CNN

True Obama – take credit for experience as a senator, getting paid as a senator but dont actually do any work in the senate. McCain put country first and is doing his job, as senator, while Obama puts Obama first and always. This after all will effect the next administration and everyone should be looking to who has taken the lead so far – it hasn't been Obama who has been waiting on "advisors" to tell him what to do and say first.
The debate was not on the economy as much as Obama wants to turn it into that – it was about foreign affairs so do I think McCain wanted to skip a debate he clearly has the most experience on for "politics" – NO!

As a McCain ally, I am switching now. I have had it with his sheltering of Palin. I have had it with his decision to retreat and not discuss the #1 issue facing us over the past 2 weeks. HE'S NOT ON THE FINANCE CMTE! He's not on any Senate cmte that could impact this (neither is Obama). How is bringing more pressure and scrutiny to DC going to magically result in a compromise?

Going from Nobama to no McBush.

I am grateful that at least one of the candidates has common sense. Having the debates would out the country first. We want to know how the President of the U.S. will deal with this horendous mess Bush let happen.

Yes, go on with the debate!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

The debate should be postponed at this time. What is Obama thinking? It is critical that these senators should be in Wash. at this time – where they can do some good to help the financial crisis.

Obama is putting the country first. The country needs a new president, doesn't need Washington aristocrats to work over a plan that's doomed to fail. The Bush plan is not what this country needs to come back stronger than ever.

McCain is just trying to save his campaign and show "he's doing something". Truth is, he's doing nothing that should be necessary to do. You don't solve this crisis by panicking around. You need to be firm and decisive. That's the way a good president should handle it. That's the way Obama is handling it.

The crisis doesn't need more headlights. The crisis is there, must be addressed by the two presidential candidates shouldn't step in just for the sake of fame and glory.

Good way to go, Obama! Shame on you, McCain

That's right, Obama. True presidential leadership.

McCain's Washington "experience" has unfortunately proven to be Rovian political gimmicks.

Hello Jack...
Of course the debate should go on as scheduled. If both candidates are in touch with their staff and leadership re their views, why get in the way of progress.
McCain is frantic......a trait we would do well to avoid in the next president.

janet
Wash, DC

Obama is right: exactly the time the voters need to hear from the candidates. McCain want to make this political and proves he isn't bipartisan by going behind Obama's back and making a politcal stunt to try to look presidential while in negotiations on a joint statement.

Again McCain shows his erratic, off the cuff decisions; the presence of McCain and Obama WILL inject presidential politics into this discussion and put negotitations back to the start.

Move the debate to Washington, DC if McCain can't get to Mississippi. It is only 1.5 hours.

Obama expresses himself so well, don't you think? McCain's stutterings make me want to change the channel.

This is a cheap publicity stunt by McCain. As usual, his lemming like supporters will slurp up every last bit of this grandstanding.

What's changed in the last 48 hours? Oh yes ..McCain's numbers are tanking.

Dumb people .... Obama never said anything about not voating on the bill ......he said that the debates must go on...

YOU dumb repubs

This is absolutely crazy. John Mccain and Sarah Palin are not ready and they are scared to let it be shown. They keep putting things off so they dont look bad before the people get a chance to vote. People please read between the lines.

John McCain was for the presidential debates before he was against them.

ALL HUMBLE SENATORS VOTE YES OR NO.
ELITE SENATORS VOTE PRESENT OR ABSENT

Americans are not fools, All these ploy by GOP to derail the issues and now the debate..the press are not even allowed to question their VP pick, whats going on?..This will be the true test of how Americans really are.

AMEN!! You need to be able to multi-task!

Go Obama/Biden '08

Congratulations Obama. You've made a wise decision to stay the course and contribute whatever you can in your current position to help in the bailout. This is good judgment.

MCbush's boy's come out trying to cover for him , but it's not going to work, one must be able to Multitask,like Obama.

OBAMA-BIDEN 08'

Obama should go just show up for the debate even if Mccain chichens out. Take questions from the moderater and answer them, air time is good.

This debate should go on. How can you want be president and can't handle a debate that is on a friday at 9:00 pm and do the other part of your job Monday – Friday before the debate. This is just a gimmick because he probably not ready for it.

Hell yes no one will let McCain off the hook like they have Palin I want to see for myself who knows what the hell their talking about a debate is the only true way to judge them.

There is nothing to be gained by canceling the debates. By Friday they will already have a plan and either have it voted on or ready to vote on. No reason to cancel things.
McCain doesnt understand the economy so maybe he should go back to washington and get involved, learn whats really going on. After all he said the economy was fundamentally strong just a week ago.

OBAMA is the kind of leader we need, one that could multy task.. What happenned to McCain? He obviously has not done his homework. OBAMA could do both deal with the economy, manage his campaign and still have time to have an honest 2 hour debate for the us American't to see who is a true leader.

Sorry McCain your tacktics will not work. Prepare ahead next time.

having a president that cannot walk and chew gum at the same time is what got us into this mess. i am keeping abreast of everything going on in this bail out debate with the help of cable networks and the internet. the candidates can't do the same? I am sure they have voiced opions to the right people in their parties.

I'm a little tired listening to the same tired "Obama will just vote 'present'" nonsense. Why don't you take a look at McCain's voting record in the senate NOW (not years ago in state legislature). He was a no-show pretty much the whole year!

I love Obama!...the debates should go on....

and the nerve to call this a 9-11 crisis..lives were lost..we were attack...

the two cannot be compared..its an insult to victims of 911!

we need LEADERSHIP.....according to the statements by both campaigns..Obama reached out to John first....to issue a statement of unity to send signal to congress..that's all that's needed...

we are about to elect the most important President in my life time...and im young...DEBATE john..."don't be scared".....

McCain's refusal to debate is NOT a "bi-partisan" move. It looks pretty much like a partisan cut and run to me.

Add to that the fact that what he is also doing is trying to "rush" the BUSH bailout plan through congress before there is time to do proper oversight.

Hey, John. Isn't this how we got into this mess in the first place?
Now you want more of same!

I score this as an example of egregious and narrow self-interest on McCain's part. And hardly "bi-partisan".

That term is better applied to Obama's rewquest that they put out a joint statement.

Clearly McCain cannot provide the measured, honest, careful leadership we nedd in these troubled times.

...and Palin is still too scared to take a real question...

Let the deabates begin! You owe it to the American people.

JOHN IN OHIO

Supporters for McCain are either two things – and the second one is stupid.

McCain is like a box of chocolates. You never know what he's gonna say:) Run Jonny run.

Exactly! Thank you Obama for putting Country First! McCain does not have a hold on the phrase "country first"...In 40 days we will have new leadership in our country, it is vital that the American people get to understand each candidates views on the issues, not political pandering like McCain is attempting to do.

Democrats love America just as much as Republicans and I'm sick to death of the republican stronghold on the patriot card. There is the immediate problem and then there is the person that is going to have to run our country the next 4/8 years. I want someone in the white house who has plans to move us in a new direction and listen to the American people. We need leadership that is honest and open, not one who hides from the media, lies to the public, and disenfranchises voters at the polls!

WAAAA WAAAA thats not fair. I studied all week for this debate. I know exactly what I am going to say in case they do not let my telepromper in....

What am I going to do now? You mean I might actually have to vote on an issue instead of voting present.? Oh NO!!!!!!!!!!!

GO McCain

Yes it should go on, at this point the only thing they can say is yea or nay, the already laid out what they want in this bill before they say yea or nay.

"This is the FOREIGN POLICY DEBATE YOU DOOFUS- they're not going to be talking about this economic issue."

Foreign policy is directly related to the economy. Who do you think is funding American debt?

If I could vote 100 times for this guy I would take a vacation from work and dedicate my time to line up and vote with out no complaint!

We need a president who can multi task not a president when it is not working for him take cover on another issue.

The poll is leaning towards Obama now McCain want to suspend the campaign????

I heard soooooooo many people saying, 'wake up! wake up" but people are still pretending like they are sleeping... well one for the road, wake up people....wake up!

The whole nation has been eagerly awaiting this debate! Colorado will begin casting their vote (mail-in) in just over one week! In order to make the best-informed decision, we need to listen to what they have to say now! McCain is not able to do more than one thing at a time?

way to go

This is the President and his party's mess...not Barack's mess.

This is the second time I am sending this and ofcourse CNN you wont post this!
Who is NObama going to debate, is he going to debate himself and vote "present" at the debate again? Pathetic! Mccain isnt going to be there! Thats leadership! Wake up America and see who can get the job done
Lifelong democrat voting for Mccain!
Mccain 08/Hillary 12

Didn't John McCain spending time in Washington help get us into this mess in the first place?

Neither McCain or Obama are on the Banking Committee. The bailout proposal is about 98% done already. There's absolutely no need for them to drop everything and head to Washington and just get in the way.

This is Genius. McCain has put Obama in a corner by saying "That's fine if you want to debate, but it will be a lonely stage in Mississippi" "I'll be in Washington actually getting things done."

Wake up Democrats, you're playing in the majors now.

OL' DUDE IS RUNNING OUT OF GAS! AND...AFTER VIEWING THE COURIS INTERVIEW WITH SARAH SHOR SKIRT, AND THE FINDING THAT HIS CAMPAIGN CHAIRPERSON WAS ON THE PAYROOL OF FANNIE MAE AND FREDDIE MAC THAT FOOL IS RUNNING!

MAVERICK, HUH? PLEASE... HE CAN'T HANG...

Comments about being unable to multi-task are inane. It is going to be tough for Congress to come up with a workable solution to the latest crisis. Maybe everyone who can face that job should be working on it. If someone can't face it or has nothing to contribute, than maybe that someone should go on with the debate which is a compilation of 30 second sound bites. Let's just hope that something gets done before Congress goes on hiatus.

This man is really good at rheotics. But the reality is that the debate is going to be on on this Friday. If you want the debate, that means you're not willing to deal with the financial crisis first. Obama just want to show more beautiful words in the debate instead of going to Washington to help solving the crisis.

!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Go McCain/Palin!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

No kidding it should go on. John McCain has barely been seen in the Senate over the last few months. Besides, John, contrary to your opinion, Washington can function without you.

I'm surprised that Obama put his compaign first. This financial crisis is not one of our normal problems, but of such a scale to change all American's lives for many years to come.
He stated that if he was needed he would be called. What a position for a future president to take! Sure we call can deal with more than one thing at a time-but this crisis is a definite priority that instead of sitting back and waiting for his other fellow senators to solve, he should also be fulfilling his responsibilites that he was elected as a senator to do.

I think the economy crisis is more important right now than the debates;

Democrats

We now see what John McCain does in a crisis. He runs.

Once again McCain temperment....make a statement & run

Obama...makes a statement then answers the tough questions

Obama can send Biwith proposals to washington
McCain can send palin to "shake shings up"

yeah right

Of course it should go on. As a McCain supporter, I am concerned that this will make him look like he is afraid of Obama.

Yeah, doesn't a President have to know how to multi-task?

Me thinks you McCainites protest too much. A Senator just stated on CNN that they had not heard anything from McCain up to this point so why now? You know he's not ready so don't try trashing Senator Obama because he's not buying it, neither are the American people.

Thank goodness the debate needs to take place. McCain is running as ususal by the way where is Sarah. What ploy will she try to use to get out of debate with Joe Biden?

If McCan't......CANNOT MULTI-TASK, THEN HE SHOULD NOT BE OUR PRESIDENT!!!!

NO NEED TO CANCEL THIS DEBATE!!!!

McCain is NOT showing deference to the American people, he is looking to put distance between himself and the current situation by avoiding a debate on the most important subject in this election! His campaign manager has said that this campaign is not about the issues....and this crisis and McCain's attempt to avoid the debate shines a spotlight on McCain's inability to lead and SOLVE these issues. I want the debate to continue...we DESERVE to see and hear what the next president proposes to do to lead us through this. No more avoidance...I want STRAIGHT TALK...and McCain doesn't want to give us it.

coward, coward, coward... mccain

So a 2 hour debate is going to change the outcome of this corporate welfare package? Just because grandpa McCain may have to stay up a little later is no reason to put off the debate. For God's sake just give the man a nap!

Republican's have created a hellhole now they do not
wish to talk about it
, Go Senator Obama ,he has NY State already in his camp and
we who suffer in the financial business.
The little people like
Reception desk workers, IT repairTech's etc

Of course, the debate should go on as scheduled. Go to Washington and be part of the decision-making, but show up on Friday night for your responsibilities to the American people as candidates for the presidency. We want to hear from you both.

Obama reached out to McCain with the idea of a non-partisan statement on suggestions for a congressional plan on the financial situation. McCain responded with a unilateral statement which should be interpreted as a political ploy. He and his advisers see this move as a catch-22 situation for Obama, whose thoughtful reply to let the debate go on shows the American people who can actually think through the problem and lead the country.

Yes Barack I agree the debate should go on because I want to know what are you or Mc Same are goning to do about this big mess that our country is in and I want to know NOW! What is McSame sceard of and why is it that he can not do more then one thing at a time could it be his age ?

Do you like the micro managing boss who buts in just when you are starting to get things done? That is John McCain

I prefer the boss who clearly outlines what is expected and lets me get the job done- exactly what BHO is doing. The points on what aspects need to be covered in the bill he will support have already been provided. Let the paper pushers get it done to that framework.

I don't like the tenor of the discussion, now Bush will get everyone in a panic with his speech tonight. Just like the Patriot act and other legislation rammed down our throats at a time of vulnerability. The market was fine today. Don't tell me they are not overstating the effects, because they clearly are trying to scare us.

WAKE UP!
BO08

Something tells me that if McCain was still leading in the polls, he wouldn't have pulled this stunt. Can he not debate AND work on the economy at the same time?

Where was his sense of urgency last week when he said that the "fundamentals of the economy are strong?" What a difference a week...and some poll numbers...makes!

"Deeds not words Obama you joke."

Deeds huh? As in invading foreign countries and putting diplomacy on the shelf? That's what the American public wants- sure pal.

Yes Obama, don't fall for th okidok, McCAIN could have come up with this when this first happen. The debate must go on, the American people need to hear from both of them. And McCAIN CAN NOT DEMAND what someone else should do. And Barack is correct a president should be able to handle more then one crisis at a time.

Yes, we have waited for this debate

What a joke! If McCain was so concerned he would have gone back to DC last Friday.

CNN – quit reading from the McLoser playbook.

Apparently Obama can walk AND chew gum at the same time!! McCain hasn't been present in the senate since approximately March since he apparently can't campaign and do his job at the same time...

I'm sorry but I think we need a president who can MULTITASK!! Don't you?

Less than 6 weeks until we choose our next president, who will own this crisis. We need to hear them debate NOW.

From Mary: "Once again, Obama puts the election ahead of the American people."

The election is THE most important activity the American people will participate in this year! It is FOR the American people.

The press is not allowed to ask Palin questions.
McCain wants to postpone the debate and suspend campaigning.
What is wrong with this picture?
I am so tired of the GOP pulling any stunt possible to win and election. McCain should drop the "country first" bit and use "whatever it takes to win". What a shame and a sham.

The Presidency is not a one problem at a time job.
a real leader can deal , end of story.
Besides What could he possibly do?
He admitted that economics are not at all his strong point.
(this has been proven by what we are going through now)
Now his presence is supposed to be detrimental?

WAKE UP AMERICA!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Obama/Biden 08

Obama is right, as a strong President, he MUST be able to deal with several crisis at once, a strong President with a strong Congress can get the job done! Calling "time out" doesn't work outside ball games!

WAAAA WAAAA thats not fair. I studied all week for this debate. I know exactly what I am going to say in case they do not let my telepromper in....

What am I going to do know? You mean I might actually have to vote on an issue instead of voting present.? Oh NO!!!!!!!!!!!

GO McCain

McCain hasn't shown his face in Washington in over 5 months and counting. This financial fiasco started long ago, and lays totally at the feet of the Rethuglian administration and their deregulator waterboy McCain. NOW, he wants to get serious about finding a solution? Really? When this whole crisis started last week he could have made this same pitch and returned to Washington DC days ago – if he REALLY were serious and not pulling a real boner of a political stunt. Suddenly when he drops 9 points in the polls, he wants to go help? Yeah, right! McCain just stepped in a pile of poo-poo that won't come off his shoes any time soon!!!!!!! Yes, I insist that the debate goes forward because I want to hear what he has to say about this crisis – other than whining about the NY Times coverage of him.

Now, THAT is the response of a true leader.!
Obama made the point that a President will often need to deal with multiple important issues at a time... we can't allow a single issue to completely paralize us. Good for Obama! I'm glad he didn't give in to McCain's desparate political game. We need a leader who won't go into hiding when times are tough. We need a leader who will stand in front of our faces during the best and worst of times to answer our questions and tell us his plan.

McCain is so incompetant that he needs to take a few days to catch up with what is going on. How obvious.

Please print this as it is from a Cnadian's Perspective...

Okay here goes...
I am having a hard time writing this without tears of laughter rolling down my face...and if you listen closely and all Americans put their ear to the North and hear us Canadians hollering ..

We too are having an election now up here but your election is a real hoot and a blast... McCain is obviously scared and is using every plow to avoid meeting face to face...
I applaud Obama for sticking to his guns on the debate and look forward to the constructiveness of Obama and the evading and cliches of Mccain then..that is if McCain shows up...
Maybe McCain's wife or Sarah can write him a note or John McCain can use the excuse that his dog ate his speech....
Obama..Thank you form the bottom of my heart and ..
McCain thank you for making me laugh myself to tears.....

McCain this is too critical of a time to run....don't be scurry..uh uh...don't be scurry.....

America needs to know NOW if McCain is going to be a participant in this greed like he was in the 1980s (Keating 5 S&L scandal when he tried to influence regulators doing their job investigating a CEO guitly of scamming investors). Waiting until this blows over or hiding in the congressional crowd gives McCain a chance to keep his skeletons in the closet and pull the wool over America's eyes.

Do you suppose Palin knows about McCain's economic wisdom from the scandal??? She might actually be smarter than him...

Let the show go on so we can see McCain is part of the problem, not part of the solution!!!

and there will continue to be crisis and all sorts of problems leading up to the election.... so why even have debates at all, cries McCain!!!

Why even HAVE an election... with all the crisis going on, we should just let DUBYA continue to be President. If you recall... his people floated that idea TWICE a few years ago, claiming that our nation couldn't possibly have an election if we were in the middle of a terrorist attack!!

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

HE CAN'T HANG! OL' DUDE IS RUNNING OUT OF GAS! AND...AFTER VIEWING THE COURIS INTERVIEW WITH SARAH SHOR SKIRT, AND THE FINDING THAT HIS CAMPAIGN CHAIRPERSON WAS ON THE PAYROOL OF FANNIE MAE AND FREDDIE MAC THAT FOOL IS RUNNING!

MAVERICK, HUH? PLEASE...

Of course he(Obama) won't go back to Washington to help, because he can't help, no one respect Obama there. Who could he convince? Good for McCain for at least trying to help and for putting the country first once again.

Why are you guys more worried about a debate that can take place on another day?

Yes, the debate should go on. McChicken wants to fix economy after 26 years in washington, but the problem is that he doesn't understand economics. Maybe Bush will fix it if we give him four more years. McBush!!!

Palin will fix it after she fixed McCain...Pardonnez my French

We must, must, must have this debate at this time.
We have no confidence in what the present administration might say and do this week, and our not impressed with McCain's desire to huddle with Bush/Cheney/Paulson and other Washington insiders.
Let the existing administration solve their problems, or fail.
McCain's "job" is to demonstrate his ability to think on his feet, without having a meltdown. His job as candidate in this 11th hour is more important that his other job as senator, which he and Obama both have left up to their staffs for months anyway.
We have to witness, in real time, how each candidate approaches the most significant crisis of our team.
Even though this debate is about foreign affairs, our role in the global economy is relevant to the crisis at hand.

Why wouldn't the debate go on? If a presidential candidate cannot take the heat of addressing the country while there is a national crisis going on, he or she is NOT presidential material.

McCain = Bush = McCain = Bush = McCain = Bush = McCain = Bush

So, Obama calls McSame to discuss that they should put put a statement out. The call was made at 8 this morning,

McSame called back around 2pm to say he agrees but they both decided they have their team put out a statement,

How then will McSame come up with this gimmick to make it seem as if he is the change we need?........McSame/Palin = Not good for America

McSame is scared..................Scared that Obama will beat him hands down on this debate...

Obama is ready to lead any day....
Can't McCain multitask?.....Unbelievable..

Obama/Biden for 08...Change we believe in...Yes we can..

why postpone, don't we have a sitting president or do we

Either it is a crisis – Sen. Obama – or it is not. Let us know what the heck is going on. Who gives a crap about a meaningless talking head debate? This is about my future, my children's future and my grandchildren's future.

Of all Senators, John McCain has been the most absent. There have been 643 votes taken in the current Senate session: McCain has missed 412 of them.

McCain has not voted in the Senate since April 8th. Since March, he has missed 109 of the last 110 votes.

He missed votes on the GI Bill, energy policy, and in 2007 he missed "all 15 critical environmental votes in the Senate" - giving him a 2007 rating of 0% from the League of Conservation Voters. Zero percent? I don't think that's fair. I think they should have given him an "incomplete", and told him that he had to stay for summer session if he wants to graduate from the Senate.

You said it Obama dont let them weasel out of answering to the mess they have caused. Shame on you republicans shame on you!!

Well you know it is all about what Barak Obama wants, far be it from him put the needs of the American people above his own. He has shown this atitude before when he ver looked Hillary for VP.

McSame doesn't care one bit about the current economic crisis. This mess was blowing up last week and if he was so concerned, he should have put everything on hold at that time, and lent a hand. Further more, this man has already said that he doesn't no much about the economy, so how is he supposed to help out? I just don't get it, last week, the fundamentals of the economy were strong, this week....now that I'm behing drastically in the polls, I need to drop everything, be patriotic, and help. Please wise up people, this is not a game.

Doesn't the football team that is losing typically call a timeout so they can stop the clock, and look in the play book, for that hail mary play that will win the game for them?

That's what Sen. Mccain is doing. The clock is running out. He is losing, so he is trying to stop the clock.

YES WE CAN DO BOTH!

Like Barack said, they have big planes and can get from washington to mississippi in time to have the debate. McCain can't multi-task, Palin has no true experience. The choice is clear! Obama 08!

Obama is in a hurry to become president, for fame and power. But, McCain puts our country first, especially in the time of crisis. Probabaly Obama does not sense the real crisis, when it comes, to the nation and the world.

All you lefty Obamacrats shouldn't be so soon to judge. I really think if you give McCain his Friday night off, he's gonna crack this thing.

It is UNCONSCIONABLE for McCain to postpone the debate. The ENTIRE NATION wants and deserves to see these men OUTSIDE of prepared speeches to their constituents. This is the ONLY way for undecideds and independents to evaluate the candidates. Let the debates go on, and if McCain bails... to hell with him and the Republican party.

So I guess I running from a fight. Why else would he seemingly care to look at wall street woes now or national woes for the matter..(when he never really cared).
"I'm John McCain and I approve this whimpy message"

you gotta be kidding......last week "fundamentals of our economy were still strong" and now "economy is in crisin."
these guys must think most americans are either stupid or don't care!

Of course McCain does not want to debate as he has nothing but lies and deceptions to run on. McCain should stand up debate and answer questions the American people have for him. Oh thats right he has no answers only evasions. I f he feels that he and his unqualified running mate should lead this country they should tell us what they plan to do. Come to think of it it's best for him due to his past performance that he should not show up. Yep John you're a real maverick, run away John run. GO OBAMA.

This statement by MCCain is such a shill. It's disgusting. DEBATE!!! DEBATE!! DEBATE!!

OBAMA ALL THE WAAAAAAAYYYYYYYYYY!!!!!!!!!!!!!

McCain/Palin are PATHETIC!!!!!!!!!!!

McCain apparently doesn't think his shallow platitudes can stand up face to face with an active, nuanced intelligence like Obama's... I would have expected such an excuse from Palin to opt out of facing Biden, but come on! I think many Americans are, like me, sick of "leadership" that resorts to scare tactics and attempts to undermine the patriotism of the opposition by simply refusing to meet criticism head on... And we're not going to fall for it this time!

What's next from McCain? "We need to insure the stability of our economy by voting in the Republican presidential nominee (ME!!) to create a smooth transition of administrations. I'll be happy to debate Mr. Obama after this crisis is abated; do you have anything on your calendar for January 21st, Senator?"

Righties...newsflash...there is nothing to vote on yet! Putting the cart before the horse much? Righties please go back over FoxNoise where the ignorant reign supreme. You're loitering here in the world of the educated.

Belle - this will be the first time McCain has voted since MARCH! Come on ... he's not staying out of it, he just realizes politicizing the crisis will make it worse.

Go get em Barack !!

DO NOT DELAY THE DEBATE!!! DO NOT DELAY THE DEBATE!!!

Wake up America...this is what happens when rich, selfish, look the other way politics get in the way of what's best for our country.

Fix the mess....Vote Democrat in November!!

Virginia Navy Veteran for Obama/Biden

Can you imagine the two candidate descending on Washington and turning it into a circus? Each vying for the attention of reporters and the American public. It would be far better if they stayed out of direct intervention and left that to knowledgeable colleagues already there.

It would be useful to see them debate the issue, presenting to us the "picture" as they see it. My gut instinct tells me this is a cynical ploy by McCain to put a brake on his slide in the polls. Either he's capable of dealing with and debating the economy or he's not.

I was home for lunch and hated to turn the TV off to come back, but he looked so presidential and calm.

He of course made the call to John first to have a bipartisan press announcement, and John told him he would think about it. Then the next time Barack saw John he was making a statement on TV. So the stakes are high, as Barack said and I'm not surprised at anything John does.

He wants to stop the world and get off, because his campaign is going down the toilet. Barack is on a roll and he will press forward.

Obama/Biden 08

From Washinton to Mississippi is only two hours by plane. Why cant Mcsain go to washington and make the Debate? Just another poor polititical stunt.
POOR JUDGEMENT ON PALIN,
POOR JUDGEMENT ON IRAQ
POOR JUDGEMENT ON THE DEBATE
POOR JUDGEMENT ON KEATON 5
should America put John M-Cain in the white house. It will be poor judgement on us.

Didn't McCain want to debate weeks ago? What am I missing here?????? Obama was the one who said he didn't want to debate....

Democrats scared because McCain is taking charge...

What will be next from the McClown camp – Palin can't debate because there isn't enough time for her to study? Give me a break! There is little time left – let's move forward with the debates and the press interviews for ALL of the candidates!

Somebody needs to remind Oprabama that he is a U.S. Senator right now, not the President!!

McCain is showing leadership. Obama is showing his elitist attitude once again!

WHY IS THIS FELLOW ELECTED TO THE SENATE IF HE DOESNOT CARE ABOUT THE ISSUES AND VOTES PRESENT OR ABSENT ALL THE TIME????????????????????

This is about America first. We need to hear from our next presidents as opposed to going to Washington to mess things up. The last thing the senate and house need is t politicize this mess with one upsmanship.

Obama is putting America first and McCain is putting his antics first.

How is he going to help when he doesn't even know the first thing about the economy.

Thank God! I graduated from the University of Mississippi in May and I'm well aware of all the time, energy, effort, and not to mention MONEY that the school has invested in this debate. For McCain to blow it off shows just how much he cares. McCain could've gone to Washington last week...the week before...and the week before that! Why is it so important to go now? I'm so glad Obama didn't fall his mess. But now we're gonna have to sit and listen about how Obama doesn't care about America's financial crisis. Bring on the BS McCain!

Awesome! Keep it up, Barack!

Will you accept the scripted Presidential 'debate' again?
Brought to you by your 'good friends' at Wall Street.

No Paul or Nader Main Street USA,
nor Cynthia McKinney.

***
McCain's proposal to postpone the debate again shows his poor judgment.

He can't see that America wants to hear what the two candiates have to say.

He couldn't see that economy is NOT strong until things became more than obvious.

He can't deal with more than one thing at a time.

He is slow, lacks good understanding and judgments, and has no comprehensive knowledge that is required for presidency. But he has something – hot temper.

In short, McCain is not intelligent enough to lead the country. And his running mate is even less intelligent.

How does McCain even thing he would help being in D.C.? After all, wasn't he the one who said he doesn't know anything about the economy. He'd just get in the way and slow everything down.

This debate has been in my calendar for weeks. I want to see it.

A president needs to face multiple issues at one time. There is no reason to cancel this debate.

Yes! That's right Senator Obama, a president should be able to multi-task! There is no hiding, McBush. Prepare to get your posterior handed to you by Barack!

No way, no how–no McSpin/Failin!

08AMA/BIDEN!

Talk about change I do not think Obama has the experience to do anything but talk, talk, talk. Lets get someone who will do, do, do.

As the facts start to come out this was a cynical attempt by the McCain camp to play ploitics with a national crisis. If there is anything needed rigt now, it is a debate between McCain adn Obama on how they will face and deal with issues like this.

Lets see...On the one hand we have an economy that is collapsing and on the other, we have the U of Mississippi that has sold tickets for a debate. Which is more important?
Obama needs to put aside politics and get to work, taking care of the people's business, which is voting like he is supposed to do and not playing politics. There will be plenty of time for that later.

I support McCain in his decision. Country First not Obama's response ME FIRST! You would think that OBAMA will welcome the cancellation of the the debate since he has no foreign policy experience.

Good statement Obama!This is exactly the TIME to debate.
Americans want to hear from candidates NOW!
If McShame won't show up on debates-let him and his runningmate
who also scared to death ,just drop off thr race.

You have the best economic minds in Washington working on this bailout plan right now. What could John McCain, a man who thought our economic fundamentals were strong, possibly bring to the table. This it a political ploy plain and simple.

(CNN please post this – you never post my comments)

Looks like that one BACKFIRED McCain !

Hahahahaha now who looks like they can't multitask and handle numerous senerios at once.

McCain calls this upcoming debate a "photo op".

WHAT THE HELL DID PALIN JUST DO YESTERDAY WITH THE WORLD LEADERS??

THEY CALLED HER GORGEOUS, NICE.

The didn't call her "SMART", THAT'S FOR SURE!!

The two are not incompatible. Let them go to the Senate and keep the debate on in the evening. Otherwise McCain has to explain how he is planning to have all potential crises come to him one at a time in between his naps.

Thanks McCain but NO Thanks... I find it funny how Obama called McCain at 8:00 am this morning asking him to join him in helping out with this issue in Washington and then at 3:00 pm... or so... McCain calls the news media and claims again, to be our hero... I also find it funny that McCain wants to save us from McCain and his voting choices he has made this past 8 years... Oh, ya.. I saved the best for last... McCain can't save us from McCain without the help of Obama, so he calls Obama in the afternoon and asks him to cancel the debate so he can save the world from his own mess. Go ahead Obama... Debate the empty suite!

Senator Obama is exactly right. Now is the time for our country to hear the debate on the economic issues as well as the other issues that face our country. Nothing is preventing Senator Obama and Senator McCain to do what they deem appropriate on the bailout package. This is a politcal trick on McCain's part. A President needs to be able to multi-task.

Dang obama screwed up already...In 40 days GEORGE W. BUSH will still be in charge.....the next president won't take office for at least another 180 days....does obama hope to pull off a coup...

Hey Mary,
Once again, Obama puts the election ahead of the American people.
When are you idiots going to wise up??

Just so you know, we have wised up, to the Republican games. Cancelling the debates is just another distraction. We all know that McCain isn't ready or capable of debating Obama. You know as well as the rest of us that once the debates are over, it's all over for the McShame Camp.

If my American history is correct, Abraham Lincoln ran for re-election in the midst of our Civil War. The meldown of Wall Street is not sufficent cause to postpone the most critical national campaign of the last 75 years six weeks before election day. BRING IT ON!

McCain is not suspending his campaign at all. The fact is he is not POTUS, nor is he a key leader of Congress in this matter. He's really trying to use the situation to advance his campaign.

He pulled much the same stunt when Hurricane Gustav was approaching in the days before the Republican convention. He went down to Mississippi for a big photo op to make it look like he was helping. He was nowhere near the Gulf Coast when Ike rolled in a couple of weeks later. He'd been there and done that.

MCbush is looking very weak ,and he's plunging in all the poll's

What's next? Will McCain want to suspend Election Day?

McLoser!

McCain is hiding behind a crisis that he has had no small role in creating, going back 26 years as an opponent of reasonable market regulation. Contrary to what "Belle" has said, Obama is "showing up". We need to hear from the next president what he would do to address this economic crisis and set the economy right again. The public needs to hear the candidates now more than ever. Tell me, when McCain is not debating, will he be huddling with the policy makers? With Congress? What precisely is he proposing to do when he's not debating?

WAY TO GO! A PRESIDENT HANDLES MORE THAN ONE CRISIS AT A TIME!

Can we please just go ahead and inaugurate Obama now?

I don't think the country can go much longer with this farce of competent leadership in the White House or running on the Republican ticket.

Inaugurate Obama now!!!

I like a president that can do more than one thing at a time!

Thank you Obama for standing up to John McCain who right now, needs a cain.

By the way, the ELECTION IS the American future!! The current crisis will be handled we need to know the FUTURE!!! The debate is just as CRITICAL!!!

McCain is still on page 22 of his comprehensive reading of "Economics for Dummies". He can't possibly finish the book in time.
<

From the recent CNN article posted on-line:

Regarding McCain's call to join him in Washington to help participate in the debate over the economic recovery plan, Obama said: "I will be anywhere at any time," he said. "If you need us I'll be there."

As one of only 100 US Senators, he says : IF you need us? If he really thinks he's not needed in his Senate job right now, why does that job exist to begin with. And he's qualified to be President?? Will he show up there, too, IF he's needed??

Yes, it should go on. But can they debate the economic issues instead of foreign affairs? If they only debate on foreign affairs, then Americans will not like the debate.

Way to go Obama. Continuing with the debate Is putting Country First!
I'm so glad that the self made Obama, didn't allow a person who has always decided to ride on daddy and grandpappy's coat tails to call the shots.

We all know that McSame would be a truck driver at best if he wasn't handed everything from his folks and heiress. 9 homes and 13 cars. If he's soo concerned about the economy, why doesn't he suggest that they shift the topic of the debate to the economy.

Sheesh! Read a newspaper or watch the news on a network other than "Fixed" News. McCain wanted Obama to challenge him in a "town hall" format. McCain will do anything not to debate, because Obama will destroy him.

Obama miss a chance to spread more lies on National TV, no way. Thats what Obama is all about.
Instead of caring about the real issues and doing his CURRENT JOB as a U.S. Senator, Obama would rather run his mouth on National T.V. Instead of hammer out a solution..
What Happened to "CHANGE", "reaching across the aisles"

Obama all talk no record no action.

Go McCain

Another "PRESENT" in Washington for Obama. He would rather bicker at a debate with no solution then actually go tackle the problem. What did he say oh there is enough making decisions what a lame excuse. Schumer is another idiot who conviently never mentions Barney Frank in all this mess with Fanny.

The debate should go on. Go Obama/Biden

The foul stench of desperation.
Sen Obama is making the right decision.

MD, TX

Obama already said he would vote on the bill despite McCain statement from yesturday that his vote on the bill did not matter. McCain hasn't shown up to vote in washington since April. The economic crisis occurred last week. If he was concerned about the economy, why didn't he go back to washington to solve this problem then. It is a gimmick.

The debates are all about talk – just as Obama is all about talk. This is not about "multi-tasking", it's about recognizing a priority and focusing on solving a major problem in our country. Close your mouth and go to work to do what we pay you to do. Obama should welcome a chance to show us he can do something. Wouldn't it be nice to have at just one item on his "list of accomplishment" as an elected official? Stop talking and try leading, Barack.

GONE BOY. That's right. Have the debates. If McCain was concerned about the economy, he would have made different policy decisions like the other Republicans and Democrats that agreed with deregulation. Belle please, every time McCain gets in a bind one of the weak Republicans (who is making a shambles of the party) makes an excuse. Republicans use to be strong, now we're a bunch of whiners.

This is a no-brainer guys. Senator Obama and Senator McCain has a job – to serve us. McCain for political reasons or not decided to go back and do his job and I applaud him for it. Obama should go back and do his job as well. Yes, the debate should go on but is the campaign more important than the economy???

Guys, hello, we pay the senators – don't you realize that – don't you realize both of these gentlemen have neglected their jobs!

Mr. "Independent but leaning":

Did you not hear Obama say how the economic crisis relates to foreign policy? Have you also

I'll drink to that!

So, McCain states that he's throwing negative ads because Obama refused to show up and do town-hall style debates with him.

Now it's time for an actual debate, and McCain is the first one to blink. He knows that Obama is better at this then he is, and Obama has actually been practicing this week while McCain has not – so he wants to get out while he can.

What a worthless political ploy. Obama's character was good before,but now it's fantastic.. just because the person he's compared to keeps sinking lower and lower and lower.

BIG HERO'S a CHICKEN! McSame can't face the GOP failure of all his cronie buddies! We deserve a debate. McOldie can't multi-task-that means he can't handle being the President!

What?!? This is outrageous! Typical democrat, trying to politicize something like a presidential debate!

Hey, if big baby McChicken is too scared to debate, just say so, you big baby.

McCain has been absent from voting in the senate since April. He will get in the way by showing up for a photo op. when all he has to do is make the republicans aware of what he wants in the bail out package.

I hope that people do not buy the McCain camp trying to get their own bail out from the voters. Do not let him slide by, the American people deserve better.

MCCAIN HAS HIS TAIL BETWEEN HIS LEGS

i agree the debate should go on as scheduled. if mr. mccain does not want to attend so be it. one candidate that will debate and to date has not been invited is Libertarian candidate Bob Barr. the cpd should allow him in to the debates.

Absolutely, some people still are trying to decide who to vote for.

McCain and Obama in Washington is exactly what the American public DOES NOT need right now. Let the Banking Committee do its work free from the campaign cameras and the political posturing. Let the two candidates announce whatever positions they may have, and show up when it is time to cast their votes.

Neither of the candidate's economic expertise will be missed while those who do have the expertise formulate a plan.

I have never been more impressed with Obama than I was after watching this statement.

I dont think its ever been more obvious how they will run the White House then what your seeing today.

Hes just soo much more reasonable, his positions are well thought out and not just a political stunt.

Mccain runs into a problem, doesnt think reacts just insanely.

We need Obama/Biden in the White House

From Huffington Post:
John McCain has skipped more votes during this session than any member of the Senate except for Tim Johnson, who had major brain surgery. He has cast a single vote in five months, since April 9. All of a sudden, McCain is demanding that the presidential race shut down so he can return to Washington?

Isn't Palin qualified to step in while McCain debates Obama?

Obama has spent 3 days holed up in a hotel room preparing...There's no way he wants to delay the debate in order to take care of a critical issue like the economy...He might forget all that stuff that his coaches have been cramming into his head...

Dont let him weasle out of it. Hound him mercifullessly!!!!!!!!

A tactical move by McCain.
He's losing the race based on the economy, which would be a large part of the debates. So what does he do? Makes a pitch to delay them under the pretense of sorting the situation out, which just happens to have the benefit of getting him past some of the bump in the debates, based on the economy.
Also if Obama plays ball, it looks like McCain is a leader for proposing it and if Obama doesn't he can point and say Obama isn't interested in solving the situation, just wants to further his career.
If only McCain was as shrewd at governing as he is at campaigning.

Good for OBAMA!!!! The debate must continue...and to all those that are in favor of McCain...go home and cry.....Obama is running a good campaign and we need the leadership he is presenting...this is what America needs...not an implusive move that McCain did...

Republican lies and political games – how sick I am from these sleazy, greedy, and arrogant people!! They know they are loosing and surely using every tiny opportunity to score political points! This latest crisis began more than a week ago, why McCain suddenly is panicking? Why he decided to do it now?! McCain doesn't understand even basics of economy – he is useless to the bailout discussions anyway! People, I hope you can see through these and other republican lies and political games!! Barack should not agree to anything that McCain is suddenly proposing now. If McCain doesn't show up for the debate, Barack should use this opportunity to talk to people about this economic crisis and what he plans to do.

Obama-Biden 2008!

nice going NOBAMA...........always.....politics first

Senator Obama shows why he deserved to win the nomination as the Democratic Presidential nominee. His statement is right on point. I don't see President Bush postponing the war in Iraq to deal with the financial crisis in the United States.

Obama called McScared first this morning to work things out. Than, before they did, McScared went on TV to try and cancel everything. I thought McScared always looked like a little wimp. I can see how he got shot down in his plane and captured now.

Obama would rather talk then work what do you expect from this clown. If only he was a mime.

Thank Goodness! Way to go Obama. Now THAT is leadership!

Not only is Palin running away from the media Now John McCain is running away from a debate, I am sure Senate and congress can function without McCain he has been absent for most of his time as a Senator why change the habit of the last twenty six years.

Being as McCain carries in large part the responsibility for the de-regulation that was a major component of this crisis he should go to the Senate and apologize for his errors of policy and judgment.

@Independent but Leaning

Are you really sure Obama is not going to tie this economic mess with the war in Iraq ??
Most of people think he will, will he succeed is another question?

Debate should be held! Americans need to hear their plans to handle this economic disaster caused by eight years of Bush failed policies backed by McSHAME. If you cannot multi task you should not be running for President! Why is McShame now wanting to be involved when up to now he's not even communicated his position to the committee????? More McShame grandstanding...................

Dear Belle,

Obama can multi-task which is an excellent trait for a world leader.

McCain obviously is unable to multi-task.

McWar is NOT READY FOR THE DEBATE.....so

He's trying to pospone it and look like a LEADER HE IS NOT

WHERE IS PALIN?......I thought she was with the expertise.....right

TO ALL THE REPUBLICAN BLOGGING ON HERE:

THE DEBATE IS NOT FOR YOU..BECAUSE IT IS OBVIOUS THAT YOU HAVE DECIDED TO VOTE FOR MCCAIN NO MATTER WHAT? THE DEBATE IS FOR THOSE PEOPLE THAT ARE UNDECIDED.

ALL OF A SUDDEN IS COUNTRY FIRST...WHERE WAS BUSH/MCCAIN WHEN ALL THIS WAS HAPPENING.....NO WHERE BECAUSE THEY WERE TOO DUMB TO SEE IT COMING.

DEBATE MUST GO ON.

Pure cut and run by McCain. If that call comes at 3:00, I hope it's 3:00 AM when he's up because we all know 3:00 PM is nap time.

Delay – Avoid – Lie – Deceive – Ignore – Thwart – Hide – Run – and above all, not to debate. Go OBAMA Go BIDEN!!!!!!!!!!!

Fact is McCain can go clean up this mess AND do the debate. He doesn't need to spend a week in "debate camp" to prep on foreign policy. The offer to delay the debate was McCain just trying to let Obama save face. Smooth move, Obama.

I entirely agree with Obama on this–you don't pick and choose in which situations you act as president and in which you do not. We deserve to know how the next president will improve our economy and our country–taking time off doesn't demonstrate your ability to act, and it certainly doesn't tell the American people how you'd act as president. Weak McCain, weak.

Yes, We can, we must debate.

Nothing short of a stall tactic....The American People need this debate to occur because we need to know what our new leaders plan is going to be.....McCain is stalling because he is simply isnt prepared to answer the tough questions. DEBATE MUST GO ON.

Andy September 24th, 2008 5:12 pm ET

As usual, Mr. Obama abstain from voting on the issue.
_____________________________________________

What a load of crap. It is possible for both of them to vote on this AND show up for the debate. McCain just can't concentrate on more than one thing at once. Kinda like Bush.

What I want to know is why doesn't CNN report the ACTUAL WORDS Obama said, but instead just say "he says it should go on".

Even Cafferty just said it like that as I type this. This sux.

So here it is: " "It's my belief that this is exactly the time when the American people need to hear from the person who in approximately 40 days will be responsible for dealing with this mess," Obama said

Report THAT CNN!!!

Mr. Obama has got it exactly right. What's more, the LAST thing this country needs is to have John McCain, whose zeal for deregulation was largely responsible for the mess we're in, make a pretense of trying to help fix the problem. He has already acknowledged that he doesn't know as much about economics as he should. So, we look forward to seeing him on Friday night , trying to have an intelligent interchange with Mr. Obama. Of course, he could perhaps send his understudy to fill in for him. She won't blink. Right?

I could not agree with Obama more on this! The president of the United States of America should be able to handle a War, Economic Crisis, Multiple natural disasters plus an Energy Crisis simultaneously.

This is simply a political time out that McCain is calling for. Were Obama to agree to the cease-fire, McCain would come out the leader. A bold attempt that could backfire if Obama does not agree and presents his argument convincingly!

Do not want to hear you and John debate on Friday about what you say you are going to do –NEED YOU AND YOUR VOTE BACK IN WASHINGTON–don't need you saying how you would have voted –or what you would have done –on Friday-not voting is a cop out . Not going back to Washington and helping get this mess straighten out is not acceptable. Go back and do your duty.....the both of you

So what ar we going to do? Postpone the November elections too and keep Bush in office? HELL NO.

We only have a few weeks left and in all this time, these two have not had a debate yet.

As citizens, we deserve the right to have the time to make up our minds on who we're going to pick for president.

Delaying the debate will not help our economy, but it will hurt the voting process for all Americans.

This just shows that Obama is only looking after himself and NOT that of the American people.

Nobama is truly full of it!

McCain/Palin 2008

Hillary Clinton 2012

Hmmm, for a POW, McCain sure is a coward.

Right on, Obama. Don't fall for McCain's stunts. He has been absent for senate votes more than any other senator. Besides, his chief economic advisor, Phil Gramm, was the architect of the disaster we are now facing.
And, in case we have forgotten – since the MSM is reluctant to remind us – McCain was one of the instigators of the Keating 5 S&L scandal of the '80s. McCain is simply looking at the polls and realizes taht he is unprepared to debate Obama. What a wuss! What a liar! Bring it on, I say!

Obama said he will be Washington if they need him.

I really don't think he is needed anyway. more than half of his time is not on the job. Why American people need him for?

Wow, Obama turns down all of McCain's invitations to have more debates, but now thinks that debating is very important.

What is happening right now in congress concerning this bail-out plan is the single most important thing that congress will do this year, probably in the upcoming years.

The debate can wait until a later day. 5 or 6 days to postpone the debate will not hurt anything.

Postponing, or not being part of the most important policy that will shape the upcoming years would be disastrous for this country.

I will admit that this is quite shrewd of McCain, but I also think that it is the right thing to do.

You're wrong Obama! The campaign and debates are distractions! We pay you to do work. Stop playing politics and get some work done. We can't wait 40 days to deal with this mess. We need you and McCain to go back to work and fix this problem. Put aside politics for just once Senator!

McCain shows up in Washington to help gain a solution to our economical war while Obama hides behind a teleprompter

McCain gets it. He knows this is more imporant than the election right now. We need action right now. Not words.

BRAVO.. Sen. Obama.

Your speech is EXACTLY WHY you will be our NEXT PRESIDENT.

As President you HAVE to be able to multi-tasks and deal with more than one crisis. That's the nature of the beast. I expect our next President to be able to handle more than one crisis at a time.

For John McCain to announce a "delay" and use the Bail Out as an EXCUSE is truly disgraceful.

It is MORE important now for voters to hear both candidates in a debate!! The debate will provide a more detailed exposure when it comes to the issues facing our country.

To delay the debate IS NOT AN OPTION!!!

SORRY JOHN McCAIN.

MCCAIN MUST THINK WE'RE STUPID!

THE MAN HASN'T SHOWED UP FOR A VOTE IN MONTHS, AND NOW HE'S "CONCERNED"? PLEASE SPARE ME!

IF YOU'RE SCARED, JUST SAY YOU'RE SCARED, JOHN! WE ALREADY KNEW THAT ANYWAY!

GOP TROLLS, FEEL FREE TO DEFEND THIS MOVE, WHILE WE POINT AND LAUGH AT YOU!!

Obama is right. Presidents should be able to handle more than one situation. Why can't he be in contact with Washington and have the debate at the same time. In the real world, things happen. You can't just stop the wheel and get off, as John is trying to do.

Funny how John wants to stop campaigning when he's down in the polls. I'm glad Barack and others can see through the charades.

Obama/Biden 08

FURTHER..................I guess EVEN if Obama is in the SENATE........HIS VOTE WILL BE ANOTHER "PRESENT" ...NOT A YES OR NO VOTE! HE'S A NOTHING AND HE STANDS FOR NOTHING.
If Americans vote for this ridiculous candidate, who is totally inexcperienced and unqualified for the Presidential Office, then they DESERVE THIS IDIOT. An education does not make a person qualified to be President of this Great Nation. Obama should fold his tent and head back to Washington, D.C. and to the Senate AND WORK ......WHERE HE SHOULD HAVE BEEN FOR THE LAST 3 1/2 YEARS!!! Even if Obama knows NOTHING AOBUT THE SENATE...that's where he belongs during this CRISIS!!! What a FOOL!!

Multi-tasking is a necessary skill for anyone who wants to run the country. Does McCain also want to put off the debate until the war in Iraq is over? (That would, after all, get us about $1 billion/day back into the U.S. economy.) Does he want us to wait until oil prices are back under $3? (It'll take at least 10 years for any oil to drip out of the "drill, baby, drill" solution he's posing).

The economy has been on the downward slide for years, the Treasure Dept and Fed have been drafting this plan for months, and now is not the time to act noble. It's time to debate. Let America decide who's best to handle this crisis, as it's definitely going to be on one of these two men's plate starting January 20.

Bring on intelligent debate. Enough posturing.

Scared little righties? Now run off and spin this. Neither McSame or Obama are on the Senate banking/finance committee. There is no legislation drafted yet and the FBI is investing. Don't you guys remember?...It's an on-going investigation. Run Johnny run!
BTW can someone please shut down the low hum in the background from the right? It's annoying listening to static!

This debate is about Foreign Policy it has nothing to do with the economy.

Please any Republican PLEASE answer my question please
why Mrs Palin is not allow to talk to the gournalist and Why Mr Mcain after month and month saying that he wants to debate with Obama Now wants to suspend the debate because he wants to deal with the economy????
all this is increible specially when the two Mrs palin/Mr mcain want to
be on top of the world game as P/VP of USA,WAKE UP AMERICAN TIME IS RUNNING OUT VOTE FOR OBAMA OR DON!T COME CRYING IN 4 YEAR FROM NOW.

Independent but Leaning September 24th, 2008 5:13 pm ET

Obama is a joke. It's always Obama first.

"It's my belief that this is exactly the time when the American people need to hear from the person who in approximately 40 days will be responsible for dealing with this mess," Obama said.

This is the FOREIGN POLICY DEBATE YOU DOOFUS- they're not going to be talking about this economic issue.
---------------------------
Dear Independent but leaning....
you're not fooling anyone....you've leaned so much to the right, any more you'll back-flip. You're squarely in the right wing minority. Plus you're the idiot if you can't see how our domestic policy has a lot to do with foreign policy. sheesh! Republicans... you can spot them a mile away!

Obama/Biden '08

M in Manhattan
I CAN'T TOP WHAT YOU POSTED. IT IS PERFECT!!!!

GOOD FOR YOU BARACK!! YES YES YES WE CAN!!

What is Sarah Palin doing with World leaders when economy is in crisis? Playing politics?

Why not send Sara Palin, McCain's choice to be #2, to Washington, while McCain debates Obama?

Obama is ABSOLUTELY correct. The debate has to go on. We need to hear from both of them in the middle of this mess and see what they would do in guiding the future of our country.
Senator McCain is trying to make a GRANDSTAND move..this was PURELY political!!
What is really unfortunate is the number of Americans who will believe the SPIN that it is showing he is putting the country first....What a line of........

YOUR DARN RIGHT the Debate should go on as scheduled! Obama is 100% RIGHT and if it's a Poor Time for John McCain He Can Stay Home! Nobody will miss him! Since when is the world and American Politics supposed to check John's Schedule before they plan anything? He is so pathetic he is beyond Pitiful! .. Either get your BiG Boy's Voice ready for Friday John or spend the eve in one of your eight Houses! Your Choice!

Neither Obama nor McCain are president. They are two Senators in 100 out of hundreds more on Capital Hill that are working on this problem. If a *candidate* is crucial to this process, which doesn't need the partisan bickering of the current campaign, then there's something seriously wrong with this country.

MCCAIN IS TRYING TO MAKE HIMSELF LOOK LIKE HE'S DOING THE RIGHT THING FOR THE COUNTRY. WHAT MCCAIN IS DOING IS TRYING TO COVERUP HIS SON'S INVOLVEMENT IN THE FAILED SILVER BANK IN WHICH HIS SON WAS CEO. MCCAIN'S SON RESIGNED 2 MONTHS BEFORE IT FAILED STATING IT WAS FOR PERSONAL REASONS. REMEMBER DURING THIS TIME MCCAIN WAS IN ARIZONA EVERY WEEKEND DURING THIS TIME. MCCAIN AKA KEATING 5 IS THE SAME AND MCCAIN SHOULD BE INVESTIGATED IN A COVERUP.

Hey Belle -

So then are you voting for Mr Hasn't Shown Up To Vote On Anything In The Senate Since March?

John McCain is suspending his campaign to help solve this issue with our Economy, and all Barack Obama cares about is having one of those televised, soft-ball "debates"?

I'm glad to see someone put their country above playing the political game.

There you go Barack! You are absolutely correct, sir. There has never been a more important time to have this debate. Let the congress, the treasury and the white house work out the details. McCain needs to get his clueless butt ( fundamentals of the economy sound- to-worse crisis since 9/11, all in the same week) back on the campaign trail and the debate so he can lie some more about his vision and knowledge.

Did McSame has his flag pin on when he made
the request?

Glad that the people in AZ are getting a voice in this (Way to go John McCain).

I believe Senator McSame is PANICKED!
Good Job Obama.

Whoever thinks Obama is putting politics over ther american people is an idiot.

McCain is wrong to help with the negotiations for more than one reason:

* McCain is involved in a presidential campaign and any advice they give may have "campaign" influence
* McCain has no idea how to fix the economy
* Why would you suspend a debate on this very topic, plus others? Now is the time that we need to know where they stand!
* Why would Obama join a "'commission" with the catalyst of the whole economic downslide? (Bush/Cheney)

WAKE UP AMERICA and STOP BELIEVING these obvious diversions set to distract you from the truth. McCain is not mentally able to run the country.

If McCain was up 9 points, do you think he'd slow his momentum down??? THINK ON THAT ONE!

YES YES LETS DEBATE

COME OUT & DEBATE MCCAIN, DONT BE SCARED

In today's complicated world we need a president that has the mental, intellectual and physical capacities to handle MULTIPLE critical situations simultaneously. The world of today can not wait for McCain. He PROVED today that these challenges are beyond his abilities and capacities.

McCain —"The dog ate my homework"

A diversion tactic. Look – Haley's Comet!!!!

To all the Republicans out there… .What happened to personal responsiblity. Let these banks pull themselves up out of this muck.

To Wall Street:

Jump, Baby, Jump!

Let the bad ones fail. Good banks will take their place.

A few weeks ago the Fed allowed these firms to come to the discount window and borrow money. Why haven't they been using this… because the interest is less than 4%….and they want a free bail out?

Yet these same banks want to charge 29% to their credit card holders!

They should all go to the top of their skyscrapers and JUMP!.

Jump, Baby, Jump

Say no to:
More War McCain &
Taliban Palin

Another rash move by McCain. I'm glad Obama can keep his head.

@Democrats....a party divided....I LOVE IT!! September 24th, 2008 5:02 pm ET

Of course Obama still wants to debate……..otherwise he might actually have to do his JOB……….a voting member of the Senate!!!!!

____________________________________________________
i mean you do realize McCain has not cast a vote since April....right?
i mean really you must be exhibiting sarcasm with those remarks because other wise people might just think your stupid or something.McCain is just playing high drama since he thought the fundamentals of the economy are strong...what will he have to offer Friday? he was the one who said he does not know economy...right? this smells like yet another political gimmick, much like the 300 million dollar battery or Sarah Palin. either McCain is afraid to debate Obama or he feels it is impossible for him to do two things at one time. either way, i am not impressed. it is the Repubs holding back

THIS STUNT BY MCCAIN WILL NOT WORK!

And what does it matter? Obama will just vote "present" as always. He says all things to all people, but is never willing to take a stand. "Yes we can" – Yes we can what? What is it he proposed to do? If this crisis continues through the week, the markets will completely crash by early next week. Morgan Stanley and Goldman will collapse, thousands more jobs will be lost, smaller banks will fail, credit will vanish...

You don't think investors won't be shaky upon Paulson's warnings of "grave consequences" and sliding into a depression? The time to act is NOW.

America is in crisis.. the people that can help fix it should debate foreign policy??

JoBama- Self First

Is country even second?

I wonder what string of attacks McCain is going to justify now because Obama "didn't accept his invitation" to postpone the debate.

To all you Obama critics - There are 102 Senators, and McCain, by his own admission is not an economic expert, so what could he possibly do to help by being in Washington? They can fly to Washington to cast their vote if it happens before Friday, and they can contribute to any meetings and/or conferences by phone/webcam, etc. There is no way on earth that all 102 Senators and 435 Representatives can be useful in fixing this problem. If they went to Washington to "help" they would end up sitting in a room listening to economic advisers, which they can easily do from the road.

Bingo! McPain's political stunt will not work.

Wow.. watching this campaign is like watching a tennis match – back and forth.. back and forth.

I will say that McCain's attempt to stop campaigning and suspend the debate seems a bit selfish. A week ago he thought that the fundamentals of the economy were strong. He drops like a rock in the polls, and then he decides to pre-empt Obama's "bi-partisian memo" with a run to the press (who he's recently been hating) to talk about suspending campaigns and debates.

What exactly does McCain think he himself will accomplish by returning to Washington? Why was this not as important last week when he was doing well in the polls?

I'm still leaning twoards Obama – he seems to have his head on straight about this, and he doesn't pull knee-jerk reactions depending on where he is at in the polls. So far, he seems to be by far the more level headed of the two when it comes to a crisis.

Out of the Park. Out of the Park. That is Statesmanship!

MCCAIN , Obama is 100 Times smarter than you or your Cronies will ever be SORRY OLD MAN NO GIMIC WILL SAVE YOU FROM THE RUMBLE YOU HAVE BEEN BEGGING FOR FOR 6MO .

RUMBLE YOUNG MAN RUMBLE !!!!!!!!!!!!

if mccain doesnt show up who will obama debate? obama called mccain this am and left a message to call him back.....didnt even indicate what it was about.......well one thing maybe he can give a speech using a tele-prompter........i would think obama should be a senator for the state of chicago right now as he does represent them........if he is so great on the economy maybe he should go to washingtion and make his great suggestions......

Md tx you know the end is near. Al I have to say is Ha,Ha, Ha, Ha, Ha, HA.

American politics are nasty and divisive because the people of america are nasty and divisive.

Don't belive me? Read the other comments. People always get what they deserve.

Way to go Senator Obama. Just your style with flowery words and no action. Senator McCain is a leader prepared to act in emergency situations. You sir, are all talk.

Mccain is getting desperate – for him it is all about win at any cost – he should not make this bail out part of his campaign – he is becoming quite pathetic

Of course the debate should not be cancelled. We need to have the opportunity to see these two candidates on the same stage at the same time and hopfully there will actually be some real-time back and forth debate.

Early voting has started – there is no time to waste by postponing the debate.

A president must be able to do more than one thing at a time.

Can someone please tell me, how do so many people continue to completely DEFEND McCain. Don't we as Americans deserve to hear how someone who may be our next president intends to run our country?

The idea of Palin in office scares me to death, and quite frankly I don't want to take Laura Bush's opinion of her or other Rep. talking heads. I WANT TO MAKE AN INFORMED DECISION FOR MYSELF. GIVE ME AS AN AMERICAN SOME CREDIT PLEASE!!!

This is not a popularity contest. I like Obama/Biden because I do know where they stand on some things…………..Isn't that what this election is about?

CNN PLEASE POST THIS!!!

Good for him! Congress has managed to keep on trucking since these campaigns began and they can do just fine with two senators out of the office for a while. And he is absolutely right: the American people need to know what they stand for, and a debate is how that is done. McCain's power play is transparent and it is clear that his economic stance is shaky and unclear and he is afraid to face Obama in debate.

RE:

CM September 24th, 2008 5:09 pm ET

"let the people responsible resolve this matter?"

HE IS A SENATOR, JUST LIKE McCAIN!
IT'S THEIR RESPONSIBILITY!

Has everyone forgotten what their day to day jobs really are. Well my tax dollars pay them to be senators. Right now they should be in Washington taking care of what my tax dollars pay them to do. I do not pay them to debate or campaign for that matter. My boss would fire me if I left my job for months on end and I sure would not continue getting a paycheck in the mean time. and if Obama was the one who suggested postponing the debate the bird would be singing a different song. I don't need them to tell me what they would do right now, Because no one knows how to really fix this mess with the exception of Dave Ramsey. I certainly do not need to hear more political bashing right now. I know I don't want to bail out irresponsible home owners who bought more house than they could afford. and that is what the Democrats are trying to tack on to this. And yes I am a democrat but I am tired of bailing people out and getting nothing back for doing the right things and paying my bills etc....

Yea, just like Obama, he's been in debate camp preparing for his moment to debate (its ALL about him), who cares that he is still a Senator and getting a paycheck, but he does not want to put running for President aside for a few days to handle this fin. mess. Give credit to McCain, for caring about trying to solve this mess that liberals like Obama help create, by giving loans (houses) to people who you would not have given a car loan to... give me a break.

we need a leader that can handle many things at one and well. if McCain ducks this one he will loose my vote

Thank you Obama, for putting some sense in this mess.....

Come on McCain........how much does Congress REALLY get done on a FRIDAY?????

YOU CAN"T HIDE NOW!

Maybe Obama can ask his cronies from Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae what he should do. A bailout for individual homeowners who cant afford their house is a joke. Can I quit paying mu mortgage and get the same deal?

I think John wants to debate maybe he do care this time that the world is fulling all around him. Obama isn't that good of a debater lets say this he didn't make it on the Harvard debate team. So maybe it's God sent that John is asking for a time out. I still say that Obama will make a better leader for this nation just not the great debater.

Since when is selected the next President not putting your country first? Would McCain suspend the election to handle a crisis that has admitted he knows nothing about (economy)?

This is the time when Americans really need to know who the canidates are. 40 days left means no time for these childish stunts from the GOP.

Bring on the debates!

Of course they should debate, unless McCain wants to suspend the election as well. We need to hear from the candidates on the issues. McCain does not want the economy front & center. It is hard to explain that when you are against regulations, this is what happens. Also when you vote with the President 95% of the time.

GO OBAMA/BIDEN

Further down it says that McCain will agree to debate if the proposed $700 billion bail out goes through. That tells you whose side he's on and it's not the side of the working American.

The nerve of this man! He's holding the process hostage so his buddies can steal from us, our children, and our grandchildren. Do you have any more questions about who you should vote for?

CNN, print this!

Obama's response is perfect. At 8:30 a.m. Obama sent word to John McCain privately that he wanted McCain to join him in a bi-partisan effort to get the economy back on track. He did this privately so as not to politicize the situation further. Hours later, McCain makes the very public announcement that he wants to suspend his campaign, and postpone the debate. If you look at the news, the only thing that has changed in the last 24 hours is that McCain's polling numbers have tanked. McCain's campaign suspension is a political stunt. It's the furthest thing from Presidential. Obama is right- if McCain can't multitask, he has no business contemplating the Presidency.

I have sooo much respect for Obama...we, the American people, need to know were these candidates stand on the issues...McSane is pulling out another DISTRACTION...AMERICA WAKE UP TO McSHAME being a HOT HEAD!!!

Obama/Biden 08

John McCain is going to ride to the rescue?

The one who admitted "I don't know much about the economy"?

The one who said just last week "The fundamentals of our economy are strong?"

The one who has devoted much of his political life to the kind of deregulation that is to blame for this mess?

The one who has become such a laughingstock on the subject that no politician of either party is likely to listen to anything he says?

Thanks, but no thanks, John. Don't do us any favors.

McCain is so full of it!

If he did'nt want this to be a political move, be would have discussed it with Barack in private, NOT THROUGH THE MEDIA.

McCain wants everyone to think that Barack is not a true statesman since he still wants to debate on Friday as planned.

This is a CHEAP TRICK. I hope America is NOT fooled by it.

That's right! You tell em' Obama. If McCain can't handle multi-tasking, then he's not fit to be our president.

Come Seniors! Vote for OBAMA!!!

even though CNN never puts my comments through....all i have to say is..

obama is pro-multi-tasking!!

perhaps mccain is just worried about having to come up with REAL reasons as to why people should vote for him. most of the time he stands up there and rails on obama. but this time obama is going to be there..he will have to actually stick to talking about the issues..

we need a leader that can handle many things at one and well. if McCain ducks this one he will loose my vot

Obama is right, the debate should go on and will we see who is better for this country. Postponding will not fix the problem.

It is evidence that this mess has been building with the economy and at the time no-one seem to be concern. McCain sees the mess that he would not support those that suggested more needed to be done in regulations.

Good Job President obama! way to multi-task!

I'm with Obama. ENOUGH of that impulsive McCain's showboating and grandstanding!

This is exactly the time they should debate. One of them is going to handle this mess and we need to hear from them. I don't understand the need to cancel...if McCain was going to run to Washington he should have down that Day One...Roookie move McCain

Yes we can MULTI-TASK!!!!!!! He could possibly be president and he can't handle more than 1 thing @ once!!!! Lets think about 9/11 more than 1 plane, more than state!!!!

Obama/ Biden 08

Yes We Can Multi-Task
Wake Up America

I think the debate should go on because I want to hear what both the canidates have to say. Why whould anyone want to delay such a important debate. HUMMM is Mccain Not prepared.

@ girl texas

You certainly aren't a "Woman Texas." Probably more like a "pre-teen texas." Grow up! These are important times, and we do DESERVE a President who can think, and who doesn't pull the cheap political tricks that are McCain's typical M.O.

Yes, no vacation for MacCain. He wanted it , he got it!

The debate should go on! This is a ploy to destract voters. Stay focused and multi-task Mr. Mcain-the president of the USA should know how to do two things at one time

I smell a republican political rat. Grandstanding during this crisis is shameful. Love the Obama comment. "Presidents need to be able to do more than one thing at a time".

It's clearly McCain who is playing politics.

The fact that McCain ducks the debate doesn't not make me feel the he puts the Country first ! Attending the debate is to show your responsibility to your People, your Country. Debate is not serving for any single politician, it's for the people, for us who are casting our votes !!

I agree – if you can't multitask, how do you expect to be president.

Bin Laden is back, say's Bin Biden. In the form of Bin Obama????

When the reporter flubbed up and said, "President McCai, excuse me Senator McCain........." I think I threw up in my mouth a little.

What better of a subject to debate about than the economy??? Unless you been wearing blinders it has been the economy that has been slapping us in the face for a long time now. Game on. Let's finally debate and discuss issue that actually means something, not "Lipstick on a pig". Issues my friends... Issues...

I am beginning to see a pattern of nearly tragic lack of imagination on the part of McCain and his camp. They cannot tell the difference between a national catastrophe (e.g., 9/11 [and its anniversaries], Hurricane Gustav/Ike, etc.) which requires the emotional space afforded by a suspension of a campaign, and something like this Wall Street crisis that–while unimaginably enormous in scale–is ultimately a technical debate between economic theories. While the outcome may hurt American wallets and (if a complete meltdown occurs) may eventually have an emotional toll, that is NOT where the American public is now.

In fact, treating this as the same as a Hurricane Gustav warps the whole dialogue. It is a cheap, desperate gimmick on McCain's part. I hope no one bites that this makes him look "presidential".

It reminds me how he could only think in terms of a "surge" to approach the economy. Again, one-track mind..... no imagination.

Let The Debate Go On!

McCain and Obama are two Senators out of 100, not to mention the 435 members of the House of Representatives, who all must contribute to moving the 700 billion dollar bailout forward. There is absolutely no U.S. economy-based need for McCain to suspend his campaign.

Instead, change the focus of the debate to the economy! There is no need to delay having these two candidates, one of whom will become our next president, answering and asking questions before the American people. But there is a need for all Americans to quickly get a clear understanding of what these two candidates plan to do for our economy, war effort, environment, and so much more!

The debate should go on! Does anyone else agree?

Obama at his best...playing politics and putting his needs first.

yeah President should work on many things at a time. McCain shows he is old and can't handle stress like these and like to run away. losers do exactly like this..runaway

Yes, the debate should go on. McCain is up to his old tricks,,,he cannot be trusted! He's playing possum!
What, he can't do two things at one time?! What kind of a leader will he be?! There are multiple things happening right now in the great USA & if McCain is going to get tunnel vision he will not be able to lead.

Obama hasn't been in the Senate for most any legislative debate or vote during his term. Why should he start now.

Another poor judgment call for McCain, another presidential decision by our next president, Barack Obama. McCain is running scared, and with good reason.

Like McCain could help solve a problem. Pure grandstanding.

Be careful Sen Obama, Sen McSame will mimick your words, Debate
Debate yeah

"I think that it is going to be part of the president's job to deal with more than one thing at once."

WELL SAID !

Obama is a bucket of fluff.

Isn't it all of the moron's supporting Obama that have hacked on McCain for not dropping everything, and having a Birthday party during Katrina???

I guess, when you are stupid, facts don't matter.

Stupid people vote for Obama!!

Wise up and join the winners!

MCCAIN originally wanted to do a whole series of debates, now he can't handle 2-3 hours on friday. He could help the country by negotiating with the dems instead of holding press conferences about how he doesn't want to bail out

McCain's tired, he needs a nap after all this actual work

ONE NATION

Once again... McCain and the Republicans want to bail out because they look SO bad in the media right now. Obama's going to BLOW McCain away in the debate and McCain knows it!!

Just like Palin will find a way to get out of all REAL interviews and probably her debate too because both her and McCain are really lousy at debates and answering questions by the media. It's to their advantage to keep playing DUMB and NOT ANSWER QUESTIONS and NOT DEBATE.

They ALREADY look stupid enough in front of our nation as it is... no sense in making it worse, right Karl Rove??

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

Good the debate should move forward.

More GOP stall tactics, is McCain running out of campaign funds and can't advertise, people have wasted time and money to set up for this debate and now you want to delay show some presidential balls JM, stop looking for a bailout from the Senate

KNUCKLEHEAD

Umm...40 days? I'm preeeetttyyyyy sure that the next prez won't take office for another 3 1/2 months... In the meantime, Barack, you're still a senator! Get your butt to Washington!

I think you're just annoyed that McCain's people thought of this first...

Palin won't talk to the press. McCain won't debate. As someone who has voted for GOP candidates in the past (Bush 41 and Dole, but not W) I can sure say I would be ashamed to cast a vote for the GOP this year. What a sad sad ticket.

I agree with the first half of McCain's plan... Suspend his campaign. Period. I'm sure the rest of the Congress is waiting with bated breath to hear Professor McCain's take on the economy. He probably has it written on a 3×5 card just behind the one that says "Drill, Baby, Drill".

Just like him, He only work 143 days and now thinks he can run the usa. Give me a break.

There needs to be a debate. America wants to know about the report that the White House and Iraq had agreed on an early troop withdrawal timeline. However, the White House came back and asked to delay the withdrawal for another year due to political considerations at home. Bush trying to help McCain???

Out of the Park. Out of the Park. That is Statemanship!

I guess Obama would rather talk than actually have to do the job he has at the moment, a senator. Come on Obama...it won't take more than a moment to vote present. It just shows that he woud rather be in the spotlight than actually doing something for this country. McCain is ready and willing to get in there and do what is right.

Obama doesn't know how to do anything but stand in front of a mike and blow smoke up the you know what...and what is worse? There are people out there that believe him. God help this country if he steals the election. He sure won't be voted in.

Obama is demonstrating true, Presidential qualities. He is not running away from all of his responsibilities in an effort to back away from his problems. Senator McCain says he is trying to avoid the political nature of this crisis, yet is using it as a ploy. He is attempting to bolster his bona fides at the cost of informing the American people about his plans. This falls into his recent pattern of being the No Talk Express. The debates should go on. The campaign should go on.

You are right Obama, Mccain needs to be multitask. Being a president requires to deal with all issues that are on the table. The debate needs to take place to address this Financial crisis. McCain is reluctant because he is doesn't have the answer for the Americans

40 days will be responsible? 40 days? I believe if I'm not wrong today is September 24th and the new President doesn't take office until January, correct? Ok we have a problem Houston!

"...who will responsible for dealing with this mess."

Oh you mean the mess caused by the 1977 Community Reinvestment Act, the one that politically black-mailed banks into lending money to lowlifes and deadbeats, those who had zero means of ever making good on the loans? Is THAT the mess you're talking about?

Or is it the mess caused by the quasi-governmental slush-funds known as Fannie and Freddie, which ACTIVELY ENCOURAGED bad lending standards all in the name of affirmative action and political correctness? Or is THAT the mess you're talking about?

Stealing (EVEN MORE) money from the taxpayers to bailout the results of yet another failed liberal utopian feel-good, do-gooder program is certainly NOT the way to help a stumbling economy. It's more akin to handing a drowning man a sand-bag life preserver.

Yeah, Baby!!

Obama will be there with our without McCain.

FYI Huffington post reported that Obama made the initial call to McCain to delay the debate, but McCain took 6 hours to respond to the call and then immediately went to the press to annouce his desires to suspend the debate and respond to the market decline. McCain was attempting to take credit for the bi-partisan approach to deal with the melt-down. Ah-Ha!! Another sneaky move by McCain.

But Obama said "McCain, can't you multi-task? I'll be in DC and meet you at the debate too?" Back atcha! It's 3:00 am, and it takes McCain 6 hours to respond!!!

What has become both typical and disgusting is how John McCain is trying to use everything for public attention and political advantage while clearly demonstrating he has more interest in show than substance. Obama had contacted McCain early this morning and suggested that together they work with the congress and the White House to address the financial crisis in a bipartisan manner. Later in the day McCain responding saying he was receptive to doing just that and in making the joint statement suggested by Senator Obama. Then ever since, Senator McCain has been boldly trying to make everything sound like his idea, his initiation and so on, simply for public opinion and political advantage, with again very questionable sincerity and concern for other than his personal gain. McCain is not only dishonest but he is also obviously desperate!

"It's my belief that this is exactly the time when the American people need to hear from the person who in approximately 40 days will be responsible for dealing with this mess," Obama said.

This is the FOREIGN POLICY DEBATE YOU DOOFUS- they're not going to be talking about this economic issue.

----------

Wow, you are seriously mentally impaired. "This mess" is not only the economy or did you forget that there are two wars going on?

George W. Bush has cost John McCain 2 Presidential Elections now!!! Hahahahahahaha...

Obama is clearly a leader and all you Republican Conservatives are just jealous that you have no one but a shock jock, pill-popper to get out your "message" on talk radio and failed policies... again!

Obama/Biden: Because America needs to move forward, not backwards or running around in a circle chasing the tail of failed policies.

Way to tell them! And McCain thinks he's in touch. McCain doesn't have any clear logic in his brain. I think his cancer is back and has settled in his brain. He hasn't worried about Washington in months and now it's his number one priority, OH I forgot, our economy is strong, so why should he worry about it.

Obama - The one TRUE Leader

McCain - Cannot handle more than one issue at a time. Sign of a NON-LEADER.

At 3:00 am in the morning when the red phone ring at the white house McCain will not be able to answer it because he would not know what to do.

I think that it is going to be part of the president's job to deal with more than one thing at once."

AMEN
OBAMA/BIDEOM 08' 12'

I agree! No reason they both can not lend there opinion from the road. It is called modern tech Mccain, look it up for once!

I could not agree more. Don't take the bait Obama. You are truly looking Presidential.

An ability to multi task goes a long way Obama/ Biden 08

Why does Obama want to be President if he doesn't want to deal with the issues? Obama get your butt to Washington and try to make some sense out of this financial mess. Why are you running from this? McCain is absolutely doing the right thing – this debate needs to be rescheduled and Obama needs to present a plan to help us get out of this mess. Obama the world is watching!

Exactly, let BUSH handle BUSH's mess right now. He is the president still by the way. McCain is not the president yet. Obama and McCain don't need to bring their campaigns to Washington, because that is what is going to happen you know. I want a president in 40 days, not a senator. On with the campaigning and the debates!!!!

Look, McCain has had plenty of practice debating himself, now it is time for him to get up there and show us what he got. Besides he can't help out on economics. LOL

yeah away too go..Obama

Bush will go to hell!! so must all R lawmakers

Again, for the umteenth time - Obama - be careful what you pray for! Come on America, which one of these two candidates is putting America first in this instance of debating vs. solving the crisis. The name does NOT start with BO.

John is pandering he knows that his presence is going to make a lick of difference, he wants to label Obama as not caring about the crisis to make himself look good.
- Obama take the gloves off on this guy, Trust me in this case it's okay to beat up on an old guy.

I agree with Obama.. like McSame said economy is strong, he is scary!!!!!!! lollllll

Obama 08

Good for Obama!!! Perfect response!!!

"I think that it is going to be part of the president's job to deal with more than one thing at once."

Oh Snap!

OBOTS are all sounding the same. What a complete crock! You know, Arizona hired Senator McCain to do a job...and oh guess what he is doing it. Hmm, who is going to play this to a political advantage. Nobama's record speaks for itself. Please keep "the change".

Debate!

Also, what a scumbag...first they reach out to McCain to say let's put out a joint statement together. So McCain camp agrees. Then he comes out trashing John McCain.

What a scumbag this Obama is. Seriously...why would you do that? Shows his true character that he will use people and manipulate to get what he wants.

If I was McCain I would NOT put out a joint statement now.

Ridiculous....

This is ridiculous... Obama cannot put aside the handshaking and backbiting for a few days to get this country back on track? If he is not willing to do that now, then when? McCain was willing to suspend *his entire campaign* to help out the country... I was undecided, but I will definitely vote for McCain after this. Obama has lost my respect.

To: Scott L,

Beg to differ.

If there was a terrorist attach, Obama would be the first one running to Canada – even Michelle and the kids wouldn't be able to keep up.

The old dude is in hot water!...

Go get'em!! Obama 08!

Just like Jobama to put himself ahead of Americans and Country..

Just sad...

That's right. We the American people need to hear from both of these candidates so that we can make an informed decision before election.

It will surely help me finally decide who is best for this country.

I look forward to it.

Country first....let's work towards some plans to solve the economic problems then we can see who will do the least damage - during the debates. Afterall, $700 billion is at stake here.

exactly...

as if the candidates weren't going to head back to Washington for the bail out vote. Why suspend anything?

I personally want to hear these two men debate the issues, problems of our day, and their party's policies/philosophy...

I also think, a person who can't manage his affairs and commitments, while devoting focus to important "surprise" events, really isn't the sort of person who should be running for the most difficult job in the land.

there may come a time when McCain won't have a national crisis, that's the result of GOP bungling, to use as an excuse... to come clean about his stance on issues, and give people facts, on his plans for the country

Get better advisers McCain. This is going to backfire just liek the rest of your petty little games have. Time to fess up, cut the sh-t and act like an adult. You're 72 years old for crying out loud. Act your age.

Go ahead!

Why put something so important on hold to deal with the "crisis"? Your job will be to handle many many things at the same time. So if your age does not allow you to do so, step aside.

Oh, by the way it could be a way to show american people how serious he is about ISSUES for once!!

This is a big joke.

Besides, who knows how many days this will take?

Great, The debates should go forward. Mc Cain just can't handle more than one problem at a time. Something that is obvious everytime I see/hear him. Obama shows real leadership, McSame shows frustration, confused, makes too many mistakes, flip-flops on every issue, you can never tell what he is supporting from day to day he changes. No McCain, No Palin, no way, no how.

YES YES YES YES YES YES YES YES YES YES YES!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

TRUE LEADERSHIP!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

OBAMA/BIDEN '08!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Thank You Mr. President. There is no reason that they can't do both at the same time. Go to Washington, then leave for a couple of hours and do the debate. Barack is able to do this with no problem an he is correct, I want my President to be able to do more than one thing at a time.

Obama/Biden '08

Oh just debate already. As if not debating is going to change the financial mess both Republicans and Democrats put on the backs of it's citizens.

He is right. If McCain was so concerned he should have dropped the dog and pony show he has been on with Palin at the UN holding meaningless meetings to go back to Washington. Crisis is not so important that he would miss a few photo-ops with world leaders or so important to cancel his appearance with Clinton tomorrow but, so important to put off one of the most important events of the election.

yes let them debate
mcsain is running scared or maybe he is afraid palin will be with some one besides him
where is she going to come in on this with john? i sure he has a place

M from Manhattan, you are 100% correct. Thank you for putting this thing in perspective.

Obama supporters get ready because McCain is going to use this against Sen. Obama but the public is not fooled.

Great move....we the people want to hear the debate.

Obama 08

Let the debate go on!!! McCain needs to be able to focus on more than ONE thing at a time!!! He can't run and hide. Is this what we can expect from his as President???

The debates will go on
MCcain/Bush will be exposed

Mc Cain and his staff knows very well that he stands no chance at debating Obama on the issues so he trying to by time so he can read up on what the economy is and how it works. Mc Bush finally gets it that the economy is not fundamentally strong and now before the biggest debate in the history of presidential elections he is trying to post pone. What a scary cat, he is again using poor judgment and is not fit to be our commander and chief.

Obama/Biden 08

He already sounds like President Obama, not afraid to use language as a tool that a president must understand how to use to his advantage. My Far Side calendar has had the day circled and titled "Presidential Debate Day".

Exactly! The President must be able to multi-task. GO OBAMA!!

Obama in '08!

McSame wants to "CUT and RUN"! LOL

GREAT!!!

Very impressive that Obama (so far) is standing his ground on this and not falling for McSame's publicity stunt of the day. Yet another cheap tactic from a derailed "Straight Talk Express."

This is yet another example of the type of change we DO need.

Just say NO to Bush 44.

Go Obama/Biden

u

GOBAMA! Don't give into the BS Express!

Obama: "I think that it is going to be part of the president's job to deal with more than one thing at once."

And if someone cannot multitask, then that person has no business being President of the United States.

Obama camp calls McCain camp at 830 am to form a joint statement on the bailout. At 230 pm, McCain calls back and agrees to work on the details. Less than 5 minutes later, the McCain camp realeases a 5 paragraph statement saying he's suspending his campaign and calling on everyone to come together.

NO WAY, you should only do one thing a day when you are president, OBAMA SUCKS!!!!

The idea from Mccain of delaying the debates is a trap and this is how I see it:

1. If Obama agrees to the idea of delaying the debates, the mccain campaign will pick on him for being a follower and for mccain being the real leader and maverick showing leadership duirng a time of crisis

2. If Obama declines to the idea, the republicans will accuse him of putting politics before country especially during a time of crisis.

3. The idea may have been raised in order for the mccain campaign to make mccain appear as if he is not prepared for the debate well enough and therefore lower expectations for him and pull good post-debate coverage should he even do modestly well.

The Obama campaign should not fall for this gimmic because the republicans are up to no good with this idea. So Obama should say no and let the mccain campaign spew all they want and let the debates go ahead.

Who still believed this President and his team? No body is in Jail yet for the economic mess they've created. Why don't check on AMERIQUEST, STATEWIDE and all the lenders that help in the Maffia style rob they did to the people?

Pander, pander, pander.
Mccain does not have an honorable, truthful bone in his
body.
He will do anything to try and win this election, even
sacrificing the American people as he showed in his
pick for vp.
The debate needs to go on. Hopefully it will show Mccain
for the phoney, unqualified person he is.,

Mccain sould also ask that the presidential election be postponed so that the candidates can work on the current crisis. If elections are to be held on November 4, then he should debate, and show the American people his plans and policies before election date.

Apparently 97 other Senators can't handle it themselves.

Let's debate. We need to add in a 3rd party candidate so we actually have a choice. The more the merrier. I want more choices, these 2 scare me.

Obama has plenty of time to debate. When you have no opinion and cannot commit, you are just pandering around in your own interest.

Maybe he could use some of this free time to form an actual opinion and real plan besides whining and critisizing.

Wow, saying they need to stop everything to take care of the crisis is like me saying I need to not feed my kids until I can find where I am going to get the rent payment. pffft.... McShame is right...

"Let's Rumble" Come on McCain, let's see you face the music...you wrote it!

Yes the debate should go on a president is surppose to be able to multitask and let the American people know were they stand

OBAMA: DA FOO

OK Obama, Its just as well to win by Default. McCain the former P.O.W. never met a good fight that He didn't away FROM !. No Mas, No Mas!

THIS IS FOR MCCAIN AND HIS CO-HORT. WE ARE REPUBLICANS BUT NEVER VOTED FOR THE IDIOT THAT IS IN THE WHITE HOUSE NOW AND WE DEFINATELY ARE NOT GOING TO VOTE FOR YOU NOW. YOU ARE A BLUNDERING IDIOT JIM HALL KANSAS CITY MISSOURI OBAMA BIDEN 2008.

Obama only cares about his campaign, McCain puts country first.

Obama hasn't a clue. He's such a FOOL and so out of touch with what needs to happen in Washington, and IN THE SENATE, that he's crazy and beyond ignorant NOT to place this COUNTRY FIRST!!! What a scuz of a human being.

Me Me Me...

Barack Obama....

Why not postponed until Tuesday? Sheesh...is he that anxious to start saying "ummm um ummmm umm ummm ummmmmmm uhhhh umm uuuhhh ummmm"

Have you ever heard MIchelle Obama speak without a prompter? It is 10 times worse than Obama. Ummmm uhhhh ummmm uhhh ummmm....watching it in 7.1 stereo is the worst it is like it is amplified in the rear channels....uhhhhhh uhhhhh uuhhhhu ummmmmmm ummmm

You don't hear McCain or Palin saying that...they are very polished. Obama's just do not have enough experience! Period!

The politicians have put themselves in a major pickle. Vote this 700 billion dollar bailout and the backlash come voting day will be unprecedented. Dont vote in this bailout and the economy same backlash.

I just dont understand how these institutions FAILED to manage thier portfolios. Maybe it is time for the economy to reset itself. Let the recession begin.

my small business has been suffering every since the dramatic rise in fuel prices. WHERE IS MY BAILOUT.

let the DEBATES GO ON.

Obama goes ahed by 9 pts in the poll then McLame ries to run and hide behind the skirs tails of the very same people (De-regulate) that created this mess.

If you can't handle more than a single issue at a time as President it's time to get out of the race!

"It's my belief that this is exactly the time when the American people need to hear from the person who in approximately 40 days will be responsible for dealing with this mess," Obama said.

YES YES and YES!!! You nailed it Just right.

It is exactly the time American People want to hear what their aspiring Presidents have to say on the current issue.

Hope McSHAME comes forward to show how in-experienced he is and will be.

You know that none of this would of mattered if Obama agreed to having the 10 town hall meetings McCain originally asked for back in May. This one could of been postponed. Instead Obama finally wants to debate when the country really needs a solid financial plan put together.

Obama is a loser. Go hide back in Illinois and vote "present" some more you idiot.

"I think that it is going to be part of the president's job to deal with more than one thing at once."

Well said! Multi-tasking is what we do in this 21st century!

STICK IT IN YOUR DEPENDS McCAIN!!!!!

This is a crisis that took years to create. This debate will take place over a few hours. Today is Wednesday the debate is Thursday. There is a whole committee of people dedicated to hammering out the details of this bill. Neither McCain nor Obama are needed for that process, all they need to do is vote. This is politcal grandstanding and McCain is starting to get on my nerves. I haven't heard his econmic plan or his healthcare plan or any plan for any domestic issue. All of this brings up one question for McCain and the McCain campaign (don't get the two confused) and that question is...
ARE YOU SERIOUS? Because I don't think you're serious about the problems facing this country. The only thing you want to do is win. That makes you a loser in this situation

Perfect Barack, that's exactly how you should play this oh too familiar diversion set by the GOP.

Good job!

Obama 08

"It's my belief that this is exactly the time when the American people need to hear from the person who in approximately 40 days will be responsible for dealing with this mess," Obama said.

You better believe it! I was wondering what he could say to tactfully deal with this political stunt and I'm impressed. Unfortunately, this specific debate is intended to be a discussion of foreign policy. I wonder if they would simply change the subject matter to reflect the current crisis or discuss foreign affairs.

Good comment. I did not like you during the primaries, but I think you just convinced me. The country needs to hear from both of you guys now. I used to respect McCain, but not anymore.

Awesome! Perfect response by Barack Obama to John McCain's nonsense! Responsible leaders fulfill their commitments!

If anything calls for a debate from our Presidential candidates, it's this economic crisis! America deserves to hear what these men have to say, and McCain is trying any tactic in the book to avoid talking!

Obama/Biden '08!!!

ABSOLUTELY CORRECT!!

It should McCain is tucking tail

IT JUST GOES TO SHOW YOU WERE OBAMA HEAD IS,I SHOW ME THAT HES NOT CONCERN ABOUT CRISIS GOING ON. THAT HES MORE CONCERN ABOUT HIM SELF AND HE WANTS TO BE PRESIDENT

Talk about wag the dog…McCain knows he's going to have his butt whipped because he's one of the worst public speakers out there, and he's got a temper that gets him in trouble. Of COURSE he wants to avoid debates. But I think Obama can do both – campaign AND take care of the economy. He need only be present to vote. McCain's old fashioned and can't conceive of anyone being able to communicate their ideas, thoughts, impressions without being present. Heck, ever heard of a phone, let alone email? And you're supposed to have invented the blackberry and all.

Go Obama. Keep campaigning, and let McCain have his pointless grandstand. It's not going to swing anyone's vote.

Barack Obama...A True Leader !!!!!

There are things called airplanes that can carry the candidates to the debates and return to when they are done to where they are at the time. The candidates should by this point know what they would do regarding various issues. GIve me a break... can McCain tie his shoes and chew gum at the same time? LET THE DEBATES BE HELD!!!

Obama is 100% correct. McCain is pandering again. Another political ploy. He is not ready to lead, he has shown poor judgement time and time again, and the only thing he has done consistently is lie to the American public. NO McCain, NO WAY! This is absurd. Go Obama.

Obama I am so happy that you really mean what you say because American people are struggling then ever we need to really hear the both side to see how we going to fix this mess

There's no need to postpone this debate. Learn how to multi-task. The debate is only 2-3 hours on a Friday night. Gimme a break.

THAT IS FOR SURE!

Absolutely the debate should go on! We can't postpone the election until McCain figures out how he can talk from both sides of his mouth - let's see if he can do it in person!

Four Words ... IT'S TIME TO RUMBLE!!!

No offense Senator Obama, but I prefer a leader that actually will show up and help in a crisis vs. deciding to stay out of it. That would be like a company owner ignoring a riot on the plant floor and using the intercom to call the supervisor to see if everything is ok. Sorry, sometimes you just have to be a leader of your party, and the people.

However, you have decided to keep campaigning....guess we'll have 4 more years of the same if you are elected.

MCCAIN IS RUNNING FOR THE HILLS.

DON'T FORGET YOUR PALIN PUPPET. IF YOU LEAVE HER ALONE TOO LONG, SHE MAY JUST WISE UP AND SPEAK TO PEOPLE ON HER OWN

WAAAAAAAAAAA! WAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA! I've spent all this time trying to memorize my lines and you aren't gonna let me spew them. WAAAAAAAAAAAA!

Absolutely the appropriate response!

Obama's right, a president should be able to multi-task, whether it means holding a debate for our future leaders and saving the country at the same time. This is all a political ploy by McSame. Too bad it didn't work.

Obama 08

YES YES YES!

He didn’t care enough to vote for the PREVENTION of this crisis.
JUST LIKE BUSH, MCCAIN waits until after the towers have fallen to take action.
Maybe he should have voted and supported Sen. Obama’s indicative to prevent this!!!!!
DE-BATE!!!!,
DE-BATE!!!!,
DE-BATE!!!!,
DE-BATE!!!!,
DE-BATE!!!!,
DE-BATE!!!!,

Obama is correct to debate as scheduled. The demands of the Presidency are multiple and unpredictable. The man in charge has to be flexible and able to multitask. The world doesn't stop because McCain needs a breather to deal with problems other than the ones he's planned for.

When did John McCain decide to be a born again citizen?

Healthcare, Energy, National Debt, Corruption ... etc are all crisis. They have been for 7 1/2 years.

What does he care. All he wants is to become the President. Destiny

Absolutely the debate must go on! McCain wants to hide until the ecomonic smoke clears, then get back to smearing and lying about Obama every chance he gets. I'm sick of John McCain and of Palin....they are both dishonest, and profess to be such great christians. They are wolves in sheeps clothing!

Oh for crying out loud. Congress doesn't even want McCain there to interfer right now and make this economic mess a political stunt.
He just does not think.

Good for you! A perfect opportunity for the two candidates to show what they are made of!

Dog-gone RIGHT the debate should go on!!

McCain is running scared! He's trying to call a 'time-out' in the middle of the campaign.....trying to slow Obama's momentum.

Don't fall for it, Barack!!!!!

As it should. We need a clear calm leadership. Thanks Obama. Mccain, please go retire and take the liar with you.

Obama is a joke. It's always Obama first.

"It's my belief that this is exactly the time when the American people need to hear from the person who in approximately 40 days will be responsible for dealing with this mess," Obama said.

This is the FOREIGN POLICY DEBATE YOU DOOFUS- they're not going to be talking about this economic issue.

Couldn't have said it better myself! GO OBAMA!

Money quote: "I think that it is going to be part of the president's job to deal with more than one thing at once." Enough said!

More of the same from John McShame

John McLame says, “I don’t know much about the economy, I still need to be educated”

“It would be acceptable if we had to stay in Iraq for another 100 years.”

We need to “bomb, bomb, and bomb Iran”

“I have voted with Bush 90% of the time because he has been right 90% of the time”

Sarah Failin says,

“I have foreign policy experience because you can see Russia from Alaska and I went to Mexico on vacation once.”

“I welcome any investigation into my past because I have nothing to hide, oh never mind I will not meet with any investigators for any reason ever.”

She believes the Bush Doctrine is a “World View” hahaha

She says she said “No Thanks” for the Bridge to nowhere when she was actually the one who got it approved

She says we may have to go to war WITH RUSSIA

She decreased her own responsibilities when she was the mayor of a town small enough to be run by a fifth grader

Rock on!

Talk to the American people, don't hide from them!

Blah, Blah, Blah...I see his lips moving but hear nothing but lies coming from Obama's mouth. Of course he wants the debate to go on...he could care less about the economy...all he wants is to win an election by filling our heads with whatever we want to hear. Not that having him in Washington discussing the economy would do much good anyway since he only votes PRESENT.

Obama spends more time writing his third book on himself then he does in helping this country and his record as a senator proves it. Obama....great at making up stories but not so good in dealing with America.

My exact sentiment. Thank you Mr. President.

Obama/Biden '08

As usual, Mr. Obama abstain from voting on the issue.

we want the debate!!!!! mccain whined about debates for months, now 2 days before, he wants to cancel? he is not ready to handle the presidency, if he cant do more than interrupt negotiations on capitol hill.

Too true! well said.

Well Said.

A President has to multitask.

We need to hear from both candidates on the economy.

Don't rush taxpayers into a $700 billion decision.

If McCain believed that this was urgent, why didn't he go to Washington at the start of this economic mess? Why does his decision coincide with a slide in the polls? Should not Presidents be able to multitask?

I AGREE! FULL STEAM A HEAD!

YES WE CAN!

Requiring the President to multi-task? Sir, you ask too much.

Deeds not words Obama you joke. But by all means don't start doing your job as a senator now. Read your prepared sound bites and leave the real work the the elected officials.

Brief, concise and precise. Good. Straight simple answer that says it all.

Nice try McCain

This country will be lost if John Mccain becomes president. Imagine he cannot deal with multiple issues at the same time, with all his 26 years experience in Washington. This just proves that John Mccain is not fit to be commander in-chief.

Yes. We want to hear the debate.

Exactly !

I expect a President to multi-task and not to hide in a crowd of senators!

They have planes and can be anywhere in no time! It's a two-hour debate! So what ? McCain will have to go to bed a little later on Friday ...

Why did Obama duck McCain all summer. He couldn't take 3 days to prepare for each town meeting? Now Mr. Scaredycat is playing Mr. Macho Man. I'm not impressed.

Hey Barack, you're one of only 100 paid US Senators. Earn what we pay you and do your job.

Right On!

Obama 08

Exactly. Can't multi-task... probably can't keep us safe.

Because a debate is so much more important than coming together in a bipartison manner and actually trying to solve the nations financial problems. Wow. Obama really is just hoping to milk this crisis for all it's worth, he doesn't want to fix it, it's working for him. PATHETIC

And that president will be BARACK OBAMA!!!!!!!!!

Sen. Obama sounds like a man who is ready to lead on Day One to me.

Hey Sen. McCain! It's 3:00 am and the phone is ringing.......

ARE YOU GOING TO ANSWER IT?

Johnny "Dog-Ate-My-Homework" McCain cannot multitask, sad.

"These events occur too fast for me, aww!"

Oh thank goodness at least one of these candidates realizes he has to work under pressure and that he won't always have a staff to "explain what the candidate really meant". Personally, I'd like it now if it was just a two hour interview with Obama and the moderator!

With modern technology being what it is, I cannot see a clear reason to suspend a campaign or to suspend a debate. I see this as a stall tactic by the McCain camp. A tactic that will allow them to play catch up in a race where loss is iminent.

This is the guy who hid all summer from the many requests McCain made for them to debate. What an EGO on this man.

He already inclined to debate, what's up cnn?

Bush campaigned and debated while he was President. There have been presidential campaigns during the Civil War, the Cold War, the depression.

Senator McCain has the worst voting record in the Senate this year and has failed to show up for crucial votes. For him to now claim he "must" be there is the worst sort of political pandering.

hehehe, McSame cannot multi-task, maybe he should use the blackberry he helped invent

Of course it should. This is a ploy by McCain because he is reeling on the economic issue and trying to act presidential in the absence of any sense of what, practically, to do. Obama is 100% right that we need to see the candidates debate NOW on what they intend to do to get us out of this Republican-administration-driven mess. The best place for Presidential politics right now is NOT in the middle of a Congressional bipartisan debate. End of story.

You go, Obama!! McCain is AFRAID to debate Obama. What a shallow gimmick.

Obama/Biden 08!!

what is the most important? daytime job or ????

YES IT SHOULD.............AND ALSO PALIN DEBATE AGAINST BIDEN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Good for you, Obama. Don't let McCain stall and delay just because he is slipping in the polls.

I also read you were the first to call him this morning and ask that you guys work together for a joint resolution on this crisis and that he then turned around and went on TV and said he wanted to suspend the campaign? How underhanded and dishonorable.

Good move.

Let the people responsible for coming up with the plan work on that and present it to you guys when it's ready. In the meantime, the debate will go on.

Watch for McCain to screech about patriotism. Its a wonder that anyone believes that guy anymore.

I LOVE this guy!

He obviously does not understand the grave situation we are in. If it was a terrorist attack he would change his tune. He doesn't realize this is far worse than a terrorist attack.

If a terrorist hit us this week, we would crumble...good time to buy though...before they freeze the markets first of course.

You said it Senator Obama. Make McCain show his hand and fail to show up!!!!

Yes, they need to debate, I agree. But they should debate on economy, not foreign affairs. Americans want to hear the debate on economy right now. Can they change the topic?

OBAMA – FIRST
COUNTRY – SECOND

Just one more reason I'm voting Obama/Biden. Obama can multitask.

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Obama, went on to say, "besides, I'm just going to vote "present" anyways."

YOU CAN'T VOTE PRESENT AS PRESIDENT.

YOU NEED TO WORK MR. OBAMA.

GO BACK TO COMMUNITY ORGANIZING.

Barack is the change we need and he has put America first – true leadership!

EXACTLY THE TIME!!... couldnt have said it any better

Once again, Obama puts the election ahead of the American people.

When are you idiots going to wise up??

I love this response....

Self over country. Obama doesn't want to vote on the bill because he doesn't understand what's at stake.

YOU CAN'T

Yes!!

NICE! Seriously, McCain can't go around willy nilly doing whatever the hell he feels like doing and expecting everyone else to follow along.

Last week John McCain said, “The fundamentals of America’s economy are strong.”

Today, John McCain has dropped 9 points behind Barack Obama in the polls!

AND, today, John McCain wants to “suspend his campaign and postpone Friday’s Presidential debate” because “our economy is in crisis.”

OPEN YOU EYES, AMERICA. This is one of the nastiest and most cynical political stunts ever attempted in American Presidential politics.

Call it what it is! It is not noble; it is not honorable! It is despicable!

McCain is once again grasping at an American crisis and playing it for whatever he can gain politically.
He chose Palin for that reason, and he halted the Republican Convention, not because of the suffering, but because he needed an excuse to not have Bush and Cheney appear!

McCain’s slogan is NOT “country first” but “winning first!”

An American with Eyes Wide-Open this time!