October 2, 2008
Posted: October 2nd, 2008 07:39 PM ET
Palin Bingo is making its debut.
Palin Bingo is making its debut.

(CNN) - Voters usually tune in to the presidential debates to hear something new from the candidates. But tonight, some viewers of the VP face-off between Joe Biden and Sarah Palin are desperately hoping to hear more of the same – word for campaign buzzword - especially from the Alaska governor.

Drinking games linked to debate-night references have become as much a presidential campaign season tradition as the debates themselves. But this year, the GOP vice presidential nominee seems to have fueled a spike in popularity for a slightly more wholesome versions of that game: Palin Bingo.

The squares in these games are filled with ubiquitous phrases that make regular appearances in Palin’s stump speech, including “Hockey Mom,” “Maverick” and “Moose.” One version challenges players to earn extra points by scoring a “Media Black-out” – filling in all the spaces on their card.

Of course, both candidates have fallen back on familiar language since being named to their parties’ presidential tickets: Sarah Palin may have inspired the lion’s share of debate bingo games floating around the Web this week, but bingo is bi-partisan, and Joe Biden hasn’t escaped his own tribute - versions that feature words associated with the Delaware senator (Sample option: his commuting mainstay, “Amtrak”) have also been downloaded by eager debate-watchers.

For those who don’t mind an election-season hangover, there are always the more typical versions of the game: every time you hear “Scranton,” take a swig.

Filed under: Joe Biden • Sarah Palin • Vice presidential debate


marilou   October 2nd, 2008 8:35 pm ET

If Nancy Pelosi can ask for 197 million to be included in the bail out package. Gov. Palin will get my vote no matter what happens in the debates tonight. She is the only person in this race with integrity.

Mike   October 2nd, 2008 8:33 pm ET

Has team McCain declared Sarah the winner yet?

Lew   October 2nd, 2008 8:32 pm ET

It has been said, some fear change and thus speek out against it. Other’s accept change and look for new opportunities. Liberal’s espouses CHANGE, but when it comes to real change or something different, such as Palin! Liberal’s come apart at the seams?? Just look at Liberal Blog’s. Are Liberal's Proud of what you say to the world???

Eva, Paramount, CA   October 2nd, 2008 8:32 pm ET

I don't want a "Hockey Mom!" I want a vice president, and someone who doesn't have to fly her family and her nanny everywhere she goes!

maurice j. mcgrath   October 2nd, 2008 8:31 pm ET

a question that comes to mind is , how malleable sarah must be for dick cheney and his big oil big buiseness buddies. that she was picked. also where is cheney and what new secret deals he is making that we will pay for later

L. Faith   October 2nd, 2008 8:28 pm ET

I think Joe Biden should bring himself to the debate tonight. I don't think he should put on "Kid Gloves" debating Mrs. Palin. This woman is fighting him for the position of Vice President. We as voters need to know who can do the job the best! If she can't take the heat, we need to know it NOW!!! before it's to late.

Myles, New Orleans   October 2nd, 2008 8:26 pm ET

Everyone wants to take it easy on Sarah. You have the nerve to compare her to Obama. If her rear end was black you wouldn't be protecting Miss Souther Bell from Alaska. Yeah we see your Patriotism when it comes to certain individuals. It is an outrage on how we or handling this stupid woman.

PJ from TX   October 2nd, 2008 8:23 pm ET

Get yo popcorn ready, this should be a doosie.

Julia   October 2nd, 2008 8:22 pm ET

Palin is such a dunce. Seriously this is a college dropout PTA mom on a power trip. Shes the kind of woman that makes people sick.

William, Atl, GA   October 2nd, 2008 8:21 pm ET

We need to stop playing games and calling names.

Let's get some real answers and plans for improving the horrible state of affairs Americans will be suffering through during the next presidential term.

Denise Bell   October 2nd, 2008 8:21 pm ET

I have my bingo cards,election snacks,and my kool-aid. So i suggest Palin have her moose foot for good luck. Even though it has been told that she have a ear device. There only strategy that have is deception. High expectations is what I am expecting from Palin. So sit back and watch the show!

linda from South Dakota   October 2nd, 2008 8:21 pm ET

its really sad when americans can pun the canidiates which i have done also,,,,,, but in all seriousness,,,, we want someone whos totally qualified,, honest,,,,calm,, but gets the job done, doesnt put up with the governments crap,,,, someone whose steadfast on his opinions,,,,, works FOR THE PEOPLE,, not against them,, we all have out picks as i do,,, but lets listen,, and listen well,, because the state of our future and childrens future is ahead here,,,, what needs to be done is people tellin people tha facts,, not fabicated ones but real facts,, think wisely ,,think smart and long term,,,,

David   October 2nd, 2008 8:20 pm ET

There are few peaple in Washington who can debate like Sen. Biden
This makes McCains pick of Palin and the sexism clames of any disagreement of her even more upsetting because it's impossible for Biden to have a productive debate. Ranking after the fact she is 2nd in line and could have to be president in an emergency.

Ian   October 2nd, 2008 8:19 pm ET

We're getting trounced by both parties and all we do is laugh it up. So long America, it was nice knowing you.

RapidRay   October 2nd, 2008 8:18 pm ET

If anyone's doing a party where you drink when a key word is spoken, anyone who gets stuck with "fundamental" is risking alcohol poisoning.

If we all has a dollar for every time McCain has said it in the last two weeks, we wouldn't have to bail out the economy...we'd all be millionaires.

Dave Smith   October 2nd, 2008 8:18 pm ET

It is 3:00am and the phone rings. Sarah Palin answers the call.

Treasury Sec.: The Asian market tanked again and we are looking at a collapse on wall street in the morning.

Sarah Palin: Uh...I'll get back to ya!

No my dear friends put your biases aside, your differences aside, this election will be most critical for all of us and the future of our children. This is about all of us and not about them. Think, do the right thing.

Obama/Biden 2008

Beau   October 2nd, 2008 8:17 pm ET

I'm a demecrat and I can't support either of the two.

RapidRay   October 2nd, 2008 8:14 pm ET

Hey mark B...

"But I will admit, I am supporting McCain and Palin, but if he votes in favor of this bailout package now with all the pork added to it, I will write in Ron Paul before I give my vote to Obama."

He voted for it last night.
Ron Paul thanks you for your informed vote.

Empire, CO   October 2nd, 2008 8:14 pm ET

Some people are betting on the 20 to 1 horse Palin, because they figure the payoff is better than going with a sure thing like Joe. You pick a losing horse, be prepared to lose. Biden will WIN!

No Hillary = No Obama   October 2nd, 2008 8:14 pm ET

Biden has been jabbering his jaws alot longer than Palin has – it's 2nd nature to him to hear the sound of his own voice over and over and over. That's why Palin has to puncture his stream of verbiage and get to the beef – something Obama is devoid of.

Charlie   October 2nd, 2008 8:14 pm ET

All you Democrats that are going to be hoping for change...here's a story for you. A young vibrant orator was going to make some "real" change for the people of Cuba. His wonderful speech giving skills, delighted the media. After he was elected it didn't take Cuba to long to become a third world country. The orator who affirmed change for the country's name? Fidel Castrol...Be careful of "change" that isn't plotted out exactly, before you vote for it!

oscar   October 2nd, 2008 8:12 pm ET

palin's peformance in this debate will makke little or no difference. Obama is better than mccain.

Ronald Steffani   October 2nd, 2008 8:11 pm ET

Anyone can make a gaff when under pressure. The problem with Sarah Palin is that when she answers a question she tends to string together a set of words straight from the conservative book, but they are not necessarily related to each other nor are they related to the question asked. Charles Gibson said All I hear is a blizzard of words.

Carrie Pa   October 2nd, 2008 8:11 pm ET

The bar is so low that all Palin has to do is show up and complete a full sentence.

John.C   October 2nd, 2008 8:09 pm ET

Good luck in the debate Sen. Biden you can handle anything thrown your way!

OBAMA-BIDEN '08

Mark B   October 2nd, 2008 8:08 pm ET

I am looking forward to Sarah kicking Joes behind tonight.

But I will admit, I am supporting McCain and Palin, but if he votes in favor of this bailout package now with all the pork added to it, I will write in Ron Paul before I give my vote to Obama.

GO SARAH,,,,,

Peter (CA)   October 2nd, 2008 8:07 pm ET

Sorry guys, the socialism stuff is old and tired like McCain and just not true.

I know what I will get with Obama–and this is what this country needs. I don't know where McCain will flip or flop next. If Palin becomes President, we will all be sunk. She is a deer in the headlights. It's a shame the bar is set so low on someone running to be VP.

Frank S   October 2nd, 2008 8:06 pm ET

She cant lose. After all when the pilot asked her at 3AM this morning where he was taking her she said. well In know its close to the middle of the country, and they have the original McD arches there it hink, only big and in silver. LOL

From Coast to Coast   October 2nd, 2008 8:06 pm ET

I hope the electorial map is bonnie blue on November 4th. I want to spread the word from coast to coast that America is back in business.

Obama/Biden 08

Moller   October 2nd, 2008 8:06 pm ET

Wayne – Get a brain.

Arden   October 2nd, 2008 8:06 pm ET

It doesn't matter how she does or for that matter how Joe does, the Republican's, GOP, (basically the McCain people) will yell and scream that she did great. What makes me sick is the fact that Gov. Palin is in fact being baby'd and cottled. She is running for one of the most important jobs in our nation and I am sick of the sight of her already as much as I am of John McCain. If you have to hold your breath waiting for her to screw up then she shouldn't be running. Hillery went through hell and she is still one of the most respected women in politics. Special treatment was non-existant..

Good-bye America, Hello China   October 2nd, 2008 8:05 pm ET

While John was busy kissing and hugging George W. Bush, our economy was going down the toilet. If Americans vote for these morons again, say hello to China, because they will be running the country.

Obama/Biden 08

Joe Wright   October 2nd, 2008 8:05 pm ET

For once let's all do what is right for this country. We need to improve our education standards, once again start to lead the world in technology, be a country that the world can look up to. Stop the wars, Stop the lies, no more oil wars but new alternative energy programs, generate new jobs and be a great country that we are meant to be. Unfortunately McCain and Palin don't have the qualifications to do this. I want America to shine once again.

Marie Canada   October 2nd, 2008 8:05 pm ET

What a disgrace for women everywhere. Sara is going to change Washington but when she became mayor of her town it didn't have any debt and when she left they had 22 million in debt.

j. williams   October 2nd, 2008 8:04 pm ET

NO Community organizers...NO OBAMA-...end Chicago politics NOW ..

FL Voter   October 2nd, 2008 8:04 pm ET

Scott L,

I know exactly why I am voting for with Obama. His tax policies will actually help my family

I'm definitely thinking of my kids' future.

Obama/Biden '08
God bless America!

Matthew, New Orleans   October 2nd, 2008 8:03 pm ET

its makes me sick how we make excuses for those that or encapable of performing or handling the job at task. Hilary Clinton stood on stage being the only woman against a host of men and she handle her business. Sarah Palin gets on stage presenting herself for the second highest position in the US and we need to coddle her. Hell NO!! People are losing there homes, there savings, there retirement, and you want to play nice with that ignorant woman who thinks she is running for Miss America. If her rear end cannot handle the heat let her get the hell out of that kitchen.

Hillary Independent finally for Obama   October 2nd, 2008 8:03 pm ET

Sarah Palin was taken to Sedona, Arizona to help her "relax."

If Sarah Palin needs to do this as vice president, she is the WRONG PERSON for the job!

Why is she being coddled????????????????????

Wayne   October 2nd, 2008 7:59 pm ET

LB you are an idiot.

Who in their right mind would vote for these 2 liars. only brainwasched repubs and racists.

Obama / Biden 08

laura   October 2nd, 2008 7:59 pm ET

Is it just me or is her voice like nails on a chalkboard. Can't watch the debate, her voice is soooo annoying.

allie   October 2nd, 2008 7:59 pm ET

How can america trust the judgment of the man (mc cain) who has exercised such poor judgment in selecting a vp for his ticket. i guess he will do anything to get the votes of women. well, it's NOT going to work.

Cynthia   October 2nd, 2008 7:59 pm ET

It's up to the American voter to decide if they want 4 more years of the same OR WORSE.

Lose Mommy Lose   October 2nd, 2008 7:58 pm ET

Baby Trig hopes she loses so he can get his mommy back.

IC2Trees   October 2nd, 2008 7:58 pm ET

Scott L ... I love you man! You keep hanging in there no matter how bleak the picture looks for mccain & palin.

Helen,Ft Lauderdale   October 2nd, 2008 7:58 pm ET

Heather, I agree with you. Her voice sounds like a car screeching. How awful!!!

Dottie, KS   October 2nd, 2008 7:58 pm ET

Get ready for your SNL material. I hope she talks in COMPLETE sentences because I already have whiplash from Katie's interviews.

Obama/Biden 08

Wayne, FL   October 2nd, 2008 7:56 pm ET

I really don't care who wins, my vote will still go to Barack.

Obama/Biden 08

Emerson   October 2nd, 2008 7:56 pm ET

Best team for our country...that is a joke. Just like the GOP leadership the last eight years in the white house. If the country truly wants a change, then Obama/Biden will definetly win.

pam Eugene OR   October 2nd, 2008 7:56 pm ET

The Republicans are sounding pretty desperate. I haven't heard so much name calling since the primaries. Pretty scared, aren't you!
Obama/Biden 08-12

Diane, MI   October 2nd, 2008 7:56 pm ET

This is not a game. America needs to win.

Obama/Biden 08

PJ from TX   October 2nd, 2008 7:55 pm ET

Point spread – Biden 7.5.

MBFLA   October 2nd, 2008 7:55 pm ET

Who in the world would vote for another 4 years of this mess? More war, more deregulation, more tax breaks for the very wealthy and corporations, more foreclosures..... you who vote for McBush and Palin vote for your country's bankruptcy. Thanks a lot!

Can't we vote for the smart guy for a real change?

Leslie, MN   October 2nd, 2008 7:55 pm ET

Good luck Senator Biden. Just keep your head high, and the debate will be great.

Obama/Biden 08

Emily   October 2nd, 2008 7:55 pm ET

If Palin does well, McCain will look stupid, because she is so in touch with ordinary Americans and McCain is so out of touch. Then, he should better step down.

If Palin does not do well, McCain will look stupid, because he made a wrong choice. Then, he should better step down.

There's no win – win for McCain in this debate.

chris24   October 2nd, 2008 7:54 pm ET

Anyone actually interested in a little background on McCain/Pailin should do a google search on Randy Scheunemann and read the Wikepedia information on this man.

He was THE lobbyist for the PR campaign to escalate public opinion for the buildup for the Iraq war. He and Mr. Chalabi worked together on this effort (and you know what a peach he was).

I'm not sure how Mr. McCain can say he is about change in any way when his foreign policy advisors are the same ones brain-dead George used.

Do yourself a favor and check this man out.

Judy Mia Fl   October 2nd, 2008 7:54 pm ET

If I was John McCain, the way the right loves Palin, I'd be afraid after the election, if he wins they'd figure out a way to get rid of him.

Only an American that voted Bush in not once but twice could possibly take this woman seriously.

Obama/Biden

WOW - Cedar Hill, TX   October 2nd, 2008 7:54 pm ET

Molly you are blind.......you are so behind the times if you think M/P are the best team.....

You have got to be on something

Fleas   October 2nd, 2008 7:53 pm ET

I wonder if Palin knows who was President during the Depression?

Tracey, MA   October 2nd, 2008 7:53 pm ET

Bet on America = Biden

RUN4UR$   October 2nd, 2008 7:53 pm ET

Katie Couric will be there... enough said.

Heather in SoCal   October 2nd, 2008 7:51 pm ET

How can we play bingo with her phrases if we can't stand the sound of her voice???

Billy   October 2nd, 2008 7:49 pm ET

Wow. Nothing like being the butt of every joke out there.

Barney   October 2nd, 2008 7:49 pm ET

Obama/Biden '08

No more crap-shoots with our country, our people.

Don't censor this one out. I'm getting really tired of being censored.

Carrie Pa   October 2nd, 2008 7:48 pm ET

I am hoping for a James Stockdale VP debate performance (1992) by Sarah Palin.

mitch   October 2nd, 2008 7:48 pm ET

i cant believe there's even a debate about the debate. we are in two wars,people, and our economy is tanking. we cant afford four more years of mcbush/cheylin!

tedious898   October 2nd, 2008 7:46 pm ET

Palin would be challenged to debate my 10 yr old. He can actually explain our (3) equal branches of government. Aside from having a degree in Journalism; he's just as qualified as Palin

Mike   October 2nd, 2008 7:45 pm ET

Doh He did it again. Yesterday McBush said that he had total confidence in Gwen Ifils as debate moderator. he said he trusted her to be fair and impartial. then today, flip flop number one million and one. McBush says Ifils should not be moderator and that she ( a black woman) may be prejudiced in favor of Obama. What an angry confused little weasel.

nelson mcnarland   October 2nd, 2008 7:45 pm ET

It's to bad the Gong show is not showing now.You could have mccain debateing Palin It would be great

victor,nj   October 2nd, 2008 7:44 pm ET

Molly October 2nd, 2008 7:41 pm ET

Good Luck GOV Palin!
MILLIONS of Americans are with you!

McCain/Palin – BEST Team for our country

I GUESS YOU THOUGHT BUSH WAS BEST FOR OUR COUNTRY IN 2000.

Mitzie   October 2nd, 2008 7:44 pm ET

I hope the term "caribou barbie" comes in to play.

LB-NJ   October 2nd, 2008 7:43 pm ET

Gov Palin will do great. Mccain will win. The worse thing that would happened to America is if Leftist Obama gets elected. Get ready for the "new change" to Socialism/Communism. You'll be working hard and get the same (nothing) as your neighbor who wakes up at 5pm. Hope you like to share!!!!

Independent, white female !   October 2nd, 2008 7:43 pm ET

I think Palin would make an awesome Bingo game, but that's about all.

Jack   October 2nd, 2008 7:43 pm ET

Biden – Qualified to lead
McCain – Very Qualified to Lead
Palin – not sure yet
Obama – Really NOT Qualified to lead our country

Looks like the experience is on the bottom for the DEMS.

Lydia   October 2nd, 2008 7:43 pm ET

Compulsive gambling is a treatable illness. John McCain should call the National Council on Problem Gambling at 1-800-522-4700.

Thomas   October 2nd, 2008 7:43 pm ET

What's the point spread ?

j. williams   October 2nd, 2008 7:42 pm ET

Cafferty report...Biden wins debate and gergen excepts osamas' job for press secretary.

Ron Bailey   October 2nd, 2008 7:42 pm ET

No Matter how she does,those right wingers wii say she won. These are the same people who believe that left is right, and up is down if they say so.

Scott L   October 2nd, 2008 7:42 pm ET

McCain going to crush Obama in November. Do you really know who you are voting for with Obama? I mean do you truly understand his tax policies?

Think about your children...what will they inherit if the government takes it all under Obama tax plans?

Molly   October 2nd, 2008 7:41 pm ET

Good Luck GOV Palin!
MILLIONS of Americans are with you!

McCain/Palin – BEST Team for our country

Robert Wooller Bradford England   October 2nd, 2008 7:40 pm ET

Must be very risky bingo to bet on her winning the debate let alone McCain winning the election in November.

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