July 24, 2008
Posted: 10:02 AM ET

From

(CNN) — Barack Obama holds a 4-point lead over John McCain in the latest CNN poll of polls.

The new average of the three most recent national surveys of registered voters shows the Illinois senator at 47 percent with McCain standing at 43 percent. About 10 percent say they are undecided.

The margin between the two presidential candidates has narrowed slightly over the past week: in a CNN poll of polls taken July 16, Obama and McCain were separated by 6 points.

Election Center: Check out the poll of polls trend

The latest poll of polls includes recent surveys from Gallup, NBC/Wall Street Journal, and ABC/Washington Post.

Filed under: Barack Obama • John McCain • Poll of polls


Jon in WA   July 24th, 2008 2:36 pm ET

Texan you said Obama is going down as people are starting to see he is naive?

In reality, any drop is likely due to people being caught up in McCains blatant lies. I mean, seriously, blaming a Senator for being the cause of high fuel prices? Get real.

Mike - Texas   July 24th, 2008 2:32 pm ET

I find this interesting that Obama is only up by 4 in a year when everything has gone so bad for the Republicans.

Think about it, Iraq war, bad economy, high fuel prices, and Obama is only up by 4.

Obama should be up by 20 to 30 points in the polls.

I wonder why he isn't?

Maybe a LOT of people don't TRUST him. Or mabye a lot of people see through all of his retoric.

Lim   July 24th, 2008 2:22 pm ET

US presidential elections are decided by independents
who are generally to the right of center. That is why Obama
has been doing a series of flip-flops from his far-left positions
during the primary, while McCain's shifts have largely been
imperceptible from his middle right positions.

Coupling this with Obama's sorely lacking resume, the race
will definitely tighten up toward November as the independents
start to pay close attention. Once they do, it is doubtful whether
the show-biz nature of the Obama campaign and his oratory
skills will be enough.

Allan   July 24th, 2008 2:17 pm ET

To: YES WE CAN comment. YOU need psychiatric doctor for sure, not country.

Bella   July 24th, 2008 2:16 pm ET

I say let Obama play the Idol game while Mccain continue to be the stateman that he is and focus on issues. I find Obama's drop in the poll after this all our photo op with the media swooning similiar to that time when he made the speech that was touted by the media as magical, yet, his poll numbers dived afterward. What is this telling us? Well, easy….what this tells us is that there are two realities……the one that exists only in the minds of the media obama loving people and the real realities of voters who watches the fantazised version played out on TV. Radical, isn't it? Voters are actually smart enough to separate facts from fictions. I love it!

Kent D   July 24th, 2008 2:15 pm ET

Are the old polling methods really that reflective of today . . . Cell phones only and youth. Neither of those demographics are represented in these polls.

Reminds me a bit of the Dewey/Truman election where polling didn't represent the electorate. I'd say Obama is up by at least 10 points.

All this talk about the press favoring Obama is just another load of "swift boating." Trying to create a story out of nothing.

Obama is new and offers a way forward.

McCain – well we just lived through seven and half years of what he promotes. What's new to report?

Mike in PA   July 24th, 2008 2:15 pm ET

I guess the "attack" ads, however hollow, are working? To heck with running an honorable campaign, uh John?

GARY   July 24th, 2008 2:14 pm ET

it boils down to patriotism since we can not trust michelle and barack on this issue john mccain patriotism is unquestioned every one inmy family are democrats 15 of them but everyone has said they would vote for mccain over this issue they also said they would all vote vote for hilliary if she was running against mccain

Iron MAN   July 24th, 2008 2:13 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."

nuff said

MB   July 24th, 2008 2:12 pm ET

Does anyone take into account that out of the 8 major polling institutions 7 of them are hard left liberal, Zogby, Rasmussen, Reuters etc with only Fox as the lone standout for the Conservative side. Now when these hard left pollsters, poll where do you think they are polling? Here's a thought (not in any conservative, right red states). No they are in fact polling in Oregon, California, NY and places where they can get the numbers "they're" looking for. If I was a Nobama supporter and only up by 4 this would make me very nervous. Ever wonder why you look at an electoral map and the country is 85% red? Look at it, California and NY are the only two states keeping Democrats afloat. THATS YOUR HARD FACT OF THE DAY.

Loretta from California   July 24th, 2008 2:11 pm ET

SO….now will someone PLEASE tell me why he doesn't have a commanding lead over Senator McCain?

@yes we can—You're right. Our Country does need Psychiatric help.

DEMOCRATS UNITE!!!!

Gary   July 24th, 2008 2:11 pm ET

Enough already with these polls. It is July 24!!

Ken   July 24th, 2008 2:10 pm ET

Go up and read Jeff 12:23 for a picture of delusion. In his rant, substitute Bush's name for Obama's. Then note how the idiots on the [R]ight have relied on describing the FACT of their own utter failure when they go to making up fairytales about Obama.

Roofin Reality, Houston, Tx.   July 24th, 2008 2:10 pm ET

That's great.
And, with Kerry's states, when he adds Iowa (7) and New Mexico (5), Senator Obama will need just 5 more electoral votes to get to a tie at 269. 6 more votes to get to 270. So, where do we look for them?
Nevada, Colorado, Missouri, Ohio, Virginia, North Carolina and Florida.
To a lesser extent, Montana (but only 3 votes there) and North Dakota.
And dare I say it (according to a Zogvy poll, Obama is close) ARIZONA.

So, while these numbers are great, what we're looking for really are two states. Any two will do.

Jon, Pittsburgh, PA   July 24th, 2008 2:06 pm ET

Most things will continue "as-is" with either candidate winning. The founders set this government up to only be able to change very slowly. Keeps things on an even keel that way.

Vote McCain 2008

Texas Trail Dog!   July 24th, 2008 2:04 pm ET

HA, HA, HA, BAMBI YOU BETTER READ BETWEEN THE LINES IMMORAL LIAR. BECAUSE WITHOUT HILLARY YOU'RE GOING DOWN, DOWN, DOWN. YOU GOT PROBLEMS BUD BECAUSE A WHOLE LOT OF US AIN'T GONNA VOTE FOR YOU, HILLARY OR NO HILLARY. YOU OBAMA SUPPORTERS GO TO YELLING RACIST NOW. BECAUSE YOU PEOPLE DON'T UNDERSTAND THAT SOME PEOPLE LOOK INTO THE SOULS OF CANDIDATE BEFORE THEY MAKE UP THEIR MINDS TO VOTE FOR THEM. I WILL NOT VOTE FOR A LIAR, A GANGSTER WHO MAKES $860,000 OFF OF LAND DEALS WITH A KNOWN FELON REZKO, WHO HAS RAN ON A LIE OF NEVER BEING FOR THE IRAQ WAR WHEN HE COULDN'T EVEN VOTE IN THE MATTER. SO GOOD BYE OBAMA.

Task   July 24th, 2008 2:04 pm ET

Maybe McCain's numbers are improving because he actually talks TO the American people instead of talking down to them. Obama is too arrogant to have a town hall meeting because he might have to answer real questions from honest Americans. It's "Invitation only" events for Obama.

Please don't forget that Obama also agreed to disnfranchise millions of voters in Florida and Michigan. Thank god he can't refuse to count those votes in the general election. Those are two states where only people who don't value their right to vote would support Obama.

Mike, Syracuse, NY   July 24th, 2008 2:03 pm ET

Roger, you forgot one: (4) Obama isn't qualifeid to be dog catcher, let alone President.; and the more America sees of him, the more america IS seeing the light. Face it, the DNC picked the weakest candidate in the Democratic field and now they are blowing what should have been walk in the park.

Typical White Person   July 24th, 2008 2:01 pm ET

Okay, so now that Obama's poll numbers aren't that great the polls are meaningless…but just a few weeks ago you bots could not stop crowing about how far ahead he was.

You bots are so funny – how hypocritical you are!

jenkins   July 24th, 2008 2:00 pm ET

Glenn Beck is soooo right! If I have to hear Candy Crowley say, one more time, that Obama looks "presidential" I'm going to puke!

Jake   July 24th, 2008 2:00 pm ET

Looks like the news channels need to up their efforts in promoting Obama. They need to devote a few more hours daily to this man. Maybe Hardball should change their name to Chris + Obama = BFF? I think Olberman has already chaged his to The Obama Hour. Maybe the commercials are getting in the way of their message, perhaps any shows dedicated to Obama could be run commercial free? They obviously are not doing enough to shove this guy down every single American's throat. Get with it media – you're slacking!

Larry   July 24th, 2008 1:59 pm ET

If you want to know why this thing remains close, in spite of all the indicators that suggest he should have a comfortable double digit lead, you need look no further than to the conscious and soul of America. This election is indeed a battle for the hearts and soul of America. As a 62 year old black man, i've come to realize that white Americans as a whole are good decent intelligent people , but like my race, there are enough of the other kind of peolple, ignorant, uneducated, mean-spirited. I think it is this group, that are responsible for this thing remaining as close as it is.

Obama to our rescue 08/12   July 24th, 2008 1:55 pm ET

Michelle / You hollar debate how could an intelligent person debate that old fart that all he does is lie ,repeat his lies,can't remember what he just said and coppycat s every idea Obama speaks of then trys to make people think it was his original idea .
Does McWar think people are that stupid ?
That shows us McWars smarts which dont exist …………………………….

Lesley   July 24th, 2008 1:53 pm ET

To all of you who intend to write in Clinton's name on the ballot in November if she's not selected VP, consider this. If McCain does get elected, she will be toast. If Obama gets elected, she will surely have a prominent role in the cabinet bringing her talents and expertise to work on the many problems we face. If you truly favor McCain, then vote that way. But if not, don't give him an opening by wasting your vote.

David from Ohio   July 24th, 2008 1:51 pm ET

It's truly astounding given the choice that the race is even this close. Unbelievable.

ANOTHER REPUBLICAN FOR OBAMA   July 24th, 2008 1:51 pm ET

You have got to be kidding. Who are you all polling?

Laidetea   July 24th, 2008 1:50 pm ET

Obama is loved by all he visits. The World has shown much enthusiam since Obama visit. He is a Matriarch of all times.

McCain 286 - Obama 252   July 24th, 2008 1:50 pm ET

The Bradley effect is considered to be about 8-10% in this election, so in real terms McCain is leading. More good news: McCain does far better in the electoral college than in a straight poll. I may need to adjust my tagline upwards!

Ace   July 24th, 2008 1:50 pm ET

Things arent looking to well for "McBush"

Obama 08

Tom   July 24th, 2008 1:47 pm ET

"I have a McCain sign in my window at home. Others in my area like McCain as well, but are afraid to show it because according to many news souces if you don't vote for Obama you are a racist or just flat out dumb."

I had a Hillary sticker on my car and I heard SEVERAL people call me racist, and my Hillary Sign in front of my house was stolen or thrown in the trash 5 times… Because of that I'm voting for McCain and there is NO WAY I can put up a McCain sign, I might get shot.

Vote McCain From Oregon!

Kerouac   July 24th, 2008 1:47 pm ET

The first Bush presided over a poor economy.The second Bush installment made things worse. And I don't care what the spin doctors say, this all started after January 2000. People have died in a war that should have been opposed, then directed toward afganistan, where the real problems are. People are losing their homes at a rate not seen since the great depression of the 1930's, and still there are people in the news media trying to shove another Republican down everyones throat. Please! Give me a break..

Ken   July 24th, 2008 1:47 pm ET

A different Ken above says: "I heard he made the blind, see and the deaf, hear." I'm waiting for Obama to make the stupid, smart. But there's only so much you can do with anybody who would consider voting for a [R] in this election.

Biffington, Biff   July 24th, 2008 1:45 pm ET

honestly,
after the last 7 1/2 years…

i can't understand why there is a single republican left in this country.

as history has repeatedly proven

there are only two kinds of republicans;

millionaires….. and suckers.

But go ahead guys…. vote against your own best intersts… again.. (it has worked out so well for you so far, right?

Ryan Murphy   July 24th, 2008 1:44 pm ET

When people site Glen Beck and Lou Dobbs I honestly crack up. These are two morons that got on TV just by saying things that contradict rational thought. They argue for the sake of arguing, and half the time I do not think they believe in what they are saying. The best word to describe these clowns is Pessimistic…they only see happiness in saying that…every single thing everyone is doing is failed, faulty, or flat out stupid.

Newsflash- No one likes you. Go back to your cynical ways and stop making America depressed. We want the truth, but there is more hope our there than you give credit for. America's youth is not as incompetant as many would believe. Come election time you will hear our voices, and once you see real change in America over the next 4-8 years, you will learn to respect our optomism.

karen   July 24th, 2008 1:41 pm ET

So would he support the death penalty for someone that beat to death and adult member of his family with a hammer?

Arden   July 24th, 2008 1:39 pm ET

Sen. Obama's trip abroad has already made the United States look stronger and given our people something to hope for. When he comes home all he has to do is focus on the economy, go back to the heartland and make the voters understand that he does have a plan to put them back to work, that there will be health care and come up with an idea to help the gas crunch. With this in mind Sen. Obama will be our next President.

no McCain!   July 24th, 2008 1:38 pm ET

I'm sick of these polls, let's wait until the election.

Obama '08

EDW   July 24th, 2008 1:35 pm ET

Jason L,
Our interest in Isreal is this; if you are a enemy to God's chosen people you are an enemy to God. I'd rather not risk it myself, so I'm cool with being an allie to Isreal.

J.S.   July 24th, 2008 1:34 pm ET

Of course, he's ahead in yur unbiased poll. Maybe, Substance will take over Glitz soon and Obama will fall

YES WE CAN   July 24th, 2008 1:33 pm ET

How on earth someone could choose McCain over Obama is simply terrifying. Our country needs psychiatric help.

jane molloy   July 24th, 2008 1:32 pm ET

To all of you cynics out there, don't you think it's time to feel at least a little hopeful about your future?. Let's face it, It can't get any worse! When the country has a chance to change direction, and in this country we are able to, we should embrace it, not talk of Kool-Aid. Sen Mc Cain is a fine man, but Sen Obama represents an open mind, and the ability to embrace others knowledge and experience in their areas. This is the thinking of John Adams, and all the other notable Presidents. This is a golden opportunity to show the world that we are not as short sighted as we seem… For those of you who actually leave this country, and actually talk to foreign citizens, you will know what this means. The rest of you, give up the tours and the cruises, you might actually learn something. The US is not only what we think it is because WE say so. AND VOTE!!!!!

Progressive   July 24th, 2008 1:32 pm ET

All I can say is that I'm bamboozled at the ignorance of this nation. I'm speechless that there is even a competition between McSame and Obama. What a failure in the senses of the American people.

A recovering Republican   July 24th, 2008 1:32 pm ET

Gosh, the polls vary slightly each week. What a surprise. Listen up boys and girls: This election will go down to the wire, and it will decided only on election day. the polls, as well as the actual vote will be close as have been the votes for the last several elections. The polls become news only when an unexpected and significant trend develops and is maintained. This is more non news that is no news.

10 years sober.

Didine - Maryland   July 24th, 2008 1:31 pm ET

These number are not accurate. I believe in Barack and I am convince that Mcwar will not be that close on next week poll when Barack will be back in the US. Americans do not want another third term of George Bush, so Barack is the candidate that represent change and hope. If Barack Obama is not elected President, then Americans are just more racists than their pretend.

Annette   July 24th, 2008 1:30 pm ET

This is the first black American to get this far. Some say why hasn't Obama lead become greater. I say why is it a surprise. Whether we want to say it or not, race is a factor in this election. That's the reality.

Mama D   July 24th, 2008 1:28 pm ET

You can't count on poll numbers. Because who are they polling? I have never been polled!! They must be polling one set of people, or by age, or even by color!! I never buy into the polls because you have to many voter groups to do that!!

Claudia   July 24th, 2008 1:28 pm ET

Our Government is making fools out of us. Looking over the past events such as talking to Iran, lowering oil prices, horizon withdrawal from Iraq, mortgage bailouts, Bear & Sterns bailout, drilling for oil, stimulous checks and so many things. It took 7 years plus to create most of this mess and now that we're upon an election our Government is willing to fix this mess in 5 to 5 months. Something is very wrong with this picture. Think about it.

Was a Democrat-Now an Independent   July 24th, 2008 1:26 pm ET

It just goes to show that the American people realize that Barack Obama is not the President of the USA, contrary to what the media would have us believe. We would like to actually vote before acknowledging whether or not a person is president. The more the media tries to shove this guy down our throats, the more we dislike it. It is the job of the media to reflect both sides of any story. Too bad too few are doing their jobs.

Lisa   July 24th, 2008 1:25 pm ET

These polls only poll people with home phones. They don't account for the millions in the cell phone age who don't use home phones anymore.

Like me.

I predict Obama is up by 15 going into Nov.

Mark Ramsey MD Milwaukee WI   July 24th, 2008 1:24 pm ET

Mr. Obama,
Choosing Hillary Clinton as your V.P. would put you ahead by at least 15 points. She won 1/2 of the democratic primary votes. The choice for V.P. is obvious.

Hillary got screwed   July 24th, 2008 1:22 pm ET

I expect the 10% undecided will lean towards McCain. I also think McCain will benefit from some buyers remorse as people take a closer look at Obama as we get closer to election day and people see that he really is an empty suit and quite scary with his leftist views.

57 States   July 24th, 2008 1:21 pm ET

I wouldnt put a mCain sticker on my car because the left wing nut jobs would scratch it. I wouldnt put a sign in my yard because the left wing nut jobs would destruct it.

Liberals still have never learned conservatives tend not to direspect you guys we just dont agree with you. Have you read the awful comments by some of the Obama supporters.

Lastly Kim Hussein Taylor (Nice name are you a man?) try driving through neighborhoods where people make over 250K a year you will not see an Obama sighn because those are the people who will be paying the bill for people like yourself looking for hand outs

Clinton/McCain   July 24th, 2008 1:20 pm ET

Carl from MI,

I also smell a landslide. McCain whipping Obama's butt! Obama should be way ahead in all polls, but he's not. McCain has a 10 point lead in Ohio according to a new poll. Plus many Hillary supporters, inluding I, will not vote for the barack star.

Rocky Michigan   July 24th, 2008 1:19 pm ET

As long as BHO continues to oppose drilling for our own oil and prices stay high McCain will slowly overtake him. This is the real issue #1

Ron   July 24th, 2008 1:19 pm ET

With all the things that are going right for Senator Obama and everything that is going wrong for Senator McCain, one has to wonder how the polls are so close. Are the America people just stupid or…wait, they elected George W. Bush twice so I guess that answers my question.

Go ahead America, give the world another term of President Bush and then wonder why everyone looks down on you. You need a new spokesperson and by the sizes of the crowds in Berlin today, I think we know who it should be.

Joe in NJ   July 24th, 2008 1:18 pm ET

Don't forget that just about half of the people that voted in the Democratic primaries DID NOT vote for Obama. And no, I didn't vote for Hillary. I'm an independent and I'm extremely frustrated about my choices come November.

Clinton/McCain   July 24th, 2008 1:17 pm ET

CNN PLEASE STOP THE BIAS! I'M GETTING SICK AND TIRED OF HEARING ALL OF THESE FLUFF STORIES ON OBAMA. GET OVER HIM ALREADY!

Peter (CA)   July 24th, 2008 1:16 pm ET

Bea—If voters don't see McCain as the continuation of a Bush presidency, then they have not been paying attention.

And I wouldn't get too excited about Rasmussen. There predictions have always swung more to McCain.

Obama/Hillary 08   July 24th, 2008 1:15 pm ET

Obama experience will get US ahead again in the world.
He is the man for the job; the best one. you get experience by doing a job with this say neither McCain or Obama have been president before so none of them have that experience. This nonsense that Obama has no experience need to stop because Mccain has none as well. United States of America for Barack Obama.

Justin, Ohio   July 24th, 2008 1:14 pm ET

As the saying goes, "What goes up, must come down." It may happen before the election, and if it doesn't then I'm sure it will shortly after everyone sees Obama's definition of "change"

Erick FL   July 24th, 2008 1:13 pm ET

I'm one independent (who use to be a Democrat) waiting to see who his VP choice will be. How can Barack who talks about bringing people together ignore 30million people's choice for Hilary. It would be a slap in the face if he doesn't pick her.
…I'm waiting & I'm not the only one. If he doesn't pick her, his poll #s will only get worst.
PUMA all the way unless she's VP. (period)

Phil in KC   July 24th, 2008 1:13 pm ET

With everything that's wrong in the country and most of it attributable to the current administration, I am surprised so many people would vote to continue down that path. Are people really that racist? Or are they that stubborn? Or are they that stupid?

THE O   July 24th, 2008 1:13 pm ET

Stupid loves company, thats why bush got elected twice and now Stupid may have a resurgance this time around again. How has the republican plans been working for the American people. Not well but Stupid is raising it's ugly head once again……

BARACK THE VOTE!!!!!!!!

BARACK / SEBELIUS 08

Montana is Obama Country   July 24th, 2008 1:13 pm ET

Although it appears most of Berlin is heading to Obama's speech today, US Foreign Service personnel will be banned from the event. And they are not happy.

Typical current administration corrption

foosayer   July 24th, 2008 1:12 pm ET

Obama is far the more competent campaigner. It is this clear competence that we look forward to having in the White House come 2009. McSame is the only empty suit on the podium these days. Even when adding a Gramm to the suit, it is still empty, but dirtier. McSame and his entire 'kitchen cabinet' couldn't fill Obama's suit.

Take back America from the bandits. Return it to the people.

Obama '08

Denise Groves   July 24th, 2008 1:11 pm ET

wait until next week after he finishes his foreign tour. I say 8 to 9 points

Tommy   July 24th, 2008 1:11 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 43% 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!

LatinosforMcCain   July 24th, 2008 1:11 pm ET

smell a Mc Rally baby..soon Mac will be up by 5% then double digits..first we will take OH, then MI, then FL then PA then NH and on and on…woooh!!! I don't know where are those polls coming from about Latinos going to OBAMA and he only 4 point ahead. Those all FALSE Polls about the Hispanic going to obama. OBAMA is going down, the latinos can smell a RATON (RAT).

Hispanic for McCain

Ken   July 24th, 2008 1:09 pm ET

I heard he made the blind, see and the deaf, hear.

Brian   July 24th, 2008 1:09 pm ET

I don't know why the excitement over Obama losing points… if McArtifact takes office things will continue as is. Big oil and greedy peons with moral blinders on will squeal like piggies on the way to the troft. The world will be dissapointed in it's superpower and the depressed mood of the last 3-4 years will soon settle back in as everyone realizes that virtually nothing will be different. Besides that fact the president is not as mentally challenged as the last.

Independent-woman-4-Obama   July 24th, 2008 1:07 pm ET

Polls have been wrong before and will be again. I am offended by the people who just are plain mean. Is that your argument for your candidate to demean and attack Sen. Obama?

HOW ABOUT EXPLAINING HOW A REPUBLICAN CONGRESS (SINCE THE DEMS HAVE ONLY BEEN IN FOR 2 YEARS) AND A REPUBLICAN PRESIDENT RAN UP THE NATIONAL DEBT TO ………………..$10 TRILLION!

OWED TO THE SAUDIS, DUBAI AND CHINA. HOW ABOUT CONSERVATIVES CAN YOU EXPLAIN AND EXCUSE AWAY THE BUSH/CHENEY/MCCAIN LEGACY?????????????????????????

Dave, Illinois   July 24th, 2008 1:06 pm ET

Hey, "Frank from Canada": Mind your own business, Aye.

Your screwed up country might be socialistic enough to elect Obama. Not this country. The grownups will turn out and elect John in November.

Barrack Obama   July 24th, 2008 1:06 pm ET

Hey Obama supporters, what's up with all of the excuses?

When Obama was ahead by 10, you didn't think the Polls were wrong.

Obama is going down, people are starting to see how naive and inexperienced he really is.

That is true I am Barrack Obama and come Aug-Oct to Nov the polls will go to John McCain because I am a Fake, A Rat. I flip flop on everything just to get a vote from you.

doob   July 24th, 2008 1:03 pm ET

What are you people smoking? 4 points? The rest of the world and we in Canada would have predicted a huge landslide for the democrats. We are hoping that all of you will come out of your coma before November!
Enough is enough already. Can't you see what's happening overseas?

57 States   July 24th, 2008 1:00 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

Tony Z- MD   July 24th, 2008 1:00 pm ET

The feeling is Obama is clearly ahead and McCain is trying to make ground. Point blank- McCain is behind the power curve on almost every issue.

Lets really look at the candidates.

Obama is not a military man, but is starting to show leadership as Commander in Chief.

McCain a former POW. What leadership position did he have in the Navy? Was he making decisions during war?

Lets talk about the Surge- If we are to believe the reason things are safer is because of our military than we should stay in Iraq for 100 years. The truth is there are several factors that helped the current day Iraq situation- period. The surge is just one and until unbiased analysis is done than it is open for debate.

McCain is credited with Foreign Policy experience, but look at the reception of Foreign leaders to Obama. Remember the President is the Leader of the Free World. This is a trip McCain wanted him to take, but it backfired on McCain.

When we talk flip-flop- there is no Straight Talk Express just the Merry-Go-Round. McCain no longer holds the same position on off-shore drilling, tax cuts, and the list goes on. Why? He is trying to get elected.

By November, Obama will win by a landslide. The World is watching and hoping America makes the right decision. Four more years of Bush type policies and the future generations will never recover.

Kathryn Irby - Metairie, LA   July 24th, 2008 12:59 pm ET

Polls aren't everything! Obama will still become President! McBush hasn't enough "fire in his belly"!

Texun   July 24th, 2008 12:58 pm ET

I guess I'll follow your example by buying a blood pressure monitor and take my reading at least hourly. This obsession with up-to-the-minute polling is merely political hypochrondria. It doesn't tell us much that is really useful.

Xavier, Saint Louis, MO   July 24th, 2008 12:56 pm ET

The polls change like the wind.

Obamanation '08

YES WE CAN!

Unify On Issues   July 24th, 2008 12:56 pm ET

Agree with you Don, the mix of polls that make up this average is changing each week. If you look at individual polls, you will get a different story.

Check out zogby.com's interactive map – just updated. Florida is now a purple state. With the new latino poll that CNN is reporting in the ticker – It wouldn't surprise me if Texas doesn't get updated as well.

LET IT GO   July 24th, 2008 12:55 pm ET

I can't understand why Obama is only up by 4 points. Now I'm starting to think that people don't want to vote for him because of his race. What ashame. People thank with your minds don't make the same mistake twice.

Bert   July 24th, 2008 12:55 pm ET

This shows that the silent majority is going to vote in the right guy ans it is not a freshman senator.

Sweetie   July 24th, 2008 12:55 pm ET

If Obama was a viable Candidate he would be ahead by more points then the margin for error!

What a Joke!

I haven't talked to a single person who plans on voting for the Left Wing Nut Job in Training Pants!

McCain 08

Clark   July 24th, 2008 12:55 pm ET

If you think he's the Messiah, vote against him. I think he's a man, and a decent one who has my vote in November.

Obama 08

Robert   July 24th, 2008 12:55 pm ET

McCain keeps up his negative campaining because he can get away with it while Obama is overseas. However, Obama will be coming back shortly and so will the Poll Numbers…only he won't end up ahead by 6 points, it will most likely be by 60 points.
Look Out McCain…theres a landslide coming to bury you in November!!

Mary, IN   July 24th, 2008 12:53 pm ET

McCain looks at reporters with such contempt when they ask him a question he doesnt know, or doesn't want to answer. No wonder no one wants to follow him. Who wants a president with an attitude like that? Yuck.

Jameson from Kennesaw   July 24th, 2008 12:53 pm ET

Just keep watching, the closer we get to the election the experience factor will come heavily into play. McCain has been to Iraq and Afghanistan multiple times through the past 20-30 years. Yet this is Obamas first diplomatic trip. We'll see soon enough if Obama has what it takes.

Dem   July 24th, 2008 12:51 pm ET

Can't wait for the debates!

These polls don't include college students or people with only cell phones

Maybe McCain's fearmongering is working?

Or Bush's stance changes to follow Obama's suggestions are changing the views of voters toward Rep?

Michelle   July 24th, 2008 12:48 pm ET

Isn't it clear what Obama's strategy is?

To just LOOK GOOD and avoid town hall debates and citizens' questions–just wait it out and only do the required debating.

Poseur!

Joe from Chicago   July 24th, 2008 12:48 pm ET

Also the reason why there are not as many McCain signes is because 75% of the media is making Obama the savior of the USA.

I have a McCain sign in my window at home. Others in my area like McCain as well, but are afraid to show it because according to many news souces if you don't vote for Obama you are a racist or just flat out dumb.

Obama is the MTV canidate. He can do no wrong and he gets the rock star treatment by the media.

McAwesome   July 24th, 2008 12:48 pm ET

OMG, McCain is doing quite well on the liberal poll of polls. 4 points is not a huge leade by Obama. it may well go down after this trip though as he is now proving to be out of touch with average americans, just wants to be loved by the world.

Gary Chandler in Canada   July 24th, 2008 12:45 pm ET

Can somebody do a poll of how many of those 43% use the internet, know what Google and UTube are. My guess would be 12% of the 43%.
The 47% that support Obama would be 87%.
You CANT spend an hour Googling McCain, or Utubing him, and come back in support.
Start Google with McCain and almost any other word. King, hero, taxes, rhinestone, flip, flop, <<< any one of these key words

Bea, Hoboken, NJ   July 24th, 2008 12:44 pm ET

So, the Obama Summer Tour did not produce a big bump as expected?

How I miss Hillary!!!!

Read this article from Rasmussen Reports dated July 15:

McCain fares better against Obama than he does against two other prominent Democrats. New York Senator Hillary Clinton leads McCain by eight points, 50% to 42%. Former Vice President Al Gore, the Democratic presidential nominee in 2000, leads McCain 50% to 43%.

These numbers help explain why Election 2008 is competitive even though events so heavily favor the Democrats — because the Republicans are on course to nominate their strongest possible general election candidate but the Democrats are not. Perhaps even more importantly, the data suggests that voters don’t see a potential McCain Administration as the third term of President Bush.

http://www.rasmussenreports.com/public_content/politics/election_20082/2008_presidential_election/obama_leads_bush_by_twenty_but_clinton_does_better_against_mccain

Michelle   July 24th, 2008 12:43 pm ET

More proof that Obama is a weak candidate.

ANY Democrat should be trouncing the Repubs.

Obama has the media campaigning for him, does an overseas photo op at our expense, controls the message, blocks out press questions, outspends on promotion, and STILL cannot pull ahead.

Hillary would have a commanding margin at this point.

Joe from Chicago   July 24th, 2008 12:43 pm ET

Many of my friends are voting for Obama. They speak of wanting change and “hoping” he will bring about it. They even admit he has not done anything in Chicago or Illinois. There other rational is they say he can be no worse than Bush.

I feel that hoping that a fresh faced and experienced candidate that has never brought change to anything NOT even in Illinois where he did nothing and has done next to nothing as a US Senator is too much of a change or should I say risk for me.

Anyone who is voting for Obama is grasping at straws and is in a panic mode. He is all Hype and no substance.

lisa M   July 24th, 2008 12:42 pm ET

OK let ante up here. I'm seeing a lot of Ron Paul signs here in Indiana and I am sure that in blue states we're getting Nader or whoever in those states. How about they start asking not if you are voting McCain or Obama, but who are you voting for?

Give the 3rd parties a little legitimacy once in a while.

Obama going down   July 24th, 2008 12:42 pm ET

This is hilarious. The Messiah of the world only ahead by 4 points!

The New York time's profits is down over %80 last month. The harder they try to make this guy win, the more people dislike him. Americans are not that stupid to see through the media bias.

We don't want to vote for a guy pushing communism in America.

eric   July 24th, 2008 12:40 pm ET

McCain is lucky that the media is covering Obama so much. Had his mistakes (when the surge actually began, the Pakistan/Iraqi border, Czechslovakia, the Viagra face, joking about killing Iranians with cigarettes, his far more numerous flip-flops on major policy…I could go on and on) been plastered all over the media like Obama's are, McCain would be at least 20 points down. McCain can be the whiney girl he obviously is over the lack of coverage he's been getting, but he should count his blessings that the world has been largely left unaware to how much of a senile, bumbling idiot he is.

ANGIE   July 24th, 2008 12:40 pm ET

The polls mean nothing until after the debates and you all know debates come after the conventions polls are useless right now!!!!!!!!!

Roger   July 24th, 2008 12:38 pm ET

It is troubling and sad how easily the Republicans are able to manipulate the popular perception of the media as "liberal", when the truth is that the media are SO terrified of this label that they have consistently bent over backwards to minimize the blemishes of the Right.

Obama is the "new" story…. there is more public fascination that comes from a hot, new story. Hence, the greater quantity of coverage. But that simply IS NOT the same thing as bias. Obama has received more than his share of unflattering coverage and commentary. McCain has gotten extremely kind coverage, considering all the outrageous distortions and gaffes he has propogated.

From the narrowing polls, I can only conclude that (1) my fellow Americans are, on average, pretty dumb–buying in to the absolute falsehood that approving offshore and ANWR drilling now will have ANY effect now or even in the long term on gas pump prices; (2) my fellow Americans are more racist than they are willing to admit; and (3) the Right has mastered the art of manipulating the general public.

This may seem harsh, but what other explanation is there for the constant drumbeat of commentators harping about Obama's "lack of substance," even though one can find detailed proposals on his campaign website and other sources (an age-old canard, by the way: literally NO politician has EVER stood up at a campaign event to deliver detailed policy proposals)? And how else can one explain the lukewarm American response to his international trip, when it was all the Right could do in goading him that he hadn't been to Iraq often enough? I only pray that the people see the light soon, and vote for Obama in November.

Trey in Virginia   July 24th, 2008 12:38 pm ET

Let's be honest with these polls. Most other polls have Obama up nationally 6-7 percent easily and that is only out of all the people that can be surveyed.

Not cell phone users land line users.

So co-incidence? If CNN reports that Obama is breaking away probably up by 10 percent at least who would watch the politics news?

Go to realclearpolitics.com and you'll see they report every single poll that comes out. Whether it be Dems Repub or news outlets. Then you will get a better understanding of how this election is turning out

ProundToBeDemocrat   July 24th, 2008 12:37 pm ET

After Obama comes back from his tour and you add Bar and Nader to the poll Obama will holds a 20-point lead over John McCain.

Desmond Sequeira   July 24th, 2008 12:37 pm ET

US CITIZENS WITH INTELLIGENCE AND INTEGRITY, who have the wellbeing of the USA and the world at heart, WILL CERTAINLY VOTE OBAMA.

My worst fear? Some nasty people will do something nasty to try and sabotage his election.

Calling on Independents, TX   July 24th, 2008 12:37 pm ET

Hello Independents:
I am calling each and everyone of you to do the right thing in this election, because I am also an Independent. I can understand why a republican would vote for McCain. I am having a very tough time understanding someone who is a true Independent will have any questions after having seen and heard both candidates. The difference is so obvious that you don't need to spend more than 5 minutes listening to McCain that he should not get your vote. I would have still votted for Obama even if the the candidates had switched their Parties. Come on lets do it!
OBAMA 08 to bring this country back on track!

Deli   July 24th, 2008 12:35 pm ET

nbc polls put 6 points for obama. And now the latino vote is lopsided.

true that most younger ones won't have landlines

John Smith 1   July 24th, 2008 12:35 pm ET

The US people are interesting, but not insane enough to elect Barack Hussein Obama. When it comes down to it, complete landslide victory for John. It will be looked on in the future as "what were the dems thinking" Gore, Kerry and now this. Way to be in touch with America. Maybe Gorby, Mandella or Al Frankin can be next on your list.

CNN..Stop moderating comments you don't like. That will come back to bite you when an issue is publicized. Your job is to have no opinion and report the news.

J   July 24th, 2008 12:34 pm ET

I'd be curious to know what the sample size was. Also, aren't the pollsters who conducted this poll the same individuals who ran polls stating the Hillary Clinton was going to win the Democratic nomination? If so, why should any pay attention to these polls?

Willam from Texas   July 24th, 2008 12:34 pm ET

Obama needs Hillary as VP. Watch his points go way up once he picks her.

If he doesn't pick her, I will write her name in as my choice for prez.

David, Silver Spring, MD   July 24th, 2008 12:33 pm ET

Well the country is doing so well that it's no wonder that folks want to continue GW Bush's policies under a McCain administration.

Alison   July 24th, 2008 12:32 pm ET

Its all about the electoral votes. Check out the state polls….amazing stuff going on in battleground states. Nothing is safe for McCain. Ok well maybe places like Iowa and Virginia. Oh….wait….never mind. He's losing them too.

OBAMA 08!!!

Michael "C" Lorton, Virginia   July 24th, 2008 12:32 pm ET

Don't count those chickens hatching before you get closer to election. It is much to early to significantly predict a lead trend.

Chris   July 24th, 2008 12:32 pm ET

We are going to see history in the making this November when we elect the first African American President of the US. Not only will it be a demonstration of America shaking off it's unfortunate history of racism, it will mark the resurgence of critical and intellectual thinking, America is tired of cowboy "gut" thinking and blue collar myth worship.

A new Enlightenment is upon us.

candi California   July 24th, 2008 12:32 pm ET

It is good that Obama is up in the polls. However one must ask what the pol;ls would show if the media would do its job. McCain claims that the press is unfair and they all fall over themselves to prove him wrong. Why is it the media allows him to get away with the mistakes and lies about Iraq adn about Obama. He should be called on these things but so long as the media and significantly CNN lets him get away with errors he will continue to hold up in spite of his deficits. For goodness sake do your job and stop being entertainment.

S. Boatman   July 24th, 2008 12:32 pm ET

Obama Is Still Ahead And Will Stay Ahead Of Mccain! Mccain Gives His Speech In Front Of An Oil Spill While Obama Gives His Speech In Front Of Thousands!

Peter (CA)   July 24th, 2008 12:32 pm ET

Maybe the problem is that the Republicans have done such a great job of polarizing this country. Look at the electoral map. There are very few differences from 2000 and 2004.

The South will probably not vote Democratic (although Obama may break through) and the West coast and the Northeast will not vote Republican.

There will not be a sea change because McCain is more of the same and Obama is inexperienced.

Those of you who are waiting for Obama to falter….wait for the VP choices and the conventions. Then, if McCain is actually willing to debate, Obama will take the long term lead.

Thomas   July 24th, 2008 12:31 pm ET

There is only one poll that means anything and that is the poll on 4 November and we all get a chance to participate.

We are still almost 3.5 months away from the election. Way too early to get so excited about a poll.

Obama-Junkie, IL   July 24th, 2008 12:31 pm ET

As a song lyric from a hip-hop group from the 1980s/90s goes, "D-Don't ……….D-Don't……………….D-Don't………………Don't believe the hype!"

The media is trying to make this presidential race seem closer than what it is. The high ratings and circulations that the media enjoyed during the Obama and Clinton primary battles were just to irresistable to ignore (and try to repeat) in the general election between Obama and McCain.

Once you add in Nader and Barr, Obama's lead over McCain is like 16pts! Once Obama comes back to the US and gets back to talking about domestic issues (i.e. the economy, health care costs and the like) in another 2 weeks Obama will be up by 20 pts, but the mainstream media will not let you know this!

karen-phoenix   July 24th, 2008 12:31 pm ET

Republican for Obama!! Would like to know who they are polling? Do they poll cell phones? Do they poll the young people in college? Obama will win by a landslide!!! Peace is Patriotic!!! Yes We Can!!

Debby   July 24th, 2008 12:31 pm ET

Hmm I guess his oversea's trip isn't getting rave reviews so far. McCain is closing the gap a bit.

Jiggles   July 24th, 2008 12:31 pm ET

I have to be honest- I am both surprised and disappointed to see that he is not further ahead. As someone from outside the US (I live in the UK), I find it incomprehensible that so many people would still wish to vote for McCain- Obama is not perfect by any means but he is at least presenting far better thought out, articulate and sensible policies than McCain, while making far less stupid mistakes/ insulting remarks (i.e. to the Iranians, the French, the poor etc).

Having said that- Obama is at least polling consistently above McCain in all polls, meaning margin of error talk is redundant (although of course in Polls of polls there is not such thing anyway).

It seems that fluctuations come from McCain supporters wavering between becoming undecideds and then getting cold feet rather than Obama losing support.

Daisilou-NC   July 24th, 2008 12:30 pm ET

JESUS could not satify us so how can anybody us.

Independent   July 24th, 2008 12:30 pm ET

If you would listen to the media, you would have thought the election was over. All this great coverage, and he goes down. Could it be that the parts of his trip where reporters weren't allowed didn't go so well. I know most Jews are voting McCain. Maybe this is why Germans are embracing Obama?

McCain 08′

Ken   July 24th, 2008 12:28 pm ET

Can 43% of Americans be so STUPID!? It is absolutely astonishing.

Our forefathers gave us a wonderful start at self-governing. But one would have to be self-loathing to vote to continue this [R] mess. It is the only answer for why people would vote against their own and against their country's best interests.

bt   July 24th, 2008 12:28 pm ET

Appears there is a set up to steal election again?????? How could this man with all the senior moments he has been having, be that close in the polls..you as the media can direct this anyway you want…as far as Obama being afraid to debate McCain … you have to be out of your ever lovin mind…you will have the opportunity to see a debate and not a town hall meeting…McCain will not be able to remember how to ans any questions and if he does he will quote some off base info as he usually does…McCain is so boring nothing but boring people want to listen to him not to mention look at him…get out of dodge…

Texan   July 24th, 2008 12:26 pm ET

Hey Obama supporters, what's up with all of the excuses?

When Obama was ahead by 10, you didn't think the Polls were wrong.

Obama is going down, people are starting to see how naive and inexperienced he really is.

Frank Canada   July 24th, 2008 12:25 pm ET

It would be in your country's best interest not to publish polls showing McCain anywhere close to Obama as it tarnishes your image throughout the world.

I wonder if the American people really understand or know how foolish their country appears to anyone outside the U.S. as you don't have to be rocket scientist to figure out only a moron will support and vote for a moron when their very futures depend on their decision?

IAMWMD   July 24th, 2008 12:25 pm ET

Obama easily leads by double digits. This latest durvey done by CNN was done in West Virginia and Kentucky

Vigla   July 24th, 2008 12:25 pm ET

Griff, you mean John "Old Man" McCain, right?

Worst...Resume...Ever....   July 24th, 2008 12:23 pm ET

So the Nobama rock star media world tour is wrapping up and his lead is actually slipping? Ironic. News anchors everywhere must be distraught.

Jeff   July 24th, 2008 12:23 pm ET

I have nothing but contempt for Obama and those who support him. This is not time for training wheels in the White House. Obama has accomplished nothing of importance in his entire political career and is running on nothing but arrogance and rhetoric. This is a prime example of the irresponsible American electorate.

Vigla   July 24th, 2008 12:22 pm ET

Doug, I'm from NJ too. You don't speak for us. Dukakis had a larger lead AFTER his convention. He lost it because of #1, a lack of money to compete against Bush and #2, a popular incumbent president. Neither is the case now.

Admit it, Repuiblicans suck this year. McCain was a bad choice. Once the conventions and debates are over, McCain will be down by more.

Tony C.   July 24th, 2008 12:21 pm ET

Take that Johnny Boy. You and the Republican Party are soon to be toast. SWEET!

Linda. Boston, MA   July 24th, 2008 12:21 pm ET

Barack Obama has been consistently ahead of McCain for the last 4 months. And after he returns from Europe and selects his VP, his lead will only increase.

McCain can only win if Obama were to make some incredibly gigantic gaffe, which seems quite unlikely at this point.

In other words, McCain's screwed.

Don   July 24th, 2008 12:21 pm ET

This is some really bad statistical manipulation. Each time it comes out, it contains a different set of polls. The only difference from one week to the next is which polls were selected to contribute. That's not a "trend".

Next week, they'll have the Quinnipiac survey in there and Obama will "surge" ahead by 4 points.

The only thing that would make this worthwhile is to look at the trend of changes to each poll. Unfortunately, that probably wouldn't be controversial so why bother printing it, right?

Wisconsin   July 24th, 2008 12:20 pm ET

One of the three polls used

Wall Street Journal owned by Rupert Murdoch

Michele Hussein, Oregon   July 24th, 2008 12:20 pm ET

Has anyone seen one McCain sign where they live????? NOT ONE that I've seen. Not even a bumper sticker…….Who and where, exactly, are they polling?

The good side of this is that it alerts us that we must not be complacent.

Obama '08!

NORA, FLORIDA   July 24th, 2008 12:19 pm ET

We saw it in the Dem Primaries that these POLLS are JOKES and it is amazing how people get so worked up. Trust me when I tell you, not all Republicans who are claiming openly they will vote for McCain will vote when they are in that booth making their decision. That is the same as with Obama so these polls are WORTHLESS!!!!

Vigla   July 24th, 2008 12:19 pm ET

HBM, we do… This is within the margin of error. McCain can't get past 43% nationally. That's his ceiling. The remaining 10 percent, if they split between the two, will make it 52% to 48%. If Obama gets 52%, it's over… A 52% total means he will pull all the swings states and perhaps pick off a red state or two.

Forget it, McCain has to convince 10% of America that Obama is a "bad" man. He's called him everything including a traitor. I'm sorry, McCain's temperament is going to be an issue. Who wants an angry old man as president?

Unify On Issues   July 24th, 2008 12:19 pm ET

4% – You've got to question that – compare to individual polls.

Jason L   July 24th, 2008 12:17 pm ET

I am gonna heckle CNN.. hows that grab ya??

What exactly are our strategic interests in Israel again?? They have no oil, nothing really to "sell" to the U.S.

When was the last time anyone was at Wal-Mart or Target and said, Whoa, where did all these Jewish made products come from, i'm seeing less Chinese goods these day! LMAO Hmmm must be the influx of lawyers that Israel supplies us..

I am sick of America being in bed with Israel and the taxpayers dollars, Billions of them ending up supporting Israel's terrorist attacks on the Palestinian people.. We supply them with Nuclear technology. Fighter planes, weapons.. If the U.S. were to be less friendly with Israel and stop our influence, then maybe peace in the middle east would be achieved.

Obamafest.. what a joke. This isn't Woodstock or Ozzfest. FREAKS!!

marian   July 24th, 2008 12:16 pm ET

WHAT GOD HAS FOR BARACK IT IS FOR HIM, NOONE CAN STOP THE ALMIGHTY. I MEAN NO ONE. SO EVERYONE THAT IS FOR BARACK AND BELEIVES IN PRAYER, PRAY FOR HIM.

Bulldog   July 24th, 2008 12:15 pm ET

WASHINGTON (Reuters) – The Commodities Futures Trading Commission charged global trading fund Optiver Holding BV with NYMEX oil market manipulation that allegedly took place in March 2007.

The Republicans are currently debating over a speculation bill and saying speculation and manipulation have nothing to do with high prices. Oh really? Breaking news, these speculators are beginning to get caught and charged for market manipulation. But the Republicans in the Senate continue to say it's not happening. Now if that's not ignorance or blatant lies I don't know what is.

John Smith   July 24th, 2008 12:14 pm ET

The US is crazy, but not insane enough to elect Barack Hussein Obama. When it comes down to it, complete landslide victory for John. It will be looked on in the future as "what were the dems thinking" Gore, Kerry and now this. Way to be in touch with America. Maybe Gorby, Mandella or Al Frankin can be next on your list.

OBAMA SUPPORTER IN IOWA   July 24th, 2008 12:13 pm ET

Hey, here's a thought. A good majority of Obama supporters don't own a land line. Are cell phones polled? I don't think so. Do you really believe the pollsters are showing a good representation of the will of the people? I'm thinking landslide. Kudos, CNN, on your "Black in America" program last night. I was very moved.

Griff   July 24th, 2008 12:13 pm ET

That is 50% down, from what you stated a week ago… Maybe John "The Man" McCain is 2% higher in the real Poll of Poll,s, than Borack Obama..

Doug, New Jersey   July 24th, 2008 12:11 pm ET

Most Americans are not liberals so they do thier own thinking and are seeing that Obama is an empty suit that the lib media is trying to force into the White House.

Funny, the "Tank" from the P.R.O.M had a bigger lead in '88 than Obamanation has at this point. The media can only decieve for so long, eventually the America people see through their deception, lies and pathetic liberal Democrat pandering.

Ted People   July 24th, 2008 12:11 pm ET

I think Barack will hold a small lead until he becomes president. The democrats will also get a couple more senate seats to improve their majority lead. The republicans will go down hill as usual. Thanks.

C from Texas   July 24th, 2008 12:11 pm ET

Seems McCain gains ground every week. If everyone was out to support Obama like the press would like us to believe he would be ahead by 30 or 40 percent. Funny how some polls have McCain ahead by 20 to 30 percent. Wonder why they don't poll the people in Texas, McCain would be ahead by 70 percent.

CNN is the only news site that support Obama to no end, wait till the first debate and McCain will jump in the polls, that is if Obama has enough guts to debate McCain. Ask your self why he's so afraid to debate him?

McCain '08

sherry   July 24th, 2008 12:11 pm ET

I CANT BELIEVE THAT OBAMA DOESNT HAVE A HIGHER LEAD

DO PEOPLE REALLY WANT 4 MORE YEARS OF THE SAME……….
HIGH GAS PRICES..HOUSING CRISIS….INFLATION…… OTHER COUNTRIES PEOPLE HATING US…..GLOOM AND DOOM

THIS WILL HAPPEN IF YOU VOTE FOR MCLAME

RyanD.   July 24th, 2008 12:10 pm ET

Only the Electoral map matters…and Obama is up in FLA for the first time.

Report that, CNN.

Bryan   July 24th, 2008 12:10 pm ET

I don't get it…

McCain just keeps screwing up and proving just how out of touch he is with not only the American people…but the world.

He admittedly doesn't agree with the majority of Americans about Iraq. And now we know that Iraq's own (U.S.-sponsored) government doesn't agree with him either.

On Iran, even Bush disagrees with him.

He admits that he is clueless when it comes to the economy, the consensus top issue in this election.

Yet somehow he keeps narrowing Obama's lead. Apparently a lot of people are buying into his tired, substance-less arguments..that Obama is less qualified because he hasn't been in Washington as long and hasn't visited Iraq as many times.

Funny, though, that all McCain's overseas visits haven't prevented him from being wrong, time and again, on almost every foreign-policy related issue.

So what is his strong point again?

Ted's People   July 24th, 2008 12:09 pm ET

I think Barack will maintain his lead until he becomes president. The democrats will also pick up a couple of senate seats to top it off and break the small majority lead. The republicans will probably go down hill this year. Too bad.

Kevin   July 24th, 2008 12:07 pm ET

Hillarious!!! Obama is trying to campaign overseas and disrespect our troops by saying their hard work is not why Iraq is doing better. That Iraq would have gotten better if we pulled everyone out instead of proving we have the resolve to win the long wars. Now his lead is down to 4 percentage points which is a dead heat if you count the error percentage. He was about a month ago ahead by close to 10. Guess America is starting to wise up to this flip-flopping phony. I hope this "awakening" continues all the way to November!

Anyone but Obama!!!

lorentz   July 24th, 2008 12:07 pm ET

At least democrats will not use and abuse latinos like the GOP
……i.e Alberto Gonzales, illegal workers etc….to their sneaky purposes.

Dylan   July 24th, 2008 12:06 pm ET

I can't believe McBush is even in the vicinity of Obama with the utter ineptitude of his campaign and the incompetence he has show time and again during his run.

Sorry McSame… it ain't gonna be this close come November.

fella from Chicago   July 24th, 2008 12:05 pm ET

Maybe people are beginning to read commentaries like the one of Glenn Beck's and are realizing the media has for the most part clearly endorsed Obama and consider him the next President of the United States without the benefit of an election. The so-called unbiased media has swooned under the hypnotic influence of this guy. Thank God not all of the American people are brain dead and the gap between the two hopefully will narrow even more over the next couple of months as people realize this Obama is a fraud and a danger to our country.

Nate   July 24th, 2008 12:05 pm ET

Of course, not a word that McCain is pulling ahead in several important battleground states.

rak   July 24th, 2008 12:04 pm ET

If the narrowing becomes significant, I interpret it as a truly sad sign that as petty, scurrilous (Joe Klein's word), negative and fact-twisting as the repubs attacks have been — the tactics continue to work.

Some will say that the difference is that the public is learning the candidate's views on key issues, but, I (personally, obviously) just don't have that feel.

Mostly, I have that feel because Obama has necessarily been on a trip working on relationships and images and not focusing on communicating his views, and McCain has been on a tirade, attacking and insulting Obama.

I truly hope that in the coming months this campaign is brought out of the gutter. Alternatively or as a last resort, regrettably, I can only hope that the gutter battle is joined if that is what Americans insist with their votes.

That would be very, very sad, but the only thing sadder would be one candidate allowing himself to be attacked mercilessly, with the half-witted section of the American media and population playing along.

James Hussein, SC   July 24th, 2008 12:04 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

Anonymous   July 24th, 2008 12:02 pm ET

it probaly is the 6 attack ads the Mcshame said he would not particpate in but after every commercial it say Mcshame approves this message more fearmongering from the republicans when Barack comes back he needs to hit Mcbush with everything

Steve, Madison WI   July 24th, 2008 11:59 am ET

These polls fail to include people with only cell phones, many of whom are young people who back Obama.

If over 60% of the Latino vote and 90% of the Black vote and over 50% of the woman vote, etc……are for Obama – there is no way that the polls are this close.

Granted, there are about 33% of Americans that are "hardcore" Repubs who would vote for Satan (or Bush) as long as he was a Repub, and likewise goes for about 33% of the people who are Dems. The other 33% are basically Independents who actually look at the issues and candidates. But after 8 years of Bush, and McCain looking much the same, there is no way true Independents such as myself could ever vote for McCain.

marianna   July 24th, 2008 11:59 am ET

Ahead by 4 – down from 8 a few days ago!

Dan, TX   July 24th, 2008 11:58 am ET

Come on, if we keep ignoring McCain, he'll continue to go up in the polls. It's when people actually hear what McCain stands for that he goes down. So, McCain is on his only real strategy, try to tear down Obama and hide so that no one sees what his policy positions are.

What are they? Can anyone say where McCain stands on anything other than some vague notion that we need to stay in Iraq until we win – and we won't know when we win until Halliburton tells us?

Henry n New York   July 24th, 2008 11:58 am ET

If the polls are correct what they are saying should really bother Americans as a whole. What it depicts is that you have one candidate that has made confusing statements regarding several areas of foreign policy. McCain has confused Shia and Sunni; he has moved Iraq's border next to Pakistan; he argues a tactical right (the surge) judgment against an overall mid-east plan (Iraq is the wrong war, wrong country, wrong enemy) and wrong on our future position regarding Iraq. The Iraq government wants U.S. troop withdrawal, Senator Obama has called for that withdrawal for years, Afghanistan is becoming an increasingly dangerous project and Bin Laden has not been captured or killed. Obama's plans would save our soldiers and bring most of them home, it would go after a leader responsible for the death of thousands. McCain wants to stay in Iraq even against their wishes, he now wants to send the same number of troops to Afghanistan almost a year after Obama first called for more troops there. He voted against the current GI bill and yet the polls say over 40 percent of Americans still would vote for him. Hillary supporters say they are voting for McCain even though he doesn't believe a women has a right to control her own body and he wants to make abortions illegal. If the polls aren't altered, slanted or bias then it appears their is only one obvious reason. Many Americans must be polling on skin color and not the content of the candidates campaigns. Another sad realization of American immaturity, lack of unity and inheritant prejudice just maybe the result of our next election and if that happens – God help us all. This just could be worst than the last 8 if McCain gains the White House.

WML   July 24th, 2008 11:57 am ET

curious…. to listen to his supporters and follow the news coverage, you'd think he was 20+ points ahead.

for someone who raised so much cash and enjoys rock-star status, to be only 4 points ahead (probably within the margin of error) and down 2 points from the last poll, doesn't seem like he's doing as well as people think.

i'm not a mccain backer, but i'm leery of. mr. obama.

SKadams   July 24th, 2008 11:57 am ET

I'm shocked! CNN has their Messiah up in their polls? I'm feeling a tingling up my leg that MSNBC also has him up in their polls. The general population isn't buying any of these so called polls. They are probably done in predominately democratic counties. The media is obviously biased.

Mike   July 24th, 2008 11:57 am ET

All this obama mania but the lead is only 4. WOW.. I am having a hard time believing this. I thought he would be up by atleast 20 points with all the coverage he has been getting.

Honest Black Man   July 24th, 2008 11:56 am ET

4!?!?

Hmmm…. and I thought everybody hated those bitter Republicans.

Voter   July 24th, 2008 11:55 am ET

Goodness me! ONLY FOUR POINTS??? Anyone would think that the "presumptive Emperor nominee" was 40 points ahead if they followed most of the media displays of blind worship.

I see Obama has released the statement that he plans to make a "substantive" speech in Germany.

As opposed to most of his other speeches?? I'm on the edge of my seat.

Reminds me of bulk mail from advertisers: "This is not junk mail." Or "Open this now!" Read: not like all the other crap we send out.

Mike, Syracuse, NY   July 24th, 2008 11:55 am ET

On July 11th the difference was 8 points, now only 4. Maybe if Obama stays in Europe a few more weeks it will be zero. The more we see, the worse he does. Maybe America is shaking off the koolade.

R   July 24th, 2008 11:54 am ET

Actually, if you add the other 2 candidates into the mix, which was done also, Obama is up by 16pts. Guess lots of people are eager to vote for Barr, and Nader. Jeez, the media really does bad reporting these days, can't wait for Obama to be elected to re-regulate this so called "news"

FRANK, CA   July 24th, 2008 11:53 am ET

YES WE CAN..LOL

Bob Indianapolis, IN   July 24th, 2008 11:53 am ET

These polls are laughable! Everyone who believes this slim lead, raise your hands….

Obummer   July 24th, 2008 11:50 am ET

Despite all his money, despite all the media attention, despite all the advantages a democrat should have in 2008, Obama's single digit lead gets smaller.
Democrats, will you ever make a rational decision for your presidential candidate?

mike s.   July 24th, 2008 11:50 am ET

And, note, this narrow gap is DESPITE the constant barrage of "Hollywood-like" media coverage that Obama has been getting now for several months.

PUMA.
McCain '08

Montana is Obama Country   July 24th, 2008 11:49 am ET

**

………BarackTOBER FEST…..

**

………. Yes WE Can…..

fairandstraight   July 24th, 2008 11:49 am ET

1,2,3,4,5,6 points. It doesn't matter as long as he comes out ahead.

Cindy Hussein McCain   July 24th, 2008 11:47 am ET

Regardless of what the polls say, Obama will win by a landslide!

mary   July 24th, 2008 11:46 am ET

Is this a daily poll taken on July 16, because the weekly poll is still attached to the link & it shows Obama up by 6.

In any case, go to Zogby.com and look at the interactive map – it's showing more purple states today.

Hillary Backer for McCain   July 24th, 2008 11:46 am ET

I smell a Mc Rally baby..soon Mac will be up by 5% then double digits..first we will take OH, then MI, then FL then PA then NH and on and on…woooh!!!

therealist   July 24th, 2008 11:45 am ET

Objectivity has been replaced by biased news coverage and Obama is still in a statistical dead heat with McCain??

Now that's news..

Tess, Dallas   July 24th, 2008 11:45 am ET

Thanks CNN for being honest!
Sorry! Obama's 5-day trip to Middle East and Europe this week means nothing to most of us! His rating is dropping like rain in the forest….and the polls have narrowed over the past days between John McCain & Obama. One can tell why!

JD   July 24th, 2008 11:44 am ET

Let me ask, if Mr. Obama wins, will all nonbelievers be rounded up and sent to re-education camps, or will they just be, um, "rendered unviable"?

Terri   July 24th, 2008 11:44 am ET

What matters is the poll on November 4.

Obama08

Kim A.   July 24th, 2008 11:43 am ET

Bring Clinton on as VP and watch the numbers jump into the double-digits.

Praetorian, Fort Myers   July 24th, 2008 11:41 am ET

2, 4, 6, 8 who do we appreciate….

John McCain. He may be old, he may be grumpy–but he isn't an idiot and he'll ensure that America won't continue to bear the entire financial burden for the war on terror–like Bush and Obama policies will require us to do.

Go John. Force western (industrialized and wealthy) europe to step up to the plate and not make the worldwide war on terror an "American affari".

I'm so tired of these snobs on the sidelines ridiculing our efforts while reaping the rewards in their own security!!!

McCain 2008
We need someone who is really going to change things in a MEANINGFUL way.

Julie   July 24th, 2008 11:41 am ET

I think the next round of polls will be much more telling than these. These were done at the start of Obama's trip – I'm much more interested in the results following the trip.

BR   July 24th, 2008 11:40 am ET

It can't be….not everyone is drinking the BHO flavored Kool-Aid. Maybe not everyone wants to be in a cult and change their middle name to feel cool. How can this be??

McCain Lies!   July 24th, 2008 11:40 am ET

Ask yourself why a known man (mccain) with all his supposed credentials and so called 'experience' has not led Obama in one poll since Obama, a relative new comer, became the nominee?

Tony, Miami   July 24th, 2008 11:40 am ET

I am waiting for the polls of October so far it's too early to have real numbers

Watermann   July 24th, 2008 11:39 am ET

Fully understand the mainstream polls. Keep people under stress and always show a tight race/result. Not a bad tactic but widely known. LOL

Ian   July 24th, 2008 11:39 am ET

4% ahead when it comes to flip-flops?

Independent   July 24th, 2008 11:38 am ET

I really don't think these polls of polls matter much, It's the state and battleground states that really tells the story.

Understanding the Metrics   July 24th, 2008 11:37 am ET

To be fair, these polls SHOULD include the other parties in the election – green, independent, etc

When you do that, Obama's metric stays the same… McCain's drops precipitously. That's because those who are voting AGAINST Obama, aren't necessarily voting FOR McCain…

Polls mean little unless they include everyone and don't use "loaded" questions.

Casey | Tecumseh, MO.

Anonymous   July 24th, 2008 11:36 am ET

I thought Obama was up by 20 by the coverage he gets!

How could Obamas Latino support have gone up by so much if his poll number drop? The media is doing everything it can to prop up this guy. Thank God people vote not CNN, ABC, NBC, FOX, NYT and Wahington Post.

Matt-NE   July 24th, 2008 11:35 am ET

The gap continues to narrow, the undecided numbers continue to grow.

McCain will slowly take the lead by 10 going into the election.

Once McCain wins, the leftists will cry foul after all the media praise made is seem that Obama was unbeatable.

McCain '08!! Country over Party

Carl from MI   July 24th, 2008 11:34 am ET

I smell a landslide…just give it time!! Hey, did you hear about how well McCain's doing with Latino voters?? Not so good….

Texas Voter   July 24th, 2008 11:33 am ET

This "polling" system would seem a little out of date in the cell phone and internet age.

John Smith   July 24th, 2008 11:33 am ET

The US is crazy, but not insane enough to elect Barack Hussein Obama. When it comes down to it, complete landslide victory for John. It will be looked on in the future as "what were the dems thinking" Crazy man gore, kerry socialist, and now this. The horror, the horror.

ali   July 24th, 2008 11:32 am ET

not commenting on anymore polls .they're dumb and innaccurate.

Phil, FL   July 24th, 2008 11:30 am ET

What's the matter CNN? Your ratings dropping in favor of the more radical news stations that stir up more trouble?

You'll get the attention, but not everyone is included in your polls.

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