May 12, 2008
Posted: 11:30 AM ET

From
CNN

Watch part of Bob Barr's announcement Monday.

(CNN) – Former Republican Rep. Bob Barr formally jumped into the White House race Monday as a candidate for the Libertarian Party's presidential nomination.

Barr, the onetime darling of conservatives who led the impeachment fight against former President Bill Clinton, said he is running because voters want a choice beyond the two political parties.

"They believe that America has more and better to offer than what the current political situation is serving up to us," he said Monday at the National Press Club in Washington. "The reason for that is very simple, they believe in America as I believe in America. We believe in an America that is not and should not be and should never be driven by fear as current policies on behalf of both parties are in this country."

Barr, 59, represented Georgia's 7th congressional district from 1995-2003, and became an increasingly vocal critic of President Bush, especially over the president's support of the Patriot Act. He formally left the Republican Party in 2006.

It remains unclear how much support he will draw, but CNN's Bill Schneider says Barr could be to John McCain what Ralph Nader was to Al Gore in 2000.

"If this is an extremely close election, even if Bob Barr gets a handful of votes, it could make a difference, just as Ralph Nader once did," Schneider said. "He is a conservative who attracts mostly Republican voters. He is critical of the Iraq war. McCain supports the Iraq war. There are many conservatism and Republicans who ware critical of the war in Iraq and some of them may decide to vote for Bob Barr to register their protests.

Related Video: Watch Senior Political Analyst Bill Schneider give his take on Barr's entry to the race and the latest superdelegate count.

Filed under: Bobb Barr


Emily   May 12th, 2008 11:57 am ET

Go home Barr you will never win, the American people want someone new, not someone who has been in Washington for too long.

proud army and navy mom   May 12th, 2008 11:57 am ET

good, he'll take all Mccain's votes. Go OBAMA!

john   May 12th, 2008 11:58 am ET

Isn't nader running this year too?

Barack the Vote in RI   May 12th, 2008 11:58 am ET

who cares…

An Agnostic Democrat   May 12th, 2008 11:58 am ET

Hillary's new running mate.

Dancindukes   May 12th, 2008 11:58 am ET

Now this makes it interesting.

@americans   May 12th, 2008 11:59 am ET

good! Let the 'REPUGNANTS'

Mcsame is going to be hammered this fall. sit back, have fun & watch the show!

DoneWithDems   May 12th, 2008 11:59 am ET

Give me a break!!

McCain/08

Barr For President   May 12th, 2008 12:00 pm ET

Go BARR!!

Finally a third option! Thank you Bob Barr for running. I look forward to voting for you over 100 year McCain!

Barr '08!!

Portland, OR   May 12th, 2008 12:01 pm ET

What an idiot. Just as I was thinking that Obama would stand no chance in November this buffoon walks along and announces his candidacy? And what is next? Jack is his VP?

Linda. Boston, MA   May 12th, 2008 12:01 pm ET

Definitely bad news for McCain.

Herman in LA   May 12th, 2008 12:01 pm ET

ha, ha, ha, ha, ha, what a joke

He isn't any better than Ralph Nader.

I would vote for Hillary before I would give my vote to this idiot.

I swear there should be a law that if you don’t run in the primary’s then you should not be allow to all of a sudden come out and run for president. All this is to try and split the votes we know the game that’s being played.

Barack is going to take all of them down.

Obama 08…

Sure   May 12th, 2008 12:02 pm ET

….and yet a Republican or a Democrat will win.

Jose'   May 12th, 2008 12:02 pm ET

Great.

Now the democrats will win out of default because the republican vote gets split up.

Reminds me of the disaster that got Bill Clinton into office.

MR. AMERICA   May 12th, 2008 12:03 pm ET

MR. AMERICA predicts this guy will garner about .0000001% of the popular vote. Even Lush Limbaugh wouldn't vote for this time wasting windbag.

tidho   May 12th, 2008 12:03 pm ET

You'd have to think this is bad news for McCain if the guy has any staying power at all. I hope they get a little momentum built because a third voice would can be very beneficial. It makes the candidates talk about subjects they otherwise might avoid.

R.I.F.   May 12th, 2008 12:03 pm ET

Republican's Ralph Nadar. Works for me.

Bonafide Conservative   May 12th, 2008 12:03 pm ET

Finally, a real candidate to support. McCain is a DEMOCRAT in Republican clothing and would sell us down the river in a heartbeat. Clinton, McCain, Obama - What's the difference?

The only thing that would be better than this would be if Huckabee ran or joined the Barr ticket.

USAF Sr. Airman   May 12th, 2008 12:03 pm ET

Oh wow! Man this guy is the one who will win! Yep I can see it now. McCain, Obama, and Clinton might as well drop out.

WHAT?!?!

Now I have nothing against people running. It's their right. Who knows, I may run for president when I turn 35. I do think it is funny though if they believe they have a snowball's chance.

The up side to all these other people in the race is that it gives Americans more choice. Obviously none of them can win, but it's nice to believe we have more than two cookie cutter choices for president. Democrate or Republican.

How America has allowed itself to believe there are only two ways of thinking when it comes to politics in beyond me.

Jim, Burlington NC   May 12th, 2008 12:04 pm ET

I thought this money waster was dead.

Maybe he can blow another $40 million investigating McCain…

Montana is Obama Country   May 12th, 2008 12:04 pm ET

well, let's see how much traction this one will get..

Yes…We..Can.. Barack Obama in 2008

Jessica, GA   May 12th, 2008 12:04 pm ET

It is now save to say Obama will win Georgia, North Carolina and Alabama. I love you Bob

FedUpDem   May 12th, 2008 12:04 pm ET

He is absolutely right…..way too far right.
obama is absolutely wrong….way too wrong.

The third party that is needed is an American Moderate Party.
I am a lifelong Democrat not willing to go leaping left with the obamians. I would never vote for this guy Barr.

I will vote McCain to prevent obama and the teentwenties (so highly educated- no intelligence or common-sense) from really polarizing this country by forcing an agenda that will be a lesson in politcal futility.

What no one admits or addresses….the Democratc Party is evenly spilt (relatively speaking). The voting population is relatively split between Dems and Repubs. What person in their right mind thinks anyhting can be achieved if one side goes off the deep end in either direction? As always its power, who has control? And the thing is when you have it and you force an agenda….well just look where we are today. Now ask yourselves….ready for more…because thats all we're going to get.

Dennis   May 12th, 2008 12:05 pm ET

Maybe Barr and Nader will cancel each other out then.

fielding mellish   May 12th, 2008 12:05 pm ET

How about Borat for VP!

TC   May 12th, 2008 12:05 pm ET

who

s   May 12th, 2008 12:05 pm ET

Good for him … and thus a spoiler effect for McCain!!!

Eva, VA   May 12th, 2008 12:05 pm ET

Beautiful.

Obama 08

Navy Vet.   May 12th, 2008 12:06 pm ET

I'm an Obama supporter, but I really feel bad for Sen. McCain after this announcement. Here after all of these months, when we finally get ready for a one on one, head to head battle for the White House this guy comes out of the woodwork! I'm very happy for Sen. Obama, but really do hate it for Sen. McCain.

Rom,NY   May 12th, 2008 12:06 pm ET

Go ahead Mr. Barr, we as Democrats support your bid and strongly count on you to cut into Mc Bush votes in the general election

Independent   May 12th, 2008 12:07 pm ET

Jusrt another old hack trying to throw a monkey wrench in this process. I am from Georgia, and he was dumb as a brick. Anyone would be wasting their vote on him, be it Republican or Democrat.

BACK OFF   May 12th, 2008 12:07 pm ET

do you think you clean enough to impeach CLINTON???
clean your self please

John Egbuniwe   May 12th, 2008 12:07 pm ET

A third party into the 2008 presidentail election will make an already exciting contest more interesting. This is what democracy is all about.

Levae   May 12th, 2008 12:07 pm ET

what a joke. Who's next Rush Limbaugh

Tom,West Michigan   May 12th, 2008 12:07 pm ET

It's amazing how such characters can surface just when you'd
almost forgotten how bad they were as legislators! This is one of the
REALLY stubborn Republicans.

Dave, CA   May 12th, 2008 12:07 pm ET

Oh brother.

MC- Atlanta,GA   May 12th, 2008 12:08 pm ET

Thank you Bob Barr - your doing us a favor - siphen off as many votes from McCain as you can!

TF, CO   May 12th, 2008 12:08 pm ET

Hillary supporters your should vote for this guy!!

BettiH, Indianapolis, IN.   May 12th, 2008 12:08 pm ET

Never heard of him.

Porter   May 12th, 2008 12:09 pm ET

A growing percentage of Americans will no longer tolerate socialism-lite (McCain) and will certainly not accept socialism-heavy (Obama). This system has failed everywhere it's been tried. France has run a deficit for 30 consecutive years! Or, look no further than our own social security system. Catastrophic failures! Barr will provide a nice alternative.

Nom Deplume   May 12th, 2008 12:11 pm ET

The republicans just got their Ralph Nader (or Ross Perot, since he was responsible for Clinton winning).

Porter   May 12th, 2008 12:11 pm ET

A growing percentage of Americans will no longer tolerate socialism-lite (McCain) and will certainly not accept socialism-heavy (Obama). This system has failed everywhere it's been tried. France has run a deficit for 30 consecutive years! Or, look no further than our own social security system. Catastrophic failures! Barr will provide a nice alternative.

Martin   May 12th, 2008 12:12 pm ET

Yes We Are Cons
Obama/Wtright '08

WRITE IN HILLARY !

Ron R   May 12th, 2008 12:12 pm ET

LOL

lol   May 12th, 2008 12:12 pm ET

conservatives aren't so fickle… this will have no bearing. It may acutally pull the right side of the democratic party.

Brian   May 12th, 2008 12:13 pm ET

woohoo conservatives for Barr!

Carl   May 12th, 2008 12:13 pm ET

I just don't get it. He says he hasn't seen any candidate that is talking about the real issues. We have a primary system in the States for a reason and I think issues have been discussed. Having more independents run just takes votes away from the more serious candidates. He probably just wants to be able to write and sell a book entitled "why I ran for president"

Michael   May 12th, 2008 12:14 pm ET

He has my vote

CW4Barak   May 12th, 2008 12:14 pm ET

Hey, anyone who takes a substantial amount of votes from McCain is o.k. with me….just don't rain on Obama's parade!

Obama '08

bigben   May 12th, 2008 12:14 pm ET

He would have to be better than Obama

Jack Colson   May 12th, 2008 12:15 pm ET

Barr was after CLinton and at the same time had a Mistress which was found out a few months later.
He's a hypocrite.
Jack C
Oregon

Nel in Florida   May 12th, 2008 12:15 pm ET

Dude! You can't be serious! Whoever is patting you on the back and telling you this is a good idea either wants something from you or is just as delusional. Don't waste your money or our time. We don't want you or Ralph Nader to run. Get over yourself, you are not going to win squat. Just go down in history as another person who had no chance but ran anyway. There has got to be a more positive and effective way to get your message across.

Maybe some of those courtiers, er, politicians, should tell you the truth.

Martha, Georgia   May 12th, 2008 12:15 pm ET

OMG, Barr and his womanizing. wow. He needs to plan for his retirement. Horrible as a Republican and worst as a Libertarian. Bill Schneider is right on his comparison, McCain's Ralph Nader.

Anthony   May 12th, 2008 12:15 pm ET

We need to question whether we actually need "Parties" to elect a President. Furthermore do we really need Senators and Representatives who get into office because they had money to pay their way in? It is all about money in the big picture.

John, OH   May 12th, 2008 12:15 pm ET

This guy is funnier than Ralph Nader.

Dee   May 12th, 2008 12:15 pm ET

Who is this guy?

Corey   May 12th, 2008 12:16 pm ET

This is the same man that cursed at two African-American women that worked at a parking lot in Atlanta and he called them both the N word. And this occurred while he was still in office! Puh-leaze!

The Dude   May 12th, 2008 12:16 pm ET

I'd rather see Ron Paul as a stronger third party candidate.

Eddie   May 12th, 2008 12:16 pm ET

I am a Obama supporter and I think Barr has the right to run.Maybe this will give the democrats who would not vote for a blackman another choice,afterall any candidate is better than McCain.I really want Obama to win because I think he is the best candidate,but I do not want a third term Bush.

Bobby H   May 12th, 2008 12:19 pm ET

You go Bob Barr!

An American in Canada   May 12th, 2008 12:20 pm ET

WELL, IF THE SUPER DELEGATES GIVE THE NOMINATION TO

BARACK H. OBAMA, THEN HILLARY R. CLINTON SHOULD RUN AS

AN INDEPENDENT.

THEN IT WILL CERTAINLY PROVE TO BE A GENEREAL ELECTION

TO TOP ALL G.E. IN AMERICAN HISTORY…

WE WILL A CHOICE BETWEEN:

A REPUBLICAN——- JOHN S. MCCAIN

A DEMOCRAT—– BARACK H. OBAMA

AN INDEPENDENT– HILLARY R. CLINTON

AND AN LIBERTARIAN– BOB L. BARR

LET THE GAMES BEGIN!!!

dmw   May 12th, 2008 12:20 pm ET

I will vote for anyone other than Obama for President. I am leaning towards McCain because Hillary will not get the nomination. The Democratic party has beens so disrespectful and disloyal towards her, that I can not bring myself to vote for Obama because he has encouraged the disrespect.

Ron, TX   May 12th, 2008 12:20 pm ET

Go Bob. You have the right stuff. Ron Paul as running mate!

Tom, St. Paul   May 12th, 2008 12:21 pm ET

This Barr character is a fraud. Check out his bio, especially re: abortion and drugs. He was part of the Gingerich "revolution" in the early 90s. I'm guessing those who really understand Libertaianism will see him for the wolf in sheep's clothing that he is. And the evangelical right will reject him when they see he's been married 3 times and paid one of his wives to have an abortion!

Clearly, he's a sour-grapes "McCain ain't conservative enough" Republican who has no place in his party this go-round, so is trying to make the Libertarian Party a "big tent" for disgruntled neo-cons like himself.

Will   May 12th, 2008 12:21 pm ET

This is a joke, right?

Photon Torpedo Dallas, TX   May 12th, 2008 12:21 pm ET

I wonder what took him so long? His personality seemed the type to have run a long time ago.

Yes We Can & Yes We Should
Obama 08′

After further review,Texas   May 12th, 2008 12:22 pm ET

He will probably get that nut job Zell Miller on the ticket with him.

Billy J Austin,TX   May 12th, 2008 12:22 pm ET

That's pretty funny. He objects to the patriot act, but hooted and hollered for Starr to find ANYTHING on Clinton at any price (privacy, dignity, money)
And ended up settling for and selling the sex scandal as reason to impeach (instead of spending all his legislative time legislating) all while having an affair at the very same time.

Hell still has lots of room and will be one more person fuller when this guy relieves us of his company.

Venus   May 12th, 2008 12:23 pm ET

This is great!

Mc Cain will be catching hell from Obama and Barr!

Way to go!

Go Obama!

FreedomFromFear-Florida   May 12th, 2008 12:23 pm ET

PEOPLE, YOU must know that FRAMING PEOPLE OF STATES as POOR and UNEDUCATED IS DEMEANING. TO FURTHER IMPLY THAT THE POOR, WHITE AND UNEDUCATED ARE STUPID AND BIGOTED ENOUGH TO VOTE FOR HILLARY, IS ABSOLUTELY INSULTING. STOP, YOU ARE ACTING LIKE THE BULLYING BILLARIES!

Where can we talk directly to the people of West Virginia and Kentucky? I could not imagine living there right now and having to endure this.
LET US TELL THEM KNOW THAT WE LOVE THEM AND DO NOT FEEL THIS WAY ABOUT OUR BROTHERS AND SISTERS, NO MATTER HOW WHITE, RICH OR EDUCATED. WE ARE RICH TO HAVE THEM ON OUR SOIL! HILLARY is giving them a BAD BILL OF SALE! HILLARY COULD NEVER REPRESENT THEM OR ME! OBAMA IS THE ONE!

althusius   May 12th, 2008 12:23 pm ET

What is Bob Barr's position on illegal immigration?

Jacob   May 12th, 2008 12:24 pm ET

This now makes a balance between Naders effect and Barrs effect on the election.

And since so many conservatives disagree with McCain, the landslide this fall will be even bigger. :D

We need a democratic president in 2008 whether its Clinton, Gore, or Obama.

Fed_up2   May 12th, 2008 12:24 pm ET

You can bet he's in it for the MONEY!! Deals will be made here and there and when all is said and done at the end of the campaign he gets a ton of lobby money and a new toaster.

Erick   May 12th, 2008 12:24 pm ET

I wonder if Barr's support in Georgia is strong enough to draw some conservative republicans away from McCain to put Georgia into play on the back of Obama's base support there? Could we be adding another "swing state" in GA with Barr's inclusion in this race? Just a thought, but given his public service for GA and splitting republicans there, it could be a factor?

No More TAXES!   May 12th, 2008 12:24 pm ET

This guy is a flash in the pan. However, if he has staying power, it could definitely hurt McCain.

Hillary has already given the Republican's all they need against Obama.

This should be interesting. I think, either way, the election will slide to one side or the other quickly. We can sleep early on election night.

Obama has already shown and reported that he will continue to mud-sling. I can only imagine the amount of skeletons in Obama's closet that the Republican's are about to unveil!!

Should be fun!

PA for Obama   May 12th, 2008 12:24 pm ET

Great - he'll be to McCain what Ross Perot was to Daddy Bush - a cinch for the Democrats.

JW   May 12th, 2008 12:24 pm ET

OMG - here comes another iget like Ron Paul (Mr. 3%) to take enough votes to throw the election to McBush.

Brian G, Sugar Land, TX   May 12th, 2008 12:25 pm ET

I like the idea of a spoiler for McCain, but at the same time any respect for Barr that I might have had has been snuffed out by his level of stupidity for trying this stunt at this time.

Vote Barr, The Beanhead Candidate!

Anonymous   May 12th, 2008 12:25 pm ET

I really hope Barr does run. I am one Clinton supporter that would vote for him if Obama is the Democratic nominee

Ratgurl   May 12th, 2008 12:26 pm ET

Who?…

Titi from Texas   May 12th, 2008 12:27 pm ET

John McCain has been struggling to appeal to conservatist republican voters. I expect Bob Barr to take a few of them with him.

mary   May 12th, 2008 12:27 pm ET

i am leaving the democratic party,after the way the party has stacked this election for obama..he will lose the general and and they will lose many lifetime democrates, myself, family and many of my friends. there is a growing movement for democrates to sit it out as they wil never vote obama and barr looks like a viable alterative.

dave   May 12th, 2008 12:28 pm ET

so the Dems (Obam included) are in michigan urging
voters to register to vote in Nov 08… that is great…..
but at the same time the same Dems are saying
screw the voters who already voted in Michigan in Jan. primary
because it was illegit under Dem rules….. which is like
the guy who goes out drinking, messes around with another
person, and then comes home to tell the spouse that
he really loves her and wants her support….
a bit of stinking hypocrisy!!!!!
Mccain/rice08!

republicans understand   May 12th, 2008 12:28 pm ET

that a vote for Barr is a vote for Obama. And that just won't happend. If anything this guy will sway aisle walking democrats (many a clinton supporter) who oppose the war in Iraq. Republicans know unity, and we'll see it through win or lose.

NYC Native   May 12th, 2008 12:29 pm ET

I hate to break it to Mr. Carr, but the choice between the two is the Green Party.

Johnny from NY   May 12th, 2008 12:29 pm ET

"Barr us running for president."
you guys spelled IS wrong

John l Bagueux-Scottt   May 12th, 2008 12:30 pm ET

jajajajaja. lest split the republican party. last thing they need

GCG - Austin, TX   May 12th, 2008 12:31 pm ET

I hope that this helps to spur on intelligent debate on the real issues facing the American people and doesn't force a faster degeneration into old-politics style attacks.

He hasn't won the Libertarian nomination, yet, so this isn't a done deal by any stretch of the imagination, but I don't know of any other Libertarians that are running with as much visibility and history as Rep. Barr.

Uncle Sam   May 12th, 2008 12:31 pm ET

McCain Democrats to the rescue!

Deb n Texas   May 12th, 2008 12:32 pm ET

It's about time someone comes out for a change to damage the Republican Party.

Erik B   May 12th, 2008 12:32 pm ET

Get your popcorn ready

beverly   May 12th, 2008 12:33 pm ET

It appears that Mr. Barr is looking some attention,leave well enough a lone. Find another way to help your party.

William from Tx   May 12th, 2008 12:34 pm ET

Barr is best known for his appearance in "Borat: Cultural Learnings of America for Make Benefit Glorious Nation of Kazakhstan", in which he eats a piece of cheese offered by Borat made from his mother's milk. The way Barr handled this fake news reporter shows the skills he would bring to the White House as President.

al snyder   May 12th, 2008 12:34 pm ET

We need more parties. Independent is not a party, it has no platform and just includes anyone who is basically undecided. Though, for a third party, or more, to take off and be a contender, it would need a well-known figure to push it forward. Without someone of recognition, at best it would be nothing more than a spoiler.

Ridgeway   May 12th, 2008 12:35 pm ET

I suspect the cheese he ate in "Borat" has affected his brain. However, he's still done more than Obama or Clinton.

nicolle harris   May 12th, 2008 12:35 pm ET

This does not hurt Obama at all so I am okay with Bob Barr running. He probably knows he doesn't stand a chance but wants to make an impact.
Libertarians are for legalizing marijuana by the way.

Vivienne   May 12th, 2008 12:36 pm ET

Some liberterian views are valid. I wish the democrats would adopt a few key Libertarian positions. I really don't believe that liberal and libertarian views cannot exist side by side. I know this because I could be described as someone who strongly embraces both. I am an Obama supporter. I look forward to seeing the Libertarian agenda marched out before the American people. It's good for the country to have more than two views. We need to expand our thinking before it's too late.

Chic   May 12th, 2008 12:36 pm ET

At least he'd be the spoiler Nader was to the democratic party. Nader's presence in the race this year wont matter much in my opinion.

Personally, I really think this election year is going to be fun to watch.

Obama '08

Just Wondering   May 12th, 2008 12:37 pm ET

"Vocal critic of Bush". He must have an axe to grind against McCain too.

No More Years, Lake Forest CA   May 12th, 2008 12:37 pm ET

I'd be surprised if this makes much of a dent in McCain's support, to be honest. The impeachment of Bill Clinton was one of the most ridiculous expenditures of taxpayer money in this country's history, and Barr led that charge. I don't see how that gives him a superior record on fiscal conservatism. Votes for Barr will be nothing more than protest votes, as will votes for Ralph Nader.

Jason   May 12th, 2008 12:38 pm ET

Go Bob Carr! Take out McCain! Provide for a better tomorrow!

Rev Wright   May 12th, 2008 12:38 pm ET

Barr's vote should level the playing field, equaling the votes Obama will lose to the Rev Wright, Aires and Rezko story. story

Kevin   May 12th, 2008 12:38 pm ET

What a joke. Little late in the game to start playing, isn't it? Guess he couldn't handle the challenge of debating when the rest of the country was debating.

Weak link…makes libertarians look bad.

Who?   May 12th, 2008 12:39 pm ET

Pardon my ignorance, but who the heck is Barr?

Kathy   May 12th, 2008 12:39 pm ET

Wonderful. Let him take votes from McCain. As a Georgian, I support his decision. OBAMA O8!!!!!

spoiler   May 12th, 2008 12:40 pm ET

of course this man knows he wont win…he doesnt want mccain to win though. He knows if he runs, he will take some of the votes - even if a small amount- away from mccain, so the democrat will have a better chance to win the election. This is politics101. He's running as a lib so he will take votes away from mccain, but not from Obama (who will indeed be the nominee.) The only reason the republicans are so "unified" is becuase Mccain is their only choice. alot f them are dissapointed with the nomination of Mccain.

Eric from Philly   May 12th, 2008 12:40 pm ET

I think the Libertarian Party, the Green Party and the Independent candidates will go after Obama the most. John McCain might as well sit back and cruise through the general election. Starting to feel bad for Obama now and the nomination process is even over.

May   May 12th, 2008 12:40 pm ET

And the beat goes on…..

John   May 12th, 2008 12:41 pm ET

If Barr selects Ron Paul as his running mate, I may be compelled to vote for that ticket.

RRE   May 12th, 2008 12:41 pm ET

If Hillary does not get the nomination, she should run as an Independent for President. Now would it that be the election of the century!!!!

Allen deLuca - Florida   May 12th, 2008 12:43 pm ET

Barr, STOP now!! You have been around long enough to know the next president will be either a democrat or republican — nothing else. Do you want Obama to be President? I think not, so stop your foolishness and get behind the repub John McCain whether you personally like him or not.

SophieL   May 12th, 2008 12:44 pm ET

Finally, a true home for the Clinton haters. There go all the Republican and Independent supporters Obama thought he "earned by reaching out." On the other hand, Barr just might divide the Repubs enough that Obama's slim margin will be enough for the General.

Boy, just when you start thinking politics is getting boring…

Ken   May 12th, 2008 12:44 pm ET

Wasn't this a few months ago?? Maybe not…

I hope ha takes some votes from McSame.

Johnny Be Good   May 12th, 2008 12:45 pm ET

What is the Libertairan Party. Does anyone know there platform? I guess I will google it.

Frosty   May 12th, 2008 12:45 pm ET

This election is going to be juicey! John McCain is not a conservative and every republican with any sense knows it. In fact, I don't even think he is a republican at all. It's going to interesting.

This is like monday night football every day of the week.

Michael   May 12th, 2008 12:45 pm ET

Who is blacker? Obama or Barr? Would this affect any of Obama's support. Many of the African-American independents/Republicans who where going to vote for Obama now have somewhere to turn to.

Pat Durham   May 12th, 2008 12:46 pm ET

Barr, Tried to impeach Clinton and was guilty of the same. Give us a break!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

American Girl   May 12th, 2008 12:47 pm ET

Whatever?

Yay   May 12th, 2008 12:47 pm ET

Good..BARR is helping BARRack to win in november!!!
Go BARACK OBAMA !!!

Esther from Cuyahoga Falls Ohio   May 12th, 2008 12:48 pm ET

dividing dividing dividing us all is going to be like Rome soon we going to be like domino's

Chad, Wisco   May 12th, 2008 12:50 pm ET

We need to have third, fourth and fifth parties. Anyone who thinks two is enough is just blind to the fact that the reason "upstart" parties never suceed is because of money. Both Dems and Repubs are sellouts to their corporate sponsors. We might as well just make it The Democratic Nominee Obama sponsored by Pepsi vs. The Republican Nominee McCain sponsored by Coke. Then just let people vote for which drink they prefer. Neither are really good for them, but at least you could argue that yours is better if you win.

Charlotte, Jim   May 12th, 2008 12:51 pm ET

Another Republican tactic to divert votes from the Democrats - throw a conservative out there to run in the "Lib" party. No Republicans will ever vote outside of the party that's printed on their cards, but because of the liberal nature of the 'Democratic' party in general, a liberal voter is likely to vote outside of their party because of this. This only helps the reds. as it has in many previous general elections.

PAUL PROVIDENCE RI   May 12th, 2008 12:51 pm ET

He needs work and the only way to keep his name in the spotlight is this bid. He knows he has no chance and I believe he will not take enough votes from anyone. His time has gone and when he was out on the streets he couldn't find work. This will look good on his CV.

seanwhit   May 12th, 2008 12:52 pm ET

It is Bush, Clinton and Perot all over again!

shelly in IL   May 12th, 2008 12:52 pm ET

This guys sees Senator O has no chance with "white folks" now he wants to stick his two cent in!

Senator O will fool all of you…More people will vote for him than you know…your: co-workers, neighbors, friends, cousins etc…

Then who will be laughing (all the way to the Whitehouse)…lol

tj   May 12th, 2008 12:52 pm ET

Just saw a pathetic interview on FoxNews with Barr. Get ready for the non stop spoiler crap. Then the guy read a quote implying Barr was bitter and frowns alot. That is we report you decide.

SWF   May 12th, 2008 12:52 pm ET

It's time to get a fresh perspective in the White House. He can't do worse than GWB. I am voting for BHO because the country has been going in full steam ahead in the wrong direction for nearly 8 years and we need to do a 180 before we run out of track and go off into a ravine.

Carol   May 12th, 2008 12:52 pm ET

Who?

Josh   May 12th, 2008 12:53 pm ET

As registered Libertarian I applaud his conversion from the big machine of the Republican party to our cause. America lost its freedom a long time ago when we sold out to the military industrial complex and we will never truly be free again until we crush the big money politics embodied by the Democratic and Republican parties.

That is why I'm voting Obama!

GloriafromPA   May 12th, 2008 12:53 pm ET

This isn't fair, McCain doesn't stand a chance against Obama, and now this Republican is running as a Libertarian? The defeat of the Republicans in Nov will be so severe, it will be historical. Oh well.

Jayson   May 12th, 2008 12:53 pm ET

The Libertarian and other minor parties need to stop wasting money on the presidential race and spend the money on building viable parties. Otherwise all they will continue to do is play the part of the spoiler in any given election.

Chad, Wisco   May 12th, 2008 12:54 pm ET

Esther- I could not agree with you more. We are quickly become Rome 2.0, and we all know how well Rome 1.0 turned out.

Suzan   May 12th, 2008 12:54 pm ET

Since he opposes the Clintons, he can can take Obama's and McCain's votes, but not Mrs. Clinton!!!
Clinton scored again!

SAM2008   May 12th, 2008 12:55 pm ET

Obama Said
I Have Always Been Against Iraq- LIAR, you weren't in office to vote against it AND you have voted to fund it every single time, unlike Kucinich, who seems to be out gutting you Obama. You also seem to be stepping back from your departure date - AGAIN.

Mike Birmingham, AL   May 12th, 2008 12:55 pm ET

What a perfect trade!!!

Hillary's "sour grapes" supporters will vote for McCain, and the pot-smoking Republicans will vote for Barr.

President Obama….has a nice ring to it, doesn't it?

SAM2008   May 12th, 2008 12:56 pm ET

Man he lies way to much Obama
I Didn't Run Ads In Florida - LIAR, you allowed national ads to run 8-12 times per day for two weeks - and you still lost.

tony   May 12th, 2008 12:56 pm ET

The time has come to change the way we elect our president and eliminate the electoral college and require the winner to receive 50% of the popular vote it would open the process to more candidates and more voters who would vote for a 3rd or 4th party candidate giving us all more choices. Should no one get 50% the top 2 vote getters could then run against each other without the Nader factor coming into play.

Henry Miller, Cary, NC   May 12th, 2008 12:56 pm ET

Between Ron Paul write-ins and Bob Barr, McCain is going to lose a huge number (a million-plus to Paul alone) of former Republicans who have become thoroughly disgusted with neo-con war-mongering and bible-thumping.

Get with it, McCain, or go home and quit wasting everyone's time–the only you're going to get those million-plus votes back is by running on the real Republican platform, the platform from before the neo-con nuts highjacked the party.

Plan 9   May 12th, 2008 12:57 pm ET

This is terrific news! Every single vote that Barr takes from McSame will be a vote for the best candidate in the race, Barack Obama. I suspect that this is the REAL reason Barr, a patriotic American, is doing this, to trash the drooling, senile McSame's chances and give an edge to the man who could turn out to be the greatest American president since Abraham Lincoln. Obama 2008!

Harry Potter, Hogwarts   May 12th, 2008 12:58 pm ET

Arguing on the internet is alot like competing in the special olympics, even if you win, you're still retarded!

The ATL   May 12th, 2008 12:58 pm ET

Great news! He will attract the far far righties & the crazy religiosos!

Ian   May 12th, 2008 12:58 pm ET

Unfortunately for him, people would rather be a part of the "winning" team rather than vote for someone who truly represents their beliefs. It's funny that people are more interested in the word "change" than actual change.

SAM2008   May 12th, 2008 12:59 pm ET

Obama Economics Bill
My Economics Bill Will Help America - LIAR, your 111 economic policies were just combined into a proposal which lost 99-0, and even YOU voted against your own bill.

John l Bagueux-Scottt   May 12th, 2008 12:59 pm ET

good hor him. lets put the show on the road . lol

Jenny   May 12th, 2008 1:00 pm ET

who?

Arkim   May 12th, 2008 1:00 pm ET

This is obviously good for Obama. This guy will reduce McCains count even though he won't win, but it will be enough to keep Obama ahead.

Jeffrey   May 12th, 2008 1:00 pm ET

He might not be the IDEAL candidate (see Ron Paul) and he may not have a chance at winning (see the Libertarian election history), but at least his bid is a real one and his stands on the IMPORTANT issues are closely aligned with my own.

To think that I was just about ready to not vote this fall due to lack of quality options. Barr IS a quality options and I believe that a good number of people, both Republican and Democrat, who 1) don't like McCain's support of and willingness to carry forward Bush's failed policies; and 2) cannot stand Clinton or Obama will see Barr as a serious viable alternative.

Now, only if he can overcome the two-party bias in the media and election process in order to get his message out, he will have a pretty decent chance the way things are beginning to shape up.

Alan Boyer   May 12th, 2008 1:00 pm ET

I needed a good laugh. Thanks, Bob!

Mike Birmingham, AL   May 12th, 2008 1:00 pm ET

Can anybody say - "Democrat landslide"?

Lovin' it!

Obama's the next prez without a doubt!

DD, New York   May 12th, 2008 1:01 pm ET

Perhaps Hillary will run on an independent ticket, should Obama get the Democratic nomination??????? Let us not forget, that Nader is also running.

IH   May 12th, 2008 1:01 pm ET

Bob Barr has my vote — not my actual vote — to take away as many McCain votes as he possibly can.

Barr for Obama/Clinton.
Nader for McCain.

Ken   May 12th, 2008 1:01 pm ET

Oh oh. Confusion for the 28% true believers. Which form of the racist and facist [R] party do they want to vote for? This will be like telling [R]s to go sit in the corner in a circular room.

John in AL   May 12th, 2008 1:02 pm ET

Barr made a fool of himself in the impeachment hearings.

Missy M   May 12th, 2008 1:02 pm ET

Good. This is democracy at work and should be encouraged. I think it also indicates that the Democratic and Republican parties have both completely lost touch with the voters and most Americans just simply don't want to accept the increased government spending, decreased civil liberties and continued anti-business rhetoric that is destroying our capatalist way of life.

Mike Birmingham, AL   May 12th, 2008 1:03 pm ET

All of you Hillary supporters threatening to destroy the Democrat party if Obama gets nominated just had the wind taken out of your sails.

Obama '08!

Yes Yes   May 12th, 2008 1:03 pm ET

All the way Mr. Barr..siphon as many votes from McSame as you can, because you sure as hell arn't going to be taking any votes away from Obama.

sarah   May 12th, 2008 1:04 pm ET

Hillary will also be running as an independent… just watch =(

Jinraj Joshipura, San Juan, USA   May 12th, 2008 1:04 pm ET

Good job. Please go ahead. Citizens should have more choices. All presidential debate should be run by the Election Commission and not pre arranged drama between two party candidates where questions are preset and informed in advance and all presidential candidates should be part of the debate and not ignored.

Aaron Wittnebel   May 12th, 2008 1:05 pm ET

Run, Bob, Run!

Adam   May 12th, 2008 1:05 pm ET

Time to Stand Up and fight for Hillary! Hillary has been robbed the nomination. From day 1 the Media has been hard on her. It took until SNL called them out to look at Obama more. By that time Obamas spell has been cast on them and they would not care what he did, they are going to vote for him. What has he done? NOTHING!!! In the Senate for 18 months before he started to run? Come on? And you guys want to just hand over the Role of President to him? NO!!

I, like MANY others will not vote for him and will vote for McCain or just stay home. I would rather vote for someone I know what I'm getting, then vote for Obama who has proved he can do nothing but give an ok speech.

Obama supporters have been the most hateful group of people I have seen. Just read the Ticker over the last 4 months. I have noticed its ok to be sexist and play on that, but don’t you dare say 91% of the blacks voted for Obama. I could care less and I'm happy they are voting for him. But the double standard comes when women or white people (Ohio, Penn, Indiana) vote for Hillary. Just because someone doesn't like Obama and they are white doesn’t mean the are racist. You guys have beat that to death. Now with West Virginia and Kentucky coming up you are at it again. SAD SAD SAD!

Hillary Clinton needs to run as an Independent. I'm pretty sure she could win as an Independent with the supporters. I'm also sure once the election goes on, People will take notice that Obama is just not ready and as we learn more will understand that Hillary is the only choice. The pundits keep saying that Hillary could never win w/o the AA vote, Well Obama can not win w/o 50% of Hillary's supporters.

Hillary 08 Independent!

Robert   May 12th, 2008 1:05 pm ET

I like to have more choices than the two parties, this way it give people more choices to vote for and make the candidates work harder.

wakgari   May 12th, 2008 1:05 pm ET

Thank you Bob Barr - your doing us a favor - siphen off as many votes from McCain as you can! we all Dem's ready helping U.

Tim   May 12th, 2008 1:06 pm ET

If you are a Hillary supporter as I am…Why would you waste your veote on Barr or McCain……If you truley believe in what Hillary stands for you will suppoort Obama if he is the nominee. Any other vote would be a slap in Hillarys face….If Obama wins then Hillary will be in cabinet probably having a stronger voice…. for women and poor white americans

Donna   May 12th, 2008 1:07 pm ET

This is great. I think Hillary ought to run independently as well. Let's make this election a true people's choice affair.

Bill   May 12th, 2008 1:07 pm ET

This guy is a real republican. He is what our party used to stand for.

Georgia   May 12th, 2008 1:07 pm ET

Barr? Really? Pretty funny to call himself a Libertarian. Obviously not a very bright individual whatever his label this month…

Let's get Neil Boortz to jump in too. At least he is a REAL Libertarian.

We also need an Independent and a pure capitalist to announce - I think 6 or 7 candidates would be fun…

Peter in PA   May 12th, 2008 1:08 pm ET

Good now McShame's voters will be split. Thank you Mr.Barr. We democrats had the whitehouse handed to us in a platter after 8 years of inept administration and by nominating a old man. You are only making it icing on the cake.

Thank you Mr. Barr!!!!!

ztormtra   May 12th, 2008 1:09 pm ET

Stand against the Ultra Liberal Socialist Left Wing of the Democrat Party that hi-jacked the Democrat Party and now wants to hi-jack America!

Refuse Barr any votes & Cross Party Lines to Vote for McCain!

kia   May 12th, 2008 1:10 pm ET

Good News. Anything that slow or even damage Mc Cain's run for presidency, is a good news.

H-ROD   May 12th, 2008 1:11 pm ET

GOOD I HOPE HE TAKES VOTES AWAY FROM MCCAIN LIKE NADER DID FROM THE DEMS (ES OBAMA CAN)

Frazier   May 12th, 2008 1:11 pm ET

All you Hillary Supports take that…this guy will split the conservative base and Obama wins. I love you Barr

Barr08 NOT Obama08

Yes we Can

Its not to late Clinton supports to join the winning team!

Jan for Hillary   May 12th, 2008 1:12 pm ET

A little off topic-but, wanted to remind John Edwards that winners never quit and quitters never win. I am pretty sure Obama would have quit by now if he was still behind. His attitude seems to be that Hillary is no longer in the race–speaks volumes for his tenacity and unity skills. Unfortunately, the media have made it easy for him–he does not have to work hard-just preach and smile. "Educated" nurse for Hillary

True Independent, MD   May 12th, 2008 1:12 pm ET

I hope Democrats see from the responses here that a lot of people who pretend to be Dems have been using this forum to drive a wedge between Sen Obama and Sen Clinton's supporters.
The GOP creed is "Divide and Rule"

Democrats had better unite so we can all get a government that can actually "Do Something" about the abysmal, and regressive state of affairs in our country as well as our image abroad.

Why on earth anyone would think that Sen McCain can change anything beats me.

Mark   May 12th, 2008 1:12 pm ET

it's nice to see another option out there besides the 2 major parties. But is a run by any third party candidate doing anything but taking votes away from one bad option (McCain) and putting the presidency more firmly in the hands of another bad option ( whoever the Democrats run)? In this election where I'd bet every vote is going to be critical is another third party candidate a good thing for the American people? Will there ever be a day where "none of the above" makes the ballot?

Bukky   May 12th, 2008 1:13 pm ET

Isnt this the Guy that's all about family values but has be caught cheating a bunch of times… and married three times? All this crap and he thinks me marrying another woman would harm his marriage. Looks to me like he does enough harm to the sanctity of marriage all by himself.

Bob Barr… YOU CAN KISS MY ARSE!!!!

I usually try to be civil but this guy doesnt deserve civility

HOPE WITH HILLARY   May 12th, 2008 1:13 pm ET

JUST ELECT A WOMAN…. AND TELL ALL THESE ELITIST GUYS TO GO BACK TO SITING AROUND AND DO NOTHING,,, OBAMA ,MCAIN,BARR,PAUL, EDWARDS,AND ALL THE OTHER FOOLS…
REAL CHANGE IS WITH A WOMAN PRESIDENT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

NoMcSame   May 12th, 2008 1:13 pm ET

Great news. Split the republicans votes so that Mr. Obama can walk in. Barr will be our Nider. The chickens have come home to roost. Pay back for Rush and what they did to the Democrats this year. I will send him money just to help him blind side McSame.
Run Bob run. Give them a choise too. This is GREAT
Obama08
PS Hillary people we will not miss you at all so do what you want to.
Obama08

john   May 12th, 2008 1:14 pm ET

Does this mean that John McSame can kiss goodbye to the consevative right and evangelicals

Alan K.   May 12th, 2008 1:14 pm ET

Cool, a third-party candidate even more irrelevant than Nader. Does anyone outside of political buffs and college students know about the Libertarian Party? Jack Kevorkian would probably get more votes than these guys.

(…But he still is a better candidate than the indefatigable, lovable lunatic Lyndon LaRouche, who's still running, I found out on campus.)

GoNader08   May 12th, 2008 1:14 pm ET

1) Single payer health care? Nope, Obama doesn't want that.

2) End the war, withdraw the troops. hand over to the UN and Iraqis? Nope - Obama doesn't want to do that.

3) Get tough on payday loans and high interest fraudsters? Nope - Obama doesn't want that.

As Gore's 2000 VP candidate Lieberman addresses the Republican convention in St. Paul, think of why Dems get hysterical on Nader - and not their own party apparatus.

votenader.org

Ken   May 12th, 2008 1:14 pm ET

Dave is supporting McCain, but thinks he has something to significant to say about [D] hypocrisy in how votes are counted? Excuse me? What a precious brown [R] nugget.

#1) You [R]s had a choice in 2000 between McCain and Bush, and chose Bush as the better presidential candidate. Now given Bush's record, your own decision that McCain is worse, and your current support for McCain, why should anybody listen to what you have to say about ANYTHING? You make BAD choices, have bad thought processes, and ARE a looser.

#2) FLA 2000.

Man, you have been dragging down the voting IQ of this country since 2000.

orlando   May 12th, 2008 1:15 pm ET

Obama '08!

Michael in Lorton, Virginia   May 12th, 2008 1:15 pm ET

Barr doesn't have chance………but anybody can be President……unfortunately it will not be him.

carmen   May 12th, 2008 1:15 pm ET

More good news for Obama

I used to be a Democrat   May 12th, 2008 1:15 pm ET

Anybody who calls Third Parties spoilers are Fascists.

Yeah, I said it. You're a Fascist.

The two party system has failed America.

Ohio White Woman 4 Obama   May 12th, 2008 1:15 pm ET

I don't have a problem with a group of intelligent & American-people-dedicated pol's creating a different party to enable us to have another choice but, come on already! The LAST thing we need is another narcissistic hypocrite perpetuating the same GARBAGE as the rest of the conservative, right, extremists that CREATED the GARBAGE in the first place!

Go back under your republican rock, Barr, & let the PEOPLE have the Country & the lives THEY worked for & have earned!!!

Could you imagine the state we would be in with THAT "guy"? McCAIN too!!!

L.S.   May 12th, 2008 1:16 pm ET

LARRY SINCLAIR……… WHO IS LARRY SINCLAIR……….. CNN NEEDS TO REPORT THIS AND NOT CENSOR IT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! LIKE ITS DOING AND CONTINUES TO DO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

JAY   May 12th, 2008 1:17 pm ET

DO YOU NOT REMEMBER ROSS PEROT? HE DESTROYED THE REPUBLICANS AND THE FIRST PRESIDENT BUSH'S CAMPAIGN BY TAKING VOTES. PEROT COULD NEVER HAVE GOTTEN ENOUGH — BUT HE GOT ENOUGH TO PUT SOMEONE ELSE IN OFFICE.

BOB BARR AND RON PAUL WILL DO THE SAME THING TO AMERICA. THEY MAY AS WELL HAND AMERICA'S KEYS OVER TO OBAMA.

IF YOU WANT TO HELP, GET BEHIND McCAIN OR HILLARY.

WE NEED "PATRIOTIC" UNITERS — NOT DIVIDERS!

GOD BLESS AMERICA.

Freida NYC   May 12th, 2008 1:18 pm ET

This is absurd!!!

And to Andy is the previous blog,
I will NOT vote for Obama period.

Hillary i still believe you can win this!!!!!!!
YES WE WILL….HILLARY 2008/2012

Tami   May 12th, 2008 1:22 pm ET

I think Hillary needs to break ties with Dems, and go Independent, or I have recently thought Libertarian? She could force Obama and Mccain to put their big boy pants on!!! While she rallies the country behind her!!!!!!!! Go Girl!!!!!! Hillary 08!!!!!!

susie   May 12th, 2008 1:23 pm ET

The Democratic Party needs to fall on their face in Nov. for rigging the election.

Diva in Pennsylvania   May 12th, 2008 1:23 pm ET

@ An Agnostic Democrat:

LOVE IT!!! Billary will jump on this bandwagon after the nomination is handed to Obama and all of her angry, BITTER supporters will follow another loser down the hole…

GOBAMA '08!!!

Kelly, Cincinnati, Ohio   May 12th, 2008 1:23 pm ET

Keep in mind that Barr has only announced he is a candidate for the Libertarian Party presidential ticket. He still has to win the nomination at the LP national convention later this month. There is a very real chance he won't win that nomination. Alan Keys thought he was a shoe-in for the Constitution Party nomination a few weeks ago and he lost. Don't count your nominations before they are hatched.

shannonL   May 12th, 2008 1:23 pm ET

apparently this moron doesn't understand the importance of supreme court justices either….he will run, take away votes from McCain and ensure Obama will win.

Obama will appoint the most liberal justices the court has ever seen.

Barr doesn't care about conservativism.

win55   May 12th, 2008 1:23 pm ET

Let him run, it is a free country and a democracy. I know that MSNBC would have you think that the only person to run is Obama. I could not believe Obama thought there were 57 states, he certainly is not smarter than a 5th grader!

Marshall   May 12th, 2008 1:24 pm ET

Once again…Who is this guy? How many electorial votes has the Libritarians ever gotten?

Richard Staniszewski, Fayetteville GA   May 12th, 2008 1:24 pm ET

Oh No….Not Bob Barr..Where is Ron Paul??

Susan   May 12th, 2008 1:24 pm ET

Parties are built from the bottom up. The Liibertarians started out with some good ideas and started that process. Then they got hi-jacked by anyone who wanted to run independently for President. Lately they have become very right wing but they have lost their structure so they really haven't hurt the republicans much. Not nearly as much as Bush has!

This man will be amusing but not really important. I doubt he has enough support to even get in the debates. Maybe McCain will be able to save some face by blaming some of his loss on the dude, but he's going to lose by a very large margin I think.

Robert NYC & Miami   May 12th, 2008 1:24 pm ET

HILLARY SHOULD RUN AS AN INDEPENDENT AND SCREW OBAMA.

kathe oakland, california   May 12th, 2008 1:26 pm ET

Hey Bob Barr - if you believe all that stuff then why in hell are you running for anything. VOTE OBAMA MAN, where have you been???? Jumping into the race now how stupid. Go home, have some tea, converse with Consumer Man and both of you - get a life. Who needs you "johnny come lately" folks? Where have you been all this time, too afraid to put your foot in waters? Please, you just want to muddy the waters with your rantings and old man ravings.

GO OBama

Anonymous   May 12th, 2008 1:26 pm ET

Just another waste of money. I guess this is meant to benefit Democrats. I cannot imagine why anyone with sense would support Obama when he is supported by such losers as T. Kennedy, Wright, actors who spend their lives pretending to be someone else, people with as little experience in politics as he has-the list goes on.

Terrence (Winston Salem,NC)   May 12th, 2008 1:26 pm ET

YES. Finally the REPUBS get a taste of "RALPH NADER"….

Keith R.   May 12th, 2008 1:26 pm ET

There should be a rule against this. Don't get me wrong, I have no problem with creating waves against McCain, but in all fairness, all Presidential interests should be declared by a certain date and then if you lose the affiliation you went with, too bad. No running as Independent, green, purple, polka dotted or striped. You lost. Goodbye.

Randy - Denver   May 12th, 2008 1:27 pm ET

The Libertarian (and the Constitutionalist) party has been around, and on the ballot, since the '60s this is NOT a new party and has run MANY other candidates and usually they get around 3% of the total vote each. Nothing new here. the only difference is that this time neither party can get seem to find a candidate that will please all the party people and so the outsider parties, the fringe parties you might say, are starting to get attention. I do not suspect that they will win much more than their normal 3-5% but it is possible. (and for those of you who want to blame Mr. Clinton being elected on Mr. Perot you should go look at the votes, there were MORE votes for the Libertarian candidate than there have been for ANY other third party candidates, including Mr. Perot and Mr. Nader in the years they were supposed to have such an impact. The only "REAL" impact these candidates will have on the outcome of the votes will be the media will cover them for the first time, overall no significant impact though.

mitchell from arkansaw   May 12th, 2008 1:27 pm ET

yayyy! go bob barr!we republicans love you!now we don't have to vote for mccain! [obama '08]

hope   May 12th, 2008 1:28 pm ET

Men thinks and God links. Belief makes all possible!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

NickNas   May 12th, 2008 1:29 pm ET

MCCain is going to have a full on MELTDOWN if her ever get in a debate between Obama and Barr. He has nowhere to turn now. He can't try to play " I am just a Demapublican so Voter for me. The republicans are going to go through their own SPLIT now.

This is going to be good!

bill pike   May 12th, 2008 1:29 pm ET

put rush limpbaughs as vp, do nothing lou dobbs as secretary in any state except U.S., and maybe we got something.

Texican   May 12th, 2008 1:30 pm ET

Barr and Ralph Nader combined would not take more than .00001% of the votes in any state. This is provided they can get on the ballot.

Two losers that need to spend time talking to each other and the other loser. Ron Paul. Maybe they can join forces and take .00l% of the vote from the two parties.

Bottom Line. Don't waste your time thinking that they will have any influence in the outcome.

McCain will beat Obama. Two reasons: Loyalty and Integrity, which Barak loses on both counts.

allen   May 12th, 2008 1:30 pm ET

good news for democrats and progressives. EVERYONE! send BOB money! SEND BOB MONEY NOW!

EC   May 12th, 2008 1:30 pm ET

Please just go and sit down somewhere.

NO one cares what YOU think at this point in time. Jesus..

Keshab, Indiana   May 12th, 2008 1:31 pm ET

Another insane day dreamer!!!

Herman in LA   May 12th, 2008 1:32 pm ET

Some of you people would throw you vote behind a donkey if it would run… :(

Obama 08!!!

curt   May 12th, 2008 1:32 pm ET

Hey Rush, how do you like Operation chaos, the sequel

Dave in Houston   May 12th, 2008 1:32 pm ET

Perfect!

Here's someone who can slam McCain while Obama stays nobly above the fray.

Carl from Dallas   May 12th, 2008 1:34 pm ET

True Republicans would vote Ron Paul… those wanting a little more would vote for Barr.

True Democrats would vote for McCain… true socialists would vote for Obama and Clinton.

Welcome to the true politics we have today. Those getting insulted by it will be the same ones that cannot determine whether it is a hole in the ground or their own…. well you know

PA Voter 2008   May 12th, 2008 1:34 pm ET

Hillary as an Independent is the best idea yet. She's already proven that she can beat Obama in the biggest Blue state to take those electoral votes, and shes leading McCain in most others.
While everyone else is bungling around for the likes of Idaho and Wyoming….
HaHaHaHa…what genius that would be.

Tami   May 12th, 2008 1:34 pm ET

Hillary/Ron Paul 08!!!!!!!

Independent-woman-voter-for-Obama   May 12th, 2008 1:35 pm ET

Oh Goody! This is turning out to be like 1992, when Bill Clinton beat George the First, because Ross Perrot ran for office!

OBAMA/CASEY 08 &12!

Carl from Dallas   May 12th, 2008 1:36 pm ET

Now if Ron Paul becomes his running mate, and Mr. Barr speaks as honestly as Ron Paul, it would not surprise me for them to get 15-20% of the vote this november…

Douglas -- Rochester, MN   May 12th, 2008 1:36 pm ET

Whoop-de-do ………………………….

Farrell, Houston, Tx   May 12th, 2008 1:36 pm ET

Barr (LOL), this guy is a real loser.

Chris   May 12th, 2008 1:37 pm ET

Rep McCain
Dem Obama
Green Nader Spoiler #1
Lib Barr Spoiler #2
Inde Hillary?? Spoiler #3???

Man, what a mess this is now…

Not a Dem No More   May 12th, 2008 1:37 pm ET

It is amazing how people can switch from Democrat to Republican with ease. Just go with the political winds don't worry about the consequences it has for your country. Selfish, Selfish, Selfish, that is all I can say.

The best