Obama, Common Man?

Dickie Flatts, Charlotte, NC — Mon, 31 Dec 2007 18:40:41 GMT

Obama's wife made / makes large cash. Obama could have too if he wanted to. But he wanted power. He wanted to he a pol.

How many wives making ends meet sit on corporate boards or hang with Oprah?

None.

This is one more example that Obama is a phoney.

Obama, Common Man?

Big Al from Chicago — Mon, 31 Dec 2007 18:47:07 GMT

Barrack Hussein Rezkobama is the common, corrupt Chicago Democrat on the take. Michelle Obama shops at Target, well I guess with her $316,962-a-year position as vice president for community and external affairs for the University of Chigago Hospitals money is a little tight. When Hillary nationalizes health care, Michelle Rezkobama will be out of a job. How can they handle the mortgage on their $1.65MM mansion in Chicago's Hyde Park? Maybe Tony Rezko will give them a no-interest loan.

Remember- Vote Early and Vote Often!

Big Al

Obama, Common Man?

Pat, Boston, MA — Mon, 31 Dec 2007 18:54:48 GMT

Barack and Michelle Obama, what a lovely couple. I'm afraid the country is looking for an "angle" as to why they should not be our next first family. And they will find it.

The one thing we were all able to see quite clearly was that once GWB became president, he could not connect to ordinary Americans. No one in his Administration could. Rice, Cheney, Rove ...... They looked down upon the people who voted for them.

What a difference between GWB and FDR. Both came from similar backgrounds, yet FDR & Eleanor seemed to instinctively know what it meant to be leaders, to reach out to its citizens.

The country needs a President who can connect. Senator Obama can do that. But the country will not elect him.

He's a good man, which after all we've been through, is what we want. Isn't it?

Obama, Common Man?

Wayne, Silver Spring, MD — Mon, 31 Dec 2007 19:00:54 GMT

a common man, indeed.

Obama, Common Man?

Shadow, Hamden, CT — Mon, 31 Dec 2007 19:03:22 GMT

Very compelling. As an independent, I'd rather have someone entrusted with our multitrillion dollar economy who actually remembers what it's like to financially struggle, and who has passed up big salaries throughout his life in favor of serving the public, even when it meant making thirteen thousand dollars a year. That sounds like someone who can actually be trusted to think about the average American when setting economic policy, and who would never fall into the Washington pattern of allowing institutional greed to compromise social good. What's more, someone has truly had to prove their fiscal responsibility in their own life if they've kept up with bills on a meager budget, and that's the kind of fiscal restraint we need in our next President.

Obama, Common Man?

Wisdom Calls — Mon, 31 Dec 2007 19:14:02 GMT

BHo's team at First Read is working so hard for him.

I wonder why he has not pulled ahead inspite of the free press he is receiving.

People are not easily deceived. Infact, you have turned a lot of people off BHO.

FIRST READ, try not to be so biased in your communication. This is just good advice. You are free to take it or lump it.

Obama, Common Man?

Chris, Shawnee, Ks — Mon, 31 Dec 2007 19:14:21 GMT

It's a little frustrating that being a dem from Kansas as there isn't a whole lot we can do to play a part in this exciting process, but Obama is great. His comments are a little curious, though, about not being in the same "orbit". So what kind of President would he be by his second term? Because I'm sure being President would send him to that out of touch place he is afraid of like the rest of them...

Obama, Common Man?

S.B. Stein E.B. NJ — Mon, 31 Dec 2007 19:14:57 GMT

There are a lot of things to admire about Mr. Obama. He has worked hard and admitted his mistakes. I haven't fully looked at his policies, but I will in the future. The primary that I will vote in is coming up. Do I think he is up to the task? I think lots of people are up to do that job. I think I could do it, but I am too young.

Obama, Common Man?

Mr. Unite Us — Mon, 31 Dec 2007 19:20:55 GMT

Actually Obama is taking a page from his own book.

One adavantage Obama has among Iowans is that he
has been a consistent supporter of ethanol. Hillary previously voted against ethanol but has since
switched her position.

One thing that could hurt Clinton is her statement hat she reguarly receieved classified information even though she had no security clearance.

Obama, Common Man?

Frank Morrison — Mon, 31 Dec 2007 19:26:25 GMT

I feel like the media is starting to pump up Edwards a little to much. I'm for Obama, but if McCain wins on the Republican Side next week in N.H.-I don't think any of the current Democratic contenders will be able to beat him-Obama included.

Obama, Common Man?

kmnecole, st louis, mo — Mon, 31 Dec 2007 19:36:26 GMT

Just read an article on the leading three Democrats in IA- and out of that article- one paragraph just seemed to jump out and say so much:

'Mrs. Clinton, of New York, speaks farther from her audience than Mr. Obama does, but also spends more time gripping, grinning and posing afterward. Mrs. Clinton has a tendency to use the “when I’m president” construction, as opposed to “if I’m elected.” She prefers the pronouns “I” and “me,” whereas Mr. Obama is more prone to use “we” or “us” and Mr. Edwards “them.” '

It seems that Obama really gets the idea that we're all in this together (sorry for the High School Musical similarity).

We and Us- what better words to describe a nation so divided and desperately needing to come together- we as a nation, as a people, will only survive when we can stand united.

And who would we want to better embody that message than the POTUS- the leader of this Great nation. To me, the choice is so clear-

Obama 08

Obama, Common Man?

kmnecole, st louis, mo — Mon, 31 Dec 2007 19:37:45 GMT

sorry, forgot to post a link to that article- here it is:

http://www.nytimes.com/2007/12/31/us/politics/31oppose.html?pagewanted=2&_r=1&hp

Obama, Common Man?

Yeah Right — Mon, 31 Dec 2007 19:40:39 GMT

More like con man. His sixth and seventh important acts as a senator were to vote for a bill that made it nearly impossible for ordinary people to sue giant corporations who rob & defraud. He voted for President Bush's energy bill, sending more than $13 billion in subsidies and tax breaks to oil, coal, and nuclear companies. He voted to allow credit card companies to raise interest rates over 30 percent. He spoke out against the Patriot Act, only to vote in favor of reauthorizing it, he cannot commit to have all troops out of Iraq by 2013, supported Bush's sanctions against Iran and co-sponsored a bill designating the Iranian National Guard a terrorists organization, he implied he'd invade Pakistan.. He accepts money from lobbyists then denies it.

Obama, Common Man?

Mike, Dallas, TX — Mon, 31 Dec 2007 19:44:07 GMT

There is a nice GUIDE TO 'ELECTABILITY'

Sponsored By
Who Can Win in November?
A guide to 'electability,' as the voting draws nigh.

By Jonathan Alter
Newsweek Web Exclusive
Updated: 12:01 PM ET Dec 31, 2007
Even at this late date, more than half of all voters in Iowa and New Hampshire say they have not made up their minds for sure. Many are still deciding which candidate they think would make the best president. But thousands of others are wrestling with a more cold-blooded question: who can win in November?

Most early head-to-head polls show John McCain and Barack Obama as the strongest candidates in a general election, a reflection of their slight edge over their primary opponents among independents, who make up at least a third of the electorate and often determine the outcome.

But "electability voters" need more than polls. With the stipulation that 10 months is an eon in politics, let's make some educated guesses about the pros and cons of how each of the plausible candidates would do in the Big Show.

Warning: these assessments could be thrown off by unexpected developments, the entrance of a third-party candidate or the particular dynamics of various matchups of Republican and Democratic nominees. Plus, I could just be flat wrong.

The candidates in both parties are listed from least to most electable:

REPUBLICANS

Fred Thompson

Pro
If he somehow got the nomination his down-home style would wear well nationally.

Con
He's a lackadaisical campaigner who generates little excitement, even among Republicans.

Bottom Line
Canceled for the fall season. He's Bob Dole without the sense of humor or deep experience.

Rudy Giuliani

Pro
His moderate positions on issues and his 9/11 calling card would sit well with pro-choice swing-state independents worried about national security.

Con
Rudy's strong support for the Iraq war, promise to appoint anti-abortion justices in the mold of Clarence Thomas and Antonin Scalia to the Supreme Court, and backing of President Bush's veto of the children's health bill would negate his appeal to moderates in Blue states. And his profiteering off 9/11 and ugly personal life make him a fat target. Expect New York City firefighters to appear in ads trashing him, which would undermine his message.

Bottom Line
Unless the United States is attacked again by terrorists close to the election, a risky choice for Republicans.

Mitt Romney

Pro
The former Massachusetts governor, a proven vote-getter in a liberal state, looks and sounds presidential. His record of success in business would play well in debates, and his personal fortune could help close the Democrats' spending advantage before post-convention public financing kicks in.

Con
He's got no common touch. He's easy prey as a flip-flopper. And as much as a quarter of the electorate—mostly Republicans whom he must have—say they could never vote for a Mormon, which is more than three times as many as those who say the same thing about a female or African-American candidate.

Bottom Line
If anti-Mormon Republicans stay home, it's hard to see how he makes it in November.

Mike Huckabee

Pro
Likable, silver-tongued, strong on middle-class economic issues that appeal to Reagan Democrats, speaks "American" with a series of amusing stories and folksy metaphors that will not seem threatening to the nonreligious when they get to know him. His background as a Southern Baptist minister could help him tap churchgoers who don't usually vote.

Con
Gaffes on foreign policy already dogging him, and his Arkansas ethics problems may undercut his theocon image. With Rush Limbaugh and Republican regulars trashing him, might not hold the secular pro-business part of the GOP base. Could lose nonchurchgoers who usually vote.

Bottom Line
A big risk, but he's got potential appeal to Reagan Democrats, which might be the only way for the GOP to hold the White House.

John McCain

Pro
Appealing, moderate, experienced, especially on foreign policy and national security, and his maverick streak and war hero status have long made him a favorite of independents and even some Democrats. Might put Blue states in play.

Con
At 71, he'd be the oldest president, and looks it. In a "change election" he would seem like a figure from the past, especially on domestic issues. GOP base would be lukewarm about its nominee.

Bottom Line
If there's major news from abroad in 2008, he's the GOP's best shot. If not, he's not.

DEMOCRATS

Chris Dodd

Pro
Seasoned, accomplished, presidential.

Con
If he can't light fires in Iowa or New Hampshire, he lacks the mojo to win.

Bottom Line
Highly electable, but not gonna get the chance.

Bill Richardson

Pro
Experienced as a governor, congressman, cabinet secretary, diplomat. Could wake the sleeping giant of American politics: the Hispanic vote.

Con
Not connecting, and would be vulnerable in debates.

Bottom Line
Probably won't be veep, either.

Joe Biden

Pro
Strong foreign-policy chops in a churning world. Buoyant campaigner. More likable northeast Catholic than John Kerry, which might be all that's needed.

Con
High risk of gaffes, plus an energy-killing long-windedness.

Bottom Line
Plenty electable, but after 35 years in the Senate he would have a hard time carrying the Democrats' message of change.

John Edwards

Pro
Dynamic, disciplined campaigner with general election experience. Taps into economic anxiety. Regional advantage, considering that the only two Democrats elected president in nearly half a century were both white Southerners.

Con
Choked in '04 veep debate with Dick Cheney. A weak record, and pro-business Senate votes make him seem like a flip-flopper. Hard-edged populist message has always been a general-election loser, but if he tacks away from it, he'll get hammered. Trial-lawyer style has shown little appeal among indies.

Bottom Line
Looks safer, but at least as big a risk in general election as Clinton or Obama.

Hillary Clinton

Pro
Battle-tested. The dirt on her is so old it won't stick. Sensing history, women voters will come out in record numbers, including independents and Republicans who thought they never would. Steady debate skills would lessen Democrats' jitters. Restorationist appeal: nostalgia for the 1990s, a third term for Bill.

Con
The only candidate who can energize a dispirited GOP, which has been lying in wait for her. Surprise dirt will emerge, as it always does with the Clintons. Women would vote disproportionately Democratic anyway, offering little advantage. Depth of American misogyny unclear. Many Hillary-haters are the very independents she needs. Distaste for dynasties and a return of Clinton fatigue.

Bottom Line
She can win, but she'll need to run a near-flawless fall campaign.

Barack Obama

Pro
Fresh, inspiring and embodies what most elections are about: the future. Heavy black vote could tip a couple of Red states into the Blue column, while those against him because of race wouldn't be voting Democratic anyway. Teflon potential: Republicans would have to muzzle attack dogs or risk seeming racist. Strong with independents and college-educated men who have recently tilted to GOP.

Con
Untested against Republicans, who would leap to define him before he could define himself. Name, background and lack of experience may represent too much change. Depth of American racism unclear. While polling shows liberal-bashing has lost its resonance, GOP would try it anyway.

Bottom Line
A roll of the dice, but the only one with a decent chance for a landslide.

URL: http://www.newsweek.com/id/82522

Obama, Common Man?

Michelle Denver, Colorado — Mon, 31 Dec 2007 19:44:41 GMT

Doesn't everyone's potential have a lot to do with luck, hard work and a good attitude? Unless you're a Bush I mean. All they have to do is appear to be sober and get to know daddy's friends.

Obama, Common Man?

LawSchoolDem, Houston, Texas — Mon, 31 Dec 2007 19:45:54 GMT

Yes and attending a white upscale private prep school in Hawaii that costs just as much as an undergraduate education definitely must have been rough ... Don't be fooled, Obama is playing dirty Chicago politics. Fired up? Ready to go? Please do--away!

Obama, Common Man?

Dave tx. — Mon, 31 Dec 2007 19:46:07 GMT

obama and edwards are both afraid of Hillary, she has lied about both, and they won't fight back. She has so many skeltons in her closet it looks like a halloween store.

Obama, Common Man?

Ellis B. Kingman, Az. — Mon, 31 Dec 2007 19:51:07 GMT

In trying to explain wife Michelle's statement "we are not going to do this again" in the Tim Russert interview Obama said,"what she meant is in another four or eight years we may not be the same people or have the same values as now" Oh my goodness, can you believe some people want this man for president? Is Obama saying the elements of politics may change who he is and reshape his values over time. I can certainly understand now how Obama was duped into taking cocaine and using foul language, he is not a leader, he's a follower. He has just admitted his values are susceptible to change depending upon the environment he is in at a given time. Go away Obama, I want a president who is comitted to his values not a lizard that changes it's colors or values to match it's surroundings. Maybe someone like Edwards would be more to my liking.

Obama, Common Man?

Rosemary, California — Mon, 31 Dec 2007 20:00:26 GMT

Yes, he is a common man with a dream of becoming the first African American President. That alone puts him head and shoulders above most of the other candidates.

The reasons are, first he has to walk a fine line about his heritage, who else is on trail is getting that much scrutiny? Then he has to appeal to everyone and hope that they see the man and his desire to serve his country? Not his color. How many candidates are running with that double-edge situation?

Next he has to compete against an ex-President and his wife and their tremendous machine, and surrogates trying to take all of the oxygen out of the room, and level some of the most scandalous charges against his character and experience used against him? I ask how many of the other Democrats and some Republican candidates have to put up with that? Then they try to point out that because of his name he might be a threat and change his religion.

Let's not forget the media, especially some of those at MSNBC who all but told him to fold his tent and go home. How many other candidates were told flat out to do that? Edwards especially was never called on the experience question. How much does he have? Very little, plus the fact that he has been campaigning since 2004. Obama has done an amazing job considering his entry into this Presidential cycle.

Also, the timing for him to run is now. What is wrong with the statement? Nothing. It takes a tremendous effort and strength to be in a grueling presidential campaign. How many other candidates are running again?

So I say with all of that against you, you have to be an incredibly strong person, who everyone should not have a question about whether you can run this country or the skill and judgment.

How many other candidates could go through with what he has to put up with and still smile? I dare to say not many and generally they don't have endure such treatment. So Obama is being tested by fire. So far his feet seem to be able to stand the heat and it is a lot of it. Maybe the good citizens of Iowa will see his vision and support him and say this is the Man and make history.

Obama, Common Man?

Ken Collins/Wagoner, Oklahoma — Mon, 31 Dec 2007 20:09:02 GMT

Obama, Common Man?

Carrie, Eastern Iowa — Mon, 31 Dec 2007 20:11:34 GMT

How many other candidates could go through with what he has to put up with and still smile?
Rosemary, California (Sent Monday, December 31, 2007 3:00 PM)

You should ask yourself that question about Hillary Clinton. I seriously doubt any presidential candidate in America has ever undergone the sort of scrutiny she has for the last 15 years.

Obama, Common Man?

Margaret, NYC — Mon, 31 Dec 2007 20:13:17 GMT

In 2004, the newly elected Obama said he would NOT run for president in 2008. (see Youtube and articles)
But then the CORPORATE media pundits and Hollywood crowd began urging him to run - KNOWING he'd suck support from John Edwards who was running again against CORPORATE greed.
Obama had to know it too.

And the CORPORATE MEDIA has showered Obama with praise and kudos - rather than dissecting his political record - of accepting donations from corporate and Washington lobbyists until a week before he entered the presidential race claiming he'd "change Washington."
If he'd wanted to "change Washington" he could have begun when he CAME to Washington!

We are not deceived!!

John Edwards will be a GREAT President!

Obama, Common Man?

Margaret, NYC — Mon, 31 Dec 2007 20:14:35 GMT

No more plants! No more Bushes! No more Clintons!
No more Monicas! NO DYNASTIES!
Oh- and no more cocaine, Obama!

We need John Edwards in the White House!! - with his FAITHFUL wife of 30 years!

Obama, Common Man?

Paul, Annapolis, MD — Mon, 31 Dec 2007 20:20:27 GMT

John Edwards can't beat Hillary. He accepted federal money and thus couldn't possibly beat her nationally even if he wins Iowa.

A vote for Edwards is a vote for Hillary. Consider that, Iowa.

Obama, Common Man?

vanreuter, NY NY — Mon, 31 Dec 2007 20:23:58 GMT

Hey FR-

Why no coverage of the Obama campaign memo and conference call brilliantly predicting victory in the Iowa caucus, while the professional campaigns are all working hard to lower expectations?

Axelrod, Plouffe and company seem to have chosen the absolute worst moment to start shooting themselves in the foot...

http://www.desmoinesregister.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20071231/NEWS09/71231014/1001/NEWS

http://www.taylormarsh.com/

Seems to be almost as big a story as Mike's Huck-up...

Van

Obama, Common Man?

Simon, IA — Mon, 31 Dec 2007 20:24:50 GMT

obama and edwards are both afraid of Hillary, she has lied about both, and they won't fight back. She has so many skeltons in her closet it looks like a halloween store.
Dave tx. (Sent Monday, December 31, 2007 2:46 PM)

Have you visited that store personally? Or are you talking based on your dumbness? The latter sounds more plausible, isnt it Dave?

Republicans are so full of hatred that they start acting like idiots for others to laugh at them.

Obama, Common Man?

simon, ia — Mon, 31 Dec 2007 20:27:00 GMT

Hillary stood against Republican fire for so many years. Obama is afraid that he can not stand up against that fire in future. So he is preparing his case from now.

Come on!

Obama, Common Man?

Simon, IA — Mon, 31 Dec 2007 20:30:50 GMT

The polls and MSNBC (Chuck Todd) are going to have to eat a little crow when Sen. Obama wins Iowa, and as the caucuses begin to show Obama is for real.
I still think even then Chuck Todd will still be singing Hillary's praise !!!!
MSNBC should be charging the "Clinton" campaign advertising fees or is it being held out if Chuck Todds salary ?
Ken Collins/Wagoner, Oklahoma (Sent Monday, December 31, 2007 3:09 PM)

LOL Ken do you live in Antarctica? The whole world knows MSNBC is rooting for Obama from Today's show to Hardball to Meet The Press. Do you even read news? Or are you another blind dumb Obama follower doping on hope?

Obama, Common Man?

HP Boston — Mon, 31 Dec 2007 20:32:45 GMT

Wow are we all going to be surprised on Friday, Jan. 4th 2008!
Be prepared for a doozy.
I may not like it, you may not like it but hey it is just the first speed bump. Lots more to go!

Obama, Common Man?

HoleinOne, Boston, Mass — Mon, 31 Dec 2007 20:39:12 GMT

Just saw Obama's financials. Seems odd that he has miminal assets except a $1.9M house that he recently purchased. Don't expect our President to be rich but also don't want him worrying about paying his bills.

Obama, Common Man?

Billy Maughan — Mon, 31 Dec 2007 20:41:48 GMT

Obama is a rich white kid who's going to get his clock rocked, either by Hillary or by the Republican who gets the nomination

Obama, Common Man?

Tuck, Realityville, Ks — Mon, 31 Dec 2007 20:51:02 GMT

obama, working for the insurance companies day in and day out.

btw, in 2006, the year michelle obama resigned from the board of a subsidairy of walmart, she recieved 52K from them, her lowest pay for being on the board in over 6 years.

Did you obamaites know she was walmart flunkie?

Obama, Common Man?

--NSMsnbc — Mon, 31 Dec 2007 20:53:50 GMT

Thank you FirstRead, in my opinion that was a well-done, fair, unbiased synopsis that lays out the point and context.

G-Obama ‘08
Unite the Country under one Obama-nation.
Barack that Vote

Obama, Common Man?

Alicia — Mon, 31 Dec 2007 20:53:50 GMT

John Edwards only recently seen the light on the populist message. In 2004, he was a founding member of the DLC and founded the conservative South Carolina New Democrat Movement.
http://www.nndb.com/group/269/000093987/
http://www.dlc.org/ndol_ci.cfm?kaid=85&subid=109&contentid=894

In 2004 John Edwards was for NAFTA now he is against it
http://query.nytimes.com/gst/fullpage.html?res=950DE3DF143CF937A15751C0A9629C8B63

He was for the Patriot Act,then he wanted to change it now he is against it
http://www.peace-action.org/2004/Edwards.html

Voted YES on banning "soft money" contributions and restricting issue ads. (Mar 2002)

Voted YES on banning campaign donations from unions & corporations. (Apr 2001)
Those same groups are now putting out ads for him in Iowa.

Edwards and his surrogates are now against PAC's and special interest> they also and critizes other candidates for their PACS. But in 2004 he had a PAC that donated to the Iowa and New Hampshire Democratic Party's and other candidates
http://www.publicintegrity.org/docs/bop2004/dw/Edwards/First_Quarterly_02.pdf

In 2004 he was against Universal Healthcare. He only wanted UH only for kids.
"The issue becomes whether you believe health care is an isolated problem. For those in poverty and the struggling middle class, if one thing goes wrong-if they have a health care problem-they go right off the cliff. I mandate health care for all kids and cover the most vulnerable adults. But we also have to find ways to not only lift these families out of poverty."
Democratic 2004 primary debate at USC Feb 26, 2004
http://www.highbeam.com/doc/1P2-278428.html

Now which John Edwards are we getting?

Obama, Common Man?

kisha — Mon, 31 Dec 2007 20:55:18 GMT

Taylor Marsh is a nut and anyone who listens to her is a nut too.

Obama, Common Man?

Fran, Brooklyn, NY — Mon, 31 Dec 2007 20:56:56 GMT

Democrats - wake up!

If we want to win in November, we must nominate Barack Obama. He is the only candidate who beats every single Republican per the latest Zogby poll.

Hillary has negatives approaching 50%! She'll never win a general election. Too polarizing.

I like John Edwards, but he couldn't even carry his own Southern home state of North Carolina in 2004 as the VP nominee.

We need a candidate who is a uniter. Someone who can inspire us. Someone who can have a broad appeal to voters in both blue and red states - Democrats and Republicans and Independents, and voters of all ages.

We need to nominate Barack Obama!!

Obama, Common Man?

Michelle, Denver, Colorado — Mon, 31 Dec 2007 21:28:49 GMT

Big Al from Chicago:

Your name sounds like a Chicago Mob Boss. I see that you often refer to Obama using his middle name of Hussein. Does this make you feel better about your own name?

Do you believe that you will make the rest of us think of terrorism by using the word "Hussein" and therefore, make us not vote for Obama? Do you believe that we Americans are that stupid?

If you wish to make a point, please make an intelligent point.

Obama, Common Man?

Melissa, Bethesda,l Maryland — Mon, 31 Dec 2007 21:29:02 GMT

John Edwards made 55 million dollars as a trial lawyer. And he is talking about how to stop greed in Washington. All this after Edwards voted for the Iraq war out of cowardice????

Obama, Common Man?

John Go, Pittsburgh. Pa — Mon, 31 Dec 2007 21:29:23 GMT

Ellis B. Kingsman Az. Please! As if your values haven't changed as you've grown in wisdom. Oh I'm sorry, you have no wisdom to cause a possitive change in your values. That's evident in your short sighted small vision comment. Let's expand a little, Genius.?

Obama, Common Man?

vanreuter, NY NY — Mon, 31 Dec 2007 21:31:08 GMT

Thank you FirstRead, in my opinion that was a well-done, fair, unbiased synopsis that lays out the point and context.

G-Obama ‘08
Unite the Country under one Obama-nation.
Barack that Vote

--NSMsnbc (Sent Monday, December 31, 2007 3:53 PM)

And coming from such an obviously impartial source, it must be true!
One can only hope you were going for the laugh line here, Nicholas.

Van

Obama, Common Man?

vanreuter, NY NY — Mon, 31 Dec 2007 21:35:44 GMT

Obama, Common Man?

realitybites — Mon, 31 Dec 2007 21:37:59 GMT

Still feeling confident ? Common man ?

1. Obama's base - young people start leaving him. Some papers and blogs shows that those young voters didn't like his reaction to Bhutto's death. Even Chris Matthew said " That's cold"
2. Obama start loosing "media smooth ride". You can't back up a" speech guy", if he can't talk right wothout making speech.
3. Some Iowan voters say Obama doesn't do well with Q&A, lack of deeper explainations, thoughts, too much same thing they heard in JJ Diner, not much new, too stiff, too much lines.
4. Morning Joe said, Republicans are scared if Hillary win the nomenee. Republican don't have to say a word if Obama win the nomenee. That is why Republicans are pushing Obama.
5. Voters don't like Obama attack everyone now. He has been using Edwards and now Edwards poll is better than his and he is insecure.
6. Media threw knives to Hillary for the whole time and never gave her an easy ride. But she is still standing, leading, looks more vetted, tested, tougher, stronger than ever. She outshine Obama. Obama never had experince like Hillary's for the whole campaign.
7. Oprah did not help Obama. After voters noticed 130 "present" voting record, they changed their minds because some of the issues are about their interests and Obama did not help.
8. Obama's wife told voters "now or never". That gave voters a message of what type of candidate they are. Another example of showing INEXPERINCE. It seperated him from Hillary, Biden, Dodd, Edwards... who have been through way more than him.

Obama, Common Man?

vanreuter, NY NY — Mon, 31 Dec 2007 21:40:46 GMT

Taylor Marsh is a nut and anyone who listens to her is a nut too.

kisha (Sent Monday, December 31, 2007 3:55 PM)

So, you would prefer that the link to the Obama campaign's doozy of a memo came from a different link?

http://www.time.com/time/2007/thepage/Obama_Strategy.pdf

It IS Barack's campaign memo, after all. I guess now anyone who reads Time is also a nut.

Van
(cancel that subscription now!)

Obama, Common Man?

Rick,ky — Mon, 31 Dec 2007 22:09:11 GMT

Van, it seems as tho Hillary has been caught up in another steamy story. The New York Times article last week said she did'nt even have Security clearance. Now she says, she was briefed. Maybe thats in those paper's that will be released after Feb 5th. LOL. Not when Bill said & that was after she was President.Which is it Van, Did she have Security clearance , or did the National security people brief her, which would be Criminal?
I'm sure, the little dance around the question dance is coming in the next 24 hour's.

" DELUSIONAL THINKING BY COMMON SENSE AMERICAN'S IS OVER "

Obama, Common Man?

Kisha — Mon, 31 Dec 2007 22:18:54 GMT

Van you can go back to your job as a campaign staffer now. Taylor Marsh is a nut who hates Obama. (Like many in the Clinton campaign do) She consistently parrots the Hillary camp talking points. Anyone that obsessed with anyone is crazy.

Obama, Common Man?

--Nicholas — Mon, 31 Dec 2007 22:23:09 GMT

VanReuter--You got me, I am no impartial source, though I never claimed to be (I'm not Chris Matthews). But I was serious when I said that it was a well-done, fair thread in one man's humble opinion. It wove the story/message together from somebody with firsthand experience watching him on the stump, and I liked it. I did intend you give you a good laugh line, though, I'm glad it worked.

Mr., Ms., Mrs. RealityBites:
You mentioned "another example of showing inexperience." When I think about all these cases in which Obama "shows inexperience," I think it is more that he is demonstrating a different (I won't claim worse or better) way of doing things. Conventional wisdom is experience, Obama challenges conventional wisdom, and that is where I see the inexperienced label coming from lately. In reality, you are saying that he is the best "change" agent. THAT'S an argument FOR Obama! The convential wisdom experience that we have in Washington isn't working, and we need a change.

The other argument you make beautifully is that Obama operates on a new tactic than the tired convential wisdom of Washington--common sense. That reinforces the topic of this thread that Obama is, indeed, more of a Common man. Ha!

Caucus for Chuck Todd!!!

Obama, Common Man?

ki houston — Mon, 31 Dec 2007 22:26:38 GMT

dikey. do you think anyone takes you serious . Or do you just like to hear yourself hate . dont worrie ,only a few days left . Somebodys going to crap there paints.

Obama, Common Man?

MM, CO — Mon, 31 Dec 2007 22:39:46 GMT

A "common" man with an uncommon talent to bring people together. He won't be so common when he wins in a landslide in November.

Obama, Common Man?

Paul Williamson, San Diego, CA — Mon, 31 Dec 2007 23:20:49 GMT

Obama will not have a prayer in the general election-the Republicans will tear him to pieces (if you like Swift-boating, you are gonna love what they do to Obama..). He has a lot of skeletons that will be brought out- drugs, alcohol, Chicago party politics, rampant and naive liberalism, corruption, Muslim heritage (what religion was he for the first 29 ears of his life if he became Christian just 15 years ago?),half citizenship, his dismal Senate record (he missed 85% of the votes this year). What has this guy done that makes him qualified to be president other than romance the Democrats who often go for the wierd, the unqualified, and unelectable liberals (Stevenson, McGovern , Humphrey)? Democrats love a pretty new face with "high ideals", whether or not he is qualified or experienced to run the country-half the people in this country are more qualified to be president than Obama..if he gets the nomination, the Republicans will win in a landslide carrying the House and Senate as well.. (remember McGovern)? Wake up, Democrats!!

Obama, Common Man?

George Hoffman, Lexington, Kentucky — Mon, 31 Dec 2007 23:38:25 GMT

All of the candidates are human and have their flaws. We can pick anyone apart if that's our goal. But if we're seeking a true change from the old politics of divisiveness, anger and contempt, then Obama is the person we should look to as president.

He offers a new face for America, a new philosophy, and a different approach to our many problems. If we want change, he is the candidate that will deliver.

If we want the same old politics and continue on the path of stagnation, then Hillary is the choice, though it's doubtful she can be elected.

Edwards is a nice guy but too much of a political lightweight to face the Republican onslaught that every Democratic candidate will have to endure.

So, if we wish to see a Democrat in the White House, and a president who will bring change from the past, we have to support Obama.

Obama, Common Man?

joseph pierre,fort lauderdale,Fl — Mon, 31 Dec 2007 23:43:17 GMT

Yeah Right,
You're referring to fake Edwards and Queen Hillary. I'm just guessing.Wake up. The stupid democrats who vote for those two phonies deserve to lose the election.One's a fake populist, the other, old time.One has proven he can't win already(2004); the other has half of the electorate dead set on voting against her.That leaves the dems one good choice:OBAMA.The sooner they wake up the better their chances will be at avoiding another defeat.How do 8 more years of republican control sound? Pretty good I suppose if you vote for HRC or JE.

Obama, Common Man?

Rick,ky — Mon, 31 Dec 2007 23:57:58 GMT

O boy, Hillary's crowd is all worked up now, knowing that Thursday Jan 3rd-2008 is the Beginning of the End for her!!!Calm & sincere Van is no longer posting the Nonsense of the National polls. We have Big Al from Chicago & Billy Bob (reality bites)on here with the Muslim, cocaine wanna be Preisdent essay as a 4 year old Crap. The book is gonna be thrown at Barack these last 60 hour's or so.Why, you may ask. It's because he has taken the Aura of Electibility to her & WON.LANDSLIDE BABY, not even the Supreme court will be able to steal a landslide Victory.

Barack Hussein Obama President of the United States of America. As some poster's have posted, get Used to saying THAT!

Obama, Common Man?

Chris, Adaville, Iowa — Tue, 01 Jan 2008 00:07:32 GMT

History will be made 0n the 3rd 08. Obama 08.

Obama, Common Man?

Marbw — Tue, 01 Jan 2008 00:21:28 GMT

It will be a joyous day when we move away from the Clintons' 20+ years of domination of my Democratic party.

--------Bill Clinton 1992-2000----

Republicans gained control of both houses of Congress for the first time in more than 40 years after the 1994 elections.
Democrats lost control of the U.S. House of Representatives for the first time in 40 years, along with control of the Senate and 10 gubernatorial seats

Keep in mind that there were also party switches from 1992 to 1996 election(1994 was bad for Dems):
Democratic # of senators went from 56 to 47 to 45. Republican # of senators went 44-53-55.
House of Rep. was 258-198-206 for Dems.
House of Rep was 176-236-228 for Repubs.
House of Rep had 1 Ind.
Governors were Dem 21/Repub 14 then changed in 1994 to Dem 11/Repub 24.
(no real shift..+-one.. in gov party control in 1996).

NO MORE DRAMA or dynastic rule
OBAMA08

Obama, Common Man?

Nashville_fan — Tue, 01 Jan 2008 00:39:26 GMT

I'm trying to figure out why this was posted . . . why is First Read continuing to hammer away at the comment that Senator Obama doesn't plan to run again . . . why is that a problem? If he said he would run again, he'd be one ambitious SOB. Now he's "a quitter". Folks, it's really not that deep. Promise.

Me thinks First Read may have been to one campaign speech to many - you don't have to report everytime they add a new sentence do ya? :)

Obama, Common Man?

voter Mesa, Az — Tue, 01 Jan 2008 01:09:12 GMT

Anyone but whiney Obama. Boy has he snowed alot of you people. He says the didn't have money 10 years ago but neither did the Clintons till he left the Presidence. They were not born with a silver spoon in their mouth either. After their statement that it is now or never running I say adios.

Obama, Common Man?

RobK, Seattle, Wash. — Tue, 01 Jan 2008 02:29:42 GMT

True.

A VOTE FOR EDWARDS IS A VOTE FOR HILLARY!

Even in his native N. carolina, he decided not to run for re-election b/c he wouldn't win.

Obama, Common Man?

Steve, Hartford, CT — Tue, 01 Jan 2008 04:37:47 GMT

Van, did you read that memo? Did you see the statistics? Obama is the best candidate in the race on the Dem side. I'm only more convinced now than I was before.

Here, everyone, see why Obama is the most electable candidate:

http://www.time.com/time/2007/thepage/Obama_Strategy.pdf

Thanks van, great link!

Happy New Year! Obama in '08!

Obama, Common Man?

MG, Spartanburgh, SC — Tue, 01 Jan 2008 09:48:23 GMT

No president can be perfect but America cannot go from one extreme (GWBush) to another extreme (BHObama). The experienced person can fail and there is greater probability that an Inexperienced person would fail. Obama is running for the presidency now, not because he is called for a vision, but because he is compelled by a favourable condition. His candidacy is not about hope. His hope is about his candidacy.
Obama as president would be more of Africa's pride than America's. It's not a bad thing but image branding and cultural symbolism would not be as nationalistic. Global reality dictates that for head of state, China will always prefer someone chinky-eyed; Africa will always prefer someone black, India will never have someone blonde and white.

Obama, Common Man?

Harry C — Tue, 01 Jan 2008 10:34:16 GMT

Mrs. Clinton always speaks farther from her audience than Mr. Obama does. She also spends more time attacking, gripping, grinning and posing afterward. She is the only candidate with a tendency to use the “when I’m president” construction, as opposed to “if I’m elected.” She prefers the pronouns “I” and “me,” whereas Mr. Obama is more prone to use “we” or “us” and Mr. Edwards “them.”
Simple actions speak more than a thousand words.

Mrs. Clinton gets by far the most autograph and photo requests. Obama is a common man for such hype.

Finally between the applause lines, one thing is certain. The nation has a chance for ‘real change’, after all the dynasties of Bush and Clintons, who belong to the same coin.

With a definite recession ahead in ’08, what the nation needs is fresh energy, change and attitude to stand up to the negative politics.

Obama, Common Man?

Dot, Illinois — Tue, 01 Jan 2008 14:04:17 GMT

Nashville Fan

I suppose I need to start this post by saying I will support Senator Obama if he wins the nomination. Now, perhaps this comment keeps getting attention because some people MAY BE CONFUSED by his comment about not running again in 8 years and even more so by his explanation of why?

Obama, Common Man?

Rufus Gibbons, DC — Tue, 01 Jan 2008 14:17:03 GMT

When I was growing up you would hear the expression "Don't get above your raising" it sounds like Mr Obama expects to do just that in another eight years. Franklin D. Roosevelt was born with a silver spoon in his mouth but had no problem relating to the poorest of us.

Obama, Common Man?

PulSamsara — Tue, 01 Jan 2008 19:49:13 GMT

Great.

I'm voting for Barack Obama.

It's time to Rise and Shine again.