June 10, 2008
Posted: June 10th, 2008 01:00 PM ET

From
Johnson's loans from Countrywide are drawing scrutiny.
Johnson's loans from Countrywide are drawing scrutiny.

(CNN) – Barack Obama on Tuesday brushed aside the notion that the head of his vice presidential search committee, Jim Johnson, contradicts the campaign's message because he has received favorable loans from Countrywide Financial - one of the companies at the center of the nation's mortgage crisis.

"I am not vetting my VP search committees for their mortgages," Obama said during a press conference in St. Louis, Missouri. "I mean this is a game that can be played - everybody you know who is anybody who is tangentially related to our campaign I think is going to have a whole host of relationships."

The comments come two days after the Wall Street Journal reported that Johnson was the recipient of over $7 million worth of home loans from Countrywide, made available through a program for friends of the company's chief executive officer.

Countrywide has taken a big hit during the current subprime loan crisis. Obama has often taken aim at the practice of issuing subprime loans.

The Republican National Committee immediately seized on that report, saying Johnson's appointment "raises serious questions about Obama’s judgment." Presumptive Republican nominee John McCain also criticized Obama, saying Monday that Johnson’s role "suggests a bit of a contradiction, talking about how his campaign is going to be not associated with people like that."

Obama tapped Johnson, a longtime Washington insider, to head his vice-presidential search late last month. Johnson held the same role for then-Democratic Presidential Candidate John Kerry in 2004. He has long been known for keeping a low profile while holding some of Washington's most powerful posts, including heading up mortgage giant Fannie Mae and the Brookings Institution.

Johnson is currently a vice chairman of Perseus LLC, a private banking firm.

Speaking to reporters on Tuesday, Obama suggested Johnson's past loans are irrelevant to his current position with the campaign.

At some point you know we just asked people to do their assignments," he said. "These aren't folks who are working for me. They are not people you know who I have assigned to a job in the future administration, and ultimately my assumption is that this is a discreet task that they are going to performing for me in the next two months."

McCain spokesman Tucker Bounds said it is "preposterous" for the Illinois senator to claim Johnson isn't working for him.

"Barack Obama has castigated Countrywide Financial, but now that Jim Johnson has been exposed for taking sweetheart deals from Countrywide’s CEO - Obama is in a state of denial," Bounds said. "It’s that brand of weak leadership and hypocrisy that shows why Barack Obama has no record of taking courageous stands or making change in Washington.”

Filed under: Barack Obama


Mark   June 10th, 2008 4:26 pm ET

OMG what is Obama doing to my democratic party.

More sleaze, more bad judgement.

Suziku   June 10th, 2008 4:21 pm ET

Obama has already clearly stated that "when" "he" says something about choosing a VP choice, then and only then will it be true! Enough speculation that doesn't mean anything.

Lynn in NM   June 10th, 2008 4:20 pm ET

Did they also check the blood types of every employee of Countrywide Mortgage to be sure his blood wasn't the same type? Get real, people. How nit-picky can you get???? Get a real job or go home!

Elmo   June 10th, 2008 4:13 pm ET

Johnson should either reveal the terms of all his loans from Countrywide, or he should resign.

After further review,Texas   June 10th, 2008 4:12 pm ET

DAVE,your so right but the truth just flies over these morons heads.The fix has been in for along time.

J in Dallas   June 10th, 2008 4:12 pm ET

This guy isn't picking the VP for Obama. He's been asked to do some research on a group of people being considered.

He's a glorified private investigator.

About who Obama should or shouldn't pick... Obama should pick whoever he thinks is best to run the country and will best aid Obama, in a manner of Obama's choosing, in fulfilling his duties as president.

I think down near reason #532 should be which VP candidate will help him win an election. If Obama 'appeases' anyone with a Hillary VP choice, he sets himself up for a presidency where around every corner there's someone looking for 'appeasement.'

Any ardent Hillary supporters stop to think that the country might be best served with a strong candidate like Obama as president AND Hillary in the Senate? If Hillary's the VP, then she can't publicly disagree and therefore can't shape matters of policy to her advantage. There's a reason that many former VPs have decried the position as mostly ceremonial and powerless.

MD   June 10th, 2008 4:10 pm ET

Barack Fans.

Get used to the hypocracy of Obama. Someday you may even recognize that you've been conned.

FAYE   June 10th, 2008 4:10 pm ET

OBAMA““it,s okay to trash to bill clinton (the

best president ever)everywhere —but my name

HUSSIEN and my wife MICHELLE and my BIRTH

CERTIFICATE is offlimits““lol–hypocrite –

Turning the page   June 10th, 2008 4:09 pm ET

The Republicans are so out of sync this election cycle that every move team Obama make causes them to jump.
They will try everything they can to throw the dogs (media & public) off the trail scent. But the real scent is extremely foul and unmistakable – it can't be missed. Not this time!!

GO OBAMA   June 10th, 2008 4:08 pm ET

GO OBAMA! Anyone who questions his “vetting” for President of the United States is “tangentially inconsequential.” Furthermore, everyone understands that voting “present” 130 times in the IL Senate is “trivial” compared to his having to sit in that church for 20 years just to advance his political career. He was not born to a black man from Kenya and a white woman from Kansas to end up earning the “infinitesimally” tiny salary of $14K a year as a community organizer. Nor did he attend Harvard so that he could steel a measly couple of thousand votes during his run for the IL Senate. NO! His vision has always been higher than that.

For country   June 10th, 2008 4:07 pm ET

The most deceiving and hypocritical candidate in American politics continues his ways.

Barack the Vote in RI   June 10th, 2008 4:06 pm ET

THIS WAS WORTH REPEATING......

To Andy J- and all the rest of you closet racists disguised as HRC "supporters"....

"How can you run on a platform for "change" when you hire washington insiders to find you a VP?"

Are you an idiot? Of course he's going to hire Washington insiders to find him a VP! Why on earth would he hire Washington OUTsiders to find potential VP candidates? What's the good of hiring someone to find strong candidates if they don't know who the heck anyone is?

"If you have such great judgement of character, shouldn't you be able to pick your own VP? "

Sure he could pick his own VP…oh wait…he's too busy CAMPAIGNING. It's standard procedure to put together a commitee who's sole purpose is to put together a list of strong VP candidates. Obama will trim down the list through meetings with the potential candidates and make the ultimate decision himself.

To AJ-

I would LOVE to see the fruits of this "research" you've done to uncover all of the BIG money Obama has taken from corporations and interest groups. I'm sure it's quite the revelation, seeing as how NO MAJOR NEWS ORGANIZATION, NOR THE RNC, HAS MENTIONED IT. You appear to be just another disgruntled Hillary supporter who is willing to destroy the country by voting for McCain out of spite, even though he represents everything your beloved Hillary has been fighting against for her entire political career. Now THAT'S what I call "informed voting

In Chicago   June 10th, 2008 4:05 pm ET

Obama is trying to make this a non-issue because it could cost him the election. Not because his volunteers are crooked, but because he himself has gotten the sweet loans and party perks (which is customary in Chicago, land of the payola). Mr. Obama's good friend Tony, who is now being indicted, bought Mr. Obama's neighbors house. Tony, sold the Obama's a good chunk of land from that house at a loss and then sold the house for a greater loss. That is a nice friend.

My Mom always told me that your friends reflect upon you. Mr. Obama is with crooks because he is a crook. This is going to be a dirty election folks. A crook on one side and an old robot on the other. Vote a third party. Break the demopublican hold on America.

Brendan H., San Antonio, TX   June 10th, 2008 4:04 pm ET

Neil Bush and the Silverado Savings and Loan scandal!!!!!!!!!!

But Jonson and Countrywide is bigger news?!?!?!?!

Jim Walker   June 10th, 2008 4:04 pm ET

After reading a lot of this crap, most of it from the Obama bar guide of what's your favorite flavor I have decided not to even try to rebut some of this crap here that takes rationiziation to a new level. Just going to vote for McCain. Him I can live with for 4 years but the big BO? Never!

EMJ   June 10th, 2008 4:02 pm ET

Wow! Any Clinton supporters claiming support for the Republican nominee had better go back and read the 'fight the liberal media' post.

It said "I love it! McCain has this wrapped up
welcome former hillary supporters! together we will rid the US of abortion and homosexual marriage before our family structure crumbles!"

And you seriously plan to vote for the party this moron comes from?
In case you forgot, if McCain gets in there, say hello to some very conservative supreme court judges who will effect our country for years to come. Don't cry when the goverment once again has the authority to tell a female American citizen what she can and can[t do regarding her own body. Continue to have the rest of the world hate the Republican 'kill, intimidate, over-run at all costs' view of how to treat the rest of the world. Keep giving it up for corporations, stay in Iraq for 100 years and continue another excuse for a terrortist attack here in the US. Any democrat that votes for McCain just because their candidate did not get the nomination is a selfish, immature and deserves the 3rd Bush term they are voting for.

FedUp   June 10th, 2008 4:02 pm ET

"Non-issue. GOP should get a life and worry about gas price that is cruising to $5."
------------------------------–

You mean those created by the Dems in Congress, DOUBLED YES DOUBLED since they took office, and increased $.35 in one month since they refused the bill put forth by the GOP. Get your heads out of you butts people, all you want is tax tax tax.

Barack the Vote in RI   June 10th, 2008 4:02 pm ET

To "Hoang", "aware", "jason" and the rest of you closet racists disguised as HRC "supporters"…….

If this is the best dirt the Republicans can dig up then they are desperate and lack common sense. Obviously Obama is doing something right……against all odds, he couldn't have come this far if he didn't know what the issues were and how to solve them. For you to throw your country under the bus, so to speak, and recklessly support a man like McCain, who embraces another 100 years in Iraq, tax cuts for the wealthy, high food and gas prices (not to mention gas tax gimmicks), outrageous job losses and unprecedented numbers of foreclosures then not only are you insane…..but you might need professional help as well. You guys must be prejudice as hell to choose suffering over a candidate who pretty much mirrors all the issues HRC stands for.....check out her website and get a clue.

FAYE   June 10th, 2008 4:00 pm ET

immy velman June 10th, 2008 1:47 pm ET

OBAMA VP"SEARCH TEAM" IS A FARCE. HE HAS DECIDED QUITE SOMETIME AGO TO DENY HILLARY CLINTON THE VP SPOT. AND THE "SO-CALLED SEARCH TEAM IS JUST A COVER.

YOU R SO RIGHT –DITTO

ch   June 10th, 2008 3:52 pm ET

Hillary has more than earned the VP spot – 18 million votes. The record number of votes received in a presidential primary (Yes, those were millions of REAL people that voted in REAL elections in FL and MI).

If Hillary is not on the ticket as VP then many of these 18 million (myself included) are GONE.

I have voted for a democrat in every primary, general and local election since 1988. And I want the opportunity to vote for the smartest and strongest candidate ever – HILLARY!

SAM4HILLARY   June 10th, 2008 3:51 pm ET

Obama is a typical politician. WHO PLAYS POLITICE -CHICAGO WAY WHICH IS QUIET DIRTY -– They take money from anybody and use everybody to futher their careers. Throw anyone under the bus who may pose a threat to their careers. Anyone who believes Obama is any different, needs their heads examined.

foosayer   June 10th, 2008 3:50 pm ET

Smacks of poor judgement on the campaign's part. People wh even have the appearance of insider sweetheart deals need to be vetted and spuned to stay on message.
Obama's response was generalized and oblique. Yes, WSJ is now Rupert's paper, which would give one pause, but investigative journalism is to be applauded no matter where it comes from. But could we hope for the same vigor in exploring McCains connections. Probably not enough time to vet them all.
Obama making light of the need to vet his top campaign people seems disingenuous. If this is the cleanest guy available, then perhaps Washington is too far gone for anyone to help.
Please, no more ammunition for the distractionists.

Republican Obama Supporter on day one who hopes for better from his campaign.

OBAMA FOR PRESIDENT   June 10th, 2008 3:50 pm ET

He This Is The Best That MC Wrinkle And His Team Can Come Up With They Are Done In Their Bid For The Presidency!

Sue   June 10th, 2008 3:50 pm ET

"I am not vetting my VP search committees for their mortgages," Obama said during a press conference in St. Louis, Missouri. "I mean this is a game that can be played — everybody you know who is anybody who is tangentially related to our campaign I think is going to have a whole host of relationships"

Right! All filthy rich panelists who stole from the poorer Americans to get their goodies are now going to tell Americans what their government should be like. Right!!

ms.sims   June 10th, 2008 3:49 pm ET

This is getting ridiculous already and the race just started...next they'll say his mailman cheated on his taxes last year, so that too must be something that goes against his character. You can tell they don't have any dirt to throw on him. In the 15 months he's been running the only things they could come up with are what OTHERS have said and DONE. I can't even believe McCain's camp would open up the topic of shady characters and dealing. You can just look at his past (Keating 5) and present and tell he's no saint. But I think people are smart enough to figure out the truth. With the internet so full of infomation why sit around and believe everything you hear research it for yourself!!

Todd   June 10th, 2008 3:47 pm ET

For all those responses that they don't trust Obama and don't like his policies and would rather write in Hillary, consider what the Nader protest votes got us. Yes, you have every right to protest by writing in HRC but will you complain when McCain maintaines the same policies as the current administration? If you don't like either candidate, it might be a better choice to then pick the one that offends the least. Don't tell me you liked Clinton and will then facilitate the presidency of the one diametrically opposed to her entire platform. That seems a bit short sighted.

Todd S   June 10th, 2008 3:46 pm ET

How can Hillary supporters continue to say that they will vote for McCain if she is not on the ticket. This is just beyond belief. By doing that you will crush most of what you belive in and it will not be able to be fixed by then voting her into office in 2012.

- McCain will appoint the justices to overturn Roe v Wade - He stated that on his website

- McCain will do NOTHING to improve healthcare

Regardless of what is said, this will be Bush's 3rd term but only worse.

Please do yourselves a service and get over the hurt and work to get the best option into the White House

Obama '08

Beltway Insider   June 10th, 2008 3:46 pm ET

Smart people knew Obama would be the democratic nominee.

Smart people know he will be the next Presdient.

Whining, complaining, crying, and throwing temper tantrums will not change this. Racists and bitter old hags will not change this. Nothing will change this.

Obama WILL be our next President. Period.

OBAMA '08

SAM4HILLARY   June 10th, 2008 3:46 pm ET

OBAMA""it,s okay to trash to bill clinton everywhere -but my name and my wife is offlimits""lol–hypocrite

Charlotte   June 10th, 2008 3:45 pm ET

I do not want Obama to pick Hillary! She needs to stay far away from him and his wife. Their anti-american mentality is scarry. I will write Hillary Clinton on my ballot in November. If he chooses her, I will 'gag' and vote for him, but I really perfer not to.

ron canada   June 10th, 2008 3:45 pm ET

every obama supporters is an ostrich whenever there is a concern about him they put there head in the sand and hope it will go away.the man has affiliated himself at one time or another with to many antiamerican people to be coincidental but they and the liberal news media (cnn) especially jack cafferty chooses to ignore the facts look at how he won the senate seat legal yes but very underhanded yet you say it's ok. he constantly lies about his relationships with certain people but thats ok. he calls his grandmother a racist then says she's a typical white person but thats ok he as thrown everybody that's been close to him under the bus but thats ok.if he gets elected president and trows you all under the bus will that be ok

MD   June 10th, 2008 3:45 pm ET

McCane and the Republicans are so desparate this time around that they have to hang on to any little bit of "news" to make themselves look better. It's sad and pathetic, but true that George Bush has created a sense of desparation within the Republican Party, the likes of which has not been seen since his father was running for his second term.

How we allowed George Bush a second term, is beyond me. However, I am positive, we will NOT allow a third term through McCane. Fearmongering will not work this time.

K   June 10th, 2008 3:45 pm ET

> I am a Hillary supporter and if Obama picks someone else for his v.p. , it will prove that he is an elitist who thinks he is better than Clinton and all of her supporters.

If you support her, why don't you listen to her when she says not to vote for McCain?

SAM4HILLARY   June 10th, 2008 3:44 pm ET

Remind OBAMA about his promise of PUBLIC FIANANCING -UH UMMM UM FLIP -FLOP

4HILLARY   June 10th, 2008 3:43 pm ET

Crushing dissent isn’t democratic.

Stealing votes isn’t democratic.

Identity theft isn’t democratic.

Democrats actually don’t even have a candidate in this race. McCain is a Republican and Obama is a Libertarian.

Not a Democrat in sight because the corrupt Democratic Party put out a contract on the only Democrat that had the guts to stand up for Democratic Principals.

Obama 's the winner 08/12   June 10th, 2008 3:42 pm ET

CNN Thanks for removing blogs

frank from SF   June 10th, 2008 3:42 pm ET

Dear Fact Check- How are Hillary Supporters racist. And can you explain to me why the 90% of Black Americans who voted for Obama(many of whom just because he is black) aren't racist. Remember Toni Morrison, a leading black author and activist called Clinton, the first Black president

You need to check your facts..

4HILLARY   June 10th, 2008 3:42 pm ET

Tell everyone “ we will vote for MCCAIN a repub b/c republicans have good ideas -just as obama said in the primary ——we will follow obama advice –and vote repubs-JOHN MCCAIN -

FRED ATLANTA, GA   June 10th, 2008 3:41 pm ET

Once again the republican party has nothing concrete on Obama so they try to attack him on the smallest things what they need to be worried about is how Mccain lied to the press saying he never said nice things about hillary when the video says otherwise he acutally denied saying anything. And they want to talk about judgement Mccain can't even remember things that he has said! All hillary supporters better think very hard on this one do you want to go down with the titanic or would you rather jump on the life boats?

LB   June 10th, 2008 3:41 pm ET

I hope the Rep. don't find out Obama eats spaghetti or he'll be accused of being in the Italian moffia.

4HILLARY   June 10th, 2008 3:41 pm ET

Great Idea – Lets elect the NOMINEE who recieved the MOST primary votes!

Obama is the corrupt DNC SELECTEE, and NOT the Legitimate NOMINEE. We shall never support this Marxist T*H*U*G!

Glenn   June 10th, 2008 3:41 pm ET

The Republican National Committee needs to know up front what goes down comes down. McBush's judgement is not only going to be questioned, but we all know that McSame's judgement is seriously flawed. It's even flawed within his own party. His age, senility and health will virtually cancel out McShame as a serious candidate even before we start questioning his substantive qualities and experiences.
He has lost his bearing as well. He is a flip flopper and is a bigger whinner than Bill Clintion and that says a lot.

julie mn   June 10th, 2008 3:40 pm ET

Hillary won kentucky because its sooo close to Arkansas,say obama, Oh ,,,what an idiot !!

Why is Donna B still with the dem party,? I will leave if they overturn the will of the people!!!! poor women full of hate and revenge, bet she is best friends with michelle O......

paulie_nj   June 10th, 2008 3:40 pm ET

I'm sure Obama's excuse will be the same as it was for Wright, Flegler, Ayers and Rezko: "He is not the person I know". Can't wait for him to use that one again.

James, Pennsylvania   June 10th, 2008 3:40 pm ET

Of course Obama doesn't have any lobbyists or corrupt people on his team........and he was never present during one of his reverand's racist anti-America rants, and he wasn't that close to Tony Rezko, and his uncle liberated Auschwitz, and he didn't race-bait by marching with Oprah to South Carolina during the primaries, and he didn't accept corporate money during his campaign, and his name was never Barry, and his parents weren't Ivy League educated, and he never called rural Pennsylvanians bitter, and he never winked at Canada and Mexico when he said he would be tough on NAFTA, and he was never raised by a Bank Vice-President Grandmother, and he was never privileged, and he never told his advisors that he would have to wait and evaluate whether or not it was okay to withdraw troops until after he was in office despite ALWAYS being opposed to the War in Iraq, no NOT Saint Obama!

Obama reminds me of that song Tell Me Lies, Tell Me Lies, Tell Me Sweet Little Lies.

TexDem   June 10th, 2008 3:40 pm ET

"Obama tapped Johnson, a longtime Washington insider, to head his vice-presidential search late last month. ".....
whose first reported public foray is a trip to Capitol Hill to huddle up with other "longtime Washington insiders"......
Change? Change?
Not a very good first step toward change.

4HILLARY   June 10th, 2008 3:39 pm ET

Can i please just finish me waffles??

ha ha MR WAFFLES

Jeffrey   June 10th, 2008 3:38 pm ET

Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin is an excellent choice for Obama’s Vice President! Vladimir Putin will be retired as Russian Prime Minister soon. He made a superb job for rejuvenating Russia from ashes to the rise of world’s energy superpower. We need him for our country to rejuvenate our economy. Please pick Vladimir Putin as Obama’s Vice President! You never find a better man/woman than Putin for Obama’s Vice President!

SONI4HILLARY   June 10th, 2008 3:38 pm ET

Obama Votes Party Line 3X More Than McCain

McCain has voted against his party on average 10.7% of the time.

Meanwhile, in his admittedly brief Senate career, Mr. Obama has only done so 3.5% of the time.

You can see for yourself the vast number of times Mr. McCain voted against his party, compared to the paltry few times Mr. Obama has done so.

(Which is of course one of the facts that has so endeared Senator McCain to our watchdog media, as opposed to the GOP base.)

Maybe we should try to be clever too, and start calling Mr. Obama ‘Barry Reid.’

frank from SF   June 10th, 2008 3:37 pm ET

a different kind of politician. Hmmm. No lobbyists. Obama criticized Countrywide Mtgs during his campaign. He criticized Clinton and McCain for their connections to lobbyists. Fire Johnson. Put your money with your mouth is. Or are you just speeched but no substance.

Hillary supporter who will not support Obama, unless Clinton is VP

SONI4HILLARY   June 10th, 2008 3:37 pm ET

Jim Geraghty takes a look at longstanding blog buzz over Barack Obama’s birth certificate, which the campaign refused to release to the St. Petersburg Times in April:

We tried to obtain a copy of Obama’s birth certificate, but his campaign would not release it and the state of Hawaii does not make such records public.
Has anyone seen it? Why shouldn’t the record be in the public domain for presidential candidates?

Chris, from WI   June 10th, 2008 3:37 pm ET

Lora B.

There is no rule that says the presumptive Democratic presidential nominee has to select the person who finished second in the primary season no matter how close the race was. He has every right to choose whomever he deems is fit for the job.

And stop pretending like you know exactly what's going on in Obama's thought process when trying to pick a VP. Saying he is elitist and thinks he's better than Clinton and her supporters if he doesn't pick her makes you sound very uneducated, bitter and ignorant. Think before you type.

And why does everyone think making Clinton VP will be so wonderful? Do any of you know what the role of the VP is? I really can't imagine Clinton wanting that job; she could do so much more for the Obama administration if she was in a different role.

Obama 's the winner 08/12   June 10th, 2008 3:35 pm ET

lORA B . /You HRC fallowers have been calling him elitist among many other untrue words dreamed up and now you are saying if HRC .not on ticket it will prove to you he is an elitist so the question is if you were unsure then why call people names you had no knowledge of????????????????????
You know Obama was raised poor ,lived poor but had the Hope of an education and paid fo years on his education .
Get off it if you like seeing flagged draped coffins, injured warriors,Roe V Wade abolished ,no home ,gas while Bush frolics overseas and you love McShame /Bush policy so much then stop threatening us since you are already a Repub lican so your wish for more of this with McShame will be filled

Shane   June 10th, 2008 3:34 pm ET

I THOUGHT HE SAID " NO MORE OF THE SAME OLD WASHINGTON POLITICS"

Fight the liberal media!   June 10th, 2008 3:33 pm ET

straight from Hillaryclinton.com

HILLARY WE ARE WITH YOU ALL THE WAY…
BUT WE WILL NOT VOTE BO…

by Vel at 6/7/2008 12:33:04 PM

[Login or Create Account to Reply]
Hillary……………………………………
We support you FOREVER!!!

BUT we will NEVER support BO!!! He doesn't deserve it! He stole it!!! NEVER means NEVER!!!

Also, we will FOREVER remember what BO, his nasty supporters, MSM, & the UNdemocratic DNC did in this election.

McCain 08!!!

Hillary 2012!!!

by People at 6/7/2008 1:33:08 PM

I love it! McCain has this wrapped up
welcome former hillary supporters! together we will rid the US of abortion and homosexual marriage before our family structure crumbles! i dont care how many young women he hs affairs with, that is who you are supposed to have affairs with not young men or old woman. Go riddence liberal elite Obamorons!

BIFF, BIFFINGTON...   June 10th, 2008 3:33 pm ET

Bjoerlingfan

YOU WILL NOT RECEIVE LUCID, LOGICAL OR RATIONAL RESPONSES FROM AJ NOR ANDY J.

They are only paid to attack... not think.

MurphyMorseJohnson   June 10th, 2008 3:30 pm ET

While McCain is floundering around with buttons, John, let's hope he doesn't push the wrong one.

Vote Democrat

California Girl   June 10th, 2008 3:30 pm ET

MJames: Stop the Hate.

tony   June 10th, 2008 3:30 pm ET

Countrywide Mortgage guy -heads the VP Search and all Obama can say is that we are not getting mortgages-
He doesn't understand that it is this attitude as well as these types of relationships that will keep him OUT of the White House–
Some set !!
If that was McCain–we wouldn't hear anything but-
How dare him–think we are so stupid--

rd texas   June 10th, 2008 3:29 pm ET

obama or his staff...one day will figure it out...what a bunch of peaheads...and they want my vote....it aint going to happen...writting in hillary

Doh   June 10th, 2008 3:29 pm ET

Hey "Hoang, UC Berkeley" there are other third party candiates you know!! If Obama or Mcsane does not fit your bill you do have a choice.
You Clinton immature cry baby!!!

Rob   June 10th, 2008 3:27 pm ET

This looks bad on Obama, but what gets me angry is people like this that KNOW they have shady pasts or connections not stepping down or withdrawing their services. People have gotten so used to getting over they don't understand the concept of an honorable withdrawal.

Thee, Los Angeles   June 10th, 2008 3:25 pm ET

Hoang UC Berkley,

Quit your crying. The same reason you wouldn't vote for Obama is the same reason why I didn't vote for HRC. I don't trust her. Why are you so bitter? Nobody is forcing you to vote for Obama. Go ahead and stay home, write in HRC's name, or vote for McCain.

Maybe I should send a box of tissue over to UC Berkley with the attention of Hoang! You can use that to wipe your tears away. Don't be a poor sports Hoang, if you are a Dem than vote for a Dem. You are from UC Berkley for crying out loud. Isn't that where the left wing liberals are from?

Good luck with your decisions!

brice, greenville, south carolina   June 10th, 2008 3:24 pm ET

I KNOW SOMEONE WHO IS IN JAIL. DOES THAT MAKE ME A CRIMINAL?

Lora B.   June 10th, 2008 3:21 pm ET

Yep, we Clinton supporters may be bitter and angry, but we're not racists, and we're certainly not worthless. In fact, we're gonna band together come November and show you all what we're made of. In November, we will remember!

Alan Boyer   June 10th, 2008 3:19 pm ET

McCain continues to demonstrate that he would rather attack people than debate the issues. His strategy team must be afraid on an intellectual conversation with Obama because they know that McCain is short on intellect as well as communication and leadership skills.

MJAMES   June 10th, 2008 3:18 pm ET

OMG 'Fight the liberal media's' post is very scary. I no longer know what was going on in George Wallace's head back in the 60's just by reading that post. Jeez, I am a life long Republican who is now leaning towards the democratic party this year but then BAM, out comes a racist, lying, slimey, rant by someone who claims to be a democrat. Oh, wait, I forgot, he is a Clinton supporter so that explains the racist republican mindset.

Oh yeah, Lisa CA, please GET REAL, educate yourself please.

Penn State   June 10th, 2008 3:16 pm ET

Hoang, UC Berkeley this is for you. With all respect you like many others have the right to complain about what could or might have been, since HILLARY lost the nomination I, like many others who are true DEMOCRAT will be voting for that candidate, in this case OBAMA. And the other thing you forget is a vote for MCBUSH is disrepecting the other DEMOCRAT voters who voted for HILLARY because she said it her self let forget about are differences and be one DEMOCRAT and WHITE BELONG TO DEMOCRAT COME NOV 08. so go ahead and tell yourself and many other how disapointed you are because HILLARY wasn't chosen. 18 mil for HILLARY and 18mil for OBAMA = power of unity. By the way I vote for HILLARY but now I am for OBAMA becuase I am true DEMOCRAT, period.

Obama /C.Kennedy   June 10th, 2008 3:16 pm ET

The night Obama reached his goal McShame thought he could not be out shined so gave a speech in N.Orleans and was worried NO PEOPLE would attend so to locate this crowd they went searching for people in Sr.Citizen homes for the 600 in attendance .

Way to GO OBAMA in 8 years from now you will go down as the greatest Preident we ever had .

B. OBAMA /C.KENNEDY 08/12

Smiley from Conyers, GA   June 10th, 2008 3:16 pm ET

I am so sick and tired of people calling Obama a Clinton basher! She lost because she had a horrible strategy. She bashed him twice as hard as he bashed her.

Secondly, mostly every politician you come across will know some CEO from some company. They all run in the same circles. Get over it people. Get over yourselves! This is how the rich become famous. They rub elbows with people who are rich just like themselves.

Lastly folks, please get a thesaurus, dictionary or write your comments in Word then cut & paste. For the love of this great country too many of you will have foreigners thinking we're all stupid!

Jeff   June 10th, 2008 3:16 pm ET

You kids get off my lawn!

Glenn   June 10th, 2008 3:16 pm ET

To those that want to overlook Obama's hypocrisy on this issue of Jim Johnson and Eric Holder heading his VP vetting team by pointing to McCain's own problems with Washington lobbyists and insiders, I have only this to say: Two wrongs don't make a right!

Richard, FL   June 10th, 2008 3:15 pm ET

HILLARY SUPPORTERS VOTING FOR MCCAIN:

Please tell all the other Hillary supporters why, when she says she hopes and prays that her supporters will support Obama, she cannot be trusted to be honest or care about what happens to our nation.

All America is waiting to hear.

TXBad1   June 10th, 2008 3:15 pm ET

This says it all
"Barack Obama has castigated Countrywide Financial, but now that Jim Johnson has been exposed for taking sweetheart deals from Countrywide’s CEO — Obama is in a state of denial," Bounds said. "It’s that brand of weak leadership and hypocrisy that shows why Barack Obama has no record of taking courageous stands or making change in Washington.”

Obama is Nothing of a leader or the right Person to Lead the United States as President!, Obamanites hers your Savior, a Hypocrite !

McCain all the way!

just a guy   June 10th, 2008 3:14 pm ET

you can't change the country in a day. Denying capable people oppurtunity to be a part of the change is going against the change itself. Only fools would do something like branding a person and then sidelining him till he is suitable for your gains.

Where does the stupidity end   June 10th, 2008 3:13 pm ET

Rachel Ray had to give up her scarf, because some idiot said it looked too Middle Eastern. When did we become so paranoid? However, in support of that, since I believe the terrorists wear underwear, I pledge never to wear underwear again.

I would like all the narrow minded Muslim haters to go even further – I have it on good advice that all Muslims, especially the terrorists, breath air, therefore..........

...and a final shout-out to Andy J, NY, who gave himself away with his the last three words in his post. Just pining away for them good old days when McCarthy was all the rage, eh? Looks like Obama's got all you right wing wackos in a tizzy now, doesn't he? ...and I'm lov'in it!

Crush Rush   June 10th, 2008 3:13 pm ET

Did mccain choose his new world dictator yet?Wait till he picks the real choice for Republican "puppet to be" if you want to see scary.

G   June 10th, 2008 3:12 pm ET

Picking at straws why don't you report about John Mccain lobbyist ties. Especially the guy responsible for the mortgage crisis in the U.S is giving Mccain economic advice. This is far more interesting!

The O   June 10th, 2008 3:12 pm ET

BARACK THE VOTE!!!!!!!

BARACK / SEBELIUS 08

BARACK / SEBELIUS 08

BARACK THE VOTE!!!!!!!!

Jason   June 10th, 2008 3:12 pm ET

57 States. The man is a genius.

Tonya, Richmond, VA   June 10th, 2008 3:11 pm ET

I'll be glad when November gets here so everyone can just shut up with their speculations. Good GOD.

MJAMES   June 10th, 2008 3:11 pm ET

This just in – A McDonald's restaurant in Chicago once visited by Obama in 2003 has been robbed. Therefore, it is concluded that Obama is a robbery supporter, is soft on crime, or that all criminals support Obama. In an earlier story, as a life long Catholic, I am now considered a terrorist myself because there is such a thing as the IRA in Ireland. I also saw a story where Obama had watched a movie that involved a murder and immediatly the RNC said that was proof Obama was not ready to run the country and that all murederers support Obama. I can make this junk up just as well as Republicans and the Clinton-sore losing-haters.

FactCheck   June 10th, 2008 3:10 pm ET

Dear bitter/angry/racists/worthless Clinton supporters... if you don't like it here so much why don't you all get the h*ll out? When McSame gets through outsourcing your jobs (pro NAFTA), cutting your healthcare, cutting social security and foreclosing your homes, Canada and Mexico will start to look awfully tempting.

corin   June 10th, 2008 3:10 pm ET

omgha! mccain campaign is hosted and hugged by a hurd of lobbyist!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! They dont even have platform to stand on!!! lol this is going to be a rough year for mccain!!!

Democrats 08

Lora B.   June 10th, 2008 3:10 pm ET

I am a Hillary supporter and if Obama picks someone else for his v.p. , it will prove that he is an elitist who thinks he is better than Clinton and all of her supporters.

Obama should appease dems first and foremost with his v.p. choice. He should not attempt to satisfy independents and republicans with his choice as they are not his core constituency.

If Clinton is not offered the v.p. slot, I will vote for McCain. McCain is a moderate and any supreme court nominees will likely be another "Sandra Day O'Conner". After all, republicans really don't want to overturn Roe v. Wade. Why would they – then the would lose the anti-abortion zealots that support their re-election bids. And besides, republicans don't want to support the babies already born – what would they do with the millions more born if the law were overturned?

Loretta from California   June 10th, 2008 3:09 pm ET

Ok! I admit it, my mortgage is owned by Countrywide too. I had better go and beat myself.

goodcitizen   June 10th, 2008 3:09 pm ET

Obama's so called "CHANGE"=SOS!
The real person can have a change is our hero-Hillary Clinton!

Hillary is PEOPLE'S president, we are staying with her forever!

John   June 10th, 2008 3:08 pm ET

McCain will veto beers while Obama is out visiting all 57 states.

A flub is a flub. Let it go.

Cynthia   June 10th, 2008 3:08 pm ET

What are the Republicans nervous about – the Committee's recommendations of VP candidates? You all (the Republicans) have been tough on the people for eight years, so take it like a man. What's the best thing that can happen – the Democrats take back the White House.

Pat   June 10th, 2008 3:08 pm ET

eam

Baa! Baa!!

:)

Get real. We aren't sheep. You're just scared that your way of life will end when we get a Democrat in the white house.

Charlotte   June 10th, 2008 3:07 pm ET

Obama is a typical politician. They take money from anybody and use everybody to futher their careers. Throw anyone under the bus who may pose a threat to their careers. Anyone who believes Obama is any different, needs their heads examined.

MLG   June 10th, 2008 3:07 pm ET

McCain 08

Keepin it simple in CT   June 10th, 2008 3:07 pm ET

If you liked the status of our country during the past 8 years, then vote for McCain....

If you are willing to take a risk on something different (but of course with no guarantee) then vote Obama... but if he fails don't complain and vote again in 2012 for someone else

If you are a sore-loser Hillary supporter (not that all are, some are graceful and proud) and vote for McCain just out of protest that she was beat (and yes it was close) than you really need to check your emotional maturity.....

McPREZ08   June 10th, 2008 3:07 pm ET

One man one woman 4ever. We RULE and don't forget it.

No McBush   June 10th, 2008 3:06 pm ET

McCain leaving his first wife (after her accident) to marry Cindy should be a bigger issue than this!!!!

Huffington post has an article with McBush's 1st wife, where she said a big Issue in their marriage was that McBush tried to act 25, when he was 40???? (That's right sleeping around, and partying, while his 1st wife loss 4-5 inches in height due to crushed and removed bones!!!) And has a bad limp. But no you are a conservative........... RIGHT! Conveniently Conservative-LOL

But we care that a non paid volunteer got a mortgage when everyone else did?????? And that helps you how?

Billy J Austin, TX   June 10th, 2008 3:06 pm ET

Hillary or Wes Clark for VP. Ya don't need a bunch of well heeled northern effete to tell ya that, Barack. Man up, and bring the party together.

sunny florida   June 10th, 2008 3:06 pm ET

Here we go again. The anointed one says one thing, distances himself from the people/staff around him who are saying or doing what he says he deplores, then he blames the opponent on "playing games"(your best defense is a good offense). Give me a break. This is "new politics"? Changing the way we do business in Washington? Same old, same old. Typical politician with a shiny new look. Audacity of Hype is more like it. If this is as an important decision as there is out there for him at this point, what's wrong with asking that he use advisors who have no "ties" (aka sounds similar to lobbyists, eh?) with questionable, conflict-of-interest decisions or relationships? Not alot to ask!

This long-time Independent, turned Democrat (not for Obama), is turning back to Independent. America is in serious trouble if this guy gets elected. “NOBama. Keep the Change”.

California Girl   June 10th, 2008 3:05 pm ET

This is not good! Like I said before, the Republican is working over-time to find any kind of dirt on Obama. Let the games begin.

This is what they do, to win!

buba, cincinnati oh   June 10th, 2008 3:05 pm ET

Folks, where's the meat?
Getting money and services from lobbysts is the issue here!
I don't see how a loan between two parties can be linked to Obama's campaign since it does not benefit it in any way.
If there was something fishy with that loan, Mccain should have some DA file charges or shut up.
By his own far reaching logic, McCain should be put on trial for murder or wrongful death for authorizing the war in Iraq...duh!

robert   June 10th, 2008 3:04 pm ET

thats the least of it Joe Johnson is a member of the American Bilderberg group–not a good thing

history repeats   June 10th, 2008 3:03 pm ET

wow obama must really be clean! the best they can do id hit him because of someone elses relationship with one of the largest mortgage companies in the country? what did these people expect there was a mortgage boom alot of people were making money did you think jim johnson was going to turn down doing business with countrywide because of their questionable sub prime loans? nobody except mortgage brokers knew about the sub prime crisis until it exploded so please stop with this nonsense...

salih   June 10th, 2008 3:03 pm ET

response to huong
i was wondering something..you seemed focus on trust..how did you come to trust hilary after all the misquotes, retractions of stories, fund raising rules that were broken, hiring of incompetent campaign leaders that she fired, losing a huge lead in the campaign, misjudging on the importance of where she should show up, trying to have the rules changed when she wanted, terrible money management, voting for a terrible was that has bankrupt the U.S. financially and morally...just what did you find to trust there..is that how you want the country run?

TXBad1   June 10th, 2008 3:03 pm ET

Obama, and any other than Hillary will be a total slap in the Face to all her supporters, and you Know what, Not only will Obama Loose in November but all those super delegates running they can say bye bye also, and those running next year till we the Voters reform the DNC!

JOEL   June 10th, 2008 3:02 pm ET

Obama / Gore 08 that all am saying.

MJY   June 10th, 2008 3:01 pm ET

Please Hillary supporters vote for Ralph Nader or BOB BARR.... NOT MCCAIN

John Smith   June 10th, 2008 3:01 pm ET

This will help McCain, just in case he gets a "heart attack" in the process. There will be plenty of people to help him to the ER room in time. Think of all the Obama folks who will be there, and are very sympathetic!

So, for health reasons, Obama should probably accept only 1-2 of these to help McCain out! Otherwise, I see no use for such a process.

Given that these guys generall get "older very fast" when they are in office, who would want to get MCain to the Oval Office and risk the prospect of an aging president!

Down with Obama   June 10th, 2008 3:00 pm ET

You Obamabots are really good and drinking kool-aid!!!!!!!!!!

Most don't have a mind of their own.....too bad...lots of disappointment for you all in November....just hope they put something in your kool-aid that will calm you all down!!!

Never Ever Obama Rama   June 10th, 2008 3:00 pm ET

This is what Obama calls change, sounds like the same old politics to me. I voted for Hillary because I felt she was the strongest canidate to run this country. I don't think Obama is a very strong canidate to be running this country. That's why this Democrat will be voting Republican in Nov.

MCCAIN 08!

Don   June 10th, 2008 2:59 pm ET

This is so arrogant of him to have criticized countrywide and has a rep from them vetting for him. I think Obama is smarter than he looks. He figured out a way to preach change, yet he cannot move forward because his inexperience will not allow him use people out of Washington. So he uses the same old people so that they can make him look good and he takes all the credit. He is definitely not the messiah and his supporters who bash Clinton and think they will change the USA with Obama, have a better shot at seeing snow in WestAfrica. CNN post my comment instead of some of these vague ones.

I VETOED MCCA!   June 10th, 2008 2:59 pm ET

I Think It Shows A Lack Of Judgement, Foresight, Experience, And Patriotism To VETO MY BEER!

MJY   June 10th, 2008 2:59 pm ET

So your going to be loyal to a guy you really dont want in office anyway to get back at a guy, who in my eyes, won fair and square??? WOW This election is really going to show us where we really are as a country. People bring up the subject experience..... Look who we had in office for the last 8 years....... Real experience vet their......

I see why most people dont want to vote. For what.

I am almost certain McCain is going to win this election. Just pray for all the people that are going to dye for no apparent reason. Im not going to worry cause I will move to Europe where there money is actually worth something.......

john fom LA   June 10th, 2008 2:58 pm ET

I love this-CHANGE you CAN NOT believe in-I do agree with one Obamabot-that this Whole election is VERY "American Idol"-Obama is popular so let's elect him!-What has this country come to????

1st Mrs. McCain is a HERO   June 10th, 2008 2:58 pm ET

The Republican National Committee immediately seized on that report, saying Johnson's appointment "raises serious questions about Obama’s judgment."

Yeah,,, well where is the judgement for RNC letting McCain VETO EVERY SINGLE BEER... I find that frightening..!!

.................Save Beer from McCain vetos... Now that poor judgement...

........McCain's judgement... something he should have a drink on.....

Ron Borzini   June 10th, 2008 2:57 pm ET

McCain will be our Herbert Hoover; OBAMA IS OUR FDR.

Cindy,CA   June 10th, 2008 2:57 pm ET

In the end it all comes down to who can bring in the most money to the party. We will buy our president and feel sorry when he messes up. We need to look at the long term results of our actions today. There is no quick fix to America's problems we are dealing with. We don't need a Obama type to buy his way in and control our country...

MurphyMorseJohnson   June 10th, 2008 2:56 pm ET

The proof of the pudding of choosing a vice presidential candidate will be in the ultimate choice that is made. It is time to set all of the belly aching, cry-babying, and sour grapes aside. As for the those who pulled W's off of White House type writers, you will probably never grow up. For the those who want a Republican-rich person's-economy, it's nice to know somebody who's filthy rich.

However, If you want an economy guided by Democrats, then vote to END spending your tax dollars on: Iraq; the gas/oil moguls like Cheney; the health care millionaires Republican Club; the outsourcing of jobs and American industry, the outpricing of a college education, the end of the American dream of owning a home.

VOTE DEMOCRAT, DEMOCRAT, AND MORE DEMOCRAT!

Stephen   June 10th, 2008 2:56 pm ET

This should say "discrete" - meaning singular - not "discreet" - meaning private. That changes the meaning substantially.

Will in Richmond, VA   June 10th, 2008 2:56 pm ET

Can I buy an Issue?

If Obama talks to someone who once worked with a person who at one time bought coffee for a lady who had her dog walked by a boy whose father was best friends with a lobbyist, then of course that means Obama is a hypocrite.

Please... no really, PLEASE spare me.

Obama/anyone whom he chooses 08

Marilyn   June 10th, 2008 2:56 pm ET

It doesn't matter who is on his VP team and it doesn't matter who he picks as his running mate! Moderate Democrats are not going to vote for him. He is too far to the left and those of us who don't like him will not vote for him anyway. Just because we are Democrats doesn't mean we have to bow down before Howard Dean and the DNC!

Ken   June 10th, 2008 2:55 pm ET

I regret my vote for Obama , had I known what I know now , I would have chosen Clinton.
Obama is an absolute phoney , reads a teleprompter well , delivers elaborate speeches , but with no substance .
He has fooled a lot of people , including me.
McCain is not only the better but also the safer choice of the two of them.

If not Hillary....then McCain   June 10th, 2008 2:55 pm ET

Once again my entire comment was sent to lala land, are you censoring these bogs CNN?

We know about you wanting to have a pro Obama media presence, but really...does the FCC have any say in your processes?

Floyd Goff   June 10th, 2008 2:54 pm ET

My comment will probably not be posted because I am not making a an out of my way effort to give a twisted slant to every word that Obama says, or about every person he has ever come into contact with. I was H. Clinton supporter, but it was very clear that your reporting was bias in her favor. Thanks for that, but I don't see how you think the public is so stupid that they can't see,read or count. You never see the kind picking on McCain, or H.Cinton for people they have come into contact with during there life time.Your biased panel is made up of two white women and two men, and it stands out every time they open thier mouth. You speak of H.Clintons' 18 million reasons to stay in the race. She says herself Obama out spent her.In spite of this she has a big debt and Obama has money in his campaign. H.Clinton does not have supporters in those numbers, those were Republicans who do not want to run against Obama, and there money went to Republicans where thier hearts are. The second group were in many cases people not very well read, and what they are is what they are, or I could say what your political news crew display every day.

steinway   June 10th, 2008 2:54 pm ET

Guess since Rezko (who wasn't "working for him" either) is getting fitted for pinstripes Johnson was his next best choice which seems logical for a product of the Chicago Daley machine.

Maybe Axelrod can recommend some other Exelon employees not to work for him or at least help him rewrite some of his proposals?

Once again Barry has proven that he is highly adept at speaking out of both sides of his mouth.

Mike   June 10th, 2008 2:53 pm ET

To all you McCain patsies, by this time next year your children or grandchildren could be sunning and funning in the beautiful and friendly country of IRAN. God bless them all.

Rico in Arkansas   June 10th, 2008 2:53 pm ET

MY FIRST MORTGAGE WAS THRU COUNTRYWIDE..AM I NOW UNFIT? PEOPLE YOU ARE ALL STUPID. WHILE SUB PRIME LENDING IS NOT GREAT. IT IS THE WAY THE WORLD WORKED AND HAS WORKED FOR YEARS. JSUT BECAUSE NOW IT HAS BEEN EXPOSED AS BEING BAD, YOU CAN'T START POINTING THE FINGER AT EVERY OPERSON WHO HAS TAKEN OUT A LONE. BE REAL. THE MAJORITY OF THE COUNTRY HAS BEEN INVOLVED IN SOME SORT OF LOAN ACTIVITY ARE THEY ALL BAD PEOPLE?

@ HOANG IN BERKLEY. IT IS NOT WORNG TO NOT TRUST A CANDIDATE, BUT TO NOT TRUST HIM JUST BECAUSE IS EITHER RACIST OR PREJUDICE. WHEN SOME OF YOU OBAMA HATERS WHO SUPPOSEDLY ARE DEMOCRATS AND LOVE HILLARY WHO, ALSO SUPPORTS OBAMA, START COMING WITH ACTUAL REASONS TO NOT TRUST OBAMA MAYBE THE RACIST LABELS WOULD LEAVE.

I MEAN ACTUAL REASONS NOT PROPOGANDA OR FALSEHOODS.
EMPTY HATE OR MISTRUST = RACISM

CN, Florida   June 10th, 2008 2:52 pm ET

AJ, the disaster is happening RIGHT NOW, it's called "George Bush" and the Republican GOP, including McCain.

Let's debate the real issues not this garbage, that kind of politics doesn't work anymore. Tell me what Bush is doing to lower that $ 4.0 a gallon gas price, or to fix the mortgage mess or to get us out of Iraq...

Mike   June 10th, 2008 2:52 pm ET

To all you McCain patsies, by this time next your children or grandchildren could be sunning and funning in the beautiful and friendly country of IRAN. God bless them all.

Mr.President - Obama !   June 10th, 2008 2:51 pm ET

Please take your time to arrive at a wise decision.WE ARE WITH YOU !!!!

John McShame is a shame to all old people.I have grand parents and i love and respect them a lot.But this guy belongs to a different league all together.Is the GOP so dumb?Why did you even consider him as a nominee?
Pathetic GOP, pathetic !

GObama ! Go Democrats !
2008 – infinity !

Arnie, NY   June 10th, 2008 2:51 pm ET

This just further convinces us Hillary supporters that we should either
vote for Mccain or stay home in November. Either way, Obama loses at least 20% of the total Democratic vote and even the Obamarite idiots can do that math.

MurphyMorseJohnson   June 10th, 2008 2:51 pm ET

The proof of the pudding of choosing a vice president will be in the ultimate choice that is made. It is time to set all of the belly aching, cry-babying, and sour grapes aside. As for the rest who pulled W's off of White House type writers, you will probably never grow up. For the rest who want a Republican-rich person's-economy.

However, If you want an economy guided by Democrats, then vote to END spending your tax dollars on: Iraq; the gas/oil moguls like Cheney; the health care millionaires Republican Club; the outsourcing of jobs and American industry, the outpricing of a college education, the end of the American dream of owning a home.

VOTE DEMOCRAT, DEMOCRAT, AND MORE DEMOCRAT!

Unshrub   June 10th, 2008 2:50 pm ET

If Obama scratches his nose the republicans scream it raises serious questions about Obama’s judgment.

Farrell, Houston, Tx   June 10th, 2008 2:49 pm ET

OBAMA, PLEASE DON'T VETO EVERY SINGLE BEER LIKE JOHN MCCAIN SAYS HE'LL DO.

Liz   June 10th, 2008 2:49 pm ET

Poor John McCain – this is the best he can do! Forget about the economy, Iraq etc. The Republican "task force" is out to find any tiny thing they can! After all they know they can't win on issues, honesty or integrity. So they must resort to a smear campaign any chance they can get. Retire McCain and make way for real change and yes even new ideas different from yours and your buddy Bush!! Go Obama!!!!

Chryssy   June 10th, 2008 2:49 pm ET

Oh blah blah blah! Sorry to say that this new, energized hip generation will find out very soon what this older, wiser, hip 60's child found out years ago. No one in politics has clean hands, and if you are so idealistic you think Obama can "change the way things are done in Washington", you will get your little teeny sweet heart broken. Wake up and smell your lattes kids. This is a dirty game played by those who play with dirty people. They are attracted like flies to this profession. Just promise yourself one thing, that no matter what, you will never be so disillusioned that you become complacent and allow another George Bush in the White House. He is the worst in my memory. And ignore any such commentary against Obama. It is ludicrous. Politics has always made strange bedfellows.

Republican for OBAMA 08   June 10th, 2008 2:49 pm ET

Is this the best that my party can do. Look america, gas is going to $5 a gallon, the rich are getting richer, Obama is going to at least cut the taxes for people making under$249K, and then give us all another tax rebate. Add in heathcare, the debacle in Iraq, and the real estate mess even a moderate republican like myself has to say ENOUGH. I think I will try OBAMA!!

P!O! republican!!!

Lynn   June 10th, 2008 2:49 pm ET

Another controversy. How many more skeletons does he have in his and Michelle's closet. Is he going to be like Bush and all the records has been destroyed. Remember he has been running for President since l996 when he became a State Senator and voted present over 100 times on issues he did not want to come back to haunt him.

eam   June 10th, 2008 2:49 pm ET

OBAMA IS JUST THE BLACK VERSION OF BUSH. WHAT A LAME LOSER ! AND I LIKE HOW HIS SHEEP JUSTIFY ANYTHING HE DOES. SHEEP ARE ALL YOU PEOPLE ARE, HOPE EVEYONE IS READY FOR THE THIRD WORLD WAR, THAT IS THE ONLY THING OBAMA WILL DELIVER .

GS   June 10th, 2008 2:49 pm ET

And the Beat goes on. Yes, we all know someone who knows someone who has a shaddy past. But his someone is in the position of choosing the #2 person in line for our presidency. Not something to ignore. It would be better if he cut the man off and go for someone else to choose the next VP. It's not brain surgery... he has no effect on his candidancy.. except he is on a no nothing committee. Obama already knows who he wanted as a VP.. he's done his homework for the past few weeks. Just cut the man lose and there is no more talk

Cathy in Illinois   June 10th, 2008 2:48 pm ET

Have ANY of you people ever worked in the political arena???
Here's the scoop, folks... if he wants to be elected in November, then he just CANNOT totally ignore the 18 million voters who voted for Hillary Clinton. Whoever he picks for VP whether it's Hillary or someone else, it's got to be someone that will bring some of those disenfranchised Clinton voters back in to the fold. Think about it, folks. It's not rocket science.

Maxine   June 10th, 2008 2:48 pm ET

Mccain is the same polices as Bush. Bush Administration put this whole country in a mess just a mess. VOTE MCCAIN our country will go down just like our ECONOMY and for the American people to TRUST Mccain who will embrace Bush Polices PLEASE We American people are tried of been fooled by the Repubicans.

Gary in VA   June 10th, 2008 2:47 pm ET

I am kinda of hoping that some of the negative white people on here get McCain so when American goes to crap I can laugh and say I told you so. I have a recession proof job. I am a Radiologist and as longs as people need radiological diagnostic diagnosis I will be getting a paycheck. Vote McCain, I can't wait to get the last laugh. Ha, ha, ha,ha. My mother always told me a hard head makes a soft behind.

Arnie, NY   June 10th, 2008 2:47 pm ET

A true picture of Obama is slowly beginning to surface. By election day
it will surely be a very ugly picture and he will be buried in a landslide.

David   June 10th, 2008 2:47 pm ET

AJ... what research are u talking about? Obama has set records for small donors and individuals. Legally corporations can't donate money to campaigns. They do it through PAC's and 527 groups. Both of which Obama has denounced. He doesn't accept money from corporations directly or indirectly, Your research is completely flawed. Name one corporation that has donated to his campaign.

Concerned Democrat   June 10th, 2008 2:45 pm ET

I'll check back in after Denver...these idiotic news stories are pathetic.

Michael Lorton, Virginia   June 10th, 2008 2:45 pm ET

When you have "them" by their wallets........you have total control.......and when money speaks......the truth remains silent.

Berat, Park Ridge, IL   June 10th, 2008 2:44 pm ET

Let me get this straight... McCain's CAMPAIGN MANAGER was ACTIVELY working as a lobbyist during the primaries... but McCain and the RNC are jumping on OBAMA for a guy who's vetting his potential vice-presidents? Does the RNC SERIOUSLY think they're gonna win this one???

Sometimes, I get very frustrated with the Democratic Party - enough to leave. But then I get a glimpse of just how hypocritical the other side is and thank my lucky stars I am not, nor have I ever been, a member of the Republican Party.

Fight the liberal media!   June 10th, 2008 2:44 pm ET

straight from Hillaryclinton.com

HILLARY WE ARE WITH YOU ALL THE WAY…
BUT WE WILL NOT VOTE BO…

by Vel at 6/7/2008 12:33:04 PM

[Login or Create Account to Reply]
Hillary……………………………………
We support you FOREVER!!!

BUT we will NEVER support BO!!! He doesn't deserve it! He stole it!!! NEVER means NEVER!!!

Also, we will FOREVER remember what BO, his nasty supporters, MSM, & the UNdemocratic DNC did in this election.

McCain 08!!!

Hillary 2012!!!

by People at 6/7/2008 1:33:08 PM

I love it! McCain has this wrapped up
welcome former hillary supporters! together we will rid the US of abortion and homosexual marriage before our family structure crumbles!

Jordan   June 10th, 2008 2:44 pm ET

McSame falters in the two most important issues facing America's Future. He admits he knows nothing about the economy and when it comes to Middle East policy, he doesn't understand the fundemental difference between Sunni and Shiite.

Enough said!

Anybody but GOP

Bob, Houston   June 10th, 2008 2:44 pm ET

This is the best the Republicans can do? Johnson is heading a committee to gauge party interest and support for Obama's VP options. Johnson is not making policy decisions. There isn't even an administration yet.

Attack the man on policy, not on these "sideshow" topics. If they want to get personal, let's talk about McCain's army of lobbyists running his campaign...or why not ask Cindy McCain why she won't release her returns.

see?   June 10th, 2008 2:43 pm ET

Yep.

That it how he gets his way.

No one is allowed to criticise him.

That and the racist label if you DO.

Enlightened Voter -   June 10th, 2008 2:43 pm ET

mcwar, we are so bloody tired of the repulsive repub spin on things. Let's talk about the keating 5, or charlie black or your stepford wife stealing drugs to support her habit. Seeing her arrested was hilarious, i remember it like it was yesterday. BTW did she ever get off of them or is that why I never hear two words out her dazed mouth?

John   June 10th, 2008 2:42 pm ET

The problem with Johnson is that he is his ties to special interests which Obama keeps saying that he will abolish. How can someone with ties to special interest groups be impartial in picking a VP if he can't be impartial during his 9 to 5 job?

azher   June 10th, 2008 2:42 pm ET

Like Prez Clinton infamously said.. Give Me A Break..

JeromeM   June 10th, 2008 2:41 pm ET

Of course he doesn't vet anyone just ask Wright and Farrakhan. As a matter of fact he welcomes crooks like Rezko. He is the slimiest Washington insider in years. I just hope he legalizes cocaine so that he isn't busted for it. If it taught him something than maybe it should be a part of every child's education. He sems to think so.

McPREZ08   June 10th, 2008 2:41 pm ET

Save the babies, overturn it. Let them fight republicans UNITE. One man and one woman 4ever.

Janine   June 10th, 2008 2:41 pm ET

It would be irresponsible of Obama not to listen to the majority of voters who backed Hiliary Clinton. He was gain their trust and support if he chose her for the VP spot. Anyone else shows a lack of consideration to what the people he supposedly represents have to say! HILARY FOR VP, PLEASE!!! (Their platforms are in almost total agreement anyway. He has the charisma and she has the brains.)

Randy   June 10th, 2008 2:41 pm ET

Would those of you who keep bringing up the Keating 5 please do some research on that. My god, I am only 30 years old and have more information than you. The prosecutor in the Keating 5 scandal has publically stated that he asked Congress to completely clear John Mccaine of any wrong doing in that scandal. If you remember correctly the other indivuals were all democrats. The democratic congress did not want to only censure democrats due to how it would have looked so they included John Mccaine, against the wishes of the prosecutor.

I see Obama wants to inject 50 billion stimulus package....hmmm thats funny he was complaining the last one was too small a percentage of the GDP to have any effect....yet he proposes one not even a third of the size.

He calls suspending the gas tax pandering? Wow then was is this horsecrap.

Obama could very well be a great president someday...he is a great speaker which is very important but you must also have some basic grasp of the issues.

Please people, we have sat by for 8 years while someone tried to "learn" to be President. This is not time for experimenting!

Viva Obama/Clinton 08   June 10th, 2008 2:41 pm ET

A Vote for Barrack Obama is a vote for Hillary Clinton because they support the same cause.
A vote for John McCain is a vote for a George Bush third terms more wars, bad economy and more country will not want to deal with our country. If you were really a true Hillary supporter that want a better America for this generation and the future generation you must vote Democratic this November. Please do yourself a good favor and vote for the Democratic nominee this coming November.
No hard feeling because Hillary has none against Barrack. We must put the Republican out of the white house.
As you can see, we are in a big recession and that will get worse with a John McCain.
I want to tell John McCain that gas tax holiday is not a solution for our energy problem and is not going to be a solution. This gas tax holiday shows that John McCain do not understand the economy. Keating 5 john McCain took money from the Keating five for political favor.

David   June 10th, 2008 2:41 pm ET

I don't see the relevance, this is an extreme stretch by the GOP. In fact the only major newspaper to report on the story was the LA Times. Most papers, including conservative ones, totally ignored this as it seems to have little relevance to anything. He's nothing more than an advisor to pick a vice president, who cares what loans he got once in his life?

Sam   June 10th, 2008 2:41 pm ET

Honey, you haven't even begun to hear all of Obama's trash. Hillary is well-investigated.

MCCAIN 08, HILLARY 12.........WOOOHOO.....BYEBYE OBAMA!!

Adam - TX   June 10th, 2008 2:41 pm ET

Sounds like you have a pile of cover-ups...these things matter...you're only as good as the company you keep. You can decide who to include on your committees. Get over the "non-issue defense". If it wasn't a big deal, you could refute the claims.

THIS IS FROM SANTA   June 10th, 2008 2:41 pm ET

Ho Ho Ho
You think this Countrywide stuff is dirt?
Wait until the real dirt about Obama and his little elves is uncovered and then watch the Obama snow-job.
What fools ye mortals be to believe in me and Obama.
Love,
Santa

MARYANN Oswego IL   June 10th, 2008 2:40 pm ET

I do not want either nominee...Let's bring back Clinton/Gore...Hillary this time and Al Gore...both of them know what it is like to win the popular vote ...BUT then a few selected judges or delegates select who the American people have to pick and live with...Hillary Clinton/ Al Gore or Al Gore/Hillary Clinton. Obama is a liar and cheater,McCain I just do not know?

Hugh, Nova Scotia   June 10th, 2008 2:39 pm ET

I dream of a day when people will judge the worth of a candidate by their words, ideas and actions, not their political party. Unfortunately people today seem to hold to their party's candidate with near blind religious fervor. These are sad days indeed.

Beer Truck   June 10th, 2008 2:39 pm ET

Whoi cares about this MUMBO JUMBO JIBBER JABBER CLAPTRAP! I am more worried about McCain vetoing my COLD BEER!

Obviously McCain is no PATRIOT because vetoing the golden ale is downright unAmerican!

Obama would NEVER veto out beer! Obama has my vote!

Tim   June 10th, 2008 2:39 pm ET

The Republicans are not going to be in power for a long time. They just don't get it. They are so out of touch with America, not to mention the world.

Everyone outside the United States is praying that Obama is the next president. All you need to do is travel abroad to get a true sense of how bad our reputation is tarnished. People like Americans, but they hate our government.

We need to show the world that we aren't as stupid as our government by electing someone with some intelligence and prudence.

My fear is that the majority of Americans are not that intelligent, however, and are only voting along party lines, gender, race, what the press is spinning on that particular day or some other inconsequential line. Not on the issues. If you look at the issues, there is no question who to vote for.

picture this   June 10th, 2008 2:39 pm ET

Bring on the silencing of any and all criticism.

When will we see photos of the great Obama on every public building and in every home.

That is how it is done when the press annoints the supreme leader of a nation.

Come on now.... fall in line.

rw in ct   June 10th, 2008 2:39 pm ET

How many ways can we spell : c o r r u p t
After all they say he is from the School fo Chicago Politics.

Complete article in WSJ....I wish I could get a mortgage/loan at 3+% ... still asking 6% in east coast. even with spotless credit rating.

Hillary supporters, country before party...vote McCain

Republican turned Democrat   June 10th, 2008 2:39 pm ET

All I know throughout all this fighting is this... Mr. Obama is young. Mr. Obama is New to politics, Mr. Obama has an up hill battle dealing with his race, Mr. Obama has a different campaign to run... etc...

Let's not be confused that experience in this election is not what we want. the experience that Mr. McCain has is old school politics experience and i'm pretty tired of old school politics.

I voted for Bush on his first term and unfortunately the 2nd. Sorry everyone but i will not make the same mistake again. As far as i know right now... I will vote for Mr. Obama.

Richard, FL   June 10th, 2008 2:37 pm ET

McCain's economic guru Phil Gramm was possibly the person most responsible for the mortgage crisis. He has constantly fought to reduce government regulation of the industry.

McCain supporters KNOW that Johnson's involvement in the mortage disaster doesn't remotely compare to Gramm's horrendous judgement and support of this disaster. It's just another case of trying to switch blame away from the GUILTY party.

Lorna, NY   June 10th, 2008 2:37 pm ET

McCain is completely insane. This is a man that left his crippled wife for a woman who is 16 years younger and wealthy....He has a nerve to speak about judgement.

Messiah time   June 10th, 2008 2:37 pm ET

Obama has proved that he is NEVER wrong.

He is a gift from God.

I thought he taught you all to shut up and not criticise him.

Look at what happended to Wright.

Too funny... the free press installing a wannabe dictator.

Linton   June 10th, 2008 2:37 pm ET

The power and choice is ours we can all choose to continue with the way things are and continue to suffer or at least try to make some changes. Talk to the soldiers in Iraq and the will tell you the truth, talk with the wounded ones and their families, talk to the people of Iraq about what was and what is now and forget about what the money that is spent each month can be used for and oh don't even mention the contractors.
No one is perfect, most of us have something our closets and oh I wish I can find me a wife who is 18 years younger than I am when I turn 50.

William, from Cali   June 10th, 2008 2:37 pm ET

Will someone in this "Nation"; just solve the problems and do "The will of the people," for a change. All this back and forth; isn't getting "US" anywhere, but closer to "being more divided" and "Bitter," as a Country..............Stop, and let's "Come Together"!

I'm a Democrat for Democrats.   June 10th, 2008 2:37 pm ET

All those who bicker about Obama and say you are a Democrat for McCain will truly be sorry if McCain wins. Next year when he is "vetoing beers" and leading us into a fruitless war with Iran, you will regret your vote.

Obama may not be the Hillary that you supported, but he is light years away from the policies of Bush and McCain, who supported the president 90-95% of the time.

He may not be the perfect candidate, but at least he is free of the serious defects found in many other candidates.

bluesky   June 10th, 2008 2:37 pm ET

Just about every major bank out there is involved in the mortgage crisis. They all showed poor judgment and predatory lending practices in handing millions of dollars to people with shaky credit. But this doesn't mean that every person in America who has ever had a loan through those banks is inherently untrustworthy. Good Lord, O'Bama would have to exclude probably 80 percent of the country from any position with his campaign, if he used that standard. So would McCain.

I think Johnson's personal and professional record should really say more, i.e., does he have the right connections, is he shrewd about picking the right people for the job, etc.

Pete   June 10th, 2008 2:36 pm ET

McCain's VP search team is headed up by....surprise! Another lobbyist.

McCain is owned by lobbyists!

Independent for Obama   June 10th, 2008 2:36 pm ET

Again, moderator, go to merriam-webster.com, do a search, and realize that "discrete" is the word you wanted above, not "discreet." How hard can it be for the journalists who work at CNN to gain some grasp of the English language? I can understand if you were just some of the random almost-illiterate bloggers that post on this site, but you are running a major news organization, for pete's sake!!!

charisma rules   June 10th, 2008 2:36 pm ET

Of course!

Obama is perfect.

He has perfect judgement.

He is the ONE.

Bye bye lady liberty.

The fall for any charismatic leader is here.

JM   June 10th, 2008 2:36 pm ET

You know, we need a PRESIDENTAL CAMPAIGN and NEWS COVERAGE that doesn't critize every little dirty thing about everyone. If they are going to dig dirty then have the common descentcy to tell the whole story good and bad not just the dirty part that makes news.

Jodi   June 10th, 2008 2:35 pm ET

People stop being so gullible. This guy got private loans. He was the consumer in the deal. I do not know a consumer who would not accept a lower rate on a loan. There is no evidence that he in any way bribed this guy to give him a low rate or that the loans were used to do something shady. Here is a story for you. My husband and I just bought a house a few months ago. We got the loan from a guy who we know who owns a mortgage company. We got a 5% rate because the guy know we will pay our bills and we have good credit. No harm in that.

Joe, Northern Virginia   June 10th, 2008 2:35 pm ET

Why is this an issue? Someone should help me out here... I guess today is a slow news day huh CNN? lol Republicans are desperate and are going to make a big deal out of nothing. The economy is in such a bad shape, families are struggling to survive, gas prices are sky rocketing and all the Republicans can talk about is someone's mortgage deal? Please give us a break – for once!!

Ray   June 10th, 2008 2:35 pm ET

I'm not sure what McCain means by "people like that". Is he suggesting that Johnson should be placed in the same group as Charles Keating?

Tommy   June 10th, 2008 2:35 pm ET

To all the Obama bashers: McCain had Carlos Bonilla as an economic advisor (same title he had in the GWB White House) until recently when records revealed he received some nice "perks" from then K street lobbyist (now in prison) Jack Abramoff. The culture of corruption continues!

PKS   June 10th, 2008 2:35 pm ET

McCain leaving his first wife (after her accident) to marry Cindy should be a bigger issue than this!!!!

Vote with your pockets people, and stop this silliness.

Isaac   June 10th, 2008 2:35 pm ET

"DONT PICK HILARY, WE NEED HER IN 2012!!! PICK OPRAH OR CAROLINE, PLEASE PLEASE OBAMA DO NOT PICK OUR NEXT PRESIDENT FOR YOUR VP."

Give us a break, please, and get over it. If she couldn't win the nomination this year, then she certainly won't win it 4 years from now. This was her best chance and she lost.

Steve in DC   June 10th, 2008 2:34 pm ET

My God...people are so desperate to tie Obama to people who they think are controversial. Its not going to happen folks...please try again.

heil hitler   June 10th, 2008 2:34 pm ET

What's new?

That is how he stole the nomination.

He and his brainwashed youth beat back any and all criticism.

And the duped and biased media swooned to help him do it.

We are heading for dictatorship.

That is always the danger when a country is in such a bad way and eager for change as AMERIKA now is.

Kimo   June 10th, 2008 2:34 pm ET

"I will not take any lobbist money in my campaigan". What a load of crap Obama is. He will say anything to get into office and you all fall head over heel s listening to his bull. Wait till he's in office and you will see all his promised to you will just dissappear. Just like hot air.

Ben   June 10th, 2008 2:34 pm ET

Every time they sling mud at Obama, I am struck at how little there is to sling.

Really? This is all they've got? Obama's got this thing locked.

J in Dallas   June 10th, 2008 2:33 pm ET

So Obama should vet his vetters?
What about vetting the vetters that are vetting the vetters?

The guy got some favorable terms on a loan. So, what? That's life. This is only a story if he got the loan then somehow he didn't have to it pay back, defaulted without any consequence, and/or used his influence to aid in furthering the mortgage mess.

If a family/friend were a mortgage broker, wouldn't that person be the first one you'd call to get a good deal on a mortgage?

Ray   June 10th, 2008 2:33 pm ET

I'm not sure what McCain means by "people like that". Is he suggesting thCharles Keating, perhaps?

Michael   June 10th, 2008 2:33 pm ET

One of the biggest laughs for me during the Democratic primary process was the ridiculous claim that Obama would "change" things. The rich fat cats who put up the 20-25 million dollars for him to begin the running process own him. He is backed by some of the richest industralists in our country (the people who actually run our country! Obama is not going to Washington and then kick these same supporters in the teeth. It will be more of the same. Obama's choice for heading his VP committee proves it.

Wouldn't it have been better to choose someone who understands the ins and outs of the system and goes to work hitting the ground running Rather than an inexperienced man who will find his way. Oratory will not help America solve its seeming insurmountable problems. The Democrats have only elected 3 presidents in 56 years. The media, intellectuals, and liberals always drive a candidate to the nomination, who cannot win the general election. I believe that we have done it again.

Renee   June 10th, 2008 2:32 pm ET

To all Democratics and Repubicans and Independents if you are concerned about the ECONOMY Please don't vote Mccain it will be same Bush term just look at the results of the ECONOMY NOW. Mccain will embrace Bush Polices.

bobby   June 10th, 2008 2:32 pm ET

Let me get this straight. Johnson, a supposedly rich guy, got some mortgages from Countrywide who is one of the reasons for the mortgage crisis so that makes him "EVIL" in the eyes of the GOP. The mortgage crisis was caused by subprime loans being given to people who couldn't afford the loans because of GOP support of deregulation of the mortgage loan industry. Giving a "favorable" loan to a rich guy is probably one of Countrywide's better business moves. GOP...this is laughable.

Kathy in Oregon   June 10th, 2008 2:32 pm ET

Obama has been a hypocrite since day one.

His "holier than thou" attitude turned me off during the primary campaign.

So I will not be voting for this self-righteous Clinton-basher in November.

Lisa CA   June 10th, 2008 2:31 pm ET

The facade put on by Obama about the DNC not taking PAC or lobbyist money is laughable. Hey youngsters!!! Open your eyes!!!! They are just donating online through bundlers (new fangle name for lobbyists).

My mama never raised no fool!!! They are all politicians, at least McCain and Clinton were honest about where they were getting thier money!!!

Obama wants to serve up this BS about not taking money from lobbyist, which is exactly what he's doing, but it doesn't have to be disclosed!!!

Bjoerlingfan   June 10th, 2008 2:31 pm ET

To Andy J-

"How can you run on a platform for "change" when you hire washington insiders to find you a VP?"

Are you an idiot? Of course he's going to hire Washington insiders to find him a VP! Why on earth would he hire Washington OUTsiders to find potential VP candidates? What's the good of hiring someone to find strong candidates if they don't know who the heck anyone is?

"If you have such great judgement of character, shouldn't you be able to pick your own VP? "

Sure he could pick his own VP...oh wait...he's too busy CAMPAIGNING. It's standard procedure to put together a commitee who's sole purpose is to put together a list of strong VP candidates. Obama will trim down the list through meetings with the potential candidates and make the ultimate decision himself.

To AJ-

I would LOVE to see the fruits of this "research" you've done to uncover all of the BIG money Obama has taken from corporations and interest groups. I'm sure it's quite the revelation, seeing as how NO MAJOR NEWS ORGANIZATION, NOR THE RNC, HAS MENTIONED IT. You appear to be just another disgruntled Hillary supporter who is willing to destroy the country by voting for McCain out of spite, even though he represents everything your beloved Hillary has been fighting against for her entire political career. Now THAT'S what I call "informed voting".

Floyd Goff   June 10th, 2008 2:31 pm ET

My comment will probably not be posted because I am not making a an out of my way effort to give a twisted slant to every word that he says, to every person he has ever come into contact with. I was H. Clinton supporter, but it was very clear that your reporting was bias in her favor. Thanks for that, but I don't see how you think the public is so stupid that they can't see,read or count. You never see the kind picking on McCain, or H.Cinton for people they have come into contact with during there life time.Your base panel is maed up of two white women and two men, and it stands out every time they open thir mouth. You speak of H.Clintons' 18 million reasons to stay in the race. She says herself Obama out spent her.In spite of this she has a big debt and Obama has money in his campaign. H.Clinton does not have supporters in those numbers, those were Republicans who do not wamt run against Obama, and there money went to Republicans. The second group were in many cases people not very well read, and what they are is what they are, or I could say political news host display every day.

Brian   June 10th, 2008 2:30 pm ET

This is bogus. I had my home loan through Countrywide... does that mean I'm a criminal and shouldn't be given a job?

The Republican party is a huge collection of hypocrites. Who do you think was least touched my the mortgage crisis? Now they want to tag Obama's VP team as somehow having benefitted?

Give me a break.

whatever!!   June 10th, 2008 2:30 pm ET

Ok Democrat for McCain.....At least he didn't say he came under sniper attack while talking about Countrywide Bank. And you can't be a true Democrat if your for McCain. You can only have a true desire for more of the same diasters that this country is dealing with now.

But on the bright side YOU may be related to Kevin Bacon...so maybe you should just pursue an acting career and your first role would be to play a smart american who looks at the real issues at hand!!

maca   June 10th, 2008 2:30 pm ET

Hillary 2012!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

no critism of the great Obama   June 10th, 2008 2:29 pm ET

Isn't that what Obama does best- silence all criticism.

He keeps the race card in his back pocket just for this purpose.

Dare to disagree, you racists.

That will be an ever-so-much-fun presidency.

MY way or the highway.

Oh wait... just like cocky, arrogant, boastful Bush.

aaron from minneapolis   June 10th, 2008 2:29 pm ET

Anyone who says Obama is shady for knowing Mr. Johnson because he has his mortgage with countrywide is absurd!

How many people who support Obama have a mortgage with countrywide? How many Clinton supporters have a mortgage with countrywide? How many McCain supporters have a mortgage with countrywide? A LOT!! they're a major lender.

I also heard that Obama ate at McDonald's and they have bad tomotoes there. No to Obama. (end sarcasm)

Lisa CA   June 10th, 2008 2:29 pm ET

The facade put on by Obama about the DNC not taking PAC or lobbyist money is laughable. Hey youngsters!!! Open your eyes!!!! They are just donating online through bundlers (new fangle name for lobbyists).

My mama never raised no fool!!! They are all politici

Andriea-California   June 10th, 2008 2:27 pm ET

This story is a waste of time. CNN must be really bored and can't find any news worth reporing on. .
Please give me something worth reading. This is a non-issue.

Seah   June 10th, 2008 2:27 pm ET

Obama Says one thing and does another. He points fingers and blames and condemns people his whole campaign.

When it comes to him, He feels he is above the rest and can do as he pleases and it is Ok. Because he has been given a free ride so far.

When Obama does something against what he preaches., and someone points it out, they are no good.

Obama is a 10 year old kid in a man's body.

Will Obama ever grow up and take on some responsibility for himself?

Getting these people to work for him *cough* for nothing. Then getting favors from mortgage companies, is wrong.

I do not see this company giving a whole town in small town America a break, probably dollar for dollar would be a cheaper break for all of them than this one guy.

So yes, For the guy (Obama) who swears he is for the people, wants to keep politics clean, he is being a hypocrite, when it comes to his word and the people.

40 year voting Democrat against Obama

Hitler youth all over again   June 10th, 2008 2:27 pm ET

Don't you dare to criticise the Great Obama.

The Obama youth are in uniform ready to do his bidding.

So bow down or shut up.

Proud American   June 10th, 2008 2:26 pm ET

Please.... Grasping for straws. Lets Go Dems!!!!!

Ellie in Aurora, CO   June 10th, 2008 2:26 pm ET

So someone got a good deal on a mortgage? Who wouldn't take it? It was legal – what's the big deal? A real s-t-r-e-t-c-h McCain. Perhaps you should be more concerned about Phil Gramm's active lobbying for no regulation on banks and mortgage companies. Now that hurt the American people!!

Randy   June 10th, 2008 2:26 pm ET

Can any of the obamabots tell me how he plans to lower the gas prices. He is always talking about it and blaming republicans, and I have searched his campaign website but can't find his solution.

Whiskey   June 10th, 2008 2:26 pm ET

If any of you readers or posters in this blog are swayed by anything an Obama, Clinton, or McCain supporter says is just simply weak minded

wake up   June 10th, 2008 2:26 pm ET

Obama is open to inclusiveness....
as long as you dare not disagree with him. Or criticise him.

He even sacrificed his grandma and Rev Wright for personal gain and control of the image he was creating.

This guy is getting scarier by the minute.

Lead or dictate?

Inspire or force?

Hope or Hype?

LUCYNA   June 10th, 2008 2:25 pm ET

STOP MOANING AND GROANING.

IF YOU WANT MCCAIN, THEN GO AHEAD, VOTE FOR HIM, BUT DON'T COMPLAIN LATER ON THAT WE ARE IN WAR WITH IRAN, POSSIBLY NUCLEAR. DON'T COMPLAIN THAT YOUR BANK ACCOUNT IS EMPTY, YOU LOST YOUR HOME, YOUR JOB AND YOU REALLY DON'T NEED A CAR BECAUSE YOU SIMPLY CAN'T AFFORD TO FILLED UP A GAS TANK.
IN OTHER WORDS.

YOU WANT BUSH 3RD TERM, THEN BE MY GUEST.

Watching around the world   June 10th, 2008 2:25 pm ET

Falls in the catagory of silly season.

Brad   June 10th, 2008 2:24 pm ET

Can you say the pot and the kettle...
McCain being critical on this issue is completely fatuous.
The DNC should seize on this and remind everyone who was front and center during the savings and loan crisis...

folly   June 10th, 2008 2:23 pm ET

And the media helps this demagogue beatin back any criticism.

He is just the nominee, and already he chastises and silences any criticism.

How is this GOOD for America?

Didn't Bush silence everyone who disagreed with him- and paint them as traitors?

So Obama IS the leftist version of BUSH.

You are all silly fools falling for folly feigning as hope and change.

john s   June 10th, 2008 2:23 pm ET

No mention here of the other person Holden who had a connection to the Marc Rich pardon. The actual transcript show Obama stumbled and was not as smooth as he has been touted by his supporters. If he can't handle a simple question without getting defensive, I don't know how he'll handle the really tough questions. If it was McCain the Dems would be all over him about his people and their connections.

Enough already!   June 10th, 2008 2:22 pm ET

Forget Kevin Bacon... all the media wants to do these days is play "Six Degrees of Separation" (and everybody else eats it up).

For goodness sakes, people. What matters more - staff member's buddies or the actual presidential candidate's actual plan for the economy?

And I swear to Loki if one more person yammers about how all he does is talk, without bothering to check up on all the things he is already doing, now, even before he's president.....

Whiskey   June 10th, 2008 2:22 pm ET

Democrats for Mccain = Im taking my toys and going home mentality. Part of the problem...never the solution.

CW4Barak   June 10th, 2008 2:22 pm ET

The Repugnants are grasping at straws!!

Obama '08!

Janie, Raleigh, N.C.   June 10th, 2008 2:22 pm ET

I read the best comment today. I liked it because it described my feelings well. A strong Clinton supporter stated that she could vote for Obama, but not with any enthusiasm. For now, that comment describes a lot of Clinton Democrats. Obama is just lofty in his speeches, but has few details about the changes he champions. I am going to wait and see what he and McCain actually mean by their comments. Some issues that were front and center for me years ago do not mean as much to me now. I am not sure if we want change as much as we need stability.

Down with Obama   June 10th, 2008 2:22 pm ET

The whole Obama bunch are crooks!!!!!!!!!!

Hey Donna, I thought you were going to leave the Party if “THE DELEGATES” choose the nominee over the “WILL OF THE PEOPLE”?????

What happened, are you still a democrat???

Loretta from California   June 10th, 2008 2:22 pm ET

This is an apples and oranges strategy at best. Until the GOP's camp will pledge to discontinue their practice of yielding to special interest it will be the "Pot calling the kettle black".

pauline   June 10th, 2008 2:21 pm ET

I trust Obama's judgement for VP. I am 61 yr old woman.
Obama for president

Ding, Washington, DC   June 10th, 2008 2:21 pm ET

Remember Keating Five!, Senator McCain "Used Poor Judgment" according to that ruling. GOP should keep their mouths shut. Why are they reminding Americans.

Gerald   June 10th, 2008 2:21 pm ET

...........................and the band PLAYED onnnnnnnnnnnn..............

Timothy   June 10th, 2008 2:21 pm ET

Vote Mccain this whole country will go down we are almost there now with Bush policies. Vote Mccain and we all will be very,very very disapoint just like we are now whom ever vote for Bush same thing will happen again. Our childrens future will suffer as well as our. Just watch if you vote Mcain.

RyanD.   June 10th, 2008 2:21 pm ET

OBAMA KNOWS A GUY WHO KNOWS A WOMAN THAT ONCE DATED A RADICAL FROM 1964!

These are the words of scared people.

Obama just cleaned up the DNC to the tune of 100,000+ dollars while McCain lied about more things he said 2 days earlier.

CHANGE vs. McSane.

OBAMA 08!

BIFF, BIFFINGTON...   June 10th, 2008 2:21 pm ET

I wonder where the Wall Street Journal's report on McCain Staffer and former Texas Senator Phil Gramm is.. Lobbying disclosure forms, filed by the giant Swiss bank UBS, list McCain’s campaign co-chair, former Texas Sen. Phil Gramm, as a lobbyist dealing specifically with legislation regarding the mortgage crisis as recently as Dec. 31, 2007.

A McCain staffer is a lobbyest who pushed for de-regulation of the industry WHICH DIRECTLY CONTRIBUTED TO THE CURRENT MORTGAGE CRISIS!

YOU WILL NEVER READ OF THIS CONNECTION IN THE WALL STREET JOURNAL.

BECAUSE, LIKE 'FOX NEWS', IT IS NOW OWNED BY RUPERT-FREAKING-MURDOCH!

Seth   June 10th, 2008 2:20 pm ET

"Democrats For McCain"

HUH?

That doesn't even makes sense. If you are voting for McCain you are a Republican plain and simple. You can't be a Democrat and vote in someone who has all Republican policies. That makes you a Republican.

And if you flip-flop your allegiances so easily because you got your feelings hurt, then good riddance.

freer already   June 10th, 2008 2:20 pm ET

Beating back criticism....Isn't that what he does best?

Wasn't Bush the first to use that strategy.

FEELING FREER already.

mjc   June 10th, 2008 2:20 pm ET

CNN.. why no story or mention of Rep. Dennis Kuchinich's issuing articles of Impeachment against g.w. bush?

Kenneth   June 10th, 2008 2:19 pm ET

why is everything a issue ? when are we going to talk about real bead and butter items

Whiskey   June 10th, 2008 2:18 pm ET

PUMA = The New Hardcore Disgruntled Bitter Feminist Movement.

gary   June 10th, 2008 2:18 pm ET

. YOU THINK HRC SHOULD BE HIS WHITE SLAVE AND UNITE HER VOTERS FOR HIM.B.S. AFTER NOT CONSIDERING HRC FOR VP. OR ANYTHING ELSE. YOU HATERS HAVE BROUGHT THIS RACE TO AN END FOR YOUR CANIDATE O.B. MCCAIN WILL E OUR NEXT PRESIDENT. ATLEAST HE DONT CON PEOPLE AND THINK HE IS GOD. YOU HATERS SURE LIKED IT WHEN HRC ENDORSED O.B. NOW THE SPEECH IS OVER SHE IS DIRT TO YOU HATERS AGAIN. I HOPE SHE TURNS AROUND AND GOES INDEPENDANT. WITHOUT HER ON THE TICKET YOU HATERS LOOSE ALONG WITH YOUR CANIDATE.THIS RACE WAS HANDED TO O.B. NOW HE IS GOING TO EARN IT. WITHOUT HRC ON THE TICKET ,HE'S DONE.

kayla   June 10th, 2008 2:18 pm ET

mcsame should not worry about sen. obama's vp. search. he should worry about his. he became the nominee about two months before obama and yet has not found a vp.

STAND UP now   June 10th, 2008 2:18 pm ET

Post it CNN:

And so it continues.... no criticism of the supreme leader is allowed.
This isn't democracy... it is dictatorship.

This is how all the great charismatic dictators- left or right- do it.
Remember how Hitler inspired a youth eager for change?
Remember how charismatic and how powerful his speeches were?

You control the press and then you silence ALL opposition.

HRC was just the first of our choices to be eliminated.

Our freedom to think and speak and disagree are next...
Actually... already used those tactics to steal the nomination.

Franky   June 10th, 2008 2:18 pm ET

Yeah and I wonder also if my boy is also a part of that mortgage crisis or let alone did he "knew" about it??? Hmmmm, a mystery don't you say. By the way, I thought the Reps don't care about the mortgage crisis??? Yep, just like I don't care about money! LOL!!!!

Shelly in IL   June 10th, 2008 2:18 pm ET

Are you people happy now? There, CNN has posted the story about Jim Johnson (the Lobbyist). Good greif are you nay-sayers happy now?

Carl29   June 10th, 2008 2:17 pm ET

This is why 7 years of the GOP runing the country has left us is this hole. These guys have no plan to get us out of the ditch. All they know is attack and attack anybody who wants to help the american people solve their problems.

Dave   June 10th, 2008 2:17 pm ET

oh but that's not all with Mr. Johnson. If you want the truth about him you will find he is knee deep in the CFR and Bilderberg's. In fact, the Bilderberg's are the king makers that select these VP's. They chose Edwards for Kerry in 2004 because they liked him, and Kerry didn't, but the puppets must obey the marching orders. That was all we needed to know when Obama chose Johnson to head the search. It will be the elites choice. Also note that the Bilderbergs just concluded their meeting in Chantilly, VA over the weekend. Does it make sense that a meeting of 200-300 of the Western world's leaders in the spheres of government, banking and media held a secret meeting and the mainstream media did not cover it at all? If a group of that size of entertainers or sports figures met, they would be all over it.

Another Republican for Obama   June 10th, 2008 2:16 pm ET

John McCain is nothing more than a puppet of the RNC. He sounds confused on the issues from one day to the next. You are almost scared for him when he speaks in front of people because he forgets and misspeaks quite frequently. He said that he would keep this strictly about the issues, but he is going to find out just as Clinton did, that character attacks in this years election will not work. People want to hear about the issues. I consider myself an outstanding member of my community, but I guess if you looked hard enough with 6 degrees of seperation, you could find someone who knows me who said and did some pretty stupid stuff. People are smarter than that. Everyone knows someone who has said and did something stupid. You have to look at the scope of someones entire life.

John McCain has few answers about the future and direction of this country. He is old old old school. There is a new generation of republicans who want things to be different. And I am one of them. George Bush was and has been huge dissapointment.

Go Obama!!!!
REPUBLICANS FOR OBAMA

Guilty One   June 10th, 2008 2:16 pm ET

Let the first person without any blemish cast or throw the first stone.

RyanD.   June 10th, 2008 2:16 pm ET

McCain has 170 lobbyists working for him.

Nuff said.

total supreme ruler knows best   June 10th, 2008 2:15 pm ET

what a surprise- blocked by BIASED CNN again.

The Great Obama already controls the media.

Now he can say or do anything and silence all who dare disagree.

And so it continues.... no criticism of the supreme leader is allowed.
This isn't democracy... it is dictatorship.

This is how all the great charismatic dictators- left or right- do it.

You control the press and then you silence ALL opposition.

HRC was just the first of our choices to be eliminated.

BRAINWASHING works on some... NEVER on all.

Our freedom to think and speak and disagree are next...
Actually... already used those tactics to steal the nomination.

Dave   June 10th, 2008 2:15 pm ET

OBAMA IS A TRUE LIAR, HILLARY HAD HIM PEGGED. A RACIST LIAR!!!

MCCAIN 08

HILLARY SUPPORTER

Scott   June 10th, 2008 2:15 pm ET

Change we can believe in.

"Rules are rules are rules. Except when they apply to people I want on my campaign."

Sebastian   June 10th, 2008 2:14 pm ET

This is a non-issue. We dismiss it.

Bob-a-latte   June 10th, 2008 2:14 pm ET

This is change we can believe in?

Bob   June 10th, 2008 2:14 pm ET

"everybody you know who is anybody who is tangentially related to our campaign"

But this person is NOT only tangentially related to his campaign. This person is LEADING the search for Obama's choice for VP (who could be President someday) and therefore should be held to a higher standard. This is the same way Obama was able to sweep Ayers and Flager under the rug and the McCain people should not be as afraid to push these issues as the Clinton people were.

brice, greenville, south carolina   June 10th, 2008 2:13 pm ET

well put seamus. everyone take note. we can't handle more of the same. it seems like every day we keep getting more and more proof that voting for mcain is a bad idea. understanding why anyone would vote for mcain is beyond my rhelm of possibilities. don't just vote your politic history/check list. vote according to what is happening today.

The Clear Thinking Indepedent   June 10th, 2008 2:13 pm ET

I have a million dollar mortgage with Countrywide in Carlsbad California .... how does that make we unfit ?

CNN, please vett these blog subjects and the content to stay on point and away from the National Enquirer-like distractions.

Thanks,

Cathy   June 10th, 2008 2:13 pm ET

Obama is right. Come on people, if you have to avoid every single person that had any sort of anything there would be no one left.

Give me a break. Johnson's mortgage company is complete irrelevant to Obama searching for VP!!!! We could go into McCain’s camp and surely find a lot of “well-connected" and unsavory people.

LET'S STICK TO THE REAL ISSUES!!!!

total supreme ruler knows best   June 10th, 2008 2:13 pm ET

And so it continues.... no criticism of the supreme leader is allowed.
This isn't democrisy... it is dictatorhip.

This is how all the great charismatic dictators- left or right- do it.

You control the press and then you silence ALL opposition.

HRC was just the first of our choices to be eliminated.

Our freedom to think and speak and disagree are next...
Actually... already used those tactics to steal the nomination.

Steve in California   June 10th, 2008 2:13 pm ET

Can't the McCain campaign read? Obama clearly stated this guy is doing one task (that's what "discrete" means, McCain). Obama didn't say the guy wasn't working for him, he said the guy won't have a position in his administration. Big difference. The guy is just putting together a list of potential VPs. Obama will have the final say as to which candidate makes the cut.

If this is the best McCain can do, this election will be an easy one. Give me a veto beer!

Bob-a-latte   June 10th, 2008 2:12 pm ET

The important reason not to have Mr Johnson lead the effort to screen VP candidates is his record: he picks losers. Why pick a loser to pick a loser.

Michelle   June 10th, 2008 2:12 pm ET

Another lame excuse from Obama.

It's disgusting that the media lets him get away with this nonsense.

andrew   June 10th, 2008 2:12 pm ET

Well, OK we all know that this is a pretty bad try at making Obama seem like a puppet for the loan sharks. However, can we all agree to keep holding the Obama's and McCain's responsible for being too close too "the enemy?" I would hope that soon, being a friend of the CEO of Countrywide Financial should be a big liability for this Jim Johnson character and the hundreds of others like him.

Love,
The Unified, Nonpartisan, Anti-Lobbyist/PAC Front. :)

BIFF, BIFFINGTON...   June 10th, 2008 2:11 pm ET

OBAMA HAS BEEN A ONE MAN FINANCE REFORM JUGGERNAUT.

McCain 'talked" about campaign finance reform.. then left enough holes in it to drive a truck (or a 527 group) through.

Obama has SHOWN by ACTIONS what campaign finance reform is.

THAT is leadership BY "EXAMPLE" !

it is a fact you Obama haters CANNOT change. He has DONE it in his own campaign. Whether or not you choose to acknowledge it... (and we don't even need you to..) HE HAS DONE IT, AND YOU CAN NEVER DETRACT FROM THAT ACCOMPLISHMENT.

a government OF the people BY the people and FOR the people...

DEAL WITH IT !!!

Dem in CA   June 10th, 2008 2:10 pm ET

This kind of six degrees of separation thing is a new form of McCarthyism. Every one of us is connected to someone who is connected to someone else of shady reputation if we dig around enough, because everyone knows a lot of people. Are we to all start vetting each other as we meet so we don't taint our own reputations? It's as silly as combining McCathyism with cooties.

This is such a non-story. It must be a slow news cycle, huh? When they have an actual choice for VP, vet them.

KMAN   June 10th, 2008 2:10 pm ET

If the RNC is questioning Obama's judgment in the selection of Jim Johnson ... then they need to question their own judgment since they are supporting John McCain ... NOW THAT'S QUESTIONABLE JUDGEMENT!! McCain is a now defunct serial adulterer and he has often been a foul-mouthed jerk to his colleagues!! Yes, a fine American indeed!!

ANGIE   June 10th, 2008 2:09 pm ET

grow up mccain remember what you say and try to at least pretend to know what your talking about is this the best you republicans got ha ah your going down out with the republicans in with the democrats

STILL BROKE~   June 10th, 2008 2:09 pm ET

DONT PICK HILARY, WE NEED HER IN 2012!!! PICK OPRAH OR CAROLINE, PLEASE PLEASE OBAMA DO NOT PICK OUR NEXT PRESIDENT FOR YOUR VP.

Kenneth M   June 10th, 2008 2:08 pm ET

IS JOHNSON BEING INVESTIGATED FOR A CRIME? IF NOT I DONT SEE WHAT THE PROBLEM IS.

Michigan for Obama   June 10th, 2008 2:08 pm ET

Keating Five

proud army and navy mom   June 10th, 2008 2:08 pm ET

It is positively laughable that mc-old will call anything that Sen obama does as "bad judgment".

oh, look. he ate a bagel, instead of toast", that's proof postitive of weak leadership". it's utterly ridiculos!

if mccain had any new ideas or solutions, i'd like to hear them, but he doesn't. he's just plain senile

ben   June 10th, 2008 2:07 pm ET

If Obama has a dog, and the dog bites someone,will Obama be held out to be a man who is friendly with mean dogs? will he be denounced
because he says he does not hate the dog now that it has bitten someone?

Loose Rational   June 10th, 2008 2:07 pm ET

Old Man Reaching in this sorry scorched earth attempt to smeer his opponent any way possible. McCain needs to seriously worry about the scrutiny about to befall him. 5-2-7 groups can't save him now.

foosayer   June 10th, 2008 2:07 pm ET

Smacks of poor judgement on the campaign's part. This Johnson guy doesn't fit the mold and seems mired in insider power broker sleaze up to his eyeballs. Good old boy Dem apparently.
Obama's response was generalized and oblique. Thanks for the WSJ's vetting this guy and his propensity for sweetheart deals for himself, potentially at the public's expense. Obama making light of the need to vet his top campaign people seems disingenuous. If this is the cleanest guy available, then perhaps Washington is too far gone for anyone to help. If this is as expert as Obama can be in forming a team, then he needs a lot of help.
Johnson may be good at what he does, but his smell probably will persist.
Please, no more ammunition for the distractionists.

Republican Obama Supporter on day one who hopes for better from his campaign.

Mario   June 10th, 2008 2:07 pm ET

This may be newsworthy: a friend of the second-cousin of Obama's newspaper delivery boy ONCE did not pick-up his dog poop!
That speaks volumes about Obama's stand on the environment!
Try using this too, Sen. McCain

Watching Every Move   June 10th, 2008 2:07 pm ET

Ree-diculous sums it up.

Darrell   June 10th, 2008 2:07 pm ET

McCain is pointing out a huge inconsistency with one of Obama's platforms and that is "REFORM" and CHANGE yet you Obama supporters want to ridicule McCain!

Too funny!

NOBAMA!

skunkrat The Marine   June 10th, 2008 2:07 pm ET

McSame and the BOYS are reaching for straws. He should be concerned about his drug addicted, thieving wife.

Jan from Boca Raton, Fla   June 10th, 2008 2:07 pm ET

Why does Obama always seem to always have shady friends.

Is this who we want as President????

David, Tulsa OK   June 10th, 2008 2:06 pm ET

I know it's unrealistic to expect the mainstream media to be critical of Democrats during this election cycle, and even less likely that the Obama zealots to think critically of their messiah, but given the amount of time between now and NOV there is a chance that Obama will be seen for what he is:

- a far-left old-school-Chicago partisan with little if any relevant experience to be president (look at his bio and search "ACORN")

- who has historically aligned himself with either far-left radicals or shady cronies (Ayers, Wright, Rezco, Johnson)

- and has never taken a stand at odds with his own party or reached across the aisle with meaningful results (see bio again)

And to think he has a good shot at winning - there's a better chance that Obama=Carter than McCain=Bush.

Alice - NYC   June 10th, 2008 2:06 pm ET

I thought Obama was for change?

This reaks of old style Washington politics to me!

Chris   June 10th, 2008 2:06 pm ET

This is just awful. How arrogant is Barack Obama to just go ahead with his so called vetting committee to choose his running mate. Someone should be vetting him. Thank God for radio 770! At least these guys have the courage to tell it like it is. I can't believe this has happened to our country. It is a sad state of affairs to see what has just happened. Before anybody starts pulling the usual "fall back on" race card hold your horses. I just don't think Obama has the experience or accomplishments to help our country. Furthermore I find him and his wife arrogant . The very idea that he would not offer the vice presidency to Hillary Clinton speaks volumes about his stupidity and short sightedness. News flash! He now has to back peddle to try to win over the voters that Hillary already has. These college kids who voted for him have much to learn about political history. We are doomed if Obama takes the White House in spite of the fact that Hillary Clinton was forced to endorse him.

joan   June 10th, 2008 2:05 pm ET

Barack Obama Cant win on just speeches alone.Sooner or later he must say what he is for or not. My guess is that he will get beat because it just not there for him in the end. Mcain is so much smater then .

Mar   June 10th, 2008 2:05 pm ET

Obama has a bad smell following him around. It will continue till he loses by a landslide and then goes back to Chicago where he belongs. This guy is a total clown, but remember... don't say anything bad about Obama because then you are a racist.
I wish he would just go away....

NEVEROBAMA   June 10th, 2008 2:05 pm ET

REALLY THE POWER OF CHANGE?

OBAMA IS GOING DOWN IN NOVEMBER!!!

I CAN'T WAIT!!!

MCCAIN 08

Renee   June 10th, 2008 2:04 pm ET

Obama is full of hot air!

His campaign is change you can believe in. I agree with the Republicans...it is change we can't afford!!

Obama is nothing but an empty suit!

Seamus   June 10th, 2008 2:04 pm ET

Typical Rovian tactics by McCain and the RNC - take your weak spot (McCain admits he knows nothing about the economy and his adviser, Phil Gramm, lobbied for UBS for the enactment of policies that caused the mortgage crisis), and attack your opponent using innuendo and lies (Johnson got "sweetheart deals" yet the RNC never states exactly what those deals were, or what was wrong with them, or how any of this relates to what Obama would do as president). Phil Gramm, Charlie Black, Donald Diamond - the McCain campaign is a rogue's gallery of economic disaster, a pattern that began with his Keating 5 involvement.

Nathan Johnson   June 10th, 2008 2:04 pm ET

Is Mr. Obama going to be criticized and scrutinized for every comment that an old friend or new says, and every business relationship or decision that they make. Give me a break. Why don't we go back and research some of McSame's old croonies. I betcha you will find that a lot of them will have made comments and shady business deals or worse that would make your head spin.

2Set   June 10th, 2008 2:03 pm ET

That is another thing that Obama must present to lawmakers. We need to stop having companies base their employment decisions based on someone's credit. I mean what does one thing have to do with the other. And if that employee can not attain a job based on credit do you think that person's credit is going to get better? It leaves that potential employee and his or her family stuck in a rut! This really needs to be addressed now at this stage in the American economy. People are going to have foreclosures and even bankruptcies on their credit report. As far as Jim Johnson's sake, what he does in his financial matters should be only his business. I used to wrokd for a Bank who also gave out favorable loans to people. It is what banks and mortgage companies have been doing for years now. That is why the economy is suffering.

Obama v McCain   June 10th, 2008 2:01 pm ET

lol Republican for Obama is correct.. i played the 6 or 10 degrees of seperation when i was younger... but he's got me by at least 40 years ...so GROW UP MCcAIN

DEMOCRAT FOR MCCAIN   June 10th, 2008 2:00 pm ET

Obama talks about our hillary "judgment"

but here is an example of Obama where he tears CountryWide

Yet, the head of his vetting committee has major deals with

CountryWide...

Democrats for Mccain

roger   June 10th, 2008 2:00 pm ET

Who cares, leave it upto the GOP to question someones judgement....just look at the mess our nation is in & what the world thinks of us then worry about Johnson....McBush & his cronies are looking for something to whine about......

skylark   June 10th, 2008 2:00 pm ET

Yawwwnnn..............zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz
Wake me when you have some real news.
Thanx

McCain supporter   June 10th, 2008 2:00 pm ET

Soooooooooo irrelevant!!! Looking for the needle in the haystack!!!
Didn't your mom teach you to shut up if you have nothing to say Tucker? You are sinking the RNC

Perrell, Lincolnton, NC   June 10th, 2008 2:00 pm ET

If you realize the McCain camp does not have any ammunition to hit Obama with so they will try to make every little thing an issue to get people thinking that he is inexperienced for the job. If that was the case over 18 million people would not have voted for him. Come on now lets get real and stop talking out the side of your neck McCain...

AJ   June 10th, 2008 1:59 pm ET

Oh give me a break. Anyone who is interested can do a tiny buit of research and see that Obama is getting BIG money from corporate interests, for him to try and portryay himself as the big campaign finance reformer is a huge joke.
I'm a supporter of Senator Clinton who will not support this arrogant empty suit in the fall. Obama is a disaster waiting to happen.

Kona   June 10th, 2008 1:58 pm ET

"It’s that brand of weak leadership and hypocrisy that shows why Barack Obama has no record of taking "

It's this type of going overboard that makes me laugh at the RNC. This will be in all of their talking points for the rest of the week.

Andy J, NY   June 10th, 2008 1:58 pm ET

Obama is a fraud. This guy has so many questionable people who is has been close to, and he always dismisses criticism by saying "thats not the (insert name) i knew..." or "that is irrelevant..." whatever whatever.

How can you run on a platform for "change" when you hire washington insiders to find you a VP?

If you have such great judgement of character, shouldn't you be able to pick your own VP?

Obviously Obama doesn't have good character judgement, just look at his paster of 20 YEARS. That guy was a vehement racist, anti-white, anti-semitic, black liberation extremist. Only after Obama saw sermons on the internet was it brought to his attention that Rev. Wright is a fricken extremist lunatic? I find that VERY hard to believe.

Say Yes to America, No to Obama and NO TO SOCIALISM.

Chi-town gurl   June 10th, 2008 1:57 pm ET

I believe that Mr. McCain also has someone that he works closely with in his campaign, Mr. Black, who also has a questionable past, yet he has refused to let him go. Does this also speak to his judgement as well???

Republican for Obama   June 10th, 2008 1:56 pm ET

Okay McCain if his stand on the DNC not taking Lobbyist or PAC money is not a stand for leadership and is not any big deal then why is it that you, the supposed cavalier of finance reform, hasn't done the same with the RNC.

I fear this is the hallmark of McCain's campaign this fall. He has no stand that is popular on the issues so he will continue to do what he has said shouldn't be done, pick apart sound bites and exploit relationships with 6 degrees of separation.

Karen in Fla   June 10th, 2008 1:53 pm ET

Here we go!!!!

A long time Washington Political Insider as the head of his search committee. Boy – that is a strong message of change, isn't it??? And this guy HAD to have been involved with the mortgage crisis given his background....

So whose background WILL he check out???

If they aren't working for Obama, who ARE they working for????

And the pidgeons are starting to roost. Too bad I think most of you are so blinded by the idea of change (Bush promised and brought us change – how did you like that???) that you won't see your mistake even when it hits you in the face.

Reality Check   June 10th, 2008 1:53 pm ET

Here we go with the hypicritical Republicna back talk. Thanks to Tucker bounds for opening up a pandoras box on Mccains entire camp. Obama was going to play nice but now they left the door open to criticize MCcain and his "sweatheart loans" he recieved in arizona. Alos, I am pretty sure his team has some of the most crooked people in it. You know the republicans are the party of crooks right? Oh, and the judgement thing, stop bitting Clintons attacks and come up with your own. seems like MCcains campaign has nothing original of theirs. They stole Obamas back drop and slogan, now they are stealing corny attacks from the clinton camp. Be original. The republicans are grasping at straws now.

Rus in St. Paul, MN   June 10th, 2008 1:53 pm ET

If Obama hired people to vet the people vetting the VP pick, would he then have to hire people to vet those as well?

You can make an issue out of anyone in politics if you want to. It's not like this guy is going to pull a Dick Cheney and recommend himself after all is said and done in the vetting process.

Boye   June 10th, 2008 1:53 pm ET

Another pathetic attempt by the RNC. A man cannot get a mortgage anymore without being criticized. Oh snap, I got a favorable car insurance from Ameriprise, I am being courted by a special interest organization.

Joe Bloggs, Haiku, HI   June 10th, 2008 1:53 pm ET

Pulleeeze! If this is the best that John Keating 5 McSame can come up with, he is in deep trouble! What a pathetic loser! I am so excited now that Obama can focus on McSame. No more free rides for this blundering hypocritical old fossil!

Bjoerlingfan   June 10th, 2008 1:52 pm ET

I love how McCain and the RNC are jumping on every opportunity to tear Obama down, no matter how insignificant the issue may be. It just proves two things: (1) that they're scared stiff that Obama is going to wipe the floor with them in the fall, and (2) that they don't have any truly damaging things that they can dig up about Obama.

Johnson isn't his best friend. This is not a person who's going to play any role in the future administration or have any influence on policy. This is a person who knows a great deal about a great many people due to his long time spent in Washington–a person to whom Obama has turned to be a part of a commitee that will provide several strong VP candidates for Obama to choose from. If anything, it shows that Obama has extremely good judgement in enlisting the help of highly knowledgeable people.

McCain and the RNC could not possibly be more petty...though I'm sure they'll prove me wrong in that respect as the campaign goes forward.

Lisa CA   June 10th, 2008 1:51 pm ET

We all know Obama has judgement problems!!!! Radical-Racist Church and Pastor for 20 Years!!! Racist veiws in the "Audacity of Hope", Racist views out of his mouth regarding white americans and there antipathy to people not like them!!!! Come one of course he should have better judgement, but her doesn't.

I will never vote for this man.

David in Illinois   June 10th, 2008 1:51 pm ET

More petty politics. More status quo "tear 'em down" politics from GOPers and a few bitter Hillary supporters.
People can question Obama's judgment all they want, but don't forget the BIGGEST test of judgment - support for Iraq war. Obama GOT IT RIGHT. McCain didn't. Hillary Clinton didn't. The Republicans and the HANDFUL of spiteful Hillary-supporters can NEVER change that debate. (The vast majority of Hillary's supporters are thoughtful, patriotic, futuristic voters who've already gotten past the pettiness of primary politics and have chosen to HONOR Hillary's wishes regarding Sen. Obama, the presumptive nominee) The rest of this discussion is all about personalities, and it really doesn't matter. We're all imperfect. We all have some baggage.

Gillis   June 10th, 2008 1:50 pm ET

Hello! Don't vote for this guy. His VP search chairman has a loan in a capitalist society. How dare he?

jimmy velman   June 10th, 2008 1:50 pm ET

CLINTON SUPPORTERS ARE NOT GOING TO "BEG OBAMA TO PUT CLINTON ON THE VP SPOT WITH HIM.HILLARY HAS SEVERAL STATES IN HER CORNER, THE TWO BIGGEST NEW YORK AND CALIFORNIA. THE JEWISH VOTE OF NEW YORK ...JOE LIEBERMAN, MAYOR BLOOMBERG LEADING THE PACK WILL GO TO MCCAIN.
CLIFORNIA WITH ITS HUGE LATINO VOTE WILL GO TO MCCAIN ALSO.

Letha, SD   June 10th, 2008 1:49 pm ET

Obama is already flip flopping on the issues and offering up money for votes. His VP search member has fingers in the mortgage melt down and Obamanation groupies are plain idiots. Do you never read the news or listen to what is REALLY happening?

Bukky   June 10th, 2008 1:49 pm ET

So this guy got a loan when EVERYONE and there mother got loans... McCains campaign is run by people that lobby for Iran, Myanmar, and Haliburton...

Hmmm McCain should really be carefull how they attack Obama, before they get a case of foot in mouth desease

Operation Chaos   June 10th, 2008 1:49 pm ET

On 1...2...3....4...5....Operation Chaos paid staffers: Jan FL, Brian TN, Jim PA, Staunch Clinton Supporter, Charlotte and my favor Belle. And the caption of the team is Brian TN. NOT THIS TIME!!!

darren   June 10th, 2008 1:49 pm ET

lol John McCain and the Republicans are LOSERS!!!!!, these people cannot be serious...

Penelope   June 10th, 2008 1:48 pm ET

How about Holder? He's the attorney who gave Bill the go-ahead on the Rich pardon. Gotta love these "new" politics.

brice, greenville, south carolina   June 10th, 2008 1:48 pm ET

the republicans can't talk. with mccain's top economic advisor, who literally wrote mccains economic plan, being named as the single most repsonsible person for the sub prime mess. the audacity for mccain to say this about obama is insane to me. does mccain actually think that this won't come back to bit him. is he really that ignorant. he must be too busy thinking about beer.

CLYDE   June 10th, 2008 1:47 pm ET

I am so glad that Barack doesn't play into this National Enquirer mentalities that many people have adopted in this " Reality show" Paris Hilton culture media driven world we are living in.

This is NOT American Idol or its a simple life this is serious business so lets see the GOP act like it.........For ONCE!

gm   June 10th, 2008 1:47 pm ET

This should serve as a preview for the ridiculousness that Republicans are going to smatter us with this election season. I just hope to God that the press has the intelligence to join us in laughing these stories right out of relevance. The logic is flawed, but we're going to see it repeated often:

X has a relationship with Y, a person with negative traits

X supports Obama

Therefore Y's negative traits are attributable to Obama.

They're grabbing at straws; anyone with eyes and a brain can see it. CNN, please expose these sorts of claims for what they are, and stop making them relevant.

Jason   June 10th, 2008 1:47 pm ET

With Obama it is always,

"Games", "Distractions" and a host of other excuses.........

When it is his Hillary or McCain it is always "legitimate concerns".

What a hypocrite !

Louise - MN   June 10th, 2008 1:47 pm ET

Hold up! Obama taps "longtime Washington insiders" to be on his VP search comittee while spending months railing against "longtime Washington insiders?"
Don't get me wrong, I think that Johnson is a great choice for the position, but does this mean that Obama is actually going to surround himself with people who know what they are doing in Washington? That's not "change" but that sure is smart.

jimmy velman   June 10th, 2008 1:47 pm ET

OBAMA VP"SEARCH TEAM" IS A FARCE. HE HAS DECIDED QUITE SOMETIME AGO TO DENY HILLARY CLINTON THE VP SPOT. AND THE "SO-CALLED SEARCH TEAM IS JUST A COVER.

RealDeal   June 10th, 2008 1:46 pm ET

Please. Bush lied about the reasons for getting into a war, killed the leader of the country and got thousands of American soldiers and Iraqis killed. Anything the Repubs try to smear Johnson with doesn't even register on the meter.

A Vote for McCain is a vote for Prosperity   June 10th, 2008 1:46 pm ET

Who cares?

Obam was appointed by the DNC and the DNC will appoint a VP.

After seeing the results and the delegations from the state of Washington where Obam got 25 delegates on less than 30,000 votes and he got more delegates in TX and NV when Hillary won the popular vote are prime indicators that the nomination was fixed.

So go on and try to seize the headlines on a phony VP search. Give me a break.

Jason   June 10th, 2008 1:46 pm ET

This is what will continue to come out about this "unknown" Senator from the southside of Chicago. The Democrats and Obamabots are in for a rude awakening!!!

aware   June 10th, 2008 1:46 pm ET

Forget it Obama!

You are not trustworthy, and your judgment and courage are pathetic.

You are just good at old style politics, Photo Ops/PR, obfuscation, reading teleprompters and throwing people under the bus when they are no longer useful to him.

Obama=Bush – just the opposite extreme! :(

Don't waste your vote disillusioned Democrats! Vote for the American hero. John McCain 08! :)

Rich   June 10th, 2008 1:45 pm ET

Oh please. The Repubs believe EVERYTHING Obama does "raises serious questions about Obama’s judgment." The day Tucker Bounds makes an intelligent argument is the day McCain vetoes beer.

Kristi, MD   June 10th, 2008 1:44 pm ET

OMG Senator, I hope you dont drive a Volkswagon – they might accuse you of being too friendly with the Germans!!

P, CA   June 10th, 2008 1:44 pm ET

It's called a payroll, McHolmes. I love it how, when they shook YOUR tree, a bunch of bugs came scurrying out, and you were PAYING them.

You give Obama's a shake, and one comes out who's working as a volunteer.

Try harder. This isn't making it and it's a non-story.

He'sSoFine   June 10th, 2008 1:44 pm ET

Exactly right !! Just like all the other collegues he knows. Glad no one judges me on some of my collegues (and you know who you are).

Sending you a 'pound' Barack and keep the pace – we are enjoying the ride immensely.

Brett   June 10th, 2008 1:44 pm ET

Ahhhh, the politics of "hope" and "change" :)

Richard, FL   June 10th, 2008 1:43 pm ET

Barack Obama today used the words "Infinitesimal" and "tangentially". Bush and the 28%ers must be looking for "translators" today. They still haven't found "nucular" in the dictionary. It's great to think that we might get a president who is highly intelligent and actually can pronounce words correctly. That is a major CHANGE after 7years of Bush's ignorance.

Jose'   June 10th, 2008 1:43 pm ET

Lying Hypocrite!

A Democrat No More   June 10th, 2008 1:43 pm ET

Double speak.

vINCe   June 10th, 2008 1:41 pm ET

This is SOOOO NOT an issue!! Geez....Repubs are desperate if they are complaining about this.

Mike Lorain, OH   June 10th, 2008 1:41 pm ET

GOP=grasping at straws and making a mountain out of a molehill. This is one of the more absurd charges, but I'm sure more will come...

SDunn   June 10th, 2008 1:40 pm ET

Um shouldn't McCain's groupies focus on his own staff filled with registered lobbyists before making any stupid judgements? Just a thought.

M.K. Ozman   June 10th, 2008 1:40 pm ET

If this is all the dirt that they can dig up about Obama and his team then the Republicans are really doomed.

Former republican   June 10th, 2008 1:40 pm ET

"raises serious questions about Obama’s judgment."?????

i hate stupid language like this. it is so tired and old and represents old politics. fitting that the RNC would use old politics to defend mccain.

DB   June 10th, 2008 1:39 pm ET

They are stretching it a bit.

Obama has repeatedly spoken ill of how business is done is Washington. Is the McCain Campaign going to attack for wanting to run Washington even though he is pointing out things that are going severly wrong in Washington?!?

I thought there was supposed to be a debate about the issues, not a winefest.

Hoang, UC Berkeley   June 10th, 2008 1:39 pm ET

THIS IS A RESPONSE TO B. Churchill AND The Truth Hurts

So, what you guys saying is that Democrat voters should close their eyes and follow whatever, whoever the Democratic Party chooses? !!!!????

Talking about the issues, what if I DON'T LIKE OBAMA'S IDEAS AND PLANS? What if I THINK HIS PLANS ARE WEAK AND LOUDSY AND IN THE END WILL NOT FIX ANYTHING? (His plans do not go all the way, such as UNIVERSAL HEALTH CARE and WITHDRAWING ALL TROOPS FROM IRAQ AND INVADING AGAIN LATER). What if I THINK HE'S AN UNDECIDED GUY AND WILL NOT DO A GOOD JOB IN THE WHITE HOUSE? And personally what if I SIMPLY DON'T TRUST THE GUY.

You guys have been talking that his plans are similar to Hillary, SO WHY DIDN'T YOU VOTE FOR HILLARY? WHY DID YOU VOTE FOR OBAMA? Doesn't the small different make a whole 'nother level? Isn't that TRUST an important part? I simply don't trust that he can do the job.

So now, if I have all of these issues with him, but because of the Party, I have to get in line and vote for him? vote for a person I have issues with and don't trust?

I now have 2 options: either sit at home like many many other Americans, or go to the poll and write in Hillary. I can't vote fot the person I don't trust.

Can I just simply have my right to vote for the PRESIDENTIAL CANDIDATE that shares my views and opinions, the one that I trust?

I don't like either McCain or Obama, instead of sitting home and not caring about politics like many many Americans, can I just simply go to the poll and write Hillary in to put my voice into the country's most important election? I know it is a tiny one, but if many many do the same thing, it's gonna be big. Everything has to start with one, more often unusual.

58 old white ladies for OBAMA   June 10th, 2008 1:39 pm ET

MCMOULD IS BUSY WITH THAT "VETO OF EVERY

SINGLE BEER", SO WE HAVE TIME.

Yes we can!   June 10th, 2008 1:37 pm ET

Dont you just love Obama...I mean everytime that have come at him with nonsense, he just shows great poise and calm with great responses:
"I am not vetting my VP search committees for their mortgages," Obama said during a press conference in St. Louis, Missouri. "I mean this is a game that can be played — everybody you know who is anybody who is tangentially related to our campaign I think is going to have a whole host of relationships."
********************************************

martin   June 10th, 2008 1:36 pm ET

he's not being paid to be on the commitee.tucker is lame,and a liar,and a ridiculous republican.

Josh, CA   June 10th, 2008 1:36 pm ET

Non-issue. GOP should get a life and worry about gas price that is cruising to $5.

Comments have been closed for this article

subscribe RSS Icon
About The Ticker

The latest political news from CNN's Best Political Team, with campaign coverage, 24-7. Sign up for our twice daily Ticker emails. Got a news tip or feedback? For complete political coverage, bookmark CNNPolitics.com.

CNN=Politics Screensaver

CNN=Politics ScreensaverTap into the power of The Situation Room. Download this powerful new tool that keeps you posted on the latest political news from the campaign trail.
Download (4.1 MB, PC only)

twitter
hambypCNN: @DanDoranBlum nice. hopefully you get two big wins over Pitt in one week.
Updated: Tue, 08 Dec 2009 14:42:32 -0800
hambypCNN: @AP_Ken_Thomas excellent duane spencer reference. let's try to work in lee scruggs, too, before the season ends.
Updated: Tue, 08 Dec 2009 14:14:50 -0800
@wolfblitzercnn: Shocking - what's happening in Baghdad. Five terror attacks. More than 100 killed and 400 injured amid fears the violence will increase.
Updated: Tue, 08 Dec 2009 14:08:29 -0800
hambypCNN: Kaine vs. Steele on Situation Room today in 6P hour.
Updated: Tue, 08 Dec 2009 13:55:02 -0800
@edhenrycnn: My colleague Dan Lothian and I show what's it's like on the road with the President - http://bit.ly/7XSU53 #cnn
Updated: Tue, 08 Dec 2009 13:09:21 -0800
Categories
Powered by WordPress.com VIP