August 27, 2008
Posted: August 27th, 2008 11:54 PM ET

From
Biden waves from the stage with his family Wednesday night.
Biden waves from the stage with his family Wednesday night.

(CNN) – One of the reasons a strategist never sits in a stadium and get caught up in the crowds - and never sits watching a debate in person - is because the vast majority of American voters watch these political events on television

And while Joe Biden's speech was received well in the convention hall, I am not sure how it will play with most voters at home. It was largely a pedestrian speech, and I don't think was a great first impression for a lot of people.

The Democrats will come out with a unified convention and go into battle. But the idea that the vice presidential candidate is someone who can lend credibility to his nominee to be a commander in chief is wrong. At the end of the day, the country has to make a decision. Who is the leader, who has the experience to be a leader and who can take us to the next decade?

That's what voters get to decide in about ten weeks.

Filed under: Democratic National Convention • Joe Biden


kebs   August 28th, 2008 4:56 am ET

IF THEY SHUT-UP AND LISTEN TO THE SPEAKERS THEY WILL GET BIDEN WAS SAYING. WE DON'T WANT THEIR PERSONAL OPINIONS

Elinn   August 28th, 2008 4:54 am ET

America, it's time to make history, people will come together and the country will be much stronger this time around..vote Dem

bernard mahoney   August 28th, 2008 4:32 am ET

well thats all you get from the republicans , negitive , negitive , negitive , becouse they have nothing left . they cant talk about their achevements there are none . their record is terrible . the economy is terrible the war is costing trillians way more than any tax hike to the wealthy taxdodgers. binladen is free , alkieda is stronger than ever . they the gop are weak on national security , they ignored the intellengence that led to the us being attacked . the gop isent strong on defence just becouse they say so or national security just becouse they say so . i wish the media would be fair to the dems stop parroting the gop on national they arnt strong on national security just becouse they say so . infact their record on national security is terrible we were attacked under the republicans end of story . please media be fair on this issue . obarma/biden 08 beciuse we not stupit .

Mike, Vancouver   August 28th, 2008 4:28 am ET

Ed, I watched the speech on TV here in Canada. This speech was very good considering it is like putting on a new pair of socks, they are not necessarily comfortable yet.

Yes people will pick at every little thing they can find to bring Joe down. These people are the ones who cannot make the change and are comfortable in their own underwear.

Change does not come without an emotional response. I saw many , many individuals in the Pepsi center with tears in their eyes today and they were not limited to any one race, age group, gender, etc.... this party's engine has ignited and going in the same direction.

Any who are not going that way, go home and get out of the way, we are not going to appease you any more. If that means voting for McCain, so be it. they are now your problem.

The speeches will get better, the focus will increase and the intensity of the attack on the Republicans will be relentless.

If what you are saying is the worst that Joe Biden can do, watch out, he now has time to aim the cross hairs to the target.

commy   August 28th, 2008 4:13 am ET

i think his sppeech was great,mc cain is a frustrated old man who has decided 2 use negative ad's to campaign,we will bring the american people nothing but boring speeches he reads from pieces of papers.

sandra   August 28th, 2008 4:10 am ET

For me it won't be McCain.

Hope over hopelessness any day!!!!

Bill   August 28th, 2008 4:10 am ET

No one cares about the DNC! Boring!!!!!!

Tracy, Buffalo NY   August 28th, 2008 3:46 am ET

No one can speak like Barack and few like Hillary, but Joe did a good job. At least 10X better than McCain ever could. I can see Biden gaining momentum quickly.

I love the quote "Like a swiss army knife with an Alienware laptop." from TonyInKentucky.

Biden has expertise, experience and can be on the cutting edge at the same time. I expect better and better speeches from him. He will tear Mccain to shreds, especially whoever McCain picks for his VP- that person should run and hide.

brian   August 28th, 2008 3:46 am ET

Great speech, great future VP.

Dave Morgan   August 28th, 2008 3:38 am ET

Joe Biden is somebody that does his homework. Someone who has first hand knowledge about overcoming family tragedies, launching competent, strategic battles in the Congress, fully understands world dynamics, both diplomatic and military, and is a jet blast of fresh air in an era replete with blowhards, ideologues and just plain stupid people, none of whom do their homework.

Margaret   August 28th, 2008 3:26 am ET

I thought his speech was great. There was a lot of substance to what he said. I didn't know much about Biden before tonight, now I truly respect the man who always put his family first and knows what all of America is facing thanks to the current administration.

McCain=Bush & the return of the draft   August 28th, 2008 3:20 am ET

I thought the speech was excellent, and I look forward to hearing more from him.

Carolyn   August 28th, 2008 3:17 am ET

I thought he was wonderful and genuine. He called it like he saw it. Good fo you Joe and a very big welcome to you and your lovely family.

TonyInKentucky   August 28th, 2008 3:15 am ET

Solid to good but not spectacular.

That's okay, Biden is like a Swiss Army knife with an Alienware laptop included. Biden is one of the most knowledgeable people in the world and works for the American people.

Biden is to help govern and almost no matter who you are you trust Biden in that capacity.

Joyce   August 28th, 2008 3:11 am ET

Biden's speech was absolutely DULL. Brevity doesn't seem to be in his vocabulary. BLACK female liberal voting and campaigning for McCain. Hope he puts a female on the ticket if not Liberman.

ktloss, Laguna Beach CA   August 28th, 2008 3:11 am ET

I watched Joe Biden deliver his speech on television tonight. I can report to you, Mr. Rollins, that his energy, sincerity, humor, & intensity came across in full force. I've watched and listened to Joe Biden for years. This was Joe Biden at his best. It played well in TV land...no doubt about it! We've got a winning ticket this year...and it's about time!

Ken   August 28th, 2008 3:07 am ET

Biden was Obama's wrong choice and will cause Obama to lose against McCain. It will be his own fault.

Biden last night acted so smug along side Michelle Obama which like Biden, acted smug as well.

Biden's speech was really not exciting, nor did it move me to change the way I think. Hillary Clinton should have been the nominee, and the "Super Delegates will realize their mistake when Obama loses to McCain, and the Democrat Party will NOT win back the White House!

Obama08   August 28th, 2008 3:04 am ET

Biden's speech was fantastic...all of you whined about getting down to the nuts and bolts which he did and now you want rhetoric. You guys are just too full of yourself.

Tired   August 28th, 2008 2:56 am ET

To: Dean

That explains it. Ever since Obama announced his VP. The blogs have been increasingly, and overwhelmingly negative towards Obama. More than the normal negativity. So the Repubs are working overtime to divide us.

braggingrights   August 28th, 2008 2:51 am ET

This is another retard "Republican Strategist Ed Rollins" who cant keep his thoughts to himself!. The Reps are pathetic goons!

tsolow   August 28th, 2008 2:46 am ET

Biden's strength doesn't appear to be speaking. He wasn't bad but he took his time gaining momentum and he finished strongly.

I think he'll be exceptional in debates (he was at the dem debates), He also seems to be able to inject humor into any issue to great effect.

SusieQ   August 28th, 2008 2:39 am ET

I was a little worried before today about the Democratic convention, but not now.
I was a little worried when the press hammered on about how there wasn't party unity, but not now.
NO WAY, NO HOW, NO McCAIN!
WE CAN'T AFFORD 4 MORE YEARS OF THE LAST 8 YEARS!

Obama/Biden 2008

Shanee Garner   August 28th, 2008 2:35 am ET

It was amazing. Deeply personal and touching.

GO OBAMA/BIDEN

sandra-california   August 28th, 2008 2:24 am ET

IT SHOULD BE BIDEN/OBAMA 08! BUT THE BEST CHOICE IS MCCAIN NO MATTER WHO IS HIS VP.

Riley   August 28th, 2008 2:22 am ET

He is a great guy and anyone who says otherwise is lying. A REAL American hero. You don't have to spend 5 yrs as a POW to be a hero. He is a inspiration and a model American. No adultery there.

Chuck   August 28th, 2008 2:19 am ET

The speech was like sitting through a 20 minute "Why you should hate McCain" ad. Nothing new here, same old party rhetoric on a new stage.

YAWN.

Dick Cheney   August 28th, 2008 2:15 am ET

You say that a VP choice based on FP experience is a bad idea. Did you forget about me already?

Texas Witch Twister   August 28th, 2008 2:03 am ET

Biden is a drag and a three time loser. Goodbye OBAMA.

kate   August 28th, 2008 2:01 am ET

I really liked it. This is a guy who is grounded, intelligent, and knowledgeable about the very challenges we face as a nation - exactly what I want in a VP.

He spoke honestly and directly - things it's nice for politicians to actually do from time to time. He demonstrated a clear understanding of foreign and domestic issues and framed the election in light of those key challenges.

Tim from Eugene OR.   August 28th, 2008 1:58 am ET

Why have you let a REPUBLICAN WRITE THIS STORY? Crawl back under your rocks republican bloggers. Your party has brought our nation down in every way!

pcb   August 28th, 2008 1:58 am ET

I thought the speech was great; very in depth in defining who Obama was as well as McCain. He clearly stated where we are as a nation from having "BUSHED" and McCain as leaders and a perspective leader. Compared to McCain's speeches, Biden spoke like Moses.

Congratulations to Obama-Biden! Godspeed!! Be blessed!!!!!!

Me in Texas   August 28th, 2008 1:56 am ET

He's no good he's not a speaker. He's now leaning how to speak the speech he wrote or someone else wrote. It's funny that Democrats picked the inexperience people and train them. Maybe they should hire Hillary to train them how to be a president and vice president.

Ambrose Smith, Borrego Springs, California   August 28th, 2008 1:53 am ET

I thought the speech was great and hit McCain hard. This is just a warm up!

I hope McCain chooses Romney-so Romney can show America how to use a blow dryer and a brush.

Biden will make him look like a fool.

caywen   August 28th, 2008 1:51 am ET

I take exception to the negativity here. Biden's speech worked really, really well. You just don't know it yet, but he doesn't speak to the same crowd that Obama speaks to. Tonight was Obama and Hillary's crowd – the well-connected and activist types.

Biden spoke to joe 6-pack who works an honest day. Trust me, tonight he spoke to millions of people who finally saw in this whole crazy circus someone they could identify with.

Ronald   August 28th, 2008 1:49 am ET

Yes they do have paid staffers whos jobs are to blog and post negative messages. Sad but this is becoming more and more effective. Both sides do it, the shame is how many of these fake posts make it through moderation.

Nevada dude   August 28th, 2008 1:48 am ET

you're right. the vice president doesnt count. neither does the President's cabinet. he runs the whole thing himself with no help. you're a freaking moron ed.

green, pa   August 28th, 2008 1:48 am ET

I thought Biden's speech was amazing! I am completely convinced that you "journalists" have no idea what you are talking about. His son was incredible as well and very moving.

OBAMA/BIDEN 08.... this country can't survive 4 more years

Ronald   August 28th, 2008 1:45 am ET

If your an every day Joe (no phun intended) then this was the speach you where waiting for all year. If your a pundit which almost by definition means your an intellectual elitest you didn't like it. Not enough high rehtoric. Personally I just want to hear "war bad, use as last result", "constituion good, use war to protect if needed". I got that message tonight.

Todd   August 28th, 2008 1:44 am ET

as someone getting to know joe biden, i have to say that speech appeared to be very moving, but i wasnt moved myself. i really wanted to jump on the train after the ringing endorsements by the clintons and apparent unity of the party. but that speech may have been touching and spoke to a different level than the rest of the campaign, i dont see the cohesiveness with obama's message. the pomp of the clintons speeches and the anticipation of obama tomorrow...this really fell flat for me. i cant help but feel like he made a horrible mistake. all i took from it is that biden has an incredible story, is a good man, and has plenty of experience. i fear obama felt that was enough, but in a race where people personally identify with their vote, it wont be. if we were just going to toe the party line, we would likely not need convincing in the first place. Opportunities Barack Arrogantly Missed Again.

texas democrat   August 28th, 2008 1:44 am ET

my mother always said a first impression is a lasting impression and i think his speech was wonderful. the thing is obama had the pick of the litter and no matter who he chose it was going to work . i am a happy american!

Not impressed   August 28th, 2008 1:40 am ET

In all honesty I think Biden's speech was weak. No wonder why he only got 2% of the primary vote.

Isaac   August 28th, 2008 1:39 am ET

I wonder if these threads will be so hard on McSame? Somehow I doubt it.

gigs   August 28th, 2008 1:33 am ET

i am shocked the mccain was not gracious in issuing a statement congratulating sen. obama and this country on this historic achievement.
he would rather win an election than give credit to a great american -barak obama.
this was an historic night and sen mccain should have acknowledged it.
this omission should be discussed by the "pundits" – i think it is a serious gaff by the mccain campaign.
it is disrespectful

Greg   August 28th, 2008 1:28 am ET

I missed the DNC for the third night in a row. I was watching paint dry..much more exciting.

TAKE OUR COUNTRY BACK 08   August 28th, 2008 1:26 am ET

Biden was great, and he knows what is like to have a love one fighting in a war made out lies.

for all of those politicians that supported the war in Iraq, shame of you. You would not dare sent one of you love ones (son, daughter, grandson, etc..) to fight a war build on lies.

Biden is the man and his family are true patriots.

Thomas   August 28th, 2008 1:21 am ET

Joe Biden was absolutely .... so so.
Well OK so we hoped he'd be great. Hey, he did his best.
What the hell. After 36 years in the senate what can you expect from this pampered white man?
But he's a man of the people right, because he rides the train. (Heavy sigh..give me a break!) Yeah, just one of the boys.

If this is the path to change, what do you think will be at the end of this trail for you and for me? - A big stinking pile of more of the same.
Come on! Think about it. we might try to continue to trust and vote for Obama if he's the man with the best ideas, but let me share a real idea guaranteed to make change in America. Do not vote for any person up for re-election!
No Incumbents, No exceptions! If we can do this, we will be guaranteed the change (and relief) we all hope for. Think about it.

Ann, Jacksonville, FL   August 28th, 2008 1:21 am ET

I think Biden did a good job – but I was VERY impressed with Kerry - I wish he had defended himself as strongly in 2004 as he attacked McCain and Bush tonight... He would have won if he had. Take that as a lesson – Obama's strategy of responding in less than 24 hours to EVERY attack by the Republicans is exactly what the Democrats need to do in EVERY race – from the President on down – this year.

e forest   August 28th, 2008 1:19 am ET

everyone i know thought biden was brilliant, as was both clintons to the dissapointment of repub negatives. mc cain will find the dems convention hard to beat ,the families of biden and obama are real people, mc cain will never emulate them. expect the repub convention to be more of the same ,lies, spin and very nasty ,what else would they have.

Paul from Nova Scotia Canada   August 28th, 2008 1:18 am ET

We live in Canada and believe me when i say Joe did a great job. he was easy to listen to and if i lived in the States i could relate to him in where he came from and his journey. Americans should not hesitate to take advantage of the quality of people such as Biden and Barack to lead their country and set an example for the rest of the world.

Odessa Hahto   August 28th, 2008 1:18 am ET

Listening to Joe Biden speak I sense that he like Obama is an honest man. I respect men like Obama and Joe Biden who stand up for what they feel is right and what they belive in; they stand up to evil and wickness in high places. Listening to John Macann speak make me think that he is a confussed old man that cannot remember his addresses.

Carol Michigan   August 28th, 2008 1:18 am ET

Not everyone can be a rock star standing infront of 70,000 people but I think he did just fine. At least he's no phoney.

Would have been nice if CNN could have bothered to show all the speeches instead of what they decided we wanted to watch.

Pru McDonald   August 28th, 2008 1:16 am ET

Sorry, Mr. Rollins, but Biden's speech came across very well in TV land!

As a 76 year-old widow, and lifelong graphic artist, I was extremely moved by the succession of great speeches tonight... Kerry, Bill Clinton, Beau Biden, and Joe Biden... each of them built on one another to paint a complete and meaningful picture of two candidates, who with their families, portray a group of genuine individuals, NOT politicians, who seem sincerely eager to bring this country to a place long lost... a place of values, integrity and character... AT LONG LAST!!!!

Pru in Tigard, Oregon

Joseph in PA   August 28th, 2008 1:16 am ET

Gee, Ed, nervous for your Party? You should be! Biden did a great job.. and I am saying that from my home!

Debby   August 28th, 2008 1:15 am ET

Saw Biden alot on Bill Maher. His speech is no better than his rhetoric on the show. We call him Gaffee Duck.

David   August 28th, 2008 1:15 am ET

Ed:
It seems to me "... the idea that the vice presidential candidate is someone who can lend credibility to his nominee to be a commander in chief " is an idea propounded and perpetuated by pundits and talking heads. Your ilk has gobbled it and spewed it forth as Obama's own reasoning. Sad.

P V CA   August 28th, 2008 1:13 am ET

After 51 years being in the other party I joined the correct party. I was able to vote in the primary for the next President. BARACK OBAMA.

eric   August 28th, 2008 1:13 am ET

What is wrong with you people at the top here? It's impossible to not get inspired when you listen to Obama, unless you're so old that getting any kind of excitement would induce a stroke. Short on substance? You obviously weren't watching it. Biden listed issue after issue where McCain was wrong and Obama was right, yet somehow you still say it was short on substance. You don't give a crap what the facts are, you'll say the exact opposite of reality just so long as it complies with your warped view of the world. You people seriously just make stuff up because for some reason, you loved living under the worst president in American history. Biden is a great pick, and great man and he gave a great speech regardless of where you happened to see it.

lizfor hillary clinton   August 28th, 2008 1:12 am ET

Bill and Hillary's were better....You could tell they were ORIGINAL...THAT is what I love about the Clinton's they do their THING and are NOT puppets of the system...true intellectuals...not idiots...

John   August 28th, 2008 1:12 am ET

I have been a long time democrat but i did not think his speach was all that good. Talked alot about nothing!! Obama really did the wrong move!! That's why were voting for McCain!!!

Jesse   August 28th, 2008 1:08 am ET

Thought he gave a great speech. It was very moving and spoke from the heart. I have to give the guy much credit. He knows how to attack and i am sure many missed the intentional "fruedean slip". It was too personal to be a accident.

Craig   August 28th, 2008 1:07 am ET

Hillary makes Biden look like a bozo.

CNN SHOULD LOOK AT IP's   August 28th, 2008 1:06 am ET

Perhaps CNN should be looking at the IP addresses of the posts a little more closely. Many of them might be originating from downtown Denver. I think Dean might have a point. I think that a lot of these "PUMA" posts are actually republican staffers trying to hijack the spotlight any way they can. Too bad McCain can't win by running on the issues. Just more propaganda from the republicans.

Upon Further Review,Texas   August 28th, 2008 1:00 am ET

DEAN, Your right,THE SCUMBAGS AND SELF CENTERED PAID LOBBYISTS ARE EVEN WORKING THE BLOGS.Its worse than liars in the chat rooms.Lying has become the national past time in this country.

devon   August 28th, 2008 1:00 am ET

I think McCain is about to find himself in one deep hole. Yesterday the Democratic party was splintered almost equally in half. Today, it is united.
McCaiin has enjoyed a few months worth of a head start while the opposition was in full battle mode. Then he had a month or so more of seeing a very splintered Democratic Party. If McCain could not even get a lead in those circumstances, what possible chance could he have now that they are united? Game over my friends.

NEAL   August 28th, 2008 12:58 am ET

I think the "Freudian slip" was simply over the head for the dumb americans. No wonder most of them including the "Toob" did not think the speech was good.

We need a leader (who leads), not a soldier (who follows). Yes, McCain is a good follower! He has been a moron the whole time by screwing Arizona by not getting any earmarked money. That is downright dumb. It is absurd that in a state where you have 360 days of sunlight, there are no solar panels installed.

vote obama   August 28th, 2008 12:57 am ET

IT will be Obama/Biden all the way to the White House .
The only thing they have been correct on is
Obama is "The One ".He is "The One" in a lifetime .
Have had enough of the crooks McBush /McSame,Cheney,Rove and 8 years of them is enough to last forever .
McSame against everything thats positive and for more of the same old Mc Bush policys from a to z .

Last Honest Man   August 28th, 2008 12:56 am ET

Biden is an angry man. It comes across every time he speaks.

Phil Newton from Murphy, Oregon   August 28th, 2008 12:56 am ET

Ed, you are flat wrong.

Biden served notice: We are not playing nice and we are not going to back off the GOP machine.

GREAT SPEECH.

Get ready 'cause here we come.

Gina   August 28th, 2008 12:56 am ET

WOW what a terrible first impression. Both he and his son stumbled all over and never once got me excited. This is probably why Obama had to make the appearance. Once again the Clinton's have rocked the house as Obama said. So sad he didn't get the pick right.

Let's see what's in the kool aid during Obama's speech. Hope the prompter works because with out it Obama stumbles alot.

Anita   August 28th, 2008 12:55 am ET

I believe in team work, as good as Koby Bryant is he can’t win the game alone he need to surround himself with other good players. Obama, has a great team and adding Biden only strengthen it. We as Dems need to join the team to win our nation back.

The Clinton proved to be Exceptional team player.

I believe Wisdom is greater then any experience and Obama has the wisdom and judgment to lead.

Desmond Sequeira   August 28th, 2008 12:54 am ET

Biden was authentic and his speech was great. He is exceptionally knowledeable, experienced and a person of action who gets the job done.

And yes, OBAMA will be the kind of Commander-in-Chief that the USA and the world needs, not the war-mongering one that MCSame wants to be. He and Biden will make an amazing team.

Trang, Fremont, CA   August 28th, 2008 12:51 am ET

Joe Biden is no Obama or Clinton, but he is sincere, and can reach you at your heart, and speak in a way that is easy to understand. He complements Barack Obama. He is knowledgeable of John McCain record and can speak w/ authority. He has proved that Obama is right and McCain is wrong on foreign policy. We love you, Joe. You two will make a great team.

NO WAY, NO HOW, NO MCCAIN!

Paris   August 28th, 2008 12:50 am ET

Not so much!!!

Joel   August 28th, 2008 12:50 am ET

Its time this country got out from under a bush,
and saw the light! Go Obama!

dan   August 28th, 2008 12:48 am ET

Well dean sorry to burst your bubble but Im just a stay at home dad. The best thing to happen to Hillary was Joe Biden. She maybe doing what the party needs but thank God for Biden. She'll have another chance thanks to him on the undercard. Clinton 2012.

Bob   August 28th, 2008 12:47 am ET

I can't believe you nerds actually watch this love fest on t.v.! BORING!!! A bunch of people pay to go and cheer what ever drivel that pours out the various speakers mouths. A bunch of puppets. Both candidates are a bad choice.

McCain, yes, actually, Bush supporter   August 28th, 2008 12:45 am ET

Once duly muzzled, maybe Biden will be a good companion to Obama on their long journey through the wilderness while McCain continues to keep America safe for the next 8 years.

There have been no further attacks on American soil since 9/11. This is not the time to elect a dreamer who speaks in buzz words but has no relevant experience for the times we live in. Russia would eat Obama alive (look how they are respecting their "agreement" to withdraw from Georgia brokered by the eloquent Sarkozy) and we don't need another 9/11 to realize the mistake of electing a smooth-talking amateur.

Tatjana   August 28th, 2008 12:45 am ET

Have Americans become so naive and gullible to believe that Obama is truly qualified to be President .
He has no achievements to speak of and his resume is razor thin.
Fancy speeches are supposed to convince us that he is the ONE to put everything right that is wrong in America.
Surely we are smarter than that.
This has been an Obama love fest and it is sickening , to watch grown up people drooling all over him .
I know what needs change , I wanted to hear HOW ..!!??

think people   August 28th, 2008 12:44 am ET

Loved it. ENough said.

Fired Up   August 28th, 2008 12:43 am ET

Biden spoke with exceptance and support in his first speech this week.

He only needed to received the nomination tonight. A big speech wasn't necessary. Being there to stand beside Obama was enough.

We need to stop hating. Grow up and move on with the times.

JOE KILOZ   August 28th, 2008 12:43 am ET

I T-W AS-L I K E-O–D I N G--O N-S L E E P I N G-- P I L L S

Franky   August 28th, 2008 12:41 am ET

I swear, I feel like crying when I see Senator McCain, LOL!!!

cph9680   August 28th, 2008 12:40 am ET

That was a fantastic speech! The part with his 91-year-old mother was touching. That definitely pulled the heart-strings and showed that Biden can absoulutely devour any of the thugs that George W Bush the third picks

RyanB   August 28th, 2008 12:39 am ET

Remind me again why people should care what a republican strategist thinks of the Democratic National Convention? If he were to give a glowing report card to this event, he would be betraying the republicans' strategy. This is a republican strategist. Think about it folks.

Harmony Miami, FL   August 28th, 2008 12:38 am ET

Biden gave a good speach. He covered what he needed to. He will be a great VP.

D in Indiana   August 28th, 2008 12:36 am ET

I think all of the events tonight at the DNC were history in the making and I think it's wonderful. That being said, I have been reading the other blogs on here tonight, well for about the last 2 weeks actually, but anyway, I have read many many comments on every ticker possible that do nothing but blame blame blame. Just a few minutes ago as a matter of fact, on the article about McCain announcing VP on Friday, about 80% of the comments were Democrats making pretty rude statements. I can't figure why, especially tonight. It seems almost ironic to me that all this blame blame blame, negative negative negative is exactly what Obama is standing against! I don't understand why the old rule of "If you can't say something nice, don't say anything at all" isn't applied just a bit more. It doesn't solve anything, just causes more stress to everyone, and is the opposite of what your own candidate is trying to "change".

Anonymous   August 28th, 2008 12:34 am ET

Obama's full of crap, McCain needs to be president. At least McCain has a plan vs. Obama who has no clue

Van   August 28th, 2008 12:32 am ET

So.... did the Republicans finally buy CNN?

Because these guys are getting almost as Biased as other news networks.

Why don't you just make article after article titled "Don't vote Barack"

Obama/Biden '08

Jeffrey   August 28th, 2008 12:29 am ET

Like the guy, but he's no Obama...or Hillary for that matter....

Robert Bateman   August 28th, 2008 12:28 am ET

The Democrats built a huge head of steam, and they have the Bush / McCain failures in their sights. This time, it's America's turn.
No way, No how, No McSame.

sharon   August 28th, 2008 12:26 am ET

could Rollins and CNN be any more negative?Yes, the American voters will decide ,and they will make the right decision ....to elect Barack Obama as POTUS.CNN and their talking heads can choke on that! If this is the tone of their coverage for a one party convention,how will they cover a bi-partisan event like the election.CSpan is looking better and better every day.

Susan from Scotts Valley, CA   August 28th, 2008 12:25 am ET

It wasn't perfect but it felt sincere and I think the message was REALLY strong.

KenB, MI   August 28th, 2008 12:25 am ET

Outstanding...that hit terra firma...totally on the ground...totally with the American people...

Let us prepare for the propaganda machine of the Republican party...lets close out the week with the final finale...stars and strips forever

Shelley in California   August 28th, 2008 12:23 am ET

Just another P.S. re: does a VP really make a difference? I think Cheny has shown that it does. Think about it. Also, if McCain, at his age, experienced a health challenge that kept him from fully performing the rigors of the job of President, the person serving as VP would indeed an important consideration.

Judi   August 28th, 2008 12:23 am ET

For those who listen with mind, heart, and soul – Joe Biden's speech was genuine, sincere, and filled with love and hope for our country. "For those who have ears to hear . . . let them hear."

chris nguyen   August 28th, 2008 12:22 am ET

i am a true dem but i dont think biden can help obama in anyways .obama polls has been slipping.. so i can tell all of hillary supporters like me.. vote for mc caine so hillary can run in 2012.. haha

sirmans   August 28th, 2008 12:20 am ET

I thought Biden's speech was lame. I liked Pres. Clinton's though!

interesting   August 28th, 2008 12:19 am ET

It was not a hit. It was horrible. Obama lacked judgment again in saying this guy did a good job. NOT.

PUMA 2008

No McCain No How   August 28th, 2008 12:18 am ET

@Dean...i challenge you to site your source. the Republican have set up what they like to refer to, the war room in Denver, Mitt was there the other day. as seen on a real news station C-SPAN. in this little dark room were any number of 20 somethings busy on their lap tops typing away, when the reporter spoke to one young lad, who was taken aback, the reporter asked who he was and what he was doing...well the reluctant response of Mark Goldfarb was "i am a blogger for the RNC" so your statement is true to an extent...there are paid minions working this site and others like it, but they are Republicans...thanks for playing

Obama/Biden   August 28th, 2008 12:18 am ET

It is ridiculous what the republican had done to this country in eight years. Coming from economics surplus from Bill Clinton to deep debt to China. This republican government is handing their white plate over to China and begging to barrow money from them. This has never been the US. Most of the time it always been the other way around. We are the one that used to lend money to the world.
These republican think that they have not done enough to the country and try to scare you away from a chance to take our country back. No way, No how, No McCain.

James   August 28th, 2008 12:17 am ET

Biden is GREAT!!!

OBAMA 08!

Shelley in California   August 28th, 2008 12:16 am ET

I frankly found the Clintons, Michelle Obama and Joe Bieden all were very well received by this viewer and the group I watched with. They
were inspiring...Michelle put the 'face' and the 'heart' in her kick-off speech. Hilary began building the important bridge between the differing constituents. Bill Clinton gave substance and experiential credibility. And inspired!
Re: Bieden
I found his comments were from the "man on the street" perspective and valuable to promote the Democrats' awareness of needs of the average American citizen. He nailed that.
Great team approach.
CNN has been my 1st choice for viewing, largely due to the strength of the reporters on sight. Refreshingly different to have the energy of the event conveyed through 'front line' reporting. Much more interesting than just sitting in some studio with other political pundits analyzing from afar. Thanks using this approach. It was a good blend between the studio and the convention.
Just an off-hand P.S. Do the Republicans really want to make AGE an issue?! Bring it on! :)
Interestingly, registered democrat, but still undecided about final vote.
VP for McCain could make it interesting.

Dready1Rasta   August 28th, 2008 12:16 am ET

Mr Rollins-The only thing "pedestrian" about Sen. Biden's speech was your evaluation of it and CNN's convention coverage as a whole.

nicole   August 28th, 2008 12:15 am ET

The republicans need more energy and more understanding of the real needs of the American people...They just don't get it, and I believe that Barack Obama does get it and will win the ticket for president in November....

I would much rather see Obama's face in the screen on TV than wrinkle McCain any day, and I think most Americans would second that...

Some posters just need to get over their Obama envy.....
Hatemongers are tiresome and boring me.....

Esmeralda   August 28th, 2008 12:14 am ET

Dean, I am not sure I can say it any better.

Ed – your job title says it all. You are a Republican. As a democrat – frankly your opinion, your words, your message, is to me that of a snake.

CAW in MD   August 28th, 2008 12:14 am ET

Perhaps it is true that the VP cannot confer gravitas in a certain area, but give Joe Biden credit - he pointed out that on the big issues in America these days, Obama's judgement is much better than the "experienced" John McCain. Timetable for Iraq? GOP has come around to Obama's point of view (except McCain). Iran? Obama's plan (except McCain). Afghanistan? Obama's plan (parroted by McCain).

I think it is hilarious that Clinton tried the experience line, and lost, yet McCain is trying the same line. Maybe he's just a slow learner...

Wanda an Obama Supporter from MO   August 28th, 2008 12:13 am ET

Who cares what Ed Rollins think? I am sick of Ed's commentary, it's always negative, negative, negative. Instead of Ed being paid by CNN, they need to send him to Fox news. I never hear anything positive out of Ed. Cnn needs to stop putting him on tv for a comment anyway. Now next week, let's see how CNN and Fox spin the Repugs convention. The only commentors that talks like they have some sense are Roland Martin, Berstein, and Campbell Brown. Gloria Berger was good tonight. I can not believe some of the comments that Wolf Blitzer and Anderson Cooper has been making. I used to like them, but I"ve never seen them like this, so negative.

BK   August 28th, 2008 12:12 am ET

"From Republican Strategist Ed Rollins...." So surprised...

Independent from FL   August 28th, 2008 12:10 am ET

I don't think Biden is going to do much help to get Obama elected. Its all on Obama to close the deal.

Al McMullin   August 28th, 2008 12:10 am ET

Right on Dean! If the American people managed to find the convention coverage on C-SPAN instead of the 24/7 newsmakers (instead of what they should be REPORTERS) they should count themselves as very lucky. It seems CNN, MSNBC and FOX all feel they need to tell the American people what they saw and how they should think.
I liked Joe Biden's speech. I liked his son's intro. End of story.

fired   August 28th, 2008 12:10 am ET

JB did great.

John McCain was born on third stealing second...how rich all of the one liners from this incredible convention

Ryan   August 28th, 2008 12:10 am ET

yay for more republican spin on cnn!

Kristen   August 28th, 2008 12:10 am ET

I LOVED his speech. You're nitpicking.

CCDemocrat   August 28th, 2008 12:06 am ET

Biden came off just fine..................it's easy to make the case against the GOP and the stupidity of the last 8 years.

Jake   August 28th, 2008 12:04 am ET

Funny. I was actually thinking the opposite the entire time.

Grace   August 28th, 2008 12:04 am ET

He did well very well on my TV.

Kevin,FL   August 28th, 2008 12:04 am ET

The GOP will bash Obama and Biden Next week 10x worst than they did to McCain.

Were NOT "your friends"!!!   August 28th, 2008 12:04 am ET

I watched it and loved it!!!

Obama/Biden '08!!!

Jim   August 28th, 2008 12:03 am ET

Wow look at the republicans hammer away at the keyboard, probably been on the site all night ignoring the convention and ready to attack and find any blurb online or one liner to use as if they watched any of it.

James in melbourne   August 28th, 2008 12:01 am ET

Sorry - It was a great talk. I was impressed, and that was watching it at home.
It strikes me, McCain is feeling the fear - hence the non-news discussion tonight about how "he's decided his running mate". A sure sign of worry that they aren't even risking just waiting until the end of the convention to try and deflate the bump but want to try and siphon off attention during it.
And you fall for it hook line and sinker. Come on - news would be if he actually announced the name. I don't need a 30 minute distraction that covers what we already knew. I'm waiting to see how you cover things next week.

Jim   August 28th, 2008 12:01 am ET

I'm sure you guy's will disect it but I loved it! I loved all the speeche's tonight, it brought back the big picture. All the petty bickering, but you tend to forget the issues with it, and these speeche's talking about the families and the economy and the veterans, it all brought it back home and brought back the reason why we are democrats and what we are really fighting for.

Also Joe Biden's speech may not have been perfect for the critics on tv, but it shows he is a person, and that's what make's him so great! He's a human being, he may not be perfect and he may fumble but he speaks from the heart, and speaks the truth, and the truth may not always be perfect.

Dean   August 27th, 2008 11:58 pm ET

I just read some news reports about campaign volunteers 'hammering away at their laptops' to counter the Democrat message. This seems to jive with my impression that a great number of the respondents on these blogs are simply campaign staffers 'hammering their message'. No wonder a huge percentage of them have replies on *every* blog post!!!

Think about it people! Don't be led by the nose. Think for yourselves!

W O W WO W   August 27th, 2008 11:58 pm ET

I - W A S--D E S P E R A T E L Y---–C H A S I N G--F O R---

P O L I T I C A L----U P P E R S----D I D N ' T-–F I N D--A N Y

Sherry, Atlanta   August 27th, 2008 11:58 pm ET

SPEECH WAS VERY GOOD. . .GIVEN WHAT THE PARTY HAS BEEN THROUGH!

IT WILL ONLY GET BETTER, BELIEVE ME!

OBAMA/BIDEN '08-'12

John from LA   August 27th, 2008 11:56 pm ET

Snore, Snore-missed opportunity!-too many flubs and short on substance-but that seems to be the theme with this ticket!

Clinton, no, wait, McCain Supporter   August 27th, 2008 11:56 pm ET

How about Obama making a cameo appearance at the end?!

We can't have anyone else getting TOO much attention tonight, not when The One hasn't gotten his face on TV in a whole 24 hours.

Tomorrow night will be mind-numbing. I plan to watch the test pattern on TV for a little stimulation.

With any luck, Biden will talk, talk, talk Obama right out of the presidency. By the first week in October, he'll be wearing a muzzle!!

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