First thoughts: Another punch in the gut

Chuck, NY — Tue, 28 Oct 2008 13:43:41 GMT

Great speech yesterday Senator Obama! It was what I was hoping you would give. I hope there are more big gatherings like Denver and St. Louis in store for later this week. Stay on the ‘Hope’ message through Tuesday!

P.S.- I wonder if we will ever hear from Jerry in Corpus Christi again?

First thoughts: Another punch in the gut

the Pajama Pundit — Tue, 28 Oct 2008 13:46:04 GMT

Republicans better hope this is a one-time phenomenon. But over the last decade, the trend has been in favor of the Democrats in the growth states. That's a flip from the decade before when it was the GOP that was showing strength in the growth states.
*******************************************************

And the Republicans have George W. Bush to thank for all of this.

http://thepajamapundit.com/

First thoughts: Another punch in the gut

LoOK — Tue, 28 Oct 2008 13:47:50 GMT

I don't know how many more punches the GOP cna take before they are down for the count!

Feel free to comment:
http://lastofourkind.blogspot.com

First thoughts: Another punch in the gut

Joe - STL — Tue, 28 Oct 2008 13:47:52 GMT

Interesting note: With current polling in AZ, Obama is polling higher in most critical swing states than McCain is polling in his home state.

First thoughts: Another punch in the gut

Gregory Peek, Birmingham, Alabama — Tue, 28 Oct 2008 13:48:04 GMT

If Alan Greenspan can admit that his views on the economy led to America’s economic meltdown, why can’t McCain and Bush?

America needs Obama.

First thoughts: Another punch in the gut

justthinkinoutloud — Tue, 28 Oct 2008 13:48:15 GMT

Just came across the news that McGoo has called for Ted Stevens to step down. Wow McGoo, too little, too late to start acting like an honorable politician again, sorry, bye bye.

First thoughts: Another punch in the gut

Keith's Brother — Tue, 28 Oct 2008 13:48:27 GMT

Speaking of punches in the gut. Looks like media representives from both liberal and conservative background blasted MSNBC for their heavy liberal bias in their so called "news" coverage. It's pretty bad when people like Linda Bloodworth-Thomason, a self-proclaimed liberal Democrat, just blasted the MSNBC coverage. MSNBC is an embarrassment, not only to any remaining integrity news agencies have anymore, but to this country. MSNBC really needs to clean house and clean up it's act, otherwise it just won't be around in a couple of years.

First thoughts: Another punch in the gut

Eric, Salinas, CA — Tue, 28 Oct 2008 13:49:43 GMT

What a wonderful morning here on First Read with so many great articles to post comments on. Going to be some great reader comments posted from Obama supporters. So many wicked repugnant ones in the news, from Felon Senators to Neo Nazi skinhead assassins to mentally disturbed McNasty campaign workers. Such a great day to be a Democrat!

So when will McNasty and his little Twisted Sister reject and denounce all of these criminals? If they don't then they must support these criminals. As I've often said the GOP is the party of white collar criminals.

Go Obama/Biden 08/12!

First thoughts: Another punch in the gut

Mia in Miami — Tue, 28 Oct 2008 13:50:00 GMT

The RNC has to advertise in Montana now? Bwhahaha...they suck.

But anyway, Bill O'Rielly was on David Letterman last night and he is such a hipocrit. He stated that "the media is beating up on Sarah Palin". Is this clown serious? Did he and CNN's Cambell Brown come to the rescue of Senator Obama when Wright, Rezco, Ayers, "unamerican", "lipstick on a pig" and several other gates came up or did they participate?

I dislike that guy so much and the rest of the FOX news organization puke and is why I will never watch them and their GOP talking points ever again.

First thoughts: Another punch in the gut

LoOK — Tue, 28 Oct 2008 13:50:21 GMT

Speaking of the map, I was looking at electoral map, and Obama could win before the polls close in The Mountain time zone. Check it out, it really isn't that difficult.

Feel free to comment:
http://lastofourkind.blogspot.com

First thoughts: Another punch in the gut

pat huntington ny — Tue, 28 Oct 2008 13:52:10 GMT

the campaign message is the economy...
the voting message is be wary of voting irregularities, also known as republican cheating tactics like purging voter lists, malfunctioning touch screens, and discriminatory allocation of voting machines and polling places that create long lines at predominately minority districts.

First thoughts: Another punch in the gut

Broke in Florida — Tue, 28 Oct 2008 13:52:57 GMT

Just one week, 7 short Fall days and history will be made. The Republican nightmare will finally be over, however the hangover will last for decades. A new era, will dawn and the "middle class" will triumph ! The Republican party is finally going to be over. Good riddens to bad rubbage ! Just a bunch of crooks.

First thoughts: Another punch in the gut

Paul Miller, Woodbridge, VA — Tue, 28 Oct 2008 13:53:50 GMT

FR: "[Florida] is clearly the state the Obama campaign sees as the McCain backbreaker."

I don't agree. First, I'd say the Pennsylvania is the one that stands out among equals. Second, there clearly is a number of states that can serve that "backbreaker" role.

That's McCain's problem. He's forced to battle it out in a large number of states, he can't afford to lose any of them (granted, he can lose a small one if Pennsylvania flips for him), and he's doing it with a cash disadvantage.

That said, its not over yet. I'm not sure if we can assume its over at any point before Tuesday night, because the bottom line here is we simply don't know if voters will get in that booth and pull levers for the black guy. Until we see it happen, we don't know for sure it can.

First thoughts: Another punch in the gut

Eric, Salinas, CA — Tue, 28 Oct 2008 13:53:58 GMT

Time for Colorado to vote down that wicked evil personhood law. A just fertilized fetus is nothing but a parasite that deserves no legal rights whatsoever. Only after the fetus comes out and lives on it's own is it a real human! Just more cultural garbage distractions from the evangelical christian lunatic fringe that must be rejected and denounced!

Speaking of Georgia they need to get rid of that creepy Lynn Westmoreland who is the most ignorant member of the House! Minnesota needs to get rid of Michele Bachamn, the most despicable hate monger in Congress!

Go Obama/Biden 08/12!

First thoughts: Another punch in the gut

Suburban Mom paying attention, IL — Tue, 28 Oct 2008 13:54:16 GMT

"Republicans better hope this is a one-time phenomenon. But over the last decade, the trend has been in favor of the Democrats in the growth states. That's a flip from the decade before when it was the GOP that was showing strength in the growth states."
------------------------------------------------------
Republicans: ignore these trends at your own peril.

I know the GOP has become increasingly anti-science over the years, but the evolutionary "Adapt or Die" mantra definitely applies. If the GOP continues with the same rotten Lee Atwater/Karl Rove strategy of fear, hate, and divisiveness, they will be wandering in the wilderness for a very long time. Take a lesson from the Michele Bachmann debacle. "Real Americans" know in their hearts that most folks just want a fair shake: a decent job, a home to raise our families in, and enough to cover the basics. If the GOP can get back to these fiscal roots, they may have a chance.

Bottom line: Lose the fear and hate. They don't sell like they used to.

First thoughts: Another punch in the gut

Scott Switaj — Tue, 28 Oct 2008 13:54:24 GMT

Sarah Palin is coming to Shippensburg. I will be going to this rally, and I will be paying attention for one thing. This event is being held in Heiges Field House at Shippensburg Universty, and over the past several days TV ads for Obama and his education plan have been playing across my TV. Will Palin mention what will happen with education under a McCain/Palin administration, or will they pass on an opportunity to do so with college students in the background and instead carry on the same speech used in the past couple of days. I've heard Obama's plan, and as a future teacher I am listening Gov. Palin - Tell me what I can expect from you and McCain.

First thoughts: Another punch in the gut

BROKE IN FLORIDA — Tue, 28 Oct 2008 13:56:03 GMT

LET'S SUM UP THE ELECTION IN ONE WORD... "FLORIDA" .

First thoughts: Another punch in the gut

Ridge — Tue, 28 Oct 2008 13:56:27 GMT

How intresting that a republican senator goes to trial right before an election, yet the democratic senator from Florida doesn't have to go to trial till after the elections.

First thoughts: Another punch in the gut

Nashville_fan — Tue, 28 Oct 2008 13:56:41 GMT

I find it very entertaining to watch the media talking heads bemoan the fact that "Senator Obama lied about accepting public financing".

That is very simply not true.

No matter how many times you repeat it, it will not be true.

Senator Obama made a CONDITIONAL STATEMENT to WORK WITH the Republican nominee in attempt to get an AGREEMENT to control UNREGULATED SPENDING by 527 groups - you know like the SWIFT BOAT LIARS that took down John Kerry? Remember that?

Senator Obama has wisely opted to apply the Powell Doctrine of OVERWHELMING FINANCIAL FORCE to this election, so that he can RESPOND SWIFTLY to all the lies and innuendos constantly flooding out of right wing radio and TV unchecked by a corporate news media that is more concerned with their ratings than basic fairness.

Senator Obama is funded by WE THE PEOPLE - and we are making our voices heard - we are TIRED of SPECIAL INTERESTS running WASHINGTON.

ENOUGH!

Obama/Biden '08/'12

First thoughts: Another punch in the gut

Paul Miller, Woodbridge, VA — Tue, 28 Oct 2008 13:56:48 GMT

A week before the big day, and the Republican is going to his friendliest of areas in North Carolina - the home of Fort Bragg.

I can just imagine Republicans all across the country anxiously holding up those football D-Fence signs.

First thoughts: Another punch in the gut

Ron Indiana — Tue, 28 Oct 2008 13:56:51 GMT

Indeed, it is another punch in the gut for the GOP. It is facinating that Palin's comments are really vague, like, "Do the right thing". What the Heck does that mean? I think it could be that Sarah has done the same thing and does not want to incriminate herself.

It was touched on last night on Olbermann and Maddow, and to me the biggest story of the day is the beginning of the civil war among the conservative ranks in the republican party. Jason Linkins (Huffington) reports that Jim Nuzzo, a former White House aide, said a lot of people are going to be excommunicated, including David Brooks, David Frum, Peggy Noonan. The test question is, "Wherre did you stand with Sarah Palin" Other conservatives include Christopher Buckley, George Will,Matthew Dowd and Chuck Hagel. NOW THAT LOOKS LIKE A HECK OF A FIGHT ABOUT TO BREW!! AND JUST ONE WEEK BEFORE THE ELECTION. First Read--Please keep on top of this story as it is as big or bigger than the Ted Stevens story. If this spills out during the week, Obama will win by over 350 EV's. Moderate republicans will shake their head, turn away and...vote for Obama.

First thoughts: Another punch in the gut

Nashville_fan — Tue, 28 Oct 2008 13:57:59 GMT

One of the great ironies of this campaign is that you have one side running on not wanting to "spread the wealth" while the majority of Americans don't have any wealth to spread.

Talk about tone deaf.

First thoughts: Another punch in the gut

LB, Virginia — Tue, 28 Oct 2008 13:58:17 GMT

Thank you Chuck,Mika, John Harwood and others, for standing up against Moron Joe this am. What is the guy's problem? Hey Joe, the BLACK guy needs more money. He NEVER said he would definitely take the money, he filled out a survey for G'ds sake. A woman candidate would also be advised not take the standard financing, she'd need a lot more to beat the likes of the Republican party.

First thoughts: Another punch in the gut

Erik, Mechanicsburg, PA — Tue, 28 Oct 2008 13:58:56 GMT

<<"And that control was part of the culture of corruption that I was elected to fight.">>

So what you're saying is: YOU DIDN'T DO YOUR JOB.

Reading you loud and clear, Sarah!

First thoughts: Another punch in the gut

LB, Virginia — Tue, 28 Oct 2008 13:59:55 GMT

Palin will never be president. She'll be lucky to serve Alaska again, depending on the upcoming ethics investigation. She uses them, then loses them, for her own gain. Why can't men see this for what it is?

First thoughts: Another punch in the gut

Flow, Asheville, North Carolina — Tue, 28 Oct 2008 14:00:00 GMT

First, let me personally think the Clintons for all there hard work. That being said, are Republicans really feeling confident in winning this election. I don't think they are.

First thoughts: Another punch in the gut

subgruvet, ok — Tue, 28 Oct 2008 14:02:08 GMT

I wonder if Americans will see a new party in the next four years. I wouldn't be surprized if the GOP splinters. There seems to be a chasm between the moderates and where the likes of Palin or Huckabee would take the party.

Vote Obama

It wouldn't bother me to see democratic control for four years....the pressure will be on them to perform and they'll pay for it one way or the other afterwards. FDR and his party performed and helped an ailing nation. Obama may do the same. Saying that, the nation needs more than one strong party and the Libertarians aren't one of them...or the Green party, etc.

First thoughts: Another punch in the gut

Pete W., Wheaton, IL — Tue, 28 Oct 2008 14:03:14 GMT

Unless their is a major Dem meltdown or the Bradley effect reigns true - ITS OVER FOR MCCAIN PALIN.

Also consider this. Organizing a campaign and developing a winning strategy are definite characteristics of a leader and soemone who deserves to be President. In that respect Obama trumps McCain. His has been very organized and strategically brilliant, while McCain has been sloppy and un-organized.

So the question then is, in these exceedingly tough economic times, does America want an organized strategically strong President, or a sloppy, un-organized fool!

First thoughts: Another punch in the gut

Ralph, Cincinnati, Ohio — Tue, 28 Oct 2008 14:04:32 GMT

McCain needs to talk more about himself and less about Obama

First thoughts: Another punch in the gut

Bailey Quarters, Twin Cities, MN — Tue, 28 Oct 2008 14:05:49 GMT

If you're undecided, please read up on reputable sites and papers and listen to radio programs about the candidates and the issues. It seems really late in the game to not know who you're voting for but consider all factors, age of the candidates, their voting history, their health, who would take over in an unfortunate event. Keep in mind, it's not just about being better off 4 yrs from now but about how the policies the next administratrion puts into place will affect generations to come. I believe once you have done this, your choice will be crystal clear.

Obama/Biden '08-'12

First thoughts: Another punch in the gut

RD, ALEXANDRIA, VA — Tue, 28 Oct 2008 14:06:00 GMT

Sen. Stevens should resign ... show some uncharacteristic dignity.

GO OBAMA/BIDEN '08/'12

A RABID REPUBLICAN VIETNAM-ERA VET FAT OLD PREJUDICED WHITE GUY NOW FOR OBAMA/BIDEN

First thoughts: Another punch in the gut

JTatEHT — Tue, 28 Oct 2008 14:06:07 GMT

If Chambliss loses in Georgia it will be a case of well deserved poetic justice. He never should have defeated Max Cleland, and it is high time for the Georgia chickens to come home to roost.

First thoughts: Another punch in the gut

j fl — Tue, 28 Oct 2008 14:06:29 GMT

I got several bottles of Totts champagne in the fridge and lots of food for my party on election night. I'm having 3 dem and two repub friends over to celebrate. Yes, I said republicans who are totally disgusted with George Bush and their own party-they are voting for Obama this time around. I predict Obama will be called the winner early in the night. Thank God we can have some healthy and competent people running this country again.

First thoughts: Another punch in the gut

Man Size Safe, Portland, Texas — Tue, 28 Oct 2008 14:06:55 GMT

You'll find no polling to back this up, but Texas may be a surprise. My workplace is filled with women voting Obama, whose husbands are angry at them for doing so. I've also encountered a lot of traditional Republicans on the fence, thinking they'ld at least like to back a winner.

If the black and hispanic vote comes out in sufficient numbers combined with complacence on the other side, there could be a real surprise. It certainly won't be a big win either way.

First thoughts: Another punch in the gut

Linda S., Albuquerque, NM — Tue, 28 Oct 2008 14:08:43 GMT

Hmmm - the GOP sounds oh-so-hurt that they have set themselves up for a lost election and are attempting to blame to blame their lack of funds ( and spending limits). The loss, however, is a direct result of the
self-righteous, demi-god mentality (ex., We know what's best for all Americans - your rights just get in the way - We make the laws, we don't have to follow them)> I saw Obama in Albuquerque Saturday night and left the rally even bett understanding why I - a white, 54 year old Independent woman - supports Obama - he is committed to engaging me in the process of government - whereas the GOP is committed to engaging the process of government to keep me "in my place" economically, politically and even socially. As a result of attending, I voted early yesterday.The GOP should have remembered that that marketing hope and inclusion isn't naive - it's brilliant: hope is what motivates people to change and inclusion provides them the means to change.

First thoughts: Another punch in the gut

no joe, no bo, nj — Tue, 28 Oct 2008 14:08:44 GMT

Talk about a punch in the gut...

in the wake of the intimidation of journalists-by cutting off a television station whose reporter asked questions dissapproved by the Obama campaign, comes the news that the LA Times has a tape of Obama toasting former PLO spokesman Khalidi at a dinner to honor him when he left the University of Chicago for Columbia. The LA Times has reported that, despite being in possession of this tape, they will not release it because it would be "damaging to the campaign". The tape was made at a dinner in 2003, by the way, so is not ancient history.

It is proof that Obama is willing to sit down with the leaders of Iran without preconditions because, as Jesse Jackson has said, Obama will not allow 'zionists' to have clout in his administration. In other words, he is an anti-Semite.

It looks as though the United States is not the only nation Obama seeks to destroy-Israel had better watch its back, too.

First thoughts: Another punch in the gut

Democratic CPA, Rochester Hills, Michigan — Tue, 28 Oct 2008 14:09:00 GMT

7 days and we're free from Republican tyranny!!!!

Obama/Biden '08

First thoughts: Another punch in the gut

Ayaan N., Utah — Tue, 28 Oct 2008 14:09:17 GMT

I think the black man is in for a big surprise next Tuesday night. Not a good surprise either.

First thoughts: Another punch in the gut

Ned Fost, Dover NH — Tue, 28 Oct 2008 14:12:53 GMT

It has been amazing what a few hundred million dollars of George Soros's money can do for an election. And the way he laundered it though so called "small donations", pure genius. Of course this will all come out early next year, so the main stream media has a big cover up job they'll have to do to keep it all quiet.

First thoughts: Another punch in the gut

Maggie Nash, Bellows Falls, VT — Tue, 28 Oct 2008 14:15:42 GMT

maggie, VT

Wasn't there talk about Stevens sending his contractors to Palins house to build it and giving her material for the house?

First thoughts: Another punch in the gut

Erik, Mahopac, NY — Tue, 28 Oct 2008 14:16:03 GMT

Everything is leaning toward an Obama victory. The polls look great. My question is when the exit polling on election day shows an obvious Obama win and then miraculously McCain wins - keeping in mind of the hanky panky going on with the voting - what are we going to do? Are we going to the streets?

We can't let another election get stolen out from under us.

First thoughts: Another punch in the gut

Joe the Barber — Tue, 28 Oct 2008 14:17:12 GMT

I ask people that are voting for Obama why they like him. Answer: "He gives good speeches". I try to engage and question them about Obama's experience, his socialistic tendencies, his similarities to the last populist and failed President, James Carter, and the Obama voters just walk away. "I like Obama" They say. They have no idea why. So networks like msnbc should take a bow in that they have de-educated so many people that it's now okay to vote for a man that "gives good speeches".

First thoughts: Another punch in the gut

Clara Kansas City, MO — Tue, 28 Oct 2008 14:17:22 GMT

McCain has to have his 'life force' renewed by hooking up with Palin every 3 days or so. It is a little bizarre. I guess his crowds of 1,400 are not energizing enough.

Stevens is a punch in the gut; but Palin said he was her mentor. Does anyone have any facts about the contractor on her remodeling and the hockey rink? Heard that yesterday and have had NO time to research. Links are nice,...

I am hosting 5 Berkley students this weekend who are coming in to "knock for Barack". A week seems like an eternity!

First thoughts: Another punch in the gut

jesse St.Paul Minnesota — Tue, 28 Oct 2008 14:17:51 GMT

Alaska,,,,,,Corruption ,,,Ted,Sarah, cut from the same jib.Must be the water!

First thoughts: Another punch in the gut

Lucy Brown, Des Moines, Iowa — Tue, 28 Oct 2008 14:18:16 GMT

More corruption in the GOP? Is anyone surprised? It's time to sweep things clean with a new broom: Obama!

First thoughts: Another punch in the gut

John, St Charles Missouri — Tue, 28 Oct 2008 14:19:06 GMT

Will Palin do an interview and answer the question of who she is voting for? Ohhh I forgot she doesn't do interviews Her handlers who know her knows she can't handle the tough questions like what newspapers she reads. Or is it the handlers who say she should have been doing more interviews. Or is it her thoughts that she doesn't need to follow what the political experts tell her or even the person who choose her i.e. her boss McCain....

Palin 2012 and Republican Party leader. Then we have a chance for a third party with the moderate Republicans starting one.

First thoughts: Another punch in the gut

C in Maryland — Tue, 28 Oct 2008 14:19:19 GMT

First Read - when are you going to report that the Anchorage Daily News endorsed Obama/Biden?

http://www.adn.com/opinion/story/567867.html

"Gov. Palin's nomination clearly alters the landscape for Alaskans as we survey this race for the presidency -- but it does not overwhelm all other judgment. The election, after all is said and done, is not about Sarah Palin, and our sober view is that her running mate, Sen. John McCain, is the wrong choice for president at this critical time for our nation. Sen. Barack Obama, the Democratic nominee, brings far more promise to the office. In a time of grave economic crisis, he displays thoughtful analysis, enlists wise counsel and operates with a cool, steady hand. The same cannot be said of Sen. McCain."

Obama/Biden '08

First thoughts: Another punch in the gut

John B, Des Moines, IA — Tue, 28 Oct 2008 14:19:54 GMT

Turning former battleground states into blue states and former red states into battleground states. Wow, that's a sea change. Speaking of sea changes, the potential new Republican leaders in the Senate are even more shrill and partisan than the old ones, if that's possible. Coupled with a lack of experience and connection the future does not look good for Republicans for the time being. Can they get it back? Sure, but the calls to become even more partisan, obstructionist, and radically conservative don't bode well for that.

First thoughts: Another punch in the gut

Rock, Janesville,Wisconsin — Tue, 28 Oct 2008 14:19:54 GMT

The end of an era of Republican Party corruption on all levels of Government, hopefully will be ending on November 4. The idea that the "Dizzy Diva" is even giving anyone advice on "do the right thing" is a joke! The bottom line is! The Republicans in Congress, and the Senate have to be voted out. The Republican "do it yourselfer" mentality/philosophy is morally bankrupt, economically corrupt, politically divisionary, socially backwards, and ethically pathetic. It is time for change America! Vote early!

First thoughts: Another punch in the gut

Maryfern Virginia — Tue, 28 Oct 2008 14:20:07 GMT

Gov. Sarah Palin's signature accomplishment — a contract to build a pipeline to bring natural gas from Alaska to the Lower 48 — emerged from a flawed bidding process that narrowed the field to a company with ties to her administration, an AP investigation shows.Corruption? Who built her house and for how much?

First thoughts: Another punch in the gut

The Media — Tue, 28 Oct 2008 14:21:44 GMT

The Los Angeles Times has a video of Barack Obama toasting former PLO operative, Rashid Khalidi, at an Israel-bashing party that also included terrorists Bill Ayers and Bernardine Dohrn, they are now coming up with all sorts of absurd legalistic reasons as to why they can't release the video.

You think the Times sould release the tape if it was John McCain praising a supporter of the old South African apartheid government? In a heartbeat they would.

First thoughts: Another punch in the gut

Sheila Robinson, Baltimore, MD — Tue, 28 Oct 2008 14:22:21 GMT

Even though the polls are favoring Obama and other Democrats I firmly believe that this race is not over until ALL the votes are counted. Conspiracy theories abound about how the election could be stolen so I'll believe the results for president when the electoral votes are counted on 12/15.

It would be poetic justice if Georgia could do the right thing and elect a Democrat in place of Chambliss who treated Max Cleeland like yesterday's garbage instead of the war hero that he is.

FIXXNOISE is beating drums loudly today for the McCain campaign by continually referring to Obama as the "wealth redistributor". That moniker is not going to work and the McCain campaign managers should all be ashamed of themselves for running such a poor campaign. His only consistent message has been "let's call Barack Hussein Obama every negative name in the book and see if it resonates with the voters. Nice try guys. Shameful. Malpractice suits all around for, Nicole Wallace, Steve Schmidt,Randy Schuenermann (sic), Tucker Bounds, et al.

Barack Obama is NOT a terrorist, socialist, Marxist, Communist, Leninist, racist, Muslim, Atheist,________.

Unless the McCain campaign can provide proof beyond a reasonable doubt that Obama was responsible for 9/11 and Hurricane Katrina then I'm voting Obama/Biden.

First thoughts: Another punch in the gut

Chuck, Denver, CO — Tue, 28 Oct 2008 14:28:22 GMT

Let's hope that Colorado voters are paying attention to the implications of the state's "personhood" amendment -- Amendment 48. If the measure were to pass and an embryo is declared to be a person, a human being, the early end to any pregnancy would have to be investigated by law enforcement as a possible homicide. Just imagine where this would lead.

First thoughts: Another punch in the gut

John Alexander, Edinboro,PA — Tue, 28 Oct 2008 14:29:32 GMT

I heard Palin is coming to Erie Pa, no biggie she is welcome to do some shopping here, our economy could use an infusion of cash right now. On sunday we saw the PA stright talk express bus in the local Giant Eagle parking lot, everyone shopping ignored them and went about their daily business.
Obama signs are being stolen from peoles yards everyday, as soon as a McCain supported lost his signs he whinned to the media, poor baby, obama supporters just went out and got a new sign, stop whinning repubs your party has lost its way and we will guide our country back to the middle after yuor ideological train wreak
We're going to an Obama rally in Meadville today, gotta support the Best candidate.
We are sooooo tired of crooks wearing flags and claiming gods support for their hate filled message.
I don't think senator Obama can do all he promised but even one third of what he would do is better than four more years of the same old stuff.
Pragmatic and real that is what my vote for Obama represents, I am not afraid of our enemies, we will defeat them, I am afraid of the ugly american, the hate monger, the racist, the greedy who think money and power equal gods rightious support.
Pride before the fall people, read your scripture.
I am proud to see so many americans coming together to make REAL change, go Barak and Joe, no more Nixonian/Raygunesque division, we must be united to defeat terrorists and religious fanatics on both sides of the ocean.
Al Quida meet 'the base' conservatives, blood brothers in hate!

First thoughts: Another punch in the gut

Turning Blue in GA — Tue, 28 Oct 2008 14:30:31 GMT

Come on Sarah, give it up! Who are you going to vote for? Ted Stevens or Mark Begich?

First thoughts: Another punch in the gut

kenn — Tue, 28 Oct 2008 14:30:41 GMT

Look into your future cocky democrats DODD COUNRTYWIDE,hubris, know it all, both houses of congress, unlimited power MY WAY OR THE HIGHWAY Reporters being shunned. Reminds me of the last 8 years under the worst president in american history next to nixon.

First thoughts: Another punch in the gut

President Joe — Tue, 28 Oct 2008 14:30:59 GMT

With this tape of Obama and Ayers at a dinner in Chicago in 2003 giving farewell party at which Barack Obama lavished praise on the guest of honor, Rashid Khalidi — former mouthpiece for master terrorist Yasser Arafat, Obama may be the first president that is impeached before he's inaugerated.

First thoughts: Another punch in the gut

Mark, OH — Tue, 28 Oct 2008 14:34:19 GMT

I think the pundits are leaving out one very important and crucial factor in Obama's effort to expand the electoral map in 2008 --- and that is the next census is in 2010 --- which means that the electoral map will change in 2012.

We've already seen evidence of what may happen in the electoral vote distribution from 2000 to 2004. Bush would have won an additional 17 !!! electoral votes in 2000 under the 2004 map.

The shrinking Blue states continue to hemorrhage electoral votes and growing Red states continue to gain. It is imperative for Democrats to expand the map and not only make inroads into the West and the South, but establish a larger base from which to work in future elections.

First thoughts: Another punch in the gut

Ken, Concord, NH — Tue, 28 Oct 2008 14:37:39 GMT

Related to the Montana poll and your Fun Fact about Perot drawing 26% in Montana in 1992, does that NBC Poll include Ron Paul, whose name IS on the Montana ballot? Granted, he is not campaigning there, so he won't get anything near 26%, but he should draw between 4 and 8%, mostly from McCain (?).

First thoughts: Another punch in the gut

Is an embryo a person? — Tue, 28 Oct 2008 14:38:44 GMT

The definition of “personhood” in Colorado

If this passes, would pregnant mothers be guilty of giving alcohol to a minor if they had a sip? Would a pregnant woman have to pay for two tickets at a theater? Could the embryo be claimed as a dependent 9 months early?

A little dumb, but HOW MUCH of a person would an embryo be under this new definition?

First thoughts: Another punch in the gut

Steve, South Carolina — Tue, 28 Oct 2008 14:40:06 GMT

Well it's clear that McCain has halted Obama's momentum in NC and I think he's still favored in Montana. New Hampshire doesn't look good, though.

First thoughts: Another punch in the gut

Rick,Ky — Tue, 28 Oct 2008 14:41:04 GMT

One week out from election day, America.It's lasted longer than many of us wanted. I was an early opponent of Hillary & her willingness to have the Democratic party go thru a 50 state Primary, however, i'm totally convinced that it has made Barack much more competitive in places most never thought he'd be at this point. Indiana & North Carolina are prime examples, now we have Montana being in play to an extent.

The GOP have no one to Blame but themselves. They were given the keys to Government by the voter's back in 2000. What the GOP did in turn, was to Lock the Door's behind them & Forcefeed Religion, an Unneccasary War, Corruption at the highest level's & complete Incompetence in how to Govern. Now we have John Mccain yelling to his Follower's( yes Followoer's)that Democratic dominance in DC would somehow be Worse than what the GOP has shown they could Not do.

What Democratic dominance in DC will do is Restore Confidence & Oversight of all branches of Government, something the GOP could'nt or would'nt do. No more Karl Rove, Alberto Gonzales, Rumsfeild, Cheney etc, way of thinking, they & Only they have the answer's to what American's want or expect from their Government.

7 days, America & we'll finally be back on track !

Delusional Thinking By Commonsense American's Is Over !

First thoughts: Another punch in the gut

JILL — Tue, 28 Oct 2008 14:44:18 GMT

STEVENS REPLIES TO MCCAIN. YOU STEP DOWN FIRST !

First thoughts: Another punch in the gut

Weary of the Right, MT — Tue, 28 Oct 2008 14:44:38 GMT

Montana: 2 senators and governor are democrats; a state full of independents. 46th per capita income in the U.S; distrusting of both major parties, majority of youth leave the state so they can make a living. 2006 repub senator ousted- partly due to connections with Abramoff. Yes, a good chance for Obama here!

First thoughts: Another punch in the gut

Msierra, SF — Tue, 28 Oct 2008 14:45:03 GMT

'...one state is first among equals in the campaign's focus -- and that's an old reliable battleground state: Florida. ...'

Obama knows what he's doing....
But, I wish they'd focus on North Carolina and Georgia
They could help knock off two Senators:

Liddy Dole of north Carolina

and a REAL STINKER, Saxby Chambliss
Chambliss is a Viet Nam era draft dodger who smeared Senator Max Clewlland as being 'un-patriotic'
Cleland lost two legs and an arm in Viet Nam
Yet, Chambliss and Karl Rove smeared him

Payback would be SWEET for this draft dodger and coward

Obama / Biden '08
NOW'S the Time

First thoughts: Another punch in the gut

Stacey, Fort Loudon, PA — Tue, 28 Oct 2008 14:45:48 GMT

Palin wont even say she wont vote for someone that has been proven guilty of breaking government laws! Get her out of my face OFF MY TV! SHE MAKES ME WANT TO PUKE! IM TIRED OF HER LIES AND BS!!!!!She is as corrupt as the next! Who built and payed for her mansion??? Our tax dollars???

First thoughts: Another punch in the gut

Duh — Tue, 28 Oct 2008 14:48:00 GMT

"Do the right thing."
- Gov Palin

She would do well to heed her own advice. She was found guilty of abuse of power too.

First thoughts: Another punch in the gut

Ecurry, Chesapeake, VA — Tue, 28 Oct 2008 14:50:19 GMT

Like the actors said on SNL. "Our lead is solid... solid as Barack.. thats what our lead is... thats what we've got got got got got got got got!!!"

I keep hearing the Repubs trying to use the argument that we shouldn't have a one party government under the Dems. Why not? We had a one party government under the Repubs and look at the mess they made? If nothing else at least the Dems aren't hypocrites. For example Barney Frank is openly gay. Tom Foley on the other hand is a closet gay that like young boys yet he preaches family values.

"We the people" don't want perfect government, we just want honest government. I think thats what the Obama offers and its a breath of fresh air after 8 years of lies and fear mongering.

First thoughts: Another punch in the gut

D Iowan, Marion, IA — Tue, 28 Oct 2008 14:51:20 GMT

What? Another Republican involved in yet another scandal? And for a lousy $250K? Why, I know hockey moms who spend that much just to look good for Joe Six Pack. And Palin of course distances herself from the Senator from Alaska.

Good thing McCain was able to count on his war hero status to keep him from being convicted along with his old "pal" Keating or poor Sarah would have to disavow him too, because we all know what high standards she's maintained in her "transparent" administration.