Debate #1 wrap-up; Update: Kissinger repudiates Obama
posted at 11:06 pm on September 26, 2008 by Ed Morrissey
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Given the uncertainty surrounding the presidential debate tonight, I wasn’t sure exactly what to expect. Both Barack Obama and John McCain have had to fly more than they expected in the last couple of days, and neither got a chance to focus on preparation, at least not to the extent they planned. I figured we’d see at least one major gaffe or breakdown from one of the candidates, and honestly, I wasn’t looking forward to seeing it.
However, I think both men did better than I expected. Neither seemed to show any effects from the hectic pace of the past week, and both appeared ready and relaxed at the start of tonight’s debate. I’d also include Jim Lehrer in that description, even though he had to rewrite part of his script to accommodate the economic crisis. Lehrer gave the debate a light touch as moderator, allowing the candidates plenty of space to talk and encouraging dialogue rather than speechmaking. It was perhaps one of the best presidential debates I’ve seen in this cycle, maybe the best.
With that said, McCain clearly got the best of Obama tonight. After a shaky couple of minutes to start the first question, McCain jabbed at Obama all night long — and he got Obama obviously flustered. While McCain kept his equanimity and never raised his tone or pitch, Obama got visibly upset, his voice pitched higher when responding to McCain, and Obama interrupted more. Obama also kept calling McCain “John” while McCain used the more proper “Senator Obama”, a difference that grated as the evening wore on.
Substantially, McCain also bested Obama on both economics and foreign policy. On the former, it was most apparent when Lehrer asked both candidates what they would cut as President after the bailout package passes. Obama could not bring himself to commit to one single cut, and instead talked about all of the funding he wanted to create for pet programs. McCain noted that he has long championed spending reductions and proposed a spending freeze on all but the most vital programs. When challenged on this point, Obama refused to say whether he would accept a freeze.
I did have a moment of frustration with McCain on the first question, a round I think Obama won. He never challenged Obama’s assumptions that the current credit crisis came from too little regulation. I kept expecting McCain to talk about the disaster of the Community Reinvestment Act, and the mandates from Congress that Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac encourage bad lending by buying up bad paper. Instead, he tried to out-populist Obama, and Obama sounds more authentic as a populist.
On foreign policy, Obama did better than expected, but still fell short. I think his response on the decision to go into Iraq was quite good (even if I disagree with it), but he kept trying to argue that he didn’t demand a precipitous withdrawal in 2007 when the record clearly shows he did — and he beat Hillary to death with it in the primaries. McCain drew blood when he pointed out that for all of Obama’s talk about the priority of Afghanistan, he never once bothered to visit that front until last July, even though his Senate subcommittee has jurisdiction on NATO issues. Obama spluttered in response but never did explain why such an important theater wasn’t worth a single visit from him.
On Georgia, Russia, and eastern Europe, McCain proved himself the master of detailed foreign-policy thinking. While Obama talked briefly about the potential for NATO membership for Georgia and Ukraine and pledged to “rebuild Georgia’s economy”, McCain explained the geopolitical realities of the entire region, and Russia’s intentions for it.
If Obama expected the old man to be too tired to debate properly, he is surely disappointed tonight. McCain kept Obama on defense all night long, made Obama lose his composure, and maintained his own in a very presidential performance. This one is a clear win for McCain.
Update: Obama tried to twist out of the “no preconditions” statement by claiming that Henry Kissinger supported it. McCain openly scoffed at the notion, and for good reason — Kissinger didn’t say it:
Henry Kissinger believes Barack Obama misstated his views on diplomacy with US adversaries and is not happy about being mischaracterized. He says: “Senator McCain is right. I would not recommend the next President of the United States engage in talks with Iran at the Presidential level. My views on this issue are entirely compatible with the views of my friend Senator John McCain. We do not agree on everything, but we do agree that any negotiations with Iran must be geared to reality.”
Either Obama lied, or he’s too inexperienced to understand what Kissinger said and actually meant.
One more point about Obama’s obfuscations about “preparations” as opposed to “preconditions”: he originally said that he would meet with Ahmadinejad, Castro, Kim, and Chavez in his first year in office:
QUESTION: In 1982, Anwar Sadat traveled to Israel, a trip that resulted in a peace agreement that has lasted ever since.
In the spirit of that type of bold leadership, would you be willing to meet separately, without precondition, during the first year of your administration, in Washington or anywhere else, with the leaders of Iran, Syria, Venezuela, Cuba and North Korea, in order to bridge the gap that divides our countries?
COOPER: I should also point out that Stephen is in the crowd tonight.
Senator Obama?
OBAMA: I would. And the reason is this, that the notion that somehow not talking to countries is punishment to them — which has been the guiding diplomatic principle of this administration — is ridiculous.
How much “preparation” time would he have?
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Just so long as a debate on a political forum doesn’t get to the point of needing affordable health care. Politicians would never discuss such an issue would they? I discuss it with every post. I save people money on a regular basis.
BTW, Blogs are not products.
ThackerAgency on September 27, 2008 at 2:01 AM
I agree, but I really wonder how it comes across to true, unbiased Indies.
This election has me fired up and screaming Conservative/ Republican from the rooftops. Rewind back some years and calling someone “left” would have absolutely no meaning for me. I still cringe every time I hear McCain or Republicans using terms like “left” or “liberal” in opposition to someone else, since the Indies (like me some years ago) don’t care about the labels.
I kept trying to watch this from a middle of the road, undecided perspective and it seemed like a draw. McCain was the elder statesman with abundant experience. Obama was the young professional “agent of change”. Now a days, change is tempting for a lot of folks, unless someone tell them clearly and succinctly defines that change as the insanity and ignorance it really is.
Just guessing… hope I am wrong.
Damiano on September 27, 2008 at 2:01 AM
and your name is Thacker Agency, Whacker? You have integrity……how?
I only throw insults at people who fully deserve them. My “insult” to you was to make fun of your bloated ego.
You actually said people will miss you. In my two years here, I’ve never heard anyone say that. Either you have the Mother of All Egos, or……who knows?
You’re not ‘in the open”: you’re just another unintelligent clown throwing out insults IN ALL CAPS at Republicans and conservatives. You confuse integrity with dim-witted unfocused confusion
and when we get to the part where I give a sh+t about what you think, I’ll let you know………..
Janos Hunyadi on September 27, 2008 at 2:02 AM
Yeah, that’s what we were all saying. We pretty much decided it was futile and now are going to stay home on the 5th. We all trembled at the searing logic of his fiery intellect.
hawkdriver on September 27, 2008 at 2:03 AM
…and Whacker is an INSURANCE SALESMAN, and posts here to make a few bucks while suffering Slings & Arrows
this gets better and better.
Janos Hunyadi on September 27, 2008 at 2:05 AM
Let me guess. Your name is ACTUALLY Janos Hunyadi.
I’m not of the opinion that who I am matters. I understand the limitations of this board. The ‘Whacker’ thing is just brilliant – did you just come up with that?
Try ‘HACKER’ and give me a little more information about you please. . . how about an email address?
ThackerAgency on September 27, 2008 at 2:05 AM
It would’ve been nice, but there’s no way any presidential candidate is going to criticize a program designed to boost minority home ownership.
Oldy McOlson. Dude, if you’re not even going to try, don’t bother.
RightOFLeft on September 27, 2008 at 2:06 AM
Well,
Obama addressed McCain as “John” 25 times but also addressed him as “Senator McCain” 35 times. But Senator McCain always addressed Obama as “Senator Obama.” Not once did Senator McCain addressed Obama as “Obama” like Obama already dismissively addressed McCain as “John” so many times.
Kokonut on September 27, 2008 at 2:07 AM
I think you’re right to an extent, but I also think it’s a way of nuttering of convictions to be scared to label the political opposition for what it is. They certainly aren’t worried about their appearance when they call us every name in the book. NEOCON fascist nut root conservative. Do you think that turns off Indies from their point of view?
hawkdriver on September 27, 2008 at 2:07 AM
McCain slipped-up by calling Iran’s Revolutionary Guards, “Republican Guards”. Obama didn’t catch it and even repeated the mistake.
toliver on September 27, 2008 at 2:09 AM
Tell your friend to be very quiet and keep safe.
+
I have difficulty with people who devote themselves to promoting themselves. So, the only ads my member name links to are for a greater purpose than my narrow self interest. Currently, my name links to the recent Catholic Vote 2008 ad. I love that ad. However, I also have linked to the ending of McCain’s convention speech, and will again at times. It still makes me very proud of him and our country.
Fight with me.
Fight with me!
Fight for what’s right for our country!
Fight for the ideals and character of a free people!
Fight for our children’s future!
Fight for justice and opportunity for all!
Stand up to defend our country from its enemies!
Stand up for each other; for beautiful, blessed, bountiful America!
Stand up!
Stand up!
Stand up and fight!
Nothing is inevitable here!
We’re Americans, and we never give up!
We never quit!
We never hide from history!
We make history!
Loxodonta on September 27, 2008 at 2:11 AM
shhhh
:-)
hawkdriver on September 27, 2008 at 2:11 AM
Obama could have came out and called McCain Mutha F***er repeatedly and his followers would have praised him for it.
GoodBoy on September 27, 2008 at 2:11 AM
What I’m finding at this late hour is that while the left is slamming as many polls as they can find, there are few articles saying “Obama won!” That tells me that even they know which candidate had the best showing. Go McCain!
Connie on September 27, 2008 at 2:11 AM
Kokonut on September 27, 2008 at 2:07 AM
That made me nuts.
Sr. Senator “John.”
Disabled combat vet “John.”
Obama’s elder “John.”
What a smeghead.
Yes, Jr. Senator “Smeghead.”
29Victor on September 27, 2008 at 2:12 AM
Maybe McCain at the next debate should start calling him Junior Senator Obama. LMAO
Chakra Hammer on September 27, 2008 at 2:14 AM
I’m not of that opinion, either. And don’t make cyber-threats. That’s your first and last warning
Janos Hunyadi on September 27, 2008 at 2:14 AM
LOL, I am getting tired “Neutering our convictions”.
Lox, like I said, your ad-link made me weepy. That issue is the reason I left my familys liberal politics and started my conservative transformation under Ronaldo Maximus.
hawkdriver on September 27, 2008 at 2:15 AM
McCain ‘Junior Senator Obama and full time campaigner..” LMAO..
Chakra Hammer on September 27, 2008 at 2:15 AM
For those that are mad about Senator McCain not bringing up ACORN, or the other horrendous issues like Frank and Dodd, might I remind you that we need a GOOD bill out of this mess. Right now we have them over a barrel, and I think if any indications of the latest pressers, somewhat on the ropes. McCain is going to need some votes to get what Cantor et al have proposed. We need the business tax cut and drilling to take place to help get money back into the country and I heard that kind of stuff is suppose to be in the Cantor proposal.
Plus, this is like a card game. You got to know when to hold em and know when to fold and walk away. Why tip your hand now with the economic debate coming up? I think Obama gave away his tells and showed his cards.
And we are Conservatives that want these scumbags to finally pay for their dirty deeds. Bush has been shoving down our throats this bipartisanship excrement for 8 years and this is where we are now, with another aisle reacher. Did any of you really expect McCain to b-slap him over the reality of this current bill? And Leher’s question was not about why McCain went off the Washington and almost called off the debates; it was about the connection between the economy and national security. He later asked where the two stood on the bill.
I agree he could have done better, but if I were a indie or mod squad, I would want McCain just based on sheer experience, knowledge base and dedication for being a party of one who really does have a record that shows he is for the people of this nation.
As an aside, someone need to clue Luntz in to the fact that a former Kerry voter is NOT an independent. That group he tested was TAINTED! EW!
freeus on September 27, 2008 at 2:15 AM
McCain won’t be hurt by that good because Obama repeated it. Barry missed a small opportunity there to score a point.
=====================
I don’t think this debate changes much.
BTW, I was cooking when this thing was on, and I didn’t see who was laughing under his breath. Was that McCain?
toliver on September 27, 2008 at 2:16 AM
You are, though.
[FLUSH]
Jim Treacher on September 27, 2008 at 2:17 AM
I did lament that earlier!
You’re right of course. It’s just infuriating to know that it’s part of the process that caused the bailout and the Dems want a couple billion to go right back to them.
Audacious!
hawkdriver on September 27, 2008 at 2:18 AM
What is so horrific is that Obama’s young base is so ignorant of real history because those who have taught them have been successful at rewriting it in the classroom.
Connie on September 27, 2008 at 2:18 AM
Olbermann and the rest of the MSNBC dorks aren’t even mentioning the Kissinger slap.
Speedwagon82 on September 27, 2008 at 2:19 AM
You might have heard me laughing at the way Obie was wagging his finger and trying to get a word in on the Senior Statesman who was on a roll.
“Now John, er, no, um, er no, no, you mischaracterized, er”
hawkdriver on September 27, 2008 at 2:21 AM
If it’s anything out in public like the young soldiers I know who were singing his praises, that’s on the downslide. To quote Rush, the blooms off teh rose. I don’t hear the same kids as excited for Obie. (And I’ve converted a couple)
hawkdriver on September 27, 2008 at 2:23 AM
Of course not. What everyone has to remember is that the MSM is not going to do a thing to help McCain. It’s up to us. Everyone here should be involved in linking all positive McCain/Palin articles, as well as using the buzz feature here. Remeber that anyone can submit any article to Yahoo Buzz, so keep your eyes peeled and take the time to do it. We conservatives are on our own and must be proactive.
Connie on September 27, 2008 at 2:25 AM
Agreed. In my earlier list of careers in deperate need of infiltration by conservatives, I only listed college professors. It’s the whole educational field from pre-school on up.
I think the problem started with the generation born after WWII, then it went on to the new math, new science, new religion, new politics. Everything is new! Right down to the new-ance popularized in the new Obama English.
Sometimes, I think people shouldn’t trust anyone under the age of 70.
Loxodonta on September 27, 2008 at 2:28 AM
Amen Connie and on that positive note, off to bed.
Again, he did good tonight and lets keep the faith and now pray for a similiar showing by Governor Palin.
hawkdriver on September 27, 2008 at 2:31 AM
If I were McCain, I would have waited for Barry to pull this crap 3 or 4 times, then I would have started referring to him as “son”. “Excuse me, son…” “The young man to my left voted…”, etc.
RightWinged on September 27, 2008 at 2:36 AM
Whats with Krauthammer, heres his take on tonights debate.
dmann on September 27, 2008 at 2:36 AM
On a certain level, I’ve got to agree with Krauthammer, even though it pains me.
Obama needed to come through this without falling on his face and with a reasonable facsimile of knowledge and depth. He did that. His biggest weakness is in making people feel that he’s a “safe” choice along with the “change” BS. So, he hit his marks.
McCain needed to dominate and he didn’t. He was solid, knowledgeable, likable and all the rest… but he didn’t shine and he didn’t slap the punk kid back to Chi-town. People already trust McCain though and they already know he’s on top of things. So his bar is higher and he has to prove that 1. the kid from Chicagoland is a corrupt, worthless punk and 2. get folks excited or at least warm and fuzzy.
Since McCain missed these last two points while putting in an otherwise unblemished and solid performance; fair or not, he still gets a “pass” but no “W00T!1!”
Damiano on September 27, 2008 at 2:50 AM
Bailout bill, once 3 pages, swells in length
It’s doubling in size every 6 hours.
RUN don’t walk from the bloodcurdling threat of
THE BAILOUT!
Loxodonta on September 27, 2008 at 2:50 AM
Sounds like he got his back up.
(Too soon?)
Jim Treacher on September 27, 2008 at 2:50 AM
Overall thought-
McCain treats Obama with genuine respect, even though he’s not adverse to the occasional dig or critical observation.
Obama is on a calculated mission to discredit and destroy McCain with plausible deniability and under the guise of competitiveness and respect.
McCain needs to take the gloves off and remember that he is dealing with a hostile enemy in sheep’s clothing.
Damiano on September 27, 2008 at 2:54 AM
Obama the Most Extreme Liberal Voting Record in the Senate
Biden The 3rd Most Extreme Liberal Voting Record in the Senate
Obama/Biden = The Most Extremist Liberal Ticket
Chakra Hammer on September 27, 2008 at 2:56 AM
Well, we’re f**ked…
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2008/09/26/debate-reviews-go-to-obam_n_129803.html
Seems like everyone is calling Barry the winner.
And though I haven’t finished watching it myself, I am disappointed in McCain’s apparent weakness. He didn’t take it to Barry enough. He didn’t point out that he and other Republicans were pushing for regulation while Barry, Dodd, Frank, etc. were opposing it and getting hundreds of thousands in campaign money for their efforts. He didn’t break his balls for his repeated lies. He didn’t mock him over Biden’s gaffes, and the fact that just a couple of months ago Biden basically said Obama wasn’t qualified.
When all the talk was about taxes, and Barry kept talking about “wealthiest Americans”, etc. Why didn’t McCain point out that tax revenues reached record levels after Bush lowered taxes, because the cuts were “pro growth”. Why didn’t he also point out that despite the lies of Obama and friends, the rich now shoulder a larger percentage of the burden than they already did.
Come on Mac, wtf!?
RightWinged on September 27, 2008 at 2:57 AM
Obama/Biden To Extremely Socialist for America.
Chakra Hammer on September 27, 2008 at 2:58 AM
McCain did not want to do that, because he didn’t want to point fingers, Obama should be taken to the woodshed by the media for making the bailout partisan.
Chakra Hammer on September 27, 2008 at 3:00 AM
The bailout is not signed yet, and Obama is signing blame! WTF.. How is that going to help ANYTHING?
Chakra Hammer on September 27, 2008 at 3:01 AM
i heard a little bit of the debate thru radio, McCain sounded in command, Obama didn’t though at times he sounded like he could play the role for a TV show
jp on September 27, 2008 at 3:02 AM
I thought Obama glowed for the first 30 minutes. I was worried because McCain looked soft and stiff. But then, McCain got stronger and stronger, while Obama was losing his cool, trying to interrupt, trying to “me too.” McCain dominated the last 45 minutes.
Obama’s Kissinger lie will sting him. Obama’s inability to remember the name of the Marine killed in action without reading ti from his notes will sting. But most of all, McCain’s line that he doesn’t need on-the-job training, while Obama does, will be remembered by a lot of people seeking safety and security on election day.
Loxodonta on September 27, 2008 at 3:03 AM
McCain took Obama back to “Bitch School” – sorry I was channeling Spinal Tap.
HawaiiLwyr on September 27, 2008 at 3:03 AM
Remember, there are two more sessions left, plus the VP duel (where Sarah will be packing strong while Gaffemaster Flash will be, er, Gaffemaster Flash).
I just hope McMaverick uses this line on earmarks:
either orr on September 27, 2008 at 3:03 AM
Maybe at the next debate after the bailout is signed and the debate is on the economy, McCain will bring it up… and school Barry on a little history lesson, on how the partisan Democrats Blocked reforms to gain power in 2006 by blocking all Reforms and legislation.
The Democrats filibusters caused this mess, the Democrats said that if they got power they would fix this, well.. they have had power for 2 years and they did not a damn thing, yet reforms have been block and stone walled by the democrats!
Chakra Hammer on September 27, 2008 at 3:04 AM
No offense, but HuffPo isn’t exactly the place for unbiased news. Quite the opposite.
TexasBella on September 27, 2008 at 3:07 AM
There’s just so much, Chakra, that McMaverick still has in his holster.
Imagine this, if you will…
either orr on September 27, 2008 at 3:08 AM
I don’t even read that rag, whats the point?
Chakra Hammer on September 27, 2008 at 3:09 AM
If the polls turn out to be correct the reason for the Obama win is that people thiougth that McCain was too tough on Obama.
johnt on September 27, 2008 at 3:09 AM
If the majority of people who watched the debate actually think Obama won then this election is over. Facts, truth and honesty obviously do not matter anymore. Guilt, terminal BDS and empty rhetoric are carrying the day. Good night America, you were wonderful while you lasted!
All Hail the Messiah!
dmann on September 27, 2008 at 3:12 AM
I didn’t watch or listen. Can I come out of my bunker or should I accept that Oblamo is the winner of everything and prepare for the end times?
Bishop on September 27, 2008 at 3:12 AM
WTF happened to my post??? – I even referenced Spinal Tap in conjunction with the debate…
HawaiiLwyr on September 27, 2008 at 3:14 AM
Senator Obama, why didn’t you ever expose any corruption in Chicago? Why did you keep taking Bribes and Campaign Cash From Tony Rezko After he failed to Heat the Buildings of the constituents in your district during the winter of 1997? You took loads of cash from him after that… Why? How come? Do you not care for the poor people freezing their asses off or do you care about selling them out more? Senator Obama why did you do a land and house deal with the same slumlord after he was brought up on charges and indited? WTF?
Chakra Hammer on September 27, 2008 at 3:14 AM
RightWinged said “We’re F**ked” and “Seems like everyone is calling Barry the winner.” while referring to a HuffPo link. I would trust the info on HuffPo about as much as I do DailyKOS. In other words, not at all.
TexasBella on September 27, 2008 at 3:15 AM
One of the reasons I was disappointed in the beginning of the debate is that McCain wasn’t fighting for the best possible bailout. It took me a long time to realize he was doing that because he was being a statesman in the midst of negotiations. Obama wasn’t at all statesmanlike regarding any topic throughout the debate.
Loxodonta on September 27, 2008 at 3:15 AM
If you watch the focus group videos, especially Luntz, it seems like these people are making their decisions on who won almost solely on style.
johnt on September 27, 2008 at 3:15 AM
Thanks Tex, but this ain’t my first rodeo. I’m well aware of what HuffPo is… Look at the polls they’re citing though. MSM polls. Now, we know where the MSM approaches things from, but the results, including the FOX NEWS FOCUS GROUP, are frightening. McCain should have destroyed him, and sadly he didn’t. Did he technically “win” on the facts, for us junkies? Probably… but we aren’t the ones that need to be swayed.
Irrelevant. First of all, what the media “should” do, isn’t what they will do. Secondly, perception is what is important here… and as you can see if you follow that HuffPo link, the perception is that Obama won. Believe me, I’m not happy about it… I’m just trying to wake people up.
RightWinged on September 27, 2008 at 3:18 AM
What was the participant count in those polls?
Have you seen Drudge’s lately?
Loxodonta on September 27, 2008 at 3:23 AM
were the hell are the 527’s attacking Obama????
This guy should be creamed
jp on September 27, 2008 at 3:25 AM
SnarkVader on September 27, 2008 at 3:26 AM
Obama why were close friends with Rezko for 17 years?
In 17 years you never found Rezko to be corrupt, now he’s a convicted felon maybe you have bad judgment?
Obama, in 20 years you never found Rev. Wright to be a racist black separatist, with very a very bad theology, maybe you have bad judgement?
Obama, to this day, you still don’t see anything wrong with being cozy with an unrepentant terrorist that organized riots blew up US Government property and harmed US Citizens, maybe you have bad judgment?
Chakra Hammer on September 27, 2008 at 3:27 AM
Well if the Bailout Fails, Obama can get the Blame!
Chakra Hammer on September 27, 2008 at 3:29 AM
You probably won’t hear much about this focus group, nine Democrats and five Republicans from a Democrat state and McCain is still viewed as the winner -
http://tinyurl.com/4xfaeu
jp on September 27, 2008 at 3:29 AM
Drudge is a web poll. These MSM instant polls are somewhat more legitimate phone polls. The problem is that republicans are undersampled. But the reality is that these polls, however questionable, influence the media narrative in favor of Obama which influences voters.
johnt on September 27, 2008 at 3:30 AM
A lot will start up in the final weeks before the election.
johnt on September 27, 2008 at 3:31 AM
I understand the media narrative. It’s gotten more intense during every election for the past 20 years. If I followed the media narrative, I would be supporting Obama and would have voted for Clinton, Clinton, Gore, & Kerry.
There needs to be someplace where the media narrative is challenged.
The Drudge poll is certainly not scientific, but it is a very large sample.
Loxodonta on September 27, 2008 at 3:36 AM
I think the CBS poll HuffPo is posting on is an Internet Poll
jp on September 27, 2008 at 3:38 AM
Journalistic integrity is dead, they are all int eh Tank for Obama, it’s not just him though they did it for Kerry also..
they are Liberals, the Liberal Media need fundamental reforms, and it starts with the editors, and the producers, also the journalists themselves need to be held accountable, Other journalists need to hold each other to account, it’s hard to do when they are all liberals(they are in a bubble(so most of them NEED TO GO.. they need more conservatives in there, and they need a course on Journalistic integrity and BIAS)
Chakra Hammer on September 27, 2008 at 3:41 AM
Thanks. that made an interesting read.
Loxodonta on September 27, 2008 at 3:42 AM
Just remember Ron Paul won all the internet and phone polls also. LMAO
Chakra Hammer on September 27, 2008 at 3:42 AM
Exactly. Plus, while Drudge is incredibly influential, it is folks “like us” who frequent the site, and vote in the that non-scientific web poll.
But you give too much credit to the rest of the country. You are smarter than most. This is clearly evident, just looking at the fact that McCain didn’t gain on Obama until the Palin pick. Obama was essentially a shoe in, yet none of his supporters have any idea why they support him. The percentage of retards far outweighs those of us who are informed, and the media has got the full court press on now.
I’m not saying McCain can’t recover, and I see (after catching more of the end of the debate now) that McCain did pick it up a little later on… but he really needs to be more aggressive. He has the upper hand in the debates. He has the experience and the knowledge. He rambled off a lot of “facts” that you know Obama had no clue about tonight, but Obama played the populist game much better (i.e. appealed to the simple people). Everyone knows Obama can’t handle the debates, which is why he refused the “1 town hall a week” request, but McCain should have made that point even more clear tonight.
RightWinged on September 27, 2008 at 3:45 AM
All you need is about 500 people with Anonymous Internet service and lots of time to retake the polls over and over..
Chakra Hammer on September 27, 2008 at 3:46 AM
Last comment, then the pillow calls…
Remember how all the so-called pundits were saying that The Most Holey One would try to set off McMaverick’s legendary temper?
He failed miserably.
In fact, he’s the one whose cool melted while McMaverick even flashed a few smiles, my friends.
Obama… change that makes you puke.
Peace.
either orr on September 27, 2008 at 3:47 AM
Yes. And it’s been true a long time. So, what are conservatives doing about it?
Loxodonta on September 27, 2008 at 3:48 AM
Ip address Changes… close your browser(have your browser to automatically clear all cookies) take the poll over..you could even have a bot set up do it
Chakra Hammer on September 27, 2008 at 3:49 AM
Obama is lucky the economic crap hit this week and part of this debate was changed to economy.
90 minutes of FP and it would’ve been ugly
jp on September 27, 2008 at 3:49 AM
Why do conservatives only vote once on election day? Because they are honest citizens, who follow the law.
Why do dead liberals, and why do liberals vote more that once, and illegal aliens vote on election day? Because they are liars and cheaters
Chakra Hammer on September 27, 2008 at 3:51 AM
McCain? Recover? Are you Allah’s sockpuppet?
The pessimism around here is enough to make you want to hang it up. McCain beat Obama’s ___ so bad he needs Desitin.
capitalist piglet on September 27, 2008 at 3:54 AM
And now for something completley different.
29Victor on September 27, 2008 at 3:57 AM
I wish you could find it in yourself to have a little more faith in the common people of America. They are not the smartest people, or the richest, or the most attractive, or most famous. But they do keep this country functioning. And it does take them a lot of time to do that, so they don’t have much time left to deal with politics. And as a result, they sometimes make mistakes when they vote. But, for the most part, for over 200 years, the common folk of our country have done a very good job at self-government.
Try to keep that close to heart when you worry.
Loxodonta on September 27, 2008 at 3:58 AM
It’s been so long since I had to deal with a baby’s diaper rash that I had to look that up.
Now I’m getting nostalgic.
Remembering binkies.
Loxodonta on September 27, 2008 at 4:04 AM
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AiEWCnpNnBQ
Chakra Hammer on September 27, 2008 at 4:04 AM
The counter argument can be made that if in fact these polls are overestimating Obama then in the end the short term “Obama Won” media narrative wont matter because the media hasn’t mattered all that much during this election. I mean, the media have done all they can to shill for Obama and yet McCain is still right there. I wouldn’t worry much unless Obama were to shoot up 10 points in the tracking polls in the coming days. Then there would be a problem.
johnt on September 27, 2008 at 4:04 AM
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H5tZc8oH–o
Chakra Hammer on September 27, 2008 at 4:10 AM
Good points. I’ve just been burned a bit when mocking AllahPundit for his pessimism… like in 2006, he was so sure we were going to lose, and I was absolutely convinced we’d pull it out… in the end he was right. Now I’ve watched months of his “pessimistic blogger” routine, and then seeing the snap polls after this debate, I’m just a little worried.
Again, I think McCain could swing things back his way, if he tries. I’m just worried he’s going to take the “stay out of the mud” approach. I hate this approach. We’ve seen what it did to Bush all of these years. Everyone calls me a liar on WMDs? Well, instead of busting them for spending 13 years making the same case, I’ll just say “oops, bad intel”, etc. You can’t do that with these evil SOBs and their media allies. You have to hit hard, partly because most people don’t take the time to research enough (whether they can or not) and the media isn’t going to give you headlines unless you make some noise.
You’re 100% right. I guess I’m just sort of anticipating that… because the debate, coupled with more nonsense with this bailout, I am afraid to see where things go. But, I’m still “hopeful”… I guess I’m just having delusions of grandeur, and hoping that McCain people are reading these comments and will be like “RightWinged says we need to be more aggressive” and then we’ll see a new McCain tomorrow.
RightWinged on September 27, 2008 at 4:19 AM
Not all liberals are liars and cheaters. Most of them are basically honest citizens who are simply wrong. Some will only be convinced they are wrong when the consequences of liberal reality mug them. But for many, maybe most, even that will not be enough. It is a culture, and people do not change their cultural traditions easily.
Conservatives have to do a better job at infiltrating the culturally influential sectors of society that liberals dominate. What are conservatives doing to help more conservatives become and stay in jobs as educators and journalists? We desperately need more conservatives in these fields.
Loxodonta on September 27, 2008 at 4:26 AM
With all this going on, who would really want to be President?
Like the captain of the Titanic (as reviewed by MST3K):
“I’m gonna sink this bitch!”
TexasJew on September 27, 2008 at 4:27 AM
What are conservatives doing to help more conservatives become and stay in jobs as educators and journalists? We desperately need more conservatives in these fields.
Loxodonta on September 27, 2008 at 4:26 AM
Conservatives aren’t that stupid, however. They like being successful. Maybe we should just go into better-paying positions where we can just shitcan the lib educators and journalists.
TexasJew on September 27, 2008 at 4:30 AM
If you’re gonna keep calling Senator Obama “The One” or “Messiah,” two deeply offensive terms to many Christians who see it as a subtle attempt to otherize Obama or call him an antichrist, well, turnabout is fair game.
philnewkirk on September 27, 2008 at 4:33 AM
Sorry to burst your balloon, but I am the one directing McCain’s campaign here. I send Rove coded messages in every post. He decodes, then passes them along. I thought everyone knew that.
(If your nice, I’ll give you your own decoder ring.)
Loxodonta on September 27, 2008 at 4:34 AM
A few thoughts:
1. Supporters of both will say the other won, obviously…it’s the middle, stupid. And, if they are remotely engaged, I think McCain had the edge.
2. While trying to watch Obama as an Obama supporter would, I liked him at first, felt his tone was even and intelligent, but was shocked by the circumlocution and outright vacuity. WOW. He was taken to task.
3. O tried to pin Bush’s legacy to M, but, seriously…M has been in office for 26 years over many administrations singing the same tune again and again. The record speaks while O simply throws out lies seeing if it will, at least, damage the image of M rather than elevate the discourse, as promised.
4. Funny lines: “I’ve got a bracelet, too.” “My dad is Kenyan.” (sounds a wee bit like Palin’s “I can see Alaska” though I imagine this wont get mentioned.) How about actually GOING to the places and checking it out?
5. HOW MANY TIMES IS HE GOING TO REFER TO THESE OLDER GENTLEMEN BY THEIR FIRST NAMES? goodness. This was a formal debate, not a town hall and not a conversation in a small-town diner….but, his young, history-challenged, give-it-to-me-now club will see that as “a new kind of politics” and love the lack of decorum. Bleh.
Mommypundit on September 27, 2008 at 4:34 AM
If Obama gets elected by millions of stupid voters, they will deserve their fate.
We can only do so much. I’m just proud of Cantor and the other Republicans in Congress. They stood up and fought for freedom and the Constitution without a lot of RINO crapola and I’m very proud to be a Republican.
TexasJew on September 27, 2008 at 4:36 AM
I interpreted the bracelet line as a gag to mock JOHN.
philnewkirk on September 27, 2008 at 4:36 AM
Sweet!
RightWinged on September 27, 2008 at 4:39 AM
As a Concerned Christian McCain supporter, I’m deeply offended by those terms.
CherokeeJack on September 27, 2008 at 4:50 AM
McCain lost in the sense that Obama didn’t make a gigantic gaffe or proclaim his love of Karl Marx. As long as the nutroots hears Obama’s baritone and sees his tallness, they would say he is a better debater than Abe Lincoln.
Speedwagon82 on September 27, 2008 at 4:55 AM
5. HOW MANY TIMES IS HE GOING TO REFER TO THESE OLDER GENTLEMEN BY THEIR FIRST NAMES?
Mommypundit on September 27, 2008 at 4:34 AM
Maybe it was just another way of asking “Are you my daddy?”
TexasJew on September 27, 2008 at 4:55 AM
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