McCain v. Obama debate: Who was the winner Friday night?

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Thursday, October 02, 2008

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By DAN ROSS
Register Online Staff

How do you think John McCain and Barack Obama did Friday night in their first debate?

103 comment(s)

localmama wrote on Sep 27, 2008 10:01 AM:

" And the winner is.....JOHN MCCAIN! Did you hear how many times Obama told McCain he is right. You betcha!

McCain is the more qualified candidate to be President! "

localmama wrote on Sep 27, 2008 11:15 AM:

" I get it, this must be a Liberal newspaper. I am wondering if my last comment will ever get posted? "

bettye wrote on Sep 27, 2008 12:06 PM:

" Obama is just the coolest guy! He is almost too polite.. Yes he agreed with McBush several times ,which shows his willingness to be bipartisen..Now... How many times did he say ..You are WRONG ??? Lets be "fair and balanced "( like Faux News ) I think he won" hands down " "

AThought wrote on Sep 27, 2008 12:15 PM:

" I felt both candidates did well, even though there was a lot of repetition. I felt though, overall, that McCain had a lot of great things to say and he looks like our next President! "

vocal-de-local wrote on Sep 27, 2008 12:15 PM:

" Obama was the winner. He appeared diplomatic and presidential. McCain appeared angry and volatile. One personality brings greater hope of peace to the world. The other wants to continue the same old same practice of diverting resources into the hands of the wealthy and fighting more and more wars. Fighter or peacemaker? I'll take the peacemaker. "

comment wrote on Sep 27, 2008 12:16 PM:

" I thought it was pretty evenly split. Obama told McCain he was right a few times because MCain just emphasized the same points Obama was making. McCain should have been clearly better than Obama on this subject debated and he wasn't.

What was with McCain referencing the bracelet given to him by the mother of a soldier killed in Iraq and he wasn't even wearing it? "

Newview wrote on Sep 27, 2008 12:18 PM:

" I believe that it is unfortunate for us that we can't have our cake and eat it too. Both Presidential candidates are more articulate and on the facts for our concerns than our present President. While I continued to hear a soft chorusing of caution and fear from McCain, there was this tough grittiness that kept surfacing with the young senator that has caught this voters admiration. Yes lets go get Osama, yes lets hold people accountable, yes lets get Main Street repaved, yes lets deal with special interest and soft money! I specifically found interesting Obama discussion of China, for that and his perspective on the present concern for the economic bail out and his view on Pakistan, the young Senator Obama edged past the experienced and schooled Senator McCain. I sensed that McCain had a presentment of some type of agenda that was moving about the fringe of his persona. Very much like the parent advising me not to touch the stove, but yet not clearly explaining that if I touched the stove I would get burned. It is clear to me that Obama is saying if you touch that stove you will get burned, so don't touch it. "

db76 wrote on Sep 27, 2008 12:31 PM:

" If you want our tax dollars to go to Iraq, vote for "100 years in Iraq " McCain. If you want our money to stay in America, vote for Obama. That's what it comes down to. "

B-Side wrote on Sep 27, 2008 12:48 PM:

" The candidate I'll be voting for wasn't invited to the debate.
I'd have to say Obama by a slight margin.
Just because Obama says "you're right" only means that he agrees on a give topic.
If Obama said something McCain agreed with would McCain say "you're wrong"?
Invite some of the other candidates running for president and let's have a real debate. "

abouttime wrote on Sep 27, 2008 1:01 PM:

" One snide bitter old man, stuck in the last century vs. The Future. No contest. Obama is thankfully our next President. "

msdemo wrote on Sep 27, 2008 1:02 PM:

" I watched the body language and Obama looked very self assured, knew his information well and I thought he did very well. He was comfortable with the situation.

As for McCain, he looked nervous with twitching eyes, and a really grim smile from time to time. I felt he was clenching his teeth till they hurt. He never looked at Obama and had the fight or flight look during the whole thing. He was definitely not comfortable

I think I prefer a president who is still able to keep his cool and be comfortable under pressure. "

CIO wrote on Sep 27, 2008 1:18 PM:

" There is a lot to be said about "body language." Eye contact is big or just looking at the person says alot. In the beginning Jim L. kept suggesting that the two look at each other. Obama got the message, but McCain did not. Just something to think about. "

c-groom wrote on Sep 27, 2008 2:36 PM:

" Obama owned the first debate... hope he keeps it up... It wasn't rainin' McCain last night. "

Joe wrote on Sep 27, 2008 2:39 PM:

" Obama must not know much about Afghanistan. There is no reason to be there. Bin Laden is not there, he is in Pakistan. Pakistan will not let US troops across the border to look for him. Since this war broke out in 1998 when Osama Bin Laden declared war on the US many terroist organizations from all over different countries in the middle east have been working together to terrorize Americans and other countries who hurt there cause. That is why we are in Iraq. Bush is brave for going after the terrorist like his father did. President Clinton let things get way out of control by not keeping tabs on them for eight years. McCain did a great job convincing me that he is the man for the job. "

blundc wrote on Sep 27, 2008 2:42 PM:

" I think the both did a good job, but I could not stand McCain's attitude. He never once looked Obama in the eye and often would laugh at Obama or make a really annoying smile. I personally think he is too old to be this arrogant. "

justnana wrote on Sep 27, 2008 2:52 PM:

" db76 - I am so glad to hear that Senator Obama has abandoned his plan to feed the entire continent of Africa and more, so that we can keep our money in our country! I missed that part. "

49er wrote on Sep 27, 2008 3:00 PM:

" THE WINNER CLEARLY IS OBAMA!!!!!! THANK GOD, I DON'T THINK THAT OUR COUNTRY CAN SURVIVE ANOTHER GEORGE BUSH! "

Hear Ye wrote on Sep 27, 2008 3:09 PM:

" Obama did seem more presidential. He looked more confident, acted more confident, spoke of "whens" not "ifs", and held his own in a subject most people didn't think he would. No knockout blows from either side but Obama 1 Mccain 0 "

808 wrote on Sep 27, 2008 3:40 PM:

" McCain won hands down .. "

B-Side wrote on Sep 27, 2008 4:00 PM:

" Where are all the usual suspects today? I'll give them the benefit of the doubt; they must be out enjoying this beautiful weather. As for facial expression and body language, they will both be working on that big time. Like an NFL team studying the game tape, their advisors will be coaching them about smiling, body language and eye contact.
Latest nation polls are leaning towards Obama.
I wish all the candidates were invited to the party. "

Lucylu wrote on Sep 27, 2008 4:00 PM:

" McCain wins hand down..more experience, more professional.

By the way..... for Commet---he was wearing the bracelet- play the tape back- on his right wrist.... he is a proud veteran whom should be leading this country, not a liberal that's a muslum in disguise. "

dellasumbrella wrote on Sep 27, 2008 4:02 PM:

" I was surprised that McCain did as well as he did, given the deflation of his Palin balloon and his own (what I would call) insecurity about facing off such a self-assured and articulate speaker we see in Obama. However, McCain's derisive sneers and snickers whenever Obama made a point didn't serve him, nor did his absolute refusal to look at or directly address Obama. I saw no need to be insulting in the debate, except that it seems to be a primary way Republicans make their points nowadays. So it's no surprise to see Republicans making spam out of Obama's "you're right" comments, which are (1) a genuine acknowledgment of what commonality exists before launching into his own particular views and positions; and (2) a gracious and potentially disarming technique in debate, crisis intervention and negotiation which can open the other to listening and cooperating when that is the goal.
Of course I adhere more to Obama's positions than I do to McCain's. McCain's were clearly stated, but obfuscated by his petty jabs at Obama and by his eagerness to play the "experience" card. Obama's were clear, succinct and rational.
Obama showed that he would represent our country well, and that he understands the complexities of issues and is willing to address them in a manner that is most likely to benefit Americans.
Most interesting for me was how each demonstrated why they either do or do not advocate negotiation in dealing with potential threats or "misbehaving" countries. It's an approach to problem solving that requires skill, and Obama is clearly at ease with it; McCain is clearly not. "

happyday wrote on Sep 27, 2008 4:13 PM:

" It was close to a tie. I thought McCain sounded sincere, and Obama presidential. Either candidate will inherit a mess. "

common sense wrote on Sep 27, 2008 4:21 PM:

" Obama had some good lines. However, when the liberal media guys say "it was a tie, therefore Obama won", you know McCain won it.

McCain got under Obama's skin, to the point that Obama (a couple of times!) had to call on the moderator to move on...Obama couldn't handle McCain. "

Listening wrote on Sep 27, 2008 4:26 PM:

" I was carefully watching facial and eye expressions of both candidates. Obama had a shifty look at times and appeared dismayed at some of McCain's comments. Obama is a better speaker, of course, but he didn't seem to have any depth to his comments. I believe McCain prevailed because in any debate people would expect Obama's great oratory skills to prevail - they did not. "

dellasumbrella wrote on Sep 27, 2008 4:38 PM:

" Common sense -- What about when Frank Luntz (Republican wordsmith & spinmeister) reports that his focus group clearly saw Obama as the winner?

McCain got under Obama's skin? Well I should hope so, with his smirks and insults. Glad to see Obama's human. As I recall, the only time he asked the moderator to move on was when the moderator had expressed a need to move on, yet McCain was blasting Obama with misrepresentations and not allowing Obama to respond. What's that, the "I can dominate by continually talking so you can't get a word in edgewise" approach to winning a debate? "

Grape Guy wrote on Sep 27, 2008 4:57 PM:

" Obama wants to increase business tax. Does he know what this is going to do?
1) Businesses will raise their prices to offset the tax increase and consumers will be paying more for goods and services.
2) You will hear a "giant suckin' sound" of jobs going abroad to get cheaper labor and get more favorable tax breaks in countries with lower taxes.
The answer is cutting government spending and limiting DNA research on the Mississippi Wood Moth "

notpc wrote on Sep 27, 2008 5:00 PM:

" Its amazing to me that people compare McCain to Bush. He is one of the few politicians to put our country first and cross the aisle in order to accomplish bi-partisan agreements. How refreshing. I'm sorry but Obama to ultra left. "

Grape Guy wrote on Sep 27, 2008 5:02 PM:

" one more thing... People forget, the reason we invaded Iraq was because Sadam would not let weapons inspectors into his country to see if he was hiding anything. He persisted and persisted. We had no choice but to go in there and make sure he had none. The Police department would do the same if you would not let them search your car. "

misfit wrote on Sep 27, 2008 5:25 PM:

" It's a fact, that CONServatives are more fear based. Like...pictures of spiders push their buttons more than it does for Libs. This is why McCain appeals to these types. He pushes the fear button and everyone startles. He is cantankerous and demeaning and this is not the type of behavior that should be expected of any leader.
Obama is cool. I think too cool sometimes because I would like him to pop off McCains little pea head sometimes. He doesn't go in for the kill as he could have on several occasions. Like the lies McCain spewed near the end about loving veterans, having their backs, taking care of them, etc. These were bold faced lies and he does it so effortless without blinking. That is scary. Scary, not because he says what he says but, because he actually believes his lies. He has abandoned the vets and their needs and they give him a D rating because of it! It's fact!
Bottom line, say what you want about Obama...but Palin as next in line shows the horrible judgment of McCain and he proved it with his very first, important decision as it relates to the presidency. The rest of the world has caught on...what's wrong with the rest of you. "

Paddy wrote on Sep 27, 2008 5:28 PM:

" Obama and the Obamanation were exposed for the inexperienced frauds that they are. Obama did a lot of whining last night. "

Hear Ye wrote on Sep 27, 2008 5:41 PM:

" Paddy-

Come back to reality. We get that you don't like Obama but not even the wackiest of the far right seemed to agree with your take last night. "

Joe wrote on Sep 27, 2008 5:45 PM:

" Grape guy is right. In the early 1990's Saddam Hussein signed a cease fire agreement saying that the US could have weapons inspectors let into the country at anytime to search for weapons. Clinton never enforced these inspections. The only choice for Bush was to invade considering they would not willingly let us in. "

cameltoedoc wrote on Sep 27, 2008 5:49 PM:

" All I know is that if either one becomes our president of the united states, WE lose and the bankers win....again. "

Dwayne wrote on Sep 27, 2008 6:12 PM:

" Gov. Matt Blunt (Missouri) today issued the following statement on news reports that have exposed plans by U.S. Senator Barack Obama to use Missouri law enforcement to threaten and intimidate his critics.

“St. Louis County Circuit Attorney Bob McCulloch, St. Louis City Circuit Attorney Jennifer Joyce, Jefferson County Sheriff Glenn Boyer, and Obama and the leader of his Missouri campaign Senator Claire McCaskill have attached the stench of police state tactics to the Obama-Biden campaign.

“What Senator Obama and his helpers are doing is scandalous beyond words, the party that claims to be the party of Thomas Jefferson is abusing the justice system and offices of public trust to silence political criticism with threats of prosecution and criminal punishment.

“This abuse of the law for intimidation insults the most sacred principles and ideals of Jefferson. I can think of nothing more offensive to Jefferson’s thinking than using the power of the state to deprive Americans of their civil rights. The only conceivable purpose of Messrs. McCulloch, Obama and the others is to frighten people away from expressing themselves, to chill free and open debate, to suppress support and donations to conservative organizations targeted by this anti-civil rights, to strangle criticism of Mr. Obama, to suppress ads about his support of higher taxes, and to choke out criticism on television, radio, the Internet, blogs, e-mail and daily conversation about the election.

“Barack Obama needs to grow up. Leftist blogs and others in the press constantly say false things about me and my family. Usually, we ignore false and scurrilous accusations because the purveyors have no credibility. When necessary, we refute them. Enlisting Missouri law enforcement to intimidate people and kill free debate is reminiscent of the Sedition Acts - not a free society.” "

Dwayne wrote on Sep 27, 2008 6:14 PM:

" Abuse of law enforcement for political purposes is only a sample of what an Obama administration would be like....

Obama is a loser... Big time...... "

msdemo wrote on Sep 27, 2008 6:22 PM:

" regarding business taxes, I do not think he is talking about the small business, he is talking about the giants. I know for a fact that Mobil Oil paid no state tax in California. Not sure what is happening with Exxon but it is probably the same.
Those are the loopholes that need to be plugged.

And even though I am a stock holder and enjoy the dividends I still think that is a major problem to be solved.

BTY - Arnold S. said yesterday that either candidate would be better than the current administration. "

Rocketman wrote on Sep 27, 2008 6:48 PM:

" NOT EVEN CLOSE. McCain was so superior in experience and knowledge, it was like a teacher debating a first grader. No time for Obama do develop experience as the President. We CANNOT afford the training!! "

Dwayne wrote on Sep 27, 2008 6:57 PM:

" It's a fact, that liberals are more fear based. Like...pictures of spiders push their buttons more than it does for Cons. This is why Obama appeals to these types. He pushes the fear button and everyone startles. He is cantankerous and demeaning and this is not the type of behavior that should be expected of any leader.
McCain is cool. I think too cool sometimes because I would like him to pop off Obama's little pea head sometimes. He doesn't go in for the kill as he could have on several occasions. Like the lies Obama spewed near the end about his father being from Kenya, raising goats, taking care of them, etc. These were bold faced lies and he does it so effortless without blinking. That is scary. Scary, not because he says what he says but, because he actually believes his lies. He has abandoned common sense because he has an agenda that does not include this country. It's fact!
Bottom line, say what you want about McCain...but Biden as next in line shows the horrible judgment of Obama and he proved it with his very first, important decision as it relates to the presidency.

Every radical Muslim on the planet supports Obama, including Chavez...what's wrong with the rest of you....???...!!! "

Dwayne wrote on Sep 27, 2008 6:59 PM:

" bettye wrote on Sep 27, 2008 12:06 PM:
" Obama is just the coolest guy!...."

So was the serpent in the garden of Eden..... "

a teacher wrote on Sep 27, 2008 7:08 PM:

" Personally, I thought it was a draw, with slight points to McCain. The reason I give some to McCain is that his contempt for Obama is palpable. He kept on talking over Obama, attacking him, not even looking at him. Frankly, I thought McCain behaved rather badly, but I think he was effective. Obama allowed him to rough him up without that much response.

Substantively, I was disappointed. Both candidates ducked the important question of what are we going to do about our current financial crisis and how the proposed bailout will effect their proposals for their administration. Most of McCain's answers were bumper stickers and slogans. Obama never adequately defended his positions, even though I think most of them are defensible even if you don't agree with them.

I get the impression that Obama expected a more civil debate and was perhaps surprised by McCain's ferocity. When Obama does get going, like when he jumped on McCain's support of the Iraq war, he was very effective, but he never pressed it home. McCain did.

I think the next time they meet, Obama will be much more aggressive. "

Annabella wrote on Sep 27, 2008 7:29 PM:

" McCain is out of touch with time, place and person. He mentioned the Republican guards...the correct name is the Revolutionary Guards. The Republican guards were Saddams troups during the Iraq invasion of Kuwait in 1991. Just one of the many, many flubs he's made and quite typical of an age related condition. "

Raven wrote on Sep 27, 2008 7:59 PM:

" grape guy......did you forget that the UN inspectors asked for a couple more weeks to completed the inspections that were already underway before the invasion and were denied that time by Bush and company....haste makes for a lot of waste...

and the police analogy doesn't work because unless I have been arrested or there is probably cause, i can tell the police no when they ask to search my car

two of the overnight polls...CNN and CBS news...of undecided voters came up with results that Obama was the 'winner'...for what that is worth "

mytwocents wrote on Sep 27, 2008 8:00 PM:

" Misfit wrote:.... say what you want about Obama...but Palin as next in line shows the horrible judgment of McCain and he proved it with his very first, important decision as it relates to the presidency. The rest of the world has caught on...what's wrong with the rest of you. "

Hear! Hear! Obama won. Mccain is a name dropping warmonger living in the past. Out with the old and in with the new!! OBAMA/BIDEN 08 "

Joe wrote on Sep 27, 2008 9:20 PM:

" Barock Obama is not experienced enough to be president. There are way more democrats who should have been the nominee instead. People just voted for him to see something different. A man who is half white and half black be president for the first time in history. Just like people voted for George W Bush because he was the son of George HW Bush. "

John Richards wrote on Sep 27, 2008 9:53 PM:

" Obama did not appear very presidential. He continually demeaned McCain by addressing him as John, instead of using the correct title, Senator. "

Ruff Limblog wrote on Sep 27, 2008 9:53 PM:

" I watched the debate and thought that for people that think aggressive and rude is 'strong', McCain won. If you like pro-wrestling, then McCain probably came off pretty well for you.

However, Obama is more like Martin Luther King, who very well might have been an American president if he had not been assassinated.

Calm, peaceful, dedicated, knowlegeable and DETERMINED.

Obama is now back up to +5 in the Daily Gallup. This was before the McCain campaign 'suspension' and before the debate, so we will need to check Tuesday's numbers to see where the bouncing ball lands.

The Gallup Poll seems to be a bit of an outlier in the sense that many of the state polls, especially in states that Bush won by as much as +20 have Obama even with McCain or slightly ahead. Since the Democrats have had a stellar year in voter registration and turnout - this may translate into an electoral landslide.

Obama doesn't have to 'win' in the boxing match sense, all he has to do is make enough people comfortable with the phrase "President Barack Obama".

I was sitting with my mother-in-law today looking at family albums with pictures of my lovely wife as a young girl. Seeing the baby, the toddler, the girl, the teen, the young mom - all the steps that gave me my wonderful wife.

And tonight I got to thinking - It's going to be nice to watch those two little girls grow up! It's been too long since real youngsters were living in America's White House! They will be late teens when Barack Obama finishes his two terms.

~Ruff "

John Richards wrote on Sep 27, 2008 10:00 PM:

" B.O. is supposed to be an el primo debater, yet he did not deliver the knockout punch I had been expecting. McCain held up pretty well. I don't choose my president based on who is the smoothest debater. "

injoy wrote on Sep 27, 2008 10:09 PM:

" Oh McCain Handsdown, for sure!
He had me at War Hero! "

John Richards wrote on Sep 27, 2008 10:30 PM:

" I thought McCain made his most effective point when he attacked B.O.'s position on Iraq. In January 2007, B.O. called for all our combat troops to be out by spring of 2008. You can imagine what would have happened, had we actually followed B.O.'s advice: the fall of the Iraqi government, followed by horrific sectarian and ethnic internal bloodbaths, the likes of which we have not seen in modern times, followed by Turkey and Iran carving up what was left. And all our soldiers would have died in vain. "

misfit wrote on Sep 27, 2008 10:43 PM:

" Obama came in as the underdog on this topic. It was important that he hold his own and he did well above that. I would have expected Hohn to do well considering his "27 years experience, blah, blah, blah". So, what is the big deal that John held his own? He should have been able to put Obama to rest and he didn't do it. Obama comes out ahead because of this debate.
Now...whoever said that Obama doesn't have enough experience yet, praises Sarah Palin??? Once again...NO Credibility. I rest my case. "

Hear Ye wrote on Sep 27, 2008 10:58 PM:

" JR-

Where did you hear Obama is supposed to be some el primo debater? "

PlasticPinkFlamingo wrote on Sep 27, 2008 11:10 PM:

" Doing it just like WeeWilly did - talk like a Republican to try to get elected, and if he does he will make a sharp left turn and start pushing his socialist state garbage on us. That's the only reason Obama kept saying "I agree". He really didn't, he just wanted middle America to think so.

If Obama honestly told the country what he's going to do to us, his poll numbers that ruff is so fond of would be in a freefall down to the leftist hardcore residual percentage, far less that what is needed to be elected.

A few weeks ago ruff was saying polls don't mean anything, now he can't write a post without trumpeting some phony numbers - butt ruff, I caught you giving out false numbers before, and you are doing it again. No backup, no source, just wild claims. Smoke and mirrors, just like the Obama campaign. "

Raven wrote on Sep 27, 2008 11:50 PM:

" Obama has always been considered a stronger speaker but weaker in debates as evidenced by his performances during all the Democratic debates...

Dwayne.....so you publish that statement about police state tactics but nowhere in it that i could see does it say what those tactics were supposed to be and against whom? "

Madison Jay Hamilton wrote on Sep 28, 2008 12:07 AM:

" Grape Guy writes, "the reason we invaded Iraq was because Sadam would not let weapons inspectors into his country to see if he was hiding anything." This is absolutely not true. "

PlasticPinkFlamingo wrote on Sep 28, 2008 12:32 AM:

" MJH - yes it is true. "

Joe wrote on Sep 28, 2008 12:48 AM:

" I want to know why Obama said his father was from Kenya and that's where he got his name. What does that have to do with anything? Was he trying to reasure people that he is not Muslim? "

comment wrote on Sep 28, 2008 3:23 AM:

" Saddam was willing to let weapons inspectors in, Grape Guy, especially after he knew the U.S. meant business. As we know now, Saddam had nothing to hide. Where are those weapons of mass destruction? "

ipondake wrote on Sep 28, 2008 6:52 AM:

" I believe Obama came out the winner. A key characteristic in being a leader is keeping your head straight and held high. Obama did achieve this despite being accused by McCain on a variety of things especially regarding experience. You think that McCain being commander will change his tactics if he becomes president? I doubt, its hard to teach an old dog new tricks as the saying goes. So the old has to get off the arena and let the new come in. The world does not want another Bush.Comments were posted regarding Obama being a Muslim down under. So what is this suppose to imply? that all Muslims are bad? That Obama is a Muslim at heart? What is it then? We live in a world with different cultures and religion, one culture needs to live in harmony with the other. I believe Obama is capable of achieving that. McCain on the other hand is totally in capable. He only has experience in the political sense thinking on the higher level which is high income earners and the amount of money that needs to go into their pockets. What about the those that cannot be in those shoes? They get sent to war, they are killed in battle but then what becomes of those left behind? The agony and the pain worsens and yet McCain will say your son did a great job serving his country and then sends more soldiers to war. Do you want to support a president such as this? Only to loose loved ones to a blind course. A president who will do things irrationally.
Obama is able to think rationally due to his own personal experiences and not those gained from politics and through his understanding of cultures. GOD BLESS "

Grape guy wrote on Sep 28, 2008 9:39 AM:

" Comment & Raven,

Check your facts and Google your heart out today. UN Weapons inspectors were repeatedly kicked out of the country and waited patiently in Kuwait for weeks to be allowed back in. This was a UN Resolution led by a multi-country inspections team that was not U.S. led. This resolution was grossly ignored. "

lucylu wrote on Sep 28, 2008 9:47 AM:

" Raven-
The polls I was looking at on the non-liberal cable new channels the night of the debate stated that 86% McCain won- 16% Obama- 2% undecided.......the several liberal comentators they were interviewing were begging their liberal friends to cast their vote. "

really? wrote on Sep 28, 2008 10:09 AM:

" how silly, I can't believe anyone wants to maintain the same old, same old - a republican is a republican with or without lipstick.
the fact Palin was chosen as a running mate & she actually believes she's qualified is the most obvious reason the pair of them are unsuited for the position. particularly in troubled times. did anyone remember McCain's involvement with Enron?
Victory in Iraq - please. stop wasting lives & money. "

Hear Ye wrote on Sep 28, 2008 11:44 AM:

" Lucylu-

That's hilarious. Those aren't scientific polls. Guess what Obama won by at the Daily Kos. The scientific polls all had Obama winning. Ask Lindsey Graham. "

a teacher wrote on Sep 28, 2008 11:48 AM:

" PPF and grapeguy. UN weapons inspectors were in Iraq from November of 2002 until the eve of the war in March 2003. They left when it was clear that Bush would invade Iraq in spite of his failure to obtain a resolution authorizing the use of force. That's from a CBS report dating March 18, 2003.

We fought a war for nothing. Those people died for nothing. Our continued presence there is to justify our original invasion, which was for nothing. "

comment wrote on Sep 28, 2008 12:17 PM:

" Grape Guy, I didn't even have to google my heart out to find this:

"In March 2003, Hans Blix reported that, "No evidence of proscribed activities have so far been found," in Iraq, saying that progress was made in inspections which would continue. But the U.S. government announced that "diplomacy has failed" and that it would proceed with a coalition of allied countries, named the "coalition of the willing", to rid Iraq of its alleged weapons of mass destruction. The U.S. government abruptly advised U.N. weapons inspectors to immediately pull out of Baghdad. At 5:34 AM Baghdad time on March 20, 2003 (9:34 p.m., March 19 EST) the military invasion of Iraq began."

I know that making up facts and pretending they're true is the new Republican way. This shows you're wrong. The war on Iraq destroyed relationships with our allies because be Bush and Co. continued to press for war when it was unnecessary. The war on Iraq will go down as the biggest sham in American history whether the U.S. "wins" or not. "

lucylu wrote on Sep 28, 2008 4:44 PM:

" Hear Ye:

My point exactly- polls don't show the true heart of the american people...just wait until the vote is cast in November- do you remember John Kerry? Can we say ....."won by a landslide" We live in a valley that is so sheltered and liberal that they just don't get it... "

Joe wrote on Sep 28, 2008 4:51 PM:

" It is a great thing to be fighting terrorist organizations in Iraq. They treat there people horribly. Especially female children. Even though many Iraqi civilians have bben killed I'm sure to them it's worth it for a chance to be liberated from these terrorists. It is worth fighting to prevent another haulacast. "

Hear Ye wrote on Sep 28, 2008 5:18 PM:

" I guess I can't say landslide because if I recall the election came down to Ohio where Bush won an extremely close race. If Kerry would have won there he would have been President. I remember being glued to the TV waiting for the official Ohio numbers. If popular vote doesn't count in 2000 then it doesn't count in 2004, am I right?

And Napa is sheltered and liberal and doesn't get what? That the Conservatives on here can shove poll numbers down our throat when they are in their favor but if a Liberal does it they are clueless? Doesn't seem fair to me.

And for someone to write that Obama is a Muslim in disguise and then try and tell someone they "don't get it", well I think I know exactly who doesn't get it. "

msdemo wrote on Sep 29, 2008 8:08 AM:

" A friend of mine used to be in the Republican party until she saw the light. She said that ignoring your opponent and never saying his name is a typical Republican tactic. So McCain was coached! But not for his mean manner.

As to religion, I would like to see this taken completely out of the loop. We are a non sectarian country and I would as soon vote for a buddhist or muslin as a Christian or even one who was completely honest and had no religion. "

omikron67 wrote on Sep 29, 2008 8:18 AM:

" I can't believe that people will vote for 4 more years of Republician Rule? Where the heck have you been the last 8 years oh yes can you say Ostrich!! I say enough of this McBush and his ilk. "

localmama wrote on Sep 29, 2008 8:38 AM:

" The only thing Obama has going for him is, is he is a good speaker- "Blah, Blah, Blah" it just means he is well rehearsed and a slick willy.

McCain knows his issues and he stands behind them. He is a strong Presidential candidate who will get the job done and he will have Sarah Palin along side of him who is also a very strong candidate! What a GREAT team! "

localmama wrote on Sep 29, 2008 8:42 AM:

" I don't get some of you, can't mention names but since when is this a High School Popularity Contest? "Obama is cool".... are you kidding me? Does he have anything else to contribute- oh yes, he wants to raise taxes after all someone needs to cover his expensive spending habits. Like about $93 million. "

Sandra wrote on Sep 29, 2008 8:55 AM:

" I think McCain came out slightly ahead. I think BOTH candidates were lacking when talking about the economy. BUT, I found it very enlightening when Obama was asked how he would specifically CUT BACK because of the current financial crises, and he only could say how he would spend money in certain areas. McCain at least gave an answer to the question. On foreign policy, especially the Middle East.... Obamas lack of practical knowledge was frightening to me. He really did not seem to have a clear idea of who and what we are dealing with. Many in this country do not understand what we are dealing with....BUT our Presidential candidates should. McCain does...Obama doesn't.
I also found many of the comments about McCain "smirking", etc. to be sour grapes. Did it ever occur to you that McCain smile was one of incredulousness at the foolish things coming out of Obama's mouth? And saying this, "However, Obama is more like Martin Luther King,"...too funny...I thought he was like Jesus.... "

Chardonnay wrote on Sep 29, 2008 9:24 AM:

" Obama looked like your typical lawyer…talking without saying anything. He was not willing to commit to anything besides increasing spending on early childhood development. In Napa County that is essentially free day care. How many government run day cares produce scientist? I am working mom of three and I won’t even take a free handout because other people shouldn’t have to pay for it.

This country is going to be in a world of hurt if Obama is elected and our national security will be in jeopardy. Obama’s campaign has produced numbers that show his economic plan is going to add to the deficit. Bush doesn’t have an 80% disapproval rating because only democrats don’t like him! McCain has the ability to rein in Washington spending and get us back on track and the US will have a tough President that is respected around the world. "

ONEWORLD77 wrote on Sep 29, 2008 10:04 AM:

" Chardonnay,

My dear, God bless you for having three kids. I can tell that you already have given your children all you can for success in their lives. Soon, they will be looking forward to college. Hope you're saving! You obviously don't think anyone should help you out- How many government run day cares produce (a) scientist? Would you rather the government buy guns and hand your kid one of those and send him to protect our oil position, or would you rather they help him/'her to go to college?

THe bottom line is that we are far from respected in the world BECAUSE of our military arrogance and policy of not talking to terrorists. Well wake up JOhn McInsane, they ARE credible threats and should be treated as such- Maybe spending billions of dollars to defend an oil position isn't the best use of money? Instead, let's let Paulson (presidential appointment) spend more of our money on something ELSE we won't see with no consequences. Fannie/Freddie? Messy.

Agreed, GOP'rs too are tired of Bush. But what's worse, is that Bush himself has made it apparant that HE is only the head. The neck (cabinet...defense...reserve board...congress) can turn the head any way they want. I find it a ridiciulous argument that McCain would do anything against his R's after being so proudly involved with the mess-making.

Curse your short memories Napans! Wake up! This is OUR country to run. Us. THe community! More Kangaroos (short arms and deep pockets) like McCain will keep money going to killing and warfare. I would rather have a positive peacemaker, who will create good morale and a 'captain of the ship' attitude that has already won over the world economy... WAKE UP!! OBAMA/BIDEN 08 "

luv1mom wrote on Sep 29, 2008 10:22 AM:

" I think Obama won hands down. I didn't think it possible, but I like McCain even less now. He is caught up in "war mode". He seemed slow. And I don't know if anyone else noticed, but he never looked at Obama throughout the debate. He must think he is so superior. Typical rich dude.

Oboma/Biden 2008! "

reader wrote on Sep 29, 2008 10:55 AM:

" I was most struck by the fact that McCain never once made eye contact with Obama. The moderator attempted to get them to speak to each other. Obama did speak directly to McCain several times, looking directly at McCain. When McCain spoke he kept his head lowered; no eye contact. I read McCain's body language him being either uncomfortable or fearful of being put off guard if he looked at Obama. "

chardonnay wrote on Sep 29, 2008 11:40 AM:

" ONEWORLD77

I have been saving for my children’s education; all three of them have 529 accounts and they are all under 10 years old. I also paid for my college education as well as my husbands. If my children chose to join the military to protect their freedom and yours then I assume you would be grateful. See that freedom and the ability for you to blog your opinion is a benefit of freedom. I agree that the Republicans have been off the charts in spending in the last 4 years and it needs to get back in control. What is Obama going to do? I don’t want a government healthcare system that would limit treatment options, drug choices and cut rate doctors, no thanks.

Look we can all be angry at Bush, I myself am disappointed in the outrageous spending. Are people voting for Obama because they hate Bush or because they really like Obama? I have yet for one person to tell me, “WHAT IS OBAMA GOING TO DO?” Instead of getting angry why don’t you enlighten me on what your candidate is going to do… "

localmama wrote on Sep 29, 2008 11:58 AM:

" Who really cares if McCain looked directly at Obama? Does that dictate how he will run a country? There are much more important issues at hand. "

anticommie wrote on Sep 29, 2008 1:40 PM:

" I felt the debate was a terrible waste of time. The fact that we are giving these two guys the time of day is quite sad. I like McCain much better than Obama. Obama is a left wing radical and everyone that supports him knows it. But he is "New" and will "change" America. but his change is no good for this country. McCain at least is still a capitalist. I think I am going to switch to Bob Barr of the Libertarian Party. The Republicans have messed up just too much, and the Democrats are just socialists. It is a sad day for me, a sad day. "

msdemo wrote on Sep 29, 2008 2:39 PM:

" I travel in foreign countries often and everywhere I go from the 2004 elections until now, Bush is hated. However the people in many countries feel a kin ship to Obama. I feel our foreign relations will be MUCH better once Bush is gone. I liked Obama's approach to meeting with all foreign countries representatives. I thought it was awful when Mrs. Bush snubbed the president of Iran at the UN.

One thing the people of other countries say "we like Americans but not your government" I want to be told we like your country! "

lucylu wrote on Sep 29, 2008 7:03 PM:

" Once again the liberals and their endless curcumlocution make us yawn..... "

msdemo wrote on Sep 29, 2008 7:09 PM:

" sorry to bore you lucylu but you know how we liberals are. And I am proud to be a liberal. Look it up in Websters and then check conservative. I'd much rather be a liberal. "

lucylu wrote on Sep 29, 2008 8:43 PM:

" Republicians: work hard for the american dream

Democrats: expect the government to provide programs to pay for eveything they want "

suze wrote on Sep 29, 2008 8:52 PM:

" McCain did better than I thought he would. I had yet to see him speak without simply reading a script off the podium. Obama did not do as well as I had hoped, but he still came out ahead for me. He has an excellent, swift intellect. He is gracious and I feel he will have the flexibility that will be needed in this very difficult job. I thought McCain was just plain bad mannered. He did not even look at Obama and showed how little control he had over his smoldering hatred of his opponent. How is he going to do as President when in the hot seat dealing with other world leaders? I found this quite alarming. He is interviewing for the most important diplomatic job in the world. He will need to have manners in addition to being a quick and clever thinker. He showed his age with constant referencing to the past and his 'experience.' There is no experience for being President of the United States. It is a think on your feet job. You will inherit a mess and who knows what will come next. "

SFpop wrote on Sep 30, 2008 9:24 AM:

" Between the two, Obama looked the most Presidential. He was polite, spoke directly to McCain and didn't try to snowball anything.
McCain... I'm having some issues with. There's a video out the where if you listen closely, he responded to one of Obama's comments with not one, but TWO expletive words that I cannot put in this blog. Look it up. McCain was rude, unwilling to look Obama in the eye or even face towards Obama when he was being addressed.
My vote is for Obama, nor more than even.
However, I think that the VP debate will be one where I kick back on my couch with a bowl full of popcorn and I get ready to watch the best comedy of the year. "

luv1mom wrote on Sep 30, 2008 9:44 AM:

" msdemo: I agree with you. I think it is so arrogant that McCain would refuse to talk to the heads of any other country.

Lucylu: I am pround to be a liberal too.

Suze: I agree with you in that McCain has poor manners. The jaw clenching, and not looking at Obama speak volumes for me.

Remember, this debate should have gone McCain's way, this is his area of expertise, and Obama did just a little better. "

14obama wrote on Sep 30, 2008 11:09 AM:

" Hey lucylu ! What's this american dream you're making reference to,anyway ? Seems to me every time I get on my feet,the rug gets pulled out from under me. One step forward and two steps back. This is a great country,but it would be much better without the greedy elephants stealin their way to their glass houses on the golf courses. "

msdemo wrote on Sep 30, 2008 11:41 AM:

" According to Webster's New World Dictionary

Liberal: generous, ample, abundant, not literal or strict, tolerant, broadminded, favoring reform or progress

Conservative: tending to conserve, tending to preserve established institutions, opposed to change, moderate, cautious

Yes, I would rather be labeled a Liberal.
And I am happy to see I'm not the only one. "

lucylu wrote on Sep 30, 2008 3:43 PM:

" msdemo-
you're happy to be a liberal because you live in a county that has mostly liberals living here and you feel good following....step out into middle american and see what you get. Conservatives that are leaders and know how to lead people and take charge for themselves and not expect the government to help them out all the time.

As far as McCain being rude- in my Ivy league college upbringing, I was taught that the correct way to debate was to address the facilitator and audience and answering the question asked- not engaging in an informal conversation with the opponnet- this was a debate right? ohhh, I forgot I'm living among tree huggers "

Hear ye wrote on Sep 30, 2008 5:32 PM:

" Looks like someone didn't read the debate format before posting. Tisk tisk...so much for the ivy league "

Raven wrote on Oct 1, 2008 4:24 AM:

" lucylu that may be but both candidates were asked and encouraged by the moderator to address each other rather than the moderator.

latest studies also indicate that people do tend to become more liberal as they grow older... "

14obama wrote on Oct 1, 2008 8:43 AM:

" lucylu, I suggest that you seriously hug a tree. I did and am a better person for it. Surely,with an Ivy Leeg education you can be a bit more openminded,right ?
If it weren't for the Liberals in the 60's we'd have been fighting longer and losing many more lives in Viet Nam. Open your eyes for a change ! You're stuck in a rut ! "

bettye wrote on Oct 1, 2008 12:09 PM:

" Hey, Obama IS really cool !! AND calm and collected.. just the qualities we need in a president .. especially in this grave time .. Someone told me the other day that they wished he was republican because they need someone to speak ELOQUENTLY and PURSUASEVLY for GOD'S side !! I don't believe God is Dem. or rep. so that was a really sad statement and shows the mentality of some desparate republicans.. "

lucylu wrote on Oct 1, 2008 1:10 PM:

" Bettye,
If God had to choose, he'd be a Republican- why..... because He doesn't approve of abortion. Just because someone is a smooth talker doesn't mean they have values and are a better candidate... does it help...yes...but that is not everyone's gift- I look at the issues not at how eloquent the allocution is. "

Hear Ye wrote on Oct 1, 2008 2:25 PM:

" Lucylu-

That crazy God is playing games again. He told me he would be a Democrat because of their morals, values, and compassion towards the less fortunate. Who knew that God would be a flip-flopper? "

lucylu wrote on Oct 1, 2008 7:10 PM:

" Hear Ye: You're right...who knew??..:-) "

anticommie wrote on Oct 1, 2008 9:42 PM:

" Raven:

I think our society is getting more and more less educated as the years pass. I for one have become more and more conservative the older I get. I think it is because I realize that many people around me are getting lazier and lazier. They continue in their stoned out coma, and want the rest of us hard working individuals to pay for their healthcare, their house payments, their everything! "

pbsm777 wrote on Oct 2, 2008 12:37 AM:

" Umm, Raven, "They continue in their stoned out coma, and want the rest of us hard working individuals to pay for their healthcare, their house payments, their everything! "
This is the REPUBLICAN BUSH PAULSON BAILOUT plan.... except for the Healthcare part, because that would be socialism/nationalism....

Conservative Republicans used to stand for LESS government. Oh wait, it's Clinton's fault. No wait, it's Obama's fault. No wait Nancy Pelosi used mean words.

WEAK and HYPOCRITICAL. "

pbsm777 wrote on Oct 2, 2008 12:48 AM:

" Umm, Raven, "They continue in their stoned out coma, and want the rest of us hard working individuals to pay for their healthcare, their house payments, their everything! (Wall Street Ripoff) "
This is the REPUBLICAN BUSH PAULSON BAILOUT plan.... except for the Healthcare part, because that would be socialism/nationalism.... AIG Government buyout of 80% ownership is now largest U.S. Government takeover of a publicly traded corporation in our history. This was not a loan. We taxpayers just bought 80% ownership!Don't hold your breath for you stock dividend. But that's not Socialism....

Conservative Republicans used to stand for LESS government. Oh wait, it's Clinton's fault. No wait, it's Obama's fault. No wait Nancy Pelosi used mean words.

WEAK and HYPOCRITICAL. "

pbsm777 wrote on Oct 2, 2008 12:55 AM:

" Raven: I Apologize. The previous posts were directed to Anticommie. I can only say the quote I used that anticommie made just made me cross eyed.
With username Anticommie irony of supporting Socialistic bailout of coroporate greed that put us in this position. "

sea it wrote on Oct 2, 2008 2:17 PM:

" I enjoyed the debate, probably more than McCain. It was obvious to me that he was feeling frustrated and outsmarted, why else would he feel the need to be so rude and insulting to Obama. "

ericktam wrote on Oct 3, 2008 3:50 AM:

" "the debate was so interesting. i think it helps every individual,to decide who is the right person to be elected to the position. both parties presented a very promising plan for the country and to the rest of the world, we'll just hope that this plans will become fruitful, and that the entire country will benefit to this endeavor. God bless to both of them.. "

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