September 26, 2008
Posted: September 26th, 2008 02:11 PM ET

From
McCain and Obama will square off Friday night.
McCain and Obama will square off Friday night.

ABOARD THE ELECTION EXPRESS

OXFORD, Mississippi (CNN) - On our entire way down here on the bus, we’ve been stopping to encourage people to think about what would happen if, on the night of the first debate, they were somehow allowed to stand up and ask John McCain and Barack Obama any question they wanted.

Jim Lehrer of PBS will be the only person asking questions tonight– if, at the end of this bizarre campaign week, the debate takes place at all.

Yet the questions we’ve found by the side of the road– questions devised spontaneously by the people with whom we’ve talked– have something about them that is intriguing. Maybe it’s because the men and women who want to ask them had never considered what it would be like to speak directly to the next president.

Full Story

Filed under: Bob Greene • Election Express • debate


Melly   September 26th, 2008 2:57 pm ET

WHY DID YOU GO TO WASHINGTON AND SUSPENDED YOUR CAMPAIGN?

WHY DID YOU CHOOSE UNQUALIFIED SARA PALIN?

Gayle Cary   September 26th, 2008 2:56 pm ET

Can anyone tell me why no one has come up with the idea of giving the $7 Bil DIRECTLY to the AMERICAN TAXPAYERS??
Can you imagine how much a $10k – 20k check to every American taxpayer making less than $250k/year would stimulate the economy? People could catch up on their bills! It would give those facing foreclosure enough money to catch up on delinquent payments and the time necessary to refinance their mortgages with these companies that are going belly-up, thereby contributing to the resolution of the mortgage crisis. People that don't need help catching up on bills would BUY STUFF! REBUILD the economy from the BOTTOM UP instead of filling up the pockets of Wall Street, which has been proven to NOT trickle down.

Tired of the Liberal Spin!!!   September 26th, 2008 2:56 pm ET

Mr. Obama, Can you please point out one thing that you are FOR, instead of pointing out how you are against EVERYTHING that McCain and Palin are doing? Or, is your entire campaign going to be based on your putting down the other side and not making any statements of what YOU will do if elected?

G.I. Castillo-Feliu/Rock Hill, SC   September 26th, 2008 2:56 pm ET

Perhaps there could be 1) a brief political science quiz for the candidates, for example: the names of political heads of government from countries such as Spain, Venezuela, Chile, Germany, the Russian Federation, France, Pakistan, China, Iran (even if the correct pronunciation of this last one is a bit off), and other countries that are featured daily on the world stage, for example; and 2) a brief geography quiz that shows (or doesn't show) some knowledge of the world's continents (for example, Spain is NOT part of Latin America).

Andy - Atlanta, GA   September 26th, 2008 2:56 pm ET

Sarah Palin views the world as simply good guys vs bad guys. How do each of you view international conflicts and america's role in world politics.

Lee   September 26th, 2008 2:56 pm ET

I would ask "why have both campaigns gone into the gutter?" Taxpayers want staight talk and answers not childish gibberish

Anonymous   September 26th, 2008 2:56 pm ET

IF WE GET THAT 3:AM PHONE CALL WILL PALIN RESPONSE BE LET ME GET BACK TO YOU ON THAT????

pa.joe   September 26th, 2008 2:55 pm ET

McCain – Why has your campaign waged a war of lies and division on the American voters?

Diane Dagenais Turbide   September 26th, 2008 2:55 pm ET

You were asked during the faith forum what is your biggest morale failure. We all know the answer. In this election, what is your biggest failure so far!

Maureen / Newman, California   September 26th, 2008 2:54 pm ET

I would ask to each: (two – sorry)

When do you think this economic crisis really began? And how is the economic crisis related to National Security?

Faithe, VA   September 26th, 2008 2:54 pm ET

Mr. McCain and the Republican National Party--So you mean to tell me that you are willing to spend $700Billion+ on the war in Iraq but you don't want to spend $700Billion to bail out American banks, save American jobs, Help American homeowners and protect the american economy????? Wow!!!

Andy - Atlanta, GA   September 26th, 2008 2:54 pm ET

Q: Please explain in detail your typical DECISION MAKING PROCESS, from the time the problem is presented, until a solution is reached.

tanyia   September 26th, 2008 2:54 pm ET

I would ask McCain what in the world was you thinking when you picked Palin as your running mate?

Dawnci   September 26th, 2008 2:53 pm ET

Senator Mc Cain, define your definition of a campaign suspension? Did you actually suspend yours over the last few days?

Michael Bishop   September 26th, 2008 2:53 pm ET

If I could ask Obama one question it would be.
Voting present is it a way for you not taking a side one way or another on a issue. Or is voting present the same as voting no in your home state. And if that is the case why were you the only present vote in the issue of Porn establishments being so close to my childerns public schools?

Tony   September 26th, 2008 2:52 pm ET

I WOUDL ASK OBAMA WHY HE HASN'T MADE MORE OUT OF THE FACT THAT THE NEXT PRESIDENT WILL MORE THAN LIKELY GET TO NAME AS MANY AS 3 SUPREME COURT JUSTICES.

I WOULD ASK MCCAIN HOW HIS TRIP TO THE FUTURE WAS WHERE HE WON THE DEBATE BEFORE HE HAD IT!

psittacines   September 26th, 2008 2:51 pm ET

John,

Both your father and grandfather got to be high ranking officials in the U.S. military. How does this influence your desire to be Commander in Chief??? :)

Janet Jacme   September 26th, 2008 2:51 pm ET

One question for Senator McCain-

Sarah Palin: Dude, are you SERIOUS?!?

kevin   September 26th, 2008 2:51 pm ET

To Obama,

Without using the words: UH, UH, Change, Change, George Bush, why didn't you help/fix this crisis?

LaJuan   September 26th, 2008 2:51 pm ET

September 26th, 2008 2:22 pm ET

I would like to ask Obama to tell me one thing he has done to help the U.S. economy since he has been in the senate and why should we the american voters trust him with our lives when he and all the voters know he does not have the experience to deal with the problems we are facing.

Liz,

Do you really ,really think that Palin is ready to deal with the problems we are facing, what a joke!!! Wake up America....a black man has a good chance of becoming our next President and some of white america can't let go of their hateful prejudices to elect Obama. so if you want more of the same vote for McCain and after he dies in office you will have your perfect little white american female president who is convinced that since Alaska is so close to Russia that gives her foreign affairs experience!!! Stupid is as stupid does

OBAMA/BIDEN 08

Dawn   September 26th, 2008 2:50 pm ET

What did you learn regarding your opponent's leadership skills or lack of which ones during the last few days?

Buckeye Voter   September 26th, 2008 2:50 pm ET

Why should home values be kept artificially high? Are those who are currently trying to save enough money to responsibly buy their first home less important than those who already own one?

Janiece   September 26th, 2008 2:50 pm ET

McCain: Where is the McCain from the 2000 election people loved. He would have made the right choice for America in his decision for his running mate, not what he thought was the right politial choice.

Obama: What can I do as an American to help the rest of the world feel good about America again?

len2052   September 26th, 2008 2:50 pm ET

I would ask them both- When are they going to revise the Bankruptcy laws so the folks on "Main St" can also get some relief?

Jeff   September 26th, 2008 2:50 pm ET

I would like to ask Obama if it is possible for him to leave his ego at the door and think about the good of the nation for a change. Oh, but then I'd probably have to listen to another Obama fairy tale and I've heard enough of those.

American   September 26th, 2008 2:49 pm ET

Q:

Why is in our Election Israel Comes 1st then USA???

CNN Post My Question....!!!!!!!

drew   September 26th, 2008 2:49 pm ET

How often have you lied since your election campaign for 2008 began? Then cite all the lying ad's for both candidates when they say 0.

concerned coloradan   September 26th, 2008 2:49 pm ET

To both candidates: What will you do globally to counter the devistating effects of global warming?
And to McCain: How can you justify Palin's denial of man's culpability
in the problem?

Ready on Day 2?   September 26th, 2008 2:49 pm ET

Based on her recent comments, many Americans question the suitability of your Vice Presidential selection.

What was it about Sarah Palin's experience that led you to believe she is ready to step in as President should something happen to you on January 21, 2008?

Vanda   September 26th, 2008 2:48 pm ET

if McCain become president and die tomorrow what and how would palin do for us with no presidente experience?

bill   September 26th, 2008 2:48 pm ET

I would ask Mccain if you feel the surge has worked then why is suicide bombers still killing people,why cant the people of Iraq go out on the town like we do an America without having to worry about being blownup

M   September 26th, 2008 2:48 pm ET

John McCain, this is crucial to my voting decision:

You plan to balance the budget (great idea!) simply by eliminating wasteful spending. My question is: exactly which programs will you cut? I need to know before I decide. Will you cut welfare? Government jobs? Infrastructure funding for bridges and roads? Music programs? Wildlife research? I agree that we can eliminate plenty of things, but you've never specified what – I can't find it on your website – and your definition of wasteful spending will decide my vote.

Diamond   September 26th, 2008 2:47 pm ET

I would ask Mccain, about Iraq What are we fighting for? He says that he wont withdraw unless we have won in Iraq,So my question would be: What do you consider a win In Iraq, and why are we there.

Bill Charlotte,NC   September 26th, 2008 2:46 pm ET

I would ask, "John, there is not a deal in Washington; so, why are you here? Is this the way your presidency will be run?
Throw down the gauntlet, then cower when the other side doesn't blink. If you can't handle Obama, how in the world are you going to stand up to Russia?

Chuck   September 26th, 2008 2:45 pm ET

Oooppssss, one more.

I would ask both candidates (after both have stated in response to previous questions that we need more jobs and better health care and better education and improved infrastructure and tax relief, etc.) to please take their responses beyond the typical stump speech generalizations and take 5 minutes on each issue to give us in "detail" how they would create more jobs, improve health care and education, improve the infrstructure and provide tax relief.

Anonymous   September 26th, 2008 2:45 pm ET

MCCAIN WHY DID YOU CHOOSE SUCH A DUMB RUNNING MATE?

Marc PDX   September 26th, 2008 2:45 pm ET

I'd ask Obama to name just one specific thing that he'd do to fix the economy. Just one thing. But it must be specific – not hogwash rhetoric. The economy is supposed to be his strong suit. I won't even make it hard by asking a foreign policy question. Just one specific thing on the economy.

My bet is that all he can say is he will raise some taxes and redistribute the wealth. As simple (and simpleminded as that. Nothing more. That's my question and that's my bet.

Joe in NYC   September 26th, 2008 2:45 pm ET

To Barack:

Question 1:

What did your momma force feed you when you were a baby ,Law books and Silver Spoons?

Question 2:
How can I get my son to be just like You?

Concerned Parent   September 26th, 2008 2:45 pm ET

I would like to ask the canidates:
How will you improve the weak education system for my 3rd grade son and for my 9th grade daughter? I would like them to be as knowlegdgable about Math and Science as the rest of the world.
and i would like to ask the candidtates what are their plans for the exploding college tuition my daughter is a junior in a state Univ. and her tuition has consistently went up by over 30%. Help me understand how you will make my childrens' future better.

American   September 26th, 2008 2:44 pm ET

McCain: DId you really "suspend" your compaign????

Karen   September 26th, 2008 2:44 pm ET

Does McCain has a presidential-material-alike ability to make good judgement?

Look his decisions: hiring Palin and unilaterially canceling national debate.

Independent but Leaning   September 26th, 2008 2:43 pm ET

That one question from SiSi Amani is not a proper presidential debate question.

Both schools and crime prevention are state matters, not federal government matters. There has already been a case originating here in Texas in which a federal law regarding weapons in schools was held unconstitutional as an infringement on state sovereignty.

People need to understand the roles and constitutional limitations of federal power.

Why don't ask about the federal law that prohibits citizens from communicating directly with foreign governments for the purpose of undermining federal government relations with a foreign sovereign. I'd love to hear how the candidates would effetuate that law. Obama.

C   September 26th, 2008 2:43 pm ET

FOR MCCAIN: Would you throw a "Hail Mary" every time you find yourself in a bind as President???

Sarah Bell   September 26th, 2008 2:43 pm ET

John McCain, what's in this for you? What prize is so big at your old age, that you would sell your soul to win an election?? What's it like to even sell your soul? Just curious....

Orlando   September 26th, 2008 2:42 pm ET

Senator McCain,

Being that you are Military veteran why is it that your record has shown you more against Veteran issues than Senator Obama? The Veteran grade you at 20% and Senator 80%, 20 being the lowest. Please explain.

Andy - Atlanta, GA   September 26th, 2008 2:42 pm ET

I like most of the questions suggested so far, but would love to see them answered while the candidates are hooked up to lie detectors!

v harden   September 26th, 2008 2:41 pm ET

Why is your campaign so heavily guarding your VP pick? Are you ashamed of what she might or might not say? It seems sexist to treat her like a helpless woman; which she is not... maybe quite abit unaware, but not helpless.

Listen to Our Children   September 26th, 2008 2:41 pm ET

To Senator McCain and Senator Obama – If you had a taxpayer dollar to spend on one of these three issues, what would it be spent on?

1. Education – Listen to Our Children
2. Infrastructure
3. National Defense

J Watts   September 26th, 2008 2:41 pm ET

When I lose my home, can I have one of yours?

Nicole In NE   September 26th, 2008 2:40 pm ET

For both: Why are the campaigns going so negative when both promised to keep it respectful?

Chuck   September 26th, 2008 2:40 pm ET

I forgot, one more question.

I would also ask McCain if he too could see Russia from his back door.

CJG   September 26th, 2008 2:40 pm ET

For John McCain
What happened to the John we use to know the one with integrity?
Why did you really pick Palin , and were you forced to do it ?
Does it not scare the crap out of you to think of this lady so close to the Presidency and that will be what everyone remembers about you , not all the good you did for years , but one gigantic error in judgement at age 72!

For Obama ;

Why did you not pick Hillary for VP (truthfully)
And How do you plan on doing everything you promised?
How do you plan on getting the stigma of the Bush years erased from the way the rest of the world sees us?

rice, bryan   September 26th, 2008 2:40 pm ET

i would ask mcbush, when you came into washington, did you remember where office was? second, are you going to go second all night, so you can mirror obama's answers?

Tired   September 26th, 2008 2:39 pm ET

McCain: After you and your Party have spent the last 30 years to create the do-whatever-you-want rules governing Wall Street, as well as many other sectors of industry, why on Earth should we believe your current stance on the economic situation?

Obama: Pakistan is much more of a threat to global security than Iran. You constantly talk about going after the terrorists where they really are. Will you go after them and the corrupt government there militarily? If not, why not?

Obama/Biden 100%   September 26th, 2008 2:39 pm ET

My question to both candidates:

Do you believe that in America, a candidate for POTUS who happens to be a black man, has to be three times smarter and work three times harder than an opponent who happens white to acheive the same degree of success?
If not, why?
if so, please explain.

Ellie from PA   September 26th, 2008 2:39 pm ET

To McCain:

I always respected you because I believed you had integrity. I am amazed at all the lies that has come from your camp and I believe that the people he has surrounded himself with are the ones responsible. How close are they reviewing the type of information that Senator Mccain's camp is feeding the media.

Michael in Houston   September 26th, 2008 2:38 pm ET

For Obama: How could you say you are for the little man, middle income America and main street but endorse a coporate welfare check for Wall Street?

For McCain: Seeing that you have been a Maverick all of your career, how do you feel about the Republican base Hi-jacking your morals and ideas and forcing you to change what you have worked on so hard for your entire career, your Maverick ideology.

These are real question folks. It's time to stop with the pot shots and start asking these real questions. The McLie's and Nobama's cracks are not going to make a difference in our future. These two are politicains, willing to say what they think what we want to hear to get elected. I hope the media, especially in these debates start asking the hard questions, as Katie has done with Palin. If these questions are too fluffy, I'm turning the T.V. off.

Isaac   September 26th, 2008 2:38 pm ET

I would ask McCain – If you know that you have no idea how the economy is working, why pretend as if you do.

Rex Savage   September 26th, 2008 2:38 pm ET

I would like to know, once and for all with all this bs of 'party unity' aside, why McCain kowtowed so mightily to the Bush/Rove organization after the dirty trick machine thoroughly denegrated him personally, politically, morally, and ethically in the 2000 campaign. Then – 200 – 2001 – was the time to distance himself from the 'evil'; now it is far too late and he is forever tainted with the stench of Rove.

chris   September 26th, 2008 2:38 pm ET

question to both;

after the bailout is approved, what do you plan on doing w/ all the empty houses? whos going to buy them? will they just sit there empty and bring down my property value, or will you allow the same no good schumks who couldn't afford it in the beginning to move back in?

chris in houston

Election Watcher   September 26th, 2008 2:37 pm ET

To both of them:
Why not skip the next Presidential debate and let your wives Jell-o wrestle.

Raj Raina   September 26th, 2008 2:37 pm ET

I really like to get a better idea about their world view and deep idelogical believies by asking the following question:
Which is better - A world where every one earns $40000 or a one in which three-fourths of the people earn $100,000 and one-fourth earn 20,000?

Eli   September 26th, 2008 2:37 pm ET

I'd ask McCain how people who have survived cancer (as he has), have chronic illnesses or otherwise require expensive treatment and can't get coverage at any price would get insured under his plan.

I'd ask Obama how mothers who can't even afford to insure themselves are expected to have their children immediately covered at birth, as mandated under his plan.

As a follow up, I'd ask McCain whether he would consider a government program to insure people who can prove (by multiple rejection letters) that they can't get insurance, and I'd ask Obama whether he would consider a government program to cover newborns up to the age of three months (so that their mothers could get them insured to meet his mandate.)

sandee in Portland   September 26th, 2008 2:37 pm ET

Senator McCain, how are you going to increase well paying jobs in our country instead of the minimum wage jobs that are being created? How are you going to get the American corporations that moved out of our country because of tax benefits back to the US? Senator McCain, what bill have you initiated in the past year or two that actually helps our economy and country? You've been in the Senate for 20+ years. What have you done to help us during that time?

It is mainly because of politicians like you that I feel there should also be a term limit on congress and the senate members.

Suzie Ashton   September 26th, 2008 2:37 pm ET

I would like to ask if indeed Obama is the anti-christ as is talked about in the Book of Revelations. It seems to fit.

Frustrated   September 26th, 2008 2:37 pm ET

I would ask Obama:

Have you ever been frustrated by the fact that you can't openly say that you think that McCain's Clinton ads were pure political strategy and that he really didn't care about Hillary and her supporters, just their votes, you couldn't openly say that McCain ads in general were false and taken out of context, you couldn't openly say that McCain only suspended his campaign to try and look patriotic, because you knew that if you did, you would have been critized, even though you were right and said everything every one was thinking of

D. A. Reuter, Bremerton, WA   September 26th, 2008 2:37 pm ET

I have two questions.

1. Where in the United States Constitution does it authorize anyone to cut taxes, therefore, eliminating revenue that is needed to fund programs necessary to the nation and its citizens?

2. Why does the Presdient and Members of Congress force the tax paying citizens of the United State to pay for their health care benefits and when it come to reciprocate (national health care), they behave like ingrates?

Shirley-Ohio   September 26th, 2008 2:37 pm ET

My question is to McCain and what I would ask him is "Do you think the American people are stupid? Because the circus act that you pulled by suspened your campagine and not wanting to debate is as bogus as it gets.

America think for you   September 26th, 2008 2:37 pm ET

$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.

AC Thomas   September 26th, 2008 2:37 pm ET

Senator McCain: On Wednesday (9/24/08), when you were asked “how are you planning on reducing the deficit, and fix the current financial crisis without Tax increase?” one of the first things you said was that you will cut some of the defense budget, “What specific defense budget are you going to cut, and how will this effect our national security?”

AC Thomas, Des Moines IA

I'm Just a Man...   September 26th, 2008 2:37 pm ET

I'd really, really, really like if you asked John McCain about why his campaign placed ads proclaiming his victory in the debate before it happened.

Esther   September 26th, 2008 2:37 pm ET

Americans, be very very careful. McCain is humorous and has plenty of those sound bites of laughter to throw in during the debate so that you lose your head. Remember Bush was similar and that way he deceived americans twice but he has turned out to be an empty suit. We dont need the brash jester as President no more. Americans, your future is on the line. Obama is the steady hand in the storm as has been made obvious esp. this past few days with McCain dashing about like a confused suit getting in the way of serious minded people. Americans wake up!

The Nightingale Sings in Berkley Square   September 26th, 2008 2:36 pm ET

to obama - let's look at you resume? pretty shallow don't you say?

Didn't Hillary say you gave a speech once and didn't Biden say you were not ready?

Hmmmm good feedback from your own party bigwigs.

America is watching   September 26th, 2008 2:36 pm ET

? 2 McCain: Did you get angry when the president of Pakistan called Gov. Palin gorgeous?

Arden   September 26th, 2008 2:36 pm ET

I just heard that McCain arrived in Mississippi claiming a "victory:. Over waht? He is so full of himself that he doesn't even realize that he screwed up all the work that had been done. He is not the victor over anything.

Independent but Leaning   September 26th, 2008 2:35 pm ET

I would love to hear Obama explain to us why he tried to undermine the current administration's negotiations with the Iraqi leadership on US troop draw-downs.

Why is this candidate who has been campaigning in the US to end the war and get our troops out of there privately trying to convince Iraq to not agree to a draw-down until the new administration takes office in January?

The answer is as obvious as the nose on my face, but I'd still like to hear Obama stutter and stammer through an explanation in front of the nation.

Olivia   September 26th, 2008 2:35 pm ET

I would ask Obama..............

About the company Acorn, who has been accused of voter fraud in the past and now, and that since he was there attorney in the past, what his affiliation is with them now. Also, why is there a clause in this bailout plan presented by the democrats for Acorn to recieve funds.

I would TELL McCain......that I understand why he went to the hill to help if he could. I am an independent, and I thank him for his efforts even though many will ridicule him for it. No one should doubt that McCain is working for the people.

Marco Diplomati   September 26th, 2008 2:35 pm ET

Would either of you gentlemen consider appointing the other to your cabinet in a demonstration of collaborative bi-partisanship in 2009?

And if so, in which position(s) or cabinet office(s)?

Molly   September 26th, 2008 2:35 pm ET

To obama – WHY are you even running for Presient of the USA – we all know you are NOT qualified to lead our country.

Chad   September 26th, 2008 2:34 pm ET

I would ask Obama if he is getting dizzy from talking in circles. He never really answers the questions. Because he has no answers?? Just the typical say what the people want to hear?

Israel   September 26th, 2008 2:34 pm ET

My question would be . . .

Should America give Israel a blank check to attack Iran for whatever reason Israel deems sufficient?

107 yr old white woman   September 26th, 2008 2:34 pm ET

Ask McCain why he didn't choose Katie Couric as his VP. She sure is a lot smarter than that trigger happy Palin.

mark   September 26th, 2008 2:34 pm ET

McCain why did you vote fo a war in Iraq when they had nothing to do with 9/11?

Stefano   September 26th, 2008 2:34 pm ET

To both candidates: "Do you agree that the point is not to have a president able to manage the Iraq work, but a president who is able to bring us back from there?"

Greg   September 26th, 2008 2:33 pm ET

Obama: Why do you openly promote Socialism?

You are so hung up on "equalizing" our existence when that's not what America is based upon. Punishing success and rewarding failure is un-American!!

Jeff   September 26th, 2008 2:32 pm ET

To Senator McCain:

Why is it that you cannot provide an answer to many of the questions asked on the campaign trail, especially when you call yourself the "Straight Talk Express?" And why is it, that no matter the question, every answer ultimately leads to your time as a POW?

Mimi   September 26th, 2008 2:32 pm ET

McCain: Are you serious about Palin as a VP? If so, you really are not putting Country First.

Ben Marble, M.D.   September 26th, 2008 2:32 pm ET

Has Mrs. Palin now or in the past ever "SPOKEN IN TONGUES"?

roise   September 26th, 2008 2:31 pm ET

to Scott in Atlanta
if Obama were white he wouldn't even be the nominee.

Joseph Regis   September 26th, 2008 2:31 pm ET

I would like to know how either one of the potential president of the United State of America intends to restore the image of America in the world after the imposition of the Bush doctrine with the implication of "either you are with us or against us" as well as the implication of the economic impact of the current foreign policy doctrine both at home and abroad?

JohnJon   September 26th, 2008 2:31 pm ET

I would ask each one what he would do to protect all Americans in the future when dealing with corruption and crime in government and the business section since its one law for the rich , another for everyone else, they never seem to be held accountable for their action, like ignoring subpoenas. Answer me and show me what you would do

C   September 26th, 2008 2:31 pm ET

My question to Senator McCann would be "Did you lie to Letterman"?

Sweetgreen   September 26th, 2008 2:31 pm ET

How would either one of them go about helping the USA build back our relationships with other countries?

How are we going to get out of the deficit that has been created with all the borrowing from China?

When are we going to pull out of Iraq and stop spending $10 million per month that we don't have for this unnecessary war?

Scott Tucson   September 26th, 2008 2:30 pm ET

I would ask Obama how he screwed up his meeting at the White House yesterday?

Guess the democratic plan was for him to go into that meeting and act all presidential but without a telepromter and a good speech in hand, Obama came out looking like an idiot without a clue as to what is going on. The finger pointing at John McCain as ruining the proceedings doesn't wash since Harry Reed himself have said of the meeting that McCain just sat, oberved and only offered a few comments at the end.

Lastly, why don't the dems just vote for the bailout package without the Reps? They have the votes to do it and Bush said he would sign such a bill. Can it be because it's a bad bill and the American people knows it?

Vegas   September 26th, 2008 2:30 pm ET

Sen Obama... why won't you help your starving brother in Africa?

ME   September 26th, 2008 2:30 pm ET

Sen. Obama........Why didn't you respect Hillary Clinton?

Ed, Santa Fe, NM   September 26th, 2008 2:29 pm ET

my question: how can you defend the selection of Troopergate Barbie as VP? The woman has ZERO experience and is the silliest and most shallow national politician since Dan Quayle. She seems to understand NOTHING and can't speak in recognizable sentences. Is she speaking in tongues?

David   September 26th, 2008 2:29 pm ET

question for both: who do you guys really work for (cause it's not us)? CFR, Trilateral, Bilderberg, military-industrial complx?????

James in NJ   September 26th, 2008 2:29 pm ET

Good Topic CNN!
Question: What exactly Senator McCain do you feel we will win or have won in the Iraq war and has it been worth the investment?

Please Indulge me two more:

Question: You continually say that 'The Surge worked' would you also say that Iraq safe now and if so would you walk through Bagdhad without a military escort and bullet proof vest?

Question: When are you bringing our troops home?

KS   September 26th, 2008 2:29 pm ET

very basic simple questions:

How many issues can you handle at once by multi tasking?

Give me one – only one good reason why did you pick your VP candidate.

What is the most important issue America is facing and where do you stand?

Two years down the line, what do you anticipate is going to be a pressing issue for America/Americans?

danel   September 26th, 2008 2:29 pm ET

Senator McCain: Are you still claiming we're all Georgians?
Senator Obama: Are you going to walk your dog when you make it to the WH?

James From Chicago   September 26th, 2008 2:28 pm ET

I'm sure Obama would have no trouble answering questions from the American people. McCain's answer would probably be about
the little fishes swimming around the oil rigs,

WHAT DUH?   September 26th, 2008 2:28 pm ET

McCain – Do you REGRET selecting Sarah Palin as your running mate? YES or NO . The WHY......We already know.

Sherry in SC   September 26th, 2008 2:28 pm ET

For Barack Obama – If you are the big man on economics, WHY were you not willing to postpone the debate and do what you are being paid to do as a Senator for the State of Illinois??? Are you afraid that you would actually have to vote yea or nay and not be able to vote "present"??? If you are "the one we've all been waiting for" why can't you win the election on your own merits instead of having to have your thug friends constantly try to tear down McCain/Palin. Why are you so good at dishing it out but whine like a big baby when someone dishes it out to you?

Just a few of the questions I'd like to have him answer. And not with an I-I-I, uh,uh,uh, um,um,um. A real life answer with real words. Can you do it? ("no he can't)

Curious   September 26th, 2008 2:28 pm ET

Senator McCain, you have been against regulation and now appear to be for regulation. You announced that you were not going to debate and now you are debating. You have frequently labeled others as flip floppers for changing their positions on various things. Using your own standard, are you a flip-flopper?

TJ   September 26th, 2008 2:28 pm ET

If I could ask them one question, mine would be the following: What exactly do you plan to do to get America out of this financial mess? I don't trust McBush, and Obama has my vote for sure, but I haven't seen anything from either of them that gives me any great confidence for the next four years.

Bruce   September 26th, 2008 2:28 pm ET

If I could expect to get something that was not just a repeate of their silly SLOGANS I would really like to know WHAT THEY PLAN TO DO TO FIX THE ECONOMY. Facts not fiction

jp,michigan   September 26th, 2008 2:27 pm ET

Sen. Obama what is your response to the fact that you have had a 20 year connection to the ACRON group? Why did you give the ACRON group $800,000 in campaign payments and disguise it as payments to a front group called "Citizen Services,Inc ' for 'advanced work'. ACRON group has a history of voter registration fraud in various states across America, your 20 year acquaintance with them, you should know this.!!!!!!!

Billy   September 26th, 2008 2:27 pm ET

McCain: There is an internet rumor that you were a POW. Is this true and could you spend the next 90 minutes talking about it?

Jim from PA   September 26th, 2008 2:27 pm ET

My one question would be to both. Do you feel that the President broke the code of Geneva Convention in his efforts to get Information from the detainee in Gitmo?

beth   September 26th, 2008 2:27 pm ET

I would ask McCain how he has been feeling lately. His left eye has looked funny this week...droopy and twitchy. It is on the same side as his cancer. For a follow up I would ask if he would release his medical records for review.

ME   September 26th, 2008 2:27 pm ET

Not so delusional......you're also not so smart......

Praetorian, Fort Myers   September 26th, 2008 2:27 pm ET

How many faxes, phone calls, emails have you recieved from constituents in your home state opposed to the $700 billion bail out?

Rick   September 26th, 2008 2:27 pm ET

Mr Obama, explain your past voting record, why are you preaching lower taxes, when you voted 94 times to raise mine????????

Denise   September 26th, 2008 2:26 pm ET

I would ask Senator McCain why would he think that leaders of other Nations would have any respect for him after witnessing his dishonorable campaign against Senator Obama, the LIES AND DISTORTIONS, and would he expect other Nations to believe him when or if, in the future, there would develop a situation where he would need to negotiate with them....my Mother, rest her soul, taught me "if you introduce your REAL self to people, they will never forget who you are"....The World saw YOU Mr. McCain for who you are and the picture you let them see wasn't a good one....

Mary Kaadan   September 26th, 2008 2:26 pm ET

No one has effectively answered the question concerning our jobs here, where large corporations are out sourcing the jobs to overseas. what's going to happen to all the people presently unemployed and the students graduating college and that student having to pay back their student loans 6 months after graduating. If jobs are being out sourced how are we going to survive.

David   September 26th, 2008 2:26 pm ET

Obama: why was the debate more important then the bailout?

McCain: why Palin, really?

calls it as I see it   September 26th, 2008 2:26 pm ET

The silliest thing I heard on the news today was that McCain was ready for this debate and didn't have to prepare but that Obama had to spend a lot of hours "cramming" because he doesn't know these issues. Hello?
Obama is ignorant and McCain is smart? What planet are you from?

Sally from Cali   September 26th, 2008 2:26 pm ET

McCain: How can you declare yourself the winner already when you did not know you were going to debate until this morning?

Rosemary Ford   September 26th, 2008 2:25 pm ET

My comment or can you ask this question of our candidates: Is there some reason that each of them can't put their Democratic and republican hats in the closet for a 24 hour period and join all members of congress on Saturday (tomorrow) to discuss the bailout question. The members of congress must also leave their political hats at home as well. This is a question of PEOPLE here. I care not for the companies that gave mortgages to those who cannot afford them. Those companies are at fault. But we are still, nonetheless, here with this huge problem. So, bail out and do it fast; however, put a caviat that each of those companies will pay back the amount given to them to bail out within 5 years and that NO CEO or board of director member will get a bonus this year. In addition, each company should pay a fine for what has happened. This is their fault, and they need to OWN it. Thanks for listening. This is terrorism on our people by big business and it needs to stop! Thanks.

ME   September 26th, 2008 2:25 pm ET

What EXACTLY is Obama's foreign policy experience and what EXACTLY has he done for ANYONE BUT HIMSELF???????????????????????

What has HE done to uncover and GREED/CORRUPTION in Washington??????????? In the Current Economic problem, what did HE DO ABOUT IT? WHY DIDIN'T HE SEE IT COMING?????

ines   September 26th, 2008 2:25 pm ET

To McCain: Why are you running your campaign entirely on lies, negativity, and WHY did you pick Sarah Palin??????

To Obama: What has motivated you to run an honorable campaign when every day you are facing negativity and lies from the other candidate?

Marik Bromine   September 26th, 2008 2:25 pm ET

My question: "Would each of you explain your plans for the economy as if you were speaking to the nation as fellow intelligent adults rather than to invalid children with malfunctioning brains? We want to check your math on the budget, we want to look over your figures in great detail and make sure that every penny is accounted for. Do not spare us the grudgingly tedious equations, give us truth, give us intelligent substance, we are fully capable of understanding this world in which we exist, if given the chance. You don't always need to dumb things down for Americans, we're a great deal more intelligent than you give us credit."

Chuck n Bama   September 26th, 2008 2:25 pm ET

Senator Obama, I am seeing plenty of comments about how Governor Palin is not ready to lead should she become presdient and that her visits with foriegn leaders are just a ploy. You yourself chose Senator Biden to even your ticket out in that area and in the area of foriegn relations. You took a "experience" trip to the Middle East and Europe earlier this year.

1) How is it that you are allowed to even out your ticket in this way and a Presidnet Palin couldn't select a VP that would strengthen her abilities in office.

2) How are Governor Palin's visits with foriegn leaders and your trip to the Middle East and Europe to bolster your experience?

Anonymous   September 26th, 2008 2:25 pm ET

i would like to ask mccain if he thinks the economy is still fundamentally strong? i would also like to ask him why he and his riduculous running mate don't just go ahead and concede?

PT   September 26th, 2008 2:25 pm ET

Senator McCain...if you become president how long will it take for you panick and Press the red button for war then say, I made a mistake?

Gary Chandler in Canada   September 26th, 2008 2:24 pm ET

A McCain Palin debate would be more interesting.
Palin said she would try ‘Change McCain’s mind on drilling in Anwar.”
Following is a list of issues McCain AND Obama disagree with Sarah Palin on…
They support funding for pro choice groups, she does NOT
They support abortion in rape cases, she does NOT
They believe in sex education in schools, she does NOT
They support the use of birth control, she does NOT
They believe polar bears are endangered, she does NOT
They would NOT shoot wolves from airplanes, she WOULD
They believe Alaska should be a State, her husband does NOT
Obama and Palin agree with earmarks, McCain does NOT
They do not believe Alaska is the safe haven in End Times, she DOES
They believe in global warming, she does NOT (She is right on this one) wrong on all the others
YOU SEE??? an Obama and McCain debate against Palin would get BETTER ratings!!!
If she would speak, we could ADD to the above list!!!

cool onlooker   September 26th, 2008 2:24 pm ET

Mr. Senator Obama:

You have been appealing to young voters and one of the most important reasons is that you embrace optimism in this country. Today even during the huge financial mess, you appear on media with your ever optimistic spirit. Can you tell us what is the ground for you to maintain this optimism even facing crisis?

Thank you.

Debby   September 26th, 2008 2:24 pm ET

Great questions its to bad this isn't a town hall meeting which it should be so the people can really partake in the election process.

LS   September 26th, 2008 2:24 pm ET

Question to McCain: McCain, how does it feel to be standing besides the next President of the United States?

Question to Obama: Obama, how does it feel knowing you are going to be the next President of the United States?

:o >

Mike P   September 26th, 2008 2:24 pm ET

Why did you lie to Dave and the American People. You didn't suspend anything and did not rush to Washington.

Glad Dave give it to you!

Baze   September 26th, 2008 2:24 pm ET

Where do you see the country in three years?

Tim   September 26th, 2008 2:24 pm ET

I'd also ask Obama if he has met with any heads of states prior to his recent trip to Europe, and if so, for how long and what the discussions where about.

Frank the Tank   September 26th, 2008 2:23 pm ET

I would honestly ask, how will you bring our divided country back together? When each candidate is such a threat to the other half of the population, I'm concerned this great schism in our country is leading us down a dangerous road.

Jorge   September 26th, 2008 2:23 pm ET

Question for John McCain (from a medical professional):

When was the last time you had an MR scan of your brain and what were the results?

Question?   September 26th, 2008 2:23 pm ET

I would ask Obama if CNN is help funding his campaign.

Darkside   September 26th, 2008 2:23 pm ET

This makes me so depressed. I hope I can fly out of the US to another country for a vacation during the elections. Obama wasn't putting priorities as his job as a Senator....... rather he wanted to "play" around by going to debates instead of focusing on a very important national matter – one that could put our whole country in jeopardy and see unemployment rise, gasolines rise, poverty rise and progress taking the backseat. I don't understand how people don't see this but McCain does understand it and a few people do....................

Doug   September 26th, 2008 2:23 pm ET

A question for John McCain:

It has become clear that, even within the GOP ranks, the view that Sarah Palin is not qualified for Vice President has become prevalent. Is there a scenario where she might be dropped from the ticket and a qualified person might be tapped?

Not So Delusional   September 26th, 2008 2:22 pm ET

My question would be very simple. "What would you do to ensure that Alaska is no longer a U.S. state and statehood is given to a state that has more to do with what actually happens in America, like Puerto Rico?" That way Sarah Palin can count the U.S. as foreign policy experience as well.

PoliticoMike   September 26th, 2008 2:22 pm ET

Sen. McCain, what happened to you this election process, how come you resemble Bush/Rove politics?

Beverly Ferguson, OHIO   September 26th, 2008 2:22 pm ET

My one question would be, "What tax incentives would be offered to single persons? They both and other canidates only seem to focus on married w/ children. It seems singles persons are always punished, by not being included to tax incentivies/brakes. We need brakes too!

Liz   September 26th, 2008 2:22 pm ET

I would like to ask Obama to tell me one thing he has done to help the U.S. economy since he has been in the senate and why should we the american voters trust him with our lives when he and all the voters know he does not have the experience to deal with the problems we are facing.

BLAME-GAME..!   September 26th, 2008 2:22 pm ET

Democrats have always been good to blame the other side. in other

words the blame is always on the other side.. Reid and Pelosi two

sleepwalking leaders in a do-nothing Congress...Obama was

well instructed to play the blame-game card...We the people are

not buying it this time..So Obama keep this one card in your pocket.

....Question is who is really to blame.........????

American   September 26th, 2008 2:21 pm ET

Q:

Why is that in our election Israel Comes First , then USA????
Don't tell me we are friends w/ them... we're friends w/ Canada, UK, and others too.

Nadeen   September 26th, 2008 2:21 pm ET

John McCain
If you can't handle a debate, run a campaign and work on the ballout at the same time, how are you planning to govern this great country where multitasking is essential? Is that why you ignored Afghanistan so you could focus on Iraq because you can't multitask?

Kelby from Houston, TX   September 26th, 2008 2:21 pm ET

My question to McCain: With the celebrity ad and the subsequent smear ads that followed and your lack of an economic plan and this most recent politcal stunt of suspending your campaign, I must know, Are you serious?...Are you serious about campaigning to be POTUS? Because it looks like you are playing games

Tim   September 26th, 2008 2:21 pm ET

I'd ask Obama if he thinks George Bush is a patriot.

jaye   September 26th, 2008 2:21 pm ET

You know – with our economy and country in the shape that it's in, it makes me feel that we're vunerable for another attack.
I certaintly hope somebody is watching our back door.

Mercedes   September 26th, 2008 2:20 pm ET

If I was given the opportunity to ask McCain a question it would be as follows.

"Sen. McCain, as an american citizen I would like to know why is it that you chose Sarah Palain to be your running mate. I thought you said you love your country above your party? You just handed your country to the antichrist if she does turns out being our vice president. Sen. McCain, wake up I'm asking you a question. Can someone call an ambulance I believe he has fainted from so much work. "

Pam   September 26th, 2008 2:20 pm ET

I'd ask McCain what makes him think the American people are stupid enough to fall for his political stunts.

conny   September 26th, 2008 2:20 pm ET

I would ask: would the both of you take a truth serum and the one that is most defaulted please leave and go home

Lifelong Republican for Obama, Columbia, TN   September 26th, 2008 2:20 pm ET

I think that McCain did himself a grave disfavor in trying to upset this week's events with his political gesturing. I hope that this week proves to all Americans how fatally flawed a McCain-Palin Administration would be. This is not what America needs over the next 4 years. I hope and pray that Obama mops the floors of Ole Miss with McCain's sweat and tears.

Debbie Vitro   September 26th, 2008 2:19 pm ET

Since the U.S. citizens have just acquired a major insurance company (AIG) can we now move forward toward Universal Health Care? I mean we have the Company. We could totally get rid of Medicare and Medicaid and negotiate a great drug price with all the people that will be under this health care plan.

Michael, watching from Canada   September 26th, 2008 2:19 pm ET

I would ask McCain what SPECIFICALLY is wrong with our (Canadian) public health care system (which happens to one of the best in the world!) since he twice slammed our public health care system during the primaries?

If Americans want to reduce their health care costs AND STILL HAVE HIGH QUALITY HEALTH CARE, they should study our public health care system closely.

S.B. Stein E.B. NJ   September 26th, 2008 2:19 pm ET

What should drive policy when it comes to technical issues - ideology or science?

We have a lot of people in the administration that do things that don't always conform to the results the scientists mention in their reports.

Tim   September 26th, 2008 2:19 pm ET

Can everyone who has NOT been the focus of an ethics investigation please raise their hand? (Bonus if Palin is on location as well)

Nancy   September 26th, 2008 2:19 pm ET

I, as a registered independent, would direct my question to Senator McCain whom I used to have respect for and voted for in the primaries when he was running against Bush:

Sir, the man I thought I'd known well for all these years is acting unlike himself which is very unfortunate. What I want to know is that after all said and done, how are you feeling deep inside when you put your head on that pillow and when you are face to face with God with no campaign advisors etc. in sight? Are you proud of yourself or do you wish you hadn't sold your soul to evil? That is the only thing I'd like to know.

kendall   September 26th, 2008 2:18 pm ET

is it considered a flip flop that McCain opted for the debate, then cancelled his campaign because Palin can't keep it going without him. Then decides again to attend because of pressure from the public?

Chuck n Bama   September 26th, 2008 2:18 pm ET

Senator Obama, Granted we have a Republican president, but, we've seen no reform from the members of your party on the hill. Why have the democratic majority leaders and leaders of the congress and senate financial commitees done nothing in two years to prevent the current economic breakdown?

Ministerof Truth   September 26th, 2008 2:18 pm ET

Questons to Sen. Mc Cain:
Is longevity in your politcal career more important than sound judgement ?

Is reactionary behavior better deliberating behavior?

Annie   September 26th, 2008 2:18 pm ET

Senator McCain: What caused you to pull the political stunt of a lifetime (after your vp pick, of course) to put your campaign on hold and rush off to DC?
1. the Palin-Couric interview,
2. Rick Davis and Freddie Mack,
3. a slide in the polls because you appear to know not what you do, or 4. something else that hasn't surfaced yet?

McKen's Barbie Collection   September 26th, 2008 2:17 pm ET

You complain about your boss not doing his job. You notice he's only working to fatten his pockets with big oil payoffs. He fights all the time with the smaller companies instead of the bigger company that has hurt him the most . Your have not received a raise and you may lose your job because the boss is now outsourcing the jobs. You are about to lose your home. The boss has so many houses he can't count them. The company you work for has not turned a profit in years and has low approval ratings. The boss distributes a company wide memo that reads " I really don't know much about the economy." The boss threatens to release the pitbull on if you keep WHINING. You have put up with his bullying ways for eight long years. Finally your work contract is ending with your boss. As you think about your family's future you ask yourself "Should I continue working for this creep or should I CHANGE employers? ".

It's that simple America. It's time for a change and YOU know it.

ANCIENT PROVERB: Don't let your pitbulls run loose with the moose on the White House lawn.

sandee in Portland   September 26th, 2008 2:17 pm ET

I would ask them what they are going to do to bring back well paying jobs to the US, not just service related, low paying jobs, but jobs that pay well like manufacturing. I would also ask them how they would get the American corporations that have outsourced our jobs to other countries back to us.

Rick   September 26th, 2008 2:17 pm ET

My question: Why should I watch you bozos in this unrealistic staged format when UConn vs. Lousiville promises be far more entertaining. Besides, you guys have been campaigning for so long anyway, I can't believe you can reveal anything about yourselves that we already haven't heard.

Go UConn!!

Dylan   September 26th, 2008 2:17 pm ET

BOTH CANDIDATES:

Please ask both of them specifics about their claims to "Reform" and limit the influence of lobbyists...especially in light of recent corruption allegations against Senator Ted Stephens.

We hear both candidates bring this up repeatedly, yet neither give any specifics on how they plan to do this.

Stacy from Loudoun County, VA   September 26th, 2008 2:17 pm ET

Simple: Is it true that the only thing we have to fear is fear itself? Or, how has the downturn in the economy affected you personally?

John   September 26th, 2008 2:16 pm ET

Dear John Mccain,

At what point in the campaign will you stop lying.

jaye   September 26th, 2008 2:16 pm ET

I would also ask McCain why he is getting so many face lifts and using so much BOTOX.
He looks like a white Michael Jackson.

Steve   September 26th, 2008 2:16 pm ET

Who are you planning to replace Palin with?

Saheed, Atlanta   September 26th, 2008 2:16 pm ET

The war on Iraq has cost us almost $1 Trillion. The proposed economic bailout due to deregulation favored by Sen McCain and Republicans will cost almost $1 Trillion.

In hindsight, do you have any regrets on your senate votes that supports almost $2 Trillion that can have been invested in Education, Health, Energy independence for Americans?

Bob Stephens   September 26th, 2008 2:15 pm ET

I would ask John McCain to explain to people why he was a member of the Keating Five during the savings and loan scandal.

Scott in Atlanta   September 26th, 2008 2:15 pm ET

Mccain: If Mitt Romney won the Republican primary, would you vote for him or Obama?

Mark Weller, Ohio   September 26th, 2008 2:15 pm ET

They should ask McCain how picking Palin is putting country first!!

If Palin becomes president, the US is done – anyone who saw her interview yesterday knows what I'm talking about. :(

Ex-Republican for Obama   September 26th, 2008 2:13 pm ET

I like to help people, as such I would ask the following of each:

Question to McCain: What will it be today sir, oatmeal or fruit?

Question to Obama: Can I help you with the move?

Scott in Atlanta   September 26th, 2008 2:13 pm ET

Question for Obama: Do you think that if you were white that you still would be trying to prove yourself to the country and the race would still be this tight?

jaye   September 26th, 2008 2:13 pm ET

I would ask McCain his stance on the DRAFT.
I know he plans to reinstate the draft, but I want somebody to ask him straight out.

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