McCain, Huck in dead heat in SC

Jamie, Salt Lake, Utah — Thu, 17 Jan 2008 21:03:49 GMT

Thompson in 4th place after concentrating on SC! For shame, Thompson. You're not much of a Republican Actor are you? I'm reconsidering my support!

McCain, Huck in dead heat in SC

Junior, Gainesville, FL — Thu, 17 Jan 2008 21:16:35 GMT

looking at the internal of the poll, it seems Huckabee stands a better chance than Mcain. More chaos in the GOP field but Fred will have to drop out after Sc.

In the democratic side, it's looking good for Obama. Yet, it's too early to know what's going to happen with Edwards playing the king-maker. if John sticks through the SC primary, Obama stands a good chance.

McCain, Huck in dead heat in SC

Mike, Hermosa Beach, CA — Thu, 17 Jan 2008 21:20:10 GMT

Looks like the rankings will need to reflect the nosedive of Giuliani...

http://truthalert.net/Republican%20Presidential%20Candidate%20Rankings.htm

McCain, Huck in dead heat in SC

CitizenJ — Thu, 17 Jan 2008 21:20:59 GMT

Huckabee just told a crowd in South Carolina that if the government tells them they can't display the Confederate flag on public grounds, that he would shove the poll where the sun don't shine.

On the other hand, he wants to amend the Constitution to adhere to the Bible. He also wants to tell people they can't get married because they are gay.

Uh, Mike, what about those who aren't Christians? Are you shoving the flag poll up their hiney too?

Here's my suggestion: If you seriously think you have a chance to win in November after statements like these, you might need a couple whacks over the head with that poll until you are unconcious so we don't have to listen to this garbage anymore.

McCain, Huck in dead heat in SC

Jon, Canton, OH — Thu, 17 Jan 2008 21:22:45 GMT

Huckabee now has momentum going into Saturday's primary. With a field this wide open, Republican voters can feel free to vote with their heart and pick the person they feel best about. Even if Huckabee doesn't eventually secure the nomination and the convention ends up brokered, the more delegates he'll bring to the table, the better for evangelicals and southerners. I think people are starting to think along this line instead of trying to just pick the winner and vote for the person who won the last state.

McCain, Huck in dead heat in SC

mdude, paloalto, ca — Thu, 17 Jan 2008 21:23:15 GMT

Obama has a nine point lead ... deja vu all over again!

McCain, Huck in dead heat in SC

Eric,NC — Thu, 17 Jan 2008 21:32:48 GMT

Good for Obama, but can these polls be trusted?? We shall soon see...how come not too many polls for Nevada?

McCain, Huck in dead heat in SC

Rob in Nevada — Thu, 17 Jan 2008 21:34:09 GMT

OK, you fanatic Obama supporters... before you annoint him as the next Messiah, check out Newsweek's latest article pointing out how HE uses dirty campaign tactics in his TV ads in Nevada. Oh, my God!!! Obama acting like a Chicago politician????? I am so SHOCKED!!!!! Here's the headline and the link to the article in Newsweek, for you Obama supporters who truly care about the truth as much as you say you do:

Obama's Creative Clippings

The ad may be new, but we've seen this tactic, from this candidate, before.

http://www.newsweek.com/id/94900/page/1

McCain, Huck in dead heat in SC

Tim, Mobile — Thu, 17 Jan 2008 21:42:08 GMT

Tell the undecides to go Obama. Hillary has no chance in a general election.

McCain, Huck in dead heat in SC

Dan Weinberg, St. Louis, MO — Thu, 17 Jan 2008 21:48:10 GMT

I don't want to make the judgment that Southern Democrats will still choose their candidate based on race, but with 67% of whites supporting Clinton and Edwards against Obama's 20%, there is at least some evidence that race may still matter. Wake up, S.C. It's 2008!

McCain, Huck in dead heat in SC

DA TX — Thu, 17 Jan 2008 21:49:31 GMT

MCCAIN DID NOT SUPPORT THE BUSH TAX CUT, HAS A TROPHY WIFE,NOT CLEAR ON PRO LIFE, WOULD NOT SUPPORTING ILLEGALS, HIS VIETNAM SERVICE IS QUESTIONED, WHAT DOES HE OFFER, AND FRED THOMPSON, ARE PEOPLE CRAZY, HE NEVER PASSED ANYTHING BUT GAS, AND BRAGS ABOUT HIS TROPHY WIFE WHO WAS NO MORE THAN A GROUPIE OR GOLD DIGGER EVEN RPN PAUL LOOKS BETTER THAN THESE TWO, AND RUDY RUNNING FOR GOVERNOR OF FLA. FOR ME HUCKABEE OR ROMMNEY

McCain, Huck in dead heat in SC

Sally Charleston, SC — Thu, 17 Jan 2008 21:50:13 GMT

GO, OBAMA, GO! We believe in you!

McCain, Huck in dead heat in SC

DA TX — Thu, 17 Jan 2008 21:50:37 GMT

MCCAIN DID NOT SUPPORT THE BUSH TAX CUT, HAS A TROPHY WIFE,NOT CLEAR ON PRO LIFE, WOULD NOT SUPPORT deporting ILLEGALS, HIS VIETNAM SERVICE IS QUESTIONED, WHAT DOES HE OFFER, AND FRED THOMPSON, ARE PEOPLE CRAZY, HE NEVER PASSED ANYTHING BUT GAS, AND BRAGS ABOUT HIS TROPHY WIFE WHO WAS NO MORE THAN A GROUPIE OR GOLD DIGGER EVEN RoN PAUL LOOKS BETTER THAN THESE TWO, AND RUDY RUNNING FOR GOVERNOR OF FLA. FOR ME HUCKABEE OR ROMMNEY

McCain, Huck in dead heat in SC

Carrie, Eastern Iowa — Thu, 17 Jan 2008 21:54:31 GMT

I wonder if First Read will report on the Newsweek piece on Obama's misleading ads in which he runs flattering quotes across the screen, citing various publications. The problem? The publications did not say what he says and, worse than that, some of the articles he cites actually are opposed to plans that he suggests those articles support. It's very enlightening.

http://www.newsweek.com/id/94900

Oh and P.S. Here we go with the polls again. It took the MSM media all of a few days to forget the lesson of the NH primary.

McCain, Huck in dead heat in SC

jj — Thu, 17 Jan 2008 21:57:14 GMT

IT'S OVER FOR FRED THOMPSON.

Jeri has potential-as FOX SUPPORTS.

McCain, Huck in dead heat in SC

jj — Thu, 17 Jan 2008 21:59:37 GMT

GO MIT ROMNEY!!!

THE POPE AND THE JEWS can agree on you-at least.

McCain, Huck in dead heat in SC

Earls, San Francisco, CA — Thu, 17 Jan 2008 22:00:21 GMT

It is a travesty that Hillary Clinton has dishonestly convinced voters that she has more experience than Obama. Technically, this is false: Obama has served more years in elected office than Hillary, specifically, 8 years in the Illinois Senate (which follows nearly identical rules and procedures as the U.S. Senate), and 3 years in the U.S. Senate for a total of 11 years. Moreover, Obama spent many years as a grassroots organizer on the poverty ravaged streets of south Chicago working for school reform and environmental protection among other key issues, was a civil rights lawyer, and a law professor at the University of Chicago which is one of the top law schools in the world. Clinton, on the other hand has served only one term plus a year in her second term-a total of 7 years in elected office. Being first lady does not count the same as being elected or appointed. There is no accountability-- no one knows what she did or didn't do, as she wasn't official given she was not elected or appointed. There is no record. Thus far, she has taken the liberty of cherry picking the good things she did, but this is problematic as we don't know the mistakes she made--again, because she wasn't elected. It is undemocratic for her to claim she is fit to be president for her role in a non-elected, non appointed position. Now, she has switched to saying she has "35 years of experience". The commencement address at Wellsley apparently is part of this "experience" which makes ready to be president. If she now wants to count non-political experience, then Obama can best her in this area as well. Please see the breakdown below. At some point, the media must sort this distortion out, by simply laying out the resumes of the candidates:

Obama served 8 years in State government (Illinois state Senator), and been in the U.S. Senate for 3 years.

Hillary Clinton has served 7 years in the U.S Senate, and has no prior experience in elected office.

Bill Clinton served in State Government for 10 years (Arkansas Governor), and served ZERO years in national government.
John Edwards served 6 years in the U.S Senate, and has no other experience in elected office.

Synopsis

Numerically, Bill Clinton had less experience in government than Obama. More importantly, Bill Clinton had ZERO foreign policy experience. John Edwards has less experience in elected office than any candidate running for president. The key point is that Obama's 8 years in the Illinois Senate have been completely overlooked, and warrant equal comparison to Bill Clinton’s only experience before he became president, which was also in state government for a very small/insignificant state with no major cities (Arkansas).
Hillary Clinton has consistently referred to her experience as first lady. Two problems: 1.) she was not an elected official accountable to voters, and for those of us that believe in democratically elected leaders, her claims of being "deeply involved and hands on" during Bill Clinton's administration should be viewed as problematic. The inherent problems related to not being an elected official but claiming to be deeply involved in Bill Clinton's administration is illustrated through the lack of paper trail detailing exactly what she did and in what areas/issues during his 8 years in office.2.) The evidence which has been pieced together through testimony of former Clinton officials shows that Hillary has greatly exaggerated her involvement in policymaking. The following article details the nature of Clinton’s experience as first lady: http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/22395503/ Overall, it is unprecedented for a candidate to claim they have experience at the highest level of government despite not being an elected or appointed official (aside from her healthcare failure in which she was appointed to a commission). Being a First lady, no matter how politically active, is not the same as being Secretary of State or National Security Advisor. For Clinton to portray her time as first lady as equivalent to being an official in the white house is not just a stretch, it’s disingenuous and undemocratic. Laura Bush for Pres?
Obama is the most well rounded of all candidates. Aside from his 11 years serving in legislatures, for many years he was a community organizer in Harlem and South Chicago (actually working with real people at a grassroots level, something Hillary has never done), a civil rights lawyer, and a law professor at the University of Chicago law school. Compare Obama’s current experience (age 46) to Bill Clinton’s when he first ran in 1992 (age 42), in which he was accused of not having enough experience, given that he had only served as governor of a tiny state and had no foreign policy experience. Clinton argued that a candidate can “have the right kind of experience or the wrong kind of experience. Obama has also used Clinton’s quote from 1992: “The people of America recognize that there are other measures of leadership and there are other measures of experience than simply having been in Washington. And so my experience is rooted in the real lives of real people, and I will bring real results if Americans have courage to change.”
Experience doesn’t equal good judgment—Cheney and Rumsfeld each had 35 years of “experience” in Washington, and this hasn’t led to good judgment.
Among all the major candidates, who got the single most important foreign policy decision of the last 30 years right? Obama.

McCain, Huck in dead heat in SC

Brian Boston Mass. — Thu, 17 Jan 2008 22:02:07 GMT

Anybody, except Huckleberry, in the Oval office but Bush. Now that our plastic economy has to pay the bill
we are going into a major recession. This airhead "W"
will leave a big stinky mess when he leaves just like every job he has done in his entire life. Never another Bush! Our worst president ever!

McCain, Huck in dead heat in SC

PollM, Dallas TX — Thu, 17 Jan 2008 22:05:46 GMT

Republican South Carolina Primary - Prediction Time!

Who do you predict will win the Republican South Carolina Presidential Primary?

http://www.youpolls.com/details.asp?pid=1553

.

McCain, Huck in dead heat in SC

Ken Collins/Wagoner, Oklahoma — Thu, 17 Jan 2008 22:06:23 GMT

President Barack Obama !!! CHANGE !!Honesty !!Truth !!!
SEND SLICK WILLY AND VENOMOUS HILLARY BACK TO ARKANSAS !!!

McCain, Huck in dead heat in SC

Jon, Reno, Nevada — Thu, 17 Jan 2008 22:07:25 GMT

I would take misleading ads from Obama over outright lies from 'Billary' and the Clinton "Machine" any day of the week.

McCain, Huck in dead heat in SC

Lisa, Minnesota — Thu, 17 Jan 2008 22:09:01 GMT

I can't wait to caucus for Obama on super tuesday! I've never been this excited to vote in my life!!!

McCain, Huck in dead heat in SC

FRANK RUCK, GLEN ELLYN, IL — Thu, 17 Jan 2008 22:11:53 GMT

Just what we need, another poll!
Is it just me or does anyone else worry
that these polls influence voters way too much;
just as exit polling in elections influences
voter turnout, negatively on the west coast?
Boy a 9 point Obama lead is probably the kiss of
death for him. Isn't that just about what
everyone was saying his lead was up until 5:30PM
on the day of the New Hampshire primary?
Perhaps politics in this country would be better served if you in the media just kept your mouths
shut until after the fact? I know your ego's and
your livelihoods would take a big hit; but what
do you care?

McCain, Huck in dead heat in SC

Brad, Lincoln, NE — Thu, 17 Jan 2008 22:14:31 GMT

AH whats with these POLLS... Can we really trust them? Especially after N.H.?

McCain, Huck in dead heat in SC

Daniel Gia — Thu, 17 Jan 2008 22:16:35 GMT

Non-Christians should leave this country right away. There is no use for you here.

McCain, Huck in dead heat in SC

sharon Walker Folsom, CA — Thu, 17 Jan 2008 22:18:15 GMT

Dear Friends:
Hope the earth quake does not happen as Roosevelt, Washington, Hamilton, Jefferson, Reagan, Kennedy,
Lincoln are turning over in their graves. Huckabee
seperation of religion and government a fine line.
creationism and evolution are they to be taught together apply these to stem cell reseach happenings in the news.

McCain, Huck in dead heat in SC

Mark Elsasser, Montgomery, LA — Thu, 17 Jan 2008 22:20:01 GMT

Huckabee meant that the confederate flag, for most in the south, isnt meant hatefully or racially, but rather a symbol of southern heritage. Also, most republicans do not agree in gay marriage, definately most in the south. Its not necessarily amending the constitution to reflect the bible, rather amending the constitution to reflect what a majority of Americans want going on in their country. Unfortunately for you, a majority call themselves Christians and live by the Bible. Living in a democracy where majority rules and a majority say they obey scripture means this majority feels that gay marriage should not be allowed. Back to the flag point, you have Americans burning the flag all over the US in protest, you would probably say well thats their first amendment right, shouldnt it then be okay for a southerner to display the confederate flag, especially when no hate or racism is tied to it? That is a HUGE misconception today that this flag represents bad things, i am a southerner, i personally dont fly that flag, but i dont believe the government should swoop down and tell others not to fly the flag especially when nothing bad is meant by it, when they wont say anything about Ol Glory burners who do mean offense in what they do. Sounds like a double standard if you ask me.

McCain, Huck in dead heat in SC

Marcel, Las Vegas, NV — Thu, 17 Jan 2008 22:20:57 GMT

If you are an Obama supporter I wouldn't belive any poll. The only thing that matters is what you do on election day. Are you going to go out and caucuse or vote when your day comes, or will you sit on the sideline and watch the Clinton's win another state. Get up get involved and vote for Obama America. Nevada your next. What are you going to do

McCain, Huck in dead heat in SC

Caleb — Thu, 17 Jan 2008 22:26:04 GMT

I like Huckabee but his inexperience on the national level is coming through a little. I appreciate that he doesn't "play the game" like everyone else, but he's still kind of like that little 3rd grader who's just now figuring out how to verbally spar with the 6th graders.His comments are so awkward sometimes. McCain on the other hand, has the experience and has controlled far more on the national stage than a lot of people give him credit for. He's got legislative experience, a working knowledge of the military, a healthy grasp on relations, a rather unprecedented bi-partisan relationship (which means stuff might actually get done), apart from the fact he's older than Moses he's awesome. I'd really like to see a McCain/Huckabee ticket come November. Huck could use the 4-8 years experience before he's a serious candidate.

McCain, Huck in dead heat in SC

TENNESSEE, knoxville, tn — Thu, 17 Jan 2008 22:26:43 GMT

Prediction: huckabee WILL NEVER BE PRESIDENT OF THIS COUNTRY

McCain, Huck in dead heat in SC

Dave, Scottsdale Arizona — Thu, 17 Jan 2008 22:27:13 GMT

OK Rob, while we're looking at Fact check, let's review what Senator Clinton said in the debate:

Clinton: Well, Tim, I think it's well accepted that the 2005 energy bill was the Dick Cheney lobbyist energy bill. It was written by lobbyists. It was championed by Dick Cheney. It wasn't just the green light that it gave to more nuclear power. It had enormous giveaways to the oil and gas industries. ... It was the wrong policy for America. It was so heavily tilted toward the special interests that many of us, at the time, said, you know, that's not going to move us on the path we need, which is toward clean, renewable green energy.

And Fact Check's response:

This is the third time we've pointed out Clinton's distortion of this legislation. She is continuing a bogus line of attack that we debunked when Democrats deployed it widely in the 2006 congressional elections. While it's true that Republican lawmakers had once considered large tax breaks for oil and gas companies in the bill, the biggest of them had been stripped out of the bill by the time it passed.

Senator Obama's answer, however, was factually accurate:
Obama was closer to the truth when he said the 2005 bill (which he supported) was "the largest investment in clean energy ... that we had ever seen."

Obama: Well, the reason I voted for it [the 2005 energy bill] was because it was the single largest investment in clean energy – solar, wind, biodiesel – that we had ever seen. And I think it is – we talked about this earlier – if we are going to deal with our dependence on foreign oil, then we're going to have to ramp up how we're producing energy here in the United States.

No need to believe me, just go to www.factcheck.org. Careful how you grab that sword Rob, it's sharp on both sides.

http://www.factcheck.org/elections-2008/stacking_the_deck.html

McCain, Huck in dead heat in SC

D. Jabari Howard — Thu, 17 Jan 2008 22:27:42 GMT

After the NH results I believe everyone has learned that surveys such as this one mean very little, unfortunately.

McCain, Huck in dead heat in SC

Bob, NY, NY — Thu, 17 Jan 2008 22:29:03 GMT

So what about Obama's experience? First, being in the Ilinois state senate does not give one experience in things that matter to most Americans like social security, national security, and taxes. Second, the guy voted "present" over 100 times in the state senate to avoid tough votes. Third, he has missed 60% of the US Senate votes this year while he has been out campaigning.

McCain, Huck in dead heat in SC

Just the Facts Please — Thu, 17 Jan 2008 22:29:57 GMT

McCain, Huck in dead heat in SC

Tricia, Pensacola, FL — Thu, 17 Jan 2008 22:31:04 GMT

I'd be intrigued by a McCain/Huckabee ticket. I think with the combination of them garnering 50+ percent of the republican's (moderate and conservative) voters, I think they would have a shot against Hillary or Obama...

McCain, Huck in dead heat in SC

gene britton — Thu, 17 Jan 2008 22:34:22 GMT

MSNBC poll and you expect us to beleive the numbers.Is this the same Mason Dixon poll that had Obama about a mile ahead in New Hampshire. I do not doubt that he will win the S.C. election. The break down of the vote strongly favors him and that is to be expected. I also think he will do well in Nevada, but after that, wins are going to come a little less often. I live in Texas and the last poll had Hillary up by almost 20 points.

McCain, Huck in dead heat in SC

bc Indiana — Thu, 17 Jan 2008 22:35:50 GMT

After Huckabee showed his true colors with his statement that he seeks to modify the Constitution I am sincerely hoping McCain and Romney turf this wolf in sheep's clothing......

McCain, Huck in dead heat in SC

Fed up — Thu, 17 Jan 2008 22:36:38 GMT

With all of the mudslinging and the media using their power to persuade the vote, I am fed up with the current offering and was thinking, "If Americans wrote in and commented on who they would like to see as Pres. or who they would like to see Run, what kind of list would we see?" I'm talking about ANYONE whether running or not or previously running or not, involved or not involved in politics in any way. ....I'll start the list myself, I really like Joe Biden, his experience and his stance and wish he had the support to continue in the race.

McCain, Huck in dead heat in SC

Jessie, Seattle, Wash. — Thu, 17 Jan 2008 22:37:38 GMT

Hate to say this but Newsweek's reporting is about as pro-hilary as it gets. With that said, - if that's really all they have on him then best of luck.

McCain, Huck in dead heat in SC

Chad Barnes, Farmersburg IN — Thu, 17 Jan 2008 22:52:06 GMT

Going into the South Carolina Primary on Saturday Mike Huckabee has is tied with John McCain in the polls. The Huckabee camp needs everyone able to vote to get out there and cast your vote for him. His big stances which are some of the most important are on illegal immigration. We should send the illegals back to whereever it is they came from. The United States has enough problems that we dont need them draining our enconomy. Senator McCain wants to let them stay. WHY??? Also, Gov. Huckabee is a devout Christian and as a Christian I believe that he will stick to the laws and code that helped found this great nation. One other thing Gov Huckabee cherishes life, and is against abortion. If people are adult enough to make a child they should be grown up enough to handle what the outcome may be. Another thing marriage should be between a man and a woman thats how life was intended to be. Whether you belive in God or nothing, If people were designed to be Gay then you would not need a man and a woman to reproduce.
Support Mike Huckabee

McCain, Huck in dead heat in SC

daniel aiken — Thu, 17 Jan 2008 22:53:27 GMT

print out for report

McCain, Huck in dead heat in SC

Roger, VA — Thu, 17 Jan 2008 22:54:15 GMT

If experience was the most important issue, then the democrats should have put their money behind Biden or Richardson. The fact that neither of these candidates are still in the race implies that experience is NOT the most important issue.

McCain, Huck in dead heat in SC

CitizenJ — Thu, 17 Jan 2008 22:59:37 GMT

CitizenJ, One of these days you might actually provide facts. As usual you tend the stretch the truth and twist the words.

Just the Facts Please (Sent Thursday, January 17, 2008 5:29 PM)

Well, I apologize for paraphrasing. If it's the actual quote you want (which, I believe, qualifies as a fact), here it is:

"You don't like people from outside the state coming in and telling you what to do with your flag. In fact, if somebody came to Arkansas and told us what to do with our flag, we'd tell them what to do with the pole, that's what we'd do."

Good enough? Just in case it's not, he said it a SECOND time, in a DIFFERENT place. Still "just the facts":

"I know what would happen if somebody comes to my state in Arkansas and tells us what to do, it doesn't matter what it is, tell us how to run our schools, tell us how to raise our kids, tell us what to do with our flag — you want to come tell us what to do with the flag, we'd tell them what to do with the pole."

If your problem with my statement is the part about amending the Constitution, well, here is your FACT:

“I have opponents in this race who do not want to change the Constitution. But I believe it’s a lot easier to change the Constitution than it would be to change the word of the living god. And that’s what we need to do — is to amend the Constitution so it’s in God’s standards rather than try to change God’s standards so it lines up with some contemporary view of how we treat each other and how we treat the family.”

I'm sorry if you don't like it, but as you requested: just the facts.

McCain, Huck in dead heat in SC

Ron, New Rockford, ND — Thu, 17 Jan 2008 23:01:56 GMT

Are The Clinton’s Crooks? Paul Harvey would call this, “The rest of the story”

The following paragraphs are taken from an article on MSNBC site search.

Do any of you Clinton voters think the NEW YORK TIMES would lie about HILLARY?

Read the full following article for your own good and also mine. Copy the article and e-mail it to everyone on your list.

Instructions on how to find the full article is noted at the bottom.

By Don Van Natta Jr., Jo Becker and Mike McIntire
updated 1:57 a.m. CT, Thurs., Dec. 20, 2007

People don’t throw money Clinton’s way to be nice. They need something in return and the Clinton’s owe a lot to a lot of people.

A joint effort? Slick answer Hillary.
At a Democratic debate in September, 2007 when Mrs. Clinton was asked whether the Clinton Library foundation would disclose its donors, she indicated that the decision was not hers. “Well, you’ll have to ask them,” she replied, referring to the former president and his staff.

IS PAYOLA THE ANSWER TO A PRESIDENTIAL PARDON?
Mrs. Clinton played an important role in shaping both the foundation’s organization and the scope of its work, said Karen A. Tramontano, a senior adviser in the Clinton White House and the foundation’s first chief of staff.
Advisers also were acutely aware that the foundation’s operations — and any perception of a conflict — could harm Mrs. Clinton politically. “She and I would speak frequently,” Ms. Tramontano said. “She had a lot of ideas. All the papers that went to him went to her.”

Early on, donations to the Clinton library caused perception problems. The day after he left office, Mr. Clinton was embroiled in a scandal over his 11th-hour pardon of the financier Marc Rich, who fled the United States in 1983 to avoid tax evasion and other charges. A Congressional hearing later revealed that the pardon came after Mr. Rich’s former wife, Denise Rich, contributed $450,000 to Mr. Clinton’s library.
_______________________________________________________________________________

The New York Times has compiled the first comprehensive list of 97 donors who gave or pledged a total of $69 million for the Clinton presidential library in the final years of the Clinton administration. The examination found that while some $1 million contributors were longtime Clinton friends, others were seeking policy changes from the administration. Two pledged $1 million each while they or their companies were under investigation by the Justice Department.
________________________________________________________________________________
Family donors
Toward the end of the Clinton administration, Dr. Richard Machado Gonzalez and his lawyer, Miguel D. Lausell, both major Democratic donors in the 1996 presidential election, were pushing the president to increase Medicare reimbursements to hospitals in Puerto Rico, like the one owned by Dr. Machado.

Mr. Lausell pledged $1 million to the library in 1999, eight months before Mr. Clinton proposed increasing Medicare payments to Puerto Rico for the second time in his administration. Dr. Machado gave the library foundation $100,000 about six months later.
In the interim, the president appointed Mr. Lausell to the board of the Overseas Private Investment Corporation, which helps American companies with foreign projects.

Both men are supporters of Mrs. Clinton, and Mr. Lausell serves as a senior adviser on Latino affairs. Dr. Machado did not return calls seeking comment, and efforts to reach Mr. Lausell through the campaign were not successful.

_______________________________________________________________________________

A fledgling telecommunications company, NextWave Wireless, was battling the Federal Communications Commission when library fund-raisers tapped its chief executive and a major investor. NextWave had promised to pay $4.74 billion for cellphone licenses, but when it declared bankruptcy before completing its payments, the F.C.C. threatened to put the licenses up for public auction, which would have ruined NextWave.
Over three consecutive days in December 1999, with a decision imminent, the Clinton library logged a $100,000 pledge from NextWave’s chief executive, Allen Salmasi, and a $100,000 contribution plus a $1 million pledge from Bay Harbour Management, a major investor in NextWave.
The agency ultimately repossessed NextWave’s licenses, prompting a court battle that the company won. Bay Harbour’s co-owner, Douglas Teitelbaum, who declined to comment, never fulfilled his promise to contribute the additional $1 million. Mr. Salmasi did not respond to an e-mail message or to calls to a company spokesman.
Mr. Clinton also found support for his library among some people who figured in the Democratic fund-raising controversies dating to the 1996 elections that involved White House sleepovers, coffees for big donors and money funneled from the Chinese government.
Among them was Farhad Azima, an Iranian-born aviation executive whose involvement in the Iran-contra scandal — one of his companies flew military equipment to Iran in the 1980s — prompted the Democratic National Committee to return a $143,000 donation in 1997. The party later accepted the money. Mr. Azima pledged $1 million to the library.
Another $1 million pledge came from Eric and Patricia Hotung. Mr. Hotung is a Hong Kong businessman who in 1997 was granted a meeting with Mr. Clinton’s national security adviser after Mr. Hotung’s wife, Patricia, an American, offered $100,000 to the Democrats.
Nine of the original library donors received presidential appointments to organizations like the President’s Committee on the Arts and Humanities and the United States Holocaust Memorial Council. In his final days in office, Mr. Clinton appointed two of the donors, the businessmen Mark S. Weiner and Vinod Gupta, to the board of the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.

_____________________________________________________________________________

On October 6, 1999, the charitable arm of the Anheuser-Busch Companies gave $200,000, the first of five payments over five years totaling $1 million, according to records filed by the company’s foundation. Less than a month earlier, the company, the country’s leading beer maker, had scored a major victory when the Clinton administration’s Federal Trade Commission dropped a bid to regulate beer, wine and liquor advertising.

_____________________________________________________________________________________________

Bernard L. Schwartz, another major Democratic contributor who was then chief executive of Loral Space and Communications, gave $250,000 and pledged $750,000 more in 2000. At the time, investigators were trying to determine if Loral had improperly provided satellite technology to China. Under the Bush administration, Loral agreed to pay a civil fine of $14 million to settle the case. Mr. Schwartz, is now also a Hillary raiser.

_____________________________________________________________________________________________

Long enough for now?
Read the full article by doing an MSNBC SITE SEARCH for “CLINTON LIBRARY”
Then find the article>>> Clinton donors overlap (12/20/07) 3 Pages. It’s worth it

Don’t forget to copy and e-mail the article to everyone on your address list

McCain, Huck in dead heat in SC

Bruno Evans, Spokane, Washington — Thu, 17 Jan 2008 23:11:21 GMT

Nobody wants to see your GUESS polls.....I'll just wait until the election and view the REAL results...when will you people ever learn.

McCain, Huck in dead heat in SC

Wayne -- Los Angeles, CA — Thu, 17 Jan 2008 23:12:06 GMT

May we please sell the South to someone? Anyone? Half of you can't spell and the other half must live in caves, judging from your 18th-century views. Do you actually believe the stuff you write, or is it just to spark controversy? There should be an IQ test before anyone is allowed to vote.

McCain, Huck in dead heat in SC

Suzanne — Thu, 17 Jan 2008 23:12:58 GMT

In reply to Fed up; I thought I was the only one to see that Joe Biden would be the best candidate. Glad to know there's someone else who looks beyond the glitz.

McCain, Huck in dead heat in SC

LET'S TALK RESUMES — Thu, 17 Jan 2008 23:13:58 GMT

McCain, Huck in dead heat in SC

Disgusted, Thousand Oaks, CA — Thu, 17 Jan 2008 23:14:49 GMT

The real 'change' candidate, Kucinich, barely gets a hearing. America gets what it deserves - more of the same! Continuous wars, meaningless health-care (whatever crumbs the insurance industry and drug companies parcel out), and more environmental crimes!

Let's get a 3rd party to give us REAL choice!!

McCain, Huck in dead heat in SC

Marty CR Iowa — Thu, 17 Jan 2008 23:17:41 GMT

As far as the confederate flag goes, as long as it flies in its proper place with the Stars and Stripes , I could care less. Ass far as huck goes, no way would I vote for this religious Bigot, "it's
my way or none policy". I also do not like the idea of any one being able to "buy" the oval office, what would happen if during campaigns the press was free? We are supposed to be an equal opportunity nation, right? I myself will vote for the person I feel will be the best person to lead this country out of the mess we are in and secure our safety. I am older than John McCain and have voted since IKE, don't count out us seniors as dieing before our time. Use our knowledge and experience and lets get this job done right.

McCain, Huck in dead heat in SC

Suzanne, Thousand Oaks, CA — Thu, 17 Jan 2008 23:18:59 GMT

Wish there had been more support for Joe Biden. He was/is the best choice. Too bad the voters couldn't see beyond the glitz.

McCain, Huck in dead heat in SC

Buzz — Thu, 17 Jan 2008 23:19:36 GMT

Wow, hate to say race has anything to do with any of Obama's support/non-support, but do you think there may be many out there that would vote for him ONLY because of his ethnicity? Y'think, folks??

McCain, Huck in dead heat in SC

M. Staton — Thu, 17 Jan 2008 23:20:46 GMT

I don't know why I should be surprised at NEWSWEEK and their desperate need to bring clouds of suspicion over the Obama campaign. I agree with Jessie in Seattle, they should have just kept trying until they came up with something better than this. It just goes to show that the National Media is just as eager and desperate to interject and demonstrate their biases just as any other racists out there.

McCain, Huck in dead heat in SC

DAVID ANDERS , PHARR, TX. ARKANSAS — Thu, 17 Jan 2008 23:21:49 GMT

FRED IN OKLAHOMA--------WE DONT WANT THEM IN ARKANSAS, CLINTONS THAT IS-----------LET HIM STAY IN HARLEM, WITH HIS DRUGS AND BLACK WOMEN---IF THET WILL HAVE HIM. HILLAY CAN GO BACK TO CALIFORNIA AND WORK FOR THE OLD COMMUNIST LAW FIRM SHE WORKED FOR BEFORE MOVING TO ARKANSAS

McCain, Huck in dead heat in SC

Don, Verona Island, Maine — Thu, 17 Jan 2008 23:24:18 GMT

McCain,Hillary and Obama have had every oppturnity to make things right in Washington over the last few years and have not done a thing to make things better, why do people think they will do any better now. It's time for a change, that means out with the old and in with the new on both sides of the isle.
That only leves Edwards to do what "WE THE PEOPLE" want most, end the war and the economy will be fixed. If a Republican would say he will do that than he is in for sure.

McCain, Huck in dead heat in SC

Pam, SLC, Utah — Thu, 17 Jan 2008 23:24:34 GMT

Huckabee would modify the constitution based on his personal interpretation of God's desires. Correct? Please tell me that scares the heck (Utah vernacular for naughty words) out of the majority of you Republicans. Our country can't handle the pendulum to swing any farther to the right. We're about to tip over as it is.

McCain, Huck in dead heat in SC

A. Wolf USA — Thu, 17 Jan 2008 23:27:59 GMT

The Trilateral Commission has already decided that Hillary will be the next president. It doesn't matter what the polls say or what the sheep think or do. It is a done deal. Live with it.

McCain, Huck in dead heat in SC

Rodger, Kansas City — Thu, 17 Jan 2008 23:28:17 GMT

Rudy has squandered any opportunity he might have had by focusing only on Florida. McCain is a stiff and angry man who's time has passed. Thompson might make a decent president in the movies, but never in real life (oh, is he ever dull and uninspiring!). Huckabee, although a preacher by trade, is a mean-spirited man who apparently condones dirty behind-the-scenes politics. That leave Mitt Romney. He not only looks like a president, he walks and talks like a (good) president -- smart, concise, rational. Yes, a couple of Romney's views have evolved. His opponents call that flip-flopping. I call it getting smarter with age. Since when is that a problem? Romney is clearly the best of the bunch among Republicans.

McCain, Huck in dead heat in SC

B. Ross Ashley, Ontario, Canada — Thu, 17 Jan 2008 23:28:23 GMT

On the flag thing, I think all racists should be constitutionally free to identify themselves for target practice.

But then I don't think Daddy killed enough Nazis.

McCain, Huck in dead heat in SC

B. Ross Ashley, Ontario, Canada — Thu, 17 Jan 2008 23:29:13 GMT

How's McKinney doing in comparison to the two packs of chimps?

McCain, Huck in dead heat in SC

Allen McNeill,Pa. — Thu, 17 Jan 2008 23:32:00 GMT

I think the last true witness to racial cleansing in this country was the Native American.After The War Between the States, they saw the white and black man kill and pillage them under the American flag. That was part of MY history. I'm not offened by that flag. It's part of MY history. Don't make this an issue about the Confederate flag. It can't offend you if you don't let it. Move on people like WE have. Let's concentrate on education and our economy and getting our military home. That's what the politians should be debating.

McCain, Huck in dead heat in SC

bc Indiana — Thu, 17 Jan 2008 23:32:32 GMT

"Non Christians should leave this country right away. There is no use for you here."

Come and get me... just remember the Second Amendment...

McCain, Huck in dead heat in SC

Michael Gomez,Ridgefield Park,New Jersey — Thu, 17 Jan 2008 23:33:41 GMT

The problem all of you Obama supporters have is you can not give any specifics regarding Obma's work history. This matters. Not only the "heart", but the "head" counts when making an informed choice. The country is in such a shape that we need much more than "pep rallies". If Obama wins the nomination, I will be forced to vote for him over any of the Republicans. But the smart choice is Clinton. Get past this childish "personal" thing with Hillary. Go by the facts, not by reading between lines. Rove and his buddies are hoping you vote with your hearts only - because they know they can beat Obama. All of their dirty tricks have been used already against Hillary and apparently, based on some of these anti-Hillary posts, still work. Let Hillary clean up the mess Bush made, then let Obama bring the parties together. In that order. Do not set the guy up for failure, and do not fall for these tricks again. Clinton should be the nominee for the Democratic party, at this point in history.

McCain, Huck in dead heat in SC

EK Augusta, GA — Thu, 17 Jan 2008 23:33:55 GMT

Hmm... Actually If HR 676 was modified a little, it would be a good start for healthcare, (I read the bill, but they need to work on that cmte a little more.) maybe a Constitutional ammendment for health care and education, too. This is for you guys about Obama and healthcare. Just get your idiot Congressmen and Shrub to pass that! Yes, that means you Paul Broun, haven't done much.

Overall Obama is still best. I regretted not voting Gore in 2000 (parent's said it was "against my religion" WRONG!!), my registration was late for 2004, and I'm fed up!

Obama, Feb 5 I'm voting!!! Keep going!

Anyway, should I run for Congress? I'm 25 now.

McCain, Huck in dead heat in SC

Citizen — Thu, 17 Jan 2008 23:35:00 GMT

Please read all of this message.."The Ruling Families of America" Bush,CLinton,Bush,CLinton?" I really liked Hillary Clinton before her presidential run. I thought she was a morally good person and a model for American women. But after watching the antics from her campaign, and listening to her and Bill day after day try and manipulate this election, I am personally disappointed. I'm disappointed because it's as if Clinton's supporters aren't paying attention to what is happening here. I say this to all Clinton supporters, CHANGE is the only recipe for a better America. An America that we can all be proud of. The saying goes, you cannot teach an old dog new tricks. 35years of the same politics as usual is enough. America's ship is sinking around the world. WE CAN DO BETTER. Senator Clinton and nearly every other candidate in this campaign adopted "CHANGE" from Senator Obama because it is understood, that America must CHANGE directions. I am supporting Sen Obama for 1 reason and 1 reason only, He is the only one of the canditates that presents before America and the world that hates us, that America intends on changing her course and turn the page of our most recent dark past. To all of the Clinton supporters who have read this message, ask yourself why. Why CLinton? Why now? She has been groomed to do one thing, and that is to push an agenda. And if America is not careful, our children will inherite the same things that we have. I prefer something better for my children for the next 8 years. Barack Obama is not against anyone, but he is for peace, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. BELIEVE AGAIN! OBAMA 08'

McCain, Huck in dead heat in SC

Think Tank — Thu, 17 Jan 2008 23:38:41 GMT

HILLARY CLINTON IS MANIPULATING THIS ELECTION! PAY ATTENTION PEOPLE! SHE CAN'T HIDE IT ANYMORE, IT'S OBVIOUS

McCain, Huck in dead heat in SC

Dan, Savannah, GA — Thu, 17 Jan 2008 23:39:09 GMT

Before you vote, make an INFORMED decision.

Go to wikipedia and read Ron Paul's profile, I beg of you. He is the only candidate who uses specifics to promote his ideas of personal liberty, freedom, and return to an adherence to the Constitution. He doesn't use vague references to "change" like everyone else.

McCain, Huck in dead heat in SC

Beautiful America, Philadelphia, PA — Thu, 17 Jan 2008 23:41:12 GMT

Lies, lies, lies... polls are lying. Enough with what happened in NH. I hope Obama's supporters in Nevada don't pay attention to these stupid polls. These false data help only one person, Billary.

McCain, Huck in dead heat in SC

jj — Thu, 17 Jan 2008 23:42:05 GMT

LOOKS LIKE WHEN KITCHEN GETS HOT-Rudy gets out.

McCain, Huck in dead heat in SC

The Moma. Charlotte, NC — Thu, 17 Jan 2008 23:42:26 GMT

Obama, let's just say this... Johnson was talking about his community service. There is just one word to describe it...REZKO. How do you sell out your own blood and go on to insist that you are their best representitive and a reformer to boot! This one is beyond belief.
The Democrats should dump him before the Republicans can come out with the full expose.

McCain, Huck in dead heat in SC

dianne stewart, union, NJ — Thu, 17 Jan 2008 23:43:35 GMT

GO-Bama!! Keep in mind that Obama also won in IOWA, which is about 98% white, so why all of the fuss over racial breakdowns in SC?? The better man is the better man.

McCain, Huck in dead heat in SC

John Carroll, Los Angeles, CA — Fri, 18 Jan 2008 00:09:14 GMT

I'm actually a bit shocked. Are there that many people in the United States who think the most important issue in this country are abortion and gay marriage? Would they SERIOUSLY elect a guy with ZERO foreign policy experience at a time when America most needs it?

Why can't morality be a personal thing? Why do presidents need to believe the same unprovable things as you do?

McCain, Huck in dead heat in SC

Peter Gregos — Fri, 18 Jan 2008 00:09:41 GMT

FRED THOMPSON IS THE ONLY CHOICE

WAKE UP SOUTH CAROLINA AND SAVE US!!!

FRED THOMPSON IS THE NEXT RONALD WILSON REAGAN

McCain, Huck in dead heat in SC

Rafael A. — Fri, 18 Jan 2008 00:09:46 GMT

McCain is a HAS BEEN ...more correctly He has NEVER been!!! Do we have another TAFT (AWAYS running NEVER winning)???

McCain, Huck in dead heat in SC

David J — Fri, 18 Jan 2008 00:10:59 GMT

Mike Huckabee supports making all these illegals citizens. All you Christians should really stop and ponder things before you vote. For one Mike Huckabee wants to reward law breakers and according to the "good" book this is sin. His record proves he will raise taxes, be soft on crime, and if a bill is presented making all these illegal immagranst citizens he will sign it. Just because a man claims to be Christian is no reason to vote for him. As a fundamental Christian I will not support Mike Huckabee.

Ron Paul should be who Christians vote for this year. But then again so many Christains just follow and never read.

Don't be a lemming my Christain brothers and sisters.

Furthermore a theocracy would be as bad as a dictatorship. we should uphold our US Consitution and fully support the Bill of Rights. By the Constitution of the US Congress can make no laws in the respect of a religion. Making laws based on a sects Christian views is a bad trend that we should not follow. In Europe they had a theocracy and look what happened to them.

Wake up and stop trying to use the government a.k.a guns to force your faith on people who do not believe. If athiest try to force their beliefs on you you will cry until the heavens shake but low and behold you will use the same methods to force the athiest to follow your religion.

I'm so feed up with Christian socialist who want to use the government to force their beliefs on us. Mike Huckabee is a socialist.

McCain, Huck in dead heat in SC

April — Fri, 18 Jan 2008 00:11:15 GMT

I wouldnt dismiss polls on Obama.They accurately predict his losses. Just be sceptical when they predict he will win. The opposite applies to Clinton.

McCain, Huck in dead heat in SC

brian — Fri, 18 Jan 2008 00:11:54 GMT

28 years of the Bush and Clinton families (can you imagine)!!! something wrong with this picture. i am sick of both sides neither of them truely care as to what happens to the people on the bottom (mindless sheep). We need not only new blood in the White House we need lots of new blood in the Congress as well. Things will "CHANGE" come November I can only hope the decade of the Robber Barons is over!

McCain, Huck in dead heat in SC

Dave S. - Steuben ME — Fri, 18 Jan 2008 00:13:56 GMT

Mike Huckabee = George Bush = more right wing influence = USA continues its downward spiral

McCain, Huck in dead heat in SC

ikie12pts — Fri, 18 Jan 2008 00:14:01 GMT

Ron, boy did you just work yourself into a real lather over this "Clinton thing"? Have you not noticed that Bill Clinton is no longer the President of the United States?
George Bush is and has run this country into an abyss that will take decades to climb out of.

Nations that we wouldn't have wasted a moment with ,are now bailing out our banks, investment companies etc.
We are in a major recession; the Dow has lost over 1100 points and you're still railing about donors to Bill Clinton's presidency? I guess you're a Huckleberry supporter too...did you hear his quote today in support of Carolina's flying the Confederate flag? He is an idiot...read on.
His comment was "It's your flag. You can do with it whatever you wish. I know in my home state of Arkansas, I would have told the "Powers who be", WHAT they could do with the pole that held the flag".

I thought he was an Evangelical minister. Hmm, I guess not. Maybe I misinterpreted his religious fervor in his Christmas message to the country. What a joke!

McCain, Huck in dead heat in SC

whatsthepoint — Fri, 18 Jan 2008 00:14:17 GMT

To Wayne in LA:
Your quote:
May we please sell the South to someone? Anyone? Half of you can't spell and the other half must live in caves, judging from your 18th-century views. Do you actually believe the stuff you write, or is it just to spark controversy? There should be an IQ test before anyone is allowed to vote.

Wayne, Wayne, Wayne.
I don't live in the South but I bristled at your remark about IQ tests being required to vote but I'll push for that right alongside you if you agree to add to that the requirement of proof of morality and legality and integrity and humanity and I could go on but there isn't much point.

McCain, Huck in dead heat in SC

T Law, Wyoming — Fri, 18 Jan 2008 00:15:04 GMT

Go OBAMA Go!!!

McCain, Huck in dead heat in SC

David Ainsworth, Brandon, MS — Fri, 18 Jan 2008 00:15:09 GMT

Obama?!?! I've always leaned toward the GOP but Obama is an impressive person. Smart, articulate, with some refreshing ideas.

McCain, Huck in dead heat in SC

T. D. — Fri, 18 Jan 2008 00:15:15 GMT

Our government was founded on religious freedom. Let's keep it that way and not push our individual beliefs on everyone else. Separation of church and state is there for a reason. Diversity is what makes this country unique and is one of its greatest resources. Those who oppose two loving individuals so much that they have to ban gay marriage in the constitution sounds like fascists to me. I hope they don't eat shell fish as it says not to eat that in the Bible also! Didn't we fight against fascism in WWII? Do what I say not what I do? Is that the world we want to live in? When will we get off that message!!

McCain, Huck in dead heat in SC

Blue in a red place, Lancaster PA — Fri, 18 Jan 2008 00:15:22 GMT

I am a Democrat BUT how in the world can DA TX say that McCain's Vietnam service is questioned. The guy was a fighter pilot. He was shot down. He refused to get set free before the rest of the prisoners just because his Dad was an admiral. He was a POW for 5 Years. Yo, as we say in Philly, DA TX, what kind of BS is this?

Listen, I ahve seen the guy, in a small group, 10 years ago addressing a bunch of vets (I am not a vet. It wasin a public square on Veterans day.)McCain is a VERY impressive guy. Thje fact that the Rs won't nominate him is the biggest possible
condemnation of their warped world view.

McCain, Huck in dead heat in SC

HOUSTON, TX — Fri, 18 Jan 2008 00:16:53 GMT

KFC HAS ENDORSED OBAMA. I GUESS THE ARE WANTING TO GET AN EARLY BID FOR THAT WHITE HOUSE DINNER OF FRIED CHICKEN AND KOOL-AID, OH AND DON'T FORGET THE WATERMELON FOR DESERT.

McCain, Huck in dead heat in SC

Mike,Ridgefield Park,New Jersey — Fri, 18 Jan 2008 00:20:38 GMT

First Read and all of the other media outlets need to stop acting like little children that got their feelings hurt. The media needs to also stop bandwagon riding. The only reason the media has whole-heartedly supported Obama's campaign is because they have lost readership and are looking to gain it back. All this misguided manipulating of the American people will put a Republican back in the White House. If that is the will of the people, so be it. But you heard it here first. Have some courage, media, and post this. In any job, you look for the most qualified person. This is about competence and performance, not hypotheticals. This is the world we live in now, short attention spans, quick satisfaction, reality TV society, while the country is falling apart all around them.
Remember: The medicine that works best does not always taste the best.
Clinton will make a positive difference in the White House. What are you scared of more - a woman fixing the problem? Or a Clinton fixing the problem? Sounds like Republican propoganda to me. Be ashamed.

McCain, Huck in dead heat in SC

Joe Jameson, Phoenix, AZ. — Fri, 18 Jan 2008 00:21:23 GMT

I wish people would refrain from implying that religion, namely christianity, should be the foundation of our government. Do Christians believe that they alone are the only "good" people in our country. All the major religions of the world are based on a guide for good living and how to treat others well. I am not religious but still try to live ethically. I only seek advancement and prosperity as long as I do so without hurting someone else along the way. I do not need a bible, koran nor a torah to tell me how to live, nor how to treat others. Common sense and a restraint of greed is all one needs to live a good life with good friends and family. I wish all those CLOSED MINDED religious fanatics who are so quick to judge others could set aside their animosity for anything different than what they believe and realize that different is not better nor worse; it's only a different approach. I believe that Huckabee is a good man but will force his personal values on the rest of us. Romney is likeable enough but I have a hard time believing that he has ever known hardship and is therefore out of touch with the "common man" (women too). McCain needs to find something more to talk about than terrorism and as for Ron Paul, I fear his "all AND nothing" approach may be a bit extreme. As for the Dem's, Hillary gives me doubts as to her approach to politics. I've worked with people who micro-managed and it spelled doom every time. I like Edwards but am still waiting to hear solutions and not just our problems from him. Obama at least has offered feasible solutions to some of our country's problems. My only hope is that whoever is elected will choose a staff made up of all the political parties, including people with no affiliation to any party. A collision of ideas will always bring about the best results that is FAIR to all while maintaining a balance as to approaching the issues at hand. For me, Obama and Edwards seem to be the the candidates most likely to do this, and I'm a registered republican. Get it together people. LOOK at the big picture and set aside your own selfish greed!!!

McCain, Huck in dead heat in SC

Roy Warner,Milwaukie,Oregon — Fri, 18 Jan 2008 00:22:02 GMT

I can't believe that OBMA is using the racist against Hilary. After all Bill Clinton and Hillary always have supported them. I am very discouraged on OBMA.
The IRISH were treated much worse in Ireland than the the African America were treated. Also remember Hillary capained for OBMA for the seat in the senate.
And he treats Hillary as a raciast.

McCain, Huck in dead heat in SC

Curt Shelton, Groton, Massachusetts — Fri, 18 Jan 2008 00:22:15 GMT

Vote for who you want, but understand this, We need to keep our eye on the Muslim Extrememist who want to murder all of us. We do not need the liberal Obama or Clinton to lead this country against these fanatics, we need someone who will protect this country from attacks, Please use your heads vote for Mitt Romney

McCain, Huck in dead heat in SC

Barbara K, Houston, TX — Fri, 18 Jan 2008 00:22:34 GMT

Hey, GOP voters... Go ahead and vote for Huckabee! He will NEVER be elected in November.

McCain, Huck in dead heat in SC

Michael Smith — Fri, 18 Jan 2008 00:23:20 GMT

OBAMA IS A CLOSET RACIST. HE AND HIS FELLOW TRINITY CHURCH OF CHRIST PASTOR AND MEMBERS. HE TALKS OUT BOTH SIDES OF HIS MOUTH. TALKS ABOUNT UNITY BUT IS A SOLID MEMBER OF A CHURCH THAT BELIEVES IN BEING SEPARATE BUT EQUAL, AND PRIDES ITSELF ON "RACIAL EXCLUSIVITY. GIVE ME A BREAK, OR SHOULD I SAY "N*GGA PLEASE".

McCain, Huck in dead heat in SC

Dan Kay, Kent, Wash — Fri, 18 Jan 2008 00:23:40 GMT

I'm 47 years old and am sick of hearing the word "Change" when election time comes around. The fact of the matter is that neither party cares for you at all. They will still be the rich and powerful of this country regardless of who wins. If you cannot see this you are standing in line for the slaughterhouse. "Change" will only come about when both the Dems and Repubs are sent home!!! And Americans take back their country.

McCain, Huck in dead heat in SC

ikie12pts — Fri, 18 Jan 2008 00:24:12 GMT

Citizen, hang in there! You're so right about Huckabee etc...If these right-wing holyrollers want to vote for Huckleberry, that's their right, but it's also our right NOT to.

McCain, Huck in dead heat in SC

Bizegrama, TX — Fri, 18 Jan 2008 00:25:46 GMT

As for me I'm sick of all the negative campaigning and Congress not being able to work together for the best of country. We have to compromise on issues to get things accomplished. If we keep being so divided we will destroy our country.

I just want the candidate to tell me the truth and not promise things they know they can't accomplish. I want the candidates to tell me exactly how they would try to accomplish whatever the say they can do.

I liked Huckabee on the debates, but his lack information on the world situations [I don't want another George Bush & I'm a registered Republican, but considering re-registering as an Independent]and promising no amnesty to illegals isn't realistic. With 12 million illegals, the government would spend billions trying to ship them home - that money could be better spent on other needs in this country.

I give McCain credit for at least trying to solve the issue of illegals. Nobody else has come up with a realistic solution. And the illegal situation has been with us for over 75 years! {I was raised in California].

If I were to vote on the basis economy or religion, I'd vote of Mitt Romney.

But in the end, I think that John McCain has the best grasp on the reality of what this country faces in all aspects. He's the only one that's complained about earmarks and other frivolous expenditures of Congress. If you haven't read McCain's book "Why Courage Matters", I would suggest you read it.

I've never been one to vote party, I vote for whoever I feel is the best candidate. The American people need to educate themselves and make sure they don't take the word of the media. After watching C-Span and looking into the actual bills, etc that are proposed by Congress, I've reached the conclusion people don't always use intelligence to elect the leaders of our country.

Hopefully, people will take time to really check out the candidates and not vote on emotion or charisma.

McCain, Huck in dead heat in SC

R Jordan, Houston, Texas — Fri, 18 Jan 2008 00:26:02 GMT

Mike Huckabee is the clear choice for 08'. He was raised by a firefighter father who instilled great values which has made Mike a public servant. He gained vast amounts of knowledge on how to communicate and deal with people and their problems as a Pastor. As a broadcaster he has honed great communications skills which enable him to lead others into a great problem solving resolve. As a Governor, he has gained vast amounts of skills in running a small-scaled USA in Arkansas. As a Christian, he knows how to lead his family, friends, and country in the direction of high moral standards by the example of Christ. I am impressed by his response on how to deal with evil-doers who would come against the great USA, "the next thing they will see is the gates of HELL!" Go Governor Mike, I am praying for you.

McCain, Huck in dead heat in SC

Doug Somers Franklin, WI — Fri, 18 Jan 2008 00:27:52 GMT

Hillary contends she has gained 35 years of political experience by being married to Bill.
What next,Barbara Bush for President?

McCain, Huck in dead heat in SC

Brit Dons — Fri, 18 Jan 2008 00:28:11 GMT

Mr. Huckabee was the governor of Arkansas for 10 years. Reminds me of another Arkansas governor who became president of the United States. Mr. Huckabee has plenty of experience to take on the mantle of president, and it is certainly not a negative that the man has some moral values, too. Those are badly needed of a leader. We don't want another Monica Lewinsky scandal in the White House. The Clintons have had their turn. Hope they go away and stay away for good. Good riddance!

McCain, Huck in dead heat in SC

Lonestarkaty — Fri, 18 Jan 2008 14:07:54 GMT

I appreciate the person who did the research on HRC backgroud as a First Lady, and the VERY interesting information about funding of the Presidential Library. I do not doubt HRC intelligence and apparaently there is a personable side to her that is not always evident.
My questions is, if you knew yor husband was not faithful and I have no doubt that she knew, why didn't you deal with it before he was elected to the highest office. I believe Pres. Clinton did a creditable job, but I could not elect a person who in her own right bears some of the responsibility for her husband's actions. I believe that is VERY poor judgement on her part and we the American people had to bare the burden in press all over the world. It is unacceptable. I believe she is a true politician in the worst sense of the definition.

McCain, Huck in dead heat in SC

Lonestarkaty — Fri, 18 Jan 2008 14:18:27 GMT

I wanted to ask if any others who were watching the debate picked up on Obama's mention of how he not only would bring all parties to the table to find a plan for universal healthcare, but he would televise it on C-SPAN. I don't know how it would work, but I have to respect the idea of making it more transparent to the general public and not a behind CLOSED door event. That to me show a change and a new way of leading.

McCain, Huck in dead heat in SC

Don Cooper — Fri, 18 Jan 2008 14:23:39 GMT

The problem for Obama is that his strengths are those constituencies that do not vote (Young and African-American), while Clinton's strengths in people over fifty and white people do vote. In New Hampshire only 25% of the registered African-Americans voted in the primary , as opposed to almost triple that amount for white people. Clinton has a pretty good get out the vote operation, while Obama's campaign is very good at caucuses.

McCain, Huck in dead heat in SC

C.Myles — Fri, 18 Jan 2008 14:24:29 GMT

Why would any, ANY African American vote for Hillary after what she has said recently. It has been proof that the Clintons have USED the community, rather than really help it.She is 2-faced, has 2 or 3 positions on each issue, is owned by special interests & lobbyists, & cannot be trusted.

McCain, Huck in dead heat in SC

Richard, Baltimore — Fri, 18 Jan 2008 14:24:48 GMT

As a Democrat I sure hope the religious nuts vote for Huckabee, because in the general election, he doen't have a prayer.

McCain, Huck in dead heat in SC

a concerned voter. — Fri, 18 Jan 2008 14:29:46 GMT

After a steady diet of clinton and obama, I am sick of it. Edwards is almost forgotten by most. I say that Edwards will prevail.

McCain, Huck in dead heat in SC

rett morgan adair wasilla alaska — Fri, 18 Jan 2008 14:38:38 GMT

that skull and cross bones society scares me, I would like to see obama/edwards take a shot at it. I trust obama more than the rest...just my gut feeling

McCain, Huck in dead heat in SC

Rachel Farer, Newark, DE — Fri, 18 Jan 2008 15:04:39 GMT

Huckabee is going to defeat McCain in South Carolina because he is not calling the symbols of the South racist or hateful. Can you imagine a politician getting votes if he said crosses were hateful simply because they were used in the crusades?

McCain is the best candidate to continue the war in Iraq and the only candidate who can win it. He is also the best able to win in November. Still, if he is making bigoted remarks about the South, he deserves to lose to Huckabee. It is too bad that Huckabee cannot win in the general election.

McCain, Huck in dead heat in SC

FairTax Info — Fri, 18 Jan 2008 15:13:57 GMT

Mr. Huckabee's FairTax is the single most important public policy issue - though the media is not on to it yet.
The FairTax rate of 23 percent on a total taxable consumption base of $11.244 trillion will generate $2.586 trillion dollars – $358 billion more than the taxes it replaces. [BHKPT]
The FairTax has the broadest base and the lowest rate of any single-rate tax reform plan. [THBP]
Real wages are 10.3 percent, 9.5 percent, and 9.2 percent higher in years 1, 10, and 25, respectively than would otherwise be the case. [THBNP]
The economy as measured by GDP is 2.4 percent higher in the first year and 11.3 percent higher by the 10th year than it would otherwise be. [ALM]
Consumption benefits [ALM]:
• Disposable personal income is higher than if the current tax system remains in place: 1.7 percent in year 1, 8.7 percent in year 5, and 11.8 percent in year 10.
• Consumption increases by 2.4 percent more in the first year, which grows to 11.7 percent more by the tenth year than it would be if the current system were to remain in place.
• The increase in consumption is fueled by the 1.7 percent increase in disposable (after-tax) personal income that accompanies the rise in incomes from capital and labor once the FairTax is enacted.
• By the 10th year, consumption increases by 11.7 percent over what it would be if the current tax system remained in place, and disposable income is up by 11.8 percent.
Over time, the FairTax benefits all income groups. Of 42 household types (classified by income, marital status, age), all have lower average remaining lifetime tax rates under the FairTax than they would experience under the current tax system. [KR]
Implementing the FairTax at a 23 percent rate gives the poorest members of the generation born in 1990 a 13.5 percent improvement in economic well-being; their middle class and rich contemporaries experience a 5 percent and 2 percent improvement, respectively. [JK]
Based on standard measures of tax burden, the FairTax is more progressive than the individual income tax, payroll tax, and the corporate income tax. [THBPN]
Charitable giving increases by $2.1 billion (about 1 percent) in the first year over what it would be if the current system remained in place, by 2.4 percent in year 10, and by 5 percent in year 20. [THPDB]
On average, states could cut their sales tax rates by more than half, or 3.2 percentage points from 5.4 to 2.2 percent, if they conformed their state sales tax bases to the FairTax base. [TBJ]
The FairTax provides the equivalent of a supercharged mortgage interest deduction, reducing the true cost of buying a home by 19 percent. [WM]

McCain, Huck in dead heat in SC

Brian, Chicago, IL — Fri, 18 Jan 2008 15:15:07 GMT

First off Obama's a fraud..yeah sure he lives on the southside of Chicago..but no one ever says what part of Chicago..the nice little rich neighborhood of South Shore, right next to Lake Michigan...he doesn't care about the poor, he's living in his nice lil' cozy townhouse on the lakefront. Secondly, his middle names Hussein, his dad is muslim...I would guess he's got some muslim beliefs somewhere down the line...I don't know about you but I will never vote anyone with a muslim background into office!!

RUDY in '08'

McCain, Huck in dead heat in SC

Charlottean — Fri, 18 Jan 2008 15:15:28 GMT

See poster Earls in San Francisco's accurate synopsis above in this blog regarding the dishonesty of Clinton's claims of superior experience.

McCain, Huck in dead heat in SC

Ken, Stony Brook, NY — Fri, 18 Jan 2008 15:16:28 GMT

Huckabee appears to be a democrat who is opposed to gay marriage and abortion. He would make an excellent third party candidate. My concern with South Carolina is that it is considered one of the sleaziest states in terms of politics although it is dominated by evangelicals. Question is how that would translate into White House policy.

McCain, Huck in dead heat in SC

Paul, Nashua, New Hampshire — Fri, 18 Jan 2008 15:23:12 GMT

Can the American people be this dumb? I hope not... There are many issues which are complex and significantly impact our nations socio-economic balance, as well as, where we will stand as a global trading partner. Perhaps most voters simply look at their immediate needs or causes. From my view the Clinton's are self serving and and pandering bureaucrats. But with enough "buzz", money and influence the marketing goes on. I encourage all voters to read the press, the blogs and look beyond the immediate needs. Look at the ability to lead, chnage for the better, unite people, motivate and inspire, and most of all be truthful and direct in good times and bad. I encourage you to give serious consideartion to Obama, Romney, McCain. And in closing lets make the absolute best choice we can to move forward with this great nation.

McCain, Huck in dead heat in SC

Joann, Kansas City, Missouri — Fri, 18 Jan 2008 15:26:15 GMT

I don't know who to vote for!! The way I see it, there is Clinton who thinks the government can do everything for us as if we are not capable enough to taking care of ourselves on top of which all of her entitlement programs will cost us all way too much! I DON'T THINK SHE'S THE ONE! Obama who gives an excellent speech, but what does he really say? And has he ever really told how he will do all those glorious things he so enthusiastically talks about? Yes we can is not a platform for the Oval Office! Is he going to take the job of President as lightly as he has taken the job of Senator and miss tons of important chances to vote, isn't voting one of our most cherished rights? I DON'T THINK HE'S THE ONE!
Edwards, enough said, he doesn't have a chance. I DON'T THINK HE'S THE ONE! McCain, does he have any true convictions? Even if I don't agree with someone's opinions or belief's, if they stand up for what their conviction's are, I can respect them. McCain just seems to say whatever will get him the most votes, most of the candidates are at least loyal to the party to which they belong, McCain doesn't even have enough spine to do that. I DON'T THINK HE'S THE ONE! Huckabee, if you raised taxes in Arkansas, just admit it. Dancing around the subject will not make it go away! You can't be a good President if you won't admit to what you do for fear some people won't like you. I also don't think he could be elected nationally. I DON'T THINK HE'S THE ONE! Romney, would probably be good on domestic issues, but what about foreign policy? I'M NOT 100% SURE ABOUT HIM! Thompson, his last debate he sounded like he could be the next President, but it was too little to late and therefore I don't think he could win. I DON'T THINK HE'S THE ONE! Guliani, if you don't even care about the voters in Iowa, N.H., Michigan, or South Carolina, why should we think you care about what any of us think? He is treating this election like a Vegas trip where you bet according to the odds. I DON'T THINK HE'S THE ONE!
All of these candidates need to quit playing to certain groups, changing their accents, language, and view points depending on which state they happen to be in. If you pay close attention you can see how they speak differently if they are addressing a majority of blacks, hispanics, whites, poor, middle-class, rich, male, female, northern, southern, quit patronizing the American Citizen. We are not ignorant and can see through your pandering. Just give us the honest facts about your ideas, plans, and direction you would take our country. We are all wise enough to make up our own mind if you would all just stop the rethoric and put your open, honest agenda on the table for all to see!

McCain, Huck in dead heat in SC

SB-Snohomish, Wa. — Fri, 18 Jan 2008 15:26:37 GMT

It sounds to me like Jamie in Salt Lake is just looking to say that he/she voted for the "Winner" when maybe he/she should step back and look more closely at Fred and vote his/her conscience. Jamie, you supported Fred at one point, it sounds like you don't want to anymore because you want to be part of the crowd and not vote because you believe in his values and his stancce on the current events.
I know he's not on the top 3 rungs of the ladder, but he is the first candidate in a long time I feel comfortable voting for and actually WANT to vote for. He may still run off the Republican ticket too.

McCain, Huck in dead heat in SC

Supporter — Fri, 18 Jan 2008 15:28:34 GMT

Stay focus Obama, you are already there!

McCain, Huck in dead heat in SC

lEWANIA CHAPMAN — Fri, 18 Jan 2008 15:34:27 GMT

YOU BETTER THINK CAREFULLY WHO YOU VOTE FOR AS OUR DEMOCRATIC NOMINEE, YOU MAY JUST BE PLACING ANOTHER REPUBLICAN IN THE PRESIDENTIAL OFFICE. THERE IS A TIME AND PLACE FOR EVERYTHING, PAY CLOSE ATTENTION THE TIME IS NOT NOW FOR ONE OF OUR DEMOCRATIC CANDIDATES.

McCain, Huck in dead heat in SC

Regina Felix, Columbia SC — Fri, 18 Jan 2008 15:44:49 GMT

I'm a white middle-aged female South Carolinian voting for Obama, and I'm not alone. He's the only honest person in the race.

McCain, Huck in dead heat in SC

cris, Fort Worth Texas — Fri, 18 Jan 2008 15:48:26 GMT

Hey wayne....we dont all live and caves...and some of us are actually educated....but when we go to Walmart...it scares us sometimes. So if you think it hard to be on the outside looking in...trying being a Texas Democrat the last 8 years.

McCain, Huck in dead heat in SC

Baltimore, MD — Fri, 18 Jan 2008 15:48:26 GMT

First of all y'all need to stop bashing Huckabee. He is being honest on what he believes. He is not flip flopping like Romney or have a hidden agenda like the seat warmer Fred (staying only to pull votes from Huckabee). If you want to vote for a president who is only good in talking and nothign to back it then vote for Obama or Fred. As for me, Huckabee shows that he is not shy of what he believes in.

What I am tired of is the right extreme like Rush ( who I used to like and listen to) and people like Fred Barnes, Laura Ingrim from Fox news unfairly criticizing Huckabe.. They dont want to listen to the facts and that is shocking for me who have believed their words all these years... I see now how shallow they are. So come Election day this is how I am going to vote - FFRR ( Fed up with Fox and Rush Republicans)

1. Huckabee is the nominee _ Vote Republican
2. Mccain is the nominee - Vote Republican ( if I am free)
3. Giuliani - say home
4. Romney/Fred - Vote for Hillary. If its obama/Edwards then stay home - obama/Edwards are a joke and match the flip flopper Romney and good for nothing Fred.

I personally dont have anything against all the other candidates but a lot of disappointment and anger against Rush/Fox. They have successfully managed to anger the conservatives. I'd rather teach them a lesson this time and hope for a better candidate list in 4 years than be stuck with a mediocre and reward Fox and Rush

McCain, Huck in dead heat in SC

Ron Davis, Lakewoood, CO — Fri, 18 Jan 2008 16:13:37 GMT

Thanks Earls for your elaboration on Hillary's resume. I was mystified by her "experience" claim from day one and I can't believe the voters have bought it. If that's her strongest argument that's a pretty weak candidacy. The Republicans will surely make a huge issue of this. Imagine this "experience" claim vs. McCain on either elected office or defense, what a joke. Of course being the Clinton's they'll just change the story for the general election.

TO THE PRESS: It's not too late to redeem yourselves and shine a spotlight on this fabrication by the Clinton campaign. And, if she gets nominated and flops her position in the general election to the "change agent" (which she'll have to do) you should be there to highlight it as well. "Hey, weren't you supposed to be the Washington establishment candidate with experience?"

Let's elect someone who cares more about ideas than just getting elected.

McCain, Huck in dead heat in SC

Frank, macon, ga. — Fri, 18 Jan 2008 16:13:44 GMT

To: Tennessee of Knoxville

Neither will Fred Thompson if the rest of have anything to say about it!

McCain, Huck in dead heat in SC

Robin, Atlanta GA — Fri, 18 Jan 2008 16:25:43 GMT

Wayne from Los Angeles...you're about as ignorant as a person can be. So southerners live in caves? And you say we have out dated views? You're talking about selling the south!!!! If you had any IQ at all, you wouldn't be so quick to shoot your mouth off.

McCain, Huck in dead heat in SC

Lynne, Little Rock, Arkansas — Fri, 18 Jan 2008 16:31:34 GMT

How many of you people on here want our country to be ruled by the "Black Panthers" That is exactly what you will get with Barack Obama.
I am a Centurist Democrat but I applaud the Conservative TV shows like Tucker Carlson and Sean Hannity for exposing the support for Louis Farrakhan by Jeremiah Wright, Obama's Spiritual Adviser.
Dangerous business, Obama supporters- not to mention his inexperience. Articles appear daily by reputable reporters in the Washington Post, Politico.com,
Newsmax.com, New York Times and many more. I have the links to all of them if anyone would like them, there is another one out today.
THIS AIN'T GONNA HAPPEN HERE IN AMERICA.
Instead of sending the Clintons back to Arkansas which is stupid to say since Senator Clinton will still be a New York Senator no matter what, but I say
Send Obama back to Kenya where he seems to belong.
Oh by the way you people that write the long diatribes on here - do you really think we want to wade through those? - keep it short and to the point so we can understand what your point is.

McCain, Huck in dead heat in SC

Russ, Wilmington NC — Fri, 18 Jan 2008 16:51:16 GMT

Wayne in LA. I agree that IQ test for voters is a good idea. However, your view about the southern individual is misguided. The majority of the citizens in my state (NC) live in the 21st century. Like all areas of the country, LA included, we still have a limited number in the 18th.

Vote on election day. Vote for the canidate that will bring everyone into the 21 century. Vote for the canidate that supports equal rights for all.

McCain, Huck in dead heat in SC

Jen Blacksburg, Virginia — Fri, 18 Jan 2008 16:52:25 GMT

For all Americans out there, this is a very exciting time in American politics. Make sure you go out there and vote for whomever you wish!

GO OBAMA!!!!! Yes We Can! Cause I believe :D

McCain, Huck in dead heat in SC

Pauline, NYC — Fri, 18 Jan 2008 17:02:53 GMT

Let's be very discriminating about what we read and hear about this race. One this is true, this Presidential race will go down in history as one that has drawn the most attention of the people, young, in-between and old in the nation, if not in the world- bare none!!!!

Hats off to Earl of San Fran. who took some honest time in researching the 'political backgrounds' of the two most popular contenders. It is something to allege that you have done or earned the right to a position when in fact, that may not be the case. Very enlightening in deed!!!!!!!!!!

I happen to favor the fresh, common sence, people based prespectives of Obama. It is after all, the poeple and a level headed leader, who should drive the kinds of decisions that are made in a nation.

As in the words of Dr King, may Obama be judged "Not by the color of his skin, but by the content of his character."

Everyone, pay very close attention to this race. I cannot emphasize it enough, pay clooooose attention and- may the best man, or in this case, woman, win.

McCain, Huck in dead heat in SC

MH, Tampa, FL — Fri, 18 Jan 2008 18:06:59 GMT

Wake up people. This country will not elect a black muslim for president. Obama may do well in certain urban areas, but he will not win a national election. Irregardless of what your party affiliation is, if REAL change in the direction of this country is what you want, the only viable candidate is Ron Paul. Nothing will change if any of the party puppets are elected.

McCain, Huck in dead heat in SC

Luke, Illinois — Fri, 18 Jan 2008 21:01:53 GMT

The best choice for this country would be McCain and Huckabee together. If you could get these two on one ticket they would give the Republicans the best chance to win. They both appeal to different parts of the Republican party and McCain would help draw in that ever so imporntant independent vote. They both also have had plenty of experience, and McCain is the best suited to be the Commander and Chief of our armed forces. After all he is a military hero....

McCain, Huck in dead heat in SC

Fred Beyne-Indianapolis, indiana — Fri, 18 Jan 2008 21:06:10 GMT

If hillary is the democratic pick I will vote republican!

McCain, Huck in dead heat in SC

Jeff Nixon, Hamilton,N.J. — Fri, 18 Jan 2008 21:21:42 GMT

OBAMA/EDWARDS 2008 All the clowns that voted for Bush it's time you rectify the situation you helped put the middle class and below in(deciding between paying your cable or phone bill because the gas and health care is so much you cant afford both)! What's done is done we accept your apology now do the right thing and vote OBAMA/EDWARDS our interests are their special interests. Sincerely Your's, MIDDLE CLASS WHITEMAN WITH 5 KIDS TIRED OF GETTING SCREWED! I DON'T WANT A HANDOUT I'M JUST SICK OF BEING SCREWED AND LIED TO!

McCain, Huck in dead heat in SC

m ray birmingham alabama — Fri, 18 Jan 2008 21:25:20 GMT

go obama and mrs clinton i hope you both team up and win, one way or another you would make a great team. a new america.checkmate

McCain, Huck in dead heat in SC

Danny, MI — Fri, 18 Jan 2008 21:27:58 GMT

Most people deny the role of race in the democratic contest. But in fact it plays an important role. Just looking into the supporter of Senator Obama: 70% Aferican-American for Obama vs 30% for senator Clinton. I believe this will hurt Senator Obama in long run since people will question whether he can attract more supporter from other race in the general election.

McCain, Huck in dead heat in SC

Kimberly, Allen, Texas — Fri, 18 Jan 2008 21:31:39 GMT

The polls with these ratings also say 7% of those who have said who they will vote for could change on day of election and a huge number of people are undecided. Enough of a swing that even the "frontrunners" can be unseated. All people can and will make a difference. I keep hearing that people like and agree with what Fred Thompson has to say but they are concerned he can't win so they are not going to vote for him. South Carolina - you are it. You can vote your conscience and make a difference. The polls make it clear Fred can win the state -- there is enough swing. Vote the way you want Washington to be and YOU - South Carolina - can make it happen. Check out www.fred08.com.

McCain, Huck in dead heat in SC

Camille M. Warring — Fri, 18 Jan 2008 21:38:18 GMT

I have responded two or three times in the past 3 days but you have not printed my comments and I am beginning to believe it is because nothing good said about Clinton is printed....Almost all of your commentaries are positive remarks about Obama..I am beginning to believe that people like you and CNN news are strictly one-sided...and that is way you keep pushing Obama and everything good you can print about him. The media is the main reason why she is not doing as good as she should because the negative tings about her are never printed. Oh well...no worries...she still will be our next president because she is the smartest, most expienced and the only one capable of turning things around and everyone knows that based on her track record.

McCain, Huck in dead heat in SC

OBAMA IN '08, Colorado — Sat, 19 Jan 2008 19:00:38 GMT

I was a fervent Hillary supporter, and believed that she was the best choice for President in 2008. I never took a good look at Obama, always dismissing his "lack" of experience. Then, he won Iowa and I watched his victory speech. Wow! The enthusiasm for Obama rivals that of JFK. His supporters don't vote for him because they think he is a little better than another candidate, or that he is probably the best chance in the general election; they vote for him because they are inspired by him, and are passionate about him. Wouldn't it be great to have a President we could admire? On the question of Obama's experience, I did some research and realized that (surprise!) Hillary had misled us! (Gasp!) He has MORE experience in elected office than she does! His unyielding work for America is evident once you start researching him. Obama has pulled support from the heart of America; his campaign is based off of grass-roots, not backed by the "all-powerful" Democratic National Committee (Hillary). If we want real change, then Obama is the answer; Hillary can't even compete with him. Listen to the very-recent convert (who would have died for Hillary; I know...it’s bad); I've experienced the Obama phenomenon firsthand, and it’s unreal. OBAMA in 2008!!!

McCain, Huck in dead heat in SC

k, South Dakota — Sat, 19 Jan 2008 19:24:31 GMT

I believe that there are a lot of people out there who want Thompson for president, but Thompson hasn't shown he cares. I want him for president. He isn't trying hard enough. So means that I will have to make a difficult decision once he is eliminated from the race.

McCain, Huck in dead heat in SC

Ken K, Lex, Ky — Sat, 19 Jan 2008 20:35:23 GMT

Obama vs the Clintons. Bill is acting like he's the candidate and smearing dirt/lies as he goes along. I am sick of the Clintons and I voted for Bill twice. If Hillary wins, the country moves not one inch closer to unifying the great divide between Rep/Ind/Dems. I'm supporting Obama.

McCain, Huck in dead heat in SC

Mike , Pennsylvania — Sat, 19 Jan 2008 21:00:24 GMT

Why is it that if anyone candidate speaks out to end the war he is blacked out almost totally by the media.Think about this for a bit.If Hill was out to end the war immediately the media would have us forget her name altogether.Wake up PPL.If Obama was silenced we would be at war.I dont care if the candidate is a radical muslim, in this country he has a right to speak.Private media is burning both ends of the candle to get what they want, not us.

McCain, Huck in dead heat in SC

Rhonda Lyons, Erie, PA — Sat, 19 Jan 2008 22:17:26 GMT

My whole family (even the 2 year old) chants loud for OBAMA. He is the man with the message and the means. Billary has no real experience other than planning White House dinner parties and traveling from time to time with Chelsey. When I hear her and look at her all I see is manipulation and trickery. She lacks authenticity and the crying disgusted me thoroughly. I am absolutely inspired by Sen. Obama. I can see him in the White House actually making change instead of simply talking about it just to get votes (Hillary). He's the real deal. Women of America stop being "baited" by Ms. Clinton's phony appeal to your emotions. Let's stop electing with our hearts and make a decision based on the facts. As a African-American woman I am moved to vote for Sen. Obama because before he even placed his hat in the ring I heard his message and I believed in him. He's not out there to "prove anything". He's not just trying to put another political notch on his belt. He truly wants to help this country out of the rut that it's in. Let's put aside out differences and make a decision that JUST MAKES GOOD SENSE!

McCain, Huck in dead heat in SC

Jay Lochbuie, CO. — Sat, 19 Jan 2008 23:11:39 GMT

Huckabee stands for the Stars and Bars. He is got my vote. I don't pass jugement on anyone. It is our history. We have a saying in this country Love it or leave it.