisis in Poland? Total calm down there in Nicaragua, Guatemala and El Salvador right? No Hezbollah bombing of our barracks (which didn't happen on this date in 1983 either). And Iran certainly never challenged us in the Persian Gulf did they?

George H.W. Bush not tested?
So Saddam never challenged us over Kuwait? And I seem to remember there being some kind of issue down there in Panama too. Maybe it's just my mind playing tricks on me. And absolutely nothing was going on in Eastern Europe was there?

The point is every president gets tested whether he is perceived as "strong" or "weak". And all presidents have and will make mistakes.

First thoughts: Not over 'til it's over

Todd, St. Louis — Fri, 24 Oct 2008 14:28:42 GMT

It's too bad, but not necessarily surprising, that John McCain had to forego his moderate base and woo the more conservative factions. Those are the groups with the deep pockets, and I doubt anyone anticipated Obama's remarkable ability to raise money. I think, however, he ended up coming across as disingenuous to all parties, which is costing him dearly at this late period in the campaign. While I've been an Obama supporter all along, I've always held great respect for John McCain. It's been frustrating to see him contradict his 20+ years in office simply in order to appeal to the far right. Regardless of the election results, he is an American hero and a fine legislator who deserves great respect.

First thoughts: Not over 'til it's over

Charles, Cincinnati, Ohio — Fri, 24 Oct 2008 14:28:44 GMT

Doesn't anyone want less government, honest journalism and a victory against our enemies, how can we continue to empower a few politicians, jounalist and enemies! Well why do we?

First thoughts: Not over 'til it's over

Jack — Fri, 24 Oct 2008 18:21:00 GMT

FYI Powell is a much better and qualified leader than the Jet Jockey McCain, why would anyone say things against them (unless it has to do with RACE) I hope you realize that McCain's only real leadership his "TESTED" voice is sitting in a jet on a ship waiting for someone else to tell him what to do

First thoughts: Not over 'til it's over

shawn williams, Boise,Idaho — Fri, 24 Oct 2008 18:22:20 GMT

It is definetly not over for McCain yet. I do have some concerns as Obama is going after the weaker younger vote. I have had numerous conversations with these people in the age group of 21 to 30 and almost all of them are only voting for Obama because of some belief he is going to change things wether good or bad they do not care. They have little knowledge of the issues if any at all. I ask them basic questions to see if they understand, but they seem more interested in playing video games and texting friends with colorful cell phones. Many told me that all this is not going to affect them one way or another. Other comments were this would be way cool to have the first black president, but noted they did not know his platform at all. We should all be very concerned about our younger generation as they need much help.

No more freebies for the weak (liberals)

First thoughts: Not over 'til it's over

MK, Toledo, Ohio — Fri, 24 Oct 2008 18:22:42 GMT

I have been so impressed by this news agency and their ability to 'tell' us what things mean when it supports their bias. Most recently, the inate ability to know that Joe Biden was 'inartfully referring to the historical fact that all new presidents have been tested in their first years'. Oh, that's what he was saying-thanks! What about the part where he specifically stated that they will likely not handle it well and to stick with them anyway. Was Joe being 'inartful' there as well?

First thoughts: Not over 'til it's over

Guadalupe Mendoza — Fri, 24 Oct 2008 18:22:44 GMT

How many of you out there, complaining about the inexperience in foreign affairs. I see that he is a very intelligent person and sourrounds himself with experts,reads,listens all people not only to the rich.
As for McCain, I respect him and appreciate his dedication to our country. But I question his judgement when he chose Mrs.Pailn as his running mate. If he was advise to take her. I have my doubts. Also a BIG CONCER AND FEAR is, If havean forbids something happens to McCain. Would you trust that Mrs.Palin will lead this country, better and Mr.Biden?
I come from a third generation Hispanic that were born and lived in Texas when it was a part of Mexico. So we are the real citizens of the U.S. along with our Native American Brothers and Sisters. This is just food for thought, for those of you that consider, Hispanic and Native American as second class citizens. I AM PROUD TO BE AN TRUE and PRODUCTIVE AMERICAN.

First thoughts: Not over 'til it's over

Ohio Voter — Fri, 24 Oct 2008 18:23:24 GMT

Joe the plumber is nothing more than a campaign prop. If you do a little bit of research, he is directly connected the Keating five scandal.(his father is Michael Keatings son-in-law). Who is Micahel Keating? He is the infamous V.P. of the Lincoln Savings and Loan in which Mcbush was disgraced and censured by his own party for ethics violations. If he were a Democrat at that time he would have went to prison. By the way, as for Joe, the plumber's false undecided status,he has given several thousand to the repugnants and none to the DNC.

First thoughts: Not over 'til it's over

Mike,FP, AE — Fri, 24 Oct 2008 18:23:31 GMT

Lie? Distort? Obama has ben taking money from big lobbiestsfor the last 2 years. Instead o taking the money from the big corporations, he has asked that the lobbiests individually donate to him in their own names. He has even received about $860,000 from people n theKenya Government and they have already given him their honey do list.