June 19, 2008
Posted: 12:35 PM ET

From
CNN

Sen. Obama released an ad Thursday that emphasizes patriotism and values.

(CNN) — Barack Obama’s campaign released its first ad of the general election campaign Thursday, a 60-second spot designed to highlight his patriotism and values.

“Country I Love” will air in some perennial swing states including Florida, Michigan and Indiana – but also in some traditionally Republican areas that the Obama campaign is hoping to compete in this fall, such as Georgia, North Dakota and Virginia.

WATCH Sen. Obama's new ad "Country I love"

The spot features a single-camera shot of Obama addressing the camera. “America is a country of strong families and strong values,” says the presumptive Democratic nominee. “My life’s been blessed by both.”

Earlier this week, John McCain released its first general election spot, “Global.” The 30-second spot, which is airing in traditional battleground states, seeks to spotlight McCain’s maverick reputation and environmental credentials.

The Obama campaign said the ad will air Friday in Alaska, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Iowa, Indiana, Michigan, Missouri, Montana, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Mexico, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Wisconsin, and Virginia.

(Full script after the jump)

SCRIPT – “Country I Love”

OBAMA: I’m Barack Obama.

America is a country of strong families and strong values. My life’s been blessed by both.

I was raised by a single mom and my grandparents. We didn’t have much money, but they taught me values straight from the Kansas heartland where they grew up. Accountability and self-reliance. Love of country. Working hard without making excuses. Treating your neighbor as you’d like to be treated. It’s what guided me as I worked my way up – taking jobs and loans to make it through college.

It’s what led me to pass up Wall Street jobs and go to Chicago instead, helping neighborhoods devastated when steel plants closed.

That’s why I passed laws moving people from welfare to work, cut taxes for working families and extended health care for wounded troops who’d been neglected.

I approved this message because I’ll never forget those values, and if I have the honor of taking the oath of office as President, it will be with a deep and abiding faith in the country I love.

Filed under: Barack Obama • Political ads


Obama the Phony Baloney, Plastic Banana, Good Time Rock-n-Roller   June 19th, 2008 1:59 pm ET

The candidate doth protest too much methinks.

DJ, LA, CA   June 19th, 2008 1:59 pm ET

The Neo-Cons are just desperate. First they question Obama not wearing a flag pin, or how often he does, whether or not he is Christian and now they make pathetic attacks on his wife. It's really pathetic but predicatable the GOP "base" resorts to these tactics that have 0 to do with the real issues.

Heather   June 19th, 2008 1:59 pm ET

Wow, a lot of racists on these blogs. (talking to you, biff biffington.) But it's alright — we don't want you deciding this election. We'll just have to drag all of you, kicking and screaming, into the 21st century.

clove   June 19th, 2008 1:58 pm ET

Clinto/mccann!!!!!

C from Texas   June 19th, 2008 1:57 pm ET

Just keep his Ads out of Texas, we want nothing to do with him down here.

lil   June 19th, 2008 1:57 pm ET

Clinton/macain
Read up on what her PhD was in and how she got it before you throw
something out there.
When you do that then comment.

Keep your friends close and your enemies closer   June 19th, 2008 1:57 pm ET

He loves this country so much he's willing to run for President just so he can take it down from the inside.

aware   June 19th, 2008 1:57 pm ET

Nice try but no buy Obama!

Don't vote for the talk candidate who can't walk it! :(

Vote for McCain an American hero in touch with mainstream Americans. He is gutsy! :)

Ding, Washington, DC   June 19th, 2008 1:56 pm ET

Awesome ad!

Phil Newton, Murphy OR   June 19th, 2008 1:56 pm ET

Obama's story is America's story.

He's proud. He appreciates this country in a way that the rich and privileged never will.

That's patriotism.

Bella from Florida   June 19th, 2008 1:56 pm ET

There is this huge machine behind this man and I think it is not only coming from Obama 's supporters.He is getting support from the Middle East and from Europe.This is scary that other countries are deciding who our next president will be.

steve   June 19th, 2008 1:55 pm ET

I ask you, those Americans who judge everyone based on their 'patriotism', isn't this propaganda word the reason President Bush was able to have Congress and the American public look the other way when he wanted to make the false case to go into Iraq? You want to steer our country with issues like abortion, gay marriage, patriotism, racism, and sexism. Spew your hatred and fears all you want, just please stop deciding my children's future.

Weepy   June 19th, 2008 1:53 pm ET

This guy is such a FRAUD! Just because he can make a pretty speech, some folks are convinced he is worthy of being our president. Just the thought of that happening is beginning to make me feel physically ill! Why should anyone have faith and confidence in the likes of him? He has done NOTHING to engender ANY faith and confidence.

Frankly, I AM SCARED of him, his radical wife, and his SOCIALIST friends. This is a nightmare!!

Gorbashov, Long Beach, Ca.   June 19th, 2008 1:52 pm ET

Good Ad! Good Start!!

This will address the back-channel fear mongering out there.

Obama/Nunn in 2008 and beyond!

California Voter   June 19th, 2008 1:52 pm ET

Interesting that we have a candidate that has to tell the American people that he is patriotic. I don't hate Obama however, I am concerned that he has never answered any questions as to why he was a member of a black liberation church for 20 years and never heard Rev. Wright preach any inflammatory sermons of hate and racism. I question Obama's experience, judgment, honesty and core values. It's not about race folks it is about core values.

John   June 19th, 2008 1:51 pm ET

Empty rhetoric and promises from an empty man.

Alice   June 19th, 2008 1:51 pm ET

Why would someone who is NOT "patriotic" (whatever that means) go through the horrendous process of running for President?

Those of you who question Obama's patriotism are no better than Joe McCarthy (though you probably don't even know who he was.)

Agnostic Democrat   June 19th, 2008 1:50 pm ET

FEDUP:

For the first time in my adult life I can see through the false patriotism of John McSham, the rest of the wingnuts (including his wife) and people like you who have their own warped definition of patriotism that falls back centuries in time.

Don Colony14Author, Mt Prospect, IL   June 19th, 2008 1:50 pm ET

Patriotic? Isn't this the guy who wrote in his "Audacity of Hope" book: "I will stand with the Muslims should the political winds shift in an ugly direction." (I admit, I only borrowed the book; I wasn't about to buy it.)

BigAce   June 19th, 2008 1:50 pm ET

Boy, these posers are really reaching at the bottom of the barrel to attack Obama.

Clinton/McSame poser: "His mom had a Phd" - No, she was a nurse.
Anna, OH poser: "$1 Million plus salary…..Out of touch" - I wonder how much Cindy McCain is worth? Hmmm.

The posers present no facts , just hysteria and misinformation, but as was stated before "IT WILL NOT WORK THIS TIME".

But Hey, keep posting, you have nothing better to do since your candidate is not the greatest choice.

GO OBAMA

Ginny CA   June 19th, 2008 1:50 pm ET

Oh, NOW you're patriotic, wearing a flag pin, and love your country. Better tell Michelle so she'll be on the same page with you in her "stump" speeches.

BIFF, BIFFINGTON...   June 19th, 2008 1:49 pm ET

you freaking idiots…

does anyone who HATES America RUN FOR PRESIDENT????

(let alone a black man who KNOWS he will have a quadruply difficult time)

Craig Nazor   June 19th, 2008 1:49 pm ET

This is interesting - the only way to attack this add is through the cynicism of calling Obama a liar. Who is going to take seriously the splenetic ventings of a cynic? In the end, people are going to believe what they want to believe. Some have already decided, but those who haven't are not going to listen to all this negative drivel as long as one side refuses to go there and instead supports an intelligent discussion of the issues. This election, like no other, will reflect the true heart of America, as it will clearly delineate the difference between winning by demonizing your opponent as opposed to winning on the issues. I just hope Americans can look up from their emotional reactivity (encouraged by the media) long enough to make a good decision. The fate of the world is in the balance.

Uncle Sam   June 19th, 2008 1:47 pm ET

Certainly one can criticize their country and still be proud of it.

What if?   June 19th, 2008 1:47 pm ET

you can PLEASE SOME of the POEPLE MOST of the TIME………………
and SKIP the PEOPLE that are NOT WORTH pleaseing…. ALL THE TIME.

Go OBAMA………………….THAT’S OUR PRESIDENT!!!!

Scott, Wichita   June 19th, 2008 1:45 pm ET

Kinda hard to convince people of your patriotism if you wont say the pledge of allegiance

O Phony   June 19th, 2008 1:45 pm ET

Obama is such a phony. Calls himself patriotic but never served in the military, doesn’t wear a lapel pin (until recently), doesn’t put his hand over his heart during the national anthem, attends church were the preacher declares GD America, doesn’t visit the troops in Iraq. If this guy is patriotic, George Bush is a genius.

BHO Not my candidate   June 19th, 2008 1:45 pm ET

Dont lie… btw responding means theres an issue… you were better leaving this one alone…

Robert from Washington   June 19th, 2008 1:44 pm ET

It never ceases to amaze me — the number of people who presume to judge another's patriotism by their use of flag pins, bumperstickers , slogans and other flub dubs. I tell you, if there is such a thing as reincarnation and we grow wiser as we roll on through successive lifetimes, too many Americans are on their first life, dumb as a stick.

The Truth   June 19th, 2008 1:44 pm ET

Larry Sinclair is going to expose the real Obama. Then you worshippers can either come back to reality or join Obama in the limo. HAHAHAHAHA !!!

McCain 2008 !!! For a real man or

Obama, for a well…feminine !!! HAHAHAHAHA !!!

Bella from Florida   June 19th, 2008 1:42 pm ET

Sorry too little too late for many of us.

Bella from Florida   June 19th, 2008 1:41 pm ET

Mccain does not need to remind people of how patriotic he is because we all know that he has proven himself. Poor Obama he needs to have a commercial on TV to let people know that he loves this country. "Pathetic"

outsider   June 19th, 2008 1:41 pm ET

A CHANGE IS COMING, SMILE AMERICA

Margi   June 19th, 2008 1:41 pm ET

Nice job!
Obama 08′

Rudy NYC   June 19th, 2008 1:40 pm ET

Is this what Obama calls grabbing the bull by the horns, and being proactive?

Patrick Henry, Fort Myers   June 19th, 2008 1:40 pm ET

Of course he's a patriot, well at least in his own preception and words. Which is the heart of his being the "wrong guy" for Commander-In-Chief……

He's a patriot only when it's politically feazent.

When he sat in his church and heard the disgusting remarks his mentor and pastor vomited on the cheering congregation (likely he and his wife included) about other citizens of a different color, and other political leaders of a different stripe–he was afraid, unheroic, and clearly not espousing the excreta on "being American" and pride in all American's he is uttering today!!

Patriots–fight for the ideals of our country, all the time, everyday, at risk to life, limb, fortune–even when it is not politically expedient Mr. Obama.

Pepou   June 19th, 2008 1:39 pm ET

To Anna, OH. How much do you think Cindy McCain's fortune is ? Enough to get her a total face lift …

Ohio for Obama   June 19th, 2008 1:39 pm ET

Another one of gop's strategies to keep him off focus because they know all mcbush has to offer is the war. This is to big of a risk to take my child's future is at stake, our country's economy is in the toilet, we are sending children with their whole future ahead of them to their deaths, and they want to make a big deal about whether or not the best chance our country has had since the bush saga began has loyalty come on… let's be real we are not that stupid!!!

MD   June 19th, 2008 1:38 pm ET

I feel so nostalgic whenever Obama talks. I remember MLK and JFK. I hope he is elected the president of this country, not only because the alternative is a THIRD term for the worst president in the history of this country, but also because Obama has shown flexibility, wisdom, and patience in the entire election process.

Battling Hilary Clinton and her barrage of negative ads, while tough to take at the time, was essentially what Obama needed to get ready for the general election.

Melinda Charlotte, NC   June 19th, 2008 1:38 pm ET

Barack Obama is a liar.He has been busted in several lies just this week. The Obama supporters are free to support whomever they please, but please open your eyes to what he says and how his actions speak. So far, not so good…

Turnabout is Fair Play   June 19th, 2008 1:38 pm ET

LOL! I love your handle there Gas and Oil Party (GOP)! ROFL! I call'em the Gross Old Perverts party myself..

Dirk   June 19th, 2008 1:37 pm ET

He shouldn't even have to waste people's money with an ad like this.

Voter turned 4 Obama   June 19th, 2008 1:36 pm ET

To the Hillary backers, or shall I say them Log Cabin Repugs. Gov.Sebelius and others have a better shot then Hillary. Sorry wake up, you'll are dreaming. This country have done the Clinton's and Bush's it time for a change a real change. And for the once that having problem with the gas price. The gas will drop very low when Bush is out of the White House. If you listen to what other country are saying about the problem and it not the Americans people it the Bush and McSane policy. The Kings in the Middle East told Bush to got to hell. And you can tell how other country think about the next guy, and if you look and listen stop being blind to the fact. That person isn't McSane. Look he can't remember what he said yesterday, is he C-Nile for real and his wife just have the sticky fingers. And I'm sorry but someone need to ask Cindy to take an drug test to make sure that she is off the drugs. Because the saying goes like this. Once and Crack Head Always an Crack Head!!!!!!!!!

Character Content Examination   June 19th, 2008 1:36 pm ET

From Barrak's own mouth in The Audacity of Hope:

"I was the beneficiary of unusually—and at times undeservedly—positive press coverage."

Eric in Ca   June 19th, 2008 1:34 pm ET

Love the Ad! Our Next President.
Obama 08!

John Smith   June 19th, 2008 1:34 pm ET

This woman, like some "blind and bitter" Hillary supporters, give Blond women a "bad name!"

The dictates and laws of God are bigger and better than the laws and rules of nations! Not everyone has and continues to be ALWAYS proud of America. I can never be proud of a nation that:
1. goes to war, and disrupts the lives of others in the name of …..
2. practices 'bigatory, racism, sexism…
3. has no regard for the poor and the weak…

There are alternative ways of serving a nation– teachers teach our youth on a daily basis; they are part of our present and future.

When Cindy MCain learns to speak "good English" and not "emotional language," maybe I might listen to her!

G   June 19th, 2008 1:33 pm ET

Because I love my nation, I criticize her leadership when it is in error. It's rather like a parent reprimanding and guiding the child, as opposed to being lazy and allowing the child to run rampant and unsupervised. Only neocons confuse criticism with being unpatriotic. Only neocons confuse patriotism with nationalism.

Generation X   June 19th, 2008 1:33 pm ET

Operation Chaos = PUMA (Poor uneducated miserable adults) and on ….1…2…3…4…5; Jan Fl, Brian TN, Jim PA, Stauch Clinton Supporter, CHAROLTTE, Belle and Karen FL and I forgot fred; Obama will never be President, write Hillary in, McCain if Hillary is not VP. Guess what you nuts….NOT THIS TIME!!!

Rob, Maryland   June 19th, 2008 1:33 pm ET

FEDUP wrotes @ June 19th, 2008 12:49 pm ET

For the first time in my adult life, a presidential nominee has had to advertise, he is patriotic?

============================

Yes, thanks to idiots like you who questions others patriotism, Obama has to emphasize his patriotism in a tv ad. If you were smart enough and you did not have a fish's memory, you'd recall McCain and his wife talking about their patriotism again and again.

Obamamaniac   June 19th, 2008 1:33 pm ET

Great spot! Great canidate! YES WE CAN!

Ula Nejad- Sacramento Ca   June 19th, 2008 1:33 pm ET

Jeeuz! not when you are seen around the world dressed up like an elder in some village in Kenya. I strongly believe that should other ethnic groups who feels so strong about representing their race should go and stand in their country of origin. It just makes more sense and less chaos.

Time to move on   June 19th, 2008 1:32 pm ET

What a fresh page.
OBAMA 08

fran from canada   June 19th, 2008 1:30 pm ET

Clinton/McCain, I guess Obama mother worked for it. Is there something wrong with having a education. Get over it

S. BOATMAN WARRENSBURG MO.   June 19th, 2008 1:30 pm ET

Much Better Than The Mccain Ad Talking About How Much He Loves War!

Swampy   June 19th, 2008 1:28 pm ET

AJ, Barack Obama's patriotism is of a type you seem incapable of understanding. It is not obligatory to accept this country the way it is– it's a patriotic right and obligation to try to make this country better than it is.

Try it sometime. Join us in working for a better America.

Obama/Clark '08 and beyond

Ted   June 19th, 2008 1:28 pm ET

Obama is another politician… he'll say anything to get elected.

Not   June 19th, 2008 1:27 pm ET

Guess where the troops will go from Iraq? Try Afganistan.
Guess what the changes will be? Socialist.
Guess where the check and balance will be with a dem pres a dem congress and dem judicial? NONE.
Guess how much you will be paying for gas in December. Try six bucks!
Nobama. No Mccain what is left? Nuttin!

Trish   June 19th, 2008 1:27 pm ET

To Clinton/McCain and Anna, OH: You need to get your facts straight before making snarky comments like this.

Obama's mother had him when she was 18 or 19. It took her decades of working while in school part-time to get that PhD while raising her children without their father. I call that determination and not giving up. Luckily, she had the help of her parents in Hawaii, who moved there by the way because her father was a WWII veteran. No, they didn't have much money at all — the only reason Barack could go to Punahou high school, Occidental College and Columbia was on scholarship and student loans, just like everyone else.

And no, Barack and Michelle didn't have much money until his book "Audacity of Hope" became a best-seller several years ago. That book paid off their considerable student loans from law school — before that, they forwent good-paying jobs to work in public service. When Barack was a state legislator in Illinois, he also worked as a Constitutional Law professor at UI Chicago. Not the best-paying jobs.

The Obamas have just about the greatest American story I have ever heard. They are real and they are just what we need right now.

Chut Pata   June 19th, 2008 1:27 pm ET

To "Clinton/McCain": You wonder how come Obama's mother was not rich despite having a Phd. As a member of a family full of Phds, I know how much they make depending on their subject. I, a simple Bachelor in Computer Science is making many times more than some of them. One is driving a cab to make a living!!!

wisdom   June 19th, 2008 1:26 pm ET

We're with you Randy and Fedup!

HRC for life   June 19th, 2008 1:26 pm ET

These ads better devote enough time to recognize Hillary and all her work and experience she has. She deserves ad space time too!!

Loyal HRC follower

Anita from Arizona   June 19th, 2008 1:25 pm ET

Democrats only got the majority for two years, but Republicans held it a lot longer than that, so make sure your facts are straight before you lay blame.

Cheap shots will get the GOP and it's supporters nowhere this time. Change we can believe in.

RyVA   June 19th, 2008 1:25 pm ET

I think the top of every posting section should come with the following guide:

your = a possessive term, "I have your book"
you're = single affirming verb / form of 'to be', "You're learning how to read"

there = location, "I want to go over there"
their = possessive, "I have their addresses"
they're = group affirming verb / form of 'to be', "They're going to the market"

Dear America - please learn to read and write.

Citizen Can   June 19th, 2008 1:24 pm ET

Works for me-
I'd rather see this ad than McCain in half-shadow, looking like senator Palpatine

Robert   June 19th, 2008 1:24 pm ET

Clinton/McCain. You just proved your ignorance. "His Mother had a PhD" means they had a lot of money> She was a teacher. Teachers with PHD usually don't make much money unless they sell books. Obviously you don't have a PhD yourself.

Ex-mod-GOP for Obama   June 19th, 2008 1:24 pm ET

Obama displays a much more mature love of country than most right-wingers and their shallow puppy love.

And, by the way, in response to a previous comment, his mother went on to earn a PhD in anthropology. I guarantee you she wasn't rolling in dough. Several members of my family have PhDs (in genetics and in art history) and none of them make much money.

PhD does not equal money   June 19th, 2008 1:24 pm ET

Hey Clinton/McCain: Perhaps you do not know any PhDs, especially those in the social sciences and/or Arts in Humanities, and that is why you said what you said. I am getting my PhD in International Studies, will be $200k in debt and will max out at $80k teaching at a university. Check out the stats on education v. income ratio when it comes to having a doctorate. You'll be surprised. That being said, I wish people would stop speaking about which they know very little.

Lloyd Bentson   June 19th, 2008 1:23 pm ET

How about an ad featuring that young wipper-snapper of a v.p. I debated: Dan Quayle…he may not know how to spell potatoe, but he has some gumshun…

Lloyd

Anton   June 19th, 2008 1:23 pm ET

One word: CRAP

rick-philly   June 19th, 2008 1:23 pm ET

Anna, he is talking about when he was a child. He didn't make $1 million as a child. i think it is you who is out of touch.

And his mother has a PHD in anthropolgy, not exactley a great paying job.

Mary   June 19th, 2008 1:22 pm ET

Look at the ticker titles —- ALL Obama - No McCain. I am voting for Obama — but why can't we hear both sides?????

Bayou Joe   June 19th, 2008 1:21 pm ET

Show me the legislation that he has sponsored that benefits families and soldiers. Where and when, He has been in Congress less than 2 years. Started campaigning 2 week after he got there.

Just say no to Obama. Your country will be better off.

LAPEL   June 19th, 2008 1:20 pm ET

The fact Obama wouldnt wear his LAPEL pin in congress. Shows he is not patriotic to our county.

Monte - Ex Democrat   June 19th, 2008 1:20 pm ET

If you have to advertise that you are patriotic, something is wrong. Who are you trying to convince? Your kool-aid drinkers? Or just the poor dumb people that you are trying to con out of more money so you and Michelle can make over your imagine? If you love America, you prove it by your actions and deeds, not words. What great service has Obama done for thiscountry? Spend time in the Illinois Senate at taxpayers expense, then move on to the US Senate, again on tax payers dime. Now he wants more tax payers money to provide public housing? Give me a break! Serve you country, join the military, peace corps or something useful!

Chut Pata   June 19th, 2008 1:20 pm ET

Patriotism needs to be defined. Is a person who leads country to war and the ultimate destruction economy a patriot? Is a person who, despite his young age, envisions the results of the war and opposes it unpatriotic?

Jackson, OK   June 19th, 2008 1:19 pm ET

It's not patriotic to exclude one group of Americans over another group of Americans. We want a country who will not judge people by the "color of their skin, but by the content of their character". Dr. King's Dream WILL be a reality in November of 2008, and I can't wait to see that dream come true.

Thank you Barack for making this presidential election an easy one for me. Do I want a man who is chomping at the bit to take us into another war, or do I want a man who wants to sit down and talk about resolving conflict? I want a grown-up. I want Barack Obama to be my president, and I can't wait to vote for him. November will be life-changing and I'm showing up for the transformation of the American Politic.

Obama, my next president.

Dustin   June 19th, 2008 1:18 pm ET

Jean. It seems to me that most of the Hillary and McCain supporters are the uninformed. I have followed Obama since I read an article in Time two years ago, so I feel rather well informed on the campaign. I watched every debate, both Democrat and Republican, so I feel rather well informed. I will be voting Obama in the general.

Angel for Obama   June 19th, 2008 1:18 pm ET

Sounds like a great Ad the Obama camp cameout with look fwd to watch it here in VA.

"Obama 08 enough said"

Joe Regis   June 19th, 2008 1:18 pm ET

Obama will bring prosperity back to american families.

He will end government deficits and bring fiscal responsibility back.

Obama will end the war and bring the troups back with success.

Obama 08 &12.

Rose - Baltimore, MD   June 19th, 2008 1:18 pm ET

Good job. We need more ads

U-S-hooray   June 19th, 2008 1:18 pm ET

Obama's campaign theme:

"Let's bring positive change to this great country."

McCain's campaign theme:

"You all should be frightened of Senator Obama's wife. She's evil, evil, evil!"

JB   June 19th, 2008 1:17 pm ET

Go Barrack. Stop the Neocons.

Shelly in IL   June 19th, 2008 1:15 pm ET

I SEE WHY HE HAS TO RUN THIS AD!

NO LAPEL PIN   June 19th, 2008 1:14 pm ET

Obama wouldnt wear his required patriotic PIN in congress. Also he accomplished nothing in congress. I have not seen any patrotism yet from him or any of his follwers. He has many al queda suppoters on his payroll now.

Emma, San Jose, CA   June 19th, 2008 1:14 pm ET

In the minds of the voters for Obama, there was never clear evidence that he was not patriotic. Ana what's a flag lapel pin got to do with it?

Mike   June 19th, 2008 1:14 pm ET

Love it!!!

Obama = Let's make this country better.

McCain = Let's keep things exactly the way they are.

Now people love and support Obama so much that he doesn't have to dip from the public well.

What a great time to be alive! A change is coming, and the sour-cons can't stop the steamroller that is Obama!

ninetyfivepercent like bush   June 19th, 2008 1:13 pm ET

At least Obama was born in the USA.
Unlike some!!

Belle2   June 19th, 2008 1:12 pm ET

Just one more of his lies! How gullible does he think the American voters are—but then look at all the hero worship. Maybe he is right. After all 59M people voted for Bush in 2004—after it was clear that he had justified war with lies.

Tony, Miami   June 19th, 2008 1:12 pm ET

Clinton/Mccain :"His mother had a Phd"
So what he never said his mother was uneducated. Lot of people have Phd or else and sometimes when applying for a job because you need the money badly, your application can be declined with the mention "over qualified" for the job.
By the way Obama I love your ad.

Phillip   June 19th, 2008 1:12 pm ET

And why shouldn't he?

As much as the Republicans would like us all to "blacklist" their opponents as unpatriotic because they aren't wearing a lapel pin or something, this simply won't hold up. The American people are (marginally) smarter than that; they can tell that Obama really does love his country, despite the ugly picture that the GOP will continue to paint of him.

Character Content Examination   June 19th, 2008 1:12 pm ET

"That’s why I pas_sed laws moving people from welfare to work, cut taxes for working families and extended health care for wounded troops who’d been neglected. "

In what parallel universe did this happen? He hasn't had a single one of the bills he sponsored be voted on, much less actually get voted into law.

Venus   June 19th, 2008 1:12 pm ET

YES WE CAN!

Way to go Bam! This is what I been waiting for! Steppin it up and taking it to the next level!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I can't wait for him to be president!

Bring our troops home from Iraq and get this country we love on a better track!

John from LA   June 19th, 2008 1:11 pm ET

To FEDUP-

Great comment!!!-why does BO need to say this??-

"Great Values"-Obama-having your daughters sit in Rev. Wrongs church-kids are VERY smart and will repeat what they hear-great family values!

A very skeptical Ind.

michelle   June 19th, 2008 1:11 pm ET

P H O N E Y….sorry, I just can't buy this.

ls   June 19th, 2008 1:09 pm ET

Spoken like a Strong-Spirited-American. Way to go Obama!!

Too bad McCain and his supporters won't understand the meaning of this message.

Obama '08
:o}

Joe Six   June 19th, 2008 1:09 pm ET

After 8 years of Bush, Dumacrats are willing to believe anything to have one of their own in the White House. All I hear from Dumacrats is McSame, McSame, McSame. For Dumacrats, this election is not about principle or policy, it is simply about winning, no matter what. Given the problems McCain is having with Conservatives, Obama will do it.

Sharon Kitchen   June 19th, 2008 1:09 pm ET

Yes.

Brenda of Saginaw ,Michigan   June 19th, 2008 1:08 pm ET

You know what is sad?. The United States is in a really bad way along comes this "black man" who thinks he can repair what is broken.Yes, he has a hard life but do you truly think that here in this racial divided country will give him a chance? ( I hope so).We are Americans. So when it comes to filling out applications and they ask what race are you please put american,not black,white , native american or whatever. Just put "AMERICAN".

LET IT GO   June 19th, 2008 1:07 pm ET

His has a great story, Please people let him tell it and you be suprise how much Barack and Michelle story is just like ours.

Romulus, Michigan   June 19th, 2008 1:07 pm ET

Refreshing, thanks Senator Obama.

Janice, MS   June 19th, 2008 1:07 pm ET

This is not about Barack, it is about the millions of people who want to see him win. So if he has to change his mind in order to raise more money so that he can win–so be it.

Not only is he making history with his fundraising, but he is making history with this historical campaign. By the way, who are those guys? David and David are doing a great job. I've never seen anything like it, not with Hillary, not with Dean. Barack is breaking records and we're so excited.

We want to win in November and Barack is the man to do it.

Obama 08, you've got millions of voters behind you. We are with you, press on.

Bridgette-PA   June 19th, 2008 1:06 pm ET

I just asked my husband last night "When is Barack going to release his first campaign ad already?". Barack must have heard me!

OBAMA / SEBELIUS -08/12!

ProundToBeADemocrat   June 19th, 2008 1:06 pm ET

MY advice to Democrats Rasmussen Poll is desgined to make conservative look good, they post a false Poll with Mccain ahead of Obama please do not fall for that kind of crap.

Rick in NYC   June 19th, 2008 1:05 pm ET

Thank you, Mr. President!

"Nothing is more powerful than an idea whose time has come." - Victor Hugo

Tom   June 19th, 2008 1:04 pm ET

Great ad!!!!

We believe in you!

Brian Knoxville TN   June 19th, 2008 1:04 pm ET

Lately, a lot of people have been using my name to post false messages. I just want to put this circus to rest and voice my true views unequivocally.

We (PUMA morons) have sent letters to the DNC from 26 states. We have protested the fact that Obama blocked revoting in FL and MI (oh wait! Obama camp offerred to split votes with Clinton EVEN THOUGH Clinton herself said "FL and MI will not be counted!" when it suited her).

We have protested that the DNC has disenfrenchenansized (i cant spell, whatever) millions of voters by not giving the delegates to the popular vote winner in caucus states (keep in mind that we NEVER objected to this practice until THIS election, ONLY WHEN when it became a problem for Hillary. Of course, all the caucus votes in Obama's favor never counted anyway. Its only Hillary supporters who can be disenfrenchenansized).

We also protested the media's constant sexism and belittling (now the media didn't EVER use the monica lewinsky scandal or clinton's underhanded business deals or whitewater and beat the Rev. Wright issue to death, but whatever)…

Finally, we believe that ALL the DNC officials and ALL the superdelegates and ALL the 18 Million who voted for Obama are IDIOTS! Only we are sensible, we are the only ones who are right, and we are the only ones who should be heard.

Go PUMA! McCain '08. Woohoo!

Eli   June 19th, 2008 1:04 pm ET

You better think before voting for this con artist. The Obamas have several closets of skeletons and we have seen some that should have scared people but his main supporters are going along with them because they believe the stuff his church of twenty years teach and the college students are not watching the news and dont even know whats going on.

Empty suit, empty promises   June 19th, 2008 1:03 pm ET

Do strong values include pointing out TWO Muslim woman from a group and not allow them to be in a picture?

What if McCain did this to two BLACK woman, PAGE one, STORY one, for DAYS and he would be DONE.

So the great man of the people who is proud of his country will not take questions from PEOPLE around the country in townhall debates, instead he will take the softball questions from his "flock of pundts" that adore him?

Sorry if I seem bitter and clinging to something other than your every word.

No problem though, as after you lose in November, I will "for the first time in my adult life, I will be REALLY proud of my country" for not electing this fraud into office.

All I have to say to you Barack H Obama is so long "sweetie".

chevy   June 19th, 2008 1:02 pm ET

Im digging this man

Yes.We.Can.   June 19th, 2008 1:02 pm ET

I like it. Teaches the truth about his background to counter all the lies that are flying around.

jp/michigan   June 19th, 2008 1:01 pm ET

I believe honesty is also a strong value. Well, with in the last 24 hours , I have read that you decided NAFTA is not so bad. After calling NAFTA devastating and a big mistake, to the people of Ohio, Pennsylvania, Michigan. I have read that you stated you will not take public financing , after stating you would.

Student for OBAMA 08!!!   June 19th, 2008 1:01 pm ET

Great Ad. This country needs to be reminded of old fashioned family values.

OBAMA 08!!!

silas   June 19th, 2008 1:01 pm ET

great great great news for the campaign. We cud take Georgia and Virginia maybe North Dakota

Susan, VT   June 19th, 2008 1:01 pm ET

My name is Ms. American Voter, and I approve Barack's message.

Go Barack, I'll be voting for you, and your patriotic wife (Michelle) in November.

The Obamas, an American family, too.

Obama 08

Enlightened Voter -   June 19th, 2008 12:59 pm ET

Obama is a Harvard Educated Constitutional Law Scholar, spent 4 yrs in Illinois senate and 2 yrs as US Senator. He's sponsored dozens of bills in the senate and is a tireless worker. He has shown brilliance in this campaign and sound judgement. Obama, this ad doesn't win me over, you've already had my vote and you'll never lose it.

Florida John   June 19th, 2008 12:59 pm ET

The sad part is that he has to spend money to convince people he is Patrotic. That usually means he has some issues somewhere…….

Thomas   June 19th, 2008 12:59 pm ET

"The Obama campaign said the ad will air Friday in Alaska, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Iowa, Indiana, Michigan, Missouri, Montana, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Mexico, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Wisconsin, and Virginia."

"If your not on this list I don't care, I already have your vote - Obama"

Patrick   June 19th, 2008 12:59 pm ET

I like the choice of states to air this ad. Everyone of them are winnable.

Maddie, NY   June 19th, 2008 12:58 pm ET

Hey, when's it going to air in California. I can't wait to see it.

I know Barack and Michelle are patriotic and all the GOP pundits will have a hard time convincing the American people that they are not.

I noticed that whenever they talk about Michelle's statement, they conveniently leave out the word "really". She said this was the first time in a long time she was "really" proud of her country. And she meant that politically.

The Obamas have my vote, and I can't wait. In fact my friends and I are having a voting party in November. We will vote, and then meet for drinks and watch the returns. I can not wait, I can not wait.

Obama 08 and 12

Independant   June 19th, 2008 12:58 pm ET

Still doesnt make me fall at your feet….Still love McCain, the only true american running for president.

John and Cindy 08

Tony   June 19th, 2008 12:57 pm ET

Indiana is a perennial swing state? Tell me, please, when is the last time Indiana showed up in the 'blue' column for a president? I'll be voting for Obama in Indiana in November, but I won't expect him to be able to carry my ignorant state.

Sergio   June 19th, 2008 12:57 pm ET

Obama should send a copy of that video to his former church (i.e., Trinity et al) and sit with them and play it over and over… or even better enroll himself in a workshop on patriotism run by McCain. Viva the U S A !!!!!!!!!

David S., CA   June 19th, 2008 12:57 pm ET

I like the positive messages of elections, hope it continues

Tonya, Richmond, VA   June 19th, 2008 12:56 pm ET

I love Obama, I really do, but with all these posts about Obama it's pretty clear who CNN is for.

lmao

Let me check out FOX because you know their are biased as two rednecks.

Gas And Oil Party (GOP)   June 19th, 2008 12:56 pm ET

Good One. I hope this will be well received

go away mongers-Ventura ca   June 19th, 2008 12:55 pm ET

All the hate and fear tactics that worked against Kerry WILL NOT WORK THIS TIME- so the republiCANT Hate Machine might as well fold it up and take it somewhere else!
YES, WE CAN. YES, WE WILL.

obamabot   June 19th, 2008 12:55 pm ET

of course,barack obama is more patriotic than any republicans.he doesnt want our military being killed in illegal wars.mcbush wants to see how many more are killed or injured,in iraq,and if elected,he'll send our troops into iran,next.

independent chris   June 19th, 2008 12:54 pm ET

Given that I love my country, I am apt to criticize this country my often, just as I am apt to criticize my family whom I love. We all do this because we care. If we didn't, we wouldn't bother. Those who say that our country (or families) are above criticism are not patriotic; they are, in fact, liars out for themselves.

Obama is a great American.

Independent   June 19th, 2008 12:54 pm ET

Why don't you emphasize on your change in position of public financing? I'm sure you don't want the millions donated to your campaign from the Casinos.

Lynn   June 19th, 2008 12:53 pm ET

.. and that's why the country loves him.

Brendan H., San Antonio, TX   June 19th, 2008 12:52 pm ET

One of the most patriotic things a person can do is be in public service.

And being Commander-In-Chief of the Armed Forces is about as high on patriotism as one can go, no?!?!

ALLBAMALLTHETIME   June 19th, 2008 12:52 pm ET

YAY BAM BAM!!! YOU TELL 'EM!

Obama 08 & '12   June 19th, 2008 12:52 pm ET

BARACK OBAMA!!! THE TRUE AMERICAN. LETS DO THIS!!!

AMERICANS FOR CHANGE

James, SC   June 19th, 2008 12:52 pm ET

Got my vote!!

Anna, OH   June 19th, 2008 12:51 pm ET

Haha…yes just like you're wife said, on $1 million plus salary, you guys are still so poor, you can't afford piano and dance lessons. Out of touch much?

Jim   June 19th, 2008 12:51 pm ET

Good start guys but a lot of the people who are unsure will be mainly looking for substance! Try to focus your next ads on substance, have one on healthcare, another on education, I've heard great idea's from Mr. Obama on education, have ad's on substance issues but focus on details, not just that you will do it without saying how, give example's of how he will do what he plans to do, his idea's, etc, goodluck Mr. Obama, I hope some of the campaign people read this!

Dj   June 19th, 2008 12:51 pm ET

You GO Barack!

Clinton/McCain   June 19th, 2008 12:51 pm ET

"I was raised by a single mom and my grandparents. We didn’t have much money"

Didn't have much money? His mother had a PhD!

Jean NYC   June 19th, 2008 12:50 pm ET

Obama is so full of himself. I've never seen a candidate that is so transparent, but yet tolerated by uninformed and/or neglectful voters.

I guess Americans rather tolerate our country's downfall, rather than see it excel.

We have democratic majorities in both houses. How is America better? Answer: It isn't.

AJ   June 19th, 2008 12:50 pm ET

Yeah, for anyone who buys into the Obama family's patriotism, I can give you a good deal on the Brooklyn Bridge…

Cynthia   June 19th, 2008 12:49 pm ET

Love the commercial

FEDUP   June 19th, 2008 12:49 pm ET

For the first time in my adult life, a presidential nominee has had to advertise, he is patriotic?

RANDY   June 19th, 2008 12:49 pm ET

HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA HAHAHAHAHAHA

WOW I CAN'T STOP LAUGHING!

American   June 19th, 2008 12:49 pm ET

Go Pres. Obama….we love you and is with you all the way!!

Obama '08!

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