July 24, 2008
Posted: July 24th, 2008 01:59 PM ET
CNN's new electoral map.
CNN's new electoral map.

(CNN) — Two more states have shifted to the toss-up column in the new CNN Electoral Map that charts the candidates’ strength leading up to the November election.

Minnesota – which had turned from toss-up to “leans Obama” in the last analysis – is back up for grabs, along with New Mexico, which had been classified “leans McCain.” The shift of both states gives the Arizona senator a net gain of five votes over his standing in the previous CNN Electoral Map – but his opponent still has 221 electoral votes — 32 more than McCain’s total of 189, and 49 shy of winning the presidency.

CNN made the change in New Mexico after new polling conducted by the Pew Hispanic Center showed that demographic, a major voting bloc in the state, backs Obama’s candidacy by a margin of greater than 2 to 1, 66 percent to 23 percent. Minnesota’s move comes after a new Quinnipac survey finds Obama’s lead in that state has shrunk to a statistically insignificant 2-point margin, 46 percent to 44 percent.

Election: Check out CNN's new electoral map

This is only a CNN estimate, and is likely to change many more times before Election Day.

Filed under: Barack Obama • CNN's Electoral Map • John McCain


John, Brooklyn, New York   July 24th, 2008 4:29 pm ET

Why would CNN change a state's designation with the release of a single poll? For those readers who are truly interested in accurate trend analysis, please visit realclearpolitics.com. Its a much better (and accurate) source of analysis.

Cracka lova   July 24th, 2008 4:27 pm ET

Latinos for Mc Cain.......don't let the fence hit you on thw way out........adios amigo

Brian   July 24th, 2008 4:26 pm ET

Oh and why do people keep bringing up the point that we should vote for Obama because ooh look how everyone hates Bush. Well guess what we don't have to change our values just because we don't like Bush. McCain is no Bush.

henriettap   July 24th, 2008 4:24 pm ET

I would like for someone out there to tell me how having been in the senate thirty years and gives you the experience to be president .It is not hard for anyone to see that this country is in terrible shape because we had a president that was a governor and felt like he was running just the state of Texas over again after he was elected.We are not a country that is looked upon as being a leader anymore.Because of GWB we are hated throughout the world and it is sickening to read just how much people are hating and it can be said many times that this is not about race that one will not vote for Obama because of race but that is still what some in this country care about.Which is a shame is that Obama is just as gualified as McCain.

Brian   July 24th, 2008 4:23 pm ET

Thank God my home state of Colorado is finally coming around. The people of Colorado are quite smart.

TerryDo   July 24th, 2008 4:21 pm ET

Love My USA July 24th, 2008 3:29 pm ET

This is a very disturbing article, why isn't the media talking about this???

By MAUREEN DOWD

OBAMA'S TROUBLING
INTERNET FUND RAISING
Published: June 29, 2008

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

COULD IT BE MARUEEN DOWD, THAT THE MEDIA IS NOT TALKING ABOUT IT, WOULD BE BECAUSE THEY ARE OBAMA'S MINIONS.

PERHAPS, FOX OR ABC NEWS WILL FOLLOW UP ON THIS ALLIGATION.

Jesse   July 24th, 2008 4:21 pm ET

Hispanics will not vote for obama in the #'s he needs sorry I'm one of the one's that won't. Just another talking politician changes his message when it's convenient.

Glenn   July 24th, 2008 4:20 pm ET

I wonder why CNN is not using the newest polls by NBC, CBS and Reuters? We know don't we. CNN...bought by the GOP and McBush!

bmg from CA   July 24th, 2008 4:20 pm ET

It's good to see McCain gaining some ground. People need to realize how dangerously unprepared Obama is to lead this country. We all want change, but Obama IS NOT THE ONE TO BRING IT.

McCain for President!!!

PS: I am not a Republican; originally, I supported Hillary Clinton.
McCain is nothing like the current failure we have had as president for the last eight years.

Anonymous   July 24th, 2008 4:20 pm ET

Don't worry McSurge and crew will steal the election like they did in 2004 with the "recount" in Florida. They have the MSM eating out of the palm of their hands. McSurge and crew are McSad.

Texas Liberal   July 24th, 2008 4:18 pm ET

The biggest problem with democracy as a form of government is that half of the voters have a below average IQ. The less gifted among us is impatient with lengthy discussions of issues.

To them, elections are a contest between two teams, like football. Citizens are like football fans. Their job is to boo or cheer at the right time. Also, like football fans, they hope that the team who beat THEIR team in the final four loses in the Super Bowl – like the voters who are angry with Obama for defeating Clinton for the nomination.

Less gifted voters gravitate toward Conservatism, and the Conservative leadership has developed a special rhetoric filled with smart-mouth quips and demeaning stereotypes (tree hugger, baby killer, liberal loonie, cut-and-run coward, flip-flopper, etc.) that speaks to these people at their level

Pick Me! Pick Me!!   July 24th, 2008 4:15 pm ET

Love My USA July 24th, 2008 3:29 pm ET

This is a very disturbing article, why isn't the media talking about this???

By MAUREEN DOWD
______________

Ammmm... It is because this article has been proven to be false

Krissy   July 24th, 2008 4:14 pm ET

McCain's good luck is that the mainstream media hasn't connected the dots that Phil Gramm wrote his economic policy AND Phil Gramm also is responsible for legislation that has caused increases in energy prices (enron loophole author) and the mortgage crisis (bank deregulation).

The economy is the number one issue, and McCain's policy maker is a huge part of the problems we face today.

Leah DiMarco, Texas   July 24th, 2008 4:14 pm ET

Obama will win by a landslide and will be the next President of the UNTIED States of America! President Obama '09

brian   July 24th, 2008 4:13 pm ET

Why isn't CNN reporting the other gains made by John McCain from the same poll? The results are on every news page except CNN.

Colorado (nine electoral votes): McCain 46%, Obama 44% (in June, Obama 49%, McCain 44%).

Michigan (17 electoral votes): Obama 46%, McCain 42% (in June, Obama 48%, McCain 42%).

Minnesota (10 electoral votes): Obama 46%, McCain 44% (in June, Obama 54%, McCain 37%).

Wisconsin (10 electoral votes): Obama, 50%, McCain 39% (in June, Obama 52%, McCain 39%).

Turn your organization back into a news outlet and not a cheerleading squad for a candiate you have already decided should be president.

Tim   July 24th, 2008 4:13 pm ET

What a bounch of crap. Any little slitter of light for McSame and it's major news. How is this bigger news that MCSame getting the surge time line and importance totally wrong???

Rich, GA   July 24th, 2008 4:12 pm ET

I am an avid McCain supporter, and I just want to say that I'm hoping and praying that Barrack Hussein Obama does NOT become our next president. There is no telling what crap he'd do in office. I know how everyone wants a black president, but come on, voting for him because he's black is just as bad as not voting for him because he's black.

Speaking of race, I do believe it will play a big role in the election. All the undecided voters will realize that white people are naturally smarter and vote for McCain. Vote for McCain because Obama's inane!

Jerry from Oregon   July 24th, 2008 4:12 pm ET

I wish CNN and the rest of the main steam media would stop with the 'net gain of 5 electors for McCain, or Obama' garbage. These are based on polls. which are anything but an exact science. The main stream media is only interested in making this race seem close. I seriously doubt the results of these polls, unless this country is alot more racist than i fear it could be. How on earth could a republican be within 4-5 points of an inspiring Democratic leader? even one of McCain's heroism. We have seen our economy trashed, our Constitution trameled, and our reputation around the world undermined over the last 8 years by a Republican in the oval office.

Barack Obama may be 'inexperienced' as most note, but that is a good thing. He brings fresh ideas and energy that is sorely needed to Washington and this country.

but let's STOP talking about shifts of 5 electors based on polls in July!

that is the height of journalistic irrisponsibility!

Michael   July 24th, 2008 4:11 pm ET

One thing I have learned through 8 years of this current mockery called Bush is that the vote matters not anymore.
And if anyone thinks this right winged freakshow is going to be pushed to the side easily I am afraid you have another thing coming.
To me the real question is how far will they push it this time. I expect the actual vote will be a landslide for Obama but will play out as close and we will have another act of deception.
The clue is this.....McCain has marginal support. Period. He is not even a contender against Obama and his own party can barely tolerate him. Yet, somehow the media plays it as Obama being only 6 points ahead in polls?? Give me a break.
Bottom line...if McCain wins this election that will; be proof of deception once again in November.

Mike   July 24th, 2008 4:10 pm ET

Polls are showing the race is shifting in favor of McBush. Maybe obama should make speeches here than in germany, I dont need a "I will learn on the job" president. Talk isnt going to get my gas price down to $2-3/gallon or get my grocery prices down. Please give me a policy Obama. You are not running to be a public speaker but running for the president of my beloved country! Can we get real policies instead of speeches from obama?

Frank Chase Jr,   July 24th, 2008 4:05 pm ET

CAN ANYBODY HEAR ME. THE ELECTION IS A TOSS UP SIMPLY BECAUSE OBAMA IS AFRICAN-AMERICAN. IF HE WE WHITE, HE'D HAVE THE ELECTION IN THE BAG ALREADY.

AMERICA IS STILL NOT ABLE TO JUDGE ON THE CONTENT OF CHARACTER. WHY IS OBAMAS SKIN COLOR SO IMPORTANT TO YOU?

Daniel So Cal   July 24th, 2008 4:05 pm ET

I believe that most sane Hillary supporters will either vote for Obama or not vote at all. The one's that say they will vote for McCain are either republicans in disguise, not someone who voted for Hillary in the primaries, did not share their toys as a child, or someone who only has four years to live with no kin and doesn't care where the world is headed.
As far a Joe saying he'd be more competent after another term or two in the Senate, well, Bush had two terms as President and he's still a terrible President.

SIMP   July 24th, 2008 4:05 pm ET

Wow Love my USA

Your little he say she say junk is laughable. Get a life. You Hillary and mccain supporters will do anything to try and discredit Obama. Keep your detective work to yourself.

Scott   July 24th, 2008 4:04 pm ET

It is funny to see everyone still blaming Bush and Co. We voted in the Dems. two years ago and look how much "change" has happened. Our previous leaders set up the government so that the President does not have that much power. It is Congress who holds the power and they have made the "change" happen. But you keep blaming Bush and Co. for our record gas prices and we will get change allright, but it might not be for the better. Just take some time to look at the numbers over the last two years and you will see who is to blame.

Sandy   July 24th, 2008 4:02 pm ET

CNN POLLS DON'T MATTER AND OBAMA IS LOOKING MORE AND MORE PRESIDENTIAL THAN EVER.

Jim in Virgnia   July 24th, 2008 4:02 pm ET

I find these poll numbers pretty suspect and I can’t help but wonder if its not yet another move by the news media (who, after all, pays for the polls) to keep interest in the race high. If the electorate decide the race is over and there is no need to stay glued to CNN then they can’t sell advertising beasue nobody will be watching. Here in Virginia the news media-generated polls keep suggesting a close race and yet, it is amazing how many Republicans are supporting Obama. On the street there is certainly no sense that this is as close as the polls indicate – and thats on the streets of southern VA where the Republicans normally rule. I just wonder if the media is manipulating the polls to keep our interest in a race that, in reality, seems very lopsided. It may be my natural cynicism but I won’t be surprised if this ends up being a huge landslide and we are again left wondering, “what happened?!”

Carl Dupont   July 24th, 2008 4:00 pm ET

It was amusing to see more than 250,000 people in Berlin listening to our next President, Obama. America is back with her morale values.
God is Almighty
Obama 08 and 012

Pat   July 24th, 2008 4:00 pm ET

I'm not surprised that the Latino vote leans toward McCain. It has been my experience that there is a great rivelry between blacks and the Spanish speaking community. Sad, but true and this poll shows it.
I certainly hope Obama does not choose Hillary. There are Hillary supporters and Obama supporters and neither side will be satisfied with a union between the two.We cannot have all chiefs and no Indians. I cannot see Hillary or Bill Clinton playing second fiddle to anyone! Obama is his own man and should have a VP who supports him. Bill Richardson or Chuck Hagel would be good choices. They would add to the presidency, not take away!

Claudia   July 24th, 2008 3:58 pm ET

Greg from Big Island: I don't know what line of work you are in, but you are so correct. Thanks for reminding us because it's a true reality check.

PUMA John in PA   July 24th, 2008 3:57 pm ET

I was nonpartisan until this year, when I switched to a D to vote for Hillary in the primaries. I am still embitterred by Obama's arrogance, as well as irritated and disgusted by his smoke and mirrors. I will not bite my nose to spite my face though by voting for McCain.

I am pushing the 18,000,000 Hillary supporters to consider another option if Hillary isn't VP: CYNTHIA McKINNEY 2008! Woot woot!

LatinosforMcCain   July 24th, 2008 3:56 pm ET

I have been saying OBAMA is not for the Latinos, open your eyes obama is not for the latinos, we can smell a rat miles aways!!

Latinos for McCain 08

Jersey Joe   July 24th, 2008 3:55 pm ET

I'm white... but raised my kids to be color blind and I really believed in the vision of Martin Luther King to get us all there. I even did some Civil Rights work in the Boston area many years ago. I was proud to see us get to the point where we were seriously considering a woman, a senior citizen and a person of color for President. But Sen. Obama is simply not the right person to lead the most powerful and influential country on the planet. Maybe after he at least completes a full term in the US Senate –or two or three...

anymous   July 24th, 2008 3:55 pm ET

obama should be leading in florida

mark in az   July 24th, 2008 3:55 pm ET

Mc Same scares me. His recent pronouncements have given me pause to question his mental acumen. I don't want to wake up one morning to a mushroom cloud because the old geezer had a dream where he believed we were being attacked and he goes ahead and starts WWIII. That would suck.

Kimber Grace   July 24th, 2008 3:54 pm ET

I'm voting for McCain DESPITE THE FACT that he is a white male. AND, 'hispanics' know how long and hard John McCain has fought for them. The only former candidate who has done as much is Hillary. CNN-you disgust me. If you could marry Obama, you would. I'm not sure why I still read and watch you.

Elly   July 24th, 2008 3:54 pm ET

Polls are pointless at this time when the campaign between these two doesnt officially start until after the conventions !!Its almost hillarious for MCSame to say that he is concentrating on the issues of the country
where was he a cpple weeks ago ...in foreign countries as well
that have absolutely nothing to do with the election campaigns
It WAS him that ragged on at Obama about going abroad now hes taking him down for it
Last night he said when asked about Obamas trip abroad *It is what it* well I got news for him *What it is* is 100% better than what Americans have right now with Bush and MCSame!!!!!!!!!
Hes an old fool bordering on the beginning of dementia
Obama is a refreshing change and will bring an end to the failed policies of the Bush administration
He will also bring back *respect and admiration* for the US
the choice is simple more of the SAME or the change America so badly needs!!
Obama 08

Andrew   July 24th, 2008 3:54 pm ET

Just wait till everyone can see them side by side in a debate and can compare Obama's intelligence and quickness with McCain's mediocrity and fatigue. Whatever McCain may have been eight years ago, he's no longer that now. He has no potential to govern. He can barely function.

Mama D   July 24th, 2008 3:51 pm ET

Polls mean nothing. Who are they polling anyway? I never been polled. And CNN poll map is a joke just like them. Thats why I watch MSNBC. The only one I can stomach and I like on CNN is Cafferty!! He is the only one who makes sense and talks with sense!! The rest of the crew is bias against Obama, even when Hilary was in the race!!

CNN might as well join forces with FOX NEWS!!

therealist   July 24th, 2008 3:50 pm ET

How can this be? With all the biased news coverage of the progressive messiah Obama, you would think he would be ahead by double digits?

Evidently Amercians aren't as stupid as the corrupt media believes..

Greg from Big Island   July 24th, 2008 3:49 pm ET

Don't pay attention to polls until September to the end of October. I don't see a landslide by Obama or McCain because the country is still polarized. The traditional democratic and republican states will stay that way. However, I see anywhere from 2 to 3 states flipping. States like Ohio, VA, FLA, Michigan, Colorado, New Mexico are the only states that can flip to Democrat or to Republican. I do see McCain flipping Michigan and keeping Ohio. I see Obama flipping VA and Colorado keeping New Mexico. It'll come down to Florida again

Ted van Tol   July 24th, 2008 3:48 pm ET

Just seen the speech of Barack Obama in Berlin.

I love that man!

Tom   July 24th, 2008 3:46 pm ET

"People are starting to take a look at Nobama's resume and whaddya know? Its only one page long, in 16 font, and with 2 inch margins."

Ahahahaha that's great, and so true.

KG   July 24th, 2008 3:45 pm ET

Obama's a weak candidate. Just face it. He's naive, untested, and inexperienced. People can see that despite all the obnoxious pro-
Obama media coverage.

shelly   July 24th, 2008 3:45 pm ET

SSSSHHHHH!!!! I have a seceret!!!!!!!! McCain is really a democrat, like Lieberman is really a republican.............. McCain really does want Senator Obama in the White House as our next President. why else would he be opening his mouth and retelling history and making false statements. "The old man yells at cloud" is just a routine. So dems, sit back relax, enjoy the ride, thanks to McCain our nominee with be President!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!1

Michael, Michigan   July 24th, 2008 3:42 pm ET

There are a few states on here that I don't think should be fully in McCain's column. According to 270towin.com and their polling, states like Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota, Indiana, and North Carolina should be toss-ups as well. And states like Arizona, Texas, Alaska, South Carolina, and Mississippi should be "leaning" McCain. Also, Washington, Minnesota, Iowa, Wisconsin, and New Jersey should all be either "leaning" Obama or "Strong" Obama.

They are giving McCain way too much credit. The only reason they moved Minnesota to "toss-up" and not "Strong" Obama is because they think McCain is going to pick Pawlenty as his VP. But if that happens, I don't think that'll change anything in Minnesota because I looked up the election results for him and he BARELY won there. So he's not even that popular!

Enlightened Voter   July 24th, 2008 3:42 pm ET

Hey 57 States – I'm sorry but but for the majority of us who do work hard but don't make those millions that mccain wants to give tax relief to I will go with Obama who is actually going to give a poor smuck like me a tax break for a CHANGE. You see trickle down economics proved that it doesn't work, well unless your that wealthy 2% of this country which I ain't.

Mark   July 24th, 2008 3:40 pm ET

I don't know why CNN lists California as "Safe" for Obama. Hillary defeated Obama in Calif. and not all her supporters will vote Obama. Los Angeles County and Orange County have many Democrats who are vowing to vote for McCain. Take another poll.

Proud to be American   July 24th, 2008 3:38 pm ET

No! the reason McCain is close to Obama is fear, fear of change and fear of an minority in the white house. I am so confused the world has embraced Obama why can't America do the same. Every African American that travels abroad state that the notice that their embrace by all not pre-judge due to their color.... I know change is coming – it is just hard to embrace. I truly wish Americans vote due to the policy and due to fear or a bias I have faith we are better than that. Mike from Texas I am going to look for more reliable maps... as this new poll sicken me.

CLINTON 08 VP   July 24th, 2008 3:37 pm ET

YEAH THANKS TO OBAMA'S STALLING, HE THINKS HE CAN DO IT ALL BY HIMSELF...

UNITED WE'RE STRONGER

OBAMA (P) & CLINTON (VP) 2008-2014

NO TO "BUSH II", McWAR, "BUSH'S-INTENT-FOR-2ND-PARADE-IN-IRAQ"

Dr. Bob   July 24th, 2008 3:36 pm ET

Obama is starting to fizzle out. I don't even think Clinton could save him now. President McCain will win by a lot : )

James Hussein, SC   July 24th, 2008 3:36 pm ET

Vote for McSurge
Vote for McSurge
Vote for McSurge
Vote for McSurge
Vote for McSurge
Vote for McSurge
Vote for McSurge
Vote for McSurge
Vote for McSurge
Vote for McSurge

Ray   July 24th, 2008 3:35 pm ET

People say Obama is the most suited for the job. How do you figure? He has a couple hundred advisors, he is a blabbering fool when he can't read from a teleprompter or is asked tough questions. At one point he said he had been to 57 states. He doesn't want to do town hall style debates with McCain because he himself and his campaign managers know he is a blabbering fool. You don't see those clips on the liberal, biased media outlet. Me not voting for him has nothing to do with his being bi-racial(he is not black). For those of you who think he is a savior, you are going to be very disappointed when you see what he really is, a Marxist. He wants more government involvement in our lives. Just remember, government is the biggest oppressor of human rights and freedoms. Wait until government health care is shoved down your throat and the system is overburdened leading to rationing. Be careful what you wish for, you might just get it and then some.

Canuck   July 24th, 2008 3:35 pm ET

Considering the incredible amount of harm W and his fellow Republicans have inflicted on not only the United States, but countries around the world, I would be absolutely flabbergasted if a Republican was voted in once again.

Americans have made this mistake twice. I really hope the third time is the charm, and you get it right. Otherwise it is not just your country that will end up suffering. Notice how the American recession has been felt around the world? It will only worsen with W the Sequel in the White House.

ClintonDem4Cynthia08   July 24th, 2008 3:34 pm ET

Forget Obama. Voting for Cynthia makes sense

Florida voter   July 24th, 2008 3:33 pm ET

MCCAIN WILL WIN BY LANDSLIDE!!! HILLARY Would've won.

Michael Templer   July 24th, 2008 3:32 pm ET

I really don't trust CNN where Obama is concerned

they have consistently understated Obama's numbers through out this campaign and have clearly left out facts and answers that he has made to question they blew up without recrimination.

Lou Dobbs show ran lies for days over bitter comment when the candidate apologized with in 24 hrs.

I am skeptical of these Polsters as well

because they are under sampling segments of the population that are
going to vote this time and I mean more than blacks.

that determines these polls

while internet non-patriotic thugs continue to subvert this election

with emails and ads about Obama without any PROOF

this election is Obama's to lose

unless John McCain of 2000 returns.

one more thing on the polls I noticed time after time polls came out in states that Obama was favored always seem to tighten up at the last minute for some reason then he would blow Clinton out.

Wisconsin said +6 actual +17
Mississippi said +5 actual +27
North Carolina +8 actual +14-15

For Obama   July 24th, 2008 3:31 pm ET

Obama will EASILY Be Our Next President. Period.
McAncient = BUSH III
...I am SOOOOO ready for a change!

GO OBAMA, BABY!

Valerie   July 24th, 2008 3:31 pm ET

I agree 100% with Alex from NY

mrkusn   July 24th, 2008 3:31 pm ET

John McCain would be smart to get Charlie Crist of FL on the ticket. That's 27 e-votes for him. Otherwise it is over for McCain.

Brandon Hillary PUMA 4 Mc   July 24th, 2008 3:30 pm ET

Shouldnt obama be ahead of Mc Cain by double digits considering this has been dubbed a "democratic year" lol He cant even unite his own party how will he be a commander in chief. This europe trip is also a fairy tale and its clear that despite all this coverage he is not getting the bounce one would expect.
No we wont........

Hillary 2012

Love My USA   July 24th, 2008 3:29 pm ET

This is a very disturbing article, why isn't the media talking about this???

By MAUREEN DOWD

OBAMA'S TROUBLING
INTERNET FUND RAISING
Published: June 29, 2008

Certainly the most interesting and potentially devastating phone call I have received during this election cycle came this week from one of the Obama's campaign internet geeks. These are the staffers who devised Obama's internet fund raising campaign which raised in the neighborhood of $200 million so far. That is more then twice the total funds raised by any candidate in history – and this was all from the internet campaign.

What I learn ed from this insider was shocking but I guess we shouldn't be surprised that when it comes to fund raising there simply are no rules that can't be broken and no ethics that prevail.

Obama's internet campaign started out innocently enough with basic e-mail networking , lists saved from previous party campaigns and from supporters who visited any of the Obama campaign web sites.
Small contributions came in from these sources and the internet campaign staff were more than pleased by the results.

Then, about two months into the campaign the daily contribution intake multiplied. Where was it coming from? One of the web site security monitors began to notice the bulk of the contributions were clearly coming in from overseas internet service providers and at the rate and frequency of transmission it was clear these donations were 'programmed' by a very sophisticated user.

While the security people were not able to track most of the sources due to firewalls and other blocking devices put on these contributions they were able t o collate the number of contributions that were coming in seemingly from individuals but the funds were from only a few credit card accounts and bank electronic funds transfers.

The internet service providers (ISP) they were able to trace were from Saudi Arabia, Iran, and other Middle Eastern countries. One of the banks used for fund transfers was also located in Saudi Arabia.

Another concentrated group of donations was traced to a Chinese ISP with a similar pattern of limited credit card charges.

It became clear that these donations were very likely coming from sources other than Americ an voter s. This was discussed at length within the campaign and the decision was made that none of these donations violated campaign financing laws.

It was also decided that it was not the responsibility of the campaign to audit these millions of contributions as to the actual source (specific credit card number or bank transfer account numbers) to insure that none of these internet contributors exceeded the legal maximum donation on a cumulative basis of many small donations. They also found the record keeping was not complete enough to do it anyway.

This is a shocking revelation.

We have been concerned about the legality of 'bundling' contributions after the recent exposure of illegal bundlers but now it appears we may have an even greater problem.

I guess we should have been somewhat suspicious when the numbers started to come out. We were told (no proof offered) that the Obama internet contributions were from $10.00 to $25.00 or so.
If the $200,000,000 is right, and the average contribution was $15.00, that would mean over 13 million individuals made contributions? That would also be 13 million contributions would need to be processed. How did all that happen?

I believe the Obama campaign's internet fund raising needs a se rious, in depth investigation and audit. It also appears the whole question of internet fund raising needs investigation by the legislature and perhaps new laws to insure it complies not only with the letter of these laws, but the spirit as well.

Aaron   July 24th, 2008 3:29 pm ET

Why does it take one poll to change a whole network's mind?

Bayou Joe   July 24th, 2008 3:27 pm ET

CNN you have it wrong again. NM is McCain country. So is Texas, Florida and Michigan. After what happened in Fla and Mi. the Democrats have no chance with Obama.

no McCain!   July 24th, 2008 3:25 pm ET

We got a long way to November, CNN

Stop with these polls.

Obama '08

Bob Indianapolis, IN   July 24th, 2008 3:24 pm ET

Curious that you're running the same story twice with a different graphic....

Tejano   July 24th, 2008 3:24 pm ET

How sweet it is. By November the Map will be all Red. The convention in Denver will open the eyes of the American Voter, both Democrats and Republicans that love America will reject Obama.
Hillary is the only one that can carry the Democrats to Victory and they stabbed her in the back to support the African empty suit.

TerryDo   July 24th, 2008 3:22 pm ET

WOW, OBAMA AHEAD OF MCCAIN BY 4 POINTS.

ARE WE ALL NOT JUST TOTALLY IMPRESSED.

WITH A MARGIN OF ERROR +5/-5 THAT IS A PRETTY GOOD START OBAMA.

DON'T FORGET THE JUSTICE SYSTEM IS WAITING FOR YOU WHEN Y OU LAND FOR BREAKING THE LOGAN ACT.

Marcus, Great Lakes IL   July 24th, 2008 3:21 pm ET

And...

To add, when I stated:

I have talked with quite a few people and though they won't say it aloud, they will not be voting according for the person best suited for the job but, for what color his skin is.

Let me clarify, as there seems to be some kind of confusion or, because I am a flip-flopper.

The people I have talked with who state that they won't vote for Obama because he is black, have told me they would never tell a stranger that is the reason.

no Obama   July 24th, 2008 3:17 pm ET

no Obama
no Obama
no Obama
no Obama
no Obama
no Obama
no Obama
no Obama
no Obama
no Obama

Marcus, Great Lakes IL   July 24th, 2008 3:16 pm ET

Marcus – If the majority of U.S. citizens don't vote for Obama, it is not because of the color of his skin. Does it bother you that people are voting FOR Obama because of the color of his skin? Or that people are voting against McCain because of his age? With the exception of a few out there (and there are haters in every category), the majority of Americans either favor him because of his skin color or don't care about his skin color. Obama is not qualified to lead this country…and his race has nothing to do with it.
_____________________________________

Oh, but I beg to differ with you. I will be voting for Obama and it has nothing to do with his skin color. It has everything to do with his vision on how great America can once again become. I am going to vote on the issues and the person who shares most of my ideals is Obama.

As far as McCain goes, I don't care about his age, I care more on his voting records on us Veterans. I also have issues on his despicable personal life. I do not trust a man who would give the enemy information to save his sorry butt, nor do I have any respect for a man to had various affairs on his wife until he found a rich one, in which case it was time for wife number one to be thrown to the curb.

And just what makes you think that McCain is qualified to be President?

Thrasher   July 24th, 2008 3:15 pm ET

So if you don't like the poll results on CNN you just go to another poll that says what you want to hear? Go right ahead and try to fool yourself.

Either way, what does this poll really mean at this point in the race?

aaa   July 24th, 2008 3:15 pm ET

mccains will lose anyways. mccain is a joke to me!!!!!!

I from Canada   July 24th, 2008 3:14 pm ET

Anyone else find it odd that CNN's headline suggests McCain now has an "edge" while still being down by 32 electoral votes and that it called this latest move a "net gain" of 5 electoral votes for McCain. Minnesota and New Mexico were both moved to Toss Ups – meaning both sides lost projected electoral votes! No one gained anything, McCains net loss was just smaller. I understand the media has been blamed for siding with Obama too much, but this is stretching it if they were trying to throw McCain a bone in terms of positive coverage.

Roofin Reality, Houston, Tx.   July 24th, 2008 3:14 pm ET

Jack from 2:13,
I think Senator Obama was in Ohio about three or four weeks ago. He spoke about patriotism or religion, I don't remember.
But he's been there since the primaries ended.

The polls show Obama up by 4-6% on average. And, his support continues to be around 45-48%. McCain hasn't been over 45%.

Most importantly, here's what we all need to know.

Obama keeps Kerry's states and he has 252 electoral votes.
He's up in Iowa (7) and New Mexico (5). With just those two, he's only needing 5 more electoral votes to get to 269 (and then the House will vote him in).
Now, to avoid that historical thorn, he needs to get 6 more votes and thus needs one or, at worst, two of the following states (of which he's very competitive in, if not leading).
Montana (3), Nevada (5), Colorado (9), Missouri (11), Ohio (20), Virginia (13), North Carolina (15), Florida (27).
Or, dare I say it – ARIZONA (10).
That's all we need.

Good luck Senator Obama, and great speech today. It's been great so far, and especially with all of those people waiting to hear from you, to see our allies embrace you so warmly. Too bad a previous trip this year by your opponent wasn't nearly as warmly received by those countries.

p.s. Great pictures with General Patreus, especially the ones in the helicopter.

MinnesotaBluezz   July 24th, 2008 3:13 pm ET

Count this Minnesota Obama supporter as Blue!!!!

Rick FL   July 24th, 2008 3:12 pm ET

Many of these polls do not include third party candidates, which they should. When all candidates for president are included, Obama appears to have a double-digit lead in the recent NBC/WSJ poll.

The latest Rasmussen poll in Florida also has good news showing Obama leading here.

Obama '08
Si se puede!

E   July 24th, 2008 3:10 pm ET

I guess people don't want change in this country. If McCain is elected then we will be in a great depression in a year and by the time the next election comes around it will be too late to change any thing. This is why we eed to make the change now and elect Obama.

Obama '08

GC   July 24th, 2008 3:09 pm ET

I've got to scratch my head on how Obama is ahead in polling for the state of Arizona, when this is the state that McCain represents, yet there are still people around the country voting for McCain. The majority of those people he represents, and has represented, day-in and day-out, in Congress are not voting for him....come on America, open your eyes.

one nation under god!!!!   July 24th, 2008 3:08 pm ET

all polls are liberally biased like the media.Reading what cnn just reported and removing the bias you have to add 10 to 15 percent to McCaine.I know this is all of you college kids first election but your in for a rude awkening on election day.It will be McCaine handily.I know this from past experience with the liberal media and liberal polls.Your spirits will be crushed.The political atmosphere outside college campuses are very heavily McCaine.Real americans care about real life issues like drilling for more oil, victory in Iraq and afganistan,lower taxes for our families and the big bad companies that employ us( and you too if you ever graduate).All of which McCaine has a strong edge (not repoted by the media).Low on the list of average americans big wasteful spending ,socialised medicine ,terroist rights , european sensesibilities,and migrating polar bears.I know the real world is sheltered from you in college due to socialist professors and cirriculum,but when you get in the real world and your not relying on mommy and daddies money then you can talk until then your words will never persuade any of us adults.

Marie Ontario   July 24th, 2008 3:08 pm ET

I don't know what all the controversy is about the fact is dedicated Republicans and Religous extremists will support John McCain and free thinking, sensible Americans will support and vote for Obama.

The demeanor and stature of the two candidates along with their policies and honesty are all sharply contrasted. You don't have to be a genius to figure out which candidate is best for you if you aren't a dedicated Republican.

DEBBY, NJ   July 24th, 2008 3:08 pm ET

OBAMA is going to win this election by a landslide.
CNN I will continue to monitor the polls thru realclearpolitics. CNN is slipping and starting to look like McShame.
BARACK THE VOTE !!!

Shelby   July 24th, 2008 3:07 pm ET

Oh stop it CNN, you know these polls mean nothing and McCain is going to get blown out of the water (if America gets over its racism). This is no "nail-bitter" Obama could easily take all 50 states.

LYNNE KIEPER   July 24th, 2008 3:06 pm ET

For all the complaining about the "excessive coverage" Obama is being given, few pundits bother to mention that it's really not an advantage for him. The close scrutiny of his every move will inevitably invite criticism from many places, while McCain gets away with his one-note platform (Iraq) and all of his shocking gaffes go largely unnoticed. It's disgusting to hear that CBS even went so far as to edit out one of his recent blunders, splicing tape so the answer given to one question was really the answer to a different question. There is such a thing as media bias, but it certainly doesn't lean left. CNN please print this and start reporting honestly on McCain's ineptitude.

simple thought   July 24th, 2008 3:05 pm ET

missouri is not a toss up state, to many of us , who are base democrats will vote for mccain, it will go republican .nuff said

bowling green, mo.

Ed in Harrisburg, PA   July 24th, 2008 3:05 pm ET

To the Hillary supporters who keep threatening to vote for McCain, whatever floats your boat. You voted for a loser in the Democratic primary and you can double that with a loser in the November.

Frosty   July 24th, 2008 3:03 pm ET

CNN I hope you're not discounting the Rasmussen Minn. poll from yesterday showing an Obama 13 point lead. Because right now the Quin poll is an outlier.

Raoul - Lake City, SC   July 24th, 2008 3:02 pm ET

Just wait until the debates. McCain will need help wiping the egg off his face while Obama fries it on Johnny Boyz lips.

Biffington, Biff   July 24th, 2008 3:02 pm ET

Edward, USA... please go back and read my comments.. i could not be MORE for Obama... I was commenting on what a poster named "typical white person" said...

slow down... we are on the same side here.

by the way... you rattled off some good stats...

anonymous   July 24th, 2008 3:00 pm ET

How on earth can you dumb bunnies think CNN is pro McCain. They slam him every chance they get and report everytime NOBAMA farts!

Praetorian, Fort Myers   July 24th, 2008 3:00 pm ET

Regardless of the pretty colored maps.

We have to remember we are at war with a regligous and political ideology who wants to destroy or convert all who do not believe in their prophet (particularly western ideologies)–regardless of their age, sex, or infirmity.

I'd rather have someone frosty, trained, and alert to dangers than someone who is HOPING to make a difference using HYPOTHETICAL reasoning.

Bill   July 24th, 2008 3:00 pm ET

Guess there's no need to even hold the election.

McArsenic   July 24th, 2008 3:00 pm ET

just in...Repubs block Dems effort to lower gas prices. well guess the oil spill that kept John from the rig will look bad for off shore drilling, but this, this looks worse. a woman killed her self because she was loosing her house and found no help...thanks Bush, but don't worry if McCain wins we will see a lot more of this.

katie homes   July 24th, 2008 3:00 pm ET

McCain will win it no matter how hard the media "liberal elite" try to push Obama on us-while I think he is a nice guy , he is WAY too inexperienced and keeps filp-flopping on what we THOUGHT he stood for.....meanwhile McCain remians consistant and strong. In the end, more people wll relate to the funny, smart, down-to-earth (but strong McCain) instead of the snobby,charsmatic "gamble" that is Obama. Katie in Springfield MA

Ford   July 24th, 2008 3:00 pm ET

This map is BS. Visit Real Clear Politics if you want to see a map that is an accurate portrayal. If the election were held today, Obama would win well over 300 electoral votes. This map is just proof that cnn's coverage is a dishonest attempt to make the public think there is a real contest here. McCain is going to be the biggest failure since Bob Dole in this race.

Phil, FL   July 24th, 2008 2:59 pm ET

The more these haters push McCain, the more I work for Obama to get elected. Keep it up. I am younger than McCain and have plenty of energy. I can even do it on week-ends.

E. Scott   July 24th, 2008 2:59 pm ET

The problems most people have with Obama are his radical/racist connections and of course his liberal views.

Richardson for V.P   July 24th, 2008 2:59 pm ET

bush-mccain voters aren't americans they're trash.
please people, come vote for obama in droves so we don't have to experience what we experienced 4 years ago. Don't let these idiotic republican/racist jerks put another waco in office only to see him screw up leading us to say once again that we blew it...

now's the time. so let's get it right

vote obama if you know what's good for you

Bob Indianapolis, IN   July 24th, 2008 2:59 pm ET

These polls are a freaking joke! The bean counters are going to get smoked in November!

Obama 08: mature, white woman   July 24th, 2008 2:59 pm ET

I will put my faith in the RealClearPolitics poll as they give history of polling and averages and they have no monetary stake or desire to keep ratings up by constantly saying things are shifting daily or weekly.

Why not include the polling and money raising in Arizona?

Don't use race for voting   July 24th, 2008 2:57 pm ET

McCain doesn't know the ABC of geography, history,social studies, math, foreign culture, foreign policy. His age matches with his brain with outmoded philosophy.
USA should produce a good and inspiring leader . Obama is the candidate for this 21st century presidency.

Another David from Ohio   July 24th, 2008 2:56 pm ET

Yeah other David from Ohio, I'm so proud of my home state except that it keeps voting for Republicans. I don't understand how the breadbasket and strong right arm of the union in the civil war could have fallen so far.

jeff in SF   July 24th, 2008 2:56 pm ET

CNN's electoral count discounts general trends in favor of the latest twitches in the polls in order to push as many states as possible into the toss-up category (perhaps because a horse race is the only kind of story the media know how to do), but most of the sites doing electoral modeling, and most betting sites, give Obama a substantial lead at this point.

Phil, FL   July 24th, 2008 2:56 pm ET

Go to electoral-vote.com

It updates daily.

CNN cut my posting of this 5 times in 1/2 hour

cnnnnn is crap   July 24th, 2008 2:55 pm ET

in case any of you want a decent news source go to huffingtonpost.com obama is leading in arizona last week according to your absurd pollings so how can it be safely for mccain

Raymond Duke   July 24th, 2008 2:55 pm ET

I don't know who you are trying to kid cnn. Minnesota is about as blue as you get and was never a toss up state for the republicans. If Obama is having a problem with Minnesota than he is in deep crap. As far as New Mexico it will go republican as usual expecially in this election. Whites out there is pretty conservative and the Latino population is not stupid.. They will be voting for John McCain. They probably would have preffered Hillary Clinton as I did but know that the only chance they have for them, Whites and america lies with John McCain.

William   July 24th, 2008 2:54 pm ET

The pools really don't mean much right now. We are not into real election mode yet. Wait until the debates when the age difference between Obama and McCain is more apparent. When you stand them side by side, you have the McCain, the past (old fashioned and outdated) and Obama, the future(intelligence, open mindedness and forward thinking).
I was an independent and wasn't sure but after listening to McCain do nothing but smash Obama for the past six weeks, I am definitely going with Obama.. I can't stand the negativity, it will get us nowhere as a country. McCain is GREEN with envy over the coverage Obama is getting. He is getting the coverage because he deserves it....the Republicans are jealous as anything-listen to them and read what they write!!

Mike - Texas   July 24th, 2008 2:52 pm ET

Minnesota toss up? I don't think so.

CNN is a joke. And so are these polls.

July 22 Rasmussen poll has Obama up by 12.

Janet, Toronto   July 24th, 2008 2:52 pm ET

Polls go up and down. When reality of life hits, especially those undecided and maybe, with some help from the Creator, voters will seek the direction needed to, in not only bring the USA back on the track for future generation, the rest of this Planet.
One can only see forward, while looking the past straight in the eye, and realize the damages that has come this far. Living with lies and deception on all venues, has been the cloak of danger.
Truth in history has never made it in the history books. When written by those with self interest is concern.
Therefore, lets start rewriting history with TRUTHS not LIES!

As an American in Canada – seeing the movement of change in thought and especially in TRUTH – has been a reward one never thought to see in ones life time.

Americans truly have the greatest opportunity since JFK to make the world a better place for all, especially themselves!

JJ   July 24th, 2008 2:52 pm ET

I'm beginning to hate these early polls. I don't understand why this race is so close but hey it's July...

J.D.   July 24th, 2008 2:51 pm ET

Latest Rasmussen poll has Obama up 13 in Minnesota.

Independent-woman-4-Obama   July 24th, 2008 2:51 pm ET

Oh boy! An edge for McCain? Okay, but what about all the people who are not polled, who have just newly registered or whom have yet to make up their minds?

I will TRUST that the REAL POLL will be in November. People need to wake up and see what more of the same will mean to us, in the good ole USA:

MORE DEBT, $10 TRILLION AND COUNTING.... THANKS BUSH/CHENEY/MCCAIN!

MORE WAR...... MCCAIN'S LITTLE SONG: "BOMB.......BOMB.......BOMB IRAN!"

MORE OF OUR PEOPLE UNEMPLOYED

MORE OF OUR PEOPLE FILLING FOR BANKRUPTCY BECAUSE WE CAN NOT AFFORD HEALTHCARE!

MORE OF THE SAME..........

Paula, CA   July 24th, 2008 2:50 pm ET

This election would be as boring as McSame if the media actually reported the truth.... how much fun/interesting would it be if they told us now that Obama is leading by a landslide!! OBAMA '08!

Don't use race for voting   July 24th, 2008 2:50 pm ET

Obama- the next president of USA and will become the best world leader the US ever to produce.

Tommy   July 24th, 2008 2:49 pm ET

This doesn't make sense. I am hearing from republican's I know who are active in party politics here, that there is a national movement by many powerful republican's to get McCain to resign his nomination (due to health reasons) because they think he is going down the tubes at this point. Where is the data coming from? CNN seems to want to keep it close like they did between Obama and Hillary. Wasn't that close then and isn't that close now!

J.D.   July 24th, 2008 2:49 pm ET

Ridiculous. Minnesota is in Obama's column.

Al, NY NY   July 24th, 2008 2:48 pm ET

Dave from Ohio/Tired of W: You need to get the bible thumpers and "values voters" in the Cincinnatti and surrounding areas to wake up and get away from the "grandfathers' old party" The last few elections turned on them somehow making enough inroads to turn the election results to red

You are forgetting   July 24th, 2008 2:48 pm ET

Your polls show people for Obama and people for McCain, but you are not factoring in the 18 million who did not vote for Obama and how they will vote, and a good number of them are Latino and I do NOT believe they will go over in big numbers for Obama.

The 18 million HIllary supporters will get their say in November and it will serve Obama right and the media right for this farce of a campaign.

Michael   July 24th, 2008 2:48 pm ET

What a misleading Title, "Electoral Map: Both lose ground – but McCain gains edge". How does McCain gain edge when the overall picture shows Obama ahead by 30 electoral votes. I understand that some states have shifted into the leaning category and that this might favor McCain slighty (5 votes), this hardly allows for the proclamation, "McCain gains edge" when he is still behind.

Greg   July 24th, 2008 2:47 pm ET

I think everyone should question CNN's analysis considering they provide no real basis except a mention of a poll or two (seriously the Latino polls have been the same for two months, but now you move New Mexico?) I would suggest pollster.com, Real Clear Politics or FiveThirtyEight.com, where they actually show you basis for their categorizations.

Let's Unite   July 24th, 2008 2:45 pm ET

Hope you are right Carl.

And that makes three of us David.

Helen, NY   July 24th, 2008 2:45 pm ET

Those who vote for Obama are idiots. Obama is the most inexperienced presidential candidate in our history. Even Bob Barr has more experience than Obama. CNN and other media want to portray him as oresidential. He knows nothing. We also have no other choice so I will vote for McCain.

Rick   July 24th, 2008 2:45 pm ET

And in another poll Obama leads Bozo but trails Ronald McDonald in the race for America's favorite clown.

CNN @ it's WORST!!!!!   July 24th, 2008 2:44 pm ET

Electoral Map – but his opponent still has 221 electoral votes — 32 more than McCain’s total of 189, and 49 shy of winning the presidency.

Obama’s candidacy by a margin of greater than 2 to 1, 66 percent to 23 percent. Minnesota’s move comes after a new Quinnipac survey finds Obama’s lead in that state has shrunk to a statistically insignificant 2-point margin, 46 percent to 44 percent.

This is only a CNN estimate, and is likely to change many more times before Election Day. PLease ADVISE!!!

Justin Case   July 24th, 2008 2:43 pm ET

The media is so bias it is really hard to believe and by the way, people might say that they support this person but when it comes time to vote and in the privacy of the voting booth, you will find people will not vote for this person. It is really hard to tell who Barack Hussein Obama really is because he is the always changing his mind and is a really strange liar, who talks out of both sides of his mouth at the same time.

There is not way the bias liberal press can change the mind of white people to support this person. Just accept the facts that this is all a pipe dream and will not happen.

Sorry to give all you Obamanites the bad news! You should have supported Hillary Clinton and not Barack Hussein Obama.

vic nashville,Tn   July 24th, 2008 2:43 pm ET

From 06-04-2008 I watch only Lou Dobbs and Reliable sources
Because the way main stream media treat the candidates
This is a good news for Hillary supporters
Hillary 08 or Mc Cain 08

Denise   July 24th, 2008 2:43 pm ET

You mean an inexperienced, smug, condescending do-nothing is falling behind a war hero who has been serving his country since the aforementioned do-nothing was in diapers?

This is a shocker.

Celtic   July 24th, 2008 2:43 pm ET

CNN, you are so obviously "Obama." Every article on your website today has "black" in it somewhere or else it is specifically about Obama.

You all failed journalism 101.

pat C.   July 24th, 2008 2:42 pm ET

McCain will wear himself out so bad before november that no one will vote for him. as bad as he has already gotten and he has not had to face obama yet in a debate i can just imagine how many mistakes he will make then. i can just see him stomping his feet and swinging his arms having one of his tantrums.
did anyone notice this week when he was shopping in a grocery store i think in PA with a young voter and someone asked him if he got the ecomomy and he had to pull his notes out of his pocket to remember what a gallon of milk just cost! i can not see him making it till november!!!

Xavier   July 24th, 2008 2:42 pm ET

McCain is going to get slaughtered come November. I know. You know it. The media knows it. The republicans know it. Even those in denial know it. Obama versus McCain isnt as sexy as Obama versus the Clinton clan, so the media will come up with stuff like this to keep the ratings going. Come November however, the curtain will fall for McCain, and fall hard.

Perusing-through   July 24th, 2008 2:42 pm ET

For the 'umpteenth' time this week, I have watched TV news journalist asked about McCain's VP choice and whether there is an upcoming VP announcement.

QUESTION: How is it the everyday John Doe knew there was never a plan for McCain to make a VP announcement THIS WEEK? Why is news journalists getting paid big bucks to figure out what the everyday Joe already know?

This was a simple McCain head-fake to distract Obama's overseas Heads-of-State tour and deflect some of media back to his self. Simple plan the everyday Joe knew, but surprisingly the only people fooled were the news journalist. Duuhhhhh!!

GOD Bless America!
GOD Bless Obama!

Open Your 3rd Eye   July 24th, 2008 2:42 pm ET

Can we chill with the polls at least until early Sept.

Thanks

sherry   July 24th, 2008 2:40 pm ET

STRANGE ISNT IT HOW THE STATES THAT ARE RED LOOK LIKE AN H

H ......AS IN HELL , WE WILL BE LIVING IN IF MCCAIN BECOMES PRESIDENT

McCain=the draft   July 24th, 2008 2:39 pm ET

CNN, you and other networks, want this to be a horse race so people will be more interested and tune in. Stuff your polls.

sylvie   July 24th, 2008 2:39 pm ET

CNN, why did you ignore the Rasmusson poll that came out on the same day as the Quinnipac poll that shows Obama up 13% in Minnesota???? Doesn't fit into your narrative???

John   July 24th, 2008 2:38 pm ET

Wake-up Folks McCain is the best person for the job. Obama and all his rich friends can write as many big speech's for Obama and the Media can Brain wash everyone. News Flash Obama 's a fake! Last year Obama was a nobody and was going every Sunday to a Chruch were him and his family listen to haters and dam this Country to Hell. Obama rich friends can't buy your soul if you don't let them. Don't let Obame Trick you out of your Vote!

Nando, Florida   July 24th, 2008 2:38 pm ET

Please I did a poll on my toilet yesterday and it said OBAMA by a LANDSLIDE . AMERICA IS NOT STUPID THEY KNOW MCCAIN IS A VILLAGE IDIOT WHO BOWS DOWN TO BUSHED!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

bill for barack   July 24th, 2008 2:38 pm ET

I appreciate the fact that you always note in these articles that you are only working with estimates that are likely to change,
Still, isn't it fascinating to live in a country where we have the opportunity to speculate ?

Watermann   July 24th, 2008 2:37 pm ET

Don`t believe in polls or statistics unless you have made them yourself.

Susan   July 24th, 2008 2:37 pm ET

Can we end these stupid polls for a while? Why doesn't CNN do some real reporting on the lies told by McCain, rather than polls, and making McLame sound like he is god's gift to us, and how he will save us! Cnn now = McCain!

57 States   July 24th, 2008 2:36 pm ET

wouldnt vote for Obama because I dont want 55% of my income going to the government….. If any of you liberals would like to argue with me feel free. i have busted my but for 30 years to get to this point and Obama wants to take all of that from me.

If by some chance he gets elected I am going to ensure my salary is lowered to 249,999. It is sad that in America you are rewarded for failure and punished for hard work

PS I am doing better today then 8 years ago....actually doubled my salary. Hard work truly does pay off

Dave g, Minneapolis   July 24th, 2008 2:35 pm ET

The CNN Moderator probably does not like Bob Barr. Many of my posts are not posted. Especially when I provide reference links to fact based articles.

and rumpusgoopus, it's a "toss up" because many Minnesotans are really upset at the high taxes we pay...towards the highest in the country.
Unless of course you are the beneficiary of these entitlements...

Barr '08!

Strained Logic   July 24th, 2008 2:34 pm ET

Let me get this straight! I guy raised by a single parent makes his way to Harvard law school where he presides over the Harvard law review board and goes on to be a constitutional law professor at Harvard. This same guy leaves Harvard to become a Community organizer on the south side of Chicago; one of the most tough communities in America. He later wins a seat in the Chicago legislature where he sits for five years before winning a bid to the United States senate. He pens two books, runs for president as a virtual unknown, reinvents campaign finance, and dismantles the campaign one of Americas most recognized and beloved politicians. Then to make matters worse this same guy tours the world to worldwide adoration and respect. I think I agree with the bloggers; he has no experience, as a matter of fact anyone of us blogging, opinionated, internet darlings could wake up tomorrow armed with a great speech and do all this man has done? Don’t be silly, sometimes the proof is in the pudding. Although, when dealing with backward logic that says hey I loved Hillary; therefore I will trash all that her and the DEMS stand for to vote for McCain. Consequently, if Barack Obama does not add Hillary to his ticket as Vice President I will never vote for him, because “this is not a popularity contest, it is about the issues!”

Ugh! Are some of you really this dense?

JIM...TX   July 24th, 2008 2:33 pm ET

To those who say Obama has no experience to be President...did you vote for Bush...whose "experience" was as Texas governor? That qualified him by what standard? Oh...of course he did have his family name to fall back on. Being a Senator for any amount of time certainly trumps that.

Vickie, Maryland   July 24th, 2008 2:33 pm ET

The news wants to keep it looking as if the race is "close". Afterall they're getting the highest ratings ever, cause so many are tuning everyday to find out what's going on. If everyone already knew that one candidate was a clear winner over another they know people would be less interested.....people weren't interested in watching the Miami Dolphins play the Patriots, they knew it was over before it began. But The Patriots and the Colts, now just the idea makes you want to tune in cause you know it's going to be a real battle.
They're creating this "dead heat" that doesn't exist.

57 States   July 24th, 2008 2:33 pm ET

I wouldnt vote for Obama because I dont want 55% of my income going to the government….. If any of you liberals would like to argue with me feel free. i have busted my but for 30 years to get to this point and Obama wants to take all of that from me.

If by some chance he gets elected I am going to ensure my salary is lowered to 249,999. It is sad that in America you are rewarded for failure and punished for hard work.

"McCain The Vote" 08

Frank   July 24th, 2008 2:32 pm ET

It's depressing to have to admit this, but looking at this map tells you all you need to know about race in America.

The deep south and the rural Midwest, where racism is still tacitly accepted as within the social and political norm, are the only areas of undisputed strength for John McCain.

Understanding this is essential to interpreting the hateful tone of the McCain campaign. Of the Republican's original core values – greed, fear, and hatred – only the hatred remains reliable.

Jamaal kansas   July 24th, 2008 2:32 pm ET

these polls are stupid how can you contack 1,000 people sometimes 500 people and try to guesstimate what is going to happed i have never been polled and these Pollsters don't call cell phone which is more than half of Obama base because most people in the Black community only has a cell phone or don't have one at all that goes for younger voters as well Obama will win this year in a landslide

McNo   July 24th, 2008 2:31 pm ET

OH WHATEVER I see a landslide and a bunch of confused media pundits when Obama wins this thing.

JohnW in NC   July 24th, 2008 2:30 pm ET

This analysis does not grant the Democrats the states won by Gore and Kerry, both of which were narrowly defeated. These 250+ Democratic Electoral Votes are a reasonable starting point for evaluating the 2008 election.

Even if McCain were to steal one or two "Blue" states, Obama is just as likely to steal a couple of "Red" states. The 250 EV Democratic starting point remains about the same.

That leaves about 10 "toss-up" states: VA, FL, OH, MO, NV, NM, IA, IN, CO & NH. McCain needs to win 75% of these states (EV). Given that Obama is leading in about 75% of them, success for McCain is not likely.

I predict that the "split" of these states will be close to 50/50 and Obama will win the election 310-230. Obama will enjoy AT LEAST an 80 EV victory; Obama will go over the top by 40 EV and McCain will fall short by by the same amount.

Leah DiMarco, Texas   July 24th, 2008 2:30 pm ET

The CNN map is way off. Everyone should check the chart of the nine sources at DemConWatchBlog.com on the Presidential Forecast link. Why is it that CNN only updates every two weeks or so and then when they do they don't show the current state of the race!

go away mongers- Ventura ca   July 24th, 2008 2:29 pm ET

I think this electoral map thing is a bit EARLY. It isn't even Labor Day yet. I believe that Barack Obama will have a stunning mandate on November 4th. The more mccain insults his patriotism and questions his motive, the better he (Obama) looks!
YES, WE CAN.

Scott L   July 24th, 2008 2:28 pm ET

Obama stands no chance. Murderers and their accomplices for Obama!

Terry, Butte, Mt   July 24th, 2008 2:28 pm ET

Both Quinnipac and Rasmussen have polls out on 7/22 for Minnesota giving Obama +2 and +13 respectively. Real clear politics average for Minnesota which calculates from many polls gives Obama +5.3. Pollster.com which also calculates averages from many different polls shows Obama with an average of +13 points. So how is Minnesota a toss up?

The last poll I can find for New Mexico is Zogby, updated on 7/8/08 which gives Obama a +16 point lead. Pollster.com has Obama with a +11 point average. Both should be "leaning Obama" at worst.

By the same token, Iowa, Michigan, and Colorado all have sizeable leads for Obama.

To be fair, Nevada, Florida and Missouri all lean McCain.

Ian   July 24th, 2008 2:28 pm ET

My grandmother-in-law says she just doesn't trust Obama. You just can't argue with logic like that. It's rock solid.

Erika, KS   July 24th, 2008 2:27 pm ET

Good! This is only the beginning. Wait until November! Every single day Obama proves how ill prepared he is to lead. Seriously, it's one mis-step after another with him. It's hilarious if you sit down and pay attention. Not that the Obamanites will ever fess up and admit their god isn't perfect. Ha! Serves him right, using his children, running around the world preaching like he's already president, being in charge of committees that, lo and behold, he really doesn't chair! He and his wife are haters of this country (read her thesis), etc., etc., etc. It goes on and on and on.

Minnesotan   July 24th, 2008 2:27 pm ET

Yeah, I'm surprised MN is a toss-up... You'd think after paying some of the highest taxes in the country because of democrats, we would be voting for ANYONE else!!

Michael "C" Lorton, Virginia   July 24th, 2008 2:27 pm ET

Voters historically vote their emotions, rather than their consciousness.......and until November, their emotions will sway just like barley blowing in the wind......the poll trolls are to anxious and it is an insignificant indicator.

gobo   July 24th, 2008 2:27 pm ET

The title of the post does not reflect the content. Obama has the edge becuase he still has more electoral vote (221 to 189, as indicated).
Fair reporting does not mean making stories up to make the presidential race is close.

Dilly Everett   July 24th, 2008 2:27 pm ET

Real Politics.com averages many more polls, including Qunnipiac, and Obama is sill up. CNN your polls should be more inclusive. I find most of the time they are only one to three poll averages. Do you only print what looks like a story?

Nation of Whiners   July 24th, 2008 2:26 pm ET

No freaking way. I don't care what Quinnipac says, Minnesota is way blue for Obama. I'd bet my house on it.

This nation and the WORLD is ready for an end to the old way of doing things. McCain is a good man, but a bad choice for president.

Obama / Biden 08!

Doug, New Jersey   July 24th, 2008 2:25 pm ET

The states with good honest people who are decent, respectful, and have common courtesy will not go to the Democrat.

Now, places like New York, New Jersey, California ETC, which are filled with mean spirited narcisist liberals, hell even Osama would win them with a little D next to his name. I have lived in both, yup, there sure are two Americas.

Phil, FL   July 24th, 2008 2:25 pm ET

CNN trying to stir the pot and keep their ratings up.

They poll the same republicans over and over and over.

The most biased network this week – CNN – loves to bash Obama.

Show all of McWarmonger's gaffes. CNN is biased.

Roger (Dallas)   July 24th, 2008 2:25 pm ET

Why do we have to be continually subjected to polls? We the people have enough sense to listen to the candidates and make up our own minds without countless talking heads trying to push us one way or the other. It would be so nice on election night to watch it unfold with anticipation rather than aggrevation!

Ian MacIsaac   July 24th, 2008 2:25 pm ET

That Minnesota poll was pure noise. And I love how they still have Arizona as solid McCain even though they're pretty close there. Go ahead, make it the illusion of a horse race. That's fine. Obama's going to smoke McCain, we all know this.

Biffington, Biff   July 24th, 2008 2:25 pm ET

Thank you for your honesty, Marus of Great Lakes, IL.

I am originally from Chicago, and this is sometihng I have already known. it is nice to see it out in the open.

I saw it with Mayor Harold Washington's election back in 1982.

your words were dead on with my experience.

ANGIE   July 24th, 2008 2:24 pm ET

polls mean nothing right now wait until sep oct then they have value

erik   July 24th, 2008 2:24 pm ET

Marcus, Great Lakes IL–
do you think that there is any chance that people are going to vote for the wrong guy because the color of his skin is darker than the other guy's? what i mean by that is, do the dems really know who they are voting for? how many people are trying to prove they are not racist because the voted for a black man. that is the wrong reason to vote for a person.
i do agree, though, that you should vote based on merit not on color, then more peole would vote the RIGHT way.

Worst...Resume...Ever....   July 24th, 2008 2:23 pm ET

People are starting to take a look at Nobama's resume and whaddya know? Its only one page long, in 16 font, and with 2 inch margins.

Hispanic over 50 female   July 24th, 2008 2:23 pm ET

He needs Hillary to close the deal. Unfortunately, I thinks he too pompous and arrogant to admit it.

Sandy   July 24th, 2008 2:22 pm ET

It is only a matter of time. The shift will be slow but sure. Obama can't be our next president. The stakes are too high to put him in office.

A rookie as the leader of the free world? How stupid can we be? Oh, yeah–we put GW in the White House–TWICE. I guess we CAN be pretty stupid.

Mike - Texas   July 24th, 2008 2:22 pm ET

BLAHBLAHBLAH

CNN electorial map is a joke.

Go look up more reliable maps, they are out there.

mark4wagon   July 24th, 2008 2:20 pm ET

I wonder how the other candidates are doing in the polls? We would know but we never seem to get info on them. Interesting isn't it....
You cannot keep the revolution down anymor with your lack of equality in media coverage. We will succeed in making this a better country for everyone with our without the media's help......

sincerely yours

The Independents

What!!!   July 24th, 2008 2:20 pm ET

Polls mean nothing. Why are we so trusting of them?

Linda. Boston, MA   July 24th, 2008 2:20 pm ET

Half of those toss ups are states in which Obama has a considerable lead. You guys are trying too hard to make this a horse race when its not.

Patrick   July 24th, 2008 2:20 pm ET

Race has nothing to do with this election, McCain has better policies plain and simple. if McCain was black, hispanic, or a woman but still had his same positions on the issues I'd still vote for him.

Irishspacemonk   July 24th, 2008 2:20 pm ET

If anyone reads CNN in a few months I'd be surprised. In fact I'm making this my last view of this site. There is nothing informative or particularly engaging in their content. It's biased, corporate and overall it stinks. Who cares what CNN thinks? They employ right-wing Repugnants and then expect us the believe their crap.

Carl from MI   July 24th, 2008 2:19 pm ET

By November, it will be a landslide for Obama.

TOM   July 24th, 2008 2:18 pm ET

i still wonder who guys are polling. and poeple say one thing and do the another. i would think you guys would give these polls up with there current accuracy. i have to group you guy with the weathermen the days.

aware   July 24th, 2008 2:16 pm ET

Go McCain! :)

The Obama drama is a nauseating spectacle of arrogance, egomania and political expediency. Obama thinks with a two-faced stutter but reads someone else's words with charisma. He is a joke!

Maybe he will choose Richarson as VP and double his negatives!

But, Hispanics won't be manipulated! :)

Allen in Hartwell, Ga.   July 24th, 2008 2:15 pm ET

Like many others across this nation, I know many people who either won't vote this election or who will vote (out of spite) for McCain. Why? Because of skin color. My state of Georgia will probably ignore the best candidate simply because they are biased. It's truely a shame.

LIZ   July 24th, 2008 2:15 pm ET

You know, Obama is over seas. Speaking to world leaders and their people about unity as a whole. About coming together to make a better world. And when i went on to this website....all i see is seperation...no unity....nothing but seperating the races.
We have Obama and both presidential candidates trying and repeatedly speaking about coming together to make a difference and all Americans want to do is focus on who has it harder.........

Alittle strange and funny how we all act........it's shameful.

hillbilly   July 24th, 2008 2:14 pm ET

mccain is speaking ,now,on cnn...i love my mute button!

Linda31   July 24th, 2008 2:14 pm ET

So even though Obama is beating McCain in current states, Arizona for example, it is still in the McCain column? Okkkkkay

rumpusgoopus   July 24th, 2008 2:14 pm ET

I cannot fathom how the Minnesota poll came out the way it did. It really has to be an outlier.

Matt--NE   July 24th, 2008 2:14 pm ET

I guess there is still some common sense alive out there.

Good to see people are still searching for substance beyond the hype.

McCain will handily win this one.

McCain '08

hillbilly   July 24th, 2008 2:13 pm ET

no comment on polls.

Debby   July 24th, 2008 2:13 pm ET

So New Mexico with alot of Hispanics shifted back to McCain. So I guess turncoat Richardson won't be able to carry the state for Obama in the long run. What about the big hispanic and latino shift over to Obama in the polls?????

Pink Elephant   July 24th, 2008 2:13 pm ET

Marcus – If the majority of U.S. citizens don't vote for Obama, it is not because of the color of his skin. Does it bother you that people are voting FOR Obama because of the color of his skin? Or that people are voting against McCain because of his age? With the exception of a few out there (and there are haters in every category), the majority of Americans either favor him because of his skin color or don't care about his skin color. Obama is not qualified to lead this country...and his race has nothing to do with it.

xddy4u   July 24th, 2008 2:13 pm ET

CNN take this poll and shove it. Enough already.

Jack Savedge   July 24th, 2008 2:13 pm ET

I'm glad to see that CNN still has Ohio has a battleground state. It would be nice to hear something from the candidates. Perhaps the residents of Ohio need to go overseas to get Senator Obama's attention. He is traveling through Europe on his "presidential" tour as though he is our leader. He needs to be telling me what he is going to do for the thousands of us in Ohio who have lost our manufacturing jobs this past month. As a Democrat, I am becoming concerned that John McCain is the only one talking and I am starting to listen more and more to what he has to say. Why isn't Senator Obama offering an economic plan to help those of us that are now without jobs here? I could care less how much the people of Berlin like him. They want him; they can have him and I'll go back to supporting Hillary. I voted for her in the first place since she at least came to Ohio and gave us answers to our financial problems. She listened to us talk about the loss of our jobs and our homes. Obama doesn't seem to care about the common man here at home. Maybe it is because he can't identify with the common man.

Elrod   July 24th, 2008 2:13 pm ET

Unless McCain picks Tim Pawlenty, Obama will win Minnesota easily. This poll is noise. In fact, a Rasmussen poll the same day has Obama up 12 there.

Colorado is also odd. Rasmussen has Obama up 7. Q-Poll has McCain up 2.

But here's why. Obama leads Independents by 7 and gets the same ratio from Dems as McCain gets from Republicans. The party ID sample had Republicans at 8 points more than Democrats. That's implausible. The margin was dead even in 2006 and polls earlier this year showed it starting to go to a Democratic advantage. McCain has had virtually no operation in Colorado while Obama has registered tons of voters. A proper party ID in CO right now would have Dems up by about 4. Readjust and you have Obama leading Colorado by about 5 – same as last month.

fella from Chicago   July 24th, 2008 2:12 pm ET

I'm a McCain supporter, but the latest Minnesota polling means nothing. The talk of a possible VP coming from that State caused this shift. If this doesn't happen, Minnesota will go back firmly in the Democratic column. The only "up for grabs" State I see Senator McCain probably taking is Florida. Unfortunately for the country it will be Obama in 2008 and after sanity is restored and reality sets in Senator Clinton (I like her style) or a GOP conservative will prevail in 2012.

Earl   July 24th, 2008 2:12 pm ET

NEWS ALERT

CNN polls are not considered anything but LOVE for McWar...don't pay

any attention

Mauri   July 24th, 2008 2:12 pm ET

Obama's speech to the Germans will likely put McCain over the top.

Brian   July 24th, 2008 2:11 pm ET

CNN... your electoral projections are a joke. What is the point of this, to make the race seem closer than it really is?

Everyone go to electoral-vote.com for an accurate breakdown!

Seriously.

Texas trail puppy!   July 24th, 2008 2:11 pm ET

No matter how the media wants to spin this race as close. Obama will win by a Landslide in November.
I would also wait for the polls after his Foreign Trip.

ProundToBeDemocrat   July 24th, 2008 2:10 pm ET

I live in Minnesota and it makes me angry see Minnesota as a toss up state it should be strong Democrat, last time I check MN was a blue state it seems like a lot of republicans are moving to my state.

Kathy in Michigan   July 24th, 2008 2:10 pm ET

Compare this map to REALCLEARPOLITICS.COM's map. Their take is a little different. They have Obama with a huge advantage.

Kamran   July 24th, 2008 2:10 pm ET

The media trying to make it look close, sorry, but that isn't going to happen. the MSM twists into making the elections look closer then they actually are is pathetic.

Iron MAN   July 24th, 2008 2:09 pm ET

"After the unpopularity of George W. Bush, the world is waiting to love America again, and many see in Obama, with his youth and his optimism, somebody who can bring that about."

Marvin Higgins   July 24th, 2008 2:08 pm ET

If Hillary Clinton was the nominee she would be ahead by 20 points. Obama is only even because he is black most white people will not vote for a black man for president. racism is a live and well.

Marcus, Great Lakes IL   July 24th, 2008 2:08 pm ET

I am sorry to say that this presidential race, in the end is going to be decided by the race of the candidate not the age.

I have talked with quite a few people and though they won't say it aloud, they will not be voting according for the person best suited for the job but, for what color his skin is.

They don't care if the other candidate is a dumb as a box of rocks, they would rather have America fall to her knees then to vote for a black man.

I thought America has risen above the good-ole boy mentally but, I guess not.

(CNN – Please Print this Comment)

prefer O koolaid than your McArsenic   July 24th, 2008 2:08 pm ET

AMERICA really think if you are doing better today than you were 8 years ago, by all means VOTE MCCAIN...but if you are in the majority of Americans who are struggling to make ends meet VOTE FOR CHANGE.
John McCain has 59 lobbyist working for his campaign....who do you think he is in bad with?

karen-phoenix   July 24th, 2008 2:08 pm ET

Obama is ahead in Arizona by 3 points!!! We in AZ no how old and bad McCain is!!! Peace is Patriotic!! Go Obama!!!

Tired of W, OH   July 24th, 2008 2:08 pm ET

I'll second that, "David from Ohio".

Tired of W, OH   July 24th, 2008 2:07 pm ET

realclearpolitics has a much more detailed electoral map that takes all of the major polls into consideration. They show a 238 to 163 advantage for Obama.

JIM...TX   July 24th, 2008 2:07 pm ET

Is this like your "polls of polls CNN? A waste of time?

Marcus, Great Lakes IL   July 24th, 2008 2:07 pm ET

I am sorry to say that this presidential race, in the end is going to be decided by the race of the candidate not the age.

I have talked with quite a few people and though they won't say it aloud, they will not be voting according for the person best suited for the job but, for what color his skin is.

They don't care if the other canidate is a dumb as a box of rocks, they would rather have America fall to her knees then to vote for a black man.

I thought America has risen above the good-ole boy mentally but, I guess not.

(CNN – Please Print this Comment)

Alex NYC   July 24th, 2008 2:07 pm ET

If Minnesota goes anything but democrat I'll cut up, salt, and eat my hat.

Robert   July 24th, 2008 2:07 pm ET

I'll be curious to see if Obama gets a bump from his tour sinking in over the next week or two.

Chris from NY   July 24th, 2008 2:05 pm ET

Obama may think the media is doing him a world of favor. But they haven't. They let his rivalry get away with every wrong he's ever done and hammer him (Obama) for the frenzy they (the media) created. The media is speaking from both sides of it's mouth. They know how to make and break people. He just needs to be careful. Otherwise he he's been doing well so far. He got the game and on top of it too. I sure hope every American can look beyond the media glamor and see the man himself.

Ken Pittsburgh   July 24th, 2008 2:02 pm ET

It is a long way to nov

David from Ohio   July 24th, 2008 2:00 pm ET

It truly sickens me that my state is a toss-up given how the Republicans have wrecked it over the last 20 years.

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