First thoughts: The campaign gap

MAB, Wash., DC — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 13:23:15 GMT

Maybe she doesn't drop out today, but what about May 20th? Interesting theory here:

http://ccpsblog.blogspot.com/2008/03/will-may-20th-be-end-of-democratic.html

First thoughts: The campaign gap

Chuck, NY — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 13:24:58 GMT

After a relatively quiet day yesterday, I sense we are back into another bitterness cycle between the Obama and Clinton camps. My question is why all media, TV/print news/internet/talk radio, is letting Clinton off the hook? What unknown power does the Clinton camp have that scares all of these media types? You see it all the time on the Clinton News Network (CNN) & the Clinton Broadcast System (CBS), but yesterday I saw retraction form Hardball and Countdown. Our own Chuck Todd must fear the Clinton’s because he even suggests Clinton is still in this race. As much as I personally like Tucker Carlson, I see right through his ploys to have Michigan and Florida re-votes because that is what the GOP and Rush want.

Is it no wonder that the big brass of the party are trying to get her out? What about the unnamed source who claimed she would either “walk to the door, or be shown the door”?

And why is there no pushback against her for constantly using the 3 AM phone call ploy? Why is she being allowed to set the debate on Michigan & Florida? She broke the rules, not Obama. Are we doomed to finish out this week with another round of bitter battle between the 2 camps?

First thoughts: The campaign gap

Ron, TX — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 13:26:08 GMT

All McCain's got on the 100-years argument is a "Ah ha! Obama said I didn't want to stay in 100 years FIGHTING, just a peacetime commitment!"? Wow, if that's how you claim to win an argument, that's just absolutely pathetic. Does McCain really think 10 or 20 years of hard fighting is any different in the public's eyes than 100?

The fact of the matter is, the argument is over ANY sort of protracted engagement versus beginning withdrawal. McCain favors protracted engagement. Unknown timeframe. Sky rocketing costs at a time when the US is facing economic peril. Unknown results if we stay.

Sounds like a losing argument to me...

First thoughts: The campaign gap

sotiredofignorance — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 13:30:29 GMT

The difference between South Korea and Iraq is that the zealots in Iraq will continue to put U.S. troops in serious risk. Nothing that has happened suggests that they will lay down arms and agree that the U.S. should be the peacekeeper there. It is naive to suggest that a true "peacekeeping" force can be established. At some point, the Iraq govt. is going to have to become responsible for policing itself, reconciling with all, and being able to govern without regard to ethnicity. They have not shown any desire to do that.

First thoughts: The campaign gap

Evan, Canada — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 13:31:39 GMT

People who think that the US can stay ONE single day in the middle east without being attacked are day dreaming. I am originally from that region and know the hate they have for the US because of Israel.
The US got attacked in Lebanon, Yemen. Saudi Arabia and so on. So forget about 100 years let alone 1 day without attacks!

First thoughts: The campaign gap

Amanda, Missoula, Montana — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 13:32:38 GMT

Oh God, no please. Gore would be insane to do that, he would be much better off just running himself, and if he wanted the presidency, that's what he would have done, i believe.
This also is too late in the game for this. Would Gore really want to join this circus act the Clinton's are displaying? And after they ruined his campaign before?
Plus, millions, like myself will see this as a desperate attempt to grasp what is already Obama's away from him. It is horrible to see what Hillary has done to the party, to her fellow democrats, and
the country. i used to respect her, i now think she is evil.
I am a 44 year old white mom in Montana, and guess what? Bill Clinton is here, and I could care less.
The tickets for Obama were gone in 5 minutes.

If this is stolen from Obama, I will have lost so much respect for our country, via Clinton.... and honestly, if that happens McCain will win. Everyone seems to know that except Hillary. I would rather work with McCain on changing his stance on the war than deal with Hillary ..... he might listen, after all he is a maverick. There would be a greater chance of that than an honest Clinton.

First thoughts: The campaign gap

truthseeker — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 13:35:56 GMT

"why is it the campaign believes sending Bill in first to a new primary state is the way to go?" he's scouting ahead for sniper fire. I can't stand to even look at the faces of the lying Clintons anymore. Disgusting. How can ANYone still support THEM? LIARS. Haven't you had enough lies from W? What a mess.

First thoughts: The campaign gap

Paul Miller, Woodbridge, VA — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 13:35:59 GMT

It might take McCain a hundred years to get that toothpaste back in the tube.

That said, the Democrats should elevate this conversation to one of strategy (rather than political BS). What do we expect to be the result in Iraq? Can it ever be anything other than a greater Iran? If so, how does anyone figure that?

That's where the debate ought to be. Because if a greater Iran is the end result no matter what, then we're just pouring $12 billion a month to delay the inevitable conclusion of this chess game, in which we have checkmated ourselves.

First thoughts: The campaign gap

Pat, Boston, MA — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 13:37:16 GMT

January 23, 2008

From Senator Jim Webb's Home Page:
Invest in Infrastructure to Stimulate the Economy

Urges Senate Finance Committee to Invest in People and Job Creation by Investing in Vital Construction Projects

Washington, DC—Senator Jim Webb (D-VA) said today that the best way to spur job creation and economic growth is to prioritize investment in infrastructure projects. In a letter to Senate Finance Committee Chairman Max Baucus and Ranking Member Charles Grassley, Webb urged that a large portion of the stimulus package be devoted to infrastructure development, “putting people to work and at the same time benefiting the nation’s capital needs.”

Senator Webb also advocated the extension and expansion of unemployment insurance benefits, heating assistance for low income households, immediate rebates that target low- and moderate-wage earners, federal assistance to the states to help finance Medicaid, and the extension of the research and development tax credit for businesses.

“Many families in the United States are experiencing economic distress,” said Webb. “The combination of a decline in housing prices, the sub-prime crisis, a slowdown in job growth, and an increase in unemployment are threatening low- and middle-wage earners. Congress needs to act on an urgent, bipartisan basis to protect hardworking Americans.”

“The strongest tonic for economic stimulation is investment in infrastructure projects. We succeed both in terms of creating jobs and addressing our country’s sagging transport and water systems,” continued Webb. “Priority should be placed on projects that have been structured for quick expenditure and on expediting federal approval of outstanding projects.”

Obama/Webb 2008.

First thoughts: The campaign gap

Gustavo Herrera, Baltimore MD — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 13:38:27 GMT

I just don't see any shred of plausibility to the notion that Gore would back Hillary Clinton. He didn't like playing third fiddle to her when Bill was president, and he never liked her to begin with, by all accounts.

Besides, his theme of environmental awareness and the need for radical changes to our current policies and even lifestyles jives much better with Obama's campaign platform than Clinton's.

www.nationalscold.com

First thoughts: The campaign gap

gab — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 13:40:26 GMT

Why would we want to keep troops inany couontry for decades? Why do we still have troops in Germany 60 years after WWII? Dow e think the NAZI will raise up again and assume leadership of the country? Unlikely.
It seems that South Korea doesn't really want us there either. I agree with Ron Paul on this one, why have permanent American troops all over the world?

First thoughts: The campaign gap

JAY Chicago il — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 13:44:41 GMT

There is not question about it, it is not worthy to stay in Iraq, we are spending so much money over there, money that can be use for poor people in his country, to help the economy, health and those who are loosign their home. but we have a president that is insane and should be charge with war crime.
Of course, itis impossible tod o it, becasue nobody really care about it.

WHen Bush is doing all he is doing, detroying this country, nobody do anything, when Clinton had teh unfair with M. L. they spent millions of dollar processing him, that is ridiculous, that only can be accepted by a insane mind.

this country has lost sense of what is really matter and what is really crime. everything is politically motivated.

One example of it, the big support the media is providing Obama, even when tehy know taht he is not capable, he is not ready, he is not credible... but the media keep pushing for him. IT SHOW THAT THIS COUNTRY IN LEAD BY STUPID PEOPLE WHO FOCUS ON THE MOST STUPID, RIDICULOUS AND INSANE ISSUE.

First thoughts: The campaign gap

Sara Winthrop, West Chester, PA — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 13:49:46 GMT

I am wondering what the expectations are for Obama and Clinton in PA. She has been leading by as many as 20 plus points in some polls. But this morning her supporter Ed Rendell said if she wins by five, six, or seven points it will be a big victory. So, what is the media expectation? 20 points? 10 points? Single digits? Seems like people are forgetting that she needs to win BIG if she wants to close the gap in Pledged Delegates and Popular Vote. A single digit victory will not prove anything.

First thoughts: The campaign gap

E parker, Balto, MD — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 13:54:23 GMT

And now Billary and ilk are proclaiming that Obama wants her to leave the race (CBS News). Certainly, I would prefer that so Obama and McCain can get down to brass tacks. But as Obama said, Billary can do whatever she wants to do. Sitting on the floor and kicking her heels isn't helping this desperate woman win anything but the screendoor hitting her in the backside.

First thoughts: The campaign gap

Mark Thieme — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 14:02:11 GMT

From the rumor mill: apparently, van reuter has been promised HHS if he can be released from the medium security facility where he has been undergoing treatment for "grandisosity issues."

This is a real possibility provided his willingness to wear a bracelet that neutralizes all internet activity on his part and his agreement to stay on his meds.

Part of the rumor has it that one glitch in the great escape is that the Rasmussen people are lobbying aggressively against his release (for obvious reasons).

Of course, Hillary will win in a landslide, so there is no problem, right van?

First thoughts: The campaign gap

RENEA,PLYMOUTH,MI — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 14:07:11 GMT

THE CLINTONS EXPECTED TO HAVE THE NOMINATION WRAPPED UP BY FEB 5TH.THEY DID NOT PLAN FOR ANY VOTERS VOICES TO BE HEARD AFTER THAT DAY.

First thoughts: The campaign gap

Pat Huntington NY — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 14:07:49 GMT

First thoughts: The campaign gap

Pat Huntington NY — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 14:10:02 GMT

Having a post-Korean ware presence in S. Korea has not resulted in US troop deaths. Having a constant presence in Iraq does result in countless US troop deaths because our presence is a destabilizing factor itself. In S Korea, its the opposite. In fact, its time we did pull out of S Korea and let them rise or fall on their own should the north decide to attack.

First thoughts: The campaign gap

Pat Huntington NY — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 14:11:33 GMT

As much as I am a Gore fan, he need not assume a place on the ticket. Gore, don't waste your time. If president or vice president, you will be distracted from the good work you are currently doing trying to wake up the idiots of this world to the global warming threat.

First thoughts: The campaign gap

Lisa, New Britain, CT CT for Obama — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 14:11:37 GMT

I suspect that most of the Obama supporters have no issue with Clinton staying in the race (remember HE was the candidate that always planned to be in the races after Super Tuesday (Feb. 5th) and he is the candidate that has had the 50 state strategy and he is the candidate that tends to gain in strength as people get to know him). I think calls for Hillary to get out were based on her kitchen sink, knee-capping, I need to win at all costs kind of campaigning. Nobody wanted to see more of that.

Its rich that Clinton talks about Obama disenfranchising voters. Talk about revisionist history. Who planned for the race to be over Feb. 5th (Clinton). Who put down voters in every state she didn't win (Clinton). Who talked widely about superdelegates overturning pledged delegates and popular vote (Clinton). Who's advisor had a heavy hand in the original FL and Mich. DNC decision (Ickes in Clinton's campaign). Who didn't care about the voters in FL and Mich. until she needed them (Clinton). Who says that small, red, caucus states don't matter (Clinton). Who has very little money to campaign in future states (Clinton) and who always planned and subsequently has the cash to continue (that would be Obama). How about some fairness in covering this aspect of the story...

Continue on Clinton, the longer you campaign the highter your negatives tend to go. But you staying in doesn't bother me. I don't need to listen to you anymore (I voted Feb. 5th).

I mean no disrespect to those who still have to vote. I would want to vote at this point and can understand you want your chance too.

Obama for President 08

First thoughts: The campaign gap

John Doe — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 14:11:38 GMT

YOu Obama supporters realy get me. You can't stand the thought that Sen. Clinton still has a chance at winning this.
You want to cry foul and whine about her not getting out NOW.
I think Obama should withdraw. he is unelectable, he will lose in Nov. to McCain, becaue of...

Obama's friend shady Rezco

Obama's racist Pastor who hates whites, Jewish people, Italians, and anuone who isn't black.

Obama's racist new PASTOR WHO WAS HAND PICKED BY WRIGHT.

Obama's racist church where he continues to attend.

Obama lying to the American people about Nafta.

Obama lying to American people about hearing his pastor's racist and hatefilled comments.

OBama lying about his Father

Obama lying about Selma

Obama lying about those senate papers he said he didn't sign.

and another biggy......Obama's wife who is ashamed to be American and thinks America is mean.

By the way, where is Michelle Obama? Nobody can controll her, she can't controll her mouth, what a joke as a First Lady she would be.

First thoughts: The campaign gap

BL, Cincinnati OH — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 14:12:11 GMT

IT SHOW THAT THIS COUNTRY IN LEAD BY STUPID PEOPLE WHO FOCUS ON THE MOST STUPID, RIDICULOUS AND INSANE ISSUE.
JAY Chicago il (Sent Tuesday, April 01, 2008 9:44 AM)

I always get a kick out of the posts by people like you. People, that have posts full of misspellings, typos, and grammatical errors, calling everyone else "stupid". I count at least 40 errors in your short post, yet we are the "stupid" ones. Haha!

First thoughts: The campaign gap

Amy Andersen, Eden Prairie, MN — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 14:12:12 GMT

“They know the legend of the comment has gotten out of hand (much like Al Gore inventing the internet), and they are trying VERY hard to put the toothpaste back into the tube.”

For five years, the republicans have spent their time trying to get the toothpaste of Iraq back into the tube, instead of concentrating on brushing the teeth of Al Qaeda or curing our decaying economy. McCain promises nothing more than the same candy that caused the decay in the first place. The probable result is that republicans are likely to suffer a root canal at the hands of the democrats in November. Yes we can.

Obama/Webb 08

First thoughts: The campaign gap

Alan, NJ — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 14:12:43 GMT

I love all this talk about stealing the election from BO. How about Tx? HRC wins the vote of the people but loses the delegate count because of activists. How is that any form of democracy? But we have to live with it. The delegates at the convention can vote any way they choose. If they choose one candidate over another for any reason them the rules. Get over it.

First thoughts: The campaign gap

rita forte — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 14:13:31 GMT

Speaking of "fortunate relationships", does McCain happen to mention his first wife, the one who waited for him when he was a POW, the one on whom he later cheated in order to woo and marry rich Cindy, who just happened to have the money to finance his political career?

No? Certainly seem like a couple of "fortunate relationships" to me.

First thoughts: The campaign gap

April Fools!!!! — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 14:13:32 GMT

It has been quite a while since my last post. I've been campaigning for Hillary and was too busy to post on this site. But, now that I am supporting Obama, I've been fired from the Hillary campaign and have plenty of free time.

Regards,
Van Reuter

First thoughts: The campaign gap

John Doe — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 14:14:01 GMT

YOu Obama supporters realy get me. You can't stand the thought that Sen. Clinton still has a chance at winning this.
You want to cry foul and whine about her not getting out NOW.
I think Obama should withdraw. he is unelectable, he will lose in Nov. to McCain, becaue of...

Obama's friend shady Rezco

Obama's racist Pastor who hates whites, Jewish people, Italians, and anuone who isn't black.

Obama's racist new PASTOR WHO WAS HAND PICKED BY WRIGHT.

Obama's racist church where he continues to attend.

Farakkhan

Terrorist William Ayers

Obama lying to the American people about Nafta.

Obama lying to American people about hearing his pastor's racist and hatefilled comments.

OBama lying about his Father

Obama lying about Selma

and another biggy......Obama's wife who is ashamed to be American and thinks America is mean.

By the way, where is Michelle Obama? Nobody can controll her, she can't controll her mouth, what a joke as a First Lady she would be.

At least Sen. Clinton loves her country and is proud of American.

First thoughts: The campaign gap

Pat, Boston, MA — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 14:14:10 GMT

I do not want anyone on this year's ticket who caved in to Busy & Cheney. I don't care how much experience they have. It has been a detriment.

Experience is over-rated in DC these days. The Bush Administration was and is full of experienced people. Look where that's gotten us.

I want brains and I want guts.

First thoughts: The campaign gap

Alan, NJ — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 14:14:38 GMT

As to the question of why we are in germany, Japan and South Korea for decades...I guess the cold war was something that happened to other people.

First thoughts: The campaign gap

booker, lansing, michigan — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 14:16:08 GMT

John kerry everyday would counter Bush on the campaign trail.People finally ignored him because they knew what he would do. "I don't want them punished with a baby" says o'bama. For his daughters a baby becomes a punishment.....

First thoughts: The campaign gap

Class Warrior, D.C. — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 14:22:08 GMT

Great! So we don't fight in Iraq 100 years (I did the math---at 4,000 dead every five years, that'd come to 80,000 dead American kids), we'd just be baby-sit the useless Iraqis the way we babysit the useless Koreans forever, knowing that the day after we left either one, they'd be overrun, because they've become so dependent on the U.S. to defend and die for their freedom for them. At God knows how many trillions of your hard-earned money and mine, that sounds like a GREAT solution!! Why help Americans keep their homes when we can babysit people too lazy and stupid to fight for themselves?!?

First thoughts: The campaign gap

booker, lansing, michigan — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 14:22:54 GMT

Al sadr in Iraq......testing the government and the USA....It seems like they put the new death count around 1500.....and most of them were his men.....suddenly he tells them to get off the street....ouch....ouch.....Once he realize things were turning aginst him.......suddenly he becomes peaceful.......How does the USA tolerate this?My men won't give up their weapons until the Americans Leave.....Hey, Mr al sadr.......if the americans leave, who's going to make you give up your weapons......Answer. no one.....

Al sadr is a good excuse for the Americans to stay. They can always say.....Civil war will break out....if they leave......

First thoughts: The campaign gap

Freeman, Dallas, TX — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 14:23:32 GMT

Gore/Clinton is April Fool's Joke.

Enjoy!!!!!

First thoughts: The campaign gap

jerry/corpus christi texas — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 14:24:02 GMT

Posters who constantly promote an OBAMA/WEBB 2008 ticket must be republicans trying to sabotage the democrats, because that would be the most inexperienced ticket in US history! Obama US Sen. for 4 years, Webb US Seb. for only 2 years and zero prior gov't experience.
Pat Huntington NY (Sent Tuesday, April 01, 2008 10:07 AM)

And not only that.....
Obama has a racist Pastor....
Webb writes soft porn books......

What a team!

First thoughts: The campaign gap

JohnnyU, WA State — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 14:24:11 GMT

Mark Thieme: I can tell by your "April Fool's" comments about van that you actually admire him deeply and give great weight to his comments. How do you rationalize Hillary's lie about Bosnia? Just asking.

First thoughts: The campaign gap

Diane from Illinois — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 14:24:52 GMT

Why would Al Gore consider a run with Hillary when he distanced himself from Bill when he ran before? He distanced himself because of the scandals and, to my knowledge, THOSE haven't stopped. He might want to wait until we get Hillary's tax returns (which, of course, she'll have to have an extension on before she can release them)or Bill's donor list before he jumps into the swamp with the Clinton's again.

First thoughts: The campaign gap

Molly — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 14:30:40 GMT

GO HILLARY !!!!
Obama will not win with his radical, anti-American friends and mentors. We are electing the President of the UNITED States!

First thoughts: The campaign gap

jesse St.Paul Minnesota — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 14:31:22 GMT

The Clintons ,Can"t raise enough money to pay there bills,they seem to be begging all the time for more money.Has anyone heard of Obama begging for money.Not paying her employees health insurance,and she tells us she has a plan to fix health care,maybe not paying is the new plan!The press would have a field day if it was Obama that had not payed for his employees.Why does billy go in first,he's like a bad back-up band,one you can't listen to very long.

First thoughts: The campaign gap

Lilly, Las Vegas, NV — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 14:32:25 GMT

It is hard for me to determine who exactly is running for President -- is it Hillary or Bill Clinton???? And why does a so-called feminist have her husband out there campaigning like he's the candidate? And what exactly would be Bill's role in another Clinton term. It boggles my mind that these issues are NOT being addressed.

First thoughts: The campaign gap

C A, Tuscaloosa, AL — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 14:34:19 GMT

Sara Winthrop:

Sara:

The Clinton camp keeps lowering the expectation bar as the campaign moves forward and the press, voters and to some degree the Dem party has allowed the Clinton's to control this bar. First it was Hillary needed to win big during Super Turesday. Then she needed to take both Texas and Ohio with decent margins (we know she lost Texas). Then it was to win PA by a big margin 15 - 20 points. Now they are saying any kind of win in PA whether double digits or single digits will give her momentum. The fact is it does not matter how big a win Hillary may get in PA, whether by single digits or double digits (if she does win). Obama will still do well enough to gain a fairly equal number of delegates out of PA even if Hillary does win because the larger number of delegates will come out of those areas in PA where Obama will do well. Obama will win North Carolina that follows, perhaps by a big double digit margin and if anything they will split in Indiana. After PA, North Carolina and Indiana look for Obama to have made some additional pledged delegate gains on Hillary (as well as some additional superdelegates). So let the people vote in PA but PA is mote when it comes to deciding this race. To convince the superdelegates to overturn a pledged delegate lead by Obama after the primaries (which most likely would not happen) Hillary would have to win outright all the remaining primaries beginning with PA, including North Carolina, Indiana, Oregon, West Virginia, etc. It's not going to happen. So give the folks in PA their vote, finish up with the North Carolina and Indiana vote and then it is time for Hillary to concede. The voters in the states that would follow would not be disenfranchised as the primaries would still be conducted, but they would be conducted similar to those still being held now for the Republicans even though McCain has been proclaimed the nominee. Plus those folks in the remaining states will still have their votes in the November election so they would not be disenfranchised.

First thoughts: The campaign gap

booker...lansing, mich — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 14:34:30 GMT

Al Gore clearly is not interested in the USA presidency.

The presidency is like a fish bowl. You can never really get anything done....properly. You have to deal with two political forces.....one always negative.......Why does o'bama want to be president? he has never unified anyone.......Al Gore knows it'sa rarely possible....O'bama has to find out what failure really is...

Once he looses this November, Obama won't be back for more.......He looses every Southern state just like John Kerry......He looses every Western State....Just like John kerry.....and all his millions a

....after the democratic party nomination.....His small donor base...will be tapped out........It will take him years to pay his campaign bills........because he will think......the best way is to not take government limited money,,,,,,,,,

First thoughts: The campaign gap

Steve Turner Cedar Falls Iowa — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 14:36:25 GMT

If McCain thinks Iraq will passively allow an American Military 'Peacetime Commitment' Force to remain in their country for a hundred years...well, he's delusional. This whole mess, according to most Islamic sources, started when the US put troops into Saudi Arabia, temporarily and then permanently, after the first Iraq War. That was unthinkable to many, then, remaining so today, and will be into the future, however long that is. All his rhetoric is aimed at the American People, not the Iraqis. The Iraqis just listen to it and wonder whose country they are living in. McCain is backing an Unreality, which must mean it's still about BIG OIL. Just an Independent Observation.

First thoughts: The campaign gap

BL, Cincinnati OH — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 14:36:51 GMT

Just amazes me how many people read but don't take it all in. Otherwise they'd have noticed this little line on Clinton/Gore:

"It's a stunning development that's completely believable on a day like this, April 1."

First thoughts: The campaign gap

Tim, Mobile — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 14:39:06 GMT

Amy Anderson posted, "For five years, the republicans have spent their time trying to get the toothpaste of Iraq back into the tube, instead of concentrating on brushing the teeth of Al Qaeda or curing our decaying economy."

Five years? I think your math is a little off seeing as how Democrats have had the majority in the Senate AND the House since 2006, and CONGRESS is responsible for both the economy AND funding wars. Democrats promised immediate change ... and here we are.

Why is it democrats never accept responsibility for their own party's impotence? Why is it always someone else's fault?

Apparently, no you can't.

First thoughts: The campaign gap

Sierra, SF — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 14:39:39 GMT

Amanda, Missoula, Montana:'...Oh God, no please. Gore would be insane to do that, he would be much better off just running himself,...'

Amanda, it's April Fool's
I don't really care for Gore, but I think he's smarter than that
Besides, if he wanted to be VP, why not throw his support to Obama ?
THAT would be less controversial and more likely to succeed

Happy April fool's Day....

PS
THAT rumor probably came from the Clinton camp
Obama will be the nominee

First thoughts: The campaign gap

Lisa, New Britain, CT CT for Obama — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 14:39:43 GMT

I don't believe that Obama supporters universally wanted Clinton to get out. What we wanted is decent campaigning on issues. Not kissing up to McCain, not kitchen sink, not Tonya Harding knee-capping, not misstatements. That was the point.

Let's talk disenfranchisement, shall we...

Ask yourself, which candidate

--expected the race to be over Super Tuesday--Feb. 5th (Clinton)
--continually stated that voters in certain states (e.g., red states, caucus states, non-big states, etc.) didn't matter (Clinton)
--didn't have money to compete this late in the game (Clinton)
--had an advisor who was active in the original DNC decision taking the votes away in FL and Mich. (Harold Ickes for Clinton)
--didn't care about the voters in Mich. and FL until she needed them (Clinton).

Which candidate had a fifty state strategy to begin with and which candidate planned HIS campaign to have money to compete throughout June and beyond (that would be Obama).

Which candidate gains in strength the longer he campaigns (Obama) and which candidate has negatives that shoot higher and highter the longer the campaign (Clinton).

So, are we really so sure that the Clinton spin machine (that Obama is disenfranchising voters) is accurate...not so much.

At this point if you believe anything coming out of Team Clinton, well Adam in Brooklyn has a bridge to sell you.

First thoughts: The campaign gap

Bird, Clearwater — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 14:41:00 GMT

If it's Billery, is it Obamelle??? Quit with the cutsie names. You sound like reporters for The Star or National Enquirer. It is the total lack of respect shown for the Clintons by Obama supporters that is causing Hillary supporters to dig in their heels. I am appalled by some of the things I read. Respect her for being a senator, a former first lady, a mother , a woman, I don't care why. You are making her supporters stronger with the hate you are spewing!!! I don't care who you support, you are denigrating your candidate!!

First thoughts: The campaign gap

jerry/corpus christi texas — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 14:41:34 GMT

Bill is flying all over the country for his wife. Considering that it takes a lot of money to go here and there for an ex-president, one has to wonder if the taxpayers or the campaign is paying for all of this. If the Clinton's are so cash poor like they claim, it would be wise just to stay in the PA.

Or is this another trick by The Clinton's to raise more cash and seperate it from the poor Americans they claim they are representing?

First thoughts: The campaign gap

Mark Thieme — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 14:42:34 GMT

Johnny U: Bingo!

True, I do have a deep love and respect for van reuter. Like most of us here, I miss him terribly.
What a political genius!

Rationalize? I came under sniper fire myself only recently on the beach in Cancun.

Or was that Puerta Vallarta?

Or was that snowballs in hell?

Whatever.

First thoughts: The campaign gap

Tina, NY — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 14:42:40 GMT

I don't think you can compare Iraq to Korea or even Vietnam. I don't see how we can stay in Iraq without losing soldiers. Korea was more of a boundary thing with essentially the U.S. helping South Korea push back against the North and the boundary has remained. Iraq is not the same thing, there is no boundary, there is no army, there are suicide bombers and fighting between different factions. I don't see how Iraq will ever be stabilized and how we can stay there without fueling more insurgents who will see it as occupation. 100 years of fighting or staying, you can't compare this to Korea and if that is what McCain believes that he obviouisly does not understand the war in Iraq at all.

First thoughts: The campaign gap

Steve A Jonesboro IN — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 14:43:05 GMT

"Stop playing crude politics with such an important issue"???? Mccain and his staff need to look in a mirror!! And I am NOT "his friend", and he can stop playing the "hero" crap. He can also get off the torture issue, since he voted for it as a lacky of the current administration!

First thoughts: The campaign gap

Sierra, SF — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 14:45:04 GMT

Pat, Boston, MA: '...Washington, DC—Senator Jim Webb (D-VA) said today that the best way to spur job creation and economic growth is to prioritize investment in infrastructure projects....'
'...Senator Webb also advocated the extension and expansion of unemployment insurance benefits, heating assistance for low income households, immediate rebates that target low- and moderate-wage earners, federal assistance to the states to help finance Medicaid, and the extension of the research and development tax credit for businesses....'

Gee, Pat this sounds GOOD !
I really don't know much about Webb, but this is a great set of ideas
It would be a shame to lose a red/purple state Senator but it might help us win Virginia !!

Obama/Webb 2008.
Why not ?

Obama '08
Integrity counts
Character counts
Honesty counts

First thoughts: The campaign gap

Sierra, SF — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 14:47:13 GMT

I saw a viedo of Bill Maher on HuffPost this weekend

He said Hillary would leave her church if the minister said bad things about America

But if the minister got 'serviced' by Monica Lewinsky, she'd stay

;-D

First thoughts: The campaign gap

C A, Tuscaloosa, AL — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 14:48:22 GMT

I want brains and I want guts. Pat, Boston, MA (Sent Tuesday, April 01, 2008 10:14 AM):

As do I Pat. Along with calm and well-balanced judgement. Something we have seen from Obama throughout this campaign and especially when challenged with those hot issues that could have derailed his campaign. We have seen the very opposite from Hillary. Depending on the issue or the challenege we have seen a failure to maintain a calm and intelligent reserve. She has reacted more often with behavior that is ripe with mood swings and that have included out and out anger, tearful pleas, errors on statements or claims that she has made, desparation, unreasonable goals and objectives, unrealistic bars of expectation, etc. There is a certain tendancy for Hillary to exhibit an unbalanced set of characterestics and behaviors unlike Obama who maintains a steady, calm and confident approach to issues no matter how difficult.

First thoughts: The campaign gap

Sierra, SF — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 14:53:14 GMT

gab:'...Why would we want to keep troops inany couontry for decades? Why do we still have troops in Germany 60 years after WWII? Dow e think the NAZI will raise up again and assume leadership of the country? Unlikely....'

The troops were protecting against a possible Russian invasion
This was a reasonable policy
The German people supported having American troops stationed there and there were never attacks against American troops (I was one)

In Iraq, we're invaders and occupiers
We're also infidels and unwelcome by significant portions of the population

'...I agree with Ron Paul on this one, why have permanent American troops all over the world?...'

I agree with Ron Paul, too !!
He was the only candidate questioning the stationing of American troops all over the world
What do American citizens get from this, other than the bill ?
Time to end the 'American Empire'
Why do we have troops in Africa ? Latin America ?

Ron Paul was right about this

First thoughts: The campaign gap

Independent Voter, FL — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 14:54:28 GMT

Chuck, NY

I agree with your comment entirely. I used to like Tucker Carlson when he had his own show. He tried to be neutral now he definitely is working for the GOP.

As a Floridian, I cast a ballot in the Florida primary for our Property Tax Reform-Amendment 1. I did not vote for a presidential nominee. I had not been living under a rock I knew FL and MI had been disenfranchised. And all the candidates had signed the agreement.

Now of course Hillary wants to change the rules. If she cannot be trusted to live up to the agreement that she signed how can she be a President we could trust

First thoughts: The campaign gap

Carol, Long Valley NJ — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 15:01:22 GMT

It's April Fools Day folks -- take the Clinton/Gore silly story -- you've been 'fooled'.

First thoughts: The campaign gap

Brian — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 15:01:56 GMT

The idea that there is a pro-Clinton media bias (as suggested by some in this thread) is quite funny. I wonder if Obama supporters even belive what they are saying sometimes.

First thoughts: The campaign gap

Jesse, Fallon NV — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 15:02:36 GMT

Pat, Huntington, NY-

You moron. Senator Webb was Secretary of the Navy during the Reagan administration.

First thoughts: The campaign gap

Alan, NJ — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 15:03:03 GMT

The current question on Iraq, rather than I was against it in 2002 (so was I...does that mean I'm qualified to be President?), is "What are the acceptable consequences of a pullout?" BO does address this in the quote "As careful getting out as we were reckless getting in". Unlike the rhetoric of Bush regarding democracy everywhere, stability would seem to be the key here. Unfortunately, that seems to indicate a much more gradual withdrawal than is currently being proposed. However, lets not forget that BO has proposed that troops be sent to Afghanistan. My question is how long are we going to be in Afghanistan?

First thoughts: The campaign gap

Dan, USA — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 15:03:28 GMT

Al gore needs to concentrate on waking up the idioits about the global warming threat? Who are you kidding, the evidence that is coming out shows the planet is getting cooler and the warmest years were way in the past, not recently. BTW a British court ruled most of Al's movie is conviently FALSE!

First thoughts: The campaign gap

Sierra, SF — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 15:04:22 GMT

Mark Thieme: '...From the rumor mill: apparently, van reuter has been promised HHS if he can be released from the medium security facility where he has been undergoing treatment for "grandisosity issues."...'

Mark, the Clinton campaign is running on fumes
They've stopped apying their apparatchiks
van is in a homeless shelter, too embarrassed to show his face around here.

Pat Huntington NY : '...Posters who constantly promote an OBAMA/WEBB 2008 ticket must be republicans trying to sabotage the democrats, because that would be the most inexperienced ticket in US history!...'

Webb had executive experience in the Reagan Admin
He was in the Pentagon

'Experience' led McCain and Hillary to vote for the Iraq WAR
'Experience' led McCain and Hillary to vote for war against Iran (Kyl-Lieberman)

I'm not impressed with their 'experience', even at dodging sniper fire in Bosnia or opening up the Macedonian border to refugees

First thoughts: The campaign gap

Nj — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 15:14:01 GMT

Someone is losing ground BIGTIME

Scott Rasmussen
RasmussenReports.com

Pennsylvania: Clinton 47% Obama 42%

First thoughts: The campaign gap

The TRUTH Hurts — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 15:14:24 GMT

The issue isn't, and shouldn't be whether Hillary should drop out or not.
The issue is and should be whether Obama can get 2025 delegates before the convention in Denver.
Or, for that matter, whether or not either of them can get to 2025. Because if neither does, the rules call for a brokered convention.
Which wouldn't be a bad thing, in spite of what First Read, Keith Olberman, and Chris Mathews are telling you.
A brokered convention is democracy in action. It puts both candidates in the position of actually being accountable to the delegates who support them and the people those delegates represent.
It would put the Democratic Party and its' convention in the limelight and it would provide magnificent political theater to millions watching on TV. Such an event could re-establish The Democratic Party's connection with the "man in the street" and what would or could be bad about that?
Unless of course someone decided to turn it into a slick talking and rhetorical bickering match, or unless one group decides to riot if it doesn't get its' own way.
The TRUTH is that a brokered convention would be the best thing in the world for the voters because it would mean that the eventual nominee would have to live up to his or her promises after the election. They would be put under a microscope by the delegates and the voters with regard to their positions on the issues. There would be no ambiguity, no misunderstandings about where they stand and what they would do if elected.
This is the reason why the Obama campaign doesn't want to "go down that road." It wants as much "wiggle room" as possible because he isn't very clear on the issues. He promises change and hope, and offers slogans like yes we can.
But he never addresses the issues directly and a brokered convention would expose his weaknesses in that regard.
Then too, there is the Rezko thing and that could come into play between now and August. That is another reason why Obama and his proxies want Hillary out of the race. Lack of competition tends to take the heat off of potential scandal. With Hillary out of the race, with no brokered convention, the powers that be within the Democratic Party would tend not to look into, or ask questions about Obama's relationship with Rezko and that is something that could cost them later on.
If the TRUTH be known, a brokered convention is exactly what the Democratic Party needs. Any suggestion to the contrary is pure poppycock.

First thoughts: The campaign gap

jerry/corpus christi texas — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 15:14:34 GMT

Al Gore needs to be working on his house and making sure that it is as green as President Bush's ranch house in Crawford LOL. Haven't heard much from Gore since the Nobel prize trip. Taking a train while his luggage went in a gas guzzling car LOL. If Gore ran for President, the company that he half owns that collects carbon print money from morons would be so heavily investigated it wouldn't be worth his time.

Al ought to just sit back, keep flapping his gums about global warming and stop eating steaks.

First thoughts: The campaign gap

Valerie Putnam, Plano, Texas — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 15:20:43 GMT

Doesn't Hillary have to run the table, so to speak, in all of the remaining primaries in order to get close to Obama in delegates and popular vote? Doesn't she have to win by something like 20 to 30 points in places like Pennsylvania? Is this really likely? Obama has won by 30 points in quite a few of his states, but has Hillary? Can she hold her current large lead in PA? If not, why not? If Obama can close this lead of Hillary's within a few weeks, isn't it an argument that he could do the same in the fall against McCain?

First thoughts: The campaign gap

tom buchele, portland, oregon — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 15:25:38 GMT

Where are Hillary's tax returns??? Will at least one reporter please press her or her campaign on why she cannot simply release them immediately?? Did she file a return in 2006??? What was her effective tax rate?? Since she cares so much about us middle class folks I'm assuming that she pays federal taxes at the same or a higher rate than do the "common folk", but I'm betting my assumption is wrong and that is why we are not seeing the actual returns.

First thoughts: The campaign gap

demos, salt lake city, utah — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 15:26:06 GMT

Chuck,
You guys are late with the news today.

First thoughts: The campaign gap

Diane from Illinois — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 15:28:12 GMT

BL from Cinncinnati: Looks like you caught me! I totally disregarded the "It's a stunning development that's completely believable on a day like this, April 1" part of the article! Now I feel foolish!

First thoughts: The campaign gap

donna, pgh., pa. — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 15:39:15 GMT

Barack's campaign, while always the dark horse, (pun very much intended), has no problem closing the gap, or the sale. Why? because he is the real deal!

The people know it. We so desperately need change, and he is the one to lead us to it.

Pulling for Obama '08

First thoughts: The campaign gap

Ruthie, GA — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 15:40:26 GMT

Is the new poll out today from RASMUSSEN an April fool's joke? Clinton Lead Shrinking in PA; Clinton 47% Obama 42%.

First thoughts: The campaign gap

balthus, Raleigh, NC — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 15:41:16 GMT

"But I would never challenge him on his patriotism, because I think that he has earned the honor and the respect of the American people on that front.” - Obama

Contrast with: On April 8, 1968, Captain Max Cleland was the Battalion Signal Officer for the 2nd Battalion, 12th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Cavalry Division during the Battle of Khe Sanh in Vietnam.

On April 8, with a month left in his tour, Cleland was ordered to set up a radio relay station on a nearby hill. A helicopter flew him and two soldiers to the treeless top of Hill 471, east of Khe Sanh.

When the helicopter landed, Cleland jumped out, followed by the two soldiers. They ducked beneath the rotors and turned to watch the liftoff. Cleland reached down to pick up the grenade he believed had popped off his flak jacket. The blast slammed him backward, shredding both his legs and one arm. He was 25 years old.

Due to the severity of his injuries, doctors amputated both his legs above the knee and his right forearm.

Cleland ran for and was elected to the United States Senate in 1996.

In 2002, Cleland was defeated in his bid for a second Senate term by Representative Saxby Chambliss. Chambliss ran ads that featured Cleland's likeness on the same screen as Osama bin Laden and Saddam Hussein.

Apparently, Cleland's horrific war service sacrifice didn't earn him "the honor and respect" of the Republican party.

Today, self-styled "patriotic" Republicans are crossing over to vote in Democratic primaries, urged on by a radio host who avoided military service but eagerly mocks many who have served in Iraq.

America, of course, was founded in the belief that elections would be meaningful and fought fairly. Tampering with elections is at the least, a despicable act that our Founding Fathers would have found beneath contempt - and at worst, an act of treason.

Only Republicans would smear a hero like Max Cleland. Only Republicans would deliberately tamper with the fairness of American elections.
Only Republicans are ignorant enough to consider themselves patriot when their actions confirm otherwise.

First thoughts: The campaign gap

balthus, Raleigh, NC — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 15:43:07 GMT

Hey Dan - don't get your panties in a twist. No one is going to take away the keys to that gas-guzzling, pollution-spewing, nature-killing, earth-warming, mobile living room you call a car...at least not yet.

First thoughts: The campaign gap

Pat Huntington NY — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 15:43:38 GMT

First thoughts: The campaign gap

Nicholas: Minnesota — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 15:48:45 GMT

" ...here’s some news that should cheer up weary Democrats."

[I'm sure JB in Charlotte sat silently while in La and watched a succession of corrupt dem and reps pilfer the state coffers...its the way down there
jerry/ corpus christi texas (Sent Monday, March 31, 2008 12:12 PM)]
--Since I see nothing more serious to type than to critique others, since this impossible election season is going to drone on and on and on and on ...like me. Anyway, if you truly are from Corpus Christi, which I do not doubt, would it not be more accurate to type, “[a]nd watched a succession of corrupt dem and reps pilfer the state coffers ...its the way ‘up’ there?” I figure that if I’m going to hold Sen. Clinton to her geographical difficulties, I should others as well. And it matters in the sense that the most striking feature that is jerry, is his location on the below, typed map-link.

http://maps.google.com/maps?f=d&hl=en&geocode=&saddr=corpus+christ,+tx&daddr=new+orleans,+la&sll=29.315141,-93.735352&sspn=6.569014,10.799561&ie=UTF8&ll=29.123373,-93.702393&spn=6.581296,10.799561&z=7

**perhaps this election season is growing weary ...

First thoughts: The campaign gap

John B, Des Moines, IA — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 15:52:11 GMT

Germany, Japan, and South Korea are straw men disguising the real issue. We are in those places not because they are a continuing threat but because they have friendly populations that allow us to establish military bases in strategically important areas. Those who argue for long-term presence in Iraq also have their eyes on bases in a strategically important location but don't want to admit this as it would be politically unpopular. That's for good reason, because Iraq does NOT have a friendly population that would tolerate a permanent base. We will always be under attack while we are there.

First thoughts: The campaign gap

AP from IL — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 15:57:27 GMT

I think the Clinton/Gore thing is an April Fool's joke. Politico has a cute one too about Obama healing someone.

First thoughts: The campaign gap

unborn children against Obama — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 16:00:37 GMT

Lily in Las VEgas, why do you have a problem with Bill campaigning but it's ok for Michelle to campaign? Being a "feminist" doesn't mean you kick your family and friends to the curb. For most, it means being the best you can be, regardless of your gender.

First thoughts: The campaign gap

Lia — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 16:11:08 GMT

Pat, Huntinton, NY

Webb was Secretary of the Navy!!! No prior USG experience?

First thoughts: The campaign gap

Mystery poster — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 16:14:31 GMT

"Bomb bomb Iran," "100 year stay" - the right wing doesn't care what their candidate says - they're lock-step voters who are more interested in keeping the left down than raising the country up. They're the ones who ensure terrorists will be with us for a long, long time.

First thoughts: The campaign gap

Sandra, Baltimore, MD — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 16:17:43 GMT

There most likely is a "smoking gun" in Hillary's (Bill's) tax returns; otherwise, why hasn't she released them and gotten this issue behind her?! I do wish the media, and Obama, would push her on this issue. I, for one, want to know what percentage of her income she paid in taxes and more important, where/from whom she AND Bill GOT their money.

First thoughts: The campaign gap

Mike O'Donnell, Scranton, PA — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 16:21:05 GMT

As a Republican, I'm so inspired to hear all the political bickering and back-stabbing from all of you... emulating your heroes Hillary and Obama. Keep up the good work!

First thoughts: The campaign gap

Sharon, PA — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 16:47:13 GMT

Tom.... Hillary PROMISED that she would turn in her tax returns by April 15th. Now she's saying maybe April 20th, which will give the press and everyone else about 1 or 2 days to look over them before the election in PA. She doesn't want to give anyone too much time to check them out.

Right now, she's more focused on crying about how all the boys want her to pick up her marbles and go home. Every time I've heard her speak over the past few days, she constantly mentions how "Obama's camp wants me to quit," when it's been all over the media that he himself has point blank said she should stay in for as long as she wants. She's even coming up with really stupid metaphors, like; "Imagine if Rocky Balboa (sp?) ran half way up the steps and then decided he's gone far enough?" She sure is going for the sympathy card in a big way.

First thoughts: The campaign gap

Hates the system — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 16:50:29 GMT

massive vote fraud in PA???

"Per NBC/NJ’s Matthew Berger, there have been 101,499 new Democratic applications and 132,688 switches to the Democratic Party in Pennsylvania since January 1"

How many Limbaughcrats in that 130+ thousand???

It's going to be really tough for Obama to beat both the dirty Clintons and the morally bankrupt Republicans now that they've temporarily joined forces

First thoughts: The campaign gap

Michael Korn Princeton, NJ — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 16:52:00 GMT

i propose Obama-Hagel ticket. Hagel a vietnam vet can speak to McCain eye-to-eye regarding our next moves in Iraq. Bringing dem and repub together is our best shot at making the USA better. Clinton's problem is she isn't part of any equation that can bring nation together.

First thoughts: The campaign gap

Cathi — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 16:55:23 GMT

Jerry: And don't forget, it's the tax payers who are paying for secret service to travel all over the place with all 3 Clintons.

Mike O'Donnel: I'm most amused by the fact that Hillary won't shut the hell up about "disenfranchised" voters when she SIGNED AN AGREEMENT last year acknowledging and accepting the fact that FL and MI would not count. If she cared all that much about "disenfranchised" (and you can only be disenfranchised if your being PREVENTED from voting) voters, she would have refused to sign the agreement to begin with. Though she keeps harping on how every vote must count, she totally negates the fact that the Republicans (who are also citizens of this country) were "disenfranchised" once McCain was nominated.

First thoughts: The campaign gap

shirley, san jose, ca — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 17:05:30 GMT

Hillary is not a viable candidate for any office until she releases her 2000 thru 2006 tax returns. The other candidates have released theirs. I suspect she is waiting to release her 'cleaned up' 2007 return in April. This will not suffice, voter's have a right to see her financial history.

First thoughts: The campaign gap

HP Boston — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 17:05:38 GMT

Hillary said APRIL FOOLS! There is no LAW that says she MUST show her tax returns. Oh yes and BITE ME comes to mind. Stop the whining!
Relax fools the joke is on YOU!

First thoughts: The campaign gap

shirley, san jose, ca — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 17:05:48 GMT

First thoughts: The campaign gap

HP Boston — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 17:06:22 GMT

Hillary said APRIL FOOLS! There is no LAW that says she MUST show her tax returns. Oh yes and BITE ME comes to mind. Stop the whining!
Relax fools the joke is on YOU!

First thoughts: The campaign gap

Poster you won't post anymore — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 17:12:31 GMT

"As a Republican, I'm so inspired to hear all the political bickering and back-stabbing from all of you... emulating your heroes Hillary and Obama. Keep up the good work! "

Well, we're real impressed with your lock-step, "screw the country, full-speed ahead to disaster" mentality.

But not favorably impressed.

First thoughts: The campaign gap

Ron, PA — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 17:14:13 GMT

As a republican Mike from Scranton we're all sure you will be joining up to go fight. Now, none of that stuff about how you already served or your brother was in desert storm or any other copouts. Just join up dude and fight fight fight

First thoughts: The campaign gap

Hillaor08 — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 17:21:55 GMT

Hillary needs everu vote. Make sure you get to polls or vote early and take someone with you. I took 4 neighbors and they were thrilled to be able to go vote. Check neighbors ,friends, and family.Visit hillaryclinton.com check out th ehubs see whats going on. really exciting

First thoughts: The campaign gap

Espanola, NM — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 17:22:05 GMT

whether Nancy Polsi and Obama wants it Hillary is going to win. We go to Iraq to help them vote Democratic, perhaps they should come and tell polsi and Obama that people have a right to VOTE. I want to know who the Superdelegates are for especially those like two face Richardson and those that don't have the balls to openly say who their choice is.Lets get it on....

First thoughts: The campaign gap

Espanola, NM — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 17:24:08 GMT

First thoughts: The campaign gap

Class Warrior, D.C. — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 17:25:15 GMT

Those of you who can get it, I would refer to an article in the Washington Post Sunday Opinion page by Zbigniew Brezinski (sp), an Obama supporter who stated that 1.) Bush & the right are probably catastrophizing for nothing in giving us horror tales of post-pullout Iraq, and 2.) gave a long and reasoned plan for getting out gracefully. The rest, of course, would be up to the Iraqis. I myself interpret Al-Maliki's newly-discovered backbone dealing with Al-Sadist's thugs as a sign he's scared to death the Dems might win, pull out his bank account and leave him acutally (gasp!) having to govern. So he's trying desparately to prove to America "you don't have to leave! We'l shoulder a little bit of our war! Really we will!" Whatever happens after we leave---in one year or one hundred, we should never, EVER again fight and die for people (Koreans, Vietnamese or Iraqis) who care less about their freedom and security than we do. That should be the Lesson We FINALLY Larn about Foreign Wars.

First thoughts: The campaign gap

JA-MO — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 17:29:24 GMT

You people who are bashing the Clintons (like they did something to you personally) seem to forget the 8 years under the Clinton Administration were the best we have had in a long, long time. Don't try to make people believe they were not good for you too. You are so full of hate, it will destroy you some day. You are sounding like Obama's preacher. Lighten up!!!!!

First thoughts: The campaign gap

jane-pa — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 17:29:34 GMT

Obama doesnt want his children punished with a baby. Geesh I never thought of my kids as punishment. No gins and no kids?? Must be he doesnt want people to think of him as grampa. How sad.My friends went to see Obama and where really surprised sure didnt see all the whoopy people say is there.Maybe his grampa thought slowed him down hahahahahahHe is trying so hard to get Hillary out. Between him and media the polls dipped. Now will be neat to see results. They think we are not up to th etask of getting best in there. Hillary all the way.And I know some women turned from Rep. to Dem. to vote in first woman pres.Hillary will see that all votes are made. With Obamas ( permission) or not. He is so not one of the guys.

First thoughts: The campaign gap

joe -pa — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 17:34:24 GMT

Sharon,Pa you sure sound scared but dont feel bad so do a lot of others here too.Obama people never could get her on policy or issues so attack personally.Keeps your guy clean we understand.Or maybe you dont know the issues or her side anyway. Take a look you might want to change and join us. Come ahead all are welcome.Hillary works for everyone all the time not just when she needs them and than no time for them.God Bless America.Obama needs a wed. Bible study group day with pastor Meeks another of his great mentors.

First thoughts: The campaign gap

Ken S, Newport News, VA — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 17:49:14 GMT

The NY Times says that today Michelle Obama will appear in Pittsburgh with Teresa Heinz Kerry. I wonder how those women in Ohio who Michelle Obama told to shun the corporate world will think when they see her campaigning with a corporate giant. Just goes to show that the Obama camps says "do what I say, not as I do."