It will be funny to see bambi duck and cover from liberal positions this fall….
He's being defined as we speak, he wont know what hit him.

Hillary !!

Obama changes his mind more than McCain. I don't trust Obama. He will not get my vote. McCain 08

WHEN THINGS CHANGE SO SHOULD VIEWS. THE ABILITY TO RAISE MILLIONS BY THE HUNDREADS VIA TINY DONATIONS WAS NOT SOMETHING THAT HE COULD HAVE PREDICTED. IF THERE IS A LAW THAT SAYS HE CANT THAT WOULD BE ONE THING, BUT TO CUT OFF YOUR CASH TO MAKE THE OTHER GUY HAPPY WOULD BE FOOLISH.

I guess Hillary and her "bitter" Clinton supporters need Obama (and supporters) more than Obama needs Hillary..

Obama can win those battle-ground DEM states without the help of Hillary.

Hillary needs the help of Obama to pay her sagging bills, loans etc. This is how terribly Hillary managed her campaign. I guess Hillary and her bitter followers need to beg Obama to come their help!!!

Bottom line, call on McCain to help retire Hillary's debts, loans…!

I don't think there is anything wrong with a politician changes his views or admits that they were wrong, as long as the situation calls for it.

I mean isn't the problem with Iraq that our leaders have refused to change their views and allow us to just sit there instead of pressing the Iraqis to handle some of the reform by begining a troop withdrawl?

This simply goes to show that Obama is not to be trusted.
Clearly the DNC bet on the wrong horse.

Wolf you Nailed it. How came a politician cannot say they have had a change of heart. Be honest and Upfront with the American People. It is time for the truth and time for the politicians to be honest with us.

Wolf, I agree with you 100%. "I changed my mind' is not a crime. That is really what happened

I guess Hillary and her "bitter" Clinton supporters need Obama (and supporters) more than Obama needs Hillary..

Obama can win those battle-ground DEM states without the help of Hillary.

Hillary needs the help of Obama to pay her sagging bills, loans etc. This is how terribly Hillary managed her campaign. I guess Hillary and her bitter followers need to beg Obama to come their help!!!

Bottom line, call on McCain to help retire Hillary's debts, loans…!

There is nothing wrong with people who change their minds… as long as they're honest about it. If they admit that they got new information that made them change their minds, it's fine. But the current candidates are just plain dishonest. Kerry's flip-flops in 2004 look like straight-talk compared to what Obama and McCain are putting us through right now.

I've got a great way to sum this up that proves that a politician changing their mind is a great thing. Let's pretend for a moment that there is a politician who's for putting babies on spikes. Horrifying I know, but stick with me…would you rather he keep that position so we can say "Ahh at least he's not a flip flopper" or would it not be better for him to change his mind after seeing evidence that putting babies on spikes is a bad idea? Personally I'd rather have a guy/girl who stands up and says, "I know I was for babies on spikes, but now…not so much. Looks like I made an error in judgment."

In this country we are always about learning and taking in new ideas. If we didn't change out minds, then we'd still have blood letting as a form of healing the sick. Robert Bird and Strom Thurmand would both have stuck with the KKK rather then leaving the group.

Come on people, fess up when you change your mind and explain why. As for the rest of us, we change our minds daily over if we should be milk or gas, so let the folks in government do the same. We're human for Christ sake, not demigods.

He signed and agreed to this months ago, and now he "CHANGE"s his mind…
just as he said so many things along the campaign trail, and has now "CHANGE"d his mind…
Is this the CHANGE we are supposed to believe in????
At least he is keeping that promise to CHANGE all the stances he ran his primary campaign on…I'm sure many wish they could CHANGE the wool that's covering their eyes.
As his good friend said - "he is a politician and says what a politician has to say". You can't CHANGE that statement.

The problem isn't that they change their mind. The problem is that most politicians change their mind for the wrong reasons. Or they really aren't changing their mind, they're lying to us.

VotePact

** Nader/Gonzalez 2008 **

well, of course it's okay for obama to change his mind, but if anyone else does, they're flip-flopping. just like he accused mccain of today on his stance on offshore drilling.

obama keeps calling mccain gas tax holiday a gimmick (i don't agree with the holiday either), but then why did obama vote for a gas tax holiday three times when he was in the state senate? the same state senate he only got into because he disqualified all of his opponents. talk about someone willing to do anything to win, just like he is now.

Changing views based on new information is called learning. Changing views while pretending to be consistent is called lying. For further clarification on lying and examples of lies see: Obama, McCain, presidential campaign 2008.

yep! now that they have their man in the run for president….they're going to make excuses and give him and open door to change his platform and time slots for leaving iraq and his new stance on not taking public funding after he a while back said he would….hillary clinton never would have gotten this kind of a free ride by the media…obama is slowly sheding his coat of many colors….

Because what it really comes down to is you're Damm if you do and Damm if you don't.

No matter which way he chose there are going to be haters on both sides of the fence.

In the end Senator Obama did what was best for his campaign and that's the kind of leadership that in the end will do what's best for this country.

I think people are worried that he will change his mind about "CHANGE" …

It depends on when and how far the candidate goes. If the Obama campaign, going forward, has decided to ask the American people to trust his judgement, rather than his campaign promises, they will lose the voters that don't know him well enough or question his judgement in other areas they already know about…like all the questionable characters in his past, his 'present' votes in the IL senate, the remarks he's been caught making (i.e. bitter people that cling to God guns out of their frustrations). Voters trust people whose past record is known to them as a way of gauging how that candidate might make decisions in the future…Obama has no record to speak of. This dilema is all the more perplexing then, because experienced voters know better than to trust campaign promises that they know will meet hugh resistance in the Congress. Wil he just change his mind to suit himself and go whichever way the wind blows? Looks like it to me.

Makes sense, but when someone has millions of people that follow their original ideas, the people dont want to have to change their views (ironic I know) to continue supporting that person. Noone wants to change their views based on how that politician is feeling that morning.

I wish you would say this more on the air, Wolf-

And honestly? A politician that admits when he or she is wrong and works towards correcting their mistakes? That's FAR more productive than going down with the ship on principle

A concept totally lost on the war-crazed senator from Arizona

well, obama used to his political advantange months, even a year ago, to differentiate himself from the "same old washington." and how he didn't want politics being affected by money and special interests. he even promised to use public financing. but of course, now that it benefits him…

this man is so full of b.s. i don't want our tax payer money to pay for this stuff, but it's that or private interests. the point his he went back on his word. he didn't "change his mind" and realize that the public financing is a bad thing, he's just doing what benefits him the most.

we see your true colors, obama.

Changing your mind is a necessary tool for intelligent people. So is admitting when you're wrong.

America is ready for a politican with both of these qualities. Obama is the first one we've seen in a long time.

It seems like the candidate is just going with the political winds to be popular and win. The inconsistancy makes people worry that the candidate isn't going to stick to his or her guns and princples when the time is needed to do so.

He had GOOD reason to believe that Caney-Cane will engage in back-handed financial arson and he's staging a preemptive strike against his underhanded behuind. I think that it is foresight at its best!

Wolf:

Nothing is wrong with a politician who evolves and see another view, in the corporate world its called thinking outside the box. Now a politician who doesn't recall conversations and changes his mind in drastically in the same week in the corporate world would be retired.

I listen to conservative radio to keep up on what the other guys are saying. Hugh Hewitt (sp?) kept on and kept on calling Obama a liar and hanging up on his supporters who would not say he lied.

It was a joke. This is the best decision for democrats and I hope that all of the real democrats can see that.

I would like to see the "public money" allocated to the people who are in desperate need after the floods that are destroying the central part of our country.

You're right. He should have said that he changed his mind.I will continue to support him anyway.

Obama the empty suit, empty-headed ultra Liberal racist elitist Messiah of the New Black Revolution does not know what any of his policies are so it's no surprise when we hear conflicting comments come from him. It is the press who calls his waffling "change", and it likely takes Obama by surprise that no-one bothers to challenge anything he says. American will get what it pays for with this man: big trouble.

What this says is, we cannot believe anything politicians tell us, because their positions may and will change. They will keep playing word games with voters.

Bottom line, just look to history to see what each party's policies have been, and chances are, that's what you can expect from their candidates.

However, Bush is a aberration, so his terms can be discounted. And since we have no idea who Obama really is, we have to be more wary of him.

Politicians always change their views. Look at all the flip-flopping we've had over the past 7 1/2 years.

For every finger being pointed at someone else, there is two being pointed back at you. (You would think they would get it already).

Nothing's wrong with a candidate changing his/her views. It's wrong that they lie about why they're changing their actions. Obama didn't keep his word and lie about it.

Politicians always change their views. Look at all the flip-flopping we've had over the past 7 1/2 years.

For every finger being pointed at someone else, there is two being pointed back at you. (You would think they would get it already).

Glaring omission in making no mention of the McFlip-flops of McBush in this analysis of "mind changing" and its consequences. McCain has raised reversing position to suit the needs of his campaign to an art form. The end result of Obama's opting out of public financing is that for the first time we can be REALLY proud of our campaign financing because it will, for the first time, be REALLY public.

Tell it like it is Wolf! Obama DID change his mind AND lied about it. He's not bringing any change to the White House. He also lies and cheats just to get elected!

Nothing is wrong with changing your mind, if you are not running for president against a republican. They seem to think that changing your course of action is a failure instead of wisdom, look how many lives were lost in Iraq before they changed their stategy. Shameful, but they critize DEMs for "flip flopping" on issues that do not involve taking lives.

I think Obama is somewhat afraid to say he changed his mind due to all the flack he took early on in the primary, they keep saying he is inexperienced; so he feels he cannot change his course while running for President. But we all know that he will win and use his judgement to bring America back on the playing field financially and militarily.

GO OBAMA '08

Well Wolf, it goes to the issue of trust. Politicians are unique creatures in that we elect them based on past deeds and future promises. The problem with changing their mind is in how they do it. Say for instance I support candidate A who runs on a platform of getting out of iraq quickly and supporting alternate energy sources. Now, after I've voted for him and he's elected, he 'changes his mind' because its just too hard to accomplish either of those things. Now I'm stuck with a guy who is explicitly not doing he promised he would do for me. Thats called bait and switch. Hence, I the voter have been betrayed in my trust for the candidate.

Its ok to change your mind if you can reasonably prove that your decision was wrong. Many democrats who voted for the war have since learned that they were mislead and are regretful of their vote. Thats ok. But when a politician changes their mind for the pure purposes of political expiediency, especially when they have promised otherwise, and their only justfication is a lame excuse about what the other side might do, well thats a problem.

Barack ran and won on a platform of being different. Now he is breaking his promise because its inconvienient to keep his word. Why should I trust him on any other issue?

To answer your question, I ask you a question: what is wrong with someone who follows the 'norm' Wolf? The norm of politics has become to change your views as they suit you. Sometimes the politicians view change turns out bad for the people and sometimes good.

Had President Bush and especially Cheney and Rumsfeld changed their views on Iraq, it would been a good for our country and the world.

Wolf,
There are too many loopholes in the system as it now works.
Remember when Kerry was running all the money that was
spent by the RNC on horrible ads? Until this is addressed
in the reform bill I cannot blame anyone for not trusting it.
Public financing should be what amount is allowed for
campaigning and nothing else. We do not ever again need
Carl Rove tactics in our presidential or any race.

Nothing. But going back on your word to the American people - that's something else entirely.

On his decision not to accept public financing, Obama has broken a promise he made earlier, and in my opinion he cannot be trusted on other issues that he has taken.

Wolf, why don't you bring up McCain changing his mind about off-shore drilling because the cost of gas going from $1.50 to $4.00+ warrants the change?

CNN is cheerleading so hard for Obama it's pathetic. Why can't you look at yourself and at least attempt to keep some level of objectivity?

I think it's a by-product of the 2004 election. Bush and his goons labeled Kerry as a flip-flopper and that was their entire attact line, and it worked to a good degree. Regardless of wha Obama does that won't be effective witht he GOP this year because McCain has Obama beat 5 to 1 in terms of flipping on issues. To a degree I thnk it is silly because there's no one on earth who doesn't change their minds about things. No ones perfect…not even the POTUS.

CNN–Blatant defense of someone who cannot take a stand or a view and stay with it.

Pitiful

well, u might have a point. although i dont think his decision was a mistake or should be considered flip-flopping, i do however, feel he shoul have worded his change of mind differently. even if the system IS broken, he should have jus went about it less bothersome and more enthustiasctic about choosing a wiser option for winning the presidency in november. however, his intentions in mentioning the "bokeness" of the system might have been to further spread his "message" of change and make it a little more obvious for those who dont know about these matters- to sort of remind the voters that he is not for lobbyist and big corporations.

anyhow…. he has made the best choice possible, more power to him!!

YES WE CAN!!
Obama 08-12

Public financing is broken in the sense that it's just not enough money to compete with corporate-run 527 groups. If you could shutter the 527 groups out of the campaign process, then it would be a more fair system. I would take issue with Obama's decision if he was funded by PACs and corporate special interests, but he's not. Obama is funded by the same people that fund the public finance organization, so it should be a non-issue with ordinary American citizens. Heck, I'll send Obama another $100 just to spite Russ Feingold!

Obama has a right to change his mind especially if he thinks the system to be broken. McCain has changed his mind several times on some other issues (and lately on drilling for hydrocarbons on "holy ground"). What America needs is a President that can solve its problems, and not campaign finance laws that create new problems.

Obama is honest and that is more than we can say for mcwar. He is entitled to change his mind, we all do it constantly. But this isn't a policy change or something that will effect american people negatively, he just saved us 84 million dollars.

I wonder what other things he will change his mind about ???????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????

Nothing would be wrong with it If both sides would agree not to criticize the other for it. Sorry, I know that my comment is not realistic , Wolf.

Not a thing Wolf. Senator Obama is doing what he feels is best for his campaign and it saves money as well for others who can't do as well as he has done. John McCain has changed his mind so many times until I have to really think hard to remember where he stands on an issue.

Obama is a liar!!!!!!!!! I will NEVER vote for him! This country needs him as far away from the white house as possible.

Can you get another picture of Wolf up here? That one does not make him distinguished. He looks lost.

Having this ability is exactly why I think Malcolm X is one of the most heroic figures in American politics. (and I'm a white guy born in '68)

Unfortunately Malcolm's mind changing got him killed in the end, but still… it's a quality I wish these politicians possessed.

Nothing!!!!

Only a non-thinker remains with the same view. It only means he's opened to other sides- whether or not a view as been stated. I mean, don't we need a leader that thinks… after 7 years of a non-thinker. come on, people- open your mind!

Dem '08

There is nothing wrong with a politician changing his views so long as there is a reason for the change. Obviously, facts change, experience teaches and personal values mature. Indeed, changing ones views on an issue may be a positive thing, a sign of intellectual honesty and maturity. However, what I and most people I know resent is a politician whose views seem to change based on what audience s(he) is addressing or the direction of the prevailing political winds. I think politicians owe us an explanation of why their views have changed. The mature voters will understand, particularly if there is a good reason; the partisan won't care.

Politician also Human being, If they change their views come forward and explain to public
When they don’t explain then we don’t believe them,
Really I miss Hillary, We know about her but we don’t much about Obama When he changes his mind its hard to believe him
So I decide to vote for Mc Cain

Nothing as long as it is for the good of the people and not some pandering gimmick.

I completely agree. I never understood when people would say, "even though a politician belives such in such now, ten years ago they were not, so don't trust them!" Politicians should not be afraid to change. Eliminating the ability to change their views eliminates their ability to grow.

I agree, Wolf. I thought the same thing during Kerry's 2004 run, when all I heard from anyone was "he's a flip-flopper". I didn't get it. What was the big deal? So he changed his mind. I change my mind every day. Isn't it better to have a president who is flexible? A president who can realize when there is a better option out there and go for it? Isn't it better to have a president who's not afraid of change, but embraces it?

But maybe that's too much for some voters. Maybe there are still too many people out there who think going down with the ship is better than getting on one that's not sinking.

He has not changed his mind. He is for public funding reform that works. Can't have this with 527's. McCain isn't playing fair. Serves the RNC right. GO OBAMA

An hisorian recently said that Abraham Lincoln was once questioned about why he changed his mind on a certain policy and he said that he changed his mind because he knew more now about the subject than he originally did.
Certainly we know more now than we did when the decision to invade Iraq was made. So politicians should always admit that they changed their mind because they learned more about the subject.

as long as it is Obama and not Hillary changing her mind, the media is all for it….. Not much on the old Ticker about Obama changing his mind on NAFTA , I just wonder what else he will be changing his mind on, if and when he is on office…….

We've had a stubborn imbecile in power for the past eight years eho prides himself on NOT changing his mind! We'd all be a lot better off with some flexibility!

WAY TO GO OBAMA….of course u are entitled to change ur mind……I am sure his actions make sense….GO OBAMA…THE WORLD NEED U……

Politicians who refuse to change their mind about issues when faced with facts that show them to be wrong, such as Hillary Clinton and Bush, look even worse. People can't expect any presidential candidate to know all the facts about every issue, and can only make decisions on their current knowledge. When their knowledge is increased, sometimes a different decision is apropriate. Now LYING and pretending to believe one thing just to get votes is a totally different story.

Obama/Gore '08!

It wouldn't be bad, except that in spite of his lofty claims, Obama is no different than the rest of the Washington insiders that he purports to shun. He, I'm afraid, cannot be elected without Hillary, and I don't think he sees that, or is man enough to accept her onto the ticket. SHE is the one who can change Washington, not him.

Nothing Wolf I think its refreshing to see a politician say in there own words I was wrong and I have changed my mind on this subject. This does not happen as much as it should and maybe if Bush had the you know what to say this we wouldn't be in Iraq. I commend OBAMA for taking the heat and standing for what he thinks is right. We need to stop pigeon holding our official to what they say when a changed of mind is for the good of the country. We are all human and we grow and evolve and do our ideas. This is fine with me

Ok who flip flopped first? Mccain and he did not get hit this hard. Mccain has changed his hat more then anyone else and he voted with Bush 95% of the time, but barack being black surely shows that there is a double standard and CNN I use to watch you so much, but know you are dissapointing me. Does not seem that you are partail anymore. Mccain lies daily and it seems to go by the waste side.

I think it's okay that candidates change their minds.
I thought that Obama would be different.
He's bascially a politician trying to buy his way in.
His money trumps honoring his word.

I am actually more worried about a politician that has never changed their minds, ever.

A non-flip flopper, is basically someone that has lost the ability to learn

Obama's explanation for why he is foregoing the $85 million is not false. He just decides to focus on the argument that works for him. Is it true that another reason behind the decision is his capacity to raise money? Of course! Instead of belaboring the obvious argument (which everyone else is pushing), he is emphasizing the other — equally true — argument that McCain has been playing the existing system.

So Wolf, yes Obama has changed his mind; but also true is the reason Obama has given for his decision: the system is broken.

Wolf, the better example of a good change is Senator McCain's change on drilling for oil. With gas prices going through the roof, that is a change that we can believe in. While he will take political heat for that, it is America that will ultimately benefit from that decision, not John McCain.

Senator Obama's decision helps Senator Obama, and Senator Obama alone. All these people who think he stands for hope and change have been hoodwinked and bamboozled.

Think about the greater good in this election.

So he changed his mind, I really don't think the American public cares about that. Why have limited funds when you can have unlimited funds, lets get the real issues. The economy, Iraq, China, etc.

I was reminded of it when McCain realized we needed off shore drilling off the coast of Florida because we need to head in the right direction for what's best for the entire country and not just what's in our back yard.

But you're right, being upfront about it is the way to go, before someone else gives you the idea to be upfront about it to make the way easier when Obama wasn't that way on his own.

Nothing is wrong with it.
Read keating 5 about John McCain.

No surprise that OBAMA flip-flops and this is not the first time.
Obama is a bundle of confusion, cotradiction and chaos.

The current presidential general election finance system is, indeed, broken. Until the 527's are regulated, Republican candidates will have a definite advantage under public financing.

One other note: Blitzer wonders why a candidate can't change his mind on an issue. As he himself said in 2004, " The problem that I saw that Kerry had, probably one of the biggest problems, if not the biggest problems, was the way he was positioned by the Republicans as a flip-flopper. That — that caused so many Americans to wonder who is this guy? Will he do anything just for political purposes?"

I'm a true Obama supporter and I do agree that I wish Obama did say he changed his mind. Regardless…GO OBAMA!!!!

THANK YOU WOLF AS A DONATER ONCE A MONTH FOR THE PAST SIX MONTHS I WOULD HAVE FELT HURT . I SAY YES WE CAN BEAT MCBUSH

I do believe politicians should be able to change their mind ("view") as long as the politician gives believable reasons for the change. It's ok to say, "10 years ago I supported campaigns using public funds. Over time the system has broken down beginning with (1), then (2), then (3), so yes; I've changed my mind. I no longer support the program. In lieu of my former position I support [whatever] and this is why: (1), then (2), then (3).

That's credible. That shows leadership. That's shows a dynamic politician who isn't stuck in "business as usual–avoid reform" ideology.

To answer your question, "Would it have been so bad politically for Obama if he would have just said: "This country needs me in the White House and this decision will help make that happen. We can't take any chances. As a result, I changed my mind?" Absolutely yes: that reason is damaging.

Mr. Blitzer, that is probably one of the most unbelievable, shallow, egotistical reasons for changing position on funding sources. Senator Obama did not cite that as a reason. Your question smacks of "money can buy the White House" and tends to cast the candidate as one who follows the money trail rather than citing facts.

There is nothing wrong with a politician changing his or her mind as long as they can provide sensible, believable and credible reasons.

There is also nothing wrong with a politician coming clean and saying, "My vote for the war was wrong." In that case her inability to say those simple words haunted her and hindered her campaign.

Yeah, you are right. Obama should have been honest and up-front about this. At the same time McCain keeps changing positions and denies holding a conflicting position. Why CAN'T the candidates be more honest? Flip-flopping has gotten such a bum rap, especially since Bush symbolizes WHY we need someone in the White House that is willing to re-examine their policies.

I just watching your talk with Dona Brazille and Leslie Sanchez.I always that you guys are neutral, but the more and more I see lately once Barak Obama has been a presumptive Democratic Candidate, there seems to be more critical analysis of him compared to John McCain. You didn't question Leslie regarding Flip Flopping by John McCain, particularly on the Comprehensive Immigration. See at Ronald Reagan centre he categorically said no and now in a meeting with hundreds of Hispanic leaders changed his thing. You let Leslie off the hook. Regarding Fundraising Obama has clearly explained why he did what he did.
On the Free Trade Accord, Obama never said he would change it unilaterally, but John McCain and his cronies twist what Obama said and say that he would change the pact unilaterally. You guys are on top of all the remarks made by boith candidates all the time, but still when it comes to McCaine whether he changes what Obama said or what Mccain fli-flops, you guys handle them with soft gloves.
Thanks for your impartiality.
Kidambi Raj

I thought McWar was going to do the same. Looks like he is the flip-flopper! Obama is going to represent the people.

Yes, that is what he just said…. the system is broken and he changed his mind. START TALKING ABOUT THE ISSUES THAT MATTER TO EVERYDAY AMERICANS MEDIA PEOPLE!

There is nothing wrong with that.

Accusing politicians of flip-flopping every time they change their minds fosters a rigidness that will curtail creativity.

I think those politicians who "stick to their guns–no matter what" are the core problem of our democracy. A fine example of a rigid politician is George Bush.

Mr. Blitzer: It seems you've retired as a journalist and emerged as a cheerleader. At last you're out of the closet.

“Change we can believe in” otherwise “One’s constant change of stance we can believe in”　Is anybody getting tired?

Yeah, maybe Senator Obama should have said that if Senator McCain didn't accused him of lying. But he gotta defend himself from "flipfloping". If it is okay to change mind, then one should confront McCain on his "accusation" before criticizing Obama.

Well, let's see, so many main stream American's have expressed outrage over a black man becoming President they will do anything to stop him from being elected.

The lies and smears is what caused this happen.

Sen. Obama, as long its legal do your thing!

McCain's only mad because he believed the White House was his. I guess he forgot what happened to him with the smears. The minute groups put out he had a black child (out of wedlock) white folks wouldn't support him. It was a lie easily debunked but some people are so stupid they believed it.

McCain stop frontin like you don't understand the game.

if mccain can stop flip floping that will be great but he cant help it his a mastered liar.

There's a difference between changing one's mind based on new or corrected information, and changing one's mind for the sake of expediency or pure self-interest. If a convict is let out of prison because new DNA evidence clears him, that's a change of mind that is justificable and proper. If a Senator says, "I voted to send troops to Iraq because I thought it was the right thing to do at the time and I trusted the intelligence reports by the CIA and those of other nations, but I have now come to regert that decision and think we acted too quickly," then his change of mind is believable and logical. "I got tricked into voting for the war!" is the weasel's response.

But Obama basically said, "I'm a new kind of politican and I'm going to limit myself to public funds to avoid owing favors to those who finance my campaign," and then saw he'd get more money from the private donors (and tens of millions in "free advertising" from forced union "contributions.") Obama's change of mindset was for purely selfish reasons. (And it broke an agreement made with the McCain campaign.) Obama's "change of mind" is akin to someone betting on red and then switching to black after the roulette wheel stops spinning, and is an illustration that he is, in fact, "just another politician."

In this day and age of political correctness everyone is afraid of making judgments and being judged. But life doesn't work that way, and Obama will be judged as just another egotistical, power-mad, greedy politican by those who are not afraid of telling it like it is. A candidate who follows the polls rather than principle and breaks his own promises is a poltician, not a statesman.

As for me, I only vote for statesmen (when I can find them on the ballot).

You are right!! If he had said that you will be the first criticizing him by now. Saying he is arrogant and the country doesnot need him and blah blah blah…….

Wolf, it is because of you guys (The Press) that politicians find it hard to admit an honest mind change about an issue they have a stand on that shifted. Image how you guys have being beating this story since yesterday. As if Obama has committed robbery. McCain has changed his mind several times during this campaign period and you guys just gloss over it and move on. But for Obama, is a beat to death!

Wolf, from my perspective you skewed coverage of Obama since the days of Hilary is still showing up in your show. You’re almost losing me as fan

Barack needs to win the presidency and then can change the system
This a very smart move from smart man

oh Wolf, just finished watching your show…you seem very one sided, i don't know how good that is for one who is supposed to bring us the news. as far as i see it Mr. Obama is revolutionizing the public financing. i wait tables for a living. i am not wealthy, famous or a mover and shaker like many who support Mr. Mc Caine. i am just an average American who is tired of ALL The Republican Corruption…from the war to wire taps. we are in serious trouble here and i believe in Mr. Obama. did he change his mind…well i do not recall him ever definitively committing to PF. how ever Mr. Mc Caine has sure done a lot of oopsing i was wrong from off shore drilling to taxes to energy… Wolf maybe you should try to be more Objective. try reporting the news not your views.

BTW, I'm still laughing at people who continue to think the best way to support Hillary is by voting for McCain. Why don't you just hold up a sign that says, "I'm voting McCain because I'm a whiny wanker who didn't understand any of Hillary's views."

How about when Obama said he was against the tax break holiday because he tried in in Illionois, it failed, and HE SAID he changed his mind on the idea. How soon you forget Wolf. He could have said he changed his mind or he could point out the fact its (public financing system) broken. And obviously its a smarter decision to point out why he opted out. the fact he opted out tells you he changed his mind in the same sentence. Come on Wolf pull your head out of your arse.

He changed his mind for his own ambition.

And he LIED about why he changed his mind.

And he tried to falsely place the blame elsewhere.

He will change on a whim if it is politically expedient for him.

FLIP FLOPPING IS WHEN A POLITICIAN CHANGES CORNERS

TO SLEAZE OUT SOME VOTES, NOT THEIR MIND.

MCBUSH DOESN'T CHANGE HIS MIND.

HE HAS TO HAVE ONE IN THE FIRST PLACE.

HE CHANGES HIS POSITION TO WHATEVER

HE THINKS AT THAT HOUR, WILL GARNER HIM VOTE.

WE HAVE SEEN QUITE A FEW PEOPLE CHANGE THEIR

MIND ON THE WAR. AND THAT I THINK IS GREAT.

Wolf,

Leave Obama alone! If you do not support him, stop unpresidented negative reporting on his campaign. Take it as a feedback that there are millions of people out there who see you as anti-Obama (The undoubted next US President).

Obamacan

Puleeze… there's no bigger flip-flopper than McBush, period. He changes his mind on his own viewpoint on a weekly basis, depending upon who he is mumbling and stuttering in front of.

McCain = Bush's Third Term

Let's talk about the issues and compare the platforms of the candidates and the implications of said platforms, please.

I have no problem when a person rethinks their position on something that is no longer a good idea.

We all have done it, make a decision early on, but when circumstances change and things begin to go in a different direction, we have to rethink our earlier decision and decide to go in a different direction, or stay stuck where we are.

It is not hypocritical, it is just logical thinking, we all do it all the time if not daily in the small decisions we make about our own lives. I would not want a presidential candidate who doggedly stuck to one thing no matter how situations and circumstances changed.

CHANGE OF MIND COMES WITH NEW INFORMATION

AND KNOWLEDGE. WE LOVE PEOPLE THAT LEARN.

FLIP FLOPPING COMES WITH NEW LOBBYISTS,

OR OLD ONES GETTING GREEDIER.

It is not so much the flip flopping as the WAY Obama does it. He says that McCain is funded by PAC and lobbyists as is the RNC…so he in fact, tells a "LIE" to excuse the fact he himself is breaking a promise, or lied.

Obama himself, according to RNC standards for PAC and Lobbyist money has accepted at the very least, 162,000.00+ for his campaign. The real truth is the RNC has less than 1.1 percent Lobbyist and PAC money, and McCain has 1.7% in his campaign donations.

THE DNC, however, 10% made up their funds.

So it is the incorporation of a lie to disguise the truth that has me personally reeling over Obama. I used to want Clinton as the VP because I supported her….now I just want her to stay away from this guy….as far away as humanly possible.

His new logo? Total arrogance. His true colors are showing behind that wonderful facade. It breaks my heart in a way…I really did want to believe in him.

B.O. is just like all the rest of the politicians - a big fat liar. Rev Wright know this for a fact, maybe we should go ask him to enlight us more about B.O.

Manny, Phx AZ

P.S. Remember what B.O. said about Rev Wright "I can not disown Rev Wright as I could not disown my very own grandmother" but yet here we are………with Rev Wright thrown under the bus. That was a hint of future lies.

The American tax payer should not foot the bill for the campaign of anyone! Let people who believe in their candidate donate money if they so choose.With Bush wasting money on 2 or more wars (Iraq,Afghanistan,drugs,border wars) we do not have the money to waste!

It looks like even Blitzer has succumbed to the Obama audacity–sticking up for that despicable seal on the situation room–he and Lou Dobbs were my last hope for objectivity—join Brazille and the rest of the dems for a good 500 million dollar laugh at the taxpayers expense..My vote says it will never happen. Nurse for lower taxes for working people…no Obama

If someone changes their mind (more than a year later) about something that isn't earth-shattering (to me), so what? McCain has done a 180 on everything he has been so self-righteous and pompous about, from torture to immigration to the war to offshore drilling… the list goes on.

And every single one of those things affect me. Personally, I donate every month to Obama's campaign (sometimes twice)… probably $5 to $25 and I think he still will be publicly financed.. by the American public that is hungry for change.

Yes, we can.

Donna in Ca.

In Obama's defense he did say he just changed his mind when he decided to run for President.
I agree with this article, the term flip-flopping has gotten out of hand. Some beliefs/stances have to change it is foolish and irrational not to. Look at George Bush he is the poster boy of NOT flip-flopping, look where that's got us.
I do think the system is broken even when these 527 can still make negative adds and the candidate is not accountable. I don't think this was Obama's main reason, which is he needs to do everything to win and the public finance system limits him.

Puleeze… there's no bigger flip-flopper than McBush, period. He changes his mind on his own viewpoint on a weekly basis, depending upon who he is mumbling and stuttering in front of.

McCain = Bush's Third Term

The press and the republicans continue to underestimate Obama and as long as they continue with that mind set he will win in a landslide.

It was a masterful move to reject public financing. It would show very poor judgement to reject a strength you have come to build through the process.

Go OBAMA/HAGEL 08′

The presidential financing system puts both candidates on equal terms. It is meant to level the playing field and stop the influence of big business and interest groups from drowning out the average citizens vote. There is nothing wrong with a person maturing and looking at things differently and changing their stance on an issue. In this instance though, as you well know Wolf, this is not a person maturing and changing their stance on NAFTA, War, Abortion, right to privacy or freedom of speech. It is about money and a politician serving his own best interest. You can rationalize it, if you want to but what it boils down to is, not changing the way Washington operates but politics as usual at the expense of the individual voter.

As long as the "change of mind" doesn't hurt public but helping him, then why not?

If it's ok to change your mind, why was Hillary's vote for the Iraq war such a big deal during the primary campaign? Do better, Wolf.

Why didn't McCain think out all of his policies before he ran for president??

I LOVE PEOPLE THAT CHANGE THEIR MIND

AFTER LEARNING MORE ABOUT THE SITUATION.

THAT'S GOOD USE OF THE HUMAN BRAIN.

BUT MCBUSH SHOULD BE ARRESTED FOR

COMMITTING A LEWD ACT WITH AMERICAN VOTERS.

HE DOESN'T CHANGE HIS BIGOTED MIND.

HE JUST FLIP FLOPS TO ACCOMMODATE THE

PLETHORA OF NEW SLEAZE BAGS GETTING ON HIS SHIP.

If a candidate consistently changes her/his mind as a result of ignorance then one has to ponder if a Presidential candidate shouldn't be reasonably well informed people.

Aren't politicians people too?

I haven't heard of many people that haven't changed their mind about certain subjects. I think it's great that both Obama & McCain have changed their stance on a few issues. However, Obama still has my gauranteed vote. McCain is cut out to be a disaster for the economy, human rights, and how the world views America.

At least Obama doesn't sputter and get angry when accused of changing his point of view…. unlike McCranky.

What is ridiculous is when McCain changes his mind every time he talks to a different audience, which he has done throughout this campaign.

It depends on the reasons behind the switch. If the situation has changed, policy must as well. If a position changes based on pure political calculation (ahem, Mitt Romney and McCain), then the voters lose trust.

Do you trust Obama to keep his word about the Iraq war?

Nothing is wrong with a political candidate who changes their mind.

Obama's campaign finance decision to not accept public funding from the government, but rather from the puplic directly, is "change we can believe in".

Mccain's campaign finance decision to accept public funding from the government does not represent change.

It represents continuation of a failed government campaign public financing system.

Obama's decision is in alignment with what he annonced the first day after he bacame the presumptive Democratic nominee, that his party would no longer accept donations from special interests or PACs. That too was "change we can believe in".

Obama is having his campaign rely on small contributions from "We the people…".

Seems like back to our roots patriotism to me.

It depends whether changing views is an improvement for Americans or not. Obama not taking an $85 million dollar free hand out of tax payer's dollars in lue of raising his own doesn't hurt anyone I know. Drilling off our coasts, which Bush is now for, is obviously has a downside.

Nothing's wrong with that, Wolf. Except when such a politician ruthlessly destroys his opponents with his previous views — and then, voila! suddenly espouses new ones — which were, incidentally, the views of those ruthlessly destroyed opponents to begin with. I would call that intellectual bankruptsy and moral decay! But that's rapidly becoming the norm for most Americans, it appears — so, of course Obama is their man!

Looks like the only "Change" we are going to get from Obama is from his "MIND" as in " I have changed my mind". That you suckers fell for this con artist, I can't stop laughing.

Changing your mind and admitting it, as Abraham Lincoln frequently did, by saying "I'm more intelligent today than when I made that comment is a good thing for government. The Bush doctrine of staying the course in the face of the truth is simple-minded.

This is a logical funding choice. McSame has flip-flopped on actual ISSUES that affect ACTUAL PEOPLE. Look at the list:

Bush Tax Cuts
Offshore Drilling
Gitmo
Abortion
Estate Tax
The Environment
Oil Taxes
Immigration

The list goes on. McSame CANNOT BE TRUSTED ON THE ISSUES THAT AFFECT US!

Obama 08!

Wolf, Obama needed that extra money to hire Hilliary Clinton to help him capaign in order he may gain her followers. Jeanie-Austin, TX

Hey Blitzer, where were you 4 years ago when this was an issue?

Obama's strength is his fluidity and ability to meet changing conditions. I have a problem with politicians flip-flopping to manipulate, deceive or pander. This is neither and I could care less that he has changed his mind.

we pay taxes so why ask us for another $3.00 to pay for
the presidential election , a nother scam so Senator Obama
allow you to give or not give Senator Obama is saying
he is working for his supporters not the government
you democrates for McCane we know your minds

Why didn't you ask that question when John Kerry was hammered as a flip flopper Wolfe? You are an idiot.

Wolf Blitzer must be supporter of John McCain because I have not once heard him stick it to McCain for flip-flopping on the other issues. McCain used to oppose Bush’s tax cuts for the very wealthy, but he reversed course in February to accommodate a more republican a point of view. The other inconsistencies of John McCain can be laid out.

If you know Obama wants to cash in on these issues, then do you complain.

I'm happy Obama changed his mind about federal matching funds. He doesn't need it - I'm funding him, like millions of others like me, a little bit each month. It doesn't bother me that he changed his mind about this - it doesn't actually affect me.

McCain has changed his mind on IMPORTANT things, from offshore drilling to torture to immigration to campaign funding. He's just bitter because he doesn't have a base like Obama's who are willing to send money even if they cannot afford it because we want CHANGE.

Yes, we can.

Will Obama's decision save taxpayers $80 million?

It is amazing to me that people complain about Obama want ing to use private money instead of public money. By not using tax payers money he is showing that he's looking out for the public's dollar. I think some people just want to complain about every thing. If you said they could get free gas, but they had to drive 50 miles to get it they would complain instead of finding a way to bring something positive out of it. I don't like to call people stupid, But they are making it hard for me not to call them stupid.
I would plan the trip even if I had to make a family outing that saved me the gas for the trip.

Only Barack Obama is allowed to change his mind, no one else too, if anyone else decides to change their mind, we are not allowed too - Because according to the Obamabots, Barack Obama is God and he is Perfect.

The DNC bet on the wrong horse, I cannot believe Obama fans believe they do not need Hillary Voters. Ridiculous.

YOU are making an issuse about nothing. There is nothing wrong with him changeing his mind. Why should he use the governments money, when he has more of his own Via donations. Please ! People use some common sense. The TRUTH IS SOME PEOPLE DON'T WANT CHANGE. McCain is whinning.

Who cares why he changed his mind, just as long as he beats McCain! Let's try something new for once and get out of the old way of doing business in this country.

As Tim Russert says "nothing". I want someone who can change his mind for a better idea and not have the Spanish Inquisition fall upon him/her.

NOTHING AT ALL, JUST ASK MCCAIN.

What happens when we all vote for him based on his iraq war position and then… you guessed it… he changes his mind and decides that we actually do need to be over there for the next 100 years too! Then what? Do we finally get mad? Do we finally hold him accountable? Or do we just say he is the great one who knows all!!!! Give me a break… he is calculated in everything he does… unfortunately his judgement lacks and eventually the veil of ignorance will be lifted from the eagles eyes.

Obama is getting his money from oversee thru internet!!!!
Everybody thinks that it comes from small donors from USA,
Think twice!!!
Most of them are virtual reality!
Somebody to check the donations! It is not easy, I know!!!

Obama is a new Mafia!

You are just trying to kick up dust, this is not a double standard.

I am happy he is letting the people fund his campaign and not
lobbist, that way he only owes favors to the american people and
not lobbist.
I dont see anything wrong with it. As a matter of fact I wouldnt want him
to do it any other way.

This way we the american people will be his boss and not the big companies.
let john maccain say what he want to I want hear him I will change
the channel because john mcain make me sick…../.

I think Tim and Luke Russert had the right idea. I agree with you 100%, Wolf. I wish Bush and Cheney had learned that 8 years ago. I have a hard time making up my mind so changing it comes easy to me. By the way, great reporting on the Russerts, Wolf. Your a very good reporter yourself.

What if no one ever changed their mind???????????????
SKing
Sonora Ky.

Obama is American and he wants what's best for America. He is American. He is American. I didn't trust Bush who everyone loved. The GOP just had a bushfest promoting this guy. And look what we got–zero brains and $4. gas prices.

Obama is my choice and the best choice for America. I can not wait to vote for him in November and I'm over 30 years old. November seems so far away. That's just how excited I am.

Well… let's be honest shall we!

Obama ran a different campaign during the primary and so now he is running a change campaign for the general election!

I don't blame Obama for changing! If it was the other way - McSame would do the same thing… he's pissed because he is having problems getting money from his donors! That's not Obama fault!

Absolutely. There's nothing wrong with changing your views to fit the facts. The only times flip-flopping should really be applied as a negative term is when they legitimately flip-flop, like McCain claiming he never commented on Hillary Clinton's campaign when there's recordings that say the exact opposite. For example.

So what. Obama flip-flopped on financing and gave a lame excuse. The political damage of flip-flopping is not in somebody's stating the fact but in flip-flopper's acknowledging it. It makes the flip-flopper look weak and un-commanderly-in-chief. Obama will lose a few supporters (maybe) but will find scores of new ones with his privately financed carrots. If he did not, there would not have been a reason to flip-flop to start with. It's all games.

Since 2000 McCain flip-flopped on immigration, tax cuts, campaign financing, fiscal responsibility and practical measures against climate change. And he is still standing up. His supporters don't get disgusted well because they trust their gut feeling and think he's honest and decent despite his standings, and also surprise surprise they like tax cuts policies themselves.

That is why neither Obama's or McCain's supporters will be in any major way affected by this flip-flop. And those who don't support either don't care. Like anything they can be bought through expensive campaigning. And this is Obama's bet in this game.

Flip flopping on campaign financing is not as huge as flip-flopping on oil drilling, or flip-flopping on abortion. Campaign finance isn't an issue the candidates will gain or lose votes over. When Obama all of a sudden decides to stay in Iraq, decides women don't have a right to choose, decides to give big corporations the better tax breaks, then we will have a problem.

Politicians like Obama are promising people. Full of promises that are to be broken. What else is new?

You know what. When Reagan said it "was morning in America". I never saw the sunshine. That trickle down theory did not make it to my door. But with Barack, we are all in this together. Together we are taking our country back, and sittling down at the same table to fix our problems.

It really will be morning in America when he is president. No, he won't be able to resolve all the problems at once because there are many, but he will be able to make a dent where it matters, like the war.

America will ring that phone at 3:00am and Barack will be ready.

Obama 08

John McCain has flip flopped on almost every single issue…..He debates himself on a daily basis!! McCain himself flip flopped on public financing in the primary but took it one step further which was illegal

Clinton Democrats for Mc Cain '08

Good luck with getting an ego like Obama's to admit to something everybody in this world sees so clearly!

I think that is exactly what he did say. He just used different words. This great man stands behind what he says…just ask move on.org.
Obama 08

i guess it's easy to call a politician a flip-flopper, but hell i'd rather have someone do that then be a stubborn mule (i'm looking at you BUSH).

McCain, however, freaking goes from anti-war to pro-war. what the hell?

sometimes you should change your mind, sometimes you shouldn't. (HINT HINT)

Obama is not stupid. He can't control groups that independently put out garbage like the "Swiftboat for Truth" jerks.

Money, unfortunately, is what got the creep we have in the White House elected and it's what going to get Senator Obama elected.

What a bunch of republican't hypocrisy.

But, could we expect anything less?

Dear Wolfe, it means that they will say anything at any time to ensure votes. Just like Nafta and Public funding, Reverand Wright, etc….

Voter in California

I was beginning to losinterest in The Situation Room since the end of dem primaries.
But today,it bounced back with well coordinated set of reporting and good moderation from Wolf.Good job wolf.

Did you ever change your mind after further investigation of something?

I don't understand why the media is making a huge deal about this. If Obama decided to go along with public financing, he's giving McCain a huge advantage and foregoing his own financial advantage. Obama has the potential to raise money and finance his campaign by small donors. Usually Republicans have the funding advantage (with big donations from corporate lobbyists) but Obama can probably raise $400 million by small donors. So it would be foolish for Obama to go for the $85 million. If McCain had Obama's fundraising advantage, he'd do the same thing. But he doesn't. So tough luck, McCain.

McCain has flip-flopped-and-flipped on so many issues its difficult to know where he stands on issues. He was against drilling for oil in Florida, now he's for it. He was against Bush on torture, now he supports Bush on torture by opposing the rule of law and the Supreme Court ruling that simply states you cannot hold and torture other human beings for years without due process. He wants public financing of campaigns but has received millions of dollars from special interest lobbyists. Say NO to McCain!

Obama made a pledge that was conditional. The words below were a part of the pledge that he signed:
"I have been a long-time advocate for public financing of campaigns combined with free television and radio time as a way to reduce the influence of moneyed special interests. I introduced public financing legislation in the Illinois State Senate, and am the only 2008 candidate to have sponsored Senator Russ Feingold’s (D-WI) bill to reform the presidential public financing system. In February 2007, I proposed a novel way to preserve the strength of the public financing system in the 2008 election. My plan requires both major party candidates to agree on a fundraising truce, return excess money from donors, and stay within the public financing system for the general election. My proposal followed announcements by some presidential candidates that they would forgo public financing so they could raise unlimited funds in the general election. The Federal Election Commission ruled the proposal legal, and Senator John McCain (R-AZ) has already pledged to accept this fundraising pledge. If I am the Democratic nominee, I will aggressively pursue an agreement with the Republican nominee to preserve a publicly financed general election." Obama’s pledge, Oct 2007

It would be helpful if the media gave that some consideration.

McCain dodged investigate of his flip-flop on public financing during the primaries. McCain has said he won't referee the 527s somewhat contrary to the position he took in 2004. McCain was lame in responding to Rev. Wright and Michelle Obama ads. The history of what the Republicans swiftboating did to John Kerry remains as a concern. The FEC hasn't been fully staffed since January and is currently unable to perform it's function.

Therefore, a firm, true, enforceable agreement - not lip service is what was required. McCains actions during the primary and his recently stated position on 527s basically provided the answer for Obama.

It takes two to disagree. Some media has been deeply flawed ignoring the recent history of what the McCain camp has been up to that made such an agreement virtually impossible to reach. there was no display of good faith on their part.

Obama pledged he would accept public financing if a genuine truce could be worked out. To pin all the blame on Obama for not being able to reach such an agreement is absurd.