First thoughts: A viewers' guide to tonight

Chuck, NY — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 14:54:55 GMT

Quiet Heroes

Yesterday, Barack sadly proclaimed that his grandmother was a quiet hero, and that across the nation there are many, many more like her. It matters not what be your political affiliation. It matters not what be your economic wealth, race, creed or religion. What matters is that you do vote. Be a quiet hero today and vote. Honor all of the quiet heroes who have given so much to us.

First thoughts: A viewers' guide to tonight

Nashville_fan — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 14:57:38 GMT

So here we finally are . . .

after the superdelegates endorsed,
and
the voters were classified,
and
the funds were raised,
and
the attendance records were broken,
and
the lies were told (and repeated),
and
the hopes were raised (and dashed),
and
the vice presidents were selected,
and
the biases were exposed,
and
the jokes were told . . .

The time has finally come to VOTE!

May God bless and keep this great country. May we all unite behind our new President.

Thanks for the opportunity to share my thoughts this election season – it has been an honor. And thanks for all the insights from the other posters here – we may not always agree, but I love you all anyway. (And yes that includes you J. Merle! *muah* )

Oh yeah, for those of you who are still undecided . . . here’s a tip:

Obama/Biden ‘08/’12!

First thoughts: A viewers' guide to tonight

the Pajama Pundit — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 14:58:00 GMT

While the presidential contest has lasted some 20-plus months, it’s once again worth emphasizing how short -- by comparison -- the general election has been.
******************************************************

And ironically, in retrospect, these five months seem to have taken sooo much longer than the first 15 months. I can't wait until this thing is decided.

http://thepajamapundit.com/

First thoughts: A viewers' guide to tonight

MartaFL — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 14:58:27 GMT

I just hope that ALL votes are counted this time no matter how long it takes; that no vote flipping software has been deployed in the now notorious swing states; that there is no legal wrangling involving the Courts afterwards to determine the winner; and that no matter WHO wins, the people of this country can remain calm and rational in the aftermath.

First thoughts: A viewers' guide to tonight

Pat, Boston, MA — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 15:01:32 GMT

Tuesday, November 4, 2008 – Election Day
A Little History On This Historic Day in America
Election Season, 19th Century Style

Over the course of 100 days in the fall of 1896, William Jennings Bryan gave more than 500 speeches. He was the Democratic nominee, and his presidential campaign was so broke, he took his message directly to just about every Midwestern town with a train station and a soapbox. Several million people showed up.
He was a fantastic orator. Picture him with 10,000 screaming Nebraskans behind him, and you can imagine what his Republican rival was up against.
"You had William McKinley," says historian Jennifer Burns, "who knew right away that he was going to lose in any head-to-head battle if it came down to personality [and] oratory.
"[McKinley] said, 'I might as well put a trapeze on my front lawn and go against a professional gymnast if I go up against Bryan.'" So he didn't.
While Bryan thrilling crowds with his charisma and his rousing speechifying, McKinley relied on a well-funded, highly-skilled network of political operatives and entrenched party loyalists. Then he just sat back and let the machine work for him.
"He simply sat on his front porch," says Burns, "and let people come to him."
Welcome to the world of pre-modern presidential campaigns. A time when, if you wanted to know what William McKinley or James Garfield or Benjamin Harrison thought about trade policy or international affairs, you could literally get some friends together, knock on the candidate's front door and ask him. But he wasn't going to come to you.
"It was essentially this idea that you were trying too hard," says Burns. "If you want the presidency, there was something inherently problematic about that."
Historian Edward J. Larson says that for more than a century, thanks to our first president, there was this idea that the office should seek the man. The man should not seek the office.
"George Washington came from the Virginia elite," says Larson, "where people stood for office, at the call of the people, where it was improper to campaign."
This was easy for George Washington. Because, he was George Washington. But after him, if you wanted to appear presidential, you wanted to appear Washingtonian. It became bad form to go out and let people know you actually wanted the job.
But behind the scenes, they campaigned a lot, Larson says.
As early as 1800, rivals Thomas Jefferson and John Adams were writing anonymous articles disparaging each other. They set up partisan newspapers and paid people to write smear articles. Their campaign committees were inventing the American election: they had people canvassing for votes and bringing people to the polls.
In New York, Jefferson's future vice president, Aaron Burr, was circumventing the rule that only people who owned land could cast ballots.
"He'd buy a small tract of land," says Larson, "and put it in the names of 400, 500, 1,000 immigrants. And suddenly, they'd all be property owners so they could all vote."
Historian Burns says, "if a presidential candidate were more passive, that doesn't mean that presidential campaigns weren't full of passion. They were full of conflict and ... partisan rumor and innuendos and aspersions on the candidates' sexual lives. Mudslinging is absolutely nothing new in the American political system." The voting public hung on every bit of news. The white, landholding, male voting public loved it.
Michael Holt, a history teacher at the University of Virginia, says elections were fun. "There was a lot of folderol and hurrah techniques and mass meetings and swilling the electorate with hard cider and whiskey and all this."
Burns points out that it's not like these people had anything better to do. "If you think about what the entertainment options were at that time," she says, "there weren't many. There were no movies, no TV. So it was a huge party. People would come and vote and get drunk."
Turnout was often incredibly high. More than 80 percent of the electorate voted in 1876, despite the fact that the candidates never personally stumped for votes or went on Leno.
Michael Holt says the presidents of the past would never believe what is required of today's candidates. "The personal campaigning would leave most 19th century presidential hopefuls dumbstruck," he says.
But, Holt adds, the electorate is better off now than it was a century ago. During the campaigning today, you see the candidates in all sorts of situations and under extreme pressure. You get a sense of what they might be like as president.
"Demands on the modern candidate are so intense: being so exposed, having your every word, thought, emotional moment parsed on national television and repeated endlessly on the Internet," Burns agrees.
She also wonders if we're entirely past the notion that we want the office to seek the man or woman, and not the other way around. After all, the type of person who can withstand that scrutiny is perhaps what Americans of the past generation were afraid of. It's someone who really wants power and prestige, because only someone who's really ambitious will subject themselves to that sort of treatment.
By: Nate DiMeo, February 2008

First thoughts: A viewers' guide to tonight

Mia in Miami — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 15:01:54 GMT

The "swing" states are haveing voter machine problems already. Mainly in Virginia...I see troubles! We cannot afford to have this election stolen like 2000.

First thoughts: A viewers' guide to tonight

sotiredofignorance — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 15:02:03 GMT

I'm leaving to vote at my Town Hall now. It is an old schoolhouse, and an amazing place to vote. You can feel America inside those old walls.

Will be watching and listening to the results.

Happy birthday to my now 21 year old son! Congratulations on voting in your first Presidential race.

First thoughts: A viewers' guide to tonight

Bailey Quarters, Mpls, MN — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 15:02:26 GMT

Today is the day! To all those whose posts I have enjoyed, thank you. I'm gonna forget names, I'm sorry. Libratine, Jawillie, Erik from Mechanicsburg, Pat in Huntington, vote! Thanks to you, too, First Read. This is our time! I'm off to the polling place now but as I cast my ballot for hope, I'll be thinking of how we stood by our man when others sought to bring him down. Si se puede!

First thoughts: A viewers' guide to tonight

Eric, Salinas, CA — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 15:03:13 GMT

Thanks First Read crew for such a wonderful campaign season. First Read is the best place for us to come to read great articles and be able to get our reader comments posted. Thanks to all the Obama supporters for hanging tough and defending our Hero!

I am so stoked to be able to go vote in a few minutes here in sunny California! I am so going to enjoy watching the results tonight. I really enjoyed David Shuster doing a late night show last night to bring us the great news that the first NH town went for Obama for the first time in 40 years voting for a Democrat over the repugnant ones.

Go Obama/Biden 08/12!

First thoughts: A viewers' guide to tonight

Tue, 04 Nov 2008 15:03:14 GMT

GOOD MORNING AMERICA ! TODAY IS THE DAY , TODAY IS THE DAY WE STOP THE WAR IN IRAQ, TODAY IS THE DAY WE DEMAND HEALTH CARE FOR ALL AMERICANS, TODAY IS THE DAY WE GET SOME TAX RELIEF, TODAY IS THE DAY WE START WORKING ON "TRUE" ENERGY INDEPENDENCE, TODAY IS THE DAY WE START PROVIDING HIGHER EDUCATION TO "ALL" AMERICANS, TODAY IS THE DAY WE START CLEANING UP THE OFFICE OF ATTORNEY GENERAL, TODAY IS THE DAY WE START REBUILDING OUR NATION, TODAY IS THE DAY POLITICS AS USUAL HAS CHANGED FOREVER, TODAY IS THE DAY THE REPUBLICAN PARTY PAYS FOR ALL IT'S CORRUPTION OVER THE LAST 8 YEARS, TODAY IS THE DAY AND TOMORROW WE WELCOME THE "CHANGE".

First thoughts: A viewers' guide to tonight

Paul Miller, Woodbridge, VA — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 15:05:37 GMT

Dixville Notch goes for Obama 15-6 - sounds like change is coming there, and probably to neighboring Hogwaller Meadows, too.

First thoughts: A viewers' guide to tonight

Ms Jenny — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 15:06:05 GMT

I just voted for OBAMA/BIDEN in MA!

R.I.P. Grandma Dunham! Your grandson is about to become the first black President of the United States! You did an amazing job in helping to raise Barack, and we know he will make an excellent leader!

First thoughts: A viewers' guide to tonight

Eric, Salinas, CA — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 15:08:32 GMT

It's Redemption Day for us Democrats who have waited 4 years for this wonderful day. After two election cycles of Revenge of the Sith we finally have Return of the Jedi! Oh Happy Days we have overcome the ignorance, fear and smear with intelligence and grace. It's Judgment Day for McNasty and his Wicked Witch and they will be cast out by Mainstream America!

I am so looking forward to McNasty's concession speech and Obama victory speech. I'm sure that Barack will deliver yet another great speech tonight.

What a despicable desperate fool McNasty is trying to campaign when people should be voting. I guess he wants one more day of adoring crowds. Tomorrow he'll be suffering from Attention Deficit Disorder as the press leaves the loser in the dust to go interview the winner. On the bright side McNasty can go back to the Senate and nap in peace.

Go Obama/Biden 08/12!

First thoughts: A viewers' guide to tonight

Broke in Florida — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 15:08:39 GMT

Yes, only 77 more days until Obama/Biden take office ! Change is just around the corner, let's keep walking it the correct direction. Obama/Biden '08

First thoughts: A viewers' guide to tonight

Louis F., Chicago, IL — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 15:10:18 GMT

Billion $ Dollar Party at Grant Park tonight! Barack is sparing no expense in throwing a party we'll never forget on a historic night. There will be food, drink, entertainment for all who come. Be there tonight. Come early for best areas.

First thoughts: A viewers' guide to tonight

fair game. — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 15:10:54 GMT

Just watch Fox News. They have all the answers and accurate info.

First thoughts: A viewers' guide to tonight

Eric, Salinas, CA — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 15:13:34 GMT

Nah Nah Nah Nah, Hey Hey Goodbye! Yes Goodbye McNasty and his Wicked Witch of Alaska. Good riddance!

Now it's time for the repugnant ones to Wail Baby Wail! It will be so much fun watching the repugnant ones casting blame at each other. I'm sure the misguided McCainiacs will still whine one more day here but then will get lost here at First Read, the Best Place for Politics on the Web!

Yippee it's time for me to go vote for Obama and all the Democrats and to vote against Prop Hate! I will be so glad when that disgusting Prop Hate ad comes down from First Read's front page.

Win One in Memorial to "Toot"!
Go Obama/Biden 08/12!

First thoughts: A viewers' guide to tonight

Proud Voter, staunton,va — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 15:14:44 GMT

Lines in Staunton, Virginia are longer than I have ever seen. We are a small town in the valley that usually goes Republican; maybe we can change too.

First thoughts: A viewers' guide to tonight

Amy B Portland, ME — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 15:15:34 GMT

Three of the women in my office are voting for McCain. Why? Their fathers were Republicans, or their husbands tell them how to vote. None of them watched the primary or Presidential debates. When I asked one of them if she was at all worried if the 72 year old McCain dies in office and Palin assumes the presidency she said she "didn't know much about Sarah Palin." These folks don't care enough about politics to think about the issues, but, by golly, they are patriotic enough they always vote! This is what we are up against: the No Nothing Voter. Pray to God enough African Americans vote, enough young Americans, enough moderately open minded voters, otherwise this country is going down the tubes due to a large mass of nice, but not too bright, American voters.

First thoughts: A viewers' guide to tonight

Michelle Zee — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 15:15:39 GMT

This election year has been a roller coaster ride and I have really enjoyed MSNBC, including Pat B. and Joe Scarborough (LOL).

This blog has provided an outlet to the daily madness and my fellow bloggers have made this election very memorable..there are so many I can't name everyone!

I did not begin watching MSNBC until this election. No matter how this election turns out (let me retract) hopefully Obama wins, MSNBC has won this viewer and my family across the US for life.

Thanks MSNBC, especially Keith O, Chris M., and Rachel Maddow!

I am curious though, I KINDA' figured Chris M. was a republican, but I can't help but think he voted for
"THAT ONE"????

First thoughts: A viewers' guide to tonight

J May — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 15:15:47 GMT

First Read's coverage of the campaign has been valuable in this election. One comment in this post, however, reveals a lot about what's been increasingly wrong with media coverage of elections and elections themselves (which are more related than ever) over the past three decades. "...it’s once again worth emphasizing how short -- by comparison -- the general election has been. In fact, today marks exactly five months since the day the general election officially began.." Compared to just about any other democracy, this is an extraordinarily long campaign season. And for all it's length, we don't get a very deep or informed discussion of the issues. The media, with its obsession with soundbites and sensational scandalgates and general disinterest in context, analysis or historical perspective, must take its share of the blame for this. This election has been a little better, but this has largely been because two campaigns have (for the most part) resisted attempts to trivialize the issues and the election. Americans should demand better.

First thoughts: A viewers' guide to tonight

David, Baltimore, MD — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 15:15:53 GMT

John McCain is a dishonorable man running a dishonorable campaign. His actions have proven him to be both unpatriotic and unAmerican. Let's review McCain's sad history.

In the Navy he did not take flight training seriously and while hotdogging he crashed four multi-million dollar jets.

He participated with his North Vietanese captors in anti-aAmerican radio broadcasts calling himself a war criminal.

He cheated on his first beauty-queen wife after she became disabled and everntually divorced her to marry another beauty-queen second wife who was rich.

He tried to protect Charles Keating as part of the Keating Five.

He palled around with domestic terrorists like G. Gordon Liddy and communists such his North Vietnamese jailer, who has endorsed his presidential run.

Selected the unqualifed Sarah Palin to be his running while her husband was a member of a political party that wants to rip a star from the American flag creating a new nation and Sarah Palin never condemned that group.

John McCain is too to unAmerican to be president

First thoughts: A viewers' guide to tonight

Ahleed Malak, NY — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 15:16:22 GMT

Spread the word. RNC has a plan for a massive voter turn out that has their people coming out in force after 4PM EST today. I got a copy of the text message email that was sent late last night. It's a plan to throw the early polls off. Keep your eyes open after 4 today. Nick name Rope A Dope.

First thoughts: A viewers' guide to tonight

Full Moon — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 15:17:47 GMT

"Rich people are simply a better demographic of people. The middle-class and the poor...I don't give a crap about them." - John McCain.

First thoughts: A viewers' guide to tonight

Seattle Sue — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 15:19:39 GMT

The "conservative" Full Moon has won my heart.

First thoughts: A viewers' guide to tonight

Mitchell Feldman, Vestal, NY — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 15:20:07 GMT

I just proudly cast my vote for Barack Obama! Not only did I vote for a man whom I respect and admire; a man who first manifest honesty and brilliance with his Hyde Park speech on Oct. 2002, but I was able to cast a vote against the most misdirected and disingenuous administration (of GW Bush) in my lifetime. It was a joyous occasion for me and I am cautiously optimistic. My prayers are with the new president; he has a seemingly insurmountable challenge ahead.
Obama/Biden '08

First thoughts: A viewers' guide to tonight

Mitchell Feldman, Vestal, NY — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 15:20:16 GMT

First thoughts: A viewers' guide to tonight

Teri Sel, WI — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 15:20:44 GMT

Whichever candidate wins or loses tonight -- I hope and pray for civility. We support Obama - but my children have come home from school with awful messages from kids saying - "I hate Obama", "Obama is a terrorist", "If you are a real Christian you would be supporting McCain" "Obama kills babies" -- We have our children learn as much as they can about the issues, encourage them to look at all sides and try to promote tolerance. I'm so sad that other parents don't do that - and I'm sad for our country that so much hate has been promoted through this election process. Again I hope and pray for civility with whatever outcome. We are all Americans and love our country, and part of our strength comes in the diversity of our views and the ability to disagree in a respectful way. That's what America and Patriotism should be about.

First thoughts: A viewers' guide to tonight

Gerri of PA — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 15:21:45 GMT

I voted this morning and I still have goose bumps. I'm so overwhelmed to have voted for Barack Obama, the most intelligent person ever to run for POTUS. I'm especially proud that he is an African American, and I'll will cherish my vote this election for years to come.

God Bless the United States of America....

First thoughts: A viewers' guide to tonight

Angela Johnson, Richmond Virginia — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 15:24:25 GMT

I voted for Barack Obama this morning. I was so proud this morning when I arrived at my voting precinct in Richmond, Va at 5:30am to find that there was a line around the block. In my 19 years in living in the eastend(city), this precinct has never had a line to stretch outside the building not to mention down the street and around the block in the "rain". People are serious about the direction they want our country to go. There were young and old in the rain. Majority of the people were African American. It took me 2 hours to actually vote. God Bless America.

First thoughts: A viewers' guide to tonight

Maurice Graham, OH — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 15:43:44 GMT

Z, Explain what you feel to be the corruption specifically, from your first hand knowledge. We would all like to know. Ready, set, GO.

First thoughts: A viewers' guide to tonight

jerry/corpus christi texas — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 15:45:25 GMT

With Obama announcing that he will bankrupt the coal industry, one has to wonder how many more people will lose their jobs.

So much for that free money that Obama promised the lazy people. They will have to use that money to pay the ever rising electric bills that will be given to them courtsey of BHO.

First thoughts: A viewers' guide to tonight

Hillary Lane, Tampa, FL — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 15:45:40 GMT

Ask yourself truthfully if you benefited at all from the Bush dependent deduction amount increases, the 2 stimulus checks sent to all of us (1st Term and 2nd Term) (except the rich) and the tax decrease on all Americans he inacted during his first term. His quick and powerful response to the Terror Attacks on America in 2001, less than a year after he was in office. I know there are many things that can be pointed out that have not gone as desired but like Bill Clinton, who saw passage of NAFTA which allowed jobs to begin moving out of America, he did many good things too that have been overlooked. We are victims of a flash and burn society with little tolerance for anything, very long. Whoever our new President is, he will find himself in the same situation before the end of his first term. No room for error in this society.

First thoughts: A viewers' guide to tonight

J. Ellis, Virginia — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 15:46:39 GMT

726 Days - Seems like a lifetime ago.

My heart goes out to Sen Obama and I look back at these past 21 months with much pride and gratitude for this man who has withstood so much.

He was not able to breath a sigh of relief after capturing the nomination of the Democratic party due to the drawn out primary and having to jump right into the general election fray. He was not able to fully savor the nomination of his party at the convention due to McCain announcing Sarah Palin immediatly following the convention to purposely squelch any "bounce" Obama may get. Now, on the eve of Election Day, he has to look back on it with bittersweetness due to the death of his beloved grandmother.

There are no coincidences, however, and all the circumstances that he has seen, will shape and mold him into a most fabulous president. His grandfather, grandmother, mother and father would be so proud and amazed at all that he has accomplished in these past 726 days.

GOD BLESS YOU, PRESIDENT OBAMA

First thoughts: A viewers' guide to tonight

TOM TYSKIEWICZ, FOREST HILLS, PA — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 15:46:53 GMT

HOPEFULLY AMERICAN VOTERS WILL SEND BUSH,ETAL. AND THE G.O.P. TO THE DUSTBIN OF HISTORY.

First thoughts: A viewers' guide to tonight

Woman Voter in Minnesota — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 15:54:09 GMT

Voted for Obama in Minnesota this morning! Can't wait until tomorrow (or earlier?) when they call the election for Obama. I will be nervous about Republican shenanigans until then. Hoping Franken can defeat Coleman here in MN -- it will be very close.

First thoughts: A viewers' guide to tonight

Kevin , Denton, Tx — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 15:56:06 GMT

I am so full of JOY at this moment in time... I want to thank all for participating in this glorious democracy of ours, no matter what side you're on. And to David, Anders, Tx : you need to take your abject racist ass and do us all a favor by jumping off a cliff somewhere... There is no need in this world for your brand of racist b.s., Democrat or Republican. You'll get yours when it is time to meet your maker. Enjoy.

First thoughts: A viewers' guide to tonight

Joe, MN — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 15:56:15 GMT

Just voted for Barack, Franken and McCullum in MN!!! It felt great! Good weather too. Unseasonably warm, inside and out. :) My heart was warmed by the sight of so many enthusiastic Obama supporters exercising their right to vote.

The line for me was 1.5 hrs. long just to get into the polling place, but from there -- no proboems. The ballots we used were easy to read and clear to understand. No confusing candidate name placement, hanging chads, or butterflies...lol. You simply marked your own ballot with a pen, then went and physically place your paper ballot into a machine that counted it. It is a great system because it is simple and has worked well for years! The only thing "electronic" about the whole process was the scanner that counted the votes as it accepted the completed ballots. Voters literally marked their own ballot by hand -- as it should be! Remember the old saying, "Have a hand in electing your next President"? That line literally comes from the age old tradition in our country of "hand marking your ballots, and then putting them in the box yourself" -- having a direct hand in the process, in a physical sense of the word. OK, the box has changed a little bit because now it counts the votes automatically, but for the most part, the system remains unchanged. It worked just fine all this time. We don't need electronic voting machines to figure out how to mark our own choices.

First thoughts: A viewers' guide to tonight

Utahn for Obama — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 15:57:00 GMT

I proudly cast my ballot for Obama/Biden at 7:30 AM MST in Logan, UT. It was the first time I had used electronic voting machines, everything was running smoothly and the poll workers were working hard.

First thoughts: A viewers' guide to tonight

Rick ( Hussein), Ky — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 15:59:23 GMT

First of all, i'd like to Thank the reporters at & associated with 1st Read for allowing us the oppurtunity to put our thought's into word's for everyone to comment on. America is such a wonderful country(i'm sure other country's are also).

From here in Rural Kentucky, i say Thank You to all of the Barack Obama supporter's for helping express our reasons for wanting to Elect him as Our President.It's been a great Joy being able to converse with ordinary people from all walks of life.

Its been an extra long journey getting to today & hopefully our effort's will pay off in Victory for our candidate. We've done all we can do, now go Vote, so we can begin writing a new chapter for America.

Delusional Thinking By Commonsense American's Is Over !

Barack Hussein Obama, The Next President of The United States Of America !

First thoughts: A viewers' guide to tonight

Donna-Charlottesville, VA — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 15:59:31 GMT

Thank you Toot... your amazing grandson is going to make a wonderful president. I know that with a President Obama families across this great country will once again feel like they're a part of government. After all, without a solid middle class there are fewer and fewer to purchase the goods and services of the upper 2%.

A President Obama will restore The United States to its leader of the free world status.

SO ANYONE WHO HASN'T VOTED, GO VOTE... IT'S IMPORTANT.

OBAMA/BIDEN 08-12

First thoughts: A viewers' guide to tonight

RD, ALEXANDRIA,VA — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 15:59:49 GMT

TODAY IS THE DAY!!!! AMERICA FINALLY RETURNS TO ITS ROOTS AND VOTES FOR A TRUE STATYESMAN FOR ITS PRESIDENT!!! BARACK'S GRANDMOTHER DID GOOD!!!

MY WIFE AND I VOTED FOR OBAMA/BIDEN!!!!

A HARDCORE, RABID REPUBLICAN, FAT, OLD, SUCCESSFUL, PREJUDICED WHITE GUY FOR OBAMA/BIDEN

First thoughts: A viewers' guide to tonight

John B, Des Moines, IA — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 16:01:33 GMT

Thank you FR, you've posted and linked to vast amounts of information, sifted through untold thousands of posts, taken a fair amount of complaints, a few of them from me, all on top of the other things you do in and out of electoral season. Thank you posters, who have shared your thoughts, contributed additional links and information, and been mostly respectful of others even when you disagree. You have made it worth tolerating the few hateful, bitter, deceitful rants, some of which will no doubt appear on this thread as well. Thank you to voters, who are turning out in amazing numbers in spite of those who work to decrease turnout, hoping their parochial interests will prevail if they can just get "their" voters to the polls while the "other side" statys home. We are Americans. We disagree, sometimes strongly, but people in this country overwhelmingly feel that what's best for the nation will ultimately be better for them personally. That's why we watch this process, that's why we vote, and that's why we'll all be watching for those in office to do the right thing as they take office and resume the people's business.

First thoughts: A viewers' guide to tonight

Georgia — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 16:01:37 GMT

Last I checked America was the land of opportunity not the land of sit on your butt and let others pay your way. No where does the Constitution state that your have the right to be GIVEN money for nothing. No where does it say that you have the right to have the GOVERNMENT pay your way. Everyone believes CHANGE is coming….DO you really want to be the AMERICA of hand outs and free loaders? I don’t think this is the AMERICA that our Founding Fathers would be proud of!!!

MCCAIN 2008!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

First thoughts: A viewers' guide to tonight

Paul Bell, Ellensburg, WA — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 16:03:18 GMT

Does anybody know what time the Tom Brokaw is doing the Tim Russart Toast? We orderd a few cases of rolling rock for tonights celibration just to join in and toast his memory, I just wanted to know so we can have them in peoples hands at the approriate time. I don't want a mad dash to the bar when it starts and have people miss out.

First thoughts: A viewers' guide to tonight

Broke in Florida — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 16:04:11 GMT

It's all you need to know... Florida will go to Obama.

First thoughts: A viewers' guide to tonight

just the facts — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 16:04:34 GMT

Everyone that is an Obama supporter... its imperative to vote NOW!!! If you turn out, it'll be hard to steal this election. Get out and vote... it matters. Your vote does count and you'll make a huge difference.

First thoughts: A viewers' guide to tonight

njwolverine — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 16:07:31 GMT

On certain conservative blogs, it has been reported that the McCain campaign has summoned back to polling precincts GOTV staff with the expectation that they need to plan on pulling all nighters at those locations. Speculation is that early exit polling -- yes, I know, it's inherently unreliable -- suggests a very tight race that will not be called tonight.

Anyone hear anything similar?

First thoughts: A viewers' guide to tonight

Cheryl, New York City — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 16:08:40 GMT

"We spent more time deciding the nominees than deciding the president. [Is] that a good thing?"

Absolutely. During the primary season, we make decisions based on which problems we want the candidates to address and how. We identify, as a party, what we think is important and decide who we believe has the best plan to address these issues and the best chance to convince the most voters in the general election. This should take more time since we are trying to build a (more-or-less) unified consensus from millions of individuals, each with their unique set of concerns.

Once the party nominees are settled, it is a matter of Ideology: which party has defined the nation's needs more clearly and accurately, and which party's nominee has the pulse of the majority of the nation on which are THE issues and what is THE best path to follow.

It is rather similar to deciding on a place to live: the primary season is where we decide the state, town, neighborhood, and define our price-range. The general election is where we pick a specific house or apartment.

The mid-term election is where we refinance for a better interest rate (or to try to avoid bankruptcy).

First thoughts: A viewers' guide to tonight

Iowa-Military Mom — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 16:10:09 GMT

My Vote goes to Obama/Biden - So sad that Mrs. Dunham did not live long enough to see her beloved grandson become the next president of the United States - Welcome President Obama!!!!!

First thoughts: A viewers' guide to tonight

Steve, New York, NY — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 16:10:28 GMT

I worry about this country.

I worry that political discussions have detiorated to exchanges of hateful epithets.

I worry that bloggers, in supporting their candidate can only spout hate about the oppoent while never mentioning their own candidate.

I worry that elections are won, not by who votes, but by who doesn't vote or is not allowed to vote.

But I am certain that this problem will not be remedied by who wins the elections. No. The problem can only be remedied by us. We need to restore the honor of our country and our democracy by honoring everyone's opinion and defending everyone's right to vote-- not just those who agree with us.

I have followed this posting board judiciously for the past 6-8 weeks and have been often encouraged but just as often frustrated and appalled by some of the posting.

I give kudos (and thanks) to you who have elevated the discussion to a level of inspiration and thoughtfulness and I challenge those who have not to find a way to join the human race-- because I worry that a nation so divided can never see it's population achieve the promises it offers.

First thoughts: A viewers' guide to tonight

Guilvert — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 16:13:26 GMT

Today is the day!! I want say thanks to all the participants that post opinions for the last few months, we may not agree on the issues or the candidate, but at the end we are all Americans, and regardless who win, tomorrow the sun will rise and we still be Americans. I'm off to vote in a small school in Vermont with my wife and son, I'm exited and full of hope. Our next president will endure many tasks, but I'm sure that as we always done in the pass, we will succeed. Kudos to both candidates for putting themselves in front of the fire squat. Good bye to all, be back in 4 years (if I'm still alive) and god bless America
Guilvert (retire sergeant Us Army)…. go Obama

First thoughts: A viewers' guide to tonight

I feel lucky — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 16:15:01 GMT

Just voted here in AZ for the only real candidate:
Barrack Obama.
This one was for "Tout" and the world at large.
Stood in line about 20 minutes.
I'm feeling lucky today!

First thoughts: A viewers' guide to tonight

sbv creswell, oregon — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 16:16:41 GMT

in reading these posts, i have done time and time and time again over the course of this campaign; i am once again struck by the goodness, goodwill and love of country of the american people. i am amazed how the republicans have sought to divide us by fear, innuendo, lies and distortions, while sen. obama has spoken of hope and inclusion and decency. truly this has been the first 21st century campaign and not just by the mechanics of it. as i have canvassed for sen.obama and while i have read the posts to countless blogs including this one, i have concluded this election has shown us the divide between those who have worked hard to achieve through education,training and perseverance a future for themselves and their families and those who only want to deny history and the progression of a changing world, to return to the 1950's of the 20th century. the times they are a changin' GOTV obama/biden08. thanks first read, i have enjoyed arguing with you through this campaign, be well.

First thoughts: A viewers' guide to tonight

Guilvert — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 16:17:17 GMT

First thoughts: A viewers' guide to tonight

Paul Pharo, Cincinnati, Oh — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 16:17:20 GMT

Good luck stopping the war in Iraq with the snap of a finger...people are going to be very disappointed when the war is still going on in 2011. MCCAIN IN '08
Say NO TO SOCIALISM

First thoughts: A viewers' guide to tonight

Osama Loves Obama — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 16:17:38 GMT

I bet Obama will be glad he does not have to pretend he doesn't associate with the Racist Reverend Wright, Bill Ayers, etc,.....after today. Now if you excuse me, I am going to go and cling to my guns and religion.

First thoughts: A viewers' guide to tonight

Georgia — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 16:18:33 GMT

First thoughts: A viewers' guide to tonight

Jeremy Vaeni, New York, NY — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 16:19:41 GMT

So the headline is "A Junkie's Guide to Tonight's Results" and the photo slide show is all black people. Interesting choice, MSNBC, interesting choice.

First thoughts: A viewers' guide to tonight

Cyd, Birmingham, AL — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 16:20:58 GMT

No matter who wins this presidential election, I want everyone to remember what Obama has said: " We can disagree without being disagreeable." We should all commit to raising the level of discourse in this country, whether it be political or personal. Let us treat each other with respect and not demonize the other side.........Yes we can!

First thoughts: A viewers' guide to tonight

Mary Wittler Marquette, MI — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 16:21:31 GMT

Watching tonight, I will surely miss the presence of Tim Russert, but I wouldn't be without Chuck Todd. He has been the man to make sense out of the seemingly senselessness of the numbers. I want him to be the one to tell me, that our voice for change has been heard. Thanks to NBC for making this race watchable.

First thoughts: A viewers' guide to tonight

MWILSEY, ALBANY, NY — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 16:22:37 GMT

My vote is for That One - and it has already been cast - first thing this morning!! We need Obama for many reasons - not the least of which is to help unite our country and display to the world the good side of America.

We need to truly be One Nation and we need to put an end to the devisiveness that has hurt us - to whit see the comment several up from this one by David Sanders of Texas - and I quote "ARE YOU READY TO SHARE YOUR PAYCHECK WITH THE WELFARE JUNGLE BUNNIES=GET READY" - this is the type of thinking that keeps us divided and must stop. In the first place it is disrespectful to our African-American citizens and in the second place Obama's platform is being twisted with the statement as a whole.

Let us join together as One Nation and stop the racism dead in it's tracks - that I truly believe is one of the important things that will come from an Obama presidency.

Go OBAMA/BIDEN '08/'12!!

First thoughts: A viewers' guide to tonight

will, roswell, ga — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 16:25:04 GMT

A Viewing Guide for Today:

Go figure; my regressive Red(neck) state of GA's GOP PACK has bought up ALL of the available CNN advertising time to place their last ditch gutter ads about Obama's minister - it's no wonder that elitism is discouraged and ignorance is celebrated in our Red States.... ignorance really is bliss!

First thoughts: A viewers' guide to tonight

P.Ruiz, Largo, Maryland — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 16:26:09 GMT

I arrived at my polling place @ 5:40 a.m. and became physically excited to find the line already around the building...as the people kept pouring in, no one stopped and looked at the line in disgust; they came ready for this historical day and stood there proudly. We conversed gleefully with strangers; our neighbors. I observed the faces of elderly people beam with pride as mine did when I observed teenagers stand in the line and participate in history. This is happening in my lifetime. I have never been so proud in my life.

First thoughts: A viewers' guide to tonight

Soon 2 b broke, Screwed, LEGAL American — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 16:27:38 GMT

Well you should welcome the change. Because that's all you'll have left after your money goes to the career welfare people. Share the Wealth!
ALl this new spending Obama wants to do and you think you wont see your taxes increase? Not to mention sleepovers at the White House with America haters...
Great "Change"....

First thoughts: A viewers' guide to tonight

Frederick Payton — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 16:29:28 GMT

I'm very scared about the outcome of this election, no matter which way it goes. The media has already coronated Obama. They chose our president...not us. The voices of the few have been heard, magnified over the airwaves, and counted. Opinions have been swayed by the media monster, lies have been told, facts ignored. Ignorance abounds at the polling places, as the sheep go to the shearing. It's interesting to see people so convinced that they are voting for change, and all they are voting for is hype and the media's favorite, and it's all for "history in the making" ratings sake.

First thoughts: A viewers' guide to tonight

Peter , NY NY — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 16:30:08 GMT

Wasn't there some of agreement with the networks on calling Eastern States before Western polls closed???? I can't see how that would not influence western states voting if they were calling landslides or close contests in the East. Can anyone clarify if this was the case. Thanks

First thoughts: A viewers' guide to tonight

Robert — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 16:31:15 GMT

Are there any white people voting? Every photo I see has lines of black voters. I find this very strange.

First thoughts: A viewers' guide to tonight

Paul Pharo, Cincinnati, Oh — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 16:32:15 GMT

Good luck stopping the war in Iraq with the snap of a finger...people are going to be very disappointed when the war is still going on in 2011. MCCAIN IN '08
Say NO TO SOCIALISM

First thoughts: A viewers' guide to tonight

Scott Rash, Rock Hill, SC — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 16:32:29 GMT

I am 35 years old and just voted for the 1st time in my life today.
A man in line told me its a shame all these new voters are allowed to vote in this election, because in his opinion only tax payers and "land owners" should be allowed to vote"
my reply, "Thank God everyone gets an opinion"

btw, I voted Obama :)

First thoughts: A viewers' guide to tonight

Joe Washington — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 16:33:57 GMT

Just voted for Obama in norther VA. 10 min , in and out. No Fuss.

I am praying that the polling data is correct this time. Will be an icing on cake if Obama wins Ohio and Florida on his way to victory.

First thoughts: A viewers' guide to tonight

Nobama, Worcester, MA. — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 16:35:09 GMT

ObamaNation.

First thoughts: A viewers' guide to tonight

M.Oglesby Washington, DC — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 16:35:10 GMT

To: My friends & fellow citizens,

I hope this note finds you all in good health spiritually and mentally (mentally part is very important to Democrats’) because tomorrow we set course on the most important mission as Americans. So I would like to leave you with some words of wisdom in this very significant endeavor that GOD has laid in our hearts!

‘The foundation of our national policy will be laid in the pure and immutable principles of private morality, and the preeminence of free government will be exemplified by all the attributes which can win the affections of its citizens and command the respect of the world’.

George Washington, 1776

First thoughts: A viewers' guide to tonight

McCAIN VOTERS 'WEST of the MISSISSIPPI' --- VOTE EARLY! — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 16:37:06 GMT

""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""

McCAIN VOTERS 'WEST of the MISSISSIPPI' --- DON'T RELY ON EARLY TV RESULTS ...

GET OUT AND VOTE ... VOTE EARLY IF POSSIBLE .... BUT MAKE SURE YOU VOTE!

McCAIN VOTERS 'WEST of the MISSISSIPPI' --- DON'T RELY ON EARLY TV RESULTS ...!

""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""

First thoughts: A viewers' guide to tonight

Tim V,Charleston,WV — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 16:38:11 GMT

I just voted here in wild wonderful West Virginia and was very surprized with the turn out so far.I have never had to wait in line here before,but was happy to do so Obama/Biden 08/12

First thoughts: A viewers' guide to tonight

Devout Atheist, Mountville, PA — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 16:38:21 GMT

Ok people, we are at what may well be the greatest historical junction of our generation. So please, make it count. We are at the point of no return, we can either plunge head-first into the abyss or take the opportunity to turn toward a better future. The responsibility is now focused squarely on us to make it happen. Please, do not squander this opportunity. Go out and vote, please. I don't care who you vote for (though I would certainly prefer Obama), but please, make this the election that shows that we are a functional democracy where every voice is heard and it is truly the candidate of the people who assumes the role of President of the United States.

First thoughts: A viewers' guide to tonight

David McCreight, Kula HI. — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 16:40:19 GMT

Correction to the articles....thrid paragraph, second to the last sentance. Hawaii will be the last State to close it's polls NOT Alaska. Thank you.

First thoughts: A viewers' guide to tonight

Ms Henn. Cincinnati, OH — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 16:40:24 GMT

In front of me in line to vote was a naturalized Chinese citizen voting for the first time. His quote of the day, " It's so good to know that no matter who wins, we'll be OK, It's so peaceful knowing that we'll be OK." I voted Obama but no matter we'll be OK.
God Bless the USA

First thoughts: A viewers' guide to tonight

Marissa Mankato MN — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 16:46:46 GMT

Just vote, plain and simple, GO VOTE!!! You feel tied to this country when you are part of the election. I voted in the last election for the first time and I had a sense of accomplishment on my drive home. We are truly fortunate to live in this country and we owe it to ourselves and our nation to do "our" job and vote.

Marissa "Obama vote"