July 30, 2008
Posted: July 30th, 2008 04:13 PM ET

From
Obama's trip abroad did little to alter the presidential race.
Obama's trip abroad did little to alter the presidential race.

(CNN) - It was a weeklong trip that drew blanket media coverage and sharp criticism from Republicans, but Barack Obama's recent tour abroad did little to alter the standing of the presidential race, a new CNN/Opinion Research Corporation poll shows.

According to the survey - the first national poll conducted entirely after the Democratic presidential candidate's trip to Iraq, Afghanistan, the Middle East, and Europe - the race for the White House has remained virtually unchanged since late June, with Obama holding a 51-44 percent edge over Sen. John McCain. In a similar poll conducted one month ago, Obama held a 5-point lead over the senator from Arizona , 50-45 percent.

The CNN poll of polls, an average of several recent national surveys, tells the same story - a single-digit lead for Obama (48-45 percent) that keeps McCain within easy striking distance of his Democratic rival with less than 100 days before voters weigh in at the polls.

The new survey also suggests the trip - carefully designed to burnish Obama's foreign policy credentials - did little to alter voters' perceptions of how the Illinois senator would handle national security issues.

"Did Obama's trip help his standing with the public on foreign policy issues? Not really," CNN Polling Director Keating Holland said. "Obama has not picked up any ground against McCain on foreign issues and some 52 percent think McCain would do a better job than Obama on the war in Iraq - virtually the same number who felt that way in April."

The poll also shows the presumptive Republican presidential nominee has an edge on terrorism, Iran, Afghanistan and the Middle East - in fact, every foreign policy and national security issue addressed tilts toward McCain. (Terrorism, Afghanistan, Iraq, Middle East, Iran, and Immigration.)

But in what is good news for Obama, the poll suggests few of the McCain campaign's criticisms of the trip have stuck - especially charges Obama was presumptuously acting as if he had already won the election, and claims he nixed a visit with injured troops because members of the media could not accompany him.

Instead, more than two-thirds of voters surveyed said the trip was appropriate for a presidential candidate, and 72 percent think Obama cares abut veterans and the troops currently in Iraq.

Full story

Filed under: Barack Obama • John McCain • Polls


Dave,Harrisburg PA.   July 30th, 2008 9:23 pm ET

will the world or Americans decide the next president of the United States? In my opinion it is Americans,right? so why taking polls based on Senator Obama's trip overseas.? it is not necessarily.

Obama 2008!!

aware   July 30th, 2008 9:07 pm ET

Senator McCain will be the next president of the USA because he is more trustworthy than the arrogant, obfuscating Obama! This is not the time to roll the dice on an audacious novice. :)

And, Obama will never choose the only VP that might give him a chance. It is hilarious! :)

America, it is our time to vote for an American hero with the character, experience, integrity, wisdom, knowledge, judgment and gravitas to be president. :)

kelly WI   July 30th, 2008 9:05 pm ET

Obamas cockiness is getting too extreme. Sorry, but he is not the king of the world.

BROOKLYN   July 30th, 2008 9:01 pm ET

Change the race?
His trip was a traveling circus joke...

No more politics as usual? Thats a laugh.

Monica for Obama in Indiana   July 30th, 2008 8:55 pm ET

Who cares everyone knows polls lie.

CNN, why didn't you write and show the nice song that was written for Senator Kennedy.

bj   July 30th, 2008 8:52 pm ET

To voice of reason:
I think you may be surprised at how many people support McCain and don't support Obama. It's not politically correct to speak out in public against Obama because he's "black", but over the phone, or particularly in a voting booth people are going to vote their conscsious
and that means disaster for Obama.

Carolyn   July 30th, 2008 8:48 pm ET

The polls are nothing but biased media – who spend their life bashing Sen. Obama. The p ublic won't forget what the media has done or the organizations who own them.

TheTruthHurts   July 30th, 2008 8:46 pm ET

And it shouldn't change the race. Whatever idiots who thought he would go over there and make a fool of himself had to be a small subset of voters. I'm hopeful that people will study the candidates, the needs of this country and make a choice.

McCain 2000 would have made an interesting choice. McCain 2008 makes this too easy in my book.

Scott L   July 30th, 2008 8:44 pm ET

Obama is learning that Americans are not stupid. Parlor tricks and waving his hand every time he speaks won't win him the presidency. Mark my words Dems, you have made a fatal mistake anointing him. Superdelegates may still override this arrogant loser.

PUMA 4 HILL   July 30th, 2008 8:37 pm ET

Why would it change the race? Obama is ACTING as if he's the symbol of CHANGE and of America's Hope. I've been saying all along.... no beef on his buns.

Where's the Beef Obama?
NO BEEF, NOBAMA.

Tennisguypitt   July 30th, 2008 8:37 pm ET

Polls don't mean anything, CNN.

Wait until November, please.

AK in LA   July 30th, 2008 8:34 pm ET

Sorry to break the news, but almost half of the people in the US do not want Obama and want to vote for McCain. Obama supporters should come out of denial. He's got to convince the undecided voters to vote for him. Plain and simple. He just hasn't and in my opinion (including myself) hasn't tried. My advice is stop spending so much time blogging here and blaming the pollsters and get out and work for the vote. A Democratic victory is just not a sure thing this year.

steve   July 30th, 2008 8:33 pm ET

For those of you who think the media is attacking Obama you're dead wrong. He receives more positive media attention than any current politician I can recall. CNN won't print this.

RJ, CA   July 30th, 2008 8:17 pm ET

Surprise, surprise!

The AOl Straw Poll – REAL people voting REALTIME: July-21-28: 211,993 total votes cast: , McCain 66%, Obama 34%!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

ANNOY THE LIBERALS
Work - Succeed - Be Happy!

Phil Newton Murphy, Oregon   July 30th, 2008 8:16 pm ET

It's the economy, stupid.

OBAMA 08

Aunt   July 30th, 2008 8:15 pm ET

CNN Keeps The Same Old Story Line. Ok We heard this hundreds of times!
Bored CNN.

obama is unfit to be president of this country   July 30th, 2008 8:13 pm ET

obama is a disgrace.

GERRY   July 30th, 2008 8:13 pm ET

IT SHOULDN'T HAVE CHANGED THE POLLS, THIS SHOULD PROVE THAT HIS TRIP WAS NOT POLITICALLY MOTIVATED,
HIS TRIP SHOULD HAVE PROVED TO EVERYONE WITHOUT A DOUBT THAT HE IS WELL RESPECTED BY LADERS AND FOREIGN CITIZENS AROUND THE WORLD. HE IS THE PERSON THAT WILL BRING RESPECT BACK TO THE OVAL OFFICE AND GAIN CONFIDENCE BACK TO NOT ONLT PEOPLE HERE AT HOME BUT AROUND THE WORLD. YOU DID US PROUD SENATOR OBAMA.

sue calgary   July 30th, 2008 8:10 pm ET

Polls mean nothing! The true question is whether Americans are ready for an African American President. A lot of people don't want to voice this opinion beacause it may not be " politically correct" and there are those who would like to believe that the "race issue" is almost a non-issue" in America. Well, this will be the clear test of where America stands today on race. It is glaring to me at least that Obama is the better candidate- more dynamic, better ideas, fresh ideas, obviously not perfect but a lot more to offer both domestically and internationally than McCain will ever have! Forget about the polls. November will tell the story.
The eyes of the world are watching!

Dani   July 30th, 2008 8:07 pm ET

how is 51-44 close?

deroy   July 30th, 2008 8:05 pm ET

there are too many questions about obama. he seems unsafe and very inexperienced.

what on his resume prepares him for president?

Priscilla for Obama   July 30th, 2008 8:00 pm ET

It doesn't matter what the poles show, Obama has shown that he can govern our country. We believe in you Obama and America is ready for change. Yes We Can!!!

aaa   July 30th, 2008 7:58 pm ET

it shows world loves him and it will effect

vic nashville,Tn   July 30th, 2008 7:55 pm ET

Thanks to CBS,NBC and abc

Me Here   July 30th, 2008 7:54 pm ET

Lisa, wake up. Hillary doesn't even want to be VP.

Study the issues and make your vote based on those, not because you're still upset over something that's been over and done with for quite some time now. Even Hillary is supporting Barack, why won't you?

Debby, NJ   July 30th, 2008 7:53 pm ET

Duh,Didn't Obama say this ?
BARACK THE VOTE !!!

mmd   July 30th, 2008 7:50 pm ET

CNN who are you polling, lou Dobbs and Dana Bash. Poor Mcsame thinks the war is in Flagstaff. Give me a break, what has Mcsame done or said of an factual sustance lately that has to do with anything that involves the 21th century. He is sad, and the only reason that anybody could have any faith in his saneness of ability is because you and other news org. cover up for him. God help us if he gets in office.

Anna, Atlanta   July 30th, 2008 7:49 pm ET

Agreed, Lisa.
its a landslide with Hillary on the ticket.

Actually Brian, it might have helped Obama if he visited the wounded troops, not just those who were healthy enough to pose for pictures!
Its documented. he could not have planned the trip without the permission of the Pentagon, and he had permission if no cameras.

That was a Goof that made no sense, and those cameras he took to Europe could not stop there. They had to follow him to the gym instead. NICE impression!

there was one cameraman following McCain around in th States: he didnt see any goofs.

Not McDrain   July 30th, 2008 7:49 pm ET

I don't believe the polls anymore. This political season has been a boon to the cable news networks. They'll keep stirring the pot so we think it's close. Yeah, I know we got Dubya twice but this race is over and it's been over for a long time.
Vote Hope!!!

Chris from NY   July 30th, 2008 7:45 pm ET

The media is bent on manupulating the polls to make it seem like Obama is not doing well. But we his supporters know he is doing much better than the media will like to admit. We will keep doing what we're doing while the media continues to do what it needs to do to get ratings. November will show them what we already know. I remeber what happened in the North Carolina primaries. Pundits and their polls predicted Obama may win NC by a small margin or even lose it to Hillary. They were in for a rude awakening and suprise of their lives. It will happen again in November.

Kirk Cunningham   July 30th, 2008 7:42 pm ET

PS: the headline of this article implies "no change" in the race. in fact, ther was a 2 percentage point increase in Obama's lead...more than Bush beat Kerry by in 2004. The headline should read "small improvement" in the race to be more accurate. Sloppy reporting CNN.

OBAMA Supporter all the way   July 30th, 2008 7:41 pm ET

I don't agree. It has changed how people see him for the better.

They need to ask why McCain can't draw a crowd of people. Who wants a president no one wants to listen to and who doesn't listen to us?

Phil   July 30th, 2008 7:38 pm ET

Dream on Lisa, it ain't gonna happen, and frankly Obama don't need your vote, as if you really mattered, you my dear is a loud mouth full of nothing but hot stale air.

Kirk Cunningham   July 30th, 2008 7:37 pm ET

This write-up of the CNN survey is REDICULOUS...if you read the entire survey, Obama wins on the economy, taxes, jobs, healthcare and gas prices...and these aren't even mentioned in the article!!!

Charles   July 30th, 2008 7:36 pm ET

The media needs to learn to stop playing with the numbers. They talk about a 51-44 lead as if it's insignificant. A 51-44 victory in November would translate into roughly a 275 electoral vote victory. Seven points sounds more dramatic, but the race is won by the electoral college, and that poll shows Obama with a commanding lead.

Democrats for the white house   July 30th, 2008 7:22 pm ET

Because some americans refused to admit McCain really has no more FP experience than Obama. Now McCain knows how to catch Bin-Laden, well Johnny america sure could have used your expertise on his capture about 7 years ago. He knows how to win wars well Johnny the vietnam was was a no winner,because america entered it for the same reason we entered Iraq for an unwinable money making situation!!!!!!!!!

Reality Check   July 30th, 2008 7:18 pm ET

Lisa,

You can say whatever you want. Hillary will never never be on the ticket.

I reject that to ever happen.

Sorry

ran   July 30th, 2008 7:17 pm ET

who are these people who get polled.i have never been polled. put the # of people polled and where they are from and not say most of americans. be objective cnn if you can

LIBERAL-WV   July 30th, 2008 7:16 pm ET

According to the poll, Obama's lead over McCain inreased from 5 to 7 points, yet this CNN headline states that Obama's lead remains unchanged. CNN has recently been releasing polls that show McCain to be better off than he actually is. To get a true reflection of where this race ACTUALLY stands, I encourage everyone to check out fivethirtyeight.com or electoral-vote.com.CNN is starting to look a whole lot like FAUX NEWS! OBAMA 2008 and 2012!!!!!!!

doob   July 30th, 2008 7:11 pm ET

I did my own little poll and Obama was ahead by 100. This McSame guy is one scary dude.

Once a Obama Supporter   July 30th, 2008 7:10 pm ET

People have noticed that Obama says ‘Yes, we can’ but all his policies towards energy independence lead to ‘No, we can’t’.
1) No new nuclear energy
2) No coal mining (even when US coal reserves are more than oil reserves in any part of the world, please look at statistics)
3) No lower taxes
4) He hasn’t said of any solution to raise the value of dollar.

So basically Obama;s ‘Yes we can’ = No, we can’t’

Young people who are following him as a Pied Pier need to know this. He is not the president for us when the country is in recession. He may be good but he needs more experince.

Another Republican voting for Obama   July 30th, 2008 7:08 pm ET

The Republican Party under the rule of George Bush and Dick Cheney will say anything to get the American people to believe that opening enviromentally sensitive land will bring down gas prices.

The real plan is to get as much land freed up for the big oil companies before George Bush and Dick Cheney leave office.

So what the latest polls are saying is that we have a bunch of naive Americans willing to believe the lies coming from the Republican party. Haven't they fooled us enough? How much more of beating can we take?

Tara   July 30th, 2008 7:07 pm ET

It didn't change the race because that was not his INTENTION. He went to learn and meet with leaders from the world, not to gain votes. He's already won the hearts and votes of millions of voters!

Chut Pata   July 30th, 2008 7:06 pm ET

Good! He was afraid that his poularity will dip during this time because he is away talking about internation matters rather than being home and talk about domestic problems like gas, housing, and jobs.

Good news for Obama.

A Voter for Intelligence/Honesty in Govt   July 30th, 2008 7:06 pm ET

He was up 5 in June and now he is up 7 and it didn't change.? Silly as these polls are, how many percents do Presidents usually win by??

New polls have Obama up 9 in both Wasgiungton and Pennsylvania!!

wiser   July 30th, 2008 7:05 pm ET

Senator Obama has only celebrity to offer America. What has he done? What are his accomplishments?

Americans will not be fooled by an adoring press. We will not support someone with so little experience. The press can keep pushing Senator Obama on us but the voters will not elect him. We are not electing an American Idol. We are electing a president, which is more than a popularity contest.

We will choose experience, judgment, and a genuine war hero over a zero every time!

Democrats for McCain!

jimntat   July 30th, 2008 7:03 pm ET

Well, Lisa, my dear. If it IS Hillary, no vote from me, so I guess that evens it out!

Patrick M   July 30th, 2008 7:02 pm ET

I don't trust these polls.

Another Republican voting for Obama   July 30th, 2008 7:02 pm ET

Experience is only as good as it's possessor

Incompetent people have so called "experience"
Idiots have so called "experience"
Criminals have so called "experience"
Liars have so called "experience"
Cheaters have so called "experience"

Experience is only as good as it's possessor

Sick of Republican Tactics!   July 30th, 2008 7:02 pm ET

Hellooooo! Would somebody please tell me exactly what qualified McSame to be an expert on foreign policy???? Being captured during a failed war (Vietnam) and enduring mistreatment (not having a choice in the matter), and having the same, poor judgement to enter the U.S. into an unnecessary war with Iraq, instead of Afganistan, does not qualify anyone to be president.

Being a (very old) ex-prisoner of war does not give anyone the qualification, nor good judgement, to be president! If anything, they may have possible mental problems!

EJO   July 30th, 2008 6:59 pm ET

The networks ought to be ashamed of themselves. Somehow these polls always seem to paint a picture of gloom and doom for Obama. How about some reposnible coverage for once. With all of the Gaffs and just plain wacky comments that have come from McCain himself there is no way this can be a close race.

Donna Canadian   July 30th, 2008 6:58 pm ET

Obama's trip should have changed the race!! Flitting around the world acting like you already are president , like you deserve it, and like it is in the bag,that kind of thinking cost Hillary the nomination. So it should cost Obama the presidency.
I thought you Americans would have learned something about voting in an arrogant A.H. Guess you didn't.

Latina for obama(NJ)   July 30th, 2008 6:55 pm ET

Thats right Brian from pittsburg.

OBAMA 08

Denise Groves   July 30th, 2008 6:55 pm ET

he said it wouldn't. the media paid more attention to it

joe kiloz   July 30th, 2008 6:54 pm ET

OK, lets get this right: Obama is against war, except he wants more brigades in Afghanistan to fight an enemy that is not present in Iraq. He tells us he will negotiate with our enemies. Why didn't he meet with Al Qaeda in Afghanistan ?
Then he says he will convice Europe to pony up their bodies. Did anyone get the impression that Sarkozy, Merkel, et al are going to give him a soul ?
Why didn't he go to Iran ?
I don't know that I trust Mr. Obama at all in defending all of us. His utterances are not backed with any meat that shows a crisp plan for victory.

EDW   July 30th, 2008 6:53 pm ET

1. McCain supported the drilling moratorium; now he’s against it.
2. McCain strongly opposes a windfall-tax on oil company profits. Three weeks earlier, he was perfectly comfortable with the idea.
3. McCain thought Bush’s warrantless-wiretap program circumvented the law; now he believes the opposite.
4. McCain defended “privatizing” Social Security. Now he says he’s against privatization (though he actually still supports it.)

Jon   July 30th, 2008 6:53 pm ET

Looking forward to 8 years of Obama.

RyanD.   July 30th, 2008 6:53 pm ET

POLLS POLLS POLLS POLLS

Who cares?

We're fired up and ready to go!

Obama 08'

therealist   July 30th, 2008 6:48 pm ET

Another historical bad omen for Obama..

Dave, Illinois   July 30th, 2008 6:47 pm ET

The adults are waking up and realizing that Obama is a grifter.

Lou R   July 30th, 2008 6:47 pm ET

I have come to believe that many persons do not see the leadership qualities of Obama being recognized in the polls. Its appearing people accept the reac/attackt form rather then an organized approach to addressing issues. Obama has shown bold leadership, a kind that is unfamiliar to many people. Unfortunate.

Canadian black man for Obama.   July 30th, 2008 6:45 pm ET

Once a man twice a child>This is Senator McCain second childish behavour. McCain is now behaving like a child with his ad attacks.

To compare a fello senator popularity as a celeb without real contrast with the celebrities in question, is very childish.

When will McCainflip flop goind to learn?

Ridgeway   July 30th, 2008 6:44 pm ET

Obama supporters. Perfect example of what happens when stupid people get together in large groups.

Brian   July 30th, 2008 6:39 pm ET

It did because I was undecided and now I think Obama has my vote!

Andy   July 30th, 2008 6:38 pm ET

Yeah, it was a great week for McCain. He had those impressive appearances at the supermarket reading from cue cards, and the interview with Katie Couric where he arrogantly insisted that Obama didn't know the recent history of Iraq. But - woops! - it was McCain who was wrong. Good for him CBS News edited out his mistake so his poll numbers wouldn't drop too far. After all, the most important thing is not to select the most qualified candidate, it's to generate the most advertising revenue.

California Voter   July 30th, 2008 6:34 pm ET

Why should his trip abroad change the race? You have to be an American citizen to vote for a President. And, thankfully, most Americans are not fooled into believing that Obama's trip abroad was anything more than great photo ops.

By the way, not everyone was impressed by his speech in Berlin among the crowd attending.

Not An Idiot   July 30th, 2008 6:30 pm ET

July 30th, 2008 4:17 pm ET

While Obama was visiting troops, meeting with heads of state, and giving an incredible speech in Berlin… the media at home was constantly attacking him and ignoring John McCain's many mistakes. And the polls are still even? What a surprise.

National polls mean nothing. The election will be decided by state-by-state electoral votes. If you look at all the state polls, Obama would win by a LANDSLIDE if the election was held today.
------------------------------
Right on!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

if you all notice most of the press coverage obama gets are negative .. Mc Cain ... most he gets are neutral

Terri, Independent Thinker from Texas   July 30th, 2008 6:29 pm ET

A better question would be "Did John McCain's trip abroad change the race?" Let's not forget the McCain went on a trip first then all but dared Obama to do the same. Once he did, McCain and camp starts whining about Obama receiving too much coverage. Geesh!!! Make up your minds.

Better yet, I recall seeing an article in which Obama himself felt that he'd drop in the polls during his visit abroad. Seems McCain's camp is whining for nothing.

Aaron Hussein   July 30th, 2008 6:29 pm ET

How do more people feel McCain would be better w/ the war in Iraq? I jsut don't get it. It was a war that never should have happened that McCain supported. Obama was right about moving forces over to Afghanistan. Obama was right about taking with Iran. Obama has been right again and again and again and again, ok you get the idea. McCain has been wrong. What are people smoking?

laura, CA   July 30th, 2008 6:28 pm ET

As a Dem, former Clinton supporter, it makes me sad and regretful that Obama is our presumptive nominee...Now, it is clear that his appeal has peaked. Unfortunetly, that means he won't increase support, but could lose it. He never appealed to me and when Clinton dropped out, it was clear that I wasn't the only one unhappy with the new choice (ie Obama's numbers weren't boosted).
With this new lack of a boost, Obama isn't reaching those that do not support him and seeing as how he has inundated the media with his face, speeches and rhetoric...what else can he do?

Uh-oh

Mommyof2   July 30th, 2008 6:26 pm ET

Um, actually, when you look at the electoral vote, it's not a close race at all. Almost every state will turn blue for Obama in November - including my OWN, Ohio!

New Voter for McCain   July 30th, 2008 6:25 pm ET

Well he makes this big deal out of a trip to Iraq to see what is happening off of ragging from McCain. So he goes over there like he is the president already and panders to the people.
Too bad he forgot, oops, dissed our wounded troops. What a guy. All talk and no action. All pandering, all arrogance.
I just HOPE he goes away and real soon.
He is dropping in the polls and he will continue.
MCCain 08

Donna from Colorado Springs   July 30th, 2008 6:24 pm ET

Obama called it when he returned. But, while overseas, McBush did nothing to help himself either. Instead of playing up his credentials, he was like a dog tied up in the hot sun......growling and angry. He is running scared, and attacking Obama is his way of fighting back. It's childish and I think that little Johnnie McBush should be put in timeout and sit in the corner until he learns how to play well with others.

SMB   July 30th, 2008 6:23 pm ET

A 7 point lead (51-44) is "unchanged" from a 5 point lead from last month? What is CNN's margin of error? Ten points?

And how does CNN come to the conclusion that the trip overseas made no difference if over 70% of those polled thought it was appropriate?

benvictor   July 30th, 2008 6:23 pm ET

Great, now what will he do next? Methinks the cameras and reporters were suckered once (shame on Obama) but will not be suckered twice (if so, shame on them). This cannot be good news, especially since everybody seems to run from him when approached to be his VP. As a Hillary Democrat, I am still disgusted with this whole outfit over their treatment of Hillary.

McBride, SLC, UT   July 30th, 2008 6:23 pm ET

Bottom line is Obama is ahead. Oh the media will try to distract from that anyway they can. Why are they not asking why McCain is not up after his trip abroad? Where is McCain's flag pin?????? Come on Media. Start talking about how the candidates stand on the issues and how this will affect Americans! Oh no. That would be too responsible.

Yemi   July 30th, 2008 6:22 pm ET

It went from a 5 point lead to a 7 point lead, and you believe nothing changed???

U guys are low

Dew5050   July 30th, 2008 6:22 pm ET

CNN,

Cut the crap. Obama did not go overseas to improve his standing with the unreliable polls. He achieved his goal, which was to show he could relate well with foreign leaders and that he has their confidence.

The last time I checked, mccain also went overseas too and nobody is talking about his trip's impact on the polls. Or do you want to tell me that polls are meant just for obama?

I know you won't publish this, but you must read it before you decide not to publish it. And that is my goal. Read it!

One last thing, out of all the major networks, cnn is the worst! Bravo, continue racing to the bottom. Very soon, the weather channel will overtake you!

Olivia   July 30th, 2008 6:22 pm ET

It took an awful lot of jet fuel paid for by the taxpayers and his supporters to get there and back.......not to mention the cost of refurbishing of the 747 with it's special O logo for Obama.
Wow! Not fair......that should have been worth at least a little teeny bump at home.

josh   July 30th, 2008 6:22 pm ET

Umbama's trip didn't change race... dispite the medias best attempts.

Clyde   July 30th, 2008 6:21 pm ET

Who's winning Mr. McCheese? I think not.

Obama 08.

Cindy Hussein McCain   July 30th, 2008 6:20 pm ET

The trip was not meant to change the race.

kim hussein taylor portland, oregon   July 30th, 2008 6:18 pm ET

we all know polls are nonsense! but i think all of the polls that have the race so close are fake, there is just no way it's that close. i think they're pretending it is cuz mccain is doing soo poorly and they dont want to disocurage repubs from voting in november.

i know of only one person who is even CONSIDERING voting for mccain, and even he says he will probably vote democrat in november for the first time, cuz mccain is such a disaster! and this is a guy who is a die-hard bushy who listens to rush and even QUOTES the bloated windbag! i dont know of a single person who is definitely voting for mccain.

Wayne   July 30th, 2008 6:17 pm ET

An Obama trip to Europe, the Middle East or to the moon will not change the fact that he is a black man with a funny name running in a country that is 70% white and has a poor history with regards to race relations.

How can a country that elected a bafoon Bush twice look at a brilliant and intellectual Obama and say he's risky?

MZ   July 30th, 2008 6:15 pm ET

HE MAY HAVE IMPRESSED THE GERMANS, BUT HE APPARENTLY DIDN'T IMPRESS THE " POLES ".

The Other Jon   July 30th, 2008 6:15 pm ET

The perception of Obama as a leader and executive still survives, and perception is key for any campaign.

Plus the trip gave McCain time to demonstrate exactly what kind of campaign he plans on running: one based on slinging mud, blatant lies, and devoid of substance.

Turnabout is Fair Play   July 30th, 2008 6:14 pm ET

The ONLY reason Obama's poll numbers haven't risen yet (they will very soon) is because the media have been on full tilt with Obama no matter what he does. Once they turn their spotlight on McLame and see just how bad his memory and gaffes and lies are getting, this will become a media circus with him as the clown and Obama's ratings will climb steadily as people see McStain for the old, tired, Geritol drinking warmongering fool that he is. Watch and see what happens after their first debate.

brenda   July 30th, 2008 6:14 pm ET

It is hard to believe that people still are falling for the scare tactics that the Republicans are famous for. It is time to grow up and not believe in those scary stories McCain and his buddies tell to get your vote and make a choice based on reality. The press worked hard to make sure that Obama didn't get a bump for his speech and travels. Where was that so-called "Liberal Press?" Yet another untrue myth the old cronies are always putting out there to get their way. I'm sick of it.

Vanessa   July 30th, 2008 6:13 pm ET

Sure it did. It showed the detractors that Obama would be welcomed in the world and that people across the globe would like to see him as the leader of the free world. Your polling is off.

JH   July 30th, 2008 6:12 pm ET

MSM was constantly asking why Obama can't break 50%. Now he's done it and the headline is 'Poll shows Obama's trip didn't change race'. No surprise though. Looks like CNN took McCain's media whining bait.

banderson   July 30th, 2008 6:12 pm ET

I hope this stuff backfires on all the conservatives. Their entire mantra is to deceive, misdirect, and propangandize everything, It doesn't matter if it is true or not.

Tejano   July 30th, 2008 6:11 pm ET

Campaigning abroad with the media in tow and nothing to show for it.
Welcome to the real world Obama. We the people don't give a crap about what Europe or the Middle East thinks about you. This contest is for the Presidency of the United States. We will NOT elect someone that we cannot trust with our nation.

McCain will triump on a single issue. He is America and was willing to die for it, That sirs is true Patriotism, not wearing a flag or claiming
to be a Patriot. Like McCain said we would rather him lose the election than concede defeat agains the Islamic Jihadists.

jimtranr in Oregon   July 30th, 2008 6:10 pm ET

Keep in mind that a good portion of that trip was taxpayer-funded and that two other senators, Chuck Hagel and Jack Reed, were along for the most important part of it (i.e., Afghanistan and the Middle East). And just how much did the media bother to air _their_ views about what they saw?

I really don't like the fact that I had to pay what amounts to a forced-against-my-will campaign contribution to "burnish" the foreign policy and national security image of the junior senator from Illinois.

Ekuwa   July 30th, 2008 6:09 pm ET

It wasn't about polls it was about building bridges with leaders.

shannon   July 30th, 2008 6:08 pm ET

I think that McCain's next ad is going to be that Obama is responsible for global warming.

Anonymous   July 30th, 2008 6:08 pm ET

No, it didn't change Race, Obama is still not Black.

Lorna, NY   July 30th, 2008 6:06 pm ET

This is because 48% of the people is not paying attention to their future. How stupid can Americans be? Do they love the way things have been for the past 8 years? Anything would be better than that.

Sammy   July 30th, 2008 6:06 pm ET

Obama's trip did have some political gains for him, just not enough to change peoples opinions much. If nothing else he didnt screw up (the hospital bruhaha depends on your POV about listening to the militarys admittedly minor concerns). But if McCain wanted to complain he should have focused on Obama's foreign policy positions and forget about how he appeared in front of the crowd and the canceled hospital visit. At least that way his arguments would have actually dealt with something important.

However, I do find it interesting that the military waited until the last minute to raise their concerns.

David in Illinois   July 30th, 2008 6:06 pm ET

It wasn't supposed to prompt a tectonic shift in the polls. It was a fact-finding mission, a chance for Sen. Obama to see firsthand and hear firsthand what's on the mind of our friends and allies. No matter what McCain would have you think, it wasn't purely political. Yes, it was political in the sense that Obama IS a presidential candidate, but that's about all. He didn't go over there just to score points in the polls.
McCain should go over there again. He might learn more about where the borders lie, and the difference between Sunni and Shia, among other things. But that would be a start for this "highly experienced" senator/statesman. Hah! Give me a break!!!!

Mike in MN   July 30th, 2008 6:06 pm ET

Obama finally goes on an way overdue trip, snubs the troops in Germany because he can't use the them for a political photo, says the US troops have performed magnificantly but at the same time the surge really has not made much of a difference and there are people who really thought he should get a bump in the polls? And Democrats say Republicans are stupid. Who was supposed to change their mind? Insulted Republicans? Troops supporting independents? Oh, I forgot maybe angry Hilliary supporters who say they are voting for McCain, that's it. Guess they aren't in Obama fantasy land yet.

therealist   July 30th, 2008 6:03 pm ET

CNN your message board has become a joke. Little more than a hate forum for drunken liberals at a progressive kool-aid party.

Maritza   July 30th, 2008 6:03 pm ET

Of course it didn't change race, that's a no brainer , why? the substance is not there,,the lack of real backbone knowledge of the issues that plague our country, Obama is the surface "candidate , the bright flash bulb on your face, beneath the over exposed exterior is just fog, millions are mislead by the fluff, if you listen carefully to his speeches , they are very general statements, most consist of simply what people want to hear, no examples of how he will fix things , no broad understanding of whatever he's rambling on about , just surface , generic words, back it up with the experience form executing change , and actual actions he's taken on any issue it simply does not exist, that's why he hates Town hall debates , only there we see how uninformed he really is , how he lacks tramendous experience, he gets by with the help of the liberal loonies on the far left , the media is his biggest base of support, don't you dare ask our boy any challenging or difficult questions , the hype is overkill , it's a shame . The issues we face in this country and abroad while we are in a war are far to important to leave it up to a frivolous candidate , too much power to hand over to someone so underqualified.

Maritza

Tanya   July 30th, 2008 6:03 pm ET

Trip to Iraq and Afganistan was completely appropriate.
The rest was a totally unnecessary, costly fluff.
Does average US voter care whom adoring Berlin crowds want for a President?
After all that screaming died down, it is still an economy, um.., Senator!

shadowgovernment   July 30th, 2008 6:02 pm ET

Hey look, kids, it's the trustworthy CNN Poll of Polls that CNN loves to mention every CNN minute it possibly CaNN!

~ the Shadow Knows

Chris Kirkpatrick   July 30th, 2008 6:02 pm ET

I'll be honest. Up until recently I had made up my mind for McCain. His war record and experience speak volumes. But we are voting for more than just a flashy resume, and McCain's recent actions helped reveal to me that despite his list of qualifications, his childish rantings about Obama's Middle East / Europe tour did a lot to spoil the image I had of him. On the flipside, Obama's trip showed me that he is willing to grow (his experience in these regions has been lacking) and that he would be willing to act diplomatically with those that have traditionally been our enemies. McCain, though, would simply continue with the status quo. In the race for the presidency, I have finally decided that Obama is going to cross the finish line (because McCain needs a walker!)

Barbara Campbell   July 30th, 2008 6:02 pm ET

How many of the cell-phone-only folks were polled?

Matt   July 30th, 2008 6:01 pm ET

McCain= ATTACK ATTACK BOMB

Yay for Socialism!   July 30th, 2008 6:01 pm ET

So what exactly did the pupil learn on his little field trip?

OHIO   July 30th, 2008 5:59 pm ET

THE MEDIA SHOULD GET THERE FACTS STRAIGHT BEFORE THEY REPORT NEWS.

I AM PISSED OFF ABOUT HOW THE MEDIA REPORTED THE INCORRECT STATEMENT OF MR.OBAMA TODAY.

IT WAS NOT AN OBAMA QUOTE MEDIA!!!!!!

Pam   July 30th, 2008 5:58 pm ET

McCain's next ad will be one blaming Obama for WWII, the HIndenburg explosion and Hurrican Katrina.

Obama 08 - rocking it baby   July 30th, 2008 5:58 pm ET

Too bad America Polls is not showing what the world knows.... that is Obama is the best canidate for America!

Felly   July 30th, 2008 5:58 pm ET

McSame is nothing but a cranky old man.

Eileen from Maine   July 30th, 2008 5:58 pm ET

"The collective media made sure of that when they coordinated with the McCain campaign to see what the theme of his attack ad was going to be (presumptuous and arrogant) and then made sure that every story for a week had that theme running through it. And then the media runs a poll asking people if the trip gave them that perception that Obama was arrogant. Imagine, they did get that perception...so does that mean the stories were true or does it mean the media created the perception.

And aren't you breaking campaign finance laws by running McCains fabricated attack ads over and over for free?

Jill in Chicago   July 30th, 2008 5:58 pm ET

I am not voting for Obama, because his ego is too big to take a strong opponent and join forces to have the most exciting democratic ticket in US (not world) history. NY times article today is estimating that 3rd party candidates will garner 7% of the vote from disgruntled republicans and democrats -calling it a protest vote. Nader only had 2% in 2000. I am not sure about Perot in 1992, however, it is inevitable that history will repeat here. It amazes me to hear Obama fans saying it will be a landslide, it was not a landslide on super tuesday, and he did not win the primary by a landslide. Too funny, can't wait for November.

No Intern Celebrities for President

Unshrub   July 30th, 2008 5:57 pm ET

Eight years ago McCain was a nice guy, someone I wanted to win the White House, now he has become a pig in politics. He is the reason we need someone like Obama, someone new. McCain has become more personal against Obama than any other Presidential candidate in American history. I now despise the pig. He does not deserve to be treated with the respect one should give a Presidential candidate. And I despise those who support him. For the record, I have never voted for a democrat for President since voting for Richard Nixon, but I will this time, and I am going to give him lots of money. It is time for change and McCain is demonstrating he is not the one to do it.

Beverly, NYC   July 30th, 2008 5:57 pm ET

Could it be because Obama's race hasn't changed. He's still black. If Edwards were the nominee and received the same positive embrace from European leader would anyone called him arrogrant, pompous etc. I think not.

Or could you be polling the same elderly homebounds with landlines and no computer? All these people see is someone who looks like them and someone who doesn't.

Whatever the percentage points quoted above he's still in front of McCain. The real poll is November 4th.

pam Eugene OR   July 30th, 2008 5:56 pm ET

COME ON CNN!
All I am trying to say is the American people are sick of McCain's tactics and they are backfiring on him.
Please post and stop putting all my comments in moderation. Texas Trail Dog always gets thru with all his vile comments and you can't post this???
What's up? You have to be really repugnant to get posted?

CF Texas   July 30th, 2008 5:56 pm ET

Too much fear and smear by the McBush campaign and by Mcshame himself, that's what affecting it. But we all know that Senator Obama had do make the trip just to show the world and the McBush that he could do the job and he is more capable than Mcshame. Look what happened in Germany and the rest of his trip. Soldiers were eager to meet him, and that's just the beginning of his campaign, imagined that. McBush had a campaign speech in Canada, and some other parts of the world and we did not here much about his welknown aroung the world. Look at Obama, first time he was perorming his foreign affairs, surprising the world. Obama for President!

Michele, Oregon   July 30th, 2008 5:56 pm ET

Why would anyone have more confidence in McCain's foreign policy credentials? They need to ask more specific questions, because the only thing we know about McCain's foreign policy is based on the strategies of war. Maybe they need to ask the population who they are more confident in to divert war by diplomacy and good policy? Who do they believe will elevate America's perception in the world?

I blame the media for their subtle leading questions that do not get to the heart of the matter. They pose the question to imply that foreign policy is equal to war because that is all we have known for so many years. And McCain knows how to win wars????? Another unsubstantiated claim/lie by McCain.

Ask more specific questions that give a little credit to the intelligence to the American people and you will see confidence levels rise for Obama and jumps in the polls.

Russell   July 30th, 2008 5:55 pm ET

What's up with CNN's negative spin on this story?

A month ago a poll shows Obama is up by 5 points.

Obama goes to Europe and gets tons of press.

In a poll taken in the days after he returns he's up by 7 points.

How is this bad news for Obama?

Steve   July 30th, 2008 5:55 pm ET

It's still a long, long way to Election Day. McCain has proven time and time again that he's only vaguely aware of what's going on outside the US, except maybe in Iraq, where his solution is to bomb, bomb, bomb for 100 years (typical fighter-pilot mentality). McCain certainly has entertainment value, and keeps me and many others laughing. If America votes him in to office (not likely), America gets what it asked for. It won't be good. For those that think McCain has a better grip on foreign relations/policy than Obama, just remember that McCain thinks like Bush. Bush has basically taken the US from a respected world power, to a bully-state, that is feared, mocked, and mistrusted by most other countries, enemy and ally alike. If this seems reasonable, then vote for McCain. Then pack your kid's clothes for boot camp. There will be war after war after war.

Polls as close as the ones CNN has been quoting really don't amount to a hill of beans. The REAL poll will come when the curtains in the voting booths close. I'm betting the entire budget that PUMA has to spend (well, OK that might only be $20.00 or so) on Obama.

Proud American   July 30th, 2008 5:55 pm ET

Give it time. America will come around. We dont like to rush into things.
Obama '08

Mike   July 30th, 2008 5:54 pm ET

Amazing Just goes to show that the country is about eqaully divided along political lines with their minds already made up. Anyone who can watch McWar smile and sing , bomb bomb bomb, bomb bomb Iran, and still regard him as the stronger candidate on foriegn affairs. Those people have drank the Bush Koolaid and nothing can reach them. It would be amusing,if the future of our country was not at risk.

Jeff Hollett   July 30th, 2008 5:53 pm ET

The seeds have been planted. Lasting impression will be more evident than first impression.

Belle2   July 30th, 2008 5:52 pm ET

Obama has already fooled all the people he can fool. Now it just depends who the rest of us believe to be worst candidate-McCain or Obama.

KP   July 30th, 2008 5:52 pm ET

Not a lot of response from the Obamites on this one, eh? Ha.

Mat-Raleigh NC   July 30th, 2008 5:51 pm ET

I don't understand why half this article is negative towards Senator Obama. He has a 7 point lead and has broken 50% support.. With those kinds of numbers the election would literally be a landslide. It seems CNN is intent on driving the narrative that the race is neck and neck when places like Pollster.com have Barack Obama already clinching the magic 270 electoral votes without counting toss up states!

Intelligence is ruling the world and ignorance is bearing the burden   July 30th, 2008 5:50 pm ET

So what if his visit didn't change the poles? Hopefully Obama's visit changes the world perception of us. The current administration is hell bent on imperialism. In fact why aren’t we impeaching this president? This guy has taken the constitution and thrown it out the window.

If he is not impeached we will pay dearly for this down the road. Bush has set a precedent that other presidents can use at any time. Putting all the spin to the side I always thought that our government’s main purpose is to protect it’s citizens while upholding the constitution.

Our freedoms have now been diminished and democracy has been trashed. Unless we elect a president that can restore our reputation and our rule of law here and abroad we have a bleek future ahead.

Elect Obama 08

mabel floyd   July 30th, 2008 5:50 pm ET

mcBush is so jealous he can not stand it. he says he would like to speak to the german people also, but do it as pres. oh–my dear man-fat chance. for one thing few people would come out to hear you speak–they already know you are more of the bush fiasco -

Daniel   July 30th, 2008 5:50 pm ET

It wasn't supposed to, he was ahead when he left, and he's still ahead by all but one of the polls.

Obama 08

wendy   July 30th, 2008 5:48 pm ET

Cable TV has everyone arguing and forgetting Obama's original theme. We must work together. It's getting buried deeper everyday under made up controversaries for cable TV to gain ratings.

Joe Daley, Chicago   July 30th, 2008 5:48 pm ET

0-bama has no substance, and it is too little too late.

Where has he been in the past 3.5 years, being the Chairman of the Senate committee overseeing NATO, which contributes diminishing troops now, resulting in the current disaster in Afghanistan. Now this phony candi blames others for Afghanistan. Had he done 1% of his job that he was elected to do, perhaps, the condition of Afghanistan would not have been this bad, which requires 0-bama to put more US troops in.

Where is his so-claimed sitting down skills to get troops from NATO?

GOP   July 30th, 2008 5:46 pm ET

Obama has been an underdog and will always be.

Obama 08

jr   July 30th, 2008 5:46 pm ET

So, after all of the hoopla the magical mystery tour/media circus only mattered to the europeans who don't have a vote and absolutely don't have a clue?

Wake up America! Obama, is not the answer we seek. He's just another empty suit politician who happens to speak well and provide good photo OP's He's just a puppet on a string being posed by his handlers in Chicago, the corrupt Daley machine.

Ms. White   July 30th, 2008 5:46 pm ET

what the TV networks and other cable networks should do is an online national poll. That way we can see how people would vote ( if they are honest about their choice). Not these random samples that are not a true representative view of our great country.

Willy   July 30th, 2008 5:46 pm ET

Of course not. We all know he's a puppet for the DNC.

Scott   July 30th, 2008 5:45 pm ET

I'm just tired of polls. Since when did public opinion morph into the big bad survey monster? The real one is coming in November & hopefully I'll get the bestest, big-boy gift a birthday boy could want. Obama '08

S. Denice   July 30th, 2008 5:44 pm ET

No surprise here. Not many would expect his numbers to rise. I, for one, feel that the closer we get to the reality that a black man can possibly occupy the highest position in the USA, the more opposition he'll face. I have heard some really despicable things being said about Senator Obama due to his racial background. And in the words of Michelle Obama, they are just downright mean. Even if Senator Obama were to effectively reduce tensions in the Middle East, stabilize the economy, bring our troops home, find alternative fuel, unite the races, and restore America to her splendor and greatness, he would still be hated by those who can't get past the color of his skin. This is truly a sad time in American history and politics. In so many ways we are a nation of idiots. We would rather see a rapidly aging, can't-remember-important-stuff candidate become President just because he's blonde and blue eyes. So sad, so sad...

Tony   July 30th, 2008 5:44 pm ET

When will Barack asked William Jefferson, the man with $90,000 in his freezer to resign?

MikeH   July 30th, 2008 5:44 pm ET

I don't believe the poll. McCain had a string of screw-ups while Obama was on his tour. Obama's only excess was the Berlin speech, a bit of a circus, but otherwise he did very well.

Obama continues to do well while McCain continues to flub, example: concerning the 16 month troop withdrawal plan McCain says "I didn't use the word 'Timetable'" cue the video of McCain saying timetable three times. McCain says "I won't raise taxes", then McCain says Payroll taxes increases are "On the table" quickly followed by one of his campaign staff saying they weren't.

Ancillary polls on trust with the economy, civil liberties, etc. are all very positive for Obama, so the narrow set of polls that don't show any change, in my opinion, are being guided by operatives infiltrated into polling organizations, to corrupt how the poll is conducted, or corrupt how the data is presented, to provide a sort of herd newspeak for the sheeple among us who can be swayed by what they think the group is doing. The other factor is that the pollsters are conducting telephone polling. Let them try cell phone polling and see how the results come out.

Of course the final say will be with the voting machines. Investigation of Diebold machines used in Florida and some of the strange district vote tabulations there in 2000 gives me convincing evidence that the vote was rigged there. Unless there is a paper trail, a vote reciept, the vote could be stolen again unless we are vigilant.

Ex Dem   July 30th, 2008 5:44 pm ET

that's because americans see BO for what he is....all talk no action.

JohnS   July 30th, 2008 5:43 pm ET

Barack just broke the 50% mark. 51% for OBAMA.

A psychological milestone that will cause the GOP and McCain to spin their loosed wheels even more.

McCain,- explain your policies and stop talking about OBAMA.

Marie in California   July 30th, 2008 5:42 pm ET

Obama's sensationalist entertainment tour of the Middle East and Europe was, I guess, to develop instant foreign policy credentials (just add water and stir), while simultaneously playing to the mas*ses.

I read from foreign newspapers....in Germany the crowd was FAR less than 200K and everyone seen in photos of the event was very young, lured there by Obama-paid free food, free beer, and free music by a favorite Reggae performer named Patrice and a hughly popular German band named Ray Monn. Only after that did Obama address the crowd, after they were fully sated with beer, brats and music. No wonder they cheered him! After all, he paid for the party!

Helllooooo! This was just another set-up crowd! Hollywood and Madison Avenue at their best! Huge photo ops!

I'm glad Obama didn't get a bounce in the polls after his American Idol tour. I think people are starting to get wise to his ways. Obama is sensationalist but without substance......and he can say nothing in the most eloquent manner!

Was for Hillary, now for McCain!

PUMA

J.T. Jackson in Michigan   July 30th, 2008 5:42 pm ET

I am a Obama supporter along with mostly everyone that I know. I knwo for a fact that the polls are deceiving in this election because most of my friends and family only use a cell phone or have restricted home phone numbers. Obama has the new generation of of voters behind him which includes mostly cell phone users and these pollsters don't call cell phones. I am confident that Obama will win. More people are seeing McCain for what he really stands for. He will say or do anything to win. All he does is attack Barack and follow his lead. He is against womens rights and the GI bill. So how much does he really care about the brave men and women he talks about so frequently?? Actions speak louder then words. The only words McCain manage to speak these days are attacks against Obama. More people want change and don' t want to continue down the same path we are on. Do a e-mail poll or a internet poll and see what the numbers will be then. More seniors support McCain and they are the main ones at home during the day to answer a call from a pollster on a land line phone.

OBAMA 2008

Debby   July 30th, 2008 5:41 pm ET

Well the trip was good but to over publicized and this might have killed the poll numbers.

J. S.   July 30th, 2008 5:41 pm ET

He should have visited our wounded–most Americans support the troops even if some do not support the War

LYNETTE IN CA   July 30th, 2008 5:40 pm ET

The trip was not to bump his point spread (although it did), it was more to show that leaders of other countries are willing to sit down with him and for him to listen and gain insight. The bumps in point spread will come. No matter what, they will come after the first debate. I can hardly wait for that!

Kim, KY   July 30th, 2008 5:40 pm ET

That's too bad...I was hoping that it would wake up the American people to what he really is. He strutted around like he was already the Prez and then comes home and makes a statement that "he is what Americans have been waiting for" and so on...Give me a break!!! We do need a change but he certainly isn't it...GO MCCAIN...I can't believe I am saying that but with Obama as the Dem it has to be McCain. I was hoping to see his poll #'s drop tremendously...And for all you Obamamaniacs...keep your sarcasim. I think it's so funny to see all the negative comments you guys write when Hillary was supposed to be the negative one and have the negative supporters....MCCAIN 08, HILLARY we'll wait for you!!!

Tony   July 30th, 2008 5:39 pm ET

There are limits on the lead any candidate can have that are imposed by the fact that people give their support based on party line-thinking. So a poll within the general public may not be a good indicator on how well Obama is doing. Obviously this trip was a success and was viewed very favorably abroad. As for McCain he would have found fault with anything.

Chuck   July 30th, 2008 5:39 pm ET

Typical rock star. 15 minutes are up Barry.

SRM - DC   July 30th, 2008 5:38 pm ET

The real success of this trip will show up later after people internalize it.

The media always look for an immediate "bounce" which is usually meaningless anyway.

Greg from Big Island   July 30th, 2008 5:38 pm ET

Polls don't mean a whole lot. I think it is for the media to have something to talk about. I think after Labor Day the polls will indicate something. I look for McCain to jump over Obama in August and early September and they will go back to being even. Obama is being hit negatively more and negative ads effect him more. The Olympics are coming up and people won't care until the Olympics and Conventions are over. Negative ads may heat up Obama's base if McCain gets nasty. Obama wins if young people pile up at the polls. McCain wins if angry Hillary Clinton supporters back him in droves.

Hanging with Hillary   July 30th, 2008 5:37 pm ET

I don't know who they are polling, but the trip helped ramp up my support for Obama. I was impressed by his speech in Berlin and I'm now more willing to donate to a campaign I had vowed never to fund.

I am quickly losing any interest in McCain...he appears to be very out of touch with reality here at home AND in the Middle East. I am not impressed as I hear him make mistake after mistake while claiming to be the better informed candidate.

Obama comes off as being more presidential and having a more open mind to accepting new information. I like his "citizen of the world" approach as opposed to McCain's goal of American hegemony.

Yes, Obama's trip abroad made a difference in my mind–are you listening CNN?

Naomi, Texas   July 30th, 2008 5:37 pm ET

Didn't hurt him either.

Billy. LA   July 30th, 2008 5:37 pm ET

There's new stuff coming out on Michelle-should cause quite a stir.

Rick in Az   July 30th, 2008 5:36 pm ET

These McCain-iacs are starting to scare me. Most Americans are disgusted with the way this country has been run for the last 7 1/2 years but these McCain-iacs seem to be falling for the same kind of campaining that put us where we are at now. Here is Arizona Obama is still leading McInsane in the latest poll and Obama also out raised McCrazy in donations (McLunatic's donations came from corporations and Obama's came from the Citizens in Arizona). The GREAT John McCain that alot of republicans are posting about is not the same McCain that a lot of us Az know. We are suffering the same problems as the rest of the country and McCain seems to not even be able to show up to vote in the senate. Showing the Citizens of Az that his Presidential race is more important than our problems. I'm sure this won't get posted but, thought CNN and the McCain-iacs would at least concider how he is viewed in the state he represents..

ricky   July 30th, 2008 5:35 pm ET

Well the media been whining all week why obama hasn't hit the 50 point mark well hopfully this will shut them up....

MikenMississippi   July 30th, 2008 5:35 pm ET

The polls probably reflect the idea that Hillary is not even being considered for the Vice President. Obama had better wake up and see the division lines forming if Hillary is not the VP choice! We Hillary supporters are watching and waiting on this decision before we make our final decision. McCain is looking better and better by the hour!

Jim   July 30th, 2008 5:35 pm ET

Man, I thought after shooting two hoops and spending close to four hours "on the ground", this trip would have been a game-changer...I mean, what else could he possibly do to demonstrate he is ready to lead us to where we need to be – to not live in despair, but joy, with cloudless skies and Asian, Black, Whites and all folks holding hands and becoming the America we have envisioned for all these years, where everyone gets a fair chance and no one has to suffer the inequities of life...really, what else does he have to do?

Do it yourself   July 30th, 2008 5:34 pm ET

Maybe someone should tell Barack that Gemans aren't registered voters!

Doris,Memphis,TN   July 30th, 2008 5:33 pm ET

Oh yes it did! The trip showed Americans what a great President
Obama would be and how much he is loved around the world. It
also made John McCain, Tucker Bounds, and Carly Fiorina a

"CAMPAIGN OF WHINERS"

Mary WA   July 30th, 2008 5:33 pm ET

CNN : you focus on all the negitives about Obama's trip. When many pundits were saying positive things about it you choose to interview and report mostly the negitive responses. I'm not suprised the poll don't show an increase with your biased reporting.

Sean   July 30th, 2008 5:33 pm ET

I am truly starting to question the polls that we've been seeing. Regardless of who you support, they just don't add up.

Nia Hussein- Phoenix, AZ   July 30th, 2008 5:32 pm ET

I wasn't ment to...Only the media was spinning that story line

Danel   July 30th, 2008 5:32 pm ET

People are NOT ready to elect Obama. They'll find some ways to bring him down. Too bad.

older white woman in rural wa   July 30th, 2008 5:32 pm ET

I think 'presumptuous' has become the new 'uppity' and CNN's stories on this issue (particularly the recent report on The Situation Room) show just what kind of network CNN has become. Fox Light. Pushing the McCain camp's talking points.

BJGT   July 30th, 2008 5:31 pm ET

While Obama gets foreign leaders on board and meets with important economic leaders, McCain launches ads that say he has no substance.

Mike from L.A.   July 30th, 2008 5:31 pm ET

It's ok, if it didn't change polls. What it shows is that rest of the world is ready to love America again, that is if we do the right thing in electing Obama.

v   July 30th, 2008 5:31 pm ET

mccain definition of success will never exist for he defines success by level of security not levels of balance...the war will be a lost cause as well as the lives of the soldiers who dies in action as what it seems to be coming from mccain..the surge of militray combative presence is invetiablty reality in decreasing violence but is far from balance ..this only temporary fix to the problem not pernamt stabilty to growing country

Bill in DC   July 30th, 2008 5:31 pm ET

These polls don't mean anything. Of course Obama's trip overseas will be an immense help to him.

The problem with these polls is that they don't reflect the new wave of voters planning to vote in November.

These polls only attract the same old tired respondents. The model/method for polling needs to change.

Stephina   July 30th, 2008 5:30 pm ET

Obama's trip was a complete waste of tax dollars. Because he took 2 Democratic Senators along with him and they stated they were on "a"fact finding mission", the trip was paid by US Tax Payers.

McCain in 2008

Tony, Miami   July 30th, 2008 5:30 pm ET

I don't think the trip was to change the polls results but essentially to prove McCain and his supporters wrong about foreign policy and he did prove that he is better than Mcwhatever.

McCain is still Running?   July 30th, 2008 5:30 pm ET

Remember just two months ago when we were fed daily that Clinton had a chance in the contest when the math did not add up, doesn't this McCain within striking distance sound familiar. Lets go state by state and see where the GOP stands.

CP   July 30th, 2008 5:30 pm ET

CNN,

Your polls mean nothing. The only that matters is the one taking place on Nov 4

A Woman In California For Obama   July 30th, 2008 5:29 pm ET

Of course not. What else is news?

JB   July 30th, 2008 5:29 pm ET

Polls in July mean..... oh yeah, NOTHING.

This race was over a long time ago.

Obama 08

Elinn   July 30th, 2008 5:29 pm ET

America, please...do the right thing this time...vote for the guy who you know is telling the truth...

if you cannot figure this one out by now, i guess i will see you here 4 years from now with the same complaints.

Lets give Barack a big win, a landslide, lets do it and turn this whole country into one color..BLUE.....problems sloved. Think

Jenna   July 30th, 2008 5:29 pm ET

I dont think it is looking very good for the nominee....

jenkins   July 30th, 2008 5:29 pm ET

i like both mccain and obama but still struggling to understand how Obama is qualified to be president. I would vote for him if he actually had something in his background that was amazing. I simply cannot find that "thing". I also can't find much that I dislike about Obama. He's a very likeable person. So is John McCain.

Dayahka   July 30th, 2008 5:29 pm ET

Nothing much is going to change in the polls until after the Beijing Olympics and the conventions begin–and VP selections are made.

Veterans for Obama   July 30th, 2008 5:28 pm ET

Your right Obama cares for our Veterans and troops. Just look at his voting record compared to McShame's. The major Veterans groups give Barack a "B" rating and McShame a "D" rating! Please America don't vote for McCain! I was a Republican that is now an Independant, voting for Barack Obama!

Shari, NY   July 30th, 2008 5:28 pm ET

This is because right now domestic matters are on the minds of most Americans. Economic pain is being felt so the immobility of the polls as regards this trip is not a surprise. Time will tell.

McCain is still Running?   July 30th, 2008 5:27 pm ET

Nothing changed, Obama is still comfortably in the lead and the obvious choice and McCain and his blind following are clueless

Down with Obama   July 30th, 2008 5:27 pm ET

Duh!!! Empty suit...is an empty suit. Doesn't matter where Obama is....Obama is still an empty suit!!!

lupercal   July 30th, 2008 5:27 pm ET

John Mccain. All Surge, All the Time(Horizon).

by the way did anyone see bob dole's ad with britney spears back in 96? look it up on youtube. apparently, john mccain is obssessed about britney as well. um. interesting. Apparently, she gives him a surge.

Chris   July 30th, 2008 5:26 pm ET

IT's a SEVEN POINT LEAD and Obama is over 50 % and that's your headline CNN????

E.C.Coleman   July 30th, 2008 5:26 pm ET

HA! HA! HA! Of course the trip didn't change Obama's ARROGANCE! He's such an Egotist, and so Self-Centered that Voters are Finally Realizing that Barck Hussein Obama is all talk, pie in the sky, and totally unqualified to be in the campaign. All Obama did on his trip was make a fool of himself and show his total inexperience to the World! That the selfish jerk didn't take the time or make the time to visit the troops in the hospital on his trip is unforgiveable.

Realistic   July 30th, 2008 5:25 pm ET

If Obama wins, it will be Obama, Michelle, Pulosi, and Reed running our wonderful country. If this isn't the most horrific scenario for leadership of our great U.S.A. I can't imagine anything worse! His trip was a pathetic joke! See Real Clear Politics-he's only 2 points ahead now. In November it will be McCain by a huge landslide!

Doris,Memphis,TN   July 30th, 2008 5:25 pm ET

Oh yes it did! The trip showed Americans what a great President
Obama would be and how he loved around the world. It also made
John McCain, Tucker Bounds,and Carly a "Campaign of Whiners".

Sacto Joe   July 30th, 2008 5:25 pm ET

"Oil rose more than $4 a barrel on Wednesday after U.S. government data showed an unexpected drop in gasoline stocks as suppliers facing weak consumer demand cut production and imports."

Well, there it is, folks. We slow down and drive less, the inventory of gasoline increases, prices drop, and the refineries cut production. That in turn bumps the price of oil, which in turn will drive prices up.

WHERE'S THE OUTRAGE??! And where are the Republicans who should be investigating this blatant price manipulation? Oh, that's right: They, and McCain, are in the pockets of the oil barons.

Ron democrat turned independent   July 30th, 2008 5:25 pm ET

will obama please explain why his views on christmas and birthdays are the same as muslims. re the people's magazine interview

Leslie, MA.   July 30th, 2008 5:25 pm ET

Well, he went on his presidential trip and guess what? He still couldn't say anything but hope and unity. I'm getting tired of his words with no substance. Seems the rest of the world feels the same.
pity................

Raymond Duke   July 30th, 2008 5:25 pm ET

If anything I would say that this trip hurt him. I know it did with me and my family members. Especially when he said people of the world now is our time. Throw in his pandering and acting showing what a phoney he really is. Lost him 5 votes in this house.

Texun   July 30th, 2008 5:24 pm ET

McCain's latest ad blames Obama for the California earthquake and for global warming. As the New York Times editorial observed today, McCain has restaffed his operation with former subordinates of Karl Rove, hence the strongly negative attack stance he has been taking. Here's more evidence that McCain would be McBush! He has the same handlers.

Nate   July 30th, 2008 5:24 pm ET

It's freightening really. You have a man who has the ability to change our standing in the world, who can reach across the ocean and influence the people of the world and all these people can say is he's arrogant and presumptive. It's scary that McCain can suggest that he's is naive and doesn't understand the world when now McCain has adopted his idea that we need to withdraw troops from Iraq- and people are concerned about Obama's cancelled trip to the troops in Germany. It's also troubling that people fail to recognize that Obama shares the experiences of average Americans growing up because of his name.

Don't get me wrong I don't believe Obama's the messiah, but compared to McCain and what he can do for this country it's not even close.

If you want an example of arrogance how about boasting that you "know how to win wars." This coming from a POW who never led or commanded any troops and has no war victory to boast about.

v   July 30th, 2008 5:23 pm ET

if you dnt vote john mccain than the soldiers who died will die in vain because mccain way or no way..mccains attempt to court soldeir votes..mccain defines the surge a success because of the level of security and increased american combatives in middle east toward terorism.. Yet it not a success because any country economy is not balanced nor is the new government taken its role to bringsing stabilty in the region...john mccain judgment in his support with a wreckelss administration and closeness of this war with administration should not be overlooked nor distracted from

Ron democrat turned independent   July 30th, 2008 5:23 pm ET

obama can't even fill his suit properly (whats with the padded shoulders and shirt collars that are to big) how is he going to fill the shoes of a president. even Bush looks good in his clothes obama looks like a poor relative who had to borrow a suit.

v   July 30th, 2008 5:23 pm ET

if you dnt vote john mccain than the soldiers who died will die in vain because mccain way or no way..mccains attempt to court soldeir votes..mccain defines the surge a success because of the level of security and increased american combatives in middle east toward terorism.. Yet it not a success because any country economy is not balanced nor is the new government taken its role to bringsing stabilty in the region...john mccain judgment in his support with a wreckelss administration and closeness of this war with administration should not be overlooked nor distracted from

tony   July 30th, 2008 5:23 pm ET

I think most people have made up their minds who to vote for so you're not going to see much changing of minds by anything either candidate does or says. But I do think the Obama trip to Germany was meant to make him look more like John Kennedy and less then the John Kerry clone he is looking more and more to be. I must say to me his trip did look like he was already elected, and in spite of the witty quips of the Obama supporters, they know McCain has been left for dead many times, so any victory lap by their candidate is a bit premature, and if he(Obama) loses it won’t be because Americans are racist it will be because he is a party hack in a well pressed suit.

MsCiara   July 30th, 2008 5:22 pm ET

This just in McCain has a new ad blaming Barack for Global warming and the high rate of cancer in America !!! and for the arguing between the ladies on "The View"..

Citizen Ruth   July 30th, 2008 5:22 pm ET

John McCain is a lousy candidate and Barack Obama has so much potential. Hw this race plays out is anyone's guess. America being as it is, may just succeed in destroying its best hope for a timely shift toward the generation who should be leading us. McCain is not what we need but I wouldn't be surprised if he got elected. If so, I may consider an extended trip to Canada.........

v   July 30th, 2008 5:22 pm ET

if you dnt vote john mccain than the soldiers who died will die in vain because mccain way or no way..mccains attempt to court soldeir votes..mccain defines the surge a success because of the level of security and increased american combatives in middle east toward terorism.. Yet it not a success because any country economy is not balanced nor is the new government taken its role to bringsing stabilty in the region...john mccain judgment in his support with a wreckelss administration and closeness of this war with administration should not be overlooked nor distracted from

TOM   July 30th, 2008 5:22 pm ET

i would like to see a poll of how many people, pay attention to polls, and if there vote. is influinced by them

John G   July 30th, 2008 5:22 pm ET

Big news there CNN. A weeks vacation on the tax payers dollar doesn't change the fact that Barry doesn't know jack about foreign relations.

All the trip proved is that he is willing to give a speech (which we already knew because he never shuts up)

Anonymous   July 30th, 2008 5:22 pm ET

if you dnt vote john mccain than the soldiers who died will die in vain because mccain way or no way..mccains attempt to court soldeir votes..mccain defines the surge a success because of the level of security and increased american combatives in middle east toward terorism.. Yet it not a success because any country economy is not balanced nor is the new government taken its role to bringsing stabilty in the region...john mccain judgment in his support with a wreckelss administration and closeness of this war with administration should not be overlooked nor distracted from

BJ, Texas   July 30th, 2008 5:22 pm ET

Why so shocked that it didn't make a difference in the polls. Who cares what the Euros think. It's the American people who will decide our next Pres not Europe. It just shows that we Americans don't care for anyone else's opinion. It's our choice (our vote) that matters not theirs.

Phrank   July 30th, 2008 5:22 pm ET

As recently as the beginning of the week, your "Poll of Polls" included only "Registered Voter Polls" Is that still the case? An examination of all national polls on Real Clear Politics shows except for a couple of days on the Gallup tracking poll no Registered voter poll has been above the 45% for McCain you had last time. So you must be including "likely voter" polls. If you want top look at a likely voter poll, why have you flushed the Research 2000 Poll down the memory hole with the rest of the Privatised Propaganda Ministry. You people are really pieces of work, sacrificing the remaining shreds of your tattered integrity to preserve the illusion that McCain is still in it. You really think that drivelling spewing old gaffer is good for the country? Actually, it's fine with me, because with his honest average of 40% he is below the floor for any Republlican should get running against an AA. You guys will not be able to push this dead horse over the finish line,

Necie in OKC   July 30th, 2008 5:21 pm ET

The trip wasn't about gaining in the polls. Sen Obama gained more insight into our foreign relations (insight he can't via a phone call). I consider it a wise move and it only strengthens my belief that he is the right candidate to lead us.

NEVEROBAMA   July 30th, 2008 5:21 pm ET

ALL I HAVE TO SAY IS HA HA!!

I CAN'T WAIT TO SEE HIM GO DOWN!!!

Burt in Texas   July 30th, 2008 5:21 pm ET

Obama's fate is in his hands. Without Hillary, he may well lose. With Hillary it's a landslide. For me, an Obama ticket without Hill means a vote for McCain in 08, which is a vote for Hill in '12. At this moment, it's about who is most qualified – nothing else, for this Democrat.

wycliffe, NJ   July 30th, 2008 5:20 pm ET

the trip was not ment for short term effect but long term. McCain will nolonger claim that obama never went to iraq, never met general patreus, .....Currently obama is offering specifics on the issues and seems alittle boring and that will change when the undergroung work is done.

Bill, Covington   July 30th, 2008 5:20 pm ET

Obama and all it's followers is a frigging BORE

Laidetea   July 30th, 2008 5:20 pm ET

McGranpa and GOP absolutely have nothing to throw at Obama. They're reaching for stuff that doesn't even pertain to the Presidential race. It's more back stabbing insults.

Obama has not even made a insult or a negative comment about McGramps. Obama diplomacy is outstanding.

Lesley   July 30th, 2008 5:19 pm ET

Proof that Obama needs someone with military history and experience in national security issues to round out the ticket. Also proof that McCain's negative advertising is doing him little good. Americans thankfully are not falling for the smear tactics. The polls also show that the number one concern is the economy so the military thing is not at the top of people's lists. John McCain is not presidential material overall.

Doug   July 30th, 2008 5:18 pm ET

Is it only me, or is the labeling of Obama by the McCain campaign and main stream media as "arrogant" and "presumptious" just code words for "uppity"?

Nicolas   July 30th, 2008 5:18 pm ET

I am challenging the networks let the canidates know that this society is not foolish. Stop the negative ads and bring on the issues accompanied with policies. Therefore the above useless piece would not be taking up space on this webpage. Leave the above to FOX and the far far left media. Thank you

Blueray98   July 30th, 2008 5:18 pm ET

Of course the polls won't change. To use some now famous words:

The democratic party threw us down the tubes and they don't think we'll turn and vote McCain?

Well I've got news for you -

JOHN MCCAIN WILL BE OUR NEXT PRESIDENT.

Jack   July 30th, 2008 5:18 pm ET

Why would going to Europe and the Middle East changes your race? And why did we have to poll people to see if he is still black?

Jeb   July 30th, 2008 5:17 pm ET

MMN, how does your comment have anything remotely to do with this story?

jfs Memhis, Tn   July 30th, 2008 5:17 pm ET

Who cares about these polls ??? They tell us nothing.....other than the fact that you'all are polling people who do not listen to the news channels nor pick-up a newspaper....too much energy and mind skills. How's about conducting a weekly poll from CNN, MSMBC, FOX, USA TODAY< THE WALL STREET JOURNAL, NEW YORK AND LA TIMES, CHICAGO TRIBUNE, SPANISH NEWS AGENCIES AND STATIONS etc. THEN DO AN AVERAGE. STAY OFF THE PHONES......DEAL WITH THINKING MAJORITIES, AND TAKE SOME TIME DEVELOPING PERTINENT INFORMATION.

nathan   July 30th, 2008 5:17 pm ET

I've heard those polls were actually taken before Obama's trip.

TMc   July 30th, 2008 5:16 pm ET

Come on CNN! Reveal the methodology of the poll! Probably 42% Democrat, 20% Republicans, and 22% African Americans out of 600 people of neither only registered or only likely voters.

Typical CNN poll feeding their flock of sheep.

Paris   July 30th, 2008 5:16 pm ET

The polls are not changed because the whole trip was a publicity stunt and we see right thorough it.

Unlike what self-centered Obama and his elitist camping thinks we the people are very smart and know a phony when we see one.

Tom   July 30th, 2008 5:16 pm ET

Smart Americans saw thru it. His Germany 200,000 campaign event was with free food and beer. They had two popular bands play before and after his speech. Just like the Oregon festival that had bands. Kerry drew 45,000 at the same Oregon festival in 2004. So I am not impressed. I wonder if that is how he is going to draw 75,000 at his Denver coronation. And then he snubbed the injured troops in Germany because he was not allowed a photo op.

Texas Voter   July 30th, 2008 5:16 pm ET

Just so you all know, Jimmy Carter had a 30 point lead over his opponent at this stage of his presidential race.

Talk is easy, action is hard. Americans will not be fooled by Obama's empty rhetoric.

Bob   July 30th, 2008 5:15 pm ET

It was great to see an American leader be thoughtful, gracious, and dignified on a world stage. Obama gave me a great sense of pride. The polls won't change until the debates, where McCain will appear unprepared, confused, disgruntled, and woefully old in comparison to Obama.

Joe Reg   July 30th, 2008 5:15 pm ET

Fear or no fear the people will not follow the repubs this year.

If you have good food we will buy it but if you have dog food, sorry not sellable. Republicans are going downhill.

Obama 08/12.

ReaganDem84   July 30th, 2008 5:15 pm ET

tick tock tick tock

BO should be ahead by 25+ points.

LOOOOL!!

I would suggest some oil for those squeaky hinges on the door that America is showing Dr. No, but he doesn't have any!!

Edwin K C   July 30th, 2008 5:14 pm ET

Hey,

What matters is that he has the respect of world leaders and this means Americans will be viewed positively and will not be subject to flag burning , street protests ....etc........which has been the case in the last 8 years of GWB Mediocrity and tough talk.

4 years for Macbush will be a disaster to Ameican interest Everywhere.

Obama/ Democrat for Life

James Hussein, SC   July 30th, 2008 5:14 pm ET

Why does CNN support the Republican Party sooooo much?

Mike Philly   July 30th, 2008 5:13 pm ET

The media kept questioning whether the overseas trip will change the polls. And now that they know the answer, they are reporting that no, it didn't. During none of this important coverage, did they mention that **no one expected it to change the polls.**

For the love of God, CNN, do something useful. How doing some polls in the close/battleground states so we can get a feel for the electoral college standings? 100 days out, **that** would be polling information we could chew on.

Obama/Sebelius   July 30th, 2008 5:12 pm ET

Obama/Sebelius 08!!!!!!!!

2 Democrats that beat Republican BUTT!!!!!!

Unlike Hillary that just licks it!!!

Jeff in Illinois   July 30th, 2008 5:12 pm ET

If 52% of Americans think McCain would do better than Obama on Iraq, then 52% of those polled need to start paying more attention to the world around them.

John McCain doesn't even know the difference between Sunni and Shiite. He also believes that Pakistan borders Iraq. The man essentially knows nothing about Iraq.

KE   July 30th, 2008 5:12 pm ET

Senator Barack Obama is an internationalist first and an American second.

Frank   July 30th, 2008 5:12 pm ET

The question is not whether people decide that Obama would be better at foreign affairs than McCain. It is whether they decide he will be good enough.

The Obama number is static just below 50% because the genuine independents are waiting to see if he is plausible in the roles of commander-in-chief and chief diplomat. If they decide that he is, the general preference for a generic Democrat will be sufficient.

In this sense, it isn't a commander-in-chief "test" so much as a "threshold." With issues of lower salience (in the face of overwhelming concern about the economy), that is all the more discerning people are willing to be.

Trollmaster   July 30th, 2008 5:12 pm ET

How can Americans possibly think McCain can handle Iraq better when he was one of the biggest supporters of this mistake of an invasion in the first place.

"I'm John McCain, and if you elect me, I'll pull out the car I helped drive into a ditch"

Angle   July 30th, 2008 5:11 pm ET

I was told when I ran the first time that you never mention the compitition by name Let them pay for thier oun pomotion and name recognation. John , your doing a great job for Obama

REG in AZ   July 30th, 2008 5:11 pm ET

I suspect that Barack Obama is an enigma right now, a promising one but none the less an unknown and even startling quantity. As people experience him, get to see his grasp of things, learn his true positions and understand the quality that is not only in his words but that the words truly represent his values and beliefs, then they will be able to relax and identify with him. In the mean time, McCain likely will be stagnated and if anything, just slip some. Change is what we need and what we want but change scares people and they have to become at ease with it.

mayahh   July 30th, 2008 5:11 pm ET

It is easy to see from the TOPICS that there is some JEALOUSY going on pertaining to Senator OBAMA , jealousy is a mental uneasiness toward a rival, one that displays envy toward the success and goodfortune of others, Senator OBAMA shall rise up and no force can touch him,,, IT IS THE SUPERNATURAL FORCE, THAT LEADS HIM..

TheC   July 30th, 2008 5:11 pm ET

Yep.... the race didn't change. Obama was leading before he went over and is still leading now that he is back. That McCain has chosen in July to already go all negative-all the time shows you that the McCain internal polls must show Obama with even bigger leads.

Chris N.   July 30th, 2008 5:11 pm ET

I have been undecided (I am a moderate Independent) so far, but when the mud-slinging starts – the candidate pushes me away.

Obama's positive message is pulling me in closer and closer everyday. I was worried he was a little too liberal for my taste, but he has shown better character in this race then McCain has. McCain really is looking like Bush to me now and our country cannot afford anymore of it!

How I miss the McCain of 2000!

Obama is Unbeatable   July 30th, 2008 5:11 pm ET

Hillary said she could beat Obama too, and look how that turned out for her lol.

McBush doesn't stand a chance!!!!

McCain should retire now, and give up before he ends up Bankrupt like Hillary!!!!

Randy   July 30th, 2008 5:10 pm ET

It will lower his lead by the end of next week. As soon as people digest his marxist moves and relize he skidded visiting the troops because cameras were not allowed in. Also gave approval for his prayer to be published. The only change has been everyone of his positions.

Laura   July 30th, 2008 5:10 pm ET

Why is it that whenever a new poll comes out showing Obama in the lead the headline is some sort of a negative for him? No matter what the poll shows, the headline on CNN and other news websites always focuses on one group he's struggling with, or one issue he's weak on, or some other way he's not doing as well as he should? Why does the headline never focus on the fact that he's winning?

Mike, Syracuse, NY   July 30th, 2008 5:10 pm ET

You can't put perfume on a pig.

John   July 30th, 2008 5:09 pm ET

Nobama,ever!!!!!

Charley   July 30th, 2008 5:09 pm ET

Sen Obama should be pulling away from McCain – even at this stage of the race. But Sen. Obama did not win in New Hampshire as everyone said he would. He did not close in on California as everyone said he was. He limped across the finish line after being trounced in Ohio, Pennsyvania, Kentucky, West Virginia and yet his supporters continue to call those who do not "like' him racist hillbillies. Instead of recognizing that we are millions of lifelong Democrats with left leaning ideals that remain disgusted by the dorm room blogging elites who believe in saviors. It is typically naivee to think a country that somehow put the truly dreadful George W. Bush in the White House twice has suddenly shifted beyond the narrow electorial divide. There will be no landslide for Sen. Obama – he needs Hillary for that but instead with a few reluctant votes like my own he may just ekkk out a win I have voted for black candidates all my life but the truth is Sen. Obama is a turn-off to many people I know – I can not put my finger on what it is – but we have not and will not be thrilled but as said we must not let the Republicans win.

dan   July 30th, 2008 5:09 pm ET

we are more concerned with our own. ( my kids my neighbors kids) than what any eu nation says. after all they hate us until they need us.

McCain/Hillary 08   July 30th, 2008 5:09 pm ET

You can take McCain Supportors!
Add some Hillary Supportors!
Add some Guiliani Supportors!
Add some Romney Supportors!
Add some Huckabee Supportors!
Add some Nuts!!!

Then you STILL HAVE NOTHING!!!!!

Obama 08
Obama 12

McSame NEVER!
Hillary NEVER!

Ardnuas   July 30th, 2008 5:08 pm ET

The media CRITIZICE Obama ALL DAY EVERY DAY FOR EVERYTHING..... to help McBush win. I have lost ALL respect for the media........ ALL

Nicole In NE   July 30th, 2008 5:08 pm ET

I really wish McCain would've stuck with his previosu comments about running a respectful campaign, I was looking forward to seeing something different this election. Feels like 4 years ago to me. It's too bad the RNC and the McCain campaign has to act this way.

I gravitate towards positive.

Obama 08'

Super delegate NJ   July 30th, 2008 5:07 pm ET

Stupid democrats... if you want to know what will happen in Nov 08, talk to your neighbors. First of all the party (Democratic) is not united and they think that they will beat a united front?? Let Obam name his VP and you will see how fast the Democratic Party is disintegrating. You can fill up three arenas in Denver for your convention but Obamas ceiling remains. Does not matter what deal the DNC and the world struck but all we know is that we the American people will vote.

sherry for Obama   July 30th, 2008 5:06 pm ET

People are getting tired of listening to McCains whining.....I know I am.
Obama will come out the winner when all's said and done

Glory be to God when Obama is in the White House come January 09

John, Catholic   July 30th, 2008 5:06 pm ET

Where are they conducting these polls? In GOP heaven?? Honestly how is it possible that a person who draws thousands to come and see him speak is slightly ahead of someone who could not get a thousand people to see him speak if he paid them.

Even in the primaries the amount of democrates that turned out per state was nearly double that of republicans. Yet you are going to tell me that they are that close.

There is no way you are going to convince me of the 18 million Hillary supporters for McCain. 18 million my left butt cheek!!! I would be impressed if she actually had half that since we know a lot of those people were republicans voting to sabotage the democratic primary. What proof do I have you ask? How does a 25 million dollar debt which has gone up from 22 million sound. Donations made to Hillary's debt cannot be given to Obama as that is illegal. So all those people saying they would donate but they do not want their money going to Obama are full of it and were not going to donate to begin with. So either all of Hillary's 18 million were already McCain supporters (which would explain the current closeness in the polls) or/and they are not getting a proper standard random sample for their polls.

Either way I cannot believe the people want to continue tax breaks for the rich, unaffordable healthcare for most and crappy for the few who can barely afford it, and let us not forget our wonderful wars. Honestly people do you like being broke, sick, and having loved ones die?? I cannot believe the crap the Repubs say about McCain for less taxes, McCain for less spending. You think wars a waged with monopoly money?? How do you plan to get money for a war without taxing for it?? Lest we forget the size of government has grown more during the Bush Administration than at any other time. Looks like the Repubs are for Big Government."

As CNN probably will not post this I am sad to say my words fall on deaf ears due to ever so active moderators. Have a nice day if you can afford it 8O)

Tom   July 30th, 2008 5:06 pm ET

McCain seems to be running the same Race that Hillary ran.

It didn't work for her either!!!!

Pascal   July 30th, 2008 5:06 pm ET

Obama may not be winning outright in the polls on National security issues but his trip has made it harder for the GOP to attack him on foreign policy. Since that is the only weapon they had, it may force the debate towards the economy and Obama will will that one.

Mark Decker   July 30th, 2008 5:06 pm ET

So Obama moving from a 5 point lead to a 7 point lead means the race is "unchanged." Yet I've seen CNN trumpet one-point increases for McCain as him "gaining ground." There is no consistency here, other than CNN and other media outlets consistently trying to make this race seem "close" when in fact Obama enjoys a steady and comfortable polling lead.

Larisa, Chicago IL   July 30th, 2008 5:05 pm ET

Is this the same candidate that promised to lead positive campaign? All we hear from McCain camp is blaming Obama for everything – doesn't matter if it's policy or appearance. Nothing new here.

Jos/TN   July 30th, 2008 5:05 pm ET

it does show a better chance of America regaining its prominence in the world again,

Biffington, Biff   July 30th, 2008 5:05 pm ET

C'mon CNN.... my post has been awaiting moderation a full 23 minutes before the first post you have up here...

_ __ _ __ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _
July 30th, 2008 4:17 pm ET
Your comment is awaiting moderation.
It didn't change the race

because it didn't chage HIS race.

it didn't change America's corporate media

it didn't change Focks Knew incessant attacks

it didn't change Joe Scarboroughs morning barrage

Mary   July 30th, 2008 5:05 pm ET

McCain is as dillusional as Hillary Clinton!!
Neither realizes when they are beat!!!!!!

Kelby from Houston, TX   July 30th, 2008 5:05 pm ET

Polls show a limited selected number of people who answer stupid questions. You know who should be polled? The regulars on CNN Poltical ticker! You guys posted a story earlier that said the "majority of America wants offshore drilling. That was hilarious seeing as the vast majortiy of EVERYBODY who posted a response to the story was ADAMANTLY AGAINST OFF SHORE DRILLING, including myself from TEXAS. The bottom line of this post is YOUR POLLS ARE CRAPPY and they have been crappy since FOX stole the election for BUSH. I remember when one could rely on exit polling. How about a story on the general consensus of people who give full comments on stories instead of these stupid polls

YOUR POLLS ARE CRAPPY

Paul Jones   July 30th, 2008 5:05 pm ET

Obama's World Tour doesnt mean he is ready to lead...I am just waiting for the rest of the people in this country to wake up....

FactCheck   July 30th, 2008 5:05 pm ET

McCain's newest attack ad: "Obama is responsible for feeding Bonds steroids, the pollution in Beijing and (in white makeup) causing all that ruckus in The Dark Knight".

Rob Johnson   July 30th, 2008 5:05 pm ET

The major danger for Obama was that he would do something wrong, not look Presidential, and his numbers would go DOWN significantly.

With McCain (and Hillary, for that matter) making such a big deal about his lack of experience, he needed to prove that he could pull off this trip without looking like a "rookie" who was in over his head.

To quote Bush, Mission Accomplished.

OBAMA WINS GEORGIA   July 30th, 2008 5:05 pm ET

I'M SO SICK OF HEARING ABOUT THESE POLLS....

John   July 30th, 2008 5:04 pm ET

McCain doesn't know it but......
Yes, Obama has already won this race!!!!!!!

Hillary didn't realize when she was beat either, and she is still in debt over it!

First Hillary, then McCain!!!!!

Voter   July 30th, 2008 5:04 pm ET

Americans are pretty nervous about little Barry. And who wouldn't be? He's comparing himself to the Almighty. So full of himself, I can't stand to look at him or listen to him.

A celebrity president, a la Jesse Ventura, Arnold S., etc. And Obama isn't any smarter than either of these two clowns. But his packagers are – they are creating a Supreme Being who will change everything!

All problems will be solved. All the money you want will fall out of the sky. The lions will lie down with the lambs.

I just can't wait for the morning after when everyone wakes up and sees the result.

As Pogo said, "I have seen the enemy, and he is us."

karen-phoenix   July 30th, 2008 5:04 pm ET

Obama is our only honest hope for a future for America. NO MORE WARS for oil. Peace is patriotic and that is what the rest of the world knows. We just have to catch up with Europe's intelect. Obama is ahead and he is doing it honestly and truthfully and that is what we want. NO MORE HATE ADS. The republicans have nothing left and I just turn off the TV or switch the channel so all you TV stations out there do not accept TV ads from the republican party because they make most of us just change the channel. Go Obama.

Whats left in your wallet?   July 30th, 2008 5:03 pm ET

Obama in a LANDSLIDE. Republicans want to make sure they get all but the lint from your pockets before they are out on their ears.They may never raise taxes but will always make sure they get three times as much from us in other ways.Its time to put regulations back on the oil companies and the speculators.

ProudToBeDemocrat   July 30th, 2008 5:03 pm ET

when Mccain poits one finger at obam, three finngers are pointing at him that will translate obama will win the presidential election 3 to 1 end of story.

Brian   July 30th, 2008 5:03 pm ET

There Polls....come on...don't beleive the hype...Obama's on top!

pumpkin   July 30th, 2008 5:03 pm ET

Lets take a poll:

Who is tired of polls?

*raises hand*

JF   July 30th, 2008 5:03 pm ET

Does anyone else have problems with the logic here, in which a 7 point lead is supposed to be "virtually unchanged" from a 5 point lead–hmm–which "tells the same story" as a 3 point lead which is, by my count, 4 points less than 7? Put it this way: would you rather be leading by 7 or 3 if you were running for office? Or be behind by 3–which the story calls "striking distance"–or 7?

How about this way of looking at it: Barack Obama increased his lead slightly, but noticeably, in the wake of his successful European trip. The 7 point margin more than twice the lead than the CNN poll of polls has been showing, and may be accounted for by...

There, that doesn't feel so bad, does it?

arbite   July 30th, 2008 5:03 pm ET

The media, always timid about doing their jobs, is typically reporting McCain's charges and the fact that the public doesn't buy them without the crucial piece of information– they are false.

McCain decided in his own head why Obama does and doesn't do anything, and then runs ads to that effect. Unless McCain can start bending spoons with his mind, his wild charges only demean the man.

Bruce   July 30th, 2008 5:03 pm ET

Liberals everywhere are crudding in their drawers at the prospect that the best candidate they've had in 40 years may yet lose this election.

Attention Quebec and Europe: get ready for a steady stream of American liberals invading your country in about December 2008...

Supporter 08   July 30th, 2008 5:02 pm ET

Obama 08!!

MMN-hollarious statement

Ryuken   July 30th, 2008 5:02 pm ET

I'm not voting for Senator Obama if he doesn't ask Hillary to be his VP. I don't care how many trips overseas he takes or how many people he unites!

Nova from NV   July 30th, 2008 5:02 pm ET

Obama's trip is all about publicity and bolstering his foreign policy credentials (or lack of it). Does this man have a "Realistic" plan to solve our economic problems or energy problems? Solar and wind will not solve the energy needs of America because it is still costly and not enough. Does Obama's campaign plane run on Solar?

Peter Thickwood   July 30th, 2008 5:01 pm ET

I heard that McCain is putting together a new ad to blame Obama for the French Revolution. Is there any truth to that?

James Hussein, SC   July 30th, 2008 5:01 pm ET

Senator Obama did not take his trip to prop up the poles. He took the trip to visit the troops, the war situation on the two fronts, and meet some of our global leaders. If Senator Obama felt that taking these trips would make his ple numbers go up, then he would have gone sooner and more often.

BR   July 30th, 2008 5:01 pm ET

Oh, how the kool-aid drinkers whine. It is tough when you back an empty suit. His trip summed that up. There is a reason all the marxist Euros support this guy. Here in the U.S. where we don't believe in that, support is not going to be the same. How tough it will be with another 4 years of a Republican Pres.

McArsenic   July 30th, 2008 5:01 pm ET

even Obama said he did not expect the trip to do anything in the polls..news here?

KE   July 30th, 2008 5:01 pm ET

"If the Democrats can make clear our vision, which is not for larger government but is for a responsive, efficient, and honest government that is listening to the voices of the American people, if the American people can feel confident that the institutions here in Washington are working for them and not on behalf of special interests, then I think this can be an incredible election," he said.

...honest government that is listening to the voices of the American people? Then nominate Hillary, the American people has spoken already. I know nobody in the media can talk about it but every polls show Hillary a better candidate.

Mark Ramsey MD Milwaukee WI   July 30th, 2008 5:00 pm ET

Obama, there is a sure way to get those poll numbers up. Choose Hillary as your running mate. 1/2 of the democratic primary voters chose her. How can you talk about unity and not include her on the ticket? It makes no sense. Obama/Clinton '08!!!

Elrod   July 30th, 2008 4:59 pm ET

This makes sense. The trip wasn't supposed make some major polling dent. It was supposed to provide Obama with images that he could use in advertising in the fall, and experiences he could cite in debates. He doesn't have to lead McCain in foreign policy and national security. He just can't get crushed in those categories. As long as he is "acceptable" to Independents and conservative Democrats as Commander in Chief (not better than McCain, just acceptable), then he can win on economic issues. The trip, at the very least, makes him look acceptable. He certainly didn't look like a buffoon overseas, or appear like he had no idea what he was doing. That's all that matters.

mb--texas   July 30th, 2008 4:59 pm ET

cnn trying to stir something up.Instead of reporting Obama is up
51 to 44 sevn points difference they have to mix a lot of other stuff
in to polls and then by the time they get through the poll number
they hope that you forget that Obama is up seven points.

Rich Moore   July 30th, 2008 4:59 pm ET

Wow. Obama crosses the 50% threshold and all you can do is spin how bad this poll is for him? 'Poll shows Obama's trip didn't change race'? Why don't you just say 'New poll is GREAT NEWS FOR MCCAIN?'

Joel in Corona   July 30th, 2008 4:59 pm ET

How about the SENATOR FROM ILLINOIS as well as the SENATOR
FROM ARIZONA spend less time abroad and more time closer to DC,
where they can do the job they were originally elected to do. No sitting member of congress should be able to shirk their responsibility to run for another office.

Doug, New Jersey   July 30th, 2008 4:59 pm ET

The troops in Iraq all say that Obama was just looking for photo ops, nothing else. He didn't care about them at all, even ignoring them as they said hi and asked him questions. They felt that Obama was looking down on them as if they were worthless trash.

It is no wonder he is the Dem nominee, he feels the same way about our brave men and women as most liberal Democrats do.

The next time a hateful, dishonest lib talks about how McCain wants our troops to die and doesn't care about them, remember that his son has already faught in Iraq. He just doesn't talk about it because if he were a liberal Democrat it would be included in everyone of his speeches.

One last thing, a majority of liberal Democrats have no issues with tourturing or killing right wing Americans, it has become that sick, just read what they type on the net, it is time to face the facts about the left in America.

Debbie   July 30th, 2008 4:58 pm ET

Good evening trolls,

I've been on the Political fact check blog and guess what, those posting here, on BOTH sides are dead wrong 99% of the time.

Gosh, you've got to love the educated voter!

Ray Lopez   July 30th, 2008 4:58 pm ET

All that money wasted, had he visited the troops I bet that would have won more hearts over. It's all still up in the air until I see some debating then we will really see were these two Gentlemen stand on the real issues affecting us Americans, not the Germans, Israelis or the French

marianna   July 30th, 2008 4:58 pm ET

Obama trip didn't change the race? Of course not !

He is still African-American ;-)

concerned   July 30th, 2008 4:58 pm ET

Obama showed his bold, arrogant and this election is mine again.
I will give – he is a great speaker – but with no substance.

People aren't stupid.

We don't really have a good candidate on either side. My vote will go to McCain only because of his experience. All the things in this United States (gas, home foreclosures, taxes,) mean nothing if we are attacked again. You can give Bush credit for that one – we have been safe.

Too little experience when it comes to Obama.

seah5 Ohio   July 30th, 2008 4:58 pm ET

Obama was visiting the world. He might have grabbed some world points, but had nothing to do with his campaign.

Maybe he thought it would. Although it should not have.

America is here, Americans were here.

His Speech in Germany did not help him, I think it hurt more than it helped. Him refusing to visit the troops was horrible, No matter what stupid excuse he tried to use. He let those boys and girls down, and he should not of.

His world tour was seen as a Rock Star tour, Him trying to win popularity with them not Americans.

If he wants to impress America He needs to sit down, and answer Questions one to one with Americans. About his polices and the details and the how and what, and when and how they will work, all the facts. Not just rattle off scripted issues. That seems to be all he wants to do.

don   July 30th, 2008 4:58 pm ET

Where are they getting these numbers for the polls?? I've never been called by a pollster or anyone I know either. I quite sure the poll numbers doesn't represent the various ethnic and racial groups in america.

Gerald in Georgia   July 30th, 2008 4:58 pm ET

PLEASE!!!! Has there ever been any candidate under the mirco scope
of the media like Senator Obama. All you hear from the so-caled liberal media is "why can't he close the deal? " Who is he" , Why is he wearing that neck-tie?", where is he flag pin?", "who is his wife?", "Is he Black enough?", "Is he one of us?" (code word for safe for white poeple to trust) " Is he presidential?" "Is he too presidential?" "is he arrogant?" "what is he doing in th gym and not visiting sounded troops?" The media doesn't love Obama, they just want to be the first to report any slip-ups sp that can run it over and over forever to increase ratings. John Mcain is 300 years old and yet the media stays clear of calling him an old man with a power fixation. How many times has this guy ran for president?? it is a sad day when America would rather have a president that they would like to have a beer with rather than a president with a fresh new vision for not only our country, but for our world. I tell you what America, keep on voting for your potential beer drinking buddies and one day when the drinking is done China owns every American Company located in America and Every Amercian owned country is located every where but America. India owns every service job once owned by hard working Americans and the rich politicians like Rove and Cheny and Mcain and Bush are laughing all the way to the Texas banks, maybe you'll wish you had thouth twice about voting with your prejudices and voting with your best intrest.

Ok CNN do what you always do to my comments, hang it out there for moderation until you close this for comments. No ne ever get to read Comments that make real sense.

R.I.F.   July 30th, 2008 4:57 pm ET

I've never seen a narrative of a poll where someone is leading by 7 points be so negative to the frontrunner. The media is so critical of Obama. If Obama wins the election by 7 points then it would be an absolute blowout. Most general elections are won by 3 to 4 points. Also, his lead GREW from 5 to 7 points. How is this not a change?

It will help Obama   July 30th, 2008 4:57 pm ET

Just wait. Obama's waiting. This will help Obama, when we get closer to the election. That's when video images will show American voters that Obama has a positive and powerful stature on the world stage.

alicia   July 30th, 2008 4:57 pm ET

Now imagine if Obama had lost a point or two... CNN would say "why does Obama have (insert ethnic group) problem".. Gosh polls mean nothing now.. I will care about polls after the conventions.. The only poll I care about is why is the cost of food so high..

Ayse - London England   July 30th, 2008 4:57 pm ET

I think that the Obama world trip made him a strong candidate for EU President.

Ray Lopez   July 30th, 2008 4:57 pm ET

ALl that money ated, had he visited the troops I bet that would have won more hearts over. It's all still up in the air until I see some debating then we will really see were these to Gentlement stand on the real issues affecting us Americans, not the Germans, Israelis or the French

vamon   July 30th, 2008 4:57 pm ET

A new poll showing Obama over 50% for the first time and what is Cnn's headline? Obama's trip didnt change anything. Cnn is stuck on negativity when it comes to Obama.

Gary of El Centro, Ca   July 30th, 2008 4:56 pm ET

I think Obama "sealed the deal" with that trip abroad. He demonstrated that he can not only stand on the world stage effectively, he can open doors that have been closed to us for quite some time now. The polls don't reflect the huge wave of first time voters that will enthusiastically cast their votes for Obama in November. It's going to be "landslide" city.

Allan   July 30th, 2008 4:56 pm ET

What poll? Look poll at news.aol.com 63% McCain 33% Obama. During his bla bla bla in Germany I did not see American Flag around his stage. No obama.No obama. No obama.

Tim   July 30th, 2008 4:56 pm ET

Even if McCain wins, he'll have to contend with a predominantly Democratic Congress. We'll have 4 years of stalemate because they are not at all going to let a Republican president have the same level of unchecked, unlimited power as the Republican Congress did. The Dems do not yet hold sufficient majority to overwhelm Republican influence, but that is likely to change in Nov.

Matt: honestly   July 30th, 2008 4:55 pm ET

Polls do not show the true status of anything. How many people do you know now that do not have home phones? Polls are not conducted on cell phones, and many people thirty and under do not own a home phone anymore.

Noah   July 30th, 2008 4:55 pm ET

Put Hillary Clinton on that ticket and see Obama's numbers and fundraising sky rocket. I, as one democrat, will not support Obama unless he shows real unity and makes the offer to Hillary to be his veep. Call me names, whatever. I like Obama, but he needs Hillary's experiance to back him up.

Carl29   July 30th, 2008 4:55 pm ET

I really think that McCain's new found negativity is going to turn off a lot of Ind. and Dem. who thought highly of him precisely for his "clean" brand of politics. Look at McCain's negatives because they are going to rise like yeast!!!

Jake   July 30th, 2008 4:54 pm ET

Don't tell Obama this, he has already had his name embossed on the presidential stationery. Michelle is at Tiffany's ordering the china right now......

David, Silver Spring, MD   July 30th, 2008 4:54 pm ET

More than anything, the poll results show the folly of polls. Did the pollsters ask if the respondents even knew that Obama had gone on an overseas trip?

Stories on the nightly news can't change opinions of people who don't watch the nightly news.

California Gold   July 30th, 2008 4:54 pm ET

The reason McCain's criticism of Obama's trip haven't stuck is because McCain has worked hard to earn a reputation as a grumpy old man whose nastiness works to the benefit of his opponent.

Keep it up John.

Tony Z- MD   July 30th, 2008 4:53 pm ET

This is good news because it will get better. The more McCain criticizes- the less we will listen. Expect to see Obama pick up steam in September.

Ohio   July 30th, 2008 4:53 pm ET

A majority of Americans can not find Iraq on a map. It doesn't surprise me that a majority of Americans think Senator McCain would do better.

Former Republican   July 30th, 2008 4:52 pm ET

who cares? stop polling people everyday!!!!
it's inaccurate and starts asking the candidates real questions.
I sometimes believe these pundits really do this b/c of Job Security
Stop polling everyday, it's not going to change unless you get your eyes off of it!

Obama 08/12   July 30th, 2008 4:52 pm ET

Your Opinions /Polls stink with bias funny thing no one has ever said they were asked another figment of your imagination which you don't have.
Go get a Day Job or
Go to the beach and stick your head in the sand the Sea Life will realize they just located another empty shell they can crawl in .

Kevin   July 30th, 2008 4:52 pm ET

summer polls mean crap. Lets talk about something important like an actual problem that needs solving. C'mon CNN. If I wanna read about polls and bounce and I'll check out Chuck Todd on MSNBC. Report some real news

Cynthia   July 30th, 2008 4:52 pm ET

The numbers may did not change much in the polls but it sure did bring out the dishonorable side of Senator McCain. It lets everyone know that the McCain camp is very worried.

Erin in Edmonds WA   July 30th, 2008 4:51 pm ET

98 days is enough time for Obama to get his message out, and with McCain constantly going negative–Obama's numbers will improve. The altered electoral map shows that Obama would be president if the election were held today. It is summertime, wait until the college kids get back from break and do their part. Old McFart-in-a-windstorm's edge will deminish.

Michelle   July 30th, 2008 4:51 pm ET

Well, well, Barack Obama–I guess voters can see that a week of
photo ops doesn't mean much.

Independent Voter in Florida   July 30th, 2008 4:50 pm ET

Disgusting... Hillary got herself in this bind and it is irresponsible for anyone to help her get out. Billary backers: Are you serious? Would you really stand for this if Obama lost and ask you for relief? Of course not, it's ridiculous...

Obama/AnyoneButClinton 08'

KiloWhiskey   July 30th, 2008 4:50 pm ET

I'd like to see Obama do more campaigning overseas: Italy, Africa, India, Poland.....he can stay over they and try and get those people to love him for the next 4 years as far as I'm concerned.

Doesn't like Kool-aid   July 30th, 2008 4:49 pm ET

MMN-Milwaukee WI July 30th, 2008 4:40 pm ET

I think McCain is putting together a new ad to blame Obama for Alaska GOP Senator Ted Stevens’s legal woes.

If you spit into the wind, it will blow back on your face McCain
------------------------------
I hope Sen. Stevens gets the book thrown at him. But it does sound and smell alot like Obama's deal with Rezko...
They are all crooked, regardless of Party. The only one's who are not are the one's who haven't been caught.

Mike, TX   July 30th, 2008 4:48 pm ET

On the contrary, I am now voting for Obama as the next Prime Minister of France.

Doesn't like Kool-aid   July 30th, 2008 4:47 pm ET

I received an email from a buddy of mine who is in Afghanistan. He said that Sen. Obama's visit was a complete joke. He wouldn't shake the hands of the soldiers. He just went in to shoot hoops and get his picture taken with a few troops. 9 countries in 8 days and he know's what's going on? Seriously folks, quit following an "idea." I agree we need change, but change for the better and this guy is not the answer. He did his overseas tour for publicity and that is it. It was not a fact finding mission at all.
He says he needs to earn the trust of us in the military, but he went the wrong way about it during his publicity tour.

68 year old   July 30th, 2008 4:47 pm ET

We would all be better off if he would have stayed over there with the goofy europeans !

Matt-NE   July 30th, 2008 4:47 pm ET

Most of America is beginning to realize that Obama is less substance than McCain.

Obama can talk and talk with vague generalities, but has no convictions and stands for nothing.

America is too smart to send Obama to the White House.

Linda   July 30th, 2008 4:47 pm ET

I think Obama's trip actually hurt him. With all the attention his poll numbers should be soaring. I think what the american people saw was an arrogant man more interested in courting world opinion than national opinion. It is one thing to be a "presumptive democratic nominee", Mr. Obama acted like a "presumptive President" and like Bush or not it is offensive to have someone take an office to which he has not been elected.

ex-Republican for Obama   July 30th, 2008 4:46 pm ET

Obama did a great job on the tour. He works harder in one week than Bush did the past 7-1/2 years. He needs to take a break and get some rest. Can't say the same about McWar – he takes a break every weekend.
Gee, I wonder who would work harder as president?

H-ROD   July 30th, 2008 4:46 pm ET

SOME HOW SOME WAY THE AMERICAN PEOPLE MAKE YOU PEOPLE PAY. WE WILL HAVE JUSTICE!!! HOW LONG NOT LONG!!! (YES OBAMA WILL HAVE JUSTICE)!!!

Jaime in Texas   July 30th, 2008 4:46 pm ET

I knew is wouldn't. Having campaign rallies in Europe does not make you qualified to be President.

A.J.in Fla   July 30th, 2008 4:45 pm ET

A recent ad from the McCain Campaing quaters calls Mr. Obama the best known celebrity in the world. He is now in the same league with Hitler, Mussolini and Osama BinLaden....!!!!!

Folks, wake up to reality...!!! Mr.Obama is a political Impostor with global ambitions and heaven only know how many deals have he already made with liberals, socialist, anarchist, communist, extreme radicals and other undesirables all Over the world The media should investigate, in fact they should have correspondents in every country
in Europe, the Far and Middle East and as significant In Latin American Countries,most paramount in Venezuela.

Joe Unger (San Francisco)   July 30th, 2008 4:45 pm ET

This makes sense to me.
Obama's tour was so short and rushed, going from country to country for a quick stop, that it was fairly useful towards determining how effective he would be with world leaders.
The Obama supporters, however, seem to feel that since no world leader punched Obama in the face, then that demonstrates he would be able to get along. All in all, what I gather is the only ones who thought this trip "proved" Obama to be effective regarding foreign policy were the diehard Obama supporters who most certainly had their mind made up before the trip even started.
I won't say Obama will be ineffective but this trip was all window dressing and too lightweight to be of use.

Texas trail puppy!   July 30th, 2008 4:45 pm ET

Watchout GOP Fear Machine we shall not be SwiftBoated this Year, Americans are taking back the Whitehouse.
Obama'08

Texan for Progression   July 30th, 2008 4:44 pm ET

We Americans are fickle. What exactly has McCain offered regarding foreign affairs that makes him more qualified than Obama? Think about it...he did and still does support the war in Iraq, he only recently agreed that we could leave Iraq within Obama's timeframe, he doesn't garnish the same level of enthusiasm outside our borders as Obama, and yet he claims to have better judgment and more experience. That my friends is empty rhetoric. Even worse, Americans overwhelmingly disagree with the war in Iraq, but only marginally support Obama over McCain (according to the polls anyway). Unless you are a PUMA, racist, or wealthy, this makes no sense. God help us if 40 plus percent of Americans fall into either of the first two categories.

A Voter for Intelligence/Honesty in Govt   July 30th, 2008 4:44 pm ET

so what the poll really says is that the constant bashing by McCain and the media's attept to capitalize on any slight error on Obama's part did not hurt him.

You have published what McCain was ahead in but have overlooked what Obama is stronger in.

No-one cares about foreign affairs.   July 30th, 2008 4:44 pm ET

Sad but true, the impressions of each candidates abilities in foreign affairs is grounded largely on the fact that few Americans actually care enough to look at each candidate's platform and ability with regard to foreign affairs.
People simply repeat whatever the echo-chamber says and move on.

That's great for McCain, since the echo-chamber largely (illogically) holds him to be the better candidate on foreign affairs. However, since the only reason the voters give him that title is because they don't care enough to look into either candidate carefully with regards to foreign policy... I don't think that his "advantage" on foreign issues will help McCain in November.

What people DO care about is the economy and energy. Neither candidate is correct on energy, but Obama clearly holds the advantage on economic matters, and the more people gradually understand the correlation between threatening Iran and higher gasoline prices... the less they will favor McCain on energy – regardless of the fact that the Obama campaign is a bit misguided there as well.

In short, Obama might not have gained anything in foreign affairs, but there is little to gain there... and he's leading on the issues that matter.

Anonymous   July 30th, 2008 4:44 pm ET

cnn you're retarded.

Jonathan   July 30th, 2008 4:44 pm ET

I mean the campaign was mistaken to believe that just traveling through those countries would boost Obama's foreign policy credentials. The fact still remains that Obama is a first term senator running for president. He has no experience in really any aspect of government which is causing this Democrat to vote for McCain!

Dave in Orange County, CA   July 30th, 2008 4:43 pm ET

What in the world?!
How can anyone following this race not be impressed by Obama's meeting's with Gen. Petraeus and the multiple heads of state *and* opposition leaders?

Sen. Obama is about 10x more prepared to lead than that cranky old man that confuses Shiites and Sunnis.

McSame foreign policy consists of giving Billions $$$ to Oil companies and continue to pay for Iraq while average Ameriacans suffer through this recession....

Vets for Obama!

A Nightingale Sings in Berkley Square   July 30th, 2008 4:43 pm ET

No wonder there is no bump, He didn't say anything worthwhile except to say we need change. Hello? what kind of candidate is this who doesn't say anything of substance.

talk is cheap Obama. You must say something of value like John McCain. McCain wants to ease our pain at the pumps and all obama and his zealouts can do is make fun of McCain's efforts.

Obama is risky and gets riskier daily. What a pair of real Americans Bill and Hillary would make if Hillary were the nominee. They wouldl defend our values. Unlike obama who continues to "dis" our values.

Obama is the riskiest candidate we have ever had for the office of POTUS.

He does not share your values and will re-energize the welfare system. Why else would 95% of the African Americans support his candidacy. The only change he offers is the change in your purse when he gets done with you.

KG   July 30th, 2008 4:43 pm ET

Why would the trip change anyone's mind about how Obama would handle international or national security issues? It was a "grip and grin" trip. Just a bunch of photo ops. Everyone on their best behavior. Let's see how Obama would handle it in a true national or international crisis when the tensions are skyrocketing. I can see it now, Obama comes in all smiles and starts to talk about his world utopia and the other countries tell him he can take his utopia and shove it. Flowery talk and photo ops are cheap and easy. Reality is hard work.

jean paul   July 30th, 2008 4:43 pm ET

Not so many American care about foreign policy. We now know that Obama is likely to build American foreign relation than John McCain with the Warm welcome he got. Americans are more focus on the Economy and will be moore like to choose Obama over McCain since current President(G Bush) has not done better on the Economy

H-ROD   July 30th, 2008 4:41 pm ET

4000 DEAD YOUNG AMERICAN SOLDIERS 1 MILLION DEAD IRAQI'S ALL DEAD ALL BEACUSE OF THE AMERICAN PRESS WHO SPREAD THE LIES ( YES OBAMA WILL STOP THE LIES)

Jeb   July 30th, 2008 4:41 pm ET

The polls are very misleading.
They don't call first-time voters, and they don't call cell phones.
So that leaves out the majority of those that will most likely vote for Obama.
I will safely predict a landslide victory for Barack in November.

Allison   July 30th, 2008 4:41 pm ET

Hmmm...probably b/c most sensible Americans can see that he did it for the photo opp.

Marine Vet   July 30th, 2008 4:41 pm ET

Who cares if it changed the race. The fact is McCain is a scumbag millionaire pig who has nothing on his agenda beyond bomb the pants of Iranian civilian women and children. He has absolutely lost who he claims to be and shown he is a snake in the mud – VERY DANGEROUS!!!!

Bob Indianapolis, IN   July 30th, 2008 4:41 pm ET

The fact that the race is so close shows how terminally ignorant some people are...I guess the past eight years were just about everything the country could ask for...endless war for oil, politicization of the Justice Department, government scationed torture, stolen elections, the looting of the treasury by cronies in the military-industrial complex...UNFREAKING BELIEVABLE!!! Does America have a death wish? Seriously...a vote for McSame is a vote for the Death of the American Dream. It's that simple!

MMN-Milwaukee WI   July 30th, 2008 4:40 pm ET

I think McCain is putting together a new ad to blame Obama for Alaska GOP Senator Ted Stevens’s legal woes.

If you spit into the wind, it will blow back on your face McCain

Capt. Smash, Salt Lake City, Utah   July 30th, 2008 4:40 pm ET

Obama would poll better if they would quit calling everyone over 65 and cling to there guns. I have yet to have anyone call me and poll me. You can buy polling list and tell the list company what demographic you want your list to be.

Bob Bacchus   July 30th, 2008 4:40 pm ET

So Obama has moved from a five point lead to a seven point lead but all that means is that McCain is within "easy striking distance"? Seems to me that McCain has been within "easy striking distance" for over three months now but he just hasn't done it. I'm wondering why McCain has been unable to make a dent in Obama's seemingly permanent lead, kind of an interesting question. It would be nice if somebody, say a "journalist" would look into it. There wouldn't happen to be any of those around here still would there? Perhaps something conveniently missing is that for two polls in a row now Obama has over 50%, kind of puts the chill on at least one media criticism of him.

Obamalism   July 30th, 2008 4:40 pm ET

Of course it didn't, no one wants a socialist for president... at least most of us don't.

Bubba   July 30th, 2008 4:40 pm ET

Yeah, like I vote for whoever's leading the polls. Get a reality check. McCain has to sling mud just to get a headline, while Obama's making news.

James   July 30th, 2008 4:39 pm ET

So, nothing new. More people still prefer Obama to McCain even with his perceived lack of foriegn policy experience.

The republicans continue to only influence the people who don't like Obama anyway. They see the right wing media blitz for what it is, an empty bag of distortions and in some outright lies.

It's still too early to say anything definite.

gina simpson   July 30th, 2008 4:39 pm ET

I just love all of these "Polls". Maybe you should do some polling in Racine, Wi .....which is where I am from.

ALOT of my friends and people I work with have said that watching Obama and the meticulous way that he handled himself, watching how he was not only excepted.....but also loved in the Countries that he visited , and the way that he was recieved by these countries Leaders .....impressed them so much and gave them some outlook on how an Obama Presidency would be veiwed by the rest of the World (as oppossed to the Bush Presidency) that they are now more then comfortable with voting for Obama.

KE   July 30th, 2008 4:39 pm ET

Senator Barack Obama granted himself hero status without an actual accomplishment. He is allegeable because he owns the hope and change message for the whole world. So how he can meet with real heroes without the camera or publicity to make him look better? What Obama does or say nowadays appear to be calculative and tactical. What’s lacking? It’s sincerity.

Senator Barack Obama CAN start playing everything right, but he cannot replace our “distrust” in him. More exposé is what we want, not only about Senator Obama but the whole Democratic Party. The message of the liberals sounding more like for the elitists only, it’s a Members Only Club and, the voters, oh yes the voters, who are they? yes, those clinging people… those can’t get over people…

Greg-Mpls   July 30th, 2008 4:39 pm ET

whatever!

The McCryptKeeper   July 30th, 2008 4:38 pm ET

OF COURSE the trip was appropriate for Obama! McSame was suggesting Obama take such a trip awhile back!!

Elariia   July 30th, 2008 4:37 pm ET

First, Obama's international trip was superb. Despite the MSM and McCain's charges of arrogrance, the young senator handled himself admirably and is to be commended.

Secondly, the poll can be interpreted in a different way. Obama's lead on McCain increased from 5 to 7 points. And while 52 percent of voters think McCain would do a better job on foreign affairs, 48 percent of voters think Obama would do better, a statistical tie.

As usual, McCain's base (the MSM) slant the poll toward him.

(P.S. Why are my posts always awaiting moderation?)

BJGT   July 30th, 2008 4:36 pm ET

We cannot have a US president whose only qualification is being a POW.

Brandon Hillary PUMA 4Mc   July 30th, 2008 4:36 pm ET

Cnn please report the whole story including the gallup poll with Mc Cain up 49/45 that newsweek your biased competiton covered after his infamous european love fest.
People found it presumptuos and it did nothing to prove that he is qualified or presidential. It fed this idolism and last time I check Americans were voting for president not socialist europeans.

"Not this Time"
Mc 08/ Hillary 2012

Obama 08   July 30th, 2008 4:35 pm ET

Polls will sway back and forth for the next few months. The only thing we know is that Obama is ahead, but not by much.

I am so tired of McCain's tactics. Please America. Do not reward him for being desperate.

Michigan Voter   July 30th, 2008 4:34 pm ET

Obama took a risk, walked a tightrope in an area (foreign policy) where he was deemed 'weak' and did a perfect job. America yawns through the poll results. We don't get that how we relate to the rest of the world affects our jobs, economy, quality of life, etc.

As usual, we will get what we deserve in November. We can take a risk and try something new, or stay the course of tired, bankrupt 20th century ideas. It's your choice, people.

Obama '08

Vig   July 30th, 2008 4:34 pm ET

Obama is about Obama. Behind his smiley face is a power-driven individual who really had the "audacity" to present himself on the world stage AS IF already elected. We are about to get rid of one peacock in the White House, we don't need another one. Dump Mr. Arrogance.

John McShame, Obama Is Going to Tax You & Cindy, but Not Me & 95% Americans Making < $250,000/Yr   July 30th, 2008 4:34 pm ET

*** UPDATE *** Obama just responded outside of Bell's Restaurant in Lebanon, MO: "You know, I don’t pay attention to John McCain’s ads, although I do notice he doesn’t seem to have anything to say very positive about himself. He seems to only be talking about me... You need to ask John McCain what he’s for and not just what he’s against."

Rick   July 30th, 2008 4:33 pm ET

Who's "moderating" the comments today, CNN? I think "editing" would be a better word. Anything that isn't supportive of Obama ends up on the cutting room floor. You people are a joke.

Robert   July 30th, 2008 4:32 pm ET

Obama is full of lies, and I think it amusing when a legion of Obama supporters grovel and insult on this ticker, instead of actually having an open mind on issues. Anyways, I have hope...that Obama loses.

mwm   July 30th, 2008 4:32 pm ET

7-pt. lead?i'd say that's quite remarkable for a black man ,in a white man's world.i'm native american/caucasion,by the way.

Kevin,FL   July 30th, 2008 4:32 pm ET

HAHA Mr Over Confident, Obama's going to lose despite what the mood of the country is

Terry   July 30th, 2008 4:32 pm ET

Not everything Barack does can be measured in a poll. He did an excellent job during his overseas trip and having 200,000 people attend his speech says alot about his appeal outside of the country.

clark   July 30th, 2008 4:32 pm ET

It's amazing to me, more than 40 years ago we elected a man with considerably less experience than Obama and who didn't have even a fraction of the understanding of politics that Obama has.
Yet we HEAR an articulate man speaking the truth concerning our life and the world we live in today, we HEAR the things we know need to be said, and we HEAR a message that resonates with hope and optimism and his polling numbers remain low and close to his rival.

People there is only one real answer to what we're SEEING. Unfortunately we aren't that much better educated than we were in the 60's, if not less educated now. We SEE a black man, we FEEL the hostility that still remains in all of us an we react accordingly.

If these same messages were being said by a white, charismatic and engaging individual (like a JFK), McCain would be a distant 2nd.

The truth hurts people, but not like it's to hurt in after 4 years of the McCainster!

Obama Supporter from FL   July 30th, 2008 4:32 pm ET

And in other news, polls are meaningless because half of America probably isn't even aware of who the candidates are, and won't be until November. If ever.

fafa   July 30th, 2008 4:32 pm ET

CNN is getting annoningly conservative. Are you afraid being tagged in love with senator Obama. Senator Obama negative media reporting over the last 6 weeks has been 75% compared to about John McCain 50%
So please I look at you guys for fair and balnced reporting but can I still trust you. Some ( yeah conservative fellow of mine) hinted CNN stands these days for Conservative Network News. Could that be true?

James   July 30th, 2008 4:31 pm ET

I have never been polled.

No one I know of has ever been polled.

Where do these polls come from? Japan?

Montana is Obama Country   July 30th, 2008 4:31 pm ET

**

McCain... Leave BRITNEY ALONE....!!

**

Dave   July 30th, 2008 4:30 pm ET

51 to 44 percent lead for Obama?
Meaningless unless one knows the Electoral College result of that lead. It's a simple popularity poll otherwise with no correlation to the election.

H-ROD   July 30th, 2008 4:30 pm ET

BULL YOU PEOPLE STINK TO HIGHT HEAVEN . WE KNOW THAT YOUR POLLS ARE LIES LONG LIVE A FREE PRESS!!!!! THE PRESS IS DEAD ( YES OBAMA WILL CHANGE THE PRESS )1111

Sane John   July 30th, 2008 4:30 pm ET

"Poll shows Obama's trip didn't change race"

He's still black?

Kevin Leo (Jonesboro, GA)   July 30th, 2008 4:30 pm ET

I think that the pollsters are mising the full thrust of Obama's overseas trip. I do not for a second believe that Barack or his campaign felt that one trip would suddenly make him out to be a foriegn affairs expert. What the trip did show was that he could hold his own with these foriegn leaders. If he failed in this regard, we would have seen a drop in the polls. As he has succeeded in this regard, the numbers will not change but it will allow him to work on other misconceptions.

Texas trail puppy!   July 30th, 2008 4:30 pm ET

Hopefully neither will "Race" change the race!!!!.....

Sane John   July 30th, 2008 4:29 pm ET

And people say CNN has a liberal bias. Hilarious.

The Canadian   July 30th, 2008 4:29 pm ET

Oh my, McWalkingCane is really going to be upset now...all his trash talking and negative campaign ads have done NOTHING to affect Obama beating him in the surveys and polls.

Looks like the maximum spending budget of his might get used up while Obama saves the best for last!

Canadians for Obama '08!

JV   July 30th, 2008 4:29 pm ET

"The poll also shows the presumptive Republican presidential nominee has an edge on terrorism, Iran, Afghanistan and the Middle East — in fact, every foreign policy and national security issue addressed tilts toward McCain. (Terrorism, Afghanistan, Iraq, Middle East, Iran, and Immigration.)"

Amusing since all McCain and Bush have done lately is shift position on these issues to be identical to one's Obama has been advocating all year.

ClintonDems4Cynthia08   July 30th, 2008 4:28 pm ET

Rapper Ludacris releases pro Obama tirade that includes calling Clinton vulgar names!! See it on youtube!

Mb   July 30th, 2008 4:28 pm ET

Good News – It didn't hurt , Bad News – It didn't help now. I think it show up later to have been more advantageous than the polls reflect now.

MaryJo Bruce Surprise, Ariz   July 30th, 2008 4:27 pm ET

Obama should of visited the troops when in Germany. He didn't because he didn't have the camerman and all the entrouage with him thats why. Hes getting himself in so deep. Why can't people see it.
The media are the once holding him up in the sky. Why doesn't he want to debate McCain. One of his comments he said he had visited maybe 56,57 states. Hummm! last time I heard there were 50. Also talking about Pearlharbor. Said something bombing there. Hummm! no bombs but lost of other fire power. He just does not get it out most of the time right. Not occasionaly, but often, too often. This guy will NOT be ready at 3 in the morning when that phone rings. He can' t talk his way out of everything he will have to make a decision. And, my purse if empty of money now and he wants to raise taxes. He wants Americans to be speaking spanish instead of the spanish taking English lessons. Like, Hello the universal language is English. Its like hes from another planet. Talking loud saying nothing.

scooter   July 30th, 2008 4:27 pm ET

If anything I would think he went down after the trip. (most of who I hear in the Barber chair say that he lost there vote during the trip) many thought it was a trip to learn something about what was going on over their and instead it seemed like all he did was get photo opt and tell people about himself (his favorite topic )

Jason - Chandler, Arizona   July 30th, 2008 4:27 pm ET

All those in favor of WW3 please show your hand.. . That's exactly what you'll be getting if you elect John "I know how to win wars" McCain.. He has an itchy trigger finger because of his time as a POW.. He has a lot of rage built up. Why do you think there are so many reports from his fellow GOPers about his rage and blowups..

McCain is wrong on offshore drilling. He wants a few extra billions in the bank for big Oil rather than a solution to a long term problem. Another point is that it will cost us 2-3 times more to recoup the lost revenues from his gas tax holiday for the highway fund which the 18 cents per gallon gives us. McCain should reach out and say were going to invest in Ethanol based on Sugar Cane.. Brazil does it, over 40% of their cars run on the stuff and its clean burning, for you GOPers (Goofy Old People) party thats Zero Emissions. Cleaner air, better for the environment, Something you GOPers dont care about..

We need to get off of oil all together. There are plenty of places to grow Sugar Cane.. like for example The Gulf Coast, Florida, Tobacco Road (lets stop subsidizing tobacco growers, then turning around and suing them and the cigarette makers for producing a harmful product) and instead have them grow Sugar Cane.. Less products are made with Sugar Cane, than compared to that of Corn.. SUGAR CANE IN 2008!!

Oh you Hill supporters, SHE LOST fair and square, Yet SHE wanted to break the rules and get the states that broke the rules. She and YOU need to move on and support Obama or DONT vote ever again!!. Fair is Fair!!

Rise America Rise   July 30th, 2008 4:26 pm ET

Obama was right on the 16 month timetable, which McCain now supports.

Obama was right on talking to Iran, which the Bush administration is now doing.

Obama was right on going after Al Queda//Taliban in Pakistan, which our Army is now doing.

Obama was right on shifting more troops into Afganistan, where Al Queda/Taliban are getting stronger and bolder and killing more of our troops.

His judgement is spot on every step of the way, and McCain/Bush are out of touch ... what does it take for the American people to recognize this?

Vegas Barbie for Obama   July 30th, 2008 4:26 pm ET

Of course the criticisms of the McCain camp would not stick: McCain criticized Obama for not having made such a trip; Obama then made the trip, and made a fantastic showing as a candidate for the job for which he is applying, and McCain couldn't handle how well Obama did, so he had to criticize him for THAT. IMO, by this point, little of what McCain says about Obama is going to stick, especially given that it seems all McCain KNOWS how to do is criticize Mr. Obama...not a wonder most of McCain's prattle is falling on deaf ears by this point...we are listening to our future President, Obama!
OBAMA '08 & '12–YES WE CAN!!!

Moses   July 30th, 2008 4:26 pm ET

The impact of Obama's trip will best be felt after people have digested and internalised it. It just might be premature to conclude that it didn't have any impact on people. We'll see.

OBAMA '08

al   July 30th, 2008 4:26 pm ET

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

THE PEOPLE WHO GOES TO THIS POLLS ARE THE ACTIVE/VOCAL PARTY AFFILIATED SUPPORTERS.

THE VAST QUIET MAJORITY OF NON-AFFILIATED VOTERS WOULD SHOW UP AND DECIDE FOR THE BEST CANDIDATE WHEN ITS TIME COME NOVEMBER.

DON'T BE SURPRISE, ITS GOING TO BE A LANDSLIDE FOR OBAMA.

STOP THE POLLS
STOP THE MADNESS. VOTE OBAMA.

Votr   July 30th, 2008 4:25 pm ET

Obama says "…this country that I love" when he and his wife openly despise everything this country has been and stands for, why then should we trust that his message of "hope" is more than one word and liberal politics at it's deceptive best. For the past 7+ years this country has finally stood for the principles and constitution on which it was created. Obama's dramatic move to embrace socialism and marxism, "hoping" to turn this country into a communist state is no stellar example of "America returning to our best traditions". Obama has made it crystal clear that arrogant elitism (the few with some power will make all decisions for the poor peons of the populace) as well as large government ineptly controlling every facet of our lives where we have to ask permission and have "papers" to do most everything is his vision of America – and we will pay and pay for this with higher taxes.

Paul Dobro   July 30th, 2008 4:25 pm ET

Too bad presidents are not elected based national polls, it is the electoral college. Based on state polloing, Obama has over 270 in the strong or leaning Obama, that puts him over without a single swing state.

And that is not far enough ahead to be called an early blowout the GOP is looking for?

Trust me, the Obama team is not going to stop until Nov 5th. News if all good for Obama, and it can only get better.

Dani   July 30th, 2008 4:25 pm ET

Best headline EVER!!

PAT   July 30th, 2008 4:25 pm ET

SHAME ON YOU MCSAME, YOU THOUGHT THIS WAS GOING TO HURT OBAMA OH YOU WERE SO WRONG FOOL

SHAME ON YOU OLD MAN, SHAME ON YOU..

Abby   July 30th, 2008 4:24 pm ET

Obama holding a 51-44 percent edge over Sen. John McCain. He only needs to win by 1.

joe   July 30th, 2008 4:24 pm ET

Obama,britney,paris- mccain ad got it right. We tried an inexperienced celebrity in Bush 2.We can't afford to do it no moreEven with all the experienced people like poweel,cheney,rummy he messed up.
So i urge all the people who loves our country to vote Mccain.
Obam ,paris,britney.

JA Cook   July 30th, 2008 4:24 pm ET

What really irks me to see a candidate using wounded troops for political gain. it's time to stop that sort of politicking.

Mr McCain – being a veteran doesn't make you a champion of veterans, neither do your votes.

And it sure isn't something that gives you the right to politicize the wounded – which you sir are doing in your ads.

McCain's digs Platform Flip-Flops   July 30th, 2008 4:24 pm ET

This is the WORST time of year to gauge anything with polls because of travel, etc. All of the media knows this. Must be a REALLY SLOW news day. Next month we should have a much better indication.

Thing is – It really bothers me that cell phones are not represented as they should be within these polls. Take it with a lot of grains of salt!

Sgt. Dan   July 30th, 2008 4:23 pm ET

Obama's skipping the wounded soilders in Germany because he couldn't have his meida paparazzi with him was a BIG turn off for me..

jen   July 30th, 2008 4:23 pm ET

Actually 51-44 is not "virtually" the same as 50-45. When McCain gains 2 points you always say "McCain closes gap". Truly the media has a different standard for Obama, and it is the media that is keeping McCain in the race. Anyone who has said that Obama gets better press then McCain is kidding themselves. I do not know if the different standard set for Obama is because he is less known, or if it is simply a case of institutional racism.....

A Nightingale Sings in Berkley Square   July 30th, 2008 4:23 pm ET

Obama is still going to stomp McSame. McSame can't even offer any ideas of his own, all he does is try and destroy Obama's character and steal his ideas. "100 years in Iraq, oops I mean 16 months. Am i getting enough fiber and what happened to Matlock? What were we talking about"

An American   July 30th, 2008 4:23 pm ET

Dear Media,

It is too early to tell yet.

Signed,
Don't Jump the Guns

Deb, Allentown, PA   July 30th, 2008 4:23 pm ET

How is this possible? Ummm Vanna, 44-45% of the US would like to buy a CLUE.

We need a change if we're going to improve our fate. I was a McCain supporter in 2000, but in the last year, the man has moved so far to the right that I'm surprised he doesn't have whiplash. Obama's not perfect, but he represents the best hope that we have.

I do wish he'd hold some town hall meetings, sooner rather than later, if for no other reason than to shut up the McCain supporters who call him arrogant.

You undecided voters who are reading the blogs....please do not fall victim to the GOP's politics of fear.

Freida, NYC   July 30th, 2008 4:23 pm ET

Americans, please vote with your heads and not with your hearts. I strongly believe that Obama is a Socialist and a Muslim. It is crystal clear, he wants to increase taxes to almost 40% for family income over $250,000.00, he doesn't celebrate Xmas, he is loved by all the Socialist European nations (because he shares the same views and values). Americans, please wake up and say no to Obama. Trust me, I do want a real Democrat in the White House, I just don't think Obama is the right one.

And, one more thing; I think we should have another primary and select two new presidential candidates. I really do not feel comfortable with either Obama or McCain.

Hillary 2008

KJ, GA   July 30th, 2008 4:22 pm ET

Polls don't really represant anything significant its closer to november. Besides, Obama's supporters weren't surprised by success trip and many against Obama will probably be against him no matter what...they are looking for a reason to hate.

Brennan - Seattle, WA   July 30th, 2008 4:22 pm ET

Let's see whether it helped or hurt on Nov. 4

Gary in VA   July 30th, 2008 4:22 pm ET

Wait until Nov. that final poll will determine it the trip had an impact. Obama 08. I can't wait. I am throwing a big party.

Not An Idiot   July 30th, 2008 4:22 pm ET

So Obama's Still Ahead Then??

Susan   July 30th, 2008 4:22 pm ET

McBush can continue to try to bushwhack Obama, but it will not work. Why isn't CNN posting or talking about he made up editorial by Dana Millbank ? here was a blatant lie to people, and CNN and the rest of the MSM let McBush slide again! I know this won't be posted because CCNN is so far over the top for McBush it is laughable! Where is balanced journalism?

Marilyn   July 30th, 2008 4:22 pm ET

Of course it didn't change things. The trip was just a photo-op. Besides, Europeans can't vote in our elections, so who cares what they think about the candidates!!

NY State of mind   July 30th, 2008 4:22 pm ET

One point higher is a difference CNN= You people there are trying to make this a race. If McCain wins because of the news stunts i hope it hits home hard over the next 4 years. Be careful what you try to imply, it may actually happen!

Obama 08

Sherry, Atlanta   July 30th, 2008 4:21 pm ET

Trip was not intended to change Race. Senator Obama made the Tour, in order to establish a "Working Relationship" with the Powers That Be. SMART MOVE on his part.

Bobby, Triangle, VA   July 30th, 2008 4:21 pm ET

CNN your polls is absolutely false!!!!! There is no way McCain is close to Obama in the polls. No matter what BS you guys try to pull, come November you'll know the truth!!!

DD, New York   July 30th, 2008 4:21 pm ET

I don't want a rock star for president, nor do I want a new messiah as president!!!!

Obamasdaft   July 30th, 2008 4:21 pm ET

A whirl wind Disney tour of socialist Europe will never help Obama's foriegn policy creditials. Talk about schemes...

Voter   July 30th, 2008 4:21 pm ET

I LOVE the ad comparing Obama to Brittany Spears, etc!!!

Selling yourself on a world scale HAS NOTHING TO DO WITH YOUR ACTUAL EXPERIENCE AND QUALIFICATIONS!!!! A triumph of the ad agencies.

Obama's oil solution will take a DECADE. We Americans want some drilling NOW! Drill now and proceed to get efficient sources of energy for the future. Just say NO to Obama!!!

Obama is a FAKE! He will say ANYTHING! His baloney will spend more money than any president in history.

Obama cannot bring anyone together to do anything. Lugar dragged him to agreeing to a very MINOR bill – that's it!!
Do not vote for this self serving racist who will pick your pocket at the first opportunity!

Goldstein   July 30th, 2008 4:21 pm ET

when they announce that Mr McCain has early symptoms of alzheimer's it will change then. He is not flip flopping,He has a medical condition. we cannot have him making decisions with symptoms like that..

FIRE IT UP, HERE WE GO, CHANGE

Jack Savedge   July 30th, 2008 4:21 pm ET

Now that Senator Obama has return from his "vacation" he can pick up his campaign and start dealing with the problems here in the old United States. I am waiting to see what he is going to do to help with the loss of manufacturing jobs here in Ohio, the recession that the Republicans refuse to acknowledge, the 20% loss of value in my 401(k) plan and other issues which affect us here at home. If he isn't interested in working on the problems here at home, he can step aside and let Senator Clinton pick up the Democratic banner. After all, she received more votes than he did.

Will in Richmond, VA   July 30th, 2008 4:20 pm ET

We going to talk about all McCain's gaffes yet? He doesn't seem "ready to lead" to me.

No matter. When the debates start, we'll see his true colors shining through.

Obama in a blowout.

MD in GA   July 30th, 2008 4:20 pm ET

That's not what the trip was for anyway. Senator Obama's trip accomplished exactly what it was supposed to. Gave him a chance to see first hand what was happening in Iraq, an opportunitiy to talk with the commanders and the chance to sit down with foreign leaders that he will likely be working with come January.

It also shut the McCain camp up about him going to Iraq. Bet they won't dare him to do much else...

old politics   July 30th, 2008 4:20 pm ET

The media is wearing people out with the every day polling.

Biffington, Biff   July 30th, 2008 4:20 pm ET

You know.. I remember this tactic from 2004.. the corporate media with John Kerry... "no bounce from his Convention".

keep it close enough to keep the viewers watching

keep it close enough to keep the radio listeners listening

keep it close enough to fire up a depressed republic party base

keep it close enough to STEAL.

YEAH.... i remember this movie

Lisa   July 30th, 2008 4:19 pm ET

Well if Obama stop stalling and hurry up and pick Hillary as the VP he would win!

I'm waiting on his decision, No Hillary No Vote!

Biffington, Biff   July 30th, 2008 4:17 pm ET

It didn't change the race

because it didn't chage HIS race.

it didn't change America's corporate media

it didn't change Focks Knew incessant attacks

it didn't change Joe Scarboroughs morning barrage

Brian, Pittsburgh   July 30th, 2008 4:17 pm ET

While Obama was visiting troops, meeting with heads of state, and giving an incredible speech in Berlin... the media at home was constantly attacking him and ignoring John McCain's many mistakes. And the polls are still even? What a surprise.

National polls mean nothing. The election will be decided by state-by-state electoral votes. If you look at all the state polls, Obama would win by a LANDSLIDE if the election was held today.

ANGIE   July 30th, 2008 4:17 pm ET

I would like to know where the polling is taking place they never reveal where the polling is done.

Voice of Reason   July 30th, 2008 4:16 pm ET

media outlets like CNN need to have better common sense when promoting various surveys and polls, since a grand majority of the time, there is bias in the selection process on whose answers are actually recorded....

im certain that the number of Americans favoring Barack Obama are so much higher than that supporting McCain. you have to be a moron to vote McCain after analyzing the current trend with the Repubs

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