September 3, 2008
Posted: 09:00 PM ET

From
McCain greeted Palin Wednesday.
McCain greeted Palin Wednesday.

(CNN) – Prominent Republican analysts Peggy Noonan and Mike Murphy became the latest victims of an open microphone Wednesday, caught after a segment on MSNBC trashing John McCain's pick of Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin as his running mate.

Noonan, a Wall Street Journal columnist and former speechwriter for Ronald Reagan, and Murphy, a campaign strategist and onetime aide to John McCain, can both be heard expressing disbelief with the pick of Palin after they apparently thought they were in a commercial break.

“I come out of the blue swing-state governor world, Engler, Whitman, Thompson, Mitt Romney,” Murphy said during the mishap which has since been posted on YouTube. Murphy later flatly says of the pick, "It's not going to work."

Noonan is heard going even further, saying of the presidential race, "It's over."

"I think they went for this — excuse me– political bulls–t about narratives," Noonan also said. "Every time the Republicans do that, because that's not where they live and it's not what they're good at, they blow it."

Murphy, who was a senior adviser to John McCain's 2000 presidential bid, also adds, "You know what's really the worst thing about it? The greatness of McCain is no cynicism, and this is cynical."

UPDATE: Writing on the Wall Street Journal Web site, Noonan apologizes for using profanity and says she was not claiming McCain's campaign was "over."

"In our off-air conversation, I got on the subject of the leaders of the Republican party assuming, now, that whatever the base of the Republican party thinks is what America thinks. I made the case that this is no longer true, that party leaders seem to me stuck in the assumptions of 1988 and 1994, the assumptions that reigned when they were young and coming up," she writes.  "The first lesson they learned is the one they remember," I said to [MSNBC's Chuck] Todd — and I'm pretty certain that is a direct quote. But, I argued, that's over, those assumptions are yesterday, the party can no longer assume that its base is utterly in line with the thinking of the American people. And when I said, "It's over!" — and I said it more than once — that is what I was referring to."

Filed under: Republican National Convention • Sarah Palin


Muz   September 3rd, 2008 8:06 pm ET

FUNNY STUFFFFFFFFFFFFF AHHAHAHAHAHHAHAHAHAH

Grant   September 3rd, 2008 8:06 pm ET

Here's what I find disturbing. I get the impression Chuck Todd knew all along that they were completely full of crap and lying their backsides off on the air, and as soon as the cameras were off he just naturally and very comfortably slipped into this "so, what's the truth?" conversation with both of them like this happens every day. Which basically tells me the state of political reporting in this country. The media know we're being fed a line of bullcrap from these pundits and they just let them do it to us, putting them on the air night after night after night to get their works of fiction out to the nation.

If you know they're lying to us, STOP BROADCASTING THEM. You're supposed to be journalists for god's sake, how about trying to inform the public instead? Is that really too much to ask of our news media?

Steve   September 3rd, 2008 8:06 pm ET

Palin is not an insider politico. Expect more nasty digs and jabs from the "establishment", on both sides of the aisle.

I used to think Obama was fairly independent of the polical machine, but Biden only reveals that he's still being controlled by the party. McCain, on the other hand, seems to show more and more that he has independence from the bloated, power hungry behemoths that represent the political party bosses today.

Jean   September 3rd, 2008 8:06 pm ET

The real issue is how McCain makes his decissions.

Talking points are repeated over and over. It is refreshing to hear that someone have different thoughts.

Obama's The One   September 3rd, 2008 8:06 pm ET

Wow… I love it when truth is spoken. So many lies go on in politics and in the media… pundits and politicians are just full of fibs, lying, shading the truth, spinning, etc etc etc. Let's ALL just be REAL… NOBODY is comfortable with this woman becoming President of the US and leader of the Free World if John McCain's 72-yr old self croaks around the nomrla life expectancy for white men in America! I mean…really… who wants Sarah Palin to be negotiating with North Korean or Iran?? She would be such a puppet that Pinnochio would grow jealous!

It's over. Obama/Biden wins. "Finish him!" "Flawless Victory"

George   September 3rd, 2008 8:06 pm ET

Pandering extraordinaire is what Palin is…….
The American people are tired of republican scare tactics – since they know that – the pandering comes out….. it's laughable because it is so desperate

Concerned American   September 3rd, 2008 8:06 pm ET

They just got caught saying what everyone is saying, both Democrats and Republicans: That the Palin pick is a joke, if she were male she would NEVER have been given the slightest consideration as VP, and that McCain showed shockingly poor judgement and a lack of respect for women.

Because I really did like him, I'm sad McCain turned out this way…And, as someone with a parent who suffers from early stage alzheimer's, it worries me to see what appear to be similar lapses in thought clarity.

Dyan, MN   September 3rd, 2008 8:06 pm ET

There is nothing worse in politics than to be caught telling the truth.

Mike   September 3rd, 2008 8:05 pm ET

I didn't know republicans are capable of telling the truth, even in private!

Dave Lemoine   September 3rd, 2008 8:05 pm ET

There was a time not that long ago when CNN was a respected news source that for the most report reported in an objective manner. What a contrast we see today when we mistakenly select CNN to watch coverage of the RNC. There they are a biased pack of liberal / socialist reporters and talking heads attempting to look objective in discussing Senator McCain and Governor Palin's qualification to lead the country. If they only knew how outwardly biased they appear to the majority of Americans! You should change your news channel from CNN to CNN Entertainment Tonight for Liberals and Socialists!

Tina   September 3rd, 2008 8:05 pm ET

THE UNASKED QUESTION!!!!

Knowing the penchant for scandalous news in this country, why would a mother expose her child to the type of scrutiny this poor 17 year old is facing?

The need for power is fascinating, isn't it?

Navy-STG1(Surface Warfare)   September 3rd, 2008 8:05 pm ET

She can't manage her own children…how can we trust her to manage our nation…blast away media!!!

Talia   September 3rd, 2008 8:04 pm ET

instead of just calling Palin the VP candidate, America needs to think of her as potentially being the president herself. Then I think we'd all realize just how ridiculous her selection is.

Dexter   September 3rd, 2008 8:04 pm ET

Will our tax dollars have to pay for nannies at the Observatory? She'll have her hands full.

Obama/ Biden 08

Fed Up   September 3rd, 2008 8:04 pm ET

Wow, same old Karl Rove maneuvers. Glad to see McCain-Palin are all about REFORM. I don't care about her daughter; what offends me is that McCain's campaign doesn't have the decency to respect the American public enough to include the news of her pregnancy at the same time they announced Palin as a running mate. Once again, GOP tries to manipulate the truth and dole it out as they see fit. Haven't we had enough of that during the past seven years???

Obamacan   September 3rd, 2008 8:03 pm ET

Obama is a big headache for Mccain. President Bush's family wants Obama win this election so that they could prepare Bush's brother in 2016. some games are going out there guys. Mccain made a blunder. How do you compare Palin and Joe Biden? Obama's choice is smart.

Peter from Lansing MI   September 3rd, 2008 8:03 pm ET

I really have the time of my life this week; this is better than the clowns I remember from my childhood days.
GO OBAMA/BIDEN 2008!

Becky response to DREW   September 3rd, 2008 8:03 pm ET

LOL!!!!! this just made my day, I might have missed all this as I have been watching the RNC all this with my Mute Button on!!!

No JM   September 3rd, 2008 8:03 pm ET

Even they are against it! They are self desrupting! Mccain is already acknowledging defeat, because he is overwhelmed with what he knows he has to do in order to compete against Obama = it's CONCESSION!!

Ron , Berkeley , Ca.   September 3rd, 2008 8:03 pm ET

I wonder what their lies will be tonight ? Those danmed republicans are so transparent…. that is when they don`t know someone is listining to their real thoughts and feelings about Sarah Palin and her family values…..
Where`s Levi sleeping tonight ??? Are Bristol and her BABY DADDY, going to share the same hotel room ? I guess they should , afterall ,they`ve been given the blessings of Tony Perkins , James Dobson , and the rest of the Christian Right ,…. SHAME,SHAME,SHAME…..

Steve   September 3rd, 2008 8:03 pm ET

Brilliant! While much of the narrative tonight will be on Palin's recital of a speech someone wrote for her that includes some of the foreign policy concepts she's learned during her St. Louis workshop at the convention, what I'd love to hear is more talk about the baker's dozen of highly questionable decisions she's been involved in as an "experienced executive". I'm thinking of "troopergate", car wash closures, parenting skills no better than Lynne Spears' (only mentioned because O'Reilly seems to think Spears is a failure as mom), turning a debt free town into one burdened by bonds and loans with nothing to show for it, inflating her approval rating by maximizing oil business returns for her constituents (your high gas prices in part are helping pay for her surplus checks…think about that) and the list goes on…

Nevertheless tomorrow morning expect reviews approaching Obama levels on her speech that will come across as "mavericky", "tough", "straightforward" and "honest", oh, and also "humble" and "populist". Just don't stop asking questions and don't stop demanding all of the facts! As the brilliant Campbell Brown revealed in her interview with Tucker Brown, McCain spokesdude, she has not a single example of foreign policy experience to speak of. Knock Obama all you like, he's been a breath of fresh air to our foreign policy ever since he opposed the attack on Iraq that is still sucking 10 billion dollars out of our country every month.

ben   September 3rd, 2008 8:03 pm ET

Very put Thanks-that's just my observation.

Dreanna, NY   September 3rd, 2008 8:03 pm ET

Meet the press, if you don't have anything to hide. Barack went through the wringer and Palin has to do the same. Let her take the skirt off and put on the boxing gloves, this is politics, not the sandbox.

Obama/ Biden 08

An Ex-Republican   September 3rd, 2008 8:02 pm ET

Even the Republicans know that McCain blew it. He took a gamble and lost. He doesn't really care about our country or he would have chosen someone who was qualified. His campaign needed attention so he does the Maverick thing without regard for his country; whom he says he loves so much. McCain is all about "Politics as Usual"

OBAMA / Biden 08

dgordon   September 3rd, 2008 8:02 pm ET

CNN, why did you leave out the quote by Noonan saying Palin is not qualified? Afraid to let the American public hear it coming from a woman? That's pathetic.

Joey   September 3rd, 2008 8:02 pm ET

They're right. It's over

Jeff   September 3rd, 2008 8:02 pm ET

Haha. I don't want to hear any more of this nonsense about the "angry liberals" attacking Palin, even the real strategists of her own party know she's not up to the task!

Ohio for Obama   September 3rd, 2008 8:02 pm ET

Spin Spin Spin and more spin. You tube is a monster

Pat Dawson   September 3rd, 2008 8:01 pm ET

In the photo that accompanies this article…McCain's face appears enormously swollen. Tumor? And Palin could be next in line? Yikes!

andrew   September 3rd, 2008 8:01 pm ET

If this speech is anything short of excellent tonight, it's over

Isabelle from WA   September 3rd, 2008 8:01 pm ET

The smart repugs know that the Palin pick will not pick up Hillary's women voters. Palin is SO PALE in comparison to Hillary. What a joke to think we women will fall for it. McPain really underestimates and insults women with his choice of VP.

OBAMA-BIDEN!!!!!

mark   September 3rd, 2008 8:01 pm ET

It sickens me how the media and their democratic masters have sunk to a level that Carl Rove would be proud of.

I am now voting for McCain just to piss off the left.

If they would scrutinize Obama or Biden half as much as they are Palin, I think they would show they are not saints either.

How come no one has challenged Biden on his strong support for the Iraq war in 2002, and now playing himself to be anti-war. He's a liar, and the media says nothing. Obama hangs out with America-haters and revolutionaries, and the media says nothing. The left drowls over this man like he is the second coming, and turns around and attacks the Republicans family, a tactic so low it is sickening.

Those who are riding this hate bus are a bunch of hypocrites and should be ashamed.

Moderators, please print this, I have apparently been black-listed, as none of my postings have made it in weeks, but this one, I think you should post. This is America, I have a right to speak my mind too!

Edgar   September 3rd, 2008 8:01 pm ET

Nice!

Don Fitzgerald   September 3rd, 2008 8:01 pm ET

What's new with Noonan, putting something in her mouth, like a mic or a foot. She made a career at it !! She was hoping to make a puppet out of Senator McCain, like she did President Reagan, but Senator McCain kept getting the strings tangled !! Where do these Republicans come from, a rock farm in Texas !!
SUPPORT OUR TROOPS, BRING THEM HOME, ALIVE AND WHOLE. NOW.

Matt   September 3rd, 2008 8:01 pm ET

I hope that people see this VP pick for what it is. I think this shows everyone what McCain's decision making process looks like and I definitely don't want that kind of "decider" in the White House.

The Artful Dodger   September 3rd, 2008 8:01 pm ET

scritti, I really do like Palin – but it's a shame about that McCain guy.

Independentandlovingit   September 3rd, 2008 8:00 pm ET

They should have added in that the leading Republican (female) in her own States Legislature was asked if she was qualified to be VP and she said " Qualified to be VP, she's not even qualified to be governor"
WOW, what a ringing endorsement!

Please do better   September 3rd, 2008 8:00 pm ET

Peggy Noonan said what everybody, regardless of political party, thinks when she pointed out that there are far better qualified Republican women.

C   September 3rd, 2008 8:00 pm ET

What a mess.

FamilyValuesGuy   September 3rd, 2008 8:00 pm ET

Thanks- Just-My-Observation you forgot one important thing about Palin that puts her qualifications way above those of Obama…she was Chairperson of the local PTA.

Phil-Texas   September 3rd, 2008 8:00 pm ET

It is sure funny I said the same thing when I heard about Mc's pick and I am not a political pundit. Imagine that. These people are real geniuses.

Chuck Todd Must Go!   September 3rd, 2008 8:00 pm ET

You forgot to mention the biased comments by Chuck Todd, the replacement for the late Tim Russert who is not fit to tie Russert's shoes. Todd had lost all credibility as a political analyst. His comments show he is clearly in bed with the Democrats. He should be fired by NBC.

Bill Tampa   September 3rd, 2008 8:00 pm ET

Look, it's no secret the Republicans made a bad choice. Even their own party knows it. Let's face it though. Would you rather have Joe Biden in the big chair if something happend to the president, or Sara Palin?…It's obvious..Biden is more ready….The Republicans are on the defense because they made a mistake and have been caught. Look what they did to Campbell Brown. She was just trying to do her job and man, the republicans cried foul..They did not think it was so serious and they laughed at when Obama was under going scrutiny and said it was unfair. What comes around goes around!!!!!!!

Come on CNN folks publish this…no awaiting moderation this time.

HyperD   September 3rd, 2008 7:59 pm ET

No wonder! Palin is a TERRIBLE PICK..! So many flaws… McCain just wanted to secure the women vote. I supported Hillary, but I'm not buying that one. Palin is againts many issues that Hillary stands for… she's anti-environment, a creationist, and an extreme conservative SHE doesn't represent change! I was independent until now, but now I made up my mind for Obama. BAD, BAD CHOICE MCCAIN! All women are not the same! I will stick with Hillary!

Greg FL.   September 3rd, 2008 7:59 pm ET

No bias there. Just the plain simple truth when they thought nobody was listening. How ya like them apples Mr. mcCain?

Ohio for Obama   September 3rd, 2008 7:59 pm ET

The race is over when you hear your own party trash your selection. I know its early, but Obama has a 7pt lead and recently picked up (2) more states.

FRANKIE WEBB   September 3rd, 2008 7:59 pm ET

why act surprised that the biased msnbc staff would slam the republicans, has been this way since the almighty great one was selected by the media to be the next chosen one. Please such unmitgated bs!

Boston Girl   September 3rd, 2008 7:59 pm ET

This just made my evening

doreen   September 3rd, 2008 7:59 pm ET

How can a new mother of a 3 month old downe syndrome baby
be ready at the drop of a hat to take over as President should
anything happen to McCain. Is she not breast feeding????
Also she is preparing to be a grandmother to her 17 year old childs
child and a wedding!!! I don't like it. She may be bright and pretty
but I am from British Columbia and we don't wanrt her drilling in
our National parks and killing Grizzlys for sport. I believe in sex
education in schools as there are too many health risks because
of ignorance, Doesn't take a brain surgeon to know she is not ready
to be Commander In Chief. Dual Citizen, Doreen

kendall   September 3rd, 2008 7:59 pm ET

truth hurts, Almost everyone in America said the same thing, I was hoping to see biden and Romney go at it with Barrack and McCain battling it out, but now McCain had to throw in the towel with a dumb mistake

Mark   September 3rd, 2008 7:59 pm ET

It's a good thing Jesse Jackson wasn't there!!!

JD   September 3rd, 2008 7:59 pm ET

I just love it when people cite Obama's college days as proof that he's qualified to be President. These are the same people who didn't think Clarence Thomas was qualified to be a Supreme Court justice, even though his academic credentials clearly show that Obama is nothing but a lightweight empty suit.

C!   September 3rd, 2008 7:59 pm ET

HAHAHAHAHAHA!

OBAMA/BIDEN `08!!

returntocommonsense   September 3rd, 2008 7:58 pm ET

I only have one thing to say – OUCH!

Naomi   September 3rd, 2008 7:58 pm ET

Wow if your only party is saying that it is a bad mistake, then hang it up McCain.

Kris K in CA   September 3rd, 2008 7:58 pm ET

Palin is a huge mistake. In over her head. McCain made a huge mistake with this woman. There is no way the American voting public can stomach this pair of nitwits.
As a working woman who raised three professional children alone with the help of my mother this woman is a failure as a parent. Her decision making skills are limited.I am not allowing my vote to be wasted on McCain/Palin.

Paula from Canada..   September 3rd, 2008 7:58 pm ET

I love this! LMAO! I wish they had the guts to say it on air.. LIVE Palin is one big disaster.. McCain looks like the idiot he is. No judgement, he deserves her.

josef   September 3rd, 2008 7:58 pm ET

This is not news. It;s two people speaking candidly. Read Noonan's articles and wait until the speech tonight.. It's easy to see that even CNN is afraid of Noonan now that the baby thing is blowing up in their faces.

pete   September 3rd, 2008 7:58 pm ET

"it is over"

ain't it precious… :)

Jan Illinois   September 3rd, 2008 7:58 pm ET

If they all really think this way, Why don't they try to save their party?

Jason   September 3rd, 2008 7:58 pm ET

All of you brain washed Obama lovers need to sit back and really think before you say anything about Palin's experiance. She has more experiance, than McCain and Obama combined on the executinve level, and I garauntee she would make a better VP than your holier than thou rock and roll star would make as a president.

Mikey B   September 3rd, 2008 7:58 pm ET

McCain will soon be working at McDonald's if he's lucky. Bye bye old man!!

Gerry in Virginia   September 3rd, 2008 7:58 pm ET

Since McCain was forced into the Palin choice by his "advisors" , who are of course (advised) by KARL ROVE AND GEORGE BUSH, should the Republican old guard hold him (McCain) responsible for this horrible situation? Why couldn't he have had HIS choice for VP? Does that mean that BUSH is still calling the shots ? Of course it does. It must be a heartbreaking situation for McCain to have sold his soul to Bush/Rove to get the nomination only to have any choice in how to be the President taken away by Bush and Rove.. No wonder this Republican convention is falling apart right before our eyes….

Lee Jackson   September 3rd, 2008 7:58 pm ET

rofl…. McCain is using her just like he did his wives.

Cheryl   September 3rd, 2008 7:58 pm ET

You can't help but love those microphones…..

Even Steven   September 3rd, 2008 7:57 pm ET

This whole situation is really getting richer by the day. Is this part of the "faux news scandal" too?

Makes me want to celebrate by donating another $50 to Obama/Biden

KEFA   September 3rd, 2008 7:57 pm ET

N thats what they really mean…its over!

rodney   September 3rd, 2008 7:57 pm ET

what an unfortunate incident, at least they told the truth,
OBAMA'08

redneck for obama   September 3rd, 2008 7:57 pm ET

that gotta hurt! omg!

Jerome   September 3rd, 2008 7:57 pm ET

Republican stragist/analyst finally caught lying through their teeth. Then put on a brave face and smile to convince us they are telling the truth. I see this all the time on CNN with spoke persons for the Republican party. They are bigger liers then the actual politians.

pam Eugene OR   September 3rd, 2008 7:57 pm ET

LOL
That is too funny. You made my day and I love it. I can hear Barack's new ad now!
Thanks folks that was great!!!!!!
Two can play hide the mike.
Obama/Biden

jnkekoa   September 3rd, 2008 7:57 pm ET

Even such candid admissions will not necessarily save us from the 51% of the country who are simply idiots.

Steve, New York, New York   September 3rd, 2008 7:57 pm ET

I am afraid that the Republican commentators are correct.

I am curious as to whether the head of McCain's VP search committee will eventually emerge as a hidden Obama supporter.

Kerry Chapman   September 3rd, 2008 7:57 pm ET

Media: Political commentators such as Rollin Martin and all the others
tend to forget. Substance: is EXPERIENCE. Substance: is Ive done
that. OBAMA has done none of that. BLUE SUIT or not SHE is a woman thats been there and done that.

Kevin   September 3rd, 2008 7:57 pm ET

That goes to show how terrible a choice Palin is. She has very little experience and has extreme views. She believes in abstinence for teens and is against sex ed in schools which clearly did not work even for her own daughter.

Joan McArthur   September 3rd, 2008 7:57 pm ET

I didn't believe Noonan would ever stoop to do 'cat talk'. She fell off her pedestal for me!

Willa PA   September 3rd, 2008 7:57 pm ET

OMG…its over?…could be used in an add maybe…Mitt R is a low life going to attack Michelle, hypocrites, can't say that word enough somehow. Is all I can think of when looking at a Consevitive Republican…

CO   September 3rd, 2008 7:56 pm ET

Those two aren't the only two-faced Republicans. Many are saying the same in private.

JP   September 3rd, 2008 7:56 pm ET

Given enough time, the truth reveals itself as it has revealed about Mr. McCain's campaign. Sarah Palin's pick in a rushed judgment clearly shows how Mr. McCain, given the opportunity, will steer the country.

Obama Supporter!   September 3rd, 2008 7:56 pm ET

I didn't believe for one minute that all republicans were just delighted with this off the wall pick!

Obama/Biden 08!

RCLGuard   September 3rd, 2008 7:56 pm ET

What beauty. What justification. This is too juicy for words. Keep going McCain. Keep'em coming. One blunder after another. Oh yes, McCain/Palin will make history…as the worst ticket to ever come out of the Republican right. This is a great day for all.

Obama/Biden 08/12

White older evangelical woman from the south for OBAMA   September 3rd, 2008 7:56 pm ET

IT ON YOUTUBE AND HUFFINGTON POST.

NOW NO ONE CAN BLAME THE MEDIA.

FINALLY THEY ADMIT

Tara   September 3rd, 2008 7:56 pm ET

That is laugh-out-loud funny!! It's good to know that these talking heads don't really believe the spin they keep trying to force on us.

kentucky repuplicans   September 3rd, 2008 7:56 pm ET

vote for miss alaska!!!!!

god help us!!! i cant believe this…
i wonder what will drop out the hat next week!!!!!

charles h.   September 3rd, 2008 7:55 pm ET

Even their own party members realize this entire campaign is a joke. McSame – Country First – right.

He EXPOSES my children to attack with this VP pick.

Republican for Obama   September 3rd, 2008 7:55 pm ET

Truth shall set you free Murphy and Noonan. ITS OVER!

McCain has proved he's a pandering hands-off, eyes-off, ears-off kind of leader with questionable judgment. ENOUGH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Gorbashov - Long Beach, Ca.   September 3rd, 2008 7:55 pm ET

He has castrated his campaign with this obvious cynical choice.

GAME OVER!

Candace, Cambridge, MA   September 3rd, 2008 7:55 pm ET

The truth is out!!!! It's Over!

Antithesis of Sarah Palin   September 3rd, 2008 7:55 pm ET

Sarah Palin is a hypocrite. Doesn't she promote family values and abstinance only? How is this woman going to be successful in the highest office if she can't even make her policy plans work in her own FAMILY! She is despicable and a disgrace to women. The Republicans should be ashamed. By the way, if she cares so much about family values- why is she abandoning her FOUR MONTH OLD DISABLED child to follow her career. Selfish, hypocritical, thoughtless. She is a disgrace to mothers and women. Case Closed.

fdaddy57   September 3rd, 2008 7:55 pm ET

McCain + Obama = two losers. I think I'll sit this one out.

MikeH   September 3rd, 2008 7:55 pm ET

Already said by another, CNN was slow to pick this up, even after it was posted on youtube. I would've liked to hear the debate within the CNN meeting room when the Republican operatives tried to derail posting this article on the Ticker. Truth and accuracy won out, way to go CNN, you may yet redeem yourself when Obama wins and launches an overhaul of the FCC to eliminate propaganda broadcasters like FOX SPEWS.

scritti   September 3rd, 2008 7:55 pm ET

I really do like mcCain – but it's a shame about that palin woman.

Trevor   September 3rd, 2008 7:55 pm ET

This looks even worse since they're pushing the story that poor Sarah Palin is being trashed by the "liberal media."

Brian MacDougall   September 3rd, 2008 7:55 pm ET

Look for John McCain to sue both of them. That's all that's left for him.

kaw kaay shion   September 3rd, 2008 7:55 pm ET

HOW EAR THOSE REPUBLICAN NARRATIVES GOING?

Marc   September 3rd, 2008 7:55 pm ET

Game, set, match to Obama/Biden–the union has been saved in part due to McCain's lack of judgement, but more importantly due to a superior run campain by Obama.

Brian S.   September 3rd, 2008 7:54 pm ET

I'm still waiting for Republican PUMAs to start saying they'll vote for Obama.

Cheryl, Chevy Chase MD   September 3rd, 2008 7:54 pm ET

At least it's good to know that there are some Republicans with brains. The fiscal conservatives have let the christian right own the party. It's a terrible shame.

Proud to be American   September 3rd, 2008 7:54 pm ET

LOL

Jon   September 3rd, 2008 7:54 pm ET

It's a really bad sign when your own teammates are ready to throw in the towel.

jj   September 3rd, 2008 7:54 pm ET

wow!…a bunch of hypocrites!

pat C.   September 3rd, 2008 7:54 pm ET

everybody thinks it ,both dems ans repubs. it is over. macain is an idiot. obama was voted in with 18million votes and mccain thinks he can bring a gun toting bimbo in and expect her to be ready to be president. this should be a lession for the old fool. it is as they say:OVER!!

Louis   September 3rd, 2008 7:54 pm ET

…AND THE TRUTH SHALL SET YOU FREE.

Griff   September 3rd, 2008 7:54 pm ET

Why?? When the Democrats, pick a "None American", for their Leader???

Ex-Republican for Obama   September 3rd, 2008 7:54 pm ET

So funny!

And how many Republican VOTERS do you think are saying the same thing, but they won't say it un-miced…they will say it in the voting booth.

When Nov 5th comes, and if Obama wins…if you truely can't stand him and have stated so in the blogs…then please by all means….put your money where your mouth is…..and leave OUR country…we're taking it back!

Chris Wagner   September 3rd, 2008 7:54 pm ET

This is validation of why Fox, CNN, MSNBC and their broadcast counterparts have zero credibility any more. They talk and talk and say nothing relevant.

Stories are presented without relevant context and lies are presented equally with the truth, as if there were no difference.

Bye-bye, MSNBC. Who's next?

rob   September 3rd, 2008 7:54 pm ET

Well i think a lot of republicans feel this way just have to put on a front but know she is no right for job the republicans lost and cant win she has brought to much negativity to the party mcain should have stuck to his guns and picked liberman or ridge

Dave, Houston, TX   September 3rd, 2008 7:54 pm ET

I wonder how many of the GOP insiders feel this way too and are just putting on the happy talk to keep from being wiped out of power completely.

Come on, Sarah, bring on the nasty and bring on that religious fanatic crusader talk. Barack Obama is from Chicago which is about 10 times the size of Alaska and the politics there is more rugged than your wildlife and weather together.

judy d   September 3rd, 2008 7:54 pm ET

Go republicans, speak the truth…..its over

Byron, in Cincinnati, OH   September 3rd, 2008 7:54 pm ET

This is hilarious….the true feelings come out when the TV is off. To be honest all of them look dull when talking about Palin, no excitement in their voices…they're being paid to say the same thing over and over again. Guess these two didn't get the Talking Points for today!

steve   September 3rd, 2008 7:53 pm ET

the nerve of those people speaking candidly! There's no greater offense than going off message.

Circular Firing Squad = g.o.p.   September 3rd, 2008 7:53 pm ET

The republicans will continue trying to play Americans as patsies.
If "Sarah the Baracuda" goes after Obama/Biden tonight, she sink faster than one of those wolves she love shoot.

Barbara   September 3rd, 2008 7:53 pm ET

The Emperor has no clothes … someone finally said it on air.

Chris   September 3rd, 2008 7:53 pm ET

This just shows that they are told to lie to the people. Nothing is true. It really doesn't matter as this isn't the way it's supposed to be. The US constitution tells us very clearly how to elect a president and vice president. We have been doing it wrong. Look at the Articles of the Constitution.

RB from NH   September 3rd, 2008 7:53 pm ET

Hahahahahahahahahahahahah!

The Silent One   September 3rd, 2008 7:53 pm ET

This has been one of the most entertaining weeks of my life, and I owe it all to McCain and his Runner up choice, Palin!

It's fun watching Republicans self-destruct.

RJ   September 3rd, 2008 7:53 pm ET

Kinda pales when compared to Jessie Jackson's "open mic" comments. But betcha anything — the mole Axelrod (Obama's "brain") was right around the corner to execute this set-up!

Obama Supporter 08   September 3rd, 2008 7:53 pm ET

They have been talking about this all over the net. Its nice to see that some republicans think like the rest of us. who didn't know this was a stunt McCain pulled. and now its blowing up in his face.

Dave Lemoine   September 3rd, 2008 7:52 pm ET

Your coverage of the RNC is a joke. Y

Barbara   September 3rd, 2008 7:52 pm ET

Let's hear it over and over and over – like the Obama bashing – come on CNN, fair's fair.

Franki   September 3rd, 2008 7:52 pm ET

I wonder if FOX is sorry now for their HOT MIC comments.

This is PRICELESS.

Wynn Padula   September 3rd, 2008 7:52 pm ET

Most republicans feel this way, but they are all lying through their teeth that Palin is a good VP choice.

James from San Diego, Ca   September 3rd, 2008 7:52 pm ET

CHECK MATE!!!!

Hispanic for Obama - Ricky   September 3rd, 2008 7:51 pm ET

LOL oops! Guess you cant blame this on liberals now can you?

Michael, Henderson, Nevada   September 3rd, 2008 7:51 pm ET

The media needs to find out the truth of this selection for the VP slot, there are too many questions that are unanswered. America should be very afraid!!!

Lisa from VA   September 3rd, 2008 7:51 pm ET

The republicans aren't stupid regardless of what most people think. They know this pick was a huge blunder.

D   September 3rd, 2008 7:51 pm ET

……. HAHAHHAHA…. *breath*…HAHAHAHAHAHAHA And whats funnier is I'm a Republican and now voting for Obama

Billy   September 3rd, 2008 7:51 pm ET

Scary that many in the American public don't see the joke that McCain has played on them.

How can respected republicans with decades of service risk their credibility defending McCain's judgment and selection of Palin? They risk ruining their names to tow the party line.

no way, no how, no McCain!   September 3rd, 2008 7:51 pm ET

All the McCain surrogates are lying. It is just obvious, and they are looking ridiculous doing it.

Mike Bulmer   September 3rd, 2008 7:51 pm ET

Thanks for picking this up, CNN. For a moment there I almost thought you were buying this whole spin that GOP leaders really do like Palin.

Brent   September 3rd, 2008 7:51 pm ET

I think that's what a lot of Republicans have been saying, not just with the Palin fiasco but with all the negative Paris/Britney/Moses ads and whatnot, that John McCain, as a person and as a politician, is better than this.

Hillary 2012   September 3rd, 2008 7:51 pm ET

Last week CNN # 1
MSNBC no where near to CNN
I don’t watch MSNBC

John   September 3rd, 2008 7:51 pm ET

Hey McCain camp, is that sexism too??

Carly Fioriana, mr. 9/11 should SHUT UP. THey are a disgrace to America and mankind.

Jolene   September 3rd, 2008 7:50 pm ET

ahahhahahaha

OBAMA/BIDEN 08!

Seeing double   September 3rd, 2008 7:50 pm ET

Did not use the word "trashing" when it was Jesse Jackson – so don't make this into anything worse than Jesse's comments.

leslie song   September 3rd, 2008 7:50 pm ET

Let the truth come out. We need to know the truth so we can pick a president who will get us out of the mess Bush and the GOP have made of this country. We have a right to the truth. And by the way, the idea that McCain gets to 'crown' Palin, when others have worked for YEARS towards positions of great responsibility in government makes me sick. Obama all the way.

LC   September 3rd, 2008 7:50 pm ET

Yikes!

Independent, white female for Obama   September 3rd, 2008 7:50 pm ET

There is a God! Every idiot from the republican party has been praising Plain and acting as tough they are thrilled with the pick. When asked on TV and in front of the camera, they all recite the same exact words, as if they were all given the same line ( by snail mail) not email, lol, that they must say exactly those words with enthusiasim. It is a real crock of sh–. I am so glad some smart republicans are actually being honest to themselves and each other about how ridiculous of a pick Palin is. I think she is a fine woman who is doing really well in a small state and hopefully she is honet, she is being investigated, but she is no Commander in chief and every republican knows it, including John Mccain himself. What a politial bullsh– move. I interviewed my dog groomer/walker/ vet longer than he interviewed Palin. For God's sake! Wake up America! wake up America!

J UAN CARLOS   September 3rd, 2008 7:50 pm ET

T H E——-G I M M I C K—–I S——- T H E ——I N D E C E N C Y———

O F——-T H E—-M E D I U M——–B U T——T H A T——–C A N———-

W O R K——-B O T H ———W A Y S——A S—- I N——-H E L P I N G——

T H E ——-C A N D I D A T E——-W H EN ——S H O W N——-S H E——-

C A N—–T A K E—–I T—— A N D ——–G O —- O N

Bleek Gilliam   September 3rd, 2008 7:50 pm ET

I KNEW these people couldn't possibly believe the drivel they're trying to sell us 24/7- it just defies logic. I'd love to hear Caly Fiorina and tucker Bounds on a hot mic.

Jerry in Nashville   September 3rd, 2008 7:50 pm ET

Murphy and Noonan are among the best. I disagree with them often, but they are a cut above many – even left leaning strategists.

These folks know their stuff. It is over – as of last Friday.

Republicans for Truth   September 3rd, 2008 7:50 pm ET

Truth hurts and I am glad to see some brains in the republican party

napcot   September 3rd, 2008 7:50 pm ET

figures, even the Republicans know how terrible of a candidate she is

Indy in AZ   September 3rd, 2008 7:50 pm ET

Surprise, Surprise!!! Some GOP'ers actually speaking the truth, with no spin… That's okay, this just echos what we already know…

Way to go McCain!! You know how to pick'em….

Your Parents Common Sense   September 3rd, 2008 7:50 pm ET

…….HA HA….the chickens have come home to roost !

oh my   September 3rd, 2008 7:50 pm ET

guess these are the talking points

G   September 3rd, 2008 7:49 pm ET

Well and there you have from their own supporters. No liberal bias there just stating the facts as has been done until the Mccain campaign call foul and everybody suddenly went into hiding their opinions again. Forget the teen preganancy story the real story is Sarah Palin attending the AIP convention in 1994 and 2000 also that her husband is register as undeclared. How can you put country first when your VP belong to a group that wanted Alaska to separate from the U.S. Please post this CNN and report this much more interesting story.

Marc M   September 3rd, 2008 7:49 pm ET

It's over for the country if Obama wins, unless your idea of a great America is a socialist country.

Work hard and earn your way. That's what built America.

Obama is what will tear it down.

DeMJ   September 3rd, 2008 7:49 pm ET

lol Don't be fooled people. They are talking trash now but after Palin give a great speech tonight, every media will start praising how great of a VP she will make, etc… Next thing you know they will say OB and MCsame are neck to neck in the poll. It all show.

Obama is always right   September 3rd, 2008 7:49 pm ET

All these hot mics….

makes you wonder about the integrity and professionalism of the media.

in Oregon   September 3rd, 2008 7:49 pm ET

It is over. They're going to keep finding out terrible things about Sarah Palin. She has lied about her involvement in the "Bridge to Nowhere", has abused her power with everyone from her staff to her town librarian, been involved with a nutso group that wants Alaska to secede from the Union, and has willingly and knowingly put her poor little girl in the center of a political hurricane. What next?

It's such a shame, there are other Republican women politicians who are way way way more qualified. She's a first-term governor, for crying out loud! What was the McCain campaign thinking?

Observer   September 3rd, 2008 7:49 pm ET

Oh, man! This is going to be hard to spin any other way than what we see here. So, how many other Republicans feel this way, but are just keeping quiet? Why am I again reminded of Harriet Miers' nomination for the Supreme Court?
Just how long can John McCain hold this onto hot potato before he turns loose?

McCain Wants Women to VOTE VAGINA in 2008!   September 3rd, 2008 7:49 pm ET

Well, just when I thought Republicans even buy their own BS… its good to know they aren't as nuts as I thought

Anne   September 3rd, 2008 7:49 pm ET

I guess McCain doesnt want to win not only is he a doofus but he picks a doofus and his own party thinks hes a doofus.

Goodson   September 3rd, 2008 7:49 pm ET

The truth is bitter, it might not be told in primetime, but at our kitchen tables we hear it all, we need to know more about Palin and McCain camp is using sexism as damage control, out there in the tough international circus, with the likes of North Korea, China, Venezuela and Russia prowling around, we have to stand up to them, not throw the worn cloaks of sexism at them, it's real hot out there.
He who has ears, let him hear

A Woman In California For Obama   September 3rd, 2008 7:48 pm ET

Let the games begin! It's the truth. She is purely and simply UNQUALIFIED.

Diane Dagenais Turbide   September 3rd, 2008 7:48 pm ET

Good evening,

I do not know how I got lost on your site!!!:) But, this is where I do not understand the judgment of Mr. Cain for choosing Mrs. Palin! You can be the next president and make your own decision but I beleive strongly that you are the ones who set the example of how to make decision based on jugdment! These comments shows how one's behavior at the top, can in a short matter of time loose his team's spirit and that is no prosperity for winning and prosperity for the country at home and abroad!

jm from sc   September 3rd, 2008 7:48 pm ET

The republicans are trying to sell this woman to America with the full knowledge that her experience has been inflated to fool voters that McCain is mentally sane. They will beef up their attacks on Obama trying to paint him as inexperience because they know they have messed up this time.

They will have all kinds of professionals to write her speech in effort to fool voters she is just that smart. Don't be fooled, she's studied and practiced for the performance of her life .

Obama/Biden 08

momis   September 3rd, 2008 7:48 pm ET

why am i not shock? I am sure the GOP's are saying the same thing

Kathyrn   September 3rd, 2008 7:47 pm ET

I love it. I'd like to see how they spin this one.

Marie-Lynn   September 3rd, 2008 7:47 pm ET

Tell everything….WOW

texas4obama   September 3rd, 2008 7:47 pm ET

well there you have it…

Obama/Biden '08

Michelle   September 3rd, 2008 7:47 pm ET

At least they aren't in denial like the rest of their party.

Michael   September 3rd, 2008 7:47 pm ET

At Least someone on the Repugnican side is telling the truth!!!!

As for Gov. Mitt Romney, We thought Family was off limits??? That was gutless and repugnant. Since the "Attacks" on Gov. Palin is being considered sexist, This attack on Michelle Obama can only be considered as sexist and RACIST! This only proves that the Republicans can dish it but they sure cant take it!!!!!

CB   September 3rd, 2008 7:47 pm ET

Wait for it…… and….. Now! HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA….. LOL lol lol lol lol….. mwahahahahahahahahahahahaha… This is your party? You republicans have been duped!!! See how they smile and lie, but when the camera turns the truth comes out. WAKE UP PEOPLE! Everything that you know is a lie

Sam   September 3rd, 2008 7:46 pm ET

Direct from members of the Republican party. For all those that want to blame the media for the horror of McCain's disgraceful pick… just read what your so called party REALLY thinks. 'Nuff said.

unamerican   September 3rd, 2008 7:46 pm ET

BUT WAIT, SHE HAS EXECUTIVE EXPERIENCE AND IS A TYPICAL HOCKEY MOM!

its over.

Dameun Strange   September 3rd, 2008 7:46 pm ET

That truth should have been spoken on the mic.

Andrew   September 3rd, 2008 7:46 pm ET

I find Noonan and Murphy's comments to be very illustrative of a discomfort that is a growing under-current in the Republican Party. John McCain's willingness to drive to the right and pander to the conservative base has made his fellow moderates uneasy. In 2000, John McCain represented traditional Republican values and after eight years of neo-conservativism, I believe many moderates were hoping for the old John McCain.

PUMA IS A KARL ROVE DIRTY TRICK AND A MYTH..   September 3rd, 2008 7:46 pm ET

AND THE TRUTH SHALL SET YOU FREE !!

Leah   September 3rd, 2008 7:45 pm ET

Ouch! that gotta hurt

Denise   September 3rd, 2008 7:45 pm ET

Hypocrits! The whole lot of them….and they shove this newbie down our throats….and expect that it will be business as usual. Don't think so. Not surprised though.

Derek in Seattle   September 3rd, 2008 7:45 pm ET

Bwahahahahah!!!!!

This is so awesome!!!

Sherry, Atlanta   September 3rd, 2008 7:45 pm ET

GIVE THEM BOTH CREDIT. . . THEY TOLD THE TRUTH!

Dave in OC, Vets for Obama   September 3rd, 2008 7:45 pm ET

Gee, how will McCain campaign try and attack their own?

With all due respect to his war record, McCain / Palin campaign has become a joke after 2 1/2 business days.

Campaign Manager said today "this election is not about the issues — it's about personalities.
He actually said that.

Vets for Obama!

Kiki Teague NC   September 3rd, 2008 7:44 pm ET

HOLY ROLLER RIGHT TO LIFERS !! PREPARE TO HAIL YOUR QUEEN !!!

Albert, rhode island   September 3rd, 2008 7:44 pm ET

not even a hurricane with an ethnic name could save these people this week

Coach K   September 3rd, 2008 7:44 pm ET

Wow … they'd better look at becoming Democrats or Independents. John McCain may go to war with them over this little mic incident.

CT Belle   September 3rd, 2008 7:44 pm ET

I wish they would be truthful and say it on the air. Good for them. Yup. Yup. LMAO…

lloyd   September 3rd, 2008 7:44 pm ET

truth hurts don't it.republican commentators said the truth,mccain blew it!

Don from California   September 3rd, 2008 7:44 pm ET

Ouch. hahahaha.

non black nonwhite   September 3rd, 2008 7:43 pm ET

I am not surprised the GOPS are going to fail. Do you hear me Newt Gingrich you are failures for the past 8yrs and you will fail again for all the wrongs the did to america.

Charlotte   September 3rd, 2008 7:43 pm ET

Life is indeed a fish bowl.

Tim   September 3rd, 2008 7:43 pm ET

You forgot when they say she is not qualified to run as VP.

Nice to hear honest commentary from pundits… maybe they all should talk "off the air".

Yasriel   September 3rd, 2008 7:43 pm ET

So slow CNN but at least you picked it up…
It's really over for McCain

Griff   September 3rd, 2008 7:43 pm ET

What they call a "Set Up"… Hey CNN??

annie - former democrat   September 3rd, 2008 7:42 pm ET

As a woman, women like noonut and c. brownose, make me ill! They are so green with envy that they cannot see straight. Get a life you two do nothings – go home and take care of your children – god forbid should you have any.

Palin   September 3rd, 2008 7:42 pm ET

This exactly how they deeply feel inside. Even McCain, he knows his pick is a gimmick!!!!!!!!!

Craig A Texas Democrat   September 3rd, 2008 7:42 pm ET

No its not going to work.

Ron   September 3rd, 2008 7:41 pm ET

The real divided party

Eric   September 3rd, 2008 7:40 pm ET

The truth…is the truth

Thanks- Just-My-Observation   September 3rd, 2008 7:40 pm ET

Lets really look at the experience comparison:

Obama:
B.A in political science from Columbia University, with a specialization in international relations
J.D. in Law from Hardvard, graduated magna cum laude; President of the Harvard Law Review
12 years (92-04) teaching constitutional law
7 years State Senator: sponsored more than 800 bills
4 years Senator for Illinos, a state with 12.8 million people

Palin:
Bachelor's in journalism from University of Idaho
4 years Wasilla City Council (8000 people)
6 years Wasilla mayor (8000 people)
1 year "Ethics Commissioner of the Alaska Oil and Gas Conservation Commission"
20 months governor of a state with 660,000 people

Do the Republicans really think we're so stupid that we would believe she is more experienced than Obama? Give me a break…

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