CNN

I'm fairly certain Sen. Obama can handle both the bailout and a debate. Why can't Sen. McCain? Certainly the presidency won't be any less hectic...

We want the debate too! McCain telling us that he can't fly to Washington then fly out to a debate against Obama? I'm sure he would have time if it were for a lobbyist.

ABC's poll question on Honestly/Trust: Obama 48%; McCain 35%...

Debate!!!! McCain is just trying to stop Obama's momentum. Let McCain be the one who declines.

As Moltz said on twitter:

Yeah, sure, we can postpone the debate. Hey, John, let's just postpone the election if now's not a good time. When's good for you?

Is John McCain scared of debating Barack Obama. I thought he said the economy was fundamentally fine.

thank you !!! The debate should be on and i an inclined to agree with him
This is just a political move by McCain.. Granted a good move..

Go Obama

Please, please, please debate! Don't fall for the McCain trap! He is just trying to take the heat off of himself.

If Obama does this thing the moment the heat is off he will bash as him as naive and inexperienced. He may do it anyway, but better froma position of strength than from following that jerk to DC.

go get him O!

don't let the old weasel wiggle out of it with his Country First crap. God, how transparent!

old mcnasty is about the last person I want in washington dealing with economic crises.

Maverick? When it comes to Senator McCain just drop the "m-a-v-e" and put a "t" in front of the "rick" ! MCCAIN is full of tricks and that is why all of his tricks backfire! Isn't it just too ironic that Senator Obama spoke to him about 2:30pm and shortly after 3:00pm, McCain is giving a statement like it was his idea to "come" together and give a joint statement? Senator McCain is only interested in one agenda and that agenda is not the American people, that agenda is himself! Yes, I acknowledge that he was a POW, but what else can I can for him that would make one think that he is "presidential"?

DEBATE, This is the race to be the next president we need to know who will be in charge of the economy for the next 4 years!

I'm "inclined" to think this makes Obama look like he is more interested in furthering his own campaign instead actually working to help solve a very real, very pressing problem. I don't have a lot of faith in someone who puts themselves first over the other 300 million of us.

Since the campaign is going against him, John McCain's latest proposal is an effort to stop the bleeding - in his campaign, not the economy. Wraping himself up in the American flag to try to accomplish his political agenda is what we are coming to expect from the former rider of the Straight Talk Express.

McCain's gimmick is just that – a gimmick

Obama looks really weak today. In his own words "If you need me, call me."

Sir, No Thanks!

Why didn't McCain call this "timeout" Monday? Why is it that this requires his attention when he has the 2nd worse absentee voting record in Congress? Don't fall for it Obama, McCain is not ready for this debate and knows it's going to sink him more in the polls.

McCain is a coward.
If he can't multi task this week how does he expect to be president.
Why can't he show up for the debate, answer questions liek a true statesman, and also run his senate office?
Obama can do that.
Make you wonder how dumb he thinks we all are.

I have a great idea! A compromise. Let the debate take place in Washington DC. The two candidates can work together right up til the time for the debate, do the debate and then go back to work.

DEBATE DEBATE DEBATE!

McChicken is a wimp.. the bail out plan can be voted on and discussed in one short day.. tomorrow.. then he can debate on Friday! hahaha..

OBAMA/BIDEN `08!

Wow ... look at that. Mr. Obama is having a press conference. When is McCain going to that? And when is it the right idea to NOT talk with the American people during a crisis ... the debate should go on.

Keep it debate on next President Obama...and be sure to point out yet again the similarities of McCain and Bush...each can only "handle" (poorly I add) one issue at a time...

Bush = So called "war on terrorism" in Iraq

McCain = Fixing his choice deregulated financial mess

Obama again demonstrates he can handle (well) multiple RepubliCON created crisis.

Obama/ Biden '08

I agree with you Sen. Obama don't disappoint the people, Sen. McCain playing games again, ENOUGH IS ENOUGH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

McCain is the lowest form of politician! What a weanie move by the McCain campaign!!!

Barack Obama is the only SANE choice!!!!

I'm "inclined" to think this makes Obama look like he is more interested in furthering his own campaign instead actually working to help solve a very real, very pressing problem. I don't have a lot of faith in someone how puts themselves first over the other 300 million of us.

By looking at all the times Obama voted over the past one and half years he should be allowed one more time to case his none vote he only hold about 400 of those out of 600 times to vote so why not waste some more tax payers money. On the other hand again McCain goes out of his way to make sure evry one can hold on to there houses ,life savings , jobs. (Unless there Democrate they dont work) and money

Press on Obama!!! McCain is just not prepared!!

Good... its not like the financial crisis snuck up on anyone oh wait

Mccain: "the fundamentals of our economy our strong"

I guess it must have come as a shock to him

Let the debates continue!!!

Our next president will not only have to manage this mess (this is not a short term crisis) but will have to manage the rest of the catasrophe's left behind by this administration. We have endured months of PETTY POLITICS. Now I want to hear about the issues.

If a candidate cannot participate in the debate and keep up with this economic meltdown then he needs excuse himself from the race for president.

McCain see the Obama momentum train building steam and is using this as a way to slow it down and try to change the conversation. We need a president come January and people need to know the difference between the two of them. Let the debates roll on!

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.

either way, the republicans are up to no good. So Obama should say no and let the mccain campaign spew all they want and let the debates go ahead.

And if McCain doesn't show up, no one will know the difference.

Yes! Let's debate!

Don't fall for it Barack, go through with the debate. A true president can weather any crisis and keep up with their scheduled commitments. No excuses. Did JFK tell Castro and the Russians to delay the Cuban Missile crises or to take a few days off in the governing of his nation? No, life goes on, you solve the country's problems and you stay the course.

Debate as planned. Don't fall for the trap Barrack.

Hurry he's" inclined", hurry before he forgets what his 300 advisors told him what to say, McCains is displaying leadership and good judgement he is putting the financial crisis above his campaign , he is putting the needs of the people before himself. Obama's still thinking..... McCains decision is another example of words to action.

Maritza

Send Palin as a proxy then!

Debate! Debate! Debate! Now is exactly the right time. McCain seems weak and old to want to put it off. If momentum was on his side it 'might' look different. But it's not and he doesn't.

We all know John doesn't want to debate!! How convenient.

We still need to have a campaign, we still need to have the debates. We are constitutionally required to have an election.

It seems the electoral model of 'primary, debate, vote' is being tossed aside in favor of 'election by soundbite'.

I can't see why they can't just move the debate to Washington, D.C., in some basement alcove if time is of such essence.

If Congress can vote, and take junkets at the same time, they can handle a real crisis and debate our future at the same time. It's called "multi-tasking".

I'm very proud of Barack Obama for not giving in to this political gimmick by the McCain camp! A President should be able to multi-task and handle more than one issue at a time.

Bring on the debate!

The American public has a right to see and hear this debate to learn everything possible before choosing who will lead this nation.

And it is time that McCain's campaign stop shielding Palin from the press. The press doesn't have to show "deference". No questions, NO CAMERAS!

I am quite sure that my candidate can multi-task, dealing with current issues while attending a debate. He's ready. He has the right judgment and anyone who follows the news can see that.

Is John McCain not ready to debate? Did the dog eat his cliff notes? Can he not focus on more than one thing at a time?

If he's not ready to debate Friday, why should we think he's ready to lead come next January?

Obama/Biden!

I find it hard to believe that John McCain could be so disillusioned to think he could win this presidential election. Obama wins 333 Electoral College votes.

McCain getting cold feet already!!!! Needs to postpone the debate.

McCain is desperately trying to push back the debates to give himself more time to prepare for 'fixing the economy'.

There are enough very talented people working on the problem so John, your planned debate for President does not need to be postponed.

If he's not ready to debate then he's not ready to be President. Deadlines happen. Events happen. You can't just push things back because you're not ready. The President MUST be able to handle more than ONE thing at a time. This debate should not be postponed for his personal reasons.

This is another attempt by the Republicans to run an endgame around the election process. They change the rules whenever it gets tough for them. They are running scared! Palin is an insult to intelligent women. Let's get on with the debates and discuss the real issues. Or is it just Republicans who don't want to talk real issues.

HOW BOUT THAT, A PRESIDENT SHOULD BE ABLE TO DO MORE THAN ONE THING AT A TIME!

Of course he wants to continue with debates. The country can't be saved until the Savior gets into office. He needs to take care of #1 first before he can attend to the needs of the country. Yep, and CNN won't post this, as usual.

The McSame campaign is imploding! Obama/Biden all the way!

Yep – McCain knows he's going to get shredded in any debate with Obama, and this offered a perfect way out.

What a lame answer.

You are not a leader Obama. you make me sick.

Hmmm?

Why don't they just change this debate to Economic issues rather than national security?

That way everybody wins, and everyone can see how lost McCain is when it comes to these issues. He's just trying to pull a Bush, by claiming disaster rather than facing a difficult discussion.

McCain even takes opportunity from this financial crisis HE helped create to conjur a political ploy. Do not delay!

exactly. dont fall for it Obama. Congress certainly doesnt need Mccain "keating 5" helping out with the bailout. You'll be doing the country a favor by keeping Mccain away during this time.

Go Obama!

Looks like McCain is McStalling for time...

I think Obama is doing the right thing by making a statement to the press and the people . after all the Republicans made the mess, why should he have to fix there mess . When he wins the election then he can become "The Cleaner"....... Or is McCain afraid that his name is going to come up with the Feds? Ohmmmm.. We shall see.....

First he hides Palin from the public, now he hides himself. What strange decisions McCain makes! Palin, no doubt, will invent some reason not to debate as well.

McCain is scared of looking like an utter fool in the debate, and with good reason.

The huge problems we face is even more of a reason to have the debates.

The debate should go on. What is McCain going to single handily do to solve this economic crisis? Personally I believe it makes McCain look unprepared.

Well, you know. McCain is right. Both were hired to do their jobs in the Senate. The financial crisis in America comes before the campaign. If Obama opts for the debate instead of doing his job. That tells me that he would not be a good leader.

good choice barry.... you first, country second...

I think that this is as much of a political ploy as anything that John McCain has done thus far. The delay is uncalled for as this 'crisis' is no more worse than it has been or will be for some time now. If anything the debate should and must go on!

Congress is already addressing the situtation.

Obama reached out to McCain to suggest a joint non-polical statement.

Rather than to do that McCain decided to grandstand.

Not a smart move...

Don't let the old man off the hook that easy.

It is obvious that Mccain is shaking in his boots. His nervous attitutude and again, the scare tactics do nothing to boost my confidence in his ability to lead. The distinction between McCain and Obama's approach is striking. Mccain is showing fear, Obama is showing a take charge leadership. The American people deserve the debates as scheduled. Life happens and we cannot manipulate the situation to serve ourselves. Leadership is the ability to carry on regardless of the situation.

Obama and McCain must debate on Friday...period.

Obama and Biden need to push back and say Yes! We! Can! debate and deal with the crisis the Republican Party put us in as well.

America wants the debate!

OBAMA/BIDEN '08

Some one should tell Obama that the debate will not have any available teleprompters and then maybe he'll decide that the debates should take backseat to America and its economy. That's the problem with Obama...it's all about him. What's best for him. He'll do whatever it takes to win this election oh and to sell his up and coming third book about himself. This man is full of stories...too bad they're mostly made up.

Debate, Obama McCain just isn't ready!!!!!

Obama 08

SMILE PRESIDENT OF IRAN YOU MIGHT ENJOY YOUR DAY !

Why not debate on Friday, go to work on Saturday? Or Monday.
C'mon fighter pilot tough guy McCain...this is no time for a photo-op!

Again McCain is being disrespecful to a Black man by telling him to go cut the lawn. If you need a drink of water, go roung back, I've got a water hose hooked up fer yer. The Blacks can pick out a suspected Bigot a mile away. All these people are of Full Gospel vein. Embedded in doing everything God has told them to do.In the Bible, god says in the last days there will only be Black people left on Earth. That should tell you who you should vote for this Election. Don't end up with those bigots.

Why should they postpone the debate? While George Bush may have caused more problems than solutions during his presidency, I doubt he is working on the economy alone.

It's called Multi-tasking McCain. If you can't handle more than one disaster at once you need to look for an easier job than the Presidency of the USA.

I would be inclined to debate too. Early voting is already open. Let people make a choice!

I thought the President had to be able to handle many things at a time. McCain can't handle a bailout discussion that has been going on all week AND do a one hour debate??? Doesn't sound like he has the stamina to be President to me! We all know this is a ploy. McCain isn't ready for the debate so the Republicans are desperate for any excuse to pull him out. Palin has done nothing but hide and now McCain is hiding from a real debate with Obama. McCain and Palin are both liars and hypocrites. They have no honor and cannot be trusted. Here is just another example. Cut and run when you don't know what to do – what great leadership skills – must have learned them from your best buddy Bush.

Is this not the very moment we NEED a debate in this country? The debate would provide a chance for the 2 opposing parties to lay out their solutions to the current economic crisis we face. That McCain wishes to delay the debate is a clear sign he is stumbling. Voters will see through this. If McCain can't debate the issues now, then when can he? We shall not be fooled.

Thanks MCCain....PPRECIATE YOU SIR

OBAMA/BIDEN 08!!!!!!!

call him out call him out obama dont let this guy run away he knows his part of the problem keep hammering him on economy. its a done deal Obama owns the white house mccain is done people. obama is the person we need now and GOP is no good for this country from rich to poor. Everyone is loosing their money and businesses. Obama/Biden 08!!!!!!!!!!

I want a President that is capable of handling more then one issue at at time. If John McCain is telling me that he can only focus on the economy debates in Washington, and can't focus on the debates with Obama. Well then he is not fit for the job.

MCsame is scared, MCbush is scared, and MCcain is scared.

McCain is afraid to debate and doesn't like the fact that he is losing in polls. This is just politcal grandstanding. McCain has been touting his deregulating views and policies for how long now? And all of a sudden he wants regulation and wants to suspend his campaign? What a joke. Do the debate McCain.

Its very clear now from Obama's press conferance that he is BIG TIME playing politics with this economic crisis while claiming that he is not. You can flower up his comments, but he all he is doing is trying to make himself look better. Obama has had no clear response.

It's time for a president who can handle two crises at once!

If John McCain isn't up to the task, he should bow out!

McCain is trying to get out of debating Obama. Jack, I hope that you and the media are not going for it. All the senate needs is for McCain and Obama to vote when the times comes. McCain can't disappointment the American people like this. Jack, I planned a party on Friday night for this comedy show. It's going to be MAY THE BEST MEMORY WIN!

McCain wants debate delayed because he knows that he is falling behind in the polls and possibly needs more time to program his running mate , Paline " the gorgeous lady" which is the only thing that we have been allowed to hear from her meetings with foreign leaders. Another true sign that they know she lacks experience if they don't even want us to hear any of her interviews. She looks like his little obedient wind up doll that is programmed to say and do whatever he wishes.

Yes, we are in the middle of a crisis, but the direction of this country is a crisis as well – so they should go on as scheduled.

We have all known for sometime that this was a crisis. Obama and McCain can do their parts as Senators but this is no reason to halt a campaign or kill a debate.

It's Official! They said Obama's Topic was not discussed, they didn't say it was Mentioned, I sure they left a message on what they wanted to discuss! Just like Obama made the first call on 9/11 to McCain to do a joint meeting. Obama always leading!
I'm SURE McCain's group had NO IDEA Why Obama would be calling him in the middle of a National Crisis..Please….
I feel so much better now! Palin/McCain 2008 – 2012..
and I have a Bridge and Road in Alaska and a 700 Billion dollar bailout to sale you to

P.S. for those who listen to Rush talk about Obama taking money from Freddie and Fannie, it was regular workers, your every day joe/jane, McCain got more money from the Executives/Lobbyist, but you didn't hear Rush mention that!
Wake Up!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Extra study time isn't going to help, John.

I agree with Obama. The economy is obviously vitally important at this time, but is McCain single-handedly going to pull the nation up by its bootstraps and avert crisis?

He can add his vote and consider the consequences of the bailout, whilst also committing to debate Obama. The election is also vitally important – probably the most important election in memory, based on the quagmire that person faces – and a debate helps all voters to evaluate the candidates at this critical juncture.

Let it go on!

Boo-ya!!

Debates a go. This is the best time for the next President to talk about what he will do and show his ability to do several things at once.

Obama is not letting the little snake go that easily. good job!!!!!

Obama I hope you do the debate McCain is scared because he know the republican mess up the economy

What in the HELL? What kind of mess is this? No! No he should not postpone this debate. WHY? No McCain, what you should have postponed was your whole bid for presidency. But since you entered the ring come on in. The issues on Wall Street have been coming down to this for awhile now and you made no quams about doing anything about it then. Did you call back to Washington to see what your counterparts thought of this brilliant idea to take the attention off of your screw up? No McCain the debate will go on Friday, and if you feel so strong about postponing your Presidential bid after that and you still would like to go to Washington well, you can leave Saturday. Two more days will not affect this mess on Wall Street.

When you know you will lose the debate, deflect your true intentions with a nobel cause. This is the same old bull. I'm more patriotic than you.

There's no reason Obama should postpone the debate. What is this...college basketball??? Calling "time out" when the other team has momentum??? John McCain isn't going to fix the economy in the next 48 hours (nor will Obama, for that matter). This is nothing more than a tactical move by McCain to deflect some attention away from the election, and buy a little time.

He can multi-task. McCain can't. McCain's incompetence and lack of moral integrity is becoming more and more visible by the minute.

If McCain is so concerned about the economic crisis then why not change the debate to be about the economy rather than foreign policy? It is irresponsible to delay a debate when so much hinges on this election. Sen. McCain has professed himself to be illiterate when it comes to the economy and so his presence in D.C. would not be crucial and given that Sen. McCain keeps claiming that Barack Obama's economic policies would be a disaster then he should welcome a chance to keep Sen. Obama away from this.

GOOD! I'm glad Obama's not falling for the okey-doke here. McCain is just pulling a stunt because he knows Obama is having a surge in the polls, especially in swing-states and even some states that McCain thought he had a lock on. McCain has nothing to lose by this "delay of game" tactic, so he's trying to goad Obama into a trap. I'm glad Obama's not falling for it. We absolutely cannot have a politician as cynical and manipulative as John McCain in the White House. I used to like and admire the guy, but he's become a major disappointment. He's no maverick; he's as sleazy as they come.

why should the debate be postponed? who benefits? only McCain. definitely not us, the American public. he SHOULD be eager to speak directly to the people and Obama, but he knows that he and his party caused this economic crisis by suppressing regulation for the last 8 years. this is a dirty political trick – if Obama says no, McCain will say he puts "politics above country" blah blah etc. If Obama says yes, he looks bad for backing down and for not "taking action first", blah blah etc. Dont be fooled, EVERYTHING that either candidate does at this point IS PART OF THE CAMPAIGN, directly or indirectly. McCain is just trying to make Obama look bad AND avoid any actual debate at the same time, the two most important objectives of the republicants. they certainly dont want to have to answer any tough questions from Obama or the "libs" (aka THE BETTER EDUCATED HALF OF THE UNITED STATES) that supports him.

If he can not put aside his 'wanna be president' for now and get to work, then what makes you think he will care if he gets in the white house. He has spent his time campaigning and what has else has he done.

Bye Hillary, bye Pumas, Palin will win this election for McCain without your help. No more kissing up to screaming clinton supporters.

Palin 2012

The debate SHOULD go on. If either McCain or Obama are concerned of being away from Washington during this fiasco then just move the debate to DC. It's not hard to do.

I love Obama! "inclined to debate." Yes we can!!!!.

Good judgement, Obama.

Obama Biden 2008

The debate should go on.

By all means, both Senators can return to Washington and work on the bill, but the debate need not be postponed.

Hmm.. maybe McCain thought he could waltz his way through the debate spewing soundbites with no preparation, Obama should call him out on it!

The debate should proceed. These 2 men joining in is not going to expedite the situation. Don't let McCain off the hook. If he can't prepare for a debate, how can he be prepared to lead this country?

Please do not stop the debate. I have some popcorn to pop and I want to take out the Garbage that Mr. McCsane is going to bing with him. Do not stop the debate.

Yes we can...

This mess happened over 8 years and McSame should know about it. The debate should focus on the future and how we got there in the first place. It is the war and the failed economic policies since the turn of this century.
Change is coming... McCain needs to be brave and debate

Why?
So we can listen to him stutter for 2 hours without his teleprompter?

i.e..., Politics is much more important..

Presidential candidate Sen. John McCain demonstrated real leadership today in announcing the temporary suspension of his Presidential campaign to return to Washington D.C. to work toward a bipartisan solution to this nation's economic situation. It's the right thing to do. McCain is putting this country first and politics second.

The debate should be postponed.

John McCain looks like a President today. Barack Obama does not.

That's because Obama can only think of himself. And why did he call John McCain and want to make a joint statement? Can he not speak for himself? Sounds like he took Rudy Gulliani's advice and instead of trying to make up his mind, called McCain for some answers. Obama is a fraud!

If it's important enough to put US taxpayers on the hook for 700 Billion dollars or more, then get all of your butts to work !

The whole point of having these debates is to know the position of the candidates. We had economic downturns in the past but it never stopped having presidential debates on schedule. McCain is just trying to pull a political stunt.

McCain must not be prepared. Otherwise, why postpone something he could easily fit in to his schedule, even in so-called 'crisis'.

Curious, also, that now the economy is in such crisis that all things must be canceled immediately. It was much more than a week ago we were cruising along fundamentally strong, I thought.

Just because McCain has gotten here late it doesn't mean everyone else has and everyone else must drop everything they are doing immediately to respond to McCain.

What an egomaniac. And an ill-prepared one at that.

There is not a person alive who thinks that it is acceptable to stop paying your mortgage, the electric bill, or stop feeding your kids and getting them to school on time just because your mother is on life support in the hospital.

McCain, Obama, and all of Congress are going to be basing decisions on being counselled and getting the "cliff note" explanation of what's going on.

There is no need for the debate to be suspended.

This is the same as the time out after time out at the end of the game to stretch out the game and delay the inevitable in hopes of some type of comeback.

Debate on!

While I agree that the Senate has to work across all political lines to resolve our current crisis I see absolutely no reason that any debate should be postponed. Furthermore I do not believe this should be Senator McCain's call. Though his campaign will sure spin whatever the outcome to be used as part of his election campaign. Now THAT is politicizing the moment. It is disgusting.

Good. Someone needs to show McCain that a president has to be able to handle more than one thing at a time.

Obama not worried, he'll vote 'PRESENT' either way...

Of course Obama is inclined to debate, he's not about to do his job as U.S. Senator now is he! No, he'd rather go through with the debate, not do anything useful, constructive, or helpful, and just complain about the way things are and tell you who to blame. That's the kind of change we can expect from Obama. Thank you to Senator McCain for doing what is right, suspending his campaign, and going back to Washington to try and help fix this mess. This is the kind of leadership, dedication and great example we can expect from McCain and the kind of thing we will see from McCain as well. God bless you Senator McCain, and we will pray for all of our leaders in Washington. Thank you!

McCain 08!

They absolutely should debate. It's more important than ever for us to hear from them.

Way to go Barack, do not fall this Republican trick. You called McCain first and he stole your idea of bipartisanship. This is plain politics.

George Bush is the president, let him work on getting us out of this mess he has gotten us into.

Obama / Biden '08

McSame doesn't want to debate because he knows he is PART of the problem. His consistent work to DEREGULATE every industry and business these past 26 years is the cause. He can't face up to the consequences in a debate so he's found the perfect way to wiggle out of them.

Sad.

Now Obama must play the "bad guy" and ask for debates anyway...or fall into this trap.

I smell Rove again.

I say let the debate go forward, I think it is a political gimmick on McCains part, to try and stop the debates because he knows this is going to come up in the debate Friday and he is not ready to answer the questions, and his telepromter wont have them either he can never speak directly to the people he has to read from the telepromter so who knows what kind of answres he will give.. We have waited long enogh. Stop the games and let the debates begin.

Obama was elected to the Senate by the good people of Illinois. He should consider their needs above his needs. Is he afraid to be on hand for the vote because he cannot vote "present".

Thank you Obama, please go ahead with it! The American people NEED a good debate right now . . .don't let McCain run away while pretending to be a hero.

Obama/Biden '08

GOOD! McCain doesn't call all the shots! We want the debate and then go to D.C.!

Of course because he is prepared to LEAD.

Of course he wants to postpone it. If I were getting my teeth kicked in I would want to call time out also.

Somebody tell McCain that there is a plane that flies from Washington DC to Mississippi on Friday!

McCain knows the material, so he can pick back up later. Country first. Thank you John McCain. Obama doesn't want to waste his little "debate camp" cram session.

The Sheriff's going back to town and he's going to make sure this thing gets done right. This is the John McCain that earned the name Maverick.

Up until a few days ago I really wanted to vote for Obama but he is dropping the ball lately. I agree with McCain on this, debates should postponed a day or two. McCain is probably grandstanding though.

Obama should continue with the debate. Listen, when the Iraq war started no one stopped to to have congressional meetings to decide whether we needed to pull out or not ,when American Soldiers were losing their lives by the hundreds. Now that we have a financial crisis, and yes it is very serious, we have to come to a sudden halt. No, the President must be able to handle many different tasks, this is only a fraction of the challenges the next president of the USA will face. The debate is only 1 day.

We Americans and the world want the debate to take place! The topic must be changed to the economy. Uncertainty about who will be our next President is contributing to the economic malaise!

The debate will require only a few hours out of the candidates' schedules. They will have plenty of time to attend to Senate business and vote on any critical issues.

Letting the candidates debate and clarify their positions on economics will benefit us far more than postponing the debate.

It's time to debate. The American people are waiting and John McCain is hiding. This hide and seek game with the press has now gone far past ridiculous.

The debates should go on as planned this is a political ploy by McCain to upstage Obama and Bush to try to make himself look like his in command.There is no need for McCain to rush off to the hill.He is trying to make it look like he cares about the people this is him showing he does not care but that he is afraid of the polls,This is the same fly off the handle way he choose Palin.He is using scare tactics and this should be scrutinzed very carefully,this is not something that should be pushed through hurriedly,and we will sustain what will McCain do if they come to an agreement Friday or what if they don't before the vice presidential debate will he stay at the capital until this is resolved?Stop with lise again McCain.

McCain just made a desperate move. He is lost on how to solve this crisis... and obviously he can't multitask!

What's the matter? McCain can do only one thing at a time. How about he work on the economy and show up at the debate. I mean if he was President would he ask Iraq to wait while he "focus" on the economy.

If he wants to leave campaign trail, fine. Maybe Barack could too and just have Biden take on all of his campaign responsibilites? Will Sarah do the same? Hey I got a better idea, lets see if the V.Ps are really ready to be President. Lets have the VP. debate on Friday. I bet Biden is ready. Is Palin?

Yes, thank you senator, the debates must go on!

Prime example of why Obama should not be president and John McCain should. Obama wants to go as normal so he can use his prepared speeches and sound bites rather than actually do his job as a still active senator.

I guess if you have spent the past 3 years as a senator doing nothing why start doing your job now. Just mark him present as usual and have the real elected officials do the work.

This is Barack's example of how he leads or doesn't lead. Less than 40 days till the do nothing cult leader fades away.

How many other senators do we have to work on this issue. They have been discussing this for since last week, now he feels it's urgent to suspend his campaign 2 days before the debate. Once again he's avoiding a discussion about the issues. The public is being deceived again by the John McCain and Sarah Palin. I want to hear the candidates talk about the issues.

I guess I should be more clear about which "he" I mean. I was referring to John McCain as the person who is running for cover (although it should be obvious but you never know how some will twist your words).

The debate should go forward because the election is too close. Maybe, they could pitch in and pay to have it in Washington. Take 90mins off the floor and debate somewhere in DC. We don't want any excuses for botching the election. I see this as a stall tactic.

Good. With the mess we are in, I want to hear from the these two. A president has to be able to multitask. McCain cannot handle both.

Of course Obama wants to debate. Having formed no opinion on the bail-out or lack there of, what else does he have to do? Maybe he could spend a little energy on an actual stance on the matter – sounds kind of important.

Of course! Self before country. Obama's standard.

Don't let grandpa off the hook!

I thought he said the economy is strong?????

And rightly so..... I am fairly sure Congress will manage without them for heaven's sake. Meanwhile the election will happen on November 4, no matter what else is going on. The two candidates should go on with the show.

That's right Obama! Both can be done...still take your trips to Washington to help with this financial crisis, stop campaigning and advertising, but there must be a debate, we have just over a month to go before the election and only three debates. Undecided voters especially need to hear what the candidates have to say in order to make an informed decision!

one VIRGINIA voter for OBAMA!

McCain can see his demise and is trying to weasel out of the debates. For the sake of our country the debate should proceed as scheduled.

This Debate is vitally important to our Nation. This Debate puts 'Country First. McBush puts Grand Standing First. Lets Debate!!!

Why can't they do both? I Quess Sen. McCain Is Too Old To Do Both!
Sen. McCain Is Grand Standing on This Issue.
Relax Sen. McCain, Take A Deep Breath.

I Think There VPs Should Of Went, And Keep Watch.The Campaigning Should Continue.

What in the HELL? What kind of mess is this. No. No he should not postpone this debate. WHY? No, what you should have postponed was your whole bid for presidency. But since you entered the ring come on in. The issues on Wall Street have been coming down to this for awhile and you made no quams about doing anything about it then. Did you call back to Washington to see what your counterparts thought of this brilliant idea to take the attention off of your screw up. No McCain the debate will go on Friday, and if you feel after that that you still would like to go to Washington well, leave Saturday. Two more days will not affect this mess on Wall Street.

So, Barry O doesn't want to postpone the Friday debate. Shows me where his priority is...he had rather, by using the politics of personal destruction (sound familiar, all you Hillary fans?) to continue bashing John McCain with the same old rhetoric the last three Democrat campaigns have used to try to unseat the GOP. Come on BO; it's country first!

With a Treasury Department, a Federal Reserve, the President's staff, and hundreds of other Representatives and Senators hard at work, it seems silly to pretend that these two guys are so important they can't take two hours out of their busy schedules to help Americans make an informed decision about the direction of the free world for the next four years. Of course they can. Theatrics won't solve the problems of Washington. These two men aspire to a higher calling than any single crisis. Let the current President do his job, to the best of his abilities. For better or worse, we elected him to do that.
Which is the best evidence that we can't afford to make another uninformed decision about electing a President. Of course they should debate.

that a boy!

why postponed, its not like the crisis can be solved and fixed over night... i do believe a 2 hr debate wont harm anythign... besides, it's a friday night!

I have no doubt that both of them have been in constant contact with senate members every day, especially party leaders. This is 2008 after all and worldwide instant communication (certainly video conferencing for the campaigns) is available to even us Joe Schmoe's. So unless a vote is going to happen fast there is no need for physical presence other than for image. Also, if it was that important to be there in person both should have flown to DC on the weekend.

If McCain just announced he was not going to be at the debate then so be it. But the other part about suspending campaign ads and the like was fishy. That part is more of a stunt and maybe even to get Obama off the air.

If you postpon it can not be no later than sunday period.

The suggestion to postpone presidential debates is disheartening. Americans should expect that these candidates are capable of handling more than one critical issue at a time. There is debate prep along with keeping up with domestic issues, daily economic changes, reacting to world events, and campaigning. However, they have staffs, advisors, and colleagues they are hopefully using wisely. A show of leadership would be a demonstration of how they can balance all of the challenges of the office they seek.

So much for careing about the economy.....election more important then the country just like McCain keeps saying about him.

What will be funny is now the Obama backers will say McCain is weak and that is why he wants the debates delayed, but if Obama flips and say the delay is good then oh how the Obama backers will sing that tune.

PANIC! Cheap political stunt! Distraction! What the country needs is for the two candidates to get up there and debate the issues, not hide behind some committee. This is so ridiculous. Reckless, impulsive, and desperate. The last thing we need in the White House.

I watched the Senate and the Congress and nobody panicked yet. They negotiate.

HOW ABOUT WORK TOGETHER FOR THE SAME NATION!
UNITED WE STAND!

I think the debate should go on, it is ashame on the 11th hr when McCain see himself down in the polls now he wont to do something if working people can do two things at once so can McCain and Obama
the house do not need gardans, they can both go to Washington and back to the debate there is on reason to stop the the debate.

Keep the debate. Do it in public and let the two men discuss it moderated. What is the big deal.

Yes, let's go ahead with the debate, Senator Obama. Senator McCain is trying to avoid the very issues that are affecting this country right now. I want to hear both sides of the story and what each one is planning to do. THIS IS THE PERFECT TIME TO DEBATE and hear both candidates.

McCain should be ashamed of himself for suspending his campaign and trying to avoid the issues that americans want to hear only 5 weeks away from the election. Yes, this is an important week for the United States but choosing my next president is just as important. The Congress has done little without these two candidates as it is, I don't see a big difference if they were on the floor.

I believe Senator McCain is running away from this right now, his campaign knows he's not so good in the polls and that Obama is going to hit him hard on the debate due to the current economic crisis, that's why he's running. What a joke.

RIGHT ON OBAMA! Go on with the debate. Make it about the Economy if that pacifies people. Don't let McCain get away with this stupid stunt!

And also: NO BAILOUT rushed into law in a few days! It's just another power grab by the Criminal Bush administration.

Barack Obama should not suspend campaign at all. Maccain suspended his because he is now so far behind. John claims he does not want the bailout issue to be political and yet he has made it by the virtue of coming out to announce what he was going to do. He should have just taken his action quietly! If his intention was for good he did not have to make a BIG issue out of it! God says do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing.
We have very capable men and women taken to task so the country can not stop functioning, regardless of what they have done. Afrter all we still have a President so this is not like Zimbabwe, Zambia, Angola and now South Africa with no sitting leaders as we speak.!

I have a few words for the McCain Campaign..."Thanks but no thanks on your bridge to postponement".

Now more than ever the American people need to hear the presidential candidates speak about the economy-let the debates continue and let the American people decide who would provide the best solution to our financial crisis.

dont listen to old mcsame, go aheld with your show and knock him out.. dont fall into his plan

President Obama, the show must go on!! McCain does not control this. The "Maverick" is afraid. Do a one man debate!! Questions??

He should debate. McCain is running scared because he doesn't want to have to answer to the nation but he needs to.

DEAR FRIENDS:
SURELY THESE TWO CANDIDATES CAN MULTITASK!

Don't let him off the hook! More smoke mirrors and cheap parlor tricks.
This guy is very cunning, watch him like a cat in a seafood market

We don't need McCain to "roll up his sleeves" and do the same things he's done for 26 years in Washington, we need new administration and a real president! This gimmick is a poor excuse to postpone the debate!

it just shows his lack of concern about this crisis in america...win win win at no cost.....we will all be broke and wont be able to pay taxes for king obama anyway

What has become both typical and disgusting is how McCain is trying to use everything for public attention and political attention which demonstrates more interest in show than substance. Obama's camp had contacted McCain's camp early this morning and suggested that they work with the congress and the White House to address the financial crisis in a bipartisan manner. Later in the morning McCain's camp responding saying they were receptive to doing that. Ever since, McCain has been trying to make everything sound like his idea, his initiation and so on, all for public opinion. McCain is not only dishonest but also desperate!

So, McShameless and his cronies make this huge mess of the economy, and now he wants to put off the debate to solve it??? And I suppose if Obama disagrees we will see an add tomorrow that Obama doesn't care about the economy!!! Apparently McShameless needs more prep time, and now he has an excuse. Please don't fall for these disgusting tricks, America. McShameless has a much better magic act than David Blaine ever dreamed of. Suspend the campaign, but show up for the debate. You owe it to the voters. Hey, maybe they can get the entire election postponed if they try hard enough.

So Senator McDeregulator wants to postpone the debate....one has to ask why? Could it be that he needs to hide his campaign manager Davis who took thousands of dollars a month for several years from Freddie Mac to deflect stricter regulation? Could it be he needs to hide Phil Gramm...the guy who wrote the legislation that brought us the current banking problem. Or maybe McSame read the poll from Monday where 68% of the public balmes the Republican party for this mess. He's scrambling and looking all the fool.

The reality of it is this.....since the days of Ronny Reagan and the Voodoo economics of Milton Friedman inserted with a proctoscope we've been on borrowed time. Now the chickens want to come home to roost...and they are running with a vengeance. What we are seeing is the total collapse of the "conservative" economic philosophy. The Republican party will soon be relegated to a foot note, if they are lucky. It may not be this year but is is coming and it will be very soon.

All the lies and skullduggery are now being laid bare/

Obviously, this shows the world Sen. McCain can not multi-task. One of the requirements I would think we would want from our President. McCain is a coward and using this bail out as an excuse for not debating. He has made a mockery of this campaign with inadeptness. War hero or not, he is not qualified and this proves it. So, what is he going to do when a major threat happens, "cut and run" like he is doing now.....

McCain is requesting that Friday's debate be postponed so he can focus on the economy and Senator Obama should do the same......has McCain lost his mind?

He nor Barack can do anything about this economy right at this moment. It's not in their hands.

What is two hours working on it going to do? Correct me if I'm wrong, but isn't McCain the one who wanted to debate so badly? Now he's using the excuse about the economy. Correct me again, didn't he say that the economy was doing fine.

Obama called him at 8:30 this morning to have a joint statement. McCain called back at 2:30 and then released a press statement at 3:30. The majority of the American people are too smart to fall for that.

You cannot change the debate by ducking out and that's exactly what McCain is doing.

There once was a man named McCain
Whose campaign was going down in flames
"Let's postpone the debate,
'Cause the heat I can't take,"
OVER describes this campaign!

Time now to pray ,I am a mother of for children with one pay check , gas electric ,fuel oil , high car and health insurance,milk food ect. No help for the weary and Bush wants us to worry about Waren Buffet and his wallstreet bailout ? I dont think so ,and as far as Sarah isnt she surpose to be the economic we are not hearing nothing from her. Bush is pulling our leg if were just surpose to hand over seven hundred billion .
.

Go to the debate... let him chicken out if he wants to Barack. He can call off his campaign right now if he's serious. He is only afraid that this crisis isnt up his alley of expertise.

Go Obama!

Debate BABY Debate!!!

Who is the hell does McCain think he is? McCain is a complete idiot!

He is walking around like he owns the world and is on top of everything.

The only reason why McCain is doing this, not because of the crisis, but because Obama didn't do things the way McCain wanted them done.

MCCAIN IS NOT PRESIDENT and HE HAS NOT BUSINESS TELLING PEOPLE WHAT TO DO!

With the postponing of the debate issue-I just now put my finger on what bothers me most about OBAMA–I have sensed a defiant tendancy about him on several occasions-subtle but it is there.

McCain postpone debate,campaign on hold,700 billion give away.McCain is just like Bush.A wolf in sheeps clothing.I trust no republican at this point.NOW MORE THAN EVER WE NEED A DEBATE.I need to know where they stand on the 700 billion dollar bail out.I think THE PEOPLE WHO SHOULD OF BEEN WATCHING SHOULD PAY.Why should i .

So let me get this straight… Obama calls McCain about taking a public bipartisan stand. McCain responds some six hours later and supposedly accepts, and then thirty minutes later backstabs Obama by announcing his own private proposal and that he wants a time-out?

Snap, that’s some fine politicking there John McCain. You make the Old Boy Network proud.

BRING IT ON JONNY BOY. THIS ELECTION IS JUST AS IMPORTANT TO THE AMERICAN PEOPLE OR EVEN MORE IMPORTANT THAN THIS CRISIS. IF WE DON'T GET THE RIGHT PERSON IN THERE WE ARE IN MORE TROUBLE.

I think a good proposal is to change the topic from foreign policy to economics

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!

PLEASE don't give in to McSame. Trust the force and go ahead with Friday giving Bush 44 the thrashing he so soundly now deserves.

This is just another lame McSame stunt to draw attention to himself as somehow being the hero in the rescue of our economy. Chances are that he can't balance his own checkbook, so spare us all.

Let the games begin.

Just say NO to Bush 44 and Caribou Barbie.

Go Obama/Biden!!!

I fully expected something like this from McCain–anything to keep from being exposed as the light weight he is, economically. Couple this with his campaign's unwillingness to allow real press exposure of Palin, and you have the essence of the Republican campaign: sham, clothed in pretense, buttressed by bravado, and offered as panacea. Ugh!

dont let him off the hook obama!

The people want these debates to go on.... We need to hear the presidential candidates!

Why not state this earlier this week... why wait til the last minute... Because he's not prepared and doesn't want to be asked the dreaded question- " Senator McCain, do you support this bailout? and why or why not?

THE PEOPLE TO MCCAIN- THANKS BUT NO THANKS!

LOL
After missing over 60% of the votes on other important issues, NOW McCain wants to finally cast a vote.

After complaining about not getting "his way or the highway" approach to town halls, NOW McCain would be willing to skip this debate.

After McCain supported Phil Gram's lobbying for sub-prime mortgages that caused this mess, NOW McCain wants to backpedal from his deregulation.

Give me a break. Enough of the gimmicks, McCain.

Debate on!

Good for Barack he is ready to lead and to explain to the American people his plans.the debate is at night and I still do not understand why McCain wants to have it later. Is he afraid of something to be said?

Thank you Brack Obama for not having a knee jerk reaction to the breakdown on the $700 billion corporate bailout like Sen. McCain did. Senators running for president need to show they can work on pressing issues such as the economic meltdown AND keep this crucial campaign going by facing each other in Friday's debate. To do any less would be to overreact and run away from their responsibility to the public. Wait, did I just accuse McCain of overacting and running away? You bet!

why not? ... he wasn't even going to DC and vote on the proposal anyway .... not even "present" this time!!!
McCain '08

I would think anyone that is seeking the presidency should be able to handle more than one thing at a time. If, however, he can't, they could change the venue to DC and the topic to the economy. Then he can provide "leadership" instead of running for cover.

Barack refused... what a horrible decision.

Country before Party – Obama hasn't a clue what this means!

This guy and his pathetic lovers are a shame to this country. When there is no leadership in Washington to resolve this nation's crisis to decide on the $700 billion bailout proposal, he still wants to debate instead of step up and show some leadership in resolving the crisis. His pathetic supportes are saying McCain is scared of the debate and is delaying LOL ..Did you people even know Friday's debat is about Foreign Policy and McCain is scared to debate Obama who is a zero in that field ..comeon stop acting like immatured kids and start thinking like wise americans. Atleast McCain is ready to show some leadership and i am still undecided and want to evaluate these two more. So far Obama has only onething to say is blame it on everything to bush..thatz what he is doin ..SHAME ..If you want to be a leader time to show some leadership.

I say the candidates should continue with the debates and that Obama should NOT play copycat and return to Washington. John McCain is using this as a ploy to gain voter support. Barack Obama needs to keep on engaging with the American people on the campaign trail. Returning to Washington for a few days isn't going to have a direct affect on the bailout or the economy. What will have a direct affect on our economy is having Obama in Washington over the next 8 years and he needs to keep that in focus.

......oops who is in charge

Mr. Duck and Dodge, John McCain.

go obama. this is all politics, mccain is loosing and trying a trick. we are not dumb mccain

Obama MUST go on with this. Why not change the topic of discussion to the economy and we'll see how McCain holds up. He will get flamed by the opposing side but this debate is too important to just postpone. The market will continue to suffer whether or not they have debates so McCain's attempt to get out of getting reamed on live TV will be futile.

Lord Jesus, Protect and Guide Barack Obama, Joe Biden and the Democratic Party to Victory come November so we can change America and the World for the better.

Thank you Jesus...

Barack Obama has what it takes to be President. A President has to be able to handle many issues and crisis at one time. He will not be able to pick and choose what crisis he will handle first. He will need to wake at 3:00am for that call that cannot wait until morning. He must, at a moments notice, make rational decisions that are critical to the country and the world.
Barack Obama has the tenacity to work to his full capacity to make this a better country.

Barack Obama IS our CHAMPION! AND he will continue to be when he is our PRESIDENT!!

John McCain is getting his DUFF kicked and now, out of concern for the country, he is suspending his campaign? Give me a break! He wants to cancel the debate and focus all his attention on the ecomony. McCain, the one who admitted he knows nothing about the economy!

Barack Obama's poll numbers are gaining daily and he is surging in all polls because people have confidence that he does know how run Washington and the country. He has McCain running scared.

McCain is a coward. He cannot stand up to Obama and he knows that his attempt at looking "presidential" is the only chance he has.

MCCAIN IS A COWARD!

ONE MORE REASON WHY I AM VOTING OBAMA/BIDEN '08

Go Obama Go don't let them try and side step the debate and distract the voters.

Your comment is awaiting moderation.
I say move on with the Debate. Mcain is looking to make himselve look good. A president is suppose to be able to multi-task and if he can't then he's not ready to govern this great country.

We the American public is looking forwar to these debates and Obama should not fall for this Sham(the republicans are good in this kind of gimmicks)
CNN PLS POST

ARE YOU KIDDING?? WITH ONLY 40 SOME ODD DAYS TO THIS ELECTION, AND MCCAIN WANTS TO POSTPONE THE DEBATES?? JUST ANOTHER PLOY BY THE REPUBLICANS TO GET OUT OF A DEBATE THAT WE ALL KNOW BARACK WILL WIPE HIM UP IN. DOES THIS MEAN THAT POOR SARAH WILL BACK OUT TOO?? WHAT A JOKE, MCCAIN HAS HAD THE LAST 25 YEARS TO DO SOMETHING, WHERE HAS HE BEEN??

I say still have the debate. We really need the debate now because we can see where everybody is coming from. It took all these years to get in this mess it will take time to get out. Mccain is using this to try and show leadership on the economy. If the economy was not the number one issue now he would want the debate. I say Obama should hold a press conference telling the people that we need the debate and it is no telling when a decision could be made. The election would be over with if we listen to Mccain!!!

I don't blame Obama for being "inclined" to debate. A president needs to be able to multi-task. If some terrorist were to drop a nuke bomb on a US city, or another 9/11 sized attack... sure I can see suspending the campaign for the security of the country. But this... the economy... is not a terrorist attack.

I think the tone of the debate may need to be negotiated. But I don't think an all out suspension is warrented.

What would happen to McCain if he were elected and he had to address more than one important situation at a time. Would he ask the wold to suspend all situations so that he could tackle them one at a time?! Please do go on with the debate. McCain is running scared. We now know why he wasn't spending any time preparing for the debate; he had no intention of going through with it. McCain is really that concerned with this financial crisis?! Why didn't he make this announcement at the beginning of the week? If the bailout proposal is all that is important why is Palin continuing her tour of the UN building introducing herself to whoever will open their door?

that's right.......politics first

FIRED UP, AND READY TO GO!!!

Obama is going make McCain mad on stage just watch.

This is another lame attempt by McCain to avoid the biggest issue of this election by not having a debate while the topic is heavly in favor of Obama. McCain want's to wait till when?? Oh yeah until the Dems shoot down this trojan horse of a bailout package that will only allow the rich to get richer and the American people to get the shaft and then blame Obama for not voting for this non-regulated bailout. NO THANKs McCain!!

LET'S GET IT ON!!!!!!!!!!

Yes, Obama is inclined to go ahead with the debate because Obama puts himself first- Not his country. What an empty suit he is!

McCain will suspend the campaigning, then the election will be suspended, then Bush will declare emegency powers and suspend the constitution (as he has done for the last 8 years), declare martial law and declare himself dictator. Too bad you people have burned all the books then you would realize the parallel between events in Amerika and NAZIS germany.

DEAR FRIENDS AND THE PRESIDENT OF PAKISTAN:
BUT THEN PALIN IS NEITHER BEUTIFUL AS IN DEEP NOR INTELLIGENT. STILL STATUTORY RAPE! SHE IS LESS THAN A WOMAN.

Not necessary to suspend this debate. We have ONE president would is charge and it's not John McCain. This seems to be a stall tactic to change the republican course and handle the Palin/Lobbyist Connections(Davis) etc. What are they hiding now?

Obama should respond in one of two ways: (1) I agree we should be in DC at this time, but we owe it to the people of this great country to hold our debate on Friday, my suggestion is that we move the venue to DC for logisitical purposes; or (2) I consent to Sen. McCain's request, but feel that the people of this great country should not be let down - so instead, I think it perfectly appropriate for the VP debate to take place this Friday instead of the scheduled Presidential debate.

Of course the debate should go on. This is just a feeble attempt by McCain to try and show leadership. He has leadership alright. He has helped lead this country into this mess in the first place.

I'm puzzled why McCain is suspending his campaign and postponing the Friday night debate to work on the bailout bill. As President, he may not be able to "suspend" issues simply because he wants to focus more on another issues. It seems to me the debates are more critical because we voters need to understand how our next President will respond to a crisis. World events do not follow a neat packaged schedule. It's called Multitasking John! This seems like this move may be only political showboating.

By all means he shouldn't change a thing. McCain has been trying desperatly to keep control of the debates since his proposal for summer town halls. His attempt to postpone the Friday debate is nothing more than a political move on his part.

Are you kidding? The bailout is a lot more complicated than just 5 days of work for Congress if it's going to help Main St. as well as Wall St Both candidates are being briefed daily by the crafters of the bailout so it's not like they're missing anything. Let the debate continue as planned. We need to see these two candidates in a real discussion, apart from all their campaign ads.

McCain is afraid to debate.

And he should be.

Putting off is our problem now. We need new leadership in the White House. mccain is just looking for an excuse.

Baarack you should be as inclined in helping to operate your state. I see Chicago is #1 in forbes most stressful city. based on unemployment, High Housing, High Gas, Costs, polution. Wow you have done a great job.........

I wonder if Obama is "inclined" to affect legislation.

Look at this tactic being perpetrated to discourage OBama supporters.

Please get the word out!!!

IMPORTANT VOTING INFORMATION

PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE ADVISE EVERYONE YOU KNOW THAT THEY ABSOLUTELY CAN
NOT GO TO THE POLLS WEARING ANY OBAMA SHIRTS, PINS OR HATS, IT IS AGAINST
THE LAW AND WILL BE GROUNDS TO HAVE THE POLLING OFFICIALS TO TURN YOU AWAY.
THAT IS CONSIDERED CAMPAIGNING AND NO ONE CAN CAMPAIGN WITHIN X AMOUNT OF
FEET TO THE POLLS. THEY ARE BANKING ON voters BEING EXCITED AND NOT BEING AWARE
OF THIS LONG STANDING LAW THAT YOU CAN BET WILL BE ENFORCED THIS YEAR!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

THEY ARE BANKING THAT IF ARE TURNED AWAY YOU WILL NOT GO HOME AND
CHANGE YOUR CLOTHES.. PLEASE JUST DON'T WEAR OBAMA GEAR OF ANY SORTS TO THE
POLLS!!

If Congress hasn't figured this out in the last 15 years...how do you expect them to figure it out in a week? This has been a snowball and nobody wants to take blame. McCain ..get your documents together and have this debate. You haven't been on the Hill for the last few months.....The American people know this is a problem. The Repubs have a solution but want to use it as a trump card for the election.
Country first my a??.

Obama can manage both.... besides Obama called McCain this morning about this precisely, now McCain goes ahead and do this... just to show that McCain will do anything to be president. of course they will say that politics are aside, sure, just wait, McCain will take credit for the "bail out" just like he s trying to take credit for the "surge"and will attack Obama if he does not accept.

obama call him out cal him out he wants to run away from economy because he was part of the problem. obama 08!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Please don't let McCain get out of the debate. He's losing, looking bad. McCain denied Davis was in on the Fannie Mae mess and now that has come out with the media and everyone seeing that his campaign is nothing but lies. Troopergate is going on even after they tried to stop that with lies.

DON'T LET HIM DODGE THE DEBATE BECAUSE HE KNOWS HE IS NOT GOING TO PERFORM WELL – AND OBAMA WILL!!!!!!!!

Obama should move on with the debate. The McCain is using stalling tactics....he is not ready. McCain can't solve the economic problems of the country by suspending his campaign and postponing the debate alone. Bring the debate on!

I have an idea. Why don't they scrap the debate part and televise them sitting down and actually talking policy together. Each would get 5 minutes to outline their proposed economic solution. Then 3 or 5 random economists (from all over the political spectrum) can quiz them about the potential effects of the things they just outlined.

The Debate should take place.

Why are we depending on the congress that couldn't agree on anything for two years to finally agree on giving companies corporate welfare?

Honestly this smells of a ploy to one up Obama and honestly I would just like both candidates to put dirty tricks aside and debate about the topics that most Americans care about.

-Sean

Once again McGain is trying to grab the high ground. His is but one vote. They are working day and night in the Congress to get this worked out with everything Obama called for and more, (restraints and oversite). So instead of issuing a joint statement, McGain wants to act. Act like a leader, no its business as usual just more of McSame. We fooled em once, four years. We fooled em twice, four more years. Why yes we can!!! Fool em again.

Score political points, avoid the debate and look good. Anyone with half a brain can see through this political move.

McGraw, (take a bite out of crime) and Palidin, (have gun will travel) mimic every move Obama makes instead of firing his campain manager, he wants to LOOK like Obama, (Presidential).

Of course he would want to press on with the debate because he is going to forget the lines they fed him during his debate camp!!!! What an egotistical phony; just talk talk talk! CNN: I guess you won't be putting this comment up!

Obama doesn't want to lose the opportunity to become president regardless of what happens to the rest of us. Typical democrat. Party First!

John McCain is a national joke now.

Thank the lord for that!!

This man, John Mccain, is scared out of his mind!

And he has the audacity to exude that the campaigning and debating will be on his terms only! lol That is laughable and America knows it.

If thats the case, there should have been ZERO campaigning during this election period. Arent we fightint two wars? Arent our men and women dying everyday in Iraq and Afghanistan because of the failed foreign policy of this administration? So why campaign at all john mccain? This man, mccain, thinks that somehow his presence in the senate will do something to imediately change the course of this economic crisis? He obviously feels some kind of guilt coming on as a result of his 26 year history or voting against regulatory measure that would have prevented such a crisis… John Mccain, save your monday morning quarterbacking for you pep rallies. America doesnt need you, the least qualified to guide the country during an economic crisis, making decisions at this time!!!

Stop running scared from the debates and stand up like the man you wish you were!

The debate should not be cancelled.

Dear Friends:
A man willing to act even during a crisis! Obama set it farther demand that you both do both! Preparedness and an example of your abiilty to handle a crisis, your job and still give a speach and answer questions! Be stellar and stealth both of you!

Palin is the road to no where! Obviously either it was poor planning, planning changed and the road was for a future anticipation of growth but due to public response the Idiot could not state or have the courage to find the answers. HUMPTY DUMPTY SAT ON A WALL AND HAD A GREAT FALL! ONLY THIS ONE WAS AND IS NOT WORTH PUTTING TOGETHER AGAIN. POOR POLITICS AND ESCAPE GOATS. PALIN YOU ARE A FOOL!

MAY I ADVISE THE PUBLIC AND THE PAKISTAN'S PRESIDENT THAT TELILNG A BEUTIFUL INTELLIGENT WOMAN SHE IS BEUTIFUL PUBLICALLY IS AKIN TO THE BIGGEST INSULT THERE IS. IT IS SEXUAL AND AS BAD AS STATUTORY RAPE!

So the rockstar prefer to debate than to work on the economy? Thats the rockstar for you...

Im proud Obama resisted McCain's "postpone" trap

McCain sounds like someone who isn't ready and wants to find a reason to delay. It is the same reason that he has kept the media away from his vice-presidential pick. Delay...delay...delay...they are praying that delay will win the day.

McCain (along with everyone else that has been a fixture in Washington) have had LONG ENOUGH time on how to fix this. Bring on the debate! What are you afraid of?

That's correct... McCain and Obama are not the main players in this financial crisis. The people that are working on it don't need their advise... This is clearly a ploy..

McCain's afraid to be asked specifics regarding the bailout and so his tactic is to postpone since the team is saying that they will most likely have an answer by this weekend...

McCain we the people see through this ploy!!! This country says–THANKS BUT NO THANKS!

Everytime things dont go the way mccain wants them he wants Sen Obama to do as he says,he wanted Obama to go overseas,Obama did that then he complained about all the attention he got.Now that he is not prepared for the debate he want to cancel.It has been schedule so go on with it.He can use the same piece that bush used when he went against kerry.Maybe palin is telling him not to so it like he has been doing her.

It is all well and good that McCain is concerned about the economic bailout. But I believe that the Congress and the House can resolve this without any interruption in the Presidential campaign nor the debate this Friday. I also believe that the Obama campaign was the first to contact McCain for a joint statement of this problem. This just might be a stalling tactic from the McCain campaign and to make himself look like he cares about the economic bailout more than Obama.

Please, Senator McCain, this is being handled at the White House as we speak and you should give all parties involved credit for figuring out this problem first. If you are needed for a vote once the final decision has been made, then both candidates should vote then. Just because you stop your campaign and delay the debate doesn't mean that a decision will be made just because you are present.

Remember, it is the Republican administration that caused this crisis and it will probably NOT be a Republican to fix it. This decision is a partisan effort and let the Congress do their job. Again, as I stated before, once the final decision is made, you will be called for a vote.

Obama is capable of multitasking. This isn't 9/11 or pearl Harbor and these men (unfortunately) are not president yet. Good decision Obama, bad decision McCain.

Obama scores a much expected first round KO .

The debate goes on. Obama is not campaigning for Senate but for the POTUS and we need the debate to go on as planned. McCain has no reason to pull out of the debate. I believe he wants to delay for tactical reasons and that is to ready himself for the rescheduled debate. They don't need McCain in Wash DC.

The debate needs to happen.

Yes, please do continue with the debate. McSame should learn how to manage a debate and vote within the same week.

that a boy!

why postponed, its not like the crisis can be solved and fixed over night... i do believe a 2 hr debate wont harm anythign... besides, it's a friday night!

Obama I support your decision to continue the debates, after all:

THIS BAILOUT SITUATION HAS BEEN GOING ON FOR ALMOST A WEEK. SO ARE WE SUPPOSE TO UNDERSTAND THAT IT IS MORE IMPORTANT FOR MCCAIN/PALIN TO ATTEND UN MEETINGS THAN TO ADDRESS THE BAILOUT SITUATION. IF THIS IS SUCH A CRITICAL MOMENT WHY WAIT UNTIL NOW. MCCAIN IS UNPREPARED AND THIS IS JUST A PLOT TO SKIP THE DEBATES. ARE WE TO SKIP THE ELECTION ALSO, IF MCCAIN FINDS ANOTHER ISSUE ON NOV 3RD

I guess we now know who is in the campaign for himself and who is in it for the good of the United States. Obama and Biden both voted for the Bridge to Nowhere and are attacking Palin....

GOOD............ITS JUST GRANDSTANDING BY MCCAIN......A PLOY.

WE HAVE HEARD THIS FROM REPUBLICANS BEFORE.........WITH IRAQ! THE SKY IS FALLING.........THE SKY IS FALLING........THEY HAVE NUCLEAR WEAPONS.........WE MUST ATTACK........NOW!!!!! LIES.

NOT THIS TIME BUSH/CHENEY/MCCAIN!

NO LIES

NO SCARE TACTICS

WE NEED CAREFUL, DISCERNMENT OF WHAT NEEDS TO BE DONE TO HELP OUR NATION FACE THIS .......DISASTER!

WE DO NOT..........DO NOT..........NEED TO BE SCARED........TO BE BULLIED INTO A DECISION!

TAKE YOUR TIME CONGRESS, THINK, DEBATE, DISCERN.

AND MCCAIN...........DEBATE SEN. OBAMA! DON'T GRANDSTAND!

McChicken! You come out and you debate with Barack Obama! What a stunt! Oh please, you can do your business Friday morning and then debate Friday night. You and Palin are a cowards! Country first my butt……..when you picked Palin, you were not thinking of us.

For all of you who say he needs more time to cram or is simply scared..please. Lets get the facts straight, McCain has been trying to debate Obama since the moment they both won their respective nominations but Obama declined the invitation. Why, well when you take away the teleprompter he is not very good debater. Don't believe me, well all you have to do is look at the debates between Obama and Hillary and as we all know Hillary kicked his butt. Lets also not forget that the first presidential debate is regarding foreign policy, obviously McCains strong point. Please people, think before you speak and try to come up with something different than the whole Mc...its really old and childish...can you honestly not come up with something else or are you simply a victim of hollywood marketing??

The debates should definitely still be held. This stunt by McCain will backfire. Looks a little desperate.

The debate needs to go on.
We are getting closer to November & we need to know where they stand on the issues.
I think it is very dangerous to not have the debate.

Nobama can't waste all of "debate camp" training, now can he. He will forget it all, if it is put off a week.

And don't think that McCain is not ready, because he is.

Nobama, debate 1st country 2nd.
McCain, country 1st debate 2nd.

It looks like we know who the real LEADER is!!!!!!

I agree. I'm sure taking a few hours out of a Friday night isn't going to make or break the decision...

As the people, we deserve to hear these two debate and express their views. We have a very important decision to make soon, and we deserve to be informed. There are 98 other senators there that I'm sure are quite capable of filling in the gaps for a few hours. After all, they've been doing it all week!

I think they should move the debate to Washington DC and hold it Friday night as scheduled. It would only take a very few hours away from their work in Congress. A President must be able to focus on multiple situations at once and this would illustrate that ability.

It's great that McCain is suddenly so worried about all this that he wants to suspend the debate. The debate is 90 minutes, Johnny Boy. What are you so afraid of? I should hope that the majority of the American people would be inclined to go forward with the debate, as well. It seems McCain is afraid of something., like perhaps getting his clock cleaned by the younger, more intellectually savvy Obama..

I think McCain is a real manipulater. I really don't care what he does
right now. He is just scambling for the vote.

Obama/Biden 08

DEBATE HERE, DEBATE NOW! DEBATE DEBATE DEBATE !!! This campaign is finally over. McCain should have been locked away in the attic, not nominated to stammer through meaningless rambles of ReThug nonsense at the Debate. This is elder abuse. Everybody knows Obama is the greatest speaker of our time. People won’t even know McCain is on the same stage. Obama is going to destroy that feeble old man. McCain will need paramedics to help him down off the stage.

Seems to me that McCain is running scared and is using the economic situation to hide behind just like he's hiding behind Sarah Palin's skirts!!

Absolutely, the debate must go on. As an Obama supporter, I do believe McCain is posturing. But I must admit his strategy is brilliant. He's putting Obama on the defensive. Obama needs to come out hard and fast and demand the debate must go on. Why not just do it in DC? Then McCain will have no excuse.

How convenient!! McCain is SCARED to debate Obama. The debates need to proceed!!!!

good for him. Time to shut these dictators and lock them up!

Dear Friends:
A man willing to act even during a crisis! Obama set it farther demand that you both do both! Preparedness and an example of your abiilty to handle a crisis, your job and still give a speach and answer questions! Be stellar and stealth both of you!

Palin is the road to no where! Obviously either it was poor planning, planning changed and the road was for a future anticipation of growth but due to public response the Idiot could not state or have the courage to find the answers. HUMPTY DUMPTY SAT ON A WALL AND HAD A GREAT FALL! ONLY THIS ONE WAS AND IS NOT WORTH PUTTING TOGETHER AGAIN. POOR POLITICS AND ESCAPE GOATS. PALIN YOU ARE A FOOL!

It's time to watch the candidates move ahead with the presidential debate, it's a 90 minute flight from Fl. to Washington DC. I'm not going to loose money with this financial collapse of publicly owned companies. Let's not forget that Mae & Mac went to Washington DC as lobbyist with $173 million to spend the wealth. This will hurt the rich, let them sink, I can't afford to pay the gov. $10,000 dollar for the bail, because that's what $700 million equates to. Will the rich pay their fair share, or will they pay $10,000 like I will be forced to pay on full time disability (and not for carpal tunnel) a real disability.
The Presidential Debate Should Move Ahead On Schedule.

Shame of Mc Same.......What is going on grandpa? The polls are not so good right? Are you afraid of Obama?
I can't wait to watch the debate this Friday!!
Stop playing cheap politics Mc Bush....... you really think the american people will buy your pathetic move?

In this campaign, McCain is the child who wants his mommy to say he is too sick to go to school because he didn't do his homework. That is the reason why he doesn't want to debate. What is his presence in Washington, DC going to do for anyone ???? He should have stated his intentions last week when this mess started, not two nights before a debate, that again, he is not prepared for.

Since neither of these two candidates are members of any of the committees trying to hammer out the details of the bailout plan, why would their presence be necessary at this time. McCain wouldn't say if he would even support a plan, now he wants to forgo the debate on Friday to show how much he cares. The financial crisis wasn't even on his radar until his poll numbers began to drop. This is all grandstanding and he ought to be ashamed of himself.

DEBATE!!!
DEBATE!!!
DEBATE!!!
DEBATE!!!
DEBATE!!!
DEBATE!!!
DEBATE!!!

GREAT !!! I think this is a lame ploy for McCain to improve his economic failures. Too bad he DIDN’T VOTE OR CARE ENOUGH to prevent all the problems. Just like Bush…. Wait for the devastation and THEN do something post trauma.

OBAMA, OBAMA, OBAMA!!!

"Veterans for Obama"

McCaine can't do two things at once and is too fragile to handle the demands of any of this.

ON WITH THE DEBATES!!!!

Obama better be careful, the republican regime isn’t going to hand over the reigns of the country quite so easily... Those guys and gals will do and say anything to gain an advantage.....

Don’t get duped....

That’s what Hillary meant went she said Obama wasn’t prepared... He wasn’t prepared for the repub's war machine.

Why delay at this point, let's takl about what is really going on in this country and please lets not talk about war records of past or who decided to give birth and raise a child. I want to hear about my taxes, keeping my home, jobs, educating my kids, my 401K. I want to know why we are even entertaining the idea of paying off thoses CEO's who have ran Wall Street into the ground with their greed. Please speak to me about where our soldiers will be in another year and what will be waiting for them when they come home. Please Mr. McCain and Miss palin tell me how you all will get this country and other countries to follow your leads when you can not even make you ideas and laws work within your own homes. How can you understand the lives of the working people if you think that most working people earn no less than 5 million(surely you were joking). And I am not surprise that the major loss of homes for Americans does not make you sleepless at night as you have too many to count, but most of us only have one and we are fighting to hold on to it. Show up at the debate on friday if only to show those who are for whatever the reason holding on to the hope that you are in it to win it. Mr. McCain you and Mrs. Palin are so much the PAST what America needs is a future.

McCain to 'suspend campaign,' calls for first debate to be delayed.
PLEASE OBAMA DONT GIVE INTO THIS COWARD!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

McCain is on the run show up by yourself if you have to Obama do not let this weasel dictate the terms

Obama do not let him cancell the debate , he thinks he can take over as he is not ready also if the debate is cancelled does that mean the VP will be cancelled fo a week? Do not trust him Obama. VP she is also not ready and neather is McSame.

McCain is such a CHICKEN and WIMP!!!!!!!!!!!!!

McCain wants to suspend the debate but he will still do fundraisers, huh? So if the economy is that big of an issue for McCain why not suspend the fundraisers? Typical just buying time.

The debate should go on. A leader has to be able to handle more than one thing at a time. If both candidates need to be in Washington to work on the bailout–fine. Then move the debate to Washington.

Don't fall for it Obama!!!! This is another tactic by McCain because he's down in the polls. Last I checked there was a president in office named Bush so it his problem. The quicker we get him out the quicker we can get this crisis over with. Go Obama/Biden

Has McCain lost his mind? Even if he felt the country would benefit by having his mighty intellect and vast experience interjected into the discussions on an appropriate "bail out" bill, can't he just cancel a campaign trip or two and go back to DC? Why the grandiose "We are suspending our campaign" talk? Why must ads be pulled? Is it all a campaign stunt, or does he truly believe the country can't walk and chew gum at the same time?

It makes me worry that if McCain were president, he'd be more likely to try to suspend our Constitutional government than let it work through a difficult situation. He'd be more likely to rage into war than work toward peace. He'd be more likely to suspend civil liberties and elections than force the government to address multiple issues at once.

He'd be more likely to fly off the handle in dangerous, unpredictable ways.

Obama can do more than one thing at a time...apparently Mccain just want to pander and make people thing he is doing something. make up your mind McCain...suspend and postpone , or not. Do not take this attitude that I will debate if the bailout is done...geeez....he cannot make a decsion and stick to it.
Guess he thought the suspension thing was good, until people said no we want you to debate so had to back peddle again....

These are my private thoughts and have nothing to do with my place of employment.

Good for Obama. McCain couldn't help with a financial crisis if his life depended on it and he certainly can't effectively spar with Obama. You go Obama.

He should go back to doing what is is paid to do.............work as a senator.

This way he can add another day to his 147 days of experience.

I wonder if he knows where his seat is?

Why does McCain need to postpone his campaign? When you're the president of the US, you don't get to postpone everything so you can focus on one crisis…you need to be able to handle multiple issues. If he wants to go hang around Washington to be involved, that's fine, but if he feels the need to postpone his entire campaign, I'm not sure he has what it takes to sit in the White House. Unless this is all just political posturing, in which case he doesn't deserve to sit anyway. Either way, they should continue with the debate.

Great Move OBAMA, don,t buy into this sanctimonious krap from mccrazy.he is afraid.You guys can go back to washington after your
first debate.

If this were the other way round, John McCain would call Obama a coward. Let's have them debate, ready or not McCain. Don't use this moment for political gain. The President should be able to make 20 impossible choices in a day. If one little debate is going to distract McCain from keeping America safe, what about the rigors of being president. It's about time McCain suspended his disingenuous campaign.

I suppose that's one way to weasel out of debating against Obama(taller,smarter,better looking). What a scam.

They should. I don't really know what McCain can accomplish. He's not the President yet. Let the elected administration deal with this issue like they should.

McCain is a campaign to nowhere.

Obama, just show McCain what multi-tasking is all about.

You go Obama. Don't let the old cad run away! There is no reason both of you can't campaign, get updates, and then fly in to vote when it comes time. It shows that he can't multi-task and it shows that he stole your idea of a joint statement. He's a J-E-R-K!

$700 billion to bail out wall street how about main street? America do you realize that that $700 billion that you will spend will be use to bail out Chinese banks and other foreign banks bad business and then they will sell these business back to us American. We should not let this to happen because the same mess will come back again in wall street. Wall Street greed, big CEO Payout need to have control over them. This $700 billion just show you that the republicans do not care. Congress please do not let George Bush rush you and us American into this mess. Bush has four months in power and he does not care of whatever mess that $700 billion will make.
Is that package has a plan to bail out main street as well? The economy cannot run good without main street confidence. If main street do not have money that $700 billions is a waste.

The debates must go on! America needs to see the two candidates together debating the issues – ESSPECIALLY in these turbulant times.

Of course the Debate should go on, this is where we find out who can cut the mustard, apparently Mccain can't

Another McCain political stunt? The Straight Talk Express has gone so far off the road now banjo's can be heard. But if John McCain is saying he can't handle a crisis and a debate at the same time then perhaps he does need the time out.

McCain is delaying debate to gain some grounds .

Obama is ready and should go on with the debate. McCaine is not, tough.

Yes, Debate the sucker, Obama! Go for it. You will win with
this nitwit trying to cancel the debate because he has become
senile!!!!
Senator Reid, is not happy about McCain throwing a wrench
into their progress on this important subject. Did Bush give
the AOK to have McCain come in and "slow down" this issue.
Sen. Reid said that HE DOES not want this important issue
(financial crises of all times) to become a POLITICALLY motivated
fiasco. That just shows you how dumb and scared McCain is
to debate Obama Friday Night. Poor judgement to interfere with
the SESSION. Now, McCain would not be coming to Washington
to "interfere" with Congress if he did not have dubba's OK.

Loved what Cafferty's summation on this was. I was laughing
for a change. Cafferty is a genious. He said McCain has not been
to Congress since APRIL and now he wants to come with Obama
and cancel the PRESIDENTIAL DEBATE!!!!!!

You go Barack-he's just a chicken-knows he doesn't stand a snow balls' chance in Haiti in the debate.

Pat

McCain is no real leader. He forgot to mention that Senator Obama call him first with the idea to suspend the campaigns. The two parties worked out the details and a joint announcement was suppose to be made. Instead being the snake that Mccain is he made the annoucement to the press solo as if it was his own, never mentioning he stole it from Obama. That is no TRUE REAL LEADER. He has no intrigity. Check your facts.

This is not tiem for "Political Games"! I want to hear what they have to say!
I think we (the little guys) lose no matter which way they vote...We pay regardless!!!
Why not take the "Millions" the Ceo's all seem to get and use that to "Bail them out!"
I'm tired of paying for the Governments mistakes!!!!

No need to delay the debates .Or to supend campaiging, McCain needs to learn how to multi task .Whoever the president will be will most certianly have to do so.

Why does McCain need to postpone his campaign? When you're the president of the US, you don't get to postpone everything so you can focus on one crisis…you need to be able to handle multiple issues. If he wants to go hang around Washington to be involved, that's fine, but if he feels the need to postpone his entire campaign, I'm not sure he has what it takes to sit in the White House. Unless this is all just political posturing, in which case he doesn't deserve to sit anyway. Either way, they should continue with the debate...that's Friday night, and shouldn't interfere with the crisis...maybe change the venue if he wants to be in Washington.

The debates have to go on – if they do not – this situation will be unprecedented and will drive the morale of the American people even lower – we cannot let this crisis bring our country to a halt. Then all the values and processes that we hold dear in this country can be subect to change and interpretation based on how we define a "national crisis".

While the economic crisis is urgent I also think the debate needs to go forth as planned.

I'm not sure if this a political ploy by McCain to gain him favor with the voters or if he sincerely thinks his presence is crucial in D.C.

Why not, he (Obama) knows what caused this crisis and he wants to benefit from it not fix it. Obama is not fit to be "Commander in Chief"!

I GUESS NOW WE KNOW WHO DOESN'T GET IT. HIS POLITICAL FUTURE FIRST THEN AMERICA. OBAMA-- NOT ONLY A BABY KILLER--– BUT ALSO DOES NOT GET THET COUNTRY COMES FIRST THEN YOUR POLITICAL CAREER

WHERE HAS McCAIN BEEN UNDER A ROCK....THE ECONOMY CRISIS DIDN'T JUST HAPPEN TODAY. MAYBE HIS ADVISORS JUST CAME BACK TO THE COUNTRY FROM SOME PARADISE ISLAND BECAUSE McCAIN HAS STATED ALL ALONG THE ECONOMY IS GOOD. I THINK HE IS AFRAID TO DEBATE.

On Bill and Hillary:

They need to be called for what they are–power-hungry traitors who are transparently trying to undermine Obama. Chris Rock got it right:
"Hillary LOST the nomination...Bill's nonsensical endorcement of McCain as "Qualified is nothing short of perfidious.

The entire idea of suspending the campaign is ridiculous. This is too important an issue to deal with behind closed doors in Washington. The American people MUST be involved. There is too much at stake to do this any other way.

Senator John McCain, is trying to stall next he will say he want to put off the election Vote because of the Oil shortage..

This man need do what is on the schedule and Debate!!!!!!

Obama has to be freaking out. We watched Hillary cream him in each and every debate.

Now, his campaign is putting Obama-first instead of Country First.

McCain is a true patriot who loves his country.

McCain is afraid of debating Obama, so now is trying to pretend he cares about the country. It is all a big political ploy to fool the American people.

Is McCain serious?????????
A time out on the campaign??????

How about McCain shows some real leadership and actually stand before the American people in this time and open up about his views on getting out of this situation?

This is garbage! McCain is sinking in the polls, the hot topic of the day is over his head, he's got bad press like crazy on Palin...
yes, I guess I can see why McCain would prefer to ride this period out outside the bounds of the spotlight.

Yes!!!!!!!

Obama shows leadership by reaching out to McCain FIRST to issue a joint, bipartisan statement. Papaw McCain agrees, but then took it and ran with it - "this is my chance to delay this debate I'm going to lose anyway".

I'm inclined for McCain to debate also. If this was such a big deal, why didn't you head to Washington a week ago, when this all started?

Obama/Biden 08

This is a mess and John McCain is playing games with the American people. If Obama has to show up at the debates by himself then that's what he should do. This a shame and the world should call them on it.

The economy is crucial but a couple of hours won't make any difference for a debate.

PLEASE DON'T SUCCUMB TO PRESSURE FROM MCCAIN! AMERICANS WANT THE DEBATE TO GO ON AS SCHEDULED.

I do not trust John McCain. Too many lies. His staffers are getting money as lobbyists/consultants for Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae. Phil Gramm, his top economic advisor, developed the legislation that caused this financial crisis. Now he wants to postpone the debate. I think he is not up to the task of debating!

I also think he is grandstanding, using this crisis. I hate it when these people give us these deadlines and hold a gun to our heads saying do this or else. They did it to Congress with the Patriot Act , and again to Congress for the War in Iraq. I think we have a serious crisis. I am also not unaware of the fact that Paulson, this same Treasury Secretary who now says the situation is dire, was saying the exact opposite back in April. He said on Meet the Press that our banks had never been stronger and the economy was healthy and just fine. I do not believe for one second that he was telling the truth when he said that, since every indicator back then was predicting a crisis. And I do not believe him now.

Especially when Goldman Sachs, where he came from, is going to reap HUGE benefits from his "rescue plan." I also do not like him insisting he be given absolute power with a provision that no court of law has oversight! This is way too much power and things are moving way too fast. I know we have to do something fast, but we need to also really be very careful.

We need at least 7-ten days to really suss this out and look at ALL the other options. These people are lying. John McCain is part of it. I say lets have a real debate. Obama will hold him accountable for this crisis. Obama probaby knows something about this that McCain doesn't want out there. McCain is dirty in this. And don't forget. McCain was a key member of the Keating Five in the Savings & Loan scandal of the 1980's.

backing out already huh mcsane

OBAMA knows MCCAIN is FULL OF IT AND IS A COWARD PLUS what the heck is someone who said many times he knows nothing about the economy . WHAT A BUNCH OF BS !!!!!!!!!

Let him debate himself...he'll have two different answers!

Good for Obama. Way to stay focused. He can add GREAT multi-tasker to his public resume. With less than 6 weeks away the last thing anyone wants to see is a hold on getting to know the Candidates....

Way to go Barack! Don't for McSame's mess!

Way to Go Obama!

McCain did not suspend for main street when loosing homes

over a million and counting in foreclosure this year

Biden done a good job today, took McCain to task on Global issues.

Victory is comming into manifestation, powered by the people.

Well of course he is. Anyone with half a brain or more can see that he only looks out for himself (or his friends in Fannie and Freddie, or Chicago clum lords).

Sure, you libs will say McCain's running scarred, but it just goes to show your ignorance.

Although I'm sure if Barrack cries and tantrums hard enough to keep the debate on that McCain will still beat him soundly.

But hey, that'll give the weekend for the left, the news media, and all you whacked out Obamaholic koolaid drinkers to try to spin it your way.

Before anyone says "McCain is putting country first". Please realize the country will still exist after this crisis (for better or worse). The debate is an opportunity for the candidates to speak to the American people about moving forward without the ridiculous spin of the attack ads.
Also FYI – Obama contacted McCain first to say they should release a joint statement (politics aside), McCain agreed and then went back on his word and made this VERY POLITICAL move. McCain has not voted since April (Obama – July), if the issue comes down to a single deciding vote, sure go. But McCain is simply trying to capitalize politically on a very real issue. Don't be fooled.

Senator Obama should not give in to McCain and agree to continue the debate. Senator Obama should make a statement that he is ready to debate since the American people have been looking forward to the debate on Friday and that he can also work on the economic crisis during the day if that is necessary. If McCain wants to go to Washington, he can go before the debate or after the debate. I guess he cannot multi-task.

If John McCain is so concerned with America where has he been through the rest of this mess. You are telling me that all of the sudden, even though this mess has been going on for months, he needs to be in Washington. Sounds like a ploy to get out of a debate he knows he is going to lose. If you want to do something for America let the people see who you really are and what they are going to be getting by voting for you. Some one who has no clue and lets the Republican war machine run them. When is the last time you actually said something you really believe. Be a man and a leader, how can you live with yourself. If you lie to us now what sort of man are you really going to be in office. We have no idea where YOU really stand and you and your VP are puppets in the biggest puppet show of all. God help America!

I want a president that can multitask!

Seriously folks, did FDR postpone his campaign to deal with the depression and WWII? McCain is full of it.

Not exactly surprising, is it? There's rhetoric and then there's meaningful action. I guess judgment is just rhetorical to Obama....

Go For it Obama...we need the debate!!!

Postponing the debate? Crisis or no crisis, the issues need to be talked about.

McCain is a chicken. What he's really trying to do is buy more time to prepare! This is a chess move. Calculating & Decieving.

The show must go on.................

And I am inclined to listen to you. Thank you Senator Obama, common sense prevails.

Whether or not Sen. McCain actually thinks he can help mitigate this disaster, even the most conservative observer would have to agree this is a political maneuver. He's on the ropes, plain and simple.

Of course Obama should go ahead with the debate!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
It was what two or three weeks ago when this mess started that McSame said the basic economy was all peachy keen!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
After 26 years of voting against regulatory controls McSame wanta to suspend everything and sun to DC to fix the crisis that he said weeks ago that nas no crisis and his Buddy Graham said was just Winning Americans.
WAKW UP AMERICA AND SEE THAT MCSAME AND MOOSEBURGER ARE EVEN WORSE THAN THE FUEHRER AND HIS DEPUTY.

Yeah Barack!! McCain's not ready-DO NOT suspend the debate!

If you buy McCain's reasoning to suspend his campaign, I've got a bridge to nowhere and a road to nowhere in Alaska that I would be happy to sell you.

GREAT! A President should be able to go to meetings and have debates if he is knowledgeable about what is going on in America.

GOoooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo OBAMA!!!!!!!

Dont fall into the GOP sneaky trap he is trying to stop your momentum!!!!!!!

I am with you there Sen Obama...McCain just wants another superficial photo-op........................we have a ton of technology for McCain to talk to his repubs cronies...travel is not necessary...oh I forgot..he doesnt know how to use it.

WE want the DEBATE!!!!!!!!

NO BAIL-OUT

Dont let McCain "Bail-Out" of the debate

If Americans fall for this political trick we are dumber than anyone ever said we were.This is mindblowingly fake and wrong on McCains part.
It's not putting country first-it putting McCain first.
Why can't he debate Obama on friday?
Debates are never cancelled.The American people want to hear from both candidates.Let's be real here and call this for what it is-a political trick and McCain is trying to avoid debating Obama on the economy.

Obama is right to move foward with the debate. As President, they will have to multi-task, so they should be able to do so now. They cannot fix this economy over the weekend. McCain is using this as a delaying tactic, just as they are hiding Palin from the press, because they have nothing of substance to offer. "If you want the job, you have to show up for the interview!"

Obama can multi-task and this election is about the people. The American people are not as stupid as McCain makes them out to be. Obama’s statement should be simple, if John McCain feels he cannot handle this crisis and must stop talking to the American people while he handles it, that’s fine. Obama will continue to campaign and is prepared to debate. He knows the McCain camp respects his decision because McCain said this is not about politics. Obama’s decision to campaign has nothing to do with McCain because McCain should have shot off about suspending his campaign unless he and Obama had agreed to it first. It’s politics to say you will suspend your campaign but only if someone else does because then that makes the person make their decision in the publics eye which is a political ploy, not bipartisanship. That’s putting John McCain first, not country first.

It is absolutely ridiculous for McCain to attempt to postpone the debate, and even more if Obama chooses to go along with it. If ever we need a debate, it is now, when there are very real issues to discuss. Maybe we can finally get past the BS of sound bites, personality and feigned indignation about lipstick comments, and finally hear real plans and strategies from each campaign.

Have the debate in DC – its not like there are a shortage of appropriate venues or technology to broadcast it. Its not scheduled to go much more than an hour, which will leave plenty of time for McCain, Obama and Biden to get back to the Senate to work on the bailout legislation, regardless of its progress. It is time for them to debate – that is the essence of American politics.

That´s why the debate should go on, that way we´ll know their position on the situation...

I strongly recommend that the debates proceed as scheduled. There is no reason to suspend the campaign or delay the "debates", which are really question and answer sessions. There will be any number of plans, schemes about the economy from both sides of the political aisle. Whoever wins the election will have monumental tasks and piles of garbage to clean up by this administration. Let's see how each candidate will handle the dynamic issues.

A true leader must be able to juggle multiple stresses at once.

A 90 minute debate, which all Americans are interested to see NOW to better decide on our future president, is not a long period away from the current economic mess.

I believe this is a McCain ploy, pure and simple. McCain already dictated the terms of the Biden/Palin debate.

The debate should go on. This is a perfect time to see the candidates under real time stress.

Come on Senator McCain. Rise to the occasion!.

Because the election is more important to him than his DUTY to his Senate office.

They should debate. Having McCain and Obama in Washington isn't going to make the difference between succeeding and failing on this issue. Game on.

now is the time for debate....when our country is in crisis and some americans still need to see that george mccain (mistake intended) and sarah cheney are not qualified or smart enough to get us our of this mess...... actually george mccain helped get us into this mess..

we need this debate now.. lets not stall any longer.. our future is waiting.

McCain's Senate committees are Indian Affairs, Armed Services, and Transportation. His presence in Washington right now serves no purpose at all.

Yes,
Please have the debate. I want to see McCain go down in flames.

Why does McCain need to postpone his campaign? When you're the president of the US, you don't get to postpone everything so you can focus on one crisis...you need to be able to handle multiple issues. If he wants to go hang around Washington to be involved, that's fine, but if he feels the need to postpone his entire campaign, I'm not sure he has what it takes to sit in the White House. Unless this is all just political posturing, in which case he doesn't deserve to sit anyway.

if barack postpones the debate he will likly lose his chance of being president. because the gop are trying to put thier history of deregulation under the rug so people can't see how bad they ripped off the american people.. go OBAMA

You go, Senator Obama! Don't fall for McSame's ploy. This is a dire miscalculation on the part of the McCain camp to make him really seem like that "maverick" we keep hearing about. But it has come off as a totally different animal - namely, a feathered one that's the centerpiece of Sunday dinner! What difference will the time spent in a 90-minute debate make to the economic crisis? It will show the world what we already know - that Obama is the man for the job of President!

If Congress cannot proceed with the "Bailout Crisis" without John McCain and Barack Obama, we are in far worse shape than what they are saying. I say, they should proceed with the debate unless McCain's camp is fearful of the reaction the Republican Party is receiving due to getting us in this mess in the first place. McCain's poll numbers are already dropping in States he thought they had sealed up. A debate could move those numbers further towards Obama.

I note that Obama called McCain early this morning to ask about creating a joint statement. McCain, on the other hand, did not deign to talk to Obama about suspending campaigns and debates before going public with his announcement. This is grandstanding by McCain. Rather then cancel the debate, how about switching the topic from foreign policy to economic policy. At this point in time, the debates are not sideshows, as McCain seems to think. Rather, a debate between the two candidates – one of whom will shortly inherit this mess- is all the more important.

The country has had campaigns and debates during crises including the Depression and world wars. If McCain chooses to suspend, that is his decision. However, it is not in the public's interest for Obama to do likewise or for the debate to be deferred.

A rescue plan?? What are we, the Justice League now? LOL!!

McCain is behaving as though the process of electing a president is some sort of sideshow that can be suspended at will, whether because of hurricanes or Treasury pronouncements. His actions are a cynical attempt to shake up an election dynamic that is not in his favor, see his nomination of Sarah Palin, and more worryingly reflect his contempt for the democratic process, see his campaign's wanton disregard for honesty in advertising.

That's right. Don't fall into that POW trap. He's scared so he wants to derail everything. Hey McSame, you and your ice puppet can go back to where you came from. Your friend Bush helped screw the country out of Billions, now look where we are.

Yes, absolutely, you should debate!

This is a cheap trick by McCain to break your growing momentum in the polls. No one needs McCain's economic "expertise" in Washington. All he has to do is cast a vote as Senator when the time comes.

I say move on with the Debate. Mcain is looking to make himselve look good. A president is suppose to be able to multi-task and if he can't then he's not ready to govern this great country.

We the American public is looking forwar to these debates and Obama should not fall for this Sham(the republicans are good in this kind of gimmicks)

John McChicken!

The only way McCain isn't going to put his foot in his mouth is to suspend campaigning.

I agree with Obama...keep the debate plans for Fri night!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

He's holing up for 3 days just to prepare. In the real world as President, he won't get 3 days to prepare if a crisis hits. Meanwhile, McCain is shifting gears to meet the current crisis – and actually doing the jobs he's being paid for. Meanwhile, Obama is not showing the flexibility or the ability to prioritize, traits a leader needs to deal with multiple events.

wow i smell fishy on mcsame...2hrs of debate cant stop anything i know that mught be karl rove idea

Remember McPain 'calls' on Obama to stop the campaign and not debate. Obama should 'just say no!' Which republican pulled this one out of his/her butt??

All your lies will catch up with you. You will never be more than a disgrace in this country.

YEA!!!!!!
OBAMA DONT FALL FOR MCLAME'S TRICK!!
THE DEBATE IS FOR THESE KINDS OF ISSUES!!

McCain is just looking for an excuse to put it off. Just like putting off Palin speaking off the top of her head for as long as possible by not allowing her to speak to the gaggle of reporters. And mainly because they don't believe a woman can actually handle the pressure!

Stick to your guns, Barack! McCain is only trying to politicize this. Did he REALLY need to be in MS during the hurricane and make the big hullaboloo about it's patriotic not to whoop and cheer during theconvention? They sure did the whooping within 24 hours.

McCain plays games and I used to be a supporter of his. I have so lost respect for him. I would rather have you both on the debate stage to hear your ideas for running this country than any posturing back in Washington to try and be something he isn't anymore.

Good! He should stick to these guns and call for the debate to occur. A good candidate/President should be able to focus on both of these. Why not debate Friday, it does not help the economic situation to not debate. We need to see these men in action – DO NOT CANCEL, BARACK!!

McCain is displaying political Gimmick. There is no reason whatsoever to postpone this debate. He and his campaign is simply trying to score political goal as simply as that. American people are not STUPID.

I wonder if McCain's next suggestion will be to postpone the election until the financial crisis is sorted out...

yessssss.....McCain is helping is friend Bush, he knows he will loose the debate, what a good excuse to bail out of the debate.

Obama should not help the bailout of Bush's bailout.

Don't let yourself influence by the G.O.P.

Denise
Montreal

And 100 million of us will be inclined to watch. McShame is only doing this because his poll numbers are sinking like a ship.

I think the debate should go on. I also think that McCain is using this crisis to display leadership skills, like Palin did with world leaders. I hope neither is the case because not all Americans are that gullible.

Everyone, please don't fall into this obvious trap! Think for yourselves people. Don't be the hamster in the wheel running and getting nowhere.

If you do then, this country will get exactly what it deserves.

Sounds like our "maverick" is afraid to debate.

The debates should go on..........McCain would avoid them altogether if he could!

WOW!
Further evidence that Senator Obama is more interested in talking rather than fixing things...Wasn't it Paul Begala yesterday advising that Senator Obama and McCain would be best advised to return to Washington?

Talk is cheap Senator Obama

The campaigns should debate and continue to campaign. Sens Obama and McCain need to be able to multitask. As President one of them will have to handle multiple crisis events at once – they can't place one on hold.

Sen MCCain is being dishonorable using the crisis the country faces for political posturing. His poll numbers are slipping and he wants to opt out of the campaign. Disgraceful – Sen Obama needs to take him to task.

Sounds good to me. Debate away!

Obama obviously had prepared vigorously for this debate, and he doesn't want to waste the opportunity.

But if McCain won't be there, who will Obama debate? (lol)

McCain is right to suspend his campaign. This crisis is too important, and if not addressed, there won't be much left of a country to govern. Country first!

We should elect Hillary as president!!!

CNN Post:

Well, I see that McCain was trying to pull a fast one and avoid a debat on how "National Security" has gotten us in this Economic Crisis…..him and his advisors can't hold a candle when it comes to Obama and his intellect!

Nice Try McSame….I must give you that, nice try. Now Obama is about to whoop you on this issue!

While I can appreciate the gesture, McCain would be willing to do anything to not have to debate Obama. He knows he cannot win.

Hows this McCain...
You go to Washington, Obama will meet you there, and you two can attend the financial negotiations,and Then... you can take two hours off and have the Debate in Washington. Bet that will fix you!!!!

I agree Obama and McSame should debate on Friday...nothing has happened since yesterday to change anything. Americans will continue to do what we do. Do you think we're going to suspend the Election because McPander is suspending his campaign? We have a President to elect. Do your jobs? Let Congress hash this thing out, go vote on Friday and then do the presidential debate. I see McSame/Palin as pulling another "political" stunt. Pluhhhhh....eease.

Obama/Biden '08

Oh, stop the show! The debates must take place!

First: Gov. Palin cannot speak to reporters, Second: Sen. McCain scared to debate. Sheesh! What next??????

Where was McCain's camp last week when this became a major problem? Why is this suddenly more important to them?

We still have other issues that need addressing altho it seems they have all gotten thrown to the wind with this mess on Wall Street. This country should be ashamed at having leadership that put us in the mess.

Obama/Biden

LEADERS LEAD

OBAMA/BIDEN 08

I agree that the debates should go on as scheduled. This economic crisis is something that needs to be discussed with America to help understand the candidates viewpoints and exactly how they intend to resolve it. Between now and Friday there is plenty of time to crunch numbers and provide a solution that will calm the nerves of both Wall Street and Main Street. It appears that McCain will somehow try and use his slogan "Country First" to somehow make Obama look like he doesn't care or is more interested in the election. Don't kid yourself people... both of them are in it to win it. I have to believe that McCain has other motives behind this move because it was less then two weeks ago when he said our economy was strong and now he says it's a historic crisis. He speaks out of both sides of his mouth which is fitting since Palin doesn't speak at all.

McCain is just looking to grandstand. This mess in not about him.

SEE JOHN RUN. RUN JOHN RUN.

Dont fall for it Obama.

Obama will not cancel the debate.

CNN Post :

Well, I see that McCain was trying to pull a fast one and avoid a debat on how "National Security" has gotten us in this Economic Crisis…..him and his advisors can't hold a candle when it comes to Obama and his intellect!

Nice Try McSame….I must give you that, nice try. Now Obama is about to whoop you on this issue!

Why would a 2-hour debate be a problem for McCain???

McCain and Obama are not the President. McCain is playing politics. They have agreed to joint statement. What is McCain's position? He is just trying to duck the debate. Wonder if he was leading in the polls and surging if he would call of the debate (definitely no and he would call Obama a coward if he pulled this stunt if Obama was losing).

Americans get real.

It's more important than ever to hear these two debate each other. We need to know where they stand and if McCain feels unprepared, there's your answer. Stick to your guns Obama.

The crisis is not only with our economy it's with McCain's campaign –

Have the debate and talk about the ECONOMY instead!

It makes sense to have the debate since it is about foreign policy.
One would wonder if this campaign suspension has anything to do with McCain's political fortune according to the polls.

The debate should go on as scheduled. McCain needs to learn how to multitask. He can fly down to Mississippi Friday evening and return to DC Saturday morning if necessary which I am sure Obama will also be willing to do.

The debate must go on. Please, John McCain, you don't deserve to get a time out because you are dropping like a rock in the polls. You don't get a chance to ride the crisis bandwagon now, just nine days after you said, "the economy is fundamentally sound".

My household has been in crisis for more than two years. McCain, you are just a rich out of touch partisan politician on the wrong side of history trying to appear as though you are in control, but we know better.

John McCain you are George Bush III trying to scare us who have already been in crisis. The average American is and has been in crisis. Nothing has change except your desperation. Period!

Obama can just vote "Not Present" on any bailout legislation like he has done in the past. This will achieve 2 objectives:

1) Keep his record ambiguous and non-existent.
2) By failing to take a position it gives him an out in case the bailout goes south.

Very admirable of him.

Why cant the oil companies bail out AIG?
The American oil Companies have the Billions to Bail out the bad companies...Why does the Government have to do it?

Obama should debate Palin then...Isn't it what she's in the ticket for?

Go on with the debates! I do not want this be put off because McCain knows the foreign policy debate will end up being about the economy. After all the negative press that McCain is getting as well as the latest polls this is making him all too nervous. What is he going to do in Washington? He'll be speaking to other senators and it's not like there isn't any cell phones? He can still communicate by cell phone with the rest of the crew. Rick Davis matter doesn't help either,which Davis was receiving $15,000 per month up until last month.

Obama is going to beat McCain at his own game. Twice.

McCain doesn't want any part of O in a debate shootout. He knows he will be shredded to pieces.

Obama should go and answer questions in Miss. whether McCain shows up or not. The show must go on and the American people want to hear the candidates' answers.

If John McCain can't handle two things (the economic bill and the debate) at once, how can he handle the pressures of the presidency?

Run and hide, John. What's going to happen if you are elected, God forbid, and you have to deal with multiple problems on the same day? Like what happens every single day to the leader of the free world, and thanks for admitting you are incapable of doing the job.

mccain is afraid to debate Obama so he will use any excuse to get out of it. mccain knows he can't win so he wants to run and hide.

the debate should go on. we are too close to election day for this to be delayed. this is a ploy by the republicans to try and get out of a debate they were going to loose. if the issue of the economy is so important to them then why not change the venue from foregin policy to the economy?? it's not as it if McCain is some economic expet to where he is going to be needed to try and fix this situation anyways. they are trying to use this bail out propsal to their advantage because they are clearly unprepared for a debate. man up McCain!

THis is just another trick up McCain's sleeve. He's trying to avoid the debates because he knows he'll be blown out of the waters!

Five ways on how to avoid a debate you didn’t prepare for:
1. Tell the public that the dog ate your homework.
2. Threaten not to show up if a bailout is not reached by Friday morning.
3. Arm twisting Congress to get an agreement if they want to see a debate by Friday.
4. Hang out in NYC for photo op with foreign dignitaries.
5. If all else fails have a hissy-fit on the day of the debate claim the economic crisis is destructing you as if you didn’t see it coming 5 years ago.

YES! Y:ES! YES! The Republicans (especially) Lindsay Graham are using scare tactics to put American's in fear of what will happen. Hell, it's already happening. There is nothing that can be done that will bring this economic situation to a screeching halt!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Good for Obama. It was a smart move by McCain's people to try and put Obama on the defensive but Americans are too smart to believe that it's anything more than a campaign gimmick. The McCain camp is feeling this thing slipping away and is grasping at straws for an angle that might give them a leg up.

The way I see it: Sen.Obama called Sen.McCain first and wanted to really put country first and issue a joint statement. What did Sen.McCain do? He put himself first and issued his own statement and muddied the water. Who do you think will work better with other leaders? How would you like to work with someone like Sen.McCain? You know you do the legwork and the guy shows up for the credit.

Enough of this nonsense. The debate should proceed. If McCain did put country first, he would have done it discreetly like Sen.Obama, not flashily trying to gain political points. This is not leadership. This is gimmick just like Palin pick was. Now, more than ever, I don't want these knee jerk reactions from my President. I do not have the luxury to suspend activities as a working mom. Neither should McCain.

Country last. Getting elected and imposing socialism first.

Since when does one candidate dictate when the debates will be held? Next thing you know is he will want it to be held on Palin's back porch so he can have Russia as a backdrop.

McCain is delusional. Wasn't even a good try as anyone able to think for themselves could see right through this stunt.

Good for Obama. McCain couldn't help with a financial crisis if his life depended on it and he certainly can't effectively spar with Obama. You go Obama.

McSame is afraid to debate Obama....what a coward. Has says nothing and will never be able to say anything. Oh, but what about Sarah Palin??? Now she has become worldly in two days of PR work.....do they think we are that stupid?

I vote for the debate to go forward!!!!

McPain is terrified. How handy to postpone the debate...until maybe after the election...???

Great for OBAMA......I am glad he said NO. McCain is afraid that this debate will truly show the country that he is unfit to lead .....the Republicans have dimished the legacy of this country long enough and I look forward to seeing Obama rip him into....

I truly believe the debate and campaign must go on. The President of the United States must be able to mulit task, not just focus on one issue. I believe this is an atttempt by the McCain campaign to stop the bleeding of his campaign and call a "time out" or 'Mercy". He knows he has taken a dip in the polls and this is just another in the long list of excuses to not be accountable for answering the tough questions. He needs to step up to the plate and answer to the American people. He also can't play the "age" card on this one either. Shoot he doesn't know what an economic crisis is with his 13 houses and 13 cars. How can he truly understand what Americans are goiing through!!!

IF OBAMA WANTS MY VOTE...HE BETTER DEBATE. I NEED TO HEAR SOMETHING IF HE HAS TO GO IN AND JUST ANSWER QUESTIONS! THAT WILL MAKE MciNSANE LOOK REALLY BAD!
WATCH PEOPLE, NEXT PALIN WILL WANT TO CANCEL HER DEBATE AGAINST BIDEN...WHAT EXCUSE WILL SHE USE...HER DAUGHTER'S WATER BROKE...GIVE ME A BREAK!

The debate is too important to fob off as Senator McCain wants. And franky, trying to put it off makes Senator McCain look like he's afraid to debate Senator Obama.

Hmm. Maybe he is!

McCain might think that he's shrewd but if he really wanted a bipartisan effort why didn't he call Obama and discuss the possibility of suspending the campaign?! I mean come on!!! Obama called him this morning at 8:00am to discuss a joint release but he goes and call a press conference to suspend his campaign and then "implores" Obama to do so...On live Television!!! The funny thing is that McCain has been avoiding the press like a bad case of Hepatitis B... all of a sudden he's calling a Press Conference to announce... calling off the delay and going back to Washington?!... Pandering to the American people on something as serious as this is a slap in the face...

I hope Obama is smart enough to see through this one...

why not, mcbush wouldn't remember anything about voting anyway!!

They should be debating. There's no reason they can't be in Washington all of tomorrow and part of Friday, then travel to Ole Miss for Friday's night debate. We need to see this debate sooner rather than later, especially as early voting is being permitted in a number of states.

Move the debate to D.C.

A crises is ALL the more reason to HAVE a debate.

good. mccain wants to drop everything, including debates, to finally show up on the hill and cast a vote?

i mean, the dude hasn't bothered to show up to vote on anything in almost 6 months. yesterday he admitted that he hadn't even read paulson's bailout plan. now suddenly he has to quit the debates?

part of being president is the ability to walk and chew gum at the same time, john.

MCCAIN NEWSFLASH

OBAMA KNOWS HOW TO SKIP AND CHEW GUM..........

HE CAN RETURN TO WASHINGTON AND DEBATE.....

SAME OLD TRICKS...MC CAIN WE ARE DONE WITH YOUR GAMES....

YOU ARE LOSING AND THIS IS WHAT YOU CAME UP WITH....

THIS WON'T WORK!

Debate can not wait. Presidential candidates can not wait for things to cool... they need to address things when the issue is hot!

If McSame is scared ask him to have Sarah by his side during the debate! LOL

I hope that BO tells this cat, he'll meet him in Mississippi.

SHALOM

There is no need to not debate. A few hours in front of America talking about economic security might do the country good. Obama should pivot and suggest that the topic be changed from foreign policy to the economy so that Americans can hear their perspective based on what they know as of the time of the debate.

My God,what is with cnn praising Mccain for this.
Obama called him first to say let's make a joint statement in unison and McCain jumps and gives a press conference.That is a real snake for you and we should all see that it!
I am appauled at McCain!I am disgusted at this joke!
I bet their next move is to cancel the vp debate!
MCCAIN IS TRYING TO SHAM AMERICA!

This is better than my Wednesday night poker game....

Again: McCain sees the national issues, Bama sees Bama issues.... (same as with visiting troops, same as with telling Iraq not to start US withdrawal under Bush... my goodness.. who is this guy....

McCain continues to postpone events, because he doesn't have the answers, only excuses ......when McCain doesn't speak that means Sarah Palin is quiet also ....she's a puppet waiting for McCain to pull her strings at every turn..

try to delay it johnny boy

Why not debate? The American public needs as much information and discussion as possible.

Good for Obama. If ANYTHING is going to be changed about Friday's debate...let's have it focus around THE ECONOMY. If McCain is really concerned about this issue – as most Americans are at this moment – then let's have the discussion focus on that topic like it should be rather than trying to forcefeed us all a bunch of stuff on foreign affairs that – frankly – don't matter much to the average joe right now.

I don’t understand why as candidates they must refrain from debating the issue when that is their most important job.
CNN must modify the debate to be exclusive to the crisis and the two candidates must tell us how they plan to ride it out if they are elected.
There are enough politicians and bureaucrats in Washington working on the issue.
We have a serious job of electing one of them and McCain and Obama should tell us how they will fix the problem. It is more important for them to tell us this at this point than anything else they may do.

What blatant grandstanding on the McCain front! Sure, the candidate with a self-admitted lack of understanding of the economy is going to 'maverick up' the bailout and save the day!

When in reality ... his party created the financial mess in the first place and McCain, cowering from recent polls, is looking for any way to spin the situation in his favor.

Hope this blows up in his face!

I think Obama should defer to McCain's request to delay the Presidential debate, but only if the Vice Presidential candidates take their place in the Friday debate slot. McCain would surely welcome this opportunity to express his confidence in Palin and her readiness to carry on when he is unavailable, or unable.

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.

that's the right thing! McCain is down int he polls, hasnt voted int he senate since april, and thinks the economy is fundamentally strong..and now...NOW he wants to pretend his the maverick? This is political theatre and power playing..especially since OBAMA CALLED MCCAIN FIRST THIS MORNING TO ASK FOR A JOINT STAATEMENT ABOUT THE CRISIS>> now mcain plays one up on you..well he aint foolin anybody

Ol Miss says the debate will go on..and Obama could lay out his ideas an dpositions that millions are entitled to see..perhaps McCain is not prepared to defend his sdisatrous policies

President has to be able to handle more than one tactic......this is the President if you can't handle more than one thing.....you are not Ready!

More than ever, with the current economic crisis and the global repurcussions that are and will continue to be part of it, the debate this week is CRUCIAL as part of the decision making the American voters need to exercise November 4th-

OBAMA/BIDEN 08 AND 12!! LEADERSHIP NOT AFRAID TO DEBATE!

Now, John McCain wants to put on his Superman suit and save the day. He has had years on the job to prevent the current crisis-why today? This move to cancel the debates is like a school age child who is not prepared to take the test. He is pulling the fire alarm at school to delay the test. Shame on him!!!

That yellow belly liver, McCain. Telling our great statesman, what to do. If anyone calls the shots, it will be at the desgression of the one who holds the most poll Votes by CNN. B.H.Obama doesn't operate on old man McCains steam. He got his own Rhythm and Jive. Sometimes, two bumps that way, sometimes three Bumps this a way. Thats like asking him to put on some Penny Loafers when he always wears Stacy or florshien.

Of course McCain does not want to debate. He knows that 90% of the questions will now be about the economy, his economic plans (does he even have one?), is propensity for deregulation, and the topper–the Keating 5.

Your darn right! The debates should go on as scheduled! Just more hiding from John McCain! Did you cancel debates in 1932 because we were in the worst depression in our history? Nope! We have to move forward people....let the Bush administartaion figure it out....it just might give him something to do instead of all those vacations he takes down here in Crawford constantly!

You go Obama!!!! America is waiting for this debate!!! McCain is copping out!! McCain has been in charge of deregulation of ALL of the rules that were put in place after the 1929 crash!!! McCain is sooo responsible for this mess!!! I want to see the debate!!! Short of death they should NOT be postponed!!!!

You want to have a discussion about who's Presidential and who isn't? How about the guy who can walk and chew gum at the same time?

McCain is stalling because he's getting killed on the economy and wants it to look like he's doing something. McCain is offering nothing new and the polls indicate that people are starting to realize it! The revolution has begun and cannot be stopped, not even for desperate politicians. This has been dominating the news for weeks and NOW it's time to do something about it? And it's a coincidence that the newest polls have Obama way ahead? No sir!

Mr. McCain, the people want to hear what you have to say. Grandstanding isn't going to get you anything. This has been doming

Hell, I wouldn't want to debate Obama either.

Obama/Biden '08 & '12

What a dirty rotton political game McCain is playing.

Why didn't he call the Obama campaign and discuss it...

McCain went out to the media to look all united, .... I do not trust this man John McCain...I think he is pulling a terrible political trick and it is already backfiring on him. We the people have decided to vote for Obama!

The idea that a leader can't multitask is ridiculous, and so the debate should go on. McCain is trying to change the story of his ties to the Freddie Mac-lobbyists in his campaign connection, and Obama is falling into to a trap by not being able to confront McCain os so many issues. Clearly, the emergency in Washington is about a credit crunch for "main street" but really this about the Administration yanking the chain of the media by screaming bloody murder in regard to the financial mess. The day after someone will rise, and offer to cover the payrolls, but let the consumer addiction go into rehab while real reform is worked out!

Dave

Obama should reschedule the debate and take care of the business of the people that elected him Senator. Put the people first, that's why he was elected. It appears to me that he has done nothing but run for President most of his tenure as Senator. I'm a registered Democrat but will probably vote for McCain; he seems to care more about the people of this great country than Obama does.

Does anyone else smell a McChicken???

McCain wants to show leadership, FACE Obama, FACE the people, FACE the questions, FACE the cameras. Dont be McRun. Fake leadership is not real leadership

Jack, I believe this really shows McCain is not ready to debate and since yesterdays revelation that Mr. Davis is receiving checks from the fannie mays for years, that this is McCains WAG THE DOG moment.

Don't let McCain give you the okey dokey. They are snakes.

Obama/Biden 08

Unless they're willing to postpone the elections too, they should go ahead with the debate. It would be irresponsible to deny the public a debate to help them make a better informed decision. Given the number of independents and undecideds, it's very important to have a real sense of the candidates, vs. relying on the negative, but rather uninformative, ads that both have been throwing around.

This just tells you who Obama puts first! Himself! McCain once again put his country first! This is what we call Presidential and a True Patriot!!!

Way to go Obama! Do not backdown....We have faith in you are a leader.

Old McDonald aka McCain is afraid !!!!!

Obama/Biden 08

I prefer actions over words. They can debate the economy until they run out of breath; nothing will be resolved. There will always be time to talk later, when an action plan is in place. Now is time to roll up your sleeves and get back to the job we pay you to do. What is Obama afraid of? Props to McCain for taking action!

OBAMA IS SHARP RIGHT NOW AND MCSAME IS NOT READY.

TOO BAD.

LET'S GET ON WITH THE DEBATE!!

AS AN AMERICAN VOTER I AM STATING THERE IS NO REASON TO RE-SCHEDULE ANYTHING.

SINCE WHEN IS MCSAME SO CONCERNED?

PLEASE SPARE ME THE POLITICAL STUNTS.

Drama Drama Drama that's all McCain has. Again it is a distraction.
If McCain can not multi-task then he is unable to be a president.
If he must stop his campaign now then someone needs to find out why because if you haven't heard McCain's word does not mean a whole lot right now.
Check your facts and get back to me later.

Of course McCain doesn't want to have the debate or continue to campaign. He's losing in the polls. If he hides out in Washington, he can pretend he's actually doing something to solve the problem. Not!

You can bet your life that if Barach Obama did this, that everyone would be crying "political gimmick"! But, because McCain does it, somehow it is a sign of leadership. Are you freakin' kidding me with this mess. THE DEBATES MUST GO ON!!!

Go forward Obama!!! McCain is just unprepared!!!

BO just wants to "nuance" in front of the TV cameras again. That's all he's got, folks: talk/talk/talk. Beware of this fraud.

What a dumb stun on McSame's part – just sad. I sure hope Senator Obama insists that the debates go forward. Despite his monumental ego McSame is not going to solve the nation's economic crisis at 9:00 p.m. on a Friday night

The American people fully deserve to be brought into this process by seeing the two candidates take each other on in the debates. This is simple avoidance, period. I don’t care how they spin it. McCain will use this to claim that Obama is more concerned about politics than the country, but that is totally false. If Mr. McCain really cared about our democracy, he would stop trying to shut down public and press access to this race and let us all get involved. He is running a very anti-press/anti-public campaign. This is ludicrous and really low.

Well played Obama! I'm glad I'm not running for President...I would have falled prey to McCain's trap. The debate takes 2 hours out of the day. All senators are not in the room hammering this thing out..it goes to a comittee first then it goes up for vote. None of these guys are on the comittee anyway. Plus this debate is on foreign policy...if McCain wants to take the lead..do it at the debates if the subject comes up. I'm proud of the democrats ...they are really counterpunching to these tactics. They are really smart this time around. Let's face it's the Republicans who got us into this mess...let them own up. Force them to work the extra mile...including McCain. They have to earn our trust again...Obama you have my vote and my trust...You "My Friend" are a fighter!

Bridge to nowhere . Road to nowhere. Sarah is nowhere near reporters...nowhere ... IN THIS TIME OF CRISIS....Photos with leaders...only....

Why is John McCain taking credit for something Barack Obama initiated.

John McCain knows he is not doing well in the battleground states. He also needs more time to prepare for the debates.

Let the economy tank to win some political points...

This is exactly how he grabbed the nomination... Failure in Iraq means success for Obama!

sad, but true.

Go O! Don't let McCain manipulate the process.

Its to close to election, debates need to go forward.They really won't make a difference their anyway.

This does not care about anybody else but himself. Clearly evident by him wanting to keep debating why the country goes under. Maybe someone tell him that if he does not pay attention to the crisis maybe he wont have a country to go back to.

YES WE CAN!!!

The debates must go on. America is ready for the debates friday night, CNN is ready, Jim Lehrer is ready, Obama is ready, the students and staff at the University of Mississippi are ready but the question is, is Macain ready?, maybe no.

The president of the United states should be able to walk and chew gum, the president in his/her duties deal with multiple crisis at the same time. Macain should be able to work on the economic crisis and comply with his committments to debate Barack obama on friday night.

I do not beleive that macain is prepared or ready to be president, he is not ready to lead but Barack Obama is ready to lead the greatest country on earth.

Obama don't fall for it! McCain is trying to pull a fast one. We the American people want to hear from both of you, McCain has no back bone or answers to the economic bailout except to bailout his buddies!

within a few days from the "strong fundamentals" of our economy to a great depression. mccain who said himself that he doesn't understand the economy and still need to be educated now wants to solve this crisis? are you kidding me? that's just anoter cheap deception maneuver! lets debate on friday! lets debate this crisis! lets debate the economy! you can work the whole day and still can discuss on the evening!

Of course Obama still wants a debate....
Unlike the dinosaur McCain, Obama can Multi-task.
He understands Wall Street and how it works (he warned of this a year ago)
McCain doesn't even know how much he spends a month because his wife has an unlimited supply.
Unfortunately for McCain, a week long crash course of the Economy may not even be enough.
SOME people have a hard time understanding economics, John McCain is one of them.

God forbid something happens to McCain if elected and Palin has to step in with an unstable economics market.
She probably still thinks our economy is based on seal skins or hockey pucks.

THANK YOU!

Someone who truly cares about debating over the issues, and is READY for this debate.

Unlike Mr. McCain, who is offering his excuse of our weak economy (which a couple of weeks he called strong) to cancel a debate for which he is obviously NOT ready for.

WAKE UP AMERICA!

Obama 08

As it should be.

The Leader We Believe In!

This is the exact time we need a debate! The crisis makes it more important that we learn about our choice for leadership, not less.

Since the election can not be canceled, we simply can not cancel the information we need to make that choice.

Maybe I'm cynical, but my first reaction was this was a political ploy and not done out of concern. Probably because debate was shut down during the decision of the Iraq war.

We need to go forward and chose our next leader. We need this information.

Keep the debate!!! We have leaders to take care of crisis. We as voters also need to make an informed decision!!!!!

mc cain has just lost this election because he is putting his agenda before the american people. what a airhead

ALL YOU OBAMA SUPPORTERS AND HATERS ARE A BUNCH OF MORONS.OBAMA ISN'T A LEADER. MCCAIN IS WORRYING ABOUT OUR COUNTRY WELL O.B. ONLY CARES ABOUT HIS CAMPAIGN. YOU TRASH MCCAIN AND CALL IT POLITICAL. IT SHOWS WHAT KIND OF PRESIDENT OBAMA WILL BE ZERO. OUR COUNTRY IS IN DEEP TROUBLE AND ALL HE CARES ABOUT ISGLAMOUR AND MONEY. OBAMA TALKS B.S. ABOUT THE ECONOMY. HE HAS A CHANCE TO HELP HIS COUNTRY AND TURNS AWAY AGAIN LIKE KATRINA EARLIER IN THE RACE. OBAMA IS A BIG JOKE AND HIS SUPPORTERS ARE NAIVE LITTLE PEOPLE.

I have a better idea. Let's have MCain suspend his campaign until November 2nd. Obama can keep going.

McCain has lost anyway.

The McCain campaign will suspend airing all ads and all campaign events pending an agreement with Obama, though Salter did not know whether John McCain will suspend fundraising activities.

He added that McCain would take part in the debate as scheduled if Congress reached agreement on the measure by Friday morning.
+++++++++++++++++++++++
So the McCain camp says it is ok to work on raising money but not to show up with the American People?

Yea...that tells me what I need to know...

They have been dealing with this bill for a week now... putting off the debates will only delay McCrazy for looking as Out of Touch as we all know him to be.
I think McCrazy is just using this as a ploy & it is not a major concern for him... he's trying to make the American people think something different than what it is.
Obama/Biden '08

He's looking at the battleground states and seeing his numbers declining,Sen McCain does not want to debate he wants to pull the wool over the eyes of the American people.

For God's sake – this country has a General Election in less that 6 weeks – we need this Debate – McCain is just chicken and is running for the hills!

Obama..remain strong and call McShame a bluff! Don't fall for this political ploy and bring on the debate!

Right on- the show must go on! There's nothing that can be done for the economy that this debate would get in the way of. I'm tired of McCain's ploys: sophmoric transparent challenge to town hall meetings & blaming their bad behavior on Obama not going along with the proposal and their dodges: sequestering Palin, no press questions, hiding in general.

Thank you Obama for letting the people hear your voice.

The rumor mill is that the republican party is looking to replace Sarah Palin. Troopergate is said to be way over her head.

There is no reason this debate cannot take place as scheduled. We are talking about electing a new president of the United States and this debate is very important. These debates are the only real glimpse a lot of us have at the two candidates in a issue based back and forth discussion. There are lots of people with a lot more knowledge of this crisis than McCain or Obama working on it. Let them work out the details and then McCain and Obama can go back to Washington to vote on it. Let the debate go on as scheduled. If Mccain can't multi task then he has no business in the White House. This election is TOO important.

Sooooo when if McCain were president and in the middle of a crisis, he'd ask for a time out?! You've got to be kidding me! Loser.

Obama, I smell a rat in the McCain camp. You made a good judgement call ONCE AGAIN to stick with the debate that Amberica has been waiting to see. Pro Obama!

I think the candidates have to do both. They have to get to work as Senators AND they have to keep to their debate schedule. Debates affect the votes of many citizens the way TV ads don't, so messing around with the schedule seems intended to interfere with the education of the electorate.

McCain and Obama are just 2 out of 100 senators and are not the experts in the matter, like Dodd and Shelby are. Each candidate is seeking to get the singular position as president. A proper mix of legislating and campaigning is critical at this point, and not doing one full-time and the other not at all is wrong.

OK ...

Let's swap the Presidential and the Vice Presidential debate dates.

Next ....

I want to see a debate!! Barack, don't let McCain skip out of this!!! Don't fall for his dirty stall tactic.

Obama can debate himself, since there are so many versions of Obama anyway.

McCain has once again staked his reputation on the COUNTRY FIRST as opposed to his EGO. This selfless move to return to D.C. and the U.S. Senate to address this economic crisis is a risky move at best, but it emphasizes McCain's true character.

McCain/Palin '08

Nice try McCain. Your trying to use this to your political advantage and then you will say that's what Obama is doing! Big surprise like we didn't see something like coming down the pike.

You, your whole campaign crew(including that waste of space Palin) and the bush administration should be kicked of our country.
YOUR A SHAME!!!

DEBATE !!!!!!!!

Democracy does not stop for criminal corporatists and greedy Wallstreet financiers !!

This country needs the debate and it should start on time Friday night.

John McCCain is trying to "default" on his obligation to face the American people and debate his Democratic rival. No More Defaulting!

Debate!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Then decide.............and vote for positvie change!!!!

Yes! Way to go, Obama! That's a presidential decision!

I can only hope Obama decides to stand behind this Friday's debate. I won't speak on whether or not this is another political ploy, but I will say McCain's "need" to push back the debate so that he can focus on the economy issue smells of an inability to multitask, and that's not a character trait I'd like the next President of this country to have.

What is the McCain/Palin compaign running from now?

If McCain is not up to holding a debate because of the financial crisis, how could we count on him to be up to handling more than one thing at a time as president?

sly political move by McCain, even though there is no reason these two candidates cannot walk and chew gum at the same time. If you are going to be prez you are going to have to learn to juggle. We are getting close to the election. There is no reason to post pone the debate.

So McCain who admitted he was weak on economic issues wants to cancel the debate, go to DC and save us all..........what a crock !!

Yeah right! McCain is scared! I think as president you have to be able to multitask! Iknow he's old don't cancel Obama!!!!!!!!! Let's get it done.

McCain's campaign is floundering and this hail mary gimmick is just a desperate attempt to generate something positive for himself. This is the the epitome of hypocrisy when he attempts to sell it as country first.

McCain is a scaredy cat...so much for being such a big tough guy POW!

I have a debate watch party to attend friday......the debate must go on. NO TIME FOR DELAY CHICHEN MCCAIN

I think debates, at this point in the race, are crucial! Yes, things are going pretty badly but that mightn't change much in the next few weeks.

Yeah Well, I doubt Mr McCain is inclined to debate. Especially after his poll numbers fell.

I agree with Obama. This was a political ploy and I didn't buy it. It shows wisdom in going forward. Well done!

McCain is not prepared for Friday's debate and he's very scared of Barack so he came up with an excuse he knew the democrats couldn't turn down. That's how most people will read this.

yeah!!!! McCain's Palinish excuse for avoiding the debate might not work.

Obama don't fall for it! McCain is trying to pull a fast one. We the American people want to hear from both of you and McCain has no back bone or answers to the economic bailout except to bailout his buddies!

Please do not let Senator McCain off the hook. As President he must be able to handle multi-situations and this is great training. Do not fall for this sucker move.

The President is making a speech to the Nation, after all Bush is President not McCain. Don't allow the Republicans to get the upper hand................................

NO DELAY! You can do your civic duty in Congress and still debate the issues............................................

Please Senator Obama, do not fall for this Republican trick.

Why is everyone so upset with MCAIN . You people sounding off with no regard ... no respect .... EVERY ENTRY . If he is making such a blunder you should be happy but you sound more like you are scared .Yes it looks like he made a better discision first ,Get a grip.
Try and keep up Obama ,,,holy one.

I think the debate should go on.
This is a stunt by the mccain camp to delay the debates.
We don't have much time left.
There is nothing the he or Obama can do there that should interfere with the debate!
It's sickening that mccain is useing this as a political ploy and will try to make Obama look like he doesn't care.I'm sure they both care,but mccain has lost all my respect.All of it!
Who the heck suspends their campaign and cancels a debate?!
mccain voted with bush over 90% of the time and wants us to believe he is different!
WAKE UP AMERICA!
DON'T FALL FOR THIS PLOY!
If the debates are canceled there won't be enough time to have them all.

Let BO debate himself.
McCain has his priorities in order it seems.
This should tell you all something significant about the differences in the two candidates. .

Let him debate Biden since the two of them seem to agree on nothing.

McCain is putting his country first and Obama, self.

PLEASE DO IT!!!!! Obama is the one who initiated the call for a bipartisan response Obama (8:30 a.m. phone call). Obama is the one who showed leadership and insight. McCain is trying to steal the credit by trying to one-up Obama with this announcement of a suspension of this campaign before giving the joint statement he agreed to give. IT IS NOTHING MORE THAN A GAME TO THESE PEOPLE. So fine. GAME ON!!!!

NOTE: McCain asked the leader of his party, the President, to call for a meeting at which Obama would need to attend. This is a NAKED POLITICAL PLOY. Nothing more. Both of them can review the proposed bill and vote by proxy. As it is, McCain knows nothing about th eeconomy and wouldn't be contributing to the bill anyway.

McCain wants to postpone the debate because he's not ready. He's using the financial crises as an excuse, knowing that it's an issue everyone is concerned about and people would be willing to support a delay for that reason.

Senile MCCain will do whatever it takes to buy time. Lets face it, he is NOT prepared to face Obama. Next thing GOP will do, is to make lame excuses for Sarah Palin not to debate Joe Biden. This GOP ticket is as pathetic as it can be...

McCain's temperament is really scary to me! Is he going to lead like this, with bold moves every time things go wrong? THis is not wisdom. This is gamble!

Please have the debate!!!!! McShame is trying to run AWAY!!! He's not READY!!!

I dont understand why as candidates they must refrain from debating the issue when that is their most important job.
CNN must modify the debate to be exclusive to the crisis and the two candidates must tell us how they paln to ride it out if they are elected.
There are enough politicians andbaeurocrates in Washington working on the issue.
We have a serious job of electing one of them and MaCain and Obama should tell us how they will fix the probelm. It is more important for them to tell us this at this point than anything else they may do.

Senator Obama, DO NOT JOIN IN THE HOAX!!! John McCane is losing, and his "Rovian" advisors are seeking any distraction – they tried the Palin distraction and it is now going flat. Congressmen and Congress women already acting in the House and Senate will do just fine with the debate on the financial situation. You owe it to the American people to proceed with a legitimate and intelligent Presidential campaign. DO NOT LET THE POLITICAL MANIPULATIONS OF A LOSER DISTRACT YOU FROM THE LEGITIMATE AND IMPORTANT JOB AT HAND – ELECTING A NEW PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES. Go to the debate fully prepared and fully expecting a responsible opponent.

go on with the debate. u don't need to suspend your campain. he's trying to set you up

There's nothing so crucial about this bailout that requires postponing the debates. This is nothing more than McLame's attempt to score political points, distract the voters, and delay his eventual defeat.

Alex
Charlotte

Good! Don't fall for this desperate stunt Obama.

As President you are required to multitask. There is no reason on this good earth to postpone the debate, let alone the campaign. There is nothing McCain can do in Washington. Nothing! If he wants to vote on the bill, then he can get in his jet and be there to vote within hours. If he wants to provide input, he can do that remotely. Or, like a real President would do, he could go to Washington, do what he needs to do, then get back to the campaign trail, then go back and vote.

The American Electorate is not going to fall for this. McCain saw the polls, saw the momentum shift and is trying desperately to get the attention back on him.

Country First - yeah right!

The debate should ABSOLUTELY NOT be delayed. This is McCain once again trying to bully and avoid the press because this week has been horrific for his campaign. This is a very short election season and this is the very first debate between the candidates, it is crucial. There is absolutely no reason that the candidates can’t still hold the debate. This is pure bait and switch.

McCain is trying to paint bullship as "leadership." The debate should go on as scheduled.

2 hours will NOT change what's going to happen on Wallstreet...neither will 1 week. Don't let this worm slime his way out of the debate. Attack now!

Obama inclined to debate... only if they can find a power outlet for his teleprompter.

I agree with, Obama. McCain and Obama can spend the days before and after the debate to deal with this crisis. They have an obligation to speak on the issues and what they plan on doing about them. This is just a ploy for McCain to give himself and Palin time to stall and get ready for the debate because neither one of them are very intelligent. Obama will win and I hope he wins because if not this country will fall from power under McCain.

OBAMA/BIDEN 08

Swap Nights of the Debate with VP Candidates

If McCain wants to help solve our present economic plight instead of debate on Friday night that’s fine. Why don’t the Presidential candidates agree to swap nights with the VP candidates? Biden/Palin debate this Friday and McCain/Obama on October 2nd.

Don't back down Obama- debate this crusty old curmudgeon! McCain is right, the whole mess is historic, now get out there and have the debate and talk about it.....or are you, Mr. McCain, simply ill-prepared and afraid.

Good for you Barack !,don't let MCbush take control of the issue.

Obama will be looked at as more of a fool than ever if he chasticizes McCain for returning to Washington if the economic rescue has not taken place. McCain has already taken the lead by announcing his plan to postpone the debate. If Obama doesn't follow suit he will help seal his own fate!

I do not believe the fate of the country is hanging on whether or not the two candidates take a couple of hours out to debate. If the country is at risk of going under financially because McCain and Obama are out of the loop for a few hours, then the problem is much greater than anyone ever realized. This is completely and obviously an attempt to avoid the debate by the McCain campaign. Suck it up, John. You're going to have to defend yourself against Obama sooner or later, and Palin is going to have to talk to the press sooner or later. Those two events will be the beginning of the end for your campaign (if that begining hasn't already been reached).

OBAMA would be a fool not to debate Mc(I do not have a clue). This looks like another way for Mc(can't stop lying) to try and get out of getting his butt kicked in front of millions. This man has no plan but to run and hide!!!!!

Obama/Biden 08/12

This is a cheap political ploy by McCain.

He's getting killed in the polls on this economic crisis and he wants to be seen as doing ... SOMETHING ... ANYTHING ... to contribute to a solution.

Indepedents will see through this.

Yes, McCain and Obama should make sure they vote on the bailout bill but I don't see a need to suspend the debates.

Obama will have to take the temperature on this one.

Perhaps if McCain had shown his face in the halls of Congress over the past 3 1/2 years his plea to postpone the debate might have some legitimacy. Why is he suddenly so concerned about this nation and its economy. My read is that he is simply an old fool who believes he has the credibility to control the election. Has he been in touch with Justice Scalia?

debate him Obama this is a ploy Republicans are Scared Why did they wait to the polls came out to do this?

Congrats to Obama for standing by his committment to have this first debate...............A man who stands by his word !!!!!

McCain has found an excuse to get out of the debate. He is indicating he may not have the confidence he will be successfull..................

Hopefully the Commission will rightly reject this request !!!

McCain has time to go to Bill Clinton's thing, but not debate for all the American people? If something comes up and they really need him in Washington he can hop on a plane and go. It isn't necessary to postpone the debate.

I say that this is a pathetic political stunt on behalf on the McCain campaign.

McCain is the weaker of the candidates on several fronts, but, most notably, when it comes to the economy this only shows that Obama has the edge in the polls when it comes to this.

McCain is trying to look like a take charge kind of guy when all he is really doing is buying himself time.

I do think that this crisis is certainly crucial, But does not call for a suspension of either campaign, and, most certainly, does not require a delay in the first debate. With only 40 or so days til election day, the debates are crucial. McCain amazes me more and more every day (WEAK ) Let's get on with this debate.

...but not inclined to get into the town-hall-meeting arena. Glad to see where this man's priorities are.

Obama can do what he wants! I respect McCain for realizing this is a crises and calling for bipartisanship. I agree with John–I would rather lose a campaign than lose my home, job and livelihood. People are living in a dreamworld if they do not think this will happen without action from government!

OBAMA FIRST, TAXPAYERS ?

Well, I see that McCain was trying to pull a fast one and avoid a debat on how "National Security" has gotten us in this Economic Crisis.....him and his advisors can't hold a candle when it comes to Obama and his intellect!

Nice Try McSame....I must give you that, nice try. Now Obama is about to whoop you on this issue!

Yet again, the ONLY Real Leader in these elections made the right decision.

Obama is going to follow this time, again. Just give him some time to think it over and to run it by his 300+ advisers.

McCain/Palin 08

First.

This is clearly a gimmick. He is afraid to do the debate. He is slipping in the polls. Have some guts.

Yeah what if they don't reach an agreement. Do you keep postponing everything? The elections? I want a debate!

Thank You Sir Obama.

The debate should definitely go forward. There is no reason for the two candidates to drop everything at the last minute and fly to Washington. They both have advisors on hand keeping them up to date and they can fly back and cast whatever vote is necessary. The only reason to request suspension of the debate, Senator McCain, is that you aren't ready for it.

McCain is exploiting the bailout for political gains. This is the same way erratic behaviour he used to select his running mate. I think Obama will accept to this deal but should blast McCain outright for this cynical move. He is trying to stop Obama' s momentum. Sad!

What do these two things have to do with each other? Is one party trying to manipulate and blackmail Congress? What do people in the Republican party and McCain stand to gain from this? Why would we want to stifle debate on this issue before everyone knows all about the plan? After the schools and cities have gone to much expense and preparation, to postpone this debate would be a disservice to them and to us.

MCCAIN PLAYING POLITICS. MCCAIN INSULTED THE AMERICAN VOTERS WITH PICKING PALIN AND NOW WITH THIS STUNT.

I don't buy it one bit, only McCain will benifit if Obama cancels his campaign. Stop travelling and going to Washington is a great plan, but don't stop the ads and fundraising. Canceling the debate only helps McCain buy more time to memorize those Karl Rove canned answers.

I think we should go on with the debate we have waited to long to see what they are thinking. Also, I would like to hear more from more the African American reporters. I would like to see Michael Baisden or other radio host on the talk shows. I would like to hear the minority views!!!

And I suppose this is McCain's contingency plan? 'If they don’t do what I want… I’ll hold my breath'. He is such a pretentious numb-skull.

Obama/Biden '08

Senator Obama, please do not fall for this OKIE DOKE by McStain, it is just another stupid game, we are fed up with him and Palins stupid tactics.

Here goes McCain's tricks again!!!! The economy has been bad for weeks but he is going to throw a hissy fit and try to seem like debating is not appropriate.It's US the american people who need to hear the fact on Friday..Stop wimping out!!!!! Vote Obama 08!!!!

There you GO OBAMA!
Not bending yourself for the trick played by your opponent just because his ratings were down with obvious fact that he knows little about economy and with the company he lingers with he proves to the America that he will NEVER get it !

Face off your opponent in the midst of crisis and talk in public rather than hiding behind the CEO's and special interest groups behind the closed door.

Hope McCAIN accepts the challenge and accept the defeat.

The debate should go on. It is apparent from news conferences that MCKeating knows nothing at all about the crisis or how to remedy the situation. He will try to use delaying the debate tactically to better his debate prospect.

McBush is not working on the giveaway program anyway so I expect to see him on Friday defending the indefensible, attacking Obama and offering no real solution to the myriad Bush induced crises we now face.

One other point–Congress and all of the so called oversight committees are absolutely worthless. Everyone is asleep at the wheel.

McCain knows he'll lose the debate, that's why he wants to suspend it!

You go Senator Obama. Debate is at night time. What can you change with the economy by cancelling the debate. BUT you sure can change the voters minds. Don't let McSame put you to shame.

go barack, go

I think Gramps McCain is using the bailout as an excuse to get out of the debate. He knows that in an environment under which he has limited control, he'll come out looking bad.

He owes it to the American people to go on with the debate as scheduled. Aftrer all, he hasn't been bothered by his chronic absenteeism since the campaign started....

GOOD FOR HIM... THEY NEED TO KEEP TO THE SCHEDULE AND DEBATE.
McCain is scared and that is the only reason he want's to postpone.

Senator Obama is once again showing calm, level-headed leadership while McCain plays political game with our lives!

Why does this old man mcsane always try to tell Obama what to do and where he should go. I think it's time Obama tell this old geeser where to go, LOL. Obama make your own decision to debate or not, don't listen to this lying old man.

Obama/Biden

Obama is making the right decision!!

That´s the way it should be.... this is the problem for the sitting president and not the candidates....
This is something the whole country and the world been waiting for...He´s just trying to score some points....

um. I doubt that he is scared of debated Obama. I am sure he has many years of debating.

What is wrong with you haters? Don't you want to see your leaders in action trying to "solve" a problem for a change instand of creating them? Maybe you it you Obamabots who are afraid because Obama didn't acting first because he is too interested in winning an election that to show up to his current job.

Mccain is a joke. He will have no impact on what is going on in DC. He quickly came out with a statement when it was the Obama camp that called him at 8.30 this morning to quietly release a joint statement about the economic situation and not make a statement like he did.
Now he wants to suspend the debate, come on McCain are you scared, this is the time the people need to hear from both of you on how you will control this during your stay at the white house.

You were in DC last in April and Obama in July, whay do you think you will be able to do there other than create another politcal photo-op.

Good! It should take place. McSame can't multitask?

It's not like Congress is going to work deep into the night. There's no reason the two of them can't sit down for 90 minutes in Mississippi after spending the day working in D.C.

Work to solve the crisis and debate everything that evening.

When the phone call comes at 3AM, you can't just call a time-out. McCain is going to have to learn how to do two things at once if he thinks he can be President.

Perhaps McCain should send Palin while he tends to the Economy and does the job he was elected to do. Obama could vote"present" and be done with it. Palin and Obama can both operate a "blackberry" so it should be an even debate.

THE DEBATE SHOULD GO AS PLANNED!!!! THAT COWARD IS RUNNING SCARED ABOUT NOW!!!! THEY BOTH HAVE PRIVATE JETS TO GET TO DC!!! VOTE AND THEN LEAVE!!!! THEY CAN'T DO ANYTHING ELSE!!! LET THE CURRENT ADMINISTRATION THAT PUT US IN THIS MESS!!!!! CARRY ON!!!!! MCCAIN IS SHOWING THAT HE'S NOT PRESIDENTIAL MATERIAL !!! IF HE CAN'T HANDLE THIS WHAT WILL HE SAY WHILE IN THE PRESIDENTS OFFICE!!!! HE'S JUST PATHETIC!!!!!!!!

way to go obama. do not let him for the hook!!! stick it to him and let us with this election

I am a indepentent voter that will vote for obama/biden. the bush admin really screw this country over with onlt 8-years. I voted for g.w.bush and I am sorry I did.

PLEASE debate!

Do not step down!

So because we're in a "historic" crisis we have to put the country on hold? To solve what?

McCain what are you going to solve by prostponing the debate?

We have to get on with this election / campaign!

Debate!!

at this rate: Obama 08!!!

Do not suspend the debate!!!!

Obama..please do not fall for the trick.......deflect, detract, digress. Go to the debate and share your views on all topics. PLEASE! McCain is scared and all of a sudden the economy is an issue. This is BS.

Kudos to Sen. McCain for truly putting America first.

As a Democrat I am ASHAMED that our nominee would rather debate than fix this problem.

Sen. Obama it's time to stop the political theater and roll up your sleeves and work with Sen. McCain and the rest of congress so that we can put this financial crisis to a stop.

Your delay only makes you look like you care about yourself more than America.

So who do you care about more....the POLLS....or America?

Mr. Obama do not fall for the game. They have enough people there in Washington to include the current president and vice that need to handle their own mess. DO NOT STOP THE DEBATE

NO McCAIN
NO PALIN
NO WAY

OBAMA/BIDEN 08/12

If they change the debate from foreign affairs to the economic issues, then the debate should continue. It does not make sense to debate on the foreign affairs right now.

Even with Mccain and Obama not around, there are still 98 senators and 435 representatives that are "hard at work" trying fix our economy, so run debate! This is just cheap cop out because Mccain is not ready to debate and the economy is his achilles heel!

Please don't suspend your campaign Obama. That will be the BIGGEST mistake that you can make. Bush will remain world president forever.

The sign of a true leader, Obama undersatands that the poeple want to hear what the two canidates have to say and what they would do. We already know what the Bush administartion and the for that matter the entire congress would do, who trusts them to make a good decision at this point, they haven't made one so far!

I disagree with McCain that the debate is less than important than the economic crisis. Indeed, it is more important than ever that the public get to hear the views of each candidate so we can make an informed choice about the next president that will be leading us through this mess.

Very good move Obama. Don't fall for desparate tricks from the other side.

mccain suddenly now acknowleges the instabilty economy becauseamericans arent as simpleminded but where are these empty words and action of care 8months ago-there is nothing wrong in using change to promote your career if you have evidence of change in your career there is something wrong in using your military record as a shield from deserved scrutiny

Obama should not cave in to McCain on the debates. The American people deserve and eagerly waiting to see this debate now; not when McCain feels like it.

please barack
lets all calm down and do the right thing here .
this could mess up are country for a long time hast is not an option do the right thing for the american people . how about this attach a rider that says all the ajustable rates out there are to be put in a 50 or 60 year loan so the people in the houses can stay and no more loans out side of fixed loans period and long one s so the people can buy home for god sakes thanks hope some one reads this
jerry

What can't both Presidential nominees agree to work together on the legislation for solving the financial crisis (as requested initially by Obama) and still campaign?

Shouldn't a capable leader be able to handle more than thing at a time?

Suggestion: Change the subject of the debate to the economy and the location to Washington DC.

McCain/McSame/McBush McPack it McUp John McCain is a whiny loser.

We noticed that Mr. McCain wants to suspend everything except FUNDRAISING????

Oh, shall the newly annointed Messiah be so inclined as to arrive for the debate this Friday? Hmph.

How is Obama going to keep the Obamabots from waking up from his hypnotic spells if he actually has to show up for work? He hasn't been there in 2 years, does he need a map to get there? Perhaps someone would be so 'inclined' as to escort the Messiah to his work place tomorrow?

McCain knows he'll lose the debate, that's why he wants to suspend it!

Let me get this straight. The Obama campaign called the McCain campaign at 08:30am suggesting a joint statement. McCain returned the call at 2:30pm. McCain seized the opportunity to grandstand before both campaigns had a chance to release a joint statement. There is something 'fishy' about the way McCain is running his campaign.

Let's hope that if McCain backs out they'll let Obama debate Nader or Bob Barr.

Posponing the debate or campaign will not bring order in Congress. Had McSAME had the leadership we would not be in this soup today!!

John McCain can not delay and take the high road after promising to stay in IRAQ for another 100 years. Who will pay for the McSAME plans?

Campaign sources ACTUALLY said that Obama can "do both," as in go to Washington, do what is required on the bailout, and STILL debate.

I like the idea of a president that can multitask, don't you?

Mccain is a bum,

I am not stupid stop trying to pander me.

He's probably got his campaign doing some quick polling to see which route will be more politically expedient.

You cannot stop our government. You cannot stop the process of picking the next politician. There was a depression and people were jumping out buildings and we still had an election. There was a terrorist attack and then two wars and we still had our election process. This is some fragnaggle bull. I have never seen such a disgrace. I think his campaign manager is about to be arrested and he wants to take the focus off of that. This is just disrespectable to our whole system.

Obama should not concede to McCain's plan to suspend the debate. It is a ploy to make McCain appear to look like a leader when in fact, he is not.
I am really disappointed in McCain. I have heard of ways of chickening out but this takes the cake. The country has more than enough intellects working on the problem and his 'going to Washington' wouldn't make a difference. As citizens of this country, we need to see both candidates debate on issues that would affect our future.
Postponing the debates is the wrong thing to do at this time.

They should debate as planned. This is another distraction strategy for McCain camp as they sweat about their inevitable defeat in the debate with the dems.

the debate must go on!

Stop running scared McCain.

Where else would it be better then to be in front of America being asked questions.

that's right, obama

don't fall for the okey doke

I'm confused...Why would they consider postponing the debate, when this debate is suppose to be about foreign policy. I could understand if the debate was about the economy.

MCCAIN another political gimmick the debates are not until 900 pm there are other ways mccain can be in washington conference calls etc

THE DEBATE SHOULD GO FORWARD....

Absolutely, the debate should go on as scheduled. Evidently, crooked McCain is unprepared and he is using this as a means to get out of answering questions. What a two faced coward.

The only thing Obama can do is agree. He cannot debate by himself.
However he should let it be known it was John that chickened out.
Or he McCain thinks more of the economy than the troops and cost of the war.

Obama wants to debate this week - before he forgets everything.

The debate should go as scheduled. Neither McCain nor Obama need to be present to move this situation along. McCain is just trying to lay low while he sinks in the polls.

McCain hasn't been in Washington since April to vote and NOW he feels he must run off to inject himsslef into the bull$!@& and run away from the 2 to 3 hour debate.

the election is near, we need to hear both sides on the same stage to make a more informed decision, hear that McCain, informed decision!

It is understandable that McCain wants to suspend his campaign, but the suspension of the debate as well is unrelated, and instead he should be looking to make the debates much-more economy based, if the economy is indeed his main concern.

i agreeeeeeee! we wanna see this. Sen McClam, hadn't voted in congress since Apr 08, Sen Obama, Jul 08 Let's do it Cheers!

Obama cares only for himself. Obama doesn't even care for his brother who lives in a hut in Kenya on a $1 a month.

...postpone the election then, if there is some "unexpected" financial crisis in the future then? this is BALONEY. The American people want to see these candidates!!!!!!

mccain suddenly now acknowleges issies about the economy becauseamericans arent as simpleminded but where are these empty words and action of care 8months ago-there is nothing wrong in using change to promote your career if you have evidence of change in your career there is something wrong in using your military record as a shield from deserved scrutiny

The debate should not be cancelled. The American public deserves to hear these two debate especially given the critical juncture that we are in as a Country. It is obviously a guise by McCain to postpone the debate because he is not prepared and can not defend what 8 years of Bush has done to America.

Thank you Senator Obama. Enough said.

Good for you Obama . . don't fall for Mc Cain Rovian Tactics ...

Ofcourse McCain wants to delay the debate because he doesn't want to focus on the issues. Why am I not surprised? The sad thing is that this is acceptable to the racists in this country who have decided that their hatred of African Americans must overshadow their own best interest.

The debates SHOULD go on. This is a stall tactic by the McCain campaign. This crisis isn't new. How is a man who has already said he doesn't know much about the economy going to fix this?

This is the weakest stunt McCain has attempted since picking Palin.

"I want a time out."

"My dog ate my homework."

"I need a nap."

If ANYTHING during the course of this election cycle deserves a full debate, between the candidates, in front of the American people... IT'S THIS!!!

Go get him Barack!

The McCain Clowns just not ready for the debate that Obama is gonna HAMMER them on.

Wake up AMERICA
Obama '08-12

Good idea! Osama Obama can debate himself. He can flipflop from one side to the other.

YES!!! Please, Obama, don't let McCain pull the wool over America's eyes. He can "suspend his campaign" if he wants, but he can certainly spend a few hours in front of the American public on Friday night.

Don't let him get away with this stunt, please.

I fail to understand how one evening of debate could cause more issues with the ecomony.

And now we find out that it was OBAMA who initiated the discussion early this morning... while McCain tries to take credit for it... jeez, McCain must be a limbo dancer (How low can you go?).

Leaders all over the world multitask. No way should Obama agree to postponing the debate. Weren't the 2004 debates held with two wars raging? Duh!

We know why McCain really wants to postpone the debate........Palin's not prepared and he'd bashed on the economy.

Great! We the people will like to hear what the candidates have to say and how they intend to govern and stire this country and the economy in the right direction.