September 9, 2008
Posted: 12:35 PM ET

From
Palin stands firm on her claim to declining the 'Bridge to Nowhere'.
Palin stands firm on her claim to declining the 'Bridge to Nowhere'.

LEBANON, Ohio (CNN) – Sarah Palin refuses to yield on her claim that she opposed the infamous Bridge to Nowhere earmark, despite charges by the Obama campaign that her assertion is a "lie."

"I told Congress thanks but no thanks for that Bridge to Nowhere," Palin said Tuesday in Lebanon, Ohio.

Earlier: Obama camp calls bridge claim a 'lie'

Though Palin recently came out against the completion of the Gravina Island Bridge, she initially supported the project as governor before it became a national symbol of wasteful pork barrel spending. In 2007, Palin’s office cancelled work on the bridge, but Alaska still kept the federal funds that were allocated for state transportation projects.

In her two years as governor, Alaska has requested nearly $750 million in earmarks, and in a Fairbanks newspaper column earlier this year, she wrote that federal monies, including earmarks, are “incredibly important” to the state. Palin also helped secure millions of dollars in federal money for her hometown of Wasilla while she was mayor.

Nevertheless, Palin told the outdoor audience in Ohio — many of whom came out in spite of the rain – that she was a champion of earmark reform in Alaska.


She then accused Barack Obama of using his role in the Senate to exploit the federal system.

“So as we reformed the abuses of earmarks in our state, our opponent was requesting nearly a billion dollars in earmarks as a senatorial privilege, as I was vetoing half a billion as an executive responsibility,” she said.

Palin said she and McCain “are ready to work together to end these corrupt practices once and for all in our Congress.”

Filed under: Sarah Palin


Female Voter   September 9th, 2008 12:53 pm ET

Come on CNN and crew where is article about "Ed Koch Decides To Back Obama Because of Palin?"

keeth   September 9th, 2008 12:53 pm ET

Just makin stuff up…

Caryn, Washington DC   September 9th, 2008 12:53 pm ET

A republican who lies…what a novel idea.

MIKE   September 9th, 2008 12:53 pm ET

WOW WHAT A GROUP OF LIARS, REFRESHING AND REFORMING LIES…DESPITE THE VIDEO EVIDENCE…ITS A SHAME PEOPLE LIE WITHOUT REMORSE

Unempressed   September 9th, 2008 12:53 pm ET

Palin requested $750 million in earmarks for 1/10 as many people that Obama requested $1 billion for!!

She requests 10x more per capita and is trying to say Obama is the spender?!?!?!

She's also pushing energy in Alaska – this will give more $$ to Alaska (conflict of interest???) and in the past returned $$ to citizens from energy… while at the same time requesting earmarks from other citizens?!?! CROOK!

Video Guy   September 9th, 2008 12:52 pm ET

When is Alaska going to give the money back? If it was not used for the bridge, they have no business keeping the money.

Connie   September 9th, 2008 12:52 pm ET

It is quite shameful to see the videos and hear her actually supporting the bridge and then when she is appointed "Governer" she does not support the bridge. So, if she says anything to get elected "Governor" in Alaska, will she just say anything to replace John McCain as "President" if they are elected. Palin claims she stopped corruption and brought down the abusers that helped to get her elected. It seems to me, she has a split personality disorder! Will the real Sarah Palin please stand up?????

slide-of-hand   September 9th, 2008 12:52 pm ET

do as i say not as i do…

whatever happened to integrity?

Houston, Texas   September 9th, 2008 12:52 pm ET

This women has no shame!!!!

This is what people hate about polotics. The Republicans always talk of morals and their Christian belief. When will their beliefs reflect in the way they conduct themselves.

Pat   September 9th, 2008 12:52 pm ET

CNN..Why do you only post mean and hate filled comments? It seems if the comments don't attack either party then they don't merrit posting. Just stirring the pot I suppose? So much hatred and finger pointing by people that don't want to learn the facts, but instead want to remain closeminded in everything. These same people believe every spam email is 100% factually and that no politician every manipulates words…so naive. Select any political ticker subject, look at the comments, most are ugly in content.

Phil, Ashburn, VA   September 9th, 2008 12:52 pm ET

Yeah, that is why you requested $186M so far this year. This womanis bad news.

Dustin   September 9th, 2008 12:52 pm ET

Liars. All of them, and the American people seem like they still haven't learned the lessons of the past 8 years. If someone keeps hitting you over and over, why would you continue to let them into your house? WHY!!!!

Gifty   September 9th, 2008 12:52 pm ET

To Obama: Change we can xerox

Go John/Sara -08

Hillary 012

SDunn   September 9th, 2008 12:51 pm ET

She's going to keep recycling that same speech over and over again until the debate. lol This is beyond crazy. I can't believe this, but maybe McCain thinks the more you tell the lie then magically it will become truth the more you repeat it????

Jennifer   September 9th, 2008 12:51 pm ET

How long are she and McCain going to be allowed to lie unchecked by the media or the people? They should be truthful and if they are not they should be held accountable.

Truth Be Told   September 9th, 2008 12:51 pm ET

To an objective observer, it appears that McCain and Palin practice what Obama and Biden preach.

Truth about Sarah Palin   September 9th, 2008 12:51 pm ET

Google Anne Kilkenny to learn the truth about Sarah Palin. What she says is backed up by the non-partisan factcheck website.

Penn Voter   September 9th, 2008 12:51 pm ET

Go Sara kick Obama's butt. You got him running. Expose him for what he is… a big phony.

Kevin Leo (Jonesboro, GA)   September 9th, 2008 12:51 pm ET

Okay, she is running on a "record of reform" but requested over 750 million in earmarks for a state of 600,000 in 2 years as governor and another 25 million as mayor for her town of less than 8,000.

Barack has sought 850 million (not quite the billion they keep throwing around!) for the state of Illinois, the 5th most populated state with almost 13 million in population.

Per capita comparison: Palin – $1,250 per Alaska resident, Barack – $66 per Illinoisresident

If McBush is serious about reform, he needs to work on his running mate first before he starts throwing stones accusations at everyone else!!!

Jean, CANADA   September 9th, 2008 12:51 pm ET

For the love of GOD…..please do not let Palin and the repubs steal this election!!!!!

She stood there face to face with those constituients in Ohio and LIED DIRECTLY TO THEIR FACES by saying she did not support the "Bridge to Nowhere". Please American people….open your eyes and see that this deciption by the repubilicans is the THE REAL DEAL!!!!

Please do your research and see for yourself!!!\

Ps CNN…….it's funny how the "national poll tracker" just "Re-appereared" on your website as Mccain supposedly gained an edge….I was looking for it a couple of days back and it was "No where to be found"??!!! Fancy that…..BARCK WAS AND STILL IS AHEAD!!!

OBAMA, 08,12 THE TRUTH.

Old Fart   September 9th, 2008 12:51 pm ET

Maybe she'll be able to request a few more trillion dollars from the Chinese.

Nick   September 9th, 2008 12:51 pm ET

Bald faced lies , she really is a republican , she has NO problem looking the American people straight in the eyes and lying right to our faces !! Wake up people , she is not what she says she is , the only thing she is trying to reform is her past record . it's already out there for you all to fact check .

demon_joe   September 9th, 2008 12:51 pm ET

"I told Congress thanks but no thanks for that Bridge to Nowhere," Palin said.

It would be easier if they just sent a tape recorded message to these pep rallies. It would be cheaper!

God if I hear her voice again I'll be sick!

Same ole lies!

Bravo to HEART for sending donations to Obama! ROCK ON!

Gifty   September 9th, 2008 12:50 pm ET

Go John/Sara 08

Hillary012 – my girl

sidney from NEW YORK   September 9th, 2008 12:50 pm ET

I WANT TO KNOW WHY THE MEDIA DOES NOT JUST FLAT OUT CALL IT WHAT IT IS .

A LIE A BIG FAT LIE
SHE AND MCAIN ARE TELLING LIE'S TO THE AMERICAN FOLKS

THE MEDIA IS HELPING THE MACAIN CAMP TO WIN THIS BUY NOT EXPOSING THE TRUTH.

Yasriel   September 9th, 2008 12:50 pm ET

The woman seems to be a pathological liar. I am getting scared day after as I continue to learn about this woman.
One, she is a religious extremist.
Two, she is been blindly followed by some folks
Three, she is a liar
Four, she's running from the Press but running for VP.

If you combine all the above points, it could get scarier if you remember Hitler was a liar too and had a large following.

Schneider (I) - CA   September 9th, 2008 12:50 pm ET

Bridge to Nowhere…sounds like the McCain/Palin economic policy

scott   September 9th, 2008 12:50 pm ET

Does she not know how it works. She WAS for the bridge initially. thats is a fact. so now she has to acknowledge that and explain the reasons if any not just keep saying THANKS BUT NO THANKS

Gene   September 9th, 2008 12:50 pm ET

Lies, Lies, and more Lies. When will the republicans finally be held accountable for their gross distortion of the truth? Palin is shown supporting the infamous bridge project in a video of a debate of Alaskan gubernatorial candidates and yet she claims otherwise? If this is the sort of candidate she is, what sort of president would she make, if she had to take over from McCain, a terrible one that's what.

Jackson Lee Wood   September 9th, 2008 12:50 pm ET

McCain and Palin will be good for this country; I do not want Opra or Stevie Crappin Wonder hanging around the white house;…

Ron   September 9th, 2008 12:50 pm ET

there are differences between earmarks for necessary works and pork barrel earmarks, that benefit only certain interest. if the Obama campaign and the news media, are so concerned with the earmarks she received, why don't they investigate who profited by them. this woman has done a tremendous job for her state and for the news media and the Obama campaign to go to such lengths (and they have to to find someone who dislikes her) to discredit her only shows the shallowness they possess.

Ilona Hussein Proud Canadian   September 9th, 2008 12:50 pm ET

THANK YOU CNN!!!!!!!!!!!

NOW PLEASE CONTINUE THE GOOD WORK, AND DIG DEEPER SO THAT YOU CAN "START REPORTING" THE NEWS!

Lulu, Texas   September 9th, 2008 12:50 pm ET

When are these adoring fans going to see her for the liar that she is? You know, it's really funny. Republicans railed against Obama's "inexperience" — now they have someone on their ticket that is REALLY inexperienced, definitely as far as foreign policy is concerned. They railed against Obama's "celebrity" — now they have someone who brings out the crowds to hear the same tired speech she gives over and over again. She really is an empty suit. She is everything they accused Obama of being, and more!

Ryan   September 9th, 2008 12:50 pm ET

Of course she stayed with it. They can't change the script now.

And keep on making the comparison to Obama's earmarks. His state has over 12 million people, yours has 750K, yet the earmark figures for him in 3 years are lower than Alasksa's for the 2 that you were governor.

No wonder Alaskans love her, she's making them a profit on their tax payments with the $ of pork/citizens.

Capt. Smash, Salt Lake City, Utah   September 9th, 2008 12:50 pm ET

The media are scared of Palin they wiil not go after her like they did Clinton about sniper fire.

KJ, GA   September 9th, 2008 12:50 pm ET

She is such a liar, why oh why is she popular!

America, get it together, we need to vote Obama/ Biden!

Dave C - NJ   September 9th, 2008 12:50 pm ET

…and to be fair, McCain never requested pork barrel funds. Obama did, yes.

However the issue is that Palin is LYING about it.

Just like she LIED about selling the jet on eBay for profit. It was removed from eBay and sold privately…for a loss.

SDunn   September 9th, 2008 12:49 pm ET

Omgosh why???? Why won't the sexist Repulicans allow this woman to speak her mind?????

Kate   September 9th, 2008 12:49 pm ET

The earmark on the Bridge to Nowhere was taken off by Congress at least 13 months before Palin even took office. She was in no position to make any executive decision on that issue. It doesn't matter what she says now.

Sick of the Stupidity   September 9th, 2008 12:49 pm ET

Was she speaking in tongues when she gave her speech of lies?

Tom   September 9th, 2008 12:49 pm ET

These folks are shameless.

Jack   September 9th, 2008 12:49 pm ET

Continuing to lie in blatant defiance of the facts….it's just insane what this country has come to entertain as acceptable behavior…and I'm a Republican. I really don't think that I can support this ticket given their recent behavior.

Ben   September 9th, 2008 12:49 pm ET

Why would anyone vote for this elitist, hyper-conservative bimbo??? Everything she does as an ulterior motive and she blatantly lies about everything…what a terrible person to have as our VP…and possibly president.

Reagan   September 9th, 2008 12:49 pm ET

When the finance cost's kept bloating, Palin bailed on the bridge. If you get an good faith estimate on building or repairs, you expect to pay something in the general amount as your quote. The bridge cost's sky-rocketed, so thank God, Sarah told them forget it.

I have been to the state of Alaska since Palin has been in office, and can honestly say thank you to Sara and the people who live there, she has done a remarkable job in office, and the state has never looked so beautiful, clean, and the economy is doing wonderful.

I know Sarah Palin can do wonders for America!

Steve   September 9th, 2008 12:49 pm ET

Is this the only sound bite she has? That, and 'lipstick'?

Tell us your stand on the issues. Tell us why you charged your own state per diem while staying at home. Tell us why your husband and daughters charged the state for traveling from Wasilla to Juneau.

Tell us why we need to believe a liar.

Obamacan/McCant   September 9th, 2008 12:49 pm ET

would you go to a doctor with several malpractice suits, who has lost more patients then any other doctor, who lied saying they graduated from Harvard but really got their diploma from an on line course? if the answer to that question is NO then why would you vote for McCain/Palin…who have over 59 lobbyist running their campaign, have been caught in numerous LIES, have voted against women, against Vets, against education, against clean energy, and want to make permanent the failed Bush tax plan that has put us at a 5 trillion dollar deficit, 6.1 unemployment, millions of lost homes, hundreds of thousands of lost jobs? but there are a few things that McCain/Palin are for…the war in Iraq (4,100 American lives, hundreds of thousands of Iraq civilians and Billions of dollars) and the bridge to no where ( and she kept the money)..a vote for McCain/Palin is like going to a Doctor of death…

Independent from FL   September 9th, 2008 12:49 pm ET

I do not agree with Palin's social issues but I'm more intrigued by her than I am with Biden. I was a Hilary supporter & after the primaries I was considering staying home for election but the more I learn about McCain & Palin, the more I see myself voting Republican for the first time. McCAin deserves the American people's vote, Obama to me is like a BIG commercial.

vet   September 9th, 2008 12:49 pm ET

liar….liar……liar……liar…….liar……..pants on fire

Palin is McCains hand puppet……….he controls her lies

The Obama team is in PANIC mode.   September 9th, 2008 12:49 pm ET

I love the smell of fear in the morning…

Obama is cooked folks, he's beginning to look older than McCain.

Hey Michelle.. are you still proud?

YESOBAMA   September 9th, 2008 12:49 pm ET

LIAR LIAR SKIRT ON FIRE.

You cant just make stuff up to look vice presidential.

We are tired of these lousy Republican creatures that think they can get away with lies. Bridge to Nowhere, Iraqi intelligence.

The Republicans have destroyed our economy and McCains would be more disastrous to the economy. just look at the details of what he is proposing.

Vote for Peace and properity. Vote Democrat.

This soccer mom can whip your hockey mom any day!!!   September 9th, 2008 12:49 pm ET

She is definitely a George W fan…when caught in lies…just continue to lie. How in the hell can someone who requested $750 million in earmarks now be a reformist. I guess she got that epiphany when she got the surprise phone call to be VP. GIVE ME A BREAK!!! This woman and her counterpart are one big joke!!!!!!

Will   September 9th, 2008 12:48 pm ET

So let me get this striaght: hiring lobbyists to get more earmarks, vocally approving of earmarks and supporting the worst earmarks, then changing your mind but keeping the money means you're a 'champion of earmark reform'?

That's not change we can believe in!

MHammon   September 9th, 2008 12:48 pm ET

Tell me again how she is qualified to run for the number spot besides her age. She is corrupt and a liar. Oh thats right she is a republican. I like how they wont bring her out from McCains shadow. The republican are afraid she will start speaking on her own and tell us that Iraq is a holy war. What a joke.

Joe PA   September 9th, 2008 12:48 pm ET

Even when she is caught in a lie she denies it. Sounds like more of the same to me.

Gracie   September 9th, 2008 12:48 pm ET

HA! HA! It's just like the co-captain to go down with the Titanic!!
I mean she can't even speak and read her cue cards at the same time. Did you see her keep looking down at her flash cards? Wow….

NOW she's holding on to her political plunder over the BRIDGE TO NOWHERE. By the way WHO SUPPORTS A BRIDGE GOING NOWHERE? Obviously, Gov. Palin does….

dana   September 9th, 2008 12:48 pm ET

I don't know how she can wake up in the morning and look at herself in the mirror.

James Bailey   September 9th, 2008 12:48 pm ET

Is Charles Gibson going to ask her these tough questions in the exclusive interview or will he softball her with "what's your favorite color?" Dig deeper into her record and maybe the American people will realize how scary this woman is. She thinks because no one knows who she is she can ignore parts of her past and lie about her record.

independent Mohammed   September 9th, 2008 12:48 pm ET

I really dont understand how anyone can just flat out lie about something. I was an independent until she was picked as a VP. for one, it was pure politics and you can never sell her as experinced for goodness sake she hasnt even finished her term as governor. 2, AN 18 year old in wisconsin, or michigan cant remember, became mayor of a small town, that really doesnt tell me much for experince. And for her to claim reform on wasteful spending yet her young doughter can claim thousands of dollers for trips with her mom to different national conventions and "STATE" buisness , REALLY WHAT IS THE KID DOING FOR ALASKA??

Linda Lu-Nordling   September 9th, 2008 12:48 pm ET

very nice meeting you so far, Gov. Sara Palin…are you really for real? do you really know what it means to be a hockey mom?

Quite honestly, i would really like Biden's mom to weigh in… afterall, she's the REAL "hockey mom" and then some…

Si Se Puede!!!

Dave C - NJ   September 9th, 2008 12:48 pm ET

She built a road to the bridge…look it up.

She was for it until it was already dead in congress…look it up.

She kept the money that was meant for it…look it up.

This woman is a joke. Wait until an unscripted interview….that's when we all get to hear the punchlines.

Steve   September 9th, 2008 12:48 pm ET

She is full of fluff. So is McCain. They are the perfect example that people will say anything to get into office. I just hope that America wises up and throws the Republicans on their face! It's time for the real change to occur! I'm tired of John McCain stealing all of Obama's views on issues and trying to make them his own. Can Nov.4th get here any sooner? I'm ready for Barack to take office.

This soccer mom can whip your hockey mom any day!!!   September 9th, 2008 12:48 pm ET

She is definitely a George W fan…when caught in lies…just continue to lie. How in the hell can someone who requested $750 million in earmarks now be a reformist. i guess she got that epiphany when she got the surprise phone call to be VP. GIVE ME A BREAK!!!

Helen   September 9th, 2008 12:48 pm ET

Re: McCain/Palin

If your trophy wife is rich enough and your trophy running mate is pretty enough who needs truth?

glittergirl   September 9th, 2008 12:48 pm ET

I don't think it's just the democrats calling her out on this lie – the media and everyone else who has vetted her for lazy McCain has researched this and it's clearly documented for the record. The democrats could take advantage of her serious case of denial if they are smart! It's obvious the McCain camp doesn't yet know how to best spin this so in the meantime Obama camp, don't let this lie go!!!

marie   September 9th, 2008 12:48 pm ET

She can stand firm all she wants. But she is on video in two different places saying she was for it (before she was against it).

Who is she trying to fool? Wisen up, America.

Dave in Houston   September 9th, 2008 12:48 pm ET

She took the money and didn't build the bridge! That's great stuff from the "Queen of Pork."

Ask Scott Richter the other meaning of that nickname ;)

Oh boy....   September 9th, 2008 12:48 pm ET

YOU TELL A LIE LONG ENOUGH MAYBE THEY WILL BELIEVE YOU. TOO MANY SOURCES HAVE DEBUNKED HER CLAIM AND SHE CONTINUES TO SAY IT ANYWAY. WOW.
THANKS BUT NO THANKS TO MCCAIN OR PALIN!!!!!!

Alex   September 9th, 2008 12:48 pm ET

You know I been following this election for months. And republican supporters don't really care about these things (lies, distortions). So whenever I read these blogs that mention these things, they don't really matter. The only thing that could sway voters away if palin or mccain do or say something extreme. Other then that, it is a very slow movement to obama or palin. The only movement will happen is the VP debate and presidential debate and thats it. Whatever changes will happen before Nov 4th is minimal, unless Obama goes after Mccain 10x harder than now.

Truth about Sarah Palin   September 9th, 2008 12:47 pm ET

While Mayor, City Hall was extensively remodeled and her office
redecorated more than once.

These are small numbers, but Wasilla is a very small city.

As an oil producer, the high price of oil has created a budget surplus
in Alaska. Rather than invest this surplus in technology that will
make us energy independent and increase efficiency, as Governor she
proposed distribution of this surplus to every individual in the state.

In this time of record state revenues and budget surpluses, she
recommended that the state borrow/bond for road projects, even while
she proposed distribution of surplus state revenues: spend today's
surplus, borrow for needs.

Texas Straight Talker   September 9th, 2008 12:47 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!

Greg, NY   September 9th, 2008 12:47 pm ET

So, keep lying to the people while the people keep eating it up. Such sad times for our country that this is even happening.

Before anyone accuses Obama of requesting earmarks, please realize that he isn't running on a platform of wanting to eliminate them. McCain and Palin are, all the while she has been requesting the most earmarks per citizen than any other state.

joe   September 9th, 2008 12:47 pm ET

I know she's lying, but I like what I hear; so I'm going to vote for her. BTW, who is her veep choice?

Vivian   September 9th, 2008 12:47 pm ET

God Bless You Sarah

Do not let the left wing try and bring you down to their level

You see, you are a reminder of what a woman should be, someone successful who does not need to abort every child past the second because it does not fit into your finances

You will be the true roll model for young girls again, as we had those like you 50 years ago, and not what we have today

Gary Gaudin   September 9th, 2008 12:47 pm ET

How can she claim she said no when 1) she first said yes and 2) she took the money regardless? More opposite talk from the republican spinmasters (up is down, black is white, in is out). Welcome to 1984.

Discusted   September 9th, 2008 12:47 pm ET

Once again the Republians have put up a bold face lier for national office and expect the American voter to turn a blind eye to their lies. Shame on McCain for folding to the conservative rightwing religious zelots in the party to pick this dispicable person for VP.

BJames   September 9th, 2008 12:47 pm ET

What's the big surprise? Do you expect her to deviate from here script? She's been getting coached up on these one-liners since she was tabbed for VP. She shouldn't be expected to speak off the cuff. She's been giving the same speech since the convention and noone calls her out on it. Get some new material Ms. Palin. Particularly in light of the fact that most of what you're saying has been discredited.

Joe (Ex-Republican)   September 9th, 2008 12:46 pm ET

What a Liar!!!

Matt from PA   September 9th, 2008 12:46 pm ET

What a joke, it seems that truth and record mean very little to the mccain campain.

Broad street buddy   September 9th, 2008 12:46 pm ET

She is a liar!

Heather, Cleveland, OH   September 9th, 2008 12:46 pm ET

Oh, and thank you to CNN Political Producer, Peter Hambly, who was brave enough to report this story in an accurate, non-partisan, clear and concise manner. It's nice to know that, despite McCain campaign media strongarm tactics of: "Our candidate won't appear on your programs, CNN, unless you tow our line for us", Mr. Hambly came out with this story.

Well done!

BR   September 9th, 2008 12:46 pm ET

And we chose these liars as our leaders. What a shame.

Will H.   September 9th, 2008 12:46 pm ET

Is she trying to say that Sen. Obama is a corrupt politician?! Wow, that is rich, especially considering she hired a lobbyist to secure earmarks which amounted to highest dollar amount per capita of ANY state. Obama represents Illinois, a substantially more densely populated state, of course the numbers are going to be larger. Champion of pork barrel reform my behind!!

Anne E.   September 9th, 2008 12:46 pm ET

No "maverick" here.

Debbie, Wisconsin   September 9th, 2008 12:46 pm ET

John McCain was a prisoner in Vietnam. So was Gary Glitter, and I'm not voting for him either.

I loved Hillary and Palin is no Hillary. Hillary took care of her chid even though she was the wife of the President. It seems to me that Palin's daughters take care of the younger children.

Sorry, Sarah is not good enough for V.P.

jack kern   September 9th, 2008 12:46 pm ET

She's got a lot of these skeletons in closet, and just like OJ if you keep hitting the deny, deny, deny button its amazing how many people will actually believe you.

I still can't get over how unqualified she is. Common sense.

Sal   September 9th, 2008 12:45 pm ET

Hypocrites and liars. she's another right wing pawn. the Iraq war is a "task from God", did you hear that one yet? bombing another country is a task from God. i think terrorists on 9/11 had the same mentality.

Obama in '08 all the way!

Trever   September 9th, 2008 12:45 pm ET

Palin IS the bridge to nowhere!

Deborah   September 9th, 2008 12:45 pm ET

Sarah Palin is the Real Deal!

Obama is showing how desperate he is by trying to make this into a LIE!

Better watch out Obama, those of us that have considered voting for you can name all the BIG FAT LIE"S you have been caught in so far,

Which makes you the

LIAR, LIAR TRAINING PANTS ON FIRE!

McCain/Palin-08-In a Landslide!

jim hawkins   September 9th, 2008 12:45 pm ET

You should clean out your own house Palin before you
try to take care of our nation !!!

tornado1972   September 9th, 2008 12:45 pm ET

She will continue to lie until you the media do your job

Jenny, Rio Vista, CA   September 9th, 2008 12:45 pm ET

Palin doesn't have anything else to say. The speech writer didn't go on the stump with her so she has to keep repeating what she has said for the past 10 days.

She's a republican so the truth is of no concern.

Joe   September 9th, 2008 12:45 pm ET

I've never seen such blatant lying coming out of a candidate since Bush.

Roger Cyr   September 9th, 2008 12:45 pm ET

No one should be surprised by her lies; this is just the beginning of knowing more about the news media goddss

JN   September 9th, 2008 12:45 pm ET

Oh yeah Sarah and by the way, Barack's earmarks were over a long period of time..Yours were lest than 2 years. Please explain to us how you can leave Alaska with 22 million dollars in debt when Alaska wasn't in debt when you took over…NOT EVEN READY ON DAY 1

Scary thought   September 9th, 2008 12:45 pm ET

"Where books are burned (banned), human beings are destined to be burned too."……….

Chut Pata   September 9th, 2008 12:45 pm ET

For those who thought only Bill Clinton could look in the camera and lie. Meet Sarah Palin. She can lie in the camera and the crowd, and then insist on it, and then go ahead tell another lie.

Maybe Bill Clinton can learn a lesson or two from Miss Congeniality.

Larry   September 9th, 2008 12:45 pm ET

It is truly amazing. Looks like truth was the first casualty of this campaign.

Pamela   September 9th, 2008 12:45 pm ET

Typical Republican response to bank on the ignorance of the majority of the American public. Worked very well for George Bush!!

Debby   September 9th, 2008 12:45 pm ET

Okay CNN where is this Fairbanks article or should we just take your word on it. As Governor I read she hasn't hasn't had any earmarks for her state and I have read this in various places on the net.

John   September 9th, 2008 12:44 pm ET

McCain and Palin are shameless. We got rid of the democrats in 2000 when we had a good economy, surplus and peace. Now after 8 years of disaster we are going to give the GOP 4 more years. Americans will the laughing stock of the world

Speak The Truth   September 9th, 2008 12:44 pm ET

I am one of those "undecided" voters. The reason I am undecided is I dont know who to believe. But what I cant stand is an outright lie. Why would you lie to people who have faith in you, and turn around and accuse your opponent of doing something you clearly do and support? Just Speak the Truth, and let us decide if your ready to lead us or not.

JusLaugh   September 9th, 2008 12:44 pm ET

Now that's REAL change! Republicans are going from an idiot (Bush) and a warmonger (Cheney) to a cheat and a liar. Niiiiice.

McCain=cheat
Palin=liar

Just because you keep saying it does NOT make it true. Repeat a lie reapeat a lie repeat a lie and eventually people will believe it…sounds like the last 8 years to me.

Once a cheat and/or a liar, always a cheat and a liar.

Oh and one more thing   September 9th, 2008 12:44 pm ET

And when is someone in the MSM going to start hammering Palin and McCain about the lies??

Obama claimed $311 million in earmarks last year, none this year. That's a far cry the $1 billion that the Repubs keep lying about.

Nicole In NE   September 9th, 2008 12:44 pm ET

I guess the American people love a person who can deceive them over, and over and over…..

Thanks for nothing! You gave us Bush twice and now her….

PA Independent   September 9th, 2008 12:44 pm ET

That's the way to do it. Get caught red-handed in a lie so you just keep pounding away at it, repeating and repeating it until people actually believe it's true. Like Hitler's Big Lie rants against the Jews. Like WMD's in Iraq. Like Saddam's involvement in 9/11.

Dubya Bush must be bursting with pride – after all, imitation is the sincerest form of flattery!

alan j baer   September 9th, 2008 12:44 pm ET

lies lies lies

Scary thought   September 9th, 2008 12:44 pm ET

"Any time someone goes to the library and says, 'I want to ban books,' and the librarian says 'no,' and she threatens to fire them — that's scary," he said.

That just reminds me of Nazis burning books in 1933. They burnt everything un-German. Will palin burn everything that is un Christian? Scary Scary thought.

I'd go for Obama any day though he is not the one I prefer

MikeH   September 9th, 2008 12:44 pm ET

And she's a liar for it.

Read the record folks. GO OUT AND RESEARCH THE RECORD!

"If you tell a lie long enough people will start to believe it" – Joeseph Goebbles, Adolph Hitler's Minister of Propaganda.

So the Republican party is now resorting to NAZI propaganda tactics.

The question now is, will CNN become an arm of of the Republican Propaganda Ministry?

USAF Staff Sergeant   September 9th, 2008 12:44 pm ET

Maybe if you keep saying it, it becomes true….

I'm a multi millionaire…
I'm a multi millionaire…
I'm a multi millionaire…
I'm a multi millionaire…
I'm a multi millionaire…

Ugh… I guess it doesn't work… I'm not a multi millionaire….

I'm so tired of Palin and her lies.

McCain + Sarah = empty suits   September 9th, 2008 12:44 pm ET

What a liar even when caught on tape.
Typical Republican hypocrisy.
Fools being led to the slaughter house, dont think for yourselves,
Vote for fake marvericks.

More!   September 9th, 2008 12:44 pm ET

I think that's the only line the McCain camp fed her so she just has to say it over and over again. I mean, if you say it enough times, it's fact, right?

RW   September 9th, 2008 12:44 pm ET

She was O.K. for a while but she's starting to sound a little old
and mousey now.
She need to change that broken record.

Brian Wilson   September 9th, 2008 12:44 pm ET

So she vetoed half a million in earmarks while Obama pressed for a billion in earmarks. I think that's pretty clear. Just another example of the media trying to smear Palin.

Justin, ny   September 9th, 2008 12:44 pm ET

WHEN WILL SHE BE HELD ACCOUNTABLE FOR HER CONSTANT LIES?!?!?!?!?!

Mikey   September 9th, 2008 12:44 pm ET

Sarah Barracuda: "And if the real thing don't do the trick, you'd better think up something quick."

Seems what she is best at is lying repeatedly, over and over, ad nasium. I hope the majority of Americans come to realize that her persona is pure myth, she is totally unqualified for the position, and many of her views are extreme.

Jeff G   September 9th, 2008 12:44 pm ET

She also lied when she she said that she fired her chef. In fact she was merely transferred. Instead Palin asked the taxpayers to pay for the food she and her family ate at home. She also charged the people of Alaska for travel expenses for nights she stayed at home. Some reformer.

Brien   September 9th, 2008 12:43 pm ET

Thats right, just keep telling the same lie, eventually the public believes anything if you just tell them its the truth over, and over, and over! OH, and why is she allowed to make the bulldog/lipstick joke!? If a man would have made that joke it would have been shouted down for weeks. Reverse Sexism!!!

People make no sense   September 9th, 2008 12:43 pm ET

If you lie loud enough stupid people will believe it!

laurence   September 9th, 2008 12:43 pm ET

For the love of money she and those who have been blinded by evil (republican party) will do and say anything that does not represent anything of Christ! I really do believe that even if the Lord Himself were to come down out of the sky and tell them this woman and John McCain are as its been proven to be liars, they would just as well burn in hell rather than support a black man who has s how himself to at least be a hole lot better for this country then these two swindlers. So that's what an evangelical is? A political bigot and a religious racist!

MCcain is a Liar and Palin is Dick Cheney with Lipstick   September 9th, 2008 12:43 pm ET

More and More Lies from the Republicans how can you he agianst earmarks and wastful spending if YOu request earmarks and paid lobbyist to get that money for you. More and More lies from the Republicans everyday. Obama Biden is the clear choice in this election

Anonymous   September 9th, 2008 12:43 pm ET

So the party in power for the last eight years is the party of change.

The GOP is a champion of women's rights; the Dems are sexist.

GOP = reform; Dems = corruption.

GOP is anti-lobbyist; Dems are loaded with them.

GOP takes the high road in campaigns; Dems are negative.

A 20-month gov. of Alaska, with a BA in Journalism, and experience as Miss Congeniality is highly qualified; a man with a Harvard law degree and a former constitutional law professor and state legislator and US senator is unqualified.

Up is down; black is white.

Ralph R. Garcia   September 9th, 2008 12:43 pm ET

You can't have it both ways Ms Palin. Keep trying tho. Soon it'll backfire.

Deb, Allentown, PA   September 9th, 2008 12:43 pm ET

Lies and smears and misrepresentations, oh my!

(Think Wizard of Oz for the cadence on that.)

sophia nyc   September 9th, 2008 12:43 pm ET

Palin's fundamentalist conservative ideology will destroy this country.

shelly from TX   September 9th, 2008 12:43 pm ET

OMG

she's actually insane

Scott Tucson   September 9th, 2008 12:43 pm ET

Is Obama going to stick to his claim that he's not a Muslim after his slip of the tongue to George Stephanopoulos on Sunday??

S. Boatman   September 9th, 2008 12:43 pm ET

The Facts Are Out For The World To See Palin! You Are Telling Lies To Everyone Everywhere You Go! Why Not Take A Few Questions From The Press? . . . I Thought So! . . . This Is Why Your Nickname Has Been Changed From Baracuda To . . . Spit And Run Palin!

A Boston   September 9th, 2008 12:43 pm ET

Not just the Obama Campain but FactCheck.org Says you're a LIER!
You'll say anything for the White House but I'm not stupid enough to not do my own research. You're SCARY!

Obama/Biden 08

Patrick Henry, Fort Myers   September 9th, 2008 12:42 pm ET

The Democrats may parse hairs on events prior to 2007..but this won't change the facts…and the fact is the bridge was nixed–and Palin is the one who nix'd it.

What small town mayor doesn't fight like hell for federal funds? Particularly, when you're trying to keep up the infrastructure and improve the quality of life for a town with a tax base the size of Wasilla.

Let's get beyond this bifurcation in reality—and hear a little of Obama lands response to claims that: increased education funding will be tied to even more federal strings–rather than empowering local school boards–more controls and mandates will be added that will likely be underfunded–as usual.

Rudy NYC   September 9th, 2008 12:42 pm ET

"In her two years as governor, Alaska has requested nearly $750 million in earmarks, and in a Fairbanks newspaper column earlier this year, she wrote that federal monies, including earmarks, are “incredibly important” to the state. Palin also helped secure millions of dollars in federal money for her hometown of Wasilla while she was mayor."

"She then accused Barack Obama of using his role in the Senate to exploit the federal system."

She left that town 24 million in debt over the course of 6 years, which I find extraordinary for a town of less than 7000. All of the truth about this right-wing extremist will come to light.

She made the "conservative base" happy. That is the same demographic that approves of George W. Bush.

Kim, Charlotte, NC   September 9th, 2008 12:42 pm ET

There are those who put their careers ahead of their children.
And then there are those (Obama/Biden) who put the future of their children ahead of their careers.

Obama-Biden 2008.

Leslie   September 9th, 2008 12:42 pm ET

another Bush in the making………….

brian   September 9th, 2008 12:42 pm ET

More lies from the Palin camp. She thinks because she's yoing and pretty she can get away with smiling and winking through every bold-faced lie to the American people, but once the crush on caribou barbie wears off, she'll be going down.

Alicia, TX   September 9th, 2008 12:42 pm ET

You've got my vote!

Go get them! Sarah Palin is an excellent choice!

Sarah Palin for President is in her future! And, as a college educated hispanic republican woman, I'm behind you this November 2008!

McCain/Palin '08!!!

Anonymous   September 9th, 2008 12:42 pm ET

It would be REEEEALLLLY nice if she would take some direct questions on this and be afforded the opportunity to explain her position.

OBAMA SUPPORTER IN IOWA   September 9th, 2008 12:42 pm ET

This is the scariest woman I've ever encountered. Not only does she believe she is ready to lead the free world. She believes she didn't support the "bridge to nowhere" when she obviously did. Can you say Pathological liar?

Mike Easter   September 9th, 2008 12:42 pm ET

Sarah Pallin obviously belongs to that segment of the population that believes that if you repeat a lie enough times, it eventually becomes the truth.

G man from the big apple   September 9th, 2008 12:42 pm ET

Ms barracuda is a liar. So much for the Sexist claim when it is clear that you were not vetted by the straight junk campaign. I now see why Campbell Brown had all that Venom you are setting legitimate female politicians back by your reckless lies and smear

Republicans Hate America   September 9th, 2008 12:42 pm ET

why did you keep the money then?

Unshrub   September 9th, 2008 12:42 pm ET

She believes in the old GOP adage, "if you keep telling people something long enough they will start to believe it, regardless if it’s true." She obviously thinks it’s ok to shoplift. They keep playing the song, "Barracuda" when she has been asked not to by the owners of the song. That is stealing; it is no different then if you steal the record in a store. Is this they type of people you want in the White House.

Farrell, Houston, Tx   September 9th, 2008 12:42 pm ET

Democrats have no need to fear Palin, she will self destruct. The more Palin lies the more she has to lie. Palin will self destruct.

Moderate Republican for Obama   September 9th, 2008 12:42 pm ET

Palin is no different from Bush…flip-flopping and lying all over the place. What's even more worrisome is that the "more of the same" argument that the Obama-Biden camp are trying to stick to McCain, I think is actually more applicable to Palin, who, if McCain is elected President (God forbid) would be a heartbeat from the Presidency will likely continue if not advance the blind and hurtful neo-conservative agenda for America.

I don't know what Obama can do to dampen the influence of Palin, but he and his people have got to figure something out. I just cannot take 4 more years of this mess!

Ralph R. Garcia   September 9th, 2008 12:42 pm ET

You can't have it both ways Ms Palin. Keep trying tho. Soon it'll get shuved down your throat.

MIKE J.   September 9th, 2008 12:42 pm ET

SHE IS SCARY because of her lack on education and qualification, she will be a PUPPET for the extreme conservative Republican Party, JUST LIKE GEORGE BUSH!!

If women don't see it, then the rest of us do and we need to stop it?

Howdy   September 9th, 2008 12:42 pm ET

How can she claim to be a champion of earmark reform when she kept all that money for her state? She's lying with a straight face to all of us. She charged her state money for nights spent at her own home! People are so enamored by her good looks (men mostly), they can't see the truth! She doesn't want our children educated in schools about sex education! Come on, you see how well that worked!

mike   September 9th, 2008 12:42 pm ET

A governor "only requests" money from the government. Obama got almost a billion dollars in pork barrell/ear marks for Illinois in his extremely short time in the Senate. It comes to about one million dollars for each day he is in the Senate. He wasted tax payer dollars and Governor Palin only requested dollars. She had no vote on the money.

NORA, FLORIDA   September 9th, 2008 12:42 pm ET

Well if Palin and the group kept the money, it is the same thing. She wasted money. CASE CLOSED!!!

Heather, Cleveland, OH   September 9th, 2008 12:42 pm ET

She didn't say "Thanks, but no thanks". She said, "Thanks" and kept the earmark money. Even if she did change her mind on that bridge, she kept the money. That's the real point here.

kathy   September 9th, 2008 12:41 pm ET

Why would she say anything else but…it was scripted for her…to lie…more of the McSame.

Republicans Hate America   September 9th, 2008 12:41 pm ET

you repeat a lie enough times eventually the inbreeding rednecks will believe it. the rest of us call you out you phony.

JD   September 9th, 2008 12:41 pm ET

Google this!! Washington Post . Palin Billed State for Nights Spent at Home
Reform ha right!!!!!

Vote Obama/Biden08

April Garlow   September 9th, 2008 12:41 pm ET

Put her record of earmarks up against Joe Biden, see who is more responsible.How abour the fact that with the Democrats holding the purse strings,- the National deficit has doubled in the last year. Obama is running scared.He knows that we are tired of business as
usual for the past 8 years, in fact we are tired of business as usual
for the past 200 years.No more exclusive boys club at the whitehouse,
no more bowling alley versus basketball court, a real person focused
on real issues that face the people living in America–that is Sarah
Palin.

JN   September 9th, 2008 12:41 pm ET

Really Palin??? How about all your earmarks? You wish you had all these responsibilites. Where did you find the time to do all this? In between firing everyone you believed to be against you? Go back to Alaska. How's that new stadium and road to nowhere doing? I forget, we can't ask you questions right? Hey nice gaffe about Fannie. You sure are ready on day one!!! NOT!!!!!!!

JDM   September 9th, 2008 12:41 pm ET

Sounds like Bush II. Never say you made a mistake.
Even when everyone know you did.
And they kept the money and spent it?
WOW. Reformer?

Martin Agnew   September 9th, 2008 12:41 pm ET

The bridge to nowhere would likely have sparked new development and opportunity in the newly connected lands, does she really want credit for killing it?

Whiskey Tango Foxtrot   September 9th, 2008 12:41 pm ET

Lie, lie, lie until someone believes you seems to be the M/O of the GOP.
We KNOW that the bridge was funded by the federal government and Palin kept the money for her state..
We KNOW that Sarah "Pig In Lipstick" Palin was for the Bridge before she changed her tune.
We KNOW that she continued to build the road to nowhere even after the bridge was canceled.
We KNOW that Alaska receives more money in earmarks per capita than any other state.
Disputing these facts is moronic.

Kansas   September 9th, 2008 12:41 pm ET

SHE IS A LIAR

A LIAR

A LIAR

A LIAR

Donna   September 9th, 2008 12:41 pm ET

the "half billion" was two per cent of the state budget. Is that all the "wasteful spending" she could find?

The fact is that, per capita, Alaska is the largest beneficiary by many times of ear marks and pork. The McCain campaign is deliberately misleading voters.

I am troubled that CNN will not give more play to this "reformer's" acceptance of a daily per diem for living in her own home. Or her claim that she "fired" the governor's chef to save money when she simply transferred the chef to another position.

Jo   September 9th, 2008 12:41 pm ET

wait a minute….. is she actually accusing Sen. Obama of being corrupt??? She's nutty.

Vomitous Lies   September 9th, 2008 12:41 pm ET

Folks,

Please forward this article to ALL your friends who may be delusional
and leaning towards a McCain/Palin ticket!!!!

CNN Please post!

Independent for Obama   September 9th, 2008 12:41 pm ET

I admire her guts, but don't hide the details. You initially were FOR the bridge to nowhere. Let's not ignore that very real fact.

Although I will vote for Obama in Nov, I realy don't see this country recovering fully under either McCain or Obama, although I believe that Obama will give us the best chance to get better as a nation.

Lou Dobbs for president in 2012.

Woman from Texas   September 9th, 2008 12:40 pm ET

PUH-LEEEZE. She didn't even put a stop to it! Read the latest Wall Street Journal. It was stopped BEFORE she took office in 2005. But she sure did KEEP the $$$!!!

-Palin is McFailin'

bij   September 9th, 2008 12:40 pm ET

She's like a robot that needs to be reprogrammed….if u take out the "bridge to no where and "putting" the jet on ebay" there's nothing left to the speech!

Nate   September 9th, 2008 12:40 pm ET

because she doesn't have any other talking pts, what a loser!

Helene   September 9th, 2008 12:40 pm ET

This is a LIE and it is documented. I am a research librarian and I have done my homework for my patrons. It is a lie.

ANGIE   September 9th, 2008 12:40 pm ET

This woman is a fraud and a liar!! no mccain no palin no way no how i cant wait until all the dirt comes out on her cnn when are you gonna report how she took TAXPAYERS MONEY AND MADE TAXPAYERS PAY FOR HER AND HER HUSBANDS AND CHILDRENS PERSONAL VACATIONS PERSONAL THINGS ETC!

RG, Tampa, FL   September 9th, 2008 12:40 pm ET

"I oppose things once they become unpopular, that way I'm always on the "right" side. Oh, but then I kept the money and wasted it elsewhere."

CNN Never Posts My Comments   September 9th, 2008 12:40 pm ET

I'm so tired of this "Thanks, but no thanks" mantra on her Bridge to Nowhere claim.

Even if she did change her mind on that bridge, which she wisely may have done, she STILL kept the money for the bridge. Then, she builds the road leading to the Bridge to Nowhere with that money. That says "Dead End" to me.

Lee-- Dallas, TX   September 9th, 2008 12:40 pm ET

The Rethuglican party is the party of lies, fears, and smears. As proof please review the last eight (8) years and the current talking points and McCainPalin.

They don't talk about the issues becuase they are out of sync with the average American.

PD   September 9th, 2008 12:39 pm ET

What a sleazy campaign. All about personalities, not issues… and now they think they can just LIE without repercussions. WE SHOULD ALL HAVE ZERO RESPECT FOR THIS KIND OF BLATANT LYING. This is what we want in a leader???

Rob   September 9th, 2008 12:39 pm ET

Give her a lie- detector test…..she'll fail it

Breck   September 9th, 2008 12:39 pm ET

Who does she think she's fooling? The facts are already out there, the cat is out of the box.

Breck   September 9th, 2008 12:38 pm ET

Lol, who does she think she is kidding? The record is clear.

S. Boatman   September 9th, 2008 12:38 pm ET

You Are A Liar Palin! We Already Know It! Repeating A Lie Doesnt Make It True!

From Virginia   September 9th, 2008 12:37 pm ET

I think supporting palin shows how narrowminded Americans are

Independent Voter for Obama!   September 9th, 2008 12:37 pm ET

Hey look I found the truth!

James   September 9th, 2008 12:37 pm ET

All I can say is "They are all crooks!"! Expecially those who deny it, they are the worst! Crooks! Crooks! Crooks!

People make no sense   September 9th, 2008 12:37 pm ET

change in her pocket that you can believe in:

ANCHORAGE – Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin has billed taxpayers for 312 nights spent in her own home during her first 19 months in office, charging a "per diem" allowance intended to cover meals and incidental expenses while traveling on state business.

The governor also has charged the state for travel expenses to take her children on official out-of-town missions. And her husband, Todd, has billed the state for expenses and a daily allowance for trips he makes on official business for his wife.

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