October 30, 2008
Posted: 12:11 PM ET

From
 Biden claims that the Republican ticket's economic policies are 'upside down.'
Biden claims that the Republican ticket's economic policies are 'upside down.'

ARNOLD, Missouri (CNN) – Thursday’s news of a shrinking GDP and record quarterly profits for ExxonMobil have added fuel to Barack Obama and Joe Biden’s attacks on John McCain’s economic proposals in the election’s closing days. The developments are evidence, Biden says, that the Republican ticket has their economic priorities “upside down.”

“Here the entire economy of America is shrinking, and the oil companies are, this one in fact, made the largest profit in its history in a quarter,” said Biden. It was reported Thursday morning that Exxon Mobil made $14.83 billion in this year's third quarter.

“Ladies and gentlemen, what more evidence do we need that the Exxon Mobils of the world don't need a tax break?” he asked, speaking to supporters in a half-empty high school gym. “That $4 billion should go to middle class taxpayers, people who need the money. John and Governor Palin have this upside down. They literally have it upside down.”

As he regularly does, the Delaware senator said the election is ultimately about jobs and pointed to a closing Chrysler plant in nearby Fenton where production has halted indefinitely and 1,700 workers lost their jobs after rolling out the last 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan.

“These workers, at that Chrysler minivan plant took pride to the very, very, very end to produce the best product,” said Biden as the crowd applauded.

He added a personal touch, saying that he stood in the parking lot of a Delaware General Motors plant, greeting workers as it closed. “My plant,” he called it. (Biden noted the plant re-opened a year later.)

In the first few minutes of his speech, Biden had lighter moment that was straight out of last weekend’s Saturday Night Live open that made fun of him for going off-message and recognizing people in the crowd during his speeches.

“Now look folks,” he said, preparing to launch into a criticism of McCain before spotting Fox High School’s band. “Hey, I didn’t even see the band up there. Hey, folks, how you guys doing? Thanks for being here. That’s really nice of you. Thank you.

“That’s what you call getting off-message. But I tell ya, you guys look good.”

Filed under: Joe Biden


Paula   October 30th, 2008 2:52 pm ET

Overwhelming majority of our soldiers overseas are voting Obama. What does that tell you???

Obama '08

Matt: honestly   October 30th, 2008 2:52 pm ET

It is so silly to see people defend big oil, the ones responsible for high gas prices. When they post record profits, that is coming directly out of your pocket, whether it goes to improving the business or not, Brenda, it shows that the prices of gas were at an unrealistic level. And you all think it is a coincidence that gas prices are falling right before the election??? I said that was going to happen months ago! It happend in '04 too!

Vince   October 30th, 2008 2:52 pm ET

Bill: The Republicans are even more so relying on the lack of intelligence for their voting base and that of the undecideds…even more so than the Democrats. They both do it but the GOP even more so. Nice try my friend.

Desmond Sequeira   October 30th, 2008 2:51 pm ET

CALLING JOE THE PLUMBER. PLEASE SEE
CNN Fact check: McCain tax cuts give $200 billion to corporations, $4 billion to oil companies?
The Verdict: True. Obama's statement accurately reflects two studies of McCain's tax proposals.
Posted: 06:00 PM ET 28 October, 2008-10-28

john   October 30th, 2008 2:51 pm ET

THANKS BUT NO THANKS

seah   October 30th, 2008 2:51 pm ET

Shows the majority of Dems in the Senate and House, are behind it.

Funny that Soros Bought all bush oil years ago.

Soro's is now the big Money Behind Obama……………………………….

Tom, KS   October 30th, 2008 2:51 pm ET

IMPORTANT INFORMATION:

The Financial Times and now The Economist have both endorsed Obama for the presidency. Why is it none of the Main Stream Media outlets have covered this while allowing McShame and Failin to keep up their attack about Barack being a socialist. Clearly the top economic magazines in this country understand that that is simply not true and that Obama has the right plan to lead us into a more prosperous future. Please CNN start doing your job and call out McCain when he is clearly lying.

Ella   October 30th, 2008 2:51 pm ET

Jeff, if what you say is true about oil company profits= lower gas prices= lower transport prices= cheaper foods, clothes, etc., then why is the price of these things getting/have gotten higher? The only product that has gotten lower is gasoline, and that's because it's an election year. Your "basic train of thought" is flawed. You must be a Republican. Oh, by the way, where are the trickle down jobs?

Sam   October 30th, 2008 2:50 pm ET

all the other posts have closed, I wanted to post something about Sarah Palin. I don't understand how she can be presidential quality for 2012.. Are the Republicans really that stupid? I have not met one republican person yet that thinks she is competent for anything. Who are those people they are talking about in the media..Is it that wierd Mrs Dole or examples of her? I am so baffeld by all this, I cannot believe the ignorance.

two cents-independent   October 30th, 2008 2:50 pm ET

Jeff, your comment does contain validity to it, hence my post about systematic risk. But i'm not entirely certain how many people posting on here have experience/knowledge/education about economies of scale. Keep in mind the affect in the long-term that policies have on the economy, or if they merely can fluctuate the price.

john   October 30th, 2008 2:50 pm ET

THE WINNERS ON THIS ONE ARE MCLAME, BUSH AND CHENEY

Mark   October 30th, 2008 2:50 pm ET

For that one guy who thinks PA is a dead heat, McCain actually lost almost 3 points from the last Mason-Dixon poll

Who is WOWWOW   October 30th, 2008 2:50 pm ET

WOWWOW –

WHAT'S,,,,,,,,WITH,,,,,,,,,,THE,,,,,,,,,,,ALL,,,,,,,,,CAPS,,,,,,,,,AND,,,,,,,,,,COMMAS?

aware   October 30th, 2008 2:48 pm ET

To Independents for McCain: This former democrat and Hillary supporter, now Independent, voted for McCain/Palin 08!

The democrats revealed their dark side in the primaries by viciously cannabalizing their own, Hillary.

Camp Obama is continuing the process of thuggery with Palin. The purpose of ridicule is to elicit an angry reaction but when it is received with a smile the perpetrators appear thuggish! Palin keeps smiling! :)

Anger just breeds more anger as you can see in the blogs by Obama converts! :(

Patrick   October 30th, 2008 2:48 pm ET

There isn't a special tax break going to Exxon; McCain wants to give a tax break to all corporations. We have the 2nd highest corporate tax rate in the world, why would anybody be defending this? The point of being in business is to make money, the higher their profits the better. Lower corporate tax rates mean more jobs and higher pay for the rest of us.

old white woman in NC   October 30th, 2008 2:48 pm ET

Hold the presses! McCain is funding terrorists! If we follow Palin's logic, such as it is, if Obama goes to a party with "a known PLO terrorsit," then funding that "terrorist's" organization to the tune of nearly $500,000 is,,,,wait for it….FUNDING TERRORISM!!!
How will the RNC spin that?

Michael M, Phoenix AZ   October 30th, 2008 2:48 pm ET

You know that the Republicans will NOT even bring up EXXONS profits. Rolling back those taxes to pre-Bush is a good idea. Why the hell did Bush cut taxes on Corporations during a time of "war" as it is called? Who did he think was going to fund the war? The Chinese? Oh, yeah they did, and look at our national debt now.

Obamafied Cheesehead   October 30th, 2008 2:48 pm ET

I heard a choo choo outside and went a took a look. Low behold it was the change train coming my way. On Nov 4th we can all get onboard.

Cartz   October 30th, 2008 2:48 pm ET

OK folks, in a nutshell (it's not perfect) here is how profit is calculated

Profit = (1 – TaxRate) * (Revenue – Fixed Costs – Variable Costs)

So Yes, brenda was in effect correct although her numbers were off and unfortunately, she confused Profit with Revenue. Profit IS what the company keeps, revenue is what the company makes. Exxon has $137.7 Billion in revenue last quarter. It keeps 14.83 billion of that, after tax and expenses.

Heres something to think about the corporate tax rate sits at 35% at the moment. So Exxon made roughly 22.815 Billion (14.83 / 0.65) in profit before tax. With McCain's proposed corporate tax cut (from 35% to 25%) Exxon would have made 17.1 Billion (22.815 * 0.75) in profit. That amounts to a 2.28 Billion dollar tax cut.

Thats a lot of schools, roads or body armor for our troops. Thats 0.02% of the total national debt. Thats almost 7 dollars for every american citizen.

Place your vote based on the facts. Not on empty rhetoric or wild speculation.

Neiki   October 30th, 2008 2:47 pm ET

Now CNN! Your no bias/no bull can stick that in their sock! Again, facts rule in Obama/Biden/s favor, but when CNN's factcheck results are told, will it too end up falling in the misleading file? Oh, please. Americans can see the obvious! We know the facts! The real facts!

Matt   October 30th, 2008 2:47 pm ET

How many political favors will Barack owe for last nights presidential infomercial from the fauxval office? Where did you get all that money from? This will plague his presidency if he wins for sure. I really just don't buy all these poor people somehow just giving 100-200 dollars to a guy for no reason. How is it spreading the wealth around if you give it to a guy and he wastes it on a another self glorification. Two books about himself was not enough now he lessens the presidency by hocking himself on TV like a Shamwow.

Pathetic do nothing ego maniacs should not be elected president. Sorry Barack but this independent says keep the change. And the next time someone asks you a simple question and you give a dumb answer don't attack the person for asking a question and try and publicly mock them for doing so. Who do you think you are anyway? You work for us. We give the power and we can take it away.

demwit   October 30th, 2008 2:46 pm ET

YEAH! A BIG TAX HIKE!! That'll cut into their customer's pockets, errrr.., I mean profits.

Kina, A Veteran in NYC   October 30th, 2008 2:46 pm ET

you hit it right on the nail, Sen Biden…can you folks imagine Gov. Palin trying to make any such analogy in a similar instance for the republican party?…now, that would be something…hahaha…BTW, make sure y'all get out and vote…no matter who you vote for…anyone who's still undecided was never gonna be, anyway…hahaha…

Obama/Biden 08.

Kina.

Tony   October 30th, 2008 2:45 pm ET

GO JOE!

Tom, NY   October 30th, 2008 2:45 pm ET

Google's profit margin is twice that of Exxon… so why isn't google hated like the "evil" oil companies. anyone who thinks increasing taxes on any companies will stimulate growth is too stupid to choose a president. unfortunately people w/ no understanding of economics will vote for obama because he will lead them to the promised land. in reality we will follow the path of social democracies (high taxes, high unemployment, worse ecnomy for everyone).

FLORIDA for Obama   October 30th, 2008 2:45 pm ET

We LOVE Joe Biden and Barack Obama!!

Come on Republicans…..come on over to the Good Side.

Evil is wafting up all around the PALIN/McCain campaign

VOTE OBAMA/BIDEN '08 and '12

capitalist   October 30th, 2008 2:44 pm ET

it doesn't matter how much pride you have in a product. If no one wants it, your company should go away, no matter how big, and government should not support it.

Sorry, but my Toaster Cozy factory employing 10,000 workers needs help too. No one has old toasters. Can I get a bailout or some subsidies or my pride-filled knitters will be out of work and the economy will suffer.

Dan   October 30th, 2008 2:43 pm ET

Profit comes after expenses including taxes.

RealityKing   October 30th, 2008 2:43 pm ET

OPEC LOVES JOE!!!

Observer   October 30th, 2008 2:43 pm ET

The winds of change are near….thank God. Go Obama and Biden!!!!

Proud to be American   October 30th, 2008 2:43 pm ET

Keep tellling it like it is Joe we are so listening ….. you ROCK!

Obama and Biden 2008 & 2012!!!!

white and black for Obama   October 30th, 2008 2:42 pm ET

Right on the real Joe!

two cents-independent   October 30th, 2008 2:42 pm ET

bill, can you clear up your statement on oil companies being taxed based upon consumption? Texas for instance is a franchise tax state, well they changed their tax system this past year to resemble more of a income tax, but still remains a franchise tax.

Independent for USA only   October 30th, 2008 2:42 pm ET

The real problem of GOP is that, they are happy to see Oil business to make a lot of money but they hate to ask them to pay the tax!

Can USA rely on Oil business only? We can not build modern military on petroleum business only! When GOP administration damages all other industry in this great nation, they are weakening our country already!

New-Dem   October 30th, 2008 2:41 pm ET

Jeff, Your argument breaks down as soon as you say that increased profits = lower gas prices. Oil companies have been reporting record profits for 2 years. Where's the price reductions?????

Scott L   October 30th, 2008 2:41 pm ET

So raise taxes on them and the same companies that make dog food, children's ice cream cones and more!

JL   October 30th, 2008 2:41 pm ET

Sen. Biden, you are so correct. One note for those not voting for Sen. Obama cause "he's Black"……………………the money in my 401k was GREEN like the money in yours.

informed voter   October 30th, 2008 2:40 pm ET

Change We Can Trust
Do your homework. Obama said taxes will not go up for those earnig less han 250,000. Will go down for those earning under 200,000$ and Biden when asked said that about a person earning 150,000 said that his/her taxes would go down.
What else can we expect from people like you with the IQ of a rock? You guys are looking for slime where there is none.

WMD   October 30th, 2008 2:39 pm ET

Vince:

Also, there are TWO parts of Congress…

Vince   October 30th, 2008 2:38 pm ET

Jeff: the keyword here is "excessive" profits with a non-adequate share trickling down (except to those oil execs and major stockholders)

Stephanie   October 30th, 2008 2:38 pm ET

Jeff,
The problem is it ISN'T trickling down! With profits like this gas should be $1.00 per gallon if we follow your philosophy.

Matt K. fr. VA   October 30th, 2008 2:38 pm ET

I must correct Judy from PA.
The oil companies reported profit was from the 3rd qtr my dear. That is July through September not May through August. I don't think I have ever heard f that qtr before. I see why you are a McLame supporter.

Frodo   October 30th, 2008 2:38 pm ET

People aren't understanding what companies DO!!! thanks jeff for explaining, and see my comment below about taxing Obama (the biggest campaign fund in history).

It wouldn't matter if one person made 14B in profits. If they have share holders, they all get –a share!! The government is trying to take a bigger share. This means that they are taking from anyone invested in oil…many people are, and so are their 401k and retirement funds. Tax them and you tax us. It's just that most people don't even know it will hurt them.

So you expected say, $1000/month for your retirement, but profit went down because taxes on your fund went up. Now you get $800. But the government in all of it's efficiency will give you back $20 and spread the rest to others.

So, now you're better off…right? because your income is $820 but at least your taxes didn't go up!!!

Bob Indianapolis IN   October 30th, 2008 2:38 pm ET

Looks like the right-wing trolls are all about more corporate welfare for Big Oil….Joe the Conglomerate!

WMD   October 30th, 2008 2:38 pm ET

Vince:

Exactly what has happened in the last two years to stop it?

BTW, of all the Democrats in this election, I would have voted for Obama over all if he weren't so darn unbelievable.

Another grumpy old white woman for Obama   October 30th, 2008 2:37 pm ET

To those of you harping on the money Obama has spent:
That was OUR money ! We, his supporters donated it from our own pockets for exactly what he is using it for. So, unless you sent him money, shut the he11 up. How much did you contribute to your candidate? We Dems knew we would have to combat the filthy mudslinging rhetoric of the GOP. We got what we paid for and would send more if we could.
Stop whining.

Musicpromo Glandale Ca   October 30th, 2008 2:35 pm ET

Come on everyone it's not that hard… Do something for yourself and your grandkids. Vote with your head, stop the lies of the GOP and Oil Companys. Let's them have 2 billion profit not 14 billion. Or maybe we shoud be more like the folks in Alaska who get a check between 1,500 and 2,500 for each man woman and child every year. This is our land too right?

Bushwhacked in Eugene, OR   October 30th, 2008 2:35 pm ET

The timing on this story couldn't be better — just proves exactly what Obama has been saying.

And here's another Oregon voter chiming in on the benefits of voting by mail, as we do here. No whispers of fraud of any kind in the 12 years I've been voting here. No machines. No lines. The ballot comes to my house, I fill it out at my leisure, then either mail it or place it in a conveniently-located official ballot drop box.

It's something every state should consider.

RDS   October 30th, 2008 2:35 pm ET

@Independents for McCain…Yet again you are wrong. That's the combined total for Obama and McCain together. Please stop posting on this blog. Every single day you have to be corrected by someone on here.

Cleveland voter   October 30th, 2008 2:34 pm ET

Someone just posted that Exxon doesn't get to keep all of their profit because they go back into investing in the company. Now that was about the stupidest thing I've ever heard.

Newflash: That's why it's called profit. Econ 101: A profit is what you have left over AFTER you have paid all of your expenses.

Just like the smart dumb people running this country.

Dan   October 30th, 2008 2:34 pm ET

@ W.T.F. (1:56)

I agree with you. But maybe, just maybe, Palin stayed at a Holiday Inn Express last night!

Andy J, NY   October 30th, 2008 2:33 pm ET

what you morons don't realize is that when exxon makes a huge profit, its not 5 guys smoking cigars who make the money… ITS PENSION FUNDS, RETIREMENT FUNDS, and other forms of retirement fund for AMERICAN CITIZENS.

you liberal nuts have no concept of the way business works. i find your uninformed views absolutely pathetic.

Sharon   October 30th, 2008 2:33 pm ET

Good for Jo Biden. Yes, the oil companies have taken Americans for a money ride. We need oil because of cars. We are too dependent upon them. And in turn great profits and control of market. Republicans have enabled this. Bush Administration isn't known as oil administration for nothing!! Time to stop this dependence.

Independent for USA only   October 30th, 2008 2:32 pm ET

Thanks to Bush family, all my friends working for Exxon-Mobil for more than 20 years has got at least million dollars of stock shares now. Many of my friends working in high-tech or other business feared about their jobs now.

It is exactly GOP's type of "REDISTRIBUTION OF WEALTH"! Every single $ is moved to Petroleum business by taking money away from other people.

Bill   October 30th, 2008 2:32 pm ET

Without the tax revenue from oil companies, the government would have to shut down many programs to cut costs. That is why the government (BOTH SIDES) appeases big oil. They need their money.

Vince   October 30th, 2008 2:32 pm ET

WMD: (approriate initials for a "hater") As another poster stated:

"[blaming the Democratic Senate [uh...49% to 49%]…it is like blaming the heart attack you had today on the cheeseburger and fries you had for lunch today and not the excess and poor eating and healt habits you had over the past years."

D B   October 30th, 2008 2:31 pm ET

I guess based on MCain's theory, if Exxon Mobile is making money, they should be hiring a lot of people. I'm an electrical engineer with a Masters degree in Engineering Management with 15 years of experience and I have been unemployed for the last 2 and can't find anyone to hire me. Obviously, these companies are spending their money in marketing and advertising and not in engineering new products, services and research and development…I live in Florida and it would be difficult to relocate because no one is wanting to buy my house. I was responsible and bought a house I could afford at a 15 yrs fixed mortgage at a 4.85% and I dont have a second mortgage or anything like that. I have been paying it with my 401K money and what was left of it was wiped out by wall street..any suggestions? Im soooooooo voting for OBAMA!!!!!

Abul   October 30th, 2008 2:30 pm ET

I am not surprised by this comments here. Some of us speaking in favor of Mobil!! How ignorent !! no wonder why GOP will put Palin in their ticket and people will get excited. We need real education for this people so can open their eyes and see and understand..

Ren   October 30th, 2008 2:30 pm ET

Um… Brenda? I don't think profit means what you think that it means.

You and your ilk are what's wrong with politics nowadays. You have no idea what you're talking about but you spew it loudly and often. Soon the rest of the stoops do the same thing without ever questioning what the meaning is. What we need are thinking people, not stoops!

Jeff   October 30th, 2008 2:30 pm ET

Basic train of thought for people who don't understand. If the oil companies are making money, that is good for each and every person. I'll explain.

Oil companies make profits, in turn gas prices lower. Lower gas prices make transportation of goods less expensive. Transportation has lower costs, your goods whether it be groceries, clothes, etc will be cheaper.

In conclusion, oil runs the economy, it is the trickle down effect that everyone forgets to understand. So when your politicians try to put down the oil companies for making profits they are turning your emotions of high gas prices against you to make themselves look better. Fact is, you should root for the oil companies to make GREAT profits, it only helps you in the grand scheme.

I respect Biden, I respect Obama, but they are only pulling the wool over your eyes. They are first and foremost politicians trying to win a popularity contest, just as McCain and Palin. I vote Republican because I beleive in thier basic beliefs. That's my choice that I will make, make yours on what you beleive is the right choice.

Bill   October 30th, 2008 2:30 pm ET

Brenda, You are dead wrong. The $14.8 billion for Exxon is NET Profit. That is what is left after you subtract all expenses (including taxes, payroll, maintenance, reinvestment) from the Gross Profit. $14,843,000,000 is what Exxon-Mobil gets to split up however they want.

Frodo   October 30th, 2008 2:30 pm ET

There won't be a silent majority voting republican…
but there will be a silent majority voting Libertarian. Shock and Awe.

Bob Barr '08

KNIGHT-7579   October 30th, 2008 2:29 pm ET

The new America. Punish success. Reward laziness.

gl, Pittsburgh   October 30th, 2008 2:29 pm ET

Change We Can Trust – Sorry we did it your way for 8 years and look at this country now!

Sharon   October 30th, 2008 2:29 pm ET

Joe is not educated on the issues and has no clear substantiation for his views. He is against Obama, but he would get more money back under Obama Tax Plan. If he bought his business as he has not sought to do, and which doesn't make $250,000 he would do great. Joe has been giving some very eye oepning ridiculous statements to news media!! He has not hesitation to claim Obama is socialist or communist. Fox News interviewed regarding Israel and Joe said Obama was against Israel. Media said Obama has always said he could support Isreal and asked why he felt Obama is against Isreal. Joe said it was just because of his actions. Unfortunately there have been no actions done by Obama??? Fox new reporter was shocked. Actually said he took no stance on this and murmors dangerous.

Joe may be nice, but he doesn't know what he is talking about. And he is looking for something out of his new found fame.

How can people actually believe what John McCain has started?? Aren't they checking facts or listening?

lilly-FL   October 30th, 2008 2:29 pm ET

Here is the latest poll data for PA: go Obama go

Polling Data
Poll Date Sample MoE Obama (D) McCain (R) Spread
RCP Average 10/23 – 10/28 — – 52.3 42.8 Obama +9.5
NBC/Mason-Dixon 10/27 – 10/28 625 LV 4.0 47 43 Obama +4
Morning Call 10/24 – 10/28 610 LV 4.0 53 42 Obama +11
CNN/Time 10/23 – 10/28 768 LV 3.5 55 43 Obama +12
Rasmussen 10/27 – 10/27 500 LV 4.5 53 46 Obama +7
Marist 10/26 – 10/27 713 LV 4.0 55 41 Obama +14
InAdv/PollPosition 10/26 – 10/26 588 LV 3.8 51 42 Obama +9

Bill   October 30th, 2008 2:29 pm ET

Oil companies margins are less than what most companies are. The numbers are huge because of economies of scale.

The oil companies also pay their share of taxes.

The individual states tack on more taxes for consumption. Why don't you complain about that?

When will it sink into your head that consumers ultimately pay taxes, not companies. Tax the oil companies more and it eventually trickles down to you, the consumer.

The Democrats are counting on you being naive and believing everything you here from them, all for your vote.

informed voter   October 30th, 2008 2:28 pm ET

Absolutely right. These guys have brains. McCain camp with Palin and Joe the Plumber have a collective IQ of a rock.
Obama/Biden 08

Edwina   October 30th, 2008 2:28 pm ET

Juan Carlos,
Please learn to write. There is no record, besides McCain's own delusion, of this 'creeping definition of wealth.'
30-m-voted PA,
47 to 43, a dead heat. A margin of error does not simply mean that you get to add points to your candidate's score. That is not a dead heat. To quote Joe Biden "Where I'm from" that's a win for Barack Obama.
Walt from Texas,
Thank you for your honest, racist view. If it weren't "Black or White" we would not even be having this silly discussion. John McCain represents a failed party and a failed philosophy. Unfortunately for your party, people see beyond the obvious and vote for what is right, just and true.

Independent for USA only   October 30th, 2008 2:28 pm ET

GOP did a terrific job to redistribute the wealth to Petroleum businessmen! Everything else is down, high-tech, auto makers, banks, etc. Bush Petroleum family are very happy now!

Vince   October 30th, 2008 2:28 pm ET

Brenda: profits are what is left after you take out your expenses to run a company.

Independents/Change: I don't mind Obama spending quite a bit of money all us little supporters sent into him if it gets him elected and proper change is brought about. It is called an investment. An investment for American and our future (of our children hopefully).

Stop being so narrowminded.

karen-phoenix   October 30th, 2008 2:28 pm ET

Walt–we are already a solistic country—police, fire dept, national guard, schools, transportation(bus, trains)!! We just do not have health care!!!!!
God bless Obama/Biden

Alberto   October 30th, 2008 2:28 pm ET

First, profits already acount for salaries, taxes, investment, etc, that is why they are called profits. It is insulting to the american people that in this crisis EXXON is reporting the LARGEST profits ever, impossible to justify you McCain – Bush lovers!
Second, It amazes me the lack of mathematical knowledge of people regarding the tax break plan of Obama. If you make less than 150K, you got a break. If you make between 150K and 200K, you got a break for your first 150, and got no break for the excess to 150K: the overall picture is that you got a break (but not for the excess of 150). If you make between 200K and 250K you got a break for the first 150K portion, no break for the portion between 150K and 200K, and you pay more taxes for the portion in excess of 200K. The BREAK EVEN Point is 250K. In other words, those making 250K will see 0 increase and zero reduction (the reduction in their first 150K = increase in the last 50K; remember no increase in the remaining 50K). If you made more than 250K you got an increase… It is this so difficult than americans cannot understand?

Michael watching from Canada   October 30th, 2008 2:27 pm ET

Speaking of oil…..

I am an engineer who has been involved in alternative energy technologies for over twenty years. Since when does being the Governor of an oil-producing state make them an expert on energy?

Please do not think for a second that drilling for oil somehow gives someone knowledge on energy technology expertise, especially alternative energy.

It is an insult, I repeat, an insult to remotely suggest that Palin is an expert on energy.

Palin’s claims suggesting that, since she is the Governor of an oil drilling state, makes her an expert on energy is on the same level of naivety as her claims that she has extensive foreign policy experience with Russia due to Alaska’s proximity to Russia!!

Let’s see (consistent with how Ms Palin pretends to establish credentials)…..

……if she were Governor of Michigan, does that mean she would be an expert in manufacturing cars!

aware   October 30th, 2008 2:27 pm ET

Bumbling Biden buzzes for obfuscating Obama!

Obama the community organizer has put together a coalition of the have nots, the have some want mores, the left-wing elites, the young and all of the blacks in each of these groups!

He has rubbed their discontent raw and then presented himself as "the one" with the answers!

Great show but if he becomes POTUS he will have to keep all those angry people happy by fulfilling his promises plus! :)

Is Obama a demagogue or a demi-god?

Amanda   October 30th, 2008 2:27 pm ET

Noah, I think you are the one who needs an education. This 'democratic majority' you speak of isn't much of one – 49 Democrats to 49 Republicans. 2 independents who caucus with the Democrats are counted – one is Liebermann. Also, just a little 8th grade civics lesson – a republican president can veto anything a democratic congress puts forward. The problem is that Congress is so partisian now that they can't vote on a bill for the good of the people, but rather the party of the senator who sponsored the bill. If it takes a democratic MAJORITY (60) in Congress to start getting stuff done, I'm for it.

Baze   October 30th, 2008 2:27 pm ET

Oil companies are like the air giants in total recall

ONE NATION

Candy West Virginia   October 30th, 2008 2:26 pm ET

Rethuglicans = domestic terrorists! rethuglican policies = corporate (for the rich only) socialism!

Chewbacca   October 30th, 2008 2:26 pm ET

I am voting for Chuck Baldwin and don't give a care what Obama or McCain say.

WMD   October 30th, 2008 2:26 pm ET

You all are hilarious!! Blaming the executive branch for a failure of the responsibilities of the Legislative branch. Congress controls the budget, the President only PROPOSES! And Congress, last time I checked, was controlled by democrats. For the last two years! Oh wait, they were fixing what republican congresses have done right??

Oh how I wish for the days of "The buck stops here!" Take some responsibility and fix the mess! Stop blaming everyone else.

ANGIE   October 30th, 2008 2:26 pm ET

Like Hillary Said Its time to get the Oil Men Bush/Cheny out of the White House!

Nick   October 30th, 2008 2:26 pm ET

Brenda, a profit is a profit. Those things you mentioned, the overhead, that's already paid for before they figure out the profit.

Lilarose in Bandon, Oregon   October 30th, 2008 2:26 pm ET

VOTERS!

There is NO REASON why we should be having electronic voting machine glitches around the country!

In fact, there is NO REASON why we should be using electronic voting machines!

Just because we have the technology doesn't mean it is the best way to do this job.

In Oregon we vote by mail. There are no polls to go to, no hanging chads (we don't have any chads), no bad weather problems, no computer glitches–no problems at all, and we have had over a decade of experience voting by mail.

I got my ballot in the mail last week, completed it at my leisure, and mailed it back two days later.

All is well.

When Oregon tallies all the votes-by-mail, the news media can expect to get the results within an hour! They love it

And I love vote-by-mail!

Why doesn't your state vote by mail?????????

proud army and navy mom   October 30th, 2008 2:25 pm ET

I AM ALL FOR TAX INCREASES ESPECIALLY FOR THE 40% WHO CURRENTLY DONT PAY TAXES. I MAKE OVER $250K A YEAR AND WILL BE HAPPY TO PAY MORE AS LONG AS EVERYONE ELSE IS BEING EQUALLY "PATRIOTIC" WITH ME.

Illinois Blue Dog   October 30th, 2008 2:25 pm ET

To "30-m-PA-voted McCain"
- I grew up in Pennsylvania and most of my relatives still live there. You are an idiot if you think McCain stands a chance of winning PA. Pennsylvania hasn't voted for a Republican President since 1988. That Mason Dixon poll is the ONLY poll out there showing such a result. Every other poll (except Rasmussen which has Obama up 7) has a Obama leading anywhere from 9-14 points; and the realclearpolitics average has him up 9.5 points. Even if McCain gets it close, there is no way he can overcome the huge Obama surge in Philadelphia and Pittsburgh (that surge is the same reason Bush lost PA in 2000 and 2004). Keep smoking your pipe dream – PA will never go red. McCain has been wasting his time and money there for the past couple weeks while the rest of the electorate slips out of his grasp

karen-phoenix   October 30th, 2008 2:25 pm ET

This 40 year long republican is voting Obama/Biden to save this country for my grandchildren and we need to become independent of oil!!! McCain is backed by big oil!!! Obama's plan of 10 year program to get us off oil is great!!! I live in AZ and even some golf carts out here are running on solar!!!! Solar–wind and we can be a strong country again!!!
God Bless Obama/Biden for a future!!!!

Shelley ~ ID   October 30th, 2008 2:25 pm ET

They left out the part about Exxon paying $32 million in taxes.

BushCo   October 30th, 2008 2:25 pm ET

Money trickles up, not down. Shut down this monster Freemarketron!

Christine CT Ind.   October 30th, 2008 2:23 pm ET

Walt-
It's not YOUR kind of "plain black and white". Keep it to yourself.

tulsa   October 30th, 2008 2:23 pm ET

30-m-PA-voted McCain,

LOL…. Keep dreaming.
We the people are going to run you bastards out of town. We will not stand for the politics of fear and division anymore.
TAKE OUR COUNTRY BACK!
VOTE OBAMA BIDEN 08!!!!!

Independents for McCain   October 30th, 2008 2:23 pm ET

Guess who else is making money………Obama. The campaign has now spent over a billion dollars. What happened to "spread the wealth"? Based on Obama's policy, Obama should give money to McCain so he can prosper as well. It is amazing that the "Economy" is the number one factor in this election, yet Obama's campaign has spent the most ever in campaign history. It seems to me that Obama is out of touch with the reality of America today. I am shocked that the Democratic party is focused on Company's and American's that busted their butts to be successful, and are now making it punitive to live the American dream. I hope there is a silent majority like me that is voting REPUBLICAN this time around and prove the polls wrong.

Change We Can Trust   October 30th, 2008 2:23 pm ET

Tax cuts for those making less than $250,000…ooops now $200,000…Oh Biden says $150,000.

This is going down faster than the market and my 401K.

Difference between Obama's driveway speech with the now famous Joe the Plumber and his convention rallies =

Joe = UInscripted, stammers and can't answer the question
Rallies = Teleprompter, smooth as silk

frank   October 30th, 2008 2:22 pm ET

Thank you to all the peoples at CNN to inform the people here and around the world like the progam ( Fact Check ) and ( Keep Them Honest ). Once again Thanks CNN.

go away mongers- Ventura,CA   October 30th, 2008 2:22 pm ET

That's the bottom line! gop- UPSIDE DOWN!
Obama= CHANGE WE NEED!

Commonwealth of Virginia   October 30th, 2008 2:21 pm ET

Not Joe the Plumber but Joe the Biden.

OBAMA/BIDEN 08

Frodo   October 30th, 2008 2:21 pm ET

seems to me if you want to look at record profits, you should tax Obama's campaign. They've made $600M. More than any candidate in history. If you're takin' oil's money, you 'oughta be takin' Obama's.

Say 70%. That would leave him $180Million. So it doesn't really hurt him, because he's still rich….right….? Then the $720Million could go to the public finance for campaign funds and fund McCain, Nader, Barr, Baldwin, McKinney.
THAT would be fairness….right….? So Obama would have less money than others even though he raised more. THAT'S the problem with Obama's plan. It wouldn't even work for HIM!!

Obama The Extemist   October 30th, 2008 2:19 pm ET

News poll of likely voters shows McCain-Obama race tightening: Last week, Obama led 49-40 — but, heading down the stretch, McCain is closing, 47-44.

STILL MEASURING THE DRAPES OBAMA?

The American people are starting to see what you really represent for the future of our great country. Your a radical man that dodges questions on your ideology.
Ayers, Khalidi, Wright – Great group of friends Obama.

Vote for the American Dream
Vote McCain

clarence   October 30th, 2008 2:19 pm ET

I am very disappointed that CNN would allow John McCain to bash Barack Obama after Obama's video Wednesday. This was done at no cost to McCain as opposed to Obama's 3.5m investment. I think that this was poor strategy on CNN and Larry King's part. Essentially McCain got a free ride by CNN to do nothing else to rididule Obama and accuse him of lying. Shame on you!! Fortunately I don't think this interview did nothing to raise McCain's standing in the campaign for the Presidency'

two cents-independent   October 30th, 2008 2:19 pm ET

bill, it's called systematic risk. True Exxon is only part of the market risk because they're a dealer of the commodity, but as a whole they're linked to systematic risk.

Vince   October 30th, 2008 2:19 pm ET

Bill: The oil companies' profits are excessive in that they are not really benefitting the employees too much. The execs are experiencing windfall raises and bonuses but the employees are getting their "standard of living" wage increases as usual. Also, don't you get the feeling that we are being bilked at the gas pump?

Or should I ask if you are some CEO or exec at an oil company. Hey, pro-capitalism is fine but not if blindly followed. It can be tweaked to benefit more people (i.e. our tax system).

cindy   October 30th, 2008 2:19 pm ET

MCain trying to tie Obama to a so-called non-suporter of Isreal — well gues what people—McCain also has ties to Khalidi. The International Republican Institute, a pro-democracy organization, gave $448,000 to a group that Khalidi founded in 1998, when McCain was the chairman of the institute.

former gop   October 30th, 2008 2:19 pm ET

AMERICA LET'S BAND TOGETHER AND SUE THEM FOR PRICE GOUGING!!!!

WHO'S WITH ME?!!!!

bruce   October 30th, 2008 2:19 pm ET

How much of the gross income went to exploration, drilling and alternative sources? That is a number I would like to see.
Seems to me that this profit will line the exeuctives pockets with bonous'.
As for those who say the Dem have been i power for 2 years and look what happened…apparently you do nto understand that it was a cumlative thing that caused the economoic melt down, the repubbs were in power for 6 of those years, and were deregualting.
As another poster here said…it is like blamming the heart attack you had today on the cheeseburger and fries you had for lunch today and not the excess and poor eating and healt habits you had over the past years.

Biff   October 30th, 2008 2:18 pm ET

BILL said
So its a bad thing that Mobil made money? It would have been better if they lost money? Lets see…….. what happens when a company loses money? Oh ya they lay off people. I guess having a company lay off people is better than having them make money. heh?
___________________________________________________

no bill.. its not bad…. except when they GOUGE the public. and when we give them corporate WELFARE via not needed tax breaks… so what do you have agains business paying their fair share in taxes? why do they need MORE tax breaks…… where are the jobs they supposedly created from the tax breaks they currently have?

p.s. most of the companies announcing lay offs RIGHT NOW.. are not doing it because they lost money.. yahooom and american express laid off while profitable simply to increase profit… yep.. very american.

MIKE chicago   October 30th, 2008 2:18 pm ET

To Patmos Isle
You are the most ridiculous person i have ever seen blogging…You said electing muslim? First to clear your head from the confused state. There is nothing wrong in being a muslim. Secondly the same idiots like you are saying Sen Obama attended a churh for 20 yrs….can anyone be more stupid and confused at the same time?
Finaly since its proven over and over that Sen Obama is not a muslim neither you or your co plain idiots bloggers who gave us Godful W Bush in 2000/2004 can point out to us one good thing his Anti-christian vision as given us in 8 yrs. "Do unto others what you will them do to you…" that is straight from the bible. Iraq never hurt us Bin laden did and he his still running free in Afganistan..thanks to mr maverick and W Bush

INDEPENDANT VET   October 30th, 2008 2:17 pm ET

So Joe , what you want them to do . Split there profits with you and Barrack .

We know that will not work . For your Party has admitted that your Dear frind is not a Citizen of the USA >

See Joe ,all the Lies you and the DNC up to now > Now hurry Up an get some one that is eligebale.

Bye Bye Barry , take AYERS < WRIGHT < AN TONY WITH < and have your PARTY with PELOSI an rest Of Hollywood.

Charlie Bradley   October 30th, 2008 2:17 pm ET

Keep PA from going red
Keep ANY state from going red

THESE TWO("That one" and Biden) are the two we need in the white house…….FIVE MORE DAYS people…fight for them for FIVE more Days!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

former gop   October 30th, 2008 2:17 pm ET

OUTRAGEOUS that anybody would support McCain after seeing the oil co's profits. WHO ARE YOU DOLTS?!

I ALREADY VOTED FOR OBAMA! CAN'T WAIT TIL THE 4TH!!!!

Tom, NY   October 30th, 2008 2:17 pm ET

if biden is dumb enough to believe this crap it is scary… we do not live in a socialist country that expropriates the profits of its companies… of course exxon made a record profit – oil was at a record high. it has since fallen by over 50% so exxon will not be making a record profit this quarter. rather than stifling economic growth to give a handout to people who don't pay income tax to begin w/ why not cut corporate taxes to stimulate jobs.

cindy   October 30th, 2008 2:16 pm ET

I am so tired of the same ole statements being made by Mccain supporters….Calling Obama a muslam and such! It is sooo stupid, Obama is no differnt than the Clintons and you know what America was safe, and the money was rolling for eveyone..not just the super rich! No matter what the republicans say you can not argue with numbers…$200 billion deficit under Bush Sr..then $200 billion SURPLUS under Clinton..We will do it again when a demorcrat is in the oval office..no matter what his skin color!!
Obam/Biden 2008

RThomas   October 30th, 2008 2:16 pm ET

Irony. Redistributing the wealth to the wealthy? Laughable. Do you have rocks in your head?

WOWWOW   October 30th, 2008 2:16 pm ET

O B A M A———–BIDEN———–CAN' T,,,,,,,,,,,GET,,,,,,,,,,,PAST,,,,,,,,,,,,,50%

DESPITE,,,,,,,,,,,OVERWHELMING,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,MONIES,,,,,,,,,,,,,MEDIA,,,,,,,,,,,,

BIAS,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,AND,,,,,,,,,,,,A,,,,,,,,,,,,,TROUNCED,,,,,,,,,,,,,ECONOMY,,,,,,,,,,,,

REMINDS,,,,,,,,,,,,ME,,,,,,,,,,,,,OF,,,,,,,,,,,,,,JIMMY,,,,,,,,,,,,CARTER,,,,,,,,,,,,,,

DAYS,,,,,,,,,,,,REMEMBER,,,,,,,,,,,,THOSE ? ? ?

DSW   October 30th, 2008 2:16 pm ET

Trust the Repugs to base a whole 2 weeks of campaigning on a down right lie, Joe the Plumber is pure fiction – HE approcahed Obama, HE was mentioned numerous times by McCAIN during the debate – he's someone who isn't who he says he is, isn't certified, doesn't earn enough to buy a business, actually works for someone else – could it be any more obvious that he was a plant! How can people be so stupid,
It's ok for the the Repugs, gutter media to go after Obama for being a "muslim", but if the media takes a second look into the Joe the Plumber who is a liar – that's totally out of bounds!
IT'S INSANE!
People are losing their jobs
People are losing the medical insurance
People can't afford staple foods
People can't pay for gas to get to work
And we have to listen to Joe the Plumber
The world is laughing at this campaign!

Dave g, minneapolis   October 30th, 2008 2:15 pm ET

So the oil companies made profit…many people's 401k's have oil in them. Tax them and you tax us (it's just hidden so the sheeple don't think you're taxing us). So the Obama campaign made $600M, should the government take 70% of that, then redistribute it to public campaign financing?

Yes we need change, and McCain and Obama have proven that they aren't the ones who will bring it.

Only Bob Barr is against these bailouts and redistribution of wealth from the 2party McBama candidates.

Send them a message and vote for Bob Barr.

Bill   October 30th, 2008 2:15 pm ET

Why is Biden so giddy about the bad news regarding the GDP but mad as hell about a company making a profit. And what is too much of a profit? We are afterall a capitalist….not a socialist……country correct? Or am I wrong about that?

Formerly undecided voter   October 30th, 2008 2:15 pm ET

But Biden on tells 1/2 the story.

Exxon Mobil also paid record amounts of TAXs !!!!!

Come on Biden TELL THE WHOLE STORY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

And what else Biden doesn't tell you is that if YOUR 401K has some Exxon Mobil stock in it, that he and Obama will be STEALING that money from YOU and giving it someone else through SOCIALISM!

Dee   October 30th, 2008 2:15 pm ET

Hey Juan Carlos,

Spell then speak!!!!!!!

Debi   October 30th, 2008 2:15 pm ET

Sarah Palin the Alaskan Lobbyist: I agree.
The news that Exxon is making record profits should make Palin happy. Now she can spread the wealth back to Alaskans.
It is a sad state when a person that considers themselves an Alaskan, but allows Exxon to spill thousands of gallons of oil on their shore line and is still in bed with them.
Palin keeps taking blood money (I call it blood money because animals and the environment died) because of oil companies.

Exxon should take their profits and use it to clean up the mess that has been off the shore line of Alaska since 1989.

jess   October 30th, 2008 2:15 pm ET

Black Horse
The third horseman, riding the black horse, is called Famine. The black color of the third horse could be a symbol of the dead.

Revelation 6:5 – 6:6 – “And when he had opened the third seal, I heard the third beast say, Come and see. And I beheld, and lo a black horse; and he that sat on him had a pair of balances in his hand. And I heard a voice in the midst of the four beasts say, A measure of wheat for a penny, and three measures of barley for a penny; and see thou hurt not the oil and the wine.’”

God help us if the anti christ, the false prophet is elected

Ben   October 30th, 2008 2:15 pm ET

Joe – please stop saying literally so often.

Olivia   October 30th, 2008 2:14 pm ET

Biden have said some pretty harsh things about his friend McCain ever since he got the vp spot. A lot of what he's said directly attack the integrity and honor of McCain. I'm very curious to know what their relationship will be like in the future when they come in contact in their respective roles.
As a true maverick, I hope McCain will reach across in forgiveness and show Biden up for the petty, superficial, pandering big-mouth that he is. Remind Biden that he was resoundingly rejected by the people in his presidential run by only getting 0.9% in Iowa.

Agbons David   October 30th, 2008 2:14 pm ET

Better economic policies under Obama/Biden. It's good logic to pay more when you earn more.

bill   October 30th, 2008 2:14 pm ET

why is cnn spending sooo much time on joe THE SOOO CALLED UNLICENSED PLUMBER.he is a disgrace just like mccain palen.i for one am sick and tired hearing from these idiots. ITS THE ECONOMY STUPID. OBAMA 08

Amy   October 30th, 2008 2:13 pm ET

Unless Joe the Plumber has stock in Exxon, he's not going to be any better off under McCain than he was under Bush!

And since he couldn't pay his property taxes or pay for a license, I"m guessing the Bush/McCain tax plan wasn't helping Joe too much…….

joe the tax collecter   October 30th, 2008 2:13 pm ET

sorry joe's been in my office all day sorry mc same

Alex   October 30th, 2008 2:13 pm ET

It is high time and long-delayed intervention for us Americans to free ourselves from oil dependence. Our oil addiction has resulted in our weakened economy and has exposed our national security at greater risk. By the way I am looking at things, it does appear that our economy is directly proportional to oil/gas prices. The one and only people who profited from our addiction are the oil/gas companies. As McCain advocated…… "we need to stop sending money to countries who doesn't like us". Tax breaks for oil companies should then be eliminated, right??? Afterall, the bread and butter of the "countries who doesn't like us" is oil. The same profits or money they get from us is what is being used against us. It comes across as a simple equation to me. What do you think, Sen. McCain??

Chipster   October 30th, 2008 2:13 pm ET

"…GDP experienced a record 55 straight months of growth under the Bush administration"

Good for you, Noah, and your stocks – well, oops until recently when the bubble burst. So, how much of that GDP do you think the local cab drivers pocketed? How about the waitress who's grocery bill just doubled because of fuel prices? Oh, that doesn't count in the new and improved market basket. Nobody sees the real inflation numbers because magically, fuel and food are no longer in the basket!

It's a numbers game to you but it's empty bowls for too many Americans!

Biff   October 30th, 2008 2:12 pm ET

JUAN…….CARLOS…….. FOR…..THE……RECORD………..THE…….PARTY

YOU……..SUPPORT……….WILL……..NEVER……..ALLOW…..IT……TO…..

BE…….RUN…….BY……..A………GUY……….NAMED……….."JUAN"………

JUST……..THOUGHT……YOU…….MIGHT…….LIKE……TO………KNOW…….

P.S………TYPING…….LIKE……THIS…….IS………………………….STUPID.

RealityKing   October 30th, 2008 2:12 pm ET

Obviously Doofus Joe thinks it's better that we are sending billions to dictators and tryrants the hate America…

THE END OF AMERICA by OBAMA   October 30th, 2008 2:12 pm ET

Biden,like obama, is completely divorced from the truth.

By the way, it has been proven that Bill Eyers wrote obama's book,Dreams/Father. I'm not surprised.

Gill   October 30th, 2008 2:12 pm ET

JUAN C AR LOS October 30th, 2008 1:51 pm ET

YEAH,,,,,,,,,,,,RIGHT,,,,,,,,,,,,JUST,,,,,,,,,,LIKE,,,,,,,,,,YOUR,,,,,,,,,,,TAX,,,,,,,,,,,,

HIKE,,,,,,,,,,,,WAS,,,,,,,,,,AT,,,,,,,,,,,250K,,,,,,,,,,,,,THEN,,,,,,,,,,,200 K,,,,,,,,,,,,,

THIS,,,,,,,,,,,WEEK,,,,,,,,,,BIDEN,,,,,,,,,,,,SAYS,,,,,,,,,,,,150K,,,,,,,,,,,AND,,,,,,,,,

THEN,,,,,,,,,,,,ONCE,,,,,,,,,,,ELECTED,,,,,,,,,,,WALLA,,,,,,,,,,,,,WE,,,,,,,,,CAN'T,,,,,,

GIVE,,,,,,,,,YOU,,,,,,,,,,,A,,,,,,,,,,,,TAX,,,,,,,,BREAK,,,,,,,,,,,BUT,,,,,,,,,,,,,WE,,,,,,,,,,

NEED,,,,,,,,,,,,ALL,,,,,,,,,,,OF,,,,,,,,,,YOU,,,,,,,,,,,TO,,,,,,,,,,,,,BE,,,,,,,,,,,,,,

MORE,,,,,,,,,,,,,PATRIOTIC,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,WHAT,,,,,,,,A,,,,,,,,,,,SHAM
———————————————————————————————–
this was a out of the context comment John McCain amplilfied for his propaganda, and I can clearly see it got into you. McCain smears and lies do work after all on some people

The Stallion & The Champ vs. The Old Mule and Winky Half-baked Alaska   October 30th, 2008 2:11 pm ET

Trust me, there's more upside down about McCain than his economic policies.

Kim J   October 30th, 2008 2:11 pm ET

Before bashing Exxon check your 401k and see if you own any Exxon stock within it. It might be the only thing propping you up right now. Think about how much more you will pay at thee pump when Joe gets his windfall tax in there. Also, the more they make the more taxes they pay. Think people think.

Dan   October 30th, 2008 2:11 pm ET

Noah…ha! If you want to cite history lets do so correctly. We were in a recession at the end of Bush1 and now also at the end of Bush2. Under Clinton, a Democratic president, the economy flourished and we had a 33 year low in welfare payments (I site this cause you right wingers always say the Dems will hand out welfare checks by the barrel full when more payments are made under republican rule). ANY economist will tell you the recent crash in the economy was A LOT more than 2 years in the making so your reference to the Democrats controlling Congress two of the last EIGHT years really holds no water at all. Nice try but you obviuosly do not know what you are talking about….+

D-MI   October 30th, 2008 2:10 pm ET

Walt in TX:

You sir, are what is absolutely, frighteningly WRONG with America.
Democracy and Socialism are NOT mutually exclusive. They aren't even in the same ballpark. They aren't even the same GAME. "Democracy" is a system of governance. "Socialism" is an economic model. Witness Canada, most of Europe, etc. They are both Democracies AND "Socialist". The fact that the political right, and their clueless minions (ignorant, enducated people of ALL races, and the "conservative" movement) have managed to keep this country complicitly ignorant for almost a century through lies and fear have resulted in a country where morons like you can toss around words without understanding their implication or definition to justify your own poverty and exploitation.

I much rather be called a socialist than to live the life of a clueless, expolited sheep…

Tony, NC   October 30th, 2008 2:10 pm ET

You have been in the Senate for 36 years! Single handedly spending billions in pork… Go away doofus!!

women 4 Obama   October 30th, 2008 2:10 pm ET

I don't understand why there are still people who support McCain/Palin ticket. McCain is an old, angry man who is in the pocket of big oil companies and is absolutely clueless about economy and Sarah Palin is simply a joke. Instead of talking about policies to fix the economy, this morning McCain again talked about Joe the unlicensed plummer who has hired a publicist recently!!!! The most ridiculous part was when he called for Joe and he wasn't there lol

Vote smart
Obama/Biden’ 08

Betsy   October 30th, 2008 2:10 pm ET

Brenda, what part of net profit is so hard to understand. Net profit is what is left after paying all the expenses of keeping the business going. This is even after paying the obscene salaries of the corporate officers (part of the operating expenses).

gl, Pittsburgh   October 30th, 2008 2:10 pm ET

Noah – It looks like next Tuesday you and the Republicans will be looking for the BRIDGE TO NOWHERE TO JUMP OFF OF!

This is the real "Joe"   October 30th, 2008 2:10 pm ET

I love THIS Joe!

Allan   October 30th, 2008 2:10 pm ET

Half empty, huh? You mean half full, right?

Like the half-full halls that McCain speaks in, right?

Like the rally today where even Sam-Joe the sham-plumber didn't show up, where 4,000 of the 6,000 in attendance were school kids bussed in to go see Grandpa McSimpson shake his fist at the clouds?

I hope they at least got a piece of hard candy and a quarter for stopping by the old folk's home.

pam Eugene OR   October 30th, 2008 2:09 pm ET

How on earth can they justify these profits except to their shareholder. I do not own their stock so their huge profits do not qualify them for any tax breaks at all!
Vote now if you can and vote for the Democrats. They care about your future unless you are a CEO.

John , IL.   October 30th, 2008 2:09 pm ET

This is exactly what is wrong with "Top down economics"
Exon posted $14B in profits last QUARTER, PROFITS. So
I guess under Mccains theory we will see .75 a gallon gas
any day now? We should give them additional tax cuts, maybe
THAT will trickle down to main street…..RIGHT!!!

Troy   October 30th, 2008 2:09 pm ET

Hey Brenda… Profit is called profit for a reason. It is the money that a company makes AFTER all of their operating expenses. You must be thinking of REVENUE. Whichever "business" person it was who told you that should probably find another line of work.

Dixie AZ   October 30th, 2008 2:09 pm ET

It makes me shake my head. Republicans who are supporting Sarah Palin feel free to Jump on Joe Biden. Joe the senator has honor, something Palin doesn't understand.

Jack Jodell, Minneapolis, MN   October 30th, 2008 2:09 pm ET

I'm with Biden 100%. The only people who benefit tremendously from Exxon Mobil's obsessive profits are their fat cat board of directors, their large stockholders, and the ad agencieswho produce, and TV networks who show, their lying propaganda ads around the clock. All the rest of us get screwed!

two cents-independent   October 30th, 2008 2:08 pm ET

Brenda it was 14.83 billion in net income that includes your numbers you suggested. Your net income will include a tax provision that typically calculated based upon FAS 109 or a deferred income tax. Based upon what is computed as deferred tax a portion of that is broken out for current income tax expense, of which the company will make an adjustment to "true up" their accrued and deferred accounts.

Grumpy Gramps and the Diva are wrong for the USA   October 30th, 2008 2:08 pm ET

For all the idiots who are falling for this "socialism" crap..

Obama's plan is to redistribute the DEBT burden, not wealth. Money is not going to anyone, it goes to paying off the national debt created by Bush!

McCain's plan gives a REWARD to those who created this economic disaster!

Look at Exxon's Profits yesterday! McCain wants to give these guys a tax break!

WAKE UP!

Blue, Blue, Blue   October 30th, 2008 2:08 pm ET

Joe Biden: Ready to lead the country.

Sarah Palin: NOT READY to LEAD the COUNTRY!

Carlos   October 30th, 2008 2:08 pm ET

People critical of the Obam tax plan seem not to have readi it. These individuals are like the rest of the republican "flock" who run with what they are fed by the campaign rather than reseaech,for themselves, to get the truth.

SOUTHERNER   October 30th, 2008 2:07 pm ET

Brenda you are an idiot, learn a little about accounting. Profits come after accounting for income taxes and every other type of tax. It is called accrual method fo accounting. Dum dum dum dum

proud army and navy mom   October 30th, 2008 2:07 pm ET

A COMPANY MAKING MONEY…….STOP THE PRESS ,WE CANT HAVE THAT QUICK LETS TAX THEM TO DEATH WE WILL TEACH THEM RIGHT JOE. WHAT ARE THEY THINKING, THAT THEY SHOULDNT MAKE MONEY.

Sarge in Florida   October 30th, 2008 2:07 pm ET

JUAN GO BACK TO MEXICO WHERE YOU BELONG AND KEEP YOUR FOREIGN NOSE OUT OF AMERICAS BUSINESS…ALSO THE CUBANS WHO HAVE COME HERE GO BACK TO CUBA AND TAKE BACK YOUR COUNTRY. AFTERALL I WOULD THINK THAT YOU CAN OVERTAKE A 80 YO MAN…GET SENATOR MARTINEZ OF FLORIDA TO JOIN YOU THIS TASK.

Dee   October 30th, 2008 2:07 pm ET

Joe the Senator is absolutely right.

Obama/Biden '08

lil   October 30th, 2008 2:07 pm ET

Biden will make a great VP he is such a good and honest guy.
I voted 2 weeks ago and I am still happy about my choice of
Obama/Biden.

Joe got it right the first time.   October 30th, 2008 2:07 pm ET

Sen. Joe Biden was one of the few Democrats who sided with credit-card companies that were trying to make it harder for people to declare bankruptcy.

At the time, his son was a consultant to Delaware-based credit-card company MBNA. MBNA employees also contributed heavily to the senator's election campaigns.

Jeffrey Birnbaum, managing editor of digital news for the Washington Times, says the issue raises questions about whether Biden is as much of an outsider to Washington's ways as the Obama campaign portrays him to be.

Joe stop pointing fingers at your socalled buddy McCain. You are no better if not worse…

MIchigan Mom   October 30th, 2008 2:07 pm ET

Unless Joe the Plumber has stock in Exxon, he's not going to be any better off under McCain than he was under Bush! And since he couldn't pay his property taxes or pay for a license, I"m guessing the Bush tax plan wasn't helping him too much…….

Pepou   October 30th, 2008 2:07 pm ET

Brenda :

Are you working for Exxon or are you just plain (palin) dumb ?

Retired USN, Norfolk VA   October 30th, 2008 2:06 pm ET

Way to go smokin Joe!!!!

Dan   October 30th, 2008 2:06 pm ET

Hey Jaun…stop getting all your facts (for lack of a better term) from Fox news. The Obama/Biden tax plan HAS ALWAYS SAID $200,000 3% increase for INDIVIDUALS making over that amount and $250,000 per family making over that amount. If you are going to try and talk down about your opponent you should at least get your facts right…then again the republicans have shown time and again that facts dont mean a whole to them in this election, and that is exactly why they are going to lose!!!!!!!!!!!!

GW is to Blame!   October 30th, 2008 2:05 pm ET

Hey Noah, you are blaming the wrong people. Since you have a computer why don't you look at the real facts?
Your IGNORANCE and lack of intelligence is showing!
By the way – BRENDA – how much is 7% of 14.83 billion? Poor oil companies, Brenda feels sorry for you.
When will you people wake up?
I fear when you finally do you won't know what hit you.

Bill   October 30th, 2008 2:05 pm ET

So its a bad thing that Mobil made money? It would have been better if they lost money? Lets see…….. what happens when a company loses money? Oh ya they lay off people. I guess having a company lay off people is better than having them make money. heh?

Tiff of Lithia Springs   October 30th, 2008 2:05 pm ET

I noticed that too Juan. But the Bush Administration has left this country in such a mess that no one will be exempt from tax hikes until we pull our troops from IRAQ and start putting that money to use at home BUDDY.

Pepou   October 30th, 2008 2:04 pm ET

Exxon SUCKS. period. No tax breaks for them. Biden is right.

republican voting for obama   October 30th, 2008 2:04 pm ET

joe, you are right on the money.

i don't see how the republicans can use joe the plumber. joe will lose with the republicans. his tax will go up as the oil companies get a tax break.

mcbush and his palin girl is LIEING.

obama

jm for sc   October 30th, 2008 2:04 pm ET

Go Joe!!!!

Obama/Biden 08

SOUTHERNER   October 30th, 2008 2:04 pm ET

Praetorian is off his meds, you did not see that Biden voted against it. Your heroe McCain is a traitor to all of us for handing our tax dollars to a terrorist organization. McCain is a coward.

Scott   October 30th, 2008 2:03 pm ET

Yes please give Exxon another $4,000,000,000 dollars McSAME. After all, they do need to keep their profits up, something they will be able to do under John McSAME.

No more, go Obama/Biden!

bill pike   October 30th, 2008 2:03 pm ET

republicans now have 3 JOE'S. Joe the six pack, Joe the plumber? and JOE McCARTHY. as a christian i am sick to hear what is coming out of mccain/palin's mouth–i hope they don't eat with those mouths. Now you know why congressman lewis said mccain/palin was equal to the ax handles given out by the gov. of georgia a mcbush ago.

Dave   October 30th, 2008 2:03 pm ET

Is it Tuesday yet? Get Obama and Biden into office already!

two cents-independent   October 30th, 2008 2:02 pm ET

It's hard to find a McCain supporter who will actually have an objective conversation about the candidates. There's also Obama supporters who refute objectivity as well but appears to be harder for McCain supporters. And the democrats did not have a voting majority in the Senate the past two years. And it's considered an optional majority with 49 democrats because of Bernie Sanders and Joe Lieberman who are considered independents but for organizational purposes caucus with the Dems.

P.S. the Republicans have 49 members as well.

Lawrence   October 30th, 2008 2:02 pm ET

That's $14.8 Billion in PROFIT – everything after operating expenses are taken out of the equation.

That's absolutely incredible. How many additional jobs did Exxon-Mobile create this year & how many jobs have higher gas prices cost us?

Say it ain't so Joe   October 30th, 2008 2:02 pm ET

Comeon!

Joe Biden "Obama not ready to lead"
Joe Biden "Obama will be tested if elected"
Joe Biden "It's Patriotic to pay taxes"
Joe Biden " it's 150K for higher taxes"

Joe- how can you keep anything straight.. You backtrack on all your statements.

Darrell   October 30th, 2008 2:02 pm ET

I am really happy see this come out today and hopefully those idiots who are still sitting on the side line undecided and see why they need to change this country back to the people not the RICH and GREEDY. As an Arizonan I am going to predict MCLIAR will lose his home STATE OF ARIZONA by a silm margin to OBAMA-BIDEN. MCLIAR took for granted that the people of this great state would stand behind him in his ugly campaign and his digusting choice for VP. That lady is not ready for the WHITE HOUSE. We do not need more of the BUSH tatics this country is hurting and we all need to stand by each other no mater if we are Dems, Rep, Indpendents or what ever. We are the UNTIED STATES OF AMERICA! NOT RED OR BLUE STATES!

mav, FL   October 30th, 2008 2:02 pm ET

'JUAN C AR LOS' no wonder you take time to understand things …. clearly seen in your message with significant BREAKS. Well, if you only listen to Hannity and Limbaugh, you will ALWAYS get half or BROKEN picture. If you can read …. go to Obama's website and read it for yourself his TAX plan … coz for sure you missed at-least 10,000 speaches Obama gave explaining his tax plan.

cindy   October 30th, 2008 2:02 pm ET

McCain is again trying to paint Obama as a terrorist but the facts show that McCain also has ties to Khalidi. The International Republican Institute, a pro-democracy organization, gave $448,000 to a group that Khalidi founded in 1998, when McCain was the chairman of the institute.

Swampy   October 30th, 2008 2:01 pm ET

@Noah: "The Democrats have held the majority in Congress now for 2 years and suddenly the market falls out. "

Sorry, Noah, but that's like blaming your heart attack on the cheeseburger you ate for lunch today while ignoring the years of eggs, bacon, and cheese. It is the long term effect of the gone-wild Republican policies that have allowed this mess to happen.

jason, tx   October 30th, 2008 2:01 pm ET

You tell um Joe!!!

Tiff of Lithia Springs   October 30th, 2008 2:01 pm ET

The Republican ticket should be ashamed of themsselves. I hope that the workers of exxon mobil are being taken care of.

M.lyons   October 30th, 2008 2:01 pm ET

Thank God you're not Joe the Plumber. (whew)

Obama Biden 08

Daisy   October 30th, 2008 2:00 pm ET

Palin. Keep attacking like a mad dog. i want to ensure Barrack get elected to oval office. Palin. keep talking.

Maggie from peterborough   October 30th, 2008 2:00 pm ET

Where are Palin's medical records showing she only gave birth to 4 children

John the Gulf War Vet   October 30th, 2008 2:00 pm ET

Senator McCain you are no hero, you are a terrorist.

Your campaign advisor was a Saddam Hussein lobbyist for 5 years.
You pal around with Gordon Liddy, domestic terrorist.
You are a member of "The Project for a New American Century" – a radical extremist terrorist orginization.
Your VP candidate's husband Todd Palin is a domestic terrorist in the Alaskan Independence Party.
You have given $500,000 to PLO, a group that McCain himself says are terrorists.
You have met with Chilean Dictator Pinochet, a terrorist.
Your using FOX NEWS, the Bush Administration, The Justice Department to commit voter intimidation & suppression is a act of terrorism.

John McCain you are a disgrace to your uniform.

Al   October 30th, 2008 1:59 pm ET

At least Joe Biden is *real* and down to earth unlike Palin who is all about *me* and her 15 minutes of fame every day!!
God help america if you have to listen and look at this blabbering
fool in 2012 if she runs!!
she can ride back to Alaska on her moose any time she feels like it
No one will miss her including half the republican party!!

Michael   October 30th, 2008 1:59 pm ET

Five more days until we can finally see the light at the end of the tunnel. It's been a difficult 8 years for most of us. The Wall Street CEO's made off like bandits, but we have to look forward.

This has been an administration of greed and power, Bush has looked after his buddies ONLY and the rest of us were taken it. Before you vote this time Republicans really think about what you're doing to the rest of the country. You have a chance to continue to do the same old thing, or get this country back on track.

I talked to a cab driver the other day who said he didn't feel good about voting for Bush the second time, but he did, and now he's sorry. He's definitely going to vote for the Dems this time.

GW will walk off into the sunset after leaving our country in such a mess. I hope I never see his stupid face again. Do us a favor George, leave now, we don't want you. Leave, just go and never come back–you're a disgrace to this country.

Txnerd   October 30th, 2008 1:59 pm ET

Tell it like it is Joe Biden! We're paying too much for gas as proven by record oil company profits. Another example of the Bush administration stealing from working Americans!

N. Paul   October 30th, 2008 1:59 pm ET

brenda

You're an idiot. What exactly do you think a profit is?

sandee in Portland   October 30th, 2008 1:59 pm ET

@ Noah…."our GDP experienced a record 55 months straight growth under Bush administration".

You are right, it did. however, I think you are the one that's not intelligent. The problem, is that it was false growth with inflated prices in everything from houses to stocks, and when the balloon burst, that false growth went in the tank and we are now in an adjusting market to bring things back to a more realistic value.

You can't blame the democratic congress for this. It happened because of the bubble that was created by the lending institutions which the republicans gave free rein to with their taking away of regulations.

As long as you have one party in as president and the other party in control of congress there will be gridlock and nothing will get done. After all the President has the power to veto anything that comes out of congress.

Greed is not good   October 30th, 2008 1:58 pm ET

The REAL Joe is Biden not the FAKE PLUMBER that flakes out and no shows for stump speech rallies.

Michael, FL   October 30th, 2008 1:58 pm ET

Five more days until we can finally see the light at the end of the tunnel. It's been a difficult 8 years for most of us. The Wall Street CEO's made off like bandits, but we have to look forward.

This has been an administration of greed and power, Bush has looked after his buddies ONLY and the rest of us were taken it. Before you vote this time Republicans really think about what you're doing to the rest of the country. You have a chance to continue to be selfish, or get this country back on track.

I talked to a cabdriver the other day who said he didn't feel good about voting for Bush the second time, but he did, and not he's sorry. He's definitely going to vote for the Dems this time.

GW will walk off into the sunset after leaving our country in such a mess. I hope I never see his stupid face again. Do us a favor George, leave now, we don't want you. Leave, just go and never come back–you're a disgrace to this country.

No longer concerned independent in tEXAS   October 30th, 2008 1:57 pm ET

I DONT UNDERSTAND WHY CNN, FOX NEWS ARE SO BLATANTLY BIASED AGAINST OBAMA..SOME ONE PLEASE TELL ME THERE ARE PEOPLE WHO ARE ON OBAMAS SIDE TOO..

No Hillary = No Obama   October 30th, 2008 1:57 pm ET

Upside down?? You know what's upside down – spending multi-millions of dollars on a calculated prime time, exploitative piece, hand picking families from swing states with hard luck stories so as to get yourself elected and then drawing people into your narcissistic fantasy that "we can change the world". That's about as upside down as it gets.

Jack, Fort Myers   October 30th, 2008 1:56 pm ET

We can't wait for all those new jobs to open up in McDonald's and Wal-Mart for us Joe… keep on plugging away!!

ANDY DAAS   October 30th, 2008 1:56 pm ET

McCain and Pain are FOR THE RICH ONLY!

Judy from PA   October 30th, 2008 1:56 pm ET

Not that I am for the oil companies, but the quarter they reported on was the one from May till August. Remember, this was when oil was at $140 a barrel. Comparing those earnings to the current situation is like comparing apples to oranges. But then again, what would Joe Biden know about the economy.

W.T.F ?   October 30th, 2008 1:56 pm ET

With five days to go, we now learn that Sarah Palin will get a "crash course" on foreign policy and national security? I mean, what in the world??? How is this supposed to help? Using that kind of "brilliant thinking", it means that if I wanted to perform a heart transplant, all I have to do is spend a few hours with a heart surgeon and voila, sedate the patient and open them up? What if I told you I just spent a few hours with a pilot and I felt ready to fly a plane, would you come aboard?

Well, apparently that's how little John McCain thinks of you, your family and this country!

John McCain = RISKY, DANGEROUS, UNSTABLE, UNSTEADY AND RECKLESS!

You Want A Team That Puts Country First? Vote Obama / Biden

CNN, PLEASE POST MY COMMENTS! THANK YOU.

Ed, Santa Fe NM   October 30th, 2008 1:54 pm ET

You said it, Joe!

Praetorian   October 30th, 2008 1:54 pm ET

Hey…Joe….
What about the new Toyota and Honda facilities our government approved to manufacture cars inside the US to directly compete against good paying American jobs–they don't have nor allow Unions?

What have you got to say about that Joe–since you voted for it?

NR   October 30th, 2008 1:53 pm ET

Obama/Biden talk issues and they get mocked by GOP supporters while McCain/Palin mocks the other ticket and they get praised for it. We used to see this kind of things in the third world but I guess there is no such thing one. Our campaign as as worse as any third wold country now.

Say it ain't so Joe   October 30th, 2008 1:53 pm ET

Joe you bumbling fool. Keep saying the true things: Obama is not ready to lead. Obama will invite testing.

Joe you are as wishy washy and flip floppy as they come. You sir are not fit either. Grow a pair and stop changing your rhetoric

Paul, TX   October 30th, 2008 1:53 pm ET

I am a republican..have been my whole life!

If you are like me, and are worried about your kids future..then the only way to get out of this mess is to vote Democratic! History has proven it. I dont want my children so suffer and voting for the sake of a political party this year would be stupid..

It's much bigger then red or blue! Palin terrifies me.. bad choice! The only safe choice, it seems, is to vote for Obama/Biden. I'm willing do that for my kids..and for and grandkids!

tulsa   October 30th, 2008 1:53 pm ET

Walt,
Can you define those two?
lol, didn't think so.
Niether could McCain.
Vote Obama!

Ron , West Coast   October 30th, 2008 1:53 pm ET

No more tax breaks for EXXON MOBIL, or any other oli company …….
Joe Biden knows what he`s talking about, on the other hand Ms. Moose – Trap, looks like a disaster waiting to happen ……..

Debra   October 30th, 2008 1:53 pm ET

"I hope we shall crush in its birth the aristocracy of our monied corporations which dare already to challenge our government to a trial by strength, and bid defiance to the laws of our country. "
-Thomas Jefferson

America has lost its way…as it is proven time & time again that profits
have become more important than people.

I implore all the Obama-Biden supporters, get off your butts!
VOTE HARD, VOTE EARLY

Obama/Biden '08

Connie, NC   October 30th, 2008 1:53 pm ET

Vice President Joseph Biden. Sound great to me. He's the only Joe I want to hear about.

Obama/Biden 08

Glenn in California   October 30th, 2008 1:52 pm ET

The choice couldn't be clearer. As a matter of fact, there is only one choice: Obama & Biden.

Joe the Biden, you're great. Joe the Plumber, not so much. I see Joe the Plumber was a no show for McCain today. Puts the exclamation mark on the pitiful-ness of the McCain campaign. R.I.P.

President-elect Obama/VP-elect Biden '08 & '12

30-m-PA-voted McCain   October 30th, 2008 1:52 pm ET

New poll shows dead heat in PA!!!!! Yes. PA is going red.

NBC News/Mason-Dixon Obama 47, Mccain 43, margin of error +/- 4

PUMA!

JM   October 30th, 2008 1:52 pm ET

Baah Baah Baah….

Pete   October 30th, 2008 1:52 pm ET

"Clueless" Joe Biden!

irony   October 30th, 2008 1:52 pm ET

thank you Joe for telling it like it is. We don't need to continue redistributing the wealth to the wealthy. How much has the Big Oil industry helped the economy? None. They have done the opposite of help the economy they have driven the economy into the ground with record high gas prices and record corporate net profits for the second quarter in a row. Good job America continue to conserve. Cut one out of five trips to the store a week and save 20%. Walk instead of drive. Properly inflate your tires. Take a bus one day a week. Turn your thermostat down one degree. Conserve Baby Conserve. The less we use the less gas will cost. If we vote Obama in he will start the process of converting to the fuel of the twent-first century and then they will be selling oil for $10 a barrell. Keep up the good work America and continue conserving. Conserve Baby Conserve.

Kate   October 30th, 2008 1:51 pm ET

Love you Joe!

tulsa   October 30th, 2008 1:51 pm ET

Noah, you and your neo-con fascist buddies might as well pack it up.
If the market is so afraid of Democratic rule, why has it shot up along with Barack's polling numbers?
You too IronyMan. If you're not smart enough to understand that he's saying these entities don't need tax breaks, well, I just feel sorry for your kids.

Pete   October 30th, 2008 1:51 pm ET

I thought that He stopped letting Biden talk. Did He pull his arm out of his behind and let him go on a little rant today?

NO Palin   October 30th, 2008 1:51 pm ET

Love him…He can Joke about himself!

Bulldog   October 30th, 2008 1:51 pm ET

McCain doesn't have any different economic policy than Bush besides his government freeze which will cause evan more problemswith his approach. In fact he wants to take the bush tax cuts even further and give the wealthy like his wife Cindy and even bigger tax cut while leaving out those who are struggling from paycheck to paycheck. McCain and Palin have a horrible plan and that is why they are out there calling names like elementary children.

Kristen   October 30th, 2008 1:51 pm ET

LOVE Biden and love the fact that he can make fun of himself!

JUAN C AR LOS   October 30th, 2008 1:51 pm ET

YEAH,,,,,,,,,,,,RIGHT,,,,,,,,,,,,JUST,,,,,,,,,,LIKE,,,,,,,,,,YOUR,,,,,,,,,,,TAX,,,,,,,,,,,,

HIKE,,,,,,,,,,,,WAS,,,,,,,,,,AT,,,,,,,,,,,250K,,,,,,,,,,,,,THEN,,,,,,,,,,,200 K,,,,,,,,,,,,,

THIS,,,,,,,,,,,WEEK,,,,,,,,,,BIDEN,,,,,,,,,,,,SAYS,,,,,,,,,,,,150K,,,,,,,,,,,AND,,,,,,,,,

THEN,,,,,,,,,,,,ONCE,,,,,,,,,,,ELECTED,,,,,,,,,,,WALLA,,,,,,,,,,,,,WE,,,,,,,,,CAN'T,,,,,,

GIVE,,,,,,,,,YOU,,,,,,,,,,,A,,,,,,,,,,,,TAX,,,,,,,,BREAK,,,,,,,,,,,BUT,,,,,,,,,,,,,WE,,,,,,,,,,

NEED,,,,,,,,,,,,ALL,,,,,,,,,,,OF,,,,,,,,,,YOU,,,,,,,,,,,TO,,,,,,,,,,,,,BE,,,,,,,,,,,,,,

MORE,,,,,,,,,,,,,PATRIOTIC,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,WHAT,,,,,,,,A,,,,,,,,,,,SHAM

Sarah Palin the Alaskan Lobbyist   October 30th, 2008 1:50 pm ET

You know I was thinking and thinking and just couldn't put my finger on what was so dishonest about Sarah Palin then I heard her 'energy speech' yesterday and it hit me like a ton a bricks….

Palin is a lobbyist for Alaska. She is lobbying to bring more jobs to ALASKA, that's it! She knows nothing about the other 'lower 48′ nor does she has an interest in learning unless it will benefit Alaska.

She's playing a lying game with the American people and sadly the Republicans are so full of lobbyist they haven't noticed she's taking them for a long ride right into the pockets of Alaska.

cindy   October 30th, 2008 1:50 pm ET

The Democratic independent group Vote Vets has a harsh new trio of mailers out, going to voters in Ohio.

They feature young veterans attacking McCain for allegedly betraying their cause on education funding, funding for equipment, and the economy.

The one above hits McCain for opposing Jim Webb's bill to increase funding for sending veterans to college, which McCain warned would reduce their incentive to become non-commissioned officers.

Tom in S.A.   October 30th, 2008 1:50 pm ET

Joe, How much did the gov't make off of Exxon, probably about 3X what Exxon did and they did all the work, gov't did nothing but sit back and collect. Of course all those whining about their 401K's losing $ should be happy since the probably own some of Exxon's stock. Sorry but that's good news.

Joe The Engineer   October 30th, 2008 1:50 pm ET

and whatever happened to summer gas tax cuts, that is McPalin, they dont even remember what they promise.

Winnie Hussein . . . in Montana   October 30th, 2008 1:50 pm ET

I really like him, even though he gaffes sometimes and McCain, et al. take advantage.

CNN why did you have to mention the gym was half empty? You could have said half full, which sounds more positive, or you could have not mentioned it at all. You don't even say where he is, but you note that the gym is half-empty. Geesh.

Jim Ellis   October 30th, 2008 1:49 pm ET

There is a comedy bit about legendary sportscaster Harray Caray going off message quite a bit. "Hey look at the kid in the sombrero!"

vahe   October 30th, 2008 1:49 pm ET

100%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%% right

Patmos Isle   October 30th, 2008 1:49 pm ET

This whole election is a farce. Don't believe the hype. The two major parties are playing us for suckers. They have backed us into this corner over the last 8 years and now that we are desperate, they expect us to make the wrong choice in electing that Muslim in sheep's clothing…Don't do it!!

Anonymous   October 30th, 2008 1:48 pm ET

We love you Joe- Keep talking!!!! The Voter's are listening…..and we are going to have a landslide on November 4th.

Obama/Biden '08

tulsa   October 30th, 2008 1:48 pm ET

Love ya Joe!
Don't ever stop being yourself. Let the nut-jobs try and bash you for speaking your mind, we've got your back.
You and Barack, all the way.
We the people will take our country back Nov. 4!
Vote Obama/Biden!

Walt, Belton,TX   October 30th, 2008 1:47 pm ET

It is plain as black and white.

Socialism or Democracy?

Your choice!

Stephanie   October 30th, 2008 1:47 pm ET

Hmmm…I haven' theard anything from the McCain/Palin team about this economic news. I wonder why…well, all you have to do is go to the fact checker on cnn to see how much additional money they plan to give the oil companies. Oh, that must be why they aren't talkin' 'bout it!

Angie   October 30th, 2008 1:47 pm ET

RIGHT ON VP BIDEN!

carlo   October 30th, 2008 1:47 pm ET

Gotta love Joe! Unlike Palin, Joe makes gaffes. Palin is just dumb.

Michelle in AL   October 30th, 2008 1:47 pm ET

…and the gas and oil companies need tax breaks why??

Lesley   October 30th, 2008 1:46 pm ET

His off comment messages to people in the crowd are heart warming. It makes people realize that he actually looks around at the people who are gathered there and pays them the recognition they deserve for their support. It's a common touch that people can relate to.

brenda   October 30th, 2008 1:45 pm ET

take away all the taxes that go to governement (huge percentage), the cost of investing back into the business, payroll, maintenance, equipment and on and on and how much of that profit does exxon really get to keep? a hell of a lot less than mentioned in this article but biden and obama wont tell you that. i think that the last time i read, exxon only keeps about 7% of their profits and the other 93% goes to keeping the business going. any business person will tell you that . so lets hear the truth instead of biden and obama saying that exxon made killer dollars and giving the impression that it is all pocket money. dare cnn to post this so early to the election. i know that cnn doesnt want ANYONE at this point to say ANYTHING anti obama economic plan. the people have the right to know!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Glenn; Bakersville, NC.   October 30th, 2008 1:45 pm ET

Now this guy is ready to be 1 heartbeat away from the presidency. Only 4 more full days to go!

IronyMan   October 30th, 2008 1:45 pm ET

What? Joe Biden slams the very source of the redistributable wealth? Now that's irony! He should be glad they are making so much. More to be redistributed.

Brian   October 30th, 2008 1:44 pm ET

Joe the Biden shows up!

Noah   October 30th, 2008 1:44 pm ET

Joe, you truly are not intelligent. Our GDP experienced a record 55 straight months of growth under the Bush administration. The Democrats have held the majority in Congress now for 2 years and suddenly the market falls out. That should tell you something Joe. The market is afraid of Democrat rule because they increase taxes and penalize companies for making money.

jaye   October 30th, 2008 1:44 pm ET

The white house has made sure the big oil company's make the big bucks.
Having a "joe six-pack ex governor" in the white house has been proven a BAD idea….hasn't it Mr. Bush.

greedyboy   October 30th, 2008 1:42 pm ET

100% right. It is time for Change.

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