June 12, 2008
Posted: 04:55 PM ET

From
Obama has the edge on the economy, a new poll says.
Obama has the edge on the economy, a new poll says.

(CNN) – More Americans believe Sen. Barack Obama is better suited to handle the No. 1 issue on voters' minds — the country's economic woes – than his likely rival in the fall election, Sen. John McCain.

In what could be a warning sign for the Republican presumptive presidential nominee, a new poll released by CNN and the Opinion Research Corporation found that 50 percent of registered voters nationwide say the Illinois senator would best handle the economy, while only 44 percent said the same for McCain.

View full poll results [PDF]

The news could be particularly troublesome for McCain given voters nationwide have consistently ranked the economy as the most important issue currently facing the country. In a CNN/Opinion Research Corporation poll released last week, 42 percent of registered voters named the ailing economy as their most pressing concern, almost twice the amount that named Iraq — the second most important issue. In the same poll, nearly 80 percent of Americans said the country's economic conditions were in poor shape.

WATCH how the candidates are talking about the economy

CNN Polling Director Keating Holland notes that Obama's edge over McCain on the economy is even higher among voters most concerned with the issue.

"Voters who say the economy is the country's number-one problem say that Obama would do a better job than McCain on the economy by a 57 percent to 39 percent margin," Holland said.

The new poll doesn't offer McCain all bad news however. A majority of voters say the Arizona Republican is better suited than Obama to handle foreign policy issues. McCain repeatedly touts his foreign policy credentials on the campaign trail and 54 percent of voters aid he is best suited to handle such matters. Forty-three percent gave the nod to Obama when it came to foreign policy.

But overall, voters said Obama tends to agree with them more so than McCain on the issues that matter most — 56 percent said Obama is in agreement with them on the most vital issues compared to 50 percent who said the same for McCain.

Meanwhile, both candidates score high marks when it comes to leadership qualities — 66 percent said McCain has the necessary leadership qualities needed to be president while 63 percent said the same for Obama.

In what appears to be a draw for both candidates, the poll also shows voters are evenly split on whether leadership skills or the candidates' stances on the issues is most important in deciding their vote. (47 percent say leadership qualities is most important while 46 percent say their stance on the issues is.)

Holland notes Obama has the clear edge among voters most concerned with issues while McCain does nearly as well with those most looking for leadership qualities.

"Voters who say that issues are more important than the candidates' personal qualities are going for Obama by a 58 percent to 37 percent margin," he said. "But McCain has a 53 percent -41 percent edge among voters who sya that personal qualities are more important than the candidates' stands on the issues."

The poll comes as both candidates have increasingly made efforts to appeal to voters most threatened by the economic woes. Obama kicked off a two-week campaign tour Monday that focuses on the economy and takes him through several battleground states that will be up for grabs in November. He's specifically targeting white working class voters, a demographic that repeatedly supported Hillary Clinton in the primaries.

John McCain is also aggressively targeting those voters this week, and is attempting to paint Obama as a typical Democrat who wants to raise taxes and regulate government.

"On tax policy, health-care reform, trade, government spending and a long list of other issues, we offer very different choices to the American people," he said earlier this week.

Filed under: Barack Obama • John McCain • Popular Posts


Dying in Illinois   June 12th, 2008 1:18 pm ET

How much money is Bush making on all of his stock in oil???

young, gifted and black   June 12th, 2008 1:17 pm ET

Please report on the following statements by McCain just 3 years ago:

RUSSERT: The fact is you are different than George Bush.
SEN. McCAIN: No. No. I-the fact is that I'm different but the fact is that I have agreed with President Bush far more than I have disagreed. And on the transcendent issues, the most important issues of our day, I've been totally in agreement and support of President Bush.

Check the huffingtonpost for more on this interview.

McCain=Bush's 3rd term

DEMOCRATS UNITED FOR OBAMA 08

John B. From New Hampshire   June 12th, 2008 1:16 pm ET

he prolly doesn't wanna use his full name for people exactly like you, Carla. Those of this country who take more stock in a person's NAME than the person themselves. HMMMMMMMM

Joe   June 12th, 2008 1:16 pm ET

Holland says in the article that, "Voters who say that issues are more important than the candidates' personal qualities are going for Obama by a 58 percent to 37 percent margin,"

However in the pdf of the poll posted, it shows Obama at 50% and McCain at 44%. With the margin of error at 3% it still does not match what Holland is saying.

Furthermore, the article implies that there is a significant edge by Obama on economic issues. But with the margin of error taken into account, it is not a large difference.

dave   June 12th, 2008 1:16 pm ET

McCain being the candidate of the republican party shows you how the republican party is weak and destroyed. America can you really get behind this guy? His public speaking skills are eqivalent to a 7th grader.

EDW   June 12th, 2008 1:15 pm ET

The best boost our economy will have will be the day after Bush is out of office, after that it's all gravy baby.
Honestly though, I don't want McCain making economic decision when he wants tax breaks for Big Oil.

Denver   June 12th, 2008 1:15 pm ET

Larry of Boston: Look where all that "experience" has gotten us…

Anonymous   June 12th, 2008 1:15 pm ET

The repubicans killed the american workers and famlies,outsourcing jobs,turning down unemployment benifits extentions is the last straw.There will never be a repubican in the whitehouse again.

Luis   June 12th, 2008 1:15 pm ET

The only people polled who think Obama can do a better job economically than McCain or tax and spend Liberals and those who are caught up in the rhetoric of this CNN, Left Wing Media creation.

You fools are in for a big surprise if the false messiah gets elected…….

Already forgotted how your great party has manipulated the primary process, disenfranchised voters and flat out stole the nomination from Billary. You are all lemmings folowing Obama off the cliff.

Have a nice fall….

MIKE H.   June 12th, 2008 1:14 pm ET

John McCain is nothing more than a communist!!! WORSE THAN DA BUSH!!!

unignorant like mccain supporters   June 12th, 2008 1:14 pm ET

lol obama's age is not a factor. consider JFK and RFK's age when they ran for president, compare that to obama's age. Looks familiar?
oh wait, i think those two were too young eh? thats why people loved them and thought they're great. hope obama doesnt end in the same faith.

Obama08/12/16/20… kidding about anything past 12

Alanna   June 12th, 2008 1:14 pm ET

rexx June 12th, 2008 1:05 pm ET

Obama is from the dirtiest political school available, the Chicago political machine. Just wait till Americans hear how he "won" his race for state senate lol. Welcome to honest and honorable President McCain.

—————
Have you heard of the Keating 5?

Go look it up. Its interesting. Wonder how much McCain must have paid someone off to get him cleared of charges.

It's the Economy stupid   June 12th, 2008 1:14 pm ET

Here are your choices

Vote Republican and have the Iraqis and Halliburton enjoy the fruits your hard labor.
OR

Vote Democrat and have your money spent on America by Americans!

Vote Dem!

David Goldman for OBAMA   June 12th, 2008 1:14 pm ET

FORE THOSE OF YOU WHO PLAYED OR EVEN READ

THE COMEDY OF ERRORS BY SHAKESPEARE.

I OFFER A BIT OF HUMOR.

IMAGINE MCWORTHLESS AT A G8 CONFERENCE ,

GOING DOWN THE ISLE WITH HIS PILL POPPER &

JOE LEBERFOOL,HAND IN HAND & CAN'T

QUITE NEGOTIATE THE ISLE. THEN IN HIS SPEACH,

HE VETOES COWS WORLD WIDE.

THEN THE EXIT, DOES HE GO RIGHT OR LEFT,

THAT IS THE QUESTION.

JDC // Ohio   June 12th, 2008 1:14 pm ET

Yes, Obama and MORE TAXES! That should solve everything.

Gary Chandler in Canada   June 12th, 2008 1:13 pm ET

When ONE becomes TWO. The Red Team will MOVE the issue, with policies and actions, towards the THREATS of war and terrorism.

John Foff III   June 12th, 2008 1:13 pm ET

To add to my last comment made at 1:11 PM, I do not think McCain has the answer either. He has some better ideas, but I question whether or not he will actually instill them when push comes to shove.

rj   June 12th, 2008 1:13 pm ET

oh… so now these wacked out polls say Hussein can do a better job with the economy. surrrre. he'll tax us to death and get advice from his gaggle of cronies (eg, Wright, Fledger, Oprah, Rezko, Gov of IL, Michelle, Sharpton, JJackson, et al, ad nauseum) on how to spend it all. u know where the $$ will go… right down the welfare and entitlement rat hole.

wake up, America. this guy is poison.

rm   June 12th, 2008 1:13 pm ET

We need some different ideas at this point.

Emptying the Treasury didn't work and its a kind of dumb idea. McCain wants more tax breaks, but it won't solve:
the export of our jobs
loss of homes
high energy costs and no alternatives
bankruptcy of the airline industry

I look to Obama to have some thoughts and ideas about some of these things, and to include conservatives, independents, and liberals in the process. I find that hopeful and not a bit scary.

Renold   June 12th, 2008 1:13 pm ET

Obama says all the right things, thinks he can fix all the problems. blah blah blah….mccain is a straight shooter, doesn't talk like a preacher.

Ted van Tol   June 12th, 2008 1:13 pm ET

To Carla!

I say it for him: Barack Hussein Obama!

Nothing to be a shamed of! If you reject a person
on his name than you have to learn a lot in life!

I am not a American but I will be so proud
and hopefull when Barack Hussein Obama will be
you next President. He will be a great leader not only
for the Americans but he will be respected over the
whole world.

He wil end the war in Iraq, he will bring peace and rest
in the Midle East. The Palestinians will finely have there
one country and go to work again. Jerusalem wil be a
world religion city where everyone is welcome.

America count your blessings with Obama.

Europe for Barack Hussein Obama!!

With love from the Netherlands

Susan, Nebraska   June 12th, 2008 1:13 pm ET

The media has chosen Obama, why bother with an election.

Tommy Hussein in St. Louis   June 12th, 2008 1:13 pm ET

Brian Knoxville, TN June 12th, 2008 12:52 pm ET

One of the 18.
Puma Democrat
blog.pumapac.org

—————————————————————————————–

Brian in Knoxville, TN, I went to the PUMA PAC website, and those people are PSYCHO. Sorry, there's just no other way to say it. They are not anywhere near the political mainstream.
- They think they speak for 18 million people, when it's probably closer to just 18, period - and most of them are probably Republicans.
- They actually think Obama will lose in a "50-state landslide". Is that major brain fart even worth arguing against? Do they live on the same planet as the rest of us? Even if we allow them to totally ignore the swing states (which is being quite charitable to their point of view), could they really explain to us with a straight face how Obama will lose EACH AND EVERY blue state? Please explain this specifically; just saying it's going to happen isn't good enough.
- They think Obama stole the nomination, but they never provide evidence of that, because THERE IS NONE. Obama got 18 million plus votes, too, you know, more votes than Hillary, but you like to talk as if he got 0. If you want to be ignorant and not count the caucus states and the fact that there do exist people in Michigan who support Obama, and finally that the whole Florida and Michigan thing did not even make the difference in determining whether Hillary won or lost, then it's your head in the sand, not mine.
- They practically writhe in pain at the thought of Hillary agreeing to be Obama's running mate - apparently they are in denial about the fact that she has already said she would if Obama asked her.
- They complain endlessly about how bitter Obama supporters are, but they don't take a look in the mirror (and at their own website, where they don't even allow anybody to disagree with them). Why should Obama supporters be bitter? It's these psychos' candidate who lost. Obama won and his supporters have every reason to be optimistic that he can win in the fall.

I try to be nice to people, but please…get over yourselves. You won't win anybody over by acting like this. The so-called PUMA PAC behaves and puts out propaganda like a little third-world dictatorship. I know they have no influence, so it just amounts to a bunch of bluster and trash talk, but it is out of place in this great country of ours. Most rational, fair-minded, and intelligent people know blind, knee-jerk hatred when they see it, and are not swayed by it.

Bayou Joe   June 12th, 2008 1:13 pm ET

Socialism and Marxism only guarantees that all will suffer equally. The philosophy is appealing but dangerous. Social equality is theoretically good, but in practice denies the individual the right to be independent and self reliant. Americans reject this way of life because we are independent and self reliant. We also value our right to practice our religion of choice and to own and bear guns.

That is why Obama will never win the hearts and minds of the majority of Americans. The diehard left wing democrats, outright communists and deadbeats will support him, but decent Americans that earn a living by working and volunarily send their children to fight in wars will not support him and his ideas.

The media is doing us a disservice by not revealing the true Obama.

shadman   June 12th, 2008 1:12 pm ET

O larry of Boston,
What did Bush knew of foreign policy but we voted for him…..Even after we knew he knew nothing and lied to us…we again voted for him…he still doesn't know anything…..

We can only listen and guess who will be better…
An old man who is a warmonger and doesnt know anything or the other one who will try to get us out of the war that shouldn't have been and doesnt know anything…

I think the later,,

Dan   June 12th, 2008 1:12 pm ET

buh bye old man. McCain is going to lose big time come November. Thank God for that.

Anonymous   June 12th, 2008 1:12 pm ET

Dems should do a better role of exposing Phil Gramm role regarding CDS and the mortgage crisis

dotherightthing   June 12th, 2008 1:12 pm ET

McCain can't even remember what he said last week much less run a country. If Republicans are so good at the economy, why are we in a depression and have a trillion dollor deficit.

I'd rather play my hand with Obama and get a little change going on…..

Obama 08

tyler   June 12th, 2008 1:12 pm ET

The Great thing is, myself and millions other "younger" voters cannot participate in the polls because we only have cell phones. Really only older people still have land lines, the ones that polls call.
Good news for Obama.

Alanna   June 12th, 2008 1:12 pm ET

McCain is supposed to be in Texas soon for fundraisers.

Don't give him any money!!!!

Send him home!!!

You're all crazy. . .   June 12th, 2008 1:12 pm ET

Putting Obama in office is like sending a student who just graduated with his Bachelor's directly into the O.R. - No Med school or residency. . . .Here's the knife - Go to it and Good Luck! I do like Obama and what he stands for, but I don't think he's capable of getting the job done. He needs more experience before he can run this country. I'm not a big fan of McCain, but he's the lesser of two evils.

TLD   June 12th, 2008 1:12 pm ET

I'am stunned at the degree of IGNORANCE with some of the post, it, in turn; makes me very sad.

Obama 08 & 12

Bluestate Dan   June 12th, 2008 1:11 pm ET

If McCain can get the press to focus on those annoying "details" of Obama's economic proposals, people will see Obama as a true Marxist, promoting central control over the economy, confiscatory taxes, new ineffective social programs, etc, etc. He is an economic nutcase of the first degree and, if allowed to actually implement any of his major ideas, will drive this country into a recession the like of which has not been seen for 70 years.

If you think I'm wrong, do some research on his proposals, open an economics text book and learn.

NELSON Colorado Springs, Co   June 12th, 2008 1:11 pm ET

Well here we go again, don't believe all the hipe about the edge. The race has just begun. When you put Sen Obama out front the new media it setting him up, reason being by saying this if Sen McCain close this lead the press will Sen Obama is losing edge on the economy.

John Foff III   June 12th, 2008 1:11 pm ET

Of course the people you polled support Obama over McCain on economic policy. If I trusted everything I read CNN.com or in the media (accept Fox and conservative radio who is biased to the right) I would think that Obama was the second coming of Christ or maybe George Washington. It amazes me that Americans are really willing to pay higher taxes and think that solutions to the economy will be answered by giving even more money to the government, so they can create social programs, get people jobs, and pay off big companies and unions so as to get ready for the next election.

We complain all the time about how the government wastes our money and then when a candidate says he wants more of our money rather than giving solutions to fix the mismanagement that is already going on in government, people say he's got the answers more money to Uncle Sam. When did we give the government the right to take our money as they choose and spend it where ever they want. Earmarks give our tax dollars, without a vote, to contributors of Congress people. Let me say it again, there is NO VOTE on earmarks.

What makes the fundamentals of the US Economy strong is the people. Government does not make the economy stronger, it can only weaken it by overspending, not regulating business correctly so that people are abused and equality is not granted, and by trying to solve problems by with industries that are mismanaged and failing by taking our money and giving it to them anyway. If I open a store in downtown Philadelphia and it is not successful, should Uncle Sam come in and help me pay my bills because if I fail a part of the economy will fail.

We need to re-evaluate what makes the US economy stronger and understand laziness and asking someone else to figure things out for us will not make the economy stronger. Obama sounds great, but Communism sounded great too, on paper.

For Change   June 12th, 2008 1:11 pm ET

True Republican…You are confused…..Im tired of this lame duck of a president we currently have….Im all for change.

Obama 08

Anna   June 12th, 2008 1:10 pm ET

America June 12th, 2008 12:58 pm ET

So basically, once gain, this article is attempting to communicate that 50% of Americans are very intelligent and 44% are complete idiots.

Paul is one of those 44%.

Brendan H., San Antonio, TX   June 12th, 2008 1:10 pm ET

PERSONAL TO tom shiner:

AFTER 8 YEARS OF ECONOMIC CHAOS AND NEAR FEDERAL BANKRUPTCY, HOW WOULD YOU PROPOSE TO PAY DOWN THE DEBT?!?!?!

Democrats propose taxes - to pay for the government, you right-wing, dim bulb!!!

Why try 08   June 12th, 2008 1:10 pm ET

To all Hillary injector who are upset that the democratic party chose the inexperienced, freshman senator who was ahead according to the same rules which put Bill Clinton as the nominee. You would rather they chose the candidate who wasn't even competent enought to beat a freshman Senator. who lost twice as many contest, who was behind in the pledge delegate count, and finally if you count all the states virtually tide her in the popular vote with out receiving one vote in the state of MI.

Let's not forget she left her campaign $20 million in debt and now has to go to him to pay her bill. And another she lost even though who would not bring up one of her past family scandals and when giving the opportuntiy in debates to comment on her gaffes he declined.

You can just about tell when folks started watching the debates because those who have been since nov knew Obama policies because of the previous debates. Those who came in Pennsylvania thinks Hillary had all the ideas.

Brian from Fort Mill, S.C.   June 12th, 2008 1:10 pm ET

To those who say that Barack Obama is stupid:

1. Bill Clinton is arguably smarter than any other politician, especially when it comes to campaigning. But he couldn't outsmart Obama. Same's true with Hillary. She couldn't outsmart him, either.

2. His policies are very similar to Hillary Clinton's. So if he is stupid, then so is she.

3. His policies are opposite of George Bush's. So if he is stupid, then George Bush is smart.

Or could it be that there are haters that can't say anything constructive, so they resort to name calling?

donna   June 12th, 2008 1:09 pm ET

To Carla: Why does he need to use his whole name? We ALL know his name..does Bush walk around saying "I am George Walker Bush"?, did Bill Clinton go around saying "I am William Jefferson Clinton?"…I don't think so so why should Barack do it?

You make NO SENSE at all…we know his name is BARACK HUSSEIN OBAMA…and your point????

Laughable   June 12th, 2008 1:09 pm ET

You know this article is biased when they say Obama is better suited to help the Economy. Laughable!!! Who did they interview to get these stats?? Higher taxes is not what's best for the economy. Give it a rest. You're trying to hard to get him elected and it's obivious. Let him stand on his own ideas if he has any.

FALSE FRONTS   June 12th, 2008 1:09 pm ET

C'mon now,

We all saw how stupid Ron Paul made McAmnesty look in the debate where he asked him about the president's working group on the economy. "er, uh, I have people" McLiberal said.

I just got through half of Ron Paul's number one best seller "the Revolution, a Manifesto.

It's obvious the media let the American public down by marginalizing this stellar candidate. He obviously knows more about the economy than the FED does….

I know who I'll be writing in come November… and he's not a member of the Commitee on Foriegn Relations. Kinda narrows it down….

Land of the Sheep, Home of the Ignorant and Afraid…

The Men   June 12th, 2008 1:08 pm ET

Obama has, in the last week, attained…UNFATHOMABLE POWER!! because his lead over McCain in national polls has increased, also in key demographics (clinton supporters, women) and, thus, he has……………………………………..UNFATHOMABLE POWER over the electorate and his constiuencies

henry of cleveland   June 12th, 2008 1:08 pm ET

barack the white house obama for president 2008
i am not about to see mcshame make my life more miserable
4 dollars for gas

Shawn - GA   June 12th, 2008 1:08 pm ET

These comments and the poll it'self are so tipped in Obama's favor only because school is out for the summer. It is the young who are supporting Obama in the first place. When the rest of us go to the polls before and after work in Nov then Mr. McCain will win.

Remember the lead Kerry had, the lead Gore had, the lead Dukakis had, the lead Carter had, the lead Mondale had? And remember which party won?

Kat   June 12th, 2008 1:08 pm ET

There is no reason to keep insulting McCain like he is some piece of garbage. He has accomplished much in his life, and to treat him like he nothing is wrong. He may not win the presidency, but he is a war hero and survivor. He is a good man.

Mike from Canada   June 12th, 2008 1:08 pm ET

Wow. I've been reading these blogs for several weeks now and I have to say that they are downright frightening. 80% of the posts are from people using nonsense arguments such as:

Obama is a muslim socialist! (he most certainly is not)
Hillary won the election but the DNC “chose”Obama! (even Hillary concedes defeat and is supporting Obama)
McCain is simply Bush term #3! (He differs from Bush in most ways, and has been against many of Bush's worst policies).

I'm all for supporting your candidate, but do it with arguments that make some sense.

If any of you would bother to read up on the issues, rather than get your news from idiot blog posts, then the US would be headed in the right direction. Americans are a smart, resilient and proud people. Unfortunately, the same cannot be said for American Bloggers.

Clinton/McCain   June 12th, 2008 1:07 pm ET

Uncle Sam,

These blogs are pro-Obama because (a) there are probably many more Democrats who go to CNN.com and (b) because as of 6 months ago CNN is the Obama News Network.

Uncle Sam   June 12th, 2008 1:07 pm ET

True believers in an Obama presidency are prepared to support their candidate regardless of the growing number of questions being raised about him. They would have us believe that everything we need to know about Barack Obama can be found on his website or in his autobiography. Only what Obama tells us about himself is to be believed. Anyhting else is a manufactured political distraction. So what are you going to believe - the Obama script or your lying eyes?

*Rev. Jeremiah Wright
*Trinity United Church
*Michelle Obama
*Tony Rezko
*Minister Louis Farrakhan
*Nation of Islam
*William Ayers
*Bernardine Dohrn
*Ahmad Yousuf (Hamas)
*Frank Marshall Davis
*Father Michael Pfleger
*George Soros
*Raila Odinga
*Abongo Obama
*Black Panthers
*Rashid Khalidi
*Nadhmi Auchi
*Rev. Meeks
*Saul Alinsky
*New Party (Marxist)

Brendan H., San Antonio, TX   June 12th, 2008 1:07 pm ET

Let's see, Americans trust someone else other than a Republican to solve economic owes?!?!?!

What a shock!!!

After the past 7 years of economic bliss, lies, deceit and pimping for big business, Americans would want to change that?!?!?!

I'm stunned!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

McCAIN-2008 = DOLE-1996!!!

McCAIN = BUSH LIGHT!!!!!!

WE DON'T WANT IT ANY MORE, GET IT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Jon, Los Angeles, CA   June 12th, 2008 1:07 pm ET

The simple fact is: McCain's politics are the same as Bush's politics. And Bush is the reason we're in such economic, and social turmoil right now.
McCain cannot fix this because his ideas are not new. They're old - Like his politics.

Republican for Obama   June 12th, 2008 1:07 pm ET

Larry of Boston:

Perhaps you would like to list Bill Clinton's national experience for us? What? He didn't have any. How can that be? But Democrats loved him and thought he did a great job as President.

Perhaps you would like to list Bill Clinton's economic experience for us? What? He headed a tiny state economy that was extremely poor and had the budget of a small NY city. How can that be? But Democrats loved him and thought he did a great job as President.

Anna   June 12th, 2008 1:07 pm ET

We have a solution for foreign policy issue too, select an experience person as VP.

Brian   June 12th, 2008 1:07 pm ET

McCain had a cameo appearance in 24. This is why he is better in foreign policy

James Friel   June 12th, 2008 1:07 pm ET

What has President Bush done for the economy in eight years?
All I ever hear from Mcain is: the Democrats will raise your taxes.
Same old rhetoric. Course the Republicans have got us into a worthless war that has cost billions of taxpayer dollars and lives, how about that. Even yesterday Bush said he did not regret getting us into Iraq, how arrogant is this man? Look, we need more than slogans, we need real change in this country. I would never vote for John Mccain, he even voted against increasing funding for Military Veterans to go to college.
And he wants to stay in Iraq for one hundred years till we win, he says.
Anyone who votes for Mcsame will get exactly what we have now in this country, a mess. I am willing to give Obama a chance with my vote.

Bubba   June 12th, 2008 1:06 pm ET

McCain says it isn't important.

Debbie   June 12th, 2008 1:06 pm ET

Do any voters think any more? The Obama phenomenon is just hype. The press has the DNC super delegates have anointed Obama as the savior and will stop at NOTHING to make sure he is elected.

What is the Prophet Obama going to do to help the economy? Some please tell me what he is going to do? Oh yes - he's going to bring about change! What change? He has surrounded himself with racists and sleezy business men. Is that change? Is that what we want?

He votes present 150 times as a state rep. Why?? Can't he make a decision? Does he not want us to see where he really stands on issues? Come on people - think!

And BTW Richard - why not just move to Canada now - and take all those Hollywood idiots with you.

John Miami, Florida   June 12th, 2008 1:06 pm ET

Is it just me or does it seem that JMc cannot speak publicly without reading from a teleprompter? It's really obvious!

Bill   June 12th, 2008 1:05 pm ET

Please. The election is going to be determined in late summer/early fall, when McCain is going gangbusters…and making mistakes in front of microphones, when people are actually listening. Like, during a debate, when he again conflates Iraqi insurgents with Al-Qaeda. Or when he repeatedly stumbles on details when attempting to speak about the economy, especially in response to on-camera questions. If nothing else, Obama is sharp mentally, and McCain will look old and a little confused by comparison. People are worried about their livelihoods (not their lives), so McCain will look like the risky choice. Unless Bush starts raising the national "terror alert" level, like he did to win re-election (and never again afterwards).

rexx   June 12th, 2008 1:05 pm ET

Obama is from the dirtiest political school available, the Chicago political machine. Just wait till Americans hear how he "won" his race for state senate lol. Welcome to honest and honorable President McCain.

oh and to the "person" who claims obama has more experience then Reagan did. lol. You do realize Reagan was the governor of California b4 he was President? Must have "slipped" your mind. lol. Obama has NO executive experience whatsoever and very little experience in the US senate. But he is experienced in Dirty Chicago politics. lol

Rlouden   June 12th, 2008 1:05 pm ET

There's something to be said about the candidates and how this reflects on the economy.

Hope vs. Fear
Progressive vs. Regressive.
Change vs. Reform

Beartrack   June 12th, 2008 1:05 pm ET

I can't believe we are all still buying McCains "foreign policy credentials". The man was shot down and used as a PR tool by the VC. He should be honored for that but, that was another time and his ideas are from that time. We need to think forward and right now that's not McCain. The Bush/McCain ways of thinking have to go..now!

Robert   June 12th, 2008 1:05 pm ET

McCain obviously doestn't have a clue on what to do to help the economy. He is using the same poor Economic Bush policies…even though they haven't worked. We need a President with some fresh ideas on how to get our Economy back on track. We need Obama!

Brenda   June 12th, 2008 1:05 pm ET

Yet another reason that Senator McCain HAS to choose MITT ROMNEY as a running mate.

Tommy Hussein in St. Louis   June 12th, 2008 1:05 pm ET

Larry of Boston, I think John McCain was the one who said he did not understand the economy, and that is directly quotable. I don't know what you mean by "national experience," but he is a U.S. Senator, is he not? Finally, no one, and I mean no one, has foreign policy experience before actually becoming president, unless he or she has served as Secretary of State or some other position in the State Department. Hillary didn't have it, and neither does McCain. You are holding him up to a standard that doesn't really exist. Bottom line, your comments are backed up by ZERO facts.

randy   June 12th, 2008 1:04 pm ET

I can't belive some people are trying to build up fear on american so the can't vote for obama well I got news for. you .we will not accept politics of fear come this november.OBAMA 08!

AHerbert; San Diego, CA   June 12th, 2008 1:04 pm ET

I am so confused; are American people/Republicans really that delusional? I mean come now.. you know where the Country quality of living status was eight years ago … can you say we are doing better now? Can you say that Bush and the Republican policies have nothing to do with the state of our Country. Please for the sake of our children and elders lets keep it real – it is time for change and unfortunately for McCain he is running his campaign the same as Bush policy wise and he will loose because I have faith in Americans … no matter your educational background, gender, religious beliefs you know like me we can not sustain another four years of Bush policy…. We just won’t be able to survive… so Obama has the edge on the economy is no surprise to me or anyone with an tad bit of sense…. I will keep the faith and trust that … Change for the better is in our near future.

chicago chris   June 12th, 2008 1:03 pm ET

@ Carla:
I never knew Harry Truman's middle name was "S." Also, just because you know the middle name of these presidents doesn't mean we actually used them when they were in office save JFK.

Clinton/McCain   June 12th, 2008 1:03 pm ET

These polls must be biased. There's no way that Obama is better at anything. He should go back to community organizing. About 75% of the Democrats I know aren't going to vote for Obama. These are people from PA and NJ.

Peter in PA   June 12th, 2008 1:03 pm ET

Just because someone was POW doesn't make him a good president. All McCain knows is how to fly a fighter jet, get caught by an enemy and endure the torture. That doesn't make him a smart and intelligent executive of this great nation.

This poll result is almost along the party line. So republicans will blindly follow their ideology no matter how worse the economy is. All I can hope for is that GOP and McCain go down in flame on November 4, 2007 for what these criminals did to our countries treasury and image around the world.

Caitlin   June 12th, 2008 1:03 pm ET

Hey, what's so bad about socialism? Obama's not left enough for me, but I'm still voting for him!

Pete   June 12th, 2008 1:03 pm ET

Obama's Economic team are from the Chicago University.

Rob   June 12th, 2008 1:03 pm ET

What's remarkable about it is that neither of them have a clue about what needs to be done to lead the economy from perceived weakness to perceived strength.. both make policy statements that would result in tanking the economy so all of those pollsters will be in more pain about this time next year no matter who gets elected.

carla   June 12th, 2008 1:03 pm ET

It has been decided by most acquaintances and family members. We just can't find it in our good conscience to vote for a man like Obama who has Next-To-Nothing experience. Moreover, nothing but nothing can justify the kind of CHANGE Obama brought to the Dem Party. He created great Division among our party. If that's his idea of 'Change,' We would rather vote Republican.

randy   June 12th, 2008 1:02 pm ET

I can't belive some people are trying to build up fear on american so the can't vote for obama well I got news for. you .we will not accept politics of fear come this november.

Dave in Houston   June 12th, 2008 1:02 pm ET

Obama needs to start this general election campaign by opening up a lead. For whatever stupid reason, there are people who may genuinely be undecided, and will tend to be more favorable to the candidate who seems like a "winner." If Obama builds a lead and gains the support of these independents, his support will spiral upward and result in a landslide victory.

By the way, anytime you hear "tax and spend liberal", counter that will "borrow and blow conservative." The Republicans under Bush have spent more than any government in history, they've spent in foolishly and corruptly and they've paid for it by running up the debt to historic levels.

Anti-Fascism   June 12th, 2008 1:02 pm ET

Both candidates are puppets of their party. The only thing that is gonna change in the next 4 years is that americans will become more and more dependent on the government to live their lives while at the same time losing more and more civil liberties. This country is on the verge of fascism. And is run by corporatocracy. I recommend reading the book Confessions of an Economic Hitman by John Perkins. Very insightful look at the US and its policies in regard to other nations and the reason we are so hated today.

Paul   June 12th, 2008 1:02 pm ET

Nothing personal, but it seems like the majority of Obama supporters are quacks. Go back and read some of their comments, it's like they are in some kind of cult or something. They want change so bad that they will vote for any fool that says he will change things. Doesn't matter if he can change anything, as long as he says he can. In the days of the old west we used to call these people snake-oil salesmen. He is selling a phase that means nothing, that he cannot deliver on, and if you ask 100 different voters what "yes we can" means you will get a 100 different answers…because it means nothing, which is what he is selling…NOTHING! Smarten up people, and use your head for more than a hat holder.

No More Clintons, CA   June 12th, 2008 1:01 pm ET

No VP to the Clintons!

Obama obviously can win without the backstabbing knife fighter Clintons. The Clintons polarizing character and HIGH NEGATIVE ratings will damage the Obama brand name and draw out voters to vote AGAINST THE CLINTONs.

Do not let the Clinton LOBBYISTS AND SPECIAL INTEREST GROUPS bully thier way for their own benefits. Those people are untrustworthy!

NEVER, NEVER, NEVER vote for another Clintons!

Richard   June 12th, 2008 1:01 pm ET

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
###################################################

NEW STORY - WALL STREET JOURNAL!!!!

"McCain's Tax Plan Favors Wealthiest, Analysis Says"

LOOK IT UP!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
###################################################

McCain AGAINST Womens' Rights   June 12th, 2008 1:01 pm ET

Handle the economy? Try to get the guy to understand how to use a personal computer. OUT OF TOUCH!

Alanna   June 12th, 2008 1:00 pm ET

Brian from Knoxville, TN

Blah, Blah, Blah, Blah.

Go away already

Semps, Chicago   June 12th, 2008 1:00 pm ET

Obama is the only person to deliver this country from its current economical troubles brought by the Republicans.

Venus   June 12th, 2008 1:00 pm ET

Not paying for the war in Iraq is part of Obama's economy plans…

Duh… we can't keep paying over 3-billions a month while we continue with job lose!

Go Obama! Everyone will benefit when you become president… even the ones not willing to vote for you!

Still for Hill   June 12th, 2008 1:00 pm ET

Enlightened Voter…

You so funny… Thank the Republican for Obama.

Probably one of the same people who brought you Bush…

Obama=Carter=Bush…

They have the same thing in common: No clue…

Hillary at the convention or McCain 08

True Republican   June 12th, 2008 1:00 pm ET

Obama will lose…..Too inexpierenced……He couldn't run a doughnut shop let alone the country…….Hillary supporters…stay home and cry we don't need traitors in the Republican party!

Ed from PA   June 12th, 2008 1:00 pm ET

I don't understand why there aren't more people supporting Obama's ideas of widespread international diplomacy. Our image overseas is horrendous - we have more enemies than ever - and that is absolutely critical to change. It is even more critical than the economy - over time, the economy will right itself. You can already see auto manufacturers being forced to react to high gas costs due to low SUV sales… these things all work out in due time. Businesses go where the money is, and right now the money is in green cars.

But our foreign policy needs a serious, serious fix.

tom shiner   June 12th, 2008 12:59 pm ET

Think taxes are high now, wait till we get a DEM in office

Jamaall Kansas   June 12th, 2008 12:59 pm ET

McSame don't know nothing about the Economy and he is running for president when the Economy is the biggest issue. What sense do this make he has lost before he started

Alanna   June 12th, 2008 12:59 pm ET

McCain doesn't even know how to use a computer. How do you expect him to help our country.

Since he's already admitted he knows nothing about the economy then why is he even running.

This is a simple choice.

Obama 08 12

tim   June 12th, 2008 12:58 pm ET

i think they need to get rid of both of them and get new ones that wont try to kill our country anymore then Bush has already did.

Brad K   June 12th, 2008 12:58 pm ET

"It's the economy, stupid!"

This election is Obama's to win or lose.

hans van den berg   June 12th, 2008 12:58 pm ET

Obvious the American public is as ignorant as always. They think that McCain will do better in foreign politics….. They forget that the world is waiting for an America without Bush and an America without Republicans.
We will welcome Obama as President in Europe. McCain better stays home……….

JESSIE   June 12th, 2008 12:58 pm ET

MCCAIN SAID HE STILL NEEDED TO BE EDUCATED ON ECONOMICS AND OBAMA WILL EDUCATE HIM.

Richard, FL   June 12th, 2008 12:58 pm ET

The Truth-

Everyone knows there are 50 states. Obviously, not everyone knows there were 57 primaries. Apparently some people think Puerto Rico, Guam, etc. are states. Barack knows better than them.

This is just another example of the incredible false accusations against Barack Obama by the John "Bomb Bomb Bomb Iran" McCain people.

America   June 12th, 2008 12:58 pm ET

So basically, once gain, this article is attempting to communicate that 50% of Americans are very intelligent and 44% are complete idiots.

george   June 12th, 2008 12:58 pm ET

POLLS SMOLLS….THEY ARE ALWAYS FULLA HOLES…THIS DAY THEY SAY ONE THING….TOMORROW THEY SAY ANOTHER…TO BELIEVE A POLL IS TO STICK YOUR HEAD INNA HOLE…..A POLL IS A FRACTION OF PEOPLE'S OPINION……NO WAY DO THEY ACCURATELY PREDICT WHAT WILL HAPPEN….JUST ASK HILLARY…..SHE THOUGHT SHE HAD IT IN THE BAG BY SEEING WHAT THE POLLS SAID………..

ken   June 12th, 2008 12:58 pm ET

OK, let's give the economy to Obama (although I don't know why). However we know one thing for sure and that is those crazies (terrorists) will not want to mess with McCain (as President) so that gives McCain the advantage on homeland security. Therefore, in my estimation that also gives him a leg up on the economy unless you forgot the economic lessons of September 11, 2001. In other words, it doesn't matter what Obama has in mind for the economy, it could all be blown away with another major attack on US soil. I would strongly suggest McCain get Mitt Romney as VP to help with the nation's day to day economic issues. McCain would continue to keep this nation free from facing another terrorist attack and protecting the stability of Romney's economic genius. If you really are interested in what's best for this nation, this, to me, appears to be the best economic plan.
BTW I don't think McCain will have trouble with Romney's religion considering the flip flopping of Obama's recent decisions. I don't think they would even want to go there. :-)

christina   June 12th, 2008 12:57 pm ET

Thank goodness Americans are starting to see the light. Who wants to leave under 4 more years of the same trash that dragged us down with Bush. George Bush has to be the MOST hated president of all times and McCain is sure to follow in his footsteps. Lucky for him (McCain) Obama will alleviate some of that pressure by becoming president!

OBAMA '08!!!

Dave   June 12th, 2008 12:57 pm ET

Ah, the Obamite youth are spewing their hateful little remarks and idiotic slogans again. Little soldiers marching in lock-step while their charasmatic leader gives them their marching orders that he will deny later on. And, the censors at CNN filtering content to slant towards Obamas advantage. Change, Change…thats the same thing the German were saying in the 1930's.

larry of Boston   June 12th, 2008 12:57 pm ET

Does Obama even know what the economy is? I am dumbfounded by the voters who continue to believe that someone like Obama with ZERO national experience and ZERO economic experience can lead this county. Not to mention Obama's ZERO foreign policy experience and his ZERO defense and terrorism experience. I just do not get it. We may hear nice speeches, but beyond that - expect a BIG ZERO if this guy is elected

Sergio   June 12th, 2008 12:56 pm ET

How can he have the edge? Give me a break CNN. Come out of the closet and endorse your presidential candidate Obama.

CAL   June 12th, 2008 12:56 pm ET

Look people it does not take a genius to know that Obama is more equipped to help this economy than that old goat. Tho old geeser thinks because he was a prisoner of war we should vote for him, he's a idiot and I sure hope his followers wake up before its to late. Tell mccain to go and veto beer and shut up

Obama 08-2012

Felly   June 12th, 2008 12:56 pm ET

What do you expect from an old Mcbush that does not understand economics 101? Obama is the real deal and brings a breath of fresh air.

Check it out! I can be stupid too!   June 12th, 2008 12:56 pm ET

Obama, what do you think about economy?
Answer: The war should never been authorized.

Obama, what do you think about the sky-rocketing prices of food, etc.?
Answer: The war should never been waged.

Obama, what do you think about the families who are losing their homes?
Answer: Yes we can!

Obama, what do you really think about our the war and our troops?
Answer: No Whitey.

ml   June 12th, 2008 12:55 pm ET

………" D.C. Obama will do the right thing - bring in experts on the economy AND LISTEN TO THEM AND ACT WISELY… unlike the moron we have in office right now…………."

the same can do McCain, and will. SO what is the difference?

Caryn, WDC   June 12th, 2008 12:55 pm ET

I will be deeply saddened if McCain wins this election.

Pat   June 12th, 2008 12:55 pm ET

Wow. The hatred of Obama's fans here is vile.

Looks like the hatred from Obama's church.

I guess we know what to look forward to as Obama plays dirty Chicago politics during this election.

Enlightened Voter -   June 12th, 2008 12:55 pm ET

Republican for Obama - you my friend are a very opened minded person. We welcome you aboard!
BTW people, did you know that Reagan has less political experience than Obama?

Phil, FL   June 12th, 2008 12:53 pm ET

Any of you that make more than $250,000 had better worry.

Obama will raise your taxes.

And lower everyone else's. <<<<<<<——————————-

OBAMA - DOWN LOW JUNKIE?   June 12th, 2008 12:53 pm ET

YES HE IS

True Republican   June 12th, 2008 12:53 pm ET

Hillary supporters…..Thanks but NO thanks…..We can defeat Obama in November without your vote! We don't need any excuses from Obama and his supporters that they lost because …you all were sore losers and switched parties….We will defeat Obama in November no matter what!

McCain 08

Republican for Obama   June 12th, 2008 12:53 pm ET

Month after month the Obama haters say "the truth about him will come out soon". Yet the claims of dark seeded conspiracies never appear, I wonder why? Probably because there aren't any! He's just a smart guy with the good judgment to listen to all sides and make an informed decision in what he does. It's getting old like the little girl who cried wolf. You can only put out some lie that is proven wrong so many times before people realize you've got nothin'.

Brian Knoxville, TN   June 12th, 2008 12:52 pm ET

Obamabots, close your ears (or leave them open, as you can't hear or understand what I'm about to say anyway).

For everyone else who understands the way in which the failed leadership of the undemocratic Democratic Party has abused its power in an effort to keep it by selecting this unknown, inexperienced and unqualified false nominee, who has also begun to abuse his power in an effort to keep it:

Fear not. These polls show popular vote and often deal exclusively with single issues (like the one in this story).

Fact is, only the poll in November matters, and that process will tally only the electoral votes. There are a number of traditional and so-called "new map" swing states that true Democrats are targetting to ensure that Barack Obama and his enablers fail to win the electoral votes they need to keep power over the DNC and the Democratic Party.

We're taking it back.

Count on it.

One of the 18 million.
Puma Democrat
blog.pumapac.org

Mary   June 12th, 2008 12:52 pm ET

How can anyone say that. While he was a state sernator, his district lost 11 % of their jobs. So bad, a lot of his legislative bills were for hand-outs. These polls show exactly what the sponsor want them to show. It is called distortion of facts.

Chris, Denver CO   June 12th, 2008 12:52 pm ET

Of course Obama has the edge on the economy. McCain is still trying to peddle the old discredited trickle-down theory and people are finally starting to see through it.

Eileen   June 12th, 2008 12:52 pm ET

Why is it I was not able to vote on this issue! That is why they Poll shows Obama favored! AFTER ALL! Don't forget it is Congress who makes the laws & appoints the Supreme Court Justices who would rather see these Terriorists from China & Russia go free rather than
to put them to Death like they should be!

Phil, FL   June 12th, 2008 12:52 pm ET

don't worry about tax increases - they can only tax earnings.

the way things are going, there will be no jobs, no earnings, no taxes.

HA

Sarah   June 12th, 2008 12:52 pm ET

Obama is on his way to the White House. America can no longer afford this broken economy, this ridiculous war, high gas prices, expensive healthcare, joblessness, the highest percentage of foreclosures in American history, and the list goes on and on……This is all because of BUSH policy that McShame wants to continue. He doesn't care about the American people. The American people have been suffering for too long and this CANNOT go on more…..

OBAMA WILL FREE US OF THIS REPUBLICAN RULE!

OBAMA '08—-PRESIDENT OF THE U.S 08-16

David Goldman for OBAMA   June 12th, 2008 12:52 pm ET

YOOOO GET REAL AMERICA.

IT'S A PROBLEM THAT WE ARE EVEN HAVING THIS DISCUSSION.

HE CAN'T READ A SPEECH, HE PROBABLY

PRACTICED FOR DAYS.

HE CAN'T REMEMBER WHO WE ARE FIGHTING

HE IS WORKING ON THE BEER PROHIBITION.

THIS MAN CAN'T FIND THE DOOR WITHOUT THE

HELP OF HIS PILL POPPER OR JOE LIEBERFOOL.

The Truth   June 12th, 2008 12:52 pm ET

delusional

that is what you must be on this one

Tommy Hussein in St. Louis   June 12th, 2008 12:52 pm ET

The Truth June 12th, 2008 12:45 pm ET

It would seem that these "polls" were taken from possibly people with barely enough skills to tie their shoes or brush their one tooth! To say that Obama Hussein knows more about the economy than McCain, just goes to show how ignorant voters have become. Obama knows very little about anything, just by listening to his latest speeches where he stammers and forgets that we have only 50 not 57 states in this country. His economy would definitely be for the rich because guess what? ONLY the rich will be able to afford his tax increases! So why don't we just stop kidding ourselves, stop putting out these phony "most american" polls and for once TELL THE TRUTH!! Obama is a light weight & a dolt who will get us into more trouble not just with the economy, but with our enemies abroad as well. I wouldn't be suprised if Mohamar Khadafy of Libya goes back to being a terrorist and begins to rebuild a nuclear program again. Who would blame him? Knowing full well that should Hussein Obama be elected, Khadafy would just continue to "talk" to the clueless Obama while at the same time, build up his nuclear missile defense. So keep believing these stupid polls you nitwit Obamaites! Just remember one thing, "be careful what you wish for because you just might get it"!!!

—————————————————————————-

It's kind of funny that you call yourself "The Truth," because your comments are pure speculation and opinion, with not even a single fact to be found anywhere.

An Independent Hillary   June 12th, 2008 12:51 pm ET

Why are the choices in this election so crappy???

Justin, Ohio   June 12th, 2008 12:50 pm ET

Comparing John McCain and Obama is comical. John McCain has a track record and Obama has little experience with ANYTHING. Obama has nothing but empty promises to back him up making America think he's the one that will save us and solve all of our problems. However I'm sure raising taxes won't help a majority of Americans who already struggling as it is. At least point I'm still basing my vote on experience over empty promises.

Phil, FL   June 12th, 2008 12:50 pm ET

Oh yeah - get Mit in there - multiple wives, mormonism crammed down our throats.

HA!!

Cynhtia   June 12th, 2008 12:49 pm ET

I initially gave McCain the benefit of the doubt on the econmy. Then I did my research on him. Sadly, I discovered that his understanding on this issue is not very indept al all. He just doesn't get it. Anyone who would aggresively push the tax holiday, even after all economists dismiss it at counter-productive to a growing economy, doesn't even understand the basics of Econ 101.

doh!   June 12th, 2008 12:49 pm ET

"I will reject every beer…" and I thought GWB was a doofus…this guy is even worse..the repub's sure know who to pick a candidate….clueless is as clueless does.

D.C.   June 12th, 2008 12:49 pm ET

Hey, CNN… I bet most of the posts above are from one or two people. Try checking their IP addresses.

The same people who pretended to be Democrats for Hillary. Repubs pretending to be Dems. Lame.

It's clear, folks. Obama will be our next president and the country AND THE WORLD will rejoice.

Jason   June 12th, 2008 12:49 pm ET

I'm guessing small business owners and other hard-working americans were too busy to respond to this poll… leaving only welfare recipients and University Professors to pick up the phone

Chesterton/Belloc '08   June 12th, 2008 12:49 pm ET

I firmly believe neither one of them will be exceptionally good on the economy. I also believe the economy was doing fairly well until the 06 elections when the democrats took control of Congress. The Republicans had control of Congress when the economy was doing well under Clinton. My point: Congress, through powers invested unto them by the constitution have as much power as the President. Checks and Balances people. However, Washington is so Corrupt and they enjoy their power so much nothing will get done. They will continue to pillage our women and rape our land until people stop suckling at the teet of the the media, who has an agenda to ruin this country.

That is why I support the Chesterton/Belloc '08 ticket: The party of common sense will prevail..

Democrats Unite!!!   June 12th, 2008 12:48 pm ET

McCain will be worse than Bush…
Can you imagine that?

Geri   June 12th, 2008 12:48 pm ET

Yep! A greenhorn with NO experience or legislative accomplishments to his credit will do a better job than a man of experience who has spent the last several years condemning the present administration for getting us into such an economic mess. McCain has what it takes to straighten out our economic woes. He will bring in the best ecomomists and consider the recommendations of experts. And, he knows exactly what to do to get the job done in Washington.

Lori   June 12th, 2008 12:48 pm ET

McCain will veto every beer….. That is undfriendly. Seriously, do we need a speaker for president with the same speech skills as W?

ANGIE   June 12th, 2008 12:47 pm ET

what do you expect mccain is clueless he is very very lost not just on the economy but on many things he flip flops so much he has my head spinning i really dont know what he is saying listen people its a really scary thing to let mccain in that white house he has a bad memory he has proven that and at his age the brain does not process as quickly people if he becomes president that is going to be ONE SCARY THING!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Praetorian, Fort Myers   June 12th, 2008 12:47 pm ET

mjc…you dolt…do you really believe that just beating a candidate by poplular support is all that is at risk? What nuncio!! We must sustain the American way of life which is already threatened by the ingnoramous's we have in Washington. Where does Hussien's alliances really lie? With you the struggling working American taxpayer–or with all those disadvantaged ethnic groups legal citiizens have been ignoring/disenfranchising? Or those Islamic elements in the middle east who really believe we can peacefully negotiate after they killed more than 2,000 or our citizens and over 4000 of our military in support of nothing more than basic human rights?

Go home–sleep on it—and let me know you/re now a LIbertarian!!

IAMWMD   June 12th, 2008 12:46 pm ET

Is it the Ambien drug that Tales from the McCrip takes thats causing the pale skin, phoney smiles and the Bush-like hand gestures during his speeches or is it because George Dubya Bush and Tales from the McCrip are joined at the hip.

Stephanie - Fl   June 12th, 2008 12:46 pm ET

McCain said himself that he doesn't know much about the economy.
Yet, you still want him as your president????huuum?
Not this time. I'd like to think the majority of Americans are smarter than that.

j in colorado   June 12th, 2008 12:46 pm ET

Why do we continue to see ridiculous stories like this spouted off as news? Ask any of those polled if they can name one thing Obama will do to help the economy. . .

D.C.   June 12th, 2008 12:46 pm ET

I've never understood how John McShame can accuse Obama and his supporters of being "tax and spend" liberals when he and his twin Bush and his party are "tax and war" Republicans.

Seriously. How many programs could be funded with those billions and billions and billions of dollars? How many young men and women would still be alive? Shame on you, John McWar. Our economy has been destroyed by Bush, but in reality, it's the Republican military machine that has been steadily eroding it for years.

Obama will do the right thing - bring in experts on the economy AND LISTEN TO THEM AND ACT WISELY… unlike the moron we have in office right now.

Obama / Biden '08

Kristen- Philadelphia, PA   June 12th, 2008 12:46 pm ET

McCain losing when it comes to the economy
McCain losing when it comes to the war in Iraq
McCain losing when it comes to health care
McCain losing when it comes to speaking in public
McCain is losing on every issue…McCain will lose in November

OBAMA 08!!!!

Ken, LA California   June 12th, 2008 12:46 pm ET

Does McCain have an email address, has he ever sent a text message, does he know how to use msn messenger, how can we elect such a guy in this era. You cant tech an old guy new tricks

Kathryn Irby - Metairie, LA   June 12th, 2008 12:46 pm ET

I never doubted Obama!!! He is brilliant!!! Unlike George W. Bush, he also is an intellectual!!!!

MD   June 12th, 2008 12:46 pm ET

McCane said something about not knowing much about the economy and his need to go and read some books on the subject.

I think as long as McCane insists that his rediculous idea of the "gas tax holiday" is a solution to combat high gas prices, I have no choice but to send him those economics he wanted real quick.

True Republican   June 12th, 2008 12:46 pm ET

Hillary supporters…..Thanks but NO thanks…..We can defeat Obama in November without your vote! We don't need any excuses from Obama and his supporters that they lost because …you all were sore losers and switched parties….We will defeat Obama in November no matter what!

McCain 08

carla   June 12th, 2008 12:46 pm ET

Ah yes yes Yesss, I forgot CNN. My comment is awaiting moderation.

The Truth   June 12th, 2008 12:45 pm ET

It would seem that these "polls" were taken from possibly people with barely enough skills to tie their shoes or brush their one tooth! To say that Obama Hussein knows more about the economy than McCain, just goes to show how ignorant voters have become. Obama knows very little about anything, just by listening to his latest speeches where he stammers and forgets that we have only 50 not 57 states in this country. His economy would definitely be for the rich because guess what? ONLY the rich will be able to afford his tax increases! So why don't we just stop kidding ourselves, stop putting out these phony "most american" polls and for once TELL THE TRUTH!! Obama is a light weight & a dolt who will get us into more trouble not just with the economy, but with our enemies abroad as well. I wouldn't be suprised if Mohamar Khadafy of Libya goes back to being a terrorist and begins to rebuild a nuclear program again. Who would blame him? Knowing full well that should Hussein Obama be elected, Khadafy would just continue to "talk" to the clueless Obama while at the same time, build up his nuclear missile defense. So keep believing these stupid polls you nitwit Obamaites! Just remember one thing, "be careful what you wish for because you just might get it"!!!

katie   June 12th, 2008 12:45 pm ET

Why is anyone worried about the numbers now. There is alot of time between now and November. Obama is not the boy wonder and he has not been vetted yet. Voters have a right to know who Obama is and what he is up to. I can't help but believe that 3 years in Washington gives him the experience he will need to run the country and let's face it being whatever in the ILL house just isn't going to cut it in the nationals.

Chi Son   June 12th, 2008 12:45 pm ET

Waaaaat? No one cares about the economy. I wants a President I can have a beer with at a pub without feeling like I'm the dumbest guy in the bar. I don't want some smart guy, who thinks he's so smart, with some smart degree from some smart college running our country. McCain's the man. He'll keep our economy going, and keep the deficit in check for the future generation. Psshh. 25,000 polar bears! We don't need 25,000 polar bears. Who's heard of bear meat, and no one wants bear fur? We need about 200 of them for the zoos, and that's about it. We need to start drilling for oil everywhere, and build a refinery in central park.

58 old white ladies for OBAMA   June 12th, 2008 12:44 pm ET

MCMOULD KNOWS ALL HE NEEDS TO KNOW ABOUT

HIS ECONOMY. THE LONGER THE TROOPS STAY IN IRAQ

THE RICHER HE & HIS LOBBYISTS GET. OUR ECONOMY &

TROOPS, HE COULD NOT CARE LESS ABOUT.

Omele M   June 12th, 2008 12:44 pm ET

War breeds bleeding blood ,Obama is anti-war.He should be in the White House.

A Dem in November   June 12th, 2008 12:44 pm ET

Why is it the Republicans never complain about how innacurate polls are when it's their candidate who fairs well in them?

When McCain was doing better in the polls, that's all you see them bring up, but now that he's slipping in the polls, they're either CNN lies, fabrication or completely innacurate.

Bulldog   June 12th, 2008 12:44 pm ET

I love all of these Obama bashers who throw out senseless rhetoric with nothing to back it up. They obviouly are getting their information straight from Sean Hannity, Rush Limbaugh, and all of those lying smear emails……and they actually believe this stuff. Idiots!

Michelle   June 12th, 2008 12:44 pm ET

Newsflash, folks. Obama is going to RAISE taxes.

I hope McCain chooses Mitt Romney for VP. Mitt has
financial experience.

Mish   June 12th, 2008 12:44 pm ET

Senator Obama will be the next president by a wide margin

trust my *psychic* intuition;-)

Steve - Minneapolis   June 12th, 2008 12:44 pm ET

To: al

I'm curious to know what reading material you have used to come to your conclusion. I find Obama significantly more educated in all of the subjects that you mention. Compare the candidates notes, books and speeches before making such a sweeping comment.

Jim   June 12th, 2008 12:44 pm ET

CNN is in the tank for Obama! C,mon. You can't pull the wool over my eyes with your payrolled propaganda for the Obama campaign. The only warning sign I see in this poll is that the majority of Americans' don't know a thing about Barry Obama and his socialist vision for America. Once you lift the covers off this gifted orator, you can see what we would get. As the most liberal senator in Congress, Obama doesn't have any track record on building bi partisan support or enacting legislation by reaching out across the aisle. Yet this imposter claims he will do exactly that? Yeah right. Who actually has the track record in doing this and stands a chance of bringing true change to Washington politics?

John McCain in 2008.

Ron, LV   June 12th, 2008 12:44 pm ET

For those who say that Obama will raise taxes, do your homework. If you look at independant studies of their tax proposals, only those who make more than $650,000 a year will have increased taxes. Those who make less than $125,000 a year receive a bigger tax break under Obama than McCain. Also, under McCain those making over $650,000 get about a 3.4% tax break where as those under $100,000 would get less than a 1% tax break. The same Bush stuff of giving the biggest tax breaks to those who don't need it while letting the rest of pay for it. Also, under McCain, if you earn minimum wage or a little more, you don't get any tax break.

KJ, CA   June 12th, 2008 12:44 pm ET

That could be because McCain came out and said a few months ago that he doesn't know anything about the economy. I don't know about anyone else but, especially with the economy in the state that it is, I want someone who knows something about the economy as President of the United States.

Love from Russia   June 12th, 2008 12:43 pm ET

You Americans will be the dumbest people on this planet if you elect McCain! Your economy is pretty much going down the hill. USA has lost respect in lots of foreign countries and on the top of that McCain want to veto BEER! =)<