What ever happened to the United States of America as opposed to the civil war between reps and dems? Its about time someone is uniting this country. 2 heads are always better than one ignorant one.

Obama/Hagel would be a great ticket. I'm a liberal but ever since 2003 Hagel has had a buzz around him for a leadership position. His stance against Bush despite the GOP partisanship of the last 10 years.

I could easily see Hagel as a future Secretary of State, but I think Obama might consider an opposite-party VP to be a gimmick.

Still, anything to help this country heal and find its soul again after George W.

As an Independent… (thinking and otherwise).

I might be tempted to vote for NoBama if he had Chuck Hagel as VP.

HAGEL ROCKS. HE'S A NO BS, STAND-UP GUY.

Please take Chuckie Hagel…he didn't run for Congress again because he had NO chance of winning in a Republican district..this guy like Osama is badly over rated.

wow. the whole wide world in love with obama,,, step aside and in line for your tattoo on your forehead,,, the antichrist is awake and in line to run the world,,, wake up.. and smell the sulfer,,,, and i am not into static religion,,, who cares what a canadian, french, chinese,, and all the other nations, who speak of obama as the second coming…. think? denver awaits,, come to the light ,,, and ,

LOL!!! FactCheck you are so right on target. After I read NFIL Knoxville comment, I knew it was Brian from Knoxville, Tn.

Brian you can change your name all you want but we know your rhetoric. It's easy to spot.

I find it disheartening so many Obama supporters give Senator McCain a hard time for his age. Come on, folks, practice what you preach. If you really are leading a movement for change, act like it.

Agism, racism, and the like really don't have much of a place in American politics anymore.

It's smart for Obama to travel to Iraq with two respected veterans. I've often thought Hagel could be an appealing VP for Obama. It coincides with Obama's message of unity and political transcendence.

Reed is another great consideration along with many Democratic & Indepedent candidates [Biden, Kaine, Clinton (or Supreme Court Justice), Bloomberg, Sebelius, Bayh, Clark, etc.]. I trust Obama will make a wise choice for VP and fill his cabinet with members of all political backgrounds.

Si se puede!

Forgot to add #10 to the list if my comments that are still in the limbo of moderation. Why is it that actual facts are not worthy of moderation CNN? I'm not using foul language, etc., etc. What is the problem?

Anyhow, in case this actually gets posted:

#10 to the things McCain or his camp have said or done this week - add the fact that McCain said that the Vietnam War was winnable, we just lost the will to fight. (So what great reason were we fighting for there in the first place? As if to say that war is a game of tactical moves separated from the morality of waging war in the first place………..)

Smart man Obama mix everything up and unite the nation. Dem or Rep i don't care bring peace back to US of A.

Donna,

You are such a hypocrite. You say "Stop the Hating" but then you go on to bash several people. Typical liberal hypocrisy and ignorance. I guess I'm just "hating"…but at least I'm honest about it.

I am a Republican-leaning Independent, but I will probably vote for Obama. He doesn't have the experience and is a bit superficial, but I think he can give the country a JFK-like shot of energy that we need right now. I also think we need a strong black leader that is not a cartoon like Jesse Jackson or Al Sharpton and Obama will help with race relations….and I'm a white dude.

Also I can not stand that lying self-serving Gore, but he seems real popular with the left-wing and some otherwise intelligent people. Wouldn't he be a good Obama VP choice due to his popularity?

My vote goes to obama regardless what occurs, Americans do not deserve to get lied and cheated again by selfish individuals such as george bush and now john mccain

Obama 08

Is Obama nuts considering putting a Republican on the ticket with him?????????????????
He seems bound & determined to shoot himself in the foot & lose this election.

A smart move, turn down a June Bride dream ticket, for a nightnare in November,

WHAT A CROCK

S KIng
Sonora, KY.

excuse me! McCain is the one who can't think off his feet. When he was asked by Dana bash why women's Birth controls aren't covered by Healthcare but insurance co. covered Viagra which McShame is probably a user of. McCain is out of touch and can't even run his own campaign. it seems they have a new head of his campaign every week. Once this trip is over and Senator Obama solidifies his Foreign Policy credentials, then we can make the REAL changes needed to effectively get this country running again.

Sen Obama is very charismatic. However charisma is not everything, in my experiance you should not trust very charismatic people. As for change, well change for the sake of change will lead to disaster. In my line of work you must beable to read people and Obama is sending me all the wrong signals. One trip will not fix his foreign policy problems. He will not need much in the way of security, if any of you can read Arabic check out Islamic terrorist web site to find out why.

I admire Hagel, but he differs from Obama on many domestic issues. Wouldn't that be a problem?

Mr flip flop will explain his iraq position in iraq.

MIKE YOUR 100% THAT SWIFTBOATED THE BEST CANIDATE OUT OF THE RACE. AMERICA GETS WHAT THEY ASK FOR.

The Change-Train just keeps chugging along.

This is the problem that is tearing this country…too much individualism when it comes to key issues that we face together as humans. It isn't all about you, Obama, McCain or anyone. THIS IS ABOUT YOUR COUNTRY. If you are TOO ignorant to see that the economy, the school system, jobs, homes are top issues we face in this trying time…DON'T VOTE. Obama happens to be a top grad at Harvard, and he knows more about what is realistic when it comes to politics than most of you ignorant peasants. McCain is more tolerable than the idiot that thinks humans and fish can coexist in the same environment.

A great leader is never far left or far right…he/she must know how to find balance.

Instead or worrying about a Dem or a Rep in office, why won't we worry about the rest of the world that is raping us in oil prices? That don't have a divorce rate of 55%?

Bottom line is this…everything offends someone, so put aside you…and come together so that we can once again live in a country where we know that our gov't is capable.

Its weird, a dynamic black guy with little experience which is his strength, will choose an older white guy for vice-president for his weaknesses. Genius!

There is evidently going to be a lot of focus on who Barack will name has his partner in this illustrious Dem ticket. I admire Chuck Hagel on his experience in foreign policy and would consider him or Joe Biden as my top two picks in regards to politicians who are essential for Obama to have onboard in hopes of sorting the foreign debacle we currently have in Iraq….

Keep in mind that even tho a "bi-partisan" ticket looks phenomenal on paper, Hagel is still a Republican. Besides foreign policy, a lot of his moral and economic stances favor the right-wing. I know this is a stretch but what if Obama becomes seriously ill and unable to perform his duties? The reigns go to a Republican who could shift the "change" America wants back the other way…

This is the problem that is tearing this country…too much individualism when it comes to key issues that we face together as humans. It isn't all about you, Obama, McCain or anyone. THIS IS ABOUT YOUR COUNTRY. If you are TOO ignorant to see that the economy, the school system, jobs, homes are top issues we face in this trying time…DON'T VOTE. Obama happens to be a top grad at Harvard, and he knows more about what is realistic when it comes to politics than most of you ignorant peasants. McCain is more tolerable than the idiot that thinks humans and fish can coexist in the same environment.

A great leader is never far left or far right…he/she must know how to find balalce.

Instead or worrying about a Dem or a Rep in office, why won't we worry about the rest of the world that is raping us in oil prices? That don't have a divorce rate of 55%?

Bottom line is this…everything offends someone, so put aside you…and come together so that we can once again live in a country where we know that our gov't is capable.

Senator Hagel seems to be a logical choice if what Obama says about moving past partisan politics is indeed true. He is as qualified as any possible Democrat being considered to date He served at the same time as McCain in Vietnam and can still think for himself. Its too bad that McCain is being spoonfed his lines as I have a lot of respect for him and his past efforts to be bi-partisan or a maverick as some put it. It would negate any advantage that McCain could claim as war hero or conservative and turn many so-called red states purple where all of America should be. Question though? Would Hagel have to change party affiliation to accept VP nomination? Anyone know the answer to that?

The funny thing is Hagel has voted for more of Bush's policies than McCain has…

Great way to throw away an election. Does this guy have any idea what it means to stick to your principles and not try to play both sides of every issue? Can anyone say write-in candidate…

I think picking the best person to help change up the status quo is a fantastic idea. Let's try picking two of the best Americans we can.
Sending the message that a VP can be from any party organized or not would be a great start.
Who is the best person you can think of?

Obama doesn't need a republican to get elected. Does anyone really believe that the majority of the electoral votes are going to go for McSame? Prediction: Obama wins 300 electoral votes

If Obama wants a Republican, why doesn't he pick Clinton after all?

I think either of these two would be a better choice than Clinton, but is Hagel really the best we can do?

AWESOME!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Norma July 11th, 2008 6:40 pm ET

Marc PDX

The Iraq War for Dummmies yeah Bush wrote the book!!
The biggest Dope we had as a president.

You go Obama!!

Norma you really are a Joke!!! Don't hate!!!! you are the biggest DOPE!!!

You go McCain

Hispanic people for McCain!!!

Obama is so smart. He knows how to get things done, but most of all he has common sense and a high IQ. He is a people person and can get us energized and working. When he talks, people listen, not yawn and go to sleep. He can tell a joke. He is likeable and is not grumpy.

CNN… c'mon.

Update: "Democratic Presidential Candidate Barack Obama had lunch today with a Republican, further fueling speculation that he might pick a Republican as a running mate."

The only "speculation" occurring here is from CNN. This is too ridiculous to even posit as a serious possibility.

Helloooooooooooooooo, Is it that AN AA is about to become the most powerful man in the World!!!!!!!!!!!!! Think about I'm waiting on Jesus to come back . That will be my King!

I feel sorry for all these MORONS on this Blog, already talking bad about the Latinos (Hispanic ) people. You know WHAT shame on all these MORONS get a life. Just to make a point to all the Morons Puertorican, Mexican, Dominican, Colombian, and the rest of the Latinos in the United States are American the one that are here legally, and the ones that are here illegally give them a break there are here to make a better life for them. I don't see OBAMA having ADS giving the Hispanic credits when they serve this Great County of ours yes OURS. So all you Bozos don't hate because Latinos are going to choose a proven winner and that is John McCain. So stop hating!!!! let's see how well informed you morons react to bias like some other ethnic group. The hispanic people are well informed and we know that OBAMA is fake, a fruad, a Flip Flop and you all act like BUSH. So suck it up and drive on cause Hispanic will decide this election and that will be for John McCain.

Hispanic for McCain!!!!

obam hagal 08

So he is going to fly all over the world and visit foriegn countries to gain foreign policy credentials. And a few days in each country is going to accomplish this?? Who's footing this bill?
Now he decides to beef up his foreign policy knowledge?!?!??
All this man does is surround himself with people that know what they are doing. What do they need him for. I am sure someone else can say the speeches just as fluently.
I thought he had all this foriegn knowledge from when he was in Africa when he was 8.
Unbelieveable. Who's running independent? McCain is looking better and better everytime Barrack flip-flops. When is he going to debate McCain?

I guess hoping for a better America is too much?

I am voting for McCain because it guarantees that I will be skewed.

Voting for Obama is like believing that America could actually get better.

I don'r need better, I need same-old same-old in the comfort zone.

Has anyone else heard about the HUGE gaff McCain made??

He forgot his own story about which football team he told about while he was a POW. He used the Packers in his book yet while he was in Pittsburgh he said it was the Steelers.

Why aren't we talking about this. MSNBC was all over it earlier but I can't find anything here about it.

Someone needs to call him on this one I think. Either he is really getting forgetful or is he just using this as he thinks it will get him the most votes. Maybe next week it will be the Texans when he is in Houston, or the Cowboys when he is in Dallas.

auntie coosa, your boy mccain is sure capable of giving "off the cuff statements"; just check out youtube. i am sure he would give anything to be able to wipe out all of those off the cuff statements and answers, as would his campaign managers what a joke!!

Iraq war for dummies? There shouldn't even be an Iraq war for starters!

I don't know if it's worth expressing my opinion. I'm amazed of how these politicians work. It's Me first, me 2nd, and always Me.

But I'm even more amazed in the way some of us can go crazy for them.

Politicians are public servers who should be responsible for the best interest of every citizen. They are elected by the people and paid by the people. When people have low performance at their job, most of them, get fired. And when others perfomn beyond their duties, should get rewarded. It's a matter of dignity and integrity.

Let's be real and things will really change for the best interest of all.

Thanks.

Can't wait until he goes. It doesn't matter if it's setup to look good or bad in Iraq. Obama is still going to pull the troops out. The truth of the matter, because they are trying to keep him safe, there will be some places he can't go or see, but then again, you also have to remember that things that may go on, may not be going on at the time he's there. I don't know much about Hagel, but if Obama chooses him, that's fine. I'm still an Obama supporter.

Obama 08

If he picks a republican I will not vote for him. I will just not vote! Hillary Clinton should have been the nominee she would have picked a democrat as a VP.

If Obama picks Hagel, it just shows that he means what he's said all along-that he wants to bring the country together. It's time to stop the gridlock, stop the partisan game-playing, and get to work. Some of you may be happy with how things have gone over the past 8 years, but frankly I'm sick of it. If our Senators and Congressmen, not to mention the President and Vice, had job evaluations every year like many of us do, most would have been fired.

It is about time we have a Democrat that actually wants to win this election. Let's see, Bush is the most unpopular President ever, we are a war we can't win and shouldn't even be in and the economy is tanking because of 8 years of incompetency and greed. And all they can muster up is Mc Cain? Pity…

Obama is the right leader at the right time. The power behind him is from the Almighty God, not from the human, there is no better candidate running for the office of US president in this election than Obama. We all need to pray for his safety and also pray for our current president Bush and may God bless America. Good luck .

Obama is not running at all. Obama is on the prowl!

For those of you disenchanted with the current positions taken by Senator Obama, please remember, they may be different tomorrow. Also remember, nothing is final until the convention. He is the "presumptive" nominee. If you really want to make a difference, don't vote for John McCain, write, phone and/or email your Democratic representatives and the DNC and voice your opinion. Let them know who you would like as the nominee. Just a thought!

Janet Rigel. Name once when Obama crossed party lines? The next time will be the first time. Stop belieing his stump speech and do some research. God gave you a brain. Try using it, and stop being a sheep.

I would love to see Hagel on the ticket. But God forbid if something happened, we would be turning over the Presidency to the conservatives again. Even tho Hagel is against the war, he is still a very conservative politician.

I don't know much about Reed.

Senator Obama makes fun of English-speaking Americans who do not speak a second language. What is his foreign language?

Get ready world coz here he comes!! I love you Barack Obama!!

BARACK THE VOTE PEOPLE!!!!!!

MarthaK, at this point Obama is just a politician. He's not President, he's not even officially the Democratic nominee. JFK and Reagan spoke at the Brandenburg Gate when they were President. How big must Obama's ego be? The Brandenburg Gate is like our Lincoln Memorial or Washington Monument. How inapproprite would it be for someone campaigning to be Chancelor of Germany to give a campaign speach at the Washington Monument? Answer, it would be ludicrous. By the way, the current Chancelor doesn't want him. So on his first foreign trip as PRESUPTIVE nominee, he antagonizes a major friend. Nice. Way to establish some foreign policy credentials, which he totally lacks. As far as picking Hagel, he's a Rep. in name only. But he would provide some much needed adult supervision to junior.

I'm sure all of his disciples will really love to hear this.

Well great minds think alike, I guess. I had thought that Obama would consider putting a Republican on the ticket. It makes sense. If all of you anti Obama & Anti McCains put 2 thoughts into your empty heads instead of just hating these guys you'd think of it as well. I really feel as if the nation has become so polarized by these 2 parties that they need to begin to put 1 of each on presidential election tickets. There needs to be a more common ground found between the 2 parties, and that can only happen when folks start getting TOGETHER and not just backing into their separate corners of the ring. I wish that McCain were more of his own man and could actually put a woman on the republican ticket. People need to think OUTSIDE OF THE BOX! On BOTH sides! But they wont because republicans are mostly men and old fashioned women who want men to keep all of the control. They will never put a woman on the ballot because what if McCain keels over- then what?! A woman would be in charge. That can never happen in Republican Man world. And all of these people talking about experience…well it does count for a something, but it doesnt count for everything. Sometimes you need someone who hasnt been doing things the same old way for the last 50 years to take a crack at it. No one can ever be experienced at being the President of the US. The world changes every day, and so the job changes everyday. I just wish that these parties would try to talk and resolve differences, because I am so fed up with all of the partisan bickering.

THAT would be the last nail in the coffin. If it does I hope all Hillary supporters write her name in and she goes after the presidency with a vengeance.

I have a lot of respect for Sen Obama. He is different in his approach to doing things and it's refreshing to see. Rather than listen to all the pundantry, he is going to Iraq to see for himself which will help him make a much more informed on the issues of Iraq and will help him make better decisions on Iraq when he is our next President. As for Chuck Hagel being a prospective VP nominee, nope..I'd rather see Hillary as VP. Chuck Hagel is correct about Iraq, but unfortunately, that is the only thing I like about his politics. Obama is smart to take him along. Get the real Republican perspective on what is going on over there.

And more trash from the loony, Clinton-hating loopy Obama dolts will follow:

Donna:

And we should care if you vote for Nader because…

simply disappointing how dumb Americans really are.

Obama was put up by the old establishment as a puppet. Sold to us with the media's help (all marketing).

And the youth and gullible Americans wanting "change" took it hook, line and sinker. He is the old government idiots. He is no different. The only reason he needs to flip flop so much is because he is being told what to say and when to say but he's resisting and playing them too. He's the same story of Milli Vanilli.

PUMA PAC - don't let this happen. YOU CAN'T WRITE HILLARY'S NAME IN, IT WON'T HELP. You have to vote McCain if you want her to win in 2012.

Obama/Hagel '08….?

Uh…NO.

I'm all for bi-partisanship, but that's ridiculous.

Why does the media love to just report groundless speculation?

Barack Hussein Obama and his artificial idealism is the most dangerous thing that could happen to this Country.

THIS JERK WILL VACATION OVERSEAS AND COME BACK TO "BOAST" OF ALL HIS "FOREIGN" EXPERIENCE! HE IS A JOKE. HE CANNOT BE TRUSTED.

Jesse Jackson has it right and black people who know the experience know what Obama is. Congress needs to get over their very severe case of Bush Derangement Syndrome and move on.

This is the least productive Congress since I don't know when — instead of trying everything under the sun to Get Bush — why don't they try working on the energy crisis, the subprime mortgage fallout and all of the other issues that are affecting Americans?

Vote for John McCain in 2008.

A right wing Republican for BP, now I know I'll not vote for Obama!!!!

No matter what Obama does you opposers will find a way to spin it into a negative.

The fact that Obama is barely leading McCain even though the Iraq war, and Republicans have a 80% disapproval rating shows the racism.

No Republican would be on the Democratic ticket. Once he's on the ticket he's abandoned his party and is worth his weight in air. He's a worthless turncoat, of no use to either party.

At of all these Democrates, the best person Obama could find for his VP is a Republican!! Hagel is not the VP people.

If Obama choses a Republican, Denver can and most probably will put Hillary back in the picture.

Senator Obama, I think it is a great idea to include Mr. Chuck Hagel in Your Administration as one of the top 5 positions BUT NOT as VP this will create a backlash in the Democratic and Many Independents. Don’t think for a moment that Republican will vote for you because you picked Mr. Hagel as your VP. Republican are like Religious Fanatics they talk a good game and pray a lot but they don’t change their strips.
Obama-Hillary 2008 Most Republican are hoping you don’t pick her.

well, I hope he picks someone with some foreign policy experience because he is already backing out of all that pretty talk about getting out of Iraq right away and moving so quietly to the middle. Hummm, wonder where he got that idea? Hillary!!!!! You all bought his line of crap now live with it, a Rep. for VP yep, that's change alright. Just what we need a republican anywhere NEAR the white house. If he hopes to have a chance he'll pick the only person for the job, HIllary. And all you naive obama supporters get ready to find out what your guy is made of, hopefully it is something more substantial than those nice speeches!!

a better idea????? pick cheney!!!!!

Chuck Hagel is one of the few honorable Republicans I can think of. He's smart and would make a great addition to my choice for president. They did it years ago, why not again?

Why not? Personally I want whats best for the country and if a bipartisan ticket offers that then you have to ask yourself what is more important….improving our country or voting on party lines? McCain and Obamas VP picks might help sway my vote otherwise I'll be going with Barr on the Libertarian ticket. I would be interested in listening to what a bipartisan ticket has to offer.

Obama obviously isn't very concerned with his potential democratic constituents. His movement to the center has been awkward and pretty stupid. Caving on NAFTA and FISA is simply unforgiveable. Now he further insults his democratic supporters by alligning himself with Hagel. I still think he'll win but i think i'll lose my bet that it will be a landslide victory. He's lost my vote and I am no snowflake. Others will abandon him as well. BOB BARR, NOW IS YOUR CHANCE TO TRULY ENTER THIS RACE! We need a candidate that will repair our adherence to the Constitution of the United States and also someone who will overhaul our economy.

i think dem/rep ticket is only way to bring mankind, together!!!!!
it is at least an original approach to bringing the country together..
thou, i think huckabee is the man for the ticket…. reed looks sleasey and hagel looks to 'oldtime' suntanned….

Read the comments on this post and then consider the trappings of partisanship. The majority of negative statements come from persons disgruntled from either a Republican or Democratic vantage. "Obama is a liberal so I'm mad;" "Hagel is a Republican so I'm mad" etc. The largest political demographic in this country is Independent (37%), why shouldn't our citizenry and public officials reflect our identity (by having independent minds untied to silly allegiances)! Based upon his background, his clarity and honesty of expression, and his proven judgment, Hagel seems solid. THE INDEPENDENT REVOLUTION IS COMING (whether or not Obama leads it).

If Senator Obama would just pick Senator Clinton as his VP the ticket would have the foreign policy creditals it needs, not to mention my vote. If he picks a Republican or anyone else for that matter I vote for McCain.

Obama is sucking everyblood he can from the democras and all the people who are supporting him . He is doing enything for himself, but like J.J. he is not a real one b.

Puke.

Republicans have proven themselves completely untrustworthy … even more so than the dems.

does jackson really reads the bible or he is a fake pastor he wishes too much evil

Barak need to keep his mouth shot. I cannot believe he made an interview on death penalty for Bin Ladin. Who are these people advising Barak to come out and say such a thing. There are many people working hard for Barak. I dont know if Barack think his supporters appreciate such a comment from him. He has been doing nothing but making mistakes after mistakes.

You are not yet the president Barack. Be careful what you say or keep your mouth shot.

Obama supporter

Barack Hussein Obama wouldn't have EVER, EVER thought of going on such a trip to Iraq and the Mideast …….IF Senator McCain had not told him to go! Yeah…….be sure to keep his plans "SECRET!" What a JOKE this guy is……….conceited to the hilt………and a BIG JOKE!

HA! HA! Barack Hussein Obama will do and consider anything on this earth to get elected……………but he'll never, ever make it!

KiKi you better go drink some cool aid ?Auntie Coosa you are the one deceived you have the wrong name where have you been watching that old man misspeak to long?

I'm happy as long as he picks anybody except Hillary Clinton!

Actually, Hagel is not that bad a choice, but it would totally upset the Democratic Party machine…not that that is a bad idea, since it consists of nothing more than the self-annointed representatives of various special interest groups.

He doesn't have the nerve to do it, though…or does he?

MY MY MY WHATEVER HAPPENED TO THE OBAMA OF THE PRIMARY CAMPAIGN?

NOT WITH MY VOTE.

S KIng Sonora KY.

OBAMA would add anyone he thought would help him win the nomination! He has NO moral conviction about anything! He simply wants to be President! I WONDER WHY?

I dont think Hagel is a VP candidate. He is going with Obama to Iraq because he is a Republican who opposes the war. When they return, Republican Hagel will then back Obama's call for a timetable and withdrawal, giving the sense of bipartisan unity on this.

That will not happen.

Hagel is on the right on most issues. Obama and Hagel were possibly only on the same page on the Iraq issue. Hagel openly opposed the surge and he was at odds with McCain on the Iraq issue. That is why Hagel is going with Obama. With Iraq war going well, I do not think Hagel has much value on the issue either. Even Obama considered to change or moderate his position on Iraq.

On other issues, they are not on the same page, especially abortion. Hagel is a strong pro-life Senate. He opposes abortion. Do you think pro-choice organizations and voters will support Hagel as VP? There is no way. If something happens to Obama and Hagel becomes President, then it is a Republican President. He will appoint different judges. VP is important because he/she can become President at any moment.

If Hagel is the VP candidate, then there will be big problems with Clinton supporters, especially those pro-choice voters and organizations. The Denver convention will be a mess.

Why would Obama pick a Republican for vice president? If I have to vote for a Republican it will be McCain. Actually, what is wrong with Hillary Clinton, Joe Bidden, Evan Bayh, or any other half dozen or so good Democrats that deserve to be asked? When is Obama going to stop show boating and get down to acting Presidential? Everything has to be a big production or performance for him. If he makes it to the White House, hopefully reality will set in and he will actually do something!!!
Hillary in 2012! Go Girl!!!!!!!!!!!!

As a dem now for Senator McCain, I pray he picks Hagel !!!! perfect!

If voters cannot see that the obama campaign is nothing more than smoke and mirrors then they are truly blind. No candidate can ever be everything to all; politics does not work that way. I believe the real obama is the obama that is reflected in his 20 year socialist, maxist, racist history, only a fool would believe otherwise. obama is the candidate of change alright; the only question is what part of his ideology will he change next week for political gain? America better wake up and see obama for the chameleon that he is before they put this blatant opportunist into office.

used2bdemocrat

BARF!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

All of you who "claim" to be Democrats who are voting for McCain because of his experience are misguided, misinformed fools. What "experience" does McCain have? How to run a dysfunctional campaign that needs to be re-organized and resurrected every few weeks. Give me a break! This nation is teetering on the brink - Energy Crisis, Healthcare Crisis, Environmental Crisis, Foreclosure Crisis, Skyrocketing Food Costs, Rising Unemployment, Falling or Stagnant Wages, Deepening Credit Crunch, GM on the Verge of Bankruptcy, an Emerging Banking Crisis. We CAN NOT AFFORD four more years of failed Bush policies, wanton criminality in the highest levels of government, Endless War! Obama may not be the ideal, and seems to become less so by the day, but he is our ONLY CHOICE to salvage what remains of the American way of life.

Mr. Obama is only taking this interest and trip to Iraq because it furthers his political ambitions. Hillary Clinton went to Iraq when it didn't further her political ambitions and she would never exploit this war for her own personal gain. Disgusting.

One drawback to Senator Jack Reed is that his seat would be filled by whomever is elected to be Governor in Rhode Island this coming November.

As it stands right now, the incumbent Republican is in the lead by about 10 points.

Now, if the people of Rhode Island knew that voting for their Republican incumbent would also cost them one of their two Senate seats, it is possible that it could help motivate enough people to win the Governorship for the Democrats. But, it would be a gamble that could cost Dems a key Senate seat for at least a year.

Man O Manachevitz! Hagel is the man! He was the only Republican that had the stones to stand up to fellow republicans and the President. He's been in the 'nam, so he knows what he's talking about. He said the war was bull from the start. McCain looks older and more out of touch every day we get closer to election. Obama continues to put his money where his mouth is. A "liberal" Democrat reaches out to a moderate Republican. Obama puts himon the ticket, and that is pretty much a wrap. Hagel will pull in more moderate and independants than McCain could ever hope for. Hagel previously said he wouldn't accept a VP role, but that was before anybody asked him. If Obama reached out to him, I'm pretty sure he would accept. It shows that Obama is trully committed to fixing what the conservative wing of the Repiublican party has ruined in 8 years. The only way anything will get fixed in this country is with smart people on both sides of the isle pitching in to help.

"This is a very real, responsible addressing of the most divisive issue in this country since Vietnam. Yes, sure, it’s tough. Absolutely. And I think all 100 senators ought to be on the line on this. What do you believe? What are you willing to support? What do you think? Why were you elected? If you wanted a safe job, go sell shoes. This is a tough business. But is it any tougher, us having to take a tough vote, express ourselves and have the courage to step up on what we’re asking our young men and women to do?"

whoever is best 'available' foreign policy and military expert or he is not so smart after all. and someone who dodged 'real' bullets BTW.
any other criteria and he is dumb as nuts.
(the 8 point lead would jump to 16)

get them obama!!!!!!!!!!!!!! we love you!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! mcshame stop flip floping

Hey, there Chrissy. Deal we'll swap you a Nancy for a man.

If Obama doesn't pick Clinton, then I think he should reach outside of politics altogether. How about Bill Gates or someone else from the business world? (Just not a Libertarian dingbat like Romney or a typical CEO type.) Or someone from a foundation, like the Rockefeller foundation? Or the city manager of a large city? Perhaps a distinguished professor of political science? We have been electing career politicians for a hundred years, with the exception of Eisenhower, and it hasn't worked out very well. The Roosevelts, Truman, Kennedy, Johnson, and Carter were the distinguished exceptions. The others (Cleveland, Harding, Coolidge, Hoover, Nixon, Reagan, Bush, Clinton, and Bush) were terrible disappointments.

I think an Obama/Hagel ticket would be a great idea.And if he is eledted he should ask Gen,Powell to be his Sec.of Defence and
Gen.Swartskof for Sec of State,and then we may beable to get this
country back to the people.And we should put Lou Dobbs in charge of imigration to

Auntie Coosa, like McCain's viagra moment?? Lmao!!!!

Good job democrats. You have selected a nominee that has flip-flopped on every issue that he stood so hard for during the primaries. Watch once he gets into office everything he has said during the race will be nothing but talk. For all you people blinded by him you need to look through the talk and realize he is a politicial trying to get into office! I refuse to vo

A qualified Republican running mate would be "Change We Can Live With" and elect.

Both of these men accompanying Obama have a lot of integrity and I am glad he has chosen them for his trip abroad.

Carole/Independent: You are exaggerating to the point of untruth to feel better about your choice. O.K……. Do you have the same discernment capabilities when it comes to McCain? Look at the following that has occurred in his campaign in a ONE (1) week period …… (not mentioning anything else….)

During this past week, THE LAST SEVEN DAYS alone:

1. McCain called the most important entitlement program in the U.S., social security, a "disgrace" because it is funded by the deductions of those still in the work force. (He apparently did not know that this is the way it has ALWAYS worked!)
2. His top economic adviser called the American people whiners
3. McCain released an economic plan that no one thought was serious. He touted the support of 300 economic advisers, many who when asked, said that they signed on something different and did not endorse his economic policies.
4. He flip flopped on Iraq
5. He joked about the deaths of Iranian citizens
6. He denied making comments that he clearly made TWICE.
7. Blasted Obama for not voting on a bill when he himself missed the vote due to campaigning.
8. Promotes kicking Russia out of the G8, effectively bringing cold war tensions back with them.
9. When asked why Viagra was covered by insurance companies and not birth control pills (even though they are used for more than birth control), he could not answer. He said he would have to take a look at his voting record. He could not answer.

MIND YOU, THIS WAS ONLY IN O-N-E (1) WEEK!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

And some of you call Obama an empty suit without going to his website or watching the full speeches and Q and A sessions or going to the Library of Congress to see what he has worked on in the Senate! Put away the fear and put your "thinking caps on".

Have a safe, fruitful trip Senator Obama.

So Rock Obama put his name on a Nascar Race Car. Cool. What will McLame do now? Put his name on a Rascal? It can go in slow circles to the tune of Alley Cat.

Our Nation not Obamanation.
HOPE and CHANGE is a smokescreen for a real bad agenda.

PUMA for Mc Cain

Hopefully the great appeaser will stay in Iraq—–can't you see Obama coming back with a peace treaty from Al Qaeda? What would you think that would be worth? Six months later Al Qaeda would be in our neighborhoods and we'd be driving to work in an armored car. Think it can't happen?

I don't think we should read much into this beyond just a collaboration for a visit to Iraq.
We cannot imagine that a republican will be given a no.2 spot, to become no. 1 if something happens after a hard fought election to replace republicans in White House. I don't think that the Democratic party in the senate would like a republican to become President of the senate.
Please ! Stop jumping to conclusion from a simple trip. Of course, Hagel will be welcome to change parties.

Democrats Take Hagel
Republicans Take Loserman

I agree, another Democrat for Mc Cain

THE CHANGE IS COMING. Ha HA

Newbie hack!?

Hagel would make a great Secy. of Defense. Clark is a great general, but he has foor-in-mouth disease. I'm sure he will give Obama his best advice on the situation, which is, of course, why he's going along. Sen. Reed has a good reputation, but I really like Sebelius.

If he has to go republican, he can't do better than Hagel. Hagel has a history of breaking from the right side to reach across the aisle, and I have to admit that it would sync well with Obama's message of change. It would be backing up the talk, something very hard to find in politics.

The democrats would never agree to this selection as Hagel for V.P. since he disagrees with the deomcratic agenda of a European Style Socialist Agenda and thier anything goes attitude. Like I heard today from the pundints a cabinet post would be more likely.

Obama/Hagel 08!!

Great unity ticket, plus Hagel's military experience and sound judgment, makes him the best possible choice (and his wife donated to Obama's campaign).

My previous statements about Obama where very negative. With the possibility of him running a bi-partisian ticket, it got my attention. Could somebody please clarify something for me? I want to understand the Muslim connection with him. This is my greatest concern. Any help would be appreciated.

A DELEGATION OF AMERICAN LEADERS,

IN CONTRAST TO THE THREE STOOGES,

MCSAME ,PILL POPPER & LIEBERFOOL.

Auntie Coosa, did you get McCain and Obama confused? Sen Obama usually has a decent aswer for all questions posed to him. McCain can't even remember why he voted for Viagra and not birth control in a healthcare bill. You should watch that video btw, it is hillarious!

If Obama picks one of these jokers, he must think he can't win in November.

What in the world have these dumb delegates done, and the far left of this party?

I have zero confidence he knows anything about the war or money.

Smart D's might have to go with McCain

If Obama picks a Republican as his VP, that will be desperation at its best!

As a lifelong Democrat, I will not vote for him unless another Democrat is his VP.

Why reward Republicans? They have had their 8 awful years which has gotten us into an economic mess.

I think Obama should definitely go to Iraq and talk to the people on the ground ..Maybe they will buy into his liberal garbage. Maybe he can get his picture put up on a mosque in his NASCAR! I sure the Iraqis will love him…Hey ! Maybe he will stay and show the Iraqis exactly how is is going to bring peace to the world with his great dialog! I would like to see him put up or shut up about how great he will be for the world…

If Obama picks anyone besides Hillary, we will not vote for him.

Oh, a visit to the "Old Country". Hey, Hussein is back!

BHO is worst than slick bill!!

Truth is, there never was or ever will be an 'Iraq War for Dummies". That is why we are in this mess. Now the Iraqis themselves want us out, but we don't want to leave. Only the US can get away with invading a soveriegn nation and occupying it unconditionally. Now we are even thinking about invading Iran, all because Israel will "draw" us into getting involved!

It's time we become the peacekeepes and stop being the warmongers in this world. Enough of this half a trillion dollar madness.

Get out in 16 months. Vote Obama!

Auntie Coosa, Blairsville, Georgia, USofA
Sen. Barack H Obama has to take someone with him who can think on his feet
McWar………..TOOK Lieberman with him …….good so he could tell him where he was … REMEMBER!!!!

I AM SURE THIS DELEGATION WILL REMIND THE IRAQI

PEOPLE TO START PAYING THEIR OWN BILLS, SO WE

CAN START PAYING OURS.

Chuck hagel's voting record is exactly the opposite of Obama's in every area from guns, to civil rights to workers' rights to the environment. Sharing a ticket would be ridiculous.

Wake up. The time for change is now. I don't know about you but I sick and tired of business as usual. It's more then just words it really is about honestly. We need someone who is fresh and committed to hear the concerns of the common folk out here who are hurting from the mess created over the last eight years. It's just not experience that counts it is a genuine gut feeling that connects to the guy who sweats for a living every day to pay his bills. Obama is a candidate who can work across the partisan divide and unite this country again. Divided we fall, united we stand. To many politicians just try to trip each other up and the crash is our common agony. It time for a new kind of politician.

i am surprised to hear Chuck Hagel a Republican in Democratic VP in a joint ticket with Sen.Barak Obama.Well Sen Barak might be thinking he can win Independent vote. But still he is a Democrat and running for President in Democratic ticket. he might anger lot solid democratic voters specially Hillary supporters ,18 millions of them in solid Democratic states likw PA,OH,In,WV,KY,FL,Mi, Tn,Ak and lot many other states. Is there anybody as strong as Hillary Clinton and of course President Bill Clinton who can really help him win in Nov.4.He still has time and think seriously taking Sen.Hillary as VP and win landslide in Nov.4. As a Democratic voter I will advice him to take Hillary as VP and any concious voter will say him the same advice.This is a must win for Sen.Barak Obama.I do not think he should not take any other chance other than seriously considering Sen.HIllary as VP if he really wants to sure win in Nov.4. thanks.

I don't think it's a good idea. If the Democrats want to say they're the party of change, and are the way to lead us out of the mess the Republicans have got us into, what is the point of putting a Republican who may be more to the right than McCain on the ticket? It makes no sense. You can't say you're the party of change when you have a ticket that looks like more of the same.

This quote floors me-

Im a dem and don't care what Obama is doing. The media treats him like a rock star with no experience. I vote experience so this dem is going with McCain.

If you want to vote for experience, write in Rumsfeld and Cheney-they were touted as having more experience than anyone…and they did! Now, look at their decisions, their arrogance, incompetence, their negligence, not to mention culpability, and you might want to consider a little something I call PLATFORM and VOTING RECORD. That might matter just a bit.

OK-McCain:
Wants to keep troops in Iraq-for possibly "up to 100 years"
Wants to keep tax cuts in place for the wealthiest 1% of Americans
Wants to allow corporations to move jobs and even headquarters overseas, but still take advantage of tax loopholes
Wants to make abortion illegal
Wants to keep abstinence only programs in place-when latest headline is "Teen Pregnancy Up for First Time in 15 Years" as reported by the National Institute of Health (that's a government agency, BTW)

I'm not sure how a Democrat could vote for that platform, but I know my conscience wouldn't let me.

You can't substitute logic and reason with experience. It just doesn't work that way. One hopes logic and reason come with experience, but the last 7 years proves that is not always so.

Guess this boosts Jack Reed's VP stock as well. Can he run as VP and still run for re-election under Rhode Island rules?

Okay, tell me again Bushies: Just how does getting shot down in Vietnam and being held prisoner, tortured, made to denounce your country, and brainwashed qualifiy you to lead?

No not as VP but someplace in the Cabinet.

Obama is nothign but an empty suit who is lost without the teleprompter. He changes positions to suit the 'mood of the day'. God help us if this hollow man is elected pres. Don't hold your breath about Hagel..

He's ridiculous. I'll put up with four more years of a Republican leader in the White House who has experience and grey hair and we'll let Clinton get us out of this mess and back on the road to greatness in 2012.

Hagel as VP would not be a good idea. It is about the economy and civil liberties first…..the albatross that is Iraq and other foreign policy issues can be addressed by any number of democrats and it does not have to be the VP. Hagel to way too far to the right on some domestic stuff and simply would be overkill. Reed, Biden or Wes Clark would work better if the VP slot has be include a white male. Personally, I would much prefer Kathleen Sebelius over any of the others.

Obama doesn't have a chance. Our glorious leader (cough) will start WW III (Iran) and lead America past total destruction. There's a draft just around the corner.

Hey Norma the The biggest Dope here is you. You and your elk hate the fact things are working out in Iraq.

you cannot stand the fact Bush will get credit for it. you and your party just wants to lose because you have no guts on how to win. McCain might not be so great, but Obama is a fool.

Sen. Obama said he will visit Iraq and Afghanistan this summer.
Sen. Obama said he will debate with Sen. McCain anywhere anytime.

I think the Obama campaign should just go ahead and do what they say rather than advertise them and cancel them later.

His words has no credibility.

I can't believe it till I see it.

His VP candidages should have run for president themselves.

(Sen. Barack H Obama has to take someone with him who can think on his feet because Sen. Obama has a reputation for not being able to give off the cuff statements, answers, or ask appropriate questions.

Sen. Obama is trying to court Republican votes and that's why he's not going with two Democrats. Don't be deceived by Politics.)

Wow, do you honestly think that. Obama has graduated from Havard, served 1 term on the senate, and then beat the clintons. Are you really doubting his intelligence?

Second, if he was able to accomplish that for himself. Can you imagine what he could do for the country?

Third, he predicted the outcome of the iraq war and voted against it. Mcain voted for it.

Now, what has Mcain accomplished in comparison? He was a POW? I do respect his patriotism, but i do believe he belongs in the Military.

Also, hes 72 years old. I don't think they would hire him at my IT Job, so why should he be qualified to run the country? Don't give me the age discirmation, it's a scientific fact that your cognitive abilities dwindle with age.

We have seen what 8 years of Bush, now let's see something different.

Obama will go in what ever direction the voters will favor it the most. That is the way he is ,he goes that way on almost every issue.What ever is the popular thing at the time with the voters. Right down to having a Republican for a running Mate .Go figure ?

Hagel as Obama's VP is ridiculous! Can you imagine the Democratic Convention supporting Obama with a Republican VP? First the Democratic National Committee gave Obama some of our votes away from Hillary when he wasn't even on the ballot. Now he would consider a Republican VP??? I voted a Democratic Primary ticket for Hillary with a portion of my vote going to someone not on the ballot that becomes the nominee that considers a Republican VP?? What happened to our vote matters?? It means less everyday. I hope the Democrats get smart and figure out a way to put Hillary Clinton as our Presidental nominee during the convention.

I'd rather Senator Obama stayed in the States, but if he feels he must go overseas, then so be it.

I wouldn't mind Hagel as VP, but I'd prefer Biden, Edwards, or Clinton amongst others. Hagel seems like an intelligent man.

All this VP talk is rediculous…….we are still 4 months away from the general election……the only person who has a VP already is Ralph Nader

Let obama go overseas with whoever he wants……Either way he will be embraced with open arms from all of the places he wants to go….polls show an overwhelming number of the WORLD want Obama as President…..

Chuck Hagel would be a smart choice for VP on the Obama ticket.
1) Hagel gains the 10% (or more) Independant vote
2) Hagel can win over Republicans as well as those in the heartland of America
3) Hagel has a good foreign policy track-record

On the bad side, Hagel may madden very left wing voters.

This should be interesting. Hagel brings more legitimacy to the "get-out-of-Iraq-now" position.

I respect Senator Hagel's willingness to criticize his own administration but that doesn't mean he should be put on the ticket. He's still a conservative opposed to the right to privacy every Democrat and many Republicans hold dear!

Like Bill Cohen, Hagel might make a good Defense Secretary though.

As for Jack Reed, he is an excellent, hard-working, experienced Senator who would make a quiet and very popular VP. I think his VP status is the one that should be watched.

Right now, I'd have to say that Gov. Tim Kaine, and Senator's Joe Biden and Reed are in the lead for VP.

OMG Obama you are the biggest idiot I have seen in years, Of all the fine democratic senators who supported your corrupted butt, John Edwards, Joe Biden, Chris Dodd, Bill richardson,etc, and you come up with a thought like Hagel, it's no wonder Jesse Jackson could cut your nuts off, because you do not know which way is up. You are Clueless and should be minus your balls.

Ted, give it a rest…….

Obama/Hagel, i saw this one coming a longtime, these two men will create such power together, this will sure put McCain in deeper trouble than he already is in.

Whatever…Obama is an empty suit

PUMA

Not surprised. Hagel is very definitely anti-Dubbya and more recently, not close to his former buddy McCain.

He's the most democratic Republican I've ever seen. He'd be a good V.P. choice if he'd change party or at least go Independent.

I see " Who wants to be a Moron" has started, tonight's contests are: PUMA and McSame rats….

I have said all along that Chuck Hagel would make an excellent VP! It would send a clear and resounding message to the world that senator obama is dead serious about uniting our country. Our country is about evenly divided on politics, and certainly the majority is not going to be 60 seats in the senate. Bringing Senator Hagel on would be something that republicans can go for, it would allow Senator Obama to win with a huge and clear mandate 40+ states. Phone banking would be fun! you wouldhave both brands that you can sell! Go for it Senator Obama, don't let the establishement lock you down with the same old crap. Choose the sharpest penciles in the box, regardless of party, race, gender or age!

We are only in mid-July and already McCain is trying to cover his tracks and re-direct what he and his top aides are saying. Can you imagine what is going to happen once the conventions are over and the gloves are off for two solid months?

Trust me, McCain's comments about divorce being bad are going to be on every highlight reel from here to kingdom come.

Neither candidate has been completely honest and hasn't flip-flopped, but McCain will have alot of 'splaining to do when he has to clarify his comment on divorce and how it is bad.

Oh wait, did he forget that he himself is divorced? Whoops.

Auntie Coosa, Blairsville, Georgia, USofA…U REALLY THINK UR A SMART TANK, RIGHT? UR PROBABLY A BUSH SUPPORTER…I GUESS HE IS A VERY GOOD SPEAKER PER UR STANDARDS!!!!!!!!!

OMGosh… PANDER, PANDER, PANDER to the utmost degree. Is he a joke or what?

True conservatives will not vote for him - geez, their having trouble supporting the moderate McCain.

Hill supporters… STOP the madness. We must stick together to give Hill a shot in 2012. This is one of the reasons Obama boy is considering this. He knows he's in trouble if even only a third of Hill's voters go McCain.

McCain '08 for Hill '12

Wow! I'm not sure how I feel about this..first thought..is this what they mean by 'one world order'…….

Two words..one v.p…
Ron Paul….

What an absolutely great idea.

Republican whiners in general are pretty pathetic. Unable to accept responsibility for the state of the country their President created, unable to understand that pre-emptive strikes are illegitimate, unable to understand that taxing high-bracket individuals reflects diminishing marginal returns to a dollar of income, unable to accept that diversity is becoming the rule, unable to understand that knowing more than English is a smart idea, unable to understand that Republicans have wasted more money in the past 8 years than Democrats have in a century…. it goes on and on. They won't be happy until yet another old, caucasion right-wing hawk is perturbing the world, emptying the bank and ruining America's already abysmal reputation. Thanks, Republicans.

I think Hagel was Obama’s first choice.

It is not possible for Barack to get the copy or Iraq for Dummies…..the president isn't done coloring in it yet.

It is not possible for Barack to get the copy or Iraq for Dummies…..the president isn't don't coloring in it yet.

President Obama will be the world president for sure..
Vote for future, vote for prosperity, vote to end Washington's corruption and fear tactics………………………….Obama 08/12