August 1, 2008
Posted: 10:45 AM ET

From
Obama pushed for his energy rebate plan Friday.
Obama pushed for his energy rebate plan Friday.

(CNN) — Barack Obama said Friday that a windfall profits tax should be imposed on the oil industry to subsidize a $1,000 "emergency" rebate for consumers struggling with surging gas prices.

The rebates had already been announced as part of his tax relief proposal, but the presumptive Democratic presidential nominee said the release of a disappointing jobs report Friday called for the immediate adoption of the plan, which he said would provide a rebate that would “be enough to offset the increased cost of gas for a working family over the next four months."

Listen: Obama's economic advisors describe the plan on a campaign conference call

Obama and John McCain reacted to the latest unemployment numbers released Friday, which show the nation lost 51,000 jobs in June, by attacking each other’s proposed economic fixes.

“Today’s jobs report is an urgent reminder that we cannot afford four more years of the failed Bush economic policies, and that is what Senator McCain is offering,” said Obama in a statement, characterizing the plan as a give-away to corporations and oil companies.

The presumptive Republican nominee plugged his own jobs plan, and said Obama’s proposal represented a return to failed economic policies. "Unlike Senator Obama, I do not believe that raising taxes is the answer to our economic problems,” McCain said in a statement. “There is no surer way to force jobs overseas than to raise taxes on businesses. The American people cannot afford economic policies that will take us backward."

Filed under: Barack Obama


MarlinPerkins   August 1st, 2008 12:24 pm ET

Remember Maxine Waters wanting to socialize(her words) the oil companies? Just guess what will happen when this congress gets this president. If I had an oil company I'd MOVE IT away from the USA.

Why in the heck aren't these Marxist ideas being challenged?

RealityKing   August 1st, 2008 12:23 pm ET

How about an Obama windfall tax on Buffet and the other elite progressives? They're the ones complaining about not paying enough taxes…

Mike in Houston   August 1st, 2008 12:23 pm ET

You're kidding!

Increase taxes, reduce cash available for exploration and production, then expect increased investment?

Such a fool. Obama is going back to the failed policies of the past and trying to repackage them as a change for the future.

What a loser!

Obama Rules   August 1st, 2008 12:22 pm ET

Obama is my favorite person in the world! Why stop there though?!?! Give everyone $10,000 from the oil giants to make up for their wind fall profits during the last 8 years of the Oil Administrati…. I mean the Bush Administration!!! This is not socialism people, this is the same as when a con-artist is found to be using deception to manipulate more money out of customers, and they are forced to pay restitution to the victims. It is nothing more. Heck Bush & Cheney should have to do about 6,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000 hours of communtiy service for the all the crap they have caused.

OBAMA 2008!!!

YouRaLOWinformationVOTER   August 1st, 2008 12:22 pm ET

I AM SICK OF SO CALLED LOW INFORMATION VOTERS THINKING THAT OFF SHORE OIL DRILLING WILL DO ANYTHING TO LOWER GAS PRICES…… GEEZ, GET EDUCATED, OIL IS TRADED AS A GLOBAL COMMODITY, YOU CAN'T SUPPLY ONLY TO BE USED REGIONALY UNLESS YOU ADVOCATE PRICE CONTROLS. OFF SHORE OIL DRILLING WILL PRODUCE AN ADDITIONAL 1 MILLION BARRELS A DAY INTO THE WORLD MARKET OR ABOUT JUST OVER 1%……THIS WILL DO SQUAT!!!!!!!!!!!

Heather   August 1st, 2008 12:21 pm ET

A tax rebate does not pay for anything! A tax just changes who pays for it!

Someone has to pay the tax and someone has to receive the rebate. So, please do not say that tax rebate will pay for something.

When you have entitlement programs, you take from soneone and you give to someone else. I would like to see a break down of who gives and who recieves, broken down by political party.

I think this would be enlightening! I also want to second the wonderful comment by Mike Jones; the government is making a lot more money off of oil then any of the oil companies. So who really has the windfall profit?

Michael "C" Lorton, Virginia   August 1st, 2008 12:21 pm ET

I'm sure that the oil industry is going to love sharing their record profits with the American people….call it a windfall profit tax or emergency energy tax……..but it is what the oil corporation call profit sharing……and if you don't have stock shares……you just don't get your share……..you just get "sucked" at the pumps.

Vicki   August 1st, 2008 12:21 pm ET

This is a great idea.. NOT!!!

Putting a winfall profits tax on the oil compaies will only RAISE the price of gas at the pump even more and if you don’t believe that you’re a total idiot. I know it’s hard for you liberals to use logic since you don’t use your brains very much but this VERY simple example will hopefully make you think. Just imagine you own a company & every year you make about $100,000 in profit. The government comes along & says to you “We think you are making entirely too much money, we’re going to tax you an extra10% more” So now you’re only going to make $90,000 in profit. Are you going to:
A) be happy with that and say “Aw shucks, they are right I was making way too much money”
OR
B) you are going to raise the price of whatever goods or services you provide to make up the difference?
If you say A you’re a liar! If you say B, welcome to the Republican Party!!!

NO BAMA!!

indiePA   August 1st, 2008 12:20 pm ET

What is wrong with charging a windfall profits tax to the oil companies?? They're obviously price gouging and John Q. Citizen is paying the price so that he can keep his job and continue to pay taxes. When was the last time any honest, ethical company made $1485.55/second?? We are at their mercy (yes, partly because the fools in Congress and the Bush morons won't address replacement energy). Why shouldn't they have to give back to the community?????

RealityKing   August 1st, 2008 12:19 pm ET

Obama will be looking for a windfall tax from all of us next..

Pam   August 1st, 2008 12:19 pm ET

Cook August 1st, 2008 11:18 am ET

More tax is all Obama knows. Who does he think will pay the tax? We will.

Drill for more oil and conserve. That will bring prices down as it did in the 70's.

Doesn't anyone read history or learn from it?
__________________________________________

Who do you think is going to pay for the cost of more drilling? The oil companies??? Think again.

rs   August 1st, 2008 12:18 pm ET

obama = the people's champ!

mccain = bush's puppet?

Pam   August 1st, 2008 12:17 pm ET

Hey, look at this…Obama is talking about real issues again today. McCain should give that a try.

Fred from CT   August 1st, 2008 12:17 pm ET

These socialists should be ashamed of themselves. Let's tax a company with a profit margin around 8.4% That doesn't make any sense. There are companies far more profitable than Exxon, leave the big oil companies alone. Without them, this country would be nothing.

David   August 1st, 2008 12:17 pm ET

Republicans are lap dogs for the Chinese. They are borderline communist! And they have the nerve to call Obama a socialist!

HA NeoCon fools! You have no arguement

RealityKing   August 1st, 2008 12:15 pm ET

When is Obama going to put a windfall tax on China??

C Red   August 1st, 2008 12:14 pm ET

McCain..McCain….McCain…..Please tell me what you propose to do instead of complaining about what Obama proposes to do. Socialism? sounds like fear. There are subsidies throughout our democracy. Oh! I know, lets give more tax breaks to oil companies and allow more drilling…..to increase their already record profits. Profits are the American way! this is obscene. American values are steeped in caring for one another, period, regardless of politics. Citizens are committed to country and business is enslaved to shareholder and profits. But there is a balance. Voters need to understand that both parties raise taxes and give tax cuts..based upon….Voters, kickbacks self interest race income status religon…or whats good for America?

LOL   August 1st, 2008 12:13 pm ET

I'm cracking up at the commentors claiming Obama's a socialist, when their lord and master George W Bush just sent them all a stimulus check.

I guess they all sent theirs back?

jason, tx   August 1st, 2008 12:13 pm ET

How is taxing windfall profits that are way out of control and giving it back to the people socialist?!?!? That's insane.

You go Obama. He's right. This would be a great plan, unlike a stimulus package where there is no way to get the money and we just go farther into debt.

John   August 1st, 2008 12:12 pm ET

I love this crap…. Let me use other people's money to BUY YOUR VOTE BY PROMISING A $1,000 "EMERGENCY" REBATE.

This is nothing then BUYING PEOPLE'S VOTES!!!!

Communists and Marxist live for this stuff…. Wait even the Communists CHINA and RUSSIA are embracing Capitalistic principals. WHEN WILL WE???

ENE M DIAZ   August 1st, 2008 12:12 pm ET

DESTROYING THE BEST CANDIDATE THAT CAUSED THE DIVISIVE THING THAT CAME OUT. HE IS GONNA LOOSE IN NOVEMBER?

James Hussein, SC   August 1st, 2008 12:12 pm ET

Greg Pottstown, Pa. August 1st, 2008 11:15 am ET

A vote for Obama is a vote for the redistribution of wealth. What is the point of working hard Obama will make sure that you make the same amount of money no mater if you have a degree or not or a job or not. That is not what America is about.

Yea Greg, you are right. How dare the poor demand some of the wealth the rich just keep getting everyday!

I can't wait until I am as rich as you, and then I will get all the tax breaks and support.

Ted   August 1st, 2008 12:11 pm ET

Good idea, make the oil companies help the people they're hurting!

James Hussein, SC   August 1st, 2008 12:09 pm ET

John McCain offers summer gas tax break = 30 bucks savings.

Barack Obama offers winfall profits tax on big oil = 1000 bucks in the pocket.

One takes money from our infrastructure. The takes money back from the profiteers.

Which plan do you like?

Fernando ATL   August 1st, 2008 12:09 pm ET

WINDFALL PROFITS TAX? If Obama is so smart to think that this will work, well, he is not qualified for president. What companies will do is move their headquarters to other countries, as many are already doing…

ANGIE   August 1st, 2008 12:08 pm ET

The thing i cant understand is mccain was against off shore drilling and is now for it, Mcain said he will not raise taxes now he says he may and its not off the table how does mccain plan on balancing the budget? From what i understand its going to cost lots of money to drill with equipment, refineries etc mccain just confuses me more and more!!

CountryGorilla   August 1st, 2008 12:08 pm ET

Are all of you blind? Who does he think he is "Robin Hood"? Take from the "Rich" and give to the "Poor". That is his "Scare Tactic" and the youth of this country actually believe in it.

tjp, valley forge, PA   August 1st, 2008 12:08 pm ET

What's next? Nationalize the Oil companies? What about pharma? And then what? The grocery store chains. Socialist Obama is destined to lose in November. Many stupid schemes that have failed in the past when attempted by previous tax and spend liberals. And socialists around the globe.

Alonzo Jefferson   August 1st, 2008 12:08 pm ET

Who is McSame??

C from Texas   August 1st, 2008 12:06 pm ET

And who do you think is going to pay for this windfall profits tax? Prepare for gas to triple in price if this goes through. Also does this mean that if any company makes a large profit that they will have to pay too? Thought this was America where people were suppose to make money….The American Dream!!!!! First the oil companies then who's next? Microsoft?

This is just another way for the Democrats to tax people to get more money, why doesn't Congress take a pay cut since they're doing such a lousy job?

VON BISMARK,Vienna.   August 1st, 2008 12:06 pm ET

This is John McCain on offshore drilling: research,feasibility studies,drilling etc will have an effect on the gas price in a few months.

This smacks of intellectual dishonesty!

The Real Issue   August 1st, 2008 12:06 pm ET

The Real Issue is the oil companies made record profits off the back of all Americans. This was not fair and it severely impacted the economy. The build-up of profits were made because oil executives know that the price will drop due to alternatives to using oil. While that is going very slow, these same executives want to use the profits for additional oil exploration which the Republican party wants. However, it's too late….The Republicans had 8 years and could not work this out. Americans do not allow them another year after January, 2009. Alternative sources will be developed and we will as a nation be better for it!!!!

The Texan Cowboys   August 1st, 2008 12:05 pm ET

Mad man the old man cannot even remembering things and did not know the difference between shiit and shunni, lol.. is this the kind of commander in chief the American people ought to install in the white house?? Wake up people, to the fact that four more years of McBush will throw our country in the toilet again again, no way Mr. mad man.. You are still on the same path with the corrupt Republicans, fear and smear. Not this time my friend, McBush.. MY Friends, My Friends, My Friends.. no way but Obama for president.

Billy Gibbons   August 1st, 2008 12:04 pm ET

Another nail in the coffin for Barrack Obama.
No sensible thinking person would think that such a scheme would help this country lower energy prices. Oil companies will obviously raise prices on gas to cover the losses. Companies HAVE TO MAKE PROFITS. I can't believe Obama does not understand that simple fact.

Jude   August 1st, 2008 12:03 pm ET

Why should we vote McCain:
1. He's the oldest candidate for first term president.
2. He wants to bomb Iran off the face of this planet.
3. He has a real problem of controlling his temper.
4. He knows more about the economy than his opponent.
5. He cares more about the average american because he could relate to their hardships.
6. He's plan of change is just like Bush's.
7. He thinks everyone is "My Friend".

Yeah…right!!!

B.Hawkins   August 1st, 2008 12:03 pm ET

Greg Pottstown, Pa. August 1st, 2008 11:15 am ET

A vote for Obama is a vote for the redistribution of wealth. What is the point of working hard Obama will make sure that you make the same amount of money no mater if you have a degree or not or a job or not. That is not what America is about.

———————————————————————————————–
Exxon Mobile had profits of 11.68 billion dollars last QUARTER. John McCain wants to give them a 1.2 billion dollar tax break while 51,000 hard working Americans lost their job last Month. Is that what America is about?

Peggy - TX   August 1st, 2008 12:02 pm ET

$1000 amounts to about $20 week. $20 is significant and in fact will help offset the cost of rising gas prices. A few months ago, I was spending $32 a week on gas and now I spend $56, so $20 is about right.

I like Obama's focus on moving to other engery sources and I like the intermediate fix of a rebate. It is simple and to the point.

My vote goes to Obama.

Latinos for Obama   August 1st, 2008 12:02 pm ET

McCain/Bush have been part of the problem and have not offered any real solutions….Oh wait, McCain has spent most of his time on a negative campaign this will fix the unemployment problem.

Conan   August 1st, 2008 12:02 pm ET

So if I do real good at my job and get paid more your gonna take it because it's a "windfall"? That doesn't sound right.

Adam   August 1st, 2008 12:01 pm ET

I dont see why everyone is screaming "Socialism". America has never been 100% capitalistic. It has always been a mix of both.

Ya'll act like this tax will take away your pursuit of happiness (whatever that may be).

Nick   August 1st, 2008 11:59 am ET

Energy rebates or Gas tax holidays just give aways and not solutions. Will the candidates please stick to solutions. This is starting to sound like a bad car sales job.

D from OHIO   August 1st, 2008 11:59 am ET

THIS FROM THE MAN THAT SAID THE TAX HOLIDAY FUNDED BY A TAX ON THE OIL COMPANIES WOULD ONLY INCREASE THE COST,
AND SAID IT WAS ONLY $30 PER PERSON. WHAT WILL THE$1000. DO TO THE COST. NO CHANGE HERE , JUST TRYING TO BUY VOTES..NO PLAN OBAMA..WE NEED CLINTON!!!

Joe Regis   August 1st, 2008 11:59 am ET

It is a puzzlement to me that Exxon Mobil can make $1,500 per second of PROFITS and the people get to see not a penny of that, on the other hand when these big businesses about to go under, the people have to come to the rescue.

That is the policy that McCain want to continue to pursue folks. The American people must profit from the kind of profit, it makes perfect sense.

Go Obama go.

Obama 08/12.

john courtney   August 1st, 2008 11:59 am ET

for all those who think that people are not getting stepped by gigantic corporations and getting their jobs taken away because its more profitable to do it overseas, this is a union organizer telling you that i see it happening every day that i go to work and it saddens me that people aren't more receptive to the fact that this is happening. this is not not socialism, this is people being helped out when they are in dire need of it.

Lost in CNN Moderation   August 1st, 2008 11:58 am ET

I love it when the same people who say Obama is a socialist (Jose', Greg in Pottstown, Griff, Mike Jones) cash their "social" security paychecks every month or when they hand their medicare card to the receptionist at the doctors office, or when they file for unemployment because their employer just layed them off. All so called "socialist" GOVERNMENT RUN programs.

Maybe you'd prefer to allow big business to handle social security, medicare, and unemployment programs. Try allowing those programs to be run by Enron and Exxon Mobile. If you don't like those programs then write the government a letter and decline them so there's more for the rest of us.

norml   August 1st, 2008 11:58 am ET

i dont care what its called.stimulus,rebate,whatever.we need help.and obama is coming through for us,with REAL solutions.

Terri   August 1st, 2008 11:57 am ET

At least Obama has some ideas I really feel bad for all the unemployed people who want a job (decent paying) to provide for themselves and their families

The richer get richer

Most businesses if they can get the same amont of production with less people who is to say they will hire new employees?

NO MCBUSH please

I would be scared to have to be out here again looking for a job.
hopefully I can keep my job and continue to go to school and things will be better when I graduate.

Steve   August 1st, 2008 11:57 am ET

what's the matter with all you Obamabots? Do you actually agree with his lame "emergency" rebate for energy bill? When McCain called on congress to suspend the 50 cents/gallon tax on gasoline that federal government takes to give consumers a break earlier this summer, Obama called it a "gimmick". So what's this "rebate", a permanent solution to the $4/gallon gasoline problem? You've got to be kidding me. The solution comes in DRILLING for more oil here and now, not in this BS rebate.

Cosmo   August 1st, 2008 11:56 am ET

Yeah, Obama really stuck it to McCain, yeah! (sarcasm)

I wonder what other industries would be punished for experiencing huge profits. I don't hear anyone calling for the iPhone windfall profits tax.

Also don't hear anyone complaining about paying an iPhone either, but that could just be me. Funny how people just somehow find the money for things like that.

But by all means, continue Obama to ensure that America's businesses are given less and less incentive to make money. I'm sure that'll make this economy go BOOM!

Dot Livengood   August 1st, 2008 11:56 am ET

How can a man campaigning for President of this wonderful country we live in change a logo on his jet???

Where is the flag that was on the tail of the beautiful jet? He says change-well we will get it but not the way we are supposed to. That logo is sad!!!

A vote for this man-will sell each one to a place where we don't want to be. I have been a democrat dating back to my great, great grandparents-if they knew who is running for president now, they would stand up our of their graves and pray to Almighty God that this is not the man we want for our great country that others have sacrificed to keep us free and be the greatest country in the world.

Thank you

Franky in washington   August 1st, 2008 11:56 am ET

I have a questions why on earth to people think that McCain ahd his supply side economics plan is a somehow a good diea and that they benefit the American people in any way well unless your already a millionare but then again if you are you dont need to make any more money hten you already do. McCain offers no real economic plan only suffering

MMN-Milwaukee WI   August 1st, 2008 11:56 am ET

Have you ever gone to a public library or happen to know where one is?
If yes you’re a socialist.

Some of you are down right ignorant. Even when Jesus was born his earthly parents had gone to be counted and pay taxes. Having said that I have to remind you the any government the world over has but one simple business and that is…..to collect taxes to allow it to provide services and protection to its citizens…take that away and there is no purpose of a government. Take your pick and whining is not an option.

bb   August 1st, 2008 11:55 am ET

Do you people understand economics? Corporations don't pay taxes, they simply build their tax burden into the cost of the good that they are selling. So, you raise the taxes on big oil, they raise the price of oil. If we won't buy it, then they can sell it to any other energy hungry nation out there. And with these taxes on corporations, do you think it is going to be attractive for businesses to exist here? No, they will move HQ to a more tax friendly country. There go more of your jobs.

Ex-Republican for Obama   August 1st, 2008 11:54 am ET

"Exxon Mobil reported second-quarter earnings of $11.68 billion Thursday, the biggest quarterly profit ever by any U.S. corporation"

I thought we had an energy crisis going on here? Or is it just everyone but the oil companies? Oh yea, everyone but the oil companies and the REPUBLICANS whom are trying to give them MORE land to NOT drill on. McCain and his oil partners are screwing every american citizen.

What a fricking JOKE repukelicans are!! No MORE!

Obama '08

Patches   August 1st, 2008 11:53 am ET

When will Americans learn, the Great Depression and WWII was won by *gasp* A SOCIALIST… If you have a large amount of wealth, it's because of this great country. The least you can do is give some back to the people that gave you your huge house, your hummer, and the plasma. Anyone who complains about tax increases is already making over 250,000. Seeing as how you have made a huge amount in tax breaks over the last 8 years, you can suck it up for the next 8.

zeia   August 1st, 2008 11:53 am ET

Way to go ma boy…love ya…Mr. President!!

WOW   August 1st, 2008 11:53 am ET

Angela Frazier, Memphis TN August 1st, 2008 11:16 am ET

Is it my imagination or did gas price drop when Obama went to Europe?

I'm not sure, but I'm paying $3.69 a gal.

NotFallingInLine.org   August 1st, 2008 11:53 am ET

Didn't Obama mock Hillary Clinton for calling for a windfall profits tax when he wasn't attacking her constantly during the primaries?

Flip. Flop. Flip. Flop. Flip. Flop. Flip. Flop. Flip. Flop. Flip. Flop. Flip. Flop.

Hi, Axelrod. This move has got you written all over it. We haven't forgotten about you and about what a joke you are. Love the mustache.

Who's he thrown under the Obama bus today? Was Ludacris run over yesterday, or the day before? It's so hard to keep track of these things.

Knoxville NFIL

Bridgette-PA   August 1st, 2008 11:52 am ET

CHOO….CHOO…….$$$$$$$

OBAMA / SEBELIUS -08!

Greg, San Francisco, CA   August 1st, 2008 11:52 am ET

The comments regarding socialism on this thread are ludicrous. It is not 'Democratic' to have unemployment at a 4 year high and Exxon posting yet another quarter of astronomical profits. If you think more tax cuts should go to large corporations to 'trickle down' to you, you should remember that Bush has already given large tax breaks to the major oil companies. The result has been rampant oil speculation, record gas prices and the Oil Cos. wanting to drill offshore even though they aren't using all of their existing drilling leases and are running refineries at 85% capacity. The fact that some of you would attack Obama for wanting the Oil Cos. to use their astronomical wealth to benefit the citizens who are responsible for providing that astronomical wealth speaks of your ignorance.

Brendan H., San Antonio, TX   August 1st, 2008 11:51 am ET

OBAMA, AGAIN, PUTTING FORTH SPECIFIC IDEAS OF HOW TO IMPROVE THINGS.

By the end of the day, McCain will accuse Obama of something unrelated – per usual!!!

Senator McCain hasn't proposed anything!

Marcus Allen   August 1st, 2008 11:51 am ET

He wants the Government to take money from a PRIVATE COMPANY and hand it out? I'm not so sure he can do that in a Democratic Republic. I'm also not so sure that economists would agree that raiding private companies profits are the best way to stimulate job growth in a company.

Where did he get these bizarre non-American ideas?

EM fm MS   August 1st, 2008 11:50 am ET

What is considered a windfall? $1billion or anything over 10%? Why a billion, why not $1.00? Why not tax any profit over $100.00 as windfall profit. This will help, companys will gladly pay.
Some of you people need to get real.
Untill we get some real leaders in Congress and the White house nothing is going to change (except money from big business to our Congressman's hand).

MMN-Milwaukee WI   August 1st, 2008 11:49 am ET

elliott said: same old liberal tax and spend policies…..nothing new here…….

And I would say. GOP will spend what they don’t have by borrowing away the American futures into trillions that renders American kids debtors even before they are born.

Joe in NJ   August 1st, 2008 11:49 am ET

I'm not crazy about these "Robin Hood" plans of Obama. I don't think people should be penalized for making money, unless it was done illegally. And how do you distribute these rebates fairly?

Rave   August 1st, 2008 11:48 am ET

Obama understands people's problem
McPain is a people's problem
OBAMA (2008 -16)

No Republicans   August 1st, 2008 11:48 am ET

For 8 years, they put this beautiful country to ashes.Now change must come through OBAMA.

Kris   August 1st, 2008 11:48 am ET

This is ridiculous. Do some Obama supporters not realize how bad an oil windfall profit tax is? I would much rather have a candidate not talk about issues then propose this.

I can't believe he's actually proposing this. You know who did this? JIMMIE CARTER. Look at the result. All this will do is drive gas prices up more. Why would oil companies just sit back and let their profits take a hit? This is just insane. I hope Obama loses some of his economic support because of this because this is nothing short of idiotic.

Eric in Ca   August 1st, 2008 11:47 am ET

Those who mock Obama and use divisive and bigoted rhetoric are obviously not the ones hit by the Bush Admins. policies or economic downturn. But for the 95% of us, we can not afford 4 more years of BUSH -McCAIN -GOP contempt for our livelihood and progress.

Why bother to post your disdain for Obama on CNN when obviously things are going great for you? Just vote McCain and continue the failed Bush policies! Your children & grand children deserve a future…

Obama 08

Marie-Gurnee, IL   August 1st, 2008 11:45 am ET

elliott August 1st, 2008 11:12 am ET

same old liberal tax and spend policies…..nothing new here…….

As opposed to the last eight years of spending ourselves into oblivion by printing more worthless dollars. Great plan, elliot. :(

Brian   August 1st, 2008 11:45 am ET

Does anyone realize that the oil industry only made 7% in profit while the retail industry made 11%? Gasp! It's not big oil's fault at all. The reason we are losing jobs is because the ridiculous taxes on businesses are forcing them overseas. Case in point – the great American company Budweiser being bought out by InBev. If we want to create jobs, we need to lower taxes on businesses.

Biffington, Biff   August 1st, 2008 11:45 am ET

So Obama brings out a proposal… that will actually help Americans immediately. watch the attacks come fast and furiously WHILE OFFERING NOTHING THEMSELVES…

therealist   August 1st, 2008 11:44 am ET

Next…, a windfall tax on everyone making above 250,000

And then, a windfall tax on everyone making above 100,000

and then, a windfall tax on everyone making above 50,000

Finally…, communism.

Shane NJ   August 1st, 2008 11:44 am ET

Talk about politics as usual. First Obama excoriates Clinton on her gas tax holiday (which was to be paid for by an oil windfall tax), saying it was political pandering and bad economic policy. Now he proposes something that is is essentially the same: trying to buy votes with a policy that is still flawed. Attacking Clinton, he said oil companies would merely shift the windfall burden back to the consumers. I guess because it's Barack the Enlightened One's plan, the oil companies will have no such proclivity to do so. Geez, give me a break.

Eric - Pittsburgh   August 1st, 2008 11:44 am ET

Guess what other country re-distributes oil company profits to it's people? Venezuela!! And what a great place to live that is!!

It's really scary to see how socialist we are becoming and how everyone is thrilled to death about it. Just sit back you commie-libs and let the government tax us into prosperity – because that has always worked out in the past!

Bob   August 1st, 2008 11:44 am ET

This coming from a man so dedicated to his constituency that he has missed 287 of 1268 votes (23%) that have taken place since he became a Senator. He cares so much…. He is a Senator, in the majority party, and yet he spends the time that we the taxpayers have paid him for campaigning.

Mike from Westchester   August 1st, 2008 11:43 am ET

Greg Pottstown, Pa. August 1st, 2008 11:15 am ET
A vote for Obama is a vote for the redistribution of wealth. What is the point of working hard Obama will make sure that you make the same amount of money no mater if you have a degree or not or a job or not. That is not what America is about.
__________________________________________________
This is the biggest crock of poop I have ever heard. Along with the others who are calling Obama a "socialist", you have to believe that these people have some axe to grind. The charge is TOTALLY baseless. As during the Dem primary, many of those supporting Obama have higher education and income levels, hence the oft-used term "well heeled" Obama supporters, like being successful is something to be ashamed of. Those supporters, like me, have benefited from and are strong believers in our capitalist system. We also, generally believe in equal opportunity, fairness, and a sensible level of support for those in need.

Some of the people on these blogs are obviously extremists in that there are only two acceptable points of view for them, extreme laize-faire capitalism or total socialism. They do not seem to be able to comprehend how anyone could have opinions that are not at one end of the scale or the other. Therefore, if you are not a cold, selfish total capitalist, you must be a socialist. I also suspect these are some of the people who are profiting from either oil stocks or the oil futures market, and their love of profit is more important to them than the long term welfare of the United States of America. (please note that I said some, not all)

Alice in Florida   August 1st, 2008 11:42 am ET

Why couldn't Obama just have stayed in Europe forever?

Sick of Obamas Henchmen   August 1st, 2008 11:42 am ET

If McCain were smart, he'd tear apart Obama's integrity. He needs to go after his honesty and his ethical standards. The information is out there – not too hard to find.

But with his mind-control speeches he delivers his bots would never notice.

ClintonDems4Cynthia08   August 1st, 2008 11:42 am ET

The role of a lifetime. Talent Optional. Barack Hollywood Obama.

CL OT   August 1st, 2008 11:41 am ET

What a moron. Lets tax the company that produces one of our most needed needs. It is funny to me that the goverment makes more money on the sale of a gallon of gas than the evil oil companies, but they won't reduce their take. Seems to me that Obama needs to run for president in a communist country instead of america.

Liberal?   August 1st, 2008 11:41 am ET

You liberals have got to be kidding me. If you believe this, why not take $1,000 out of your pocket and give it to a struggly family today. Conservatives do this all the time. We just don't want inefficient socialist governments doing it for us.

You folks are the height ignorant in terms of understanding economics.

Obama will lose   August 1st, 2008 11:41 am ET

Does CNN ever "report" on a non-Obama story? So completely biased its amazing.

John B. From New Hampshire   August 1st, 2008 11:41 am ET

what a surprise… a candidate with IDEAS!!!! not just attacks!!

OBAMA '08… REAL SOLUTIONS!

P.S. to the clinton article.. please read below clinton supportsers to the next article of hecklers at an obama rally saying he wasn't focusing on the black community… hmmm, open mouth, insert foot!!

PUMA-Jessie   August 1st, 2008 11:40 am ET

This is madness! A $1000.00 rebate here and another $800.00 there, here a rebate and there a rebate, everyone should get two or three, but my concern is where is all this money coming from. A windfall profit tax? The company will just raise the cost to recapture the tax. If it just comes from the treasury the national debt will just continue to rise and we will sooner or later become a third world nation. I am concerned that with Obama dropping in the polls is reaching a point to where he is going to try to "dazzle" us with bull. I do not like Obama as he is scary, I don't like Nader and I don't care much for McCain. I might just have to stay home on election day.

Matthew   August 1st, 2008 11:40 am ET

Its Bush who puted us in this hole!

OBAMA 08!!!

Lisa   August 1st, 2008 11:40 am ET

Does Obama know what a "windfall profit" even is? If he did, he'd realize that the oil companies aren't making them.

And why isn't giving people $1000 a gimmick?

Angela, gas prices went down when Bush rescinded the executive order banning offshore drilling. Obama's "Get Out the Vote in Europe" World Tour 2008 had nothing to do with it.

fafa   August 1st, 2008 11:40 am ET

stick to the issue and you win.

jr   August 1st, 2008 11:40 am ET

Okay, let me get this straight. Obama wants a wind fall profits tax on the oil industry. The monies would be collected by the government and given back to the people in the form of a $1,000.00 emergency rebate for those struggling with gas prices. If I state that correctly my question becomes, "Will we need to create another government agency to determine who and who is not a car owner, or who may or may not actually be struggling with gas prices? Or does the govenment just give everyone a freebie of $1,000.00 whether they need it or not?"

Sounds like a government job program for political hacks waiting to happen. Lets figure out how to cut the prices at the pump instead . Then those of us effected will will truly benefit.

Not An Idiot   August 1st, 2008 11:39 am ET

Can any of you Republican Supporters inform me why the independents & undecided voters should be voting for the Republican Party .. after 8 years of disastrous Republican rule …..

All You Do is Criticize Obama's Plan .. What is Mc Cain's economic Plan … Seriously?????? … More BUSH TAX CUTS FOR THE WEALTHY??

Susan in Florida   August 1st, 2008 11:39 am ET

With McCain taking a possible VEEP look at Carly Fiorina, Senator Obama might want to think twice about Hillary Clinton. Both presidential candidates can use the articulate talents and wide experience of either one of these attractive ladies. Fiorina, an expert economist, can debate better than any of McCain's present known possible candidates; and we already know what Mrs. Clinton can do.

I suggest the gentlemen vying for numero uno revitalize their off-message campaigns by putting their money where their loud mouths are. In this country women outnumber men.

Angela Frazier- lost   August 1st, 2008 11:39 am ET

It's called coincidence. It went down because supply and demand is taking control, we are using less as a nation, and tough talk about actually drilling for our own resources is affecting the market. It is certainly not because the Messiah made a photo-op tour of Europe on your dollar.

Rick FL   August 1st, 2008 11:39 am ET

Obama talks about the issues facing our country. Good job.

Unfortunately, too many Republicans seem to prefer rhetoric, as noted with the references to "socialism" here. Do these posters understand what that is? We already have many socialized programs in our country (i.e. police & fire departments, public schools & libraries, post offices, veterans' benefits, etc.), created/supported by Republicans & Democrats alike. It is not a political absolute.

John Sullivan   August 1st, 2008 11:38 am ET

Y'all can be bought pretty cheap! $1,000? Will that change your life?
Instead of election year grandstanding how about forcing the oil companies to spend a mandatory percentage of profits on their infrastructure. Increase refining capability. Also a significant portion on alternative energy research and development. Both to have oversight to insure real and measurable progress. If set goals are not reached then taxes go waaay up.

Matt, Minneapolis, MN   August 1st, 2008 11:38 am ET

Add $200 billion to obama's tab. Where wil that come from? The deficit. How will he pay for it since Exxon only made $40 billion of it last year? Tax us in the future. Taking the entire oil industries profits would barely cover it. Say good bye to all of bush's tax cuts not just no the wealthy. A wolf in sheeps clothing is still a wolf. Much the same as Change in socialist/liberal clothes is still a liberal.

No to O.

St. Petersburg, Florida   August 1st, 2008 11:38 am ET

In the few seconds as I sit here and read all of the negative attacks against Obama, I say to myself….. Exxonmobile just made roughly $4500 in those 3 seconds..and counting…. I am working a temp job just to keep my head above water, while most of the money I make goes into my gas tank each week just so I can get to and from my temp job..and oh by the way… I have no health insurance..

I am a post graduate, 32yr old, African American female…

My choice is clear.. Obama's the only hope I have left…

SHAWN   August 1st, 2008 11:37 am ET

BUT WHAT IS MCCAINS PLAN ALREADY, STOP TLKING ABOUT OBAMA…TALK ABOUT SOLUTIONS

Jacob in North Carolina   August 1st, 2008 11:37 am ET

So, $1,000 X the American population . . . where exactly will all that money come from?

p Coleman   August 1st, 2008 11:37 am ET

How is Obama going to give the people a $1,000 rebate?????????

Does he realize he is NOT the President???????????

When Politicians talk about a Tax refund of 1,000 or 5,000 dollars that means you will be lucky if you see 100.00 dollars of that.

There is very little any of the candidates can do, they are all just trying to become President and they will promise the moon and after they are elected give you a tennis ball.

Untill the government starts thinking about the people that elect them instead of just greed nothing will get better.

Dan, Mpls, MN   August 1st, 2008 11:37 am ET

Republicans = Greed. Drop the idea.

A Nightingale Sings in Berkley Square   August 1st, 2008 11:37 am ET

After reconsideration, Obama is a fool and this plan is further evidence of how left thi nut is and will take this country. I'm sorry for being so foolish myself.

ENE M DIAZ   August 1st, 2008 11:37 am ET

DEMOCRAT PARTY UNFAIRLYBIASED TOWARD CARTER SELFISHNESS, GOING CHEAT OR SWINDLE ON CLINTON CASE.//

p Coleman   August 1st, 2008 11:37 am ET

How is Obama going to give the people a $1,000 rebate?????????

Does he realize he is NOT the President???????????

When Politicians talk about a Tax refund of 1,000 or 5,000 dollars that means you will be lucky if you see 100.00 dollars of that.

There is very little any of the candidates can do, they are all just trying to become President and they will promise the moon and after they are elected give you a tennis ball.

Untill the government starts thinking about the people that elect them instead of just greed nothing will get better.

STILL FOR HILL   August 1st, 2008 11:36 am ET

Angela. Did you wake up from a comma today?

Gas prices dropped when Bush lifted the ban on offshore drilling. Markets move on information. Bush sent a message to Wall Street that the government will do what it takes to get prices down.

What would happen if the Dems lifted the ban on off-shore drilling as well.

Former Dem. Now Independent or Log Cabin Republican (not sure yet).

Obama=socialist   August 1st, 2008 11:36 am ET

Is this what people really want? Do they really want a socialist country where hard work is abandoned and the government re-distrubutes all the wealth? Who is going to actually decide at what point is your profit "too much"? Is that a dollar number or percentage? No money is free, it is just a re-distribution. This is scary folks.

Theresa - Minneapolis   August 1st, 2008 11:36 am ET

Socialism is a buzz word that Republicans use to try to scare the uneducated. Obama is not saying everyone should have or make the same amount of money, as in a socialist economy. He's saying that everyone should have the same OPPORTUNITY.

I cannot wait for this election to be done and over with. If the American people elect John McCain, I will hang my head in shame. I'm sure the entire world will be laughing at us IF the Republicans succeed in manipulating the uneducated into being afraid of Obama.

Al for Clinton 2012   August 1st, 2008 11:36 am ET

The unemployed need a Pulic Works Program, to get work and help rebuild the infrastructure in this country not another giveme program maybe you think you can buy the gullible vote no more debt load your just a tell them what they want to hear unltra liberal. I want a mainstream Democrate

Clinton 2012

Scott, Phoenix   August 1st, 2008 11:36 am ET

Note to Angela above… gas prices started falling after Bush mentioned drilling for oil in this country.

S. Boatman   August 1st, 2008 11:36 am ET

I Am Casting My Vote Based On Looks! Mccain Has Too Many Neck Wrinkles To Get My Vote! I Have Just Played My Age Card!

Phil, FL   August 1st, 2008 11:35 am ET

I'm so sick of McWarmonger's monotone voice saying

"I know how to win wars"

"I'm a POW"

"My Friends"

"Give the wealthy more tax breaks"

Oh yeah – my favorites are when he just says what Obama is for – most of it is spin and lies. What are you for McWarmonger? Trying to destroy everything and everybody except the wealthy elitists like yourself? How many pairs of $520 loafers do you have now?

Obama -08

sherry for Obama   August 1st, 2008 11:35 am ET

They need to put all the disgrutled repubs on an island far away and let them attack each other with insults…….thats what their used to.

Jenny, Rio Vista, CA   August 1st, 2008 11:35 am ET

Sometimes these comments really give me a headache. Obama is asking rich oil companies to share their profits with the average Joe to help pay your bills and to give you some relief. And what do you say…… No Thanks because I am a republican and even though I have lost my job and my home under their leadership I will not vote for a democrat. They could help my situation but I would rather cut off my nose and spite my face. No. I'll live under a bridge and my children will go to war and I still won't vote for a democrat.

Ambrose Smith, Borrego Springs, California   August 1st, 2008 11:35 am ET

McCain and Britney Spears have 2 things in common.

Both are way past their prime and both support Bush.

(Did you see Farenheit 911 and the gum snapping Britney??)

Justin (ny)   August 1st, 2008 11:34 am ET

HOLY HECK! THIS IS NOT SOCIALISM – this is SOUND INTELLIGENT economic policy

for those of you whose financial situation has gotten worse in the last 8 years – what makes you think McCain is going to make it any better?!?!?! IF IT HASN'T GOTTEN BETTER IN THE LAST YEARS, VOTING FOR MCCAIN WILL ENSURE IT CONTINUES TO STAY THAT WAY.

its so painfully obvious we have to be doing something DIFFERENT in this country than we've been doing in the last 8 years.

ask yourselves – are you better off now than you were 8 years ago??

FLA Voter   August 1st, 2008 11:34 am ET

Here is the difference between McCain's and Obama's energy policies:

McCain:

Drill Here!!
Nuclear Power!!
Clean Coal!!

Obama:
No drilling!!
No nuclear!!
No coal!!
Put air in your tires!!
Give your car a tune up!!

Go ahead and give me $1000…but it won't do any good when the price of gas doubles because of his "Profits Tax". I cannot believe he is still peddling this insane gimmick.

You have GOT to be kidding me…millions starve because of rich people??? That has got to be one of the most rediculous statements I have ever heard.

Scott, Phoenix   August 1st, 2008 11:33 am ET

The Democrats solution to everything…TAX,TAX, TAX. STEAL, STEAL, STEAL!

California Gold   August 1st, 2008 11:33 am ET

This is a fair approach to a very real problem for those who need help. Windfall profits are just that: profits. I have no qualms with supporting this proposal. This is far more meaningful than McCain's gasoline tax rebate—which has been publicly shot apart and generally accepted as meaningless.

Big D   August 1st, 2008 11:33 am ET

I don't trust the McCain campaign. I heard a recording of his speech in Racine WI the other day. And he repeated debunked statements throughout that speech. So he was either blatantly lying about Obama or he isn't concerned with checking facts. He said that Obama supported increasing taxes on people earning as low as $32,000 (debunked), that Obama would insist on withdrawing troops from Iraq in 16 months regardless of any emerging conditions (debunked), and that Obama would be willing to lose a war in order to win an election (outrageous and wrong). Why doesn't the media call him out for continuing to spread lies intentionally? Where's his integrity? On topic – if McCain can't be trusted for his own campaign statements, I'm not going to trust him on his economic proposals either.

Mills   August 1st, 2008 11:33 am ET

Angela…..please tell me you are kidding! please tell me you dont think that's why oil went down!!!!

All you Obama Bin Laden supports are in for a rude awakening.

Kelby from Houston, TX   August 1st, 2008 11:33 am ET

TAX AND SPEND! Why do people think that this is a bad idea? Tax and spend is exactly what the goverment does and what it should do. There is not question about the necessity of tax but how we spend the money is still up for debate, A tax & spend policy is normally geared toward the betterment of the people. Why are people against the govt helping people. But when they give hand outs to corporations and business, it almost goes un-noticed. Tax&Spend is good for the economy

Rudy NYC   August 1st, 2008 11:33 am ET

Barack, I thought you were the college professor. Windfall profits taxes on corporations like big oil does not work. The cost always has a way of being "trickled-down" to the consumer.

If you want to raise tax revenue, then do away with some of the more senseless deductions. Make some of the people who do not pay taxes actually pay taxes. I do not like windfall profits taxes. Sounds good, but in reality it just does not work like it does on paper.

Ron democrat turned independent   August 1st, 2008 11:33 am ET

could sen. obama please explain how this will be accomplished.will he guaranty his party will vote in favor of it. and what are the consequences of such actions.he loves to talk the talk but he never walks the walk. during the primaries all we heared was the same old MY DADDY LEFT HOME WHEN I WAS TWO woe is me whinning. now it's I GOT A FUNNY NAME. I DON'T LOOK THE SAME AS THOSE OTHER PRESIDENTS. OH WOE IS ME. who writes this material anyway. QUIT WITH THE WHATS WRONG WITH THIS COUNTRY ROUTINE AND START TELLING US HOW AND WHEN YOUR GOING TO FIX IT AND PLEASE QUIT GETTING ANGRY WHEN SOMEONE QUESTIONS YOUR ANSWER. SOME OF US ARE NOT AS GULLIBLE AS OTHERS

therealist   August 1st, 2008 11:32 am ET

You've got to be a real economic moran to believe in the change this guy is going to bring…

Progressive Progressives for Progress in Progressive Progression   August 1st, 2008 11:32 am ET

It's become a trend that when a republican president is in the last year of an administration, the Dems and the Media do a full-court press on the populace, getting them to believe that it's the Great Depression all over again. ("Hey, don't let that new iPhone in your hand and your tickets to see The Dark Knight for the fourth time fool you, we're in a depression! Run for the hills!")

The public, having ZERO education in economics, buys it hook line and sinker and behaves accordingly. Markets slide and Dems campaign on it being "the worst economy since the Depression." The create the very conditions that causes the economy to stumble and have the Audacity to campaign on it.

Folks, we are within the textbook definition of "full employment." Yes, FULL EMPLOYMENT. Contrary to what opportunistic socialists would like you to believe, this is NOT the Great Depression, NOR anything like it. When you get 30 or 40 percent unemployment, you'll have reason to b!tch. Until then, shut up and get back to work.

WHY IS ECONOMICS NOT A REQUIRED K-12 COURSE???

Obamanot   August 1st, 2008 11:32 am ET

He is more left than Ted Kennedy (see limited senate voting record) and the most liberal candidate ever to run for the presidency. His policies will bankrupt our country. This is not the kind of change a reasonable person can believe in.

STILL FOR HILL   August 1st, 2008 11:32 am ET

Stealing Hillary's ideas again I see.

This is the worst election ever. No Good Candidates.

Will go with the lesser of two evils: McCain.

At least he has a record to base my opinion. Obama has a speech.

Still for Hill, but voting McCain!

SDunn   August 1st, 2008 11:32 am ET

elliott August 1st, 2008 11:12 am ET

same old liberal tax and spend policies…..nothing new here…….
———————————————————————————————-

Why is it that Repubs have the same line every election cycle regarding Dems? Tax and spend tax and spend. What the heck do you think this Republican administration has been doing for the past 8 years??? SAVING MONEY??? How do you think we're now in the hole 9 trillion dollars???? Give up that stupid tax and spend argument and look at the behaviors of your own party.

RealityKing   August 1st, 2008 11:31 am ET

Energy rebate!? Didn't Obama ridicule the republicans for this idea!!??

Mark down another refinement of his policies..

Linda   August 1st, 2008 11:31 am ET

So where does it say that public corporations have to pay dividends to their customers? Do that and any sane business will leave this country and we will get to third world status much quicker.

I've been on the fence between these 2 candidates, but, I think this one just pushed me to the other dark side.

Obama just says what he thinks people want to hear. Since there's so many opinions out there, it seems like a crap shot as to what he'll do.

Jacob Liebman   August 1st, 2008 11:31 am ET

People who support Obama are either stupid fools or so far to the left that it's pityful.. This man thinks he's the Messiah..

CNN=Obama   August 1st, 2008 11:30 am ET

I know people are generally smart enough to see through this when they sit and actually work it through. So, are there that many idiots and kooks on these blogs or does CNN just put up any comment that favors Obama or attacks McCain? This is one of his most ambitious socialist policies yet. What ever happened to working for a living? If you want to rely on the government to take care of you, be prepared to suffer.

Pat   August 1st, 2008 11:30 am ET

I would like to hear more specifics on this rebate and the pros and cons.

Gerald F.   August 1st, 2008 11:30 am ET

Doesn't this idea sound familiar? Seems I heard an ALMOST identical idea from a previous Democrat who was running up till June this year…..

LGriff   August 1st, 2008 11:30 am ET

No, it's not your imagination. I thought the same thime. Gas prices did go down and the media is keeping hush hush about it as if Bush had something to do with trying to lift the ban on offshore drilling. Give me a break…..

Eric   August 1st, 2008 11:30 am ET

BHO's plan is to turn us into a socialist democracy. No wonder why Europe loves him? I'm here in Germany (USAF), you know they have a 50% tax rate here? They work half the year to pay the government and the other half is for them. Maybe that's his goal. Vote BHO for higher taxes and more social programs…European style!!!

JV   August 1st, 2008 11:29 am ET

You are leaving out the other two aspects of his proposal, using the money to offset state budget shortfalls and using it to replenish the Highway Trust fund to repair failing bridges and infrastructure.

Tony   August 1st, 2008 11:29 am ET

Sounds good, but put up or shut up. Typical rhetoric from candidates.

A Nightingale Sings in Berkley Square   August 1st, 2008 11:29 am ET

Hi Kids!
Today's RNC word of the day is "Socialism". I know it's a big word, but you don't have to know how to say it, just spell it. I know you are all anxious to run out a type this new word into as many blogs as you can, just make sure you use The Google on the internets to make sure you understand its meaning.

Have a great day, and Hail Bush!

Jim Schimmer   August 1st, 2008 11:29 am ET

See, he understand the economy.
McSame wants votes by promising anything and stooping to any low.
It's about America McSenile!! It's not about you!

Obama will get us back on the right track.

jeff   August 1st, 2008 11:28 am ET

Who says what! but Obama is the real deal. Look at Mccain he knows nothing expect waging illigal war and negative attack.

Josh   August 1st, 2008 11:28 am ET

You libs laughed at Bush's rebates earlier this year and now this plan is so much better????

I believe the government (who spends millions of $$ on their own pet prjects via pork barrel spending) owes us money not the private citizens who exceled at their professions and achieved their American dreams.

This plan is the definition of socialism and is not in the spirit of the American economic system. And don't feed me that evil corporate America b.s.

demwit   August 1st, 2008 11:28 am ET

What about Wal-Mart's profits? Isn't Obama going to take some of that money too? They just sending it to China anyways..

In fact, Obama should cut to the chase and regulate all our profits. He can then just take what he thinks we need for government..

Leon   August 1st, 2008 11:28 am ET

Did you hear how many billions of dollars in profits the oil companies made. Exxon made record profits in one quarter. Clearly, this administrations focus have to help big companies profit off the backs of hard working Americans. In addition to these profits, we are spending $10 billion / month on a war. What is wrong with this picture. We have people losing their homes, sons & daughters are dying, economies in shambles.

WE NEED TO VOTE FOR OBAMA AND PUT THESE LOBBLIEST AND BUSH TYPES OUT OF OFFICE.

Big D   August 1st, 2008 11:27 am ET

Go Obama – keep talking about the issues and making substantive proposals. Keep taking the high road.

Media – can we keep the focus on real issues like this, and skip the tabloid coverage for a while? Please?

Jan Illinois   August 1st, 2008 11:27 am ET

Speaches, Dreams, Wanting will not get it done. Tell us How your going to do it, before Nov. Too much retoric B.O. When are we going to demand that these guys get to the facts instead of this junk, emotional voting is whats happening here and it will fail.

Abby   August 1st, 2008 11:27 am ET

Fantastic! Stick to the issues that will impact my pocketbook and the lives of our barce troops. Thank you!

Richard   August 1st, 2008 11:26 am ET

I am a former republican and my vote is for Obama. He is just the better candidate with better policies sorry McCain.

Jeff   August 1st, 2008 11:26 am ET

Hey Johnny, hate to break it to you, but "oil companies" and "jobs overseas" are two different arguments…

SDunn   August 1st, 2008 11:26 am ET

Excuse me Keith get your facts straight. If you check factcheck.org you would learn that the bill Obama voted for increased funds for alternative energy proposals and also increased taxes for the oil companies. McCain has not voted once to increase fuel efficiency on cars like Obama has or once to increase funding for research for alternative fuels like Obama has. Who do you really think has our best interests at heart? Now all of a sudden McCain is interested in offshore drilling??? Right, interesting that as soon as he said he was for it he received over a $1 million in donations from big oil.

Kongtooth   August 1st, 2008 11:26 am ET

That's awesome… we've all seen how past tax increases on companies have helped them out… and lowered prices…

This guy is a tool…. which is why as of today McCain is tied in the polls… even after the Europe Rock Star Tour…

Bye Obama… and don't come back… Moron

Robert in Seattle   August 1st, 2008 11:26 am ET

Socialism or Fascism? I'll take the lesser of two evils! Corporate Fascist state run by H Goering clones is not the American Ideal. I'll take my $1000 and give it to someone poorer than me! I can barely make ends meet, but at least they are met.

Big oil puppets NO!

Obama 08 YES!

Jacob Liebman   August 1st, 2008 11:26 am ET

What the hell does he stand for. He seems to have nothing to say as for fuel, the economy etc what' s he for?

ProudToBeDemocrat   August 1st, 2008 11:26 am ET

This will wake up to those people who vote for Bush for the last Eight years. The sad part is a lot of decent people who did not vote for Bush are getting hurt in the process. Majority of the American people are idiots that is why we get leaders like Bush over and over again. I am hoping this year will be different hopefuly people have lerned a lesson from the failed Bush admistration.

Mike Jones   August 1st, 2008 11:25 am ET

And everyone wants to know "Why" American companies are moving overseas in droves………..

easily fooled dem   August 1st, 2008 11:25 am ET

This is socialism, plain and simple and will only serve to futher destroy our economy and way of life. I can't believe the Obamabots can not open their eyes to reality. He really doesn't have 'support', I would describe it as more of a following, almost to a point of religious proportion.

Texun   August 1st, 2008 11:25 am ET

I will vote for Obama, but I think that he must revise his position on off-shore drilling. The "solution" to our energy crisis is to reduce demand and increase supply. The likeliest way to accomplish the latter is to drill in currently restricted areas. Since this debate began, decades ago, the petroleum industry has coped successfully with highly challenging environments, including the North Sea and the Amazon Basin. A majority of the American public is showing better sense on this issue than the senator. It's time for Obama to pursue change for real on this issue.

Vote Nader   August 1st, 2008 11:25 am ET

Sen. Obama's joking, right?

** Nader/Gonzalez 2008 **

Right on Day1   August 1st, 2008 11:25 am ET

same old liberal tax and spend policies…..nothing new here…….

——————————————

The Bush administration has almost doubled the national debt.

Quit living in the past. Neo-cons are not conservatives.

True conservatives should form a new party.

jim in DC   August 1st, 2008 11:25 am ET

hes going to make oil companies give us money? Yeah then we'll pay for it at the pump, unless Obama puts a cap on gas prices. Which is against what this country was founded on. But vote away morons!

Eddie   August 1st, 2008 11:25 am ET

Actually the price of gas started to drop when we sent a diplomat to negotiate with Iran on the nuclear issue.

jen   August 1st, 2008 11:24 am ET

The Republican spin everytime…Protect greed by calling fairness Socialism.

AL   August 1st, 2008 11:24 am ET

Whatever happened to those celebrities McClueless? Please put another add out to give me an update.

Mike Jones   August 1st, 2008 11:24 am ET

Tax all those rich California types so he can give their money to us "poor folks" start with Nanci Pelosi, Barbara Boxer, Barbra Streisand and Sean Penn… Leave my 401k. oil stock alone.. I already paid taxes on it when I bought it…..

Cynthia   August 1st, 2008 11:24 am ET

The reality of it is your everday average person could sure use $1000 in their pockets for expenses. Under Senator Obama's tax plan if you make under $200,000 your taxes will not increase and most will actually see more money in their paychecks.

Demonot   August 1st, 2008 11:23 am ET

This is why the founding fathers never intended every person to get a vote. They were afraid too many people would vote for giving themselves too many benefits and destroying the republic. It is another re-distribution of wealth. Instead of giving out more rebates with all this 'free' money, why doesn't he just have those people inflate their tires and get a tune up. This is ignorant people!

Mike Jones   August 1st, 2008 11:22 am ET

Over half the Oil companies stock is owned by Americans from all makes of life.. Most of the stock is held in Mutual funds that most Americans have in the way of 401k plans… Does Barrack Obama not realize this… Is he so "stupid" to realize that he is goosestepping his to Communism?

Don   August 1st, 2008 11:22 am ET

sounds like the gas tax holday to me. Something he cliamed was a gimmick during the primaries.

mary   August 1st, 2008 11:21 am ET

I will not support obama. He is not trustworthy. Such a liar. I was a democrat and now an independent. I need to wait until Obama loses and Hillary runs in 2012 before I vote democrat and donate another dollar to the party again. For the time being, Mccain 2008!!

bobie   August 1st, 2008 11:21 am ET

next year the 1,000 will come from McDonald's profits and then the year after a big tax on Google's profits.

let's turn america into a socalist dump

what a dumb idea

Jake   August 1st, 2008 11:21 am ET

Sounds like a gimmick or scheme to me.

Ms. RDS   August 1st, 2008 11:21 am ET

every election neocons say the same thing…dems are socialist they're going to raise your taxes. Look at history how many Republicans actually said they wouldn't raise taxes UNTIL they got in office.

Tennessee   August 1st, 2008 11:20 am ET

Ignorance is bliss . . . and Obama is a happy man!

Farrell, Houston, Tx   August 1st, 2008 11:20 am ET

A taxpayer voting for Obama is the same as a chicken voting for Col. Sanders….

Voter   August 1st, 2008 11:20 am ET

"A Chicken in Every Pot!"

"Santa Claus is Coming to Town."

What next? A free trip to Disney Land for every American child!"

Sam   August 1st, 2008 11:20 am ET

Obama went to the middle east and gas prices dropped!

Biffington, Biff   August 1st, 2008 11:20 am ET

Wow.

Just when you think the GOP Senate obstructionists can't sink any lower, they do. Brandon Friedman at VetVoice posed the question: "Will Senate Republicans Vote Against the Troops?"

We have our answer. Yes, the Senate Republicans did vote against the troops.

Mitch McConnell and his fellow Republicans have basically been filibustering every bill til the oil companies get what they want. But, surely, they wouldn't put the oil companies over America's defense needs when we're in the middle of two wars??? Wrong. They did. Seriously, they they filibustered a bill, S. 3001, the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2009, which, among other things, provided pay raises for troops, health care and protection from IEDs. The bill needed 60 votes. Thirty-eight Republicans voted NO against moving forward. Harry Reid (who voted no for procedural reasons) had this to say (via email):
"As has been their hallmark this Congress, Bush-McCain Republicans have once again run away from an important debate, failing to back up their words with action. Despite their strong rhetoric on supporting our troops, they have refused to give them a well-deserved pay raise, denied our troops mine-resistant vehicles to keep them safe and said no to ensuring our servicemen and -women get the health care they need.

"It is this kind of misplaced priorities that is making America less secure. Our military readiness is down, Afghanistan is slipping further into violence, Pakistan remains in crisis, and Osama bin Laden and Ayman al Zawahiri are still on the loose nearly seven years after 9/11. The Iraq war is not only costly, but President Bush and John McCain have provided no plan for responsibly ending the war and returning to the fight against al Qaeda and the Taliban.
The Republicans are despicable. But, it pays. Siding with the oil companies worked financially for John McCain:
Campaign contributions from oil industry executives to Sen. John McCain rose dramatically in the last half of June, after the senator from Arizona made a high-profile split with environmentalists and reversed his opposition to the federal ban on offshore drilling.

Oil and gas industry executives and employees donated $1.1 million to McCain last month — three-quarters of which came after his June 16 speech calling for an end to the ban — compared with $116,000 in March, $283,000 in April and $208,000 in May.
Now, the GOPers are putting their oil interests over America's soldiers. Sick.

CD   August 1st, 2008 11:20 am ET

McCain is such a liar! I can't believe that McCain will try to convince the American people to continue with George Bush economic policies and the greedy and stupid Americans are buying it again. Haven't we learnt anything from the last 8 years?

Unbelievable!

tidho   August 1st, 2008 11:19 am ET

'windfall taxes' is absolutely idiotic.

Corporate earnings are already taxed twice.

If you raise taxes they will either raise prices, slash R&D (largely alternative fuel based) or cut jobs. This is an energy policy?

…Pathetic.

Patrick Henry, Fort Myers   August 1st, 2008 11:19 am ET

Windfall profits?
If you want to charge a windfall tax–don't charge an industry whose actual profits–did not meet predictions.

How about going after businesses whose profits exceeded predictions–that is a windfall, especially if it's in the double digits. Tax the windfalls to debt collection agencies, cell phone companies, internet providers/search engines, movie corporations, and fast food restaruants, and large retailers/wholesale clubs.

Don't forget the federal governement–whose taxes because of increased use of the above–amounted to a windfall as well.

I can't believe this guy is so desperate he is tapping the hatred of the oil industry–to unfairly target them while at the same time offering the nation a $1000 per family bribe pay-off to vote for his socialist and impaired view of how the world should be!!!

Wendy, IN   August 1st, 2008 11:19 am ET

Sounds like my next POTUS. I can not wait to vote for this man. I am so excited about this election, like none other.

Thank you Dems for giving me a candidate I can believe in.

O/08

Mike Jones   August 1st, 2008 11:19 am ET

The Oil companies (AKA Big Oil) make an 8% profit margin off of Oil Sales, and thats after they find it, refine it, and ship it to the gas stations. Our goverment makes almost a 15% profit margin in the form of taxation, Why don't we just take the tax the Goverment with a "windfall tax" and not take it from the citizens to begin with….

Tom in S.A.   August 1st, 2008 11:19 am ET

Oh my gosh, did Obama attack McCain, no you libs, which 90% on cnn are, will say he didn't, it's just politics, but McCain fired back, is that a smear tactic or politics.

Obama needs to come up with something better than 4 more years of Bush, that's all he's got. For those of you who follow, McCain is not like Bush, some things but not all, so please quit using Bush as your scapegoat, last I checked he isn't on the ballot.

Mark Lodes   August 1st, 2008 11:19 am ET

TAX THE RICH! They don't mind. TRUST ME, EVEN WARREN BUFFET DOESN'T MIND. Read the news.

edw   August 1st, 2008 11:18 am ET

With both Exxon and Chevron making billion dollar profits something needs to implemented. The Republicans such as Ted Stevens have been getting their cut from the oil companies for a long time. Time for this mess to stop.

Ms. RDS   August 1st, 2008 11:18 am ET

This is what i don't understand….if the country is doing so horribly BAD under the Bush economic policies, how can continuing to keep these policies in place help. How can keeping tax cuts for business in place help, obviously they're not working b/c unemployment is UP. So people aren't using that good ol tax saving to invest in more jobs for workers. McCain plans make absolutely no sense, as he likes to state he's been in Congress for 26 years…AND THIS IS THE BEST PLAN YOU CAN COME UP WITH. Is this what experience will get us? Is this the plan that a "great leader" comes up with…Is his campaign a joke, is Ashton Kutcher going to come out and say that we've been punked this election cycle. ONE CAN ONLY HOPE!

Ted - Ohio   August 1st, 2008 11:18 am ET

Thanks Senator Obama for bring the discussion back to the issues. We need an adult debate on the state of the American economy and foreign policy.

Not this time!!!!

Cook   August 1st, 2008 11:18 am ET

More tax is all Obama knows. Who does he think will pay the tax? We will.

Drill for more oil and conserve. That will bring prices down as it did in the 70's.

Doesn't anyone read history or learn from it?

Independent   August 1st, 2008 11:17 am ET

51,000 jobs? How many jobs were sent overseas since the Clinton/ Bush trade policies were implemented? 1 million, 2 million, 10 million. Oh yes, there is no way to track that figure because corporations are not required to report it. It's not just grunt work anymore folks, it's HR, Accounting, Medical, Legal, IT, ect – anything that can be shipped out of the country is going…….and quickly.

Natasha   August 1st, 2008 11:17 am ET

LET THE DEBATES BEGIN!!!!!!

OBAMA'08

MR-TN   August 1st, 2008 11:16 am ET

THAT'S HOW YOU SCREW THE MCCAIN CAMPAIGN!

TALK ABOUT SUBSTATIVE ISSUES, LINK THIS!

THE REPUBLICANS HAVE NO PLATFORM EXCEPT TO SCARE PEOPLE TO VOTE FOR THEM!

DOES ANYONE KNOW WHAT MCCAIM STANDS FOR?

IT IS SAD TO SEE THIS HONORABLE MAN, TURN INTO A "STEPFORD WIFE" FOR THE CONSERVATIVE CRAZIES ON THE RIGHT.

Angela Frazier, Memphis TN   August 1st, 2008 11:16 am ET

Is it my imagination or did gas price drop when Obama went to Europe?

Mike Jones   August 1st, 2008 11:16 am ET

Socialism, here we come……….

Neal   August 1st, 2008 11:15 am ET

No one deserves to be rich while millions starve.
And for those who are getting rich off of war, or by taking advantage of the others, you better hope there's no god.
Also, you should know, eventually the poor will revolt and and punish you children or grandchildren for you greed. A la Robes Pierre. Kind of an old story that.

Griff   August 1st, 2008 11:15 am ET

The Socialist Obama, will never get close to any funds. They will be invested out of the Country.

Greg Pottstown, Pa.   August 1st, 2008 11:15 am ET

A vote for Obama is a vote for the redistribution of wealth. What is the point of working hard Obama will make sure that you make the same amount of money no mater if you have a degree or not or a job or not. That is not what America is about.

Jose'   August 1st, 2008 11:15 am ET

Welcome to the United Socialist States of America.

Don't say we didn't warn you.

A Nightingale Sings in Berkley Square   August 1st, 2008 11:15 am ET

"The American people cannot afford economic policies that will take us backward, and what happened to Matlock?" – McBush

That's why we need to vote for Obama, thanks for making our point grandpa.

Former Repub   August 1st, 2008 11:14 am ET

There you go OBAMA!! Stick to the Issues and leave McCain and his Britney spears campaign in the Wilderness!!
This is what america cars about.
I could use $1000 dollars right about now….

Keith   August 1st, 2008 11:13 am ET

I'll bet he's glad he voted for the Cheney Energy Bill now. He's more like Bush than Bush!

elliott   August 1st, 2008 11:12 am ET

same old liberal tax and spend policies…..nothing new here…….

Jamaal Kansas   August 1st, 2008 11:11 am ET

Obama actually proposes policies while Mcsame Just Attacks Obamas there is a clear choice this election and The American People would be stupid if they did not take the Opportunity

v.a.   August 1st, 2008 11:10 am ET

disappointing jobs report? under the bush administration? NOOOOO….

surprise surprise. let's pack up and move overseas folks.

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