November 4, 2008
Posted: November 4th, 2008 06:28 PM ET

From
 Antoine Owens-Davis, 19, and D'nise Smith, 18, wait to vote for the first time in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
Antoine Owens-Davis, 19, and D'nise Smith, 18, wait to vote for the first time in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

In early exit polling, first-time voters are breaking overwhelmingly for Sen. Barack Obama. 72 percent report say they voted for Obama, compared with 27 percent for McCain. First-time voters compose 10 percent of the total national electorate thus far.

Filed under: Barack Obama • John McCain


holly   November 4th, 2008 6:49 pm ET

GObama!

Sensible Joe   November 4th, 2008 6:49 pm ET

Quite frankly, Tat, on the university campus where this middle-aged registered non-partisan voter works, fresh-faced first-time voters working for the Obama/Biden campaign showed were surprisingly well-informed, thoughtful about their decisions and had done their homework. Their colleagues at the McCain/Palin booth were less convincing, more emotive and came across as having politics rooted in Mom and Dad's choices. A good many young voters aren't quite as immature and driven by zeitgeist as you seem to think.

Rebecca   November 4th, 2008 6:49 pm ET

I'm not american but i really really wish I was so I could vote, and it would totally be OBAMA!!!
Living in another country where it doesn't really matter for me, I can still se Obama is the best! He can lead the country indeed, FOR the people, and not BECAUSE OF the people.. I'm sure now everybody can still raise as much money as they want, but poor people will be actually taken care of now too!

Tom in Texas   November 4th, 2008 6:49 pm ET

To all first time voters. Thank you.... Thank you. I have waited 60 years for this night. If Obama wins, it will have been well worth the wait.

leenie   November 4th, 2008 6:49 pm ET

Mt 18 year old son voted for the first time and voted McCain. He voted early.

hello   November 4th, 2008 6:49 pm ET

first time voter. GO OBAMA!

McCain Man   November 4th, 2008 6:49 pm ET

Obama is a yes man. McCain is experienced. Democrats use smoke and mirrors to make you feel important. You think they care about the older generation? They want your vote. You think they care about the younger generation? They tell you what you want to hear to win your vote, while McCain is going to tell you what he'll do.

Confused   November 4th, 2008 6:49 pm ET

If Obama stands for change why did he pick a 30 year insider as his VP. Curious why Biden has been under wraps lately! Just wait the only change you will see is in increase in taxes.

Cory   November 4th, 2008 6:49 pm ET

"Fire it up... ready to go!" Change the world...

Argent   November 4th, 2008 6:48 pm ET

It's a promising number, but psychological analysis suggests young adults' politics have always had a pattern of on average being heavily left wing in the late teens to early 20's, and then the average is heavily right wing into the mid 20's, evening out by the time the generation hits the 30's.

Newly adult young people have independent ideals coinciding with their starting life, and those in their middle 20's who are entering the workforce and some even starting families, look for more comfort in conservative values.

Daisy   November 4th, 2008 6:48 pm ET

If I can vote for right now, I am definitely will vote for Obama. I like him. Even I have the status in US, i am not allowed to vote yet, so.....I just pray Obama will win and bring us the change we hope.
OBAMA!!OBAMA!!OBAMA!!

Anthony   November 4th, 2008 6:48 pm ET

obama is the least qualified candidate in history. And he has a horific economic plan. If he wins, God help us all. McCain 08

Mark Briggs   November 4th, 2008 6:48 pm ET

I voted 100% Democrat due to the fact that Republicans let greed and corruption go unchecked in their own party. If Republicans had broken ranks to fight corruption and hold themselves more accountable I would have done my usual and placed a mixed ballot. There was scandal after scandal and the Republicans just held strong with the buddy system, well the buddy system goes both ways so the more they stick together the more I see them as one.

Lee   November 4th, 2008 6:48 pm ET

I must admit. He might take it all the way to the house. I never thought in my life time I would see a black President!!! I talked with my partents and they said the same. We as a people has come a long way from the 60's thank god!!!

oh yeah this was the frist time I voted YES WE CAN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

White guy from VA   November 4th, 2008 6:48 pm ET

Finally i can say.... The MAN is keeping ME down.

go blue PA!   November 4th, 2008 6:48 pm ET

Tat (#36)- On that note, if McCain wants more votes he should put voting machines in nursing homes, trailer parks and mental institutions- that's were the majority of his potential voters are lurking.

Mz Leah   November 4th, 2008 6:48 pm ET

Look at the turn out. Imagine the count had the GOP not "created" new ways to purge the rolls. Early this morning Karl Rove said that Sen. Obama will win by a landslide & get about 337 electoral votes.
When Rove says McCain is a loser...the jig is up ya dig?

To all Republican die-hards   November 4th, 2008 6:48 pm ET

To all the die-hard Repubs posting angry nonsense on this and other sites: would you please stop foaming at the mouth? only TIME will tell if you are right, so relax and be patient. Dems say that Obama will usher in a new and bright chapter in the American story; that we will see more cooperation, economic stability and social justice. Repubs have been listening to maniacs like Hannity, Coulter and Limbaugh, so they think that the world is going to come to an end. Let's just watch and see, shall we? And in two years, we can meet back here and talk it over calmly. For today, however, you may need some Valium to cope with the Democratic LANDSLIDE that is about to unfold.

Toooo late....I voted Dem!   November 4th, 2008 6:48 pm ET

It's on!!!

Marian from Scottsdale Arizona   November 4th, 2008 6:48 pm ET

It's about time we get rid of the Bush republican dynasty which has brought this country to it's knees. I am so sick and tired of looking at and hearing John McCain and Palin I could scream!! Instead of playing on our fears and promoting hatred and ignorance, this country needs the leadership of Obama! Thank God we have a real leader, I hope it's a LANDSLIDE!!

Minh   November 4th, 2008 6:48 pm ET

Some reasons for Obama to win:
- Many first time African-American voters vote for Obama
- Obama is a great speaker.
- Economy is bad and people want to change.

angel   November 4th, 2008 6:48 pm ET

I don't think it should be any concern as to whether every black person in America voted or not, BOTTOM LINE is they voted, and the rights have been exercised many many years ago, when it was almost impossible to vote, in previous elections why vote, when things mounted up to be so twisted. Don't be mad because black people are voting, be proud that everyone in AMERICA is doing their part.

Sue   November 4th, 2008 6:48 pm ET

I haven't voted in years , but I did go out this morning and vote for Obama... my stepson just turned 18 this summer and he voted Obama also... as well as my husband... I'll be watching the election tonight. NJ better give it to Obama

Dan   November 4th, 2008 6:48 pm ET

End Democracy Now.

Juanita   November 4th, 2008 6:48 pm ET

Plenty of people I know in Michigan changed from McCain to Obama because he pick Palin... I'm a woman and she is not the right choice for vice-president. McCain is very old and you mean to tell me that if he dies Palin would be President.... I DON'T THINK SO.... What would you rather have in office.... Intelligence or Stupidity.... Hell... we have stupidity in office now.... WE THE AMERICAN PEOPLE NEED CHANGE... NOW.

westpark   November 4th, 2008 6:48 pm ET

I don't dislike McCain, but once he made his Vice-Presidential choice a "gimmick" that was the end of him for me. If he was the man he was in 2000, or even 2004 and stuck with his own ideals rather than selling out to the Republican Party completely, maybe I could have stuck with him.

Anthony   November 4th, 2008 6:47 pm ET

Go McCain!!!!. If Obama Gets It We Can All Quit Work And Stay Home A Get A Check. And Live off Food Stamps. Come on Its Called The "WHITE HOUSE"!!! McCain McCain McCain 08 08 08

Ayslinn   November 4th, 2008 6:47 pm ET

Hey Tat.

What are you implying? That the opinions of those, say, 30 and under, don't really matter? So sayeth the heavily condescending tone of your post.

However, these voters DO matter, and so do their opinions... so sayeth the equally-weighted vote every American over the age of 17 recieves.

You don't get more points for being older. Or ruder.
Every American gets a vote.

Amber   November 4th, 2008 6:47 pm ET

I'm 22... this is my 2nd chance to vote in the presidential election and I'm absolutely HONORED to do so. I voted for Barack Obama because he moves people and if we're ever going to get out of the mess Bush has made for us – we need everyone to pitch in and get involved. I believe in Obama's power to inspire America to do so.

GO OBAMA/BIDEN '08!

Laken   November 4th, 2008 6:47 pm ET

I am a first time voter and my vote went to McCain. I can see how biased this website is with their numbers. At the university that I attend, the majority of students are voting for McCain. Many young people out there are attracted to the "hype" of Obama. I am sure many first time voters want to go with what is trendy, and with what their friends say, which tragically is Obama. However, I speak for myself and my friends when I say I am an informed first time voter who thinks John McCain should be our next leader, or we are going to be in a great deal of trouble.

Rachellie   November 4th, 2008 6:47 pm ET

This is my 3rd presidential election and the last I am going to be voting in. This is the First time I was ever able to vote for a candidate that I wanted to vote for and not just the lesser of 2 evils. Thank you for putting yourself on the ballot Mr. Obama, you made this girl very happy!

Eric   November 4th, 2008 6:47 pm ET

Susie

Interesting how when the numbers were in your favor since oh, George Washington's time it was all good but not that Blacks are mobilized you are bitter cause some of em 'never voted a day in their lives'. Exactly why we need a transformational figure in the White House. GOBAMA!!!!

Jay in Florida   November 4th, 2008 6:47 pm ET

Susie this comment by you got my attention "We all knew that every single black person in America that has never voted a day ....". Black Americans have voted for White Americans for decades. Now there is a bi-racial, highly intelligent, faithfully married man as a candidate and you have a problem with people voting for him. Go F yourself.

flo   November 4th, 2008 6:47 pm ET

Amercans – if you want us to look up to you again – don´t vote for that war-head McCain. We have seen enough of these old men in Power all around the world.

sincerly
yours Europeans

mike   November 4th, 2008 6:47 pm ET

obama!!! from a struggling 1st time voter with a 2 yr old and a house mortgage that will triple this year if i dont refinance

WW   November 4th, 2008 6:47 pm ET

To those that lament that they fear that Obama will not be able to deliver on his promise for 'change': the fact that Obama ran a campaign focused on issues rather than an erratic collection of seemingly random smears is already a testament to his argument for change. I think he generated so much enthusiasm because his campaign was actually efficient and mostly clean of the attack-style politics that have left us all so numb and cynical. Also, he seems genuinely interested in reaching across the aisle to conservatives, unlike Bush who promised to be a 'uniter' but instead established one of the most divisive administrations in recent history. Finally, I think he has generated so much enthusiasm because he is NEW. We're all tired of the same people – do you realize you'd have to go back to the 1976 election to have a presidential campaign ticket without a Bush or Clinton?! If we had embraced Hilary we would be embracing the notion of political dynasties, which is not the american way in my opinion. Obama is eloquent and NEW. Those are my thoughts on why he has generated so much enthusiasm

Lucia   November 4th, 2008 6:46 pm ET

Today, November 4, 2008, will mark a historic point in history when Obama wins. I am still not old enough to vote but hear the cry of a 11 year old "Obama!" We might not know if he will truly make a difference but we can surely hope that he does. Today a Democratic party president will be elected and later he will lead this country. I know that Obama will win! You can see right when you look at him that he has what it takes to lead this country and that he has the knowledge to go along with it. Dont vote for someone you may later regret. Vote for the one who will make a change and no matter what happens he will always be there to do something. Obama will win! Obama will win!

Sincerely,
Lucy

Ken in NC   November 4th, 2008 6:46 pm ET

FIRST TIME VOTERS are not stupid like McCain thinks they are and McCain is not as smart as FIRST TIME VOTERS.

Matt Salit.   November 4th, 2008 6:45 pm ET

Obamas not gonna change crap for the good…Its a subconcious thing, this change…cause he himself is african american, which itself is change. Making you believe his promises of change and ignore the facts against him. Iam dissappointed. He shouldnt even be qualified to run for president, he couldnt even get a job at the LAPD cause his ties to Ayers, i dont understand why nobody cares about that, wich is why he'll probably win, cause no one give a hoot

nikki   November 4th, 2008 6:45 pm ET

This close-to-middle-age white woman voted for him too! So did my elderly parents, both of whom are registered republicans.

OBAMA/BIDEN!!!

Jeremy   November 4th, 2008 6:45 pm ET

Why do people think that voters are turning to Obama because its "cool"? Maybe voters actually see that the economy is in the tank? Or maybe voters realize we have had the most corrupt 8 years of government in our Nation's history? It isn't just about likening McCain to Bush. Its the whole Neo-conservative platform that is turning people away. Not to mention the radical right and its anti-freedom stance with regard to abortion and gay marriage. This is America people, you can do what you want with your own body. I am an independent and I believe in conservative values. But I do not use the bible as my voting guide.

Susie   November 4th, 2008 6:45 pm ET

I am balck and all I am saying is my people should have stood up and done this a long time ago.

sjdlajlksdfjsa   November 4th, 2008 6:45 pm ET

You all make it sound like Obama's some sort of angel from heaven....

Jeez... he's a crooked politician like the rest of them... He is a skilled orator, but that's about all I can say about him...

If you listen to WHAT he says more than HOW he says it... he's really not as much as he's cracked up to be...

But so many of you dumb people are so enthralled by him, it looks like he's going to be the next President...

I hope we all like the idea of Obama's SSA (Socialist States of America)

Cristine C.   November 4th, 2008 6:45 pm ET

From a 38 year old, thank you to all of the young and first time voters for exercising your most precious of rights!

sarah   November 4th, 2008 6:45 pm ET

im 18 and voting for obama and not because im YOUNG or because its the COOL thing to do, its because i educated my self about both canidates then made the decision that i thought was best for the country!! so if Obama wins the youth is right, and the old still SENILE

Tat   November 4th, 2008 6:45 pm ET

Red, Red WHINE!!,

If you're truly a rich, white democrat, I hope you enjoy more of your hard earned money being appropriated to support folks like Susie for the next four years.

Dale, Roanoke, Va   November 4th, 2008 6:45 pm ET

Eva's comment about her son...quit sheltering your kid. Who would want to vote for someone who needs their Depends changed every half hour.

chris   November 4th, 2008 6:45 pm ET

obama is the least qualified candidate in history. And he has a horific economic plan. If he wins, God help us all.

debrasaffold   November 4th, 2008 6:45 pm ET

winners wo wo

Ike   November 4th, 2008 6:45 pm ET

Didn't Mark Furman Work for the LAPD?

Sumukh Aryal ( Canada)   November 4th, 2008 6:45 pm ET

Please please vote for Obama. Whole world is requesting all Americans to vote for Obama. America needs Obama now. All american citizens please vote for Obama. Please go to voting poll and vote for Obama. Still few hours left.

Obama !! Obama!!!

jaci   November 4th, 2008 6:45 pm ET

i'm a first time voter. most young adults and college students like myself are voting for Obama, sorry to break the news. And a facebook status from one of my "friends" said not to vote today and to wait till tomorrow. This is so ridiculous and annoying. I am so nervous for McCain to be in office. I am terrified!

Nick   November 4th, 2008 6:45 pm ET

I first voted in 2006 (I turned 18 in late 2005), but this is my first presidential race. Why waste my vote on two candidates who are very similar to one another in their foundational ideology? That's why I voted for Dr. Chuck Baldwin, a true American.

HARRY COOK   November 4th, 2008 6:45 pm ET

Please do not predict too early who has won a state(s) like CNN's Judy Woodruff did in 2000 – according to a recent WSJ article last week, her "jumping the gun" discouraged hundreds of thousands of Democrat s from going to the polls in both Florida and midwest states thinking Gore had won those states when in actuality he hadn't. It would be a monumental travesty if this historic election was adversely influenced by CNN and other news organizations because of their desire to be the first news organization to "call" a state for Obama or McCain – please let the election run its natural course and "bite" your tongue this year.

Sincerely,
Harry E. Cook, Geologist

djak   November 4th, 2008 6:45 pm ET

I'm a first time voter. It was listening to Obama speak during the primaries that prompted me to register and pay attention this election season. I always said in past elections "I don't want to be responsible for putting those bozo's in office" so I lived my life in poverty and ignored politics. Thankfully, with age often comes wisdom. I'm never letting another election go by without my voice being heard.

tonysoprano   November 4th, 2008 6:45 pm ET

to all vote for obama or i will send my guys around to have a little talk with you

Amy   November 4th, 2008 6:45 pm ET

Based on some of these comments, you'd think the voice of today's youth doesn't matter.

I'm just very happy to see people go out and vote. Four years back I convinced someone very close to me to start voting, and it meant a lot. Today we both went and voted for Obama. It was a very exciting experience.

BJ Moritz   November 4th, 2008 6:44 pm ET

So what I'm reading is young voters are ignorant if they're voting for McCain. This is my second presidential election (I am 24 years old) and I have been following it all every day, a couple times a day, for over a year. And I'm voting for Obama because I am an EDUCATED voter. Not because I'm young and it's the "cool" thing to do. You older folk need to get over the fact that we do care, and we're SICK of Republicans!

Mike from CA   November 4th, 2008 6:44 pm ET

I voted for Obama and I happily can say I never voted for the failure known as president Bush.

Suzy   November 4th, 2008 6:44 pm ET

They don't want to tell their friends that they didn't vote for Obama?

Oh please. Get a backbone. If he's man enough to make the decision, he should be man enough to stand by it.

Sandy   November 4th, 2008 6:44 pm ET

I am 37 years old and recently became a U.S citizen so I am a first time voter. I am voting Obama because he can inspire people and is very charismatic.

Eric   November 4th, 2008 6:44 pm ET

No one can be expected to get something right on the first try. ;)

Johanna Werbach   November 4th, 2008 6:44 pm ET

My six year old son said to me tonight, "This is a historic election because it's the first time a black man might be president." I told him that was very exciting but what's more important is that we agree with Obama's view of the role government has in our country, and how America is seen in the rest of the world. It doesn't matter if the candidate is purple, or green, or polka dot, we should support him (or her) if we agree with how they want to run our country.

Niels Chew   November 4th, 2008 6:44 pm ET

Relatives in Denmmark and England are actually praying for Obama.
They know what Ameirca needs, they want to love us once again.t

allen cohen   November 4th, 2008 6:44 pm ET

Considering that the last 8 years have been the worst for this country and the world since the 1929 Depression, and Senator McCain has voted with this president 90 % of the time, it is not surprising, that I believe, the majority of the voting electorate will vote for Senator Obama to become our next President. We need to help our people instead of spending 10 billion dollars per month in Iraq, a country that has been at war with its neighbors for hundreds of years, and after we leave the same will be true. We need to undersand as a country that by being ageressive against countries and leaders whom we do not like, will only increase the number of countries and leaders whom do not like us. We cannot make war upon every country we do not like !

Maverickpoet   November 4th, 2008 6:43 pm ET

I've never voted till now. I registered as Independant in CA and voted Obama/Biden. I also voted against all Republicans on the ticket as well.

Amanda   November 4th, 2008 6:43 pm ET

Tat, I think you should have a wake up call and see that many young people are aware of the issues in the world today. Whether they are voting democrat or republican, they are not just running around voting on peer pressure.

Savannha   November 4th, 2008 6:43 pm ET

IF Obama wins, you all will be standing in unemployment lines because all of the illegal aliens he so happily welcomes in our country will be taking your jobs. Socialism will replace democracy. Share the wealth, baby! Work hard and give your money to EVERYONE who needs it. That is the OBAMA WAY!

Peter Canuck   November 4th, 2008 6:43 pm ET

mccain is an old man. why would young people want their grandpa to represent their concerns? last time i checked, my grandpa didn't know what an ipod was. yeah, no thanks.

lista   November 4th, 2008 6:43 pm ET

I would like to know why is it OK to vote for someone because of color.....but if you do not vote for a person because of color it is racist??
Could someone please tell me that.....
AND before you think you know.......I AM AFRICAN AMERICAN!!!!!!!
I would NEVER vote for someone because of ANY color.......
What does that say about a person,,,,,,,,.............it says they are RACIST – NO MATTER WHAT COLOR THEY ARE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Not Fooled in Chicago   November 4th, 2008 6:43 pm ET

Unfortunately, most young voters are living with their heads up their holes just as Obama is. It's not surprising that they swing toward him. He did however do a great job of getting them involved.

Jim   November 4th, 2008 6:43 pm ET

I was a stupid first time voter once myself. I voted for Jimmy Carter. At least their vitriolic rhetoric (see above) will end very soon.

Cookie   November 4th, 2008 6:43 pm ET

I'm a first time voter even though I have was able to vote the last two elections. I waited 6 hours to vote for Barack Obama.

Jumpin Jack Flash   November 4th, 2008 6:43 pm ET

Eva,

You and you son need to leave Darth Vader and his evil minions and step into the light.

mike   November 4th, 2008 6:43 pm ET

if we are going to put them at the food court for youth to vote then why dont we put them at the nascar track where 70,000 trash people can vote mccain!!

Clare Walker   November 4th, 2008 6:43 pm ET

If I were a US citizen (I live in Canada and Cdn citizen) I would be so very proud to be able to vote for B Obama. what a statesman. They don't come much better than that. Clare

latinvoter   November 4th, 2008 6:42 pm ET

That is correct. For the first time people have felt important. Obama has reached out and made us realize the importance of what can we DO for our Nation. Voting empower us. He is the one who open our eyes to new possibilities. In order to achieve great results we must stay together. He has the spirit, intelligence and guts to get the job done.

Lara   November 4th, 2008 6:42 pm ET

Kyle: Like we are not " in for it now"!?

You may not like Obama or even like his values, but one thing is for certain: THAT DUDE IS WICKEDLY SMART! Let's put it this way, if that shall we say, not-so-smart president put us AND THE WORLD in a mess, I don't think Obama could do worse IF HE WAS TRYING!!!!!

GO OBAMA GO!!!

A Concerned Customer   November 4th, 2008 6:42 pm ET

Well, it appears like Obama is going to win, doesn't it. Obama’s policies sure sound great, don’t they? Tax the rich, give it to the poor and everything will be better. Does nobody realize they have tried this before? Does nobody realize how many times they have tried this before? Does nobody realize it has never worked? Ever? I often wonder why we are going to get a president like Obama. Then i realize that there are so many people out there who have never taken a basic economics course. So many people who think its possible to get something for nothing. In my opinion, if that’s how ignorant so many people in America are, then hell, we deserve a president like Obama.

Robert Lombard   November 4th, 2008 6:42 pm ET

Ashamed to admit it but at 63 years of age this was the first time I have ever voted......

........... PROUD to say I voted for the Obama/Biden ticket !

Opinion.. Mr. McCain is told old to be running the country. At 63 I can say for a fact that at this age one is not as sharp. And sorry but Ms. Palin is beyond a total wacko.

snugglez   November 4th, 2008 6:42 pm ET

I am so glad this is almost OVER! nonetheless, we are getting a president that just doesn't care about himself and his oil fields in iraq, this has been a long time A-coming!

Mikey   November 4th, 2008 6:42 pm ET

Lets face it, the bottom line is, everyone is sick of the Republican Party.

Also, how many times has John McCain 'ran' for President and not made it out of the primaries?

The only reason he is the nominee now is because there wasn't anyone else.

1stbroker   November 4th, 2008 6:42 pm ET

This is great!! I am proud of the younger generation for being so grounded. They get alot of flack but voting and their turnout shows that they have a voice and they want to be heard. Obama/Biden ran a campaign that spoke to the people on an intelligent level. McCain/Palin has tried every trick in the book. No matter how I tried to weigh the issues, there campaign was so clouded with non-issues I just couldn't consider there ticket. Remember: small minds talk about people and great minds talk about ideas!!! We should always remember that.

Matt Salit.   November 4th, 2008 6:42 pm ET

Obamas not gonna change crap for the good...Its a subconcious thing, this change...cause he himself is african american, which itself is change. Making you believe his promises of change and ignore the facts against him. Iam dissappointed. He shouldnt even be qualified to run for president, he couldnt even get a job at the LAPD cause his ties to Ayers, i dont understand why nobody cares about that, wich is why he'll probably win, cause no one give a hoot.

Ike   November 4th, 2008 6:42 pm ET

Its about time for a change, we have seen incompetence for too long. We need someone who is gonna look out for us, Humans are not perfect. What if your down on your luck, who is gonna take care of you? Is a conservative gonna take care of you? Economy is to wishy washy to be taking any chances. Do you know what your stocks are gonna do tommorow? For now I have lost lots of money on stocks. I am glad that is not my only source of income. What if my company suddenly had to make job cuts and I had to stop working. Who would take care of me? I am voting OBAMA.

Annette   November 4th, 2008 6:42 pm ET

This was my first time voting and I drove 45 minutes to my hometown to cast my vote for Obama.

Brock   November 4th, 2008 6:41 pm ET

With turning 18 in September, I was very anxious to have my first vote ever for the first Black president ever.

McCain Man   November 4th, 2008 6:41 pm ET

Eva,
Encourage your son to continue to be knowledgeable about politics, instead of following the crowd. If people knew who they were voting for, I'd bet McCain would be in the House.

JROD   November 4th, 2008 6:41 pm ET

AM FIRST TIME VOTER. FOR OBAMA FROM PA.

Amy   November 4th, 2008 6:41 pm ET

Plenty of us parents of school aged children are also Obama voters. Sarah Palin ruined McCain's chances. Far too divisive!

Amy in MN

Selwyn Mancao   November 4th, 2008 6:41 pm ET

I've been watching the U.S.presidential election process and I want to know if you could explain to me the electoral votes in order for either Obama or McCain to win. Thank you.

Matt   November 4th, 2008 6:41 pm ET

Obama is curing political apathy.

Aaron   November 4th, 2008 6:41 pm ET

Comments like those from Indiana_Chris are precisely why this country is in trouble.

Red, Red WHINE!!   November 4th, 2008 6:41 pm ET

Susie November 4th, 2008 6:34 pm ET
You are probably white trailer trash.

Sincerely,
A rich white democrat that hates white racists and stupid people...like Susie.

J   November 4th, 2008 6:41 pm ET

Susie, your comments really sting and it sounds like you don't know much about mcuh. I hope an Obama presidency will help us all to strive to be better.

fhtmcoach.com   November 4th, 2008 6:41 pm ET

I'm Canadain but my roots are from the US. Were all rooting for Barrack up here.
US voters it's time to send a BIG MESSAGE to the White House. We are all happy to see the "Bush" curse go.

Hilary   November 4th, 2008 6:40 pm ET

Cause Americans want a uniter, not a divider. Obama cares for ALL Americans, not just a select few.

Topher Grant   November 4th, 2008 6:40 pm ET

The young voters have all bought the HYPE. NObama!

McCain Man   November 4th, 2008 6:40 pm ET

No, Obama is getting first time voters because he is the "cool" pick. He's trendy, McCain's not. Plus, college kids think they're all liberal and rebellious. Obama will be a puppet in the White House. McCain won't be. But I guess our country just needs to find this out the hard way. Obama will give you a fish. McCain will give you a rod. Obama's health care program will set us back ages. McCain is lobbying to reprimand corrupt insurance companies, and fix our current system. Voting Obama takes this country one step closer to Socialism. Don't believe me? Obama's public health care program is a perfect example of having the government run your life. Nobama. McCain '08.

Miranda in NV   November 4th, 2008 6:40 pm ET

I know a lot of first time voters voting for Obama. Some even have parents voting for McCain, but once they're in that voting booth alone, no one can tell them who to vote for.

OBAMA BIDEN 08!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! whooooohooo!

Let's color Texas Blue   November 4th, 2008 6:40 pm ET

48y/o w/f Christian...voted Obama/Biden 08

expat 27 yr old first time voter   November 4th, 2008 6:40 pm ET

First time ever I felt fired up! and ready to go!

FY   November 4th, 2008 6:39 pm ET

This is the 5th election since I have been of age (34yo) and this is the 1st one I voted in... give you 3 guesses for who.

BHO

Steve Wilcox   November 4th, 2008 6:39 pm ET

I volunteered in Hammond, Indiana for OBAMA today. Over 200 others showed up to getout the vote –and there was very large number of young-first time voters present! McCain ran a campaign of fear and insult - Obama gave us a campaign of HOPE! Hope Flotats!!!!!!!

Nutnut   November 4th, 2008 6:39 pm ET

WE LOVEEEE YOU OBAMA!!!

Benz   November 4th, 2008 6:39 pm ET

The youths are the future of this country and the world and they are smart to vote for a president that will be on the same level in understanding the future and breaking barrers in diversity which is and should be the symble of USA.
The adult first time voters- FTV had a vision that prompted them to be part of this history.
Congratulations to all first time voters.

John   November 4th, 2008 6:39 pm ET

I'm 25 and I can say most of my generation is misinformed, or has no clue as to the reality of the issues in the election. It's a shame that democrats CAUSED the mortgage crisis starting with the community reinvestment act, NOW they want to "spread the wealth" and will be unchecked in the government if Obama wins. Taxes will go through the roof, businesses will just leave. We'll see 50%+ taxes again.

Sumukh Aryal ( Canada)   November 4th, 2008 6:39 pm ET

The whole world is behind Obama. We don't want Bush people anymore!

Meg from Colorado   November 4th, 2008 6:39 pm ET

Younger voters are more informed about what is happening in this nation via the internet and other websites such as CNN.com, so it is no surprise to me that 72 percent have already voted for Obama. The young can see through the negative rhetoric of OLDER politicians for what it is – simply desperate maneuevering. Kudos to the younger generation for being more knowledgeable about the problems of this nation and what is needed to fix it. Stop Bush's 8 years of failed policies. Go Obama!

Bonnie   November 4th, 2008 6:39 pm ET

What can we expect from Obama? Oh yeah, higher taxes.

jim   November 4th, 2008 6:39 pm ET

this country is heding down the wrong road with obama at the helm people are mesled by his carisma and insperation we dont need insperation for dreams we need a leader........

Denver Dem   November 4th, 2008 6:39 pm ET

Go get'em Kiddos, I am so stoked that this country is now going to be run by the younger generations and not decided by people who are losing their minds in their 70s. Get ready for real American progression, time to make ourselves a good example for the rest of the world.

NOBAMA   November 4th, 2008 6:39 pm ET

I DON'T MEAN TO SOUND JUDGMENTAL. BUT TO BE HONEST, MAINSTREAM PUBLICITY IS FOR OBAMA. WHATS MAINSTREAM? RAP MUSIC. ALL THESE YOUNG PEOPLE ARE NOT AWARE OF HOW THIS COUNTRY WAS FOUNDED, NOT TOO MENTION MOST YOUNG MINORITIES ONLY CARE TO SEE A PRESIDENT IN THE OFFICE OF COLOR. ITS BEEN YEARS WE HAVE TRIED TO INVOLVE THE YOUTH IN VOTING, THEY SIMPLY DIDN'T CARE, AN THOSE WHO DID , DID WHAT THEY HAD TO , TO MAKE A EDUCATED VOTE. AND IT TOOK A MAN OF COLOR TO GET THE YOUTH INVOLVED. McCAIN 2008!!! BECAUSE I LOVE THIS COUNTRY AND HAVENT FORGOTTEN WHAT IT WAS FOUNDED FROM, GOD. ONE NATION UNDER GOD.

Laurie   November 4th, 2008 6:39 pm ET

I am not one of those first time voters that voted for Barack! I am very proud to say that I am a REPUBLICAN!!!

PS   November 4th, 2008 6:39 pm ET

I feel Obama will be the one. He has what it takes to get the country in the right direction. I bugs me when they make the statement that he has no experience to lead the country as the president. Well no one that is a first time as a president has experience as the president. But I feel he will do a terrific job. Better then we have had in 8 years...

Juanita   November 4th, 2008 6:39 pm ET

Obama was who I voted for.... I voted 7 a.m. Goooooo Obama!!!!!

Bob   November 4th, 2008 6:38 pm ET

If those first time voters are of college age I wonder if they would accept the following from Obama. Let's say there is a hard working student who is very bright who earns high grades. Let's say this student has a perfect 4.0 GPA. Now we have another student who isn't quite as bright nor is that student studying as often as they should. That student has a 2.0 GPA. In the equivalent of Obama's tax plan, the Dean of Students should take one full grade point average from the hard working more successful student and give it to the student who is not performing very well. If hard working students understood such a tactic is precisely what Obama has in mind for those that have moved beyond school into the working world then I susepct his popularity would not be as great with our younger voters.

SHM   November 4th, 2008 6:38 pm ET

Yes we can ! Yes we did !

katiec   November 4th, 2008 6:38 pm ET

Hey ignore Campbell Brown. She has shown her true colors
over and over and that is RED.
Breathlessly await the outcome of this election.
Know the American voters will do what is best for this country
and support Barack Obama and Joe Biden.
It is our survival.

Tracy   November 4th, 2008 6:38 pm ET

Yeah, we rocked the VOTE GO 'BAMA !!!

Benjamin   November 4th, 2008 6:38 pm ET

Let's face it, Americans have the chance to vote for a woman or a non-white for president/VP. This in itself gives enthusiasm to the voting process. Forty three white men for President and forty three white men for vice president has been the story of our history. But that cycle will at least be half broken after today. Rejoice America, change is finally coming. The change may even go beyond our wildest imaginations. A government for the people by the poeple............ remember hearing that somewhere? Don't worry , be happy!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

kyle   November 4th, 2008 6:38 pm ET

I think alot of young Americans are going from apathetic to independent in this election cycle. And the independent young mind is favoring Obama.

Megan   November 4th, 2008 6:38 pm ET

I voted for Obama and i'm a first time voter.
He really is an empowering person. I will keep my fingers crossed
that he pulls it into the white house!

John   November 4th, 2008 6:38 pm ET

It's SHOWTIME ladies and gentlemen. Saddle up and watch history live on CNN.

Kyla   November 4th, 2008 6:38 pm ET

I'm a first time voter who won't be voting for Obama

Vanessa   November 4th, 2008 6:38 pm ET

i am one of them too!
OBAMA!!!!

SHM   November 4th, 2008 6:38 pm ET

Yes we can yes we did !

Nate   November 4th, 2008 6:37 pm ET

That is expected, first time voters tend to be young, uninformed and or in college and have yet to experience the real world (e.g. job, paying taxes, mortgage, kids, etc). They tend to vote for the 'cool' guy rather than vote on the issues...pretty sad if you ask me. I did the same thing when I first voted.

KJL   November 4th, 2008 6:37 pm ET

I'm a new American voting in my first election so I didn't have any loyalty to a party. I'm also older and white. I looked at both candidates carefully, and chose Obama because of his intelligence, cool head, and ability to work with others. That was before Palin, which would have eliminated McCain immediately.

Red, Red WHINE!!   November 4th, 2008 6:37 pm ET

When the day is done, let the republicans lay in the bed they have made. Today is pay back, and we're making it clear. Republicans are no longer welcome in this country as a whole...they can only fool the dumb ones from here on out. The smart people are back out and taking it back. NO MORE REPUBLICANS EVER! They are the scum of the earth and represent all that is wrong with america. They are domestic terrorists. If you need help finding the dumb ones, just look for states that are painted red when this is done.

Stupid is as stupid does, stupid is a place called "red on the electoral map"

COLORADO   November 4th, 2008 6:37 pm ET

It's beginning! Big party in Grant Park in Chicago tonight! Be there!

Eva   November 4th, 2008 6:37 pm ET

My son is a first time voter this year, and there are many many McCain voters out there as well. McCain is also inspiring to alot of youth in America. My son has been actively campaigning since August and will continue to help the Republican Party after this election.

Tat   November 4th, 2008 6:37 pm ET

Lots of these first time voters are likely teenagers and college kids. They just don't want to have to face their friends tomorrow morning and say they didn't vote for Obama. It's not the cool thing to do.

Let's put some voting machines in the mall food court. You may have missed some potential voters hanging out there.

Britta - FT Hood, TX   November 4th, 2008 6:37 pm ET

I'm 39 years old, married to a Lieutenant Colonel in the Army and a first time voter. Barack Obama is the first politician EVER to actually inspire me to register, much less vote, in a presidential election. I am so looking forward to the results tonight!

Sumukh Aryal ( Canada)   November 4th, 2008 6:37 pm ET

Go Obama!!!!

Kelly   November 4th, 2008 6:37 pm ET

I am an 18 year old Hispanic voter. I Voted for CHANGE with great pride. My experience as a first time voter was filled with a great sense of duty to fight for the betterment of America. I felt my vote was key in this battleground state that is Florida. I therefore encouraged many of my peers and even my mother, who is a first time voter as well. While i was waiting in line, an elderly woman who was working as part of the volunteer staff looked down at me and said "You young kids are the future you know...sooner or later we'll be handing in everything to your control". As she said that i saw the lady behind me smirk, and couldn't help but share her thoughts: "Before we hand in everything to our children and grandchildren, we have a lot in our hands to mend and change". I have great hope that Senator Barack Obama will be the one to drive America not just into a new chapter of change, but the RIGHT CHANGE.

Zack   November 4th, 2008 6:37 pm ET

NObama 08

Kathie, Houston TX   November 4th, 2008 6:36 pm ET

My son, a first time voter, proudly stood with me in line to vote. I couldn't have been proudier of him. All the way Obama/Biden

KLEE   November 4th, 2008 6:36 pm ET

Thank you Jacked-up-Politics, Florida!! way to go! I'm not a first time voter – but I am highly motivated by Senator Barack Obama. Got my fingers crossed.........It would be so nice to see a President in the White House that will bring the Nations standing back up in the world and inspire Americans from all walks of life!

James   November 4th, 2008 6:36 pm ET

I think it's ashame that people have to resort to tactics such as the tex and/or e-mail hoax asking people to wait to vote until tomorrow. That just goes to show the level in which people will sink to, for their owe personal gains. And no one should be excluded nor turned away from voting "freely"!

Indiana_Chris   November 4th, 2008 6:36 pm ET

I am a young voter... I wish we could have write-in's on the ballot.....

I would nominate SNOOP DAWG!

Cant do worse than the current one, and I would feel a lot more safe with him IN da' HOUUUUUSE

Kyle Crow   November 4th, 2008 6:36 pm ET

That is ridiculous, just because it is a big change, all the first timers have to jump on it without even seeing the views of both sides and the comparisons. I do not get what people are seeing in obama except "change". John McCain should win this. If not then we are in for it.

Obama-Biden 08   November 4th, 2008 6:36 pm ET

Not a first time voter, but 22 so I guess I fit into the "young" vote.

IN YOUR FACE!

Lucia   November 4th, 2008 6:36 pm ET

I dont care what others think but I think that today is the day to vote for a president that will make a change for this country. I president who has knowledge and one who can lead thee United States of America. I vote for Barack Obama

Carla   November 4th, 2008 6:36 pm ET

I am so looking forward to hearing and seeing Obama tonight. As one of the lucky ones chosen for a ticket to the rally, I am going to relish in all the glory of history being made! A President FOR the people – like it's supposed to be!

Chris   November 4th, 2008 6:36 pm ET

This is truly an amazing number. Should give Obama a 350+ landslide.

Sad in Ohio   November 4th, 2008 6:35 pm ET

Well, I guess we'll find out in a few years if it was the 'right' thing to do or just happened to be the 'cool' thing to do. I'm guessing we'll find out it's just another 4 years, and it was just the 'cool' thing to do and there really wont be much 'change'

mbg   November 4th, 2008 6:35 pm ET

Okay here another corrupt Alaska elected offical U.S. Rep. Don Young is under criminal investigation. great first Stevens, Palin before you are elected VP clean up your own state you cant control them so why should any one elect you

Mary   November 4th, 2008 6:35 pm ET

so happy to hear that first time voters are going for Obama.
I switched parties to vote for Obama.
HE WILL BE OUR NEXT PRESIDENT

Vicki5   November 4th, 2008 6:35 pm ET

Bottom line...Obama empowers people, and that is key – in this case, it is key to the white house :)

mama4obama   November 4th, 2008 6:35 pm ET

wooooohooooo!

Silence Dogood   November 4th, 2008 6:35 pm ET

JACKED-UP-POLITICS, FLORIDA – don't worry about questions like Campbell Brown asked. In the New Order such questions will become illegal and the Thought Police will handle it.

New Day   November 4th, 2008 6:35 pm ET

Jacked-up, I was worried about first time voters as much as Campbell Brown. Kids are so unreliable. I'm thrilled they showed up.

Voter   November 4th, 2008 6:35 pm ET

Bingo!

Uniter vs Divider

Looks forward, uses technology and sees the world as one instead of looking in the past, avoids technology and sees the world as us vs "the enemy"

tennisguypitt   November 4th, 2008 6:35 pm ET

I'm one of them, I'm 18 and proudly voted for Obama!

denni   November 4th, 2008 6:34 pm ET

Come on America! Do the rest of the world proud and vote in Barack Obama as the next President. The rest of the world will love you if you do!

Susie   November 4th, 2008 6:34 pm ET

We all knew that every single black person in America that has never voted a day in their lives would come out of the wood work to vote on this day! They should have been exercising this right all these years instead of waiting for someone else to do the work!!

Andy in Seattle   November 4th, 2008 6:34 pm ET

w00t!! that's the way, uh huh uh huh, I like it!!

Chi4Obama   November 4th, 2008 6:34 pm ET

Game, set, and match.

Young / First time voters did what they needed to do.

I'm getting ready to head down to Grant Park for Obama's victory celebration; Oops I meant Election watch party.

ROGER IN THE VIRGINIA VALLEY.   November 4th, 2008 6:34 pm ET

MAN! IF OBAMA WINS THEY WILL HAVE TO SEND LOU DOBBS TO A DETOX OR REHAB CENTER SOMEWHERE.

Calofornaian_96   November 4th, 2008 6:34 pm ET

WOW, the architect of change is finally recognized by the power of today, this is good for democracy.

GOD BLESS AMERICA

Michael from Lone Tree   November 4th, 2008 6:33 pm ET

This should not surprise anyone. McCain does not identify with young people. Repeatedly telling people you are a "maverick" doesn't really make you one and young people can sniff out bull when they hear it.
Selecting Sarah Palin was his first executive move and McCain proved he is reckless, not a maverick. Tonight we will see that voters of all ages can smell bull all the way from Washington.

Dex Dean   November 4th, 2008 6:33 pm ET

Need to replace the old guard in DC. These flyers, text messages etc, are an illustration of win at all costs approach. That is why the Clintons and McCains must go. Why should not Americans have the same health plans as Congress. Can you imagine, they represent us and look at them and look at us. Enough is enough. Barrack stated that we should have access to the same plans. Could not agree more. Lets just do away with the self serving parties and elect the best candidate and then they have to work together. THE CURRENT SYSTEM IS BROKEN!

Nina in Orlando   November 4th, 2008 6:33 pm ET

28 year old first time voter from FL voted for OBAMA!!!!!!

Barbara in NC   November 4th, 2008 6:33 pm ET

Jacked-Up – She's ALWAYS condescending. Don't think it's just now. Typical republican, she is.

Chi4Obama   November 4th, 2008 6:32 pm ET

I smell LANDSLIDE.

No More Mistakes   November 4th, 2008 6:32 pm ET

and I'm one of them!

Gozy   November 4th, 2008 6:32 pm ET

Dont worry Obama...You are already in the WHITE HOUSE

Stephy   November 4th, 2008 6:31 pm ET

The reason is because Obama his reached out to them, to get them involved and make them feel important. Obama is an inspiring person and this country will do great things with him as our President.

GI   November 4th, 2008 6:31 pm ET

YES WE CAN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Barbara in NC   November 4th, 2008 6:31 pm ET

Some of us old-timers did too. he he he he he

adg   November 4th, 2008 6:31 pm ET

I hope that the fear leading lier. who has lost all moral values loses big!!!! he is discusting!!!! Vote Obama!!!!! NOW!!!!!!

GIVE PEACE A CHANCE, VOTE A STRAIGHT DEMOCRATIC TICKET!   November 4th, 2008 6:31 pm ET

From this 57 year old Southern white guy

Bless you my children!!

JACKED-UP-POLITICS, FLORIDA   November 4th, 2008 6:30 pm ET

CAMPBELL BROWN, I hope this answer your questions regarding whether or not first time voters and young voters would come out. Looks to me like they have showed up.

I found your comment earlier in the week a little condescending.

Who Cares   November 4th, 2008 6:30 pm ET

And right there is BO's 7-point lead.

deb in Colo   November 4th, 2008 6:29 pm ET

Just talked to my 21 year old niece who voted for the 1st time – for Obama!

Comments have been closed for this article

subscribe RSS Icon
About The Ticker

The latest political news from CNN's Best Political Team, with campaign coverage, 24-7. Sign up for our twice daily Ticker emails. Got a news tip or feedback? For complete political coverage, bookmark CNNPolitics.com.

CNN=Politics Screensaver

CNN=Politics ScreensaverTap into the power of The Situation Room. Download this powerful new tool that keeps you posted on the latest political news from the campaign trail.
Download (4.1 MB, PC only)

twitter
@KuhnCNN: Great meeting @JackGrayCNN today and seeing @sinderbrandrcnn in NYC! AC Rock Stars! :-)
Updated: Tue, 09 Feb 2010 22:07:10 -0800
@KuhnCNN: Posted today: Clinton foreign trip first on Twitter. http://bit.ly/9Axuh9 /via @PoliticalTicker
Updated: Tue, 09 Feb 2010 20:36:14 -0800
@KuhnCNN: RT @octavianasrCNN: MUST-READ// Coaching tomorrow's world leaders, through social networking -- http://bit.ly/9tmW6x
Updated: Tue, 09 Feb 2010 20:32:51 -0800
@AWMooneyCNN: Metro finally comes and then stops at station for 20 minutes #snoverkill
Updated: Tue, 09 Feb 2010 19:46:27 -0800
@psteinhauserCNN: I just shoveled two feet of snow off the roof. That was fun!
Updated: Tue, 09 Feb 2010 18:14:34 -0800
Categories
Powered by WordPress.com VIP