 |
|
 |
|
 |
|
| 06:04 November 03 |
HUGE ISSUE:
I imagine as somebody running a website like this, internet regulation is something that matters to you.
Net Neutrality: "Net Neutrality prevents Internet providers from blocking, speeding up or slowing down Web content based on its source, ownership or destination."
McCain is AGAINST this. He wants to allow the government and ISP to allow things like blocking (censoring) or slowing down web content for anyone visiting sites like yours. Obama strongly supports the free internet:
"Protect the Openness of the Internet: A key reason the Internet has been such a success is because it is the most open network in history. It needs to stay that way. Barack Obama strongly supports the principle of network neutrality to preserve the benefits of open competition on the Internet."
This is a major issue to a lot of us. I, for one enjoy having an open internet. .... |
| Max |
| 05:43 November 03 |
The following were said by McCain''s advisers. Not pundits, blogs, email spam or news anchors. Their advisers--
"Her lack of fundamental understanding of some key issues was dramatic,"
"She is a diva. She takes no advice from anyone," said this McCain adviser. "She does not have any relationships of trust with any of us, her family or anyone else."
"The source said it was probably the "hardest" to get her "up to speed than any candidate in history."
"Palin is ‘a whack job."
The people directly responsible for educating her on the topics and getting her elected are basically saying she has no idea what she is doing and that she lacks trust for anybody. Ouch. .... |
| Henry |
| 05:30 November 03 |
Cheney, along with Bush, just endorsed Obama. While seemingly insignificant, it begs the question:
Why would Bush and Cheney endorse McCain when McCain and Palin have campaigned as "mavericks" promoting "change" from last 8 years.
They aren't about to endorse an administration who is going to undo all their policies.
They know better. |
| Anonymous |
| 03:31 November 03 |
Josh pick this guy i have helped you choose
you gotta pick this guy or else everything will take a turn for the worse in your life. you wont be able to eat any food because you didnt vote for this MAN.
have a good day x |
| naomie & josh, KY |
| 03:27 November 03 |
This guy has 2 win yyyyyyyyyaaaaaaaaayyyyyyyyyyyyyyy
i am evil muahahahahahahahaaha xD |
| naomie & josh, KY |
| 03:25 November 03 |
| because it is the best |
| naomie & josh, KY |
| 02:19 November 03 |
It seems today McCain prefers campaigning on the idea that Obama is a socialist rather than to actually address any issues. As an educated voter you should know that both McCain and Palin have spread the wealth. These are not opinions but indisputable facts. Get a clearer picture:
McCain has previously expressed his support for "spreading the wealth":
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v...
TIME MAGAZINE: "Seven years ago, as Brokaw pointed out, McCain himself was sounding redistributionist, complaining about President Bush's tax cuts. Campaigning against Bush in 2000, he said that "when you ... reach a certain level of comfort, there's nothing wrong with paying somewhat more." Obama has said no more than this, except to set the "level of comfort" at $250,000, which is pretty comfortable."
His idol Teddy Roosevelt had socialist policies:
"McCain's Hero: More Socialist Than Obama!McCain can call Obama a socialist or he can call Teddy Roosevelt his hero. He can't do both."
http://www.slate.com/id/220295...
And Palin "spread the wealth" in Alaska.
"Republicans John McCain and Sarah Palin summon antidemocratic images of a communist state to attack Democrat Barack Obama's tax plan and his comment about spreading the wealth around. But in her home state, Palin embraces Alaska's own version of doing just that." .... |
| Matt, NY |
| 17:40 November 02 |
Hey Josh,
This isn't necessarily in support of either candidate, but I've seen you ask a few questions about the housing crisis, and I came across a good article here:
http://www.azcentral.com/busin...
As you can see, borrowers are certainly mentioned as contributing to the situation, but it's also evident that they're only one small piece of the bigger economic snafu.
And, into the politics I go...
Josh, I'm really glad that you found my previous post helpful, and I'm sort of flattered that Lance took the time to deconstruct some of my statements from his perspective. I feel like these boards have been heavy with tax talk, so I hope you're not too pooped on that, but I did want to reinforce a few points I made with some sources:
I've seen you ask about how Obama will accomplish tax cuts without running a deficit. According to this report by the non-partisan US Budget Watch:
http://usbudgetwatch.org/files...
Obama *will* be running a deficit with his proposals. However, the deficit will be smaller than the one resulting from McCain's proposals by nearly a trillion dollars. (3.3 vs 4.1 trill over 10 years)
McCain has mentioned that he would balance the budget with spending cuts, but these are still, as of two days away, unspecified.
This report also compares the corporate loopholes that Obama and McCain would close, with Obama coming out ahead with $849 vs $462 billion over 10 years. What Lance said about corporations shipping jobs abroad might be true if raising taxes were the only thing that played into their decision. However, taxes as they’re currently structured and as McCain supports actually reward and encourage corporations that go overseas.
On supporting small businesses, good ol’ factcheck.org once again shows its mettle and gives some info on small business taxes: http://www.factcheck.org/elect...
Lance (if you’re reading this), some of your comments gave me the impression that we’re actually on sort of the same page regarding markets? When it came to the economy and trusting free markets, Clinton was/is as neoconservative as they come. I totally agree with you that the market deregulation should be replaced―and Obama agrees with us, too. I also agree on your idea of a “workout,” and Obama agrees with us, too...and now, so does Alan Greenspan, former king of all things economic and neoconservative:
http://topics.nytimes.com/top/...
At any rate, I’m not a lock-step Democrat, and reading your comments to me, it seems you’re not a lock-step conservative, either, if you’re not interested in market deregulation? So, maybe I can convince both you AND Josh to vote Obama?? Hee...
Back to Josh: the inclusion of the Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac video is interesting, but misleading. Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac weren’t the root of the current market crisis: http://www.mcclatchydc.com/251...
Well, it’s down to the wire. I’m all economied-out, I think. Good luck with your decision! You must be one of the most well-informed voters in the country right now! .... |
| Eleonore, MN |
| 00:08 November 02 |
Palin demonstrates profound ignorance of basic civil liberties. Doesn't understand the first amendment:
"Palin told WMAL-AM that her criticism of Obama's associations, like those with 1960s radical Bill Ayers and the Rev. Jeremiah Wright, should not be considered negative attacks. Rather, for reporters or columnists to suggest that it is going negative may constitute an attack that threatens a candidate's free speech rights under the Constitution, Palin said.
--------------
If anything, Palin has this exactly backwards, since one thing that the First Amendment does actually guarantee is a free press. Thus, when the press criticizes a political candidate and a Governor such as Palin, that is a classic example of First Amendment rights being exercised, not abridged.
This isn't only about profound ignorance regarding our basic liberties, though it is obviously that..."
http://www.salon.com/opinion/g... .... |
| Justine, NY |
| 16:50 November 01 |
Hailey, Palin does not have a security clearance. She does not “sit in” on briefings. She has sent the troops out for floods.This according to the military person in charge of the Guards.
Common sense should tell you that if this was really a key role in Palin's role in Alaska the McCain campaign wouldn't have mentioned it. |
| Patrick, PA |
| 02:09 November 01 |
The whole socialism issue is pretty funny. We just spent $850 billion on the economic bailout.
Share wealth with the risky investment bankers in Wall St? ...Sure
Share wealth with a family struggling with college loans?...No way, no how, not over my dead body socialism! communism! terrorism!
Sad thing is the people who are most against this plan often tend to be the one's who have the most to gain from it. |
| Greg, NV |
| 01:54 November 01 |
| How are socialist endorements (OH NO NOT CANADIANS !!) deemed scary but Al Qaeda's endorsement for McCain because their perception of him being a warmonger playing into their plans not scary? |
| JasonNYU, NY |
| 01:52 November 01 |
Well I'm glad we're in agreement then...
To summarize:
Al Qaeda would prefer John McCain because they believe he will coax us into more wars and continue to kill our soldiers.
Yeah, I'm much more confident now /sarcasm |
| Anonymous |
| 01:33 November 01 |
This seems worth repeating given some of the new posts on the other side, my previous post was buried in a barrage of spam.
Yes, Obama's does have a record of non-voting. Unfortunately such habits bad for all of us citizens, regardless of political party. As far as this debate is concerned however, it's worth noting McCain missed more votes than Obama, Hillary or Biden in the senate. He's actually missed more than any other senator including Senator Tim Johnson who suffered a brain hemorrhage.
http://firstread.msnbc.msn.com...
http://projects.washingtonpost... |
| JasonNYU, NY |
| 01:27 November 01 |
Actually, according to the report Al Qaeda cited their endorsement for McCain because they believe he would continue the policies of George Bush (maybe they saw the "We'll stay in Iraq for a hundred years" of McCain's) where they can continue to coax us into more wars and kill more of our soldiers.
I don't need a translator thanks, the NYT article will do just fine. You seem to be interpreting this to fit your own belief rather than actually reading what they said.Maybe you need one? |
| Anonymous |
| 01:23 November 01 |
*sorry, no edit feature :)
"I meant STOP the spread of Nazism and fascism." |
| Emma |
| 01:23 November 01 |
Actually, the soldiers in World War II died in their attempts to spread Nazism and fascism. Not socialism or communism.
Talk about our soldiers dying in vain... |
| Emma |
| 01:17 November 01 |
"Seriously, doesnt the fact the Communists, Socialists, Iran, and Cuba endorsing him make you fucking freak? "
Doesn't Al Qaeda endorsing McCain make you freak?
http://www.nytimes.com/2008/10... |
| Anonymous |
| 01:11 November 01 |
Dave, the Cold War wasn't an actual "war" fought by armed forces with american soldiers.
It was a period of a strained economic and diplomatic relationship between the USSR and the United States who could develop faster.
http://www.google.com/search?h... |
| Emma |
| 00:45 November 01 |
It’s pretty easy to play the shady mysterious politician game a lot of people are doing with Obama [despite most of that information has in fact been released anyway]. Observe:
Palin has yet to release her medical records? What is she hiding?
John McCain hasn't –publicly- released his medical records? What is he hiding? [over 2700 doctors are calling on him to do so: http://therealmccain.com/docto... ]
Palin hasn't released her college transcripts yet. What is she hiding?
Palin hasn't addressed the conditons and reasoning for transferring six colleges in six years. What is she hiding? [Seriously, 6 schools? I don't care who you are, that's crazy]
McCain hasn't release an official college transcript yet. What is he hiding?
See? .... |
| Victoria, CA |
| 00:11 November 01 |
| It's my understanding that these are simply automated spambots that spam the first text box on a page that it can find. If not however I do agree with you that purposeful intentions of doing it to this side of the board would probably just backfire in terms of your intentions. Lets keep it clean and civil folks. |
| Anonymous |
| 00:06 November 01 |
As a frequent poster from the other side of this site I find it very disturbing that someone is spamming THIS side. You're not helping the Republican cause by being a prick if even that was your intention.
the free exchange of ideas is important to our society and I think that all of us can agree that although we disagree, it is important to hear all claims, all views, and all opinions regardless of our support for them.
Please stop spamming the Obama side... and that is not an invitation to start spamming the McCain side either. |
| Dave, NY |
| 23:52 October 31 |
| Could you please stop spamming this site with your garbage, i like seeing why people think this nigger should be voted into office and not in a noose. |
| O NO OREO, DC |
| 15:37 October 31 |
LOL, sure Tom.
"McCain misses most votes of candidates
As of today, Obama has missed slightly fewer than 40 percent of his Senate votes since the beginning of 2007, while Clinton’s absentee rate is just under 30 percent.
But McCain has topped both candidates, missing a staggering 58 percent of his votes during the 110th Congress, according to the Washington Post’s congressional votes database. "
To put this in perspective, McCain has now missed more votes than Sen. Tim Johnson of South Dakota, who suffered a brain hemorrhage in December 2006 and was unable to return to the Senate until fall of last year. McCain has now missed nine votes more than Johnson. />
http://firstread.msnbc.msn.com...
http://projects.washingtonpost... .... |
| JasonNYU, NY |
| 15:29 October 31 |
Tom, you might want a clearer picture about "indifference"
John McCain: 407 votes missed (63.8%), 231 votes cast
Barack Obama: 290 votes missed (45.5%), 348 votes cast
Hillary Clinton: 206 votes missed (32.3%), 432 votes cast
J. Biden: 193 votes missed (30.3%), 445 votes cast |
| Liz, OH |
| 12:58 October 31 |
I guess Palin is a socialist AND A HYPOCRITE?
"Fact Check: Palin's Alaska spreads its wealth
Republicans John McCain and Sarah Palin summon antidemocratic images of a communist state to attack Democrat Barack Obama's tax plan and his comment about spreading the wealth around. But in her home state, Palin embraces Alaska's own version of doing just that."
http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/200... |
| Anonymous |
| 12:29 October 31 |
Yes, a lot of people are indeed voting Obama after having been disenfranchised by the republican party and their republican president. I imagine the same would've happened if the democrats were in similar control.
The big issue though is not that Obama is getting votes because of Bush's failures, it's because McCain voted with Bush 90% to enact those failures. |
| Liz, OH |
| 02:26 October 30 |
Who said Obama is "pure"? He's far from it. Just because I'm defending Obama in this particular instance doesn't mean I somehow think he's some supreme infallible being. That isn't a very "logical" conclusion, is it?
And I understand what his logic is, but some joe schmo's logic doesn't supersede the professional opinions of security clearance attorneys and a retired Army intelligence officer. If our economy and entire government was governed entirely by elementary logic we wouldn't exist right now. I think "logically" our state electorates should be legally bound to cast their presidential vote based on who the majority of people in the state vote for. That isn't the actual case though.
/>
As logical as you might believe something is, that doesn't make it reality. So stop dismissing "sources" and "evidence" based on your inklings, logic and beliefs. .... |
| Anonymous |
| 02:00 October 30 |
Seriously? I don't love obama {gonna vote for him though} but all you guys should try answering questions from the other side rather than slinging accusations back and forth.
yes it bothers me that obama has all these connections to these people like castro and chavez and the iranian president. yes it bothers me that there are some, SOME publications that condemn his plans and thoughts and ideas.
but at least hes not bush. |
| ian, LA |
| 01:40 October 30 |
Didn't you know? In terms of credibility:
Guy who read a chain email and makes up Wal-Mart analogies > Practicing security clearance attorneys and a retired Army intelligence officer |
| Anonymous |
| 01:25 October 30 |
So, you have no source and you claim you don't need one. I'm supposed to take your "hunch" over what happens over prominent security clearance lawyers?
You dismiss lawyers opinions as lacking in credibility but somehow I'm supposed to accept yours as fact?
Sounds about right...not. Seriously, think about that. Your opinion is no more credible than the lawyers in the Politifact article.
Also, read that article again. It states that you do have to report such associations but it is not a disqualifier, especially if it's been made public. The idea that they would decline the commander in chief security clearance as a guard is paradoxical.
Having a hunch that something you read is right doesn't make it an indisputable fact. .... |
| Jim, MA |
| 00:55 October 30 |
"I don't need a source."
Oh my mistake, how presumptuous of me. Wrong until proven otherwise right? That's a good stance to take on bogus chain emails..just accept them as fact.
"It doesn't bother you that he, in his own book, admits to hanging out with and associating with Marxist professors?"
No. This guilt by association things is ridiculous. I had a friend who had a drinking problem...does that mean I'm a drunk?
"The fact that all these crazy nutjobs are coming out in favor of him doesn't bother you? Seriously tell me. It doesn't bother you that communists and socialists and the Iranian leader is in full fledged SUPPORT of him?"
Oh, but AL QAEDA's support doesn't bother you?
http://www.nytimes.com/2008/10...
ROFL. Okay... .... |
| Anonymous |
| 00:15 October 30 |
You might consider getting a source to back up your allegations, Hal.
"I READ IT SO IT'S TRUE!!11"
"blah" yourself. what a joke. |
| Anonymous |
| 00:14 October 30 |
| is anyone else beginning to think that anonymous is the same guy on both sides of this site? |
| greg, HI |
| 00:13 October 30 |
LMAO.
You DEMAND proof that such a claim is false.
Yet you have NO proof that YOUR claim is TRUE!
I'm still waiting for you to find one credible source that will support this assertion about Obama's security clearance. Again, chain emails don't count. |
| Jim, MA |
| 23:59 October 29 |
You attack PolitiFact, a well-know, nonbiased fact checking organization that has been cited by major publications like the Washington Post newspaper...but have no source of your own?
How unsurprising. |
| Anonymous |
| 23:53 October 29 |
Okay, Hal, let's see YOUR HIGHLY "CREDIBLE" source. Sorry, but your chain emails and joe schmo blog/forum posts don't count.
You might want to pay attention to this Hal:
"It's worth noting that the president, no matter who he or she may be, automatically gets access to any classified information, and in fact has the authority to decide who else in the government gets access to it. Just by virtue of having been elected to the U.S. Senate, Obama already has access to a great deal of secret intelligence information." |
| Jim, MA |
| 23:50 October 29 |
gray-
I'm sorry I couldn't include every single point. Half of those were about official college transcripts and papers...Palin and McCain haven't released those either.
Besides, he went to two ivy leagues and graduated with honors (magna cum laude). So if you're expecting to find something incriminating you're not. McCain however graduated at the bottom of his class and Palin went through 6 colleges before getting a BA in communications from a third tier university. What are THEY hiding? |
| Anonymous |
| 23:36 October 29 |
"if he applied to the secret service or the fbi he'd be disqualified for having even the appearance of a relationship with a known terrorist"
WRONG.
helpjoshdecide.com has become "DebunkMythsAboutObama.com":
http://www.politifact.com/trut... |
| Jim, MA |
| 18:27 October 29 |
Lou's understanding of the financial crisis is deeply flawed. First things first: saying that the repeal of Glass Stegall with the Gramm Leach Bliley Act caused the crisis is just wrong. Secondly, even if for some reason you believe it DID cause the crisis, you do realize that this bill's namesake is for John McCain's chief economic adviser, right? It's hard to point fingers and blame this solely on the democrats.
http://www.factcheck.org/elect...
"The truth is, however, the Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act had little if anything to do with the current crisis. In fact, economists on both sides of the political spectrum have suggested that the act has probably made the crisis less severe than it might otherwise have been."
.................
"Actually, deregulated banks were not the major culprits in the current debacle. Bank of America, Citigroup, Wells Fargo and J.P. Morgan Chase have weathered the financial crisis in reasonably good shape, while Bear Stearns collapsed and Lehman Brothers has entered bankruptcy, to name but two of the investment banks which had remained independent despite the repeal of Glass-Steagall. "
....................
"Observers as diverse as former Clinton Treasury official and current Berkeley economist Brad DeLong and George Mason University's Tyler Cowen, a libertarian, have praised Gramm-Leach-Bliley has having softened the crisis. The deregulation allowed Bank of America and J.P. Morgan Chase to acquire Merrill Lynch and Bear Stearns. And Goldman Sachs and Morgan Stanley have now converted themselves into unified banks to better ride out the storm."
Alas, Lou just exemplifies the voter plagued with widespread disinformation. The simple fact is that that some of the most respected economists and intellectuals can't pinpoint the subprime financial debacle to any one single cause. I sincerely doubt "Lou" can. .... |
| JasonNYU, NY |
| 16:34 October 29 |
haha of course...schumer and clinton were to blame for the gramm act. All the dems were.
just not gramm...lol |
| Todd, OH |
| 16:02 October 29 |
How am I "twisting" anything?
You evidenced the fact that "democrats were responsible" for the crisis citing the Gramm-Leach-Bliley act. I pointed out that the man who the bill is named after is Phil Gramm...McCain's chief economic adviser. Was I wrong? Was that not Phil Gramm? Is he not McCain's economic adviser? Please explain what about my post was so misleading. |
| Anonymous |
| 10:34 October 29 |
I'm not ignoring anything Lou, you're just blathering on about stuff you don't know about.
The link you provided referred to the repeal of the Glass-Steagall act in the form of the Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act. Read your OWN cnn article and pay particular attention to this:
"The world changes, and Congress and the laws have to change with it," said Senate Banking Committee Chairman Phil Gramm (R-Texas), who has fought for years for the overhaul. Gramm said the bill would improve banking competition and stability. "
Who is Phil Gramm you ask?
Oh, wait...that's McCain's chief economic adviser!
Take it from Paul Krugrman...WINNER OF THE 2008 NOBEL PRIZE IN ECONOMICS: "Seriously, the Gramm connection tells you all you need to know about where a McCain administration would stand on financial issues: squarely against any significant reform."
http://krugman.blogs.nytimes.c...
Your lame attempt to "blame the democrats!" failed miserably here. .... |
| Anonymous |
| 01:39 October 29 |
Lou, you said that the democratic congress was the cause of the financial meltdown. They formed in 2006, yet the best "evidence" you could muster up is a video from 2004 (during the REPUBLICAN congress). I have yet to see any proof of how the democrats gaining power in congress caused the subprime crisis, as you allege.
The mere fact that the democrats took over congress barely TWO years ago completely destroys any credence to your argument. This all did not not happen just in the last two years. The causes of this date much further back. Things like banking deregulation, subprime mortgages, predatory lending, shorting stocks, the fed's promotion of adjustable rate mortgages, the improper bundling of mortgage backed securities etc caused the meltdown. This did not happen in the last 1.5 to 2 years as you evidently seem to believe.
Yes, the democrats were responsible. Yes, the republicans were responsible. Yes, Clinton was responsible. Yes, Bush was responsible. Yes, Wall Street was responsible. Yes, lenders were responsible. Yes, people living beyond their means were responsible.
For you to just blame a democratic congress is short-sighted and demonstrates an embarrassingly basic level of any financial acumen. .... |
| Anonymous |
| 16:21 October 28 |
The unemployment rate under Bush, Lou:
2000 (Clinton): 4.0%
2001 (Bush): 4.7%
2002: 5.8%
2003: 6.0%
2004: 5.5%
2005: 5.15
2006 4.6%
2007: 4.6%
2008 (YTD average): 5.5%
6/8 of the years he was in office, there was greater unemployment then when he started. Unemployment was only lower (by a mere .1 at that too) for 2 years in 2006 and 2007...only to segway into one of the worst financial pitfalls in history. Conversely, Clinton nearly halved the unemployment rate. Please stop bragging about Bush's "economy" and his unemployment rates.
http://www.nidataplus.com/lfeu... |
| Jim |
| 16:02 October 28 |
| Uh, Lou...The subprime crisis began when the housing bubble collapsed, not because the democrats had a slight majority in congress. If you're going to make an absurd allegation show us some evidence of specific legislation. |
| Anonymous |
| 07:48 October 28 |
David, I wouldn't be arguing about the money Obama got from Freddie/Fannie when McCains top 20 donors include:
"1. Merrill Lynch $359,070
2. Citigroup Inc $296,151
3. Morgan Stanley $262,777
4. Goldman Sachs $228,695
5. JPMorgan Chase & Co $215,042
8. Credit Suisse Group $178,053
11. Wachovia Corp $159,107
13. UBS AG $147,465
14. Bank of America $143,026
19. Lehman Brothers $115,707
20. Bear Stearns $113,050"
All three major commercial banks (Citi, Chase, BOA)? CHECK. All five of the major Wall Street investment firms (Goldman Sachs, Merill Lynch, Bear Sterns, Lehman Brothers, Morgan Stanley)? CHECK. The two major non-US banks (Credit Suisse, UBS)? CHECK.
Arguing the source of contributions would just be throwing stones from a glass house. .... |
| Amy, OH |
|
|
JOSH FOUND THIS HELPFUL
|
| 05:36 October 28 |
>>Obama's endorsement by world socialist and communist leaders, his ties to terrorist orgenizations
Oh, but what about Al Qaeda's endorsement for McCain?
http://seattlepi.nwsource.com/...
...oops! |
| Cindy, LA |
| 05:11 October 28 |
"his ties to terrorist orgenizations"
What the heck kind of BS are you spouting? Pray tell, ENLIGHTEN us with what terrorist cell Obama is so closely tied to this time? |
| John, PA |
| 04:18 October 28 |
I'm sorry, this is pathetic:
To Dave-
"And Obama being a man who knows what it's like to struggle in his life and face all sorts of adversity isn't a charade? Occidental, Columbia, Harvard?"
Yes, having a single mother, growing up on food stamps and welfare and managing to get scholarships to some of the most prestigious universities in the world...only to rise above all the trust fund kids to earn a spot as President of the Harvard Law Review is very much considered facing an uphill battle of adversity.
It's not like he had parents who donated tons of $$$ to the school and pulled major connections to get him in. He actually had to earn it.
Wow... |
| Anonymous |
| 20:37 October 27 |
Dave-
"You think Obama paid for his arrogant personal emblem to be painted on his private jet out of his own pocket? Or do you think donor money went to that? "
This is ridiculous. Of course it's to be expected that presidential candidates will spend money on transportation, branding planes, dresses/suits etc. I fail to see how that justifies a Louis Vuitton handbag for an 8 year old girl. Buying a little girl couture handbags are NOT comparable to putting a presidential candidate's name on a bus or plane.
I wonder what Joe the Plumber things about little Piper carrying around a handbag that could be worth a month+ worth of paychecks. Obama sure is the elitist...[not quite]
";Okay, here's the deal with the Edwar'ds $400 haircut. No one (at least not me) were pointing out abuse of tax dollars or campaign contributions. We were making fun of his vanity. Any regular "Average Joe" would think it ridiculous to spend $400 on a haircut when a $20 one is really just as good. It's typical effeminate behavior. We found it funny. We weren't OUTRAGED by it. It amused us."
I'm not outraged by it. Nor are most of the Democrats (hell, it wasn't OUR money being donated to her or the RNC). We're amused by it just as you were because there's such a great deal of laughable irony here...The way Palin (mrs. hockey mom/joe 6 pack/small town values are "real america" etc) is in reality acting more like a big city New York socialite/heiress. The fact that you people still buy into this charade is what is truly "amusing" .... |
| Anonymous |
| 20:24 October 27 |
It is time for a new perspective. The other side has had their chance to lead our country and you can draw your own conclusions on how things have gone. (hint: are we better off today than we were 8 years ago?)
Obama is best suited to mend our relationships around the world, so America is once again trusted and looked up to as a country not only of military might, but of compassion for those who are less fortunate. |
| Bob G, NM |
| 12:37 October 27 |
| Barack means lightning |
| charlie, CA |
| 10:35 October 27 |
This should (!) help you decide Josh...
Dear Red States:
If you manage to steal this election too we've decided we're leaving. We intend to form our own country, and we're taking the other Blue States with us. In case you aren't aware, that includes California, Hawaii, Oregon,
Washington, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan, Illinois and all the Northeast. We believe this split will be beneficial to the nation, and especially to the people of the new country of New California.
To sum up briefly: You get Texas, Oklahoma and all the slave states. We get stem cell research and the best beaches. We get the Statue of Liberty. You get Dollywood. We get Intel and Microsoft. You get WorldCom. We get Harvard. You get Ole' Miss.
We get 85% of America's venture capital and entrepreneurs. You get Alabama. We get two-thirds of the tax revenue, you get to make the red states pay
their fair share. Since our aggregate divorce rate is 22% lower than the Christian Coalition's, we get a bunch of happy families. You get a bunch of single moms.
Please be aware that Nuevo California will be pro-choice and anti-war, and we're going to want all our citizens back from Iraq at once. If you need people to fight, ask your evangelicals. They have kids they're
apparently willing to send to their deaths for no purpose, and they don't care if you don't show pictures of their children's caskets coming home. We do wish you success in Iraq , and hope that the WMDs turn up, but we're not willing to spend our resources in Bush's Quagmire.
With the Blue States in hand, we will have firm control of 80% of the country's fresh water, more than 90% of the pineapple and lettuce, 92% of the nation's fresh fruit, 95% of America's quality wines, 90% of all cheese, 90% of the high tech industry, 95% of the corn and soybeans (thanks Iowa!), most of the U.S. low-sulfur coal, all living redwoods, sequoias and condors, all the Ivy and Seven Sister schools plus Stanford, Cal Tech and MIT. With the Red States, on the other hand, you will have to cope with 88% of all obese Americans (and their projected health care costs), 92% of all U.S. mosquitoes, nearly 100% of the tornadoes, 90% of the hurricanes, 99% of all Southern Baptists, virtually 100% of all televangelists, Rush Limbaugh, Bob Jones University, Clemson and the University of Georgia. We get Hollywood and Yosemite, thank you.
Additionally, 38% of those in the Red states believe Jonah was actually swallowed by a whale, 62% believe life is sacred unless we're discussing the war, the death penalty or gun laws, 44% say that evolution is only a
theory, 53% that Saddam was involved in 9/11 and 61% of you crazy bastards believe you are people with higher morals then we lefties. Finally, we're taking the good pot, too. You can have that dirt weed they grow in Mexico
Peace out,
Blue States .... |
| Mr Blue, CA |
| 16:23 October 26 |
| When Obama accepted the democratic party's nomination in Minneapolis last summer, his wife came on stage with him wearing purple. Purple. F'n purple in Minneapolis. Obama is the better candidate to run the show. Simply, he and his people have been smarter and better at every step of this election. I like the smarter and better people to run the show. |
| G.P., CA |
| 15:12 October 26 |
Kay, nobody cares what a woman has to say in this country. Just be like all the women and place you vote for Palin and not some Nigger. Trust me if you vote for that nigger muslim piece of shit then your "voice" and your vote didnt mean shit. Shit is brown just like obama-Nigger.
WHITE POWER
kkk.com |
| O NO OREO, DC |
| 13:59 October 26 |
As a woman, I think Obama's pro-choice plan is simple and brilliant. He will leave Roe v. Wade as it is, but more importantly, he will amp up education related to sexual health and make preventative measures like birth control easier to attain to reduce the instance of abortion.
As a man, this issue might not be as important to you but I hope you will consider a woman's right to choose in your decision. |
| Kay, TX |
| 08:56 October 26 |
Ok, agreed. I have seen some fair arguments for the republicans on the other coloumn, but no one has has said anything about Sarah Palin and what would happen if she became the President? Are they choosing too ignore a scenario if that actually happens. And there's a chance it will.
Please. I need to know what ur thinking!! |
| L. Hernandez, MD |
| 00:42 October 26 |
I noticed a lot of people in the column over have criticized the scrutiny of Palin's wardrobe costing $150,000. I'll explain why:
1) The McCain and Palin camp have been quick to criticize "elitistm" and "elitism" only to have the VP candidate preaching these small town/joe six pack/anti-elitist values go on a $72,000 shopping spree at Neiman Marcus. It's not really the shopping that people are so concerned about as it is the complete betrayal of their anti-elitist/"we represent the average joe" agenda.
2) It was using donor money. Would you be happy if you donated, $25, $100 or even more to your candidate of choice only to see Sarah Palin's 8 year old daughter carrying a Louis Vuitton handbag?
3) Pure hypocrisy. Many conservatives cry "who cares?" but when it came to John Edwards $400 haircut, it was open-season for many republicans. It amazes me how people could criticize a $400 haircut but declare a $150 thousand wardrobe as "no big deal". .... |
| Anonymous |
| 00:10 October 26 |
To answer your earlier question Josh, much of these tax breaks and credits will come from 1) Closing corporate loopholes and making large corporations pay their fair share of taxes. This link will give you an idea of how much potential money from corporate taxes are being lost--
"Study says most corporations pay no U.S. income taxes"
http://www.reuters.com/article...
Beyond the massive influx of money that closing these corporate tax loopholes could create, Obama also plans on stopping the $10 billion a year war in Iraq. Heck, Iraq is currently working with an economic SURPLUS. Naturally these two things, among others, will help make the tax breaks for you and I a little more feasible. .... |
| Jim, MI |
| 22:23 October 24 |
Lori from AKQA―this site is a fake and you know it.
if you are really not using this site to make a buck...are you willing to say right here and right now that you will not put this site in your portfolio to get future work?
Sorry, but I don't see how this site adds anything new to the ongoing raging debate you can already find at millions of forums from the NY TImes to The American Spectator to The National Review, etc where you can ALREADY "hear what EVERYONE is thinking." All you've done is self-indulgently replicate what already exists on the internet.
Josh, if you really are real and not connected to AKQA― instead of soliciting opinions, why not do some real research and thinking for yourself. For starters―McCain voted with W 90% of the time. He was for the war. Obama wasn't. Look into your heart and ask yourself, how does that make YOU feel.
You leave precious little autobiographical detail about yourself which makes me think you are nothing but a ploy for Lori's portfolio.
Do you have a job? Do you pay taxes? Are you a college grad. How old are you? More importantly, can you prove it here on this forum? (Do you guarantee that you are not connected to AKQA?) I only ask because your self proclaimed apathy sounds suspiciously focus grouped to get a reaction or created based on what someone living in SF would think a hick from OH would feel. Apathy such as this could only come from someone who is either a) coming from a cushy priveleged background, and therefore need ssomething to rebel against by 'not caring', b) a fake "creative" cypher, or c) a self absorbed idiot. Are you so emotionally vapid, economically isolated and emotionally disconnected from the world around you that you truly are undecided?
I find that very hard to believe. .... |
| zach, CA |
| 19:21 October 24 |
| Anyone unselfish should NEVER vote Republican, no matter who the candidates are. Maybe just my socialist mentality... either way if you need someone to choose for you, you shouldn't vote. I will be voting Obama, but I suggest that instead of wasting your precious time at the polls, you work at a better way to gain fame other than building a website that glorifies being an uninformed american. |
| Ashe, NC |
| 04:23 October 24 |
I don't understand this whole outrage over Obama wanting to "spread the wealth around"
It was okay to pass the bailout and spread our wealth to cover the asses of investment bankers in Wall Street after their risky investments fell flat on their face? Somehow that's fine but spreading the wealth in the opposite direction so you can pay your rent, put food on your table or send your kids to college is now a crime of sorts?
Give me a break..
PS- ALL taxes are "spreading the wealth", some people tend to overlook this relevant little detail |
| Jim, MI |
|
|
Too much has been read into Obama's comment of 'spreading the wealth around'. Lets forget about that.
I just don't understand how he plans to pay for all these tax rebates without expanding the giant hole in our deficit. Does anybody know? -Josh Gross
|
| 21:47 October 23 |
| “I look at these people and can't quite believe that they exist. Are they professional actors? I wonder. Or are they simply laymen who want a lot of attention? To put them in perspective, I think of being on an airplane. The flight attendant comes down the aisle with her food cart and, eventually, parks it beside my seat. "Can I interest you in the chicken?" she asks. "Or would you prefer the platter of shit with bits of broken glass in it? To be undecided in this election is to pause for a moment and then ask how the chicken is cooked." |
| David Sedaris, CA |
|
|
I love david sedaris. And i enjoyed reading his comments about undecided voter. Hilarious, coming straight from the master of self-deprecation. I hope he actually decides to vote from his self-imposed exile in France. -Josh Gross
|
| 21:25 October 23 |
To Aubrey,
I couldent give shit less what obama's plan is to lead this country. And i couldnt give a shit less on what his or your heritage is. Obama is a negro, and every negro in my book is a nigger. so yes im gonna post because i like to let it be known that i dont like obama or niggers in general.
WHITE POWER!!!
SAVE OUR LAND, JOIN THE KLAN
kkk.com |
| O NO OREO, DC |
| 20:55 October 23 |
This is a reply to Kelly, CA
(from the McCain side)
I don't want to speak for Josh, but I can see why someone can find a seemingly frivolous post like:
'the rest of the world will respect us more' helpful. I'm from Singapore and we've always had a lot of respect for America until Bush took over. We look at the US as a progressive country (my my cosmopolitan friends from my small country can attest to that) but Bush's cowboy approach to foriegn policy has left us disillusioned.
A leader like Obama will help renew the internationalrespect for your coutry. |
| Nelson M from Singapore |
| 20:44 October 23 |
| sara palin. she's worse than walter mondale. and she spent a whopping 150k on her warddrobe. even the women voters don't want her. |
| No McPain, CO |
| 20:40 October 23 |
Obama has a proven track record on public display of working to reach solutions that all sides can support, or at least accept as well-intended leadership.
One example in state senate, was death penalty reform. He supported the death penalty in exceptional circumstances, but wanted all interrogations to be videotaped. Initially viewed as highly controversial, Senator Obama listened to all sides of the debate, incorporated ideas from many individuals, and the result was a bill that passed the Senate 58-0, and was signed into law by a governor who originally opposed Senator Obama's bill. |
| B. Elliot, IL |
| 18:45 October 23 |
For those of you who think it's "Impossible" to be undecided, here's a nice thoughtful post from another undecided voter.
http://megroberts.wordpress.co... |
| Miranda, CA |
|
|
Thanks, I couldn't have put it in better words. -Josh Gross
|
| 17:50 October 23 |
To Lance (and Josh), concerning a "free market"
McCain is not a proponent of a "free market." Nor are Republicans. It's impossible under the current political structure. |
| Andrew, CA |
| 17:05 October 23 |
Zach,
It's LORI Nygaard. Do I know you? You seem to know a lot about me...or think you do anyway! :) This site has nothing to do with AKQA. Or advertising. I happen to work at AKQA and I happen to work in advertising. It's my job. Josh, some other friends and I made it because we wanted to know why people are voting the way they are--an open forum, AND because Josh is undecided we thought it could help him to hear what EVERYONE is thinking. If you can give me some helpful hints on how to make $ off of it, let's talk!
Thanks so much for your concern about our site. |
| Lori Nygaard, CA |
| 16:00 October 23 |
This is a response to a question- to all those others who didn't see said, question, please feel free to scroll down to my other post
Anonymous- In response to your question- There are a million ways aside from Ad revenue to profit from sites such as these as well as to eventually market other sites, create buzz, Public relations and promotions...
To further that thought, I think someone ought to ask Josh Why his site is registered to Laurie Nygard who lives in San Francisco and works for AKQA (A huge advertising agency) |
| Zach, CA |
| 14:06 October 23 |
| I don't really know either...It's like a waste of time...We elect Obama he gets shot.We elect McCain he has a heart attack its a lose lose but I don't think Sara Palin can lead this country so Obama for the win! |
| Nick, MA |
| 11:52 October 23 |
Zach in CA,
how would you find this site to be for economic or political gain? i don't see any ads...please explain... |
| Anonymous |
| 11:50 October 23 |
Let's just look at the way they've run their campaigns.
For someone who's "inexperienced," Obama has run the smoothest, best-organized, and most profitable campaign in US history.
Whereas at every turn, McCain has resorted to desperate gimmicks (Palin), exaggerations (the socialist crap), and outright slander (Ayers and terrorism connections) to try to pull votes from the fearful and ignorant.
Happily, this time it's not going to work. |
| Paul, WI |
| 10:00 October 23 |
In reference to the comment posted below:
I am embarassed that you are a citizen in this country and can actually participate in the election.
Furthermore, that you are so proud to voice your opinion on a blog to get reactions out of people you don't know. I bet you are an outstanding citizen that contributes so much to our country. HA! If you are not here to state facts than you should not be "helping Josh Decide" becasue you aren't helping. You are only making ALL of us look ignorant. You wonder why our counrty is in the state that it is in. Are you afraid of what may happen if Senator Obama is elected president becasue of his skin color? I would be afraid if I were you posting comments like that. Senator Obamas ancestry is Scottish, Irish, Cherokee, and Lueo of Kenya. Now I am both Irish and Cherokee and neither have shaped my way of life. I would be concerned that the association he had with his Kenyan people was his father who abandoned him was killed in an accident and left behind 3 wives and numerous children. Do you think that would sway your views? Have you heard Obama speak about people regardless of race that do not do for themselves? I am an American. We are all americans and we are suppossed to be united. It is okay if we have different views or beliefs but to be uneducated is dangerous and to be biast based on race is frightening. Do you even know where Obama stands on his views? .... |
| Aubrey, OH |
| 06:19 October 23 |
To L,
The day i help a nigger get into office is when the Klan is running this country. I can dream..I can dream. |
| O NO OREO, DC |
| 00:33 October 23 |
| He looks like a nice lil bear cub and he's black yung thugs!!! |
| Louisa, TX |
| 00:30 October 23 |
| He's black! |
| Alex Akers, TX |
| 23:41 October 22 |
Dear O NO in DC,
Thank you so much. You are so helping our cause! Next, why not make phone calls for Obama in swing states? We could use your help. Just go to barackobama.com
And thanks again! |
| L, MI |
| 21:46 October 22 |
| CDOG, your a nigger |
| O NO OREO, DC |
| 21:30 October 22 |
Josh,
First off, this is a great forum. Objective discourse is what this is all about and this is a refreshing vehicle for that.
I am going to put it in my own words here;
*1*
I believe in objective politics. If you believe in self determination, then you just have to "know thyself" in order to make government reflect you, and not just some faceless ideal. If you know what YOU want, you have objectivity. Call it the virtue of selfishness, but also understand that a lot of people out there are JUST LIKE YOU. So it's ok to stop talking "we" and start talking about "I" (which is you)
With that as your motivating force, you can cut through the bullshit. Let's begin:
*1* Obama is a socialist
He's a moderate in every sense of the word. Talking heads like to call him the "3rd most liberal senator". That might be a valid argument in this day and age IN AMERICA. But America is, by all practical measure, a right wing country. By Right Wing I mean as in Nationalism, not conservatism. Power continues to consolidate and behave in an aggressive fashion.
Objectivity Check: Do you want a continued consolidation of capital power?
If your representing the people, as a Senator is supposed to do, chances are you are going to be socially conscious. Even in this regard, Obama is a moderate to a fault. His ideas of checks and balances, and his repudiation of things like Wire Tapping all fall into classic constitutional conservatism.
Other issues that fall into constitutional conservatism are protecting the minority, whether they be gay rights or his concern of violations of privacy. It's not all just gun rights ya know.
*2* He spends like a liberal
Obama's tax cuts pretty much speak for themselves. If you are middle class or lower, your going to see lower income taxes.
Only 5 of the past 40 budgets have been surpluses. All 5 were by Democratic presidents. Republican have a spending problem. You can't be a fiscal conservative and spend like a sugar daddy.
Objectivity Check: When you consider the top expenditures in America, what would YOU rather see that money going to?
*Health and Human Services (Medicare, Social Services, Education)
*Department of Defense (Military)
*The Treasury (Cash Flow, Crediting the Economy)
*Social Security (Retirement)
Here is how I see it:
*Health and Human Services - stuff government is supposed to do that none of us could do on our own, ya know, being helpful.
*Department of Defense - giving money away to the private sector to develop experimental toys (trained dolphin para-military!) while army guys still gets unarmoured humvees and guns that jam up.
*The Treasury - this is the worst welfare; corporate welfare, i.e. where irresponsible businessmen get to be saved from ever screwing up
*Social Security (Retirement) - like a 401k that doesn't devalue 30% in six weeks
Everyone of these is about 600+/- Billion of our taxes. Obama will go over it line by line. Maybe we can spare, say, a corporate bailout and buy us some health care! Seems extreme, but all of those other "Socialist" nations seem to manage it ok, AND they still get to drive cadillacs!
*3* Obama is weak on defense
Republicans are great at spending money on military research (not on the actual military) and "defense contractors". None of this makes America safer. Unfortunately, our last democratic president was quite good at opening foreign bases around the world too. Regardless, Obama promises to increase both diplomacy and foreign intelligence. You have to remember that it's the Republicans that thought consolidating all of it under the Department of Homeland Security was a good idea, along with slashing that budget only to give "defense contractors" more money. The DHS has failed miserably to tighten post 9-11 security such as weak ports and boarders. Obama continues to make these a priority. It's also critical to note that the department of justice has been under funded and plagued with partisan politics and in-fighting as a direct result of Republican operatives.
It also goes without saying that Iraq has greatly weakened the security of the most volatile places in the world. Obama is the FIRST major public figure to grow some balls and talk about face-off style diplomacy in engaging the legitimate government that can help solve these issues (Shiite dominated nations like Iran and Syria) in stabilizing the Shia majority Iraq. McCain is too busy saving face with the rabid masses to address these types of hard hitting issues.
To top it all off, the last head of diplomacy, Colin Powell, is backing Obama. I.E. even he, a hawk in his own right, thinks Obama could handle this better!
*4* Obama is inexperienced
Yes, yes he is.... at Government. He is terribly inexperienced and being an open hand to lobbyists everywhere. He's pretty inexperienced at being a political pushover. Fortunately he is incredibly experienced at being personally successful and getting things done. He's quite amazing, actually, at getting smart and very experienced people behind him. Think thats a joke? Try convincing them to let go of $500+ million. Having Warren Buffet as an associate is not an easy accomplishment, even if I don't care for the guy.
McCain was so unsuccessful as raising campaign money that the RNC has to prop him up. It's no wonder why he is selling out to their rhetoric. He got bought what he himself could not afford - Himself for president!
McCain is clearly more tied to lobbies, and has used them to stay in power for this long on relatively weak platforms. He is THE politician, in every aspect of the cliche, for better or worse.
My major personal and very "selfish" concern is WHERE AMERICA HAS COME TO. It's not a country for the people by the people who CARE about people. It's a country with hyper nationalism rhetoric and an insane military empire. It's about treating rich executives like they are feudal lords who can do no wrong because the treasury will bail them out.
All the whole income disparity is so bad in the US that we are only beat by Mexico and Turkey! .... and they say socialism is bad for us? I think there is a LONG leap from the former USSR to just plain old sharing! We could use a little socialism right now! Hell, we already have the gulags, it can't be any more like the soviet empire already!
Still, the worst part is the thoughtless nationalism. We are no longer a people for the people, but a people for the nation. A lot of people have been quoting John Adams lately, as conservatives like to do. But I think they ought to consider themselves when he said "Fear is the foundation of most governments". That is exactly what America is turning into, and far faster than it is becoming a socialist behemoth.
Obama is not the christ and savior, but he is objectively more on par with what YOU need from a president.
It's not about "character" and its not about who you would rather go bowling with. It's about which guy who can actually make Government useful again (and not just good at tearing it down and wishing it wasnt so "big"). Thats guy is Obama. .... |
| Micaiah Johnson, CA |
| 21:27 October 22 |
This site is a complete joke. Here are my thoughts- Whoever this Josh Character is, he should really learn how to do his own research and pick a candidate that stands for his beliefs and his opinions.
Is Josh going to let the masses sway his decision? If more people say Obama or Mcain isn't that based on their own personal ideology and hopefully, hopefully their own extensive amount of research on their own about the candidates and their parties?
Josh to me sounds like an incredibly irresponsible person who should come to his own conclusions, unless of course this site is just for economic or political gain, which more than likely it is. |
| Zach, CA |
|
|
Perhaps you should read the "About" section at the top of the page.
Perhaps you should try to help me decide by explaining who you're going to vote for.
Or I guess you can keep posting unhelpful comments that are wasting valuable space on this site. -Josh Gross
|
| 18:52 October 22 |
I write this not to ignore any of the serious issues that Americans are facing everyday, but to focus more on the character I feel the leader who will bring up out of this challenging time should possess, the character I feel Barack Obama possesses through and through:
The leader of my country needs be someone of integrity and pride in himself and his beliefs, and a leader whose beliefs are in the best interests of the greater good, not the lucky few.
A leader who exudes grace under fire, who doesn't pander to cheap blows and loaded claims in an attempt to tarnish his character.
A leader who recognizes the importance of being upfront and honest, who doesn't talk in carefully scripted, convoluted words that are subject to interpretation. A leader who doesn't offer sugar-coated promises, but rather pragmatic solutions. A leader who has the courage to say "Look, it's not going to be easy and it's not going to happen overnight, but if WE WORK TOGETHER, if we all recognize that it will take hard work and sacrifice, TOGETHER we can fix the problems that face us."
A leader who has the ability to inspire people of all ages, classes and creed to get involved, to educate themselves on issues that impact them today and tomorrow, to take an active interest in their community, their country and their world. A leader who does this not through the charisma and rank charm that seems to be a pre-requisite for being in politics, but through his genuine concern for his fellow Americans and a deep love of his nation.
A leader who listens. One who is present and engaged, who will remember your name and your story and take it upon himself to leave you reassured that he can and will do everything in his power to help.
A leader who is the first to admit he doesn't have all the answers, but makes finding a solution by examining all sides of the issue his first priority. A leader who will consult with those who are best qualified to help, regardless of party affiliation.
A leader who doesn't need to use his "roots" as a way to try and connect with us. He doesn't have to because his humility makes it clear he understands and relates.
A leader who does not put the lives, nor livelihood of the common citizen at risk for his own agenda. A leader that, in turn, makes the lives and the livelihood of the common citizen his own agenda.
A leader who will lead. And one that understands you cannot do this without first having followed. But one who while leading, will continue to follow; to will follow the dreams we all have for a today that is better than yesterday and a tomorrow that is better than today. .... |
| No L, CA |
| 15:33 October 22 |
| While not all Republicans are racists, all racists are definitely Republican. On whose side do you want to stand? |
| cdog, IL |
| 15:21 October 22 |
| People assume that McCain will help the economy... Based on what? His ties with the Savings and Loan scandal? |
| Josh, CA |
| 15:19 October 22 |
| Because we need people to believe in America again. |
| Karen West, AL |
| 09:40 October 22 |
| in reply to anonymous, the citizen of norway. i believe that the socialist/democratic system works better there because it is predominatly the same race and group of people. this tends to promote the"taking care of ones own" ideal. in america, we are so mixed and intergrouped that we have lost that sense of family, sameness, and the "glue" that binds a large group together. people here are more for themselves and their immediate family and/or small local group. as long as we come from such severe cultural differences, i do not believe it could work here. besides those facts, thats why this country was founded the way it was, so that we wouldn't live like that. for the people who don't agree with the ideals of the founding fathers should seek out a place that is right for them, if here is not. .... |
| Anonymous |
| 03:09 October 22 |
as a citizen of norway, often named "the best country in the world to live in" by the UN, i know that a social-democratic society is definitely the way to go. both of these guys are way too right-wing for me, but obama is certainly the lesser of two evils.
you should vote for obama because the ENTIRE REST OF THE WORLD WANTS YOU TO. mccain as president will extinguish the last grain of hope we had for your country redeeming itself. |
| Anonymous |
| 01:53 October 22 |
| No nigger is beautiful Paula |
| O NO OREO, DC |
| 00:00 October 22 |
| Just look at him. He's beautiful! |
| Paula, CA |
|
|
JOSH FOUND THIS UNHELPFUL
|
| 17:35 October 21 |
| Because we don't need a president who has such disrespect for his wife that he'll call her a cunt in public. To reporters. |
| Mary, MO |
| 17:25 October 21 |
| dude is pure sexy |
| obamalove, NE |
|
|
I won't be surprised if this is how many people will pick the president. -Josh Gross
|
| 16:23 October 21 |
Hi Josh,
Thaks for reading through all these.
I'm sure you've heard the news already that the distinguished Colin Powell, a Republican who has served in 3 Republican administrations, has endorsed Barack Obama. He also has a lot of criticisms of McCain, two of which were that he had an erratic response and no real solutions to the economic crisis and his choice of Sarah Palin for VP-- someone he deems clearly not fit to be president.
It's really worth checking out his appearance on Meet the Press. He's eloquent, reasoned and spot on.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v... |
| Roz, CA |
|
|
JOSH FOUND THIS HELPFUL
|
| 15:38 October 21 |
| He's a good citizen, and he never lies. He wants to lower taxes, and help people. |
| Daniel (6 Years Old), SC |
|
|
That's really mature, Daniel, if you are indeed six. -Josh Gross
|
| 15:27 October 21 |
| He seems to be the lesser of two evils. |
| Anonymous, FL |
| 14:58 October 21 |
| Because 33,390,141 Canadians wish it would be so. |
| Dave, CA |
| 14:56 October 21 |
The reasons I support Barack Obama include both specific campaign platforms and his view of the progressive future our nation, and the world, deserves. Barack Obama wants to protect our nation from further failure in Iraq in addition to attacks on our soil without being a war monger and refusing to accept that our efforts may not be making progress. Economically, Obama has supported a comprehensive look at our tax system so that our businesses, families and international connections are all evaluated fairly and equally. By pledging to simplify the tax system for middle America, a lot of people will save time and money on preparing their taxes and in a time of trouble that will be much more efficient than making Bush's deficit prolonging tax cuts permanent. Obama also has more knowledge on the energy crisis we're facing as global warming continues, and values the economic benefits of Green Jobs that could create more employment for our citizens.
All in all, I believe that he will chose the right adviser's, treat his adversaries with respect, and lead the United States out of the dark ages. .... |
| LES, MA |
|
|
JOSH FOUND THIS UNHELPFUL Les, I like the optimism in your post. But how do you know that Obama has more knowledge on the energy crisis? How does he plan on simplifying the tax code (which would be a great thing to do)? -Josh Gross
|
| 14:44 October 21 |
I POST ON THIS SIDE SO YOU CRY BABY DEMOCRATS WILL READ IT. OBAMA=NIGGER
NO NIGGERS IN THE WHITE HOUSE |
| O NO OREO, DC |
| 14:09 October 21 |
| Sarah Palin. |
| Brett, NJ |
| 14:05 October 21 |
Cause what Richard, NY doesn't realize is that all the cost he went over are operating costs - cost of doing business. That is NOT profit. And what Obama tax's is your profits. the quote is "If you make over $250,000/yr".
Say you have a business that makes $10/ day. But you have to pay bills, rent, employees etc is $8. that means you make $2 a day profit - not 10 dollars, even though people may have spent $10 in your business.
So a business that pulls in $250k and a business that makes $250k are very difference.
Plus, I'll get A LOT back in April when my tax returns come in the mail. |
| Lee, GA |
|
|
JOSH FOUND THIS HELPFUL Thanks, I'll be sure to look into that. -Josh Gross
|
| 12:32 October 21 |
| Because I'm tired of the world thinking we are ignorant, arrogant bullies. As much as McCain (and Bush) supporters like to dismiss the world view of America, we are part―a vital part―of the world and its economy. And the rest of the world favors Obama 4-1. |
| Paul, WI |
| 09:20 October 21 |
| Obama is going to change the world we live in! He is the Messiah! He is going to win, so don't waste your vote on McCain. Let's socialize the US, take away our 2nd amendment rights...let's vote for Obama! |
| Johnny Hussein Alybaba, NY |
|
|
JOSH FOUND THIS UNHELPFUL
|
| 05:17 October 21 |
Also Josh, yet another piece of McCain/Palin hypocrisy: McCain has asked the UN Russian ambassador for a campaign donation. This is quite ironic given that this is the same man that has said "Russia deserves ‘harsh treatment'"
Besides, just being absolutely laughable to grovel for campaign cash to nations you're instigating military confrontation with, this is also illegal under campaign finance law. As you can imagine this is doing great for a world reputation as well, some European officials referring to McCain as "desperate."
http://voices.washingtonpost.c...
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/12... |
| Sam, NY |
| 05:07 October 21 |
Answering your follow-up question here Josh. You asked:
"What earmarks are you referring to? I'm curious."
(In reference to my post, Sam from NY on 05:22 10/19)
From the San Francisco Gate, the bailout bill included:
-$2 million tax benefit for makers of wooden arrows for children
-$100 million tax break to benefit auto racetrack owners
-$192 million in rebates on excise taxes for the Puerto Rican and Virgin Islands rum industry
-$148 million in tax relief for U.S. wool fabric producer
-A $49 million tax benefit for fishermen and other plaintiffs who sued over the 1989 tanker Exxon Valdez spill.
You know...only the essentials.
When McCain was confronted about his passing of the bill despite him campaigning on this 'absolutely no earmarks' position, he simply stated the bill was important and should be passed. Fact is, given all the country's turmoil, economic and otherwise, there are going to be a lot of important bills in the future. Unfortunately, those too will probably receive the same treatment. .... |
| Sam, NY |
|
|
JOSH FOUND THIS HELPFUL Wow. That is scary stuff.
Thanks for following up. I'll be checking up on this. -Josh Gross
|
| 01:20 October 21 |
Well, genius, (to the guy below) whatever crazy wackaloonery you just espoused, you technically voted on the Obama side.
Party over here, y'all! |
| Mandy, TX |
| 22:13 October 20 |
God damn nigger, why does this country we live in turn their backs on its own race. by the year 2042 the white race will become the minorities of the world. If you vote for barrack hussein obama your gonna speed the process up for this to happen, let alone this guy has terroist friends. FOR ALL WHITE PEOPLE VOTING OBAMA OPEN YOUR EYES AND THINK FOR YOUR CHILDRENS CHILDREN, DO YOU REALLY WANT THEM TO BE MINORITIES. I THINK NOT.
VOTE McCAIN NOT OBAMA BIN BIDEN-that says it all |
| O NO OREO, DC |
| 21:27 October 20 |
Hey Josh -
It looks like you've gotten some great answers from both sides, so I'll try to add something that is hopefully a little new.
Obama DOESN"T have the experience McCain has - which I feel is very refreshing. McCain is too close to Bush and Bush's ideals to make the drastic changes needed to strengthen the economy and slowly extricate the troops from Iraq. As a result, we will, after eight years, finally get support back from other nations (have you noticed? They love Obama). The United States is not the superpower we once were, and we need the trust and respect of other countries to accomplish anything international.
Good luck on your decision, Josh! |
| Sav, TX |
| 18:23 October 20 |
| He can hit an outside jumper. |
| Paul, VA |
| 17:26 October 20 |
1) I make less than 250,000/ year, and he'll lower my taxes.
2) I strongly believe in a woman's right to choose.
3) I think his health care plan is better.
4) Joe Biden has great teeth. And has the qualifications and presence to make him a powerful leader if the need should arise.
5) Obama's speeches make me happy and really feel good about living in the United States of America.
6) I think he and Biden are way smarter than me, and I think that's an excellent trait in a leader.
7) I have friends who are set to deploy to Iraq, and I would like them to come home.
8) NCLB needs a gigantic revamp, and Obama says he's going to do it. McCain is planning to extend it as is. Our students are tested too much with no time to truly learn. If it continues like this, graduates will be excellent test takers with no actual knowledge to back it up. This is especially true in poor areas where schools are more dependent on hitting the test scores because their students are less likely to pass them to begin with (higher levels of ELL students, less parental support, greater need to work while in school). Sorry. I'm a teacher.
9) National Security. Living in NYC, I am very confident that not only will Obama make us safe, but that having him as president will improve our overall foreign relations.
10) His family is cute. It will be so nice to have a young family in the White House again. Picture JFK. .... |
| Amy, NY |
|
|
JOSH FOUND THIS HELPFUL especially, Point #8. Everything else sounded heartfelt. -Josh Gross
|
| 17:02 October 20 |
Even McCain admits the last 8 years have been bad, so why would you want it to continue? McCain has voted with Bush 98% of the time. We will have more of the same.
His running mate is a woman, shouldn't he be doing everything he can to raise the statues of women? Yet he believes "women's health" is limited to abortion. And he will do nothing to close the wage gap. |
| Heather M, MN |
| 16:05 October 20 |
Hey Josh,
It’s really cool that you’re doing this. I’ll try to present what I think as open-mindedly as possible.
From looking through comments, it looks like a lot of folks from both sides have given you some fact and policy-checking tools so you can make your own decision, which is totally great. One think I think is missing, which I hope I can talk about effectively, is looking at the underlying way that the candidates and their parties think about the issues, so you can see why candidates make certain decisions, and can predict where they might head towards, given the chance.
First off, I recommend reading a slim handbook by George Lakoff called “Don’t Think of an Elephant.” Lakoff explores the underlying values and morality of each of the two major parties. He’s a lifelong and obvious liberal, but it’s easy enough to sort through his advocacy and just decide on which value system he describes fits your gut instincts more. This book really helped me to clarify why I think the things I think.
From looking over some of your responses, you seem to be concerned about economics and spending (which, duh, who isn’t these days), so I’ll try my (very simplified) take on the underlying views that McCain and Obama represent and espouse.
McCain first: essentially (and again, VERY simplified), a major tenet in how neo-conservatives think about the world is that it’s easy to tell who’s “good” and who’s “bad” by looking at what rewards they’ve reaped in their life. (I remember from high school history/philosophy that this is a Calvinist way of thinking, so it’s not like this is a new or radical school of thought. But anyway--) That is, people who have amassed wealth are clearly the best people, because if they weren’t good, moral, and virtuous, then they wouldn’t have been able to amass wealth. Likewise, people who live in poverty couldn’t possibly be good, moral, or virtuous, since if they were, they wouldn’t be poor. So, in this way of thinking, it’s natural to create tax cuts that benefit the wealthy, because they deserve the tax cuts for being the best people. Likewise, it’s natural to cut social programs in order to punish people living in poverty, since it’s their own fault through lack of any virtue that they’re poor. It’s natural to create policies to keep the biggest businesses the biggest, since by being the biggest they have also demonstrated that they are the best. Likewise, it’s natural to put in place, or not remove, obstacles to creating new businesses or small businesses, since any small venture needs to prove that they have the correct virtues of guts and perseverance to succeed, and small ventures shouldn’t get handouts because they haven’t proven themselves to have any correct virtue.
Obama: essentially (and again, VERY simplified), a major tenet in how liberals think about the world is that who is “good” and who is “bad” can be determined through the actions and intentions of their life rather than material evidence, and that much of material wealth or poverty has to do with the amount of familial, social, economic, political, etc support that people have access to. In other words, since we’re all amassed in this big entity called “society,” there are actually very few actions that we can take in a vacuum. So, two people may be born with equal intelligence, discipline, passion, and drive, but one person may be born into a family with access to good schools and lots of contacts with management-type businesspeople, but another person may be born into a family with access only to the school in the nearest town that doesn’t teach advanced courses, and lots of contacts with people in the service industry. So, even though these two individuals may have the same virtues of intellect and drive, one of them already has a leg up on the other insofar as starting a business, for example. Furthermore, a virtue that is considered more important by liberal thought and less important (or even immoral) in neo-conservative thought is that of giving credit and paying your dues. So, in this way of thinking, it’s natural to create a tax system where the people who have amassed wealth due to both their own ingenuity as well as broader social, political, and/or economic advantages they may have enjoyed pay part of their success back into this broader system in order to ensure such advantages to others later on. Likewise, it’s natural to not only want to preserve social programs for those living in poverty, but also to preserve or create programs for the working & middle class to achieve their dreams as well―such as good college grant and loan programs, or tax write-offs on small business expenditures, etc. It’s natural to create policies to ensure that start-up innovation in new fields, which may be a threat to established big businesses, is rewarded to continually create new opportunity. Likewise, it’s natural to create policies to ensure that big businesses don’t take advantage of their size and power.
As you can see, these are very stylized, black-and-white kind of statements about the philosophies of each candidate’s value system. But, I think that if you take the time to think through their policy decisions as well as their rhetoric, you’ll see that this isn’t too inaccurate of a picture.
Now it comes down to it: Josh, I’m an Obama supporter and would love it if you also voted Obama. But, if your gut tells you that the McCain/neo-conservative way of thinking fits the way that you think more, then I’d be wasting my breath. Also, it looks like the things that you’ve found most helpful were specific tools and information, and (as you’ve probably figured by now) I’m kind of a big-picture thinker, so I might be wasting my breath, anyway. But here goes:
Economically, I get very nervous about the neo-conservative ideal that big business and the market can do no wrong. That kind of ideal allowed such scandals as Enron, the California energy crisis, Tyco, and WorldCom to happen, and who knows what else is going on out there. I am so very, very against shipping American jobs overseas, which is something that John McCain has never denied he would do, while Obama has specified he would fight against it. The current state of the financial sector represents this kind of neo-conservative free-wheeling irresponsibility: regulations on the housing and banking industry were loosened (while laws for people to personally declare bankruptcy were extremely tightened), and business sought to amass as much money in the books as quickly as possible, which then led to the bubble bursting. Now we’re all in this mess where I, as a taxpayer, am forced to bail out these industries with little or no punishment to these industries for their actions. It’s really the opposite of a free market: in a free market, if you make a bad business decision, you have to live with it! I understand that the bailouts were necessary to preserve the state of the economy and all, but the structure of the bailout gives zero incentive or regulation for something like it not to happen again. This is something that Obama has spoken on numerous times: that the economy and the market must become more responsible unto itself.
There’s lots of other things I could talk about, and maybe I’ll post again, if that’s allowed? But for now I’ll keep it at this because this is already really long.
Good luck with your decision!
Ooh, PS: Minnesota Public Radio has a neat thing where they ask you questions based on what candidates have said, and then they show you how your answers match up to candidates, here: http://minnesota.publicradio.o... .... |
| Eleonore, MN |
|
|
JOSH FOUND THIS HELPFUL
|
| 15:21 October 20 |
| For a new voice to help lead a new generation |
| Sarah, MA |
| 15:11 October 20 |
McCain is, quite clearly, a racist.
When Colin Powell, a Republican, announced his support for Obama, McCain said he "wasn't surprised."
He "wasn't surprised" despite there being no indication of Powell endorsing either candidate?
Or he "wasn't surprised" because Colin Powell is black?
Tsk tsk. |
| AW, GA |
| 14:32 October 20 |
| McCain is weird and old. He also whistles when he pronounces the letter "s" |
| Russell, NJ |
| 14:17 October 20 |
Read the Rolling Stone article about McCain.
...you'll understand. |
| kc, NC |
| 14:08 October 20 |
| Obama is consistent, stable has a plan compatible with the times we are in and is realistic. The economy is in the shitter, the last thing we need is four more years of anything closely related to "Bush". He has also based his campaign on his policies rather than desperate and negative attempts to win, in comparison with McCain. You can view Obama's take on things here -http://www.barackobama.com/iss... and you can view McCain's here -http://www.johnmccain.com/Info... Let's face it Josh, you have to decide which candidate is best for YOU. Good luck and best regards! |
| Lori, CA |
|
|
JOSH FOUND THIS HELPFUL I'm not convinced that the state of the economy is purely Bush's fault. (What about the House and Senate?)
Thank you for the links. -Josh Gross
|
| 13:41 October 20 |
| Because Roe v. Wade, health care reform, the endless War in Iraq, human rights, and much, much more hang in the balance. |
| J, CA |
| 13:31 October 20 |
| I think with practice he may be able to dunk. |
| chilli fries, CA |
| 13:28 October 20 |
I'm voting for Obama because in him I see a man who knows what it means to work your tail off for everything you have and everything you've achieved. I see in him a man who knows education is everything in this world and that our education system is in dire need of reform. I see a man who actually looks at the information, investigates the issue, and considers the pros and cons before making a decision on where he stands. I see someone who actually listens to his constituents. I see someone who is intelligent, articulate, compassionate, driven, and sincere. I see someone who is trying to present an honest picture of what will be required to achieve the things we are asking him to achieve. I don't agree with him 100% of the time, but I feel like it is unrealistic to expect that I would agree with any candidate 100% of the time.
I have never in my life been excited about a candidate that has run for president (least not in the 12 years since i became a legal voter), but I have been moved to be actively involved, to watch all the debates closely, to read up on the info, and to be a better citizen since Obama came on the scene.
He is not perfect, no candidate should be expected to be. He is human. But I do not hear "change" in the policies McCain is espousing. I hear more of the same and spin. He has contradicted his own declarations in the course of a single statement, during each debate, and has chosen a VP who is far from qualified to effectively lead the country. Being a "maverick" is not qualification for the most important office not just in our country but in the entire world. He has made many decisions that are so transparently simply to propel his political career and his aspiration to the presidency. He claims that he always puts his country first but choosing a running mate who is far from qualified to be VP much less be President puts us in danger so that he can pick up the famale vote. I also find it really offensive that he thinks that we women will vote for Palin simply because she is a woman, that we would chose by gender over qualifications. .... |
| Rachel, MA |
|
|
JOSH FOUND THIS HELPFUL
|
| 13:20 October 20 |
Because the last person to post on McCain's side said "he better"
Awsome. |
| Anonymous, CA |
|
|
JOSH FOUND THIS UNHELPFUL
|
| 10:53 October 20 |
McCain's class rank at a naval academy: 894 out of 899
Obama's class rank at Harvad Law: #1
Who would you rather have making complex decisions about economic policy? |
| Sarah, CO |
|
|
JOSH FOUND THIS HELPFUL
|
| 10:42 October 20 |
Because the apocalypse will happen much, much sooner if McCain is elected. Also, our standing in the global community will not improve. Education will not improve, health care will not improve. McCain wants to enact an across the board "spending freeze." This would cut funding to social and other essential programs across the country, and hurt the common man.
Obama has a background in organizing, and has built a tremendous campaign from the ground up. McCain has resorted to slanderous attacks in his desperation to attain power, and Obama has maintained a calm, neutral stance. He has the attitude of a leader.
McCain has repeatedly, bigotedly used the words "arab" and "muslim" as insults to discredit Obama, effectively ostracizing every honest, hard working arabic or muslim person living in this country. He has voted against any and every piece of legislation pertaining to support for women's issues, including equal pay!! His beliefs are archaic, his methods are questionable, and his judgment is cold, calculated, strategic... and yet, foolish. Here I am talking about Sarah Palin. Do I really need to explain how scary it would be if she became president? .... |
| melissa, MI |
| 10:38 October 20 |
The world has been changing in dynamic ways. The pursuit of economies as well as arms is at an all time high (according to the media). It is my opinion that a person capable of seeing the problems of our nation in a multi-dimensional form is key, especially when compared to traditional and current political policies especially when they relate to foreign entities. If I had both of these men at my disposal to send as my representative, it would be Obama.
I am convinced that he will introduce a new way of approaching our most pressing problems. Everything else is subordinate: race, religion, political experience. Remember that this country protects many of these subordinate issues and is the basis of our freedom. |
| Rogelio, CA |
|
|
(I don't trust the media) -Josh Gross
|
| 10:34 October 20 |
Josh, I would seriously urge you not to take advice from random people on the internet in order to decide who you're voting for. I've read through a lot of these comments. Some are well-written and helpful, but many are just opinions and distort some of the facts.
I know from your responses that you know that the silly comments about the so-called hottness factor of Palin and the "Obama is a Muslim" stuff doesn't matter. However, many of the comments about the candidates' policies, their tax proposals especially, are distorted and exaggerated.
Instead of reading this opinionated stuff, I would suggest looking into the information yourself. Factcheck.org is a great, non-partisan watch dog. They have fact-checked the three presidential debates, and nearly all of the candidates advertisements. You could also try reading the Washington Post, New York Times, Wall Street Journal, Time Magazine and other publications.
Some commenters may argue that the "Mainstream Media" is biased for one candidate or another. The fact that this claim comes from both sides is, in my opinion, enough to confirm that the reporting is unbiased.
Everything most of these commenters will say is shaded by their own personal beliefs, experiences and biases. To really know who the right candidate is for you, you should go out and get the facts and then decide for yourself. I firmly believe that.
(I put this comment under the Why Obama? section because you do not have a neutral section. I am not trying to sway you toward Obama, just toward information.) :) .... |
| Michelle, OH |
|
|
Thanks for the link. And don't worry, I'm doing my own homework, in addition to reading everyone's comments. -Josh Gross
|
| 10:25 October 20 |
| I was undecided until McCain chose Palin as VP. From everything I've seen, she is unqualified to serve as President and Obama overall is more close to my beliefs. |
| Grace, TX |
| 09:50 October 20 |
His ideas are better, because he's smarter.
He's future-thinking and not caught up in the past.
He didn't agree with 90% of Bush's policies (McCain used to say he did, and is now trying to back-track).
He'll make ending the war in Iraq a priority.
World opinion polls suggest we'll gain some international credibility back just by showing we can elect a man like him. Our allies (and thus our level of influence on the world stage) will increase.
Because McCain still believes in trickle-down economics, which we've seen doesn't work -- the guys at the top keep the money.
To ensure that Sarah Palin won't be entrusted with the highest office in the land when John McCain dies.
Because he really believes in progress for the majority of citizens, it's not just lip service used to get him in office.
Because Obama is a better option in nearly every way. .... |
| denise, CA |
| 09:49 October 20 |
| hes not a crazy old man |
| katie, PA |
| 09:14 October 20 |
| Because we need someone in the White House that is not tied to corporate pay-offs and greed, and that understands the heart of this country ARE ALLl the people and not just the top 1%. We need jobs, and security for our old age, we need health care, we need to get along with the rest of the world, we need global peace, and we need to be known for our democracy and our sound reason, not our bullheadedness. We need to be innovative and start breaking away from oil, gas, and nuclear resources to start to use our natural resources. We need to care about our next generation and stop dumbing down education. We need to listen to others and not be so arrogant and stupid. WE NEED OBAMA! |
| Deborah, AZ |
| 08:10 October 20 |
| Because he won't bend you over and "drill baby drill." |
| Anonymous |
| 08:09 October 20 |
| Well if we leave aside the usual healthcare issues I think one of the most compelling reasons is everytime there is a democrat in the whitehouse the deficit decreases (or even goes into surplus) and everytime the republicans get in the deficit goes way up. |
| James, VT |
|
|
JOSH FOUND THIS HELPFUL
|
| 08:03 October 20 |
| Because he's about hope, not fear. McCain wants you to be afraid that we'll be attacked or that the whole country is going to come crashing down, etc... Obama doesn't try to scare you into voting for him. |
| erica, OH |
|
|
JOSH FOUND THIS HELPFUL
|
| 07:59 October 20 |
| We already voted for the team we'd want to have a beer with, and while they're very charming, they didn't quite make the cut. Time to vote for the people who would beat us at Scrabble. |
| Katie, NM |
| 06:55 October 20 |
| better health care, better ebergy policies, better supreme court nominations, lower taxes |
| ralph, NC |
| 06:44 October 20 |
| Because John McCain has a good chance of dying or at least becoming ill while in office, leaving an unexperienced gov. of a state with less people then the city of New York in charge of the whole country. |
| carly, OH |
| 06:27 October 20 |
| Because McCain supporters stole my Obama signs. |
| Steve, VA |
| 04:48 October 20 |
| www.factcheck.org |
| bob, WA |
|
|
JOSH FOUND THIS HELPFUL
|
| 04:07 October 20 |
Vote Obama because I'm not American and I can't!
Your decision affects citizens of all countries. Not to put the pressure on or anything... |
| Alissa |
| 01:09 October 20 |
| It's amazing how America has made this into a race battle. The only reason that people will not vote for Obama is because of the colour of his skin. It's amazing that America can't become a citizen of the world and progress. |
| Andy, CA |
| 00:04 October 20 |
| Because people like Ted Nugent and Mike D in PA are voting for McCain. |
| Fred Jiffykins, CA |
| 22:59 October 19 |
| (P.S.) D. Yaeger of Minnesota said to go to a website to check the voting record. Keep in mind that McCain's starts in 1996 and Obama in 2005 so there will be a lot of differences. |
| Chrissy, WA |
| 22:50 October 19 |
| Nigger Nigger Baby Killer, Dont vote for this muslim piece of shit monkey. God damn Coon. Just be right and vote WHITE. |
| Ted Nugent, CO |
| 22:50 October 19 |
I've been hanging on this site for two days trying to put my words in most concise way.
General Powell said it beautifully.
http://www.fivethirtyeight.com...
He remains calm and steadfast during pressure.
Obama is a leader and would do the best job representing the USA.
From what I have seen corporations, lobbyists, congress men and more run our country. President acts as a spokesman and runs the military. So who do you feel would most likely get us peace?
I feel many Middle Eastern leaders would not be willing to negotiate with McCain when he looks and feels like Bush. Also the "Bomb Iran" joke was bad taste. |
| Chrissy, WA |
| 22:25 October 19 |
not really a "why" exactly, but it's an interesting read. taken from "succulent" posted to gawker comments on the 16th.
Ponder the following:
What if the Obamas had paraded five children across the stage,
including a three month old infant and an unwed, pregnant teenage daughter?
What if John McCain was a former president of the Harvard Law Review?
What if Barack Obama finished fifth from the bottom of his graduating class?
What if McCain had only married once, and Obama was a divorcee?
What if Obama was the candidate who left his first wife after a severe
disfiguring
car accident, when she no longer measured up to his standards?
What if Obama had met his second wife in a bar and had a long affair while
he was still married?
What if Michelle Obama was the wife who not only became addicted to pain
killers but also acquired them illegally through her charitable
organization?
What if Cindy McCain graduated from Harvard?
What if Obama had been a member of the Keating Five?(The Keating Five
were five
United States Senators accused of corruption in 1989, igniting a major
political
scandal as part of the larger Savings and Loan crisis of the late 1980s
and early 1990s.)
What if McCain was a charismatic, eloquent speaker?
What if Obama couldn't read from a teleprompter?
What if Obama was the one who had military experience that included
discipline
problems and a record of crashing seven planes?
What if Obama was the one who was known to display publicly, on
many occasions, a serious anger management problem?
What if Michelle Obama's family had made their money from beer distribution?
What if the Obamas had adopted a white child?
You could easily add to this list. If these questions reflected reality,
do you really believe the election numbers would be as close as they are?
This is what racism does. It covers up, rationalizes and minimizes
positive qualities in one candidate and emphasizes negative
qualities in another when there is a color difference.
Educational Background:
Barack Obama:
Columbia University - B.A. Political Science with a Specialization in
International Relations.
Harvard - Juris Doctor (J.D.) Magna Cum Laude
Joseph Biden:
University of Delaware - B.A. in History and B.A. in Political Science.
Syracuse University College of Law - Juris Doctor (J.D.)
vs.
John McCain:
United States Naval Academy - Class rank: 894 of 899
Sarah Palin:
Hawaii Pacific University - 1 semester
North Idaho College - 2 semesters - general study
University of Idaho - 2 semesters -journalism
Matanuska-Susitna College - 1 semester
University of Idaho - 3 semesters - B.A. in Journalism
Education isn't everything, but this is about the two highest offices in
the land as well as our standing in the world.
You make the call. .... |
| kate, IL |
| 22:10 October 19 |
Because he has a well earned college degree - did not finish like 4th from last in his class.
Does not have anything to prove like McCain, who is just trying to "up-one" on his father and grandfather.
Has good solid policies that I believe are for the better of the entire nation, not just one group.
Is well polished, calm, and very well spoken. |
| Michelle, WA |
| 22:10 October 19 |
| because he is knee grow |
| coon, OH |
| 22:04 October 19 |
| Vote for Obama, because he knows how to use e-mail. John McCain is 'learning,' |
| Will, KY |
| 22:01 October 19 |
| obama promises change. he understands constitutional law and i believe he will undo what bush has illegally done. obama has demonstrated he has the ability to breing people together. seeks common ground. |
| bob david, WA |
| 21:41 October 19 |
Because McCain is traitor to to the people of the united states. He had his and his fellow prisoner of war testimonies sealed so no one would see he was not tortured. He gave the North Vietnamese military information
on bombing runs and flight patterns of the US military effectively stopping the bombing of Hanoi and caused pilots to be killed or captured because the NVA knew the
flight paths being used.
http://www.vietnamveteransagai... |
| Satan, WA |
| 21:34 October 19 |
| If you haven't made up your mind then you are a dumbass who can't think for yourself. Obama is the new direction, the future and the guy who doesn't have 7 houses, but 1...meaning he can't afford to lose half. So I think the difference is clear. Know the facts and think for yourself. |
| Aaron, CA |
|
|
Very eloquent. Do you happen to have any other facts? Maybe some useful ones? Just curious. Thanks. -Josh Gross
|
| 21:32 October 19 |
| because Hillary Clinton told me to vote for Obama ok and I do whatever Hillary ask me to and also because I was born a democrat and catholic and I will die democrat and catholic. |
| monicaar1, CA |
| 21:19 October 19 |
| If you're still undecided you're a dumbass who shouldn't vote. |
| Dino, OR |
| 21:14 October 19 |
Josh-
My father is an attorney for a small oil business, who could use the ability to drill more offshore and in protected areas... however, it would also result in millions of cases being slammed against every company who does it.
Do you really want to see the court system even more clogged up with more oil men, and their less than urgent cases?
Obama's clean energy policies are music to me and my father, and the men he works with.
More funding for green energy could also result in small companies increasing their revenue due to spending less on heating, gas, etc which grow more and mroe expensive. |
| Lisa, TN |
|
|
JOSH FOUND THIS HELPFUL Isn't Obama "considering" drilling in Alaska as well? -Josh Gross
|
| 21:13 October 19 |
I don't want to risk Sarah Palin in the white house.
McCain is a war-monger.
Getting out of this war could easily fund all the tax cuts and then some.
McCain's education agenda is downright scary.
My choice has more to do with being afraid of McCain than loving Obama. |
| Eileen, OR |
| 21:09 October 19 |
Because he believes in equal rights, he doesn't push his religious beliefs on everyone, he's smarter, he cares about everyday people, he won't take away women's rights, he's not another Bush, he's different, he's not a war monger, he knows how many houses he owns, HE DOESN'T HAVE A BUNCH OF INBRED RACIST SUPPORTERS(see Osama reference on the right), he has good intentions, he's a great speaker, NO Palin .
CHANGE! |
| Jen, AZ |
| 21:07 October 19 |
Josh, I think it's terribly neat you're willing to listen to everyone's opinions, and learn more about the candidates before making a decision.
I think I might have gone to school with you, too, which is a bit silly!
My opinion of Obama is pretty standard.
His policies make sense to me, and I love how the campaign has made some new synonyms- Obama & Change.
A democrat as president will definitely change things, but for the better.
The economy is down the tube, and Obama has plans to fix that, while McCains tells us how he would have done something differently than Bush to avoid this.
We need to know how to solve it, which Obama will do. |
| Carly, OH |
| 21:06 October 19 |
Hi, Mr. Gross,
In the last debate, Sen. McCain reminded the world that he is not Pres. Bush, and asked why Sen. Obama didn't run against Pres. Bush four years ago. I'm wondering why Sen. McCain didn't run against Pres. Bush four years ago. If a third party had more power in 2004, the Republican Party may have been forced to do so.
The two political parties pulling on your ears have often parked their pedagogies so close to the fence that it's difficult to tell them apart anymore. We need to give power to third parties in the U.S., so that all ideologies can be more easily distinguished.
Some people do so by voting Green or Libertarian. I believe that these are meaningless votes4; because our current political system reduces these minorities to obscurity.
The appropriate way to change the balance of power between the two-party system and a multiple-party system is to enact legislative change. Such legislative change will be hindered by Sen. McCain, and perhaps barely supported by Sen. Obama.
This is no longer a country where people can vote for whomever they think is the "best candidate," but instead a country where most vote for the "lesser of two evils." This needs to change.
For these reasons, I'm voting (in pure self-interest) for Sen. Barack Obama. .... |
| Mark, CA |
|
|
JOSH FOUND THIS HELPFUL
|
| 21:00 October 19 |
Obama supports the rights of women!
We deserve to feel safe, and like we have the right to learn.
I want my daughter to know about sex, about the dangers that she could encounter, and I do not agree with the McCain/Palin 'pay for your own rape kit' idea.
Obama will also eliminate the death penalty, a good idea, due to the US being one of the last few major countries still enforcing punishments with it. |
| Carolina, AZ |
| 20:58 October 19 |
Why not?
But no, really, Josh, I pity you.
Having to sift through all of this- most of it unhelpful.
So I'll throw you a bone, or however you want to put it.
I'm voting for Obama for change.
I'm voting for Obama because of his policies, especially on foreign policy, energy issues and of course the economy (which is in such a bad state).
I have nothing against McCain.
I'm thankful that he fought for this country, and that he feels he can help us- but I don't think he can.
And frankly, Palin is woefully inexperienced and naive, trying to come off like she's standing on solid ground while it's crumbling beneath the heels she hikes in.
Obama will put money where we need it, and he will learn from the mistakes of the Bush administration. .... |
| Charlotte, NY |
|
|
JOSH FOUND THIS HELPFUL
|
| 20:57 October 19 |
Josh you wont be taxed on your health insurance, you are going to try your best to eliminate green house gasses and find an alternative power source. You know that's the answer to eliminating foreign purchasing.
Josh the answer to living well Isnt war. The real reson for that war is because of one man's greed over oil
(bush and his little buddys have ownership in those companies) |
| Adam, MN |
| 20:47 October 19 |
| Because he likes anyone named Josh. |
| Texas for Obama, TX |
| 19:48 October 19 |
www.youtube.com/user/publicfoodie
all the info you need is right there |
| Anonymous, IL |
| 19:41 October 19 |
| If I can see you naked I will vote for you josh! |
| kelemen tibor, CA |
| 19:32 October 19 |
if you're impervious to obama's greatness in general, how about this? vote barack because he isn't encouraging acts of violence against members of the other party. or, er, let me reword that--mccain isn't repudiating the threats of violence made against members of the other party. mccain's camp has stooped so low as to put his opponent's life, and the life of his family, in danger by pounding into the ground that obama's association with ayers = obama is a terrorist. obama has been completely forthcoming about his relationship to ayers, but people only hear what they want to hear. i know mccain is not personally going out there and saying "let's get rid of obama!" but he's certainly not telling the people who are to cut that crap out and be decent human beings. it's as if the mccain campaign is in complete denial about that part of life where you have to take responsibility for your actions.
also, what colin powell had to say today: http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/27...
can you not do your own leg work and read the obama and mccain web pages? everything you need to know is right there and you wouldn't have to ask us. unless you're just doing this to get your 15 minutes of internet fame.
finally, what's your stance on palin? because you know mccain is so going to kick the bucket in a year or two, which means we'll have president caribou barbie running things. if that doesn't instill fear into your very your core, then, man, i pity you. .... |
| liz, IN |
| 18:49 October 19 |
| Because once you go black ;) |
| kimmie, FL |
| 17:42 October 19 |
McCain voted 90% of the times with Bush, and now look at the mess America's in; do we want another 4 years of Bush-like policies ?
America isn't liked by the rest world, Obama would appease that, as he's an inspiration to all.
Having a president like Obama can only spur innovation, creativity, and entrepreneurship among young people : keep the American dream alive!
Let's put more money into education, let's invest in our future, let's solve this expensive healthcare mess, let's worry about the environment, let's believe in the change! |
| Vianney, NJ |
| 17:27 October 19 |
| Because he is the lesser of two evils (the greater being McCain). |
| Savannah, IN |
| 16:31 October 19 |
| It's amazing how America has made this into a race battle. The only reason that people will not vote for Obama is because of the colour of his skin. It's amazing that America can't become a citizen of the world and progress. |
| Andy, CA |
| 16:29 October 19 |
| Because America will make a global fool of itself (again) if its people choose McCain/Palin. Even their own party would vote for Obama! |
| AA, CA |
| 16:06 October 19 |
| Palin is f-in hot! And lets face it - we definitely need an upgrade from our previous VP.. |
| Sean, NY |
| 15:17 October 19 |
We have a huge pile of problems in this country (and in the world). No one person can fix them all, no matter how great that person is. But I have seen that Obama inspires people, and I believe that he can change the tone. As a country, we have a history of doing so many amazing things, and we can solve a lot of problems if we work hard.
I think we became apathetic (with good reason), and we need to snap out of it and become informed citizens again. I truly believe that Obama can transform us in that way, and there is nothing that we Americans cannot do if we come together with collective energy and common purpose.
I am 46 years old, and never in my lifetime have I seen people so interested and willing to participate in making things better, because of how Obama inspires them. For me, this was the deciding factor, when I was looking at all of the candidates during the primary season. .... |
| Lisa, MN |
| 14:18 October 19 |
Obama has a better handle on the issues that affect the average person. He has better values and ideas when it comes to foreign policy. He has the temperament to lead and to face down challenges.
Obama will end the war in Iraq, pursue sane energy policy, and work hard to turn this economy around for the average person.
"Problems cannot be solved at the same level of awareness that created them."
Albert Einstein (1879 - 1955) |
| Richard, MA |
| 14:16 October 19 |
| I don't love either of the candidates but i am for Obama because i think he will do the least damage to our country. Too bad I'm not old enough to vote. |
| Michelle, GA |
| 13:45 October 19 |
| Yout should vote for Obama because well I can't (I'm not old enough). And McCain would just make our country worse. |
| Sienna, CO |
| 13:12 October 19 |
| We need a smart rational mind in the White House,we don't need a closed-minded stubborn president like we have right now |
| Dre, AL |
| 12:11 October 19 |
| Hit shits rainbows and pees pixie sparkles. |
| Brad, PA |
| 11:07 October 19 |
| Because he'll make our country a place to believe in again. |
| Ross, CA |
| 09:13 October 19 |
| Why Obama? Because he wants to lead our nation into something better than what it has been led into for the lasy 8 years. McCain is in this race because, well, someone has to be on the Republican ticket. |
| Kim, TX |
| 09:07 October 19 |
Don't forget, Josh:
No one, no one, not ONE of us, ever, anywhere, at all, is "pro-abortion".
Again: NO ONE is "pro-abortion".
If the issue of abortion is important to you, then let's all agree that we need to have fewer unwanted pregnancies. That means better education. That means science. That means working WITH religious programming, and not against it.
Not one of us is "pro-abortion". NO ONE. |
| Charley, TX |
| 09:03 October 19 |
| Its time we had a smart person leading the country. Someone calm, cool, collected, ready to THINK through a crisis and not just react based on their gut. The last debated demonstrated Obama would be the one to do that. |
| Jen, MI |
| 07:37 October 19 |
| Because he's just so much better. |
| Marta, NY |
| 07:13 October 19 |
| It's a gamble with either candidate, but put your money on Obama. Things could go very well with him as our president, but right now anything looks good. |
| colin powell, MD |
| 07:01 October 19 |
| It's a no-brain-er after "W" destroyed this country in the 8 years he was in office(and you can't tell me that election wasn't rigged). Its these old white rich Republican ass holes -rich get rich poor get poorer(if that's possible).Makes me want to leave the country.He knows what its like to work for what you want & not have it handed it to him on a freakin' silver platter.So is it even an option to have another republican in office again? Look at their(all of them) track record! Learn from the mistakes! |
| Missie Martinchek, PA |
| 05:48 October 19 |
| John McCain anally raped my dad. |
| Fred Claws, PA |
| 05:38 October 19 |
McCain/Palin's views on women's rights are completely horrific. The fact that that is even a question is shocking. I know that you aren't a female but I'd venture to say that you have close friends and family members that are...how scary is it to think that they would lose control over their bodies and themselves? That some stranger who wants to force us to have the same religious beliefs as them (in a country where our ability to believe DIFFERENT things is what makes us great) is going to dictate what I do with my body and my life. That is the opposite of freedom.
Because the possibility that McCain could pass away and that INSANE, UNQUALIFIED woman could become our president is one of the scariest things I've ever thought about. No one in the country can possibly risk that happening. .... |
| Emi, NY |
| 05:22 October 19 |
One of the main contentions that McCain supporters use to support their choice is by attacking Obama for wanting to "redistribute" wealth saying McCain wouldn't do that.
Yet McCain helped create and subsequently passed the $700 billion bailout plan that used all our taxpayers money to bail out Wall Street.
So not only did he "distribute" the wealth in a reverse-Robin Hood manner of stealing from the poor and giving to the rich, but the bill was also full of these infamous "pork barrel earmarks" that he time and time again claims he would *never* support.
Basically, he's already "redistributed wealth", just in the past few weeks no less. He also didn't seem to have any problems passing it with all those earmarks that he campaigns ever so heavily against. .... |
| Sam, NY |
|
|
What earmarks are you referring to? I'm curious. -Josh Gross
|
| 22:41 October 18 |
| lets retype this....if he had 2 horns growing off the top of his flat head and that smile grinning from ear to ear he wud look just like the devil...now where did i put that pitch fork at ? |
| Anonymous, SC |
| 22:39 October 18 |
| make that smile |
| Anonymous, SC |
| 22:38 October 18 |
| Why >?...if he had 2 horns growing off the top of that flat head and that mile grinning from ear to ear he would like just like satan |
| Anonymous, SC |
| 22:01 October 18 |
| he's cute |
| mariaaaaa, AK |
| 21:59 October 18 |
Have you not seen him? His smile could seriously solve all of the world's problems..
Okay, just kidding. I just think that we don't need another Bush in office, and as cheesy as it sounds, we do need change. |
| Katie, MN |
|
|
JOSH FOUND THIS UNHELPFUL
|
| 19:56 October 18 |
| he owns, y'all |
| Andrew Kornfeld, NY |
| 19:18 October 18 |
| The reason you should vote for Obama over McCain is a personal decision. I really can't tell you if my reasons would be applicable to you or not. I for one support Obama mainly for his stance on equality and family planning. Obama supports civil unions for homosexual couples as well as the Michael Sheppard Act and legislation to add homosexuals to the protected classes under the Employee Nondiscrimination Act. He is also pro-choice and would nominate less conservative judges into the Supreme Court... something McCain would never do. If you want Roe v. Wade and Lawrence v. Texas to go flying out the window then McCain is your man. If not, I would go with Obama. |
| Ian W, TX |
| 17:59 October 18 |
| because sarah palin just seems like a terrible person. |
| shannon hallett (canada) |
| 17:08 October 18 |
1. Obama supports a woman's right to choose what happens to her own body.
McCain (and especially Palin) believe that the government should make that decision for her. (apparently opposition to "big government" only applies when it's convenient to them)
2. McCain supports the death penalty (and yet he is anti-abortion rights). If that's not hypocrisy I don't know what is.
Obama does not support the death penalty (we are the only industrialized country that still has it, btw).
3. If McCain is elected, Palin, let's remember, will be very close to the presidency; McCain is the oldest presidential candidate ever in American history and has one of the most deadly forms of cancer there is. She was clearly chosen simply because she is a woman (and McCain wanted to pander to Hilary Clinton's supporters), because she has nothing else going for her except her XX chromosome. And yet, when she was mayor of Wasila she enacted the policy of making the victims of sexual assault PAY FOR THEIR OWN RAPE EXAMS!! Could we ever need more proof that this woman is not a friend to the female gender??
Joe Biden is an extremely experienced, intelligent person who I would feel very comfortable having as my president if needed.
4. Obama has stated exactly what he will do to increase troops and stability in Afghanistan and Pakistan (you know- the region where the 9-11 plot was actually put together?),
whereas McCain has refused to say anything specific about what he plans to do in that area.
5. McCain's stated environmental policies are a bit better than Bush's (though that's not hard to do), but they still are clearly cow-towing to the oil and gas industry. The fact is, oil is going to disappear, a lot sooner than most of us realize. We cannot continue to rely on it as a source of energy, and yet McCain-Palin continue to pretend that drilling off-shore and in protected wildlife areas for oil will solve the energy crisis- ridiculous.
Obama is actually talking about (and planning to fund) what really needs to be focused on- alternate sources of energy: wind, solar, etc. These measures will actually wean us off of foreign (AND domestic) oil, and will markedly help improve the environment.
6. Obama would fund universal pre-school, which is a proven factor in the success of students, all the way through high school. He will also increase teacher wages, and provide a $4000 tax credit to help students pay for college. Obama will pay for his plan by ending corporate tax deductions for CEO pay (I can't believe these even existed in the first place!).
McCain thinks that providing vouchers for a FEW kids to attend private school and pushing "competition" among public schools will improve things- so ridiculous. Schools are not businesses- they are providing our country's future. McCain has said repeatedly that he will put no more money into education.
7. Obama will mandate health insurance for every American child. For adults, health insurance will work the same as it currently does for federal employees.
McCain says he will give a $5000 tax credit to families for health insurance, and his plan will effectively prevent a lot of employees from continuing to get health insurance through their employer. My family health insurance plan (an HMO, by the way) costs $14,500 a year. Where will the other $9,500 come from? Our pockets, of course.
8. The McCain-Palin has been an embarassment, even for a political campaign. They continue to avoid focusing on real policy issues (because they probably know theirs don't hold up to Obama's, especially in the current economic state), and instead are focused on character assasination and playing to the worst in humanity. They lie and mis-lead voters about Obama's record and personal history, saying things like "he doesn't see America like you and I do" (wink, wink) and that he "pals around" with terrorists. Their incendiary tactics have led to things like "terrorist!" and "kill him!" to be repeatedly called out by their supporters at rallies- which they do not speak up against. Most people that I have personally spoken to who support McCain (I'm not saying this applies to all McCain supporters). Think that Obama is a Muslim (he's not) and ignorantly associate that with being somehow un-American or even a "terrorist." It's disgusting and makes me angry for the sake of this country that I love. Racists and ignorant fools should not be the "base" that any politician seeks to garner votes from. .... |
| Jill, OH |
|
|
JOSH FOUND THIS HELPFUL
|
| 16:53 October 18 |
| Because he offers oral sex. |
| Elena, NJ |
| 16:15 October 18 |
If you make less than $250,000 a year, your taxes will go down significantly under an Obama administration. He will not continue the failed "trickle-down" economic policies that were put into place at the beginning of the Bush administration that were one of the indirect causes of this economic recession.
His health care plan makes SO MUCH more sense than McCain's.
He is intelligent, charismatic, and eloquent. While I don't doubt that McCain is intelligent, he is woefully ignorant on key issues that matter a lot when you intend to run the country.
On cultural and social issues, Obama's views and priorities are much closer to most Americans' than McCain's.
His election as our president will do SO MUCH to improve our standing and integrity in the world community. Obama is extremely popular world-wide, and a lot of people currently think Americans are weird, stupid or both for electing (twice!) George W. Bush, clearly the worst president we've had in at least the last century.
Obama also end the "cowboy diplomacy" that has characterized the foreign policy of the last 8 years, leading to the loss of the great amount of world-wide support (from allies and "enemies") that the country had after the tragedy of 9-11.
Can we finally have a black president?!! Thank you!
McCain agrees (and has voted) with Bush on almost everything. 'Nuff said. .... |
| Erin, MA |
|
|
These are all very "feel good" reasons to vote for Obama. But do you have any facts? -Josh Gross
|
| 16:14 October 18 |
| Because McCain has a blinking problem. |
| Kim, GA |
| 15:34 October 18 |
| Because he is black. |
| Jerome, NC |
| 15:19 October 18 |
| because, damn it |
| joe, WA |
| 14:42 October 18 |
| Because Hillary didn't win the nomination. |
| Pam, MD |
| 14:06 October 18 |
| Obama is the epitome of what this country needs. He is known for his calm demeanor as opposed for McCain who is known for his bad temper. Also, in these rough economic times and eight straight years of a bad presidency, it is time for a democratic change, yes I said "CHANGE", in the right direction. |
| Becky, FL |
| 13:49 October 18 |
| He represents the possibility of America forming a healthy relationship with the rest of the planet, rather than being someone who presents agression as the means to solve problems. He also appears to be in touch with the concerns of a broader selection of the electorate than his opponent - this speaks for itself. |
| Benn |
| 13:41 October 18 |
| Change |
| Sara, CA |
| 13:37 October 18 |
| Because if he dies, his VP won't screw things up horribly for us all. |
| Kirsten, TX |
| 12:58 October 18 |
| You can tell where people are in life by those they surround themselves with. A quick trip to YouTube and googling "McCain rally" will bring up a video that pretty much says it all - where McCain supports are afraid of an "Arab" like Obama. McCain has run a hate campaign, and thus his supporters have been the ignorant, the racist, and the misguided. Obama has run an honorable campaign - practically spotless, especially in comparison with any other president to run (EVER). He could've easily taken the Palin shot when the media found out about her pregnant unwed daughter, but he didn't. I'm a "nature of the times" voter - neither Democrat nor Republican. I think sometimes it is time for change and other times it is best to be fiscally conservative. The Republicans have had 8 years of presidency, and it's gotten us nowhere. It's time for the Democrats to try it out. .... |
| Piper, CA |
| 12:55 October 18 |
| Two words: Sarah Palin |
| Samara, PA |
| 12:27 October 18 |
Because after the last 8 years, we could really use an inspiring leader. Someone who will be a voice for the average American citizen as opposed to the upper 10%.
Because every American deserves adequate health care coverage, because education needs to be made more of a priority, because LGBT couples deserve the same rights as all other married couples, because we need to maintain a separation of church and state, because we need to protect the environment before it's too late, because our troops need to come home (especially considering the amount on money being spent on the war in Iraq - a huge factor in the current economic crisis).
Because the US used to be respected on the world stage and I'm tired of being a punch line among other strong nations.
Because I'm sick of the government using social issues that aren't even issues of contention anymore in most other G8 nations to distract us from larger injustices.
Honestly though, I think the best reason for why Obama should be the next president is because he makes me believe in the USA again. He is hopeful and motivating and enables me to take pride in my country. .... |
| Amy, NV |
|
|
JOSH FOUND THIS HELPFUL
|
| 11:43 October 18 |
HOW CAN YOU BE UNDECIDED???????????
Undecided people baffle me more than McCain supporters!!!! |
| Yogi Bear, CA |
| 11:38 October 18 |
McCain Can stick it! He will ruin us all.
Wipe that smirk of your face you creep ball! |
| Trunkie, CA |
| 11:37 October 18 |
Bottom up approach for a fair, effective, and efficient society!
Focus on EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION!!
Solid foundation across the nation! |
| Shlomie that smile, CA |
| 10:52 October 18 |
| He won't die in office leaving a half-retarded lying moose wrangler in charge. |
| McCain has melanoma, NY |
| 10:05 October 18 |
| I've never really cared about issues. I go with my gut. My gut has had it's fill of republicans. It's time for dessert. |
| Donkeys are cool, IL |
| 10:01 October 18 |
| Because our standing in the world sucks, we're mired in two wars with a possible third on the horizon, our economy is shit, we've let domestic terrorism go in our rush to kill all the A-rabs, the government is listening to ALL your phone calls and watching what you say on the internet and in your email, the middle-class homeless is growing, there'll be more hurricanes in the next four years, there'll be at least one Supreme Court opening, and America's infrastructure has disintegrated under the Republicans for the last eight years. I don't know about you, but that's enough for me...and there's plenty more, I just don't have time to write it all. |
| JC, TX |
| 09:30 October 18 |
| No matter how you decide to vote on Nov 4th, please PLEASE check the facts these people are throwing at you before you do. There's some outrageous stuff in these posts. Good luck! |
| D, MN |
| 09:09 October 18 |
| I've never really cared about issues. I go with my gut. My gut has had it's fill of republicans. It's time for dessert. |
| Donkeys are cool, IL |
| 08:25 October 18 |
| I hate republicans |
| Jennifer, NC |
| 08:25 October 18 |
| Obama is the first politicians who has made me want to be an American. It institutes American pride and a congruency amongst all American's that has been missing in our society of "me me me" |
| S, CA |
| 08:21 October 18 |
| Because McCain's a douchebag. |
| Lenaa, FL |
| 07:49 October 18 |
| Putting aside everything else for a moment: Sarah Palin is nowhere near experienced enough to become "just a heartbeat" away from the Office of the President. I firmly believe that she was chosen only because she was a woman since I see no merit in her "achievements" that would make her the obvious choice for the first woman VP. The thought of her being in office frankly scares me, and I think it would be a crushing blow to women everywhere. We need a woman in office because she can do the job correctly, not just because she is a woman. That's why Obama (not to mention a thousand other reasons.) |
| Cloverrae, CA |
| 07:36 October 18 |
| Do you want 8 more years of Republican "leadership" flushing this country down the drain? |
| Stormgiant, TX |
| 07:21 October 18 |
| hawt |
| Lizzy, IL |
| 06:18 October 18 |
Check out this AP report:
Analysis: McCain jumps around in bid to stop Obama
By BETH FOUHY, Associated Press Writer Beth Fouhy, Associated Press Writer
NEW YORK – The misadventures of Joe the Plumber were just the latest stumble for Republican John McCain as he veers from one idea to another in a thus-far elusive quest to slow Barack Obama's momentum.
Joe Wurzelbacher was supposed to be the Republican presidential candidate's ace in the hole ― an average, working-class Joe whose dreams of something better might be thwarted by Obama's plans. The Ohio plumber challenged Obama's tax policies and got the Democratic presidential nominee to say he wanted to "spread the wealth around." McCain told Wurzelbacher's story at the final debate Wednesday in a bid to paint Obama as a tax-raiser out of touch with regular Americans.
But Wurzelbacher's story didn't quite hold up under inspection: He isn't licensed as a plumber in an Ohio county that requires one. He owes $1,200 in unpaid taxes. The dream purchase of the plumbing company where he works is a long way off no matter who wins the election. McCain acknowledged Thursday he hadn't ever spoken to the man he'd suddenly made a central figure in his quest for the presidency; McCain didn't speak with Wurzelbacher until Friday.
"Sorry, Joe," the Republican hopeful said Thursday on "The Late Show" with David Letterman for bringing Wurzelbacher a tornado of public attention he never sought.
The McCain campaign has always felt more improvisational than Obama's well-oiled machine, and the Arizona senator's years as a Navy pilot left him with a taste for daring feats. But recently, with polls showing McCain trailing Obama in several battleground states, his campaign operation has muddied McCain's message and complicated his efforts to gain ground.
Policy proposals have been floated and postponed. Lines of attack have been launched, then abruptly changed. And Joe the Plumber, like Sarah Palin before him, was pushed onto the national stage without a complete examination.
"When you run a campaign without a strategy and everything becomes tactical and your tactics don't work, you respond by finding other tactics," Republican consultant Ed Rollins said. "Unfortunately, that's helped Barack paint the guy who is clearly better prepared to be commander in chief as erratic and not stable."
McCain has always said he prefers to be the underdog, and he rolled out a feisty speech this week vowing a spirited fight to Nov. 4. But he has at times also seemed exasperated with the state of affairs.
In an interview with a North Carolina television station this week, the Arizona senator said he didn't know when he would return to the battleground state. "You know, my schedule lurches from day to day," he said, an edge in his voice.
Republican pollster John McLaughlin said the McCain operation is undergoing an experience very common among campaigns in their closing days.
"It's the thrashing between the events you can't control and what the proper message for the campaign should be," McLaughlin said. "In the past week, we've seen the McCain campaign thrashing."
McCain aides, meanwhile, carry on their duties with an acute sense of grievance against the national media, a group the candidate once jokingly referred to as his base.
On the campaign plane, aides berated a reporter for The New York Times after an editing error wrongly suggested McCain hadn't pushed back against a supporter's claim that Obama was an Arab. And a Reuters photograph released after the debate that captured a calm Obama next to McCain in a goofy, flailing pose reduced one aide to tears.
On a conference call with reporters Friday, campaign manager Rick Davis lamented that "there's not more pressure and more scrutiny from the media" on Obama's ties to the Association of Community Organizations for Reform Now, or ACORN, whose voter registration efforts are being investigated in several states and by the FBI. Obama has said the group isn't involved in his campaign's registration drive.
Indeed, Obama's relationship to ACORN is one of several arguments McCain aides hope will stick against the Illinois senator. But McCain moves from one attack to another without creating a consistent narrative about his rival.
Last week, both McCain and Palin spoke out against Obama's loose association with ex-radical Bill Ayers a quarter-century after Ayers co-founded the violent Weather Underground, which protested the Vietnam war with bombing of government buildings. But the running mates mostly dropped Ayers from their stump speeches this week, though the campaign made automated "robo calls" into some states linking Obama to Ayers.
The financial crisis has also bedeviled McCain as polls show voters believe Obama would do a better job handing the economy. And McCain this week stepped on his own effort to unveil new proposals to help seniors and middle-class homeowners weather the crisis.
Last Sunday, aides hinted McCain would offer new proposals and McCain's close friend South Carolina Sen. Lindsay Graham told CBS' "Face the Nation" that McCain would likely announce them soon. But on Monday, aides said McCain would have nothing until later in the week while Obama outlined new plans that day to help seniors cope with the market meltdown.
McCain finally released his proposals Tuesday, which made it appear he was playing catch-up to Obama and put his speech in competition with President Bush's announcement the government would spend $250 billion to buy partial ownership of leading banks.
"Everything that can go wrong in the last three weeks usually does, so you need to stay very, very calm and not let the wheels come off." Rollins said. "You've got to pick your strategy and stick with it. Now's the time to be disciplined."
___ .... |
| Jay, MA |
| 06:15 October 18 |
Josh,
I think anyone would agree that McCain's campaign is a bit erratic. It seems to be full of gimmicks too: "Joe the unlicensed, tax owing, not-really-a-plumber", Sarah "Abused her Power" Palin aka "Caribou Barbie", suspending his campaign (but not his viscous TV attack ads) and vowing not to return to the trail until the economic mess is fixed - that worked, didn't it?
So let me as you this, if he runs his campaign like this, what makes you think he would run the government any differently? |
| Jay, MA |
| 03:05 October 18 |
| If not for your own sake, then for the rest of the world. Please. Do it for us. |
| Karin, Sweden |
| 02:13 October 18 |
| obayma a idiot dont not tovote for idiot |
| stonick, TN |
| 01:33 October 18 |
| Because he's a nigger. |
| Markwon, AL |
| 01:19 October 18 |
| Josh, You should definitely vote with your heart. My heart tells me to vote for Obama. He is a good man with high morals and a very good plan for our country. He cares about people who need help the most and he cares about our Earth and environment for future generations. I could not think of a better man for the job. I can't wait for him to win and take office. Boy do we need him! Good luck Josh, I love your site! |
| Jennifer Fitzgibbons, MO |
| 01:12 October 18 |
| Because everyone else in the rest of the world said so. |
| Sam |
| 00:54 October 18 |
| Don't you want to be proud of your leader again??? |
| Scooter, WA |
| 00:51 October 18 |
| If you don't then you're racist. |
| Magical Negro, WA |
| 22:56 October 17 |
Hi, Josh.
Obama is most certainly the man for you. Reasons: If you are making under $200,000 a year, you will receive a tax cut under Obama's plan (you can calculate your savings here: http://alchemytoday.com/obamat...). In terms of health care, under Obama, you will have the option of getting the same health care plan as members of the U.S. Senate enjoy--you also still get to pick your doctor. Health care will be payed for by increasing taxes on those who make over $250,000 a year, from 36% to 39.5%. The way that this able to pay for Obama's health care plan is because the wealthiest 1% of America has as much capitol as the bottom 50%, so the extra 3.5% in taxes will provide a lot of revenue while not, in any consequential way, affecting top earners. Not sure what issues are important to you, but Obama is pro-choice, pro-guns, pro-union, and his foreign policy plans are the ones currently being instated by U.S. government to ensure a successful withdrawal from Iraq and a more aggressive stance on Afghanistan. Obama's VP Joe Biden is also a great asset, as he has been a Senator for over 30 years and has extensive knowledge in issues such as preventing domestic violence and foreign affairs.
However, the most appealing thing about Obama is undoubtably his love of pies: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v...
Happy voting! .... |
| Elise, CA |
| 22:51 October 17 |
As future president Obama or McCain will have to make tough decisions and America expects these decisions to be made rationally.
One aspect of comparing the candidates (other than their promised policies and past experience in the government) is a their first "real" decision on the road to President. This was the decision to choose who should be the VP on their respective tickets.
OBAMA chose Joe Biden.
--> Biden has experience in Foreign Policy, and has a passport
---> Biden has spoken to foreign leaders
--> Biden has experience in the Senate
--> Biden has come from a small town and relates to "joe-six pack"
McCain chose Sarah Palin.
--> Palin has been on the PTA, and has been a popular governor in Alaska
--> Palin has virtually no experience in the federal government
--> In the short time Palin was gov. of Alaska she has been involved in "Troopergate" an ethics investigation where she was found guilty (to some extent)
There are many additional points for both VPs, but the point I am trying to make is that both McCain and Obama have made their first "real" decision as Future President. And McCain did not rationally make this decision. There are plenty of other Republican candidates that would be better qualified that Palin (maybe someone who has traveled outside of North America?).
If McCain had chosen another running mate - I may have voted for him - However, I don't understand what or how he came to his decision for VP.
As a result, I am afraid he will make other irrational decisions as President. .... |
| MayNay, TX |
| 22:23 October 17 |
Tax plans:
http://www.washingtonpost.com/...
Since when has America become so anti-tax? We have freedom here BECAUSE OF taxes. How do you think anything gets paid for. And, um, hello our government just wrote a $700 billion dollar check. McCain supporters complaining that Obama's tax plan is increasing taxes is totally false (and also unintelligent). Although, it maybe true for most McCain supporters, because your taxes will only increase if you make more than $250,000 under Obama's plan. |
| Nellie, FL |
| 22:07 October 17 |
Let's dissect:
To me, McCain WAS a generally respected man, yet in the course of his campaign he has been taken over by his advisors. The people running McCain's campaign have a scary history in the dirty politics of Bush and lobbying for big oil companies, and hey are also the same people that helped Bush defeat him in 2000. Never mind the policies and plans of Obama or McCain, but first looking at a person's morals and dignity under pressure can tell you a lot about them. Obama is continuing to run an honest, straightforward campaign aimed at the REAL issues facing America, like the economy, energy, and healthcare. Look at the subject of McCain's ads and rallies. They are constantly fueled by FALSE fear mongering. It is insanely scary to me that McCain's running mate claims Obama 'pals around with terrorists', while McCain sends calls to undecided voters claiming the same. Crazy people will actually take this to heart and become scared of him, voting for McCain not because they believe in his plans for the future, but because they don't wanna vote for 'the terrorist'. McCain should stand up to these false claims and show America the man he used to be, but he wants to win so bad, he resorts to scaring the undecided voters.
John Mccain does not speak for his own campaign?
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v...
10 things you should know:
http://pol.moveon.org/mccain10...
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v... .... |
| Amanda, FL |
| 22:04 October 17 |
| hey josh can i get your autograph please |
| obama, IN |
| 21:12 October 17 |
| one big reason, that i don't think has been said yet, would be foreign relations. how much more respect would we get when other countries see that, not only is our president black, but his name is Barack Hussein Obama. It will show that we are a diverse people, not just made up of old white guys with names like george and bill. |
| kira, AZ |
|
|
JOSH FOUND THIS UNHELPFUL Who cares about how foreign his name sounds ... Why do you think his stance on foreign policy is better than McCain's? -Josh Gross
|
| 21:02 October 17 |
Barack Obama is the only candidate who can get the job done on energy policy. Not only does he support the continuation of domestic drilling efforts, he also has a consistent record of voting for incentives to expand renewable energy generation sources, which can add thousands of new well-paid jobs to the United States workforce in these uncertain economic times. He also has a voting record that supports energy efficiency measures, green building standards and entrepreneurs who are working towards clean technology solutions. Joe the Plumber could even incorporate some of the water saving technologies that Barack Obama supports into his business plan.
John McCain, on the other hand, seems to be very confused when it comes to energy issues. He was very outspoken against domestic drilling in the Alaska National Wildlife Refuge and lifting the ban on offshore drilling until the political tides changed this past year. He also has a record of voting against renewable energy incentives over 21 times but shows wind turbines in his campaign advertisements, which I find extremely disingenuous. He also had no answer for his voting record on energy policy during the debates and his running mate avoided any question posed to her on climate change altogether during her debate.
Although our country will certainly need to "drill, baby, drill" for the foreseeable future, failing to incorporate renewable generation sources, energy efficiency measures and clean technology advances into a comprehensive energy policy will certainly put our country off the path to energy independence.
Why would you vote for someone who can't figure out how to get the job done on one of the most critical issues that our country is currently facing vs. someone who has a comprehensive plan for action, Josh? .... |
| Katharine, TX |
|
|
JOSH FOUND THIS HELPFUL
|
| 20:43 October 17 |
| he's different. |
| Stephanie, MD |
|
|
JOSH FOUND THIS UNHELPFUL
|
| 20:37 October 17 |
Because i feel it is important to not vote for a man that was endorsed by the worst president
P.S I have boobs and will show you them if you vote Obama |
| Boobs, IN |
| 20:26 October 17 |
Because as long as you earn under $250k a year, your taxes won't be raised. In fact, you'll get slightly lower taxes.
Also, because McCain seems to get angry easily. |
| Becky, PA |
| 20:15 October 17 |
| Why not? |
| A friend, MA |
|
|
JOSH FOUND THIS UNHELPFUL
|
| 20:14 October 17 |
| Because I will be very sad if McCain wins. Really sad. And you don't want to make me sad, do you? |
| Katya, FL |
|
|
JOSH FOUND THIS UNHELPFUL
|
| 20:07 October 17 |
| It's time for hope and change. we need to focus on healthcare,education and housing for all. |
| Renee, CA |
| 19:27 October 17 |
Gee, lets see, this is SUCH a tough decision:
1) Bin Laden determined to attack in U.S.....Bush determined to sit on his hands
2) Weapons of mass destruction, greeted as liberators, you know how all that turned out
3) Abu Ghraib
4) Katrina
5) Economic disaster, headed for the worst recession in decades
6) The loss of respect from almost all of our world allies
7) Neglect at Walter Reed Hospital
8) Outing a CIA agent
9) Warrantless wiretapping
10) Denying global warming
and on and on and on and on...too many more to mention...but yes, by all means, please send ANOTHER member of the Republican Party to the White House. You do realize that a party STANDS for certain philosophies and ideals right? Hmm...maybe this one doesn't govern quite as well as the other....just a hunch. .... |
| Josh, DE |
| 19:27 October 17 |
| Because we need a future. |
| Shaniqua, CA |
| 19:19 October 17 |
| Because my balls are on fire, motherfucker. |
| Padwon, CA |
| 19:18 October 17 |
Because we need a change. The last 8 years have destroyed the American image at home and abroad. If we want the rest of the world to not hate us, we need to elect someone who is educated, intelligent, and with a plan of hope for America.
McCain voting 95% with Bush and the Republican party doesn't seem like a maverick to me. Palin was chosen as VP based on her ability to stir up the attention in the Republican party, not because of any experience or leadership qualities.
Besides, if I have to hear the word "Maverick" one more time I will off myself. |
| AleeA12, CO |
| 19:15 October 17 |
| If you haven't decided yet - you probably shouldn't vote. |
| Anonymous |
|
|
JOSH FOUND THIS UNHELPFUL If you have decided, you should tell me what you based your decision on. -Josh Gross
|
| 19:14 October 17 |
| Have you read the posts you are receiving in the McCain column?! |
| Sad, CA |
|
|
Some good. Some bad. Some helpful. Some not.
I thought this comment from Noita Pitsnoc on Citadel, OH (18:52 October 17) made an important point: -Josh Gross
|
| 18:50 October 17 |
Barack Obama is not legally a U.S. Natural-born citizen according to the law on the books at the time of his birth, which falls between “December 24, 1952 to November 13, 1986? . Presidential office requires a natural-born citizen if the child was not born to two U.S. Citizen parents, which of course is what exempts John McCain though he was born in the Panama Canal. US Law very clearly stipulates: “…If only one parent was a U.S. Citizen at the time of your birth, that parent must have resided in the United States for at least ten years, at least five of which had to be after the age of 16.” Barack Obama’s father was not a U.S. Citizen and Obama’s mother was only 18 when Obama was born, which means though she had been a U.S. Citizen for 10 years, (or citizen perhaps because of Hawai’i being a territory) the mother fails the test for being so for at least 5 years **prior to** Barack Obama’s birth, but *after* age 16. It doesn’t matter *after* . In essence, she was not old enough to qualify her son for automatic U.S. Citizenship. At most, there were only 2 years elapsed since his mother turned 16 at the time of Barack Obama’s birth when she was 18 in Hawai’i. His mother would have needed to have been 16+5= 21 years old, at the time of Barack Obama’s birth for him to have been a natural-born citizen. As aformentioned, she was a young college student at the time and was not. Barack Obama was already 3 years old at that time his mother would have needed to have waited to have him as the only U.S. Cizen parent. Obama instead should have been naturalized, but even then, that would still disqualify him from holding the office.
*** Naturalized citizens are ineligible to hold the office of President. *** Though Barack Obama was sent back to Hawaii at age 10, all the other info does not matter because his mother is the one who needed to have been a U.S. Citzen for 10 years prior to his birth on August 4, 1961, with 5 of those years being after age 16. Further, Obama may have had to have remained in the country for some time to protect any citizenship he would have had, rather than living in Indonesia. Now you can see why Obama’s aides stopped his speech about how we technically have more than 50 states, because it would have led to this discovery. This is very clear cut and a blaring violation of U.S. Election law. I think the Gov. Of California would be very insterested in knowing this if Obama were elected President without being a natural-born U.S. Citizen, and it would set precedence. .... |
| Dan, NV |
| 18:43 October 17 |
| Dude, I could go on forever. I wrote a huge paragraph and then before I posted, I realized you really aren't finding this helpful anyway. You need to trust your own gut, seriously. I know I'm voting because I just don't trust McCain and I certainly don't trust Palin. I think Obama will have a strong political cabinet and I have more hope for our future when I add president to his name. |
| Erin, CA |
|
|
Please, go on forever. See if you can convince me...
"The need for change" or "he's not another Bush" don't help much. I'm interested in the issues, and why you think Obama's proposed solutions are better than McCain's.
Not only is this site extremely helpful for me, its made a number of people I know stop to think about their own decisions. -Josh Gross
|
| 18:42 October 17 |
| Because I briefly met Barack Obama five months ago at a rally, and got the chance to meet him again last Friday at Genoa Park in Columbus. He remembered my name. |
| Kara, OH |
| 18:26 October 17 |
| He has a more qualified running mate. He is not old. He wants to be president to help the country not just to be president. Besides McCain has tons and tons of money from his wife's family, so he could never understand the average person's problems and needs. And McCain has been entirely unhelpful in every economic crisis he has been involved in. |
| C., WA |
| 18:23 October 17 |
| de coolest |
| Tiney, MI |
| 18:22 October 17 |
Because McCain is essentially the next incarnation of Bush and if you aren't happy with the way things have been going, voting for McCain is not going to change it. Times change, and anticipating what's good for our nation is not synonymous with inexperience.
Plus, if McCain wins, he'll probably kick it and then Palin will be President and we'll all have to PAY FOR OUR OWN RAPE KITS while we watch her shoot our newborn pet wolves from a helicopter. |
| Mandie, TX |
| 18:22 October 17 |
Because McCain is essentially the next incarnation of Bush and if you aren't happy with the way things have been going, voting for McCain is not going to change it. Times change, and anticipating what's good for our nation is not synonymous with inexperience.
Plus, if McCain wins, he'll probably kick it and then Palin will be President and we'll all have to PAY FOR OUR OWN RAPE KITS while we watch her shoot our newborn pet wolves from a helicopter. |
| Anonymous |
| 18:14 October 17 |
| Because we need Palin to return to Alaska so we can IMPEACH her! |
| Iceman, AK |
| 18:07 October 17 |
| Because John McCain kicked my grandpa in the nuts! |
| Bob Saget, NV |
| 17:59 October 17 |
Where do I even begin?
Obama at least he gives us the HOPE for at least chance of PEACE, for upholding THE CONSTITUTION, and for restoring America's REPUTATION and MORAL STANDING in the world.
In a word: Optimism. |
| Zoe, CA |
| 17:51 October 17 |
| Neither. Ron Paul 08! |
| Ron, TX |
| 17:42 October 17 |
| I would just read all the arguments over there -----> and see how asinine they are and want to be the opposite of that stupidity. |
| Gina, AR |
| 17:40 October 17 |
| He's not an old stupid cooter who wouldn't even know HOW on earth to find this web site if his life depended on it. He's still in the dark ages. |
| Indiana Jones, IN |
| 17:28 October 17 |
| Because I'm the best man for the job. lulz DUH! |
| Barack Obama, IL |
| 17:27 October 17 |
| cause Sarah Palin is McCain's running mate. Watch the Katie Couric interview. She is a retarded deal breaker. |
| Obama08, CA |
| 17:16 October 17 |
He has a more progressive clean energy plan, and his proposals for transitioning America from a fossil-fuel dependent nation to a clean, independent nation seem most reasonable and easiest to achieve. He plans to do this by giving tax breaks to businesses who create clean energy, reducing tax breaks for oil companies seeking to keep the status quo, and increasing funding for the education that will keep this research domestic.
By reducing our oil importation and pioneering clean energy, we reduce our trade deficit and debt to middle eastern nations, create new jobs, and set an example in the world.
It's going to be very difficult, as our oil-dependent habits will be difficult to break, but we have to make a strong push now and invest in the future. A candidate like John McCain who is beholden to the oil industry will not be capable of taking the bold new steps that will lead us to energy independence, and I believe Barack Obama has proven that he can, and will. .... |
| Alex, MO |
| 17:00 October 17 |
| Obama's platform provides for the middle class and he holds common sense views on women's rights, worker's rights and health care. It's vitally important that we turn this country around, and Obama is the man to do it. |
| Susan, CA |
| 16:56 October 17 |
| why not? They both suck, take the slightly less sucky one. |
| fred, MI |
| 16:35 October 17 |
If you care about women, children, health care, not going further into a recession (and then depression), human rights, and being pulled out of the economic and political mire that we have been placed into thanks to George Bush, vote for Obama.
If you're cool with the way things are heading, I guess McCain would be your choice. An equivalent choice would be suicide. |
| Rachel, SC |
| 16:20 October 17 |
1. Because Sarah Palin could actually be President if (heaven-forbid) John McCain (who's had 4 bouts with cancer and refuses to release his medical records) dies in office.
2. Because the McCain campaign stopped being about ideas a long time ago. Now, it's about bringing out the worst in America -- what divides us. (The last time American citizens were accused en-masse of being anti-American was during the Red Scare.)
Finally, 3. Because Barack got where he is by saying out loud what he thinks and what he wants to do in the white house. McCain got there (as even his supporters admit) by pandering to the religious right (why isn't joe lieberman his running mate) and by pandering to faux-fiscal conservatives. The problem is that once you win, you can't just cut off the favor mill. The executive can't pass laws without Congress, and can't get anything done without support. That means that while Obama will have the support to do what he wants, McCain would not. He would have to forgo what he wants for what he promised -- a spending freeze that coincides with increased spending on autism, mortgages, the VA, drilling, a reduction in taxes, and a surge in Afghanistan. John McCain may not be George Bush, but he got where he is in this election by selling the difference between them. And as president, he will never have the capital to buy it back. .... |
| Matt, NY |
| 16:15 October 17 |
| I'm canadian, so i can't vote in your election......but you can! |
| Linny |
| 16:10 October 17 |
Ok actually don't do what Bob Loblaw said. He was wrong.
NOT COOL BOB! |
| ex Bob Loblaw fan |
| 16:08 October 17 |
| BECAUSE BOB LOBLAW SAID SO!!!!!!! O M G! |
| fan of Bob Loblaw |
| 15:59 October 17 |
I have more...hehe...
Because in this supposed 'free' country, where all religions, nationalities, and weirdos can live, you can't have someone in charge who isn't accepting of others.
You can totally be Christian and sign a law that allows gay rights, women the right to CHOOSE if they are ready to bring a person into this world and not just dump them into the Foster care system.
Muslims didn't bomb the country. People who don't like America bombed America. Stop stereotyping people in a country that allows you to serve the way you choose.
So-called Christians brought slaves here and then determined by law that they weren't human beings, but property. People raped, beat, killed, and bred full grown humans. Yet, a fetus has more rights than the health of the woman who carries it. .... |
| Bianca Dani., AL |
| 15:45 October 17 |
Let's keep in mind, on election day, it's the undecideds who are going to determine the outcome of the election. So let's be as persuasive as we can. Just because you are firm believers in your candidates doesn't mean others are.
So lets provide Josh our rational arguments for picking a candidate..
And while some of us may think undecideds are stupid, some of the piecemeal comments on both sides make me realize that we as Americans in general don't have a lot going on upstairs either.
Frankly, I'm a little afraid now. |
| scared shitless, CA |
|
|
Completely agree ... Thanks. -Josh Gross
|
| 15:44 October 17 |
If you care about the less fortunate then Obama is the guy.
In these economic times, when taxes have to be raised, imo, to fund what this country is always complaining about like healthcare, medical research, loans, frickin' FEMA trailers after hurricanes, He has a great plan. You cannot take the exact same percentage from everyone. Isn't the cost of living in New York for a rich guy the same as for a poor one? So taking 30% of 1 million bucks, then only 22% of the dude who makes 50,000 bucks sounds pretty fair. Rich dude, you still are rich!!! Poor dude will never get to send his kids to college if he didn't have a tax break. Rich dude, you can send me, poor dude and poor dude's kids to school on what you make in a month. .... |
| Bianca Dani., AL |
| 15:41 October 17 |
| Because I said so. |
| Joe the plumber, OH |
| 15:41 October 17 |
What Adam said:
Instead of asking people who you should vote for, maybe you should just get in your car, drive to K-Mart or Wal-Mart or anyplace in your state that sells handguns, buy one, buy some bullets, drive out to a field and blow your brains out.
Only someone with the intelligence of a doormat doesn't know who to vote for at this point. "Oh, please people, tell me who to vote for! I'm a frikkin' moron! I don't watch television save for UFC and I can't read! I have no social skills or abilities of my own! I am a blank slate to which other slightly less stupid people can write their opinions on."
Plese Josh, just do us a favor and don't vote at all. If you're too pathetically incompetant to know the differences between McCain and Obama at this point, your American system of politics has nothing to offer you. Quite frankly you'd only be spoiling the vote and making everyone else who made an informed decision look sad and foolish.
And for God's sake, shave that beard off.
Adam from Canada .... |
| Bob Loblaw |
|
|
See my comment to Adam's post below. -Josh Gross
|
| 15:25 October 17 |
| LOVE IT JUST FUCKIN LOVE IT |
| BUTTFUCK LMFAO, AK |
| 15:24 October 17 |
| Isn't it pretty clear that the reason for this web site is why this country is sinking into hole? Take a look dude, you have pro-McCain people writing in the Obama column and vice-versa. You going to trust any of these idiots if they can't follow a simple direction like choosing a column? |
| Elitist snob, NY |
| 15:13 October 17 |
| Canada is America's hat. |
| re: Adam |
| 15:11 October 17 |
Instead of asking people who you should vote for, maybe you should just get in your car, drive to K-Mart or Wal-Mart or anyplace in your state that sells handguns, buy one, buy some bullets, drive out to a field and blow your brains out.
Only someone with the intelligence of a doormat doesn't know who to vote for at this point. "Oh, please people, tell me who to vote for! I'm a frikkin' moron! I don't watch television save for UFC and I can't read! I have no social skills or abilities of my own! I am a blank slate to which other slightly less stupid people can write their opinions on."
Plese Josh, just do us a favor and don't vote at all. If you're too pathetically incompetant to know the differences between McCain and Obama at this point, your American system of politics has nothing to offer you. Quite frankly you'd only be spoiling the vote and making everyone else who made an informed decision look sad and foolish.
And for God's sake, shave that beard off. .... |
| Adam from Canada |
|
|
I don't think how early or late a person makes a voting decision is an indication of his or her intelligence.
I haven't made a decision yet because I think I still have a lot to learn about the candidates and the issues. This site gives people the opportunity to try and help me learn by sharing their opinions.
So far there have been a lot of helpful and insightful comments posted. Obviously, yours is not one of them.
Try clicking the "About" link on the top of the page to get a better idea of who I am and what this site is for. Then try posting a helpful comment.
Cheers. -Josh Gross
|
| 15:04 October 17 |
| He's for HOPE and CHANGE and other vague generalities! It will be awesome when people figure out what his tax plan actually does to marginal tax rates. And a near or possibly filibuster-proof senate, we are *so* close to our Utopian future! Also, he's the ONE. |
| Anonymous, OR |
| 15:04 October 17 |
| he is clearly the one who is going to bring about a helpful change in our country. |
| cynthia, CA |
| 15:02 October 17 |
Because he is a smart, compassionate, and calm man. The president doesn't (or shouldn't) actually write legislation. He sets the tone. You can really see Obama listening to people and thinking about what they say. He's criticized as "elitist", but he is elite, and I to feel like my leader is more well-equipped to lead than I am, so the GOP can put away that folksy stuff.
Conversely, McCain is stubborn and by all accounts has a horrible temper. And policy-wise, his potential Supreme Court appointments could severely imbalance the Court for years to come. |
| Creighton, CO |
| 14:55 October 17 |
| Vote for Obama because I . . er . . I mean John McCain doesn't really want to be president anymore . . . |
| John M., AZ |
| 14:53 October 17 |
| His greatest strength would be his humility. His greatest weakness is that it's possible he is too awesome |
| Rums, AZ |
| 14:52 October 17 |
| John Mcain Killed My Grandpa. Thats why!!! |
| Jon, NY |
| 14:48 October 17 |
| Sarah Palin |
| todd palin, AK |
| 14:46 October 17 |
| I think the most important issue is woman's rights, I mean I get your a guy and guys probably don't care about it but think of it like this what if your sister or your mother was raped and she found out she was pregnant, wouldn't it, shouldn't it be her right to decide to abort the pregnancy...this is a huge issue that is thrown into the background and it is one that clearly separates both sides I don't think personally that it is a decision that some old guys should have to make. And think about it right now how many people go to Mexico for cheap procedures what if abortions were outlawed, more and more women would subject themselves to more dangerous procedures in foreign countries. Nobody wants to carry around a physical constant reminder of their rape or rapist, and people will argue and say that all life matters and that you should just put your child up for adoption but how can someone just give away their own flesh and blood, also look at our Child Services System...it is almost impossible for people to get a speedy adoption, (it is easier for you to go to a sperm bank and make a new baby than to save an already born baby), and the children that aren't adopted are placed in various types of homes, and what if the kid grows up and finds you...do you want to be the one to explain, your daddy was some guy who raped me so I gave you up for adoption but I kept my other 5 kids. And I am not saying that abortion during the LATER TERM OF THE PREGNANCY IS ALRIGHT (because at about 2 or 3 months you know your pregnant and you have a choice to make then) I think the cut off should be 2 or 3 months well I hope I helped you can do some research on your own...an informed decision no matter the choice is the right decision!!! HAVE A GREAT DAY! .... |
| Tiffany Hall, TX |
| 14:44 October 17 |
1. His Economic policies will help the 80% of Americans who have been jilted by Trickle-down economic theories since Reagan
2. Woman should have the right to make informed medical desicions with their doctors without government restrictions
3. He insists on an end date for the war
4. The whole rest of the world will stop laughing at us
5. Palin doesn't have the knowledge or capabilities to be second-in-command and her nomination is an insult to every educated woman in this country
6. Piss off racists |
| Amanda, WA |
| 14:42 October 17 |
| we don't need another bush |
| rel, CA |
| 14:37 October 17 |
| All of the reasons below -- PLUS this: What if McCain died?! Ohmygod it's too horrible for words... discuss amongst yourselves... |
| Krystal J., OR |
| 14:31 October 17 |
| He wants to make a good-faith effort to reverse the trend of increasing economic inequality in this country while still preserving economic incentives for entrepreneurs and small businesses. McCain has indicated that he would most likely continue with Bush's policy of giving tax cuts to the wealthiest Americans, hoping that this somehow translates to gains for everyone down the line. In short, Obama wants supports reasonable, fair reforms for the good of all. McCain really really hopes, despite all evidence to the contrary, that trickle-down economics actually works. |
| Matt V, IA |
| 14:30 October 17 |
As for me, I'm voting for Obama because women's issues are very important to me (being one of them) and I am very strongly pro-choice and pro-sexual education (not abstinence education, which does NOT work). I am extremely impressed by Barack Obama's planning -- he says some wild idealistic things, like about health care, but he's genuinely thinking ahead. He published a science plan. A science plan! A plan for how he intends to foster participation in the sciences and education in our children and innovation throughout America. (Source: http://sefora.org/2008/09/26/o... )
He gives me hope. But if you're not so easily sold, then you should read, and you should decide. Check out this website for a rundown on the candidates' respective plans: ( http://www.alternet.org/electi... )
65 Nobel Laureates have endorsed Barack Obama. (Source: http://sefora.org/wp-content/u... (look out, this link is a PDF) )
Maybe they can see something that we can't. If my opinion isn't going to sway yours, that's cool, you don't know me, maybe I'm a loser. But the brightest minds in the world... Take THEIR opinion into account. Vote for Obama! .... |
| Kay, CO |
| 14:30 October 17 |
| Because McCain is scary. |
| sss, TX |
| 14:28 October 17 |
| Because by the look of your haircut and beard, you're not wealthy enough to vote Republican. |
| Ed Arias, NY |
|
|
Hahahahaha. -Josh Gross
|
| 14:27 October 17 |
| Aint no party like an Obama party cause an Obama party don't stop. |
| Steve Wilson, ME |
| 14:27 October 17 |
| It's time for a change and Obama is the only candidate that is going to give us the type of change we need! |
| Dave, CA |
| 14:26 October 17 |
Ask yourself the following questions:
In addition to seeing these candidates as the future president/leader, you should also be able to say yes easily to the following questions:
1. Would you hire Obama as your CEO? as your Sr. Strategist?
2. Would you hire Biden as your CEO? as your Sr. Strategist?
now answer the same questions:
3. Would you hire McCain as your CEO? as your Sr. Strategist?
4. Would you hire Pallen as your CEO? as your Sr. Strategist?
This is about leadership and respect - from home and abroad.
I have yet to hear Meg Whitman or Carly Fiorina say they would have hired McCain or Pallen when they were CEO of eBay and HP.
Hope this helps. |
| Anna L., CA |
| 14:25 October 17 |
Because you seem like the kind of guy that doesn't want to be drafted into the military. McCain agreed with a supporter who said that the Iraq war could not be continued without reinstating the draft.
That, and McCain is against net nutrality and Obama is for it. A vote for McCain is a vote for killing your internet revenue. |
| Dirk Bentley, CA |
| 14:25 October 17 |
| Do it for your Canadian friends. |
| Anonymous |
| 14:24 October 17 |
| You are a douche. |
| Greg, GA |
| 14:23 October 17 |
Because the other guy is old.
He could be like, your Grandpa.
He'd have a heart attack in the middle of being president and whatnot. Plus, black guys are cooler. |
| Allisonwonderland, WA |
| 14:19 October 17 |
| You should vote for Obama because he is young and cool and he is confident in what he believes. He believes that people should get free health care. he believes we should get out of Iraq. Plus he is going to save the economy because he is getting rid of governmental programs that aren't needed. Oh yeah and it's better than what is happening,in terms of what party is ruling the country right now . |
| Bob, MA |
| 14:18 October 17 |
I don't know what your criteria is for voting, but I can tell you mine.
I can't vote for someone who believes that we should teach Intelligent Design or Creationism in schools. Separation of Church and State. The opposition may say "Evolution is just a theory!" or "we should teach both!" Just a theory...evolution is a theory that is supported all over the world due to research and testing. Since a very very large portion of biology is dependent on evolution, teaching both would require loads of extra curriculum. It's just not plausible.
I also cannot vote for someone who is strictly pro-life even in cases of abortions from rape or incest. Palin is simply uneducated and just tries to act cute to cover up her mistakes, and I'm so sick of it. There is a difference between a slip-up and just plain ignorance and/or stupidity. The future cannot lie in the hands of McCain/Palin. .... |
| No Lipstick on Pitbull, CA |
| 14:17 October 17 |
There is absolutely no reason to be undecided at this point. Everything you need to know about the candidates (voting records, stated policy positions, nonpartisan analysis of positions) is readily available.
Get involved and do your own research. Then volunteer or donate to your chosen candidate.
Also remember that there are many other important races and issues that will be on your ballot. Get educated about those as well.
You have a voice in decisions that shape the future and mean life or death for thousands, if not millions, of people. Those before us have died to give us this voice. Honor them by taking your right and responsibility seriously. |
| Kristopher L Anderson, FL |
| 14:16 October 17 |
| cause bitch! |
| Thyena, FL |
| 14:13 October 17 |
He's young, and fresh, and has good new idea's to reverse all the damage of past years.
Also, with McCain, you're looking at potentially having the DUMBEST woman running the country. Watch any interviews with her and you'll see her answer to everything is about her kids or hockey or Russia.
Obama is change we can believe in. |
| Caroline A, TX |
| 14:12 October 17 |
| Because he will lower your taxes and not cause the spontaneous combustion of our planet as we know it. He is also smarter and has a better running mate. You know McCain is old and will probably die in office. That means that Sarah Palin could possibly be president one day. For the sake of humanity this cannot happen. |
| Gina, CT |
| 14:10 October 17 |
While there are several reasons I'd pick Obama over McCain, 2 are the most prominent to me right now (and quicker to write about!)
1. The rest of the world REALLY really wants Obama. Look at these poll numbers from the Guardian: http://www.guardian.co.uk/worl... The Bush Administration has completely destroyed our rep with the rest of the world and an Obama presidency is the first step in repairing our image on a global scale.
2. Despite McCain having a woman on his ticket, Obama is the most pro-woman candidate. I realize that you are a guy, but chances are that you have some important women in your life whether they be your wife, girlfriend, mother, sister or just a friend. Obama's health plan is highly beneficial to women, who have more health care costs over the course of their lives than men (pregnancy costs are a huge part of this) . Obama also supports the right to reproductive choice which some see as a flaw, but Obama's major strength in this fight is while he is pro-choice he is also pro-education so unplanned pregnancies don't happen and he wants to restore affordable birth control, which is hugely expensive (often more than $50 a month).
On the opposing side, Sarah Palin does not believe that women should have any say about their bodies and thinks that rape and incest survivors should have to carry their attacker's fetus to term. In the last presidential debate, McCain mocked the idea of terminating a pregnancy for the health of the mother.
Have fun making your choice! .... |
| Becca, MT |
|
|
JOSH FOUND THIS HELPFUL
|
| 14:10 October 17 |
| Obama has proved himself to be level-headed, whereas McCain has been extremely erratic in the weeks. Obama also has shown that he is going to lower taxes on ~80% of the American population. Even if he says 95%, 80% is still substantial. Also, if experience is a question, just think that people like Simon Bolivar and Teddy Roosevelt were able to enact extreme political changes with less experience than Obama has. |
| David, VA |
| 14:04 October 17 |
| Because John McCain, a 72 year old cancer survivor, picked Sarah Palin as VP. Sarah Palin has yet to hold a press conference, which Joe Plumber now beats her in that tally. |
| Trent, TX |
| 14:04 October 17 |
| Obama > McCain. |
| Kat, NJ |
| 14:02 October 17 |
123456 POKEMON!
Who ya gonna vote for?
BARAK OBAMA!
Who ya gonna vote for?
BARAK OBAMA!
Because Neil Cicireiga told me so while dancing on the tubes of you. that's clearly why.
Also, it's quite clear to me that if science and medicine are going to make further advances in this country voting for Obama would only be a boone to that advancement versus McCain whose conservative (i.e. religious) views impede him in making decisions upon important bills that help in stem cell research or keeping science in the science classrooms and theology out of them (they belong in religion classes, not biology).
Don't worry, Bill Murray. |
| Mary, MI |
| 14:02 October 17 |
| Because you probably make less than $250,000, and your taxes WILL be cut. On Obama's website, there's a tax calculator. You put in your income and some other stats, and it tells you how much Obama's tax plan will benefit you, and how much McCain's will. It's a BLATANT number reason to vote for Obama, something you simply cannot refute. |
| Jennifer, TX |
| 13:59 October 17 |
Because I don't want to be forced to carry babies that I don't want to term so that Old Man River and Daisy Adair can use it to show what a "complete" family they are.
Because gay people aren't second-class citizens.
Because global warming is man-made.
Because welfare parents aren't lazy.
Because the war is wasteful and the money can go elsewhere.
Because people who make less money deserve more tax breaks, not the other way around.
Because everyone deserves healthcare, even the unemployed.
Because education in this country is sorely lacking.
Because religion should not dictate the laws of an entire nation.
Because racists shouldn't be in charge of a multi-cultural society.
Because "terrorism" is an empty ploy to scare everyone into submission.
Because corporations don't need more breaks.
Because it can get better, but not if McCain is in charge. .... |
| Leelers, NY |
| 13:59 October 17 |
Obama thinks.
McCain reacts.
Obama is the future.
McCain is the past.
Obama is reason.
McCain is grudge, revenge and anger.
Obama grasps the big picture.
McCain is out of touch with the current world situation.
Obama expands borders.
McCain defends borders.
Obama respects women.
McCain clearly doesn't.
Obama reflects.
McCain repels. |
| Hilary M, CA |
| 13:58 October 17 |
| Over the course of this campaign, Senator Obama has been able to keep himself calm, cool and collected. Unlike his challenger, who has lost his cool one too many times, Sen. Obama has been fairly even-keel. Wouldn't you rather have someone in the White House who isn't going to make rash decisions and instead, weigh both sides of the issue(s) and determine what is best for the country? After all the this time, Mr. Obama is acting like a true adult, taking responsibility for and explaining his actions and not cracking under the pressure. That's pretty impressive, don't you think? |
| Liz, VA |
| 13:57 October 17 |
I think he will actually bring change to this country. Yes, Democrats may not preach about tax cuts like Republicans do, but it seems to me that all the tax cuts go to the wrong people.
Voting Barack in office will also give the outside world a reason to look at us differently. International opinion of the US is not nearly as positive as it once was. We need to be taken seriously again.
And who needs a hockey mom in office. I am a woman and I am not questioning her credentials because she's female. I question them because I think she was chosen by McCain for all the wrong reasons.
Good luck deciding! |
| Amy, IL |
| 13:57 October 17 |
| John McCain doesn't take the economic crisis seriously enough. He was recently quoted (within the last six months or so, but before the bailout talk started) as saying that we are no where near recession. He is completely out of touch with what is going on with this generation or the middle to lower class. Barack Obama grew up in an area that has been hit hard in the last 20 years economically. He knows what we need to ko. |
| Katie, OH |
| 13:57 October 17 |
The Republican economic strategy is to create huge debts that weaken the Government and allow privatization of many federally regulated industries. A vote for McCain is a continuation of that strategy, and the growth of companies like Blackwater, Haliburton, and others who are waiting to feed off the governments carcass. The oil companies have been enormously successful and have earned record profits, and thus far, none of that success has made it back into the economy.
Besides the economy, McCain is a fine candidate, but one from a different era. It's like electing your Grandad to be president. The man didn't even know how to use the Internet. With all due respect, do we have the luxury of waiting for him to catch up to the 21st century? If he even wants to?
Our culture is being left behind, in energy policies, in social reform and in scientific innovation. Obama doesn't have to pander to the religious nuts who debate scientific facts. We need to be the world leader in Stem Cell technology or we will be behind the curve there, too! Brazil is energy independent; Spain, Canada, England and others have Gay marriage. How much longer should we stay stuck in the past, cowtowing to the uneducated, frightened, extremist evangelicals? The "End Times" policies have got to stop, and Obama is a far better hope for getting past that kind of nonsense! .... |
| Michael Morris, CA |
| 13:57 October 17 |
| Obama and McCain are both qualified candidates who would do a good job--the difference is just your personal views about different political issues. Sarah Palin, however, is dangerous. Being the Mayor of a tiny town in Alaska for ten years and then being Governor of I believe the third smallest state by population in America does not qualify her to run a country. One of her initial selling points was that she fought government corruption in Alaska, but that could not be farther from the truth. A committee just found that she abused her power by firing an employee for very personal reasons. She has taken dangerous steps towards erasing the boundary between church and state. And come on, she actually thinks being close to Russia gives her foreign policy experience. Let's face it--it is very, very possible that John McCain will die in office. This great tragedy would be multiplied by the fact that this woman would then be in charge of the entire country. By choosing her in order to make news and attempt to win over female voters, John McCain put the country at risk. .... |
| Madeleine, NY |
| 13:56 October 17 |
| Because Republicans are the devil. |
| Rog, ME |
| 13:53 October 17 |
| just because Obama is more likable, is more trustworthy, more convincing that he will actually change the way Gov. is and help the middle and poor. Whereas McCain is just the opposite, looks deceiving, is not likable by any standards, heck, even the Republicans don't like him but he is all they got! |
| Jay, TX |
| 13:51 October 17 |
| Because thats it. |
| Trax, NJ |
| 13:46 October 17 |
I am technically classified in the Middle Class, and so are most all of the people in my community. I realize that McCain wants to help the Middle Class, and if I were selfish, I would vote for him because I want to help myself. However, even though I am in an economic struggle like I have never been before, I can afford food, a bed, and a roof over my head. So, I am not really the one that needs it. Obama wants to help the poor and a lot of poverty stricken citizens cannot even provide themselves with necessities like food, a bed, and a shelter. One thing I am upset about is that neither candidates support gay marriage, and I was really rooting for Obama to convince the American public to vote for gay marriage. They deserve to get married too! Thanks, this is a really cool website, and I hope I am included in the helpful comments!
PS: If it wasn't helpful, sorry. I can't even vote yet. I'm 13. .... |
| Alice, GA |
| 13:45 October 17 |
| Because he is 10 times cooler than McCain and his Vice president isn't a dumb hockey mom, trophy wife, political wannabe from Alaska. Definately vote Obama. Not just for these reasons. It is time for a change. McCain has all the same views as Bush. He supports the war in Iraq and wants to continue drilling for oil in foreign countries which will raise gas princes for the millionth time in the past five years. McCain is a self serving douchebag and doesn't need to be president. We can't afford to have him in office. If I were you, I'de vote for Obama. Of course the decision is all yours, these are just my opinions. Hope I helped! |
| Katie, VA |
| 13:43 October 17 |
Because as the great-granddaughter, granddaughter, daughter, and sister of current and former American soldiers, I can unequivocally say that John McCain's POW status and stories, while honorable and inspiring, do NOT a president make. He does not want to protect the Constitution as he stated he would when he became an officer of this country.
Because anyone who would align themselves with a woman--neigh, a human being-- like Sarah Palin,
Who charges women for their own rape kits
Who injects her radically Christian views into every part of her policy
Who would slander a man as a terrorist to bait voters
Who condemns sexism and then uses it to APPEAL TO VOTERS during stump speeches and debates
Who uses her own children to support her platform
Who does not believe in a woman's right to choose what happens to her body
Does not deserve your vote. .... |
| Jess, CA |
| 13:41 October 17 |
| BECAUSE I SAID SO |
| Morgan, CO |
| 13:39 October 17 |
| He's hot, his wife is cute, his kids are adorable, and I'll mow your lawn if you do. (take that how ever you want) |
| Beckto, CT |
| 13:34 October 17 |
| McCain is a mean old guy who called his wife the "C" word in front of the press. He can't win on the issues, so he just talks about Obama. Besides that, any time he gets tired (and that would never happen as president, right?) he starts getting confused, misnames locations, forgets who our allies are. He would would have been viable 8 years ago .... |
| JJ, WA |
| 13:32 October 17 |
| While I may not agree with everything that Obama will or will not do in office, I think you should vote for Obama only because he advocates for women's rights. If it was up to McCain, Roe v. Wade would be repealed and every state would have varying laws on abortion. This certainly wouldn't reduce the # of abortions or save children's lives, it would just cause a multitude of problems. |
| anonymous |
| 13:27 October 17 |
| A vote for McCain equals a vote for damning any kids or future generations. Choose someone who thinks ahead, not someone who thinks about when he has to take his pills and drink his Ensure. |
| Eric, OH |
| 13:25 October 17 |
| Because nobody should vote for McCain, he is NOT the future! |
| Andy Busk, MI |
| 13:24 October 17 |
He's level headed, and more interested in restoring your lost Constitutional rights than McCain is.
Also, Biden supports not charging rape victims for their own exams... unlike Mrs. Palin. |
| Chuck, PA |
| 13:23 October 17 |
| MCCAIN IS JUST MORE OF THE SAME! IF YOU ARE COMPETENT ENOUGHT TO SEE THE SEVERITY OUR ECONOMY IS IN YOU WOULD VOTE OBAMA!! HE IS FUCKING HOT. |
| OLY, FL |
| 13:22 October 17 |
Because he believes in the right to choose- there is a high possibility that if McCain were to be elected, during his term, the majority of Supreme Court Justices would be conservatives, a couple appointed by McCain himself, in an effort to overturn the supposedly ‘untouchable’ original decision.
Because a portion of the foreclosure problem is the uninsured can’t pay for their medical bills. Because there are thousands of employed people who have worked everyday of their lives and are unable to get health insurance, particularly for pre-existing conditions.
Because he understands that tradition fiscal decisions aren’t going to fix anything. |
| Samantha, KY |
| 13:18 October 17 |
| Unless if you're independently wealthy, Obama makes more sense for financial reasons. Lower taxes for almost everyone are an obvious benefit. Obama has a more reasonable approach towards our health care system than does McCain - not perfect but at least he doesn't assume that everyone can afford insurance to start with. Those who are self-employed or work for small businesses that don't provide insurance should know that McCain's proposed tax credit doesn't give you the means to buy insurance - it just offsets a portion of the cost that you've paid. |
| Melanie, NC |
| 13:15 October 17 |
| If you aren't racist or ignorant, or stupid in general, you should vote for him. |
| Gwen, CA |
|
|
JOSH FOUND THIS UNHELPFUL
|
| 13:15 October 17 |
According to The Daily Show, you're either chronically insecure, don't get enough attention, or just stupid.
Also, Obama is smart. |
| Jack, NC |
| 13:15 October 17 |
| Because quite simply its time to have a President smarter than most of us. Obama was head of the Harvard Law Review!!! How many of us can actually understand the articles in it, yet alone be able to dissect and edit them. For too long, we've wanted someone like us in office - we see where that got us - lets actually vote for the smart guy this time. |
| Patrick, NY |
| 13:14 October 17 |
Because everytime I do, ACORN gives me another 40 oz
of King Cobra!
(5) this week alone Cracker!
Vote Early and Often!!!! |
| NIg-nute-Toon the III, OH |
| 13:14 October 17 |
| Because he believes in equality for ALL. |
| Remy, CA |
| 13:13 October 17 |
| Obama is intelligent, calm and determined, with the best interest of the country at heart. |
| Sara, WI |
| 13:13 October 17 |
The question isn't "Why McCain?". It's "Why Palin?". And that's the problem.
Let's face it, McCain is old. The presidency is an extremely stressful job that ages presidents, and McCain doesn't have any extra years to give. He has already battled cancer and there is a possibility he will die during his term. That leaves us with Sarah Palin as president.
Here's why Palin is bad for this country.
Palin tried to remove books from her local library because she said she disagreed with them. She also said she hadn't, in fact, read them. This is the sort of igrnorant, closemindedness this country does NOT need. In a time where Americans are looked at as ignorant, war mongering and greedy, the last thing we need is a president who not only stands for all these things, but fights for them.
I don't care what your religious convictions are. I don't care what race you are, or what your stance is on gay marriage, or abortion. What I know is that people of ALL backgrounds love this country because here we are FREE. We enjoy freedoms people around the world can only dream of. And we are able to enjoy these freedoms because ALL people, no matter their background have the ability to say what they believe. We are not forced to follow the beliefs of one group of people.
Sarah Palin wants her beliefs to be accepted, and ultimately embraced. Why won't she do the same for others? She wants to restrict what children are able to learn (such as her belief in abstinence- only sex edu.) in order to "save them" and "protect them".
In a country where everything we have, and everything we fight for is FREEDOM, why would she want to take that away from Americans?
That doesn't sound very patriotic to me. .... |
| Deana, MA |
| 13:12 October 17 |
| I plan on voting for Obama because I can not get behind anyone who is pro-life. It is my body, and my life. How dare someone else try to make a decision for me that effects me in such a personal way. |
| Laura, NY |
| 13:11 October 17 |
| 'cause my mommy told me to vote for him. |
| bill, NV |
| 13:09 October 17 |
| I'm choosing to vote for Obama because I make under 250,000 a year and am looking forward to a tax break ;-) |
| CC, NY |
| 13:09 October 17 |
| Because this election is about real change. We need a leader who can not only clean up the mess of the past eight years, but someone who will put America's reputation back on top, someone who will bring our troops home safely, someone who will help the middle-class and fix our economy, someone who is a true leader, and Barack Obama is that leader. |
| Jeff, NY |
| 13:09 October 17 |
McCain and Palin like to present themselves as "just ordinary folks" - indeed, they pride themselves on it.
Since when do we want ordinary folks running the White House? Since when is that a GOOD thing? |
| Emma, CO |
| 13:08 October 17 |
| Would YOU feel comfortable having your Grandfather, who calls you 7 different names before getting to you your actual name, or just gives up and says "hey, boy" or "hey, son" run the country? think about oh and then when McCain kicks the bucket would you feel comfortable with Sarah Palin running (or as she would say "runnin' "), who makes Paris Hilton seem slightly literate? your choice, Josh. =] |
| Shannon, CA |
| 13:08 October 17 |
| Cause he has a BBD. |
| WOO, FL |
| 13:07 October 17 |
wow.
the venom that is being spewed by the likes of sam from KY and Crazeecarl in WA (pro mccain) is frightening. there are many folks on this page, on both sides of the ticket, with intelligent remarks and healthy debate. racist remarks do nothing for the mccain cause – they actually encourage more for votes obama. these idiots aren't republicans. and they certainly aren't democrats. i'd hardly classify them as americans. they are shameful disgraces and god help us i hope they stay home on nov 04. |
| jen, VA |
| 13:06 October 17 |
| you suck! |
| mj, OK |
| 13:03 October 17 |
John McCain voted for the war in Iraq, which was easily the biggest decision that our legislators made this decade. He didn't see/refused to see/accepted the fabrication that Iraq had no WMDs and helped lead us into a battle that caused the death of over 4000 American troops.
This decision cannot be rewarded. He is unfit to lead because of his bad judgement. |
| Matthew, IL |
| 13:00 October 17 |
| Two words: Sarah Palin. |
| John, AZ |
| 13:00 October 17 |
| Because in the one common presidential decision that both men have had to make--the choice for Vice President--Obama chose someone who was qualified to be President rather than someone who was qualified to energize the base. |
| Matt, NC |
| 12:59 October 17 |
At this point, Obama is the only possible candidate who can help save America's reputation. McCain may have attacked Obama for going to Germany and giving the speech in Berlin because this is an "American" election. But it is NOT an American election. It is a global election.
When America votes, the world watches. And the global consensus seems to be that Obama is the right choice to once again make America a super power.
Besides, if McCain dies in office (which isn't so far-fetched), do you really want to be lead by Sarah Palin???? |
| M, MA |
| 12:57 October 17 |
| McCain supporter Theresa can't even spell "moral" |
| Marj, NY |
| 12:54 October 17 |
| McCain\ Palin Supporters are racist |
| Em, VA |
| 12:53 October 17 |
Barack Obama has a clear view of the way the world perceives America, and wants to change the negative impact the Bush Administration has made on our country.
John McCain can't even conceive e-mail, let alone fixing the budget and our current economic crisis.
McCain has voted for and supported Bush's disastrous policies for too many years to say that he's "different."
The Republican party has run this country into the ground, and it is time for some fresh blood to make a few changes in Washington.
I do belive Barack Obama is the man for that job. His tax plan would actually lower taxes for 95% of Americans, and only those who make over $250,000 a year would see an increase.
John McCain believes we should lower the taxes for the top 5% richest people in America, rather than for the middle class.
This type of economic policy hasn't worked for the past 8 years, why does he think it will work for the future?
And the disastrous choice of Sarah Palin as VP should be the nail in McCain's coffin so-to-speak.
She is absolutely unqualified to run this country, and has proven countless times her inability to comprehend or answer questions directly related to being charge.
She also believes the world is only 6,000 years old and that we should basically turn our country into a Christian state, which goes against the constitution and defies the entire reason our country was founded.
The founding fathers were deists, not Christians, and did not want the church to control our country, rather have the people decide whatever religion was best for them, or none at all.
Under McCain/Palin, people would lose several civil rights, including the right to choice. This is a dangerous slippery slope we would enter, until what? A police state of big government telling us every little piece of our lives we can/can't do?
There are certain things the government should not be involved with.
These Republicans feel that the government shouldn't help the working class, should only bail out and cater to the richest people, while maintaining a big brother attitude on our every day lives and private practices, which to me is completely back asswards. .... |
| Sam, TX |
| 12:46 October 17 |
| For the first time in this country, Obama will make affordable heath care available to all. No one will be turned down based on a pre-existing condition. If you know anyone who has ever not had insurance, or was not able to get insurance because of a disease or inherited condition they could do nothing to prevent, you know how scary it can be to watch your friends and family not be able to get the medical attention they need. Obama's health care plan makes heath care a basic human right, as it should be. |
| Susan, OH |
| 12:46 October 17 |
As for the heathcare - McCain's plan is so flawed. His $5,000 credit won't cover anything. He has also failed to mention it will be TAXED. So that $5,000 you have? Yeah that will turn into a couple hundred dollars. He has also failed to mention he wont regulate the insurance companies. So they can jack up their deductibles and decline anyone if they have a mole.
My good friend was just diagnosed with cervical cancer. She has to get a hysterectomy next month. She's 42. Her work provides her with insurance but, the deductible is $5,000. This is all predicated on the hopes that they don't decide this is a "Pre Existing" condition. No one should have to choose between taking care of their heath or if they are going to pay rent. .... |
| Katie, CA |
| 12:46 October 17 |
| Obama is the face of the future and of change. McCain is simply more of of the same. |
| JJ, VA |
| 12:46 October 17 |
| sarah palin. nuf said. |
| swiss, CA |
| 12:39 October 17 |
Neither Candidate is a Hero; they're Politicians.
But do you really want to hear/see more of Palin? |
| Another Gross, CA |
| 12:34 October 17 |
| McCain and Palin want to overthrow Roe vs. Wade. Palin has even stated she would like to also make it illegal even in cases of INCEST and RAPE. Obama supports a woman's right to choose. And while I know you are a man, what about the women in your life? What if one of them were raped? What if they couldn't make that decision on their own? McCain/Palin will take that away from her. |
| Katie, CA |
| 12:33 October 17 |
| You'll save LOTS of money, get free healthcare, and live in a country that's not totally despised by the rest of the world anymore. |
| moneyries, NY |
| 12:31 October 17 |
| U BEST DAWG HE DA BESSSSSSSTT DAWG DEF GOOD CALL HE BOSS MAD CLUTCH DAWG |
| BRETT S., MA |
| 12:29 October 17 |
| McCain is a hot headed liar and his economic policy is horrible. and what about the first amendment? C'mon, have you not watched the debates?! |
| KG, TX |
| 12:29 October 17 |
| go fuck yourself |
| jonah, OH |
| 12:05 October 17 |
| Obama seems like pretty cool-headed guy compared to McCain. I think, given all the shit that's flying around, we really need a president who doesn't panic, who is decisive, but not rash. My impression of Obama, thus far, is that he's that type of guy. |
| David Perry, CA |
| 12:04 October 17 |
| One word: Bush. |
| Larry, VA |
| 11:47 October 17 |
If you think that a woman should have the right make decisions about her own body in consultation with a practicing physician, her significant other, and her own conscience and beliefs, then you should vote for Obama.
If you think the government should be involved in these decisions, then vote for McCain and pray that you never get a faulty condom. |
| Jessica, NV |
| 11:40 October 17 |
| I think he's a better leader. One of the complaints brought up about Obama is that he doesn't have the long history of Washington experience that so many presidential candidates exhibit. But he just ran - and won - one of the toughest primary campaigns in Democratic party's history, and came out still holding to his message of cleaning up politiics. One of the toughest things a president will do in his term is get elected. I think Obama has shown what he may lack in years of experience, he more than makes up for in natural leadership. We're choosing a leader, so I think he's a better choice. |
| Kenny Snowball, OH |
| 11:36 October 17 |
| Obama states his plans with clarity and with poise. McCain has yet to clearly and succinctly his plans for a very important issue - the economy. |
| dc, NY |
| 11:23 October 17 |
Here's one good reason. If you make less than a quarter of a million dollars, you'll almost certainly receive a tax cut with Obama. Even my republican husband was swayed somewhat by this calculator.
http://taxcut.barackobama.com/ |
| Rachel, OH |
| 11:14 October 17 |
| Because he can keep a cool head under pressure and not make irrational, quick decisions. He's also NOT a Republican. ( - : |
| ObamaMama, IL |
| 11:09 October 17 |
Even if McCain doesn't die and leave Sarah Palin president, his choice of her as his VP pick has already hurt his reputation globally.
http://www.cnn.com/2008/POLITI... |
| Dem, CA |
| 11:04 October 17 |
The Democrats didn't create the lie "Trickle Down Theory" which recently has proven to mean Steal from America and then be rewarded more.......
Vote Democrat, the least of the evils....... |
| Bob, CO |
| 10:59 October 17 |
| Simple, VP picks. Prior to the Vice Presidential picks, I was leaning more toward McCain. I have always respected McCain (I also come from a military family). However, his selection of Palin has as VP has just befuddled me. She is a wacko, is uneducated, uninformed and talks like the police chief in "Fargo." I simply could not see her as president, if something happened to McCain. It also makes me question his decision making process. There absolutely had to be better choices than this woman who is clearly way out of her league. For the record, I'm not a big fan of Biden either, but I believe that he could at least do the job without completely embarrassing our Country. |
| Jim, CA |
| 10:55 October 17 |
He is a better speaker and leader.
He is smarter.
He agrees with me that we should have focused on the war in Afghanistan, and not gone in to Iraq because the 9/11 terrorists were trained and planned in Afghanistan and Iraq had nothing to do with it. Obama represents the future and McCain the past. |
| Shmuel, FL |
| 10:52 October 17 |
Josh,
A lot of the people who are voting for McCain say on this site that they are angry that Obama (in a solidly democratic fashion) would tax the upper class and people who have "worked hard for their money" and that in reality, that doesn't solve any financial problems. HOWEVER, when Bill Clinton left office, there was a budget surplus and unemployment had been reduced to 4%. Since we've had a Republican in the White House for 8 years, the national unemployment average is up to 6.1% in 9/08 (Dept. of Labor Statistics) and the national debt has hit an all time high of $455 billion (http://www.latimes.com/news/po...).
You can see which party has a more sound economic plan, as well as the results. .... |
| Anonymous, CA |
| 10:51 October 17 |
| because he has blue lips, and you know what that menas, he has a blue D*ck...Ha Ha Ha |
| Mike, DC |
| 10:42 October 17 |
| Cuz he's smart and hopefully he can get the job done! |
| Paul, CA |
| 10:41 October 17 |
| In 3 debates, you have never head McCain mention the middle class. Based on his plan, you will end up paying more taxes, while he takes care of his friends in the upper eschlon. |
| Chet Miller, TX |
| 10:38 October 17 |
Our country is not the great land it used to be. Thanks to Bush/Cheney and their regime, we are seen as a joke in the international community. Not to mention the largest financial crisis since the great depression which came from their economic policies. Our dollar is worth less than many currencies, a startling fact that would have been inconceivable 8 years ago.
As much as we like to separate ourselves from the rest of the world, we cannot do this. China owns us and Russia is becoming increasingly aggressive. We rely on not only our government but the government of our allies to bring peace and prosperity to our citizens.
The current state of affairs came about due to a war-mongering president and his allies. We have no international allies anymore, at least not nearly like we used to. If something were to happen on American soil, I doubt we'd see a lot of nations rushing to our aide.
It frightens me to think McCain voted with Bush/Cheney on these issues. It frightens me to think he thinks we're doing a just duty in Iraq and are "winning" an unwinnable war. It also scares me that he and Palin seem to be in favor of using violent force more capriciously than Obama. I feel with them in power, we may be looking at a third war in Iran.
We need a diplomat. We need someone who can keep cool under pressure, not get hot-headed and angry. We've tried "shoot first, ask questions later" with Bush, now I think it's time to heal some of the wounds he's opened. Look at Obama and McCain in a debate...who would you rather have negotiating with foreign dignitaries? .... |
| DG, IL |
| 10:20 October 17 |
I absolutely love the racial slurs, insults, and terrorist comments about Obama. They do a fantastic job of exposing the blind, stubborn ignorance of many McCain supporters. And, as we know from the "Kill him" rally, McCain has said nothing to stop it. In fact, he encourages this type of groupthink.
So please- keep the comments coming. Josh needs to know the kind of ranks he'll be joining if he votes for McCain. |
| Lindsay H, IL |
| 09:40 October 17 |
| The republicans somehow have many people convinced that they don't want a member of the "elite" in the White House, and instead should want someone who's just "regular folks". Personally, I want the smartest personal possible (and certainly someone way smarter than myself) running things, the more phd's from top elitist schools the better. |
| kd, CA |
| 09:40 October 17 |
The team he has put together to help get us out of the financial crisis is made up of some of the best/most influential people in the financial industry.
His plan for affordable healthcare for everyone is huge.
He inspires people, which is something we have not seen in a president in a long time. |
| Ted, CA |
| 09:36 October 17 |
| If you look at the comments from the McCain side (and the candidates themselves) you'll see that they're just playing back their party's carefully scripted platform, rather than providing any real insight or solutions. |
| Kevin, CA |
| 09:18 October 17 |
| Pailin in office is scary. I wish we could see the cabinet nominees of both parties.... I'd like to vote for the entire package. My vote is more anti-Pail than pro-Obama. |
| Tony, IL |
| 09:06 October 17 |
| Because the republican nominee is a bug in a McCain suit. Remember MIB? |
| pilgrim, PA |
| 08:51 October 17 |
skzm in OK,
Please read what I just wrote to Sam in KY. It applies to you too.
Do you live under a rock?
And another thing, since when does having some class and eloquence = "uppity"? Are you scared of a President who's smarter than you? And uses bigger words than you?
I doubt you're "mid class" because you have NO CLASS. |
| Anonymous |
| 08:45 October 17 |
Sam in KY:
People like you scare me. The fact that there are more like you really scares me! In this day and age with so much information at your fingertips how, please tell me how, can you be so damn ignorant? I try to stand up for uneducated people like you but you make it so hard.
If you want to find out about Obama's relatives, read his book. You would find out his father isn't even alive for one thing.
You're too dumb to vote. Shouldn't be allowed to. Do America a favor and stay home on Nov. 4 |
| Anonymous |
| 08:38 October 17 |
| Fuck that upity 60% arab 20% white and 20% negro lying barney fife lookn asshole who is going to fuck us real mid class wokers. Fact. |
| skzm, OK |
| 08:34 October 17 |
He isn't Bush, Palin or McCain.
McCain keeps talking about how he "goes against his own party" and Obama hasn't. There is a reason for that; His party is always wrong. But what McCain has done is support Bush 90% of the time.
Bush, the guy who brought you the following: Enron, $140 oil, 9/11, 5 years and several billions in Iraq, largest decline in stock market history, no bid Iraq contracts, the lowest value of the dollar since the great depression, record foreclosure rates, Intelligent Design, proposed putting social security in the now failing stock market, No Bin Laden, No Child Left Behind, record health care costs, largest shift in wealth ownership since the great depression, terrorism at an all time high, declining status in world and alienation of former allies, North Korea and Iran have now gone Nuclear due to his "Axis of Evil" address, etc.
Oh, and if the 72 year old, 3 time cancer survivor dies in office, Palin, someone with no experience, modest education and intellect, will become President.
Bottom line: Is this country better off as a whole since the Republicans took control in 2000?
Oh, and McCain is an American hating Muslim terrorist. It's true, I heard it on TV. .... |
| Toad, IL |
| 08:22 October 17 |
Obama vs. McCain = A Wash
Biden vs. Palin = BIDEN!
It's a big ball of chaos as it is, what would I call it if Palin ran this country? Sure hope we never have to find out. |
| Amabo, DC |
| 08:19 October 17 |
| Because McCain's cancer prognosis is questionable and we can not have Sarah Palin running the country with her good buddies from Alaska. |
| Diane Fassino, MA |
| 07:39 October 17 |
| Fuck McCain thats why!!! |
| joe-joe, MA |
| 07:18 October 17 |
I'm not going to try an convince you. I think both Obama & McCain have run ads and spewed rhetoric that doesn't represent either.
I use to be a huge McCain fan until he started pandering to the Republican base too much. At one point he seemed more neutral than anything, but now instead of using his head he is using his advisors.
I will be voting for Obama simply because he isn't saying he's going to to change the country. He's trying to make the people realize this is our country and it is the people that make the change, not the politicians.
As for the experience debate, neither have been president, so until one is I think this question is just a question being used on both sides to cloud the issues. .... |
| Tim, WI |
| 06:30 October 17 |
| Just read all the misinformation, hate and fear in the other column. The conservative right have "governed" this way for far to long. Josh, we're not a nation of idiots, and I believe a majority of intelligent and informed Americans will support Obama because he represents the best of who we are as a nation. |
| I want better, NY |
| 04:35 October 17 |
| What this country needs now is a true american patriot. RON PAUL !!! |
| Anonymous |
| 04:25 October 17 |
| The only argument necessary: Palin and witchcraft |
| Snitzengrube, CT |
| 02:45 October 17 |
| Puuhhhleezz. |
| I'll be there, CA |
| 01:56 October 17 |
| McCain is like a million years old. |
| ed, CA |
| 01:27 October 17 |
| Those who are afraid of USA becoming like Canada or Cuba because of free health care ought to travel to at least 2 more countries before deciding who they will vote for. |
| Amanda, MN |
| 01:18 October 17 |
Every aspect of a traumatized person's life is affected by a natural re-enactment mechanism that leads people to do crazy stuff. It's a simple fact of the human condition.
Don't let McCain take become president of the US, please. |
| Alex, NY |
| 00:35 October 17 |
| Because McCain is a scary Robot. |
| Dan, MD |
| 00:11 October 17 |
| PRESIDENT PALIN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! |
| jimbo, IN |
| 23:56 October 16 |
| Higher taxes, more government intervention, socialism, poor judgment, untested leadership. |
| John M., OH |
| 23:34 October 16 |
| He's a dip shit. |
| Bambie, WA |
| 23:31 October 16 |
He's willing to think through ideological differences to reach practical compromises. McCain circa 2000 did this too. McCain circa 2008 has NOT done this b/c he needed to pander to a base to get a nomination and win their support in the general election. What happens when those people come "to collect"? Bye bye legalized abortion, hello wire hangers. Forget sensible tax reform. Forget reasonable, collaborative international policy. Not a huge fan of Obama, per se, but I am a huge fan of realistic, practical, populist governing.
Other things:
1) "Marxist economists" are theorists who talk about the rooting of social differences in revenue disparity. Marxism" actually has very very little to do with things that Americans want to hate -- like the USSR circa 1950-1990.
2) No one I'd want in the White House would claim, with a straight face, that Sarah Palin is the best person for the VP job and could effectively handle the Presidency if need be.
3) In times of duress, invoking "American-ness" and "American values" helps consolidate negative sentiment around the usual suspects: foreigners, fags, etc. It's a convenient, expedient argument that reveals little more than fear. Certainly not credible reasons to vote against a ticket. .... |
| Moderate Gay Guy, IL |
| 22:06 October 16 |
| he's not gramppy |
| holden, IL |
| 22:04 October 16 |
| he is the man |
| ed, MA |
| 21:55 October 16 |
You undecided voters scare the shit out of me. How can you not have an opinion about anything that's going on in the United States right now? Obama and McCain's policies are so different, if you haven't found something you care about what can I tell you really?
If anything, vote Obama to protect the health and wellbeing of women in this country. You have a mother, maybe sisters? Maybe a girlfriend? McCain is a misogynistic idiot and he wants to take away our rights to health, pay equality and well being.
There are so many reasons why Obama is a better choice for this country. I sincerely hope that you'll do some of your own research and think about what each candidate stands for so you can be an educated voter. .... |
| L., CA |
| 21:34 October 16 |
| better health care |
| ma, IL |
| 21:29 October 16 |
Three words:
McCain picked Palin. |
| Tom, NJ |
| 21:26 October 16 |
70% of our national debt was created by just 3 republicans
McCain is no maverick he's a sidekick for a loser managed by the same losers who marketed Bush as a conservative
Palin is a bigger boob than Bush 1 heartbeat of a 72 yr old cancer survivors heart away from being president
I'd rather set my hair on fire than vote republican |
| Heywood Jablowme, MN |
| 21:22 October 16 |
McCain: Legacy Admission to the Naval Academy. Ends up graduating 894 out of a class of 899.
Palin: 5 'safety schools' and six years to get her BA in journalism - failed as a sports reporter.
We just had 8 years under a C-student, can we really afford to trust the helm to two D-students?
Obama: Graduated MAGNA CUM LAUDE from Harvard Law. Editor or the Harvard Law Review.
With the state of McCain's health, the odds are heavily stacked against him living out the next four years. Palin put a small town $20M in debt to erect a pet project: A hockey center.
Her next big accomplishment was taking $300M in federal funds to build a 'bridge to nowhere'. Bridge canceled, but kept the money.
>Regarding her 'executive experience': Most of Alaska is wilderness and uninhabited. Most of the roads aren't even paved.
To show some comparisons: She manages a state that is flush with cash from oil royalties and has less than 700,000 people. There are more children enrolled in the New York City public schools and they are operating under an extremely constrained budget. I would say the Superintendent of Schools in NYC is far more equipped to be president than Palin.
It's not about 'experience' it's about competency.
McCain and Pailn are completely incompetent to run the government.
The Republican party has with increased frequency eschewed people with advanced education, vilified intelligence, and glorifies people with low intelligence, poor education and low potential.
The new Republican heroes: Joe Sixpack (alcoholic?), "Hockey moms", pregnant teenagers, retarded babies, and drop-out dads. .... |
| Jay, MA |
| 20:44 October 16 |
| I see a pro McCain post pointing to the UK National Health Care system as a reason to vote against Obama. I am a UK citizen that has been living in the US for the past 4 years. Frankly, the health care system in the US has been a major headache for me since day one. The cost for my asthma medication is approx 30 times higher in the US. Dental costs in the US are grossly out of control. They are capped in the UK at approx 175 GBP. In the US I have paid >$1000 for one procedure, literally having to choose a dental procedure over a holiday. When changing jobs in the US I have had different medial insurance on each occasion, meaning I had to tell each new doctor my entire medical history. In the UK I had one family doctor all my life. In my opinion neither candidate is tackling the terrible idea that health care should be for profit. Also why should we pay to provide free health care to seniors and government workers, but not for ourselves? There are other candidates on the ballot, maybe you should list them on your page too? .... |
| Jake, CA |
| 20:36 October 16 |
i really liked mccain 8 years ago, back when he was more interesting to listen to than al gore and a true conservative, but i think he's a grumpy shadow of the man he was. he's changed himself so much during this election, it feels like he's really just taking one last desperate stab at being president before he dies.
i don't trust the "maverick" choices he's made during this campaign. palin, voting against his own torture bill, etc.
i don't trust someone that can come across so angry during a basic debate--the future president's going to be dealing with many less easy-going people than obama.
i don't believe in tax cuts for the rich, period. it takes a lot of advantages to be able to make it to $250k a year in income, whether it's the ability to get student loans or the luxury of being able to spend 4+ years not working full time. and even then their tax increase wouldn't start until *after* $250k because of how taxes work. it also bothers me quite a bit that oil companies had such record profits, yet we're currently seeing an economic downturn. that's not very trickle-down.
i do believe in penalizing companies that send jobs overseas. that's true conservatism. we've actually been too hands-off with our companies--we're taxing them a lot, yes, but also helping them a lot and not making sure they're running correctly.
i believe everyone should have an option for healthcare--it's a basic dignity of living to have access to care and medical advice when we're sick. what we forget is that a large part of our healthcare costs go to cover the costs of the uninsured anyways. uninsured people are more likely to go to the emergency room, where they're more likely to undergo expensive medical procedures because they didn't have the option for prevention or early detection. providing healthcare for them would bring them dignity while also improving their health, which would in turn reduce the costs, and so on.
i get tired of people who constantly associate republican with the christian way. palin's constant jabs at obama's character, along with her convenient truth-twistings, should not be overlookable just because she's anti-abortion. religion has never been a sign of a good leader--she was found guilty of an ethic's violation, for christ's sake! mccain frustrates me because he is letting this go on in the name of his campaign, allowing people to "fear an obama presidency" and pandering to all those people that just want someone to hate for their issues. the christian way is to take care of people who need care, and to make sure that everyone is held to the same code of honor. the rich are supposed to give more--read your bible, people!
i also feel like obama is the shiny hopeful movement that could make the US a trustworthy superpower again. look at how many people turned out to see him in Berlin! just the amount of interest and respect he's already gotten from our friends and allies overseas.
the truth is, a lot of what both candidates are promising will never happen, but the obama movement shows that the US can and will organize for what they believe in. we can be motivated to care about things outside of money and fear! it's inspired a lot of (pre-election) turnout from groups that traditionally don't vote. if we want a more positive future, we have to think positive. i'd rather a bunch of optimistic supporters hopefully carrying this optimism on--and holding obama to what he's said he'll do--than a bunch of frightened and hateful supporters continuing to be frightened and hateful. .... |
| xtina, CA |
|
|
JOSH FOUND THIS HELPFUL
|
| 20:33 October 16 |
well, plenty of reasons (lower taxes for 95% of americans, better healthcare, priorities on energy for the future) but here's another one:
a vote for mccain is a vote for palin. and a vote for palin is a SCARY place for americans.
do you have a sister?
a mother?
a girlfriend?
a wife?
god forbid, if she gets raped, palin clearly thinks the right thing to do is give the rape victim no option but to have the rapists' child. ummm, wow. no thanks. that is absolutely horrific, just based on principle.
i don't think mccain is a bad man. but i do think he is out of touch, too elite (how many houses and cars do YOU own?) to understand the real struggles of middle class working americans, and his temperment scares the bejeesus out of me.
america needs to reclaim our stake in emerging technologies and innovation. news flash: mccain recently "discovered" the internet and that crazy thing called "google". and this man will lead the front on fuel cell/biodiesel/solar/wind/etc technology?
he has no control over his emotions, is prone to outburts of anger, and has agreed with bush 90% over the last 8 years.
you know the definition of insanity, right? doing the same thing that's always been done and expecting different results. now, i don't know you personally, josh, but you don't look crazy to me. .... |
| joojy, VA |
| 19:38 October 16 |
| anything, even a, maybe Marxist , democrat beats what the last 8 yrs have brought us. |
| stanbee, CA |
| 19:05 October 16 |
"Joe the plumber"? The McCain campaign has decided to use this guy as his mascot for why he is looking out for the good of the average American person? What they fail to mention is that Joe the plumber is trying to buy a business with a net revenue of over $275,000 a year . . . . .if this guy is in the position to buy a business with that much revenue in the middle of a depression - he is not a struggling American! McCain was born into wealth and doesn't understand what the true meaning of working to accomplish the American dream is. Obama came from the lower-middle class and truly understands those who are struggling to get to a position where they don't have to live pay check to paycheck. Joe the Plumber has accomplished that dream - good for him - now give other people a chance to realize that same dream!
PS - if McCain is president - Palin is only a heart-beat away from the presidency - if this happened we would REALLY be in trouble - listening to her speak is painfully similar to a female version of George W. - She is sooooo stupid it makes me ill! .... |
| amber, CA |
| 18:45 October 16 |
| I was unsure about who to vote for this time around. Up until 8 years ago I was a registered republican. In 2000 I wanted McCain as the republican candidate for president and when Bush was nominated I threw my vote away by voting for a third party candidate. As a result Bush won the election(?) and we were treated to 4 years of lousy leadership. In 2004 I thought there was no way America would vote him in again but I was wrong, Even though I voted for Kerry, Bush won again. It's not that I liked Kerry but, come on! Now, 4 years later the old man, McCain has finally made it to within the possibility of winning the election but he hasn't won my vote of confidence. He chose a woman as VP just to attract some ex-Hillary voters, has done marinally in the debates and hasn't convinced me that he president material. The man no longer has "it". Especially against Obama. Obama's got president written all over him. I wont list his many accomplishments. That's already been done. .... |
| Ethan, CA |
| 18:42 October 16 |
First, the mechanisms are complex, but what Republican economic polices have done, in the Reagan /Bush years and again in the Bush II years, is redistribute wealth upward. When CEOs get paid millions, pay practically no taxes due to loopholes, and get golden parachutes when their company fails, that's not the magic market in action, that's class warfare politics. Wages for people with college degrees have been stagnant since the 1970s; they've dropped for people who didn't finish high school. Literally, if you make less than seven figures, voting Republican is against your economic interests.
The stock market in the last two generations has done better under Democratic presidents.
<br />When Republicans talk about tax cuts, they DO NOT MEAN tax cuts for people making less than seven figures.
As far as national security goes, the Iraq War has made us one hell of a lot less safe, and life for ordinary Iraqis is worse than it was under Saddam Hussein . Plus, the war goes on. Read BBC on it, not the American press, which is shit out to lunch on this as on other issues.
McCain wants war with Iran, and confrontation with Russia. We simply cannot afford those things at the moment.
By the way, the Iraq War gave the Iranians a huge opening. The Iraqi government the BUsh administration installed is hand in glove with the Iranians.
McCain's new "green" line is only green in the sense that green grass grows on cow shit. He has voted again and again in the Senate against funds for research into and subsidies for alternative energy. He has also voted repeatedly for subsidies and tax breaks for oil companies, thus giving government funds to perpetuate the US economy's oil addictio .... |
| Matt Lenoe, NY |
| 18:34 October 16 |
| because even if I didn't know these two guys from adam, I would say that at least Obama has the decency to treat his running opponent with respect. You don't see him snickering while mcain is talking. Or talking down to him in any way. |
| eddie, CA |
| 18:28 October 16 |
There are a lot of people that feel they are owed your extra money. Just the money you are saving in the bank and for retirement.If you dont spend all your money then paying more in taxes is the patriotic thing to do .Spreading of wealth might only mean a few hundred more each month for some poor person standing in the parking lot of Home Depot.
thank you comrade. |
| Larry, CA |
|
|
JOSH FOUND THIS UNHELPFUL But I don't think the government has the right to take my money to give to these people who feel they're owed it ... That should be a personal choice, not a government order. -Josh Gross
|
| 18:24 October 16 |
| I'm not a redneck or a religious freak. |
| same, CA |
|
|
JOSH FOUND THIS UNHELPFUL
|
| 18:21 October 16 |
Obama is willing to give touchy nations like Iran, N. Korea, Venezuela and others the time of day when it comes to foreign policy and negotiations.
We as Americans are in this mess together. Us Americans are in this mess with the rest of the world. How will sticking your head in the sand a refusing to talk to terrorists progress into anything more than an unending war with more Americans and foreigners dead?
Obama will lower taxes for you and me, along with 95% of other Americans. It will be such a shame when millionaires are forced to give up another 3 percent.
We are almost at the point where we have little to lose and much to gain. Let's not forget that I'd rather have Biden than Palin as Pres. if either head were to be compromised. .... |
| Nick Harris, CA |
| 18:20 October 16 |
| I don't make more than $250K a year. |
| Annie, CA |
| 15:37 October 16 |
My parents are getting older and already can't afford operations they need because they don't have health insurance. I don't know how your parents are doing - I hope well - but you and me look like about the same age.
I learned from their mistakes and I know I'll be able to take care of myself - and with Obama's plan I'll still be able to buy whatever health insurance I want if I'm not satisfied with the socialized system. Plus, I'll have peace of mind knowing that my parents' bill won't fall on me. They would rather suffer than have that happen and I would rather pay than have them suffer - so I'm voting for choice for me, coverage for them. |
| anonymous, NM |
| 15:23 October 16 |
| why isn't your name joe, like every other midwestern, undecided voter? |
| schmogel, IL |
|
|
Haha.
What ever happened to Joe Six Pack?
I couldn't believe how arrogant McCain sounded last night in the debate every time he mentioned lowly, hard-working Joe Plumber. I don't think he and Joe Plumber have the same problems. -Josh Gross
|
| 14:00 October 16 |
Obama, because Sarah Palin is not his running mate. I don't trust someone to be second in command that believes in speaking in tongues, that dinosaurs and humans co-existed, that the end times will happen in there life time. Now, is it just me or does it scare you that the person expecting for the end times in her life time will be in a place of power to make sure it happens.
If your like me and have a hard time believing anything any politician says then I say VOTE Obama because at least he represents the idea and direction this country should go in. One of change, hope, inclusion and the belief that maybe we can fix this mess that Bush and everyone else in Washington DC created. I kind of believe that all of these politicians will give us the same result. Its all lip service. But I tend to be cynical. So at least vote for the idea of Obama. Tell the politicians this is what we want. Maybe 25 years from now it will actually make a difference.
As much as I would like to tell you to not vote if your gonna vote for McCain. I can't and shouldn't. I truly believe that Obama is exactly what this country needs and has needed for years. But i am not the only point of view in this country. Go vote! Just be informed. .... |
| FREE Levi Johnston, CA |
|
|
JOSH FOUND THIS HELPFUL
|
| 13:45 October 16 |
A stable Middle East will have ripple effects and create a more stable world. I truly believe Obama would bring a new approach to finally achieving a real and lasting peace between Israel and the Palestinians.
My Israeli cousin sent me this short film of retired Israeli generals discussing their hopes for an Obama presidency.
http://www.vimeo.com/1882159 |
| Roz, CA |
|
|
JOSH FOUND THIS HELPFUL Thanks for the link. -Josh Gross
|
| 13:40 October 16 |
It is clear that both candidates have some unreasonable ideas. But it is also clear that one man is looking out for you and me, while the other is looking out for Halliburton and Merrill Lynch. One party, it seems, wants to help other people and one wants to help themselves.
Best of Luck with your decision. Either way, VOTE! It's the most fun you can have without beer! |
| Jill, NV |
|
|
JOSH FOUND THIS HELPFUL
|
| 12:53 October 16 |
Josh,
Remember that Cuba and Canada are not the sole examples of free healthcare. Our country is lightyears behind the rest of the Western world when it comes to healthcare -- we are the ONLY wealthy, industrialized nation without universal healthcare. With our economic state, more Americans are without insurance than ever before.
With Obama's universal healthcare proposal, you would still have the option to stay with your private provider -- no penalties. But, if you are one of the millions of Americans without healthcare, you would now have the option to be protected.
Also remember that in the US we require that all citizens have access to healthcare, regardless of their ability to pay. What does this mean? A healthcare system that is under increased strain due to debt that isn't being dealt with.
Obama is offering and proactive solution to this strain, while McCain is simply avoiding solving a long-running problem. Sounds simliar to another GOP president's approach, doesn't it?
- Sarah .... |
| SarahN, MN |
|
|
JOSH FOUND THIS HELPFUL
|
| 12:39 October 16 |
| Because Obama is the Right Choice. |
| Josh, CA |
|
|
JOSH FOUND THIS UNHELPFUL
|
| 12:08 October 16 |
It's great that you've decided that you will vote (unless, after all this feedback you've solicited you still decide not to). Now that you've decided to vote, here are two frames of reference that make the case to vote for Obama:
- If you care about yourself / immediate family and friends most: Obama's healthcare plan will be funded initially by deficit-spending, but over the next 20-30 years will provide long-term costs savings. This gives immediate healthcare to your old family/friends, and cheaper healthcare to yourself in the future.
- If you care about the country as a whole: This is a globalized world. Countries cannot afford to remain aloof and overly righteous. Game theory, chaos theory, and social sense indicates that it's better to communicate with people than not to. Obama will communicate with other countries in a more constructive way than McCain. .... |
| Andrew, MA |
|
|
JOSH FOUND THIS HELPFUL
|
| 11:59 October 16 |
The gay agenda.
Why else? Not long ago, "colored" people had to drink from their own fountain, use their own rest rooms, sit in the back of the bus, ad nauseum, ad infinitum.
It's about time to open the closet door...permanently. |
| Brutus Maximus, CT |
| 11:47 October 16 |
| John McCain and Palin will do everything in their power to take away a womans right to choose. |
| I love babies, TX |
| 11:40 October 16 |
| So that you and I can travel the world with some respect. In addition, the chance of Palin becomming president should scare the heck out of anyone in their right mind. |
| Do the right thing., AL |
|
|
I'm sure the McCain campaign was hoping to get some votes by adding Palin to the ticket - seems like it was their answer to Obama's message of change. It's interesting to see how many people, Democrats and Republicans, are actually angry/horrified by their decision. -Josh Gross
|
| 11:23 October 16 |
| I thought liberal elites were somewhat open-minded...And you call JOSH dumb. |
| Anonymous |
| 11:18 October 16 |
| Are you seriously undecided at this point? If you still can't tell the difference between these two then you're too dumb to vote. Please don't. Move. To the south, preferably. Trust me, you'll be welcome. |
| Liberal Elite, CA |
|
|
Very classy.
Unfortunately, you're furthering the liberal stereotypes any conservative has ever tried to instill in me. -Josh Gross
|
| 11:54 October 16 |
| He's calm, collected and presidential. Far more importantly, he's youthful and can relate to the needs of a growing, changing America, instead of relying on what's been established by his predecessors. |
| L, TX |
| 11:52 October 16 |
I respect both candidates, and either will be a step up from GWB. But I am voting for Barack Obama because I think those who make more than $250,000 a year can afford to pay more taxes. Because the war needs to end. Because a spending freeze makes NO sense when so many people in the country are so in need. Visit his website and download his Blueprint for Change. He has his policies outlined very clearly, and you can decide whether you agree.
Also, when John McCain dies in office (which he will--we've seen how much the Presidency ages a normal person, let alone a 72-year-old physically disabled man with a history of cancer), do you really trust Sarah Palin to lead this nation in one of its most vulnerable times? .... |
| Anonymous, MN |
|
|
JOSH FOUND THIS HELPFUL But what about the deficit? I understand that sometimes you have to spend money to get to a better place (I borrowed a lot of money in student loans, and now I've got the job I want) - but there has to be some sort of limit, right?
I'll be sure to check out the Blueprint for Change. Thanks for the tip. -Josh Gross
|
| 11:48 October 16 |
| Neither. Vote Third Party. Make a true statement that you don't like either choice. |
| 3rd Parties for Peeps, MI |
|
|
Anyone in particular you'd recommend? -Josh Gross
|
| 11:43 October 16 |
I am a small business owner. I own a tax business and do more than 1,000 tax returns every year. The idea that Obama is going raise most people's taxes more than McCain is absolutely absurd and false. It is my opinion that because I prepare taxes for a living I do have some insight here. You need to really pay attention when you look at this. Do not fall for the trap that raising taxes on the rich will hurt you. It is absolutely false.
Oh, and by the way, "Joe Plumber" - there is no way you are buying a business that is going to make $250,000 a year. You may be looking to buy a business that has SALES of $250,000. One small technicality - YOU DON"T PAY INCOME TAXES (WHICH IS WHAT MCCAIN AND OBAMA ARE ALWAYS ARGUING ABOUT) ON GROSS SALES!! There is no way this guy has enough money to buy a business that has a NET PROFIT of $250,000 which is what you pay INCOME taxes on - Profit. If you do own a business and you personally profit $250,000 each year forget about McCain and Obama and hire a good CPA. .... |
| Tony, MI |
|
|
JOSH FOUND THIS HELPFUL
|
| 11:12 October 16 |
because hes like robin hood. he wants to take from the rich and give to the poor. He will follow the example of the great economic force of Cuba. I just can't believe that some people dont understand that hurting the big guy always helps the little guy, russia has proved this time and time again.
I also like how he is such a master of manipulation. He has everyone so snowed that he is for gay marriage when as far back as 2006 he has said " i believe that (gay marriage) is a State decision, but i believe marriage is between a man and a women". got to love the spin.
I also like his protectionist/isolationist ideas of not letting companies leave the US. China proved that this works...oh wait it didnt until they switched to a more open and free market. well 2 out of 3 aint bad .... |
| Karl Marx, HI |
|
|
JOSH FOUND THIS UNHELPFUL
|
| 10:42 October 16 |
To Anon in MI:
Obama's mother isn't Hawaiian. She was born in Kansas and raised Barack (whose father is from Kenya) in Hawaii. |
| Anonymous |
| 10:25 October 16 |
Because our country is falling apart.
Because the Republican party is notorious for standing behind...NO ONE! Oh unless you have a lot of money!
Because our education system is failing us right now and McCain doesn't believe there is a need for elementary education or for Teachers to be certified. Let the military teach our kids (without degrees). How will that work with NoChildLeftBehind? The school doesn't get funding unless the students can take apart and put back together their guns quickly enough!!!
Why is it everyone says Obama is African American? His mother was Hawiian!!!
We should know by now that the republicans obviously need a break from this country.
Palin is an airheaded "soccer mom" as she lables herself. Who can't even speak and make sense...OH wait the majority of you voted for Bush and he makes NO f-ing sense either...Those of you voting Republican must think this an asset to our government! Get your heads out of your rears and pay attention to what is going on around you.
As I've heard...Obama promises this and that but there is no proof he can of will follow through. Guess what? THE SAME GOES FOR "McPlain" .... |
| Anonymous, MI |
| 09:27 October 16 |
| Because McCain would never understand the greatness of a website such as this....nor would he know how to find it. |
| Tyler, IN |
| 08:41 October 16 |
| You make more than 250K a year? Answer's fairly obvious. Plus we'll gain respect in the world community and you can get gay married. |
| Beckmania, TX |
| 08:30 October 16 |
| Once again it comes down to the lesser of two evils. Not that Obama is evil, but I don't agree with all of his policies, just most of them. McCain on the other hand wants to continue the legacy of he who shall not be named. He is a warmonger. That is obvious and evident. Not to mention he really doesn't know much about the economy, considering he has stated so himself. My favorite line from the Town Hall "debate" really puts McCain in perspective. "I know where Bin Ladin is. I know it and I'm gonna find him." Really?! That's a mighty big secret to be keeping for all these years. Do you really want possibly eight more years of this fear-instilling tyranny? |
| Nicolas H, CA |
| 07:39 October 16 |
Why can't we all just get along?
I notice that those of us on the left use the word "feel" a lot. Who cares if he has no experience or he associates with terrorists and racists? He looks good and sounds good! And doggone it it feels good to vote for a minority.
Read Rolling Stone or Frontline for un-biased facts!
Just because the other guy spent six years as a POW a long way from home doesn't mean that our guy didn't fight just as hard getting into good schools and travelling around the world afterword.
We on the left (coast) need to stick together! Literally! |
| F. Packer, CA |
|
|
Rolling Stone unbiased? Not too sure about that. And lets not trivialize McCain's military service - although I don't think his service makes him more qualified than Obama for the presidency. -Josh Gross
|
| 07:35 October 16 |
| i meant 'castrated'. christ on a cracker, i'm tired. but i'm still voting obama. |
| tallulah, NE |
| 07:27 October 16 |
| I am not voting for Obama. VETO 2008! |
| UnconcernedCitizen.com, DC |
| 05:48 October 16 |
Over the years, America has voted based on the party, without understanding the candidates true feelings on the real issues.
For me, personally, the real issues are the ending of the war in Iraq, the state of our economy, and moving toward a cleaner, safer environment in which our kids will live in the future.
My Father has always lived by the creed 'things in moderation'. I think our country can take heed in this philosophy.
For me, Obama best exemplifies this creed. |
| Nick, MI |
|
|
JOSH FOUND THIS HELPFUL
|
| 04:51 October 16 |
| Because Pailin could be the devil (unconfirmed). And Obama is presidential (pre-Bush), McCain looks like just like another Bush.... |
| Sweden |
| 01:40 October 16 |
| An Obama win offers a new generation of political leadership - a possible political/historical inflection point. If he overdoes the "I am my brother's keeper thing" his win will have done more to freshen up the Republican attitudes than if McCain served. |
| republican, CA |
| 00:59 October 16 |
The policies of the last 8 years have been disastrous. Our economy is in a shambles. Obama has surrounded himself with an amazing team of economic advisers. Some are Republicans and some are Democrats, but they are all phenomenal and he has an effective plan to get us out of this mess.
That's just one example. Mostly, I'm impressed with his intelligence and thoughtfulness. I feel like he is really trying to solve our country's issues. |
| Roz, CA |
| 00:34 October 16 |
| Come on, look at the man. |
| Collin, AL |
|
|
JOSH FOUND THIS UNHELPFUL
|
| 00:09 October 16 |
We need to get out of this war that’s costing us 10 billion a month. Obama will do that.
Economies thrive on the success of the middle class. With Obama in office, this will happen and all classes will enjoy the effects.
America has become a punchline. Obama’s intelligence, confidence and grace will help correct that.
We can’t afford 4 more years of McSame. |
| Ben, CA |
| 23:45 October 15 |
| Palin |
| Scott, CA |
| 23:33 October 15 |
| Most of all because I believe that he is a centered, thinking, well-educated person, and that he hasn't sold his soul to politics. And when I saw well-educated, I don't mean that he has a snobby college background. (Even W. has that.) I mean that he's willing to use his brain as well as his heart to weigh facts, circumstances and possible outcomes. He's capable of analysis. Which is sorely lacking in our political and daily culture. Why we think that shooting from the hip, "being a Maverick" is preferable, I'll never know. I digress. RIght now in the world, there's too much at stake to have someone in office who can't weigh a lot of complex material. A hothead would not be a good thing. Someone who sees the world in an old paradigm. Us v. them. Good v. evil. It's just not that simple. And getting hot and bothered and all button-pushy is not the way to see us all into the next decade. .... |
| charlotte, OR |
| 23:31 October 15 |
• affordable health care
• a sustainable energy policy
• ending an expensive military occupation (Iraq) |
| Kevin, CA |
| 22:59 October 15 |
Because Obama has an agenda. He doesn't waste his time claiming he does, he spends his time explaining his idea. He is a strong speaker, a strong figure, and while everything he plans may not be possible, he believes in the idea behind it. He makes me believe that every word he says, he believes it to be true. He has character, class, and cares about more than himself.
His plans come with a price (may increase taxes), but it is up to us as Americans to decide if they are worth it. One of the issues is education. I am for higher funding for schools and school reform. Obama believes in stronger education at early ages and to make college more affordable to those willing to work for it. I believe it will help solve many other problems such as crime, pollution, and job placement if people know more about our world and opportunities. .... |
| Jason B, CA |
|
|
JOSH FOUND THIS HELPFUL
|
| 22:22 October 15 |
| cause America needs him. |
| tito, CO |
| 21:30 October 15 |
I am independent, and I’m voting for Barack Obama because of his intelligence, judgment and smart solutions to the problems like healthcare and education. For example, I like that education is so important to him and that he wants to make it easier for students to pay for college so that more young Americans can have a chance at higher schooling.
The last eight years have been frustrating and enough is enough. It’s time for something new. And to me McCain isn’t something new. I think Obama genuinely wants to help American people and isn’t out to win the presidency just to win. McCain choosing unqualified Sarah Palin as VP makes me think he would do anything to win, and it scares the hell out of me that he can make such a reckless decision. What is this reckless maverick capable of if he becomes President?
I have never been so excited to vote. I am so happy that I get to choose someone who I will be thrilled to have as my President and that I don’t have to pick the lesser of two duds. I think when Barack Obama becomes President he will help restore America’s standing in the rest of the world. I will feel a little safer. And I will be proud to be American. .... |
| Lori N, MI |
|
|
JOSH FOUND THIS HELPFUL
|
| 21:05 October 15 |
| Because rewarding big business is what got us into this mess. We need a leader who understands that our nation is fueled by tax-payer dollars. That's how roads get fixed, schools and hospitals get built, and even how prisons are funded! Slashing spending is not the answer - more intelligent and guided spending is. I'd rather pay more in taxes and have healthcare and an education any day. |
| kait, CA |
| 19:54 October 15 |
Because thoughtful, measured, nuanced consideration and response to complex issues is appropriate. Posturing, fist shaking, war mongering and black and white responses to issues that are NOT simple is inappropriate and irresponsible.
Because a 'maverick' choice of a WILDLY unprepared vice presidential candidate is unbelievably foolhardy and dangerous, even when one is young and in good health. John McCain is neither.
Those are just two of the reasons. Send Josh my way and I'll buy him a beer and tell him about 300 more. |
| Jill Hartman, CA |
| 19:54 October 15 |
I echo Dionne in CA in urging you to watch Frontline from last night on the candidates. Also very worthwhile is Rollingstone's lengthy piece on McCain. I wasn't really frightened of him till reading that well researched piece.
Also, my husband, another fabulously good looking Josh G. is voting for Obama. |
| Anonymous |
|
|
I'll check out the Frontline ... Thanks. -Josh Gross
|
| 19:13 October 15 |
1) Obama presents himself as thoughtful, calm, cool and collected - not erratic, not bitter, not impatient, not judgemental. In all his speeches, have you ever heard him sound angry, condescending or just plain fed up?
2) Obama focuses on the majority - not minority. For example, his focus on helping the middle class versus the wealthiest 10% of the population.
3) Obama thinks differently because he looks at both sides of an argument. He's pro-choice AND wants to work to reduce the number of abortions in this country. Whatever your beliefs are, we can all agree that reducing the number of abortions is a good thing.
4) Obama's is a uniter, not a divider. If Democrats and Republicans don't start working together for the good of all people, nothing will get accomplished.
5) Obama is believable. What he says resonates with me and I like what I hear. I may not agree with everything he believes, but I believe he wants to change America for the better.
If you're still not convinced, watch the Frontline program covering both candidates on PBS. Look at what they've done during their lifetime and hear what people have to say about them. .... |
| Dionne, CA |
|
|
JOSH FOUND THIS HELPFUL
|
| 19:11 October 15 |
| he danced with Ellen. |
| Lori, CA |
| 19:10 October 15 |
You should write-in Batman for your vote because both of these candidates are awful. If we get enough people, this might just work.
My name is Alfred Pennyworth (The Butler) and I approve this message. |
| Alfred Pennyworth, MN |
| 19:09 October 15 |
| he danced with Ellen. |
| Lori, CA |
|
|
JOSH FOUND THIS UNHELPFUL
|
| 19:02 October 15 |
| Because he makes more sense. |
| Jack, CA |
| 18:53 October 15 |
| Because he's not traumatized |
| anon, NY |
| 18:53 October 15 |
| Because America is in desperate need of feeling inspired and that things will get better and the perception right now is that Obama can do that. Things are working as is, and McCain is to reminescent about how things have been. Plus Obama can also help change the perception of America to foreign countries even without experience in foreign relations... |
| b, CA |
| 18:38 October 15 |
| he is black |
| Anonymous |
| 18:30 October 15 |
If you are in any way responsible for allowing Sarah Palin to be one heartbeat away from the presidency....I will make my friends who are capable of kicking your ass kick your ass.
I'm still voting Nader. |
| Lionel, CA |
| 18:27 October 15 |
| McCain/Palin are anti-choice, anti-abortion, whatever semantics you want to use. Whether you're for or against, that is a decision that is no one's business but a woman's. It's not a bad haircut; it's a tremendous, life-altering occurrence. I certainly don't want to be around when incest/rape victims are told that they have to carry the horrendous experience inside them for 9 months. I'll go one step further. How about, instead of banning abortions, we just make it a state and federal law that ALL men have to be circumcised. If partners decide that they want a baby, it's a simple procedure to un-do. Why is that any crazier an idea? It's far easier than bearing and raising a child for 18 years. If they do ban abortion and I get pregnant, then I want my monthly unburden-check signed by Mrs. Palin herself. Remember, Josh, the difference between Palin and Pain is an "L". .... |
| tallulah, CA |
| 18:25 October 15 |
| You'd like to be able to retire one day. |
| Adam, WA |
| 18:25 October 15 |
| I'm not so afraid of McCain as I am of Palin. So I'm voting for Obama. |
| Nate, CA |
| 18:20 October 15 |
Vote for Obama. McCain lacks the character and temperament to be president. And Palin is simply a disgrace.
read this:
http://www.slate.com/id/220216... |
| Michelle, WA |
| 18:17 October 15 |
| A true visionary! |
| Sheila, CA |
|
|
JOSH FOUND THIS UNHELPFUL Prove it. -Josh Gross
|
| 18:10 October 15 |
| McCain has abandoned too many of his core principles, and the republican party no longer stands for what they used to. They used to be about small government and personal liberties and privacy. Now that the religious right has gotten them into power, mccain is forced to pander to them. Palin is the obvious example of this. She brings no economic expertise, international expertise or really even domestic expertise. She was chosen solely because she is religious and pro-life. Things that McCain could barely even stomach to say of himself eight years ago. In short, mccain would have been a better president than bush. But that ship sailed 8 years ago. He's now resorted to kissing the butts of those he once despised, and is willingly allowing his running mate to spew lies about her own achievements (bridge to nowhere) and about her opponents (claims of hanging out with terrorists, etc.) It's despicable what he's resorted to. And i would have voted for him had he been the option in either of the last two elections. But not this one. He has openly admitted to not knowing much about economics, and yet he still chose a running mate who managed to know even less than he does. His decision making is not well thought out, it's erratic, and a little scary. Stop campaigning, start campaigning, no debate, then debate, etc. He doesn't seem like the cool collected one in this race. Obama does. .... |
| Anonymous |
|
|
JOSH FOUND THIS HELPFUL
|
| 18:06 October 15 |
For me, I just don't think the Republican ticket has anything to offer. What can they point to that has gone well under them?
Also, I come from a town of 12,000 in rural Oregon. My mayor is great, but if she became governor of our state, I'd want her to have more than 22 months in that position before taking on the Veep job. I think if you asked anyone from a town of 10,000 or less, if their mayor could e ready for that job in 22 months, they'd say no way.
I'm a health care voter. I don't think I can afford to grow old in this country under the current system. I'm going to try to emigrate if we don't get a better system. I know too many folks who had "good insurance" that are now destitute. Actually two are dead, no longer broke. .... |
| Karen Cradler, OR |
|
|
JOSH FOUND THIS HELPFUL
|
| 18:06 October 15 |
McCain spends the majority of his time bashing Obama's actions, rather than taking proactive steps to further his own platform. I am voting for a president who runs a campaign based on hope and a belief in the true greatness of America rather than one who relies on the mis-education of America and who propagates fear for his opponent to distract from his own similarities to the current president . Luckily for us, many of his attacks of Obama fall flat and get documented.
http://politicalticker.blogs.c... |
| Eli, CA |
|
|
JOSH FOUND THIS HELPFUL I agree that Obama's campaign seems so much more hopeful and optimistic, and attacks from any side get annoying ... but shouldn't we be basing our decisions on more than campaign strategies? -Josh Gross
|
| 17:48 October 15 |
| Is there another reasonable candidate in the run? |
| D., CA |
|
|
JOSH FOUND THIS UNHELPFUL
|
| 17:44 October 15 |
| i am an ex-military, registered republican who works as an artist in san francisco and has worked with Rock The Vote for seven years. therefore i've seen both sides and am familiar with the issues. i'm voting for obama for a few reasons, but i feel they're extremely important. mccain will not end the war in iraq, but push it to other countries while further tarnishing our global reputation - he is not shy about admitting to this. obama understands the importance of diplomacy before use of force and will further veteran's rights whereas mccain has consistently voted against them. although obama is religious, i feel he will separate his faith from his role as president whereas i feel mccain will not. as a devout atheist, i prefer my elected leader to keep his/her religion to him/herself. lastly, i honestly fear the likely possibility of sarah palin running the country the more i hear her speak. while i prefer to keep my money out of social programs and i do not agree with obama's stance on israel (or america's, in general), i feel he is the freshest offering to american politics since JFK. and this country could use a global facelift. .... |
| jeremiah, CA |
|
|
JOSH FOUND THIS HELPFUL Thanks for the insight. -Josh Gross
|
| 17:37 October 15 |
| McCain's voice makes you sleepy whereas Obama has a riveting cadence. Think about who you want to listen to for the next 4 years. |
| Canadian, CA |
|
|
Um, I'm worried about a lot more than cadence... -Josh Gross
|
|
|
JOSH FOUND THIS UNHELPFUL
|
| 17:32 October 15 |
| Because it's time to have a president who thinks before he speaks, and is able to engage with the rest of the world, rather than someone who the rest of the world will just deride for another 4 years... |
| James, CA |
| 17:19 October 15 |
http://thinkprogress.org/
McCain's health care plan will cost me $7,000.
Also, highly likely he will overturn Roe v Wade. Palin made rape victims pay for their own rape kits in Alaska. Palin does not believe in abortion in cases of rape or incest. Believes war in Iraq was a task from God.... |
| Rachel, CA |
| 17:19 October 15 |
| Hi MOM!!! |
| steve, FL |
| 17:18 October 15 |
Obama represents a more realistic and honest viewpoint. McCain is a great man. And was a great candidate 8 years ago. But the fact of the matter is that McCain has pandered to the right wing. Just look at his choice in Palin. They have NOTHING in common. McCain and Obama, truthfully, have more in common than McCain and Palin.
McCain just has to lean right as he searches for those who won't vote for Obama. |
| David, AZ |
|
|
JOSH FOUND THIS HELPFUL Palin does feel more like a marketing gimmick rather than a running mate -Josh Gross
|
| 17:16 October 15 |
Tuesday, McCain is unveiling his new proposals, going back to the well of tax cuts for the rich. McCain will announce plans to “cut the capital gains tax on stock profits in half, from 15 percent now on stocks held a year or longer to 7.5 percent — a $10 billion proposal.” The Wonk Room’s James Kvaal noted the impact of cutting capital gains:
Households earning less than $50,000 a year collected a mere 2.5 percent of capital gains in 2005, according to the Tax Policy Center. Families earning more than $1 million a year collected 59 percent of capital gains. Moreover, most middle-class families with capital gains hold their investments in retirement accounts shielded against capital gains taxes. />
For a candidate already promising $175 billion tax cut for corporations, including $4 billion for oil companies, handing out a new tax cut for millionaires and calling it a “Pension And Family Security” plan is oddly appropriate. .... |
| Katie, CA |
|
|
JOSH FOUND THIS HELPFUL Interesting... -Josh Gross
|
| 17:03 October 15 |
| Do you REALLY want Palin as your president when McCain croaks? (and let's face it, he probably will; he's old as hell) |
| That's what I thought..., OH |
| 17:02 October 15 |
| I am a diabetic and work freelance because there aren't any fulltime jobs in my industry with the economy. To get insurance I would have to pay $1500 a month. I can't do that. So, I have to spend my days hoping that nothing bad happens to me and hope that Barak Obama gets elected. Also, since I make less than $250,000 I will pay less taxes under Obama than McCain by $2,000 a year. I am a lifelong republican and I have seen enough of their rule. |
| Matt C, NY |
|
|
JOSH FOUND THIS HELPFUL
|
| 17:01 October 15 |
| Palin. |
| Mrch2, CA |
| 16:51 October 15 |
| Palin. |
| Mrch2, CA |
|
|
JOSH FOUND THIS UNHELPFUL
|
| 16:44 October 15 |
| Fuck McCain |
| Julian, CA |
|
|
JOSH FOUND THIS UNHELPFUL
|
| 16:43 October 15 |
| Obama is (and always has been) in favor of regulating the economy. Deregulation (supported and pushed by people like McCain) is what got us into this financial mess in the first place. Obama will make sure we learn something from the crisis, and change the way the economy has been working, instead of covering it up and moving on. |
| Allison, CA |
|
|
JOSH FOUND THIS HELPFUL Aren't all of the people who took out loans for houses they couldn't afford a big part of the problem too? -Josh Gross
|
| 16:38 October 15 |
| He gets it. |
| mrch, ID |
|
|
More detail please. -Josh Gross
|
| 15:29 October 15 |
| America is ready for a black president! |
| Poseidon, ID |
|
|
JOSH FOUND THIS UNHELPFUL
|
| 11:09 October 15 |
| The rest of the world will respect us more. |
| Toby, AL |
|
|
JOSH FOUND THIS HELPFUL
|
|
|
 |
|
 |
| |
 |
|
 |
|
| 03:26 November 03 |
| he is the worst |
| naomie & josh, KY |
| 01:04 November 02 |
the NOI prophesied the final muhommed (a muslim) would come into the world from the union of a white female and black male based on their interpretation of the story of Mary Magdelin and Jesus Christ; being white and black respective. Obama fulfills this.
Obama hails from chicago whose zipcode is 60606 (do you see the three sixes ?)
Obama would be a "black" president in the "white" house (satan is described as black in attribute and who seeks to take over the white mansion known as heaven).
Obama's first name is JEWISH! which means blessed [baruch].
Obama is MUSLIM |
| Baylee-Ann, TX |
| 01:04 November 02 |
John McCain may not be the answer to America's problems. In fact I will state here plainly that I do not believe he is.
The man was shot down in Vietnam after 22 successful bombin missions. He was taken as a POW and eventually it was discovered that his father was an Admiral in the US service he was offered out as an exchange prisoner. McCain refused. He said that if he left then everyone else in the camp should be released too. This was denied. And McCain spent several more years as a POW. |
| Roger, MN |
| 11:56 November 01 |
Question: What is America 's first line of missile interceptor defense that protects the entire United States ?
Answer: 49th Missile Defense Battalion of Alaska National Guard.
Question: What is the ONLY National Guard unit on permanent active duty?
Answer: 49th Missile Defense Battalion of Alaska National Guard
Question: Who is the Commander in Chief of the 49th Missile Defense Battalion of Alaska National Guard?
Answer: Governor Sarah Palin, Alaska
Question: What U.S. governor is routinely briefed on highly classified military issues, homeland security, and counter terrorism?
Answer: Governor Sarah Palin, Alaska
Question: What U.S. governor has a higher classified security rating than either candidate of the Democrat Party?
Answer: Governor Sarah Palin, Alaska
According to the Washington Post, she first met with McCain in February, but nobody ever found out. This is a woman used to keeping secrets. She can be entrusted with our national security, because she already is. .... |
| Hailey, AK |
| 02:52 November 01 |
| how do u think George washington would think if he saw a guy that looked like one of his slaves in office of the president. |
| Anonymous |
| 02:47 November 01 |
| fuck if I vote for some ape ass nigger |
| Anonymous |
| 01:46 November 01 |
Anonymous-
"Actually, according to the report Al Qaeda cited their endorsement for McCain because they believe he would continue the policies of George Bush (maybe they saw the "We'll stay in Iraq for a hundred years" of McCain's) where they can continue to coax us into more wars and kill more of our soldiers"
Soooo exactly what Lori said. Thanks for supporting it. |
| Julian, MA |
| 01:22 November 01 |
Al Qaeda endorsing McCain is simply a political move based upon many factors. A. Obama wants to pull the troops out. Which is good for Al Qaeda. B. McCain wants to bring our troops home in victory which is bad for Al Qaeda.
Need a translator for this? |
| Lori, CA |
| 01:20 November 01 |
Emma -
Granted it was not an actual "war." But certainly thousands of people died in WW2 and Vietnam/Kora to prevent the spread of socialism and communism. Toss Cuba and the Bay of Pigs invasion there if you want to. |
| Dave, NY |
| 00:45 November 01 |
Thousands upon THOUSANDS of people died to prevent socialism and communism from spreading across the world. our own country tried a form of socialim and it did not work in our early years.
Please feel free to dishonor the memory of EVERYONE who died during WW2 and the Cold War to prevent the shadow of socialism from casting itself upon our country. |
| Dave, NY |
| 00:41 November 01 |
| Seriously, doesnt the fact the Communists, Socialists, Iran, and Cuba endorsing him make you fucking freak? |
| Holly Giles, KS |
| 00:29 November 01 |
Obama spent 20 years in Rev. Wrights church. He performed his marriage and baptized his children.
Rev. Wright is a racist, white-hating, hate monger who thinks the US Government created the AIDS virus to keep the black man down.
Obama claims that in 20 years he NEVER EVER had any inkling that Rev. Wright felt that way? Conveniently we have several videos of Rev. Wright at various times or another spouting his seperatist hate mongering.
I can't fathom spending 20 years in a church and not having any, ANY clue that this is the way the man felt. Obama spent 20 years in this church and only when he became a presidential candidate did he decide to distance himself from Rev. Wright. That scares me. Scares me GREATLY.
20 YEARS in this church and he had no clue that his pastor was a racist, hateful, white-hating, nutjob?
I cannot believe that. I REALLY cannot believe that. I cannot believe that a "minister" if thats what you call him can spout his rhetoric and BS for 20 years and Obama had no idea he was this way.
Sorry to repeat myself but it's utterly LAUGHABLE that Obama claims to have spent 20 years in Wrights church and had no clue, no idea, no inkling that Wright was a racist, hating, nutjob.
That seals the deal for me. Either Obama knew and he agreed or he knew and didn't oppose. Either way I'm sickened by the thought of him being my president. .... |
| Richard, TN |
| 00:21 November 01 |
The man has taken a position of non-position on several issues. He has chosen NOT to vote, or merely vote "Present" over 100 times. I can forgive and forget the votes that were abstained from while he was campaigning. I understand that Hillary, Biden, and McCain have also probably missed votes during the past year or so. Hell, they've probably missed more than a few in their terms in congress
However, these actions are not unfounded or without history. Controversial votes when Obama was a STATE senator for Illinois were avoided by voting "present" 107 times or claiming later that he erred by pressing the wrong button and didn't really mean to take that position.
Really? The claim of "I pressed the wrong button on that" is valid? Seriously... there's three options. Yay, Nay, or Not voting. How did he PRESS THE WRONG BUTTON? It's pretty straightforward to me.
I can abide by the fact that he was campaigning or had a family emergency, or was elsewise occupied. That's okay by me if there's a reasonable excuse. But 107 missed votes in the State Senate? That's not leadership to me. That's not taking a stand. And The 143 votes he's supposedly missed while in the US Senate? That speaks to me of indecisiveness. That tells me he's not willing to state his beliefs and his views for all to see. That tells me he's waiting to take the popular decision.
All I know is that our system does not work if our elected officials do not do the task they were elected to do. .... |
| Billy, NY |
| 23:46 October 31 |
It scares me, honestly, that Obama has a child youth group thats basically devoted to praising him, that there's a children's book out there about him that essentially makes him out to be the Messiah that the Right has been playfully calling him.
Just wait until the dollars start getting printed with his face on them.
Really CREEPY |
| Luanne, OH |
| 23:38 October 31 |
* In my previous post "over" should read "under." My mistake.
I think it's very suspect that Obama has decreed that taxes wouldn't rise for those making UNDER 250K... and then it was 200K.. and then Biden said 150K... And then it's back to 250K... So which is it if it always changes? VERY suspect to me. And unsettling. Simply put:: I do not trust the man |
| Julie, CT |
| 23:37 October 31 |
| I think it's very suspect that Obama has decreed that taxes wouldn't rise for those making over 250K... and then it was 200K.. and then Biden said 150K... And then it's back to 250K... So which is it if it always changes? VERY suspect to me. And unsettling. Simply put:: I do not trust the man |
| Julie, CT |
| 23:28 October 31 |
| I really think that the whole "Obama not voting thing" should be a BIG issue to people. That's not leadership, that's indecisiveness to me. I don't see how that's NOT an issue to some people. That bothers the hell out of me. I'd rather a politician vote in disagreement with me then not take a stand at all. |
| Gregory, UT |
| 14:21 October 31 |
"" it's because McCain voted with Bush 90% to enact those failures.
Liz, OH """
******* and how did Obama oppose Bush ? Answer is that he did not. out of 145 days in the senate, he voted 'present' ( or not voting ) 130+ times.
That's change all right, it's called 'indifference'.
Check his ( lack of a ) record...
http://obama.senate.gov/votes/... |
| Tom, NY |
| 07:05 October 31 |
"yes it bothers me that obama has all these connections to these people like castro and chavez and the iranian president. yes it bothers me that there are some, SOME publications that condemn his plans and thoughts and ideas.
but at least hes not bush. "
*********** This is why most people are voting for Obama..., not policy or record, strength or character.., but, because he's not Bush.
how apathetic... |
| Tim, NY |
| 07:01 October 31 |
During this election year let's be reminded of these words:
* You cannot help the poor, by destroying the rich.
* You cannot strengthen the weak, by weakening the strong.
* You cannot bring about prosperity, by discouraging thrift.
* You cannot lift the wage earner up, by pulling the wage payer down.
* You cannot further the brotherhood of man, by inciting class hatred.
* You cannot build character and courage, by taking away men's initiative and independence.
* You cannot help men permanently, by doing for them what they could and should, do for themselves .
Do you recognize the author?
It was Abraham Lincoln
Very, very wise words, written years ago and we still don't get it.....
Why do MOST People think the Government owes them a living? .... |
| James, NY |
| 02:03 October 30 |
dude its called "logic." the guy said "if I went to a job interview with walmart and said hey i hate retail" the wouldn't hire me.
u should HOPE that if a guy went to the fbi and said "yeah I've hung out with terrorists" that they wouldnt hire that guy either.
You should HOPE AND PRAY they don't hire that guy.
Siiiiighhh. Go ahead. Tell me how Obama is pure and sweet and im basing it on nothing. just do it |
| rick, MA |
| 00:42 October 30 |
I don't need a source. If I appplied for a job at Wal-Mart and told them I hated retail they wouldn't hire me.
If I applied for a job with the FBI and told them I served on a board or council or comitee with a known terrorist they wouldn't hire me. I should HOPE, PRAY that they wouldn't hire me.
Seriously. I would like to know. Every day, every week, every month there's a new allegation about Obama being involved with this guy or that guy, this organization or that organization. DOESNT THAT BOTHER YOU?
The fact that all these crazy nutjobs are coming out in favor of him doesn't bother you? Seriously tell me. It doesn't bother you that communists and socialists and the Iranian leader is in full fledged SUPPORT of him?
It doesn't bother you that he, in his own book, admits to hanging out with and associating with Marxist professors?
THATS what I want to know. That does bother you? AT ALL? .... |
| Hal, UT |
| 00:04 October 30 |
Blah. Blah. Blah.
No self-respecting agency would hire a man who had suspected ties to foreign leaders of questionable character. Whether or not those ties were real, embellished, or false. So quote whomever you want to quote but I'll quote YOUR article again which states:
"An FBI spokesman said the bureau would not comment on whether any individual would pass a background check, and the Secret Service did not return numerous calls on the matter."
So, in other words, the FBI and Secret Service did not comment on this. End of Story. |
| Hal, UT |
| 23:44 October 29 |
Nice bunch of BS Jim. From your "Source:"
"An FBI spokesman said the bureau would not comment on whether any individual would pass a background check, and the Secret Service did not return numerous calls on the matter."
"So we asked "outside experts."
Yeah, given all of Obama's endorsements, supposed connections and associations, his admitted association with Marixst professors, his very public statements about sitting down with Iran and, ya know, just talking it all out, etc, etc, etc.
I'm SUUUUURE That the FBI and the Secret Service would aboslutely accept him no questions asked. God forbid we even QUESTION that.
/>Please. .... |
| Hal, UT |
| 23:38 October 29 |
Take it from a bar owne, or even a bartender. they'll let you know how it is. Buybacks are good, making your customers happy and coming back are good, but if you give away the store, if you're more concerned with making everyone happy and giving them whatever they want then you'll be out of business lickity split.
Imagine, if you will, that you're the owner of a bar. And all the patrons of the bar like you and frequent your establishment and are generally good customers.
So one night, as a favor to your customers, you say "Hey everyone. DRINKS ARE ON ME! NOBODY PAYS!"
Well everyone will cheer you on, sing your praises, get loaded and say "boy that guy is a good one. Great guy right there!"
And so it seems to charge people up and it brings more people in and so one night you say "HEY EVERYONE! DRINKS ARE ON ME! NOBODY PAYS!"
More cheers, more adoration, more adulation. More people flock to the bar. It gets PACKED. You have more customers now then EVER before. So, as a thanks to them one night you say "HEY EVERYONE! DRINKS ARE ON ME! NOBODY PAYS!"
The cheers and support are overwhelming. You're an icon in the neighborhood. Everyone loves you. You're the big man about town.
But then you look at the books. And you say "Whoa. I've been giving away all these drinks. I'm not making any money and I have bills to pay. What am I going to do?"
So, one night you say "HEY! Everyone! DRINKS.... are going up 3 dollars each. Sorry, I need the money to stay open."
Business crashes. People leave. Because who wants to pay 8 dollars for a bottle of budweiser when they used to pay 5?
So now suppose you're the President and you say "HEY EVERYONE! LOWER TAXES!"
And everyone cheers because after all who doesn't want lower taxes. Everyone wants lower taxes. They cheer you, they love you, the adoration and adulation has never been greater. People flock to your country, they take advantage of your programs.
"Hey EVEYONE! FREE HEALTHCARE FOR ALL! NOBODY PAYS!"
They love you, they adore you. Why has no one done this before? You have more people getting involved in all these great opportunities that you're offering them.
But.... healthcare is all very well and good. But we need doctors for that. Doctors need education. Come to think of it, lawyers need education as well. And so do teachers. And businessmen too. So, one night you say
"HEY! EVERYONE! LETS ALL GO TO COLLEGE! CHEAP EDUCATION FOR EVERYONE!"
And oh how they flock, how they swoon. What sort of a man is this that has finally been able to give us all these things that we've wanted to have all these years?
And then you look at the budget. Oh my. There's a deficit here somewhere. But how? Oh... right. I started cheapening things and giving away the spending. I forgot that that money ultimately has to come from somewhere and I forgot that it's funded by the tax payers. They've been getting a break for so long and I've just sort of been throwing things at them... I forgot.. at some point I need to get paid. The government needs to get paid. Hell, the bills need to get paid or I'll go out of business!
So you say "HEY! EVERYONE........Ummmm....About that bottle of budweiser...." .... |
| Billy, NY |
| 23:15 October 29 |
wether or not obama knew william ayers or any of the other connections hes accused of having doesn't matter.
if he applied to the secret service or the fbi he'd be disqualified for having even the appearance of a relationship with a known terrorist, not to mention the fact that he has communist and terrorist leaders support him like fidel castro, hugo chaves, Louis Farrakhan, Ahmadinejad, The Socialist Party USA, and The Communist Party USA. I know a politician cant really choose who decides to step up and say "I like this guy," but you have to really look at these people and say "Why do they LIKE Obama?" If he's all about American values and making America great and fighting terrorists and fighting Iran, and NOT a socialist...
Then why are terrorists, socialists, and communists supporting him as whole-heartedly as they are? In his own book he says he palled around with Marxist professors in college so that's not really something that should be a shock to anyone.
Point being, by admitted to associating with Marxist professors, for drawing the attention of socialist, communist, and terrorist leaders, and for even the IMPLIED and/or appearance of association with these men Obama would be denied application to the Secret Service.
Hence he wouldn't even be allowed to be the President's body guard.
Look Josh. And look everyone. I can't MAKE you care about something if you don't care about it. It's unforutnate that in our society we seem to accept the politicians will have some skeletons tucked away in some closet. We've taken a position up that seems to be willing to forgive certain transgressions that we deem "not a big deal," or "not really pertinent."
It's been brought up that Obama has taken more money in 3 years from Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac than Chriss Dodd has in 27 years in office. I'm not pointing figures at Obama and saying "Look at him! Look what he did! He took money from these guys." I KNOW McCain has taken money from these folks as well as others. I'm asking the question "Why does Obama have the 2nd highest amount of money recieved by any politican from Fannie and Freddie when he's only been in office for 3 years? And Dodd, who's been in for almost 3 decades is the only one who has more? (And not MUCH more btw)."
I worry that Louis Farrakhan, Iranian president Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, The Socialist Party USA, The Communist Party USA, Hugo Chavez, Castro, etc...are supporting Obama. That worries me. I can't MAKE you bothered by it if it doesn't bother you.
I WORRY that he may have been friends with/associated with William Ayers. Whatever the extent of the relationship was it bothers me that man who wants to be president, that loves this country, would willingly associate with a known terrorist. It doesn't concern me that they may have kinda sorta knew each other, it concerns me that a patriotic American would sit next to him on some council or committee or another and not raise any objections. But again, I can't MAKE you care about that. If that doesn't bother you or you think it's nothing.. then I can't make you think it is.
Theres a report out now that says French President Sarkozy has called Obama's attitude towards Iran "arrogant" and "utterly immature." Is this true? Hasn't been confirmed yet but was reported on Haaretz.com, a Jewish Newspaper.
http://www.haaretz.com/hasen/s...
Others have put other things out there. The Wall Street journal calling Obama's tax plan flawed and unworkable, the Washington post condemming his spending plan, etc, etc, etc.
Believe in him if you want to believe in him. vote for him if you want to vote for him. These things concern me, concern me greatly. Because I see in him a man that likes to say all the right things to get people charged but won't deliver in the end. There's a lot of hype surrounding him but I think it's just that: hype. We're all fed up with Bush. It's obvious, not a shock to anyone. But this isn't the sort of change we need. MORE spending is not the answer. And as great as tax cuts for everyone SOUND its impractacle. WE, the citizens of the US PAY (through taxes) for everything. And if you LOWER taxes and INCREASE spending then you're going to have to INCREASE taxes at some point because the money has to come from somewhere. .... |
| Brandon, RI |
| 22:48 October 29 |
| Yeah you posted 6 "responses" to 10 problems and most of those dont solve or address the issue that was brought up |
| gray, MA |
| 22:47 October 29 |
| Wow Anonymous. You really only need to click on ANY of the links you provided to see that they're either damaging to your point or don't address the subject you claim they do whatsoever. |
| Mark, NH |
| 19:49 October 29 |
Obama's Missing records.....
1.
Occidental College records -- Not released
2.
Columbia College records -- Not released
3.
Columbia Thesis paper -- not available, locked down by faculty
4.
Harvard College records -- Not released, locked down by faculty
5.
Selective Service Registration -- Not released
6.
Medical records -- Not released
7.
Illinois State Senate schedule -- 'not available'
8.
Law practice client list -- Not released
9.
Certified Copy of original Birth certificate - - Not released
10.
Embossed, signed paper Certification of Live Birth -- Not released
11.
Harvard Law Review articles published -- None
12.
University of Chicago scholarly articles -- None
13.
Your Record of baptism-- Not released or 'not available'
14.
Your Illinois State Senate records--'not available'
You couldn't get a job at McDonalds and become district manager after 143 days of experience.
You couldn't become chief of surgery after 143 days of experience of being a surgeon.
You couldn't get a job as a teacher and be the superintendent after 143 days of experience.
You couldn't join the military and become a colonel after 143 days of experience.
You couldn't get a job as a reporter and become the nightly news anchor after 143 days of experience.
BUT....
'From the time Barack Obama was sworn in as a United State Senator, to the time he announced he was forming a Presidential exploratory committee, he logged 143 days of experience in the Senate. That's how many days the Senate was actually in session and working. After 143 days of work experience, Obama believed he was ready to be Commander In Chief, Leader of the Free World .... 143 days.
We all have to start somewhere. The senate is a good start, but after 143 days, that's all it is - a start.
AND, strangely, a large sector of the American public is okay with this and campaigning for him.
We wouldn't accept this in our own line of work, yet some are okay with this for the President of the United States of America? Come on folks, we are not voting for the next American Idol! .... |
| Anonymous |
| 13:24 October 29 |
**** Failed ? Hardly. You only twist. If you READ this, you will understand that it was Clinton who pushed
for the LOCAL COMMUNITY loans ( i.e. the Sub Prime loans ). The Dem's would only back the measure if it contained the sub-prime ( community ) legislation.
" Gramm, an outspoken conservative who opposes the rules, last year managed to kill a similar bill that would have overhauled the community lending laws. The White House insisted that banks be required to have a strong track record in local loan-making as a condition for being allowed to expand into other financial activities. "
***** Who brokered the agreement..?? ( look below..)
"It was sweaty, it was tense, but it had momentum," Sen. Charles Schumer (D-New York) said of the final bargaining session. He and Sen. Christopher Dodd (D-Connecticut) whose states are home to Wall Street and the banking industry (New York) and the insurance industry (Connecticut), helped broker the agreement. """ .... |
| Lou, NY |
| 07:28 October 29 |
You can choose to ignore what you wish. The housing crisis began because of CLINTON.
http://www.cnn.com/ALLPOLITICS...
He signed into law the legislation which gave regular banks ( savings banks ) the ability
to join investment banks in the stock market. The Democrats - ( Dodd, Reid, Franks, ) are the
one's who blocked attempts to regulate Fannie and Freddie ( which the video shows, along with
others...)
No where does it state that the Democratic Congress is responsible for the Housing crisis, however, the Democrats in general.., are. The Dem congress was brought in to effect change and has done nothing, except watch things get worse and fill their pockets.
http://library.findlaw.com/200...
( links borrowed from an earlier post..) .... |
| Lou, NY |
| 20:50 October 28 |
""Uh, Lou...The subprime crisis began when the housing bubble collapsed, not because the democrats had a slight majority in congress. If you're going to make an absurd allegation show us some evidence of specific legislation. ""
*****Here you go....
Republicans calling for reform, Democrats saying ' all is well '
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v... |
| Lou, NY |
| 20:46 October 28 |
Perhaps the U.S. should pull out of Chicago?
Body count:
In the last six months:
292 killed (murdered) in Chicago ;
221 killed in Iraq .
Chicago.... Who Runs it:
Senators: Barack Obama & Dick Durbin
Rep: Jesse Jackson Jr.,
Illinois Gov: Rod Blogojevich,
Illinois House leader Mike Madigan,
Illinois Atty. Gen. Lisa Madigan (daughter of Mike),
Chicago Mayor Richard M. Daley (son of Mayor Richard J. Daley)
.....our leadership in Illinois .....all Democrats. Thank you for the
combat zone in Chicago. Of course, they're all blaming each other!
Can't blame Republicans; there aren't any!
State pension fund $44 Billion in debt, worst in country.
Cook County (Chicago) sales tax 10.25% highest in country. (Look 'em
up
if you want).
Chicago school system rated one of the worst in the country.
This is the political culture that Obama comes from in Illinois .
And he's gonna 'fix' Washington politics for us? .... |
| Jim, NY |
| 18:28 October 28 |
Josh:
I'm sure that if we had a chance to sit down with Mr. Obama and have a beer with him we would come away with a very positive impression of him. He appears to have a sense of humor, he's a family man, can talk on any number of topics and he loves basketball. Not a bad combination.
Unfortunately, I happen to disagree with him on most of today's pertinent issues.
His recent comment to a voter about "redistributing the wealth" seems to imply that it was done improperly the first time and now he's going to do it correctly.
I simply believe it is not the job of government to take one's wealth and give it to another. They should certainly encourage me to do this voluntarily. However, persuading me at the point of a sword seems inappropriate.
Is it fair to say that "some Democratic leaders have been reluctant to celebrate the humanity of some of the most vulnerable members of our society?"
I think so. Their record is pretty clear. I guess being an old school kind of guy I still get hung up on that "...certain unalienable Rights, that among these are life, liberty..." thing.
Most observers would agree that Social Security and Medicare are in dire need of attention. The men and women in Congress - for the most part - are intelligent people. They, or their staff, understand actuarial tables. They know the facts. Unfunded is unfunded.
Therefore, I find it intellectually disingenuous that Democrat members of congress - Mr. Obama included - were so adamant against Mr. Bush' attempt to tackle SS at the start of his second term.
Was their animous political or philosophical?
Again, in my view, it was purely political. They had an opportunity to do the right thing and refused to tackle the tough issues. Having just witnessed this event it would be a stretch of logic to assume their behavior will soon change.
I simply don't believe the act of raising FICA taxes to pay for Social Security is the kind of "change" the electorate is longing for. We are a big country and we should embrace big ideas.
I do believe government has an important role to play in our day-to-day existence. I just happen to think it is a much smaller role than Mr. Obama does.
We are a country of creative men and women. A more burdensome, heavy hand of government - however well intented - has the potential to stiffle that wonderful creativity.
Thus, for me, my vote in this election is simple. Give me the ticket that will embrace all humanity, allow one to render to Ceasar what belongs to Ceasar and to unabashedly tackle the tough issues facing our country.
The McCain-Palin ticket comes much closer to these goals than does Obama-Biden.
Good luck!
Mike - Springboro .... |
| Mike - Springboro, OH |
| 15:16 October 28 |
Sources Say Sarkozy Finds Obama's Iran Policy ‘Arrogant,’ ‘Utterly Immature’
October 28, 2008 11:39 AM
The respected Israeli newspaper Ha'artez reports that according to a "senior Israeli government source, the reports reaching Israel indicate that Sarkozy views the Democratic candidate's stance on Iran as 'utterly immature' and comprised of 'formulations empty of all content.'" - ABC News
http://blogs.abcnews.com/polit... |
| Kathy, KS |
| 10:01 October 28 |
7 1/2 Years of George Bush
TO ALL MY FRIENDS....LIBERAL OR CONSERVATIVE...FYI only.
George Bush has been in office for 7 1/2 years.
The first six the economy was fine.
A little over one year ago:
1) Consumer confidence stood at a 2 1/2 year high;
2) Regular gasoline sold for $2.19 a gallon;
3) the unemployment rate was 4.5%.
4) the DOW JONES hit a record high--14,000 +
5) American's were buying new cars,taking cruises, vacations overseas, living large!...
But American's wanted 'CHANGE'! So, in 2006 they voted in a Democratic Congress and yes--we got 'CHANGE' all right. In the PAST YEAR:
1) Consumer confidence has plummeted ;
2) Gasoline has been as high as $4 a gallon
3) Unemployment is up to 5.5% (a 10% increase);
4) Americans have seen their home equity drop by$12 TRILLION
DOLLARS and prices still dropping;
5) 1% of American homes are in foreclosure.
6) as I write, THE DOW is probing another low~~
$2.5 TRILLION DOLLARS HAS EVAPORATED FROM THEIR STOCKS, BONDS & MUTUAL FUNDS INVESTMENT PORTFOLIOS!
YES, IN 2006 AMERICA VOTED FOR CHANGE...AND WE SURE GOT IT! ....
REMEMBER THE PRESIDENT HAS NO CONTROL OVER ANY OF THESE ISSUES, ONLY CONGRESS.
AND WHAT HAS CONGRESS DONE IN THE LAST TWO YEARS, ABSOLUTELY NOTHING.
Bush's approval rating is around 30%. Pretty low.
BUT, CONGRESSES APPROVAL RATING IS 12%.
NOW THE DEMOCRATIC CANDIDATE FOR PRESIDENT CLAIMS HE IS GOING TO REALLY GIVE US CHANGE ALONG WITH A DEMOCRATIC CONGRESS!!!!
JUST HOW MUCH MORE 'CHANGE' DO YOU THINK YOU CAN STAND? .... |
| Lou, NY |
| 22:41 October 27 |
Anonymous -
And Obama being a man who knows what it's like to struggle in his life and face all sorts of adversity isn't a charade? Occidental, Columbia, Harvard?
Oh, I forgot. His mother was a single parent. I guess that settles everything. If anything Palin has the same middle class roots as Obama does
But make no mistake and face the facts, Anonymous, they're ALL upper class. The second they're elected to office they became part of that world. Obama's not walking around in a Wal-Mart suit any more than McCain or Palin or Biden is. And I dare say that Palin could afford to buy her daughter a gold-plated pant suit if she wanted to BEFORE any donation money or RNC funds went her way. />
These campaigns cost MILLIONS of dollars and it's arrogant to think that it all goes to things that we see or even deem neccesary. Hell, a large portion of it (typically) doesn't even get spent.
And I find it funny that you're criticizing this 150K shopping spree and yet Obama's endorsement by world socialist and communist leaders, his ties to terrorist orgenizations, and the fact that he took more money in 3 years from Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac than any other politician (Except Dodd)... well.. that's fine I guess. I suppose we'll just EXCUSE that becauase that's nowhere NEAR as bad as an expensive handbag. .... |
| Dave, NY |
| 07:43 October 27 |
Anonymous-
"2) It was using donor money. Would you be happy if you donated, $25, $100 or even more to your candidate of choice only to see Sarah Palin's 8 year old daughter carrying a Louis Vuitton handbag?"
You think Obama paid for his arrogant personal emblem to be painted on his private jet out of his own pocket? Or do you think donor money went to that? By your justification donor money should only be used for things directly related to campaigning, i.e. advertisements. But that money is used in a variety of ways, including clothing, lodging, food, etc. All of it pertain to the functioning of the campaign as a whole. Don't think for a second that if the Obama campaign thought buying Michelle a few pretty dresses would help her public image or help his campaign that they wouldn't do it in a heartbeat. So yes. Who cares. It doesn't bother me what they use the money for so long as they use it as they see best. It's not tax money, it's money contributed VOLUNTARILY to support the candidate of their choice. Sure I'd rather see it go to media coverage or posters or flyers but in the long run I have to believe that these items are first priorities. Whatever else they use the donated funds for after that I don't care.
3) Pure hypocrisy. Many conservatives cry "who cares?" but when it came to John Edwards $400 haircut, it was open-season for many republicans. It amazes me how people could criticize a $400 haircut but declare a $150 thousand wardrobe as "no big deal
Okay, here's the deal with the Edwar'ds $400 haircut. No one (at least not me) were pointing out abuse of tax dollars or campaign contributions. We were making fun of his vanity. Any regular "Average Joe" would think it ridiculous to spend $400 on a haircut when a $20 one is really just as good. It's typical effeminate behavior. We found it funny. We weren't OUTRAGED by it. It amused us. .... |
| Dave, NY |
| 05:21 October 27 |
| I would like to respond to L. Hernandez's question on Sarah Palin and her ability to run this country: I was shocked when McCain announced a woman as a running mate. I mean, "What is wrong with the GOP?" But, then I read and read and read more about her. What everyone seems to not hear anything about any more is that Sarah Palin took on Big Oil and won for her state. This is BIG. No one takes on Big Oil. This is the Good Ole Boys' Club at a perfect level. The fact that she was able to get oil money for the residents of Alaska and cut taxes by using her natural resources wisely impresses me to no end. If something happened to McCain (which it won't - the man has genes that don't quit), Sarah Palin could easily do the job of being President of the United States. I feel she has a lot more experience than Obama and would do a better job of keeping things less corrupt. .... |
| MO MaMa, MO |
| 05:13 October 27 |
| Josh, I don't think either candidate is going to "fix" America. Only the America people can stand up and "fix" America. I too don't "Love" either candidate but I am voting McCain because I think he loves America more than Obama does. Obama has been involved in a lot of crooked Chicago politics and those ties don't sever overnight. Even Joe Biden has said that we are going to have a foreign affairs crisis if Obama is elected. I think McCain has more experience and will be more representative of all people in the choices he will help to make. Decide to vote McCain and move on to deciding who you are voting for to represent you in Congress; this is much more important than who you will vote for to be the next President. .... |
| MO MaMa, MO |
| 02:53 October 27 |
Couldnt agree more with you about Palin, Dave.
Nice input |
| O NO OREO, DC |
| 20:41 October 26 |
I don't know if Josh is still checking this page but if anyone would like to talk about this issue or any other issue regarding the election please feel free to e-mail me at Westguy1003@gmail.com
L. Hernandez-
Palin doesn’t bother me because the Vice President doesn’t really do much but travel around the world attending state functions and hobnobbing with world leaders whenever a country has a birthday or a head of state dies or something like that. Other than that they cast the deciding vote when the senate has a tie once every 40 years.
The Argument that McCain is going to DIE is such a lame one. As President he’ll have access to the greatest, fastest healthcare in the world if he should ever need it. And, if God forbid something did happen then what do you really think Palin is going to do? She’s not going to accidentally launch our nuclear arsenal at planned parenthood centers around the world, she’s not going to force 7-11 to start selling automatic weapons, and she’s not going to hunt caribou on the White House Lawn. She’ll do what the president does with the checks and balances in place in congress.
I like her because her husband is a Union worker so she has a vested interest in keeping American jobs on American soil. I like her because her son is fighting in Iraq and so bringing the troops home and keeping them safe is a priority for her on a personal level. I like her because she was the Governor of a state that has huge energy interests which is a challenge facing our country, and I like that she has been successful in that respect.
It doesn’t bother me that she’s a Christian or believes in the Bible. This country was founded on Judeo-Christian values. I can’t remember the last time a candidate said anything negative about God or the Bible.
I think she’s a smarter woman than people give her credit for and too much has been made about her education, her career in the beauty pagent, and her daughter being pregnant.
When you get down to it I trust that what she says is what she believes 100% more than I believe what Obama says. Palin strikes me as the type t o actually speak her mind whereas I think Obama says what he thinks people want to hear. .... |
| Dave, NY |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Thanks Dave, I'm still checking this page. And I still find your comments insightful.
I don't think the VP has any power. So I'm not worried. And personally, I'm not willing to speculate on anybody's death but L. Hernandez does raise a questions that's probably on a lot of people's minds. -Josh Gross -Josh Gross
|
| 20:37 October 26 |
L. Hernandez
Let me ask you something, Are you comfortable with having a nigger run this country if you vote democrat.
I would much much more like haveing a women (shes pretty hot too) run this country than have a nigger muslim. Think about that.
Also think about what Biden said. "I can gurantee that if Obama(Nigger) is elected the other countries of this world will attack and test Obama(Nigger) to see how/what he will do.
Vote Republican people, save yourselves. |
| O NO OREO, DC |
| 17:54 October 26 |
Hi I'm posting question again on the McCain side because maybe they're not reading the obama column:
Are you comfortable with Sarah Palin becoming the president of America if anything were to happen to McCain?
Your answer may affect my decision. |
| L. Hernandez, MD |
| 07:58 October 26 |
In a New York Times article on December 20, it was reported that Obama often voted just “present” in the Illinois Senate. They write:
“In 1999, Barack Obama was faced with a difficult vote in the Illinois legislature — to support a bill that would let some juveniles be tried as adults, a position that risked drawing fire from African-Americans, or to oppose it, possibly undermining his image as a tough-on-crime moderate. In the end, Mr. Obama chose neither to vote for nor against the bill. He voted “present,” effectively sidestepping the issue, an option he invoked nearly 130 times as a state senator.”
Interesting. So he skipped out on 130 votes as an Illinois state senator and nearly 40% of votes during his unfinished tenure as a United States Senator. What is he going to do when faced with a tough issue as President? He can’t simply vote present or not show up at all. He’s playing politics, so he can not be questioned on tough votes that may or may not have a negative impact. That’s not what I call leadership .... |
| ktracy, NY |
| 11:41 October 24 |
And who cares about Palin and her supposd 150K Wardrobe?
You think Biden and Obama are shopping at Wal-Mart? They're weathy politicians! And if the GOP paid for Palin to have some nice clothes, who cares? It's all window dressing for the campaign! Don't believe for a second that the Obama campaign hasn't done similar things or WOULDNT if they thought it would help.
Please... as political "Scandals" go, this is just ridiculous. |
| Jerry, NY |
| 11:33 October 24 |
Well it was nice owning my restaurant for 25 years. If Obama is elected and implements the plans he wants to implement I will have to close my doors.
A lot has been made of his tax increases and if they will affect small businesses or not.
They will.
What he doesn't tell you is that businesses "earning 250K" also includes the salaries of employees. So if you have 10 employees making 25K/year then your taxes increase.
I will have to close down, theres no doubt about it. I've already begun preparing for the worst. I hope America makes the right decision and doesn't vote in this socialist mongrel who will destroy the infrastructure of America.
If we do, however, vote him in I can only hope that he does everything he says he will and Middle Class America can finally see how dangerous and damaging to this country that everyone on this side of the web page seeems to understand. Hopefully we'll all survive long enough to REALLY bring about the change that we'll no doubt need.
Until January my business stays open, but for how long? .... |
| Justin, NY |
| 05:31 October 24 |
| Looks like all the rich people are supporting MCain. So where is Obama raising all that campaign money from??? |
| confused, DE |
| 03:12 October 24 |
I really cannot fathom how anyone in their right mind WOULD vote for Obama. He's a blatant socialist. He wants to spread the wealth around, which basically means (And I don't give a S. What he SAYS he meant) that he wants to take money from hard working people and give it to lazy unemployed people. He has 1000 connections to dubious folks, terrorists, etc... He has communists and socialists calling for his election and singing his praises... Really? What more do you need? Is America so stupid? Do you crazy lefty dems have such a hard on for electing the first black president that you don't care who he is or what he stands for?
I am so incredibly scared for this country if we elect this man.
He took more money from Fannie and Freddie than anyone else (cept Dodd), he has numerous ties to the middle east and admitted terrorist groups. His entire family is saying "He's a muslim, dunno why he's saying he's not," the Koran states that a muslim may deny their faith for the purposes of Jihad (killing whitey). He does not place his hand over his heart for the pledge of allegiance, he has stated in his own book that he'll stand with the Muslims, his economic policies have been dubunked by the wall street journal....He has communist and socialist leaders around the world PRAYING THAT HE'LL GET ELECTED.
Is America so STUPID as to NOT see this? Not see the writing on the wall? NOT see him for what he is? .... |
| Lisa, CA |
| 01:35 October 24 |
I simply can't vote for Obama knowing that he supports abortion up to the 9th month. This process known as "saline abortion" is really truly barbaric. Although I am pro-abortion, I cannot support anybody who believes this practice necessary in 2008..
Obama also voted 4 times against a policy which would protect babies who survived these attempted abortions. He pretends to care for the little man, those who don't have enough voice behind them, how about a crying infant left to die because they survived an abortion?
He obviously doesn't support human rights if he would allow a helpless breathing infant to die. |
| Michelle, MA |
| 17:19 October 23 |
| My husband and I own 2 businesses and work 15 hours a day just to getby. If Obama wins, he will put us out of business because my husbandand I are honest Americans and pay ALL our taxes. We cannot pay apenny more or afford to be fined for not being able to give ouremployees health care. We need patrons with secure pockets to makeour businesses thrive and NOT socialism (look it up- it means what itmeans). We live in NY and know a lot of small business people whofeel the same way. We are all killing ourselves just to get by. Weneed tax breaks NOT raising our taxes. If not, we will considerleaving it all and move out of our country. How would that help oureconomy? |
| Joanne, NY |
| 14:00 October 23 |
" 11:09 October 15
The rest of the world will respect us more.
Toby, AL
JOSH FOUND THIS HELPFUL "
I would like to know how you found this "helpful." World respect is NOT what this election is about, it's about what's best for OUR OWN country and who is more fit to run it. |
| Kelly, CA |
|
|
Our country, our country's security, trade and progress is also tied to our relationship with other nations. Earning their respect can't hurt, and they seem to have a clear preference. That's the only reason I found it helpful. -Josh Gross
|
| 12:26 October 23 |
| Sarah Palin's hot. |
| Dan, OH |
| 11:01 October 23 |
| Anyone can talk about "change" and make promises. But what matters is the ability to act and make things happen. I believe McCain has the experience and knowledge necessary to make informed decisions and help our country out. Obama talks a good talk, but that shouldn't mask his lack of experience. |
| Liz, KS |
| 10:58 October 23 |
| Cause Obama is inexperienced. He's only been a state senator for 18 months!!! McCain is old, so you know he's good. |
| Rachel, KS |
|
|
yes but unfortunately, experience can also mean applying the same old solutions to the same old problems. -Josh Gross
|
| 10:18 October 23 |
THANKS to Joe the Plumber, we now know for sure that Barack Obama wants to "spread the wealth around." But the Democratic candidate still hasn't come clean on just how much of a European-style socialist he is.
Look at the "tax cut" he says he'll give to 95 percent of Americans. In fact, this is simply a government check he'd hand out - including to millions who don't pay income taxes, since each year 38 percent of Americans already get a full refund.
In other words, his "rebate" is a welfare plan, plain and simple.
When called on this, Obama's answer is that those 38 percent still pay payroll taxes, so he's rebating part of those payments. But that actually puts him deeper into the socialist hole. Here's why.
Payroll taxes go to fund Social Security and Medicare - the main US social-insurance programs. The taxes are dedicated because these are insurance programs - you're paying so that you'll be covered when you hit retirement age.
continued... .... |
| Lance, NY |
| 10:17 October 23 |
continued....
But, down the line, these programs face a financial crisis even worse than the housing mess that we're in now. They need literally trillions more dollars (above what they're set to take in) to meet their current obligations. By federal law, absent those new funds, every retiree will automatically have his or her benefits cut.
If Obama means to rebate those payroll taxes from the Social Security/Medicare funds, he's accelerating the bankruptcy of those programs. If not, he's still transferring money from people who pay income taxes to those who don't.
There's more: Either way, Obama is effectively changing these cores of American retirement from social insurance programs to European-style social welfare programs: Instead of each of us paying into the fund, and later collecting on that basis, some people will be paying in less to collect the same benefit.
That's a flat-out repudiation of President Franklin Roosevelt's vision in founding Social Security, and of the promise that's always underlain Medicare. Neither was ever supposed to become a charity program - but Obama's pointing down just that road.
The Obama double bind is either bankrupt our nation's retirement programs or put the nation on the path to European-style socialism. Which is it?
continued.... .... |
| Lance, NY |
| 10:15 October 23 |
continued....
No wonder Obama is so popular is Europe: The Europeans finally found an American who thinks like they do. (And they won't mind in the least when we start suffering the sky-high unemployment and lack of economic growth that socialism has given them.)
Of course, Obama knows that the term "socialist" would kill his plan, so he calls it a "refund" instead. But there's no way it's not socialist; he's either:
* Giving a "refund" on taxes people never paid to start with,
* Moving us drastically closer to the day Social Security and Medicare go bankrupt, requiring a massive bailout by other sources of taxation,
* Or outright turning the core federal retirement funds into welfare programs.
So, which is it? Of course, the mainstream media won't force him to answer that question - they're shamelessly in the tank for him.
So it's up to voters to force Obama to answer - to explain how his tax plan is (somehow) neither socialism nor a deadly blow to Social Security and Medicare.
The deficit now runs hundreds of billions of dollars per year. Yet Obama proposes almost $1 trillion of new spending - and promises to also give "rebates" to the 38 percent of us who pay no income tax. Where is that money coming from?
He's put himself in a fiscal box.
J. Kenneth Blackwell is a senior fellow at the Family Research Council and a director at the Club for Growth. .... |
| Lance, NY |
|
|
JOSH FOUND THIS HELPFUL Thanks for pointing out this analyisis...Although I never thought of Europe as socialist. -Josh Gross
|
| 10:08 October 23 |
| Infact, I am embarassed by comments on both sides. Read thier plan's educate yourselves. Josh I commend you. This is allowing all of us to see why we vote for who we vote for and if there are any real reasons behind them. I think the people that are hurting the most in this country are the ones that are posting the ignorant comments and should maybe research a little themselves. Maybe the educated individual, that pays taxes, that runs a business, or has a career should have more of a say than a person that sits at home and collects on all of the programs our Country has in place to support thier ignorance and pure laziness. Don't get me wrong some people need assistance but others abuse it. TOO MUCH CORRUPTION! |
| anonymous |
| 06:23 October 23 |
| Destiny, dont right stupid stuff on the republican board, let alone your spelling. Be sure to post that crap on the democrats side. |
| Jake, IL |
| 00:39 October 23 |
| Cuz I hate sluts and so duz he and I luv babies cuz they gonna luv u forever not like no one else! freedom of choice aint nothin! i mean like jesus our lord did live! |
| Destiny, KY |
| 21:27 October 22 |
This site is a complete joke. Here are my thoughts- Whoever this Josh Character is, he should really learn how to do his own research and pick a candidate that stands for his beliefs and his opinions.
Is Josh going to let the masses sway his decision? If more people say Obama or Mcain isn't that based on their own personal ideology and hopefully, hopefully their own extensive amount of research on their own about the candidates and their parties?
Josh to me sounds like an incredibly irresponsible person who should come to his own conclusions, unless of course this site is just for economic or political gain, which more than likely it is. |
| Zach, CA |
| 18:24 October 22 |
| While not all Democrats are IDIOTS, but all IDIOTS are Democrats! BITE ME! |
| Anonymous |
| 17:35 October 22 |
I don't know if you have seen this web site yet to figure out who you most allign with. Try it and see. Maybe it will help you decide.
http://www.usatoday.com/news/p... |
| Tim, OH |
| 17:33 October 22 |
Obama worked with terrorist
Senator helped fund organization that rejects 'racist' Israel's existence
By Aaron Klein
© 2008 WorldNetDaily
http://www.worldnetdaily.com/i...
JERUSALEM – The board of a nonprofit organization on which Sen. Barack Obama served as a paid director alongside a confessed domestic terrorist granted funding to a controversial Arab group that mourns the establishment of Israel as a "catastrophe" and supports intense immigration reform, including providing drivers licenses and education to illegal aliens.
The co-founder of the Arab group in question, Columbia University professor Rashid Khalidi, also has held a fundraiser for Obama. Khalidi is a harsh critic of Israel, has made statements supportive of Palestinian terror and reportedly has worked on behalf of the Palestine Liberation Organization while it was involved in anti-Western terrorism and was labeled by the State Department as a terror group.
In 2001, the Woods Fund, a Chicago-based nonprofit that describes itself as a group helping the disadvantaged, provided a $40,000 grant to the Arab American Action Network, or AAAN, for which Khalidi's wife, Mona, serves as president. The Fund provided a second grant to the AAAN for $35,000 in 2002.
Obama was a director of the Woods Fund board from 1999 to Dec. 11, 2002, according to the Fund's website. According to tax filings, Obama received compensation of $6,000 per year for his service in 1999 and 2000.
Obama served on the Wood's Fund board alongside William C. Ayers, a member of the Weathermen terrorist group which sought to overthrow of the U.S. government and took responsibility for bombing the U.S. Capitol in 1971.
Ayers, who still serves on the Woods Fund board, contributed $200 to Obama's senatorial campaign fund and has served on panels with Obama at numerous public speaking engagements. Ayers admitted to involvement in the bombings of U.S. governmental buildings in the 1970s. He is a professor at the University of Illinois at Chicago.
The $40,000 grant from Obama's Woods Fund to the AAAN constituted about a fifth of the Arab group's reported grants for 2001, according to tax filings obtained by WND. The $35,000 Woods Fund grant in 2002 also constituted about one-fifth of AAAN's reported grants for that year.
The AAAN, headquartered in the heart of Chicago's Palestinian immigrant community, describes itself as working to "empower Chicago-area Arab immigrants and Arab Americans through the combined strategies of community organizing, advocacy, education and social services, leadership development, and forging productive relationships with other communities."
It reportedly has worked on projects with the Illinois Coalition for Immigrant and Refugee Rights, which supports open boarders and education for illegal aliens.
The AAAN in 2005 sent a letter to New Mexico Gov. Bill Richardson in which it called a billboard opposing a North Carolina-New Mexico joint initiative to deny driver's licenses to illegal aliens a "bigoted attack on Arabs and Muslims."
Speakers at AAAN dinners and events routinely have taken an anti-Israel line.
The group co-sponsored a Palestinian art exhibit, titled, "The Subject of Palestine," that featured works related to what some Palestinians call the "Nakba" or "catastrophe" of Israel's founding in 1948.
According to the widely discredited Nakba narrative, Jews in 1948 forcibly expelled hundreds of thousands - some Palestinians claim over one million - Arabs from their homes and then took over the territory.
Historically, about 600,000 Arabs fled Israel after surrounding Arab countries warned they would destroy the Jewish state in 1948. Some Arabs also were driven out by Jewish forces while they were trying to push back invading Arab armies. At the same time, over 800,000 Jews were expelled or left Arab countries under threat after Israel was founded.
The theme of AAAN's Nakba art exhibit, held at DePaul University in 2005, was "the compelling and continuing tragedy of Palestinian life ... under [Israeli] occupation ... home demolition ... statelessness ... bereavement ... martyrdom, and ... the heroic struggle for life, for safety, and for freedom."
Another AAAN initiative, titled, "Al Nakba 1948 as experienced by Chicago Palestinians," seeks documents related to the "catastrophe" of Israel's founding.
A post on the AAAN site asked users: "Do you have photos, letters or other memories you could share about Al-Nakba-1948?"
That posting was recently removed. The AAAN website currently states the entire site is under construction.
Pro-PLO advocate held Obama fundraiser, describes Obama as 'sympathetic'
AAAN co-founder Rashid Khalidi was reportedly a director of the official PLO press agency WAFA in Beirut from 1976 to 1982, while the PLO committed scores of anti-Western attacks and was labeled by the U.S. as a terror group. Khalidi's wife, AAAN President Mona Khalidi, was reportedly WAFA's English translator during that period.
Rashid Khalidi at times has denied working directly for the PLO but Palestinian diplomatic sources in Ramallah told WND he indeed worked on behalf of WAFA. Khalidi also advised the Palestinian delegation to the Madrid Conference in 1991.
During documented speeches and public events, Khalidi has called Israel an "apartheid system in creation" and a destructive "racist" state.
He has multiple times expressed support for Palestinian terror, calling suicide bombings response to "Israeli aggression." He dedicated his 1986 book, "Under Siege," to "those who gave their lives ... in defense of the cause of Palestine and independence of Lebanon." Critics assailed the book as excusing Palestinian terrorism.
While the Woods Fund's contribution to Khalidi's AAAN might be perceived as a one-time run in with Obama, the presidential hopeful and Khalidi evidence a deeper relationship.
According to a professor at the University of Chicago who said he has known Obama for 12 years, the Democratic presidential hopeful first befriended Khalidi when the two worked together at the university. The professor spoke on condition of anonymity. Khalidi lectured at the University of Chicago until 2003 while Obama taught law there from 1993 until his election to the Senate in 2004.
Khalidi in 2000 held what was described as a successful fundraiser for Obama's failed bid for a seat in the U.S. House of Representatives, a fact not denied by Khalidi.
Speaking in a joint interview with WND and the John Batchelor Show of New York's WABC Radio and Los Angeles' KFI Radio, Khalidi was asked about his 2000 fundraiser for Obama.
"I was just doing my duties as a Chicago resident to help my local politician," Khalidi stated.
Khalidi said he supports Obama for president "because he is the only candidate who has expressed sympathy for the Palestinian cause."
Khalidi also lauded Obama for "saying he supports talks with Iran. If the U.S. can talk with the Soviet Union during the Cold War, there is no reason it can't talk with the Iranians."
Asked about Obama's role funding the AAAN, Khalidi claimed he had "never heard of the Woods Fund until it popped up on a bunch of blogs a few months ago."
He terminated the call when petitioned further about his links with Obama.
Contacted by phone, Mona Khalidi refused to answer WND's questions about the AAAN's involvement with Obama.
Obama's campaign headquarters did not reply to a list of WND questions sent by e-mail to the senator's press office.
Obama, American terrorist in same circles
Obama served on the board with Ayers, who was a Weathermen leader and has written about his involvement with the group's bombings of the New York City Police headquarters in 1970, the Capitol in 1971 and the Pentagon in 1972.
"I don't regret setting bombs. I feel we didn't do enough," Ayers told the New York Times in an interview released on Sept. 11, 2001
"Everything was absolutely ideal on the day I bombed the Pentagon," Ayers wrote in his memoirs, titled "Fugitive Days." He continued with a disclaimer that he didn't personally set the bombs, but his group set the explosives and planned the attack.
A $200 campaign contribution is listed on April 2, 2001 by the "Friends of Barack Obama" campaign fund. The two taught appeared speaking together at several public events, including a 1997 University of Chicago panel entitled, "Should a child ever be called a 'super predator?'" and another panel for the University of Illinois in April 2002, entitled, "Intellectuals: Who Needs Them?"
The charges against Ayers were dropped in 1974 because of prosecutorial misconduct, including illegal surveillance.
Ayers is married to another notorious Weathermen terrorist, Bernadine Dohrn, who has also served on panels with Obama. Dohrn was once on the FBI's Top 10 Most Wanted List and was described by J. Edgar Hoover as the "most dangerous woman in America." Ayers and Dohrn raised the son of Weathermen terrorist Kathy Boudin, who was serving a sentence for participating in a 1981 murder and robbery that left 4 people dead.
Obama advisor wants talks with terrorists
The revelations about Obama's relationship with Khalidi follows a recent WND article quoting Israeli security officials who expressed "concern" about Robert Malley, an adviser to Obama who has advocated negotiations with Hamas and providing international assistance to the terrorist group.
Malley, a principal Obama foreign policy adviser, has penned numerous opinion articles, many of them co-written with a former adviser to the late Palestinian Authority President Yasser Arafat, petitioning for dialogue with Hamas and blasting Israel for numerous policies he says harm the Palestinian cause.
Malley also previously penned a well-circulated New York Review of Books piece largely blaming Israel for the collapse of the Israeli-Palestinian negotiations at Camp David in 2000 when Arafat turned down a Palestinian state in the West Bank, Gaza and eastern sections of Jerusalem and instead returned to the Middle East to launch an intifada, or terrorist campaign, against the Jewish state.
Malley's contentions have been strongly refuted by key participants at Camp David, including President Bill Clinton, then-Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Barak and primary U.S. envoy to the Middle East Dennis Ross, all of whom squarely blamed Arafat's refusal to make peace for the talks' failure. .... |
| Dave, NY |
| 11:05 October 22 |
People assume Obama will help the economy. Based on what? That's not a hypothetical, I'm serious. How will his ideological stances about the redistribution of wealth HELP? Won't it minimize the drive to succeed even further? If I'm a successful business person, why in the world would I want to do business in America under an Obama administration? Because the socialist-leaning tendancies he has tells me this: if I earn too much, if I'm too successful, well... we gotta "spread the wealth." Which means I'd spread my jobs to other countries, where doing business is cheaper. Definitely NOT good for America.
I guess the answer is this: Do you think we should reward the hardest working citizens by letting them keep what they earn, or do you think we should enable those who refuse to work and legitimize laziness?
Sadly, in a democratic society, where the poor and lazy breed the quickest, you eventually become a nation looking for handouts and 'compassion,' not self-sufficiency. But what happens when the poor outnumber the rich? When even taxing the business owners and wealthy/upper middle class by an insane percentage doesn't cover all our "social programs?"
America crumbles; financially, morally, and socially.
So many are voting for Obama, and when asked why, their reasons aren't based in reason at all - it's an emotional reaction. It's a moment of inspiration, a warm and fuzzy feeling, it's that opaque word "change" that no one can define. Obama is a religion, not a candidate. I don't say that to infuriate the other side; I say it based on the videos of crying, shaking middle aged women. Of interviews where people can't define what he stands for, only that itl's "change we need."
The "change we need" is this: Democrats, quit the blind rage. Quit buying in to the idea that you are oppressed, not given a fair shot, unable to succeed, or the victim of some elaborate conspiracy. EVERY ONE of us is able to succeed in America. EVERY ONE of us has a chance to finish college, own a business, buy a home, or work our way up the corporate ladder. You are being manipulated by liberal politicians who need you to be victimized so they can win your vote. You are not as powerless as your leaders claim. Quit buying into the BS and reclaim your power. But when you do, remember this: it requires self-sufficiency, sacrifice, and hard work. Can you do it?
If the answer's no, then you ARE held back - but only by yourself.
McCain and Bush are about as different as you can get while still being in the same party. If you're middle of the road, and aren't sure where you lean, McCain's your guy. He's not Bush, and he's certainly not Obama.
He, also, is the "change we need." .... |
| Casey, WA |
| 08:23 October 22 |
Ok.., let us deconstruct a post from the other side which you
found helpful.
Eleonore's post regarding the economy.
1. ""Economically, I get very nervous about the neo-conservative ideal that big business and the market can do no wrong. That kind of ideal allowed such scandals as Enron, the California energy crisis, Tyco, and WorldCom to happen, and who knows what else is going on out there. ""
**** The free market is a principle, an idealology. It is not responsible for scandals. PEOPLE are
responsible for scandals; those who abuse their position, no matter what variant of economic
scheme is used. ( free market, socialist.., etc..)
2. "" I am so very, very against shipping American jobs overseas, which is something that John McCain has never denied he would do, while Obama has specified he would fight against it.""
******** Unfortunately for Eleonore, MORE jobs will be shipped overseas with an Obama administration.
You see, when you raise taxes and capital gains taxes on corporations, a few things will occur ; 1. the
cost will be passes on to consumers. 2. they will scale back thier workforce ( loss of jobs ) and 3. they will
ship jobs overseas where the labor is cheaper and the taxes can be avoided.
3. "" The current state of the financial sector represents this kind of neo-conservative free-wheeling irresponsibility: regulations on the housing and banking industry were loosened (while laws for people to personally declare bankruptcy were extremely tightened), and business sought to amass as much money in the books as quickly as possible, which then led to the bubble bursting""
*********** Funny how things are just thrown out there with nothing to back them up. Regulations on the
housing and banking industries were loosened by CLINTON. he signed into law the deregulation of
banks ( so that traditional saving banks could now join investment banks in the stock market ).
http://library.findlaw.com/200...
http://www.cnn.com/ALLPOLITICS...
This is how the banks were able to merge with investment banks/ insurance groups and then
buy up all those bad sub-prime loans.
Here is video of all the Democrats ( recieving campaign donations ) saying how all is well with
fannie and freddie, when the REPUBLICAN were calling for REFORM.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v...
4. "" Now we’re all in this mess where I, as a taxpayer, am forced to bail out these industries with little or no punishment to these industries for their actions. It’s really the opposite of a free market: in a free market, if you make a bad business decision, you have to live with it! ""
*** Certainly, they should have been allowed to collapse, if they would not destroy the economy.
Unfortunately, because of the deregulation, they do ( and did ) have an impact on the economy.
5. "" I understand that the bailouts were necessary to preserve the state of the economy and all, but the structure of the bailout gives zero incentive or regulation for something like it not to happen again. This is something that Obama has spoken on numerous times: that the economy and the market must become more responsible unto itself. ""
**** there should not be a bailout, rather a 'workout' ( i.e. a loan ). The regulations which were
taken away by Clinton should be put back into place. As for Obama.., it is quite easy to sit back and watch and see when something becomes unpopular, and then to comeout and condemn it. He has 143 days in the senate,
and most of his votes have been 'present' ( or not voting ). That's how you take a stand, yes ? There's change
for you, just wait until things have gone one way or the other, then comeout for the more popular stance.
How ingenuous...
his voting record..:
http://obama.senate.gov/votes/... .... |
| Lance, NY |
|
|
JOSH FOUND THIS HELPFUL Extremely helpful. And by helpful, I mean that I think you have brought up some very important points that could help me form my decision, pending my own research and consideration. -Josh Gross
|
| 01:55 October 22 |
Because McCain listens to August Burns Red.
That there sells me. |
| Logan, PA |
| 22:13 October 21 |
| Health care...if you go Obama we will end up with socialized medicine. Going to the DMV is bad enough...now imagine that for your next trip to the doctor...that's enough to send you to the ER right now! |
| mary, CA |
| 21:29 October 21 |
Answering your follow-up question here Josh. You asked:
"What earmarks are you referring to? I'm curious."
(In reference to my post, Sam from NY on 05:22 10/19)
From the San Francisco Gate, the bailout bill included:
-$2 million tax benefit for makers of wooden arrows for children
-$100 million tax break to benefit auto racetrack owners
-$192 million in rebates on excise taxes for the Puerto Rican and Virgin Islands rum industry
-$148 million in tax relief for U.S. wool fabric producer
-A $49 million tax benefit for fishermen and other plaintiffs who sued over the 1989 tanker Exxon Valdez spill.
You know...only the essentials.
When McCain was confronted about his passing of the bill despite him campaigning on this 'absolutely no earmarks' position, he simply stated the bill was important and should be passed. Fact is, given all the country's turmoil, economic and otherwise, there are going to be a lot of important bills in the future. Unfortunately, those too will probably receive the same treatment.
Sam, NY
JOSH FOUND THIS HELPFUL
Wow. That is scary stuff.
Thanks for following up. I'll be checking up on this. -Josh Gross
Obama voted for that same Bailout. Shouldn't that one be a tie, Josh? .... |
| Trisha, KS |
| 21:25 October 21 |
Official Title of Legislation: HR 5140 "Economic Stimulus Plan"
02/07/2008
HR 5140: To provide economic stimulus through recovery rebates to individuals, incentives for business investment, and an increase in conforming and FHA loan limits.
Highlights:
- Allows a tax credit in 2008 of an amount equal to an individual's net income tax liability or $600 (or $1,200 for a joint return), whichever is less (Sec. 101).
- Allows at least a $300 tax credit (or a $600 credit for a joint return) for taxpayers who have a qualified income of at least $3,000 (Sec. 101).
- Defines "qualified income" as earned income, social security benefits for seniors and tier 1 railroad retirees, and certain veterans' compensations and pensions (Sec. 101).
- Allows a $300 tax credit per child (Sec. 101).
- Denies eligibility to undocumented immigrants (Sec. 101).
- Appropriates an additional $266.31 million for the Department of Treasury, to remain available until September 30, 2009 (Sec. 101).
- Increases the limits on the maximum original principal obligation of mortgages for Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, and for the Federal Housing Administration (Sec. 201, 202).
Obama: Did Not Vote
Official Title of Legislation: HR 6 "Energy Act of 2007"
12/31/07
HR 6: An Act to move the United States toward greater energy independence and security, to increase the production of clean renewable fuels, to protect consumers, to increase the efficiency of products, buildings, and vehicles, to promote research on and deploy greenhouse gas capture and storage options, and to improve the energy performance of the Federal Government, and for other purposes.
Highlights:
-Increases Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE) to 35 miles per gallon by the year 2020 (Sec. 102).
-Requires a minimum standard of 27.5 miles per gallon for domestic passenger vehicles (Sec. 102).
-Requires an increase in the production of renewable fuels from 4.0 billion gallons to 36.0 billion gallons by 2022 (Sec. 202).
-Stipulates that all renewable fuel refineries built after enactment of this bill reduce greenhouse gas emissions by at least 20 percent of the current baseline (Sec. 202).
-Increases energy efficiency standards for certain household appliances, battery chargers, walk-in coolers and freezers, electric motors, light bulbs, and other devices (Title III).
- Establishes the Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy Worker Training Program to provide training to veterans, unemployed individuals, and workers impacted by energy and environmental policies (Sec. 1002).
Barack Obama: Did Not Vote
Official Title of Legislation:
S 3186: A bill to provide funding for the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program. Vote to invoke closure on a bill that would appropriate an additional $2.53 billion to the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program for the fiscal year 2008.
Barack Obama: DID NOT VOTE!
Official Title of Legislation:
HR 3043: Making appropriations for the Departments of Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education, and related agencies for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2008, and for other purposes.
Highlights:
-Provides that Iraqi and Afghan immigrants who are granted special immigrant status are eligible for up to six months of resettlement assistance and entitlement programs available to refugees (Sec. 525).
-Prohibits funds in the bill from being used to implement a totalization agreement between the Social Security programs of the United States and Mexico (Sec. 526).
-$13.63 billion for the Department of Labor, including $3.37 billion for training and employment services, $3.47 billion for state unemployment insurance and employment service operations, and $1.65 billion for the office of the Job Corps
-$480.03 billion for the Department of Health and Human Services, including $30.01 billion for the National Institutes of Health, $401.41 billion for the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, and $27.32 billion for the Administration for Children and Families
-$63.58 billion for the Department of Education, including $16.38 billion for student financial assistance, $15.93 billion for education for the disadvantaged, and $12.36 billion for special education
-$53.98 for related agencies, including $51.81 billion for the Social Security Administration, $1.35 billion for the Corporation for National and Community Service, and $420.00 million for the Corporation for Public Broadcasting
Barack Obama: DID NOT VOTE
And finally...
Official Title of Legislation: 2008 Budget Resolution
S Con Res 21: An original concurrent resolution setting forth the congressional budget for the United States Government for fiscal year 2008 and including the appropriate budgetary levels for fiscal years 2007 and 2009 through 2012.
Highlights:
-Sets the following budget outlays for 2007 through 2012 in major funding categories:
-$7.48 trillion for Social Security, including $2.95 trillion for Federal Old-Age and Survivors Insurance Trust Fund and Federal Disability Insurance Trust Fund
-$3.22 trillion for national defense
-$2.59 trillion for Medicare
-$2.36 trillion for Income Security
-$1.90 trillion for health
-$572.31 billion for education, training, employment, and social services
-$121.19 billion for agriculture
-$9.84 billion for energy
-States that the Senate cannot consider bills that would increase the budget deficit, and cannot use prior budget surplus or the Pay-As-You-Go ledger (Title II (Sec. 201))
-Establishes deficit-neutral reserve funds for SCHIP legislation, veterans and the wounded, tax relief, Medicare improvements, health care "quality, effectiveness, efficiency, and transparency", higher education, the farm bill, energy legislation, immigration reform in the Senate, Medicaid, and other purposes (Title III)
-Requires that by Sepetember 10, 2007 the House Committee on Education and Labor to report to the House changes in laws that will reduce the deficit by $750 million for the time period of fiscal years 2007 through 2012 (Title VI (Sec. 601))
-Requires that by September 10, 2007, the Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions will report changes in laws to reduce the deficit by $750 million for the time period of fiscal years 2007 through 2012 (Title VI (Sec. 602)
Obama, who apparently disagrees with George Bush on everything, who has oppenly opposed Bush's spending policies... voted YES to this Budget. .... |
| Dave, NY |
| 21:09 October 21 |
Obama, who has no military service record, has shown via his political history in Illinois, that he is a nearly perfect Progressive-Democrat.
While in the Illinois State Senate, Obama is named Chairman of the Health and Human Services Committee. His distinguished works include passing bill to assist children and adults who cannot afford health insurance; increasing funding for AIDS prevention and care; a law requiring police to videotape interrogations for crimes punishable by the death penalty; a law requiring insurance companies to cover routine mammograms; legislation to curb racial profiling.
Obama supports homosexual marriage, racial preferences, banning all guns, flag-burning, socialized medicine and the absolute right to abortion, including partial-birth abortions. He voted against requiring medical care for aborted fetuses who survive.
Obama is anti-war, voted against the reauthorization of the USA Patriot Act, against privatizing Social Security and opposes the death penalty, three strikes laws and school vouchers. He has no military service record. He strongly supports the decriminalization of marijuana.
Obama opposed the Defense of Marriage Act; would work to repeal it in the U.S. Senate; would not vote for any legislation that would restrict the ability of gays and lesbians to marry.
Obama opposed the Born Alive Infant Protection Act four times in Illinois. A similar bill passed the U.S. Senate 98-0. The Born Alive bill would have prohibited a baby from being born alive but left to die according to the mother's wishes.
Obama opposed this bill not once, twice, or three times, but four times.
Obama took almost $90,000 in bundled contributions from the Council for a Livable World. The council is a well-known anti-defense organization.
Obama puts rigid ideology before what's best for the people of Illinois, and presumably he would do that as President as well. He has on several occasions made public his opposition to the NAFTA trade agreement and his belief that it must be negotiated. All the while thanks to NAFTA, Illinois exports $1.3 billion in agricultural goods to Canada.
Obama refused to vote for a bill in the Illinois State Senate that would have increased penalties for drug traffickers.
Obama voted against a bill that would have delivered the death penalty to gang members who murder first responders.
Obama was the only member of the Illinois State Senate to vote against a bill that prohibited early release for sexual predators.
http://www.votesmart.org/votin... .... |
| Dave, NY |
| 21:01 October 21 |
Baseline Obama's "General Candidate Questionnaire" was completed during his first run for the Illinois State Senate makes for some interesting reading.
Among his responses are the following:
"I have been a financial support of...Alice Palmer" -- Alice Palmer was a board member of the US Peace Council, identified by the FBI as a front organization of the Communist Party USA. She attended the 27th Congress of the Communist Party of the Soviet Union and came away favorably impressed by the Soviet system.
...state why you feel you should be endorsed... -- "...long-standing commitment to social justice issues." -- Social Justice: Code for Communism
Please outline...criteria for hiring and promoting public employees. -- "I am a strong supporter of affirmative action programs that ensure qualified minorities, women and gays and lesbians are actively recruited and supported at all levels of government.
Biographical sketch -- ...five years working as community organizer, first in Harlem, then in Chicago. -- When did Obama organize in Harlem? Was this what he was doing when he claimed to be at Columbia University? Why is it that no one remembers ever seeing him at Columbia? Why is there no picture of him in the yearbook?
...recipient of the 1995 Legal Eagle Award...for his work in bringing Illinois into compliance with the National Voter Registration Act (Motor Voter).
...serves on the boards of...Chicago Annenberg Challenge (Chairman), the Joyce Foundation (anti-gun), the Woods Fund of Chicago, Center for Neighborhood Technology, the Chicago Committee for Civil Rights Under the Law and Public Allies.
...is married to Michelle Obama and is a member of Trinity United Church of Christ. (pastor: Rev. Jeremiah A. Wright)
Do you support Merit Selection of judges? -- Yes, although it would be important to construct a system that ensures adequate minority representation on the bench... -- Obama supports quotas.
Do you support increasing income taxes to relieve or replace property taxes? Yes.
Will you vote to increase state funding (taxes) to at least 50% of public education costs? Yes.
Do you support vouchers or other means of public funding for private or parochial schools? No.
Do you support public financing of election campaigns? Yes. -- He just won't use those monies -- It limits his foreign contributions.
Do you favor adding sexual orientation to Human Rights Act? Yes.
Do you favor domestic partnership legislation? Yes.
Do you favor amending professional Regulation legislation to prohibit discrimination against board-certified graduates of foreign schools? Yes.
Do you support mandatory AIDS testing for insurance or employment? No.
Do you favor comparable worth for state employees? Yes -- a truly bad notion.
Do you support the right of public employees to strike? Yes. -- he doesn't exempt cops and firemen.
Do you support family leave legislation for private employment? Yes.
What is You Position on raising the minimum wage? I support it.
What is You Position on establishing a lower minimum wage for minors? Opposed.
What is You Position on including farm workers and household employees under existing labor laws? Support.
W ill you support a single-payer health plan for Illinois? Yes. -- Socialized medicine.
Do you support Medicaid funding for abortions? Yes.
Do you support insurance coverage of abortions for state employees? Yes.
Do you support parental consent/notification for minors seeking abortions? Depends on how
young -- possibly for extremely young teens, i.e. 12 or 13 year olds.
Do you support any other restrictions on abortions. No. -- and that includes partial birth abortions.
Do you support cost of living adjustment for public aid recipients? Yes.
Do you support workfare? Yes.
Do you support restrictions on welfare benefits for teen mothers? No.
Do you support restrictions on benefits for women who have children while on welfare? No. -- Go for it girls -- see if you can set a new record -- the more the merrier!
Do you support repeal of the six month limit for receiving general assistance? Yes. -- Welfare for life!
Do you support restoration of the Aid to the Medical Indigent program. Yes. -- Welfare for bums!
Do you support capital punishment? No.
Do you support criminal prosecution of juveniles as adults? No. -- Not even if they commit multiple murders?
Do you support mandatory sentencing? No.
Do you support work release, home monitoring, other alternative sentencing? Yes. -- Rezko will be thrilled.
Do you support state legislation to ban the manufacture, sale and possession of handguns? Yes.
Do you support state legislation to ban assault weapons? Yes.
Do you support state legislation to mandatory waiting periods and background checks? Yes.
Link to PDF File showing the full completed questionaire: http://www.politico.com/static...
Some of these answers you might support.. actually, some of them I support, i.e. an assault rifle ban. But this will give you an idea of his principles that he states plainly in this quesionaire .... |
| Dave, NY |
| 20:56 October 21 |
| Obama claims that "I…extended health care for wounded troops who had been neglected." Wow, that's quite an accomplishment for a single Senator. The ad cites Public Law 110-181, the 2008 National Defense Authorization Act. Funny thing, though: Obama didn't show up to vote on that bill in the Senate |
| hillary, ME |
| 20:50 October 21 |
4/21/08
While Obama has been campaigning, his duties in the Senate have taken a hit.
"The Democratic Republic of the Congo Relief, Security, and Diplomacy Promotion Act of 2006," is one of his two legislative accomplishment since joining the Senate.
In the more than three years that Obama has been in the Senate, his first bill sends American taxpayer's money to Africa, under the guise of promoting democracy in the Democratic Republic of Congo -- good luck with that.
His second great accomplishment -- he sponsored a bill to name a post office.
http://thomas.loc.gov/cgi-bin/... |
| Dave, NY |
| 18:36 October 21 |
| I hear McCain came to a CJ volleyball game in 2000 and commented about them being a juggernaut....Just saying. |
| Craig, OH |
|
|
JOSH FOUND THIS UNHELPFUL
|
|
|
Haha, nice try Craig! -Josh Gross
|
| 17:28 October 21 |
Josh
There are too many posts that describe how taxation works for small businesses. Regardless of whether the person owns a corporation or is a sole proprietor, they are only taxed on net income by the federal government. Net income is all the money left over after deductions (in other words expenses).
A person that owns a small consulting business that has gross receipts (sales) of $700,000 can deduct his/her house ($1,500/month - has to prove the sq ft. are used for business), car (rental, depreciation, mileage, gas, etc..), travel (so long as they can prove - pretty easy that it was for business), entertainment (only 50% deductible -so pretty much any: nightclub receipts, dinners out, baseball games, etc...), clothing, etc...
And, any office equipment can be depreciated : microwave, flat screen, dvd, laptop, etc...
all employees, health care expenses, etc... all get deducted.
So anything left is treated as Net Income. That is what gets taxed.
That is why going to a flat or fair tax would make so much more sense, deductions/loopholes would be removed.
Anyone who favors a flat or fair tax supports McCain. .... |
| m |
|
|
JOSH FOUND THIS HELPFUL Thanks for breaking it down, I'll look into it. -Josh Gross
|
| 13:47 October 21 |
| Because John McCain was in Wedding Crashers! |
| Vince, DC |
| 12:56 October 21 |
| The below Dave from NY is not me. And I'm quoting The Wall Street Journal which I prefer to think is more credible, more well-versed, and better equipped on this matter than "chron.com" |
| The REAL Dave, NY |
| 12:44 October 21 |
Whoops, looks like I was wrong... sorry.
"Looking at all the tax filers who report any business income at all, the Tax Policy Center confirms that about 2 percent will see their taxes increase under Obama's plan."
http://www.chron.com/disp/stor... |
| Dave, NY |
| 12:31 October 21 |
"Socking It to Small Business"
The Obama plan is an incentive to hire fewer workers.
Barack Obama declared last week that his economic plan begins with "one word that's on everyone's mind and it's spelled J-O-B-S." This raises the stubborn question that Senator Obama has never satisfactorily answered: How do you create more jobs when you want to levy higher tax rates on the small business owners who are the nation's primary employers?
Loyal Democrats have howled over the claim that small businesses will get soaked by the Obama tax plan, so we thought we would seek an authority they might trust on the issue: Democratic Senate Finance Chairman Max Baucus of Montana. Here is what Mr. Baucus wrote in a joint press release with Iowa Republican Charles Grassley on August 20, 2001, when they supported the income tax rate cuts that Mr. Obama wants to repeal:
". . . when the new tax relief law is fully phased in, entrepreneurs and small businesses -- owners of sole proprietorships, partnerships, S corporations, and farms -- will receive 80 percent of the tax relief associated with reducing the top income tax rates of 36 percent to 33 percent and 39.6 percent to 35 percent."
Then they continued with a useful economics tutorial:
"Experts agree that lower taxes increase a business' cash flow, which helps with liquidity constraints during an economic slowdown and could increase the demand for investment and labor."
Twelve Senate Democrats voted for those same tax cuts. And just to be clear on one point: An increase in "the demand for investment and labor" translates into an increase in J-O-B-S. So if lowering these tax rates creates jobs, then it stands to reason that raising these taxes will mean fewer jobs. From 2003 to 2007 with the lower tax rates in place, the U.S. economy added eight million jobs, or about 125,000 per month. The Small Business Administration says small business wrote the paychecks for up to 80% of new jobs in 2005, for example.
Mr. Obama's tax increase would hit the bottom line of small businesses in three direct ways. First, because 85% of small business owners are taxed at the personal income tax rate, any moderately successful business with an income above as little as $165,000 a year could face a higher tax liability. That's the income level at which the 33% income tax bracket now phases in for individuals, and Mr. Obama would raise that tax rate for those businesses to 36%.
Second, the Obama plan phases out tax deductions (the so-called PEP and Pease provisions), thus raising tax rates imposed on this group by another 1.5 percentage points. Finally, Mr. Obama would require many small business owners to pay as much as a four-percentage-point payroll tax surcharge on net income above $250,000. All of this would bring the federal marginal small business tax rate up to nearly 45%, while big business would continue to pay the 35% corporate tax rate.
Mr. Obama responds that more than nine of 10 small businesses would not pay these higher taxes. Last Thursday he scoffed in response to the debate over Joe the Plumber, saying that not too many plumbers "make more than $250,000 a year." He's right that most of the 35 million small businesses in America have a net income of less than $250,000, hire only a few workers, and stay in business for less than four years.
However, the point is that it is the most successful small- and medium-sized businesses that create most of the new jobs in our dynamic society. And they are precisely the businesses that will be slammed by Mr. Obama's tax increase. Joe the Plumber would get hit if he expanded his business and hired 10 to 15 other plumbers. An analysis by the Senate Finance Committee found that of the filers in the highest two tax brackets, three out of four are small business owners. A typical firm with a net income of $500,000 would see its tax burden rise to $166,000 a year under the Obama plan from $146,000 today.
According to a Gallup survey conducted for the National Federation of Independent Business last December and January, only 10% of all businesses that hire between one and nine employees would pay the Obama tax. But 19.5% of employers with 10 to 19 employees would be socked by the tax. And 50% of businesses with 20 to 249 workers would pay the tax. The Obama plan is an incentive to hire fewer workers.
For many months Mr. Obama and his band of economists have claimed that taxes don't matter much to growth or job creation. But only last week Mr. Obama effectively admitted that even he doesn't believe this. His latest "stimulus" proposal includes a $3,000 refundable tax credit for businesses that hire new workers in 2009 or 2010.
So what sense does it make to offer targeted and temporary tax relief for some small businesses, while raising taxes by far more and permanently on others? Raising marginal tax rates on farmers, ranchers, sole proprietors and small business owners is no way to stimulate the economy -- and it's certainly no way to create J-O-B-S.
http://online.wsj.com/article/... .... |
| Dave, NY |
|
|
JOSH FOUND THIS HELPFUL Thank you Real Dave, NY -Josh Gross
|
| 12:29 October 21 |
From the Wall Street Journal. (Link Provided Below)
Obama's Fault Tax Argument
As the presidential campaign heats up, a key issue is whether to extend the 2001 and 2003 income tax cuts, which expire in 2011. John McCain wants to make the tax cuts permanent. Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton want to let the rates rise.
Opponents of the tax cuts point to spending programs that could be financed by the extra revenues. Chief among these is Social Security. Sen. Obama's Web site, for example, argues that "extending the Bush tax cuts will cost three times as much as what is needed to fix Social Security's solvency over the next 75 years."
Such statements imply that if we return to the seemingly modest tax rates of the 1990s, we could fund the $4.3 trillion Social Security deficit, and so much more. As Mr. Obama recently told Fox News, "I would roll back the Bush tax cuts on the wealthiest Americans back to the level they were under Bill Clinton, when I don't remember rich people feeling oppressed."
This argument seems compelling, but it is misguided. In reality, repealing the tax cuts would raise taxes far above Clinton-era levels. Due to quirks in the tax code, average taxes would be almost 25% higher than during the 1990s.
Mr. Obama's claim that the lost revenue from the income-tax cuts exceeds the Social Security shortfall derives from an analysis by the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities. The Center's conclusions have been widely cited, but rely on dubious assumptions.
The basic methodology is simple: Compare the income-tax revenues if the tax cuts expire to revenues if the tax cuts are extended. The Center measures the difference in revenue 10 years from now – to match the government's 10-year budget measurement period – then extends the difference over 75 years to make it comparable to the 75-year Social Security shortfall.
To account for the effects of inflation and economic growth, analysts compare tax revenues to the size of the economy. The Congressional Budget Office projects that if the tax cuts expire, income-tax receipts in 2018 will be 1.5% higher relative to gross domestic product than if the cuts are made permanent. By comparison, Social Security's 75-year shortfall is just 0.6% of GDP.
So Social Security is a costly problem, but the tax cuts cost much more. Open and shut case, right?
Not exactly. Tax revenues would skyrocket if the tax cuts expire, due to "bracket creep." Average incomes are higher today than in the 1990s, but income-tax brackets aren't adjusted for the growth of earnings. As a result, Americans will shift into higher tax brackets and pay a greater share of their incomes in taxes.
Going back to the tax rates of the 1990s doesn't mean that households will pay 1990s taxes. Because the tax brackets haven't risen along with incomes, average taxes would be significantly higher, and grow each year.
If the tax cuts expire, income-tax revenues by 2018 will rise to 10.8% of the total economy from 8.7% today – an increase of 24%. Compared to the average over the last 50 years, allowing the rates to rise would increase tax revenues by 32%.
Believe it or not, income taxes will rise even if the tax cuts remain in place, because the revenue-increasing effects of bracket creep more than offset the lower rates. With the lower rates, total income-tax revenues will increase to 9.3% of GDP by 2018. This level is 7% higher than today, and 13% above the 1957-2007 average. Thus even with the tax cuts, revenues will increase by more than enough to fix Social Security.
So even if the tax cuts are made permanent, future Americans will pay a greater share of their incomes to the government than in the past. But for some in Washington, that's not enough.
Not surprisingly, neither party highlights these rising tax receipts. They undercut liberal arguments that the government is starved of revenue. And they render conservative claims for the tax cuts unimpressive. ("Vote GOP: A smaller tax increase than the other guys!")
The next president will face difficult choices regarding how much to collect in taxes, and how much to spend on entitlements like Social Security. Future citizens may decide that paying higher taxes is worthwhile. But in any event, the misleading tax cuts vs. Social Security argument should not guide policy makers on this issue.
http://online.wsj.com/article/... .... |
| Dave, NY |
|
|
JOSH FOUND THIS HELPFUL This is a particularly important issue to me. Thanks for the link. -Josh Gross
|
| 12:08 October 21 |
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Saturday, September 27, 2008
Contact: Jessica Robinson, 573-751-0290
---------------------------------------------------------------
Gov. Blunt Statement on Obama Campaign’s Abusive Use of Missouri Law Enforcement
JEFFERSON CITY - Gov. Matt Blunt today issued the following statement on news reports that have exposed plans by U.S. Senator Barack Obama to use Missouri law enforcement to threaten and intimidate his critics.
“St. Louis County Circuit Attorney Bob McCulloch, St. Louis City Circuit Attorney Jennifer Joyce, Jefferson County Sheriff Glenn Boyer, and Obama and the leader of his Missouri campaign Senator Claire McCaskill have attached the stench of police state tactics to the Obama-Biden campaign.
“What Senator Obama and his helpers are doing is scandalous beyond words, the party that claims to be the party of Thomas Jefferson is abusing the justice system and offices of public trust to silence political criticism with threats of prosecution and criminal punishment.
“This abuse of the law for intimidation insults the most sacred principles and ideals of Jefferson. I can think of nothing more offensive to Jefferson’s thinking than using the power of the state to deprive Americans of their civil rights. The only conceivable purpose of Messrs. McCulloch, Obama and the others is to frighten people away from expressing themselves, to chill free and open debate, to suppress support and donations to conservative organizations targeted by this anti-civil rights, to strangle criticism of Mr. Obama, to suppress ads about his support of higher taxes, and to choke out criticism on television, radio, the Internet, blogs, e-mail and daily conversation about the election.
“Barack Obama needs to grow up. Leftist blogs and others in the press constantly say false things about me and my family. Usually, we ignore false and scurrilous accusations because the purveyors have no credibility. When necessary, we refute them. Enlisting Missouri law enforcement to intimidate people and kill free debate is reminiscent of the Sedition Acts - not a free society.”
http://governor.mo.gov/cgi-bin... .... |
| Josh, MO |
|
|
Ok, so Matt Blunt is pissed. But what exactly did Obama do? -Josh Gross
|
| 08:26 October 21 |
Josh, check this out.....
Why won't he just provide the documentation? Whether or not it is true, he is just being sneaking and unfaithful to the American public!
http://www.americanthinker.com...
Vote McCain....otherwise prepare to become a socialism country |
| Melanie, DC |
| 06:07 October 21 |
| If you work for a mid to small business (and like your job) vote McCain. Democrats just have a history of killing small businesses with outrageous taxes. They mean good, as they think that they are taxing just the super rich, but they forget about the small business owners. They look rich on paper, but actually put their money into growing their companies (aka, more jobs). |
| vin, PA |
| 00:03 October 21 |
There's a lot of misconception going on regarding the 250K and up tax plan as outlined by Obama and his campaign. There's also a misconception that only a small fraction of small business make that much. The truth is that small businesses include more than just the local thrift store down the block thats rent controlled.
Small businesses include, but are not limited to: independant stores, independant restaurants/bars/coffee shops, etc, franchise locations not in any way subsidised by the parent company (which includes most fast-food rests, snack and coffee locations, some gas stations, etc).
I'll focus on the restaurant and bar industry as that is what I know best out of all of these. Let me by perfectly clear: It is IMPOSIBLE to run my bar and NOT make more than 250K, the average cost of operating a restaurant/bar (in westchester county) is 500K a year, and often that's just to break close to even.
Break it down:
$250,000 / yr = $20,833 / month (12 months)
$20,833 / month = $5208 / week
5K a week SOUNDS like a lot, but don't think for a second that that's what the boss takes home. If my bar only took in 5K a week I'd be out of business in a matter of months.
Break it down further. I have 16 employees making an average of 7 dollars an hour. This accounts for the below min. wage hourly rate that waiters, bussers, and servers recieve because the government counts gratuity (i.e. tips) as taxable income and thusly a waiter does not need to be paid minimum wage and they rarely ever are. But accounting for non-gratuity positions, including a few front of house hosts and the kitchen staff my average payroll includes:
13 Full Time Time employees + 3 Part Time employees working an average of 30 hours/week at $7/hour = $3920 / week in payroll
NOW Let's see what we have in some basic costs. Food/beverage costs (on avg: 1500/week = 6,000/month), utlities including gas and electric (varies by season but call it between 600-900/month), various insurance, permits, and other neccesary costs just to stay open (500/month), garbage disposal (300/month), and rent (7,000/month), and of course let's not forget our payroll of 3920/week which monthly comes to 13160... and we have: $27,560 / month in operating costs based SOLELY on keeping the door open, the food and beverages ready to serve, and the employees,..well, employed.
$27,560
I also didn't factor in the day to day costs of running what is absolutely a small business. Costs like pest control, dry and non-reuseable goods such as soap, paper towles, napkins, checks, credit card machine paper, pens, pencils, assorted office supplies that need to be constantly replenished, etc), not to mention (speaking about credit card machine) the fee you pay for credit card processing. That's ANOTHER $1200
$28,760
And let's not forget light bulbs, carpet cleaning (unless you do it yourself but then you have to purchase and maintain the materials to do so), payroll processing (which fewer businesses do themselves these days), if you have a commercial kitchen you need to have your grill hoods cleaned quarterly, you need someone to dispose of the spent grease from your deep fryer, etc.. And that's another (on avg) $900/ quarter = $3600 / year / $300 month
$29,006
You also need to print up and maintain your menus, constantly reprinting take-out menus (if that applies to your place), worry about marketing and advertising costs because any decent business does SOME form of advertising and promotion,etc, etc, etc.. On avg (for me) an additional $800/month
$29,806
But there's also social security, NYS Disability, Workers compensation, and of course the EXISTING Taxes paid both to the State and Federal Government which all combined equals roughly an additional $1000/month.
$30,806 / month In operating / running expenses just to keep the place open, stocked, ready for business, and compliant with local, state, and federal law.
$30,806 a month X 12 months = $369,672 / yr JUST TO BREAK EVEN.
This also doesn't account for sudden, unexpected expenses such as replacing furniture, cooking equipment, broken appliances, etc.
So remember what you consider to be a small business is actually quite large and in depth. We have to take in just UNDER 370K to break even before we even THINK about turning a profit.
Couple that with a few hard, industry truths: Weeknights will never be as lucrative as weekend nights (Mon-Weds night will often equial ONE weekend night). Daytime will never be as lucrative as nighttime (Mon-Weds Day MIGHT equal one thursday night), and from November - April business WILL slow down. When you're a bar you tend to have to make the bulk of your money during the summer weekend nights and hope you do well enough the rest of the year to help carry you over.
Just to put it in perspective:
250K / Year Will = $20,833 a month
Our Monthly Costs = $30,806 a month
For a Difference Of = -$9973 a month
And after all that, there's those unexpected expenses and the above "nature of the industry" factors whose impact we haven't even explored in detail.
Oh, and by the way, Small Businesses are the number one source of jobs in the United States. So realize that after all is said and done.. that tiny little bar at the end of the street is INDEED a small business, and they account for a hell of a lot more of the economy then you might think.
And just so if you wonder... a sole proprietorship such as myself is taxed on EARNINGS, not profits. Every dollar that comes into my bar counts as earnings. Regardless of what I take home at the end of the day, regardless of IF if I take home anything at the end of the day. There's no differentiation between the money that comes into the business and the money that comes out. So even though I need 300K+ a year to operate EVEN of that only means breaking even.. I get taxed on everything the bar takes in. It counts as personal income. HENCE. TAXES UP!
If I'm lucky maybe I can stay open long enough to pay my increased taxes. YAY! .... |
| Richard, NY |
|
|
JOSH FOUND THIS HELPFUL
|
| 23:44 October 20 |
Look at the facts Josh. You have Anti-American world leaders like Hugo Chavez and Fidel Castro endorsing Obama. Not just saying "Well the US is having an election this year.. I'd rather X win than Y," but ACTIVELY hoping for him and praising him. You have both the Socialist and Communist Party ENDORSING him.
He created his own seal/emblem that he is using in favor of the American flag, he puts it on his speech podiums, on his planes, and on his campaign materials. Honestly, what's next? Currency?
You have young children gathering and singing songs of him the likes of which have not been seen since Hitler's Nazi youth.
I'm sorry but the arrogance and entitlement sickens me.
>
You have one bad egg after another that he's associated with. Almost every week there's a new terrorist or questionable character, or fringe group, or nutjob that he's been associated with, been friends with, campaigned with/for, etc...
He's stated plainly that he wants to "spread the wealth around" which is almost VERBATIM MARX.
And we all know that socialism and communism doesn't work.
He has a spending plan that he wants to implement in a time when most Americans want LESS spending, and a tax plan that, as others have illustrated, really doesn't help a significant portion of Americans. McCain has stated that he wants a spending FREEZE. In other words, no more frivolous government spending. Let's stop it all and examine it carefully.
Couple that with accusations of voter tampering/fraud, voter intimidation, ties to foreign funding, and his desire to sit down with leaders of terrorist states without preconditions.
John McCain is really not the answer to America's problems but he does not have these issues facing him, does not have these accusations. No one's connecting him to Hugo Chavez, Fidel Castro, and Karl Marx. These guys aren't CHEERING for John McCain like Chavez, Castro, and the Socialist and Communist Parties are. They are actively CHEERING for Obama.
Do you really need any more of a reason to NOT vote Obama than this?
What more do you need? You've seen how is tax plan will not benefit the middle class as he says it will (the posts on here with relevant cited works support that), you've seen how his healthcare plan will cost America trillions of dollars (also cited), and you've seen how as much as he says he hates the war in Iraq and wants to end it he's comitted himself to being there for another 2 years... so what's the difference between him and McCain in that aspect?
If these things aren't important to you, aren't THAT important to you, or if you just don't really care then hey... fine.. I can't make you care about them. But make no mistake.. most American's taxes WILL increase under Obama's plans, and socialized medicine WILL mandate an almost GUARANTEED 20%-30% increase in our personal taxes. That's GUARANTEED. .... |
| Billy, NY |
| 18:39 October 20 |
A vote for Obama is a vote for a guy who has great design experience - picking swanky hot fonts with tricked out Web 2.0 stuff.
A vote for McCain is a vote for a guy who has principles backed by actual experience. |
| James, WA |
| 18:36 October 20 |
Are you the kind of guy who likes to live on the edge and do something unexpected? Then you just might be maverick enough to vote for the unpopular guy.
You might be edgy enough to vote for a guy with actual experience getting stuff done.
Think of McCain as the guy with the great resume and job experience (his Senate voting record) who isn't doing so hot in the actual job interview (his campaign). But ask yourself, do you want a guy in office who's good at campaigning (schmoozing and yacking) or a guy who's good at working hard and getting stuff done? |
| Joe, CA |
| 17:04 October 20 |
With regard to the tax issue I'd like to clarify that you are taxed on what you earn, NOT what you clear. I.E. A person that is salaried for say... 50K a year is taxed on that 50K. The fact that you wind up with 43K does not factor into the equation.
A lot has been made of The whole 250K thing but I'd like to point out that Obama's plan would increase taxes for the top TWO income tax brackets, which includes individuals and families earning 100K or more. It is THIS tax bracket that people need to pay more attention to as a lot more American's fall into the 100K plus range than the 250K plus range. Check out his own website:
http://www.barackobama.com/tax...
Under his Impact section you'll notice they'res no mention of the impact of the tax cuts going to married couples earning in excess of 90K/yr. The reason for this is the increase in taxes. 100K divided by two people is, obviously, 50K each which is essentially middle class these days.
Source: http://www.washingtontimes.com... .... |
| Brian, IA |
|
|
JOSH FOUND THIS HELPFUL Thanks for the links -Josh Gross
|
| 16:50 October 20 |
First, I'd like to clear up a misconception that another poster wrote. The definition of a "small business" varies, but generally refers to one that employs less than 100 workers & most "small businesses" have incomes well in excess of $250K. The poster who said "98.8% of what is considered a small business, is a company that is earning less that $250K" is confusing the term with a "microbusiness", which is a "mom & pop" operation that employs very few, often part-time, helpers.
I own a company that is unincorporated, has 4 employees with an approximate annual gross revenues of $750K, from which I can only draw a small salary as operating expenses (overhead) are high. If my gross income tax is increased, it directly affects me since it's not differentiated from my salary, as it would be if my business was a corporation & I was considered an officer or employee of the company. Therefore, my personal taxes would increase dramatically under Obama's proposals & I do not support him for this & other reasons. Depending on the size of a tax increase, I might have to terminate 1 employee (who has no dependents).
I know many others in similar situations, as I have friends who are self-employed as electricians, truckers, landscapers & medical personnel (no plumbers) whose gross income is above $250K but whose expenses diminish their REAL earnings. NONE of these people will be voting for Obama (most are probably Republicans anyway).
I recently read a post that suggested that in this election, the voters are split between the "haves" & the "have-nots". I agree with this observation & it appears that the latter group is hoping to benefit from the labors of the former, people like myself who work & contribute to society. .... |
| Kurt, SC |
|
|
JOSH FOUND THIS HELPFUL
|
| 14:31 October 20 |
| because 148 days just isn't enough experience to run a friggin country |
| Cricky, FL |
| 13:56 October 20 |
Jean---
Voting for Obama will not raise your taxes ore require you to personally provide health care to the employees at your small flower shop. Quite the contrary. If you make less than $250,000 annually your taxes will be lowered. Obama also would not make you pay for health care for your employees-- he will make it so they can be covered by universal health care. Please please please please check out the real facts before casting your ballot on Nov. 4. |
| response to Jean, PA |
| 13:47 October 20 |
Josh buddy!
Don't let the liberal influences in California change were you came from. Keep an open mind. There is a lot of negative advise in these opinions. Just go with your gut. Make the decision based on what you think would make the biggest difference in the future of those two beautiful little girls and that fine young man who will someday be your nieces and nephew. Good luck and hope we see you soon. Those little girls miss you guys. See you soon! |
| future brother-in-law, OH |
|
|
JOSH FOUND THIS UNHELPFUL
|
| 13:41 October 20 |
| McCain has more experience. He just seems like that old man you can trust who isn't trying to be a celebrity. McCain is just trying to help the country |
| Jenny, MI |
| 12:47 October 20 |
| he better |
| Anonymous |
|
|
JOSH FOUND THIS UNHELPFUL
|
| 11:25 October 20 |
| Because progressive taxation is one of the enumerated planks of Marxism. |
| Joshua, NC |
| 10:58 October 20 |
| Both parties are viable candidates and I will not be disappointed if either party wins, but I am voting McCain. In spite of the Palin-plunder, I believe he is the most qualified person for the job. Obama, while a charismatic speaker, does not have the experience I believe necessary for being the president of our country. McCain has been stated as being "liberally prone" which will hopefully ensure (as he has been stating in his debates) a direction away from the Bush administration, which has made some poor decisions during some troublesome times. |
| Berger, MN |
| 07:47 October 20 |
| He is the most qualified person for the job, afterall what has the House and Senate accomplish since Polosi and Reed took the Helm |
| Anonymous |
| 05:56 October 20 |
| because Obama Supporters vandalism my property and took down my McCain signs. |
| bjr, NC |
| 04:49 October 20 |
| www.factcheck.org |
| bob, WA |
| 03:52 October 20 |
| Because Obama's supporters scare the fuck out of me. |
| Sarah, NY |
| 00:35 October 20 |
Because McCain asks for your vote, and obama demands it. (wtf?!)
Because McCain has shown proof of citizenship, he's been transparent with his campaign financing, and he's served our country. obama has not disclosed his past nearly as much as McCain, he won't talk about his years at columbia, he won't show his real birth certificate, he has thrown his own family under the bus (hello grandma), and he's gotten a TON of money from overseas in campaign donations (which is illegal).
McCain has some legit accomplishments and has actually done some "work" while a senator, obama has been campaigning almost his entire tenure.
because obama followers continue to compare obama to Palin, just a reminder Palin is the VP nominee, why are they so intent on going after the repubs #2? What is it with obama and his outirght hatred for women?
one last thing, McCain has suspended his campaign twice to go back to work as a senator when necessary, obama's reaction to the hurricanes? "I'll get an email list going"....the economic crisis? "they can call me if they need me"....is that a sign of leadership?
obama is all about me me me, McCain is all about US US US,
last reason- only a hypocrit would choose obama, he hates women (there you go hillary supporters) and is now endorsed by powell (there you go anti-war bush haters), he fli flops on EVERYTHING, and buries simple citizens when asked tough questions, what's next? .... |
| RE, TX |
| 22:42 October 19 |
Cause hes not a Nigger.
Save our land
Join the Klan
kkk.com
WP! |
| Mike D, PA |
| 22:12 October 19 |
Frankly I'm disturbed by most of the responses to this question.
There are a lot of "facts" traveling the airwaves and for every slam on one candidate there is another issue brought up about the other.
Sifting through the crap and finding real meaning in what people do, say and think is going to be difficult for anyone.
Look at the voting records in the Senate, see if the candidate supports the things you care about. It's fairly simple, go here:
Senator Obama
http://www.votesmart.org/votin...
Senator McCain
http://www.votesmart.org/votin...
Look at the record, compare it with policy outlines that are available and see if they match up with what you value.
Listening to the drivel here by people watching ads on TV or making their mind up based on how articulate someone looks in a debate is ridiculous.
Above all else, choose for yourself, don't let people choose for you. .... |
| D. Yaeger, MN |
|
|
JOSH FOUND THIS HELPFUL Very helpful ... thanks. -Josh Gross
|
| 21:48 October 19 |
| As an American citizen, do you really want a known associate of many terrorists in the White House? |
| Rob, GA |
| 21:44 October 19 |
A vote for McCain, because he will die in office, and Saran Palin will be prez. Then she will let Alaska out of union, drill drill drill until there is no more oil or alternative energy sources, hunt deer and elk from helicopters and hire her daughter to teach abstinence to schools. She will dig up the bones of Joe Vogler and bury them in the land of the new dictatorship of the commonwealth of Alaska. Then she will nuke Iran, start Armageddon and pray that the evil liberals die in the
nu-ku-lar fallout, while she and other GOPers go to heaven (after all they are the only ones allowed in right?) |
| Aaron, NV |
| 21:37 October 19 |
| I really like Obama, but he is kind of like a pipe bomb. You think you know what will happen after you light that fuse, but you could be very wrong. |
| Greg, WA |
|
|
Nice analogy, not potent enough. -Josh Gross
|
| 21:37 October 19 |
Assume you’re an owner of a company, for whatever reason you cannot run it, you need to hire somebody to do it for you. You have to options:
Option one: A man with experience, somebody you know well, he has helped your company in the past, made great sacrifices for your company even though he didn’t have to. His loyalty to your company is unquestionable. He has challenged his friends when he thought they were not acting in the best interest of your company.
Option two: A man with no experience whatsoever, somebody untested, who hasn’t accomplished one thing in his life, somebody who associates with people who want to destroy your company, who say that your company is evil.
Make your pick (needless to say that company is your country). .... |
| conservative among libs, WA |
|
|
JOSH FOUND THIS HELPFUL
|
| 21:20 October 19 |
| TITTIES! |
| plumber, KY |
| 21:06 October 19 |
Who cares about McCain. It's all about Sarah Palin. Like John McCain, she fought her own party and won. She grew her little ole town of Wasilla by 4x and cut taxes, creating a revenue unseen by the town before. She fought her party again for the governor's race, and WON. She told big oil to take a hike, the State of Alaska wasn't going to pay to build the refinery, or the pipeline, and receive zero as a result. Instead, big oil now has to build their own refinery, at their cost, as well as the pipeline, and they have to PAY THE CITIZENS of Alaska a percentage of all profits they make.
Additionally, when her state legislature attempted to deny "same sex" partners benefits for health insurance, etc., Sarah Palin VETO'd the ban. Hmmmm... pro life, anti-gay, BUT, BUT, BUT she vetoed her own party's plan to deny them any rights.
I'm voting for Sarah Palin! .... |
| Republican Who Cares, NV |
| 20:58 October 19 |
| www.obamaspast.com |
| Ron, MN |
| 20:56 October 19 |
Because the moral, pro-American man we need to run our country is NOT Osama.....ooops, I mean Obama.
PEOPLE.....WAKE UP!!! |
| Jodi, MN |
| 20:53 October 19 |
| Because Obama lied about voting against FISA. If you care about the 4th amendment & your right to privacy you will not reward that kind of behavior. |
| Angie, NC |
| 18:11 October 19 |
| because you make more than 250,000 a year and you will get tax breaks. |
| tyler, OH |
| 17:35 October 19 |
Josh-You, and/ or the site author should offer recognition or some kind of prize to the person that presents the most helpful, compelling reasoning. If you do, Lance (below) from New York would win hands down so far.
Everyone didn't take the challenge as serious as Lance and some were downright gross and/or ignorant.
I for one am not proud of under-appreiciating the challenge as evidenced by my cavalier response and weak attempt at sollicitating conversion to my side by stereotyping west coast liberals.
Even if you don't agree with Lance's conclusions, you must admit that his logical reasoning is compelling.,
By the way, it is interesting to note that you find about 10% of McCains supporters helpful vs. 6% of Obamas? Does this mean you are leaning to the right more than 40% at this point? .... |
| Old Dude, MI |
|
|
At this point I'm not really leaning in either direction. I'm still trying to weigh the pros/cons of either candidate -Josh Gross
|
| 16:24 October 19 |
Josh,
Remember how you felt on September 11, 2001. If you were angry Good! Hopefully you are still as angry today.
You need to cast your vote for the person you believe will do the most to keep us safe here in the US. The person who believes the war on terror will not be won with victories in Iraq & Afghanistan. The person who knows that the War on terror will need to be his focal point for the next 4 or 8 years.
After all the Presidents primary job is Commander & Chief of the military. Please think about this every election. |
| Evan Baker, OH |
| 13:43 October 19 |
| If you need this site so the masses can think and reason for you...sounds like your and Obama man all the way. Off your azz and do some of your own research or just change your name to Lemming. |
| Dave, IN |
| 12:17 October 19 |
| HAHA! The line is going stright into the elephant's and donkey's asses!! HEHHE HOOO HEEHEE HOO HOO! |
| FuttBucker, AK |
|
|
I hope you're not old enough to vote. -Josh Gross
|
| 12:13 October 19 |
| I'm Canadian so I can't vote but if I could, I'd vote McCain because the Democrats already own congress and the senate. With a democratic president in office, the only checks will be the ones powerful democrats get to write (in the form of pork and corporate handouts) to their biggest and favorite campaign contributors. |
| Rob, MI |
| 12:11 October 19 |
| I am appalled by all the sadistic comments about McCain's imminent death during his term if he were elected. Just exposes the moral corruption and cultish tendencies of the Obama camp. They talk about being pro-life but they are prophesizing about the death of a man who served his country selflessly. |
| Rich M, GA |
| 11:45 October 19 |
| A vote for McCain/Palin would ensure your ability to ask the question. Everyone came to the United States to enjoy Life, Liberty and the Pursuit of Happiness. With Freedom and Justice for All. Not higher taxes and Utopian 'change' that never works out well for the people the 'workers' except for the MORE EQUAL (Look how Joe the Plumbers being vilified and sneered at by BHussein Obama himself,) who get to keep their guns.That's NOT Looking out for the worker, that 'eliteism' and snobbery. And, you would be trated the same way, when you ask,, "who should I vote for?" |
| The Arisocrat, DC |
| 10:16 October 19 |
| cos i said so. |
| dannii, CA |
| 09:57 October 19 |
Obama’s Henchmen and the Rise of Commufascism
by: Shawn D. Akers, October 8, 2008
The secret to selling bad ideas is to make sure they are the only ones available. This is how totalitarian regimes take power. Whether it was Adolf Hitler in Nazi Germany or Vladimir Lenin in Communist Russia, the pattern is largely the same -- totalitarian dictators come to power by enshrining themselves as cults of personality and then creating political monopolies through often less than delicate campaigns of indoctrination and censorship -- especially censorship enshrouded in the intimidating aura of state power. Ironically, these cloven-tongued leaders often rise to dominance by preaching power to those they will dominate, provision to those they will impoverish, and liberty to those they will force into state labor. Whether they claim to be left or right, revolutionary or reactionary, communist or fascist, the result is always the same -- tyranny.
The great discomfort for many Americans as they watch the current presidential contest is that the scent of such totalitarianism hangs heavy in the air; the pattern so familiar in European dictatorships seems eerily present in Barak Obama’s presidential campaign. Senator Obama, obviously intelligent and gifted with enviable powers of communication, has for all of his eloquence, done very little in the real world other than campaign for office. His supporters can not tell you what he has done that qualifies him to run the most powerful nation the world has ever known, but they know he was born for the job -- they were there at the convention; they heard the speech; they felt the magic; chills ran up their legs, and they cried their eyelashes off as Mr. Obama stood tall between the ivory columns of a Greek temple to accept his party’s nomination for President of the United States.
If there was any remaining question of his revolutionary greatness, scattered around the nation are tri-color campaign posters of Mr. Obama, bearing a striking resemblance to the larger than life representations of Lenin, Marx, and Engels used by soviet propagandists in the glory days of Mother Russia. These communist styled knock-offs featuring Mr. Obama staring nobly -- if melodramatically -- into the distance and emblazoned with one-word utopian mantras such as "Change," "Progress," or "Hope," were designed by Shepard Fairey whose obsession with communist propaganda overflows in his "OBEY" brand website which brandishes a Cyrillic-styled banner that reads "Propaganda Engineering" and boasts the company motto "Manufacturing Quality Dissent Since 1989."
The nod to Chomsky notwithstanding, Fairey, like any good propagandist, denies the obvious message of the Obama campaign posters. He claims the art is "patriotic" and prefers to let it speak for itself as it joins his growing portfolio of romanticized communist plagiarisms of such other "patriotic" works as Demitry Moor’s famous 1920 Soviet Red Army recruitment poster Have You Volunteered?, Vladimir Kozlinsky’s 1919 poster Meeting, and the 1968 Chinese Proletarian Cultural Revolution poster Political Power Comes from the Barrel of a Gun. Least the fascists feel slighted, Fairey also produced an exact copy of the Nazi Gestapo "death’s head" logo which he placed on t-shirts and rebranded as a part of his OBEY clothing line.
Whatever else may be said, Mr. Obama’s personality cult campaign has been an unmitigated success, creating, almost ex nihilo, a "beloved leader" out of a largely inexperienced and unknown man, void of business, executive, and foreign policy credentials. This fact alone is cause for substantial concern, but, unfortunately for the American people, what has been true of the form of the Obama campaign is now materializing in its function as individuals cloaked in the appearance of state authority seek to silence dissent and indoctrinate the masses.
The largest portion of the media has progressed in its leftist agenda so overtly in the current presidential race that we are hardly surprised when television news "anchors" swoon at the very mention of Barak Obama while taking every opportunity to belittle Governor Sara Palin, feigning objectivity and savoring superiority all the while. Such private sector propaganda is so common it is almost passé. What is far more troubling is when individuals holding powerful and intimidating public posts -- police officers and prosecutors, individuals who, by the very power of their offices, can strip citizens of their liberty -- use their positions to intimidate anyone who dares speak against Mr. Obama. When Missouri prosecutor Bob McCulloch takes to the air waives, placing the public on notice that he is a member of Mr. Obama’s "truth squad" and that he and other Missouri prosecutors and law enforcement officials plan to "respond immediately" to any critical speech concerning Mr. Obama that "might violate Missouri ethics laws," the message, with all of its implications, is crystal clear -- "speak out against our beloved leader and all the fury of the state will fall on you." Mr. McCulloch has since claimed that he was speaking only in his personal capacity -- a strange assertion considering that he has no personal capacity to "respond...[to] violat[ions] of Missouri ethics laws." Perhaps Mr. McCulloch and the other members of Mr. Obama’s political police could have clarified their role by exchanging their very official looking lawyer’s suits for a selection of Fairey’s Gestapo t-shirts.
The shocking willingness of the Obama campaign to begin using state power, or at least the appearance of state power, to censor dissent even before Mr. Obama holds the actual power he seeks is doubly troubling when combined with actions of other individuals who use their taxpayer funded positions of power to indoctrinate "the masses" in favor of Mr. Obama and against anyone who opposes him. Only weeks ago, Janna Barber had the courage to expose what is apparently all too common in public universities -- professors who are paid with taxpayer funds, using their positions of considerable power and influence to force feed pro-Obama political dogma to their students. Professor Andrew Hallam of Metropolitan State College of Denver, did for the classroom what Shepard Fairey did for political posters. In true Nazi-Reichsführer-school-meets-Communist-Reeducation-Camp style, Hallam brought rabid party fanaticism and inexcusable psychological abuse to bear on his class, demanding that his English students write a searing anti-Palin position paper, requiring the Republican students to self-identify, and then allowing if not encouraging the enlightened, open-minded, diverse, accepting, and politically correct Democratic students to verbally berate and abuse the handful of Republicans with language that would have made Stalin blush.
Whether it is Kent Higgins, a Chaplin at the University of Massachusetts, attempting to use official University action to directly build Obama’s workforce by providing college credit for Obama campaigners, or PBS ensuring that an open ardent Obama supporter whose own success as an author is dependent on Obama’s victory, moderates the Vice Presidential debates, or Virginia public school teachers coordinating an "Obama Blue [shirt] Day" campaign to indoctrinate the young children they have so much influence over with the conviction that Barak Obama is every authority figure’s leader of choice (Obama Jugend?), or Obama’s throngs of attorneys threatening with litigation broadcasters that air unapproved messages, the actions taken together amount to a "forced coordination" -- what the Nazis referred to as Gleichschaltung.
If this is the result of an Obama presidential campaign, one can only shudder to think of the impact of an Obama administration. These are not the ways of a free people. They are the ways of those who do by brute force what they can not do by the force of their ideas. Attempts at tyranny have historically struck a sour note in the collective soul of Americans. There is something written on our hearts that says it is wrong to take property that does not belong to you even if you take it for a "good cause;" it is wrong to kill the innocent even if their existence is inconvenient for you; it is wrong to win a contest by intimidating the judges; and it is the honor of the strong to secure justice for the weak. This may be the most important election in recent American history, and we owe it to ourselves and our children to choose leaders who will not tolerate tyranny much less partake in it.
Shawn D. Akers is the Director of Academic Support and an Adjunct Assistant Professor of Law at Liberty University School of Law. .... |
| Lance, NY |
| 09:09 October 19 |
So, the rapist wasn't selfish? The sick and twisted father, raping his daughter, and impregnating her, wasn't selfish?
Rapists for McCain/Palin!
Free wombs for rapists! '08 |
| Jesus Pete, WY |
| 07:28 October 19 |
| saying that its womans right to choose is basically saying it's a womans right to get away with murder. whats the difference between an abortion and someone who kills their baby or child after they're born? nothing exept the abortion was a hired hand, and somehow not illegal. why is it a woman is so selfish, she can't even carry it to term and give it up for adoption? rape, incest or whatever reason. |
| Anonymous |
| 05:13 October 19 |
because obama is a baby killer and if you don't vote against a baby killer or do anythign to stop it you have blood on your hands. so are you a murderer or not a murderer.
McCain/Palin '08 |
| Suzie |
| 22:43 October 18 |
| John is a fuddy duddy...he doesnt know when to fudge and when to dud, for that fact he doesnt know what time of day it is...so all i can say is John....sit boy sit....beg boy beg....lol |
| Anonymous, SC |
| 21:47 October 18 |
| A woman has a right to do whatever she wants to her own body. There is no law in America that says she can't. But is it right that she can kill the body (the little baby) that is inside her her body? The Baby living inside her body is another human being only attached by any unbilical cord and using her body for protection for nine months. Wake up folks before it's too late. Talk about a holocast right here in a "civilized" society. |
| Susie prolife, OH |
| 17:23 October 18 |
I ask you to think with your brain, and not your heart. Your heart can be used whenever you like. Send money to Africa, send money to some childrens home around your home town. Put your tax dollars that McCain will save you twords what moves you in your heart, and don't trust the government to do it for you. Trusting the government to spend your money is the LAZY mans way of charity.
I understand it is hard to decide when you have a bleeding heart for others, but your common sense tells you better. That 's how I feel about Barack and McCain. Barrack appeals to my bleeding heart and the desire to help all fellow citizens by digging in my pocket and willingly give. Yet I know McCain is the most logical choice because he and his policies encourage people to stand up for themselves and to let government be more localized. I have known people personally that would have and have genuinly benefited from socialized health care and other gov. funded programs,who would have used them wisely, to further themselves and become independent. However, I also know people personally who would abuse and suckle off the teats of government every chance they get with no guilt or feeling of regret, and with no intention of bettering themselves. These are the people I choose not to support . Unfortunatly it may be to the detriment of others, but that's the way it goes.
In addition, think about their plans to protect our country and how each of them plans to succeed. McCain has the track record of incredible loyalty, and has been through the worst of war. Think...do you really think this man "wants" war? No. But he does realize the importance of "winning". If we do not tie off this war in Iraq we will regret it and have to "finish" it sometime. The last thing we want is another dictator there.
Remember, voting McCain doesn't make you less of a caring person for people less fortunate than yourself, it empowers you to go out and make a difference personally! .... |
| LMCN, MI |
|
|
JOSH FOUND THIS HELPFUL Very thoughtful post ... probably not the most popular way to look at things, but I think you make some good points. -Josh Gross
|
| 15:45 October 18 |
Obama is smarter. Obama has a better running mate. Obama has fairer social policies. Obama is more inspirational.
All of that being said, Obama is wrong for the country right now. When the economy is dying, you absolutely cannot raise taxes on any individual or corporation. Businesses need all that money to pay their employees and go ahead with planned expansions to grow the economy. Even Obama supporting investors concede this point.
On Iraq, do not be fooled, both individuals want to get us the hell out of Iraq. And neither individual says that they will put the troops on a plane on January 20th. That means both men know the troops must be removed strategically. For me, I trust the guy who has spent his life working on military issues to handle that exit strategy better than the law professor.
When it comes down to it, the country will be just fine with either of these talented gentleman at the healm. Please disregard the comment of my ignorant fellow mccain support below. Obama's race is NO reason not to vote for him. The fact that he has made it this far is a great testament to our democracy. However, I urge you to not vote for him because his liberal policies are simply not good for our country right now. Thank you for your time. .... |
| Gorb, CA |
| 15:31 October 18 |
| Why would you want to work to pay for the lazy slobs who don't? Look at the Obama column, no one can come up with an intelligent reason why you should vote for Obama. Those are the dumb people you will support with your hard earned tax dollars. |
| Lori, PA |
| 15:21 October 18 |
Josh,
Before you decide, read the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution. The Declaration, while it doesn't have the force of law, lays important groundwork for American democracy. Some salient points: we're all created equal; our rights come from the Creator, not from our government; the purpose of government is to secure our rights; and, government derives just powers from the consent of the governed. These were revolutionary concepts, indeed -- and they're still noble ideas. Throughout our history, men and women have pledged and paid their lives, their fortunes, and their sacred honor to defend them. They're worth keeping in mind as you vote. The Constitution is the supreme law of the land. It's the rule book, if you will. It enumerates the powers of the government and defines further rights that belong to the governed. Those who framed it made provision for its amendment; they intended that it always remain relevant, but it is not a "living document." Read it thoughtfully, and you'll be alarmed at the direction our democracy is taking.
I'm afraid that our choice in this election must be for the lesser of the evils. Both major candidates see government as a provider of solutions for all that ails us, and because of that mindset (which is, unfortunately, shared by the majority of our elected officials, and, even more unfortunately, by vast numbers of voting Americans), neither is likely to point us back toward the kind of limited government envisioned by our Founders, the kind of government that encourages individual responsibility and initiative.
I believe that McCain is the lesser evil primarily because of his understanding of the pernicious effect of taxes on the economy. Every dollar that goes to the government is a dollar that can no longer be productive.
The private sector creates wealth by producing goods and services that people value. The government, on the other hand, can only consume. Every job it "creates" depends on the production of the private sector. The higher the rate of taxation, the more deleterious the effect on the economy. The lower the rate of taxation, the more the production and consumption of goods and services can grow -- and, oddly enough, the greater the revenue to the government. Reagan's tax cuts increased Federal revenues. So did Bush's. Spending (which is controlled by Congress), however, grew faster than revenues, so deficits increased.
A second point in McCain's favor is that he is more conservative than Obama. He's not a conservative, to be sure, but Obama's record is far to the left of McCain's. The next President will probably appoint one or two justices to the Supreme Court. It is likely that, as a liberal, Obama would appoint judges who are more "activist," more willing to freely interpret the Constitution. It's not certain, but likely. McCain is more likely to appoint justices who will interpret the Constitution in a stricter fashion. It's not certain, but more likely. The risks posed by an activist Court are, in my opinion, so great, that I would not give Obama the chance to move it in that direction.
Thirdly (good heavens, I'm beginning to sound like Joe Biden), I give the edge to McCain on understanding the world scene. We're faced with numerous threats to our security -- Islamic terrorism, Russian nationalism, dependence on foreign sources of energy, and China's emerging economy (this one's an opportunity, too). Obama has very little experience in this area, and what he says reveals what seems to me to be a dangerous naivite.
Finally, McCain is right on issues of life. I give him credit here for being a positive good, not the lesser evil. Life is the basic right. It's the first right mentioned in the Declaration. Without the right to life, all other rights are meaningless. When asked when life begins, McCain answered without hesitation, "At conception." Obama, asked the same question in the same forum, replied that answering that particular question was "above my pay grade." If he had answered unequivocally that life begins at natural birth, his answer would at least have been consistent with his record as a staunch supporter of the right to abortion at any stage of pregnancy. But if you don't know when life begins, you have to admit the possibility that it begins at conception. And then you have to admit that abortion might just be the taking of an innocent human life. Waffling gets you in trouble sometimes. Abortion is a great evil. Obama's position is wrong.
There's my two cents' worth. I'm sure none of it surprises you. Thanks for listening. You've always been good at that.
Poop .... |
| Steve, OH |
|
|
JOSH FOUND THIS HELPFUL Incredibly insightful and well-written. A big help.
Thank you. -Josh Gross
|
| 14:50 October 18 |
| I own a small florist and if I have to offer health care to my employees, I will have too shut down. While my business has slowed due to the economy and the election, part of me wants Obama to win for the fact the media will get off of gas prices, bad economy, and anything else the evil republicans are the cause of, but then if I vote for Obama my taxes will increase and with the health care, there went my business and livelihood. That is why I am voting for McCain, I believe some of Obamas Ideals are good, but the media has built him into such a celebrity, I don't think he is as qualified as a former soldier and independent. I just hope that the media will, no matter who wins, try not to doom and gloom America, but a majority of people are not paying attention to the real deal, but overreact and panic. We are a panic nation, and we need someone with experience. Hope this helps... .... |
| Jean, GA |
| 14:21 October 18 |
| MILF 08 - Need I Say More!!! |
| Palinisahotti, OK |
| 14:20 October 18 |
| He's not a nigger |
| brandon, TX |
| 11:26 October 18 |
listen, i dislike sarah palin as much as the next person, but i'm still voting for mccain. obama is an incredible speaker, but there's little substance behind the hype; his policies are going to mire the government further and further in our floundering economy. the truth is that we're facing the potential for massive inflation due to the involvement of the government in the economy already, and further involvement will only compound the issue. we need to get the economy standing back on its own two feet, and that won't be accomplished through increased taxation and an expanded welfare state. it just won't.
in terms of foreign policy, we all know that bush and screwed us nine times over, but mccain is a known moderate with a lot of experience. if he can just keep palin as out of the spotlight as possible, we're going to be just fine.
it's important to look at the candidates themselves, not just the party labels. reacting to mccain or to obama just because they are a democrat or republican isn't how this country is supposed to work. i don't care for republicans, frankly, but i trust mccain. obama, hasn't followed through. he hasn't had the opportunity to follow through. give him four more years in the senate, and then we'll see what he can do. in the meantime, vote mccain. .... |
| isabella, VA |
|
|
JOSH FOUND THIS HELPFUL
|
| 10:54 October 18 |
I'm sick and old. I've had 4 melanomas and am currently experiencing the onset of Alzheimers and dementia, as exhibited with my uncontrollable fits of temper.
I will bomb Iran at first opportunity. |
| McCain has melanoma, NY |
| 10:19 October 18 |
| Because sometimes it's fun to do the wrong thing. |
| Josh, AK |
| 09:26 October 18 |
He wants to stimulate the economy by helping those who will create new jobs. ie: small businesses
He'll do this by keeping taxes low. Osama, I mean Obama, wants to reward the lazy by raising taxes on the small businesses and supposedly give to the "poor". The real effect is to make EVERYBODY POOR. Please look at Cuba!!! The more dependant on the government you are, the more the govenment can controll you!! I love FREEDOM too much to give it away! |
| Natalie, MO |
| 09:18 October 18 |
| McCain is going to steer us away from Socialistic tendencies that Obama is headed toward. He's also safer for the country regarding international affairs and attacks. |
| dave, TN |
| 08:43 October 18 |
| Obama is a talking head. He can't answer a candid question because there is no teleprompter to help. He wants to "Spread the Wealth" (ie solcialism) and cripple the economy in the process. He has no opinion of his own and has failed to vote on issues and bills 264 times!! He has lied about past votes that he feels will make him look bad in the public eye. |
| Renee, WY |
| 08:31 October 18 |
What an odd site this is.
But, I will be voting for McCain. Honestly, Sarah Palin scares the hell out of me, and she's awfully inexperienced, but so is Obama. I would much rather have an inexperienced Vice President than an inexperienced President. |
| Danielle, KS |
| 07:54 October 18 |
I can't believe this is even a choice for some people. I can't believe that anyone would vote for this young, inexperienced man who every week has a new scandal or dubious association ignored by the mainstream media and his flock of sheep. I can't believe how much he preaches socialism and blatantly anti-American ideas, rhetoric, and policy and how many people flock to him.
Dear GOD America PLEASE don't vote for Obama. Can you NOT see him for what he is? |
| Hillary, ME |
| 06:35 October 18 |
| Because if you were making a bunch of money and were financially stable, would you want to have to give it away to someone you didn't know who didn't have a job and 10 kids with different fathers? Share the wealth? I'd like to keep mine, thanks. |
| Angela S, MA |
| 06:34 October 18 |
| he's not a rag head! what more is there? ask ur self do you wanna get on a bus or anything else with a muslum? or one running the country? |
| Anonymous, TX |
| 05:28 October 18 |
| He is the only one |
| Obama, IL |
| 01:03 October 18 |
| As a Cuban man I can say to you that this is a crazy thing. You can not know what this is about because you were not there for it but this man this obama man is saying every thing that Castro used to say. I spent 2 weeks on a boat made of wood and rubber to make it to this country toget away from Cuba. I love my country very much but I could not stay there anymore. this obama speeks just like castro, he talks abvout communism so much that it makes me scared. he likes to talk abotu making the government incontrol of everytihingl. that scares me and scares me so much . please dont vote for him. defeet this man and let the us know that they are still for freedom. |
| Andreas, GA |
| 00:58 October 18 |
I'm a life long democrat and I just had to speak out in favor of McCain. Obama has SOOOO many dubious connections and endorsements. It really scares me. And I thought I was scared of Bush? I am TOTALLY scared of Obama. He's a socialist.. no doubt about that one. He wants to spend more money than we have and socialize healthcare which is a huge mistake and.. I don't know.. he just really seems like Hilter to me. He has youth groups singing songs about him and hes created a presidential seal/logo for himself that's just REALLY creepy.
I know the country wants something other than Bush but really? Is this the best we could do?
I work as a waiter and as a result I hear things and talk to people. I have NEVER in my life heard more democrats saying that they are scared shitless of Obama and will vote Republcan for the first time in their lives just so he doesn't win.
I'm the same way. I'm scared. REALLY truly scared that he'll win. It keeps me up at night to think this man might be my president. I'm 58 years old and have lived through a dozen administrations. I didn't always like or agree with them but I lived through them. And this is honestly the first time I've ever been terrified. I'm a woman and a life long democrat but dear god help me this man scares me. Scares the hell out of me. As a country, I don't think John mccain is the answer to our worries but I'm terrified that Obama will win. millions of people died to stop communism and yet this RED is winning in the polls. I just don't understan it.
I hope and pray that this might help you in your decision Josh. God bless you. .... |
| Mary Giles, GA |
| 23:33 October 17 |
I like how Obama says he's for CHANGE, he wants to CHANGE things, get away from the Washington insiders, make things different, stir things up...
And then goes and picks a VP who has been in office for 35 years. I understand that this was a political move to tag some experience onto his ticket when a major complaint about Obama was that he lacked experience but seriously... don't preach change and a move away from washington insider business as usual and then pick a guy firmly entrenched in the Senate.
Biden himself is apparently not a fan of Obama. Here's some Biden quotes courtesy of the Boston Globe:
Feb. 2007 on Obama's appeal: "I mean, you got the first mainstream African-American who is articulate and bright and clean and a nice-looking guy. I mean that's a storybook, man."
Aug. 2007 on Obama's experience: "I think he can be ready, but right now I don't believe he is. The presidency is not something that lends itself to on-the-job training."
Aug. 2007 on Obama's threat to go into Pakistan after Al Qaeda: "The way to deal with it is not to announce it, it's to do it. . . . The last thing you want to do is telegraph to the folks in Pakistan that we're about to violate . . . their sovereignty."
Aug. 2007 on Obama's pledge to meet with leaders of rogue nations: "Would I make a blanket commitment to meet unconditionally with the leaders of each of those countries within the first year I was president? Absolutely, positively no."
Sept. 2007 on Obama's Iraq plan: "My impression is he thinks that if we leave, somehow the Iraqis are going to have an epiphany. I've seen zero evidence of that."
And here's some more Joe Biden quotes, attributed to various sources as noted:
On McCain:
Biden, on a post-debate appearance on MSNBC, October 30, 2007: “The only guy on the other side who’s qualified is John McCain.”
Biden appearing on The Daily Show, August 2, 2005: “John McCain is a personal friend, a great friend, and I would be honored to run with or against John McCain, because I think the country would be better off, be well off no matter who...”
On Meet the Press, November 27, 2005: “I’ve been calling for more troops for over two years, along with John McCain and others subsequent to my saying that.”
On Obama:
Reacting to an Obama speech on counterterrorism, August 1, 2007: “‘Look, the truth is the four major things he called for, well, hell that’s what I called for,’ Biden said today on MSNBC’s Hardball, echoing comments he made earlier in the day at an event promoting his book at the National Press Club. Biden added, ‘I’m glad he’s talking about these things.’”
Also that day, the Biden campaign issued a release that began, “The Biden for President Campaign today congratulated Sen. Barack Obama for arriving at a number of Sen. Biden’s long-held views on combating al Qaeda in Afghanistan and Pakistan.” That release mocked Obama for asking about the “stunning level of mercury in fish” and asked about a proposal for the U.S. adopt a ban on mercury sales abroad at a Senate Foreign Relations Committee hearing.
Assessing Obama’s Iraq plan on September 13, 2007: “My impression is [Obama] thinks that if we leave, somehow the Iraqis are going to have an epiphany” of peaceful coexistence among warring sects. “I’ve seen zero evidence of that.”
Speaking to the New York Observer: Biden was equally skeptical — albeit in a slightly more backhanded way — about Mr. Obama. “I mean, you got the first mainstream African-American who is articulate and bright and clean and a nice-looking guy,” he said. “I mean, that’s a storybook, man.”
Also from that Observer interview: “But — and the ‘but’ was clearly inevitable — he doubts whether American voters are going to elect ‘a one-term, a guy who has served for four years in the Senate,’ and added: ‘I don’t recall hearing a word from Barack about a plan or a tactic.’”
Around that time, Biden in an interview with the Huffington Post, he assessed Obama and Hillary Clinton: “The more people learn about them (Obama and Hillary) and how they handle the pressure, the more their support will evaporate.”
December 11, 2007: “If Iowans believe campaign funds and celebrity will fix the debacle in Iraq, put the economy on track, and provide health care and education for America’s children, they should support another candidate,” said Biden for President Campaign Manager Luis Navarro. “But I’m confident that Iowans know what I know: our problems will require experience and leadership from Day One. Empty slogans will be no match for proven action on caucus night.”
Also that night, Biden said in a campaign ad, “When this campaign is over, political slogans like ‘experience’ and ‘change’ will mean absolutely nothing. The next president has to act.”
September 26, 2007: Biden for President Campaign Manager Luis Navarro said, “Sen. Obama said he would do everything possible to end the war in Iraq and emphasized the need for a political solution yet he failed to show up to vote for Sen. Biden’s critical amendment to provide a political solution in Iraq.
December 26, 2006: “Frankly, I think I’m more qualified than other candidates, and the issues facing the American public are all in my wheelbarrow.”
On Iraq:
Biden on Meet the Press in 2002, discussing Saddam Hussein: “He’s a long term threat and a short term threat to our national security… “We have no choice but to eliminate the threat. This is a guy who is an extreme danger to the world.”
Biden on Meet the Press in 2002: “Saddam must be dislodged from his weapons or dislodged from power.”
Biden on Meet the Press in 2007, on Hussein’s WMDs: “Well, the point is, it turned out they didn’t, but everyone in the world thought he had them. The weapons inspectors said he had them. He catalogued — they catalogued them. This was not some, some Cheney, you know, pipe dream. This was, in fact, catalogued.”
Biden, on Obama’s Iraq plan in August 2007: “I don’t want [my son] going [to Iraq],” Delaware Sen. Joe Biden said from the campaign trail Wednesday, according to a report on Radio Iowa. “But I tell you what, I don’t want my grandson or my granddaughters going back in 15 years and so how we leave makes a big difference.” Biden criticized Democratic rivals such as Sens. Hillary Rodham Clinton and Barack Obama who have voted against Iraq funding bills to try to pressure President Bush to end the war. “There’s no political point worth my son’s life,” Biden said, according to Radio Iowa. “There’s no political point worth anybody’s life out there. None.”
Biden on Meet the Press, April 29, 2007: “The threat [Saddam Hussein] presented was that, if Saddam was left unfettered, which I said during that period, for the next five years with sanctions lifted and billions of dollars into his coffers, then I believed he had the ability to acquire a tactical nuclear weapon — not by building it, by purchasing it. I also believed he was a threat in that he was — every single solitary U.N. resolution which he agreed to abide by, which was the equivalent of a peace agreement at the United Nations, after he got out of — after we kicked him out of Kuwait, he was violating. Now, the rules of the road either mean something or they don’t. The international community says “We’re going to enforce the sanctions we placed” or not. And what was the international community doing? The international community was weakening. They were pulling away.”
Biden to the Brookings Institution in 2005: “We can call it quits and withdraw from Iraq. I think that would be a gigantic mistake. Or we can set a deadline for pulling out, which I fear will only encourage our enemies to wait us out — equally a mistake.”
Analyzing the surge on Meet the Press, September 9, 2007: “I mean, the truth of the matter is that, that the — America’s — this administration’s policy and the surge are a failure, and that the surge, which was supposed to stop sectarian violence and — long enough to give political reconciliation, there’s been no political reconciliation... The reality is that, although there has been some mild progress on the security front, there is, in fact, no, no real security in Baghdad and/or in Anbar province, where I was, dealing with the most serious problem, sectarian violence. Sectarian violence is as strong and as solid and as serious a problem as it was before the surge started.”
Biden in October of 2002: “We must be clear with the American people that we are committing to Iraq for the long haul; not just the day after, but the decade after.”
On Meet the Press, January 7, 2007, assessing the proposal of a surge of troops to Iraq: “If he surges another 20, 30, or whatever number he’s going to, into Baghdad, it’ll be a tragic mistake, in my view, but, as a practical matter, there’s no way to say, ‘Mr. President, stop.’”
On Meet the Press, November 27, 2005: “Unless we fundamentally change the rotation dates and fundamentally change how many members of the National Guard we’re calling up, it’ll be virtually impossible to maintain 150,000 folks this year.” (The number of troops in Iraq peaked at 162,000 in August 2007, during the surge.) .... |
| Dave D, NY |
| 23:02 October 17 |
This isn't so much a why McCain as much as it is a why not Obama?
No one has made race more an issue in this election than Obama has. Race need not be important, especially in today's society, yet the Obama campaign repeatedly sings his praises as possibly being the first black president. If anyone decides they don't want to vote for Obama, why, it must be because he's a black man and the voter is racist! Surely there can be no other reasons! (Note - this is sarcasm)
Moreover, even though the media has blown Obama's ties out of proportion, the fact remains that he seems to have several dubious connections with people that are so far from presidential it's scary - Ayres, Rev. Wright, ACORN, and of course let's not forget Michelle's slip of the tongue that she's only proud of America because Obama was nominated!
Then there's all the complaints Obama has about negative campaigning. I'm not sure where you live, but the ads I see are equally negative on both sides and always have been. It worries me that Obama can't take the heat. What is he going to do when some country threatens us or some Senator disagrees with him if he becomes president? He can't go cry about it and claim foul play each time his position might be remotely threatened or disagreed upon.
Finally, and I think this is most important - what the candidates say on things like the economy, the environment, taxes, etc simply do not matter. The president cannot make law - he can only veto. It is the Senate and the House that pass all the bills. The president can't do anything unless he has a majority of the Congress to push his ideas through to law!
When it comes right down to it, there are simply too many question marks and reservations about Obama for me to feel comfortable voting for him.
I hope this has helped you a bit! .... |
| Calliope, PA |
| 23:00 October 17 |
If you enjoy being able to defend yourself then you need to vote McCain. I'm not necessarily a strong supporter of McCain, but he is the lesser of two evils.
Obama has voted against every pro 2nd amendment action that he has ever been presented with. He doesn't want anyone to have firearms. SCOTUS recently decided on Heller Vs. District of Columbia stating that firearm ownership is an individual right. Technically, Obama can't outlaw guns, but he's proposed a 500% tax hike on ammunition.
If you enjoy firearms, then a vote for Obama would be like a chicken voting for Colonel Sanders.
Off the firearms topic and on to his finance plans. If the U.S. was to implement all of the different financial plans that he has suggested, the country will be bankrupt in 5 years.
If you truly want to keep your freedom, then vote McCain. .... |
| John, TX |
| 22:54 October 17 |
| Obama may not DIRECTLY raise taxes at first (although there have been compelling arguments for his spending plans and healthcare plans that would seem that he would have to raise taxes), but he has openly said that he would let the Bush tax cuts expire which would effectively raise taxes on a lot of Americans and not just those make 250K or more. So it's raising taxes by NOT keeping the existing tax cuts. Clever |
| Rich, CT |
| 22:16 October 17 |
| Currently going for my MBA at Binghamton. One of my classes had a discussion following the last debate (Political Science class) and our Professor told us that to socialize the American Healthcare system would require everyones taxes to increase by 25-30%. Not sure where he's getting that precise number from but he's an exceptionally smart man and I trust his knowledge. He hates the healthcare system America has right now but contends that an increase of that size would not be in his (or the country's) best interest. |
| Mark, NY |
| 22:12 October 17 |
| Obama's arrogance scares me. The man created his own symbol that he puts on his plane and podium, he has a youth group that's singing his praises (ala Hitler Nazi youth). I haven't seen anything remotely like that since Adolf Hitler. Not that Obama is necceserily as bad as Hitler but he's sure ACTING like him. |
| Peter, LA |
| 22:01 October 17 |
The nation is in shambles...
The previous administration has led the country into an unnecessary war...
The economy is failing, and the sense of a depression fills the air...
A new leader has emerged...
He is a powerful speaker, offering hope, a fix to the economy, and a promise of change...
Raised in another country by a doting mother, he authors two books about his experiences...
His literary work propels his success...
He fills stadiums to capacity with roaring crowds; some faint in his presence...
He is an open christian, with some muslim friends...
He calls for unity and considers himself an advocate of peace....
He operates his campaign on a belief that he who owns the youth vote will 'gain the future...
Some of his political opponents cast him as naive and inexperienced...
And although he has had many radical ties, the media, and the voters, are willing to overlook these things...
Q: Who is he?
.....
......
.......
........
.........
..........
A: Adolf Hitler .... |
| Tyrone, NY |
|
|
Thanks. -Josh Gross
|
| 21:17 October 17 |
Unfortunately, I think politicians of any race and any party will say (and have been doing so for quite some time now) ANYTHING to get elected... -Josh Gross
I don't disagree, however, Obama and his campaign have taken this to the hilt ( just check his changes on issue after issue..)
Also, his campaign tries to silence critics...
http://michellemalkin.com/2008...
http://michellemalkin.com/2008... |
| Visigoth, NY |
|
|
Thanks for the links -Josh Gross
|
| 20:54 October 17 |
It boils down to this : People want change.., so much so, that they aren't even bothering to properly look at Obama and what he's about. They want change, just for the sake of change - the country be damned.
Obama is a SOCIALIST. Our country is a Democratic Republic. Socialism has a long history of.... - FAILURE.
Answer me this.., Who am I...::
Universal healthcare
Wealth distribution
Civic/ volunteer youth initiatives
Free education
Government programs for any and all problems
answer : The Union of Soviet Socialist Republics
Note the second S - SOCIALIST - and we all know what happened there.
Another question to be asked regarding Obama's tax plan..:
The Bush tax cuts ( our present tax rates ) will expire soon. Now, will Obama cut taxes BEFORE our current tax rates expire..., or AFTER ( which is not cutting taxes at all, but leaving them where they are now..- i.e. What McCain proposes..)
It's a slick way of saying you wil cut taxes, when in truth, he will not.
Also, paint it what you will, but, minorities are for Obama because of his
ethnicity, plain and simple.
Obama also understand that he can garner a footnote in history, thus
his blind ambition and willingness to say and promise ANYTHING to get
elected.
( however if it happens, there will be an asterix * as he is mulatto, not 100% ) .... |
| Visigoth, NY |
|
|
Unfortunately, I think politicians of any race and any party will say (and have been doing so for quite some time now) ANYTHING to get elected... -Josh Gross
|
| 20:17 October 17 |
| Because Obama has proven himself a liar, time and time again. |
| Emily, VA |
|
|
JOSH FOUND THIS UNHELPFUL Can you be more specific? Have any links or examples? -Josh Gross
|
| 19:59 October 17 |
| Because the faster this country dies, the faster a new empire will rise. |
| New Emperor, NJ |
| 19:38 October 17 |
Because unlike
<----That one. McCain doesn't contradict everything he says, and How can you trust Obama to do anything for this country in the future, if he hasn't done anything up to this point? |
| Sarah Palin, AL |
| 19:15 October 17 |
| If you haven't decided yet - you probably shouldn't vote. |
| Anonymous |
|
|
JOSH FOUND THIS UNHELPFUL You are clever ... you've posted the same thing in both columns! Congrats. -Josh Gross
|
| 19:12 October 17 |
| He's more experienced, and more traditional. He's just overall the best candidate. He's a veteran. He cares about the country. Obama just isn't right for our country right now. I don't think our country is ready for him. |
| Mellissa, MI |
| 18:52 October 17 |
McCain at least tells it like it is on things like health care, Social Security etc. It is somewhat amusing to read so many posts on the Obama side stating what Obama will do with no mention of where the money will come from. Do some research to check out the financials of our country.
National health care will further break the bank. The Medicaid drug benefit is unsustainable. Just look up the costs. Also note that in Great Britain people are leaving the National Health System and buying private insurance since the NHS does not work. In Canada you do not have the option of buying your way into the sysytem, no matter how dire your circumstances may be. You cannot buy a CAT scan for yourself but you can buy one for your dog. In the US everyone can get treatment with or without insurance.
The market trumps socialism every time. Obama supporters: tell us one instance of a socialist nation that is successful and prosperous. It would also be a good idea to read our Constitution. You will find that most of what Obama wants to do is unconstitutional and McCain leans that way to a lesser degree. .... |
| Noita Pitsnoc on Citadel, OH |
|
|
JOSH FOUND THIS HELPFUL
|
| 18:49 October 17 |
Barack Obama's top three financial advisors were all higher ups in Fannie Mae. They couldn't even keep there own companies out of the red, how are they going to fix the crisis in our country that THEY started?
Also, the US was built on capitalism, going to a socialist market would bring more problems than it could ever solve. |
| Chelly, MS |
| 18:46 October 17 |
Barack Obama is not legally a U.S. Natural-born citizen according to the law on the books at the time of his birth, which falls between “December 24, 1952 to November 13, 1986? . Presidential office requires a natural-born citizen if the child was not born to two U.S. Citizen parents, which of course is what exempts John McCain though he was born in the Panama Canal. US Law very clearly stipulates: “…If only one parent was a U.S. Citizen at the time of your birth, that parent must have resided in the United States for at least ten years, at least five of which had to be after the age of 16.” Barack Obama’s father was not a U.S. Citizen and Obama’s mother was only 18 when Obama was born, which means though she had been a U.S. Citizen for 10 years, (or citizen perhaps because of Hawai’i being a territory) the mother fails the test for being so for at least 5 years **prior to** Barack Obama’s birth, but *after* age 16. It doesn’t matter *after* . In essence, she was not old enough to qualify her son for automatic U.S. Citizenship. At most, there were only 2 years elapsed since his mother turned 16 at the time of Barack Obama’s birth when she was 18 in Hawai’i. His mother would have needed to have been 16+5= 21 years old, at the time of Barack Obama’s birth for him to have been a natural-born citizen. As aformentioned, she was a young college student at the time and was not. Barack Obama was already 3 years old at that time his mother would have needed to have waited to have him as the only U.S. Cizen parent. Obama instead should have been naturalized, but even then, that would still disqualify him from holding the office.
*** Naturalized citizens are ineligible to hold the office of President. *** Though Barack Obama was sent back to Hawaii at age 10, all the other info does not matter because his mother is the one who needed to have been a U.S. Citzen for 10 years prior to his birth on August 4, 1961, with 5 of those years being after age 16. Further, Obama may have had to have remained in the country for some time to protect any citizenship he would have had, rather than living in Indonesia. Now you can see why Obama’s aides stopped his speech about how we technically have more than 50 states, because it would have led to this discovery. This is very clear cut and a blaring violation of U.S. Election law. I think the Gov. Of California would be very insterested in knowing this if Obama were elected President without being a natural-born U.S. Citizen, and it would set precedence. .... |
| Dan, NV |
| 18:34 October 17 |
Barak HUSSEIN Obama
gets a buttload af campain contributions from the middle east...... |
| Independent American, NV |
| 18:14 October 17 |
| because Barack Obama is all about "change," but can't specify what that change is. |
| hannah, VA |
| 18:10 October 17 |
| U CANT TRUST OBAMA !! |
| ROUL, FL |
| 17:51 October 17 |
| Neither. Ron Paul 08! |
| Ron, TX |
| 17:34 October 17 |
| Because osama is a fuckin nigger!!! |
| whitey, TX |
| 16:43 October 17 |
Okay, so if Obama wins, my father (makes $250,000) works extremely hard for money for me to go to college and money for the rest of my family. With Obama's plan, my father's income is basically given to the lazy hobos on the street who don't do shit. My Dad has to drive from Miami to Orlando each week so he can keep his job and I don't see him during the week! Now is that fair? Oh! Lets just tax the hard working people in America so we can give more money to drug dealers, SUPER!
But, either way, the country is fucked... |
| Common Sense, FL |
| 16:06 October 17 |
| Do you want a doctor that has only been working 1 year+ to surgically remove a tumor from your brain or would you rather have a surgeon with 40+ years experience do it? Exactly. Vote for Mc Cain, he ISNT Bush, he's Mc Cain and I know he'll turn things around once he's in office, completely dumbfounding the religious right that he had to bow down to. Plus I think Obama will make a rockin' Mayor in Anchorage, Alaska eh? |
| Katherine, TN |
| 15:26 October 17 |
| OH YEAH BRUV FUCKIN LOVIN IT |
| HAVN SEX WIF YA MUVA, GA |
| 15:20 October 17 |
| it's about experience... I mean don't you have to vote for the guy who is older than the golden gate bridge? |
| jason, NY |
| 15:19 October 17 |
Hey,
My dad owns a small business and if taxes were to increase for him and if he were to be required to offer healthcare, he would not be able to grow as a business because he couldn't hire any more people... It's his American Dream to run a business, but he can only do it if he's not subjected to ridiculous taxation from the federal government.
Thanks |
| Katie, NC |
|
|
JOSH FOUND THIS HELPFUL
|
| 15:14 October 17 |
Frig?
They must only make those in Canada. |
| re: adam |
| 15:13 October 17 |
Wow, Jody Maus is almost as dumb as you Josh.
Put that on your frig. |
| Adam from Canada |
| 15:05 October 17 |
| Tad, FYI honey, trickle down economics doesn't work, which is what you're describing. Helping only one group of people in this economy is something an idiot would say. Please read something. Thank you. |
| Babs, CA |
| 15:04 October 17 |
| b/c ugly people vote republican |
| mari, NY |
| 14:59 October 17 |
| Vote McCain because you clearly have no principles and have to be told what to do (if you truly are undecided at this point.) |
| Alex Brunk |
| 14:52 October 17 |
| MCain Killed My Uncle too...but he was an asshole so thanks for that |
| Jon, NY |
| 14:46 October 17 |
| Obama wants to tax anyone who makes $250,000 or more a year. These people should not be taxed any more than they already are because they are the people who will turn the economy around. The economy is in the crapper right now and the people who have the money to invest and actually turn things around are the people in this $250,000 income bracket. In addition to this discouraging people from investing who's to say a couple years later that Obama decides that people who make over $200,000 a year should be taxed? Or $150,000? If the bar gets lowered the people who will be hurt the most are small business owners and that will reduce the number of jobs. |
| Tad, AZ |
|
|
JOSH FOUND THIS HELPFUL
|
| 14:37 October 17 |
| He actually has experience in politics and government. He can also articulate his beliefs and plans for the country, rather than avoiding questions. McCain's plans are legitimate and do-able, and he genuinely means what he says. He isn't just making empty promises about some vague concept of "change" - he has concrete plans. Also, he believes in America and what it stands for and is committed to that and to us as Americans. |
| Kate, SC |
| 14:36 October 17 |
| Vote McCain becuase he'll make plumber ass-cracks bigger and larger with his tax plans. |
| Sydney McCain, AZ |
| 14:35 October 17 |
| I say vote for McCain because tons of people on his side use caps lock. Therefore what they are saying MUST BE RIGHT! |
| Come ON |
| 14:35 October 17 |
| DUH! U vote for McCain bcause he's white. |
| Ashley, KY |
| 14:29 October 17 |
CHANGE??????
>
>
> TO ALL MY FRIENDS....LIBERAL OR CONSERVATIVE...FYI only.
>
> George Bush has been in office for 7 1/2 years. The first six
> the economy was fine.
>
>
> A little over one year ago:
>
> 1) Consumer confidence stood at a 2 1/2 year high;
>
> 2) Regular gasoline sold for $2.19 a gallon;
>
> 3) the unemployment rate was 4.5%.
>
> 4) the DOW JONES hit a record high--14,000 +
>
> 5) American's were buying new cars,taking cruises,
> vacations overseas, living large!...
>
> But American's wanted 'CHANGE'! So, in 2006 they voted in a
> Democratic Congress and yes--we got 'CHANGE' all right. In the
> PAST YEAR:
>
> 1) consumer confidence has plummeted ;
>
> 2) Gasoline is now over $4 a gallon & climbing!;
>
> 3)Unemployment is up to 5.5% (a 10% increase);
>
> 4)Americans have seen their home equity drop by $12
> TRILLION DOLLARS and prices still dropping;
>
> 5)1% of American homes are in foreclosure.
>
> 6)as I write, THE DOW is probing another low~~
>
>
> $2.5 TRILLION DOLLARS HAS EVAPORATED FROM THEIR STOCKS, BONDS &
> MUTUAL FUNDS INVESTMENT PORTFOLIOS!
>
>
> YES, IN 2006 AMERICA VOTED FOR CHANGE...AND WE SURE GOT IT! .....
>
> REMEMBER THE PRESIDENT HAS NO CONTROL OVER ANY OF THESE ISSUES,
> ONLY CONGRESS. [ REMEMBER THIS LINE]
>
> AND WHAT HAS CONGRESS DONE IN THE LAST TWO YEARS? ABSOLUTELY
> NOTHING! NADA, ZERO, ZILCH.....
>
> NOW THE DEMOCRATIC CANDIDATE FOR PRESIDENT CLAIMS HE IS GOING TO
> REALLY GIVE US CHANGE ALONG WITH A DEMOCRATIC CONGRESS!!!!
>
>
> JUST HOW MUCH MORE 'CHANGE' DO YOU THINK YOU CAN STAND?
>
> PLEASE PRINT THIS LETTER FOR FUTURE REFERENCE.
>
> PUT IT ON YOUR FRIG AND
>
> THINK BEFORE YOU VOTE ON
>
> NOV. 4th!!!!!!!!!!!
I think there is only one way we can vote!! McCain .... |
| Jody Maus, OH |
|
|
JOSH FOUND THIS HELPFUL
|
| 14:25 October 17 |
Neil -
Get off your computer and come down for dinner RIGHT NOW!!! If I have to ask you to come down to dinner via blogpost one more time, I am taking away all your cyborg ninja GI Joe toys for two weeks. And wash those filthy hands!!! I know you've been playing with yourself again; I can hear you from the kitchen. And don't forget to put those magazines back in Dad's underwear drawer; you know he doesn't like it when you leave the pages stuck together. |
| Neil C.'s cyborg mom, DC |
| 14:25 October 17 |
| Seriously? What the hell is wrong with you. Could you make a more obvious ploy to try and be "famous". At least Obama Girl actually lip synched her song. |
| Alan, NC |
| 14:23 October 17 |
Isn't Obama an ARAB?
Sorry but in these times those kind of people just cen't be trusted at the top. |
| Joe, LA |
| 14:15 October 17 |
| In light of the posts below, I am even more for McCain because it appears that Obama supporters have cloned me, against my permission. And while clones are cool (even cooler than impersonating people on blogs), I think we can all agree that Cyborgs are way cooler. They're half-man, half-machine! And Metal! And Electricity! Vote McCain, because Clones are just more of the same. |
| The real Neil C., DC |
| 14:14 October 17 |
No one should decide how to vote based on 150 words. If your personal philosophy draws you to that of Obama, you should vote for him. Likewise for McCain.
These are both great candidates and America is fortunate to be in this position. The country will be in good shape regardless of which candidate wins, despite the hyperbole.
I personally am voting for McCain, both because I find myself more drawn to his philosophy and because I would like to ensure balance to the otherwise Democrat-dominated government. |
| John K, VA |
|
|
It's nice to hear some bipartisan optimism. -Josh Gross
|
| 14:13 October 17 |
| WALNUTS! |
| Joe Buck, DC |
| 14:11 October 17 |
The economy is in bad shape right now, and I understand how people would be weary of another republican as president. McCain is not completely in line with Bush in this area though and the Obama tax increases will not fix this. When the business owners get taxed more they lose money. To prevent losing too much money you increase demands on labor and cut back on employment. The rich got that way for a reason, and will not just sit back and give away their money so that someone who doesn't work can get a tax break.
Even though the Economy is in bad shape at the moment, a more pressing issue in the long run is the war. McCain has Obama when it comes to expertise in foreign affairs. This is a statement of fact - not opinion. The question is when to leave, and I would listen to a military man with a political career spanning the last 26 years over a newcomer to the senate any day.
In my opinion, this race should be determined by foreign policy rather than the recent domestic issues, but either way it's advantage McCain .... |
| Braden, TX |
| 14:05 October 17 |
| That's right Sarah from CA!!! At least McCain was born within U.S. "boarders!!" Oh wait...what?...he wasn't? Panama? I thought that was within our "boarders." |
| Christian, IN |
| 14:00 October 17 |
| He is the stronger, more qualified candidate. Plus, Obama still hasn't given proof that he was in fact born within the United States boarders. |
| Sarah, CA |
| 13:56 October 17 |
| I am voting McCain because I think the innovative small businesses that run my favorite child porn sites should pay less taxes, so that my subscription fees will be less. |
| Neil C., DC |
| 13:52 October 17 |
| Nahmeen NAILED IT! Who has more incentive to invest in bionic research? A young lithe athlete like Obama? Or an old man who could probably stand to replace a few parts? Vote for a bionic future - VOTE McCAIN! |
| Neil C., DC |
| 13:50 October 17 |
I believe that if you work hard that you shouldn't be penalized. My dad has spent the last 30 years working to support our family - he sent all four of his daughters through college, he supported his parents when they were unable to. He has never been in debt. Taking away what he has worked for in order to support people who are irresonsible seems wrong.
Let's focus on reigning in government spending. |
| Elizabeth, PA |
| 13:47 October 17 |
| Neil C from DC is totally on-point. "John McCain would work to give you the abilities and opportunities to forge your own future. " That's right Josh!! John McCain would make sure there is a spending freeze on every government program except one to discover the technology to bionically fuse forging equipment and laserbeam rays to your body so you can literally have the ability "to forge your own future." A vote for McCain is a vote for bionic future-forging abilities. |
| Nahmeen, DC |
| 13:42 October 17 |
If you are guy who believes in compromise and moderation, you need to vote for McCain. With a strongly democratic congress, an Obama presidency will mean no moderation, because a single party will control both Congress and the White House. Look how that worked out with Bush until 2006 - a balance of power is critical.
That's not to say a McCain presidency would simply be a four year stalemate. McCain has actual experience working with people of the other party, and taking on his own party when necessary. He has built cross-isle coalition on difficult issues such as judicial confirmations. In contrast, Obama has never disagreed with the leadership of his own party on in any issue.
Philosophically, John McCain believes in limited government and opposes Obama's huge expansion of government. He also believes real change comes from individuals, not government programs. As president, John McCain would work to give you the abilities and opportunities to forge your own future. .... |
| Neil C., DC |
| 13:36 October 17 |
| Obama voted against the sun. McCain voted for it. If Obama is elected, he would stop funding for the sun and use all that money for ACORNS for squirrels. Then without the sun, those acorn-fattened squirrels would turn into zombies. And then we would really be in trouble. |
| Steve, CO |
| 13:31 October 17 |
| I heard that if he's elected, Obama is going to abolish the legislature and have all laws written by William Ayers. I also heard Obama wants to force everyone to have an abortion, just so everyone can see what it's like. Sarah Palin told me that he frequently goes on double dates with terrorists. Then I heard that if he's President he'll make gay marriage mandatory. But worst of all, someone told me that he HATES Two and a Half Men. And that, my friends, is just un-American. |
| Charlie, MA |
| 13:30 October 17 |
| I agree with V from FL, who posted recently. Obama would not qualify to be a bodyguard or FBI agent. However, he would not qualify because he is actually an undercover alien spy from the planet Bonkroodeaon-527. Also, I heard McCain gives reach-arounds. |
| Craig Dingle, CT |
| 13:26 October 17 |
It is true that Obama is a new face and is so pleasant, but that is all he is. He knows how to please people and says things that can appeal to everyone! But he can't make any decisions! He has voted "present" for countless issues rather than making a decision and losing support from those who would not agree with that decision. I want a DECISIVE president. In my opinion, obama is just saying what he needs to in order to get enough votes to get into the white house...and then who knows what his decision are gonna be? I don't necessarily like McCain either, but at least I know what he stands for, and he DOES also understand we need change. It's just not his "slogan" because then he'd be a copycat. And he's not gonna die in the next 4 years so Palin will never be our president (bc yes that would be scary)
Another scary thought:
If Barack Obama would apply for a job with the FBI or with the Secret Service, he would be disqualified because of his past association with William Ayers, a known terrorist.
If he is elected President he would not qualify to be his own body guard! .... |
| V, FL |
| 13:20 October 17 |
| Obama is so aroggent that he created his own flag that he hangs up behind up him, next to the American flag, when he gives speeches in Ohio. Look for yourself - http://michellemalkin.cachefly... |
| George W., DC |
| 13:13 October 17 |
| He has a bigger penis. |
| Joe the Plumber, PA |
| 13:11 October 17 |
| As a woman, I'm not smart enough to decide how to plan my family -- so I'm voting for John McCain. John McCain will make sure I have no reproductive rights, including if my "health" is at stake. Also, John McCain did not support the Equal Pay Act, which would have given victims of pay discrimination greater opportunity to recover from employers. I don't deserve equal pay, and I certainly don't deserve recourse if I have been discriminated against! Josh, vote for John McCain so I don't have to make decisions about my body or get the same pay as a man. Let me be barefoot and pregnant, like God wanted. |
| Ann C., NC |
| 13:11 October 17 |
ummm. lots of racists over here.
are you people serious? or just really, really ignorant? |
| sloop, GA |
| 13:05 October 17 |
| Becaus McCain in white! Do you really want a black president? |
| Kim, AL |
| 13:03 October 17 |
| All the bigots are voting for him. Oh, and I heard Obama doesn't hate Muslims; so logically, he must hate America. And my grandma told me she got an e-mail that proves Obama is the result of joint Russian-Venezuelan-Al Qaeda 1950s research projects that created a robot baby to one day grow to become the United States President and give all our money to people poorer than John and Cindy McCain. I mean the reason he went to Indonesia was because his robotic technology needed repairs and upgrades. And the reason he does not go south of the border is because spicy foods and the magnetic pull of the southern hemisphere make him implode. I also heard Senator Obama is . . . .black. |
| George W., DC |
|
|
JOSH FOUND THIS UNHELPFUL Hilarious.
But not helpful. -Josh Gross
|
| 13:02 October 17 |
| Obama wants to redistribute the wealth? what kind of socialist crap is that? oh yes, appeal to the poor idiots that comprise most of this country by telling them that you'll punish the financially successful to feed their lazy asses. Obama has NO leadership/executive experience and wants to lead the country? Even Palin has more executive experience than Obama. |
| Pablo, FL |
| 12:53 October 17 |
| If you stand on any morale values, then you must vote for McCain. There is such a strong imorality in our country that everything is out of wack. This country was gounded on conservative morals, and when that is right, then everything will fall into place. I think if you believe in any rights for babies that survive an attmept on their life then there is only one wat to go. I think when McCain gets voted in, you will see that he is nothing like Bush..... |
| Teresa, WY |
| 12:50 October 17 |
| I do not want to live in a socialist society. Also I vote for someone based on their character - although McCain is known for his temper, he is also a true American. Obama has WAY to many question marks for me. I am voting for the lessser of 2 evils and I know that might not sound very positive but its the truth! |
| Jam, TX |
| 12:39 October 17 |
| Going off what a poster said on the Obama side, about letting woman choose....Mccain is anti abortion yes, but Obama is anti long term abortion. This means that he agrees with a mother carrying a baby to near full term where if the baby was born it would be alive and in more cases then not survive giving the mother drugs to induce labor then letting that baby lay in a room by its self till it dies. I think that while abortion done in the first 3 months is a choice for some people abortion after that is murder and should be concidered illegal. All though there are many more reasons I am not voting for Obama this one is one of the mains ones. |
| Tricia, AK |
| 12:37 October 17 |
| Look at his tongue? Isn't that hot? Wouldn't you want Sarah Palin as VP too, think of all the intel she could get while foreign policy makers are staring down her shirt? |
| danco, CA |
| 12:37 October 17 |
| ahem, *lose. |
| moneyries, NY |
| 12:34 October 17 |
I don't want vapid celebrities to think for a second that we care what they think. Ask one of them wearing a trendy Obama shirt their thoughts on his tax policy or health care.....you'll get nothing.
McCain may not be "cool"...but he's definitely the lesser of two evils in this case. |
| G, TX |
| 12:34 October 17 |
| ahem, *lose. |
| moneyries, NY |
| 12:33 October 17 |
| You'll lost LOTS of money, lose your employee-sponsored healthcare, and live in a country that's totally despised by the rest of the world, for another four years. |
| moneyries, NY |
| 12:29 October 17 |
| youre a turd |
| jonah, OH |
| 12:02 October 17 |
It is actually a "no brainer". McCain is a long way from the ideal candidate. However, he is much more in line with the founding principles (Declaration of Independence, Constitution etc.) of our country. For example: Senator Obama believes in greatly expanding the Federal Government's role in health care (and about everything else). Sounds good but it doesn't work.
All one has to do is to take a look at Medicare and Medicaid. Throw in Social Security and those three programs have unfunded (money from future tax revenues) liabilities in the trillions. Yes, they are going and absolutely will go broke. When they do the cost will be devastating, especially to the poor. Obama also does not believe in any "privatization" of Social Security. Your Social Security taxes do not get set aside for your retirment. The law, as written in the '30's, sends that money to the general revenue fund. The poor who pay no federal income taxes do "contribute" 12.4% (their employer matches their contribution of 6.2%). By law and by two Supreme Court decisions no citizen has any right to any money "contributed" to Social Security. In other words, you do not own your retirement.That is especially devastating to the poor and to black males. Statistically, black males die before being able to collect one dime of what they paid into the system. Their contribution goes up in smoke; can't leave the money to their wife or kids or even their favorite charity. We could write page after page about how the expansion of our Federal Government has ripped off the poor but that's for another time and venue. Remember, there is no "free lunch".
However, the absolute topper is the right to life. Obama is a radical supporter of all forms of abortion while McCain is very pro-life. My position is based on faith and reason. However, just a look at a few statistics will startle most Americans: 34% of abortions in the US are performed on 11% of the population: African Americans. Margaret Sanger, the "founder" of the modern abortion and "reproductive rights" movement was a believer in eugenics. Her idea was to eliminate the poor (and especially black people) as they consumed too many resources. Since1973 over 50 million unborn have been killed in the womb. About 25 million have been aborted since 1991. Those 25 million people would be taxpayers, consumers, moms, dads etc. Yep, most moral truths have very practical benefits.
McCain has many faults but he is an easy choice. Josh, if you want to see the US go in the direction of Continental Europe (it's crashing and burning, by the way) vote for Obama who is a socialist. If you want to give our country a fighting chance to become that beacon on a hill, vote for McCain. He is not the best one to turn it around but he will start to turn the rudder in the right direction. Obama will head us toward or maybe even over the cliff.
You know me: I am the 62 year old who can still throw a football! .... |
| charlie.gross@rispaper.com, OH |
|
|
JOSH FOUND THIS HELPFUL
|
| 11:42 October 17 |
He RAWKs.
GO NASCAR!
YEAAAahhhh |
| Dale, WY |
| 11:13 October 17 |
| if you are going to state what you did "Bertha" let's see some facts to back it up. Seems difficult to accept as truth without any facts coupled with the inability to spell. |
| jlb, WA |
| 11:04 October 17 |
| Trust obama is a trader, lier, and a muslum why would you want this trash |
| bertha, TX |
| 11:03 October 17 |
| I really don't like either of them to be honest w/ya Josh. These guys seem like career politicians that are going to say what they need to in order to get into office then will more than likely turn their back on what they told us they were going to do. With that said, I think McCain has been dedicated to this country for a very long time and he's shown that. Obama seems to speak very well, but his words lack substance. He's one of those guys who could talk for an hour and say maybe a minutes worth of relevant material. Now I'm not saying McCain is any better, but I honestly think that as far as character goes that McCain has more of it. |
| Ryan, TX |
| 10:59 October 17 |
| I have two things to say in response to Anonymous in CA. First, Clinton was not the great financial president people think: his policies lead to the first recession that the Bush tax cuts lead us out of (which btw, Obama will let expire, which is a tax increase). Second, to see what effect the Clinton/Obama tax policies have, all you need to do is look at the state from which Anonymous wrote in. The governor of California is asking for billions from the federal government because his state's deficits are enormous. Businesses register as Nevada-based to avoid large portions of California taxes, driving hte state into bankruptcy. If you want businesses and jobs leaving the US at an even greater pace, go with higher capital gains and business profit taxes- you'll drive them out in droves. .... |
| Lee, NV |
| 10:59 October 17 |
Dear Josh,
My younger, not nearly as good looking, impressionable cousin, please do not vote for McCain. Please do not vote for Obama. Please write in Ron Paul.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v...
Thank you. |
| Nathan Gross, OH |
|
|
JOSH FOUND THIS HELPFUL Thanks for the link. -Josh Gross
|
| 10:41 October 17 |
| redistribution of wealth from the other side. While I don't consider Obama a terrorist, his coziness with that faction concerns me. No I don't believe we will be a terrorist state, but I do believe he won't put the effort into destroying terrroism that McCain would. I also think that under Obama we would have a weaker military, Health care is cerainly an issue, but a place that the government should stay out of. I work for state govt, and at one our state govt tried to run our health insurance, let's just say that is not the governments strong suit. |
| chad, WY |
| 08:51 October 17 |
It's not that I dislike Obama or even think that he may not do a good job. It is the fact that he wants to take the country down the road of SOCIALISM.
take from the wealthy - give to the poor
This is redistribution of wealth and class warfare. Think, if you worked hard, do you want the government to come along and say, thanks, now that you have built some wealth we are going to take MORE of it and use it how we see fit. This is just another form of WELFARE.
Personal responsibility is lacking in our country and culture and needs to be reinstated ! Handouts have never solved anything. Raising taxes on businesses will only lead to a loss of jobs and/or an increase of prices to the consumer ( you and me ) or BOTH. Why will a company willingly pay higher taxes when they can pay less overseas ?
nationalized healthcare
This is far too costly on many fronts. First, it will cost billions if not trillions ( where will the money come from ? ) Second, it will negatively impact healthcare workers, hospitals and care in general. Third, while it may 'work' ( used loosely ) in Cuba or Canada, they have 1/3rd or even less the population that we do. Fourth, the government can not even handle already established programs like medicare and medicaid, yet Obama now wants the government to become the - 'Ultimate HMO' ??
enlist the youth in 'volunteer initiatives'
and other types of service
No specifically bad in intent, though how it will be applied and utilized is in question ( think- Nazi youth corps as an extreme example..)
Obama's associtaions are questionable in this sense ;
first, they show a PATTERN ( fool me once, shame on you, fool me twice, shame on me.) Second, these are people who have influenced his idealology, which is Socialist/ Marxists in nature. ( all these people were radicals / extremeists in one way or another..)
If in your group of friends, there is one with radical views, it is possible that you share them but not probable ( I am sure we all have a friend who's views differ from our own ), however, if MANY of your friends have radical views it IS probable that you share them.
Obama will NOT be able to give a tax cut to '95%' of all americans. The current state of the economy will just not allow it. To raise taxes ( which he WILL do ), will be disasterous for the economy in it's current fragile state. Better to leave the tax rates where they stand now, as McCain advocates.
All of the programs Obama is proposing will not be able to be implemented because they just cost too much money, and right now, there is NONE. What we need now and going forward is a steady hand to steer us through, not tax and spend policies.
Aside from the war, the economic policies of the last eight years are NOT what has lead us to where we are now. The subprime mortgage crisis is the main culprit. This began back under Clinton, when they desegregated the line between regular ( savings ) banks, and investment banks, and also loosened regulations for subprime loans.
The Bush administratoin had called for more regulation of Fannie and freddie, however they were blocked by the DEMOCRATS. Members like Chris Dodd and Barney Franks lead the blockage, as they were on the take ( they were recieving donations from Fannie and Freddie for their campaigns..) There is video proof of this from taped congressional hearings.
Obama also recieved large donations from Freddie and Fannie, as well as the fact that he helped to teach Acorn members how to lobby banks, to force them to give subprime loans. He also worked for a law firm which sued Banks that did not give subprime mortgages.
In his claims that McCain is the same as Bush, no one seems to have asked how Obama differs ? In his time as a Senator, he has voted 'present' over 130 times ( he has spent only 143 days in the Senate. ) So, how is voting 'present' opposing Bush ? How is voting 'present' -Change ? Answer.., it is not. Obama is a typical politician without much a a record of anything aside from some shady associations and not taking a stand on anything. His only real concern is his ambition.
We do not need this, especially at this time. We need steady, trustworthy and proven leadership, and McCain is all of these.
As a senator McCain has accomplishe dmuch, and with even greater powers as President, i have no doubt that he will accomplish even more, especially in regards to cleaning up and reforming washington. What we need now is LESS government, not more. .... |
| LC, NY |
| 07:57 October 17 |
Obama thninks he is running against the republicans and George W. Bush, he keeps says how bad the last 8 years have been, its time for change. No crap! McCain knows that. However he is running against McCain, who is a libral Republican, unlike GWB. McCain and GWB are not exactly best friends, but GWB does endorse McCain.
As McCain put it best in the last debate, if you wanted to run against Bush, you should have ran 8 years ago"
Obama is clueless about a lot of issues.
He started the mudslinging. He is spending lots of money on negative campaigning, when I WANT to hear what you will do for us, not what you think McCain will do!
Do the right thing dude, vote McCain, our future depends on it! God Bless the USA! (Which I am sure Obama will try to change that to "Pope Bless the USA". .... |
| Lila, CA |
| 07:50 October 17 |
I do not want the goverment in control of my health care! We need to become energy efficient. We need to drill, not "look into" drilling offshore. Oh, and drilling mean make jobs, hello! We need nuclear plants for energy once again = jobs, and less reliablility on foreign resources. We need to research alternate means of energy like wind, etc = jobs for research then building the new sources. We need to continue to trade with Columbia, which Obama oposses. We need someone who doesn't not cater to the the state he is in, but has as the same message all of the time. We need to reduce spending, and Obama wants to add more special programs such as sending all kids to preschool. Most of us over 40 didn't go to preschool, did you? I bet Obama didn't go to preschool. We do not need to spend public money on preschool. Theparents need to do their jobs and teach their own kids a thing or two, set up play dates for socialization, etc or don't have kids!
VOTE McCAIN!!!! .... |
| Matthew, IL |
| 07:40 October 17 |
| If elected he will be assinated,(too many racial people, my friend, he is a dead man) and we will have Joe Biden as an president, now that's scary! That's WHY McCAIN!!! |
| Jennifer, OH |
| 06:58 October 17 |
| Very simple...you dont create jobs by taxing the corporations and small businesses that offer the jobs. Higher taxes = less profits = less jobs. Its a very simple equation. Plus, under Obama's plan about 30% of the population will recieve a check from the government, instead of "paying" thier taxes. Tax the rich to give to the poor. Thats called redistribution of wealth, aka socialism. Socialism is only good for the lazy and unmotivated. That is not the type of country we want. |
| Socialism sucks, IL |
| 06:53 October 17 |
| THE COMMUNIST HOMO NEWS MEDIA ARE DOING INVESTIGATIVE STORIES ON “JOE THE PLUMBER” AND SARAH PALIN’S HUSBAND. WHY HAVEN’T THEY DONE ANY INVESTIGATIVE FEATURES ON OSAMA OBAMA’S BLACK-ASS MUSLIM FATHER IN “MOTHER AFRICA”. HOW MANY WIVES DOES HIS FATHER CURRENTLY HAVE? HOW ABOUT ALL OSAMA OBAMA’S HALF BROTHERS AND SISTERS. WHY NOT INTERVIEW THE WHOLE TRIBE. SEARCH THEM OUT IN THE BUSH A DO AN INCISIVE COMPREHENSIVE FEATURE STORY. NO SIREE! THE COMMUNIST HOMO NEWS MEDIA WOULD RATHER COVER “JOE THE PLUMBER” AND LEAVE US IN THE DARK CONCERNING THE RELATIVES OF THE DEMOCRATIC PRESIDENTIAL PRETENDER. THEY WILL NOT EVEN INTERVIEW OSAMA OBAMA’S WHITE RELATIVES IN AMERICA. THIS IS MOST PROBABLY BECAUSE THEY DO NOT LIKE HIM AND WILL BE VOTING FOR JOHN MCCAIN AND SARAH PALIN. ALL WE REALLY KNOW ABOUT THE OSAMA OBAMA FAMILY IS THAT HE HAS 2 DAUGHTERS AND THAT HIS WIFE HAS A BIG ASS. .... |
| Sam, KY |
| 05:25 October 17 |
To save our country we must have a leader that will reduce taxes (grow the economoy); And, simulaneously, reduce spending.
McCain is serious about reducing taxes. Not only on every individual and family, but capital gains and finally business taxes. Business tax cuts are most needed right now. When large multi-national companies (Exxon, GM, Haier, Samsung, Siemens, Total, Petrobras, Komatsu) have decisions to make about manufacturing (R&D, cars, washer/dryers, cell phones, machine tools, refineries, drilling equipment and heavy equipment) they must decide where can they get low costs (which we have an advantage now with a weak dollar). Additionally, they need to know that they are going to be able to bring profits to their bottom line, when countries like Ireland, Singapore, Czech Republic, Poland, China and Vietnam have lower corporate tax rates than the USA, you know we will have a problem winning companies to invest here. Lower corporate taxes first, that will increase jobs available. Then, companies will compete for workers (like in the 90s), which will allow people to move to other companies for higher pay.
Additionally, this growing economy will increase tax receipts to the Federal Government which will allow us to have surplus (so long as we reign in spending -see below) and pay down our debt.
Reducing Government Spending is just as important because it transfers money (resources) from a completely bureaucratic and inefficient entity, to entrerpreneurs, States and local projects which are much more efficient.
Whatsmore, is that we truly need to be paying down our debt. We need to maintain a tight budget.
Josh - with all that you have read, researched and feel - who do you trust to reduce taxes (to increase growth = higher tax receipts) and cut spending.
My best estimate is that McCain is the clear choice for these two most important issues. .... |
| Fred, NY |
| 05:18 October 17 |
Do we need a Nigger running our Country?
Look at his name!!
Do we need a muslim ruining our country...bombing our country...trying to educate ignorant niggers??
But I think the cocksucker's gonna get in...cuz we have lots of stupid fucking people in this country!! |
| CrazeeCarl, WA |
| 04:38 October 17 |
| Go back to the republican primaries and watch McCain get spanked by a true american patriot. RON PAUL !!! |
| Anonymous |
| 04:33 October 17 |
| Because Obama doesn't know his ass from a hot rock, and I don't want my guns and rights taken away |
| Jim, OR |
| 00:30 October 17 |
Who Am I...
I am under 45 years old,
I love the outdoors,
I hunt,
I fish,
I am a Republican reformer,
I have taken on the Republican Party establishment,
I have many children,
I have a spot on the national ticket as vice president with less than two years in the governor's office.
Have you ever heard of me before now?
...
....
.....
......
......
........
..........
I am Teddy Roosevelt. |
| Lisa, CT |
| 00:07 October 17 |
Quotes from Jeremiah Wright:
"Racism is how this country was founded and how this country is still run. No black man will ever be considered for president, no matter how hard you run Jesse [Jackson] and no black woman can ever be considered for anything outside what she can give with her body."
"America is still the number one killer in the world."
"White America got their wake-up call after 9/11. White America and the Western world came to realize people of color had not gone away, faded in the woodwork, or just disappeared as the Great White West kept on its merry way of ignoring black concerns."
"We (Americans) are deeply involved in the importing of drugs, the exporting of guns and the training of professional KILLERS. . . . We believe in white supremacy and black inferiority and believe it more than we believe in God. . . . We conducted radiation experiments on our own people. . . . We care nothing about human life if the ends justify the means!"
"We have supported state terrorism against the Palestinians and black South Africans, and now we are indignant because the stuff we have done overseas is now brought right back to our own front yards. America's chickens are coming home to roost." -- (commenting on the 9/11 attacks)
"The government gives them the drugs, builds bigger prisons, passes a three-strike law and then wants us to sing 'God Bless America.' No, no, no, God damn America, that's in the Bible for killing innocent people. God damn America for treating our citizens as less than human. God damn America for as long as she acts like she is God and she is supreme."
"When [Obama’s] enemies find out that in 1984 I went to Tripoli" (to visit Col. Muammar el-Qaddafi with Nation of Islam leader Louis Farrakhan) "a lot of his Jewish support will dry up quicker than a snowball in hell."
"We (the United States of America) started the AIDS virus."
"Black women are being raped daily in Africa. One white girl from Alabama gets drunk at a graduation trip to Aruba, goes off and gives it up while in a foreign country and that stays in the news for months."
"The Israelis have illegally occupied Palestinian territories for over 40 years now. Divestment has now hit the table again as a strategy to wake the business community and wake up Americans concerning the injustice and the racism under which the Palestinians have lived because of Zionism."
Barack Obama spent 20 years as a member of this man's church. Rev. Wright married him and his wife and baptised their children.. And Obama admits that he MAY have heard some controversial things coming from Wright.
20 YEARS IN THIS CHURCH. 20 YEARS LISTENING TO THIS RHETORIC! I don't believe... common sense tells me not to believe that Obama never really knew that Wright felt this way. And to have this man perform his marriage and baptise his children.. and THEN... in the middle of a political campaign, when REALIZING that this would be controversial... then he decides to leave the church and condemn the comments and rhetoric of Wright. NOT in ANY of the 20 years PRIOR to his campaign.. but only when it became a point of scandal and outrage amont people. ONLY when people started talking about it did Obama leave the church, and even THEN it took several weeks for him to finally denounce Wright and basically say "Hey I may have heard some stuff that I didn't agree with but I don't believe it" EVEN THOUGH HE SPENT 20 YEARS IN THIS CONGREGATION
20 Years with a man who spews "God Damn America," And "America invented AIDS."
Only when it was politically inconvenient for Obama did he try to distance himself from this church.
I can't believe that anyone would spend 20 years somewhere and have no clue / not AGREE with what was going on in that organization.
This scares me greatly. .... |
| Davis, CO |
| 00:00 October 17 |
| I make much less than $250,000 a year and under Obama I will pay about $4,000 more in taxes because he will let the Bush tax cuts expire and his tax increase will affect my income. Please don't fall for the soundbites of either campaign, do some independent research! |
| Bill C., FL |
| 23:56 October 16 |
| The fact that Obama has an "Obama Youth" website and for little kids and has them singing songs of his praises scares the hell out of me. Reminds me of Hitler Youth and Crazy North Koreans singing songs of Kim Jong-Il... who Obama would love to sit down and talk with |
| Lori, CA |
| 23:54 October 16 |
| Steady bipartisan leadership mixed with a history as a reformer. |
| Michael M, OH |
| 23:47 October 16 |
| Because he is not Obama! |
| Truth, CA |
| 23:41 October 16 |
I think you should vote for McCain for a lot of the reasons that people have already stated. I DON'T think you should vote for Obama because of the idea that "Sarah Palin is stupid and McCain will die soon." That's a HORRIBLE reason to vote / not vote for someone.
McCain's not the answer but I'd rather have 4-8 years of him than Obama. So far as Palin is concerned, she wouldn't have been my choice for VP, it was a blatant attempt to lure Hillary voters and women in general to McCain's camp but I have no real issue with her. The media tries to portray her as stupid but I don't really believe she is. And the argument that "what if McCain dies?" is Bullshit. McCain's not going to die. He's rich and moreso as President he'd have access to the best, most instant healthcare in the world. He's not dying. And it's not like she's gonna go "oh boya, are these the nuklar launch coodes? Let me try'n see if I can bahm some people, you bet'cha." In terms of actual power, the VP really does nothing but go to other countries for parties and ceremonies and rep. the US. They just have to smile and be polite and politic. That's 90% of their job. And in the rare, 1 time every 10,000 years when there's a tie in the senate they break the tie with a vote, which rarely, rarely, rarely, rarely, rarely ever happens.
Seriously, the Obama campaign is attacking Palin hardcore but here's the heads up... SHES NOT RUNNING FOR PRESIDENT! .... |
| Mitch, RI |
| 23:40 October 16 |
| All this talk about Obama's great health care plan is a travesty. Do some research on, say, Canada. Socialist health care is a joke. No one will ever aspire to excel as a Doctor in this country ever again! The way they will choose who gets an organ or any other type of transplant or even a flu shot will cause huge numbers of the sick to die. They'll probably have some wasteful government agency pick any disinfranchised souls who are not in prison as the top candidates. That would naturally be after they give them all of your hard earned money with the brilliant "spread the wealth" plan. I can't wait to hear who this sycophant plans to pick for cabinet and national security advisors. Might as well be some other celebrities or brilliant media products like Paris Hilton or Kim Kardashian. Either one of them has more executive experience, but they haven't been ordained as the Messiah like this "20 months of running for President" wonderkind. He's a well spoken joke! The only reason he ran 4 years before he was ready, was that he was afraid of losing his Senate seat that would've been up at the same time. I'll be glad when November 5th arrive so he can finally get off the nation stage and maybe do a little something for Illinois for a change. A novel idea! .... |
| Michael, MA |
| 22:49 October 16 |
Barack Obama's voting record (www.ontheissues.org). Some of these you might agree with, but all of them I disagree with. You decide Josh.
Voted NO on recommending Constitutional ban on flag desecration. (Jun 2006)
Voted NO on $40B in reduced federal overall spending. (Dec 2005)
Voted NO on notifying parents of minors who get out-of-state abortions. (Jul 2006)
Voted NO on paying down federal debt by rating programs' effectiveness. (Mar 2007)
Voted YES on banning drilling in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge. (Mar 2005)
Voted YES on allowing illegal aliens to participate in Social Security. (May 2006)
Supported granting driver's licenses to illegal immigrants. (Nov 2007) Proposal ultimately shot down overwhelmingly.
Voted YES on limiting soldiers' deployment to 12 months. (Jul 2007)
(Short deployment (12 months) is what a lot of people will argue cost America the Vietnam War as troops who were adjusting to unconventional jungle warfare were shipped out and inexperienced ones brought in. Although it is not confirmed or universally accepted that this is the case it does hold some merit.)
FactCheck: Yes, Obama cast 130 "present" votes in IL Senate. (Jan 2008) .... |
| Jessie, NY |
| 22:38 October 16 |
| Who would you trust Hussein Nobama the empty suit or Grandpa McCain ? Grandpa sounds better. sure Nobama he seems fresh or new but still no real experience, again he's an empty suit. We need someone like Grandpa McCain and Palin who has been around to lead US.. Obama is going to make mistakes which we cant afford at this critical time. McCain supports our Constitution. NOBAMA IS A BAD DISEASE, dont get me wrong i dont trust any politician. Vote Smart, its your CHOICE, DONT BE A PUPPET.. Youth means nothing, fake smiles mean nothing, looks mean nothing if we get a Dummy up there. You can learn a lot from a dummy. We dont need a Dummy. This is not a popularity contest, its our future your playing with. Wishing the best of luck for all if us. .... |
| Brain Brain Brain, IL |
| 22:31 October 16 |
From Obama's two books:
"I ceased to advertise my mother’s race at the age of twelve or thirteen, when I began to suspect that by doing so I was ingratiating myself to whites."
"To avoid being mistaken for a sellout, I chose my friends carefully. The more politically active black students. The foreign students. The Chicanos. The Marxist professors and structural feminists."
"The emotions between the races could never be pure; even love was tarnished by the desire to find in the other some element that was missing in ourselves. Whether we sought out our demons or salvation, the other race would always remain just that: menacing, alien, and apart." |
| Craig, CA |
| 22:20 October 16 |
I ordinarily do not cite Youtube videos as a supportive source of information but seeing as this is from actual congressional hearings I think it's worth taking a look at. In short, Republicans tried to warn congress about Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac in 2004 but where overwhelmingly, and ANGRILY ridiculed and shot down by a largely democratic response.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v... |
| David, NY |
| 22:10 October 16 |
Democrats as a whole largely champion government sponsored programs for lower-income families. I.e. Wellfare, food stamps, unemployment, etc... Note that I did not say solely, or exclusively, but social programs are a mainstay of Democratic policy.
While I'm not opposed to these programs, persay they are largely ineffective , financial black holes. Systems like welfare are designed to help people who have fallen on hard times sustain themselves while they get back on their feet. Instead we have people sitting on welfare without working (or working off the books and still collecting from the federal government) for YEARS on end. That is not what the system is designed to do and that is not what it is SUPPOSED to do.
Obama wants MORE social programs, MORE spending. In short, he just wants to throw MORE money at ineffective systems and programs that only wind up costing US, the taxpayers, more money at a time when , on Obama's own words, we are suffering "the greatest financial crisis since the great depression."
More money is not the answer for anything at this period in time. I don't know if John McCain will succeed in fixing these broken systems and programs but I DO know that Obama won't even try. .... |
| Greg, NJ |
|
|
JOSH FOUND THIS HELPFUL
|
| 21:54 October 16 |
I hear a lot of talk regarding healthcare and Cuba and nationalized healthcare so I thought I'd add my two cents on this.
First off Cuba is a socialist republic and to all these people telling you how "great" Cuba is let's not forget the thousands of people who flee the country paddling furiously on a screen door to make it to the US. Cuban-American's who remember life under Castro are very scared about an Obama presidency because they see glaring similarities in what he's talking about and what they saw under castro.
Bare in mind that Cuba is an island nation with a population roughly equal to Ohio (11 million give or take). On that small scale their healthcare system has worked because it is infinitely more manageable. Look at the larger countries like the UK (Pop. Roughly 60 million), and Canada (33 Million) and see that there's a disparity there. Also you're look at a country (Cuba), whose entire system of government is socialist not just the healthcare system so there's no disparity with other systems. Look at the problems with Socialized medicine in the UK and Canda where the rest of the government is not socialism and see where the problems begin to arise.
In 2007 American's spent roughly $2.26 trillion on health care, or roughly $7500 per person (According to the Office of the Actuary in the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services). Nake that 2.26 TRILLION Dollars and socialize it A. You eliminate private healthcare which eliminates America's competitiveness in the world market of healthcare and you can potentially cost millions of jobs depending upon how the system is actually set up. NOT to mention the fact that now that 2.26 trillion dollars has to come from the federal government which means it's going to come out of our taxes. Keeping that number as a base, we would STILL have to pay that $7500/year and that would mean we ALL would pay $7500/year wether we needed any healthcare that year or not.
Granted these numbers are not necceserily reflective of what absolutely happen but make no mistake... socialized medicine.. even partially, will REQUIRE an increase in taxes. The money has to come from somewhere. So remember that when someone tells you how great Cuba is.
I think Dennis Miller said it best: "Castro's true genius is at keeping Cuba so far down that a Category Four hurricane can hit the island head on and they still suffer almost no property damage." .... |
| Jerry, FL |
| 21:50 October 16 |
| Easy, because he's not Obama. The reason the stock market is at historical lows is because wall street thinks Obama is in. Vote McCain and then buy, buy, buy !!! |
| Gordon Gecco, MA |
| 21:36 October 16 |
RE: Amber for Obama
"Obama came from the lower-middle class and truly understands those who are struggling to get to a position where they don't have to live pay check to paycheck. <b>Joe the Plumber has accomplished that dream - good for him - now give other people a chance to realize that same dream</b>!"
We should expect that any hard working, dedicated, motivated person should be able to accomplish their goals. Regardless to the economy, if people take it upon themselves to become educated in a necessary field and dedicates the time and energy to it, they too can be just as successful as Joe.
Taxes have very little to do with accomplishing the American dream. You've had the chance all along, Obama and McCain have little to do with that. .... |
| Melissa, NH |
| 21:34 October 16 |
Josh, I commend you on your creativity and ingenuity. You are a great example of what it means to be an American, and to think like an American. Creative, resourceful, determined. The very attributes of millions of Americans that preceded you and helped make this the greatest country that the world has ever known.
You enjoy the freedom to choose because other Americans that preceded you paid for that freedom with their lives. It may sound like a rhetorical and faux Patriotic statement, but it is, in fact, the core truth of our Nation and its Constitution.
We are once again at war, not in Iraq, but on a global scale. We are at a crossroads of history. The world is waiting for our next move. Are we Spain? Will we bow to the pressure of Radical Islam? Josh ask yourself, if you were the President of Iran who would you want in the White House?
If you have answered that question honestly, you will have your answer.
God Bless America. .... |
| Warren Vincent, AZ |
| 21:31 October 16 |
| Palin is nice to look at.... |
| Mike, CA |
| 21:29 October 16 |
On the subject of the economy as a whole, Obama has stated that he wants to cut taxes on 95% of households which SOUNDS great but that 95% is impossible since one-third of those who file with the IRS are "non-payers," people who end up paying no tax or get money back which exceeds their payments. Obama plans to expand the Earned Income Tax Credit and create other credits. For those for whom the credits surpass their tax obligation, those are not tax cuts, but spending
hikes or federal giveaways akin to welfare or other government assisted living programs. But even if it WERE realistic to do as such maybe you should ask how does He plan to finance the war for a further
2 years if he wants to cut taxes on 95% of households? I remember his speech where he says he wants to bring the troops home "yesterday," This sounds great to opponents of the war but is unrealistic. Even if that's how he feels make no mistake, it WILL take time to bring the troops home. It WILL take years. Obama himself has stated he thinks 2010 would be a good time to start bringing the troops home. Pres. Bush has suggested 2011... really not too much of a difference there.
Also, that statement (bring the troops home yesterday) was made in the winter of 07. The day after this
years DNC Obama told a group of reporters in Boston.
"The failure of the Iraqi state would be a disaster. It would dishonor the 900-plus men and women who have already died. It would be a betrayal of the promise that we made to the Iraqi people, and it would be hugely destabilizing from a national security perspective."
So how does he feelt? Bring the troops home yesterday? Or stay there and finish the job?
When you couple that with his plan of wealth redistribution, or to quote him directly "Spread the wealth around" it sounds very very socialist to me, in fact it's actually one of the major aspects of socialism. I'm all for helping those less fortunate than myself (btw I
make less than 30K a year) but I don't want to be told that I have to.
And I'm not sure exactly how Obama meant that to sound, but a phrase like "I want to spread the wealth around" smacks of Marx, whom he openly admits having studied in college when he "palled around with
Marxist professors." A lot of his views are very socialist in nature, but I don't want to digress from the economy.
Jim Johnson, the former VP of Fannie Mae and former Managing Director of Lehman brothers was as recently as June, part of Obama's council to vet potential VP candidates for him. Between 1989 and 2008 Obama
recieved the second highest sum of money from Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, second only to Chris Dodd which also makes me question his economic integrity seeing as Obama's only been a state senator for three years to Dodds twenty-seven. Though Johnson is no longer an "active" member of Obama's campaign he has still donated money to him and continues to support him.
IF Obama wants to lower taxes on businesses making less than 250,000 /yr AND cut taxes for 95% of households how does he plan on paying for the war, not to mention his 10-year, $150 billion increased spending plan?
More taxes. Make no mistake, our taxes will likely go up regardless of who gets into office. At some point they will have to go up. But McCain is proposing a spending freeze and careful examination of government spending to see where we could trim a little off here and there. Ultimately our taxes MAY increase on the back end but hopefully we'll be in a better economic position at that point. Obama has a ten year (I.e. right after he gets into office and extending 2 years beyond an assumed 2nd term), TEN YEAR plan of increased spending worth OVER 150 billion dollars at a time right now when American's are hurting at the pump, at the bank, and just about every other way one can hurt financially.
There's other reasons I don't particularly care for Obama such as his associations with questionable folks: Ayers, Wright, Reiko, ACORN, etc. Sure he can downplay and diminish all these associations, not to mention a LOOOONG list of other questionable associations but at some point common sense has to step in and say "How many times can he deny, downplay, or just refuse to talk about his association with question individual after questionable individual before it starts getting ridiculous?" How long before we start using common sense and ask "Hey, what's going on with this guy?"
Hugo Chavez (Yes, THAT Hugo Chavez) has also come out in favor of Obama, not to mention Fidel Castro, Louis Farrakhan, Iranian president Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, The Socialist Party, USA, The Communist Party USA, and the list goes on and on and on. Granted a candidate can not help if someone chooses to endorse him but the fact that these individuals who are in such stark contrast with American interests and ideology would openly SUPPORT Obama should raise questions about just what it is these terrorists, socialists, and fringe fanatics see in him that support their beliefes/causes. It's no surprise to me that everyone would have an opinion on the outcome of the US Elections including these individuals that I have listed, but these folks don't just "prefer" or "would rather see" Obama, they openly endorse, support, and sing his praises. Scary to me that he's got the likes of Castro, Chavez, and the Communist Party cheering him on. .... |
| Dave, NY |
|
|
JOSH FOUND THIS HELPFUL
|
| 21:10 October 16 |
I'd like the USA to still be a democracy in 2010. Not a socialist Nation.
Obama does seem to have the best interest of the ENTIRE nation in mind. He seems to be going solely for the minority / poverty vote. We don't need Robin hood in the white house, we need better options for everyone to work and pay their own way. The welfare system is already abused. If we try and allocate more funds into this system, where is the incentive to getting a job and working to pay your own way? |
| Michelle, MA |
| 20:59 October 16 |
Because he is the best candidate at this period of time.
There was a toss up between bush and the man who invented the internet; then a toss up between bush and a wako. The better must win as our nation depends on it. The few freedoms we have are not fixed.
Our constitution does not allow us to bail out banks or AIG. I am surprised that no person, on either side of the aisle, or Nader, is drafting papers for the supreme court.
There was Johnson and Nixon, and Reagan and carter. Each time the better candidate won. We cant risk it. But the liberals and democrats very well will get osama into office as ACORN stuffs the ballot box.
Municipal unions, including teachers, Transit, State employee unions etc are leading the way to our destruction.
The only citizen that ought to have the right to vote are our men and women who serve or have served. They laid their lives out there and set themselves on the line for the poor decisions our leaders have made.
Wilson killed thousands: FDR millions: Truman 60000: Johnson 60000: Clinton, he brought us the Iraq wars and the Taliban, al queda etc. As I see it Obambi will have more Americans killed than bush. McCain knows more than anyone that war must be avoided and peace made. And bush hood winked the pubbies because if one attends Andover, Yale and Harvard the chances that you are a republican is nill.
PTL that our armed services developed the B-36. Its not what its called without a reason. .... |
| e.fudd, NY |
|
|
JOSH FOUND THIS UNHELPFUL
|
| 20:33 October 16 |
| Hmmm. |
| Karbon Kenny, RI |
| 20:32 October 16 |
| Lower taxes for EVERYONE, a real defense policy, stay on offense on the war on terror, actual experience in real government; not spending his adulthood serving on boards with admitted terrorists and hanging on a church praying for God to "damn America." |
| Ken, NY |
| 19:22 October 16 |
| Why follow as Ass go to the Elephant and rule |
| dixie chick, CO |
| 19:21 October 16 |
| McCain Plain with my support will go all the way. we need a white to rule not some trashy black who can only talk. |
| concord-family, GA |
|
|
It scares me that you have the right to vote. -Josh Gross
|
| 19:20 October 16 |
| Palin has guts |
| ALASKADude, AK |
| 19:19 October 16 |
| i do not see any concrete proposal from OBAMA about fixing economy. I could hear him talk about it only after McCain proposed something. Thats very Lame. |
| haveyounoticed, CA |
| 19:17 October 16 |
McCain
Drill Baby Drill
McCain
Drill Baby Drill
McCain
Drill Baby Drill |
| drill rant, CA |
| 19:16 October 16 |
NOBAMA is only TALK no action.
McCain is no BUSH.
do not rate McCain like Bush. |
| Yourmama, CA |
| 19:14 October 16 |
| Joe the Plumber says vote McCain |
| Drainoland, CA |
| 19:14 October 16 |
| Mc Cain |
| mccainsuporters, CA |
| 19:13 October 16 |
This is your Grandma Dear!
I am watching from above.
do u want to go back to flipping ur burgers again ? listen. Vote McCain and sweet darling Palin.
I have my eyes on You : |
| GrandmaCentral, CA |
| 19:11 October 16 |
Josh go with the only sensible team. McCain/Palin
trust me on this one.
All the poles are vague, the folks that have decided about voting Mccain do not get to these sites at all for responding to these polls. NOBAMA is going to loose big time. go the the right side of the dial. |
| IOWNCRYSTALBALLwithHD, CA |
| 18:06 October 16 |
| Because you just can't vote for OBAMA! Enough said! |
| Ann Coppess, OH |
| 16:48 October 16 |
| If you think the economy is struggling now, just wait and see what happens when you tax the crap out of the very people(the so called evil rich man) that will be the driving force behind the recovery. I love it when the Democrats claim that trickle down economics doesn't work. Please name for me any poor person you know that gave someone a job. The rich create jobs plain and simple. When they are struggling as they are now jobs are Destroyed. The liberals love to claim how the evil big bad companies are the culprit behind all the job losses. Well then who the hell do they think are going to create the new ones. The poor people? I think not. As soon as you tax people more they will do everything in their power to pay out less money which will include cutting jobs, holding on to assets that are better sold, and actually working less. For years we have taxed items in our daily lives in the name of public good to make people use less of that item; IE: Cigarettes, Alcohol, Gasoline... The reasoning behind it is that people will have an inherent need to not pay that tax so they will do less of whatever is causing the tax. So why don't liberals ever realize that is what they are doing to workers. It makes you resent working and giving 50% of your money to the government, therefore some people won't work as hard... Vote for Obama if you want a forced helping hand on everything in your daily life. I just hope you aren't the one being forced to pay for it all. .... |
| Darren Watson, CA |
| 14:47 October 16 |
In response to Roz in CA, here is the real story on the video of Israeli Generals.
http://pqasb.pqarchiver.com/jp...
The problem is that people will belive anything they are told without looking at the facts. Who ever you choose to vote for, make sure you understand their positions and record. I don't really care for either candidate. That saide, I'd rather go with someone who has a voting record over someone who like to vote "present" instead of taking a side.
Government was set up to make sure no branch abuses it's power. Therefore, if people are upset at Bush for the war in Iraq and other thing, then thy place Democrats in the House and Senate. This happend 2 years ago and I have not seen much change. People can promis many things, but the reality is that it is hard to change things. I really do not like Obama saying change this, change that, because if his ideas of change is to expand goverment and regulations, just go down to the local DMV, what a model of efficiency.
So Obama will lower income taxes on a mojority of the population. Great! But he will raise capital gains taxes and lower the detuctable amount for small businesses and raise business tax rates. Guess what, businesses don't like taxes so they will just pass on the cost to the consume and have to cut costs in other places like, sending jobs oversees, cutting worker benefits and increasing prices. On a personal level, I can't for the life of me understand this tax cut thing because Obama wants to raise taxes on our investments. This menase that if I invest more in the market (which help spur the economy, if I profit, the goverment will take a good chunk of that money. So in the end, no real tax relief.
In the end I feel it is better to vote for what you know, rather than roll the dice on someone who has a great and positive message and speaks beautifully, but has too little policy experience.
BTW, I don't think much of Palin. .... |
| Me, CA |
| 14:07 October 16 |
The reason the US economy boomed in the 90s is because of the tax cuts and policies of Ronald Reagan. Bill Clinton came in and rose taxes and signed NAFTA, which is the direct cause of the job losses we see. Democratic groups such as ACORN which found loans for low income families to buy houses they could not afford are also to blame for the foreclosure problem.
Bottom line, Obama and the Democrats have given no ideas or answers for fixing the crisis because they have none. Republicans are the side of business and industry, and if we want to see America stay the great country that it is, we need that right now. What we don't need is higher taxes, more welfare for people who don't work, and socialism.
>
Democrats = Socialism, and the Founding Fathers would be rolling in their graves if they knew what the Dems were trying to do. .... |
| Brian Sennett, MI |
| 13:50 October 16 |
Josh,
If you're looking at health care as a main issue to help swing your vote. You should know that SarahN from MN is right, Cuba and Canada are not the only countries with free health care. The UK has it too.
I'm friends with both someone from the UK and Canada and both have had horrible issues with their health care systems. My friends cousin died from cancer in the UK because their health care system took too long to diagnose the problem. Her cousin waited almost a year for approval of a test that would tell them he had cancer. If he was privy to this information sooner, the cancer wouldn't have spread to the point of no return before starting treatment.
My other friend from Canada had to come to the US for treatment that he couldn't receive in a timely manner in Canada.
People come here for better medical treatment. Why take that away?
Check out the blogs below if you'd like more information and point of view on UK healthcare.
http://astuteblogger.blogspot.... .... |
| lingle, CA |
|
|
JOSH FOUND THIS HELPFUL Sorry to hear about your friends. I've heard similar stories of unacceptable waiting periods in Canada. Thanks for the link, I'll be sure to check it out. -Josh Gross
|
| 13:43 October 16 |
| sarcasm is just lost on some people |
| Anonymous |
| 13:27 October 16 |
In response to Karl Marx - I find it disturbing that you choose Obama because he will take from the rich and give to the poor & that he can spin issues. How can you praise that you think he will "follow the great economic force of Cuba"? Last I checked, we were still in a better position than Cuba.
My husband and I have worked so, so hard to get where we are at today. And we're planning for where we want to be tomorrow. We've made many sacrifices to build a good financial foundation. And we live responsibly without the overhang of serious debt. Why dismiss all of those efforts and give away our money to others that haven't planned well? We donate to a variety of programs & pay our taxes, and we already work our butts off to do so. I don't feel that spreading the wealth to everyone is fair when not every one works as hard as we do. Rework our school programs, educate people to so that they can build better lives for themselves, but don't promote handouts.
I'm voting for McCain because he understands hard work, financial & physical, he is for less government, more individual choice (which is what this country is built on), and he wants competitive tax rates, which in turn will help small businesses and prompt corporations to keep jobs in the U.S.
People shouldn't assume that he's an extension of George W. He's proven that he is his own man, with good determination, and that he has our country's future at heart. VOTE MCCAIN. .... |
| Lady for McCain, CA |
|
|
JOSH FOUND THIS HELPFUL Great insights. Thank you. -Josh Gross
|
| 12:28 October 16 |
The last thing this economy needs right now is more government spending. As much as Palin in power scares the shit out of me, Obama's economic policies scare me more.
The aforementioned health care issue is just one way to rack up the national debt more. And tax cuts for the majority of the nation is not the right thing to do right now. We need to cut spending, and balance the budget. You can bet Obama will not be vetoing Pelosi's pork. |
| Tom, FL |
|
|
JOSH FOUND THIS HELPFUL
|
| 11:26 October 16 |
| You DO NOT want the Government to be in-charge of our Health Care. Look at Canada and Cuba. If Obama gets control, where is he going to get all this money to throw at the Health Care plan he's talking about. From us the tax payer. Isn't that what the Liberals are complaining about, taxing our $5000.00 health care credit. |
| Dave3d, MI |
|
|
Government-controlled health care scares the crap out of me ... They do have a habit of screwing things up. -Josh Gross
|
|
|
JOSH FOUND THIS HELPFUL
|
| 12:11 October 16 |
To LLan from Ca & the middle east:
We don't need advice on how to vote from someone who never could. Please go home and pack sand. |
| Joe Plumber, OH |
|
|
And we don't need you to be an asshole ... try putting a helpful comment up - it'll do a lot more good. -Josh Gross
|
| 11:58 October 16 |
| Can expect more Lee Greenwood, "Proud to be an American" |
| Feller, KY |
| 11:57 October 16 |
| Obama pronounces Pakistan - (Pok - i - stan), what a goober. |
| Count De Monet, NV |
|
|
JOSH FOUND THIS UNHELPFUL
|
| 11:55 October 16 |
| Biden's choice of a hair transplant surgeon + his divide Iraq into 3 problems, scare me to death. |
| Bosley, CA |
| 11:46 October 16 |
| Vote for a true American Hero who puts this country first. Ok, that sounds like talking points....but he really does have a history of cutting through spending and keeping other politician accountable. It may be a time for change, but not the wrong kind. Let's not make government even bigger and give them more power and money. Plus McCain's administration would be reminiscent of Teddy Roosevelt's, and there was none cooler than Teddy and the Rough Riders. Protect the people. Protect our precious land. |
| McCain's a Maverick, MI |
|
|
JOSH FOUND THIS HELPFUL Do you have a link for more information on McCain's record of cutting spending? I'll be sure to do some looking on my end. -Josh Gross
|
| 11:46 October 16 |
Josh-If you were to look at historic facts, you would learn that most of the current economic problems stem from recent and past democrat politicial action.
Going back through history you will find that major influence from Chris Dodd, Barney Franks, Nancy Pelosi, Bill Clinton, and Jimmy Carter were at of the root of the Fannie/Freddie problems that led to the present banking meltdown.
Many of these actions were taken with what they "felt" were good intentions. And Josh, you know what the road to hell is paved with.
When will liberals learn that "give-away programs" don't help anyone in the long term?
One could not have conceived of a more diabolical way to hold down minorities than Lyndon Johnson's "Great Society" . The message was: "Why go to school or work? The government will take care of you."
Give-away promises that attempt to replace hard work and risk vs. reward competition have always failed and always will.
It's not that Obama is a bad guy; he isn't. It's just that he has no knowlege of or experience with the real world. .... |
| Free Willie, FL |
|
|
JOSH FOUND THIS HELPFUL Very helpful insight. Thank you. -Josh Gross
|
| 11:32 October 16 |
| you sexist guys talking about the candidates' women's looks aren't doing mccain any favors. you sound like idiots...josh? |
| Anonymous |
| 11:16 October 16 |
| being stuck on a bus with women that are easy to look at during the campaign trail is a way better idea then staring at Bidens hairplugs. Who had the better idea? hair plugs or alaskan beauty queen? just shows some thinking that goes outside the box |
| Anonymous |
| 11:14 October 16 |
| To IIan in California who used this as a platform to announce his disdain for politicians and mock the American voting system. No one cares what you have to say, you are not an American Citizen, shut up and go "home". You can thank the USA for making it safe for you now. |
| Katie, MI |
| 11:05 October 16 |
| you sexist guys talking about the candidates' women's looks aren't doing mccain any favors. you sound like idiots...josh? |
| Anonymous |
|
|
I'm a bit behind in my responses ... see my comment on the post below. -Josh Gross
|
| 10:51 October 16 |
Its not my responsibility to pay for the poor choices others have made. if you dont have health care at your place of employment. if you cant get a new job go back to school. if you cant go back to school maybe you should have taken advantage of the thirteen years of school you got for free. john mccains healthcare plan is far from perfect but Obamas is much closer to socialized healthcare(like Cuba).
Competition and greed are 2 of the largest driving forces in the world. by having competitive tax rates for businesses in the US we can create jobs. if you tax them until they want to leave and go where they can make more money.
Cindy McCain is hot but I'd rather look at Sarah Palin. any guy that can get one of the better looking women in politics on his side has my vote. .... |
| Anonymous, MI |
|
|
I agree with you to an extent. A lot of Americans refuse to take responsibility for their own actions and expect the government to fix/provide everything for them.
And yes, I am a guy, so I do understand that McCain has a disproportionally hot wife, and Palin does have that hot librarian thing kind of going on ... BUT THIS ISN'T WHY YOU VOTE FOR A PRESIDENT.
Please stop commenting on who's more attractive, who'd you'd rather look at for the next four years, etc. It makes us look like a nation of idiots (which probably isn't too far from the truth). -Josh Gross
|
|
|
I agree with you to an extent. A lot of Americans refuse to take responsibility for their own actions and expect the government to fix/provide everything for them.
And yes, I am a guy, so I do understand that McCain has a disproportionally hot wife, and Palin does have that hot librarian thing kind of going on ... BUT THIS ISN'T WHY YOU VOTE FOR A PRESIDENT.
Please stop commenting on who's more attractive, who'd you'd rather look at for the next four years, etc. It makes us look like a nation of idiots (which probably isn't too far from the truth). -Josh Gross
|
| 09:57 October 16 |
| he didn't dance with Ellen |
| Feller, KY |
| 07:28 October 16 |
| I am not voting for McCain. VETO 2008! |
| UnconcernedCitizen.com, DC |
| 06:57 October 16 |
1. Lower taxes. I don't want to pay higher taxes just because Obama wants to give money (tax credits) to people that don't pay any tax. Lower taxes mean more jobs for everyone. When companies pay high taxes (we are already the second highest in the free world) they cannot afford to hire people. They make our products non-competitive.
2. Experience. Obama has nver run anything. Palin has infinitiely more experience than Obama.
3. Trust. Obama has too many questionable associations. McCain had one involved with Howard Keating but he openly admitted his error in judgement.
4. Summation: If you want government to take care of you vs. taking care of yourself, you are liberal and vice reversa. |
| g. nydude, MI |
|
|
JOSH FOUND THIS HELPFUL
|
| 06:15 October 16 |
Whenever you are voting for a President it is important to prioritize the issues important to you. Then, you assign a weight to that issue, you end up with a Political Pie Here is my recipe:
1) Taxes (weight 50%) - McCain will cut taxes for everyone, including businesses which will provide jobs and encourage competition for jobs. This in turn will raise wages for everyone. This has a dual effect of getting more income to people that want to work.
Obama wants to spread the wealth. This means higher taxes on many people. What is worse, is that he wants to give a check to people that do not pay any taxes whatsoever. That is not a tax reduction, that is welfare.
2) Strong Defense (weight 25%) - McCain served his country, knows about military strategy and has been a POW. He will be a great Commander In Chief. His vision for the surge was remarkable - even when others in his party had given up on the war.
Obama has no vision, no experience and has voted against the surge, railed against the surge and will not admit that it was effective.
3) McCain's Wife is hot (15%) - I am not sure how old she is, but she is still easy on the eyes. She has fake knockers; And, she owns a multi-million dollar beer distribution company.
Obama's wife has alot of future behind her. But, she would be hard pressed to get a blue ribbon at a 4h fair.
This shows excellent judgment on the part of McCain
4) Seperation of Church and State (10%) - I do not want any candidate adding more censorship or taking away state rights. Though most of my views are conservative, I distance myself from the Christian Right at almost every turn (aside from promotion of the family).
McCain and Obama are both equal in their stance here. Neither wants to intrude on individuals' rights. McCain is a Federalist who wants power in the States' hands.
Your Political Pie may be much different depending on how many issues (slices) that divide your Pie. The important point is to really weigh those issues so you can know who best serves your interests. .... |
| Mike, MI |
|
|
JOSH FOUND THIS HELPFUL
|
| 01:00 October 16 |
I will be voting for McCain because he his policies actually make sense and are actually based on sound reasoning, he has show a willingness and ability to effectively serve his country both in the military and as a senator, and he has shown a willingness to lead - even when his own party isn't too excited about following.
I recognize that Obama is an intelligent and persuasive man. Unfortunately, like every other Democrat I have heard speak his domestic policy amounts to "let me help you out (by taking your money)" and "let me fix our problems (by telling you what you can and can not think.)"
We don't need more government, we need less. We don't need more centralization of power4; we need less. We don't need the government fixing our problems, we need them to stop being our problems. Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae, sub-prime mortgages, and the current banking crisis; all of that was caused by government mandates and housing policy. etc. .... |
| Aaron M., CA |
|
|
JOSH FOUND THIS HELPFUL
|
| 23:19 October 15 |
| Just reading some of the comments from Obama supporters, makes me wonder if he's a presidential candidate or cult leader. Let's tread carefully here. |
| Matthew M., GA |
| 22:21 October 15 |
| cause the world needs him |
| tito, CO |
| 21:44 October 15 |
I'm disappointed that this poll only offers two selections. So I'm putting my advice in this column because I feel McCain needs some support. I don't think he deserves it, just needs it.
On behalf of our failing political system, I'd like to remind you that there are more than 2 parties, and over 100 candidates still pushing to the end. You may be delighted to know that there is a man named Santa Claus in the running, and horrified to know that the Nazis have a candidate. And there is always the option to write in a candidate you think would be truly qualified.
The last reason I can give for voting Republican is simply to gum up the progressive works on Capital Hill. Same party legislative and executive branches at such a pivotal point in our history could lead to some really ill thought legislation going through. So vote for checks and balances. Keep the bipartisan hatred burning strong. It is the last PC form of bigotry proffered us. Us and them baby us and them. .... |
| a cynical Jac Madsen, CA |
|
|
JOSH FOUND THIS HELPFUL
|
| 21:04 October 15 |
More war = more dead people = more social security for me.
More tax cuts for the oil companies = more national debt = less $$ for deadbeat socialists. |
| SarahP, AK |
|
|
JOSH FOUND THIS UNHELPFUL
|
| 20:40 October 15 |
| Maybe you haven't heard, but McCain is a maverick. And maverick = awesome. So you can vote for a man who doesn't have a cool nickname or a man whose name means awesome. I don't know how much easier I can make this for you. |
| Goose, CA |
| 19:10 October 15 |
You should write-in Batman for your vote because both of these candidates are awful. If we get enough people, this might just work.
My name is Alfred Pennyworth (The Butler) and I approve this message. |
| Alfred Pennyworth, MN |
| 19:09 October 15 |
| he looked hot on "The View" |
| Tony, KY |
| 19:08 October 15 |
| he farts too much |
| Bill, ID |
| 19:07 October 15 |
| Because health care and great schools are not god given rights. Because people should choose to be charitable, and stand up for others around them in need, and not be forced to. Because raising taxes for some people and not others is not "fair", its an unfair way of punishing people who have either gotten super lucky, or have broken their back for what they have. Fair would be a flat tax. Because I don't agree that babies that could live outside the womb at the time of an abortion should be left to die for any reason the woman chooses...thats plain ole murder. Because I don't think a woman or anyone has the right to determine when a "fetus" has a soul. McCain has his flaws, so does Barack. Both parties have flaws. There are things that I agree with Obama about, but the things that affect me and my family the most side with McCain. .... |
| Leann, MI |
|
|
JOSH FOUND THIS HELPFUL
|
| 19:02 October 15 |
| No, because I'll actually be thinking about what's good for all Americans, not just myself. |
| Anonymous |
| 18:48 October 15 |
| when you're making $250,000 within the next four years, you'll thank me. |
| Xavier, IL |
| 18:42 October 15 |
| is that what this election is about - "food and kids"? Boy has this country lost its way... |
| illiquid, CA |
| 18:23 October 15 |
I doubt you have a hard time feeding your kids and paying for your medical insurance on $250k a year.
|
|
V |
| Anonymous |
| 18:21 October 15 |
Dear Josh,
Since I am not allowed to vote, I am delighted for this marvelous opportunity. Thank you.
At any case, I don't like Obama. His cry for change might do good on the domestic front, but I worry his openness will lead to experiments on the expense of my home country, back in the middle east. I see Obama as an awesome individual, but a dangerous option as the world's strongest man.
That being said, I honestly cannot understand how an American citizen, living in this country, can vote for the Republican party. It just doesn't make any sense. And McCain? I don't think this country / world needs another US president who's in it just to prove his old man he's not a fuckup.r />
So my advice to you is simple - Definitely vote. Just make sure your vote will be disqualified. I suggest inserting a nude photo of some sort into your envelope, or using the voting paper as your canvas for whatever. That way you'll exercise your right, while sending a nice fuck you to all politicians.
Godspeed .... |
| Ilan, CA |
| 18:20 October 15 |
I doubt you have a hard time feeding your kids and paying for your medical insurance on $250k a year.
|
|
V |
| Anonymous |
| 18:16 October 15 |
| Because $250k/yr doesn't make you "wealthy" in NYC, LA, SF, and that segment of the population already bears a massively disproportionate burden of the tax load. The last thing we need in these uncertain economic times is a disincentive to be productive on those who have traditionally produced them most. |
| illiquid, CA |
| 18:08 October 15 |
• Experience
• Devoted to people who work hard (Unlike Obama, who plans on taxing the rich and giving to the poor. God helps them who help themselves.)
• Doesn't plan on spending us even further out of control
• Won't bring home defeated troops
C'mon people, we all know that these are just puppets. Always have been, always will be. Just because Obama is articulate does not mean he will be any better at running this country than McCain. |
| B2B, CA |
|
|
JOSH FOUND THIS HELPFUL
|
| 17:40 October 15 |
People think McCain is George Bush. Well, he's not! People in the same family are vastly different and we're talking about a political party here. So let's lose all our biases and think of the issues with a clear head.
. |
| Derrick, IL |
| 17:21 October 15 |
| John McCain will end the war in Iraq with victory and bring our troops home with honor. John McCain hates war. And he knows very personally how terrible its costs are. But he knows, too, that the course of immediate withdrawal in Iraq could draw us into a wider war with even greater sacrifices. I want a president who has been there and knows how to make the tough decisions. McCain will serve as president with honor and is a great American. |
| D. Hammond, VA |
|
|
JOSH FOUND THIS HELPFUL
|
| 16:46 October 15 |
| John McCain has a strong record of working across the aisle to reform how business is done in Washington. He also has experience. Ummm...how long has Obama been a senator???? Come on. Plus if you want to be taxed, vote for the other guy... |
| Chris, OH |
|
|
JOSH FOUND THIS HELPFUL
|
| 16:45 October 15 |
| NOBAMA!!!!!! |
| Gail, MA |
|
|
Clever, but doesn't help much -Josh Gross
|
| 16:44 October 15 |
| Fuuuuuuuuuck McCain |
| Julian, CA |
|
|
JOSH FOUND THIS UNHELPFUL
|
|
|
JOSH FOUND THIS UNHELPFUL Can you be more specific? -Josh Gross
|
| 16:37 October 15 |
| Respect your elders. |
| Munchie, CA |
| 16:31 October 15 |
| I want a president who farts dust! |
| Abe, MS |
|
|
JOSH FOUND THIS UNHELPFUL
|
| 15:27 October 15 |
| I think you need to understand the real issue here is that many people are just biased because Obama is new. People just want novelty, but you have to understand novelty doesn't win wars! |
| Jerr, AZ |
| 15:23 October 15 |
| Dear Josh, McCain is a true American and he has the pulse on the American people. Why would you want to vote for a foreigner? |
| Stripes and Stars, DE |
|
|
JOSH FOUND THIS UNHELPFUL This is America. We're a country made up entirely of "foreigners." -Josh Gross
|
|
|
 |
|
 |
| |
