July 3, 2008
Posted: 04:00 PM ET

From
 Both presidential candidates have been known to enjoy gambling.
Both presidential candidates have been known to enjoy gambling.

(CNN) – John McCain often brags about gambling with his political career by reaching across the aisle to work with Democrats or by voting against his party. But it turns out risking his political ambition is only part of a larger affinity for the thrill of putting it on the line.

An article published Thursday by Time Magazine takes a look at both McCain and Barack Obama’s love for the tables.

McCain is a heavy-betting high-energy craps man, while Obama prefers the slow pace and strategy of poker, reporters Michael Scherer and Michael Weisskopf write.

“Enjoying craps opens up a window on a central thread constant in John's life,” the article quotes former McCain strategist John Weaver as saying. “Taking a chance, playing against the odds.”

You won’t find McCain at the low-stakes tables, but rolling the dice with thousands of dollars at stake. He draws the line at taking markers, or loans, from the casinos to play.
He’s not in it for the money, the article says, but the camaraderie at the table and the thrill of winning.

Aides have recently curbed McCain’s casino visits, and Obama’s gambling days have waned since arriving in the U.S. Senate. But back in Springfield, Obama and three other state senators made up the core of a weekly bi-partisan poker game that often included lobbyists and bank, insurance and utilities agents.

Tight play and an unwavering desire to win kept Obama raking in the $3 top raise pots, and led a Republican rival to exclaim, “Doggone it, Barack, if you were more liberal in your card-playing and more conservative in your politics, you and I would get along much better.”

Filed under: Barack Obama • John McCain


Kevin   July 3rd, 2008 3:55 pm ET

At least, they're human….

Molly   July 3rd, 2008 3:57 pm ET

obama is a Total FRAUD!!!!
Rev Wright was RIGHT - "Obama will say whatever he has to - he is a Politician"! Sure BET the DNC is sorry they picked the WRONG guy - he will Never win the white house.

Senator Clinton is the best qualified to lead our country
McCain 2nd choice - Never obama

Farrell, Houston, Tx   July 3rd, 2008 4:02 pm ET

This sounds like a lot of crap to me.

Willy   July 3rd, 2008 4:06 pm ET

POTUS is not an Affirmative Action position.

Capt. Smash, Salt Lake City, Utah   July 3rd, 2008 4:06 pm ET

You won’t find McCain at the low-stakes tables, but rolling the dice with thousands of dollars at stake. He draws the line at taking markers, or loans, from the casinos to play. He’s not in it for the money, the article says, but the camaraderie at the table and the thrill of winning.

If this does not tell you how McWar will run our country then nothing will. He will risk it all to win including American lives and tax-payers money.

Jeff Spangler, Arlington, VA   July 3rd, 2008 4:09 pm ET

A pair of jokers is a losing hand for America no matter how you place your bets.

Taking the GOP to the cleaners   July 3rd, 2008 4:10 pm ET

Yup…..BO takin' the GOP's beer money!……

Dan   July 3rd, 2008 4:11 pm ET

And if Obama wins, we can say the same thing about the U.S. in general.

Matt M.   July 3rd, 2008 4:14 pm ET

C'mon CNN, that doesn't even compare. McCain playing thousand-dollar craps (which is almost purely a game of chance) vs. Obama playing $3-pot poker games (a much more strategy oriented game)with fellow senators? The former is irresponsible and reckless, while the latter is responsible and clearly intended to build comaraderie. It's not fair to compare a possible gambling problem ("aides have recently curbed McCain's casino visits"?) with a friendly game of low-stakes poker.

Pam   July 3rd, 2008 4:14 pm ET

I think WE are gambling with either one of these jokers. Hillary was obviously the best choice.

dan   July 3rd, 2008 4:15 pm ET

two of the only people left in this country with a disposabel income….

tedious898   July 3rd, 2008 4:16 pm ET

America….Let's hire the smart guy this time?

If you're unable to compare and contrast which candidate is really smart and which one is ….not AS smart…please ask for some help before entering the voting booth

Yes …you can help prevent a total melt down of this country - one vote at a time

Jeff Long   July 3rd, 2008 4:16 pm ET

What was the point of this blog?

HH   July 3rd, 2008 4:17 pm ET

I could never ever vote for John McCain. He is just not the strong candidate.

eric   July 3rd, 2008 4:19 pm ET

Gee, who do you want in the White House? The dice roller with a bad temper who takes big risks on pure chance, even when the math says he loses? Or the cool, calm and collected intellectual who does the math and pushes in the chips when he has the best of it? Easy choice to me, especially as a poker player myself. Do you want your president going on tilt? Not only does Obama reach across the aisle to Republicans, he reaches across the table to take their chips. I love it!

ANGIE   July 3rd, 2008 4:20 pm ET

capt smash
i could not have said that better myself!!! at least obama thinks things through and doesnt act irationally unlike mccain hot tempered blows up easy he wont hesiate in a minute to press the button or drag us into wars in mccains world just the thought of wars excite him being former military this is why i cant vote for him hes scary and to mentally unstable think about your future folks!!!

Jeff Long   July 3rd, 2008 4:22 pm ET

"saga4obama" is a CNN moderator. His negative post are all over the place. He has at least one post on every comment page. He is either a CNN moderator or he is a "troll". I will go ahead and say both. No thanks to your biased reporting and commenting CNN. At least you got to read this.

Mickie in PA   July 3rd, 2008 4:22 pm ET

McCain can afford to gamble with thousands of dollars - Cindy has trust funds for him any way.

Obama 08: Female, 60, white   July 3rd, 2008 4:22 pm ET

Oh Molly, your off topic comments are getting very tiresome….

Ken Austin, TX   July 3rd, 2008 4:22 pm ET

Never mind those two little ol' wars we have going on in Iraq and Afghanistan…let's discuss gambling.

Marilyn   July 3rd, 2008 4:22 pm ET

Who cares????? CNN please stop this nonsense and either get to the real issues or don't cover these two clowns at all.

joe   July 3rd, 2008 4:24 pm ET

Oh well thank goodness we have two men running — what would the country be without all that male intelligence, judgment and — of course gambling skills are a must…what a sad country this is.

gary   July 3rd, 2008 4:25 pm ET

OBAMA IS A BIG JOKE AND IVE SAID IT FROM THE BEGINING. YOU CANT TRUST O.B.

Veterans For Obama   July 3rd, 2008 4:26 pm ET

We've had enough thrilling high stakes risk for awhile.

Brian G, Sugar Land, TX   July 3rd, 2008 4:27 pm ET

Oh ain't this just peachy. Both candidates will play poker with the world's most influencial position.

Poker is a game wherein you never can tell where all the cards are, so ya gotta bluff.

Bridge, on the other hand, is a game of information discovery and tactical risk.

Much better that these two folks learn to play bridge. That is to say, don't gamble with our future, John and Barack.

John   July 3rd, 2008 4:28 pm ET

No kiding Smash…

A choice between somebody who plays a game of skill with calculable risks and reasonable betting versus a game of mere chance involving thousands of dollars.

Yeah, I'd say McCain isn't worth the risk.

Molly, please stay on topic.

4obama   July 3rd, 2008 4:28 pm ET

not willing to go snake eyes with America…GOP-kada
McCain is bluffing, he does not have a hand…
dumpmccain.com

ber6964   July 3rd, 2008 4:29 pm ET

Vote for Intelligence (Obama) Not for Insanity (McCain)!!!!

ron   July 3rd, 2008 4:29 pm ET

hey captain smash

Mccain played against the house. Obama well you got it He played with all those with all those people he wouldn't be seen dead with lobbyist yuk bank, insurance, and utility agents, heaven forbid. as for taking markers what do you figure Tony Rezko's holding for that house deal

john williams san diego, ca.   July 3rd, 2008 4:30 pm ET

Figures that Obama would like a game that if you can't bluff you have to fold sort of like Jimmy Carter.

Paul In Seattle   July 3rd, 2008 4:32 pm ET

I'd like to play McCain at a dice game downtown. That would be fun. Maybe a game of three card Monty.

roscoe   July 3rd, 2008 4:33 pm ET

It is very telling about McCain:

He wants you to believe he's risking it all. But he's betting the don't come line - that is, he's betting with the house all along. If he really had some nuts he'd resign his senate seat while running for President instead of being the personification of waste, fraud, and corruption by taking a paycheck he doesn't need to not work 3 1/2 days per week. It is pathetic. Obama is no better - they are indeed the politicians of change we can count on: no change at all.

Anita from Arizona   July 3rd, 2008 4:33 pm ET

McCain shoots the dice and Obama uses strategy. Keep this in mind when reviewing their policies when voting.

John McCain-McFlip-Flop-McBush is no "maverick"   July 3rd, 2008 4:33 pm ET

I see even the McCainiacs and Hillary's Hater Club don't take any holiday. Maybe they should act like George Bush and take off as much as possible.

from MA   July 3rd, 2008 4:35 pm ET

I would like to see Obama and McCain play cards together.

Mellow Down   July 3rd, 2008 4:35 pm ET

Molly,

Take a chill pill, you sound like a rabid ocelot. You are making no sense.

At least the boy's know how to relax and enjoy.

J. Richter   July 3rd, 2008 4:36 pm ET

Poker is actually a very intellectual game. In total I would prefer a non gambling president. But a big gambler in charge of red button decisions?

And one that admits shortcomings in knowledge on economics, maintains thousands in credit card debts and forgets to pay property taxes for four years is one I will not support for president in the next four years after the mess of the past eight years.

Cynthia - Arkansas   July 3rd, 2008 4:37 pm ET

I prefer the poker player. At least he has to be SMART and SKILLED to win. Throwing dice, throwing money! Yicks! We've already had that for 8 years. All of Bush's buddies have been paid well for their campaign donations. I already see McSame lining up to do the same thing. All this talk about off-shore drilling, when the oil companies already have 70 million acres that they don't drill now. Talking NAFTA, CAFTA and now Colombia so his corporate doners can get cheap labor. America better wake up!

Linda of Atlanta   July 3rd, 2008 4:37 pm ET

Of what value is this article? Everybody knows McCain has a high propensity for wanting to win against the odds. He is 72 years old, marginally intelligent, inarticulate and he is seeking the highest office in the land. Duh!

RV - Arizona   July 3rd, 2008 4:39 pm ET

McCain gambling strategy is not so smart because the house always has the upper hand.

I'll never vote for that counterfeit hero! He's a dam traitor to this country!

Why doesn't he declasify the 35 propaganda radio show he did for the enemy during the Vietnam war. Dam traitor!

Neal   July 3rd, 2008 4:39 pm ET

Cute. So what?
Although McCain sounds a little gross.

Judgement over experience   July 3rd, 2008 4:40 pm ET

As we have seen during the campaign, how he has run his campaign and even in this article, Obama is methodical, practical and has shown brilliant judgment, exactly what we need in a president. Mccain is a gambler and will gamble our futures' away.

Louis   July 3rd, 2008 4:40 pm ET

McCain can afford to wager thousands of dollars–just get it from his multi-millionaire wife who inherited a beer distributorship fortune.

Auntie Coosa, Blairsville, Georgia, USofA   July 3rd, 2008 4:41 pm ET

Since Senator John S McCain played the odds in Viet Nam and won, I'd say his odds in the USofA are good.

Senator Barack H Obama is holding a losing hand but he's still betting he can bluff the Voters.

Think the scenario through before you pull that lever or mark that X on the ballot. Do you want a seasoned winner or an empty "change" pocket loser? (Sen. BHO keeps making changes in his public statements so often he needs an 18-wheeler to hide all the previous contradictory sound bites.)

Nathan   July 3rd, 2008 4:41 pm ET

"You won’t find McCain at the low-stakes tables, but rolling the dice with thousands of dollars at stake."

And McCain tries to paint Obama as an elitist.

Jason   July 3rd, 2008 4:43 pm ET

I am really starting to get worried about the Democratic party as once again they backed the wrong horse. Change we can believe in has turned into Change whatever I want. If he continues at this rate he will be a more conservative Republican than McCain by election day. Sure am glad all the young kids and educated people could see past the slick speeches and slogans and pick this guy for what he stands for. Oh wait what exactly does he stand for….TODAY!

Ross in MD   July 3rd, 2008 4:43 pm ET

Key point seems to be that Obama always won in poker (a game of strategy more than luck), whereas McCain was just gambling away thousands.

Who do YOU trust with the economy?

James "Hussien" Monroe   July 3rd, 2008 4:43 pm ET

Which one of these pursuits seems "reckless" … CRAPS or POKER ?

Which one involves reading & understanding people interaction?

I'm not sayin …. you know, I just sayin ….

ObamaMama   July 3rd, 2008 4:43 pm ET

Being a poker player myself, I find that quite amusing and telling. I have lived in Las Vegas and never, ever put my money on the line! McCain has a problem if he puts it 'all on the line'. I will put my faith in the poker man!

Obama 08

Pat Riot   July 3rd, 2008 4:45 pm ET

I would never gamble and vote for Obama. I don't plan on betting my liberty.

Michael Ray Thompson   July 3rd, 2008 4:45 pm ET

Wow, I thought gamblling was a crazy activity? If John McCain does it, i guess it''s O.K. John McCain is a great American patriot! He'll be a great American president!

William Courtland, Southern Ontario   July 3rd, 2008 4:46 pm ET

Gambling belongs in a tent.

OLD SCHOOL!!!!   July 3rd, 2008 4:46 pm ET

Molly …….. obama is a Total FRAUD!!!! and YOU my Dear are an IDIOT!

Obama will say whatever he has to (- he is a Politician"! so is McCain and HRC………Never SAY NEVER……. As Far As Rev Wright
he is OLD School NEWS …what is your EXCUSE!!!

Obama 08

Chris   July 3rd, 2008 4:47 pm ET

I don't want a candidate that likes taking big chances by playing against the odds when our economy is almost in shambles!!

That's what crooks do! I want SOUND JUDGEMENT OVER TIME!

Ian   July 3rd, 2008 4:47 pm ET

This is the least of our worries, they are both bad news for the U.S.

JO-ANN   July 3rd, 2008 4:49 pm ET

TO MOLLY….

THE ARTICLE IS ABOUT GAMBLING NOT ABOUT REV WRIGHT…PLEASE THE AMERICAN PEOPLE ARE OVER THAT ISSUE….WE'RE CONCENTRATING ON THE REAL ISSUES….GET OVER YOURSELF…CAUSE OBAMA WILL BE IN THE WHITE HOUSE COME JAN 09…..

GO BLOG SOME WHERE ELSE WITH YOU NEGATIVITY…

Johnny   July 3rd, 2008 4:49 pm ET

I hear that George Bush's game is Hungry Hungry Hippos.

Jenny from IN   July 3rd, 2008 4:49 pm ET

Willy:

And Obama is not an affirmative action candidate. Get over it. Millions of Americans voted for a black candidate. Sorry to break the news to you. He won fair and square. Go spread your filth elsewhere.

Obama '08!!!!

SZ   July 3rd, 2008 4:50 pm ET

This the so-called news now — Metaphor of the Day.

BUD1   July 3rd, 2008 4:50 pm ET

Finally, 2 normal people running for president. They are both likeable, intelligent and human. I love the lack of polarization that people in the center are feeling. I enjoy it when the far extremes seem agonized. No matter who wins between Mc Cain and Obama, it feels like people like me will win in November. Go Barak, Go John… this is the way elections should be.

libertyjack, Fort Myers   July 3rd, 2008 4:51 pm ET

Jeff S.

You said that right. Wish we could ask for a re-deal because both of the add up to "craps".

JimS.   July 3rd, 2008 4:51 pm ET

The only think more insipid than this story is the pitiful comments some of you feel the need to post about it.

Kevin   July 3rd, 2008 4:53 pm ET

A fitting analogy: McCain will blow everything for cheap thrills, whereas Obama's a consistent winner.

Vietnam COMBAT Vet, OHIO   July 3rd, 2008 4:54 pm ET

the only isle McGambler reaches across is the isle on Cindys plane with his hand out for more money.. Good ole McMorals, and his loving wife, Cindy McJunkie!!

Jeff in Hampshire, IL   July 3rd, 2008 4:54 pm ET

What was that Molly? Did you say "blah blah blah" again? Get over it.

Jeff in Hampshire, IL   July 3rd, 2008 4:56 pm ET

Willy- are you afraid of the dark? Racism is fueled by ignorance.

MM   July 3rd, 2008 4:56 pm ET

Barack Obama's parents came from a mixed marriage (black & white)
they are actually less bigoted than say Mitt Romney who would only marry a mormon. I don't think its fair to attack Obama and not Romney.

Christiaan, Norman, OK   July 3rd, 2008 4:57 pm ET

If Obama didn't have my vote before, he certainly would now.

Insofar as this is an indication of character, I'd take a savvy poker player who knows how to play the odds and come out ahead over a risk-taking, "go for the high-risk, high-reward" guy any day. The high-risk guys are the ones who lose their houses, their families and their jobs and end up endlessly sitting in casinos waiting for their big break. It's a real shame that TV poker doesn't show the pros mucking 75% of their hands, as the smart money says to…

Paul   July 3rd, 2008 4:57 pm ET

Of course McCain loves craps. He's not the one who has to change his Depends.

Phil, FL   July 3rd, 2008 4:58 pm ET

And if McWarmonger wins, he will play high stakes with the lives and money of this entire country.

No thanks.

A friendly $3 game is a lot different from the high-stakes crap McWarmonger wants to do.

dusacre   July 3rd, 2008 4:58 pm ET

Molly,

Holy Molly, the BET did not pick Obama ( the BET & its founder supported Hillary,)

Obama won fair and square. Get over it.

Obama is a good man, wonderful leader, husband, and father. He is the best candidate. Look where 8 years of Bush and republicans have put our country. Do you want the same? I don't want four more years of McBush. Do you remember how much we paid for gas before we went into Iraq?

Mike   July 3rd, 2008 4:58 pm ET

I do not care if McBush gambles with his campaign. I do care if he gambles with our economy and the lives of our soldiers.

Rose   July 3rd, 2008 5:00 pm ET

I'd BET on the man that man that uses STRATEGY as opposed to the man that RISKS IT ALL.

Diplomacy or World War III–the choice is yours.

Obama 08

Andy   July 3rd, 2008 5:00 pm ET

If this does not tell you how McWar will run our country then nothing will. He will risk it all to win including American lives and tax-payers money.

Sorry Smash, gotta disagree here. McCain won't take markers which means he will not borrow money. That's called fiscal conservatism. Something we haven't had in this country since Reagan.

Ardnuas   July 3rd, 2008 5:00 pm ET

I will put my money on Obama…….. McCain is FULL OF ANGER, LACKS JUDGEMENT, AND IS ERRATIC….. He will start a war in Iran in 2009…. just WATCH!!!!

Jason   July 3rd, 2008 5:01 pm ET

Its 7 come 11 baby because Americans support off shore drilling and Obama is left with a losing hand!

aware   July 3rd, 2008 5:03 pm ET

On the line with McCain is the only wise choice! :)

Unless of course you want to keep Americans in victim, dependent downward spiral mode with Obama! :(

champ   July 3rd, 2008 5:04 pm ET

Edvidently, they both intends to win! Well, win or loose, the problem here is how risk is involved; Risk taking by chance or risk taking by calculation( strategic)!!

S Liles   July 3rd, 2008 5:04 pm ET

Get over it, HATERS, we will have a Black president come Jamuary 2009. There is Nothing that "ANY" of us can do about it. "GOD" controls this world, not "loonies" or any body else.

Nick   July 3rd, 2008 5:06 pm ET

Wow CNN loves Obama. All these puff pieces about I pods, date nights with thier wives, thier pets, or whatever else always seem to favor Obama even though they cover both candidates. This may be because the truth is Obama is easier to relate with, but there is really no need for stories like this. I wish the ticker would let us know what is happening on the ground in battleground states. Lets see some of the mailingers, comercials, and robocalls in VA, CO, NC, NV, OH, FL, PA, etc. That is something worth commenting on.

Hms   July 3rd, 2008 5:08 pm ET

CAN WE PLEASE TALK ABOUT THE ISSUES…

All I hear is how nice Barack and Michelle Obama are.. the media is being so ridicolous

Bill   July 3rd, 2008 5:08 pm ET

Winning poker players are good decision makers, so Barack moves further up my political ladder.

Foreign Observer   July 3rd, 2008 5:09 pm ET

A gambler in the White House. "not in for the money" but in for the thrill — like all gambling addicts, one might want to add. This is not a cute story, this is terrifying.

Ben   July 3rd, 2008 5:10 pm ET

What? McCain's hoping to get lucky somehow without a coherent strategy?

Bill   July 3rd, 2008 5:10 pm ET

Just another attempt by CNN to stir the pot over an insignificant item.

Always A Democrat First   July 3rd, 2008 5:10 pm ET

Molly,
make sure you sign up to be the first person to help McSame with his war efforts. Otherwise be quiet!!! Are you really a democrat?

Travis (in the real world   July 3rd, 2008 5:11 pm ET

Now i know where McWar will spend his final days.

Spending a chunk of Cindy's beer money at the casino.

He rolled the dice this election and LOST…..time to ask Cindy for a loan.

Reality Check   July 3rd, 2008 5:12 pm ET

Another biased CNN attempt to drag Obama down with already-down-there McCain.

McCain has a gambling ADDICTION. His handlers have to PULL him away from high-stakes tables. CNN compares that to penny ante poker????

km   July 3rd, 2008 5:12 pm ET

big, fricky, fracky deal

Griff   July 3rd, 2008 5:12 pm ET

Who are you People??? You don't gamble with a Country (from within).
You don't gamble with the people's future's… John McCain's one gamble, was in seeing his country again after being captured by the Vietname's….

News?   July 3rd, 2008 5:15 pm ET

Okay, at least CNN is reporting on both candidates and how they differ, but next article can we compare the candidates on something that matters? Like . . .
Economy
War
Taxes
Supreme Court
Unchecked Spending
Environment
etc.

Dave from Menifee   July 3rd, 2008 5:16 pm ET

Poker a thinking man game and craps is fast pace no time to think. Well that tell me a lot about someone who's looking for the right plays and someone who doesn't care don't think just react. I think we have that now in GWB just react.

Jack   July 3rd, 2008 5:16 pm ET

obama would be the JOKER - he is a JOKE - and a FRAUD!

McCain is qualified to lead our country - obama is NOT and the American people will NOT GAMBLE with our vote!

Mark Fullerton, CA   July 3rd, 2008 5:16 pm ET

McCain sounds like a JackAce.

John G   July 3rd, 2008 5:16 pm ET

So Obama "made up the core of a weekly bi-partisan poker game that often included lobbyists…"

This is a very telling statment right here. McCain gambles in the same places average Americans do but Obama gambles in private games with lobbyists (who have no effect on his policies whatsoever).

Veteran for McCain   July 3rd, 2008 5:16 pm ET

Nice to see that they both are human….. nothing wrong with the insight to their lives.

cvkvb   July 3rd, 2008 5:16 pm ET

cjgcj

DJ, LA, CA   July 3rd, 2008 5:17 pm ET

Slow, thinking man's game of Poker is by far better than "heavy-betting" craps. Hopefully Barack doesn't play with the lobbyists any longer though.

Daggnabbit   July 3rd, 2008 5:17 pm ET

McCains high-risk gambing habit combined with his age and his notorious hot-temper, would make him a very poor decision maker in my view.

Mark Henderson   July 3rd, 2008 5:17 pm ET

The cerebral game vs. the impulsive game: whom would you want making decisions on which the lives of millions of Americans are at stake?

Joe - Chicago, IL   July 3rd, 2008 5:17 pm ET

Poker is a game of strategy, knowing what to do with the hands you're delt. Craps is just throwing the dice and hoping to get lucky. So, advantage Obama.

On an unrelated note, you think either one will help lift restrictions on internet poker if they get elected?

dEMOBRAT   July 3rd, 2008 5:17 pm ET

Barack hob knobbing with the Washington insiders again,
' Obama and three other state senators made up the core of a weekly bi-partisan poker game that often included lobbyists and bank, insurance and utilities agents.'

Who is this guy, Really?

A negger   July 3rd, 2008 5:18 pm ET

"A pair of jokers is a losing hand for America no matter how you place your bets."

How long did it take you to think of that, Lame?

Becky in Indiana   July 3rd, 2008 5:20 pm ET

McCain is willing to risk America for winning like he risks lots of $$$ does in craps.

Mike in NYC   July 3rd, 2008 5:20 pm ET

(Moderators: Have I been blacklisted? I'm not even getting into moderation now. Send me an email and explain.)

HD   July 3rd, 2008 5:21 pm ET

Next time, Molly and Dan, get yerselves on the ticket for 2012, then see where we end up. Sheesh, have a little imagination.

Richardson for V.P   July 3rd, 2008 5:22 pm ET

molly..

why don't you just get out of here!!! hillary's a thing of the past, and nobody cares a thing about her little unsuccessful run anymore. she's a loser who's toxic game plan didn't work,so why don 't you,hillary,bill, and the rest of you undercover racist, and bitter jerks take off. don't you know that the real majorities guy is about to be president, and we don't need all that negative aura bothering us?

Janey/Michigan   July 3rd, 2008 5:22 pm ET

For once, CNN, funny article–I am glad they are both human–watch the negative people make something of this ! Happy 4th of July. McCain for Pres!

mitchell hussein martin   July 3rd, 2008 5:22 pm ET

i like craps,but i dont like mcsame!

Chryssa   July 3rd, 2008 5:24 pm ET

Here's another difference: Obama bets his own money, while McCain gambles away all of ours.

sarah   July 3rd, 2008 5:24 pm ET

Willy-

I am not sure why you feel the need to post "POTUS is not an affirmative action position" on every item in the ticker.

Obama is an inspiring and effective politician that created a huge following, regardless of race. And he will likely be the next president, regardless of race.

It's unfortunate that you can't see past the color of his skin. Millions of other Americans can and will.

WoMaN4McCain   July 3rd, 2008 5:26 pm ET

To Molly….you are just a sore loser because Obama beat your queen fair and square. McCain would have beaten her anyway in Nov. so what is your gripe? I'm just so sick and tired of you Hillary whiners still going on and on about this. GET OVER IT. GET A CLUE. Your queen was dethroned PUMA tard. sheesh. I am glad that you want to support McCain though. Sounds like you might possibly have a little bit of sense now that you're not drinking the Clinton kool aid.

Agnes   July 3rd, 2008 5:27 pm ET

In another game of strategy, it is the queen who has the power to move and shake things up…. Hillary is by far the better choice!

PCS / North Carolina   July 3rd, 2008 5:27 pm ET

Molly wrote July 3rd, 2008 3:57 pm ET

"obama is a Total FRAUD!!!!
Rev Wright was RIGHT - "Obama will say whatever he has to - he is a Politician"! Sure BET the DNC is sorry they picked the WRONG guy - he will Never win the white house.
Senator Clinton is the best qualified to lead our country
McCain 2nd choice - Never obama"

McCain is THE TOTAL FEUD !! = warmonger
Rev Haggi was right - McSame will say whatever he has to = He is a warmonger. Bet the GOP picked the wrong Old guy to run the white house = will you allow a 72yr old to drive your car ? let alone the country !!
Senator Clinton's qualification is being a Ex- Presidents Wife (Clinton name recognition).
If DNC's PUMA and the WVWV (Women Vote Women Voice) by racial alliance to McSame, ruins Obama's chance of becoming the president, there would not be a women President ever.

Vote McCain if you love:
Bomb Iran and North Korea
The Draft
War in Iraq for 100yrs
Tax cuts to the wealthiest 1%
Job losses due to job outsourcing to China / India, NAFTA (Canada / Mexico) —- PA, OH voters you will repent this only chance 5yrs from now.
Health care by Market forces !! - McCain must be dillusional / Demented !! when 49million American do not have medical Insurance, He has Medicare, Millitary insurance, Senate insurance and doesn't seems to understand the basics of medical needs for the americans. Medical Care is a basic Human right , not a comodity like it is been potrayed by the GOP neocons.

VOTE MCSAME and say goooood bye AMERICA, Fly to CHINA / INDIA or MiDEAST to find your next Job. WE ARE IN A RECESSION. MAKE YOUR VOTING DESICION WISELY OR THIS MAY BE THE LAST TIME YOU ALL WILL HAVE VOTING POWER. BECAUSE OUR COUNTRY WILL BE OWNED BY CHINEASE, INDIANS AND MID EAST OIL BARONS.

Monica for Obama in Indiana   July 3rd, 2008 5:29 pm ET

This tells us, Obama is the right one to vote for

Abe Schenck   July 3rd, 2008 5:30 pm ET

this is so lame.

Nick - Arlington, VA   July 3rd, 2008 5:35 pm ET

Willy July 3rd, 2008 4:06 pm ET

POTUS is not an Affirmative Action position.
——————————————————————————-
-you're an absolute racist.

larry mn   July 3rd, 2008 5:38 pm ET

McCain would be a poor decision maker, humm, seems to me he made the right decision to be in Columbia when he was, and that says a lot for who he is and what he stands for, let's see where exactly was the other guy while McCain was in Columbia, safe on US soil. Maybe he's not much of a gambler.

Cryos   July 3rd, 2008 5:38 pm ET

Lol Capt. Smash. You are a poster child of the power of media. You took to the intent of this article hook, line and sinker.

I love the fact that McCain has more proof of bipartisanship. Since based on the facts it is hard to deny now is media going to try to question his intention of bipartisanship? I love it. The media is non-stop amusement.

linda from South Dakota   July 3rd, 2008 5:39 pm ET

i agree,, daggnabitt,,, mccain has more problems that need curbin so how can he take on this position and win?? he cnt thats why,, between his temper and ignorance,,, hes a total loser,,, why would people want him as president when he will raise that taxes on which he doesnt care,, his taxes are paid for,, as for his fraud in info from his military backround,, well he cant back out of this one, its online here if you just do the search and find and read it,,,, as for his age,, well thats a given,, hes wayy too old,,, cant make sane decisions,, go obama!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Bob PDX   July 3rd, 2008 5:40 pm ET

Wow - McCain prefers a game which is solely based on the luck of the dice while Obama prefers a game infused with strategy.

Says plenty.

RandomGuy   July 3rd, 2008 5:40 pm ET

Um…since when is craps a "high risk" game? It's the game that actually gives you the best odds…

In any case, one of them knows how to manage their gambling. One of them blows thousands "for camaraderie", the other has an established limit of $3 raises.

Abe   July 3rd, 2008 5:41 pm ET

Grandpa McCain who can't remember what he said 5 minutes prior, and then changes stance 5 minutes later. Trying his best to compete, looking like 100 year old beef. Frustrated, mad, with no vision of the future. More of the same, John" Bush" McCain.

4obama   July 3rd, 2008 5:41 pm ET

i love that you GOP-KADA's have nothing other than Dr. Rev. Wright to use to criticize Obama…used to get upset about it until i realized that you never listened to the whole sermon…just what suited your needs

you keep bring him up but you never want to talk about Pastor Parsley who McCain sought vigerously…why is that? kind a GOPocritical.

Sick of Bush!   July 3rd, 2008 5:42 pm ET

What in the world do you think McBush is??? He's just as much, or more, of a politician then Obama is! I guess racism really does blind people of looking at the record. All you have to do is look at all the mess the Republicans have done in these 8 years for anyone who isn't rich and powerful! Como se dice, "BLIND, BLIND, BLIND!!"

Poker players plays with skill and caution.

Crap players love to risk what they can afford to lose!!!

Sick of Bush!   July 3rd, 2008 5:43 pm ET

What in the world do you think McBush is??? He's just as much, or more, of a politician then Obama is! I guess racism really does blind people of looking at the record. All you have to do is look at all the mess the Republicans have done in these 8 years for anyone who isn't rich and powerful! Como se dice, "BLIND, BLIND, BLIND!!"

Poker players play with skill and caution.

Crap players love to risk what they can afford to lose!!!

Bishop   July 3rd, 2008 5:44 pm ET

get lost Molly…

TonyinKentucky   July 3rd, 2008 5:44 pm ET

America cannot afford to gamble on a 3rd Bush term or even a 6th Reagan administration.

A vote for McCain is a vote for more of the same and the (American) house looses. BIG TIME!

Silence DoNoGood   July 3rd, 2008 5:44 pm ET

I like a political crap shooter with everything out in the open rather than a poker player that hides true intentions. At least McCain has experience behind his high stakes matches. We would all do well to remember that John is also a moderate who puts country before party. A fact that has not endeared him to some of his own. So, no experience, no vote. McCain this year for this lifelong democrat (now independent). McCain 08′
PUMA

Richard, FL   July 3rd, 2008 5:45 pm ET

Ex-Hillary supporters voting for McCain should tell us why they don't trust her or her judgement when she endorses Obama.

John   July 3rd, 2008 5:45 pm ET

What a brilliant microcosm of the mentalities of the candidates: Obama will take calculated risks and McCain will take risks, proverbial and literal crapshoots.

save yourself   July 3rd, 2008 5:46 pm ET

alright

i used to like reading the blogs for the opinions of others for enjoyment and different political perspectives however i see that a rash of republicans and hillary supporters are taking over them on this website and completely polluting and blowing their perspectives way out of proportion, even with the small news. people save yourselves this is political nonsense.

S Callahan Capital District New York   July 3rd, 2008 5:46 pm ET

I go for the card player who has to 'think' about his move before it's made….than just 'shoot' the crap'…….

Chuck   July 3rd, 2008 5:47 pm ET

$3 dollar pots? Are you kidding me? Even a poor college kid bets more then that on a poker hand.

joeD   July 3rd, 2008 5:48 pm ET

love it when McCain backers pretend to be Hillary lovers who are setteling for McCain. As for me, I was all for Rudy, but now I'm for Obama. Anybody but McCain. We don't need another "Maverick" in the White House.

Griff   July 3rd, 2008 5:50 pm ET

it takes a Spade, to know a Spade!!!

Former Hillary supporter for Obama   July 3rd, 2008 5:51 pm ET

Yep, McCain sure can relate to all us little people.

Must be nice to be able to play craps with every bet in the thousands.

Dennis   July 3rd, 2008 5:52 pm ET

Both candidates are the bottom of the barrel. I for one really wanted Gore to run.

Country before party   July 3rd, 2008 5:54 pm ET

President Clinton has already warned us, that Obama is "a roll of a dice".

David Newport, OR   July 3rd, 2008 5:56 pm ET

people like Molly need to take a holiday. Go roast a hot dog on the BBQ…splurge and add an ear of corn. Kick back and drink a couple of beers.

bob in L.A.   July 3rd, 2008 5:58 pm ET

Sounds about right- McCain - crap and Obama- a bluffer!

Raymond Duke   July 3rd, 2008 5:59 pm ET

Just goes to show you. What I have been saying . a couple of idiots that shouldn't even be on the ticket. George looks like a genuis compared to these two.

Len   July 3rd, 2008 6:00 pm ET

by the time the card player decides. it is too late.

Do you really what an indecisive inexperience person to get that call at 3:00AM?

Alex   July 3rd, 2008 6:01 pm ET

Poker is about strategy and knowing your opponent, while craps is about luck and it's the player vs the dice, no one else. Considering the line of work they're heading into, I'd rather see someone who knows strategy rather than someone who literally relies on crapshoots.

DEMOCRAT   July 3rd, 2008 6:01 pm ET

Low news day??????????????

Phil, FL   July 3rd, 2008 6:07 pm ET

And if McC wins, he will play high stakes with the lives and money of this entire country.

No thanks.

A friendly $3 game is a lot different from the high-stakes crap McC wants to do.

K   July 3rd, 2008 6:08 pm ET

Figures, you have to be smart to be a good poker player, but anyone with a huge bank account(thanks to his wife) can role the dice and hope for the best

Do we want someone who is smart and calculated or someone who is going to role the dice and gamble with Americas future?

boered1   July 3rd, 2008 6:08 pm ET

Molly the liar hillary lost for a good reason and she will NEVER serve as presidnet get that through your silly rock of a head!

I do find the look at the two candidates personalities, as reflected by the game of chance they prefer, an interesting insight. McCain is a fast pace all in and hope for the best type of guy, typical of most pilots I knew in the military, jump first ask questions later confident (some say cocky) in their ability and willing to risk themselves and everyone around them for the thrill of winning. Where as Obama is the type who prefers to control his risk, to think before he leaps and to trust in himself to be able to take a small loss to get the larger win. For me, and me alone, I prefer the thinker and slower response to the quick "gut response" as a leader, I have witnesses our country being run by someone who operates of "gut response" (I looked into Putins eyes and know he was a good man) and it scares me more than any leader who will not risk it all in a do or die situation. One who can see both sides and be willing to accept less than everything to keep form getting nothing.. I prefer Obama's reasoning

David Goldman   July 3rd, 2008 6:08 pm ET

HERE IS A QUICK EVALUATION FOR YOU.

OBAMA USES STRATEGY & THOUGHT & WINS, & WINS.

MCSAME GAMBLES & CRAPS OUT, & CRAPS OUT.

Peter E   July 3rd, 2008 6:09 pm ET

And the number of CNN stories talking about issues or the candidate's stance and record on them today: zero!

Rob K   July 3rd, 2008 6:09 pm ET

Hey Willy! Your affirmative action comment is a bunch of racist garbage!!!! Nobody is handing Obama anything because of his race. Like other trailblazers before him (Jackie Robinson, Thurgood Marshall, etc etc etc) he's earning it with a wealth of intelligence and skill, and Solomon-like patience. And, just like those others, he's having to do it while proving himself in ways that us white folks don't have to.

Compare THAT to a McCain, the admiral's son who had his way paved for him.

Montana is Obama Country   July 3rd, 2008 6:09 pm ET

"McCain is a heavy-betting" (YES, he can afford too) - "high-energy" ( I seriously doubt that..! ) "craps man" ( with crap being the operative word)

Georgia   July 3rd, 2008 6:13 pm ET

I can't vote for either one. Ralph Nader '08

al   July 3rd, 2008 6:13 pm ET

************************************

NOBODY PLAYS SCRABBLE ANYMORE? MONOPOLY? CHESS?

Peter E   July 3rd, 2008 6:13 pm ET

Playing craps involves knowing the odds. You have higher chance of making money in craps (if you know what you're doing) than in roulette, blackjack, or poker.
Poker involves some strategy (depending on which version of it you play) but mostly bluffing. You can win with a single pair if you can just bluff your way through. If there are no limits on betting one can also just buy their way out of a bad hand.

Kind of fitting about the campaigns of these two candidates…

James Hussein, SC   July 3rd, 2008 6:14 pm ET

Dumb! Simply dumb!

There goes another lost home. There goes another lost job; and all that CNN can do is talk about what two people do in THEIR free time.

james   July 3rd, 2008 6:16 pm ET

McCain's other vice is that he's a womanizer.
He cheated on his wife many times.
Cindy is a Homewrecker, sleeping with a married man.

These are not the people with morals I want in the White House.

velmeezee   July 3rd, 2008 6:18 pm ET

lol, people are funny, judging who would make the best president by how he likes to gamble! Is there no other way to decide? Oh well, of course Obama makes the better candidate in this view as well as all the other - more substantial- contrasts between the two candidates. Even though the haters will probably say that poker is a game of deceit so of course Obama would like that, and atleast McCain is honest if dumb.

Peter E   July 3rd, 2008 6:22 pm ET

Obviously people don't understand craps, poker, or gambling for that matter.
High stakes doesn't automatically mean low odds. In fact, craps tends to go high stakes because it has better odds than all other green-table games. Playing that game invloves knowing the odds.
Poker might be slower paced, and, depending on its version involves some strategy, but it still has relatively low odds. Once again, if you know what's you're doing you bet the odds, just like in craps. The only difference is that in poker you can play the bets themselves by bluffing your way through a bad hand.

Peter of Oregon   July 3rd, 2008 6:23 pm ET

wow…

Allen from Hartwell, GA   July 3rd, 2008 6:23 pm ET

I'd much rather have a president who plays cards for fun with friends than someone who risks anything of value. We've already seen what happens when a president plays risky games with someone else's money and lives.

Zachary   July 3rd, 2008 6:23 pm ET

I am shocked I still see Hillaryites on these blogs. She's a great lady but you people are f-ing nuts. Give it a rest.

sadie 47 yr white woman   July 3rd, 2008 6:25 pm ET

Agree — molly (see above) is totally in left field. And…let's say it….get real…..she sounds pretty darn racist. I would question is "she" really is a woman — or rather an angry republican just trying to stir the pot. Move on…or at least try to be productive!

Unlike most of us who are just trying to buy milk — McCain throwns away thousand on entertainment. How is he going to gamble with the money i pay in taxes? More wars? More tax breaks for the oil companies?

Obama 08

Peter E   July 3rd, 2008 6:25 pm ET

I guess the knee-jerk left will immediately translate 'high stakes' as meaning the same as 'low odds,' when those two are different concepts. High stakes is about the amount of money you bet. Odds describes your chance of winning. Craps in fact has way better odds than poker, if one knows what they're doing and bet the odds smart.

But I guess the knee-jerkers already made up their mind and I'm talking to a wall…

Peter E   July 3rd, 2008 6:31 pm ET

You know if it was a republican senator reported to have played weekly poker with 'lobbyists, and bank, insurance and utilities agents' the left would be screaming for investigation into corruption!
But double-standards are the rule of the day…

Peter E   July 3rd, 2008 6:36 pm ET

Obama will walk away with your money alright… with your taxpayer money! His solution to the ecnomy in fact is to take your money from you and tax tax tax…

chris in va   July 3rd, 2008 6:36 pm ET

Sure Johnn McCain is a high roller at the craps table. It's easy to gamble with someone else's money, or with the lives of someone else's children.

Southern gal   July 3rd, 2008 6:37 pm ET

That's very telling of the CHARACTER of Obama and McCain.

One who is a heavy better, high energy craps man who goes for the big stakes is the kind of person who is willing to "risk anything" in order to win. Not my kind of guy!

However, one who plays Poker indicates that he's a good thinker…one who is willing to take the time to work out the best strategy in a given situation.

I'll go for the calm Thinker.

pam Eugene OR   July 3rd, 2008 6:38 pm ET

Molly 2nd post
You sound so bitter and angry. You need to get a life and calm down a bit. Hillary lost fair and square and that's that! I can just feel the hate coming from you post. I can tell you for sure that Barack does not lay awake nights because you hate him Molly. You need to dial it down and just stay off the blogs with all you venom.
Obama 08 Learn to live with it Molly!

IYIYI   July 3rd, 2008 6:39 pm ET

There is a HUGE difference between playing low stakes poker as more of a social activity vs betting thousands of dollars on a game that you cannot overcome the house advantage. Sounds like a judgement issue to me. I do concede if I had a sugarmama, I would probably be warped into thinking that throwing away thousands of dollars is an ok thing to do, its not really my money so who cares? The difference is I am not running for president where I would have access to trillions of dollars of other peoples money. Hmmmmmm

Sunshine from University of Florida   July 3rd, 2008 6:40 pm ET

So, why don't we all give John Mccain our money and let him gamble with it. At least Romney knew about the economy. McCain is the worst choice we could have made. He wants to appeal to the wetbacks and gays, but won't appeal to the conservative base.

Drew NJ   July 3rd, 2008 6:46 pm ET

…Does this really matter? Except for religious extremists, almost everyone gambles.

Peter E   July 3rd, 2008 6:46 pm ET

Obama: bluffs his way through and takes your money.
McCain: plays the odds and gives you money.

Also notice the phrase 'poker game that often included lobbyists and bank, insurance and utilities agents.' I notice none of the liberals here addressed that. And you can bet (no pun intended) if that phrase appeared for a republican senator they'd be rabidly screaming foul and calling for an indictment…

chris in va   July 3rd, 2008 6:52 pm ET

Amazing to me how anyone can say "Hillary Clinton or John McCain" as Molly has professed. These two pols are at OPPOSITE ends of the political spectrum. The only thing that they have in common is that they are both white…….OOOOOHHHHH, now I understand.

A nightingale Sings in Berkley Square   July 3rd, 2008 6:54 pm ET

Hey don't gamble with my future.

BTW, this guy, Obama, has to the idiot of all times.. What does he think will happen, if we unilaterally pull out of Iraq in haste. He has no sense.

Iraq will become easy pickings for Iran to send their terrorists into Iraq and create the kind of atmosphere that some countries found themselves in during the great Blitz Krieg of 1939 -1940 ie Norway, Denmark, Poland, Belgium and Holland to name a few. Hitler wanted to protect these countries from outside enemies and overthrew their legal governments. Iran would do the same to Iraq in a heartbeat.

Let's not let the liberal senator recreate history and lose this valuable resource to the western world.

Give me a break send Obama packing back his ultra liberal roots.

No Mcain   July 3rd, 2008 6:58 pm ET

Bush didn't even gamble with our United States…he merely fed it all to the dogs. Now McBush wants to pick up the scraps and finish everything else off with a bomb.

Joe the Troll   July 3rd, 2008 6:59 pm ET

Why are Republicans still coming here pretending to be Hillary supporters? Do they think we haven't seen through that petty, manipulative, and frankly desperate move?

ima Dolt   July 3rd, 2008 7:06 pm ET

I would crush Obama in a game of poker, espcecially if I cheated him the way he cheated America when he flew those airplanes around.

Nate   July 3rd, 2008 7:08 pm ET

I bet McCain would beat Obama any day. Obama would be too timid.

Robert from Oakland, CA   July 3rd, 2008 7:09 pm ET

I didn't think too much of this ticker article at first glance, but I actually do believe this speaks volumes (negatively) about John McCain.. really hard to deny that gut feeling - do i want a high stakes craps player running the country i'm raising my children in at _this_ critical hour of our nations history?

… NO _WAY_.

Zach   July 3rd, 2008 7:14 pm ET

I'd rather have a strategic poker player for a president than a go lucky craps player, that's for sure.

And if Obama is a stereotypical poker player and McCain is a stereotypical craps player, than George W. Bush is definitely working the slots. It's going to be hard to lose in this election given what we've had for the past eight years.

Hispanic For McCain   July 3rd, 2008 7:14 pm ET

For all the Liberals Dem on this Forum GUESS WHAT McCain is going to win the Latinos votes. That right the Hispanic people are NOT stupid they do NOT trust OBAMA. That right don't trust OBAMA he John McCain will get TONS AND TONS of Hispanic votes. LATINOS you know a true American Hero is and that is John McCain. Puertoriquenos con McCain. Los Mexicanos con McCain, Los Cubanos con McCain, Y TODOS los Latinos con McCain. So Liberals face the facts this is the year latinos will decide the race!!!!!!. for McCain!!!!!

Lilah   July 3rd, 2008 7:19 pm ET

So McCain is a wreckless gambler who loses thousands of dollars at a time. Yep, that's precisely the guy I want for president! Craps man, indeed.

TJ   July 3rd, 2008 7:24 pm ET

More personality-based drivel from CNN. Sadly, these are the kinds of issues people use to decide who to vote for. Once again, CNN lowers the bar for journalistic integrity. We might as well read the Enquirer or the Weekly World News.

Mike in NYC   July 3rd, 2008 7:27 pm ET

(I'll bet some intern fresh out of college is deciding who gets on this board and who doesn't.

What are you afraid of? "Sunshine" used the term "wetback". He gets on and I don't? I never, ever use slurs. Count on it.)

seanm   July 3rd, 2008 7:31 pm ET

McCain gambles thousands of dollars per roll…yeah that will make him look like an everyday joe, and will endear him to Christian conservatives…

Maxine   July 3rd, 2008 7:35 pm ET

Mccain will be the worst person for President because it will be more of the same Please this country can'nt afford another Bush term. Please People just look at this economy and if Mccain is elected for President we the will be sorry.

RJ, CA   July 3rd, 2008 7:36 pm ET

Loved the bumper sticker I saw yesterday:

ANNOY THE LIBERALS
Work — Succeed — Be Happy!

rexx   July 3rd, 2008 7:38 pm ET

CNN this really is about the stupidest thing you have written about this race. And that says a lot with all the stupid things you clowns write

Ian M   July 3rd, 2008 7:40 pm ET

At least Obama plays a thinking game. McCain just throws the dice and hopes for the best. Exactly what he's going to do with this country if he gets elected.

Mosh   July 3rd, 2008 7:41 pm ET

if hillary is the queen, mccain is the king…. but obama is the ace. he won with aces over queens and he will win with aces over kings.

poker players are usually strategy oriented people and are rarely gambling on other games. however, obama's aces held up against hillary's queens and will hold up against mccain's kings

Wayne   July 3rd, 2008 7:41 pm ET

Anyone voting for McSame is mentaly ill. What changes would that old man bring to america? none

McSame has no clue himself what he stands for accept his quest for war.

McCain: My friends, I know Americans are hurting, high gas prices, homes lost, jobs lost, high food prices, lives lost. I know all about these things my friends.
Reporter: How do you suggest fixing it if you are president?

McCain: Uhhhhh well, gotta go, I'm late for a meeting with the Sunis or Shiites, I can't remember which one is on our side.

Oh well my friends, lets bomb them all!

Kathy in Oregon   July 3rd, 2008 7:42 pm ET

Molly — I could not have said it better!

You are NOT alone…many out here share your opinion. Obama and his camp are in for a big surprise come November.

Mosh   July 3rd, 2008 7:43 pm ET

obama is a grinder who slowly builds up his stack, and that turned out to be the winning strategy (not only in poker, but also in politics)

Brenda   July 3rd, 2008 7:44 pm ET

Molly, Mrs. Clinton is done. Get over it. And I wouldn't count Senator Obama out. By the way, are you republican?

Independant , FL   July 3rd, 2008 7:45 pm ET

Obviously, the media is not doing it's job if Mccain and Obama are almost even on a flip-flopping poll. To go back on Public financing just makes common sense when you are the unknown candidate and 10% of americans still think you are a muslim. Obama needs the extra money to introduce him self to the voting public. To say tax cut for the wealthy offend your conscience and then change your mind about your conscience is a character issue. Obama changes in position are minuscule in compared to McCain. Even if you think Obama flip-flops you can only point to a couple things.On the other hand:

MCcain flip-flops:
*flip-flopped on finance reform during the primary
*Bush tax cuts for the wealthy
*would vote against McCain-Feingold immigration bill(yes McCain as in John McCain)
*would stay in Iraq 100 years, changed to would be out by 2013
*against offshore drilling , for offshore drilling
* called the religious right, agents of intolerance,then asks for there endorsement, and then rejected there endorsements
*attacked Obama for be willing to meet with our enemies, yet he said , in 2006 on video we should be willing to engage Hamas
*there is the thing about caring for the environment, yet saying we need more nuclear plants and need to drill off shore. (I know if it qualifies as a flip-flop but it sure is contradictory

Hobo Joe   July 3rd, 2008 8:00 pm ET

"VOTE NOBAMA IN NOVEMBER"

Vivienne   July 3rd, 2008 8:13 pm ET

I prefer a thinking man to a man who delights at crapping out.

The Surly Scholar   July 3rd, 2008 8:19 pm ET

Heh. Well, I don't know exactly how much we can infer about the candidates' character from their gambling behavior, but I guess it is kind of telling.

It certainly doesn't make McCain seem any better, but I think we've all seen by now that he's not quite playing with a full deck, to invoke a relevant idiom.

Michael   July 3rd, 2008 8:26 pm ET

This story is important why? I live in Nevada, gaming is an everyday thing, like this matters here.

Molly:
You love to argue, however White House is a proper noun and should be capitalized. The word never is an adverb so I am curious it is capitalized but not White House. Last point, what basis in fact do you have for your speculation that Senator Obama is a fraud, I have seen nothing to suggest he is a fraud. Do you know something the rest of the world does not?

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