First thoughts: Obama's coattails

BJ, CA — Wed, 03 Dec 2008 14:35:47 GMT

Singlarity of purpose rules the mind set of the populous....
The republicans give a whole new meaning to majority rule...lower voter turn out...
The real question is:
Where's the "Joe the Plumber" factor?

First thoughts: Obama's coattails

Eric, Salinas, CA — Wed, 03 Dec 2008 14:40:19 GMT

If the infantile repugnant ones really loved our country they would all retire and just leave governing to the adult Democratic Party. It's gratifying to see these perversions of politics considering bailing out now that they're the minority. Hey "Clueless" karl rove where's your vaunted generational control of government now? Hah Hah, Up in Smoke!

The best thing we can do to improve the education system us to kill that pathetic No Rich Brat Left Behind garbage that has ruined our public education system.

Who says governors know best? Oh yeah that clueless Wasilla Hillbilly who doesn't seem to be earning her keep as a governor because she's too busy flapping her ignorant gums about anything before any camera she can find. Yeah we had 8 years of a governor running the show and he screwed our country up bigtime because he was a total fool. After him we should never let another governor disgrace the White House.

First thoughts: Obama's coattails

BJ, CA — Wed, 03 Dec 2008 14:40:47 GMT

Governor Bill Richardson is the key to our central theme for the President's new adgenda with America.

Obama could not have picked a more diligent working partner than Bill Richardson...

First thoughts: Obama's coattails

Eric, Salinas, CA — Wed, 03 Dec 2008 14:44:25 GMT

It sure shows how big Obama's coattails were as he kept Martin close enough to force a runoff in Georgia. As more and more tolerant intelligent people move into the south they will change the demographics so that the south won't be solid repugnant ones country.

Bill Richardson will make a great Commerce Secretary but he has a difficult job cleaning up after the mess the bushwhacker annd his clueless team left behind. Now us adult Democrats have to pick up the mess the childish evangelical christian lunatic fringe left behind.

First thoughts: Obama's coattails

Dookie — Wed, 03 Dec 2008 14:47:40 GMT

Thank goodness Chambliss won. No party should have a fillibuster-proof majority. There has to be some sort of checks and balances. For the last 8 years, Democrats always had the ability to fillibuster (and they used it). It will be good for Republicans to have the same. As for the Florida seat, I think it will stay in Republican hands. The Republican bench in Florida is pretty deep. The Dems have some up and comers, but they aren't to the point where I think they could win statewide office.

First thoughts: Obama's coattails

Steve, San Diego CA — Wed, 03 Dec 2008 14:47:59 GMT

Stop it with the 2010 Obama Coat tail problem. You look stupid even bringing this up. Don't be like everyone else, be reporters not gossip mongeres.

First thoughts: Obama's coattails

New Independent — Wed, 03 Dec 2008 14:48:53 GMT

So now the governors are in line for handouts from federal government. They have a lot of company, what with the auto execs, the banks, and every other freeloader that is up begging congress for free money.

States are independent to do what is best for them. They are to keep their own financial house in order, they budgets balanced, and their long term obligations funded. Many states governments chose not to follow those rules, and are now in trouble. It just doesn't make sense for states that have kept their noses clean (Alaska, Texas, Florida) from bailing out states that didn't (California, New York, Illinois).

First thoughts: Obama's coattails

Clara Kansas City, MO — Wed, 03 Dec 2008 14:50:41 GMT

Speculation will run deep on FL Senatorial seat. MSierra, I think you were referring to Congressman Robert Wexler (D-FL) and Congresswoman Debbie Wasserman Schultz (D-FL). They were both outstanding in the campaign. He was an Obama supporter and she was a strong Hillary supporter who crossed over to support Obama's campaign. Either represents well and would be strong contenders. Jeb Bush would be silly not to at least throw his hat in. Although it may be impossible for anyone with the last name "Bush" to go anywhere in National politics for quite some time.
^^^^^^^^^^
Gary, Bozeman - sorry you took the brunt of Stacy's stupidity yesterday. Among her many flaws, she cannot seem to follow a simple comment thread. Speaks to her level of input, in general. At any rate, I enjoy your posts.
^^^^^^^^^
PS. I have never used an anonymous or duplicitous moniker. I will put my name to anything I have to say. I have had others sign off as me - and I do my best to address that, when it happens.

First thoughts: Obama's coattails

Why Is That — Wed, 03 Dec 2008 14:51:18 GMT

First thoughts: Obama's coattails

Phillip, Dallas, TX — Wed, 03 Dec 2008 14:53:21 GMT

The 2010 elections will be decided on Obama's performance in office, as well as the strength of the candidates on the ballot, not whether or not he's on the ballot. Bush was a pretty effective campaigner for GOP candidates in 2002 and 2004, and he wasn't on the ballot.

First thoughts: Obama's coattails

Pat Huntington NY — Wed, 03 Dec 2008 14:54:47 GMT

First, please say it aint so Jeb! We can't stand another Bush in gov't anymore! Keep your day job!

Second, Richardson is a sleezoid! I watched the Logo Channel Forum in which he stated, to a gay audience, that he though being gay was a choice! His attempt to backtrack was pathetic, and because of that, I don't like him. I wish Obama would've let him stay in NM.

Third, it seems like Obama did in fact have coatails, and it was only because of the massive turnout of blacks that Martin did so well at first in GA. Of course, where were they yesterday? Was it because Martin is white and were not as interested in this election? I think these are valid questions to ask, and if the answer is yes, then Dems. have a HUGE problem in 2010 and may very well see themselves in the minority in Congress...that is unless Obama mobilizes African Americans in that mid-term election like he did for the general.

And on a Final Thought...I wish Hillary did NOT take the SoS position, because I would prefer her to be my US Senator, rather than Obama's subordinate. Call me selfish, but it was rather nice to hear, the Junior Senator from NY, Hillary Clinton. Oh well...hopefully she'll be replaced by Robert Kennedy Jr.

First thoughts: Obama's coattails

Ron Indiana — Wed, 03 Dec 2008 14:56:01 GMT

More than likely Jeb Bush will run for the Florida Senate seat...and more than likely he will win. Because his last name is Bush, that's as far as his political career will go. He would have made a far better POTUS than "W". "W" stands for worst POTUS, ever.

It was predictable that Georgia would select a Republican Senator. But I'm not sure the Minnesota Senate race is over. Still finding missing ballots. I predict that the Dems will win with less than 75 votes.

If the government is going to bail out GM, they might as well buy it with stocks, change the management, save what is saveable, down-size to 3 or 4 models. It could be that Ford becomes the Big One.

First thoughts: Obama's coattails

J. Merle Stanley, Westchester, NY — Wed, 03 Dec 2008 14:56:48 GMT

Hey President-Elect Obama....how's about a peak at your birth certificate, eh?

First thoughts: Obama's coattails

Dems Knotts — Wed, 03 Dec 2008 14:57:04 GMT

First thoughts: Obama's coattails

Free American Tehachapi Ca. — Wed, 03 Dec 2008 15:05:22 GMT

Bush the senator? gives the democrats someone to blame when the(ONE) fails to save the world!

First thoughts: Obama's coattails

marty,columbia,s.c. — Wed, 03 Dec 2008 15:07:10 GMT

I dont know how good or how Obama coatails are but I sure wish he would try to make them long when S.C. trys to elect a new Gov. Rick Sanford is like GWB, useless and corrupt. He has some guy in NY who is trying to do our electing for us here in S.C.. Thsi friend of Sanfords is pouring millions into republican
candidates whose only objective is to bring either school vouchers or tax credits for private schools to this state. That while our low country schools are called THE CORRIDOR OF SHAME. so if there are any coatails to ride , let us in S.C. ride them to a democratic Govenor. Our Senator Jim Demint is going to be anotherr big negative to PE Obamas policys and
plans. S.C. is a poor state with a lot of uneducated
folks who consistantly vote against thier own best intrest.
marty

First thoughts: Obama's coattails

marty,columbia,s.c. — Wed, 03 Dec 2008 15:07:44 GMT

First thoughts: Obama's coattails

Clara Kansas City, MO — Wed, 03 Dec 2008 15:07:48 GMT

^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
Clara, Kansas City:

Comment:

Really, take out the word "as" and it's at least as good as Bill Ritter's comment, assuming you take out his "some".

You're a smart person, but slightly obsessive/compulsive over Palin.

MoveOn. Somebody has to. Might as well be you.
Richard, Washington State (Sent Tuesday, December 02, 2008 7:18 PM)
Good to see you back, Richard. Ironic that you think I am obsessive over P----. I haven’t commented for or against her in about a month. I find her vapid and simple without any depth or substance. So imagine my (feigned) outrage at being accused of obsessing. There are many worthy opponents in the Republican Party. She is not one of them. I am rather exhausted of having a measurable amount of articles, daily, include her nonsensical ramblings. My ‘solution’ is to continue to respond, “No Comment”.

But, seriously – How have you been? PS. I am already a member of “MoveOn”; but thanks for the suggestion. I do wish you well, and hope you are adjusting in this "post November 4th" world we are in.

First thoughts: Obama's coattails

Diane from Illinois — Wed, 03 Dec 2008 15:07:58 GMT

Let's face it; Jim Martin wasn't the "best" person for the Dems to be running in Georgia. Had you had a more dyanmic personality, perhaps the outcome would have been different. However it just amazes me that the people of Georgia want a scumbag like Chambliss representing them. He makes your skin crawl just looking at him. Our bible belt southern states need to come into this century and realize the days of right wing evangelicals leading this nation are over. They merely represent the bible belt and that, too, is shrinking. Thank Karl Rove and George Bush for waking up the rest of us to see things differently. America's going to get their first REAl president in a long time on January 20th. It can't come soon enough for me. I'd prefer to see George Bush and Dick Cheney behind bars as the war criminals they truly are, however I know that won't happen. But I am looking forward to our country beginning to heal after January 20th.

First thoughts: Obama's coattails

Dos Mil y Diez, Las Cruces, NM — Wed, 03 Dec 2008 15:10:21 GMT

“Richardson traded on the prominence and expertise he accrued as Bill Clinton’s ambassador to the United Nations and as energy secretary to land more than 20 paying gigs, yielding hundreds of thousands of dollars worth of directors’ fees and stock options -- much of which came from entities dealing in areas directly related to his work in the administration.”

? CHANGE YOU CAN COUNT ON? The 2010 election readjustment can't come soon enough.

First thoughts: Obama's coattails

OBAMA HAS TO RETHINK HIS FOREIGN POLICY ... — Wed, 03 Dec 2008 15:10:49 GMT

MUMBAI WAS A MESSAGE FOR OBAMA …

UNFORTUNATELY — ALMOST EVERYTHING OBAMA SAID DURING THE CAMPAIGN ABOUT THE WORLD AND HIS APPROACH TO FOREIGN POLICY WAS ‘DEAD WRONG.’

NOW OBAMA WILL HAVE TO PAY THE PIPER!

HE IS LUCKY HE WILL HAVE A SECRETARY OF STATE WHO KNOWS THAT THERE ARE GOOD GUYS & BAD GUYS IN THIS WORLD — AND THAT THE BAD GUYS WILL NOT SIT DOWN AND HAVE TEA WITH US — THEY WILL SNEAK UP ON US AND TRY TO KILL US!

######################################################

First thoughts: Obama's coattails

Travis Bewley, BLoomington, IN — Wed, 03 Dec 2008 15:11:02 GMT

Oh please... Did you every think that just maybe the American people didn't want the democrats to have all the power? This country has a strong history of wanting balance. Maybe all the coattails in the world couldn't have got them to 60.

First thoughts: Obama's coattails

Seattle Sue — Wed, 03 Dec 2008 15:11:39 GMT

Chambliss win in Georgia is a sad day for America. Jed Bush to run for Florida senator, a really sad day if he happens to win. I was hoping to never hear the name Bush again. It would be a happy day for America if all Republicans retired. As you can see I am really upset by these past eight years.

First thoughts: Obama's coattails

Nj — Wed, 03 Dec 2008 15:16:18 GMT

Did anyone see Morning JOKE????
Once again he defends george W..

I swear Joe S is so dumb

First thoughts: Obama's coattails

Micheal Groshong, McMinnville, Or — Wed, 03 Dec 2008 15:18:14 GMT

What is ironic is it took a man of mixed heritage to act as a president of the United States even before he is legally able to do so because the Caucasian current president continues to flounder in his elected role. George W Bush who?

First thoughts: Obama's coattails

Jesse St.Paul Minnesota — Wed, 03 Dec 2008 15:19:05 GMT

Msnbc pundspinmisters,did you think Martin had a chance in Georgia?Do you think anyone from the Dem party would have a chance.Georgia has just a few right wingers.When they hear someone talking about helping fellow Americans, they see red.I'm willing to bet the white turn out was twice as many as the Black turnout.Calling Richardson a cheerleader is way out of line,but it takes one to know one.This is news?The bush admin not paying attention to Dem Govs,did the Bush listen to anyone?From the way things have turned out one has to wonder!

First thoughts: Obama's coattails

Off By One — Wed, 03 Dec 2008 15:28:27 GMT

Just in: Georgia Democrat Jim Martin is demanding a recount.

First thoughts: Obama's coattails

SANDRA — Wed, 03 Dec 2008 15:33:56 GMT

LISTEN STOP TRY TO RUN THE PRESIDENT ELECT OBAMA AND THINK YOU KNOW ALL . YOU GUYS HAVE NEVER RUN FOR OFICE OR BEEN IN OFFICE NO BODY IS OVER 40 BUT YOU THINK YOU ARE THE VOICE OF THE COUNTRY.I DO LIKE CHUCK HE CRACKS ME UP .HE IS A PUP MSNBC PUMPED UP I THINK HE DID A GREAT JOB AS I HATE FOX NOISE AND THE CLONES OVER THERE AND SAY YOU ARE THE MAN. LET THE GUY TAKE OFFICE FIRST AT LEAST THE FIRST COUPLE OF YEARS THE COUNTRY IS IN A MESS AND HEY MR.BUSH IS STILL PRESIDENT RUN HIM DOWN PUT THE BURDEN ON HIM .WHERE WAS ALL THIS I KNOW WHAT TO DO AND I HAVE THE ANSWERS AND HE BETTER KEEP HIS PROMISES AND DO WHAT IS RIGHT FOR OUR COUNTRY AND HE BETTER OR ELSE .YOU GUYS DIDN'T SAY A WORD WHERE WERE YOUR VOICES BUT LOOK WHAT YOU GUYS ARE DOING TO OBAMA I SEE A LITTLE RACISM HERE THE NEW GUY IS A BLACK SO LET DESTROY HIM RIGHT AWAY AND NOT GIVE HIM A CHANCE TOEVEN GET INTO OFFICE . JAN 20 .2009 ARE GUNS ARE BLAZING AND HOT ALREADY NOT TO WORRY HE WILL BE READY FOR YOU GUYS TRUST ME HE IS A REAL MAN WITH A BRAIN.

First thoughts: Obama's coattails

J. Merle Stanley, Westchester, NY — Wed, 03 Dec 2008 15:37:33 GMT

"...How many House or Senate Democrats who believe they won because of Obama coattails -- especially in states like Alabama, North Carolina, and Virginia -- saw the run-off result and said, "Uh, oh. 2010 is going to be tough"?...First Read

Boulderdash!
That statement only goes to show the depth, and breath of "Lil' Dommie's" ObamaNIA.
Saint Obama was not on the ballot in 2006 when Democrats, rather handily, took back the House and the Senate.
Democrats did not retain, and expand their majority in both houses of congress because of Barack Huesein Obama.
But rather, they did so because of the inaction, the ineptitude, and the incompetance of Republicans over the course of the last decade....AND because of this country's disdain for the overall performance of George Bush.
The latter part of that is why Obama was elected, by the way.
For some inexplicable reason, "Lil' Dommie" Montanaro thinks that the Democratic Party only exists these days because of Barack Husein Obama.
Well "Lil' Dommie," whatcha' gonna' do if The Supreme Court decides to hear the Berg case? Are you going to cry?
How about asking some real questions, like; "Why doesn't Obama just show his birth certificate and get it over with"....and..."What does he have to hide?"

First thoughts: Obama's coattails

Laurie Dann, Evanston, IL — Wed, 03 Dec 2008 15:41:57 GMT

Will somebody please tell brainless Palin that she should be referring to him as President-Elect Obama and NOT Senator????????? Geesh! If she had a brain she'd be dangerous.

Diane from Illinois

-------------

Calling Obama "Senator" is the appropriate thing to do. That is the highest office he has ever held. The title of "President Elect" has no meaning as that office does not exist.

[If she had a brain she'd be dangerous. ]

As would you.

First thoughts: Obama's coattails

jerry/corpus christi texas — Wed, 03 Dec 2008 15:43:37 GMT

First thoughts: Obama's coattails

J. Richter — Wed, 03 Dec 2008 15:43:46 GMT

Republicans tend to generally be negative, appeal to fear, and be contrary to change (listen to Nixon on tape, or Pallin on the campaign trail, or Rove and his divisive politics). Those are the guys you see in high school dressed ackwardly, with an anathema to the popular, the very smart, the athletes, or the ethnically different, always having some beef against something.

First thoughts: Obama's coattails

GOP vote in higher numbers — Wed, 03 Dec 2008 15:46:19 GMT

Did Martin get more votes on election day because Obama was on the ticket? Most likely, but comparing a run off to a general election is comparing apples and oranges. Martin received close to Obama's vote total in the general, clearly even many who tutrned out for Obama didn't bother voting down ticket. This is clear not only because Martin received fewer total votes in the general, and there had to be a certain percent of Southern Democrats (ie white males for the most part) who voted McCain and Martin, or Martin and no Presidential.

To attempt to gauge Obama's coattails, or make any conclusions based upon this run off is foolish, or merely an attempt to fill air time. Clinton campaigned actively for the Democratic incumbent in Georgia's 1992 run off, is that why the Democrat lost? Doubtful, even though he had more votes than the GOP challenger in the general election. Chambliss was the favored to win on election day. He came up short of the necessary 50%, had Martin won it would have been remarkable, his losing is really meaningless. Historically Republicans do better in run off elections, there are many reasons for this, and this is true even in states without large minority populations.

Please stop trying to make every race, every issue a referendum, or a guide as to Obama's coattails, etc.

First thoughts: Obama's coattails

Derek <3 s OSU — Wed, 03 Dec 2008 15:47:48 GMT

"After him we should never let another governor disgrace the White House. "

Clinton was a governor.

"Stop it with the 2010 Obama Coat tail problem. You look stupid even bringing this up."

obamania/obamanion is an issue and i love to see it addressed. it seems as though most media outlets praise the ground obama walks on and worry about what kind of dog he is going to get his daughters rather than the arrogance and ignorance that plagues our nation.

"We can't stand another Bush in gov't anymore! "

bush really wasn't all that bad. the only arguable actions he took that were wrong were invading iraq too early and spending a lot. he helped the economy (2003 tax cuts), was bipartisan, and even reduced violence in iraq with the surge.

as for the rest of the mumbo jumbo, i like richardson, but would have rather seen a republican in the position. obama has yet to follow through on his "team of rivals". clinton isn't his rival, and richardson isn't so much either. A team of rivals should consist of many opposing views instead of a group of people who believe the same ideals but act like they despise one another. gates isn't enough.

i find it ironic that people are writing off george w bush as the most horrible president without looking at the facts while calling obama one of the best presidents without having any facts.

First thoughts: Obama's coattails

Don't run Jeb — Wed, 03 Dec 2008 15:49:27 GMT

The Dems have some up and comers, but they aren't to the point where I think they could win statewide office.

Dookie

Really Dookie, What is the party of the other US Senator from Florida? Democrat. If Jeb Bush runs he'll probably win, but if he doesn't run, the race is wide open, and the odds are with the Democrat.

First thoughts: Obama's coattails

MSierra, SF — Wed, 03 Dec 2008 15:53:49 GMT

New Independent: '... It just doesn't make sense for states that have kept their noses clean (Alaska, Texas, Florida) from bailing out states that didn't (California, New York, Illinois)...'

Nice try....
But, your forked tongue is showing

Alaska, Texas and florida GET MORE TAX DOLLARS THAN THEY CONTRIBUTE IN TAXES
They have for years !!

California, New York and Illinois have been carrying the Southern and Mountain states for generations

WE GET LESS TAX DOLLARS in benefits than we pay in TAXES

Time for some pay back !!

First thoughts: Obama's coattails

Pete, Dallas, TX — Wed, 03 Dec 2008 15:55:53 GMT

I'm more concerned with the cost of Obama riding Hillary's coattails into office. What happened to the highly ethical approach when her husband clearly presents conflicts even with his suspension of select activities while Hillary serves? Between what he owes the Chicago political machine and Hillary, Obama spent too much. He thinks he can control them, but they all think that when they cut the deal.

First thoughts: Obama's coattails

Diane from Illinois — Wed, 03 Dec 2008 15:57:30 GMT

Hey President-Elect Obama....how's about a peak at your birth certificate, eh?
J. Merle Stanley, Westchester, NY
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
Hee's someone that truly KNOWS our Constitution and the rules for running for office. Duh!

First thoughts: Obama's coattails

Nj — Wed, 03 Dec 2008 16:00:03 GMT

Merle and rethink policy person,

GET A LIFE!!!!
India and Pakistan HATE eachother.
The birth certificate has been debunked a million times.
Get a clue you 2

First thoughts: Obama's coattails

Mark,Seattle — Wed, 03 Dec 2008 16:01:39 GMT

*** especially in states like Alabama, North Carolina, and Virginia -- saw the run-off result and said, "Uh, oh. 2010 is going to be tough"? ***

Obama had coattails for two reasons 1) Obama was unknown and had no record. 2) The media glossed over Obama's inexperience. The media made him into a pop culture icon, a rock-star, and turned the presidental election from something that should have been serious into a high school type popularity contest.

Next time around, neither of the these two items will be true, so 2012 is going to be very tough for the Dems also.
Dems Knotts (Sent Wednesday, December 03, 2008 9:57 AM)
******************************************************
Yes it was the media that got Obama elected. They just could'nt deal with the seriousness and maturity of the GOP this election cycle. Obama running around like a rock star talking on and on about issues that are affecting Americans and how he would try to go about solving them. How dare he! Meanwhile the GOP tried there best to run a serious campaign about joe the plumber (new country album in the works) and fake birth certificates and paling around with terrorists and the dreaded socialists!
Stop making excuses because logic won over Rovian smear tactics. You can blame the media all you want but it's not going to do a damn thing to improve the badly tarnished GOP brand.

First thoughts: Obama's coattails

MSierra, SF — Wed, 03 Dec 2008 16:02:18 GMT

J. Merle Stanley, Westchester, NY: '...how's about a peak at your birth certificate, eh?...'

It's PEEK, actually

It's a deal, you get to peek at Obama's birt certificate, and we get a peek at your Barbie doll collection

Deal ?
And I wann se you Trailer Trash Barbie' !!

First thoughts: Obama's coattails

Nj — Wed, 03 Dec 2008 16:03:07 GMT

Ever notice that the states that are in trouble are run mostly by Democrats? California may have a Republican governor, but he can't stand up to the very liberal state house and senate from spending money they don't have in his state. Many of the midwest states are run top to bottom by Democrats, and are in ruin.

Why Is That (Sent Wednesday, December 03, 2008 9:51 AM)

EVER NOTICE THAT THE WHOLE COUNTRY IS IN A SHAMBLES???
GOP RULE???

Wake up IDIOT

First thoughts: Obama's coattails

Jerome F., New Orleans — Wed, 03 Dec 2008 16:10:16 GMT

Republicans know their best strategy is to let the Democrats show their true self. As a whole America soon snaps out of it's dream world and votes for conservatism. Dem's get to jack-happy when they think they are in control. That scares the majority of Americans. Those that go out and work each day to support their families and the American dream.

First thoughts: Obama's coattails

Indie Woman in Denver — Wed, 03 Dec 2008 16:13:44 GMT

I really try to be respectful of others' posts (everyone has a right to their opinion, and all that), but once in a while a really stupid one torques me up, like questioning BHO's birth certificate -- IT WAS AN URBAN LEGEND (you know what those are, don't you?). To the person who posted the question, and others who believe that crap, are you honestly such a dim bulb that you think there's any chance Obama wasn't born in America and went on to win the presidencey? Get a brain, why dontcha? OK, now that THAT's off my chest...

First thoughts: Obama's coattails

Marie, West Palm Beach, Florida — Wed, 03 Dec 2008 16:14:07 GMT

Jeb is "considering" a run for the Senate? That's a joke. The Bush family created Mel Martinez. He's now disposable and must make way for Jeb. It's a done deal. The most interesting part is if The Family thinks that the Bush name can be sufficiently rehabilitated for them to be able to run Jeb for president in four or eight years. They originally planned to run him, not George, but the plan was stymied when Jeb lost his first bid to be Florida governor. This may well be Plan B.

First thoughts: Obama's coattails

Pete - Albany, NY — Wed, 03 Dec 2008 16:15:05 GMT

Hey President-Elect Obama....how's about a peak at your birth certificate, eh?
J. Merle Stanley, Westchester, NY (Sent Wednesday, December 03, 2008 9:56 AM)

-----------------------------------

Spare me, J. Merle Stanley. That dog won't hunt.

Berg v. Obama isn't going anywhere because Berg does not have legal standing to sue.

See also: Hollander v. McCain

First thoughts: Obama's coattails

Rock,Janesville,Wisconsin — Wed, 03 Dec 2008 16:18:58 GMT

The very red state of Georgia, just turned even more so with a victory for "Shameful Chambliss." The GOP/RNC, just love to create confusion everywhere they go. What is even more scary is that, another Bush is getting politically active again. Jeb Bush is another one of those "brain damaged" individuals representing the "Gross Odd People" (GOP).

First thoughts: Obama's coattails

Not impressed with Politico — Wed, 03 Dec 2008 16:31:38 GMT

The Politico article was really unimpressive. I initially supported Richardson in the Iowa caucuses, I changed my support after the debates, and due to other concerns, but not because of any business dealings. Reading the Political article, one would assume that this was some big expose, a result of investigative reporting. It's not! I read Richardson's book where he was upfront about his business dealings in the "private sector" after Clinton's term ended. He openly talked about taking the opportunity to make money.

There are a lot of things I don't like about Bill Richardson, but the article was really unbecoming of Politico.

First thoughts: Obama's coattails

C A, Tuscaloosa, AL — Wed, 03 Dec 2008 16:36:36 GMT

Jim Martin was a weak candidiate with not much of a personality. In order for Obama's coat tails to help any candidate they first must be strong candidates themselves. This was not the case in Martin. Plus the fact we are talking Georgia here where they still have an affection for the likes of Chambliss, Bush, Palin, etc. One day they may mature into intelligent thinking adults and put away their right wing biases and religious intolerances.

First thoughts: Obama's coattails

Grow up Jerry — Wed, 03 Dec 2008 16:39:21 GMT

Maybe with Hillary gone, new York state will get someone who can do some good in that state. Remember her boasting she would bring millions of jobs to new York State? That was a big of a lie as he hubby telling the world he did not have sex with that woman.
jerry/corpus christi texas

Jerry,

Grow up. You don't live in New York, and you have an irrational hatred of the Clinton's. The people of NY voted over whelmingly to re-elect Hillary, so even though you think she's despictable, the majority of the people in NY disagreed.

First thoughts: Obama's coattails

Mark C, Atlanta GA — Wed, 03 Dec 2008 16:43:03 GMT

*** Ever notice that the states that are in trouble are run mostly by Democrats? blah blah blah Many of the midwest states are run top to bottom by Democrats, and are in ruin. ***

They're in ruin because of the loss of manufacturing jobs overseas, which is due to globalization. That's pretty far above the pay grade of a state legislature or governor, brainiac.

The states that are basket cases by their own doing are mostly in the south -- Mississippi, Alabama, South Carolina, etc. Red states, every last one.

First thoughts: Obama's coattails

kristi, texas — Wed, 03 Dec 2008 16:44:03 GMT

I live in Texas and NCLB has been a debacle here since it began, it is one of many reasons I did not vote for GWB ever.

First thoughts: Obama's coattails

Dookie — Wed, 03 Dec 2008 16:45:29 GMT

"Don't run Jeb"...yes, Bill Nelson, the other FL Senator is a Democrat, but last I checked, he can't run for both Senate seats. I was referring to the current slate of candidates. The GOP holds every statewide office but 1. Just saying that when it comes to statewide name recognition, the GOP has more power than the Dems.

First thoughts: Obama's coattails

sleepy bear — Wed, 03 Dec 2008 16:52:51 GMT

The only thing democrats are worrying about is getting this country out of the mess left behind. We need to survive 2009 before worrying about 2010.

First thoughts: Obama's coattails

June Bug — Wed, 03 Dec 2008 16:53:18 GMT

I'm an Obama supporter, but he needs to put an end to the birth certificate story. His paternal grandmother has claimed she was present in Mombasa for his birth. The birth certificate he put on his website has already been debunked as inauthentic. Why doesn't he just produce it and put an end to it? Before pompous know-it-alls like Clara in KC trash me, remember I support the guy, I just don't know why he doesn't come out on this with legitimate proof.

First thoughts: Obama's coattails

markus, Boston, MA — Wed, 03 Dec 2008 17:02:43 GMT

To J. Merle Stanley, Westchester, NY:

this is idiotic. If Obama were not born in the US, don't you think the GOP sleaze would've JUMPED on that????

Seriously, let this ignorant hysteria go...

First thoughts: Obama's coattails

John Dough — Wed, 03 Dec 2008 17:04:57 GMT

On the Obama Birth Certificate:

The birth certificate presented online was a phony with a phony certificate of authenticity. A real copy of a birth certificate will have a govt seal stamped on it and notorized as authentic. The question is not whether Obama was born in the US (because it is likely he was) but what his citizenship was listed as on the certificate. If he was listed as a Kenyan or an Indoneisan then he is not a US citizen no matter where he was born. Why on earth is the birth certificate sealed for twenty-years? If if were a republican it would front page news everyday until it was released. He could solve this whole matter by unsealing it and displaying it for all to see. Can you say President Biden.

First thoughts: Obama's coattails

L M — Wed, 03 Dec 2008 17:05:54 GMT

Why is it that people cant respect anything right wing. With all the left wing bias going on with all these coments. I dont under stand what the deal is with anything religious? Besides bashing all these things and looking at your presedent elect with suposed religious background and his cabinet choises with some being right wing.. its pretty comical. Besides the economic problems was not just Bush, but the house and senate and the democrats being the majority and democrats having relatiopns with companies he is supposed to over see. Thanks left wing for all the problems

First thoughts: Obama's coattails

JOhn Dough — Wed, 03 Dec 2008 17:09:05 GMT

June Bug:

If he was born in Mombasa he is not a US citizen and cannot be president. It would violate the constitution. Obviously he could not serve then - so this may explain why he had it sealed for twenty-five years. More likely he is not listed as a US citizen on the document which again means he cannot hold office of president

First thoughts: Obama's coattails

Joe gingras — Wed, 03 Dec 2008 17:12:06 GMT

Demcrats have a lot to worry about --- now !

They are taking over during hard times.

Barack Obama is not a change candidate.

Richardson had experience as ambassador, Hillary does not; yet, she is SOS ?

First thoughts: Obama's coattails

Michael M — Wed, 03 Dec 2008 17:46:05 GMT

To those that think that "no party should have a fillibuster proof majority",did you think that 6 years ago. REemember when the rebulicans were so angry that the democrats fillibustered their judicial picks they threatened to change the rules so a simple majority could over ride it. Remember when John McCain suggested it would be a great idea,if only he was certain that the republicans would stay in control forever. Remember when McCain and others said that the congress should respect the republican choice of the electorate and aprove all of the Bush picks. Were sitting there in front of your TV nodding your head and agreeing with everything. What about now. Do you still beleive that.

Now we get to see the difference between those of us who love democracy (and America) and those who simply love power. Now we get to see who still says,filibusters are an important tool of the minority party. Although I would have no problem with a supermajority of democrats (that just means that enough Americans wanted it) I would have real problems with the senate changing the rules to eviscorate the minorities power to fillibuster.

Remember,as it sits now,there IS a fillibuster proof majority ... on some issues. Depending on what is up for debate,some republicans will side with the democrats. Sometimes some dems will side with the republicans. On the other hand, minority power is certainly important. That will give the conservatives an imprint on policy and prevent more extreme appointments. Had the electorate chosen say,65 democratic senators,then it would be different. That would be the electorate in effect asking for those extreme picks.

As for who loves america. If you said "you must support your president in time of war four years ago" but dont support Obama in January, you dont love America,your a hippocrite. If you said that the senate should rubber stamp all the appointments the president made 4 years ago,maybe you dont love America as much as you said you did. If you said it was a good idea to change the rules to eliminate fillibusters 4 years ago,but now are fine with them,maybe you really just want your own agenda implemented and dont really love America like you said you did. America IS her freedom AND her democracy. Its not the nice car you drive,or the food you can go buy (as much as you want of) at the grocery store. Its not the home that allways has heat and running water and electricity. Those are all nice to have,but they are just a side effect of living here.

First thoughts: Obama's coattails

Cesi, Panama, Rep. of Panama — Wed, 03 Dec 2008 17:50:03 GMT

I do agree, be reporters and not gossip mongers. Stop with the 2010 nonsense. Campaign is over for the time being; respect the President elect. There will be time to talk about 2010 and its contenders.

First thoughts: Obama's coattails

Barbara C. - Fort Lauderdale, FL — Wed, 03 Dec 2008 18:05:15 GMT

If we are going to talk about Georgia....I can say it to you all this way...Georgia is NOT Florida. They share a border and that is all. Georgia is one of those states that with the "Right Stuff" could have gone Democratic this time. Also, regarding Martin....he was NOT the kind of candidate who could have won. He did not have "IT". Obama saw this probably, and did not go down there....to Obama's credit.

First thoughts: Obama's coattails

Larry Langlois, St Paul, Minnesota — Wed, 03 Dec 2008 18:18:57 GMT

Ro bad for Jeb. He will have to livve dowbn what his brother did. Our relative from Texas warned us that George was either dum or crooked or both.

First thoughts: Obama's coattails

Scott, Kansas City, Mo — Wed, 03 Dec 2008 18:32:25 GMT

"Besides the economic problems was not just Bush, but the house and senate and the democrats being the majority..." L M

Why can nobody admit that the dems only had a majority for two of eight years. And still not the votes necessary to override a veto.

Many parties are to blame, but mainly Bush/Cheney/Rove.

Many people are responsible to fix it, but mainly Obama and HIS choices for his cabinet.

Let's all get behind him and hope that the vast majority of Americans were right on Election Day !!!

First thoughts: Obama's coattails

Sean, Dallas Texas — Wed, 03 Dec 2008 18:37:14 GMT

keep on gloating and bashing cause it betrays your true nature. You don't have much more time as soon O will have to start making decisions and being accountable. And the tide will start to turn once again...so enjoy the childish banter while you can

First thoughts: Obama's coattails

Carol Chester, VA — Wed, 03 Dec 2008 18:42:28 GMT

The democrats should be afraid. When the likes of Harry Reid says stupid things like he doesn't have to smell the tourists anymore (shouldn't he have said, we the people, the ones who pay taxes and elect or not elect people like him). Harry Reid, when your time to get re-elected comes around, We will remember.

First thoughts: Obama's coattails

Bennie Haynes, Dallas, TX — Wed, 03 Dec 2008 18:57:31 GMT

Cornyn is (ugh!) my Senator and Sessions is (ugh!) my congressman. Everyone please accept my sincere apology.

First thoughts: Obama's coattails

Chuck of Philadelphia PA — Wed, 03 Dec 2008 18:58:44 GMT

I hope that the Republicans are smart enough to curtail the use of filibusters.

They are in sad enough shape already and across the aisle co-operation would work better than the filibuster tactic of delaying or showing their displeasure of a bill on the floor.

Things need to change and they have to work for the good of ALL the people.

First thoughts: Obama's coattails

Ella, Washington, D.C. — Wed, 03 Dec 2008 19:05:16 GMT

I would not overread the tea leafs on what the Georgia results mean for 2010, Obama's coattails, or Sarah Palin's coattails. There is a hard core group of fundamentalists in the US, but/and there are going to stay that way, and they are also not going to grow much bigger. The thought of Sarah Palin "debating" President Obama is mind numbing.

First thoughts: Obama's coattails

Ameria Johnson, Newnan, GA — Wed, 03 Dec 2008 19:08:24 GMT

Please, Please do not take the Chambliss win for anything more than the public stupidity of people in this state. They would have voted for a vampire if the vampire was running as a republican! The people here are still hoping for a repeal of the 1964 Civil Rights Act. The Civil Rights act is at the bottom of all this "I am a conservative" talk. Everyone in this state is not living in la la land and I, for one will be so happy when the president-elect takes office and can actually begin to put his policies in place. Maybe some of the republicans who have lost their jobs, their retirement, and their homes will wake up and realize that they are not rich, they have not benefited from republican policy and most of all they will see that they have been tricked into voting for people like Chambliss. Perhaps the problem here is Georgia and the fact that only 30-40% of the people in this state have a high school diploma.

First thoughts: Obama's coattails

Weston Frazier, Mesa, AZ — Wed, 03 Dec 2008 19:09:31 GMT

I'm tired of people saying bush did so terrible. It seems that whenever anything goes wrong everybody blames him. Why don't we take a look at the majority democratic house and congress who turned down every bill that bush proposed that would have a benefit upon this country. It is because of selfish people in those seats that our country is doing so terrible. President George W. Bush did the best he did with the time he was given. I guess all of you complainers just find it so easy to complain because he has insured our protection as a country. But thats my bias

First thoughts: Obama's coattails

John, Nashville, TN — Wed, 03 Dec 2008 19:11:24 GMT

Georgians simply proved that they are idiot hypocrites (not unlike Tennesseans) ... here, they had a draft dodger who called a war hero soft of defense ... 'nuff said ...

First thoughts: Obama's coattails

Paul A Trouve, Montague, NJ — Wed, 03 Dec 2008 19:15:31 GMT

Well, this is some good political news at last! The Republican winning by more than 10% in a runoff election in GA. The bloom is hardly off the Obama rose and they are raining on his parade already! Maybe it has something to do with Obama (mr change -small chnage that is!) filling his cabinet with Clintonistas to include the wicked witch of the west herself for Secretary of State!

First thoughts: Obama's coattails

Dee Evans, Dallas, Texas — Wed, 03 Dec 2008 19:22:24 GMT

I don't understand how so many are spinning this Georgia election as some kind of a huge Republican victory.

If anything, this should be a moral boost for the Democrats that a Republican incumbant was forced into a run-off in one of the reddest of red states in our country.

For Republicans to be jumping for joy over this is like Laker fans celebrating a 2 point overtime win over the Knicks!

First thoughts: Obama's coattails

John arlington tx — Wed, 03 Dec 2008 20:45:36 GMT

Lets take a wait and see aproach on Obama.
The left is so full of hate. He will have a hard enough time just keeping them off his back.
I hope he gets the colleage palyoff he wants.

Longhorn fan TX