July 8, 2008
Posted: July 8th, 2008 02:01 PM ET

From
Obama campaigned in Georgia Tuesday.
Obama campaigned in Georgia Tuesday.

POWDER SPRINGS, Georgia (CNN) – Barack Obama on Tuesday rejected recent allegations that he has changed his position on Iraq since effectively claiming the Democratic nomination.

When asked by a self-proclaimed “reformed Republican” at a campaign rally about charges that he is flip-flopping on his pledge to get troops out of Iraq within 16 months, Obama replied, “The people who say this apparently haven’t been listening to me.”

Obama listed positions “that make me progressive and squarely in the Democratic camp,” and denied his views had shifted at all since becoming the presumptive Democratic nominee, adding that more centrist positions like his support of faith-based initiatives and an individual’s right to bear arms are long-held beliefs.

Obama then summarized his position on Iraq, repeating his position that if elected, he will withdraw 1-2 brigades per month, completing a total withdrawal over the course of “about 16 months.”

The Illinois senator started a firestorm last week when he said a visit to Iraq would allow him to “refine” his policies. Critics said he was backing off the 16-month deadline.

“When I hear John McCain saying ‘we can’t surrender,’ ‘we can’t wave the white flag’– nobody’s talking about surrendering. We’re talking about common sense. We can not be there forever,” said Obama. “I am going to bring this war to an end. So don’t be confused.”

Obama continued the week’s economic theme in Tuesday morning’s speech by laying out his platform to fight personal bankruptcies that arise from health care costs, long military deployments and natural disasters, among other causes.

“These bankruptcies aren’t happening on their own,” said Obama, “they reflect an underlying economy that is weak. To address the rising bankruptcy rate at its source, we have to make long-term investments to strengthen our economy.”

Obama continued his efforts to tie McCain to President Bush’s economic policies, telling the crowd he “cannot wait” to have a debate about taxes.

“A McCain Administration would mean a fiscal Groundhog Day in Washington,” said Obama. “You remember that movie, Groundhog Day? He kept on waking up and the same thing happened over and over and over again.”

Filed under: Barack Obama


mountain man   July 8th, 2008 5:03 pm ET

This guy is talking out of both sides of his mouth! He was quick to slam Hillary for this kind of stuff, so much for the politcs of change!

Voter from Minnesota   July 8th, 2008 5:02 pm ET

The worst flip-flopper I've ever seen in politics. Hillary, please run.

Sharon   July 8th, 2008 5:01 pm ET

I agree with Lynn B. comments and Mike from Syracuse. You both are right on.

Anonymous   July 8th, 2008 5:00 pm ET

OBAMA POSITION:-
REFINE WITHDRAWAL STRATEGY .....FOR THE GOOD OF THE USA.............
REFINE HIS ECONOMIC POLICY .....FOR THE GOOD OF THE USA .......
REFINE HIS HEALTH CARE PLAN.....FOR THE GOD OF THE USA REFINE THE US IMAGE IN THE WORLD.....FOR THE GOOD OF THE USA ..
THE WORD HAS TWO PARTS..RE ...FINE AND THAT IS VERY FINE ......VOTE FOR A REFINEMENT AND CHANGE ...OBAMA 08 ...............THE ONLY THING THAT MCCAIN WANTS TO REFINE IS OIL .....FOR THE GOOD OF BIG OIL ...
THE BOTTOM LINE IS RE – FINE =BETTER THAT IS BETTER CHANGE ...NEW OBAMA SLOGO
( REFINEMENT REFORM AND CHANGE ) ...
PS ..PUMA SUCKS

al   July 8th, 2008 5:00 pm ET

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

EVERYBODY CLEAR ON THAT?
SHUT-UP FOR A SECOND AND LISTEN.

REPUBLICANS MACHINE ARE DOING WHAT THEY DO EVERY ELECTION. TRYING TO ACCUSE THE OTHER OF WHAT THEY ARE.

WHOS THE FLIP-FLOPPER?
NO DRILL TO DRILLING
NO TAX BREAK TO TAX BREAK

WHOS THE BIG SPENDER?
WAR IN IRAQ

WHOS HAS MORE VALUES?
NEVER TOUCH ON THIS ONE BECAUSE WE ALL KNOW THEY CAN'T DEPEND MCCAIN ON THIS.

ENOUGH SAID.

STOP THE MADNESS. VOTE OBAMA.

disagreement is not hate   July 8th, 2008 4:59 pm ET

To P, Ca who posts: #1 statement coming out during the primaries: "I'm for Hillary because I can't stand how rude/hateful the Obama supporters are." and who now claims we HRC supporters are guilty of the same.

I have never posted any filth or vulgar sexually or racially explicit putdowns of other Americans. Nor do I post lies. Nor do I resort to any name-calling.

We do not denigrate, demean nor debase you. We state our opposition to HOW Hill was forced to lose- not that she lost.

PROMISING THAT WE WILL NEVER VOTE FOR OBAMA BASED ON HIS LACK OF CHARACTER AND LACK OF QUALIFICATIONS AND LACK OF EXPERIENCE AND THE TYPE OF CAMPAIGN HE WAGED-

THAT is not being hateful. That is stating a fact and opinion without any belittling of any fellow democrat.

Jenna   July 8th, 2008 4:59 pm ET

He clearly was backing out of his committment, I just cant believe anything he says now, he just keeps fliping back and forth. Same old Politics, he will say one thing to get elected and then say well things have changed and I had to refine my position. Just like his Rev. Wright speeches.... Whatever I am sick of it.

Jenna

beth - florida   July 8th, 2008 4:59 pm ET

Call it flip-flopping or whatever you want... I'm just curious to see how many of you (who voted for Obama in the primaries) would have voted for Hillary instead. Knowing what you know today, that Obama has changed some of his position on issues. Does anybody out there regret voting for Obama, If so please speak up...

wycliffe, NJ   July 8th, 2008 4:59 pm ET

do not underestimate the heart of obama...willingness to withdraw troops in 16 months.

refined sugar is still sugar

obama 08

mitchell hussein martin   July 8th, 2008 4:58 pm ET

ARB: only a liar cant believe in anyone else.

MARYANN Oswego IL   July 8th, 2008 4:58 pm ET

I will never vote for Barack Obama ..a very sad lifelong democrat....If you live in New York city or Long Island or parts of California and Seattle ...250,000 a year for a married couple is about the same as 50,000 a year for a couple in parts of Iowa and South Carolina...The top 3% earners should be taxed Mr.Obama do your homework like Hillary does....250,000 income sometimes is RICH depending on where you live.......I cannot and will not ever TRUST the OBAMA's

STILL FOR HILL   July 8th, 2008 4:57 pm ET

I am so sick of seeing "Montana is Obama Country"...How many non-profits are centered in Montanta?

I think it is more like "Montana is Non-Profit Country" and guess what, they've got their hands out for the Obama Tax and Spend agenda.

I'm a democrat, but increasing spending and raising taxes during a recession is just stupid. Do Obama supporters even listen or are they getting all their info from MSNBC?

Hillary 08 or McCain if necessary

BITTER CHRISTIAN CLINGING TO GUN   July 8th, 2008 4:55 pm ET

Obamby is never wrong because he is always on both sides of the issue.

The Truth Shall Set You Free   July 8th, 2008 4:54 pm ET

One could make the case that Barack Obama is not a flip-flopper.
One first must actually take a definite stand or flip before one can flop.

alone in VT   July 8th, 2008 4:53 pm ET

Well, no I am not listening to him, so I guess for once he's right!!!!!

Ben (Eugene, OR)   July 8th, 2008 4:52 pm ET

Hmmm......I don't know if anyone watched the democratic primary debates last year. During the debates, Hillary and Obama were arguing about how fast they could (and would) pull troops out of Iraq. I believe they both settled at about 6 months. Only Bill Richarson (NM) told them they were being unrealistic, and that it would take well over a year to do so. He was chastised, and called a liar by the liberal media (even though he has far more experience than both candidates COMBINED). Obama has changed his position dramatically.

First it was 8 months no matter the conditions on the ground
Then it was 6 months no matter the conditions on the ground
–> Wins the Primary
Then it was 16 Months no matter the conditions on the ground

Now, its about 16 months AS LONG AS ITS OK WITH THE LEADERS ON THE GROUND.

hmmm......I think this is sounding like McCain's position....LISTENING to the leaders on the ground....

hmmm......Change???

you betcha, Obama IS a man of CHANGES

Willow, from Iowa   July 8th, 2008 4:52 pm ET

Obama has not flip flopped. On occasion his words have been twisted around and used by McCain, wrongly. We all know what he wants to do for the economy, alternative energy, the iraq war, etc. (even the Iraqis want us out of there in a timely fashion, no 100 years of occupation for them!). However he will be the President of all the people, not just the liberal left. In order to be the People's President, he has to listen to all sides, and figure out how best to help everyone.

I think he's doing great. Obama 08/12

CITIZENS FOR AMERICA FIRST.   July 8th, 2008 4:51 pm ET

IT'S HARD TO BELIEVE, SO MANY AMERICANS DON'T

KNOW WHAT THE WORD "REFINE" MEANS.

IN THIS CASE IT MEANS TO GET ALL THE INFORMATION

NECESSARY, THEN PROCEED WITH THE BEST PLAN.

OBAMA CAN'T PICK AN AFTERNOON, LOAD OUR

250,000 TROOPS AND CALL IT A DAY. THAT IS NOT WHAT

HE EVER PROPOSE. THAT IS NOT WHAT ANY SANE PERSON

WOULD EVER PROPOSE. THAT'S A LOT OF PEOPLE TO MOVE

IN A VERY DANGEROUS ENVIRONMENT.ON THE OTHER HAND

WE CAN ELECT MCMORON & TAKE A 100 YEARS TO DO IT.

Charlotte   July 8th, 2008 4:51 pm ET

I read these blogs and cannot believe some of the things I read. I am a life long democrat, not a republican pretending to be a Hillary supporter. I will write her name on my ballot, as I cannot vote for either of the presumptive nominees. I have voted for a republican because the DNC can be really stupid in who they put up to run for POTUS. This year the GOP and the DNC are stupid. Neither of these candidates impress me. I wish things would have turned out differently, however, I will write Hillary on my ballot in November and pray enough of us do to make a difference. We must vote as it is a freedom I do not take lightly. I have never missed a vote and don't intend to start this year. I urge every voter to vote for the person of their choice, do not stay home. Vote/write in whichever, but show up at the polls...

mitchell hussein martin   July 8th, 2008 4:51 pm ET

john mccain would be the first 72 year-old to win the gold medal in flip-flop olympics.

Brendan H., San Antonio, TX   July 8th, 2008 4:50 pm ET

Funny thing, the Iraqi government called for the same thing yesterday, and now Bush is saying this is in keeping with his plan?

But if Obama says it, he's a flip=flopper; at least Obama is willing to concede that the plan may need modification.

Didn't Bush stand on the deck of a carrier after a dramatic entrance and declare the war over? And was it over?!?!?! I rest my case.

The difference here is vision versus delusion!

sad for party unity   July 8th, 2008 4:50 pm ET

Obama is counting on people's desire for change, the anti-republican sentiment, the bad state of American affairs and being a democrat as the way to win by default.

He figures he can say or do anything at any time because people will still vote for him since they have no choice.

Will you make it so? Or will you vote your conscience? Cynthia McKinney of the GREEN, Ralph Nader, Write in Hill IF it counts in your state, or go with McCain as a last option. JUST DON'T STAY HOME- that will not hurt Obama.

Writing in Hill is best- but it will not count for Hill but go to Obama instead in many states- like NM- so check out state laws prior to using this option.

Independent in Iowa   July 8th, 2008 4:50 pm ET

Ya know, I'm fine with him changing posititions when he sees that he is wrong. We all know Bush will stick to his guns even when he knows he is wrong – we don't want another president like that.

Now, I disagree with him and the faith-based initiatives. No no no no no to religious influence in our government. One religion does not represent the beliefs of all people. This is one flip-flop I'd welcome.

PCC   July 8th, 2008 4:50 pm ET

Obama has always been a flip flooper......This is not news to millions that didn't vote for him.....Obama hasn't kept his word on anything he said he would do in the Primary's ...The only change in Obama is he changes his mind after he gets the votes....What does this tell you he will do ...IF...he's elected...A man is as good as his word and Obama isn't good at his word.....Hillary/ McCain....

Candy West Virginia   July 8th, 2008 4:48 pm ET

Even the wicked repuglicans know Obama has not flip flopped, this is just part of their strategy, to thrash him consistently, because let's face it what other strategy do they have. They keep you focused on Barack so you pay little attention to how horrible their candidate really is. Fortunately other than some brain washed repuglicans and puma babes, no one is buying it. Thank you people for being strong minded and not letting them brain wash you!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

BR   July 8th, 2008 4:48 pm ET

Ignorance must be bliss. What it must be like to be an Obama Kool-Aid drinker. He is still going to provide free beer Fridays right? I thought we were all going to only have 2 day work weeks with Barack Hussein Obama. He keeps saying change, so what is it?

mk   July 8th, 2008 4:47 pm ET

PUMAs = Republicans in disguise

Val, Atlanta, Ga   July 8th, 2008 4:47 pm ET

They can accuse Obama of Flip Flopping, Lying and what ever else I will still continue to have his sign in my yard and I will VOTE for him, Nothing absolutley Nothing could be worst the McBush and George W. Bush They have lied for sure. And McBush has been flip flopping all over the place, nor can he read why would anyone want another uneducated man in the White House, now thats crazy. Anytime I want a good laugh I turn on the TV and hope McBush is on there because when he talk he seems confused as hell.

Tim   July 8th, 2008 4:47 pm ET

McSame is a flip flopper that can't even remember where he stands on anything. He only kicks Bush under the bus when it suits him. He will fund raise with him behind closed doors, but bad mouths him in the light. McSame will lose and then he can go back to the Senate telling war stories. He is so out of touch with reality.

Monica for Obama in Indiana   July 8th, 2008 4:46 pm ET

Obama has not shifted his position on Iraq. The republicans are nit wits to keep on this and the media is a nit wit for keep writing it.

It would be great if Obama and the media looked at Indiana as a swing state. We are more in play than most people think?

Even if this doesn't get posted at least I know someone read it.

Phantom of the Oprah   July 8th, 2008 4:45 pm ET

I don't flip-flop when I say, again, that:

That is what he meant when he spoke about change-

The freedom to change according to what polls best at the moment.

Ask Wright... if this man panders for votes or not...

Actually didn't Obama flip from pro Wright to anti Wright?

And from Anti Hillary to Pro Hillary.

What fun....

He is Also sometimes black and sometimes biracial based on which way the political wind is blowing...

mitchell hussein martin   July 8th, 2008 4:45 pm ET

republicans are so feeble minded to think they can make obama supporters vote for mccain,by using outright lies and dirty rove tactics.so obtuse.

Chuck   July 8th, 2008 4:44 pm ET

"You put your right foot in, you take your right foot out, you do the Hokey Pokey and reject it all about......."

Bulldog   July 8th, 2008 4:44 pm ET

"Well, you know, I'd never say there's 'nothing' or 'never' or 'no way' in which I'd change my mind. Obviously, I'm open to the facts and to reason. And there's no doubt that we've seen significant improvements in security on the ground in Iraq. And our troops, and Gen. [David] Petraeus, deserve enormous credit for that." – Barack Obama on his Iraq withdrawal policy June 6th, 2008

"I have to look at this issue from a broader strategic perspective. And in terms of long-term strategy, I am absolutely convinced that the best thing we can do is to set a clear timetable, tell the Iraqis we are going to start pulling out and do it in a careful fashion." – Barack Obama on his Iraq withdrawal policy June 6th, 2008

"John McCain may like to say he wants to follow Osama bin Laden to the gates of hell, but so far all he's done is follow George Bush into a misguided war in Iraq." – Barack Obama February 28th, 2008

Phantom of the Oprah   July 8th, 2008 4:44 pm ET

That is what he meant when he spoke about change-

The freedom to change according to what polls best at the moment.

Ask Wright... if this man panders for votes or not...

Actually didn't Obama flip from pro Wright to anti Wright?

And from Anti Hillary to Pro Hillary.

What fun....

He is Also sometimes black and sometimes biracial based on which way the political wind is blowing...

Mccain=flipflop   July 8th, 2008 4:44 pm ET

The people that accuse Obama of flip flopping are desperate republicans who will say anything because they know they are with a losing, evil, wicked party who doesn't give a darn about them or their issues. We will not be fooled. Obama never changed his policy on Iraq and funny how Iraq today called for us to set a time line to get out of their country. They want us out but mcwar and bush, the warmongers, don't wanna leave.

Peter E   July 8th, 2008 4:44 pm ET

People, PLEASE read Obama's own website about where he actually stands on issues! Even his own supporters believe in several of these nonsensical myths!
His own website says that he DOESN't plan to withdraw all troops, just ones he dubs as 'combat troops.' We'd still be keeping troops there to 'fight al Quaeda.' Curiously enough that sounds eerily familiar to me... isn't that the same excuse Bush has been using since 2003 in keeping our troops there? That we're 'fighting terrorists?'
Obama 08! Change in your mind only!

interesting   July 8th, 2008 4:43 pm ET

Delusional is really Obama's middle name.

I guess he thinks because he is not listening to his words, then we the people should not listen to his words either.

Just words.... no meaning?

Give me a break. What a fake and phony. Anybody but this knucklehead.

stephanie, Washington   July 8th, 2008 4:43 pm ET

He will do anything to win this election even throwing his pastor under bus, his grandma and lie to his supporters. I don't believe in him anymore.

JB   July 8th, 2008 4:42 pm ET

Barack Obama = snake oil salesman. The man has no standards, ethics or morals – oh wait, he's a liberal guess that's normal.

ARB   July 8th, 2008 4:40 pm ET

obama has never flip-flopped on this issue.obama speaks truth and will make wonderful president.vote obama '08

nnate, OH   July 8th, 2008 4:40 pm ET

Correction: When I wrote "to refine", I meant "to possibly refine"
I don't want anyone to parse my words.

Lesley   July 8th, 2008 4:40 pm ET

Labels, like the most liberal senator, send a message like it is set in stone. Let's stop pigeonholing people so that we can learn what they are really about.

Franky   July 8th, 2008 4:40 pm ET

It ain't that bad. Plus, I've seen worse in our government......WAY WORSE! LOL!!

Dee   July 8th, 2008 4:39 pm ET

I agree Boulder Brian. Obama is alot different than these Republicans running around here. Obama wants to take a loot at all the issues and then make a decision. He wants to create bipartisan coalitions to tackle issues. Republicans and all this flip flop talk that they do is why we are in Iraq in the first place. Republicans tend to go on Kamikazee missions, not obtain stakeholder opinions, and plunge head long into issues without obtaining all the facts. This whole cowboy diplomacy has gotten out of hand.

Obama 08

Roofin Reality, Houston, Tx.   July 8th, 2008 4:38 pm ET

Hey Patriot,
On the welfare front, I think Senator Obama pushed legislation to move people from welfare to work.
After all, for all you folks who think he's a "taxer",
he'd rather get you to work so he can get more of your tax dollars.
Course, now he did propose tax legislation that would DECREASE taxes for everyone under $250,000.

And Phantom, sorry going in reverse order,
if Obama is now pushing Clinton's points (which are totally opposite of McCain), help us less eduated understand why you'd vote for the person who holds the positions opposite of what you want.

Agnes   July 8th, 2008 4:37 pm ET

McBush flip flops all the time. He's just trying to take the attention off of himself.

It's time for the Bush era to come to an end. We do not need nor want an continuation of the Bush's policies.

And......Oh yea..........McBush can't remember anything. Is the straight talk express losing it's bearing?

Robert J.   July 8th, 2008 4:36 pm ET

What is Mc Cain anyway( Republican/ Maverick)? All you haters out there keep hating. Then sit back and watch a movement in this country.
Whenever Obama talks it will be twisted. Just like Florida did in 2000. He will end this war and bring our young men home. Many in otherr countries have done so.Its time for Iraq to stand up! On the issue of flip flop" I'm not too smart when it comes to the economy" then "I have a plan that will balance the Budget in 4 years. Thats BS!!! and I might add pretty floppy economics.

mary cleveland, ohio   July 8th, 2008 4:36 pm ET

The McCain campaign and all the Republican talking heads can beat as many dead horses as they wish. Just goes to show they cannot even recognize a dead horse when they see one. Just clutching at straws for lack of any substance to discuss.

cedarsands   July 8th, 2008 4:35 pm ET

Let's see – Obama rejects, and we should all just accept?
He's so authoritarian, and that's so pre-21st century, don't you think?
/snark/

Jo   July 8th, 2008 4:35 pm ET

He may reject the accusation but that doesn't mean it isn't true. He spent the entire primary season accusing Clinton of saying anything to be elected. It wasn't true but it sure outlined his general election strategy. Whether it is NAFTA, abortion, telecom immunity, lobbyists, he just did not mean any of it.

obama rocks   July 8th, 2008 4:35 pm ET

hey ARB,you can say anything you want mcshame still behind on every poll,bye! mcbush,hello!president obama

Not fooled by distractions   July 8th, 2008 4:34 pm ET

Good job O – you've been consistent from the start, only the whining goppers say differently. If those condemning him actually read through his statements, they'd see they're wrong – instead they choose to remain willfully ignorant, like many on this board it appears.

Looks like the McCain spammers are out in full force -

They have to be spammers, no one actually believes that crock do they?????

Carmen   July 8th, 2008 4:33 pm ET

Obama is a liar and says anything to get vote... what happened to "change"?

This Hillary supporter, her family and friends will never ever vote for Obama... we will be voting for McCain this year. You can attack me all you want since that is what you are best at, but we will never change our minds.

Hillary or McCain

nnate, OH   July 8th, 2008 4:32 pm ET

Wow, my post worked. If you want to follow the link just delete the double slashes in front. Too much frustration today.

obama=underhanded liar   July 8th, 2008 4:31 pm ET

obama is unfit to be president of the United States.

nnate, OH   July 8th, 2008 4:31 pm ET

McCain is under a weak argument when he is going after Obama's Iraq policy. Obama has been consistently offering a 16 month timetable for withdrawal. His decision to speak with the generals to refine his policies, does not change his overall strategy, to withdraw from Iraq. You can gather this from his conversation with General Petraeus on April.

//http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A8fv7CWekXQ

Has this been over a week? It seems like the McCain campaign is beating a dead horse.

Really   July 8th, 2008 4:30 pm ET

I love reading all the Obama disciples trying to defend and justify him. They rip on politics as usual but when Obama gets caught playing the political game, they use past examples to justify it. I have realized that this country is extremely divided. Neither candidate will ever be able to pull us all together. So we need to vote for the guy who is right for this country. McCain is the right guy for the energy crisis. You fix it, and the economy will follow. The Middle East will go away. It is all about Energy. Obama's plan (if you can even call it one) does not offer real solutions to our current situation. It is all lip service.

black is the color of....   July 8th, 2008 4:30 pm ET

He can't wait to have a debate?

He sure was afraid to debate the woman candidate who outshone him in every possible way.

But we wanted black this year.

PUMA   July 8th, 2008 4:29 pm ET

Every OTHER word is a flip and the alternate word is the FLOP.

Mike, Syracuse NY   July 8th, 2008 4:28 pm ET

Obama claims he wants to unite all Americans, including Republicans. Do you Obama supporters think you are doing him or his cause any good by your use of McShame, McBush, McSame, repugs, or other insulting offensive terms? How about if we start calling Obama boy, n-word, etc.? Try raising the level of your discourse above that found in a grammar school argument. Does calling McCain supporters idiots win you any new votes? There are more Independents than either Republicans or Democrats. Right now they are a toss-up as to who they will support. Do you honestly believe that your trash talk will impress them? On second thought, maybe you should just keep it up.

Ex-mod-GOP for Obama   July 8th, 2008 4:28 pm ET

Personally, I think the ability to refine one's positions as new information comes in is a good thing. Wish we had a president like that the past eight years.

all of the sheople but none of the people   July 8th, 2008 4:28 pm ET

Well he calls it "clarifying" his positions.

That ploy works on sheople but not on the people.

But it is not flip-flopping- it is lying.

What do you believe? His former positions or his current ones?

Tim   July 8th, 2008 4:28 pm ET

It's amazing how we can get stuck on a word such as flip-flop and try to saddle on person with it (Senator Obama) and claim the other candidate changed his mind becasue of better information (John McSame). Sorry, can't have it both ways!!! John McSame said we stay there 100 years and now says he didn't mean that, but has no time table for getting us out. He keeps talking about winning. Will someone tell me what we would when when we went in for the wrong reason? What can we wil by staying or lose by withdrawing?

Pepou   July 8th, 2008 4:27 pm ET

These silly women, part of the PUMA gang are really, really pathetic. Hillary has lost ! O.K. ? She is now supportintg Obama. You want to whine for one hundred years and elect McBush for another 4 ? The truth of the matter is that Hillary and Obama are extremely close on many issues (she said so herself !). So stop this nonsense !

Peter E   July 8th, 2008 4:26 pm ET

I don't know who's the bigger liar: the McCain supporter who thinks Obama had different, more liberal views in the past, or the Obama supporter who thinks Obama has those liberal view right now. Obama's policies and record are eerily similar to Bush. He voted to continue funding the Iraq war and advocated against withdrawal timetable in the senate. He is planning on continuing public funding of faith-based group for charitable work, a program Bush started, even expanding on that funding. He supports Bush's controversial No Child Left Behind with 'modifications.' While he criticized NAFTA he doesn't actually want to abolish it but rather 'fix it.' You can read all of these on his own website if you don't believe me!
Obama 08! 'Change...' because people call it that...

DJ, LA, CA   July 8th, 2008 4:26 pm ET

Obama has always said this going back to the 20 debates he had against Clinton and during interviews. He has always said 16 month plan but he wants to pull troops out in a safe, organized manner.

All you cynics have no ground to stand on. Obama is right, you either refuse to listen or simply ignore him out of sheer ignorance.

Love My USA   July 8th, 2008 4:24 pm ET

CHANGE??????? BO – null null – otherwise known as Dr. NO!

"CHANGE"......What I Believe BO's Definition of Change Is!

C = COMMUNISM
H = HATRED
A = ABORTION
N = NEGATIVE
G = GREED
E = ELITISM

"Change" is fleeting! Positive and Negative – Good and Bad. Obama's self-serving "change" born from contempt and controversy, is like a wrecker destroying in a day or two, what it took noble builders – our founding fathers – years to construct.

The tale of the sinister scorpion, mirrors BO's blueprint of deceit.

The scorpion, a poor swimmer, asked the turtle to carry him across the river. "Are you mad?" exclaimed the turtle. "While swimming, you'll sting me and I'll drown."
Laughed the scorpion, "If I sting you, you would drown and I would go down with you. Where is the logic in that?"
"You're right. Hop on!" said the turtle.
Halfway across the river, the scorpion gave the turtle a mighty sting. As they both sank to the bottom, the turtle resignedly asked, "You said there'd be no logic in stinging me. Why did you do it?"
"It has nothing to do with logic," the drowning scorpion replied. "IT'S JUST MY CHARACTER."

MORAL – “IT’S NOT WHAT I SAY, BUT WHAT I DO”

PS: CHANGE can also mean I can CHANGE my mind
LOVE MY USA

TSAH   July 8th, 2008 4:24 pm ET

McFLIPPER is too OLD to Flip – but he's going to FLOP!!! LOL - Right out of the race when Obama becomes president!!!!

I saw it   July 8th, 2008 4:24 pm ET

He can reject it all he wants... there are videos of his shifts in position. Not to mention his hammering HRC over the positions he now has moved into:
NAFTA
IRAQ
Dealing with our enemies.....

ARB   July 8th, 2008 4:24 pm ET

yeah i agree....change for the worst

ozark   July 8th, 2008 4:24 pm ET

Flip Flop is the same code word the Rove Machine used on Kerry in 2004. They still lost the election but managed to fix the "problem" in Ohio. This time they are going to have to fix a lot more than just Ohio.

Obama has always been clear. The premise of his Iraq policy is withdrawal. "I will as careful getting out as this administration was reckless in getting in." He has set a realistic goal of 16 months, but unlike the current occupant of the White House, he understands that the future is frought with ugly surprises. Ergo he will not be forced to never say never. Naturally the Rove/McCain machine has resorted to distortion, trying to say that Obama's policy smells just like theirs. Everyone past the 3rd grade and some CNN commentators knows better.

Chuck   July 8th, 2008 4:23 pm ET

That's what Obama is best at. Straightening everyone out and again clarifying his positions after being accused by the right and some in the media of flip-flopping or saying something he didn't say or intending something he didn't intend. Thank goodness we have a candidate who when falsley accused of something he does not sit on his hands and say nothing. He explains and clarifies. Something new for a political candidate. It's called honesty.

STILL FOR HILL   July 8th, 2008 4:23 pm ET

If Obama wants to set the record straight, why doesn't he debate McCain? Why hasn't he visited our troops in Iraq? Why is he scared to go on FOX news?

No votes for Cowards!

Hillary at the convention, or McCain 08

tactics   July 8th, 2008 4:23 pm ET

He is no longer mocking Hillary... or brushing her off his shoulders... or calling her supporters racists...

Now he is doing that to the Republicans....

So he partially flip-flops on tactics.

George   July 8th, 2008 4:22 pm ET

THIS JUST IN (AP)

"....McCain's proposal to cut corporate tax rates from 35 percent to 25 percent would cut taxes on the top five U.S. oil companies by $3.8 billion a year.

McCain, however, did vote against a 2005 energy bill backed by President Bush, saying at the time that it included billions of dollars in unnecessary tax breaks for the oil industry...."

SOUNDS LIKE SOMEONE LOST HIS BEARINGS!!!

Bulldog   July 8th, 2008 4:22 pm ET

HEADLINE: Iraq Insists US Must Set a Timetable for Withdrawal

"That's not too important. What's important is the casualties." –on when U.S. troops will return from Iraq, " John McCain, Today," NBC, June 11, 2008

"There are neighborhoods in Baghdad where you and I could walk through those neighborhoods today." –McCain prior to visiting a Baghdad market while being flanked by 22 soldiers, 10 armored Humvees, and two Apache attack helicopters

"We're going to prevail and we will win and it'll be one of the best things that's happened to America and the world in a long time 'cause it'll reverberate throughout the Middle East." –John McCain on the Iraq war, "Meet the Press" interview, March 3, 2003

TSAH   July 8th, 2008 4:22 pm ET

You don't make sense "Sheople" – what the heck is a "sheople" anyway – Looks like a "typo" to me!!! LOL

Tammy - KCMO   July 8th, 2008 4:22 pm ET

I would rather have a President that is open to changing his position rather than the one we currently have that insists on staying the course...a course that McCain vows to continue.

I think Obama shows good judgement and willingness to be open to considering other options. This is something the Republicans need to learn how to do if they ever hope to have a chance at ever winning another election.

Rudy NYC   July 8th, 2008 4:21 pm ET

Has the GOP taken advantage of the fact that the goverment is not required to balance the budget during a time of war?

ARB   July 8th, 2008 4:21 pm ET

dont fool yourself its not gonna happen.

NotFallingInLine.org   July 8th, 2008 4:21 pm ET

Obama sure is taking this charge of being a flip-flopper straight on.

He'd say he is a flip-flopper in a heartbeat if Axelrod and his other handlers tell him that he would benefit politically for saying it.

Knoxville NFIL

Phantom of the Oprah   July 8th, 2008 4:21 pm ET

The brown sugar is now white sugar....

Goes down just as well to his cult worshippers.

But Hillary was and still is the only qualified candidate.

So... no to Obama.

Really   July 8th, 2008 4:20 pm ET

He is the man of change. What do you expect?

Peter E   July 8th, 2008 4:20 pm ET

Number one myth about Obama: that he is for ending this war and bringing our troops home. Since he got to the US Senate he has consistently voted in favor of continued funding, and even shouting down fellow democrats when they tried to force Bush with a timetable for withdrawal. If you read Obama's own website he makes it perfectly clear: he plans to wiithdraw all 'combat' troops. He specifically states that this doesn't mean we're withdrawing all troops. We'd be keeping military presence in Iraq to protect our interests and to 'fight al Quaeda.' Sounds familiar? In May of 2003 Bush declared all major combat operations finished ('Mission Accomplished') and ever since then he's been using this 'fighting terrorists' excuse to keep our troops there.
Obama 08! Change in name only...

Rick   July 8th, 2008 4:19 pm ET

Obama campaign..........NO NEW OIL EVER, BUT $6 GALLON GAS, so if you dont drill Obama, how are you lowering the price, and taxing them wont work, because it rolls downhill

fears,lies,dirty tactics,pandering won't work this year...   July 8th, 2008 4:18 pm ET

like it or not change is coming to america,yes it will...
obama 2008-2012

Huckleberry   July 8th, 2008 4:18 pm ET

I was going to vote Obama but now I will vote McCain. He flops more than all the NBA players combined!!!

Luis   July 8th, 2008 4:18 pm ET

That is today....wait till tomorrow, LOL

Pathetic

lisa Asian   July 8th, 2008 4:18 pm ET

this guy has no idea why he can never make people like him by being super smooth in talking.

mitchell hussein martin   July 8th, 2008 4:18 pm ET

@David in Chicago

Maybe you are a Moron yourself. Obama has not done anything for Chicago and you are too naive to notice. How about you go back to your slum of Chicago. Bye the way, Obama will announce the name of his dog soon and its name will be Rezko. :-) Cute isn't it. I would prefer the dog be named David of Chicago though since that's what you are.

THE ONLY DEM who can lose in NOV   July 8th, 2008 4:17 pm ET

Geez.... hello... Obama has even flip-flopped on Hillary and on Bill:

They once were racists but now I see... that they can now surely help me.

Amazing grace! isn't propaganda and having a following of sheople just grand? You can DO anything and still be adored.

TSAH   July 8th, 2008 4:17 pm ET

LISA – The "HILLARY" supporters ARE Republicans – Remember they were told to cross over and vote for her. If you subtract the "republicans" who voted for Hillary – and the racists (who will never vote for Obama) – she will be "no way" near the 18,000,000 votes she thinks she got!!!

The republicans have nothing else to do but find fault in the next President because they know they are going to LOSE!!!!

PUMA = NUTS   July 8th, 2008 4:17 pm ET

I'm with Louisville KY. THEY ARE CRAZY! I just hope PUMA isn't contagious, I'd hate to catch that. It makes you irrational, angry, selfish, childish, vindictive and most of all delusional because you still think the primary season is still here and want to vote for people that aren't even running anymore. Maybe people can avoid catching it by...reading and staying informed. I'll look into that.

Jerry   July 8th, 2008 4:16 pm ET

Wow this the best we could do.... wow wake up people

LT for Obama   July 8th, 2008 4:16 pm ET

Let's be clear about his use of refine. He is going to refine the speed each month within the 16 months. As he said, he may have to slow the withdrawal in some months to secure safe withdrawal. This is still within the 16 months.

If any of you actually listened to OBAMA'S words, you would already know this instead of taking all your cues from the repubs and the MSM who conveniently left out this information but instead jumped on one word and twisted his intentions.

Peter E   July 8th, 2008 4:16 pm ET

Quick, press the 'racist' panic button! That way you can pretend yours is the only argument!

insanity   July 8th, 2008 4:15 pm ET

I am convinced that most republicans are idiots. They seem to be keen on using buzz-words to convey partial information or skewed information.
Buzz-words like, flip-flop, liberal, typical, drilling, gas-tax-cuts, etc, but if you really do your research they make no sense in the context they are being used.

This flip-flop accusation in Iraq is so stupid, that you have to be a moron buy it. Refinement is not change in the context of a flip flop. It's a change to attain the underlying goal in the most optimal way.

We should all pitch in a buy dictionaries for the republican attack-dogs, because it looks like they don't know the meaning of refinement.
Morons!

Just another Obamabot   July 8th, 2008 4:15 pm ET

Flip Flopping...I know it worked well against war hero John Kerry when Bush and McCain used it against him. But understand now that America is wiser and it wants change.
Rev Wright,Bitter-gate,Flip Flopping, whatever, it just doesn't stick folks. Obama is the man!
Let O'reilly,Hannity, and every other bitter ignoramus take Obama right down their gullets!
Thank you Republicans, thank you for all you've done in eight great years but now your turn is up and Obama and the Democrats get to drive. I only hope the mess isn't as big as I think it is because President Obama will need one huge mop.

Peter E   July 8th, 2008 4:15 pm ET

Come on people! Obama has been very consistent on Iraq! He has been consistently propagating this war! He has voted for continued funding, and he has voted against timetable for withdrawal.
In fact, if you read his website he specifically says that he's only going to withdraw 'combat troops' but still keep troops in Iraq to combat terrorists. (which is eerily similar to the same excuse Bush used to keep so many troops there... 'yeah, we're fighting terrorists...')

Entitled cuz he's a bro   July 8th, 2008 4:15 pm ET

He has never flip-flopped on his position that being half black is a qualification for president and thus- no matter what he hasn't done and no matter what he says at the moment– he is entitled to make history.

gary   July 8th, 2008 4:14 pm ET

OBAMA IS THE BIGGEST FLIPFLOPPER AND LIAR. HE THAN MAKES A BIG SPEECH AND GETS ALL YOU BRAINWASHED YOUNG FOLLOWERS KISSING HIS - AGAIN. OBAMA WILL PLAY ANYWAY TO WIN. HE IS ARROGANNT AND STUCK ON HIMSELF. HE IS DIRTIER THAN ANY POLITICIAN THAT HAS EVER RAN FOR PRESIDENT. I HOPE HRC COMES TO HER SCENCES AND TELLS HIM TO POUND SALT AFTER ALL THE HATE HIS FOLLOWERS GAVE HER ,HER FAMILY AND SUPPORTERS.HRC IS IN HER OWN LEAUGE WHICH IS MUCH HIGHER THAN O.B. AMERICA GETS WHAT THEY ASK FOR.

Lim   July 8th, 2008 4:14 pm ET

Alright, for those who are politically challenged and inept:

Flip-flopping involves a sudden reversal of one's position, which clearly Obama is not doing.
He is performing a series of maneuvers that only involves incremental shifts of position.

Obama '08: YES, WE SCAM!

Raymond Duke   July 8th, 2008 4:14 pm ET

I keep hearing some of you people calling Bush a war crinimal. This is an all volunteer army. I know I spent to years as a drafted soldier and 18 years as a volunteer soldier . If you don't use an army what is the use of having it. It is like you buying a new T.V. and never watching it. All these people volunteered. I think most of that rehortic comes from people who have never spent a day in the military and would not fight if the united states wa attacked. Of course you wouldn't have to. The messiah Obama would talk the radical fanatics into loving us.

RyanD.   July 8th, 2008 4:13 pm ET

"Refine" is a flop? I'll give you some flops:

* McCain strongly opposes a windfall-tax on oil company profits. Three weeks earlier, he was perfectly comfortable with the idea.
* McCain supported the drilling moratorium; now he's against it.
* McCain thought Bush's warrantless-wiretap program circumvented the law; now he believes the opposite.
* McCain defended "privatizing" Social Security. Now he says he's against privatization (though he actually still supports it.)
* McCain wanted to change the Republican Party platform to protect abortion rights in cases of rape and incest. Now he doesn't.
* McCain thought the estate tax was perfectly fair. Now he believes the opposite.
* He opposed indefinite detention of terrorist suspects. When the Supreme Court reached the same conclusion, he called it "one of the worst decisions in the history of this country."
* McCain said he would "not impose a litmus test on any nominee." He used to promise the opposite.

Obama 08'

Sheople for Obama   July 8th, 2008 4:12 pm ET

The people see that he flip-flops- a.k.a. lies to pander for votes.

The sheople can't see it...they just follow their shepard.

Jan From Boca Raton, Fl   July 8th, 2008 4:12 pm ET

Everyday Obama Flip Flops on something different. He is a slick Willy.

He hates Whites and what they stand for and he will continue to do so

if he is elected.

SHAME ON AMERICA.

ChicagoJosh   July 8th, 2008 4:12 pm ET

I'm sick and tired of all these people saying "Obama can't be trusted! Watch out for what you ask! Wake up and see whats coming!"

This fear mongering is the reason that we're at the place we are now. You play into little W's hand. Your pathetic. If you don't like Obama, thats ok. But tell us why. Tell us what he does wrong. Tell us what you would do better. Lets have an honest discussion about what direction this country should go in. Don't try to scare me with ghosts. I'm better than that. I hope my country is too.

LT for Obama   July 8th, 2008 4:12 pm ET

Those of you who are saying that he is lying really should go back to the full transcript of what was really said. I actually listened to the whole press conference and guess what, he reiterated more than once that he is still committed to 16 months. That is not lying. How can it be lying if it is exactly what he has been saying all along.

I pray for those of you who are bitter and not well informed.

Gary of El Centro, Ca   July 8th, 2008 4:10 pm ET

For McCain to go after Obama as a flip flopper is laughable. McCain has already flipped more flops than John Kerry ever dreamed of, and he's just getting warmed up.

Lisa   July 8th, 2008 4:09 pm ET

It's not the republicans, it's Hillary's supporters attacking Obama.

The Patriot   July 8th, 2008 4:09 pm ET

If he was going to listen to the Generals on the ground, where did the 16 month deadline come from?

No more lies !! No more lies !!

McCain '08

LIZ   July 8th, 2008 4:09 pm ET

Rev. Wright was right about one thing-Obama is a POLITICIAN. If he isn't with the one he loves(agrees with), he loves(agrees with) the one he's with–Flip, Flop, flip

dems be dopes   July 8th, 2008 4:09 pm ET

First, I wonder if he knows what a brigade is?

He had made a military decision, with no military experience, before being briefed by those in zone, or going there.

Sounds like a two year old..........my mind is made up and I'm not going to change it.

"Change you can believe in, just listen to my positions!

Clyde   July 8th, 2008 4:09 pm ET

Come on...this is basic politics 101. Push to the left and appease your base (Out of Iraq, Guns are evil, Health care for everyone, Wire taps are illegal), Then when you win the primary, push to the center to get the moderates and hope your base stays with you. There is no "Change you can believe in". The only thing that will change is the whole country... will be like one big San Franciso with left-wingers running all of DC. God help us!

Enomisa   July 8th, 2008 4:08 pm ET

He flip-flops- or lies....

He plays dirty.... using race as a shield and a sord.

He cheats... by strong-arming his way to wins.

Obama has more corporate backing than any other candidate.

When this demagogue destroys the democratic party, I will have a clear conscience.

I did all I could- I voted for a democrat and the VERY best candidate out there- Hillary Clinton.

Obama used race as a shield to deflect criticism and as a sword to gut and carve and eviscerate all the more qualified, more experienced and BETTER democratic candidates.

Hillary was the last to fall and she ONLY did so under the never ending barrage of undeserved criticism, sexually laced debasement, insults, hate, bias, race-baiting and lies from the great Obama, his campaign, pro-Obama pundits and the media.

The DNC capitulated and installed the media and celebrity selected puppet nominee.

WATCH WHAT HAPPENS TO THE DEMOCRATIC PARTY NOW.

NC Man   July 8th, 2008 4:08 pm ET

OK which Hillary are we suppose to vote for? One man with many faces!!

Cynthia - Arkansas   July 8th, 2008 4:08 pm ET

Doesn't this talk of Obama being a flip-floper sound familiar? McBush has changed his position on important things also, but the media don't seem to pick up on that. I don't have a problem with anything Obama has said. The media is just trying to get something for their talking head to argue over.

vahe   July 8th, 2008 4:08 pm ET

real fliper is mccain get it right!

jen   July 8th, 2008 4:08 pm ET

No McCain and the media "started a firestorm last week". Obama never said anything regarding the war that was not consistant with his previous stance. It would be nice if the media would investigate before THEY TRY TO MAKE UP THE NEWS.

TSAH   July 8th, 2008 4:08 pm ET

All of you HATERS who were not part of the Obama Movement from the beginning should "shut up" because Obama was "very clear" on the Iraq position since DAY 1. If you watched Rachel Maddow on MSNBC the other night she put it ALL in perspective. As a matter of fact, Obama initially said by the year 2013 he will have troops out of IRAQ – he will begin withdawing right away and always listen to the ground force!!!

SO THERE!!!

Xavier, Saint Louis, MO   July 8th, 2008 4:08 pm ET

Wow, the Republicans are really dispersed. They are on Obama like white on rice! Anything he does or says, they are trying to trap him, because they know their days are numbered. Enjoy it while you can, because come November, your 8 year pathetic party is over!

Three words for you Republicans, PUMA lovers and Obama haters . . . YES WE CAN!

The Patriot   July 8th, 2008 4:07 pm ET

Every great civilization has its dark times. Elect Obama and be relegated to be a third world country. Give handouts to the unemployed, reduce their incentive to work, tax the rich so that they open their business in a different country. Yeah, and don't do free trade, and tell the world America is a wimp, and can't compete. Whoa !!

If you like that, Vote Obama.

If you want to see an economically strong America which has strength to force the right thing, Vote McCain.

Experience, Courage and Substance over Hype, Flip Flop and Rhetoric.

McCain '08

no mccain   July 8th, 2008 4:07 pm ET

no matter what the republicans say or do this year,they still going to loose.

Tim Hutchins   July 8th, 2008 4:07 pm ET

Obama is an old-style lying politician. He said one set of things in the primaries and is now saying the opposites. He really believes Americans will fall for anything. Is he correct? Not me, Obama, never.

Casual observer   July 8th, 2008 4:07 pm ET

It's not just this issue, there are many instances with the majority of his platform that has changed from the nomination campaign trail to now running for the general election (NAFTA, federal campaign money, Iraq), not to mention NOT having an energy policy). He clearly doesn't want to be tied down to any one position, or talk about the issues, he's banking on "I'm not Republican or GW Bush" to ride him into the presidency. This will be all washed out one way or another in the debates when he will have to take a position or lose badly to McCain. So we'll see....

Phantom of the Oprah   July 8th, 2008 4:06 pm ET

Obama is running to the middle- where Hillary always was.

That is why I voted for HRC- because she was the most accomplished and knowledgable and qualified to lead.

That is why I will vote AGAINST Obama- because he pummeled her on NAFTA, IRAQ, FOREIGN AFFAIRS, AND THE ECONOMY.

Only to NOW steal her platform.

What a hypocrit.

Come what may in NOV- MY conscience is clear- I voted for the VERY best- no bias, no racial games, no gender games, no hate, no insults.

JUST COMMON SENSE to choose the VERY best, most qualified, experienced candidate with the most reasonable platform.

Now it is NEVER Obama after his dirty trickery.

Texas Trail Dog   July 8th, 2008 4:06 pm ET

He can reject all he wants. But this is what he's so good at. I can't think of any other program he might fit into. He says one thing one day then the next he says Oh yeah! I heard Rev Wright say those things but I didn't necessarily believe them. This is what he's doing on the economy, security of our nation, the military that he needs to leave the hell alone as do the same of you know nothings that keep yelling bring the troops home. WE CAN'T BRING THE TROOPS HOME. WE NEED THEM IN THE MIDDLE EAST DUMMIES. WAKE UP AND SMELL THE ROSES. ALL YOU PEOPLE THAT DON'T EVEN HAVE AN INTEREST IN THE TROOPS WELFARE. LEAVE IT ALONE.

Jenna Jameson   July 8th, 2008 4:06 pm ET

Little man McCain tries to MAN UP by talking about Obama SURRENDERING simply because he thinks it plays well in some parts of the country.

I'm willing to bet if you turn the cameras off, kick the press out, turn off the microphones etc ....

Obama would mop the floor with McCain in every manly competition

Physical
Intellectual
Debate
Building a Winning Team
Execution
Spiritual

in short, he would whip McCain's monkey you-know-what.

Now, because he is a Christian and was raised right and is a cultured and genteel gentleman, he refrains.

But make no mistake about it. If McCain starts some static .... Obama will finish it.

phony baloney Obama   July 8th, 2008 4:06 pm ET

Let's see… Obama throttled and knocked HRC out of the race by criticizing her positions and platforms.

Now he runs on over to HER exact positions on: Iraq, foreign affairs, NAFTA, and the economy.

What a lying, cheating, hypocrit. Which platform is he for? His previous one or HRC's ?

By the way…. Obama is way off on FISA and expanding faith based initiatives and on his NOT universal "universal health care plan".

Dump this pandering dirty gameplaying lying politician.

JUST SAY NO 2 BO, Ohio   July 8th, 2008 4:06 pm ET

I DONT UNDERSTAND HOW YOU CAN REJECT WHEN YOU HAVE BEEN HEARD AND SEEN ON RADIO AND TELEVISION CLEARLY FLIP FLOPPING. OBAMA WANTS TO PLAY BOTH SIDES OF THE FENCE SO HE'S NOT HELD ACCOUNTABLE FOR MAKING A DECISION. JUST LOOK HOW MANY TIMES HE VOTED PRESENT IN THE US. SENATE AND THE ILLINOIS STATE LEGISLATURE. ITS ASHAME WHEN YOU'VE BEEN A US.SENATOR FOR THREE YEARS AND HAVE ONLY ACTUALLY WORKED 144 DAYS OF THEM. THIS IS JUST ONE EXAMPLE OF THE MANY MANY MANY MANY MANY REASONS HE'S NOT GETTING MY VOTE. NO OBAMA, NO WAY, NOT EVER. PUMA BABY! MCCAIN 08! HILLARY 2012!

Cracka lova   July 8th, 2008 4:05 pm ET

big disgrace......the Iraqis want a timetable for withdrawal.....and this is the new you choose to enlighten us with........what crap
Obama 08

Sheople yes, people no so much.   July 8th, 2008 4:05 pm ET

Well... he hammered Hillary on NAFTA, IRAQ, FOREIGN AFFAIRS.

Now he runs and leaps to the centrist position HRC championed.

But not on the really important things- like UNIVERSAL health care and the economy.

So yes he flip-flops- or lies.

What do you believe- his previous positions or his current ones?

He runs a propaganda campaign pushing what is polling well, and ditching what is not polling well.

Obama is a master manipulator and he skillfully exploits the understanding that peception and propaganda are accepted as truth and reality in the minds of the sheople.

But he did not fool the Hillary democrats- more than 50% of the party

rightytighty   July 8th, 2008 4:03 pm ET

Of course their Republican’s Joe..., the progressively stupid automatically accept anything their MSNBC candidate says.

And no Mk.., I'm not masquerading as a PUMA. In fact, I'm proud to say that I'm the Tiger that’s been eating Puma’s for 7 years now! So why would I possibly want to masquerade as a lesser species!!??

Michelle   July 8th, 2008 4:02 pm ET

Send the militant and marxist Michelle Obama over there and she will take care of them... Change is coming... not on my watch.

The Patriot   July 8th, 2008 4:02 pm ET

Yeah, now the illegal raffle is Plouffe's fault. Earlier it was Wesley Clarke's fault to question McCain's credentials. Before that it was Wright's fault to talk about Obama's church. Even before that it was Rezko's fault. How conveniently Obama can push people under the bus. Are we so blinded by hype that we can't see THAT?

Oh yeah, Obama doesn't flip flop, he just refines his policy. Yeah, right.

Obama is liar, crook, a typical Chicago politician who within 143 days of entering the Senate went and announced plans of running for President.

Substance over Hype.

McCain '08

John in Columbus Ohio   July 8th, 2008 4:01 pm ET

We live in a society where everything is all or nothing, either wholly good or wholly bad. It's really not a smart way to go. When did flexibility become a vice?

Sheople yes, people no so much.   July 8th, 2008 4:01 pm ET

Obama flip flops.

He runs a propaganda campaign pushing what is polling well, and ditching what is not polling well.

Obama is a master manipulator and he skillfully exploits the understanding that peception and propaganda are accepted as truth and reality in the minds of the sheople.

But he did not fool the Hillary democrats- more than 50% of the party.

Change   July 8th, 2008 4:00 pm ET

Change is coming...yes....but it won't be Obama..... WRITE IN HILLARY FOR PRESIDENT

tony   July 8th, 2008 3:59 pm ET

Then why are you going to Irag Barack to talk with the " Commanders on the Ground "
Get a bad feeling about this guy-
Everything you say has a 2nd meaning –
You ought to have a sign that says " I've been taken out of context "

Keep It Simple Stupid   July 8th, 2008 3:59 pm ET

Obama has always been the candidate COMITTED to ending our troop deployment to Iraq and doing it quickly.

Isn't that pretty clear? The only flopping is in McCain's mind.

Peter   July 8th, 2008 3:58 pm ET

JB.....the whole Democratic congress doing nothing thing holds no water.

The Senate is 49 Democrats, 49 Republicans. The House has a small Democratic majority. EVERY bill that Bush has vetoed has happened since the Democratic congress. With the small majority, there are no hopes to override W.

The failures in this country have been festering since January 2001. Some (failure to move away from oil) started under Reagan. But, at least the Republicans will save all our souls as they flush everyone down the drain.

Brandon Hillary PUMA for Mc Cain-Pa   July 8th, 2008 3:58 pm ET

Change you can xerox.....

Larry Sinclair where are you......

Bitter, to want McCain   July 8th, 2008 3:58 pm ET

GOP got Dems fooled again.

do not complaint when the rich keep tax breaks under McCain

I am just amazed how bitterness never pushed bush out after his first term.

Change is a good thing. if you call it flip flop for being a thinker, so be it!

Bush and McCain stayed the course. Look where we are today.

A true leader don't keep using the same failed tactics.

Awake and embrace change. The world is watching. Will The Dems get it write this time.

1992 Bill Clinton ran on the same change platform.
Patriotisn is thinking beyond self.

We all deserve change!

Don't be dems of pre 1940's, reluctant to embrace change because of our own bias – to put it kindly.

Obama 08, and 12

Gary Chandler in Canada   July 8th, 2008 3:58 pm ET

This, on YouTube is the FUNNIEST!
"""""""""""
John McCain Gets Owned on Meet The Press (YouTube)
--–
McCain arguing against himself, because he couldn't remember he had made the statement. ROTFL

salt of the earth   July 8th, 2008 3:57 pm ET

Obama is clearly running to the middle since winning/stealing the nomination.

Lets call that for what it is: Lying. He either lied during the primary or is lying now. Which do YOU prefer?

Hillary Clinton was always in the middle- where most of America is- and that is why I voted for her.

After hammering and criticizing HRC for her platform, Obama has now adopted HRC's stance on foreign affairs, NAFTA, IRAQ and the economy. I really can not stand those political games.

Hillary is the only one with a True UNIVERSAL Health care plan. Obama's is just more of the same- pay for it or opt out of it- with government involvement. I will vote AGAINST any so-called "universal" health care plan, that is NOT universal, until we can get one that actually IS universal.

Keep It Simple Stupid   July 8th, 2008 3:57 pm ET

Obama = Virtually all troops out of Iraq 3 years after the election

McCain = Virtual all troops in Iraq for 10, 20 or 40 years after the election.
***** SIMPLE *****
On June 1, 2008, McCain REAFFIRMED HIS intent in an interview on the Today show.

He didn't repeat the 100 year presence in Iraq comment that drew so much criticism.

He did however liken Iraq to the Korean War where we still, some 56 YEARS after that conflict have many tens-of-thousands of troops deployed.

These costs were never part of the United States strategic vision.

Marc   July 8th, 2008 3:57 pm ET

Getting a little tired of this joker talking down to us:

"The people who say this apparently haven’t been listening to me.”
"So don’t be confused."
“You remember that movie, Groundhog Day? He kept on waking up and the same thing happened over and over and over again.”

As usual, Obama thinks the voters are idiots and his inflated ego is the only thing that can save us. If we criticize him, well, then, we must not understand his almighty wisdom. Hey buddy, I understand perfectly what you're doing. You're giving us a hug while handing your business card to somebody else at the same time. You re reserving the right to flip-flop.

R.I.F.   July 8th, 2008 3:56 pm ET

I was upset all weekend because the media took what the GOP said and ran it like it was fact. They came out and said that Obama flip flopped on Iraq and then by Sunday once some of the media actually took time out to listen to what he said and listen to what he's been saying all along, they backed off. The media is the reason why the GOP wins. The GOP lies and disorts the truth about the dems and then the media reports it like its fact. Obama didn't say anything that he hasn't said over the past year. We will get out of Iraq as careful as we were careless in going in.

Fear mongering racebaiting hypocrit   July 8th, 2008 3:55 pm ET

He flip-flops- just like his hypocritical cult followers:

Look at all the fear mongering from the Obama people who rail against fear mongering.

Roe vs Wade – guess the newbie young new democratic women get to pick up where we racist old bitter soon-to-die old white women left off.

Conservative Court- Well Sandra turned out to be one of my favorites after all, so no more fears about that. May teach the "new" democrats not to use HATE against fellow democrats and then expect unity. Besides, senile and aged as we all are, we are too old to care about the FUTURE. court.

The draft. Well… democrats are the ones most likely to reinstate the draft- it is, after all, a more democratic approach to serving and defending our Nation.

Marc PDX   July 8th, 2008 3:55 pm ET

Hey! Cut the messiah some slack! He's just refining, for crying out loud!

LOL

NObama N'08

Tom   July 8th, 2008 3:55 pm ET

Alec, what can we do to ensure we elect a president who will do better than George Bush. Elect Obama! Tough truth.....

Gail AL.   July 8th, 2008 3:55 pm ET

Obama is a flip-flopping liar. just watch the news, anybody that has any sense can see him for what he is, a wolf in sheeps clothing.Yes we can if anybody can MCcain can,so it's MCcain for me. When the democrates wonder what happened when they lose in the fall, do you think they'll know . They can't see past Obama, it's a shame us dems. should take the whitehouse, but it's gone now with Obama's lies, and just saying anything to get elected.

deep blue   July 8th, 2008 3:55 pm ET

These postings are hilarious! Like rooting for the Bears or Packers or Cowboys. Your team can do no wrong.

To those who remain politically-challenged, I would submit that neither of the big two parties will do anything in the next four years. Not a thing. Not Mc or OB or Pelosi or anyone else.

The aim of politicians is to say whatever it takes to be elected and do the minimum to be re-elected.

Single-digit approval of congress? 13% approval for Bush? Doesn't this tell you something????????????????????????????

kelly WI   July 8th, 2008 3:54 pm ET

The war on terror is coming along good. Why else is not the left stream media reporting on it.? They were so busy talking us into failing they can't stand it to see its working.
We need growth as a country. Dems are trying to make us go down.
Drill darn it. I don't think drilling 160 miles off the coast will be seen by the elite from their ocean front mansions.
Build Nuclear plants. France is powered 80% by nuclear. They weren't scared off by some stupid movie.
But the dem congress......no no no no. We will just tax everything.
They have never done anything good for the country.
Thank you Bush for protecting the country. History will be the judge.
This is a Capitalist Republic. Socialism doesn't work. Try Cuba if that is what you want.
McCain 08. Not a puppet of Geo. Soros, Reid and Pelosi.
Any one send back their stimulus check.? Better not. You'll need it if Bumma gets in.

Alec   July 8th, 2008 3:54 pm ET

PUMA.............Go Hillary!

Boulder Brian   July 8th, 2008 3:54 pm ET

To Dave in Chicago-

The point I was making is that his intentions are to get all of the soldiers out in 16 months. If the commanders on the ground say no way can we do that safely, without losing too many lives, then it isn't going to happen. Barack knows this. It isn't flip-flopping. It's saying he wants troops out in 16 months, but if it will get too many killed, he is willing to refine his position. I have all the respect in the world for that. I have all the respect in the world for our troops. They are doing something that I am not willing to do.

That being said, if more will be killed by a hasty withdrawl (16 months) than would with a more deliberate and slower withdrawl (say 24 months) then take your time and let's get this right.

"Let's be as careful getting out as we were careless getting in..." -Barack Obama

No Nos Moveran   July 8th, 2008 3:54 pm ET

Hillary EARNED our votes based on her track history, her work, her qualifications, her experience, her platform and her dedication.

Obama has NONE of those things. Obama changes his position based on what is currently polling well.

He is racing to the center- where Hillary already was- and why she was the BEST choice.

Our vote will NOT simply transfer to Obama.

Remember… we WERE already democrats… and the travesty of this primary drove us away.

We are lifelongs… "outreach" isn't needed for us. We were in and now we are leaving.

Silly dems.

Timothy   July 8th, 2008 3:54 pm ET

No flip flopping for Obama the Republicans need to listen to Obama when he is speaking and everyone ele's need to do the same and if the Republicans stop trying to find misstakes in what Obama is saying and do thier research maybe the Republicans can get it right. Obama has always said in the Debates and contiune to say I will get the troops out of Iraq within 16 months and just because Obama said refine donot mean a Flip flopping any senseable person will listen to commanders on the ground to understand how to bring the troops out within 16 months.Republicans Please listen and stop trying to make something out of nothing!!! John Mccain is the real flip flopper taxes, drilling off shore. saying he knows nothing about the economy and then lied and said he did'nt say he knew nothing about the ecomomy. Mccain is all over the place.

Sacto Joe   July 8th, 2008 3:54 pm ET

Hmm. The ones saying he's flip-flopped are all Republicans. Think maybe it's political?

Alec   July 8th, 2008 3:53 pm ET

Change Obama change your mind, change your positions, change your church, change your beliefsl.
Conobama.

Nikki, Florida   July 8th, 2008 3:53 pm ET

Actually, ARB, he said the same exact thing in New Hampshire in September – PAY ATTENTION TO FACTS...

talk about kool-aid...brainwashed puma fools

Alec   July 8th, 2008 3:52 pm ET

What can we do to get Obama out of the running?

Amerika the beautiful   July 8th, 2008 3:51 pm ET

The democratic base is gone…possibly for good.

We all hate the direction of the new democratic party. Even those who will still reluctantly vote for the installed democratic nominee this NOV.

Those that Obama has inspired and brought into the party are filled with vitriol. They disrespect fellow Americans, fellow democrats, and even democratic candidates. They argue, not out of an informed opinion but with name-calling belittling insults to demean ALL others who may disagree.

They force, coerce, threaten and demand who gets to be nominee of the party.

This is 3rd world election rigging by propaganda and manipulation of the media. It is not democracy, justice or freedom.

The democrats are fools to think that UNITY is ever possible after the Obama show and the bash-fest of the past 6 months.

Viva Liberty and the right to vote.

Check your facts   July 8th, 2008 3:51 pm ET

Lisa,
McCain said "100 years", not Obama. Obama has been very consistent with his Iraq comments. I guess "you people" on hear what you want to hear.

Also, explain to me why trade with Iran has increased 10x while Bush has been in office. I thought they were part of the "Axis of Evil"?

Alec   July 8th, 2008 3:51 pm ET

Wow...Obama is a lot worse than I thought he would be.
He's just risky and scary.

kim hussein taylor portland, oregon   July 8th, 2008 3:51 pm ET

this is typical FOX news/right-wing media cr@p!!! i am so sick of republican tactics-they lie, leave out information, attack strengths they dont possess to make them a negative (like honesty and being well-spoken). they are disgusting, and cannot be GONE soon enough!!! buh-bye to all of you neocons, america and the world do not want you filthy, lying pigs anymore!!!!!!

he has NOT flip-flopped, it would be stupid and inaccurate to give an exact plan and/or NOT ADAPT to a constantly changing situation. unless of course, you are a war-mongerer who grew up in a military family, and only know "more wars folks".

Tom   July 8th, 2008 3:50 pm ET

Pumas are either racists or republicans. They were voting for Hillary for the wrong reasons. They would never vote for a black guy under any circumstances or they just wanted to do the Rush Limbo thing to the true Dems. The true Dems are standing up. If their support for Hillary (like myself) was based on policy positions, then there is no way they can ever vote for McCain or Obama.

Jack, MA   July 8th, 2008 3:50 pm ET

From what I remember this was Hillary Clinton's position. Never promise anything until you have spoken to the generals on the ground. Gee Obama back running against Hillary you accused her of not ending the war because of the position she took....and now you have the same position. This guy DISGUSTS me! He will say anything and everything to get the votes. First in the primary it was "I'm going to end this war immediately" and he got all the left crazy wingers. Now he says he will meet with the Generals on the ground first to try to get the voters in the center. This guy is nothing but a punk!

Was a Democrat-Now an Independent   July 8th, 2008 3:50 pm ET

I just have one question for all the Messiah's supporters. If the USA is in the toilet, the Republican Party is given up for dead, and The Chosen One is the nominee, why is Senator Obama only up by the margin of error ( or slightly more ) in the polls? Obama supporters constantly threaten and belittle others with accusation of racism or whatever else they want to throw out on any given day. Please just accept the fact that Senator Obama simply does not have the experience nor is he qualified to be POTUS. One thing of which I am absolutely certain is that the USA will still be the greatest country in the world, regardless of who becomes our nation's 44th president. No one individual can do what Obama's supporters believe he can do, and I fear you guys will be sorely disappointed. Oh, well, told you so!

Eileen from Maine   July 8th, 2008 3:50 pm ET

Better to pretend Obama is flip flopping than to talk about how McCain makes things up on a daily basis. I guess the word refine is a little to much for some people to deal with. What's the sense of having someone responsible in the white house?
Google McCain and lies, it will keep you busy for a long, long time.

RealityKing   July 8th, 2008 3:50 pm ET

Of course we know that all politicians flip-flop.

So.., evidently, Obama is attempting to mislead us or blatantly lying to us..., again!

Truth B Told   July 8th, 2008 3:47 pm ET

@ ARB and other followers! If anybody has seen Gladiator with Russel Crow, remeber the part after the war in Germania? Everyone was at this war celebration and the senators were tryin to get the general to take over after Cesar. The senators wanted someone in who was NOT TAINTED by the normal politics! Well Russell Crow (General, or Spanyard) is OBAMA and the idiot was played by Joaquin Phoenix (The Next Cesar) is McCain!

Were not listening to you fools, ARB and friends! So I guess you know what happened at the end of the movie? That's why we expect OBAMA to be the next president of the USA Hail Cesar!!! You better get used to it guys and gals! LOL

OBAMA for President

Democrats know the truth   July 8th, 2008 3:45 pm ET

They saw how he played the race card and savaged the Clintons.

They saw how quickly he turned on his life-long friend and mentor, Rev. Wright.

They saw him play politics with his own grandmother.

They saw how he flip-flops.

They saw how he stole the nomination from the rightful winner of the primary.

They saw how he controls the media and opinion and silences any criticism- just like dicatator.

They saw him use race as a shield and as a sword to get himself installed as the nominee.

They saw that the emperor has NO clothes.

Cynthia   July 8th, 2008 3:45 pm ET

I heard Senator Obama say back in the primaries that he would be as careful coming out of Iraq and they (the Bush Administration) were careless going into Iraq, so I don't see it as changing his position. Senator McCain has flipped and flopped so much until I'm not sure what he stands for.

You PUMAs need to get a life. Either you vote for Senator Obama or you don't and if by some chance Senator McCain gets into office – we all suffer. Is that what you want?

salt of the earth   July 8th, 2008 3:45 pm ET

The hateful primary of hate, diss, gut, dice and eviscerate the better qualified, most experienced and capable candidate… did not FOOL any TRUE democrat.

RACE as a shield and as a sword, forced their hand… but no one was blind to the ploy.

Even in this election year… we may choose 4 more years… just to say NO to a future of fixed elections.

Rally for freedom, justice, quality and fair campaigns.

Say NO to strong-arming, race-baiting, sexism, unfairness and bias.

TRUE DEMOCRATS WILL NOT BE MOVED BY FORCE AND THREATS TO ACCEPT TYRANNY AND HATE.

Oliver   July 8th, 2008 3:44 pm ET

The GOP has NOTHING on Obama. He will be our next president, so they need to get over it.

Obama 08........................................................................12.

Ben - Portland   July 8th, 2008 3:44 pm ET

I think we've all cast our lots, right? Why don't we all take some time off from posting to the CNN boards to do some research and see what these guys are really saying? Why don't we look at who is advising each candidate and where they're getting their info? Why don't we look at what they're actually saying instead of what the media tells us they meant when they said something.

Obama Supporter from FL   July 8th, 2008 3:44 pm ET

What a bunch of whiny morons.

Seriously, do you people really want a president who would commit to a hard deadline for withdrawal and refuse to listen to the commanders of the armed forces?

Lisa   July 8th, 2008 3:44 pm ET

Change we all can believe in!

Phantom of the Oprah   July 8th, 2008 3:43 pm ET

No amount of threats, insults, bigotry, name-calling, race-baitng and bully tactics from the great Obama, his campaign, the pundits and his cult following will FORCE us to vote for the LEAST QUALIFIED, MOST INEXPERIENCED, NO TRACK RECORD, DO-NOTHING candidate ever to be nominated.

Quite the contrary actually. The picture is EVEN BIGGER than a democratic win this NOV. It is a democratic win over the tyranny that has hijacked the democratic party and all its ideals.

We do not care that Obama made sure he was the ONLY democrat left standing, and thus expected to waltz right in and win by default this year. How could ANY democrat lose? Well…. an illegitimately selected and installed democrat CAN , SHOULD and hopefully WILL lose- even in this shoo in year.

Four more years is better than the death of our democratic system of fair elections and counting the votes. That is the change that Obama brought us. Cheating, stealing, demanding and forcing his own nomination.

Okay   July 8th, 2008 3:43 pm ET

Hillary voters are just as selfish as she is. Don't get into a debate with PUMAs, they're useless. Someone needs to tell them the primaries are OVER. Tantrums sure can last a long time.

Let's move onward and upward to a new election, and a new president, President Obama.

I'm for the soldiers leaving Iraq, which is why the American people are voting for Barack. McCain can spin it and say we're "cutting and running" whatever–the bottom line is we're not fighting GW's war or the Iraqui's war. We're over it.

Happiness is 1-20-2009   July 8th, 2008 3:43 pm ET

If you read either one of Obama's books, you would know who he is.
I bet if you went to your local library you could check it out. That is IF you have a library card. Just remove the dust and you're good to go.

hatred will kill the democratic party   July 8th, 2008 3:43 pm ET

Substance just won't fall for Hype.

Just the Obama cult does that.

You can't force our vote.

The new, hateful fans that Obama inspired to join the democratic party have irreparably divided and damaged the party with their bigotry and vitriol.

Suffer on, my fair democrats.

Greg Pottstown, Pa.   July 8th, 2008 3:42 pm ET

David in Chicago July 8th, 2008 3:16 pm ET

LynnB – Sleazy, slick, wolf in sheeps clothing. Are you serious with this name calling crap? Give us a break.

I agree but i don't see you saying the same to the people calling McCain, Mcsame or any other Mc-name that you all think are so smart. It is good that you notice things like the disrespect that we have for US. leaders. but can you turn that hi powered perception on yourself or your party.

Jim   July 8th, 2008 3:42 pm ET

Talk about the pot calling the kettle black. McCain is the biggest FlipFlopper on earth, and he's got "Straight Talk Express" painted on his bus/plane. What a joke.

Songbird McCain   July 8th, 2008 3:42 pm ET

McCain too has flip-flopped. He took an oath to protect the United States and when he was captured he told the North Vietnamese everything they wanted to know.
McCain, release your military records. It's ancient history now, what are you hiding?

syl   July 8th, 2008 3:41 pm ET

Iraq is not the only thing that Obama has done the flip flop. What he should explain however is why he proposed so many millions of dollars on earmarks? Is this the new politics or the old Washington way? And would he follow the John McCain lead of not proposing any earmarks in the future?

Enomisa   July 8th, 2008 3:41 pm ET

The dying cult of the limping Obama.

Oprah, Caroline, Maria, Kerrys, Ted, Dean and Pelosi… stay out of the process…. let the people vote and just COUNT all the votes.

NO more fixed elections.

NO more celebrity bandwagons.

No more media blitz.

No more nasty name-calling, manipulative race-baiting, manipulation of the media, filthy attacks and disrespect for fellow democratic candidates and their supporters.

Enomisa   July 8th, 2008 3:40 pm ET

No one trusts Obama… with good cause… just ask Bill and Hill and all the HRC supporters who were disrespected, trashed, bashed and debased by the slick Obama internet marketed campaign of hope, unity and change.

The hype of hope.

The illusion of change.

The division of unity.

Braden   July 8th, 2008 3:40 pm ET

I guess I wasn't aware that the definition of 'refine' had suddenly become 'to change.' Republicans are desperate and trying to attack Obama on anything, even if it means changing the definition of words.

Lisa   July 8th, 2008 3:40 pm ET

By Obama changing from 16 months to now it may take 100 years, that's not flip flopping, that's lying.

George   July 8th, 2008 3:40 pm ET

This only shows how dumb and clueless GOP voters are.

It is John McCain who won't even vote for the bill he co-authored.

He ate his words about Evangelicals, Calling Fallwell a fanatic then going back to kiss his behind.

He sponsored an Immigration bill and then he was against it.

He was for campaign finance after he lost to Bush, now he doesn't care.

He was against Bush's tax cut, calling it irresponsible in a time of war. Now he wants his own tax cut.

He was against oil drilling, now more drilling is his only solution to the gas crisis.

TEFLON McCain has no poisition of his own anymore. He continues to FLIP and FLOP. Yet these GOP dimwits are calling Obama a flip-flop.

McCain will be a DO-NOTHING PRESIDENT if elected, like his buddy Dubya.

Wisconsin   July 8th, 2008 3:40 pm ET

...

Hey PUMA's, Lisa and ABA, Show me exactly where Obama flip-flopped on Iraq.

Note you may want to look up what it means to refine something.

If you cant show me exactly when Obama changed his stance then maybe you should learn something before posting.

For everyone else this is what you have to be like to be a republican. Look at it yourself and decide if you are republican enough or if you are better then them.

kelly WI   July 8th, 2008 3:40 pm ET

No Pelosi. Obstructionist. Won't let an energy bill come to the floor.
No Reid. Idiot. Where does he think the energy comes from to light up Vegas. Sure isn't windmills and solar panels.
Dems want to dim the lights on the shining city on the hill.
No Bomma. He wants to tax every thing and every one. Drive more business out. Did you ever ask a poor man for a job.? More taxes, more layoffs. For you that are jealous of the rich remember the rich will be OK. They will just get rid of you.
5% are pulling the cart. 95% are in the cart. How about taking on some self reliance instead of wanting gov. to take care of you.
Congress approval rating down to 9%.
Vote straight Republican. The dems want economic and military failure. They need talking points for elections. They need the poor for votes. Always have and always will.
McCain 08

T GUY   July 8th, 2008 3:39 pm ET

VOTE FOR THE SMART GUY. MCCAIN DOESN'T HAVE THE BRAIN AND SKILL. THE CHOICE IS OBVIOUS. OBAMA...........

No Nos Moveran   July 8th, 2008 3:39 pm ET

God don't like ugly.

Neither do TRUE democrats. We will not vote for Obama and will not say yes to this selected, installed, sexist, racist, biased, hateful pretend nominee by voting for him.

It doesn't matter that he is the only democrat we can vote for. He is unqualified, inexperienced, morally unsuitable and devoid of the character needed for the job.

His pandering and adjusting his stand to what polls well, told us so.

The hatred of his cult worshippers showed us the real "change".

The propagands stops here!

Raymond Duke   July 8th, 2008 3:38 pm ET

The man can deny all he wants too, but anybody with ears knows the man is a flip -flopper.. Besides that I don't care whether he flip- flopped or not. I have heard enough from this man and his friends to know that he doesn't care for america or the white people in america . Really he doen't even care about the blacks that have voted for him by 92%. He is all about himself. I can't speak for other people. I only know that their is five people in this house that will not vote for him. John McCain is a slug but he is the best of the two. I at least know the he loves america.

Clinton supporter 4 Obama   July 8th, 2008 3:38 pm ET

HEY ARB -

YEAH YOU NEED A CANDIDATE YOU CAN TRUST. I TRUST MCCAIN WILL PUT THIS COUNTRY IN FUTHER DEBT THAN WE ALREADY ARE RIGHT NOW.

Molly   July 8th, 2008 3:38 pm ET

obama you are a FRAUD!!!! obama is the MASTER of Spin
Typical Corrupt Chicago style politics – tell the people what they think they want to hear – just like Rev Wright told us!
Boy – the DNC sure picked the WRONG guy! He cannot be trusted – he has zero judgment – and he is Not qualified to lead our country.

mk   July 8th, 2008 3:37 pm ET

Pumas are and have been Republicans all along.

Bitter - New Orleans, LA   July 8th, 2008 3:37 pm ET

Why don't we talk about Obama's views on abortion... late term abortion to be more specific. The facts will make you sick. It was something that he actually voted on rather than just 'present'.

Tanya, GA   July 8th, 2008 3:37 pm ET

Mike,

How do you surrender a war that Bush has already declared a victory?

tim   July 8th, 2008 3:37 pm ET

Just cannot understand how any working man could support this
guy who has never had a real job, never a boss of anything,
never owned or operated a business, never taken a risk of any
kind on a venture and is basically a political shake down artist.

Ken   July 8th, 2008 3:37 pm ET

Of course Obama would object to his flip-flopping! Does anyone expect any different from him?

Obama will say whatever you want to hear (which he does), and it can be different depending on his audience.

Just goes to show you that he is like any other politician, who by the way is a liar, flip-flopper, panderer and everything else that lying politicians.

Patrick Henry, Fort Myers   July 8th, 2008 3:37 pm ET

16 months or 100 months

He still hasn't explained what he considers the parameters of safety and security that will enable us to leave Iraq–nor the parameters he expects to preserve the safety of U.S. officials, contractors, and aid workers who will remain in Iraq.

Despite the accusation he has flip flopped–I declare he still hasn't really defined his position at all beyond some sound bites and a strong "mabye" enough for us to evaluate in any way just what he might do. He commitment is non-commital, his strategy is "we'll see", his advisors are unknown. In short...webescrewed.

Saad from NJ   July 8th, 2008 3:36 pm ET

It's NOT flip-Flopping you sillies.... it's adjusting to the situation based on given circumstances at any given point in time. Circumstances change at different points in time and so does one's stance on an issue or issues.....

However wonderfully I have stated the above, if I may say so myself, the problem is that it's not that black and white. Validity of the above hinges on one's honesty and intentions. Sometimes the so called flip-flopping is for good and at times where one is flip-flopping for the sake of political gains or political escape, it is bad. Just imagine if President Bush had flip-flopped on Iraq and either had not gone into it or gone in with a different approach than non-flip-flopping and sticking to the macho approach of we can do it all ourselves, how much better off we would be today?

RyanD.   July 8th, 2008 3:36 pm ET

I want a leader with intelligence and tact. A real Christian, a real family man, a real LEADER.

Not a senile, flip-flopping, adulturing war-monger.

Obama 08'

europe is Obama Country   July 8th, 2008 3:36 pm ET

the whole europe is crazy about Obama,americans wake up, vote for Obama.As an outsider Obama is the right president for america.

Independent Voter   July 8th, 2008 3:35 pm ET

Can someone please tell me what is wrong with refining your position or perhaps just changing your mind? We change our minds all the time in our everyday lives. Why is changing your mind or maybe tweeking a "point of view" in politics is such a crime? I just don't get it.

karen-phoenix   July 8th, 2008 3:35 pm ET

This is what Obama has been saying from the beginning and need not defend himself!!!! McBush is the biggest flip-flopper of the all!!!!

Bitter - New Orleans, LA   July 8th, 2008 3:35 pm ET

So what is Obama going to do if his commanders (all of them) say they need absolutely 20-24 months to avoid total disaster? Huh? What then?

How can you set a date BEFORE talking with commanders...to get votes, that's how.

McCain has ALWAYS gone by his generals advice even when it went against popular vote. Hence the surge. Which is working all to well, God forbid a news agency dare report it.

and don't you think Iraq should be giving us the timeline rather than us giving it to them? The balls been in their court for a while now.

Stephanie   July 8th, 2008 3:34 pm ET

Abby – Consider this – you advise people to vote for the platform that is good for them personally. Some people vote for what they think is best for the country rather than being completely self centered.

Farrell, Houston, Tx   July 8th, 2008 3:34 pm ET

BUSH AND MCCAIN MIGHT AS WELL FLIP FLOP BECAUSE PRIME MINISTER MALAKI WANTS A TIME TABLE OF WITHDRAWAL AT THE END OF THIS YEAR, NOT NEXT YEAR BUT AT THE END OF THIS YEAR. FURTHER, MALAKI DOESN'T WANT AMERICA DESIGNING ANY PLANS ON STAYING. NOW PUT THAT IN YOUR PIPE AND SMOKE IT.

Never Again CNN   July 8th, 2008 3:34 pm ET

I would much prefer a president willing to make decisions based on actual fact and information, who would be willing to refine those decisions as the facts are updated, than a warmongering old man who flip-flops at the drop of a hat, not because of changes in information but because of political pressure. What is McCain's stance on abortion, what is his stance on the war, or the economy or the tax cuts, or torture or the environment (that's a good one he puts out an add that is supposed to show he is for the evironment when he talks about increasing drilling for oil, gas tax holidays to increase spending on gas and increase our dependance on gas which would increase demand, and probably send the prices up again and hurt the enviornment, while giving more money to Big Oil and refusing, these days, to support a windfall prafits tax) do you really belive that McCain, who probably won't survive much more than 4 more years, really cares about our environment especially when you look at his policies..give me a break. All those recist McCain (and if you're a McCain supporter that's not a racist, you still can't deny that most of you fellow supporters are) do not care about this country, for all their talk of patriotism, their racist attitudes are the most unpatriotic of all when you are willing to sacrifice the wellbeing of your country so that a black man will not get elected. If McCain is elected, not only will I move, but America will deserve all that comes next. Rome did not last forever.

@HusseinIsAmerican2   July 8th, 2008 3:34 pm ET

does the word flip-flopping still exist?

you must be delusional if you think McShame stands for anything; he has been for and against immigration, drilling in ANWR, for war & peace, energy and just about every single issues.

John McBush = 4 MORE YEARS OF FAILED GDubya ECONOMIC POLICIES!!!!!!!!!!!!

FLIP-FLOP?! YOU KIDDIN' ME...........BUSH CAN'T FIX THIS ECONOMY!

Louisville KY   July 8th, 2008 3:33 pm ET

You PUMA people are crazy.

Griff   July 8th, 2008 3:33 pm ET

Obama! The man with no past, and no future... Who is this Person??
Does anyone really Know???? Democrats Dream, of the Whitehouse, with a "Ghost" for a Leader......

ARB   July 8th, 2008 3:33 pm ET

sorry tina i want a candidate that i can trust....sure cant count on obama

NELSON Colorado Springs, Co   July 8th, 2008 3:32 pm ET

See some people do listen, Good come back SEN OBAMA, "Obama replied, “The people who say this apparently haven’t been". GO OBAMA

A SONGBIRD SANG IN VIETNAM   July 8th, 2008 3:32 pm ET

Congratulations Jay

You finally practiced enough that you can spell.

Get a life, get a job. Your opinion is only one in millions of opinions.

T GUY   July 8th, 2008 3:31 pm ET

THE IRAQ LEADER WANTS THE US OUT SO OBAMA HAD IT CORRECT . WHAT CAN THE REPUBS SAY NOW . GUESS THEY LOOK STUPID AGAIN.

Pat Riot   July 8th, 2008 3:31 pm ET

Code Blue, you are dead on! These two candidates would crumble before the awesome power of Ron Paul's principle and integrity. You may not like his ideas but you can not argue with him because he is strictly bound by the constitution as we all should be.

Obama   July 8th, 2008 3:31 pm ET

At least he knows what day it is....... And who we are suppose to be fighting....

Does McMindless????

OBAMA '08

Brian G, Sugar Land, TX   July 8th, 2008 3:31 pm ET

To flip flop is to be a politician.
Like tigers, they can not change their stripes.

But they sure do change their opinions a lot!

Jeremy   July 8th, 2008 3:30 pm ET

All of you silly folks who are saying things like "McCain or Clinton" or "PUMA" are really just voting out of emotion and not out of intellect. If you were going to vote for Hillary to begin with, then you obviously support her stances on healthcare, foreign politics and the economy. Which current candidate agrees with Hillary's stances most on these issues??? If McCain wins and makes good on his bellicose threats to remain in Iraq and to provoke Iran into a war, it will be your fault that we are sending our grandchildren to a foreign land to fight and die, it will be your fault that you cannot afford health care because McCain thought that the free market health system would miraculously begin to work after failing for so many years, it will be your fault that we will be even more indebted to China, it will be your fault that Roe Vs. Wade has been overturned. A vote for McCain is far more damaging than a slap in the face to your ex-rival Obama supporters, it is a vote to continue Bush's downward spiral, it is a vote to hasten the downfall of our country, If you Hillary supporters are really Republicans and want to vote for McCain because you believe the government should tell women what they can and cannot do with their own bodies, that war shouldn't be a last resort but a first consideration, and that the American dream is only for those who are born rich, by all means vote for McCain. But if you are voting for him because you are still sour about your candidate losing the primary, I don't think you have earned your right to vote.

demwit   July 8th, 2008 3:30 pm ET

Nope! No flip-floping from Obama on wire tapping either... He just “refined” his policy to include it..

I'm For Obama All The Way   July 8th, 2008 3:30 pm ET

Obama has my vote. I would rather go with someone who says he's going to refine his plan that someone who says we'll be in Iraq 100 years.

Obama 08

Shelby Y.   July 8th, 2008 3:30 pm ET

Hey Freida, how about you keep your vote and donate to Hillary's debt. Hillary "The Smart Choice." lol,lol,lol, yeah right!!!!!

tina   July 8th, 2008 3:30 pm ET

Hey ARB, if you vote for Obama you can have both...duh!

CHANGE WE CAN COUNT ON!!!!!   July 8th, 2008 3:30 pm ET

MCWAR- Home, he turned to public service…but not before seeing his wife who had been crippled from an accident, who waited for him all those years, writing and sending him packages, and deciding to leave her for a rich blonde bimbo.(CINDY)
His philosophy: nothing we haven't seen before, nothing that will get us out of this mess we're in.

Yes, Obama speaks with beautiful words, but that does not mean they are empty words. His love for this country is what will change it for the better!

Susan from Scotts Valley, CA   July 8th, 2008 3:29 pm ET

David from Chicago!

THANK YOU!!!! Refine is not redefine.

Everyone else...stop the hate talk, please. It is so old and most of it is just trying to get people worked up and for Obama people to THINK it's coming from Clinton people and Clinton people to THINK it's coming from Obama people when it's actually small-minded Republicans laughing about how they are creating Dem on Dem hate. People...you're being worked. If you're truly a Puma and think John McCain is better for this country, then fine. Vote your conscious. If you're an Obama supporter, be a graceful winner.

Lets move on and talk about issues.

NotFallingInLine.org   July 8th, 2008 3:29 pm ET

Let's see if we have this right...

Obama is using words to reject accusations that he's nothing but a shady wordsmith who will say anything to advance his own political self-interests?

To say that Obama is a typical politician is unfair to politicians.

HI PUMAs!

ARB   July 8th, 2008 3:29 pm ET

you dont have to research nikki,florida....its called facts and common sense....you cant trust obama any further than you can throw him.

mk   July 8th, 2008 3:29 pm ET

Looks to me like PUMAs are actually Republicans using the weak disenfranchised excuse as a cover. Smells like a very transparent Republican Propoganda attempt...

The ISSUES are more important to me than falling into a very weak Republican based moronic argument. You've exposed yourself and it looks really bad.....

Nicole in NE   July 8th, 2008 3:28 pm ET

BIG NEWS CNN IS NOT PUTTING UP HERE:

Iraq AGREES to a timeline withdraw! gasp! They agree with Obama, democrats and the rest of the world!

McCain and Bush have said over and over and over again NO to timelines in Iraq.

Obama 08′

Canuck   July 8th, 2008 3:27 pm ET

the point is not that he flip-flops, obama is just another politicial. he claims he is different, that is what makes me distrust him.

Matthew   July 8th, 2008 3:27 pm ET

Pro-gres-sive (noun) – one who adheres to the failed policies of failed nations, yet who still cling to said failed beliefs in spite of example after example illustrating the failure in such beliefs. See also – USSR, Cuba.

Typical Republican, redefines words to suit their failed policies. Here is a real dfinition:

Conservative:
1. disposed to preserve existing conditions, institutions, etc., or to restore traditional ones, and to limit change.

In other words, doing the same thing over and over and expecting different results: like John McCain's policies.

People we need change NOW! Let's look at the REAL definition of Progressive:

1. favoring or advocating progress, change, improvement, or reform, as opposed to wishing to maintain things as they are, esp. in political matters: a progressive mayor.
2. making progress toward better conditions; employing or advocating more enlightened or liberal ideas, new or experimental methods, etc.: a progressive community.
3. characterized by such progress, or by continuous improvement.

Oh yeah, those progressives sure are evil. (sarcasm: 1. harsh or bitter derision or irony. 2. a sharply ironical taunt; sneering or cutting remark – for all of you word definition challenged Republicans).

Lisa   July 8th, 2008 3:27 pm ET

Obama flip flopped his way down to two points on the gallup poll.

Sam   July 8th, 2008 3:27 pm ET

Refining a strategy is different from changing a strategy. We wouldn't expect anybody who supports McCain to understand that...McCain himself less so. The troops are coming home!

Rudy NYC   July 8th, 2008 3:27 pm ET

Only an idiot would stand on a statement made in the past, that seems wrong today.

Nikki, Florida   July 8th, 2008 3:26 pm ET

You mean idiots are getting their opinions from the media without doing their own research??

Noooooooo!

Vaughn   July 8th, 2008 3:25 pm ET

.............everyone seems like a bunch of zombies! Vote for Obama........ vote for Obama......... vote for Obama. They have brain washed you, and its so sad that you are all willing to follow him to the end. Just may be he will flip flop another dozen times to wake you up.

rightytighty   July 8th, 2008 3:25 pm ET

I wonder who the progressively stupid will blame when Obama let's the Iraqi government decide when to set the time table for withdrawal??

Just like Bush is doing....

Bad Decision   July 8th, 2008 3:25 pm ET

Obama makes bad decisions. This is a result of him talking too much (like a con man) and not checking facts until there thrown in his face. At that point it someone elses fault (according to him).

Ralph   July 8th, 2008 3:25 pm ET

Obama may be off the hook with his Iraq flap now that the Iraqi government want a timetable for troop withdrawal. I do not see how McCain can justify keeping the troops in Iraq if even the Iraqi government wants them to leave. We will see if Bush will keep his promise to leave when Iraq wants them to.

John in Binghamton NY   July 8th, 2008 3:24 pm ET

I think we need a president that will stick to whatever decision he makes no matter what. Even if the situation changes or if there is new evidence.

I know someone like that, GW Bush!! Lets elect that guy!!

Whats that you say? We already did? How did that turn out????

Brandon Hillary PUMA for Mc Cain-Pa   July 8th, 2008 3:23 pm ET

Change you can xerox....."not this time"

No wonder that pansy John Kerry supports him....

Puma......hold the kool aide

PUMA HATER   July 8th, 2008 3:23 pm ET

A careful analysis of Obama's position on the war in Iraq will show he has been VERY consistent in his statements. Extremely nervous McSame operatives, coupled with a bored, in many cases inexperienced and definitely tabloid leaning mainstream media are to blame for this lateset flap. Now, you want flip-flopping, ask McSame about offshore oil drilling;. or the Bush tax cuts; agents of intolerance; ethanol; the confederate flag; torture; and of course Roe v. Wade. The list goes on and on........

Greg Pottstown, Pa.   July 8th, 2008 3:23 pm ET

I don't like Obama but he is wright about one thing. you can't say someone flip flopped because he now has new info that changes the way you see things. this has happened to both candidates this article is a perfect example on Obama"s side and McCainwas called a flipper because ten years ago when gas was about $1.10 per gal he was against offshore drilling but now with gas over $4.00 per gal he is for it.

People's views change with the times. If Obama goes to Iraq and that leads him to change his mind and say it will take 24 not 16 months to do it wright it is not flip flopping it is getting new info and responding to it.

they are smart men but they don't always have the right answer when given less than all the info

adam   July 8th, 2008 3:22 pm ET

it's called pragmatism and its an All American philosophy. To bad people don't take the time to read Obama's writing. They would find that he considers all arguments and creates thoutful views. He is no extreamist which enrages the far left and the far right.

Jay   July 8th, 2008 3:22 pm ET

There Obama goes again..Thats not what I said..or thats not what I meant...

OBAMA IS A FLIP-FLOPPER. He says whatever to sit on the fence, just like all the present votes in Chicago.

PUMA

PUMA

PUMA

PUMA

PUMA

My vote, my choice. I vote for the person, not the party.

Never for Obama..NEVER!

Rudy NYC   July 8th, 2008 3:22 pm ET

What about the request by the Iraqis for a timeline for withdrawal? No comments from the candidates or the White House yet? Unbelievable.

PUMA .. Hillary supporter   July 8th, 2008 3:21 pm ET

obama flip flops on everything, McCain 08, Hillary clinton 2012

denise   July 8th, 2008 3:21 pm ET

Way to go Barack Obama! we love you, you will be a great united state of america PRESIDENT.

Good Luck

Lisa   July 8th, 2008 3:21 pm ET

I knew voting for Obama was a waste of a vote, He's only beating Mccain by two points in the Gallup poll and Mccain is an idiot.

Rudy NYC   July 8th, 2008 3:20 pm ET

Obama has been attacked for not describing a plan to get troops out. When he starts describing a strategy, he is accused of flip-floppling.

McCain has been attacked for wanting to keep a presence for 100 years. When he starts describing how he will end the war by 2013 he is accused of flip-flopping.

I do not think a long-term US presence in those holy lands will be welcomed in that part of the world at all.

David in Chicago   July 8th, 2008 3:20 pm ET

Jimmy P – Chicago <- tell that to all the elderly on medicaid who were expecting to be taken care of after retirement. It's amazing how many republicans want free healthcare for children and elderly and for those who served in the military. Sure, no problem with them.. but the rest of us can't have healthcare?

Than repubs say "your a marxist or a communist for wanting state sponsored healthcare". ohhhh my friend I hope you don't call the police, fire department and I hope you don't have a child in the "communist" public-socialist schools in this country. Yep, those are ALL state-sponsored services. Sure, pay taxes so kids go to public schools but you don't want to pay taxes for your health??? insanity I tell you!!

Matt, Canoga Park   July 8th, 2008 3:19 pm ET

I guess he didn't flip flop. When you never had a plan to begin with and then announce you have one it might seem like you flip flopped.

He has ran his campaign on fluffy speeches and not being Hillary Clinton. Now that is done he actually has to make a stand and is discovering that his actions and naivete have concequences for other peoples lives.

He can't vote "Present" if he is president when he does not like the issue.

Louie   July 8th, 2008 3:19 pm ET

Sounds like the Repugs are having a field day with this. Obama has not changed his position. He has always said he would be as careful getting out as we were careless getting in. No change, no flip-flop.

Andy   July 8th, 2008 3:18 pm ET

Gee another politician who flip flops. Who would have thought? I guess that is what Obama meant by Change. He Changes his position whenever it suits him.

I liked Obama because he was real. Now I see him as another Democrat candidate who got the base now he is changing his position to come to the middle.

What ever happened to principles?

ProundToBeDemocrat   July 8th, 2008 3:18 pm ET

I hear you Obama it going to be a Groundhog Day with Mcshame. Democrats need to unite and stop the Groundhog Day that started with bush and that will continue if Mcbush is elected. Wake up American you have seen what the republicans can do to our country in the last eight years. If you are thinking voting for Mccain think again think bush.

JB -NYC   July 8th, 2008 3:18 pm ET

I hope we get obama.. We must hit bottom to get better. There is only one way idiot liberals are exposed for their failed policies. We have survived worse.. Congress has single digit approval.. The congress is lead by Democrats. Gas has gone up $2 since the dems have taken over. I guess that wasnt proof enough, let's give em the white house.. that'll learn 'em

John in Binghamton NY   July 8th, 2008 3:18 pm ET

Yeah, that is what the GOP does best. Call people names and distract the ignorant from the real issues. Doesn't matter if its true or not, just call them a flip flopper, communist, or liberal. That is the GOP plan for our country. Its worked so far right? I mean thank god we didn't elect Gore the "ozone man" and Kerry the "flip flopper". Yeah that was a good idea.

I would say a monkey in a suit could do a better job than Bush, but I think Bush basically is a monkey in a suit.

Hasn't McCain flip flopped on basically everything?? What the heck is the GOP trying to pull here?

Too bad that the same red necks that voted for Bush will fall for this too.

Sam   July 8th, 2008 3:18 pm ET

I am truly dissapointed in CNN today. The BIG news for today is that Iraq has asked for a time-table for withdrawal, which is what President Obama has been advocating all along. Even Fox has this on their headlines today. What's happening to you guys, why the flimsy stories when you know the real scoop? Is someone controlling CNN?

Dee New Jersey   July 8th, 2008 3:18 pm ET

I am really getting tired of these Conservative Republicans especially one on another cable station reporting only what they want.

If you have listened to all of Obama's stand on Iraq you would realize that he is not Flip-Flopping. He has said from the beginning that he would start withdrawing at least 2 Brigades per month. If, there should be a problem which would put ANY of our soldiers in danger he would discuss this with the Commanders.

I think it is time that we stop all this stuff. McCain has flip-flopped to.

Lets get on with the important things that are effecting our country such as GAS, FOOD, HOUSING!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Thank you

LYNETTE IN CA   July 8th, 2008 3:18 pm ET

The term "flip-flop" really needs to get kicked to the curb! That's so 2004 and it's done already! However, the repubs have had their heads in the dirt for so long, it's no wonder McSame and his followers live in the past. It's okay, McBush will never make it to the White House. I'm just waiting for that first debate. Currently, McBush's surrogates have been doing most of the talking, sending out the press responses and/or we just get sound bites over the news.

Can't wait for that first debate! I may have to take the day off and have some champagne and chocolate covered strawberries.

Obama '08!

ANGIE   July 8th, 2008 3:18 pm ET

it has come to my attention that both canidates say they understand the american people and some that are struggling in these hard times i for one belive obama does share our values and understand what some people are going through being he grew up not rich w a single mother on food stamps now john mccain on the other hand is just pandering with a millonaire wife 5 houses and 700.000 dollars credit card limits how does he releate to anyone going through hard times! he has no idea!!!!!!!!!

Annette   July 8th, 2008 3:17 pm ET

That's right reject it! I want a president who's strong, flexible and listens. This is a change. More people are engage in the smallest detail of this election then ever before, then I can remember. Stand up and Deliver Obama, the people are behind you. Some will agree and some not agree. The premise of his position has not change, and I have been following his career for a long time. For those who don't know him, open your eyes and mind, because it's time for change.

Erick from Chicago   July 8th, 2008 3:17 pm ET

This isn't about making an informed decision. This is about someone saying whatever is most popular for one forum and changing their answer when that stance is no longer popular. Obama is a pop star who will change his position for ratings (in this case, votes). Except he calls it 'refining'. This is completely comparable to Hillary's misspeak-ing and "Read my lips". Open your eyes, Obama is as imperfect as any other candidate. Only he claimed that he was perfect and above other candidates. Then, Obama campaigned on these points as if they were political platforms.

kofi   July 8th, 2008 3:17 pm ET

I don't see what all this flip-flop noise about Obama is about (exception goes for his FISA stance - which WAS definitely a change in position). His disagreement about the death penalty, the use of churches for service and his Iraq stance are not not flip flops. He has been painted as very liberal so his support of the death penalty caught people of guard because its not a typical liberal view. He's been stuck on church for a while so nothing new about his church-based initiative. He is pro gun control but not anti second amendment so the supreme court ruling (which was about blanket city/urban-area bans) does not contradict. Anything Obama says, does, doesn't say and do is subject to ridiculous media coverage. The media is definitely pro McCain so this is just another episode of creating controversies/news when there's nothing to see. McCain talks about cutting the government deficit by "winning" the war and nobody calls him out on how that makes sense when there isn't even a metric for "win" . Yet Obama uses the word "refine" his Iraq withdrawal plan and its news for a week ? Gimme a break.

Emily, DE   July 8th, 2008 3:17 pm ET

Oh no! A candidate actually says he's going to make an informed decision! He must be a flip-flopper!!!!

Cool it people.

"16 months" is obviously Obama's ideal. Once he visits Iraq he will adjust that timeline based on THE FACTS ON THE GROUND.

Jeebus Cristos.

Well Informed Voter   July 8th, 2008 3:17 pm ET

Obama has not fliped flopped his postion on iraq. The republicans have played the same stupid game with John Kerry . All I hear from John McCain is attacking Obama every day. He needs to concentrate on his message and stop worrying about what obama is doing. Let the american people decide for themselves.

Unempressed   July 8th, 2008 3:17 pm ET

Posters are already doing what he just said people have been doing, "trying" to read into what he says for something, twisting his words and listening to the GOP.

As a student at a university that lost over a dozen students, I can tell you NOW that the media does not report facts. They twist everything so that it's "sensational" or "shocking" to get their story!

"Refine" "adjust" and "reposition" does not mean "flip flop". His position has changed some on some positions on most of the issues he's holding firm. People are putting words into his mout an it's ridiculous!

Democrat '08

SlickWilly   July 8th, 2008 3:17 pm ET

Flip-Flop or Policy Refinement?

It's all in the way you define the word "CHANGE"..

Flagpin Man   July 8th, 2008 3:17 pm ET

My candidate Flip Flopping?
I respected McCain when he was against Bush. Those were the good old days of the 'Maverick'. That was one version McCain. Then he decides to run for president and takes 95% of Bush's policies as his own. Now I look at the man who sleeps with Bush and recommends military action for everything and wonder what has happened to John McCain? Politics are ugly!

David in Chicago   July 8th, 2008 3:16 pm ET

LynnB – Sleazy, slick, wolf in sheeps clothing. Are you serious with this name calling crap? Give us a break.

Boulder Brian – so what if they aren't out in 16 weeks? Where does that statement end Brian, you tell us.. when is a good time to pull out? 2 years? 3? 50 years? Why don't you let us know? 16 months is an eternity if you were actually in Iraq on the ground like our soldiers are doing. What if that "so what" soldier was your brother, dad, son? So what.. is what I say to your ideas buddy.

Peter   July 8th, 2008 3:16 pm ET

And thank God John McCain has stuck to all of his positions...

well, except for abortion....and torture....and drilling off the coast...and gay marriage....and..

Never mind.

Farrell, Houston, Tx   July 8th, 2008 3:15 pm ET

The Bush administration including John McCain knew that Iraq's Prime Minister Malaki was imposing a withdrawal timetable so they have attempted to accuse Obama of flip flopping. Malaki wants withdrawal at the end of this year. McCain has no war argument left because if the surge is working as they say, then there is no reason not to have a withdrawal. Iraqis don't want the U.S.A. to further determine what's best for them but it is in our best interest to withdraw our troops, now. What's the point in staying and dying when you are not wanted.

rumpusgoopus   July 8th, 2008 3:15 pm ET

Great, this once again shows that the more you repeat something, the more people think it's true, especially with the media. Give it up, CNN, Obama didn't flip-flop.

demwit   July 8th, 2008 3:14 pm ET

1) Out in 2009!

2) 1-2 bragades per month for 16 months.

3) I'm going to Iraq and I'm going to listen to my military advisors.

CHANGE WE CAN COUNT ON!!

Robert   July 8th, 2008 3:14 pm ET

FFS! Like he is gonna come right out and admit it. " Barack Obama do not flip-flop, change direction like a weather vane in a hurricane, have more opinions on one subject then facets on a diamond, ect, ect. What I am doing is called refining my position on any said subject." As long as McCain keeps his mouth shut how can he lose, Obama is digging the hole, and even pulling the dirt over himself. If the rest of America would turn off the idiot box, and take a good look at Mr. Rockstar president in waiting we would be ok. But that would be expecting too much.

Jimmy P - Chicago   July 8th, 2008 3:14 pm ET

Get a job and you will have healthcare you deadbeat loser!

Well, I'm a "progressive," you see... that means I support failure.   July 8th, 2008 3:13 pm ET

Pro-gres-sive (noun) – one who adheres to the failed policies of failed nations, yet who still cling to said failed beliefs in spite of example after example illustrating the failure in such beliefs. See also – USSR, Cuba.

ARB   July 8th, 2008 3:13 pm ET

I would rather have no healthcare than lose my right to bear arms and defend myself.

BlahBlahBlahOblama   July 8th, 2008 3:13 pm ET

First he rejected it...then he blaimed it on failed republican policy...then he heard voices in his head from John McCain...then he said it's time for change...then he rejected it Blah, Blah, Blah.

The mans like a pancake at the local Waffle house.

McCain/08

Mike   July 8th, 2008 3:13 pm ET

I am so glad he still stands by his original statement. People seem to forget that we are in Iraq and focus instead on the economy. The government spending billions of dollars during an economic downturn is not the best idea. The sooner we are out of Iraq, the better!

Jimmy P - Chicago   July 8th, 2008 3:12 pm ET

What would one expect from this smooth talking liar? Oh, I forgot, it's never a flip-flop if it comes from Obama... must be a clarification error, or maybe misunderstood. For gods sake already, what do any of you moderate dems see in this disaster?

David in Chicago   July 8th, 2008 3:12 pm ET

"The Illinois senator started a firestorm last week when he said a visit to Iraq would allow him to “refine” his policies. Critics said he was backing off the 16-month deadline."

Moronic critics. This is how McCain's new buddy is going to attack. He's going to play with Obama's words!!

"REFINE" is different than "REDEFINE". To refine is to make improvements to or to perfect the policy Re-define would be to completely overhaul the policy.

Taken from the dictionary:
Verb 1. refine – to become pure or perfected

Verb 1. redefine – give a new or different definition to

Mrs.L   July 8th, 2008 3:12 pm ET

Who lies better than the GOP and now lame duck president, BUSH
GET OVER YOURSELF ARB or who ever you are.

NOT THIS TIME, NOT THIS TIME, ITS OUR TIME THIS TIME, ITS TIME FOR CHANGE

dew5050   July 8th, 2008 3:12 pm ET

Obama, you never flip flopped. Don't let that distract you! For your information, more spurious charges are coming, so, be prepared!

Mike, Syracuse NY   July 8th, 2008 3:10 pm ET

So Obama, either you are going pull all the troops out in 16 months, or you are going to talk to the commanders on the ground and 'refine' your position. Which is it? You say you're not going to surrender, but if you unilaterally withdraw from a war that is still going on, what is that? Answer: surrender! I guess it's all JUST WORDS to you. Your flip-flopping makes Kerry's positions look set in concrete.

Code Blue   July 8th, 2008 3:09 pm ET

The only candidate that hasn't flip-flpped is Ron Paul

unions are not stupid   July 8th, 2008 3:09 pm ET

Oh course he has not flip flopped the media and the GOP are just pushing that agenda! The real person flip flopping is Mc Cain you listen to his debates from 2000 to today and he is a completely different person. He can not even get members of his own party to support his nutty ideas.The best part is that there is dozens of books and video and audio out there to support and back up what Obama is saying he has always had these positions he never was the most liberal Sen that title belongs totally to Sen Barbra Boxer (D-CA). More GOP and Media back lies and propaganda.

What about the report coming out today that Mc Cain is screening the media and the questions they ask him on his conference calls. Some reporters have been threatened by the campaign. Were is that news CNN? Were is the balance in your reporting? your getting as bad as FAUX news

P, CA   July 8th, 2008 3:09 pm ET

PUMAs: Way to build a platform that preaches hate. You remind me of the Westboro Baptists. Speaking loudly and carrying a small twig.

You think this is a game? My kids know better than you: if you're beaten, you don't hold a grudge. If you don't like the person who won, okay. But don't sit around spewing hatred.

#1 statement coming out during the primaries: "I'm for Hillary because I can't stand how rude/hateful the Obama supporters are."

So... now that you're doing the same... methinks thou art a hypocrite.

If thoughts were pennies, you'd be in serious need of a stimulus check.

Voting Obama   July 8th, 2008 3:09 pm ET

People are only saying this because they don't want to see him win. There was no conspiracy. He didn't lie about anything! Obama you have my vote!!

If McSame gets in office only blame yourselves when you can't afford to live with no health care....

Democrats 2008 and beyond!

maggie   July 8th, 2008 3:08 pm ET

A wall along the Mexican border reminds me of the Berlin wall. why can't we work with Mexico and allow an allowable migrant population to work here during the seasons needed. We need to have a much better relationship with Mexico and Canada (will we put up a border there)?

Lucieann   July 8th, 2008 3:06 pm ET

Wonder if the media will be asking McCain if he is willing to set a timetable for withdrawal of troops, now that the Iraqi govt wants it, just like Mccain said he would? I guess the media is only interested in giving McCain gifts of sprinkled donuts and coffee along with the soft-soap!

Robert in Seattle   July 8th, 2008 3:06 pm ET

Refined Sugar is still Sugar. It doesn't suddenly turn to salt. Position reversal for political gain? How about those Tax cuts for the rich? How about the Occupation of Iraq (not a war)

I prefer the wisdom of a Poker Player over a Craps shooter anyday.

BTW did John report his winnings to the IRS?

Boulder Brian   July 8th, 2008 3:05 pm ET

Yes, God forbid a person looks at all of the facts and makes an informed decision. If all the troops aren't out in 16 months, so what? He is going to talk to our generals and find the safest way to get our troops home in the quickest period of time. That is the responsibility of a leader.

Oh, and the phrase "flip-flopping" is WAY overused...

LynnB   July 8th, 2008 3:05 pm ET

Boy he really tries to be slick – typical Chicago sleezy politian tactics. Barack Obama cannot be trusted folks. Somebody better wake up and see what is coming with him. Sure are a bunch of ignorant people out there to sign on for him. He is a big fish way out of the water – he thinks he can promise us anything then do what he wants just because people want a change – he's no change from the same old same old – a sheep in wolves clothing for sure.

Abby   July 8th, 2008 3:03 pm ET

Listen COUGAR, I mean PUMA, before you abandon the party, look at the party platform that most benefits YOU. If you vote out of spite againt what is best for YOU, not only will you know for the rest of your life that you are a bitter old fool of a spiter, but you might make this country a little less wonderful.

OBAMA 08!!!

ARB   July 8th, 2008 3:02 pm ET

Thats what Obama is best at.....flip flopping and lying.

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Updated: Tue, 08 Dec 2009 13:09:21 -0800
hambypCNN: Big game for the Hoyas tonight against Butler @ 7PM. @moelleithee, @mikemadden and @karentravers will be watching, and you should too.
Updated: Tue, 08 Dec 2009 13:04:26 -0800
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