Oct 30, 2008 6:34pm

Dole Sued for ‘Godless’ Attack Ad

ABC News’ Teddy Davis Reports:

Republican Sen. Elizabeth Dole is being sued for defamation and libel by Kay Hagan, her Democratic Senate challenger, for broadcasting a television ad which, in the words of Hagan’s legal action, "falsely implies" that Hagan shares the views of an entity that calls itself the Godless Americans PAC.

Dole’s attack stems from Hagan attending a Sept. 15 Boston fundraiser which was co-hosted by Woody Kaplan who sits on the advisory board of the Godless Americans PAC.

The most inflammatory and misleading part of Dole’s television ad comes at the end when Hagan’s photo is coupled with audio of a female voice saying, "There is no God." The effect is to make it seem like it is Hagan’s voice when, in fact, it belongs to Ellen Johnson, the executive director of the Godless Americans PAC.

Watch it here.

Hagan is a Presbyterian church elder. She responded with an ad Thursday in which she forcefully declares her faith in God.

Dole is one of nine incumbent Republican senators who is in a tough fight for re-election.

ABCNEWS.com first reported on the "Godless" attack when the NRSC made it the subject of a web video earlier this month . Read more here.

User Comments

You have to remember the MEDIA only has freedom of speech when they are not telling the truth about creeps like OBAMA

Posted by: SUSIE | October 30, 2008, 6:54 pm 6:54 pm

The BushGOP has no shame or conscience, they will simply use any attack or smear that they feel will help them win. They are about to learn in a big way that the American people have had it with this grotesque nonsense. Next election they better come ready to talk issues because this same old crap ain’t gonna cut it anymore.

Posted by: hopesprings52 | October 30, 2008, 6:57 pm 6:57 pm

Like all the other Republicans, Dole is a scum bag.

Posted by: Jackson | October 30, 2008, 7:00 pm 7:00 pm

Shame on Dole. She is another one just like shrub, mclame, pain, etc., etc., etc. Not only should she be sued, she should be charged with slander. Of course, the best punishment will be when she loses Tuesday night to a DEMOCRAT! Yeah!!!!

Posted by: durrs | October 30, 2008, 7:04 pm 7:04 pm

Well to use Religion to win election is what the GOP is all about . They are the most GODLY of anyone else,This is why they at like that now if sen Dole thinks this is how to win an election then by all means sue her and her staff.

Posted by: KWOLF443 | October 30, 2008, 7:05 pm 7:05 pm

Jackson, when you hate an entire group of people you’re a bigot. There are good Republicans and bad Republicans just like there are good Democrats and bad Democrats. I thought Barack Obama stood for unity not demonizing your opponent for political gain. Are you supporting him? If so, when do you plan to live up to the standards he set for political discourse?

Posted by: DisgustedFormerDemocrat | October 30, 2008, 7:05 pm 7:05 pm

Oh sure! ABC will report this small time lawsuit, but they won’t report about what could be the biggest lawsuit of the century Berg v. Obama being filed today in the US Supreme Court.
Obama, if you really had a valid Certification of Live Birth in the US, you would make it available wouldn’t you? Stop the fraud on the American people! Show some courage media!

Posted by: david | October 30, 2008, 7:06 pm 7:06 pm

This really makes me sad. I always thought that Elizabeth Dole was above such things – in fact, I voted for her. Unless there is some kind of public apology, I won’t be voting for her again. These kind of smear campaigns have to end. I’m not interested in “dirt.” I’m interested in issues. If you can’t win an election on your own merits, then you’re going to have to suck it up and realize that maybe you aren’t the best person for the job.

Posted by: Former Republican | October 30, 2008, 7:07 pm 7:07 pm

Oh c’mon SUSIE, do you condone the campaign tactics of the GOP?! It’s sad that the GOP has nothing going for them anymore than to try and attack someone’s character instead of trying to convince people to vote for them strictly on their policies. I used to respect Elizabeth Dole. Not anymore. She is now part of the scum tactics of the Republican Party now. The GOP is going to lose BIG and maybe, just maybe, this will wake up the GOP to their disgusting tactics.

Posted by: Frank | October 30, 2008, 7:07 pm 7:07 pm

They must have had Republican Campaign class 101 = Rules for running a republican campaign: be accusing, lie a lot, attack the other person with anything & everything you can think of; intelligent people will know it’s not true, but just keep repeating it over & over as if it were true; the unintelligent republicans will believe you because they cannot think for themselves. Whatever you do do NOT use any morals or ethics, just lie, cheat, and attempt to destroy the other persons character. Last but not least never run a republican campaign based on your own merit or what you can contribute if elected, always focus your attention on the other candidate. If by chance they appear to be winning, you must turn up the heat with more slander & lies. That’s all now class – you’re ready to run for office as a republican candidate.

Posted by: Julie | October 30, 2008, 7:09 pm 7:09 pm

Republicans will stop at nothing to disgrace fellow Americans. Why can’t they have a clean fight and tell us Americans what they will do for the country instead of smearing their opponents? Because they have nothing to tell us, they have no plan and no strategy for this great nation.
Goodbye, Republicans, Goodbye.

Posted by: Jeffrey12342001 | October 30, 2008, 7:10 pm 7:10 pm

Elizabeth Dole is desperate, as is her entire party, to cast her opponent in a negative light. That’s the best they can do, I guess, considering that this election is proving to be a decisive referendum on everything the Republicans stand for. Hope Kay Hagan prevails with that lawsuit.

Posted by: kellybelle23 | October 30, 2008, 7:12 pm 7:12 pm

Awwwww, elizabeth dole, a true christian conservative. the defination of IRONY> conservative=republican. what a joke.

Posted by: jimt | October 30, 2008, 7:14 pm 7:14 pm

Republican campaign tactics? How about the secret access to information about Joe the Plumber (a then private citizen)?

Posted by: david | October 30, 2008, 7:14 pm 7:14 pm

It is time for politicians to stop calling their lies merely exaggeration and be held accountable for their words and their intentions.
This is a new era of politics.

Posted by: Libratine | October 30, 2008, 7:14 pm 7:14 pm

FINALLY!! Thank you Kay Hagan for pushing back on tabloid politics with a lawsuit. If there is a fund for such action, sign me up.

Posted by: Susan | October 30, 2008, 7:14 pm 7:14 pm

It is completely inappropriate to call EITHER of the candidates a creep or any other pejorative name. Vote for whome you want but honestly the name calling of McCains supporters is turning people off INCLUDING REGISTERED REPUBLICANS. What did either of these people ever do to you to make you hate them so much!

Posted by: Christopher | October 30, 2008, 7:15 pm 7:15 pm

Dole is a Kansas carpetbagging scumbucket.

Posted by: Steve from Danville | October 30, 2008, 7:16 pm 7:16 pm

Please david. Joe is going to be rich after the election is over unless the republicans spent all the money on palins outfits. this guy saw an opening and took it. i dont blame him. but he is no saint by any means.

Posted by: jimt | October 30, 2008, 7:16 pm 7:16 pm

this is the type of idiocy I exspect from the whack jobs in Pakistan.
Only an idiot thinks allegiance to “God” makes a person worthy of a vote.
Every crooked politician goes to church. It don’t mean nuttin’. 2008 and many people still let stooges like Dole use “God”

Posted by: powmadeak47 | October 30, 2008, 7:16 pm 7:16 pm

david, you really need to read up a bit. birth certificate or not, his mother was a natural born citizen, which makes him a citizen. just like mcshame, who was born in panama of us citizen parents, so he is a citizen.

Posted by: Greg022653 | October 30, 2008, 7:17 pm 7:17 pm

Unfortunately we have to witness these Republican smears for a few more days. After this election we might never have to hear another Republican Smear. Word has it that their Party in meeting two days after the election to disolve the Party. Hopefully for the entire world’s sake this is true.

Posted by: Congolezza Rice | October 30, 2008, 7:17 pm 7:17 pm

Hey condolezza, iknow you are a bush croney, but i still think you are hot.

Posted by: jimt | October 30, 2008, 7:18 pm 7:18 pm

Dole + McCain = morally bankrupt Republican agenda. God save America from the Republican Party and their vicious smear-rucking campaign tactics. The lobbyists in power will do and say anything to keep their puppets at the money trough of the United States Treasury.

Posted by: Steve from Danville | October 30, 2008, 7:19 pm 7:19 pm

Soon-to-be-former Senator Elizabeth Dole is desperate, as is her entire party, to cast her opposition in a negative light, and there are few depths she won’t stoop to, including casting doubt upon her opponent’s religious beliefs. Shame on you, Elizabeth Dole. Shame on your entire party for doing the same thing: subtly helping make people believe the Democratic presidential candidate is a Muslim.
What a wonderfully decisive referendum this election is going to be on both your political stances and your nasty tactics!

Posted by: Kellybelle22 | October 30, 2008, 7:19 pm 7:19 pm

Idiots! This article has nothing to do with Obama! Stop pulling him out of your a*&!!!!!!!!

Posted by: CL | October 30, 2008, 7:19 pm 7:19 pm

There’s no saving the Republican Party. If Ronald Reagan were alive today he would switch back to Democrat.

Posted by: Steve from Danville | October 30, 2008, 7:20 pm 7:20 pm

In response to the poster howling about Obama’s birth certificate:
DOH–how does one get a US PASSPORT without proving citizenship? The lawsuits about the birth certificate are about as intelligent as the woman who sued McDonald’s for spilling hot coffee on herself! GET A BRAIN and think for yourself. Considering he LEFT the US and the border police let him back in, well, I’d say that’s another Republican CRANK lie.
Or try using http://www.factchecker.com or any others. Do your homework, undecided voters, before you vote.

Posted by: Jmm1974 | October 30, 2008, 7:21 pm 7:21 pm

the conservative movement is dead, long live the republican party.

Posted by: jimt | October 30, 2008, 7:21 pm 7:21 pm

Let’s put our money where our mouth is and contribute to Kay Hagen’s campaign. We will show dirty politicians like Elizabeth Dole that there is no room for scum like her in the senate.
Elizabeth, you call yourself a Christian but only bring shame to the church and God. You are a CINO (Christian In Name Only).

Posted by: ES | October 30, 2008, 7:22 pm 7:22 pm

David, would that be the same Joe the plumber that was a no-show at McCain’s rally earlier today? When in fact he was suppossed to be there. How funny is that? Feeble brained McCain was calling out for “my friend Joe the plumber” where are you Joe? But Joe was a no-show.

Posted by: Congolezza Rice | October 30, 2008, 7:23 pm 7:23 pm

Jessie (Helms) would be pround of Elizabeth (a chip of the old block); however everyone else in North Carolina is ashamed.

Posted by: donna | October 30, 2008, 7:23 pm 7:23 pm

Greg – there is some question as to whether Obama’s mother lived in the US long enough after the age of 16 to confer citizenship to Obama (according to the laws that were in place at the time).

Posted by: ellsbells930 | October 30, 2008, 7:23 pm 7:23 pm

jimt, I’m not Condolezza Rice, I’m Congolezza Rice.

Posted by: Congolezza Rice | October 30, 2008, 7:25 pm 7:25 pm

David – You’re an idiot! If there was even one shred of truth that Obama was not a naturally born US citizen, both McSame and Caribou Barbie would be shouting it at every stop in the campaign. If the RNC is not pushing the issue there must not be any case and the Supreme Court will choose to let the Federal Court dismissal stand. That’s what you get when you follow racist hatemongering websites like poor little sheep with no brains.

Posted by: Steve | October 30, 2008, 7:25 pm 7:25 pm

sullivan v new york times, 1964, kay loses….

Posted by: billy | October 30, 2008, 7:27 pm 7:27 pm

The Fear and Terror Campaign of the Republican Party has hit new lows this election year. Didn’t think they could get lower than Bush in years past. This year they have gone beyond ridiculous, but this time it is not working. The economy is the main event. People are now too worried about about financial security, and have realized the Republicans will do anything to get re-elected by lieing.

Posted by: David G | October 30, 2008, 7:31 pm 7:31 pm

Republicans bearing false witness. Some family values there dirtbags.

Posted by: Q Pulpit | October 30, 2008, 7:31 pm 7:31 pm

When a person has no solutions and nothing positive to offer, that person will instead attack the ideas of people who do have solutions. When they can’t attack their ideas, they attack the people themselves. Republicans have no solutions to our nation’s problems; all of their ideas have proven to be failures. Knowing that they can’t win a debate based on new ideas and solutions, in desperation they turn to character attacks. They have no message other than “Be Afraid”.

Posted by: Chumley | October 30, 2008, 7:31 pm 7:31 pm

it must be embarrassing being a Republican!

Posted by: jen | October 30, 2008, 7:35 pm 7:35 pm

All Republicans politicians and their supporter only use smears, fear, lies, and hate to get their message across!!!!
What happen to the ISSUES!!!!!

Posted by: sisterdearest09 | October 30, 2008, 7:35 pm 7:35 pm

You know, you think that neo-cons can’t sink lower and along comes a piece of work like Dole. This lying, immoral, lowlife was head of Red Cross at one time, when do you think she sold her soul?

Posted by: JR | October 30, 2008, 7:36 pm 7:36 pm

“What happen to the ISSUES!!!!!”
WHAT HAPPENED TO THEIR ETHICS?

Posted by: JR | October 30, 2008, 7:37 pm 7:37 pm

Hate mongering websites you must be talking about Obama’s Pastor, his spiritual mentor the honorable Reverend Wright.

Posted by: Hippie Smasher | October 30, 2008, 7:37 pm 7:37 pm

These people will do anything, and say anything, and you want them as leaders. Isn’t bush proof enough that you get the government you deserve?
President Obama! Get use to it!

Posted by: Independent realist | October 30, 2008, 7:38 pm 7:38 pm

JR
You are absolutely RIGHT!!!!!
This has been a HATEFUL AND UNETHICAL POLITICAL YEAR!!!!

Posted by: sisterdearest09 | October 30, 2008, 7:41 pm 7:41 pm

Just in time for Halloween, Elizabeth Dole has shamed even the Wicked Witch. Sounds like her desperation to keep her Bush-cheerleader Senate seat has brought Republican standards below gutter level. I’d sue her myself from just hearing about this story. Dole is one dishonorable person who has no business being in an honorable seat in American government. She did her candidacy in with all of her venom.

Posted by: buzziea | October 30, 2008, 7:45 pm 7:45 pm

Neocons trying desperately to revive McCarthyism, it’s pathetic. Five more days, just 5 more days until rational thinking Americans prevail.

Posted by: Liz | October 30, 2008, 7:50 pm 7:50 pm

dole is like mccain–win at all costs–say anything—-try to make it stick.
do some of these repubs actually think they are the elite and own the government—or are they just very sick.

Posted by: rodney | October 30, 2008, 7:52 pm 7:52 pm

WOW!! Elisabeth Dole is another DIRT BAG… i’ll say this as nicely as i can: REPUBLICANS SUCK

Posted by: earthisnotflat | October 30, 2008, 8:01 pm 8:01 pm

I hope Hagan wins and Dole loses every penny she has.
Just when you think the GOP can sink no lower, it does.
I hope God has special corners of hell reserved for people who abuse religion the way Dole has.

Posted by: Kate | October 30, 2008, 8:06 pm 8:06 pm

Dole is SO pathetic. I hope Kay kicks her butt on Nov. 4th. What a shame that his woman was ever elected as a leader.

Posted by: nina | October 30, 2008, 8:17 pm 8:17 pm

Help us! If you live in NC, PLEASE vote for Hagan, and tell your friends to do the same. Liddy Dole has been in the Senate for 6 years, and we haven’t seen her. Not once. She doesn’t call. She doesn’t write. You’d almost think she lives in another state, like Kansas or something.

Posted by: Joe in NC | October 30, 2008, 8:27 pm 8:27 pm

Hey Jmm1974 you do know that Obama has an Indonesian Paseport because he lived there as a child. He also as a US Senator can travel on a Diplomatic Passport which are passed out like water in DC for members of Congress! If Obama does not have anything to hide, please tell me why he will not produce a Birth Certificate not a Certificate of Live Birth. They are not the same. The Document on the website is a scaned copy of Live Birth!
If Obama has nothing to hide, than please tell my why the Governor of Hawaii has placed his birth records under seal and the only person who can request them is Obama?
If Obama has nothing to hide please tell me why he does not tell the LA Times to release the tape they are holding!
Obama can stop all this by simply saying release the documents and tape! If there is nothing to all these rumors he can put it to rest but his silence speak volumes

Posted by: chuck | October 30, 2008, 8:35 pm 8:35 pm

Elizabeth Dole should be sued. And she should lose. The ad Dole released is absolute vile. It is profoundly evil filth.

Posted by: ElodieStClair | October 30, 2008, 8:47 pm 8:47 pm

As a resident Tarheel, I never thought anyone could make me more ashamed than Jesse Helms, but I was wrong… I have had the misfortune to endure this filth 4 times in the last 24 hours, and I think if they would broadcast it nationally, the Republicans might lose across the board in a landslide… I mean, worse than they’re already going to… Republicans, the party of bigotry and greed, masquerading as piety and patriotism… This scumbag only spent 13 DAYS in NC 2 years ago, and only 20 DAYS last year… There is a special place in hell reserved for people like Dole, and she will rot there; Have fun losing on Tuesday, scumbags…

Posted by: David K. Underwood II | October 30, 2008, 9:23 pm 9:23 pm

Prejudice always rears its ugly head. Barack Obama is suffering the Half-Bradley Effect. he is not sure how he will vote when in the privacy of the voting booth. ……………
http://thefiresidepost.com/2008/10/30/obama-suffers-the-half-bradley-effect/

Posted by: Ohg Rea Tone | October 30, 2008, 9:26 pm 9:26 pm

Oh, by the way, for the nutbars chuck and david; The orderly will be along shortly with your meds, now scoot back to the common areas with the other patients, you know you’re not allowed on the PC after dinner…

Posted by: David K. Underwood II | October 30, 2008, 9:29 pm 9:29 pm

Wow, now that is low, even for a Republican.

Posted by: Janeyre | October 30, 2008, 9:29 pm 9:29 pm

This ad is disgusting and shameful. I can’t believe the level of vitriol that is present in these campaigns and it must be stopped. While both Democrats and Republicans are engaging in this attacking behavior, the Republicans appear to be much more blatant and disgusting in their comments. I once liked Elizabeth Dole — no more!! When I heard about this today I sent Kay Hagan a donation.

Posted by: Sally - Overland Park, KS | October 30, 2008, 9:30 pm 9:30 pm

Whatever good Dole has done in her political career, she will always be remembered most for this appalling, shameful, repulsive ad.
I used to admire Liddy Dole. Now I wonder how she sleeps at night.

Posted by: Lia | October 30, 2008, 9:32 pm 9:32 pm

Joe in NC: first, the Governor in Hawaii is a republican. Doubt she’s in the bag for Obama. Second, the state law in Hawaii already said that only the person on the birth certificate or a blood relative can request a copy. Third, there’s a court docket next month to review a lawsuit requesting access to the ‘vault copy’. So, it seem to me this action is simply to prevent any unauthorized access to the certificate, to preserve it for the court. Look elsewhere for conspiracies, like the newspaper 47 years ago that snuck in his birth report.

Posted by: nickrud | October 30, 2008, 9:38 pm 9:38 pm

Remember America Obama likes to throw people who aren’t convenient under the bus. From his RACIST pastor of 20 years to his white grandmother along with a half brother living on $12.00 per month in Africa. What a guy

Posted by: Hippie Smasher | October 30, 2008, 9:54 pm 9:54 pm

Susie just be truthful, you’re prejudice as hell and you’re trying to use anything you can to cover it up. Obama is no where close to the being the scum we have been under for the last 8 yrs. or the the one trying to worm his way in now.

Posted by: erwash | October 30, 2008, 10:35 pm 10:35 pm

libby dole has sunk to a new low. she will do anything to win. what ever happened to compassionate conservatives? what a piece of crap she is.

Posted by: sk8boardgrind | October 30, 2008, 10:38 pm 10:38 pm

Let me guess David: You want to hold with your very own hands and see with your own eyes Obamas Birth Certificate. I want to see and hold yours myself to verify your citizenship. It’s fair right? Also, I thought in this country we were free to believe or disbelieve in the gods of our choice. Guess it only applies if you’re a christian huh?

Posted by: ray | October 30, 2008, 10:53 pm 10:53 pm

Making religion an issue in a campaign for public office is un-American. Legal? yup. un-American? absolutely.
Shame on Elizabeth Dole!

Posted by: thebob.bob | October 30, 2008, 11:13 pm 11:13 pm

It is very disturbing and sad that there are so many self righteous Christians in this nation, who like to demonize others who do not think exactly like them, or hold different perspectives, even though they share the same common Christian faith. Look at James Dobson, who puts down Obama’s brand of Chrisitanity, as if somehow his is better. What Elizabeth Dole has done cannot be excused. It is shameful.

Posted by: Ann | October 30, 2008, 11:34 pm 11:34 pm

It is very disturbing and sad that there are so many self righteous Christians in this nation, who like to demonize others who do not think exactly like them, or hold different perspectives, even though they share the same common Christian faith. Look at James Dobson, who puts down Obama’s brand of Chrisitanity, as if somehow his is better. What Elizabeth Dole has done cannot be excused. It is shameful.

Posted by: Ann | October 30, 2008, 11:35 pm 11:35 pm

Republican Campaign Maxim #1 for 2008: If at first you can’t succeed, lie and lie again.
BTW, Ray, you’re spot on!

Posted by: Klarke | October 30, 2008, 11:40 pm 11:40 pm

Regarding Sullivan v New York Times – “the court found that the First Amendment protects the publication of all statements, even false ones, about the conduct of public officials except when statements are made with actual malice (with knowledge that they are false or in reckless disregard of their truth or falsity).” IANAL, but I think Hagan has a shot at proving malice. The only real question is if this case will be found to have actual bearing in her suit.

Posted by: RThomas | October 30, 2008, 11:43 pm 11:43 pm

Elizabeth Dole has looked into the soul of Kay Hagan, and can see that she is a Satan worshipper. Thanks, Libby, for outing this witch.

Posted by: shrink | October 30, 2008, 11:54 pm 11:54 pm

Kate said “I hope God has special corners of hell reserved for people who abuse religion the way Dole has.”
According to Dante, the Eighth Circle of Hell is reserved for all those guilty of fraud, including hypocrites, sowers of discord, and those who bear false witness (which is what Hagan accuses Dole of doing). They are subject to “the filth of the ground” and “the stench of the air” as well as many other torments and ailments.
Losing a lawsuit would be getting off easy.

Posted by: RThomas | October 31, 2008, 12:00 am 12:00 am

wow to call someone godless when this chick is obviously not only a christian but she is a sunday school teacher as well? What kind of nonsense is this….

Posted by: Citizen in FL | October 31, 2008, 12:03 am 12:03 am

Gosh. I’m proud to be atheist. It’s the religious folks I’m scared of.

Posted by: Stephen | October 31, 2008, 12:05 am 12:05 am

haha, I always find this sort of thing to be quite hilarious. This is the sort of issue you’d expect to see rearing it’s head in the internal politics of, say, countries like Iran, Pakistan, or Saudi Arabia. Nice to see how far we’ve progressed since the Middle Ages. We must expose the infidels! ..We need a full-time Inquisition PAC!

Posted by: Infidel | October 31, 2008, 3:43 am 3:43 am

I don’t want my politicians dealing out God. The ad is a lie and I am sick of politicians using God to win elections! God’s busy doing His job, in my opinion. Politicians need to get busy doing theres. The really frightening thing is – I guess ads like these must work – or why would they run them? How many IDIOTS are there in America? Guess we’ll find that out next week … the suspense is killing us all.

Posted by: chester burns | October 31, 2008, 4:51 am 4:51 am

dole should be sued and lose. palin, mccain should also be sued for all of their character attacks, some slanderous if not all of them. politicians who campaign negatively without proof of charges beyond the shadow of a doubt should be sued or charged by the justice department. religion should not be allowed into politics, period.

Posted by: Lawrence | October 31, 2008, 5:11 am 5:11 am

Our Nation has become so ignorant that I am frightened.
Hope,
Coil

Posted by: coilAcoyle | October 31, 2008, 6:29 am 6:29 am

Exactly, Coil. Nothing’s more dangerous than fanatics with money. They’ll be the death of our dear country.

Posted by: Connie Florida | October 31, 2008, 7:37 am 7:37 am

You must remember, the Republican’s only have 4 ways to compaign:
1. Tray and tell people what you want
2. If that doesn’t work smear the other candidate
3. If that doesn’t work put fear in the people
4 If that doesn’t work go back to step 2 and increase the smear.

Posted by: Frankie | October 31, 2008, 8:06 am 8:06 am

I wonder what names Jesus Christ was called in his day? Creep? Socialist? Muslim? Terrorist?
Sue the hell out her, Kay Hagen. I wish Barack would, too. So many have tried to destroy this good man to keep their power. I guess it is to be expected… Afterall, look at what happened to Jesus, Mandela, Ghandi, and MLK.

Posted by: Independant American Woman | October 31, 2008, 8:13 am 8:13 am

What has happened to the GOP? I used to really like Elizabeth Dole. I thought she was reasonable, intelligent and caring. Now, I’m not so sure. Whatever happened to talking issues?

Posted by: Catherine | October 31, 2008, 8:28 am 8:28 am

Elizabeth Dole was one Republican I did have a little respect for but not anymore. It seems to me that name calling has become a substitute for discussing issues and policies and the Republicans have become very good at it.

Posted by: Kitty Wilberforce | October 31, 2008, 8:33 am 8:33 am

When will they get after McCain and Palin for their OUTRAGEOUS LIES and DEFAMATIONS of CHARACTER?

Posted by: Redneck4Reason | October 31, 2008, 8:58 am 8:58 am

I am a citizen of NC, and until now, a life long republican and this will be the 6th presidential election I’ve been old enough to vote in and I wouldn’t vote for Elizabeth Dole now for any public office. The ad is disgraceful and makes it clear how desperate she is and how low she will stoop. I’m ashamed to even say I voted for her in the past. Once this election is over, she can go back to her home state of Kansas, where she spends all of her time anyway. I’m changing my registration to Unaffiliated.

Posted by: Disgusted former Republican | October 31, 2008, 9:19 am 9:19 am

McCain should be sued for all their lies and Palin should be made to pay for all her underhanded acts from the state of Alaska.I have never seen such crap from republicans they are nothing any more and if Palin thinks this will be forgotton and she palns a run in 12 it will be see ya lady.The women thinks she is God take a good look ladies and listen all she is doing is saying What you want to hear.>>>>>>>

Posted by: NH voter | October 31, 2008, 9:23 am 9:23 am

I live in NC. Senator Dole has been MIA until it was time for re-election. If she loses this election, it is because the citizens of NC want (and deserve) a Senator who will be available.

Posted by: katheen | October 31, 2008, 9:24 am 9:24 am

I look forward to the day when the accepted response to a politician being accused of being non-Christian is not, “But I am! I am! See how Christian I am!”, but rather, “So what? Do you want to talk issues or theology?”
Make the wall higher.

Posted by: Yukon Sam | October 31, 2008, 9:33 am 9:33 am

Shame on both of these candidates! By their actions and words they imply that an Atheist is unfit to run for political office. Our founders made it clear that there should not be a religious litmus test to run for any office. After Kay Hagen affirmed that she is indeed a Christian, she should have also made it clear that an American Atheist can be just as qualified to run for a political office as any other American. More importantly, this is just another good example why religion needs to be left out of politics – it only muddies the waters in our pluralistic secular society. Canditates should run for office on their record and not on their religious beliefs.

Posted by: Lynette | October 31, 2008, 9:57 am 9:57 am

IMO everyone here has missed the deeper and fundementally most important point (political mudslinging being a given) – What is wrong with being an Atheist? To many/most? it seems that this is worse then being a serial rapist or a mass murderer. This is sad. And its particularly sad because all you believers are wrong. Stop being a primitive child and grow up already.

Posted by: THOTH | October 31, 2008, 11:09 am 11:09 am

THESE SHAMELESS REPUBLICANS HAVE DISCORAGED EDUCATION IN AMERICA SO PEOPLE BECOME LIKE IDIOTS AND WON´T UNDERSTAND THEIR SMEAR TRICKS AND LIES CALLED SWIFT-BOAT ! THIS IS WHAT THEY ARE BEST IN BUT NO GOOD IDEAS ! WE´VE SEEN IT IN McCAIN´S AD AGAINST OBAMA ! AMERICANS BETTER VOTE DEMOCRATS AT ALL LEVEL TO GET EDUCATION AVAILABLE SO HYPOCRIT-REPUBLICANS FAR FROM GOD STOP CLAIMING BEING ELIJAH !!! VOTE OBAMA/BIDEN .

Posted by: JUNIOR | October 31, 2008, 11:27 am 11:27 am

“all you believers are wrong”
Err… Thoth, is it? Nice handle. As indicated above, I agree with you in broad terms. I think it is absolutely critical to maintain a solid separation between Church and State, and I see nothing wrong with being atheist/agnostic.
But you see, I’m a theist. A polytheist, in fact. It’s a choice I’ve given a great deal of thought to. And while I fully support the rights of atheists/agnostics (as do the majority of theists, both Christians and non-Christians), it’s just as irritating to have an intolerant atheist tell me I’m a primitive as it is to have an intolerant Christian tell me I’m going to Hell.
Just thought I’d mention it. Alienating people who might otherwise support your position… well, that’s so very McCainish.

Posted by: Yukon Sam | October 31, 2008, 11:39 am 11:39 am

the Obama I don’t know scares me less than the McCain and Palin I do know

Posted by: Woodman | October 31, 2008, 11:56 am 11:56 am

BTW lizzy dole is the same scum bag that tried to screw her boss the American Red Cross out of a few 100,

Posted by: Woodman | October 31, 2008, 11:57 am 11:57 am

Dole needs a road map to find anything in North Carolina. She learned dirty politics from a master–her husband. She stepped into the dog pile with this ad and deserves whatever she gets. Keep religion out of government!

Posted by: Terry | October 31, 2008, 12:42 pm 12:42 pm

Well, Elizabeth Dole is nothing more than a lying, scum swallowing Republican pig, just like her dirt bag hubby Bob the slob. Is there something about this desperate smear job attempt that doesn’t fit Lizzie’s ill character? Let Dole know this type of false character attack doesn’t fit and doesn’t work anymore in the new Washington, the new USA. Take her seat, make her pay, vote.

Posted by: Democrats 08 | October 31, 2008, 1:12 pm 1:12 pm

The politicians of the republican party and their hate mongering followers have a special place in Hell awaiting them. I hope that Joe the joke aka, Joe the plumbers helper will get a loan from the republican party to pay his back taxes and get his plumbers license so he can run some cool water to the penthouse in Hell for the elitest like bush mccant & dole. For the rest of you fools who are barely making ends meet. Remember, “A mind is a terrible thing to waste on the republican party.”

Posted by: Made in America | October 31, 2008, 1:58 pm 1:58 pm

Only in America. The Europeans largely put this peculiar blend of over-the-top Christianity and politics to rest a very long time ago. It’s about time we pulled ourselves out of the Middle Ages and caught up. This is extremely embarrassing, and just one example of countless similar tactics used by the Right during every election. For those who live in less fanatical “Christian nations” and who follow American elections, we must be an endless source of amusement. And hmm.. what OTHER countries put this much emphasis on “God” as an instrument of politics? Think about it.

Posted by: heretic | October 31, 2008, 4:49 pm 4:49 pm

It’s pretty rare that politicians actually resort to suing their opponents over misleading ads. But this one was pretty clearly over the top. I hope Hagan wins — both the election and the lawsuit.

Posted by: agio | October 31, 2008, 4:59 pm 4:59 pm

Philip Berg is a nutcase. His previous filings with the Federal Courts include Bush stole the election and Bush was behind 9/11.
In his latest filing to USSC, Berg is asking Souter to stay the 4 Nov election. Anyone want to take any bets that’s going to happen.
P.S. You should look up the facts of the McDonald’s case; it isn’t what you apparently think it was.

Posted by: Jim in MD | October 31, 2008, 6:56 pm 6:56 pm

Good!!! I hope she is defeated!! I hope she loses some big dollars regarding this too!! I say it’s about time someone sued for defamation of character!! Dole Claim was bogus!! Only fact – one of sponsors is associated with that Anti-God Group.
And to think Dole put out a second Anti-God Ad!! Dole’s manager was defending on TV and not doing too well. He got caught in the noose and hung himself with his own words!!

Posted by: Sharonklim | October 31, 2008, 7:14 pm 7:14 pm

The Christian Right is our Inquisition; our collective Ayatollah.

Posted by: FoundingFather | October 31, 2008, 8:00 pm 8:00 pm

My father is the gray haired man facing Hagan. He is a retired bible teacher and met her in a Sunday School class.
http://www.indyweek.com/gyrobase/Content?oid=oid%3A267990
http://www.charlotteobserver.com/politics/story/290258.html

Posted by: Charles | October 31, 2008, 9:57 pm 9:57 pm

What an absolute DISGRACE Dole has become…!!! I’m just wondering…. do you think she’s SENILE…???!!!

Posted by: ChickenHawkCheney | October 31, 2008, 11:53 pm 11:53 pm

DOLE = REPUBLICAN = IGNORANT = DIRTY = LYING = STUPID = ELECTION LOSS = HAGAN WIN…..!!!!!

Posted by: Republitardo | November 1, 2008, 12:06 am 12:06 am

I am happy to report that the Dole rally in Jacksonville, NC was a total joke! I mean, this is the home of Camp Lejeune, Marine-town USA! My wife and I were early voting, and saw some crudely lettered signs pointing the way to the “Big Dole Rally!”, so we drove by and stopped for a moment to relish the pathetic crowd she drew; This, in a town filled with the finest fighting men and women on the face of the PLANET! The majority of these people are normally fervent red-staters, but Dole has ashamed them so badly they wish they were independents…. Even the Honor Guard looked like they wished they were ANYWHERE else… But the best part, the kicker, the cream on the tart is that someone FINALLY stole my Obama sign! Poor little red-necks, Tuesday is really gonna suck for you; Proof yet again that organized religion poisons EVERYTHING it touches.

Posted by: David K. Underwood II | November 1, 2008, 4:42 am 4:42 am

What goes around comes around. I hope that bitch loses big time and has to pay a giant settlement. Go Hagan go, we need those 60 seats.

Posted by: Justice | November 1, 2008, 5:27 pm 5:27 pm

WHAT GOES AROUND, COME AROUND, IS RIGHT…!!!
Dole is going to lose, BIG TIME…!!
So is McCain, repugnacon senators and repugnacon house members…!!!
THIS IS GOING TO BE A DEMOCRATIC VICTORY OF HISTORIC PREPORTIONS…!!!
Y-I-P-E-E……!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Posted by: ByeByeBush | November 2, 2008, 12:51 pm 12:51 pm

The Republicans are becoming more like fundamentalist Muslim….what about separation of Church and State Miz Dole? … you and your visa/mastercard accepting preachers should stay in your prayer towers.

Posted by: Bob | November 2, 2008, 3:27 pm 3:27 pm

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