October 16, 2008
Posted: 01:07 PM ET

From
 Obama is speaking about last night's debate out on the campaign trail today.
Obama is speaking about last night's debate out on the campaign trail today.

LONDONDERRY, New Hampshire (CNN) – At a Pennsylvania campaign event Thursday, John McCain repeated his advisors’ favorite line from Wednesday night’s debate: that Barack Obama wasn’t running against George Bush. And on the trail in New Hampshire, Barack Obama repeated his comeback.

“He said, ‘I don’t know why you’re running against George Bush,’” Obama told a rain-soaked crowd south of Manchester. “I said ‘I’m not running against George Bush, I’m running against all those policies of George Bush that you support, Sen. McCain.’

“In three debates and over twenty months, John McCain hasn’t explained a single thing that he would do differently from George Bush when it comes to the most important economic issues we face today. Not one,” he said to loud cheers outside of Mack’s Apple Farm, a location he campaigned at a year ago.

Obama said last night’s debated highlighted McCain’s “attack strategy,” and said the remaining 19 days of the general election campaign should focus on the “genuine differences” between the two candidates.

The Democratic nominee defended his tax plan, which he has said would cut taxes for 95 percent of workers and said his opponent’s plan would give generous tax breaks to the wealthy and leave out millions of Americans.

“By the way, in the debate last night he didn’t deny those facts he just kept on saying ‘well I don’t want to tax anybody, I don’t want to tax anybody, I’m going do this I can do it, I know how,’” said the Democratic nominee.

“Well, the fact of the matter is that he’s blowing a hole through the budget on tax breaks that are the exact same kinds of tax cuts that George Bush offered, same argument, same philosophy,” he said. “Then he’s trying to suggest that that a plumber is the guy he’s fighting for — how many plumbers do you know making a quarter of a million dollars a year?” Obama said, referencing the Ohio plumber he spoke with on the trail, who was made famous in last night’s debate.

Running mate Joe Biden expressed similar skepticism over sudden celebrity plumber Joe Wurzelbach, who had been repeatedly cited by McCain. “I don't have any Joe the plumbers in my neighborhood that make $250,000 a year,” he told NBC’s Today Show Thursday morning.

As he did at a Manhattan fundraiser earlier in the day, Obama implored the audience not to grow complacent in the face of a favorable outlook for his campaign.

“I learned right here, with the help of my great friend and supporter Hillary Clinton, that you can’t let up or pay too much attention to the polls. We’ve got to keep making our case for change; we’ve got to keep fighting for every single vote; we’ve got to keep running through that finish line,” he said.

Despite trying to keep the confidence level in check, the Obama campaign is taking advantage of recent state polls in their favor. Starting Friday, the candidate will travel to a slew of competitive “red states,” including Virginia, Missouri, North Carolina and Florida.

Filed under: Barack Obama • Joe the plumber • John McCain


Syn in the City   October 16th, 2008 4:45 pm ET

Joe "The Plumber" Wurzelbacher is a close relative of Robert Wurzelbacher….Who is Robert Wurzelbacher??? Only the son-in-law of Charles Keating of the Keating Five Scandal…..Nice try McCain….Nice try…I'm so glad that Americans are really involved in politics this go round so that most of us are smart enough to really look up the facts!

freeman   October 16th, 2008 4:44 pm ET

Why has no one question Palin for supportting her husband in Alaska for down talking the United State government?

Jacqueline   October 16th, 2008 4:43 pm ET

As a small business owner, I smell something stinky about Joe the Plumber's statements. It is wonderful to be a dreamer, but making a $250K profit a year in plumbing with only two men in the business is more than far fetched. Under Obama he will be getting the tax breaks he needs to build a business up from the ground and will not be getting taxed if he can possibly offer health insurance. Joe, I would think a little longer and in more detail about your plans and who you should vote for and good luck to you.

Obama/Biden All the Way.

ek   October 16th, 2008 4:43 pm ET

So Joe the Plumber does not want to earn $250,000/year because he would have to pay 3% more in taxes (39% versus 36%) on the amount over $250,000? THAT makes a whole lot of sense . . . NOT!

jamil   October 16th, 2008 4:42 pm ET

Hay I make $250000. and guess what I am not worried!! he would only increase my taske rate about 5%. I tax rate would jump to 25%….

Paul Thompson   October 16th, 2008 4:42 pm ET

Let me see….

1) Energy policy
2) Stop the bleeding from Fannie and Freddie
3) Cut spending….defense included
4) Rein in lobbyist

Wow…I'd imagine there's a dozen more but I'm not running for President!

Phil in KC   October 16th, 2008 4:41 pm ET

Here's a news flash (literally). Joe the Plumber isn't registered or licensed as a plumber. There's no indication he's even trained as a plumber. He has lived in Alaska and Arizona and seems to have a crush on Sarah Palin, however. Further, the news report I read indicated that he owes back taxes for personal property taxes – which is probably why he has a bone to pick on the tax issue. I'm guessing this guy is really regretting his 15 minutes of fame right now.

Fred May Sr. WA ST   October 16th, 2008 4:41 pm ET

Check out eReposte economy democrats v. republicans or forbes.com presidents and prosperity.

These 2 articals explain how much better or worse off with both partys.
Interesting reading

Joan , Ontario   October 16th, 2008 4:41 pm ET

There seems to be a lot of conflicting information about Joe the Plumber. Everyone should find out the truth before they generalize about him and he is used inappropriately by a campaign. Something just doesn't seem to ring true. Maybe he could go on Larry King and answer real questions and this could all be sorted out.

HouseDiva   October 16th, 2008 4:41 pm ET

i could care less for someone making over $250,000 who doesn't want to pay taxes.

i make waaaaaay less than that, and i don't complain about paying taxes.

"joe the plumber" wants to be joe the tax dodger.

America think for you   October 16th, 2008 4:41 pm ET

You have your mind made up so why wait go out and vote now to avoid waiting in long line in November the 4th.

TJ   October 16th, 2008 4:40 pm ET

Doctors and Lawyers are the only people I know that make $250,000 or more a year. I guess if you own a plumming company with many franchises you could earn that amount, but to insist that Obama's tax cuts are going to hurt the average Joe "Six Pack" Plummer's wallet is rediculous and seriously out of touch.

Bulldog   October 16th, 2008 4:40 pm ET

Joe the plumber gained his 5 minutes of fame. Enough of this guy. He will be lucky if he ever makes $250,000. So I don't know what he's worried about. He's a plumber, plumbers don't make that much money. He can dream but then he must come down to reality.

sabuc for Obama and voting early!   October 16th, 2008 4:40 pm ET

Alright people. Time for the real test! Vote early or show up early to vote on Nov 4. Nobody is ahead or behind until the last ballot is counted on Nov 4th!! Make sure all your friends and family members get out and vote!!

tom   October 16th, 2008 4:40 pm ET

joe the plumber could make up to 2 million a year and still after deductions get in under that 250,000 mark—trust me i know i am a small business man and last year my business did 1.8 million in sales and after wages and all expenses are deducted and i deduct capital investments in equipment my total taxable income is under 200,000 dollars….so this small business man will vote for obama.

Mike for Des Moines   October 16th, 2008 4:37 pm ET

McCain is so comical; he believes that we Americans are all idiots. I am wondering this "Joe the Plumber" is a McCain invention sent to Obama rally to ask this question so McCain can use him at the debate.

98% of the small businesses make less than 250 thousand a year. Joe the plumber is part of a small 2% who need to pay some extra taxes instead of buying breast implants for his wife

Enough said

E B   October 16th, 2008 4:37 pm ET

Now I am wondering why I spent all those years studying medicine. I should have dropped outta high school, and went directly to an apprenticeship in plumbing.

Cheryl, MN   October 16th, 2008 4:36 pm ET

I love America, and I would not trust my country with John McCain.

Go Barack, win this election for those of us who haven't given up on you or America.

Obama/Biden 08

Rod   October 16th, 2008 4:35 pm ET

I have been hearing allot about Joe The Plummer..
Well, I am Rod The factory worker. I have company
Paid Health Insurance. As I understand it , Mr. McCain
Is going to tax my health care and distribute it to other
people. As A tax cut, Isn't that what Mr. McCain Is whining about with Joe?
taxing Joe and distributing the wealth to other people?

Proud to be American   October 16th, 2008 4:35 pm ET

Joe Plumber is stage man who has affliations with the Keating 5 group – get out of CNN and look at other papers like Hoffington Post…

Pat, Pa.   October 16th, 2008 4:35 pm ET

I'm already very sick of Joe the Plumber. I think his 15 mins. of fame are over. What a pathetic man McCain is to think that this would win him votes. If it does, then I cannot feel sorry for these people if he gets in and their balloon bursts.

BM   October 16th, 2008 4:35 pm ET

Maybe Joe the Plimber should have stayed out of the spotlight. Shame on you McSame for bringing attention to this man. You know the media would investigate him. That just goes to show your poor judgement again. He should have been vetted.

K.D.   October 16th, 2008 4:34 pm ET

Whether you like it or not , it is the people with money who do create and supply the jobs.
They are also the ones who have the means to move on and take their business somewhere else.
In these debates Obama has had a lot of memorized talking points but anytime one tries to pin him down to specifics , he waffles and mumbles and once again resorts to rhetoric.
I see an immature and inexperienced man that has been propped up by the DNC and a lot of money , which might be partly illegal donations , as we are finding out now.
Obama will be a disaster in the making , should he make it to the White House.

pdixon   October 16th, 2008 4:32 pm ET

I am very suspicious of Joe the Plumber??? Something doesn't seem right about that last night. It seemed staged and was used way too much.

Phystee   October 16th, 2008 4:32 pm ET

Joe the Plumber do not have a license. A bootleg plumber! Getting so much attention. Shame.

Linda from Prescott AZ   October 16th, 2008 4:31 pm ET

to Laverne: I agree with you 100%.
Go Obama Go

BM   October 16th, 2008 4:30 pm ET

Joe the plumber doesnt evn have a license.owes baack taxes and a relative of Charles Keating. It appears that Joe wasn't vetted either.

BM   October 16th, 2008 4:30 pm ET

Joe the plumber doesnt evn have a license.owes baack taxes and a relative of Charles Keating. It appears that Joe wasn't vetted either.

Number cruncher.   October 16th, 2008 4:28 pm ET

……….and further more,…..I think Joe the Plumber will get more than $150 worth of free advertising from being the most quoted topic of the presidential debate. Who could ask for better advertising/exposure??? He really has no point and should stop whinning( not that he really is , he's a fake anyway),

No way no how no McLies   October 16th, 2008 4:27 pm ET

1- Joe "the plumber" lives and works in Ohio, but somehow, he was able to vote in the PA primaries?? Was that not fraudulent? Is nobody paying attention to this?

2- Joe "the plumber" has a two liens against him- One from the state of Ohio for- get this- owed taxes… $1200 to be exact.

3- Joe "the plumber" would actually benefit from Obama's tax policies

Go figure

Jane the Small Business Owner   October 16th, 2008 4:27 pm ET

I'm skeptical that Joe the Plumber is going to make $250,000 a year after expenses are paid in his business, especially if it only has two employees. There are so many tax exemptions for small businesses — plus, he can incorporate and write off a bunch of things as business-related expenses that are tax-exempt. I'm a small business owner that makes less than $250,000 a year and I could really use that Obama tax cut. Joe could too, but he probably doesn't realize it…

Chris, Middletown, CT   October 16th, 2008 4:27 pm ET

I was an Obama supporter – moreso for our global presense – the more I listen and hear the rhetoric of "our economy is the way it is because of 8 years of failed Bush economic policy" – correct me if I'm wrong- this was caused by the subprime lending issue – which was started by Carter….deregulated by Clinton in 1995….and changes blocked to it by Democrats in 2006….granted – greedy businesses were to blame too….but the Democrats need to understand their give aways have serious repercussions….I am voting for McCain – he won't win – but at least I can say I voted against socialism from the start

Ashley   October 16th, 2008 4:27 pm ET

I am actually more disappointed with Obama and Biden's comments on Joe the Plumber. Looks like not just Joe the Plumber but they don't want anybody to earn more than $250,000.

Ace   October 16th, 2008 4:27 pm ET

Joe the Plumber is a McCain supporter who their campaign had to attend Obama's rally to ask that question. I know this because I know Joe and he told me that Tucker Bounds approached him with the idea! I thought he was kidding! I see he was serious and a fake!

CR   October 16th, 2008 4:26 pm ET

CNN needs to stop saying this Registered Republican who has lied about his name, tax record, income, plans for starting a business etc… is representative. I know you all need a horserace but the pandering is beyond the pale.

Christie   October 16th, 2008 4:26 pm ET

Joe the plumber and McCain need to listen carefully to Obama's response to Joe's question. Obama was saying that his plumbing business is nothing without customers… when the average person is struggling and can't afford to hire you then it's going to drastically hurt your business. The tax plan will give tax cuts to the average person who then can afford to hire Joe the plumber who in turn may end up making $350,000 in a year. If I owned that business, I wouldn't mind paying a slightly higher tax so more people could afford to hire me.

Canadian POV   October 16th, 2008 4:26 pm ET

Joe the Plumber; Joe Six Pack; Joe Lieberman — only one Joe worth talking about and its Joe Biden because he represents Joe Average

Glennis, PA   October 16th, 2008 4:25 pm ET

Obama can spin it anyway he wants to but his plan is still all smoke and mirrors. He hasn't a clue. Nor does his friend Biden. I take it from his comments that Biden doesn't get out of his charmed circle much. This smug and dismissive pair would be laughable if we were not in danger of their reckless and ill conceived notions being foisted upon us. They won't get all the Pennsylvania votes!

Natalie   October 16th, 2008 4:25 pm ET

John McCain and Sarah Palin keep telling the same lies about Barack. They need to focus on their plans, oops they don't have one.

Rita Montgomery, AL   October 16th, 2008 4:25 pm ET

The whole story about Joe the Plumber is full of it. This guy was a stone cold Republican who wanted to play Devil's Advocate by throwing out a hypothetical situation at Obama while Obama was talking to supporters and real undecided voters. Please look at all his interviews, he is not undecided. The situation he posed was a "what if", it was not realistic. He does not own a plumbing business yet, and is not even a licensed plumber. He keeps ranting and raving about socialism and it must be noted that he doesn't even want to pay social security taxes. And on top of that he owes back taxes! He doesn't even want to pay his fair share let alone pay a little bit more. There is nothing wrong with INVESTING your share into America and its future. All this talk about not raising taxes on anyone is ludicrous. Anyone who agrees with this philosophy doesn't really want to balance the budget.

JACKIE   October 16th, 2008 4:25 pm ET

SAY IT AIN'T SO JOE (JOE THE PLUMBER) WERE YOU REALLY A MCCAIN PLANT??? YOU RECEIVED WAY TOO MUCH ATTENTION FROM SENATOR MCCAIN FROM THE GIT-GO..

jess   October 16th, 2008 4:24 pm ET

All Obama supporters, we just have to urge all family members, friends, strangers on the street to go out and vote. I have brought six people so far to register…that's not many, but it's a start.

And one more thing…let us not forget to pray, because God knows the United States cannot survive a McCain presidency.

Vote 4 Change   October 16th, 2008 4:24 pm ET

Anonymous….

Give Hope a chance ~ for God forbid that you be on "the wrong side of history"…for you just might live long enough to regret it.

Fired Up ~ Ready to Go!

ADIOS   October 16th, 2008 4:23 pm ET

YOU,,,,,,,,,,,,ARE,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,AGAINST,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,SUCCESS,,,,,,,,,,,,STORIES,,,

YOU,,,,,,,,,,,,,ARE,,,,,,,,FOR,,,,,,,,,,,,,,WEALTH,,,,,,,,,,,REDISTRIBUTION,,,,,,,,,,,,,

SAY,,,,,,,,,,,,IT,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,BE,,,,,,,,,,,,,,A,,,,,,,,,,,,,,MAN

wake up out there   October 16th, 2008 4:23 pm ET

Before everyone gets stirred up about the 250,000 cap, I would like to know. Is this gross or net. $250,000 before deductions is not a whole lot of money for a sm business, but if he is making 250,000 after deductions, that is a lot of money. So…250,000 before or after, makes a big difference.

Liberal in LA   October 16th, 2008 4:23 pm ET

Sho' you right, Robin!!!!!

Brian   October 16th, 2008 4:22 pm ET

If I hear "redistribution of wealth" from another republican I am going to scream! Nowhere does Obama want to spread wealth!!!! Do you realize that your current administration redistributed wealth twice? My wife and I paid more in taxes than my aunts earn, they received stimulus checks while my family was denied checks because we make too much money!!! You people need to shut up if you have no idea what you are talking about.

Sherri   October 16th, 2008 4:22 pm ET

Considering we are talking AFTER expenses which would include paying your employees. I can't see myself feeling to sorry for someone whose take home is 250,000 a year. Maybe he could give his employees a RAISE with that money and bring himself down to under 250,000 and then he'd be exempt.

Marc   October 16th, 2008 4:21 pm ET

If Joe the Plumber was smart, he would know that he would not be hurt by an Obama tax plan. Than to find out that he doesn't even have a license and he owes back taxes. Well, if McCain used him to jump start his campaign, it failed. The American people are tired of the games. Even though America will not vote for Obama, America is looking for a change. I think though, because of the candidates, America will keep McCain and suffer four more years just to keep the White House the way it is.

RJ - Ohio   October 16th, 2008 4:21 pm ET

Hey Anonymous,
The only way NOTHING will be done is if we elect McSame and his Caribou Barbie sidekick.

He IS George W. Bush and EVERYONE knows it!

T-Ruff   October 16th, 2008 4:19 pm ET

Yahoo just reported Joe The Plummer, doesn't have 250,000 or even a plummer's license.

Deb N Texas   October 16th, 2008 4:19 pm ET

I heard on MSNBC's website that "Joe the Plumber" doesn't even have a plumbers' license. Old Joe has a long way to go!

JIM HAWK   October 16th, 2008 4:19 pm ET

Just keep your cool president Obama and everything will work out..

jennifer   October 16th, 2008 4:19 pm ET

Well, well, well…I am a ' Canadian " and have NO stake in your Elections, But as an interested observer there is ' Something ' about
Mc Same that CREEPS me out, his laugh makes everthing he says
hard to swallow, if you all want to move into the 21st C, please dont elect Santa

Joe is a FAKE!!!   October 16th, 2008 4:18 pm ET

Cmon people its so obvious, this guy is a registered Republican.

haha nice try McCain

Bob Jones   October 16th, 2008 4:17 pm ET

Obama is a Marxist. Good luck with him as president.

Tara   October 16th, 2008 4:17 pm ET

Obama , the slick and snickering Senator Government.
Last night I saw an immature , inexperienced man who had memorized many talking points.
Scary thought to think that he might be in charge with the likes of Pelosi and Reid and the rest of the far left in Washington.
Where are going to be the checks and balances.

Vee   October 16th, 2008 4:17 pm ET

Obama's got this thing figured out. I like it my president is smarter than I am.

Jennifer   October 16th, 2008 4:16 pm ET

hopefully people dont fall for lies that Mcshame are spreading.

Irma in North Carolina   October 16th, 2008 4:16 pm ET

It looks like whole John screwed up again about the plumer. If Mccain is such a problem why doesnt he get his wife to campaign for him, she could probably do a better job than both John and Sarah put together.

Sigh   October 16th, 2008 4:16 pm ET

Hey, if McCain wants to run against Bush, he should run 8 years ago. Oh wait, he already did that. The real McCain did anyway.

Jennifer   October 16th, 2008 4:16 pm ET

obama supporters need to really be wake up and vote. They should not take these polls for granted. every vote counts and is important. dont think that he is ahead in the polls so he doesnt need your vote. he needs every single vote. He will be the best president.

Lando   October 16th, 2008 4:16 pm ET

Ohio..Mccain will build thousands of schools for plumbers so everybody can earn $250,000..What an idiot..

Ruthi Erdman   October 16th, 2008 4:16 pm ET

Maybe McCain is crying in his beer over poor Joe the Plumber with his $250,000/year income because McCain has been married to a millionaire heiress for too long and has forgotten what constitutes a TRUE moderate income. After all, McCain is the man who said that "wealthy" begins at $5 million a year!

Stephanie   October 16th, 2008 4:15 pm ET

Joe the plumber isn't even a licensed plumber. He is a Republican, and he even had to admit that he would get a tax break under Obama's plan. A sad, and overdone, ploy by McCain. Back to the real issues that affect the rest of us working folks.

K.Smith   October 16th, 2008 4:15 pm ET

I said the same thing to my wife while watching the debate… "How many plumbers do you know that make $250,000 a year". Do you mean to tell me I wasted four years of undergrad and two years of grad school to work in corporate America for pennies when all I had to do was get my GED and become a plumber and I could be rich. This guy, Joe, single-handedly restructured the dreams of a generation of children watching the debates last night — Instead of going to Med school, little Billy has deferred his dream of saving lives and has decided to become a plumber :) — Thanks Joe!

Phoenix Lady   October 16th, 2008 4:15 pm ET

All that malarky the Republicans spout about "redistribution of wealth" is a transparent ploy to paint Obama as a Socialist, when all he is attempting to do is correct inequities that have exaggerated the gulf between the "haves" and the "have nots" to an ever increasing and unfair degree. They are so predictable, so self centered, so paranoid and SO TIRESOME!

WHO ME?   October 16th, 2008 4:15 pm ET

Is it true that Joe the plumber is related to the son-in-law of Keating of the Keating 5. This is what is beginning to appear on the internet.

Could this have been an attempt of a set-up via the RNC or even McCains?

Nurseteach   October 16th, 2008 4:14 pm ET

The only plumbing I care about is the human kind. How about cardiac plumbing. How about childhood obesity, diabetes, women's health, autism, alzheimer's. Let's talk about getting America healthy, tough to do without health insurance. Enough with Jo already.

gl   October 16th, 2008 4:13 pm ET

Anonymous – go hide under a rock becasue it is over and Obama will be our next President. SO BLABLABLAB THAT! LOSER!

ines   October 16th, 2008 4:13 pm ET

If we didn't have a MUCH better option for voting than John McCain this country would already be in a DEpression – in a big way.

Go Go GO Obama!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

This is not France   October 16th, 2008 4:13 pm ET

I make a lot less than 250,000 but I don't deserve money from the ones that have worked harder and do earn more. Socialism doesn't work. You will pay no matter what. The rich will make it up and you will still pay the price on the tag. Wake up America before we're just another UN puppet like Europe.

Bob in a hopelessly red state   October 16th, 2008 4:13 pm ET

"I can do it. I know how."

I'm really tired of hearing this from McCain. If you know how to do it, articulate it – tell me how. McCain is sorely lacking on details.

Jenny   October 16th, 2008 4:12 pm ET

I've already cast my vote for Senator Barack Obama and I can't wait for January when he will become our next President.

And by the way: if you are voting by mail: Put an extra stamp on the envelope to make sure your vote counts.

Yolanda/SA, Tx   October 16th, 2008 4:12 pm ET

I tell you I wish I was Joe the plumber.. Must be nice…

Way to go Joe & Obama…Stay focused…

KJ   October 16th, 2008 4:12 pm ET

This guy is presidential. He's not a frustrated, eye-rolling, ticked off old man like McCain.

independent 2008   October 16th, 2008 4:12 pm ET

Joe"the unlicenced plumber".
Wurzelbacher's license EXPIRED in 2002.

Type Name State ID Status Exp. Date Company Name City State Zip County
PL LAWRENCE WURZELBACHER 19752 EXPIRED 09/30/2002 PLUMB CRAZY OKEANA OH 45053 Butler

Connie, DE   October 16th, 2008 4:12 pm ET

I feel sorry for Cindy. Can you imagine living with John? I can't. What an old doddering fool. I watched his body language last night and he didn't walk down the stairs with Cindy he just pointed in the direction he was going, like she was a dog or something.

I don't like John McCain and I wish him well back on the ranch. So that's two people I want to return to their ranches. John and George W., go and Godspeed.

M. Bryan   October 16th, 2008 4:12 pm ET

I've been paying income taxes for a long, long time. My taxes are
based on net income, not gross. I don't think that basis is going to change under President Obama. Someone who doesn't even know how many houses he owns probably does not figure his own income taxes either, or know what they are based upon. Poor Sen. McCainis so far afield it isn't even funny.

Laszlo in L.A.   October 16th, 2008 4:11 pm ET

Is it just me, or does CNN's Electoral College map look like a Jim Crow map from the 1950s.

I'm not suggesting that the McCain campaign is racist, but values in those areas that support him are still deeply rooted in the past.The states still supporting McCain – Texas, Louisiana, Georgia, South Carolina, Tenneessee, Kentcuky – were some of the last segregated parts of the country.

It's time to move the country forward.

Obama/BIden '08.

Ridgeway   October 16th, 2008 4:10 pm ET

Amazing. CNN continues to post the corniest stuff. Who writes these pro-Obama posts? Junior High cheerleaders?

RAH, RAH. Nice Laverne. How's Shirley?

Barack supporter   October 16th, 2008 4:10 pm ET

We sell water treatment systems in a very small business, ,(my husband and one employee!) This business is very dependent on the economy and real estate, we are struggling as with most small business owers.Let me tell you if I was to ever be so blessed as to make over $250,000 per year I would not mind paying an extra 3% in taxes so to help with others who are struggling. As of now I am just trying to make 25,000 per year! and I don't think we will survive another 4 years of the same old failed Bush policies, can't do it

Obama 08!

White-African(born there) American Military BRAT   October 16th, 2008 4:10 pm ET

Ole' Joe the Plumber doesn't know what John McCain has just done to him.

He will now face all the same scrutiny as McCains PIMPED OUT PALIN.

He will become as irrelevent as Palin within a few weeks. We all know that McCain will USE and ABUSE this man until the end.

And frankly, he will deserve it for allowing himself to be McCains next PIMPED OUT TRICK.

Connie, DE   October 16th, 2008 4:10 pm ET

I feel sorry for Cindy. Can you imagine living with John? I can't. What an old doddering fool. I watched his body language last night and he didn't walk down the stairs with Cindy he just pointed in the direction he was going, like she was a dog or something.

I don't like John McCain and I wish him well back on the ranch. So that's two people I want to return to their ranches. John and George W., go and Godspeed.

RealityKing   October 16th, 2008 4:09 pm ET

Dreams without execution are hallucinations. America is in for a real bad hangover should Obama win. But hey.., this conservative thinker is ready for hard times. Are you??

obama fan   October 16th, 2008 4:08 pm ET

I just heard that Joe the Plumber is behind on back taxes. So that's probably why he does not want higher taxes.

Chip   October 16th, 2008 4:08 pm ET

Change you can believe in…

But if he has his way and makes those changes, you won't believe it …..

could happen in this country.

C'est la vie

Martha Mainstreet   October 16th, 2008 4:08 pm ET

Enough of the "Joe Plummer" and "Joe Six-Pack", and the "Wall Street Elite"…..what about the "little people"? Isn't it enough that some of us can no longer afford to put food on our tables, or shelter over our heads?

Perhaps we deserve being left in the dust of all this from our past "non-participation" in the election process. Stop all the carping, pull up your boot-straps and GET OUT AND VOTE!

Doug D   October 16th, 2008 4:08 pm ET

Let's see,

The majority of Fact Checks and Truth Squads about Obama's claims last night are labeled as false or misleading.

Obama outspending the Republicans on negative ads by better than $2 million.

ACORN and Ohio show MAJOR voter irregularities and outright fraud all tied to the Democratic Campaign.

A tax and penalty plan that will drive American jobs out of the country.

A Democratic led Congress for the last two years that put us in this mess.

Frankly Mr. Obama I don't trust you

AM in VA   October 16th, 2008 4:07 pm ET

The median salary for a plumber is $37,500/yr. Joe must be a darn good plumber for the rich and famous to make more than $250,000/yr. Could he be McCain's plumber for his McMansions ?

the other jd   October 16th, 2008 4:07 pm ET

Joe the plumber is obviously a McCain supporter, but god help me, I still think he is hot.

Michael in Houston   October 16th, 2008 4:07 pm ET

It still amazes me how cool, calm and collectd Obama is. Wow, he has doen soemthing that Kerry nor Gore could do, beat up on the Republican machine, without hardly throwing a punch. It is kind of like Roy Jones Jr. in his prime, he wouldn't throw alot of punches, and when he did, they would hurt you, then he would spend the rest of the round making you miss until he felt the need to end the show and then WHAM! right on the chin, fight over. The chin shot will be on November 4th, fight over. For all of you who get the honor of seeing Obama in person, tell him Michael in Houston said: Hello Mr. President.

Dax   October 16th, 2008 4:07 pm ET

Anonymous, I've noticed that all of your comments are negative. I know this network is fair and balanced, but wouldn't your interests be served best on Fox? That’s a place where you and the rest of the unwashed and wallow.

To my fellow thinking people. Don't get to over confident! There are a lot of people out there like, Mr/Ms Anonymous who don't want to see and educated and articulate thinker in White House and they will resort to any form of deceit to do it. DO NOT TRUST THE POLLS! Obama said it best earlier today and I quote " Don't boo get. VOTE"

AM in VA   October 16th, 2008 4:07 pm ET

The median salary for a plumber is $37,500/yr. Joe must be a darn good plumber for the rich and famous to make more than $250,00/yr. Could he be McCain's plumber for his McMansions.

Robin   October 16th, 2008 4:07 pm ET

Big $250,000 Joe Plumber doesn't get work if little $25,000 Joe can't afford to pay him.

AJ   October 16th, 2008 4:06 pm ET

Over his entire political life what has Obama actually accomplished? Besides hoodwink the American electorate? I'm no McCain fan but really, Obama makes fun of his performance over three debates when Obama's own record of accomplishments is paper thin. I hope Obama makes me eat my words after he is elected but am expecting the worse.

Matt   October 16th, 2008 4:06 pm ET

Obama will tax us back to the stone age.

Old white woman for Obama   October 16th, 2008 4:05 pm ET

We are learning a lot today about "Joe the plumber". He has a tax lien on his his house and it not a licensed plumber. McCain vetted Joe about as well as he vetted Palin.
This is exactly why McCain is so bad for America. He get partial information and flies off half cocked. McCain is way too explosive and reactionary to be our President.
He is a scary, angry old man.

TERRI / FLORIDA   October 16th, 2008 4:05 pm ET

COME ON PEOPLE GET REAL!!!! JOE THE PLUMBER WAS A PLANT.
AS WAS THE WOMAN MCCAIN TOOK THE MIC FROM SAYING OBAMA
WAS AN ARAB. GOD BLESS YOU "PRESIDENT OBAMA"
REMAIN COOL, CALM & COLLECTED. ONLY 3) MORE WEEKS

Bring America Back!   October 16th, 2008 4:05 pm ET

If McVain can save BILLIONS of $$$, just HOW does he propose to do it!? He's never said HOW! That is the key. All he said is "We need to, we need to, we need to…" Anyone can say things, just HOW do YOU propose to do it! He's stuck on himself and he thinks this is all a game.

David - MO   October 16th, 2008 4:04 pm ET

Joe the plumber was a Republican plant in the audience. He was put there so McCain could use him during the debate last night to scare people into thinking that Obama is going to take their money. Joe is not a licenced plumber. I don't want to shoot down someone's dream, but I doubt very seriously that Joe was really going to buy the plumbing company. He was a puppet! Heck I want to buy Exon Mobile because under McCain's new tax plan I'll make an additional 4 Billion dollars. Exon needs help because they are struggling financialy. Give me a break!

David

Michelle   October 16th, 2008 4:04 pm ET

You know when the truth is being said no-one want's to hear it, But when someone lies to you about someone, then everyone wants to hear it…Come on America wake up Joe the Plumber was a fake and was there for the McCain side and he never even made close to $250,000 in his life time i'm sure, He's a loser.

Go Obama/Biden08

True American View   October 16th, 2008 4:03 pm ET

McCain, his Campaign & his family voted for OBAMA after learning OBAMA would be better President in early Voting.

Deana Martin   October 16th, 2008 4:02 pm ET

Joe the Plumber and Obama's Restribution of wealth rings of The Democratic Workers Party of 1917.

Mark K   October 16th, 2008 4:02 pm ET

When the dust settles, I think we will see that the whole "Joe the Plumber" story was due to a confusion between "revenue" and "profits or income". Joe Wurzelbach, unless he is fantastically successful, was probably talking about the gross revenue from his business, but he will only pay more taxes if his income/profits are more than a quarter of a million dollars, not if his revenue is more than a quarter of a million dollars.

claire   October 16th, 2008 4:02 pm ET

John McCain is washed up. We need young people with fresh ideas to lead this country. Look how Obama has run his campaign, it's who he has around him. We should get rid of that grumpy old man and his vp that say's she's got nothing to lose by attacking Obama. Hey dummy what about an election. That pick was an insult to working moms across the country. We don't need another four years of stupid,
or that stupid grin on TV

GO OBAMA.

Photon Torpedo Dallas, TX   October 16th, 2008 4:01 pm ET

How many "Aggie" plumbers does it take to lay pipe?

12! 11 to actually dig the hole, 1to lay the pipe…. and 1 U.T. Longhorn to make sure it's done right!

HOOK EM!

That One/Biden 08′

Axelle in CA   October 16th, 2008 4:01 pm ET

Isn't Obama's tax plan of you make $250,000 or more as a HOUSEHOLD? Every household of my age group in my area easily make $250,000 or more and we STILL can't afford reasonable housing!

Gobama   October 16th, 2008 4:01 pm ET

Did any one pay attention to Joe the Plumbers house this morning on the news? What a dump!!!!!!!!!!! For someone making 250K a year there's no way they would live there.

Something smells fishy….

ND Mom for Obama   October 16th, 2008 4:01 pm ET

I just want McCain and Palin to take their Joe's and go away. We'll keep our Joe!

J from DC   October 16th, 2008 4:00 pm ET

His name is not Joe. John McCain was WRONG!
He is not a plumber. Again John McCain was WRONG!
He does not make over $250K. Again John McCain was WRONG!
He taxes will not go up under Obamas plan. McCain was WRONG AGAIN!
He and others like him will get a tax cut or credit under Obamas plan. So, Obama helps him, and John McCain wont

McCain is WRONG 4 for 4.
A waste of 49 mins of debate time.

USAF Staff Sergeant   October 16th, 2008 4:00 pm ET

Obama was great last night. Cool, calm and collected.

McCain was…. a grouchy old man, rolling his eyes and rocking in his seat.

The confused look on McCain's face when Obama said "plumber Joe's" penalty would be "ZERO" was priceless.

H in New York   October 16th, 2008 4:00 pm ET

A presidential candidate is only as good as the people around them. Senator Obama's campaign has shown it can be innovative, learn from its mistakes and respond to Americans. I believe they are the best chance we have to change Washington DC and the partisan gridlock. Senator McCain's campaign has not delivered a consistant message and in trying to show the "maverick" side has made some kneee jerk decisions that are flawed. The choice of Sarah Palin and "I won't / I will" show up to the first debate are examples of knee jerk political decisions vs thought out strategies. I am afraid that is how his people will handle critical issues in the White House.

Sue/PA   October 16th, 2008 4:00 pm ET

Joe the Plumber is a fake and just another gimmick tool for the McCain campaign…wow the list just gets longer and longer

The only REAL person(s) are Barack Obama/Joe Biden

KJ, GA   October 16th, 2008 4:00 pm ET

Good for you! You will be our next president, you showed you are far superior in those debates. You're economic plan is sound and extremely, McCain needs to stop, he rally can't defend hi own stance.

Go Barack/ Biden!

C Spurgeon   October 16th, 2008 3:59 pm ET

Good work Obama.. Stay on the issues and let McCain beat himself.

Tough Lady NC   October 16th, 2008 3:59 pm ET

Last week Joe Sixpack, this week Joe the Plumber, Next week Joe the Repoman. A new person and gimmick every week. People McCain would not give the time of day if he was not consumed by the Presidency. he could care less about everyday hardworking people.

Leslie   October 16th, 2008 3:59 pm ET

Joe owes Texas taxes $1,200. This morning he, said on GMA that people who make more money shouldn't have to pay more. What planet does this unlicensend plumber live on? He isn't even a stand up man, no wonder he will support McCain they are just alike…liar and cheats.

Scott Tucson   October 16th, 2008 3:59 pm ET

McCain pretty much had Obama on the defensive last night. Noticed how Obama didn't bring up the now overused and tired Bush/McCain, Bush/McCain spiel after McCain slammed him on it. And now Obama and Biden are running against Joe the Plumber. I didn't know we had a third party candiate running too.

Enlightened Voter   October 16th, 2008 3:58 pm ET

Anonymous – don't you hate that after almost two years of your hate blogging and lies, and your candidates lies and hate that you are on the side of the losing team? I know it just galls you that you know Obama will win and mccain/palin will be back living their pathetic lives.

Roger   October 16th, 2008 3:58 pm ET

Frankly, when McCain started talking to Joe all of a sudden, I thought he had gone insane.. or having a schizophernic attack . I was like " why is he talking to joe in the middle of a debate??"

Gene   October 16th, 2008 3:57 pm ET

People on the biden blog are saying that Obama and Biden have no clue because it's very possible for a plumber to make that money if he has a business with multiple people working for him.

Well, that being said, that just blows their own arguments out of the water. If you own a business that makes that kind of money and you have to pay salaries, expenses, equipment, rent, etc… then you're not really making 250K a year.. you're making a lot less after expenses. Therefore, Joe the Plummer would be benefiting under Obama's plan. Businesses are taxed based off net profits, not gross receivables.

milo   October 16th, 2008 3:57 pm ET

Good point – it's just another example of McCain being out of touch if his example of an average american is someone making 250k per year.

thomas   October 16th, 2008 3:57 pm ET

I really don't think a McCain presidency would be like a third Bush term, IT WOULD BE TEN TIMES WORSE!

isaac   October 16th, 2008 3:56 pm ET

Oh true true Senator Obama, McCain is a carbon copy of Buash on policy issues. McCain so painfully tried to get a reaction last night but found no one home, he was so eager to get under Senator Obama's skin with tired line talking about how eloquent Senator Obama is but he found that the man is made of steel when it comes to attacks, he just sails through.

Woman for Barack   October 16th, 2008 3:56 pm ET

Exactly the reason he will get my vote……….BARACK THE VOTE!!!!!!!

bridgette   October 16th, 2008 3:56 pm ET

I will be happy on November 5, 2008 because I am getting sick of all this now. I didn't watch the last two debates because I have pretty much made up my mind already. I don't understand at this point who is still undecided. I think no one is undecided I think they just like the attention they are getting. This Joe the plummer mess sounds to convient.

aware   October 16th, 2008 3:55 pm ET

Stop twisting the truth Obama!

Forty percent of Americans don't pay taxes. You would just send them a welfare check.

You sure do spread a lot of prevaricating smooth talk around! :(

cecil   October 16th, 2008 3:55 pm ET

Your Right , 8 more Years Of "Bush Policy"
BLABLABLABLABLABLA
ALL THE McSAME

Obama/Biden 08

Laverne   October 16th, 2008 3:55 pm ET

Our best days are ahead of us with President Obama leading the way!

WC Fields   October 16th, 2008 3:55 pm ET

The reports of Mccain's death have been greatly exaggerated.

:-)

Accountant Guy   October 16th, 2008 3:54 pm ET

Good job President Obama!! We are almost there, you and Joe keep up the good work!!

Obama/Biden '08

abel sterling   October 16th, 2008 3:53 pm ET

tell om my brother, can't wait to see you in the white house doing your thing.

Andrea   October 16th, 2008 3:53 pm ET

McCain couldn't elaborate on how he is going to fix anything. Whoever is elected President, they will inherit a $500billion defecit. With Barack Obama's plan he will add $200+ billion and McCain will add $500+ billion.

bill   October 16th, 2008 3:52 pm ET

My family's combined salaries are far from being 250K p/year….anyone making a quater of a million dollars should be taxed at ahigher rate than those living at or below poverty level. My family is ready to move in the direction that Obama's presidency is going to take us. Together we CAN make a difference.

Number cruncher.   October 16th, 2008 3:52 pm ET

More unfuzzy math…. the only part of the 250,000(taxable net income not gross) that will be taxed is the part the exceeds 250,000. Example, ..if your business has a net taxable revenue of 255,000 (Your gross have to be quite a bit higher) then only the 5,000 would be taxed at the higher rate. So it would come to about 3% of 5,000, which is $150.00. This would be This would be more than offset by the tax credits for health insurance and the elimination of Capital Gains tax and some of the other credits proposed. Obama's plan is much better for the greater proportion of tax payer.

Debbie   October 16th, 2008 3:52 pm ET

State records show Joe is not a licensed plumber. In the country Joe works, he must have a license to work on plumbing.

Joe also had a tax lien filed against him by the state in January 2007. Joe failed to pay his state income tax.

Joe has been a registered Republican since his first election.

Lastly, Joe doesn't make anywhere near the amount he claimed. Truth is, Joe will pay less in taxes under Senator Obama's plan.

Joe, be honest.

McCain check your facts before you drag someone in front of the American public.

Ork   October 16th, 2008 3:52 pm ET

It now turns out, Joe the plumber, will be much better under Obama.. McCain again for the mega-rich.

Cyndi   October 16th, 2008 3:51 pm ET

Ok, so if Obama's tax plan is to give higher taxes to the company's that sell us goods and gas etc…. won't those companies have to raise prices to make up their profits? hmmmmm!

Countdown with Keith Olbermann on MSNBC @ 4pm & 6pm Eastern time   October 16th, 2008 3:50 pm ET

Here is the scoop on Joe the Plumber:

Turns out that Joe Wurzelbacher from the Toledo event is a close relative of Robert Wurzelbacher of Milford, Ohio. Who’s Robert Wurzelbacher? Only Charles Keating’s son-in-law and the former senior vice president of American Continental, the parent company of the infamous Lincoln Savings and Loan.

Above is a direct copy and paste from Google. You would've thought McCain would stay away from the Keating 5 scandal

Thomas   October 16th, 2008 3:50 pm ET

Given the undesirable choice of trusting either the Government or Big Business to look out for the common citizen, I guess I will go with Government.

At least in government there is some oversight and elections.

We sure can't trust corporations to take care of the common citizen.

Brian NYC   October 16th, 2008 3:50 pm ET

Joe the Plumber is another McCain no issue. Just like Maverick and Joe-six pack. Where does he come up with this stuff. His wife?

Tammy   October 16th, 2008 3:50 pm ET

So when will we learn the truth about Joe the Plumber and his possible relationship to Charles Keating of Keating 5?

FactCheck   October 16th, 2008 3:50 pm ET

Joe owes over $1200 in back taxes. I can see why he likes McCain as he seems to have a heckuva lot in common with his running mate.

Bill   October 16th, 2008 3:50 pm ET

The health care discussion was of interest during the debate. One HUGE problem today is that if you are not in perfect health, you can't even BUY health insurance unless you're part of a group plan. I don't care how much of a tax credit McCain promises. Let me say that again – if you have a pre-existing condition, you most likely can't even buy health insurance at any price, unless you can get in a group plan. To get in a group plan, you need a job that offers a group plan.

Get a clue, McCain. PEOPLE ARE DYING BECAUSE THEY CANNOT GET INSURANCE COVERAGE.

50yrwhitefemale   October 16th, 2008 3:49 pm ET

Joe six-pack, Joe the plummer……The republicans seems to be playing to the mental intellect of the people that support their ticket…these people are the same idiots that still support Bush!

j   October 16th, 2008 3:49 pm ET

Joe "the plumber" doesn't have a plumber's license and owes about a thousand dollars in back taxes, or so I've heard. He'd likely benefit from Obama's tax cut proposals.

So McCain appears to have successfully introduced the distraction of Joe "the plumber". That's all the media is talking about.

IT'S THE ECONOMY! I still find McCain's economic agenda confusing and contradictory. But then most of what comes out of the McCain campaign is confusing and contradictory.

Anonymous   October 16th, 2008 3:49 pm ET

You know! He makes a good point!

Straight Forward   October 16th, 2008 3:49 pm ET

John McCain may have had a shot if he knew what he was talking about. When he calls himself speaking on the issues, please know the issues first. And he pretty much doomed himself when he picked Palin as a running mate. This election could have been alot closer if he had chosen a competent running mate. This just shows his lack of judgement and willingness to do anything to get into the White House. Since he will not win the presidency, do you think we could make him "honorary president" for a day?

Izzy on Kwaj   October 16th, 2008 3:48 pm ET

I think those Watergate plumbers may have made 250,000.00 a year.

TmH   October 16th, 2008 3:48 pm ET

Here we go again – Obama and Biden doing the double dodge. Neither Joe the plumber nor John McCain said he makes $250,000. He said he was considering buying a small plumbing company worth $250K annually. That doesn't mean he's making that now. Rather than just admit that there screwing middle America (BTW over 40% of the people in the USA pay no taxes – how do you give a refund to 95% – back to the dole and buying votes), they try to change what was said and lie their way out of it. What a couple of low life slugs!!!

Tulsa S   October 16th, 2008 3:47 pm ET

I think Joe the Plumber was a set up by the McCain campaign so McCain could have some new stuff to throw at Obama in the debate and try to use against him, remember there is nothing the McCain/Palin ticket won't do to try to distroy Obama or to get a vote, since McCain lost the debate don't be surprised to see some other gimmic in the coming weeks………

Tracy McKeon   October 16th, 2008 3:47 pm ET

I'm trying, Barack, I really am. I'm trying not to be cocky, but every now and then, going through my day, I get a giggly feeling that must be "cocky" since I've been married for 20 years so I know it's not the honeymoon giggle! In 2004, I was the only car in my small town to have a "Kerry" sticker. My "neighbors" immediately put up Bush yard signs and put BIGGER bumper stickers on their cars. The night of the election, one of my "neighbors" set off firecrackers in my driveway. Oh, you have no idea how bad I want to BLAST "Signed, Sealed, Delivered" — I even have speakers ready to go out on my porch!

tony   October 16th, 2008 3:47 pm ET

If McCain is going for the votes of plumbers who make over $250,000 a year, he is in bigger trouble than I thought.

Mack   October 16th, 2008 3:47 pm ET

In a McCain administration, Joe Wurzelbach could be Secretary of State !!!

Obama for President   October 16th, 2008 3:46 pm ET

Anonymous…go vote for your right wing conservative candidate and have dinner with him, Joe the plumber and Joe Six Pack!!!!

Craig in Washington   October 16th, 2008 3:46 pm ET

I only intended to comment once. Not sure what happened the first time. Sorry for my redundancy.

Physician in Texas   October 16th, 2008 3:46 pm ET

I should have been a plumber! I'm a physician and I don't make over $250k per year. I think I need to look into this. If Joe is right, I wonder if it's too late for me to go to plumber school……

hurriCAIN PALIN   October 16th, 2008 3:46 pm ET

inexperienced empty suit, NOBAMA

TheTruthHurts   October 16th, 2008 3:46 pm ET

CNN Print the Truth. Unlike the no-nothings that post here, Obama's plan (like all federal income taxes) tax NET INCOME, not Gross Revenue. That means only PROFIT is taxed. This means money left over after paying salaries and expenses.

READ PEOPLE. From the site:

"As a small business owner who claims small business income on your individual tax return (whether through a sole proprietorship, partnership, or S-corp) you pay individual income taxes only on your net income — or profit — and not on your firm’s gross revenue. "

For Obama and 19   October 16th, 2008 3:46 pm ET

SENATOR. SERIOUSLY COOL OBAMA

People do not take anything for granted.

He has so much energy for you.

He is for all of America.

Please register and vote early as possible.

Joe the blogger   October 16th, 2008 3:46 pm ET

Joe the plumber isn't even licensed, tsk tsk. This guy was likely planted there by the McCain campaign. Their campaign is desperate and shameful. I used to like McCain but I've lost all respect for him. And don't get me started on his running mate… wow, never thought someone could make Bush/Cheney look good, but McCain/Palin have done it.

No way no how no McLies   October 16th, 2008 3:45 pm ET

I'm a physician, and I don't even make $250,000/yr. If I did, then I would pay my taxes (whatever higher bracket they fell into)… and guess what… it would patriotic. It's time we start asking "what [we] can do for our country."

Chuck   October 16th, 2008 3:45 pm ET

If you earn a quarter of a million a year, unless you spend every single dollar living beyond your means, then you could in 5 to 10 years be a millionaire. Get the math people. $250,000 is a quarter of a million dollars. No plumber I know unless you have an exclusive contract with Halliburton or the McCain family and their 11 mansions.

Craig in Washington   October 16th, 2008 3:45 pm ET

I was amazed that McCain knew so much about "Joe the plumber". He even knew his full name. And this was a person that supposedly just showed up and simply asked Obama a question at a rally. It was like McCain was right there. Man, news travels fast! Or was "Joe" really a McCain plant?

Anyway, I wish I had a $250K income (before taxes).

KahneeO   October 16th, 2008 3:44 pm ET

I feel sorry for Joe Wuzelberg. He should not have allowed that campaign to PUNK him.

Maybe he could get his life back on track. This is a sad day in this race; because he allowed himself to be sold out only trying to help his party.

Rachel   October 16th, 2008 3:44 pm ET

I guess if I posted a lame post and was such a negative person, I would put my name as anonymous also. The thing McCain isn't telling you is that this guy isn't even a plumber. Check the facts

Proactive voter   October 16th, 2008 3:43 pm ET

Change is in the offing

Obama&Biden 2008

James   October 16th, 2008 3:43 pm ET

Joe the plumber currently has a tax lien against filed against him for not paying his last tax return. If this person is not paying his taxes, why is he considering buying a business?

Beth   October 16th, 2008 3:43 pm ET

McCain just doesn't get it. And Palin is out there on the attack again. For the sake of this nation, I hope the democrats win this November.

I thought Obama did better in the debate. McCain just sounded angry, and wanted to talk about irrelevant stuff like ACORN.

McCain kept acussing Obama of not denouncing this or that. But when Obama brought up how McCain's running mate accused him of "palling around with terrorists" -did McCain denounce Palin's stupid comment? No, instead he defended the audience of Palin's rallies – that was not the question, McOld!

undecided   October 16th, 2008 3:43 pm ET

That is funny, because Obama voter WITH Bush on a number of things as well.

A recent CNN article listed 20 different things that Obama agreed with Bush on AND is carrying over into his own policies.

JIM IN INDIANA   October 16th, 2008 3:43 pm ET

JOE THE PLUMBER NEEDS TO LEARN THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN GROSS INCOME AND NET INCOME….THERE IS A HUGE DIFFERENCE. THIS GUY SEEMS AS BRIGHT AS PALIN.

NO WONDER HE IS VOTING FOR MCSAME.

Tony   October 16th, 2008 3:43 pm ET

MY UNCLE HAS BEEN A PLUMBER AND ELECTRICIAN HIS ENTIRE ADULT LIFE. HE SAID THE MOST HE HAS MADE IN A VERY GOOD YEAR IS AROUND $86,000, AND THAT WAS A VERY, VERY GOOD YEAR.

IF ANYONE TALKS TO JOE THE PLUMBER, MY UNCLE WOULD LIKE TO KNOW IF HE CAN COME WORK WITH HIM.

Anna   October 16th, 2008 3:42 pm ET

The people need a break and we need it now.

bernj   October 16th, 2008 3:42 pm ET

It is so refreashing to hear Obama talk common sense. McAngry and Palin are both so reactionary and shallow.

karen   October 16th, 2008 3:42 pm ET

Get used to President Barack Obama!!!

Washington State   October 16th, 2008 3:42 pm ET

I was thinking maybe my husband should be a plummer. Wow that alot of money. But then I did my research and guess what an average plummer makes 35,000.00 . Weird enough about the plummer. Mccain is trying to distract you from the issues. Go vote remember Obama hasn't won. Novemner 4th vote for Obama for the change we need. It is not a sure thing we need to make it a sure thing on November 4th.
Obama/Biden 08

Florida   October 16th, 2008 3:41 pm ET

I earn way over a quarter – million a year so I'm in the catergory of paying more taxes under Obama's plan, and you know what it won't hurt me one bit to pay more taxes if it help those that make less I wish i had someone to help me when i was making 50k

OBAMA / BIDEN

Jean   October 16th, 2008 3:41 pm ET

I'm a McCain supporter and I will be voting for McCain on November 4th but I see a landslide victory for Obama.

Heck according to the polls – 1/2 the Obama voters can stay and he'll still win.

As for getting 'cocky', I saw a little extra strut in Obama's walk the past few weeks. I think he's getting ready to strut into the White House.

Dee   October 16th, 2008 3:41 pm ET

At least Obama is offering solutions, instead of running around winking and blinking and screaming that the sky is falling.

theProgressiveBigot   October 16th, 2008 3:41 pm ET

Yeah! Let's attack Joe the Plumber!! Kill the Republicans!!!

John in Ohio   October 16th, 2008 3:41 pm ET

Joe the plumber isnt even registered to vote.

D   October 16th, 2008 3:40 pm ET

Is it just me, I thought John McCain was having a heart attack with all the facial expressions.

former Democrat   October 16th, 2008 3:40 pm ET

This guy Obama will do NOTHING but damage to the country. Please cast your vote for John McCain.

mel   October 16th, 2008 3:40 pm ET

Obama does need to be concerned because the Republican dirty tricks have already started in Ohio, Tennessee and Texas(email instructions to Democrates that will result in canceling your vote). The Republicans were able to steal the election from Gore in 2004. The spoiled tantrum of the Republicans will be released to spread havoc in the swing states. I cannot understand why evangelicals would be attracted to Republican candidates. They are not known for "the milk of human kindness" and over the past eight years the Bush Jr. and Republican Congress had an unbelievable number of scandals that broke a few commandments as well. The Republican candidates are not really pro-life, they are pro-Republicans…win at any cost and they you get to do whatever you want. Did you benefit from the last 8 years of Republican rule?

JB - CA   October 16th, 2008 3:39 pm ET

Joe the Plumber is beginning to sound like he was a Republican plant set up by the McCain campaign to try and make Obama look bad. Of course that has backfired since more info was dug up on Joe. One, he does not have a plumbing license and neither does his employer (which is illegal). Joe also has a lien for unpaid income taxes of almost $1200 owed to Ohio. In 2006, he earned around $40,000, a far cry from the $250,000 amount that he is worried will be taxed if Obama is elected. Yep, sounds like McCain picked another loser.

facts are facts   October 16th, 2008 3:39 pm ET

The words out on the Joe the Plumber fiascal with his relationship with the Keating 5 corruption scandal. The blogs all over the internet are now becoming filled with the write ups from Google on who Joe the Plumber really is and who he is related to so just Google it and see for yourselves.

The main stream media will have to cover this story in a few days or be left far behind.

Marc PDX   October 16th, 2008 3:39 pm ET

Obama's running against Joe the Plumber now evidently…

Democrat   October 16th, 2008 3:39 pm ET

If the plumber had his pockets lined with $250K he should have been the owner from jump. This nut job is one of Mccain's surrogats. Ask him how much money he has now that JM paid him off? The plumber sI know ….one who happens to be my father never made near that much in the 5 years he was a plumber or anAC repair man.

Hope is Coming   October 16th, 2008 3:39 pm ET

Mc-Palin and therest of his cronies are Mc-finished

marc   October 16th, 2008 3:38 pm ET

Joe the plumber is a fraud. Look at the evidence spelled out write here on cnn regarding all this tax talk and how it would effect small business and Joe himself …

Gush   October 16th, 2008 3:38 pm ET

It has become an entertainment, very comical. He said, she said, blah blah blah…I think voters are already beginning to get burn out. On the other hand I think most voters are very well prepared who they want to vote for already and I think they already knew since over a year ago….the early voting is one of the reasons and the desperation among many voters to get this thing over with as quickly as possible.

deborah, WV   October 16th, 2008 3:38 pm ET

The news is reporting that there is no one in Ohio with Joe's name that has a plumber's liscense.

This guy must have been a plant for the McCain Campaign. McCain sure kept referring back to good ole "Joe the plumber" last night at the debates.

THE REPUBLICANS ARE SOOOOOOOO LAME!!!!!!!

Craig in Washington   October 16th, 2008 3:38 pm ET

I was curious how McCain knew so much about an "average" person that Obama encountered on a campaign stop. It was like McCain was right there! McCain even knew the guys full name. I guess news does travel fast. Or was "Joe the plumber" just a plant? McCain didn't seem to know anything about anyone else who may have asked Obama a question. Why not? Doesn't anyone else count? Or could McCain only afford one plant at a time? Anyway, I wish I had a plumbing business where I would clear $250K per year.

anonymous in maryland   October 16th, 2008 3:37 pm ET

I just want someone I can trust and there is too much unknown about Obama to trust him. He is a sneaky snake, who is going to screw a lot of people. I vote for the better person and the one who supports and loves our country. I can honestly say that about McCain. Obama's friends are American haters. Why doesn't anyone see that. He is against everything that this country was built on.

Anonymous   October 16th, 2008 3:37 pm ET

It has become an entertainment, very comical. He said, she said, blah blah blah…I think voters are already beginning to get burn out. On the other hand I think most voters are very well prepared who they want to vote for already and I think they already knew since over a year ago….the early voting is one of the reasons and the desperation among many voters to get this thing over with as quickly as possible.

AFRICAN AMERICAN VOTER   October 16th, 2008 3:36 pm ET

@ANONYMOUS…

BLAB..BLAB…BLAB…THAT'S ALL YOU DO….FUNNY I NEVER SEE YOU BLOGS AFTER 5PM…YOU MUST BE USING YOU JOB'S COMPUTER…..LIKE I SAID BEFORE…..GET A LIFE….AND COUNSELING….YOU NEED IT….HATER!!!!

Casey   October 16th, 2008 3:36 pm ET

Obama should be careful when he goes to the "red states". There is no doubt in my my that Republican loonie or Klan's member will try to harm either him or his family.

Obama 08, 12

Tom   October 16th, 2008 3:36 pm ET

This Joe the plumber thing is a joke. $250,000.00 to be a plumber? Get real.

And dont tell me he is buying a business. What is the name of this business that just happens to make him a personal profit of $250,000.00?

Rodger   October 16th, 2008 3:36 pm ET

Obama is about to win 10-12 red states…his electoral count will exceed 400. McCain will become the biggest Republican loser since they ran against FDR.

USA   October 16th, 2008 3:36 pm ET

This year its $250k next year it will be $150k then $100k… he won't stop until he has "spread the wealth" to all the poor. Just remember when this country turns communist, you asked for it by putting this clown into office, obama supports are so blind, they all want something for nothing.

Alex   October 16th, 2008 3:35 pm ET

Wow, I should have been a plumber if 250K is an achievable goal. I went to grad school and I doubt I will ever make that much. So much for straight A grades.

Sharon   October 16th, 2008 3:34 pm ET

Joe the plumber does not have a plumbing license. He owes more than $1100 in overdue taxes. Can we call him Joe the Tax Evader now?

Kathy   October 16th, 2008 3:34 pm ET

His mouth is moving…. He's lying!!

thomas   October 16th, 2008 3:34 pm ET

Who's a terrorist? When the McCain/Palin campaign and the RNC call my home and spew lies and hate messages into my ear, you have become the terrorists. When your right wing war mongering rhetoric spills into my living room every night, you have become the terrorists. When your quest to win means you have abandoned all sense of honesty and decency, you have become the terrorists. You, John McCain, and all who support your twisted maniacial campaign of hate are the ones to be feared.

wait a minute   October 16th, 2008 3:34 pm ET

Senator Obama is right that the race isn't over till it is over.
But he is wrong about math isn't critical to our national security.
Math is critical to not only economy, but also national security.
If we keep on ignoring our math education, math will become a fairy tale in a fairy land.

Sammy   October 16th, 2008 3:34 pm ET

Well Joe himself in his interviews disputed some of the things that McCain said would have affected him. So there you go.

independent   October 16th, 2008 3:33 pm ET

Joe "the plumber" is a wife beating tax cheat, twice divorced.
Look up the record in Ohio.

Elizabeth   October 16th, 2008 3:33 pm ET

Keep up the good work, Obama! Your race has been consistently and genuinely good. I have observed you from the beginning….and I can honestly say you are leader I want for this country. I am glad to say I am voting with my mind and my heart.

Walt   October 16th, 2008 3:33 pm ET

So what's this I have been reading now? Joe the Plumber isn't a certified plumber, isn't making over $250,000 a year and isn't even registered to vote? So how about reporting on this CNN? The whole thing sound fishy to me and it is beginning to make sense why McCain invoked Joe the Plumber in the first place. Sound like more fantasy from the world of John McCain.

Republican who VOTED TODAY for OBAMA   October 16th, 2008 3:33 pm ET

I voted Obama today..go out and do the same as soon as you can!

Some facts on this Joe Plumber:

Joe Plumber does not have a plumbing license

Joe Plumber has relative connections to Charles Keating..Remember that scandal with McCain's name attached to it? yeah, that same one.

Joe Plumber has also not paid taxes according to some of his tax reports. ANDr he is worried about his taxes? Yeah right..

What a joke!! No wonder people cannot find the McCain's ticket to be serious. They are full of lies!

Winnie Hussein . . . in Montana   October 16th, 2008 3:33 pm ET

From whom much is given, much will be required.

Northwest Washington   October 16th, 2008 3:33 pm ET

Joe the Plumber Warzelbacher, does very well to make an income of $250.000 as a plumber. The average annual income for a plumber is $47,000. It also turns out that there are no records in Ohio that Joe has a plumbers license or has ever had a plumbers license. This is a must in the State of Ohio. I think this story is going to go down the drain.

Jeanette   October 16th, 2008 3:33 pm ET

I just early voted in North Carolina – the lines were LONG, and it took over 2.5 hours before I finished.
My very first Democratic vote ever, and it's because of Senator Obama and Joe Biden!
God Bless America!!!

President Barack Obama   October 16th, 2008 3:33 pm ET

98% of folks know who they are going to vote for by now. It's ALL relative at this point. Undecideds LOVE the ATTENTION!!!
WE NEED NOT GET RELAXED DEMS because some folks may feel this is in the bag & doesn't matter if they vote or not. We NEED A DECIDED VICTORY because you know the REPLUBS are SNEAKY & UNDERHANDED & will not rest until they figure a way to STEAL THIS ELECTION. KEEP FIGHTING & NEVER PUT YOUR GUARD DOWN!!!!

IF you can vote early doi it!!!!

Brack Your Vote 08!!!!!

Gracie   October 16th, 2008 3:33 pm ET

Hey Anonymous – you must love "banging your head up against that wall over and over again…" Just don't know when to stop banging that head. I'm sure you also voted for Bush TWICE. DAH…LOL

Karen - It's time for change   October 16th, 2008 3:32 pm ET

Joe the Plumber doesn't relate to my life at all. I'm the average person making 50 – 60K a year. Warren Buffet said, why should someone who makes 50K a year be taxed the same as me who is worth 56 Billion dollars. Warren Buffet was right and so is Obama. If Joe the plumber is making 250K and doesn't want to share the wealth with his employees who making less than him, then he is a selfish person. Joe should want everybody to experience joy the same as him. Anyhow, I just heard Joe the plumber say, he was called by the Republican party to be at the rally in Ohio, so I'm not surprise to hear he was planted the McCain party.

Obama/Biden '08.

EW in Midwest   October 16th, 2008 3:32 pm ET

Sen Obama's tax proposal is more than fair and if it had been in place during the last 8 years the economy would not be in horrible shape.

therealist   October 16th, 2008 3:32 pm ET

What is Joe talking about!? No one in his progressively elite neighborhood makes less than 2 million a year!!!

richard   October 16th, 2008 3:32 pm ET

Reporter who claimed someone yelled kill him at Republican rally found to not be credible. No one heard it. He made it up. Time to report it CNN.

Biff   October 16th, 2008 3:32 pm ET

I'M NOT GEORGE BUSH…

i just play him on TV…

jeff in MA   October 16th, 2008 3:32 pm ET

"Ask not what your pumber can do for you, but what can you do for your pumber!"

President Barack Obama   October 16th, 2008 3:31 pm ET

98% of folks know who they are going to vote for by now. It's ALL relative at this point. Undecideds LOVE the ATTENTION!!!
WE NEED NOT GET RELAXED DEMS because some folks may feel this is in the bag & doesn't matter if they or not. We NEED A DECIDED VICTORY because you know the REPLUBS are SNEAKY & UNDERHANDED & will not rest until they figure a way to STEAL THIS ELECTION. KEEP FIGHTING & NEVER PUT YOUR GUARD DOWN!!!!

IF you can vote early doi it!!!!

Brack Your Vote 08!!!!!

70 hr/wk Worker in USA   October 16th, 2008 3:31 pm ET

I work 7 days a week right now to set up a future for myself and my family. I do make 250K+ a year……. since when does my hard work belong to someone else? This is the USA…. if you don't like your situation change it…. don't take it out of the hands of those who EARN it.

Gracie   October 16th, 2008 3:30 pm ET

JOHN McCAIN = NO SOLUTIONS, JUST PART OF THE PROBLEM!

JOHN McCAIN = NO SOLUTIONS, JUST PART OF THE PROBLEM!

JOHN McCAIN = NO SOLUTIONS, JUST PART OF THE PROBLEM!!

Baze   October 16th, 2008 3:30 pm ET

Joe the B.S.'er. Hi my name is Joe, as in "Joe Six Pack", and I stand to make the very convenient amount of 250k EXACTLY. Even though people can't even pay their mortgages, they're going to pay me thousands of dollars to work on their foreclosed homes. Even though the service industry is just about dead, and I live in one of the most economically depressed states in the U.S. I'm going to make 250k, because I'm a hard working Republican. Gimme a ff'n break.

ONE NATION

carlo   October 16th, 2008 3:30 pm ET

I know LOTS of plumbers and that guy is full of crap. He doesn't even have a license! Ridiculous. All the dufus had to do was look at Obama's web site and plug in his NET (I'll bet he thinks his gross is taxed) and he could have at least have had some clue as to what he would get. It doesn't matter, though. I think he was a plant.

chuks   October 16th, 2008 3:30 pm ET

Barack is right. We all gotta stay focused.

Baby B   October 16th, 2008 3:29 pm ET

Looks like this Plummer guy dosent like to pat taxes as it is. He has a lean on his home now.

GRANDMA   October 16th, 2008 3:29 pm ET

McBush thinks american are only the 5% rich, in that case he is right Obama will rase tax on them.
Who is American is 95% of us that Obama cut the tax on .
We want to see how much your wife paying tax?
Obama is for Joe and me and 95% of American. McBush is for 5% the rich and yes we want to be rich so we can pay tax this is what make the America , America not just 5% rich to be richer and make decision for us 95%

Greg in Mpls   October 16th, 2008 3:29 pm ET

this Joe guy is just a distraction for McCain. Everytime people start looking closly at him, he finds someone to point out and yells, "LOOK! Look at that person! Don't pay attention to me!"

Let's face it, McCain does not impress people. He does not inspire anyone. So he has to find someone to make his campaign about.

Same thing he did with Palin. He knows the base wasn't going to come out and vote for him, so he had to find someone to get them excited about. That's exactly what this Joe the Plumber is. A distraction.

From what I've read about Joe…he should be voting for Ron Paul anyway.

ananymous   October 16th, 2008 3:29 pm ET

If Hillary Clinton is your great friend then why did you steel her FL and MI delegates to get nominated.

Cynthia; Bham   October 16th, 2008 3:29 pm ET

Senator Obama is for the everyday average citizen in America and I hope that the American people can see through all of the garbage being put out there and vote their wallets.

Phil, Ashburn, VA   October 16th, 2008 3:29 pm ET

Joe the plumber was a set up McCain campaign. He is a republican using Repubs talking points. He is not making $250K and most small business don't. What a joke?

John Smith   October 16th, 2008 3:29 pm ET

Why are the Republicans so much afraid of paying taxes?

We pay taxes to support our government and its related responsibilities. If only Democrats are willing to pay taxes, then only Democrats should be given the RIGHT to be in Government. The Republicans should find another home…

RealityKing   October 16th, 2008 3:29 pm ET

Democrats have no problem dissing on average Americans. We're rich in their eyes..

Nom Deplume   October 16th, 2008 3:29 pm ET

What I am reading on these threads convinces me that this country is ready to embrace socialism. A lot of folks have taken Joe the Plumber to task for "skimming profits from his workers."

The famous american socialist, Norman Thomas said that americans would not knowingly vote socialist, but that they would adopt it incrementally until one day America would be a socialist nation.

I think he was wrong. Ken in Dallas and others clearly want socialism and they want it now. Personally, this tax lawyer thinks that it will be the start of the death spiral for what used to be known as the American way of life. Comrade Joe the Plumber had better get used to it.

Won't be long before the censors at CNN won't post any dissent at all, right comrades?

Countdown with Keith Olbermann on MSNBC @ 4pm & 6pm Eastern time   October 16th, 2008 3:29 pm ET

Joe the plummer??? More like Joe the meth addict.

Red   October 16th, 2008 3:28 pm ET

You know, I use to want to be rich, but now I don't think being wealthy will be fun anymore.

How could I get by on more than $200,000 a year?

I don't know Joe the "Plumber"   October 16th, 2008 3:28 pm ET

Quite frankly I don't know Joe the plumber and to be honest I can't really identify with his situation. I am a 24 year college student who is worried about whether or not there will even be a job for me when I graduate. That is my reality, Joe the "Plumber" is just another gimmick by McSAME and Joe needs to realize that he is simply a pawn in Mr. Means political strategy.

SoCal   October 16th, 2008 3:28 pm ET

There are some interesting news on Joe The Plumber (CNN check the Toledo Blade).

1) "Joe the Plumber" isn’t a plumber — at least not a licensed one, or a registered one.

2) He's a registered republican.

3) Court records from a divorce show Mr. Wurzelbacher made $40,000 in 2006.

In other words, this guy would get 3 times as much tax relief from Obama's rather than from McCain, yet, he would rather vote for McCain because "Obama is too socialist".

As smart as it gets!

Carlos   October 16th, 2008 3:28 pm ET

In a recent Fact check article, an explanaiton was offfered on how the tax system works and how Mr. McCains claims that Mr.Obama's plan would tax 50% of Joe's income was false and entirely misleading. People should read it.

Fact is, that although you may have a number of employees, and a total GROSS eanings in excess of $250,000, by the time you calculate all of your business expense deductions, you are usually left with a very small percentage of your total revenue. It is usually the net revenue ( not the gross) upon which you will be taxed. To ralize a net revenue of $ 250,000 you will likely be generating groos revenues in excess of 2 million dollars (in most cases)

Barak Obama needs to spell these things out clearly.

Low   October 16th, 2008 3:28 pm ET

Anonymous – I fell you , that McCane is more of the same!

CR in WI   October 16th, 2008 3:28 pm ET

There are 40-45% of Americans supporting McCain. Joe is just one of them. Not a bad guy, just uneducated on the plans and the circumstance.

If your company makes $400k, and you spend $200k on your workers and supplies, you along with 98% of the other small businesses will not see a tax increase. It is that simple.

McCains distortion is typical of how he has addressed anything this campaign. Everything on his side of the fence is golden, everything on the other side is scary and bramble filled.

He should renounce the tough first dudes involvement in AIP before he asks Obama to renounce unsolicited comments by his supporters. . .
Can't wait for Nov. 5th when its all over!
BO08

Brenda   October 16th, 2008 3:28 pm ET

And he is right on the money, McCain had no plans to change anything until he started loosing, then he just got angrier and created more lies. Pityful and to think he is in my state today makes me sick. No McBush and No Palin!!!!!

Mari   October 16th, 2008 3:27 pm ET

Barack Obama's tax plan is pretty fair considering that 95% OF AMERICANS MAKE LESS THAN 250,000 million per YEAR….i dont kno about u but i would rather have someone give me a tax break than give it to the oil companies and the wealthy….

OBAMA-BIDEN 08

Nicolas127   October 16th, 2008 3:27 pm ET

Sam in Orlando October 16th, 2008 3:12 pm ET

Obama's tax plan is a fair tax plan… if you earn less than a QUARTER-MILLION PER YEAR than you need to know this plan.

How can you say this is fair! Who are you or Obama to determine that 1 quater million is the right amount? What is tomoorrow he decides it 100K? it's wrong to re-distribute anyone's wealth!

ONLY 20 MORE DAYS IN WHICH WE HAVE TO LISTEN TO MOOSE FLATULENCE FROM THE NEWLY CROWNED 2008 MISS MOOSE ANAL SPHINCTER!   October 16th, 2008 3:26 pm ET

Finally, McCrypt and I agree on at least one thing!

We both have Obama exactly “where we want him”!

Debby   October 16th, 2008 3:26 pm ET

People go and watch the interview again with Joe the plumber. The guy said he wants to buy a BUISNESS that makes over 250. a year he didn't say he made that in his PAYCHECK. So again a big GAFFE by Biden. It looks like Obama didn't understand him either from that interview. All Obama is talking about is paychecks and the plumber was talking about taxing the buisness if he bought into it. Its all in the interview from begining to end. If Biden doesn't think a plumber can't make over 250. a year in his buisness with say 3 employee's then he hasn't been out into the construction world in a long time. One plumbing job on a 3thousand square house can run from 15 to 30 thou. alone depending on what is entailed.

reggie   October 16th, 2008 3:26 pm ET

Obama is all talk! McCain finally pressed him to answer some of his positions.

Lesley   October 16th, 2008 3:26 pm ET

If anyone cares to actually check out Joe the plumber, he doesn't even own the business. McCain sounded ridiculous referring to this guy over and over during the debate. His info about the man wasn't even accurate. Besides, economists and tax experts say that fewer than 2% of small business owners would pay more under Obama's plan. Are we going to listen to Repub spin or to fact-checking experts?

Norm   October 16th, 2008 3:26 pm ET

I thought the "Joe the plumber" bit was somewhat overdone. As it turns out, Joe the plumber doesn't have a license. I wonder if the county where he works is aware of it.

Lori in AZ   October 16th, 2008 3:26 pm ET

Turns out that Joe Wurzelbacher from the Toledo event is a close relative of Robert Wurzelbacher of Milford, Ohio. Who’s Robert Wurzelbacher? Only Charles Keating’s son-in-law and the former senior vice president of American Continental, the parent company of the infamous Lincoln Savings and Loan. The now retired elder Wurzelbacher is also a major contributor to Republican causes giving well over $10,000 in the last few years.

Poetic   October 16th, 2008 3:26 pm ET

JOE BLOW

concern   October 16th, 2008 3:25 pm ET

Come on i make over 250,000 a year and i still think it's a good plan!
Let's stop worrying about ourself all the time some people in the USA our loosing eveything they own!!

Abby   October 16th, 2008 3:25 pm ET

The New York Times is reporting that Joe is not a licensed plumber nor has ever been apprenticed as a plumber. Looks like the Mavericks forgot to vet yet another aspect of their story. Incompetent.

You Know Who   October 16th, 2008 3:25 pm ET

All the adjectives attached to non visionary McCain:

McBush…….McWar……..McSame………McSenile…………McGrumpy…………..McGreedy………..McShame……McLame…………..McClown…………McPalin……..McInsane…..McClueless

Add 2 more to the list come November: McLoser……….McFry.

JAS   October 16th, 2008 3:25 pm ET

Joe the plummer, may have concerns, but I dought that his concerns
are related to Obamas tax plan. McCain, enough of your sleeze!!!

Greed is not good   October 16th, 2008 3:25 pm ET

Joe BIDEN said it best about the other Joe. McWarmonger attempting to play a violin and make people feel sorry for a plumber that supposedly makes over $250K? Does he use gold-plated pipes or pay himself $1000 per hour? How absurd.

Twinkie   October 16th, 2008 3:24 pm ET

The interesting thing is that according to the reports, "Joe the Plumber" isn't a registered voter. Hmmmm…………..in the meantime, I'm in agreement, I don't know many plumbers or other technicians making more than $250000 a year.

John   October 16th, 2008 3:24 pm ET

They are trying to distort the plumber as a business owner and trying to make him out to be a liar. He is not just a plumber but he is one of millions of people trying to start a business and make jobs. Not just a plumber. They need to stop with the distortions. It is turning me off. I'm voting McCain now to help support the new business owners and potential business owners so they can help make more jobs without penalizing them by increasing their taxes causing them to lay off people to cut costs. If Obama says its ONLY 5%.. then why does he need to raise taxes for ONLY 5%.. it doesn't make sense.. if it is really ONLY 5% then let the ONLY 5% keep their taxes where they are at!!! Dumb move Obama.

Nicolas127   October 16th, 2008 3:24 pm ET

Lets' re-distribute the wealth, I'm glad Joe the plumber got it! Come on America wake up and smell the coffee!

SoCal   October 16th, 2008 3:24 pm ET

There are some interesting news on Joe The Plumber (CNN check the Toledo Blade).

1) "Joe the Plumber" isn’t a plumber — at least not a licensed one, or a registered one.

2) Court records from a divorce show Mr. Wurzelbacher made $40,000 in 2006.

In other words, this guy would get the most out of Obama's plan, but he would rather vote for McCain because "Obama is too socialist".

Smart as it gets, huh?

check and checkmate   October 16th, 2008 3:24 pm ET

Obama your not in the same league as Hillary, she had earned the nomination, you gamed the system and your not in her league. With all the debt your going to inherit, in four years your name will be MUD, or Bush II, not the miracle worker.

2012 Hillary the real deal ;-)

voter   October 16th, 2008 3:24 pm ET

I don't know of a plumber making over $250,000 in my neighborhood either. Not to mention that Joe the plumber has no license which is a requirement and he is not registered to vote.

Linda Schatzer   October 16th, 2008 3:24 pm ET

Hey may be McCain can pay Joe the Plumbers back taxes huh. Now I wouldnt doubt thats just why good ole Joe is doing what he is doing. This man is an obvious phoney. Buy his company he works for???? Please Mr. Joe..you cant even pay your taxes. Who are you trying to fool????? Oh and if his name is spelled wrong on his voters registration….doesnt this make him unable to vote???? I mean it has thousands of others.

NYFN08   October 16th, 2008 3:24 pm ET

It's interesting in the debate how Obama responded to each of McCain's attacks, while McCain continued to speak in generalities and throw the kitchen sink at him. McCain could not specifically answer a question to save his life. He seemed flustered at times, while Obama stayed cool and stuck to the, yes, facts.

Noah   October 16th, 2008 3:24 pm ET

Sorry Sam, but Obama's tax plan is Socialism. It is wealth distribution. There are over 50 million Americans who do not pay income taxes. Obama is going to send them a check. That is not a tax cut. That is welfare. A tax cut would mean that the percentage they are taxed on their income goes down. That won't happen. It will remain the same, but they will get a tax check. And for those 50 million people who dont pay taxes they will get money taken from inceasing taxes of people who make $250,000+. That is welfare.

Nimi from NY   October 16th, 2008 3:23 pm ET

Even a nurse with two full time job, it will he hard to get to this amount of money. But anyways, even if it be that Joe makes such an amount of money his secretary may be way long to getting there. His secretary might even be his wife working for someone else like him. So, Joe go figure.

Lucille Ball   October 16th, 2008 3:23 pm ET

Stick a fork in McCain…he's done. LOL!

Rachael   October 16th, 2008 3:23 pm ET

Are you sure? Did you actually do your homework on this Sam in Orlando?? How positive are you and what fact basis do you have to be able to say Obama's tax plan is fair. He is raising taxes for people with revenues over 250K from 36 to 39%. There is a statement in an article (look up fact from last debate on Obama's tax plan) that says he will leave the White House….IF allected….leaving this country in even further debt. Hum….I guess that would be a good tax plan…..for some.

FreeNLovIt   October 16th, 2008 3:23 pm ET

About healthcare, there is nothing scary about healthcare for all.

If we use our brain and common sense, we'll find the right formula for it.

I believe in prevention and I believe that people should be educated on how to prevent health problems.

I understand there are concerns, but anyone should be able to walk into a doctor's office if a screwdriver flew into his/her eyes.

Healthcare is a need.

Karen- Bring on the Elections - WE ARE ONE   October 16th, 2008 3:23 pm ET

Obama tax plan is absolutely fair.

If Joe the Plumber is not relevant in my life at all. McCain was using this poor man as a way to get to the American people as Obama's going to raise taxes for all. I'm the average person making 60K a year. Warren Buffet said, why should someone who makes 50 or 100 K a year be taxed the same as me who is worth 56 Billion dollars. Warren Buffet was right and so is Obama. If Joe the plumber is making 250K and doesn't want to share the wealth with his employees who making less than him, then he is a selfish person. Joe should want everybody to experience joy the same as him. Anyhow, I just heard Joe the plumber say, he was called by the Republican party to be at the rally in Ohio, so I'm not surprise to hear he was planted the McCain party.

Obama/Biden '08.

Anonymous   October 16th, 2008 3:23 pm ET

BLABLABLABLABLABLA
ALL THE SAME
AND NOTHING WILL BE DONE

Michael   October 16th, 2008 3:23 pm ET

I am going to pull my Kids out of College and put them in a Plumber Apprentice program. Wow! $$$250,000 a year Plumbers woo hoo. If my kids can make that much money as plumbers. Heck I will be happy to pay their tiny tax increase under Obama. Face it Kids. Joe the Plumbers real name is not Joe. He is not licensed as a Plumber and their are plans for him to be put on show at the McBush Rallies.
Joe the Plumber was a plant. Just like the Black guy at the McBush speech that was yelling about Rev. Wright. He was a local Republican Radio Program Host. Obama has plans for our economic recovery. McBush has gimmicks.

ww   October 16th, 2008 3:22 pm ET

you can go to barackobama.com and use the tax calculator to see how it affects your own personal situation!

sarah1   October 16th, 2008 3:22 pm ET

obama's tax plan is nothing more than socialist wealth redistribution. take it from the rich and give it to the poor. guess what if those folks are so dam poor why do they all have cell phones? do not rob the rich to finance the deadbeats tell the dummies to get a job and stop whining.

Misuse of Power   October 16th, 2008 3:21 pm ET

Seven Vice Presidents have had to take over the role of President! Thats a one in seven chance that Palin would become the leader of the free world!

ARE YOU WILLING TO TAKE THAT CHANCE?

J.P.   October 16th, 2008 3:21 pm ET

Obama….you are telling bold-faced lies to the American people. All they have to do is watch the dabate to discredit you. Are that dumb?

Misuse of Power   October 16th, 2008 3:21 pm ET

Seven Vice Presidents have had to take over the role of President! Thats a one in seven chance that Palin would become the leader of the free world!

ARE YOU WILLING TO TAKE THAT CHANCE?

JUNIOR   October 16th, 2008 3:21 pm ET

IT IS CLEAR THAT SO CALLED PLUMBER WAS LYING AND WAS A SET UP ! SINCE MAJORITY OF AMERICANS TO 95% WOULD BENEFIT FROM OBAMA´S PLAN, THEN THAT IS FINE ! LET JOE LYING PLUMBER GO SUFFER UNDER McCAIN !

karoderick reece   October 16th, 2008 3:20 pm ET

Get'er done. Go OBAMA. THe furture first lady is beautiful. The rope a dope worked with perfection!

Pamela Alexander   October 16th, 2008 3:20 pm ET

I was wondering if Joe the Plumber considered Republicans only give tax cut to the wealthy. I am one of the people who make under 250,000 and I sure could use a break. I also like Joe the plumber work very hard for my money as he put and doesnt' think he should get a tax raise of only 3%

Mark, Cleveland Ohio   October 16th, 2008 3:19 pm ET

well said, Barack.

Blue By You   October 16th, 2008 3:19 pm ET

VOTE VOTE VOTE

Dennis Philadelphia   October 16th, 2008 3:19 pm ET

Another thing is who the heck is feeling bad for a plumber making 250K???? a Non Licensed RESIDENTIAL Plumber at that… He must own the entire towns plumbing clients…

FreeNLovIt   October 16th, 2008 3:19 pm ET

8 years of TAX cut HASNT help us. Which part of the equation do we not understand? We lived under 8 years of GLORIOUS CAPITALISM with the W Administration. It DOESNT WORK.

ANGIE   October 16th, 2008 3:18 pm ET

Joe the Plumber was republican plant planted by Mccain to scare people of Obamas tax plans Mccain has became so desperate no telling what he may do!

FreeNLovIt   October 16th, 2008 3:18 pm ET

Why are Americans so afraid to pay taxes? I dont like taxes, but our COUNTRY needs our contribution. We need to stop the war and pay our taxes to get our COUNTRY going.

Is it that patriotic to keep borrowing money from foreigners and ask the younger generations to FOOT the bill?

I dont understand it. I think we need to pay our taxes and review our wasteful spending habits. You definitely dont want to get rid of some earmarsk. They create jobs and get our economy going.

LIP   October 16th, 2008 3:17 pm ET

There are plenty of plumbers who have several employees working for them that probably gross $250k a year. After taxes, it is probably $150k a year and after overhead, it is more like $100k a year. Neither Botox Biden or "up to his neck in Acorns" Obama has ever worked in the real world where we actually get our hands dirty doing real work and they are telling us the facts? Give me a break.

joseph   October 16th, 2008 3:17 pm ET

actually there are several plumbers in the central texas area that are making pretty good money, its just alot of it goes to maintaning their fleet of vehicles, paychecks, insurance, tools, phone lines, internet connections, etc. after its allsaid and done they dont get to keep that much for themselves. I just hope obamas tax plan takes into consideration that small businesses could make upto several million a year and STILL couldnt afford to pay more in taxes, so obama can "Spread the wealth.". I am starting to hate people who always seem to think that govt is the answer, bunch o braindead lemmings.

irony   October 16th, 2008 3:17 pm ET

Mccain was trying to head-oof an Obama landslide. He spewed every hateful thing he could throw at Obama. it was obvious mccain was trying to stop the right-wing voters from continuing to abandon his sinking ship. Ever issue he brought was straight from the hate-mongers' talking points of am radio.

S. Shay   October 16th, 2008 3:17 pm ET

Obama and Biden realilze this Joe guy was plant from the McCain campaign. He isn't too concerned about taxes cause he apparently hasn't paid them and he's not even a registered plumber. Therefore he was hailing hypotheticals at Obama and McCain took the whole story and ran with it. How can you be reprimanding Obama for raising taxes for a person who with his current income would benefit from Obama's plan? All McCain tries to do is make news cycles with his low information voters and low information media. He expects that the nation is still asleep after voting for Republicans twice, he's wrong. He's completely out of touch with reality.

Dennis Philadelphia   October 16th, 2008 3:16 pm ET

Obama should just keep talking about how his policy would help small businesses like a "joe the plumber" instead of questioning the individual income amount. Keep taking the high road Mr. President… We need that from Washington.

VIRGIL   October 16th, 2008 3:16 pm ET

Some of you people are way out of touch. A small buisness to only make a gross profit of 250K, is a very little margin, for most small buisness to survive on. Just checkout the facts , mabe through the SBA

norb   October 16th, 2008 3:16 pm ET

"Joe the Plumber" is related to Charles Keating. Some reported needs to investigate this.

TrueAmerican   October 16th, 2008 3:16 pm ET

I was truly AMAZED to see how Obama could manage to treat Mccain like JUST a BARKING , WHINING Old Dog while answering cooly SOME of his stupid arguements while laughing away at the other non sense type of questions ….

He really stuck to his no nonsense approach of talking about issues that connect to the common man and the realities we have today …

WOW WOW

People make no sense   October 16th, 2008 3:16 pm ET

It was a setup and everybody knows it. Joe the Plummer said today on Katie Couric that he doesn't make near $250,000.00 but he is looking towards the future in hopes of making that much one day. He then talked about socialist and wanting the country to stay democratic. He was a plant and everybody knows it. Great Job Obama.

Molly   October 16th, 2008 3:16 pm ET

obama – you can speak well – and do present well – BUT you are
still a FRAUD. As a DEM – I will be VOTING for McCain – and Millions of Americans feel the same way – guess we are the SMART group.

Kiah G   October 16th, 2008 3:15 pm ET

Obama knows how to fight McCain on his smears and using issues. The McCain campaign seems gimmicky and insincere and the american people see right through them.

Deb in Vegas   October 16th, 2008 3:15 pm ET

I'm curious to find out what the heck is wrong with someone working hard, either in their own business or for someone else, and earning $250,000 a year? Isn't that the point of working hard so, someday, you can reap the benefits of your hard work? My husband and I have worked a combined total of over 50 years and continue to work and we finally made it to point where we make over $250,000. Nobody gave this money to us. We worked hard to earn it and still work hard to earn it. It didn't happen after 5 years or 10 years. It took over 30 years for me and over 20 years for my husband. I don't mindpaying my share of taxes. I do mind paying extra taxes to support those people who don't work hard or expect everything to be handed to them. Americans are guarnteed the right to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. I don't think that pursuit should start with chasing down my paycheck so you can be happy.

Mothernature Houston,Tx   October 16th, 2008 3:14 pm ET

McCain dont try to cheat on a landslide. Cheating is not an option McCain! Give it up!!!!!!!

Johnathan   October 16th, 2008 3:14 pm ET

John McCain said it perfectly in the debate: "Zero!?"

That's how many electorals he's going to win after Barack Obama is through with him.

Bruce   October 16th, 2008 3:13 pm ET

keep it going and bring up that McCain has tired old idea..we need someon freash in the WH.

Brian   October 16th, 2008 3:13 pm ET

Joe the Plumber is a perfect example of how republicans get voters to vote against their own economic interest. Turns out Joe made $40,000 in 2006. He also has a tax lien in excess of $1000. He is a long way from making 250K and this economy is making it more unlikely he will get there. Obama has proposed an additional $1,000 tax rebate to guys like Joe, plus reduced taxes. Joe could pay off his lien. Under McCain's proposals, nothing changes, the wealthy keep getting Bush/McCain's gift to them.

Shay   October 16th, 2008 3:13 pm ET

At least Obama is not getting the big head about the election. He is on a positive role and say to everyone that just because I am ahead please don't let your guard down. McCain is a dirty old man and you can't trust him. So everyone should take heeve and go to the poles and vote. Obama Obama Obama.

Alabama for Obama   October 16th, 2008 3:13 pm ET

Joe the Plumber is just one more ploy in the arsenal of Rovian dirty tricks John McCain is employing in this campaign. He's using the Joes — whether plumbers or six-packs — as a political device. He doesn't care about common people — no Republican ever has. He doesn't care about women either — or he wouldn't use a token like Palin as a running mate. She's not a running mate — she's a running mouth that never stops. I also worry about the environment, and the only thing the Republicans know to recycle is dirty politics, war, and their insane economic policies that have put us where we are today.

Tam in CO   October 16th, 2008 3:13 pm ET

It's time for real change and Obama is the man for the job. Having been in Washington for such a short time, he isn't posioned like the other guy. He has plans. He has told us what those are. We haven't gotten anything out of the other guy that is substantial or worth holding on to. God be with you in the White House Obama!!!! And for you Republicans who are going around telling us that if McCain wins, we can move to Venezuela, Iran, N. Korea, please tell me how American is that? Sounds like a Communist or Socialist statement to me. Now that is scary!!!

Obama/Biden '08

Shari, NY   October 16th, 2008 3:13 pm ET

It amazes me how McCain tried his darnest to distort Obama's tax plan. It is obvious that he is now preaching to the ignoramuses whose votes he sorely needs. Anyway, time to flush the "Joe" story. Wait, not yet!!! Another halloween costume idea is born.

McShame   October 16th, 2008 3:13 pm ET

Please everyone we must keep fighting this fight until Nov.5th after voting day!!! Yes we can!!!

Obama/Biden 08/12!!

well... if the shoe fits   October 16th, 2008 3:12 pm ET

i love how when fox brings up how many times Joe the plumber was mentioned they leave out the clip where mccain says

CONGRATULATIONS JOE ..YOU'RE RICH
CONGRATULATIONS JOE .. YOU'RE RICH

* grin * *snort * * grimace * * brewd *

November the 5th he'll watch the playback and maybe he'll see why he didn't win.

I doubt it though.

Sam in Orlando   October 16th, 2008 3:12 pm ET

Obama's tax plan is a fair tax plan… if you earn less than a QUARTER-MILLION PER YEAR than you need to know this plan.

jayel   October 16th, 2008 3:12 pm ET

Obama definitly cant get complacent now. The pitbull with lipstick is in Maine campaigning so Obama better make sure it stays blue.

PA voter   October 16th, 2008 3:11 pm ET

I'm voting for a candidate who best represents me, and that candidate is Barack Obama.

In my humble opinion, I think those who still think McCain can do and has done no wrong are the same people who still think George W Bush is a good President.

PRESSED   October 16th, 2008 3:11 pm ET

AN OBAMA WIN = SKITTLES FOR EVERYONE

Repub for O   October 16th, 2008 3:11 pm ET

You mean Joe the Plumber who the Toledo Blade says isn't actually a licensed plumber. He also has trouble paying his taxes, so I'm not really sure what he's worried about under either Obama or McCain, he's not paying them anyway.

That and he's more than likely related to Charles Keating's son-in-law, Robert, from Milford, Ohio.

Before taking over that business, I think Joe should hire a business manager to explain to him the difference between gross revenue and profits and that the increase in taxes on him is only 3% or what it is now….therefore, $3000 for every $100,000 over $250,000 he makes. And if a plumber is profiting over $250,000, he's doing pretty well.

Ann C   October 16th, 2008 3:11 pm ET

Joe the plumber…how convenient. He sees Obama lurking in his neighborhood…he confronts him….he compares him to Sammy Davis Jr….Joe is a republican…could Joe be a plant….oh no Joe say it ain't so!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Alaska hillbilly   October 16th, 2008 3:11 pm ET

If this joe will have a net profit after having paid all his expenses by the end of his fiscal year which is more than 250.000 $ then he should vote Republican. Otherwise he would be stupid to do so.

Neva   October 16th, 2008 3:11 pm ET

Does it take this long for John McCain to decide that he's not George
Bush? He must be running scared now, as he should be.

INDIANA MAMA FOR OBAMA   October 16th, 2008 3:10 pm ET

GOTTA LOV'EM…

OBAMA 08

FAYE, NV   October 16th, 2008 3:10 pm ET

Obama/Biden is attempting to take us out of this mess, while Johnny boy still wants to dig a ditch for us.

It is safe to say the Obama camp is the true reformers.

Obama

Frank G   October 16th, 2008 3:10 pm ET

Regarding "I am not President Bush"
McCain is correct, he's not George Bush.
Amazingly, he is worse.

Donna nut watcher   October 16th, 2008 3:10 pm ET

Your all nuts!
I am soory to tell you all this but I run a small business and it is very easy to gross over 250,000. My take home on that is only 30,000.
If I have to pay more taxes then i will lay of 2 of my workers and do more work myself.
If Obama wants to tax small business then that = more unemployment .
If he wants to increases taxes on corporations then more will pull up stakes and go over seas.
If he wants to increase taxes on investing then the stocks will con't to stay down.
If he wants to increases taxes on capital gains 35% of you will have less money.
Yet some how he has you all convinced that he will be better for America!
Well your all nuts!

David Newport, OR   October 16th, 2008 3:10 pm ET

Time for Obama to keep the pressure on. McCain has no policy. Give McCain a rope and let himself and his running mate hang themselves. Focus on the issues and what you will do in the first 30 days to start getting this country back to stable footing.

No Hillary = No Obama   October 16th, 2008 3:09 pm ET

Obama is riding the coat-tails of the failed Bush Presidency. This is typical lawyer strategy. Opportunism to benefit your cause, which in this case, is himself. Obama seems very much a lawyer first. He gets by on what ever works, turns it into his advantage and lays back while reaping the rewards, in this case, the sheep that follow him, bleating his praises. Obama is slick, but he just doesn't impress as a very hard worker.

Brian   October 16th, 2008 3:09 pm ET

I love that Obama got on his horse and rode out and met this attack head on.

The fact is that few plumbers, and more importantly few small businesses, make more than $250,000/year. If they do, they shouldn't be in the concerns of these politicians seeking the White House. We've had enough privileged rich people reap the benefits of a lax president.

Now is the time for regular Americans, the ones on whose backs our economy rides, to be privileged. We are the ones building this country and without our labor, the ideas and wealth of the rich would be meaningless.

Florence, SC   October 16th, 2008 3:09 pm ET

McCain doesn't look like Bush but they sure act alike. Bush and McCain both support many issues that trouble this world and economy. We American needs to stop focusing on distractions that happened over 40 years ago and focus on new actual issues that plague or economy and personal finances. People are having real life problems TODAY. If the governemnt thought that Ayers was and still is a threat to our freedom and American security i'm quite sure he wouldnt be a free man. There is a time to be distracted but this is a time that requires our dedicated focus. A misplaced vote could means the difference of staying in this eceonomic disaster long term or moving forward for positive change. McCain is not Bush but nor is Mccain change.

Republican Voting OBAMA   October 16th, 2008 3:08 pm ET

Voting Barack Obama 08/12

EG   October 16th, 2008 3:08 pm ET

Waiting on CNN to expose the latest stunt.
Local media has outed Joe the "Plumber" as a registered republican with ties to Phil Gramm and the Keatings.
He's also not a licensed plumber and has no immediate plans to actually a) buy a business b) get anywhere near $250,000 – last year he made $40,000. Please don't brush this under the rug, CNN…everyone else is starting to expose it, and you should be leading the journalistic effort shed light on this gimmick.

e.j.mohammed   October 16th, 2008 3:08 pm ET

Forget about Joe the plumber he could be just another diversion. What about all the bakers, meat cutters, secretaries, the real regular Joe's that are trying to make ends meet! I hope Obama supporters will follow through and not be complaisant because the Democratic ticket is in the lead! Please no McCain/Palin no way, no how!!
E.J.in Tacoma

paulie_nj   October 16th, 2008 3:08 pm ET

Obama camp gives $832,000 to ACORN, then says they didn't know Acorn was involved in voter fraud yet if you check the record, Acorn has had a history of voter fraud in 2002, 2004 and 2006 elections. So would you trust your tax dollars in the hands of someone who doesn't even do background checking on the organizations that he is donating money to? Bad judgement = bad for America.

ACT   October 16th, 2008 3:07 pm ET

VOTE FOR OBAMA on NOV 4th 08
This is a referendum on the future of our nation

MY FRIENDS, DEMS, & INDIPENDENTS
This is not about RACE
This is not about GENDER
This is not about AGE

This is not a popularity contest
This is not a beauty contest

This is not about elephants
Nor about donkeys
This election is about tomorrow
Our nation's destiny in the 21st century

Emma   October 16th, 2008 3:06 pm ET

Kick McCain's as-! That was his threat to you last night at the debate in New York……………….I wonder whose as- was kicked the farthest!

sandy   October 16th, 2008 3:05 pm ET

Joe the Plumber is nothing more than another gimmick by the Republicans! Go Obama/Biden

Eve   October 16th, 2008 3:04 pm ET

Joe the Plumber's wife and 18-year-old son are voting for Barack Obama, so that gives you idea on who will win.

political junkie   October 16th, 2008 3:04 pm ET

Enough already with 'Joe the Plumber' – his 15minutes are up -

He had an agenda and is irrelevant – don't waste any more
time on him…

(is he even registered to vote?? did anyone check??)

Tony   October 16th, 2008 3:02 pm ET

"Obama said last night’s debated highlighted McCain’s “attack strategy,” and said the remaining 19 days of the general election campaign should focus on the “genuine differences” between the two candidates."

Agreed, and that's what McCain did last night. McCain highlighted that he's for the American Dream and that you're a Socialist, Obama. I don't want your greedy hands on my money, thank you. People who don't pay taxes in the first place shouldn't get government checks which is exactly what your plan calls for. And it's gonna take more than the top 5%'s hiked taxes to back all those checks.

Mike   October 16th, 2008 3:02 pm ET

Hey Seattle Sue….

I am sure you are still here reading this post….so let me explain to you that Joe the plumber isn't filling out a 1040 for his business

tulsa   October 16th, 2008 3:02 pm ET

You go Pres.!
We've got your back.

Hey, I heard John McCain is running an add targeting President Bush…… Heck, if he wanted to run against President Bush, he should have run 4 years ago!

Barack the VOTE!

GERRI   October 16th, 2008 3:01 pm ET

who is the real Joe the Plumber? does anyone really care? My understanding he isn't a licensed plumber and doesn"t make $250,000.00 a year.

Oh by the way ..where is Josephine the plumber?

Sweetie   October 16th, 2008 3:01 pm ET

The truth is any small business owner would know more about running this country then Obama!

Doesn't that SCARE the HECK out of you?

This is the real JOKE on America, that we are even considering this guy!

McCain/Palin-08

Erik   October 16th, 2008 3:01 pm ET

"Joe the Successful Businessman" is more like it. What an absurd McCainism, repeated over two dozen times during last nights debate. Can you say Panderer-in-Chief?debate.

Independent   October 16th, 2008 3:00 pm ET

You John McCain always says that; " I know how to do (insert anything from war to bringing back jesus)" and he fails to tell anyone how he plans to do this things.

karlo   October 16th, 2008 3:00 pm ET

Republicans are all a like, corporations will always run this country as long as they are in power.

independent in Texas   October 16th, 2008 3:00 pm ET

I'm still "wondering" why McCain "called" Hillary for advice ???????
whatever, didnt sway "any" of the independent voters" parties held here in Texas…and there were many…and ALL but 2 still voting McCain ! enjoy those "2″ votes McCain ! all the rest, ( hundreds) going to OBAMA !!!!
TEXAS FOR OBAMA….

Election Watcher   October 16th, 2008 2:59 pm ET

When Obama lies repeatedly about his tax increases and cuts, lies about the fact that HE HAS VOTED WITH BUSH 60% OF THE TIME, and even his VP choice can't remember when FDR was president, you have to question the validity of the Democratic ticket.
"O"bama
"O" = zero

Independent for Obama   October 16th, 2008 2:59 pm ET

Here I go again, going to donate to Obama. bring it home Mr. President. Already voted for you.

Spencer/Commonwealth of Virginia   October 16th, 2008 2:58 pm ET

Joe the Plumber is not even registered to vote. Anyway, I believe Sen. Obama addresses Joe's tax problem in the debate last night.

OBAMA/BIDEN 08

Democrat 4 Life   October 16th, 2008 2:58 pm ET

If Kerry was quick in his response like Obama, he would have won. Keep it up BO.

susie   October 16th, 2008 2:57 pm ET

Tell the truth, Obama, about your long relationship with ACORN, including your volunteer time.

Gen. John Abizaid   October 16th, 2008 2:57 pm ET

mccain did not defined this man and woman, Gen. John Abizaid,ia am arab man .. the top U.S. commander in iraq.. mccan did not go far enough to reject hate.. …
As American Service Men and Women, they have taken the oath to protect and defend the Constitution of the United States of America against all enemies foreign and domestic. They are prepared to sacrifice their lives for the protection of freedom for all Americans.

God Bless America

JOE THE PLUMBER IS RICH AT $250,000 COMPARED TO MY $28,000 INCOME!   October 16th, 2008 2:57 pm ET

So, what exactly was Joe complaining about?

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