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October 19, 2008
Barack Obama lines up a cabinet of stars as John McCain struggles on
The Democrat may recruit some big names, including Republicans, to see America through the crisis
With the economy on the brink of recession and the country in the midst of two foreign wars, Barack Obama is considering appointing a cabinet of stars to steer America through potentially its worst crisis since the Great Depression of the 1930s if he wins the presidency on November 4.
Obama has a well-regarded, close-knit team of domestic and foreign policy advisers who would follow him into the White House and key administration posts. But he is also being urged to make some high-profile appointments who would command the confidence of the country at such a troubled time.
“It’s important to send a signal,” an Obama adviser said. “With a comparatively new person in office and the awful mess we’re in, these appointments are going to resonate around the world.” Obama, 47, has been warning his supporters that the election is not over yet. “Don’t underestimate our ability to screw it up,” he said last week. But should Obama win, he will not be short of big names to choose for his administration.
A host of well-known figures, including some Republicans, have indicated they would be willing to serve in some capacity as Obama begins to acquire a winner’s glow. From Senator John Kerry, the 2004 presidential candidate with hopes of becoming secretary of state, to Larry Summers, a former US Treasury secretary under President Bill Clinton, and Chuck Hagel, the Republican senator who has been tipped as defence secretary, there are plenty who have signalled their availability.
Obama is thought likely to cherry-pick a few high-profile names, while rewarding the loyalty and discretion of advisers such as his foreign policy expert Susan Rice who have served him so well throughout the campaign.
“He has no patience whatsoever with prima donnas,” said one leading Democrat policy adviser. “He’s surrounded himself with people who are pretty smooth in dealing with each other.” All eyes were on Colin Powell, the former secretary of state under President George W Bush, to see if he would declare his support for Obama in an interview on Meet the Press, the flagship political television programme, today.
Powell is unlikely to return to the cabinet after the mauling he received over the Iraq war, but could serve as a special envoy abroad. He is regularly consulted by Obama on foreign policy and military matters, and said last year: “I always keep my eyes open and my ears open to requests for service.”
In last week’s debate against John McCain, his Republican opponent, Obama indicated that he would adopt a bipartisan approach to government, citing the Republican senator Richard Lugar, who worked with him on a bill to prevent nuclear weapons proliferation, and General Jim Jones, the former Nato commander, as figures he admired.
“Those are the people, Democrat and Republican, who have shaped my ideas and who will be surrounding me in the White House,” Obama said.
If the Democrats win sweeping majorities in the House of Representatives and the Senate as well as the White House, conservative voters could feel alienated from every branch of government. The McCain campaign is already playing up fears of a Democratic landslide to persuade Republicans and independents to back their man.
An editorial in The Wall Street Journal last week warned of a coming “liberal super-majority”. It is possible Democrats could win a filibuster-proof 60-seat majority in the Senate, enabling them to pass whatever legislation they wanted, from higher taxes to greater union rights.
“Though we doubt most Americans realise it, this would be one of the most profound political and ideological shifts in US history. Liberals would dominate the entire government in a way they haven’t since 1965 or 1933,” the newspaper commented.
William Galston, a former White House policy adviser under Bill Clinton, said: “I don’t think Obama is going to give Republicans much on substance, so he would be well advised to give them some satisfaction on personnel.”
Some leading supporters, such as Kerry, may end up disappointed, even though he launched the then unknown Illinois politician’s career at the 2004 Democratic national convention. “Frankly, how many senators do you want in the cabinet?” wondered one Obama adviser. If he wins the presidency, Obama has to beware of countering his message of “change” on the campaign stump by appointing too many Washington insiders.
Republicans hope the wall-to-wall coverage of the attack by the baldheaded Sam “Joe the plumber” Wurzelbacher on Obama’s plans to increase taxes for those earning more than $250,000 a year has halted the Democrat’s momentum. Some polls have tightened in favour of McCain, 72, but Obama retains an average lead of nearly seven points.
David Plouffe, Obama’s coolly efficient campaign manager, believes his candidate is disproportionately strong in former Republican strongholds such as Virginia and Colorado. This could give Obama enough electoral college votes to push him past the winner’s post, even if he loses the traditional battle-ground states of Florida and Ohio to McCain. The polls suggest that Obama leads by eight points in Virginia, a state that George W Bush won by the same margin in 2004.
In a show of confidence that rattled Republicans, Obama travelled on Friday to Roanoke on the edge of the Appalachian mountains in southwestern Virginia in search of the white, working-class voters who eluded him in the primary campaign against Hillary Clinton.
McCain, in contrast, was fighting a rearguard, defensive action in the northern tip of the state yesterday to shore up his support among the high-tech, white-collar, suburban voters who have been deserting his party.
The youth vote and black vote have been mobilised to an unprecedented degree by the Obama campaign, which has raised $454m – nearly double McCain’s $230m – enabling it to spend on saturation advertising and organisation in areas that were once thought to be unwinnable. It is expected to announce a record-breaking haul of more than $100m in September.
The Democratic voter registration effort has reached far and wide. Althea Patterson, 40, an African-American insurance worker from Roanoke, said: “I’ve got friends who went out and got their criminal records expunged so they could vote for Obama.” Former felons are barred from voting without a judge’s dispensation.
Senator Jim Webb, the Virginia Democrat and former marine who served as navy secretary in President Ronald Reagan’s administration, personally vouched for Obama’s integrity. “You can trust me and I trust him,” he told the rally in Roanoke. He cited the refrain from a country and western song to disparage McCain’s choice of Sarah Palin as a running mate: “I know what I was doing but what was I thinking?”
With little more than two weeks until polling day, some leading Republicans suspect McCain is doomed. Peter Wehner, a senior White House official under Bush, said: “The Obama campaign is terrific. They’ve got boatloads of money and they’re using it well. I don’t think the race is over, but I always thought Obama would win. I’m a realist and I can read the polls and the electoral map as well as the next guy.” A persistent question for Obama is how to make the most of Hillary Clinton’s talents in government after she has helped to swing women and blue-collar workers behind him. Last week the New York senator put her chances of running again for president at “probably close to zero”, leaving just a little wiggle room in case Obama loses in a fortnight’s time and there is a vacancy.
Clinton added: “There’s an old saying: bloom where you’re planted.” In the event of an Obama victory, she hopes to inherit the mantle of lion of the Senate from Edward Kennedy and steer universal healthcare legislation through Congress.
However, members of Obama’s inner circle believe she would be tempted to accept an offer to become health secretary, which would give her the historic opportunity to devise and implement the policy. “That’s very possible. Senator Clinton would be terrific as health secretary,” said Congressman Patrick Murphy, a leading Obama supporter.
Sorting out the economy is going to be the biggest test of Obama’s presidency. “He’s got to do something bold and a lot of it will be psychological,” one of his advisers said. One of the names in the frame for Treasury secretary is Paul Volcker, the chairman of the Federal Reserve under President Ronald Reagan, who brought inflation under control in the early 1980s.
Admirers admit his age is against him – Volcker is 81 – but suggest he could oversee a financial rescue package before passing on the baton. Glenn Hubbard, the former head of the Council of Economic Advisers under Bush, said: “I can’t think of anyone else with the same stature.”
Volcker endorsed Obama back in January when Clinton was still the Democratic front-runner. “He would provide the confidence necessary to stabilise the markets and put together an economic plan to get the country moving again,” an Obama adviser said. “This is the man who solved the last economic crisis.”
Another leading candidate for the Treasury is Summers, who has been guiding Obama through the Wall Street melt-down. Summers was forced to quit as president of Harvard University in 2006 after suggesting controversially that men had a greater aptitude for science and engineering than women.
At a conference at Harvard Business School last week, Summers defended Obama’s plans to tax the wealthy by pointing to the huge rise in inequality over the past 30 years between the earnings of the top 1% and bottom 80% of the country. “It is immense compared to any discussion of changing the tax system here or there,” he said.
Obama may also want to reward Caroline Kennedy, the daughter of President John F Kennedy, for overseeing his vice-presidential selection and bringing the coveted family name to his campaign. She has been variously tipped as ambassador to the United Nations, the Vatican and even Britain – her grandfather Joseph Kennedy was sent packing from the same job in 1940 after saying democracy was finished. However, she may wish to remain in America and build on her experience as an education reformer in New York.
As Obama ponders his choice of cabinet, he may recall that there is a precedent for appointing well-established “stars” to shore up a relatively inexperienced president. George W Bush brought the powerful triumvirate of Dick Cheney, Donald Rumsfeld and Powell into his cabinet – and all were heavily criticised for their performance.
Wehner has learnt from experience inside the White House that voters can soon tire of distinguished names if they are unhappy with the results. “There will be a lot of talk about bipartisanship and a honeymoon period, but that will disappear if the economy is stagnating or gets worse,” he said. “The public is very pragmatic and will make its judgment on results rather than optics. The acid test is how the country is doing.”
Candidates call truce for a night of jokes
For one night only, the candidates dropped their attacks and told jokes at
a glitzy dinner in Manhattan
John McCain poked fun at criticisms that his campaign is in disarray
“Yes, it’s true that this morning I dismissed my entire team of senior advisers. All of their positions will now be held by a man named ‘Joe the Plumber’.”
“Senator Obama is ready for any contingency – even the possibility of a sudden and dramatic market rebound. I’m told that at the first sign of recovery he will suspend his campaign and fly immediately to Washington to address this crisis.”
“Even in this room full of proud Manhattan Democrats I can’t shake that feeling that some people here are pulling for me . . . I’m delighted to see you here tonight, Hillary.”
Barack Obama mainly told self-deprecating jokes, but could not resist a jab at Hillary.
“Hillary Clinton is one of the toughest and most formidable presidential candidates in history. She’s broken barriers. She’s inspired millions. She is the primary reason I have all this grey in my hair now.”
“Contrary to the rumours . . . I was not born in a manger. I was actually born on Krypton and sent here . . . to save the planet Earth.”
As for his second name Hussein: “I got my middle name from somebody who obviously didn’t think I’d ever run for president.”
“There was a point in my life when I started palling around with a pretty ugly crowd . . . that’s right . . . I’ve been a member of the United States Senate. Come to think of it, John, I swear I saw you at one of our meetings.”
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Regarding Horatio in Brighton, it's easy for the USA to produce the usual gang of idiots. Free market health care excludes over 30 million people - about the same population as Canada. Bush claims he right to life, but won't assist low income women during pregnancy, so look wot happens.
Andrea, Banbury, UK
I find it interesting when I read "the race is tightening..." because Obama "maintains only a seven point lead in the polls." For anyone that Has an interest in the next president of the USA or it's system of government I urge you to search "Electoral College" on youtube, and visit www.270towin.com
Carl Allen, Louisville, Kentucky, USA
Retribution of wealth via taxes is absurd and illogical and does not any way solve financial iniquities in the long term. As smart as Obama is he should understand this, but apparently he does .not. The real long term redtribution of weath comes via education of our youth.
John Correia, Dallas, USA
Oh dear. Oh dear, oh dear, oh dear. Looks like many Americans don't understand what 'socialism' is. And a lot appear to think that free market, unregulated greed works! How can a nation so rich produce such idiots?
Horatio, Brighton, UK
One good thing to come from this election is that McCain has taught them 2 new words. Socialist and Marxist. It's just a shame neither apply to Obama.Nothing gets the republican base more excited and overwrought than those two words.Pavlov's dog couldn't do better. Obama a Marxist?Sheesh
dave watson, Canberra, Australia
Randy, Germany has a conservative (ie Republican) government. Not a socialist one.
Ross, lancaster, UK
To those people complaining about the tax for earning ~$250k, ...
boo hoo
Seriously, you guys earn the salary of 5 average people in the western world.
Get some realism into your lives.
Dan, Manchester, UK
In my country the majority sympathies Obama. May be because of McCain`s agressive tone against Russia. When he smiles he seems to extract it from his pocket, not sincere at all. His Palin makes poor impression, absolutely inexperienced in international affairs. We do not envy Americans in this case
Victor, Moscow,
Get used to it people. As of January 20, 2009 it will be PRESIDENT Obama. And frankly, I don't really care if he is bipartisian or not. Maybe now with adults in charge we can get back to the prosperity of the Clinton years when we had a surplus that Bush lost along with our reputation and strength
Edward, Lexington KY, USA
Denise,
If socialism is so great, why are European countries such as France and Germany, suffering unemployment rates of 10% or more. THIS MESS was not caused by capitalism, it was caused by the government interfering with the free market and forcing banks lend unwisely.
Randy, Loveland,
One party rule has never worked. Clinton and Gingrich, Reagan and O'Neill: there was balance, prosperity, and leadership. Jimmy Carter had a Democratic congress. Bush had a Republican congress. Both were disasters. Nothing against Barack, but one party rule scares me. That's why I'm voting McCain.
Robert, Portland, USA
Jacob, Tulsa.
How many countries has the US already ruined?
You need to study history, my friend.
lomas, Monza,
Gayle from Winter Park, the class structure of America isstronger than it is in Europe and tightly bound with acccess to education. Barack Obama was a top student at Harvard Law School. This is roughly analogous to being a peer in the UK, or in the Politburo, or a Senator in Rome.
Babak, los angeles,
I think the people from outside of the US should watch out, because Hussein has already said that he wants to "change the world." I hope you can live with an American president trying to change and ruin your country like he'll do to ours.
Jacob, Tulsa,
Denise: Do you not understand that it is impossible for "capitalism" to fail? It is merely a form of trade! What "failed" was the impossible burden of socialist "fairness" (free houses) that Reno, Cuomo, Raines, Frank, Dodd, and Clinton interjected into the financial houses obligations!
Manley , Portland OR, USA
Why is everyone for Obama? He has only 2 yrs of experience and we as a nation are ready to let him lead us?
I would not hire someone with so little experience for such a great job if he were coming to me to fill out an application and I don't believe anyone else would hire him either.
Gayle, Winter Park, U.S.
Obama holds dignity and self poise. He will not make rush decisions. He does not roll his eyes or smirk when someone else speaks. He is relaxed and self assured. A strong family man. His wife will make a very dignified First Lady. Please dont let McCain and his "trophy" bride represent USA.
Lori D, Fort Collins, USA
With all the voter fraud Acorn has engaged in on Obama's behalf, the question is this: even if Obama wins won't we always doubt if that win was legitimate?
Wesle Evans, Windham, USA
Obama is not a uniter. He has the most liberal voting record in the US Senate - when he decides to vote. No real Republican would be caught dead in an Obama cabinet. Those that would agree to join him are Republican in name only. Welcome to the United Socialist States of America.
Joe - not a plumber, Dallas, USSA
There is nothing bipartisan about this man. He is a leftist to his very core. Couple that with stunning lack of qualifications for this office and you have a prescription for disaster (disaster, that is if you are a self-reliant American. A windfall if you're already used to living off others)
Chris, Boston, USA
This article does not mention the fact that pulling Republicans from the Senate requires the governors of those states to institute elections for replacements. Democrats are clearly eying the supermajority. I don't think many people comprehend the severity of liberal control of all three branches.
Justin, Frankfort, KY,
Americans should be ashamed at the state of your healthcare. The richest Country in History could never take it's eyes off idealogy long enough to realize universal health care is not akin to Marxist Socialism. I'm Canadian,I go to the Doctor with a healthcard not a credit card !
Scott, London, Ontario
My job search may finally be over. If Obama gets elected, me and my pregnant wife will be able to live off other Americans! Of course we'll need to get divorced first so my child will be born out of wedlock.
RJ Scott, Dallas, Georgia, USA
If the Democrats have a full sweep life will be appallingly misreable! However, those that voted for Obama will deserve it those that did not will have to do everything they can to hold on until we vote them out in 2010 and 2012. Their joy will not last long!
Lisa, Warrenton, Virginia
Who cares if Obama is calling for a mild (yes, MILD) form of socialism? Capitalism clearly hasn't worked. Time for something new.
Denise, Houston TX,
People are overlooking the Obama lies about what he states is a fair increased tax on Small Business at $250,000. The SBA lists countless Small Business catagories as SMALL BUSINESS with larger amounts. In fact, about 98% of Small Businesses will be taxed by Obama. He makes it sound like less.
M. Hochstetter, Naperville, Il., USA
can one of our American friends explain to me what is about increasing tax rates on income over $250000 that will "screw" anyone?
Surely unless you have a serious coke or gambling habit even the largest of families can be brought up on far less than a quarter of a million dollars a year?
aaron, london,
This country that I dearly love, would cease to be any kind of power under an Obama presidency. Socialism is not the answer. Witness the Hawaii health coverage that failed miserably after 7 months. How can you tax small business and expect growth?
Sandy Benson, Garland, USA
Wait until all those young people who are voting Democratic get their salaries, social security, 401K's, retirement plans, inheritances, and capital gains receiving increased taxes in the future. Aslo, the Republicans can also get prominent bipartisan people as advisors. Was Colin Powell one?
M. Hochstetter, Naperville, Il., USA
The arrogance of this man is breathtaking! Thanks to the liberal, leftist press, this country is on the verge of becoming a socialist country, will be plunged into a deep recession because of his tax policies --all due to their unrelenting support for him. Disgusting!!.
Jennie Maroney, Framingham, United States
Wealth redistribution has already happened! The wealth of the nation is being transferred from the middle-class to the rich and the big oil guys. We are paying an exorbitant high "tax" every morning at the gas pump. Still, Mc Cain wants the big oil to honor their tax obligation even less!
Joe, Danville, U.S.A.
'Poor people have been voting for the Democrats for years and they're still poor'.
Prudence Eely Bond McGuire BA, LONDON, ENGLAND- UK
The nation wealth redistribution has already happened! The wealth of the middle-class has been transferring to the rich and big oil. We, the middle class, are paying an exorbitant high "tax" every morning at the gas pump. Still, McCain wants big oil to honor their tax obligation even less!
Joe N., Danville, U.S.A.
The thing that people are missing is that the rich tend to either save or spend on imports while the poor tend to spend on domestic products.
this is why there is interest in wealth redistribution - its called neo-Keynesianism.
Mike FW, Porth, United Kingdom
I think the American people have been taken on an expensive ride and debaucle, fuelled through Fox, ABC and CNN, and fooled into believing whatever these strangers tell them.
They are trying to get your vote, that is why they promise the world. Obama hires celebrities, Mccain tells war stories.
Alex, London,
At Big Joe, you make over 250K a year. How big can your problems be? Ultimately if Obama can turn around your (and our) economy, and believe me a significant part of that is in people who earn less than you, then ultimately won't your total assets and revenue increase in the long run.
Mike, Hong Kong, China
i can't believe people are worried about the tax rate you have to pay, we the people, the middle class, have been paying higher taxes. why didn't you step up and complain about our taxes being higher than yours? why shouldn't we ALL pay the same taxes rates! thats fair, and right. equal rights!
debby woodruff, melbourne, fl, USA
I love this Obama share the weath. The rich folks will just leave the country cause they got the money to do so. Then the middle class will move up to the upper class and we can redistribute that money. Poor folks become upper class and we can keep it all. We movin all up!! Catfish & Watermelon!
Kenny Hump, Canton GA, USA
The most important thing to keep in mind is that Obama's economic policies are designed to promote the well being of ordinary working people while McCains' economic policies are good for the haves and have mores and create even greater inequality. No wonder Wall Street loves McCain.
Roland Buck, Morehead, U.S.A.
Oh yes,... let's allow someone that has had less than 3 years experience in politics run our country further into the ground. It's about experience.......we know nothing really concrete about Obama except he should have Hilary as vp....cb, Kansas City
Car, KC, US
Hey Big Joe, I hear you loud and clear. My husband makes just over 250k a year, so we're screwed too. The kicker is: his job DEMANDS that he work 60-70 hours a week. We're planning some huge spending cuts as a form of protest, and I hope others do to. Tax the rich, and no soup for you!
Lynne Bowden, Bayport, USA
300 million people in this country and these two are the best we can get? God help the USA.
GQ, Coarsegold, CA, USA
Get over it !!!! Hillary is a smart women, but she didn't win and she still has the grace to move on. That is what you need. to do.Obama is someone that can move this country forward, and Colin Powell seen this in Obama. He knows McCain is an honorable man, but this isn't his time. We need Change.
Bev , Ravenswood, WV
Hmmmmmm... the 700 billion dollar bail out seems like socialism at it's finest .....Omaba for President......let's let some SMART people run our country.......PLEASE
monika, Tulum, Mexico
I believe it will be a big mistake for anyone to vote for Obama. I was listening to Collin Powell this morning on Face the Nation where he endorses Obama. Well as I watched on they showed a clip of him also endorsing the present President Bush! Where did that get us?
Gayle, Winter Park, U.S.
Obama would be a fool not to appoint Hillary to a major cabinet position. She is so smart and so strong. She should have been the nominee.
hsc, Chicago, USA
MJ, The banks who loaned the money were the 'EXPERTS' in the deal.
Loaning people over 7 times what they earn to buy a house at interest rates high enough to break them?!?
VERY SMART!! Thats why the banks should pay for the mess. I thought loan sharking was illegal????
P D Cunningham, Cassatt, USA
We should all find out come October 29th. I believe that Senator Obama is going to use his 30 minutes of Prime Time to announce his cabinet.
Deanna, Norman, United States
On inauguration day it appears we are going to become the The united socialist states of america. Colin Powell's endorsement doesn't mean jack to me, even if he had endorsed McCaiin. His list of cabinet appointments, along with majority's in both the house and senate scares me to death!
Don Rouselle, Sherrill, NY, USA
Uma Shankar, UK, asked: "Would you believe me if I say Sarah Palin's IQ is 220???"
Er, no.
Ima Woolf, Smartsville,
Joseph: Did all the Americans who bought houses they knew they couldn't afford for the past 30 years, and the financiers who lent to them even though they knew these borrowers couldn't pay the ARM resets, imagine that the banks would be nationalized as a result? You're blaming the wrong person.
MJ, Orlando, USA
Stars in a Cabinet, raising taxes, and campaign promises to bloat federal spending by nearly another $ trillion - $ TRILLION.
Yeah, that's a presecription for saving the economy.
The excuse is we already have socialism with Bush.
Baby, you aint' seen NOTHIN' yet.
Joe, San Diego, USA
President Barack Obama of the United States of America.
What a wonderful thing that will be for the country and the world!
The election race is such a huge contrast ....McCain is an old politician...Obama is a young, dynamic, intelligent man who will provide steady leadership to the US.
Philip Jasper, London,
Colin Powell was unable to straighten out that mess at the US State Department. So who cares what he thinks? And regarding O'Bama's choice for VP, Joe (University Plagiarist & 22 outright lies in the VP Debate) Biden): What was he thinking with that? And how about having Nancy Pelosi third in line?
Richard, Houston, Texas
Just a clarification...laws allowing felons to vote and civil rights restoration processes vary by state in the US. In some states, a felon can register immediately upon serving their time. In others, it requires a judge's approval. Please clarify your article.
tessy, Seattle, USA
When the federal US government begins to nationalise the private banks, socialism has already arrived--by force of necessity. Nationaliztion of private enterprise is a a key part of socialism. Did you imagine that Bush would be a closet socialist?
Joseph Rzeplinski, Burnaby, Canada
The electoral vote and popular vote will both go with Obama, as long as GOP voter suppression tactics aren't allowed to prevail.
Powell's endorsement is significant -- he's been fooled by Bush, won't be fooled by McCain. He knows Obama, and trusts him.
As a nation, we won't be fooled again.
Leah, Albuquerque, US
Amazing to read all of these truly delusional hysterical rantings of the right-wing posters here. The fact of the matter is that a similar article could not be written about McCain because the man does not have any transition plans for his administration. His campaign is all about "winging it."
Martin, Chicago, USA
In other words, all the peple that helped get us here.
ragnarb, Ringwood, USA
If you cannot argue facts, smear with Mud.
The real question is: Are American's safer and better off than they were 8 years ago. The answer for most (except those on wall street with their multi-million $$ bonuses this year) is no.
Cam, Los Angeles, USA
Colin Powell was never a true Republican and his judgment in our past wars in the middle east were highly questionable. Besides when he says that Obama is a better choice to be President that is highly misinformed. What has Obama done to show that he can even be President of this great country?
Manuel, San Juan Capistgrano, USA
The popular vote is enough in Obama's favor to be insurmountable without a huge October surprise. The electoral vote is doubtful for McCain, but still winnable. Imagine another election where the popular vote winner actually loses the election, this time by a far larger margin.
Jim Stephenson, Kansas City MO, USA
I believe that McCain-Palin with the rest of our ticket for reform best represents our best hope for America and are ready to serve our country. With your help and support, we can make this happen on November 4th. Stand with us now and join our team. We need your support, http://www.johnmccain.com
James Everitt, Houston, Texas, USA
As a citizen of united states the only thing I can tell you is that the word REPUBLICAN represents the wealthiest, racist, narrow-minded and most selfish human beings earth.
As long as things are they way, it really doesn't matter if you're struggling.
According to them They are the "REAL AMERICANS"
willy, miami, usa
When was the last time a poor person hired someone? It's businesses big & small that employ us. The US has the 2nd highest corporate tax in the world - 36%. If you wanna see more businesses close, or leave for other shores - elect BO. Simple as that...
Ken , Marlton NJ, USA
Ex-general Powell said, at the end of the first Iraqi war against Saddam Hussein, that "we are not in the killing business" while letting the entire Saddam's army to escape in peace.
What a general! But the the Bushes are well known as being wimps while considering themselves as "gentlemen".
Marc Jeric, Las Vegas , Nevada, USA
obama is a socialist. he will attempt to create an american NHS, he is a protectionist, he will make sarbanes oxley look positively soft touch and will be basically a mix of tony blair and clement attlee.
mccain has run a rubbish campain, and palin isnt impressive, but at least they arent socialist
will, grimsby, uk
"Too bad that a level of knowledge is not required to vote. Democracy only works when voters are informed and not led about by shiny worthless trinkets"
True - in 2004 the 16 States with the highest average IQ's in the USA went to Kerry.
dc, doncaster, uk
Obama a Marxist, where are these people coming from, he doesnt even make the centre let alone the left. The world doesnt need vets and pitbulls we have seen where that gets us.
mike gee, bournemouth, uk
Colin Powell has now come out for Obama, citing McCain's lack of judgement in picking Palin as a running-mate, along with the Republican's inappropriate, mean-spirited tactics employed while running a campaign. His endorsement of Obama makes clear who will be our next President.
Pamela, Palos Verdes Estates, USA
When Republicans said they want to get government out of our lives, they neglected to mention it would protect the large corporations in our country from scrutiny. LOOK what has happened and guess who has to clean up the mess! As an [ex]40yr Republican, I implore you to vote for Obama
Nancy, State College, USA
To Jari from Oregon - you say Obama is decisive - how do you account for all those "present" votes?
W.S., Rochester, NY, USA
If former Secretary of State Madeline Albrght crossed party lines to endorse white republican candidate John McCain or better yet, if the republicans had a Jewish candidate on the ticket would the media hail it as the republican reaching across party lines and bringing people together?
JimmiP, Phoenix, Arizona, USA
Would you believe me if I say Sarah Palin's IQ is 220???
Uma Shankar, UK,
I've just been watching some Ronald Reagan clips on YouTube. What a great president. He spent his political career opposing big government and socialism/communism. Poor Ronnie, I fear he would turn in his grave if he could see Americas' lurch to the left.
Peter Allen, Wolverhampton, England
Obama appeals to the shallowminded and non informed with his populist message. Too bad that a level of knowledge is not required to vote. Democracy only works when voters are informed and not led about by shiny worthless trinkets of divisive class warfare rhetoric.
John, machesney park, USA
Scott,
Democratic spending may look socialist to you, but you can't defend the billions in debt the Bush administration handed us.
Maybe if we weren't tied up in endless, pointless war we wouldn't have to doubt the funding for the great plans Senator Obama has for his presidency.
Alex, MO, USA
Boy, is stupid white man running scared.
They said the same thing about Clinton in 92 and we had 8 great years of peace and prosperity with a cabinet of domestic players.
It'll be the same this time...
OBAMA 08!
T.JONES, N.C.,
The right wing "nuts" who escaped the "loony bin" have one more item to whine about this morning. Obama's campaign released September fund raising totals of $150 million and will expand campaign into other "red states" such as West Virginia.
Joe, Manchester, Vermont, USA
Not so fast. The news media would have you believe it's over and convince the world of a winner at this time. The Silent Majority is alive and well and cannot be fooled. Watch and see. Contrary to leftists radicals, socialists, terrorist religious cults and of course, hollywood, truth WILL prevail !
rich t, Bloomington,
I can't imagine why anyone could vote for McCain/Palin. I predict a downward spiral in both the economy and American's ever having what you ALL deserve--universal healthcare, if those two win. Socialism? Give me a break. Wise up.
Amy, Orillia,
Obama always link McCain to Bush who happens to be president when America was under attack and in a very difficult times but he's not evil as Barak wants to portray. McCain is not link to any person or group who commits wrongdoing but Obama did. (ACCORN, Wright, Ayers, etc.) Think about it America?
Cecilio Gala, Kitchener, Canada
Not so fast ! The news media would have you believe it's over and convince the world of a winner at this time. The Silent Majority is alive and well and cannot be fooled. Watch and see. Contrary to leftists radicals, socialists, terrorist religious cults and, hollywood, the truth WILL prevail.
rich t, kansas,
Not so fast ! The news media would have you believe it's over and convince the world of a winner at this time. The Silent Majority is alive and well and cannot be fooled. Watch and see. Contrary to leftists radicals, socialists, terrorist religious cults and of course, hollywood, truth WILL prevail.
rich t, kansas,
You guys forget Bill had a Republican Congress. Think about Pelosi, Reid and Obama in charge. Gas prices are dropping everyday and its because the moratorium on off shore drilling expired. They have plans to reinstate it after the election if they win. Thank the dems again for high gas prices.
Eric hurley, Gilbert,
I prefer the "We are all Americans" approach to Obama's concern with dealing with issues in the USA as opposed to the "We are all Georgians" military interventionist stance of McCain-Palin. Since she can see Russia from her porch maybe Obama can offer her a role in foreign affairs
terry trofholz, plano,
Choosing his cabinet is an act of practicality. Shall we wait until January for him to start *considering* his choices?
The Carter Years are no comparison to the Depression. Who cares what rates the financing took? There WAS financing!
Mary, california, USA
the average American would not know a Marxist if one bit him in the b*m, they don't have the education to define Marxism
peter c, Devizes, Wessex
Pack your bags and head for the hills. The great experiment that is the United States of America will wallow in a new found Obama / Pelosi socialism until the time that service on the national debt causes the government to implode. Democrats and social spending = the eventual death of America!
$
Scott, Durham, NC, USA
janet from UK,you obviously know little about leading,or you think mccain himself has not been thinking about his own cabinet officials?The 1st thing about leadership is to know your weaknesses,2nd is to surround yourself with people that make you better.So he actually is Humble and not cocky
Seun , champs fleurs, Trinidad and tobago
This election doesn't have anything to do with Bush. It is a power grab by the Democratic Socialist Party who see an opportunity. Bush will long be remembered as one of the most successful presidents who did what he had to to keep the world safe for Americans. Obama is socialism's' poster child.
Dave, Phoenix, AZ, USA
Hey Jarek in Houston who said:
"I doubt any American has ever met a real Socialist... The most 'socialist' institution in the US are the public schools..."
America spends more per capita than most nations but has poor science and math skills compared to others. A shining example of socialism.
Dave, Cleveland,
Obama is the best thing to happen to America in a long time. The American people have a real chance to regain credibility and improve their country. Lets hope that the moronic fear and ignorance displayed by some posters here is a minority view and that the USA has at last woken up.
Mark, London,
God help us if this insane man gets elected and puts all these other awful people in his cabinet. This economic crises is engineered by his party I feel sure. They have all been raving about the Roosevelt years for the last two or three years and the situation we're in now is due to them.
KSmarga, Woodstock, GA, USA
Send in the liberal clowns. This country needs a true tax revolution and to do so needs a catalyst to spark the average blinded American. If four years of Obama, Pelosi, and Reid cannot shake the blinders off the American people, then we deserve to take our place in the dust bin of history.
William Krebs, White Plains, USA
The Republican Party just doesn't get it. This election is a referedum on Bush and no matter how much McCain protests that he is not Bush, it is clear to anyone who pays attention that the Puppetmasters of Bush (Rove and Cheney) are still holding the strings here.
Hillbilly Nation, Smyrna GA, USA
A supposedly intelligent woman I know expressed her political preference to me by beating her chest and chanting "My heart beats for Obama".
Stock market panic after many strong years is to be expected and we are still higher than back in 2000. The tide will turn and things will improve.
Nobama
Nona, New York City, USA
You report on Obama as if he's a movie star. It's sickening!! If he becomes our Commander in Chief,God help us!! He is the pawn of the Socialist Party. And yes, I agree our schools are socialist institutions. That's why my son is home schooled.
Jan, Madison, USA
Choosing his Cabinet already: an act of arrogance, cockiness and over-confidence that sums up the man. Heaven help us for what the American Voters are about to unleash upon us.
Janet, London, UK
I find it convenient how the media loves to refer to the great depression and somehow they leave out that glorious economic time known as the "Carter Years." How many of you financed your home at 19 and 20%. Oh, you forgot about that. Trust me, you don't have to go back 70 yrs to make your point.
Doug, Lutz, United States
I doubt any American has ever met a real Socialist nor understands the meaning of the word 'socialism'.
The most 'socialist' institution in the US are the public schools and over 80% of the population supports them.
Jarek, Houston,
Bill C... at one end of the spectrum of 'socialist wealth distribution' we have Zimbabwe. At the other we have Russia where 2/3 of the country's wealth is in the hands of 100 people. The idea that Obama will lead you towards Zimbabwe's end of the specturm shows how devoid of reasoned thought u are.
Rob D, London,
Oh for crying out loud, you socialism whiners are getting carried away. You're acting like we're going to become the USSR, but we're not. You'll live just fine and probably be happy too. I'm not an Obama fan but I'll take socialism over another round of neo-cons any day.
John F., Ohio, USA
Am I the only one walking up and down Main Street America who feels that this election is getting increasingly complicated to grasp. I'm really just certain about two points. Joe Biden truly knows where he comes from and Sarah Palin is a very attractive politician, when she wears those high heels.
Joe Sixpack, Copenhagen, Denmark
Anything left of far-right in the USA seems to be called socialist.Do any of these comments labelling Obama as Socialist know what they're on about?God save us if McCain and Palin(most probably the most right-wing candidate ever)get in.
john , shrewsbury, uk
What does Bill mean by pending Socialist Revolution?
Bush just nationalised the banks, don't get much more socialist then that!
Chris G, Leicester, Great Britain
You almost forgot to mention cabinet members.
glenn, Palm Harbor, USA
Bill C from St. Louis. I'll bet you said the same thing 4 years ago about the pending Revolution if Kerry get's in. I hope you got what you deserve!
Fred, Bible Belt, USA
Like Bill Clinton said, "Obama is a joke!"
Should he somehow win, his Socialist Presidency will be a joke on us.
Wally, Dallas, USA
Hubristic fantasies.
AG, New York, NY, USA
Barack Obama is one of the most intelligent and inspiring leaders of our time.
desteny, cary, usa
It is heartening to see a candidate that takes contingency preparation seriously - something the current administration has consistently failed to do.
Dane, Columbus, OH, USA
God save you from socialism and deliver you what pray tell Bill C.? I'll tell you what he'll deliver you in bucketloads if McCain's elected- war, fear and economic depression- i.e. more of what you've got.
Good luck to you and may God save you and deliver you an old man and.... Palin!!! ...Enjoy!
ben, Oxford, UK
If this totally unqualified marxist should be elected, it will mean the end of this county as we know it, I cannot describe how depressed just thinking about it makes me. Have Americans lost all discernment and common sense? Loretta
Loretta M., Ferndale, USA
I hope Mr. Obama wins because he will galvanize the country and improve our position in the world. I believe he will be a symbol of a new 21st century America. Sort of like a Tiger Woods in the Whitehouse. Mr. Obama will bring people together and make the impossible probable.
jtillman, Davenport, USA
will the last person to leave america please turn off the lights.
richie, san diego, usa
wake up!!!!!!! mc cain is no great shakes, but my gosh........
Gary P, Phoenix AZ, United States of America
How could my fellow Americans fall for a presidential candidate with no executive experience, questionable alliances, unclear citizenship, and socialist behavior?
I don't get it! Someone please explain it to me.
Is it because alot of my fellow Americans dislike George W. Bush?
Think!!!!!!!
Ernesto , Keizer, United States
Bill C's name has just gone on our list.
Solidarity comrades! We'll take Alaska first!
Joe Zbar, Melbourne, Australia
Don't be silly. While the Republicans told us no more taxes...they ended up taxing us anyway to bail out the Wall Street Gang. So...whether you call it tax or bailout...it comes out of your pocket doesn't it. It is amazing to me that people are so easily frightened by spurious smears. Vote Obama
Nettie, Berger, USA
Do the supporters of Obama have any idea what they could unleash unto America. Obama is a socialist through and through, steeped in the teachings of Saul Alinsky, mentored by the Communicst Frank David Marshall, peer of the aging but still radical unrepentent terrorist William Ayers.
Carol, Atlanta, USA
We heard the same dire warnings before Clinton was elected in 1992. What really happened? Welfare reform, abortions went WAY down, and the government actually produced a budget surplus. The historical memory of some Americans is approximately 22 minutes.
GB, Fairfax VA, USA
Yes We Can!
OBAMA-BIDEN 2008
Heather, Boston, USA
Mr. Obama's temperament is unlike anything we've seen on the national stage in many years. He is deliberate but not indecisive; eloquent but a master of substance and detail; preternaturally confident but eager to hear opposing points of view. He has inspired millions of voters of diverse background
Jari, Hood River, Oregon, USA
Our friends across the pond should beware of what you wish for... you might just get it..... in spades.
Kevin, Tampa, USA
The American people better wake up or they are going to elect a socialist as President.
Mark
Mark, Tulsa, USa
Bill C:
Do you suggest we should go with the 73 year old man with the "hockey mom" as the back-up?
Sarah Palin makes Bush look like an intellectual!!!
If the ticket Mcain-Palin comes out as the winner, then not even God will be able to help us!!
willy, miami, usa
The USA has always been a Socialist country. In the USA we have socialism for the 1% of the Wealthiest families and capitalism for the 99 % of of us poor suckers clinging to our 401 Ks and our split levels and ranch houses while saying goodbye to social security and medicare and college tuition.
Bruce Josloff, SF, USA
There may be no wealth left to spread if Obama gets elected. We may wish for the 1930s again.
Galt, Philadelphia, USA
Think about this, many financiers such as George Soros have been funding Obama. If Obama becomes president, these funders are going to call in their markiers and Obama will have to start passing out favors. This could get sorta nasty.
gordon
gordon, garrison, texas, USA
Why shouldn't the Celebrity Candidate lineup a Celebrity Cabinet? McCain is probably going to pick his cabinet the old-fashioned way based on credebility, commitment and credentials, not celebrity.
Maripo, New York , USA
God save you? Words fail? After 8 years of a President who has brought death & destruction wherever he has turned his fundamentalist eyes? Look up Socialism - this isn't it. You should be grateful Obama can be bothered to be President of a country left in such a shocking state, at home & abroad
Elizabeth, London,
Count down, those the uneducated. Your time is up. 8 years of the incomprehensible reign of terror from those republican nut jobs is over.
The rest of the world can now focus on picking up the pieces from one of the most disgraceful administrations in history.
Shame on anyone voting republican.
Duncan, Melbourne, Australia
This election ISN'T OVER YET!!!
There is no guarantee the Marxist Obama is going to be elected.
I will be voting for McCAIN on Monday (early voting). I encourage everyone on the fence to do the same!
This arrogant Marxist and his Media Cabal must be defeated!
Toby, Dallas, TX
The real scandal is that we're still having an election in the United States. The French fashion designers have spoken, the New York Times has given its full commitment, and Hamas is simply delighted. Why are all those bitter, God-fearing, gun-waving Americans still entitled to have a say? Change...
Richard Blauhaus, Meriden, USA
Susan Rice and John Kerry leading the charge on foriegn policy - say it isn't so. Lord help us.
Greg, Los Angeles, CA, USA
The fact that you might somehow consider this "socialism" explains what's wrong with the USA. This kind of ignorance and simple mindedness is what brought people like Bush to the White House. If you guys make the same mistake again, you deserve what you get. Get your great country back on the map!!
John Harding, Montreal, Canada
This Obama is a little too cocky and sure of himself for a lot of what Main street America.
He is going to be in for a rude awakening in a few weeks.
kevin, aples ,
Looks like it's time to break out the old Nat King Cole and Lou Rawls records.
JJ, Cypress, Texas, USA
"...as Obama begins to acquire a winner’s glow" --- wow, I haven't even voted yet. You are WAY ahead of your self on this one. He has a very tiny lead in the polls. Historically, the lead that Obama has is not enough to declare anything. Dems are always ahead in the polls...so slow down!!
Chad, Oregon City, USA
Obama is the joke of the century, we would be better off electing Mr. Bean. Where did this Obama guy come from anyway? I bet you Europeans mixed him up in a genetics lab as your dream leader, but why did you send him here for analysis? This experiment is going to stink for sure. Lord help us.
Toby, Phila, USA
Today's crisis and next weeks Election results are little ripples compared to what's next. I wouldn't leave "what's next" to the senior McCain, not poised enough.
Diouf, San Juan, Puerto Rico
Atlas will shrug. Where oh where is John Galt? I have taken many survival classes now may be the time for the final exam. I will refuse to make enough money to pay taxes to the United Socialist States of America and I hope others do likewise.
Wild Willy
Bill Greystone, Naples, USA
If we do this right, the rest of the planet may just allow us back into the membership of the world of nations. We've been on the outs for the last 8 years. Would be nice to have some friends again.
DJ Paul, Los Angeles, United States
Thank goodness our founding fathers gave us the 2nd amendment. Methinks we may have to fight for our freedom again.
greg, blaistown, usa
Time for McCain to name Romney and Giuliani to his.
Matt, Rehoboth Beach, DE, US
Barack Obama is no socialist -- he favors religious charity and plans to retain much of the Bush tax cut. People like Bill are simply reactionary. After 8 years of Bush, it's about time we shift toward the political center once more -- with a balanced budget and stable economy like Bill gave us!
Jeffrey Leatherwood, Morgantown, WV
The pending US Socialist Revolution is just a few weeks ago with Obama as our Dear Leader. God save us !!!
Vote McCain !!!
Bill C., St. Louis, MO, US
Cry, havoc
Words just fail me.!
Prudence Eely Bond McGuire BA, LONDON, ENGLAND- UK