Palin v. Biden: Who won last night's debate?

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Sunday, October 05, 2008

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By DAN ROSS
Register Online Staff

The only VP debate is over, and the time is now to weigh in (without name-calling) on how you think both Sarah Palin and Joe Biden did in the debate.

Note: Sorry folks who did this last night, the article archived too early. Below you will find the 49 comments from last night, as I paste them back in to this thread.

146 comment(s)

pbfallon wrote on Oct 3, 2008 9:18 AM:

" Depends on which news source you read. The liberal MSNBC poll shows Biden by 10 points. Fox news shows Palin by a landslide. Most commentators on Fox last night, including Democrat Morris, chose Palin by a ton. I personnaly got bored after 30 minutes and turned it off. I call it a draw. I will say that for a man who has been a career politician, Joe Biden is a huge..no super huge..disappointment. He is absolutely partr of what is wrong in Washington today! "

freeport56 wrote on Oct 3, 2008 9:31 AM:

" Without a doubt it was Gov. Palin. Joe Biden did not even know the Constitutional responsibilities of the Vice President. His comments on Global Warming are out of touch, his energy policies disasterous, and his recounting of Sen. McC ains votes left out why he voted againest some legislation. Biden is too entrenched to be effective as a leader. His tarnished past is a huge black mark! "

sdnapa wrote on Oct 3, 2008 9:37 AM:

" while i believe both candidates got some of their facts wrong, it seemed pretty clear that all the "worries" about palin not knowing about how our country is run or whether she would present herself as intelligent was put to rest. she certainly was. the problem i see with debates is that one party says one thing, the other party says the opposite, and we have to decide who's telling the truth, or look into the deep dark archives of congress' records to see who is correct. most americans won't take the time to do that. they will trust whichever media outlet they listen to to get the facts "straight". we all know there is media bias for both parties. sarah palin is a very likable lady, is sharp, has a good handle on what's what. biden was aggressive and somewhat demonstrative. my opinion is that if you can declare a "winner", it was palin. "

raybo wrote on Oct 3, 2008 9:46 AM:

" I give a slight edge to Sen. Biden. He didn't self-destruct. I thought Gov. Palin was a bit too folksy, and worst of all, she mis-pronounced "nucLEar". "

luv1mom wrote on Oct 3, 2008 9:52 AM:

" Biden won, by far. I am even more confident he is more than qualified, for VP or President. I will admit Palin did better than I expected and for once she didn't embarass herself. I guess the 5 days of "drill debate camp" paid off. However, she is still not qualified for the job. The "aw shucks darn right" folksy lingo is a bit annoying too.

Oh, and Sarah it is N-U-C-L-E-A-R not N-U-C-Y-A-L-E-R!!

Obama/Biden 2008!! "

Common Sense wrote on Oct 3, 2008 10:07 AM:

" Sarah Palin won. What a spectacular performance. "

tuareen wrote on Oct 3, 2008 10:07 AM:

" I think they both "won". Joe Biden acted like an experienced Senator with a strong commitment to helping the middle class. Good job. Sarah Palin did not provide SNL with any ready-made skits. That is all she needed to do. "

GregN. wrote on Oct 3, 2008 10:17 AM:

" Biden.

"Now that's what I call a bridge to no where!" "

Native74 wrote on Oct 3, 2008 10:23 AM:

" I think both did remarkably well and in fact made me wonder why we couldn't have a Biden/Palin ticket...

I also think Palin made up for the flack she had gotten from the 'filtered' interviews this past week. I was worried and the worry was set aside after the debate. "

MarkMathews wrote on Oct 3, 2008 10:45 AM:

" Governor Palin did. In spite of being confronted with a biased questioner and unashamedly and slobbishly Obama leaning media, she showed herself to be able to hold her own against an entrentched product of the inner belt-way who is everything BUT the definition of 'change." I still look forward to ANYONE telling me WHY democrats and the media have constantly compared the top of the democrat ticket with the bottom of the Republican ticket. Fear perhaps? "

MP wrote on Oct 3, 2008 10:45 AM:

" I don't think the format allowed us to see who they really were or what they really thought about the issues. I find it insulting that both parties think I can be impressed by memorized answers. Given that I believe Biden has deeper understanding of the issues....I think he won. Palin did a good job reciting her crammed and coached answers and was charming doing it. I can't tell where the coached answers end and the real understanding is. I thought she came across fake. I can't give her a win because she didn't make a stupid mistake. She may be president if she and McCain are elected and should be held to the same standard as Biden. "

Listening wrote on Oct 3, 2008 10:54 AM:

" Of course Palin was considered an underdog and the liberal media had her schedule to crash. She didn't. Biden held his own but he was supposed to be the superior entity at the debate. Because Palin didn't crash, because she was articulate, informative, etc. I would have to select her as the winner. But despite the conflict over who won, she shored up her public image and that isreally what it is all about. "

pbsm777 wrote on Oct 3, 2008 11:09 AM:

" " If your whole goal is to beat the absolute lowest expectation of "don't blow it for the party" she passed. Wow, there's a success. Be better than awful and you must be great?!

Now she's a Maverick just like McCain.. I guess you are a Maverick if you believe that an abortion is NOT an option if you are RAPED or a victim of INCEST. She also made rape victims PAY for their sexual assault hospital rape tests in Alaska. FACT.
That's a Maverick you got me there~!

Expand the role of the vice president as far as powers go? Hello US Constititution Article 1. What is the Republicans goal for the role of LESS government? VP Cheney with Lipstick?

What's up with winking at the audience? I guess that's cute. Way to establsih substance Repubs. Wink Wink?

Must be Clinton's fault, wait it's the mainstream media fault - Rupert Murdoch (Foreign Owner) controls Tv stations (Fox, Newspapers, and Radio Stations) and they still say they don't have a voice. They are whiners and hypocrites.

Still can't get over Clinton 8 years later, that just proves you're a failure because you can't get past 8 years of control in the White House, 10 out of 12 years of the Congressional control but Republicans are VICTIMS of the Clinton White House,....

Wait, no it's Obama's fault, no wait, it's Biden's fault, no wait Nancy Pelosi used mean words.

McCain in Michigan...Oh wait - in Republican words - He Cut and Ran.
Must be Obama's fault. This time I AGREE! " "

sdnapa wrote on Oct 3, 2008 11:09 AM:

" so she's a terrible candidate because she mispronounced a word & she uses "lingo"??? i thought maybe people would come up with better reasons than that not to like her.
geez people. if you're looking for any reason not to like someone, you'll find it. if those are the only reasons not to like someone or feel they're qualified, we will never ever find anyone electible. people aren't perfect for crying out loud. and, as i stated in my previous post, it depends on which media outlet you watch & believe as to who "won" the debate. "

a teacher wrote on Oct 3, 2008 11:12 AM:

" Biden actually answered questions and gave substantive answers. Palin, on the other hand, ducked several questions and replied with obviously programmed replies that were little more than campaign speeches.

On the other hand, she made no obvious mistakes or gaffs (neither did Biden) and she came off as charming, pleasant and earnest. In fact, I was impressed with the courtesy both extended each other, in marked contrast to the Presidential debates. Perhaps it was a strategetic decision on both parts, but I came away feeling that both are decent human beings (I could picture them having a beer afterwards and a few laughs at their running mates expense).

Over all a tie. Biden did better, but Palin didn't crash and burn. Nothing changes, which is bad news for the McCain ticket. "

NVR-Dan Ross wrote on Oct 3, 2008 11:42 AM:

" Here's last nights comments, in multiple parts:
Madison Jay Hamilton wrote on Oct 2, 2008 7:54 PM:
" Biden was knowledgeable, confident and serious. Palin gave voice to a stream of cliches. Biden made his case. Palin dodged questions and lamely attempted to shmooze her way through ninety minutes of non-answers. "

marikavlwrote on Oct 2, 2008 8:04 PM:
" I think You did not wach the debate?!
Gov Palen was GREAT!!!!.But I guess it is hard to admitt "

MarkMiwords wrote on Oct 2, 2008 8:11 PM:
" I'll admit, Palin didn't crash & burn as I had expected. But technically, she lost the debate because time and again, she refused to answer the questions asked of her. Biden won. "

ladyinchargetx wrote on Oct 2, 2008 8:14 PM:
" Biden did a great job. And I agree with MJH. The only question I could see that PALIN actually answered without skirting and changing the subject, was about being opposed to gay marriage. Did she fail horribly? No. But she did not answer the questions and you could tell her answers were "canned". If she did not know an answer, she diverted the subject matter back to something she had already addressed. Biden won, hands down! "

Hear Ye wrote on Oct 2, 2008 8:16 PM:
" Man that was good stuff. Biden far exceeded my expectations. Even Palin did better than I expected although admittedly I didn't expect much. Biden was not hesitant, handled himself well and actually answered the questions with detail and substance. I think it is safe to say he outperformed even McCain and Obama in debating. His stock is rising. " "

NVR-Dan Ross wrote on Oct 3, 2008 11:44 AM:

" More from last night:
just me wrote on Oct 2, 2008 8:20 PM:
" I was expecting a much more comedic performance from Palin. She did better than I expected. But she still lost. Out of all four of those people Biden is the most "Presidential". Unfortunately both of our choices for president blow. Good luck to us as a nation we are needing it. "

newnapan wrote on Oct 2, 2008 8:22 PM:
" Palin did what she had to great job "

bettye wrote on Oct 2, 2008 8:37 PM:
" Well ,at least Palin connected her sentences ( better than with Katie Couric). Biden was much more knowledgeable and answered the questions with ease. But Palin actually did better than I expected ..Biden won ,hands down, though. It was really nice to see the interaction between the candidates after the debate ..That is as it should be ..disagree ,agreeably .. "

NVGal wrote on Oct 2, 2008 8:39 PM:
" I thought this was a great debate. It was clear in the beginning that Palin set the tone and it was very spirited on both sides.

It is no news that Biden is more experienced, and he gave a strong performance. If you were looking for Palin to fall on her face, you would be very disappointed.

My question after the debate is why is Joe Biden the VP pick? It was clear to me tonight that he is a better choice than Obama... " "

NVR-Dan Ross wrote on Oct 3, 2008 11:47 AM:

" cab e-girl wrote on Oct 2, 8:43 PM:
" She may have "technically" lost the debate, but she did appeal to mainstream America. Having checked some of Biden's statements during the debate, he certainly misstated facts about what Obama supported and what McCain supported. Since he has had a problem with plagiarism in the past, I am not sure that will bode well for him. "

napagirl63 wrote on Oct 2, 2008 8:48 PM:
" PALIN WAS GREAT! GO MCCAIN! yeah, i can defend that, i am in college and am in a great, informative political science class, i know the political side of the presidential campaign, McCain is the best qualified candidate, and is greatly supported by Palin, They are a Great team and will do this country good. Palin shows that she is a true citizen, she is straight forward and confident. "

napagirl63 wrote on Oct 2, 2008 8:52 PM:
" I dont really understand how Biden is going to settle to be a VP when he ran for president, i think that his opinions are too strong, he is going to want to take over the country. i dont believe that he would take orders lightly from Obama. Palin is obviously behind McCain on his positions, She is a true VP candidate. "

Madison Jay Hamilton wrote on Oct 2, 2008 8:58 PM:
" The plagerism charge repeatedly leveled at Biden is bogus. In a few within a series of speeches (many years ago), Biden did not attribute quotations to another speaker (that he had attributed previously). Compared to Sarah Palin, Biden is a Cicero. "

kevin wrote on Oct 2, 2008 9:02 PM:
" MJH, so Biden dropped out of the presidential race over a "bogus" charge? Not very "presidential"... " "

NVR-Dan Ross wrote on Oct 3, 2008 11:49 AM:

" next set:
cab e-girl wrote on Oct 2, 2008 9:06 PM:
" Biden misstated facts during the debate several times. "

Lsusz wrote on Oct 2, 2008 9:07 PM:
" Finally, we will hopefully have a vice president we can respect and admire! Joe Biden clearly won the debate, he is fair, honest and truly cares about our country. "

zacharyroyce wrote on Oct 2, 2008 9:08 PM:
" The whole thing was like a race by both VP candidates to score points with, by the level of dialogue, the stupidest people in America. "

estadounidense wrote on Oct 2, 2008 9:10 PM:
" It's pathetic to see the American people being 'courted' by such madness... It is clear that Palin is not qualified and is just smiling her way through, showing off her legs! If she were a man, people would be calling for her to remove herself. The mere fact that she was selected is sexist! Good job GOP. Not only that, the comments about Joe Biden "looking more presidential" and settling for a VP spot instead of POTUS only says America hasn't changes much in the last century.. Obama is the best candidate but, won't be recognized because of his skin! You all would rather put an unqualified woman, war-mongering old man, or any other white man for that matter than Obama.. God Bless America! " "

NVR-Dan Ross wrote on Oct 3, 2008 11:50 AM:

" more:
pbsm777 wrote on Oct 2, 2008 9:25 PM:
" If your whole goal is to beat the absolute lowest expectation of "don't blow it for the party" she passed. Wow, there's a success. Be better than awful and you must be great?!

Now she's a Maverick just like McCain.. I guess you are a Maverick if you believe that an abortion is NOT an option if you are RAPED or a victim of INCEST. You also made rape victims PAY for their sexual assault hospital rape tests in Alaska. FACT.
That's a Maverick you got me there~!

Expand the role of the vice president as far as powers go? Hello US Constititution Article 1. What is the Republicans goal for the role of LESS government? VP Cheney with Lipstick?

What's up with winking at the audience? I guess that's cute. Way to establsih substance Repubs. Wink Wink?

Must be Clinton's fault, wait it's the mainstream media fault - Rupert Murdoch (Foreign Owner) controls Tv stations (Fox, Newspapers, and Radio Stations) and they still say they don't have a voice. They are whiners and hypocrites. Still can't get over Clinton 8 years later, that just proves you're a failure because you can't get past 8 years of control in the White House, 10 out of 12 years of the Congress but Republicans are VICTIMS of the Clinton White House,....

Wait, no it's Obama's fault, no wait, it's Biden's fault, no wait Nancy Pelosi used mean words.

McCain in Michigan...Oh wait - in Republican words - He Cut and Ran.
Must be Obama's fault. This time I AGREE! " "

NVR-Dan Ross wrote on Oct 3, 2008 11:51 AM:

" yep, there's more:
TrickleDown wrote on Oct 2, 2008 9:27 PM:
" It is incredibly funny to me that it is called a success that Palin didn't fall flat on her face. That is definitely holding the bar high for a person that is so close to the presidency of this country.

No, she didn't fall on her face and it will be interesting to see if her folksy-isms resonate with undecideds. To argue that she won the debate is laughable, however. At best she didn't add much more to the nosedive of a presidential run that McCain has put together of late. Today he pulled out of Michigan, so things aren't looking so hot.

I hope and pray that what happens is that the McCain team is encouraged by her performance and send her out to give more interviews. The Couric interview is the gift that keeps on giving, and I would love to see her questioned some more. "

LMW wrote on Oct 2, 2008 9:28 PM:
" ask who Shined...she did good. "

Master Chief wrote on Oct 2, 2008 9:31 PM:
" Come on Napa and wake up! Biden was held back tonight and obviously looked eveey bit of it. Sarah is a fresh voice for middle America and will offer a fresh look to the inner circle of Washington. Biden was no good as a Presidential nominee and even less appealing as a VP. Vote John & Sarah in for real reform! "

Hear Ye wrote on Oct 2, 2008 9:45 PM:
" Palin made misleading statements about votes and issues in regards to Obama too. Welcome to the political arena. " "

cab e-girl wrote on Oct 3, 2008 11:54 AM:

" 14 "Untruths" by Senator Biden:
1. TAX VOTE: Biden said McCain voted “the exact same way” as Obama to increase taxes on Americans earning just $42,000, but McCain DID NOT VOTE THAT WAY.
2. AHMEDINIJAD MEETING: Joe Biden lied when he said that Barack Obama never said that he would sit down unconditionally with Mahmoud Ahmedinijad of Iran. Barack Obama did say specifically, and Joe Biden attacked him for it.
3. OFFSHORE OIL DRILLING: Biden said, “Drill we must.” But Biden has opposed offshore drilling and even compared offshore drilling to “raping” the Outer Continental Shelf.”
4. TROOP FUNDING: Joe Biden lied when he indicated that John McCain and Barack Obama voted the same way against funding the troops in the field. John McCain opposed a bill that included a timeline, that the President of the United States had already said he would veto regardless of it’s passage.
5. OPPOSING CLEAN COAL: Biden says he’s always been for clean coal, but he just told a voter that he is against clean coal and any new coal plants in America and has a record of voting against clean coal and coal in the U.S. Senate.
6. ALERNATIVE ENERGY VOTES: According to FactCheck.org, Biden is exaggerating and overstating John McCain’s record voting for alternative energy when he says he voted against it 23 times.
7. HEALTH INSURANCE: Biden falsely said McCain will raise taxes on people’s health insurance coverage -- they get a tax credit to offset any tax hike. Independent fact checkers have confirmed this attack is false
8. OIL TAXES: Biden falsely said Palin supported a windfall profits tax in Alaska -- she reformed the state tax and revenue system, it’s not a windfall profits tax. "

NVR-Dan Ross wrote on Oct 3, 2008 11:54 AM:

" continued:
Madison Jay Hamilton wrote on Oct 2, 2008 9:50 PM:
" Palin said that troop levels in Iraq are back to pre-surge levels. That's not true. And, tell me... Who's General McClellan? (I thought he ran for President in 1864.) "

notshocked wrote on Oct 2, 2008 10:02 PM:
" To quote Paul Reiser.... she didn't stink up the place... isn't that something to be proud of?! People who liked Sarah like her more now and people who liked Joe like him more now. But to think that John & Sarah will bring real reform is the biggest laugh I got all night!

pbsm777... absolutely agree on the winking. A little like short skirts among world leaders who have trouble interacting with women. She's got a LOT to learn. Her handlers must have very very little control and/or she seems very very sheltered. "

Paddy wrote on Oct 2, 2008 10:04 PM:
" Debate? What debate? Go Dodgers! "

reader wrote on Oct 2, 2008 10:09 PM:
" Palin's bar was set low due to her past crash and burns; based on the past, she did much better. Biden was better than expected and exceded even that. He spoke to the issues and gave concrete examples of what Obama will do.

On the issues? Palin had no substance. She did not give specific examples of what McCain will do. She relied on Regan quotes and other examples of retoric.

Sorry, repubs., that is what I saw. "

injoy wrote on Oct 2, 2008 10:22 PM:
" Go Sarah ...she was great!
We bet
Gwen Ifill will be played by Kenan Thompson on Saturday Night Live this weekend. " "

cab e-girl wrote on Oct 3, 2008 11:55 AM:

" Continued
9. AFGHANISTAN / GEN. MCKIERNAN COMMENTS: Biden said that top military commander in Iraq said the principles of the surge could not be applied to Afghanistan, but the commander of NATO’s International Security Assistance Force Gen. David D. McKiernan said that there were principles of the surge strategy, including working with tribes, that could be applied in Afghanistan.
10. REGULATION: Biden falsely said McCain weakened regulation -- he actually called for more regulation on Fannie and Freddie.
11. IRAQ: When Joe Biden lied when he said that John McCain was “dead wrong on Iraq”, because Joe Biden shared the same vote to authorize the war and differed on the surge strategy where they John McCain has been proven right.
12. TAX INCREASES : Biden said Americans earning less than $250,000 wouldn’t see higher taxes, but the Obama-Biden tax plan would raise taxes on individuals making $200,000 or more.
13. BAILOUT: Biden said the economic rescue legislation matches the four principles that Obama laid out, but in reality it doesn’t meet two of the four principles that Obama outlined on Sept. 19, which were that it include an emergency economic stimulus package, and that it be part of “part of a globally coordinated effort with our partners in the G-20.”
14. REAGAN TAX RATES: Biden is wrong in saying that under Obama, Americans won’t pay any more in taxes then they did under Reagan. "

NVR-Dan Ross wrote on Oct 3, 2008 11:55 AM:

" mamyt wrote10:31 PM:
" I found Palin's demeanor insulting and unprofessional. I think candidates should be held to the same expectations of appropriate behavior regardless of gender. The winking and stereotyping of groups ie Soccer moms and Joe six pack were offensive and would not have been tolerated from a male candidate.

Do the people out there that consider themselves "joe six pack" really want a president who is their equal? I agree with the poster above the debate was a spectacle of pandering to the lowest common denominator. However GW did manage to win a second term so maybe there is a science behind the strategy. "

Sandra wrote 10:32 PM:
" Both candidates mistated some things, but Biden seemed to do it more.

Palin certainly held her own. In fact she came off more likeable, very articulate, and more accessable....and she was ceratinly right in saying she was not part of D.C. politics, and was right to point out Bidens change in opinion and actions from what he had done before.

She was inspiring when talking about personal responsibility, and how we needed to take charge and stop the corruption in Washington. Go Palin!

I am also struck by the petty, bitter remarks coming from those who do not like her. Keep it up...if that's all ya got she can take it and still shine through. The wink was for her parents...I guess you all must not have parents you love? You think it was wrong of her to acknowledge them? It was unprofessional? Give me a break. Get off your high horses and join the rest of the world.

I had to chuckle at an earlier post, where someone said Biden was a better candidate than Obama...I agree. " "

NVR-Dan Ross wrote on Oct 3, 2008 11:58 AM:

" MarkMiwords 10:32 PM:
" We need, and deserve, the nation's best and brightest as our leaders. Choosing a less than mediocre candidate for V.P. solely on the basis that she didn't do as horribly as we all expected, is crazy. Palin's winking at the camera, "folksy-speak", and condescinding tones, was absolutely insulting. We're not a bunch of kindergartners, and she's not the elementary school principal. "

Napagrrl 10:35 PM:
" I seriously don't understand why it is so hard to pronounce "nuclear" new-clee-ar as opposed to new-cue-lar. I don't want to go through four (or 8) more years of cringing when I hear that word. These people probably pronounce "realtor" as "ree-la-tor" as well. Aaackk!! "

Madison Jay Hamilton 10:42 PM:
" By choosing Sarah Palin as the GOP candidate for Vice President of the United States, John Sidney McCain III insulted the intelligence of all Americans. By choosing Sarah Palin as his running mate, Senator McCain gave evidence to those who have said that he cares more about winning the election than in governing the country. Palin is not qualified to be President; therefore, she is not qualified to be Vice President. "

MarkMiwords 10:55 PM:
" I agree with Madison Jay Hamilton. I was insulted that McCain thought we would fall for such cheap political pandering. "

Sandra 10:59 PM:
" As for this, "Palin's winking at the camera, "folksy-speak", and condescinding tones, was absolutely insulting." This bothers you? But you probably find it quite all right when Obama actually changes his accent depending on what audience he is addressing. And do not deny he does this. We have noticed it so many times in our household we play the "What part of America is he from now?" game. " "

NVR-Dan Ross wrote on Oct 3, 2008 12:02 PM:

" hawkins707Oct 2, 11:06 PM:
" I think Palin was terrific on the big stage, and did everything she should have done. It is nice to finally see a real person up at one of those podiums.

Biden looks like a used car salesman who isn't being totally honest whenever he turns on that smile. "

yamamama Oct 2, 2008 11:17 PM:
" Palin did well. Biden was outstanding. "

Hear Ye wrote on Oct 2, 2008 11:17 PM:
" I didn't have any problems with Palins attitude or demeanor. My problem is that she didn't say anything. Avoiding questions and just spewing talking points doesn't get it done. Like most people are saying, this was good for her base but did nothing for the indies. She was outmatched and it showed terribly. Good damage control after the Couric debacle but did very little if anything for the McCain campaign. They are much better off with McCain who can talk about the issues with some detail and knowledge, not index cards. "

anticommie wrote on Oct 2, 2008 11:50 PM:
" Palin did a GREAT job, and as I expected Biden just regurgitated the same old left wing socialist agenda. There was a great portion about wealth distribution that I cant get off my mind. Biden said (about the wealth distribution of Obama's policies) "where I come from we call it fairness." Really? How is that? Take money from rich and give to the poor? Looks like we have Robin Hood in our midst! Fairness? Give me a break! This is socialism 101. Tax fairness would be an even percentage across the board. No politician will ever say it though. I think Palin did an exceptional job. Biden.... "JUST MORE OF THE SAME" left wing mantra. " "

NVR-Dan Ross wrote on Oct 3, 2008 12:04 PM:

" here's more:
vocal-de-local wrote on Oct 2, 2008 11:57 PM:
" Biden did very well and appeared with both warmth and in depth knowledge on subject matter. Palin presented herself as very down to earth and played heavily on her role as a mother. They both did well but Biden did remarkably better with his clear and well spoken responses.

Palin reminded me a little too much of someone who was doing a speech for a PTA fundraiser. She does appear likable, but not particularly knowledgeable. I'm not sure we would be taken seriously on the world stage with McCain/Palin. "

pbsm777 wrote on Oct 2, 2008 11:59 PM:
" Hello Michigan... Can you say CUT AND RUN?

The Hardest economically hit state in the country and McCain just gave up on them. See Ya.

I guess you'll just have to pull yourself up by your own boot straps. We just gave all the money to Wall Street. Don't worry, it will trickle down.... "

comment wrote on Oct 3, 2008 12:01 AM:
" I liked Palin's "John McCain knows how to win a war" statement. Really? Did we win in Vietnam?

If Palin represents people like me then I must be much dumber than I realized. " "

NVR-Dan Ross wrote on Oct 3, 2008 12:06 PM:

" and still more:
myword wrote on Oct 3, 2008 12:42 AM:
" Biden won, no doubt about it. He had answers, very specific answers while Palin was the master debater of avoiding direct answers. When she was stumped, she seemed to go back to the same topics "to make a point". Many times she looked like a student, standing and staring straight ahead reciting a memorized assignment. Totally unimpressed with her, although she didn't do as bad as expected. Lets not forget her responses when doing a one on one interview with no hint of the upcoming question or topic....now that is scary stuff. She is way out of her league and brings nothing but a skirt to the Republican party....oh, and lipstick. "

vanappan wrote on Oct 3, 2008 6:13 AM:
" Sarah Palin proved that she is the real deal. 5 weeks on the campaign trail, thrust onto the national stage.
She was warm, fresh, funny, confident, energetic, personable, relentless, and on message. She roasted Obama’s flip-flops on the surge and tea-with-dictators declarations, dinged Biden’s bash-Bush rhetoric, challenged the blame-America defeatism of the Left, and exuded the sunny optimism that energized the base in the first place.

She showed what a hachet job Gibson and Kadie did one her with the cut and paste interviews we all know they’re trying to win the election for the Obama

She beat a man who has spent his entire adult life on the political stage, run for president twice, had chaired the Senate Judiciary Committee.

Sarah Palin looked presidential.

Joe Biden looked old and tired. " "

NVR-Dan Ross wrote on Oct 3, 2008 12:07 PM:

" yep, more coming:
Hear Ye wrote on Oct 3, 2008 7:09 AM:
" Chronicle editorial nails it:

*"Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin exceeded the low expectations for her performance in the vice presidential debate. She did not, however, demonstrate the depth on domestic or foreign matters that Americans should want and expect from someone who would be a heartbeat away from the presidency.
Delaware Sen. Joe Biden clearly outperformed her by more frequently addressing the questions that were asked and demonstrating a mastery of the issues that will confront the administration that takes office in January 2009.

Palin signaled early on that she would approach the debate on her own terms. She said she would "talk straight to the American people" instead of answering questions in a way desired by moderator Gwen Ifill or opponent Biden. In other words, she would duck the questions she did not like.

And duck she did, repeatedly. ...Palin exuded a folksy charm - offering a "shout-out" to third-graders watching the debate for extra credit and scolding Biden with a "say it ain't so, Joe" for his repeated shots at President Bush's policies - but she was no match for Biden on substance. One of the most dramatic examples was when the subject turned to the Middle East, and viewers could contrast her "I love Israel" talking point with Biden's textured and detailed analysis of the dynamics of the region and what is required to defend Israel's interest.

As striking as the contrast was, it was telling that Biden - unlike McCain, in his debate with Barack Obama - never felt compelled to deride his debate opponent as inexperienced or naive or reckless.

It wasn't necessary. Americans could see the difference for themselves." * " "

NVR-Dan Ross wrote on Oct 3, 2008 12:08 PM:

" Sandra wrote on Oct 3, 2008 8:15 AM:
" Hmmmm...I need to point out to Myword that saying this..."Lets not forget her responses when doing a one on one interview with no hint of the upcoming question or topic...." Is quite misleading. Neither candidate knew what the questions or topic would be last night, and both answered off the cuff. Biden was more knowledgable about how the insiders in Washington worked, and foreign affairs. Just like McCain was more knowledgable than Obama on foreign affairs. Why would that surprise anyone? I feel as if I watched a whole different debate than many off the commenters here. Palin was knowledgable. She was articulate, and she put out more information than Obama did against McCain. Biden certainly smoked Obama's presentation. I also feel the need to point out criticism for being "Folksy", etc. is pretty lame in the realm of criticism. I think for someone who stepped out of Alaska and into the national spotlight 5 weeks ago, she did an amazing job. What a quick study this woman is. Imagine where she will be 5 weeks from now?...Maybe helping McCain in the White House?
The man she ran against in the race for govenor, and defeated, was singing her praises last night. He said he realiized just how wrong he was about her. During the govenor's race he said many of the same things people are saying about her right now.
He said, " I was wrong. She was a great govenor, and will make a great vicepresident." " "

NVR-Dan Ross wrote on Oct 3, 2008 12:10 PM:

" bloodagar wrote on Oct 3, 2008 7:24 AM:
" You know I am STILL really on the fence with this election!
Both of them were great, both of them tried spinning senate votes...ugh. I like all the candidates...I'd like to hear more from their constituents.

Vote check is needed in this article!

Napagrrl:
I cringed as well when she said "Nucular" rather than "Nuclear". Please tell me it is an accent thing rather than poor pronunciation! " "

NVR-Dan Ross wrote on Oct 3, 2008 12:11 PM:

" this is the last one, all caught up:
boonedoc wrote on Oct 3, 2008 11:23 AM:
" I would like to say that I am amazed at the lack of intelligence and/or common sense of our voters given all of the support that is being extended to a woman who is clearly unqualified and out of her league, but then I remind myself that these same voters gave GW a second term.

The one thing I really admire about a lot of the voters that are currently leaning towards Obama is that they didn't all start out that way. Some had to overcome Clinton's defeat, and those folks didn't automatically move over the Obama camp. In fact, I would guess that a large majority of those folks initally leaned more toward McCain than they did Obama but made the effort to do their homework to conclude that in the end, Obama was the better choice.

I don't get that same sense of open mindedness from the McCain supporters. It appears that they are hell bent on electing him simply because he is a Republican, not necessarily because they support, or even understand his position on the issues that are plaguing this country. How can any intelligent person stand up and say that Palin would make an effective VP? While I think she is a fresh, colorful and animated individual who survived the debate, there is no other basis in which to support her for VP. My 15 year old daughter is also all of those things (except a debate survivor) but that does not qualify her to be our VP. There is a need and a place for politicians like Palin, but not as our VP.....at least not now. " "

cab e-girl wrote on Oct 3, 2008 12:12 PM:

" Palins "untruths":
1. Palin mistakenly claimed that troop levels in Iraq had returned to “pre-surge” levels. Levels are gradually coming down but current plans would have levels higher than pre-surge numbers through early next year, at least.
2. Palin repeated a false claim that Obama once voted in favor of higher taxes on “families” making as little as $42,000 a year. He did not. The budget bill in question called for an increase only on singles making that amount, but a family of four would not have been affected unless they made at least $90,000 a year.
3. Palin claimed McCain’s health care plan would be “budget neutral,” costing the government nothing. Independent budget experts estimate McCain's plan would cost tens of billions each year, though details are too fuzzy to allow for exact estimates.
4.Palin wrongly claimed that “millions of small businesses” would see tax increases under Obama’s tax proposals. At most, several hundred thousand business owners would see increases. "

Hear Ye wrote on Oct 3, 2008 12:22 PM:

" Cab-e-girl-

Where did you get that cut and paste job? They refute statements by saying "not true". That's hard hitting evidence lol.

Listen people, Palin didn't humiliate herself. Mission success. I'm afraid though that I can't take anyone serious who would try to argue that she actually won this debate

Also, whoever was talking about polls is confused. Biden has won every poll that I have heard of thus far:

CNN/Opinion Research- Biden 51 Palin 36
CBS- Biden 46 Palin 21
Fox -Biden 61 Palin 39 "

sdnapa wrote on Oct 3, 2008 12:23 PM:

" i don't get why some of you are so offended by pronunciation. you say tomato, i say tomaato....what's the bfd on that? "

Sandra wrote on Oct 3, 2008 12:29 PM:

" How about some balance?

Biden complained about "economic policies of the last eight years" that led to "excessive deregulation."
THE FACTS: Biden voted for the1999 deregulation blamed for part of the financial crisis today. The law was widely backed by Republicans as well as by Democratic President Clinton, who argues it has stopped the crisis today from being worse.

Biden warned that Republican presidential candidate John McCain's $5,000 tax credit to help families buy health coverage "will go straight to the insurance company."
THE FACTS: That's not surprising — the money is meant to pay for health insurance.

Biden said McCain supports tax breaks for oil companies, and "wants to give them another $4 billion tax cut."
THE FACTS: Biden is repeating a favorite saw of the Obama campaign, and it's misleading. McCain supports a cut in income taxes for all corporations, and doesn't single out any one industry for that benefit.

BIDEN: As a matter of fact, John recently wrote an article in a major magazine saying that he wants to do for the health care industry — deregulate it and let the free market move — like he did for the banking industry."
THE FACTS: Biden and Obama have been perpetuating this distortion of what McCain wrote in an article . McCain, only referred to deregulation when saying people should be allowed to buy health insurance across state lines.

BIDEN: The charge is absolutely not true. Barack Obama did not vote to raise taxes."
THE FACTS: Obama voted yes on a nonbinding budget resolution that assumed that President Bush's tax cuts would expire, as scheduled, in 2011. If that actually happened, it could mean higher taxes for people making as little as about $42,000. "

reason-ator wrote on Oct 3, 2008 12:35 PM:

" I just watched an older VP debate, from when a diiferent party was in power.

The format is the same. If you're NOT in power, you blame and attack the party that is in power. If you ARE in power, try and divert the other party.

Nothing is changing here, people. We are going to elect our next president based on who they are and how well they can criticize their opponent. We'll have no clue how they're going to run the country, just how well they can practice their rehearsed attacks. Complicating our vision is how the media seems to have taken sides.

What a great country we've become. "

14obama wrote on Oct 3, 2008 12:38 PM:

" I sure wouldn't vote for her because she said she's a "born again" Christian. That's what Bush said and look what happened. I think she's a robotic "talking head" who should stay home and be a mother to her helpless kids. She's very good at memorizing. As far as a VP,I say "No Way" ! "

pbsm777 wrote on Oct 3, 2008 12:41 PM:

" I knew it was going to be interesting when the first thing she said was "I'm going to answer the questions I want to and talk about what I want to talk about regardless of the question." Wow - the rules don't apply to you. Translation: If I don't know the answer I'll just change the topic.

She had so many of these rehearsed talking points that's why she didn't bother answering half the questions. "I love Israel" quote repeated 3 different times - even when the question had nothing to do with Israel. That was good for a laugh.

Before the debate, Meg Stapleton, Palin's spokesperson, was asked by Nora Roberts on CNN why Palin could not answer the questions Couric asked regarding what newspapers she read and Supreme Court decisions she didn't like -aside from Roe V. Wade, her response was this: "Sarah always thinks ahead to what the next question is going to be so she can't answer what she was just asked. She used to be a reporter, you know, so she is always thinking ahead. That's why she doesn't answer questions - she's always thinking ahead to the next question." I saw this interview myself yesterday. You could actually hear laughter on the set because the reaction was "What?" You can't answer a question because you are always thinking ahead. Brilliant strategy...Use that excuse next time your boss asks you a question. Just ignore the question by saying I'm thinking ahead to your next question so I can ignore that one, too.

Say it ain't so, Sarah, doggone it! "

tiredofcomplainingnapkins wrote on Oct 3, 2008 12:51 PM:

" After watching the debates last night I was waiting for someone to jump out and reveal Sarah Palin as the VP was a big joke on the American People. Talk about somebody who has no idea whats going on. She's just a living puppet, I couldn't hear an honest thought out of her, seemed to me she was just resaying what someone else told her to say. Godforbid they win and something happends to Mcain, Does anybody really think the rest of the world would take her serious. Shes the governor Of Alaska. Alaska barely qualifies as a state of this country, she knows nothing of illegal immigration because she doesn't have 1 million illegals jumping into her state every year. She doesn't know about the hardships of American cities that are losing thousands of jobs from factories leaving. She doesn't know the trouble of innercities where crime and drugs run rampant. Shes been tucked away in her little corner of the world completly out of touch with the real USA. Would people be ok with a governor from Hawaii being VP, I dont think so. So ask yourself, whats the difference between Hawaii and Alaska "

suze wrote on Oct 3, 2008 1:01 PM:

" I thought they both did well, but I have not been moved into the Palin Fan Club. Biden showed his years of experience and was substantive and precise in his answers.
I find Palin's constant plastered smile disconcerting. Would you buy from a salesman who never stopped smiling? Governor Palin's statement that we can drill our way to energy independence and 'win' the war in Iraq were glitzy sound bites aimed at "Six Pack Joe," because sadly, he is going to believe it. If she truly believes it, then I am really scared. "

anticommie wrote on Oct 3, 2008 1:18 PM:

" boonedoc wrote:

" I would like to say that I am amazed at the lack of intelligence and/or common sense of our voters given all of the support that is being extended to a woman who is clearly unqualified and out of her league, but then I remind myself that these same voters gave GW a second term.

UNQUALIFIED? Look at resume of your candidate!! The man was a community organizer?! A sate senator? A US Senator for whtat, 147 days before he started running for president? Gimme a break! That argument is the worst in this debate! I agree that the woman could have more experience, but at least she has EXECUTIVE experience. Something no other candidate has!! Enough with the double standard. "

cab e-girl wrote on Oct 3, 2008 1:21 PM:

" Suze: Sadly you have been listening to the main stream media when it comes to Iraq instead of finding out what is really going on over there. "

geostationary orbit wrote on Oct 3, 2008 2:11 PM:

" even from way up here I could clearly see that Palin was nervous and cute. She looked hot in her all black outfit. Wow! What a looker...

Oh, you asked who won not who looked the best...

JOE BIDEN ran away with the Victory!

Even I could see that from way up here! "

pbsm777 wrote on Oct 3, 2008 2:21 PM:

" Suze: Well we have no idea what media Palin listens to or reads because she can't name any....
Please direct us to the non-mainstream media that you are getting your facts from so we can find out the real story. Do tell.
This way we ALL have the "facts." "

pbsm777 wrote on Oct 3, 2008 2:30 PM:

" I'm sorry,

cab e-girl could YOU please tell us who you get your news/information from so we can all be informed. "

Dwayne wrote on Oct 3, 2008 3:05 PM:

" 14obama wrote on Oct 3, 2008 12:38 PM:
" I sure wouldn't vote for her because she said she's a "born again" Christian. That's what Bush said and look what happened."

Yeah, them thar born-agin's are really annoying, ain't they... ;-) "

AmCan Mom wrote on Oct 3, 2008 3:46 PM:

" I feal that both Biden and Palin performed well, but I would like to point out that the *only* time either one of them seemed to take the wind out of the other's sails was when Palin refuted one of Biden's comments on I believe Pakistan. Go to the network's website (I think it was ABC?) and find the "watch entire VP debate". It is broken up into 14 segments of about 5 minutes each. The segment I refer to was #9. "

cab e-girl wrote on Oct 3, 2008 4:25 PM:

" pbsm777: When it comes to news about Iraq, I listen to US generals, the correspondents that are in Iraq and returning soldiers that are willing to talk about it. I DON'T listen to the talking airheads. In other words I think for myself with news that is not spun by the media. "

pbsm777 wrote on Oct 3, 2008 5:17 PM:

" So cab e-girl, are these direct conversations you have with them or they come to you via a media source: interview on Fox? CBS? Newspaper? Unless it is a direct conversation, you are getting a sound bite or newsclip that comes from a question posed by some media outlet or person. So where do you get it from? "

misfit wrote on Oct 3, 2008 6:20 PM:

" All Palin did was recite a bunch of memorized talking points. She has no substance, no breadth of knowledge to back up anything she says. The format was conducive to her style, limiting comments to 90 seconds. If she had to go into any depth on a topic, she would have delivered her usual blather leaving us all saying, "Huh" again.
This woman, as good as she is at what she does, does not make her qualified to be VP. McCain is ill and she is next in line. You people are wack if you can honestly justify her in that position. And I might ad, anti American! "

misfit wrote on Oct 3, 2008 6:27 PM:

" Sandra...the problem is that, the $5000 that McCain will be "Giving" us is supposed to take the place of the $12,000 health insurance that we will be losing from our employers. Hmmmm. "

misfit wrote on Oct 3, 2008 6:32 PM:

" What was really disgusting was to see Sean Hannity gushing (???) all over himself. He could hardly contain himself just because Sarah was able to string a few sentances together last night. This man has no self respect. I know he was that little nerdy kid who always took his ball and went home or, knocked over the checker board and then claimed, he won! He's a riot! "

Joe B wrote on Oct 3, 2008 6:44 PM:

" Well the wheels didn't come off. This was a presidential debate. Sara, presidentially just doesn't fit. "

Sandra wrote on Oct 3, 2008 7:19 PM:

" Misfit, "What was really disgusting was to see Sean Hannity gushing (???) all over himself." I know what you mean...Kind of the same thing as Chris Mathews gettings tingles up his leg when he hears Obama...... "

suze wrote on Oct 3, 2008 7:48 PM:

" Cab e-girl, you could not be more wrong in your retort that I get all my news from main stream media. I watch very little TV, but I read widely; and the Internet gives access to International publications which seem to have a more balanced and less partisan viewpoint. I can honestly say that until last night watching the debate, I have never watched a single episode of American Idol. "

dellasumbrella wrote on Oct 3, 2008 9:48 PM:

" All the way through the debate, I kept thinking, Republicans will say Palin won; Democrats will say Biden won.
So there it is.

Palin delivered the Republican talking points well and managed to put Biden on the defensive a bit; Biden did a good job of correcting her factual errors and stating Democrats' position on issues. They were both pretty gracious to each other, except for the attacks, which is to be expected. Biden, I thought, came across as knowledgeable; Palin came across as engaging.

But what's the thing about Palin making her own rules for the debate? She had some things she knew, and decided to stick to that. Forget what the country wants to know she knows. And, then, it seems, making her own rules for the VP position as well? On the coattails of Cheney, for sure. "

PlasticPinkFlamingo wrote on Oct 3, 2008 10:06 PM:

" Biden sounds like a slick used car salesman, always saying what he thinks the customer wants to hear, and the truth ain't in it. He has been rejected as a presidential candidate so that really calls Obama's judgment into question for picking Biden for his VP candidate.

For those of you who alway jump up and down shouting "talking points", all you have to do is really pay attention and you will see that the Dems do the same thing. So what?

Palin wasn't perfect but she didn't come across like she was selling me something. And if she doesn't have all the answers today, I know that she is a fast study and will be up to speed quickly. Even Clinton's people admit Bill didn't know beans about foreign affairs when he won the nomination, and he had to get the crash course. I think he slept through that class, but that's a subject for another thread. "

PlasticPinkFlamingo wrote on Oct 3, 2008 10:27 PM:

" misfit - it's all in the point of view. I think Olberman is a silly east end of a donkey facing west. I thought what he was doing was supposed to be a joke but it seems he is shoveling out stuff for the hardcore lefty crowd, who seem to think it is truth and wisdom. Now that's what I call disgusting!

I don't have a problem with news organizations editorializing for their candidate. That is what they should do and I expect it. But I do have a problem when they try to pass off rotting garbage as gourmet food. I miss the old-fashioned journalism, where the news was reported as news and the columnists and editors did the opinion pieces. Those were the days of the great newspapers. I had a morning newspaper route in a major metro area (back in those days we had to watch out for flamingo-eating dinosaurs) and even as an elementary school kid I couldn't wait to get home to read the 'Republican' newspaper and the 'Democrat' newspaper editorials. Ever since the 60s reporters seem to think they are editors and opinion makers. They are not. They merely have a highly inflated opinion of themselves.

The internet is even worse. All kinds of wrapped garbage is thrown out every day with no factual basis. It used to be that everyone believed what they read in the newspapers, then TV took over, and now cable news and the internet media is supposed to be like holy scripture. But in fact, the opposite has happened. Each one, in turn, has become more separated from reality. "

River70 wrote on Oct 3, 2008 11:43 PM:

" Sarah Palin is sarcastic, mocking total no nothing. She won that debate? Give me a break. She set the tone with her speech at the convention. Listening to the talking points last night, watching her ignore the debate questions just made her look clueless. I am surprised she did not regale us with her notion that man and dinosaurs coexisted. "

Hear Ye wrote on Oct 3, 2008 11:51 PM:

" PlasticPinkFlamingo wrote on Oct 3, 2008 10:06 PM:

" He has been rejected as a presidential candidate so that really calls Obama's judgment into question for picking Biden for his VP candidate."

You sure you want to go with this argument. Half of me thinks your opinions are better than this but... "

pbsm777 wrote on Oct 4, 2008 12:27 AM:

" Hear ye, please explain how Palin is qualified to be president if she was called on. If you say Obama is unquaified step up and and explain SPECIFICALLY how Palin is qualified. Criticism is a two way street. No talking points allowed. "

Hear Ye wrote on Oct 4, 2008 7:48 AM:

" Pbsm777-

I'm going to go ahead and assume that your statement was meant to be directed at someone else "

Rocco wrote on Oct 4, 2008 8:11 AM:

" Dear Spsm777,
Are you a natural born citizen who is at least 35 years old? Yes? Well then you and I are both qualified to be President of the United States. And given the dismal performance of our last few chief executives, could we really be all that worse? What makes Gov. Sarah Palin supremely qualified to be my President is the fact that she represents ME! Her education is similar to mine. Her recent tax returns are almost carbon copies of mine. Her family struggles and triumphs mirror many of mine own, and she shares my values of self-determination and hard work. She’s also very different…there is no way I could ever hope to have the will and courage to after just 6 weeks on the job to climb aboard the world stage and exude such confidence, knowledge, grace, patriotism and love for all the people of the United States. Is she perfect? No. Is she she commited to honestly watching out for my country and my family? Yes...and that's what makes her qualified to be President. "

Sandra wrote on Oct 4, 2008 9:13 AM:

" Rocco, couldn't have said it better. There are so many people complaining about the corruption in D.C. and complaining about the need for a change. Yet, when given the choice to get someone in there who will not play the D.C. game say, " OMG she is not qualified"....And not only that, they throw out the most vile sexist and narrow minded ctriticisms that would send their little hearts into cardiac arrest if similar thiing were said about their candidate.
She scares people? I can only shake my head in wonder. Sarah Palin scares people, and Obama does not scare these same people.

This man came from nowhere and shot into the spotlight like a rocket. Who is the financial backer behind the packaging of Obama? Where is the concern over the template he has set up for his "Civillian Corps"? The man certainly says all the right things to make the true believer into a true follower. But there is no depth behind the words. There is nothing to look at to say...Yes, that is who this man is because in the past he did this, or did that....that's the problem...there is very little political history to look at. And what there is pretty much shows a man who went along with the status quo of his party. We have to take the man at his word.
Palin has a record to look at. She has gone against her own party. She has worked with anyone who will help her get the job done. She impresses me in many ways by her actions.
Obama only has words. "

Sandra wrote on Oct 4, 2008 9:19 AM:

" Come on Hear Ye...Here is your chance to play devil's advocate....
And while you are at it, I am curious...could pbsm777 explain how Obama is qualified?

Misfit, you are speaking to someone who has always paid all of her own medical insurance premiums. I am sure there are many out there just like me. "

geostationary orbit wrote on Oct 4, 2008 9:20 AM:

" If you people want FAIR and BALANCED new then you should never get it from American media source; tune in to the BBC World News for a more Fair and Balanced reporting look angle.

Even from way up here, eye can see that is true...

you funny people make me giggle... "

anticommie wrote on Oct 4, 2008 10:25 AM:

" Sandra:

The left is turned upside down the pick of Sarah Palin they dont see their double standard when it comes to Obama's qualifications. They dont realize that Palin is VICE PRESIDENT. Their candidate is the most under qualified candidate in our history. I've said it before, Palin could have more experience, but at least she has had executive. Obama supporters will even go as far to say that the past 18 months of Obama's campaign is enough to make the man President!! Absurd! I think Michael Savage put it right, "Liberalism is a Mental Disorder." "

dellasumbrella wrote on Oct 4, 2008 10:51 AM:

" Why the pronunciation of “nuclear” is important: For me, it’s an obsessive-compulsive thing. My mother was a stickler about grammar and pronunciation. Whenever I hear a word mispronounced, I find myself having to correct it in my mind. Sometimes I have to do this more than once, sometimes out loud. I know, crazy…which is why I was glad to see the mental health pork attached to our bailout bill (just kidding). So you can imagine, for the last eight years, how time-consuming that’s been for me. Every time I hear Bush speculating about someone obtaining NUKULAR capabilities, I have to mutter “nuclear, nuclear, nuclear” in order to feel okay about listening to the rest of whatever nonsense he’s saying. And if I’m driving, I have to shout it out to prevent my reaction from turning into road rage – “Nuclear! NUclear!! N-U-C-L-E-A-R!!!!!
I know, crazy. But I am my mother’s daughter. And my father’s, and he was a physicist who worked on the Manhattan Project. So I don’t take nuclear lightly. As most of us know, the word comes from the word “nucleus”, which means, sort of, the central portion of things like cells and atoms.
I can only imagine that Bush and Palin don’t really know much about cells and atoms and think the word comes from the word “homunculus”, that miniature man-like entity that, back in the day (way back), was thought to be given life immediately at the moment of conception.
Okay, forget all that. Just joking.
But the nails on blackboard feeling I get every time I hear that word pronounced the way Palin pronounced it is no joke. I can’t take 4 more years. Good thing Mc/P aren’t getting elected, or I’d have to work on my exit strategy. "

littlered56 wrote on Oct 4, 2008 11:19 AM:

" Palins defination of the responsiblites of the V.P are as Cheney has done during W's term. The consitution is quite clear on what the responsiblities are. Senator Biden was 100% correct in what he said about this.
Palin did not answer the questions and changed the subject to avoid answering. No doubt Carl Rove coached her. No doubt America has grown tired of the Rove, Cheney and W's blatent violation of constitutional law. "

John Richards wrote on Oct 4, 2008 11:49 AM:

" Did you notice how Biden repeated himself several times, with such mantra slogans as "Global warming is man-made." He offered no defense of that statement. "

John Richards wrote on Oct 4, 2008 11:52 AM:

" Mispronouncing the word 'nuclear' is not a fatal error. As I recall, even such a revered president as JFK mispronounced it. "

John Richards wrote on Oct 4, 2008 12:05 PM:

" omment wrote " I liked Palin's "John McCain knows how to win a war" statement. Really? Did we win in Vietnam?

That's a disingenuous statement. McCain was not responsible for the conduct of the Vietnam war. However, his strong support for the 'surge' in Iraq has proven to be correct, and even Obama (johnny-come-lately) admits that now. "

John Richards wrote on Oct 4, 2008 12:23 PM:

" " 14obama wrote " I sure wouldn't vote for her because she said she's a "born again" Christian. That's what Bush said and look what happened."
That makes about as much sense as saying that Palin is a white Anglo-Saxon just like Bush, and therefore can't be trusted. "

mamyt wrote on Oct 4, 2008 3:00 PM:

" The reason it is important to pronounce words correctly is because that is how they are pronounced. Those of you who think it is not a big deal how Palin or Bush pronounce nuclear, would you feel the same way if Obama said "I want to ax you a question"?

Mispronouncing words makes you look stupid and the last thing we need on the global stage is a leader who will continue to make Americans look like idiots. "

pbsm777 wrote on Oct 4, 2008 3:29 PM:

" Sandra,
Why I 'fear' Palin:

1) Gov. Palin is on record as wanting Roe V Wade overturned. She does not believe in choice for Rape and Incest. Fact.

2) In the VP debate she specifically said the role of the VP should be expanded into working with the Legislative branch besides voting in the senate on a tie. Like VP Cheney has attempted to do. Read Artcile 1 of the US Constitution. That's the REAL Law.

3) In these times of global conflict, mounting pressures across America, there is not time for "on the job training." The argument cannot be made both ways that Obama's lack of experience (although that is only believed by a select few) does not qualify him and Palin's lack of expereince is refreshing therefore she's a better choice. Both have extremely experienced partners in McCain and Biden so the point is moot.

4) Aw shucks, folksy demeanor, if real, works great on the PTA but try that at the G8 Summit or Pakistan.

5) I do not question her patriotism nor her energy and enthusiasm. But those traits should be a given when running for high political office. If you have to brag about character traits that should already be expected - I guess you don't have anything else to talk about.

6) Unfortunately, it is my belief that McCain picked her solely strictly for sexist reasons. He wanted a younger, female mom to attract the Hillary vote. Qualifications be dam**d. If he truly wanted a qualified female that has Real Executive experience, worked in a broad range of government positions including Cabinet level,and ran the Red Cross, he should have picked Barbara Dole.

That's why Palin/McCain scares me. "

comment wrote on Oct 4, 2008 4:33 PM:

" Those of you Republicans who like to point out Obama's inexperience are probably the same people who voted for Bush in 2000. Bush entered politics in 1994 when he became governor of Texas. Al Gore had been in politics since 1976. Did any of you vote for the "more experienced" candidate? Why not? "

steph wrote on Oct 4, 2008 4:48 PM:

" Obama has a LOT of experience voting "present" in the Senate.

WHILE he was simultaneously running for president.

I'm just saying. "

anticommie wrote on Oct 4, 2008 4:49 PM:

" Comment:

that argument is still an absurd one. Bush was a GOVERNOR of a state. EXECUTIVE branch of government. Obama has been a senator for 147 days before running for president. And Bush is finally getting out of office, get over it. NO MORE SOCIALISTS! NO FOR OBAMA! "

dellasumbrella wrote on Oct 4, 2008 4:55 PM:

" I love/hate/cringe at this quote:

” Uh, nukuler weaponry, of course, would be the be-all, end-all of just too many people and too many parts of our planet so those dangerous regimes again cannot be allowed to acquire nukuler weapons, period.”

Then she says, "Can I talk about Afghanistan instead?"

I just watched the clip of that part again. Yeah, she didn't win. "

comment wrote on Oct 4, 2008 4:58 PM:

" anticommie, try harder. Obama had been serving in the Illinois Senate since 1996 and was sworn in as a U.S. Senator on January 4, 2005. He's been in politics longer than Bush had when he was elected in 2000. I'm still wondering why you didn't vote for Gore if you value experience? "

dellasumbrella wrote on Oct 4, 2008 5:10 PM:

" Good comment, comment.

So anticommie -- is it because he's inexperienced, or because you've slapped a "socialist" sign on his back that you won't vote for Obama?

So we should only allow governors to be president now? They're the only ones qualified? What about McCain? Oh, that's right, he was a POW in a war we lost. He knows how to win wars. And he's a Washington Insider. Oops; we're trying to get rid of those, aren't we? And what if Bush, who was a governor, decides we should socialize banks? Using taxpayer money, Because capitalism didn't work?
Consistency, consistency, please! "

Hear Ye wrote on Oct 4, 2008 5:23 PM:

" Steph-

You're really really wrong. First of all you can't vote "present" in the Senate. Also McCain is far and away the leader of not even showing up to vote. He has missed 420 votes as a member of the 110th congress. That's over 64% of all votes that have taken place for those of you keeping score at home. "

pbsm777 wrote on Oct 4, 2008 5:43 PM:

" Steph - at least he was present. Until the bailout McCain had not voted - period - on a senate vote since early APRIL of this year. Not Once. Look it up.

In the CURRENT session of the 110th Congress:
Sen. John McCain (R-AZ)
Representing: Arizona
Votes: 420 votes missed (64.1%), 235 votes cast (Leads the Senate in missed votes. )Fact

Sen. Barack Obama (D-IL)
Representing: Illinois
Votes: 303 votes missed (46.3%), 352 votes cast (Ranks 3rd in missed votes.) Fact
Source: 110th US Congress Voting Record

Where's he been that he can't even show up to vote Present? Before he was running he wasn't there very often. You can't blame it on campaigning because his opponnent works at the same place he does... For now. wink wink. "

comment wrote on Oct 4, 2008 8:53 PM:

" Thanks, dellasumbrella.

I just want to add that anyone can vote for whomever they want for whatever reason they choose. If these people want to vote for McCain because they feel Obama is inexperienced then that's their right, I'm just trying to point out the fact that they're hypocrites if they're the same people who voted for Bush in 2000. If you agree with McCain on more issues than you agree with Obama, then say so. "

anticommie wrote on Oct 4, 2008 9:22 PM:

" Comment:

A State senator WOW! That's impressive! Sounds about as equivalent as, say, a mayor of a small town. To me they are both under qualified for the positions they are seeking. Gore? He's as bad as the rest of the Dems. The reason I am talking about his experience, is because there is a double standard when it comes to Obama.

dellasumbrella, You are right! I am saying Obama is a socialist, so is the majority of the democrats. Just look at their policies. Biden even said that the wealth distribution that he and Obama call for is "fair" from where he comes from. Universal healthcare, paid for by the taxpayer. As for the bailout? I am in the majority of Americans that hate the whole thing. We just witnessed the largest government takeover of private business ever. It makes me sick to my stomach. Even the majority of Repubs voted for this thing, even McCain. Oh by the way Capitalism DOES work, it just gets messed up when greedy lobbying groups like ACORN (a group your boy Obama worked for) pressure lawmakers to force banks to give loans to under qualified customers, because its only "fair" that the "poor" people buy their own homes too. These people being so hungry for self satisfaction, they dont READ the terms and sign anyway. No the rest of us that knew better are paying for everyone else's mistakes. "

a teacher wrote on Oct 4, 2008 10:16 PM:

" Gotta love anticommie, it's all those poor people's fault. They were so stupid to actually think that the American Dream applied to them also.

It certainly isn't the fault of financial salespeople who ignored the facts and gave out loans anyway.

Not the fault of realtors selling homes they knew that the buyers can't afford.

It's not the fault of business people repackaging bad debt so it can be sold to the unsuspecting.

It's not the fault of a government that has an "anything goes" in business philosophy.

For 38 years wealth has been redistributed from the bottom to the top. That kind of wealth redistribution is of no concern to you. Socializing business loss is not a problem.

According to you this is all the fault of the greedy aspirations of the poor. I can't wait to see the backs of right wing. "

comment wrote on Oct 4, 2008 11:17 PM:

" anticommie, 8 years as a State Senator is just as impressive as, say, 4 years as Governor of Texas.

anticommie wrote- "The reason I am talking about his experience, is because there is a double standard when it comes to Obama."
Where's this double standard you speak of?

One more thing. As I mentioned earlier, Obama was sworn in as senator on January 4, 2005. He announced his candidacy for President on February 10, 2007. That's a fact. Where you got the 147 days number is beyond me. "

misfit wrote on Oct 4, 2008 11:43 PM:

" oooh Sandra, stop! "

misfit wrote on Oct 4, 2008 11:47 PM:

" I do recall McCain being "REJECTED" as a presidential candidate as well. The Republicans could have done better this year with both of their choices. "

misfit wrote on Oct 4, 2008 11:51 PM:

" If the surge worked so well, why are we still in Iraq at the tune of 12 billion per month? When does this, whatever you call it, end? Can't we just say "We win" and leave. Will that make you guys feel better...just say we won for God's sake and the sake of others and get out! Otherwise, those of you who support his mess, go on over yourselves and fight it. That would be the noble thing to do. "

misfit wrote on Oct 5, 2008 12:16 AM:

" Sandra, I am soooo happy for you, that you have been fortunate enough to be able to pay for your own insurance premiums. Good for you. I suppose that entitles you to feel that you are better than anyone else who couldn't possibly afford them. It's a shame that can't just feel more of a......let's say, personal gratitude for your higher position in life. Do you really believe in God? I suggest you simply, thank him, or her. "

misfit wrote on Oct 5, 2008 12:18 AM:

" And...it's not the fault of the mortgage lenders who thought they would be sitting on more valuble homes once they were foreclosed on. "

comment wrote on Oct 5, 2008 12:34 AM:

" Nevermind that double standard question, anticommie. After reading previous posts I see what you were referencing.

That's the same point I'm trying to bring up. Republicans are saying Obama is a poor choice because he has no experience, but they're the same people who voted for Bush in 2000. There's a double standard there as well. "

anticommie wrote on Oct 5, 2008 8:37 AM:

" The lenders and the congress are guilty of allowing these ludirous mortages to take place, but no one want to blame the individual buyer it seems. I was looking at buying my first home a couple years ago, but decided to hold off until I have a large enough down payment. I refused to fall for weak mortage deals. If it sounds to good to be real, it probably is. It's not my fault people can or cannot afford a home. Why should the rich pay for the poor? "

rage against wrote on Oct 5, 2008 9:11 AM:

" I love it when Americans complain about "paying for" the decisions of someone else. The majority of humanity teeters on the edge of complete and absolute poverty, and Americans whine about paying a few extra dollars on healthcare issues or a mortage crisis. I guess that means a few less McMuffins this week, or maybe a shorter trip to the mall.
Actually, I don't love it when I hear this babble. I'm very annoyed. "

misfit wrote on Oct 5, 2008 9:48 AM:

" anticommie...maybe because the rich often get rich off the backs of the poor. Do ya think??? "

a teacher wrote on Oct 5, 2008 10:28 AM:

" Why should the rich pay for the poor? Because that's how the rich get their money. The fact is that the top 1% makes takes 20% of the national income. The fact is that Americans are working longer and harder than anyone in the world, but we're making less than we were even 30 years ago. Except the top, they're doing great.

You are portraying this crisis as caused by poor, greedy people who dare to want to rise above their station in life (I think that's called the American Dream). Your side has been pushing the "ownership society" for years. Your side screams every time any one suggests regulation. Your side has been busy dismantling all the regulation put in place to prevent a repeat of the Depression.

Your side rails against socialism, but you know what? Socialism looks pretty good when you're on the losing side of class warfare. There are a lot of people on the losing end. "

vocal-de-local wrote on Oct 5, 2008 12:36 PM:

" Very well said, teacher. But I see two sides. One, it's a good idea, especially right now, to redistribute wealth back to middle income workers by taxing income at a higher rate beyond a certain level. That money can be redistributed back into the wages and healthcare benefits of our middle class. Our middle class are the fibers that hold our country together. The wealthy are like accumulating fuzz. Our fabric may appear thicker but the fuzz simply falls off during a washing.

The poor? Many of our poor are capable of working but are enabled by government services. The sell drugs or work for an underground economy making almost zero contribution and then utilize government resources, becoming a huge burden on our middle class. An underground economy is uplifted at the expense of our collective selves, aka our government.

We cannot have this conversation without addressing that very real issue. Not everyone can or wants to make the effort to lift themselves up into the middle class level or they want to do it by cheating. That's reality. It's a big mistake maintaining the dependency of this population from one generation to the next. And I'm not talking about our handicapped and elderly. They deserve the highest level of care. I am a big believer in providing resources to this group. I don't like further enabling the underground enabled though. It's unhealthy. "

rage against wrote on Oct 5, 2008 12:50 PM:

" Very good point teacher,

Socialism is better, in my lower-middle class opinion, than fascism, which is what we have now.

Remember folks fascism is an anti- communist, totalitarian collaboration of government and corporation. Sound anything like the big buyout manauver?

The fascist is concerned primarily with internal cleansing and external expansion.

Next time you hear someone in a suit and tie barking about how our culture has been invaded by impure social constructs, and how we need to maintain and expand our forceful occupation of sovereign nations, let them and others around you know what they are really supporting, fascism.

On another note, what do you guys think about Sarah Palin stating that she is apart of the middle-class? At least Biden had the honesty to admit his wealthy lifestyle. "

rogers wrote on Oct 5, 2008 1:34 PM:

" Actually I too am fed up with leaders incapable of using the English language well. In 2000 I had this discussion with a friend who claimed “America is tired of highly educated leaders they can’t identify with...they like GWB because he sounds like them.” I responded that he would rue the day he made that comment. Just a few days ago he conceded the point.

No GWB doesn’t sound like most of the people I hang with who mostly have some college education (on average about 2 years of college experience - some are HS grads others have a Phd). They don’t say “gooder” (for better), “subliminamal” (for subliminal), “nuke-you-ler” (for nuclear), ad nauseam (Latin). And they are able to use the English language with some degree of competence all without an MBA from Yale.

When I hear Sarah Palin jabber on with “you betcha” (as opposed to yes), my “kidizzs” (as opposed to my kids) and yes, “nuke-you-ler” (for nuclear), I too cringe.

It speaks to a level of education and the ability to communicate well. It’s embarrassing to have leaders who represent us at international meetings where our allies or other foreign dignitaries have a better command of the English language than our highest leaders. Does that not embarrass you? It should! Why do Republicans insist on lowering the bar to accommodate than capable contenders.

Joe Biden was clearly the winner of that debate, if for no other reason, he answered the questions rather than redefine or ignore them as Palin did.

And please - no more “experience” arguments; what we need are leaders with good JUDGEMENT. "

freeport56 wrote on Oct 5, 2008 1:51 PM:

" Each time Senator Biden was on his heels, he looked directly into the camera and lied -- more than a dozen times by our count. He lied about John McCain's record, his own record, and Barak Obama's dangerous policies. Governor Palin showed the American people tonight why a McCain-Palin Administration will bring real reform, leadership, and straight talk to Washington." --Tucker Bounds, spokesman McCain-Palin 2008 "

freeport56 wrote on Oct 5, 2008 2:07 PM:

" often Fascism
A system of government marked by centralization of authority under a dictator, stringent socioeconomic controls, suppression of the opposition through terror and censorship, and typically a policy of belligerent nationalism and racism.
A political philosophy or movement based on or advocating such a system of government.
Oppressive, dictatorial control.

WORD HISTORY:
It is fitting that the name of an authoritarian political movement like Fascism, founded in 1919 by Benito Mussolini, should come from the name of a symbol of authority. The Italian name of the movement, fascismo, is derived from fascio, "bundle, (political) group," but also refers to the movement's emblem, the fasces, a bundle of rods bound around a projecting axe-head that was carried before an ancient Roman magistrate by an attendant as a symbol of authority and power. The name of Mussolini's group of revolutionaries was soon used for similar nationalistic movements in other countries that sought to gain power through violence and ruthlessness, such as National Socialism.

I am sorry, where do the corporations come in??? "

freeport56 wrote on Oct 5, 2008 2:09 PM:

" {{{{DRUDGE POLL}}}} WHO WON THE VICE PRESIDENTIAL DEBATE?...

BIDEN 28% 119,858

PALIN 70% 296,394

NEITHER 2% 7,413

Total Votes: 423,665 "

msdemo wrote on Oct 5, 2008 2:15 PM:

" It appears that McCain/Palin will do anything to win this election. The lastest dirty trick saying that Obama had meetings with the terrorist against the USA when Obama was a child. If we took everyone and lined them up and asked if they had ever serviced on a committee, worked with criminals, know a child molester, we would all be guilty of one of these incidents even if we did not know it. It as if this fellow who is now a college professor has redeemed himself over the years. The dirty tricks award goes to McCain's mouth piece and
holier than thou Palin.....wink wink "

tfytmp wrote on Oct 5, 2008 2:31 PM:

" You don't answer the questions, YOU LOSE THE DABATE. Palin is totally clueless as is anyone who thinks she did well. "

dellasumbrella wrote on Oct 5, 2008 2:31 PM:

" Teacher, vocal-de-local & rage against -- great collection of comments. Add to that Obama's thoughts about dealing with the poor:
"...perhaps the single biggest thing we could do to reduce such poverty is to encourage teenage girls to finish high school and avoid having children out of wedlock." "...also acknowledge that conservatives--and Bill Clinton--were right about welfare as it was previously structured....the old AFDC program sapped people of their initiative and eroded their self-respect. Any strategy to reduce intergenerational poverty has to be centered on work, not welfare--not only because work provides independence and income but also because work provides order, structure, dignity, and opportunities for growth in people's lives." "But if we're serious about breaking the cycle of intergenerational poverty, then many of these women will need some extra help with the basics that those living outside the inner city often take for granted....more police and more effective policing in their neighborhoods, to provide them and their children some semblance of personal security....access to community-based health care, nutritional counseling...treatment for substance abuse....They need a radical transformation of the schools their children attend, and access to affordable child care that will allow them to hold a full-time job or pursue their education.....And in many cases they need help learning to be effective parents." From Audacity of Hope, p. 256-257
Just starters. The Republicans have the same old approach to poverty -- blame and disparage. I'd prefer a more proactive approach of encouragement and empowerment. "

a teacher wrote on Oct 5, 2008 2:50 PM:

" I'm sorry VDL, but I don't agree with:
The poor? Many of our poor are capable of working but are enabled by government services. The sell drugs or work for an underground economy making almost zero contribution and then utilize government resources, becoming a huge burden on our middle class. An underground economy is uplifted at the expense of our collective selves, aka our government. " It simly isn't true. That is right wing propaganda.

Most of the poor are working people with crummy jobs, often more than one crummy job. They are not breaking the law, they are not selling drugs, they are not on welfare. They are trying to get by and just barely keeping their heads above the water (or not in the case of sub prime mortgages). Most of the poor are an illness away from disaster. Or maybe an economic down turn.

The real problem with our economy is that it depends on people buying stuff. Time was that we made the stuff we bought, now the Chinese make it. If people can't afford to buy things, our economy will tank, so helping out the bottom is in the best interest of everyone.

I read an interesting statistic. In the 60's and 70's the top 1% made about 8% of the nations income. Now it's 20%. The last time it was that high was in 1928. "

a teacher wrote on Oct 5, 2008 2:53 PM:

" Sarah Palin MAY have been middle class once upon a time, she certainly comes from middle class roots, but I just read that her net worth is around $3 million. "

misfit wrote on Oct 5, 2008 3:01 PM:

" Sarah Palin's personal wealth exceeds that of Joe Biden. He is the least wealthy of all Senators. "

14obama wrote on Oct 5, 2008 4:24 PM:

" It was very obvious who won the debate ! Must you ask ? "

14obama wrote on Oct 5, 2008 4:28 PM:

" I saw a mention of her tax return on tv. It showed earnings of $126000 and she paid 24k taxes.

I know it's true because I saw it on TV ! "

misfit wrote on Oct 5, 2008 4:42 PM:

" freeport...You quoted Tucker Bounds???
Are you kidding? He is nothing but a cheerleader. He thinks that if he talks loud enough, long enough and speaks over others, that it makes him right. He is always wrong and is unable to admit the truth. Now...who really, is on their heels? It's not Obama/Biden. Saying that McCain and Palin will give us straight talk is a joke that only you CONServatives deceive yourselves into believing. What reform? McCain and Palin are typical politicians and extremely more dangerous than the current administration. Leadership??? Picking a hockey mom with no worldly experience whatsoever as the next in line to be president shows NOthing more than a complete lack of judgement. McCain is just wrong on so many things. I mean look...he's had little over 20 hours of actual flight time as a pilot and crashed 5 planes. Not good odds. He graduated near the bottom of his class and after injuring himself as he ejected from his cockpit in Viet Nam, before he was captured, he admitted that he didn't pay much attention when he was supposed to be learning how to do it properly. He just doesn't care. He sleep walks through his responsiblities and chooses the easy way out. I think he's lax and lazy and he brags about it, laughs about how he was never a good student. This is who you want to lead us. God help us all!!! "

rogers wrote on Oct 5, 2008 5:03 PM:

" freeport56 wrote on Oct 5, 2008 2:09 PM:
" {{{{DRUDGE POLL}}}} WHO WON THE VICE PRESIDENTIAL DEBATE?...

Jeeez! Consider the source freeport! It's a website that appeals to conservatives and there is nothing remotely "scientific" about the poll. It's closer to "Dancing with the Stars" - call in your vote and vote often! FOX "News" did the same thing while other cable news sources tried to use slightly more legitimate polling techniques. Quit looking under every rock trying to find some point of view to bolster your bias. Drudge Report - give us a break! "

CIO wrote on Oct 5, 2008 5:44 PM:

" OK, so they both want the job of VP. But let's think this through. My scary moments comes when I think about John McCains age and his cancer trouble, and then it hits me.......oh my she could be president someday. Then I hear it in my head, she is taking her oath....hang on you hear it too......she says it......YOU BETCHA!

Come on people you know full well that John McCain did not choose her as his running mate, she was choosen for him, knowing full well they were pulling the gender card! "

freeport56 wrote on Oct 5, 2008 5:51 PM:

" President Johnson in 1965 started the War on Poverty. $4 Trillion dollars later we have the same percentage of poor.

It was a waste of good money! "

a teacher wrote on Oct 5, 2008 6:06 PM:

" Freeport: First off, I don't trust your numbers, but even if they are true, it's better to try and do something as opposed to nothing.

Secondly, the War on Poverty was not a complete failure. The poverty rates of children and the elderly have both significantly declined. Of course, it didn't help that every administration after Johnson did it's best to dismantle the programs. "

pbsm777 wrote on Oct 5, 2008 7:35 PM:

" Brace yourselves, the always classy neo cons have taken over the campaign. When youere losing, start the smear campaign. Can't win on the isues, just lie and smear. If you repeat a lie enough times over and over people think it's true. Just ask a random person why we went to war with Iraq? I "betcha" they say because they were responsible for 9/11.

When you can't sell you rmessage, resort to the classic - politics of SMEAR and FEAR.

It's the Karl Rove Way. wink wink.

Hello Ohio, next state for McCain to cut and run from?? "

bettye wrote on Oct 5, 2008 8:02 PM:

" I really feel it is time for Palin to go back to her pastor and let him lay hands on her to cast the "lying " spirit out of her ...I hope this new ad will just backfire and show Americans how low the McCain /Palin ticket will stoop to try to win this election.. ( And to hear her say " This is FUN "!! made me ILL.. ) This is way too serious to let someone that frivolus in the White House..
I say , Sarah ,go back to Alaska and make a big pot of moose stew, gather round the table with your kids and have some family time ...that should be more fun than what you are doing .. "

dellasumbrella wrote on Oct 5, 2008 9:37 PM:

" OMG! I just realized why Palin was chosen as Mc's running mate. First, a recap of her response to the Katie Couric interview about Supreme Court cases:
"There's, of course in the great history of America there have been rulings, that's never going to be absolute consensus by every American. And there are those issues, again, like Roe v. Wade, where I believe are best held on a state level and addressed there. So you know, going through the history of America, there would be others but …" Okay, all I can stand. But the kicker was the McCain advisor who said, when talking about the interview, that Palin was put on the ticket "because she connects with everyday Americans." It's pretty clear, isn't it, that she was positioned to connect, then transmit, the Rove smears, such as the new "swift boat" ad trying to link Obama with terrorism. She repeats these lies, it seems, with the blind conviction she has when repeatedly declaring herself and McCain "mavericks". Only I can imagine her putting a ton more of her "Joe Six-Pack like me" energy into her new sport of fly-by character assassination. I think they found the perfect hit man in Palin. "

misfit wrote on Oct 5, 2008 9:56 PM:

" Totally agree Dellasumbrella! She was the only one that could carry out the dirty work for McCain because she had no credibility to lose to begin with. She seems fearless and doesn't mind exposing herself. I mean, she is putting it all on the line and doesn't seem to care...kind of like a kama kazi pilot! They are running out of tactics so, why not sacrifice her? She is entertaining though. "

Duck wrote on Oct 5, 2008 10:53 PM:

" This was not to be a winking performance. How folksy can you get. And not only the nuclear hurt my ears but Iran and Iraq pronounced like "I" in I am; Iran and Iraq, give me a break. Eran and Eraq is how it they are pronounced in the world. And let's not talk about the lies and mis stating of facts. "

Duck wrote on Oct 5, 2008 10:56 PM:

" and another thing: when you are asked a question at a debate you cannot say that you would not asnwer the question but want to speak to the American people. Outrageous!
And Biden is smart, courteous and a gentleman. "

rogers wrote on Oct 5, 2008 11:00 PM:

" pbsm777 wrote "Brace yourselves...start the smear campaign".

Yup! It wouldn't surprise me that we will soon have some paid and trained hustler who will be trotted out by the RNC to describe her lurid affair with Obama about 2 weeks prior to election day. Even if she admits to lying after the election (like the Swift Boaters did against Kerry), the damage is done.

We will see how honest the old straight talker really is when winning is everything.

The one consistent thing the cons are good at, when truth won't work for them, is character assassination. "

rogers wrote on Oct 5, 2008 11:26 PM:

" And we still come back to the Troopergate issue. Governor Palin initially greets the legislative investigation with the intent of clearing herself and family.

Now of course she, her husband and aides refuse to testify at the inquiry. How many of us could get away with refusing a legislative subpoena?

Regardless of her innocence or complicity in this affair, the public can only see this as someone who will not come clean about the details and has used this campaign to shield herself by crying election year partisanship.

Perhaps she sees nothing wrong with firing those who disagree with her. Afterall, Rumsfeld did the same thing with the generals in the Pentagon. Ditto for Alberto Gonzales and the fired federal judges.

We shall see what happens with the Alaskan legislative and independent investigator's report October 10th. Want to bet that the RNC finds a federal judge who will agree to stifle the report to the Alaska legislature? "

dellasumbrella wrote on Oct 6, 2008 9:47 AM:

" Just between you and me, I understand from a fairly unreliable source (at this point, mere rumor) that Palin plans to dump McCain, and set her sights on 2012. (I wonder if that means she plans to put a contract out on him, or just ditch him, leaving him upcreek with no paddle?) (Just kidding, but it could be the start of an e-rumor to rival Rove's rampant regurgitations.) Anyway, she's clearly suffering from a good case of grandiosity. If not worse. "

Sandra wrote on Oct 6, 2008 10:36 AM:

" "misfit wrote on Oct 5, 2008 12:16 AM:

" Sandra, I am soooo happy for you, that you have been fortunate enough to be able to pay for your own insurance premiums. Good for you. I suppose that entitles you to feel that you are better than anyone else who couldn't possibly afford them. It's a shame that can't just feel more of a......let's say, personal gratitude for your higher position in life. Do you really believe in God? I suggest you simply, thank him, or her. "

What an idiotic thing to say....You have absolutely no idea of my income level. You have nothing to base this statement on other than small mindedness.
Higher position in life? Better than others? ....
My family is lower middle class. We work very hard, and budget our money very carefully so we can pay our insurance. We do not go on expensive vacations. We hardly ever go out to dinner. Because we are self employed over 65% of our income goes to taxes and insurance. We are just above the income level that would allow financial aid to our college bound son. We are now, in addition to just trying to live, figure out how to set aside more of our meager funds to get him into cal poly in the next couple of years.
It must be very special for you to be able to judge others that you know nothing about.
You can critisize me because my family has priorities, and doesn't believe in hand outs...but it is not valid criticism especially considering the source...misfit. "

rage against wrote on Oct 6, 2008 12:23 PM:

" Free report,

Your question was , where do corporations come in (in reference to fascism)?

I don't know where you procured your definition of fascism, but you state that fascists maintain very stringent socioeconomic controls. I'll point out to you that corporations such as Haliburton or Lockheed-Martin are indeed apart of the United State's socioeconomic structure, are are indeed under stringent control of the US government.

Maybe you could answer me a question, how does the drudge report go about finding out there information? And where on there website do they explain this? "

14obama wrote on Oct 6, 2008 2:47 PM:

" If I hear that voice one more time,I'll shoot the darn TV ! I mean,"you gotta be kiddin" ! Tell me the nightmare's over,will ya ? Never in my 68 years have I seen such a joke placed on the people,never ! I don't feel sorry for her anymore. She could've cut n run by now,but no. "

anticommie wrote on Oct 6, 2008 2:53 PM:

" to the lefties:

Socialism is:

1. a theory or system of social organization that advocates the vesting of the ownership and control of the means of production and distribution, of capital, land, etc., in the community as a whole.
2. procedure or practice in accordance with this theory.
3. (in Marxist theory) the stage following capitalism in the transition of a society to communism, characterized by the imperfect implementation of collectivist principles.

Rageagainst said that socialism is better. Why? Because it's "fair"? Life isnt fair. Get over it. Most of all the conservatives I know, would be categarized as low middle class or even "poor." The difference between them and liberals is that THEY are not looking for handouts from anyone. They believe that less intervention in their affairs is better, and you know what? THEY are right. For years and years I made half of what I do now (and now isnt much). I paid for MY OWN health insurance, and to do so I had to cut many luxeries out of my life. Why should anyone be forced to pay for someone's elses problems? Even if I was rich, it means that I was able to overcome myown financial problems, and if I wanted to be selfish I could be. I dont want the rich to pay for me. They earned their money or were lucky enough to have a family that helped. Good for them! Socialism is better off for the rich and people in power anyway, because they have already made it. That is why it is easy to preach that EVERYONE would be able to live like them. "

anticommie wrote on Oct 6, 2008 3:09 PM:

" sandra:

Left wingers think they are entitled to everything, just because we live in the most wealthiest country ever. What they dont realize is, that 99% of conservatives want a SMALLER government, and believe the Reagan quote of "The nine most terrifying words in the English language are: I'm from the government and I'm here to help." "

anticommie wrote on Oct 6, 2008 3:11 PM:

" Another thing:

Why does the left always complain that the government always the problem, but whenever they get a chance, they want the government to help them out? I just dont get the rational there. "

Raven wrote on Oct 6, 2008 4:56 PM:

" hmmm....yeah...wall street is just full of left wingers begging the govt to bail them...it is a regular nest of liberal loonies there....

as for smaller govt, anti, you do realize that the compassionate conservatives in the Bush administration have increased the size and intrusion of the govt in your life? "

rage against wrote on Oct 6, 2008 5:06 PM:

" Anticommie,

I would choose socialism over fascism, because socialism distributes more power to the people, whereas fascism concentrates power in the government.

Would you choose fascism over socialism?

And, you are right about being selfish. I'm sure your survival and happiness are so threatened by a socialist health care system (the only socialist program being proposed and/or talked about in this election) that you can't spare anything for anyone. Like you said, you earned that ability, when you did all that stuff you were talking about.

The only people with enough power to really force you to pay for anything are the people with the guns and the bombs, and they have already been forcing you to pay taxes your whole life.

Besides, paying for and working towards other people's well being, rather than a war machine, will be a welcome change when you come to understand it. "

14obama wrote on Oct 6, 2008 5:56 PM:

" I'm disappointed with my fellow Americans. Palin doesn't even come close to having the ability of doing the job. She's in there to distract the attention away from the old man and maybe get some votes from the "follow the leader Christians". It's what Bush did ! Bush really did a number on the so called Christians,didn't he ? If ya put anybody under their nose,they'll find something to believe they are capable of a high office. Alfred E. Newman would be much better. "

Sandra wrote on Oct 7, 2008 8:47 AM:

" Raven, as for "compassionate conservatives in the Bush administration"....
Bush never was conservative on social issues....much too liberal from my perspective. One of the reasons I never cared for him as a president. "

rage against wrote on Oct 7, 2008 9:09 AM:

" 14 0bama,

What do you expect? The republicans are losing in every poll, except the completely biased and/or irrelevant ones. They are very irritated that they are not going to get their way this time around.

What you should expect are some some very serious, very dirty accusations to be thrown at Barrack Obama in the next couple of weeks. The smear fest will be kicked well-past overdrive. It will be "Vote McCain, or else Sadam Hussien, Osama Bin Laden, Kim Jong Il and Adolph Hitler, who possess Obama's dark soul, will drag this country down to the seventh ring of hell", but it won't work this time because it is predictable, desperate, and false.

Another thing to expect, which I will find very entertaining, will be when Sarah Palin begins to dislocate herself from John McCain.

It will probably be a media black out on her for a while, and then in about a year or two she will resurface championing some random cause. She'll be hailed as a re-born angel by the religous right, and there won't be one mention from her, or her "followers" about McCain, Bush, or any of her failed Republican affiliations.

This probably won't happen, but it would be much more entertaining for me, right after McCain loses, to see her pull a Terrel Owens.
"I wore a mini skirt, used as many colloquialisms as I could, applied as much lipstick as possible, and we still lost. It's not my fault."

Get ready for a big W democrats, and I don't mean George. "

Raven wrote on Oct 7, 2008 12:58 PM:

" just curious...what issues was he too liberal for you? "

anticommie wrote on Oct 8, 2008 9:30 AM:

" Sandra:

You took the words right out of my mouth. Thanks!!!!

Raven:

The number one issue that Bush is a liberal on is his spending habits. We spend more money on education, defense, welfare, healthcare, poverty around the world, bailouts, UN spending, and I could go on. The man has no ability to be conservative on spending. Maybe that is where the "compassion" comes from. He is liberal in his growth of the government, which the Left should be thrilled about, if it was Clinton, Gore, or Obama did the same gain of power that the government has taken in the past 8 years, they would be considered "heroes."

Rage:

I would rather have neither, thanks. I will stick to Capitalism and the belief of a republic system of government. The same one that our Founding Fathers authored. Since this Union was formed, the government has taken more and more control over every aspect of the lives of the people.

If you think that the universal healthcare is the only aspect of socialism in this election, wake up my friend. The biggest aspect of socialism in this election is the wealth distribution that your candidate proposes. "

dellasumbrella wrote on Oct 8, 2008 10:59 AM:

" Anticommie -- In my mind, there's a difference between government control and government stewardship through action. It is not socialistic that the government is responsible for creating and maintaining infrastructure; ensuring there are adequate opportunities for education and training of those who contribute, through their hard work, to the nation's economy, innovation and well-being; and developing a stable foundation for economic growth to take place. That's what I would hope I'm paying government to do.
I much prefer this role of government, which is not inconsistent with the intentions of the founding fathers, to the one of global dominance and corporate-driven rule that has been driven home by neo-cons and has apparently been adopted by McCain.
As Obama states, after declaring communism and socialism "bankrupt" as alternative means of economic organization, "[O]ur free-market system is the result neither of natural law nor of divine providence. Rather, it emerged through a painful pricess of trial and error, a series of difficult choices between efficiency and fairness, stability and change. And although the benefits of our free-market system have mostly derived from the individual efforts of generations of men and women pursuing their own vision of happiness, in each and every period of great economic upheaval and transition we've depended on government action to open up opportunity, encourage competition, and make the market work better." -- Audacity of Hope, p.150 "

rage against wrote on Oct 8, 2008 2:10 PM:

" Thank you dellasumbrella for saying that which I could not. "

14obama wrote on Oct 8, 2008 8:31 PM:

" Well said "pbsm777" ! I'm sending you a "high five" on that one. Carl Rove is gettin overtime right now ! He's rotten to the core ! He sold his soul to the devil. Gestapoish !
I sure am disappointed with my fellow Napans who choose more of the same.
First they must admit their mistake when voting for Bush before they'll be able to see the truth. Get past the pride ! Simple as that ! "

vocal-de-local wrote on Oct 9, 2008 11:21 PM:

" Right on dellasumbrella! "

yikes wrote on Oct 10, 2008 9:42 AM:

" I like Palin. She is looking out for the regular all american people. She comes across as very candid and open, while Biden has a smug, conceited, condescending attiutude. I couldn't stand to look at him as he sneered at Palin. Typical "it's a man's world" attitude. Please wake up people...let's get out of the good ol boys club. "

14obama wrote on Oct 14, 2008 2:46 PM:

" That's simple ! Why ask ? The McCain people really made an irresponsiblle decision when choosing Palin. Who's gonna run the store when the "old man" kicks the bucket ? Airheads !n Where are you "Pubs" at ? "

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