September 16, 2008
Posted: September 16th, 2008 02:45 PM ET
Obama kept up the economic attacks on McCain Tuesday.
Obama kept up the economic attacks on McCain Tuesday.

(CNN) - Sen. Barack Obama said Tuesday that the country is facing the "most serious financial crisis in generations" and argued that rival Sen. John McCain would only make it worse.

"I certainly don't fault Sen. McCain for all of the problems we're facing, but I do fault the economic philosophy he subscribes to," Obama said in Golden, Colorado.

Obama said what's happened in the past few days is "nothing less than the final verdict on an economic philosophy that has completely failed."

On Monday, Lehman Brothers - the 158-year-old Wall Street giant - filed for bankruptcy protection, and 94-year-old Merrill Lynch sold itself to Bank of America. Both developments sent shock waves through Wall Street.

Listen Obama conference call hits McCain on the economic crisis

While Obama was slamming McCain's economic policies, the senator from Arizona campaigned in Tampa, Florida, where he promised to "change the way Washington does business."

"We're going to put an end to the reckless conduct, corruption and unbridled greed that has caused a crisis on Wall Street," McCain said.

Full story

Filed under: Barack Obama • John McCain


Angela   September 16th, 2008 4:31 pm ET

We're all dumber for hearing the words that exit that sexist unexperienced senator's mouth. There has never been a more unqualififed candidate for president who's sole goal is stroke his ego at the expense of our children and our future.

PalinLiesTooMuch   September 16th, 2008 4:30 pm ET

Wake up all uneducated Americans and try to understand what this nation is facing every thing is going to the wrong direction under the Bush admistration and Mccain is a contiuation of Bush he voted 90% of the time with Bush, and he said and I quote I do not know much about the econony and yeserday on of his surgate ceo of HP said Mccain and Palin are not qualified to run a company how in heck are they going to run the country if they are not qualified to run a comapany.

lol   September 16th, 2008 4:30 pm ET

obama can't even handle his campaign finances. they are spending, spending, spending. he can't even budget his campaign, let alone help america's economy. gov. palin has experience, she balanced a budget, and has a surplus in alaska. mccain/palin 08!

fella from Chicago   September 16th, 2008 4:30 pm ET

Bring back the welfare queens. Let's make sure we destroy the incentives to get rich (remember the American dream?) Socialism at its finest. Vote Obama.

Laverne   September 16th, 2008 4:30 pm ET

Tennessee and what exactly is McCain's plan, we all have been waiting to hear it and have not heard anything yet. Please enlighten us!

Shannon WA ST   September 16th, 2008 4:30 pm ET

Mccain is a joke!!! He and his sidekick are more of the same old washington that we are all sick to death of. Mccain voted agains every bill that would help the american people . He voted against regulating the market 18 months ago. Obama has been putting americans first..... Get a clue america.......

david Armendale, SF, CA   September 16th, 2008 4:29 pm ET

McLame tries to weasel out of parroting the Bush proclamation that the fundamentals of our economy strong by redefining those fundamentals as being the American worker. What a weak and ineffective mind at work!
The fundamentals of the economy, as McCain himself has explained on past occasions, are such indicators as unemployment figures, real after-tax wages, inflation rates, consumer confidence, the stability of financial institutions, as well as budget and trade deficits.
So when you get caught in another of your lies, John McCain, don't try hiding behind the American worker whom you've consistently voted against nearly the entirety of your stint in the senate.

jefflz   September 16th, 2008 4:29 pm ET

McCain has launched the DoubleTalk Express and Sarah Palin is at the wheel of this bus. He said recently that he knows little of the economy and is on the record being against regulation of Wall St. before he was for it. Phil Gramm (Texas, Enron) a McCain financial advisor called Americans a bunch of whiners about the economy. McCain says he is bullish about the economy until the market crashed. McCain, whose family wealth is in excess of $100 Million has supported the combination of huge expenses for the Iraq War and tax cuts for the extremely wealthy that has helped to drive our economy into the dirt. He has supported Bush economic policies and rejection of Wall Street oversight for the past eight years. Palin can only repeat what McCain tells her to say about the economy and based on his actions, his claims of economic insight and reform are nothing but distortions and empty rhetoric.

Irony   September 16th, 2008 4:28 pm ET

Are you kidding? The Keating 5 did great things for us in the past! We need more of their kind of shady deals. I'm all for making only a very few profit off the backs of many.

McCain will help us solve all our problems and he always tells the truth!

I'm can play at opposite day politics today too!

Roger   September 16th, 2008 4:28 pm ET

Shades of Herbert Hoover!! McCain is talking the same talk Hoover did back in 1929 and we all know how that turned out! The only chance we have is with an Obama/Biden administration. McCain/Palin are more of the same old tired Republican crap we have endured the past 8 years and we certainly can't afford 4 more!!

Obama for America!!

georgia independent   September 16th, 2008 4:28 pm ET

Why does McCain continue to say that he is "going to make a difference" – where has he been for the last 26 #%#^ years?

Where? Oh yeah, talking to his buddies with Keating... Good stuff McShame.

Jennifer   September 16th, 2008 4:28 pm ET

Obama tells the TRUTH! He is a man of God.

Deb in Vegas   September 16th, 2008 4:28 pm ET

Senators McCain and Obama:

Stop the finger pointing...tell me how you're going to fix the economy. It's kind of a moot point to argue who's responsible. Seems like a lot of wasted energy. I, personally, don't give a rat's butt who's responsible. I just want to know what each of you are going to do to fix it so I can make an informed decision on November 4th.

The same for every other issue out there on the table. I don't care who's responsible...just tell me what you're going to do.

Capablanca   September 16th, 2008 4:27 pm ET

I think people should stop listening to what Obama say and to see what he will do. His plan for more tax for business will make the economy worst. Common people, how dumb would you have to be?

MIKE chicago   September 16th, 2008 4:27 pm ET

Those that say Obama doesnt offer specifics and details of his plan.. At least he has a clue of what is going on and he his proposing ideas to solve the problems...McShame has no clue nor does he any plan to solve anything. Forget about party politics and race...McCain said twice this year that the economy is strong and he always pick a good time to do so.

John   September 16th, 2008 4:27 pm ET

Obama already did this to Hillary. Undermining the more qualified person that will be president.

What's happened since?

Hillary voters are incensed at Obama's scorched earth policy. They're holding back.

It's amazing, the hubris that Obama has, to try and instill such an unhopeful message that will taint McCain's presidency.

At Obama's going rate, he'll have the highest unfavorables ever if for some reason he is elected, to polarize so much of McCain's supporters.
McCain-Palin 2008

Bruce   September 16th, 2008 4:26 pm ET

McCain = Herbert Hoover.
For those of who do not know who hoover was ...google him....McCain is the 21st century version.

Mario fl   September 16th, 2008 4:26 pm ET

I believe you. This man McCain is getting senile, say anything over lies and lies with the pit-bull with lipstick, what a pair

Sarah   September 16th, 2008 4:26 pm ET

This is really a serious matter...
I know that I will pay more taxes under Obama as compared to Bush or McCain. However, the choice now is between saving America or allowing it to collapse forever

We have no choice...Either Obama or goodbye America...
We will become a third Wold country

Hypocracy has no bounds   September 16th, 2008 4:26 pm ET

wow seriously all you obama people who are falling inline like lemmings are part of the problem. Like the republicans are. Both parties are at fault. Greenspan is at fault. Biden who has been in congress longer than McCain is at fault.

4/5 senators who have been in Congress the longest are Democrats, what change are they talking about. Sounds like McCain.

Only people not supporting any party can see the light but with all this dribble that OBAMA and McCAIN puts out is worthless especially when neither of them would really effect the economy. People really need to look up the Commander and Chief does.

Shaun   September 16th, 2008 4:26 pm ET

The top ten percent pay 70 percent of federal taxes, so for joey from nc let's no think the rich don't get taxed, and if you are at poverty level most likely you recieve most of your federal tax back when you file your taxes. The rich have to pay in. And to blame democrats or republicans for the economy is stupid, is it the governments fault the private sector is messing up, should we just ask the government to regulate everything, bail out everything, and become the next soviet union? If you think Obama wont raise your taxes your a fool, and if he taxes companies anymore do you think you won't feel it when the price of everything you buy goes up because of the new taxes on business. Companies are going to make their profit, you are just going to have to pick up their extra tax bill.

rory ryan   September 16th, 2008 4:25 pm ET

Approx.202 seats to 232 hardly what I call in charge. Blame blame Shame shame.

Jack - DSM, Iowa   September 16th, 2008 4:25 pm ET

I am amazed that Obama has the chutzpah to speak out against the financial industry when he has raked in millions of campaign donations from these very people. Yet again, Obama is saying one thing in public and something completely different in private. This is why I do not trust him.

Bulldog   September 16th, 2008 4:25 pm ET

Don't let the Republicans and the McCain camp to blame democrats for the current financial crisis. It is clearly the Republicans who support free market and deregulation that they have pushed through as bills which has had a direct role in America's financial crisis. The democrats have tried to put more regulation in the markets to prevent our financial crisis only to be blocked by Republicans. So for Republicans to blame Democrats is an outright LIE.

Ian Minneapolis, MN   September 16th, 2008 4:25 pm ET

Like Obama said, I doubt mccain lobbyist staff is going to work day and night just to put themselves out of busness.

Obama Now More Than Ever   September 16th, 2008 4:25 pm ET

McCain is continuing to show he has no clue about the economy. At the beginning of his campaign he actually said he didn't understand the economy completely and needed to learn more. Just yestersay as the stock market hit an all-time low, the housing market is in shambles, large corporations are planning huge layoffs and financial institutions are failing...John McCain was quoted saying " our economy is fundamentally strong"....how out-of-touch can one person be? His answer to fix the economy is to form a Washington committee to study our economic situation. Wow, I thought he was not going to let Washington run our country anymore. All he can do is form a committee? Thanks John – that will really help me pay my bills, get my healthcare plan fixed to cover basic items, and lower the ridiculous gas prices of the oil companies that are financing your campaign. You are not leadership material. It is time for to retire and send your media-scared VP back to the Alaska land of corruption!

Pepou   September 16th, 2008 4:25 pm ET

McCain is clueless about the economy. Palin ? An unqualified liar. Go Obama !

Becky   September 16th, 2008 4:24 pm ET

"We're going to put an end to the reckless conduct, corruption and unbridled greed that has caused a crisis on Wall Street," McCain said.
____________

So McCain and Palin are going to drop out of the race? Sweet.

jm for sc   September 16th, 2008 4:24 pm ET

KG, what policy of Carter did Obama go back to?

We need to stop repeating lies behind McCain and his supporters and vote for the candidate that speaks to our needs.

I would rather Carter's policies that Bush any day.

rory ryan   September 16th, 2008 4:23 pm ET

KG are you for the government bailouts?

Bulldog   September 16th, 2008 4:23 pm ET

"In my administration we're going to hold people on Wall Street responsible and we're going to enact and enforce reforms that make sure that these outrages — and they are outrages — never happen in the first place," McCain said

But wait, this is completely opposite of what McCain has supported and stood for the last 20 plus years.

The Gramm-Leach-Bliley Financial Services Modernization Act of 1999 deregulated the financial system by opening up competition among banks, securities and insurance companies and allowed commercial and investment banks to merge.

John McCain voted for this bill along with the entire Republican Senate. The Senate Democrats objected against it. Phil Gramm introduced this bill and was John McCain’s top economic advisor before he was forced to resign but still gives McCain economic advice to this day.

John McCain has a direct responsibility in the financial crisis we are in today along with the banking lobbyists he is employing in his campaign. McCain has supported the very philosophy and mentality that has caused the economy we are facing today. Is that what you want? Another 4 years of this? Look it up, McCain has truly supported DEREGULATION throughout his career and now all of a sudden he is FOR regulation. He’s blowing smoke and just telling more lies.

Al   September 16th, 2008 4:22 pm ET

Obama's position makes sense to me. It is becoming increasingly clearer that the Bush/McCain/Palin three ring circus really has no clue about substantive issues.

Lynn:60 yr old Obama supporter   September 16th, 2008 4:22 pm ET

What a crock: the man who is going to take on Washington with his lobbyists advisors is now suggesting a commission of Washington insiders to solve the financial crisis.

McCain has not only lost his bearings, he has no plan and spouts meaningless rhetoric.

Jack   September 16th, 2008 4:21 pm ET

Wow listening to KG the de-regulator one has to wonder what happened to his education since regulation is what brought us out of the last republican mess (the Great Depression) and their getting rid of regulations have contributed to the current economic mess.

Can a Democratic congress do more than it has in the past 2 years yes, without a president that veto's good legislation and without a filibustering republican senate. It's time the Democrats took the republicans up on their former threat and got rid of the filibuster like Mitch Mc suggested with the Alito court appointment.

diane08   September 16th, 2008 4:21 pm ET

KG wrote:
"Obama's answer "regulate, regulate, regulate."

But KG, you're forgetting that the Republican's answer for everything: DE-regulate, DE-regulate, DE-regulate, is what got us in this mess to begin with. Washington's de-regulation of the housing industry allowed shady mortgage lenders to run rampant, taking advantage of people, and now all of those failed loans are causing the financial industry to collapse. De-regulation sounds good in theory, but in practice, it's a complete disaster.

Terry   September 16th, 2008 4:21 pm ET

I can't wait for Obama to lose and go away.
The DEMS picked to wrong person. They should have picked Hillary.
She has the experience for the job not Obama.

Maybe Next Time!!!!!!!!!!!

GEEZER/GIDGET '08   September 16th, 2008 4:21 pm ET

So, NOW, the Geezer who has been in Congress for over 20 years, now decides the economy is "broken" and Geezer and Gidget will fix it?

Why haven't you already started fixing it say 8 years ago, when republicans had control of the WH and Congress???

I forgot about Gidget, is going to "shake things up". Now she is an expert on finances. Does that mean she visited the bank lobby in Wasilla??

I am glad Obama told him it was "broken" because, your are an old Geezer and your judgment is gone!

Dave   September 16th, 2008 4:21 pm ET

Obama is number three on the fannie mae, freddie mack campaign finance roster. Number one is Chris Dodd. How is it that one of the largest receivers of funds from these companies which are responsible for alot of the current difficulties say McCain would make things worse?

Bell   September 16th, 2008 4:20 pm ET

i have a question although it has nothing to do with this. I would like to know how Gov Palin would run this country from home like she did as Gov? I would also like to know more about her son being given the choice of jail or Army for damaging school buses. Can anyone shed some light on these questions?

Michelle, St. Louis, MO   September 16th, 2008 4:20 pm ET

If it wasn't for the poor, the rich would not be rich. It's our turn now to get a break. The rich has been getting breaks for the past eight years. It's time for us to get a break now.

ETTA   September 16th, 2008 4:20 pm ET

Obama - be a real leader. Take some campaign money and host an ECONOMIC SUMMIT for the AMERICAN PEOPLE, to be televised on the major networks. Invite the top economic experts in the country (Robert Rubin, Laura Tyson, Stiglitz, Krugman, Marici, etc.), and lay out the problems and develop specific solutions. Obama–you will be the moderator as if you were the President with your advisers. Think out of the box - take a risk, and trust the AMERICAN people to want to understand this crisis. Grant us some credit - talk with us and not "down" to us.

paul mooney   September 16th, 2008 4:20 pm ET

In an earlier blog, Carly Fiorina stated that none of the candidates could run a corporation. She is right as Washington had continuously spent way more than they collect in revenue. No president can do anything to fix this economy unless thay do start running it like a business. Can you even imagine government being run like a business? If it was now, it would have filed Chapter 11 a long, long time ago. It's time for the two candidates to present their plans and stop the negativity in their ads. Stop the name calling and lets get down to the business of righting this country.

Ron   September 16th, 2008 4:19 pm ET

Obama and the democrats have controlled the senate and congress for the last two years. why have they done nothing to help the public?how many democrats have voted for the bush policies? why don't they quit with the hypocrisy and tell it like it happened.

Sarah Bell   September 16th, 2008 4:19 pm ET

Wait wait wait, are you talking about the fundamentals of the economy? Because if you are, McCain would make the economy stronger. You know, the fundamentals. As described my McCain, the fundamentals of our economy are us. The workers. So if we all stay strong, the economy will be strong! Simple as that. Duhh. Sorry Obama, but knowing about the economy and having Harvard/Columbia education doesnt make you right for the job. Not knowing about the economy and finishing close to last at your naval academy, well, now that's a maverick!

Lesley   September 16th, 2008 4:19 pm ET

McCain seems to be re-inventing himself on everything in the last 24 hours, taking Obama's positions and words and using them as if he invented the whole thing. Obama/Biden need to keep on top of the McCain campaign and not let up. McCain is changing his strategy and hoping the American people won't notice. Will they? Stranger things have happened. Let's hope they don't happen again. This is not 2000 nor 2004.

arun   September 16th, 2008 4:18 pm ET

Dear KG

Even McCain is now talking about regulation. The US economy has been doing great for over 100 years except for the last 8 years when de-regulation was the mantra. Guess what happened ? Go bone up on some economics and then come back to the table.

America think for you   September 16th, 2008 4:18 pm ET

I am a Democrat and I am voting for McCain. Oh no! Why are you betraying Barack? You know why! Because John McCain had invented the Black Barry. I love my blackberry. McCain know Washington for 30 years, Barack is new to Washington. McCain is smart and does not understand the economy and I am thrill to vote for McCain. McCain is rich and Barack is not. McCain has many houses and Barack does not. If I Americans get evicted from their homes they can get a room each from McCain. McCain is the real deal that will shake up Washington and himself because he is an insider. Sarah Palin is a foreign policy expert because she can see Russia from Alaska Joe Biden cannot see Russia from Delaware. This is why I am not voting for McCain.

Jim   September 16th, 2008 4:18 pm ET

In every democracy in the world, an administration with failed policies like those of Bush/Cheney/McCain/Palin would be voted out of office by a landslide majority!

That's how democracy works. No third term for failure! Rotate the loyal opposition into power to change things; not keep the same party in power with different leaders. Don't be distracted by biographies, POW stories, claims of experience, racial feelings, religious issues, lipstick, guns, sexism, cultural wars, etc. Vote the rascals out!

FactCheck   September 16th, 2008 4:17 pm ET

> No President can make an economy better or worse on his own.

True but a competent President can give a huge boost to a suffering economy. Look at what happened to the Dow Jones Avg. the day Bill Clinton took office.

Matt   September 16th, 2008 4:17 pm ET

All we're hearing is this from you McCain supporters:

"WAAAAAAAH, they're going to stop corporations from abusing the working people of America, pocketing all our tax cuts, refusing to providce health insurance and fair wages, WAAAAAAAAAAAH! Oh wait, I know, let's just threaten to cut the work force in retaliation for the people voting for a better life rather than allowing themselves to be mindlessly hearded towards the bolt gun of Reaganomics!"

Sorry. You already did cut the work force. It might have just been negligence and not intentional, but that's what your policies led to. Threatening us won't get you very far...you're jsut poking the bear.

Nik   September 16th, 2008 4:17 pm ET

READ THE ARTICLE IN THE MICHIGAN MESSENGER REGARDING THE LAW SUIT FILED BY THE OBAMA CAMPAIGN AGAINST THE GOP WHO ARE TRYING TO USE HOME FORECLOSURE AS A BASIS TO DENY THE RIGHT TO VOTE IN NOVEMBER!

Jack 64 year old   September 16th, 2008 4:16 pm ET

One only has to look at the direction the economy has taken since President Bill Clinton gave us a $3 Trillion Dollar Surplus and see if you want to continue the Bush/McCain plan of going into debt.

John anb George are all to happy to criticize ordinary Americans for borrowing too much but, what about their borrowing over $ 9 trillion dollars with more to come if McCain is elected?

John McCain says it's time for a change and he's right, it's time to vote for Obama/Biden and let John get back to inventing things like the Blackberry!

ghost   September 16th, 2008 4:16 pm ET

McCain thinks things are going OK with the economy. That means by the end of his first term only the rich will own there own homes or have jobs.

Puff   September 16th, 2008 4:16 pm ET

Why don't you shut up Nobama, you have no idea.... and quit all the harping on McCain. You are such a girlie man.

Reagan   September 16th, 2008 4:15 pm ET

Obama is C-L-U-E-L-E-S-S and he knows it.

At least John Edwards had the integrity to admit that people from D.C. swooned him into running even though he said he wasn't ready. He said he let it go to his head and started believing it. He knows Obama is getting this same sort of false worship and Obama is going to take it hard when he is not elected and at 450 million dollars of donations wasted!

Obama cannot afford to lose, and that is why he will do anything and everything to win.

We the people, need to make sure tight regulations are in place BEFORE the voting begins. I do not want to see more of this ganging up type mentality that went on at the voters booths that went on with HRC and Obama in the primary elections.

We also need to be prepared for violence. If Obama loses there will be retaliations!

Stevo   September 16th, 2008 4:15 pm ET

Now this guy is smart. What he says is true. Now some bozos will not vote for him coz of color but he is an intelligent man who like Clinton will clean up George Bush's mess. Mcwar, Mcsurge, Mcpow Mclyin about economy will only make things worse. IF he aint talking about war then he is just a lost soul. No way, no how, no Mcain, no Palin. Nuff said!

mitchell   September 16th, 2008 4:15 pm ET

we know barack. mac dont know 'bout economy stuff. he get a good 'conomist ,like phil 'the whiner' graham,to do some more dergulatin'.

'rednecks' for obama member
obama '08

chas alabama   September 16th, 2008 4:15 pm ET

Why does McCains posters say "country first", instead of "America first"

MARY   September 16th, 2008 4:15 pm ET

I am very saddened. We have been paying a life insurance for my husband through AIG for more than 26 years. Now it may not even be there for me when something happens to my husband. That was money I was counting on to live on. Will Obama or McCain please tell me who is going to guarantee that that money is going to be there for me when I need it.

I'm not married to a millionaire. I don't have 9 houses. I want to know which presidential candidate is going to fix this mess we are in. I am 60 years old; am still working but don't plan to work the rest of my life. One of you will get my vote. Which one will it be? Who will fix the MESS the republicans have created.

No one regulated Wall Street. But, our government is always ready and willing to bail out banks, mortgate companies, etc. Who will bail me out?

Michael   September 16th, 2008 4:15 pm ET

Bill Buckley said he would rather be governed by the first 100 names in the Boston directory than the faculty of Harvard. This would include, at the moment, an editor-in-chief of the Harvard Law Review, a state congressman, who never took a stand on anything, voting present an overwhelming number of times and an 18 month senator without a record of reaching across the aisle to do anything or for that matter a record of doing anything at all. Sarah Palin governed a state. Obama was a factotum for ACORN.

IAIAIAIAIAIAIAIAIAIAIAI   September 16th, 2008 4:14 pm ET

T H I S--I S--T W O-–Y EA R S --O F---D E MO C R A T I C--

M A J O R I T Y---IN --- CO N G R E S S-----

Anyonmous   September 16th, 2008 4:14 pm ET

Obamas economic ideas are not new or even never been tried. Do some research America. He does not have new ideas.

You do know congress holds the purse strings of the United States govt and if you look you will find the recent decline matches up with the Dems taking over congress. Very fortunate for them they mess up and then blame Pres Bush

Bush is Bad......McCain is Bush.....McCain is Bush
WE GET IT OK.
I thought you were an ivy school lawyer. How about some words of wisdom. All I hear is more hate and blame.

You on the left seem to now to have hate and venom so deep in your souls you can't live without it can you? It happens with all haters. You now live to hate now don't you???

Its so sad that you guys on the left just blame and hate, hate and blame. You guys have such an emotional investment in this race you are setting yourself up for such disappointment no matter who wins.
If this really is many young voters first time getting involved in a national election it sure shows... it really shows.

rusty   September 16th, 2008 4:13 pm ET

Obama is right. McCain's idea of helping the economy is to ignore it, and to get us into even more foreign policy fiascos than we are already in. He is a one trick pony folks. We have seven weeks to figure that out.

Phil in KC   September 16th, 2008 4:13 pm ET

4 more years of laissez faire attitude toward business, coupled with further deregulation would be catastrophic. We can't afford it.

Rudy NYC   September 16th, 2008 4:13 pm ET

I agree. Judging from today's comments, it is time for McCain to find yet another "top economic adviser" for himself. Judging from his failed choices for adviser, it would seem McCain knows even less about the economy than he has already admitted.

Sweetie   September 16th, 2008 4:12 pm ET

Obama once again shows just how naive he is!

He offers no real answer, other then to go back to what just about destroyed our economy when Jimmy Carter held office-I'm old enough to remember-I was trying to raise my family during that time and it was HELL PURE HELL! Interest rates at 17%!

Vote for the sane team if you want to see the economy improve!

McCain/Palin-08-In a Landslide Victory for all!

Arizona   September 16th, 2008 4:12 pm ET

Im happy Americans want Mcsame.At least in the next few months this behemoth of a country will be toppled by China.

Your Banks and Insurance companies are collapsing still your economy is sound.Please what parameters do you measure dying economy with

Obama/Biden '08

Illinois Blue Dog   September 16th, 2008 4:12 pm ET

To KG –
Yes, the Democrats have been in charge of the Congress since Jan. 2007. However the Democrats have a razor slim 51-49 margin (if you include Joe Lieberman). Therefore, in order to get any legislation into law the Democrats need to:
1) prevent a filibuster in the Senate that would kill the legislation (it requires 60 votes to break a fillibuster in case you forgot)
2) Get President Bush to sign the legislation into law instead of vetoing it.
Its shocking the Democrats haven't been able to get much done in the past year and eight months with President Bush always so willing to sign Democratic sponsored legislation into law. Think about that this next time you want to blame Congress for our current mess instead of placing the blame where it belongs – at the feet of President Bush and the Republican party.

Tony   September 16th, 2008 4:12 pm ET

The only people who don't know that McCain and Palin would make things worse are the KOOL-AID drinking republicans, and white women who are still ticked about Hillary and threatening to vote for McCain.

Palin runs her mouth about family values and doing so much for people who have children with disabilites. Every city she has traveled to so far, her husband has been right there with ehr. Who the hell is taking care of the baby and her other children who are in school?????? It sure isn't mommy and daddy.

She shouts her innocence from the rooftops regardign TrooperGate, yet she sues to try to halt the investigation, claiming that "Obama Operatives" are out to get her. Funny how this investigation has been goinig on for over a year, LONG before she was even considered to be VP.

Yet, there are still those who re so easily led, and even more easily fooled, who will vote for them anayway. Pathetic

Dan, Maryland   September 16th, 2008 4:11 pm ET

John, tell Cindy to get the moss out of her wallet and help out Uncle Sam. I am happy to admit lower taxes are a good thing, but the argument from your economic advisor about Obama saying "when has there ever been tax increases in an economic downturn" can easily be reubuted by the statement "when have we ever had tax cuts in war time?" Tell her not to make such a flippant comment and if you really want to help America John you and Cindy can afford to help out the economy or Uncle Sam's mounting debt...I certainly know where I want you to put that 100 million.

S. Boatman   September 16th, 2008 4:11 pm ET

NEW MCCAIN SLOGAN * ANOTHER GREAT DEPRESSION YOU CAN BELIEVE IN! *

J L   September 16th, 2008 4:11 pm ET

ALL - THOSE -WHO -SAY -OBAMA -DOES -NOT -OFFER -SPECIFICS -DID- YOU- LISTEN- TO -THE -AUDIO- CLIP???

IF -NOT- THEN -SHUT -UP- AND -ADMIT- YOU- DON'T LISTEN -TO -SPECIFICS!!!

The Weatherman   September 16th, 2008 4:11 pm ET

I don't recall anytime during the Bush presidency where the Prime Interest rate was 23% as it was during the Carter presidency. Anyone who doesn't remember should get no more than a half a vote if any.

Gail   September 16th, 2008 4:10 pm ET

N.O.W. (the National Organization of Woman) endorsed Obama this morning. CNN – why aren't you reporting that !! ??

John McCain has no shame.

Obama/Biden 'till 2024

Terry From Texas   September 16th, 2008 4:10 pm ET

KG,
I agree with you 100 percent.
Why can't the Obama supporters see that!!!!!!!!!

jo   September 16th, 2008 4:09 pm ET

real issue, real knowledge you are my man Mr. O
make sure Mcsame don't change the subject to lipstick.......

norb   September 16th, 2008 4:09 pm ET

The former mayor of Wasilla has decided to invade Russia. Ding Dong, Avon calling!

independent   September 16th, 2008 4:09 pm ET

i totally agree with obama. as an right-leaning independent, i'm totally over it and ready to see what the dems can do. they did awesome under their last president.

Team America   September 16th, 2008 4:07 pm ET

Sorry Hussein Osama, but I'm choosing the experience of a McCain/Palin administration over a community organizer. If you want to do your part for the economy Osama, vote yes for drilling off our own shores, so we can start to utilize our own resources. Resources that will bring new long term jobs and prosperous growth. Just flinging mud at McCain and Palin and not addressing solutions to problems is why you will lose this election.

Candy West Virginia   September 16th, 2008 4:07 pm ET

tennessee – aren't you and your kind (rethuglicans) tired of lying? Doesn't it grow weary trying to think of new things to say in support of your candidates? Isn't it shameful when day after day the lies your campaign tells are discovered and called out? And what happens is in your desperation to support the candidate you clearly know in your heart is wrong you make up anything, think of anything? What a job, I don't envy you and your kind.

RH   September 16th, 2008 4:07 pm ET

Not only does unchecked capitalism not work in the long run, it's immoral. Its defender are merely those who are willing to be exploited at every level in exchange for the lop-sided opportunity to one day become the exploiters themselves. To oppose government regulation of business is to place larger economic responsibility in the hands of corporate fatcats. And just look around at how well they've handled that responsibility. This is closely related to the fallacy of American freedom, but I'll leave that be.

Independent for McCain   September 16th, 2008 4:07 pm ET

Can't wait to buy my new toaster with that huge savings I'm getting from the tax cut!!!! Thanks Obama and Biden your great! Such doom and gloom on this board. Why does it always have to be someone's fault if something bad happens. Do you really think that the GOP is always to blame and the Dems/Libs do everything right 100% of the time? Come on folks. It's not always the gov't's fault when things go wrong. Consolidation and bankruptcy are actually things that should happen in a capitalist country. The bigger should buy out the smaller. Companies who take risks with risky loans, etc... should reap the rewards if their a success and face the punishment if they aren't. That's life. Now how is that McCain's fault again?

Nads   September 16th, 2008 4:06 pm ET

Mccain is such a snollygoster.

Tina   September 16th, 2008 4:06 pm ET

George W and John McCain won't be happy until this country is
FLAT BROKE.

STOP THE MADNESS ON NOVEMBER 4th.......VOTE OBAMA

The REAL and ONLY CHANGE MAKER.

I Invented the McMuffin... and fire   September 16th, 2008 4:06 pm ET

Why not deregulate EVERYTHING so we can see the same drastic improvements that we've witnessed in the mortgage lending biz... that worked out well now didn't it. The corporations would NEVER screw the public.

TKCROW   September 16th, 2008 4:06 pm ET

I guess Obama's plan to fund the Great Lakes fund with a rollback of the oil company tax breaks (thereby increasing the price of gas to every American) is a great idea and will improve the economy. Obama, the only economy it will improve would be the Great Lakes fund which is in your backyard and sounds very much like a pork barell expendture to me. Keep talking out of both sides of your mouth on issues like this Obama, it makes for great talking points now and then when the left wing media looks back at this election and evaluates how in the world you lost the election after such a commanding lead – this will just be another notch on the gun that cost you the election.

Vernon   September 16th, 2008 4:06 pm ET

Agree country is hurting. But falling apart? Come on!!
We all still have better living than over half this world.
I work in a factory...been doing it all my life. I've down sized in order to make ends meet. But I'm not going to wine and cry like a baby because people think this country is falling apart.
People need to get facts. And getting anything truthful from the press?
Not unless we get some changes put in on how they report it.
There masters at spinning what ever they want.
Just look at CNN's resent caption they put in.
" Palin not qualified to run a company "
Read the story..and of course she is not able to run a major company.
that is not where her skills lie.
This is what we are fed on a constant daily barage from the press.

Obama Campaign   September 16th, 2008 4:06 pm ET

Hasn't Joe Biden been part of the Washington, DC scene for the past 36 years?

Jerry   September 16th, 2008 4:06 pm ET

KG – The Democrats have been in charge of Congress for 20 months (since Jan 2007). Before that, the Republicans were in charge of Congress for 12 YEARS.

It's absurd how Republicans expect the Democrats to have cleaned up their mess in less than two years, while at the same time, trying to blame them for that mess too!!

bob in L.A.   September 16th, 2008 4:06 pm ET

No President can make an economy better or worse on his own.
If they have the backing of the house and senate, they can affect certain decisions on what economic plans are put in place.
There is only one possible way to fix the economy- spend less, take in more money and stop paying for luxuries like a useless war.

M.Serafin   September 16th, 2008 4:06 pm ET

KG, funny McCain wanna regulate to too, and he will even look into Ceo's pay stubs...

This is the only place in the world, where a company, like walmart, can break the workers, treat them bad and still get away with it. They dont even have to pay you a wage so you can live..

And just because we have been strong for 100+ years don't mean much, evil empire falls, just look at the roman empire and the nazi empire...
The republican empire is over, thank god..

Stacy from Loudoun County VA   September 16th, 2008 4:05 pm ET

I am an Obama supporter but both his plan and McCain’s plan will not reduce the national debt. I think McCain’s is more destructive however and will continue the rift of haves and have nots. But the one thing, whoever becomes President, will have to focus on is getting this country back in the black. Because the most detrimental thing dragging this economy is the mountain of debt that has occurred since G.W. Bush became President. Just calling them like I see them.

Tim   September 16th, 2008 4:05 pm ET

That's right KG....Dems in congress haven't fixed our problems over the past two years. That's because of the constant repuglican interference. And it's typical of a Rep supporter like you to think two years should be enough time to fix the damage repuglicans have done over the past eight years and more. You have no case. Obama isn't using Carter's economic plans, you don't even have your facts straight. Once again....typical and that's why this country is such a mess. Go waste your vote on McBush, You must be profitting from it in some way. The rest of us aren't!! Your party is just way out of touch with the majority. You're about to be brought back down to earth. If your nose wasn't in the clouds all the time, you might see how an average American lives.

OBAMA 08

INDEPENDANT VET   September 16th, 2008 4:05 pm ET

LOOK AT A CITY , THERE WAS THIS FARM AN IT HAS A STORE AJOINING FOR YEARS , NOW THE 2 BROTHERS HAVE SPLIT , ONE HAS THE FARM AN THE OTHER THE STORE.

THE ONE WITH THE FARMM WENT AND PAINTED OBAMA ON THE ROOF OF HIS BARN . SINCE THAT HAS TAKEN PLACE PEOPLE HAVE BOYCOTED STORE .

JUST GOES TO SHOW YOU HOW PEOPLE REACT TO SOME POLITICION THAT THINKS HE IS OUR NEXT ALMIGHTY GOD .

SOME ARE NOT READY TO TRADE THERE BIBLES IN FOR THE QUARM . WRIGHT REZKO . # ABC NEWS JERKS THAT DISCARDED THERE LAPEL PINS TO SHOW SUPPORT FOR THERE HOLLYWOOD DARLING . THEY PROBABLEY HAVE ALREADY GOT THERE QUARMS.

SO UNTILL , DRILL BABY DRILLL MAVRICKS ALLL THE WAY.

JUAN C AR LOS   September 16th, 2008 4:04 pm ET

S E N A TO R :::::::::::::O B A M A ::::::::::I ::::::::::::::F AU L T:::::::::::R E I D::::::::::

P E L O S I:::::::::::::A N D:::::::::T HE :::::::::R E S T:::::::::::O F::::::::::::::::Y O U R

:::::::::D O::::::::::N O T H I N G:::::::::::M A J O R I T Y:::::::::I N:::::::::::::::::

C O N G R E S S::::::::::::::::::D E M O C R A T S

no trickle down...   September 16th, 2008 4:04 pm ET

Oh except that McCain in the last 24 hours has changed his tune... and is now in favour of making the economy work for the American people, not just big business. So why was he not doing this the last 25 years 364 days...?!

His campaign slogan should be "Me Too".
25 years and 364 days of no change, doesn't make him the change agent!

Enlightened Voter   September 16th, 2008 4:04 pm ET

Alan Greenspan, the former Chairman of the Federal Reserve, said on Monday that Mccain's economic plan would be disastrous for the economy and actually destroy it.

Tina   September 16th, 2008 4:04 pm ET

GO OBAMA

John McBUSH..............John McSAME

NO WAY
NO HOW
NO McBUSH

Illinois Blue Dog   September 16th, 2008 4:04 pm ET

Does McCain think we can being to balance our $400 billion deficit or begin to pay off our $9 trillion national debt by cutting taxes for the wealthiest 2% of the population? Oh yeah, cut all earmarks says Sen. McCain. Wait though; there were only $18 billion of earmarks in the most recent budget, which wouldn't even put a dent in that $400 billion deficit. And I won't even discuss that money-pit in Iraq which is putting a hole in all of our collective wallets. We all need to pitch in our fair share (including the wealthiest 2%) and stop whining. When the average citizen doesn't pay their bills, guess what, they go into a deep financial crisis. Sound familiar? Someone needs to balance the budget and pay off the debt sooner or later, otherwise our grandchildrens' grandchildren will still be paying off this generation's financial debt. A financial crisis like the one we are experiencing calls for true leadership, not for a president and a political party that told us to "go shopping" or that likes to talk about lipstick on a pig rather than the issues that face us.

Anonymous   September 16th, 2008 4:03 pm ET

McCain's senior domestic policy advisor on the economy:

Addressing the nation’s economic crisis, Holtz-Eakin told reporters traveling with the campaign “there’s no magic solution. And I don’t think that it’s at this moment imperative to write down exactly what the plan has to be.” He also said a president isn’t someone who needs to be heavily involved in policy specifics, which should be handled by “quality” advisers,
--------------

By far, the most important and frightening statement made this political season.

They have no plan, and the president is not heavily involved in policy specifics... Sound like anyone we know?

AMERICAN MORNING   September 16th, 2008 4:03 pm ET

Everyone should watch this morning's version. McCain and Biden were back to back.

McCain spoke in very general and angry terms.

Biden rattled off statistics and specifics of how to achieve them.

You decide.

john   September 16th, 2008 4:03 pm ET

he would i agree mccain is out of touch

Mary   September 16th, 2008 4:03 pm ET

I'm sick and tired of people saying the Democrats have "been in charge of Congress" for the past two years and haven't done anything. They have only a slight majority, not veto proof, and the Republicans have stood in the way of everything the Democrats have tried to do. Until we get more Democrats in Congress, they don't have the "power to fix these issues." The Rebuplicans are still in charge, until November, that is!!

ron   September 16th, 2008 4:03 pm ET

Why would the Mcsame brand be any different...are you kiddin' me...

Ken in Dallas   September 16th, 2008 4:02 pm ET

Taxes are only a small part of how an economic outcome happens. What matters more is what you do with the money. If you invest public money wisely, it will produce a return, just as it does in the private sector. If you spend your money on stupid things, you'll lose it forever.

For instance, look at the Iraq war. We've already spent the better part of a trillion dollars on that undertaking, and we'll probably have spent the rest of a trillion before it's done. What will our trillion dollars buy us? Anything of real value? If we face facts, we'll admit that Bush's plan to use Iraq as a platform from which to transform the entire Middle East is nothing more than a fantasy, and without that, there's really no prospect of a return on the Iraq investment. Staying in Iraq amounts to throwing good money after bad.

Now imagine an administration that keeps us in Iraq indefinitely, and launches aggressions against additional countries like Iran and Russia. Is there really anything we want that we can get by fighting with Iran and Russia? Starting wars is economically unproductive, especially if you have no intention of conquering and pillaging the conquered lands.

A McCain presidency would be an economic catastrophe.

w.l. jones   September 16th, 2008 4:02 pm ET

It appears a certain candidate economic policy for the country is about like traveling in deep space without sterring jet. Said enough.

kim   September 16th, 2008 4:02 pm ET

kg are you warped?dems have had control over congress for the last 2 years out of 8 so yes the republians are at fault. I hate that it took nearly another depression to reveal the damage that the rePubs and their economic philosophy caused, but Im glad it is out in the open for the whole wide world to see. The headlines in the past few days was like giving the repubs a bath, the dirt has been washed off and now the whole republican party is standing there naked in the middle of the floor for the whole world to see. They had it coming.

Bruce   September 16th, 2008 4:02 pm ET

Bush tax cuts cost us trilliions. Deregulation, started by Bush the elder in 1981 and brought to new heights by Bush the younger, cost us unkown amounts, possibly trillions. Savings and loan bailout and Enron meltdown have to included in this category. The war for profit has cost us billions. So I guess the plan was soaring deficits, a weak dollar, monumental national debt, rising unemployment, no energy alternatives, crumbling infrastructure, and all the while maintaining solid fundementals. Mission accomplished.

Que Quedas   September 16th, 2008 4:02 pm ET

it is funny that the democrats have been in power for the last two years and the thuglicans are trying to push blame to them......well the problem stems from before two years ago and because peoples loans started to default around two years ago.....others with adjustable mortgages have been stuck because of lessened property value and these deregulator rethugs let everything get out of wack......now we are in the dominoe effect of a bad economy......but for the thugs to try and put it on the 2 year democratic congress in absurd........but nice try

Anonymous   September 16th, 2008 4:02 pm ET

By the way, the Democrats have been in charge of Congress for the past two years. They've had the true power to fix these issues and have done absolutely nothing. Yet, they want you to blame this whole thing on the Republicans. Give me a break!!
-------------–

I'll give the Democrats 2% of the blame for being in control of Congress the last two years, albeit without a fillibuster-proof majority and with a veto-happy Repub in the WH.

The other 98% I'll give to the GOP, incontrol of the WH for the last eight years and Congress for twelve of the last fourteen.

Fair enough?

ron   September 16th, 2008 4:01 pm ET

I am waiting for one!!! repuklican to stand up and say that George Bush was good for this country!...

Hillary Democrat   September 16th, 2008 4:01 pm ET

Obama is wrong. If the democratic congress would have done something about the mortgage crisis 2 years ago we would not be in this mess. They were warned. It's the democratic congress who fault our economy is in a mess.

JusLaugh   September 16th, 2008 4:01 pm ET

Of course it would. He just tweaked a couple of lines in Bush's economic plan and called it "reform".

Those who can't see the danger in a McCain presidency are looking through biased eyes.

Liviu   September 16th, 2008 4:01 pm ET

KG, you are confusing Congress with Government!

Joe in MN   September 16th, 2008 4:00 pm ET

McCain would probably deregulate the financial sector just so we can sell it off to every country in the world, so we wouldn't have to be afraid of terrorists anymore...they would just own us.

Kel in Auburn, AL   September 16th, 2008 4:00 pm ET

It's amazing. Obama and his campaign tell the truth and catch so much heat for it. McCain lies, misleads, and puts forth disingenuous statements, and people eat it up.

If you care for hypocrisy, the GOP is your answer.

Arkansas Undertaker   September 16th, 2008 4:00 pm ET

Obama is exactly correct. The Republicans got us in this mess in the first place and now they want to elct another republican as President.

McCain Invented the Blackberry   September 16th, 2008 3:59 pm ET

So what if McCain thinks he doesn't know as much about the economy as he should? So what if Carly Fiorina thinks he isn't qualified to run Hewlett Packard?

The man INVENTED THE FREAKING BLACKBERRY!

There's nothing he can't do!

Nick - Arlington, VA   September 16th, 2008 3:59 pm ET

By the way, the Democrats have been in charge of Congress for the past two years. They've had the true power to fix these issues and have done absolutely nothing. Yet, they want you to blame this whole thing on the Republicans. Give me a break!!
----------------------------------–
KG – two years does not easily wipe away the 12 previous of republican rule and the current 8 of an incompetent republican president. Furthermore, it has been the LACK of regulation (including the Enron loophole, which was authored by McCain's top econ adviser Phil Graham) that has allowed these companies to get away with risky business ventures with out money.

STOP DILUTING YOURSELF

OBAMA-BIDEN 2008

deborah, WV   September 16th, 2008 3:59 pm ET

McCain has consistently supported deregulation of the financial markets - just like Bush, and it was this deregulation that caused the initial mortage meltdown that has now spawned the current financial mess. Economists are using words like catastrophic, grim, severe and depression .

Voting for McCain to help our economy would be like hiring the wolf to guard our sheep!

david   September 16th, 2008 3:58 pm ET

I agree with Obama!! Mccain cannot be trusted. I take that back, Mccain and Palin can't be trusted.

OBAMA/BIDEN 08...

Bama   September 16th, 2008 3:58 pm ET

Hello, Obama is not an economy expert......Someone wrote this speach for him. If you want to look at the problems with Fannie & Freddie, go look at the Democrats. The Republicans have been trying to reform these for years. The Dems will raise taxes on everyone. There is no way Obama is going to cut taxes for 80% of people in America. He can't do that plus have all the new programs he wants. I mean, come on, how gullible are you people.

Jasmine in Germany   September 16th, 2008 3:58 pm ET

It is clear that Obama knows more about the economy in this day and age than McCain does.

worldwisdom   September 16th, 2008 3:58 pm ET

John McCain, I'm still waiting on the HOW!!! HOW are you going to change those things. HOW are you going "to put an end to the reckless conduct, corruption and unbridled greed that has caused a crisis on Wall Street." Thats the difference to you and Obama. He says HOW is going to do it. John McCain is just empty rhetoric and pandering. Lacks any depth and is selfishly ambitious.

Vernon   September 16th, 2008 3:57 pm ET

Just love the way Obama can spin his web on change. Blame the Gov....but how about CEO of major companies. IT's there job to run a tight ship....and seems there all sinking. Most due to nothing but Greed.

George from Minneapolis   September 16th, 2008 3:57 pm ET

McCain has no specifics. NONE.

I said Thanks, but No Thanks to another 4 years of g.o.p. corruption, arrogance and incompetence   September 16th, 2008 3:57 pm ET

KG: The Democratic congress can't get past Bush' s vetos. Your comment shows that you are a firm believer in no regulation of the markets, just like your candidates next treasury secretary, Phil "you're a bunch of whinners, Graham.

Joel Miller   September 16th, 2008 3:57 pm ET

Obama is right. McCain is wrong despite his populist rhetoric. For the past 28 years, Republican presidents and Republican congresses have been destroying workers rights, shipping jobs overseas, deregulating banking and insurance, breaking and discrediting unions, trampling on OSHA, the NRLA, etc. McCain can sing the praises of American workers but he has never stood up for workers in auto, steel or other basic industries when their factories were shut down, when they were forced to take crippling cuts in wages and benefits and now with the financial crisis: what about those pensions? Its time for a change. Its time for imaginative solutions that provide real jobs and security for Americans.

Terry From Texas   September 16th, 2008 3:56 pm ET

KG
I agree with you 100 percent.
Why can't the Obama supporters see that!!!!!!!!!

John in Ohio   September 16th, 2008 3:56 pm ET

Given that McCain wants to increase tax cuts and increase spending, yeah, he'll be a disaster. You can't reduce revenue and increase expenditures. It just doesn't work.

THE VOICE OF COMMON SENSE (Independent Voter - Charlotte, NC)   September 16th, 2008 3:56 pm ET

McCain's plan is more of the same...Bush's version of "Trickle-Down Economics"...look at our economy now! Well, it sure seems to suggest that this doesn't work! The rich take those tax breaks and spend them on themselves, not the hard working poor of America!!! Just look at all the businesses that have gone to China in the last 8 years!!!

Sarah.....and my last name isn't Palin!   September 16th, 2008 3:56 pm ET

CNN it's about time to start talking about the healthcare policies for both candidates. NYTimes has a great Op Ed piece out today. Many Americans will see that we can't afford John McCain's healthcare plan. Employer based coverage will cease to exist. Please have your reporters talk about this.

Tim   September 16th, 2008 3:56 pm ET

Hmmm...McCain boasts that he's going to stop BS in washington, but he's been part of it for the last 30 years. I see a big fat lie here.

ricky from orlando   September 16th, 2008 3:56 pm ET

flip floping mcbush I mean mcsane i mean mc out of touch is a joke if he is elected i'll never vote again!

sandee in Portland   September 16th, 2008 3:55 pm ET

Well, if McCain wants to stop corruption and reckless conduct, then he should start with Palin suing to stop the investigation into "Troopergate". If, as she said, she has done nothing wrong, then why try to stop it. Let the truth show she's innocent. This is corruption at its best.

And, on the economy, I think history has shown it takes the democrats to put us on the right track. It took a democrat to pull us out of the Great Depression and Clinton took over an administration in a recession and pulled us out leaving a budget surplus which good ol' Bush has managed to squander and put us owing the most debt in history.

Go Obama! Go Democrats

Tainopower   September 16th, 2008 3:55 pm ET

AND THE COMMUNITY ORGANIZER IS GOING TO FIX IT? I HAVE MORE TRUST ON MCCAIN THE OSAMA.

Jackson   September 16th, 2008 3:55 pm ET

Yet Obama has no answers besides: Bigger Government.

Thank God half of America realizes what an idiot Obama is!!

I said Thanks, but No Thanks to another 4 years of g.o.p. corruption, arrogance and incompetence   September 16th, 2008 3:55 pm ET

You Americans are nothing but a bunch of whiners.
-Phil Graham- King of Deregulation and McCain's Secretary of the Treasury.

Pitbull without lipstick   September 16th, 2008 3:55 pm ET

He already has made the economy worse with that stupid Phil Gramm on his team and the fact that McCain wants to give tax cuts only to the super-rich. The reason we are in the trouble today with the economics is because of the GOPS!

LS   September 16th, 2008 3:55 pm ET

I don't doubt this about McCain one bit.

You people voting for McCain because of Palin, you need to realize that Palin is not qualified to be VP, nor is she more qualified for president than Obama.

The 'executive' terminology doesn't mean squat if Palin doesn't have the common sense. Anyone can be labled an executive, but doesn't do any good if they don't have common sense or the knowledge. Palin and McCain definately don't have what it takes.

Look at all of Palin's discrepancies in office as governor – look at Palin's level of education. In which there is no comparison to Obama and Biden's high level of educational achievements and educational Success.

We need smart leaders in the White House – not the some old crap.

Thanks

j.williams, san diego   September 16th, 2008 3:54 pm ET

the 2nd. biggest recipient of special interest money from freddie mac and fanny mae is OBAMA and he's only been in the Senate for two years (inexperience) and he wants to lecture us on economy ??? NO OBAMA-NO SOCIALISM-NO OBAMA.

gt   September 16th, 2008 3:54 pm ET

maybe at the hollywood fund raiser tonight , the dems will get enough money form hollywood fat cats to pay off the national debt.

SamSunny   September 16th, 2008 3:54 pm ET

John McCain has been a supporter of deregulation for years. John McCain's friend, and most probable selection for Sec. of Treasury, Phil Gramm, wrote the legislation on deregulation.

Deregulation and Wall Street lobbyist have caused this horrible financial mess we are in, starting with allowing the subprimes in the housing market. Phil Gramm is still John McCain's advisor on the economy. If you think John McCain will straighten up Wall Street you are living in a dream world.

Frank   September 16th, 2008 3:54 pm ET

Before folks of average means consider voting for McCain, they should check the historical record about who runs the economy better.

Over the past 60 years, Democrats have outperformed Republicans in producing economic growth. Taking an average eight-year span of time (a two-term presidency) a Democrat will produce 9.3% greater economic growth.

So don't vote your fears or your prejudices. For once, wise up and vote your pocketbook.

Rodger   September 16th, 2008 3:54 pm ET

McCain's comments made in Florida sounds like he is going to withdraw from the election.

Wendy in NC   September 16th, 2008 3:53 pm ET

All of you who say you don't know what Obama's plan is, need to watch his speech this morning. He outlined his core principle plans (the ones which we've known about for at least a year because we read his plans) in his speech this morning. He has taken these plans to Wall Street and Sec. of Treas., and anyone else who would take the time to listen. So stop saying he has no plan when it's been crystal clear to me for over a year.

The FISH that still STINKS   September 16th, 2008 3:53 pm ET

No not Palin, she's just a prop. McCain, Mr. "I don't know much about the economy" is the problem. Old man shouldn't be allowed to drive, let alone run the LARGEST ECONOMY IN THE WORLD!!!

Silence Dogood   September 16th, 2008 3:52 pm ET

Obama, what will you tell you corporate Lobbyist friends when they come to call? Will you still be promising the pure vision of fuzzy nonspecific utopia?

#1 – tell the lobbyists you lied and will not do what they say. (good luck)
OR
#2 – tell America you lied to them saying you did not take lobby money

Perhaps voters can help you avoid this situation.

Will-South Dakota   September 16th, 2008 3:52 pm ET

IT'S MORNING IN AMERICA........ARE YOU BETTER OFF AFTER JOHN McCAINS BEEN IN WHASHINGTON FOR 26 YEARS?

Debby   September 16th, 2008 3:52 pm ET

Wait Barack you benefited from one of those failing banks remember. I don't see you giving the people their money back that contributed. Raising taxes on small business making over 250 and less than a million to pay for tax breaks on others isn't going to jump start the economy. It will only force small companies to lay off or fold when their payroll, corporate and the capital gain taxes go up. Small business's are the stronghold of rural communties that keep local people employed. Rasing taxes in a bad economy for employers is not the way to put more people back to work.

Gary, Detroit   September 16th, 2008 3:52 pm ET

McInsane blames everything on Wall Street yet ignores the " reckless conduct, corruption and unbridled greed " in Washington. It's in Washington where economic policies and all those so called "free trade " agreements are written.

tennessee   September 16th, 2008 3:52 pm ET

Obama does not have a plan and would destroy America!!!

Grace Needed   September 16th, 2008 3:51 pm ET

Hey Senator McCain, how do you envision dealing with this recklessness and corruption when you have obviously contributed to it in voting for deregulation? If you are so upset with unbridled greed now, why didn't you see that this might happen sooner and vote against deregulation? It's because you are as reckless as they are. You selected a Vice President without proper vetting. You took a gamble, a high risk to win without thought for your country's future. You are no longer the honorable hero you once were when we supported you in 2000. To be honorable requires honesty and you sir, have not been honest and are not being honest now. Your recklessness has cost this country already. We are praying it won't cost our future anymore!

California Gold   September 16th, 2008 3:51 pm ET

I'm for McCain's statement "We're going to put an end to [insert your topic of the day] statements. Trouble is McCain is directly responsible for relaxing and eliminating regulation. McCain's life long friend and campaign financial advisor and policy person is Phil Gramm: Americans are whiners. That is change to make matters worse.

Proud to be American   September 16th, 2008 3:51 pm ET

I fault the economic philosophy McSame as Bush subscribes to – too... he only voted 90% of the time with the current President. He subscribes to the same ecconomic policies not putting anything new on his ticket. He and Painlin have wonderful sound bites on how they will change things but their record begs to differ...

TONY   September 16th, 2008 3:51 pm ET

It looks like Ohio, Florida, Virginia and possibly Missouri will decide this election. It will be interesting to see if the people who are suffering in those states stick with what got them there or will they step in a new direction. . . .
OBAMA/BIDEN

MikeH   September 16th, 2008 3:51 pm ET

If anyone can turn this recession into a full-blown depression, it is Phil "Nation of Whiners" Graham, McCain's economic advisor.

McCain's voting record speaks for itself. Tax breaks for rich folks entitlement cuts for average people.

Convicted felon who can't vote   September 16th, 2008 3:50 pm ET

Yes McSame will make things worse. Hearing his economic advisors, I'm petrified of McSame. This country is literally falling apart and electing McSame will put the name in the coffin.

OBAMA/BIDEN 08

KG   September 16th, 2008 3:50 pm ET

Obama's answer "regulate, regulate, regulate." Yet more proof, that when push comes to shove, Obama goes running back to Jimmy Carter's policies. And, what did that get us? Double digit inflation, double digit interest rates, double digit unemployment.

Our economic system has been powerful and strong for 100+ years. It is what made the US the country it is. It's what has given us, the opportunities we've had and continue to have. Look around the world. Americans have far greater opportunities than any other people from any other country. And yet, with a two year hiccup, Obama wants to scrub the very ideals which have made us what we are and roll back to some socialistic type of regulated economy and scrap the free market.

By the way, the Democrats have been in charge of Congress for the past two years. They've had the true power to fix these issues and have done absolutely nothing. Yet, they want you to blame this whole thing on the Republicans. Give me a break!!

Terry, Butte, Mt   September 16th, 2008 3:50 pm ET

Correct!

let's reinterate, Phil "Nation of Whiners" Graham was the creator of the Enron loophole that deregulated the Energy Industry.

McCain originally opposed it early this century, but was lobbied by Graham (Lobbyist for UBS) in 2007 to vote against the bill that would have closed the loophole. Senate Bill S.2058.

While McCain ran for president, Graham was McCain's chief Economic Advisor and wrote McCain's economic policy that he still stands by. Graham's economic plan is heavily dosed with MORE government deregulation.

It is only now that the economy has taken a HUGE hit yesterday that McCain has flopped to be for government regulation.

Don't buy it, McCain wants to deregulate, regardless of what he says now on the stump.

T Allen   September 16th, 2008 3:49 pm ET

John McCain has been part of the Washington D. C. scene for at least 26 years and he now thinks it is broken and needs to be fixed??
What was his first CLUE?

Proud American   September 16th, 2008 3:49 pm ET

Wake up America! Lets stop the bleeding before its too late. No more Republican neglect. They've shown they dont care about us. Lets show them the same.
Obama/ Biden '08

Losing my mind in Virginia   September 16th, 2008 3:49 pm ET

All i have to say to republicans is listen to allen greenspan.

OBAMA SUPPORTER IN IOWA   September 16th, 2008 3:49 pm ET

McCain has had 26 years to change Washington. He didn't do it. You can't claim you are the candidate for change when you think things are OK as they are. By the way, our economy is the opposite of strong, check your Blackberry for current stock prices.

Susan   September 16th, 2008 3:49 pm ET

If nutsy McCain gets in, I'll have to put my money in an old sock and bury it in the backyard.
GO OBAMA!

ktodman   September 16th, 2008 3:48 pm ET

I'm still awaiting the MSM to report on Obama's Treason. Trying to talk the Iraqi Government into stalling draw downs until after the elections. Two days and counting. I am still waiting.

Go Sarah!   September 16th, 2008 3:48 pm ET

Do you think the recent stock market collapse or troubles in the banking system are good news?

Well, according to CNN's Candy Crowley, the Obama campaign does.

On Monday's "Anderson Cooper 360," after CNN senior political analyst David Gergen said "what happened over the weekend with the economy and the bottom falling out of the financial markets...is the opportunity for Obama to seize the momentum back on his side," Crowley actually said, "[J]ust as foreclosures were showing up on B-17, or in the real estate section, along comes this horrific headline out of Wall Street...I mean, this is what they wanted."

WOW WOW WOW!

I kid you not. The transcript of this disgraceful exchange follows (video embedded right, h/t Steve Malzberg):

joey from nc   September 16th, 2008 3:48 pm ET

considering i pay 1/4 of what i make in taxes and i am AT POVERTY LEVEL. I can't wait for the rich to feel the hurt just like 95 PERCENT OF THE NATION!!

OBAMA FOREVER!!

Rodger   September 16th, 2008 3:48 pm ET

Georgia attacked the breakaway provinces first! McCain's #1 foriegn policy advisor is a paid lobbyist for Georgia. This whole situation stinks! I thinks they got the go ahead from McCain. If there aren't any problems in the world...he'll create one! Yes, Country First!
Your wife is rich...retire NOW!

Shari, NY   September 16th, 2008 3:48 pm ET

Anyone who says the economy is sound in one breath and contradicts his statement in the next is brewing a recipe for disaster. The poor man has lost it and his party is blinded by prejudice.

Patriot   September 16th, 2008 3:48 pm ET

It means No real vetting process for Sarah Palin!
It means they really believe the American People are that Stupid!
Unfortunately, there are too many that will listen and believe that it's the Media or some liberal plott to bring her down, when she herself said "I will cooperate fully in the investigation" sad day on Nov 4 when the American people truly show how ignorant we are and elect these two in office

Bulldog   September 16th, 2008 3:48 pm ET

Don't let the Republicans and the McCain camp to blame democrats for the current financial crisis. It is clearly the Republicans who support free market and deregulation that they have pushed through as bills which has had a direct role in America's financial crisis. The democrats have tried to put more regulation in the markets to prevent our financial crisis only to be blocked by Republicans. So for Republicans to blame Democrats is an outright LIE.

TROY   September 16th, 2008 3:48 pm ET

The vast majority of Americans are so easily fooled and even more easily led. OBAMA is right, McCain would most difinitely make our economy worse.

Linda from Prescott AZ   September 16th, 2008 3:47 pm ET

obama is correct and mccain as usual is wrong, lies, is dis-honest, a loose cannon, a war monger and just plain wrong.

KEATING 5 V.2008   September 16th, 2008 3:47 pm ET

The Reason for America’s Financial Crisis:

The Gramm-Leach-Bliley Financial Services Modernization Act of 1999 deregulated the financial system by opening up competition among banks, securities and insurance companies and allowed commercial and investment banks to merge.

John McCain voted for this bill along with the entire Republican Senate. The Senate Democrates objected against it. Phil Gramm indroduced this bill was John McCain’s top economic advisor before he was forced to resign but still gives McCain economic advice to this day.

John McCain has a direct responsibility in the financial crisis we are in today. McCain has supported the very philosophy and mentality that has caused the economy we are facing today. Is that what you want? Another 4 years of this? If you do then vote for McCain.

Yes that would be the same Gramm that thinks we are "whiner" and a "mental" recession!

And yes, the other 4 were Dems, but they are not running for President.

Lynn:60 yr old Obama supporter   September 16th, 2008 3:47 pm ET

How can McCain take on "reckless conduct, corruption and unbridled greed" when the very people who helped create these situations are key advisors to his campaign. Who ither than lobbyists does McCain have as advisors? Just more of the same lies and hypocrisy.

The Great One   September 16th, 2008 3:47 pm ET

With Obama in the oval office the economy will rebound for sure!

Sylvia   September 16th, 2008 3:47 pm ET

and I say Obama will make it worse
didn't you hear him on O'Reily....he wants us to work hard so "we" can help out the waitress down the street.....
excuse me???

Ommi   September 16th, 2008 3:46 pm ET

84000 people lost their jobs in the month of August alone
"NOT ANOTHER 4 YEARS"

Fannie Mae & Freddie Mac lost $30 BILLION because of the Bush Administration
"NOT ANOTHER 4 YEARS"

Thousands of homes foreclosed every day now
"NOT ANOTHER 4 YEARS"

American does not need another senseless war.
"NOT ANOTHER 4 YEARS"

KATRINA and how it was handled was a national disgrace
"NOT ANOTHER 4 YEARS"

4000+ American soldiers dead in Iraq & over 150000 Iraqi’s
"NOT ANOTHER 4 YEARS"

Bush fired US attorneys illegally
"NOT ANOTHER 4 YEARS"

CIA agent Valerie Plame cover leaked by Bush & Cheney Administration
"NOT ANOTHER 4 YEARS"

The corruption of ENRON
"NOT ANOTHER 4 YEARS"

Republican lobbyist JACK ABRAMOFF
"NOT ANOTHER 4 YEARS"

Bush Commutes Scooter Libby's Prison Term
"NOT ANOTHER 4 YEARS"

Sex Predator MARK FOLEY whose job in congress was to protect our children.
"NOT ANOTHER 4 YEARS"

Gas Prices jump from $0.89 per gal in 2000 to $4.00+ per gal right now in 2008
"NOT ANOTHER 4 YEARS"

National debt increases $1.93 BILLION each DAY now over 9 trillion TOTAL
"NOT ANOTHER 4 YEARS"

American major banks bankrupt
"NOT ANOTHER 4 YEARS"

Illegal WIRE TAPPING dishonoring the constitution of the United States of America
"NOT ANOTHER 4 YEARS"

No child left behind a disaster for our children
"NOT ANTOHER 4 YEARS"

Bush finally admits he was a drunk but lied about it back in 2000 campaign
"NOT ANOTHER 4 YEARS"

Hundreds of millions in profit for oil companies and their CEO'S.
"NOT ANOTHER 4 YEARS"

Our soldiers sent to battle field WITHOUT proper armor.
"NOT ANOTHER 4 YEARS"

"Mission Accomplish banner on aircraft carrier with BUSH, We are still at THIS DUM WAR.
"NOT ANOTHER 4 YEARS"

Wall Street big CEO BONUSES, NO OVERSIGHT, & NO REGULATIONS led to banks going under.
"NOT ANOTHER 4 YEARS"

AIG need 76 billion to be saved from going under. .
"NOT ANOTHER 4 YEARS"

HP Latest Mega Company to cut 28000 jobs
"NOT ANOTHER 4 YEARS"

A vote for Mccain/Palin/Bush will be the same as the last 8 years.

Jon   September 16th, 2008 3:46 pm ET

McCain certainly hasn't offered any suggestions for how to make the economy better, so that leaves only one other option, right?

Anonymous   September 16th, 2008 3:46 pm ET

Simple question for McCain: How?

How are you going to reform anything?

How come you haven't reformed anything in nearly 30 years in DC?

How can you make corporations not pay CEOs exhorbitant salries?

How will you explain to the conservative base that you are now suddenly in favor of firm governemnt regulation of business?

sophia nyc   September 16th, 2008 3:45 pm ET

McCain would make the entire world miserable.

W. Axl Rose   September 16th, 2008 3:45 pm ET

And taxing small businesses into oblivion would help the economy?

Justin, ny   September 16th, 2008 3:45 pm ET

Its a pretty strong argument obama makes. We've tried the republican economic philosophy for the last 8 years, and look where its gotten us...... Don't you think its worth trying something different?

obama/biden '08!!!!!!!

California Gold   September 16th, 2008 3:45 pm ET

McCain keeps giving the same terse, angry answers with "we're going to put an end to..." but ignores what occurred that resulted in the collapse of our financial institutions. Well we know it has to stop and we know McCain has supported the industry wide deregulation that caused the mess. So now he is the one to save the day? HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA

Susan   September 16th, 2008 3:45 pm ET

McCain would be a total disaster. If he wins, Better start up the fires for the soup kitches. That is if you can afford the wood to make the fire! No McCain, No Palin!

MCCAIN AND REPUBLICAN DEREGULATION ARE THE PROBLEM   September 16th, 2008 3:45 pm ET

The Reason for America’s Financial Crisis:

The Gramm-Leach-Bliley Financial Services Modernization Act of 1999 deregulated the financial system by opening up competition among banks, securities and insurance companies and allowed commercial and investment banks to merge.
John McCain voted for this bill along with the entire Republican Senate. The Senate Democrates objected against it. Phil Gramm indroduced this bill was John McCain’s top economic advisor before he was forced to resign but still gives McCain economic advice to this day.

John McCain has a direct responsibility in the financial crisis we are in today. McCain has supported the very philosophy and mentality that has caused the economy we are facing today. Is that what you want? Another 4 years of this? If you do then vote for McCain.

Yes that would be the same Gramm that thinks we are "whiner" and a "mental" recession!

What was this doddering old fool, talking about the morning of 09/16/2008 on American Morning??

"we need a 9/11 style commission??"

Why?? What does that have to do with the economy??

I know it was early in the morning so hopefully, your napping now, so you will be able to speak coherently later today.

On 09/15/2008, Americans lost over $700 billion from retirement and pensions.

Exactly how is that a "sound" fundamental?
Of course, since Palin has been to a bank, I am sure she is FULLY qualified to help dig us out of the hole.

Greenspan" "We cannot afford John McCain's tax cuts".

No Bush 44!

McCain ; “We have seen self interest, greed, irresponsibility and corruption undermine the hard work of the American people".

Finally something true out of this man's mouth.

His party is guilty of all his accusations, since Republican have held the WH and a majority of Congress, for the last 6 of the 8 years
.
We truly cannot afford 4 more years of this know nothing.

McCain: ”We will stop multi-million dollar payouts to CEOs who have broken the public trust”.

Does this mean that Carly Fiorina your new BFF, who took $21 million in cash as her departing gift after running HP into the ground, will be tendering her resignation?

Oops, hope that wasn‘t “sexist“.

Bulldog   September 16th, 2008 3:45 pm ET

"In my administration we're going to hold people on Wall Street responsible and we're going to enact and enforce reforms that make sure that these outrages - and they are outrages - never happen in the first place," McCain said

But wait, this is completely opposite of what McCain has supported and stood for the last 20 plus years.

The Gramm-Leach-Bliley Financial Services Modernization Act of 1999 deregulated the financial system by opening up competition among banks, securities and insurance companies and allowed commercial and investment banks to merge.

John McCain voted for this bill along with the entire Republican Senate. The Senate Democrats objected against it. Phil Gramm introduced this bill and was John McCain’s top economic advisor before he was forced to resign but still gives McCain economic advice to this day.

John McCain has a direct responsibility in the financial crisis we are in today along with the banking lobbyists he is employing in his campaign. McCain has supported the very philosophy and mentality that has caused the economy we are facing today. Is that what you want? Another 4 years of this? Look it up, McCain has truly supported DEREGULATION throughout his career and now all of a sudden he is FOR regulation. He’s blowing smoke and just telling more lies.

Blinker   September 16th, 2008 3:45 pm ET

McCain blames Wall Street for Wall Street's problems. Obama blames............Bush. Obama is losing his grip on this race.

jt   September 16th, 2008 3:44 pm ET

Obama will be worst.

Obama will tax the rich then the rich will raise their products or services to the people.

yo   September 16th, 2008 3:43 pm ET

The ECONOMY is fundamentally sound so quit your whining.

Anita from Arizona   September 16th, 2008 3:43 pm ET

Spot on, Obama. It took a Democrat to dig the country out of the last deficit. It'll take another one. Time to give the Republicans a TIME OUT!!

Bushwhacked in Eugene, OR   September 16th, 2008 3:43 pm ET

If any of you Obama-haters listened to this speech, as I did, and you still say he has no substance, or speaks only in generalities, or doesn't offer solutions - then you're either blind, a racist or such hard-line republicans that you'd never vote for any democrat. This speech was filled with specifics, and they made lots of sense to me. Please - LISTEN before you believe platitudes from your ranting talk show hosts.

Voter   September 16th, 2008 3:42 pm ET

McCain won't add "oversight" – that goes against everything he's ever said! (aka government spending and having hands in the private sector)

McCain's reform = you're on your own!

Sue in MI   September 16th, 2008 3:41 pm ET

Didn't he say that at the Convention, at every stump speech, and on The View? How does that change anything? What does he mean to do-rein in the deregulation he has supported that caused this? Does he even know he helped cause this problem? Could Sarah explain it to him?

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