September 5, 2008
Posted: 02:30 PM ET
Sen. Obama discussed the economy at a campaign event in Pennsylvania Friday.
Sen. Obama discussed the economy at a campaign event in Pennsylvania Friday.

(CNN) — With the conventions over, the running mates picked, and 60 days to go until the election, Friday began a new stage of the presidential campaign. And it came with a big new piece of fodder for both campaigns.

The latest government jobs report, released Friday morning, showed unemployment at a five-year high of 6.1 percent.

Related: CNNMoney.com: Jobless rate soars to 6.1%

"You would think that George Bush and his potential Republican successor John McCain would be spending a lot of time worrying about the economy, and all these jobs that are being lost on their watch," Barack Obama told voters at a campaign stop in Duryea, Pennsylvania.

Instead, he said, speakers at the Republican National Convention "didn't say a thing about what is going on with the middle class."

On the campaign trail, Obama has been working to link McCain to the unpopular president, and to convince voters that McCain doesn't understand the economic troubles facing them.

Some speakers at the Republican convention did discuss the middle class, and McCain promised economic improvements during his speech Thursday night, saying, "These are tough times for many of you. You're worried about keeping your job or finding a new one, and you're struggling to put food on the table and stay in your home."

McCain echoed those remarks Friday at a campaign stop in Cedarburg, Wisconsin — like Pennsylvania, a key swing state. "These are tough times. Today the jobs report is another tough reminder," he said.

He added, "All you ever asked of government is to stand on your side, not in your way. And that's what I intend to do. Stand on your side and fight for your future."

Unlike the day after the Democratic National Convention, when McCain's surprise pick of Sarah Palin for his running mate quickly shifted the media's attention to the GOP camp, Friday brought no major new curve in the race to the White House. But it marked the beginning of a new swing-state blitz, with both camps facing an exhaustive schedule in the coming weeks.

Filed under: Barack Obama • Economy • John McCain


James   September 5th, 2008 5:01 pm ET

The current economic crisis is a result of republican rule in the white house the last 8 years and republican rule in the congress 10 of the last 12 years. The last two, if any republicans are honest enough to admit, have been a series of filibusters by the republicans to keep any legislation from being enacted.

McCain has no plan. He doesn't understand the economy. His VP swicthed colleges over three times before she finally graduated in 6 years.

That's who republicans want to rule the country.

Besides, we all know McCain didn't want Palin.

So, who is powerful enough to tell the republican presidential candidate who he can and can't pick for his VP??

Who's pulling the strings if he really doesn't have the power?

Soldier 4 OBAMA   September 5th, 2008 5:01 pm ET

McCain-Palin talks allot about WAR. The Iraq WAR is not an issue and where it is people supports OBAMA. Jobs, Economy, Healthcare and Education and the significant 4. OBAMA will be able to run laps around McCain because McCain is not talking about the issues, nor is Palin. I guess when you are a small town Mayor of a village of 7000, you really don't understand anything. Palin and McCain will not be become President. It is quite obvious that McCain select her for sinical reasons and she won't be doing any real work. He really killed his chances!

Scott L   September 5th, 2008 5:01 pm ET

DEMOCRATSS ____ CONTROL _____ CONGRESS

JOBS ____ DOWN _____ 6.1%

ANY _____ QUESTIONS????

AVR   September 5th, 2008 5:00 pm ET

What specifically does he plan to do to address the economy?

He talks about preserving the Bush Tax Cuts.

McCain was against the Bush tax cuts because he believed that they were giving too much money to the rich.
Then he realized that he was the rich, and that the TAX CUTS WILL PUT ALMOST $400,000 IN HIS POCKET.
Now he supports them. and asks Americans to fight with him to help him keep the taxpayers money, while the rest of America struggles.
I guess he wants to money to keep the family's private jet fueled, and $500 italian shoes on his feet, and to pay the utility bill on his 8 houses.

Yasriel   September 5th, 2008 4:58 pm ET

If I were Obama's campaign, all I have to do is juxtapose Bush's convention speech of 2000 and that of McCain of 2008. I would show the economic destruction the Repubs have caused in that time frame. And I will play the tape of McCain saying he doesnt really understand economy.
Then I would ask a simple question: "Can we really trust them again?"

Tim   September 5th, 2008 4:58 pm ET

Does Obama have any specifics plans himself ?

He talks about what he want to do, but he have no idea on how to get it done.

Texico From Mexico   September 5th, 2008 4:56 pm ET

howard your dumb….Regannomics never worked! its fact! Trickle down was a failure! Its fact! These facts are indesputible..the data backs it up! You repulicans are way off base when you think all the Dems do is tax you…its is fact that this country is better off economically with a Dem in office! People lie, but the math does not! Go read the book by the princeton prfessor…the numbers are right there!

But I suppose the Republicans are use to Ma & Pa Kettle Math

Antione Bonner Lansing,Mi   September 5th, 2008 4:56 pm ET

84,000 jobs lost in august wow, thats 84,000 more people on the uneployement line while John McCain talks like a wannabe reformer who didn't vote with Bush 90 percent of the time pleaseeeeeeee. It,s amazing watching these republicans squirm like earth worms running scared from their disasterous record. It would be funny if it wasn't so sad and desperate. The economy is not John McCain's strong suit unfortunely for the republicans it shows fortunely for the democrats it shows:-)

Ron   September 5th, 2008 4:55 pm ET

democrats have voted in favor of bush policy over 70% of the time. they also control the house and the senate. why have they not come up with a solution instead of blaming the republicans?

no way- no how - no Hillary, courtesy of Barack Obama

Doug   September 5th, 2008 4:52 pm ET

Palin's response to bad economy - "No abortions in case of rape or incest and no birth control!" John McCain isn't aware that there is an economy problem. He's too busy forgetting how many mansions he has.

Deb   September 5th, 2008 4:52 pm ET

and what exactly will McCain be doing at my side?

Spencer from VA   September 5th, 2008 4:51 pm ET

90% of the time McCain has voted with GWB Ian. 90% of the time90% of the time90% of the time90% of the time990% of the time0% of the time90% of the time90% of the time90% of the time

Vegas Barbie for Obama   September 5th, 2008 4:51 pm ET

The economy has gone so wrong under Bush that it only SEEMS that Obama's tactics are socialist. If anyone could do anything to bring things back just to "Okay" in this country, I'd say "sign 'em up!" What is wrong with fighting for the "common folk". I heard in a news report that Cindy McCain's outfit the other night at the convention cost $300,000, that's HUNDREDS of THOUSANDS of dollars on an outfit and accessories. Not gonna convince ME that old man McCain and the lady redneck are in touch with the needs of the regular people of this country.

Scott L   September 5th, 2008 4:50 pm ET

@Jimmy in California, if you think Obama and Biden are not following their speech writers, my friend, I think you are drunk on the Obama Flavor Aid!

v.ananthan   September 5th, 2008 4:49 pm ET

OBAMA has come so far because he can deliver good speeches written by good writers…

OBAMA has to thank personally president BUSH for his success so far…..

Leta   September 5th, 2008 4:49 pm ET

Jimmy sounds like an equal campaign between both parties there is a Sarah and a Obama SOCK PUPPET for everyone….Hey now there a button…….

Chelsea spent more time at the White House then Hillary lets vote to make her President………

give me a break   September 5th, 2008 4:49 pm ET

JImmy in California—— please what issues are Obama talking about could you name just one with any kind of specificity. Hope and Change is not very specific.

Scott L   September 5th, 2008 4:48 pm ET

DEMOCRAT CONTROLLED CONGRESS, MORE JOB LOSSES.

What else is there to report?

Ken   September 5th, 2008 4:48 pm ET

Well, I see others here have already put Ian in his place using facts, and his own candidates words. These [R] true-believers can't think their way out of a paper bag. It takes a real moron to attempt to defend his candidate by criticizing the veracity of those who are merely using the bragging words of HIS own candidate!

On another thread, I read where someone couldn't wait to see Palin take on Biden in a debate about "big government" and "taxes". Are these [R] neo-tards serious? Their break from reality needs to be clinically diagnosed. If Joe Biden speaks about 'big government', it'll be about the one that THEIR [R] president and late congress gave us between 2000 and 2006. After REDUCING the size of government in the 1990s, we [D]s handed it over to those "small-gov't" [R]s who then proceeded to expand it by a quite significant amount….
{homework for the [R]s: how much bigger (money or workers) is the federal gov't now than it was in the 2000?}……
If Joe Biden speaks of taxes, let's hope he talks about the budget surplus that our last [D] president left us, only to have the [R] president and congress frivolously demolish it by giving huge tax breaks to the wealthy, all while the economy went south (twice in 8 years!!! — a record!!!) and 100's of billions are spent on an ill-defined [R] war with no end — all leading to budget deficits and record national debt.

McCain and his trailer-trash running mate have quite a record to run on. But you neo-wits who haven't an intellectual cell in your head will mindlessly vote for those who call themselves conservative, merely for the feel-good effect of stepping in line to your cherished [R] demagoguery. YOU make America weak.

Gail AL.   September 5th, 2008 4:48 pm ET

Change can only come with the MCcain-Palin ticket. Everyone knows MCcain is not like Bush he's far from him. Obama is same old thing politics as usual.[Chicago Politics] wASHINGTON NEEDS SHAKING UP AND MCCAIN AND PALIN CAN DO IT. The dems are terrified of Palin. she has shook up the media, Obama, and she will shake up washington, you go girl, shake'em up.

No Mr. McGoo and Polly Pure Bread   September 5th, 2008 4:46 pm ET

I was listening to WYCA (Christian radio) this morning and they were interviewing the President of the Southern Baptist Convention. He stated that John McCain called and asked him who he should pick as Vice-President and he told him it would have to be a pro-lifer. So he recommended Polly Pure Bread Palin and some other guy. He said he was shocked that McCain went with Palin. Also, the National Enquirer is reporting that Palin had an affair with her husband's business partner and the media is not reporting this just as they would not report the Edward affair. Lastly, how many of you thought it was distasteful for Palin's daughter and boyfriend to be walking around the stage like they were the national poster teens for pre-marital sex. We don't need people from six different middle of the line schools trying to run this country. Vote Obama

Just Wondering.   September 5th, 2008 4:46 pm ET

To Concerned:

Do you just look over the rude comments made by the Mccain supporters?

Florida Gal   September 5th, 2008 4:46 pm ET

So if McCain is going to bring change could he please tell us how he will do it.

Jason from Arizona   September 5th, 2008 4:45 pm ET

Ian.. so your buying into McCain's lies/smears and personal attacks

McCain claims he knows how to win wars (what war has he ever won?) Answer NONE.. he actually violated American military law by talking about the military.. You can only say Name, Rank, Serial # if ever captured or one will be charged with treason!!

McCain claims he knows how to win the peace (what peace has he brought?) None.. see the next 2 examples below!!

McCain says he wants troops in Iraq (America middle east style) for 50-100 years..

McCain says he wants to "Bomb Bomb Bomb Bomb Iran" and the chuckles about it manically..

Palin is a pot smoker. She wants to censor books/movies/radio/tv/music, etc.. (she fired a librarian, a public safety officer illegally)

She attended 5 colleges in 6 years and YOU want her to be the next VP and President.. cuz lets face it, McCain is too old and weak to handle the rigors and stresses of that job… (Cindy has to hold his arm at the elbow ever time he walks down steps and stairs)

Palin is tied to big oil, her husband Todd works for BP (just what America needs is another person tied to big oil sitting in the white house)

Obama has vision for moving America forward. McCain/Palin don't they only know how to attack with smears, lies and misinformation.. Oh Palin also has a porn video on the net and nude photos as well!!

Phil Newton in Murphy, Oregon   September 5th, 2008 4:45 pm ET

McCain's idea of change is to follow the Bush economic disaster letter for letter.

That's change?

Change is coming, but not from him.

Obama 08

clarence   September 5th, 2008 4:44 pm ET

Palin has fired an awful lot of people in Alaska in an abuse of power. You know the librarian for not obliging to censor books, people in town government who talk to the press without permission, etc… Yet I guess Alaska is pretty insignificant having only a population the same size of Austin Texas, population 670,000, so maybe this fact is not significant.

leapfrog   September 5th, 2008 4:44 pm ET

McCain espouses the same old tired "trickle down" GOP economic policy that's haunted the American people for decades. It's NEVER translated out to actual benefit for our economy or the for the average person's standard of living. Do your research. Look at the periods when there have been Republican presidents. It starts off nice, but by the time they leave, the economy is in the tank. Why? because "trickle down" really means feed the rich, ignore the poor. So as you stand in the unemployment line, do you think McCain's going to do anything to get you a job? Heck no.

captbilly   September 5th, 2008 4:44 pm ET

How many times are the American people going to buy into the idea that cutting taxes for the wealthy while spending billions on the military, will improve the economy. It seems as though politicians are not bound by the normal rules of cause and effect, statistics, science, or just plain decency. I think the Republicans have tried lowering taxes for the wealthy every time they have been in power for the past half century. Every time they have done this, without fail the economy has done worse and the deficit has soared. Why would they, or we, believe that this time the same tactic will result in a different outcome?

It always sounds good to say you will cut taxes, but what the republicans have done time after time is to cut taxes for the extremely wealthy, not for the majority of Americans. In the process the deficit increases dramatically (look what has happened over the past 8 years, or what happened when Reagan was President) so the value of the dollar goes down and the government spends a higher and higher portion of the budget on interest payments (I believe that interest is approaching 50% of the budget now). To put it in the simplist possible terms, it's like charging up your credit card; you have a good time for a while but then you are stuck with the huge interest payments.

THe question is why do the Republicans keep doing this? because they are in the pockets of the very wealthy who benefit from these policies, and the politicians themselves are wealthy. But why do Americans who benefit in no way from these economic policies continue to support them. The answer seems to be that either they don't understand the Republican economic policies or they imagine themselves as some day being wealthy enough to benefit from them. We need laws that benefit all Americans not a tiny wealthy elite.

FreeNLovIt   September 5th, 2008 4:43 pm ET

Howard, how can you say that Obama's economic plan is dangerours/ Arent we all better off 8 years ago? Obama's plan is a Clinton-plan.

This country was run under a Republican leadership and they got all they wanted. The exact policy that McCain is promoting and we're not going anywhere.

It's time for change.

greg   September 5th, 2008 4:43 pm ET

McCain did stand up to Bush and vote against all those tax cuts that went mostly to the wealthy. Right Ian!!?

no trickle down...   September 5th, 2008 4:42 pm ET

6.1% unemployment rate is a great example of an economy 'that's doing just fine'!

John, don't you and your wife have another $300,000 (three hundred thousand!) shopping spree to go on. That in itself will support the employment of a few part-timers and get the economy going. Right McCain?

McCain has no idea! Stop grinning at me old man!

Baze   September 5th, 2008 4:42 pm ET

Now McCan't uses the Change you can believe in slogan. Actually he's right, you can believe that he will constantly change his message, and the wicked witch of the west will be right by his side screaming. Eh heee heee heeeeee… I'll get you my pretties, and the last of your little American life that you value too.

STOP THE MADNESS!!!! ONE NATION!!

clarence   September 5th, 2008 4:41 pm ET

McCain's solution of Spending $10 Billion a month in Iraq for the next 10, 50 or 100 years is not helping. Oh well of course, it's creating a lot of jobs in Iraq, you know building their roads, schools… But I guess I am really concerned about the jobs in the USA!

joshua, tennesse.   September 5th, 2008 4:41 pm ET

yep, no lapel pin, no solutions, no plan,

just remember:

WAR HERO + P.O.W. = SOLUTIONS FOR PROBLEMS AND ISSUES AND LAPEL PINS…. YOU WILL HEAR THE WAR RETHORIC FOR THE NEXT 3 MONTHS… GET USED TO IT.

Palin just repeats wathever karl rove, I mean the campaing tells them to say, she is an empty suit.

Gerry   September 5th, 2008 4:40 pm ET

It comes to this; there is a risk in choosing Obama, but there is a real chance that he truly possesses the greatness that so many see in him. There is no chance whatsover that McCain can dig us out of the deep hole dug by the man whose failed policies and tired right wing myths are shared by McCain.This is the tipping point for America. Our wealth and power are still far to great for us to become a lesser nation. But there are many signs that we are becoming too fearful and cynical to move forward, while our economic and political adversaries grow stronger, bolder, and more inspired. America must take a chance on real change, we must take risks to or we will become old, tired, and dispirited before our time.

FreeNLovIt   September 5th, 2008 4:40 pm ET

I'm speechless with McCain. On the day of your Prez acceptance, you cut all ties with Bush. Is that too late to be authentic?

RCH, St. Paul, MN   September 5th, 2008 4:39 pm ET

I find it hilarious that McClone says that the best way to fix all the problems caused by Republicans in America is to … elect another Republican! How stupid does he think we are?

Charlotte   September 5th, 2008 4:39 pm ET

Didn't Obama vote for the Cheney energy bill? All he talks about is to point to what John is or isn't talking about as if that makes his talking about John the whole point? What ????Obama talks in circles..

SUPPORT FOR AMERICA   September 5th, 2008 4:39 pm ET

ANOTHER EXAMPLE WHY REPUBLICAN'S CAN'T RUN A COUNTRY — LOST JOBS, RECORD HIGH GAS PRICES, FALLING DOLLAR, RECORD DEFICITS, INCREASING ENERGY AND FOOD PRICES, BIN LADEN ON THE LOOSE ETC.

WHY SHOULD THE REPUBLCIANS BE GIVEN FOUR MORE YEARS?

WAKE UP PEOPLE! VOTE OBAMA 08

Brad   September 5th, 2008 4:38 pm ET

Wouldn't it be refreshing to us all if just once, a member of the other party would actually say something positive about the other or actually agree withn them. I can always tell frorm just listening without even knowing who is talking, which party that person is with. They all say they are going to end the bi-partisanship, but truthfully none fo them will. Also why does it seem that everyone talks about President Bush's poor approval rating, when the democratically controlled congress numbers are even lower. When will you all get it that one person does not have all the power. Let's all wake up and replace these do nothing congress members. They are the ones that really are putting us all second.

Leta   September 5th, 2008 4:38 pm ET

By the way the people that lost those jobs were probably working cash only jobs….and the tax money never helped anyone but those not paying taxes…..And then you wonder "Why do my taxes keep going up"
give me the Statics from the Unemployment commission…..No a computer poll on who on line at 1:00pm has a job……? and tell me 6.1% are unemployed……..This is just unnecessary gum knocking and teeth clicking jiberish……

ohio   September 5th, 2008 4:38 pm ET

what they hell kinda outfit cost $300.000 ?
McCain feels your Pain HAHAHHAHAHAHAHA
11 houses, 300,000 outfits, everyone has healthcare they can go the emergency room, the economy is strong we all are a bunch of whiners, we lose 605,000 jobs and the economy is not as strong as we like!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! hahahahahaha

amused   September 5th, 2008 4:38 pm ET

Just when i thought that the american public could not become anymore clueless i stand corrected. reading your comments here furthers my belief that the downward spiral of america is its citizens and not the government. you are selfish and self serving. most of you would sell your soul for a nicer car or bigger house. perhaps you should educate yourselves about the role of the 3 branches of government and then decide who has dropped the ball.

Right Turn   September 5th, 2008 4:36 pm ET

Who cares…obama who? I just want to see stories on Sarah!

Grinell Meadors   September 5th, 2008 4:35 pm ET

Which of the two senators will go to DC and sponsor bills to fix something NOW instead of just talk/talk/talk about what is hoped for in the future??? Keep in mind Obama has not written one single bill during his tenure in the Senate, nor while he was in Illinois

ashley   September 5th, 2008 4:35 pm ET

What does John McCain's experience have to do with America's needs? Where is Osama Bin Laden and why hasn't he been brought to justice? Is anyone scared that McCain said we could be in Iraq for 100 years|? Do we not care about the environment anymore? Drill baby drill with only 3% of reserves? How can anyone say our economy is strong? Is it okay Mr. McCain voted with Bush 90% of the time? Why are the republicans trying to act like Palin can match up to Hillary as if they stand for the same things? Why is it okay that her 17 year old unmarried daughter is pregnant? Why is it okay that we just lost 84,000 jobs this month? Why has the employment rate raised 1.1% in the past year? Aren't republicans supposed to be the moral value of the country? Is it okay the price of consumption increased but the hourly wages did not?

If you have all these questions, Vote Obama Biden 08!

Joe St Louis, MO   September 5th, 2008 4:35 pm ET

Wait a Minute

Bush and Mccain,

They could have NOT given tax breaks to companies for moving jobs away.

They could have NOT deregulated the mortgage industry. Then bailed them out.

They could have STOPPED large tax breaks for their oil buddys.

They could have stayed the course chasing Osama Bin Laden.

They could have looked at the intel reports before 9/11.

They could have NOT changed the Constitution to give the Pres free will to do what ever he wishes.

That is what they could have done.

CW4Barack   September 5th, 2008 4:34 pm ET

Down with McBushPalin!

CitizenAJ   September 5th, 2008 4:34 pm ET

People accused Obama of having no substantive plans but where are Senator McCain's? He talked about hard times but offered no solutions, he nor his new VP side show. This man is banking on the ignorance and lack of thinking on your own of the American people. That translates to, "I am not going to do nothing for you like the current President, I just want to get elected".

America pulled out of Vietnam because the government finally realized it was bogged down in a conflict it could not win for the South Vietnamese. John McCain and many others saw that as defeat. This is why he describes withdrawing from Iraq as "surrender" or "losing". Yet, he nor G.W. have never clearly stated what is victory in Iraq. When will the Iraqis, who were supposed to be happy to be liberated, step up and take charge of THEIR sovereign nation? How long is John McCain willing to wait for the Iraqi government to take this responsibility? Why all of a sudden are their offenses into Pakistan in pursuit of the terrorist that attacked the U.S., something Senator Obama called for months ago? You smell that too?

Tim Hutchins   September 5th, 2008 4:34 pm ET

Which os the two senators will go to DC and sponsor bills to fix something NOW instead of just talk/talk/talk about what is hoped for in the future??? Keep in mind Obama has not written one single bill during his tenure in the Senate, nor while he was in Illinois.

leapfrog   September 5th, 2008 4:34 pm ET

McCain? Fight for your future? Sure he will, right after he makes sure every major oil company rapes you for every dime you have and has oil wells covering every national park. Then he has to make sure that all the major corporations have their tax shelters and loopholes. THEN he'll fight to make sure you can get a job selling french fries…just as soon as he eliminates the minumum wage.

JImmy in California   September 5th, 2008 4:32 pm ET

Obama is talking about issues here at home. He is talking about things that are hurting us deeply now and Palin tries to him him on Iraq. All she is doing is reporting what the McCain writers are telling her to say. Sounds like a puppet to me. She should look at Obama and Biden. Now there is a team. They consult with each other and work together. Biden is no puppet for Obama. Good for you Obama and Biden. Stay on the issues and let Palin wear her lipstick.

Howard   September 5th, 2008 4:32 pm ET

OBAMA'S ECONOMICS ARE DANGEROUS !!!
Unemployment at 6.1% simply reinforces McCain's argument that if you raise taxes on businesses, they will have to cut back their work force in order to keep their doors open. In the short run, Obama's desire to raise taxes on businesses, and give the money to struggling Americans sounds good … but, it panders to people's desire for hand outs and immediate gratification … for, in the long run, this kind of bad judgement is like eating the goose that lays the golden eggs … or, like eating your seed crop, instead of using the seeds to grow more crops. Raising the taxes on businesses is the best way to dramatically increase unemployment in America.

Dem Tax Cuts   September 5th, 2008 4:32 pm ET

Cutting personal taxes is great! Go for it Obama! But guess what, if you raise taxes companies have to pay it rolls down hill. I will have to pay more for my products, ie food, gas, utilities. I will pay higher property taxes with his plan. How is that helping me?

Erik   September 5th, 2008 4:32 pm ET

I'm more interested in seeing Sarah Palin grant a few interviews with veteran journalists. Why not, Governor? is Ms. Pit Bull Barracuda afraid?

FR   September 5th, 2008 4:31 pm ET

Question: Why does Republicans have to wait for McCain to come into office to implement new policies that they were talking about in the RNC? Pres. Bush still have 4 months. I am sure he can avail this time, give McCain a headstart and start implementing those new policies.

Answer: What new policies? There were no new policies discussed.

Michelle   September 5th, 2008 4:30 pm ET

If we don't elect O and Joe into office we will continue to see unemployment rise because Cain and Sara just ain't Abel. I can tell you what will increase also the soup kitchens throughout America and foreclosures will continue. We at least need to try something new since a Republican president has done such a poor job by misleading the country into a war costing us billions. If you listen to the Republicans you can't get a straight answer on anything. The only thing they are worried about is tax increases for the wealthiest of people because the majority of them are the wealthiest people in the USA.

Mikey   September 5th, 2008 4:29 pm ET

wait a minute September 5th, 2008 4:12 pm ET
What could Bush have done after Clinton pushed to sign the unfair trade agreements on his watch?
___________________________________________________
Give me a break, so now those supporting the Republicans are against free trade? If you are, voting for the GOP would be exactly the wrong vote. This goes to the heart of the theory that Republican win elections by convincing people to vote against their own self interests.

I guess that's what the 500 references to patriotism and McCain being a POW were all about. If you voted for Bush twice, are having trouble making ends meet, and THEN vote for McCain, you will get exactly what you deserve!

Ken Pittsburgh   September 5th, 2008 4:29 pm ET

Michela
thanks for your comments back to Ian if you going to vote looked up fact for yourself do noy read the talking points and please turn off Rush for a day

J. Dean   September 5th, 2008 4:29 pm ET

IF OLD MAN JOHN McCAIN WAS NOT ELIGIBLE IN 2000, WHAT MAKES HIM ELIGIBLE IN 2008, NOW THAT HE IS OLDER AT 72, HEY !

Lynn   September 5th, 2008 4:29 pm ET

It doesn't matter anymore who did what , when and how.

LOOK AT WHERE WE ARE NOW.

NOW IS THE DAY BEFORE TOMORROW and NOW IS THE TIME TO START FOR TOMORROW.

There is only one person to choose in this race that offers any HOPE for the changes we need to turn this country around. If you think things can't get worse, THINK AGAIN.

McCain gave us NOTHING to VOTE FOR!!!!!!! NOTHING. This could very well be the most important election in the History of THIS NATION.
God Graced Us with a BRAIN. WE MUST REALLY USE IT NOW.

Tom   September 5th, 2008 4:28 pm ET

A terrific 'non-comment' with no substance from McSame. If I close my eyes I can hear #43 saying the same thing a while back.

Patrick, Takoma Park MD   September 5th, 2008 4:28 pm ET

I wonder what Sarah Palin has to say about this unemployment report? We'll never know, since the McCain campaign isn't allowing anyone to interview her.

New Opinion   September 5th, 2008 4:28 pm ET

McCain said clearly that he would cut taxes. If you cut the taxes a company has to pay it means they have more money to HIRE EMPLOYEES! Doesn't that grow the economy? What a plan, don't take all my money in taxes, let me spend it the way I need to spend it. Why pay for social programs that I don't want or need?

Leta   September 5th, 2008 4:28 pm ET

Wait a Minute: I think they are probably refering to Papa Bush……But here again the only people sitting on the fence in Del Rio Texas watching illegal trade were Al Gore, Marc McDougal and none other but Hillary Clinton……HILLARY is going to SCREAM FROM THE MOUNTIAN TOPS THAT SHE "WAS NEVER FOR NAFTA" Lets take a look back to that great bean footage from Democratic Convention October 15, 1994…Bill was at the Hotel……Oh and does anyone remeber seeing Bill sign the NAFTA agreement………each letter in his name was written with a different pen and then handed out to all those standing around…….???? ask the 6.1% how they lost there jobs in such a hurry…….send out a question aire…….We should make sure those numbers are correct…..?

FreeNLovIt   September 5th, 2008 4:28 pm ET

To Anonymous and your writings " Now they also want to use their women such as Clinton,and others to go do the work.It sad that after the DNC mistreat and focerd MRS. CLINTON to suspend her campaign their asking her to go all over the country to help him.That's not how you treat women."

This is why America is a great country! Because we have people like Hillary and Gore. The power of love and forgiveness takes us all farther into the future and beyond what other countries can accomplish!!

India and China have 2 billion+ people, but there's no love. There's no forgiveness. There's no equality. There's no change.

America is a great country! Gore bears the scars of Bush's election wins, but he TOOK it like an American. Instead of holding grudges, he went on to fight for what he believes.!! He went on to educate everyone!!

God I love the American Spirti! Thank God for America!

janine   September 5th, 2008 4:28 pm ET

"Voters who choose McCain in November will be picking a president whose personal ideology places him near Bush on most major issues."

Source: Online from NationJournal

DWI   September 5th, 2008 4:27 pm ET

"These are tough times for many of you. " Thanks for noticing, John. I can almost feel him patting me on the head and saying "there there." What a tin ear for what's going on with our lives. I can't afford to buy a house, and Cindy McCain wears $300,000 worth of garb to the convention. This sucks.

DeMJ   September 5th, 2008 4:27 pm ET

OMG you didn't just defend Bush? He had 8 years to make a different. 8!

tammie   September 5th, 2008 4:12 pm ET

Is anyone else getting tired of the same old speech over & over by Palin? Is one speech all she can handle?

wait a minute   September 5th, 2008 4:12 pm ET

What could Bush have done after Clinton pushed to sign the unfair trade agreements on his watch?

Linda Welch   September 5th, 2008 4:01 pm ET

Stop fighting with the Right Wingers. Remember what they did in 2000 when they all flocked down to Florida and started threatening people everywhere. Remember how they kept yelling in Washington to Al Gore, "Get out of Dick Cheney's House?" They are a dangerous group of folks. They do not want to lose their grip on power. They now control the agenda in Washington. Bush, McCain, Graham, Lieberman, McConnell…. and all the rest of them. They are frantic to hold on to their power, so they are promoting all of the Christian Coalition and Anti-Abortion crowd to fight for them. What we intelligent folks have to do is stay focussed. Get a group of friends together this weekend and pick a community and go door to door with materials about Obama and tell people why you support him. Be positive… Keep working for Change and it will come.

Shave Little Miss Ice Chip Off the Runway   September 5th, 2008 4:00 pm ET

Ian, you're missing the point! It's not the last eight years I worry about; it's the next eight. Factually speaking, if John McCain had stayed the "mavrick" (spelling from a redneck, right-wing nutjob supporter's sign at the GOP convention) he once was, those stats would hold true on a good day, but if you just look at Bush's second term, it's been 90%.

Oops! Sorry, nice attempt at the ol' FAUX NEWS spin of the truth, but I and a lot of other intelligent, informed American voters ain't buyin' the McCain/Palin moose poop agenda. And don't insult our intellect by reminding us Bush doesn't vote, we already know that. If he did, we be in deeper debt and worse national standing than we are already.

michael b   September 5th, 2008 4:00 pm ET

thank you pennsylvania voter get it right lan

Diana   September 5th, 2008 3:59 pm ET

All those who support Obama need to really look at his record. You can actually pull up any Senators record and check how they vote. We are not electing a hollywood celbrity, we are electing someone who can move us into the futre. Obama is not ready for that yet. Give him another 4 years and he might be. You elect a president like you pick a job applicant. Forget party (yes, I am a democrat too) look at their record. Unfortunately most Americans don't. They listen to all the high eloquent speeches and think "wow" amazing. If we were voting for that than Obama would have my vote, but he's not. Once you take away his speech writer and the teleprompter, he stumbles..learn the facts..then vote!

Terry from GA   September 5th, 2008 3:59 pm ET

George Bush and the Republicans had 8 years to get it right and they completely dropped the "economic" ball. It's time for them to step aside.

Jordan - San Marcos TX   September 5th, 2008 3:59 pm ET

If someone who was just being introduced to the United States watched the RNC, they would probably think that there is not such thing as an economy.

AMN   September 5th, 2008 3:59 pm ET

He'll fight for your future if you are rich like him. If not, he'll just throw you under the bus financially and step over your dead body to chase bin Laden to the gates of Hell.

Spider   September 5th, 2008 3:55 pm ET

I confess, I have not heard the entire quotes from the two candidates, just the snippets recorded in this article. However, if these are representative of the whole, which candidate is attacking the other instead of looking at the problem and comng up with a solution?

Michaela   September 5th, 2008 3:54 pm ET

Ian .. they are quoting 90% based on the last 3 years. The previous 4 years especially in 2000 McCain was against Bush as in running against him

Since McCain decided to run again he has embraced Bush policies .. he is on youtube saying he has supported Bush himself.

I see when you quote Obama statistics you pick the years of your choosing .

Typical right win nut job

Tina   September 5th, 2008 3:54 pm ET

Can someone PLEASE guide John McBUSH back to the old folks retirement home that he wondered away from. This old man and his creepy wife give me the willys. I can't imagine 4 more years of looking at them.

Please vote OBAMA.

NO MORE BUSH/Wacked Politics.

NO John McBUSH and Sarah Fail'n

JustCheck   September 5th, 2008 3:54 pm ET

> According to the National Journal, the authority on Congressional vote
> ratings, McCain voted with his party 59.7% of the time during the 8
> years of the Bush administration.

Wow, I am continually amazed at the levels of blatant falsehoods you Repugnicans will stoop to. Check out the facts (http://mediamatters.org/items/200808270008)

McCain Presidential Support Score
2001 91%
2002 90%
2003 91%
2004 92%
2005 77%
2006 89%
2007 95%

What else ya' got liar?

Maggie VT   September 5th, 2008 3:54 pm ET

Unfortunately, JM did vote 90 percent of the time with Bush. And anyone who has been in the Senate for 26 years and has this to show for it, I feel very sorry for them. And, I guess I don't understand this country anymore. I was brought up to tell the truth. I have watch Palin several times tell the same story over and over again about the "bridge to nowhere", selling the airplane on Ebay when in fact a millionaire in Alaska bought it, she had a surplus, yet left as Mayor with a 20 million dollar deficit. Yet people think this is great, she is a great person. What would happen if Obama told those stories???? Please!!!!!

Ed   September 5th, 2008 3:53 pm ET

Ian, You have your facts wrong… According to the Congressional Quarterly’s vote studies, John McCain has in fact voted with the President 89% of the time since the President took office in 2001. If you don't know what you are talking about, it might be better to say nothing at all. Easy to call someone a liar, when you don't use the truth yourself.

Enlightened Republican for OBAMA!   September 5th, 2008 3:53 pm ET

Ian - You dont have a clue as to what you're talking about!

Your data reeks of the FOX propaganda "news" station.

Obama   September 5th, 2008 3:52 pm ET

NO MCCAIN, PERIOD.

Wayne   September 5th, 2008 3:52 pm ET

You dont have to guess what the economy will be like under McCain. Close your eyes, think about the last 8 years. Now open your eyes. Thats what the next 4 would look like under McCain.

Bruce   September 5th, 2008 3:52 pm ET

No plan.
McCAin in his own words says he voteed with Bush 90% of the time. Supported the failed policies that got us where we are now..6+% unemplyment, a looming recession..and what do we hear….Country First…perhaps from the what i saw of the repubs at the convention it should be "country club first"
Did anyone else notice that the great patriot, did not wear a lapel pin last night, nor anything in the colors of the country.
Had this been Obama everyone would have been all over it.
The reoubs had 7 years controlliing DC and 8 years in the White House…time to throw the bums out….all of them.

Bruce   September 5th, 2008 3:52 pm ET

No plan.
McCAin in his own words says he voteed with Bush 90% of the time. Supported the failed policies that got us where we are now..6+% unemplyment, a looming recession..and what do we hear….Country First…perhaps from the what i saw of the repubs at the convention it should be "country club first"
Did anyone else notice that the great patriot, did not wear a lapel pin last night, nor anything in the colors of the country.
Had this been Obama everyone would have been all over it.
The reoubs had 7 years controlliing DC and 8 years in the White House…time to throw the bums out….all of them.

McCain + Sarah = confused leadership   September 5th, 2008 3:52 pm ET

Kate and all these poeple who are so easily taken in by McCain.
You are all like those animals in Animal farm by George Owell. Allowing others to think for you.
Sarah Palin was not a hands on mayor or Governor. She dismissed all people who disaggred with her.
She let other people do her work and with six days conviencing you've all been taken in. I'm sorry for people who don't use their brains because sooner or later it will have major shrinkage or atrophy.

Kate   September 5th, 2008 3:52 pm ET

Im tired of people acting like parrots on this McCain and 90% with Bush. Do you people know that Obama voted over 97% with the Democratic Party? His record also made him THE most liberal senator in 2007. So we'll have a Democratic majority in both the House, Senate and the White House. Checks and balances out the window. Think about that you parrots!

Erica   September 5th, 2008 3:51 pm ET

McCain is a wolf in sheep's clothing! People need to wake up and smell the coffee, this man has ZERO plans to put our economy back on track, only to keep supporting BIG OIL, and starting more wars over oil! Stop voting Republican just because your mommy and daddy always have, grow up, and vote the issues that matter. Abortion, guns, and sexual orientation are ethical matters we all will have to account for on judgment day, right now, we NEED a TRUE LEADER with sound judgment, intelligence and patience. McCain is NONE of those. I fear the day if he is ever elected.

Lost of CNN Moderation   September 5th, 2008 3:50 pm ET

John McCain's plan for jobs in America

Find another country to ship them too! That's about all he's got.

McCain sure is sounding a lot like Obama lately. "Change" , "fight for your future". Yeah right.

The only thing that makes McCain a Maverick is the fact that he's changed so much you can't tell where he stands.

No Way, No How, No McCain/Palin

No way No How No Mccain-Palin   September 5th, 2008 3:50 pm ET

Mccain is the Reason that This Country has Lost all those Jobs he Voted with Bush 90 % of the time and He voted Against Equal rights for WOmen. Obama and Joe Biden really care about women that is why they have high ratings from women's Orgainizations for voting for women's rights while Old Mccain Has the Lowest. This Election is Clear John Mccain will fail the American People while Obama and Biden will help us succeed

Anonymous   September 5th, 2008 3:49 pm ET

Why all of a sudden the DNC doing town hall meetings? Funny how Obama said tha using coal as a source of energy is the most dirtiest to used now hes saying that we should used it . Ins't that sound like Kerry a flip flop.Now they also want to use their women such as Clinton,and others to go do the work.It sad that after the DNC mistreat and focerd MRS. CLINTON to suspend her campaign their asking her to go all over the country to help him.That's not how you treat women.

concerned   September 5th, 2008 3:49 pm ET

I get very concerned when I read the extremely shrill and sarcastic comments on CNN made by obviously die-hard Obama supporters.

Some of them are just plain rude.

CNN should moderate these comments.

Ohioan   September 5th, 2008 3:49 pm ET

To Ian:

Senator Obama did not attack senator McCain without any basis. It was an interview that John McCain stated that he voted more than 90% of time with George Bush, more than some of his Republican colleagues.

This is straight from John McCain himself. How can you use a fuzzy math to criticize Senator Obama's voting record. This is disgrace.

No McPander/Palin Ever!

oldsoldierboy   September 5th, 2008 3:49 pm ET

After a couple of speeches Palin-mania has set in. Amazing how quick bandwagoners jump on. She hasn't even been asked a question yet and to think some Americans are ready to vote for her. I personally can not vote for a person who supports succession from the U.S. If I was an active duty troop I'd be mad as hell. They will have to put their lives on the line for a VP candidate who doesn't even support their country. Her views are so crazy she tried to deny citizens access to certain books at their local library.

I wonder if New Yorker magazine will be fair and do an drawing of McCain & Palin bumping fist with a U.S. flag burning in the fireplace and a rebel flag hanging on the wall with the words separation party written below. Palin dressed in camoflauge with black boots and red lipstick and a map of the U.S. divided up into colonies laying on the desk.

A pit bull with lipstick is not the kind of temperment we need in a VP. She believes the Iraq war was gods will so you can conclude war with Iran, Syria and god knows who else will be gods will also. McCain wants to institute the draft and with her pit bull attitude they will have us fighting all over the globe. WAKE UP AMERICA before we all find ourselves under direct fire.

geecee827   September 5th, 2008 3:49 pm ET

Is it true that one of Cindy McCain's outfits that she wore this week at the Convention cost about $300,000? She spends that kind of money on clothes and jewelry? Talk about out-of-touch with the common man. How ostentatious can you get?

Jan From Boca aton, Fl   September 5th, 2008 3:49 pm ET

I have a very simple question. Who is going to pay for her Nannies and babysitters if she is elected as VP?? ANd what happens if she gets pregnant again?? She' pretty good at popping out babies.

If this going to be another expense us the tax payers are going to have to pay?? Taking care of her kids.

CD   September 5th, 2008 3:48 pm ET

Mr McCain wants to focus on the past. He tells us about his time in a POW camp. Though we salute him and his sacrafice, it won't pay the mortgage. We needed him when he was at the right hand of Mr Bush, yet his only focus was on Iraq and the Iraqi people. Maybe he should swing through Bagdad and solicit votes.

Mr MCCain all those people that lost their jobs are Americans. The $10 billion you advocate spending this last month could've been better served spent here in America. Charity begins at home.

Scott, Wichita   September 5th, 2008 3:48 pm ET

I'm tired of both sides. McCain hasn't done anything to convince me I'm not voting for another Bush, and Obama is the first politician since Hitler to get 250,000 people to rally in Berlin.

Mickey Mouse/ Donald Duck '08!

Pennsylvania Voter   September 5th, 2008 3:48 pm ET

Ian, the President has to sign or veto legislation that appears before his desk. Furthermore, he tells the leaders of his party the position he has on any particular legislation

MCCAIN —– HIMSELF —– SAID —– HE —–VOTED

WITH —— BUSH —— 90% —– OF —– THE —- TIME

MORE —- THAN —- MANY —- OF —–HIS —–REPUBLICAN

COLLEAGUES!!!!

Don't feed people these lies, Ian.

FL Obama Supporter   September 5th, 2008 3:48 pm ET

Ian…McCain specifically said on camera that he's voted with Bush over 90% of the time.

Look it up.

Matt, Las Vegas   September 5th, 2008 3:47 pm ET

Don't worry folks! Cindy McCain is going to donate the next $300,000 outfit she wears to the homeless…..because, ya know…"times are tough".

john   September 5th, 2008 3:47 pm ET

IS SARAH PALIN READY FOR 3AM CALL ?

Frank Canada   September 5th, 2008 3:47 pm ET

You can see by this blog McCain only appeals to dim witted and there are getting to be fewer and fewer of them. Of course I am referring to Ian's statement which simply isn't factual.

victor,nj   September 5th, 2008 3:46 pm ET

HELLO MY FELLOW BLOGGERS, BY READING SOME OF THE COMMENTS LATELY I AM HAPPY THAT A MAJORITY YOU ARE THE WELL INFORMED INDIVIDUALS WHO ARE NOT FALLING FOR THE BS THAT REPUBLICANS ARE TRYING TO FEED US. THE REPUBS ARE TRYING TO MAKE THIS ELECTION ABOUT PATRIOTISM, ABORTION, SEXISM AND FEAR, WHILE IGNORING THE PREDICAMENT THE NATION IS IN. HOWEVER LETS NOT IGNORED THAT A MAJORITY OF VOTERS ARE EASILY MISGUIDED BY FOXNEWS, RUSH LIMBAUGH, AND SEAN HANNITY. I HUGE EVERY ONE TO EDUCATE YOUR NEIGBHORS, FRIENDS, FAMILY MEMBERS ON ACTUAL FACTS. THIS ELECTION IS TOO IMPORTANT ESPECIALLY AFTER WATCH THE STAND UP ROUTINE THE REPUBS CALL A CONVENTION.

lisa Asian   September 5th, 2008 3:45 pm ET

OBAMA has not lead to any positive change in 47 years! He TALKS about it every day. Wake up people, if you are not the same color as him.

Ariel   September 5th, 2008 3:44 pm ET

McSame won't be able to take weekends off for the next two months if he works as hard as Obama to campaign. But then again, he might still stick to his "no work on weekends" and make his pitbull do all the work. Feel bad for the special needs 4 month old baby who needs his mother to be by his side. Perhaps McSame can help with baby sitting while pit bull goes on her attacks even on the weekends for him!

Enlightened Republican for OBAMA!   September 5th, 2008 3:44 pm ET

McShame's only plan is to get into the Whitehouse by any means possible. Lie, trash talk, distract from the real issues that’s all the plan he has. If he were to actually get into the Whitehouse, God help us cause we'd be on our own.

Chips   September 5th, 2008 3:44 pm ET

The republican party have no ideals of their own. But yet they continue to bash Obama.

If you watched the RNC convention. You should have notice, they took (STOLE) all of Baracks ideals and
talking points. They implemented (STOLE) everything from the DNC convention with a twist and turn, but still
could not top the DNC. American, please DO NOT be fooled by the RNC Karl Rove tactic. This race is about our children future and American.

McCain offer up no real solutions to the American people, yet riding on the coat-tail of Barack Obama. They say Barack can't lead, but McCain is study following Baracks lead. Q: WHO IS THE LEADER? McCain played on the sympathy vote. Though McCain's sevice is commendable. We were flooded with the POW story every singal night.

My question to you the American people. When you have a chance to choose an original. Are you going to pick the copy? I don't think SO. NOT THIS TIME.

Terry, Butte, Mt   September 5th, 2008 3:44 pm ET

"All you ever asked of government is to stand on your side, not in your way."

-Under Bush/McCain, government has got out of the way for the morgage companies and people are losing their homes.

-Under Bush/McCain, government has got out of the way of the oil companies and gas prices have risen from $1.78 per gallon to over $4.

-Under Bush/McCain, government has got out of the way of companies shipping jobs overseas and the Americans have lost jobs.

-Under Bush/McCain, government has got out of the way of inspecting goods arriving at our shores while the American people have eaten tainted food and children have played with led painted toys.

-For decades the Republicans and Bush/McCain have worked to have government get out of the way of the environment, while ice caps melt and storms intensified.

a d   September 5th, 2008 3:43 pm ET

I find it very interesting that the media is picking apart every single aspect of Sarah Palin, yet they failed to do the same with Obama. I would like to ask the MSM this question: who is running for President? Palin is running for VP, not POTUS. Besides, Woodrow Wilson became President after 1.5 years as NJ governor. Why isn't anyone quick to release this fact? About the economy, Obama has no real grasp that the housing problem was a direct result of Bill Clinton's housing deregulation measures not because of Bush. Clinton signed NAFTA, which shipped jobs. Bush has made mistakes but he is not responsible for these issues.

Pam   September 5th, 2008 3:43 pm ET

I found it touching Sen. McCain acknowledged that many of us are in tough times, when Vanity Vair reported Cindy McCain's ensemble she was wearing the previous night came with a price tag of over THREE HUNDRED THOUSAND DOLLARS. They are so out of touch that I truly feel sorry for them.

Obama/Biden 08

Kate   September 5th, 2008 3:43 pm ET

Obama, you are starting get off message by attacking McCain without any basis. Just stick to what you plan on doing and not what they aren't doing. So frustrating. And you claim to run a positive campaign. Let's face it, BHO is just another politician.

Jon   September 5th, 2008 3:42 pm ET

It's not that the Republicans couldn't come up with an economic plan. They choose not too because this recession is just in our heads and we need to quit whining about it. Or, that must be how it seems when you're sitting on millions of dollars of inheritance money and too many homes to keep track of. The Republican's "country first" mantra makes me sick.

Shawn   September 5th, 2008 3:42 pm ET

Your quote extolling the virtues of McCain promising economic improvements contains no such economic improvements. Neither did the whole convention. He has no plans and according to his campaign this election is "not about the issues".

No Way, No How, No McBush

Paris   September 5th, 2008 3:42 pm ET

The problem is Obama wants to fix the economy by Socialism.

Where McCain will fix our economy by empowering the people.
John McCain believes in the power of the people over government.

Wal   September 5th, 2008 3:41 pm ET

2 members of a ticket don’t have the intellect needed as president of the most sophisticated economy and government in the 21st century, and no more than 4 years in college. One doesn’t even know how to use a computer. Good intention without understanding is useless.
Palin never went out United States until last year.

How can she understands the complexity of our interventionist abroad? Both will depends on advisers on any single decision.
That will be worse than Bush because he at least has a master degree.
The good judgment is based on: Intelligence (Obama), Wisdom (Obama) , Character ( Obama and Mccain) not character alone.

Anthony   September 5th, 2008 3:41 pm ET

Okay, John McCain is going to fight for us, WITH WHAT? I haven't seen one word of how he intend to make it happen! Not one word of what actions he's going to take. Let's see, I'll give more tax cuts to the same companies that SAID they would employ Americans, but sent jobs overseas. At least I can go to Obama's website and see substance of who, what, when, where, why and how. I don't mind paying more taxes if I see the country moving forward (Like in the 90's)

Where are the issues...   September 5th, 2008 3:40 pm ET

I think everyone reading this can tell you that "these are tough times" and spell out all the problems that the American people are going through without outlining what should be done…

inuk of the north   September 5th, 2008 3:40 pm ET

Did we all take the short bus to school or what?

Anyone who thinks the president of the United States controls the price of oil and gas, jobs leaving the country, mortgage foreclosures and deliquencies, or the American economy, or world economy, is out of their heads.

There is a WORLD price for oil, not a separate one just for the US.

Jobs WILL leave because they are low-skill, high-pay jobs which are transferable to anywhere on the planet.. And they're really not coming back.

As people traded up, up, up on their homes, did they think that the ridiculous upward spiral of home values would continue in perpetuity?
It's not normal to make 50K and own a $500000 home.

Some politicians would have you believe that somehow you can hermetically seal off the US economy from the world economy. Those are the ones on drugs……………and they shouldn't be trusted.

Economies run in cycles, it's that simple. Prosperity…..recession…….prosperity…….recession……that's how it goes. Anyone over thirty can tell you that. And NO politician can control the economic environment, but they can control the minds of simple voters.

We need Hillary   September 5th, 2008 3:40 pm ET

What does John McCain know about the struggles of working Americans?

He doesn't even remember how many homes he owns, he wears 500 dollar shoes, and he thinks someone has to make 5 million dollars a year to be rich.

On top of that, his convention barely mentioned economic concerns in its first three days.

Out of touch, out of time.

Kelby from Houston, TX   September 5th, 2008 3:40 pm ET

While McCain did indeed mention that times were tough. He was just pointing out that times were tough. He has not provided any plan or idea on how to fix it. He and other repugs have stated their desire for Reaganomics also known as Trickle down economics. the repug econamic plan keeeps the rich rich and the poor can go to hell.
You can not cut taxes and not government service and have a war. The repugs are not good at the economy at all and they fool people into thinking that they are

George Scott   September 5th, 2008 3:39 pm ET

There is no doubt that John McCain is a war hero. His sacrifices are without question, but that does not qualify him for President and I sure in the heck don't want a soccer mom as Vice President. All I heard him talk about last night was about how Obama was going to close a door while he would open it and how Obama was going to raise taxes and he would lower them. Come on sounds like a grade schooler.

Terry, Butte, Mt   September 5th, 2008 3:39 pm ET

"All you ever asked of government is to stand on your side, not in your way."

-Under Bush/McCain, government has got out of the way for the morgage companies and people are losing their homes, while standing by the side the CEO's and stockholders making millions.

-Under Bush/McCain, government has got out of the way of the oil companies and gas prices have risen from $1.78 per gallon to over $4, while standing by the side of the oil companies and the CEO that have made Billions.

-Under Bush/McCain, government has got out of the way of companies shipping jobs overseas and the Americans have lost jobs while standing by the side of the CEO's and big corporations that have made Millions.

-Under Bush/McCain, government has got out of the way of inspecting goods arriving at our shores while the American people have eaten tainted food and children have played with led painted toys, while again standing by the side of CEO's and big corporation that made millions.

-For decades the Republicans and Bush/McCain have worked to have government get out of the way of the environment, while ice caps melt and storms intensified, while standing by the sides of the big polluters to ensure they make millions.

That list goes on and on….

I agree with Obama…. ENOUGH!

anon   September 5th, 2008 3:39 pm ET

Obama, how is raising taxes, raising the minimum wage, FORCING small businesses to pay health care for all workers, and closing down foreign markets going to CREATE jobs?

Obama's big brother socialist meddling in free markets and business will cost even more jobs!

John   September 5th, 2008 3:38 pm ET

John McCain voted 90 percent of the time with Dubya! NO MORE. He wants to give corporations more breaks..No Way, No HOW, NO McCain Palin

Kay   September 5th, 2008 3:38 pm ET

McCain can run from Bush, but can NOT hide - their policies are like twins, their masters are the same. Wasn't he proud to say he voted like Bush more than 90% of time?

Probably not voting...   September 5th, 2008 3:37 pm ET

Wow.. Mrs. Palin is a go-getter! Obama whined that Hillary was picking on him during the campaign and as she said, "If you can't take the heat get out…".

Well, the fires burning and this Jr. Senator is going to get a taste of real politics. He's asking for Hillary's help but I recall that he didn't need her. That was his first major mistake - not taking Hillary as VP. He'll now pay for his arrogance and cost the dems the White House once again when we should have walked in there after 8 years of Bush.

Go team… :(

He's great at speeches but terrible with confrontation. Bill Riley had him squirming in his chair. If he that way with Bill, what about facing the leaders of this world? He is NOT ready…

patrick   September 5th, 2008 3:37 pm ET

free sarah palin

Beverly, NYC   September 5th, 2008 3:36 pm ET

From which of your 7 home will you be standing at my side. People out of work and going through foreclosures need a plan, how do you and the pitbull in lipstick PLAN to fight for the future? I guess if you can't bomb it you have no answers.

Joe   September 5th, 2008 3:36 pm ET

How is McCain running a campaign on change when he's voted with Bush 90% of the time and is quoted saying he thinks Bush is a good President?

Bruce   September 5th, 2008 3:36 pm ET

McCain there is no way to get the smell of the BUSH Administration off, and the perfume of a PRETY WOMAN will not make it smell any better. Obama has clearly stated, without the negitive smear attacks you seem to thrive on, how he plans to grow jobs by seeking new renewalbe energy. All I have heard from McCain and Palin is repeated lies thta have been proven to be lies but repeating a lie does not make it truer only show how stupid the person is that repeats it.

BJ   September 5th, 2008 3:36 pm ET

I don't want anybody to stand by my our side while we sink and they wave, I want someone who will get out there and change things.

After all of the falsehoods I can see McCain-Palin doing that. They don't want there to be any government help.

Peter of Oregon   September 5th, 2008 3:35 pm ET

My friends, McCain's speech lacked substance.

Let me give you some REAL straight talk. His call for unity and stepping across the isle was drowned out by the devisive speeches of everyone else in his campaign including his VP. We heard about his biography tonight as we did the first 2 nights. We heard nothing of how his policies would improve American's lives.

JC   September 5th, 2008 3:35 pm ET

Is this all McCain can talk about is "fight, fight, fight"…I'm a little tired (and scared) of him always referring to "fighting"….Is that what having such a long military history will do? That's what scares me about McCain his attitude to ALWAYS WANT TO FIGHT! He is a very honorable man having lived served our country and lived through what he did, but enough already! You're not telling me what your "specific" plans are to turn this economy around. I need more than Rhetoric (isn't that what you said about Obama??)

S. Boatman   September 5th, 2008 3:35 pm ET

Mccain Does Not Understand The Economy So How Can He Fix It?

Concern in Ohio   September 5th, 2008 3:35 pm ET

I think the last Democratic President proved to be sound on the economy! Read the issues carefully voters,…it time for a change,…then maybe common americans will have some "change" to spend on themselves and not on rising gas/food/and energy costs!

Taxes
McCain: Pledged not to raise taxes, then equivocated, saying nothing can be ruled out in negotiating compromises to keep Social Security solvent. Twice opposed Bush's tax cuts, at first because he said they were tilted to the wealthiest and again because of the unknown costs of Iraq war. Now says those tax cuts, expiring in 2010, should be permanent. Proposes cutting corporate tax rate to 25 percent. Promises balance budget in first term, says that is unlikely in his first year.
Obama: Raise income taxes on wealthiest and their capital gains and dividends taxes. Raise corporate taxes. $80 billion in tax breaks mainly for poor workers and elderly, including tripling Earned Income Tax Credit for minimum-wage workers and higher credit for larger families. Eliminate tax-filing requirement for older workers making under $50,000. A mortgage-interest credit could be used by lower-income homeowners who do not take the mortgage-interest deduction because they do not itemize their taxes.

Mike from St. Louis   September 5th, 2008 3:35 pm ET

How is giving big business more tax breaks fighting for my future as McCain says. He wants to extend the tax cuts of Bush and I guess he still doesn't see the end result of that. Companies are abusing the tax credits and still shipping those jobs overseas. It was those same tax cuts for the wealthy that they thought would eventually trickle down to the common folks that have us at a 5 year high on unemployment. Mccain stated last night he would reach out to anyone who was willing to fight and help him guide this country in the right direction…is that crossing the party aisle or not really knowing what the hell is going on and hoping someone will help him run this government that he has NO specific plan for???

Think about this america!

Ian   September 5th, 2008 3:34 pm ET

Stop the Obama lies!

Obama continues his smear campaign in suggesting that McCain has voted with Bush 90% of the time.

Aside from the fact that Bush doesn’t even vote, here is the real truth:

According to the National Journal, the authority on Congressional vote ratings, McCain voted with his party 59.7% of the time during the 8 years of the Bush administration. That means over 40% of the time, McCain voted against his own party.

Obama, on the other hand, in his brief 3 years in Congress has voted with his party 88% of the time and has become progressively more liberal; reaching a high of 95.5% in 2007. That means that Obama has only disagreed with the liberal party line 12% of the time overall and only 0.5% of the time in the past year.

Apparently, Obama doesn’t even know what the other side of the aisle looks like, yet he claims to be able to reach across it and become the candidate of reform and unity.

McCain has repeatedly shown the ability to work with Democrats and bring an end to partisan bickering.

With his vote rating of 95.5% making him the MOST LIBERAL Senate Democrat in 2007, Obama has shown nothing but extreme partisanship and elitism.

Don’t buy into the Obama lies America!

McCain is no Bush, and his record proves it.

If anyone is “more of the same,” it’s Obama; more partisanship, more senseless fighting, and more failures in Washington.

Ready For Change   September 5th, 2008 3:34 pm ET

The democrats have been in control of congress for almost three years now, I have not seen any help from them either.

cherrystrawberry   September 5th, 2008 3:34 pm ET

"He added, "All you ever asked of government is to stand on your side, not in your way. And that's what I intend to do. Stand on your side and fight for your future."

but McFrankenstein forgot to say "and give big corps and rich people more tax breaks and loop holes in hope that they will create minimum paying jobs for all you peasant"

btw. Palin in unimpressive to this woman

Obama/Biden 08

Working man for McCain   September 5th, 2008 3:34 pm ET

Hey maybe if we raise corporate taxes they might hire tons new people! What states have the highest unemployment? States that are heavy with unions and states that have high taxes, coincidence???

Kasim   September 5th, 2008 3:33 pm ET

McCain is trying to trick the American people,he mention the word change,reform etc many times in his speech today. He want the American people to believe that he is different kind of republicans.he is saying that just to win election,Americans will not be fool by what he is saying, they know if he win it gona be business as usual the same mosquitos.No matter how far he is trying to distance himself from bush,McCain is Mcbush he is still a member of the same mosquitos ruining white house for eight years and he is trying to get them another four years.WATCH OUT MY FRIENDS!!.

Mike - Texas   September 5th, 2008 3:32 pm ET

And what has the democratically led do nothing congress done to help with our economic woes?????

ABSOLUTELY NOTHING!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

The economy only started going into the tank AFTER the democrats took over congress. Six months before that, the economy had the highest approval rating in nealy 40 years.

Economy GOOD before democratic takeover of congress.

Ecomony BAD after democratic takeover of congress.

I believe it is time to get the democrats out of congress before they take us into a depression.

JB   September 5th, 2008 3:32 pm ET

What BS!!!

McCain has no clue what to do and has never offered a plan!

Hillary, now Obama   September 5th, 2008 3:32 pm ET

McGramps, "I don't know much about the economy"

And it shows John, it shows.

Rottweillers Eat Pit Bulls   September 5th, 2008 3:32 pm ET

MCCain thinks the economy is secondary or tiertiary to WAR.

He fails to realize that national security will be threatened more by TRADE DEFICITS than enemy troops.

McCain simply regurjitates, low taxes creat jobs from the prior administration (which by the way IS NOT TRUE). McCain has no idea why he is saying this and has no ORIGINAL though on what to do to create Jobs.

Jobs are created when businesses are formed. Business are formed to fill an need. Cutting taxes has ZERO to do with whether a need exists or not.

Morals and Values for sale!   September 5th, 2008 3:32 pm ET

McCain, that line is getting OLD. Just like you. I wa