September 9, 2008
Posted: 12:41 PM ET

From
President Bush announced that he plans to withdraw 8,000 U.S. troops from Iraq by February, 2009 .
President Bush announced that he plans to withdraw 8,000 U.S. troops from Iraq by February, 2009 .

RIVERSIDE, Ohio (CNN) – Senator Barack Obama said Tuesday the Bush administration’s announcement it was bringing some U.S. troops home fell short, calling it a “modest” step that indicated no real change in policy.

“At this point what it appears is the next president will inherit a status quo that is still unstable, Obama told reporters at a high school outside Dayton. “And what’s going to be required is a comprehensive strategy, and that’s what I’ve been offering for the last two years.

“We should have a comprehensive strategy for bringing this war to a close and not what we heard from president today, which is essentially some tinkering around the edges and kicking the can down the road to the next president.”

Obama gave lukewarm praise to the president’s announcement that more U.S. troops will be sent to Afghanistan, something the Democratic Party’s presidential nominee routinely calls for in his stump speech.

“I am glad that the President is moving in the direction of the policy that I have advocated for years. But the most substantial increase will come when an additional Army brigade is deployed five months from now – in February, after the President has left office. His plan comes up short – it is not enough troops, and not enough resources, with not enough urgency,” he said.

The Democratic nominee also continued his regular practice of linking John McCain with President Bush on foreign policy.

“Last week, we heard a lot of tough talk in St. Paul, but we didn’t hear much about the Bush-McCain record,” he said. “Because seven years after 9/11, we are still fighting a war without end in Iraq and we still haven’t taken out the terrorists responsible for 9/11. That’s where George Bush and John McCain’s judgment has gotten us."

Filed under: Barack Obama • Iraq Troop Withdrawal


Change Is Coming!   September 9th, 2008 2:51 pm ET

Remaining Obama Supporters:

Change your mind. Change your vote.
Change We Can Believe In.

Farrell, Houston, Tx   September 9th, 2008 2:51 pm ET

McCain and Palin are asking Americans to take a ride on "The Bridge to Nowhere". Isn't that what we've been on for the past 8 years?

Patrick Henry, Fort Myers   September 9th, 2008 2:50 pm ET

His idea of open government would likely include distribution of National Security Council meeting minutes!!

What ignorant people we are to add credence to Obama's absurd comments. There are a thousand valid reasons to not publish a withdrawel plan–so that our enemies know our time-line. The current administrations appears to be ahead of schedule–even without Obama there to oversee it…my…my..

Another example of his supreme ignorance of defense strategy.

ss   September 9th, 2008 2:50 pm ET

That's right Barack stay on course. We got your back

L.A.   September 9th, 2008 2:49 pm ET

Some is better than none. I do understand where Obama is coming from, but on the same token that's 8,000 troops that won't be in harms way. We'll get the rest of them out, Obama, when you're president.

Cathy   September 9th, 2008 2:49 pm ET

Bush is not fooling anyone. He is making this modest drawdown to try to help McSame and his pit bull in lickstick win the election. I agree with Obama. It is definitely not enough and their game will not work.

dittohead with forty names   September 9th, 2008 2:48 pm ET

Im so clever.I get all my talking points from the man with the golden microphone,my hero and god,Rush Limbaugh.

Bob Indianapolis, IN   September 9th, 2008 2:48 pm ET

Do you clowns want a democracy of a theocracy? Frankly, a lot of people are getting tired of having the country's agenda hijacked by the God Squad!

J J   September 9th, 2008 2:48 pm ET

I thought that Barack wanted all the troops out in 16 months. Amazing how his position has changed since he has started running. He doesnt have a clue.

obama for potus!!! si se puede!!!   September 9th, 2008 2:47 pm ET

Republicans Hate America September 9th, 2008 1:08 pm ET

I want to know why this is not surrender when the republicans draw troops down. Obama once again is correct as always. you inbreeds stay with McPhony and Gidget i will vote for a real leader.

Its not a surrender because of course the conditions are allowing the troops to leave. Obama has been saying withdraw since the war started, because his base is anti war(good), and he didnt have achoice in the matter. Just because he was against this war doesnt mean he was right to withdraw everyone then. BTW a pro war VP is just a heartbeat away on your ticket as well.

Tell It Like It Is   September 9th, 2008 2:47 pm ET

I miss Hillary Clinton. She gave Obama some of his best talking points and political phrases.

She actually kept a forum of issues and ideas in the present tense.

But you can't blame her for slippin into the background.
After all why would she want to 'carry water' for Obama/ Biden.

"Yes, Hill, carry that water and if you're lucky we'll let you iron our shirts. "

USMC   September 9th, 2008 2:45 pm ET

Some of you Obama people are painfully stupid, and the McCain followers aren't much better. It's not that I support either party right now, the choice to me is not clear, but what is clear is that the Independents such as myself will decide this election, not the party faithfulls. All of the foolish degrading names you give to the candidates is beginning to get on my nerves, it's all the same, and it's all worse than the rhetoric we keep hearing from the candidates. No wonder the choice isn't clear.

John in Ohio   September 9th, 2008 2:45 pm ET

It's not a troop drawdown… Bush is just reducing the troops that were there for the surge.

Vegas Barbie for Obama   September 9th, 2008 2:45 pm ET

Why should he be anything more THAN lukewarm? After all, the Bush admin/Repubs have only STARTED this idea of a "drawdown" or troop reduction, SINCE future POTUS Obama said he will do as much once he takes office…remember his "be as careful getting out as we were careless getting in" statement? GWB is trying to start that process to make things look better for McCain and his gun-totin' book banning VP running mate. Looking at GWB in the waning days of his administration and the McCain campaign, it seems that all they can DO now is steal Obama's ideas and concepts!
OBAMA/BIDEN '08 & '12–YES WE CAN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Breck   September 9th, 2008 2:44 pm ET

I find it hilarious you ReDUMBlican scumbags still think Palin has more experience than Obama since you can't be troubled to actually look at their records, and that you still refuse to admit Obama was right all along about Iraq.

Sandy   September 9th, 2008 2:42 pm ET

He should be COLD, this war was nonsence to begin with. Now it's left up to Republican and Democratic peeps to answer for Bush's mistakes.

sue   September 9th, 2008 2:41 pm ET

To Bush is Sarah Palin in Lipstick:

Why we went to war in Iraq?

Answer: Cheney = Haliburtan and Haliburton = oil and oil = money

S.B. Stein E.B. NJ   September 9th, 2008 2:41 pm ET

Bush never seemed to understand that it took the founding fathers a while to get everything settled, and they were working themselves to get a new government. It should have occured to someone in the Bush administration and their friends that it would take quite a while for Iraq and Afghanistan to be put back together.

Doing one at a time would have been better. Maybe if we had not have the conflict in Iraq, oil prices might not have jumped so much. We could have talked to Iran about them securing their side of the Afghan boarder.

pa.joe   September 9th, 2008 2:40 pm ET

The Bush administration invaded the sovereign nation of Iraq using faulty intelligence to justify their ulterior motives. Over the last 6 years they have changed the rational for going to war many times. First it was Iraq had WMDs then it was to topple Sudan Hussein, then it was to spread democracy. Now it’s the front against terrorism. None of these are the real reason we went to war. All of the trumped up intell and phony reasons for war were a ruse the Bush administration used to get American military into Iraq to protect our oil interests in the region. Imagine if we had invested all those billions of dollars in protecting our borders and developing alternative energy sources. We would be a safer, more energy independent, and more respected nation. But alas we are mired in war and dangerously dependent on oil from foreigners who hate us. The Bush administration failures most be recognized if we are ever to get past them.

Kayla   September 9th, 2008 2:38 pm ET

What's lukewarm is Bush's attempt to save face. Can't fool us…Americans see this as a sorry attempt to save the Republicans. How interesting is the timing that in the midst of a campaign, Bush finally talks about sending troops home.

Amber in AZ   September 9th, 2008 2:38 pm ET

Oh yeah, and this is ridiculous about Palin being sheilded from the media. How is she supposed to stare down Putin who has been in the KGB since he was 22 if she cant take on Campbell Brown? I wouldn't be suprised if she tries to cancel the VP debate. Show her no mercy Joe like this administration has shown the Iraqi people no mercy.

Splurge   September 9th, 2008 2:36 pm ET

Sounds like Obama is worried about Bush stealing his withdrawal thunder. lol Can't even bring himself all this campaign to admit the surged worked and then when he was baited into doing so he claimed that he had said so all along. If his ego is causing this much interefernce in his campaign what will it cost us if he's president?

Mike, TX   September 9th, 2008 2:35 pm ET

Obama needs increased US casualties in Iraq to keep him relevant. The dems are actively cheering for the US to be defeated. It is obvious to everyone.

FreeNLovIt   September 9th, 2008 2:33 pm ET

Hillary we LOVE you!!

Michael   September 9th, 2008 2:33 pm ET

Of course, the Holy Redeemer is lukewarm about what President Bush has announced. The Way has difficulty crediting anyone who is not a liberal democrat with anything, and trying to get him to admit to plain old fallibility is impossible. For someone who stutters and stammers like a 13-year-old he is awfully supercilious.

FreeNLovIt   September 9th, 2008 2:33 pm ET

We need change. We cant go on this way with the Republiconomic. This fighting Machine is battery-operated by the Democrat.

Without the Democrats, there will be no National Security.

Remember, the Clintons gave us the Internet. These two parties are fused at the hips. They must learn to let go and the other one LEAD when the time is right. This IS the right time to change guards.

James-Canadian   September 9th, 2008 2:31 pm ET

I don’t understand why US attacked Iraq to begin with when Bin Laden is in Afghanistan.

Bin Laden was the main man who killed thousands of Americans on 9/11 and yet Bush went to Iraq instead of finished the job goes after Bin Laden and get rid of him once and for all.

In the end, not only over 3,000 life has been loss on 9/11 Bush added another 4,000 life of young men and women solders to top the list.

New today, American is over 400 Billion in the whole, economy sliding downward,

After billion of dollars spent trying to win the war in Iraq, now Bush is going to spend even more in Afghanistan,

Mary   September 9th, 2008 2:31 pm ET

Face it people, the Republicans will do it again, Obama does not have the experience that John and Sarah do!

The other night I was watching a show and it was about bin laden, oops I mean Obama, I got my b's mixed up! It was talking of Obama's growing years and had a small segment about his dad! His dad's gravestone read " Barack Hussein Obama" I guess there's another small item we didn't know about! I wonder if the so called cantidate is a junior and related to Sadam! You never know! He wasn't even born here, yet he wants to be president, he will never make it!

Give it up obama bin laden

NoDumbA$$ Cheesehead, WI   September 9th, 2008 2:31 pm ET

Bush lied to us to send troops to Iraq and on top of that it was a botched job.
Colin Powell told Bush if you break Iraq you own it and he was immediately sidelined. He asked Bush what he’ll do with 27 million Iraqis after Saddam is gone and there was no foresight there.

“The surge”
Imagine you’re on a bus that’s low in gas and you deliberately drive it into the ditch. Spin the wheels for a while and dig yourself into a rut. After a few more spins you run out of gas. Manage to get more gas and you spin the wheels some and get out of the 1st rut but you’re still in the ditch and call the out of a rut move a victory.

4Obama2   September 9th, 2008 2:30 pm ET

Rob Kole,

Uhhhh Duhhh, when your loved ones come home they will be shipped over to Afghanistan where it is more dangerous right now than in Iraq because Bush/McBush were such failures in not finishing the job there before they went off half cocked to fight in Iraq!!!!
Get your facts straight and stop being led by the nose. Thankfully most of the comments here are coming from educated people who can use their own brains to figure out what is best for the US and the rest of the world!!!

B. Obama, Chicago, Illinois   September 9th, 2008 2:29 pm ET

PRESENT!!!!!!

Helene   September 9th, 2008 2:28 pm ET

Iraq is a MESS and Bush and his gangs (including McSame) are fully responsible. Shame !

Republican Voting for Obama   September 9th, 2008 2:28 pm ET

'Maverick' is the call name McCain gave to himself. It really doesn't refer to anything specific, but it was better than his second choice – 'Sparky'.

Carl Justus   September 9th, 2008 2:27 pm ET

Bush will keep the troops in Iraq to try to help McCain win the presidency. If he had pulled them out before his term is up then, the democrats would have said he was finally seeing the light and adopting their plan.

Bush does not care about the damage it will cause to American troops or the national REPUBLICAN DEBT WHICH IS 9.7 BILLION AND RISING AT THE RATE OF 1.93 BILLION DOLLARS EACH DAY SINCE 2007.

Bush will keep sending the troops into harms way, even though he would not finish is commitment to the air national guard. He is an advocate of all others to serve and even extend their duty, but would not even finish his initial commitment.

Ian   September 9th, 2008 2:26 pm ET

"Tell the husbands, wives, sons and daughters who are getting their loved ones back safe and sound it a "modest step"."

Perhaps you should looking into a course in reading apprehension. The troops are being re-deployed.

brenda   September 9th, 2008 2:26 pm ET

The U.S. is so divided over this election- the republicans and the democrats-they almost seem to hate each other. A country divided as we are-can never be a strong nation!! We have become a bunch of sheep- without a single original thought unless the news media tells us how to think, who to vote for. This election has really opened my eyes. No matter who wins in November, there will be a division that will not be easily healed. We really should be paying attention to the issues, despite the Republicans cry that this election is about personalities. If we don't pay attention to the issues then we deserve everything that will happen to us.
The US deficit has reached new heights and all anyone can talk about is the personalities running for the most important job in the world. Americans are too easily deceived and distracted by things of no importance. They care about what the news tells us to worry about. I don't care about the bridge to nowhere and who spends more on earmarks. The republicans are throwing that out as distractions so that we won't ask the tough questions. I don't know about you, but I care about health care and I care about the education of our children. Which candidate will most help you and your life struggles? If you think McCain is your guy, let me ask this? What, exactly, do you think he will change that he hasn't tried to change already?

CM   September 9th, 2008 2:25 pm ET

Some of you guys are really stupid.

What goal in iraq? WMDs? Are we gonna plan some there now? It was a senseless war that is now a election issue and a distraction from the real goal. Catch Osama Bin Laden and bring him and his followers to justice.

The GOP inherited a country in budgetary surplus and now we're in our worst deficit and still spending 10B a month to support troops that have no right being there. Flood Afghanistan with those same troops and lets go after the real reason we're at war.

Some of you republicans have no foresight. No wonder the educated vote is for Obama. It seems education is a hindrance in this election.

REPUBLICANS FULL OF SH_T!!! Post This!!!   September 9th, 2008 2:25 pm ET

ONCE AGAIN OBAMA IS RIGHT!!!

HE'S RUNNING THE WHITE HOUSE FROM HIS ELECTION CAMPAIGN!

Ron L   September 9th, 2008 2:25 pm ET

It is hard to get exciting about this. It is sort of like your kid comes in the house and breaks your MOST prized possession and then shows you how good of a job they did in cleaning it up. Like, you are suppose to forget the item was broken. It would not work in this example, and it surely does not work for this mess of a war our President has gotten us into.

What Happened To America?   September 9th, 2008 2:24 pm ET

I think America has just answered the question as to how Bush got re-elected. The world thinks Americans are stupid for voting for a woman who can't even be allowed to speak to the press. This is communism.

I don't have a horse in your race, but you guys are fools.

Amber in AZ   September 9th, 2008 2:24 pm ET

Make no mistake people… when these other countries have had enough…..they will get together…….ignore the UN just like we did……..cross the ocean…….and bomb YOUR HOUSE. Then they will report on their news how THEIR war is going. Because the enemy of my enemy is my friend. Can anyone say Iran?

Mikey   September 9th, 2008 2:23 pm ET

Kathryn, Nevada September 9th, 2008 1:53 pm ET
He only used "comprehensive strategy" after he beat Hillary! Prior to that, he continually said, "Imediate Withdraw".
_____________________________________________
Not true. In the first debate over a year ago he said "We must be as careful getting out of Iraq as we were careless getting in." Having a 16 month timetable does not mean you must mindlessly follow it, but if you do not start, you will never get there.

While the surge has reduced violence in Iraq, it remains to be seen if we achieve our original goals when we started this whole mess of capturing Osama bin Laden, being welcomed as liberators, instituting a friendly, democratic government, and the unstated securring a reliable supply of oil to combat OPECs monopoly power.

4,200 American lives, 100,000 Iraqi lives, and $500 billion dollars!

Then again, we may acieve much less and declare victory anyway. I already hear people saying we have "won", which is still very premature, although not nearly as bad as Bush's "Mission Accomplished".

Peter (CA)   September 9th, 2008 2:23 pm ET

And seriously…enough with the inane conspiracy theories about Muslims, terrorists, and Marxists.

McCain/Palin are the status quo. The only change they know about is what will be left in your pocket after they bankrupt this country. Look at the facts….the deficit keeps increasing because we are paying billions and billions for Iraq and Bush (and McCain) continues to insist lower taxes will pay for everything.

Moon Maiden from Lake Michigan   September 9th, 2008 2:23 pm ET

OBAMA IS RIGHT AND WHAT DO YOU OR WHEN DID YOU CARE MR. BUSH

B. Obama, Chicago, Illinois   September 9th, 2008 2:23 pm ET

Have I fooled the American people ino thinking Hillary's plan was mine all along yet?

CNNman   September 9th, 2008 2:22 pm ET

The real reason we are able to draw-down troops is because of the surge that has worked to make Iraq more secure. Mr. Obama was against the Surge which shows a complete lack of vision. Any way, politics aside, I am glad that it has worked for the better of our country and that region.

Charlie   September 9th, 2008 2:21 pm ET

Wow the smartest thing Bush has done so far, listening to the Obama / Biden party, bring our troops home!

Just Wondering   September 9th, 2008 2:21 pm ET

I'd like for Obama and Biden to explain their hypocrisy in attacking Palin over the Bridge To Nowhere when they both voted in favor of it. And I would like them to explain why they voted against an amendment that would have redirected the money from the BTN to the victims of Hurricane Katrina.

This Is A Country, Not High School   September 9th, 2008 2:20 pm ET

If this election has taught me one thing, it taught me that Americans aren't that bright. When I want my kindergarten kids to stop whining, I change their focus. That's exactly what McCain did–and it worked. Whoever thought the country would be taken over by big hair and lipstick. Wow.

Apparently Elvis has returned to the building.

Obama/Biden 08

B. Obama, Chicago, Illinois   September 9th, 2008 2:20 pm ET

Hmmm….will the Senate be ok with me voting "lukewarm" instead of "present"?

Can I veto bills if I were to win on the basis of being "lukewarm" on them?

Is being "lukewarm" on a regime that threatens American security sufficient basis on which to request a delaration of war from Congress?

Rich in Indy   September 9th, 2008 2:20 pm ET

I'll bet that General Patraeus is second guessing the President's decision since Obama has made his experienced opinion known.

obamaton   September 9th, 2008 2:17 pm ET

Mr. Bush: Win then Leave.
Mr. Obama: Just Leave!

Thomas NY, NY   September 9th, 2008 2:17 pm ET

Is being "lukewarm" on something the same as being "present" when your constituency expects you to vote on legislation, Senator Obama?

Well, is it?

jean from orlando   September 9th, 2008 2:17 pm ET

To all you Obama or Democrat haters – don't you find it a bit ironic that alll the things that Obama has been advocating for years now (bringing the troops home – talking to our enemies) is exactly what the bush and mccain people are trying to accomplish now. Imagine if this man was in office years ago. Please we made a mistake by voting for bush not once but twice – so if Mcain wins office – anyone that voted for him deserves the pain and suffering they will see in the pockets – please do your research before the election and vote for real change

Obama/Biden

Mike - Texas   September 9th, 2008 2:17 pm ET

And the Iraqi war "rug" is slowly but surely being pulled out frum underneath the feet of Obama.

The SURGE worked.
The Iraqis are taking ove more responsibility.
The TROOPS are starting to come home.

Pretty soon, Nobama won't have a foot left to stand on.

David   September 9th, 2008 2:16 pm ET

Another note on Obama and why no change is coming (especially with war-monger Joe Biden as his running mate, he has no plans to stop in Iraq. Get it through your heads. His main foreign policy advisor is the war monger, Zbigniew Brzezinski. Enough said right there. So Obama marches to the beat of the same drum as McCain, that of the elites and the CFR, Bilderberg and Trilaterel. No change. The two party system is a shm and a cover.

He's the changiest!   September 9th, 2008 2:16 pm ET

Was Sen. Obama right when he said that he was uncertain of how he would have voted on the Iraq War authorization?

crashnbrn53   September 9th, 2008 2:16 pm ET

For those who insist that Palin has more experience than Obama, do you hear yourselves, OMG! Obama has way more education. Just as well, what has been pumped into your heads by the republicans is obviously resignating, so proud to have so many of you here, guess if McCain gets in there, I will have overtime with extra case loads. Oh and eds, you are right, I am a social worker, and comunity organizer is a social work job, Bravo Obama,! working from the community up.

PA Independent   September 9th, 2008 2:16 pm ET

Folks, I would be happy to listen to anybody's argument about Obama leading us to Marxism, if the people who spout that nonsense could only spell the word or identify what it means. Talk about an argument for revamping American public education!

Peter (CA)   September 9th, 2008 2:16 pm ET

I keeping hear the right wingers say "The surge worked." How? By putting more troops on the ground to go against the insurgents?
Great. So, what happens when the surge is done? Do we need to keep the numbers ratcheted up in Iraq? Where are we supposed to get these troops while at the same time fixing all the screw-ups the administration has made in Afghanistan?

This is all some sort of Republican gimmick to make it look better for McCain. Are you kidding me? There are not enough troops to do both jobs well. Something has to happen. The Iraqis have to step up. This is what Obama has been talking about for months. He is the rational, thinking one in this debate. So, check out the facts before foaming at the mouth.

Jean   September 9th, 2008 2:15 pm ET

Is Obama lukewarm? Looking at the facts of the situation.
He praised the troops and thier commandors for jobs well done.
Listening to the intire press conference to me he said, the large part of the troops will still be there after the next president is elected.

What I noticed more than anything else was reporters did not ask questions about troops but Sarah Palin,again missing the main issue of the war.

A lot of the confusion is media driven, we need to explore the important issues. WE NEED INVESTIGATIVE REPORTING INSTEAD OF WHAT WE ARE GETTING.

Sarah   September 9th, 2008 2:15 pm ET

George Snotpolus is a zero, and he prove that once again when he interviewed Barack. He seems to be jealous or something because he doesn't allow Barack to finish his answer.

The man is an opportunist and that's why he worked for Clinton. He doesnt' know what the word "is" is either.

Obama/Biden 08

j.williams, san diego   September 9th, 2008 2:14 pm ET

obama is playing the neville chamberlain foreign policy plan…lack of experience is the cause.

Steve, Madison WI   September 9th, 2008 2:14 pm ET

Democrats vote on issues and facts – Republicans on emotions. Emotions do not take research, intellect or effort.

Democrats use reasoned logic while Republicans "shoot from the hip". Again, it is easier to use words like "liberty" and "freedom" and "feel patriotic" than it is to actually try to change the world for the better.

It is no wonder the US is in such bad shape after 8 years of Republicans.

Hey CNN, can we have a debate rather than just a "pep rally"

Thomas NY, NY   September 9th, 2008 2:13 pm ET

Poor Obama….so wrong….again.

I'm actually stunned that CNN posted this story, to be completely honest. Sadly, they won't have the objectivity to post this comment, though.

Surge Did Nothing   September 9th, 2008 2:13 pm ET

What good is the surge if our manpower and tax dollars are still going to a country who had billions of dollars in a surplus? Obama was right, the surge was like setting your house on fire, putting the fire out with water, and praising the water.

McCain realizes when he's wrong, change the subject. Nevermind that the problem still exist.

McCain doesn't realize we're smarter than 5th graders.

Obama/Biden 08

JDS   September 9th, 2008 2:13 pm ET

All of you Obama supporters are the one's that are clueless. Bush is doing this because General Patreus suggested the move. Obama is a liar, has no experience and is the one that stutters when put on the spot. Such hatred on this blog. The difference between Democrats and Republicans:

Democrats want everything for free, and want the government to take care of the failing lives.

Republicans want nothing for free, and hold the values that this great country was founded on.

Get a life, and stop being disrespectful to the president that has gotten us through hard times. You are being discourteous to our president and military, and you say that Republicans are the ones that hate america. HAAAAAAA!!!! MCCAIN/PALIN 08!

DEAD ON Moderate and Balanced!

Edith   September 9th, 2008 2:12 pm ET

CNN Bush, McCain,and Palin take the L out = Pain they are playing the news media like a fiddle. Suddendly Bush will withdraw troops, next he will find or kill Osama bin Laden the news needs to point out the game playing by the Republicans and lies. Please people don't be fooled by the excitment it want run this country best. You cannot trust republicans to cloean up the mess.

me in md   September 9th, 2008 2:12 pm ET

Bush stole Obama's plan and is trying to use it to score points with the idiots that don't know any better! Keep believing the lies of Bush-McCain/Palin – this will be this country's downfall.

Amber in AZ   September 9th, 2008 2:11 pm ET

This is incredible. It's the hoodwinking of America once again. The Rebuplican Party has capitalized on American's love of America and made it seem unpatriotic to not want this war. We need to get out of Iraq and fast. Iraqis never asked us to come into their country and free them from Sadam. It has been proven that the information used to get us to war was a blatant lie. It's no longer a war on terror; it's a war on the Iraqi people. 230,000 civilians have died already.

To quote my favorite author right now,
"Freedom isn't something you dispense like a Happy Meal. It has to be wanted by those oppressed- then they have to fight for it themselves. Just like we did in 1776, Just like the French did a few years later, Just like Nelson Mandela did. Just like the Italians after Mussolini.

The Iraquis as we see from their daily bombings and killings clearly had it in them to wreak havoc on Saddam- but didn't. That was their choice.

Since 2000, the life expectancy of Iraqi males has gone down from 65 years to 48 years. If the Iraqis had wanted Saddam gone….he would have been gone. People desperate to get free will stop at no lengths to be free.' Michael Moore

So the reason American's are hated all over the planet is because we elect presidents who use lies to get into office and then lies to go to war. No body seems to notice that our foreign policy pisses the rest of the planet off. That's what 9/11 was really all about. It was a big BUTT OUT AMERICA. And since our country seems so eager to go to war when it's in other countries. Maybe they need to bring it to our doorsteps to show how horrible, ugly, and wrong war really is. At least no body ever DIED when Clinton lied!

Dennis   September 9th, 2008 2:11 pm ET

There are two kinds of democrats:
1-dumb
2.-dumber
Which one are you?
The dems (once again) put up a candidate who is totally imept. Just to remind you, MCGOVERN, MONDALE, DUKAKIS. Need I go on?

bridgette   September 9th, 2008 2:10 pm ET

What strategy has McCain put forward. I think if the American people fall for this Karl Rove Republican trick then you will get what you deserve. You have already seen what Karl Rove will do for America. It was he and Cheney who ran this country and made all the decisions. So if you are stupid enough to vote for it again then you deal with what you have to deal with.

Change, Change, Change   September 9th, 2008 2:10 pm ET

Bush: The Village Idiot Speaks Again.

Tick tock already…..

Obama/Biden 08

David   September 9th, 2008 2:09 pm ET

He's waiting to see which position he takes will garner more votes. After all, he critisizes McCain for voting for the Bush policies and being four more years of Bush when in reality he voted for the Bush policies more than McCain (Obama's big lie). Check the facts of those bills that Bush signed into law (the true measure) from 2006 to present:

1. H.R. 1815, the "National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2006
2. H.R. 972, the "Trafficking Victims Protection Reauthorization Act of 2005″
3. S. 1932, the "Deficit Reduction Act of 2005″
4. H.R. 3199, the "USA PATRIOT Improvement and Reauthorization Act of 2005″ (P.L. 109-177) and S. 2271, the "USA PATRIOT Act Additional Reauthorizing Amendments Act of 2006″ (P.L. 109-178)
5 S. 1869, the Coastal Barrier Resources Reauthorization Act of 2005
6. H.R. 4939, the Emergency Supplemental Appropriations Act for Defense, the Global War on Terror, and Hurricane Recovery, 2006
7. H.R. 889, the Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation Act of 2006
8. H.R. 42, the Freedom to Display the American Flag Act of 2005
9. H.R. 4, the Pension Protection Act of 2006
10. H.R. 5631, the Department of Defense Appropriations Act, 2007
11. H.R. 5441, the Department of Homeland Security Appropriations Act, 2007
12. S. 56, the Rio Grande Natural Area Act
13. S. 203, the National Heritage Areas Act of 2006
14. H.R. 4954, the Security and Accountability for Every Port Act of 2006
15. H.R. 233, the Northern California Coastal Wild Heritage Wilderness Act
16. H.R. 5122, the John Warner National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2007
17. H.R. 5682, the "Henry J. Hyde United States-India Peaceful Atomic Energy Cooperation Act of 2006″
18. S. 843, the Combating Autism Act of 2006
19. H.R. 6111, the Tax Relief and Health Care Act of 2006
20. H.R. 6407, the Postal Accountability and Enhancement Act
21. H.R. 5076, the National Transportation Safety Board Reauthorization Act of 2006
22. S. 2370, the Palestinian Anti-Terrorism Act of 2006
23. H.R. 6344, the Office of National Drug Control Policy Reauthorization Act of 2006
24. H.R. 5946, the "Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Reauthorization Act of 2006″
25. H.R. 1, the "Implementing Recommendations of the 9/11 Commission Act of 2007″
26. H.R. 2272, the "America Creating Opportunities to Meaningfully Promote Excellence in Technology, Education, and Science Act"
27. S. 1, the "Honest Leadership and Open Government Act of 2007″
28. H.R. 3222, the "Department of Defense Appropriations Act, 2008″
29. H.R. 1429 the "Improving Head Start for School Readiness Act of 2007″
30. H.R. 2764, the "Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2008″
31. S. 2271, the "Sudan Accountability and Divestment Act of 2007″
32. H.R. 4986, the "National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2008″

Barack Obama voted “Yes” to TWENTY-SIX of these bills. He voted “No” to ONE!!! He did not cast a vote for FIVE of them. If we do not count the bills that did not vote for that yields a 96.3% of voting with Bush. Even counting the bills he did not cast a vote, we come up with 83.8%. Just comparing “yes” against the total, comes to 81.3%.

Now for John McCain:

McCain voted “Yes” to TWENTY-FIVE of these bills. He also voted “No” to ONE. He didn’t cast a vote for SIX of them. Not counting the bills he didn’t cast a vote, we get a 96.2%. If we count the “no votes,” we get an 80.6%. When comparing “yes” versus the total, we get a 78.1%.

thanks for lying to us Mr. Change Obama.

Lisa   September 9th, 2008 2:09 pm ET

Anybody with some common since " knows" that when the circumstances changes then all else change.. that just like going to the store.. if the police have the street blocked off you have to take another route…. I see why Bush is in office… all the people that vote for him. mccain and palin are just as stupid as they are…. those who vote for them are just like them.. no common sense at all..

We Will Barack You   September 9th, 2008 2:09 pm ET

OBAMA/BIDEN 08
OBAMA/BIDEN 08
OBAMA/BIDEN 08
OBAMA/BIDEN 08
OBAMA/BIDEN 08
OBAMA/BIDEN 08
OBAMA/BIDEN 08
OBAMA/BIDEN 08
OBAMA/BIDEN 08
OBAMA/BIDEN 08
OBAMA/BIDEN 08
OBAMA/BIDEN 08
OBAMA/BIDEN 08
OBAMA/BIDEN 08

Think it through   September 9th, 2008 2:08 pm ET

How pompous and arrogant can this guy get?

Something has changed in last few days in the Obama camp, he is going off the cuff a lot with remarks that are easily proven wrong, they seem to be shouting a lot (Biden for sure), and just seem unorganized in general. The McCain camp doesn’t need to do anything but stand back and watch the temper tantrums being displayed by Obama/Biden

I am not speculating as to why, I am just making an observation. I am looking forward to the debates. Mr. Obama may do great things for our country in a few years, however his arrogance pushed him to move too soon.

deb   September 9th, 2008 2:08 pm ET

This is just same old politics. Outgoing presidents always try to please the people at the last minute so they go out smelling like roses. Give me a break.

Meanwhile, the media are having a field day with Sarah Palin. They need to do their jobs and report on the issues. This woman is so far to the right of what most Americans want it's scary. Please, people, Obama CARES about the American people and our jobs, health care, educations, etc., etc. Palin is just another right wing, religious nut who wants to teach creationism in the schools! Haven't we had enough of that! Look where it has gotten us!!! Nowhere!

OBAMA/BIDEN '08

Education 1st   September 9th, 2008 2:08 pm ET

It is so hard to read these comments and accept they are from the American people. The way people think never ceases to amaze me.
What education level did they get? These people must be out of jobs and bored trying to think they are doing something. Well, I must get back to work, do not have time for all this garbage. I know who I will vote for and no second thoughts. Good bye.

Idiots Vote for Pailin & McCain   September 9th, 2008 2:07 pm ET

Bush and McBush are stupid. The president is Commander and Chief. There is a reason our forefathers put them over the military. And slowly but surely the GOPoop had given that power back to the military.

Obama is right and Bush and the village idiots are WRONG. My vote goes to the only candidate who can get us out of this quagmire.

And for the record, Sarah Pailin is mascot, nothing more. That's why she can't talk to the press. You people are idiots.

m4rk   September 9th, 2008 2:06 pm ET

Nothing makes the Dems happy.

MOST IN THE REPUBLICAN PARTY ARE AGENTS FROM HELL   September 9th, 2008 2:05 pm ET

KEEP UP PEOPLE THUS FAR OBAMA HAS BEEN RIGHT ABOUT EVERY ISSUE THAT HAS COME UP!!!

Veterans for Obama   September 9th, 2008 2:05 pm ET

FYI…The surge did not work as planned. If it had, we would have drawn down a year ago, saving us billions in debt to China. So when McCain claims the surge is working, I say to what end? Our military is weaker than ever, our economy is $420 billion in the red, and Al Qaeda is stronger than before Iraq…..go figure McCain.

Americans are being duped by McCain and Palin…..unless you make over $250,000 /year, you should vote for Obama.

Undecided   September 9th, 2008 2:05 pm ET

It doesn't matter to me one way or the other who is elected I am financially set for life and so are my children.. Americans that are stuggling to make it I suggest you wake up an listen to what going on your complaining about Bush but guess who voted him in a second you did becauce of lack of knowledge

jm for sc   September 9th, 2008 2:05 pm ET

Obama never said anything different regarding the war. This is nothing to play with. Bush has really gotten us into a mess with the help of McCain as well as Hillary Clinton. Obama has been firm on his intentions to bring our troops home as carefully as we were carelessly going into the war. That meant as it means now, he will take into an account of the conditions on the ground as well as the intelligence reports, which was ignored by the Bush administration, in making his decisions. You don't have to have been captured as a POW to know how to end this war.

Obama/Biden 08

PHIL TEXAS   September 9th, 2008 2:04 pm ET

NOW OBAMA IS TAKING CREDIT FOR THIS. BUT HE IS STILL NOT HAPPY

mark from NY   September 9th, 2008 2:04 pm ET

this election is not about issue it is about obama the black guy who cannot be president under the watch of whites supremacy. this is the fact people. when some white people say that obama does not share their values that mean he is not one of them. he is black. that is ashame for america

former hillary supporter now for Obma   September 9th, 2008 2:04 pm ET

to American for real change..WHAT IS OUR GOAL IN IRAK????

Obama might be down in the polls…BUT HE IS STILL AHEAD IN THE ELECTORAL VOTES….after all that's what counts…

He will be ahead in the polls after the debates..that is a given..the pittbull with lipstick doesnt even know what a VP is suppose to do…SHE SAID IT!

kim   September 9th, 2008 2:02 pm ET

Barack will win the election, I simply cannot believe that americans are so dumb as to give these imbeciles 4 more years. If John Mccain gets elected I think we would need to update the report on just how many american suffer from a serious mental disorder, using the number of people that voted for mccain as a starting point..

Olivia, NV   September 9th, 2008 2:02 pm ET

W stands for WORST PRESIDENT IN MODERN HISTORY.

Obama/Biden 08

Paris   September 9th, 2008 2:02 pm ET

It is sad that Obama was so vested in defeat and not we can smell victory for America.
I wonder why Obama, Pelosi and Harry Reed were so determined to accept such big defeat for their country?
As a leader you don’t do that.

Clinton   September 9th, 2008 2:02 pm ET

I'm so tired of the chear shots by Republicans and posters on here. I don't believe either candidate is evil or hates this country. But there is a stark difference on how they want to bring about change and success, and right now Obama has laid down his cards and I can understand what change he will bring. Even after the RNC, I'm still not sure what McCain is wanting to do, but I'm willing to listen.

It does occur to me that some people want change without paying for it, and that never works. I don't want to pay any more taxes than I have to, but the truth is that we all pay "taxes" in some shape or form. If I have to pay the Federal Government more out of my paycheck to reduce our dependency on oil, get help on sending my kids to college, and providing a better, cleaner, world – then I'm willing to that. Because those things are what we leave for our kids, and we will pay one way or another…

Smart thinker   September 9th, 2008 2:02 pm ET

One thing politcal figures love, is to hear all the comments in the politcal ticker. It keeps them on their toes and know what kind of questions may be popped during debates and news media.
Thanks to all of you.

Careful now..   September 9th, 2008 2:02 pm ET

You wont have to worry about it Obama. You won't make it to the White House.

Chris in CT   September 9th, 2008 2:01 pm ET

Would someone please tell me, Repubs- Just what IS OUR GOAL in Iraq? I keep hearing that we need to stay "until we achieve our goal". What is it? More oil? More blood?

Nelson, MO   September 9th, 2008 2:01 pm ET

When the snake McCain brings Pailin out of the bunker, maybe the press will be able to find out why she wasn't vetted. The decision was made so quickly that the vetting team was sent to Alaska, one day before she was introduced to the country. I'd say that shows a lack of respect for Americans.

O/B 08

Veterans for Obama   September 9th, 2008 2:01 pm ET

It's amazing that Bush wouldn't deploy more troops to Afghanistan! Why are our troops forgotten in the REAL WAR ON TERROR?

Maria   September 9th, 2008 2:00 pm ET

Oh Gosh,
please make 01-20-2009 come SOON!!!!!

132 days seem too long when desperate… :(

Susan   September 9th, 2008 1:59 pm ET

What I don't get is how people do not understand that this is just a Republican ploy to help McLame win. If this were not an election year, Bush would have committed more of our overworked troops! This is a PLOY, America! Wake Up and smell the coffee! McCain and Gidget aren't going to do antythin to end this illegal war, but will llok for ways to extend it all for one thing – OIL!

J from DC   September 9th, 2008 1:59 pm ET

Yes John McCain is switching his colors and talk to match Obama's. Conservative Republicans are running as Democrats now. But be not fooled. This is not the reason for his recent poll bumps.
Stop looking for dirt on Palin because she is clean, maybe vindictive at best. The hard reality is that women identify with her because she looks and feels familiar to them. The problem is that they really can’t see how different she is from most of them. When they switch the Supreme Court next year, pro-choice goes out the window with it. But not for 4 years, but for the next 20 years. That is the wool being pulled over women’s eyes.
Problem is, women are not carrying this critical issue (their right to choose) in the forefront of their minds. They won’t get it tell it’s too late, and after the price for Palins seat proves too expensive in personal rights.

Anonymous   September 9th, 2008 1:57 pm ET

I think its clear as day. If the idea is Obamas to pull some troops out its a great thing and shows he cares about the troops right???? If troops numbers are reduced because of President Bush you try to take credit for it?!?!? AHHHHH that is pathetic and is that must be more CHANGE you can believe in??? He is like that relative you invite to a gathering and when its over he wont leave your house and doesn't take the hint. Wonder when HE will start to get it…Obama is just …. well… I am starting to feel sorry for him……

President McCain   September 9th, 2008 1:56 pm ET

The Patriot – Who was the other maverick?

Alice in Florida   September 9th, 2008 1:56 pm ET

Barack needs to shut up! Sarah is the new star! Barack just is so YESTERDAY NOW

McCain/Palin '08
Clinton '12

PUMA!

Wayne, IN   September 9th, 2008 1:55 pm ET

Have you ever noticed that when Bush wants to give a speech, he has to go and stand in front of the military or in this case the Defense University. That's because he knows they can't boo him.

He's not smarter than a 5th grader, and we are not falling for his dimwitted pea-brain tactics.

The man is not capable of running the country. We are paying for millions of stupid voters who put him in office. Now they want to do the same thing with McCain and Pailin. Well, not this time, no way, not this time–NEVER AGAIN.

redneck for obama   September 9th, 2008 1:55 pm ET

obama is correct ,again. republicans are blinded by the 'light'.

shannon   September 9th, 2008 1:55 pm ET

Obama's plan?!?!?

The plan has always been to draw down troops as the Iraqis stand up.

This was the plan before Obama even came to Washington.

Who is he kidding?

He can't just make this stuff up.

Tim   September 9th, 2008 1:54 pm ET

Here is a clue to all the clueless. Obama will eventually be right. When we pull the troops out of Iraq, he can say "see I was right". It's exactly like a broken clock. Keep saying it is 12:00 and eventually you will be right.

The difference is Bush and McCain are right now, and have always been right on the big question.

John McPain   September 9th, 2008 1:54 pm ET

Mc Cain / Pai(l)n 2008 – get ready for a bumpy ride!!!!

FL Obama Supporter   September 9th, 2008 1:54 pm ET

I find it funny that people think Obama is adopting either Hillary's or McCain's policies, when it has clearly been the other way around.

The one-time Community Organizer will be the next POTUS. Gonna be great!

Obama/Biden '08/'12

Kathryn, Nevada   September 9th, 2008 1:53 pm ET

Obama said: “And what’s going to be required is a comprehensive strategy, and that’s what I’ve been offering for the last two years.

Lie number………………Oh Heck, I lost count ! ! He only used "comprehensive strategy" after he beat Hillary! Prior to that, he continually said, "Imediate Withdraw".

I guess he's hoping those people in Dayton don't have good memories!!!!

Some of us are aware of the only stratagy Obama does use, and that is to thell the people what they want to hear at the time just to get their votes!
He ust really think we Americans are stupid!

The Patriot   September 9th, 2008 1:53 pm ET

WE DON'T NEED ANOTHER MAVERICK, WE NEED A PRESIDENT!!

Moderate and Balanced   September 9th, 2008 1:53 pm ET

Oh PUHLEZE!

Obama doesn't have a clue what he's talking about and his little "press conferences" designed to make him look "presidential" are ridiculous. There is no doubt in my mind that Obama would not give a hoot what the military commanders suggest…he would do what the far left wants him to do to keep their support. He has NOT been suggesting troop increases in Afghanistan. He condemned it in the primaries!!! It was Hilliary who promoted troop increases. Obama has changed his position so many times he can't remember what he said in the past.

The Patriot   September 9th, 2008 1:53 pm ET

Hey Sarah!

Do you know more about Iraq war that you did not have time for?

Did you find out what the VP does since you didnt know 2 weeks ago?

John McCain said he did not know much about the economy – have you taught him yet?

Hey Sarah, you DID campaign FOR the bridge before you were against it! So much for straight talk!

Your party has been in control for 7.5+ years. Why should we give you another chance?

Name me 5 things you can do that are not the same as Bush!
- Are you FOR tax cuts for the wealthiest 1%?
- Are you FOR staying in Iraq indefinitely?
- Are you FOR health care for all Americans (…and Alaskan's)?
- Are you FOR the Patriot Act?

YOU WERE NOT VETTED GIRLFRIEND!!!!! It was as much a surprise to you as it was to us!

Rob Kole   September 9th, 2008 1:53 pm ET

Obama,

Tell the husbands, wives, sons and daughters who are getting their loved ones back safe and sound it a "modest step".

John McPain   September 9th, 2008 1:53 pm ET

blah

DisenfranchisedHills for McCain   September 9th, 2008 1:53 pm ET

Obama's just can not admit when a big issue of his is no longer relevant to this election! Now,he is scrambling!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Panic stricken!!!. You can tell! His whole camp is floundering for a platform for Obama to promote that is still relevant,while McCain keeps looking more capable of making the right decisions. Until they can come up with an important issue,the plan if him to continue attacking a woman who has more experience than him in executive and administrative matters! Not a good plan!!!!!!!!

American For Real Change   September 9th, 2008 1:52 pm ET

Obam should be ashamed of himself. He has insulted our troops and the American Citizens. We need to continue in Iraq until we have achieved our goal. And we are close to it! Do you want war here on our turf? Then vote for Obama because that is exactly what will happen. Ever since the Dems have demanded that God be taken out of our schools, our Government and out of society in general, America has had turbulance. This wonderful Country was founded on Bibilical Principals.

Tim   September 9th, 2008 1:52 pm ET

Duh, he and the rest of the democrats have already acknowledged that they will not follow the advice of the military leaders.

MISINFORMED   September 9th, 2008 1:52 pm ET

THIS IS FOR THE MISINFORM REPUBS;

YOUR QUOTE "OBAMA DOESN'T KNOW ANYTHING ABOUT Constitution of the United States "

———————————————————————————————-

WELL ONCE AGAIN IT JUST PROVES YOU KNOW NOTHING ABOUT THIS MAN……

HE ONLY TAUGHT Constitution Law at Harvard…and the President of the HARVARD LAW REVIEW ……..GET YOUR FREAKIN FACTS STRAIGHT………

THIS IS WHY THE OUR BEAUIFUL COUNTRY IS GOING TO HELL…….BECAUSE OF PEOPLE WITHIN YOUR (REPUB-PARTY)……YOUR REFUSAL TO READ AND EDUCATE YOURSELVES IS UN-AMERICAN…….

PLEASE "JUST STOP" MAKING THINGS UP

OBAMA/BIDEN 08

proud to be an american   September 9th, 2008 1:52 pm ET

Listen up you Obama lovers. Obama is connected in ways we do not even know about…Who funded his college and how did he get in..Guess? the Saudi's. Wake up. He will be taking us to socialism and marksism..the goverment will control everything..He is the wrong ticket of change. even Biden aggreed with this way back when…another flip flopper….America needs change but not Obama…
Vote McCain Palin and save this country from disaster…

Sammy   September 9th, 2008 1:51 pm ET

Still funny how people use partyline talking points for their arguments. Both campaigns should simply put a few daily generic responses and people can just cut and paste. Wham bam thank you ma'am.

Palin has more experience than Obama   September 9th, 2008 1:51 pm ET

Poor Obama does not know what to do.

mike   September 9th, 2008 1:51 pm ET

By the way oshame voted for the bridge to nowhere. He never met a port barrell project he did not like.

Cindy   September 9th, 2008 1:51 pm ET

It's a gimmick. Like Clinton's removal of troups in 60 days. Like the gas tax holiday. While I'm happy for the troups who will be coming home, I don't see longevity in this plan.

They're playing the American people for fools. Like we did 4 years ago, Like we did 8 years ago… Don't be fooled again, people.

Cheryl L   September 9th, 2008 1:50 pm ET

Did anyone see Michael Ware this morning? He tells it like it is about Iraq and the surge and the whole battle that is going on.

Bryan, Michigan   September 9th, 2008 1:50 pm ET

I just completely fail to understand how any american can trust in anything Bush or McCain does or says. Look at their records. McCain will continue to support a war that has no strategy.

McCain is anything but a maverick and he certainly has flopped on issue after issue solely to get support from the GOP base. Some many of these issues he doesn't even believe in.

McSame said himself, "I have done some things I am not proud of to get elected." He is a moraless creep and will do nothing differently than the worst president in our history.

Anna   September 9th, 2008 1:49 pm ET

Finally, Bush is trying to make a positive move. It's kind of too late for that. Yes, I must say the worst president in history. Now we need some changing around here. WE NEED TO CLEAN HOUSE and CLEAN UP OUR COUNTRY. Bush left us to hang out and dry. We NEED a president who ACTUALLY cares about "WE THE PEOPLE" and I do know that OBAMA is the closest to saving this country.

I support OBAMA because we can't stand to lose a chance for CHANGE.

OBAMA/BIDEN '08

FreeNLovIt   September 9th, 2008 1:49 pm ET

I watched David Gergen a couple of weeks ago (Economy and Iraq War) and I just watched Woodward on the war in Iraq, and you know, we have A LOT of challenges, but I TRULY believe, that the BEST of the BEST in AMerica can LIFT this country up.

My favorite statement: Anyone who believes the Republicans can fix the mess they created; also believes the iceberg could've saved the Titanic." — Hillary Clinton

question   September 9th, 2008 1:49 pm ET

sorry ..that was afghanistan…..

Breck   September 9th, 2008 1:49 pm ET

Good going Obama. Don't let the Bush Administration, one of the worst in history, off the hook. You've been right all along on Iraq, McCain has been wrong, and the old fool still won't admit it.

Alicia, TX   September 9th, 2008 1:49 pm ET

Give me a break, of course Obama is playing it cool, just like he won't say that the surge worked!

Obama/Biden are the worst thing that could happen to the presidency!

At the end of the day, Obama's thin resume will become very clear!

McCain/Palin '08!!!

No Way, No How, NObama   September 9th, 2008 1:48 pm ET

Obama's whole career has been "lukewarm." Why should anything "change" for him?

How many "Present" votes does it take to make "Change?"

McCain/Palin '08

ANGIE   September 9th, 2008 1:48 pm ET

Once again obama has been right all along that disgrace of a president has no right to talk about our brave men and woman putting them in harms way and getting them killed ON HIS LIES I CANNOT WAIT UNTIL SENATOR OBAMA takes over the WHITE HOUSE!

redneck for obama   September 9th, 2008 1:48 pm ET

he's only 'drawing down' to the level of the pre-surge. he has left a mess ,for the next president, and mccain isnt equipped to deal with it. neither is palin.

Jean   September 9th, 2008 1:48 pm ET

Wait…

Does Obama want to bring the troops home or not?

He says he does but when the President decides to start the withdrawal it's not ok. Sounds like Obama is losing his sound bytes and his ability to run against President Bush.

Come on, Barrack… when are you going to put America First?

John   September 9th, 2008 1:48 pm ET

Obama was wrong, as were most of us, about the surge. McCain was right. Obama's line on taxes will not convince people either. Taxing businesses and raising the capital gains tax will affect everyone. Also, the democrats shouldn't raise the experience issue or the former pastor issue (as CNN is doing) regarding Palin. These are two issues that only hurt Obama. But hey, that's fine with me. So, full steam ahead, CNN!

McCain 08.

steve dumford, Scotts valley ca.   September 9th, 2008 1:47 pm ET

Just like he was "lukewarm" about the troop surge, Oh, that was before it was obvious it worked. Just like he had lukewarm thoughts about maybe joining the military. Oh, that's right, there wasn't a war. He would have joined if there had been one. Oh, and he's "lukewarm" about NAFTA, and rescinding the tax cuts for the rich,
Let me see, he was also "lukewarm' about the Patriot Act, before he voted for it. And then there's his "lukewarm" supprt for offshore oil drilling. But, wasn't he against that? Looks like he's signed on to almost all of McCains positions. Guess we can start calling him "McBama. "

eds   September 9th, 2008 1:47 pm ET

Sorry if this repeats–hard to believe comments are not closed! Didn't get any notification so:

Proud Army and Navy Mom:
YOUR right to vote was a direct result of "community organizers".

All the loud idiots that knock people who actually care about others, and try to help should clam it.

This country needs way more people willing to help others/volunteer/THINK and ACT charitably rather than continuing on their egocentric paths to out-doing the guy next door.

Change and Hope are what made this country great.

The founding fathers didn't have one wit of "job experience' on their resumes–just the guts to try.

FreeNLovIt   September 9th, 2008 1:47 pm ET

Someone mentioned that it doesnt matter how many people or $ it takes to win, we just need to win.

I disagree with these statemetns. We have a MARATHON to run and we must not be burned out or overheat ourselves. WE must run to survive the next 100 years War.

What good is it if you burned out aftr 10 years of war and lose 90 years worth of wars?

If you win 10 wars, what good is it if you have no economy? Your country has been bought out by foreigners? You owe your enemy money?

We must be smart! Our government cannot save us. We must save our government. We must demand that the best serve the country!

mike   September 9th, 2008 1:47 pm ET

Om my gosh, some of the troops are coming home and obama and his fellow liberal bed wetters are not happy. I guess it was not about the troops at all but about making noise. By the way, no one can replace democrat jimmy carter as the worst president in history and well into the future I might expect. Of course if oshame is elected that will change but the democrats will have both of the worst.

SHAME   September 9th, 2008 1:47 pm ET

to proud army mom and navy mom no one is born is experienced. you stated that obama resume resemble a college summer hire and is not qualify to be POTUS. you are correct he is qualify for greater things. Let your republicam continued to run down your lovebable USA for in four years this wonderful black man will shine and you will continue to live from pay check to pay check or if you are lucky to have that.

Linda K.   September 9th, 2008 1:47 pm ET

A real leader has the judgment to know the difference between a war worth fighting and an unfortunate mistake.

We need judgment in the White House again.

Obama/Biden 08

anon   September 9th, 2008 1:46 pm ET

proud army and navy mom said: It was a nice try the whole "Change" and "Hope" thing. however why dont you try again in 2016 when your resume doesnt resemble that of a college summer hire.
______________________________________________________

Interesting you should say that given that McCain is now running on that "change" thing your so mocking. And if you even bothered to read Obama's "summer resume", it wouldn't be full of lies like that one that Palin has.

question   September 9th, 2008 1:46 pm ET

obama, is not a happy camper…..the troops are comming home…and he wants to send them to afganitan…….instead…doesnt look good …when he tells everyone they going back ….to war………..

debbie   September 9th, 2008 1:46 pm ET

Ofcourse he is lukewarm, its not like he can jump up and down about what bush did… if he does that he wouldnt have anything else to run on.

The Patriot   September 9th, 2008 1:46 pm ET

WHO CARES WHAT BUSH HAS TO SAY RIGHT NOW!

Check out Bob Woodward's new book, "The War Within" This is THE WORST PRESIDENT IN U.S. HISTORY! John McCain could not gather a crowd of mice before Palin came along. How can some of you be so shallow and stupid to fall for this. She is a woman with no qualifications to be President. I dont care if she does it in a skirt. John McCain and I agree on one point – the world is too dangerous for this type of inexperience.

Let's give McCain and Palin a ride on the bridge to nowhere….

Texas Straight Talker   September 9th, 2008 1:46 pm ET

Rick Davis said on MSNBC on Friday morning that the McCain campaign will do WHATEVER it takes to win including shielding Palin from the press totally if that is what it takes. This statement is frightening and disturbing! Why should Palin be shielding from questions that ALL American should have about the person who may well be responsible for this country should McCain win and something happens to him. We deserve to know where she stands on the issues and she should be under the same microscope that certainly Obama, Biden and (somewhat) McCain have been under. Please don't allow race, lies, smears and even fears to cloud your judgement in this election. We have way too much at stake to allow another Republican to take office for another four years. If John McCain really wanted to "shake up Washington" he would have done so by now. After all, he has had more than 25 years to do it. Don’t be fooled – not this time!

MIKE   September 9th, 2008 1:46 pm ET

QUICK EVERYONE….BARRY IS BEGGING FOR MORE MONEY!!!!!

YES THAT IS RIGHT FOLKS, HE HAS SPENT MORE MONEY THAN ANY PRESEDENTIAL CANDIDATE AND IS STILL BEHIND!!!!

PLEASE SEND HIM AS MUCH AS YOU CAN…HE WILL RETURN IT TO YOU IN THE FORM OF WELFARE CHECKS, FREE COLLEGE, FREE HEALTHCARE, FREE ANYTHING YOU WANT ONCE HE IS ELECTED. YOU CAN'T LOSE PEOPLE.

PLEASE SEND MORE MONEY TO BARRY….LIKE ALL HIS OTHER POSITIONS…THE ONLY THING YOU NEED TO FIX ANY PROBLEM IS TO THROW MONEY AT IT!

GO BARRY! ORGANIZE US!

Tony   September 9th, 2008 1:45 pm ET

Never underestimate the ignorance, nor the gulibility, of the American people.

The republicans don't. As a matter of fact, they count on it.

He's the changiest   September 9th, 2008 1:44 pm ET

The changing mind of Obama:

Change You Can Believe In. Or Not.

Foreign observer   September 9th, 2008 1:44 pm ET

Secret killings of Irak insurgents and their family members probably is an idea from Cheney. Bush asked for body count and so he received it. That´s the way Irakis have learned about how democracy works. The style remembers at Saddam – stupid.

bill mullis   September 9th, 2008 1:43 pm ET

bush is history what a legecy he leaves behind budget was balanced when supreme court elected him now my great great grand kids will pay for his blunders BUT WHO WILL PAY FOR THE WRONGFUL DEATHS THAT THIS MISERABLE EXCUSE FOR HUMAN BEING CAUSED CAINT WAIT TILL BUSH IS BACK IN TEXAS

FreeNLovIt   September 9th, 2008 1:43 pm ET

These two parties are fused together. WE must make good use of them. It is necessary and essential we balance them to protect AMerica.

Overall, we need to call the attack dogs home.

Let's learn from the military: Hit lethally and re-supply.

There will be more wars, so let's take good care of our economy so we can fight for freedom, in the next 100 years.

This is a marathon race. We must pace ourselves to win MAJOR battles. In my mind, Bush's persistence, has paid off and paved the way for negotiation to happen.

Now, we need Obama to start a conversation with them.

The Patriot   September 9th, 2008 1:42 pm ET

Team McCain:

All McCain talked about was his status as a POW until beauty queen Palin came along. P-O-W is the sound you will hear when her ballon pops! Barack said it – AMERICAN'S ARE NOT STUPID!!!!

David   September 9th, 2008 1:42 pm ET

The Iraq War always has been a mistake caused by G W Bush. The surge had two goals, only one has been met. The one goal that is failing is the Iraqi government were to restructure itself and take over.They were supposed to have elections in October, and by all accounts that is not going to happen. The surge had two objectives, and only one has been met.

Ask McCain why Bin Laden is still free to move around seven years after 9/11? Ask McCain why did he and Bush dropped the ball on the War on Terror? Ask McCain how many brave Americans should die for righting a wrong?Ask McCain how many Americans should suffer here, while he supports giving American tax dollars to aid Iraq who raised a 79 Million surplus

You know executive experience means nothing these days. For example Bush has way more executive experience than Palin, and look how well America benefited from that over the last 8 years. We need people who have good judgment , who is not disconnected from Americans who are suffering. We need Obama

Lone Star Wolf   September 9th, 2008 1:42 pm ET

Well hopefully take it from a 28-year retiree of the United States Army who has one son who is also a retiree of the Army and another one who is a LTC Battalion Commander of a unit just back from Iraq finishing his third tour there. He says the job is not done and OBAMA is full of crap if he thinks the military wants to run from the enemy. SO YOU PEOPLE VOTE HIM INTO OFFICE AND LET THE DEMOCRATS FINISH DESTROYING OUR ONLY SECURITY WITH THE ARMED FORCES OF THE UNITED STATES. McCAIN/PALIN 08.

PUMA PALIN   September 9th, 2008 1:42 pm ET

Wasn't that Hillary's plan?

Nice try Obama… man you are really sinking fast… must be the big rock between your ears

Linda   September 9th, 2008 1:42 pm ET

proud army and navy mom fits in perfect with McCain/Palin. I hate to tell you but Palin is now showing us that she can only stand by old McCain and repeat the words written for her by the Bush and McCain cronies. She can't talk to anyone or be on her own. She is a sarcastic, degrading and now finding out her special memorized speech is full of lies and great spin. How pathetic to think most Americans will fall for her empty energy. If she is so tough and smart why is this maverick letting McCain and co. hide her in a closet not allowing her to talk since she is so ready to take over our country if needed??????????? Palin definately belongs with the lieing schemeing republicans in there now!
VOTE OBAMA

Deandra, NY   September 9th, 2008 1:42 pm ET

Bush is the face of everything that is wrong with this country. I will buy Bob Woodward's book because he is telling the truth. His first book on Bush was very flattering. He would not have written another, unless he wanted to set the record straight. That's the sign of a true American.

Bush has never cared about anything in his life. His legacy will be one of pain and suffering. The irony is he will suffer for the rest of his life because he will never be able to erase the stain of his presidency. He will never be able to look any American in the eye without seeing their disgust. I blame the entire Bush family. Their personal goals to have three presidents in the family hurt all of us. Bush Sr. allowed his son to run for a job that he simply wasn't qualified to do.

We are at a crossroad. We have an opportunity for real change, or adapted, bogus promises of change from the GOP. I hope Americans are smarter this time. The country and the world are watching.

Willa-PA   September 9th, 2008 1:42 pm ET

Below you will read but a few votes McCain voted against.

September 2007: McCain voted against the Webb amendment calling for adequate troop rest between deployments. At the time, nearly 65% of people polled in a CNN poll indicted that "things are going either moderately badly or very badly inIraq.

May 2006: McCain voted against an amendment that would provide $20 million to the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) for health care facilities.

April 2006: McCain was one of only 13 Senators to vote against $430,000,000 for the Department of Veteran Affairs for Medical Services for outpatient care and treatment for veterans.

March 2006: McCain voted against increasing Veterans medical services funding by $1.5 billion in FY 2007 to be paid for by closing corporate tax loopholes.

In reading a past piece by The Hill dated, May 17th, 2007, you will read, “Sen. McCain has spent considerable time defending the president on Iraq and catering to the Republican base on immigration, but has only managed to show up for four of the last 14 Iraq votes…”

It is no wonder why that protester who interrupted his speech was so angry. I would be too especially if a candidate could become the next president of the United States.

Vincent   September 9th, 2008 1:41 pm ET

proud army and navy mom,

I'm with you, four more years of the same!! Can't wait!! My kids will suffer but, you know what, I don't care!!!! And about my Veteran's benefits? I don't need them either.

I am so happy that I don't need to think for a living, I LIKE it that others can do it for me!!

Phoenix   September 9th, 2008 1:41 pm ET

Obama, why should you worry. Isn't it funny how these people keep adopting your policies and then people are acting like somehow their ideas are original such as change. Remember, Republicans are copy cats.

REAL REPUBLICANS — DO NOT SUPPORT PALIN AND MCCAIN (You will be a sellout. This message is endorsed by an angry black Republican)

tracy   September 9th, 2008 1:41 pm ET

Obama is correct and we need that 10 billion over here rebuilding our American whle the Iraqis sit on 79 billion dollars of oil profits. These people are hating on Obama because he is the man. Bush fell short and McCain wants to double down on this failed strategy. Al-Queada sent a tape and Bush is ignoring the call.

Kent   September 9th, 2008 1:41 pm ET

In order for Bush/McCain to continue their war efforts, did it ever occur to many of you that the DRAFT will probably come into play? Hang on tight folks, the DRAFT is coming for a loved one near you!

Byrd   September 9th, 2008 1:41 pm ET

Some of you are truly ignorant…even in 2004 electorial debuts they were saying troops should be conentrating on aghanastahn and not iraq……also its funny this year that democrats have had a femal nominee as well as advocating change in the economy….all of a sudden you have a female vp pick for republicans and have changed their campaign slogan to change as well….since repubs are doing the same thing over and over again now they are either copying democrats or taking their advised and submitting as their own accomplishments

linda seeba   September 9th, 2008 1:41 pm ET

mr maccaine is changeing word and that is change may be him and sara pailene or sara plaine should take more listen from mr obama ..ok ofter all it wont work .oh i mean ofter 8 years. when we say change we want obama he is the man yes he is the men .

Dave   September 9th, 2008 1:40 pm ET

What Obama fails to mention is that the troop withdrawal was done according to the suggestions of the commanders on the ground. Obama has said that he would consult with the commanders on the ground. Bush is doing this, Obama is merely playing politics with a war that at this point can and should be won.

Tired of the Lies   September 9th, 2008 1:40 pm ET

What's the matter…thunder gone….poor Barack. His best strategy seems to be adopting McCain's.

If you'd been following events for the last 17 months instead of the last 17 hours, you would be able to easily see that McCain's poll results were low until he started usurping Obama's platform.

McCain's campaign reminds me of Palin's Bridge to Nowhere: advocate for one thing until you realize it's not working, then flip-flop and brag about how right you are. But always, always insist it was what you thought all along.

Team America   September 9th, 2008 1:39 pm ET

Obama's new campaign slogan: There is no "I" in team, but there is a "me".

Johanna not voting GOP   September 9th, 2008 1:39 pm ET

Just in from former Mayor Ed Koch:
I have concluded that the country is safer in the hands of Barack Obama, leader of the Democratic Party and protector of the philosophy of that party. Protecting and defending the U.S. means more than defending us from foreign attacks. It includes defending the public with respect to their civil rights, civil liberties and other needs, e.g., national health insurance, the right of abortion, the continuation of Social Security, gay rights, other rights of privacy, fair progressive taxation and a host of other needs and rights.

If the vice president were ever called on to lead the country, there is no question in my mind that the experience and demonstrated judgment of Joe Biden is superior to that of Sarah Palin. Sarah Palin is a plucky, exciting candidate, but when her record is examined, she fails miserably with respect to her views on the domestic issues that are so important to the people of the U.S., and to me. Frankly, it would scare me if she were to succeed John McCain in the presidency.

Spencer from VA   September 9th, 2008 1:39 pm ET

It sounds like Sen. Obama knows what he is talking about. And warmonger McCain wants to keep troops there indefinitely. Even this unpopular president is "trying" to wise up. Although 8,000 is far from 300,000 troops. They need to refocus mission to Afghanistan.

Phil Newton from Murphy, Oregon   September 9th, 2008 1:38 pm ET

Looks more and more as if the G.O.P. is following the policies advocated by Obama.

Maybe they ARE listening.

LET IT GO   September 9th, 2008 1:38 pm ET

LOL proud army and navy mom I feel sorry for you. You don't even know what's going on.

SHAME   September 9th, 2008 1:38 pm ET

BUSH:

YOU AND YOUR PARTY HAVE BROUGHT SHAME TO AMERICA……

PLEASE SHUT UP

NOBODY'S INTERESTED EXCEPT FOR YOUR BASE WHICH WE ALL CAN SEE IS NOT DEALING WITH A FULL DECK………..

NO MORE LIES,

OBAMA/BIDEN 08

Bruce   September 9th, 2008 1:38 pm ET

well Obama was right and now Bush is finally doing something ,but he is letting it go until he is out of office so that the next person will have to clean up his mess, or continue it.
About time he saw the light that he should have spent the time and money to go after the murderer of our citizens…or ahve all the repubs forgotten who actually did attack us 7 years ago…it was not the iraqi's.
For those who want to dimiish what a community organizer does get off your butts and do something for your community and the citzens og THIS country who need help.

Rick   September 9th, 2008 1:37 pm ET

The more Obama opens his mouth the more foolish he looks. He has no clue.

Spencer from VA   September 9th, 2008 1:37 pm ET

It sounds like Sen. Obama knows what he is talking about. And warmonger McCain wants to keep troops there indefinitely. Even this unpopular president is trying to wise up and follow Sen. Obama's gameplan.

FreeNLovIt   September 9th, 2008 1:37 pm ET

I do not support Bush, but I do appreciate what he has done for America. He did a great job, SCARING the HELL out of the terrorist movements.

I am proud of these Republickan atttack dogs, but it's time for this Fighting Machine to let the Democrats win.

The Republican Fighting Maching is battery-operated by the Democrats. It's time for change. IT's to re-charge to create the next generation of jobs. It's time to re-boot.

Our economy is our National Security. We must take care of it, so in the future, we can let our beloved Republican ATTACK DOGS out again.

Lane   September 9th, 2008 1:37 pm ET

I'm in favor of the war in Iraq. In fact, I hope it continues for another 100 years. If we lose more and more of our youth to casualties, maybe the public will wise up…until then, who cares, my children aren't over there. VOTE McCain!!!!!

Obama is right on again!!   September 9th, 2008 1:36 pm ET

Obama is right on again!! And all you people commenting against him trying commenting to the topic and stop trying to devert the attention away from the fact that the republican have no platform to stand on which is why they are trying to steal it from the Obama camp. Again comment on the article, you don't have a comment to that because you and I both know Obama was right!!!

We're NOT "your friends"!!!   September 9th, 2008 1:36 pm ET

Dont hate McBush……Listen your campaign is over, sorry you lost. Everyone knows you are unqualified to be POTUS when your only accomplishment is bing a POW.

It was a nice try the whole "Maverick" thing. However why dont you try retiring, and leaving the country in the hands of someone who actually understands where were at as a nation and not someone who's mindset was left back in the 70's.

Thanks.

Obama/Biden '08

Steve, New York, New York   September 9th, 2008 1:36 pm ET

Forget Obama and Bush.

I want to hear what the GREAT GOVERNOR PALIN says about all of this.

Why are you hiding her, GOP??? Let's shine the spotlight on her on the Sunday talk circuits. Does she even know how to spell Baghdad, let alone, find it on a map?

Matt, MN   September 9th, 2008 1:35 pm ET

Wait, I thought Obama was telling us War = Bad.

Yet a man who goes on and on about Iraq, is more than willing to send more troops to Afghanastan, in addition he continues to bring up a desire to use military force to deal with Iran.

I don't really disagree with the logic of increasing the troops in Afghanastan and the possiblity of needing to use military force in Iran if it comes to that — but I've never went out of my way several times to talk about how War is Bad, and I'm going to bring our troops home. I didn't know Iranian and Afgahn soil were "home".

Dave in Leesburg   September 9th, 2008 1:35 pm ET

Of course he's lukewarm because the whole thing is above his paygrade.

RealityKing   September 9th, 2008 1:35 pm ET

And when Iraq is fully able to stand on it's own newly found democratic feet and all the American troops come home…, Obama will still be glad that America was moving in the direction of the policy that he advocated for years. Once again showing how out of touch with reality he really is..

Steve   September 9th, 2008 1:35 pm ET

It's very clear that the Whitehouse is setting the stage for a hugely challenging term for the next president. Watch this situation carefully. If McCain wins, there will be little or no draw down. If Obama wins, there will be a significant draw down.

For those of you who think Obama's campaign is over, merely because inherently faulty polls suggest McCain is slightly ahead, please remember that the popular vote does not elect the president. The Electoral College does. Currently, based on projections of which state will go to which candidate, Obama is over 50 points ahead of McCain. McCain has his work cut out for him to catch up.

Chris   September 9th, 2008 1:35 pm ET

Doesn't it seem that every major Foreign policy decision made by Bush lately mirrors what Obama has been calling for all along? Sounds like Obama has the judgment to lead. We can go on and on about how the surge has us "winning" the war, but of course putting a ton of the greatest military force in the world will help police a region. The question is how much longer can we afford to have our military stretched thin. With conflicts bubbling in Russia, Iran, and opportunities coming with leadership change in North Korea, we need diplomacy and to inspire, not a "maverick" with a hot temper. That "maverick" will inflame tensions and do we really need to be at war with Russia right now? Iran and Syria will follow Russia's lead, Iraq will be failed and then we have WW3.

Obama- Next Stop.. White House   September 9th, 2008 1:34 pm ET

We ALL know this is just ANOTHER GIMMICK in a election year.

" They Must Think Your Stupid"

"No How, No Way No McClown or No McPalin!"

"Eight Is Enough!!!"

Barack The Vote!!

Republican Voting for Obama   September 9th, 2008 1:34 pm ET

Iraq's government wants us out. Americans want our troops out. Obama has never wanted to be in. George Bush is even seeing the light that we need to pull out…..

But McCain wants to continue THIS war indefinitely. And somehow I think that one war just won't be enough for him.

THE WAR IS COSTING AMERICA $10.3 BILLION DOLLARS A Month.

GEORGE MCCAIN/SARAH POWLENTY '08   September 9th, 2008 1:34 pm ET

1. Obama has been stating that we should talk to all of our enemies, while Republicans called it "appeasement".

Now, Republicans have a U.S. representative at the Iranian talks.

2. Obama has called for withdrawal timelines in Iraq, while Republicans called it "cut and run".

Now, Iraq will not sigh the NATO extension until the draft contains a specific timeline. Also, Republicans now have agreed to a "time horizon".

3. Obama has stated the real war against terror is and has been in Afghanistan.

Now Republicans agree and state more troops should go to Afghanistan.

4. Obama has been calling for change for 19 months.

Now the Republicans, are now the “agent of change” after a week, although they are not telling us how the next 4 will be different from the last 8.

Seems to me Obama has all the leadership skills that Republicans now wish they had. Obama certainly seems to be leading them around by the ring in their nose!

FreeNLovIt   September 9th, 2008 1:34 pm ET

Anyone who believes the Republicans can fix the mess they created; also believes the iceberg could've saved the Titanic." — Hillary Clinton

Proud Vet   September 9th, 2008 1:34 pm ET

Who wouldn't be lukewarm when the most incompetent administration ever makes an announcement.

Vogue   September 9th, 2008 1:33 pm ET

Bush……

do you really believe that we believe your lying aaaaaa can't turn on and off this war …….

NOW ALL OF A SUDDEN YOUR BRING TROOPS HOME…..

YOUR STILL GOING DOWN AS THE WORST PRESIDENT……NO MATTER WHAT YOU DO….

YOU LIED TO THE AMERICAN PEOPLE BECAUSE OF SINS OF YOUR FATHER…….WERE ON TO YOU…..

Tony   September 9th, 2008 1:33 pm ET

Bush, as usual, will say and do anything to attract a vote.

Jeff, AL   September 9th, 2008 1:33 pm ET

That Palin sure did take the thunder away from Obama. He must not have had a lot of substance or else it would not have happened so quickly.

Jay   September 9th, 2008 1:33 pm ET

Is anyone one else sick to death of hearing Obama talk. I sure the heck am. Blah blah, blah…
I , I, I, Me, Me, Me, yada yadda…

gerri   September 9th, 2008 1:32 pm ET

Wait till the money in payoffs to the insurgents runs out at the end of his term.Hes hoping to save some legacy,but even his library is in trouble,the schools students dont really want it here in Texas.Hes a loser and they know it.

Farrell, Houston, Tx   September 9th, 2008 1:32 pm ET

Obama's judgement call has been right all alone and understands what the outcome of what this unnecessary war has done. McCain isn't talking victory anymore because it meant killing all Iraqis, fact. McCain isn't talking about the surge anymore because the generals on the ground were responsible for the surge, not McCain, fact. McCain has been using false propaganda and lies that have finally caught up with him. John McCain himself needs further investigation along with Palin. America has to get it right this time and Obama/Biden are the right choices. John McCain may be a war hero and can't raise his arms but what about the many young American men and women who don't have any arms or legs caused by combat in Iraq. Think about it.

faye, NV   September 9th, 2008 1:32 pm ET

In my opinion Bush does not deserve and praise for nothing. After watching Larry King last night Bush is no commander in charge.
Bush=Palin+McCain this is a chain reaction to fail policies.

We need REAL CHANGE AND PITBULL NOR MCCAIN IS IT!

Airforce1   September 9th, 2008 1:32 pm ET

Let's get the facts out. While Ms. Pander tries to Turn up her nose at Obama for being a community organizer when the Fact is the United States obtain its' independent from the British because of Community Organizing. Let's show them what community organizing can really do. On To the White House.

demwit   September 9th, 2008 1:32 pm ET

Retreat is a Frence policy. Obama must have learned that from his buddy….

troy of Mississippi   September 9th, 2008 1:32 pm ET

Mr. Obama, I am a retired military person. I served for over 22 years. I can tell you that this is just a cover up. I do not believe that there is going to be a real drawdown, just something for Americans to believe that our servicemembers will be coming home soon. I have set in many briefing and I know that way they are thinking. John McCain wants to fight someone, anyone and he is hoping that he has a chance to by becoming the president. Young Men and Women of America if you do not want to be at war for years to come your best bet is to vote for OBAMA. John McCain wants to get revenge for being a prisoner and maybe in his mind he is still in prison. The Drawdown in a LIE. VOTE OBAMA. Troy

faye, NV   September 9th, 2008 1:32 pm ET

In my opinion Bush does not deserve and praise for nothing. After watching Larry King last night Bush is no commander in charge.
Bush=Palin+McCain this is a chain reaction to fail policies.

We need REAL CHANGE

Independent   September 9th, 2008 1:31 pm ET

I don't want to see another idiot in the White House. Obama is no different, he is another version of Bush!

Debbie   September 9th, 2008 1:31 pm ET

Sure John and Sarah…..are "the real mavericks alright"

TROOPERGATE INVESTIGATION SHUT DOWN-abuse of power….we are Americans (we follow the laws) as least some of us do.

THE USA MEDIA SHUT DOWN-cnn, msnbc, bet, abc, nbc, fox =isn't this the reason we are at WAR right now because you refuse to question BUSH properly regarding IRAQ …and now you won't VET sarah palin(your all a disgrace)

FREEDOM OF SPEECH SHUT DOWN (Chris Mattews *Keith Olbermann)

Repubs you can truely wave your little flags about YOUR TRUE AMERICAN SPIRIT….=what a FREAKIN JOKE

OBAMA/BIDEN 08

maddie   September 9th, 2008 1:31 pm ET

Exactly…how much has this war cost this nation? I'm talking lives not money. McCain and Lieberman pushed war with Irag even before the words were muttered from Bush's mouth. In fact, I remember John McCain demanding war on 9/11. And he chooses a so called "strong woman" who happens to also be a war monger. Four more years? ENOUGH ALREADY!

ANDY DAAS   September 9th, 2008 1:31 pm ET

Again Obama demonstrates he is the one with the right
judgement..

Jeff   September 9th, 2008 1:30 pm ET

And I'm a lifelong Democrat who is lukewarm if not downright cold on the idea of Obama as President. I'm going to avoid the polls in November as I can’t support and I sure as heck can’t support McCain. Then I will sit back and watch as the clowns put on a show for the next 4 years. What a disaster.

Candace- Texas   September 9th, 2008 1:30 pm ET

Obama has been a rock star for a long time…..and still is. He was a rock star when he entered the Senate… as all pop star inspire to be better so is Obama…Palin just made Senator Obama Iconic! Know he is a icon and no one compares!! We have not seen anything like Obama in a very long time and he will always be popular unlike Gov. Palin that will lose her air in about 3….2….1….

Lisa M   September 9th, 2008 1:30 pm ET

So did Bush now surrender?
Is the Iraq war over(I thought it was over a LONG time ago)?

Southerner   September 9th, 2008 1:30 pm ET

There is a big difference between the current strategy of drawing down troops AFTER the situation is stable and the cut-and-run strategy proposed by Obama.

Why is Bush drawing down troops? Because Anbar province, which had been a hotbed of terrorist activity earlier in the war, is now stable and has been turned over to Iraqi troops. That makes 11 out of 18 provinces that are now under the control of the Iraqi army and police.

If we had listened to Obama and 1) not had the surge, then 2) cut and run with no concern for the stability of Iraq, the most likely scenario is that Iraq would either be under the control of Al Qaeda or Iran.

Obama refuses to admit he was wrong. His Kool aid drinking followers will cling to any story he tells them, no matter how weak or far fetched.

McCain is the candidate with the knowledge, expertise and fortitude to be commander in chief. Obam doesn't even have the experience necessary to take over Palin's role as commander in chief of the Alaska National Guard.

Jerry   September 9th, 2008 1:30 pm ET

Obama is right that he will be better then MCSAME in the office I trust Obama over MCSAME and Palin

OBAMA/Biden 08
Hillary/Michelle 16

Open Your 3rd Eye   September 9th, 2008 1:30 pm ET

YOU DON'T HAVE TO BE A ROCKET SCIENTIST TO FIGURE OUT BUSH DID THIS TO HELP MCCAIN'S CHANCES.

ONCE AGAIN, THEY ARE PLAYING WITH THE AMERICAN PEOPLE'S COMMON SENSE.

DON'T BE NAIVE, THIS IS SO OBVIOUS.

BUSH NEVER, EVER SUPPORTED THE IDEA OF WITHDRAWAL-PERIOD.

THAT WAS OBAMA'S PLAN.

BUSH/MCCAIN ARE PANDERING.

arc, Lugano CH   September 9th, 2008 1:30 pm ET

Had the REPUBLICANS never waged an unecessary illegal war, then there would be no troops to drawdown and 4000+ lives would have been saved.

Thank you Republicans, McCain, Palin and 'Values' voters.

In 2008, there is nothing more despicable and lower than a Republican, except perhaps a child molester/murderer.

proud army and navy mom   September 9th, 2008 1:29 pm ET

The repugs are desparate again, because pit bull Palin is going down. They are using other names, including mine to post because they can find any people to agree with their lies and deceit.

Thank you Obama/Biden calling out the repugs lies.

Mike   September 9th, 2008 1:27 pm ET

Maybe in four years after the violence gets ramped up again in Iraq and another 4,000 soldiers die will the American people finally get it.

AngieS   September 9th, 2008 1:27 pm ET

Talk about a FLIP-FLOP!! First the Pentagon says it doesn't advise the removal of any troops, then 24 hours later the Pentagon advises the draw down of 8k troops by January. Next the p-resident says he doesn't plan on recalling any troops during his term, now he's bringing those 8k home. WHICH IS IT, PEOPLE?????

CM   September 9th, 2008 1:26 pm ET

I would be lukewarm too if the worst president in the history of the US started realizing that my plan was the right one and rebranded it as his own.

I mean come on, time horizon and not timetable? They're just playing on words because Obama got it right from the start.

No more dumb presidents. Elect the Harvard grad that chose to help people rather than the D student who got an east ride due to his family's military connections.

Bush is no longer running folks   September 9th, 2008 1:26 pm ET

President Bush is not on the ticket and John McCain is his own man, dispute that as you may we know better. I was going to vote for Hillary but that is no longer a possibility. She is not on the VP ticket, Obama's big mistake. I am going to vote for McCain/Palin. I really like her and I also feel safer with McCain. I do not feel like a traitor to Hillary – I feel that Hillary should not be endorsing Obama and asking us to. We never wanted him and I was distrubed at the treatment Hillary got from the dem. party and the media. It even turns me off more to hear that her and Bill are going to come out together again for Obama. Hillary and Palin are different, but Hillary is out of the picture and I truly believe since she is out – that the McCain/Palin ticket is the best and right ticket for the future of America.

SOUTHERN HOTTIE   September 9th, 2008 1:25 pm ET

Here they come: Obama haters who refuse to credit him for calling for troops withdrawal from Iraq in. . . 5 4 3 2 1. . . .

Lin   September 9th, 2008 1:25 pm ET

Obama is so not ready to be president, I was against the war at the start and I'm no fan of Bush but I have to admit that there is a light at the end of the tunnel and victory in Iraq is in sight . It looks like Iraq will be a democratic free country in the center of the middle east. What a mistake it would be to leave now prematurely with a divided Iraq split in three like Biden wanted. To be against the war when your not a US senator is one thing, but to be against the surge that is saving lives shows a big lack in judgement and knowledge in foreign and security policy.

Another Republican for Obama   September 9th, 2008 1:25 pm ET

Well look at that – Obama was right after all.

Shocker – anyone who thinks the idiots leading my party know what they are doing are just…stupid. And if you think McCain is anything different, well you are a Darwin case study. You get what you deserve – more taxes, more war, more torture, more religious radicals, more Constitutional violations, more lies, and more scandals. Palin is a joke of a candidate, and while people may like her looks, she is the epitome of condescention towards wualified women – and people are too dumb to notice.

Vote Obama '08 – '12 and force a moderate swing in my party back to our roots, and get rid of these radical Rovian morons. PLEASE.

Begrudgingly, Obama '08 – '12

facts are facts   September 9th, 2008 1:24 pm ET

If McCain and his floozy are elected and continue on the their holy war in Iraq all other nations with troops in Afghanistan will be withdrawing them. The world it seems is so much smarter than the American public on issue both domestic and abroad.

V from London   September 9th, 2008 1:24 pm ET

Once again Barack's judgement is proven correct. From new diplomatic efforts between israel and syria to rice going to libya to talk diplomacy to troop reduction in iraq to increased troops in the real war in afghanistan, everything Barack has wanted the administration has started to succomb to.

As is said in Europe: Only in America is there even a debate about a man like Barack being President.

Send him to Europe, you people are too ignorant to realize a great man when you see one.

and please, leave the educational reform to the guy with 2 ivy league degrees that understands the importance of a good education, rather than two people with barely enough academic credentials to get a job at fortune 500 company let alone the executive branch!

Fort Collins,Colorado   September 9th, 2008 1:23 pm ET

Maybe Bush should have had Obama as one of his advisers….Bush seems to be following Obama's lead. He did the same thing with Iran, now he's talking to them, that is what Obama felt should be done.
LILOWHISKEY DENVER , you haven't kept up have you….these are Obama policies…McCain wanted to stay in Iraq 100 years. McCain never had any strategy….what was there to adopt. He found a VP that is getting her 15 minutes of fame, and then we will have the election and Obama will win…and you will get to benefit from his achievements wil the rest of us.

ginger   September 9th, 2008 1:23 pm ET

Sen. Obama, you are right again. I cannot wait for you to move into the White House.

Community Organizers   September 9th, 2008 1:23 pm ET

Bush, McCain, & Sarah three birds of a feather destroying America together, he wants to release 8,000 troops because the surged worked, but what about the other 4,500 that had to be released in a box back home, and where is Osama why you didn't follow him to the cave he live in, just admit to the American People that this war shouldn't never had happened, the next time instead of using our innocent sons and daughters to fight in your uncause for wars send all the Republicans, Sex Offenders, & People thats on Death Row, whats wrong another book was realeased on all of your lies you are getting scared.

S. Shay   September 9th, 2008 1:23 pm ET

Thank you Senator Obama…it's the judgment folks, it's the JUDGMENT!!

Obama has been consistently right on Iraq, Iran, Afghanistan, economics, women's rights, upholding the Constitution, realizing that Americans want and need a change and doing something about it John Palin McBush has been consistently wrong on all of the above and on the final test of his judgment he chooses a running mate neither he nor the American people knows WHO IS CURRENTLY EYEBALLS DEEP IN AN ETHICS SCANDAL who has no experience in American politics and who every other story that comes out about her reveals her to be radical, scary and mean and we are supposed to now TRUST MCCAIN'S JUDGMENT?? Not in this lifetime. No way, now how, no Palin/McCain (and it's Palin/McCain because she is running his campaign, he doesn't even have the judgment to do that for himself.) NO THANKS!

former hillary supporter now for Obma   September 9th, 2008 1:22 pm ET

Sorry Johnny…she aint Hillary

ez   September 9th, 2008 1:22 pm ET

I think Mr. Obama and the democrats need to continue to talk about the issues; and not get involved in the petty political games the republicans and John McCain has been playing for the last eight years. We know that real change is to elect Obama/Biden and get rid of these republicans bums.

Republican voting for Obama/Biden 08

janine   September 9th, 2008 1:22 pm ET

“Only in Republican America would a black man with a law degree from Harvard, 12 years in politics, four years on the Senate Foreign Relations Committee and manager of one of the most impressively flawless and forward thinking presidential campaigns ever not be ready for the presidency while a white female evangelical with 19 months in national politics and a bachelors in journalism is considered ‘ready on day one’.”

Sick & Tired of Nobama   September 9th, 2008 1:22 pm ET

Hey Nobama, why don't you just shut up. There is no McCain – Bush strategy. McCain has not been running this country has he?? By the way, you are in the Senate and have done nothing, nada about this war so just shut up now.

Phil in KC   September 9th, 2008 1:21 pm ET

It was never about the terrorists. It has always been about Bush's private agenda.

maynard hopkins wi   September 9th, 2008 1:21 pm ET

this just goes to show you that something is a miff with Obama. he was ready to bail out some time ago, It was a waste of time and money……this guy is lacking something upstairs remember the hand over the heart then the lapel pin

And he wants to be president I DON'T THINK SO,,,,,,,

The Voice of Common Sense (Independent Voter - Charlotte, NC)   September 9th, 2008 1:21 pm ET

Common sense tells you that an overwhelming force (aka: surge) will suppress or overwhelm one that is not superior to itself as long as it exists or is in practice. That is why violence has gone down in Iraq, but that violence is simply suppressed waiting patiently to reemerge. As soon as the troops are pulled out, the violence will return because the lack of an overwhelming force will create a power vacuum that will be filled by those hungry for the control of Iraq.

Now, with that said, this darn war should have never been a war in the first place! It is an illegal conflict that defies international laws and even those of the United States itself!

This mess should have never been made! Shame on you Bush!

David   September 9th, 2008 1:21 pm ET

The Bush/McCain administration says Bin Laden is a huge threat to America, yet as Obama said, they have done nothing to go after or capture him. The only thing they seem interested in is Iraq, until now, when Bush showed slightly more interest in Afghanistan (Which Obama has been saying to do since the start of this campaign) …Its ridiculous how they use fear to sway voters. If you think Bush/McCain actually want to capture Bin Laden you are sadly mistaken, yet people keep giving them chances to get him. Without Bin Laden…they have no way to get votes.

LB   September 9th, 2008 1:21 pm ET

If you have children soon to be 18 you best pray McCain and Palin don't win or they may soon be in McCain's next war. If your planning for your kids to go to college you also had best not vote for McCain. Present college Federal tuition loans for students are running at 6.5% and then the parents will have to borrow the balance on a Parent-Plus loan at 8.5% because Bush and McCain didn't but a cap on what lenders can charge you now for student loans. Obama want to help kids get into college and help with the tuition. McCain doesn't care, he never attended college and he never had to worry about college tuitions for his kids. If I owned 7 houses I wouldn't have to worry either.

David, Silver Spring, MD   September 9th, 2008 1:21 pm ET

Bush is trying to say, "See, we're pulling troops out," in an attempt to blunt Obama's plan for organized troop withdrawal. But the fact remains that neither Bush nor McCain have any particular interest in getting us out of Iraq. Neither Bush nor McCain see the mistake in invading Iraq in the first place. Neither Bush nor McCain see any problem with continuing to spend $10 billion a month staying in Iraq while ignoring major military problems in Afghanistan and major economic problems here at home.

The question isn't whether Bush is or is not withdrawing troops, it's where his and McCain's heads are regarding Iraq. And all evidence suggests they're in the same place. And it's a very dark place, indeed.

Obama / Biden 08. The thinking person's ticket.

J UAN CARLOS   September 9th, 2008 1:21 pm ET

C ' M O N ——— M R ——-O B A M A———H A V I N G———L O O K S—-

L I K E———-Y O U ———-F O R G O T———S A Y——–A ——-S T E P–

I N——–T H E———R I G H T——–D I R E C T I O N

Truth Be Told   September 9th, 2008 1:21 pm ET

Do you get the feeling that, no matter which Republicans had run, the Obama campaign would have attempted to portray them as another Bush-Cheney administration?

Speaking of change, the Congressional Quarterly cites that, while Obama voted with his party 96% of the time, McCain voted in sync with the Republicans only 81% of the time.

Hillary 2012   September 9th, 2008 1:20 pm ET

Obama you were against for surge

Now surge is working

You didn’t pick Hillary

Now every thing against you

Gallup poll Mc Cain 49% Obama 44% ( 09-09-08)

Bush is Sarah Palin in Lipstick   September 9th, 2008 1:19 pm ET

No one has yet to answer the question of WHY DID WE GO TO IRAQ IN THE FIRST PLACE???????

voter   September 9th, 2008 1:19 pm ET

Hello! Hillary was also aganist timetables. Obama did not take this idea away from her. lets stop the fake bickering amoungst democrats and do what is right for the country which is voting Obama.

HIllarySupporter   September 9th, 2008 1:19 pm ET

People you Vote for Mccain you will see your kids drafted and sent to the war without end.

Republican for Obama   September 9th, 2008 1:18 pm ET

The hypocrisy is astounding!

In the 18 months Palin was governor Alaska received $750 million in earmarks for a state of 660,00 people, that's $1,136 per person.

In the 3.5 years since Obama has been a Senator for the state of Illinois he has requested (not received) $932 million in earmarks for a state of 12,831,970, that's $72 per person.

People need to wake up and do some unbiased research. This McCain/Palin ticket is out of control with their lies and misleading stories.

factcheck.org is your friend people, use it!

GIGI IN LA   September 9th, 2008 1:18 pm ET

A ——–C O M M U N I T Y——–O R G A N I Z E R ' S——O P I N I O N—–

baby mama   September 9th, 2008 1:18 pm ET

this loser was wrong on the surge……………and he is wrong for the future…………go on back to Chicago and take your loser Obamamites with you

Greg Pottstown, Pa.   September 9th, 2008 1:17 pm ET

Well If Obama has the plan then if he gets elected we should expect that all troops will be out of Iraq in the next 3-4 months. Remember two years ago when Pelosi told you that she would bring the troops home? Well all she got accomplished was to hold up a war spending bill.

McCain=War   September 9th, 2008 1:17 pm ET

Go ahead and vote for McCain/Palin because you like lipstick. You will be voting to seal america's doom.

Our sons and DAUGHTERS will be sent to invade Russia, Iran, and probably N. Korea…why do you think they were so pro-military and getting people to chant strange and misplaced patriotic phrases (similar to new recruits) at the republican convention? They want us to blindly follow them into more wars.

God help us all if you are stupid enough to vote republican.

Obama has always been right about the war. He is still right. To not see it is to be blind.

Tired of the Nonsense   September 9th, 2008 1:17 pm ET

Who is Sara Palin –

Before you swing/undecided cast your vote, here is something you better consider –

She was elected Alaska's governor a little over a year and a half ago. Her previous office was mayor of Wasilla, a small town outside Anchorage. She has ABSOLUTELY no foreign policy experience.

Palin is strongly anti-choice, opposing abortion even in the case of rape or incest.

She supported right-wing extremist Pat Buchanan for president in 2000.

Palin thinks creationism should be taught in public schools.

She's doesn't think humans are the cause of climate change.

She's solidly in line with John McCain's "Big Oil first" energy policy. She's pushed hard for more oil drilling and says renewables won't be ready for years. She also sued the Bush administration for listing polar bears as an endangered species—she was worried it would interfere with more oil drilling in Alaska.

How closely did John McCain vet this choice? He met Sarah Palin once at a meeting. They spoke a second time, when he called her about being vice-president. Then he offered her the position.

……and she's STILL under investigation for firing Public Safety Commissioner Walt Monegan when he refused to sack her ex-brother-in-law, a state trooper involved in a custody battle with her sister, abusing her position as governor.

With the economic and national security stakes this high….you would think a decision this important would have warranted a little more thought.

Do we really need a candidate who allows her personal views to interfere with her job?????

Obama/Biden 08

inat   September 9th, 2008 1:17 pm ET

Afghanistan is a NATO mission, not unilateral US mission. Over past couple years NATO coalition troop levels have increasesd by about 20,000 troops and Afghanistan has added about 70,000 troops. I think thats a pretty big surge and a good example of a non-unilateral "surge"

Dave, Illinois   September 9th, 2008 1:17 pm ET

Obama and the Dems just can't stand all the good news out of Iraq. The American people are seeing past them. McCain is way up in the polls and is closing the gap on the electoral map as well. The most telling poll I have seen on RCP's website is the congressional "generic" poll between the parties. The Republicans were down by 20 points at one time – now its only 5. Face it, Obamites, the adults have awakened and your empty suit is going down in flames.

Anonymous   September 9th, 2008 1:17 pm ET

I also think Palin should stop pointing every time she talks down to us. It's off-putting.

gary   September 9th, 2008 1:16 pm ET

NOW OBAMA WANTS TO KEEP BUSH'S TAX CUTS. WHAT A BIG JOKE. FFFFFFFFLLLLLLLIIIIIPPPPP FFLLLLOPPEER. THAT MEANS HE IS THE BIGGEST FLIP FLOPPER,AND ALL YOU O.B. SUPPORTERS ARE NOTHING BUT HATERS, LIKE HIS CHICAGO DIRTY TACTICS.

Rock and Roll relics... dinosaur rockers!   September 9th, 2008 1:16 pm ET

Hi, I'm the candidate of insipid timid platitudes and glittering generalities. I'm known by my friends as "red herring." And I'm here today to talk to you about how eeeeeeevil George Bush is, I mean John McCain.

I realize I sound like a mumbling, stumbling bad Huxtable impersonator, but really, I uh… err… uh… I… uh… Camille and the puddin' pops.

Now I know you may have concerns about CHANGING to socialism, especially since it's never worked anywhere it's ever been tried… ever. But really, I'll bet you'll find your new chains to be quite comfortable, once you've felt the alternative… a butt of a rifle in your gut for resisting to hand over your paycheck.

Remember, as a good socialist, it's best that we're all equal in our misery instead of the potential inequalities that may exist when people are free to do as they choose. Aren't you happy I saved you from all that? Now, about your womb-to-tomb care…

Anonymous   September 9th, 2008 1:16 pm ET

I wanted to post this on the "Bridge to Nowhere" thread, but it was closed.

Let it go, Gov. Congeniality. No one's buying it.

Do they really think she can sail by on this script for the next 57 days. It might be good enough to get her through the end of the day when she high-tails it back to the Klondike, but after her Charlie Gibson interview she's going to need fresh talking points.

What are the odds she never comes back from AK? They'll drop her from the campaign for personal reasons and put in the white male they always wanted.

This would accomplish two things: they'll say, "See, we wanted a woman, but the bad liberal media didn't want it." That's the same media they say was in the bag for Hillary Clinton.

Second, it will ensure another woman will not be taken seriously as a candidate for the next hundred years, cementing the white male hold on power.

NotFallingInLine.org   September 9th, 2008 1:16 pm ET

War, war, war, war!
War, war, war, war!
War, war, war, war!
War, war, war, war!
War, war, war, war!
War, war, war, war!

What's wrong with Obama, doesn't he know that Amreicans want WAR?!

Kool-Aid-Drinking   September 9th, 2008 1:16 pm ET

So the inexperience guy got it right.

Let's say it together.

Obama is right….McCain is asleep and wrong.

jay   September 9th, 2008 1:15 pm ET

Yes we can!

Obama/Biden 08

TAYO, NY   September 9th, 2008 1:15 pm ET

YES! BUSH McCAIN BAD JUDGMENT GOT US INTO THIS MESS CALLED IRAQ AND IT IS NOW LEFT FOR THE NEXT PRESIDENT TO TAKE CARE OF THE MESS.

IF McCAIN IS ELECTED, HE WILL PROBABLY ADD MORE TROOPS BECAUSE HE CERTAINLY BENEFITS FROM CONTINUATION OF THE WAR.

AMERICAN PEOPLE SHOULD NOT ALLOW THIS TO HAPPEN.

THE WAR NEED TO COME TO AN END OR ELSE THE IRAQI LEADERS WILL NOT SIT UP AND TAKE RESPONSIBILITY FOR THEMSELVES.

THE ONLY PERSON THAT IS CERTAIN TO DO THAT IS OBAMA.

THAT IS WHY WE HAVE TO ELECT HIM THE NEXT PRESIDENT.

John from VA   September 9th, 2008 1:15 pm ET

I love the alleged by partisan support that Senator Barack claims to have. However, even on the most relevant issue of today (National Security) he refuses to praise that the war in Iraq is drawing to a close.

You certainly sound more concerned about your campaign that you do the real issues. Good Luck in November, you will certainly need it.

McCain/Palin 2016

don   September 9th, 2008 1:15 pm ET

just think the u.s is toying in a wrong direction. this lady is lying pilin or what ever you call her, and the american people are happy about this,,,,,,,,,,, this is sick, i just feel sorry for the united states. i bet you guys will be the joke of the world if mcsame wins.
God help the u.s.a

Heather, Cleveland, OH   September 9th, 2008 1:15 pm ET

Dear John and Sarah,
Thanks, but no thanks. I'm going with someone with clear ideas on how to better improve our national security and restore our US military to it's former glory. Concentrate our troops where they belong and stop spreading them so thin in your wars for resources (OIL – you said it yourself) that Russia is laughing at our demands for them to leave Georgia (no, Sarah, the country of Georgia, not the state).

Love,
A USAF Vet from the Buckeye State
Now a proud member of Vets for Obama

OBAMA-LUKEWARM..?   September 9th, 2008 1:14 pm ET

When it comes to making real decision..Obama votes present and or

runs with cold feet……..the real choice come November 4, 2008 is:

::::::::::McCain/Palin:::::::::the real deal…………………………….!!!

Independent   September 9th, 2008 1:13 pm ET

How about your judgment Obama? You have none to prove!

NoGOP   September 9th, 2008 1:13 pm ET

We should just go ahead and vote right now, because no one is going to change their minds. We are all entrenched in, and influenced by, our own biases – so as the old saying goes… "you can't teach an old dog new tricks," we cannot change our minds.

Joe Regis   September 9th, 2008 1:11 pm ET

Common sense movement to end the war in Iraq, fix the economy and repair America image in the world.

Yes we can.

Obama/Biden/ 08/12.

proud army and navy mom   September 9th, 2008 1:11 pm ET

Dont hate Obama……Listen your campaign is over, sorry you lost your rock star staus so soon. Everyone knows you are unqualified to be POTUS when your only accomplishment is "Community Organizer".

It was a nice try the whole "Change" and "Hope" thing. however why dont you try again in 2016 when your resume doesnt resemble that of a college summer hire.

Thanks

Justin, ny   September 9th, 2008 1:11 pm ET

obama has been right all along – bush is only beginning to realize – but its too late. as an independent voter in NYC I can't WAIT for obama to take office so we can ACTUALLY go after the people that killed so many of my/our friends and loved ones. the bush administration has been a complete and utter disgrace.

who cares what you say   September 9th, 2008 1:09 pm ET

You wont be in office anyway

Bush is the Village Idiot   September 9th, 2008 1:09 pm ET

You have to be lukewarm when any information comes out of the Bush White House. Especially since his "brain" Karl-The-Snake-Rove is helping the McCain campaign right now.

So Barack is right, when the Village Idiot says one thing, you need to be lukewarm. And speaking of idiots, the country is about to elect another in John McSame and his mascot Pailin. More of the same old thing.

Obama/Biden 08

KiloWhiskey - Denver   September 9th, 2008 1:09 pm ET

What's the matter…thunder gone….poor Barack. His best strategy seems to be adopting McCain's.

Republicans Hate America   September 9th, 2008 1:08 pm ET

I want to know why this is not surrender when the republicans draw troops down. Obama once again is correct as always. you inbreeds stay with McPhony and Gidget i will vote for a real leader.

Hello!!!!   September 9th, 2008 1:08 pm ET

He means the policy he took from Hillary. Just like most of the policies he took from Hillary.

Bush is An Idiot   September 9th, 2008 1:06 pm ET

I would be lukewarm too, because the directives came from Bush, the WORST PRESIDENT IN MODERN HISTORY.

Enough.

Obama/Biden 08

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