First thoughts: Obama's momentum

Dot, Illinois — Tue, 01 Jan 2008 15:09:03 GMT

Yesterday, we spent some time with the so-called second tier on the Dem side.
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First Read

Hasn't anyone one been doing this all along? Does each candidate not have an assigned reporter?

First thoughts: Obama's momentum

Harold — Tue, 01 Jan 2008 15:18:34 GMT

"By the way, the poll also indicates that the possibility of Paul topping two major candidates -- Rudy and Thompson -- is very real. And if that happens, what does it mean?"

It means that the MSM propaganda machine is failing. It has always been "very real" and the MSM have been lying about it for months.

First thoughts: Obama's momentum

Diego E Santa Fe, NM — Tue, 01 Jan 2008 15:19:50 GMT

I wish I could be excited about Obama. I do think that MSNBC, and especially Chris Mathews have been O-Groupies for a time. I am not leaning towards O and find his "semi preachy crap" demeaning.

First thoughts: Obama's momentum

Phil C — Tue, 01 Jan 2008 15:24:11 GMT

It's Obama stupid! I am a three time Vet of the IRAQI war...I am now a state employee...I have three kids and a mortgage. Bottom line--this guy inspires me, he has the potential to light a fire under our younger generation...just like the Kennedy's did.

First thoughts: Obama's momentum

Sandra Scott — Tue, 01 Jan 2008 15:31:04 GMT

I am a Canadian political science student focusing on International Relations and I truly believe that Americans are more reasonable and intelligent than in the past and will look past race and gender to determine who they would like to represent them in the White House. I am female and I applaud any woman who has the drive to run for president, however, the fact that her husband Bill Clinton, who so terribly goofed up his stay in the White House, has too much involvement in her campaign. Sometimes, I wonder who really is running for president, him or her. I just dont trust that. Something just seems real fishy when he makes bold statements about him and Bush going off to do Int'l work. They really believe they have this thing in the bag. I hope the American public can see through their ruse. Like I said, I just dont trust them. Obama I like, he appears focused and deserves a chance to prove himself. I like the fact he is not being negative. Hillary need to back off the cheap shots. She tries to be subtle but we are not fools we see right through them. I strongly believe that if Hillary is elected, America will be receiving a very democratic form of republican administration...sigh!

First thoughts: Obama's momentum

laurie, St. Paul — Tue, 01 Jan 2008 15:32:02 GMT

Obama is pulling ahead because his message about change is the only one that makes sense. Voters united behind a working majority is our best and only hope for getting things done in DC. A two minute interview on CBS yesterday clearly shows Obamas vision and strength of character and why he will win.

First thoughts: Obama's momentum

stan — Tue, 01 Jan 2008 15:32:06 GMT

Yeah, MSM selective reporting and polling just google Frank Lunzt and learn about how corrupt polling is or for that matter who is paying for the polls the numbers they want!

No Opinions just the facts please MSM!
1. Ron Paul out raises all Republicans 4th quarter 2007'

2. Ron Paul Wins the Most Straw polls!

3. Ron Paul landslide lead in AOL National Poll!

4. Ron Paul wins National Caucus with 62.5 % Win and a 100% win in Kansas City!

5. Ron Paul has the most hits on the internet the most friends the most meet ups etc etc etc.....

6. Yeah the MSM can ignore the American People but we vote the winners not the MSM!

First thoughts: Obama's momentum

Mitchell Feldman, Vestal, NY — Tue, 01 Jan 2008 15:33:38 GMT

I think that the DMR poll (as do all polls) actually underestimates Obama's support as it can't acct. for the 'no land-line' student population who overwhelmingly support Obama. Start those engines. Fired up! Ready to go! It's all about Iowa!
Obama '08

First thoughts: Obama's momentum

cms — Tue, 01 Jan 2008 15:34:05 GMT

I just spent three days in Iowa -- mark my words, Ron Paul will come in at least fourth and perhaps even third.

First thoughts: Obama's momentum

Carrie, Eastern Iowa — Tue, 01 Jan 2008 15:34:52 GMT

If Biden and Richardson were drawing first-tier crowds, that seems to be a greater indication of their support than polls that almost everyone with any knowledge of the Iowa caucuses agrees are chronically inaccurate. But the MSM does not want to focus on that too much since they have put all their eggs in the Clinton/Obama/Edwards baskets.

With respect to the DMR poll, congrats to Obama for pulling ahead of the margin of error for the first time. Perhaps it will be telling.

First thoughts: Obama's momentum

joseph pierre, fort lauderdale, Fl — Tue, 01 Jan 2008 15:35:05 GMT

Obama all the way!I've been waiting for someone to get me inspired.I've found him.Edwards is a fake and HRC is soooo yesterday.

First thoughts: Obama's momentum

Bill — Tue, 01 Jan 2008 15:38:39 GMT

If you're a Democrat, you should be THRILLED that one of your guys appears to be attracting Independents and non-idealogue Republicans.

It should send a crystal-clear message: he's the most electable. Period.

Edwards won't have enough money to compete long-term.

HRC's one claim to the Presidency (her "experience") will look like my paper did this morning after the dog got to it: shredded. Add to that the fact that from day 1 of a national Presidential campaign, 50% of Americans will NOT vote for her (not because she's a woman but because she's a divisive phony). She's not electable.

First thoughts: Obama's momentum

Rankin Johnson, Houston, TX — Tue, 01 Jan 2008 15:38:58 GMT

If the Ron Paul works his way into a fourth or third place finish in Iowa, will that give him a big boost nationally? (The same observation often made about Obama, a boost from "legitimizing" a vote for him, should also apply to Paul.) Will Fox News then include Paul in their Jan 6 Forum, or would he still fail to pass some unpublished litmus test? If Obama wins Iowa, could he sweep the field after follow-up wins in NH & SC? If so, who might win for the Republicans in the general election?

First thoughts: Obama's momentum

U.Will C. — Tue, 01 Jan 2008 15:43:04 GMT

Bring it on.. hillaryclinton.com

First thoughts: Obama's momentum

S.K.M. Mass — Tue, 01 Jan 2008 15:44:31 GMT

Yepsin is right to emphasize the fluid nature of this race. The poll relied on voters who have landline phones, and many Obama voters do NOT use landlines. This problem is even more relevant to the other polls, like the one HRC's campaign is citing which shows her leading with 4 points.
Obama's lead is double the margin of error. With the prediction of good weather, so long as people still attend(and they SHOULD exercise their God-given right, I think Obama has a fantastic shot. Let's just see what HRC and JE's campaigns, HRC's especially, do when in panic mode. I smell some attacks coming from some 527.

First thoughts: Obama's momentum

Nashville_fan — Tue, 01 Jan 2008 15:55:39 GMT

I'm glad this poll shows Senator Obama in the lead - only time will tell if it's true, but I really hope it is! That being said, it's still a 3 way race and it's still anybody's game - can't wait til January 3rd!

First thoughts: Obama's momentum

tuck,realityville, kansas — Tue, 01 Jan 2008 15:56:24 GMT

Obama, the republican canidate!
The GOP wants the weakest canidate for the democratic nominee

THat's OBAMA.

(also note that First read skipped CLinton being the lead among Democrats>>>LOL)

First thoughts: Obama's momentum

Scott, Iowa — Tue, 01 Jan 2008 15:57:44 GMT

Chuck Todd, I have been following your comment and your move. You should read your comment first before airing it out. There is no professional marks at all. You will be the best Chris Matthew's successor someday once he out of the picture, have a great career in selling your heart and soul. Face the God, please. You just can't help yourself that you are Obama's kisser. Shame on you. I am not mad about the comment. I am mad about the way you comment. Some people told me DON'T TRUST FIRST READ, now I get it. Happy new year.

First thoughts: Obama's momentum

Sarah, Vienna, VA — Tue, 01 Jan 2008 15:57:50 GMT

Congratulations to Barack Obama!! 32% to 25% for Clinton and 24% for Edwards!!The Des Moines Register IS the GOLD STANDARD of Iowa Caucus polls. Their track record for getting the final results RIGHT is impeccable. In 2004, they were the poll that correctly predicted the Kerry win, Edwards second, and Dean third outcome. Saw the person in charge of the poll on CSPAN and she was very confident in their results. She also conducted the 100% accurate 2004 poll.

Happy New Year to everyone! And to all of the other enthusiastic Obama supporters out there, congratulations!! Looks like our candidate has a really good chance of winning Iowa! And as Chuck Todd has said all this political season, if Obama wins in Iowa, he will be very hard to stop!!

L

First thoughts: Obama's momentum

Tim, CT — Tue, 01 Jan 2008 15:58:27 GMT

Rankin, a few weeks ago, the MSM began saying that third place in IA meant something.

However, if it's Paul it will suddenly be irrelevant.

Even if the results are like this:

Undecided - 26%
Paul - 22%
Huckabee - 20%
Romney - 19%
McCain - 5%
Thompson - 4%
Giuliani - 4%

Then the MSM headline will be:

Huckabee edges out Romney. McCain, Thompson, Giuliani way behind. Paul gets fewer votes than "undecided."

I like Howard Fineman, but for an example of MSM bias... check out his interview of Dr. Paul. The look on Fineman's face when he interviewed Dr. Paul was unbelievable. At times during the interview, his distaste for the good Doctor was quite obvious.

First thoughts: Obama's momentum

Jade Pl. Davenport IA — Tue, 01 Jan 2008 16:00:08 GMT

A new CNN/Opinion Research Corporation poll out this morning has Clinton and Obama virtually tied for the lead in Iowa: Clinton is at 33 percent, Obama is at 28 percent, and Edwards trails with 22 percent.

MSNBC Chris Matthews is happy about this poll, he loves Obama, ever watch his biased show?
Obama more flip flopping and lies! His voting record shows that he supports the war, voted twice in 2006 against bringing America's troops back home. He votes for war appropriations as if giving our money to Halliburton and Blackwater is his sworn duty. His latest bit of posturing S 433 allows the Bush Administration to suspend any troop withdrawal, which if not suspended, still keeps the troops in Iraq for a long time to come. The suspension is written right into Section 4 (b). The bill tells Bush to bring the troops home some day unless he doesn't want to. The very name of the bill, "Iraq War De-Escalation Act of 2007" is a lie. This is par for the course for Obama. Bruce Dixon and Glen Ford of the Black Agenda Report have written articles exposing Obama's fraud in pretending to represent the interests of African-American voters. Before anyone believes that Obama cares about African-Americans, they should read, "Barack Obama and the Winds of War," "Putting Black Faces on Imperial Aggression," "Barack Obama: the Mania and the Mirage," "Barack Obama: Hypocrisy on Health Care," "The Barack and Hillary Show Plays Selma," "Black America's Real Issue With Barack Obama," and "Barack Obama vs. Charles Hamilton Houston." From these articles and others, readers can see Obama come down on the side of the oppressors of African-Americans. For someone whose ancestors owned black slaves, Obama tries to put pressure on African-Americans and fails. Al Sharpton's reaction to pressure to back Obama was, "I'm not going to be cajoled or intimidated by any candidate not for my support." Instead of supporting African American's Obama is into lying to them and intimidating them. What makes him different than others who oppress African-Americans? Paul Street exposes the real Barack Obama very clearly in his article, "The Obama Illusion." Street shows how Obama, a Hamiltonian believer in free trade and supporters of globalization has lent his support to the "...Hamilton Project, formed by corporate-neoliberal Citigroup chair Robert Rubin and other 'Wall Street Democrats' to counter populist rebellion against corporate tendencies within the Democratic Party... ," how Obama provided valuable assistance to pro-war candidates (such as Joe Lieberman), and how he criticized the filibuster proceedings against Samuel Alito. Street shows how Obama voted for "... a business-friendly 'tort reform' bill that rolls back working peoples' ability to obtain reasonable redress and compensation..." from corporations. Obama considers single payer universal health care too socialist and has stated that he prefers voluntary solutions. Street's article goes on to discuss Obama's support for other aspects of the neo-con agenda, including neo-con propaganda against African-American culture.

Obama voted to bring low-cost foreign labor into New Orleans after Hurricane Katrina. This was a slap in the face against the African-Americans who were displaced in that city. Obama also voted to place Michael Cheftoff, the man responsible for the Katrina catastrophe, in charge of Homeland Security. Obama voted for the bills that gave Blackwater the funding they needed to shoot the people of New Orleans who were only trying to save their own lives. He voted to allow Michael Chetoff to waive all laws, including murder, torture and kidnapping.

In voting for the Real ID Act, Obama voted to end political asylum for people seeking shelter in this country because of terrorism at home.

African-Americans consider Dennis Kucinich, not Obama, to be their candidate. See Bruce Dixon's article "Is Dennis Kucinich the "black candidate?"

Obama voted more than five times for USA-PATRIOT's renewal. This is a bill that is patently offensive to most Americans. City after city has passed resolutions condemning USA-PATRIOT. Obama chose to side with tyranny over freedom and Bush over the people on this issue. The Real ID Act, which would allow Michael Cheftoff to declare martial law and imprison all Americans, was supported by Obama, as noted above.

Obama's record on choice is less than 50%. He pretends to be pro-choice while voting for anti-choice justices who have vowed to end choice. Obama even voted for cloture on Priscilla Owen, a justice Alberto Gonzales felt was too far to the right.

First thoughts: Obama's momentum

C.B. — Tue, 01 Jan 2008 16:01:11 GMT

The De Moins Register poll is "bogus". The real "momentum" right "now" is going to Hillary Clinton. come see why... hillaryclinton.com

First thoughts: Obama's momentum

Andrea — Tue, 01 Jan 2008 16:01:18 GMT

10 Barack Obama Facts That Will Impress Your Yale Friends

Barack Obama was born in Honolulu, Hawaii, August 4, 1961.

Barack studied law at Harvard University, where he became the first African American president of the Harvard Law Review.

In the first month of the newly Democratic-controlled 110th Congress, Obama worked with Russ Feingold (D–WI) to eliminate gifts of travel on corporate jets by lobbyists to members of Congress and require disclosure of bundled campaign contributions under the "Honest Leadership and Open Government Act", which was signed into law in September 2007.

Obama was elected to the Illinois State Senate in 1996.

Before announcing his presidential candidacy, he began a well-publicized effort to quit smoking. "I've never been a heavy smoker," Obama told the Chicago Tribune. "I've quit periodically over the last several years. I've got an ironclad demand from my wife that in the stresses of the campaign I don't succumb. I've been chewing Nicorette strenuously.”

Obama's mother died of ovarian cancer a few months after the publication of his 1995 memoir, Dreams from My Father.

Obama wrote and delivered the keynote address at the 2004 Democratic National Convention in Boston, Massachusetts, while still serving as a state legislator.

Obama's parents separated when he was two years old and later divorced.

Obama met his future wife Michelle Robinson in 1988 when he was employed as a summer associate at the Chicago law firm of Sidley & Austin.

Obama sponsored 152 bills and resolutions brought before the 109th Congress in 2005 and 2006, and cosponsored another 427.

From:

http://www.cattlenetwork.com/content.asp?contentid=186960

First thoughts: Obama's momentum

Dave, Fairfax, VA — Tue, 01 Jan 2008 16:02:27 GMT

Ron Paul is a loon.

First thoughts: Obama's momentum

Carrie, Eastern Iowa — Tue, 01 Jan 2008 16:04:23 GMT

It's interesting that the Obama blog completely downplayed the DMR poll, listing all the reasons why it would be inaccurate. Of course, they also said that it would be wrong unless it showed him ahead.

Talk about hedging your bets. If we are not ahead in the poll, it's because the poll is faulty. If we are ahead in the poll, then the poll is a great indication of our support.

First thoughts: Obama's momentum

Andrea, Plano, Texas — Tue, 01 Jan 2008 16:10:59 GMT

Obama fans, this Des Moines Register poll showing him winning by 7 points is amazing He's outside the margin of error! Wow! Wow! Wow!

This is the all-important poll. This is the poll that got it right in 2004 by predicting the Kerry win. This poll is such great news for the Obama campaign, because if you have followed these caucuses in the past, you know that this is the poll that is really taken seriously because of its accuracy and reliability in predicting the final outcome as to who the winner will be.

I'm doing my happy dance!! Go, Obama!!

First thoughts: Obama's momentum

Bonnie, Houston, TX — Tue, 01 Jan 2008 16:11:07 GMT

The only reason Obama has gained momentum is because of the likes of Chris Matthews. These news groupies (they're certainly not reporters) refuse to address Obama on TUCC-Chicago and promotion of their "Black Values System" - his church's racist agenda, and his pastor's ties with Louis Farakkhan. The very recent murder of their gay choir director was buried by the press. It is scary that MSM is handing the entire country the mentality and lifestyle of the Southside of Chicago. I never thought I would be praying for a Republican landslide. Meanwhile, back at the ranch - Pakistan is imploding with nuclear warheads, and MSM is leading a chorus of "All We Need Is Love" to the latest Obama "hope/hype". When we so desparately need a President that undertands REAL issues and has experience in foreign affairs - again, MSM is doing us in by promoting an "American Idol" political show. Makes you wonder whose side they are on, doesn't it?

First thoughts: Obama's momentum

Mark G. Atl., Ga. — Tue, 01 Jan 2008 16:16:08 GMT

Wow! Hillary supporters quoting George Bush!Bring it on.. hillaryclinton.com Now Hillary's supporters have stooped so low that they use George Bush's slogans he used to take this nation to an endless war in Iraq. Which as we all know Hillary spoke forcefully in support of prior to her supporting vote. Hillary Clinton. More of the same.

First thoughts: Obama's momentum

Charley, Edgewood, NM — Tue, 01 Jan 2008 16:17:27 GMT

The youth movrment in Iowa, (The non-land line studets,etc) will push Obama Way over the top, with Edwards a close second andHRC somewhat of a distand 3rd. We cannot have another republicrat in the Whitehouse... We need change, and change NOW!!!

First thoughts: Obama's momentum

Concerned Citizen, Sioux City, IA — Tue, 01 Jan 2008 16:18:02 GMT

So Obama wins Iowa,he will fizzle out, look at the national polls.
Also Americans and there are plenty of strong, rich Americans who will not stand for an inexperienced, novice jut out of the Illinois State Senate to be in charge of our Country. How crazy are you people and all of my fellow Iowans who support him?
He is incapable of leading our country just as Mike Huckabee is.
Mike Bloomberg and Chuck Hagel are poised to run on an Independent ticket should Obama and Huckabee by some slim chance get the nominations, that won't happen though. and Mike Huckabee is such a joke and a farce also.
The nomination will come down to Hillary Clinton and
Mitt Romney. They are the most qualified across the Board. Dream on Obama supporters, he's not gonna cut it, I doubt he will even in Iowa but we'll see. David Yepsin of the Des Moines Register even doubts those latest Polls are accurate.

First thoughts: Obama's momentum

s.b. — Tue, 01 Jan 2008 16:20:36 GMT

And four other polls done at the same time put Clinton in the lead. An average of polls, including this one puts her in the lead as well. These numbers count on record numbers of men, independents, republicans and young people to turn out for the Iowa caucuses in numbers never before seen in history. That's a lot of bets to place. But what does the media report today??? Not the four other polls based on a more reliable demographic, the Demoines reegister poll, which was out by 11% last time for the democratic race. I predict Obama will come third, Clinton first. This election will change a lot of things about history, youth voter turnout, male voter turnout during a college bowl game and republican/independent turn out for Democratic caucus wont be any of them.

First thoughts: Obama's momentum

Gary Lyons — Tue, 01 Jan 2008 16:22:40 GMT

Wasn't Hillary up in the polls 2-1 one week a ago? What ever happened to this 'inevitability' of hers? How does the 'inevitable' candidate manage to lose the first two primary states?

First thoughts: Obama's momentum

Caroline, Bethesda, MD — Tue, 01 Jan 2008 16:24:29 GMT

What does a political junkie do on New Year's Eve?

Take a break from partying at 10PM to check their computer for the release of the all-important Des Moines Register poll!

Yes, I actually did that last night! And I was so thrilled when I saw Barack Obama with 32%!! He has a seven point lead over Hillary, and eight over Edwards!

Why did I take the time to check this particular poll? Because, as a certifiable political junkie, I know that this poll is THE poll. This poll has an outstanding record of predicting the winner of the Iowa Caucuses. If this poll shows Obama not just winning, but leading by seven points, (well outside the margin of error), then you can be pretty confident that he is going to win!

It was a very good New Year's Eve for us Obama supporters!

First thoughts: Obama's momentum

merri — Tue, 01 Jan 2008 16:27:58 GMT

I was reading the blogs on Obama's site yesterday, and everyone was anxiously waiting for this poll. There were rumors out there, and people were actually calling the Des Moines Register to find out if the poll had been released yet. Obama's supporters are FIRED UP!!!!

First thoughts: Obama's momentum

Daniel, NY — Tue, 01 Jan 2008 16:29:58 GMT

The CNN poll that just came out this morning has very different results in Iowa, with Clinton and Romney ahead: http://www.campaigndiaries.com/2008/01/7-days-from-new-hampshire-all-eyes-are.html

First thoughts: Obama's momentum

RAH — Tue, 01 Jan 2008 16:30:58 GMT

I wonder what JE and HC would have said if the DMR had them in the lead? I don't trust the CNN polls since they are always slanted to benefit Hilary.

Only time will tell. I wonder what the whining will be when Obama wins Iowa? I guess they'll poo poo that too.

First thoughts: Obama's momentum

Truesdell, NY NY — Tue, 01 Jan 2008 16:34:50 GMT

Regarding the list of facts about Obama listed above, the poster overlooked the most important FACT about his education, namely that the COLLEGE he graduated from was...

COLUMBIA!

Roar Lion Roar!

First thoughts: Obama's momentum

jb, okc — Tue, 01 Jan 2008 16:39:35 GMT

To those who thinks Chris Mathews and Chuck Todd are pro Obama. What is it? You want all the media to be pro Clinton. CNN is definitely pro Clinton. It is obvious that Wolf Blitzer does not like Obama. The things Blitzer says and how he says it gives me the impression he is racist. What do you have to say about that?

First thoughts: Obama's momentum

Michael, New Jersey — Tue, 01 Jan 2008 16:46:56 GMT

Obama is probably a great guy. To be honest, I like him better than Edwards because Edwards seems obessed with being president. However, it won't happen. I am italian and know I don't stand a chance of being president if qualified. Neither does a jew or hispanic or muslim, etc. Biden is Hillary's worst nightmare because he wrote half of the bills and the kosovo plan that Clinton gets credit for. That is why him and Hill are such good friends. Biden is the only Dem who can beat her and would probably pick Hagel as V.P.My prediction 1)Hillary, 2.) Edwards, and 3.) Biden.

First thoughts: Obama's momentum

jb, okc — Tue, 01 Jan 2008 16:47:12 GMT

Daniel of NY what do you expect from CNN polls. As I mentioned earlier, they are pro Clinton. One should believe the Des Moines Register polls, after all they endorsed Clinton and if they were going to skew the polls, it would be in her favor.

First thoughts: Obama's momentum

Bunzigiye Yussa — Tue, 01 Jan 2008 16:48:08 GMT

As an african i had tried to understand the strategy of Clinton Bill on the issue of his wife intervention on the genocide, and frankly i did not see the intervention on behalf of the victim of genocide ,what i know is that the Clintons Hillary and Bill went to Rwanda as tourist to visite the Genocide Memorial and they said Sorry to have not acted quickly to stop the gencide,now i do not know the visite to the memorial sight qualify Hillary to have experience on crisis around the world and remenber these were women being Killed while she was the first lady where was her compassion for fellow women. thanks

First thoughts: Obama's momentum

Bunzigiye Yussa — Tue, 01 Jan 2008 16:48:08 GMT

First thoughts: Obama's momentum

Nashville_fan — Tue, 01 Jan 2008 16:58:34 GMT

To Michael from New Jersey:

Do not be afraid - you can be anything you want to be - the only thing holding you back is you! We will never get something new if we don't even try. Of all the reasons to support or not support Senator Obama, the color of his skin is not one of them.

First thoughts: Obama's momentum

Jon — Tue, 01 Jan 2008 17:10:25 GMT

Does anyone really think that only 55% of those present at the Democratic caucuses will be Democrats- and the rest will be independants with 5% Republicans? Thats the turnout assumption made by the new register poll. That poll they did in 04- made no such assumption - because if it had, it would have been off. Anyone reading this should look up what percantage of Democrat caucus goers in 04 were Indepedants or Republicans. Trust me - it ain't nowhere near 45%. Furthermore - the DMR poll assumes far to great a youth participation.

First thoughts: Obama's momentum

Wesley, Fairfield, CT — Tue, 01 Jan 2008 17:17:52 GMT

It's like the Stuart and Tudor dynasties...Bush-Clinton-Bush-Clinton...America has had enough of them...time for a change!!

First thoughts: Obama's momentum

Lori, Central CA — Tue, 01 Jan 2008 17:20:32 GMT

I can't wait for caucus night. Everyone from both sides will be in for surprises and we'll see how wrong the MSM has been.

First thoughts: Obama's momentum

C McCoy, Los Angeles, CA — Tue, 01 Jan 2008 17:26:03 GMT

Anyone claiming Hillary somehow has the most "experience" because she had tea with a few dignitaries is deluding themselves. If you want experience, vote for Biden, Dodd, or Richardson. All three have more real experience than Hillary. If you want change, vote for Edwards or Obama. If you want 8 more years of corporate teat-sucking, vote for Hillary.

I feel sorry for the GOP, they really have a rogues gallery of unelectable candidates this year, and the only one with a chance of winning (Guliani) the evangelicals will stop themselves. Romney can't duck his flip-flopper act. Huckabee is a religious zealot with a lot of fake charm. Ron Paul is a closet white supremacist. Fred Thompson is too lazy to be bothered.

First thoughts: Obama's momentum

bc Indiana — Tue, 01 Jan 2008 17:28:38 GMT

Ron Paul on foreign policy. Let's just get out of there and look after Americans.

That's like sticking your head in the sand so someone can kick you in the ass that much harder.

First thoughts: Obama's momentum

Sierra, SF — Tue, 01 Jan 2008 17:34:07 GMT

Thank you: Jade Pl. Davenport IA, tuck,realityville, kansas, Bonnie, Houston, TX.........

What would this campaign be without smears from the Clinton camp ?
Hillary said: 'Now the fun part begins'.....
What do you think THAT meant ?
Smears from Bill Shaheen, Bob Kerry, and Hillary's own campaign manager, Mark Penn on national TV.

Scott, Iowa, C.B., Concerned Citizen, Sioux City, IA....
Keep on sniveling !! It sounds like a real tragedy when your candidate isn't on top.....

It's only one poll, but the most reliable
A 7% win in the first real contest would completely shake up the race
It would make Obama the front runner
It would give Obama REAL MOMENTUM going into NH
A win there would start to strip away the African American support from Hillary and bring them to Obama
That's already started happening in South Carolina
(Thank you, Oprah !!)

Come on back, Oprah !!
Let's do a couple more tours !!

In 2000 and 2004 we nominated some real stiffs
Gore-Lieberman ? John Kerry ?
WE CAN DO BETTER !!

Obama/Edwards '08
Real Integrity, Real Change

First thoughts: Obama's momentum

LT Thomas — Tue, 01 Jan 2008 17:39:35 GMT

bc Indiana --> Ron Paul on foreign policy. Let's just get out of there and look after Americans.

That's like sticking your head in the sand so someone can kick you in the ass that much harder. <--

Perfect analogy!

First thoughts: Obama's momentum

Sierra, SF — Tue, 01 Jan 2008 17:42:05 GMT

Wesley, Fairfield, CT: '....It's like the Stuart and Tudor dynasties...Bush-Clinton-Bush-Clinton...America has had enough of them...time for a change!!....'

Thanks, Wesley !!
But the Stuarts and Tudors couldn't have been as crooked, unethical and incompetent as those Bush + Clinton clowns !!

Barack is on CNN now
He thinks 2008 is gonna be a good year !!

He introduced his campaign staff
What a great sight !

OBAMA '08

TURN THE PAGE

First thoughts: Obama's momentum

J. Franklin, Denver, CO — Tue, 01 Jan 2008 17:45:17 GMT

While democrats have at least five respectable candidates, this poll is revealing. Note that the Clinton campaign is not disputing WHO most independents and a small number or republicans are supporting, but rather IF they will actually show up and caucus for Obama. Obama's draw in this regard would be critical in a general election, and, if nothing else, this poll's numbers are at odds with Clinton and Edwards' "electability" arguments. Democrats will vote for whoever the nominee is. The question is whether any of the 3 can legitimately draw others. And the question will be even more important if Bloomberg jumps in. I'm happy with any of the 3, but Obama's our best bet!

First thoughts: Obama's momentum

George — Tue, 01 Jan 2008 17:49:51 GMT

After the Des Moine Register poll with Obama LEADING by 6 points....anything less will look like a loss for Barack.

He better win big or it's a loss for him.

First thoughts: Obama's momentum

eNews Reference — Tue, 01 Jan 2008 17:50:44 GMT

I think Obama is ahead. Determining the margin is difficult at this stage in the race...To put Obama up right before the caucus takes place is big for the Obama camp

First thoughts: Obama's momentum

Doug Thompson, Newton, Iowa — Tue, 01 Jan 2008 17:51:29 GMT

I've attended Barack's and Michelle's speeches in Newton, Iowa. Listen to both of them. You don't come out with just a political message. You come out with a feeling of warmth from hearing about the lives of two talented individuals that decided to put community ahead of their self interests. I truly look forward to the opportunity to caucus for him Jan. 3.

First thoughts: Obama's momentum

Rick,ky — Tue, 01 Jan 2008 17:51:32 GMT

1st of all, Happy New Year to everyone.When i opened 1st read this morning, I was Pleasantly surprised to see Barack doing so well in the latest DMR poll.As a Barack supporter, it gave me Hope, that the Voter's of Iowa have listened to all candidate's & are going to give the nod to Barack.Although some on here are trying to Downplay this poll, it's evident that Barack has captured the mind of ordinary( like you & me)people.2008 is gonna be a gr88888888 year, in my household, with this news.It's already been a gr8 morning.
Van, come along, we'll forgive you for your support of Hillary. You also, Dickie, & Simon, & Big Al, & can't forget Mr Realalityville, Tuck.Reality is here!!!!!!!!!!

First thoughts: Obama's momentum

Steve — Tue, 01 Jan 2008 17:53:19 GMT

Um, Jon at 12:10, I hate to have to point out the obvious, but the reason they didn't use the 2004 turnout model is that this isn't 2004. There is no incumbent or serving V.P. running for the first time since 1952. Except for Edwards, there are repeat runners from 2004. And, in case you've been a castaway for the last four years, a lot of stuff has happened that has changeed the political dynamic since 2004.

First thoughts: Obama's momentum

PulSamsara — Tue, 01 Jan 2008 18:02:23 GMT

I'm voting for Barack Obama.

Barack Obama for President of the United States of America.

It's time for America to Rise and Shine again.

First thoughts: Obama's momentum

Anyone but Obama — Tue, 01 Jan 2008 18:02:59 GMT

I'm listening to Obama on CNN right now. Saw his wife last night.

It's all about what the problems are in this country but absolutely NO SPECIFIC PLAN to fix them other than all that baloney about hope, change, a new beginning.

What does that mean? Where are the specifics. I want to puke everytime I hear Barack spout his empty rhetoric.

It's all about him. Last night his wife talked about problems but no solutions other than hope. She talked all about Obama and how great he was. It sounded like just so much hype and it was. We're not stupid, we know WHAT the problems are. We want the EXACT POLICY THAT WILL BRING ABOUT CHANGE.

ALL THE CANDIDATES KNOW THE PROBLEMS...Obama and his egotistical wife do not have a "lock" on that and wanting change.

Personally I don't give a rat's a$$ about Obama's personality. I want to know EXACTLY what he will do to bring about the pie in the sky "change" he talks incessantly about.

We've already been down that inexperienced personality crap with George Bush. The voters were hood winked in 2000 and 2004. Are we so stupid that we will let it happen again???????????

Barack Hussien Obama is a fake!

First thoughts: Obama's momentum

Kristoph, WA — Tue, 01 Jan 2008 18:08:25 GMT

I am a Clinton supporter but I I think if indeed Obama can pull so many independents into his camp then he does deserve to win.

I mean, if he can be elected, in a Democratic primary, by essentially independants and Republicans (the Democrats favour Hilary according to the poll) then that is a huge demographic shift. It would mean a sure Democratic presidency.

That said, not even the Obama camp believes those numbers ...

http://marcambinder.theatlantic.com/archives/2007/12/my_one_question_about_the_regi.php

First thoughts: Obama's momentum

Bill Braskey NH — Tue, 01 Jan 2008 18:08:34 GMT

Hillary is going to win NH putting and end to the joke that is Barack Obama.

It can't come soon enough because you empty headed, idiot Obama supporters annoy the piss out of me.

Oh and don't think I won't rub it in.

First thoughts: Obama's momentum

Ann, Jackson, MS — Tue, 01 Jan 2008 18:09:07 GMT

I have always voted Democrat for President. My first presidential vote was for President/Vice President was Bill Clinton and Al Gore. If Barack Obama win the Democrat presidential nod, I will look to support a third party candidate.

First thoughts: Obama's momentum

Nashville_fan — Tue, 01 Jan 2008 18:18:29 GMT

lol Bill Braskey, NH!

It is amazing how such an "empty message" resonates so much with the American people! Your wise and well worded post will surely attract many undecided voters to Hillary - well done! :)

P.S. I am sure you will rub it in - that's just what bully's do. Way to "come together" for the general election! (This is the "style" that rubs so many folks the wrong way - but whatever works, right?)

First thoughts: Obama's momentum

alberto — Tue, 01 Jan 2008 18:19:29 GMT

IF DEMOCRATS WANT TO KEEP LOSING THE WHITE HOUSE..PLEASE CONTINUE TO DO SO BY GOING WITH BARACK OBAMA.I LIVED IN IOWA FOR 8 YEARS AND I KNOW AT THE END OF THE DAY, IOWANS ARE WAY MUCH SMARTER THAN THAT ANB DO CARE ABOUT THEIR COUNTRY. THERE'S NO WAY OBAMA CAN WIN IN THE GENERAL ELECTION. THE REPUBLICAN SPIN MACHINE WILL DESTROY HIM IN THE REMAINING 10 MONTHS. DEMOCRATS TOO OFTEN ACT WITH THEIR HEART NOT THEIR HEAD....THEREFORE TOO EMOTIONAL. IF DEMOCRATS AGAIN WANT TO CONTINUE BEING PERPETUAL LOSERS...JUST NOMINTAE BARACK HUSSEIN OBAMA...AND YOU ARE GUARANTEE A MCCAIN OR A GUILIANI IN THE WH FOR THE NEXT 16 YEARS. OBAMA THINKS ONLY HE KNOWS ABOUT CHANGE...HE WANTS TO CREATE A REVOLUTION IN THIS COUNTRY....WE NEED INCREMENTAL CHANGE....NOT IDEALISTIC CHANGE..CHANGE THAT WILL NEVER TAKEN PLACE. HE LIVES IN DYSNEYLAND AND WE CANNOT AFFORD A CANDIDATE WHO HAS NOT BEEN TESTED. WELL IOWANS THE FATE OF THIS NATION IS YOUR HANDS...BE WISE AND GO WITH YOUR HEAD.....THIS IS DANGEROUS TIME AND WE CANNOT ROLE A DICE WITH OUR CHILDREN'S LIVES. THURSDAY IT WILL HILLARY 35%, EDWARDS 32% AND OBAMA 30%. AND NOVEMBER 2008 WILL BE CLINTON/BAYH. THAT'S THE WINNING TICKET..AS FOR THE DES MOINES POLL...HAHAHAHA...IT IS JUST COMMERCIAL.....THEY TAKE THEMSELVES TOO SERIOUSLY....UNFORTUNATELY....MSNBC..YEAH....KEEP CHEERING FOR OBAMA.....WE'LL HAVE A TALK AFTER THE ELECTION....

First thoughts: Obama's momentum

Cynthia Bloomberg — Tue, 01 Jan 2008 18:20:19 GMT

Jan, 01, 2008-Democratic Presidential Nomination
Average
Clinton(44.4%)Obama (25.0%) Edwards(22%)

Clinton +19.4% UNCHANGED!

even if obama would win Iowa he cannot win in a general election, especially after the Racial side show he and oprah turned the election into, I was favoring obama, until he make the fatal error when losing in the polls, did the "OJ" DANCE pulled out oprah and race card. It prompted me to research him more and I was SHOCKED! to see what mainstream media isnt telling you about a potential Presidental candidate!
*Obama’s health care plan includes a mandate to insure children, but it does not include a mandate for adults, as the Clinton and Edwards plans do. That likely means not as many people will be insured, to call his plan “universal” Well,is lieing.

*Last year he cosponsored an ethics reform bill and was the Democratic point man for drumming up more cosponsors. Joining him in cosponsorship were Hillary Clinton, Chris Dodd and Joe Biden. That bill did not make it out of committee, but another, less stringent, ethics reform bill did pass the Senate. That bill, authored by Sen. Trent Lott, R-Miss., passed, but Obama can’t take credit for that one. He didn’t even vote for it.
***“Without a doubt,” Obama said in a memo, “President Bush can cite that language as authorizing him to maintain and use U.S. troops in Iraq for the purpose of containing Iran, curtailing Iran’s influence in Iraq, and, if need be, to expand our troops’ activities beyond Iraq’s borders to pursue and attack Iranian forces.” Opponents attack Obama's record of opposition on two grounds. They argue that Obama should answer definitively how he would have voted if were in the Senate at the time of the vote. Obama said in 2004 he can't answer that question.
*Obama joined the U.S. Senate in 2005. He has voted several times to continue funding for the war.
*He's leading by example, refusing contributions from PACs and Washington lobbyists who have too much power today."
But his anti-lobbyist policy includes one caveat and a few loopholes that weaken his claim to be funding his political campaign in a way that's truly different from his competitors.
He almost always qualifies his statement to note that he won't take money from federal lobbyists, a distinction that allows him to accept money from well-connected state lobbyists.
For example, South Florida lobbyist Russ Klenet and his wife will host a fundraising event in Broward County for Obama on August 25. Klenet represents state groups such as the Florida Association of Mortgage Brokers, but also companies such as Match.com and Election Systems & Software.
And Obama still accepts tens of thousands of dollars from people who work for Washington firms that do substantial lobbying. Former Senate Majority Leader Tom Daschle is an Obama contributor who isn't a registered lobbyist, but works as a consultant for Alston & Bird, a lobbying firm in Washington.
The Center for Responsive Politics found that Obama accepted $55,019 from employees at lobbying firms, and much more from companies that are not classified as lobbying firms but have lobbying divisions.
*African-Americans have yet to give overwhelming support to White House hopeful Sen. Barack Obama just because hes black, Mrs. Obama playing into the old racist "one-drop" theory? she thinks blacks should accept him because he is part black? She states blacks need to wake up? we want to show our black community we can do this,” Michelle Obama said. .hey Obama’s " Why do you need a “black value system” if Jesus already provides a value system for ALL God’s children.The following statement by Michelle Obama is quoted from an interview in Iowa this past weekend. Boy it’s really pretty up here in IOWA but she said, ‘But you know, I can see why if I was living out here, I’d want a gun. This comment by the Senator’s wife was not widely reported in any media sources. Makes you wonder, if this statement had been made, Harlem, by the wife of any Republican candidate, Sharpton would be branding her a racist.

Major doubts over Barack Obama’s foreign policy credentials after it emerged that he had made only one brief official visit to London – and none elsewhere in Western Europe or Latin America. reports show that Mr Obama had failed to convene a single policy meeting of the Senate European subcommittee, of which he is chairman. There was also strikingly robust criticism from an independent Washington think-tank about a 'disconcerting void' over transatlantic relations in Mr Obama’s foreign policy, as well as from a former British Minister for Europe. "Mr Obama’s advisers claim he has an 'intuitive grasp' of world affairs. Like G. Bush Obama as too raw for the presidency.
*****After The New York Times published a story Thursday reporting that Obama voted “present” — instead of yes or no — almost 130 times,

First thoughts: Obama's momentum

Stella — Tue, 01 Jan 2008 18:24:59 GMT

What a thrill for Obama and MSNBC. I will avoid watching Chris Matthews, Chuck Todd and Morning Joe` for a few days or until Hillary wins the nomination.

First thoughts: Obama's momentum

nadeem, Toronto, Ontario, Canada — Tue, 01 Jan 2008 18:32:56 GMT

I am shocked by those who dislike the fact the Obama has the independent vote and getting 5% republican vote on the one hand and then state he cant win in the general. This is EXACTLY how you win in the general. The dems will vote for him, the winner is the one who has the best chance of winning over the independents and moderate republicans. Obama has proven he is the man to do this, and thus in the best position to win in the general.

First thoughts: Obama's momentum

Marbw — Tue, 01 Jan 2008 18:33:20 GMT

---------Opinion Research, an infoUSA company
CNN has contracted their polling to infoUSA’s Opinion Research. infoUSA is run by Vinod Gupta, an ardent Clinton supporter who infuriated his own shareholders by giving Bill Clinton millions of dollars of infoUSA’s money in the form of trips to Acapulco and generous “consulting fees”.

----------------------------------------------------
The reason that pollsters typically avoid polling around the holidays is the assumption that a big chunk of the population is away from home and unavailable for survey calls. As with any sort of "non-response" problem, we risk getting skewed or biased results if the missing respondents are both numerous and different in terms of their political views from those at home when we call.

What kinds of voters might be missing right now? Three years ago, in a survey concluded a full week before the holidays (12/15-17/2004), the Gallup Organization asked a national sample of 1,002 adults whether they planned "to travel more than fifty miles from home this holiday season." Twenty-eight percent (28%) said "yes." More important, as the table below indicates (based on data drawn from the Roper Archives), those planning holiday travel had a very distinctive demographic profile. Holiday travelers were much more likely to be younger and better educated. Notice also that holiday travelers were not just college students. Adults between the ages of 30 and 44 are twice as likely to travel for the holidays than those over 65. (Also, while I do not show it here, the pattern in these results by age, education and income was nearly identical for Democratic and Republican identifiers).

http://www.pollster.com/blogs/polling_on_the_dark_side_of_th.php

First thoughts: Obama's momentum

Concerned Citizen — Tue, 01 Jan 2008 18:35:57 GMT

Wolf Blitzer is certainly not racist. I really think He is married to an African American.

You people are just crazy.

Give it up, Obama is inexperienced and incapable and who isn't biased against him based on that.
Chuck Todd probably is not for Obama either, truth be told but his professional association with Chris Matthews, both work for NBC, almost forces him to agree with Matthews, I have seen him pull back at times.
What's with Matthews? He spits and sputters and is
a lunatic when it comes to Clinton. Bonnie from Houston in her post on here has it right on.
Go Bonnie!!! Louis Farracon and Obama? I hadn't heard that one but I don't doubt it for one minute

First thoughts: Obama's momentum

spackle, Pennsylvania — Tue, 01 Jan 2008 18:36:59 GMT

The DMR's latest is certainly good news. I suspect that the actual results on caucus night will be a bit better than this, perhaps a lot better depending on how the second-choice support from other candidate reps shakes out.

My hunch is that it'll be Obama first by 10-12 points, with HRC and Edwards bunched up closely. They are both the least electable of the trio, and Iowa is sorting that out finally, realizing that it would be the height of stupidity for Democrats to nominate either someone who couldn't carry even his home state the last time, or someone who starts the race with half of the country disliking her.

It's interesting to me that this is the first day of a new year, and exactly 40 years after that epochal and awful year that saw the Tet offensive, Johnson deciding to forego reelection, Martin Luther King Jr's death in April and the Bobby Kennedy's two months later, and violent rioting and fires breaking out all over the country. That was when hope died, in that kitchen floor in Los Angeles.

I've been waiting for 40 years for someone to come along who could inspire a nation and lift up the downtrodden. Obama is that person. Hang in there, Iowa. We're counting on you.

Stand up for change. Hope is not a dirty word.

First thoughts: Obama's momentum

Phillip — Tue, 01 Jan 2008 18:38:13 GMT

It is striking to me to see that still some people believe that Obama cannot win solely because he is "black". Actually he is bi-racial and should not be classified either or.
Does it not give our country a sense of hope that a non-white man with the name of Obama could be our nations president? How many other nations go against the status quo in regards to thier majorities in race and gender? Not many.
that aside Obama appeals to America's thirst for change. Most moderate republicans would agree that the last 8 years have a certain feeling of "empire" to them.
Some of our greatest presidents and leaders were not elected for their experience solely. Regan was a governor with no foreign policy experience yet he led the country through the cold war. The same is true with other presidents who are former governors.
A President is someone who is fit for the times. There is high time for a shake up in Washington. Obama is not the only candidate that can effect change, but he is the most charismatic and the one who most inspires hope. If change were to sole characteristic one is looking for then Ron Paul is your guy. Ron Paul may be a drastic changer in regards to his platform, but unfortunately he does not inspire.
The Clinton's want to bring back "Camelot", but there is something about HRC that rubs me more Madame Medusa.
Only time can tell. We should all prey that at least we can keep out the hawks this time around.

First thoughts: Obama's momentum

Marbw — Tue, 01 Jan 2008 18:41:11 GMT

ISSUES
http://www.barackobama.com/issues/

factcheck
http://www.barackobama.com/factcheck/category/

Barack Obama speaking about his healthcare plan

http://link.brightcove.com/services/link/bcpid353515028/bctid1353531388

First thoughts: Obama's momentum

Fred C Dobbs Sierra Madre, New Mexico — Tue, 01 Jan 2008 18:46:42 GMT

I wonder how people can accept a person as a candidate of change who voted "present" on over 100 occasions in the Illinois state senate.
I want a proven leader. I want someone with proven experience.
I want a sure winner.
I will be voting for Hillary Clinton.

First thoughts: Obama's momentum

John Galt, Colorado — Tue, 01 Jan 2008 18:49:41 GMT

First thoughts: Obama's momentum

Eugene Atabs, Frankfort, KY — Tue, 01 Jan 2008 18:52:06 GMT

Obama is a nice guy, but he is not ready to be president now. Republicans will rip him to pieces in the general election. It is not for nothing that some Republicans want to caucus for him and Fox News is touting his candidacy. I am independent and must say Democrats must be very careful as they pick a nominee for their party.

Eugene Atabs

First thoughts: Obama's momentum

G.Stern,Ft.Lauderdale, Fl. — Tue, 01 Jan 2008 18:53:09 GMT

I am amazed that the Clinton's whined about too many Independents being polled by the DMR !! My goodness.... how do you expect to win the election without the support of the Independent vote and disenchanted Republicans ?? Even 44% of the Democratic Party will not support a Hill/Bill candidacy!! HRC is not electable!!
I will be proud and honored to support the vibrant...exciting... intelligent Obama's into our White House.
What a historic day for us.... and the World.

First thoughts: Obama's momentum

Bruce Williams, Pasdena, CA — Tue, 01 Jan 2008 18:53:12 GMT

Ron Paul has the momentum like no one else. He has come from nowhere, using only the support of the people, not the media.

Go Ron Paul!

First thoughts: Obama's momentum

Tareli, Fuquay Varina NC — Tue, 01 Jan 2008 18:54:12 GMT

To Anyone But Obama, you hit the nail on the head!
I would like to know exactly HOW Obama is going to bring about all of these so called changes. He hasn't spelled out specifically how he is going to do this, so why should I believe him? Dreams are one thing, but results take hard work, drive and determination and I just don't see that from Obama. His missing so many votes is a red flag for me. Not showing up to vote or voting "present" does not reflect a quality to lead in my opinion.
This country has too many problems that need fixing right now, and we are also a country at war. We need someone who has the experience to get the job done on day 1, not someone who will be learning on the job.

First thoughts: Obama's momentum

eSPO — Tue, 01 Jan 2008 18:57:56 GMT

Here is my thoughts on election 2008

Barack Obama will win Iowa by a wider margin then the polls are showing. His message is just too common sensical and he is a great uniter. He plays well with others and will let others make their points even though he disagrees with them. His real life experience combined with his political,academic, and
constitutional law expertise give him mass appeal.
He will not attract the hard left or the soft right of the Democratic party, but he will attract the votes of the mainstream of men,women,straight,gay,Christian,Non- Christian,Demmocrat and Independent voters. He will also be very successful with left leaning republicans who are unhappy about their choices and the representation the current, mutiny plagued ,republican party. He will be an overwhelming second choice among supporters of many candidates. This will lead to a convincing win.

Hillary Clinton. Well, Hillary is not Bil. Bill Clinton was the man for the time. He did a great job and earned our country great respect around the world. Our deficit was at a historical low and he provided solid leadership. Hillary is no Bill and this is not that time. Hillary is a very good American. Caring and thoughtful, intelligent and shrewd. She is also very scripted and rehearsed and her sincerity seems
to be suspect in certain areas. With 50% of American voters saying they will never vote for her she faces some tough challenges ahead.She will loose Iowa and New Hampshire, and will place her hopes in states with more electoral votes.

John Edwards I like his anger and his common folk roots, his passion and conviction. He has a good organization but I dont think he is as well rounded as Barack Obama. He will do very well and may possible beat Hillary in Iowa and New Hampshire. After this he may need to think his strategy to have a real chance.

Richardson, Biden, Dodd A group of very great experienced men and great Americans. This group of fine and dedicated public servants should be a very nice pool of candidates for the office of VP and high level assignments. They are more experienced than any, but they have no real shot to get the nomination.

Barack wins after the black vote, the female vote and
all those who wanted him to win but doubted if America was ready for a half black, big eared, audacious, intelligent young man to take the reins realize now is the time.

On the republican side.

Mike Huckabee will take Iowa when everybody realizes that Romney is a politician of that will say anything it takes to get elected. Huckabee is a mainstream Christian but has a great measure of compassion and is willing to work with others without consideration to party lines.

Mitt Romney , the flip flopper who changes his views to suit popularity and votes. A great smile and presidential look. He has outspent Huckabee 20 to 1 and much of it is from his own personal fortune. In these last days he has gone negative on Huckabee and McCain and it will bite him. He is lagging miserably in National Polls and questions over his religious affiliation will bother evangelicals around the country. The Mormons are rapidly growing thier financial empire and they have hordes of missionaries
out there "converting" Christians to Mormonism, a polytheistic religion with many non Christian beliefs.
Something that wont sit will with a large slice of the American public.

John McCain, a great American who has shown courage and patriotism. A real man among boys in the Republican party. John McCain is another man who has jeopardized his standing among the republican party
by looking for realistic solutions to real problems.
He will make a fine , high level policy maker.

Ron Paul, A nice man with great conviction. One of those Mike Gravel, Dennis Kucinich types that reminds the other candidates that there are real important issues there but don`t have a shot at the nomination.

Barack VS Mike

To be honest I will be very happy with either of them even though I prefer Obama. These two fine men have what it takes to lead our country. They are articulate , humane, and caring regardless of political affiliation and have made no promises to anybody but themselves, their families and God.

First thoughts: Obama's momentum

Tom-Iowa — Tue, 01 Jan 2008 19:00:05 GMT

So the press that is giving Obama the free ride wasn't happy with the polls when he wasn't leading; so at the last minute they are pushing this questionable one. See how all the money his campaign is paying and pouring in Iowa is paying off, perhaps! Obama has spent more money in Iowa that any other candidate in elections history!!!!!

An Obama win will show that MONEY can buy media and manipulate democracy by bringing untested, inexperienced candidates WITHOUT proven business or political leadership to the front line, and that is a risk!. Obama is a "nice" but risky proposition to our country.

A Clinton victory will reinforce that the establishment machine power still alive and combined with money can still overshadow the voice of the people

An Edwards win in Iowa will make the Democrats race a real contest and that will be good for the party. He probably doesn’t have the same amount of money than Hillary or Obama; but he has name recognition for real and people can easily be motivated to support his candidacy. he has the best progressive ideas, real agenda and is working hard for the nomination. Edwards wants to change and re energize the Democratic party from the base up, the middle class across party lines; he is fighting for a real chance…no just slogans, his message is clear and sound. When the big press give him enough coverage his message will reach across party lines to independents and some republicans fed up with Washington gridlock and the powers of big corporations and BIG MONEY.

Go Edwards! show that no one can buy the nomination, not even with the Washington oiled machine, lobbyists, big powers or big TV celebrities or big Hollywood and the controlled media. NOT even 200$ million dollars plus free press and oiled Washington or Chicago machines will buy the Presidency!

First thoughts: Obama's momentum

Richard, Baltimore — Tue, 01 Jan 2008 19:02:37 GMT

The fact that no one will walk away with a significant lead in either party, means that Iowa is not going give anyone significant momentum.

I think both sides may be facing a brokered convention.

I believe that the Dems (I am one) will realize that Hillary evokes to much of a visceral hatred in some quarters. This will make it difficult for her to get elected. If elected it will make it difficult for her to govern. But, I don't think this gives the nomination to Obama or Edwards. I think people will start taking a second look at Biden and Richardson.

On the GOP side, I believe that this will be a battle between the evangelicals and the secularists. I think Huck is and will continue to lose momentum as the GOP realize that he is not really ready for prime time. I think the GOP convention battle will be much bloodier than the Dem convetion and will damage whoever is eventually nominated. The only factor which could unite and energize the GOP is if Hillary is the Dem nominee.

Whatever happens this is year is going to be one of the most interesting political years in a long time.

First thoughts: Obama's momentum

Angelo, Pittsburgh,PA — Tue, 01 Jan 2008 19:09:42 GMT

"By the way, the poll also indicates that the possibility of Paul topping two major candidates -- Rudy and Thompson -- is very real. And if that happens, what does it mean?"

SSHHH!
Quiet. That's our strategy.

The establishment political/media machine looks left and the Ron Paul Express Locomotive comes barrelling down the track from the right. Ka Pow!

Ron Paul didn't get where he is today because of the MSM. He got there by the efforts of a massive army of grassroots supporters who are passionate about his message. This race for the nomination will be won at the RNC.

First thoughts: Obama's momentum

Francis Crosby, Columbus GA — Tue, 01 Jan 2008 19:12:33 GMT

OMG!!

MSNBC, Chris Matthews, Tucker, and Obama, have taken the lead yet (again.) Yep, the real winner(s) has emerged, just in time to motivate those, many of them "youngsters," to get out there and vote. Yup, turn the TV off, throw down those pizzas and beers, and vote for the MSNBC News, designated, Political Gladiator Obama, just like you outta. Poor Chris, he gets so misty eyed when he talks about Obama, because, "it reminds him of his youth." That's so sweet... I can't help but wonder if this "tear in the beer," isn't politics as usual. What's MSNBC stake in Obama? Why all the biased news in Obama's favor? What are they looking to gain?

When "prime time" news organizations, start wearing their political goals on their sleeves... their credibility among thinking people gets relegated to the level of Fox News. But even Fox News has started to back off a little, and have started to down play their primary function, as a "mouth piece," for the White House. I guess they too are finally starting to "sniff" the political winds. So is it MSNBC's goal to become the new (Fox) of prime time?

Corporate News, Edwards song is becoming sweeter to me, I really do question if he means it, or could actually take away some of their "strangle hold" power. Now that would really be a refreshing "change." Hillary wins in Iowa, Edward's takes second place, Obama is third. Obama's talk of change is helping, the "political process" but for the life of me, I don't know what it is, he is talking about changing, except from being a Senator to becoming President. Maybe that's the change Obama is speaking of, I am tuned in, and I read and listen, but I still don't know what it is he trying to change? His agenda is not resonating well... He does not appear strong or really seem to have conviction. Hillary and Edwards are much more passionate about their goals, and much clearer about what their goals are... A message of change means little to me, if I don't know what the change is about. Maybe it resonates well with the younger, college crowd, the idea of change for changes sake. But for those of us who really are going to vote, we want some substance, because it takes time, effort, and energy, to stay informed and then get out there and pull those "levers."

Francis Crosby, Columbus GA.

First thoughts: Obama's momentum

POLpursun — Tue, 01 Jan 2008 19:20:03 GMT

Ex-potus Clinton, on the Charlie Rose show, proffered that a win for Sen. Clinton in Iowa would be, let's call it, a win of the underdog ---- really marvelous because truly unexpected. A miracle, of sorts?

Now, let's face it, which outcome in Iowa would come closest to miraculous? In fact, that the current possibility is what it is now, B4 the caucuses, would NOT have been conventional wisdom even months ago. Indeed, as comments herein and elsewhere in First Read specifically, and on the web generally, indicate there is a significant body of opinion that those positively disposed to making history must be "loony". They are [pipe] dreaming. It WON'T happen. What, Iowa acting to propel a poad (person of African descent) on a course which has the possibility of leading to potus?

Well as they say, the truth is stranger than fiction. So go ahead, Iowa shock the world. What do you know! Shock (and maybe even some awe) could not be bad thing after all.

Those of you trying to pull it off: Poll or no poll, correct or incorrect, no chickens are to be counted until they are hatched AND deemed survivable. And for all those who think he can't win AND are positively disposed to him: So if the glass is half full, fill it up, don't empty it. Now, IF it IS the case that the DMR poll can facilitate this decision, then fine. But ........
Conclusion: Nose to the 48 hour grindstone Obama campaign. They say turnout is easier said than done, particularly among young people. Well, there is a first time for everything. This is a good time to be first time.

Go ahead Iowa, light up the rocket. Create the shock wave! Imagine the wave propagating outwards, globally. Embrace the improbable. Real meaningful change is always improbable. That's why change agents must have two capacities: the capacity to inspire and the capacity to move on regardless of outcome.

First thoughts: Obama's momentum

Randy A, Ft. Mohave, AZ — Tue, 01 Jan 2008 19:23:44 GMT

I have been involved in politics for over 50 years. I consider myself an independent leaning more towards the left then the right. I have voted for more demorcatic presidentual canidates then republican. I have written the hrc campaign and the dnc and said please to not let hrc get the nomination; she will lose. Now I like Bill he is the most charism person out there, but he took the democratic party and alined it more to big business and republicans to the point that I feel he and she represent the same people as the Bushes. I will never vote for her.
At first I found Ron Paul refreshing as time has gone on I find him to as someone else put it here a bit of a loon. In 2000 I would have voted for mccain, I like both Biden and Dodd and will voted for any of the three.However my first choice is Obama because I too believe he can be as inspiring as JFK. I must say my concern for him is if elected is he might fall to the same fate as JFK.

First thoughts: Obama's momentum

Dawn — Tue, 01 Jan 2008 19:28:33 GMT

Clinton, TWICE, says during separate interviews that Mushareff is a candidate in next week's election. The only problem is that he is NOT. He won-relection in October and will NOT be on the ballot. Why isn't the media making as big a deal of this as when Huckabee made a similar rookie mistake by saying that Pakistan was still under marshall order?

http://www.politico.com/blogs/bensmith/0108/Clinton_errs_on_Pakistan_.html#comments

First thoughts: Obama's momentum

Obama all the way — Tue, 01 Jan 2008 19:29:41 GMT

This is ridiculous. Obama is the only Democrat that can win the general election. He doesn't pander and can get the all important independent and republican vote. John Edwards is only seen as stronger because he is white. He talks about taking on corporate interests but he has no plan to do that, it doesn't seem like a reasonable goal, nor is it even America's biggest problem. He's using the fact that this country spends more time watching more American Idol than reading a newspaper or even seriously discussing politic to his advantage. This guy is fake.

Obama is not perfect. No politician is perfect. He voted present 100 times out of the THOUSANDS of votes he did cast. He has clearly stated how he is going to change America in every major policy speech he has given. It takes all of three seconds to go on youtube find clips of all of his lengthy policy speeches. I personally have seen him cover every topic in depth and without pandering to his base. What democratic candidate would sit down in every interview and tell people that we wouldn't be out of Iraq for another two and a half years. What candidate has even thought about helping the 4 million refugees of this war. What candidate has consistently challenged conventional thinking and been right! Joe Biden? Good candidate but he has too much of a record to compete in the general election. Obama is the clear choice.

Quadcity times website also featured a sit down discussion recently with Obama where he laid out his plan for Iraq (by far the most realistic plan), No offense to MSNBC but they like everyone else only show the tv friendly sound bites. Let's stop the spin and vote for the guy who can inspire the nation and the world.

First thoughts: Obama's momentum

Todd, Phoenix, Arizona — Tue, 01 Jan 2008 19:29:57 GMT

Ron Paul has the momentum like no one else. He has come from nowhere, using only the support of the people, not the media.

Go Ron Paul!

Oh really ... go through all the comments listed in First Read and see how many people are supporting Ron Paul. It appears that there are very few overall. He is also polling in the single digits. I seriously doubt Ron Paul's ideas about cutting government to the bone -- doing away with most if not all the government programs and agencies that help and protect people and the environment -- are going to resonate with most Americans. I could be wrong, but my feeling is Ron Paul doesn't have a chance.

First thoughts: Obama's momentum

Nando, Florida — Tue, 01 Jan 2008 19:37:45 GMT

Well I see Hillary has Cancelled some of her events today in IOWA, She told Iowa what she thinks about them. I can't wait till Thursday night when CNN , and the pundits try to explain why OBAMA blew HILLARY, AND EDWARDS out the water, Hillary will blame it on the Bush admin, Edwards we hope just take his beating like a man!!!!but you know he won't he has baby mommas issues to deal with.!!!!!!

First thoughts: Obama's momentum

Julie, Iowa — Tue, 01 Jan 2008 19:41:23 GMT

Why would you be surprised at the large amounts of Iowans that go to see the "second tier" candidates? Could it be your own realization that there are actually people out here who see beyond the glitz, glam and hype and are actually making their own minds up without the influence of the media? Or could it even be fathomable that there are many who have looked at the "top three" and find them lacking in the qualities it takes to LEAD our nation in the right direction? Iowans have been going to these events all along, it is you the media that hasn't been. And that has been very striking to me.

First thoughts: Obama's momentum

Can't Stand Matthews — Tue, 01 Jan 2008 19:50:13 GMT

I agree with Francis Crosby.

The unwell, slobbering, spewing, drooling Chris Matthews is not a journalist. He really does not even support Obama. Matthews just hates with a jealous rage the Clintons. He is so, so, so jealous of Bill CLinton and the power he has had as president that he is rabid.

The sick Matthews is a "closet" Rep. And I agree that Chuck Todd is a Matthews wannabe...heck who wouldn't want to be a multi millionaire like Matthews.

But the really sick thing is that a nutcase like Matthews can help to pick our president. He certainly did with George Bush by vilifying Al Gore...saying he would lick the bathroom floor to be president, calling him a bathtub ring, making fun of his clothes and questioning his manhood.

What is wrong with any Democrat who did not protest that kind of treatment of any pres. candidate???
Just wait until the GE...Little Chrissie will go after Obama, too.

The best thing those of us who see the danger of a nut like Mathews is to NEVER watch his program ever again.

Matthews needs help, meds or at the least an intervention and an immediate removal from any media program.

First thoughts: Obama's momentum

Aware Hilo, Hawaii — Tue, 01 Jan 2008 20:03:47 GMT

Don't celebrate yet Chuck. Barack Obama(BO)will not be "President" this time around. I seldom watch MSNBC anymore(except for Keith Oberman)because you ego driven, opinionated guys keep pushing the boring/baby BO. Will you approve this one? :)

First thoughts: Obama's momentum

Tom-Iowa — Tue, 01 Jan 2008 20:12:04 GMT

First thoughts: Obama's momentum

jg mueller, malibu,ca — Tue, 01 Jan 2008 20:15:21 GMT

this is why i really dislike the press. your headline is obama increases lead in polls. however, you do not mention the cnn poll that shows hillary leading or the insider poll that also shows hillary leading. both were taken the same time as the des moines register. nothing like giving a false impression. when you look AT ALL THE POLLS, it shows a dead heat.

so far, all i see is everyone is afraid to criticize obama. he is the least qualified of the top 3. he avoids voting on key issues. he did not even bother to vote on the iran bill that he critized clinton for. he was too busy campaigning. when will everyone realize that this guy is not ready for prime time. i have had enough with one amateur in the white house. we do not need another.

finally, comparing obama to jfk is fanatasy land. jfk was a war hero, his father was ambassador to england, he was in congress for 14 YEARS.

the press wants a race.

one questions? why so much about iowa. they have 45 votes at a convention that requires over 2000 votes to be nominated. please help me on this one.

First thoughts: Obama's momentum

Joan Neadly, Chicago — Tue, 01 Jan 2008 20:23:13 GMT

The Big Mo for the Big O!!

First thoughts: Obama's momentum

Freddie Mugul, Far Rockaway, NY — Tue, 01 Jan 2008 20:54:08 GMT

Okay Obama political novices, the poll came out in your favor. You have cited it's previous predictions....big deal!!Kerry is not in the White house.....I wonder why!! Obama can win Iowa, NH and any other states you want in his basket......BUT HE WILL NOT WIN THE GENERAL ELECTIONS IN AMERICA, period. If you were born in this country and think that Obama has a chance right now, I have to call you a political novice....good news is; at the end of 2008 you gonna know better....what and where America is in 2008. By the way, I'm dark than Obama when it comes to color....don't even be fooled, I just prefer reality to fantansy! Look where RICE is ...the fuckin country is still hunging nooses...oh..the majority and the last time I checked the Majority of the EC was red...Obama is smart, articulate, politically culculative (voting absent) but the time is not now....not here...I'm sure he would have landslide win in Kenya... Hey..this is just an opinion based on accurate observation....but you don't have to lose it just becuase you will not win it.

By the way...I have lost respect for Mathews and Todd...I kind od sensed the baises....but this blog has made it crystal clear...what a waste of talent!

First thoughts: Obama's momentum

Stay Strong Voters — Tue, 01 Jan 2008 21:26:22 GMT

Keep at look out for David Shuster, I watched him this morning giving his assessment of the Iowa Polls that has Obama leading; he basically dismissed the polls as not being authentic but excepted the same polls the had John McCain moving up. He shows why you can't completely trust the media... Maybe if David Shuster attended someone else's campaign besides John Edwards' then he probably wouldn't come off BIAS..

His distain of Senator Obama is apparent

Obama supporters stay strong the are gunning for this man.....

First thoughts: Obama's momentum

Simon, IA — Tue, 01 Jan 2008 21:31:13 GMT

Hilary Clinton will drive this country into the ground. Her healthcare "plan" is a path to destruction of all innovation and progress, and her social entitlement support will lead to the US's continued loss of competetive edge. Dems, pick Obama or whomever. Just get this nut out of the picture.
John Galt, Colorado (Sent Tuesday, January 01, 2008 1:49 PM)

John, so scared of Hillary as a Republican? If Hillary's healthcare plan is a path to destruction then which Democrat's healthcare plan is not? All Democrats have almost similar plans with slight differences. But you are only scared of Hillary, why?

You know she will whip you across and make sure common people will get some money which you are hiding in your pockets thru some Federal tax law loopholes?

First thoughts: Obama's momentum

Freddie Mugul, Far Rockaway, NY — Tue, 01 Jan 2008 21:53:45 GMT

Is cnn fair and balanced?

Watch this video and decide for yourself!

http://www.cnn.com/2007/POLITICS/12/31/iowa.poll/index.html#cnnSTCVideo

I wish Todd and Mathews would report this way.

First thoughts: Obama's momentum

Rankin Johnson, Houston, TX — Tue, 01 Jan 2008 21:55:50 GMT

When I was a young man, the Republican Party was split twixt the Rockefeller/Romney branch (conservative fiscally and progressive socially) and the Goldwater group (conservative fiscally but socially thought 'separate but equal' was just fine). The Democrats were a weird mixture of Southern John Birchers, union members, & ivory tower Liberals. They wanted to tax, spend, and Federalize everything (the Federal Government will solve all your problems). Then came the Vietnam War, and our strange national fixation with fighting Evil in discretionary wars around the Globe trumped public sentiment with all but a very few establishment politicians. Back then, it was astounding to me that the "Mushroom Treatment" could work on the whole country for years. But here it has worked again (of course, this is one of our 'no sacrifice, see it on TV' wars). Only now nobody believes in limiting the size of the Federal Government or in limiting the Federal Budget (save Ron Paul).

I had been in favor of Obama until:
a) he came out promoting his Do-Good war (Save Darfur- A noble cause, and I have no objection to volunteers heading over there, but please don't appropriate our Army, our children, or our treasury for something which is not a critical National Interest item. We are not an Empire; unlike Rome we can't tax Egypt, Gaul, or Britain.); and
b) the thought of the same party controlling both Congress & the Executive branch really sank in (HRC's Xmas card, Obama's $4,000 tax credit4college/child, health care credits ....).

Ron Paul may have some very unusual views, but perhaps they may seem even more unusual because pandering has become so popular, and so widely accepted. Perhaps, it just that he's the only grown-up running.

First thoughts: Obama's momentum

Donna, Concord, NH — Tue, 01 Jan 2008 23:12:19 GMT

I watch MSNBC all the time. Believe me, Chuck Todd is not an Obama fan. He is definitely in the "anyone but Obama" group. He is not quite as transparently biased as is David Shuster, but close. I wish these men would just report the facts. Chuck Todd is the Political Director of MSNBC. David Shuster is a reporter. They are not columnists or pundits, per se. They should be more straight forward and honest in their reporting if they want to retain the respect of viewers like me. Don't play favorites - just give us the information and let us come to our own conclusions.

First thoughts: Obama's momentum

Jim Bettendorf Iowa — Tue, 01 Jan 2008 23:26:15 GMT

I wish the Clintons would just go away. Hillary is nepotism acting like feminist.

First thoughts: Obama's momentum

PulSamsara — Tue, 01 Jan 2008 23:43:54 GMT

Kucinich endorses Obama for 2nd Choice to himself in Iowa !
Good for you Kucinich ! (& Biden too if so !)
Good for Iowa !
Great for America !

Barack Obama for President .

It’s time to Rise and Shine again.

First thoughts: Obama's momentum

Wayne, SIlver Spring, MD — Wed, 02 Jan 2008 00:22:58 GMT

Excellent!

Obama all the way

First thoughts: Obama's momentum

KWH, CA — Wed, 02 Jan 2008 02:31:33 GMT

The only rise and shine, Obama is going to get is the one on his eye should he win the democratic nomination from the Republican party. First, they will hit him with 70's show theme anti-marijuana ads set in a basement with three stoners, a couch, and a bong. The first stoner will say “Hey Dude, Obama is one of us.” The second stoner will say, “Yeah man, he inhaled not like Clinton!” The third stoner (a well endowed college age girl with an “Obama Girl” T-Shirt will proclaim, “Bong Hits for Obama!!!” Pick the tag line for the Republican candidate. For Guiliani it will be: “Say no to drugs and Obama. Vote for Rudy Guiliani, in the first year of his administration at NYC, arrests of marijuana increased from 750 the year before to over 59,000.” For Huckabee: “Say no to drugs and Obama. Vote for Mike Huckabee, a good Christian who is opposed to drugs.” For Romney: “Say no to drugs and Obama. Vote for Mitt Romney who wants America to turn away from drugs to a good family environment.” However, consider the 527s, whose tag line: “(insert name of state) Law Enforcement says no to drugs and Obama, vote for (name of Republican) candidate.

First thoughts: Obama's momentum

Dillon — Wed, 02 Jan 2008 03:17:52 GMT

Listen. For those out there who continue to dispute the DMR poll... Why don't you get the words right from the horses mouth. This is what Ann Selzer, the person who conducted this poll had to say.
http://www.pbs.org/newshour/bb/politics/july-dec07/precaucus_1-1.html

First thoughts: Obama's momentum

HP Boston — Wed, 02 Jan 2008 04:17:10 GMT

People you all must take a good hard look at the Obama thing, drugs and all will never ever, ever fly in the GE. You are picking a loser. Best to pick your noses instead. He is never, ever, going to be president, not even VP, ain't gonna happen, ever.

First thoughts: Obama's momentum

Craig — Wed, 02 Jan 2008 05:41:03 GMT

Come on Obama Supporters!! Get out on Jan 3rd and bring your neighours!! Take Back America!!

First thoughts: Obama's momentum

Kimberly Peacock, NY NY — Sat, 05 Jan 2008 19:39:20 GMT

The Obama relationship with http://www.tucc.org/about.htm
should be national news. No fluff piece but investigative journalism. The Obama rhetoric versus his heavy involvement in a black panther like black organization is troubling at best. I just learned of this and although it was discussed a year ago on TV the rest of the country needs to know of this. You know the republicans will bring this to the front.