September 30, 2008
Posted: 10:55 AM ET

From
McCain said Monday Palin is being underestimated, just as Ronald Reagan and Bill Clinton were.
McCain said Monday Palin is being underestimated, just as Ronald Reagan and Bill Clinton were.

(CNN) – Sarah Palin may just be the next Ronald Reagan or Bill Clinton — two previous governors underestimated by the national media who went on to win the White House, John McCain said Monday.

Appearing alongside Palin in an interview on CBS, McCain reiterated his confidence in the Alaska governor, even as several conservatives suggested she is unqualified for the No. 2 spot on a national ticket.

"This is not the first time that I've seen a governor being questioned by some quote, 'expert,' " McCain told CBS' Katie Couric as Palin looked on. "I remember that Ronald Reagan was a 'cowboy.' President Clinton was a governor of a very small state that had 'no experience' either. I remember how easy it was going to be for Bush I to defeat him.

"But the point is I've seen underestimation before," McCain added. "I'm very proud of the excitement that Gov. Palin has ignited with our party and around this country. It is a level of excitement and enthusiasm, frankly, that I haven't seen before. And I'd like to attribute it to me. But the fact is that she has done incredible job. And I'm so proud of the work that she's doing."

The comments come after Palin's widely panned interview with Couric last week during which the Republican VP candidate struggled through several answers on her foreign policy credentials and the proposed economic bailout. The comments instantly became fodder for late-night comedians and prompted criticism from several conservative corners that Palin appeared to be in over her head. But a counter-chorus has also emerged, as supporters have publicly urged the campaign not to keep Palin so isolated from the media and to allow her unfiltered audience interaction.

“Holding Sarah Palin to just three interviews and microscopically focusing on each interview I think has been a mistake,” former Massachusetts Gov. Mitt Romney told MSNBC’s "Morning Joe" on Monday. “I think they'd be a lot wiser to let Sarah Palin be Sarah Palin. Let her talk to the media, let her talk to people."

But also in the interview with Couric on Monday, McCain decried "gotcha" journalism as he sought to downplay Palin's recent comments that suggested she would support crossing into Pakistan from the Afghanistan to root out terrorists.

"I understand this day and age of "gotcha" journalism, was that a pizza place?" McCain said regarding where Palin made the comments. "In a conversation with someone who you didn't hear … the question very well, you don't know the context of the conversation, grab a phrase. Gov. Palin and I agree that you don't announce that you're going to attack another country."

The comments came during Palin's visit to a cheesesteak restaurant in Philadelphia on Saturday night, when a voter asked if she supported a cross-border attack on Pakistan

"If that's what we have to do stop the terrorists from coming any further in, absolutely, we should," Palin responded, in comments that contradict McCain's long-standing position of consulting with Pakistan before carrying out attacks on terrorists within its borders.

Filed under: Barack Obama • John McCain • Popular Posts • Sarah Palin


Susan   September 30th, 2008 11:45 am ET

WILL SHE HAVE THE INTERN SCANDAL?

She can match Clinton in that only.

V.O.R   September 30th, 2008 11:45 am ET

Palin is clearly not ready.. I don't know how republicans can justify McCain's VP choice at this point. He had so much more time than Obama to properly vet candidates for his VP spot. This was a terrible gimmick that is back firing on McCain big time. How can anyone dem or rep honestly say they feel confident in putting theirs that their childrens future in Palins hands. Not I.

Sarah in South NJ   September 30th, 2008 11:45 am ET

HA! Bill Clinton compared to Palin!

means he's a moron which has been more noticable of late.

I propose the Barbie Doll song for Palin's theme song.

TC   September 30th, 2008 11:45 am ET

HA HA. Thank you cnn. I needed a good laugh today.

SB in NoVA   September 30th, 2008 11:45 am ET

Ridiculous question … but for the sake of it, hmmmmm …. let's see take a look from the beginning ….

BS Georgetown
Rhodes Scholarship Oxford
JD Yale

OR

5 school/5 Year BS in Communications (funny … that's sort of what she actually seems to be doing … "BS" in communicating) Univ of Idaho.

Enough said! The only thing Clinton and Palin have in common is that their last name ends in "n".

Once again … I'm voting for the SMART one!
TURN VA BLUE!!

Obama/Biden '08 and beyond!!!!!!!!!!!

Jill American   September 30th, 2008 11:45 am ET

Where did Regan go to school?

Steve/ Houston,TX   September 30th, 2008 11:45 am ET

I knew Reagan, I know Clinton. Sarah Palin, you are no Reagan/Clinton!

Moon over your 'bammy   September 30th, 2008 11:45 am ET

Proud to have voted for the very BEST candidate- Hillary Clinton.

All yee haters for Obama… suffer the repercussions for all your dirty, vulgar, foul, filthy, denigration of a great warrior leader.

Why?

Because she was female and not a young black male.

Meridith, KS   September 30th, 2008 11:45 am ET

McCain is an idiot. How powerful did this woman look when doing a joint interview with McCain. She should be supporting him but it's the other way around. She looked like she had to go and get her father because she couldn't handle the interview. If she can't handle Katie Couric, you can just imagine how she will be with world leaders.

The joke is over America, let's get down to business and select the best two people for the job–Barack and Joe.

Obama/Biden 08

Joyce   September 30th, 2008 11:45 am ET

Does McCain think that if he keeps saying something over and over that people will believe him? Palin compares in no way to Ronald Reagan or Bill Clinton because of her lack of Clinton's education and her lack of Reagan's ability to communicate. Another significant difference is that she has chosen to be McCain's vice president in some kind of nutty second-banana internship, instead of running for the top job on her own. Clinton would never have done that, and Reagan didn't do it.

Independent Voter   September 30th, 2008 11:45 am ET

Are you kidding me…I wouldn't compare this hick with anyone!!

OBAMA/BIDEN 2008&2012

Jac Lawson   September 30th, 2008 11:45 am ET

How can you possibly compare Palin to EITHER of these people. Both Clinton and Reagan had LOADS more experience than Palin.
Mr Clinton had been a multiple term gov of a state with aprox 4 times the pop of Alaska and Reagan a multiple term gov of the largest pop state in the contry! No comparison. Even though I have been known to remember the Reagan years darkly and with bitterness…I would still rather have him as VP or pres ANYDAY over Palin

Kate   September 30th, 2008 11:45 am ET

No, she won't be the next Clinton, or even Reagen. Clinton was (is) very shrewd, whether you agree with his politics or not. I never thought Reagen was particularly admirable, never saw much there, to be honest. I thing Palin is probably bright enough, but completely in over her head and she is too arrogant to realize that. She has always bullied her way into getting whatever she wants. She has that mean streak republicans seem to like when it isn't being directed at them.

sammieb51   September 30th, 2008 11:45 am ET

I DON'T THINK SO ON EITHER COUNT. GIVE ME A BREAK. PREPOSTEROUS.

cevans, tx   September 30th, 2008 11:45 am ET

RIDICULOUS!!!! No comparison…Give me a break CNN…You all are giving this woman to much credit….I can't even stand to hear her speak…The voice along gets under my skin…She is just not presidential material…None…

Norcal DM   September 30th, 2008 11:45 am ET

Garp, do you mean Gump as in Forrest Gump. Your comments show why 53% of Americans approve of this disgrace of a VP candidate. To even think that Palin is the next Reagan or even more insulting, the next Clinton is an insult to Clinton's very intelligence. Clinton was a rhoad scholar, do you know what that means? It means he was a gifted, bright, and highly intellectual individual who knew a great deal about the world before he became president. This knowledge is what he took with him to the White House. Sarah Palin actually said the 700 Billion dollar bailout was for the health insurance industry! Are you kidding me. If this the best female candidate that the republican party can come up with, they are in big trouble.

Sabrina Skacan   September 30th, 2008 11:44 am ET

Comparing Sarah Palin to President Clinton is an abhorrent insult. He was a Rhodes Scholar, she is not. He has an advanced degree, she does not. He was a multi-term governor, she is in her first term. His motto was, "It's the Economy stupid," she couldn't correctly identify elements of the economic bailout plan. So please, stop insulting the American people with sensationalization.

ropo   September 30th, 2008 11:44 am ET

ha, ha, ha, ha, oh my god, ha, ha, ha, ha, oh my god, now I know McCain needs to retire even from the Senate, it is time to admit that his old way of thinking and his so called changed policies will not work in the 21st century, ha, ha, ha, ha, aaaaaaah…. Palin the next Clinton or Regan, ha, ha, ha, I agree with all the other bloggers, once everybody learns what McCain just said, comparing Palin to Bill Clinton and Reagon, then they know that he is losing it and needs to just bow out gracefully because his thinking and judgment is way off to become President, he is certainly not being Presidential at all and certainly not during the first debate. ha, ha, ha, aaaaaaaahh, ha…

Robert   September 30th, 2008 11:44 am ET

Palin is Bush with lipstick

CD   September 30th, 2008 11:44 am ET

HAHA McCain picking Palin was the best thing that could have ever happened for the Democrats!

lyn   September 30th, 2008 11:44 am ET

God help us all if this no brainer become President . It a disgrace to photo Ragan and Clinton with this woman. Palin can never be like them. "Go Obama & Biden Go"

Melissa, NC   September 30th, 2008 11:44 am ET

What? hahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahha

*puts down fork*

Let me get this straight…..McCain somehow thinks that Palin is in the same league as Reagan and Clinton? hahahahhaahhahahahahahah

McCain……you have truly lost it!

mary ann   September 30th, 2008 11:44 am ET

Gov. Palin is not running for President – she will be John McCain's VP – should he win. When she is running for President – then I will decide if she is credible. Until then my focus is on Obama and McCain.

Kathy   September 30th, 2008 11:44 am ET

More like Miss Teen South Carolina..

Did anyone see her interview with Curic?

Linking Bailout to Health Care plans ? Huh

SUE IN CT   September 30th, 2008 11:44 am ET

Sarah Palin is very pretty. Sarah Palin is…….????

Adam   September 30th, 2008 11:44 am ET

Ummmm……No.

Gixmo   September 30th, 2008 11:44 am ET

Can't wait to see Palin beat the pants of Biden in the debate. You Nobama loosers…what experience does he have? Why don't you read The Case Against Barack Obama. FYI, in case you're wondering, I'm an independent.

Alex from DC   September 30th, 2008 11:44 am ET

Bush is Bush without the brains. Palin is even worse in the smarts department. If he wanted a qualified female republican, he could have gone with Christie Todd Whitman, but she has been called a RINO by conservatives almost as often as McCain himself. He wanted to throw a bone to the base, and he made an enormously irresponsible choice. Hope that doesn't foretell the choices he would make as president.

call and write your congremen and senator NOW!   September 30th, 2008 11:44 am ET

as they are trying again to

DECEIVE THE PEOPLE

with another version of the SAME BAILOUT of

CRIMINAL BILLIONAIRES on walls street!

TELL THEM TO SPEND 700 BILLION DIRECTLY ON PEOPLE ON MAIN STREET!

TELL THEM TO CREAT FAIR-PAYING REAL JOBS!

TELL THEM TO FREEZE FORECLOSURES AND RESTRUCTURE MORTGAGES!

TELL THEM HELL NO TO ANY OTHER VERSION OF ROBBERY!

Steve/ Houston,TX   September 30th, 2008 11:44 am ET

The bottom line is, Sarah Palin does not get it and John McCain made a bad choice when he played politics trying to get the Clinton supporters on board. It failed just like the Bush administration has. This is just a preview of what a McCain administration would be….disastrous!!!!

No Way, No How, No McCain/Palin

Barack the Vote!!!!!!

D   September 30th, 2008 11:43 am ET

Palin is exactly what we need right now and she will definitely get the small business owner vote.

McCain/Palin 2008!!!

Randy   September 30th, 2008 11:43 am ET

This is utter BS. Sarah Palin in the league of Reagan and Clinton?
They (Reagan and Clinton) had fought bitter primaries and ended up at the top of the ticket. Palin was a last minute impulse option by the aging and frankly quite indecisive senator McCain.
I am a Republican but I'm disgusted with the direction of the country's foreign policy of unilateralism, endless wars, bad financial decisions, risky choices (in wars and selection of the vice presidential candidate) etc. This is sure harbinger of dark days ahead were McCain to get elected. With friends like this who needs enemies.
I am putting my country first and voting Democrat this time.

Ross   September 30th, 2008 11:43 am ET

CNN, in Ratings we Trust.

Seriously. This is dumb.

Clare   September 30th, 2008 11:43 am ET

The comparision is obviously ridiculous.
And, it just shows how misguided McCain is.
McCain – Palin – not ready to lead !!

Tom Eyemdaman   September 30th, 2008 11:43 am ET

Palin is having a hard time finding her stride, McCain needs to let her go and do her own thing – she will do fine!!! She doesn't have an 80% approval rating in Alaska for being a bumbling idiot, and if the media wasn't playing "gotcha" journalism all the time everyone else would like her too.

Joyce, nj   September 30th, 2008 11:43 am ET

OMG, you got to be kidding me.

McCain never fails to amuse me with statements like this.
It has nothing to do with economy or anything significant to what is going on in this country. It's all about getting elected – we'll worry about that later.

If you're trying to pschy Joe Biden out, sorry but ain't gonna work. Something comprehensible had yet to come up on Palin's mouth.

Andy - Atlanta, GA   September 30th, 2008 11:43 am ET

Oh, please! It is an insult to compare her even to George W Bush. For all his faults & gaffes, Bush atleast forms complete sentences, & gives somewhat relevant answers most of the time.

Allen in Hartwell GA   September 30th, 2008 11:43 am ET

Yea, and if pigs had wings they could fly also.

Can I say that?????

Just Human   September 30th, 2008 11:43 am ET

Once you become stuck in the pathological liar state, even YOU believe everything you have been told/said/read. Is there a medication to reverse THAT!?

Joe Rando   September 30th, 2008 11:43 am ET

She's just like Bill Clinton, except for the Rhodes Scholar part.

Vegas Barbie for Obama   September 30th, 2008 11:43 am ET

OMG, for him to say such a thing after he had to BABYSIT her during that second interview with Couric and stepped in and cut Palin off when she said something he hadn't scripted for her…he is seriously off his old-dude meds.
OBAMA/BIDEN '08 & '12 YES WE CAN (like grown ups who can achieve TRUE greatness)

Henry   September 30th, 2008 11:43 am ET

After thursday debate will have a better idea…

Anne   September 30th, 2008 11:43 am ET

Finally…..a nominee that we Democrats can just sit back and
enjoy! I'm loving this show. The GOP nominees are burying themselves!

jeremiah   September 30th, 2008 11:43 am ET

Let's see, was it Palin who said that there are "57″ states? Oh, no, it was OBAMA. Yeah, he's a real intellectual giant. Not really smarter than a 5th grader, though.

And was it Palin who said President Roosevelt spoke to the nation on TV in 1929. Oh, no, that was BIDEN. 5th graders win again!

mark   September 30th, 2008 11:43 am ET

Every time that McCain condemns people for saying that Palin has no experience to lead, he shoots himself in the foot. He is running almost 100% on the notion that Obama doesn't have enough experience and these messages are contradicting each other. I think McCain is running a really confusing campaign.

andrew - texas   September 30th, 2008 11:43 am ET

Ronald Reagan and Bill Clinton have one very important difference. They were chosen by their repsective parties as presidental canidates through voting and the political process. They were then voted by the people into office. Sarah Pailn was picked by one man's descision with no input from the people.

McCain Invented the BlackBerry, Palin Invented the Manure Spreader   September 30th, 2008 11:43 am ET

IF PALIN IS SO QUALIFIED, WHY DOES McCAIN HAVE TO CHAPERONE HER TO HER INTERVIEWS AND RALLIES?

IF HE'S SO CONFIDENT IN HIS CHOICE, WHY DOESN'T HE LET HER LOOSE TO DO HER THING?

COULD IF BE…. BUYER'S REMORSE??

b. Krause   September 30th, 2008 11:43 am ET

Yup! Let's see Palin's Rhodes Scholar credentials. Or, how's about just letting us see her cumulative grade point average from the 5 mediocre colleges she attended along with the courses she claimed to have studied.

WI Cheesehead   September 30th, 2008 11:43 am ET

Here is Palin looking like a college freshman who just called her daddy on the cell phone and told him daddy the professor just failed me on political science 101. Please come and talk to them so I can have a makeup test.

PD Thomas   September 30th, 2008 11:43 am ET

Pailin is like a little kid who did something wrong and then had to get her Dad to come and speak up for her. Her misstep with Katie C. and then running back to her with her Dad on her arm was so juvenile…OMG and we are in some way thinking her name belongs next to Reagan and Clinton. The insult in the suggestion is indicative of blasphemy.

Chris   September 30th, 2008 11:43 am ET

She isn't even the next Dan Quayle. She shouldn't even been in the same sentence as Reagan or Clinton.

Rise Hillary, Rise   September 30th, 2008 11:43 am ET

Rise, Hillary Rise.

You created a void of leadership by sabotaging HRC.

Now lesser candidates WILL fill that void.

Katie   September 30th, 2008 11:42 am ET

Send McCain some Aricept, maybe it will stop the mental decline he is starting to experience. Oh, wait he can only focus on one thing at a time. Apparantly when he made his VP choice he was trying to do something else and slipped up.

American Voter   September 30th, 2008 11:42 am ET

…With that headline, you must be kidding…right?

Terry Shea   September 30th, 2008 11:42 am ET

What a joke. Reagan and Clinton might have been underestimated, but at least they could provide coherent answers to questions. Whether you agreed with them or not doesn't matter — they could clearly articulate their point of view in virtually any topic, even if it was sometimes political double talk. Palin can't even do that.

MD in GA   September 30th, 2008 11:42 am ET

HAHAHAHAHAHA. Maybe Bill will quit gussing over her now. Hillary should keep a sharp eye on him. His tongue has been hanging out ever since McCain introduced Palin to the world… What a joke…

Chris in CA   September 30th, 2008 11:42 am ET

I've talked to my friends in VA, MI, PA and NV. McCain should be VERY worried.

G from the A   September 30th, 2008 11:42 am ET

If you mean will get caught cheating on the " First Dude" with an intern , than I say yes

Floyd H STOKES   September 30th, 2008 11:42 am ET

that one is easy check her I. Q . PALIN that is might be 85 Bill Clinton183

LT   September 30th, 2008 11:42 am ET

Free Bullwinkle!

Frankie S   September 30th, 2008 11:42 am ET

I beleive this statement to be absolutely true. Sarah Palin can relate to Main Street and when she finds her legs, she will confront corruption and partisan finger pointers right to their faces. She brings real 'Change' that Obama can only dream about. Oh yeah, and listen to Obama followers spew hatred……not what we want for America!

John   September 30th, 2008 11:42 am ET

Odd choice for Sara's photo; I'm not a supporter, but there seems to be some bias.

AJ   September 30th, 2008 11:42 am ET

Palin the next Bill Clinton ( please ). Perhaps a comparative with Bush would have been more appropriate.

Never followed Reagan's political career closely enough, but Bill Clinton is easily one of the most intelligent and visionary US Presidents of modern time.

If Chris Brown's insulting Bill Clinton on the Letterman show wasn't enough you had to publish this… but if she ever ends up becoming the VP, she better smarten up.

I am looking forward to the debate on Thursday, may be she changes my mind.

Bob   September 30th, 2008 11:42 am ET

Palin didn't run for Presidency, she was tapped to be a vp. That's the difference!!

dr.winklebear   September 30th, 2008 11:42 am ET

obama is black so he shouldnt win!!!

Phantom of the Oprah   September 30th, 2008 11:42 am ET

Democrats… when you gleefully trash, bash and attack your own BEST candidate…. when you swiftboated HRC out of the race based on sexist hate and filthy allegations…. A sorry day for Americans when we had to witness that ugly, disrespectful, vitriolic rain of rage against Hillary…

You allow a lesser candidate- or candidates- to fill the leadership void.

Ty   September 30th, 2008 11:42 am ET

This is like a bad Disney movie that just got worst and Sarah Palin is the leading actress. I'm scared for my country that she can even possibly be President one day. Her closest comparison in modern times would have to be Dan Quayle. Yikes!

Clarence, OH   September 30th, 2008 11:42 am ET

Clinton is way smarter than Reagan ever was, and Sarah doesn't have to be smart, she just has to learn her lines. This woman is not swift, stop trying to pretend she will ever be smart.

Also, I understand why she's not too bright. She keeps her kids out of school for this? Barack Obama would NEVER do that, never.

Obama/Biden 08

Marco in AZ   September 30th, 2008 11:42 am ET

This is a joke, right? This woman is absolutely clueless! Comparing her to Ronald Reagan or Bill Clinton is an insult to both former Presidents!

OBAMA-BIDEN 08

Good LAWD!!!   September 30th, 2008 11:42 am ET

Comparing her to Clinton and Reagan? I would be insulted if I were Clinton and the Reagan family but knowing Clinton he is looking at her with those I want that eyes. The McCain campaign are going to re-introduce her, forget about that let's concentrate on the economy.

Texas Witch Twister   September 30th, 2008 11:41 am ET

I do not know were you idiots come up with that Palin is not qualified. IF SHE IS NOT QUALIFIED THEN SURELY OBAMA IS NOT QUALIFIED TO BE A SCOUT LEADER. PLEASE MEDIA QUIT BEING SO BIASED IN SUCH DUNG. QUIT THIS KIND OF OF COVERAGE. I AM SICK OF OBAMA THIS AND OBAMA THAT. HE IS A TERRIBLE FIGURE OF SOMEONE TO BECOME PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES. JUST WHAT IS HE QUALIFIED AT.

Hanky   September 30th, 2008 11:41 am ET

We know Reagan and we know Clinton, Ms. Palin is no Reagan or Clinton, she is Sarah Palin. Let her make her own legacy. The GOP dropped the ball on this and she is paying the price. I do not blame her. They put too much pressure on her, which is the reverse of what they actually wanted to do. McCain seems to be allowing the pressure to get to him, now.
Henry

Nechia NYC   September 30th, 2008 11:41 am ET

Really Clinton and Reagan…smh

Not even close…They are carismatic speakers whereas she can barely speak smh he is so out of touch….

Mi Ho   September 30th, 2008 11:41 am ET

I was gonna clean my room until I got high
I gonna get up and find the broom but then I got high
my room is still messed up and I know why
- cause I got high [repeat 3X]

ex republican Latino   September 30th, 2008 11:41 am ET

Palin is all right. She can help the country she loves in many ways. Being in the White House is not one of them. Keep her in the news, it is fun to watch her make a fool of herself.

When we finally get tired of all the drama; We will do what is right and vote Obama!!!

bewitched   September 30th, 2008 11:41 am ET

Grabbing at straws! Clinton was govenor for ten years and Regan for eight not including their other public service (Clinton) and military service (Regan). I'm not sure how Palin's experience even comes close…it doesn't. I as a woman, would not vote for a woman because she is a woman. I will vote for a candidate that can make this nation great again. Palin better served as a parody on SNL. Go home Sarah! If she/they are elected, count this american as an expat!

Jim from Middletown, CT   September 30th, 2008 11:41 am ET

Any comparison of Palin to Reagan and Clinton is an insult to Reagan and Clinton. Dan Quayle, maybe.

wadster   September 30th, 2008 11:41 am ET

Hey Gate – are you from this world? You are now saying that Sarah Palin is comparable to Admiral James Stockdale? Well, Admiral Stockdale could answer the questions, he just did it in plain fashion and not in a PC way (that is about it for comparison). Educated at one of the best colleges in the country, served bravely in defending our country. please…

S Callahan   September 30th, 2008 11:41 am ET

I think the idea that existed on the Hill 'that Americans are stupid' is pie in the face of Sen. McCain's campaign. The lion surely roared yesterday.

Susan in NC   September 30th, 2008 11:41 am ET

OMGosh! How disrespectful and insulting to even think (much less say out loud on national TV) ot comparing Sarah Palin to Presidents Reagan and/or Clinton — shameful!

Preposterous   September 30th, 2008 11:41 am ET

Bill Clinton is a Rhodes Scholar. Palin is clearly NO Rhodes Scholar.

jn   September 30th, 2008 11:41 am ET

Jared…our reactions?? Jumping up and down for Barack Obama, the next President of the USA!!!!

Bill Tampa   September 30th, 2008 11:41 am ET

The MCcain campaign is a sexist campaign. If I were Palin, I would have told MCsame I could speak for myself during round 2 of Couric's interview. It really made her look as if she could not handle her water by having MCsame sitting next to her and answering and defending her. Not a good impression, and impressions are everything in a General Election.

1   September 30th, 2008 11:41 am ET

12

Spider   September 30th, 2008 11:41 am ET

Just wait til the VP debate, folks. Watch Biden go down in flames.

Ed   September 30th, 2008 11:41 am ET

You democrats are the most hate-filled people on the planet. You folks deserve to have the leadership you do. A group of elected officials that not only like to label people. They also like to take all good plans for themselves and then when something goes wrong, are the first to blame somebody else.

balthus   September 30th, 2008 11:41 am ET

McSame's choice of Palin was anti-American. He claims to put "country first," but when push came to shove he put his own political ambition above what would be best for us. Shove off, liar!!

JusLaugh   September 30th, 2008 11:41 am ET

I couldn't respond very fast, because I was trying to stop laughing.

Palin is the Next George W. Bush. All you have to do is listen to the two of them speak back to back and you soon realize there are amazing simularities.

Comparing either McCain or Palin to great presidents is a slap in the face to, well, great presidents.

FreeNLovIt   September 30th, 2008 11:41 am ET

Palin is Palin. She's not Reagan or Bill Clinton. She's the next Bush and Cheney and this is not a no-brainer.

gl   September 30th, 2008 11:41 am ET

Jared September 30th, 2008 11:15 am ET

You liberals are to funny with your crude ungracious comments…..and I can't wait till Nov 5th to see your reactions….

You repubs are just plann nuts to think the American people are not on to you republs this time around. Obama doesn't have to any thing else for here on becasue McShame have lost this rest just on all his bad judgements. He can lie to his face tund red about Obama until Nov. and he still will not win.

W   September 30th, 2008 11:41 am ET

McCain is out of his freaking mind!

Em   September 30th, 2008 11:41 am ET

Yeah, only except SHE HAS NO IDEA WHAT SHE'S TALKING ABOUT. Isolate her from all the advisers and speech writers for two weeks and see what you get.

Phantom of the Oprah   September 30th, 2008 11:41 am ET

Democrats… when you gleefully trash, bash and attack your own BEST candidate…. when you swiftboated HRC out of the race based on sexist hate and filthy allegations….

You allow a lesser candidate- or candidates- to fill the leadership void.

Steve   September 30th, 2008 11:41 am ET

I beleive this statement to be true. Sarah Palin can relate to Main Street and when she finds her legs, she will confront corruption and partisan finger pointers right to their faces. She brings real 'Change' that Obama can only dream about. Oh yeah, and listen to Obama followers spew hatred……not what we want for America!

Jim   September 30th, 2008 11:40 am ET

Yah, that's right. Caribou Barbie is the second coming of Reagan and the New Bill Clinton.

And McSame is the 21st Century's version of Emperor Norton.

Reena   September 30th, 2008 11:40 am ET

Mcain has Alzeimer, he can't remember. Thats why every time he opens his mouth he say what he wants. Grandpa Mccain has to protect his granddaughter Palin from more humiliation.

lol   September 30th, 2008 11:40 am ET

NEITHER

drew   September 30th, 2008 11:40 am ET

shes mentally challenged….

Dutchlaroo   September 30th, 2008 11:40 am ET

Isn't it funny how they go after Palin, on experience, but Obama has less experience…. He has been on the campaign trail for the majority of his 3 years in the Senate.

Party Crasher   September 30th, 2008 11:40 am ET

Or she could be the next George W. Bush

Ness   September 30th, 2008 11:40 am ET

You've got to be kidding…….As a female of very high intelligence, I find it insulting that they would actually compare this "stepford wife" to the brilliant mind of Bill Clinton.

John   September 30th, 2008 11:40 am ET

Too bad Bush wasn't questioned like this when he first ran for president.

citizen76   September 30th, 2008 11:40 am ET

HAHAHAHAHAAHAHAHAHAHA

This is one of the funniest things I've heard ever! John McCain actually made a funny joke. Thanks McCain. When you go back to being a Senator full time in January, you'll have plenty of time to tell jokes. You're always so full of them.

Palin IS a Moron   September 30th, 2008 11:40 am ET

I am familiar with ALL of the "institutions of higher learning" that Palin
"attended". The path to "academic success" for a moron is to take the bulk of your degree requirements at "paper mills" and then to transfer into a decent school (U of Idaho) to pursue a "bottom of the barrel" major … journalism. A dead monkey could get a degree using this path. Palin
is a clown. The only thing dumber than a hockey player is a hockey mom.

Brain in DC   September 30th, 2008 11:40 am ET

So…. she's Reagan with lipstick??

mama4obama   September 30th, 2008 11:40 am ET

For me, what is most disappointing in Palin is that she is a willing pon in this game of politics. She knows she is in over her head, yet wiling to stand there and look pretty reading her little cheat cards. As a woman, Im grossly disappointed that she is ok with being a political ploy….slap in the face to educated women everywhere.

As for McCain…dont even get me started. The whole repuglican campaign is just sorry!

indiePA   September 30th, 2008 11:40 am ET

Puh-leeeeze!!! What do we know about her….really?? Likable though she may be, she has in no way demonstrated that she is competent and knowledgeable enough to handle anything but a big family and cutting up a moose. We certainly don't need to be saddled with (no pun intended) another Dubya!!!!!

A CANUCK   September 30th, 2008 11:40 am ET

I am amazed and entertained by what comes out of the old geezer's mouth !!!????……..actually …Palen is the next Minnie Mouse at Disney World……she's got the voice for it !!!!!

William Zaccagnino   September 30th, 2008 11:40 am ET

A big distinction is that Ronald Reagan and Bill Clinton were articulate and informed. Sarah palin's perspective has not seemed to have expanded beyond a small town mentality. It's not surprising considering that Wasilla has not even broken 10,000 in population and Alaska has a population only slightly higher than Washington, DC.

Karen   September 30th, 2008 11:39 am ET

I don't think anyone is under estimating anything about this woman. She is unqualified and I do not want my security, health issues, or anything left in her hands. She can't do an interview and then she wants a second chance with McCain by her side. That just proves even more how lack of qualification.

Margaret   September 30th, 2008 11:39 am ET

Live in Northeast Ohio and people who had Hillary signs in their yard for the primary now have McCain/Palin signs in their yard!!!!!!!!!!!!!

jlm   September 30th, 2008 11:39 am ET

Her answers are "beauty contest" answers. Reagan and Clinton were in their governor responsibilities a lot longer than Palin has been and California very large and Arkansas not so large but certainly way above Alaska. This decision by McCain plus the recent McCain resolution of the problem in Washington and New York shows that maybe he has come into question about being the one for President. We need very capable people ready to step into the job right now. Biden is very capable. Obama is very smart and knows the right people to put into his cabinet. This has become very clear in the past week. The Republicans really are having problems.

Spider   September 30th, 2008 11:39 am ET

Just wait til the debate folks. Watch Biden go down in flames.

SOUTHERN HOTTIE   September 30th, 2008 11:39 am ET

L O L

Demi   September 30th, 2008 11:39 am ET

Oh…so it's ok to be an "un-experience" candidate on his ticket, but not on Obama's ticket.

Obama/Biden 08

Dianna, PA   September 30th, 2008 11:39 am ET

In a million years Sarah will never be the next Ronald Reagan or Bill Clinton. She doesn't have a clear understanding of the world. More important than that, what's going on with her baby. She is running all around the country and the baby loses. I'm not saying the baby is ignored but he needs his mother.

Veronica   September 30th, 2008 11:39 am ET

Gotcha journalism? Right whatever. If you keep hiding her from the press, guess what? People are just going to go up to her and ask her questions that they are concerned about themselves. You might as well just keep her from the public too.

McSameMcCain on myspace   September 30th, 2008 11:39 am ET

Reagan and Clinton were picked by their parties as a result of victory in the primaries. Palin was not so this doesn't even relate. Sorry kids, you are talking oranges and moose apples.

hans   September 30th, 2008 11:39 am ET

haha…this article belongs on SNL
the difference between Clinton and Palin is that Clinton is brilliant and capable, whereas Palin is an ignorant fool
this can't be a serious article

Kurt from Canada   September 30th, 2008 11:39 am ET

I'm not even sure she measures up to Dan Quayle.

And I loved how when Couric asked Palin, PALIN, if she was sorry she said what she did, McCain answered for her.

What a joke.

kkcough   September 30th, 2008 11:39 am ET

perhaps the next Anita Bryant.

leighg1   September 30th, 2008 11:39 am ET

There is a reason why she went to SIX colleges to get her degree. Clinton went to Yale and Oxford. There is no comparison between the two. Anybody who cannot see that is a fool.

miles   September 30th, 2008 11:39 am ET

We're having a boring election up here in Canada, but I feel really sorry for Americans…. McCain was a stand up guy and I thought it was win-win 4 months ago, but Palin has total ruined his credibility as a "country first" and independent thinker.

We had an airhead lead government briefly but we tossed her out after a few months. How do Americans look at this woman and imagine the country potentially being run by her?

Dan   September 30th, 2008 11:39 am ET

wow. McCain is looking more like an old Grandpa- chaperoning his granddaughter.
Palin looks weak, nervous, and pathetic.
I don't think that is an image the campaign meant to put forward.

Obama looks more presidential every day. I think McCain/Palin are making this easy for them.

irishspacemonk   September 30th, 2008 11:39 am ET

I'm not a Reagan fan, but I respect him for what he did. And I feel insulted by your suggestion that Palin would even come close to being the "Next" Reagan. Didn't t both Reagan and Clinton make it to their positions by running on their won merits? Palin has been whisked up by the McCain campaign to provide some viagra action to his struggling limbido.

Hmm. Will CNN ever approve this?   September 30th, 2008 11:39 am ET

Erik, McCain was there to hold her hand. Those were some brutal questions. It's not easy being the veep gimmick…er..I..mean..pick!

Dean   September 30th, 2008 11:39 am ET

Yeah, right.

Edward   September 30th, 2008 11:39 am ET

Dan Quayle? Yes
Reagan or Clinton? Not so much.

Kenneth   September 30th, 2008 11:38 am ET

I think McCain is confusing excitement with panic. They're panicking over Palin and the Republican train wreck that is this campaign. This is the first campaign ever to get a call from FEMA.

McCainGate   September 30th, 2008 11:38 am ET

If I remember correctly, Ronald Reagan and Bill Clinton were well-versed on the issues and knew how to communicate their thoughts with and without their teleprompters. Ronald Reagan was called the "Great Communicator" and could debate effectively. Palin struggled to get through the softball questions of Katie Couric.

Chris, Bethesda, Maryland   September 30th, 2008 11:38 am ET

ARE YOU BLOODY MAD????

Wake Up Zombies!!!   September 30th, 2008 11:38 am ET

Palin can't even string sentences together coherently. The fact that she was not prepared to answer a question about a statement that she has made more than once is a testament to her lack of depth.

One more for McCain/Palin   September 30th, 2008 11:38 am ET

Sarah Baracuda is a good name for our next Vice President. The fact that John McCain doesn't throw her in to swim with the piranhas of the
liberal media, makes sense to me. We are blessed to have a woman of faith and value, to be able to become the next VIce President of America. Go Sarah!

Anonymous   September 30th, 2008 11:38 am ET

I think Palin is the next gigantic crap the Republican party has taken on the American people.

Independents for Democrats   September 30th, 2008 11:38 am ET

This fits somewhere between sad and just plane laughable! I feel sorry for Palin because she was thrust into this situation and had no idea what she was getting into. I liked her at first but nothing has pushed me FURTHER from McCain then Palin. As a former republican woman, I am still free thinker and have been left with the unmistakable fact, that if this woman truily thinks she knows something about Russia because she can see it from her house…The closest Clinton reference to this woman would have to be Lewinsky respectively.

Independent woman for Democrats.

BJ - Baltimore   September 30th, 2008 11:38 am ET

- McCain has pulled out all the stops and will do anything to win, regardless of the risk to the country.
- Obama recognized his shortcomings in foreign policy and picked Biden to fill in the gaps, even though Biden is not pretty, charming, cute, or even popular.
This clearly tells a lot about how the candidates think.

Darrell   September 30th, 2008 11:38 am ET

Gag me with a spoon !!!

Ron T   September 30th, 2008 11:38 am ET

We are now learning that obama will be beside Biden in his next TV interview to bolster his confidence.

They will also be complaining about "gotcha" questions from voters.

the other jd   September 30th, 2008 11:38 am ET

Palin is having an affair with Monica Lewinski?

Real Real Change   September 30th, 2008 11:37 am ET

Ronald Regan must be twirling in his grave.

Nobummunist - Never!   September 30th, 2008 11:37 am ET

Sarah Palin is ten times more qualified than "Barack Obama, the Barry White of communist talk" She's just a little off balance because he didn't realize just how mean and ugly the left really is.

Sandra Bernhard is the perfect example of a liberal woman:
Plain butt ugly – inside and out!

Jerry - MD   September 30th, 2008 11:37 am ET

This is a woman who was asking what a vice president does in office. You will find the video in huffingtonpost web site. She will do great favor to McCain if she step down due to personal reasons (stupidity, ignorance). Palin has been held by McCain handlers burtally for her not to spill the beans. Free Sarah!! Free Sarah!!

Courtney   September 30th, 2008 11:37 am ET

It's funny that it's only democrats and TWO republicans that want Sarah to step down. I think I smell fear!

Independent FL voter   September 30th, 2008 11:37 am ET

I think it's more appropriate to suggest she might be the next George W. Bush. The parallels are uncanny. Scary, but uncanny.

Debbie in LA   September 30th, 2008 11:37 am ET

Do you think that the McCain people now see that their really isn't any Ocean Front property for sell in Kansas City?

Maybe their eyes are now open!

Mathilda   September 30th, 2008 11:37 am ET

Mitt is right in this context – they are forcing people to focus on her dumbness. As far as "gotcha" journalism – why to the Reps keep badgering this issue? They seem shocked when the media asks her questions, but not when they ask every other candidate questions. Reagan was umpteen times better at "gotcha" journalism than Palin could ever be on a scripted, cliffnoted good day. The Reps keep crying foul and sexism for asking questions. Tell me Hillary Clinton would cry sexism when asked a simple, or even tough question. No, she wouldn't. She would answer the dang question. Obama does cry 'black'. It's not unreasonable to ask questions when you are the candidate for VICE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES. Stop insulting us with this cry baby approach.

Vegas   September 30th, 2008 11:37 am ET

Jared: "You liberals are to funny with your crude ungracious comments…..and I can't wait till Nov 5th to see your reactions…."

Hmm…well, you conservatives are too funny with your crude, ungracious economic irresponsibility, hollow politicians and lack of direction and vision.

Incidentally, I'm no liberal, but I certainly am not asleep at the wheel. At least "try" to disguise your selfishness. Wake up. See you at the Republican bonfire on Nov. 5th!

John   September 30th, 2008 11:37 am ET

In response to the confused person that warned Obama would invite terrorists into our country if elected, sorry, Bush already allowed that a couple of months before 9/11.

carolflowery   September 30th, 2008 11:37 am ET

Gov. Palin would probably been even better than either one

Bill Charlotte,NC   September 30th, 2008 11:37 am ET

Some things are so ridiculous they don't deserve a comment and this is certainly one of them

no to McCain   September 30th, 2008 11:37 am ET

OH HELL NO!

Hmm. Will CNN ever approve this?   September 30th, 2008 11:37 am ET

Sarah Palin, a heartbeat away from the presidency, with a 72 year-old cancer survivor as president? During the worst economic crisis since the Great Depression? While we occupy two nations and face Islamic terrorism across the globe?
We have just suffered through 8 years of George W. Bush–a president who was clearly unqualified and out of his league. Do we really want to put another unqualified person in the executive branch during such troubling times?

Laura   September 30th, 2008 11:37 am ET

On the ' gotacha ' comments mccain made … my favorite quote from McCain was

' that question was ask by a voter .. it does not count '

BY A VOTER!!! hello .. those are the ones you are begging to vote for you two dumbos!

David from Ohio   September 30th, 2008 11:36 am ET

She is a very skilled politician. There is a good reason she is the governor of Alaska.

I actually feel sorry for her. The McCain campaign is doing her a disservice. They are treating her like a well-decorated vase in front of a store. She is there to attract customers. Once these customers come to the store, they've found that this vase is empty without any substance. She needs to be herself when it comes to the foreign matters and national affairs. If the McCain campaign is not doing that, they will be looking for a disastrous debate this Thursday.

Barry in California   September 30th, 2008 11:36 am ET

You have to admit that she is a facsinating pick. On paper, the selection makes no sense of course. But, the Republican party has a track record of getting the ignorant vote, and has done a wonderful job of getting John Q. Public to vote against his /her own self-interest…

Old Republican   September 30th, 2008 11:36 am ET

McCain and Palin visited UN last week. Guess what… It was the "Take your children to work" day in NY….

MsMadame   September 30th, 2008 11:36 am ET

Palin, is a middle-aged, desperate, housewife version of Ms. South Carolina. What a disgrace for the nation!

CJG   September 30th, 2008 11:36 am ET

McCain is really having too many senior moments….

If this does not scare people into voting against McInsane nothing would!

Jay Washington, D.C.   September 30th, 2008 11:36 am ET

If nothing else, Sarah, thanks for the laughs. If McCain/Palin wins, I won't be laughing anymore. You can do it America. Vote for the smart guy. I know he can't bowl. But at least he's smart.

ozzie   September 30th, 2008 11:36 am ET

PALIN IS NO BILL CLINTON. I REALLY THINK TINA FEY IS MORE QUALIFIED. THE ONLY THING SHE HAS GOING FOR HER IS A PAIR OF DESIGNER SPECKS.

Dianne   September 30th, 2008 11:36 am ET

Underestimation? We have a sitting two term president for whom everyone had low expectations prior to debates – Voting for someone who overcame low expectations has been done, and we're playing the price today. I urge everyone to think about their vote – probably the most important vote of their lifetime. If you can honestly say she's qualified to take the "big chair" should something happen to Senator McCain, then go for it. But don't vote for her just because she overcame the lowest expectations for any political candidate in the modern era!

Why is McCain so Angry?   September 30th, 2008 11:36 am ET

Clinton was a RHODES SCHOLAR. Palin took 6 years to graduate with a JOURNALISM degree.

If this wasn't real, you couldn't make it up.

LockeNessMonster   September 30th, 2008 11:36 am ET

What's next, comparisons to Sarah Polk who wrote speeches and advised her husband, James? They are both named "Sarah," ya' know?

Ron T   September 30th, 2008 11:36 am ET

Palin is the next Dan Quayle

Sophia Beck   September 30th, 2008 11:36 am ET

I saw the interview with McCain and Palin- he took her voice away -I couldn't believe that he wouldn't let her answer the question. This clearly showed his macho side and how he devalued a woman's right to her opinion. I don't like Palin or McCain at all and am not a supporter of them but to demean her in front of America tells me he does not value women. Wow I couldn't believe what I saw today-well I knew he was like this but I couldn't believe he behaved this way today on a campaign trail. So women, you think Palin is going to have weight as a VP? Think again-I just witnessed her mean silenced and devalued-Any woman who is voting for this side will surely pay a price!

Christine El Paso   September 30th, 2008 11:36 am ET

Where is all this "Sarah is qualified" stuff coming from? Does anyone listen to this woman when she talks or is it just "oh she's so cute"
Dang someone needs to be given a clue! This woman has no business being a VP of the oldest president ever! Comeon people it would be funny or cute if McCain was 40, but she could very well be the leader of the free world…. She is NO Reagan Or Clinton. Both of those men had vast knowledge of the world around them! After the dissaster of the last 8 year there's no way I'm willing to take the chance on Mrs. Palin!

Linda, Providence, RI   September 30th, 2008 11:36 am ET

What an insult to even mention Palin's name in the same breath as Clinton. Are all you Republicans on drugs. Wake up and smell the coffee she is unqualified to be VP.

Jamaal   September 30th, 2008 11:36 am ET

is today some sort of September Fools? You can't be serious in comparing her to Ronald Regan or Bill Clinton.

Anonymous   September 30th, 2008 11:36 am ET

NOPE
NO
NOT AT ALL
HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA
NO

Sean Chong   September 30th, 2008 11:36 am ET

Obama looks more like the next Bill Clinton. I thought Mccain said that Obama doesn't have enough experience and has no plans? Isn't that reflected in Sarah Palin?

Barbara G   September 30th, 2008 11:36 am ET

It doesn't matter how many degrees you have, you have to have a lot of good sense to go along with it, and I have found that is lakeing in a lot of our politicians. I think John McCain has both, and you stupid people need to get over the fact that a woman is running for Vice President. And to Charles Hampton, you need to check into the mental hospital.

Left by choice   September 30th, 2008 11:36 am ET

Palin is Bush withouth the Brains

Things have got to be bad when even Katie Couric can make you look stupid.

Of the millions of intellegient tough experienced Republican women in this county, McCain picked a hockey mom with the brains of a moose…oops sorry that insulted the moose.

cfl - boston   September 30th, 2008 11:36 am ET

At least Clinton managed to get an education at Yale and Oxford and Reagan had managed a state that has a budget bigger than many countries. I am wondering why Palin managed to change colleges so many times before she finally graduated with a communication degree. Any idea?

Erik   September 30th, 2008 11:36 am ET

Why was McCain there?

It was like getting beaten up by a kid and then bringing your older brother with you to fight back for you.

Who is she going to bring if McCain dies in office? Todd? Rush? A moose?

Chris from Delmar   September 30th, 2008 11:36 am ET

If McCain is elected, I think that before long either Palin will be "persuaded" to resign, or something will "come up" that will force her out. She will have completed her task of electing McCain, and then will be dumped.

Ayo   September 30th, 2008 11:36 am ET

God bless America!

Reality   September 30th, 2008 11:36 am ET

give me a break. Palin is no Clinton or Reagan !!

McCain really is out to lunch !!!

BOBBY K. FROM BIRMINGHAM, AL.   September 30th, 2008 11:35 am ET

Really amused with these comparisons?
Palin is a joke!!!!!

Obama 2008

Eric   September 30th, 2008 11:35 am ET

Are all the liberal comments here an indication that you don't have jobs to do?

No way Jose.   September 30th, 2008 11:35 am ET

McCrazy

gary   September 30th, 2008 11:35 am ET

Palin is an ignorant, delusional,out of touch,stoneage,disaster;and those are her good qualities.she is an absolute disgrace to hold any political office.When John McCain chose this lunatic as his VP choice it guaranteed an Obama win.Any person with an IQ above 90 will never allow this moron to lead in our government.How dare you John McCain for chosing this dangerous stone age lunatic as your VPl!!! I supported you until this.Every since you chose Palin I have volunteered for Obama.

Rosa Birmingham, AL   September 30th, 2008 11:35 am ET

Hello Bill Cliinton was a Rhoads scholar and has an IQ well over 100. Palin went to something like 5 colleges to finally get a degree in Journalism. Her interview with Couric reminded me of that South Carolina beauty queen babling at answers to relatively easy questions.

Tom Swift, Shopton USA   September 30th, 2008 11:35 am ET

`
McCain has no reason to be insulting Ronald Reagan or Bill Clinton like that. What did they ever do to him? Geez

Mike   September 30th, 2008 11:35 am ET

CNN is such a joke. They are obviously supressing any posts that are not supporting their left wing agenda. I am going to enjoy watching their coverage as they admit that their "anointed one" is unable to beat McCain/Palin even after they have tried their best to smash them. The election will not make the left-wing very happy.

Ace   September 30th, 2008 11:35 am ET

I'm not a liberal and don't vote across party lines. When you step back and listen to what all the candidates are saying I truly have no choice but to vote for Obama. McCain creeps me out. He has lost all credibility and his tactics throughout this campaign are a disgrace.

Every time I hear him speak I feel like I am watching the SPIN Bush administration at it's worst. The fact that he chose a running mate that is not qualified at all is a grave disservice to all American's. His first most important decision and this is what he does.

All I can say is he must have the worst advisor's in the world!

Sharp   September 30th, 2008 11:35 am ET

Who ever came up with this idea must be crazier than Mccain.

Andre   September 30th, 2008 11:35 am ET

i CAN NOT BELIEVE HOW ALL THOSE INDIVIDUALS LISTED ABOVE ARE SO IRRESPONSIBLE, EVEN FRESH

DEMOCRATS I AM CERTAIN OF THAT. WHAT CAN YOU EXPECT FROM THEM….

ANDRE

Gabe   September 30th, 2008 11:35 am ET

I can't believe someone has the stones to compare Sarah Palin to Bill Clinton.

Clinton-Attorney, Arkansas Attorney General (2 years), Arkansas Governor (12 years), University Lecturer, Rhodes Scholar, Education at Georgetown, Oxford and Yale degree in Law.

Palin- Wasilla City Council (4 years), Wasilla Mayor (2 years), Alaska Governor (2 years) Hockey Mom Education University of Idaho and five other colleges just to earn a Bachelors in Journalism.

Give me a break. Wake up America. A "breath of fresh air" doesn't solve job losses, rebuild foreign relations, and remedy our nations economic turmoil.

Palin-maniac   September 30th, 2008 11:35 am ET

McCain is WAY off base;
Sarah Palin is no less that the next George Washington, Thomas Jefferson…
Heck! She's a walking Mount Rushmore of Presidential power! This debate Thursday will turn the whole game around, soothe markets all over the world and bring peace and prosperity to every corner of this world!!
Palin for Life!!!!!!!!

jason   September 30th, 2008 11:35 am ET

she's ditzy, gulible, knows next to nothing about the country, and seems to think talking to the media should be all fun and games.

clearly, the next Bush…

Rose   September 30th, 2008 11:35 am ET

»VOTE with your BRAIN!»VOTE McCain!!«

Debbie   September 30th, 2008 11:35 am ET

McCain/Palin = The Bridge to NOWHERE!

Redneck from Kentucky   September 30th, 2008 11:35 am ET

WHAT???? This woman is no Ronald Reagan and certainly not another Bill Clinton. Her political prowess is not even in the same league. Her speaking ability is not even in their league. She might make a good Senator for Alaska and in that postioin she might even learn something about foreign and domestic affairs. Lord knows she doesn't have a grasp of those issues at this point in time.

Brandon - Gahanna, Ohio   September 30th, 2008 11:35 am ET

Just about the stupidest thing I've ever heard. I'm a Republican, and Palin is about the worst VP candidate I've ever seen. It's so bad I'm going to be leaning Democrat this time around. Obama/Biden 08

Rob   September 30th, 2008 11:34 am ET

the straight talk xpress has finally lost all their wheels–did they hit him in the head

Steve Ward   September 30th, 2008 11:34 am ET

Bill Clinton was a Rhodes Scholar. Ms. Palin is certainly not a Rhodes Scholar. Nice try.

Rob   September 30th, 2008 11:34 am ET

an answer to a voter doesn't count? how can that be considered a gotcha? she answers questions like she were in a beauty pagent and grampa steps in pats her on the head and makes things better.

Will - OKC   September 30th, 2008 11:34 am ET

Wow this interview was beyond pathetic.

The way McCain would not let her speak was offensive and just sad. It was like watching a parent-teacher conference, with a teenage Palin bringing her daddy to scold the mean lady, Principal Couric.

Andrea   September 30th, 2008 11:34 am ET

McCan't left out George Bush, Gov. of Texas!!!!

Obama/Biden 08

Fritz   September 30th, 2008 11:34 am ET

The Couric interview was a disaster. Total disaster.
McCain retracting Palin's comments on Pakistan (rather than Palin retracting Palin's comments) was simply pathetic and very insulting to Palin. Palin is a good public speaker – but is not an orator as we saw with Katie Couric.
So the answer is "No" Palin is not the next Ronald Reagan and not the next Bill Clinton. She may be being underestimated now – but it sure looks like she was overestimated earlier.

The guy that is smarter than you   September 30th, 2008 11:34 am ET

On November 5th, Sarah Palin will be the answer to a trivia question. That will be her biggest accomplishment.

fred   September 30th, 2008 11:34 am ET

Couldn't they at least have found a better picture for this article. That's the worst picture of Palin that I've ever seen

ThinkaboutIT   September 30th, 2008 11:34 am ET

I know Bill Clinton, and Sarah Palin, you are no Bill Clinton!

JJ   September 30th, 2008 11:34 am ET

I find it interesting, as well as dismaying, that people choose the route of personal attacks on the candidates' intelligence and sanity, as opposed to reasoned critiques of their positions or at least coherent statements illustrating their opposition to the candidates' positions. Comments like "obviously insane" or "peanut brain" are not rational political discourse, but rather ad hominem attacks, and the lowest form of argument. If you disagree with someone, at least form a cogent statement about your disagreement.

Garp   September 30th, 2008 11:34 am ET

»McCain!….McCain!…M…McCain. Yes.

PADem   September 30th, 2008 11:34 am ET

MCAINNOW! September 30th, 2008 11:10 am ET

The dems is scared of beautiful Sarah she will kill the Russians before they attack us at home!!!!!!!! America hating Obama will invite terrorists here and give them our jobs. VOTE JOHN AND SARAH!!!!!

McCainNow… you should probably just go and live in a cave somewhere. Your level of ignorance is frightening. Have you paid attention to any of the election coverage whatsoever? Or to proper grammar and punctuation? You are exactly the demographic McCain is hoping to appeal to- someone who can't look beyond the fact that Palin is an attractive woman and that Obama isn't white. It's sad that there are still "americans" like you out there.

Nick   September 30th, 2008 11:34 am ET

Palin's the next Dan Quayle, and that's being generous.

NK   September 30th, 2008 11:34 am ET

Very sad!!!!!!!!!!! McCain?Palin victory and I am moving out of the country!!

simmons   September 30th, 2008 11:34 am ET

why ! are we going thought this with Sarah Palin an McClain she isn't education for the job. My 8 year old son is more smarter then she is. Put her on are you smarter then a 5th grade and see what happen.

Just Human   September 30th, 2008 11:33 am ET

The answer is…NO/NEITHER.

anonymous   September 30th, 2008 11:33 am ET

Justin – you are so out of touch! McCain's medical records have been released. All of his doctors say he is fit, etc. Since CNN is a biased media for NOBAMA and the democRATS, few genuine Republican blogs get entered. If you want the truth, try reading, listening to unbiased sources. I look at these for a good laugh. And, Margi, you are the one stuck on stupid.

Joe   September 30th, 2008 11:33 am ET

more like Bullwinkle

Lew   September 30th, 2008 11:33 am ET

Exactly what kind of drugs is this man on? Wow, denial and delusion can be powerful emotions.

Pat   September 30th, 2008 11:33 am ET

To mention the name Sarah Palin in the same universe with Bill Clinton, let alone the same article/paragraph/sentence, is totally unforgivable!
She could never come close to being like Bill Clinton or even Ronald Reagan for that matter! I understand that McCain feels she is being underestimated and it's nice that he has confidence in her abilities but then that just goes to show you how bad his judgement is…not hers! I feel sorry for her and I hope she figures it out soon that she's being used for the group she brings to the table and not for her intelligence or abilities.

Susan   September 30th, 2008 11:33 am ET

McCain has entered into the theatre of the absurd! Insulting Reagan and Clinton will not bring Palin's poll numbers up.

Can't wait to see yall too.   September 30th, 2008 11:33 am ET

Yeah, we will be celabrating while McFunny will have to change his diaper. Hahahahaha

MK,Detroit, MI   September 30th, 2008 11:33 am ET

Senator McCain's choice of VP Mrs. Palin means that he put his country LAST not FIRST, she is clearly unqualified and has absolutely no foreign policy experience or knowledge. Who are they trying to kid?

OBAMA/BIDEN 08

Speechless   September 30th, 2008 11:33 am ET

Please!

PCS / North Carolina   September 30th, 2008 11:33 am ET

Did Palin graduate from High School ? Did she elope with Todd prior to graduation ?Her irrational answers, lack of understanding of the basic national policies are truly scary. Image is everything in America, vote for GOP and we will get what we deserve.

Veteran for Obama   September 30th, 2008 11:32 am ET

How dare you compare this loser with Regan and Clinton!!! Everyday McCain proves just how much he has lost it!!!

Drexel   September 30th, 2008 11:32 am ET

OMG, are these two on the lower end of the smart scale or what? You would think at this stage of the game that one would be able to speak without the other helping.
what a freaking joke these two are, when they lose they should go on the road with this material.

Pamela McGregor   September 30th, 2008 11:32 am ET

Why the comparison?
Leave her to be herself. Why do they need to defend her credentials?
They speak for themselves. Why has First Dude not campaigned, like Jill Biden has?
McCain and Romney are in a meltdown. They have both lost it. I thought that Romney would have kept himself out of the fray. McCain essentially "Iraqed" him on the war timetable issue. T

Izzy   September 30th, 2008 11:32 am ET

Anyone who believes that about Palin has been smoking "something funny!"

Truth be told   September 30th, 2008 11:32 am ET

The democrats lost the GE when they rigged their primary so Obama would be the eventual nominee.

Palin has to do nothing at all. We all watched the WORTHY HRC be unfairly gutted by hate and trashed in filthy and foul ways. We all witnessed the insults and sexist denigration of a great FEMALE leader.

So we won't allow the lesser Palin suffer the same fate.
It is about human decency and respect- not winning by any means possible.

Dems never should have sabotaged Hillary just to install their glorious Obama.

They doomed their own party by subverting the democratic process.

Sad but true.

Has nothing to do with race or gender- other than the fact that the female candidate who was the BEST candidate of a lifetime was treated with disrespect and was mocked and jeered and insulted and swiftboated by her own party because she was NOT young, black and male.

sue in Colorado   September 30th, 2008 11:32 am ET

Sarah is plainly, clearly, out of her league. Unless she has a speech in front of her, she really seems to struggle. I almost feel sorry for her, until I remember that she is running for the second most powerful position in the country. Then I feel very scared and angry that she would even apply for this job. How reckless and arrogant. Our country can do much better.

Since when is it better to have a candidate with a cute personality who can throw a good zinger (written by a speech writer) better then having the best, smartest candidate this country can provide? Remember, people looked the other way when George Bush was running- they saw him as a guy with "common sense", someone who you would like to have a beer with. They didn't care so much about his business failings, his military failings, his poor grades in college- they liked having a cheerleader instead. And we got more of the same- unintelligent choices, business failings and war. It takes intelligence, energy, political savy to run this country, especially in this critical time in our history.

Please wake up America. Sarah Palin is a nice person, but is not qualified for this job. Even before she opens her mouth, she is just not qualified on paper. We can't have another G.W.

Rob   September 30th, 2008 11:32 am ET

the man is truly on medication–he screwed up and can't even admit it

Sure Palin is like .Regan dead–just like both of their careers

dave   September 30th, 2008 11:32 am ET

OK, I get it — it's the evil liberal media. It's the Democrats playing childish politics. So if we just get rid of the media and the Democrats, McCain will have no problems. Seems realistic. What a strong leader McCain is.

SC in DC   September 30th, 2008 11:32 am ET

Notice that when McCain compares Palin to Bill Clinton, he only compares their political shortcomings — not their strengths. In her brief press availability, Sarah Palin has already demonstrated that she can't even keep her talking points straight — It is unimaginable that she could convincingly imitate even John McCain's simplistic understanding of the world around us.
There are different degrees of inexperience, and any comparison of Sarah Palin's preparedness and potential to that of then-governor Bill Clinton must find her gravely lacking. Same for any comparison of her readiness to that of Biden or Obama — or even McCain.

Joe   September 30th, 2008 11:32 am ET

" September 30th, 2008 11:10 am ET

Keep dis-respecting Palin "a woman," the same way Hillary was disrespected and Palin will have a movement/cause come election day that would put McCain in the WH."

We will keep disrespecting your PUMAS because you are vicious, illogical little twits. After the Dems win back the white house, the first time we hear you complaining we're going to tell you where to stick it.

Matt   September 30th, 2008 11:32 am ET

I wonder what it is like to have to lie every day of your life. What an irresponsible man…and a complete sell-out. Bring back the 2000 McCain!

Obama / Biden '08…because, this time, I want a SMART president.

David   September 30th, 2008 11:32 am ET

Uhh… McCain must be out of his mind. Reagan (though I disliked him) was still the governor of California (largest state) and Bill Clinton was governor of Arkansas for 11 or 12 years. McCain is losing it.

Martha   September 30th, 2008 11:32 am ET

Reagan a cowboy. McCain did not even give the man credit for 8 years as a governor. Bill Clinton, 9 years as a governor. How does Palin stack up to those two individuals?

McCain is Clueless   September 30th, 2008 11:32 am ET

Sarah Palin is NO Bill Clinton, NO Ronald Reagan, and definitely NO Hiiliary Clinton. McCain can try to blame Palin's ignorance of important issues on the media, but the fact is regardless how the Republicans try to spin it, she is just plain incompetent and unfit for office. MCain knew it when he used extremely poor judgment in picking in her the first place. It is why she has been completely hidden from all media, even her own press, that follows her around the campaign. Primarily, it is Republicans who are now calling her "in over her head" and telling her to leave the campaign. Others are saying to let Palin be Palin. We have seen the real Palin and she has been found grossly lacking. No one, not even her own Party is now willing to let her be 2nd in line behind a 72 yr old McCain whose heallth and mind are fast failing. She and McCain are extremely dangerous for America – not only in their views but also in their competence to lead. Obama and Biden are the best and the most intellgent choice as leaders for our nation.

MJ   September 30th, 2008 11:32 am ET

Two conservatives that sit more in the middle is way better than two idiots that lean so far to the left they need a crutch to keep from falling over. The young people of this country better get it right .

HTA, Chicago, IL   September 30th, 2008 11:32 am ET

to Earl

You forgot to mention that Clinton was a Yale educated lawyer. It's frankly tough to get into that school and he had no connections at the time. He's a rags to riches story.

Go Obama!   September 30th, 2008 11:32 am ET

OMG! I am not even going to entertain that comment.

I'll honestly believe Chelsa Clinton is more qualified to be VP!

laughing all the way to a democratic victory   September 30th, 2008 11:31 am ET

To even pretend that Palin is in the same league as Reagan and Clinton is another blow at the stupidity of America. If there is one American that thinks this woman even comes close to having the thought process of a presidential candidate, I bet they live in Alaska, shoot animals from helicopters, wear lipstick to a hockey game, and wear high heals and socks. Enough said. What a stupid comparison.

DanQuale   September 30th, 2008 11:31 am ET

I take exception to anyone comparing me to Sarah Palin! I may have occasionally mangled a sentence and misspelled potatoe, but my political philosophy wasn't to the right of Atilla The Hun!

Andrew   September 30th, 2008 11:31 am ET

Half of McCain is senile. The other half's a liar.

gl   September 30th, 2008 11:31 am ET

Never Barak Obama (PUMA) – Obama don't need your stupid votes and they are not enough to stop Obama from winning this election.
PUMA=votes we don't need to win.

Tom Swift, Shopton USA   September 30th, 2008 11:31 am ET

`

`

How's about the next Carter? Billy Carter, that is.

`

Garp from Florida   September 30th, 2008 11:31 am ET

»VOTE with your BRAIN!…»VOTE McCain!!«

Don   September 30th, 2008 11:31 am ET

The dogs bark, but the caravan goes on. I think Palin is going to surprise a lot of people. Clinton himself has seems to have his hopes up. It's pretty obvious that wants McCain to win.

Fred   September 30th, 2008 11:31 am ET

There is a fundamental difference here. Mr. Clinton and Mr. Regan both had an understanding of international relations and economic theory. We can disagree with their position in the political spectrum. However, we must admit that they had an understanding of the fundamental forces at work both politically and economically in the world around them. Mrs. Palin's recent interview was a sobering reminder that an endearing presence and cute colloquialisms have nothing to do with basic understanding of political theory, international relations, or economics. The truth of the matter is that she seems very nice, but with all due respect, is dangerously unqualified to lead this country.

Amber   September 30th, 2008 11:31 am ET

"Jared said:
You liberals are to funny with your crude ungracious comments…..and I can't wait till Nov 5th to see your reactions…."

Do you understand economics at all? You don't, do you?

I have yet to meet a single McCain supporter that really understands the difference between tax rate cuts and tax cuts, and can defend McCain's economic policies.

It's always "He's a straight talker, he seems like an honest guy. He's honorable, not like that elitist, Obama, who only cares about himself." You people, you voters who don't understand the issues, you are the most dangerous threat to America. You are 10x more dangerous than Osama bin Laden ever will be.

KG   September 30th, 2008 11:31 am ET

I would rather have a fresh face in the white house like Sarah Palin that would try harder , then a suave guy who thinks he is already president with a do nothing attitude ,that would be obama. obama wanted the bale out on wall street to get his buddy off the hook. You could probably make a safe bet that obama has made his share from wall street and wants us citizens all to foot the bill.

MA   September 30th, 2008 11:31 am ET

McCain has really lost it.

Clinton = Rhodes Scholar, Lawyer, Two term governor.

Palin = BA in Journalism, 6 colleges in 6 years, less than two years as governor.

There should not be any comparision of the two.

Hey, I spent six years in college( finished with three degrees), can see the white house from my office (Domestic Policy expereince) , spent a summer backpacking in Europe (Foreign Policy experience), and was governor during girl's state (executive experience). Can I be vice president?

Erik on Wall St.   September 30th, 2008 11:31 am ET

Garp – you sound almost as ignorant as Palin herself! In fact, I suspect you may indeed be Palin posting here to defend yourself! Shouldn't you be at debate camp and studying up on all those issues you never thought about before?

Angie, Phoenix Arizona   September 30th, 2008 11:31 am ET

I really have no words. McCain es loco.

Garp from Colorado   September 30th, 2008 11:30 am ET

»VOTE with your BRAIN!»VOTE McCain!!«

Kevin   September 30th, 2008 11:30 am ET

Give me a break, this woman don't know crap! Yes I said it, she don't know CRAP!

McFunny???   September 30th, 2008 11:30 am ET

In your dreams Johnny Boy. Bill Clinton is a political genius, and R.R. was literate, and was veiwed as everyday man. Mrs Palin is a clown at best. I can't stop myself from laughing.

MikeH   September 30th, 2008 11:30 am ET

Looks like I'm being censored again. Hey I was the one who pointed out and protested that overtly racist post by "Obama bin laden", why am I now being censored? CNN should fire the moderator who let that racist comment get posted.

John   September 30th, 2008 11:30 am ET

Don't ever say McCain isn't pulling out every punch to save his campaign.

But any kind of inferrence of this comparison at any level is plain dumb. Not only is she not in the same league as either former president, but she hasn't shown the nation any indication of the validity in his statement.

And please explain why McCain had to accompany Palin BACK on CBS? Is he going to be standing beside her tonight to clarify any mistakes?

Shane   September 30th, 2008 11:30 am ET

to those people saying release the medical records—–he already did that you fools

Fritz   September 30th, 2008 11:30 am ET

ROFLMAO!!! McCain has lost his mind. To answer the question "Is Palin the next Bill Clinton or Ronald Reagan"? The answer is no.

john   September 30th, 2008 11:30 am ET

Why did he not mention Bush as the quintessential "cowboy governor"?

Benny   September 30th, 2008 11:30 am ET

"Garp of Cosmos Rocks September 30th, 2008 11:11 am ET

»Sarah Palin=BRILLIANT Lady=HONEST Leader=Our next Vice-President. Yes."

You, my friend, are mentally retarded. They don't get any dumber than you.

Helena   September 30th, 2008 11:30 am ET

If McCain isn't scaring us now, what will? With 1 in 5 chances he won't make it through 4 years, what will our country become. How can anyone in their right mind compare Palin to Clinton or Reagan? He is deluded and unstable. If he becomes the leader of our country and the free world, I fear this war monger. I fear a nuclear war and the end of time.

Shannon   September 30th, 2008 11:30 am ET

Thats funny did snl write this??? Hes COCO!!!!

RepublicanTurnedDemocrat   September 30th, 2008 11:30 am ET

Silly McCain. Ronald and Bill were great speakers and intellects. They were well read and did their homework. Palin is a joke. Can she say what are democracy, capitalism, free markets, socialism, bill of rights, etc etc? I bet she and McCain will fail to define any of them properly. One can go to war and another kill an helpless animal. Please give me a break 0

Eileen   September 30th, 2008 11:30 am ET

I am a single mom from rural PA. I do not believe that Obama could understand what is important to me and so many others in this area. Neither do I believe that McCain can. Palin, I think, can. She is a mother of a teenager as well as the mother of a child with a disability. She is not "prissy, prim or proper" – she is down to earth. She can hunt and fish just like we do here (yes – that's how we put food on the table).
She may not be a great debater or a great speaker. She has to hone those skills. There are a lot of things that we have to be taught. She is no different but she is a smart woman and will do great things. Don't under-estimate her.

Chris Ohio   September 30th, 2008 11:30 am ET

He seems to have forgotten his cap these days…..Watz-up Mc? Is Sarah Palin causing you to leave your cap behind on the campaign trail?

Kayce   September 30th, 2008 11:30 am ET

John McCain, are you high? Palin is the next Reagan or Clinton??? You have got to be kidding! Palin is not who you or fellow republicans thought she was. Was she the best you could do? Your arrogance is blatant and among other things, it's going to cost you this election. It is time for change and fresh air in the white house. Your stale aroma is not it!

spot99   September 30th, 2008 11:30 am ET

Sarah Palin has been the most popular and effective governor currently in country. She is new to the national scene, and to any objective observer, the media is biased against her (as evidenced by their disinterest in Biden's gaffes which are far more profound than Palin's.) Gov. Palin should return to just being herself, that's what got her the popularity and confidence here in Alaska.

Garp   September 30th, 2008 11:30 am ET

»Governor Palin!…Sarah Palin!…= I LOVE YOU!…Oooh!…

rainbowgirl   September 30th, 2008 11:30 am ET

Gotcha journalism? Why is asking a Vice Presidential candidate a question about an attack on Pakistan called gotcha journalism? Anyone running for Vice President should know how to answer that question!

Jen, Gainesville   September 30th, 2008 11:29 am ET

With no good options left, McCain is again playing the Palin card. Not clear who is bailing out who at this point?

McCain bailed out Palin in the last interview with Katie Couric last night. Now his hope is that Palin or the distraction of Palin will bail out McCain in the next few days from the crisis circus that McCain has created.

ObamaBidenFan   September 30th, 2008 11:29 am ET

How dare this incompetent WOMAN even think she could be Vice President? Doesn't she know her place? It's disgraceful that she was ever allowed to run for anything!! She should be at home taking care of her kids and leave running the nation to the big boys.

Go ObamaBiden 2008!!!!! All the way!!! The right MEN for the job!!!

K   September 30th, 2008 11:29 am ET

LOL, the woman is not worthy of being compared to Perot or Dole or even Quayle and they want us to compare her to CLINTON or REAGAN??
Get REAL America, this has gotten way out of hand

prjsuzieq   September 30th, 2008 11:29 am ET

Palin was interviewed at a "Cheesecake Factory" ????? good lord. That's about the only place they'll trust her to go, obviously.

Dave from Menifee   September 30th, 2008 11:29 am ET

McCain should not have compare her to Clinton it's not fair to her. in time she might become a good governor but right now she not close to running this government.

Brasil   September 30th, 2008 11:29 am ET

‘After he came home, Carol walked with a limp. So he threw her over for a poster girl with big money from Arizona. And the rest is history. Ted Sampley, who fought with US Special Forces in Vietnam and is now a leading campaigner for veterans’ rights, said: ‘I have been following John McCain’s career for nearly 20 years. I know him personally. There is something wrong with this guy and let me tell you what it is – deceit.

‘When he came home and saw that Carol was not the beauty he left behind, he started running around on her almost right away. Everybody around him knew it.

Farrell, Houston, Tx   September 30th, 2008 11:29 am ET

Okay, all together now, John McCain believes we are all crazy because of what Palin herself says, now he wants to take away our freedoms of hearing and opinion. McCain also believed the economy is fundamentally sound and in one day found out it wasn't and rushed to Washington to save the day. John McCain is unfit to lead our country anywhere.

Beverly, NYC   September 30th, 2008 11:29 am ET

I think both men should be insulted to be compared to this brainless hood ornament.

Garp McCain & Cosmos ROCKS! September 30th, 2008 10:42 am ET Americans!»VOTE WISELY=VOTE McCain/Palin=2 TRUE AMERICANS

Can Mccain be considered an American since he was born in Panama?

Reality Check   September 30th, 2008 11:29 am ET

How about the next Gumby!!

Cindy from NC   September 30th, 2008 11:29 am ET

I am not voting for McCain, I think he is shady character BUT I really thinks it's ashame that they are hiding Sarah Palin. I believe the McCain campaign is making her out to be some type of joke.

Again, I don't like her but I don't think she got to be governor by dodging the media and hiding. As a woman, we don't work like that and I am very suprised that she is allowing herself to be used and manipulated by the McCain camp.

I really want to see if she is for real or a joke.

Difference between a pitbull and Obama.   September 30th, 2008 11:29 am ET

Dems never should have sabotaged Hillary just to install their glorious Obama.

They doomed their own party by subverting the democratic process.

Sad but true.

Has nothing to do with race or gender- other than the fact that the female candidate who was the BEST candidate of a lifetime was treated with disrespect and was mocked and jeered and insulted and swiftboated by her own party because she was NOT young, black and male.

Samilton   September 30th, 2008 11:29 am ET

Palin is not ready for the position of VP. MCCain was looking to stir up "excitement" at the risk of this country. He's using her for just that. She has got to know in her heart that she is out of her league. VP of the US? where is her husband? He should have her back by telling her the truth – she's not ready. McCain's judgement on this one is clear – he has none. He put his campaign before his country.

Question: What happens to this country if Palin is VP and for some reason becomes the President of the US? Folks who we have not elected will have to step in a lead her as President. The President is the leader – right? We will all be in trouble.

Sarah, I know that you know in your spirit that you are out of your league. Follow your heart – and go back to being Governor of Alaska.

O8bamaWins   September 30th, 2008 11:29 am ET

Bwaah!!!! I just spit out my coffee. This woman is so stupid that it puts ALL of us in danger. SHAME on you McCain. You are a carpetbagger like no other. There is no longer a SHRED of integrity left in you. You sad, sad old man. You idiots who support her need to wake up from the Bush nightmare.

Angela   September 30th, 2008 11:29 am ET

Well McCain, Palin as president is what we are worried about!!!

She can be a heart beat away from saying, I am president of America and I can see Russia from my house!!!!

jim of tampa bay   September 30th, 2008 11:29 am ET

I was suprised and discusted with Mr. McCain's selection and indorsement of Mrs. Palin. I think this was the beginning of the end for him. I voted for him in the primary, but, it's very clear to me now that Mr. Obama should be the choice to lead our country. Underestimmated!? I would say Overestimated!

Garp   September 30th, 2008 11:29 am ET

»VOTE with your BRAIN!!…»VOTE McCain!!!…«

MsMadame   September 30th, 2008 11:29 am ET

Palin, is Rove/Cheney biblical-submissive woman! She will continue their ruinious GOP rule while they smirk behind in the shadows.

Ian in Boulder, CO   September 30th, 2008 11:29 am ET

Let me get this straight… Sen. McCain is now trying to offend both Hillary Clinton' suporters and Reagan republicans by comparing Sarah Palin to Pres. Reagan and Pres. Clinton? The two constituencies whose support he desperately needs to have any chance of winning on Nov 4th? Brilliant!

Accountant Guy   September 30th, 2008 11:29 am ET

OMG, are you kidding me. This has to be a joke, right? Once again McBush shows he lacks good judgement and makes rash decisions!!

Obama/Biden '08

stee1962   September 30th, 2008 11:28 am ET

Letterman's right: somebody MUST be putting something in his Metamucil…

Free Speech for Mccain   September 30th, 2008 11:28 am ET

Palin and Mccain both Support free speech in politics and thats why they have my vote.. they will never try to silence an opinion.

Steve - Minneapolis, MN   September 30th, 2008 11:28 am ET

I'm continually amazed at how willing McCain supporters are to accept mediocrity. She is as ignorant as she is beautiful.

Lorraine   September 30th, 2008 11:28 am ET

Comparing her to either Reagan or Clinton strains all credibility. What McCain fails to understand that in the internet age and a 24 hour news cycle, anyone and everyone has the ability to see and analyze Ms. Palin for themselves, rather than rely on his interpretation of events. And since the McCain campaign is keeping her on an extremely tight leash and acting as a chaperone during interviews and campaign rallies, it seems that he has little confidence in her abilities as well.

Garp =I am in Love with PALIN!   September 30th, 2008 11:28 am ET

»VOTE with your BRAIN!»VOTE McCAIN!!!…«

Brian MacDougall   September 30th, 2008 11:28 am ET

Ooops. Game over. McCain tied himself closely to the bailout bill, and its failure has cost him significantly in the polls.

Now he's predicting that Palin is going to stun the populace with her erudition at the debate? By all accounts, that's unlikely. Another 5 points down the rabbit hole.

Larry/TX   September 30th, 2008 11:28 am ET

John is doing his usual thing…."double down"…rather than do or say anything that amounts to an admission that he erred. His judgement, already a questionable issue with his growing "shoot from the hip" reputation, would be fair game once again. Noone, but the most rabid intelluctally challenged Palin supporters, would argue that she doesn't have serious issues…that clearly make her unsuitable for the job.

Sharleen   September 30th, 2008 11:28 am ET

Are you kidding me?

She couldn't even get a coherent answer to Katie Couric on the bailout.

If she can't handle Couric, how the heck would she be able to deal with the leaders of Pakistan, Iran, China, Venezula or any other country?

God save us from her, please.

idiots for McPalin   September 30th, 2008 11:28 am ET

where are the HRC supporters shouldn't they be getting angry that Palin is considered the substitute hillary and now she is being compared to Bill Clinton???

You guys only get mad at blacks who beat you? Not at the correct people.

Irony   September 30th, 2008 11:28 am ET

McCain is getting goofy in the head!

Bruce   September 30th, 2008 11:28 am ET

McCain is betting his life on Ms Palin.

Randy   September 30th, 2008 11:28 am ET

OK, now we know McCain has lost his marbles…..Palin = Bill Clinton and R. Reagan…..WOW, it's scary how out of touch with reality he actually is

jolsonsdesigns   September 30th, 2008 11:28 am ET

There's a big difference between Reagan and Clinton having had no experience and Palin having a complete lack of intelligence.

Stephen in Texas   September 30th, 2008 11:28 am ET

What! Reagan was an actor with national exposure long before becoming governor. He was governor of a very large and populated state.

Clinton was governor for 12 years before becoming president and he was a Rhodes Scholar, Yale Law School, constitutional law professor before becoming Arkansas Attorney General.

Come'on McCain, you've got to do better than that.

Donna   September 30th, 2008 11:28 am ET

To Bing

Gee it is funny I saw Obama in an interview this morning and guess who he was sitting next to? Yep – Biden. so don't try that crap – they all do it but oh it is OK for Obama/Biden but not McCain/Palin.

CG   September 30th, 2008 11:28 am ET

Okay-it's possible she could develop into a formidable national pol if she survives this election with her credibility not completely shot. However, she is not there yet-not even close-not even within sight of the ballpark. Unless Biden completely tanks the debate and/or she turns in a "one for the ages" performance, she is officially on the back burner until 2012.

HTA, Chicago, IL   September 30th, 2008 11:28 am ET

Bill Clinton never bombed a crucial interview. Palin did.
Bill Clinton showed that he was articulate AND smart. Palin has done only one of those things. I'll let you figure that out.

McHoover Would Destroy What's Left of America   September 30th, 2008 11:28 am ET

I would agree that her brain activity is very close to Reagan's at the moment

As long as Bill is still has brain activity I would have to disagree with Mr McDelusional

Gary, Detroit   September 30th, 2008 11:27 am ET

MCAINNOW !
You sound like a paranoid lunatic.

Ray   September 30th, 2008 11:27 am ET

I've been a true Republican for the last 30 years but cannot in good faith support Senator McCain after his desperate choice of someone with so unqualfied as Sarah Palin. I believe that this cheap theatrical stunt has cost him the White House. If he had merely wanted a woman as a vice-president, there were far more respectable candidates that he could have chosen. Shame on you Senator McCain for even daring to say that you put Country First when should you die, you leave America with someone like Sarah Palin to be the next President.

Boise Idaho   September 30th, 2008 11:27 am ET

She is like clinton in that she is a good looking individual. That's where it ends. Bill is smart and charismatic. She is a stupid redneck.
It's just that simple.

Susie   September 30th, 2008 11:27 am ET

Is McCain off his meds again??? Or maybe he needs stronger doses.

How could anyone compare Palin to anyone like Clinton or Reagen??

Garp =I am in Love with PALIN!   September 30th, 2008 11:27 am ET

»Sarah Palin=WONDERFUL!:US next Vice-President.

Omar - Brooklyn   September 30th, 2008 11:27 am ET

There wasn't a single question Couric asked that was a "gotcha"-type. Palin wasn't prepared. She appeared very nervous during the Gibson interview, and that Bush doctrine question was a legitimate question. Even after the question was clarified, Palin's response consisted of a simplistic talking point.

In Disbelief   September 30th, 2008 11:27 am ET

McCain still won't let Palin speak for herself! He has to chaperone her to an interview and interject before letting her answer questions. How much faith does this imply?

I find myself growing impatient with him. He picked her, now let her get out and show her stuff. Biden makes gaffes, too (as we all know), but Obama doesn't race to his side to help him backpedal.

I used to think John McCain was a clear-headed, even-keeled free-thinker. No more. He's lost my vote.

Chipster   September 30th, 2008 11:27 am ET

Garp: "I LOVE Sarah Palin!!…I am NOT dumb."

;-)

That's a Non Sequitur, perhaps the Non Sequitur of the Day!

Frank in NYC   September 30th, 2008 11:27 am ET

Ronald Reagan was a great leader at a time when we needed someone strong to win the Cold War. Bill Clinton was and is a great leader who lead us to properity in the 90's.
Sarah Palin is not ready for primetime.

Elly   September 30th, 2008 11:27 am ET

Mcain has been downright irresponsible to himself and the American people by picking such an inexperienced VP as Palin and its terrifying to think someone so out of touch with issues would be a hearbeat away from the presidency
Shame on him….he should know better with his experience in the senate
the white house to him is all about power at any cost!!!
Wake up and change the country
Obama-Biden08

Chirs, Michigan   September 30th, 2008 11:27 am ET

McCain still thinks he can put lipstick on this pig.

Shame that the POW is now suffering mental illness.

Let Him Retire.

Jayson in San Diego   September 30th, 2008 11:27 am ET

But she lives close to Russia! She can see Putin rear his head out of the cockpits of the Russian fighter jets!

NE   September 30th, 2008 11:27 am ET

John McCain is completely wrong on this one! Can't wait until Thursday night when she proves it to the country.

McCain/Palin go home   September 30th, 2008 11:27 am ET

McCain has lost it. Spin spin spin is all he has. She's not a Reagan or Clinton. She's a much weaker version of George W. Bush. That's a non-success story I'm tired of repeating.

Obama/Biden 2008/2012

b   September 30th, 2008 11:27 am ET

It's a new low. McCain has become a laughingstock. I hope his reputation isn't permanently damaged after he loses this race.

Brasil   September 30th, 2008 11:27 am ET

McCain has no morals… that is why he left his first wife for a much young and rich women!

zydeco D   September 30th, 2008 11:27 am ET

IT SEEMS VERY STRANGE THAT A PERSON WITH A JOURNALISM DEGREE CAN NOT TAKE QUESTIONS FORM JOURNILIST?

John   September 30th, 2008 11:27 am ET

McCain increasingly looks like a drowning man flailing his arms. For his soulmate's debate, maybe he can borrow the box that Bush had on his back, under his coat during the last debate with John Kerry. It helped him not look like the fool that he is; it could help Palin.

MBFLA   September 30th, 2008 11:27 am ET

Yes, Sarah Palin has been holding back the fact that she is a Rhodes Scholar….. NOT! What in the world is John McCain thinking?

Don Barshay   September 30th, 2008 11:27 am ET

ARE YOU PEOPLE SERIOUS? GET REAL!

Kelley James   September 30th, 2008 11:27 am ET

What is wrong with McCain. How would you expect his to get us out of this mess. He has really lost it.

Dennis   September 30th, 2008 11:27 am ET

The better comparison should be Palin=Quayle

Casey, Minneapolis, MN   September 30th, 2008 11:27 am ET

To even suggest that Sarah Palin could EVER be in the same league Bill Clinton is ridiculous and offensive to anyone with an ounce of intelligence.

R.M.   September 30th, 2008 11:27 am ET

Its a joke even to compare this stupid lady to Ronald or Bill. Is CNN out of its mind?

Gee, Alabama   September 30th, 2008 11:27 am ET

John McCain is pushing an agenda his own party does not believe in.
If anything that has become painfully clear last yesterday

nalini   September 30th, 2008 11:27 am ET

GARP from Ohio, you have got to be kiddin man

Ellie in Aurora, CO   September 30th, 2008 11:27 am ET

John McCain has put this country is serious peril by selecting the most unqualified candidate ever for vice president. The thought of this woman so close to the most powerful position in the world should have us all beyond afraid. As was so elequently stated by one of the news commentators, it's not that she doesn't know the answers, it's that she doesn't understand the questions

Jon   September 30th, 2008 11:27 am ET

I can see the comparison between and Alaska and Arkansas, but California is a huge state and a huge economy by itself. Reagan puts any recent President (or candidate) to shame.

Diana Z Gilson   September 30th, 2008 11:26 am ET

Seems like Clinton and I believe former President Regan would be proud of her and she has their vote Jealously is a terrible burden to carry people and I think thats whats Hollywood is all about look how many times they have made headlines drugs… DUI …infedility …spouse abuse and then they try to say something about Sarah give me a break hollywood is sure a poor example of someone who should be talking about anyone

Mike D   September 30th, 2008 11:26 am ET

but i thought she was "the maverick"? is mccain saying bill clinton is the maverick too?

AS   September 30th, 2008 11:26 am ET

If he's so proud of her, why don't they switch positions? Let him step aside and run as her VP.

Potatoe   September 30th, 2008 11:26 am ET

Sarah Palin is on the same level as Dan Quayle. Is it potatoe or potato? She will be buried on Thursday.

Garp LOVES Sarah Palin!...   September 30th, 2008 11:26 am ET

»Americans!»Do NOT WASTE your PRECIOUS VOTE in a Candidate with a ARABIC NAME!?!??!?!…»The GREAT and TRUE AMERICAN John McCain is the RIGHT MAN for President,of course.

Jay   September 30th, 2008 11:26 am ET

With McCain's crazy antics and his horrible choice for VP, we are rapidly becoming the laughing stock of the entire world. With McCain's petty political theather when it comes to crisis management and Palin's just plain stupid answers to questions, can you blame the rest of the world's population for believing the USA is rapidly becoming a country of certified moronic simpltons!

Kathie, Houston TX   September 30th, 2008 11:26 am ET

What an insult to both men. This woman is nothing but a empty headed pole climber, in more ways than one. Wake up America, this is not American Idol!!!!!

I dare you to print this cnn

GE - MD   September 30th, 2008 11:26 am ET

McC has popped his cork and gone outa his gourd! Ms Palin has none of the command presence and glib eloquence of RWR and certainly has shown no signs of intellectual depth as did WJC (who, admittedly, failed to use his consistently – overly governed by his glands)..

United We Stand   September 30th, 2008 11:26 am ET

Sarah Palin, a heartbeat away from the presidency, with a 72 year-old cancer survivor as president? During the worst economic crisis since the Great Depression? While we occupy two nations and face Islamic terrorism across the globe?

We have just suffered through 8 years of George W. Bush–a president who was clearly unqualified and out of his league. Do we really want to put another unqualified person in the executive branch during such troubling times?

idiots for McPalin   September 30th, 2008 11:26 am ET

where's the straight jacket!

prjsuzieq   September 30th, 2008 11:26 am ET

to garp: Just Mars. She can't even be trusted to give an interview. Her talk with Katie Couric even had poor Katie rolling her eyes. Maybe you like book-burning and back-stabbing, too.

Cathy   September 30th, 2008 11:26 am ET

This must be a joke!!! I mean Palin seems like the every day cool woman. But that is all Palin is….and I expected 100 times more from the second in command of this great country (an a heartbeat away for the presidency).

Attention: The most important fact is that the "every day cool woman" SHOULD NOT BE THE VICE PRESIDENT OR PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES.

In addition, I love how McCain talks about the success of Presidency of "inexperienced" politicians like Ronald Regan and Clinton but tries to challenge Obama on his inexperience. McCain doesn't know if he's coming or going half the time.

Rocky Mountain High   September 30th, 2008 11:26 am ET

Makes me wonder what McCain has been inhaling………

Bill Tampa   September 30th, 2008 11:26 am ET

Yeah Right!!!!!!!!..Dream On!!!!!!!

No way, No How, No MCsame/MCPalin

John Corn   September 30th, 2008 11:26 am ET

Dave, if what comes out of Obama's mouth sounds good, it doesn't outweigh the proven fact that he's never run/managed anything, notwithstanding his very shady background and extreme liberalism.

Hector, Lexington, Ky   September 30th, 2008 11:26 am ET

Even though I disagree with many of President Reagan's political theories, he was a great American.

Sarah Palin is no Reagan!

Mr. McCain, please leave Reagan alone. He is not here to defend himself against your slanders and insults when you compare Governor Palin to him.

laughing all the way to a democratic victory   September 30th, 2008 11:26 am ET

The only difference between Reagan, Clinton and Palin, is that the first two had a brain.

Doug   September 30th, 2008 11:26 am ET

Palin looks clueless… she got by on her looks and now she is over her head.

The first dude was in the room when Sarah had meetings and the first dude was involved and was copied on her emails.. was the first dude Sarah's phone-a-friend life line?

Was Palin always over her head, but her husband kept everything together?

She is not qualified to be president in case something happens to McCain.

Greg, Atlanta   September 30th, 2008 11:26 am ET

Well, we now know Palin's new catch phrase…"Gotcha Journalism". We're going to hear it every time she gets a chance to speak.

McCain needs to realize that Palin and even his campaign are making him look foolish. This erratic behavior and his irrational thoughts are further tarnishing his already lackluster image.

dan   September 30th, 2008 11:25 am ET

This is quite possibly the most insulting piece of non-journalism i've ever seen on CNN.

Prediction: Biden will wipe her pageant face around the debate floor.
Prediction: McCain loses in a landslide.
Prediction: Palin never gets re-elected.
Prediction: She will be laughed about and remembered for years to come.

Alicia   September 30th, 2008 11:25 am ET

I think she's more comparable to Harriet Miers.

G   September 30th, 2008 11:25 am ET

All kidding aside, the GOP is DOA and they know it.

Difference between a pitbull and Obama.   September 30th, 2008 11:25 am ET

The pitbull speaks the truth to Americans- it may not come out as great visionary oratory.

Obama is a great orator that does not even know what the truth is anymore- he has fallen prey to his own hype.

I love Sarah

Steve   September 30th, 2008 11:25 am ET

NO WAY, NO HOW, HELL NO McCain…

double speak   September 30th, 2008 11:25 am ET

She's the next BUSH

Judy   September 30th, 2008 11:25 am ET

Why do the Republicans protecting a non educated beauty queen with no comon sense and compare her with Clinton.

Chris Banner   September 30th, 2008 11:25 am ET

Hahahaha
McCain is trying to be funny now ! How can you compare Palin to Bill Clinton: First of all, Bill was more educated than Palin, and more qualified in terms of experience…
And how dare McCain compares Palin to Reagan? At least Ronald Reagan was an actor before he decided to run
Once again, McCain is completely out of touch with reality

Matt in MS   September 30th, 2008 11:25 am ET

She's the next Dan Quayle.

Jayson in San Diego   September 30th, 2008 11:25 am ET

What are you thinking McCain? Just what are you thinking….
Even though you and I are on different sides of the isle, I used to hold respect for you. But after all these shinannigans, forget it, and forget you.

Republicans Hate America   September 30th, 2008 11:25 am ET

Garp you are too dumb to realize how dumb you are.

bobbi   September 30th, 2008 11:25 am ET

oviously mccain said this to detract us from the real issues at hand, the fall of our great country, in which he is a major player.

Bill in Ct.   September 30th, 2008 11:25 am ET

Are you F'ing kidding, comparing her to Bill Clinton, Mcsame is no dout old and senile. This woman has no experience in nothing, foreign or domestic, she's an air head and I'm starting to feel sorry for her b/c the neo-cons of the rethugs party is using this poor woman and I think she knows it but don't know how to get out of it

Dan , TX   September 30th, 2008 11:25 am ET

If the US was a warplane, John McCain would be brave enough to put it in harms way and not worry about himself or whether his plane crashed. He is a brave man. There is no way in the world I want him in the cockpit of the White House.

Susan====NC   September 30th, 2008 11:25 am ET

Sarah does need to get out with the people and not kept undercover. I am supporting her all the way to the White House, but it is so important for her to be able to get out and talk to the people, have one on one talkes with them=go to the small hometowns and let them know she is there also for them as well as the larger towns. I look forward to the debate as I know she will do very well and make us have all the pride in her that she deserves. I do disagree the TV allows all the imatations of her=that is beyond cruel.

NORA, FLORIDA   September 30th, 2008 11:25 am ET

Is there a shrink the building. Any other American would be Baker Acted for absurd comments.

Mike - Oregon   September 30th, 2008 11:25 am ET

Someone please tell me what kind of woman names her boys "Track" and "Trig" ???? This woman is as goofy as a $3 dollar bill.

Erich   September 30th, 2008 11:24 am ET

Both may have been under-estimated, but both could actuall speak coherent thoughts. Both understood what they were talking about. The problem with Palin, as others have said, is she clearly does not understand the issues. That sets her miles apart from Clinton or Reagan. A very, very silly comparison.

More like the next Dan Quayle. If McCain wins despite Palin, we'll never hear from her again except on the talk show circuit.

And to the guy above who things she will protects us from the Russians – are you serious? Do you actually believe that because Alaska is physically close to Russian that makes Palin qualified to defend us? Wow, scary.

Sue/PA   September 30th, 2008 11:24 am ET

CNN…..STOP SHOWING YOUR OBVIOUS SUPPORT FOR MCCAIN…..YOU AIR OVER 20 MINS OF HIS RALLYS OR ROUND TABLE AND HARDLY NONE OF OBAMAS…………………..

also.make it clear to your viewing public, that Sen Obama came out before 8 am this morning with a new plan to help stem the credit crisis………….McCain has now copied this as stated to John Roberts at 8 20 am and again in this round table in Iowa……………………McCain has NO original ideas

Limbaugh is my Saviour   September 30th, 2008 11:24 am ET

I believe what ever Rush tells me, cause I dont have a brain.He says to vote for Sarah because she is the second coming of Ronald Reagan.

Independent White Woman   September 30th, 2008 11:24 am ET

To Mcnut… Sarah Palin may just be the next Ronald Reagan or Bill Clinton — two previous governors…..McPailhead is no Ronald Regan or Clinton …..and I'm going to call you McNutty

Catherine   September 30th, 2008 11:24 am ET

This has got to be a joke. I mean Sarah seems like the every day cool woman. But that is all Palin is and I expected 100 times more from the second in command of this great country.

Attention: The fact is that the "every day cool woman" SHOULD NOT BE THE VICE PRESIDENT OR PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES.

In addition, I love how McCain talks about the success of Presidencey of "inexperienced" politicians like Ronald Regan and Clinton but tries to challenge Obama on his inexperience. McCain doesn't know if he's coming or going half the time.

Judy   September 30th, 2008 11:24 am ET

As far as the McShame…whoops….I mean McPalin…..whoops….I mean McCain-Palin ticket goes…..
I was a soccer mom, basketball mom and owned and operated five stores and took care of my husband and my home. But do I think that qualifies me to run this country? No way, no how, no Palin.

Lynne   September 30th, 2008 11:24 am ET

How can anyone think Palin is the next Reagan or Clinton? Is this comparison supposed to be another skit for SNL? Palin is a joke and is rightfully being treated as so.

Bridget   September 30th, 2008 11:24 am ET

Wait…so now JOHN McCAIN is making it look like Palin is running for President? Good grief. Someone wake me up from this nightmare.

mitch   September 30th, 2008 11:24 am ET

hahahahahahahahahahahahahah……
[big breath]…….hahahahahahahahahahahahahahahaha…….
[big breath]…….hahahahahahahahahhahahahaha!

NFL   September 30th, 2008 11:24 am ET

The difference is level of experience – Reagan and Clinton both had a lot more time and challenge in their Governor positions before becoming active on the national stage. There's no comparison even to Obama's years of experience…he has way more intellectual chops and experience than she'll have with 10 more years as Alaska's governor.

Johnny Gentle   September 30th, 2008 11:24 am ET

Funny I don't remember Reagan or Clinton being afraid to take any questions from the press, nor do I remember either one looking like brain dead neophytes when they did answer questions from the press.

McCain knows this has nothing to do with her experience, or lack thereof, it has to do with the fact that she's an idiot.

Palin was a joke from day one, she just had Bush's speechwriter craft her a barnburner for the convention.

Every time she tries to answer questions without pre-written responses, she looks like a total and complete fool.

This has to be the quickest I've ever seen my fellow Americans see through typical right wing moose-crap, though. Usually it takes us a while to see past the jingling car keys.

Sam   September 30th, 2008 11:24 am ET

Looks like he is in lalaland. So he wants to compare himself to Washington, Lincoln or Roosevelt? Even let us enlighten us about it. LOL guys….

Sean in Charlotte   September 30th, 2008 11:24 am ET

hahahahahahaha

Nice try, McCain!

Republican Women for Obama   September 30th, 2008 11:24 am ET

"Palin the next Clinton or Reagan"

The fundamentals of the economy are strong.

Come on, CNN. I know you guys have a shot of the bobblehead twins, Lindsey Graham and Joe Lieberman, nodding the heads in agreement. Play it for us. We all need a good laugh this morning because there's still no rescue plan for the economy.

Phantom of the Oprah   September 30th, 2008 11:24 am ET

Sarah tell us the truth.

The truth not so well told beats Obama's golden lies.

Garp LOVES Sarah Palin!...   September 30th, 2008 11:24 am ET

» HURRAH for the GREAT Sarah Palin,our next VP. Yes.

Politics   September 30th, 2008 11:24 am ET

Don't even dare to compare her with Bill clinton and reagan.Atleast they knew what they were talking.

PADem   September 30th, 2008 11:24 am ET

If even the outspoken conservatives are asking that Sarah Palin go home to her family, how are they going to feel when she is compared to their political "idol," Reagan?!

Way to alienate MORE people McCain. His handlers should be devoting equal time to controlling he and Palin.

Emily   September 30th, 2008 11:24 am ET

McCain calls himself he a maverick . What he really is is reckless and irresponsible with OUR future. His reasoning is flawed and
he has a childish need to always play the hero. This would be fine
if the future of our country wasn't at stake. To further complicate matters, he chooses this questionable woman as his running mate
and proceeds to control her every move. This is a mean spirited,
selfish man. He yells about "Country First". The way I see it is
John McCains EGO first". Can we afford to have these two run
out country?

ster   September 30th, 2008 11:24 am ET

I think they should let her loose.
I mean, she's a governor with real reform credentials.
Plus, she had the highest rating as governor – higher than ANY other. Much higher than Clinton back in Arkansas.

They're keeping her boxed up and trying to tame her. Can't do that.

And don't tell me she's not intelligent. I mean come on… Obama has more gaffes than anyone I can remember. Remember the "We've visited 57 states" remark? If Palin said that, you'd call her dumb. Obama says it, and he was just tired. DOUBLE-STANDARD.

OS   September 30th, 2008 11:24 am ET

Thank God, He is not claiming that Palin is going to be the next Einstein, Newton or Edison.

Matt77   September 30th, 2008 11:24 am ET

Vice presidential candidates should be chosen at least in part for their ability to run the country in the event of the president's unhappy demise. That held especially true for the Republicans in 2008. John McCain is 72 years old. His father died of natural causes when he was 70. His grandfather died when he was 61. So, John McCain chose Sarah Palin. Does she have the knowledge, experience and judgment necessary to run the country? In light of his choice, does he?

Mr. Right Now   September 30th, 2008 11:23 am ET

Clinton Talk to the people, so did that crook all the Repubs like. But she is not allowed. I think thats sexist. woman can't talk without McCain saying so.

Maren   September 30th, 2008 11:23 am ET

If you want to compare her to a president without prior "experience", how about Jimmy Carter?

Jimi NY   September 30th, 2008 11:23 am ET

There is something seriously wrong with McCain. How can he expect to lead the country when he is doing everything in his power to destroy the country?

OBAMA/BIDEN '08

THE LOGICAL CHOICE . . . THE ONLY CHOICE!!!!!!!!!

America for Obama   September 30th, 2008 11:23 am ET

McCain is a senile babbling old fool.

dd   September 30th, 2008 11:23 am ET

I love Sarah Palin. I will be voting for McCain in Nov. in the State of Fl.
I have never voted for a republican, first time for everything.

DEMOCRATS FOR MCCAIN/PALIN

LEADERS THAT WE KNOW LOVE THEIR COUNTRY AND ARE NOT RACIST LIKE OBAMA AND MICHELLE.

Republicans Hate America   September 30th, 2008 11:23 am ET

Are you kidding me?!! you are comparing this inbreed to 2 intelligent people? Oh McFool you see this is why I am not voting for you. Because your judgment is pitiful just look how you are handling this crisis. Just look at how you came about selecting your VP. All shooting your gun then aiming at the target. you are a little worthless worm

OS   September 30th, 2008 11:23 am ET

Thank God – He is not claiming that Palin is going to be the next Einstein, Newton or Edison.

Sally   September 30th, 2008 11:23 am ET

No, she is not. These men could get on camera and were interviewed and knew what they were talking about.

As much inexperience as they would like to place on Obama, at least he can hold interviews and answer questions.

The only thing Palin is missing is the blonde hair!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Chris   September 30th, 2008 11:23 am ET

HARDLY!

Nice try on spin though… he probably thinks spinning/repeating this will bring back some of his lost support.

Jill   September 30th, 2008 11:23 am ET

GIVE ME A FREAKING BREAK. CNN…ARE YOU ON DRUGS MAKING THAT SUGGESTION?? No one can possibly underestimate her abilities to lead when she has NONE!!!!!!!!!!

Anne in CT   September 30th, 2008 11:23 am ET

McCain needs a brain scan. Something's not right.

Sharyn in Atlanta   September 30th, 2008 11:23 am ET

Maybe he was just reading a phone book and found a Bill Clinton in Pittsburgh and a Ronald Reagan in Des Moines, and he thought no one would notice. Seriously, I was no fan of Reagan, putting it mildly, but I would rather have his corpse in the White House than McLame and Caribou Barbie.

Leesa -ABQ   September 30th, 2008 11:23 am ET

Chicken Little I hear you!

Smiley from Conyers, GA   September 30th, 2008 11:23 am ET

WOW…I never thought he'd stop taking his meds. This man has lost his marbles. If he truly believes this then he would not have needed to escort her to a second round of interviews with Katie Couric.

Poor guy – he's having delusions of grandeur or could it be the early stages of Alzheimers? I'm not trying to be facetious. Something is definitely wrong with this man!

STEFANY   September 30th, 2008 11:23 am ET

I thought the interview that Palin and grandpa Cain did with Katie Couric was further proof that she's not fit to lead, I mean how pathetic was that having McCain sit along side of her trying to defend her blunders..She sat there like a puppet while he spoke for her trying to explain "what she meant" give me a break!

Falconnetti   September 30th, 2008 11:23 am ET

McIdiot should get his head examined!!! Palin is a mile wide and a centimeter deep. She is unfit to hold a national office in so many ways it actually angers me that McIdiot would make these moronic claims about her fitness to serve as V.P. or god forbid President.

Lee Garrett, Overland Park, Ks.   September 30th, 2008 11:23 am ET

Palin another Bill Clinton?????????? THAT IS THE DUMBEST THING I HAVE HEARD FOR A LONGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGG TIME!!!

mb   September 30th, 2008 11:23 am ET

boy, McPaylin is really desperate. How pathetic.

Nancy, Montana   September 30th, 2008 11:23 am ET

McCain's decisions, including his choice for VP, seem impulsive and designed to bring attention and drama to an otherwise lackluster campaign. Pahlin for VP was a decision that pandered to women, as if chosing a woman for VP would garner all female voters, who would somehow ignore McCain's and Pahlin"s conservative stands on many issues important to women-shortsighted and misguided.

Now Pahlin is kept under wraps, or let out with 'Dad' by her side, protecting her from the 'big bad press'. If she is, as he says, another Reagan or Clinton, then she doesn't need a protector, and the American people can decide for themselves whether or not she is ready for the VP job.

SteveO   September 30th, 2008 11:23 am ET

Oh my, just another example of McBush's break with reality. Kind of sad.

Patricia   September 30th, 2008 11:23 am ET

Nothing else to say – the guy is in a box – he probably regrets his choice but it's too late now. The point is that Reagan and Clinton actually ran for Presidency – they were not picked. I actually think they messed this poor lady up-sad indeed!

rich-Coloardo   September 30th, 2008 11:23 am ET

McCain (Bush 44) just like you said "the fundamentals of our economy are strong." Somebody needs to give McCain a dose of reality! To compare Palin to Clinton and Reagon is a complete joke. I don't think he watched the interview with Palin and Couric because that interview is a clear example that Palin is out of her league. Also McCain keeps saying Obama is not ready to lead. Well my question to McCain is "Why is Obama not ready to lead and Palin is?" Based on statements made by McCain I do not believe he is ready to lead. I mean he graduated 897 out of 900 students at the Navel Academy. So he is not the smartest tool in the tool box.

John   September 30th, 2008 11:23 am ET

The Republicans are complete and uneducated idiots to compare a well know educated man with and uneducated women who use her charm to get to the top. Now anybody with comon sense can see through this rocket and see that it has holes. Your Republicans keep protecting your beauty queen and see if she can actually get the crown this time.

Thomas   September 30th, 2008 11:23 am ET

I think the important difference between Palin and Reagan/Clinton was that Reagan/Clinton were successful state govs for years.

Reagan 8 years
Bill Clinton 9 years
Palin 21 months
Palin aint no Reagan nor Clinton. Only in her dreams.

Melissa   September 30th, 2008 11:23 am ET

Palin the next Regean is likely because both come across as nice people, but both are also dim bulbs. Bill Clinton is one of the smartest men to ever serve as president; his intellect is incredible. So, not, Palin will NEVER be a Bill Clinton.

Don't Believe You McSame   September 30th, 2008 11:23 am ET

Hmmm…Bill Clinton has a degree in law as well as an undergraduate degree in Foreign Service. 6 schools in 6 years does not a VP make.

Ronald Regan majored in Economics and Sociology in school and began his career as a REGISTERED DEMOCRAT!

Reagonomics aside, Palin has absolutely NOTHING in common with these great men and I believe it is quite a stretch for McCain to allude to it. Maybe he's off his meds?

The only thing Palin does well is babble incoherently to Katie Couric and Charlie Gibson…maybe she could get a degree in that?!?

Jan, from Madison, WI   September 30th, 2008 11:23 am ET

I think McSame and Sarah Pain both needs check up to check down. Do they really think about what say or want to say before it comes out of their mouth? Please somebody help me, what's going with the republicans, and those who support McSame/Sara Pain.

"If that's what we have to do stop the terrorists from coming any further in, absolutely, we should,"

Hey McSame/Sarah Pain, guess what I gotcha!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Go Obama '08

DR   September 30th, 2008 11:22 am ET

McCain hasn't LOST IT, you Democrat idealogues have lost it. Your candidate has so many shady secrets in his closet that when they all come out he will have to step down or be impeached if he even wins the race. Tony Reczko is ready to tell all. You better all be scared or what he might say. Go McCain/Palin!!

Garp VOTES McCain/Palin of course!   September 30th, 2008 11:22 am ET

»HURRAH for McCain/Palin=The DREAM/RIGHT Presidential Ticket.»OF COURSE.

Chris Ohio   September 30th, 2008 11:22 am ET

Country First My Axx…………He McCain that killed Abel in th bible has since lost my vote 63.5 days ago

karen   September 30th, 2008 11:22 am ET

Please somebody tell Mcthing to suspend his statements till the bailout problem is solved. That might do better than when he or his beauty open their mouth.By that time they can work on Palins income tax returns and show them to us because we the people are ——dont know if this is still democracy.

laughing   September 30th, 2008 11:22 am ET

When you have to tell people, "I am not dumb", you just might be dumb sweetheart!

Mithu   September 30th, 2008 11:22 am ET

Sarah Palin: Bill Clinton: Give me a break… ask her to wear her bikinis and do photo shots!

Sandi from Michigan   September 30th, 2008 11:22 am ET

Bill Clinton was a Rhodes Scholar. He went to Oxford. Whether you love him or hate him you must admit he has a brilliant politial mind.

Sarah Palin is no Bill Clinton.

Elle   September 30th, 2008 11:22 am ET

Ha! Ha! Ha! I love it. "Gotcha" journalism?? For one: it wasn't a journalist who asked the Pakistan question – it was a VOTER!!! If a VOTER can't ask a question and get an answer THEN WHO CAN??
As for Palin – Sorry McCain. You were wrong in choosing her and you're too stubborn to see it and acknowledge it.

Michael   September 30th, 2008 11:22 am ET

stupid question. Palin is the next "has been." Next question.

I Invented the McMuffin... and fire   September 30th, 2008 11:22 am ET

Seriously? You do of course realize that Bill Clinton has an IQ well above the standard for genius. Reagan was, if nothing else, a good orator…
SP is ridiculous in the context of Pres or Vp.
I have more foreign policy experience than Flailin Palin

James   September 30th, 2008 11:22 am ET

Both of those men were very intelligent highly educated people who knew what was going on beyond the areas they were from. Palin is not.

Texas Doc   September 30th, 2008 11:22 am ET

One word….Hah! Clinton is a Rhodes Scholar and Reagan was Governor of California. Palin…hmm…not one of those. Sorry folks, she is a drag on the ticket and will destroy McCain's chances of winning.

Paul Thompson   September 30th, 2008 11:22 am ET

That Alaska is close to Russia is a creditible validation.

This argument that seeing the moon doesn't make someone
an astronaut….isn't valid.

If you never saw the moon….then what?
You wouldn't even have the sense to know anything about it.

I am really starting to despise the press!

Don   September 30th, 2008 11:22 am ET

To paraphrase Lloyd Benson, "Governor, you're no Ronald Reagan or Bill Clinton." To be fair, I voted for both men for President and am proud I did.

Chipster   September 30th, 2008 11:22 am ET

Palin would be more like another W. Bush. Her limited education isn't even close to Rhodes Scholar standards. Her experience is one of doing as she pleases without regard for rules or consequences. She's also pretty loose with the truth, even for a politician. "Truthiness" is Stephen Colbert's term for it.

If you believe she's the next Clinton, I've got a bridge in Alaska to sell ya'.

Just A Voter   September 30th, 2008 11:22 am ET

We've lived under Reagan and Clinton. Reagan and Clinton had thoughtful political philosophies about the roles of government in our lives and of the US in the world. Reagan and Clinton were successful presidents known and befriended by millions. Governor Palin, you're no Reagan or Clinton.

Billy   September 30th, 2008 11:22 am ET

Palin: The next Reagan, Clinton.

HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAAAHHAAAHHAHAAAAAHHAAAAHHAAAA.

It's good to see McCain is in good spirits again.

jake1492   September 30th, 2008 11:22 am ET

MCAINNOW wrote:

"The dems is scared of beautiful Sarah she will kill the Russians before they attack us at home!!!!!!!! America hating Obama will invite terrorists here and give them our jobs. VOTE JOHN AND SARAH!!!!!"

Will kill the Russions before they attack? The Russions have thousands of nuclear warheads. This kind of thinking… which Ms. Palin appears to be susceptible to without a great deal of understanding of the realities …. is high on the list of reasons to not elect McCain.

McCain believes that the USA is powerful enough to do whatever it wants. He is also inclined to project American power with the military. He is a very dangerous man. Sarah Palin is even worse.

elm   September 30th, 2008 11:22 am ET

The only President who could be worse than Bush would be Palin. She would make even George W. look like an intellectual.

Jeff   September 30th, 2008 11:22 am ET

Oh Plezzzee! Give me a break!

OS   September 30th, 2008 11:22 am ET

Thank God – He is not telling that Palin is going to be the next Einstein, Newton or Edison.

Gerald in Georgia   September 30th, 2008 11:22 am ET

APPLY DIRECTLY TO THE FOREHEAD, APPLY DIRECTLY TO THE FORE HEAD, APPLY DIRCETLY TO THE FORE HEAD, APPLY DIERCTLY TO THE FORE HEAD!!!!!

I GUESS IF YOU SAY IT OVER AND OVER, IT'S BOUND TO STICK IN SOMEONE'S MIND!
NO MATTER HOW ANNOYING IT IS. CAN WE STRAP AN ELECTROBE TO MCCAIN SO THAT EVERYTIME HE LIES, HE GETS ZAPPED WITH A JOLT OF ECETRICITY. HE MIGHT NOT STOP LYING BUT AT LEAST WE COULD GET A GOOD LAUGH FROM THIS NONE STOP RIVER OF LIES.
***************************************************************************

White female democrat in South Carolina.   September 30th, 2008 11:22 am ET

That is the funniest thing I've heard all day. It's even funnier than the SNL skit of palin looking like an idiot.

John McCain is completely losing it!!

Nate   September 30th, 2008 11:21 am ET

Well, we'll see a lot more of her on Thursday. Personally, she scares the bejeezus out of me. That Couris interview was horrible. Vice-President is supposed to be the cream of the American crop (intelligence wise). She, simply, 'aint it.

Jennifer   September 30th, 2008 11:21 am ET

I agree, Sarah Palin should be allowed to interact more freely with the media, especially since it's free entertainment for all to see! Her interview with Charlie Gibson was priceless!! All joking aside though, both she and McCain are completely nuts.

Woman with enough credentials to be VP   September 30th, 2008 11:21 am ET

Dear Lord no. I can't believe you're actually seriously entertaining this ludicrous idea CNN.

Garp VOTES McCain/Palin of course!   September 30th, 2008 11:21 am ET

»Governor Sarah Palin!…Sarah Palin!…Palin!…»I LOVE YOU!… Ooh!

AJ   September 30th, 2008 11:21 am ET

But Clinton is smart.
Reagan was charming.
Palin is, well, unfortunate…

Suzeiki   September 30th, 2008 11:21 am ET

They can't be serious. This is journalism? The choice of Sarah Palin as vice presidential running mate was the most insulting, cynical choice I have ever seen. What a disgrace to America and to the rest of the world.

Kellie   September 30th, 2008 11:21 am ET

This is so wrong on so many levels. Sarah Palin is not in the same LEAGUE as Bill Clinton. She shares much more in common with George Bush. She speaks before she thinks, has a hockey-mom attitude similar to Bush's "cowboy" personna, cares little about foreign affairs, shares most of his ideology and policy beliefs… The list goes on. Someday Clinton will be revered for the great president he was and the statesman he has become. America needs the right priorities when choosing our leaders. EDUCATED = GOOD. CURIOUS = GOOD. COULD HAVE A BEER WITH HIM/HER = BAD.

Kathie, Houston TX   September 30th, 2008 11:21 am ET

What an insult to both men. This woman is nothing but a empty headed pole climber, in more ways than one. Wake up America, this is not American Idol!!!!!

Dan   September 30th, 2008 11:21 am ET

MCCAIN NOW … you're kidding, right?

The Russians??? Why does Palin need to protect us from the Russians? Last time I checked, the Cold War ended in the early 1990s. That's like saying we need protection from the Germans, or the Confederates, or England. Give me a break!

Angie   September 30th, 2008 11:21 am ET

You should be ashamed for running that photo of Gov. Palin. She is just as qualified as Obama. He has no more experience as she does. Lou Dobbs is the only one at CNN with any dignity. He's honest and tells it like it is both ways unlike most of this so called news network.

Scott   September 30th, 2008 11:21 am ET

He is comparing her to Reagan and Clinton??? Someone needs a reality check. Reagan was governor of the most populous state in the Union for eight years. Clinton was a Rhodes Scholar and has a JD from Yale. They are not out of her league, they are Hall of Famers, while she isn't qualified to warm the bench in the minors.

Sean from CT   September 30th, 2008 11:21 am ET

Wow, that is the most obtuse comparison I've ever seen! Palin isn't even Dan Quayle let alone Bill Clinton!

Gerald in Georgia   September 30th, 2008 11:21 am ET

APPLY DIRECTLY TO THE FOREHEAD, APPLY DIRECTLY TO THE FORE HEAD, APPLY DIRCETLY TO THE FORE HEAD, APPLY DIERCTLY TO THE FORE HEAD!!!!!

I GUESS IF YOU SAY IT OVER AND OVER, IT'S BOUND TO STICK IN SOMEONE'S MIND!
NO MATTER HOW ANNOYING IT IS. CAN WE STRAP AN ELECTROBE TO MCCAIN SO THAT EVERYTIME HE LIES, HE GETS ZAPPED WITH A JOLT OF ECETRICITY. HE MIGHT NOT STOP LYING BUT AT LEAST WE COULD GET A GOOD LAUGH FROM THIS NONE STOP RIVER OF LIES.

Smiley from Conyers, GA   September 30th, 2008 11:21 am ET

WOW…I never thought he'd stop taking his meds. This man has lost his marbles. If he truly believes this then he would not have needed to escort her to a second round of interviews with Katie Couric.

Poor guy – he's having delusions of grandeur or could it be the early stages of Alzheimers? I'm not trying to be facetious. Something is definitely wrong with this man.

James   September 30th, 2008 11:21 am ET

This is not underestimation this is Oh my God could we find a more divisive candidate for this country??????

KG From ATL   September 30th, 2008 11:21 am ET

This is a VERY interesting comment . . . Both former Presidents should be a little hurt by this one. I think McCain is going off the deep end!

UG   September 30th, 2008 11:20 am ET

FINALLY FINALLY McCain has totally lost it.

HURRAYYY

Obama 08

Crisby   September 30th, 2008 11:20 am ET

I think the comparisons to pets & farm animals are more apt than comparisons to ex-presidents:

1) Ms Palin stated in her (in)famous speech that the only difference between a hockey mom and a pit bull is lipstick. It sure isn't brains!

2) As for the expression "putting lipstick on a pig": The way they've been running their campaign, McCain & Palin must own stock in Revlon.

How arrogant of John McCain to compare Sarah Palin with 2 ex-presidents who happened to be state governors first. I notice that he didn't mention Dubya in his analogy… why is that, I wonder? Perhaps then the analogy would be more accurate.

arc, Lugano CH   September 30th, 2008 11:20 am ET

McCain is a bitter, sickly, old man and a Liar, who due to his age and failing health, would most likely not even see out a first term in office. The only person that world leaders would respect even less than Bush/McCain is Palin.

laj   September 30th, 2008 11:20 am ET

Comparing Sarah Palin to Bill Clinton is an insult to our intelligence. Love him or hate him, ask Bill any question on any subject and he answers with clear and very knowledgeable answers. Ask Sarah about anything and she answers with gibberish. Pleas stop insulting the intelligence of the American people.

emily   September 30th, 2008 11:20 am ET

now i've heard it all.

linda n carolina   September 30th, 2008 11:20 am ET

Please…………John McCain can not actually think we are buying this stuff. I quess he could if your INSANE!!!!

Dream Out Loud   September 30th, 2008 11:20 am ET

Palin is the next Clinton? remind me, which one was the sexual predator?

Jeff DuShane   September 30th, 2008 11:20 am ET

I wonder, is John McCain going to be standing next to Sarah Palinat the debate on Thursday? That second interview with Katie Couric was the most unbelievable thing I have ever seen. He sat there and monitored what she said and the questions that were asked. Then he gave a look as if to say, 'See, she knows what she is talking about.' Would he also be joined at the hip with her when he would be president?

chris   September 30th, 2008 11:20 am ET

More like the next Jack Kemp or Dan Quayle- a losing Republican Vie Presidential candidate.

Leah Ann Noe   September 30th, 2008 11:20 am ET

Wow you guys at cnn really now how to "moderate" the comments don't you. All I said was "at least Palin is not friend with Rezko, Ayers, Wright, ACORN accomplices, etc." SCARY comments huh. You are sooo in the tank for Obama that it is grotesque.

Illinois Blue Dog   September 30th, 2008 11:20 am ET

To "Never Barak Obama (PUMA)"
-Seriously, get over it. Think about the country and the economic mess we're in instead of Hillary. Are your feelings hurt? Tough. Grab your toys and get off the playground. You're whinier than a two year old.

MLD ND   September 30th, 2008 11:20 am ET

Oh Please……

Vince in NC   September 30th, 2008 11:20 am ET

Reagan started the era of low taxes and high deficits that have taken us down to our current economic crisis.

bruja   September 30th, 2008 11:20 am ET

GARP: Yes you are….

Open Your 3rd Eye   September 30th, 2008 11:20 am ET

NO, SHE WILL BE THE NEXT TINA FEY.

TC   September 30th, 2008 11:20 am ET

Palin is the next bill clinton?

What have you been smoking? Put down the moose Juice , Its bad for you!

Where do you get this stuff?

ster   September 30th, 2008 11:20 am ET

I go with Clinton.

They had the SAME arguments against Clinton. In experienced, small state, never traveled much (other than college), over his head.
He turned out OK.

Just remember, while you pile on Palin, the same thing happened to Clinton. Remember?

Independent White Woman   September 30th, 2008 11:20 am ET

McNut….Sarah Palin may just be the next Ronald Reagan or Bill Clinton — two previous governors……..Pailhead is no Ronald Regan Or Clinton and I'm going call you McNuttY

katie   September 30th, 2008 11:20 am ET

Ohhhh please, she is good at only one thing and it’s BS. Unfortunately it’s not working anymore. Imagine her as the US President in case McCain dies. It terrifies me. She is the stupid version of G W Bush, Imagine that: O

prjsuzieq   September 30th, 2008 11:20 am ET

to garp: Sarah palin a brilliant lady????what. have you been living on Mars?

MBFLA   September 30th, 2008 11:20 am ET

Somebody is joking!

Clinton was a Rhodes Scholar…..Palin is ignorant and uninterested in the world around her.

Reagan had Alzheimers…….McCain has trouble remembering what he said the day before.

gtb   September 30th, 2008 11:20 am ET

The self-same folks who have been screaming "Choice" at us for last 40 years are now the ones screaming because Palin has exercised her Right to Choose but has not chosen what they believe she should have chosen. This is more evidence of the Dictatorship of Relativism that now predominates our "culture".

K   September 30th, 2008 11:20 am ET

That statement would not be a compliment to anyone running for president. Where black people are concerned Ronald Reagan was the devil and Bill Clinton aside from his good performance as president has been exposed as a closet racist. In the end Sarah Palin will end up back in Alaska forgotton and end up a footnote in history.

Kevin,FL   September 30th, 2008 11:20 am ET

I agree with McCain

Vegas   September 30th, 2008 11:20 am ET

Wow. McCain forgot to throw in another "underestimated governor" that went on to claim the presidency. Why did McCain not throw in George W. Bush who was supposed to lose heavily to Al Gore in 2000? Why would you do that John? That's the more accurate comparison. Quit being so transparent, your senility is showing.

seth   September 30th, 2008 11:20 am ET

The wheels are really coming off the McCain campaign. Now that voters are peaking behind the current and seeing the same ideology from the past 8 years the McCain campaign is trying to obfuscate their positions on everything and hiding Palin from the world.

Joy   September 30th, 2008 11:20 am ET

This is not funny anymore…Say goodbye Sarah!!

CM   September 30th, 2008 11:20 am ET

LOLOLOLOL

Really, McCain is trying to influence how people view Palin. The problem with that is that is that she betrays her ignorance when she opens her mouth.

Her lack of transparency and blatant nepotism in Alaska is pretty alarming itself.

Garp VOTES McCain/Palin of course!   September 30th, 2008 11:20 am ET

»Americans»WAKE UP!»VOTE WELL»VOTE in the GREAT man JOHN McCAIN and in the GORGEOUS Lady Sarah Palin.OF COURSE!…

Kate   September 30th, 2008 11:20 am ET

Come on, Bill Clinton? Ms. Palin does not have one-thousandth of his brain power. Reagan, yes I could see that – just another "looks the part" puppet of big business who will tell her what to say and think. No worries of any opinions of her own.

Iowan that can think for himself   September 30th, 2008 11:20 am ET

PUMA is just another name for poor loser. It takes a person of integrity to admit defeat and PUMA has none!

NYObamacan   September 30th, 2008 11:20 am ET

McCain has put politics above country. I can't imagine Sarah Palin becoming President of the United States. She is completely incapable of even holding a serious press conference. The thought of having her at the helm of our military, our economy and government services is frightening. Country First… Vote Responsibly… Vote Obama/Biden.

Judy - CA   September 30th, 2008 11:20 am ET

McCain spends half of his "suspended" campaign defending his running mate's absurd statements and the other half trying to mislead the public about his opponent. The only thing the McCain-Palin team would do in office is top the incompetency and lies of the Bush-Cheney administration. We don't need this kind of half-witted leadership doing even more damage to our country.

Alex   September 30th, 2008 11:20 am ET

Is this a joke? Seriously? It took her how many colleges to get a journalism degree while Bill Clinton was a Rhodes Scholar! She has proven herself to be dumber than Dan Quayle. This sort of reporting is seriously harming the credibility of this site.

James from Akron, OH   September 30th, 2008 11:20 am ET

Jesse Ventura was also a governor and we could just as easily draw comparisons. I'm sure both have wrestled a moose or two.

Republican Women for Obama   September 30th, 2008 11:20 am ET

"Palin the next Clinton or Reagan"

The fundamentals of the economy are strong.

Wow . . . let me guess . . . CNN has to have a shot of the bobblehead twins, Lindsey Graham and Joe Lieberman, nodding their heads in apoproval. Come on, play it guys. We need something to laugh at this morning because there's still no rescue plan for our economy.

Randi   September 30th, 2008 11:20 am ET

Bill Clinton was a scholar. Sarah jumped from college to college and was elected in a state with a small population. She does not have the intellect or the education to hold the office of president. I find it sad America does not seek out the best educated and the most intelligent person to lead our country. We need a person who has lived a life that has given them the experiences to deal with the whole world. Being a hockey mom and a moose hunter should not put you in the running for president. McCain was desparate to find someone to shake up the country. His choice for a running mate shows that he is not fit to make the important decisions a president needs to make every day.

Baby B   September 30th, 2008 11:20 am ET

HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

McCain Invented the BlackBerry, Palin Invented the Manure Spreader   September 30th, 2008 11:20 am ET

Take a good look at the picture accompanying this article.

Remember "Sesame Street"? One of these things is not like the other…

Larry from Georgetown, Tx   September 30th, 2008 11:19 am ET

Dear Senator McCain, Papa John's is a pizza place and you acted like a Papa to Mrs. Palin on the Couric interview yesterday. You are a very poor example of a man of honor. You're protecting Palin because you are afraid to admit that you made a bad mistake and especially comparing her to Regan and Clinton. Ross Perot said it well, that if you take all of the people out of Washington and don't change the system then you'll still have the same problem. Are you proud that you work in the city of crime and corruption and have been there forever. Get real and get rid of her and then announce that you will only seek one term as President to not have to wheel and deal, Get the book, "The Spiraling Malady".

Barbara G   September 30th, 2008 11:19 am ET

I think John McCain got it right by picking Palin, I also think she is ready to lead our country if anything happans to McCain. And people get real, McCain could live to be 100, his mother is in her 90's, and a lot of us older people are not senile or ready for the grave. We can teach you young people a few tricks, after all you young people coming up are sure making a mess of it.

proud army and navy mom   September 30th, 2008 11:19 am ET

I saw that interview and they looked like a grandpa and his daughter.

Mcliar was speaking for her like she was his child that he must protect.

When Palin was finally allowed to answer for herself, she contradicted what Mcwar said again. These two are pathetic.

Jesse, MA.   September 30th, 2008 11:19 am ET

Is McCain undermining himself when he compares Palin to Clinton and Reagan? Like him, those two were running for President, not Palin. I suppose the argument would be that she is so good, you can make that comparison. Though I'm struggling to find something she is so good at. Whether that's because of lack of exposure, or due to her ignorance of the subject matter, who can say for sure, but my guess is the latter.
I wonder, has there been a time when a presidential candidate deferred to and relied on the popularity of the vp pick so much? Can this possibly be good for McCain? Either way, I think a more appropriate presidential comparison would be to George W. Bush. If you take a look at her stance on the issues, she aligns much more closely to him than even her running mate.

Phantom of the Oprah   September 30th, 2008 11:19 am ET

The boy who cried wolf:

First Obama attacks the best candidate of his own party. He falsely claims that Hillary- the VERY best Candidate in 50 years- is not qualified. He spins that She is a warmonger and a racist. He claims that She has no experience. Pretty soon- the warrior woman is swiftboated by race-baiting sexism and pro-Obama bias. We all watched in horror at this vitriolic intra-party war. But Obama pulled that charade off with the help of a tingling up the leg media for Obama.

Next… The Obama does the VERY same thing with Palin- Yep… Palin is NO HILLARY. But now all the cries in the world fall on deaf ears. The boy cried wolf once and no one is listening now.

I voted – proudly- for the very best. Hillary Clinton. Now I will vote against Obama for the cheating and dirty politics he played.

No one is listening now… even if the criticism of Palin is vaild- WHY?
Because the same thing was done to Hillary and it was ANYTHING BUT valid.

snorkllz   September 30th, 2008 11:19 am ET

I'm not even sure Palin is qualified to be the Principal of an elementary school at this point.

Ian Minneapolis, MN   September 30th, 2008 11:19 am ET

Of course she didn't mean what she said….apparently the McCain camp never means what they say….at least thats what the keep saying…..hmmmmm. I'm sorry but they just don't have my trust, no matter how I try to look at it.

American Son   September 30th, 2008 11:19 am ET

now see, mccain doesn't want to get me to cussin'……

ole moose-munch & bunch? the next reagan or clinton????

is he tryin' to tell us sumtin'?

so if elected he won't be around long and palin will eventually be top moose???

get real,,,,, obama/biden '08

Dave, Seattle   September 30th, 2008 11:18 am ET

The only difference between Palin and Reagan or Clinton is that both Bill and Ron had excellent command of issues and could give clear, coherent answers to questions posed to them. Reagan and Clinton did not have to stick to talking points all day and did not need coaching. It's a bad comparison.

Kris in Denver   September 30th, 2008 11:18 am ET

Oh, good grief! The only underestimating going on is McCain's underestimating of Obama. John, isn't it about time you had your meds adjusted? They haven't been working well for quite a while now.

Mike   September 30th, 2008 11:18 am ET

Mr. Obama parts the Red Sea….heal the sick…oh, and can't forget, he raises the dead as well. Why hasn't Obama waved his anointed hand and made the financial crisis go away? I wonder how long it will be before people start sacrificing virgins and children to the Great Obama.

zim   September 30th, 2008 11:18 am ET

Wow……partisanship found on CNN? who would've thought the 'Communist News Network' would be partisan (and blatantly supporting Obama)….

Proud to be American   September 30th, 2008 11:18 am ET

Are you serious? please do not disrepect Bill or Ronald with that comparison … she needs to take the proper advice and step down and take care of her babies (I am woman!). McBush did not put his country first by picking her she is so not ready to lead the US … and I think if she doesn't no the answer she should just say so rather then bs her way through the questions…. man if you bomb with Katie (the nicest person in the world) how do you think you will stand with the world…. Obama 2008 or we are in bigger trouble :0(

J - East Windsor, CT   September 30th, 2008 11:18 am ET

Anybody that has read a transcript of her interview with Katie Couric knows that she is closer to our next Paris Hilton than to our next ex-president when it comes to mental capacity.

shelley brien   September 30th, 2008 11:18 am ET

Palin is an insult to all women every where..to take it for granted "I" would vote for her because she is a "woman"..when she beleaves everything I stand against is an INSULT..and her ignorance is showing in interviews..compare her to BILL..what a joke!

Palin is a joke   September 30th, 2008 11:18 am ET

Palin as the next Clinton?!?! Bwa-Ha-Ha-Ha! More like the next Pee-Wee Herman!

Brian   September 30th, 2008 11:18 am ET

I am a Republican for the most part but there is no way I would compare Palin to Reagan.

Kandale   September 30th, 2008 11:18 am ET

I do believe MsSame is now MC SHAME. He is out of touch. Please give him, his medications. He really need a chek uo med.
Stay with Palin as your daugther. We do not need her as american VP.
Pleae give me a brake. You have old ideas and methods of protection.

Thanks for helping OBAMA/BIDEN ticket

Mantan   September 30th, 2008 11:18 am ET

This is a lack of judgement on Mccain's part, or is it that he's really lost his mind. Looney tunes.

Eugene   September 30th, 2008 11:18 am ET

I'm sure Gov. Palin will do better in the debate. It's too crucial for her not to do so.

andy   September 30th, 2008 11:18 am ET

I am a Republican but I will be changing side come November 4th.

MSU Dem   September 30th, 2008 11:18 am ET

1) What an insult to Bill Clinton.
2) I can't tell the difference between pictures of Palin and pictures of Tina Fey. I wonder if the Secret Service will hire her as Palin's body double.

Garp   September 30th, 2008 11:18 am ET

»I LOOOOOOVE Sarah Palin. I am NOT dumb. I will NOT waste my PRECIOUS Vote in some Candidate with some ARABIC NAME!!!… SAD people!…

Todd   September 30th, 2008 11:18 am ET

Remember Llyod Benson and Dan Quayle?

"Senator, you're no Jack Kennedy" – the video clip is on YouTube.

Well, Govener (Palin)… You are no Bill Clinton (or Ronald Reagan)!

Political retoric – 2 cents.
Political stupidity – PRICELESS!!!

Rosalinda   September 30th, 2008 11:18 am ET

He is insane and must really think the American public is just plain stupid.

Good grief!

justin   September 30th, 2008 11:18 am ET

Release McCains medical records, NOW!

I'm thinking Palin is a side show and was in the plan. She'll be replaced right before the election by someone else so to excite the right base again.

ABinOrlando   September 30th, 2008 11:18 am ET

sure

Karen   September 30th, 2008 11:17 am ET

Bill Clinton was a Rhodes Scholar with ample experience dealing with people of many cultures. Even though he governed a small, predominantly rural state he was well versed in the ways of the world.

bruja   September 30th, 2008 11:17 am ET

MCCAINNOW: you are an ignorant idiot! Kill the Russians? We can only hope they are smarter then we are…. (I think they are).
They are smarter, stronger, and richer then we are.

IDU   September 30th, 2008 11:17 am ET

I think he is quickly becoming senile.

mark   September 30th, 2008 11:17 am ET

Wow! Just…wow!!!

And how is it gotcha journalism when the question came from a voter? I suppose the liberal media forced her to say it..

Eight years ago I would have voted for McCain had he made it out of the primary, but today he is an erratic and cynical person.

JL   September 30th, 2008 11:17 am ET

And by the way……why is he EVEN in these interviews holding her hand?!! I thought he had suspended his campaign until the financial crisis was over?! Or that he would NOT debate until this crisis was over?! Everything he says is pure politics!! He (like Bush) can NOT be trusted!

WHY isnt the media jumping on him for this?!! This is a man who will say anything and everything to try to win the white house! He is like the hobbit from Lord of the Rings who is losing himself (and everything he EVER stood for) to merely possess his "precious."

John, Austin, TX   September 30th, 2008 11:17 am ET

What the… Sorry. I have great respect for the Clintons and I would never insult them like this. Someone please tell McCain how stupid he sounds.

Independent Mind   September 30th, 2008 11:17 am ET

Can we please talk about her views on the world and what she will bring to the table as a public servent? No. Of course not. That would have way too much substance.

Mark   September 30th, 2008 11:17 am ET

Yes…and John McCain is the next Bob Dole!

McCain Invented the BlackBerry, Palin Invented the Manure Spreader   September 30th, 2008 11:17 am ET

PALIN IS THE NEXT DAN QUAYLE.

Scott - Alabama   September 30th, 2008 11:17 am ET

All of you talking about Palin's comments. These are from the same group whose VP nomination stated that during the great depression Roosevelt addressed the nation over the television. I think you better start checking your own candidate before pointing at others.

idiots for McPalin   September 30th, 2008 11:17 am ET

I got to hear what Begala and Carville say about these comments from McCain.

Palin = Bill Clinton = Reagan ??? How crazy, mcCain you have clearly lost it. You have already proved you would be irrational in decision making and your hot temper keeps getting you in trouble. You already proved that you are a bad president and you didn't even win yet.

Brian   September 30th, 2008 11:17 am ET

Although I find myself in agreement with 0% of her positions, I believe she is a decent person, but breathtakingly unqualified for national office. McCain will regret this choice unless he takes radical action and does a switcheroo.

martha   September 30th, 2008 11:17 am ET

come on MCcain are you sleeping or this is what happen when you get old. You can not tell the difference between good and bad.

no fear   September 30th, 2008 11:17 am ET

At this point, I can only hope the American citizens will use their common sense because McCain seems to have lost his in a very big way, on oh so many levels.

I'm reminded of a quote when I hear the mention of McCain's name:
"A great deal of intelligence can be invested in ignorance when the need for illusion is deep."

It is sad: McCain has stooped so low that he's gonna have to reach up to touch bottom.

toby   September 30th, 2008 11:17 am ET

ADMIRAL JAMES STOCKDALE was brilliant. Smarter than most of these guys put together. He was a terrible public speaker though, and a poor choice for VP.

zack   September 30th, 2008 11:17 am ET

McCain…I have a word for you. Why don't you be a man and own up to your screw up. Regan and Clinton were NOT stupid or extremely uninformed like your Barby.

An independent   September 30th, 2008 11:17 am ET

This question is a joke right?

I wish it were not. This lady is dramatically unqualified to be the next Vice President

Kelsey   September 30th, 2008 11:17 am ET

Atleast Reagan and Clinton knew what they were talking about. Palin is incoherent and uneducated. I used to respect McCain but for him to allow her as their VP is just the scariest idea since the Iraq war!

Lenore   September 30th, 2008 11:17 am ET

Is McCain on drugs???!! Time to release those medical records!

Diane   September 30th, 2008 11:17 am ET

Then why did he not let her do the recent interview by herself and then spoke up when she was asked a question. Please, the american people are not that stupid. He does not trust her or else he would not have had to sit next to her and help answer or explain questions asked.

J - Clearwater   September 30th, 2008 11:17 am ET

Sarah is exactly what America needs to get back on her feet…She wants to "audit every" government department and fine tune them…This is long over due – we need someone in Washington that will not be beholding to the corruption and lobbyists.

Selling jets on ebay for America   September 30th, 2008 11:17 am ET

This still doesn't answer the question as to how Obama expects anyone in this country to believe his own limited resume leaves him fit to be the top of the Democratic ticket.

Come on CNN, focus on the REAL issue…..just ONCE!!!!

Rose   September 30th, 2008 11:17 am ET

THANKS, BUT NO THANKS!
Obama/Biden08

Chris   September 30th, 2008 11:17 am ET

Palin is nowhere near Clinton or Reagan. Several conservative commentators are asking her to step down for the good of the ticket. Her own party knows she is not the right person for the job.

louise   September 30th, 2008 11:17 am ET

Mc Cain is Bush, who cares what is good for the American people and our country. This was Mc Cain 1st decision to show what kind of president he would be and hopefully it is his last. As you can see, the pickings for any quality leadership from the Republicans is just not there.

ak-va   September 30th, 2008 11:17 am ET

ahhhhhhhhhhh this man is insane he goes against his own words.He bashed Obama because of lack of experience now he believes Palin is the next Clinton or Regan.God please help us if they win the office.The woman dosent even know how to give an interview.Mccain had to go back to CBS to "correct her" if you watch carefully to her body language you can tell she is not comfortable.

sid lee   September 30th, 2008 11:17 am ET

So is it Reagan or Clinton ? Seems like a wide range to me

Dan S   September 30th, 2008 11:17 am ET

WHAT!! You have GOT to be kidding!!!

nikki   September 30th, 2008 11:16 am ET

uh, I'm from Arkansas…Bill was the Attorney General and the Governor who has more experience than Sarah and McShame!

Garp from Cosmos C-lebrity   September 30th, 2008 11:16 am ET

»VOTE WELL=VOTE WISELY!=VOTE John "GREAT man" McCain/Sarah "So Beautiful/Wonderful" Palin!…»YES!

Richard   September 30th, 2008 11:16 am ET

With 8 homes and 13 vehicles, you'd think Grandpa could afford someone to remind him when to take his meds.

Ashely   September 30th, 2008 11:16 am ET

McCain is correct…both Reagan and Clinton were greatly underestimated. What he fails to grasp, however, is that both Reagan and Clinton had a grasp of national and international affairs…something Palin is sorely lacking.

Mark   September 30th, 2008 11:16 am ET

This is just great. A presidential candidate that is showing obvious signs of senility. Suppose this dementia worsens quickly. We are then left with President Sarah "Pitbull in Lipstick" Palin.

Can anyone recommend a realtor in North Korea?

DPW   September 30th, 2008 11:16 am ET

Do they seriously think Palin can pull this debate off. PLEASE!!!! She can't even hold her own during a simple interview so, I can only imagine what she will look like during a structured debate… TERRIBLE!!!!!!!!! OMG

IDU   September 30th, 2008 11:16 am ET

Reagan and Clinton ran for president and were knowlegable on national issues and had visions. its a nonsequitur. McCain is doing everything posible to cover up his irresponsible pick for V.P. Country First…Please

Kelly   September 30th, 2008 11:16 am ET

No way.

derrick   September 30th, 2008 11:16 am ET

McCain is Idi Amin

Tim in NC   September 30th, 2008 11:16 am ET

CNN please post this, it actually has researched facts in it-

Reagan managed an economy that out stripped many foreign contries entire GDP.

Clinton is a lawyer (thus knew a bit about LAW) with extensive amounts of charisma and intelligence.

Alaska's annual budget is around 500 million (2009 budget), compared to 1980's California budget was aroudn 21.5 Billion (79-80 budget)… and as far as Palin's education goes- 6 college's in as many years and a BS in Communications/Journalism versus Clinton's BS in International affairs, an dhis law degree from Yale…

In short, Palin is NO Reagan or Clinton, end of story.

Douglas, Los Angeles   September 30th, 2008 11:16 am ET

How can she be the next "anything" if John McCain is sitting there next to her answering the questions for her? At least Reagan and Clinton were able to think for themselves.

Also, a private U.S. citizen ask her a question and he called that gotch journalism. I don't get that.

KS   September 30th, 2008 11:16 am ET

OMG!!!
Please tell me I am in a BAD dream.
This must be the JOKE of the Century to compare the PitBull with a LipStick to the two great Presidents of the Past.

Just listen to her interview with Katie and decide yourself.

WAKE UP AMERICA! November 4th is just around the corner to End this Republicans who will try anything to stay in power and bring much more HARDSHIP to America than what we are going through.

OBAMA & BIDEN! AMEN!!

Traci   September 30th, 2008 11:16 am ET

Actually, I think there's another former govrernor that she emulates: Dubya himself. Putting unqualified friends into high positions, her fundamental religious beliefs, saying they'll cooperate in investigations at the beginning until the truth starts to come out and then doing everything in their power to hinder the investigation, serious lack of knowledge in world affairs and relying on someone else to 'tell' them what should be done rather than researching it themselves– and being proud of this lack of knowledge to boot. THIS IS WHY THIS WOMAN SCARES ME– SHE IS ANOTHER BUSH!!!

Anne-Marie   September 30th, 2008 11:16 am ET

Hi,

With all due respect, are you out of your mind comparing Sarah Palin to Bill Clinton??? Even if Bill Clinton was underestimated, he was still intelligent and knew enough about the world to be able to engage in an intelligent conversation.

Watching Sarah Palin speak is like watching an accident while it's happening, you feel really bad for the people but you can't help but watch thinking that it possibly couldn't get any worse but it always does…

White EX REPUBLICAN Texas Woman FOR OBAMA   September 30th, 2008 11:16 am ET

SENATOR, I SERVED WITH BILL CLINTON. I KNOW BILL CLINTON. BILL CLINTON IS A FRIEND OF MINE.

SENATOR, YOUR MS PALIN IS NO BILL CLINTON!!!!

Tony, Miami   September 30th, 2008 11:16 am ET

Senator McCain has just set a record and should be on the Guiness Book as the most experimented LIAR

David from CA   September 30th, 2008 11:16 am ET

They laughed at Newton….
They laughed at Einstein…
They laughed at ME….

David E. Cowen   September 30th, 2008 11:16 am ET

"gotcha journalism" — The lady responds to a voter who asks a direct question and it's a "cheap trick?" Is there any level low enough to be McCain's floor? He was a lion of the Senate; now he is a snake in the weeds.

Sorry, but to argue that Palin is Ronald Reagan in a skirt insults everyone. Does he realize how desparate he sounds? He is going to take this race and turn it into a landslide. If I were a Republican Congressman seeking reelection, I would even be worrying if my opponent was a fictitious character with mouse ears. I would be facing unemployment in November; just like the rest of the country.

Can McCain argue he is a "leader" with all of this. I read one columnist — a conservative one — argue that the "real McCain" is hiding and will come out if he were just elected. Maybe that is what scares me. The "Real George Bush" is now the "Second Herbert Hoover." What will the "Real McCain" be for us?

independent in Texas   September 30th, 2008 11:16 am ET

wasnt it McCains camp that said Obama was inexpierienced, and on the job training wasnt an option ? well, bow he is pushing Palin for on the job training, what kind of flip flop is that ? and this morning he hurried up to "use" Obamas plan of putting the $250,000. in the next draft..what is that, again using Obamas strategy ??? ok..somebody please, convince ME I should vote for McCain-Palin now..
Thank you
D.Bradshaw Texas

Ben, NC   September 30th, 2008 11:16 am ET

Can some one please get McCain's mental health report?

I want to know the old man's current IQ, reasoning ability etc…

mike33   September 30th, 2008 11:16 am ET

OK, If he's so confident that she's the next "Great Communicator," unleash the 'Pit Bull with Lipstick' and let the public and media have at her and judge further for ourselves. Oh, that's right…she's 'Cocooned' — great strategy! Or should I say great tactic John?

cherie   September 30th, 2008 11:16 am ET

Sarah Palin is right where she belongs as John McCain's running mate She will make a great VP the democrats are so negative as same as their choice Obhama why wasn't he in Washington getting the democtarts to see how this bill was important….no he couldn't be bothered as to what is important to us He tries to make himself something he isn't…he hired lawyers so no one would say anything about him OH PLEASE after all that was said about Sarah hes a whimp trying to be a playboy

Didier   September 30th, 2008 11:15 am ET

Obviously, McCain wasn't going to let Palin go solo with Couric again. Mercy, if Palin can't survive an interview with Katie Couric, how in the world could she ever survive leading our country in a time of crisis?

Face it, folks, the election is over and McCain's selection of Palin sealed the deal.

Jared   September 30th, 2008 11:15 am ET

You liberals are to funny with your crude ungracious comments…..and I can't wait till Nov 5th to see your reactions….

Marian W. Alaimo   September 30th, 2008 11:15 am ET

she doesn't have a clue so NO she isn;t like Clinton

Joe   September 30th, 2008 11:15 am ET

Trust me Palin is no Ronald Reagan or Bill Clinton. The McBush/Palin ticket is with out a doubt the worst in history.

terri sel   September 30th, 2008 11:15 am ET

Are you out of your mind???? Reagan and Clinton had a clear grasp of complicated issues that was evident every time they spoke — they did not speak only from scripts and staged settings. Come on this is our Country's future at stake here – Republican or Democrat people better wake up on this one! Taking away partisan politics — can anyone honestly say that she is capable of understanding and dealing with this economic crisis and world affairs??? McCain had to sit in with her to guide her through her last segment with Katie Couric. This is all so disturbing!

Jack Jodell, Minneapolis, MN   September 30th, 2008 11:15 am ET

The melanoma MUST have gone to McCain's brain! Poor guy.

max (NY)   September 30th, 2008 11:15 am ET

I believe McCain is coming down to a nervous breakdown and is suffering from a disease called " Politicosis", a rare and very contagious disease that attacks the brain and render its victims delirious which may lead to "Republicanosis" that impairs your common sense and good judgment and make you lose sense of truth and reality. Many people seem to have already contracted it just by listening to McCain speak. They need to quarantine them.

Garp from Ohio   September 30th, 2008 11:15 am ET

»VOTE McCain/Palin,of course.

idiots for McPalin   September 30th, 2008 11:15 am ET

His clinical diagnosis is , " officially mental"!

Penny   September 30th, 2008 11:15 am ET

Poor John….he really believes it!! I'm fascinated how Obama and the Democrats "sank" this bailout and he "lead" the Republicans through the crisis……uhhhh……hhmmmm…..yoo hoo, John, crisis not over, you went to DC to get those "nay" votes to "yea" votes and you didn't deliver, they still said "nay" and they asked you to stay off the hill……..loved your comment about Obama "phoning it in" after you stayed in your office and sat on the phone for 2 days………..

Poor John

ANAG LOS ANGELES, CA   September 30th, 2008 11:15 am ET

I like Palin with her the GOP are sure to LOSE.

OBAMA/JB 08!

Alex in FL   September 30th, 2008 11:15 am ET

Cannot wait for the debate and see Palin go down in flames.

Spewing memorized campaign rhetoric only works if you ACTUALLY ADDRESS THE QUESTION ASKED.

Obama/Biden '08 and '12.

Bulldog   September 30th, 2008 11:15 am ET

McCain himself insulted Mitt Romney just 4 or 5 mothns ago that he wasn't good enough because he only a governor. McCain is such a hypocrite and a liar. Palin cannot even come close to Reagan or Clinton. Reagan and Clinton had a clue, Palin does not.

Ben   September 30th, 2008 11:15 am ET

This is a joke. Palin is a joke. She doesn't know squat compared to Clinton OR Reagan. Obama/Biden 08

Rohini-Indiana   September 30th, 2008 11:15 am ET

wow.. comparing Palin to one of the greatest presidents ever… this keeps getting better and better… how is Palin supposed to agree with McCain… she doesn't even know what McCain is talking about…

Mike   September 30th, 2008 11:15 am ET

Sarah Palin is the next dan Quayle, shes an insult to liberals and conservatives; its pathetic that she's allowed to run for VP given how incredibly ignorant she is…. good question tho cnn…

Jim in NY   September 30th, 2008 11:15 am ET

Th-Th-Thats all folks!

David, Silver Spring, MD   September 30th, 2008 11:15 am ET

You know, George W. Bush was also a governor who was "misunderestimated" by the national media.

That's worked out great for the country, hasn't it?

Baze   September 30th, 2008 11:15 am ET

This is a stupid question. Palin is the next Palin, which isn't looking too good right now.

ONE NATION

Hal RR   September 30th, 2008 11:15 am ET

This Palin person deserves no mercy. The media should not be gentle with her, the public should not be gentle with her, and the political world should not be gentle with her. Nobody should be gentle with McCain about her, either. He chose her, and she accepted. These were the first real decisions of people who want to be the executives of this country.

On a related note, I know that every politician does the thing where they accuse other politicians of pursuing political goals, even though that's what they're all doing all the time, but in the case of McCain this election…well, let's just say that it's getting pretty hardcore.

david   September 30th, 2008 11:15 am ET

McCain is metally ill. McCain should seriously consult a therapist about his sexual addiction. He can not let national issues dominated by his male part. I am not joking. He needs help. Everyone understands that he was hard when he chose Sarah palin. He needs to stop taking viagra and talk to a therapist about his addiction.

Bing   September 30th, 2008 11:15 am ET

And another thing…..why was McCain sitting next to Palin during the last Couric interview? It made Palin look extremely weak, that she needed "daddy" to help her beat back the mean "gotcha" journalist. I'm sure a qualified VP choice can give a follow-up interview, by themselves, to explain their views.

Andy in Seattle   September 30th, 2008 11:15 am ET

haha this is just funny. At some point everyone is going to have to face the facts that Palin has no credibility and is dangerous for this country.

Mark Senak   September 30th, 2008 11:15 am ET

Comparing the ineptitude of Sarah Palin with the largesse of two former presidents is simply ridiculous.

Denise   September 30th, 2008 11:15 am ET

Quote from the McCain people in another CNN article, "The adviser said preparing her for the debate was "really hard" because the Alaska governor was learning about issues she had never dealt with before — including those regarding North Korea and other hot spots around the globe."

Both Reagan and Clinton had been state governors for a little bit longer than Palin has been and they had attended many more governor conferences than Palin has as a governor.

Quote from the McCain people in another CNN article, "In defense, Republicans say the complaints are coming from "intellectual" conservatives — not Main Street Republicans, who they insist love the "hockey mom," from Alaska, as Palin describes herself."

Who do we want in the White House? I think us "intellectuals" on Main Street want someone who knows their stuff and has had a little more under their belt than less than two years as the head of state of a state that is thin on the population scale.

prjsuzieq   September 30th, 2008 11:15 am ET

Please, don't make me throw up by comparing Sarah Palin with Bill Clinton. Bill was a Rhodes Scholar, brilliant man. She is a hand-crafted Alaskan Fascist at best…….a mediocre small-town mayor and drama queen at worst, not deserving our attention or consideration in the slightest degree. McCain shows his ineptitude in decision making and leadership on this.. Considering he won't even release his medic al records, we need to all run the opposite direction from BOTH Palin & McClueless, as fast as possible!!!.

Alison B   September 30th, 2008 11:15 am ET

Looks like the babysitter is speaking… if only she can venture to be that good, how can she be when her babysitter follows her everywhere just to make sure she don't tell the secret.

McCain is obviously not thinking very clearly just the thought that she might even be in that category is just beyond anything I have heard so far, unbelievable and really one just has to laugh really loud at the nonsensical statement McCain has made to think…

Shay   September 30th, 2008 11:15 am ET

A lot of people are stepping up to the plate who are experts. They are airing it on tv and very heavy on radio. Governor Sarah Palin is not ready to be VP of the United States in a serious and complicated crisis that is happening now.

Governor Palin is simply not ready for the big league.

I just wish Governor Sarah Palin would save herself and bow out.

Anonymous   September 30th, 2008 11:15 am ET

i keep thinking mccain and palin can't get any dumber, THEN THEY DO.

Vilma   September 30th, 2008 11:15 am ET

Comparing Palin to President Clinton and Reagan is insulting to both former Presidents. McCain is out of his mind and should change his meds. Oh how I wish we could turn the clock back to the days of President Clinton and the booming economy and the days of glory for the USA.

Anthony   September 30th, 2008 11:15 am ET

Did any body notice in that reponds Mccain finaly admits that Palin does not have the experience……

Joe P   September 30th, 2008 11:15 am ET

This is a silly comparison, especially to Bill Clinton, whose academic credentials were are strong as any Presidents, before he took office.

Palin took five years and four different schools to get a degree in journalism, which is laudable to obtain a degree, but to compare her credentials with Clinton's is just not in the same league.

VDAL   September 30th, 2008 11:14 am ET

McCain lost his creidbility long time back…The worst thing a politician can be called is a liar… he is proving to be one while being not very good at it..

McCain/Palin is making Bush Cheney look intelleigent, throughful and wise.

So Obama might need to revise his message.. It is not four more years of Bush- it will worse than that with McCain and Palin…

Garp from Ohio   September 30th, 2008 11:14 am ET

»Sarah Palin will CHARM the entire COUNTRY!…

MB   September 30th, 2008 11:14 am ET

Johnboy can spin though, can't he? "What was it, a pizza place?" You know very well where it was, Senator, you're just trying to make it seem so inconsequential that you didn't even know that it was Tony Luke's and she was getting a cheesesteak. It was just some random pizza place, and the question was shouted across the room. Right.

Just like Obama didn't deliver his party on the 700B vote? Oh that's right, more republicans rejected the plan than dems. Ridiculous.

gail in kentucky   September 30th, 2008 11:14 am ET

No you guys seriously…. Something is wrong with McCain… I am not sure if the pressure is getting to him or what but he is not well. All jokes aside I really don't think he can hold up for the duration of the election let alone 4 years of presidency. You people better think long and hard before pulling the lever for him!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

SJR   September 30th, 2008 11:14 am ET

There is no way in the world that McCain can compare Palin to Bill Clinton. Clinton is a very intelligent man and can hold his own in any situation.

Selling jets on ebay for America   September 30th, 2008 11:14 am ET

For the record, Obama still hasn't clarified in what way he actually has sufficient experience to be the top name on the Democratic ticket. I know CNN and the Obamabot Whaaaaambulance would like to take America's eye of the real issue here. Nobody's fooled, though.

Atlanta   September 30th, 2008 11:14 am ET

ROFL – not quite….

Lone McCain Blogger   September 30th, 2008 11:14 am ET

Reagan and Clinton didn't be-de-be-de-be-de in interviews though.
But the bigger question is why did McCain have to come in and bail out Palin in the interviews? He's Pappy!

WhoCares?   September 30th, 2008 11:14 am ET

Gotcha Journalism???

C'Mon. Couric did everything she could to coach Palin into good answers.

This is just amazing. How the hell isn't this election already in the bag for Obama??…Oh ya..He's Black.

Carlton   September 30th, 2008 11:14 am ET

Watching the Palin DO OVER interview, with McCain watching, was like a VERY PROTECTIVE dad on "take your daughter to work day"

Is McCain going to hold her hand on Thursday too?

Joan   September 30th, 2008 11:14 am ET

Comparing Sarah Palin to President Clinton is an insult. President Clinton was a Rhodes scholar and a lawyer. You knew when he spoke he had the smarts. Not like Sarah Palin. Give me a break! McCain should stop spinning for Sarah Palin. When she speaks it is so obvious she is out of her league.

fed up female   September 30th, 2008 11:14 am ET

Bill Clinton had knowledge she is clueless. Can't hold her own in an interview without daddy McCain coming to her rescue. Clinton-Palin comparison is like apples and grapes.

Renee   September 30th, 2008 11:14 am ET

YOU HAVE GOT TO BE KIDDING!!!

Good grief   September 30th, 2008 11:14 am ET

McC-in-sane… must think Americans are completely gullible.
We've got news for him on Election day.

I'm getting so sick of his double-talk, retractions, lies, bragging, etc etc….. Mccain you are not respected anymore…..

Emperor   September 30th, 2008 11:14 am ET

The emperor has reached a point where he cannot listen to his own people, let alone the colorful nation of 300M+.

When people cant tell you truth, it simply means they have given up on you.
Blessings.

Bill   September 30th, 2008 11:14 am ET

Bill Clinton was a Rhodes Scholar and one of the most intelligent presidents we've ever had. Sara Palin is a box of rocks compared to Clinton. I supposed some find them "folksy" in the same ways, but Clinton is on the varsity while Palin is on the Freshman B team.

lmj   September 30th, 2008 11:14 am ET

This nonsense about them being the original "mavericks" is insane. All of you old timers know who the original mavericks were. Brett & Bart Maverick. They also were probably more up to date on the world situation than these 2 dim bulbs are.

williefloyd   September 30th, 2008 11:14 am ET

What an insult to the intelligence of all Americans. This man is in left field and doesn't even know if there is a ball game going on or not!!

Heaven help us.

OBAMA/BIDEN

Jan   September 30th, 2008 11:14 am ET

You lefties are strange in your thinking.. Are you all vegetarians? You would throw your body in front of a helicopter to save a vicious wolf that kills caribou and moose? By the same token you believe in "slaughtering innocent fetuses"-even your own? Maybe YOU need to live in Alaska for a while to understand the meaning of life? Someone else kills your beef and "lambs" and "pigs" for you. Elitist, maybe?

voter   September 30th, 2008 11:14 am ET

First, Regean and Clinton were unders estimated because they did not have years of experience in Washington. However, they both had an understanding of domestic issues and forgein. Palin appears to have no understanding or foundation of the issues. It is evident in her interviews. She looks clueless. Comparing her to clinton or regean is comparing apples to oranges. There is no comparison.

Randy of Cleveland   September 30th, 2008 11:14 am ET

I can't stop laughing! Want an insult to two great Presidents!! But then again that's right Clinton nor Regan could watch Russia from their house!! HAHAHA

David, Silver Spring, MD   September 30th, 2008 11:14 am ET

Is McCain trying to drive her to drink?

Why not just call her "a Lincoln for the 21st Century"?

Geez, way to play down expectations going into the debate!

Ryan - Michigan   September 30th, 2008 11:14 am ET

She has more experience than Obama. So I don't see why not.

Mike in Sacramento,Ca   September 30th, 2008 11:14 am ET

How dare Mccain use Palin's name next to Mr.Clinton or Mr.Reagan.

Anonymous   September 30th, 2008 11:14 am ET

Sarah is just a straight talker. She is not as experienced as others at public speaking, but if you really really listen to what the woman has to say, you would realize, just how unqualified she is. :)

Matthew   September 30th, 2008 11:14 am ET

Seriously? We have a "Republican" presidential nominee who is belittling Reagan to make a point that Gov. Palin is just as qualified? I can't believe more republicans like myself aren't ready to vote for Obama just out of spite alone for the reckless campaign John McCain has run. Now he is going to compare this small town mayor who has been governor less then two years to Ronald Reagan? Where oh where has my party gone?

SMR   September 30th, 2008 11:14 am ET

It just shows she can't can't hold her own. She needs McCain to be there to bail her out.

Nick - NY   September 30th, 2008 11:14 am ET

The more they try to artificially enhance Palin the more they insult us.

Max   September 30th, 2008 11:14 am ET

Ignoring the flaws that Reagan and Clinton each had, they were pretty well-versed in explaining intricacies of world issues despite having not experienced them first-hand. It takes a little more than being a governor to be comparable to Reagan and Clinton.

Too Much   September 30th, 2008 11:14 am ET

Wow… just wow.

UnBiased Common Sense   September 30th, 2008 11:14 am ET

I believe McCain did his camp a further disservice by sitting with Palin in her second round of interviews with Katie in attempt to clean-up everything she got wrong the first time. It appears – and may actually be the case – that Sarah cannot handle herself unless McCain is there holding her hand. Such behavior further plays into what now seems to be the belief of most Americans that Sarah is ill-equipped, lacks confidence, and is overall too ignorant to take the office she's seeking.

Sarah was McCain's gamble and appears, like in most cases where you gamble, you do it enough and you'll eventually loose – McCain's pride in trying to keep up with his 'maverick' status-quo will cost him the presidency.

Garp from Virginia   September 30th, 2008 11:14 am ET

»McCain/Palin 08 = OF COURSE.

AP   September 30th, 2008 11:14 am ET

You're comparing someone who had to go to five (5) community colleges and has zero foreign policy experience to President Clinton – a Rhodes scholar?????? These men had something Palin does not, and will not ever have – it's called a brain. C’mon, this was just posted to get attention – that’s all.

As an Independent, I like the prospect of a woman in the White House, but the more I have heard and seen, the more I now firmly believe that Palin is totally out of her league.

Let's face it no matter what the GOP does with Palin, it goes back to the old saying, "You can't polish a sneaker."

KJS   September 30th, 2008 11:13 am ET

Sarh Palin – Wiccan free since 2003

Phantom of the Oprah   September 30th, 2008 11:13 am ET

The boy who cried wolf:

First Obama attacks the best candidate of his own party. He falsely claims that Hillary – the VERY best Candidate in 50 years- is not qualified. He spins that She is a warmonger and a racist. He claims that She has no experience. Pretty soon- the warrior woman is swiftboated by race-baiting sexism and pro-Obama bias. We all watched in horror at this vitriolic intra-party war.

Next… The Obama does the VERY same thing with Palin- Yep… Palin is NO HILLARY. But now all the cries in the world fall on deaf ears. The boy cried wolf once and no one is listening now.

I voted – proudly- for the very best. Hillary Clinton. Now I will vote against Obama for the cheating and dirty politics he played.

No one is listening now… even if the criticism of Palin is vaild- WHY?
Because the same thing was done to Hillary and it was ANYTHING BUT valid.

Leena   September 30th, 2008 11:13 am ET

First he insults all intelligent Americans by clearly picking a woman who is not qualified to lead anything, then this article?

Even she has to know by now that she is simply out of her league. She's cramming for running the country like it's a test in high school.

Keep it real people– Does anyone really want her to get in office, McCain croak from old age and then she is our President?? McCain loses my vote simply for that reason alone.

McCain's age is showing in his mental reasoning and at this point it's not even funny anymore, just sad.

And by the way McCain…shame on you. I'm insulted you thought I would actually cast such a serious vote on gender, color or emotion vs. the issues. Anyone that votes for you and thereby her is not doing their homework.

NH Mom   September 30th, 2008 11:13 am ET

My family would all vote for Pres. Clinton again if we could. With that said, 2 are voting Obama, 1 is voting McCain and 1 (me) is still deciding between writing in Hillary or voting Obama. All of us would have voted for Hillary if she was the nominee.

Palin is a joke. When will the Republicans have a ticket with 2 qualified people? Seriously, we've had Palin, "W", Quayle. in the last 16 years.

voter   September 30th, 2008 11:13 am ET

First, Regean and Clinton were undersestimated because they did not have years of experience in Washington. However, they both had an understanding of domestic issues and forgein. Palin appears to have no understanding or foundation of the issues. It is evident in her interviews. She looks clueless. Comparing her to clinton or regean is comparing apples to oranges. There is no comparison.

Reese'-Rich VA   September 30th, 2008 11:13 am ET

This must be a JOKE right.. The only thing is I'm not laughing, something is seriously wrong with Mccain mentally. I can't believe this is there a doctor in the HOUSE???

William   September 30th, 2008 11:13 am ET

Palin has a better chance at being the next Dan Quayle than she does being the next Reagan or Clinton.

gp   September 30th, 2008 11:13 am ET

Ya, he realy convinced me that he is confident in her ehperience but the same time he come along to HER sessinon with Couric!!!!!!!!!!! That is unseen !!!!!!!!!!!!! She looked as litle girl that needs protection from papa!!!!!!!!!!! Mc Insane is realy loosing it, who is going to bay this story about his briliant pick!??? HE IS RECKLES !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Lupien   September 30th, 2008 11:13 am ET

Send McCain and Palin to Montreal. They could get a job with the Cirque du Soleil…

Big TEXAS   September 30th, 2008 11:13 am ET

Yeah right! This turd keeps pushing the envelope. Pretty soon its going to fall off the table. I think everyone under estimated Barrack Obama. He's the next Bill Clinton.

PD   September 30th, 2008 11:13 am ET

You've absolutely got to be kidding. Sarah Palin is nowhere near the inellect of Bill Clinton or the charisma and personality of Ronald Reagan. Should this individual be thrust from the frying pan into the fire, she would absolutely be destroyed. Can you picture Sarah Palin as the #2 decision maker on 9/11? I can't.

Jenn   September 30th, 2008 11:13 am ET

OK CNN 3rd try you all sound like the people who dooubted Clinton and Reagan

liz, from MO   September 30th, 2008 11:13 am ET

Comparing Sarah Palin to either Ronald Reagan or Bill Clinton is quiet a stretch. People are raising concerns as a result of Palin's performance in recent interviews but not necessarily as a result of 'lack of experience'.

Selling jets on ebay for America   September 30th, 2008 11:13 am ET

I doubt Palin has the same cigar fetish as ol' Bill.

Chris   September 30th, 2008 11:13 am ET

I am not suprise any more by what McCain says….

Phantom of the Oprah   September 30th, 2008 11:13 am ET

The boy who cried wolf:

First Obama attacks the best candidate of his own party. He falsely claims that Hillary- the VERY best Candidate in 50 years- is not qualified. He spins that She is a warmonger and a racist. He claims that She has no experience. Pretty soon- the warrior woman is swiftboated by race-baiting sexism and pro-Obama bias. We all watched in horror at this vitriolic intra-party war.

Next… The Obama does the VERY same thing with Palin- Yep… Palin is NO HILLARY. But now all the cries in the world fall on deaf ears. The boy cried wolf once and no one is listening now.

I voted – proudly- for the very best. Hillary Clinton. Now I will vote against Obama for the cheating and dirty politics he played.

No one is listening now… even if the criticism of Palin is vaild- WHY?
Because the same thing was done to Hillary and it was ANYTHING BUT valid.

Garp   September 30th, 2008 11:13 am ET

»Sarah Palin=So Beautiful!…so interesting!…so SMART!…Aah!…I want to see this TERRIFIC Lady in the WHITE HOUSE next to the GREAT man McCain!… YES!

Chicago for Obama   September 30th, 2008 11:13 am ET

I think she's the next Quale or Bush. Someone that speaks unintelligently and rambles on about nothing. And someone that scares the bejeezes out of you.

California Gold   September 30th, 2008 11:13 am ET

In my heart of hearts I believe McCain is really exhibiting senile dementia. Last week he suspended his campaign to deliver a spending bill, only to have egg on his face yesterday. Today is Tuesday: call up Palin to gather enthusiasm with hollow claims of greatness equal to Reagan (who is probably rolling in his grave–Reagan hated McCain for what McCain did to his first wife) and Bill Clinton. McCain really ought to undergo a thorough psych eval and physical with a neutral panel of qualified providers. He is all over the board. Today an unqualified new American joke is equal to 2 highly popular Presidents.

Richard   September 30th, 2008 11:13 am ET

Sarah Palin is the next Dan Quayle, but hopefully never in the White House.

sbriman200   September 30th, 2008 11:13 am ET

I'm lost when Palin said something about Putin was in Alaska airspace. She's full of air.

TW   September 30th, 2008 11:12 am ET

I don't recall Clinton, or Reagan, charging rape victims for the examination.

Jenn   September 30th, 2008 11:12 am ET

You all sound like the people ho doubted Clinton and Reagan

Leigh in CO   September 30th, 2008 11:12 am ET

McCain is so lost in the fog he doesn't he doesn't know which way is up anymore. Before Palin can be compared to Clinton she will need to learn a lot more about the world outside of Alaska.

NC Voter   September 30th, 2008 11:12 am ET

Clinton was a Rhodes scholar, studied at Oxford, and graduated from Yale Law School. I guess that is kind of like 5 colleges in 6 years – NOT. I am not saying everyone needs to be Ivy League, but people who go to that many schools in 6 years don't have their act together.

LG   September 30th, 2008 11:12 am ET

McCain is trying really hard to convince himself he made the right decision selecting Palin.

Palin is trying really hard to convince herself she can do this

Guess what YES WE CAN does not apply to them

Mary   September 30th, 2008 11:12 am ET

Last night's interview looked like a dad defending his daughter. Another bad move by McCain.

CBS has another portion of the interview that shows that Palin cannot cite another Supreme Court decision other than Roe v Wade. I wonder if CBS will air that, or fold to the pressure by the McCain campaign not to air it.

Lesley, Lighthouse Point, Fl   September 30th, 2008 11:12 am ET

Rash decisions and reactions are the corner stone of the McCain campaign. The Palin pick was a rash decision with undertones of a gimmick. To compare Palin to Reagan, who was the governor of a very largely populated state, or to Bill Clinton who is a Rode scholar is just plan stupid. Maybe I am wrong about this but…..Is it possible that Alaska is so remote from the mainland of the US, that she has just not been in touch with what is happening here? What a mess.

June   September 30th, 2008 11:12 am ET

John McCain gets worse every time he opens his mouth – comparing Palin to Clinton and Reagan; his judgmen is so flawed I would not vote for him if his opponent were Donald Duck! Palin is completely unqualified for Vice President of this Country; McCain likewise is unfit for the Presidency – they should both just SHUT UP AND GO AWAY!

betagreg   September 30th, 2008 11:12 am ET

It's a good thing Sarah Palin's Dad was there to protect her from Katie Couric…

priya from San Antonio   September 30th, 2008 11:12 am ET

Its not Palin's resume that has created the "enthusiasm", its her pretty face. Put a top model, actress or even a stripper in her place, and that would generate as much excitement!

Central Florida   September 30th, 2008 11:12 am ET

Are you kidding me, McCain? Obama is much closer to Reagan's strong diplomacy and Clinton's strength on the economy. Palin is not even close on either.

McCain's campaign seems a bit absurd.

Jeff-VA   September 30th, 2008 11:12 am ET

McCain is showing America his colossal bad judgment. Palin is bad joke.

Triggidy   September 30th, 2008 11:12 am ET

She looks terrifying in that picture. And no, she isn't the next Bill Clinton. Not real sure what they're grasping at here.

KMiley   September 30th, 2008 11:12 am ET

Gale,

Stockdale! That's it. Forget about Dan Quayle. Palin may be in line as worse than Stockdale! I had forgotten about him.

LockeNessMonster   September 30th, 2008 11:12 am ET

A, wasn't Clinton a Rhodes Scholar with a law degree from Yale? Clinton became governor in 1978 and didn't get the nomination for prez until the 90s. And Reagan was elected governor in the 60s and didn't get the Repub nomination until the 1980 election, after failing in 1976. Stupid analogies comparing Palin's background to Clinton and Reagan (who was also in the military), but this is John McCain we're talking about.

Selling jets on ebay for America   September 30th, 2008 11:12 am ET

Wow, I see the Obamabot whaaaaaambulance is running its shrill traitorous siren at full volume this morning.

steven   September 30th, 2008 11:12 am ET

She may be, but she won't be…

FAYE MOGHTADER   September 30th, 2008 11:12 am ET

it really is amazing how the mcain camp is pushing this womwn into the throats of americans,please do not compare her to reagon or clinton.clinton was a scholar,had gotten scholership from kennedy to go to oxford to study.please do not compare her to clinton,or reagon.both were very informed about the world affairs.we are not all stupid.

Tom in Delaware   September 30th, 2008 11:12 am ET

I'd love for Obama to come out and say to all the Children of the Corn, "To show your support for me, I want you all to carve a big 'O' on your foreheads."

Then I'd grab my popcorn, log onto this ticker, and read all the glowing and gushing comments about what a great leader he is!

Obama is the new Hitler, and the Repuplicans are the new Jews.

That makes the Obama'bot's the new Nazis.

God has a plan.

Her name is Sarah Palin.

Scy   September 30th, 2008 11:12 am ET

What???????????????????????/ You have GOT to be kidding. Reagan and Clinton with half a brain cell look like geniuses next to this blithering idiot.

the scary think isn't that she's stupid, it's that she thinks she's smart.

Latoya   September 30th, 2008 11:12 am ET

The verbal diatribe from my fellow Dems is pretty astonishing, the its their way or the highway attitude is what got Bush elected for a second term in the first place, Polosi’s highly belligerent comments before the vote only highlights and shows the ineptness of the current Dem controlled congress that has a 10% lower approval rating than even Bush, the most despised Pres of all time, what’s wrong with this picture, are we actually going to pretend that its all Ok. The Repugs have played Palin very close to the chest allowing small hiccups to surface and even though the Dems and the press have done all that is possible to derail her the Repugs have not withdrawn her from the ticket as yet, this bothers me, what’s their plan, at this point I am going to reserve my vote as well as opinion until after Thursday night, I do believe that Biden may be falling into a well devised trap.

Irving   September 30th, 2008 11:12 am ET

wow really? im speechless.

Independents,NY   September 30th, 2008 11:12 am ET

Does he really expect us to buy this? Gotcha lines, not her policy positions because she was talking to a voter in a pizza place? Please! This is the most ludicrous thing I've heard yet. Anything Senator Obama or Biden say ANYWHERE is publicly scritinized to the highest degree by the McCain camp and everywhere else. Don't tell me that we should just ignore her screw ups because that's what he says we should do. She is fair game just like the rest of them. If she can't take it, then too bad, quit crying and buck up or get out!!!!! He's trying to save face because he knows he picked a complete buffoon on domestic and foreign policy outside of the state of Alaska. You can't take it back now Senator, you chose her, now live with it. I just hope the American people don't have to live with it. You think we have problems in this country now???? If they get elected, you haven't seen anything yet.

Bob   September 30th, 2008 11:12 am ET

Wow. maybe we deserve what we get if American's believe She is ready to be President…You think your angry now America, watch where four more years will have you…Even a dog knows not to use a bum leg and walk with the other three. Heck, McCain has shown me can't manage his way out of a paper bag.

Just simply a pitiful display by a man whom I respected.

Anonymous   September 30th, 2008 11:12 am ET

Well Clinton went to Georgetown, Yale and was a Rhodes scholar at Oxford. Palin went to 6 average schools and finished a journalism degree in five years (or was it six?) years. Regan governed a state with an economy that ranked ahead of all but a half dozen countries. Palin governs one with a population smaller than half a dozen California cities. What is McCain on?

Jenn   September 30th, 2008 11:12 am ET

You all sound like the people who doubted Reagan and Clinton

vanDamme   September 30th, 2008 11:12 am ET

ARE YOU KIDDING ME?? HAHHHAHA

i love the juxtaposition of pictures..

a saluting Reagan, a playful and sensitive Bill and a dark and brooding Palin with bombs and evil on her mind. mwah ha haa

cnn is the new george carlin, only retarded and worthless.

Martha   September 30th, 2008 11:12 am ET

One major difference between Palin and Clinton (and for that matter, Reagan) is that Palin has never before been on the national stage nor has she expressed much interest in national and international issues. For McCain to select Palin just weeks before the election and expect her to measure up to previous governors who were able to be vetted by the media and the public for many months was an impulsively poor choice.

SarainDallas   September 30th, 2008 11:12 am ET

What a Joke?!? Your askng if Palin could be the next Clinton or Reagan? Oh Please!

John, Brooklyn, New York   September 30th, 2008 11:12 am ET

That's it CNN…let's raise expectations for her performance at the debate so that her "crash and burn" will be that much more devestating!!!

For the record…Palin vs. Reagan: Reagan was governor of California. Hello! The population of Alaska is smaller than Sausalito!

And….Palin vs. Clinton: Clinton was a Rhodes Scholar and had an Ivy League law degree. Palin tranferred colleges 3 times and spent six years before she could find a school that would give a degree.

Bottom line…not only is there no comparison – they're laughable!

M.Serafin   September 30th, 2008 11:12 am ET

Think the better person to compare her to, is the Iranian leader, he was a small town mayor to too, once..

David   September 30th, 2008 11:12 am ET

McCain's kidding isn't he? He's not getting enough oxygen to his brain.

Reagan was a "great communicator" and two term governor of California. He led one of the most significant states in the Union.

Clinton was smarter than both McCain and Palin put together.

I am hoping that the American people don't want to have another regular guy running the country. I would like to have someone who is smarter than me running this country.

irony   September 30th, 2008 11:12 am ET

she couldn't even run the campaign for four hours while mccain was at dinner with lieberman bailing out the country. Oh I forgot he didn't bailout the country.

vicki   September 30th, 2008 11:12 am ET

McCain is officially insane and lost his mind. Period!!!

MikeH   September 30th, 2008 11:11 am ET

It's called Beta Amyloid Plaque, it builds up in the brain and causes dementia. As evidenced by McCain's non-sensical statements and flat out untruths.

BH   September 30th, 2008 11:11 am ET

Please do not insult President Clinton,s intelligence by comparing dumb Palin to president Clinton.

Latina for Obama (nj)   September 30th, 2008 11:11 am ET

WHAT??????? He lost it!!!!

YES WE CAN!!

Garp   September 30th, 2008 11:11 am ET

»I LOVE Sarah Palin!!…I am NOT dumb.

Rise in Memphis   September 30th, 2008 11:11 am ET

McCain must be senile. Comparing Palin to Reagan or Clinton is beyond ridiculous. Remember their early campaign interviews years ago? They actually gave coherent, intelligent answers. Palin? Watching her with Gibson and Couric was nothing short of pathetic.

Z in TX   September 30th, 2008 11:11 am ET

Bill Clinton was a Rhodes scholar and arguably the most intellectual president ever. Palin managed to graduate from college in six years. Nice comparison.

Amy   September 30th, 2008 11:11 am ET

I saw part of that interview. He was claiming that the voter asking her the question about Pakistan was "gotcha journalism." How is speaking with a voter gotcha journalism? She knew she had media around her!

I think that Reagan and Clinton were far more qualified at the point they ran for national office than Palin is. One more point, I thought that she was running for VP. Unless it really is going to be a Palin/McCain ticket similar to how it seems to have been a Cheney/Bush ticket in some respects…

mccain's affirmative action pick   September 30th, 2008 11:11 am ET

Reagan was govenor of the most populous state. Clinton was a Yale educated lawyer and Rhodes scholar. Big difference

Jesse   September 30th, 2008 11:11 am ET

Is McCain undermining himself when he compares Palin to Clinton and Reagan? Those two were running for President. I suppose the alternative argument would be that she is so good you can make that comparison. Though I find that argument so far from plausible it gives me the shivers just thinking about it. I wonder, has there been a time when a presidential candidate deferred to the popularity of the vp pick so much? Can this possibly be good for McCain?
Either way, I think a more appropriate presidential comparison

Patrick Harrison   September 30th, 2008 11:11 am ET

After reading the previous comments, i know who is insane, has really lost it, and needs a checkup – sexism to the ultimate quatrain. Funny how low achievers tend to disrespect and disparage real accomplishment in others. How many of you ever achieved the level of governor of a state and have 80% of the citizens believe in you? Get real and get back to work and accomplish something yourself.

Danielle, TX   September 30th, 2008 11:11 am ET

While I was only 10 yrs old when Reagan was elected, I don't have much knowledge about his intellect. However, Bill Clinton is a Rhodes Scholar, so although he may have been an inexperienced governor, he was very intelligent. Sarah Palin….not so much.

Hussein and proud of it!   September 30th, 2008 11:11 am ET

"In a conversation with someone who you didn't hear … the question very well, you don't know the context of the conversation, grab a phrase. "

No, Senator McCain. If someone asks a question you con't hear very well, you ask that person to repeat it. Even so, Gov. Palin was answering the question she thought she heard — she was clear that she supported going into Pakistan without the consent of the Pakistani government.

Marilyn of AR   September 30th, 2008 11:11 am ET

McCain is the last one to fly over the coo coo nest.

Tim   September 30th, 2008 11:11 am ET

Catch phrases and rhetoric. They must think they sound elegant and intellectual when they speak at interviews. Once you read what they say in print, you can see how senseless and ignorant they are.
Did you read any of Palin's interviews? Words with no meaning or relevance to the questions she's asked. Mitt says she needs to speak more. Yes…let the people hear what she has to say. That's the best thing for them to do right now.Let her open her mouth and show us what a baffoon she is. McCain is right up with her too. I don't want this dottering old man leading my country for the next four years…..if he lives that long. If not, then we have soccer mom to take over.
Please don't let this country fall any further than it already has.

James   September 30th, 2008 11:11 am ET

lol… This is funnier than Saturday Night Live. Hopefully, the American public won't be this dumb to fall for it…

Phantom of the Oprah   September 30th, 2008 11:11 am ET

The plight of the boy who cried wolf:

First claims that Hillary- the VERY best Candidate in 50 years- is not qualified. She is a warmonger and a racist. She has no experience. Pretty soon- the warrior woman is swiftboated by race-baiting sexism and pro-Obama bias.

Next… The Obama does the same thing with Palin- Yep… Palin is NO HILLARY. But now all the cries in the world fall on deaf ears. The boy cried wolf once and no one is listening now.

I voted – proudly- for the very best. Hillary Clinton. Now I will vote against Obama for the cheating and dirty politics he played.

No one is listening now… even if the criticism of Palin is vaild- WHY?
Because the same thing was done to Hillary and it was ANYTHING BUT valid.

nalini   September 30th, 2008 11:11 am ET

I really do not get this whole palin comparisons. they compare her to Obama, reagan and now clinton, come on now, will you stop it.

this dumb non comprehensible illerate person cannot be compared to barack especially, barack went to Havard, president of the harvard law review, he is very intelligent, please do not insuly his intellengence, even bill clinton but you see, those are bill clinton friends so I am pretty sure he don't mind mccain comparing palin's intelligence to his, shameful.

people, please do not vote for mccain becasue the probablity is very high that PALIN WILL BE OUT PRESIDENT, mccain could get sick, he is not very healthy, he wont release his medical records and got that melanoma cancer.

you now have two choices, do you want PALIN OR OBAMA. IT IS YOUR CHOOSING.

tlm   September 30th, 2008 11:11 am ET

What a joke. Unlike Clinton, Palin has no smarts whatsoever. And unlike Reagan, she can't remember her lines or deliver them appropriately. Her "journalism" degree is doing her no good whatsover, since she clearly doesn't understand the media. Why Alaska, why? What was in your Kool-Aid the day this woman was elected?

USA Forever!   September 30th, 2008 11:11 am ET

I remember Ted Kennedy saying at the 2004 DNC convention that the country cannot afford 4 more years of Bush. People voted Bush into office anyway, and now, we ALL feel like fools because our country is almost in financial ruin.

No matter what the advisers or media say on tv, we cannot afford to have John McCain in office. Please don't fall for voting for Bush again. Our country is barely hanging on.

edgeways   September 30th, 2008 11:11 am ET

The big difference? Clinton had intelligence and style, Regan, for as much as I didn't care for him had a style that resonated and enough "folksy charm" to make up for the rest of his failings in many people's eyes. Policy wise I thought he was a disaster, but he seemed very likable on a personal basis.

Palin, does not have the intelligence, and her style is a bit brittle. I wouldn't trust her with my wallet, or even with sharp objects. She has a long track history of petty vindictiveness and is just a train-wreck.

Brian   September 30th, 2008 11:11 am ET

Let's be clear about the profound stupidity of McCain's statement.

What McCain is doing here is drawing a parallel between the fact that Clinton, Reagan and Palin were/are all underestimated when running for office.

He then makes an ILLOGICAL conclusion that because Clinton and Reagan were both underestimated and turned out to be highly intelligent and effective politicians, that Palin must also be a highly intelligent and effective politician.

The huge problem here, as it has been revealed, is that Palin is NEITHER intelligent OR effective, disproving McCain's IF/THEN argument, which is why it immediately comes across as pure spin.

Furthermore, it should seriously infuriate any intelligent voter that McCain is either trying to dupe us, or is actually so stupid as to believe the statement he made.

Dixie   September 30th, 2008 11:11 am ET

Do we really need another Clinton?

Rosie   September 30th, 2008 11:11 am ET

The tradegy of this whole thing is that it doesn't matter to many Republicans how much she stumbles, they will vote for McCain/Palin anyway. They will make endless excuses for her. It doesn't matter if she sits down at the debate with Biden and sticks her tongue out at everyone. Noboby will care. The one thing McCain has going for him is the fact that Obama is black. Many unfortunately will vote against Obama because of this. The campaign is banking on this. Don't be surprised if the McCain campaign gets desperate and pulls out a race card at the end.

In the end, people will see what they want to even if their vote hurts their own economic interests.

Garp of Cosmos Rocks   September 30th, 2008 11:11 am ET

»Sarah Palin=BRILLIANT Lady=HONEST Leader=Our next Vice-President. Yes.

Tim   September 30th, 2008 11:11 am ET

No, Sarah Palin is not the next Bill Clinton. Bill Clinton actually knew what was going on. Palin is obviously not ready on so many levels.

Stop Palin, OH   September 30th, 2008 11:11 am ET

Thanks, but no thanks. It is very disrespectful of McCain to call Reagan a cowboy as much as to call Palin a pig with lipstick. During the interview, McCain had a difficult time to pay attention and to control his temper. He is desperate and Palin was like his granddaughter who just got a probation at school….

Alan Fisher   September 30th, 2008 11:10 am ET

Re: Comparing Bill Clinton to Sarah Palin. Sarah Palin attended four different schools before earning her degree at Univ of Idaho. That's it for her education.

Bill Clinton – graduated from the Edmund Walsh School of Foreign Service at Georgetown with a B.S. in Foreign Service and was elected to Phi Beta Kappa; worked as an intern for Senator Fulbright; won a Rhodes Scholarship to attend University College of Oxford in England; earned his J.D. degree from the Yale University Law School.

Are these two backgrounds comparable?

MCAINNOW!   September 30th, 2008 11:10 am ET

The dems is scared of beautiful Sarah she will kill the Russians before they attack us at home!!!!!!!! America hating Obama will invite terrorists here and give them our jobs. VOTE JOHN AND SARAH!!!!!

Earl   September 30th, 2008 11:10 am ET

Comparing McPlain to Clinton?…..let's put a couple of things together

Clinton……lawyer

McPlain….BA in Journalism (6 years, 6 colleges)

Hmmmm…..some comparison

liz, from Mo   September 30th, 2008 11:10 am ET

Compairing Sarah Palin to either Ronald Reagan or Bill Clinton is quiet a stretch….

Darryl   September 30th, 2008 11:10 am ET

Sensorship Why can't I call her a brainless wonder who take money from big Oil and she committed tax fraud….

Michael Vick ATL GA   September 30th, 2008 11:10 am ET

Like dave Letterman said, someone's been putting something in McCain's metamucil (sp?)

SENATUS POPOLUSQUE ROMANUS   September 30th, 2008 11:10 am ET

If McCain wants to compare Palin to Clinton or Reagan, he needs URGENTLY a straight jacket and some electroshock treatment….

Vincent Spaulding   September 30th, 2008 11:10 am ET

I would never have called either Reagan or Clinton stupid, but as adjectives go it fits Palin to a tee. And yes, McCain has taken a long walk on the short pier of sanity…..he left it a while ago!

Never Barak Obama (PUMA)   September 30th, 2008 11:10 am ET

Keep dis-respecting Palin "a woman," the same way Hillary was disrespected and Palin will have a movement/cause come election day that would put McCain in the WH.

RACHEL   September 30th, 2008 11:10 am ET

Sarah Palin the next Clinton??? The next Reagan??? I don't know whether to laugh at the absurdity or be terrified at the idea that this delusional old man and this unqualified hockey mom could soon be in power of the most powerful nation in the world.

VOTE OBAMA/BIDEN!!

jeff in MA   September 30th, 2008 11:10 am ET

or how about the next biggest political joke.

Ryan   September 30th, 2008 11:10 am ET

I find it telling that McCain didn't trust Palin to do another interview on her own. He had to sit right there next to her, making sure she didn't screw up again.

Watch his face during her answers. You can see him praying she doesn't say something stupid.

Winnie in Montana   September 30th, 2008 11:10 am ET

Oh, Palin is no Clinton or Reagan. McCain must have truly lost his mind. Clinton, at least, was very intelligent, personable, reasonable, and well educated. Palin – journalist, undergrad at Idaho, no graduate school, far to the right/fringe. Not even a close comparison.

Tracy   September 30th, 2008 11:10 am ET

It is unfair to even suggest that Palin may be the next Clinton or Regan. Both of these men had a base knowledge of national and international events and concerns prior to their presidential runs. Gov. Palin's knowledge base appears to be so narrow that one must question her knowledge of Alaskan issues. I do believe that she will do better than is expected, only because the expectations are so low. I also believe that there is a desire by the media to find a redeeming quality in this ridiculous choice of McCain's.

medina1   September 30th, 2008 11:10 am ET

Chelsea Clinton is more intelligent and qualified than Palin

V.B.   September 30th, 2008 11:10 am ET

Who are we kidding? Palin can't hold a candle to either one of those gentlemen. Her repeat performance on the CBS News appeared to be a "do over." She didn't get it right the first time so there was McCain telling us all what she meant. Why didn't he put her on his knee and do a Charlie McCarthy?

ACT   September 30th, 2008 11:10 am ET

CNN, please report actual issues impacting Americans, let us move on from this Palin side show.

She is not going to be next Bill Clinton, He was an Oxford educated / Rhodes Scholar (Brilliant) / Lawyer / Law professor / 3 terms Arkansas Governor / DNC Leader of Governors… before he ran for President.

Palin has a Journalism degree, and has only been governor of Alaska for 190 days.

Please report something worthwhile, Thank you

MK   September 30th, 2008 11:10 am ET

OMG. Is he on the sauce too? I think at one time I COULD have voted for McCain, I used to like him. I CAN NOT vote for him now because he caved to the right and picked Dobson's choice for a VP. To him the choice was to keep the religious zealots happy (and pick Palin, Dobson as much as confirmed it when after the pick he said "now I can vote for John McCain") and trot out the abortion smoke screen and think we all would buy it. I think the people of this Country are SICK of smoke screens and politicians we can't believe. Palin is WEAK and John McCain acts like her father, protecting her from even voters questions now. I look for him to be front and center at her debate on Thursday, feeding her the "party line" as we used to say of the KGB. God help us all if the country is dumb enough to buy their snake oil. I personally am looking for someplace else to live if that happens. I guess I would rather watch the further destruction of our country from afar. The whole world is watching us and counting on us to make the right choice and that choice is Obama/Biden.

Phantom of the Oprah   September 30th, 2008 11:10 am ET

The boy who cried wolf:

First claims that Hillary- the VERY best Candidate in 50 years- is not qualified. She is a warmonger and a racist. She has no experience. Pretty soon- the warrior woman is swiftboated by race-baiting sexism and pro-Obama bias.

Next… The Obama does the same thing with Palin- Yep… Palin is NO HILLARY. But now all the cries in the world fall on deaf ears. The boy cried wolf once and no one is listening now.

I voted – proudly- for the very best. Hillary Clinton. Now I will vote against Obama for the cheating and dirty politics he played.

No one is listening now… even if the criticism of Palin is vaild- WHY?
Because the same thing was done to Hillary and it was ANYTHING BUT valid.

Ken in Dallas   September 30th, 2008 11:10 am ET

If we're stretching this to presidential family members, Palin reminds me a lot of Billy Carter.

She's a little like Reagan since she still believes the laissez-faire dogma Reagan rebranded as "supply-side economics,"and, like Reagan, isn't much of a critical thinker.

Much like Reagan, Palin's better qualified to be a press secretary than a president.

Wilfrid   September 30th, 2008 11:10 am ET

He can't be for real. He will do anything to become president and he has even said that.

Lars   September 30th, 2008 11:10 am ET

More like Reagan – only her dementia started while in college number 4.

JImmy in California   September 30th, 2008 11:09 am ET

I am a Democrat and I think that Senator McCain made a good decision for Democrats. Let her keep being Palin. Just advise him not to go hunting with her.

Charlie   September 30th, 2008 11:09 am ET

Senator McCain is letting his credibility show.

Burt - Brooklyn, NY   September 30th, 2008 11:09 am ET

Palin the next Clinton? Uhhh… Clinton was a Rhodes Scholar. Though Palin did win the MacArthur Genius Grant for her successful demonstration that Moose jerky can be used to heat homes 10x more efficiently than electricity.

Oppose Zig Zag Express   September 30th, 2008 11:09 am ET

McCain is becoming more and more DELUSIONAL!!

Voter asking a candidate specific question is now "a gotcha" question.

McCain's judgement at this critical point in America's history and world politics is Questionable and out right crazy concerning a lot of issues , Palin being just one of these issues.

If McCain believes his lies and delusions, I just hope not enough Americans will believe him.

God bless America.

McCain has to be joking   September 30th, 2008 11:09 am ET

What an insult to Ronald Regan and Bill Clinton.

Annie, Atlanta   September 30th, 2008 11:09 am ET

A voter asking a question of a candidate is "gotcha jornalism." What next, he and Palin's continuous lies are true American patriotism?

Martha   September 30th, 2008 11:09 am ET

No. She will never be another Bill Clinton, that's for sure! Why? Let's begin with Georgetown University, Rhodes Scholarship, Yale Law School. Compare that to five years at five colleges (most people can do it in four at one school!) with a degree (finally!) from the University of Idaho, which may indeed be a perfectly fine school, but quite honestly, is no Georgetown, no Oxford, no Yale. Bill Clinton is SMART, intelligent, curious, intellectually competent. Ms. Palin has so far demonstrated very little ability (if any) to grasp complex issues, NO ability to articulate her extraordinarily unsophisticated views of the world. Dear lord, no! Mr. McCain's most egregious disservice to this country has been to OVER estimate her potential. It's time that intelligence — true, raw, native intelligence — resumed its rightful role as an important qualification for the highest office not only in this land, but arguable, world-wide.

Vivian   September 30th, 2008 11:09 am ET

It seems that not many people are concerned about Palin's "on the job training." Who's going to "train" her if McCain gets the slot and then dies during office? It is a possibility. Another puppet…just what we need.

I have been saying for some time now that Palin will be asked to step away and will be replaced by Lieberman. Biblethumper votes -secured;angry Hillary supporter votes- secured; Lieberman walks in, undecided votes-secured. Political posturing at it's best/worst. Ya…that's the kind of administration I want running this Country! NOT!

Robert   September 30th, 2008 11:09 am ET

Evidently anyone can be the next Ronald Reagan or Bill Clinton. Our mayor has done an okay job in my town, I'll alert the Obama campaign just in case Biden has to drop out due to health reasons.

concerned american   September 30th, 2008 11:09 am ET

McCain's wishful thinking is laughable. Neither does Palin have Ronald Reagan's charisma and wisdom, nor does she posses Clinton's ability to answer tough questions with tremendous level of credibility and knowledge of the subject.
Anyone who considers Palin to be the leadership of this nation should watch her interview with Katie Couric. Enough said. Really, enough said.

James   September 30th, 2008 11:09 am ET

That' insult to Prisident Reagon and Clinton.

Gary Chandler in Canada   September 30th, 2008 11:09 am ET

It would NOT HAVE 'been wise' to let her talk. It would be honest (straight talking???)
There are TOO MANY questions she canNOT answer!
*she said she will change McCain's little mind on drilling in Anwar
Will she change McCain's mind on 'birth control 'sex education 'abortion for rape victims ' funding pro choice groups 'taking out Bin Laden?
* what type of rifle does she use shooting wolves from planes
* She says global warming does not exist. This is ONE of the maverick stances McCain took against Bush.
* her tax records
* her record on ear marks and bridges to nowhere
* her husband's and her involvement in the "America Hating" Separatists
* Trooper Gate
*** THESE ISSUES MUST BE KEPT BURIED they canNOT 'let her loose'

Paul Revere   September 30th, 2008 11:09 am ET

YOU'VE GOT TO BE KIDDING, CNN…

Bill Clinton was/is a Scholar, a politcal animal, and arguably, a flawed genius.

Ronald Reagan was an optimist wrapped in a social conservative/actor/crpytofascist wrapper, that had a unique ability to reach the people on an an emotional level.

Palin is none of these things – a climber, yes (very necessary to accel, granted) But in no way a critical thinker that has created her own 'schtick' who's 'a-shakin' up and a-fixin' stuff…Only truly capable politicians can command respect not only from their allies but also their enemies, from afar as well as during the odd photo-op.

Johnr   September 30th, 2008 11:09 am ET

Again, when one compares Palin to Biden the question begs to be asked, do we really want Biden negotiating with our advarsaries? Who knows what he will say next – the man has no common sense,
He is the one who is very questionable to step into the presidency.
Comparing Obama to Palin still shows she has more real experience than Obama and far better judgement, and by recent statements from Obama, Palin has far more intergirty as well.

I laugh when the Dems try to point to the Bush admin as the casue of this – they blocked McCAin legislation in 05 to put more regulation into Freddie and Fannie becasue they were lining thier pockets on the deal. Since they have been dishonest up to this point, why would any of us expect to hear anything different than the Dems trying to put balme anywhere but on themselves – very predicatable.

Greg-Minneapolis   September 30th, 2008 11:09 am ET

I agree some may be underestimating her, but she will be lucky to be remembered somewhere in between Quayle and Ferraro.

Sheila   September 30th, 2008 11:09 am ET

Sara "I can see Russia from my house," Palin is in over her head. It is obvious to anyone who hears her speak. If she were elected Vice President, we would have even bigger diplomacy problems in the world judging by what comes out of her mouth.

ck   September 30th, 2008 11:09 am ET

I see all this as very sad. If Hillary had run for the Senate from NY when she was First Lady, I would have thought she was doing something with WOW. If Sarah had waited and run for Congress, either house, I would have seen her as something other than a political move by McCain.
One day women will run this country, but please let it be the very best our country has to offer! This country deserves the best person possible, man or woman.

BBB   September 30th, 2008 11:09 am ET

Why won't he just let the woman speak for herself… I am NOT a fan/supporter of the ticket, but I was insulted for her when Couric specifically asked HER a question and HE answered. It's like back in the days where a woman was to sit there look pretty, make her husband look good but not open her mouth.

MiamiGeorge   September 30th, 2008 11:09 am ET

Lying has become McCain's latest compulsion–once he started, he seemed to want to do it more and more, until he got to a place where he is saying the most absurd things imaginable. It's just like any other addiction, you know it's destroying you, but you just can't stop.

irony   September 30th, 2008 11:09 am ET

whether you like he r or hate her palin is incompetent. It is obvious from the fact that old man mccain had to go with her to the interview with Katie Couric and answer questions for her. I hope the repubs take romney's advice and let her talk more. We could all use the comic relief at this tough economic time.

Andy in Charlotte, NC   September 30th, 2008 11:09 am ET

"Holding Sarah Palin to just three interviews and microscopically focusing on each interview I think has been a mistake". Just wait until he becomes president and makes much more serious mistakes and more frequently!! The man married into money, got his plane shot down, is struggling with his campaign, gets borders and countries mixed up, and agrees with Bush most of the time.

sheldon   September 30th, 2008 11:09 am ET

Nice try, but no dice. Palin has neither the natural-born leadership skills of Ronald Reagan nor the brainpower and political acumen of Bill Clinton. Her political abilities are overrated, and she seems to rely primarily on alienation, divisiveness and fingerpointing. She is and will remain way out of her league.

NB   September 30th, 2008 11:09 am ET

John MacCain is funny. May be after loosing the election he can start a new career as a comedian. I don't think you care about the country.
if that was the case you should not have selected this woman.
She is facing more investigations than any other governers in this country. She even used to accept salmon as a gift when she was a mayor that is cheap. She abused her power in her short term as a governer. How low can you go John MacCain trying to defend this woman . God save us from McCain and Palin.

Matt   September 30th, 2008 11:09 am ET

Blah blah blah. Nobody hid Reagan or Clinton behind their coattails. Pony up or shut up McCain. Let her off the leash and put your money where your mouth is.

Joe   September 30th, 2008 11:09 am ET

She actually does make Dan Quayle look like a genius. Actually he was fairly intelligent, just managed to say the wrong thing at the wrong time, but nothing even close to the way she speaks.

Clinton was (is) a very intelligent person. In fact wasn't he a Rhodes Scholar? Little different from Palin who attended 5 colleges in 6 years, to get her 4-year degree.

Reagan certainly wasn't very bright, but he was an actor. That may have helped him fool so many people. Yet, every time I watched him give a speech, I always felt he was lying. Always.

Becky   September 30th, 2008 11:09 am ET

McCain shows poor judgment in selecting Sarah Palin, and even more poor judgment now for choosing to be in denial of Sarah Palin's blatant and dangerous ignorance.

Enough attacking Sarah Palin. All eyes on McCain for selecting a poor choice. McCain cares more about winning this election than about us American people. Exhibit A: Sarah Palin.

Randy   September 30th, 2008 11:08 am ET

Clinton was a Rhodes scholar who went to Oxford. He was the youngest governor ever elected at 32 and served as such for 2 plus terms.

Reagan was the president of the Screen Actors Guild, spokesman for GE, 2 term governor and ran for president once before getting elected.

How is this comparison even close to realistic??? Palin is not in the same league.

MD for Obama   September 30th, 2008 11:08 am ET

DAVE IN ATLANTA:

I agree with you. Everytime this woman opens her mouth I have more respect for Dan Quayle! SEND HER HOME!

Vincent, Great Lakes, Illinois   September 30th, 2008 11:08 am ET

What is John McCain smoking these days? Sarah Palin doesn't hold a candle to most of the men and women I have been in contact with.

Wendy in CA   September 30th, 2008 11:08 am ET

It's sad when the early stages of Alzheimer's is so blatantly obvious in a USA presidential candidate…

Jeremiah Hay   September 30th, 2008 11:08 am ET

This is absolutely absurd – there were other governors who on the surface seemed to lack experience or ability, but Palin lacks not only those, but essence, intelligence, political know-how, and a good grasp on how federal politics work.
Clinton never fudged his way through three consecutive interviews, and neither did Reagan – they did their research and gave educated, intelligent answers, where as Palin has a nasty habit for just dumping buzzwords and saying "we can't blink."
Palin is dangerously unqualified to be VICE president. And this isn't just from some far-left liberal nutcase, this is from firmly established conservative journalists. Anyone making a case that she's just as qualified as Reagan or Clinton to be president is pulling a fast one on you.
Don't buy it.

"Foolishness"   September 30th, 2008 11:08 am ET

According to McCain it's "foolishness" to question what he is thinking, he just knows better than all the rest of us. At least that is the stance he gave in the interview with George Stephanopolis. He really does believe he knows whats best without hearing anybody else's input!!! Don't you know America – we're all stupid to him!!

Independent   September 30th, 2008 11:08 am ET

…And I'm going to be the next Ghandi

Frank   September 30th, 2008 11:08 am ET

McCain is in a state of denial and so are his supporters. She is absolutely clueless on important issues facing this country.

MissyM   September 30th, 2008 11:08 am ET

Ronald Reagan was governor of a state with more than 20 Million people – and his trickle-down policies paved the way for our current economic meltdown. He was a journalism major at a small college, and he didn't understand the greater world around him either, so I guess it's an ok comparison. Not a ringing endorsement by any means, since again, his trickle-down policies paved the way for our current crisis.

Bill Clinton was a Rhodes Scholar who oversaw the best economic times this country had seen in decades. Unless Governor Palin goes back in time and smartens up a bit, I don't think the comparison is a valid one.

Chuck   September 30th, 2008 11:08 am ET

When is McCain going to start talking about the issues and offer solutions like Obama is doing?

I've noticed that McCain is constantly on the attack. Is that the kind of president we want? I don't think so!

laura pont   September 30th, 2008 11:08 am ET

HAS MCCAIN BEEN LISTENING TO WHAT SHE SAYS IN THE 3 INTERVIEWS SHE HAS HAD?
MCCAIN HAS TRULY LOST HIS MIND IN KEEPING HER AS HIS RUNNING MATE.
GOOD FOR OBAMA. GUESS SECRETLY SHE IS OBAMA'S GREATEST SUPPORTER.

Lisa M   September 30th, 2008 11:08 am ET

Nah, looks like she's the next Governor not to be elected VP.
Can McCain dump her at this point in time?

She a major liability.

If he needed someone with two X chromosomes, there were a lot more out there with better qualifications.

Or is he trying to lose the election. I'm not sure that anybody would really want to be prez right now.

Bill - North Carolina   September 30th, 2008 11:08 am ET

Enough hate speech, you Dems. Sarah Palin is head and shoulders above both of your candidates in most respects, including clarity and honesty. On to victory with McCain and Palin.

Tucson, AZ   September 30th, 2008 11:08 am ET

Seriously, that comment is not ok…wow for that McCain.

hd   September 30th, 2008 11:08 am ET

YOU'VE GOT TO BE KIDDING, CNN…

Bill Clinton was/is a Scholar, a politcal animal, and arguably, a flawed genius.

Ronald Reagan was an optimist wrapped in a social conservative/actor/crpytofascist wrapper, that had a unique ability to reach the people on an an emotional level.

Palin is none of these things – a climber, yes (very necessary to accel, granted) But in no way a critical thinker that has created her own 'schtick' who's 'a-shakin' up and a-fixin' stuff…Only truly capable politicians can command respect not only from their allies but also their enemies, from afar as well as during the odd photo-op.

Todd   September 30th, 2008 11:08 am ET

is that a joke????

Ron from Baltimore   September 30th, 2008 11:08 am ET

Outrageous inflation of expectations. Something else is going on with this McCain character.

Reagan had been a versatile actor, along with his Hollywood wife; and Pres of the Screen Actors Guild for years. He served two terms of Gov of our most complex and forward-looking state, demographics wise.

Clinton was a Rhodes Scholar, and for several years was a fund-raiser giving barn-raising speeches on behalf of the Democratic Party. And a lawyer to boot, along with his wife.

inner conversations may have differed some in the Clinton-Palin and Reagan-Palin households, yes?

Timothy   September 30th, 2008 11:08 am ET

This is just sad.

Laura, Boston   September 30th, 2008 11:08 am ET

No, I like John McCain but Sarah Palin is not a Rhodes Scholar like Bill Clinton. She may be similiar to Ronald Regan only that she is very down to Earth and like Regan was may be underestimated.

I think that is the point Senator McCain was making. Don't underestimate her based on a couple of bad interviews. Let's wait until Thursday night and see how she does.

Laura, Boston

Bing   September 30th, 2008 11:08 am ET

McCain really needs to allow Palin to stand on her own, speak her mind, and answer questions from reporters. It's absolutely ridiculous that a Vice Presidential candidate has been this sheltered. It may be too late. They should have used the momentum from the convention and allow her to grow and develop confidence when dealing with the media.
I was a supporter of McCain, but I cannot, in good faith, vote for the ticket of McCain-Palin, because of Sarah Palin. The thought of her rising to the office of President ,at any moment, is utterly terrifying.
The Reagan/Clinton experience argument is lacking because the real reason RR and WJC succeeded is their grasp of the issues (and their intelligence). If anyone doesn't "get it", it is obviously Palin. She reminds me of the Miss Teen SC contestant that spewed a bunch of talking points and catch phrases during the pagent interview.
Scary times for America. Scary.

Miller   September 30th, 2008 11:08 am ET

Yeah, except for the fact that Bill Clinton was a Rhodes Scholar, they are the same. I, like most Democrats, value education in our leaders…so the comparison ends at them both being governors of relatively small states

Darryl   September 30th, 2008 11:08 am ET

Gov Sarah Palin took from the Excutive of Veco… Where's her tax return..

We Need Answers…..

dracine   September 30th, 2008 11:08 am ET

Sarah Palin should not be in the same category as Regan and Clinton! McCain is going senile in his old age. I think I could have answered some of Couric's questions about the economic bailout more thoroughly, and I am definitely not a master of economics. At least I would focus my answers on the topic of the economic bailout and not healthcare, trade, jobs, etc. She was all over the map with her answer. How can the American people not see through McCain's BS?

Julia in South Carolina   September 30th, 2008 11:08 am ET

If you believe that…I've got a bridge to sell ya

Palin = Fail   September 30th, 2008 11:08 am ET

That's as laughable as it gets. Comparing Regan to Palin. Ol Ronnie is spinning in is grave…

Helen, MA   September 30th, 2008 11:08 am ET

The next Clinton or Reagen? Not a chance……….more likely the next Ferraro or never-to-be-remembered-VP-candidate-on-a-losing- Presidential ticket.

Having McCain sit next to Palin in the Katie C interview was like having a father/grandfather defending his 'bright' young daughter/granddaughter at a student-teacher conference contesting her C- test grade on an important exam.

Sarah Palin is running for VP of the United States, not VP of Student Council. Tell Daddy/Gramps to stay away….he's got enough problems with his own downward-spiraling stature in this campaign.

His presence diminishes her credibility to be a viable candidate. It looks like he doesn't have any confidence in her ability to present her arguments intelligently, nor protect herself from her own misspeaks.

CC from Chicago   September 30th, 2008 11:08 am ET

I just spit out my coffee reading this on the Ticker. Absolutely laughable. Rhode Scholar with Yale Law degree vs. Journalism degree from Hawaii Pacific U/North Idaho College/University of Idaho/Matanuska-Susitna College/back to U of I?

James from IL   September 30th, 2008 11:08 am ET

I can't believe CNN is reporting this. They completely twisted McCains words. Nowhere in that interview did John McCain state that Sarah Palin is the next Clinton or Reagan.

chris & tom bay shore ny   September 30th, 2008 11:07 am ET

this would be funny if it were not so serious a time in american history. shame on john mcsame for putting this person a heartbeat away from the most important position in the world. do you think she's ready? i don't. just listen to what comes out of her mouth. bill clinton is a rhodes scholar, shes not! compare what he says to what has come out of her mouth. OMG this just goes to mcsames judgement. what was he thinking? now i don't know if this has come out yet but on the web it says that mcsame has more cancer. are you kidding me? god bless obama/biden 08/12

Michael - Phoenix   September 30th, 2008 11:07 am ET

I think everyone is missing the point. She just isn't qualified! Yes if the McCain camp had let her do more interviews she would have appeared more polished as a speaker but not on the substance of the issues. Fareed Zakaria is the first actual news reporter to stop skirting the issue. She is probably an intelligent person but clearly not ready to be the vice president. Why is the media so afraid to say what everyone is thinking? For her to try and qualify her foreign experience more than once because she border Russia and Canada shows exactly the problem she has, no qualifications for this position.

mike from c-bus   September 30th, 2008 11:07 am ET

Gotcha? Oh you mean the game the Bush administration has been playing on our country and constitution for eight years?

DaveNC   September 30th, 2008 11:07 am ET

Why would Alexander Mooney even think to post such an absurd and ridiculous notion? It about time people understood that we are all not that stupid. Sheesh!

Judy Zukoski, Barnesville, PA   September 30th, 2008 11:07 am ET

The clock is ticking for McCain. Just a few more days til he'll have to explain/retract everything that his illustrious running mate said in the debate…..that is, unless she gets lost in the wilderness at his rustic retreat and doesn't resurface until after Thurs. p.m. (That's probably what he's hoping for…..or maybe arranging.)

Vic   September 30th, 2008 11:07 am ET

CNN: My last six blogs have been canceled by you. If you don't plan to honor my participation in your blogs, please let me know and quit wasting my time and yours.

julian   September 30th, 2008 11:07 am ET

I THOUGHT THAT'S A CUTE COMPARAISON—BILL CLINTON WITH LIPSTICK!!!LOL

tom from knoxville   September 30th, 2008 11:07 am ET

I was really undecided the last few weeks but the more McCain talks the more damage he does to himself. His sad defense of Palin resembles a man putting his finger in the holes of his boat. I wonder if he realizes he's running out of fingers.

Stump the candidate.   September 30th, 2008 11:07 am ET

Hmm. I do recall Sarah Palin invited people to play, "Stump the Candidate", regarding foreign policy issues at a town hall meeting.

NH Mom   September 30th, 2008 11:07 am ET

How dare McCain compare Palin to Pres. Clinton. That is beyond absurd and shows how out of touch McCain really is. Pres. Clinton is brillant and it is an absolute insult to him and any thinking American to compare Palin to Clinton.

Palin is no Clinton. (well maybe brother Roger Clinton)

laura   September 30th, 2008 11:07 am ET

How absurd! A morally challenged, ethically unbalanced big oil cheer leading ditz who couldn't name the leader of Ireland and whether or not he supports shin fain let alone lead us out of two expensive and desperate wars as anything but a complete failure? She can't even obey Federal Aviation law well enough to stay off (a 9 hour) air flight when she has already ruptured her amniotic fluid sac and could enter active labor with a month premature disabled infant at any moment. Nope she had to have that Alaska Permanent Fund Payment of 3 grand for him from day one. (delayed if he is born out of state).You know, the fund you pay for with your gas station price.A kick back for Alaskan's from big oil. Some good mother that she wold risk his life for 3 grand. i really don't think she can rise to the low level of ethics Clinton set. He only messed with a willing adult. She risked a premature, disabled baby for nothing more than greed. How Republican of her.

twiddly   September 30th, 2008 11:07 am ET

This bulldog with lipstick unfortunately has the brains of a canine.
Wait, that's not really fair to the dogs!

Joe Mo   September 30th, 2008 11:07 am ET

the new McCain/Palin ticket is now known as DUMB AND DUMBER TICKET.

Florida Loves Palin!   September 30th, 2008 11:07 am ET

I know the Obama Campaign has enough money and advertises for paid blogger positions on Craigslist. That coupled with CNN Obama Lovers that post or don't the comments submitted results in a crazy amount of Palin Hatin'. Add to that CNN only broadcasts folks that support the position that Palin is not qualified. How about having some semblance of balanced coverage? Walk into any major bookstore and you will find a fat display of books that thoroughly cover the topic of why Obama is not fit to govern. I read several articles this week on the same topic, but for some reason this position never makes it's way to CNN. Hmmmmm…. What is also tired is putting up primarily your female commentators to Palin Hate. How anti-feminist of you CNN. For some reason when you have four commentators discussing Palin they have to be all women? Big media has driven Obama's campaign from day one and frankly I wouldn't trust their judgment in selecting a President. So, CNN I challenge you to play the other side. Put up one author or journalist that has a book or article out this week covering the topic of why Obama is not qualified to govern. It'll give us all a well deserved break from all the Palin navel-gazing.

McCain/Palin '08

Philly Engineer   September 30th, 2008 11:07 am ET

Is Palin the next Clinton? Heyal No! she cant talk and lacks substance..Atleast Clinton was confident and articulate. Besides, I can't believe ppl put Reagan and Clinton in the same sentence. As far as I'm concerned, Reagan wasnt that good of a president.

corey gabriel   September 30th, 2008 11:07 am ET

McCain still hasn't release his medical records or any psychological evaluation. Draw your own conclusions…..what is he hiding from the American people?

C in San Diego   September 30th, 2008 11:07 am ET

That may be the stupidest thing I've ever heard.

Alexis   September 30th, 2008 11:07 am ET

HOW DARE YOU JOHN MCBUSH! DO NOT COMPARE HER TO THESE FINE PRESIDENTS! AND A QUICK REALITY CHECK MCCAIN SHE IS RUNNING FOR VP, NOT PRESIDENT!!

jane doe   September 30th, 2008 11:07 am ET

i believe McCain is in the first stages of dementia. his choice of palin, his demeanor at the debate, etc.
at least nancy regan was smart enough to be able to keep things going when ron came down with it.
well…palin would be good at changing his diapers, speaking in baby tongues to him, and praying for a turnaround.
please don't do this to our country.

Regine   September 30th, 2008 11:07 am ET

OMG SERIOUSLY??
She HEARd the question perfectly and answered it according to what she believes! Mccain trying to spin it on the media just because he realizes it completely against what he stands for is ridiculous! He has become soo shaddy. The republican party would be much better off without her..she has good experince but NO knowledge outside her state WHATSOEVER! If Mccain wins, I hope he will have atleast 50 bodyguards and a health check every day to keep him alive in order NOt to hand over the country to Palin. Maybe America does need another 4 years to realize their country is going down….

I love Mccain   September 30th, 2008 11:07 am ET

People are saying that she makes Dan Quayle look like FDR.

she is not a leader…
and will not get a chance to lead.

franco   September 30th, 2008 11:07 am ET

Left Loonies: Shameful the way you treat an former Vietnam POW. My guess that most of you were drinking your latte or avoiding the armed forces, while he was being tortured by the enemy. You have no shame. You are not americans; perhaps we should send you over the other side.

John mcCain   September 30th, 2008 11:07 am ET

sarah palin & bill clinton =========> Liars

G.W Bush & Reagan =========> national debt raised from
($700 billion to $3 trillion)

Alicia   September 30th, 2008 11:07 am ET

It's more like she's the next Miss Teen South Carolina.

"I personally believe that U.S. Americans are unable to do so because, uhmmm, some people out there in our nation don’t have maps and uh, I believe that our, I, education like such as uh, South Africa, and uh, the Iraq, everywhere like such as… "
vs.
"That's why I say I, like every American I'm speaking with, we're ill about this position that we have been put in where it is the taxpayers looking to bail out. But ultimately, what the bailout does is help those who are concerned about the health-care reform that is needed to help shore up our economy, helping the… "

They both seem to have the same nonsensical style of answering questions.

ta_sween   September 30th, 2008 11:07 am ET

That is an insult to BOTH Ronald Reagan and Bill Clinton. McCain is grasping. When will American wake up and see what is happening. WHY are the polls so close?????

Steve   September 30th, 2008 11:07 am ET

No matter how much they spin, it is clear that Palin is not ready (I won't say unqualified) to be VP. The very fact that they felt it necessary to shield her from questions until she was adequately schooled supports that argument. Now McCain is saying Clinton had no experience? Excuse me, Bill Clinton is a Rhodes Scholar. Being smart does count for something as intellect plays a big part in deciphering complex information to formulate policy. Bush isn't very smart and look where he got us. The job of President and VP isn't for everyone, and as Americans let's be smart enough to recognize that, regardless of party affiliation

Brian   September 30th, 2008 11:06 am ET

To the Obamanuts, please search for the terms "Obama" and "teleprompter" on youtube.

Will you say he is still intelligent????

Sarah Palin is by far more experienced than he is, and he is at the TOP of the ticket!

Kathy in Providence   September 30th, 2008 11:06 am ET

I'm starting to wonder if this whole thing isn't just a set-up to get Obama elected – I mean, are these two for real? Maybe more meds are in order.

josephine   September 30th, 2008 11:06 am ET

McCain is either lying through his teeth again or maybe just trying to outdo SNL in the comedy department.

Dude!   September 30th, 2008 11:06 am ET

You can NOT compare her to a great president like Reagan who jump started the economy with his policies. And you can NOT insult her by comparing her to that farce Clinton who eventually killed the economy with his tax increases.
She is unproven to say the least. Let's wait and see what she actually says.

B E in TN   September 30th, 2008 11:06 am ET

Please old organ grinder, let your monkey with lipstick off her chain!!!!

demwit   September 30th, 2008 11:06 am ET

Does Palin like young interns in cigars too!?

m&m   September 30th, 2008 11:06 am ET

lord help us if we can compare former presidents with her.my God , please let us stop dreaming and live in reality.these lady need alot of expoture. Alaska has been a bunker mentality for her.it does seem that the other world has been away from her.i can not predict a good outcome on the debate for her and please take it to the bank.

julian   September 30th, 2008 11:06 am ET

THIS IS A DISASTER , FOLKS!!!!!!!

Kate   September 30th, 2008 11:06 am ET

Oh my goodness…what an insult to Ronald Reagan and Bill Clinton!

dontomas   September 30th, 2008 11:06 am ET

Well based on these comments, I could be the next Clinton or Reagan. I would have to cram for a few weeks though, is the casa in Sedona available?

M - VA   September 30th, 2008 11:06 am ET

mcCain is trying to persaude us on his reckless choice for VP, which clearly tells that even he's not confident about palin anymore.
that's just sad!

OBama 08!

maynard hopkins wi   September 30th, 2008 11:06 am ET

it is very conforting to see, that you now are seeing the light and thinking about mccain/palin as the next leaders of our country…..

OBAMA has a very dark side that most people don't see….

contribution money coming from the following countries the money has been tracked on the internet to.

SAUDI ARABIA IRAN CHINA AND OTHER MIDEASTERN COUNTRIES.

this can be traced and has been traced by the ISP. you see there are no campaign laws relating to where you get the money for your camgaign or from what countries….

I don't want a candidate that recieves money from out enemies THIS GUY CAN NOT BE TRUSTED

Steve, Chelsea, MI   September 30th, 2008 11:06 am ET

Clinton – Rhodes Scholar, became president for having the most votes out of *3* major candidates. He got lucky in 1992, but, as it turns out, it was lucky for America.
Reagan – Governor of state that is ranked as the 10th largest economy in the world.

Palin – ex-beauty queen that has governed over one of America's least populated states for just over a year, before that, was mayor of a tiny town, and left them with a huge debt. I live in a town the size of Wasilla, and if the mayor left us in debt like that, they wouldn't be able to run for office EVER again.

Dennis   September 30th, 2008 11:06 am ET

Are you retarded?

Tiaunia, - Texas   September 30th, 2008 11:06 am ET

McDummy how dare you even compare your "princess" to Regan and Clinton!

Regardless if people underestimated them at one point, she is completely in a league of her own with her inability to think on the spot, ANSWER a question, and form a complete sentence.

Queen of Avoidance has not business in the White House… Please just go back to Alaska…you would then be putting Country First.

And shut him up!!!

Kristina, Seattle   September 30th, 2008 11:06 am ET

Why insult Bill Clinton and Ronald Reagan like that??

Vic   September 30th, 2008 11:06 am ET

Having lived through both eras, I agree with your story comparing to initial receptions of Presidents Reagan and Clinton, and am now observing the present one. A couple of weeks ago, the cry was that Biden should be dropped, and might drop himself, from running with Senator Obama. This was because of his gaffes with the 1929 TV incident and other off-the-cuff less than true remarks. So the conclusion here is that while Obama preaches "change," he's tapped one of the longest-serving politicians in Biden. Consequently, we must give McCain credit for his choice until equal remarks and considerations say otherwise. Both Obama and McCain should be given the benefit of the doubt and we all can make our choices in the voting booth.

wake up!   September 30th, 2008 11:06 am ET

haha what a joke the mccain/palin ticket are..he totally lost his mind…
please America lets prove to the world we are smarter then that! Vote Obama/Biden!!!

stop glorifying ignorance   September 30th, 2008 11:06 am ET

well then senator mc cain,
can we see gov palin's tax return first?

Bob   September 30th, 2008 11:05 am ET

Who needs to the funny page?

Mo   September 30th, 2008 11:05 am ET

McSame is really out of "touch" and just doesn't get it……this is a shame to a great country – this woman is not qualified – period. Papa John had to follow her to meet Katie Couric again and helped her answer the quetions – calling a voter question at a rally "gotcha questions" This looks really bad……..

B   September 30th, 2008 11:05 am ET

AND… YOU ALL JUST JUST PLAIN ANGRY THAT YOU DO NOT HAVE MRS. CLINTON AS THE VP OR PRES NOMINATION. WHAT IF THE REBUBLICANS CHOSE AN AFRICAN AMERICAN FOR VP…. WHAT WOULD YOU BE SAYING THEN??

Leigh   September 30th, 2008 11:05 am ET

McCain seems manic and must have been in one of those episodes when have picked Palin figuring he could cover for her inadequacies with his superman complex, To compare her to two successful Governors with accomplished oratory skills is an insult. She speaks in trailer trash lingo.

steve   September 30th, 2008 11:05 am ET

interresting-i'm not seeing any "pro-Sarah" remarks here..probably got "moderated" out…all 300+ of them or so…

Dan from Minneapolis   September 30th, 2008 11:05 am ET

Sorry, but this has to be the most idiotic false choice that I've ever seen! Clinton may have been underestimated by Republicans. Palin is underestimated by every neutral observer– left and right. Clinton didn't make a fool of himself when answering questions posed by journalists. Reagan wasn't as bright as Clinton, but he could as least B.S. his way around the questions with some level of coherency. Palin is out of her league!

Hey McCain- Thanks but no thanks   September 30th, 2008 11:05 am ET

You've lost your nomination to the office McCain— You and Palin managed to dig yourselves into a major abyss and will not be able to dig yourselves out of it!

Obama for President!

Democrat 4 Life   September 30th, 2008 11:05 am ET

Sarah Baracuda is Pale-in substance. She will lose her governor's job when she runs again. All thanks to McSame.

Steve   September 30th, 2008 11:05 am ET

I realize that letting Palin go this late in the game could be seen as an act of political suicide on McCain's part, but he needs to put his money where his mouth is and place "Country First." We're in scary and troubling times, and he's GOT to see that Palin is seriously underqualified. I mean–let's face reality here. It's not wisdom or good judgment if you continue to drive into the brick wall of limitations without "blinking." That requires brashness and decisiveness, but you'd have to be seriously short on common sense to do so. For the good of the country, let her go and take on a Romney or a Bloomberg. I say this as somone leaning toward Obama, but ultimately desiring a president and vice president (whether Repub or Dem) that I can trust to effectively lead the nation. Stop the nonsense!!

Chris, IL   September 30th, 2008 11:05 am ET

Why does everyone have a problem with earning something and paying for their mistakes? If you got in over your head, it's your own darn fault, and any problems that arise are YOURS to deal with, not mine. The top 50% of earners pay 97% of taxes. The top 25% pay 86% of taxes. The top 1% pay 39% of taxes. The funny thing about that? Most of the programs that our taxes pay for aren't even used by the people who pay most of the taxes. So why shouldn't they get more tax breaks? They're footing the bill for every person standing in a line with their hands out, I think they deserve a break.

GODDY   September 30th, 2008 11:05 am ET

OBAMA DESERVES THE TAG AS THE NEXT REAGAN OR CLINTON AND NOT SARAH PALIN. WHAT SUBSTANCE DOES "MCSAME" SEE IN HER , ABSOLUTELY NOTHING. IS MCCAIN TRYING TO FOOL AMERICANS? WE HAVE BEEN FOOLED FOR 8 YEARS. WE CAN'T TAKE ANYMORE YEARS OF THE SAME. DOES MCSAME NOT GET IT. ALL AMERICANS SHOULD JOIN ME TO TELL MCCAIN, ENOUGH!!!!!!!!!

ACC   September 30th, 2008 11:05 am ET

Reality check…check? check? McCain has fallen into the trap of lying so much that he actually believes that garbage he is spinning.

Don   September 30th, 2008 11:05 am ET

You have got to be kidding. Why do you guys even re