CNN

[...] And so it begins... Votes are still being counted in some states, but conservatives stinging from last night’s losses are planning to get together to plan the movement’s future — and so far, it doesn’t look like that vision includes John McCain. [...]

So the exclusionary behavior continues...a good reason why conservatism was repudiated in the election. May it never rise in its current form again!

These idiot conservatives are the reason McCain lost. He pandered to their out-of-touch demands and alienated moderates from both parties. They are to blame for the next 4 to 8 years of Obama-led socialism. Hang your heads in shame conservatives! McCain is too good to come to your irrelevant gathering of dunces.

It's sad the way they're treating him. He should have switched to the Democratic Party in 2000. His party treats him badly.

They're always eating their own. The republicans that will return to or make their first trip to Washington can either get with the program or get the hell out of office! The majority of Americans can care less about ideology. We've got work to do.

JUST SAY NO TO GRIDLOCK!

Is it necessary to kick people after they are down?
Is it necessary to mock them and make vile remarks of those that put everything on the line to represent their party, whether it be Democrat or Republican? I would like to hear from Barrack Obama that enough is enough and we should move on an d begin the process of putting this nation back together and we should begin this process now on these blog sites or maybe CNN should simply not make them available anymore.

People are so out of control. President elect barack Obama deserves our support and respect. Even McCain stated that last night in the most eloquent speech he has made to date.

Please people you don't have to agree with President Elect Obama but he has a monumental accomplishment and we all need to get behind this president.

No one is rolling in their graves but looking forward to a brighter more hopeful tomorrowm

To John,
I understand your anger, rage over my comments.
Now, think about it ... How would Mr. Brack Obama , a true Patriotic American – have felt , when you guys were accusing him of terrorist connections and being un-patriotic ??
So, now you know how it is to make false allegations and test the patriotism of a fellow American.

The people that make up this great nation spoke loud and clear last night. Obama / Biden will be the the best President & Vice President this country has seen in years.
The majority of Americans are fed-up with the republican BS and being to far to the right. Nothing wrong with being conservitive, but the "ultra conservitive" wing is destructive.
John McCain should take it as a compliment that he is not invited.

I wouldn't say that McCain got beat by the better man as someone indicated. He got beat not by the better an but by "the thought of him being a Republican and all the problems that the current adminstration created. In this past election, there was not better man or person running for election than a "true hero" John McCain

CPAC– is that some kind of acronym for "bigots" and "racists" and "keep the little lady under your thumb"???

It's simple. They understand the reason the Republican ticket lost is because they did NOT stick to Conservative Pricinples. When conservatives do stick to their principles they WIN, just like Reagan, and California proposition 8. The American people DO support conservative pricniples and values, NOT liberal radicalism. Next time we need to run a TRUE conservative candidate that sticks to conservative principles, and we CAN'T LOOSE!!! Particularly after four years of the liberal socialist fiasco that awaits us now!

Before he chose Palin, I, a lifelong Democrat actually respected John McCain. Although I have issues with many of his decisions (tax breaks for firms sending jobs overseas really gets in my craw) he seemed like a viable candidate. But Palin? Come on people! There were so many others they could have chosen. I still don't get what they were thinking.

And to Unbelievable, why don't you just put on your hood for crying out loud? Get over yourself and your obvious issues. Just put on your "I'm a racist" t-shirt and walk down the avenue. And to the yahoo who will not refer to President Elect Obama as president: crawl back under the same rock as Unbelievable you two deserve each other. The people have spoken and the world response is evident. America has not been the best neighbor in the last eight years and the world is holding us accountable for it. We have lost our status and we need to get our act together. Haven't you ever wondered what has been done in our name that we don't know about? Why so many people hate us? I love my country even when it hasn't always loved me, but we have work to do. America has to come down off of its high horse and realize we're not the only ones in this world.

If we don't learn to get over our differences and meet somewhere in the middle, we are doomed. The GOP does need to get away from its extreme ways and realize that it is a new day.

I don't see how Palin helped McCain. It's not as if right wing conservatives would have voted for Obama or Nader. McCain should have embraced his real roots and run closer to the center. He deserved to lose for running to the right.

Don't do it Bobby!!!!!! You may actually have a chance in the future!!!!!

Did not you listen to speeches by both last night?
The devisive comments and partison feelings need to be put away and we need to come together as a nation.
A house divided against itself will inherit the wind.

Palin Rocks and was the only Conservative on the Presidential ballot.

Respectfully, John , find a nice quiet place, enjoy your retirement and stop meddling in Conservative Principles.

We need to return to our roots and no more compromising. We have to toughen up and stop bending over to placate any da* Liberal. NO MORE....Meet me in the middle.

No Liberal ever met any one in the middle unless their private parts were being gripped by a real conservative.

bye bye bye bye bye mccain/palin yes we can!!!!!!!!!!

To the ignorant who voted for Obama, enjoy the socialist, third world country we are about to become, please don't come crying to the Independants and Liberal Republicans once you realize the magnitude of your mistake. There will be no mercy. You have sealed Americas fate for the worse.

William that may be the best comment ever on a CNN blog!!!

Palin in 2012!!!

The current Republican base can never win another national election. They represent the parts of American culture that should be in its rearview mirror. The fact that a polarizing force such as Sarah Palin represents it's future shows just how out of touch CPAC is.

Unbelievable! :
"Obama for President; I believe my grandparents just rolled over in their graves.Ugh!
2012!!!! Anyone but Obama…"

Do I detect a bit of racism here??

Mike – I suggest that you step back a bit and re-evaluate. Ultra conservatism represented by Palin is dying. The Republican Party needs to come to grips with it and move away from such extremism.

As I read all the comments made I can see why things went the way they did. Just in case you don't know the Dems have controlled everything for over two years and several years before the 2006 change. Folks we just put the Fox in the Hen House. The ones crying raceism are the reason this country has now going to pot. Wake up and look at what you just did. The man could be green and that would not change his thinking. He is a disaster looking for a place to happen and we the true real Americans are going to pay a very steep price. I hope the tratiors to this country are happen they deserve what ever they get.

Senator McCain was very gracious in his speech last night. I wonder had he run his campaign the same way, we might have seen a different outcome. I wish him and Cindy well. Whether you voted for him or not, now is the time to come together to stand behind our next President: Barack Obama. Acting like whiners, and being a sore loser is not good for the soul. The Obamas need to feel our support, prayers, and strength as one nation, under God, and indivisible. God bless the Obama family and God bless America!

It's done America has cast their vote,we need to come together and help our leaders rebuild what we knock down. stop looking at Obamba as black but look at him as an American. We need to work together stop beating each other down we are American lets start acting like it.

How pathetic that the CPAC throws John McCain 'WAR HERO' under the bus! Really disgusting, considering ALL John McCain has done for his party and the Nation!

This article just confirms my reason for no longer being a Republican, they are despicable!

I am a married, mother of two. I am so tired on the conservative – liberal labels. My views are personal – I am Catholic, pro-choice and I consider choice to be the conservative view. This country has spoken and decisively chosen the candidate who is articulate, well educated and inclusive all many skin colors and religions.

There are clear reasons for separation of church and state. When candidates as inept as Palin are chosen to appease the "religious right", then there is something wrong with the voice of the "right" wing, which I have grown to believe is a danger to our democracy. Let the Republican Party learn that we do not clearly fit into their neat little categories.

A Great Man:

McCain himself said we need to unite together and support Obama. I guess you aren't near the good man he is huh?

I may not have voted for him, but his concession speak was wonderful, I guess some people would just rather keep on hating.

Wow! I don't believe I have ever inserted a comment in these types of posts, but I have to say that some of you are really hateful people.

Obama is now my president, and I know he is there for a reason; however, even though some of you endorse Obama, I very much doubt that Obama would endorse you or your ideals. Also, Obama says he is a Christian, so I am not sure where that hate is coming from either. Obama's message seems to be the anithesis of hate and embraces caring and responsibility, some of you obviously don't really understand what you voted for.

I doubt I am going to look at this post again, since I can only imagine the nasty grams I am going to get from this post.

You folks claiming that McCain lost because he "moved too far to the right" are uneducated. McCain's biggest problem was that he wasn't sure where he stood on too many issues, and when he did make a decision, he usally went too far to the Dem side. Another thing. What exactly did Sarah Palin do that made the libs so mad? Her statements about Obama were probally the truest thing said by either side in this campaign. Where in her public career has she ever been a right wing lunitic? And you cant say "banning books" because that has already been proven to be an internet urban legend.

Well, I guess he should not have stolen "The Mac is back from Paul McCartney." Serves him right. Too bad he did not get an invite to play in the Republican sandbox.

Bravo Zulu, John McCain! –Steve, USNA '80

Senator McCain -

I voted against you yesterday, but I respect and admire you nonetheless. This CPAC group has no love for you, even though your candidacy would have been the vehicle to promote their agenda if you you had been elected. They're now more than happy to turn their backs on you. My advice is to be a maverick (which you are) and give this group the middle finger.

CPAC is irrelevant today.

Maybe they and the Republicans should spend some time to trying to reinvent themselves.

Otherwise, YES PLEASE invite Sarah Palin.

That'll guarantee a 2 term Obama administration.

I'm just fine with that.

To Rave (3:02)

I saw your comments on other blogs, I see you are putting that GED to good use!

I have an advanced degree as well as a GREAT job.

Go see if your welfare check is in the mail.

Obama = "Spreading the wealth" aka "welfare..."

If the "conservative principles" their talking about include the far right social nonsense of Sarah Palin, they're finished.

The fact that they include Sarah Palin as part of their cut says it all. Apparently, this butt-whooping they just got hasn't changed anything for them. They still wanna talk about that "trickle-down" and "wild market" crap.

If they plan to run the same way in 2010, they'll get a better beat-down than they did this year. So keep it up CPAC. Make Obama's day.

I always said if McCain ran for president, I would vote for him. But McCain didn't run for president. He was not the same man.

On a side note, the only people who should be against immigration are the Native Indians. Everyone else better thank their lucky stars that our founding fathers where not so selfish.

You people know nothing about conservatism. It's about individual liberty for everyone. It's about freedom from government. The idea that man best governs himself. That is what a free nation is founded on. Freedom is a new idea while tyranny is as old as civilization itself. McCain wasn't invited to CPAC because he votes for government control of financial institutions. Talk about tyranny...just wait to they confiscate your 401k in the charge of "the greater good".

I echo what Ivy, Bixby, OK said: "I hope to see the far right and the far left come meet the 95% of us that are in the middle to effect a real change."

Unfortunately, I do not think that the radical left is any more willing to accept the middle as the far right. Also, the radical left has the media and entertainment industry to support them.

. . . but they invited Palin. LOL. What a bunch of lum nuts.

This is n example of why the GOP lost an will continue to do so if they stay on this path.

McCain, the real one not the candidate, is a moderate which is why the base has never cared for him.

We have seen that the base is now a minority and if the GOP wants to return to power they will have to reinvent themselves completely.

Extremism, in either party, is NOT A GOOD THING. The majority of us want to take the middle road, anyone who wants to be our tour guide will have to take that road.

PS to the "grandparents rolling in their graves" my grandpa is rolling in his and that makes this result even more sweet!! many of our grandparents were small minded bigots who were wrong on almost every belief they held dear

Dear Friends:
The Honorable and Distinguished SENATOR JOHN MCCAIN IS ONE OF THE BEST SENATORS THIS NATION HAS EVER HAD IN THE HISTORY OF THE USA. HE HAS MADE A PLACE IN HISTORY THAT WILL NEVER, NEVER BE FORGOTTEN. WE THE PEOPLE OF THE USA THANK YOU FOR YOUR SERVICE!

WAVE THOSE FLAGS VETERANS AND AMERICANS FOR SENATOR JOHN MCCAIN.

HE IS A HERO!

THE TRUTH IS IN GOD'S HEART AND MIND FOREVER AND EVER THROUGH ETERNITY!

I WILL NOT EVER EAT ANY WORDS. LET FREEDOM RING!
I AM A PROUD AMERICAN AND PROUD OF SENATOR JOHN MCCAIN.

SHARON WALKER

You all are way to hard on Sarah Palin. She had an 80% approval rating in her own state. She mananged to run against a Rep. Gov – as a republican (unheard of) and win. She did tackle members and corruption in her own party and succeeded. And yes, she had very little International experience - guess what – so did Clinton. Is she new to the media blizzard (obviously). And because of that, she screwed up a couple of questions (and I do mean "a couple" that were played again and again and again.) Let's pretend for one moment that media coverage was fair and they played Biden's gaffs just as much.... Also, keep this in mind – she was more investigated, reported on, and probbed than any politican since WATERGATE! And somehow managed to stay pretty clean and strong in the face of it. She's an impressive woman, and impressive politican – though still somewhat green. I'm curious – had Obama been investigated even half as much or hard as Palin was – do you really think he would have come out as clean? You people that sit home, blogging your hateful words, so convinced of your own righteousness – imagine – how would you have handled that kind of scrutiny?

still trying to figure why cnn wont post my comments
what exactly do you not care for?
i guess you dont care for strong opinions

Ouch. The Republicans are just ruthless, even to their own.

Hey everyone! Barack won....of course you know that. Let's get some things accomplished now. Stop complaining and let's work together. If you upset people drag the country down by kicking and screaming because your candidate didn't win, we won't get ANYTHING done. But then again, the rest of us are the majority as you now well know. At any rate, just let's all just get along and continue to make history. Many people are truly feeling happiness and hope for the first time in their lives. Could it be jealousy? Selfishness? Just think about it.....

Ophrah, Powell, JJ all choking up , getting emotional.

What does that mean ?

Rachael,

You are criticizing Palin for a few hundred $K for a wardrobe, when the Obama's have been spending $500M!? What did Michelle order for room service at the Dem Convention? Lobster, Champagne...

You think Obama is "one of us". He isn't. He failed at community organizing, he failed at being a senator (voting present) and after only 2 years announced he is running for president. Then now that he is elected on a platform for change, his entire cabinet and proposed team is old-guard Democrats (no change there) and he will fail as a president.

The real joke will be in the white house...

mcCain doesnt NEED to be there. He was NEVER one of them. He was a maverick, who HAD to stoop to their failed policies to be on the ticket.

McCain is a good man – he just got mixed up with the wrong crowd!

I find it extremely interesting that all of the people on this page that are criticizing the great Senator McCain seem to have forgotten that he is still a United States Senator, and probably will be for quite a while.

If you people want Republicans like myself to stand up in support of our new President, then you need to offer the same respect to our party and the man that still has great influence on this country.

He lost an election. It happens. You move on and deal with it. I'm sure he's not losing any sleep about not being invited to this conference. He is going to go back to Washington and work on how to keep the Democratically controlled White House and Congress from ruining this great nation that he has served for so long.

God bless John McCain, and God Bless the United States of America.

Someone needs to explain to these "conservatives" what the word means.

Maybe John will reach across the aisle and stay.
He could always join up with the "rebel" forces. Maybe we can trade him for Lieberman.

One more senate vote.

Folks...let's not trash McCain...he was by far the more suitable candidate to lead a country that is squarly in the sights of those who would destroy her. And make no mistake, these people do not want to destroy America because of her policies, foreign or domestic. These destroyers want to eradicate Western thought and values because they covet these very things.

As Americans, let's not forget to pat ourselves on the back either. We've come a long way since breaking from England...we've proved to a doubting world that democracy does work. This victory is spitting in the eyes of those who doubt the power of people...Vive le Democracy!!

The far right continues with an "us vs them" agenda

It's the UNITED States of America... meaning mixed people come together.

MCain, If I were you, I would devote my time on other things non-political like endorsing different brands of prune or Bran cereals..or volunteering at old folk's homes... wayy betterthan hanging out with the likes of Joe the plumber and "just Sarah from Wasillah"!

Wow less than 24 hours, they have already thrown McCain under the bus. Now that is sad.

ALTHOUGH I CANNOT STAND WHAT AC CAIN STANDS FOR, HIS SPEECH WAS TRUE IN THAT ALL AMERICANS NOW NEED TO COME TOGETHER.

AS FAR AS PALIN. . . . THANKS FOR MAKING A MOCKERY OUT OF THE ELECTION PROCESS. . . THE LITTLE TOWN YOU COME FROM IN ALSKA IS MISSING THERE IDIOT. TIME TO GO HOME

CPAC is a loosing organization and the Republian party deserve loosing, i am an ndependent registered voter and your party has lost it way when it shove George Bush down our throat.

Only whites and the rich matters. Its out of touch,out of idea and hopefully out of business.No more brainwashing scared tactic.

Rush Limbach the dope head is a disgraced to your party.

Rachael- The country is not left. It is not even center-left. it is still center-right. America electing Obama does not signal a move to the Left. In fact, Obama made his campaign more moderate and more right in order to win this election. He talked about wanting less abortions, lowering taxes, maintaining the 2nd amendment and gun rights, staying in Iraq for 2 more years, moving into Pakistan if the terrorists are within our sight, pro- military, etc. It was the only way he could be elected. America never would have elected him if he had stuck to his real, far left radical views. So it just proves America is still center-right

Sarah Palin 2012

Sarah did a outstanding job, look on how she was so hated by the other side. Its all there, She has the potential to become the Ronald Reagan in the after math of Obama (the next Carter). She needs to become intrenched into the conservative ideals. Socialism has been tired every where and failed. Capitalism and conservative values are what build nations. Obama will become the Prince John/Jimmy Carter of our times. Don't feel defeated Sarah, this is what is needed to bring real change to America, Obama will remind everyone that in four years of increased taxes, 8 million Jobs lost with >17% interest rates, limited credit and a failed foriegn policy. The real Robin hood will be Sarah Palin, taking from the tax collectors and giving it back to the people (which she has already done in Alaska by in tax refunds)

Nice to see that they've invited Ron Paul. I liked how he pointed out that if we support Israel, we probably shouldn't be turning around and selling weapons to their enemies. Hopefully they address unintended consequences and blowback.

It will be interesting to see what role Palin plays, now that the GOP isn't trying to force her to a script. Maybe she'll be even worse, LOL!

Typical Republicans...they don't even like they're own.

All of you that think Obama is the savior of us all.... You are insane to think that he is going to be able to get what he wants done.... He got elected by empty promises and a socialist agenda which in my opinion could end the American dream..All I can say it is both parties fault the country has been run into the ground not just the GOP... yea Bush has done a horrible job but.... the financial problems are not just the GOP's the Dems have had control of Congress for how long? So you can't just blame the GOP its both.... I am an American and I do not favor one party or another... Welcome back to reality someone had to say it...

Some of you are a joke. Sarah Palin is the only reason that McCain was as close as he was. She is the force in the conservative movement. You liberals are scared to death of her and are determined to destroy her because you know that she is a threat in 2012. Keep trying to blame the loss on her. Smart people know better!

I voted for McCain not because he was terribly appealing, but because I disagree with Obama's feelings on redistribution of wealth. As conservatives we must stop pandering to the left. Do you think liberals care what we think about them? Why should we care what they think about us? Fact: With the economy in the crapper, an unpopular war, an unpopular president, and the media in the bag for PE Oboma, there were still 47% of Americans that voted for McCain. This is not a landslide it is moderates and independants seeing two candidates hawking change and selecting the one that is actually a change. What would have happened if McCain campaigned for a return to "conservative roots". And by that, I don't mean the ultra right conservative Christians. They are as out of touch with mainstream America as the enviromental terrorist are.

That being said, God Bless America, and God Bless PE Obama, he's gonna need it.

The inclusion of Sarah Palin into the meeting automatically tells me that they will have to buy more crayons and flashcards. Given the list of attendees it certainly seems the group could more appropriately be labeled the "CELG – Conservative Ego-maniacal Losers Group". How can such a vicious, regressive, anti-intellectual group possibly discuss anything useful. I truly hope the Republicans put Sarah on the ticket in 2012, it will make for a cakewalk for the Democrats.

Sen. McCain's concession speech was the best I heard from him during the campaign.

Apparently, the GOP learned nothing about working towards unity from this election race. They are probably doing him a favor, particularly if they plan to turn Palin into significant leader in their party. If they do that, they are waaaaaaay dumber than we thought. If anything, the invites should be reversed. As much as McCain's campaign went off the rails, he's the smarter of the two.

I see the people saying they will never say 'President Obama'? I don't remember people being this downright UGLY when Bush won. I understand disapointment, sure. You have the right. But give it a rest. Quit walking around 'sucking lemons' as my grandmother would say. By the way, my grandmother ....she was a sharecropper in South Carolina. We cried together last night. We should all be proud...

They are still mad at McCain even though Sarah was the drag on the ticket.

Were the GOP heads even paying attention last night?

Palin was a big reason independents like me didn't vote for McCain.

But hey, if the GOP feels they don't need independents to win elections, they can feel free to roll the dice.

I can't begin to convey how disappointed I am in John McCain, not because he lost but because he compromised in an attempt to win.

Personally I support Obama because I think he brings change-velocity to the table but McCain was a good man with good values who tried to pander to an ignorant former-majority that really only cares that their president prays to Jesus and is against abortion (oh, and will let them carry guns) simply because he believed that he couldn't win without them.

I understand the religious/right point of view but when you won't elect a president because he doesn't agree that Dinosaurs and humans lived together its hard to have respect for his/her administration on secular issues. Thank God it appears those dark days are past.

It is so sad that this day and age – we have this conservative political group that promotes racism, elitism, and that only if you are white and right wing religious – can you participate in their group. This sounds like a professional KKK organization. The members of this group need to open their eyes and hearts to what Americans are saying today.

It's ok McCain, that's a GOOD thing. It's time for you to detox anyway.

To Unbelievable!,

Believe it.

If Jindal wants a political career , he should stay away from this movement. The country is slowly moving away from these right wing conservatives. McCain's campaign should of seen that coming. It's time to move forward.

Sen. McCain did not lose this election it wa sthe Republican party that did it they made him choose an ill equipt running mate that was aloud to spew hate and throw accusation around about a setting US senator. She aloud Hank Williams JR. to say Obama doesnt like the National Anthem or the Pledge an dshe was a few feet away. I dont buy she never heard a racist comment from her supporters. I surley did. I dont know if that is the true lady we say or some manufacterd right wing whack job.

McCain is a man of honor and the Republicans are lucky to have him, they are at fault. I am wondering did they invite that hate monger Dole to this conferance? I am sorry if the best that the Republican party has to offer is Mrs. Palin I will cast my vote again for President Elect Obama.

There is a striking difference between republicans and democrats. During Senator McCain’s concession speech, every time he mentioned President Elect Barack H. Obama you heard enough boo’s that he had to raise his hands to quiet them. When Obama spoke about McCain you heard either respectful silence or some cheers. Senator McCain of 2000 would have won the election or made it close, the fact that he sold out to the far right Bush machine did him in. I’m 100% positive he didn’t mean a lot of the negative stuff his campaign was endorsing. If republicans want to be included in 21st century America they need to shed the fear tactics and come up with better solutions than lowering taxes for the wealthy.

I think that's terrible.

I am a proud dem today but reading these posts bother me greatly.Our candidate ran on healing wounds and bring ALL America together.While I understand the desire to gloat after the last 8 years as well as the tone of the republican campaign,NOW is the time to bring us all together.If the conservative wing doesn't want McCain we should embrace him to our fold not castigate him.Do not let Obama's message be trampled by the rush for payback.I welcome all my friends who are republican to to join us and look forward to the future.Sadly I feel that before anyone jumps me for being a "plant" ,I must say i ran for office as a dem and lost in the primary.Follow our new presidents message and UNITE this country,it will feel better than cheap payback

When the Republicans decide to take time and look at where the majority of Americans stand, they'll see where all just right of center. The radical right wing-nuts have alienated many of us, including Colin Powell.

Move left, get real, pay attention, listen to the people and change the way you do business. That's the only way you'll ever get my vote again.

One candidate's race and another's gender played no part in my vote. What mattered was the issues, which the Repubs failed to adequately address. But who has time for issues when you're being mavericks and telling tall tales around the campfire? Or spending hundreds of thousands of contributor dollars on a wardrobe? The "lipstick on a pig" comment has never been truer.

Rachael
Yes we did! 08

rave leave this site ur very ignorant, SMFH

Unbelievable!

Why, because he is half black/half white or is it his name? Give me one good reason? Maybe you need to turn your grandparents around and tell them to let it go....It is about time we have other cultures and other race working in the government other than the white race! Maybe you can learn a lesson or two.....

POOR MCCAIN

Frankly if Palin is the new face of the Conservative PAC, then McCain should be flattered they excluded him. This election cycle gave conservatives a very ugly, mean and hateful meaning. The Conservative Barry Goldwater type, which was tolerable, has given way to hate, narrow minded, bigots. Blech.

It really doesn't say much for the state of Alaska. First they vote in Sarah Palin as Governor. Now based on the other article here, the people of Alaska have all but voted to reelect Senator Stevens. Atleast now we know for sure that the people of Alaska don't really care who they vote for and that those people don't need to have any requirements, honesty or integrity to get a high profile job in their state.

In McCain's speech last night, I heard a man who seemed to speak from his heart. It is a shame the GOP used him, brainwashed him, and then kicked him to the side. I didn't care for him during the campaign but gained great respect for you last night.

Mr. McCain, last night your words were clean and from the heart. It was almost as if you woke up and saw what you had become and that you had been used. Empty out the GOP garbage and continue to be the great man God created YOU to be. There is something better for you than being their scape goat.

The American public has had its fill of Extremism.

--------------------------------

If that's the case, then why did this country just go to the extreme left?

McCain is a centrist, and because of that, he was ridiculed by both parties; the Republicans because he agreed with Democrats too much, and the Democrats because he carried the Republican tag.

When a boat is about to capsize because too many people are on one side of it, you don't make a mad rush for the other side. Unfortunately, that's precisely what this country has done in electing the most liberal President in history supported by a Democratic-led Congress. Now, the boat is going to capsize in the other direction.

It's well past time for a viable Independent party in this country that represents where most of us really stand: in the middle.

See this is the first mistake of reform the GOP is making. McCain would have won if he would have stuck to being someone who could work across the aisle and not be so far to the right and unreasonable. He bought into their gimmicks by picking Palin instead of picking a presidential choice. McCain is conservatie but not Bush/Palin conservative and America voted against that last nigt duh GOP....its like they dont get it!

That's mean-spirited on the part of CPAC. Even if they don't agree with his politics and are dissapointed at his performance, he was still their candidate and is still definitely a party leader.

Ouch! He loses the election because he moved too far to the right, and now those same righties won't let him play in their reindeer games.

Conservatives need to open their eyes to the realities of the nation. I'm tired of hearing the Republican's claim how this is a center-right nation and that President-Elect Obama needs to govern with this in mind.

He was NOT elected as center-right candidate. He was elected because he wants to move beyond this and bring everyone together to work for the greater good of the country rather than for partisan purposes.

Conservatives you do not define this country-WE DEFINE OURSELVES. Quit trying to throw your weight around and control our lives.

We are a diverse nation and need to celebrate that diversity while working for the common good of our country instead of own special interests.

We all love this nation and want nothing but the best for our country that does not just belong to you.

McCain should be a part of your efforts because he can help you move closer to the center and help your overcome your extremist views.

You the conservatives must become engaged in and a part of the reality that is this nation.

Joe the Plumber was invited!!

Even though I am beyond thrilled that Barack Obama will be the next president John McCain is a good and decent man that deserves all Americans respect for his service to our country. Did you all not listen to President Elect Obama's speech last night?

Now that Obama won we should not be refering to black people as African Americans we are all Americans whether you are white,black red, yellow purple ,or any color a nation divided can not stand it is noe time to put that behind us.I do not feel that calling yourself something other than an American is unpatriotic.

McCain did not earn my vote, but this treatment by CPAC is awful

In a story that is completely about McCain, I find it reprehensible that racist comments regarding Obama are made. Really, didn't America grow up last night?

As for the story, McCain is better off without those hate-mongerers.

I keep hoping that the conservatives will learn that the country doesn't need their single-minded application of conservative ideology to every issue or problem that comes along. How refreshing it is to hear more sensible voices calling for pragmatic approaches that begin with the problem instead of the solution.

i forgot to ask-what about joe the plumber-did he get the invite?

Michael in Houston....

The fact that you are all laughing is representative of your kind of people. You act like you care about people and ask for equality, but really, almost all my liberals friends do is belittle others as you have done just now.

Might I also point out that while there are 63 million people "laughing", there are 56 million people who support conservative ideas and ready to rip your ideologies to shreds over the next four years. Oh, what am I saying; they're all just racist bigots!

Further, other countries were celebrating because of the historic feat – a black man being elected president. They are happy for our progress in terms of racial acceptance. Do you really think they were happy because liberals are now dominate? Do you think they even know what that term means? It is certainly not a universal term.

Shame on you for such a ridiculous post. Perhaps you're just bitter you live among conservatives in Texas?

mccain is a good man he just got beaten by the better one....

Gov. Bobby Jindal will run in 2012!

Maybe what the election results from last night tells us is that we're interested in working together to solve problems and that either extreme (liberal or conservative) would do well to adopt a more middle of the road philosophy.
Mc Cain's loss was due to pandering to the right by making Palin his choice for VP. He lost the independents.
I hope to see the far right and the far left come meet the 95% of us that are in the middle to effect a real change.

It's interesting that during the entire campaign, the Republicans used the word "liberal" as though it was toxic. Perhaps the Republican party is now having the tables turned on it...maybe the word "conservative" is perceived by the voting public as representing intolerance, wealth, greed, and elitist (yes...elitist), With those ideologies, they'll never attract the African-American or the growing Hispanic populations...those demographics they will need in order to win elections.

The country appears to going a bit more to the center, and CPAC is hellbent on preserving what may become the great pariah of this nation...conservatives!

And just like a conservative...they would just as soon discard John McCain instead of looking to broaden their base by being more inclusive.

I hope that we can all come together and grow as Americans. I can see that is not something that the CPAC is interested in. I would hope they would have learned that it is better to bring together than to try to take apart.

Cpac – should feel ashamed of themselves -they really need to go into themselves and learn that being a Christian doesn't mean being divisive
- if they can't be inclusive of all their is no reason for their being .Their is no future in extremism

To Unbelievable!
Your Grandparents must be idiots like you
Haa Haa Haa.. Hee Hee Hee... Look at yourself you looser

What is really disappointing and shameful is that the GOP has already started plotting on what they should do in the next election rather than fulfill their #1 obligation which is "What can I do to make sure we as Americans succeed in the next 4 years". If they do things right in the next 4 years, then they will have a leg to stand on, otherwise we will see another mudslinging competition in 2012.

Until the GOP stops defining America as pro and anti areas all you will have is just a bunch of bitter meetings on how to make a come back. As much as you want to believe this is a christian nation we the people are giving you the chance to redefine that thought because it is far from it.

I think its a mistake that they have invited Sarah Palin; the worst thing that could happen would be for her to represent ANYTHING in the coming years!!

I consider myself an Independent, and I proudly voted for the Obama/Biden ticket!!!

If they're taking Palin then CPAC probably isn't a place Sen. McCain wants to be.

If the CPAC was intelligent, they would invite McCain. Could any other GOP candidate have garnered 47/48% of the popular vote in this election? I don't think so. As well, I think most republican are ready to do away with the neo-cons of Gingrich, Palin, and Cheney to mention a few. I think republicans need to get back to the middle on most issues including immigration because face it. In about 10-15 years, hispanics and minorities are going to be the predominant voting demo... not whites. The GOP needs men like McCain to help them come to the center on these issues. But, if they don't whatever... I am a Dem. and if they want to alienate their party even more. thats fine.

I'm not sure who I feel worse for, McCain or this lame conservative group. Scratch that, who really cares? McCain bailed on his principles and used conservative smear tactics to try to win. He gets some redemption from last night's speech but now he has lost some of his identity and this is the result. He probably is too good for CPAC and hopefully he will return to the kind of man he once was.

What a bunch of fools... apparently, denial is just a river in Egypt to them. They'll loose again and again because their egos prohibit them from looking in the mirror.

If conservatives think John McCain lost this election because he's 'not conservative enough,' they are delusional. America has moved to the Left, and the far Right - which continues to get farther to the Right all the time - has been left in the dust.

John McCain got a bad economy, bad advice and a bad choice for VP. I admire the man myself and what he stands for even though I voted for Obama/Biden. Sarah Palin was part of the problem for John McCain.

If Sarah Palin is their hope in 2012, then the conservative Republicans are in deep trouble. Actually, she is what they stand for which I don't agree with. Need to keep religion out of politics–separation of church and state. What part of our Bill of Rights/Constitution don't they get?

Sarah Palin was invited but not John McCain? FAIL.

lol to 'A Great Man!' call him what you want but President Elect Obama is the 44th President of the United states of America, you ungracious individual, you...There are plenty of us who will be addressing him as Mr. President Sir! so your r magnanimity and grace isn’t needed by him but you caould have used a bit...

These are people that do not beleve in democracy

That's just SAD AND MEAN! However, the Republican brand is the party that he loves, remember.

OBAMA/BIDEN -08!

I consider myself conservative, on the libertariian wing, and they really
need to get back to the basics. small government, fiscal responsibility,
strong defense. I chose Obama because tax and spend is more
responsible than borrow and spend. Some choice. Raping the environment is not conservative. And try reading what is on the
Statue of Liberty. If they continue down the lunatic fringe path,
the beatings will continue. It is not as bad as is seems, as the
electoral vote was a real beatdown, but popular vote was close.
If the economic meltdown had happened 3 months later, and it
was cooking for years, McCain would have won.

I agree with you Rob. I just hope they invite Joe the Plumber

The election is finally over, and the people of this country have made their choice. Whether you agree with the pick or not:

IT IS TIME TO UNITE, AND BECOME ONE STRONG, PROUD AMERICA ONCE AGAIN!!!!!!!

GET IT TOGETHER MY LIBERAL AND CONSERVATIVE BROTHERS AND SISTERS!!!!!!!!!

McCain was used, he's got to know it by now, and the CPAC snub is probably actually good for him. Especially if they are cuddling up to Palin – if she is the direction the Republicans decide to take after this election, McCain would be far better served going Independent. I don't wish Palin ill, but I do wish her and the hate mongers in that whole wing of my former party GONE.

I think its time for Sen McCain to reflect on what has happened. I suspect he will be a valued advisor to the next Republican nominee and his first advice will be to run as far away from the far left wing of his party.
They did nothing to help him in this election, and in a time when people were looking for moderation and hope, they came out on their own and spread lies and fear.

John McCain made the fatal error of politics of identifying with what he thought was the "republican core." My guess is that in the next couple of years we will no longer be calling these ultra conservatives as the core of the party. but rather the outer core.

Why Couldnt Mccain stay the Way He Was like last night in His Speech, I guess thats what happens when you sell your soul for power SAD!

Sen. McCain, even though I didn't vote for you this time, I wanted you to know that you should be proud that they don't want you. You are better then they.

Who do you all have to balme!!! Try the GOP!!! This a repudiation and indictment of the GOP!!! The GOP has systematically run this country into the ground!! And you have the audacity to want 4 more years to finish us off!!!

Well, that's what happen when you are a lone "maverick".

Obama for President; I believe my grandparents just rolled over in their graves.

Ugh!

2012!!!! Anyone but Obama...

The John McCain that ran this campaign should not be invited, but I believe he will end his career on a high note and do everything he can to help America, and Barack Obama.

there are 2 losers in this situation...mcain and lieberman. and they will have lost for what they truely believe in.

McCain's political career is pretty much over. It's now time for him to retire to one of his 7 or 8 houses.
I still say if he didn't have That One from Alaska as his VP running mate he would have faired better. He lost big time (by nearly 200 electoral votes).

Was Conscience of a Conservative by Barry Goldwater invited?

It really... really.... REALLY couldn't hurt.

I actually like and respect McCain-Palin, however, what are these people thinking???

I finally saw the "real" Mccain when he gave his concession speech. Too bad the GOP took a good man and made him into something he is not.

He didn't win is one big reason that he isn't being invited. Some of the statements while on the campaign trail didn't sound very conservative to me either. Is it that conservatives like people who come in lock step with their ideals?

Sarah is an ideolog who doesn't really understand what being conservative is. She shouldn't be allowed back on the national scene unless she has served several terms as Senator and member of the House after completing at least another term as governor.

John McCain will now have face up to the consequences of losing the election. This is just the first of many to come.

I would, however, caution Former Speaker Gingrich and Gov Jindal to focus on the basic reason the GOP got trounced in yesterday's election: The American public has had its fill of Extremism. It is time to distance the party from the fundamentalist, religious right vitriol of last century; there is no future in it.

Isn't that a shame. Good riddens McCain, no more lies.........time to retire.

I look forward to hearing more from the Conservative Political Action Conference in the near future.

The mere fact that Palin was included is a clear sign of poor judgment.

He's tired, let him go home and rest.

Obama/Biden 08

Wow they are throwing him under the bus less than 24 hours after the election? See that is the problem. Instead of looking at what Obama has said and done, you automatically start pointing fingers. Your conservatives views are like most things in America, outdated and past it's time. You no longer can rule by fear and hate Republicans. No one fears you and no cares about your so called conservative values. If anything most of us mainly 65 million of us are laughing at you. You ideology of the world does not work. That is why every other country was cheering louder than us americans last night. Your reign is over. If the republican party wants to change, throw away your old rule book and create a philosphy that is condusive to the 21st century. When you stop letting those few bible thumping, greedy, self serving idiots run your party Republicans, then you too may have the support of the American people, and not just the few racist bigots.

Senator John McCain, I am sorry that I will be unable to call you "President McCain" in the near future; however, I will NOT refer to Obama as "President," though as Barry.

Senator McCain, I respect you, I voted for you, and I wish you well.

McCain!

Poor John don't get invited and Sarah does, how funny. Best wishes to John. The Mac Is Back.

McCain, although he is a good man, he got nasty, jealous, out of touch, lier and a total looser. His brain needs some repair and he will be welcome to any Mental Institution he chooses to go now.

They eat their young. What do you expect.

Too bad. Sen. McCain has learned a lot over the last few months that would benefit them greatly if they chose to include him.

whoa, as a democrat, I thought McCain was actually a great guy and someone independents could vote for (without Palin). Now they are dumping him and making Palin a spokeswoman? The whole party must want to flush themselves down the toilet.

I guess McCain won't be joining the dark side. Time for the NEW
illuminati.