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

so, why is it when Obama considers a republican for VP, it's considered "change," and when McCain considers Lieberman, it's considered "being a traitor?"

sounds like more obamabot hypocrisy to me

As usual, Obama is smart enough to surround himself with good people – unlike McCain and our present president. And for those "democrats" who are voting for McCain because of his 'experience', would you vote for Bush IF he could run again? It's essentially the same thing.

Obama on the same track as bush. Hummm!

Obama is between a rock and a hard spot when it comes to Iraq! If he does not listen to the commander on the ground in Iraq he will surely lose votes and if he listens to the commanders he will lose the far left anti war people! Its a losing situration for obama and John McCain will end up the better of the two on the Iraq war!

NObama '08

Obama should take someone who will challenge his thinking. Neither Reed nor Hagel will do that. It would be interesting if he took someone like Lieberman. Obama, Reed, and Hagel will be nothing but group think. Dare to take someone other than those who'll simply agree with you Obama!

BTW – Hagel won't attract many Republican votes to Obama. He's as out of favor in the Republican party as Lieberman is in the Democratic Party. In fact Hagel on Obama's ticket would be one reason for me to vote against Obama.

Seriously, folks, do you all really think using terms like, McLame, McBush, McSame, Hilliterates, and Loserman helps to make your argument seem valid? What are we, in elementary school?! Obama is trying to elevate the level of conversation. How about we try it?

donna

vote for hagel
who the hell cares

Carole, people does not have to be a republican to think that in some cases the death penalty should be considered. This is an awful misconception people have. If Bin Laden was the master mind behind 9/11, republicans are not the only party that agree that he should get the most harsh sentence available. This right and left thing is a bunch of BS.

Reed and Hagel are excellent choices to take on the trip.

It show that Obama knows how to maximize the use of his time and build bridges.

Judement and leadership prevails: Obama 08!!

I like that he is going with a bi-partisan committee to Iraq. He is showing us how he will act when president. I'm a democrat and I really think that Hillary should be his choice, even though I didn't like how she comported herself in the primaries. If he chooses a republican, I'm fine with that too. It's time to put bi-partisan politics behind us, and solve the challenges that lie ahead.

Just as he chose to compromise on the FISA bill, I think he'll help the country find common ground between the parties, while holding off special interests and lobbyists that have fueled the bi-partisan bickering that has kept us from progressing as a nation.

Mc-"needs-a-Cain" does not know the difference between Shiites and Sunnis; he is the one that needs the copy of Iraq for Dummies.”

I would think Romney would be a good choice.

Oh … what about Mc Cain picking Hillary as VP then? They are a perfect match.

She thinks McCain is qualified to be Commander in chief and Obama isn't and he has had nothing but praise for her recently. And both love to "bomb bomb bomb" and "annihilate" Iran.

I think everyone here is too delusional (Republican or Democrat), either one of these guys are going to be horrible for the US.

McCain is a long-term Washington senator (one of most liberal Republicans)

Obama is a short-term Washington senator who changes sides/ideas/positions as fast as McCain can (one of the most liberal Democrats)

SMART. Obama is doing this on his own time.

Flip-flop my foot. If Obama is Flexible to get it right. he's a winner. Get on the Obama train or get out of the way.

I wanted Hagel to run for president – he's a Republican, a Vietnam combat vet, is against the Iraq invasion and has no use for Bush. If Obama chooses him, this Republican will vote Democrat.

I'm no Obama fan, and I will either leave that spot blank or vote for Nader.

But really, Obama fans, do you believe this? No. This is just a piece of nonsense written to get you all going. No Democrat is going to put a Republican in line for the presidency.

Get real!

To All McCain lovers (the ones who actually work), ask Senator McShame is your Social Security secure will you retire.

speculate all you want,but,president obama will choose the next vice president,when and who HE wants.the rest of you are irrelevant.

I like that fact that Chuck Hagel is accompanying Obama. Either Hagel will be a possible VP choice or in an Obama administration. Obama's trip will show that he can handle himself on the world stage. It is time for a change in economic policy and foreign policy. Obama 2008

I'm canadian but do pay a small amount of attention to you presidential races. I just have a question that needs answering. How come a democrat can choose a republican as his VP? I don't get that. Why is he allowed to choose anyone he wants and it isn't selected by the democratic party?

Pick anybody you want; B. Hussein Obama is still B. Hussein Obama.

neither one will be the Veep cause before the selection process, obama will throw them under the bus along with his preacher and his grandmother.

i am sick of my neighbors being bitter and clingers. I am a bible reader and hold my guns close.

obama is going down to defeat. Utterly

The only issue in common between Senator Hagel and Barack Obama is
Iraq. What is the sense of picking Hagel. He is extremely to the right of the middle which would not win many votes of women's rights, labor and the poor.

Hagel has betrayed our great state of Nebraska. he should resign from his position as our senator. Just go away.

I've been hoping for an Obama/Hagel ticket for a while now, since I first read CNN's VP candidates for Obama. Obama/Hagel could get along well due to their apparent friendship, and could also represent the country as a whole at the same time. Hagel would help gain independants LEANING REPUBLICAN, and yet doesn't look like a completly political move. Hagel adds needed age/experience and foreign policy credentials. I believe Hagel could also help steal a lot of the Republicans that are sick of the war in Iraq. As for the con of Hagel being a conservative (according to CNN's VP candidate story), I just don't see that as a con. Obama would be surrounded by people who tell him the truth, instead of yes people like Bush has.

Obama is not afraid to do a lot of things and he has great wisdom. I am so looking forward to his presidency. It would be awesome to have a bi-partisan executive branch to our government…the first step in getting things in this country turned around.

What do you call a "dem" who won't vote for Obama?

Seems to me that there are a lot of people who love their country enough that they will support an unknown but excellent choice for president rather than a known but unqualified choice. Get over it!

This country is going to be forced to become an equal opportunity employer. Y'all can be drug along screaming and kicking or join the march.

That's ridiculous. Sorry, he keeps leaning to the right. Between this and voting to give the telecommunications companies amnesty…. I'll probably still vote for him over McCain, but I have contributed my last dollar.

My husband is Russian and came to the US in 1979. His English is better than mine! In Russia, Japan and most European countries they teach English in their schools. I think the US would be competitive in this global economy if they learned another language other than English. My children are bilingual Russian-English and it has helped them tremendously. I think Obama is right, we should learn other languages, maybe then we will become a country of independent thinkers instead of a country group thinkers.

Hagel! All the way, Obama! Good luck and make us proud over there! I KNOW you won't pick YOUR nose in public or leave the parting shot of "Goodbye, from the world's biggest polluter" and grin and jab the air, while other G8 world leaders are looking on in shock. You are thinking on your feet. I CANNOT WAIT UNTIL NOVEMBER.

Chris Spring from TX YES, We WILL take Hagel, Leiberman R-Israel needs to leave and SOON.

I agree so many people are just plain idiots or racises; but are too stupid to admit it… Obama is the best thing this country has seen in a generation, since Kennedy!

Hagel would be par for the course for the Democratic presumptive nominee – BHO, since he is trying to pander to every voting block in the U.S., including evangelicals and conservative Republicans. Politics more than usual for the presumptive far left candidate.

Mr Hagel would be a better choice for President then the jokers on the top of the tickets! Be real, step up to Barr. Barr is for ALL Americans! He will bring this country back to greatness! In order to succeed, we must open our minds beyond the two-party system.

A bipartisan ticket is just what we need! I believe a joint ticket of this nature will unite both parties at a time when unification is so desperately needed. Obama's ability to reach across the party line is his first step in promoting real change. Although I still love HILLARY! An Obama/Hagel ticket is a sure thing and will be a landside victory. Join Y2W in celebrating this victory on 01.19.09. Visit Y2W.ORG for more details.

Sen. Hagel would be a far far better choice than HR(H)C! I could go for it – unless McCain picks Joe Lieberman (which he should but won't). Then I beome too conflicted to vote rationally.

Boy, this just gets getting better. What a deal, an out of source Hessien taking on a Republican as a VP. Us Democrats are just sworming in ?????. I just can't figure out what this elections means to anybody anymore. I don't like Republicans I am a strong Democrat so why in the world would would I trust a Demo wanting a Rep for a VP. I will never vote for Obama, he proves to me each and everyday he has no experience or common sense about anything but making himself look like he is King of the Hill. Sorry, but Obama sucks.

Hillary for President or no vote from me.
Just can't stand him

Man, you can just smell the fear from the comments we are seeing right now from the GOP's radical right-wing !!! Your policies are failures… Accept it "wingnuts"… and most of America sees it. Finally!!!

Hagel is the only Republican that didn't just "fall in line" with his GOP marching orders and closed his eyes to the realities of it all. Some rational thinking from Independant thinkers is just what this country needs…

Obama / Hagel '08 !!! History in the making!!!

I will rethink my vote for Obama.

Oh no! BIPARTISANSHIP! The world is coming to an end. (Sarcasm).

Wouldn't it be nice to have someone who wasn't a complete partisan hack run this country. Stop accusing Obama of "flip flopping." It's far better than "staying the course" even though it is blatantly obvious that you are wrong. Barack is the kind of guy that will listen to the people and- wait for it…. COMPROMISE! Shocker!!! John McCan't is old hat and all of you McCrazies are just scared.

OBAMA / ANYONE '08

Great! Go Obama!

I thought it is on the books that you can't have a president and vice president as two different parties. I was told this by a politican.

This is absurdity….Obama is the most left-wing politician in America. No matter what he claims about being able to reach across the aisle, this article is pure CNN propoganda trying to paint Obama as someone who actually can reach accross to Republicans, when nothing could be further from the truth.

Stop Obamunism!!

Tell the men and women we love them over there in iraq but please be carefull..let them know it's time for them to come home where they belong.

Might as well just vote for McCain after all. Obama is so out of touch with what is going on in America. He's just the reincarnation of Jimmy Carter. Remember how well his presidencey turned out? If he wins in November and pushes us even further down the drain then Bush has we won't get a democrat in office for 20 years. I think I'll just move to Canada.

Even Germany doesn't want Obama. Obama now wants to position himself next to the Brandenburg Gate! That actually makes me laugh, after I throw up! That's where President Reagan — after making America strong miliariliy — was able to say, "Mr Gorbachev, tear down this wall" — and down it came.

Obama 's "claim to fame" now is to sponsor a race car! Geeze — how stupid are the Obamabots to go for this — guess plenty stupid! But NOT the rest of us!

Obama is truly digging his own grave! Meanwhile, McCain is running great ads — with dignity and substance! And I'll take that any time!

I am an old lady Democrat who would be thrilled with Hagel, as well as Nunn, Richardson or the governor of PA. I want to save Biden for DOD, Dodd for State and Edwards for AG. How's that for a powerhouse group..

Doesn't it bother you idiots that fell in love with this charlatan, that
he used the liberal wing of democratic party during the primary the
way Bush used the right wing conservatives. Once primary is over BO can't sprint fast enough to the middle. For someone that is supposed to be about change seems pretty old school to me.

The tragey of this whole thing, is that these are the two best guys we
can come up with – McCain and Obama – pathetic.

One is just a senior moment away from blowing us into obilivion and the other is a snake oil salesman that we have just seen the first of many flip flops from – he has no experience at balancing budgets nor any international credentials – yet we think his is going to lead out of the bushes Bush is leaving us in – he may look like Alfred E. Newman but we are mad for following him and his – What me worrry! attitude.

Obama is already in danger of losing some Democrats on going to the center on certain issues. I can't believe Obama can't pick a moderate Democrat, and still make moderate independents and unhappy Republicans feel comfortable, while also not being too far to the right for Democrats. Chuck Hagel is a good man, and I have to thank Sen. Hagel for standing up to his own party, and the President when it comes to the Iraq war, but that's where it stops. He is still a right leaning Republican, and still opposes 90% of the issues Democrats support. I think a moderate Democrat from a red state like Sen. Evan Bayh would be the better choice.

Obama/Dem 2008

not Hagel

I love Obama

I do not like the Republican leadership that has acted so dishonestly.

Much LOVE AND PRAYERS. Three (3) GOOD MEN will make a difference (thank you Slim) Be safe guys and acomplish your mission. AMERICA NEEDS YOU!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Marc PDX July 11th, 2008 6:30 pm ET

Quick! Somebody send Barack a copy of "The Iraq War for Dummies" before he goes
Can't, Dick isn't done reading it to George yet

Yeah! In 4 years maybe we could have a Newt Gingrich – Al Gore ticket? Woo hoo.

Or Hagel's just a good guy to go to Iraq with.

So, visits to Iraq: McCain, 8 Obama 2…and counting. It's funny that McCain the old guy has traveled more than the Obamabot Himself

Auntie Coosa, Blairsville, Georgia, USofA July 11th, 2008 6:57 pm ET

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.
————————–

You are already deceived by politics. (if you're voting for McFlipFlop)

If Obama chooses a Republican, he really will be the dumbest candidate to ever run for President.

Holla at your boy!!! Holla at your boy!! LOL!! I can't wait when I run for President, LOL!!! You gotta love politics baby!

I believe that Obama will pick a person who will help him in the election. Although some may say he will pick a Republican, I look for him to pick a moderate Southern politician who has instant credibility to get things done………….

Whether Obama actually chooses Hagel or not, it is encouraging that he is demonstrating early on a desire to take advice from both sides of the aisle.
McCain doesn't stand a chance against this rival. His own friends (Hagel) are escorting Obama on tours of Iraq. That doesn't sound so great for McCain…

This could be the beginning of a new, and badly needed mix to American politics that could be the first step to a powerful third party for Americans who have had it with the same old politics of yesterday. Look at what our yesterday have brought us. Our president is working with covert policies within our boarders, and against US citizens. This president (Bush) functions like we're the enemy, the American public. It's time for a new mix…anythings better than Bush and Cheney who have made the White House resemble a cheap used car dealership.

we are not able to handle a minority member of our population, who has a handful of days in Senate office as preparation for the highest level job in the free world, it just isnt going to work, no matter how bad the liberals and short sighted want it. read the book, "If democrats had any brains they would be republicans"….very revealing reading

For all the McBush supporters, next time you fill up ur tank and it hurts, just think of McBush calling you a whiner!

Lesley July 11th, 2008 6:49 pm ET

Sounds like a good match but wasn't Hagel a lobbyist in his earlier career? That may give fodder to the Republicans and left wing Democrats and not bode well for a ticket for change.
———————————————————————————————–

You would have a point "IF" McCain himself wasn't also in deep cahoots with Hagel. McCain really can't blast hagel since he too is vying for him. This would actually make Hagel a great VP choice when you think about it. Hagel would be bulletproof since McCain holds him in such high regard. Any attack on Hagel would be seen as flip flop/backstabbing/jealousy.

The trip to Iraq should be a good one with these two good men accompanying Mr. Obama. THREE GOOD MEN, WILL MAKE A DIFFERENCE AND A CHANGE. GO GUYS we wish you love and much prayers.

It wont be the first time Dems & Repubs go on such a trip together get a life people. Barack has not chosen a VP yet!

senator Obama,

there is NOTHING in the middle, between GOP and DNC, between the right and the left.

you can get majority votes only by making persuasive arguments,

not by having a one-from-each-side ticket.

sigh.

Mr. Obama what the Hell are you thinking..I cannot stand either nominee…Mr. Hagel is a pro life conservative…the only thing he has in common with me (lifelong liberal ) is he view of this Iraq WAr…why would Obama pick a republican when we have soo many great democrats out there…he is such a phony and his wife is NO JACKIE O…please Jackie was a beautiful woman inside and out and always thought of others before herself….

Noone has to whisper in OBAMA's ear …he wears an earpiece or uses a teleprompter. Where have people been??? Under a rock.

I hope McCain chooses Hillary.

Donna – bye!

Obama = Flip Flop version of an inexperienced version of John Kerry = 14% of Democrats unsure of his legitamacy as President due to his inexperience = John McCain as President in 2009.

If Obama can pick Hagel, let McCain pick Hillary and call me a McCain/Clinton supporter.

This scenario was played out (Alan Alda was the Rep candidate for Pres and Jimmy Smits the Dem candidate for Pres) in a recently cancelled T.V. Show – 'West Wing". There Alda, aka. Arnold Vinik is the senior between the 2 of them, like McCain, the experienced between the 2 of them, like McCain..and Smits wins in the end and picks Alda as his Secretary of State.

Why don't we just let CNN, the pundits and analyst pick who's going to 'WIN' and have Obama or McCain just pick the 'LOSER' as the V.P.

Please, from a civics minded Democrat who in the 2000 RIGGED Election saw the decision go to a Supreme Court Judge by the name of Kennedy, let the voters choose for a change. Thank you

Oops! Obama takes a democrat and a republican with him, how smart can one be. Now John McCain can't say that Obama came back with an "democrat only opinion". Looks like the fox, McCain, got out foxed.

I would love to see Obama with a Republican VP. Sounds good to me.

This clown would get Charles Manson for a VP if he thought it would get some votes. When is America going to wake up and figure out this rhetorical sham and salesman? I fear it will be way too late.

p.s. Reagan was a great speaker who delegated often to, and took counsel from, folks with more expertise than him about certain (if not all) subjects. The right doesn't complain about that.

Mike – good ridance. Why post up comments about what you're gonna do. You guys aren't threats. You had your mind made up long ago.

So if Obama wins in November, which I doubt he will and he chooses a Republican as VP. What happens if Obama cannot continue his term, does that mean another Republican is in the white house as president????

Obama is really a republican pretending to be a democrat.

Auntie Coosa:

Two things:

Wow, he's trying to court Republican votes in an election so he can win it?? Crazy, immoral stuff!

Laughable comment about Obama when McCain speaks like a complete ignoramus, repeatedly, about middle eastern matters and has Lieberman actually whispering in his ear to save him.

Obama is sticking to his I'm the non-partisan guy who'll change politics and reach across the aisle, theme. You may not like it but it's a consistent strategy, and one that resonates with a lot of folks after all the divisive, completely partisan crap of the "uniter" "decider" Dubya.

If Obama choose a republican VP then he will not my vote. I got Democrat all the way!!

If he does I wont be able to stomach him, with all the party needs to be untied crap.

Obama can not go 24 hrs, with out FLIP < Floping ,

NO OBAMA . First he is not a Citizen of the USA. Therefgore he can not be President. Sooner than later it will come out , IN BIG HEAD LINES .

So now the Obamabots are all for Chuck Hagel? The man, while opposing the Iraq war, is a die hard conservative. I don't think the rank and file of the Democrat party would want him as their VP nominee. Kathleen Kennedy Townsend, RFK's daughter, chose an ex Republican as her running mate in 2002 and lost the election due, in part, to that decision. I hope Obama makes the same mistake.

Obama's campaign war chest should have to PAY for this "Official Congressional Trip" no matter who goes! I guarantee he will not, and the whole expensive trip will be charged off to the average American taxpayers. Just another rip-off by the Senator Obama, when most Americans cannot afford to even take a vacation themselves this summer. This family sure cannot with $5 per. gallon gas…….

Auntie Coosa: "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."

Really? Because the last time I checked, CODEL was a bipartisan trip that required at least 1 member from both parties. Try doing some research before you post such non-facts.

Mike
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.

Pleaseeee, you have never been a Democrat….. And what experience do McCain really have ?? Do you even know what he have done.will do, for you or any one else ????

He flip flops every day on issues.. Pander and scares us about Iran and Iraq… Offers us more free trade with china, as long as it is good for china…

Maybe McCain will move to Iraq and run the war from there ?? maybe even sign you up for a few tours…

Chuck Hagel would be good in a cabinet position but not as VP. If senate votes come down to ties you want the tie-breaker (the VP) to be a member of your party and vote according to the presidents philosophy.

Ok, for the last time, Hillary supporters: It is the "Democratic Party", not the "It's Hillary Clinton's Turn Party."

You are making everyone sick with your crybaby antics and threats about voting for McCain. Just stop it, already! She lost–and, I'm sorry, but it WASN'T because she is a woman. Even Hillary is on board with Obama (except, maybe, her elitist-hating baroness friend).

If you really supported Hillary and what she stands for, then you are just simply immature at best and psychotic at worst if you vote for McCain over Obama. Your fantasy that she will somehow swoop in and save the day in 2012 is just that: in the meantime, McCain will have cowtowed to the right on at least 2 Supreme Court appointments…. and all the oldest justices are the liberals!

And, while I'm at it….. To those so-called "progressives" who are hewing and crying over the FISA vote: Give me a break!! Really? You are going to chuck everything over voting for telecom immunity???? You are nuts!

If anyone thinks Obama can't think on his feet, take a look at McCain's pathetic response to the viagara question. A REPUBLICAN analyst said he had never seen anything like it in 40 years.

'Taint going to happen. The Hillary shills will go berserk.
Draft Ventura and put a REAL Independent in the White House.

"Get him a copy of Iraq War for Dummies"

I'm sure it will be better than the Idiots

who thought there were WMD's in Iraq

That we would be greeted as Liberators

or the insurgency is in it's last throw

or at least 10 more

ok the Surge has worked but not because we put 20 or 30 thousand more troops

or that they though they could get them to read Christian books from Texas not be so Violent

it has more to do with 100,000 Sunni Militia that we are paying to stop killing us and the other insurgents

the policy by the Dummies in Washington is how we got there

so I don't think Barack Obama needs a copy of Iraq War for dummies

we have all had a front row seat for over 5 years

Marc PDX ……Quick! Somebody send Barack a copy of "The Iraq War for Dummies" before he goes…….I think your MOM got the LAST copy

I think it is good idea to consider Hagel as vp. it will show how obama is different from all this politiation. I really want see obama going to europe, midle east see how tpeople are well come to him.

Obama has flip flopped on the Invasion of Privacy Bill protecting the Telecoms. He's going to flip flopping on Iraq, once 'better informed' via this upcoming trip that McCain suggested he take. Now after he and the Democratic D.C Elite have pressured Hillary to suspend her campaign, we are getting a 'glimpse' of a Democratic version of G.W. Bush (OJT), with Obama's lack of experience.

Hagel, Webb or Reed – Obama's in search of experience he does not have. Recent polls show only a 4% difference, call it voters remorse, between Democrats choosing Obama or Hillary, with 14% now undecided and the exact formula for McCain to win if they flip flopp over to McCain from the Democratic side of the ledger.

One person with experience that has been described in a negative light by CNN, the pundits and analysts but can be a good thing to ensure those 14% of Democratic VOTERS upset with how the DNC stepped in stole the ending, would be

A) Hillary unsuspending her campaign at the Convention forcing a floor fight if Obama doesn't have the sense to pick her as his #2 or

B) The same D.C. Dictators..err..Democrats that ordered Hillary to suspend or be banished $20M in debt because they 'ABANDONED' her in the end…they now turn the table on Obama and order him to select EXPERIENCE 18 MILLION voters have already signed up and apparently are still LOYAL TOO…Ms. Hillary Rodham Clinton or

C) Hillary unsuspends her campaign at the convention and fights Obama for the 150 delegates out of 4,000 he won by and we all go home winners with a candidate who you KNOW has experience and showed her dedication to us, the VOTING PUBLIC by NEVER QUITTING or FLIP FLOPPING on her commnitments to us.

I do think that Sen. Reed would be a great VP, Sen. Hagel Defense Secretary, our healthcare program would do great with Sen. Hillary Clinton . and even better Sen. Obama as President.

Really doesn't matter who Obama picks. He's a sorry choice for president all around — and the American voter won't go for him no-way, no-how! The American vote is smarter than that!

FUNNY THREE HOURS AGO IT WAS DODD FOR VP !!! TOMORROW IT'LL E BACK ON HILLARY AGAIN, RIGHT WHERE IT SHOULD BE ( ATLEAST IF HE WANTS MY VOTE ) !!!!
OBAMA / CLINTON '08!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Chuck Hagel is trustworthy and has given us consistently the "straight scoop" on Iraq. He's a great person to take along on a trip to Iraq and will help guard Obama from receiving misleading information from US and Iraqui officials. That doesn't mean he has to be considered for VP. It just means that Barak Obama knows how to use good judgement.

Jimbo

Some folk will never get it. Bi-Partisan dummies….that's the only way we will get anything accomplished when Sen Obama wins this election. He plays well with others so I have not doubt that he will be able to make change happen – getting the buyin from all the party officials. He's proved his good Judgment.

Obama '08 & whoever he chooses as VP!!

I think this have a positive ring to it.. Unite the America both Dem's the the Republican party. Let bring a new way of thinking to the white house. The old way is not working.. This is Change We Can Belive In.

Chris Spring, TX:
I agree 1000%

Auntie Coosa,

I wouldn't talk too much about candidates being able to think on their feet after John McCain's disaster of an answer to the question he got about health insurance coverage of birth control and Viagra.

That was the single most awful and inept answer to a political question I have ever seen.

McCain is 71 and will be 72 at the end of August.

Forget paying attention to politics, we need to elect somebody that we can reasonably expect to live out all 4 years of his term.

Obama '08!

He's taking Hagel? Cannot wait to see what he reports to us. He needs to go to Afghanistan. Bush & Co never talk about that war.

Mommyof2:

I am not an Obama supporter, but he does need to go. Obama's current policy statements concerning troop withdrawal are not realistic given currrent regional situation. Trust me the Generals he will be talking to will give him straight information. The General's want to see their mission succeed, but at the same time have a desire to come home. No soldier wants to remain in a combat theater any longer than necessary. To suggest otherwise questions the integrity of our military leadership on the ground.

Yes, I have been there and done that. OIF2 Veteran

Based on where Obama is positioning himself now all the people that voted for him should have voted for Clinton. Just another politician. And is proved himself to be a man of change — changing his positions!

It's either Obama/Clinton for me or I will not vote for the democratic ticket!

Dick Cheney is one of the most "experienced" lawmakers in the country today. Look where that has gotten us. It's time for some new blood and a fresh viewpoint. Conventional "wisdom" has brought us to where we are today. So what's wrong with doing something "unconventional?"
I'm a staunch Democrat who would greatly support Chuck Hagel as a VP. He is well respected and isn't afraid to be critical of policies that clearly don't work.
New thinking, new strategies, new ideas, fresh perspectives? Be careful everyone if we buy into this, we may just get out of the war, boost our economy, improve our stature in the world and return to being the great beacon on the hill that we once were.

Good job Senator Obama! That's the way to work it as a team of unity. Unity does not mean within a particular party itself. It means to unify the country as a one nation and one America. Congradulation!!

Obama!
Teleprompter to the left……..Teleprompter to the right..

So Obama is going to try to do what Kerry failed to do when he wanted McCain?

These folks need some serious counseling.

Take down that WARMOUNGER McPander!

Too bad McBush wasn't still in jail

This is great. Obama picks a Republican as a veep running mate.
Now all we need is to have McCain make it a clean sweep-pick
Independent ex-Democrat Joe Liebermann as his veep.
A presidential race for the ages.

I think it is great that Obama is bringing two different view points along with him on his trips. How can things get better if no one provides a different perspective? Bush surrounded himself with a bunch of "yes" men and look where that got us. No one had the courage to stand up and say "Wait a minute Bush." Those who did (Colin Powell), left the scene either on their own accord or Bush sent them packing. Hagel is not my first choice for VP, but he definitely is not the worst.

Obama '08

This is the dumbest post ever. Did you think of this yourself while tripping on acid? Or simply act as a mindless conduit for Obama's flack as they try to spin him away from his (truthful) image as an ivory tower liberal? I suspect the latter. Not even acid could convince anyone that Obama would *really* consider a Republican. BTW, the whole beltway knows he's looking at Sam Nunn for VP. Gotta win back those white males leaning toward McCain…

Give it a rest…Hagel is going to Iraq with Obama…no where does the campaign say Hagel is being considered for VP

For a countryalways complaining about partisan politics, you would think voters would embrace this bipartisan trip.

Good for both Hagel and Obama!!!

Oh Yeah, I predict Hagel will take his name out of the running for VP. NO ONE wants to be on the ticket with the clown from Chicago.
PUMA

Way to go Bam! Go with some real people and no stunks!

Yeah, like that will ever happen – NOT!

Nothing against Hagel, in fact, he is one republican that I actually like. However, if by chance something were to happen and Obama could not fulfill the presidency, Hagel would be the one to take over and there is absolutely no way the dems would allow that to happen.

Obama / Clinton '08

That's my man, going for the real change. Give them all the show what kind of foreign relations high developed american leader and future Commander in Chief you are. Don't worry about that b… of an Hillary fundraiser who don't like you. After you be President she will be standing at the door of the White House and you know why.

According to the American Heritage College Dictionary, refine means "To use precise distinctions and subtlety in thought or speech"
To purify is another definition, but the word change (flip-flop) has no place in refinement. It is a tragedy more Americans are uneducated!. To me, that should seriously be national security concern.

Obama picking a Republican… I wish, but no way will he do that

Let Obama have Hagel.
McCain/Clinton and her 18MILLION voters=President McCain!

N Thomas you have a point there,
at least with them still in the military they have jobs. The FDIC just took over Indymac bank today.

Genius….genius…..genius!!!!

I am an Obama supporter. If he picks Hagel (of Diebold fame!) for his running mate, he loses my vote. Easy as that.

Yuppers, a lot of negative comments for Obama from the McCain supporters. No positive comments to share about their own candidate. Maybe that's what's wrong with the GOP? Too many negatives to swim in? Maybe… I'll stay positive and optimistic for a change. It's like listening to the one who complains the most and thinking "Oh gees, where we go again???"

You people are idiots.

You have space provided free to build up your own candidate.

Instead, you show your ignorance by making negative statements about the opposing.

You're just like the politicians you're so sick of. And I'm getting sick of negative, negative, negative, ad nauseum.

GROW UP

Good, he can pick Hagel and McCain can pick Hillary. Nobama will lose by a landslide.
PUMA

It won't happen because alot of Dem. voters will be turned off. This is just the Kerry/McCain thing all over again.

Americans wake up, you can't elect a president based on affirmitive action. Obama is using white guilt, the man is dangerously unqualified and never made the tough call, something many Americans have made.

For the past 30 years that I have had the ability to vote, it had been rumored that there might be a bipartisan ticket on more than one occasion, however it has never happened.

I think it would be great, talk about change…..

Obama 08

P redictable Republicans
U ndercover
M asquerading
A s disgruntled Hillary supporters

If Obama picks any Republican for his running mate, I will vote for McCain!! Obama/Clinton '08!!!

Does the guy from Knoxville think that the Iraq War was a good idea? Did Republican promises about the war come true (for instance, lower gas prices, greeted as liberators, democracy sweeps the region, etc)? Does he think about issues or simply spout the FoxNews party line?

I guess he went to the University of Tennessee for his edukashun.

much respect to sen.chuck hagel man iam a big fan of him,barack needs to take Gen.Wesley Clark with him as well along with jack reed and joe biden!!!!!OBAMA/CLARK OR BIDEN 08!!!!!!!

Mark Anthony
You are getting the same old crap. You just don't know it. You must not be able to recognize arrogant BS when you see it.

Senator Hagel is a straight shooter and sticts to his principals. I have a lot of respect for that. I believe his courage of convictions complements Mr. Obama's very well.

it amazes me that people can look at the two candidates running for president, and even hint at voting for john mccain. obama is leagues ahead of john mccain in every aspect of the game, but I guess there something more concrete which is holding "certain voters" for embracing him..Race anyone…

Obama =the great uniter
mccain =the engine that couldn't, and should have never tried

EX-Obama Supporter Independent;
While I am disappointed at your choosing to no longer support Senator Obama, you do, at least lay out an extremely thoughtful case as to how you got there. (unlike 95 percent of the hateful posts here).

regarding his vote for Fisa, (and the Dem's utter capitualation) I am as utterly disenfranchised at the gutting of the constitution. As i heard a speaker on Randi Rhodes, and a different speaker on Olbereman, the rationale for supporting the bill was that it re-established the safeguards of needing warrants.

That was was Obama's deciding factor; that there would be SOME paper trail as to who was asking for tapping and why. it RE-ESTABLISHED that provision totaly wiped out via the Patriot act. The immunity for the telecoms is utterly disgusting. And it is something Obama has pledged to have reviewed as president. That is his rationale. Whether you agree with him and his judgement on THIS; it is WHY he did it.

But again; at least you came to your conclusion through a process other than being fed a line from fox, cnn, or wherever….

it is nice to actually see a thoughtful post as opposed to just rants, ramblings, or the spouting of hateful slogans, half-truths, and outright lies.

Everyone but Dick Cheney and George Bush is going to win with an Obama / Hagel ticket.

The only Obama supporter I like is the Obama supporter from FL. The rest of you are a bunch of cult members.

How far right is Obama going to move– Look at Hagel's positions on issues other than Iraq. McCain is more liberal than Hagel?
Boy, Obama is becoming more of a disappointment every day.

Hagel and McCain has probably forgotten more about how to deal with foreign affairs than Barack knows with his community organizing experience. He is a major joke.

Obama/Hagel? LOL

How about McCain/Hillary, Now, THAT's a winning ticket!

Nobama, ever. No matter who's on the ticket, Obama remains unqualified to be President of the U.S.

Come on superdelegates, it's not too late to vote for Hillary at the ACTUAL DNC convention in late August in Denver. Hillary remains the most qualified and most electable candidate. Hillary already won the popular vote, winning more votes than ANY candidate of ANY party in history! Let's give some credit where much credit is due media!!!!!!!!

@ Mike

What exactly does McCain have for experience? He was a POW, not a commander.

Wise move on Obama's part. Hagel isn't a bad guy.

when he gets back o bama can say he now has military experience….did one tour in iraq…. the green zone….. use people all you can…. what is your carbon trail while your at it////

The idea is to pick the BEST person for the job that is literally only a heartbeat away from the presidency. I trust that Barack will once again put what's best for the nation ahead of the partisan politics of John McSame.

Go Sen Obama! We are happy for you.

If he wants to win he gotta pick CLinton even though he does not like her

Senator Hagel would be a good choice for Senator Obama. He'll be able to get 1st hand information on what the Republican (not necessarily the conservatives) agenda is. A lot of things can get done when both sides work together and compromise. When both sides want it their way or no way, we get what we have now, which is NOTHING.

I don't know if a Republican on the VP ticket is a good idea but it is up to Presential Elect Barack Obama to choose his running mate. In view of the fact many factors need to be taken under consideration to choose a VP, therefore it is wrong and unfair for the Hillary Clinton suppoters to take this strong-arm attitude and dictatorial attitude to say they will vote for McCain if Obama do not choose Clinton as VP. Who do these people think they are dictating to a Presidental candidate that way I expect to hear that kind of talk coming from third world dictators, not from americans the land of the free where freedom of speech and choice is what this country was founded on. What a selfish position to take. Is this what an elitist look like or is it plain ignorance. Shame on them.

The gentelman on th ireport that made the comment that the only change he ever seen a black person do is hold a change cup is all of the above: racist, ignorant, arrogant, mean, bigotry, degrading himself, redneck who thinks himself is better than black people the truth of the matter is he has fallen to the lowest common denominater and is truly in need of the great God. Shame on him. The lady also on iReport who said she is democrat and has switched to Republican because she believe Obama is a muslim no doubts a liar, its the other reason a closet racist because Obama is not a Muslim and she darn well knows it. She just needs an excuse not to vote for him because he is black. May God have mercy on her lying sole. Shame on her.

Get me some popcorn the show is about to start. I love this

Obama 08

JEEBUS!!! give it a rest. the man cannot even shake someones hand and the next thing you know, everyone asks, "is that his VP pick".

not important July 11th, 2008 6:37 pm ET

"I really do hope that Iraq will not be another South Vietnam."

Yeah, Iraq is Vietnam = Quagmire

Hagel might be just what we need now. Balance in the White House. Opposing points of view to get at the best and most balanced solution to our problems.

As for the Hillarites that want to vote for Nadar, McSame, Hitler, Stalin or whatever, I guess their only criteria for choosing a candidate is that they wear the same pant suite. God knows it has nothing to do with the similarity of their positions and experience!

Either one of these Senators would be a winner, Senator Reed or Senator Hagel !! I would like to see Senator Stabenow, D-Michigan, as Senator Obama's running mate. She would make an excellent Vice-President and she is a fighter for the working American. Whoever Senator Obama chooses, he will make a well-informed and realistic choice.
SUPPORT OUR TROOPS, BRING THEM HOME, ALIVE AND WHOLE. NOW.

Wow, all of these republican haters online

I predicted that he would migrate to the center if he won when he was up against Hillary during the primaries. I supported her because she was already there at the center.

For real progress both parties must work together. Putting Hagel on the ticket would be great and would be a great start to validating the promise of true unity. A good leader needs to think out of the box, and many times you need advice from unexpected sources.

Barck O bama will lose without a question if he chose Cuck Hagel. This would be a really stupid choice. Who the hell knows Cuck Hagel?

I don't know much about Hagel, but Obama choosing a republican VP that shares the same goals would be genius. Not just for winning but for
actual unity. To mama4obama, you are absolutely right:

Bring different teams together works in the corporate world and will work in government.

This is EXACTLY what we need.

Obama '08, '12

I really don't see the point of going to Iraq. There's nothing going on there that can show that it was a good idea to invade a country that had nothing to do with 9/11, that isn't harboring bin Laden, that is sucking down resources while doing nothing to improve our position in the Middle East, and that doesn't want us there in the first place.

There's nothing left to prove in Iraq. There never was.

Any Democrat who would vote for McCain is an idiot.

And Auntie Coosa…even most of your fellow klan members have given up the "Hussein" crap. Your stupid little "H" is not in the least subtle, and you are not in the least clever.

This guy is a GEnius.

Obama .08

Barack Obama's trip to Iraq probably will accomplish more than McCain's trips have.

McCain has taken trips to Iraq where he walked around with heavy protective gear and helmet on, surrounded by 100 heavily-armed troops, in a small market area pre-secured for the day and then announced that it was safe to walk in Baghdad.

Obama will tell it like it really is. He couldn't do as bad as McCain.

This guy is a Genius.

Watch the people of Germany and Canada. They will go crazy when he visits. I love those countries.

Obama/McCain '08

or McCain/Obama 08

Way to go!

Back to Clinton/Clark for 2008

go back go back to the right things in this country us working together partners in everything I believe in HOPE & FREEDOM

All the world over, so easy to see
People everywhere just wanna be free
Listen, please listen, that's the way it should be
Peace in the valley, people got to be free

You should see what a lovely, lovely world this'd be
Everyone learns to live together
Seems to me such an easy, easy thing should be
Why can't you and me learn to love one another

All the world over, so easy to see
People everywhere just wanna be free (wanna be free)
I can't understand it, so simple to me (it is)
People everywhere just got to be free

If there's a man who is down and needs a helping hand
All it takes is you to understand and to pull him through
Seems to me we got to solve it individually
And I'll do unto you what you do to me

There'll be shoutin' from the mountains on out to sea (out to sea)
No two ways about it, people have to be free (they got to be free)
Ask me my opinion, my opinion will be (ah-ha)
It's a natural situation for a man to be free

Oh, what a feelin's just come over me
It's enough to move a mountain, make a blind man see
Everybody's dancin' [unintelligible]
Peace in the valley, now they want to be free

See that train over there
Now that's the train of freedom
It's about to arrive any minute, now
You know, it's been long, long overdue
Look out 'cause it's comin' right on through [fade]

Obama is not going to choose Hagel. lol. This is more BS from the Media. Only the foolish would fall for this kind of rumor.

No Republicans in the White House! Don't let these shady crooks anywhere near the White House or a position of power. America is going to be paying for their mistakes for generations!

this will be his undoing with his base

Go for it, Obama! Hagel's a good choice if you want to pick up votes.

It is a shame that this article failed to mention that it is customary practice for these trips to be bi-partisan. This VP talk is wild speculation.

OMG! This is too funny. See what happens when you sell your soul (and everyone you know) to the devil just to stroke your ego so you can be President! Obama won't be able to say ANYTHING about John McCain being "too old." How stupid does Obama think we are? He's just whoring himself out so he will appeal and be loved by everyone. He's a weirdo.

Chuck Hagel is way to good to run with this phony guy. Has he maintained one position he had during the primary. What a sellout he is, I'm so glad I never supported this man. Hope and change, what a joke, he looks more like George Bush everyday. How could any decent person support FISA. What a shock that the candidate of change would sell everyone out. LOL

This message is for "Christina" on a previous blog. chastizing Hispanics for McCain. My Hispanic family has been in this country since we founded Fla, Texas and the other SW states, We did not come from Mexico as you might think or have been led to believe.
We destest Socialism and Communism because these two ideologies are in contrast with our family values and our nation.

The border fence is necessary to keep out illegal entrants. My only regret is that my ancestors did not put one across the Mississppi River and keep you Eastern Liberals out of the West.

We are strong supporters of McCain and our Country. We will not allow our country to fall into the hands of those who are intent on destroying it. And we can sing the National Anthem in English, our children serve voluntarily in Iraq and Afghanistan, just like I did in Vietnam and my father in Korea, My grandfather in WWII and his father before him in WWI. So, yes we support the Patriot McCain and will
get him elected.

Obama/McCain '08

or McCain/Obama 08

Way to go!

Please stop Romney from destroying Social Security !!!

Obama names a republican as VP and he will lose my vote. Make Sec of State or another cabnit position, but not VP. This is going to far. Hilliary we may need a true Democrate to run for President.

And because of the war in Iraq communist China is strong. Yeah thanks alot George W. Bush. USA is in debt to communist China. Why did Bush had to get money from China to fund the Iraq war? Why not Japan and South Korea? No the smart guy picked China.

I am a republican who voted for Obama in the primary and will vote for him in the general. All of you poor, stupid, primitive and undereducated democrats who are voting for McCain because Hillary did win – go right away, you are the people who can't afford to fill up you gas tank; can't afford to go on vacation, and can't afford another 4 or 8 years of another Republican. Please go on ahead and we will see you eating dirt out of your yard – if you have a yard at the end of the term. Good luck!

This is all MEDIA speculation. Obama is working on his first 100 days in office. Smart men pave the way, while foolish men waits on chance.
Tell me, when have any foriegn country ever wanted our Presidential nominee of any party come and hold a rally in their country? NEVER. But Great Britain, France, Isreal and Germany to name a few, want to attend just one Obama rally. While some in this country has nothing but negetive things to say of him. Yes, Gramm was right, we are a nation of whinners, wanting everything at our finger tips. Go Obama, the world is waiting for you.

Go ahead and bash them all you want, Senator Reed is one of the most respected senators in Washington when it comes to foreign policy matters, and Hagel is respected by many democrats for his strong words against the Bush doctrine of foreign policy. This is a wise move, and he's actually going overseas with people of the opposing party, but I'm sure Republicans will still find something negative about this trip.

The great thing about keeping a Republican in office, is that you never have to admit you're wrong, (alway handy!), and if you're never WRONG, you NEVER have to correct your mistakes.
Like a war that was a lie.
Which is why we are in debt up to our armpits to China and Japan, our 'loan partners' for the war, and why you will never see the trade deficit between the U.S. ever be addressed. We simply owe China too much money to worry about unemployed U.S. citizens.
The march of freedom has price after all.

Go Mr. Obama and bring home some troops.. they dont need to live in those deserts, while McPain is sipping on his Pina Colada's in his wife's home
OBAMA (2008 -16)

Donna relax, Hillary will never become Pre-si-dent! The Change we seek and the CHANGE military officer's like me believe in is an OBAMA-HAGEL ticket and it will HAPPEN! OBAMA kind of change is so REVOLUTIONARY only Lincoln know's about this kind of movement. Wake up and help UNITE the country. I am sure most people like Donna will never vote for OBAMA under any circumstances and using Hillary as a way out is such a lame excuse for your BIGOTRY! You most certainly would not have voted for Hillary as President you Right-wing Repub bible thumper in sheeps clothing! OBAMA-HAGEL 2008/2012 get use to saying it. YES WE CAN AND WE WILL HAVE OBAMA FOR PRESIDENT IN 08, 12, A BLK PRESIDENT FOR AMERICA AND THE WORLD!

I am a Military Officer and I approve this message!

Does Barack want to totally tick off the people who voted for him in the primaries by picking a Republican? Gimme a break! If he doesn't pick a liberal Democrat, we're all staying home on election day. The flip-flopping has been bad enough–this would push me over the edge.

The day Obama insults half the Democatic voting block by putting a Republican on the ticket, while Hillary Clinton is dismissed is the day Obama can kiss my vote ….money …and any support ….GOOOOOOD-BYE!

Obama/Clinton — one right choice for unified Democrats.

"The sources said the official Congressional delegation trip, known as a CODEL, will occur around the time Obama heads overseas for a previously-announced campaign trip"

Right so he can call the whole thing official business and Campaign in France (need the swing vote there) on the tax payers dollar.

I would vote for Obama/Hagel .

ONLY if Hagel is chosen VP, otherwise, I'll vote for a third party.

Anything to win…..

As many people said above, I believe Hagel would more likely be a cabinet position, his stances on many issues is contrary to Obama's. But, important in our governmental structure is compromise, so to at least be able to work with someone like Hagel, let alone put them in a cabinet position is a great step.

OK, Obama chooses a Republican, McCAin a woman, and the country will be REALLY confused! I really don't see how choosing a Republican helps either ticket-and frankly, if Hillary is not on the ticket or in line for a major Cabinet post, I don't see voting at all. Obama disappointed big time with his FISA vote, and then to reverse on the death penalty? I sincerely hope the DNC who pushed this man into the spotlight is having ulcers about now! Remember, superdelegates, you will be heard at the convention. It is not too late to return to Hillary…the true Democrat in the room at this point, and not afraid to go against Bush!

I think hagel is an excellent choice for VP.

Right. Pick a Republican that is so centrist even a Democrat would vote for it. (Why not just pick a democat?) Unless you're trying to sway fencesitters to your side by joining the opposition. Any Republican that would meet him halfway would be seen as a turncoat by the party, (because Republicans always stick up for each other, even it means the rest of us are left to hang,) and people might turn out just to vote against him. (Party-ism trumps the good of the counrty, at least Republican wise Gotta look out for your own…)
Or better yet, load a pistol and shoot YOURSELF in the foot.

Obama supporters are definitely a bunch of "whiners". Go get your bottle and suck on it!!!

Great this is what we really need. I thought his campaign was supposed to be about change. Not much more of the same!!

Chuck Hagel has shown in so many ways that he is intelligent, thoughtful and trustworthy. As a Canadian, I have no preferenced for party lines but I certainly do care about who is going to lead the next U.S. government. Obama/Hagel is a winner for me.

I was reading through blogs and I find something disturbing, when people have to bashed Obama even if the ticker said good things about him.

I know for some people who hate a candidate have to criticize the candidate, but not that far.

You don't have to blog if you got nothing to say you know. Because you hate someone doesn't mean you have to bashed that person even if it is happy time.

I guess most Obama haters would have prefer those ugly words from Mccain camp should have been Obama's camp.

That is how much i think those people actually hate this guy and because you hate Obama thus mean you have no issues you want the candidate to address.
If you have issues that interest you , you would have lean on the candidate that promotes your issues that matters to you.
If you like killing people, wars and someone who have no idea how to grow the economy and who promote Bush policies vote for Mccain.

Thus mean you like the way things are at the moment.

So, these are the type of people that voted for Bush because they hate Al Gor and Hate John Kerry. Hey now I guess you have not learn from your mistakes, the person you voted for is now the worst president in the history of American.

Please don't bashed these guys if they haven't done anything wrong. You may bash when you think they make mistakes or do something stupid.

These candidates doesn't bash each other the way bloggers do.

Remember guys…

No matter what Obama says, No matter what Obama does….

Whether he is 'for' an issue that is typically republican…..

Whether he is 'against' an issue that is typically republican…..

WHATEVER POSITION HE TAKES……………………….

HE WILL BE ATTACKED FOR IT……………………………

INCESSANTLY !

( he was attacked because he has not been to Iraq for a long time… now he will be attacked because he's 'going')

he will be attacked for waking up in the morning…..

he will be attacked for going to sleep at night…….

(some strategy, huh?)

it's just what you do when you can't run on your own record…….

economy ………………….. nope
job creation……………….nope
energy……………………….nope
housing…………………….nope
THE WAR………………….NOPE
family values…………….HA! please…

if you could actually run on taking care of big business, these guys would win by a landslide…..

Maybe in 2012 we will have a dem that has some experience to vote for. Alot of dems like myself are going with McCain this time. This country needs an experience leader and McCain has it. No Way to Obama….

Donna – this is probably the most important presidential race in which you will have the privilege to vote. You can vote for Nader – it is your right – but even he knows he has no chance of winning. Vote for McCain, if you must, but either he or Obama will be President. This isn't the time to "make a statement" when everywhere you turn, our country is in crisis. We seriously need a strong leader who will take the US and the world in a positive direction.

Another reason to stay home in November.

Why is it so important to pin down a date as to when Obama will visit Iraq or Afganistan? DO you have any idea as to the target you would be putting on his back in publishing such information? Granted there does exist the freedom of press but not at the potential expense of a presidential candidate! Give this information a wide birth will you! In fact why is a presidential candidates trips with exact times and dates so important to publish when going overseas? Think about this will you; you know, terrorism still exist!

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.

I will be quite impressed if Senator Obama chooses an intelligent Republican for his VP. This would further prove that he is willing to go beyond party lines for the good of the country.

Obama '08

Just because he will go to these countries for a few days does not mean that he will come back with vast foreign policy experience. McCain already has foreign policy experience because he has been doing this for years. Try again Osama!

Obama/Hagel and McCain/Lieberman that would be a combination. could go either way.

Hey Republicans! I want to propose a trade.

Democrats Take Hagel
Republicans Take Loserman

To those who would just love to see Obama fail. Is it because he not your candidate of choice or is it just you can't stand the fact the a newcommer is making a difference in the world?

People are tired of the same ole crap, it's time for change and he's the man to do it.

Marc…"Iraq War for Dummies"?? Is Bush's picture in there?? Does it come in audio for geriatric MCCAIN?

Stop hating so much..it's bad for you complexion!!!!!

Frank….yeah, a Presidential Candidate will go to a WAR ZONE alone…please think before you type!!! Did McOld go by himself

so many HATERS..so little time!!! HAHA

What is he going to do, talk to Al-Qaeda in Iraq and ask them what they want? Maybe he can go to Iran and speak to Ima nut job and see if he is willing to recognize Israel and not go into Iraq after we pull our troops out.

My son is in Iraq and he doesn't want these politicians there, pandering for votes. What they want is more ammunition and clear direction from Washington that they will not be prosecuted for doing their job and staying alive. Let or sons and daughters win the war and then bring them home with honor.

Obama knows how to get the media and the Amerian public excited!! This is the kind of President we need for America.

I cant help but to sit back and laugh at many of the comments that get posted by many of the "Haters" out there. Believe me Obama can't make this country ANY worse that what the H— you people choose to run this country into the ground over the last seven years. Although I think Grahm is noting more then a forgien currency loving old man who yells at cloud, and Mcsame is joined to his hip, he made a valid point, this country is in such a sorry state that we cant even compete with Mexico. If you want to become a third world country, keep voting the way you been voting. Hell, China own this country and Mexico will continue their reconsitution without ever firing ONE SHOT.

Republican and their flip – flop tags, getting old. Just like the dinosaur they nominated as president.

I really like Hagel, but he is Republican and not Pro Choice. If something happened to Obama, would we really want another Republican next in line? There are so many good Dems to choose from and I'm still hoping for Biden. Mark PDX, Brian from Knoxville, Puma's – since you guys hate Obama so much, why do you keep reading and posting on positive Obama stories? Your hatred is really getting tiresome, and you spew the same crap over and over. Why don't you go send Hillary some $$ to help her out, or better yet, go take an anger management course to get over your hate. I pity you people.

As a Democrat for life, I cannot vote for a candidate whose dearest friends are a vile, America hating, race baiting, militant fundamentalist (i.e., Jeremiah Wright), a committed America hating terrorist (i.e., William Ayers) and a virulent America hating extremist (i.e., Michelle Obama). McCain and America all the way in 2008!

OBAMA/HAGEL or OBAMA/REED, either way we have more than qualified winners.

Jack Reed is one of the most respectable Senators on the Hill. As an Obama Supporter, I would be ecstatic if Reed was VP. He has the same amount of Biden (who is a pop VP choice) without the speak first, think later attitude. Both of these men have enormous things to offer as VP, but I'm not too sure Hagel is close enough on the issues to be a VP choice.

More like what is needed, Bipartizan work & get togethers.

Reed sounds good…I don't know about Hagel making much sense. Hagel would be a better choice for cabinet position instead.

Marc: I'm guessing McBush is the one who needs that book, consider Obama had the judgment to oppose this foolish war and not McBush.

Obama will drop out of going to Iraq and give one if his I Have A Dream Speeches to get out of it!!!!

Sounds like a good match but wasn't Hagel a lobbyist in his earlier career? That may give fodder to the Republicans and left wing Democrats and not bode well for a ticket for change.

Obama needs to go and he also needs to keep plans quiet for security reasons. Having the other two senators along should help. Best wishes to all who go over with a goal of easing tensions.

Obama is not afraid to reach across party lines!
Bush= The Great Divider
Obama= The Great Uniter

I doubt there will be anything else for them to suggest when they come back. Bush is way ahead of the new plan and McCain will be given the priviledge to complete the mission. Sorry too late.. as always. Democrats need a real shake up. They always seem to dwell in late reaction to issues of national importance. Get rid of Pelosi.

If Obama Puts Hagel on the ticket, he will look more conservative than John McCain. Then alot of conservatives would back this ticket because of their frustration of McCain.

Obama/Hagel 2008

Hey Marc PDX,

McCain needs a copy of "The Iraq War for Dummies" much more than Obama does….McCain can't even remember the difference between Sunni & Shia!

The far left President and a right wing VP.

Okay. So far it's nothing but negative comments about Obama so I'll add one positive one.

HE'S LEADING McCAIN by 8 PERCENT and set to outspend him 4 to 1.

Somehow when you look at it that way, 1 positve beats 3 negatives.

Obama/Clark 08

So, now Obama is for the death penalty–if I had not heard differently, I would describe him as a far right republican! He is now stealing the republican platform. Me thinks he will do a turnaround on taxes and women's rights before this is over. Are you listening, Rush? I think he has become a closet Rush fan! When are we going to drill, Barrack? No one cares if you go against the left dummies like Pelosi, Dean, Brazille-we will vote for you anyway–you are our Saviour!

> Knoxville NFIL

Oh lookie… it's Brian the Republican plant from Tennessee. What's the matter Brian, did someone steal your lunch money? Have another cookie.

Everyday I go to work and everyday I work with someone who is part of another team. We accomplish much more when we cross lines and make things happen as a team. I really dont care who Obama chooses to be his VP…as long as that person has integrity and the ability to return this country to greatness.

OBAMA 08 -and beyond

Who?

Oh man, I'm getting excited. This indepent loves Hagel.

HES to scared to go alone
mr flip=flop

I wonder if he'll make the mistake of McCain and say General Petraeus never has to go out in an armored humvee and then when confronted says, "Well I never said he never goes out with protection."

And the Hilliterates, PUMAs, and GOPers comment 5…4…3…2…1

Since this is the year of the "Traitor" I would not be suprised if he picks
a Republican as his running mate. Then again everyone of has experienced a Judas in our ranks. Bill Richardson comes to mind.

It won't matter, Obama as President is not acceptable. We need an experienced seasoned Patriot at the Helm. Go McCain.

It's Hillary or I vote for Nader. Sorry, I can't support Obama as he stands right now.

Why should he go? Everything he sees will be pre-arranged by Generals and other people whose best interests are endangered by his (and our) desire to withdraw.
It's just a trap — it's propaganda — and I love how folks on here think they know more about the situation in Iraq than anyone else…. are you there????

Marc PDX

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

You go Obama!!

Obama should pick Hagel for Veep!

Great! He left McCan't behind where he belongs.

YOU foks are the ones who early on compared Obama to JFK. Now that he's trying to campaign in the same manner, you just can't stand it, can you? You can't stand that he's is a monumental success and is loved around the world…can you? So what if he speaks in front of the Brandenberg Gate? And like Jck said, it's up to the Mayor of Berlin…not the Bush Administration. So what if he accepts his party's nomination in a stadium that can actually HOLD the numbers of people that will want to see it?
You media types are looking more foolish every day (except Jack Cafferty, who apparently "gets it").

The difference between Rock Obama and Sleepy McLame is. Hagel will not have to whisper in Obama's ear to tell him the difference between a Persian and an Arab or a Shiite and a Sunni like Lieberman has to do with McBush.

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.

I really do hope that Iraq will not be another South Vietnam.

Hummm…..

Obama/Hagel 208!!!!!!!

I am sure that McSame is worried! He is going to go home and take the weekend off and rest and then he will come back on Monday and worry about it.

The Obama Hagle ticket is a sure winner!!!!

Excellent working group. Hagel is a smart guy who although Republican, does not buy into the Bush/McBush war Monger mentality.

I'd love to see Obama pick Hagel as his running mate. That would really make all your little right-wing heads spin!

Wise man! More power to Obama.

If our guys do come home from Iraq and Afghanistan any time soon, I sure hope our Congress has jobs for them!!!

I have so much respect for Mr. Chuck Hagel. This is no doubt Mr. Obama's VP. A democrat and a republican on one ticket is change we can unite about…….

Wow! A Republican VP for Obama? That'll really put a burr under Hillary's saddle. Gee, just little more movement to the right and we'll have Obama in the Republican party. Just a little more coaxing and "we'll love Obama", too!

And the fake Hillary boosters shall enter…

Quick! Somebody send Barack a copy of "The Iraq War for Dummies" before he goes!

Great!

Maybe he'll have a chance to flip-flop again… er, "further refine" his position on withrawing combat troops.

Knoxville NFIL

Obama: "Oh, all right. If I have to…."