September 15, 2008
Posted: 08:11 PM ET

From
Powell, a Republican, has said he may not back the GOP pick this cycle.
Powell, a Republican, has said he may not back the GOP pick this cycle.

(CNN) — Former Bush Secretary of State Colin Powell said Monday that he has not yet decided which candidate to back in this year’s presidential race.

The election of an African-American president “would be electrifying,” Powell told a George Washington University audience, “but at the same time [I have to] make a judgment here on which would be best for America.

“I have been watching both individuals, I know them both extremely well, and I have not decided who I am going to vote for. And I'm interested to see what the debates are going to be like because we have to get off of this ‘lipstick on a pig’ stuff and get into issues,” he said.

Powell's full comments will air on “The Next President: A World of Challenges” this Saturday night at 9pm ET and again Sunday at 2pm ET.

Last month, as the retired general’s office denied a report that he had decided to publicly back Barack Obama at the Democratic National Convention, several sources told CNN’s John King that Powell was still undecided. “As always, he is holding his cards close and waiting for more information," one adviser close to Powell told CNN’s John King.

Earlier this year, Powell told CNN’s Wolf Blitzer that he was weighing an endorsement of a Democrat or independent candidate. “I am keeping my options open at the moment,” said Powell.

“I have voted for members of both parties in the course of my adult life. And as I said earlier, I will vote for the candidate I think can do the best job for America, whether that candidate is a Republican, a Democrat, or an independent,” he added.

Powell also offered praise for Obama, calling him an “exciting person on the political stage.

“He has energized a lot of people in America,” said Powell, who briefly weighed his own run for the White House in the mid-1990s. “He has energized a lot of people around the world. And so I think he is worth listening to and seeing what he stands for.”

Last month, a Powell adviser told CNN that "he likes and admires John McCain, and that would be a factor in anything he does if he decides to get more involved."

Another source close to Powell said that he has known McCain for more than three decades “and likes him, and is looking for a reason to vote for him. He hasn't found it yet."

Filed under: Barack Obama • Colin Powell • Extra • John McCain


Philip   September 15th, 2008 5:47 pm ET

Powell needs to understand what a leader does (i.e., lead). It isn't waiting until the race is won and then jump in, to pick the winner! Come on General, Lead!

Johanna not voting GOP   September 15th, 2008 5:46 pm ET

How can a great man and a great mind be undecided. I'm not buying it anymore. Come on Powell, get on the Obama train!!!

mark   September 15th, 2008 5:46 pm ET

Your polls are underestimating the black vote and the hispanic vote which is enough to put obama on top in November. I just don't understand how you've interviewed one thousand people out of three hundred million and say McCain is ahead in popular vote. This is nothing but tricks to sway voters and play on their mind.

Republican for Obama   September 15th, 2008 5:46 pm ET

I know in Powell's heart he knows Obama is the best choice to get our country out of this colossal mess - with the war and with the economy. I know that in my heart.

Barbara CA   September 15th, 2008 5:45 pm ET

Colin Powel, you are very right that it would be electrifying for Barack Obama to become President. And I believe he would ask you to be in his Cabinet. The Democrats would treat you with the respect and honor you deserve, unlike the republicans (who threw you under the bus).

BKoi   September 15th, 2008 5:45 pm ET

In my opinion , The only way Colin Powell Won't endorse Obama is if MCCains MANIACs threaten his life, if he does! Either that ,or they'll threaten to have him coach Sarah Palin in foreign policy, with heavy emphasis on The BUSH DOCTRINE !!

No Country For Old Men   September 15th, 2008 5:44 pm ET

General Colin Powell please stay away from John McCain.
McCain said today that, the economy is fundamentally strong.
The economy is fundamentally strong…."
He then called Obama and the Media and stated,
The unemployment surge is working!
The unemployment surge is working!
This is Republicans Change that we don’t need!

Obama & Biden ‘08
Hillary & Warner ‘16
McCain 88, Hitting & Holding ‘24

S   September 15th, 2008 5:43 pm ET

I am sure he won't find a reason anytime soon!

Janet, American Abroad   September 15th, 2008 5:42 pm ET

Mr. Powell, saw first hand how the Bush/Cheney ran this country into a DEPRESSION!

Lets all be hope he will release the Truth to the American Citizens!

All of us and the world have a right to let the Smoke and Mirror Tactics be removed!

Former Army   September 15th, 2008 5:42 pm ET

I understand his wife's feelings, but it's too bad for the country he didn't run for President.

Herman In LA   September 15th, 2008 5:42 pm ET

Come on aboard the change we need Powell the water is just fine over here…

Obama/Biden

Wilfred   September 15th, 2008 5:42 pm ET

I have great respect for Colin Powell , as a man and a general.
Backing Obama would be a mistake , almost as bad as Bush listening to Rumsfeld.

nate   September 15th, 2008 5:41 pm ET

'Do the right thing', Colin.

Wisconsin Badger   September 15th, 2008 5:41 pm ET

Sounds to me like another republican fleeing the GOP's sinking ship…funny that McCain's camp runs solely on military service for McCain's credentials for President, yet even some of the greatest military minds of our time aren't even fully convinced of his ability to lead us in this crucial time.

Obama/Biden 08

Ron Baxter   September 15th, 2008 5:40 pm ET

You have known someone for 30 years and you still don't know if you can endorse his run for the presidency?? He is from your political party?? silence or your lack of support for McCain is saying alot about whom you are supporting in this election!!!

darwin   September 15th, 2008 5:40 pm ET

"Powell still undecided, says Obama win would be 'electrifying' "

Absolutely … the static electricity created from the rush of cash sucked from our pockets by the enormous bureaucracy of an Obama administration would "electrify" everything. Very astute that Powell.

BOOTSTOMPER   September 15th, 2008 5:40 pm ET

Come on Colin you know McCain is angry and Palin is unqualified. You know in your heart that Obama is what this country needs.

Mike in Houston   September 15th, 2008 5:40 pm ET

If we get into the issues, Obama will lose in a landslide. He has no plan, no policy and no idea of what the presidency is like. He is, in a word, pathetic.

JC   September 15th, 2008 5:40 pm ET

Colin Powell is an Intelligent & Wise Man. I trust his good judgement will lead him to vote for Barack Obama.

Jorge   September 15th, 2008 5:40 pm ET

"'And I'm interested to see what the debates are going to be like because we have to get off of this ‘lipstick on a pig’ stuff and get into issues,' he said."

The most telling sentence in the whole article.

Even though the general was flim–flammed by Bush/Cheney on the Iraq WMD issue, he is still one of the most trusted men in America.

La Raza   September 15th, 2008 5:40 pm ET

I love this man.

Beverly, NYC   September 15th, 2008 5:40 pm ET

Who are you trying to kidding General? After the way the Bush Administration used your good name to sell the Iraq war, threw you under the bus, while Condi stepped over you to take your job. Please if you're not for Obama, I have a bridge to nowhere to sell you.

Amy   September 15th, 2008 5:40 pm ET

Wow. Another high profile Republican who has yet to find a reason to vote for McCain/Palin. Interesting!

Redphilly   September 15th, 2008 5:39 pm ET

I like Colin Powell. If it were between him and Obama I don't know which I would choose. But only if they were both Democrats. If Powell were running as McCain's VP I, even though I am African-American, I could not vote for him because he does not represent my views on life. He is more like M$Cain. So all you people who say we black folks only vote black, I am not one of them. Not many of us are.

Independents For McCain   September 15th, 2008 5:39 pm ET

Joe Biden took flak for his dopey description of Obama as "the first mainstream African-American who is articulate and bright and clean and a nice-looking guy,"

What a great VP choice?

Beverly, NYC   September 15th, 2008 5:39 pm ET

Who are you trying to kidding General? After the way the Bush Administration youed your good name to sell the Iraq war, threw you under the bus, while Condi steped over you to take your job. Please if you're not for Obama, I have a bridge to nowhere to sell you.

Woman voter from VA   September 15th, 2008 5:39 pm ET

Mr. Powell,
We appreciate you voting with your heart and what is the best interest of America.

It's just interesting that he would consider voting against his party. At least we see he is a man who puts Country first!

I guess it's troubling to see Palin fellow Alaskan women (and some males) had a Anti-Palin rally.

As someone said, if you believe the REP hype I have a BRIDGE to sell you and it goes TO NOWHERE.

Ethan   September 15th, 2008 5:38 pm ET

If he hasn't decided on voting for McScam in three decades, why would he start now? He KNOWS that McScam will make us less safe abroad. I hope he endorses Barack if for no other reason than to make up for his involvement in the U.N. Iraq WMD debacle.

Selling Jets on Ebay for America   September 15th, 2008 5:38 pm ET

Wow, did anyone notice how CNN reports this?
The title says Powell says that an OBAMA win would be an electrifying, theninside the story, where half of you dim-witted ninnies won't even read, then clarifies that Powel meant the possibility of electing an African-American President as a concept would be electrifying.

Wow, the lack of unbiased reporting is shocking at best!!!!

HUH?   September 15th, 2008 5:37 pm ET

How can anyone be "undecided" at this point? Up until the VP was named, fair enough but now what is he waiting on?

Come on Colin, step up for Obama!

J UAN CARLOS   September 15th, 2008 5:37 pm ET

G E N E R A L,,,,,,,,,,,,,4 5 %,,,,,,,,,,,,,O F,,,,,,,,,,,,,,E L E C T O R A T E,,,,,,,,,,,,,,

I S ,,,,,,,,N O T ,,,,,,,,,,,,E L E C T R Y F Y I N G

Hi Russia, I'm Over Here   September 15th, 2008 5:37 pm ET

With all due respect General, I don't care any more. You should choose sides, and that's that. Choose Barack if you're for America, choose McCain if you're for the lobbyist. It's really very simple.

I don't see how anyone could be on the sidelines after watching the Palin interview. She's a joke, and so is John. If anyone thinks I'm voting for a ticket that has someone who thinks foreign policy means waving to Russia, they ought to have their head examined.

Obama/Biden 08

Steve Deming   September 15th, 2008 5:37 pm ET

If possible I would appreciate this being forwardrd to Colin Powell:

Mr. Secretary,

I have sent this type of message to several indiduals who I feel are widely respected. I firmly believe that John McCain is useing out and out lies and distortions in his campaign.

I think people of your need to state your thoughts as to what comments by either candidate is a lie or major distortion. I think it will take this to stop the negative campaign tone.

Thanks,

Steve Deming

Ralph   September 15th, 2008 5:37 pm ET

Obama is in way over his head. This economy is going to take a person who knows what to do. If everything keeps failing, there won't be anyone making over $250,000.00, then where will all those taxes come from? I do believe Mccain can get it done.

CarolO McBain MI   September 15th, 2008 5:36 pm ET

Just take a look at each candidates Vice and that should help make a decision. Palin has been caught in 4 lies in 2 weeks and it makes you wonder how much we'd find out if she had been around as long as the others.

Peter of Oregon   September 15th, 2008 5:36 pm ET

I'm sure Powell will do what he believes is best for the country and circle in Barack Obama's name on the ballot box come November.

California Gold   September 15th, 2008 5:36 pm ET

Who Colin Powell sayd he will vote for is a "nice to know" but not much more than that. I agree when Colin Powell says he will make his decision on who he thinks is good for the country. It's not a popularity contest.

Nia Hussein- Phoenix, AZ   September 15th, 2008 5:36 pm ET

Well get off the couch and help him win then!!

Todd   September 15th, 2008 5:35 pm ET

This is a joke. Can we talk about the elephant in the room!
Why is this race so close. The answer is RACE!!!
People don't feel "right" with Obama because he's not like them.

CAN WE FINALLY BE HONEST??

DOES THIS COUNTRY LOVE AFRICAN AMERICANS AS MUCH AS AFRICAN AMERICANS LOVE THIS COUNTRY?

Florida Gold   September 15th, 2008 5:35 pm ET

I forgot to tell you Mr Powell you don`t have to wait to decide who you are going to vote for. You can remain with your unqualified party .We do not need your tainted bloody hands in our Democratic Party.Please do not come near us and that`s for the only thing I would thank you.

Raymond Christopher   September 15th, 2008 5:35 pm ET

Colin Powell lost much of his stature as a influential voice in America when he stood by as Bush and Cheney rushed to war with Iraq on spurious grounds.

Who should now pay attention to Powell?

Selling Jets on Ebay for America   September 15th, 2008 5:34 pm ET

Joe Biden stumped today in Michigan.

Biden is stumped anyplace he happens to open his mouth.

Powell   September 15th, 2008 5:34 pm ET

Colin -now if you were the one running to be the First African American President I would vote for you in a minute. You put rings around Obama and YOU would be electrifrying!!

jle   September 15th, 2008 5:34 pm ET

Colin Powell's endorsement used to mean something. After his role in helping us get into the Iraq War, it means much less now.

Buster   September 15th, 2008 5:34 pm ET

Colin Powell is a kitty kat for staying on the sidelines and covering for the Republicans and BUSH/CHENEY who USED HIM as cover for their LIES about IRAQ and WMD's.

Who cares what he thinks anymore. He lost his credibility by not stepping up and telling the truth a LONG time ago.

Bev   September 15th, 2008 5:34 pm ET

I haven't yet found a reason to vote for mcsame. I respect Powell and felt the bush administration done him wrong. I hope he sees what everyone else knows…mcain=bush-no way, no how, no mccain, no palin.
Go Obama!!

CB   September 15th, 2008 5:33 pm ET

I'm praying Powell will come out in full support of Obama.

Texas   September 15th, 2008 5:33 pm ET

Someone has to be blind to think that McCain can do the job better than Obama. OBAMA is what America needs now

BK   September 15th, 2008 5:33 pm ET

Yea we know who he is voting for. With the 95%.

Warmonger   September 15th, 2008 5:33 pm ET

John McCain is not the brightest bulb in the box, either. He has to stay on script himself. But then again, he doesn't have to be smart to say "I declare war". That's easy, so suit up people, we'll have another maniac in the White House for at least 4 years.

You say, it takes an act of Congress to start a war, well not after the Bush Doctrine. We're living in a nightmare folks.

Obama/Biden 08

Arkansas Undertaker   September 15th, 2008 5:33 pm ET

Well, I feel Like an endorsment from COlin Powell carries a lot of weight and it would do wonders to change the direction of this Presidential race.

Either of the candidates would be licky to recieve an endorsment from General Powell. I think he would have a much easier decision to make if the candidate would start focusing more on the issues instead of insults and lies.

Carl from MI   September 15th, 2008 5:32 pm ET

Hmm… even Powell is waiting for the McCain campaign to lay off the lipstick faked outrage and finally address the issues.

WAKE UP, AMERICA!!! VOTE SMART… NOT SENILE!!!

Moderate Republican for Obama   September 15th, 2008 5:32 pm ET

I respect Powell so much. I consider him a Moderate Republican like myself. I voted for McCain in the 2000 primary and voted for Bush in 2000 and 2004. I have decided to support OBAMA-BIDEN because I feel in my heart and mind that this is the right choice for America over the next 4 years.

Dems, Moderates and Independents, and Republicans who know better, vote for OBAMA-BIDEN in 2008! And, I hope Powell follows suit.

Sandra   September 15th, 2008 5:32 pm ET

Mr Powell.
You are a much respected man. Hopefully you will jump onboard for Obama/Biden now rather than later. This election is too important for anyone to stand on the sidelines who may make a difference!

mark   September 15th, 2008 5:32 pm ET

Obama for prez and Powell for sec of defense

what a coward!   September 15th, 2008 5:32 pm ET

Why wait? You should know Obama and McCain very well and how you line up your beliefs with either one of them.

Hiding behind the curtain is plain coward. Just like McCain, he took advantage of Obama's VP announcement and convention before he can announce his. I'm very sure McCain flipped from Tim Pawlenty or other candidate for the Lipstick chic after Obama picked Biden.

dennise   September 15th, 2008 5:32 pm ET

Both Powell and Rice are not saying who their for because their voting for Obama and they don't want break ranks with their own party…As far as McCain's comment of desperate…I'm sorry McCain is the desperate person between his false ads, lies, and stealing Obama's slogan. He's just down right pathetic.

Bulldog   September 15th, 2008 5:31 pm ET

If you know John McCain for 3 decades and still don't have a good reason to vote for him then I don't know if you ever will. Powell is a decent and honorable man, and McCain is lost his honor in this campaign. That doesn't mean he will vote for Obama, but if McCain can not run an honorable campaign then how can you trust him in the White House?

Walt   September 15th, 2008 5:31 pm ET

With his experience and credentials, I am surprised that he is not offended by the possibility of Palin being president.

Ralph   September 15th, 2008 5:31 pm ET

The worst this economy gets, the more afraid I am of Obama being in way over his head.

Barbara - NC   September 15th, 2008 5:31 pm ET

WHATTT?? HP cutting more US Jobs? After McCain's advisor (Carley Fiorina) ran it into the ground and outsourced MOST of the jobs already?

Is that REFORM WE NEED?

God help this country. The Republicans are out of control and selling our country to the cheapest bidder !!

Scott, Wichita   September 15th, 2008 5:31 pm ET

Please run, Colin!
You're the only politician we can trust anymore!

Gary   September 15th, 2008 5:30 pm ET

He knows who he is voting for. He's not stupid. He just won't say.

Ted   September 15th, 2008 5:30 pm ET

Come on, Colin…

We love Sarah   September 15th, 2008 5:30 pm ET

Another source close to Powell said that he has known McCain for more than three decades “and likes him, and is looking for a reason to vote for him. He hasn't found it yet."

If after 30 years you can't find a reason, then don't support McCain!!

Bob   September 15th, 2008 5:30 pm ET

Good man, Good words!

Douglas, Los Angeles California   September 15th, 2008 5:30 pm ET

As this campaign matures, America is starting to wake up. He knows as the rest of America that Obama/Biden is the best thing we've got going for real "Change."

Joyce, ny   September 15th, 2008 5:29 pm ET

I don't know where these people are polling but I really believe this election won't even be close.
It's the media who is hyping this up so they have some news.
Everywhere you go across this country you can see change is what the people want not a 3rd term Republican administration.

As for Powell, I really hope he tries he best to make up for selling that war to UN by endorsing Barrack.

Selling Jets on Ebay for America   September 15th, 2008 5:29 pm ET

On a day when Obama could have taken the ball on the economy and run with it, all he came up with was "Oh no he won't!!!!" regarding McCain's promises to reform Wall Street……and CNN focuses on non-stories like "Colin Powell is undecided"……

Unfortunate….

Tim   September 15th, 2008 5:29 pm ET

We want to know about Michigan and Ohio preventing citizen from voting in a cretain district if their name appears on a housing forclosure list. I wonder why the Republicans are pressing this in two states that are closely contested? Talk about win a any cost!!! It's bad enough that people have lost their houses, now we want to hinder tham from voting? CNN this subject needs to be on the ticker and you need to ask McCain and Obama what they think about it. Do your jobs and report the news CNN, ABC, MSNBC, and FOX!!!!

Wow, What Gives?   September 15th, 2008 5:29 pm ET

Old soldiers never die, they just stand on the sidelines.

O/B 08

S-Man   September 15th, 2008 5:29 pm ET

Say out loud Powell - Obama '08

Ramie (atlanta)   September 15th, 2008 5:29 pm ET

He would've been a better VP pick than either Biden or Palin

Bud in TN   September 15th, 2008 5:28 pm ET

His failure to endorse McSame is pretty telling indeed.

Jimmy, IL   September 15th, 2008 5:28 pm ET

Powell is increasingly becoming irrelevant. If he wanted to make a difference, he would join the Obama camp. If he wants to fade away, he can stand on the sidelines like he's doing.

Obama/Biden 08

Rob   September 15th, 2008 5:28 pm ET

Powell will back Obama. Because he is Black? No way . Powell don't roll that way. Powell will support Obama because Obama is the Smart one and the honest one. Like Powell himself.

Independant in Atlanta   September 15th, 2008 5:27 pm ET

Powell could play the referee. Lets get back to the Issues.

Frank   September 15th, 2008 5:27 pm ET

I am surprised to see somebody so highly intelligent as Powell not being able to decide after almost 2 years of campaigning. The facts are on the table, the lies are being smudged into (republican) adds … why not stand up and stop the McCain Hate Campaign ?

Capablanca   September 15th, 2008 5:27 pm ET

People should look at the record of reform of each candidate. A candidate with only rhetoric and nothing to speak of in terms of record should be discarded. I will leave it up to the readers to fill in the blanks….

Al   September 15th, 2008 5:27 pm ET

Mr. Powell, please, show openly your support for Obama! You see yourself how crazy is the opposite side! What will happen to our country? You've been there, when Iraq nightmare started. You can at least partially soften your guilt by openly supporting Obama/Biden now.

Obama/Biden 2008

temi   September 15th, 2008 5:27 pm ET

MCCAIN:

ECONOMY———IS———HARDER———BETTER———FASTER———STRONGER

LETS———GET———LOST———TONIGHT

YOU———COULD———BE———MY———BLACK———KATE———MOSS———TONIGHT

PALIN———PLAY———SECRETARY———IM———THE———BOSS———TONIGHT

LB   September 15th, 2008 5:27 pm ET

Oh please Powell. I really like you. Don't be pulled in by this deceiver. Obama is nothing more than a Daly machine thug. You know better. Please come to your senses.

john   September 15th, 2008 5:27 pm ET

Obama because hes black or McCain because hes best for America. no wonder he blew it at the U.N

That Other Jerry   September 15th, 2008 5:27 pm ET

Pleeeeeeze run for President, Colin! The two most intelligent people in Washington (sometimes I think the ONLY two intelligent people in Washington) also happen to be a black man and a black woman. It's just too much to hope for I suppose…

Powell/Rice 20-any year!

Powell is backing Obama   September 15th, 2008 5:27 pm ET

Powell is backing Obama, he just can't publicly say it because he's a Republican and still has ties to Bush and the rest of the party. If he came out and publicly endorsed Obama that would prove how McCain and the rest of the Bush party is unfit for Washington.

KATHLEEN   September 15th, 2008 5:27 pm ET

ATTENTION: Karl Rove is pandering between BOTH parties
because HE WORKS FOR FOX and he has been accused
of possibly having a conflict of interest between FOX NEWS
AND McCain-Palin ticket which, of course, it has been noted
that he had a lot of clout in choosing Palin.

GET THE REAL STORY ON Fox New's Karl Rove being involved
in the pick of Palin for McCain. GET THE REAL STORY on a–hole
ROVE!!!!!!! He has not changed!!! Give us a break CNN!!!!!
WE ARE RUNNING OUT OF TIME.!!!!!!

Obama, above all, should not be deterred from speaking about
issues! McCain has nothing to lose by antagonizing Obama, since
McCain has already talked about all that is on his and Palin's
agenda. All McCain Palin have le

Obama-Biden.2008
OBAMA-BIDEN SHOULD TALK ABOUT ISSUES TO THE AMERICAN
PEOPLE!!!!! NOW!

Selling Jets on Ebay for America   September 15th, 2008 5:26 pm ET

This is as close to a non-story as has been posted all week.

hurriCAIN PALIN   September 15th, 2008 5:26 pm ET

an “exciting person on the political stage."

“He has energized a lot of people in America,”

“He has energized a lot of people around the world. And so I think he is worth listening to and seeing what he stands for.”

NOBAMA may be a fresh face in politics, but what has he actually done for his country, what "change" has he brought to politics -congress - house - senate

everybody has to stop drinking the kool-aid, too much can be real bad for you

Peter (CA)   September 15th, 2008 5:26 pm ET

C'mon General Powell, this would seal it once and for all.

I am tired of hearing the BS about Obama being a communist, a terrorist, and whatever else the deluded minions of the RNC come up with. A lot of people (including my very conservative father-in-law) look up to you.

Obama/Biden….the only ones who can bring change.

mitchell   September 15th, 2008 5:26 pm ET

he'll be voting for obama.

debbie   September 15th, 2008 5:26 pm ET

Who cares? Is anyone going to vote for Mccain or Obama because Powell wants you to?

POWELL GOT SCREWED BY THE GOP   September 15th, 2008 5:26 pm ET

Yessir!

Independent_me   September 15th, 2008 5:26 pm ET

Powell is wise to wait and not act hastily. Having been scorched by Bush, I wouldn't be to quick to trust any Republican candidate if I were he…

Dave   September 15th, 2008 5:26 pm ET

"Powell said that he has known McCain for more than three decades “and likes him, and is looking for a reason to vote for him. He hasn't found it yet."

Enough Said,

Obama-Biden 08

Eli   September 15th, 2008 5:26 pm ET

PLEASE do we have to wonder who he is voting for. This election is a JOKE, it was the day the DEMOCRATS HEADS forced or TRIED to force us to vote for Obama, instead of Hillary the one the TRUE DEMOCRATS wanted. If it was not for some old DEMOCRATS that came running out to PROP Obama up everythime he failed in the primaries we would not be in this mess now.

AJ   September 15th, 2008 5:26 pm ET

That's great to hear. Yes, it will be electrifying. Not only McCain is lying , so is Palin. She is talking like Obama's VP more than McCain's. She was saying McCain and her are going to Washington and straighten out Wall Street and CEO's. Who is she kidding? They are in bed with Wall Strret and the CEO's. They want to cut corporate taxes, deregulate the financial sector and everything else. She is campaigning like a democrat but this fake talking points is not going to work. All advisors like Nancy whoever are talking nonsensical talking points - she is quoting unknown economists and blurting out bull.

PK   September 15th, 2008 5:25 pm ET

What would have been cool if Obama chose Powell as his VP. Wow, now that would have been electrifying. However, Biden is a terrific pick. It demonstrates Obama's kine foresight and forward thinking.

CNN Message Bds, paid for by Obama '08   September 15th, 2008 5:25 pm ET

Eh, non-story.

I am intrigued by how fast Obama got out to Colorado after Palin spoke this morning. Could he be any more obsessed over her? Good Lord, his campaign has fallen off-message completely.

Jenna, NY   September 15th, 2008 5:25 pm ET

This only means one thing. He's voting for Obama but knows he'd be hated by his party if he thought for himself. It's a tough call but hopefully he'll pull through….. This is definitely pro-Obama news!

Florida Gold   September 15th, 2008 5:25 pm ET

Mr Powell state away from my next President the honorable Barack Obama.You are a disgrace for my country you sold us out with your misserables lies in front of the whole world in a way to invade Irak , by doing so you incriminate yourself in the murder of more than four thousand of our best soldiers of AMERICA,shame on you Mr Collin Powell

Sean   September 15th, 2008 5:24 pm ET

someone should ask Sarah Palin to define "fundamentals of the economy" Let's see if she has an easier time explaining that then what the VP does or What the Bush Doctrine is!

Craig C   September 15th, 2008 5:24 pm ET

The fact that Powell, a Republican, has not endorsed McCain/Palin reflects poorly on the GOP ticket. I'm a former Republican who not only has "had it" with where the party has taken this country, but am actually excited about Obama/Biden. Maybe Powell feels the same way.

A Boston   September 15th, 2008 5:24 pm ET

Don't worry! I'm reading between the lines Powell..

OBAMA/BIDEN 08′

Diane   September 15th, 2008 5:24 pm ET

Here is a man we can all respect. I wish HE were running!

Darrel from Denver   September 15th, 2008 5:24 pm ET

Electrifying, along with his earlier comments, strongly suggests he is leaning toward Obama, to me.

This is a man I would have voted for. I trust his judgment.

McCain/Palin '08? … Thanks, But No Thanks

Andy   September 15th, 2008 5:24 pm ET

Not only will an Obama victory be electrifying… think about how deflating a McCain victory will be to the country? & to the world? Most ppl would lose any hope they had for government that works.

Obama the real deal!!!!!!!!!!   September 15th, 2008 5:24 pm ET

The world is watching and holding their breath. They are praying and wishing that Americans can once in their lives grow grey matter.
Obama the smart, fresh and sane choice!!!!!

nin ja   September 15th, 2008 5:24 pm ET

OBAMA 08!!!

CNN Message Bds, paid for by Obama '08   September 15th, 2008 5:23 pm ET

This non-story brought to you by the new line of "faith-based merchandise", now available at BarackObama.com .

Candy West Virginia   September 15th, 2008 5:23 pm ET

Alan Greenspan said that mccain's economic plan would destroy this country financially.

Michael G.   September 15th, 2008 5:23 pm ET

Yes Colin, Obama would be electrifying, as much as your support of the War in Iraq at the UN was shocking. Shame on you. You knew better than to be used and duped by the likes of Bush, Rumsfeld, Cheney, and Rove.

unbelievable   September 15th, 2008 5:23 pm ET

The fact that Colin Powell still can't decide–especially after all of McCain's most recent lies–makes me lose a lot of the respect I had for him.

Pennsylvania Voter   September 15th, 2008 5:23 pm ET

Let me explain what this means to Republicans: he's voting for Obama but doesn't want to say it yet.

Just be happy he's not just openly coming out for him yet.

Phil Thompson   September 15th, 2008 5:23 pm ET

Another source close to Powell said that he has known McCain for more than three decades “and likes him, and is looking for a reason to vote for him. He hasn't found it yet."

That says it all right there

Enlightened Voter   September 15th, 2008 5:23 pm ET

The mere fact that he has not endorsed the man of his party, mccain, should speak volumes. We all know Powell supports Barack.

KD   September 15th, 2008 5:23 pm ET

Does it matter what Colin Powell thinks because he's black or because he has a good handle on all the important issues we as Americans face? How about economics? How about lower taxes? How about rights for all citizens, including the unborn? How about rights for citizens, not illegal aliends? Let's listen to someone who speaks with a rational, logical, and clearly moral perspective. Is that Colin Powell?

CNN Message Bds, paid for by Obama '08   September 15th, 2008 5:22 pm ET

Rep. Charlie Rangel (D) had to hire a forensic acc’t just to figure out how much he cheated on his own taxes.

Hey, did anyone notice that CNN hasn’t reported on that story yet?
Hmmmm…..

cheryl   September 15th, 2008 5:22 pm ET

C'mon Colin…Join the Obama party…

you know you wanna….

diana, Los Angeles   September 15th, 2008 5:22 pm ET

Liberals are just desparate… its really easy to calls people liers and "just makes stuff up"… if only you can see how foolish you look and appear. I hope you continue attaking McCain/Palin.. it only brings more people to the RIGHT side (the conservative side). Colin Powel, please stay on the right path, as this country does NOT need a bigger government. The liberal congress has created this mess witht he subprime loans and greedy wall street buying up this mess. Let the chips fall, cause we need to suffer conseqences before one learns.

DJ Los Angeles   September 15th, 2008 5:22 pm ET

WELL…then Mr. Powell in that case you need to step up to the plate and "formally" endorse Senator Obama.

Barbara - NC   September 15th, 2008 5:22 pm ET

Colin Powell was lied to also. He is a man I respect very much.

Hate to spoil the kind thoughts for Powell with the following, but you people need to remember:

Palin (when mayor of Wasilla) took a small town with a balanced budget and "reformed it" so that when she left, that same town was $20 million in debt.

This is Reform WE DO NOT NEED FOR THE UNITED STATES.

Also, Fiorina as an advisor? She ran HP into the ground and outsourced all those jobs. DO YOU REALLY WANT MORE OF THE SAME? Your choice.

Typing in all caps and whining about Rove isn't an argument.   September 15th, 2008 5:21 pm ET

Wow, such unbiased reporting, cnn…..Pfttttt…..please.

These "stories" should have to include the disclaimer "Paid for by Obama/Biden 2008″.

No Palin No McCain NO WAY!!!   September 15th, 2008 5:21 pm ET

Mr Powell

Do the decent thing and support Obama NOW, please. Supporting McCain is the worst thing you could do for America. I bet you could find yourself a place in the Obama Administration, perhaps as Sec. of Defense!

I don't blame you for the misinformation and lies you spoke to the U.N. You were hung out to dry by your old pal Georgie boy, who is maniacal, ego centric and a few cards short of a full deck!!

No Way for McCain and Plain Palin.. She isn't who she pretends to be!! America is wiser and smarter than that!

America must not become a 3rd world nation under McCain because he will start WW3..

Sandy   September 15th, 2008 5:21 pm ET

ELECTRIFYING TO SAY THE LEAST…IT SEEMS THE AIR HAS SEEPED OUT OF THE MCSANE AND FAILIN BALLOON. OBAMA/BIDEN WILL SURELY BE IN THE WHITEHOUSE AS MR.PRESIDENT AND MR. VP.

Tom in Delaware   September 15th, 2008 5:21 pm ET

Sounds about as decisive as a Democratic Superdelagate.

Maybe the debates with sway him.

Pam   September 15th, 2008 5:21 pm ET

Well if he's really go to go by they issues, then there's no way he can back McCain.

Siddhartha   September 15th, 2008 5:20 pm ET

A Powell endorsement, despite the stain on his reputation from the presentation to the UN, would be a clincher for either candidate.
If I had to choose one, Obama definitely more so than McCain.

BevAnn   September 15th, 2008 5:20 pm ET

Senator Obama would do us all a great favor if Colin Powell had a prominent seat on his cabinet. That's all I have to say!

Andy   September 15th, 2008 5:20 pm ET

McCain plays the POW card WELL. Isn't that a good reason POWELL?

Jeremy   September 15th, 2008 5:20 pm ET

Colin Powell is a very admirable and honorable American. There is little doubt he will eventually endorse the one candidate who can do the best job for America. Yes we can!

Rodger   September 15th, 2008 5:20 pm ET

Powell will back Obama…he will remain unable to find a reason to vote for McCain.

Lori   September 15th, 2008 5:20 pm ET

I also can not wait for the debates. Obama is going to tear McMain a new one because McCain is so out of touch it's not even funny.

McCain won't talk about the issues. Why?

Palin wont talk about the issues. Why?

At least Obama talks about the issues and offers solutions on how to fix them, and how to pay for it.

Debby   September 15th, 2008 5:20 pm ET

Oh Powell just pick the electrirying candidate and get it over with. When he bankrupts the US completely you will be more electrified. LOL

Larry   September 15th, 2008 5:19 pm ET

I can't believe CNN has not reported on Obama's efforts to delay U.S. troop withdrawals in Iraq until after the election. CNN, I've never been more convinced that you're in the tank for Obama and are not giving fair and balanced news coverage.

Yes, we can   September 15th, 2008 5:19 pm ET

McCain: "We will stop multimillion-dollar payouts to CEOs who have broken the public trust." How much severance payment did Carly Fiorina (McCains adviser) take home after destroying Hewlett-Packard? - $21 million in cash, which was 2.5 times her base annual salary. And the Oscar for economic flip flopper goes to…Mccain

Elizabeth   September 15th, 2008 5:19 pm ET

I have great respect for Colin Powell and was disgusted to see him thrown under the bus by the Bush administration. I'd love to see this intelligent and talented man stand up for Barack Obama.

fella from Chicago   September 15th, 2008 5:19 pm ET

Yo Colin, Barack is black and you're black. It's ok to say you'll back him. America expects it. Same with Oprah. That's what's wrong with this country. Ya see, America knows blacks are just as racist as whites. So Colin come out and endorse Barack, you'll feel better.

randy   September 15th, 2008 5:19 pm ET

please powell make the endorsement.
i know it will happen.

Accountant Guy   September 15th, 2008 5:19 pm ET

Powell knows that Obama is the only candidate that can save our country which is going down the drain quickly!! THANKS, BUT NO THANKS ON MCCAIN/PALIN!!!

Obama/Biden '08

Vincent   September 15th, 2008 5:19 pm ET

Powell on an Obama ticket would be electrifying as I have always liked Mr. Powell especially with all the B.S. he had to deal with in this administration.

I trust his judgment more than anyone else's.

Obama WILL win FL   September 15th, 2008 5:18 pm ET

Obama's win will return our GREAT Country to a place of GREAT respect around the world. We will have MORE friends who work with us around the world.

Abby   September 15th, 2008 5:18 pm ET

Endorse obama already. Speak your conscience.

Kim   September 15th, 2008 5:18 pm ET

Come on Powell. You have always been a man of Honor. Forget your ties to Bush and admit the obvious truth. You are for Obama as is every American with an IQ over 100.

McPALIN   September 15th, 2008 5:18 pm ET

Exactly, not enough reason to vote for the war monger. He doesn't want to contradict and vote for McSame only to continue a war that he disagreed off.

Turnabout is fair play   September 15th, 2008 5:18 pm ET

It's okay Colin, we all know you are going to vote for the honesty and truth you see in Obama so you don't have to hide how ya feel. :-) We're voting for him too!

Ruby, Kansas   September 15th, 2008 5:18 pm ET

More politics! Powell already has the "information" he needs to endorse a candidate. Powell is merely waiting for McCain to fall flat on his face so it won't appear as though he (Powell) is going against the Republican party. Politics!

txgal44   September 15th, 2008 5:17 pm ET

Oh please Powell! You know you're voting for Obama!! You know it and I know it! What other choice is there?

Shari, NY   September 15th, 2008 5:17 pm ET

Oh, Mr. Powell, I believe you and Ms. Rice are on Obama's side because you are smart people. What a waste of talent you both are!

Andy   September 15th, 2008 5:17 pm ET

Obama's fired up, & puts the HEAT in DEAD HEAT.

Guess what McCain puts?

Josh   September 15th, 2008 5:17 pm ET

He's exactly right, let's get to the issues!!!

Linda from Prescott AZ   September 15th, 2008 5:16 pm ET

Come on General Powell, you know Obama is the right choice.

Steve, Madison WI   September 15th, 2008 5:16 pm ET

I always liked Powell as I feel his is a reasoned, intelligent man - his only bad moment was letting Bush talk him into telling lies to the UN.

Hopefully, he makes a reasoned choice and backs Obama.

Dee Jay a young republican   September 15th, 2008 5:16 pm ET

yoooooooooooooo we miss you Colin

The best sec of State ever

He knows whats the best choice

Obama/Biden 08

Douglas Marshall Jr.   September 15th, 2008 5:15 pm ET

He's voting for OBAMA.

If McCain had his vote he would come out and say it.

Katie - Atlanta   September 15th, 2008 5:15 pm ET

And McCain would be terrifying!

Xavier, Saint Louis, Missouri   September 15th, 2008 5:15 pm ET

DITTO! OBAMA ALL THE WAY!

NO WAY, NO HOW, NO MCCAIN, NO PALIN!

Independent-Latina-for-OBAMA   September 15th, 2008 5:15 pm ET

Poor Colin Powell, he has been brow beaten enough that now he is afraid to take a stand. When he choose to align himself with the Bush/Cheney regime, he sold his soul.

Come on, Mr. Powell, redeem yourself by standing up for CHANGE!

Gapon   September 15th, 2008 5:14 pm ET

Is it with him Race or Program?

Eric-29-m-PA   September 15th, 2008 5:14 pm ET

Yeah, because he's black! We all know which they're voting. Pretty sad.

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