By Dotcomabc

Jul 19, 2008 10:16am

Obama Comes to Kabul

Sen. Barack Obama, D-Ill., arrived in Kabul, Afghanistan, at around 3 a.m. ET Saturday morning on an official CODEL, or congressional delegation trip abroad.

Accompanied by Sens. Chuck Hagel, R-Neb., and Jack Reed, D-R.I., Obama’s flight left Andrews Air Force Base in Washington, D.C., shortly after 3 p.m. Thursday. The plane stopped in Kuwait, where Obama visited troops.

In general, the trip has been shrouded in secrecy for security reasons, with the exception of when Obama’s opponent, Sen. John McCain, R-Ariz., told donors at a fundraiser at the Detroit Athletic Club that “I believe that either today or tomorrow, I am not privy to his schedule, Sen. Obama will be landing in Iraq with some other senators. There will be a congressional delegation and I am sure that Sen. Obama is going to arrive in Baghdad in a much, much safer and secure environment than the one that he would have encountered before we started the surge.”

On Thursday, Obama flew from Chicago’s Midway Airport to Washington’s Reagan National Airport. That plane had been sitting under a hot sun so cabin temperature seemed to be in the 90s, with sweat trickling down the faces of Obama’s accompanying Secret Service agents.

“We’re just easing you into it,” Obama told them.

After landing, a reporter asked Obama what he hoped to learn from his trip.

“Well, I’m looking forward to seeing what the situation on the ground is,” he said. “I want to, obviously, talk to the commanders and get a sense, both in Afghanistan and in Baghdad of, you know, what the most, their biggest concerns are. And I want to thank our troops for the heroic work that they’ve been doing.”

Asked if he planned to relay some tough talk to Afghan President Hamid Karzai and Iraqi Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki, he said, “I’m more interested in listening than doing a lot of talking. And I think it is very important to recognize that I’m going over there as a U.S. Senator. We have one president at a time, so it’s the president’s job to deliver those messages.”

Obama is being accompanied on his trip to Iraq and Afghanistan by his Senate foreign policy aide Mark Lippert, who recently returned from a tour of duty in Iraq as a Naval reservist.

**

When he lands in Baghdad, Obama will apparently hear some conflicting messages. As ABC News’ Martha Raddatz has reported, U.S. commanders on the ground are quite skeptical of Obama’s plan to withdraw U.S. forces from Iraq within 16 months of taking office. As Raddatz reported, several commanders told ABC News, on background, that there was “no way” the Obama plan for withdrawal could work logistically.

Today in Der Spiegel, however, Iraqi Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki says U.S. troops should leave Iraq “as soon as possible, as far as we are concerned.” He then continued: “U.S. presidential candidate Barack Obama is right when he talks about 16 months.”

He added, “So far the Americans have had trouble agreeing to a concrete timetable for withdrawal, because they feel it would appear tantamount to an admission of defeat. But that isn’t the case at all. If we come to an agreement, it is not evidence of a defeat, but of a victory, of a severe blow we have inflicted on al-Qaida and the militias.”

Gen. David Petraeus, the top U.S. military commander in Iraq, told The Associated Press today that there are indications al-Qaida’s senior leaders are diverting fighters from the war in Iraq to the Afghan frontier.

And of course we have yesterday’s news from the White House that the U.S. and Iraq have agreed to seek “a general time horizon” for deeper reductions in American combat troops in Iraq.

But a general departure horizon, or whatever, is not a hard and firm timeline, as British Prime Minister Gordon Brown underscored for reporters in Baghdad today, per Bloomberg News.

“It is certainly our intention that we reduce our troops, but I am not going to set out an artificial timetable,” Brown said after a meeting with Maliki.

The sun now sets on the erstwhile British Empire; the UK has reduced its troop presence in Iraq from 40,000 to the 4,000 or so soldiers at an airbase in Basra where they support Iraqis.

Brown said “building blocks for the future” — political progress, Iraqi security force training, economic reconstruction — must be accomplished before troop withdrawal. “It’s absolutely crucial we complete these tasks,” Brown said.

– jpt

User Comments

Thats the key point. Obama would not be able to go over their if it were not for the surge working.
We all know that have any sense you could not take out the terrorist in Afganistan with out taking out Iraq who would of been a worse unfriendly safe haven than Pakistan ever could be.
Obama grow up.

Posted by: jause | July 19, 2008, 10:23 am 10:23 am

You can see now Obama has been right to the point about Iraq withdrawal plan and putting more troops in Afganistan.
I think his judgment is excellent.
He has all great advisers and he has keen judgment. what more can you expect from a commander in chief?

Posted by: sophi | July 19, 2008, 10:35 am 10:35 am

jause
of course the surge has made it okay for obama to visit…it has always been said that violence would go down…that was never the question duh…
the question is will that reduction in violence set up a situation where a government could get strong enough to hold down a civil war that is built on tribal differences that have gone on for 500 years…
the quietmness from the insurgents is based on two things…
promises of money and power and positions that do not exist…
and the fact that Obama has said we are leaving that is forcing the Iraqiis to step up and the insurgents to choose sides before the change… the side that has given them guns and money… the same game plan that got us Osama Bin Laden and the Taliban 2 decades ago.
and if you haven’t heard as of today Maliki is backing Obama’s plan.

Posted by: dl | July 19, 2008, 10:40 am 10:40 am

jause: before the invasion, a tie between Iraq and Al Qaeda did not exist. This is not a struggle where guns will show us the way out, only wisdom. Obama has that wisdom. Our current president lied to us and has taken this beautiful country down the tubes. McCain seeks to continue the charade.

Posted by: Jane | July 19, 2008, 10:42 am 10:42 am

There will be no need for a surge if Bush and McCain did not invade the wrong country with billions of dollars wasted and thousands of lives lost.
Osama bin Laden is still alive and well and without being punished for what he did to America

Posted by: Nick | July 19, 2008, 10:42 am 10:42 am

again
as of today Maliki told a German newspaper that he thinks Obama’s plan “is right”

Posted by: dl | July 19, 2008, 10:42 am 10:42 am

as of Mlaiki’s comments today…this election is almost done…lol

Posted by: dl | July 19, 2008, 10:46 am 10:46 am

Well has anybody heard president bush is moving to obamas side more and more hes talking about sending troops out of iraq to afghan not to mention having more diplomatic talks with iran and north korea guess the junior senator doesnt have bad judgement after all wonder how mccain feels about bush moving toward obama??? mcain let the critizing begin obama08

Posted by: angie | July 19, 2008, 10:47 am 10:47 am

So the Princess Obama tour has commenced.Hope he has the military chain of command figured out and second, wondering if he’ll yet again “refine” his position on Iraq.CHANGE!

Posted by: R | July 19, 2008, 10:52 am 10:52 am

“Well, I’m looking forward to seeing what the situation on the ground is,” Obama said.
Most likely dry and strewn with pebbles, like much of the Middle East.

Posted by: erb0087 | July 19, 2008, 10:54 am 10:54 am

“Iraqi Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki says U.S. troops should leave Iraq “as soon as possible, as far as we are concerned.” He then continued: “U.S. presidential candidate Barack Obama is right when he talks about 16 months.”
There goes another example of Obama’s judement. Sen. McCain says if we were to follow Obama’s Iraqi War plan the United States would have been defeated.
False.
If we had followed Obama Iraqi War plan, we would have never been a war to begin with.
I just find it ironic both McCain and Bush are adopting Obama’s foreign policies and won’t give credit to where credit is due.

Posted by: Vanessa | July 19, 2008, 10:55 am 10:55 am

Obama Comes to Kabul.
Meanwhile McCain comes to Cavil.

Posted by: erb0087 | July 19, 2008, 10:55 am 10:55 am

Jane do you ever think that Iraq would of been a safe haven for terrorist strikes against gains made in Afghanistan if we did not destroy Iraq first. Pakistan has become a safe haven so why not Iraq under Saddam just to mess with Americans in Afghanistan. Its not like Saddam Huessein was a good friend of America

Posted by: being | July 19, 2008, 10:58 am 10:58 am

So Obama is finally starting his summer internship!
nOBAMA

Posted by: Kurt | July 19, 2008, 10:59 am 10:59 am

We got a new rock and roll king, and his name is Obama.

Posted by: al4mcattack | July 19, 2008, 11:02 am 11:02 am

This trip is part of Obama’s On the Job Training.

Posted by: al4mcattack | July 19, 2008, 11:03 am 11:03 am

being
as bad as saddam was…
he was a power ogre… it is well reported like Biden said early on…that al quaeda hated him…and he hated them…even if Cheney tried to make it sound like they were in cahoots…
that was a lie.
surprise surprise again.
They took a cork off a bad situation and now are trying to put another cork in…
of course like they did in Iran and Afghanistan decades ago they are just looking short term by giving insurgents guns and money… for a political temporary reprieve…
that is why John McCaine is saying we need to stay for 100 years because they are setting up a situation like we have seen before blow up in our faces.
all for a temporary political gain.
but the American people can’t afford 100 years.
this war was tragic…globally and historically and nationally mistake.

Posted by: dl | July 19, 2008, 11:03 am 11:03 am

Posted by: jause | Jul 19, 2008 10:23:49 AM
Thats the key point. Obama would not be able to go over their if it were not for the surge working.
Hello? There’s a surge in Afghanistan?

Posted by: Take America Barack | July 19, 2008, 11:07 am 11:07 am

being: to answer your question, the harrassment from within Iraq would have been non-existent. There was a weak coalition once-upon-a-time aimed at solving the situation in Afghanistan whereas now, this country has isolated itself and we are feeling the effects through our economy. The terrorist responsible for 9/11 are hiding out in Afghanistan and in Pakistan, end of story.

Posted by: Jane | July 19, 2008, 11:07 am 11:07 am

It’s apparent that the White House is finally playing catch-up to Senator Obama, a supposed neophyte on foreign policy and national security. First it was against attacking Al-Qaeda leadership in Pakistan (as espoused by the Senator), now its launching missile strikes and routinely allowing defensive fire into Pakistan. Next it was against appeasement (dialogue) of Tehran, now the number three State Department official will be meeting with the Iranians. Finally, it was against time-tables for withdrawal (surrender), now it’s agreed to a ‘general time horizon’ for withdrawal of US troops. Let’s watch the conservatives spin these ‘flip-flops’!
The anti-Obama vitriol on these Talkbacks just gets more desperate and amusing by the day. Keep it up… you make the rest of us seem more realistic and intelligent!

Posted by: RC-Toledo | July 19, 2008, 11:08 am 11:08 am

Afghanistan and Iraq are two completely different situations…
that is the problem with McCain and Bush and Cheney in the first place…they did not understand the culture or country.
one has a 500 year tribal war between two large factions…
afghanistan has many warlords, drug income and al quaeda headquartered on their border.
two very different cultural situations.
Obama is right…McCain Bush and Cheney are wrong.

Posted by: dl | July 19, 2008, 11:08 am 11:08 am

What a JOKE! The surge isn’t working, 4 of my friends died May 2nd 08’ and more young Americans have given their lives since then.
If Iraq was in such good shape then why are we worried about time tables?
Obama will come back home and tell us truth about what’s really going on over there.

Posted by: JD | July 19, 2008, 11:08 am 11:08 am

Without McCain’s challenge to vist the war zone, this guy won’t even bother.
Now, B.S. Obama gets all the publicity, with the far left media all smiles. What a screwup on McCain’s camp. A respectful campaign is a sign of surrender. Wake up, JM, let’s give republicans a real fighting chance. It
will be a disaster if the Democrats control all three branches of the Government.

Posted by: micc | July 19, 2008, 11:08 am 11:08 am

Iraqi Prime Minister has just endorsed Sen Obama’s 16 month plan for withdrawing American combat troops. Go figure Obama was right on his foreign polcy stance in the war regions. He is really giving w & Mclame a lesson in foreign policies.
What wars have McBush won? What has he accomplished on his own in 26 years in the Senate? What policies are different between Bush and McCain? Hint ask the GOP surogate from S.C. (Sanford)?
Obama 08

Posted by: James | July 19, 2008, 11:10 am 11:10 am

The sabre rattling about Iran distresses me. The whole set-up reminds me of the pre-Iraq War talk. I do agree Iran poses a threat to world peace, but the U.S. can’t afford to go it alone, not this time. This is one struggle, the U.S. will not be able to shoot its way out of folks. Only wisdom will see us through this one…

Posted by: Jane | July 19, 2008, 11:11 am 11:11 am

No
Obama ran on being the only candidate who opposed the war from the beginning. He staged it on leaving Iraq, not the middle east. Al qaeda main base is in Afganistan. He wants to focus on Afganistan only rather then Iraq and Afganistan.
John McCain wants a to maintain the surge in Iraq and pile on to Afganistan. I also fear a war on Iran with a McCain presidency.

Posted by: Vanessa | July 19, 2008, 11:12 am 11:12 am

Micc
the republicans have been in control the last 6 years and just look at the disaster!!!!

Posted by: angie | July 19, 2008, 11:14 am 11:14 am

JD wrote, “By the way how many Americans were killed by guns today in America. Blame the violence on a Democrat.”
Seriously? With comments like these, it’s no wonder the world thinks we’re idiots!

Posted by: Jane | July 19, 2008, 11:15 am 11:15 am

The situation on the ground won’t be known by either Obama or McCain vacation trip to Afghanistan. The situation on the ground will be known only by Soldiers or officials who remain there for at least for one year and study it thoroughly. Then these Soldiers and officials should given an update of the situation. Based on that study, the US Govt should taken an action.

Posted by: Sri | July 19, 2008, 11:17 am 11:17 am

Mcain I KNOW HOW TO WIN WARS
With all due respect sir what wars have you won?? in regards to vietnam you were shot down, and became pow and from what i understand you betrayed the us and thats why they will not release your military record why not release them what are you hiding sir??????/

Posted by: angie | July 19, 2008, 11:18 am 11:18 am

Between this weekend with Maliki’s comments, gramm stepping down, Obama’s travel…
Mccain luckily is going to start sliding.
It should be the one issue we don’t ever discuss is McCain’s overwhelming push for us to go to war with Iraq in the first place…
he was one of the biggest players outside of Cheney and Bush…in the push to go. Go look it up.
and now he is laying the groundwork for Iran…
he is an old man with a cold war view of the world still…that is a HUGE problem.
He thinks military tactics will solve this problem.
They may help solve a violence problem…but not a sociological, diplomatic and political one…and at the cost of a financial and military abomination.
and the tactics being used with the insurgents are the the ones that gave us the Taliban, OBL and others…

Posted by: dl | July 19, 2008, 11:19 am 11:19 am

Hmmmm, interesting that so many world leaders are willing to meet with Senator Obama . . . it’s almost like they think he’s the next President of the United States or something . . .
(I kinda got that feeling too!)
P.S. Maybe Senator McCain should have gone with Senator Obama on this trip – then he could stop whining about not getting enough coverage!
Not getting enough coverage is the best thing that ever happened to him – considering all the nonsensical things he says!
Wonder why we don’t hear about him balancing the budget in his first term anymore . . . hmmmmmm . . .

Posted by: GetLostMcCain | July 19, 2008, 11:20 am 11:20 am

Posted by: erb0087 | Jul 19, 2008 10:54:16 AM “wondering if he’ll yet again “refine” his position on Iraq.CHANGE!”
He dam well better. Any great Commander and Chief changes and refines his plan based on the current situation.

Posted by: Take America Barack | July 19, 2008, 11:20 am 11:20 am

Hmmmm, interesting that so many world leaders are willing to meet with Senator Obama . . . it’s almost like they think he’s the next President of the United States or something . . .
(I kinda got that feeling too!)
P.S. Maybe Senator McCain should have gone with Senator Obama on this trip – then he could stop whining about not getting enough coverage!
Not getting enough coverage is the best thing that ever happened to him – considering all the nonsensical things he says!
Wonder why we don’t hear about him balancing the budget in his first term anymore . . . hmmmmmm . . .

Posted by: Woman4Obama | July 19, 2008, 11:21 am 11:21 am

Woman4Obama: “balancing?” “budget?” “McCain?” Oh my! Those words should never be written into the same sentence! LOL

Posted by: Jane | July 19, 2008, 11:22 am 11:22 am

McCain should be sanctioned for talking about Obama’s whereabouts. This was not a gaffe. I seriously don’t understand why he had to talk about it at all.

Posted by: cincyr | July 19, 2008, 11:24 am 11:24 am

Lets see Obamas military record? OUCH!

Posted by: Eric | July 19, 2008, 11:26 am 11:26 am

Eric
I disagree
there are a few dems who are pretty loud (to the point of obnoxious almost) and fighting to change Bush’s bad policies and the road he lead us down.
The problem is the hard heads that used America’s fear and in some cases fear of each other… to get elected are still running with the fear factors that got them elected.
They use fear of fellow americans and fear of everyone outside america…to continue this stupid battle that has gotten us to this point…
it’s hard when we jumped this far over the cliff in the past 8 years to get us back on the road we were on.

Posted by: dl | July 19, 2008, 11:28 am 11:28 am

Eric: what does military service have to do with being the President of the U.S.? Last time I checked, the military teaches its members to obey orders, even stupid orders from Bushie. Since when did military service become the golden key to the White House?

Posted by: Jane | July 19, 2008, 11:29 am 11:29 am

Jane – {{81 people in the U.S. are killed everyday with guns, including gun suicides, accidental shootings, and murders.}}
I think the key word here is KILLED! Why should anybody have to die especially for an unjust war (IRAQ)
You need to wake up Ma’am; when one of your friends have giving their life in this unjust war then you come talk to me.

Posted by: JD | July 19, 2008, 11:29 am 11:29 am

Every time a US politician went to VIETNAM to “learn about the situation on the ground” the generals told him exactly what THEY were required to say in order to KEEP THEIR JOBS: “We’re making progress.” “The enemy is tough, but our troops are tougher.” “If we stay optimistic and keep the pressure on, we’ll win for sure.” etc. etc. and other CANNED FEEL-GOOD stuff. The reality in Afghanistan is that it’s like Europe in the 14th century with dozens of “robber barons” in their little fiefdoms and castles throwing their weight around, extorting money from the local economy, growing rich off opium crops, and so forth. These warlords aren’t terrorists dangerous to America – they’re terrorists to their own local population. No matter HOW MANY AMERICAN TROOPS you send into that kind of chaos, it isn’t going to fix it!

Posted by: AlChemist | July 19, 2008, 11:31 am 11:31 am

JD: Hey, I was in the military (5 years), and I DO have friends who were killed unjustly! What’s your point?

Posted by: Jane | July 19, 2008, 11:31 am 11:31 am

DL thats a pretty pathetic excuse. So when is an acceptable time frame to fix this mess? No matter what, 4 years from now we as a country will still be screwed. Doesnt matter if its Obama or McCain they both suck!

Posted by: Eric | July 19, 2008, 11:32 am 11:32 am

To be President all you have to have to do is speak well. Obama has never had a real job in his life nor has he every run a company but hell make him President! Hitler gave great speeches too.

Posted by: Eric | July 19, 2008, 11:35 am 11:35 am

Eric: So I guess that disqualifies McCain then? So I guess government service doesn’t count as a “real job” then right? Only private sector work counts for “real work?” Is that what your implying by your statement about him never having run a company?

Posted by: Jane | July 19, 2008, 11:37 am 11:37 am

Does Obama need a military record as a qualification for the presidency?
For someone who does have a military record and relatively 20+ years on foreign affair issues, John McCain is proving to be an amateur after adopting a senator whom he calls “inexperience” foreign policy.

Posted by: Vanessa | July 19, 2008, 11:37 am 11:37 am

Eric
can you expain to us why bush and mccain are agreeing with obamas policy??

Posted by: angie | July 19, 2008, 11:39 am 11:39 am

Lets see…
Bush ran a company and has a military record. Look at what 8 years of Bush got us.

Posted by: Vanessa | July 19, 2008, 11:40 am 11:40 am

Eric
I don’t think they both suck…
I think McCain is just an old man who is stuck in a mindset that is military …and thought we could go nation build…
like some valiant thing…illogical, financially stupid, overwhelmingly dumb… as he was the guy standing with Bush and Cheney saying it’ll be long and hard but we should go to war with iraq…he thinks everyone is like his father, his grandfather and Lt. Dan from Forrest Gump… that being American means going to war to solve problems. even if he doesn’t like war…his math in his head has to do with war. That’s how he solves problems.
Obama is trying to fight the good fight… I saw him speak and answer questions trying to get to the right thing. Not the politically advantageous thing…but the right thing.
McCain did the same but like I said his brain works like a military official out of the Reagan administration…but that does not mean that it works like Reagans.
Bush broke it …we bought it. Now he will go retire and drink his tea on his ranch in Texas and Cheney will go hunt people in Montana.
all the while a very messy situation is left for the rest of us.
Even if you are not crazy about what you have seen from either…
Vote for the smart guy who realizes that our answers are not just invasion and bombs…and tax cuts for the wealthy…and his lobbyist campaign staffs clients.

Posted by: dl | July 19, 2008, 11:41 am 11:41 am

I’d be happy if the phrase, “on the ground” was never used again, at least by those whose exposure to “the ground” is limited to dog and pony shows.

Posted by: Ed | July 19, 2008, 11:48 am 11:48 am

Listen to the stupid Obama people saying Bush is coming around to Obama’s plans for withdrawing from Iraq. When Obama first said he would remove troops from Iraq, if the USD would have done what he wanted at the time he first said it, we would have had a blood bath and a diaster on our hands because thongs were so bad in Iraq. But Bush decided to send in more troops (the Surge) to help steady the situation oin the ground. McCain had been saying all along we needed more troops in Iraq. The surge made Iraq a better place and withdrawal of US forces is now possible without a diaster. But if we haqd done what Obama wanted we would have had a diaster. AND OBAMA WAS AGAINST THE SURGE. And as for Iran. Bush sent a diplomat to the talks being held in Europe with Iran and Iran started it off by saying they would not ever stop enriching uranium no matter what. So I ask how can you negotiate with Iran?

Posted by: Sandy | July 19, 2008, 11:49 am 11:49 am

Some of you actually want this senior citizen to run our country ?????
I wouldn’t want him to drive a car.

Posted by: Woman4Obama | July 19, 2008, 11:54 am 11:54 am

Bush and McSame are already copying most of Obama’s foreign policy suggestions. I’m glad to see Obama go to these countries and see things firsthand. He will have a relationship with the leaders and will be able to get America back on the right track quickly after his election.

Posted by: pieceof cake | July 19, 2008, 11:55 am 11:55 am

when opponents resort to blatant lies and ad hominem screeching, like those obviously “low information” sorts who oppose an Obama presidency, defeat of those desperate opponents must be close at hand.

Posted by: Pants on Fire! | July 19, 2008, 11:55 am 11:55 am

Isnt Obama adorable….he’s trying to act all grown up!! LOL

Posted by: cheesedrippings69 | July 19, 2008, 11:57 am 11:57 am

Out with the old. In with the new. It’s that simple. Let’s get it done.

Posted by: hey Scoob | July 19, 2008, 11:58 am 11:58 am

What a crock. Obama isn’t qualified to run a girl scout troop much less the most powerful nation on Earth. Besides, he made his policy speeches *before* he flew to Iraq and Afghanistan for the photo ops…
Vote for McCain.

Posted by: Jon | July 19, 2008, 12:00 pm 12:00 pm

sandy
Obama has said since the spring of last year that he would begin removing troops WHEN he was elected at one to two brigades a month…he often talked about how that would be 2-to 3 years to remove the troops from the time he was saying it.
That is exactly what is happening…
Obama has always said violence would most likely go down but the goal of this reduction in violence was to have a strong central government… which we do not know if we have. 500 years of fighting lies under the quiet of a bunch of insurgents who were promised positions of power and given money and guns to stand next to us there. (the same things we did in other countries and the people we gave guns to came back and attacked us later)…
Obama did not want us to risk this all being for naught.
and we will not know if it was for naught for decades.

Posted by: dl | July 19, 2008, 12:00 pm 12:00 pm

Lets see Obamas military record? OUCH!
Posted by: Eric | Jul 19, 2008 11:26:01 AM
Not having a military record does not disqualify a person from being President.
Having a military record does not qualify a person to be president.

Posted by: Take America Barack | July 19, 2008, 12:02 pm 12:02 pm

I’m getting pretty tired of this hand wringing and whining. The GOP had its chance for the last 8 years and it blew it. It deserves the back seat for the next four years and it needs to take it. Stop blaming other people for your failures and your lies. Sit down, shut up, and let somebody with some intelligence handle this for a change.

Posted by: hey Scoob | July 19, 2008, 12:03 pm 12:03 pm

How much are tickets for his tour?

Posted by: kd | July 19, 2008, 12:05 pm 12:05 pm

Obama is already proving he will be a good commander-in-chief. Mccain reminds me of my 73 year old Dad. People of that age can never keep a secret. Straight-talk.

Posted by: vuzous | July 19, 2008, 12:07 pm 12:07 pm

Iraq is a sovereign nation and as of the end of this year, we are officially “guests” with a mandate from the UN expiring. When the Prime Minister of a sovereign nation asks that UN mandated troops leave, under the UN charter they must leave. End of story. So, the Bush administration can either continue to tell the Iraqis that we know what’s best for them or we can allow that nation to stand up for themselves. I say its time to take off the training wheels and let the people of that sovereign nation handle their own affairs. It looks as though Obama gets this and that McCain has the security interests of the oil companies on his agenda. Why else would he want to keep troops and American bases there for 100 years? That’s when the oil will run out.

Posted by: Tommy Thompson | July 19, 2008, 12:10 pm 12:10 pm

300 advisors?!
The Empty Suit Syndrome.

Posted by: riley | July 19, 2008, 12:10 pm 12:10 pm

It is sad to see Obama get into a military macho image building gimmicks. Sad because, I dont think he beleives in it, but is compelled to tow the line because he knows how badly Americans are hooked on military-talk. The addition is not just for oil, but also for wars and sabre-rattling. I hope Obama returns to his original conviction and lead america to a real CHANGE…a move away from being the war-makers of the world.

Posted by: Havisupai | July 19, 2008, 12:11 pm 12:11 pm

CORRECTION: The last part of what I wrote should read, “banks and financial institutions that have gotten themselves into the red are getting bailed out in Billions of tax payer dollars ‘EVERY TIME’ they sneeze, and the lists goes on…”

Posted by: lovinggrandma53 | July 19, 2008, 12:22 pm 12:22 pm

The last thing I want, is a senile old man who wears Depends at night and does not know who were fighting, or where were fighting, responsible for the safety of Billions of people.
Hell, if the phone rang at 3:00am, he couldn’t hear it!

Posted by: Take America Barack | July 19, 2008, 12:23 pm 12:23 pm

Is that his VP choice standing behind him in the picture?

Posted by: MJ | July 19, 2008, 12:24 pm 12:24 pm

JD, the invasion of Iraq was not unjust. We and the UN Security Council diplomatically tried to persuade Saddam Hussein to comply with the conditions of the 1991 cease fire–to which he agreed in total. One of those conditions was if Iraq no longer had WMDs then Saddam Hussein was required to prove they had been destroyed. He failed to do this, even after the UN Security Council issued its final ultimatum. When the UN Security Council decided not to follow through on its ultimatum, President Bush issued his own final ultimatum. When Saddam Hussein still refused to comply, President Bush terminated the cease fire. He ordered the invasion with the authority of the UN mandate AND the approval of the U. S. Congress and in accordance with Congress’ 1998 authorization for regime change in Iraq.

Posted by: James Danley | July 19, 2008, 12:26 pm 12:26 pm

The country is still laughing at how Obama “airbrushed” his website so you all won’t remember what he said about the surge!
Obama is such a fraud and we’re all finding out. That’s why he dropped 15 points in 2 weeks in the polls.
President McCain – get use to it!

Posted by: Jo | July 19, 2008, 12:36 pm 12:36 pm

I seen the Jr. Sen. Obama at a table with the “officials” in Kabul this morning. He looked a little lost and confused. Hope he’s ok. LOL

Posted by: Wild | July 19, 2008, 12:38 pm 12:38 pm

I’m still trying to figure out why mccain confused the Packers with the Steelers last week while speaking to a Pittsburgh crowd. He said he used the names of the famous Steelers Defensive line of the 1970′s, too bad these guys weren’t even playing when mccain was being interrogated. He is either going senile or he was trying to pull one over on the Pittsburgh crowd, either way this is BAD news for mc-more-war. You can check out the article by going into google and typing “mccain steelers” and picking the first link.
Obama 2008!!!

Posted by: pt | July 19, 2008, 12:38 pm 12:38 pm

This guys is a clown. And the media is his circus. He is so out of place its funny. He has no idea what the hell is going on over their and if we elect him our country will a sorry state, more sorry then it is currently.
MCCAIN IS THE ONLY ANSWER

Posted by: Mccainfortherightside | July 19, 2008, 12:39 pm 12:39 pm

When you’re on a mission for the world, you’re on a mission for GOD.
Go Barack!

Posted by: Bernard | July 19, 2008, 12:41 pm 12:41 pm

JO
then can you please explain to us why the iraq goverment is saying obama is right, now bush is adopting obamas plans diplomatic talks, considering troops be moved from iraq into afghan also now bush is speaking about a timetable withdraw why are these people now coming around to what obama has been saying please explain JO

Posted by: angie | July 19, 2008, 12:42 pm 12:42 pm

Does anyone pay attention to obama he has stated time and time again he is not or was never withdrawing all troops from iraq two or three birgades a month over time is not withdrawing all of them please get your facts straight before you begin your rants!!!!!!!

Posted by: angie | July 19, 2008, 12:45 pm 12:45 pm

Take back America,Barack…not
The last thing many of us want is for a punk not yet out of training political diapers “who does not know who were fighting, or where were fighting, responsible for the safety of Billions of people.”
“Hell, if the phone rang at 3:00am,” he’d be sucking his thumb.

Posted by: 300 foreign policy adivers | July 19, 2008, 12:48 pm 12:48 pm

I was thinking that we were already slowing drawing down our number of troops, as conditions allow. This seems prudent to me.
Also, I don’t think it adds to the duscussion to make fun of McCain because of his age.

Posted by: Keepyourheelsdown | July 19, 2008, 12:50 pm 12:50 pm

Yes, Angie, you are correct about 2 brigades (not birgades) being removed every month and then Mr. Obama wants to leave just enough “help” to protect our Embassy there. This is so unrealistic that it should send a shiver down your spine. The terrorist just need to wait out the time and then come back into Iraq—how easy can we make it for them. Meanwhile we expand and go into Afghanistan and now Obama is saying Pakistan (which has nuclear weapons). Obama has a plan for “change” for America but you are going to be really surprised at the change, Angie. And, I did get my facts straight!

Posted by: Ann | July 19, 2008, 12:55 pm 12:55 pm

Obama—please put on a helmet and climb inside a tank for a photo op.

Posted by: cindy in nc | July 19, 2008, 12:59 pm 12:59 pm

Barack Obama is a wise man. I can’t wait until he’s president.

Posted by: Que | July 19, 2008, 12:59 pm 12:59 pm

With less than 4 months remaining until the election, General Obama has landed for ONE week to try to gain foreign policy/national security experience and to try to show some semblance of being a commander. And, he has 300 foreign policy advisers according to the media, and no two of them agree on anything. Thus, the Obama flip flops. Pray for America.

Posted by: benvictor | July 19, 2008, 1:00 pm 1:00 pm

The reason that so many leaders are willing to meet with J Wright’s flock member speaks very little of him, but much more of their respect for America, and how we have remained strong under George W Bush.

Posted by: Keepyourheelsdown | July 19, 2008, 1:01 pm 1:01 pm

paul – Do you have a problem with somebody running for leader of the free world seeking the advice and counsel of lots and lots of experts before making policy decisions that will affect the fate of millions of people?

Posted by: JimmyTMac | July 19, 2008, 1:05 pm 1:05 pm

Mccain has already met all of these foreign leaders. Been there done that. The only reason Nobama is going is for a political stunt. Kind of like when he told the fathers of black babies to be a father and stay home with your family. Bill Cosby did that 8 years ago, where was he then or where has he been with this unitl now.
The reason foreign leaders want to meet with him, they are feeling him out just in case we are dumb enough to elect him, they want to know how to walk all over him. Which is exactly what will happen. DO NOT VOTE FOR THIS BAFFOON.

Posted by: NOBAMA_never | July 19, 2008, 1:07 pm 1:07 pm

Paul- nope don’t have a problem with that just having a problem with the fact that after he gets all this info and is overwhelmed by all the different opinions. Where is his experience to make the right choice for america? If I were having a big operation I wouldn’t want an inexperienced doctor performing it just becasue he had some good advice. Think about it!

Posted by: julie | July 19, 2008, 1:10 pm 1:10 pm

yea i remember mccain going to afghanistan
lol what nope
he spent time in iraq like a moron… look how secure it is
fifty troops 3 black hawks… see its safe here
lol mccain is the most pathetic candidate i have ever seen

Posted by: bhrandon | July 19, 2008, 1:13 pm 1:13 pm

Obama: Still fooling some of the people all of the time!

Posted by: S | July 19, 2008, 1:14 pm 1:14 pm

he

Posted by: j | July 19, 2008, 1:15 pm 1:15 pm

Hey to all of you who say obama is for change. I think your right. Change is a great name for his campaign because that is all he has been doing. Changing his mind on everything and going back on his word already. Oh Yeah! I would want him as pres.. NOT!

Posted by: julie | July 19, 2008, 1:18 pm 1:18 pm

This shows which side BHO (Bone Headed Obama) is on? This also proves that his plan in in the best interest of Al-Maliki and not in the best interest of America.
What a joke BHO has become!

Posted by: CJ | July 19, 2008, 1:19 pm 1:19 pm

Barack the Vote Baby. Mc Cain wouldn’t know a good idea if it landed on him!
Boing!

Posted by: Joe Reed | July 19, 2008, 1:20 pm 1:20 pm

well angie

Posted by: julie | July 19, 2008, 1:23 pm 1:23 pm

even the democratic elected PM of iraq agrees with Obama, now start redrawing the troops in iraq, so that we can actually do what the troops were sent to the middle east to do, catch Osama, you know the one in Afganistan or Pakistan.

Posted by: johnosahon | July 19, 2008, 1:23 pm 1:23 pm

Angie-
What happens if WW3 should happen and for no fault of any american leader. Who would you rather have protecting us then. Some one with absolutely no clue on how to handle a situation like that and some one who would take the money from our defense fund to give it to more programs for people who don’t want to work hard for themselves. Come on!! Open your eyes- girl- think.

Posted by: julie | July 19, 2008, 1:27 pm 1:27 pm

angie
On what basis do you say McCain is a war monger?

Posted by: Keepyourheelsdown | July 19, 2008, 1:27 pm 1:27 pm

[[["Hell, if the phone rang at 3:00am," he'd be sucking his thumb.]]]
If the phone rang at 3:00am he’d be calling Hillary up to help him out.

Posted by: Dee-GA | July 19, 2008, 1:30 pm 1:30 pm

To our media – no matter how much you try to bully McCain with your one-sided new. Intergity will win!! Where were all of you when McCain went there. I thought you were to be fair. But again you prove yourself wrong.

Posted by: julie | July 19, 2008, 1:30 pm 1:30 pm

this was great. bye for now

Posted by: julie | July 19, 2008, 1:32 pm 1:32 pm

ANSWER: TO KEEP YOUR HEELS DOWN, WE BEEN PRAYING, LOOK WHO WE GOT GEORGE BUSH

Posted by: chu13ck | July 19, 2008, 1:32 pm 1:32 pm

McCain IS Dr, Strangelove. Does anyone remember that?

Posted by: J Robinson | July 19, 2008, 1:34 pm 1:34 pm

I hope Obama will be still a Senator after this election and see if he still travels over there to see the troops or hold any significant meetings.

Posted by: country voter | July 19, 2008, 1:34 pm 1:34 pm

CJ – I’d rather sign up for all that than 4 more years of George Bush.

Posted by: JimmyTMac | July 19, 2008, 1:34 pm 1:34 pm

Julie, Are you serious? You think that making a few jokes and saying that he won’t surrender makes him a war monger?
I would like to hear some adult arguments. Do you have any?
McCain never said that diplomacy never works. Do think that saying one knows how to win wars makes him a war monger? Surely you can do better than that.

Posted by: Keepyourheelsdown | July 19, 2008, 1:37 pm 1:37 pm

Ooops. I meant last post to angie. My mistake.

Posted by: Keepyourheelsdown | July 19, 2008, 1:39 pm 1:39 pm

CJ – There are a lot of things that are very wrong with this country right now. Even “true Americans” realize that. Some “true Americans” also realize that McCain probably won’t help things one bit and they can’t vote for him no matter what you say about his opponent. It’s as simple as that.

Posted by: JimmyTMac | July 19, 2008, 1:45 pm 1:45 pm

What is a “artificial” time line?
Senator Obama’s plans for a 16 month withdrawal have always included the flexibility to modify. Exact same as a “time horizon”. The Bush-McCain Administration has gone from 100 years in Iraq to a “time horizon”.
You say FLIP, and I’ll say FLOP.
The media’s tepid reporting of this story is HYSTERICAL! The Iraquis agree with Senator Obama.
Game. Set. Match.

Posted by: Nobodys fool | July 19, 2008, 1:53 pm 1:53 pm

Is anyone disturbed that McCain told the world yesterday Obama was embarking on his trip to the Middle East when it was suppose to be a secret for security purposes? Then some campaign spokesperson on McCain’s team says McCain was just speculating– Today Obama arrives in Kabul. A breach?
Or should it be noted as a slip of the tongue which equates bad judgement?
This is all quite distrubing to me?

Posted by: clarity | July 19, 2008, 1:55 pm 1:55 pm

cj
in a world of his own to bad hes not in reality like the rest of us he lives in mcbush world its ok cj we understand someone has to live in senoir moments!!!!!

Posted by: angie | July 19, 2008, 1:59 pm 1:59 pm

Clarity, it was no secret Obama was going on a trip to Afghanistan, Iraq and Europe. Everyone knew it. The 3 major networks are even sending their news anchors. Where is the secret here?

Posted by: Sandy | July 19, 2008, 2:00 pm 2:00 pm

CJ – I understand your position. Please understand mine. I know what McCain is all about. I know where he stands on the issues and I honestly disagree with him a great deal. I think his economic and foreign policies mirror those of George Bush’s just a little bit to close for my comfort. I think Bush’s policies have been a complete disaster and thus so will McCain’s. Obama on the other hand offers a new directions, something different. There’s a stark contrast between what’s been done the last 8 years and what he wants to do as president. And that what I want. A new direction, a change in economic policies and a change in foreign policies. If you want to call that waving a magic wand, that’s fine. Whatever it is I’m all for it.

Posted by: JimmyTMac | July 19, 2008, 2:01 pm 2:01 pm

the only requirement to be a repub is to be old dummy–mccain try so hard to copy obama—i think we all should call him the—SUPER PARROT—

Posted by: rodney | July 19, 2008, 2:01 pm 2:01 pm

CJ- When did Obama claim to be the Messiah, I believe it was you Republicans who placed all those titles on him. I agree with Phillip on all accounts. No one in their right minds want 4 more years of this mess.

Posted by: vote4peace | July 19, 2008, 2:03 pm 2:03 pm

CJ
since obama is empty suit what does that make mcdummy—-EMPTY HAT–???????????

Posted by: rodney | July 19, 2008, 2:04 pm 2:04 pm

CJ,
I understand. There is so much fake about the BHO candidacy. After all, he served in the senate for a whole year before he began his run. That’s 1/20 as long as he attended MR Wright’s so-called church.

Posted by: Keepyourheelsdown | July 19, 2008, 2:10 pm 2:10 pm

JimmyTMac: There NO PERFECT solution to the economic problme we have. But do not see how Obama’s econmic policies (are there any concrete ones really?) can help. ‘Individual own, small and mid-size businesses’ are the core of our economy. McCain’s plan boosts these businesses where are Obama’s crushes those. For working middle class folks like me – both Obama and MacCain offer the same i.e. maintain current Tax levels. But Obama promises to double the capital gain tax which is very harmful for the local and foreign onvestors. It will also devalue the dollar to the levels increasing prices of goods – which will again come and bite us Americans bad. You tell me one good thing about Obama’s so called economic plan but make sure to look at the plan taking current situation of the economy.

Posted by: CJ | July 19, 2008, 2:13 pm 2:13 pm

rodney: It is time to ignore your posts as they DO NOT have ANY SUBSTANCE – same as your beloved Bone Headed Obama. You dream on and go back to your Obama zombie state.

Posted by: CJ | July 19, 2008, 2:15 pm 2:15 pm

I like the side-view shot of the slowing walking pair with George Bush’s arm gently around the back of John McCain not unlike the caring doctor escorting his patient’s first outside walk around the grounds of the Happy Valley Sanitarium. Really a sight you want stuck in your mind on your way to the voting booth.

Posted by: ajaxtheleast | July 19, 2008, 2:17 pm 2:17 pm

Mark my words, Obama’s future diplomacy as President will be what causes Iran to change their tune regarding their nuclear ambitions. Iran will never give Bush and his clowns the satisfaction of ending this stalemate. Just like when Iran laughed in Jimmy Carter’s face with the hostages in 1980, not until Reagan took office and Carter was seen as a disgraced failure did Iran let the hostages go free. Iran would like nothing better then to wait until Bush is out of office before negotiating and resolving this. It would be seen as the ultimate slap to the Bush administration legacy.

Posted by: TampaJoey | July 19, 2008, 2:18 pm 2:18 pm

cool a two week summer course in foreign
policy. He is ready to be president now.

Posted by: kt | July 19, 2008, 2:18 pm 2:18 pm

When will Barrack and his media sycophants be arriving back in these “57″ United States of America? Remember “potatoe?”

Posted by: DonG | July 19, 2008, 2:23 pm 2:23 pm

cj–answer the question it is quite simple—no bs please. mccain is your hero and he is what he is–not very much–absolutely not smart enough to run our country—-he is just an older version of bushy—just answer the question.

Posted by: rodney | July 19, 2008, 2:30 pm 2:30 pm

CJ – I’m glad you’re willing to debate POLICY stances, which is what we should be talking about rather than where somebody went to church and who his so-called acquaintances are and what they did. McCain not only wants to extend Bush’s tax-cuts for the wealthy, but actually wants to give the weatlhy even more tax-cuts. These tax-cuts have done nothing but make the rich folks richer at the expense of us middle-classers. They have grown the national debt, not to mention failed to spur job growth. Obama says lets roll back those tax-cuts for the wealthy and give some tax relief to those who really need it. I can’t really argue against that since I’m one of those who need that tax relief. With regards to capital gains, Obama only wants to bring them back to the level they were at during the Clinton years, maybe a litte higher. And also, he only wants to raise on those making $250,000 a year or more. They can afford to suck it up. Don’t even get me started on coporate tax breaks. I can’t stomach any more tax breaks for Exxon. I think Obama is on the side of the middle-class, McCain wants to continue to look out for the wealthy and big business.

Posted by: JimmyTMac | July 19, 2008, 2:31 pm 2:31 pm

rodney: you showed your class and ignorance again by asking the question -”What republican have done…”. I am not a republican. I am an American. It is time that we forget what republican can do and what democrats will do. Energy policy is going to drive the economy up or down. McCain has the best energy policy. It all depends on what a ‘person’ can do as our president. That is why character and bi-partisan record is most important and on both McCain beats BHO with a HUGE margin.

Posted by: CJ | July 19, 2008, 2:32 pm 2:32 pm

DonG-
Thats all you can find to bash him on. You know darn well he was speaking about the number of primaries! Should we go over all the misspeaks of the other candidates during that time and after? Give it a rest.

Posted by: try the truth | July 19, 2008, 2:35 pm 2:35 pm

JimmyTMac: McCain is NOT going to raise the middle class taxes. Thus you and me should not worry. Obama’s capital gain tax will ‘FLUSH’ investors out of the stock market – which is suck up the ‘capital’ – and this economy will come an grinding halt without capital.

Posted by: CJ | July 19, 2008, 2:35 pm 2:35 pm

as crucial it is to those politician like mr brown and mr MCcain on accomplishing evrything for the Iraqis the afghans the czekoscovakians ect’ect’t I feel that it is crucial and more a obligation to Me to share and ask the American people to realy take a moment and look at thing not as usure to be in hence and be more cautious to ask and secure a better future for thamselfs the children’s and the children’s children’s we simply cant trust this empty retoric and unrealistics promess inymore ther-for we must vote for changed and so far only senator Obama have been sound.It’s time to see America and it’s children’s,so help us GOD and give us wisdom to walk.GOD Bless America Oh yes He Has and will.

Posted by: Ronald Roy | July 19, 2008, 2:36 pm 2:36 pm

CJ – Who are your trying to kid, you are a Republican, you just don’t want to claim to be one since they have been a disgrace, if not why do you keep using their Fox News talking points like: elistist and arrogrance. Let there be no mistake about it what Jesse Jackson (not JC Jackson) said is NOT going to stop African Americans from voting for Obama. Also, how about you try to answer the question Rodney posted for you instead of dodging it?

Posted by: vote4peace | July 19, 2008, 2:39 pm 2:39 pm

reaganrepublican – Reagan’s economic policies stunk almost as bad as Bush’s. If your memory serves you you’ll remember that the last recessions we had was during the Regan’s years. He represented the same old republican brand that has constantly screwed the middle-class. Talking about some phanton “trickle down” effect. If you don’t tax businesses then they’ll create jobs. What a load of bull. What Obama means by change? You just haven’t been listening.

Posted by: JimmyTMac | July 19, 2008, 2:40 pm 2:40 pm

Reaganrepublican: Explain exactly why you want to depend on a candidate who depends on Depends? And explain why you want to be a 3 time loser by voting for McCain, because it is so obvious that you voted for Bush both times.

Posted by: vote4peace | July 19, 2008, 2:43 pm 2:43 pm

Thsi is all for show! Obama knows “nothing” about this war. First he said we should pull out of Iraq, then he said he’ll leave it up to the armed forces. The guy’s nuts!!

Posted by: llasaap | July 19, 2008, 2:47 pm 2:47 pm

CJ – Remember how great the economy was during the Clinton years? It was the greatest period of econonmic growth and prosperity in this country in half a century. And you know what? Capital gains taxes were higher than they are now.

Posted by: JimmyTMac | July 19, 2008, 2:47 pm 2:47 pm

IIasaap: No one has to be a rocket scientist to know about this war. EVERYONE in their right minds knows about this war. The question is, what do you know about this war?

Posted by: vote4peace | July 19, 2008, 2:57 pm 2:57 pm

“Obama would not be able to go over their if it were not for the surge working”
With the plan to get out in 16 months Obama could go over there anytime.

Posted by: beaupritchard | July 19, 2008, 3:05 pm 3:05 pm

NOBAMA – And how exactly did invading Iraq make us safer? Answer? It didn’t. It was stupid.

Posted by: JimmyTMac | July 19, 2008, 3:06 pm 3:06 pm

Elagabalus – look it up

Posted by: Common Sense | July 19, 2008, 3:06 pm 3:06 pm

Rodney: You prove my point that McCain has much better and broad energy plan than the Bone Headed Obama. We need energy independence. McCain is saying that in addition to the alternate energy, green energy initiative (where BHO’s plan stops) we need to start drilling and generating nuclear power here in America. Technology has advanced so much that there is almost no environmental hazard in both. Thus Obama needs to get out of the 1970s thinking. McCain is also for the ‘clean coal’. Obama opposese drilling, clean coal, nuclear power etc. Thus who has better policies now?

Posted by: CJ | July 19, 2008, 3:09 pm 3:09 pm

I find conservative’s rhetoric myopic and narrow-minded. George W. Bush never traveled to Europe before he took office, yet there was no problem voting for HIS international expertise. Never travelled outside the US? Get a Passport. Experience other cultures and history (if the weak dollar permits). Come back home to the best country in the World. Then let’s talk when you have an well rounded perspective.

Posted by: Center One | July 19, 2008, 3:10 pm 3:10 pm

CJ – It sounds like you are looking for the perfect President,news flash…there isn’t one. Instead of focusing on capital gains taxes, how about how much more are we going to borrow from China to pay for Iraq, that’s far more important than some darn captial taxes.

Posted by: vote4peace | July 19, 2008, 3:11 pm 3:11 pm

CJ – Obama is not talking about doubling the capital gains tax, but rather restoring it to the 20% or so that existed during the Clinton years, potentially more but only on the wealty. I think the greatest hinderance of our economy is our growing national debt. I think the more money we owe, the weaker our dollar. Under McCain, that debt will continue to swell because he wants to cut taxes without having any way to pay for them. He wants to curb domestic speding and pork, but he makes it sound too simple. Obama will be guilty of raising the debt too, but McCain would be much worse.

Posted by: JimmyTMac | July 19, 2008, 3:13 pm 3:13 pm

cj
dont know where you got that from–obama stated months ago about wind power and such and was laughed at—-however we have 13 large wind generators in our area and 57 more under construction—i had to set people straight on that subject as they were totally ignorant—-we had nuclear pilot plant i believe in the sixties that ran on spent rods from conventional nuke plants–it was estimateed that if this tec was used we had enough sitting around to power our country for 1000 years-carter closed it down due to pressure from greenpeace—and slick willy had it torn down—-i would suspect by big oil and possible corruption.

Posted by: rodney | July 19, 2008, 3:18 pm 3:18 pm

It is obvious that the media is in love with this good for nothing, full of rethoric, flip flopper,zero experience mediocre candidate.Again liberal media at it’s best. Those of you voting for Obama will wish Bush will be back in power. There will be a lot of tears coming for you all. I’m packing.I’ll be better of in Central America…bye..

Posted by: don'tbelieveanything | July 19, 2008, 3:18 pm 3:18 pm

JimmyTMac: Obama has said that he will raise the capital gains tax all the up to 28% if necessary. He also wants to raise the payroll taxes which hurts the individual/small/mediam business owners.

Posted by: CJ | July 19, 2008, 3:19 pm 3:19 pm

Angie:
Since 99% of Obama’s policies are actually xerox copies of Hillary’s policies…….
It would mean that Bush and McCain are actually agreeing with her…not Obama.

Posted by: Lee | July 19, 2008, 3:20 pm 3:20 pm

bush back in power mcbush—what a nightmare—to many bumps on head

Posted by: rodney | July 19, 2008, 3:20 pm 3:20 pm

don’tbelieveanything: I don’t believe anything you just said.

Posted by: vote4peace | July 19, 2008, 3:22 pm 3:22 pm

alchemist
you must realize some people never learn.

Posted by: rodney | July 19, 2008, 3:23 pm 3:23 pm

lee
i hope you are not trying to raise the dead again.

Posted by: rodney | July 19, 2008, 3:24 pm 3:24 pm

Jtmac- have we been hit at home since 9/11. We are destroying the enemy on their home front not ours. Or would you prefer to have them fighting on our soil. I guess it would have been ok to go into Darfur with all the genocide that was going on their. But not IRAQ. Answer that one. Why would we complain about IRAQ but support going into Darfur. NOBAMA the NOexperience candidate.

Posted by: NOBAMA | July 19, 2008, 3:26 pm 3:26 pm

vote4peace: Does it make any difference if I am a republican or democrat or independent? I only understand that we need ‘qualified’ person in office and OBAMA is NOT qualified and can not be trusted due to his left-wing, anit-american associations. Being a president of the most powerful job is not a joke. What qualification does Obama has – other that a couple of cute speeches? Democrats already made one HUGE mistake by selecting Obama over Hillary. No we do not want to repeat the mistake by slecting Obama over McCain. This is the time to correct it.

Posted by: CJ | July 19, 2008, 3:26 pm 3:26 pm

Not trying to raise the dead….
Just give credit where credit is due…

Posted by: Lee | July 19, 2008, 3:27 pm 3:27 pm

Lee: It means that Bush and McCain are both agreeing with a DEMOCRAT!!

Posted by: vote4peace | July 19, 2008, 3:27 pm 3:27 pm

Those fighters in iraq is laying low , it has nothing to do with any surge working.
they know we are in a climate of a election , they will go nuts if Mccain gets in, and say we need to stay in their land permanent.

Posted by: ryan | July 19, 2008, 3:31 pm 3:31 pm

hey nobama
bush senior stayed out of iraq because he knew what the consequences would be and left sadam with enough army to keep iran at bay—–but his son is an IDIOT—the terrorist are not from iraq–but they are now.

Posted by: rodney | July 19, 2008, 3:31 pm 3:31 pm

CJ – Yes it does make a difference if you are a democrat, republican or independent if your own words says you are not. Your words determines if you’re credible or not. So far you’re not. Again NO ONE in their RIGHT mind would vote for 4 more years of this mess.

Posted by: vote4peace | July 19, 2008, 3:34 pm 3:34 pm

Hooray! I think Obama’s good judgment is showing. He knows that an endless occupation of Iraq does nothing but spend taxpayers money–does not help our security or the Iraqis. Keep up the good work, Obama!

Posted by: anotherpatricia | July 19, 2008, 3:36 pm 3:36 pm

vote4peace:
You say that like it’s a bad thing…..

Posted by: Lee | July 19, 2008, 3:37 pm 3:37 pm

i almost wish obama would not win—as he will get the blame for the last 8 years of total sellout and screwups—to many like mccain CANNOT REMEMBER FROM ONE DAY TO THE NEXT.

Posted by: rodney | July 19, 2008, 3:38 pm 3:38 pm

vote4peace: Last thougt. If you are an Obama supporter then please DO NOT talk about credibility because that is what BHO DOES NOT have. Any proud American will trust McCain over Obama on ‘credibility’. And by the way I am an American who does not believe in partisanship.

Posted by: CJ | July 19, 2008, 3:38 pm 3:38 pm

CJ – And Obama will still be president despite all that? Can you believe it? Thanks for your input.

Posted by: JimmyTMac | July 19, 2008, 3:39 pm 3:39 pm

CJ
IF YOU WANT TO BE OBJECTIVE KEEP IT SHORT AND TO THE POINT—OR NO ONE WILL READ IT.

Posted by: rodney | July 19, 2008, 3:40 pm 3:40 pm

CJ _ Obama has far more credibility than McCain, just ask McCain’s first wife.

Posted by: vote4peace | July 19, 2008, 3:41 pm 3:41 pm

vote4peace:
9/11 happened under every American’s watch.
We are all in this together……..

Posted by: Lee | July 19, 2008, 3:43 pm 3:43 pm

Lee: I didn’t say it like it was a bad thing, don’t fool yourself.

Posted by: vote4peace | July 19, 2008, 3:45 pm 3:45 pm

vote4peace: My long post shows why Obama does NOT have credibility. Please prove how Obama has more credibility than McCain rather than making a statement.

Posted by: CJ | July 19, 2008, 3:47 pm 3:47 pm

Now that Obama has set foot in Afghanistan will he be called an expert? One visit does it all, right?? Ok Obie, shoot your mouth off. What a genius!!!
Quarar

Posted by: Joseph Buttice | July 19, 2008, 3:47 pm 3:47 pm

Lance – The writing is on the wall. Everybody knows who’s election this is to lose. Don’t fight it. 9 out of 10 smart people agree.

Posted by: JimmyTMac | July 19, 2008, 3:48 pm 3:48 pm

PHILLIP GREEN
F-A-I-L-U-R-E I-S N-O-T A-N O-P-T-I-O-N

Posted by: rodney | July 19, 2008, 3:49 pm 3:49 pm

NOBAMA – I think you’ve been successfully been brainwashed by Cheney and Rove. I can sit here and absolutely positively assert without any shadow of a doubt that the United States of American would never under any circumstance ever have sent 150,000 American troops to Darfur. Nor would Obama or any democrat support that. Spend a trillion dollars? Don’t make me laugh. There’s a huge difference between and intervention and an all out invasion. What we did to Iraq? An all out ivasion? What was proposed for Darfur? Just an intervention. Must like the U.S. has done in the past in places like Somalia.

Posted by: JimmyTMac | July 19, 2008, 3:54 pm 3:54 pm

vote4peace:
I am no fan of Bush. Quite the contrary.
But blaming him for 9/11 is like blaming JFK and LBJ for Vietnam, and FDR for Pearl Harbor and our entrance into WWII.
These events were all the result of problems that existed elsewhere in the world that eventually ended up in America’s lap, and unfortunately and regretfully, in our own backyard.

Posted by: Lee | July 19, 2008, 3:54 pm 3:54 pm

vote4peace: Unfortunately for you to know – 25% of Hillary supporters are already in McCain camp and the number is growing – as we all know more and more about BHO’s inabilities, inexperience and ant-american policies and friends.

Posted by: CJ | July 19, 2008, 3:59 pm 3:59 pm

The Iraqis (those folks that are on the ground who should know best about when an uninvited occupation of their country should terminate)agree with Barack Obama. So, only fools insist on staying longer.

Posted by: lockes_ghost | July 19, 2008, 4:01 pm 4:01 pm

CJ – Correction, 25% of Hillary’s FORMER supporters are voting for McCain whereas 75% of her REAL supporters are voting Democrat.

Posted by: vote4peace | July 19, 2008, 4:06 pm 4:06 pm

vote4peace: Correction not accepted. The true Americans who ARE Hillary supporters – who vote based on candidate’s ability, character, experience and patriotism will vote for McCain (as Hillary is no more a choice) and will always stay loyal to Hillary. The DNC screwed this election up and we will not let them mess with America.

Posted by: CJ | July 19, 2008, 4:11 pm 4:11 pm

CJ _ How has McCain distanced himself from Bush when he agreed with him 95% of the time?

Posted by: vote4peace | July 19, 2008, 4:12 pm 4:12 pm

CJ – McCain has distanced and differenciated a lot from Bush? Then how do you explain him voting with Bush 90% of the time in the Senate in 2007? Doesn’t sound very different. And as far the dems getting it wrong by rejecting Hillary, that’s certainly a matter of minority opinion.

Posted by: JimmyTMac | July 19, 2008, 4:12 pm 4:12 pm

CJ – You are so wrong. The TRUE Hillary supporters are with her through thick and thin, and would want to help keep all her hard work alive. The FORMER supporters are possibly going to McCain or staying home.

Posted by: vote4peace | July 19, 2008, 4:14 pm 4:14 pm

Wow, disagree with Obama and his policies, but lay off the business of calling him unpatriotic. That’s unamerican and wrong.

Posted by: Former PUMA | July 19, 2008, 4:15 pm 4:15 pm

Wow, disagree with Obama and his policies, but lay off the business of calling him unpatriotic. That’s unamerican and wrong.

Posted by: Former PUMA | July 19, 2008, 4:15 pm 4:15 pm

If you obama supporters can name five important things that his holiness has accomplished in his life I would be amazed, because he has not accomplished anything in the state senate or the US senate or as a community organizer what ever the hell that is. Grow up he is full of bull

Posted by: johna | July 19, 2008, 4:15 pm 4:15 pm

Well I see that the haters are up and at ‘em once again…lol. Looks like GWB has agreed to talks with Iran….something Obama said should have happened a long time ago….again proving himself smart. This trip abroad will solidify his standing as our next President. He will be warmly embraced at every stop. Barack has elevated himself in the eyes of not just this country but the world as well….and deservingly so. All of you people that hate on Barack because he is not Hillary are just ignorant. Just admit you are a republican and spare us all the BS. Obama ’08

Posted by: the motorcity kid | July 19, 2008, 4:19 pm 4:19 pm

If you look at the polls of key swing states, Obama just might blow McCain out. It’s early, but the potential is there. Obama is consistenly running ahead in all the Kerry states plus NM, OH and even some red states. I like his chances a lot. Especially as the economy continues to crumble. As the economy tumbles so does McCain’s chances and that’s the truth.

Posted by: JimmyTMac | July 19, 2008, 4:19 pm 4:19 pm

Rodney – that’s turning out to be so true, because no one in their RIGHT mind would want 4 more years Republican rule. All respect goes to those former Republicans though, because at least they are honest & adult enough to admit where the country has gone wrong and are voting for change this time around.

Posted by: vote4peace | July 19, 2008, 4:20 pm 4:20 pm

CJ – I can defend all of it. It’s BS. It’s propaganda. It’s right-wing conspiracy. It’s half-truths and prejudicial. And nobody cares. How’s that?

Posted by: JimmyTMac | July 19, 2008, 4:27 pm 4:27 pm

vote4peace: The bone headed title is already taken by your Obama. Looks like you and Rodney like ot live in 70s and 80s like Obama and his radical friends. You guys need to start living in today’s world and then you will see why McCain is the better choice we have now (Hillary would have been the best)

Posted by: CJ | July 19, 2008, 4:35 pm 4:35 pm

TakeAmericaBHO: Not so fast. You need to learn geography first then economy. BHO is still Afganisthan and Kuwait is in middle east.

Posted by: CJ | July 19, 2008, 4:45 pm 4:45 pm

Just remember, Obama is for change. What kind of change–dunno. What is he gonna change–dunno. What has he done in the past–dunno. What will he do if elected president–CHANGE!! Change what–dunno. what kind of change–dunno. But if he is elected president he will CHANGE———

Posted by: Tom | July 19, 2008, 4:46 pm 4:46 pm

CJ – You’re voting for the one who says he’s knows little about the economy, so that “wake up and start understanding more about the economy” should be directed to McCain. Talk about boneheaded.

Posted by: vote4peace | July 19, 2008, 4:51 pm 4:51 pm

Tom – The one major thing Obama is going to change is the WORLD perception of us because right now they think we are ALL idiots, and what we have to do is show them it’s was just the Republicans who are. What message are we going to send if McCain wins.

Posted by: vote4peace | July 19, 2008, 4:57 pm 4:57 pm

vote4peace: The fact is that whatever little McCain knows about economy is still much much better than what Obama knows about economy or foreign policy or national security (combined) today.
Thus my judgement is right. Again we would have been much better with Hillary but McCain is only better choice left. Al Gore could have been my second best choice to Hillary.

Posted by: CJ | July 19, 2008, 4:57 pm 4:57 pm

vote4peace: How will Obama change the world perception about us? dunno…

Posted by: CJ | July 19, 2008, 4:59 pm 4:59 pm

BHO mislead the liberals and african americans to cheat to the nomination. Now he knows that the southern states are republican thus he does not need the african american vote. Similarly he does not need to court the liberals are they would prefer democrats over republicans and even if they stay home it will be a very small percentage. Who does Obama need now – the white votes and women votes. That is why this opportunistic politician is moving towards center. What a crook!

Posted by: CJ | July 19, 2008, 5:06 pm 5:06 pm

vote4peace: Talk substance please. Still can not come with a single reason to defend BHO on the TRUE statements I made earlier – huh?

Posted by: CJ | July 19, 2008, 5:08 pm 5:08 pm

The polls don’t lie. The world will continue to hate America if Obama is not elected.

Posted by: JimmyTMac | July 19, 2008, 5:13 pm 5:13 pm

CJ – You don’t really think McCain will win the women vote do you? You know better than that. A majority of them like the right to choose. It’s been studied.

Posted by: JimmyTMac | July 19, 2008, 5:16 pm 5:16 pm

I love McCain

Posted by: Andy | July 19, 2008, 5:20 pm 5:20 pm

vote4peace said: The one major thing Obama is going to change is the WORLD perception of us because right now they think we are ALL idiots, and what we have to do is show them it’s was just the Republicans who are. What message are we going to send if McCain wins.
I am always amazed at the distortions presented by using the words “All, never, always, not a single one, etc.”
If the world thinks ALL Americans are idiots, then that would include Obama, his wife, the senate, the congress, and the list goes on. Because ALL of us are idiots, right? And as for it being JUST the Republicans? Again, in your desire to “present” the truth, you distort your own answers with absolutes that simply, are NOT true.

Posted by: Jill | July 19, 2008, 5:21 pm 5:21 pm

It’s about time Barry visits Afgahnistan. Since he is the chairperson on a subcommitte on Afgahnistan. Maybe when he comes back, he will have it’s first meeting. Just took two years to do it. Maybe he’ll learn why he can’t go in and just bomb Pakistan either. I hope he’ll get a lesson on it’s history. This guy is getting on the job training. Why would a Board of directors give someone the CEO position if he has only a 160 days with the company?!(He doesn’t have enough to get vacation time.) Obama will find out it’s not that easy as saying “change” during primaries as to real governance. I can see the Sat. night skit when Obama calls W at 3:00am asking what to do. I’m loving it.

Posted by: justright | July 19, 2008, 5:22 pm 5:22 pm

I love Obama. He is the best and most intelligent future president we had in long, long time.
He not only knows what he is doing but he knows how to deal with the things to come.
He is a great strategist.

Posted by: Andy | July 19, 2008, 5:22 pm 5:22 pm

Jill – FYI, the European headline stated HOW CAN 52 MILLION BE SO STUPID. Unfortunately they view us all as one, so don’t blame me for the world perception.

Posted by: vote4peace | July 19, 2008, 5:26 pm 5:26 pm

Andy said: “I love Obama. He is the best and most intelligent future president we had in long, long time.
He not only knows what he is doing but he knows how to deal with the things to come.
He is a great strategist.”
Andy, I certainly value your right to your own opinion. However, I would very much like to know exactly what he has “strategized” on? Englighten me.

Posted by: Jill | July 19, 2008, 5:26 pm 5:26 pm

CJ – I’m talking facts. Facts based on current public opinion based on repuatable polls. The polls consistently show Obama with a 2-1 edge over McCain among woment voters. You know what means? It means that they’re not a bitter over Hillary as you would like them be. The same goes for world opinion. Obama is consistently ahead of McCain in overseas polls. Wake up and smell the change. It’s clearly on people’s minds.

Posted by: JimmyTMac | July 19, 2008, 5:30 pm 5:30 pm

CJ – You are just another out of touch Republican, the dollar is the weakest it ever been. What are you talking about? If our own approval rating of Bush is in the low 20′s, what makes you the think the world opinion of us so high. All the things you state only proves loud and clear, YOU WERE NEVER A DEMOCRAT. The World doesn’t hate us because we are a super power, they hate us because they feel we are bullies. How much of a super power are we now that we owe China trillions of dollars?

Posted by: vote4peace | July 19, 2008, 5:34 pm 5:34 pm

Jill: Aren’t we supposed to be considered the UNITED States of America, or do you think they take the time to single out each and everyone of us who did or didn’t vote Bush. They consider us as one. If the world loved us so much there wouldn’t have been a 9/11 or any other acts of terrorism in the first place. Wake up.

Posted by: vote4peace | July 19, 2008, 5:39 pm 5:39 pm

JimmyTMac: I can smell the change but it smells really bad. I do not belive in polls so early in the election. If these polls are true in October then I will agree. I was giving you my reasoning behind why women will vote for McCain and I stand by it. Wait until the DNC convention. There is a 2 million+ group of women led by a New Yorker

Posted by: CJ | July 19, 2008, 5:43 pm 5:43 pm

CJ – It’s early but time is actually on Obama’s side with regards to this issue. Hillary supporters still have time to cool off even more and to start seeing things clearly, meaning to stop blaming the establishment for Hillary’s campaign failures.

Posted by: JimmyTMac | July 19, 2008, 5:51 pm 5:51 pm

Mr. Obama bubble is about to burst. The former ‘community organizer’ has adopted the reckless national-security advice of George Soros and MoveOn.org in order to win nomination. He continuously speaks about the lack of judgement of those supporting victory in Iraq, yet he’s continually demonstrated his lack of judgement on the most obvious–denouncing the surge not a month after it started, insisting on time-lines for withdrawal before meeting with commanders on the ground announcing a willingness to meet with dictators and despots unconditionally.

Posted by: jp,michigan | July 19, 2008, 5:58 pm 5:58 pm

Jill: What are you talking about, seems to me that you are the naive one, if you think that America hasn’t ruffled anyones feathers enough for them to want to attack us in the first place, so talk what you know.

Posted by: vote4peace | July 19, 2008, 6:00 pm 6:00 pm

Gee, Vote..We aren’t #1? Gosh, and here I thought China was still a communist country who trampled on the rights of its citizens and murdered hundred of thousands when they didn’t see things “their way” and only allowed their folks to have ONE child…but again. I could be wrong. As for there being homelessness, crime, financial worries…Yes, they exist here. And they always will. But what you seem to so easily overlook (and I must admit your naive outlook is refreshing), we are FREE. When was the last time a MAJOR government called on China to bail em out of any trouble?
China is a MAJOR economic factor in this global economic schematic. BUT, the fact remains they are NOT a free country and that fact, in MY humble opinion, takes them out of the running for the #1 spot. But don’t worry about any of this, cause when Obama wins, well he’s gonna change all that. He told us so. And he may just free China to boot!

Posted by: Jill | July 19, 2008, 6:01 pm 6:01 pm

OBAMA TRIPS HURTS – How much is this war costing, and we is this money come from? How much do we owe China again?

Posted by: vote4peace | July 19, 2008, 6:02 pm 6:02 pm

Jill: Lastly, I didn’t say that Europe counts as the rest of the world, I thought your mind was opened enough to pick this up, guess not, so I’ll explain it in easy terms, they are just a sample of what others in the WORLD thinks of us.

Posted by: vote4peace | July 19, 2008, 6:08 pm 6:08 pm

so the iraqi prime minister feels the iraqis can secure their own country and agrees with sen. obama that US troops can start coming home safely within the next 16 months. hmmm. so, what exactly are we still doing there nearly six years later?
mccain: a good man, but way past his prime

Posted by: bush's third term | July 19, 2008, 6:10 pm 6:10 pm

Not to take anything away from Obama – but this the first year on earth that I am ashamed of the press and those who run it.
They are so slanted in their views it has become obvious to all. What ever happened to reporting the news?? To report Obama made a three pointer is taking it a bit far. Bet you would not have reported it if he missed?
That why we all miss Tim Russert – but the press is too stupid to figure that out. He was fair – he didn’t make the news he reported it. They called Tom back why I will never know for all the good it did. They might as well put Gregory or the fool Obermann in charge of Meet the Press.
My only hope is that some day the press become a news agency again instead of a bunch of readers with their own personal slant on everything and always left of center.
If we were to back into history many of these so called reporter/readers would have been fired if not tried for treason. Yes treason – its not such a huge reach.
So to all you reporter/readers shame on you – a most un-American bunch of losers – I am not alone – or some nut – why do you think the democratic congress is rated so low? I guess the great unwashed know something after all.

Posted by: a citizen | July 19, 2008, 6:18 pm 6:18 pm

Not to take anything away from Obama – but this the first year on earth that I am ashamed of the press and those who run it.
They are so slanted in their views it has become obvious to all. What ever happened to reporting the news?? To report Obama made a three pointer is taking it a bit far. Bet you would not have reported it if he missed?
That why we all miss Tim Russert – but the press is too stupid to figure that out. He was fair – he didn’t make the news he reported it. They called Tom back why I will never know for all the good it did. They might as well put Gregory or the fool Obermann in charge of Meet the Press.
My only hope is that some day the press become a news agency again instead of a bunch of readers with their own personal slant on everything and always left of center.
If we were to back into history many of these so called reporter/readers would have been fired if not tried for treason. Yes treason – its not such a huge reach.
So to all you reporter/readers shame on you – a most un-American bunch of losers – I am not alone – or some nut – why do you think the democratic congress is rated so low? I guess the great unwashed know something after all.

Posted by: a citizen | July 19, 2008, 6:18 pm 6:18 pm

Well Americans want us to leave Iraq, Obama wants us to leave Iraq, the Prime Minster of Iraq wants us to leave Iraq, and Iraqis want us to leave Iraq who is not on board with the plan…

Posted by: Jason | July 19, 2008, 6:24 pm 6:24 pm

CJ IS LIKE BEANS AT A BANQUET–no smoke but a whole lot of smelly gas.

Posted by: rodney | July 19, 2008, 6:27 pm 6:27 pm

jason
follow the money—who is bidding on the oil in iraq?????????

Posted by: rodney | July 19, 2008, 6:29 pm 6:29 pm

THE SUCCESSFUL BUSH PLAN THAT OBAMA REJECTED AND SAID HAD FAILED–NAMELY, THE “SURGE,” NOW MAKES I VERY POSSIBLE FOR THE U.S. TO START WITHDRAWLING TROOPS—OBAMA CLAIMS CREDIT FOR FOR SOMETHING HE HAD NO HAND IN. THIS IS DISHONEST AND NOT PRESIDENTIAL! OBAMA SHOULD BE A MAN AND GIVE BUSH AND THE MILITARY THE CREDIT THEY DESERVE !!!

Posted by: COLOGERO | July 19, 2008, 6:42 pm 6:42 pm

obama is a puppet
—–i guess that makes mccain the DUMMY

Posted by: rodney | July 19, 2008, 6:43 pm 6:43 pm

COLOGERO—–JUST IN TIME FOR ELECTION HOW CONVENIENT AFTER 5 YEARS—JUST CALL IT THE FLUSH

Posted by: rodney | July 19, 2008, 6:45 pm 6:45 pm

It’s good that McCain, Bush and Nouri al-Maliki, all see the wisdom in the Obama policy. What upsets me the most about this trip is the fact that John McCain released their travel itinerary before hand. This is absolutely against military protocol and has placed not only Senator Obama in possible danger, but all who are traveling with him. One would expect more from someone such as McCain who touts his military experience. What would happen if he were to become President when he can’t be trusted to keep something as simple as a travel itinerary secret?

Posted by: devilkev | July 19, 2008, 6:52 pm 6:52 pm

IT IS GOOD that Obama sees the wisdom of McCain, Bush and Maliki’s policy so that when we DO leave Iraq, it will be perceived as from a position of strength rather of weakness.
HILLARY OR MCCAIN
BUT ALWAYS…..
COUNTRY BEFORE BROKEN DOWN PARTY!!!

Posted by: hmmmmmm | July 19, 2008, 6:56 pm 6:56 pm

MCCAIN HAS ENOUGH PROBLEM FINDING THE BATHROOM—-SURE HOPE YOU ARE NOT GIVING HIM CREDIT FOR SOMETHING INTELLIGENT—-WOW

Posted by: rodney | July 19, 2008, 6:59 pm 6:59 pm

lou
the last 8 years have been a real experience

Posted by: rodney | July 19, 2008, 7:02 pm 7:02 pm

hmmmmmm—mccain is a parrot absolutely not smart enough to have any intelligent thought—–as for pulling strings—that would be theorapy for the old geser

Posted by: rodney | July 19, 2008, 7:05 pm 7:05 pm

hmmmmmmm—–is the puppetmaster –but that is a private thing

Posted by: rodney | July 19, 2008, 7:13 pm 7:13 pm

Don’t ask Don’t tell is a really really stupid policy.

Posted by: JimmyTMac | July 19, 2008, 7:16 pm 7:16 pm

linda
it has been that way for a very long time—-

Posted by: rodney | July 19, 2008, 7:22 pm 7:22 pm

and a few other freaks—limbaugh –rove

Posted by: rodney | July 19, 2008, 7:25 pm 7:25 pm

This unprecedented, uneven coverage of McCain v. Obama is the ultimate, undebatable proof of the media bias for Obama and against anyone challenging his empty rhetoric.
Significant news coverage of Obama is swept under the rug. Look up the story about how $100,000 grant for a garden project that Obama secured as a local politician in Illinois went unaccounted for. Obama’s response (through spokesman) was that Obama was not responsible for monitoring the work.
Wake up, people. Empty promises. If he can’t oversee a garden project, how do you expect him to run this country, in what is the most important & challenging position in the world?!

Posted by: Sue | July 19, 2008, 7:34 pm 7:34 pm

hey junior
MY FAMOUS WORDS—WHAT THE HELL ARE WE DOING THERE—-most military personel feel the same but obey orders as they should.their job

Posted by: rodney | July 19, 2008, 7:36 pm 7:36 pm

sue
how do you feel about mccain in canada telling us that due to nafta we are living in an era of prosperity.

Posted by: rodney | July 19, 2008, 7:39 pm 7:39 pm

AT LEAST OBAMA IS NOT HIDING ON A MILITARY BASE, LIKE BUSH DID.

Posted by: CHUCK | July 19, 2008, 7:43 pm 7:43 pm

Of course we all realize that Maliki, an elected official, would never say for public consumption that isn’t the whole unvarnished truth.
He would never say anything publically solely to pander to the people who have the power to keep him in office or boot him out.
He would never say anything carefully constructed to avoid giving offense whoever might be the next President of the U.S.
No, of course not. Only American politicians pander, tell half-truths and hedge their bets.
And if you believe all that, you really, really need to get out more.

Posted by: MizFW | July 19, 2008, 7:46 pm 7:46 pm

let me put it this way—–the old dinosaures have to go –the world is getting more and more complicated–and requires a younger better thinking well educated person–it is time we get past the race color or crede thing—–believe i know —AND I FELT THE SAME WAY WHEN I VOTED FOR JFK–TELLS YOU SOMETHING DONT IT.

Posted by: rodney | July 19, 2008, 7:47 pm 7:47 pm

Maybe the White House needs to email ABC News again… they seem to think that a tropical storm off in the Atlantic is the news of the day

Posted by: Cornfields | July 19, 2008, 7:48 pm 7:48 pm

JUNIOR
I can’t read your ALL CAPS very well. Would you type normally? Thanks!

Posted by: Keepyourheelsdown | July 19, 2008, 7:50 pm 7:50 pm

Rodney,
What do you mean by old dinosores? Are you saying that older people arent as qualified to lead as younger people?
Obama is giving us the same OLD ideas. I am tired of reactionaries like him pretending to be progressive.

Posted by: Keepyourheelsdown | July 19, 2008, 7:52 pm 7:52 pm

HEYWHEELS
MCCAIN CANNOT AT TIMES KEEP A TRAIN OF THOUGHT—-if you think bush is bad this guy is far worse—–age is a fact of life and mccain is not to swift to start with—–read my last post carefully an perhaps you will understand–i know his whole history—if it insults you so be it.

Posted by: rodney | July 19, 2008, 7:57 pm 7:57 pm

Mccain wouldn’t have time to tell jokes if the media would take the microscope off of Obama and reported to the public that Mccains economic advisor Phil Graham who called Americans, “A nation of Whinners” also worked on Mccain tax policies while the Chairman of USB Bank. The controversial USB Bank that helped wealthy Americans evade billions of dollars in taxes leaving the hardworking middle class shouldering the burden. We’ll that explains why Mccain’s tax policies designed by Graham give the wealthiest Americans tax credits. As much as I heard the comments the Nation of Whinners I never knew that Phil Graham was the Chairman of the USB Bank. Now this is a perfect example of how much the media focuses on Obama and hangs on to his every word while the Mccain camps get away with conspiracies like this. Phil Graham = Tax loop holes for the Wealthiest Americans and John Mccain signed on to the program but talks about how he understand how Americans are suffering due to the our failing economy. What more does it take for anybody to see what a fraud Mccain really is?

Posted by: Greg | July 19, 2008, 8:02 pm 8:02 pm

Whatever direction the political wind blows, I’ll be voting for my country, not my party. If given a choice, I would prefer a liar for President than a hypocrite. But when Obama is both, his political wind blows in no direction and in every direction.

Posted by: young_voter | July 19, 2008, 8:09 pm 8:09 pm

Linda says “In watching Obama coming in to speak to the troops in Afganistan,I could not help but notice that the majority of troops he was shown shaking hands with were African-American. I also heard on your nightly news cast that he will restore homosexuals to our military as well as to everything else in America,which I assume includes the White House. Guess he doesn’t believe in the teachings of the Bible. I am so glad that I am a Republican.” That’s the problem with some people like yourself they hide behind identity politics, when the only problem you and others have, is that you are racist and intolerant of others. Whether you like or dislike someone because of their race our sexual preference it has nothng to do with being a Democrat or a Republican. Just ask Larry Craig! I’m a Democrat and I dont agree with the Homosexual life style, the majority of Americans dont agree with the homosexual life style but the majority of Americans have someone who is gay our lesbian and understand that they just want to live their lifes and be happy just like straight people. We all have to live with eachother and respect the fact that we are all not going to agree on everthing but we should never preach hate or descrimanation against someone who may be Gay, white, or black. Let God do the judgeing on judgement day! Like I said it’s ok to agree and disagree, we are not a bunch of mindless robots but all we have to do is treat people with respect and live a life that we can live with and die with. Obama08/16.

Posted by: ORLANDO B. FROM FREMONT OHIO | July 19, 2008, 8:23 pm 8:23 pm

Bush’s years have not been too bad? What planet have you been living on? One of the bottom ten presidents in history! Obama is one of the brightest minds in the county! As a Ind. voter there is little choice this time, Obama!

Posted by: richard in chandler az | July 19, 2008, 9:06 pm 9:06 pm

NO MATTER WHAT IS BEING POSTED HERE.ANY ONE WITH COMMON SENSE KNOWS THAT THE CRITERIA OF MAKING A GOOD PRESIDENT BASED BOTH ON ECONOMY OR FOREIGN AFFAIRS HAVE BEEN MET SQUARELY BY SEN.OBAMA! THOSE PREREQUISITES ARE SMARTNESS AND VISION! MCCAIN IS NOT ONLY AFFECTED BY HIS AGE WHICH IS A BIG PROBLEME THIS TIME!AMERICA IS NOT RELAXED AND PROSPEROUS THIS TIME.THE PROBLEMS DEMANDS A SMART(QUICK AND RIGHT THINKER)AND DYNAMIC YOUNG PRESIDENT! NOT MCCAIN,WHO SAYS “WE ARE BETTER OF, HE NEEDS EDUCATION ON ECONOMY” AT THIS FIERCE STATE OF URGENCY? THAT “WORKERS AND JOBLESS ARE COMPLAINERS AND WHINNERS”? READY TO DISTABILISE AMERICA BY SUGGESTING RUSSIA GOT TO BE EJECTED OUT OF G8?AT A POINT WE NEED RUSSIANS ON SECURITY ISSUES? UNFORTUNATELY,MOST UNEDUCATED THINK MCCAIN IS QUALIFIED FOR HAVING BEEN IN ANOTHER WRONG WAR (VIETNAM). VERY WRONG!THE KEY IS HOW GOOD AND SMART,NOT HOW LONG YOU´VE BEEN AROUND! OTHERWISE BUSH CAN AS WELL CONTINUE A THIRD TERM AS HE APPEARS TO BE BETTER THAN MCCAIN.AT LEAST HE CARES TO THINK A BIT!

Posted by: JUNIOR | July 19, 2008, 9:26 pm 9:26 pm

Obama was right. Afghanistan was left to flounder while we attacked Iraq for no real reason. There weren’t Al Qaeda terrorists in Iraq before we invaded the second time.
We created a country that will at least tilt toward Iran.
More likely thanks to Bush/McCain we will re-imagine “peace with honor” and leave Iran in the driver seat.
The best case will be effectively a three province partitioned country with Shiites, Sunnis and the guys up in the north who Turkey doesn’t like.
Fools seem to claim the country is better. It is better than the mess we created but one can truly argue if the citizens are better off after 5 years of the chaos we caused versus Saddam running things.

Posted by: Last Call | July 19, 2008, 9:32 pm 9:32 pm

Where was he in the past 3.5 years, while he was the chairman overseeing NATO politicies and Afghanistan. Now, it is he who has been right again.
Phony.

Posted by: fact check | July 19, 2008, 9:59 pm 9:59 pm

Just hope Obama is paying for this trip.. I certainly hope when McCain and Obama go overseas, they are both paying for this on there own. We Americans can bearly pay for gas food and fuel never mind trips overseas for 2 men that are neither one a president.. And just think Obama made 52 million dollars for his campaign in 30 days, I know he can certainly afford to pay and think of all this free publicity he is getting, Im waiting for the Obama concert to start scheduling his concerts..

Posted by: bete | July 19, 2008, 10:02 pm 10:02 pm

Once again the Iraqi Prime Minister has validated the correctness of Obama’s ideas. While Bush and McSame talk of staying in Iraq the Iraqi government is saying “give a withdrawal timetable” We need a young smart president to replace the abject failure we now have.

Posted by: pieceof cake | July 19, 2008, 10:43 pm 10:43 pm

TheObama is in Afghanistan. Is he going to finally hold a hearing for the Aghanistan committee he has headed for the past three years with no thought whatsoever. Perhaps the Obama can teach the poor Afghans how to put the ball through the hoop, thereby bringing them peace.
=======================================
Bring the Obama back safely, oh Lord, for the sake of the zombies
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Posted by: WestCoastMessenger | July 20, 2008, 12:34 am 12:34 am

Ain’t NOTHIN’ in this world more fun than reading the posts from all the desperate Republicans who know they’re backing another loser like Bush Junior and are TERRIFIED of the cool brilliance of Barack Obama.
HILARIOUS!

Posted by: wolfpack777 | July 20, 2008, 1:04 am 1:04 am

And what would it be if Iraq does become a democracy in the middle east but one of the greatest military accomplishments of all time.

Posted by: pennsylvaniavoter | July 20, 2008, 1:22 am 1:22 am

We are still in Europe 60 plus years after, we are still on the border of N. Korea 50 years after. If you think we will be withdrawing from Iraq you don’t know history.

Posted by: pennsylvaniavoter | July 20, 2008, 1:42 am 1:42 am

“Posted by: erb0087 | Jul 19, 2008 10:54:16 AM “wondering if he’ll yet again “refine” his position on Iraq.CHANGE!”
Posted by: Take America Barack”
———————–
That was the poster behind me.
It’s hard to tell on this forum, who posted what.

Posted by: erb0087 | July 20, 2008, 2:15 am 2:15 am

Obama looked like a kid sitting at the grown up table today with the first pictures of him in Afghanistan. My husband thought the same thing. I’m sure the photos of him playing basketball with some of the military guys will look more believable. I just don’t buy it, anyway he wants to package it. No Bama, no way.

Posted by: Deb | July 20, 2008, 2:58 am 2:58 am

Interesting! I see that many of the Obama haters write, and express themselves quite well. They would go a lot further in life if they were as well-read as they can write. On the issue of Iraq, please put the 9/11 Commission report, the Duelfer report, and the Iraq study group report at the top of your list. If you still don’t realize you’ve been had (as to our entry into Iraq), google the term “cognitive dissonance”. They might then be able to see what others see in their inability to think outside of the boxes they’ve trapped themselves in. Talk about thinkin’ that they’re thinkin’… But, then again, as politico James Carville recently said, in reference to the satirical New Yorker cover of the Obamas: Let ‘em believe what they want; hell, some people still believe the Earth is flat and that the world is only 5,000 years old! Nothin’ you say or do is gonna get them to change their minds!

Posted by: Mike Jones | July 20, 2008, 3:20 am 3:20 am

For Al-Maliki to survive the chaotic currents of modern Iraqi politics, he must tap into that strong national sentiment that does want to see foreigners leaving Iraq. Nevertheless, he’s smart enough to realize he needs our support for a while longer. If not, then why would the
Iraqi Government spokesman Ali al-Dabbagh say that troop withdrawals would be based on the continued security improvements, and that Al-Maliki was misquoted by Der Spiegel?

Posted by: Patrick | July 20, 2008, 5:42 am 5:42 am

Turns out the Iraqi PM DOES NOT back Obama’s plan. It was translated wrong. Obama is such an elitist!

Posted by: Gary | July 20, 2008, 7:36 am 7:36 am

the old geser did not learn a think from vietnam–here he is with same ideas about iraq—–bet he wont wet start a plane again. wow what a dummy

Posted by: rodney | July 20, 2008, 8:33 am 8:33 am

paul——-and then add in the innocent iraq men women and children killed or crippled–as they seem to be the forgotten casulties—it is a shame that so many have suffered and died on both sides—and for nothing.

Posted by: rodney | July 20, 2008, 8:56 am 8:56 am

Deb, I suppose for people like you, if you don’t like Obama, anything he does is just not right in your eyes (not to forget your precious husband’s).
For those of US who don’t like McCain, nothing he does is right is our eyes. The man is just plain too old and bent out of shape to run anything. Ahm, he might have to take too many naps and we don’t expect the President to the most powerful country to ever be caught napping, now, do we? Maybe that’s ok for you and, less I forget – your husband – but it is not ok for the rest of America and the world!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Posted by: exatlantic | July 20, 2008, 9:04 am 9:04 am

Rodney,
We lost the war in Vietnam, we are on the verge of winning it in Iraq thanks to people like McCain who supported the surge. OBVIOUSLY, McCain DID learn a lot from Vietnam.
Apparently, McCain took a very unpopular position by supporting the surge, while Obama took the safe position, but McCain was dead right.
That’s the mark of a true leader. Someone who doesn’t pander to popular opinion in order to do what he knows will benefit the country in the end.

Posted by: ja | July 20, 2008, 9:06 am 9:06 am

Exatlantic,
That’s your biggest criticism of McCain? He’s too old?
Well how about the fact Barack Obama is such a weak man, with a weak will, he is unable to stop smoking.
Do we really want a president who is substance-dependent?
(FYI, I think both of these charges carry no weight, I’m just point out if you want to play that game of personal attack it can be done on both ends.)

Posted by: ja | July 20, 2008, 9:08 am 9:08 am

ja
and exactly what do you think we will have won—and at what cost financialy—and at what cost in HUMAN lives.—-oh i forgot oil companies are bidding on iraq oil——there is absolutely no excuse for this war except to make a few more billionairs—–mccain learn nothing from nam what would be his next step iran

Posted by: rodney | July 20, 2008, 9:12 am 9:12 am

Deb, it’s funny you say that about Obama looking like a kid sitting at a grown up’s table, because I thought the EXACT same thing.
But in the end you shouldn’t judge someone for how they look in a photo op.
That being said, I look forward to Obama admitting he was wrong to vote against the surge. The man’s arrogance is really going to destroy him.

Posted by: ja | July 20, 2008, 9:12 am 9:12 am

Rodney,
There are two issues at play here. Should we have gone to war in Iraq in the first place? – Probably no.
But that is not what we are discussing. The question is, given we were already in Iraq, should we have supported the surge to tame the violence, or pull out and declare defeat?
Obviously the surge worked. We will now be able to set up a DEMOCRATIC ALLY in the middle east. Had we pulled out when Obama wanted to, the country would be overrun with Al Qaeda, civil war, genocide and more humanitarian crisis.
Please just admit that McCain was right about the surge and Obama was wrong, and let’s move on. Why is it so difficult for Obama and his ego to admit he was simply WRONG, and that his plan would have led to more humanitiarian crises?

Posted by: ja | July 20, 2008, 9:15 am 9:15 am

ja
obama cannot stop smoking—-that is a rather lame statement—-mccain cannot remember what country he is talking about and right on tv were all could see i wont go into his past as that would be rather cruel—but if you want i can as i have been here all the time and dont need someone to tell me.

Posted by: rodney | July 20, 2008, 9:20 am 9:20 am

Rodney,
Ageism is a form of bias as well. Your claim about McCain not knowing what country he’s talking about is the lame one.
If you ask me, I’d rather have an old president than one who can’t control his ADDICTIONS.
But these aren’t reasons to vote. Just reasons that people like you use to try to bash other people when you have no real arguments to put forward.

Posted by: ja | July 20, 2008, 9:26 am 9:26 am

ja
the so called surge is nothing more than the royal flush in an attempt to make bush look better as he is a complete failure—and for you to think we will change the behavior established over thousands of years in these countrys makes you somewhat nieve—sadam was the only thing keeping iran at bay—–do you actually think we can rule the world—sorry the romans tried that one—–once again—WHAT THE HELL ARE WE DOING THERE—-YOU DONT SEEM TO UNDERSTAND THAT BILLIONS OF DOLLARS ARE MADE ON WARS—DOES HALIBURTON STRIKE A CORD.

Posted by: rodney | July 20, 2008, 9:28 am 9:28 am

Rodney,
Once again you display your ignorance of the situation in the middle east.
Iraq is now a country on the verge of a true democracy, with general elections. The FIRST in the Middle East.
We do not need to change the behavior of all the people in the MIddle East, just the GOVERNMENTS. The people in those countries weren’t happy, especially under Hussein, they lived in fear. These people are hungry for change. The surge worked.
Sorry, but you were wrong, Obama was wrong, even I was wrong………and McCain was right, the surge worked.

Posted by: ja | July 20, 2008, 9:31 am 9:31 am

JA
JUST FOR YOU MAYBE OBAMA WILL STOP SMOKING——-however mccains mental capacity in on view for all to see—he is lucky someone did not harm him when he caused fire on aircraft carrier.the guy is NTS

Posted by: rodney | July 20, 2008, 9:32 am 9:32 am

Rodney,
I don’t think Obama will be able to stop smoking. He’s tried already several times and failed.
If anything, I’d be worried about what Jeremy wrote – Obama reverting to harder drugs like crack, which he was addicted to before.
We need a strong leader who can CONTROL HIMSELF, let alone be Commander-in-Chief and run a nation. This does not bode well. Sorry. That man is weak.

Posted by: ja | July 20, 2008, 9:35 am 9:35 am

JA
THE PEOPLE LIVED IN FEAR—-sounds like it was here 50 60 years ago——perhaps you would have had a foreign country invade us——people need to deal with their own problems—you can volentier when mccain decides to invade iran—where do you think it will stop—our country will be bankrupt if it dont stop—–

Posted by: rodney | July 20, 2008, 9:41 am 9:41 am

Going to Iraq & Afghanistan with Obama & not McCain shows us that you are so Politically Biased in favor of the Democratics that you might as well be called propaganda wing of the Democratic Party.

Posted by: Belinda Book | July 20, 2008, 10:35 am 10:35 am

Photo op – no substance – a legend in his own mind and in those of his fans. It ain’t only Reps that don’t like Obama – the feeling crosses party lines and includes Dems and Independs as well. We are bi-partisan when it comes to this – so get over it! Obama is such a fake – why can’t y’all see through him? But I guess it is the same hypnosis that carried W to victory 2 terms in a row, and led the Media into being co-conspirators of the Iraq war. The media is as much to blame for the Iraq war as is W, and they are making the same mistake again (or trying to vindicate themselves) by fawning over an empty suit, a man who has no substance and is all things to some people. Wake up America, before it is too late!

Posted by: Beckie | July 20, 2008, 7:16 pm 7:16 pm

Rodney, if the Middle East doesn’t change then that means the jihad against Western Civilization will continue through the next millenium. We cannot defeat the Islamic terrorists militarily. We also have to change their mindset. And the spreading of democracy is just the first step. We also have to solve the Israeli-Palestinian conflict–the root of the jihad against Western Civilization–with the two-state solution. AND the Muslim schools must end the indoctrination of their youth with their curricula of hatred towards Israel and Western Civilization.
Obviously change in the Middle East won’t happen over night…in a year…in a decade…not even in a generation.
Look how long it took for the United States to evolve from a British colony to a full democracy. The Revolutionary War took eight years (1775-1783). It took another four years before the U. S. Constitution was adopted (1787); another year for the ratification (1788); and another 9 months before the First Congress convened (Mar 4, 1789). It took another 77 years before the Civil Rights Act of 1866 was passed giving African-Americans full rights as American citizens. (NOTE: Unfortunately the Compromise of 1877 was a setback for African-Americans in the South, as the rights given to them under the Civil Rights Act of 1866 was no longer enforced.) It was another 54 years before the 19th Amendment was passed and ratified (1920), giving women the right to vote. And it was another 44 years before the Civil Rights Act of 1964 was passed — finally giving full rights to ALL Americans. That took ONE HUNDRED AND EIGHTY-NINE YEARS (1775-1964).
And then there are two glaring black spots to our history: (1) The Indian Wars–101 years from the convening of the First Congress (1789) to the Massacre at Wounded Knee in 1890–with hundreds of thousands, if not millions, of casualties on both sides; (2) And the Civil War (1861-1865) where over 600,000 Americans lost their lives.
If it took the United States 189 years to become fully democratic (some will argue we still haven’t gotten there), how can we give up on the Middle East after just a few years?

Posted by: James Danley | July 20, 2008, 8:47 pm 8:47 pm

Now this phony guy is confident to tell the whole world: I have foreign experience!! I have just spent my weekend in Iraq and Afghanistan!!!! Please add these trips to my thin resume on foreign policy! Please vote for me!!! I have experience on foreign policy! please please!!!!

Posted by: LOL | July 21, 2008, 10:46 am 10:46 am

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