August 18, 2008
Posted: 05:30 PM ET

From
CNN

Watch Sen. Obama respond to veiled criticism from a supporter in New Mexico Monday.

(CNN) – Sen. Barack Obama, the presumptive Democratic nominee, took the opportunity Monday to answer many critiques leveled at him by his own supporters.

“As president, you set the agenda for this country,” Dallas Timmons, a local Democratic Party ward chair said to Obama in Albuquerque, New Mexico. “Are you going to set an agenda of change or one of compromise with what the Republican minority is going to allow you to do in the Congress?“ Timmons asked Obama after specifically mentioning Obama’s support for a surveillance bill disliked by some of Obama left-of-center supporters.

“You’re feisty and I like that, but you’re wrong,” Obama responded to Timmons.

The Illinois senator gave Timmons and other supporters gathered at the New Mexico town hall event a detailed defense of his positions on Afghanistan and Iraq, on the compromise surveillance bill he recently supported, and on his approach to compromising with political adversaries more generally.

“Iraq was a fundamental error. I have never wavered from that. I have never wavered from the idea that we have to get our troops out of Iraq,” Obama told the crowd.

After explaining his vote on a compromise version of the surveillance bill, Obama told supporters, “I’m not going to be elected as monarch; I’m going to be elected as president. And, I’m going to have a Congress that’s I’ve got to deal with.”

“Even if we do well,” Obama continued, “there’s still gonna be almost half the country that votes for somebody else.”

“There’s nothing wrong with compromise as long as you understand what your core principles,” the presumptive Democratic nominee said. “And I will never waver from those principles even if I compromise on some issues.”

Filed under: Barack Obama


cynmcm   August 18th, 2008 10:54 pm ET

We americans need a change, we can't have 4 more years of republicans, they've screwed us enough for 8 years, its time for a change. People need to support Obama just because of the last eight years alone. Has'nt it been enought damage. Oil prices, loss jobs to overseas, home foreclosers, Katrina, the Iraq war etc. Since day 1 of the bush administration , things have gone down hill. Do you McCain supporters really think, that he ( MCCain ) could change anything, he's just like Bush.

anna   August 18th, 2008 10:34 pm ET

I am not Obama's biggest fan, but there is nothing wrong with what he said.
I don't think he was being condescending or rude to Timmons, but I have felt that way about things he has said in the past.

Yes, the President, the Senate, and the House have to be willing to compromise to get things done–and not take vacation in lieu of!!!!

Now that third branch, the US Supreme Court, can do pretty much what they please, and with a lifetime appointment…too SCARY!
We can boot the others out, but the Judges…
They got the POWER.

M. Felder   August 18th, 2008 10:34 pm ET

Dave, on your no compromise stance. I guess you don't have a wife or girl friend. In life we all must compromise, if not only to keep the peace and move things forward.

Patricia   August 18th, 2008 10:33 pm ET

Seriously, People, we have had a President who cares nothing for what anyone thinks except himself. Obama is a man for the People. He knows that he will be President for all the People. There is nothing wrong with compromise to get things done as long as you don't sell us out. Do

w.l. jones   August 18th, 2008 10:32 pm ET

It apears some people dont know what being American is "deep down in our character "we rather lose than out shine a fellow citizen. In politic should not be any different. This fourm were in a religon setting.Thereby repect Rev. Warren as well as Mr. Mc/Can coming after him . A person mind train to be careful in give a yes or no anwser unless he is sure what the out come would be in any setting.

Michigan Voter !!!   August 18th, 2008 10:32 pm ET

Obama The Script Actor , With out A Written Script He Can't Speak A Coherent Word , He's A Media Made Soap Opera . Just A fake Character Actor .

Hillary , Or McCain President 2008 !!!!

Denise Groves   August 18th, 2008 10:32 pm ET

The Republican minority? Why listen to them?

Neil K, Lake Forest CA   August 18th, 2008 10:28 pm ET

Pretty obvious, Dana, that anyone who uses socialist as an epithet is not and never was a Democrat. Please quit lying.

floridian   August 18th, 2008 10:25 pm ET

Based on Sen. Obama's answer to "whom will you talk to as POTUS?", does that open up his wife, Michelle, to more inspection by the MSM? Or can we expect the donkeys to continue to insist that she be off-limits? I think we need to accept the second choice, since Sen. Obama made it a point that that is one of his confidantes. I am sure that Sen. McCain will talk to his wife, but remember whom he listed, when the really critical decisions need to be made.

Greg   August 18th, 2008 10:20 pm ET

Flip Flopper???? ROTFL
McCain changes like the winds in a tropical storm or tornado.

McCain whats you to sign your kids up for war so he can abuse them like they did with sending them to Iraq. LOL!!!
He said he would get Bin Laden. Interesting because he had the power to vote that way and instead we are stuck in Iraq. Talk about fake!

Is that Hitler like or what?

Give it a Rest   August 18th, 2008 10:18 pm ET

RJ, CA

Oh yeah, this is the same author who wrote the garbage about John Kerry and brought out the Swift Boat Veterans for Truth. He'd be a reliable source of unbiased information for sure….But I guess there are still some people that follow Senator McCain like mindless sheep.

Shocked at the Christian Media   August 18th, 2008 10:17 pm ET

Why did the pasor lie about mccain being in an sound proof cone while Obama spoke and answered questions while mccain was supposedly in in sound proof room? I'm so dissappointed because once the news was announced that mccain was in a position to hear everything ,my friends that I was was witnessessing to couldn't believe that Christians lie. What has journalism come to? This elections credibility is very disturbing. Is there any network that has anything credible? Please advise where voters can go to get credible advisement.

World Angel   August 18th, 2008 10:17 pm ET

I was a supporter of Obama, but like many of you, his answers to questions doesn't have any substance. He answers a question like I would answer. Obama will fool you with his speeches, but one on one debates, he's HORRIBLE!!!. He always hold his head sideways when he's talking for some reason, WILL SOMEONE PLEASE TELL HIM TO HOLD HIS HEAD STRAIGHT or is that a problem. And he talks with his eyes closed, that reminds me of a drugie.

Barbara   August 18th, 2008 10:10 pm ET

Ms Bosnia Sniper Fire is bitter - her hubby is angry. McCain folks must be suffering alzheimers - Aricept is the recommended treatment, you folks.

OLD MAN YELLS AT CLOUDS   August 18th, 2008 10:09 pm ET

Obama thinks for himself & it turns the rethug trolls on the site off - You are a bunch of mindless lemmings who will follow & believe the McBush lies - and the book you're all talking about is nothing but trash written by a rethug liar

LATINAS FOR OBAMA   August 18th, 2008 10:05 pm ET

By the way, for your information Mr/Mrs RJ from CA… 'swift boater'

The it is confirmed by your Bush III term campaign that the book you are recommending we read "The Obama Nation" is packed with lies.

My advice is that we choose the person we think will do the best job without demonizing the opponent.

Shaking my head   August 18th, 2008 10:04 pm ET

Obviously I am listening, and reading, and all over the net people are waking up, they're listening to. "You can fool some of the people some of the time, you can even fool all of the people some of the time, but you can't fool all the people all the time." The ones listening best see where this is going. Hope you enjoyed your free ride Obama. Bye bye.

Marc PDX   August 18th, 2008 10:01 pm ET

About RUSSIA…

President Dmitry Medvedev said: "The world has seen that even today, there are political morons who are ready to kill innocent and defenseless people in order to satisfy their self-serving interests, while compensating for their own inability to resolve complicated issues by using the most terrible solution — by exterminating an entire people." (Quote from another CNN article today.)

Also reported: Russia has probably moved SS-21 missiles into Georgia. And Condoleeza Rice revealed that Russia resumed the old Cold War practice of patrolling the Alaskan coast with strategic bombers 6 months ago. And apparently a Russian General hinted at attacking Poland if it goes ahead and deploys the dozen US missile interceptors it has agreed to allow on their soil.

Is anyone else concerned about Russia's belligerent actions all of a sudden? Is freshmen senator Barack Obama really ready for this? Or is this why Russia feels emboldened to do it now: because they think Obama is going to be elected?

I have a very bad feeling about all of this…

Mike, Syracuse, NY   August 18th, 2008 10:00 pm ET

Hey Jim, Abe Lincoln had Republican members in his cabinet because HE WAS A REPUBLICAN!

Kim Hussein Taylor:
"i'm so confused, i dont even know who i AM anymore!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!"

Pretty darn obvious. Most Obamites are clueless.

jim   August 18th, 2008 9:59 pm ET

couldn't agree more with how he answered this question. being an independent, it is sometimes easy to see how hard it is to live in a democracy. everyone wants it their way in America. Well, there's a lot of us with our own way. So I am so pleased to see a leader admit that yes, he'll stick to his core principles but compromise for the ultimate good of getting something done for the people.

Keep speaking your truth Mr. Obama.

No Socialist, NY   August 18th, 2008 9:59 pm ET

Kim Hussein your comment proved the point.

Phil Newton Murphy - come on over!

Dana - You can say what you want but they don't have to post it. Start your own media outlet then you can decide what you want to post.

Is that Obama Nation or Abomination? Or do they both mean the same thing?

LT for Obama   August 18th, 2008 9:59 pm ET

I have seen at least three references to the book The Obama Nation to get the truth about Obama.

This book has been widely proven and reported to be, cover to cover, a pack of lies. Why do you not do your own research instead of reading a book by a guy who does not even know Barack Obama? Are you serious?

MIKE J.   August 18th, 2008 9:57 pm ET

RJ

Have you read the rebuttal from OBAMA??? If you haven't, then you don't want to know what he is about!!

STAND STRONG
for CHANGE

OR

FALL HARD
for the SAME!!!

Mike, Syracuse, NY   August 18th, 2008 9:56 pm ET

You never start a negotiation by saying you are willing to compromise. What message does this send to our enemies about things we can't compromise on? Will we compromise with Al Queda , the people who called over 3000 in the Twin Towers? Obama has shown he will throw any person or priciple under the bus to get elected. You may disagree with him on issues, but at least you know where McCain stands. Saturday night was a perfect example. McCain was direct and decisive, Obama waffled and equivocated. Abortion is either murder or not.

dawndawn   August 18th, 2008 9:53 pm ET

All you Obahmuh supporters sound like you need a cold shower –

Dan, TX   August 18th, 2008 9:51 pm ET

So people don't want to go back to the Clinton years, that's for sure. Clinton had the tax rate at 39.6% for income over $283,000 a year. Obama's plan would have taxes lower than that. Remember how horrible the economy was under Clinton. Obama is heading back toward that. McCain is doubling down. If you think big tax cuts for the wealthy were good under Bush, you'll love McCain, because he cuts taxes by another 7% for people making over $3 million a year. Under McCain, 28% tax rate for people making over $3 million a year.

LATINAS FOR OBAMA   August 18th, 2008 9:51 pm ET

Well said OBAMA!

I will never doubt your wisdom nor leadership to lead this country.
Fantastic! That's why you are the contender… you managed to beat the toughest and "experienced" democrats and you are on your way to get those Bush III term voters.

Viva Obama!

LaShanda   August 18th, 2008 9:49 pm ET

I like a president that could have an open dialogue like this. McCain would have run away from that question. I disagree with his FISA vote, but he is still in line with my views and my concerns.

for you   August 18th, 2008 9:48 pm ET

If the majority of Narrow minded people vote, then we will get a narrow minded President. Did you vote for George W. Bush? I guess if you like his politics then I' am sure you will vote for McBush, oh I meant McCain. Bush, Cheney, McCain are all the same. Didn't Bush when he debated with John Kerry indicated that Kerry spent his life time in politics and did nothing to aid in helping our dependency against foreign oil, and then call him a flip floppy. It appears that eight years later, the Bush admin, has done nothing either, but McCain who has been in politics before time now has a great plan. It sounds like the same old politics McCain is supporting, small government, be for real, more pork barrel money ever spent by a administration. Cut taxes, sure…why not, we have money in reserve to pay for the war. By the way, we did trust the Bush admin, right. When a bunch of hypercritics win office, I guess we deserve what we get and when narrow minded people do not look at the real issues, then we get a narrow minded President. By the way flip flop-mostly is used by the person who does it in my opinon, and McCain sounds like Bush. Oh, by the way wasn't it kind of odd that McCain was not in the building when Obama was answering the questions during the Saddle Light forum, it did appear he knew the answers. A very honest man that McCain, insinuating that he was in a silent room. How honest was that statement before a room full of Christians. Wow..you judge.

John   August 18th, 2008 9:47 pm ET

"After explaining his vote on a compromise version of the surveillance bill…" But the article never tells us *what* his explanation for the compromise was. The most important content has been removed from the reporting, and nobody seems to have noticed.

Just more worthless political reporting in this "media rich" age.

JD from FL   August 18th, 2008 9:45 pm ET

All of you people planning to vote for mccain are signing a death warrant for this country. Does everyone not realize that this once geat nation is on the edge of destruction? We're in debt up to our eyeballs, our military is stretched 110%, our citizens our losing their homes everyday, most of us cannot afford health care…another 8 years like the last 8 and abortion & gay marriage all of those silly issues will be the LEAST of our problems…all of our children will be living in poverty, starving, living in the 3rd world country that is becoming of the US

Keep believing the neocons that everything is fine, while they pad the pockets of their buddys (and their own) (the top 1% with all the good tax breaks) …I'm sure they'll take care of you when you're starving.

Reality check #1   August 18th, 2008 9:44 pm ET

Obama voted for the FISA bill after telling Americans he would lead a fillibuster against the bill. How many more flip flops do voters need to hear? Everything he says today is subject to, and most likely will, change by tommorrow. That is the change Obama has offered voters, a change on stands daily.

for you   August 18th, 2008 9:44 pm ET

If the majority of Narrow minded people vote, then we will get a narrow minded President. Did you vote for George W. Bush? I guess if you like his politics then I' am sure you will vote for McBush, oh I meant McCain. Bush, Cheney, McCain are all the same. Didn't Bush when he debated with John Kerry indicated that Kerry spent his life time in politics and did nothing to aid in helping our dependency against foreign oil, and then call him a flip floppy. It appears that eight years later, the Bush admin, has done nothing either, but McCain who has been in politics before time now has a great plan. It sounds like the same old politics McCain is supporting, small government, be for real, more pork barrel money ever spent by a administration. Cut taxes, sure…why not, we have money in reserve to pay for the war. By the way, we did trust the Bush admin, right. When a bunch of hypercritics win office, I guess we deserve what we get and when narrow minded people do not look at the real issues, then we get a narrow minded President. By the way flip flop-mostly is used by the person who does it it in my opinon, and McCain sounds like Bush. Oh, by the way wasn't it kind of odd that McCain was not in the building when Obama was answering the questions during the Saddle Light forum, it did appear he knew the answers. A very honest man that McCain, insinuating that he was in a silent room. How honest was that statement before a room full of Christians. Wow..you judge.

Michael   August 18th, 2008 9:42 pm ET

I am done with this election, it is clear we will not elect the best person to solve our problems, this election will be the same joke as 2000 and 2004. I have lost faith in the voting electorate because it has become full of idiots who care nothing for the issues. Go ahead and vote based on lies and innuendo instead of on the issues. Don't check the facts, I wouldn't want you to waste your time. Take the easy way out, that is what we do isn't it, we don't face our problems, we find ways to ignore them. This election and the personal attacks on the candidates are proof of that and it is sad but hey everyone seems to be content, so be it.

Nick - Arlington, VA   August 18th, 2008 9:42 pm ET

John from LA August 18th, 2008 8:24 pm ET

Sounds like the ship is beginning to sink-are some of the bots seeing through the veil???-who's behind the curtain????hmmmmmmmm

Can't stand his sanctimonious, condescending tone to all who question "the Messiah"-he's always right-…WRONG!!!
———————————————————————————————————-
Yea I mean how dare he disagree with someone and show that he is willing on compromise to get things done….I mean your so right - WRONG!!

joannegreco   August 18th, 2008 9:41 pm ET

***in other words get lost buddy, I want to win this thing and I will do whatever it takes to win it.****

I couldn't have said it better myself.

wrensis   August 18th, 2008 9:40 pm ET

Senator Obama has one enemy. Himself

mac   August 18th, 2008 9:39 pm ET

vote mccain more war/ vote mccain $7 dollars gas/ vote mccain lose jobs/ vote mccain kill innocent people in iraq/ vote mccain stay in Iraq 100 more years!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! American make up your mind not much time left

Voter   August 18th, 2008 9:39 pm ET

An excellent example of Obama's willingness to do anything, say anything, maintain any position, change positions on a dime - all to GET ELECTED.

I wouldn't trust this guy for 10 minutes. After you talk to him, check your wallet before you leave…

Why would you believe anything this charleton has to say?!?

Jeff Long   August 18th, 2008 9:36 pm ET

Now that was soooo sexist!! Would you call a man FEISTY!?! Obama knew that he messed up when he said that.

Ex-Democrat Supporter of McCain   August 18th, 2008 9:35 pm ET

Another snide, condescending moment from the Annointed One, our self-appointed Messiah, Barack H. Christ.

DN   August 18th, 2008 9:35 pm ET

Agree. Sometimes is better to get a little closer to our ideal than to stay far from it just because we can not get the ideal done. Compromise is not bad at all… is just being realistic

John Smith   August 18th, 2008 9:35 pm ET

Why did McCain not tell Pastor Warren during the focus meeting that he (McCain) was not in the quiet area when Obama was being interviewed?

Is McCain an honest man? Now, he has made Pastor Warren look like a lier! There you have it America; there is need for honesty in this nation!

Randy   August 18th, 2008 9:35 pm ET

There it is… he said it.

Barack Obama will do whatever it takes to be President.

"What about US?"

He sold US out along time ago.

This is a disgrace.

election watcher   August 18th, 2008 9:35 pm ET

Only a fool would vote for Obama. Must be a lot of fools in this country.

LT for Obama   August 18th, 2008 9:34 pm ET

"This man is selling fairy tales" - Are you serious? McCain is ready to sell you war, war and more war. Did you not hear his reponses on Saturday where half his answers went straight to war? Give me a break.

"he doesn't even have the political clout to control the party" - Wow, seriously? Is that why the DNC immediately stopped taking lobbyist money as soon as he clinced the nomination? Why he made sure they also donated thousands and has done so in his own campaign?

All of you who follow McCain are Kool-Aid drinkers just like the rest of us. You listen to this man lie and get caught on national TV lying and yet you say he misspoke. Give me a break.

Lastly, those of you who act as if Obama has never said these words before really need to do your research. I have heard him explain his positions on both issues at previous events at least two times each.

Pull your heads out of the sand and stop listening to the media and actually do the research, lest you vote in ignorance.

CM   August 18th, 2008 9:32 pm ET

People who read the Obama Nation really want to come here and have us believe that supports their viewpoints? Thats pretty sad.

PUMAs we get it…you'r voting for McCain. The others who keep saying he's condescending, you get that by reading a blog entry.

Bunch of Rhode Scholors we have here.

PS: that was sarcasm by the way. I'm arrogant too, thats why I'm a VP of a multinational corp at 28. Oh and btw, I will be taxed more under Obama as I make over 250k. The good outweigh the bad here, you clowns just need to justify your stupidity.

Obama 08

Joe Kiloz   August 18th, 2008 9:31 pm ET

S W E E T I E——–I —-W A S —-A G A I N S T—–B E F O R E——-I —–
W A S —–F O R —–I T—–S W E E T I E

Amber Rodriguez   August 18th, 2008 9:30 pm ET

RJ, CA
Surely you jest. If you're reading obama nation, we'll understand a lot about you.

bruja   August 18th, 2008 9:30 pm ET

RJ,CA: You are kidding, right? You CAN not be that stupid….or are you?

Lincoln   August 18th, 2008 9:29 pm ET

I am increasingly optimistic that Obama will win big, that Democrats will end up with significant majorities in the House and Senate. Then the nation can begin to undo the toxic waste of the last eight years.

Wolf   August 18th, 2008 9:28 pm ET

BS - there' s no compromise on the Bill of Rights.. there's especially no compromise when dealing with neo-con liars.

Obama voted to extend the Patriot Act, to fund the war and for the FISA bill… he certainly doesn't have my vote.

ronnie Atlanta, GA   August 18th, 2008 9:28 pm ET

You fools telling everyone to read the trash book is not going to keep it on the bestseller list any longer. I'm sure there are enough racists, bigots, fools and morons that will buy it. We do not care for it so stop trying to sell that trash as truth.

Jen   August 18th, 2008 9:26 pm ET

Other words he is saying I am a flip flopper and will flip and flop depending how the wind is blowing.

Mike   August 18th, 2008 9:24 pm ET

Please, tell me what he has done to reach across the aisle? Example one - the war - oh wait he is STILL towing the line of the dems with the thought that the surge was wrong; example two - taxes - oh wait, he is just like the rest of the dems rob from the rich and give to the poor (I worked hard - why can't they?); example three - oil drilling - oh wait, he is like the rest of the dems and thinking that building supply will not lower prices. So where is this reaching across the aisle? One easy reform bill - come on, everyone voted for that. I can't believe Obama people are able to listen to him and keep a straight face. He is as far left as you can go.

McCain does not follow his party (why do we call hime the Maverick?). You can list hundreds of democratic ideals he has voted for.

anonymous   August 18th, 2008 9:23 pm ET

If Obama is elected he will forget every single one of his supporters. He sees so many people he will never remember one poor soul supporting him. That goes for any of the presidents.

T.O Jersey City NJ   August 18th, 2008 9:22 pm ET

To Brad:
and to all the other ignoramuses with half-baked information leaving comments on this blog. Please get some facts before doing so for the good of others. I watched and listened to Sen Obama's response to the question and trust me, i do not think I've seen him so detailed in his explanation. The information on this blog is not close to one fifth of his response to the question.

Bushwacked Nation   August 18th, 2008 9:20 pm ET

Look out the window. You don't need some right wing crackpot book full of lies or CNN to tell you to vote for.

Not This Time   August 18th, 2008 9:20 pm ET

RJ you are an idiot

gaytexanexile   August 18th, 2008 9:19 pm ET

When Obama is ready to take on the megachurches' taxfree statuses, rather than cosy up to these monsters of mediocrity, and when he's ready to take on big business and big banks who regularly inflate prices for services and use accountancy tools that would make a warrior blush, and thus year to year hold defacto ownership of America's citizens homes, and no one stands up to stop the exploitation of the working man by outsourcing to the cheapest bidders abroad rather than going for the better quality made locally, and when he's ready to advocate profit-sharing at work for each and every American worker, and when he truly understands that separation of church and state mean precisely that….then we'll see progress again in the USA.

HM   August 18th, 2008 9:17 pm ET

To Dave (referring to your post on August 18th, 2008 8:22 pm ET):

LOL!

Yours is by far the most intelligent message I've read here.

Not This Time   August 18th, 2008 9:17 pm ET

If that was McCain he would have had that guy dragged out of the room while saying this is what is great about america freedom of speech.

Rocky   August 18th, 2008 9:17 pm ET

This is thing I have to agree with Bo on, you have to compromise unfortunately the hardliners on both sides make this hard to do.

A from beaverton   August 18th, 2008 9:16 pm ET

tripe (from buck12), isn't that pig organs or innards used in in cooking some latin and asian dishes?

maybe it's….trite?

gaytexanexile   August 18th, 2008 9:15 pm ET

I've got a compromise. Set a limit for two terms for EVERY OFFICE and those long-sinecured fusspots of bailing out the banks to the tune of trillions of dollars while leaving american homebuyers holding properties not worth even the house valuations of 6 months ago with repayment debts far beyond all recoverable equity. Set up cooperatives and focus on local sustainability of communities, not distant profits to be had but sustained on the practice of local production and consumption, that'd save heaps of wasted fuels moving things afar that are needed close at hand. Make a war on making high technology that will enrich every life by solving the switch to clean energy systems NOW, and stop keeping the US and world dependent on OIL. Or set an absolute int. price and fix those prices for anyone wanting to import into the country. Charity should be more than TV show self-congratulations 24/7…the real problems of poverty and hunger are growing, not lessening. Til every person is fed today and every homeless housed and every sick and disabled and elderly person put to bed and comforted every night and everyday, how can any claim to have done God's work so much so that they have time to tell everyone else about sin.
jc

Mike   August 18th, 2008 9:14 pm ET

Aren't all of Obama's supporters "left-of-center"? He's got the most liberal voting record of any U.S. Senator, for goodness sakes! Look it up. For all of you moderates out there, McCain is your man. He's far too liberal for my taste, but it comes down to the lesser of two weasels.

Bob   August 18th, 2008 9:13 pm ET

I'm humored to read some of these responses. Obama was an instructor on the Constitution, but why did he sell it up the river so quickly by giving Bush the right to spy on any American without oversight from FISA? Simple. He's a hypocrite. He'll sell our rights up the river the second he needs a vote. He does not truly care about anything other than his own grasp for power. Yet, why is this bad for a politician? It isn't. What is bad is that Mr. Obama has made it his goal to say he is nothing like that, and yet he acts just like that. He's a hypocrite who painted a great former president as nothing more than a card-carrying member of the KKK just so he could win. That is why Mr. Obama will never, ever get my vote — because he is the dirtiest politician you could ever meet. He will kiss your hand and stab your back in the same motion.

p0s3r   August 18th, 2008 9:13 pm ET

Translation:
"Imma chameleon and I change my spots on demand, and you're gonna like it, Sweetie!"

lot   August 18th, 2008 9:12 pm ET

John mcain will turn 72 years old later this month. He is almost dead. Why do think young people would put a dead body in the white hose?
Give up you crazy repbubs and execpt change!!!!!!!

gaytexanexile   August 18th, 2008 9:12 pm ET

I don't know about being wrong or right, but America trust yourselves again and help one another, not the banks. Why bail out the big boys, but so seldom solve the myriad problems daily plaguing the poor? Ever notice that in Henry Ford's day's a worker got $5 per day for 8 hours work, but he could buy one of his cars for $200 and build a house without banks at all for $1000. How come today everyone just pays pays pays and so many work work work and end up with nothing?
best wishes America,
jc

GG   August 18th, 2008 9:09 pm ET

"Feisty." Par for the course. Glad he likes 'em feisty. Those uppity women…

Another grumpy old white woman for Obama   August 18th, 2008 9:08 pm ET

We live in an ever changing world. Even the planet is changing. As events unravel what would have worked yesterday may not work today.
Obstinacy is not a virtue. We have had enough stubborn ignorance.
Any issue deserves full consideration before making a decision.
In order to know the situation you have to look at it from all sides.
Had this been done we would not be in debt up to our eyebrows to China for a war based on lies. Had the Congress and the Senate informed themselves rather than listening to a despotic moron and making an easy decision our country would not be broken, we would not be disrespected by the rest of the world and maybe Osama would have been history. Shooting first and asking questions later might be fun in a cowboy movie but not in todays world.
Think about it.
Obama does.

Marni Parker   August 18th, 2008 9:08 pm ET

After all these months, I still don't know what Obama is really for. Just as soon as I think I have it figured out, he flips, flops, or compromises. Above all, he is a politician and excellent speaker but trustworthy?

I don't like McCain either and am forced, once again, to pick the least of two evils rather than voting FOR someone.

Anybody out there have another choice?

Peter   August 18th, 2008 9:08 pm ET

Feisty?
Terrible. misogynistic, sexist, demeaning to small female persons with short hair!
I can't believe he said that!
This is typical of the MSM and their attacks on women - horrible. Its just another dig directed at Hillary. Will it never stop?

If I sound nuts, its because I am trying to illustrate how these pretend Democrats that are actually hard right Republican shills and the so called PUMA Democrats sound. GROW UP and demostrate some integrity!

RB   August 18th, 2008 9:07 pm ET

RJ et.al, the Obama Nation book has already been discredited as junk. Tell me you're more intelligent than to take it as gospel? Tell me you didn't spend your hard earned money on it? Tell me you're not dumb enough to think that we are dumb enough to spend our hard earned money on it?

What a cuttie!   August 18th, 2008 9:06 pm ET

After Saturdays moral debate I finaly decided who to vote for John McCain. What a cuttie! Got to love this old man.

James   August 18th, 2008 9:06 pm ET

Why haven't we seen any stories envolving McCain's children from his first marriage?

Could it be that they don't respect him? Are they refusing to be interviewed or are McCain's koolaid sippers, the mainstream media, protecting him like they did Edwards by not bringing attention to his adulterous past? Did McCain threaten them not to make any public statements?

Or that they are following the golden rule-

If you can't say anything nice, then don't say anything at all. I think that lack of support says volumes about not only McCain's family values but also his morals and his ethics.

Brendan Lind   August 18th, 2008 9:05 pm ET

Good Work!
OBama!

Rave   August 18th, 2008 9:05 pm ET

That supporter must be Rush Limbaugh's follower who believes Bush is the God until Nov 08 and McCain will be the god for next 4 years. On the other hand he will be close to loosing his job, home, wife, car…but he will continue to worship McCain - because God said so.
Unbelievable, Unbelievable… Super idiots we have.
The real God must be hating them.
OBAMA (2008 -16)

Nick   August 18th, 2008 9:03 pm ET

All of you who buy Obama's "Change" - what has he changed in Illinois? He is a party guy, never rocked the boat, doesn't stand for anything that won't get him elected. Is too rich to relate to the poor and will say and do whatever he has to to get elected. Come on guys, Obama's a sham!

Republican for Obama   August 18th, 2008 9:02 pm ET

This country is consumed with the Veruca Salt attitude, "I want this and I want it NOW!" Obama understands that without compromise nothing happens. Guess what's happened in Congress over the last several decades? You got it, nothing!

Half the country feels one way and half the other, without compromise we are at a stalemate. The same holds true for the hold out Clinton supporters. Half the Democrats wanted Clinton and slightly more than half wanted Obama, so now the Clinton supporters pull a Veruca Salt moment, "If I can't get my way then I'll show you and vote McCain!" Where does that land us? The same place we've been, and look how rosy our outlook is.

PS for those not familiar, Veruca Salt is the spoiled girl in Willie Wonka that insists on getting what she wants when she wants it. We are better than this America, lets grow up and put the country before our selfish feelings.

68 year old   August 18th, 2008 9:01 pm ET

I have seen quite a few politicians ! All of you wanting change or an "anointed one" are in for a disappointment .They all tell you a fine line and then do as they please to retain their office and power ! Promises and ideals are cheap pawns for these people. Expect just another politician !

Agree!!!   August 18th, 2008 9:00 pm ET

To-Debby It was almost word for word what McCain said when questioned about the school system.That means they agree!!!

What?   August 18th, 2008 9:00 pm ET

CNN you have did it again…end your comments to early……………..I understand McCain camp is whining….ops….complaining again, but I hope you will allow someone to answer these questions for us: McCain for 'rich' definition ” McCain responded that it should be defined by a home, a good job, education and “the ability to hand our children a safer and more prosperous world…”Weekend comment by John McCain that the minimum income for “rich” making $5 million a year.
———————————————————————————————–
I hope those hundreds of workers hear or read your blog that lose their job at McCain’s millionaire wife company. If i’m not mistaken didn’t hundreds of them lose their jobs to save the company thousands and do anyone know if anyone at Cindy's company (of course excluding his self and her employment status), make this so call rich $5 million a year?

Wake up McCain, you are so out of touch with the same voters you say you care about, We NEED a President that will be able to relate and care about the majority of us, that is the 98% of us that never made $5 million and with this negative financially and jobless economy ran by the present White House administration and you (voting 95% of the time with Bush) by continuing the direction of the Bush 3rd term, we will be blessed if we make $5 hr……….Must be nice to dream of that kind minimum income……..if only you wanted to be President for the RICH.

PRESIDENT OBAMA……… PLEASEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE

JJ   August 18th, 2008 8:59 pm ET

I thought Obama was the, Candidate of Change.

In a government of compromise, no one gets what they want and everyone has to execpt something less. The losers are usually the people.

I know how government works but I was hoping for real change. Change for the benefit of the people and not the special interests.

It sound like Mr. Obama is just offering more of the same, only in a different package.

I appeal to everyone to make their choice based on what they believe is right for America.

America First!

Cindy   August 18th, 2008 8:57 pm ET

He's saying he doesn't mind discourse, he doesn't want a sheep constituency. Question, challenge him. And, he's not going to back down and pander either.

All the candidates get questions from disengenuous audiences… even Chelsea got them. She didn't let them take over the convesation, she answered back. Obama does the same, and with respect… without backing off of his position. Is that not what you want from a president? Bravo, Mr. President.

poggi11   August 18th, 2008 8:56 pm ET

Someone please ask him what he would do if Iraq slides back into chaos. Would he keep his definitive promise to pull out of Iraq and leave that country to rot? Or, would he roll back on his "core principle" thing and compromise as any would-be leader in the White House would likely do? At the end of the day, pragmatism defines the moment and big promises are simply all about getting elected.

Rick from Pa   August 18th, 2008 8:56 pm ET

Don't forget Reverend Wright:
I can no longer leave Reverend Wright than I could leave the black community.
Please………

pekopper   August 18th, 2008 8:56 pm ET

I think the best thing to do is elect Progressives to Congress at every opportunity. Barack will follow the will of the "people" then. I hope.

Vote Progressive and nominate Caroline Kennedy as VP.

Paul in Cleveland

Heather   August 18th, 2008 8:56 pm ET

Yes, what are your core principles Obama?

I thought the enviroment was a core principle? Your back peddling on that. I thought being against spying on Americans was your core principle. Your back peddling on that. I thought Campaign Fianinace reform was your core principle. You back peddled on that too.

So yes! Please do tell us all what your core principles are! I would love to see them!

Doesn't like Kool-aid   August 18th, 2008 8:55 pm ET

Straight talker? He couldn't speak real well when he didn't have a telemprompter or soft-ball questions thrown his way the other night…hahaha. Ya, he's real smooth!!!
I like how all you Obamaphiles call McCain a murderer and warmonger when Obama signed a bill that allowed for babies who were born to be killed!!!!
Go ahead CNN, I know you won't post this.

Irene   August 18th, 2008 8:53 pm ET

I have yet to hear what GOOD "changes" Obama plans on making and I am an educated woman keeping up with the news. I've heard alot of talk, but that's all it is. What makes him qualified to be our President? He may be young with a good voice and make people "feel" like he's giving them hope. Lots of good sounding, well intentioned people claim to know what is good for another. But what real, solid facts has he presented to the American people to show us that he has accomplished good policies of any kind? What real experience does he have? Forget the divide of Democrats, Republicans, Independants -forget how he answers people's questions - get past the words that can come out of anyone's mouth - what has Obama accomplished in the past to show Americans he is the best chioce for President??

will nyc   August 18th, 2008 8:52 pm ET

Hey RJ,,, that book of lies you recommend would make good toilet wipe.

Phyllis   August 18th, 2008 8:51 pm ET

Similiar to hilodave, I got it as well. What a good description of Obama , " If you are to the right of Obama time to take the blinders off and realize that finally their is a candidate who is more forthright and less scripted and less controlled by special interests for the first time in 30 years."

Barack O'Blah Blah   August 18th, 2008 8:51 pm ET

Barack has a lot of sound bytes and stump speech gotcha's but when you peel it all the way - he is nothing more than a lip syncer uttering the words written by others. The junior senator has no substance and no experience that qualifies him to be president

Patrick   August 18th, 2008 8:48 pm ET

He is losing his most ardent supporters!

NO OBAMA YOU ARE WRONG!!!!

NYminute52   August 18th, 2008 8:48 pm ET

Obama worked the primary crowds telling them exactly what they wanted to hear. Now, with the nomination in hand, he has and will continue to change his mind faster and more often than he changes his underwear. Can anyone say Jimmy Carter? Another president who was going to change the country………right. Truth is, there is much, much more to politics and the way Washington works than most even know. Change isn't a word that's very popular and it can take YEARS to make any that are substantial. He won't change much, that is, IF he actually wins the White House!

Andrew   August 18th, 2008 8:44 pm ET

Obama could tell his supporters they are mindless idiots and they'd say, "Oh you know what, i think he's kind of right. We are.." I suppose it is good to compromise; albeit they have already compromised their intelligence by voting for such a silver tongue. Oh well.

A-Sun Truth   August 18th, 2008 8:44 pm ET

"Obama is just as much a politician as every other."

Nolan…when have you ever heard a political candidate speak of compromise.

Have you ever compromised with a person you loved? I really hope so.

None of the Above 08   August 18th, 2008 8:44 pm ET

Compromise is a necessity in a government like ours. It has always occurred. And will always occur. That is just how things get done.

Both Clinton and McCain have reached across the aisle numerous times in their political lives.

Obama saying he will compromise is not the same as action proving the same.

But then this is the Messiah here and his words are more than "just words", right?

PGC   August 18th, 2008 8:43 pm ET

Someone confident enough to say exactly what he thinks without worrying about ruffling the feathers of potential voters? Say, maybe I should rethink this whole campaign. One person talks straight and the other says what he thinks people want to hear. Hmmm.

Cecil   August 18th, 2008 8:43 pm ET

Corwin7

Who's Been Running The Stupid and bous Attack Ads, over and over!
Sen. McCain Can't Stand The Truth.

If You Don't Like Sen. Obama Policies, That's Ok.

The Republican party has a very Nasty History That They Shouldn't Be Proud Of, But They Are.

They Continue To Lie, Cheat, Tear Down, Divide.
That's Why This Party Hasn't Grown. Still 95% White People Supported

gaytexanexiled   August 18th, 2008 8:42 pm ET

When Obama is ready to take on the megachurches' taxfree statuses, and when he's ready to take on big business and big banks who hold defacto ownership of America's citizens homes, and stop the exploitation of the working man by outsourcing to the cheapest bidders abroad rather than going for the better quality made locally, and when he's ready to advocate profit-sharing at work for each and every American worker, and when he truly understands that separation of church and state mean precisely that….then we'll see progress again in the USA.
Give each man the right to own a place to call home lifelong that neither bank, nor tax collector, nor heavy bullies can seize, and then we'll have strong families again. Pay all workers their share of each companies' profits, and severely restrict stock market derivatives profiteering in the greatest casino game of all time, and then each family can live frugally, but sustainably and well. Then parents will have real time for family life again, and the snake oil salesmen won't be needed.
I've got a compromise. Dump all politicians and practice local production and consumption, that'd save heaps of wasted fuels moving things afar that are needed close at hand.
Give back to America but trust yourselves again and help one another, not the banks. Ever notice that in Henry Ford's day's a worker got $5 per day for 8 hours work, but he could buy one of his cars for $200 and build a house without banks at all for $1000. How come today everyone just pays pays pays and so many work work work and end up with nothing?
best wishes America,
jc

wilfred   August 18th, 2008 8:41 pm ET

B.O. 's core principle is to get elected at all costs , He must of went to the Clinton school of BS .

John   August 18th, 2008 8:41 pm ET

What the hell is wrong with some of you? sugar coated bs? "their foots already been shot and the bullet was Obama."

I would love to see a single one of you say those things to his face instead of hiding behind your computer screens. Nothing you said was constructive. Nothing you said promotes anything but hostility and hate.

This country is going down the toilet and all you can do is sucker punch the one candidate who is a vehicle for change. Sure. Vote McCain because you're bitter Hillary lost! Get over it! You're as hypocritcal as the candidate you claim to support.

TN for Obama   August 18th, 2008 8:40 pm ET

Moderator, the GOP can reach out and control CNN too????

My, my…..I'm shocked they think they can control CNN like they do all the media. But then again, Ms. Brown seems to already be in their hands
: - (

Reverend said "he's in a cone of silence…" How sad the clergy are already telling lies for the GOP.

doug   August 18th, 2008 8:39 pm ET

Any congress critter that votes a single cent for any thing is pro war. Obama is just as pro war as Bush or McCain or Hillary

Larry K.   August 18th, 2008 8:38 pm ET

If Hillary had come out and said the same thing, none of the Hillary supporters would have found any faults with the statement.

Same with McCain supporters.

Point is, this isn't even newsworthy, much less something to debate over. His response was logical, truthful, and intelligent. If you find fault in it, either you are biased or dumb.

Pick one. Either way, you should probably just be quiet.

tcm   August 18th, 2008 8:38 pm ET

He said she was wrong. She just asked a question, how could she be wrong? He's an idiot.

Obama For President   August 18th, 2008 8:37 pm ET

There is nothing wrong with compromising…we have for far too long dealt with presidents who stood steadfast and refused to give an inch, which has done nothing to push their agendas. We need a president who will listen to both sides and make decisions in the interest of Americans. Pig headedness will simply not work. McCain will only continue with the Bush dynasty. OBAMA CAN DO WHAT MCCAIN CAN'T AND WON'T DO.

None of the Above 08   August 18th, 2008 8:37 pm ET

Ummm,

Didn't BUSH Jr. essentially send the exact same message when he ran in 2000?

Haven't people been criticizing McCain for making very similar strong statements?

And what the heck is Negoating? What have goats got to do with elections? I thought the Dem animal was a donkey and the GOP animal an elephant?

CTP   August 18th, 2008 8:35 pm ET

Hey Obama, don't pay any attention to the haters on this blog. They're either dumb, bitter, racist, or all three. We know you're the straight talker and we appreciate it.

YES WE WILL!!! OBAMA '08!!!

Anyone but these 2   August 18th, 2008 8:35 pm ET

If one of his "core principles" is that our privacy should not be protected by the Constitution, then he's not fit to be president, period.

Vote third party. Let them know it's time for real change.

K of TX   August 18th, 2008 8:32 pm ET

It seems that the REAL question should not be is Sen. Obama prepared to be President, but are WE ready to have a President so prepared?

Obama '08

Phil   August 18th, 2008 8:32 pm ET

At least he didn't call her sweetie. Hes come so far !!!!!!!

SonnyD   August 18th, 2008 8:32 pm ET

Who is this guy, anyway?

An Illinois state legislator…

A short stint in Congress…

OK, so he gives a great speech, but…

No military background…

No foreign policy experience…

Why would anyone think he could be President?

Abraham Lincoln
16th President, United States of America

-that we here highly resolve that these dead shall not have died in vain–that this nation, under God, shall have a new birth of freedom–and that government of the people, by the people, for the people, shall not perish from the earth.

robc   August 18th, 2008 8:32 pm ET

That's why I voted for him. Anyone that follow's politics knows that if you don't compromise, you end up with gridlock and nothing gets done. In order to change, you've got to negotiate and compromise. That's one of many reasons why I didn't vote for Hillary–she's polarizing, a relentless fighter, and ultimately wouldn't be able to get anything done.

Go Barack!

Wisest one of All   August 18th, 2008 8:32 pm ET

The empty suit is lying again. No surprise there! Hussein Nobama would be the left wing George Bush. Proven fact!

You can be both, Kim   August 18th, 2008 8:31 pm ET

Oh Kim Hussein… so funny:
"For all you Obama people Missouri is in the middle of the united states."

hee hee, that's funny, see, cuz you're implying we obamabots are dumb. that is just soo dang HI-LARIOUS!!!!

i thought we were a bunch of latte-drinking, volvo-driving, college-educated elitists?!?!?!!?

i'm so confused, i dont even know who i AM anymore!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

______________________________________________________
Kim,
Intelligence is inborn- it has nothing to do with drinking lattes or having money and going to college. American colleges are now no better than high school in other parts of the world….

So yes… you can be a latte drinking rich enough to go to college dumb elitist. And you just proved it.

NOBAMA   August 18th, 2008 8:30 pm ET

Hope Obama can give a more detailed explanation at the debates.

Obama supporters, why can't you see that his answers are always so worthlessly stated?? Does this guy stand for anything other than vague responses and popularity??

papadibite   August 18th, 2008 8:29 pm ET

Brian..you seem to not having anything sensible to say…You are the reason why the US is in peril now because you do not follow common sense and logical people with the wisdom to put the Great United States back to her respectable plasce on this planet Earth. Rather, you make the same statement for every single article on this page…Rather nonsensical…why not say SOMETHING WORTH READING Rather than continue to spread propaganda and falsehoods…NUFF SAID….

Nolan   August 18th, 2008 8:27 pm ET

Its about time people are starting to see through the "change" facade. Obama is just as much a politician as every other. You can't insult an unpopular government all year and then expect to enact "change" in the same people you have belittled. Like always, the Democrats will shoot themselves in the foot. This election year, the supposed year of Democrats, a moderate Republican WHO is ACTUALLY bipartisan will win the White House. The only thing Democrats don't realize is…their foots all ready been shot and the bullet was Obama.

RJ, CA   August 18th, 2008 8:27 pm ET

Read "The Obama Nation" and you'll begin to understand a LOT about this guy, Obama!

joe   August 18th, 2008 8:26 pm ET

What a creep. He talks down to everyone and says whatever is convenient in the moment. He let us down — but he doesn't care because we already got him past the primaries and now he doesn't need all of us to win the general…well fine dude…you lost my vote — on principal — I could never vote for someone with such low morals, such an ego and no loyalty to those he lied to that got him elected.

John from LA   August 18th, 2008 8:24 pm ET

Sounds like the ship is beginning to sink-are some of the bots seeing through the veil???-who's behind the curtain????hmmmmmmmm

Can't stand his sanctimonious, condescending tone to all who question "the Messiah"-he's always right-…WRONG!!!

Terry, NJ   August 18th, 2008 8:24 pm ET

Koolaid man. I'm not voting for you… Simple. Hillary I would have voted for. You, no way. So I have the choice of writing in Hillary or voting for NJ. I'll be voting for McCain because I want my vote to count against all you're sugar coated BS.

Jake, New York   August 18th, 2008 8:23 pm ET

Raymond Duke,

I couldn't help but notice you finished your second sentence with "the United States." Key word: United. Perhaps instead of presuming that millions of people you've never met are completely ignorant you could express your thoughts in an intelligent, constructive manner that encourages discussion and debate instead of mud-slinging and name calling. Where is the unity in these United States? Why are we wasting time tearing each other down when we should be lifting each other up?

BRAD   August 18th, 2008 8:23 pm ET

I WANNA SEE ONE ON ONE HANNITY AND OBAMA… HANNITY AND OBAMA, … COME ON PEOPLE LET GET THIS STARTED, HE IS THE ONLY ONE IN THE PRESS BESIDES OREILLY, THAT STANDS UP AGAINST HIM, EVERY ONE ELSE IS AFRAID OF HIM. I THINK IF YOU PEOPLE AT CNN SHOWED MORE DIVERSITY BETWEEN CANDIDATES YOU ALL COULD HAVE IT MADE, UNFORTUNATELY, I THINK PEOPLE MAINLY WATCH CNN, IS TO HEAR ANDERSON COOPER, ONLY PERSON LEFT THERE WITH DIGNITY FOR, THE REAL FACTS AND DIVERSITY…. THANKS BRAD

trups   August 18th, 2008 8:23 pm ET

For once, let us agree on one thing. It takes 2 hands to clap, period. BO wants to end this bickering and find a happy medium in as many an issue important to the American people. What is wrong with that? As regards to Americans NEVER satisfied with what they can get versus what they WILL get if they vote the other way, think deeper, only this time WEARING BOTH SHOES.

Those who write here making snide and quirky remarks, beware,,,, whatever happens will affect EVERYONE, you included.

Dave   August 18th, 2008 8:22 pm ET

I prefer a President who never negotiates or changes their mind. I want their brain hard-wired to the point where they don't even think. When it comes to compromise, I want them to pound their fist on the table, demonize their opponents, and never waver. If my President says the earth is flat and it is proven to be round, I want my President to dedicate all resources to flattening or destroying the earth so that his views are correct. If he is a Democrat and the Republicans in congress want him to modify his or her position, I want him to walk into their chambers with machine guns and kill all of them.

JOHN   August 18th, 2008 8:21 pm ET

HMMMMMMMMMMMM, IF YOU'RE READING THAT BOOK OF LIES BY THE MORON, REMEMBER HE ALSO SAID THAT JOHN MCLAME WAS NOT FIT TO BE P.O.T.U.S. I AGREE, BUT HE'S STILL A MORON. THE OBAMANATION A BOOK OF LIES BY A, DID I SAY MORON.

J.C.   August 18th, 2008 8:20 pm ET

Obama tells supporter: 'You're wrong,"…

I wish Obama could have been as direct when he answered Pastor Warren's question on whether or not life begins at conception. That should not have been a political question.

Selected not elected   August 18th, 2008 8:19 pm ET

Always the first to tell others that they are wrong… and the last to actually ever DO anything but brag about his good judgement.

Jean   August 18th, 2008 8:19 pm ET

Obama talks in circles.. Always tells people they were not listening. I am a democrat and Obama hasn't a chance of winning the white house. He has no political experience. Where is Hillary when we need her……… She would have been way up in the poles. And Hillary could have beat McCain hands down…. Instead we have Obama talking in circles and not answering questions straight….I will go with McCain this time and hope Hillary runs again in 2012…..

Phantom of the Oprah   August 18th, 2008 8:15 pm ET

Condescending AND beyond criticism… yep that is Obama the perfect one.

Buck12   August 18th, 2008 8:14 pm ET

Once again Obama proves that we have NO CLUE as to the type of president he'd be or principles he'll stand for if he goes in office….so vague and tripe his position always is. He's all about image.

Hitler youth for Obama   August 18th, 2008 8:14 pm ET

Another staged event to make Obama appear to have a backbone and to pretend that his supporters are not just stooges for the dictator.

But insisting that he is always right… well it is kinda making the point of his belief of his own omnipotence.

Chuck   August 18th, 2008 8:13 pm ET

You can tell fairy tells to children about growing up and marrying a prince too, but, that doesn't mean you can make it happen for them.

This man is selling fairy tales, he doesn't even have the political clout to control the party and convention and you think he's going to work "miracles" in Washington?

Wake up and stop drinking the kool aide.

Phil Newton Murphy, Oregon   August 18th, 2008 8:11 pm ET

Right on.

We gotta cross the aisle.

OBAMA 08!

Matt from L.A.   August 18th, 2008 8:10 pm ET

and then I misspelled smart alec!

I'm fired.

Anyway, I'm fine with what Obama had to say. It could come off as a bit condescending or sexist though if he was addressing a woman and said "I like me a feisty gal!"

Blind loyalty to a demagogue   August 18th, 2008 8:09 pm ET

Obama is always right.

He can do no wrong.

He never changes his position… just refines it according to what polls well.

Susan from Scotts Valley, CA   August 18th, 2008 8:09 pm ET

I think it's great that he's willing to compromise. That's what it takes to get things done some times. Versus our current administration that doesn't care what America thinks. And McCain will be four more years of the same. McCain's stubborness and arrogance is so obviously. He doesn't even try to hide it. Drill, drill, drill. War, war, war.

Rick   August 18th, 2008 8:09 pm ET

Hey Raymond Duke:

It's the United States…a proper noun, for you Republicans.

Hypocrits for Obama   August 18th, 2008 8:08 pm ET

Every one is always wrong- except Obama.

He sees himself and all his lies, hypocrisy and flip-flops as perfect and with perfect vision and perfect judgement. He can justify all things in a very sincere way.

Some of us are not convinced or taken.

Obamabots… you defended Obama as he defended his loyalty to Wright… and then you all blindly defended Obama as he denounced Wright when Wright became a political liability to him.

Same thing with his Church and FISA and campaign finance reform… and he won't admit he was wrong about the surge…

Is there any time you will concede that Obama is wrong… or do you buy his hype hook, line and sinker?

Dana   August 18th, 2008 8:07 pm ET

The CNN moderator of this blog is biased and Pro-Obama, will not post my comments. Socialistic behavior, stamping out the voices of Americans who value their freedom of speech.

Democrat for McCain

P.S. Moderator, we can prove this and it may mean your job!

hilodave   August 18th, 2008 8:06 pm ET

shaking my head
Where in his statement didn't he answer the women's question. I got it why didn't you. If you are to to left of Obama you better realize he is the only hope this country has to salvage the last eight years and move forward towards real change and yes, compromise is part of the equation. If you are to the right of Obama time to take the blinders off and realize that finally their is a candidate who is more forthright and less scripted and less controlled by special interests for the first time in 30 years.

Grandma   August 18th, 2008 8:05 pm ET

Obama fpr 2008 we need change and we need you

Corwin7   August 18th, 2008 8:05 pm ET

Yeah that's him…Barak Obama…the candidate of "change you can negotiate" I suppose. Funny how he is willing to "compromise" with the Republican party thats trashed our country for 8 years but can't find it in his capability to compromise with the half of the democratic party that would "vote for somebody else" isn't it? Anyone else here seeing the bilge water rising on Barak Obama's presidency?

Necie in OKC   August 18th, 2008 8:05 pm ET

Tell me the Truth! Plain, Simple without all the schmoozing,spin and sugar coating. Even if I don't like the answer, I will always respect you for being straight with me.

Thanks Sen Obama!!!

Denise from Brooklyn, New York, USA   August 18th, 2008 8:05 pm ET

Obama's condescending response if offensive. He has a tendency to beat around the bush instead of answering the question. His responses are unsatisfactory and his platform empty.

Bayou Joe   August 18th, 2008 8:05 pm ET

Will the real Barak Obama please stand up. Which one do you like
the Socialist/Marxist candidate in the primary or the Moderate Patriotic
candidate emerging now that Hillary is out of the picture.

Thank you Hillary for the Expose'. Thank you Howard Dean for destroying the Democratic Party. I hope you rot in hell.

DR. YES   August 18th, 2008 8:04 pm ET

raymond duke.arent you related to david duke?i can tell by your comments, that have little to do with the topic of the thread.

BRAD   August 18th, 2008 8:02 pm ET

JUST AS THE REST OF OBAMA'S MESSAGES COMES ACROSS, ALOT OF RHETORIC, NO SPECIFIED ANSWER'S. HOW CAN ME AND MY FELLOW FRIENDS VOTE FOR SOMEONE WHO LACKS SPECIFICITY.. BRAD, FL

Hypocrits for Obama   August 18th, 2008 8:01 pm ET

This is for the campaign debt blog.

To those who blog that Obama has asked his supporters to help pay off Hillary's debt but you just are not listening to him.

How grown up…

Hillary has asked her supporters to back Obama… we are just not listening to her… we want our efforts to go towards putting a true and qualified leader in the white house.

Do you like that attitude? Then stop with your silly childish intra-party hatred. You obama supporters are such childish tit for taters…

And… the loser's debt… well it is basically the party debt- all for one, one for all that sort of thinking. I guess not for the "new" democrats

Sue   August 18th, 2008 8:01 pm ET

I grew up in a blue state. Went to graduate school in Missouri, and live in a red state. I am blue through and through, and a 100% supporter of Obama. The only straight talker running for office.

Tennessee Mike   August 18th, 2008 8:00 pm ET

Of course she was wrong. Obama knows EVERYHING! - LMAO

Matt from L.A.   August 18th, 2008 7:59 pm ET

oh, man, I tried to be a smart alack and then misspelled Atlanta!

James   August 18th, 2008 7:59 pm ET

McCain is a liar. He "borrowed" the cross story and he had information on the so called forum before he took stage.

Obama is the straight talker.

The problem is that too many in the Republican base don't actively follow politics and go with the guy who makes it simple for them (synonym for direct answer and straight talk) and sticks to waving the flag.

Lesley   August 18th, 2008 7:59 pm ET

Obama didn't suggest that the lady wasn't listening. He said she was feisty and that he liked that, it was a compliment for the forceful way she expressed herself. Please stop shaking your head. Your brains are getting rattled.

Erika, KS   August 18th, 2008 7:58 pm ET

You can bet that if Obama does win, everyone will be wrong but him. Kind of reminds me of GW Bush with all that arrogance and how he knows what "right" for the rest of us.

I hope the ego driven fool crashes and burns come November.

Sacto Joe   August 18th, 2008 7:58 pm ET

Why is "compromise" a dirty word? Because George W. and Senator McCain won't?

Well, look where that's gotten us!

It's time to put someone in office who can GET THINGS DONE!

Matt from L.A.   August 18th, 2008 7:57 pm ET

NEGOATING is a popular form of racing in Nebraska where human "goat jockeys" ride goats. Nice bit of obscure knowledge, Sherry from Atalanta!

JMV, NY   August 18th, 2008 7:56 pm ET

It's funny how everyone likes the idea of reaching across the aisle until it's put into practice. Like it or not, Senator Obama told you EXACTLY how he plans on governing. If you want a government that's responsible to its citizens, vote Obama. If you want a president who never waivers from his party's dogma (whether or not it's good for the country), vote for the other guy.

Anonymous   August 18th, 2008 7:56 pm ET

"…as long as you understand what your core principles"

It's funny to hear Obama mention 'Core Principles' considering he has none except for raising tax and being against the war in Iraq.

Brian   August 18th, 2008 7:55 pm ET

"NO, OBAMA, YOU WILL N - O - T WIN! Because everyone is now reading "The Obama Nation" and finding out what kind of a shyster you really are!"

LOL…… I'm sure the author has some houses he wants to sell you at 2006 prices!

kim hussein t