CNN

Diane Fanning is a bigot who is a disgrace to her church. WWJD? I guess he would not shake Obama's hand and yell at him. Good example hate monger.

I'm glad he took the time to discuss her concerns. It saddens me when I hear about people's misconceptions due to the media or other comments, especially false ones or those taken out of context.

That just goes to show all americans that quite racisim still exist. As a member of an church organization myself, i've learned to put aside differences to achive a common goal. Thats what she should have done. Give him the same respect as you would john mccain, as the common goal here is to elect a president fairly.

Wow. So instead of using the word 'terrorist' now people are using the phrase 'socialist' wow. So miss Fanning is not as 'not as nice' as some of them. hmmmmm. maybe she's just more ignorant than some of them. Sad,very sad.

You have to feel sorry for someone like Ms. Fanning. She has simply been brainwashed by all the misinformation being fed to uninformed Americans, by the McCain campaign.

I like barbeque. But i love obama.

Fanning's reaction to Obama is truly sad. People like Fanning are victims of the Palins and Limbaughs of this world. It is perfectly alright to disagree with Obama on the issues but the name calling and deliberate misinformation aimed at the least discerning voters shows a complete lack of integrity. McCain and Palin have finally pulled me from my "undecided" status. I will cast my vote for Obama; the first time I haven't supported my party in 30 years. While I don't agree with him 100%, he at least has a forward looking vision for this country; not more of the same devisive rhetoric that appeals to our prejudices and fears and keeps us stagnant. I expected more from McCain. He couldn't deliver. We need a leader.

A little more then two week and we finally do not need to listen to that McCain/Palin crap anymore. Sure, those making (not necessarily earning) 250.000 +or more a year will feel pretty bad these days. Not that they are facing hunger or would need to sell their house. But imagine, you cannot buy the newest fancy, and in most cases non american car every year anymore. Horrible ! I totally support Sen. Obama's plans adn looking forward to four years where this country can finally recover from previous mistakes. By the way, this is not called socialism, happens in europe every other election. Sen. McCain, please do yourself and America a favor and read about facts before you talk about things you apparently don't understand. Unless you want to call most countries in europe "socialists". Your way of making good friends and allies ?

Diane Fanning is not a part of the America I love-the America I know realizes that all of us are descended from immigrants to this country except for the Native Americans. She also is not like the Christians I know-they are not small minded and full of animosity and hate. She needs to remember that Jesus was a community organizer and Pontius Pilate was a governor.

I think that we can disagree without being disagreeable. If a presidential candidate (no matter what your party affiliation is) asks for your time to listen to you about your concerns of the country please be respectful. Even if you decide you don't want to talk to him/her.

McCains and the RNC realize that Sen Obama is no pushover, that's why they have resorted to Atwater/Rove style politics. The American people deserve better. If Americans are ready for change it's Sen Obama. If that phone should ring at 3 AM, do you want an erratic , Mr Magoo running around trying to find it, or do you want a cool, wise, confident Barack Obama with phone in hand, answering with poise, while possessing a steady hand and confident demeanor?
O/B/08

Well, this is what McCain has wrought. Hate begets hate, lies beget lies.

We need a commander in chief who respect all fifty states and territory. With out taxes we cannot full fill our obliagation as leader of the free world.without..... equal and balance funds.

Wow. This is out of hand.

There's a (poorly) homemade yard sign a block down from my house that reads, "OBAMA COMMUNISM '08"

I blame the internet.

I am afraid of Obama being a socialist. I worked my whole life to get ahead and now have tons of student loans to show for it. Others my age chose not to work, found a way to get on disability and under Obama will get free health care. Why would anyone choose to work under an Obama regime?

mccain palin you can't have it both ways, what was the bailout? what was the stimulious checks? you two just don't make any sense. VOTE OBAMA-BIDEN

Wake up people! The country has already started to turn to socialism under George W. Bush. Look at our banking system bail out, a collective ownership. "Socialists mainly share the belief that capitalism by nature concentrates power and wealth among a small segment of society that controls capital, and creates an unequal society." This started with Bush and when Obama becomes president he will be blamed for creating the socialist movement the was started by all the conservative.

McCain will cut taxes for EVERYONE and cut wasteful government spending to support it.

Obama's problem is that he is targeting small business owners and businesses making over 250k. Jack up their taxes and it won't matter what your tax bracket is because those employers will have to start firing people.

He just doesn't get it. And yes this is a socialistic plan. Take from those that have and give to those that need regardless of whether they deserve it or not. Karl Marx 101.

When you liberals lose your jobs under an Obama tax hike on small businesses, don't come crying to Scott L. It will be your own fault.

Oh and by the way, when 250k doesn't cut it to fund his programs, let's see how fast a Democratic controlled congress cuts 250k down to 150k and how fast that bill makes it to a Democratic president. Suckers...remember the checks you got this summer Democrats thought 150k meant you were rich...don't forget that.

Some people are just lambs being led by McFear!

Obama is not a socialist.

Either candidate can settle the tax issue by backing a simple 15%-20% flat sales tax and do away with payroll taxes and the IRS.

that's a bit strange she can't shake his hand but she can talk to him about issues of her concern. i've never heard of not touching a socialist? real americans should not lose sleep over taxes, how else are we suppose to get out of debt. how about we not raise taxes, stay in iraq, and not invest in education. we already have big government only problem is instead of working for us it's working against us. wake up!

Better watch out MS Fanning the last person to make an utter fool of themselves in front of reporters due to ignorance ended up being characterized as Crazy McCain lady on Saturday Night live.

That Woman Has Been Watching Too Many Mccain Commercials!

It's outbursts like these that bring some truth to John Lewis' comments. All supporters are proud of their candidates, and hearing the other candidate's point-of-view may erk them, but when it's taken as far as using HATEFUL words used against the other can be a dangerous thing. Both of these candidates have done good for this country... OUR COUNTRY!

Thank you Senator Obama, for staying so poised and showing true leadership – even during these ugly times!

I can't wait to see how the Obama fanatics embrace paying for other's health care while their own coverage (if they are currently covered) go up and up while benefits go down and down. People will be striving to get off of health plans in order to get the free socialist medicine. I actually am in favor of socialized medicine, but not for just some people. It has to be an all or nothing offering or it will create extreme social havoc.

Anyone who believes all the lies and exaggerations that come out of McCain's mouth is an idiot. Pure and simple. I also think they need to look up what socialism is. Besides, not that Obama is a socialist by any far stretch but how great has capitalism been working for us people?

the repubs made him mad. they better think twice,before they lie again.

Hey McCain let me spell it out for you: Socialists want everyone to be forced to have the exact same things. Obama wants everyone to have the same opportunities.

Barack Obama is the best hope this country and the world have. What I don't understand is why somebody might be pro-life and pro-war at the same time. War is wrong, where thousands of people die and more hate develops. Another thing I don't understand is how John McCain will balance the budget if like President Bush doesn't include in the budget the 10 Billion dollars spent in Iraq every month.

I know is going to be hard to many people to accept a win of Barack Obama on November 4, but things will be amazing and everybody will be happy even the rich and powerful.

I do believe that I will trust the intelligence of Colin Powell over the GOP brainwashed Ms. Fanning.

....I wonder what she meant by "I know how some of 'em think."

just another mcfailin clown looking for her 30 seconds of fame.

I was surprised by Obama's reply to the socialist thing...very deft.
He's got McCain down cold. He's learned how to parry anything that nunbskull throws at him now.

Stick a fork in it....

75% of the people throwing the word "socialist" at Obama (and yes, that includes both sides of the Republican presidential ticket) just don't understand what socialism really is. If you want an example of socialism, the current bailout of the financial sector is socialism - the government will be partly owner of the banks, the medium by which financial instruments are distributed. If I recall, both McCain and Obama supported this. So I guess they are both socialists.

Absent that, there is nothing in Obama's tax plans that are socialist. The tax code always redistributes wealth, or shares the wealth, as Obama said. It's just that Republicans want to share your wealth with businesses, and Obama wants to share your wealth with actual people. Since the vast majority of people during the bailout were wondering when Main Street would get bailed out, I'm thinking they will like Obama's plan better than McCain's plan.

Obama's proposed budget $3.6 Trillion will fund it by increasing taxes on people earning OVER $250,000.00
McCain's Proposed budget $ 5 Trillion will fund it by increasing eveyone taxes and give tax right offs to wealth poeple that lose money on the stock market. of couse most Americans that lost money in their 401K plans wouldn't be elligable for the tax break unless they cash out their 401k and take the 48% penalty

Ah yes ... There is always a "Fanning" in every audience. Brainwashed by the GOP smears and dumb enough to believe them.

America is known to be a civilized sosiety with wonderfully created people; it is also known as the greatest country in the universe. How then can that great country be doing what cannot be done in the 'forth' world? McCain should tell Americans what his plans for them is; what he will do for them if elected and not attack, attack attack his political rival.........The World is supposed to learn from the way you do some of your THINGS including dealing with your opponents during and after political campaigns; all we are seeing now is how to attack, attack and fooling the Americans with this Plumber Theory. Is this how America will remain what it used to be –WORLD LEADER?
An educated and intelligent society like America should have a very intelligent and educated leader. We are begining to wonder why you don't have catwalk girls and footballers in the Senate or the lower House. Going about to achieve political points and attacking the opponents and fooling the people with the like of 'Joe The Plumber' make the world laugh and question your leadership.
Rome was not built in a day, if one has no 'real' experience and he has experienced people around him and in his cabinet, such person will achieve better than the one that talk of experience all the time. All we hear now is either war war war or Joe the Plumber.
It is believed generally that very old people sometime behaves as children, is that the type of leadership the LEADER should have? I don't know how true it is that McCain is using this tax thing to protect his wife from paying more tax; if that is the case, why not tell Americans the truth? We are watching America.
John McCain should say to the Americans......This is what l will do for you if you elect me to the White House as his opponent has been doing. Let us bring good reasoning to this campaign now.

I'm tired of hearing McCain talk about redistribution of wealth. We have seen over the past several years the redistribution of over 600 billion dollars from the lowest 96% of our population to the highest 4%. If that is not the redistribution of wealth, then I don't know what is. It's time to correct the failures of Republican rule. It's time admit that there is too much greed in the system for trickle down economics to work in real life.

I think a lot of Americans confuse socialism with communism. I just don't get why it's such a feared word. We have lots of social programs in Canada, like healthcare, and it works out fine.

1 month ago, I had a friend that got shot in the leg in a hunting accident. He has been in the hospital ever since. He had a rod put in his leg to replace his femur which was shattered, and after a number of surgeries it looks like he won't need his leg amputated. For the first two weeks in the hospital we was provided with 24-7 care. There was always a nurse in his room.

How much is this going to cost him?......ZERO dollars. How much does he pay for health insurance? Zero. It's all free.

Socialism sucks I guess. I'd rather pay thousands of dollars for health insurance.

this lady needs to check herself quick. all this encouragement of anger toward barack is ridiculous! mccain and palin do not deserve the white house. there was a time i would have been ok with mccain but that was before all this nonsense. he is running a dirty campaign and i'm just ready to push the button for obama/biden!

One cannot do without people like Fanning – her attitude is not christ-like. It is sad to observe this kind of attitude from people who claim to be christians when they are not. They abound everywhere. "By their deeds ye shall know them". You can be in disagreement yet be courteous and respectful. Fanning lack this character.

We have to thank mcCain and Palin for the new attitude of hate and intolerance in America.

David Brooks declared Sarah Palin as "represent[ing] a fatal cancer to the Republican Party."

I think Sarah Palin represnts a fatal cancer to the USA and to the world.

Dianne Fannig surely is related to Gayle Quinnell.

"irrelevance."

hate now is the biggest reason we are where we are today. the future is the will of us to be able to see it and deal with it now!

Fanning is part of a church group ????????????????
Sure woder what her pastor's been teaching .........
If Obama is a socialist, then McCain is surely a fascist.....or maybe a nazi.........

Keep screaming "Socialist, Socialist" while your house goes into foreclosure and your 401K shrinks into relevance.

It cracks me up when I see poor folks driving beat up cars and sporting McCain/Palin stickers.

Talk about now knowing what side your bread is buttered on.

Obama can spin it all he wants, he wants to make this a socialist country.

McCain has been running a Socialist State for the WEALTHY!

I wish he were a socialist. But if all I can get is Democrat, I'll take it!

HA! At least she held to her own beliefs and ideas, but I hope she isn't too angry when he's President! PS Ms. Fanning – you're beloved Bush has done more to bolster SOCIALISM than any other President in the history of the USA. Maybe if he and his friends hadn't screwed up the country so badly we wouldn't have witnesses the death of capitalism and American values during our lifetime

We are on the fast boat to Socialism with the GOP buying insurance companies, running banks, increased wealth distribution from taxpayers to Wall Street, suppressing those that disagree with us

Does John McCain realize that most small businesses do not earn $250,000 per year in today's economy. I have seen small to medium businesses going out of business rapidly during the last 4 years. The majority of people I know who have jobs are working for large corporations or government . What is John McCain talking about?

Did I just read that the woman who wouldn't shake Barack Obama's hand was in a church group? I'm sure she claims to be a good Christian. Her words and actions showed otherwise. Shame on her!

You may not agree with his policies and are voting against him, Diane, but at the very least he deserves a little respect. The man is running for the President of the United States and he makes time to come to your little corner of North Carolina to meet with you and others in the restaurant and that is how you treat him? Real great group of supporters McCain has created.

In this country, Americans shake each others' hand even when we disagree. It does not reflect well on this "church group" that this woman is so rude.

Typical ignorance. Afraid of what they do not know and do not aspire to understand.

The accusation of "Socialism" is not really funny. But I have to laugh every time I hear a new attack. Every time McCain*Palin smears, I donate.

Sad we still have such hate/racism in this country and McCain/? and the republicans are doing all they can to encourage this behavior.

People we need to get our country back for the good and Obama/Biden is the way.

Please vote and in such #s that there will be no doubt who the winner is.

Let us not leave this election up to any court.

Well it seems Diane Fanning must be asleep when she is attending church. To refuse a handshake is an insult. Fanning is clearly operating from a prejudiced mindset. I wonder how many brownie points she earned with the Big Dude upstairs with her little display of ignorance and racism.

Congratulations, John McCain. You've successfully created a bunch of nuts who are even afraid or unwilling to shake someone's hand. That coupled with the Minnesota Republican Senator who, on Hardball, said that we should investigate all Democrats in the Senate about being unAmerican – and all of this just reinforces how we need someone else in the Whitehouse.

It scares me that we still have a major bunch of idiots in the US like this woman at the diner. People who make decisions based on whether they think the 'rapture' will occur in their lifetime. People who love hunting so much they go out of their way to reward other hunters who kill predator animals. People who base their foreign policy experience on "seeing" Russia and visiting Canada.

Geez, guys – c'mon!

Ayres a washed up terrorist? McCain is a washed up politician..

Good for you. Obama. I think these labels are tossed around like a salad without the oil dressing.

socialist ... another buzzword straight out of the republican playbook.

expected but not accepted.

btw. bailout deal = nationalizing (aka socializing) economic debt

republicans, the new socialist.

This lady is a prime example of being influenced I'm sure by the likes
of...FOX....HANNITY...LIMBAUGH....you know the McCain faithful followers. I doubt she even understands what Sen Obama policies really are, but she and lots more like her don't need to as soon as they get the word from FOX etc etc....that's good enough for them!!!!
All I can say is thank heavens there are a lot more open minded people than there are small minded across this country.....people need to think about the situation they find themselves in now.....high cost of groceries...high gas....low wages.....no health care....job loss etc etc.
If they weigh up all of that and then think who has been in power for the past 8 years.....and then want to vote them back in.....they really get what they deserve.
Wake up America you have a chance of change now and we desperately need that....get rid of this useless Republican party and get some new fresh ideas and new hope for this country.
Make a sensbile choice and vote for Sen Obama in Nov.

A vote for Obama supports WEALTH RE-DISTRIBUTION.

The result of that can be viewed today in ZIMBABWE with the RE-DISTRIBUTION of that country's AGRICULTURAL WEALTH that led to the COLLAPSE of its ECONOMIC, JUDICIAL, EDUCATIONAL , HEALTH and ENERGY PROGRAMS.

This is a fundamental belief of the theology Wright ministered to his flock at TUCC. The "unapologetic obligation to ....."

Concerning Fanning in the church group in North Carolia-I am a devout Catholic,ex-marine,pro life, pro gun , and white ,and I would be proud to shake his hand. Obama 08-

I be willing to bet my last dollar Ms. Fanning do not know the meaning of Socialist because if she did she would not call Sen. Obama one.
It is so sad we can pick up all the bad thing someone tell us. She just came from church and call a man who is running for the president of the USA a communist. She pick that up from John Mccain. I pray to God if Sen. Obama get to be president he do so good and bring this county to things that only God can help him do. We are so quick to judge other.

Obama is kidding himself and playing with words.
He shouldn't criticize Mccain for labeling the proposal.......many many others....many pundits......have voiced similar concerns......I hear it often.

well is "socialist" a new word to avoid saying "black man"???
It seems so sometimes, as if some jerks, as Mrs. Dumb-Fanning thinks, would prefer to scream the bad and disgusting "n" word but scream "socialist" instead, to avoid some racial heat... I don't know

I just know, this dumb, uneducated woman will have to get used to the "socialist", "that one", "the one", or how you wanna call him.

FOR ME it's Barack H. Obama and the 44th POTUS!!!!

Obama/Biden in a landslide!

This is the reason why mccain is gonna lose because of ignorant old white racist people like fanning who don't want to shake Obama hands and the media is catching stuff like this is only turning away real smart GOP's and undecided.

The bailout is a form of socialism.
Obama is not original.
But I do remember that more Democrats voted for the bailout than Republicans did in the House.
Rich and socialized or poor and socialized?
Why can't we create more to share rather than fighting for a piece of the same pie?

That woman should vote for the party that has created the largest government in the U.S. history with completely reckless deficit spending and is in the process of nationalizing many of our country's biggest companies.

I guess she already is voting socialist.

" ... when Obama entered the restaurant a woman screamed “Socialist, socialist, socialist – get out of here!” The woman, 54 year-old Diane Fanning was admonished by other diners and one woman yelled back “at least he’s not a war-monger.”

I'd be willing to BET that Ms Fanning couldn't DEFINE socialism if her life depended upon it, OR acknowledge the benefits she receives from it NOW, today, in the USA.

"Soshulized med'cine" would mean my orthopedic surgeon would no longer be able to charge $5K for a fifteen-minute procedure, or make $37 MILLION a year.

"Soshulized" housing would mean that I wouldn't have an 82-year-old widow living in my living room and sleeping on my couch because she got evicted from her apartment for non-payment of (outrageous) rent.

Food, clothing, healthcare, education, and shelter are a RIGHT ... NOT a privilege of the wealthy. If that's "soshulizm", BRING IT ON!

Bud Clark
San Diego CA USA

The more I watch Obama, the more amazed I am at how he handles difficult situations like this. But he has experience I am sure; all of his life living in the middle, not white not black and no doubt has faced much rejection in his life. He spans the generations, the racial divide and will bring this country and the world together, I am confident. I am a 68 year old white woman and I could see early on who Obama was as a person and that he had the qualities to lead our great nation.

Any more doubt in anyones mind that John McSlime is doing nothing but try to instill fear hatred and fear in the American People. I would doubt this woman even knows what a socialist is. But I would bet a lot of people know what a Fascist is. Wouldn't you John?

Even in a landslide, there will be millions who didn't vote for you and won't like you no matter what. But Obama will win by a bigger margin than George Bush in 2004, wait and see.

Call it socialism, call it redistribution of wealth...personally I'll take it over business as usual with the greedy warmongers who have stole my money for the last 8 years. I'm proud to be called a liberal, it's been too long that the word has been denegrated. Look up where the word derives from and be proud to wear the label!

And I've no doubt Obama holds no grudge for her small-mindedness. She may not deserve him, but she'd going to get him:
President Barack Obama!

I don't see Obama's tax plan as socialist. That's pretty much the dumbest thing I've ever heard. Some people are so easily deceived. Obama's tax plan will benefit most Americans as opposed to McCain's tax plan, which will continue to benefit the wealthy who are no longer paying there fair share in taxes. This type of misinformation is the reason I'm so against McCain for president. McCain doesn't tell the truth, he's given up any decency he may have once had, and he deserves to lose because of it.

This woman from a church reminds me of Rev. MLK Jr.'s letter from a Birmingham Jail to the pastors who asked him to not be so radical and immmediate in his expectations for racial integration. He wrote back with these scathing remarks "More and more I feel the people of ill will have used their time more effectively than have the people of good will. We will have to repent, the people of this generation, not merely for the hateful words and actions of the bad people but for the appalling silence of the good people." This woman was wrong in her words but where were the good people to correct her in her misguided understanding? We can't wait for Senators Obama or Biden to correct every misconception people have. We, good people can't be silent. We must step up to the plate and take a stand for right, even if it means in our churches and families. It is wrong to think that God only cares about and wants to bless those like ourselves. God wants us to love others and part of loving is caring enough to correct them when they err in mind, heart or soul.

Like, it's not 'redistribution of weath' to give $700 billion dollars to a bunch of insurance and banking moguls who don't even have the sense to call off a multi-million-dollar party after being bailed out?

Sometimes it seems like the easiest way to find out what kind of dishonest scheme the Republicans are up to, is to look at their most recent accusation against the Democrats.

Navigating US political discourse these days is like trying to walk around inside the landscape of a Dali painting. Everything is distorted.

Fanning showed her ignorance by shouting Socialist and refusing to shake Obama's hand. She is only hurting herself by acting this way.

How sad that a grown women harbors so much hatred in her heart for an American hero such as Barack Obama. This is truly reflective of the nature of the far right and the McCain-Palin mantra.

Obama's policies are socialist. Remember, the military for all rights and purposes is not a democracy but is very "socialistic" in nature. The helthcare is socialistic as are other aspects of the military. Powell is a great man but very limited in scope and view.

I am voting mccain because everytime I think that obama will be president it sends cold chill down my back. Mccain has more experience i think he will be a better president and so does my 21 year old son.

Fanning calls herself a christian? She should be ashamed of herself. I guess Fanning must be one of those people who make 250thousand . I'm ashamed for her.

I'll take Socialism over Facism any day.

The fact is, tax policy always has and aways be about re-distribution. The government takes your money, and dishes it out to Bridges that go nowhere.

Obama simply wants to even the score a bit.

What do you call it when you take from the poor and give to the rich. That's what has happened the last 8 years.

What are the Republican base so worried about? From where I'm sitting, George Bush looks like the most Socialist president we've had in over 50 years.

Obama said that "spreading the wealth around" is a good thing. That is income redistribution plain and simple. That IS the basic tenent of socialism.

The only question now is at what level does Obama intend to target for this government grab of the individuals retirement, college and family savings. My guess is that it is going to be A LOT LESS than $250,000.

this is what McCain/Palins campaign brings out of people.

Tell them lies enough and the simple-minded will believe it.

Give them the belief that they are not alone with their vapid mentality and they will yell it out. When they realize they look and sound ignorant, they shut up.

Thank God some of the people in the joint spoke up for Obama.

McCain, is this what you want your legacy to be?

15 minutes of fame. Maybe she wants to be "Dianne the diner".

I'm not voting for McCain, but if he were to ever extend his hand to me...I would shake it! There is no need to be rude and cruel to someone who wants to serve our country and take upon themselves the great burden of leadership. So, this particular woman would not shake his hand, but there are millions who very much wish they could trade places with her and shake Obama's hand.

No matter what group Obama may coem into contact with, it is apparent that though sad, racism is still alive and well in our nation. I believe it will take a few more generations before the majority of that sickness is stamped out. For some folks, it'll always be there.

That's hitting back? Hardly.
Fact is: increasing taxes on one group to increase welfare payments to another group which pays NO income taxes, and increasing the already large portion of the populace that pays zero income taxes at all IS socialistic!
It is not a "tax cut" to increase direct cash welfare payments to non-tax payers – that is a welfare increase, and it is – as Obama said he wants to do – spreading the wealth around.
Socialism is socialism, and Obama's proposed policies clearly move in that direction – whether people like Powell or Buffet endorse him or not is irrelevant to that fact.

What say we all work and keep what we earn. That sounds fair.

. . . The republicans don't seem to call it socialist when they take the
money and run(700 billion dollars). Socialist is just a code word that
the republicans use to make others feel guilty about reaping the
benefits of their OWN tax dollars, while they have no problem fleeciing
the taxpayers.

Democrats 08.

Socialism is working for the society and it is not bad at all. The Americans equate Socialism to Communism this is where they go wrong.
So wake up and smell the coffee. We are working for the American Social brotherhood and not republican Jingoism.

Obama will be called names as long as you have people who can not adapt to change. First he was terrorist, then a Muslim and a ARAB. Now he is a socialist. What's next?

Some people are nicer than others and there are some that just want to live the way they have always lived. Hateful and UNHAPPY!!! It's easy to call a name it's harder to change. Well America it's time for change and let's pray for the evil of the world.

The negative people can call him what they want. I choose on Nov 5th to call him Mr. President.

GO OBAMA/BIDEN...2008

"according to the pool report when Obama entered the restaurant a woman screamed “Socialist, socialist, socialist – get out of here!”

Many decades ago, they would have called Obama by another name. A democrat would have shook hand with McCain, but the Rupublicans !! They think they own this country.

I'm amazed at the ignorance of some of these Americans.
I think some 'small town folks' are still stuck in those times of the 'red scare' and relate anything with the word socialist or communist = bad.

So what?
Communist China is going to overtake the US as the economic giant in a couple of years.

Get an education. Honestly, voting should be given to those with a college education. At least they'll have a mind of their own to think. But I guess Sarah Palin got one and look how much that's done for her.

With regards, your kind neighbour from the north. (urging you to vote Obama).

PS. Who is dumb enough to think Obama is an arab, jew or terrorist?

She really wanted to call him something else. Obama show these people what you are made of. 4 more years of the same bs...we'll all be in the unemployment and welfare lines.

At least Obama is man enough to stand tall and talk to this bigot. I obviously would not have. Maybe she was afraid his black would rub off on her, she's a yellow belly bigot. CNN, more hateful crap than this has been posted, all against Obama, I expect to see this post and I expect that it will not be "awaiting moderation".

If majority of people in this nation are not making $250,000 a year, although that defines the actual workforce, what is so wrong with spreading the wealth to these folks?

The Republicans would like to spread moral virtues or shove them down everyone's throat. But they are NOT willing to go with the golden moral rules:
-feed the poor; cloth the homeless; give shelter to those who are left in the cold; and "give to Caesar what is Caesar's and to God what is God's."

I am kinda confused. What is socialistic about Obama's tax plan? Is it because rich people are paying a higher percentage in taxes? Then does that mean Bush's tax plan is also socialistic? I mean, we have always had tax brackets and richer people always paid higher.

This is another example of the type of division, lies and fear mongering that McCain fosters. It's beyond despicable.

Maggie, VT

You can't blame her for what the McCain has spread around. At least she spoke to him about her concerns.

This women more then likely does not even know what the word
socialist mean just like Palin Half Bake Alaskan does not know what
she is talking about! Just another kool aid follower!!! SAD!!!!!!

Hey go easy on her it's hard for old people to learn that the world has changed. Not take the crap the GOP is trying to get people to buy. But it's up to her friends and family to get her to see the light. So we can hope that she will one day be open for change!

I'm hopeful!

Rasisam is worse than any other troule we have at the moment. Obviously there are still some that are not able to understand serousnes of the crisis . They are oblivious to fact that republican policies and ways of dealing with the issues is bringing us to the edge of functioning !!!!!!!!!!!!!! They still have concerns about race diferencesSince Mc Insane worked so hard to make it central issue of his campain.

She was with a church group that's why our youth don't want to go to church because of people like her. My church encourages people to greet each other! I cant believe it, because of people like her we lose our conservative values .Thanks Mccain / Palin for your ugly campaign . History will remember you for many many years regardless of the November outcome!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

You have won, McCain blew it.

McCain will have to do some serious looking at how he ran the dirtiest campaign of record.

Divine Mind is ever on time

This is our time

Powered by the people.

Ms. Fanning probably has an IQ of 60.

Wow, it appears that Diane Fanning slept through the parts of church where it teaches how to treat your fellow man, regardless if you agree with him or not. She is to be pitied.

We are about to hear more of the yelling and name calling as it get's closer to the election. The true color of people will be manifested, because whether we want to agree or not RACE is a factor and it's only a matter of time before people will be bold enough in front of the camera's, reporters, new papers that we will see the hearts of some that are racists and refuse to vote for Obama because of the color of his skin. What a sad time it is, but at the end of the day NO WEAPON FORMED AGAINST OBAMA WILL PROSPER. People embrace the CHANGE and get on board...ITS A NEW DAY and Obama/Biden will be our next president for the next 8 years.

Socialist is not what they really call him. Racism is very real in this country and will not go away. Quit judging people by the color of their skin and trying to stamp other words on them for what you really think of them.

Ignorance is what is happening in the Republican party. GET OVER IT!!! Barack will win this election.

socialist, elitist, liberalist - what ever the name you call him, I would say he is the best we have got..
Go Obama / Biden.
President Obama is good for the country and the world.

Ms. Fanning may not agree with Obama's policies, but why would that prevent her from shaking his hand? She must be afraid that something might rub off on her! Hmmm!

Freedom of speech is great and moreso when it's your own ideas!
It is a shame that Politics in America has caused average Americans to be brain-washed by Politicians instead of each and every one empowering him/herself by doing research on the candidates to see where they stand. This is why education is even more important in America today. Of course, I understand that the majority of us are logical and will apply better judgement come Nov 4th. Please people go to both candidates website and find out for yourslef what they are about and which one will be better for America first and foremost and then for you.

we need more obama's in the world.
who will make a difference in this world.

thanks for your wonderful vision.

i am changed.

obama

I like this post,– so, enjoy

It's sad. The McCain camp is going to have to discredit a significant member of their own party.

But this is exactly what makes Powell respected… he speaks his mind. Which is ironic because he rose to his highest under an administration that was Draconian in quelling any signs of differing opinions. Chaney, Rumsfeld and their bureaucratic minions almost stiflied Powell to death at the State Department.

Alas, the realities of party patronage will probably never make this happen… but could you just imagine a likeness of diplomatic and foreign policy juggernauts like Biden, Powell, Armitage and other realists representing expertise and views from a wide range of opinions sitting at the principals table advising an intellectually astute and studious president like Obama?

One can dream.

The truth is most of the people shouting socialist have no clue what it mean. This is supposed to be a capitalist economy, right? Why then is George Bush buying equity stakes in banks? Where in the capitalist doctrine is that written?

OMG! I can't believe people are so clueless. Our biggest allies are democratic-socialistic countries (Canada, England, all of Scandinavia, indeed most of Western Europe!). So what the hell is the problem with these countries? Their happiness index ratings are much higher than ours. They live longer, they work less, they have more benefits and their currency beats the tar out of ours. It's not communism! Silly old lady probably hasn't been out of her backyard!

And no the Democratic Party platform never has gone that far left. Jimminy Crickets! With all the campaign mudslinging going around.....Baby killer.....muslim....terrorist......I'm just waiting for them to call Obama a cannibal. Perhaps they will save that for the last few days of the campaign.

Then we'll all have every single demonizing slur that you could possibly have on a candidate in one campaign. It's just sad that folks fall for this sort of nonsense.

The far right is so scared and yet Obama retains his grace. You don't see him going around calling all these freaks bigoted fascists!

funny the mccain people cant think of anything else to bring up,,, so they are hittin the bottom of the barrel,,,,, thats how desperate they are,,,,, but they dont hava chance,, vote early ,,,VOTE OBAMA/BIDEN 08 and BEYOND

It's people like the one in that diner screaming "Socialist" why its so important for everyone to get out and vote. I am hopeful that people like that are in the minority in this country, but we need strong turnout to make that possible.

People like that are blind sheep. I bet if McCain said Obama was a devil worshiper, the woman would have said "Don't you dare drink my blood you Satan lover!"

I am hopeful there are enough smart people in NC and the rest of the country to cancel ignornat people like that out.

Ironically, this woman probably would get a bigger tax cut under Obama.

Sounds like Ms Fanning is a hypocrite....goes to church but fails to put into practice what is taught there as well as being just rude.

Note that she is with a church group and yet is still true to her hateful self. Should makes many second guess their idea of Christianity when you see ignorant and judgmental Christians like this. To actually be sitting with members of your religion and then be down right rude and hateful to a man because he wants to help 95% of his country is unpatriotic, immoral and very evil.

Thats some of McWar/Palin lingo lies they keep spreading well sooner than later we will be past them .
Its no surprise how many bottom feeder people feed on their lies .
McWar should be ashamed of himself but instead he lies about his lies.

Obama /Biden all the way.

She is an example of the hateful atmosphere that McCain and Palin are creating within the republican party. She does not represent the good nature folks from North Carolina.

Obama/Biden 2008

McCain is just old, and apparently so is this woman, Diane Fanning. I wonder what she would have said if W had walked into the restaurant. Perhaps she would have said "Hello President Socialism. Have you purchased in new banks today". How many more ill informed talk radio listeners is he going to come in contact with? Really, I didn't know that Limbaugh and Hannity had such big followings. Are they picking this stuff up at the rallies or just on Fox News?

Refusing to shake a U.S. Senators hand is just down right direspectful. Giving everyone a fair chance isn't socialism, it American. Minimum wage is at an all time low compared to the cost of living in America, I think its past time to give the workers who bhuild America a little extra in their paychecks and refunds.

McCain is a socialist too then because he voted for the bailout.

The Obama/Biden campaign will continue to take the high road, and leave the divisiveness to the McCain/Palin campaign.

LOL HOW PATHETIC

THIS IS COMING FROM A CHURCH MEMBER.....LOL WHAT CHURCH DOES THAT LADY PRACTICE...THE RACISM CHURCH OR THE HATE CHURCH...IT'S FUNNY HOW CONSERVATIVES CLAIM THE LORD'S NAME BUT REFUSE TO TAKE THE SAME STEPS THE LORD TOOK...IF YOU BELIEVE THAT GOD CREATED MEN AND YOU CAN'T SHAKE A MAN'S HAND THEN YOU DON'T REALLY LOVE WHAT GOD LOVES....

REPUBLICANS, YOU GUYS SHOWED YOUR TRUE COLORS

She is the one put America in the last

Ah, the truth hurts doesn't it Mr. Obama? You ARE a socialist! You want to take from the rich, who have worked their butts off, and give to those who chose not to work. You are a disaster waiting to happen for the American taxpayer.

Would McCain would have tried to shake the hand of someone who just yelled at him? I think not.

The "socialist" thing is absolute nonsense. More desperation. Would Colin Powell endorse a socialist?

One of socialism's traits seen in Venezuala etc. is buying the poor peoples vote just before elections ! Guess what we have here !!

McCain has a vision for a truly ugly America and he recruited Palin to help share it with us.

McCain and Palin's "kitchen sink" strategy is still hollow and lame. Their campaign has been void of information of what they offer the voters on our country's problems. All McCain and Palin have done is run around criticizing Obama. Obama has been steady with his message and reliable with his proposals for fixing problems. These are core issues to the voter. To endure most of this election season listening to McCain's nonsense is now totally insulting. Our economy is in the tank, the jobs are evaporating, incomes are shrinking, we invented the automobile and the American auto industry is on the brink of extinction, our armed forces are fighting and dying in 2 miserably unpopular wars and all McCain offers is calling Obama names. Names!

McCain is a disgrace. He has proven he lacks depth and understanding. So much for an elder statesman.

Obama-Biden 2008

Reagan was the Right-wing empty suit, and now Obama is the Left-wing empty suit. The Pop Culture pendulum swings both ways.

I find it amazing that someone would be rude enough to yell, "socialist, socialist, get out of here" to Obama and refuse to shake his hand. If he is a socialist, then so is McCain and all the others who voted for the bailout. Face it, the policies of a free market esposed by the Republican Party for the last 8 years are what have gotten the US into this current economic mess with the war in Iraq only helping worsen the situation. Frankly at this point, I am ready for a change in our country and fear that with the Republicans in the White House it would only get worse. If you don't want a socialistic society, then go live off the grid, because everytime you drive on a road, call the police to your home, or send your child off to school, you are reaping the benefits of a socialistic government. As to Fanning refusing to shake his hand, I ask her to go back and look at the Bible and see what Jesus says about love thy neighbor.

Obama is the only real choice for the presidency. Voting otherwise would mean you're insane, as most right-wing racist conservatives are.

Obama '08/'12

The garbage coming out of the McCain/Palin camp about & towards Obama is absolutely downright evil .

Basic Physics – Like is attracted to Like

Negativity is attracted to Negativity

Make sure that your voting information is in order, then get out and vote.

Don't give Republicans the satisfaction of your complacency !

Change is'nt scary, it's growth ....my American friends taught me this !

Blessings, Peace & Joy To Everyone

Great job Obama! I like your intelligence

There was a time in this country when most of federal income tax was paid by the wealthy. In 1913 the federal income tax law fell primarily on the most affluent, which represented 3% of the population. In addition, the wealthiest 3% were not allowed to claim exemptions or deductions and had to pay on earned and unearned income. In 1940, The Ratification of The Federal Tax Ammendmant indicated at that time that 80% of wage earners were well above the national average income. These people included bankers, lawyers, capitalists, manufacturers, merchants, and corporate officials. This group who reported the greatest income paid 90% of the federal income tax. Through the years things have changed, but now the tax laws have swung completely to the other side. Some of the wealthiest of individuals is paying a far lower % of taxes in there wages. Its time to return to parity where the average American who has no opportunity to the tax credits for the wealthy are charged an equal percentage in taxes. This is what McCain calls socialism... bringing fairness back to the federal income tax amendment.

"Socialist, socialist, socialist" - as snotty as it may seem, that woman is an uneducated dolt, bellowing the word like some bloodthirsty bystander at one of the Salem witch trials. Though the US has the world's most hyper-capitalist economy, it has always been a mixed one: it's just that the socialistic policies, excepting unemployment insurance & Social Security, are stacked in favor of business and the military. We subsidize everything for the military (from no-bid contracts to the PX), underwrite small businesses often unwisely (where else can one fail again and again and again), and give tax breaks, incentives, and bailouts to big business on a scale unprecedented since Augustan Rome. The moment we give a "handout" to a poor person, the rich scream "socialism," while pocketing their tax break and subsidies thank you very much.

Good for Obama. He showed some real emotion today appearing to be getting sick and tired of the McCain and Palin lies.

McCain and Palin are both crazy and getting crazier by the minute. The few fans they still have are complete losers and idiots. I could care less about Palin, but it is sad to see a true American hero like McCain make such a stupid fool of himself – this is what history will remember. But, I can't believe that anyone acting like he is could have even had much dignity.

America's history is not of people ordering 'socialists' out of the restaurant, so one wonders of her true motives.

McCain's new attack – "socialism" – simply shows how desperate his campaign really is. Eight years ago, I actually said I could vote for a Republican if it was John McCain. Unfortunately, today's John McCain is not the same man. I wish this were not so – I truly admired him then – but he appears to have sold out every conviction he ever had just to get elected. The term maverick no longer applies to him – conformist is more suited. The Republican party says jump, he says how high? It's sad.

...unless they praise Obama?

And Diane Fanning is what's wrong with this country, problems exacerbated by the McCain/Palin campaign. No one says she has to vote for Obama, but decent people don't scream things at other people and refuse to shake their hands. What a horribly disgusting woman she is.

Almighty Everlasting Father YAHWEH bless you Senator
Barack OBAMA t0 be our next US President. HalleluYAH !!!

If Obama wants to spread the wealth he should give some of that $150M he recieved for campaign contributions last month and give it to MCCains campaign. If he objects he then should know how the taxpayers feel about his tax plans.

OMG. I can't believe that woman in the diner screaming the socialist thing. She sounds like loony tunes to me. I guess there are always going to be people like that wherever you go. Kudos to the other diners admonishing her. I believe what Senator Obama says about cutting taxes to 95 percent of American workers. As usual, John McCain doesn't get it and twists and distorts the truth. He is really a desperate man and he is a war monger!!! The Democrats will take back the White House and then John McCain and his caribou barbie can go home. I will be voting for Obama/Biden. Come on people, let's vote early if you can.

What can you say? Some things and some people never change. Poor lady. I bet she ran home and scrubbed her body thinking she may have picked up germs from Obama being in the restaurant. I bet she is an avid watcher of Fox News.

If you don't agree with his policies, that fine and don't vote for him, but I think Barack Obama, the Junior United States Senator from Illinois, has earned our respect. That is shameful to not at least shake his hand.

I work in Fayetteville NC and I would like to apologize for the actions of Mrs Fanning. It is ashame that Sen. Obama was not shown Southern Hospitality. AFTER Sen. Obama becomes Prez Obama she can sit in her house, with heat she can afford, while going to a job that was newly formed and complain all she wants.

OBAMA/BIDEN 08

It is about time Obama answered this charge. I have said repeatedly, there is nothing in Obama's economic plans to suggest a socialist style economic policy. Tax cuts do not equate to a socialist style economy when you consider the basis of socialism is the government owning the means of production.

This is just another desperate attempt by the McCain/Palin campaign to win this election by any means necessary. McCain calls himself a man of honor, I see no honor in his tactics, they are deceitful, shameful and without merit or honor.

"Socialist!" is just more fear mongering among the Republicans...they've got nothing else...but the parroting of Republican slander by shallow thinkers is another indication of the type of voter the Republican party is seeking.

In A Store In My Home Town A Black Woman Pulled Up With An Obama Sticker On Her Bumper And This White Lady Asked Her Where Did She Get It From And The Black Lady Said I Order It A While Back And Another White Lady Heard Their Conversation And She Went Off She Said You Blacks Are Voting Because He Is Black Look At Powell I Have Lost My Respect For Him, She Said I Hope You People Are Happy And Everybody White & Black Stood To Her And Start Chanting Obama JOBS BABY JOBS And She Took Off We All Left Because We Thought She Was Coming Back With A Shot Gun.
THIS IS GETTING CRAZY!!!!!!!!!!!

Ms. Fanning, refusing to touch Obama's hand.....shows that she would allow the Black to speak to her, but she was unwillingly to let the black touch her.,....its b/c she didnt want the Black to rub off on her.

Is anyone else out there in tv land noticing that the more negativity that comes Obama's way...the more he brushes his shoulder off.

I hate to say this, but I will..........White Americans, Black people have supported you all since the founding of this great nation of our., we have slaved, died, worked, and voted for you throughout America's history., why when for the first time, a Black man is in the running to hold the highest office in the land., we are only supporting him b/c he is Black?
In case many of you "typical white people" havent noticed., Blacks have always 95% of the time voted for Democrats.

First Barack Obama was inexperienced, then unknown, untested, questionable, foreign, dangerous, terrorist, socialist, racist( yes some people have accused a man with a white mother and black father as being racist) anti-american, terrorist sympathizer...i could go on and on.....

Typical white people., those Obama was talking about., that believe these things about him, that dont realize that when Obama gets elected their lives will be better, make me ashamed to be an American.

So, McCain keeps pushing how he preached government control on Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac and in the recent bailout and he uses the word "Socialist" for someone else?

I will say, however, that governments with greater social programs, including health care, have a higher standard of living for the citizens, Canada being one of them.

OBAMA personally earns more than 250,000 dollars a month, in a year he earns more than 4 million dollars a year, how can you call such a person a socialist? And for McCain's information, A socialist wont tax the rich in order to give it to the needy, Socialism is diferent, Bush and McCain has nationalise US banks does that make them socialists. Socialism is a complete Programme, not a reform. Obama is proposing a reform of the tax system like Bush and McCain nationalising US banks.

Can't win everyone no matter how hard sometimes you try,
some folks have a different agenda. I wonder what they talked about
anyway? It would be hard to talk to someone who doesn't like you.
Oh well, the race must go on.

I find it upsetting that people use the term "socialist" like a weapon. Our government is a mixture of capitalist and socialist ideals, and they work together to make a balanced but successful society. It is even more absurd to yell "socialist" when we have agreed to take the taxpayers money (nearly $1 trillion) to bail out banks, but we yell at a politician who wants to return something to most taxpayers in the form of a tax break that the wealthy would fund. Very hypocritical. The government constantly redistributes wealth. The wealthy only complain when it works against them.

This is the type of person that McCain and Palin are trying to brainwash. It's a pity there are people so ignorant this day and age.

Why cant every American own 10 houses like McCain?

Diane Fanning...typical rude, ignorant republican.

Obama is my eyes is a socialist, taxing people who make over $250,000 and give their hard earned taxes to people who have never paid taxes, that is a form of WELFARE.

So wait...she wasn't willing to shake his hand, but he was still willing to talk to her?? This man needs to be our president.

Obama 08

obama STOP with that "95% of American workers" – this is a LIE
Those people do NOT even pay Federal Taxes – SO – Where – EXACTLY is this money coming from?

Sounds like WELFARE with a spin.

Go OBAMA, McCain is out of touch, two respectable people endorsed you. Powell and buffet these are the men i look on to.

Early voting is the way to go.

Registered Republican voted Obama/Biden 08

Does that mean Colin Powell is "palin around with socialists"?

Give me a break. John McCain is a shell of his former self. The John McCain of 2000 would not support the McCain/Palin ticket of 08.

His strategy has consolidated his base but how will he attract independents?

I don't think its the fact that she thinks he is a "Socialist", Its more that he was Black Im sure.

Hmm, someone in a church group heckling someone and telling them to "get out"... Jesus Christ would be proud of that im sure...
Republicans are the real socialists, in fact, i'll say communists.
they want 95% of use to do the real work in this country, to bust our rear ends working for the better part of our lives for as low as wages as they can make us accept while they do nothing but rake in the cash. If it wasnt for OUR work they would have NOTHING. they want it so they can be carried on our shoulders, so they can rip off OUR hard work while they get obscene paychecks and and safety nets when they run the companies WE built into the ground. that is exactly what communists do, let all of us suffer while they ride on our backs. more for the powers that be and the rest of us can eat cake. republicans want to end social programs that feed CHILDREN as well as people who can't work do to disablities. they want to force unwed teenagers to have babies they can't support, and don't care where they end up. republicans love to create poverty so they can have more, more, more, they love to create crime, they love more people in need, and they love corruption. enough is enough!

For some people there is no hope. Diane Fanning is obviously an idiot and ill manner to boot. That is the type of person who would rather drown than accept a lifeline from a black man. Sad, but society is full of morons like her.

Once again, McCain shows that he relies on rallying the uneducated and/or uninformed in his push for the White House. His decision to run on a platform of ignorance sickens me.

obama you are a FRAUD!! Your "plan" is called WELFARE – with a new name. These people do NOT even pay income tax – we ALL pay SS tax – so.... now "those people" will pay ZERO – AND get a FREE Check. This is WELFARE – and WHO will pay SS????????

VOTE SMART – VOTE McCain – we can TRUST him

Was Fanning dressed like the Church Lady from SNL?

If the Republicans want to see socialism in action, they need to look no further than the $700 Billion bailout of financial institutions that Hank Paulson pushed through.

Sadly like most McCain – Palin supporters including McCain and Palin, Ms. Fanning has no clear idea exactly what socialism is, except that the Republicans have now made it a word they can boo in chorus. I guess Socialism is the new "Communism".

Meanwhile do you think Ms. Fanning or any other McCain – Palin supporters can articulate McCain's plan for the economy? This includes McCain himself.

By the way, very powerful endorsement from Colin Powell this morning, I recommend watching it to be reminded what this political race has been about so far.

Cleary more support for Obama than McCain in that diner.

Kudos to Ms. Fanning and Joe the plumer, two people who remember that one of our greatest rights in the US is freedom of speech. I agree with Ms Fanning's opinion that Obama is a Socialist, and if he graces a diner I'm in or comes to my driveway seeking support, I'll be glad to tell him personally.

Ah, so the woman who yelled "Socialist, get out of here," was part of a church group. Nice. Doesn't sound very Christian to me.

Early voting is the way to go.

Registered Republican "voted" Obama/Biden 08.

Under Bush the Republicans have practically Nationalized the Banks. McBush wants the Government to own our Home Mortgages. The Republicans have become more Marxixt than Communist China.

another example of the fear and hate the mcsain camp have created. how awful to create such thoughts in others mind

That Diane Fanning is probably just racist.

Obama/Biden '08!

Amazing! She was shouting at Sen. Obama, would not even shake his hand?? What is this the 60's? How disrespectful to a United States Senator and likely President. If she is saved, she is completely out of order and apparently does not know the principles of love that the Bible teaches. I hope North Carolina goes blue.

Obama-Biden 08

Another McCain Crazy Lady!!!!

Dude! You are most definitely a socialist! When I was growing up, my teachers, parents, grandparents, the media and just about any other adult I came in contact with, would tell me the following: "This is a great contry and if you work hard and you can become whatever you want." What a wonderful concept! What a great country we live in!! It's a shame that we lost that drive somewhere along the way. Why do some people just sit on their butts and hold their hands out?

When McCain called Obama a "celebrity", an "elitist" it didnt work so he turned to phrases like "unpatriotic", that didnt stick either so he took his chances by calling Obama non-christian, or a muslim, that failed miserably and his people in GOP rallies called Obama a terrorist. McCain was quite positive it will stick in peoples mind but that backlashed big time so his last resort is calling Obama a "socialist".
Mean McCain will have to think hard and fast because time is running out and things arent looking great for him.

I just heard Pat Buchannan on the Chris Stewart show ask "would Powell have endorsed Obama if he were a white democrat?" I was thoroughly shocked with that kind of question from Pat and it totally floored the panel. He is a clear example of why we need Obama in command of the U.S. There are some people who actually think like Pat! Now that is a scary but sad reality.

Well, Obama is a Socialist, by taxing the wealthy and giving to those that don't pay ANY taxes, that's Socialism,

I don't understand how SOME PEOPLE can be saying Barack Obama is a Socialist and will take our country down the path to Socialism... It seems to me the John McCain/George Bush team have already made that happen.... I do believe Senator Obama, with much help, will bring our country back to where it is suppose to be.. Leading the world....

VOTE...........OBAMA/BIDEN...................VOTE.........OBAMA/BIDEN.........

WE LOVE YA JOE......

I find it extremely sad that John McCain has moved to the politics of fear, rather the poltics of fact. This lady, who we note is a part of a church group, could not bring herself to shake hands with Obama, essentially because she has listened to the negative inferences of the McCain group, and clearly she knows little about the issues.
Attacking each other's views on the issues is perfectly acceptable and a way of political life. But, as a one-time independant, I'm have been totally turned off by the use of personal attack and ugly inferences that by the McCain campaign; and that, if nothing else, has swayed my vote to Mr. Obama.

Calling Obama a Socialist is just another way to divide people. It seems that is all the McCain/Palin camp seems able to do REALLY WELL!!

I guess we might all differ in our political opinions but the truth is that we need change and Barck and Joe gives that change we need

Diane Fanning = Another Narrow Minded Republican

I hope people see that the anger in the campaign is not healthy. Most people stop silly name calling when the leave the playground around middle school. I think we could have a grown-up debate if we tried.

great, another fascist mccain supporter.

The woman's reaction is clearly a product of the fear sown in by the McCain campaign. The last thing America needs in this troubled economic times is to have fears and doubts on each other. Good thing that Sen. Obama still reaches out to someone rejecting him. This shows a character of leadership and confidence. God bless you sir and may He continually give you strength on this challenging journey towards the presidency of the United States of America and I wish for your victory in this coming election.

I love how this woman (redneck) can be out with her church group, yell socialist (unprovoked), and be so rude as to not shake Obama's hand, and still call herself a Christian. That church she goes to needs to go over the fundamentals with her again. In fact, there is a large dose of so called conservatives, who supposedly stand on morality and Christianity, and behave so badly. Maybe you need to learn the definition of Christian, and while you are at it the definition of socialist. Anyway, "Bless your heart."

Nothing but fear from the right! And since the right engineered the nationalistic bank bailout that Bush created, then maybe the free market isnt working so well either! Guess our dear friends on the right are a little socialist too!

Fanning is either not too bright or a die hard republican. Now I am sure we will see a McCain commercial about her!
It is such a shame that some people are so uneducated that they are suckers for McCains' slime tactics.
I admire Barack so much for going into the lions den. McCain would never have this type of interaction with voters. He only wants to go into vetted settings were he already knows the people are for him.
Now we will have Diane the bigot!

The ugliness of the Republican smear machine is alive and well. Nice to see that the scare tactics are not working.

As a republican, I find McCain's campaign offensive. Calling Obama a socialist is just blatant stupidity. Why is corporate welfare and the largess of international aid considered good for business/country but taking care of working americans considered socialism? Fact of the matter is that W and the republicans have been acting like socialists. why is spreading americas wealth overseas and wall street not considered socialism as it is redistributing wealth?

Can Obama ask for two better endorsements than Powell and Warren Buffet? Their characters are beyond repproach in my opinion. How can anyone take what palin says seriously? She is a joke. I am voting for Barack without any reservations.

Unfortunately there are way too many people like Fanning out there.

SHEEP; who let whatever McCain and Palin say go in one ear then come straight out of their mouths, without the benefit of stopping at a brain in between.

On election day, we can only hope that more shepherds go to the polls than sheep.

I have only one question for 54 year-old Diane Fanning, "What Would Jesus Do?" People like Ms. Fanning are the reason that Christians are openly mocked and ridiculed by atheists like Bill Maher. Being kind doesn't cost a cent and it is what asked of all Christians. This alleged church-going woman is spiritually bankrupt. I will pray for her and others like her.

Colin Powell's endorsement statement includes that he feels Obama will make an exceptional president – that is as good as it gets, folks. No matter what the McCain/Palin camp wants to throw at Obama, they're showing their desperation.

What's more socialist than the Republicans taking from the poor for the last 8 years and giving to the rrich?

I'm going to get an Obama tax hike, and I don't mind. I'm so grateful to this country for giving the oppotunity to make money. My wife and I have all that we need to provide for ourselves and help our children. We're also fortunate enough to be able to help donate to various causes. At the same time, I see the taxes on my daughter and her husband take a terrible toll. Although the percentages may seem low, they take enough away to create real problems. I'm disgusted that people who make over $250,000 a year would cry about a higher rate places not on their base income - but just on the amount over $250,000. I don't call that socialism, I call that fairness. What does McCain call giving tax breaks to seniors? Communism?
How many houses and cars do he and his rich friends need. Even Warren Buffet thinks weatlhy people are undertaxed.

It's sad that people cannot express themselves without calling names. This is what the McCain campaign has instilled in his rallys. Instead of talking about the issues. He incites people to call names and attack! This is why the United States is so hated around the world. People of intelligence can agree to disagree without resorting to name calling!

I'm just proud of this man.

Though, I voted for Hillary during the primaries.

today, like most other people, democrats, indipendents and republicans he has won my endorsement.

He tries to reach out to everybody even if he does not agrees with your principles and beliefs.

These are some to the qualities we want in a good leader.

Period!

It's funny: – All but a very, very, few McCain supporters and voters, would be financially worse off under a McCain administration, should it come, than under an Obama White House. The wide support that there still is for John McCain is therefore nothing less than amazing.

I can understand people being conservative, although I myself firmly believe that religion, (extreme) Christianity, or any other, has no place in politics: However; that conservatives, right-wingers, and anti-Democrats, are prepared to NOT vote for man who would be best for their lives, their country, and their wallets, is more than inexplicable.

If one adds to this the clear unsuitability of John McCain's personality for this very highest function, and his gross lack of honour and decency, then it just isn't feasible to vote for him, regardless of which persuasion one might adhere to.

If in spite of what we all know about John McCain; his inner-anger, his lack of self-control, his hatefulness, his age problems, and his 72+ age itself; there are those amongst us who still feel he would be a responsible choice for President, then we must seriously consider the person who would take over as President immediately, without an election, should John McCain be taken seriously ill, or die: The V.P. candidate, Mrs. Palin.

This is very relevant indeed in view of John McCain's ripe age, and the fact that neither his father nor his grandfather lived to be even 72 years old, which is John McCain's age already now! His 5 or 6 years of imprisonment and torture in Vietnam won't have improved his health either.
After a possible first-term, John McCain would be 76+ years old; after a second term he would be 80+ years old: Think about this everybody, Republicans, Democrats and Independents.

I won't add to what nearly everybody already knows about Mrs. Palin's severely restricted knowledge, education level, degree of literacy, and intellect.

In my church, we aren't taught to scream and yell at people we disagree with. I doubt Ms. Fanning understands what socialism is, and how these proposals would affect her. You can disagree with someone without being ugly, and not shaking their hand is just disrepectful.

It's just polite to shake someones hand even if you disagree with them. Then again this is the same kind of person who would probably yell "kill him". This is the type of person who supports the McCain/Palin ticket. Just plain RUDE!!!!

If Palin or McCain came and extended their hand for me to shake, I would. It's just being polite.

The Republicans are going back to the fifties and resurrecting Nixon and Joe McCarthy. Such tactics cost them Colin Powell's vote.

Obama's proposals do not fall into ANY textbook definition of "socialism" but hey, it's a good Republican propaganda term in the best ignorant name-calling tradition. Gets the low-info voters all riled up.

This idiot Fanning belongs to a CHURCH group yet refuses to shake the hand of a presidential nominee?!?! She needs to go read her bible right away and have her pastor pray over her. She may call it socialism but what it is, is racism. The racism and willful misinformation is disgusting for McShame and his so called bigotted base.

Obama/Biden 08

Mr. Obama’s wealth redistribution plan is clearly Socialist. The fact the Mr. Buffet and Mr. Powell support this plan does not make it any less Socialist, perhaps they believe, as Mr. Obama does, that Socialism is the answer. It is sad that Mr. Obama has been allowed to mislead the American public but calling his plan anything less than Socialism does not change the facts.

Fanning is what is wrong with this country. there are too many people who refuses to accept those who don't agree with them. Obama is what is right with us becasue he isn't scared to met with someone who doesn't agree with him.

Betcha Ms. Fanning has no idea what the real meaning of socialism is.

Why giving large tax breaks and bailouts to the rich and corporations is always called by republicans "helping the country and the American people" and when the time comes to give help to THE REAL PEOPLE, then they call it "Socialism"?

I mean, dont regular joe six pack and joe the plumbers have the right to being helped by the government too?

Isn't the American government for the people?

Am I missing something in the republican argument?

"Socialist get out of here!" ???? That's straight out of the McCain/Palin ticket. Yet they bear no responsibility for the negativity? People are really losing their minds and seem unable to think for themselves. This is truly scary. The McCain/Palin ticket is taking this country where is doesn't need to go...

Fanning, you are not afraid of Obama being a Socialist, it's more like you are being prejudice! And furthermore, if you were with church members coming from church and call yourself a Christian, you should not have refused to shake the man's hand!

I can't stand McCain or the GOP party right now for what they have allowed to happen to our country and the rest of the world, but if he were coming around shaking hands at my table, I would not refuse to shake his hand. It is really sad that you call yourselves Christians, but are the furthest thing from it.

Obama/Biden 2008!!! Change we MUST have!!!!!!

5, 4, 3, 2, 1.….Waiting on McCain to appear in the news or in a speech stating he has contacted Diane Fanning, and wants her to come along with him and Palin on the campaign trail, she will be his next choose for his cabinet position. Someone acting in this manner ONLY proves that they have something in common with McCain, a BAD attitudes. Obama is about UNITING the American people. This is NOT the type of attitude problem we the majority of voters in OUR next President and Administration.................................we already HAD eight years of that!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Again....watch for McCain Fanning, he likes this type of action from those he and Palin calls the REAL American's and have believing their sad and drama lies about Obama.........

The aggression felt by McCain supports reflects that 'trickle down' ideolgy the Republicans endorse. McCain has employed tactics that are perpetuate fear among Americans, and to some degree it's working. As the aggression flows down from McCain, to Palin and onto their followers it transforms into hate, arrogance, and disunity with the rest of the country. To shake someone's hand is Western tradition to show respect, and acknowledgement to your commrade. For that old maid to refuse Obama's hand reflects the character of the McCain campaign. Supporters reflect the candidate.

HE COULD HAVE CALLED HER NARROWED MINDED AND DEVISIVE BUT HE CAN STICK TO THE ISSUES AND WE'LL DO THAT.

Diane Fanning's reaction is proof that McCain's robocalling and shameful campaign lies are reaching some of the voters. But I am encouraged-and proud-of the other diners in the restaurant that treated Obama with respect, even when she didn't.

I am an Obama supporter, but I would have proudly shook McCain's hand.

Wouldn't North Carolina look great in blue?

Ms. Fanning has obviously made up her mind about who she will vote for.............oh well, that is her loss. Obama is NOT a socialist;I repea NOT a socialist. For a single mother like myself who has to make decisions everyday on what is the most important bill to pay to prevent my services from discontinuing, I'm voting for Obama. He understands, He understands how difficult it is to make ends meet. I have to make decisions daily about what tot do and keep my house and worry about my kids college. I need a president who is thinking about the average Jane and Joe out there. McCain is notthe one togive me relief from life burdens. I work 60 hrs a week to make ends meet and still sacrifice some of the things my kids want, but I think GOD everyday because at least I have a job.

Heaven help us all if McCain's pandering to the ignorant succeeds with others like it did with Dianne Fanning . . . . . .

Did someone ask the old lady to define a socialist ? The top 1% in this country controls 20% of the money. McCain wants to give them a tax break !

I wonder how much money Ms. Fanning makes. My guess is she is she doesn't make over $200,000 as an individual or over $250,000 as a family, and as a result she would receive a tax cut by Obama. Poor Ms. Fanning, duped by Mr. McCain's rhetoric.

McCain will divide America. Obama will unite it.

Idiots have the right to be idiot and they will all vote for McCain-Palin...But they are just 40% of the contry. GO OBAMA GO.

Again....another religious fanatic...saying her "...church group.." – will her 'church group' be helping her make ends meet??

To scream out such a thing..it shows ignorance, rudeness and lack of manners to be sure. This woman is obviously a racist who doesn't know how to respect someone who may have different beliefs than she does. Obama isn't a socialist he simply cares about the little guy, unlike the Republican party whose doctrine is every guy out for himself. Frankly, it is about time Americans looked out for his brother instead of invading other countries to do what is "right" for them. Letting people in America go without food, shelter and healthcare. If America doesn't smarten up they will find themselves a third world country!

McCain is out of touch, out of ideas and running out of time....So, what does he do? He plays on the fears of the unlettered, the fears of the aged, the fears of the backward thinkers, and the fears of those who have already lost everything and are out of hope.....Shame on you John McCain! Shame on you! We need Obama and his steady leadership and his intelligence and his patience and understanding.

that's sad! no matter how you feel about Obama OR McCain, they are BOTH great servants of this country, and should be respected for their work as such! even though i support Obama, i still have a great deal of respect for McCain, for what he has given and done for our country, and i'd be honored to meet him in any capacity! this whole thing has gone too far! ENOUGH, people!!

look, i support Obama because i agree with his vision for the country, and i won't vote for McCain because i do not agree with the path he wants to take us... BUT THAT'S IT!!! these men both are good, AMERICAN's, and though they disagree on how to lead, they are both good and capable leaders!! ALL the nonsense coming from BOTH campaigns is just that- NONSENSE!! it's the way the political game is played, and when it's over, whomever the loser is will come out and congradulate the winner, and say that everything will be fine, because you know what... IT WILL BE FINE, NO MATTER WHO WINS!!!

i'm a 24 year old, mother of 2 boys (3 and 1), and my husband is taking over his parent's small business. so, if i can have such a mature attitude about this, WHY CAN'T YOU?!?!

What can we say when people are under big government-control, bid government spending, higher taxes, more regulations and well-fare for all who do not work? Barrack Obama will tax the rest of us to finance for well-fare for the rest, and when he cancels tax-cut program by George Bush we ALL automatically have to more taxes. He has a long record of flip-flops, and a thin resume, without real experiences or life-time government achievements. American people are smarter than that, we know how to think for ourselves, instead of listening to smooth-talks and empty promises.

However disrespectful that woman was, in my opinion i think she has no college degree or pretty illiterate.

I was at the Fayetteville rally. Lots of energy and Obama hit back hard on the socialism charges. There were probably 10,000+ there and many others couldn't get in because they had reached capacity. It certainlly wasn't anything like the 100,000 in St. Louis, but for this NC military town in what is normally solid Republican country it was a great sight to see. Glad I was there.

Obama/Biden 08

the kicker is that the socialist chanter is voting to have less money and less national security for herself by backing mccain. ignorance is bliss, i guess.

The woman can't even spell the word. She's just made because America might elect it's first African American for President and she can't handle it.

Kind of scary when a little old lady screams "socialist, socialist, socialist" at a candidate like Obama! Have people lost their senses? Are they actually buying all that nonsense put out by the McCain campaign? Are we as a nation really that easily manipulated by tired old labels like 'socialist' and typical Republican smear tactics? I don't get it. No one but a red-neck can run for office anymore......

well truth hurts. thats all I can say.

THE AMERICAN PUBLIC KNOW THE TRUTH! mccain is only making himself look old and so out of touch with reality in what he continues to spew at his rallies. bill clinton used this tax code and balanced the budget and at the same time made america stronger than we have been in years. obama is the new gereration that will lead us into a better life just like clinton did before the bush error!
mccain should suspend his campaign now and go back to arizonia and retire. sarah palin needs to go back to alaska and face her charges of abuse of power. if alaska is smart they will impeach palin before she can do more harm. hopefully her political days are over. 6 weeks of palin has done years of damage to all of us.

John mccain has proposed the most socialistic , redistribution of wealth program offered by either candidate . His proposal to buy deliquent mortgages at face and lower the amount due , places a burden on thise of us who acted prudently to pay for those who didnt ,
morover it encourages neighbors of those hetting this socialistic bailout to stop paying so that they can get some redistribution of wealth benifits .

I've been around a long time, and still am amazed at how folks like Fanning just believe what they hear. If anyone does the research other than on Fox News or soundbite ingestion, they'll see that Senator McCain & the Republican Right are so desparate to retain control that the Senator is allowing his party to employ the very same tactics via telephone, for instance, that they used on him. The calls are not as the senator said in an interview. They are incendiary – just as everything done by the republican party and its two candidates has been. Why in the world our country is filled with folk who view intellectual (synonym: intelligent) with suspicion is beyond me. Why in the world – in a nation alleged to be (and shouted that they are by the religious right) Christian – do we view helping the elderly (social security) and children (decent education that prepares them to do well in a 21st century world) and those least able to help themselves, as something NOT to do, when Jesus himself said, "Inasmuch as you do it to the least of these, you do it to me."

Talking Hate and Christianity out of te same mouth is being a Hypocrite – one of the few things Jesus was clear about not countenancing.

Let's get real. Let's have a discurse – not a free-for-all-hate fest. We have brains. Let's use them. Think. Do your own research.

fanning, barack is trying to help people like me and you, i'm a single mother with 2 kids that's in college and it's hard for me i have a mortgage, light bill, gas bill, ins and all these things and i need that tax cut and i'm sure that you need it to. and it is nothing wrong with being friendly even if you disagree with someone. don't make yourself look foolish. the bible said show yourself friendly.

That why McCain/Palin is losen because of the negative ads and anme calling........Obama/Biden raise over $150 million dollars now McCain say it a scandal McCain dont be jealous of Obama do you know more republican are now supporting Obama/Biden because of Colin Powell...........American Love Obama/Biden

Obama/Biden08/12

Ms. Fanning, did your pastor ever preach about the love of Christ? Barack Obama is a professed Christian.

Jesus stated, "by this they will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another."

Do you think that your behavior illustrates that love?

The Republicans had better be careful who they call a socialist. In many ways, McCain has been a socialist all his life. The mililtary, after all, is the most socialistic institutioin in America. The government gives all and takes all. Of course, it has to. In addition, as a Representative and a Senator he has had access to whatever he needed from the welfare state, all at taxpayer expense.

Poor Diane Fanning, having had her brain cleansed of her own free thoughts by McCain and his possie! I am stunned at the amount of ignorant people out there that believe that Obama is a Socialist! McCain's tactic of calling him a Muslim terrorist wasn't working for his campaign so now he has changed his battle plan and started labelling Obama a socialist! It is no wonder that Colin Powell, an American hero AND Republican now endorses Obama. Please wake up from this sleep that McCain and Palin have put you under America and Vote for the one that will comprehensively lead us out of this economic mess. Powell is proof that Obama has the ability and commitment to cross party lines and work together as a nation in fixing our problems. The time has come to shed our racists views and vote for the one that can solve our problems. Don't vote along party lines or skin color. Vote with your own mind!!!

How so unsouthern of them.

But how cool of Obama. Sort of talking with people with no preconditions.

He's going to be a great president.

McCain and Palin both slung the mud fast and furious. It came back and stuck on them good.
OBAMA*BIDEN

Proof, if we needed any more, that winning in 16 days is just the beginning of Obama's job – not the conclusion of it.

It will take a lot of time to get people like that over their fear, hatred, and ignorance.

If Obama is truly to be the transformational figure that Colin Powell believes him to be, he will need help from all of us.

We will all have to be willing to challenge the darker side of our national psyche whenever and where ever we encounter it. That goes for the "polite" folks all across America who suffer the presence of haters in their midst.

Looking at such idiots as this Diane Fanning, hopefully more normal voters will realize they better vote for Obama.

Obama/Biden 2008

THIS CRAZY WOMAN PROBABLY WANTS A MOVIE TO BE MADE AFTER HER JUST LIKE JOE THE PLUMBER. TYPICAL GOP (GAY OLD PARTY) THAT IS REALLY WHAT GOP STANDS FOR. TACTICS OF IMPLANTING PEOPLE AND IT ALWAYS BACKFIRES ON THEM. HECK I COULD DO A BETTER JOB AT IMPLANTING PEOPLE THAN MCSHAMES PEOPLE. WHO DOESN'T EVEN HAVE A LICENSE TO PRACTICE IN HIS TOWN NOR DOES HIS BOSS HAVE A BUSINESS LICENSE OR A LICENSE FOR HIMSELF TO PRACTICE PLUMBING. I HOPE THAT THE CITY GOES AFTER BOTH OF THEM. OH BY THE WAY I HOPE THAT THE COUNTY OR WHOMEVER JOE THE PLUMBER OWES TAXES TO WILL GO AFTER HIM. AFTER ALL HE IS DEPRIVEING MONEY NEEDED TO THE COUNTY OR WHOMEVER IT IS OWED TO TO PROVIDE SERVICES FOR HIS CITY IE THE POOR, SCHOOLS, ROAD REPAIR, THE LIST GOES ON AND ON. IF I WERE MCSHAME I WOULD CHECKED JOE THE PLUMBERS PAST BEFORE I WOULD HAVE EVEN MENTIONED HIS NAME AT THE DEBATE. GOD WHAT A SENILE OLD MAN AND A PATHETIC AIR HEAD FOR A RUNNING MATE. WE ARE REPUBLICANS THAT NEVER VOTED FOR THE VILLAGE IDIOT THAT IS IN THE WHITE HOUSE NOW AND WILL NOT VOTE FOR THE VILLAGE IDIOT THAT IS RUNNING ON THE REPUBLICAN BALLOT TO REPLACE HIM JIM HALL KANSAS CITY MISSOURI.

Well isn't that nice. How very mature of Miz Fanning. If you had any lingering questions about the type of campaign McCreep and his airhead sidekick are running, or the type of people/fanatics who follow him, I would say this pretty much sums it up. McCain should be ashamed, as should this narrow-minded petty little woman. God help us if McCain steals this election like the GOP always tries to do.

You can't give a tax break to 95% of Americans when 40% of Americans get back all of their taxes or more then they paid. You can't give a tax cut to someone who is already paying zero when it is all said and done.

Yep, people like Fanning are all around us, having their worst natures stoked by Republican name calling, lies and distortions. She is at fault for begin gullible and misinformed, and the right-wing is at fault for taking advantage of that kind of person.

I hope Fanning can come to grips with reality when Obama is president.

How come we cant live comments on Ticker,with controversial headlines on mccain? CNN,stop the bias.....I will stick to reuter,AP and BBC
Obama/Biden 08-012

What a mess the Republican ticket has become.

Cnn it would really help Obama if you showed a picture that didnt make him look like a former USSR leader...if there are any....

Obama needs to fight this attack hard!

McCain and Palin have tried about every dirty trick in the book....terrorist, socialist, fear, don't really know Obama. After everything I have heard and seen from McCain and Palin I doubt I'll ever vote for another Republican ever. Not even for dog-catcher.
GO OBAMA/BIDEN!!

Actually, it is not socialism. It is a play from Karl Roves Political playbook: "Call anyone who disagrees with us a Socialist." This has nothing to do with politics. It has everything to do with mudslinging.

It will be unfortunate, and the biggest upset of the century if Obama does not win this election. Clearly, only his policies make sense, his judgement is sound and he is the only one looking presidential from every angle If he does not win, one unfortunate theory will be proved, and that is that the vast majority of americans are racist at core, they may say they support Obama now but at the voting boot thier ugly mindset would take over them.I would then understand that Obama's success and achevement up til now been miraculous in a rascist society. Even if he does not win, the outcome of Mccain's policies would definitely prove costly for america and Obama's judgement would prove true.
Its just sad..in a country like America..

Oh my goodness. This surely reflects well on McCain supporters.

No Barack, no way! An independent.

It is SAD when Obama's very plan HELPS these uneducated racist rednecks that are voting for the other team. Pathetic indeed.

what happened to live & let live?? Can you not even give a handshake to a candidate even if you dont agree with them 100%.It is called civility.Guess she doesnt know what it means or cares to know.
the words socialist,communist are thrown around so casually by people who dont even bother to read up or are blisfully insular in their outlook.
I guess by now Obama man has learnt how to deal with nay-handshakers

spreading the wealth, sure sounds like socialism. taking from the rich and giving to the poor with out any requirement/ plan to help the poor better themselves, sure sounds like socialism.

Question: if obama and biden are so serious about spreading the wealth and helping the less advantaged, how come their charitable contributions are so low? I guess they only want to help the poor with my money and not thiers

Palin heard Obama was referred to as a socialist and thought it meant sociable.

What a sad commentary on a woman of her age to be so hate- filled that she could on Sunday be so un-Christian. I heard that clip on the news and was actually glad to hear someone in the crowd tell her to shut up. John McCain just lies and people repeat that stuff. Good gracious.

Quote from a SENSIBLE Republican:

Colin Powell on taxes: “Taxes are always a redistribution of money. Most of the taxes that are redistributed go back to those who paid them, in roads and airports and hospitals and schools. And taxes are necessary for the common good. And there is nothing wrong with examining what our tax structure is or who should be paying more, who should be paying less.

And for us to say that that makes you a socialist, I think is an unfortunate characterization that isn't accurate. I don't want my taxes raised. I don't want anybody else's taxes raised. But I also want to see our infrastructure fixed. I don't want to have a $12 trillion national debt, and I don't want to see an annual deficit that's over $500 billion heading toward a trillion. So, how do we deal with all of this?"
Enough said.

charming. the church lady from snl.

Mrs Fanning, vote how you please and be as critical as you want, that is what makes this country great. But in all your words and actions don't forget you are representing Christ.(who did he turn his back to?)

Going back to some right-wing issues for the coutry; when we are talking about things like prayer in public schools and the Ten Comandments in our courthouses. I really don't feel strongly about those issues. As far as the American constitution is concerned, I am not sure that the government should be legislating on spiritual issues affecting prayer and the like. I am more concerned about moral erosion that is going on in the United States. In other words, we shouldn't be so concerned abou the government legislating to have non-Christians acting like Christians. This is a difficult issue but we have to look at them one by one.

I find it telling that Ms. Fanning would speak to Senator Obama about issues but not shake his hand. I think she is being petty and disrepectful.

This "socialist" charge related to Senator Obama's "spread the wealth" comment is caused by a mischaracterization of those comments by Senator McCain and the media. If you listen to the entire comment it is clearly a refutation of "trickle down economics" and an endorsement of the idea that tax cuts for people of more modest means wlll mean better bottom lines for those small businesses whose net incomes are over 250K. Obama believes entrepreneurs will have more customers who can afford to hire them with the enaction of lower taxes as well as policies that help raise the net incomes of the less affluent.

It is no more socialist than President Bush's transfer of $5 trillon in debt to future generatons or Bush and Senator McCain's lack of effort to eliminate a graduated tax rate from the tax code.

Welcome to the 21st century, Fanning.

WE NEED TO REVITALIZE OUR EDUCATION SYSTEM.
America needs to stop being the world's paranoid survivalist with a scary amount of weapons, and start becoming the world's intellectual leader.
Being smart is hard and laudable not weak. No amount of force has accomplished what the work of the mind has accomplished throughout human history.
IN A CIVILIZED NATION AN IGNORANT WOMAN LIKE THAT SHOULD NOT EXIST.
She doesn't even know what socialism is.
Bush is as socialist as Obama!

McCain and Palin use the term socialism as if it were a bad thing. Does that mean helping those less able is bad and that prospering those already rich is good ?

Funny how people latch on to "labels" like "socialist" rather than find out the truth through discussion. Apparently the divisive campaign McCain is waging has an efffect on the close-minded. If this woman was a member of the church group, I wonder what she thinks about the teachings of Jesus Christ?

Perfect example of the "Pro-American" voters that McCain and Palin are soliciting. Question for the rest of you...Is this the kind of America you want your children growing up in? Is this what you want?

It is sad indeed when people try to distort the most basic facts in order to deny their people the opportunity of making informed choices. That is what we are fighting so hard to stop in the third world. The fact that you in America promote and celebrate such behavior in your politicians shows that our respect for your practice of democracy is profoundly misplaced. Your politics is no more abhorrent of corruption than ours you have just been fooling us – shame on you. How deeply ignorant and silly to maintain that capitalism implies the redistribution of tax dollars to the upwardly mobile (as a reward for enterprise McCain appears to say). So what enterprise has come out of Wall Street lately that McCain wants to reward with “tax cuts”? He is really out of touch and clearly will operate to promote many of the current policies under Bush. How blind can people get? Taking from the poor and giving to the rich is the current regime. Is McCain saying then that taxing the poor and redistributing the proceeds to the wealthy the capitalist standard? Get real America we all live on this planet – do not forget.

This simply highlights the temperment of John McCain's supporters. They are so angry and negative. McCain and Palin are certainly responsible for the division they've created. It is very distasteful that a "grown" woman refused to shake a presidential candidates hand, regardless of whom she plans to vote for or supports. I feel sorry for them and their ignorance.

So,the woman was coming from church,apparently to worship God.I'm a christian but that's not the God I worship,I mean her god must be one of hatred.And these are the 'christians'who are pointing fingers at moslems?

It's not just John McCain who says he's a socialist, a lot of people say it because it's true. Just because Buffet and Powell support him doesn't mean he's not a socialist; the proof is in the pudding. Look at his record; listen to his plans, well, the little we can get out of him.

Now that's what I call retail politics! Go O!

AND THIS WOMAN, JUST LEFT CHURCH!

OBAMA/BIDEN '08-'12

Now Obama is responsible for comments made by patrons of random restaurants. Are you implying widespread racism? Better to just say so. Otherwise this story is not worth bothering about– John McCain refused to shake Obama's hand on television.

And Obama still went over to Fanning to shake her hand. Maybe in 2012 she will have a different attitude.

Keep it going Obama. McCain is done.

Obama/Biden 2008/2012.

I am disapointed that Powell who has been Republican turn against endorsing MaCain, the only understanding I am getting from Powell is, he is more interested in endorsing Obama because of his personal reason? not for the sake of the security and the preservation of democracy, personally I do not believe Powell is chosing by putting the countries interest first, but for giving a chance to Obama on the race basis. So Powell realy can't take obama's side because obama is a fast talker and a good twister and flip floper, calculative and manipulative of American's young and old.
Obama has not proven himself in any of the security area, if Obama is elected, and he can realy fix the economy, then America will become a socialist, and inveded? so Mr. Powel the decent thing is to reverse your bad influence on the voters, America freedom and democracy before the conomy, but I am sure McCain and Sarah Paline would do a better job dealing with the economy in any event.

ah the rep. really have to be proud of them seleves seems mccain supports are quite as sharp as they appear to be . what does one expect when they are led with a guy that has only one oar in the water

I think it is just plain ignorance on her part. The McCain/Palin ticket along with the other negative people in their pool have used scare, fear and terrorist tactics and played on the less fortunate knowing. SHAME on them! It is time to help people to make intelligent decisions by using the FACTS. Such a negative party they have become. It's sad. They ALL should be ashamed for placing THEIR interests ahead of the people of Americia THEY WORK FOR! Not like "That One". Yes, "That One" is the new face of Americas diversity, and, Our Next President for whom I am shall proudly to support.

Long live McCARTHYISM! The Republicans are getting more pathetic every day. They are obviously panicking, as Nov. 4 gets closer and closer and the attack ads are not working. This dog just won`t hunt no more boys. You are not going to scare people into keeping you in power after 8 years of gross incompetance. America is putting its dark history of intolerance behind it; FINALLY! You are going to be shocked when you realize that Barack Obama is going to be good news for all Americans. At least those with an I.Q. over 3.

The Republican's inability to control the nation's economy has led to the biggest socialist move in the history of the US. The Republicans bill has bailed out Wall Street and the Nation's Banks with OUR tax money. And, they have the audacity to call Obama a socialist? Ignorance.

Is this one of the supporters that John McCain is so proud of?

GROUPTHINK at it's best. "Tell a lie–tell it OFTEN–and every Republican will believe it!" The Republicans and their ilk can cling to their lies and deceit. Only THEY are foolish enough to buy into it. It's really sad.

PS. Colin Powell was very eloquent in his rationale for endorsing OBAMA.

GO OBAMA!

These buffoon republicrats would label Franklin Delano Roosevelt a Socialist as well with his New Deal programs. He was an essential part of our nation's history, he helped to dig us out of our Depression and paved the way for why so much of the rest of the world are still so inspired by our national narrative. Obama will carry on in the tradition of Roosevelt. Let the peanut gallery eat peanuts and then join ranks behind an Obama presidency and get down to work.

How immature of her.

To Ms. Fanning: If you were with other members of your "church", I hope your pastor will preach on I John 4: 7-8. Please, please, ALL AMERICANS, let us come together for the good of our country ... the world is watching!

Thank you, General Colin Powell, for articulating your reasons for the endorsement of Senator Obama. As an independent, I cast my vote last week in the NC early voting for Barack Obama.

I'd like to know what loving group of Christians the woman screaming "socialist! - get out of here!" is from?

The "S" word is going around... they have drilled it into their minds. My brother in law kept calling Obama a socialist..My husband hung up on him!

Fanning, like Joe the plumber, are simply Mccain's creatures!

If John McCain were to come into a restaurant, I wouldn't yell "Fascist, Fascist, Fascist – get out of here!" While I don't agree with McCain on nearly every core issue, it doesn't mean I'm going to resort to the childishness seen in this woman. 54 years old and she sounds like a toddler just grasping onto the basic concepts of correct communication.

Mr. Obama's views and beliefs are socialist and radical. He believes that the government should be bigger and take care of everybody. And he LIES when he says that he will have no tax increases for anyone making less than $250K. He has stated that he will not renew the "Bush Tax Decreases" that are set to expire in another year. At that time EVERYONE will see much higher taxes on their capital gains and death taxes.

What an image to the world these people are presenting. The courage of Obama to face these confrontations and dangers when he could be earning 100s of thousands of dollars in the privare sector speaks to his patriotism and love for his country.

I don't know how McCain can look himself in the mirror or actually stand in front of his crowds and spew his lie and distortions.

McCain Camp has no Shame. And these poor little old ladies are listening to Rush Limbaugh, Fox News, and Sarah Palin, and they are believing the lies and fear mongering! Too many Americans are ignorant enought to be swayed by a smooth talking huckster be they of the religious or political kind! They simply can't think for themselves even when they are cutting off their noses to spite their faces. It's Pitiful... simply pitiful!

McSame and McBarbie would not tell the truth if it came up and slapped them in the face. They are desperate, and the desperate have obviously sold their souls to the devil.

I suspect it unlikely that any other candidate would talk to someone that yelled angrily at him or her. But Obama did. He understands that talking to someone is the best way to relay ideas and perhaps change minds. And he did so without "pre-conditions".

Although it is possible, even likely, that he did not change her mind, I would bet that she feels better about the prospect of an Obama Presidency. She should!

McWar has been reduced to name calling which is nothing more than pathetic.

Whatever plan Obama has can't be worse than how the republicans have screwed us over the last 8 years.

Oh geez. I'm voting for Obama!

I wonder if Fanning read that on the internet or just took McCain's words. She obviously doesn't know how to research information for herself, not well informed, or perhaps uneducated. I'm more inclined to believe Fanning is uneducated and can't use a computer either.

Most people don't even know what socialism is. It's just another LABEL that the deperate Republicans are trying to stick on Obama. It's part of their hate campaign. Now that Colin Powell has endorsed Obama, idependents and undecideds will move toward him. Not even Joe the unlicensed plumber whose name is really Sam can help the GOP now,

McCain is socialist in profit of the wall street boys. Barack Obama is not.

Daine Fanning needs to crawl back under her rock, what a despicable woman, if this is how you treat human beings after going to church it's quite disgusting..............She is a true testament to the ignorance in this country..................People like her only believe what they went to believe..apparently she has fallen for the shallow lies and distortion coming from the McCain/ Palin camp...................McCain and Palin have sunk to an all time low, inciting racsim and hate in this country........this is going to get nastier if they don't back off

I hope to God no one gets hurt or worse............what a shameful time in Republican politics

In the words of John Lennon – "Give peace a chance" pleeease. This racist hatred is making me feel sick inside, that kind of hatred will only turn in on the hater. How can anyone who professes to be a church goer feel this way? Americans,UNITED you will stand....I just don't understand why you don't get it.

I'm gonna go with David Gergen on this one...and maybe Obama should too. McCain voted for the 700 billion dollar bailout which injected 150 billion directly into our banks. McCain ALSO is proposing a $5,000 healthcare credit to Americans so they can "shop" for their own healthcare. Where do you think that money is coming from...the gov't and taxpayers who for the first time will be TAXED on HC. So McCain is once again lying but especially bad on this one because he's suggesting his very own version of socialism via healthcare credits.

Cut the bull McCain you're losing and your lies just make you look worse!

Obama/Biden '08 & '12

This woman defines the republican base.

Unfortunately this women is just another casualty of the McCain-Palin campaign's misinformation, lies, deception and the fostering of hate against anyone outside of their far, far right extremist concepts. Even the 'traditional' Republicans are distancing themselves from them. More than likely, she would be part of the 95% of Americans who would benefit from the Obama tax cut and more affordable health care. However, she seems to be letting hate and ignorance force her to neglect her own well being.

socialist is now the new code word. (first it was muslim, then terrorist)i bet the lady does not even know the meaning of that word.

Every week, the McCain campaign and supporters have a different name to call Obama every week...

Now you have silly people yelling and calling Obama a socialist just because they heard McCain and Palin mention the word.... these supporters probably don't even know that the word means.... this is how these supporters work–just repeating what they've heard their candidate say.

That's the general mentality of people who are still supporting McCain.

As a devout Christian I am curious as to what church Ms. Fanning attends. Given Jesus’ unambiguous teachings about caring for and sharing with those in need, I suspect that Ms Fanning would also angrily scream “socialist” at our Lord.

It never ceases to amaze me how paranoid people are about "socialism". It is especially odd because many people do not even know what true socialism is. Many wrongly equate it with communism. It appears that the cold war with the USSR has left many people with an unhealthy fear of government intervention of any kind. Well, government has a role to play to intervene on behalf of the people who elected it.

It also perplexes me that people are not more fearful of the constitutional violations that the Bush administration committed with its wiretapping of innocent individuals under the guise of the Patriot Act. Now that smacks of communism.

Bad manners are just BAD Manners.

For all you people who profess to be Christians, you are giving Christians a bad name. Christians are supposed to understanding, forgiving, and should not be slinging mud the way it's being done in the McCain campaign. How can you condone what Sarah Palin is doing...inciting division among the American people with her lies and inuendos. Obviously, McCain does not want to be labelled as saying the things she is saying, so he's using her as his mouthpiece.....I am soooooo disappointed in him, but then again, look at his character. He was a man who had multiple affairs when he was married to his first wife, and started an affair with his present wife while he was still married to that wife. He, also has been involved with people who have shady character. Be very careful what you say about others....you spit straight up in the sky, it will fall back in your face. How can they sleep at nights.

Why would people like Warren Buffet, the richest man in the world, and the #1 master of investments, and Colin Powell, be endorsing Barack Obama if they didn't feel confident in him. I have heard him say he is consulting with some of the best brains in the country on the various issues. No man, by himself, has expertise in everything. I have not heard McCain mentioning anyone he is consulting. Each day I hear Obama, I feel more at ease listening to him, but get more scared the more I hear what's coming out of the McCain campaign.

I really hope the American people will vote for the one who seems to be spending more time on the issues and what he can do for them, trying to unite them, rather than the one who is throwing mud, forcing the other to have to respond to the garbage.

I think Obama should ask people what they think "socialist" means. The fear mongering from the McCain campaign has made this term synonymous with "terrorist". Asking people to explain the meaning of socialist might prove interesting, especially if asked what term they would apply tol buying banks and aiding large corporations with taxpayer money.

spreading the wealth, as he said, IS socialism folks!

Under Obama Communism will be next.

Barack is a leader of character and wealth... Wealth of intelligence..!

As for Diane Fanning.. it is too bad she cannot see past her nose to the good that comes from intelligent ideas. Diane will benefit from Barack's "Socialist" ideas and she will be the better for it.. Though she won't see it or want to embrace it... but she will except it ..(daily)

Obama/Biden.... 208, 2012..

To the lady in the restaurant, that wouldn't shake Senator Obama hand when he approached her table. She also call him a socialist. I can tell by her bad grammar, she is very unlearned. Most people are taught when growing up, by their parents to respect everyone whether you agree with them are not. I guess the church group, she was with brought it to her attention, how disrespectful she had treated him. After all, the rest of her party shook is hand. I guess he must have answered questions, on the issues that concern her. I would like to know if that was her business? If not how could she ask him to get out. This race is getting very ugly. She might as well get use to it. She'll be calling Senator Obama, President Obama after his win in the Nov. 4. election. OBAMA /BIDEN 08

Good job Obama, talking to a hostile misinformed Republican face-toface, on her turf.

By doing so you show a strength of character 99% of Republicans can only dream of, indeed, many Republicans are very afraid of.

Please be careful though, Sarah Palin's theo-facist hate-mongering Republican Brown-Shirts know no bounds.

Is socialism then the opposite of "trickel-down"? Why is it such a bad word?

Sen. Obama is 100% correct. What I don't understand is why McCain and Palin are obsessed with lying, attacking, and Joe the Plumber. The Plumber is not representative of Americans and Sen. Obama recognizes that fact. Sens. Obama and Biden have been discussing the issues and how real Americans are affected.

I think the McCain / Palin speeches are much better in the original German.

If you want to move forward, put your car in (D)emocrat.
If you want to go backwards, put your car in (R)epublican.

Obama is NOT a socialist.

But here is a question for McCain, Palin and all those who call Obama a socialist: what exactly do you call McCain's plan to buy back the bad mortgages with taxpayer money? Isn't that redistribution of the wealth?

I pay my mortgage on time, yet now McCain wants me to use my money to pay for the mortgages of people who are facing foreclosure – is that really capitalism? Isn't that redistribution of the wealth? McCain is out of touch, and I hope that he and Palin DO NOT go anywhere near the White House, for the sake of this nation!

Obama's economic plan is better than McCain's. Obama is ready to lead and help this country get out of this financial mess.

Socialist.....Wow.....Why not just try to blame the cold war on the guy too. We live in a socialist state right now. How do you think the rich people and the politicians survive now? On your taxes. The truly rich people in the country don't pay taxes in the same manner that the remainder of the country pays them. They pay what they want, because of loop-holes in the tax code, so you can technically raise the tax rate to 80% for corporations and it still won't matter. 80% of 0 is 0. I know because I run a small business. The Iraq war, the patriot's act and the whole right wing agenda was financed by tax payers and all the while, the rich continued to get paid out of tax dollars for shipping jobs overseas. If that isn't exclusive socialism, I don't know what is! If you recall, our reasons for fighting the war of independance was taxation without representation. People need to realize, we have come to that point yet again. The rich own the government and the government taxes the poor. As a result, the government is only interested in making conditions in such a way that the rich people get rewarded for championing profits.

I'll make it plain. We can continue to spend this money that Obama is talking about redistributing here in the US or we can keep sending it to Iraq and huge tax incentives for the top 1%. If keeping it here means that I'm a socialist, then sign me up.

OBAMA/BIDEN 08

I'm sick of the talk about Joe the NOT REALLY a Plumber and the hate and fear mongering from the McCain camp! Wake up, America, and think for yourselves!

Why won't the media cover McCain's history with Gordon Liddy the same it does with Obama and Ayers?

Stand up and show that we won't stand for politics as usual. There is a reason that the smartest people in this country are backing Obama. Can you say that the last 8 years have been good for this country? Can you imagine another 4 run by the same people?

This is your chance to make a difference. Don't fear color, fear policies.

Obama/Biden 2008

Proof of how misleading the Republican party is.....some people will believe anything they here even without proof or evidence..!

Dangerous, dangerous!

It's worrisome that there are people out there that really believe this "socialist" crap. It just goes to show just how ignorant and uninformed some are. Is this McCain's strategy, make people afraid of change? Give it an un-American sounding label? Give it an un-patriotic sounding name? Is McCarthyism on the rise? If McCain's "base" has this type of mentality, the GOP is doomed. Lets hope that the average American voter is better than this.

In my opinion, John McCain and Sarah Palin are to blame for this type of mentality because they have been talking this type of trash on the campaign trail. I really wish they would stop before it gets out of hand.

By the same token, I do not consider John McCain a war monger. He's served his country honorably. He's just not what this country needs as our President and Sarah Palin is not qualified to be VP much less President.

Also, this woman is distugisting. I understand that she grew up in the era of America when the "red scare" was prevolent, but there is no excuse for her behavior. This is a product of the McCain campaigns attempts to severly divide us in this election. Shame on you Mrs. Fanning.

This woman is an idiot! She can put any label on it that she wants, I really don't care, just as long as I get good health care, good paying jobs, and peace for out nation. This is something the Republicans have failed to do. Time for a change to prosperity.

Sad to admit, I'm a christian when christian behave so ill. i love Jesus, and that's not the way we are to behave.

"“Socialist, socialist, socialist – get out of here!”"

Isnt that the same thing they yelled at MLK?

Just sayin

this is the result of hate and mis-information the mccain/palin ticket is propagating

So sad that people let others influnence the way they think, she is only repeating what she is hearing McCain and Palin say on the trail.......to bad people can't or won't vote their own minds but they will vote the minds of others........we don't need those kinds of votes, McCain is a follower not a Leader and these people are followers not leaders, so I guess McCain attracks his own kind.......

Ms. Fanning is an example of the kind of voter McCain cherishes –someone who can't think for themselves, research on their own where the candidates stand on issues and make an educated decision. Rather, they just blabber out extremist remarks like those of McCarthyist Congresswoman Michelle Bachmann. This is the start to a shameful week for America.

So let me get this straight...it is "capitalism" when the government bails out fat cats who use their Wall Street Christmas bonuses to buy Porsches and apartments in Manhattan, but it is "socialism" to use federal funds to help the millions of average Americans whose lives and families have been devastated by the utter failure of trickle-down economics? You betcha, makes perfect sense to me.

My vote has already been cast for change..Obama/Biden 08!!!!

Right on, Obama!

NO MORE COPORATE WELFARE!!!!!!!!

“Some of ‘em are just nicer than I am”,
..that, kinda says it all when it comes to [Church-Going] Republicans!
Vile, closed-minded, racist, hypocrites!

Well, ain't that a fine christian woman.

Socialist? Obama is NOT a socialist.

But here is a question for McCain, Palin and all those who call Obama a socialist: what exactly do you call McCain's plan to buy back the bad mortgages with taxpayer money? Isn't that redistribution of the wealth?

I pay my mortgage on time, yet now McCain wants me to use my money to pay for the mortgages of people who are facing foreclosure – is that really capitalism? Isn't that redistribution of the wealth? McCain is out of touch, and I hope that he and Palin DO NOT go anywhere near the White House, for the sake of this nation!

Obama's economic plan is better than McCain's. Obama is ready to lead and help this country get out of this financial mess.

Can op Rove and Scooter Libby from destroying social security ?
President Bush and Senator McCain have made a socialist society of us due to their personal greed.

Hopefully, McCain,72, will retire now.

I pity Ms. Fanning – she's horribly misinformed. I'm glad that others in her church group were more tolerant. I'll lay odds Ms. Fanning has no idea what a Socialist is, so shouldn't be tossing the term at Sen. Obama. He's clearly NOT a Socialist.

Imagine that. Obama is willing to be the President of ALL Americans, not just so called "real" Americans.

I'm willing to bet that Diane Fanning would not even be able to define what a solicalist is. Just another example how the McCain will target the uneducated and ply them with words that sound frightening.

Good for the other lady yelling back "at least he's not a war-monger". Something tells me the Silent Majority from 1972 will be rearing it's head come election time by electing who they, at least privately, feel will bring much more to this country then the alternative.

It is one thing to disagree with someone, but it totally rude to not show some hospitality.

Way to go CNN on reporting on the fact that Obama wants to "cut" taxes on 95% when 40% don't even pay taxes!!!

Obama will raise taxes on the people that make jobs and give them to people that don't even pay them.

I find it strange that the woman eating lunch with her church group couldn't be enough of a Christian to shake hands with Obama. Is that what Jesus would have done?

I am guessing that Diane is a "real southerner" who supports the rich getting richer while Americans like herself and me continue to struggle. GROW UP DIANE!

Socialist? Obama is NOT a socialist.

But here is a question for McCain, Palin and all those who call Obama a socialist: what exactly do you call McCain's plan to buy back the bad mortgages with taxpayer money? Isn't that redistribution of the wealth?

I pay my mortgage on time, yet now McCain wants me to use my money to pay for the mortgages of people who are facing foreclosure – is that really capitalism? Isn't that redistribution of the wealth? McCain is out of touch, and I hope that he and Palin DO NOT go anywhere near the White House, for the sake of this nation!

Obama's economic plan is better than McCain's. Obama is ready to lead and help this country get out of this financial mess.

This is a message to Diane Fanning or anyone who share her ideas,

What a shame! Don't you idiots realize that even if you don't have the same political view you must have some manners and education! We all must have learned this at home when children or was it that you and your love ones were so bigot that couldn't see beyond race!

I'll take Warren Buffet and General Colin Powell's word over McCain's any day of the week.

oh man. some people cannot think for themselves. to not shake hands is just rude. shows her lack of character.

Wow! I guess small-town values don't include politeness. What ever happened to southern hospitality? My grandmother was from Georgia so I think I know what happened to both examples of civility,........

Seems odd that a man who served as a Republican in Several Administration is endorsing Obama? OR WAIT they are both BLACK! Kinda makes you think about the race card theory again! And Obama to actually accept the endorsement tells you alot about his charactor being as Powell signed off on the Iraq war right along with Bush! "Keep your friends close and your enemies closer" the foal stench of hypocrisy has lingered in the air around Obama starting day 1 with Hillary. And by the way wasn't that Bill and Hillary sitting with the "undecided voters" at the 2nd debate? lol!

When you take money from 5% to give to 95%... thats socialism.

We have not seen as large a redistribution of wealth.. since Lennon redistributed wealth in Socialist Russia...

I wonder does that Fanning lady know what a socialist is? She needs to be interviewed four years from now after Obama's first term and she how much she has benefited from his administration.

See . . . Obama is cool enough, level-headed enough, to approach "the other side of the isle" (the side that screams falsehoods at him) just to make peace, to come to an understanding. Although he may not have won Fanning over, he listened, addressed her concerns and seemed to calm her down.

How can you NOT be proud to vote for Obama ??

This is one instance that the church crowd cannot do what they are supposed to do. Remember the tongue, you know the rest.

That patron shouting socialist is a moron who doesn't understand what socialism is, she's just been told that it's bad and Obama believes in it. Pathetic.

Diane Fanning is certainly entitled to her opinion. And my guess is she will be voting for McCain. However, the majority of us will be/are voting for Obama. Ms. Fanning will also reap the benefits that will be made manifest from our actions. Time will heal the deep wounds of this campaign and hopefully the anger will disappear (as spewed by Ms. Fanning and others of like mind). We've certainly experienced enough of that.

OBAMA and BIDEN for the CHANGE WE NEED in this country!

As a European (and great and old friend of the US, even if also the sun has spots!!) I would love to lecture most Republicans on the difference between socialism and social democracy. My God, the panic that this word "social" spreads is incredible, but ignorance is dangerous! After having travelled for 20 years in your great country, I cannot count the times I have come across this incredible fear of everything in the American language that starts with the word "social". I would honestly not be able to find one single person among friends I have all over Europe, who would even touch Obama´s policy as being socialistic! Obama is simply very clever in his thinking of how to save as many problems as possible for as many working Americans as possible! As well as for those without work for the time being! That is NOT socialism!!!
Many of us on the other side "of the lake" wish to see this bright, strong, innovative and respectful gentleman of Barak Obama as the next President of a great nation like the United States of America. VOTE and dump being scared!!!

The whole "socialism" argument put forth by McCain/Palin is pathetic.

I don't see them complaining about socialized police forces, or socialized firefighters, or socialized libraries, or socialized traffic systems. Yet that's exactly what we have in this country. Socialism is not an evil thing.

People need to stop confusing socialism and communism...they're not the same. And Obama's policies are hardly socialist.

I believe and I want to believe that most Americans aren't like this women. Those of us who want real change for all Americans will vote Obama in and he will represent and take care of all of us, not just the 1% on wall street who stoled our money and paved a hard road for our youth and their children. But we Americans of all ethnicities will overcome what the 1% on wall street did to us. Vote Obama!!!!! Our future depends upon him to make us a respected govt again!!!!

I just hope the rest of the American people wake and see what Mccain and his vp are trying to do to our country. It will be very scary If Mccain gets in their and somehow he does not last the whole term and Sarah gets in there. If it was the other way around God Forbid something would happen at least we know that Biden could lead the country and we would not have to live in fear. Lets hope God has a plan to let Obama and Biden get the election.

McCain has no legs to stand on when trying to state Obama's policies are Socialist. Obama needs to ask John McCain what the McCain proposed policy of the government buying up peoples homes so that people can stay in them and the entire bailout plan that McCain supports amounts to. Smells of socialism to me.

I really wish that McCain supporters would stop and think about something. Even if (big IF) he wins the Presidency, he faces an opposing congress. Which means, his health care plan…DOA, his tax proposals…DOA, and for that matter, ANY of his proposals…DOA.

I also watched what seemed to be the pathetic attempt by the GOP to be an "October surprise". It claims something I have seen over and over, that Barack Obama is not a naturally born citizen of the United States. This accusation has of course, been proven wrong. My firm belief is simple, how can a canidate that is a "terrorist", "non-citizen" be allowed to get this close to the presidency without warning from the FBI, CIA, and INS?

The answer is simple, all of these accusations are completely false. McCain supporters, I know it's hard, but stop lying to yourselfs and the rest of us. You are losing, stop being sore losers.

CNN moderators- Please post this. Thank You

His platform is Socialistic. Colin Powells endorsement came as no suprise to anyone with half a brain. I knew that would happen when Obama won the nomination. Why the wait, is what I don't understand.

The mumbling, naive, and conspiracy theorist SNL crazy lady is getting around!

It is simply amazing how so many Americans can get so upset by words like liberal and socialism when they likely don't have any idea of the philosphies behind either definition.

Perhaps the news medias should be highlighting the standings of the different countries in the world and then maybe people would be able to see how there current political system has put them light years behind at least 28 other countries.

In the final analysis if people don't vote to change direction they will surely drop lower in the global standings as the current track they are on will only lead to more oppression and wars.

Fanning is a typical ignorant redneck. Thank God people like her are fast ebcoming a minority in NC.

I'm from North Carolina. This is Jesse Helms country. For Barack to be doing this well in these parts is a great testament to Barack. This country needs Barack and most of America is beginning to show that they do not care what his race is. This is a new day.

That's not the "Ville" I know. FayetteNam

I wonder does that Fanning lady know what a socialist is? She needs to be interviewed four years from now after Obama's first term and she how much she has benefited from his administration.

Hey, Joe the Plumber...meet Diane the Rude Church-goer...

Please let's get this over with. I can't handle more stupidity!

Obama can't be elected soon enough!

Faninning wasn't going to vote for Obama in the first place. She must be as old as McCain and is resistant to change.

Just curious ... how much this Fanning lady may be making?

Can't do much for these ignorant hillbillies ... God save their soul.

Ignorance, just pure ignorance.
If it weren't for the fact that people like Fanning
have an equal vote, I'd feel sorry for her.
Instead, I feel sorry for the rest of us.
Her way of thinking (limited to party talking points) put W. in office for a second term.

well one thing the far right and GOP are good at doing is name-calling and putting labels on people. And you're going to have some folks who don't even know what a socialist or socialism actually is and will agree with it. Yet this time I thnk the Dems will rise above it and it won't work. Just another name for Gov Palin to spout out at her rallies to get the crowd roared up in those 'Pro-American" places she visits.

This all started with "Joe the you know what." Last night, I was interested to hear on channel 12 NBC in Phoenix that "Joe" once lived here and has outstanding warrants plus a DUI. Joe wouldn't know socialism if it jumped up and bit him.

"In a sign that perhaps pre-election tempers are getting a little hot, according to the pool report when Obama entered the restaurant a woman screamed “Socialist, socialist, socialist – get out of here!” The woman, 54 year-old Diane Fanning was admonished by other diners and one woman yelled back “at least he’s not a war-monger.”

LOL!!!! You see guys, everything is balanced!! LOL!!! You know, some people might be bogus but there are the same amount of people that are nice. They might talk behind his back, they may not agree with him, as a matter of fact, they might hate him BUT even I know my country is smart enough to see respect and show it...

Let's face it, when election day comes, the unexpected may happen, who knows. This is the beauty of our country because you never know what to expect...

Who knew we could get along, huh? LOL!!!

How many of these people screaming "socialist" even know what socialism is? I bet not one of them have ever picked up "Communist Manifesto". I guarantee you these ignoramuses would change their tone.

"That One" 08

What other names did Diane Fanning call him? As though we don't know...

Obama can deny the charge all he likes, but the plain fact remains that he's in favor of using the force of government to compel some people, the ones who, in his opinion, have more money than they really need, to subsidise people who, in his opinion, ought to be entitled to more money than society would voluntarily provide them.

That's socialism, the pernicious philosophy that economic freedom is not a right enjoyed by Americans, that people may be compelled to work for the benefit of strangers deemed by government as somehow entitled to the fruits of others' labors.

This country didn't grow, from being a sparse collection of farmers and shopkeepers clinging precariously to the edge of a vast wilderness, to what once was the most powerful nation on Earth by denying people the full benefit of their own efforts. We didn't achieve greatness by rewarding sloth and irresponsibility.

Once upon a time, we had freedom in America. But, bit by bit, we've surrendered that freedom to people like Obama who promise to "take care of us." Surrendering responsibility for ourselves necessarily implies surrendering our freedoms as well.

What is it called when the Republicans have been consistently steering the nation's wealth to the top 2% of the population. If fair taxes means socialism, then what we have been getting for the last 8 years is welfare for the wealthy. The disparity in this country is dramatic and has been steadily increasing. It is time for fairness.

Why should socialist be insulting? Explain to me.
The republican campaign (as Colin Powell also noticed) tries to change simple words into insulting words like muslim, welfare etc.
I personally would like to "well fare" and I think that taking care of the society is important.
It seems to me that ideological debate is simply impossible in america. I would say this results from the electoral system which essentially reduces the political offer to two parties.
What's that for people who are supposed to believe in concurrence?

If Diane Fanning is the average American, then the average American is an idiot. And the killer is that this idiotic woman was out with her church group, when she refused to shake the Senators hand. Wow, they must teach a lot of good stuff in that church.

It is admirable about the way the Obama campaign and himself have been reacting to the less than honest accusations being hurled at them. I have been sickened to watch people behave or verbally yell things that have no place in America . I know people like the example of Fanning exsist, but I do not understand in an age where you can get information easily that ignorance seems to exsist. I am glad the media is also letting people to see some of the attitudes exsisting, which can be alarming , but show where alot of work needs to be done in our country. Some of those places are the hardest hit economically but they believe in things that do nothing to improve their situations. I live in a battleground state and Obama has the full support of my entire family. We are looking forward to a positive change for all in this country. It has been a long time coming.

I'm ashamed by anyone that can go to church and turn around and act like this Fanning woman...Doesn't she listen when she is there?

I wonder if she even knows what the word socialist means, other than what Rush or Hannity have been saying?
Sad, Sad, to have still so many people who, just don't take the time to educate themselves, and become mindless echoes of others

And how would some of them think of your outrageous behaviour, Ms. Fanning? Senator Obama is too kind of a gentleman to not extend his hand. But you chose to be rude and intolerant...how sad.

This country doesn't need more people like Diane Fanning spreading the fear and lies of the Republican Party to others. Do us a favor and keep your hate-filled comments and rhetoric to yourself where it belongs. These false cries of socialism are pathetic and about as low as one can go in a political campaign.

But hey, if we're going to go there, why don't you just go ahead and label McCain and Palin fascists?

church goers behaving like that? Is a christian church? didnt Jesus say to help others?

wwjd? not say get out of here!

"THAT ONE" greets ugly with kindness even if it hurts. This is a man that will be the president of ALL AMERICANS.

Was Fanning that same nutcase at the McCain rally calling Obama an Arab?! It's amazing how some folks call Obama a socialist, but were ok with Bush giving tax cuts to the rich when most of them are breaking their back trying to make ends meet.

Fanning can't speak for me. She's only disgracing our races.

We'll probably discover in the next few days that Ms. Fanning was contacted last week by the RNC and asked to appear at this restaurant to "ruin Obama's photo-op."

Notice that Obama talked to her, even after her diatribe.
No wonder General Powell endorsed a Democrat for the first time in his life.

This divide is the consequence when you have irresponsible politicians saying anything to get elected, it is a shame. They should realize the WHOLE world is looking at them.
And history will be merciless...........

Way to go Obama! Keep on fighting back for our country, our people, our unity, our values, our moral, our domestic and international respect. Only you can bring us the change this country needs. Colin Powell's endorsement of Obama was the most cogent, rational, thoughtful endorsement I have seen, along with his admonishment of the McCain campaigns negativity. It made me swell with deep pride.

McCain/Palin are on a totally different planet and can take their Fannings, Joe the lying noncertified plumber, and others seeking division and separation in this country along with them when they walk away on November 4 with their tails between their legs.

Educate yourself people. Stop the ignorance. Obama and Biden are the real deal. Get out and vote, vote, vote!

Obama/Biden '08

Ask any Certified Public Account about the Republican way of raising taxes it's through the back door. Bush Sr. was famous for it. They have gone to the IRS and changed formulations.
No more, enough, we have had it with the last 8 years of failed economic policy.
We must unite and all work together under the leadership of Barack Obama. Yes, there will be sacrifice but I love this country and I want my children and grandchildren to be able to make it. Together we will make it happen. McCain and Palin have done nothing but try to divide us and that will only add up to failure.
Vote Hope Not Hate
Obama/Biden 2008

What do you want to bet that most of these people yelling and screaming about the evils of socialism will actually get a tax break under obama?

Every time I hear someone yell "socialist!" all I hear is "baaa". These are people who clearly haven't researched either candidate's tax plan and are just repeating what the rest of the sheep are saying.

Did you say 'some of her church members...'?So she's a christian.Does she know about what it means to be a christian?you don't behave that way towards a guy who may well be your next president.Christian indeed!

the point is even though this " CHRISTIAN" women just left chuch she could not even extend her hand as suspect JESUS would....... AMERICANS we can disagree without being disagreeable!!!!!! I would like to say that we are the laughing stock of the world... What is happening to us? It's sad

Pray not PREY
Peace and Blessings

Maybe Ms. Fanning was scared some of Senator Obama's intellect would rub off. How ridiculous, a "Christian" woman refusing to shake the hand of a Presidential nominee.

I'm old enough to remember the McCarthy years and I am having a hard time believing that a major party would engage in this behavior. How quickly we forget our history.

Name-calling is not John McCain's modus operandi. It belongs to Sarah Palin and the Rovian stooges he has hired. Shame on you John. I thought you were a great American, not a typical losing politician!

Any fair minded american , in this age of " haves and have nots ", dont see things in such simplistic terms as those sloganeers on the replublicrook side .
After all , our taxes are used for collective well being ........such as repairing our infastructure , our military readiness , health services , any and all civic activities, police , fire , schools , court system , etc., ....
So if John McBush is against the items I listed above , he should be able to explain in no uncertain terms his reasoning .......
We are tired of the " Slogans ", ( Joe the plumber , Nascar mom`s / dads , Joe six- pack , hockey moms ) .........We want real solutions to real problems that our nation faces in this 21 st. century , and beyond .

have some respect lady. geesh. I think john mccain is the lowest of the low but if i was in a diner and he was shaking hands i'd at least shake his hand and have an intelligent (well, on my end) conversation with him. i am going to call my 54 year old mom right now and tell her how much i appreciate her for not being diane fanning..

Mccain calls giving hard working American a tax break Socialism What does that tell thinking Americans? Mccain is out of touch with the American people.

By McCain trying to call Obama's economic policies "socialist", one can only conclude that McCain's campaign is characterized by fascism.

Mccain calls giving hard working American a tax break Socialism What does that tell thinking Americans? Mccain is out of touch with the American people.

It's people like Diane Fanning that makes this country a joke sometimes. The sad thing is when Obama is President, chances are this close-minded rude lady will benefit from his policies.

It's disgraceful. When a presidential candidate offers to shake your hand, shake it.

Disagree without being disrespectful. Shame on you.

Well, I believe that Republicans forget how Great President Reagan established a complete social security system, which was simply based on socialism somehow. Less tax for the poor is the universal policy in every country nowadays. I still do not understand why some Republicans still live in the 19th century.

Ah, Ms. Fanning, keep basking in your ignorance.

And the ironic thing about it is, she would probably stand to benefit the most from Obama's economic policies.

Don't question Comrad Obama!

I should rather be an employed socialist than a destitute war-monger, not to put too fine an edge on this.

Socialism is NOT the devil; as a matter of fact, in many instances, it embodies democracy as few other premises.

Fanning is ignorant, but that is fixable and no crime, for if it were, we should have to place 50% of the country in the hoosegow.

Nice to know there is so much maturity out there. Geez. I just don't get what drives some people.

So, it's Obama fault that we/US tax payers have had to bail out the banks/mortgage cos?
Are these people really that stupid???
Have they not heard about McCain's "deregulation" background, haven't they heard him say it over and over through the years.
Isn't it just pure greed that got us to this point?
McCain's "Good Christian" supporters say more about him than anything else!!!
What McCain & Palin are doing is abhorrent – they will split this country in 2 before they are done.
Won't the next POTUS have enough to deal with without having to "reunite" the country too?
Aren't we all in a big enough mess without stirring up extra issues?
Is there no end to McCain's selfish, irresponsible behavoir – what happened to "Country First" – he is a SELL OUT!

The cynical McCain, as he responded to the failing economy, he's throwing the kitchen sink on Obama. The only thing that McCain has proved is his poor and irresponsible judgment... as he has done choosing an unethical running mate.

Let's GET OUT AND VOTE ... and let's elect OBAMA!!!

I can see the headlines for this week already "FANNING REPLACES JOE THE PLUMBER".

YES FOLKS, AT THIS POINT AMERICA REALLY IS TWO COUNTRIES

Socialist, eh? Play to lowest common denominator and it rings true with the most ignorant.

Anyone who thinks Obama is a socialist doesn't even realize that he is a pure capitalist that recognizes that Americans are hurting. You also think that BLACK people are lazy, and unwilling to work when given the opportunity. This thinking biases your hiring practices, and makes you develop preconceived judgments about the people you are willing to hire, and those you are not. This implicit practice of active racism MUST STOP!

If Obama's economic plans are so-called socialist then McCain's foreign and domestic politicies are fascists. So, quit with the name calling because I don't like either! How's that!

This is a mild sample of the unrest Mccain/palin have stirred
up. This is minor compared to some.
In a time when our country needs to be united and strong,
some politicians are trying to divide.
This 54 year old woman had a right to her belief and Barack
treated her with respect. She should have done the same
with him. Most people, hopefully, would, unless they had
gone to and believed what was said at a republican
rally.

What an idiot! By shaking hands you don't have to vite him, which you won't do anyway... but at least you show some manners and respect for a human being...

George Bush just committed the largest SOCIALIST act in the history of the word by nationalizing the banks. Chavez in Venezuela is RED with envy!

Way to go Comrade Bush!

[ McBush voted with our Socialist President more than 90% of the time and is quite proud of it. ]

Oh me, oh my, it's the boogey man Socialist! Every week it's a different tag. (If this is how John McCain runs a clean campaign, what would it be like if he decided to get dirty – terrorism?) Without the socialist part of our government would we have social security, medicare, schools, roads, police, firemen, hospitals, etc. etc. In other words tax funded services. Good Grief!

She refused to shake his hand? What is she 10? Does she think he's got cooties or something? Reeeeaaal mature.

Fanning – you'll never read this but I feel sorry for you. As a despicable person, without decency, you should only hope to find yourself forgiveness for being such a hate monger.

Yet another example of how divisive the McCain campaign has become. McCain/Palin, this is what happens when you spew hate in your stump speeches day after day. We've had enough!

It's one thing to disagree with someone's views, but as an adult that was very immature of this woman. Not the fact that she wouldn't shake his hand (I mean who cares really?), but yelling "socialist" and "get out of here." What is she twelve? Grow up.

McCain is afraid we spread the wealth around and have him give up his 8 houses and 12 cars, but I have a degree and I'm not making 2000,000 and I'm no plumber, so if Joe the Plumber who is not a plumber thinks that it is too much to pay taxes on his 250,000 after getting help to start his business then I won't be calling on Joe the Plumber when I need plumbing done.

We all no why Powell and Buffet edorse Obama as do Wright, Sharpten and the rest of "you people." I could give a rats &*% about Powell. He just lost my respect! The others never had it. Sharptem and those guys are nothing but money hungry, power hungry racist lowlifes.

Ms. Fanning does not speak for all North Carolinians. Fortunately, the small minded will not prevail in November.

McCain and Palin have accomplished one thing. Inciting hate and doing so by distorting Obama's policies and character. My son watched video last night on Don Lemon's show and was quite taken aback at the hate in this country because someones skin color is different from theirs. He has had the priviledge of attending schools that have Native Americans, Blacks, Asians and White students. His friends belong to all these races and he is a better person because of these relationships. This has become an emotional issue for me because this country has got to get past the hate. I am encouraged by my son's generation who embrace all and hopefully all this filth will not influence our precious youth.

Fanning sounds to me like she is brainwashed by McCainn's party.
When you know better you do better.......Look at what the republican party has done in the last 8 years with no new taxes......Duh....were in a recession now....their way did not work...I for one want a change and I am voting for Obama.......Fanning dont believe the lies of McCain/Palin they are desperate and will say anything to sway voters that arent aware of their lies.

Perhaps she was afraid that he could turn her "Muslim" or his black would rub off of her. McCain's campaign has done everything short of telling people that Obama will allow black men rape white women.

This just goes to show you the danger of what McCain and Palin are spouting. They are giving false information and fueling the fires of hatred. I dare to say that some will use the socialist line to hide their racism. Debate the issues do not label people and spread fear just to win an election.

Obama is a "Socialist" amongst other things!

CALL BARACK WHATEVER YOU WANT.

HE IS FOR THE WORKING AMERICAN.

HE IS FOR THE FUTURE OF OUR CHILDREN.

HE IS FOR A SUPERIOR AMERICAN ECONOMY.

HE IS THE GUY THAT CAN LEAD US INTO A FUTURE

WE DESERVE & CRAVE. MCGREEDY WANT TO LEAD US

INTO MORE WARE & CERTAIN POVERTY FOR MOST OF US,

KINDA LIKE HE & BUSH HAVE ALREADY DONE.

This is sad how Mccain is deceiveing his supporters to believe a lie.This is the truth about Obama plan for small business 95% there will be no tax cut and if people turn on their brains and stop turning their brains off when they go to the Mccain/palin rally and start to think small business would do better under Obama plan. Mccain is wanting to give more and more to the wealthy same economy plan as Bush and that is why this country is in a financial mess now

Stupid woman. She can shout socialist but I bet her dumb behind is expecting to use social security among other benefits of the government that are SOCIALIST IN NATURE. What a fool. Why would anyone go against their own best interests?

I'm receiving very ugly smear emails against Obama - two this morning. Big hate campaign now behind scenes. Hope everyone who gets these will reply "to all" agressively that this tactic is ugly and dishonorable.

Im going tomorrow to vote early and vote for Obama. Up yours McCain and you dumb Christian rednecks.

and what church does she belong to? obviously not one that believes
in jesus who taught us to love everybody

Did I read that right? She was with a church group? She had better go back to church.

The 95% number is quite misleading.. the fact is the around 40% of people don't pay any federal income taxes.. Obama's plan will give them a tax credit in the form of check from the government "refunding" federal taxes which they haven't even paid. You can call it welfare, you can call it socialism, you can call it opportunity... what the Obama camp should do is honestly address the issue and then let the American people decide what they think...

Tax break – an oppurtunity? Gimme me a break......Obama's Policies screams....SOCIALISM! People should think hard before they vote...he wants to share the wealth...And his elitist comment about a plumber making $250,000 only shows what kind of a person OBAMA is..

He will lie about ACORN, JEREMIAH WRIGHT and AYERS...just to be in the WHITE HOUSE...

As for POWELL's endorsement – there's a saying ....Birds of the same feather...flock together..Of course Powell will endorse Obama...you know why? he wants to support the "first African Americal President!"

GO MCCAIN!!!!! BEAT OBAMA IN NOVEMBER !!!!!!

CNN – Maybe my comments are too harsh...but isnt that the meaning of freedom of speech....whether you publish my comments or not...i know you're network is rooting for OBAMA!

never let it be said that racism is dead in 2008.

McCain is out of weapons in this election... He is out of ideas, and insight. ALL Europe is social-democrat nowadays. McCain wants the McCarthy era back with its witch-hunting. He is reckless, demagogic and COMPLETELY ignorant about Obama's plan and about what social-democracy means. Labeling, generalization are for narrow minds. And that's what McCain REALLY is.

Fanning must have been on her way to church, certainly no one who just attended a church service would be so closed minded, narrow minded and out right wrongly judgemental-would they?

My goodness...whatever happened to Southern hospitality and good manners. Diane should be ashamed of herself. I'm sure North Carolina isn't at all proud of her behavior.

I think we're all ready to vote and move on with life. I am amazed to see McCain and Pailin accure Obama of being "socialist" and a bit spender. Look at the last 15-20 years…

- Which presidents racked up huge multi-billion dollar deficits? Reagan and Bush senior.

- Which president then balanced the federal budget by the end of his terms? Democrat Clinton.

- Which president then put us back in the hole by trillions? Republican Bush (George W).

Here's the difference: when (Republican) governments hand over money and tax breaks to the wealthy, it is not called "welfare", but when Democrats create programs that benefit poor and working people, suddenly they are "socialists". Go figure!

Will the real fiscal conservatives and budget-balancers who care about the people of this country please stand up? (thank you Barack Obama and Jo Biden)

And wIll the real big spenders on corporate welfare programmes who have bankrupted our country please move over? You had your turn, and we don't like your kind of corporate welfare and "socialism"

I'll ask again!

CNN PLEASE POST! I'm looking for answers to make a real decision!

WHO ARE THESE Over 200 Retired Generals and Admirals who endorsed McCain's 2008 Presidential Campaign?

I cannot find them on his website. Maybe one of his supporters can list them here. My vote depends on this answer!

Thank you!

If Obama is a socialist , then that would make McCain a Fascist !

Totally absurd !

I was hoping the days of Joseph McCarthy were far behind us .
Isn't McCarthy dead ?

ROFL @ "Socialist Socialist socialist get out of here!!!" and "At least he's not a war monger" I probably would have done the same thing if it were Palin or McCain walking into a restaurant where I was eating

If Mrs. Fanning is reading this, then I urge her to look at the way the two candidates are running their campaigns...one side is grasping at straws while Obama is taking the high road and firmly but NICELY getting his point across. Also Check your facts....don't take the word of McCain Palin, or Joe Internet Poster as Gospel

When McCain/Palin started splitting states and the country into "pro-american", "real-part-of-the-state", etc., it made me sick. And they just seem to keep spreading the fear and smear.

We have to be the UNITED States.

Obama/Biden '08

I am very concerned about how the McCain camp is fueling this anti american stuff, socialiest is just one of several things that have fueled a real messeage that Oboma is not a patriotic American. I thought better of McCain and if he continues with this realey negative campaigning aproach I don't think I can vote for him. I feel whether you're a republican, or a democrat, each are loyal American's.

concerned american...

Good to see Obama reaching out to all people, even those who have bought the "socialist" charge. It is a breath of fresh air after the "if you aren't with me, you're anti-american" attitude of the GOP for the last 8 years.

obama is saying the truth,macCain is wrong

I used to love the McCain of 2000 and could not wait to see him to be a presidential candidate. How ever, sadly I do not know this man any more.
Let me tell you, I am making more than 250k a year, and I have no problem to pay extra 3 or 4 percent extra tax as per senator Obama' plan. I do not like to pay taxes and I am definetly not a liberal, elitist or socialist. But I understand our country is going thru some rough time and I need to pay my fare share.

I would like to hear Palin give us the definition of "socialism". Explain the principles, please, and use it in a sentence other than the one she has been taught to repeat.

Republicans fear tactics!

Give it up Obama!

You are a socialist in the Marxist vein. You said you learned the most from Saul Alinsky, and you use his phrases in your speeches!

I know because I read "Reveille for Radicals" and "Rules for Radicals" by Saul Alinsky.

According to Alinsky, the ends justify the means so lie, cheat, steal – whatever it takes to get the power! You learned that well Obama!

This is the point where all you know who McCain is. He shouldn't treat his opponent as an enemy. America needs a new perspective in this modern world and here is where we need a Wise and an intelligent leader to lead. Someone who can really bring PEACE to America and not WAR.

To Diane Fanning:

I guess you will refuse to accept Social Security or Medicare when you turn 65 because they are "socialist" programs. You must be really rich to have the luxury of opting out!

i dont think palin fully understands what socialism is... or else she wouldnt be labeling him as such. really sad that this who a sizeable portion of americans thinks can lead...

The reaction of the woman in Fayetteville is just heartbreaking. We will not survive as a country with that level of intolerance and hatred within our population. My guess is that poor woman probably doesn't even really understand what socialism is, but has been indoctrinated by right-wing media and likely her church to hate anyone who is labeled as "liberal" which to her equals "socialism". Or it's even more simple than that, and "socialist" is the scary word du jour that she has been told to shout whenever one of "them" is near. This is the part of our population that Sarah Palin appeals to- those who would make ignorance, hate and intolerance qualities to admire and promote in our leadership. Let's hope that we can begin to educate this part of the electorate, and try to bring some unity and wisdom back to our country. Intelligence and learning must be valued, not feared!

The Republicans cry "re-distribution of wealth". I don't know why the Democrats don't cry the same response in return.

After all, the Republicans have been distributing our money to the rich, the lobbyists, and big corporations for the last 8 years. This is

Now John McCain comes along and wants to give our money to those
who can't afford their house payments because they couldn't afford them in the first place. Isn't that redistribution of wealth?

Sorry, I need to end this now.... I need to go buy a couple of million dollar house that I can't afford so I can get my share of the wealth, too.

That diner in North Carolina may end up being a good sampling of America right now. There are people clinging on to their notion of the past with extreme prejudice, but they appear to be far outnumbered by those with a much broader, educated view.

I find it ironic that this heckler was there with her church group, yet she refused to even shake Barack Obama's hand. Doesn't quite strike me as Christian for some reason.

Notice how many times Obama keeps referencing himself with the almighty "ME". This guy is a textbook narcissist.

I bet my Golden Retriever has more "schoolin'" than that idiot Fanning, he's respectable and know how to shake hands.

Poor Powell! He is still is a sucker for a lie! Obama, seems to have bought the line, that if you just tell the lies often enough, people will believe them!

McCain gave up important Military info after 4 days while a POW, that's not putting his country before his own person, is in fact treasonous. John McCain committed adultery, that's not a leader you can trust. John Mccain has lived off of the American people all of his life, owns 7 homes worth 13 million, personal wealth of over 110 million, thinks being rich is making 5 million collects SS and disability. Why disability? Yet he want us to believe he knows our pains…he failed to pay the taxes on his southern CA home. John McCain has the highest absent rate in the Senate, the worst voting record for Vets and women, became a “war-hero” in an immoral and unjust war (the Vietnam War), supports another illegal war in Iraq, wants war with Iran and Russia, has no clue about economy, saying that "all in all we are doing better than 8 years ago". He says he knows how to "win" a war but has no record to back that claim up. Being a POW just means that you are one of the worst of the fighter pilots…how many US fighter jocks have lost 3 or more aircraft???? The mission he flew on where he became a POW was a bombing mission over civilian territory. This makes him a "war hero"????? John McCain is running on his war "hero" status, but he pushed legislation making it impossible for families to get info about their MIA/POWs…and still refuses to release his Military records…AND HE WANTS THE DRAFT back!!! Why hasn't CNN had a headline about this???

Its easy for a parrot to repeat what it has been trained to say. LET ALL THE HUMAN BEINGS MAKE A WISE DECISION ON 11/4 AND NOW FOR EARLTY VOTERS! OBAMA 08/12!!

Commisar obama is right he is not a socialist try marxist

How can Obama say he will give a tax cut to 95% of Americans when 45% don't pay income taxes. That is not 95%!!

Socialism is defined as: any of various theories or systems of the ownership and operation of the means of production and distribution by society or the community RATHER than by private individuals, with all members of society or the community sharing in the work and the products.

This is true in that Obama wants to socialize medicine, taxes (his spread the wealth idea), etc. I kind of like the idea of individuals who work hard to make it not be penalized by redistribution wealth to give to those who stay at home and refuse to work. (sorry I hit the submit comment button too soon!!)

Lisa

People in this country need to remember their manners. When someone offers their hand in greeting, you really should offer yours in return. It's is really immature and rude not to. But even worse the namecalling- it reminds me of a grade school recess.. Hey if you don't agree with a politician- don't vote for them–but don't call them names...grow up people. this is getting crazy

Those republicans who are left on the broken McCain wagon are grasping at straws. They apparently know nothing about socialism, and some of McCain's own plans involve "redistributing wealth".

It is beyond absurd to call Obama a socialist. Pick up a frickin' book, turn of Rush and Hannity, and look it up yourselves.

Obama-Biden are exactly what this country needs right now.

Time for this election to be OVER.

As long as we pay taxes to support our schools, roads, government, etc. we are doing what Obama is talking about "spreading the wealth"...why does McCain call us Socialists for this? The LABEL of LIBERAL was beginning to sound like a good thing, so the REPUBLICAN WING-NUTS had to come up with another LABEL.. so we get SOCIALIST. McCain just says what he thinks will SCARE us..just like BUSH...a campaign of FEAR. We should be afraid of McCain...I know I am not better off than I was 8 years ago, ARE YOU???

This woman is all that is left of the Republican Party. If you don't look and think exactly like I do you have nothing of value to say.

How can Obama say he will give a tax cut to 95% of Americans when 45% don't pay income taxes. That is not 95%!!

Socialism is defined as: any of various theories or systems of the ownership and operation of the means of production and distribution by society or the community RATHER than by private individuals, with all members of society or the community sharing in the work and the products.

This is true in that Obama wants to socialize medicine, taxes (his spread the wealth idea), etc. I kind of like the idea of individuals who work hard to make it not be penalized by redistribution wealth to give to those who stay at home.

Lisa

Socialism? It's Bush who's nationalizing the banks. Maybe McCain-Palin should actually look the word up before they accuse somebody. I suppose 'Communist' will be next in trying to scare folks away from Obama. Ain't gonna happen this time.

Racist, Racist , Racist would have been a good response.

Sen. Obama, as someone who lives 50 miles away from that restaurant, I'd like to say that Ms. Fanning was out of line, discourteous and not representative of the southern tradition of graciousness. She does NOT speak for me or my family who will all be voting for you. She does NOT speak for people who are intelligent enough to know the difference between 'Socialism' and a 'Social Democrat'. This sort of outburst reminds us that education is still sadly lacking in America and even if you are uneducated as to political terms and definitions, it is traditionally a southern trait to be respectful and mind your manners. (I bet Ms. Fanning wears white after Labor Day, too...Bless her heart.)

Give it up Obama,

You are a socialist in the Marxist vein. You said you learned the most fom Saul Alinsky, and you use his phrases in your speeches!

I know because I read "Reveille for Radicals" and "Rules for Radicals" by Saul Alinsky.

According to Alinsky, the ends justify the means so lie, cheat, steal – whatever it takes to get the power! You learned that well Obama!

If Ms. Fanning heard all of Presidential Obama's strategic objectives for our 21st century future, She may have a healthcare system to help with her dental care - as well as an education to take her out of the BBQ -shack and into a healthier establishment.

I have always had my reservations about those proclaim church goers.there's people hide behind churches to launch their evil deeds and this is really not a good but I leave those hyprocrites for the fires of hell.

You gotta give Obama credit – despite the fact that this woman is screaming her head off, he takes the time to talk to her anyway, and address some of the issues that concern her. He's going to be a great President.

Diane Fanning needs to educate herself, and get a life.

You see how easy it is to manipulate people when all they have to do is research, and know the truth, but instead they rather be ignorant, disrespectful, rude, obnoxious, and believe everything MCcain says.

Poor woman she has my sympathy.

OBAMA FOR PRESIDENT:)))

WOW...what a witch. People can disagree with Obama, but they don't have to be nasty about it. Clear difference between right wing crazies and those that support Obama/Biden/US. Obama...you are the most genuine person ever to run for POTUS and I will be so proud to cast my vote for you on November 4th.

McCain believes that the American people are STUPID! He has taken the Obama's statement totally out of context. The truth is McCain don't have anything else to offer the American people.

By the way, if Obama did a Rap skit he would have been labled al being too black and ghetto. Wow! what a double standard!

Obama

The woman who screamed "socialist, socialist" at Senator Obama in Fayetteville is just showing her ignorance. That he had the grace to speak with her says an awful lot about his character.

she is a mob head.dats the man of the 21st century.just bcoz he is black they dont wanna accept it.racist country

McCain will say anything , fear smear,,, etc. But as I am concern nobody in Canada lost their homes because health care and we are not socialist, for. So think twice if you really want McCain and his bide at the top of the job because I think it's gone be worst as gw

empty suit socialist, funny