McCain vs. Obama Debate III Coverage

10:57pm:
I'm calling this one for McCain. Goodnight.

I'll be curious to see if the Ayers/Acorn stuff actually sticks. I would guess no, based on the Clinton experience.



10:47pm:

NBC: Williams asks Clinton how she felt sitting there -- what a LaME softball question. He grilled Romney like a burger over coals, and suddenly goes soft on Hillary.

Hillary tosses around platitudes about closing the book on Bush.

Williams asks about one-party rule and worries about that.

Hillary references 1993 -- says they had to repair the damage then and now (what a load of bull). More crap about gridlock. Americans yearning for decisions.

Williams asks about Palin: Hillary gives the same answer as Obama did. Avoids ripping Sarah. Says Obama-Biden ticket -- "No comparison."

Brings up 401k, jobs ... offering Obama as the answer, the savior, the messiah, 'da man, etc., etc..

Williams thanks Hillary and subliminally promises to vote for her in two years.


ABC: Stepanopolous says McCain rallied Republican voters. Torie Clark Rep Analyst says Obama ground game is too strong. Stepanopolous says Obama's money is too much for McCain.

I thought rich politicians were EVIL. I always heard how Republicans had more money in the 1980's and 1990's and how EVIL they were for spending more than the poor Democrats.

George Will -- "Too late!" I agree that McCain should have been against the bailout bill. Debates are bad occasions to change campaign.

Stepanopoulos defends McCain's decision b/c McCain would have been blamed for bringing bill down and economy down.

Donna Brazile -- do Democrats really think she helps their cause? She's so clearly partisan it's ridiculous!

Looks like the network anchors are waiting for the polling data -- they're not willing to call the debate one way or the other without the polls.



10:31pm:
Charlie Gibson: "Third time's the charm."

Brokaw: "They turned their backs on each other."

Both talked about Joe the Plumber -- Brokaw declared Joe the winner.

Brokaw: McCain MOCKED Obama.

Sawyer: McCain had a "Battlecry." Obama stuck to issues.

Gibson: McCain failed to make contrast on experience at end.

Stepanapolous: Tactical error bringing up Bill Ayers. Mistake in the debate. (So far, the MSM has not repudiated what McCain said).

Gibson: McCain got ANGRY about John Lewis. Took it PERSONAL. EVIL.

Sawyer: DEFENDS (!) Obama ripping McCain for "Hurt feelings." WOW.

If I get compared to a segregationist ... I'd have to be DEAD to not show passionate disagreements!

Couric: Asking her focus group about McCain taking the gloves off.

CBS shows clip of Obama punting foreign policy to Biden and Luger. McCain talking about Acorn and Ayers. "Facts are facts. Records are records."

Couric asking if this is important? One brother saying Obama didn't look presidential in his response. Brother leaning towards McCain.

White dude with glasses was impressed with McCain, cutting subsidies for Ethanol.


NBC focus group: 4 ind, 1 dem, 1 rep.

1 person thought McCain stronger on Economy; 3 thought Obama stronger on Economy. 2 undecided.


ABC: Playing "I'm not President Bush." Stepanopoulos RIPS McCain for not using it in the first debate. WHO CARES? Stepanopoulos is upset that he said it!

ABC Fact Check: McCain said Joe's last name wrong. William Ayers living room -- campaign was not launched out of living room, but "There were several coffees held that summer. One was held at William Ayers." DAMN. IT'S TRUE.

Obama had more associations with Acorn than he admited to in debate.

I think the MSM will get the facts out tonight, and then cover it up over the next three weeks ... apologize for Obama the way only a sick loyalist can.


NBC: Mitt Romney interviewed by Brian Williams.

Williams pitching that Virginia is going for Obama and 19 days left.

Romney predicting bounce, and turnaround.

NBC panel -- three out of six people switched to McCain!

Romney -- Obama having to explain abortion, spending on campaign ... game-changer for McCain.

William -- battle for soul of McCain?

Romney -- no. Ebb and flow of campaign. He brings it back to McCain positively. Rips Obama for being in extreme wing of Democrat party. Brings up Robin Hood Obama. Brings up Vouchers. Obama -- "Smooth. Quick. But left wanting. Out of the mainstream."



10:27pm:
McCain calls discussion with Obama "Healthy." Yeah, right. Poison is more like it.

Blah, blah, blah. Trying to look into that camera. At least he's making the effort, but he keeps tripping over words. He's going for the win, entering an uncomfortable space.

Long line of McCains ... sheesh. Nobody wants to hear about that, after Bush Sr. and Jr.

Obama thanks McCain and Bob both for moderating. Obama successfully debated himself and won.

Same failed politics line ... change line ...

Whoa -- I didn't invite you. You're on my TV. Let's keep this relationship platonic, buddy.

Economy of future. Lifting wages, as opposed to weights.

Bringing weights to White House ... something like that....

Convinced we can do it (pump us up) ... tirelessly ...

Scheffer -- "Go vote now. It'll make you feel big and strong."

Great job moderating.

And now ... the pun'dits!



10:23pm:
McCain rips Obama for not paying attention to D.C. voucher system.

McCain wants to reform stuff, and rips Democrats for defending programs that don't work.

McCain promises to cure Autism -- damn. He's going for that Messianic Hope vote. Good for him.

McCain -- vouchers are proven system. Yay!

Obama -- uh, oh. He's about to rip vouchers. D.C. school system sucks. G. loves McCain's smile when disagreeing with Obama. Rips McCains plan.

McCain rips Obama, "Because we don't have enough vouchers, even though it's working, we shouldn't use it? I got it." McCain seems more relaxed.


10:15pm: Scheffer asks question about education. Spend more than everybody and trail most countries. What do they intend to do about it?

Obama -- hire William Ayers. Just kidding. Hahaha.

Need more money (?). Invest (?). Huge benefits (?).

Army of new teachers, with General Ayers leading them into battle. Just kidding. Bwahaha.

People take on debt to go into college? Gee, what a shock.

$4,000 tuition credit, in exchange for service. Well, that covers a semester or two, barely. I guess Obama wants to give people another option besides the National Guard.

McCain -- believes in choice and competition for schools. I agree. Charter Schools, vouchers ... enough politics on this subject already. Give parents choice!

"Throwing money at the problem is not the answer." G. just said, "Sure it is. Throw some money this way!" She was kidding. Hahaha.

McCain offering student loan program that already exists. Yikes.

Obama -- Tradition of multiple something or other in schools. Local schools? What did he say?

"Bush left the money behind for No Child Left Behind." I guess that's how the Dems get around the Kennedy connection to that program.

Obama agrees with McCain about Charter Schools. Yay! When he gets elected, I can at least know my kids will have options.

Disagrees with McCain on vouchers. Boo! Oh, well. The voucher system would probably be too complicated anyway.

Rips McCain for calling kids "Interest groups." Ouch. Another great zinger by Obama.




10:06pm:
McCain opposes litmus test. LaME answer. Using doublespeak. Loser argument.

Obama agrees with McCain about litmus test -- I guess since McCain was LaME first, it doesn't hurt to follow him down the LaME road!

"Fairness and justice." Amen, brother. Justice!

A women named Louie Ledbetter -- was that a Pearl Jam song? Supreme Court was EVIL in this case, according to the big O. Woman treated unFAIRly. Justice!

McCain -- now we're changing the culture of America? Who wouldn't show compassion to a woman?

McCain attacks Obama on abortions -- Obama is EVIL late-term abortionist. Voted present -- classic LaME move.

Obama responds -- "It's not true." Stammers. Voted against some law that was already on the books.

Obama supports ban on late-term abortions as long as there is an exception for the mother's life. That's why he voted Present!

HE ACKNOWLEDGED THAT HE VOTED PRESENT! WOW. Great Political Geek Theater.

Work against unintended pregnancy, options for adoption ... for the first time in Democratic platform? "No one is pro-abortion." WOW. BULLS###. That's pure, unadulterated, 100%, grade-A bulls###.



10:05pm:

U.S. Chamber of Commerce calls McCain's Insurance plan EVIL. Another Obama Zinger, "Even for you, John."



9:59pm:
McCain -- supports physical fitness for kids and employees. Maybe Arnold can go back to being the Health Czar.

Joe the Plumber is back! I wish Joe the Scanner was being referred to.

Gary Allen -- very funny twitter comments! LOL

Obama -- "Zero."

McCain -- "Zero?"

Obama brushes off McCain like a piece of dandruff of his shoulder and talks directly to Joe the Plumber again.

I no longer understand what he's talking about while typing ... which imitates the attention rate of the average American.

Just heard something about a 50% credit. 50% of what? Is it more than $5,000?

Millions of people lose employer-based coverage because of EVIL JOHN MCCAIN.

Average policy = $12,000.

Obama is ripping McCain up like a piece of JP Deskjet Off-white 90 weight paper.

McCain -- "Joe -- congratulations! You're rich!" Rips Obama for wanting to pull a Robin Hood and spread his "wealth" around like butter scraped on bread.

McCain adopts the 95% number!

Gary Allen -- he didn't even talk to that voter -- Obama did!

Pulled away from debate temporarily.




9:56pm:

Expand healthcare AND lower costs? Sorry, Obama -- any person who works for a living KNOWS you can't do both.

Obama sounds like a Tashman executive, demanding low error rates AND high productivity.

Cut premium by $2,500 per year -- HOW?!?

Prices will go down b/c of the larger pool of people. Sorry -- it's pie in the sky. If THAT was true, then insurance companies would GLADLY insure homes in Florida against flood and wind damage. INSTEAD, they run for the hills and pull out of the state, leaving citizens with Citizens, the state-run insurance company.



9:55pm: Hugo Chavez = EVIL

That should score well in Hialeah for McCain.

Restrict trade, raise taxes. Last President who tried that was Hoover -- OBVIOUSLY, McCain is a reader of the DailySkew blog comments!



9:46pm: Scheffer referencing Nixon and importing oil. Asks for specific number to reduce oil imports.

McCain -- eliminate Middle Eastern and Venezuelan oil. Rips Obama for wanting to renegotiate NAFTA due to Canadian reaction (good political geek point, but does the common man care).

McCain believes in Nuclear and Clean Coal tech for the heartland -- "Easily" eliminate dependence.

Obama -- "In ten years," can "Reduce" dependence. "Realistic timeframe."

"Nothing's more important" ... everything is a final-double-sized-issue CRISIS with this guy.

Rips oil companies for not drilling in lands with no oil ... yet again. Boring.

More crap about how EVIL we are for using 25% of the world's oil.

References Henry Ford.

Obama talks about NAFTA. Believes in free trade. Rips NAFTA. Good luck negotiating that with Canada and Mexico, Mr. Sim City.

"That's all good." Need free trade with South Korea.

McCain -- pay attention to Obama's words. "Look at." Score it. Two points. Hit that doublespeak!

Rips Clinton for some free trade. That reminds me, NAFTA was signed by Clinton!

Obama opposed Columbia Free Trade ... and, therefore, opposes stopping the flow of drugs. I love the leaps of logic. Rips Obama for not visiting Columbia.

Obama -- "Actually, I understand it pretty well." Damn, he's adroit at rebounding. Wants unions in Columbia. Supports Peruvian Free Trade ... I think people are going, "What? Who?" right about now. I've never heard of either of these trade agreements.

Bounces back to Automakers -- I guess this free trade stuff is not his strong suit.

Obama announces himself as the new CEO of GM; they WILL ... make hybrid cars with wind turbines and solar panels to be the driver of the economey ... or something like that.



9:44pm: Obama punts on the direct question from Scheffer. Applauds her special needs advocacy. Obama attempts to steal special needs advocacy -- says McCain's freeze will kill autistic babies (something like that).

McCain -- Biden had cockamamy (spellcheck that) idea about dividing up Iraq. Interesting -- I didn't know Biden agreed with Michael Savage. Strange bedfellows.

Brings up raising taxes by Obama again, a tried and true strategy.



9:42pm: McCain tells us that Palin is a reformer. Goes down the talking points, telling the story of Palin.

Brings up special needs families.

I wonder who is embarrassed more -- Republicans or Democrats.

Palin's hubby is tough guy ... okay.



9:40pm: Obama telling us how great Biden's foreign policy is.

Crime bill ... fighting for working families ... Biden and Obama share core values (whatever that means).

Reprioritize ... invest in American people ... give tax cuts to teeny-tiny smaller than Tashman Tech businesses ... make College affordable so William Ayers can fill their minds with tales of Pentagon bombings.



9:31pm: Obama FINALLY brings up Congressman Lewis -- public reports of people shouting terrorists and kill him. Congressman Lewis' point was we need to be careful.

McCain laughs and says, "You gotta read what he said."

Obama -- we put out statement saying we don't think that comparison with Civil Rights is appropriate, and Lewis agrees.

Americans cynical over the tit for tat. They want politicians to focus.

McCain -- clearly frustrated. "Sure." LOL

McCain, "Categorically, I'm proud of the people who come to our rallies." Defending his people. Dedicated, patriotic people. One person yelled at his rally doesn't represent the entire people.

McCain brings up people yelling at Obama rallies, and brings up the t-shirt! But ... he didn't go into details. Damn.

Obama -- stammering. Sheffer asks him if he takes issue. The t-shirt thing got to him. Is it a point for McCain?

Obama -- comes back to issues. Talks about Dems, Reps, and Inds coming together. "Can't characterize each other as bad people."

McCain -- brings up relationship with Acorn (Obama smiles as McCain describes voter fraud), "Old washed up terrorist" ....

Obama -- allegations ... "Mr. Ayers" ... Bill Ayers is a professor ... 40 years ago, when he was 8 ... blah, blah, blah, heard this before. Here we go with the friend of Ronald Reagan and republicans.

Does not deny that he knows Ayers. Good. He dare not lie in front of the whole country.

Acorn -- scandal had nothing to do with Obama. Represented Acorn to make Illinois create Motor Voter law.

Lie -- the video on YouTube is everywhere where he talks to Acorn last year.

Foreign policy -- he punts to Dick Luger and Biden. So ... he's going to have a Republican on his cabinet?

McCain -- brings up launching campaign in Ayers living room. I'm glad this is finally coming out on the national stage -- if it's not true, let's see how the MSM rips McCain.

Obama already chatting during McCain's rant. Sheffer ends it. McCain got the last word. Wow.

I'm not sold this whole thing is a winning argument -- see Bill Clinton if you don't believe me.



9:30pm: McCain -- every other ad was an attack on health care. Ads misportray positions on stem cell research and other issues.

Obama spending unprecedented amounts of money on this campaign -- those rich liberals from around the world are coming through for him.



9:27pm: Obama -- Campaigns are like this. Polls show that people feel McCain is being more negative. 100% of McCains are negative.

No one cares about hurt feelings, according to Obama. WHAT AN A$$HOLE. McCain apologizes and gets ripped for angry audience members. Obama lets his surrogates do the LaME attacking and gets off Scott Free in the MSM.

Obama wants to see the subject change. Politics as usual not changing things.



9:24pm: Negative campaigning. Scheffer is being fair and balanced.

Great question, asking them to say it to each other's face!

McCain -- "Tough campaign." Blames Obama for not doing townhall meetings. Tone could have been different. Regrets negative aspects. Unacceptable turns. Attacks Obama for not repudiating remarks by Congressman John Lewis -- it's political geek stuff, but he summarized it.

McCain states he repudiates when someone steps out of bounds (it's true. It's true).

McCain -- Obama lied about receiving public spending. "Highest spending since Watergate."



9:22pm: Obama supported Tort Reform, Charter Schools, Clean Coal reform -- Good stuff.

Obama takes a shot at Fox News.

Obama attacks McCain for being a supporter of Bush. Admits that McCain for being independent on some issues like torture. Says the last 8 years have not worked.

McCain -- very clear he's disagreed with Bush. Climate change. Earmarks. Iraq. Torture. Medicare importation prescription drugs ... rattling off lists is a bad move.



9:20pm: "I am not President Bush ... if you wanted to run against him, you should've run four years ago." THANK YOU.

References liberal mayor Bloomberg and HIS spending freezes. Good reference.

Obama voted for higher spending.

Goodies -- I hate that cutesy word. It's a loser.

McCain challenging Obama directly. Good stuff.



9:10pm: Obama DEFENDS earmarks by saying it's a small part of the budget. SO WHAT?!? Since it's so SMALL, we can get rid of it, right? Hello?

Here we go with the Bush surplus bull@@@@ again. Hey, a$$hole, did you hear about 9/11? War? What a jerk. Bush worked with Kennedy -- blame Kennedy!

Will McCain please attack?


9:16pm: McCain discusses Depression-era Home Ownership Program. References Senator Clinton.

McCain will cut? Starts talking about energy independence (another winning argument) to create jobs.

Cross the board spending freeze (I don't know why this argument is not a winner -- it makes sense to me to hold freezing at 2009 levels).

Opposes subsidies of Ethanol (That HAS to be a winning argument for people -- we all saw how the price of groceries were affected by ethanol fuels!).

Cut out all the pork, including the projector for the Planetarium -- the one that NPR spent a segment on this week defending on behalf of Obama.


9:14pm: Bob Scheffer is a great moderator.

Taxpayers will get money back ... we've been living beyond our means.

Scheffer brings Obama back. Obama starts talking about pay as you go. Need to eliminate medicare subsidies -- "It's a give away." Seniors just fell over.

Economic problem a "Slump."


9:11pm: McCain brings up Obama's Robin Hood comment to Joe the Plumber ("Spread the wealth around").

Why increase any taxes? This has always been a winning Republican argument.

Obama -- 95% of Americans will get tax cut. Will McCain question this 95% stat? Or will he stick to Joe the Plumber?

Ordinary families can't afford food. Need a break.

Obama would prefer not to pay taxes -- but have to pay.

McCain -- let's not raise taxes. Business tax rates 2nd highest in the world. Cut business tax to keep businesses here. Trickle down or truth?



9:08pm: Obama zinger. His smooth delivery after that stammering display is a clear winner.

Exxon/Mobil = EVIL

Homer Simpson is nodding while chomping his donut, saying, "Evil."

Joe the Plumber -- wants to help young entrepeneur now.

"98% of small businesses make less than $250,000." Is that gross or net?


9:07pm: McCain brings up the plumber. Political geeks know this story already.

Speaking to Joe directly -- McCain FINALLY looks into the camera. Stuttering ... not comfortable.

"Joe the plumber."


9:05pm: Obama -- looking into the camera again. Looking presidential. Who cares what he says. He wins the American Idol version of the Presidential Election.

End tax breaks ... give tax credits for companies hiring in U.S.

End penalties for early withdrawal of IRA -- this is a WINNING pitch. People are drawing money out of their retirement.

Fix education (damn. Every Presidential candidate says this).

9:04pm: McCain, talking about greed again. Pitching his $300 billion plan. Gives logical explanation -- important to keep property values up.

McCain vs. Obama Debate II Coverage

10:42pm:

DrudgeReport headline: BORING

I think Obama won the day when he gave that heartfelt answer about his mother dying with cancer in a hospital, unable to get insurance coverage. EVERYONE relates directly or indirectly to that. He seemed very AMERICAN when he was describing that issue.

I respect McCain, and I would prefer his military leadership over the next four years. If Obama has any wisdom, he will appoint McCain as Secretary of Defense.



10:36pm:
Stepanopoulos declares Obama the winner.

Michelle has gained some weight on the hips. I'm just sayin'. Don't wear red.

Andrea Mitchell -- rips McCain for $300 billion proposal to buy up mortgages. Gutsy, but "Too many headwinds." Big disagreements between two candidates. Neither candidate saying what they're willing to cut (Uh, Andrea, McCain talked about freezing spending -- something governments NEVER do!).

McCain was ripped on internet for assuming Oliver had never heard of Fannie and Freddie. That's interesting.


10:33pm:

Brokaw rips McCain for blocking the teleprompter.

McCain did great.

Obama is still in the lead with the people. He is the populist's champ. Obama hit ALL the right notes, even if he didn't explain everything logically.

The populist's champ will win this election.



10:29pm:

LaME throw-away question at the end to allow candidates to talk.

Obama: America gave him opportunity. Modest upbringing. Scholarships. Food Stamps. Despite all that, went to Ivy League school and got rich.

Can we pass on the dream of Food Stamps to the next generation? Bankruptcy ... kids don't have money to go to college ... need fundamental change from past 8 years. Hopeful that people want to continue America, but nerve to change. Okay....


McCain: We don't know what will happen at home and abroad. GREAT ANSWER to lame-o question. McCain loves this format.

We don't know unexpected.

Grew up with father out at sea in military, raised by mother. Knows dark times. Keep hope through difficult times. To rely on others for support and love. Knows when neighbors pick you up.

Believes in America, and future. Great honor to serve it. Asking American people for another opportunity. "Need steady hand at the tiller."

People are asking: What's a tiller?



10:24pm:

McCain: Thanks the questioner directly -- it's a military thang.

U.N. security council -- Russia and China would probably be against protecting Israel.

Iran a threat to Middle East if they get nukes.

What would Israel do? WWID?

Rips Obama for wanting to negotiate without preconditions.

McCain wants to put tough sanctions to modify Iran's behavior. "League of Democracies." Sounds great, like a comic book.

"We can never allow a second Holocaust to take place." 'NUFF SAID.

Obama: Cannot allow Iran to get a nuclear weapon. Unacceptable.

Cannot provide veto power to U.N. ... but we must PREVENT this scenario. Work more effectively with other countries to tighten sanctions on Iran. Become more energy independent. Prevent Iran from importing gasoline.

Obama believes in direct talks to deliver tough message. "It may not work," but has better chance at better outcomes. North Korea and Iran have ramped up since Bush took office (I guess North Korea getting nuclear power in the 1990's doesn't count).



10:18pm:

McCain: Russia's behavior out of the norm. Uses "K-G-B" line AGAIN. Boring. People don't care.

Show moral support for Georgia and Ukraine -- people don't know what these countries are. People are tuning out.

Use leverage, united with allies, to calm down Russia. No more Cold War!

Obama: Resurgence of Russia -- ANOTHER central issue (is there an issue that's not important to Obama).

Provide support to Soviet Satellites -- people are looking to the skies and wondering what he's talking about.

Putin -- nobody cares.

"Back in April, I put out a statement," DID ANYONE READ THIS STATEMENT? WHAT STATEMENT? I guess he has to prove his judgment by pointing to a statement from six months ago?

Apparently Obama has read the Woodward book.

Something about petro-dollars and weakening Russia.

Obama: Russia has engaged in evil behavior.

McCain: "Maybe." Depends....



10:16pm:

Obama: Iraqi gov't must take responsibility. Withdraw troops. Put some troops in Afghanistan (well, Obama, you'll be happy to know that Iraq wants us out by 2011).

Work with Karzai gov't (the puppet, according to Bob Woodward).

McCain: General Petraus will save us in Iraq and Afghanistan. Double army in Afghan. Streamline NATO. Must have same strategy -- rips Obama about surge again.

Believe in General Petraus -- elect General Petraus today! King Petraus!


10:08pm:

Obama: rips Bush and Co. for going into Iraq and letting Usama escape. Afghanistan is "Central front of terrorism." Must end war in Iraq (easier said than done.).

Rips Bush for coddling Musharref. The populist champ.

Expand friendship with Pakistan, and insisting on more room to operate in their country. Crush Al Qaeda, kill Bin Laden.

McCain: Hero is Teddy Roosevelt. "Talk softly." Rips Obama for talking loudly. Agreed.

Announcing an attack turns public opinion in Pakistan against the U.S. Agreed.

Taliban is back. It's official.

Relations with Pakistan is critical, due to borders.

Praises General Petraus strategy.

McCain visited rough country over there. Use force, work with Pakistan.

Subtle points.

Obama demands follow-up. McCain demands fairness. Brokaw is "Hired help."

Obama: Nobody said we're invading Pakistan. We should be willing to go after Usama. UH, doesn't that require invading Pakistan.

Rips McCain for singing Bomb Iran. McCain doesn't speak softly, either.

U.S. popularity in Pakistan declined b/c we supported Musharref. Policies will change if Obama is President.

McCain: supports military actions to get Usama. Joking with veteran about Iran.

Obama telgraphs punches. McCain states they have fundamental differences on military.



10:04pm:

Obama Doctrine: We have moral obligation. Holocaust, Rwanda. When genocide, ethnic cleansing happening and U.S. does nothing, that diminishes U.S.

Uh ... Iraq's people were getting killed by Saddam -- does that count? Sorry, Obama doesn't have consistency on this issue. This is baloney.

Ah -- "No fly zone." Clinton-style foreign policy. Bombs and no troops. Say good bye to Aspirin factories.


McCain Doctrine: First, he rips Obama for being against the surge. NOBODY CARES, MCCAIN. THE AMERICAN PEOPLE ARE SICK OF HEARING THIS.

Do whatever we can to prevent genocide. Has to be tempered with our ability to benefit the situation. Understand our abilities.

Brings up Somalia as an example -- that we had to leave. Lebanon.

McCain's argument makes sense to me ... I just don't think the public gives a damn about subtle military perspective.



9:58pm: McCain tries a Gotcha! moment in regards to the Obama Health Insurance fine.

"America greatest force of good in the history of the world." Amen. Peace-lovers. Peacemakers.

When to go to war? Only a person with judgment ... preventing genocide, preventing terrorism. U.S. doesn't always do it well, but we have good intentions.

Boasts track record. Rips Obama about surge and Russia/Georgia dispute. I wonder if people are hearing this or not.

Obama: He doesn't understand how we invaded a country that had nothing to do with 9/11. I guess he hasn't read Bob Woodward's book.

Iraq war -- wrong judgment. Since Obama wasn't in the Senate, he can say he was against it. MEANWHILE, he voted for that crazy bailout package....

Spending $10 billion a month, when Iraq has $79 billion surplus. We need it here -- the populist champ. Obama says!

Economic decline = military decline. Cannot act on Darfur genocide ... or Somali terrorists, for that matter.

Obama rips Bush.


9:55pm: McCain -- healthcare is a responsibility. Everyone understands that. Brings up fine that Obama is offering.

Obama -- healthcare should be a right. Wow. Communism. Brings up mother dying at age 53 and how she couldn't get coverage. Damn.

The populist champ. I think he just spoke to the desperate, the scared, the fed up, the tired, and locked in their vote.

Gov't intrusion and mandates -- Obama believes that it's important the gov't cracks down on companies that are cheating on their customers.

I think, folks, we've found a heartfelt emotional issue for Obama.

Brokaw begging Obama to shut up. "Senator...."



9:50pm: Healthcare as a commodity (huh? It's not oil or pork.) Obama focuses on what the people are talking about. Crushing burden for small business.

"Moral commitment."

What he will do: if you have healthcare, keep your plan. Gee, thanks. Will work with employer to reduce by "as much as" $2,500 a year. What is he, a salesperson?

If you don't have healthcare, buy Federal Employee healthcare.

Rips McCains $5,000 tax credit. Claims McCain will strip away coverage for pre-existing conditions (huh?). Would lead to unraveling of employer-based system. Good scare tactic. I'm nervous about McCain's plan now.

McCain: skyrocketing costs. Put healthcare records online (Google is working on that already). Community health clinics? Huh?

Rips Obama for talking about government. Says Obama will impose mandates on small business. Says Obama will fine you if you don't get healthcare -- sounds like car insurance, which I hate.

McCain offering the idea of crossing state lines. Sounds good ... but what about the unraveling of employer based coverage?

"Do the math!" 95% of people will have more money to coverage.

Cracks joke about himself and hair transplant. He needs to stop doing that. No need to be self-deprecating when you're opponent is attacking you.




9:47pm: Gov't researching Green energy a good idea, according to McCain.

References bills with "Goodies" that Obama voted for that Bush and Cheney sponsored.

"Bridge the gap" to reduce oil price. "We've got to drill offshore, my friends!" Amen.



9:42pm: Brokaw -- stay out of the debate.

Green jobs and environment question: McCain references tough times. Has disagreed strongly with Bush ... team-up with Joe Lieberman. McCain kept the debate going -- the danger of climate change.

Best way of fixing: Nuclear power. "Woo hoo!" Safe, clean, and creates jobs. "Excellent!"

Obama, posing for camera.

Hybrid cars. McCain: "We can do that! Best innovators!"

Obama: Big challenge, and opportunity. Create new economy ... 5 million new jobs ... talking the people's language. The populist champ.

He favors Nuclear power! As one component!

Obama rips McCain for being in Senate 26 years, and voting against Green stuff 23 times.

Obama: We have 3% of oil and use 25% of oil. Can't drill out of problem (T. Boone Pickens endorses this message).

Obama points at McCain when Brokaw reminds them about the time -- childish moment.





9:40pm: McCain -- not that tough to fix SSI. Got to sit down and work it out.

McCain -- not popular with his own party (that's a problem, buddy).

Medicare -- have a commission. Recommendations. Have Congress vote up or down on the recommendations. No lobbyists. Sounds good.

Rhetoric and record -- back with the "94 times" increasing taxes line on Obama.

"Look at our records ... listen to my vision for America."

McCain seems pumped up.


9:37pm: Obama, shot down by Brokaw. Let him talk! Let him talk!

Brokaw -- adding to the question!!! Wasting more time!!!

Obama -- "We have to take on entitlements quickly ... first term as President."

Can't take on SS or Medicare without understanding taxes.

"Straight-talk lost a wheel." HA HA.

Less than $250,000 -- taxes will not go up. Less than $200,000 -- taxes will go down. Okay ... how?

50% tax credit for businesses ... okay....

Ripping McCain for tax cuts ... for corporations that give jobs to the working people. "Whatevah." Sick of this populist pap.

Can deal with SSI and Medicare b/c ... how? I missed the leap in logic while typing.


9:33pm: Obama -- Washington needs to set better example for people on spending.

Earmarks "Only" $18 billion. Tax Cuts are more expensive (Uh ... if the government doesn't have the money....).

McCain: nailing Obama's policies is like nailing Jello to the wall. Good line.

Compares Obama to Hoover -- McCain's people must read the DailySkew.

Gabrielle notes Obama's expression of smiling and appearing eager to speak.

McCain tells Obama that the news is bad. Leave tax rates alone. Doubling child credit -- WOOOOoooooh! APPLAUSE!!!


9:28pm: Brokaw needs to chill out. Let the debate run four, five hours.

McCain: May have to eliminate spending. Cut defense spending. Eliminate earmarks. People need to understand, he says. Rips Obama again for Projector.

Recommends spending freeze again. Sounds good to me.

Transparency -- sounds good. Make me believe you, buddy.

"We're Americans." Patriotic theme continues.

Obama: Brings up 9/11. We came together. Missed opportunity -- Bush calling America to go out and shop. Excellent point.

How are we each going to use energy. Explore for oil. Brings up the 68 million acres (the acres with no oil?).

How can we save energy in our homes? Buy fuel-efficient, American-made cars. Weatherize home. Business more fuel efficient.

Young people interested in how to serve. Doubling peace corp. Volunteer corp. Military service. Renewing America. Requires leadership.


9:22pm: McCain -- can't keep providing retirement benefits. Track record of reaching across the aisle. "All of the above" line about energy. "We can overcome it."

Healthcare -- people struggling.

Can tackle all three issues at once.

Brokaw complaining about playing by the rules.

Obama: Prioritize. Energy. Bad for national security.

Wants to go line-by-line through Federal Budget.

Ripping McCain for $300 million tax cut. Yeah, tax cuts are evil. "Money out of the system." What's wrong with that?

9:19pm: Understands the cynacism ... brings up the Clinton surplusses (I GUESS 9/11 DIDN'T HAPPEN, OBAMA?!? GODDAMN).

"Biggest increases ... in history." You mean the ones where Bush worked with Ted Kennedy to pass No Child Left Behind, or gave the left Medicare reform? Why don't you thank Bush for passing your policies?

McCain: System broken. Rips Obama for spending on a $3 million projector.

9:17pm: Obama offering to save everybody ... maybe he'll give Mimic a check. McCain mentions he has a letter warning about the crisis ... "Obama's name is not on that letter."

Patriotic worker theme. "Innocent bystanders." Positive: "We can do it."


9:14pm: Calls McCain a deregulator. "Reregulate." Wrote letters to King Paulson. Defends himself on Fannie Mae -- McCain jumped on the bill and it never got passed. "Chairmen Sperm." "Pointing fingers."

Why didn't the bill get passed?

"The next President will have to pick a Treasury Secretary...." Did you know that King Paulson is leaving January 20th? HAHAHAAHAHAHAAHAHAAHAHAHAHAHA....

9:11pm: Oliver -- nice suit, buddy. Mentioning Fannie and Freddie ... "Chronies and friends." "Some of us stood up." He's not naming names ... he's naming parties. Ripping Obama directly for receiving money from Fannie and Freddie. Buy up bad loans and stabilize home values ... makes sense.

9:09pm: Warren Buffet is the one rich man that people aspire to be and do not hate. Wages have flat-lined ... harder to save, buy big screen TVs hahahahaahaha ... Agrees with McCain, but disagrees.

9:08pm: McCain naming names for Dept of Treasury ... ho-hum. Meg Whitman? Oh - E-Bay? Hahahaahahahahahaaa.

9:06pm: McCain talking energy independence, keeping taxes low. Speaking to retirees ... offering to buy up home mortgages and offer lower payments. Talking to the people. Stabilize home prices. Makes sense to me.

9:05pm: Obama talking to the people -- offering real solutions. Firing corporate execs always sounds good!

9:04pm: I don't feel like I'm in a great depression. Keep your scare tactics to yourself. Cliche Bush ripping.

9:02pm: Here we go ... Tom Brokaw moderating....

McCain vs. Obama Debate Coverage

Post Debate Reaction:
Damian: tie.


Stephanopolous - Obama wins on strategy, style, and overall.
McCain wins on accuracy.
He noticed that Obama appeared darker than he does in person, which agrees with what Vahl noticed. He also said McCain looked washed out.


Early polls - Obama wins by double digits.


Vahl: I am leaning towards McCain. He had specific plans to freeze spending, keep taxes low for me, take care of vets, and achieve foreign policy success. I'd rather have a Vice-Pres in training than a Pres in training.
When Obama talked about his Senate experience, it reminded me of when you write a resume and try to make your work history sound like more than what it was.



CBS - tie


CNN - tie


David Brooks - tie.



Vahl Debate Coverage -- due to an emergency situation, Vahl had to text message in his comments, and was not able to watch the debate in its entirety:


Obama closing statement - excellent. Presidential.


McCain attacks Obama's judgment, compares his stubbornness to Bush!


This Bin Laden line didn't work for Kerry.
Good comment about China by Obama.

Broader vision.



McCain - cannot lose in Iraq.


Obama - long way to go. Suitcase nuke threat. Supports Star Wars. Focus on Al-Qaeda in Pakistan. Regain respect. Compliments McCain.


McCain supported 9/11 commission. Against torture.


McCain is good at talking over people.


Obama supports foresight. Plan for energy. Attacks McCain on energy.


Overall, Obama appears to be taking a tough stand on every foreign policy issue. McCain appears to have a command of the details, and sounds more realistic.


Missed a lot.


Obama has a bracelet, too.


McCain mentioned Somalia. I did not understand what he meant.
He grasps the gravity of war.



Obama's got some good zingers, but his Pakistani policy sounds pie-in-the-sky.


Obama - tough decisions ... Nothing specific.
McCain - let family decide. No national healthcare.
Leaving debate coverage.


McCain - spending freeze.
Obama - scalpel line good.
McCain - nuclear power plants.


Obama - eliminate private ins for medicare. Bush zinger. Accountability.


McCain's got jokes. Eliminate ethanol subsidies. Fixed cost funding. He's giving me the how.


How is Obama fixing healthcare, education? HOW?


McCain giving Obama the Romney treatment.


How will Obama save my taxes? I was called away.


McCain talking common sense on business tax ... Attacking ... Doubled child tax credit? Right on!


Obama rebutts ... He fixed healthcare? I missed that issue.


McCain taking shots at Obama on earmarks.


Platitudes ... Talking points.


Mcain looking at moderator. Seems relaxed. Cracks joke about age.


Sheesh - Obama's eyes look menacing on this hospital T.V. screen.



Obama looks confident. Kennedy-esque.

9:03pm: Watching PBS Coverage.


12:10pm: Rush claims Obama screwed up the White House meeting. Very interesting story. Let's see if McCain brings it up tonight.


6:19am: Overnight news indicates Obama won the White House meeting:

Both McCain and his Democratic rival, Sen. Barack Obama, would leave the White
House without comment, and the meeting was described as among the wildest in
memory. A beleaguered President Bush had to struggle to maintain order and
reassert himself. And when Democrats left to caucus in the Roosevelt Room,
Paulson pursued them, begging that they not “blow up” the legislation.

The former Goldman Sachs CEO even went down on one knee as if genuflecting, to which Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Cal.) is said to have joked, “I didn’t know you were Catholic.”

It was McCain who had urged Bush to call the White House meeting but Democrats made sure Obama had a prominent part. And much as they complained later of being blindsided, the whole event turned out to be something of an ambush on their part—aimed at McCain and House Republicans.

“Speaking professionally,” said one Republican aide, “They did a very good job.”

When Bush yielded early to Pelosi and Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D- Nev.) to speak, they yielded to Obama to speak for the assembled Democrats. And it was Obama who raised the subject of the conservative alternative and pressed Paulson on what he thought of the idea.

House Republicans felt trapped—squeezed by Treasury, House Democrats and a bipartisan coalition in the Senate. And while McCain spoke surprisingly little after asking for the meeting, he conceded that it appeared there were not the votes for the
core Paulson plan without major changes.

09/25/2008:
6:09PM: Pre-fight weigh-in:





5:00PM TONY VAHL:
Obama and McCain have entered the White House.
Photos destined for history books being taken.
Longest Presidential debate continues.




3:54PM DAMIAN HOSPITAL SAYS: Friday night...8:00PM...LIVE FROM MISSISSIPPI..it's the first debate between Obama and McCain! Tune in, folks, this is gonna be a war!

2:31PM:
It now appears both candidates are losing the debate.



12:33PM:
Rush Limbaugh: Paulson asked for McCain to return.
McCain move is a gimmick, Obama can't vote present,
Clinton "dropping neutron bombs" on Obama.



12:01PM: Obama: "Call me if you need me." Loki.
Dr. Hoffman, Enneagram Council:
Obama has officially integrated the unhealthy aspects of Enneagram type 5
- sidestepping, misdirecting, taunting McCain rather than taking a stand.



11:45AM: McCain is boxed into a corner, with no way out.
Will the Silent Majority stand up for him and his courage?



10:02AM: CNN Was Obama blindsided by McCain announcement?

9:34AM: Glenn Beck ripping Bush for not taking crisis seriously enough!
"Great depression ... McCain will lose ... Get blamed."



5:34am -- From DrudgeReport/Reuters -- Obama backs off McCain, agrees to bipartisan statement:

WASHINGTON, Sept 25 (Reuters) - Congress looked close to reaching a deal to approve a $700 billion plan to bail out the U.S. financial system ...

... After a week of pointed barbs on the campaign trail, McCain and Obama later took the unusual step of issuing a joint statement, calling Bush's plan "flawed" but urging fellow Republicans and Democrats to reach a solution.

"No matter how this began, we all have a responsibility to work through it and restore confidence in our economy. The jobs, savings and prosperity of the American people are at stake," the candidates' statement said.

"This is a time to rise above politics for the good of the country. We cannot risk an economic catastrophe."

9/24/2008:
9:15pm -- Vahl: "Is this serious enough to reschedule a foreign policy debate on Friday? Answer: Yes."

The debate now appears to be even, going into the overnight hours.



9:14pm -- ABC reaction -- "Stark terms ... $700 billion ... bad debt ... 'gov't the only one with patience and resources' ... tough case ... skepticism ... 'Terrible plan ... haven't heard any better' ... rescue plan needs to be passed quickly."




9:13pm -- "Elected officials rise to the occasion ... leaders come together to meet great tests."



9:12pm -- King Paulson offers blueprint to solve problem. "Democratic capitalism is the best system ever devised ... moment of great challenge ... will overcome this one."



9:11pm -- "Financial securities ... families ... small businesses ... Money Market insured ... FDIC has been in existence for 75 years ... update regulatory structures ... outdated 20th century laws."



9:10pm -- The price tag -- $700 billion. Obama perks up. "Low prices ... money flows back to Treasury ... investment will be paid back."



9:09pm -- "Rescue plan ... resume flow of credit ... failed executives ... bi-partisan board ... as soon as possible." Strong sales pitch by Bush.



9:08pm -- "Spirit of cooperation." Obama is reeling. McCain trying to stand up.



9:06pm -- Bush has never sounded clearer or more cogent. This is clearly his element.



9:05pm -- "Domino effect." Vahl's prophecy revealed to be true.



9:04pm -- Bush echoes Tony Vahl's words from two years ago. V for Vindication.



9:02pm -- Bush outlines how serious the situation is in America ... this affects the "Entire economy." Obama is struggling to get on his feet at the moment. McCain clings to the ropes, catching his breath.



8:46pm -- BREAKING NEWS: Obama Accepts Bush Invitation To Meet In Washington ... Bush jumps into the ring and knocks down Obama while McCain recovers in the corner!



7:41pm -- Talk Radio and candidates taking a break. Obama was barely touched, despite the best efforts of the Wallbanger and McCain. The Silent Majority remains Silent. G. has officially endorsed Vahl's opinion.



7:18pm -- Skew. Skew. Stop the scanner. More from U.S. News and World Report:

The McCain campaign official also appeared to leave some wiggle room for the
candidate to participate in the debate. "It could still happen," he said. "But
we won't know until we get our arms around this tomorrow." GOP strategists say,
however, that after calling for the debate to be postponed, it would be almost
impossible politically for McCain to change his position.

The Commission on Presidential Debates has notified the University of Mississippi, the location of the debate, that for now the debate will proceed as scheduled.

7:15pm -- It's 2008 -- a new era. McCain's stand is viewed as weakness ... in other news, down is up, and left is right. More from U.S. News and World Report:

One longtime GOP adviser who has been involved in past presidential campaigns and debates says that McCain's move will spin out one of two ways: If he goes back to Washington and is seen as a catalyst for a palatable solution to the crisis, it will be a "great way for McCain to stop his bleeding on the economy," the adviser said. "But it can also be seen as a transparent political ploy, when he could just as easily appear at the debate, insist the discussion be all about the economy, and talk this through with Obama." The adviser's prediction: It will play out as a political ploy.

7:11pm -- Obama officially pulls ahead, as McCain's teammates walk off the field. From U.S. News and World Report:

"I'm puzzled," said longtime McCain supporter Ed Rogers, chairman of BGR Holding, a lobbying firm formerly known as Barbour Griffith & Rogers. "I think we, us McCain people, we need the debate. Not having it just freezes the board, and the status of the game right now favors Obama."

"We don't need to quit the game," he said. "We need to change the game."

7:04pm -- Savage is currently winning, uh, the debate:

Savage: "Doctor, first do no harm ... the hyppocratic oath ... I'm not voting for this hack McCain ... I'm done ... I'll vote for local issues, but I'm not voting for the Republican machine ... I'm not voting for Obama.

"These guys crash the ship, and then they ask that they give us the wheel. We'll lock you in the brig, Johnson."

Vahl: "I thought McCain was going to take a hard line against the bailout ... he's just parroting Bush? What?"

6:11pm -- The debate has begun to swung in Obama's favor.

"Savage just called McCain a 'putz'," said Vahl. "His words carry weight with independents. This may be the bailout that Obama needed in this debate."

6:01pm -- as of right now, editorial staff at DailySkew.com has declared McCain in the lead.

"His decision to suspend his campaign and go to Washington shows true
leadership and courage," stated Tony Vahl. "He's risking his entire campaign ...
he's guaranteed to get openly mocked by his opponents ... he's basically become a
target for easy criticism by Obama and his supporters.

"The bottom line, for me, is this: the dominoes are falling. I
predicted this years ago, and we're now getting into the final pages of this
Financial Crisis, so to speak. McCain has chosen to go do what he does
best -- broker a bipartisan deal.

"Obama has also made a choice -- leaving the leadership to the members of
Congress, instead of showing some true leadership.

"David Letterman can take shots at McCain all night tonight, if he wants
... it doesn't matter. McCain clearly understands the serious of the
matter.

"This is a moment that will be remembered in history books, regardless of
the outcome (the financial crisis AND the election). Obama has, once
again, shown his poor judgment (Biden, J. Wright and his other friends from
Chicago, etc.) and missed an opportunity to show he's got what it takes.

"A debate on foreign policy tomorrow pales in comparison to what is about
to happen in Washington, D.C."

***

About this blog post: When John McCain announced he wanted to delay the debates, and Obama said no, I felt like the debates had started. Hence, this blog post.