Thinking Right

By Shane

September 26, 2008 10:59 PM | Link to this

McCain used too many anectdotes and stories of the past. He was supposed to confront the future, and I don’t think he did that too well. I really don’t like how his main concern was that he “didn’t want to lose a war” - that’s a pretty bad reason to take lives and use military force.

By Scott Crow

September 26, 2008 11:00 PM | Link to this

McCain was OK and Obama didn’t put his foot in his mouth, but nothing that helped me learn more about either candidates. The question I have is this the best America has? I hope not.

By Christa

September 26, 2008 11:00 PM | Link to this

I’m not sure what debate you saw, but the one that was on clearly showed that Senator Obama was clear and consistent with his points. Yes, McCain is “seasoned” but maybe a little “overcooked” and “too salty”

By Ted Striker

September 26, 2008 11:00 PM | Link to this

Did we watch the same debate, Mr. Wooten?

By jp

September 26, 2008 11:00 PM | Link to this

you must have watched something else. I just saw two losers. I’m really thinking I’m voting for Obama just to restructure the whole Republican party which is just a mess.

By Out of Touch

September 26, 2008 11:02 PM | Link to this

He may have experience but the man is totally out of touch with what the American people want to see. Yes, he can talk military (so can I since I served in the first gulf war and wasn’t captured)but he does not understand the economy in the slightest since. Stayed on message, oh please.

By JustSaying

September 26, 2008 11:03 PM | Link to this

John’s right. John’s right. John’s right. John’s right. John’s right. John’s right. John’s right. John’s right.

Pretty much sums up Obama’s points tonight.

By Huckleberry

September 26, 2008 11:03 PM | Link to this

I missed the debate, just wanted to say Thank You for writing the Friday night post-debate column.

By stephen

September 26, 2008 11:05 PM | Link to this

McCain lost any small piece of respect for him I had left when he played games with participating in the debate. He never had intentions of missing it. And as for acting like he was saving the day at the White House, the reports are he didnt even contribute anything to the meeting.

Republicans, you’re either very forgiving or easily satisfied when it comes to asking for another term of this crap.

By Commander Guy

September 26, 2008 11:07 PM | Link to this

I have to agree with Jim. McCain won this one on points. Once the economic discussion was over (in which McCain seemed disinterested and utterly at sea), Obama was forced to play defense. McCain’s clever parroting of “he just doesn’t understand” was effective, until it became overdone and made McCain look like a cranky old man. And even with the win, McCain came off looking like a bit of an a55hole.

Still, a clear win for McCain. Congrats, wingnuts.

But was it enough? After the worst week I’ve ever seen a prez campaign endure (and I’ve suffered through Dukakis for crissakes, so I know cr@ptacular), McCain managed to stop the bleeding with a solid performance. But it was not the knockout he needed to really turn things around.

Overall, not a game changer. And next up is Simple Sarah.

By Ted Striker

September 26, 2008 11:07 PM | Link to this

Senator McCain criticized the expenditure of a study on bear DNA (calling it possibily a criminal offense) yet his own running mate from Alaska requested money for the study of harbor seal DNA.

Must be a land versus sea issue

By Captain Freedom

September 26, 2008 11:12 PM | Link to this

THE Captain returns from his double super secret mission to save the economy, and having successfully almost achieved His stated goal, is now back to share with His legions the fruits of his experience via the Internet tubes.

First off, let THE Captain say that nothing could be farther from the truth than to say that Johnny Maverick distracted the assembled grandees from their stated purpose of funding a massive bailout of the guys who ran the no longer in existence investment banks onto the rocks. Because aside from a smattering of applause from some Capitol tourists who were shocked to see that the Johnny Maverick they see on TV was actually a remnant of a flesh and blood human being (and not some poorly programmed animatronic reject from an unfinished Golden Girls theatrical release), nobody there paid him any attention whatsoever.

In fact, Our Leader told St John to “wipe that damn smirk off your face, gimpy, or I’ll have Laura cut off Cindy’s Xanax supply” every time he had a chance; Our Leader seemed to revel in humiliating St John, much like a dog trainer enjoys smearing a dog’s nose in its own feces. Other than that, everyone except Lieberman and Lindsay Graham avoided the old guy like a tranny with crabs.

Now this was quite the shocker to THE Captain, who had long assumed that Johnny Maverick drew the same level of blind adoration in DC as he does from folks like Wooten and Dusty. Imagine His surprise when THE Captain saw GOP senators and reps scurry like cockroaches in the light whenever the McCain posse rolled through the hallways. Consider, if you will, THE Captain’s shock at hearing the sniggers of derision and at seeing Sam Brownback walking like Frankenstein’s monster as he mocked McCain’s rictus-like arm waving. It was as if scales had fallen from THE Captain’s eyes.

And this led THE Captain to begin to question his faith in St John of Hanoi to serve as a suitable successor for Our Leader and as placeholder in The House of Bush until such time as the Dauphins Jeb and Neil can take their rightful places. THE Captain, needing spiritual succor, fell to bended knee in the Senate men’s room, and once He finished off Larry Craig, got down to some serious prayifying.

Dear Lord saith THE Capatin. Prithee give THE Captain strength to know thine will, and give unto Him a sign that thee approves of Johnny Maverick to googla bandoweena positron knick knack paddywhack ongla partito quod licet bovi.

Amen. (THE Captain says amen extra loud so people know He has been praying super duper hard. He also scrinches his eyes real tight while He prays to show how hard He is prayin. It also helps block out the sight of Larry Craig coming back for more.)

And thus lo and verily came upon THE Captain a sticky spray of faith and understanding. Knowing full well that Our Leader’s greatest gift lay in scaring the bejeebers out of Our Sinful Nation so that he might impose the Will of Cheney, THE Captain saw that St John is indeed the Man of the Hour. For while he lacks the subtle gift of finding just that pressure point that will make America dirty Our Knickers and playing it like a cheap violin, St John has that rare gift of combustive and irrational volatility and shallow intellect that should scare the living cr@p out of any human being within shouting range. And thus shall We be kept in the warm, loving embrace of the Fatherland that will protect us from all enemies, foreign and domestic. Even from Ourselves.

So saith THE Captain, and it is very true.

By gizmo

September 26, 2008 11:18 PM | Link to this

Mr. Wooten,

Mccain couldn’t even manage to pick a competent Vice-Presidential candidate. And we’re supposed to believe he can handle bigger decisions?

This is a guy that voted to support GW Bush 95% of the time. No debate performance can erase that sorry record.

By DJ

September 26, 2008 11:24 PM | Link to this

Gosh - Jim Wooten cheer-leading for John McSame and bashing Obama. How much time does it take you to write this stuff, Jim? Five minutes? It’s not like you have to think about it much: “support the republican, bash the democrat”. How does someone get a job like that? It can’t require much work or experience. Beyond carrying water for any right wing sycophant within earshot, anyway. Is this your idea of “fair and balanced”?? Writing basically the same swill column after column after column? Why don’t you just say “ditto” and save a tree.

By Jim is the uber shill

September 26, 2008 11:26 PM | Link to this

Nobody and I mean, nobody, “stays on message” like Jimbo on McCain. If McCain was caught in a w******* with a fistful of fifties, we could count on Jimbo to brag about McCain’s “crossover appeal to women” and his “ability to relate to the working class.”

I’m looking forward to Jimbo’s story making it to Broadway: Jimbo Christ, UberShill.

Sing it with me!

Jimbo Christ, Uber Shill

Credibility of a three dollar bill

Jimbo Christ, Uber Shill

Palin is his personal “little blue pill”

By dave

September 26, 2008 11:29 PM | Link to this

Damn Jim this place is crawling with “progressive” too bad them didn’t watch the same debate we did or the folks in PA and MI did… bend over and kiss your butt’s goodbye boys

By zone1atl

September 26, 2008 11:30 PM | Link to this

Man please! Never trust anyone that can’t even look you in the eye. McCain is not to be trusted.

By JW

September 26, 2008 11:30 PM | Link to this

Just because you say it a number of times doesn’t make it so. If John is saying we should vote for him because he is old, he’s in big trouble. Decade old stories may play well around the fireplace, but I am more interested in where we are going than where we have been.

By @@

September 26, 2008 11:30 PM | Link to this

And Jim, when OBlahMa would let it go, the smile of satisfaction on McCain’s face, once again, proved that the surge strategy is and was a success.

The smirks on OBlahMa’s face indicated frustration.

It’ll be interesting to see how the bailout plan goes. If the Republicans are successful in getting the taxpayers off the hook, McCain will go into the next debate wearing a longhorns.

By Emily

September 26, 2008 11:35 PM | Link to this

I disagree with your assessment that McCain was the winner of the debate, Wooten. McCain kept repeating his talking points throughout, no matter what the question was. He was somewhat contemptuous towards Obama, he wouldn’t even look at him, let alone speak directly to him. McCain did add some comedy to the debate, though…like when he said he would take care of the veterans. What a joke! McCain voted AGAINST assistance for war veterans. He spit in the face of every war veteran in America! McCain is a joke! The funniest part was when he said he picked a “great partner” in Palin. LMAO!!!!

By carlos nieto

September 26, 2008 11:40 PM | Link to this

The american media what a poor sad country FREEDOM?Where?your comment is like mexican bias newspaper

By Ginna

September 26, 2008 11:42 PM | Link to this

Did we watch the same debate? I’m a Republican and I really thought Obama was the clear winner. Not that John made too many gaffes. He totally messed up the names of a couple of foreign leaders. And he really opened himself up for attack by chiding Obama about making sensitive remarks (going into Pakistan after Bin Ladin) when he himself sang about bombing Iran to a popular Beach Boys song. Obama looked strong and decisive—McCain looked sheepish. Another area I think Obama won HANDS DOWN was staying focused on the question. McCain seemed to veer off to get in his talking points. And I think Obama appealed more to independents by appearing to reach across party lines and recognize where he agreed with McCain. McCain, on the other hand, just seemed to attack and came off condescending. I was watching the independent tracking line on CNN and EVERYTIME Obama reached across to McCain they went up and EVERYTIME either candidate attacked each other they went down.

By calvin

September 26, 2008 11:46 PM | Link to this

Imagine that! You thought John(I am a POW) McCain won. I guess we watched a different debate. Pakistan is a failed state? McCain is finally admitting that we have been torturing prisoners? After all of the Republicabn denials thus far-including McCain and Bush and you???

By swolf4810

September 26, 2008 11:48 PM | Link to this

Gimme a break Woot… suddenly deciding not to let either your opponent NOR the moderator get a word in edgewise is a sure sign of thinking you’re losing!

By calvin

September 26, 2008 11:49 PM | Link to this

Imagine that! You thought John(I am a POW) McCain won. I guess we watched a different debate. Pakistan is a failed state? McCain is finally admitting that we have been torturing prisoners? After all of the Republicabn denials thus far-including McCain and Bush and you???

By Emily

September 26, 2008 11:50 PM | Link to this

Actually, I disagree with your entire column, but that goes without saying.

By calvin

September 26, 2008 11:51 PM | Link to this

Imagine that! You thought John(I am a POW) McCain won. I guess we watched a different debate. Pakistan is a failed state? McCain is finally admitting that we have been torturing prisoners? After all of the Republicabn denials thus far-including McCain and Bush and you???

By Elephant Whip

September 26, 2008 11:54 PM | Link to this

On the initial economic questions, Obama had specific objectives which he expressed clearly. Neither candidate could comment upon the substance of the bailout because it has not been revealed. But John McCain blew nothing but hot air on that issue with zero plans

As for the foreign policy questions, Obama had agendas, whereas McCain expressed anecdotes and travel tips. He failed to answer to Obama’s assertion that, although the surge APPEARS to have worked (nevermind bribing insurgents with our tax money), it has only worked for the last few months in a war that was an overall mistake and failure from the get-go. Unless the US plans on perpetual occupation (which McCain has endorsed before), then Iraq is going to break into three countries and merge with Saudi Arabia on one side and Iraq on the other, while the Kurds create a state free from both the Sunnis, the Shiites, and the Turks; this will happen regardless when we leave.

By swolf4810

September 26, 2008 11:58 PM | Link to this

Bottom line……after whatever it is we have to do to bail out our finacial situation…….THERE WON’T BE NO SUCH THINGS AS TAX CUTS FOR ANYBODY!

By Concerned Kyle

September 26, 2008 11:59 PM | Link to this

Both made good arguments for certain things - both were actually just saying whatever they thought would help them get elected - NOT what they really think, not what they are really going to do -

Obama is going to try and punish hard-workers and entrepreneurs in this country by taking what they worked their tales off for and giving to fat, lazy, lounge-abouts who will vote for anyone who tells them that everything that is wrong in their lives is someone elses fault - but vote for me and I will fix it for you; he is going to GUT our military and our defense; he will punish all that disagree with his socialistic view of the world, and he will aid Russia, China, and the middle east in achieving their goals of turning us into a nation that no longer matters —- but hey, he looks good on TV, and he has a mean jump shot, so by all means, he is ready

By Zack

September 27, 2008 12:03 AM | Link to this

I consider myself a “progressive” but I agree that McCain won. Paradoxically Obama is a suberb orator but usually not great in debates. Tonight was no exception. On the economy, Obama should have had a field day but he really didn’t. If I had to be honest, I’d say that despite the clear advantages Obama has as a Democrat over the Republican whose party screwed up everything, McCain actually won or at least broke even on the economy portion of the debate. It surprised me, but McCain managed to stay on offense more - namely by continuing to refer to the earmarks. What I think many of my fellow Obama supporters are missing on this is that they already AGREE with Obama about the economy so they are unable to watch the debate objectively - as the undecideds do. Ojectively speaking Obama didn’t outpoint McCain on the economy issues. On the foriegn policy part, McCain won handily. Obama had a few strong moments but overall I think this debate will play out as a clear victory for McCain. I expect to see a slight bounce for him in the polls - which is absurd given the present landscape. One thing I’d bet on is that McCain’s team will get a lot of mileage out of the “I agree with John…” thing Obama prefaced many of his rebutalls with. Obama is a nice person. It’s a trump card for him in most respects. But in debates, he’s got to learn - and soon - how to go for the throat without losing his likability. It’s a thin line to walk but an important one. I think the younger guy got outplayed tonight. My only criticism of McCain was I think he used the “Obama just doesn’t understand…” thing exactly one too many times. It got shrill. And one last point: I can’t put my finger on it, but I think Obama got screwed somehow with the layout of the stage. He made the mistake of looking over at McCain alot, which to my eyes gave McCain an air of superiority. But in addition to that, there was something about the way the angles were shot that seemed to give McCain an unfair advantage. Maybe I’m crazy.

By sophie brown

September 27, 2008 12:28 AM | Link to this

I don’t think McCain showed the value of expeience, I think he showed his experience is just a bunch of antecdotes. So he’s seen the terrain in Pakistan. Is that really a reason to vote for him? So world leaders know him. Is that a reason to vote for him, when we know that most world leaders are hoping and praying Obama is elected? How about “I looked in Putin’s eyes and saw KGB.” Is that really the experience we need for the 21st century? No way, no how.

By Mr Snarky

September 27, 2008 12:51 AM | Link to this

McCain left me with that “When in doubt, let’s invade” impression that’s pretty scary. The debate was notable for its lack of gotcha lines. I did like where Obama pointed out that McCain acts like the Iraq War started in 07. Seems like most pundits are calling it a tie…which is really a win for Obama, since this would be the one area where McCain has an advantage. On domestic issues I expect Barack will clean John’s clock.

By Georgia Girl

September 27, 2008 1:02 AM | Link to this

I disagree. I dont think McCain won. He appeared shrilled, rude, and contemptious. I also think if McCain’s foreign policy experience is his strong suit, it sure looks like Obama held his own. He was making several errors (i.e., the state of Pakiston, Spain). He continously indicated that “he didnt understand.” however, when it was time to debate he spoke fluently, intelligently, and challenged him on his own turf. What a win for the Obama Camp.

By Babs

September 27, 2008 1:02 AM | Link to this

This debate for me was the epitome of why, even though I am a Democrat, I will vote for McCain in November. Barack Obama is a churlish, petulant man-child, never so much on display as tonight with his constantly making faces, shaking his finger, and constantly interrupting McCain. John McCain is a leader and the man I trust to get my country back on track.

By Georgia Girl

September 27, 2008 1:03 AM | Link to this

I disagree. I dont think McCain won. He appeared shrilled, rude, and contemptious. I also think if McCain’s foreign policy experience is his strong suit, it sure looks like Obama held his own. He was making several errors (i.e., the state of Pakiston, Spain). He continously indicated that “he didnt understand.” however, when it was time to debate he spoke fluently, intelligently, and challenged him on his own turf. What a win for the Obama Camp.

By Georgia Girl

September 27, 2008 1:03 AM | Link to this

I disagree. I dont think McCain won. He appeared shrilled, rude, and contemptious. I also think if McCain’s foreign policy experience is his strong suit, it sure looks like Obama held his own. He was making several errors (i.e., the state of Pakiston, Spain). He continously indicated that “he didnt understand.” however, when it was time to debate he spoke fluently, intelligently, and challenged him on his own turf. What a win for the Obama Camp.

By IslandGirl

September 27, 2008 1:05 AM | Link to this

John McCain did not do an excellent job with this debate. The discussion on foreign policy and national security should be areas of his expertise…and should have been a playing field for him. Barack stood up well to his contentions and showed America that McCain’s agenda will continue in the same fashion as our current administration. McCain failed to prove that his experience should be the main reason to vote for him. What I saw was in John McCain was a noble American that needs to retire.

By UGA75

September 27, 2008 1:24 AM | Link to this

I dislike both candidates, and will likely stay at home this election. I could have voted for Hilary because she is smart and seasoned. She was the best candidate from either party. How anyone can support Obama is a mystery to me? His experience for the hardest job in the world is less than a single term as a Senator. Electing Obama is like giving the keys to the family car to a 12 year old, the 12 year old could start the car, maybe get it out the driveway, but if the roads were icy or a car was coming at him/her on the wrong side of the road what would they do.

McCain has forgotten more critical information than Obama has learned. The important part of that statement is McCain has forgotten critical information. 8 years ago McCain was the better candidate than Bush.

Being totally objective, the old stud was better overall and won tonights debate. I still wouldn’t vote for him, so my opinion really doesn’t matter much. Sitting here thinking about everything, I believe McCain makes me feel a little safer than does Obama. If I did decide to vote, that would be the deciding factor.

By Never Again

September 27, 2008 1:27 AM | Link to this

Magic Decoder …

No Meltdown = “Disciplined” No Message = “On-message” Old + Tired = “Seasoned”

Jim, does McCain’s ability to repeat ad nasea “Obama doesn’t understand” a convincing arguement to vote for him?

You must be joking. McCain was supposed to dominate this debate based on his so-called Foreign Policy experience and came off as an adle-brained lightweight instead.

Pakistian was a “failed state” before Mushariff’s coup replaced an elected government with a military dictatorship?

Perhaps in McCain’s political calculus a for-rend dictator who plays both sides with his hand out to the highest bidder and eyes averted as his security forces arm and train Taliban is savy politics, but I’d say Mush played the Bush as a sucker and it cost a lot of American lives.

Am I mistaken Jim?

By ed

September 27, 2008 1:33 AM | Link to this

You apparently didn’t see the same debate I did.

By The Democrats

September 27, 2008 1:35 AM | Link to this

ATTENTION REPUBLICANS: RE: SARAH PALIN

Obviously there has been a HUGE mistake…..

Palin’s Dribble, Weasel Wording, Mush-Mush, Asssss-Backwards speak Cleary demonstrates who carries the Down Syndrome trait in her family, because of this we (the democrats) will allow you to send her back to Wacky-silla without prejudice and select another candidate.

For this consideration the Republicans agree to sell Alaska to Russia (with Palin) and never mention the State of Alaska or her again.

By The Democrats

September 27, 2008 1:37 AM | Link to this

ATTENTION REPUBLICANS: RE: SARAH PALIN

Obviously there has been a HUGE mistake…..

Palin’s Dribble, Weasel Wording, Mush-Mush, Asssss-Backwards speak Cleary demonstrates who carries the Down Syndrome trait in her family, because of this we (the democrats) will allow you to send her back to Wacky-silla without prejudice and select another candidate.

For this consideration the Republicans agree to sell Alaska to Russia (with Palin) and never mention the State of Alaska or her again.

By The Democrats

September 27, 2008 1:37 AM | Link to this

ATTENTION REPUBLICANS: RE: SARAH PALIN

Obviously there has been a HUGE mistake…..

Palin’s Dribble, Weasel Wording, Mush-Mush, Asssss-Backwards speak Cleary demonstrates who carries the Down Syndrome trait in her family, because of this we (the democrats) will allow you to send her back to Wacky-silla without prejudice and select another candidate.

For this consideration the Republicans agree to sell Alaska to Russia (with Palin) and never mention the State of Alaska or her again.

By The Democrats

September 27, 2008 1:39 AM | Link to this

ATTENTION REPUBLICANS: RE: SARAH PALIN

Obviously there has been a HUGE mistake…..

Palin’s Dribble, Weasel Wording, Mush-Mush, Asssss-Backwards speak Cleary demonstrates who carries the Down Syndrome trait in her family, because of this we (the democrats) will allow you to send her back to Wacky-silla without prejudice and select another candidate.

For this consideration the Republicans agree to sell Alaska to Russia (with Palin) and never mention the State of Alaska or her again.

By Mary

September 27, 2008 1:46 AM | Link to this

Mc Cain showed that he was more knowledgeable about foreign policy, and that is vital. We know the past must be revisited in order for us to avoid making mistakes in the future. Obama responded well in some respect but just didn’t have the experience and background to back it up. Obama needs to get at least the next four years in the Congress showing he is not “present” but has a “presence” in learning the ropes. Come back in 4 years with some experience and try again for president. Just like Palin is not as experienced as Biden and needs the time to season so does Obama. The difference is she is not running for president. She may never need to step in as president. If she does, there will be support for her. Two good men debated tonight but Mc Cain was the best.

By Redneck Convert

September 27, 2008 2:52 AM | Link to this

Well, it’s just a pity the Vietnam commies messed up old man McCain’s neck so bad he couldn’t turn and look at Obama all night.

By the time it was all over McCain reminded me of a crazy uncle you have to talk nice to in order to keep him from going off on you. I decided I didn’t want that man even in the same country as the A-bomb button. He was grouchy and mad and touchy. I guess I’d better take a closer look at Bob Barr now.

I’m having trouble getting any sleep after thinking about poor Captain Freedom in a room with the godly Sen. Craig and then being chased by him. I wish he hadn’t of wrote that. There’s some things you just don’t reveal about yourself in polite company.

Good night everybody.

By Lisa

September 27, 2008 4:39 AM | Link to this

For almost 9 months, I have been planning to vote for Obama. He seemed fresh and honest. Tonight, in watching him answer questions in the debate, I realized that he doesn’t really have a message. He has been promising change, but tonight I saw that he practices that same old double-talk that most politicians practice.

McCain, who I don’t like, seemed like a leader. I felt much more confidence in his answers.

I changed my vote tonight. Reluctantly, I will be voting for McCain.

By myra

September 27, 2008 5:46 AM | Link to this

good night Lisa. I hope you sleep through the elections.

By Political Foreskin

September 27, 2008 6:00 AM | Link to this

So Lisa’s pregnant chad vote gestated with Obama for nine months and last night her water broke over McCain? She must have given birth to a bouncing baby diebold…..

ew

By Harris

September 27, 2008 6:05 AM | Link to this

“Attention Democrats” are you a complete idiot? What part of “please wait” don’t you understand? Pushing the post button four times won’t make your piece any more interesting.

By yankee

September 27, 2008 8:19 AM | Link to this

Any post that begins with “I’m a Dem. or I’m a Rep. but” needs to be deleted. Anything after that is sure to be BS.

By Manny

September 27, 2008 8:28 AM | Link to this

No clear-cut winner. But who accomplished what they wanted to accomplish?

With McCain, everyone knows that he has far, far superior experience than most people. When he said that he made some decision in 1983, I was laughing, because I was thinking back as to what I was doing back in 1983. (trying to pass the 8th grade and asking my mom for a “Beat-It” jacket for Christmas.)

But McCain wanted to show the American people that he has strong judgment, leadership, knowledge, and temperament to be President.

Judgment- Obama poked enough holes to make that suspect. Leadership- McCain has done enough to poke holes in that himself, but did help himself a little while talking about the Surge. Knowledge- McCain did a great job and was impressive. Temperament- Failed miserably, and he lost some Independents as a result.

Meanwhile, Obama had one goal in mind entering into that debate: He wanted the American public to get comfortable with him and to actually see him as Presidential. With that, I can say that he passed.

Obama showed great command of subjects, deference, poise, grace, and some toughness. He’s a counter-puncher. And by what you’re seeing in the snap polls, that style and substance made more people feel comfortable seeing him as President. And made more people, once again according to the snap polls, see Obama as the winner.

For me, though, I saw it as a draw. But a draw helps Obama because foreign policy was supposed to be his weakness. And it seems like Obama purposely didn’t want to expand the debate with the economy, which would have tipped his hand with how he would argue at the next debate. So I think Obama settled for a draw.

By jose

September 27, 2008 9:09 AM | Link to this

“ Obama gets The McCain beat down in debate”

No doubt Obama camp is happy they kept lowering expectations for his debate performance because Obama got his clock cleaned by John McCain who kept the young inexperienced candidate looking immature and childish talking in circles. All Obama could do was interrupt with bogus claims of “lying” and looks of frustration and despair. (Not a good performer, unless someone writes a pre-written speech for Obama to study or read on teleprompter) On Iraq and all else, Obama keeps looking to the past instead of the future? Where’s the change Obama? McCain understands the next president has to look to the future and secure not only victory but also stabilizing a fledgling democracy. Obama kept up his all season stupid rhetoric, the war was wrong, the war is wrong, I’m black that makes me qualified to be president!

Especially since he stupidly picked 30 years in Washington, pro war supporter Biden (whose son is a lobbyist) as VP. Slapping the face of 18 million democratic voters, who David Axelrod said he don’t need. Again proves Obama is unstable and does not have the experience to make important decisions or have control over this great country.

Obama said seven times or more that he agreed with McCain. That’s good for McCain because when McCain is President Obama can work with him to get needed reforms through a failed Congress. McCain displayed a thorough knowledge of world affairs. Obama did not! And talked in circles and really had no coherent thoughts other than his main talking points from his pre-written campaign speech.

Bottom line; Obama got “ The McCain beat down” only because of the lowered expectations Obama just barely got across the finish line. Obama definitely finished dead last. No surprise we all know Obama is not good on his feet, as Hillary wiped the floor with him 20 plus times! Bottom line McCain had a great night while Obama is going home licking his wounds. Of course you can expect to hear the tabloid cable news , better known as Obama News Networks CNN & MSNBC media made fairy tales, that he was great, too bad for CNN that voters finally realized these two Obama news networks are not very truthful and bias. They offer voters looking for facts…NOTHING…

By jose

September 27, 2008 9:12 AM | Link to this

“ Obama gets The McCain beat down in debate”

No doubt Obama camp is happy they kept lowering expectations for his debate performance because Obama got his clock cleaned by John McCain who kept the young inexperienced candidate looking immature and childish talking in circles. All Obama could do was interrupt with bogus claims of “lying” and looks of frustration and despair. (Not a good performer, unless someone writes a pre-written speech for Obama to study or read on teleprompter) On Iraq and all else, Obama keeps looking to the past instead of the future? Where’s the change Obama? McCain understands the next president has to look to the future and secure not only victory but also stabilizing a fledgling democracy. Obama kept up his all season stupid rhetoric, the war was wrong, the war is wrong, I’m black that makes me qualified to be president!

Especially since he stupidly picked 30 years in Washington, pro war supporter Biden (whose son is a lobbyist) as VP. Slapping the face of 18 million democratic voters, who David Axelrod said he don’t need. Again proves Obama is unstable and does not have the experience to make important decisions or have control over this great country.

Obama said seven times or more that he agreed with McCain. That’s good for McCain because when McCain is President Obama can work with him to get needed reforms through a failed Congress. McCain displayed a thorough knowledge of world affairs. Obama did not! And talked in circles and really had no coherent thoughts other than his main talking points from his pre-written campaign speech.

Bottom line; Obama got “ The McCain beat down” only because of the lowered expectations Obama just barely got across the finish line. Obama definitely finished dead last. No surprise we all know Obama is not good on his feet, as Hillary wiped the floor with him 20 plus times! Bottom line McCain had a great night while Obama is going home licking his wounds. Of course you can expect to hear the tabloid cable news , better known as Obama News Networks CNN & MSNBC media made fairy tales, that he was great, too bad for CNN that voters finally realized these two Obama news networks are not very truthful and bias. They offer voters looking for facts…NOTHING…

By jose

September 27, 2008 9:12 AM | Link to this

“ Obama gets The McCain beat down in debate”

No doubt Obama camp is happy they kept lowering expectations for his debate performance because Obama got his clock cleaned by John McCain who kept the young inexperienced candidate looking immature and childish talking in circles. All Obama could do was interrupt with bogus claims of “lying” and looks of frustration and despair. (Not a good performer, unless someone writes a pre-written speech for Obama to study or read on teleprompter) On Iraq and all else, Obama keeps looking to the past instead of the future? Where’s the change Obama? McCain understands the next president has to look to the future and secure not only victory but also stabilizing a fledgling democracy. Obama kept up his all season stupid rhetoric, the war was wrong, the war is wrong, I’m black that makes me qualified to be president!

Especially since he stupidly picked 30 years in Washington, pro war supporter Biden (whose son is a lobbyist) as VP. Slapping the face of 18 million democratic voters, who David Axelrod said he don’t need. Again proves Obama is unstable and does not have the experience to make important decisions or have control over this great country.

Obama said seven times or more that he agreed with McCain. That’s good for McCain because when McCain is President Obama can work with him to get needed reforms through a failed Congress. McCain displayed a thorough knowledge of world affairs. Obama did not! And talked in circles and really had no coherent thoughts other than his main talking points from his pre-written campaign speech.

Bottom line; Obama got “ The McCain beat down” only because of the lowered expectations Obama just barely got across the finish line. Obama definitely finished dead last. No surprise we all know Obama is not good on his feet, as Hillary wiped the floor with him 20 plus times! Bottom line McCain had a great night while Obama is going home licking his wounds. Of course you can expect to hear the tabloid cable news , better known as Obama News Networks CNN & MSNBC media made fairy tales, that he was great, too bad for CNN that voters finally realized these two Obama news networks are not very truthful and bias. They offer voters looking for facts…NOTHING…

By getalife

September 27, 2008 9:26 AM | Link to this

Lame.

Stump speech rhetoric with each bashing the other’s positions.

John gets mad about his voting record but it is there to see if you bother to look.

Losers, you and me.

The bailout will pass, the lobbyists will continue to run Washington with business as usual.

By Jason

September 27, 2008 9:28 AM | Link to this

Jim, you are so far off base, it almost looks silly. Not only for your seeming out of touch conclusion of the debate (this article), but as per the poll of the very readers of this newspaper via ajc.com who voted 70% to 30% that Obama seemed to be the victorious candidate in the debate. Are you this out of touch, or just hoping minutiae like this article can actually help your fellow old boy to win this election?

Get real.

By BarneyStrickland

September 27, 2008 9:31 AM | Link to this

I’m always suprised that a fish wrapper like the AJC has Jim Wooten on it’s OP ED staff. Good guy, but I thought this debate was a toss up with Mccain showing why you go with the man who is ready for the job. I thought it was interesting when Obama tried to defend his plans to sit down witht he leader of Iran without pre-conditions. He attempted to invoke the name of Dr. Henry Kissinger and McCain said “I’ve know Henry for 35 years” and “He never said that” …. and he was right, Kissinger never did. The election will be close but America will go with the safe choice of John McCain. Also, has anyone seen how D-U-M-B Senator Biden is ? I know Sarah Palin is no Dr. Kissinger but I lived in Deleware for 3 years and now the rest of the country will see why the rest of the Democratic senate leadership refers to him as “not the sharpest tool in the shed”. Nobody changed their mind with this debate…. especially those who subscribe to this crappy, far left rag. God save the republic from this tax and spend liberal !! John Mcain isn’t pefect, but at least we know who he is and what he will do !! Never send a boy (Obama) to do a man’s (McCain) job.

By JD

September 27, 2008 9:58 AM | Link to this

I know I cannot change Jim Wooten’s mind on either who to vote for or who did a better job in the debate. Unfortunately there is a hard core of supporters for each side that see the presidential race through their own life experiences. One of my major concerns is John McCain’s refusal to release ALL of his medical records. Being a survivor of skin cancer on at least two occasions leaves serious doubts about his current health which emphasizes his pick for a running mate of a person so obviously not prepared to step into the office. She would then be guided by either the old guard Republican Party like Dubya was in his early term (Cheney, Rumsfeld, etc.) or go her own way which is terrifying.

By Still Waiting

September 27, 2008 10:08 AM | Link to this

I’m STILL waiting to hear what “change” Obama is going to bring to us, other than the fact that change is all we will have in our pockets. All of you who are voting for race need to read up on the candidates. The only thing Obama is going to do is raise taxes. If that’s what you want then, by all means, vote race. (And fyi, he is NOT black. He is bi-racial. I want to know why he doesn’t embrace his white culture as strongly as he does his black. But then I can answer that…it’s for the black vote.)

By Stuart

September 27, 2008 10:12 AM | Link to this

Interesting analysis, Jim. Maybe next time, you can analyze the debate the rest of us watched. But to be fair, I’m sure had McCain thrown up, pooped his drawers and said Spain was part of New Mexico you would have drawn the same conclusions.

By Eleanor

September 27, 2008 10:19 AM | Link to this

Mr. Wooten - all John McCain did was show his overbearing obnoxious arrogance and show that he is just another W with a different name. But your support of him is expected because your arrogance in claiming to know everything is as bad as the arrogance of Bush, Cheney, McCain, Rove and the whole bunch that surrounds him.

By Baa, baa, baa

September 27, 2008 10:21 AM | Link to this

Morning Sheeple…did anyone else notice that Mr. Obama called both Asia and Africa (his fatherland) countries? All of this analysis of the detail, while missing the point. Obama brings a feel-good platform that will appeal to those that do not look for substance. McCain brings realistic substance. This country will be a challenging place for the next few years, no way around it sheeple. This vote will determine how long it will be so.

Also, how much will your tax cut help when your corporation lays you off due to their increased taxes. Dummies, the corporate tax base supports our country not the middle class tax base. The money has to come from somewhere. Do you seriously think that Obama can give you the pretty picture he suggests, while shutting down the machine?

Sheeeple, please!

By melis

September 27, 2008 10:41 AM | Link to this

I’m not sure what debate some of you where watching, or what station you were watching but looking at the barometer at the bottom of the screen clearly Obama won the Dem and Ind vote by far. McCain is 74 and looks to be tired of all the activities of this race. There is no way he’s going to be able to perform which is why he picked a much younger running mate. Only problem is she’s not experienced enough for the job. You have to realize if something happens to McCain we will be left with her running the country. Do you really want this?????? As I said before McCain is 74. Being President and actually doing your job will take a toll on your body.(Look at Clinton who actualy did a good job with the countries business). Look at pictures before he entered the white house and after. There is no way McCain’s body will withstand this, which will leave us with Palin. If this happens other countries will EAT US ALIVE!!!!! Obama has Biden.

By Dusty

September 27, 2008 10:55 AM | Link to this

Yes, McCain won this debate by being “presidential”. He looked it. His performance was presidential. His experienced views and knowledge were presidential.

Obama amade a fair performance as a neophyte with much knowledge memorized. He wasn’t “bad”, just not ready.

Even Captain Funky Freedom’s entertaining degenerate views could not change what we saw. (The Captain is such an entertainer. I thought I would mention him. So is RedNeck his alter ego.)

McCain came though with the flag and achievements. Obama came with movie star appeal and inexperience. I take the flag every time.

Next we get “the Woman America loves” with “Big Joker Biden”. Watching libs convulse will be more fun than the debate. Libs will knock themselves out making fools of themselves. Read here today for early examples.

By jm

September 27, 2008 10:56 AM | Link to this

McCain showed why he should have been President for the last 8 years. Instead, we got W the incompetent. However, it is clear that he is on the downside, with his best days in his rear view mirror. Obama, on the other hand has his best days in front of him. Given that choice, I will take the one on the way up, not the one on the way down.

By SayNo2McCain

September 27, 2008 11:02 AM | Link to this

McCain lost, plain and simple. He wouldn’t even look at Obama, when he criticized him. He kept citing Ronald Regan, as if that’s going to get us out of this mess. It’s obvious, that he doesn’t understand economics 101 and doesn’t understand the benefits of diplomacy.

I’m not impressed by McCain at all, he doesn’t understand the hardship of middle class america. Until last week, he didn’t believe in regulations. His trickle down effect policies are the same as Bush. He continues to spout lies about the Obama tax plan. He never said Obama was right about anything, which cleary shows his inability to acknowledge his own mistakes. He’ll never admitt to being part of the problem, eventhough it’s clear that he has been. Maybe he is a maverick in his own mind, because he doesn’t have much to show of it. I know not all of the Republican party agrees with his policies, but in my opinion he is just another Joe Liberman.

As for Obama, it’s great that he has the ability to admitt when McCain has been right. I wish that Obama would pushed a little harder at McCain, because he’s been in the Senate for all those years and should have been a more effective leader. Obama should have dug deeper into the war and how our government treat the soldiers when they return home and how the mortgage mess has affected them. Also, a lot of the soldiers are not going to have jobs when they return home and they will return home to higher food, gas and financial expenses. They will return home to devastated communities due to minimal financial aide to hurricane hit communities and foreclosed homes.

By ron

September 27, 2008 11:08 AM | Link to this

No winner,no loser.Game tied.

By jsap

September 27, 2008 11:08 AM | Link to this

When the GOP comes to DC, you hear calls for cutting and deregulating. They double the national debt, and lower our standing in the world. They leave calling for reregulation, and bailouts.

By Buster Caps

September 27, 2008 11:27 AM | Link to this

Why go to Iraq looking for WMD when we has “Weapons of financial Mass Destruction” (W.Buffet) on Wall St. And the hedge funds and investment banks that use them get tax breaks from “W.” Osama would vote for Bush! Vote for Change!

By Algonquin J. Calhoun

September 27, 2008 11:31 AM | Link to this

One of the most interesting things said by McCain was his promise that if he is elected the United States will no longer indulge in the torturing of prisoners. Why would he make this promise if the United States does not torture detainees? Bring Bush and Cheney before the bar of justice to answer for their crimes against humanity!

By ghostlike

September 27, 2008 11:38 AM | Link to this

There are two different McCains. The thoughtful, truthful Senator, and the tired old man on the campaign trail. The latter attended the debate, and said the same tired lines and “you don’t understand.” What makes me sad is that Rove and his mean politics twice denied a better Republican a shot at the white house before he got too old. Bush voters should be embarassed.

By Devastator

September 27, 2008 11:38 AM | Link to this

I’m willing to declare a draw in this one. Obama should refrain from saying that McCain is right so much next time.

Obama/Biden!!!

By Devastator

September 27, 2008 11:45 AM | Link to this

Millions of Americans finally got a chance to see us take on the fundamental choice in this election — the change we need or more of the same.

I will provide tax cuts for the middle class, affordable health care, and a new energy economy that creates millions of jobs. John McCain wants to keep giving huge tax cuts to corporations, and he offered no solutions for the challenges Americans are facing in their daily lives.

I will end the war in Iraq responsibly, focus on defeating al Qaeda and the Taliban, and restore America’s standing in the world after eight years of disastrous policies. John McCain wants an unending commitment in Iraq and fails to recognize the resurgent threat in Afghanistan.

Let’s be clear: John McCain is offering nothing but more of the same failed Bush policies at home and abroad that he has supported more than 90% of the time in the Senate.

Americans need change now, and I need your help to get the word out about this movement.

In the coming days, it’s going to be up to you to organize locally and reach the voters that are going to decide this election.

Now’s the time to make your voice heard.

Will you make a donation of $25 or more right now to support this campaign for change?

https://donate.barackobama.com/thedebate

Thank you for all that you’re doing,

Barack

By holyroller

September 27, 2008 11:49 AM | Link to this

is McCain a snake? i think so. his tongue darted out rapidly last night repeatedly. very disturbing. then again, maybe his dentures were loose.

By Algonquin J. Calhoun

September 27, 2008 12:29 PM | Link to this

Dusty, McLame looked only slightly more animated than Stalin does now.

By Thespis

September 27, 2008 12:30 PM | Link to this

It’s sad when a person with the intelligence of Jim Wooten sinks so far into partisan blindness that his objectivity is sacrificed on the alter of what he is “supposed to” say.

Anyone who watched the debate last night with any degree of objectivity could see that it was at best a push. No one got off any great “I knew John Kennedy…” moments, but both seemed to do what they set out to accomplish. John McCain did well on the subjects he was supposed to do well on, and the same can be said of Obama. In other words, they did what was expected of them. No advantage either side.

It is only the blind partisans on both sides that will crow, as the objectivity challenged Wooten does, that their guy “won.” It makes me happier than ever that Georgia is not a battleground State, which when viewed through the lenses of reality means that none of our opinions really matter. At least not as much as the retirees in Florida or the blue collar workers in Pennsylvania.

I know that Wooten is a opinion writer and therefore he is expected to write what he thinks. But when there appears to be no real analysis, when the opinions are set and NOTHING will ever change them, then perhaps its time to put away the pen and go fish. After all, even if Wooten didn’t write a word this morning, wouldn’t we all still know who he thought won the debate?

And that’s the really sad reality.

By Captain Freedom

September 27, 2008 12:46 PM | Link to this

THE Captain arrives to bestow two Captain Kudos on this glorious Saturday, which remains glorious despite the large shadow cast by Sister Dusty, whose very presence spurs grown men to weep at the injustice of cold and indifferent universe. But even in the face of such horrific Dustiness, THE Captain soldiers on.

First, a Captain Kudo to our host Jim, whose brilliant analysis and trenchant insight could hardly have been more so had it been written contemporaneously with the debate rather than several hours beforehand. That said, Wooten stayed up late enough to post after the debate to make it appear as a “you are there” moment in keeping with his Cronkitean self-image. Either that or he had his flunky hit the post button.

But a rare (for THE Captain fears that He might lessen His impact by bestowing a flood of kudos, much as Our Leader has done by operating the treasury printing presses overtime at the behest of his Chinese Overlords) and well-deserved second Captain Kudo goes to Johnny Maverick himself, whose stubborn refusal to even acknowledge the swaggering darkie standing beside him on stage last night was clear indication of his Presidential caliber. For if St John of Hanoi can just ignore the Negro problem for the next 4 years (or until Simple Sarah puts anti-freeze in his cream of wheat), perhaps it will just go away. Race problem solved.

Finally, a stern wag of THE Captain’s Flying Fickle Finger of Fate at Balckazoid Obamandingo. How dare that young buck look directly at his Caucasian betters the way he did at Mr Maverick? I think Rep Westmoreland was right on target. It was downright uppity.

So saith THE Captain, and it is very true.

By Jackie

September 27, 2008 12:56 PM | Link to this

John McCain and Sarah Palin continue to drop in the polls.

What new act do they bring to this traveling road-show?

Obama / Biden, electoral landslide on 2008!

By peter

September 27, 2008 12:56 PM | Link to this

By jsap

September 27, 2008 11:08 AM | Link to this

When the GOP comes to DC, you hear calls for cutting and deregulating. They double the national debt, and lower our standing in the world. They leave calling for reregulation, and bailouts.

TRUER WORD HAVE NEVER BE WRITTEN !

AND Please…….. let’s give the guys who screwed up Millions Please…….they are BUSH BUDDIES as well you know !

The treasury is not empty just yet !

By ME

September 27, 2008 1:06 PM | Link to this

I support Obama, but I can be objective about the debate last night. Who won the debate depends on what you were looking for. Obama held his ground while McCain pressed him non-stop on foreign policy. If McCain was going to break Obama, it was going to be in this debate. While it was clear to me that McCain had dealt with the foreign issues of the world a lot longer, Obama showed that he understands the issues, the strategy, and the major players in the various regions of the world. I think this debate was a draw.

By peter

September 27, 2008 1:16 PM | Link to this

Well funny Jim, but other thought your guy lost…….

BREAKING NEWS……..

FROM THE GA GOVERNORS OFFICE……

Tuesday this coming week…..all in Atlanta have been instructed to MARTA downtown to the Capitol…….

There will be a PRAYER MEETING FOR GAS !

By Sara

September 27, 2008 1:23 PM | Link to this

It was a tie, it wasn’t like either one of them did anything special. A lot of McCains attempts at his old funny self fell flat, and he didn’t look at Obama. Obama was way too nice… But effective in his own way.. Ultimately a way a tie is win for Obama as this is supposed to be McCains big specialty

By Sara

September 27, 2008 1:24 PM | Link to this

It was a tie, it wasn’t like either one of them did anything special. A lot of McCains attempts at his old funny self fell flat, and he didn’t look at Obama. Obama was way too nice… But effective in his own way.. Ultimately a tie is win for Obama as this is supposed to be McCains big specialty

By Goldy

September 27, 2008 1:41 PM | Link to this

I know we were watching the same debate but we certainly didn’t have the same reaction. I found Senator McCain’s continual refrain of “Senator Obama doesn’t understand” to be condescending. It’s obvious McCain personally does not like Obama - he wouldn’t even look at him. Talk about juvenile! He also seemed like his knee jerk reaction to every foreign policy issue would be to rattle the saber. This country needs someone with more judgment and an ability to see war as a last not a first choice. We certainly don’t need another President with a cowboy (or jet pilot) mentality.

By peter

September 27, 2008 1:52 PM | Link to this

Read what NPR or other publications say…..

McLost is LOST………ALL “DEPENDS”……..are an important part of the campaign “TRAIL”….

McCain: “that same strategy [IRAQ] will be applied in Afghanistan by this great general.”

Petraeus, speaking today in Paris, contrasted the challenge in Afghanistan with the challenge in Iraq, saying the challenge in Afghanistan would be greater.

“In Iraq, you are rebuilding. In Afghanistan, you are building.”

McCain says after arguing for years that US had to change a losing strategy in Iraq, the US finally came up with a general (Petraeus) and a strategy “that has succeeded!”

That is a stretch. Not even Gen. Petraeus says the war has succeeded. He says it has vastly improved conditions on the ground but that these improvements are still “fragile” and therefore reversible.

I THINK McLost need to say WE WON THE WAR !!!!

Were is the MONEY FOLKS ? After all are we not the Biggest, the Baddest, the bestested, yes we ARE the BOSS……..BUT where is the money folks ?

OK so we now know what it is like to live in the………………. US Socialist Republic of AMERICA !

Thank you KING GEORGE…..and you lemmings want MORE……..

Sarah Palin for President….. after the old guy dies while trying to think ………….. WHAT A PLAN !

Gosh that IS SOOOooooooooooo …….Conservative !

By GA4OBAMA

September 27, 2008 2:00 PM | Link to this

wooten you really do have a love affair with mccain. no mention of how mccain NEVER looked at obama when he was talking to him and even when they shook hands. being a georgian we do have hospitality whether you agree with someone or not. we always look people in the eyes. lets see if you are this excited about mccain after thursday. also you haven’t mentioned how you enjoyed palin’s 3 interviews thus far. so being that mccain showed up to the debates despite his threat not to and the bailout plan isn’t final…do you still think it was a political stunt or he is still country first? and the coincidence that michigan went from toss up to leaning obama so now mccain is going to the debates.

By Thespis

September 27, 2008 2:04 PM | Link to this

Still Waiting,

If you spent some of that time while you are waiting doing some reading and research rather than listening to the usual bunch of talking heads spout the same nonsense repeatedly then you’d know what change he proposes to bring. I don’t agree with some of his proposals for change, but to continue to act as if all the man does is say change without articulating specific plans proves you to be nothing more than the kind of ignorant partisan hack that wouldn’t know objectivity if it slapped you in the mouth.

And before you ask me to articulate his proposals for change for you I’ll tell you right now that i won’t do it. Not because I don’t know, but because I refuse to spoon-feed an intellectually lazy hack like you.

By Stone

September 27, 2008 2:31 PM | Link to this

Jackie what polls have you been looking at? Every poll I’ve seen has the McCain ticket gaining and not dropping in the polls. Wishing it weren’t so Jackie won’t do the trick. Your credibility is suffering every time you post an untruth and is now at an all time low. Tell us why your guy is better than the other guy instead of personal attacks and, in this case, outright lies.

By Cohen

September 27, 2008 2:46 PM | Link to this

Obama will be the next President of the United States. He represents a break with the last 8 years of disastrous domestic and foreign policy of the cut\rrent administration. And after Couric’s intervirew of Palin, I am shocked how somebody with an IQ of a squirrel can be heratbeat away from the Presidency. Palin is scary dumb…

By jm

September 27, 2008 3:33 PM | Link to this

Stone conversely which polls were you looking at? Any movement that I have seen for either candidate has fallen within the statistical margin of error - meaning they really ain’t changing much.

By Rove/ Bush

September 27, 2008 3:52 PM | Link to this

Yea but the Governor is a looker and she can shoot a gun, she does not have to be smart or no about policy just look good!

Hey I know we spent 1 trillion in Iraq and we do not have much to show for it but we kicked some butts!

Hey we will stay in Iraq for a long time I do not care if they give China the oil contract! We owe China 1 trillion dollars now we will protect their oil!

By Algonquin J. Calhoun

September 27, 2008 4:09 PM | Link to this

By Jackie September 27, 2008 12:56 PM | Link to this John McCain and Sarah Palin continue to drop in the polls.

What new act do they bring to this traveling road-show?

Well, Jackie, the rescue by McSwine didn’t fly! Now, the terrorist attack will be moved up. Within ten days you can expect bin Laden’s endorsement of Obama. This is being written and produced in the basement of the White House, where so many of his videos have been done. The criminal Republinazis will stoop to ridiculous levels to remain in power so that George W. Hitler and his minions won’t be tried for the atrocities they’ve committed!

By Stone

September 27, 2008 6:17 PM | Link to this

JM- I’m glad to see you agree that Jakie was incorrect in stating that “John McCain and Sarah Palin continue to drop in the polls,” which was the point I made. I really don’t need your support, but thanks anyway.

By Doog

September 28, 2008 1:39 AM | Link to this

My rear has been my rear for dozens of years but I do not let it dictate national policy.

Experience only counts as a qualification if it is a history of achievement. But McCain’s experience has been comprised of drawing on his family’s legacy to get ahead and, since taking office, advancing the interests of his big-business friends (given that most institutional players regard campaign donations as extortion from incumbents, I include McCain’s campaign finance agenda in that assessment).

His responses during the debate did not demonstrate anything different. Instead, they solely served to highlight that he lacks both the judgment and the temperament to be the president of this great nation.

By jm

September 28, 2008 1:48 AM | Link to this

stone - actually, I was pointing out that you were guilty of the same crime you accused Jackie of - not supporting your comments. I just added my .02 that any change in support for either candidate in the polls I was watching fell within the margin of error. Then again my observations are somewhat incomplete, since the only poll I really pay attention to is the election.

By Stop Pretending!

September 28, 2008 9:49 AM | Link to this

*By Thespis

September 27, 2008 2:04 PM | Link to this

Still Waiting,

If you spent some of that time while you are waiting doing some reading and research rather than listening to the usual bunch of talking heads spout the same nonsense repeatedly then you’d know what change he proposes to bring. I don’t agree with some of his proposals for change, but to continue to act as if all the man does is say change without articulating specific plans proves you to be nothing more than the kind of ignorant partisan hack that wouldn’t know objectivity if it slapped you in the mouth*

I agree with you completely, Thespis and add this for Still Waiting. Yes Obama is bi-racial. Why does he embrace his Black heritage? I know many people of mixed heritage and what do they say…they gravitate to the culture that accepts and embraces them. By the way, considering the fact that African Americans make up less than 20% of the total population, I don’t think that’s enough to win an election. I am not a mathmetician, but I do own a calculator. By Gov Palin’s explanation, maybe I am.

By GaNative

September 28, 2008 1:25 PM | Link to this

Talking about dead presidents and dead army generals didn’t make me think McCain won the debate. Obama was clearly the winner. And he’s not naive. Diplomacy should be our first effort in solving a crisis with other countries. It saves money and it saves lives. You warlords need to get a grip and realize that the United States can’t go around bullying other countries like it did in the past. Whenever Red China gets ready to test a nuclear weapon or missle, they go out in the Ocean and do it. When the U.S. announces opposition, they simply tell us to KISS MY AZZ and do it anyway. There is nothing we can do. The U.S. has handcuffed it’s own army by trying to fight a war by being humanitarians. You can’t win a war quickly and decisively like that. We worry about Israel. But every time Israel gets attacked they go in and Kick AZZ all over the place taking no prisoners and asking no questions. That’s how you fight a war. We had no business sending ground troops to a little country like Iraq.

By AnonyMoose

September 28, 2008 2:19 PM | Link to this

Shocking. Wooten says McCain won. Why did he bother writing this post when everyone knew that he would say McCain won no matter what happened. McCain could have failed to show up and Wooten would write about how he bested Obama in the debate. Wooten is a partisan hack and a fraud.

By Ricardo

September 28, 2008 3:49 PM | Link to this

The Falcons got trounced on Sunday, the Dawgs got crushed on Saturday, and McCain just looked sad on Friday. Reminded me of some old man wanting to talk about the days of vaudeville. Kissinger told me…, Reagan told me…, Leonid Brezhnev for Christ sakes! We really need to restart the 21st century this time around, the past is just history. And obviously (Keating 5) McCain doesn’t learn from his own history.

By Barry

September 28, 2008 6:19 PM | Link to this

I have to say. I am SICK of our government. I am sick of no good politicians politicizing everything. We are facing an economic crisis, and the dems and repubs are LYING repeatedly over each other’s candidates voting record, over their statements, over their positions…it is ridiculous. The bailout plan has been one long week of two parties playing games, posturing for an election. They are playing games with our lives so they can get into power. A financial crisis of the magnitude congress claims it is…should not be used to win votes.

We need to reform our government. We need a reformation revolution.

By Wite Pwr

September 29, 2008 2:23 AM | Link to this

Wooten…the tax payers would be best served to just pay you a welfare check. You have got to be one of the most worthless journalist I have seen to date.

By Cakey

September 29, 2008 8:12 AM | Link to this

Why am I not surprised that Wooten would say McCain won? Of course it may have something to do that you look and sound exactly like McCain and living in the past!!

By Nancy

September 29, 2008 1:58 PM | Link to this

Between Palin’s excessive “Verbage” during selective interviews and McCain’s support of vets, if BS were currancy they would have enough to bail out Wall Street and claim it was their fiscal policy!

By Andrea

September 29, 2008 3:59 PM | Link to this

I can’t wait to read what Mr. Wooten writes after the Biden/Palin debate.

By THE REPUBLICANS

October 2, 2008 6:28 AM | Link to this

BREAKING NEWS:

PALIN TEAMS CLAIMS DEBATE POINTS HANDICAPP:

PALIN Camp now claims 5+ Debate points for the mentally disabled under [11CFR110— Sec.110.13].

Citing:

Warning signs of ADHD:

1) Failure to listen to instructions:

-Couric: I’m just going to ask you one more time - not to belabor the point. Specific examples in his 26 years of pushing for more regulation.

-Palin: I’ll try to find you some and I’ll bring them to you.

2) Inability to organize oneself (Incoherent responses)

-Couric: What other Supreme Court decisions do you disagree with?

-Palin: Well, let’s see…..(you know the rest)

3) Leaving projects unfinished (Bridge To Nowhere)

4) Trouble paying attention to and responding to details

• Couric what publications she had read to stay informed and to understand the world?

• Palin- “I’ve read most of them, again with a great appreciation for the press, for the media,” Palin replied. Asked for examples, she said, “Um, all of them, any of them that have been in front of me all these years.” 5) Talking too much (blabbering, blathering ) Insert any answer 1 thru 4 here___.

As respectfully submitted Pursuant to Federal Rules of Civil Procedure 56, Candidate Sarah Palin respectfully moves for summary judgment in this action. In support of this motion, plaintiff relies upon the accompanying memorandum and the statement of undisputed material facts.

Signed,

THE REPUBLICANS

By Churchill

October 2, 2008 8:31 AM | Link to this

Skepticism of Palin Growing, Poll Finds

With the vice presidential candidates set to square off today in their only scheduled debate, public assessments of Sarah Palin’s readiness have plummeted, and she may now be a drag on the Republican ticket among key voter groups, according to a new Washington Post-ABC News poll.

This Story Skepticism of Palin Growing, Poll Finds Washington Post-ABC News Poll Data Palin’s Strengths Rooted in Alaska Media Notes: GOP ‘Gotcha Journalism’ Charges Throw Spotlight on Debate Biden, Aides Focus On Tone of Debate Tracking the Running Mates View All Items in This Story View Only Top Items in This Story Tonight’s heavily anticipated debate comes just five weeks after the popular Alaska governor entered the national spotlight as Sen. John McCain’s surprise pick to be his running mate. Though she initially transformed the race with her energizing presence and a fiery convention speech, Palin is now a much less positive force: Six in 10 voters see her as lacking the experience to be an effective president, and a third are now less likely to vote for McCain because of her.

A month ago, voters rated Palin as highly as they did McCain or his Democratic rival, Sen. Barack Obama, but after weeks of intensive coverage and several perceived missteps, the shine has diminished.

Nearly a third of adults in a new poll from the Pew Research Center said they paid a lot of attention to Palin’s interviews with CBS News’s Katie Couric, a series that prompted grumbling among some conservative commentators about Palin’s competency to be the GOP’s vice presidential standard-bearer. The Pew poll showed views of Palin slipping over the past few days alone.

In the new Post-ABC poll, Palin matches the Democratic vice presidential candidate, Sen. Joseph R. Biden Jr., on empathy, one of McCain’s clear deficits against Obama, while fewer than half of voters think she understands “complex issues.”

But it is the experience question that may prove her highest hurdle, particularly when paired with widespread public concern about McCain’s age. About half of all voters said they were uncomfortable with the idea of McCain taking office at age 72, and 85 percent of those voters said Palin does not have the requisite experience to be president.

The 60 percent who now see Palin as insufficiently experienced to step into the presidency is steeply higher than in a Post-ABC poll after her nomination early last month. Democrats and Republicans alike are now more apt to doubt her qualifications, but the biggest shift has come among independents.

In early September, independents offered a divided verdict on Palin’s experience; now they take the negative view by about 2 to 1. Nearly two-thirds of both independent men and women in the new poll said Palin has insufficient experience to run the White House.

Obama was able for the first time to crack the 50 percent mark, albeit barely, on whether he has the experience to be president following Friday’s presidential debate, and the question is one of Palin’s central challenges as she prepares to face Biden in prime time before a national television audience.

More than two-thirds of voters in the Pew poll said they plan to watch the debate, far more than said they were going to turn on the vice presidential debate four years ago. The expectations are that Biden, a six-term senator, will win: Voters by a 19-point margin think he will prove to be the better debater.

In the new Post-ABC poll, majorities of conservatives and Republicans maintain that Palin has the necessary experience to step in as president, though those numbers are also down somewhat from early last month.

But a third of independent voters now indicate they are less likely to support McCain because of Palin, compared with 20 percent who said so in an ABC poll a month ago. Palin now repels more independents than she attracts to McCain. The share of independent women less apt to support McCain because of the Palin pick has more than doubled to 34 percent, while the percentage more inclined to support him is down eight points.

White Catholics, another important group of swing voters, also are now more likely to say that Palin dampens their support for McCain.

Palin’s Strengths Rooted in Alaska Media Notes: GOP ‘Gotcha Journalism’ Charges Throw Spotlight on Debate Biden, Aides Focus On Tone of Debate

Still, nearly half of both white Catholics and independents said she does not affect their votes. Even more, about six in 10, said Obama’s pick of Biden did not change their chances of voting Democratic.

The history of vice presidential picks suggests they are rarely consequential, and in a July Post-ABC poll, the nominees’ choice for No. 2 was last on a list of 17 items voters said might sway their decisions.

The reaction to Palin, however, has been uncharacteristically strong.

Nearly three in 10 independent women have intensely unfavorable opinions of her, more than twice the proportion holding such views of Biden. And a majority of Democratic women now have “strongly unfavorable” views of Palin, up sharply from just after she accepted the nomination.

Among all voters, 29 percent have “strongly favorable” views, and an exactly offsetting number hold intensely negative ones. Attitudes toward Biden are more subdued.

Overall, 51 percent of voters view Palin favorably; for Biden, that number is a bit higher at 57 percent.

The vice presidential hopefuls run about evenly among all voters and among independents on the question of whether they “understand the problems of people like you.” That is an important factor for the GOP ticket, as McCain continues to trail Obama as the candidate more in tune with the financial problems Americans face.

White married women are particularly likely to see Palin as in touch, as three-quarters said she understands their concerns. At the same time, a majority of such women do not think Palin has enough experience to be a good president. (White married women support the GOP ticket by a 20-point margin.)

Palin runs far behind Biden on another important attribute: About three-quarters of those surveyed said he understands complex issues, compared with 46 percent who said so of her.

On the eve of the presidential election in 2000, 76 percent said Al Gore had a solid grasp of hard issues; 60 percent said so of George W. Bush.

Despite Palin’s slip in public assessments, the boost she has provided among some core segments of the GOP base has not faded. Enthusiasm for McCain’s candidacy among Republicans, conservatives and white evangelical Protestants climbed sharply after the party’s convention in St. Paul, Minn., where Palin made her debut, and it has held relatively steady since.

But even within these Republican strongholds, questions about Palin’s experience are fairly common. About four in 10 conservatives and white evangelical Protestants, three in 10 Republicans and a quarter of GOP women said she does not have the necessary experience.

The Post-ABC poll was conducted by telephone Sept. 27 to 29 among a random sample of adults nationally, including interviews with 1,070 registered voters. The results have a margin of sampling error of plus or minus three percentage points. Error margins for subgroups are higher.