September 26, 2008
Posted: 06:20 PM ET

From

OXFORD, Mississippi (CNN) – Spending on political television advertising this campaign cycle exceeded $1 billion this week, and is on pace to reach $3 billion by Election Day.

The bulk of the money spent since the midterm elections – $425 million – has been spent by the White House hopefuls since the first presidential campaign ad appeared in December 2006, according to an analysis by TNSMI/Campaign Media Analysis Group for CNN.

With 39 days remaining before voters head to polls, Barack Obama and John McCain are each spending $3 million a day on political ads, which are running in a dozen or so battleground states and nationwide. When spending by down-ballot candidates, independent interest groups, and political parties is factored in, political ad spending per day for the past week averages $7.5 million.

“For all the talk about the new media’s influence, TV advertising is still the weapon of choice for candidates running for dog catcher all the way up to president of the United States,” said Evan Tracey, CMAG’s chief operating officer and CNN’s consultant on political ad spending.

Tracey noted that in the 2000 presidential election $1 billion in total was spent on all political ads. Ad spending rose to $1.7 billion in 2004, and jumped to $2.4 billion in 2006.

“Historically, 70 percent of the total amount spent on TV is in the last five weeks,” Tracey said. “This means airwaves all around the country will become predominately dominated by candidates, interest groups and political parties promoting their positions and attacking opponents.”

Filed under: Political ads


Annie   September 26th, 2008 8:40 pm ET

Just heard a story on the news that the Republican holdouts on the bailout deal in the house want more government DEREGULATION and more TAX BREAKS FOR CORPORATIONS, as part of this agreement, which consists of a single page (their plan, that is).

California Voter   September 26th, 2008 8:37 pm ET

Isn't there something wrong with this picture???

EqualBranchesofGovernment   September 26th, 2008 8:30 pm ET

Imagine if Mitt Romney was the Republican nominee……he'd have spend the other half of his fortune.

Tina   September 26th, 2008 8:26 pm ET

I think I'll take what's left of my retirement and pension, stuff it into an old sock and bury in the backyard.

OBAMA*BIDEN!!

NOSS   September 26th, 2008 8:24 pm ET

If ever there was a reason to invite socialism into an area of government; it would be campaign finance.
Every candidate on equal financial footing would put the emphasis on the leadership, character, experience and other relevant content that would matter to the electorate. In other words, "The Cream Would Rise To The Top".

Dem for McCain   September 26th, 2008 8:24 pm ET

Obama is the worst candidate in recent memory. And I'm a Dem.

Diane Dagenais Turbide   September 26th, 2008 8:20 pm ET

I guess democracy is expensive!

MT   September 26th, 2008 8:20 pm ET

This is crazy! I am saddened that the media decided to run this story. The economy is so bad right now – is it affecting the candidates or the media. I think that would be a good newstory for us to hear how it is affecting them personally. I am so turned off by the election at this point. Although I am a democrat, I was so impressed with McCain's leadership by going to Washington and proposed that the debate not take place tonight. This leadership had impressed me and I might consider looking at him and the Republican party more and would consider voting for him.

Zaley   September 26th, 2008 8:18 pm ET

Vote the guy with one house.

GO OBAMA!

His 15 minutes of fame   September 26th, 2008 8:17 pm ET

Maggie, good point. Did you realize Obama initially supported the idea of public financing and then changed his mind when he figured he could get and spend a lot more.

Baze   September 26th, 2008 8:17 pm ET

These guys are creating their own economy. A tribute to the revitalization of the U.S. of A

ONE NATION

Maggie   September 26th, 2008 8:14 pm ET

This is really a waste of money. There are alot of homeless people who surely could have made use of this money and also people who are losing their homes in foreclosures. This presidential election is too long and drawnout and there should be a cap set on the amount of money that can be spent in advertising. I hope by the time the next elections come around in 4 years time there is a change made to stop all this wasteful spending on campaign advertising. So much money does not have to be spent for us to be able to chose our president. COME ON AMERICANS LETS STOP ALL THIS WASTE BECAUSE THERE ARE ALOT OF PEOPLE OUT THERE THAT NEED FINANCIAL AID AND THIS MONEY COULD HAVE BEEN USED TO HELP THEM!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Richard Philadelphia   September 26th, 2008 8:11 pm ET

Presidents can't "fix" economies. As an independent voter, I must chose between one party that has presented an inexperienced presidential candidate and the other party that has presented an inexperienced vice-presidential candidate. However, I am pro-national security/defense and pro-public safety. Biden may tip the scale for me. During his acceptance speech, he said he would put several brigades into Afghanistan and war ships near Georgia. I know the far-left had a collective heart-attack when he said this, put I had a sigh of relief. "Real-politik" is the way to survive in this world and I am sure our money will be well spent on the military if Biden becomes VP. Obama will take the back seat, as he should, just like Bush did to Chaney.

Griff   September 26th, 2008 8:10 pm ET

I keep forgeting CNN are so full of their crap…Why try? The USA.. United Stupid. (None), Available… Super Power!?
The EEC.. have now moved into your. Ignoramous stupidity…
Be a leader! or be just another Iran..

It is so obvious   September 26th, 2008 8:10 pm ET

It is so clear that very few Obama supporters really know anything about the issues – ignorant, just like their candidate and just like their party.

Timbo   September 26th, 2008 8:10 pm ET

My question to Sens. Obama and McCain: Given that Ernest Borgnine is a genius, would you rather appoint him to the Supreme Court or a high level Cabinet position?

Giovanni C   September 26th, 2008 8:09 pm ET

That one billion dollars will do more for the economy that the 700B give away will ever do. The dems think GW is the biggest idiot to grace the white but when he proposes this hair brain idea the dems go ga ga? I thought they didn't want four more years, does that mean we should vote conservative republican? Just goes to show the dems believe any problem can be solved by throwing other poeples money at it!! MY MONEY!!!

Wise up America   September 26th, 2008 8:08 pm ET

Dodd and Obama – #1 and #2 in terms of contributions received from Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae – enough said.

RapidRay   September 26th, 2008 8:06 pm ET

…and how many of you checked the $3 box for for the Presidential Election Fund on your taxes this year?

Yeah, I thought so…

Missing all of u in the us   September 26th, 2008 8:04 pm ET

Is this only a problem when the dems have more cash..
Anyway . I think obama and the teame around him are best suited to handle the economy :)
And in international affairs cause hes more thoughtfull and safe . . I respect mccain . But 8 years is enough and plenty

Andy   September 26th, 2008 8:04 pm ET

Obama?!?! I thought we were in America?

Cincy voter   September 26th, 2008 7:59 pm ET

How obscene. American politics is disgusting. Go feed some hungry people with all that freaking money. I'll be voting, but again, that's just disgusting.

Diana A.   September 26th, 2008 7:58 pm ET

Americans are finally finding out what is really important. They've lost their life savings, retirements, and pensions, but at least the abortion issue has been put on the back burner.

GO OBAMA!

Butt   September 26th, 2008 7:58 pm ET

Yes, you are

Jeff   September 26th, 2008 7:57 pm ET

Amazing how much money, time, and energy is spent trying to one up each other… But, money can buy many things, it made Bush seem like a nice guy you'd want to have a beer with. LOL, see how that turned out.

Chicago_Obama   September 26th, 2008 7:57 pm ET

McCain is too old. Were some of you not around for Reagan's second term? McCain can't even remember how many houses he owns. How can he keep all the foreign policy and domestic issues straight? Not up to the task.

Enough   September 26th, 2008 7:57 pm ET

Larry CA
By maximum benefits from Freddie Mac are you talking about ones
like McCain's campaign manager was receiving ($15,000 a month)
as recently as August 2008?

B   September 26th, 2008 7:54 pm ET

Over two hundred years ago, our first President, George Washington expressed concerns over excessive party spirit. In reading the e-mails in this chain, with all of the bashing of Obama/Biden/McCain/Palin, it's not difficult to see why this country, as great as it is, is in the state that it's in. I have no hardline affiliation to either political party – I just want someone that's going to do what's right, regardless of political affiliations…

Diana   September 26th, 2008 7:54 pm ET

That much $$ wasted by McCain advertsing nothing but falsehoods and lies. Typical Republican spending!

Hank   September 26th, 2008 7:53 pm ET

The best joke of the year: Obama.

Tl   September 26th, 2008 7:51 pm ET

The absence of any rushed bailout should take the wind out of McCain's apocalyptic sails. The Senator was pretty clear that he doesn't think the economy has any issues even though Bernanke blew the horn in Jerusalem.

I would hope McCain,72, will retire now.

Debating The Biden   September 26th, 2008 7:49 pm ET

When it's time to debate Joe Biden, Sarah will bring her talking points on cue cards.

Maddie   September 26th, 2008 7:48 pm ET

Americans are finally finding out what is important. They have to lost their life savings, retirement and pensions, but at least the abortion issue has taken a back burner.

Buy A Clue   September 26th, 2008 7:48 pm ET

Dear Kate:

Obama's black, buy a clue. He has done a great job with our money, and his supporters couldnt' ask any more of him.

Obama/Biden 08

Zane   September 26th, 2008 7:46 pm ET

The Republicans have the lobbyists who helped get us where we are today working on the bailout plan. I hope the taxpayers don't fall for these guys again.

Questions To Ask the Candidates   September 26th, 2008 7:46 pm ET

McCain:
What does being a maverick mean to you, and how exactly will you change things in Washington?

Did you steal Obama's theme?

Obama:
What does change mean to you, and how will you make a difference in Washington?

Larry, CA   September 26th, 2008 7:45 pm ET

Chris Rock is saying that we need to vote for the candidate who has oen house but he has robbed it with special help from Tony Rezko. Barack has underhand deals and American people are n9ot well-informed by the media including CNN. CNN wants to support Barack so better make Barack News Network. Barack has obtained maximum benefit from fannie Mae and Freddie Mack. CNN does not want to publish it.

Chicago_Obama   September 26th, 2008 7:45 pm ET

The people who think 5-15% of their salary will pay for all their medical bills are the people that end up bankrupt at the first medical emergency. Then we all have to PAY for THEM. Dupes and fools abound.

Chloe   September 26th, 2008 7:45 pm ET

Vote for the guy with one house.

Jeffer65   September 26th, 2008 7:45 pm ET

Think of all the good things someone could do with that $$. Really sad that our country has gone that way. Maybe the Iranian president is right that the American empire is on its way out.

Bethie   September 26th, 2008 7:44 pm ET

Too little, too late. Eight (8) years has taken it's toll.

Ruth   September 26th, 2008 7:44 pm ET

I feel sorry for our grandchildren. They'll never experience what the United States once was. The mighty have fallen.

Fort Collins, CO   September 26th, 2008 7:43 pm ET

The Market has been doing fine the last couple of days with the promise of an impending resolution. Why not hold off on this resolution and see how this plays out? No need to rush just yet. And why is it ok for Republicans to bail out Wall Street but not our public healthcare system? They can regulate the Economy but not Healthcare? Huh?

KindMiss   September 26th, 2008 7:42 pm ET

I'm a poor woman and don't have much to spare, but it just crossed my mind that I could sell smth on E-Bay (no, not an airplane,LOL) to give to Obama's campaign. It could be my best investment ever! GOD help us all! may Obama win!

Obamabots are funny   September 26th, 2008 7:42 pm ET

Maybe someone should donate a few dollars to George O'bama.

I love Sarah Palin. I can't wait to see her seated above Nancy Pelosi cracking the whip and telling these Democratic thugs to start getting things done.

Best Case scenerio: 269 tie – Congress ties because Liebermann votes for McCain – Dick Cheney ends up with the vote – McCain wins!

Utterly, fantasticly, awesome!!!!!

McCain/Palin -08

Meagan   September 26th, 2008 7:42 pm ET

When it's time to debate Joe Biden, Sarah will call in sick.

Jill   September 26th, 2008 7:41 pm ET

What a mess the Republican ticket has become.

Scott L   September 26th, 2008 7:41 pm ET

@DR in Los Angeles-

Thanks for supporting RAISING MY TAXES! YES! GO TAXES GO!

Hope you can afford 5-15%. It may not happen in 2009, but with a Democrat controlled congress, the tax bills and special interest funds will be FLYING through the house and senate and signed into law.

Can't wait for you to wake up one morning, not get your raise or bonus at work, then file on April 15th to pay that extra 5-15% of your paycheck.

WOOOHOOO! THANKS!

DR in Los Angeles   September 26th, 2008 7:37 pm ET

First time I've donated to a political campaign and I'm proud to have contributed to our next president of the United States of America!!

GO OBAMA!!! Obama in '08!

Sweet Jesus Sarah Palin is a Knucklehead   September 26th, 2008 7:34 pm ET

No matter how we got here, that is disgusting. I say give the ad money to the bailout plan and you don't have to worry about paying me back.

Roland   September 26th, 2008 7:34 pm ET

And McCain tried to wreck the economy by suspending his campaign! He's got $84 million in taxpayer money, McCain does, to spend on advertising, signs, and other non-union items (since he's Republican). How dare him hoard money at a time when more fluidity in the market is needed. Country first? Ha! It's all about the Drama Queen McCane.

Scott L   September 26th, 2008 7:33 pm ET

Call me selfish, but I would rather KEEP 5-15% of my OWN hard earned paycheck and use that cash to pay for my OWN family's medical needs, my ailing parents, my children's college education.

I do NOT want 5-15% of my paycheck to go to illegal immigrants, to people living on welfare, to anyone looking for a government handout.

Why you would vote for a Democrat President with a Democrat controlled congress is beyond comprehension. The tax bills will be FLYING through the house and senate. Not to mention trickling down to the state and local levels. Imagine paying 5% more state tax, and then on top of that 10% more federal income tax! Doesn't sound like much, but if you make 100k a year, that is 15,000 dollars POOF! Gone to pay for illegal immigrants, welfare recipients, people who freeload off the government. If you make 50k a year, that is $7,500!!!! Imagine saving $7,500 per year for your kids college education. Imagine trying to save WITHOUT that extra $7,500 (pre tax of course).

DONT BACK DOWN OBAMA!   September 26th, 2008 7:31 pm ET

To fight those republican demons and their constant lies, Obama will need a billion more.

Obamabots are funny   September 26th, 2008 7:30 pm ET

That money wasted on Obama might of helped a few homeowners.

NC want NEW Change   September 26th, 2008 7:29 pm ET

Amerika,
McCain and Palin has LIED on Obama for WEEKS and you have the nerve to say Obama is a vitriolic brand of division- a self-righteous attitude raising self up by degrading others. You are as blind sighted as Palin when she give her so called interviews (AIRHEADS). If anyone has caused a division in the election, it’s MCCAIN and camp. Not only has he and his camp caused racial division, but they have also cause woman to fight against woman. Get your facts straight. The truth is RIGHT their in the blogs you comment on, with facts BUT you choose to see only his color and NOT his successful and Presidential campaign unlike McCain and Camp.

Palin's God's Will   September 26th, 2008 7:28 pm ET

Since Palin believes everything is God's Will, maybe she can accept that God is trying to expose her quickly to protect us all before it is too late. And we all know why McCain picked a woman, he was losing then, and numbers are going down again; what else could he pull out of his hat? Hillary Clinton may help.

KindMiss   September 26th, 2008 7:28 pm ET

FACT is: McCain took 84 million tax payer dollars to sponsor his campaign. Obama was entitled to do the same, by law, but he said NO. 84 million might not seem much in the context of 700 billion bail-out, but still…Mccain acted as if he was the poor guy…needed tax payer help. What i say IS A FACT, I would never make things up. Go check for yourselves!

Scott L   September 26th, 2008 7:27 pm ET

@Ellie, Boyds MD

Um, no, YOU WILL GET SCREWED by the Democrats because this bailout plan will JACK up your taxes. You should be thanking McCain for bringing Republican representation to the table so that Ellie, Boyds MD doesn't have to tack on an extra 3% of her paycheck every year just to bail out Wall Street.

Democrats will raise taxes on you so fast. Go ahead, pay for old people, children, freeloaders, illegal immigrants….do your part to pay for those slackers and take away 3% of your salary to help your own family, your own loved ones medical bills, your own children's future.

DUH!!!!!

shelagh   September 26th, 2008 7:26 pm ET

Hear, hear! I, too, cringe every time Sarah Palin opens her mouth and I'm not even a Republican. Actually, I feel sorry for her.

Bob   September 26th, 2008 7:24 pm ET

What mccain judgement on picking palin?

Mack   September 26th, 2008 7:23 pm ET

If Sarah Palin is so bad…why do you people spend so much time worrying about her…she and Obama are on the same level sad to say..he can just read his prepared speeches better. If its experiance you all want, then Hillary, Biden and McCain are the ones to worry about. Democrats had a true winner in Clinton and they threw it away. Now we have a race to close to call and a nominee that many democrats don't even like.

Bs   September 26th, 2008 7:23 pm ET

I think some people are realizing that Mrs. Palin candidacy has been seriously compromised with trooper gate, pregnant daughter and other pending issues.

If McCain wanted a right wing Christian, he should of picked former Gov. Mike Huckabee, who also is an evangelical scholar, as his running mate.

In my view, McCain,72, should retire now.

Erika, KS   September 26th, 2008 7:23 pm ET

This amount of money is obscene and disgusting. The guy with the most money wins. Wow. This is the mentality of Americans. This is how we vote for a president? Not the best person but the one with the most bucks? Ridiculous.

It's time to stop this nonsense, limit the time a candidate can campaign and limit the money. This is a waste of money. It tells a lot about individuals and corporations in this country that they throw money away at a politician but won't help with education, the elderly, soaring health care costs, etc.

How To Be A VP In 39 Days   September 26th, 2008 7:23 pm ET

There's hope for Sarah. She should do what Princess Di did. Hire a speech writer and public relations person. Have someone teach her how to speak properly and how to answer questions succinctly.

Also, no hand holding with foreign dignataries. Just shake their hand, look into the camera for a photo and remove your hand.

Lastly call a former VP that's unbias. Oh wait, she'll have to go all the way back to Nelson Rockerfeller. He's the only VP who didn't have anything to do with George W. Bush.

My advice to be nice.

in good hands   September 26th, 2008 7:22 pm ET

no offense but even I can come up with something better to do with 700b dollars than these idiots came up with

Matt   September 26th, 2008 7:20 pm ET

That's a lot of money of money to spend on buying the right to choose whether you tell the entire American public LIES or the TRUTH. I wonder whose getting their money's worth.

Are we?

Rob   September 26th, 2008 7:20 pm ET

This is awful–this goes on way too long. This seems like its been years.. The money is wasted .It should be used on the taxpayers–we should all stop donating to them , then this will come to a halt .
And speaking of McCain has he had a stroke or is he really just that stupid

aware   September 26th, 2008 7:19 pm ET

So?

Obama is anathema for America! If you hate America, vote for Obama! :(

Ellie, Boyds MD   September 26th, 2008 7:18 pm ET

AMERICA WILL BE SCREWED BY THE "DO NOTHING" REPUBLICANS IN THIS BAIL OUT PLAN!!

throw the bums out of power!   September 26th, 2008 7:17 pm ET

and and vote smart!

then we won't have to waste this much time and money ever again!

Ellie, Boyds MD   September 26th, 2008 7:17 pm ET

OKAY… maybe we should use that money to pay towards the Bail Out Plan!1 That would leave what $600 more?

in good hands   September 26th, 2008 7:16 pm ET

lol…. mcain needs to retire for his own sake he has no business taking on so much stress

the other jd   September 26th, 2008 7:15 pm ET

Well atleast someone is making money….

Jessie, MD   September 26th, 2008 7:14 pm ET

LOL, John left Sarah in Philly under lock and key. Her instructions was don't speak to strangers or reporters. Don't speak at all. Any time Katie Couric and make her sweat, you know she's in trouble.

Sarah is not ready for prime time.

Obama/Biden 08

in good hands   September 26th, 2008 7:13 pm ET

lol….. wolf blitzer just said 10s of BILLIONS of people are going to watch the debare tonight…lol

Mack   September 26th, 2008 7:12 pm ET

These amounts are ridiculous. Americans are suffering and these candidates take your money to put ads on TV so you can then come on-line and complain about each other. If this board is an example of the change Obama will bring…then I would rather stay the same. From the beginning of this process, the Obama supporters have been angry and hateful about everything and everyone that dares touch their Idol. I am a democrat who is so turned off by this man and his supporters that I will vote for the other guy..or girl..It does not matter what happens tonight during the debate…most of you will still hate and call people names…This country is in trouble…we have no manners and no respect for those who worked their entire lives to make us safe.

Scott L   September 26th, 2008 7:12 pm ET

Glad McCain was able to get conservative representation on the economic bailout package. This means that joe taxpayer won't get screwed by the Democrats.

THANK YOU JOHN!!!!!

John Shakes Cindy's Hand   September 26th, 2008 7:10 pm ET

You guys have got to go to youtube and watch John McCain shaking his wife's hand. He apparently didn't know who she was or something. Cindy tries to play it off and walks him to the podium, but it's hillarious.

Funny

Joane   September 26th, 2008 7:10 pm ET

I thought I had lost my mind when everybody was making such a fuss over this very nice but very limited (presidentially speaking) young woman. Thank's to this article I no longer have to consider commiting my self.

Barney   September 26th, 2008 7:09 pm ET

It's just a shame that so many of McCain's have been disproven to be factual by factcheck – too bad the ignorant people don't have computers or the sense to do their own research.

Mason-Dixon   September 26th, 2008 7:09 pm ET

Obama could pay the national debt I think.

Liz T, Tucson   September 26th, 2008 7:04 pm ET

Why does Palin wear a Dr. Evil suit all the time?? Does she have a mini-me as well?

Dem for McCain   September 26th, 2008 7:04 pm ET

FIRST THE FUNDIES GAVE US BUSH…..

THEN THEY GAVE US PALIN (forcing John to pick her)…

NOW THEY'RE GOING TO GIVE US OBAMA (causing John to lose)…

Chris in CA   September 26th, 2008 7:03 pm ET

Come on Republicans. Grow a pair and fess up. Your candidate is a bumbling prima donna and his running mate is an incoherent deer in the head lights. There is no amount of spin or reasoning that can rebut that painful truth. After the Couric interview and the erratic "suspended" campaign moonwalk any high functioning moron can see the McCain/Palin ticket for what it really is. A whole lot of absolutely nothing! Oh, and they waste money, too.

meee   September 26th, 2008 7:03 pm ET

ohh has mclie woken up from his third nap a day?

did crazy cindy forget to put metamucil on his OJ?

did she not put metamucil?

did she give it to crazy ignorant and embarrasing Palin instead/?

oh lord, the clowns are in town

McCain for Pres.   September 26th, 2008 7:03 pm ET

If our economy is so bad, where is all this money coming from. What a waste of money by both parties. I know as far as I am concerned the ads mean nothing. Its their records and the policies they support. The half truth half lie ads only annoys me.

Farrell, Houston, Tx   September 26th, 2008 7:02 pm ET

John McCain is a waste of supporters money by spending all their money talking about Obama. While Obama has been taking care of business and staying focused on the issues. Obama is simply the best.

Griff   September 26th, 2008 7:02 pm ET

You pretend, you don;t believe in stem-Cells?

kate   September 26th, 2008 7:02 pm ET

McCain hasn't spent nearly what Obama has and the race is neck in neck:
So Obama will be the best choice for the economy? LOL!
I don't think he's handled his money situation very well do you?
Hasn't got much bang for the buck
He outspent Hillary too and the DNC had to come in and decide that one. (now I think they regret that choice!)
McCain will win the debate, Obama is terrible in pressure situations
unless he has the DNC and the liberal media cleaning up after him.

Susan   September 26th, 2008 7:01 pm ET

Megan, Bush already gave that hope. Palin is REINSTATING that.

Susan   September 26th, 2008 6:59 pm ET

WHOOPIE !!!!

MCCAIN IS GOING TO DEBATE NOW. LOOKS LIKE HE FIXED THE ECONOMY EVEN THOUGH HE DOES NOT UNDERSTAND A BIT ABOUT IT.

joel   September 26th, 2008 6:59 pm ET

Okay, everyone in America of Voting age: The Jokes over, after the interview with Katie, I'm no longer laughing, THIS IS NOT FUNNY, this is SERIOUS!!!! I actually feal sorry for Mrs. Palin, she'n in soo deep she can look up and see the bottom of her shoes… All the spin and advertisment in the world wont hide the fact that this woman is out of her element.

Michael   September 26th, 2008 6:58 pm ET

That is a rediculous amount of money, but unfortunately and regrettably necessary

kev   September 26th, 2008 6:58 pm ET

i don't like mccain and i definitely won't vote for him, especially with palin as his vp, but both candidates should have done public financing.

with the country falling apart, it's ridiculous that they're spending billions of dollars on campaign garbage.

Is Sarah Qualified   September 26th, 2008 6:57 pm ET

The idea of Sarah is sweet, but the real world, with real issues dictates that we be serious. She is not qualified to be our next Vice President and God forbid, our next president. John knew this, but selected her for the sake of his campaign. He falsely thinks that he will live forever, and if he dies, so what. Wrong decision, and wrong country.

Obama/Biden 08

Fools for Obama   September 26th, 2008 6:57 pm ET

It is all about money- and for the democrats to criticize the republicans for that is SO absurd.

It is the democrats who have lost their way and are subverting the democratic process.

The democrats that are WASTING so much money JUST on a campaign- NOT on solutions and action- but for a promise of change.

Lisa   September 26th, 2008 6:57 pm ET

We have people losing their houses.
There are reports of "tent" cities going up across the US.
There are people starving in our country.
And the politicians can justify spending billions?
A few reports, debates, etc is all we need to see what these guys stand for, and make our decisions from that. We do not need the name calling, lying, bickering, etc. high dollar TV ads. This money could be spent helping the millions of people suffering in this country.

darrell   September 26th, 2008 6:56 pm ET

The problem I see with eliminating the tax break for employers, is that
it gives them more incentive to hire contractors then full-time employee,s.

Currently the large trucking company I work for has cited that health care costs are killing them, and over the last two years they have turned full-time positions into contracting positions that do not have health care benifits.

Brendose, Oceanside CA   September 26th, 2008 6:55 pm ET

So…….where is this money going in our economy?

Amerika   September 26th, 2008 6:55 pm ET

This is just plain wrong.

Besides… Americans have lost all civility towards each other.

Obama promised unity but brought a vitriolic brand of division- a self-righteous attitude raising self up by degrading others.

Circling like vultures waiting for the next to fall prey to our need to pounce and attack and tear each other to shreds.

Why? So the person we support politically and believe may represent our interest best may win at any cost.

Are we still a democracy?

forty   September 26th, 2008 6:55 pm ET

Now McCain is telling the press that he suspended his campaign, and was the defining factor in getting this buyout close to accomplished. He is also taking credit for the ammendment calling for protection of tax payers. His credit should be given to Obama, whom layed out this plan to the public several days before John. He has taken credit for five Obama ammendments on this package. He also said he was the man who pulled everyone to the table. John arrived at that meeting very late in the afternoon. Even his republican buddies said he did nothing, and "said nothing of substance". Obama arrived early in the day! Get with it America, now the conservative GOP is asking Palin to step down because she is an idiot!

Michael   September 26th, 2008 6:55 pm ET

Wow so much money spent on lies by both sides. anyone who thinks their canadite hasn't lied in this or nay campaign is truely ignorant. AS for people who call McCain McInsane perhaps you should listen to what your VP pick has been saying because it is more off base then what McCain has been saying.

Gary   September 26th, 2008 6:54 pm ET

I think the debates matter more than the political commercials, more than the flyers, more than the sound bytes, more than anything political. They respond to questions, you decide. Forget the mailouts, forget the phone calls, WATCH and LISTEN. The debates are ALL that matter. This is what your candidate believes in. If the debate is worth anything, the debate asks the right questions.

S. Boatman   September 26th, 2008 6:54 pm ET

I Wonder How Much Mccain Paid For That Ad That Said He Won The Debate!

Anonymous   September 26th, 2008 6:53 pm ET

all that money spent, and we still don't know anything about palin except she can see russia from her house, how sad.

Biff   September 26th, 2008 6:52 pm ET

McCain camp does several hours of debate prep……. LAST NIGHT.

I just can't take this any more…..

ENOUGH !!

Hammer away   September 26th, 2008 6:52 pm ET

Disgusting. What a waste of much needed money.

And the American people have become dangerously self-righteous in their constant attacks on others.

The danger for us is our vitriolic division and relentless desire to humiliate and denigrate those we disagree with.

Marc PDX   September 26th, 2008 6:52 pm ET

CNN: I'm sorry you won't print what I wrote. I think it was fair and made some significant points in comparing the news of Sarah Palin versus Barak Obama. Obama has no claim of more experience than Sarah Palin yet she is the target of smears and an incessant campaign to unearth dirt that evidently doesn't exist. What I wrote, I believe, was well thought out and backed up with facts from recent news items. I wish you had the courage to print what you don't agree with. I believe it certainly was higher quality that 95% of the drivel most people are writing here – statements with no supporting facts stated.

I'm sorry you wouldn't print it but I'm not surprised.

Stacy from Cali   September 26th, 2008 6:52 pm ET

Wouldn't that money be better spent if it went to the bail-out plan?

democrat   September 26th, 2008 6:51 pm ET

I wouldn't be a bit surprised if McCain comes out in the debate tonite defending a stance against the $700 billion bailout-the very deal HIS president is begging for. He will do this to show America that he is not following in Bush's steps and it is purely political. God help us all if we can believe Bush about the dire need for this bill. McCain loves the drama and he will do it to get the Republican base behind him. He will do it for the effect it will cause. What is very sad is that he would rather win the presidency with the gamble of all of our American lives.

jp,michigan   September 26th, 2008 6:50 pm ET

Obama must get money from heaven. Main street Americans have to decide on medication or food with the little they have.

McCain Won The Debate!   September 26th, 2008 6:49 pm ET

Didn't you hear? McCain reengineered his BlackBerry technology to jump 4 hours into the future, won the debate by a landslide, and returned just in time to create ads claiming he won the debate!

NOW THAT'S A MAVERICK!

Such negativity......   September 26th, 2008 6:49 pm ET

I wonder how much Obama's campaign spends on the CNN Ticker. 95% of the comments are hateful slurs towards McCain, Palin and anyone who would vote for him. They have even started being vicious to Bill Clinton because he refuses to be hateful and negative along with them. It shows who the real hateful ones are.

S. Boatman   September 26th, 2008 6:48 pm ET

The Closer The Media Makes This Race Appear The More Money They Will Make! I Wish I Had Every Dollar Mccain Has Spent On Negative Ads! I Would Use It To Try And Make Sure Their Were No Homeless Vets! Thats How I Would Put Country First!

Debby   September 26th, 2008 6:47 pm ET

With all this spending especially by Obama he should be 20 points ahead. I do think at the last minute people will go for McCAin.

Michelle D   September 26th, 2008 6:46 pm ET

I will be watching the debate tonight hoping to see Obama tear McCain up. Hoping when the debate is over tonight, McCain will feel like stepping down with his lil beauty queen!

Kamunje a'Tembele   September 26th, 2008 6:46 pm ET

Compared to the $700.00 Billion Dollar Check that Mr. Wall Street is asking Ms. Main Street to write, one billion dollars is child's play.

Megan   September 26th, 2008 6:46 pm ET

Why is Palin "laying low" in Philly…Why isn't she talking to real people in really small towns trying to seal the deal? Oh yeah, I forgot that every time she opens her mouth she makes things WORSE!

What a great VP she'd make…OMG, their LYING is rubbing off on me!!!

tws1906   September 26th, 2008 6:45 pm ET

They could use this money as part of the financial bailout.

Michael Jack NYC NY   September 26th, 2008 6:44 pm ET

Sure beats paying for nursing homes and raising
the standard of living for those who need them and work
for 'em.

Megan   September 26th, 2008 6:43 pm ET

What's with the "McCain Wins the Debate" ad??

Um…you can't be very honorable in your intentions if the debate hasn't happened yet.

So if being "Honorable" means LYING to every American…well then he's doing a fabulous job.

PD Thomas   September 26th, 2008 6:42 pm ET

Get him Obama. Do him like you did Hillary…drain his accounts!!

Megan   September 26th, 2008 6:41 pm ET

Who cares how much money they spent….

If "Country First" means LYING to every American…we'll then McCain's doing a fabulous job.

PALIN does give us hope that ANYONE can be president. Doesn't matter if you know a lick about anything…If she can make it this far, then anyone can!

T'SAH from Virginia   September 26th, 2008 6:40 pm ET

IT'S ALL ABOUT THE "BENJAMINS" BABY!!! It does not matter because the money came from "DONATERS" – you give for a cause!!! Why? Because!!!

BUT – what we're not willing to spend money on is that "DOGGONE BAILOUT!!!" Uh, uh – NO WAY – NO HOW – NO BAILOUT just for the RICH!!!

IF THE MARKET crashes tomorrow – I'm still where I am – nothing changes and I will not be jumping out of windows on Wall Street!!!

IT'S ALL ABOUT "OBAMA" BABY!!! – The next president of USA!!!

mitch   September 26th, 2008 6:40 pm ET

internet has all the ads.

McMedia   September 26th, 2008 6:39 pm ET

Does this mean that McInvain aka McInsane is spending more than the $86 000 000 allowed if you accept government contribution?

linda from South Dakota   September 26th, 2008 6:38 pm ET

may the best man win,, obama/biden 08 and beyond,,( mccains messed up one too many times for americans to even start believeing him)

Doug   September 26th, 2008 6:37 pm ET

gross

Dave, Illinois   September 26th, 2008 6:37 pm ET

Obama way outspends McCain and still cannot open more than a slight lead in the polls. Since a lot of people polled are afraid to be labeled "racist" by the rabid Obamites if they dare to answer positive for McCain, I would say the race is tied. I can't wait to see Obama get stumped without his teleprompter tonight.

Shaun Dakin   September 26th, 2008 6:36 pm ET

I wonder what % is on robo calls?

Shaun Dakin
StopPoliticalCalls.org

Shannon   September 26th, 2008 6:36 pm ET

what a complete waste of money, it's so sad that these two candidates are the best we can come up with and still spend that kind of money. McCain the fool, and Obama the complete and total phony, what a choice!

Jesus Praising & Freedom Loving Patriot   September 26th, 2008 6:35 pm ET

WOW!

not really

Vets Daughter   September 26th, 2008 6:34 pm ET

wow…and Im part of that 1B with my $867.00 in $20 donations sent online here and there…

A campaign financed by Americans, for Americans. YES WE CAN.

Obama/Biden '08

Janet Senior White Female   September 26th, 2008 6:34 pm ET

reinvesting in the local economy, sounds solid from where we stand!

better than off shore investing!

pam from MI.   September 26th, 2008 6:34 pm ET

maybe the political campaigns should agree not to advertise anymore and donate all their money to the bailout of wallstreet.

McFraud   September 26th, 2008 6:34 pm ET

I guess the campaigns can jump start the economy, lets keep them going and elect a president 2 years from now.

Root Cause   September 26th, 2008 6:34 pm ET

This has got to stop.

It has been driven by the Democrats need to be prepared to rebut all the lies and 527 type shenanigans from 2000 and 2004.

fixthebroken   September 26th, 2008 6:33 pm ET

While I am for Obama, I wouldn't be upset at all if both campaigns agreed to not spend any more money on advertisements and either (1) donated all that money to charity (2) donated the money to economic bailout :-)

But, alas, we are going to get ads, both good and bad.

guy   September 26th, 2008 6:33 pm ET

And that is why we wont get a president but another corporate bag boy. Whichever wins. We in any case will loose. until the time we take matters in our own hands

McCain Invented the BlackBerry, Palin Invented the Manure Spreader   September 26th, 2008 6:32 pm ET

All that money spent and McGimmick still hasn't communicated a single coherent thought on the economy.

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