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130 Comments

1. The Old Broad says:

   Hubby and I are like you and your Hubby. My Hubby is a true Republican… I am one of those Democrats that is on the verge of Liberal! Our votes have basically always just cancelled each other out… UNTIL NOW! We both will be voting Obama!

   Every person is different and their reasons for voting a certain are all different as well. So, I will just leave you with one thing to consider:

   McCain is really, really, really, really old! If he dies… we would be left with Sarah Palin as our President!

   Seriously, do you want THAT?!?! Just sayin’…

   September 28th, 2008 at 7:31 am

2. Sterkworks says:

   I am voting for Obama. I am impressed that he came from nothing and rose to good things with his life. He chose to try and help community rather than take the route of high paid lawyer.

   I am impressed with his family. He seems to be an excellent husband and father.

   Politically, I think he is this country’s greatest hope to get back on the right track and put the people first rather than big corporation or government itself. I also think he is our greatest chance of becoming a loved nation again in the the world, and yes, that is important for negotiating and unforeseen future events.

   September 28th, 2008 at 7:31 am

3. Marinka says:

   I am voting for Obama because I agree with him on most issues. I read the New York Times and almost anything that people will link me to. I’ve read Obama’s and McCain’s campaign websites.

   I don’t hate McCain, and as a matter of fact, I would have considered supporting the 2000 version of him. I don’t think he’s the same man and I think that he is indebted to the Republican base. I don’t think that he is the man that he was 8 years ago and it saddens me, because I think he had real shards of brilliance.

   Marinka´s last blog post..Don’t Look So Glum! McCain & Palin are Full of Aplomb!

   September 28th, 2008 at 7:45 am

4. kat says:

   I don’t know who I’m voting for yet. My husband and I both went out and caucused for Obama in the primaries. We were excited about him. Then some time goes by, you hear more, you learn more about the candidates, and I’ve become kind of disenchanted.

   I was initially excited by McCain’s choice of Sarah Palin, it was an emotional gut reaction to seeing a woman so much like me outwardly (wife, mother, ambitious, career-oriented) nominated for vice president. But again as time goes on she’s making me wince with her positions and her lack of experience. I don’t find her terrifying because frankly I’ve been truly terrified in this lifetime, and a conservative agenda doesn’t do that to me. Our government is a system of checks and balances and I think it works well; I don’t worry about any one person being able to implement their personal agenda much.

   So, I know this response isn’t much help! I think that I’ll probably end up voting for Obama because while I admire John McCain greatly, I don’t think he chose his running mate wisely and she would be the major reason I don’t vote for him. But I’m not that happy with Obama’s populist b.s., I think it’s a lot of posturing and I don’t like posers. I see and hear an arrogance in him that doesn’t sit well with me. I’m going to be watching the debates closely, may shoot off an email or fax or letter or two to the candidates just to get my word in! May not make a difference but you never know.

   kat´s last blog post..Ike Approaches – Pictures

   September 28th, 2008 at 7:46 am

5. tenakim says:

   this is a neat idea- but I already blew it on mine and went and rambled!

   I agree with the first two. I am voting Obama. I think the “trickle down theory” has reached it’s ceiling. I think we need new leadership and a completely new set of standards. I am a middle class mom of 4 and wife of a policeman.In the last 8 years, we have had our cost of living increase and our income remain stagnet and it only seems to get worse.

   I am also a Catholic, but not in the traditional definition, I suppose. I use it as a faith and a moral way to raise and educate my children. However, I feel that a person’s religion doesn’t have ANYTHING to do with the way they can or will run a country. I thought there was a thing called separation of Church and state.

   I have a 13 year old son and I feel that John McCain just might be the man that would enlist another draft- I don’t want that!

   There are many more reasons, but these are the ones that just popped into my head.

   September 28th, 2008 at 7:50 am

6. Neil says:

   My wife is a Republican. I am a Democrat. There is a lot of emotional name-calling going on during this election. Both parties want to win, and it seems as if demonizing the other is the best way to score points. In my opinion, whenever people say they are going to move to Canada because one candidate will one, my eyes glaze over. This attitude shows little respect for our political system, and the checks and balances. Even when Democrats say that Bush was the worst president ever, do they really know how much better Gore or Kerry would have been? The truth is — we don’t know.

   Most of us view the Democrats and Republicans as extremes, with Obama being a liberal nut with no experience, and McCain being a grouchy conservative nut stuck in the past. And that is why there is no room for debate.

   My wife is not a crazy, gun-toting religious nut who hates gays and wants to ban abortion. I don’t think McCain is, either. My wife prefers the Republicans because their philosophy, at least in theory, tends to be “smaller government” and “strong defense.” And you know what — there are some valid points coming from that side. Bill Clinton was such a popular president because he was a conservative Democrat. I love that Obama is all for social programs and education, but where is he getting this money from, especially after the Wall Street bailout? I understand those who complain about their high taxes being used for social programs that have proven lame in the past. It is bull that Republicans don’t care about the poor and working man. They just see it in a different way.

   My wife also was born in Russia and knows that in many parts of the world, you are only respected for your strength. Our action in Iraq was a mess, but history repeatedly shows that strength, not negotiation, is usually the best way to stop evil and aggression. It is sad that this is true, but it is hard to argue with. Pacifists would have let the Nazis run over Europe.

   That said, I am completely for Obama. He represents my ideals. And the religious right scares the hell out of me. But that doesn’t mean that I can’t listen to a Republican’s argument about fiscal restraint, economic policies, or international relations. I don’t think someone like Kissinger is an idiot. And as much as Democrats like to present themselves as the party of the common man, they are married to the same lobbyists as the Republicans. Half of Obama’s financial advisors are the same Wall Street advisors who helped Clinton deregulate the banking industry, which helped put us in the current Wall Street mess.

   My feeling is that if you can’t debate the other side’s arguments, and acknowledge some of your opponents good points, that means that you are not very secure with your own decision. I think it only helps Obama if he is thought of as a strong candidate who can lead the country in a different direction — and better than McCain. But viewing him as the Messiah and McCain as the Devil will just prove disappointing, and may even lose him the election.

   And it isn’t good for your mixed political marriage.

   Neil´s last blog post..Mom’s Retirement from Farrar, Straus, and Giroux

   September 28th, 2008 at 7:58 am

7. sizzle says:

   I think it is very important to stick to facts and. . . .even harder to find the facts. I listen to both sides and do my best to research the things they claim as truths because they are, after all, politicians. Spin, baby, spin. That’s the game they are forced to play.

   This is the first election in a long time where I don’t feel like I am picking the lesser of two evils. I fully support Barack Obama as President because he stands for what I believe in. He supports education, women’s rights, the middle class and the blue collar worker. He is not pro-war. His health care plan. Etc.

   But above all that, he is a man of poise and integrity. Just watching that first debate showed clearly the two personalities of our candidates. Not ONCE did John McCain look at Barack Obama. Not ONCE did he address him directly. He even said “horseshit” under his breath. That kind of behavior is very off-putting to me. Did McCain say some things I agree with? Yes. But he also said a lot that didn’t tell me enough. And frankly, I didn’t like his attitude.

   I’m not even going to get into Sarah Palin. I’m not behind the way she is being attacked but in some instances she is asking for it. She isn’t doing enough press. She isn’t saying anything that 8 times out of 10 isn’t a flat out fabrication. She does not inspire confidence in me. Joe Biden, who is getting very little press but who is actively campaigning, is a competent and confident candidate who can actually answer questions without saying he’ll get back to us on that.

   I get my information from multiple places. I read sites and watch shows like CNN and MSNBC, the Daily Kos and the candidates personal websites. I also went to http://www.factchecker.org after the debate and learned a lot. It’s hard to find objective coverage, to be sure, but it’s worth the search.

   sizzle´s last blog post..Debatable

   September 28th, 2008 at 8:00 am

8. Debbie says:

   I’m voting for Obama because God help me, I do believe he really does care and that’s because he’s lived it. He’s come from nothing. My only source is the man himself and what he believes in, how he says it, his body language and his smile is genuine.

   He’s managed to stay pretty much above all the nasties and hasn’t lowered himself to the normal political crap. That’s hard to do. He had the guts not to pick Hillary, which leads me to believe he can’t be swayed when he believes in something. (Just one of many examples)

   He’s looking to the future and the other is looking to the past. He tweets, for goodness sake! He’s got our country motivated again and what a gargantuan task is that?!

   Hell, I just plain like him, dammit!

   Debbie´s last blog post..Blog Awards From Special People!

   September 28th, 2008 at 8:03 am

9. patty says:

   Believe it or not, Morning Joe on MSNBC presents a pretty balanced look at the candidates. Although they spend far too much time on which candidate is winning in terms of the pop culture each week, there are a variety of pundits on from across the political spectrum. For such a liberal-biased news outlet (MSNBC), for the most part the show gives equal time to both sides.

   I try to balance my visits to Daily Kos with scans of The Drudge Report, fully recognizing the bias on each site. I also balance my NYTimes consumption with Peggy Noonan and The Wall Street Journal.

   I can’t talk about why I won’t vote for one side vs the other without getting snarky. So I won’t.

   patty´s last blog post..rewingdangdoo to early september

   September 28th, 2008 at 8:04 am

10. Tracy says:

    I’m voting for Obama for some of those core reasons that are a dividing line for a lot of folks – I’m pro-choice, against the war, this his plan for health care is better etc.

    But there are also other big, less hot-button reasons this time, like science. For the past eight years, we’ve been enduring one of the most anti-science administrations in years. We are behind the rest of the world in medical research, and, if you read science and astronomy blogs, you’ll find that the Republican party has deemed an awful lot of scientific research unworthy of funding or unnecessary, even as it helps save lives, tells us more about how our planet and our own biology works.

    We currently have an awful lot of activist, creationist idealogues appointed at different levels of government. And while I’ve never thought of McCain as one to embrace those things, his appointment of Palin tells me he is not going to correct this, and that he, too, is going to be beholden to the anti-science, progress forces in his party. This is a big deal to me.

    And deregulation – (beyond the current nightmare on Wall Street) I think we’ve had enough consumer scares in the past couple of years -the food supply (tomatoes, meat), lead paint, etc. – to hopefully rid us of the notion that corporations are going to regulate themselves, or ever put the health and safety of people above their bottom line. I also just think it’s morally bankrupt to constantly blame consumers for the problems with things like predatory lending. Citizens can’t legally kill or steal from each other, so I’m not sure why corporations should be allowed to do it slowly, through neglect.

    September 28th, 2008 at 8:09 am

11. Jim says:

    I’m not much help here. I’m republican, but I don’t trust McCain’s economic views to pull us out of our current state. I think that’s the most pressing issue. I think Greenspan was the ultimate cause of our current economic state and really don’t blame either party except for the fact that they seemed to have relied on his views like they were gospel and never tried to figure it out for themselves.

    It seems to me (other than his mild arrogance…do a search on his comments about ‘bitter Pennsylvanians’ if you want a shining example)that Obama has some better plans.

    I also think McCain’s choice of Palin was a horrible choice. I can’t see that she adds anything to his campaign except for the fact that she’s a woman. He had many other, better choices. The fact is that he is old and I don’t want her running the country.

    I can’t believe you made me comment on politics. I avoid this stuff like the plague. It’s like talking about religion. You’re lucky I like you.

    Jim´s last blog post..Thanks and Nods

    September 28th, 2008 at 8:13 am

12. mamatulip says:

    Obviously I can’t vote in this election (I’m Canadian, ICYDK), but I have been following it. I agree with the above commenter – I watch Morning Joe fairly often. I watch MSNBC; CNBC for the economic slant. I read AlJazeera on the net and I watch it on my husband’s foreign satellite dish, along with a channel called Russia Today. Decent reporting there, it seems to me.

    September 28th, 2008 at 8:14 am

13. OHmommy says:

    The debates only fueled my indecision. I am unsure and buying myself some time. These comments should be interesting and I will be back to read them.

    September 28th, 2008 at 8:19 am

14. Kay says:

    I am 100% behind Obama. I agree with Marinka about the 2000 version of McCain. That year I was all set to vote for him in the primaries before Rove tore him out of the contest. But I, too, see a changed man. A man who while he calls himself a maverick is willing to embrace those whom he harshly criticized now that he needs their assistance. I see a man who has a knee jerk reaction (threatening to cancel the entire Republican convention, requesting that the debate be cancelled). During the debate I felt that Obama was much more presidential in his demeanor. A friend asked me to consider their body language, etc. and which one would best represent our country in negotiations with those we may oppose. Answer was easy, the one who tried to make eye contact, who didn’t laugh at the issues.

    While I can’t provide an unbiased source of information, I can recommend this site: http://abcnews.go.com/politics/MatchoMatic/fullpage?id=5542139

    September 28th, 2008 at 8:22 am

15. Twenty Four At Heart says:

    I’ve tried to avoid politics on my site as well. I’ve also tried to avoid politics in my comments. My spouse and I are also of opposing parties and our political conversations are heated. I don’t recall issues or an election which has ever created a bigger divide between us. I told him yesterday that we will end up divorced by November unless we stop talking about it. We are both convicted in our beliefs. I guess that’s a good thing, but it isn’t so great for marital harmony.

    September 28th, 2008 at 8:24 am

16. Mrs Parks says:

    I was born a republican, I was raised a republican, I have converted two very liberal husbands to my republican team.
    My family members are some of the most consevative, Rush lovin, Geraldo supportin’, flag waving, church going, sensible shoe wearing people you will ever meet.
    So you can understand why it is from the back of the closet that I tell you I am voting for Obama.

    One reason.
    One word.

    You know what it is…

    September 28th, 2008 at 8:24 am

17. Natalie says:

    Do you read Clayjack’s blog, Maggie? He’s trying to decide, so his entries have very good arguments and non-selling points for each candidate. He’s done his homework and I’m sure he would be happy to expand upon his thoughts with you if you ask him. He’s a republican, but he is very undecided in this election.

    As for your husband, he needs to go to factcheck.org if he doesn’t already. I doubt it will change his mind, but it might make your arguments a little less heated. At least he can see the fabrications that are being put out there about the other side.

    The only thing I have to say about McCain is that he scares the ever lovin’ crap out of me. I live in Arizona and I don’t recall his name attached to any of the big changes that have happened here in the last eight years. That’s likely because he’s at the federal level, but still. I watched him turn from the maverick (that I would have actually voted for in 2000) into a man who has nose planted firmly up his party’s rear. I do not think McCain stands for change at all.

    Sorry, it’s too early for any reasoning’s with actual FACTS behind them.

    Natalie´s last blog post..Weekly Winners: Blame Nickelodeon

    September 28th, 2008 at 8:27 am

18. Caroline says:

    Well, if you have been within a 10 mile radius of my blog, you’d know already I am voting for Obama – lol. That being said, I really appreciate where you are coming from. I think there are so many ppl thrown off right now, not quite sure where to go with their vote and knowing just how important this election is. So much pressure. So I think opening up a dialouge like this one is so very important right now.

    Initially, I was a Hillary girl b/c I was worried about Obama’s lack of experience. But have since learned that smart judgement, good character, and true respect for humanity will drive great decisions in his future. While I offer my deep respect to Hillary, I was sick of the sketchy back handed politicking of the Clintons and jumped over to Obama. And I haven’t left. No matter who takes on this mess we’ve got, we know there won’t be over night answers. But we need someone who is going to look out for the little people with even smaller bank accounts, who is open minded, who isn’t bringing piles of DC baggage and cronism with him, and who is able to have smart dialouge with our global community (and not stoke anymore angry fires further).

    But thats just my opinion.

    If it helps, my parents – who have lived in DC for 30 years and worked with the gov. for 40 – are struggling too. My Dad is a republican and my mom usually goes back and forth with her votes – and she was on the fence with this election. Yesterday I talked to her, Obama has her vote. She said she is so disgusted by the Palin choice and McCain’s erratic choices in general, she is going with Obama. Not to harp on it, but she actually said it herself “we need some change around here.” And my father is going with McCain still but he said he thinks McCain is a little “crazy”, he thinks Obama is going to win anyway and called Palin a “Hail Mary pass”. He said his VP choice was either the craziest thing he ever did – or the most brilliant. But he’s thinking the former. Still, he’s going with McCain b/c he still represents the repub gov. that he believes in.

    So sorry for the ramble here. I really am so glad to see this dialouge tho! Hope I was some small help…

    Caroline´s last blog post..My 29 Day Giving Challenge: An Update

    September 28th, 2008 at 8:27 am

19. Bluestreak says:

    There are two main reasons why I´m voting for Obama:

    1) His proposal to change our healthcare system.
    2) His proposal to increase the transparency of government and the democratic process.

    Number 2 would have been enough for me and I would vote republican if McCain were proposing it, because I think that just this would feed other things like number 1.

    I don´t know if my sources would help much, since I live in Spain and the news I get has a foreign perspective, where things like Universal Healthcare and banning of capital punishment are taken for a given for a first world nation that respects human life.

    September 28th, 2008 at 8:30 am

20. Kristin says:

    Pretty much everything Sizzle said, plus, have you read blogography.com today?

    September 28th, 2008 at 8:38 am

21. Velma says:

    I tend to vote Democrat, and I will be voting for Obama. On basic issues such as abortion, the environment, and domestic spending, I disagree with the Republican stance in general. I am not as vehemently opposed to John McCain as I was to George Bush, but I question his judgement. He is 72, a cancer survivor, and given his explosive temper, a prime candidate for a heart attack, and I think he should have chosen a proven, experienced vice-president rather than Sarah Palin, who seems to have been picked purely to get him votes. I want a VP who is prepared to be President, not someone who I think is “just like me.”

    Yes, Obama can seem arrogant and pedantic, but I admire his personal life choices and measured approach to things. I trust his judgment to be a President able to clean up a lot of messes on behalf of this country more than I trust McCain to not make snap judgments and lose his temper and possibly leave us with an unqualified President Palin.

    Velma´s last blog post..Talk Therapy

    September 28th, 2008 at 8:39 am

22. Bennie says:

    Maggie, what a brave gal you are. Joan and I are so different because for some reason we have to agree on a candidate. This year is tough because both candidates are worthy leaders.

    Like one of the other comments we were so very for McCain in 2000 but he’s a professional politician. I like the fact that he used to go against the typical republican agenda but since he’s been nominated he’s doing everything he can to garner the most conservative of voters. I also like his choice of Palin to begin with but it’s now clear that she is not ready to be a leader of this country.

    Obama is naive as McCain pointed out in the debate but he doesn’t make rash decisions. He listens. I like his positive energy. We need that because as a nation we don’t feel good about ourselves anymore. I want a leader who is not a warrior. I want a leader who at least believes we can make some kind of peace with our worst enemies.

    I truly believe Obama is exactly what we need in our highest office right now. He will motivate all of us to be better than what we are at the moment.

    Bennie´s last blog post..

    September 28th, 2008 at 8:46 am

23. Mojo says:

    First of all, I have to say I admire the fact that you two can be so passionate in your positions, and still manage to peacefully coexist. Apparently these are very long-held so you must have known this about each other going in… I applaud you both.

    Truth is, I’m what you’d call a Libertarian disguised as a Democrat. So neither side has a universal appeal for me. There are things not to like about both candidates. And I’m sure if I looked hard enough, I could find something in the McCain platform that I’d agree with. So I’m not sure how useful this will be for you, but any time I feel even a suggestion of doubt about my choices in the upcoming elections I still them by asking two questions:

    First, is the country better off now than it was 8 years ago? Not me personally, the country as a whole.

    Second, will four more years of the same ideologies and policies change that?

    Since my answer to both questions is a resounding “no”, my path is clear in the elections. For me. If your answers are different, then your vote probably will be too. But eight years ago were weren’t mired down in a “pre-emptive war” that has no end in sight. We weren’t teetering on the edge of economic collapse.

    But most of all we weren’t nearly so polarized as we are now. In fact, it’s difficult for me to think of a time since the Civil War when this country has been so sharply and bitterly divided. And of all the wisdom that issued from Abe Lincoln (who was a Republican by the way) his words about a house divided were probably the most insightful of all.

    Can Barack Obama bridge that gap? I don’t know. But I like his chances a lot better than I like McCain’s.

    To you and Dave though, I’d just point out that in a few weeks this election is going to be over. And you’ll still disagree, but you’ll still be standing. Whoever takes the White House, don’t let it wreck the Dammit House, okay? (dammit?) That’s what kids are for.

    Mojo´s last blog post..Thematic Photographic 17: "Angles" (v.4.0)

    September 28th, 2008 at 8:46 am

24. Natalie says:

    Oooh, I want to put my two cents in on Neil’s comment; he said:

    “My feeling is that if you can’t debate the other side’s arguments, and acknowledge some of your opponents good points, that means that you are not very secure with your own decision.”

    I agree wholeheartedly and I’ve heard that Obama had no problem agreeing with McCain on some points during the debate (I was watching and listening, but was also preoccupied so somebody tell me if this isn’t true). And is it true that McCain couldn’t agree on anything with him? That tells me that Obama is much more firm and level headed in his policies.

    Neil, in talking about the other side and walking in his wife’s shoes, asked where we would get the money for the social programs Obama likes. My answer is this: Where are we getting the money for this bailout? I’d much rather take that money that we don’t really have and put it toward something that is good for the people. I believe that this bailout will only work short term because the nameless and faceless on Wall Street will decide it’s so. And then there will be another crisis and more money spent on *averting* that, with no long term solutions. I look at this like I do the ANWR thing. ANWR and the bailout are the equivalent of putting a Batman band aid on a big, gaping wound that needs stitches in order for the skin to heal. It might work temporarily, but the wound will become infected because it wasn’t treated properly the first time around.

    Even though I admit to not being fully invested in the debate (not because I didn’t want to), I was able to catch enough body language to know that Obama is grace personified and McCain does have that legendary temper. He seriously needs to practice his poker face, because it doesn’t matter how much he knows about foreign policy, if you can’t discuss anything without looking like you are going to pop, foreign leaders aren’t going to listen to a word you say. Yes, it’s superficial, but I think it is important.

    I have more to say about that, but you aren’t asking us our opinions on the debate.

    Natalie´s last blog post..Weekly Winners: Blame Nickelodeon

    September 28th, 2008 at 8:53 am

25. krista says:

    i haven’t read through all your comments just yet, but i know that sizzle wrote about factchecker(dot)org. it’s actually http://www.factcheck.org. it seems to be the least opinionated of the political sites out there and just tries to dispel misconceptions and rumors and such. granted, there is no true objectivity because every person tells a story differently, but i think this site helps. and i feel you, because although my man and i are on the same page politically, our families don’t agree with us and there are some pretty heated debates on occasion. not really until this election, which i find interesting. this election IS emotional. and i say, finally. maybe it means people are finally starting to care again.

    September 28th, 2008 at 8:55 am

26. Insta-Mom says:

    I agree with Marinka. I have read as much as I possible can…articles I have found, articles people have directed me to. I have listened to everything I possibly could about what the candidates have said. I have looked at their voting records in the Senate. And the bottom line is that my beliefs are most in line with those of Obama.

    I did support McCain over Bush eight years ago. I probably would have voted for him over most Democratic candidates. But now, it’s different. I have been terrified by some of the things I have heard him saying. I am terrified that if he becomes ill, our president will be someone with no national political experience.

    We have four children. My husband and I both work. We make what should be considered good money. But in this economy, at the end of the month, it’s a crap shoot if we’re going to make it. I honestly feel that Obama has more to offer to families like mine than McCain does. I feel like Obama “gets it” more than McCain does. I want a president who understands how much the average American struggles and works and sacrifices for their family. I don’t feel like McCain will be that president.

    Insta-Mom´s last blog post..BFL Week 2

    September 28th, 2008 at 9:33 am

27. Corina says:

    I am voting for Obama. I am going to give you straight facts as to why, without putting anyone else down.

    1.) Privatization. It scares me in today’s economic climate. To privatize Social Security, allow the markets to work for the uninsured (even if you do give me a tax break in the end, but tax it upfront) is a scary prospect right now.

    2.) Health care. Children should be covered. Contrary to popular belief, Obama does not want to hand your health care over to the government. He just wants to offer you affordable health care. And his plan does not tax the health insurance you get from your employer up front.

    3.) Science. If we want to be competitive in the world, we need to fund science. In the very least we need to not pass laws that hinder scientific and technological development. Many of these are not just “knowledge for the sake of knowledge” pursuits (although I don’t see anything wrong with that, I know that some people are bothered by their tax dollars going toward that kind of research). Alot of these pursuits have to do with medicine, green energy, and technological developments. Putting a spending freeze on everything that isn’t defense and veteran affairs (as McCain suggests) is counterproductive in alot of areas.

    4.) Foreign policy: I like diplomacy first. I think, regardless of lack of experience, Obama has a fine grasp of foreign policy. His record shows that he has supported troops coming home better than McCain in his voting record (the G.I. bill, equal time home for equal time in Iraq).

    5.) Temperament: (and I will end it here… although I could get in alot of specifics in the categories above that I don’t feel that I touched) I think Obama can remain cool and calm in many situations. McCain’s temperament is flighty. He angers when he is questioned. Maverick…. maybe standing up for his own beliefs many times, but he also has more tendency to fly off the handle. We saw his frustrations in the debate. I fear those frustrations if in delicate negotiations.

    I wish you luck in finding who you are going to vote for. I often have wanted a place where voting records were placed side by side in alot of the issues. I think that this would actually clear alot up for alot of voters.

    Corina´s last blog post..Panting like a dog

    September 28th, 2008 at 9:40 am

28. Jen @ blissfully caffeinated says:

    My reproductive rights. And my daughter’s reproductive rights. That alone is enough of a reason for me to vote Obama / Biden. Because McCain will appoint Supremes who are more likely to overturn Roe. And Sarah Palin – well, she’s frightening. And if McCain dies in office, or if he survives two terms, she’s the next republican candidate. She’s far too close to real power for me.

    Also, the war has gotten ridiculous.

    Those two reason are enough for me to abandon my anti-bumper sticker stance and proclaim OBAMA! to the republican town that I live in.

    Jen @ blissfully caffeinated´s last blog post..Tina Fey Rocks As Sarah Palin Again

    September 28th, 2008 at 9:48 am

29. magpie says:

    I have been fascinated by Andrew Sullivan’s blogging at the Atlantic. He is, by many measures, a conservative dude. But he’s slam dunk in the Obama camp. Check it out: http://andrewsullivan.theatlantic.com/the_daily_dish/

    magpie´s last blog post..Updates

    September 28th, 2008 at 9:59 am

30. The Introvert says:

    For me, this election is the lesser of two evils. I respect McCain and I tend to agree with him on several key issues, but I am not enamored with him. However, I flat out don’t trust Obama. I think he’s a lot of eloquent fluff. And I have a real problem with the unrealistic policies he’s proposing. And don’t get me started on handing over half my nearly paycheck to the government.

    The Introvert´s last blog post..retail therapy

    September 28th, 2008 at 10:04 am

31. Maria says:

    I’m a liberal. Painfully idealogical, almost socialist, bleeding heart, altruistic to a fault liberal. It doesn’t take much more than that for you to know who I’m voting for.

    I’m voting for Obama. Before him, I was all about Dennis Kucinich. I use ontheissues.org to see exactly what their stances are, what their exact quotes on different topics have been, and what their voting records are. Also, what certain organizations such as NARAL have rated them. It’s the best site by far for unbiased information.

    And regarding the debate? Especially foreign policy? McCain’s holier than thou, pretentious, and contemptuous disregard for Obama showed me all I needed to see about him as a person. This is someone that will be sitting down with leaders like Vladamir Putin, Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, and a host of others from countries where courteous, civil, diplomatic mannerisms are as important to them as the words coming out of their mouths. We cannot have someone who will refuse to look their equal, and even superior in some ways rival in the eye, and not snicker and smirk when he’s making a statement or argument.

    I am actually fearful that people will elect this man into office. I am afraid what it will do to damage our country itself, and the world’s perception of it. Is it no wonder that the rest of the world, as a whole wants Obama to be elected?

    Maria´s last blog post..Goodbye.

    September 28th, 2008 at 10:19 am

32. Maria says:

    I rambled and made ridiculous typos. But I think you got the gist of it.

    Maria´s last blog post..Goodbye.

    September 28th, 2008 at 10:20 am

33. Candance says:

    I started out really excited about this election. I’ve lost that excitement. I’m not thrilled with either of our choices, for a variety of reasons but I will probably vote for Obama because his views are closest to mine and I like Joe Biden.

    Candance´s last blog post..So, This is What It’s Like to Have a Grown-up Job

    September 28th, 2008 at 10:22 am

34. maggie, dammit says:

    I’m blown away by these responses. Blown away. This is exactly what I was hoping for, but hadn’t dared to dream — articulate, detailed, non-conformist, unpredictable, incredibly thoughtful answers. I’m poring over every word. This is unbelievably helpful. Thank you guys.

    September 28th, 2008 at 10:41 am

35. Sugar says:

    Oh boy…

    About eight years ago, my father-n-law threw a remote at me because I told him that I thought his choice for the Republican party was a hot head. That candidate was McCain.

    Last Thursday, I heard Obama talk about all the billions of dollars he wants to spend on educating the children of other countries. I wondered how we could commit $2B a year while our own kids are subjected to failing schools throughout the country.

    As for the VPs… wow. I’m disenchanted by both presidential candidates in the way they are using their running mates. I’m also not incredibly impressed by what I’ve seen from either of the VP candidates since being picked. They speak for themselves all over YouTube. It’ll be *interesting* to see what happens on Thursday night.

    I run finger pointing ads against factcheck.org whenever my BS meter buzzes, which is pretty regularly these days. As for editorials, I tend to check up on RealClearPolitics.com. They don’t shy away from “bad” press on either side of the aisle.

    One positive this election season… more and more people are coming to the table. It’s encouraging to see the masses get informed and involved. Seems like we are definitely turning away from the apathy of the past.

    Oh… and I’m completely undecided at this point, but for strategic reasons, mostly. How’s that for a short answer?

    September 28th, 2008 at 10:53 am

36. Auds at Barking Mad says:

    The debates only served to further my confusion.

    So, I don’t know that anything I have to say will be entirely helpful.

    The one thing I will say, which has caused me to question BOTH candidates, is who they align themselves with and who contributes to their campaigns and conducts fundraising for them. Some might consider this picking nits, but it’s extremely important to me. Neither McCain or Obama are in bed with people I’d EVER associate with, or take money from.

    McCain strikes me as a petulant child where it will only take one wrong move/word on the part of our enemies to get him to press that big red button, annihilating them. Don’t even get me started on this choice for VP.

    Obama on the other hand doesn’t have the experience, period. He’s a brilliant orator who sometimes comes across as having fancies of being the next RFK/JFK. Give him ten years …ten years in the Senate, or perhaps in another executive role, but I truly believe he needs the time.

    I want someone who is ready to step in from day one and without hesitation clean this mess up without making it bigger, and help America regain a place of respect in the world, amongst our fellow countries. In my opinion, neither man is capable of that task…what’s worse, I don’t know anyone who is.

    September 28th, 2008 at 10:54 am

37. sizzle says:

    Thanks to Krista for correcting my linkage. It’s a great site and I hope people will check it out.

    sizzle´s last blog post..Sound Wars

    September 28th, 2008 at 10:58 am

38. Alli {Mrs. Fussypants} says:

    I went out on a limb and posted some very helpful info today. You may like it, Maggie.

    xoxo.alli

    Alli {Mrs. Fussypants}´s last blog post..Fight the Frump- Baby fat & blogging butt!

    September 28th, 2008 at 11:04 am

39. maggie, dammit says:

    Here is the very interesting Blogography post Kristin mentioned above:

    http://www.blogography.com/archives/2008/09/debatable.html

    September 28th, 2008 at 11:20 am

40. Whitney @ Baby Tunnel Exodus says:

    First of all, I totally agree with you avoiding the political posts in the blogosphere. I have done the same. I figure if I can’t discuss politics with My Own Family Members, why go there with strangers who have the potential to become friends.

    Even so, I’m voting for McCain/Palin.

    Because they are Pro-Life.

    What do I read to back up my views? The Bible.

    Let me be clear that this is not something I feel high and mighty about on paper. I’ve had this issue affect people in my closest circle.

    I’m not saying that Obama isn’t Christian. But I am saying that he isn’t voting like one. His record is proof. Have you seen the video on youtube about infanticide? I will never sleep the same again.

    I’m also voting for them because we are a military family and I can tell you from the front lines, we want someone in command that has been under it.

    I have never been of the mindset that God, Jesus or the Holy Spirit is a Republican. I’m a Christian, not an idiot.

    But I do believe that the moral majority, the church, the 85% of Americans that say they believe in God, need to step up and use their vote as their voice.

    Blessings, Whitney

    Whitney @ Baby Tunnel Exodus´s last blog post..He Is

    September 28th, 2008 at 12:04 pm

41. vodkamom says:

    okay, I’m a teacher and I HATE the NO CHILD LEFT BEHIND CRAP. It is seriously killing our education system. go obama. (plus, my husband lost his job and this economy sucks)

    by the way, I have a little gift for you at my place. Come on over.

    vodkamom´s last blog post..

    September 28th, 2008 at 12:54 pm

42. Erika says:

    He believes in diplomacy, not in strong-arming other nations into our way or the highway.
    He believes in defense when necessary, not in offense exclusively when engaging with other countries (and other people, for that matter).
    He practices empathy, not disregard.
    He believes in community, not every man for himself.
    He celebrates diversity because he embodies it, not because it’s politically convenient.
    He supports a woman’s right to choose and, while I would not have an abortion, I do not want my uterus owned by those who don’t have one.
    He discusses LGBT issues and vows to repeal ‘Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell’ and DOMA.
    He supports Civil Unions equal to marriage for LGBT couples. (He falls short in not supporting full marriage equality. His wife, on the other hand, does support full marriage equality.)
    He supports full adoptive rights for same-sex couples, while most states currently prohibit same-sex couples from adopting children together.
    He believes in creating & implementing myriad alternative energies.
    He is an environmentalist and does not believe it’s our right to destroy the planet or manhandle its ecology.
    He understands the economic realities of food stamps and student loans from his own experience.
    He knows that a $4,000 tax credit for families to buy their own health insurance is laughably out-of-touch with today’s skyrocketing medical costs.
    He believes we all have a right to affordable health care and his proposed health care plan provides it.
    He answers every question clearly and pointedly.
    HE WILL NOT RAISE TAXES ON THE MIDDLE CLASS NO MATTER WHAT THE OTHER CAMPAIGN SAYS.
    He gets that students are so much more than test scores, that teachers are stretched beyond capacity, schools are crumbling, and that our kids are falling way behind kids in other countries in math, science, and reading.
    He never supported the war in Iraq.
    He has lived abroad.
    He respects his opponent — despite their differences.
    He listens well.
    He knows what it’s like to grow up in the margins of society.
    He understands the festering, snarling beast that is racism in this country better than any candidate ever.
    He runs the most successful political fundraising campaign and grassroots movement in history.
    He is an artisan of balance and knows that to spend in one place, we must save in another.
    He understands that our problems are complex and considers multiple perspectives and outcomes before taking action.
    He admits that he does not know everything and he is not so preoccupied with his political career to not be held accountable when he is wrong.
    He chose wisely when selecting his Vice Presidential running mate.
    He substantiates everything he says.
    His message is consistent.
    He looked me in the eye when he shook my hand.
    He knows how to use email.

    For all these reasons and more, my vote is for Barack Obama.

    Erika´s last blog post..Oh. My. God.

    September 28th, 2008 at 1:08 pm

43. Megan says:

    Honestly, I know close to nothing about politics (see my post: http://somewhatvoluble.wordpress.com/2008/09/18/election-08/), so I can’t really answer here.

    I don’t really like McCain, though. He seems like a good man, but not a man that I’d want as my president. Just one of those feelings I can’t get past.

    I’m in the same boat, though. I continue to watch the news (Fox, CNN, MSNBC…) to help my decision… but I’m still undecided.

    Megan´s last blog post..reception

    September 28th, 2008 at 1:57 pm

44. Preston says:

    Wow. Well you certainly solicited quite a few responses. My blog is a personal blog and it is about what affects me so sometimes politics creep into it.

    If you want to know more about a candidate, check his/her voting record. I think that speaks volumes more than what you read in the papers. Just google voting records or check out http://www.votesmart.org.

    I’m voting for Obama because I believe he will be better for us and our economy. If McCain and Palin are elected, you can kiss Roe vs. Wade good-bye and that alone is enough to make me not vote for McCain.

    September 28th, 2008 at 2:39 pm

45. Coleen says:

    I have not had a hard time choosing a side in this race.

    Admittedly, I am no fan of GWB, so choosing McCain would have been a long shot. It became an absolute for me when he chose Sarah Palin as his VP. I continue to be mystified by this choice because I cannot believe he was so stupid as to think that she would draw in supporters of Hillary Clinton.

    At the end of the day, for me, this race is not about a woman in a position of power, African Americans, war heros from 30-some years ago, race, religion, or war. It is about getting the country back to some semblance of peace and prosperity for everyone, not just the very wealthy. I am tired of feeling like I have a President who chuckles all the way to the bank every time I fill up my car at the gas pump. I am tired of wondering what is going on behind the scenes in Washington because it seems we are getting fed a load of you-know-what ALL the time. I am just as tired of the snarky smugness exhibited by GWB and Cheney. I don’t know what either one of them have to be smug about. This place is disaster.

    I believe there is great possibility for this country to turn things around. I cannot have faith in McCain doing so when just weeks ago he stated the economy was strong. And I cannot have faith that Palin has intelligence and foresight to run things if McCain is incapacitated or deceased. She truly scares me.

    September 28th, 2008 at 2:46 pm

46. O'Neal says:

    I don’t have any preference as of yet, the whole thing makes my head spin even trying to think about which side to choose! Most mud slinging events like that do. I have never really considered my right to vote anything special, but with age I have come to appreciate my opinion counting, especially in something that will make such a big difference in our world!

    But I wanted to thank you for publishing the post I wanted to write myself but couldn’t quite get the words to come out together right, and more so me risking looking even *more* blond than my already jumbled content! One day I will get my brain straight and can only hope to be half the writer you are! Hell, I’d be happy with 1/16! You always rock my reader!

    September 28th, 2008 at 3:48 pm

47. Brenda says:

    I certainly don’t have anything to add that your crazy smart readers haven’t already said but I just wanted to pop in a say that we too are a family divided. Die hard democrat here. My husband is a complete conservative on 99% of the issues. It’s nice to know there are others with the same conversations over dinner…

    Brenda´s last blog post..Flashback Friday

    September 28th, 2008 at 3:48 pm

48. well read hostess says:

    nutmeg
    clayjack
    andrewsullivan.com
    wellreadhostess.com ha ha ha
    pollster.com
    factcheck.org
    bbc world news

    I watch everything…and like I’m grading an entire class set of exams, I throw out the scores on either end of the spectrum. My bias is far, far, left and then go left and keep walking left…so I try to always ask about “my” candidate’s claims, “what is the objection to this from the right?”

    I think character matters. Integrity is all – even in terms of saying, “I don’t know” and “I changed my mind.”

    Hubris is the downfall of all who would be heroes.

    well read hostess´s last blog post..Non Filch Filch

    September 28th, 2008 at 3:52 pm

49. Five Husbands says:

    Maggie – the only person I have debated on the subject is my 89 year old mother who didn’t vote in the last election because she didn’t like either of them. This year however I think she is voting for Obama – partly because of his age, partly because of what she has seen happen to northeast Ohio and because I think my unemployment over the past 10 months drives the economy point home.

    I read everything I can NYT, WSJ, Huffington Post and many political blogs.

    Five Husbands´s last blog post..The ABC’s of the Bailout

    September 28th, 2008 at 4:08 pm

50. sheri says:

    I sometimes say, very snarky, I have a uterus, that should tell you how i’m voting. Today i’ll hold the snark, but my feeling’s the same.

    I read in the posts above that someone said they used to be pro mccain. Me too. and then, well, i got beat to death with republican party bat and i’ve had enough. I’m sick over the state of our economy. My grandmother, bless her heart, asked my mother to take her to the back so that she could take her money out. Thankfully, my mother took her there, removed it, and the re-deposited it right back after she dropped her back home.

    Here’s the deal. I don’t believe anything trickles down. I don’t think cutting spending is going to get us where we need to be. I’m not naive enough to think that either party is going to cut taxes just due to the huge pile of horse hooey we’re in right now. But i do believe that Obama is our greatest hope.

    sheri´s last blog post..Reason #2,855

    September 28th, 2008 at 4:48 pm

51. emmysuh says:

    I always feel ashamed because I am not very politically knowledgeable, although I wish I were more. But I have been paying more attention this election.

    (Now that I stop to think about it, this all makes sense considering I couldn’t vote four years ago…)

    Once Hillary had to drop out, I was a little on the fence between Obama and McCain. I like Obama a lot but I read an interview with McCain where he said the first thing he’d do as president was sign a bill to make torture illegal (again), which made me actually think about voting for him for awhile.

    But I have to say, honestly, that his choice of Palin as a running mate completely turned that around for me. As much as I’d love to have a woman in office, I don’t want that more than I want someone responsible with a solid head on their shoulders.

    Have you been watching SNL’s skits with Tina Fey as Palin and Amy Poehler as Hillary (or the latest this week, Katie Couric)? They’re so great!

    Hope I didn’t sound stupid in this post, I’m still learning about politics.

    September 28th, 2008 at 5:29 pm

52. Mountain Lover says:

    I was once a devout Republican, and I actually liked McCain at one point (until he announced in 2005/2006 that the first thing he intended to do was overturn Roe v. Wade).

    Anyway, this Op-Ed written by a conservative voting for Obama reflects why I denounced the Republican party, switched to an independent almost 8 years ago, and finally a democrat about 3 years ago.

    September 28th, 2008 at 5:35 pm

53. Andrew says:

    First of all, I want to know where Dave’s response is?? AND YOURS!! Clearly your voting for Obama… but you have yet to say “why”? Dave and I are fortunate enough to be working on top of the Republican Office in Madison… where I try to throw a bucket of paint on their heads every time they walk out.

    OBAMA FOR CHANGE! – OBAMA FOR CHANGE!

    My reasons for choosing Obama are fairly simple. Be it Dr. King 45 years ago, Lydia Taft 52 years ago or Margaret Sanger 92 years ago. Fighting for my Basic Human Rights is impossible when the President of the United States doesn’t want to offer them to me. Raise my taxes or anything else you want, but if I cant even have my BASIC rights… than fight I will! The fact that there are over 25! States in this country that I could be fired from my job simply for being gay. The fact that there are over Eleven HUNDRED rights that are not granted to gay couples, that everyone else can have! And the fact that I can be fired for being in the military in ANY state. It’s sad, and it hurts… I want my Basic Human Rights, and I wont get them if John McCain / Sarah Palin are in charge.

    September 28th, 2008 at 6:36 pm

54. Aunt Jenn says:

    I know that you know how I’m voting, and I know you know all the reasons why.

    So.. I only have two things to say.

    1. “Community Organizer” is not a punch line. I am someone who works with those that have not had the same privileges that I have had , that you have had, that Dave has had… choosing to help communities stand up for themselves, take care of themselves, and advocate for themselves is valiant and even I daresay Christian.
    Watching Giuliani and Palin joke about Obama being a community organizer like it’s synonymous with rodeo clown made me furious.

    2. My Dave’s Dad (strikingly similar in political views to my own Father) is voting for Obama. He said Obama reminds him of Kennedy. This is proof that the Obama-cans do exist. It’s a miracle.

    Aunt Jenn´s last blog post..ch-ch-ch-ch-ch-ch-changes

    September 28th, 2008 at 7:23 pm

55. bejewell says:

    You and I have had conversations off-line (sort of) that I’m pretty sure make it clear which way my wind blows. But like you, I stay away from politics when blogging – not because I don’t have strong feelings about it all – I really, really, REALLY DO – but because I don’t want the drama and, more importantly, I’m afraid my feelings about someone whose writing I admire will change if I hear an argument I just can’t stomach.

    So I skip it. And don’t blame you at all for doing the same.

    But can I just say, I’m so impressed by your ability to live with and love and maintain a long, happy relationship with someone who is your political polar opposite? My husband and I are different in so many ways, but honestly, I don’t think I’m open-minded enough to make a relationship work like that. That might say more about ME than it does about you, but either way, I’m impressed.

    Again.

    bejewell´s last blog post..Stats and Man Ponytails

    September 28th, 2008 at 7:38 pm

56. we_be_toys says:

    Wow, look at all the amaxing answers up there – I don’t think there’s anything I could add, and like you, I abhor discussing politics.

    In my opinion, Barack Obama is the face of the future of this country; I only hope enough people will realize it.

    Oh and Sarah Palin is not only the GD antichrist, she’s an insult to intelligent women everywhere.

    we_be_toys´s last blog post..Meet My Hamster (aka, The Long Downward Spiral And It’s Wherefore)

    September 28th, 2008 at 8:03 pm

57. Heather says:

    Maggie, I talked to my 80 year old grandmother and she said the best thing I have heard: “Why are these people so greedy? When you die it doesn’t matter and when you get older you just want to know that you can be with the one’s love without being a burden.

    I respect McCain as a person, but, Obama will be better for my grammy and my babies. (I will put hubby on this tomorrow.)

    Heather´s last blog post..Sophie Belle (not C.C.)

    September 28th, 2008 at 8:27 pm

58. flutter says:

    I think the best, the easiest, the most viable way to choose a candidate is to take away the R or the D after their name. Look at the voting record on the issues that are important to you and pick the one that mirrors your views.

    The problem, for me, with our system is that it inherently pits people against each other. “Oh you’re a REPUBLICAN??! You must be an NRA member…” or “Oh you’re a DEMOCRAT? You must be a socialist lib..”

    When really, really? I think the most balanced, the most thoughtful, the most considerate of voters have stances that reach over party lines. Why can’t our candidates?

    flutter´s last blog post..Sleepless nights and crappy photography

    September 28th, 2008 at 9:54 pm

59. NB says:

    This is wonderful to read. I support Obama for his story, his intelligence, and for his stance on health care. And for his family. He seems like the real deal to me. And he really seems to want to unify America, something I think we need desperately. It feels like some other country than mine elected GWB, and it makes me nervous.

    I have been a fan of John McCain’s for years but I don’t see the man I admired in this election. I thought maybe it was his handlers, or the party, or something getting to him, but watching the debate I was very disappointed in his childish behavior, giggling and attempting to belittle his opponent when he didn’t know what else to say. That’s not someone I want representing me with world leaders, nor is it someone I trust with “the code” or the red button or whatever.

    NB´s last blog post..Recycling

    September 28th, 2008 at 10:34 pm

60. Captain Steve says:

    I don’t think McCain is a bad guy. I would have voted for him in 2000. I liked him, still do. My entire family is Republican. They love Palin. Love her.

    I’m voting for Obama. I think universal healthcare is a the way to go. I actively fear McCain’s healthcare plan. I like that his environmental plan is more far-reaching than McCain’s. I support sex ed in schools and abortion rights.

    I do think welfare needs to be overworked, hardcore. I think Iraq is too unstable to pull all the troops out without having the U.S. blamed for some nasty fallout. Those things make me a little wishy washy.

    Captain Steve´s last blog post..Twilight – Stephenie Meyer

    September 28th, 2008 at 10:38 pm

61. Tasses says:

    I first wrote a comment trying to mask my vote while calling out some misconceptions written here. Then, I considered that Maggie was asking, and she’s such a nice gal, and then I saw that the vast majority were writing about Obama (except for one religious post – of which I am NOT) and I felt compelled to defend some inaccuracies up there about McCain/Palin.

    Obama supports No Child Left Behind (per his site) Both he & McCain want a modified version of its current incarnation, but little is actually changed.

    McCain knows HOW to email, but his war injuries cause him pain when he types (same reason he can’t lift his arms high) This is why he’s not as internet savvy. Not really nice to make fun of that as one Obama staffer did and then had to quickly pull the advert.

    McCain/Palin cannot overturn Roe vs. Wade, that can only be done by the Supreme Court (and I understand about appointing liberal/conservative judges & the current retirement issue)

    Our tax debate is almost moot at this point as we just got the royal screw this week anyway, but our daily paychecks will suffer more under Obama (unless you are making under $10 per hour).

    I am a PUBLIC school teacher who believes in school choice competition as being a good thing to increase school accountability. Why get a crappy product when you can cross the street to buy a better one? I hate Obama’s education plan. It is really unbalanced and would be a killer for smaller communities and the Mid-West (you inner-city folks would be rolling in the educational dough though).

    I am SICK of sending my oil $$$ to people who despise me. We have our own opportunities for fuel. We need to make this priority #1 because it is the underlying reason for our situation on 9/11 and in the Middle East, period.

    I also believe McCain has been lumped with Bush. Many politicians who despise Bush, respect McCain and his more centrist leanings.

    I’m very uncomfortable with Obama’s allegiance to the hate-filled preacher, Jeremiah Wright. A man’s friends say MUCH about him.

    Do I support gay rights? YES! Do I support choice of a woman’s own body? YES! But my support for a strong defense and a SMALLER government trump those right now. Sadly, the Republicans have been hyjacked by the religious zealots and the Democrats have been hyjacked by the tree hugging, paint throwing whiners.

    Still, I was fairly left leaning in June & July.

    Then, the WOMEN attacked Palin with name calling immaturity I’ve not seen since junior high school, the celebrity bandwagon craze of the Obama machine became tiring, and that over-the-top Hollywood inspired Democrat convention pushed the final straw switching me from Obama in July to McCain in September.

    I try to stay quiet about politics, but felt you deserved honesty since you asked so nicely

    Tasses´s last blog post..Disquiet Hope

    September 28th, 2008 at 11:41 pm

62. Jennifer (ponderosa) says:

    My dad lives in Delaware and he says that Biden is a party hack, and I trust my dad’s knowledge. Choosing Biden was a big tarnish on Obama’s shine.

    So when I very first heard that McCain had chosen Palin, I actually thought about voting Republican. I live in the Pacific Northwest & I loved that Palin’s from here, too; I loved that she’s from somewhere, that she lives in a place where ‘common’ people know her, because every other candidate has lived out his/her life in DC, it seems to me, and only lobbyists know them; and I figured that anyone who hunts & fishes must care for the land. (People who fish the rivers here are the rivers’ staunchest protectors.) I thought that choosing her said something positive about McCain. Imagine my disappointment when I learned more about her! She hasn’t even finished 1 term as governor, for goodness sake. That interview with Couric was so painful I had to stop watching.

    So I’m back on Obama’s side.

    September 29th, 2008 at 12:44 am

63. Christina says:

    Before I go too far – Tasses needs to go to the website many already point to: http://www.factcheck.org to get cleared up on a few misconceptions (particularly the rumor about war injuries keeping McCain from using computers) I think there are many factual reasons to support either candidate but somewhere along the line voters have got to stop voting according to rumors and smears.

    I read this post and many of comments on my phone while at my son’s baseball tournament and I was floored with the wonderful responses. I could ditto many of the pro-Obama comments which so nicely lay out his positions on issues which align with my point of view. I am not one to shy away from writing about my politics right now. It’s all relatively new to me to be so engaged so I love the debate. I am a former Republican who’s entire family is still very much with the GOP. I switched in ‘99 and have not looked back. My boyfriend is a non-voter who stays out of it – which in many ways bugs me more than if he voted opposite of me so I am working on him to be more engaged and involved. I admire you for putting yourself out there in this post and for the wanting to continue the dialog logically with your husband!

    I also think it is easier for me to not get too sick of the process since I don’t live in a swing state which is inundated with every ad buy.

    Good luck!

    Christina´s last blog post..New levels of exhaustion

    September 29th, 2008 at 3:05 am

64. Tasses says:

    I’m really sorry Maggie. I knew when I wrote that I was supporting McCain, someone would probably challenge me personally (even though I made a concerted effort to NOT challenge any particular person). I READ fact check. In fact, in the sommenter READ my entire post, she would see that I stated for others to use it.

    Here is the link to McCain’s war injuries/typing situation via fact check: http://www.factcheck.org/askfactcheck/is_mccain_unable_to_use_a_computer.html

    Seems like someone might want to go there before calling me out specifically. I would never write anything I hadn’t checked. Just because McCain isn’t using it as an issue doesn’t mean it isn’t true.

    I wrote of my support for McCain because the wonderful Maggie asked for some support for her husband’s views. I saw a few folks up there calling names & writing misconceptions. I did not call them out by name, but simply stated my beliefs. This is another reason (as I said in my conclusion) that turned me from Obama. SOME of his people are name callers and finger pointers and I never wanted to run with that crowd.

    So sorry Maggie… but I just can’t sit by and be called out without defending my VERY thought-out educated decision. Ultimately, we all vote on the subjects that matter most to each of our individual lives. This doesn’t discount the other matters, it just represents us as individuals, not ill-informed.

    Tasses´s last blog post..Disquiet Hope

    September 29th, 2008 at 4:54 am

65. Erika says:

    I appreciate the factchecker link re. Senator McCain’s inability to use a keyboard due to injuries sustained in the Vietnam War. I’m always ready to stand corrected. However, perhaps I should clarify my earlier bullet point: my candidate is not a self-proclaimed “illiterate” when it comes to modern technology; he knows how to navigate email, the internet, blogs, etc., all skills that I think are essential for the leader of the free world in the technology age. Just my opinion.

    Erika´s last blog post..Oh. My. God.

    September 29th, 2008 at 6:05 am

66. Avitable says:

    Here’s a perspective from me, someone who should probably be a Republican but isn’t.

    I’m in the top income bracket – I will get taxed by Obama’s new plan. I think that things like environmental activism is unnecessary. I believe in the death penalty.

    However, when I strip away any fiscal fealty to the Republican side and look at the social issues, I realize that:

    1. Marriage should be available to anyone who’s in love.
    2. My ability to speak freely should never be infringed.
    3. Limiting our civil rights so that we can “fight the terrorists” only means that the terrorists have won.
    4. Our reputation as a country needs rehabilitating.
    5. Freedom of religion extends to people who aren’t Christian.

    This, combined with a feeling of dread of what our country would become with someone like Sarah Palin in office, if something were to happen to John McCain, means that I’m going with the person who wants to try something different.

    That’s why I’m voting for Obama.

    Avitable´s last blog post..Creepy Craigslist Crawlers

    September 29th, 2008 at 6:35 am

67. Elizabeth says:

    I’m a coveted undecided vote. I plan to watch the debates, and read as much as possible between now and November. But I avoid all traditional American media outlets. My home page is the BBC News, and while it leans left (like most media), it seems more balanced than our country’s options. It’s also an interesting perspective from the outside looking in.

    I felt Obama got his butt kicked in the first debate. He was flustered and on the defensive. But if McCain becomes president, we will NEVER leave Iraq. To him it’s important to “win”, but it’s a war designed to be sustained, not won or lost. Spending so much money every day to “win” an unwinnable war is unacceptable to me. (And my hubby is ex-army and a conservative republican. He believes this too.) At the same time, negotiating with those people will get us no where. They aren’t rational people. They are extremists. A tough love approach has it’s merits.

    My in-laws are doctors/nurses, and they’ve convinced me that Obama’s Health care plan is not going to work. At the same time, I read a disturbing article about McCain’s plan that turned me off him too.

    The religious right scares the hell outta me, and the fact that they keep “hiding” Palin from interviews makes me nuts. If she truly wants the job and will have an influence on my life in the future, she better start talking. I can’t wait for the beating she’s gonna take after Thursday’s debate. That’s entertainment!

    Unfortunately, I don’t think either candidate will survive the first term. I believe McCain is not well, and there are an enormous quantity of ignorant racists in this country that would plan, execute and celebrate Obama’s assassination, so I’m paying a lot of attention to the VPs. Observing the dynamics on that level makes it a clear and easy choice.

    September 29th, 2008 at 6:36 am

68. maggie, dammit says:

    In terms of Biden: I thought this was an interesting blog post when I first read it last month:

    http://www.whiskeyinmysippycup.com/2008/08/26/recovery-paging-doctor-biden/

    September 29th, 2008 at 6:46 am

69. JES says:

    I’m not going to read anyone else’s replies just yet — just answer the question for The Missus and me. And I’ll start — characteristically — indirectly, by talking about the “Vote for X” yard signs in our N. Florida neighborhood.

    Of the ones we’ve seen so far, the most interesting (we think) are the two in our immediate neighbor’s front yard. “McCain 2008,” says one; “Another Democrat for McCain,” says the other.

    …I just deleted a couple hundred less-than-objective words in this comment.

    The bottom line is: A big problem with US national politics in the last 28 years (approximately *cough*) has been the rise of an electorate which votes for a candidate based on one or two make-or-break issues. (This is true in primaries as well as general elections.) It’s understandable that Issue A might be more or less important to a given voter than Issue B — I’m not saying they need to be equally weighted. I’m just saying voters have been encouraged to adopt maniacally entrenched opinions from which they will not be budged. “I’ll NEVER vote for Candidate X,” they say, “because s/he supports Issue C… even though s/he supports A, B, D, E, F, and G, which I really wish SOMEBODY would support…”

    Like, huh?

    Anyway, we’re too wishy-washy and/or amorphously political to be that sort of voter. But again, just speaking for The Missus and myself: Republican or Democrat, we can see very few reasons to vote for McCain-Palin and a lot of reasons not to; and Republican or Democrat, we can see a lot of reasons to vote for Obama-Biden and a few reasons not to. That’s why we’ve got the Obama sign in our own front yard, and our fingers crossed.

    So now I can go back and read what everybody else has to say.

    JES´s last blog post..Paying Attention to Setting

    September 29th, 2008 at 6:55 am

70. Sammanthia (The Edge Of Insanity) says:

    Might I say this is one of the first polital posts that I’ve read and actually ENJOYED! I refuse to get into politics on my blog just because I’ve seen a few comments on others that made my hair curl with how rude they were, but the way you went about it was brilliant, and you’ve got some of the nicest commenters I’ve seen on a political post.
    That’s all I have to say. Oh, and I watch Fox news on all things politics.

    Sammanthia (The Edge Of Insanity)´s last blog post..Harlot’s Web

    September 29th, 2008 at 7:00 am

71. Crystal D says:

    I read through a lot of these comments yesterday and I was very impressed with how thoughtful they were. I am so pro-Obama that I am not sure I can add anything that would help in influencing your hubby. I tend to get squealy myself. My husband is much better at calmly pointing out arguments in a positive non-combative way to our right swinging friends. But he did turn me on to Andrew Sullivan’s blog (The Daily Dish) which can lead me toward all kinds of information to put in my arsenal.

    Crystal D´s last blog post..Charlotte’s Birth Story

    September 29th, 2008 at 7:27 am

72. Nicole says:

    Like you, and so many others, have pointed out, I generally avoid politics like the plague on my own blog. So I applaud your bravery in taking it on. My blog focuses on my house, all the work that gets done there, the funnies and frustrations that go along with it.

    But this year, the election has a lot to do with my house. Your house. Everyone’s house. Our jobs, hell, even our health coverage is at stake. Life as we know it is in limbo, folks. PLEASE wake up. This country can’t stand four more years of a George Bush administration.

    That’s why I’m voting for Obama. Was he my first choice? No. Do I agree with him on everything? No. Do I think he can do everything he says he wants to? No. (But neither does he and he’s said as much.) I admire him for going beyond the challenges of his youth and being a better person, father, and society figure for it.

    I read just about everything: Time, Newsweek, NYT, The National Review. I watch just about every political pundit there is with a few exceptions because I’d be losing my dinner if I had to sit through their diatribes each night. I’ve read through both candidates sites. I’ve even read their books.

    Face it. Whomever inherits the top job takes on one of the greatest challenges in this nation’s history. I pity them. Yet I pity us even more if it happens to be the McCain/Palin ticket that gets it.

    I used to have a whole lot of respect for John McCain. He stood up to his colleagues. He went across the aisle. But, as others have said, who IS this guy that’s running today? He’s not the John McCain who survived all that hell in Vietnam. (Making him one of the few living heroes today in my opinion.) He’s not the guy that Dubya so scathingly and unforgivably attacked in 2000. He’s a shell of that guy though. He has bowed to party politics, kissing Dubya’s butt (which is where I really lost most respect) and doing anything he thinks he has to to get elected.

    And Palin? I don’t want to start. Do I think a woman veep would be fabulous? Oh yeah! And a woman president would be wonderful. (Men have been screwing it up long enough.) But this woman? NO. ABSOLUTELY NOT. And the thought of John McCain dying in office and the country being left to her high school cliquish watch … my heart thunders at near stroke levels.

    No way. No how. No McCain-Palin.

    Nicole´s last blog post..Run Over by the Driveway

    September 29th, 2008 at 7:33 am

73. Miss Britt says:

    The number one reason I’m voting for Obama?

    I make less than $250,000 a year.

    And that makes ME, personally, better off under Obama’s economic plan.

    Also, while NEITHER of the candidate’s proposed budgets would BALANCE the budget, independent economists have shown that Obama’s leaves us with LESS of a deficit.

    Which is good for the economy as a whole, no matter how much you make.

    (I’m sorry I don’t have links.)

    September 29th, 2008 at 7:56 am

74. Tasses says:

    Just want to add that many of these comments have reminded me why I was leaning toward Obama in July. Great readers you have! And while I agree that technology understanding is extremely important, it’s just not enough to sway the other issues. Again, really great points on Obama by many of your level-headed readers.

    Tasses´s last blog post..Disquiet Hope

    September 29th, 2008 at 8:11 am

75. Rachel says:

    I am voting Obama for several reasons. I highly respect someone who is a self made person, I value reproductive rights, I love his ideas about health care, and quite frankly, think it’s time for a change.
    I was decided on Obama before McCain announced a running mate. Like so many others here, I think McCain is a hero for his Vietnam time, and I liked the 2000 version of McCain. However, a lot of water has gone under the bridge since then, and I now see McCain as McBush. If that wasn’t bad enough, he picked Sarah Palin for a running mate. I shudder at the thought of a president Palin. Like Nicole who commented above me, I don’t care to imagine what the country would be like left under the watch of this high school cliquish woman.
    Furthermore,I just can NOT vote for a woman who doesn’t support abortion in the case of rape.

    Rachel´s last blog post..Well, I feel like a jerk.

    September 29th, 2008 at 8:20 am

76. furiousball says:

    I’m voting for Obama. This past administration has set new records for the worst management of foreign policy, environmental policy, and economic policy. The current state of the national debt is inexcusable. Bush was left with a balanced book and he has screwed it up beyond belief. I see McCain as having the same stances as the past 20 years of Republican candidates have had foreign policy-wise and especially the same supply-side economics practices.

    furiousball´s last blog post..Built to Spill with Meat Puppets 9/20 @ The Trocadero – Philadelphia, PA

    September 29th, 2008 at 8:24 am

77. Mr. Chuck says:

    You know I have a hard time with this election in general. I have a strong feeling to support McCain due to my military roots, but that alone should never be the deciding factor. Obama has also made me angry at times to. Now looking at the ticket I feel that both the Democrats and the Republicans made poor choices in canidates. You have one party screaming for change and that is the ticket that Obama has run from the begining, and then they select a Rich ol white guy for VP, How is that change? Then you have the republicans screaming for thins to stay as they are and they pivk a womanto be the VP. Now I am not saying Palin is not intelligent or attractive, but you cannot tell me that the decision made for vp was made thinking she is the best canidate, just a female canidate that is countering the Democrats in the moving ahead reform.

    At this point I don’t know who I am going to select, I just hope it is the better of two bad choices

    -C-

    September 29th, 2008 at 8:31 am

78. Lara says:

    I support Obama because I feel like he’s the most authentic of the candidates. I’ve seen numerous videos of McCain “flip-flopping” his statements, depending on where he is speaking, and to whom. I’m sure Obama has a few of those, but I’ve not seen them. And in listening to him, I just get a real sense that he is who and what he says he is. I don’t get that with McCain… I get the sense that he’s a career politician who to some extent will do or say what it takes to get what and where he wants. And while I realize that ALL politicians have that to some extent, I always am hopeful and search for the one who gives me the most sense of authenticity. This time, that sense comes from Obama.

    Lara´s last blog post..I suck

    September 29th, 2008 at 8:47 am

79. Lara says:

    (And in addition, if I were on the fence at all, Palin’s choice cinched it for me. McCain’s age means there is a real chance of Palin moving up, and I don’t even want to think that. She is woefully inexperienced and has too many extremist perspectives for me to EVER support her in any role in national government. And I want someone in office who I think will try to save the environment rather than plunder it even further than has already been done.)

    Lara´s last blog post..I suck

    September 29th, 2008 at 8:51 am

80. The Cubicle's Backporch says:

    I’m still not sure. I’m weary of Obama’s healthcare plan. I don’t mind paying for kids who don’t have health insurance. But adults? I’d rather not. I worked hard to get where I’m at, and why should I have to pay each time that 30-something-year-old Johnny wants to try and get pain killers, or everytime Hypochondriac Betty coughs and b/c she’s not paying for her doctors bills, she goes to the doctor every other day. I probably need to read up more on it, but that’s from the tidbits I’ve been hearing.

    I also don’t think that we should outlaw abortion.

    Who knows.

    The Cubicle’s Backporch´s last blog post..Jennifer Trivia Answers

    September 29th, 2008 at 9:35 am

81. insane mama says:

    I’m a registered independent. I am at a loss with this election, and I have found these comments to be helpful. I think the thing that scares me about McCain is age. I like Obama’s healthcare plan, but I don’t agree on raising the taxes…. AHHH I need more resources

    insane mama´s last blog post..A Devil In Disguise

    September 29th, 2008 at 9:44 am

82. Greta/Does This Blog Make Us Look Fat? says:

    I, like most, am not happy with either choice.

    For me…the decision is about energy. I am voting for the person I think has the best energy policy. I think one man “gets it” and the other doesn’t. Pure and simple.

    Though…sadly…with the financial crisis…I realize neither of them will likely be able to fully implement their plans in the wake of what’s happening.

    That said…whoever wins will be my president and I hope he does a good job.

    P.S. I don’t need to hear Matt Damon’s opinion on anything other than what movies he likes best.

    Greta/Does This Blog Make Us Look Fat?´s last blog post..My First Week on Weight Watchers

    September 29th, 2008 at 9:53 am

83. Christina says:

    Tasses – I am so sorry. I went back and re-read your entire first post word for word and I still don’t see any reference to using a fact check site or the one many of us brought up which is why I pointed it out. However, I absolutely did not mean to infer that all of your points were not well thought out and informed. As I stated, there are many many good reasons to choose either candidate!

    Christina´s last blog post..From dawn to dusk

    September 29th, 2008 at 10:15 am

84. anymommy says:

    Wow Maggie, this was great. I learned tons from your commenters too! I avoid politics like the plague and always feel underinformed and ill-prepared for discussion. My husband and I are exactly like you and your husband. I ADORED this:

    “My husband is a compassionate, highly-intelligent man. If you tell me you’re supporting Obama because people like my man are idiots, I won’t be able to trust what you say…”

    This is how I feel every single time someone bashes McCain and Republicans or says the choice is ‘obvious.’ My husband is also incredibly compassionate, brilliant and better read on most issues than any one else I’ve ever met. He’s also extremely conservative. I disagree with him on so many things, but I will NEVER say that he is stupid, doesn’t want to help our country, doesn’t care about the problems, etc.

    I enjoyed this immensely, which is unbelievable considering the subject!

    anymommy´s last blog post..I Am a Magnet for Insanity

    September 29th, 2008 at 10:25 am

85. Tina says:

    Maggie, you have gotten some wonderful, well considered and thoughtful responses. There’s little I can add beyond saying that I chose the candidate whose views on the issues are most similar to mine. The candidate whom I feel will accomplish the most good and who will work hard to leave our country a better place for our kids and grandkids. For me, that’s Obama.

    Tina´s last blog post..Dear Interested Home Buyer,

    September 29th, 2008 at 11:01 am

86. Mrs. Kitty says:

    What a loaded question girl! I am so scared of political posts because things turn ugly real fast and soon friendships are dead.

    I think that as long as you and your husband don’t attack each other during your heated arguments, then things will be ok. Good luck!

    That being said, I can not in good conscience vote for ANYBODY who hasn’t served in our military. I think that the person who will become the chief of command needs to understand fully what that means. I would feel the same if there was a woman candidate as well. I come from a long line of those who have served and I have a ton of respect for our military. This is especially true for this election when our country is in a state of severe conflict.

    Looking at our past presidents, we used to vote in our greatest general commanders because of their knowledge of protecting this country and keeping us safe. I think that tradition NEEDS to continue.

    There are a ton of reasons why I am voting for McCain, but this is one of my top reasons. He not only served, but he was a P.O.W. and came out with a patriotic pride that I can never truly understand but respect with all my heart.

    If Obama had served, maybe I would re-evaluate.

    Mrs. Kitty´s last blog post..I know way too much about my neighbors

    September 29th, 2008 at 11:02 am

87. Carrie says:

    I am voting for Obama. The country needs new leadership and new direction and he can inspire a nation. He is thoughtful, deliberate and level-headed. He will surround himself with intelligent, experienced people and quite possibly this country will be okay.

    McCain is impulsive and rash. His choice of Sarah Palin is just one example of this. Watching him during the debate he seemed like he wanted to explode on several occasions and could barely hold it in. That’s not what I want in a leader.

    More on Sarah Palin… she cancels out any confidence that McCain exudes. She is absolutely the worst pick he could have made for a running mate. She comes across as really, really unintelligent and uninformed. The thought of her possibly being president scares the bejesus out of me.

    September 29th, 2008 at 11:22 am

88. amelia bedelia says:

    I am voing for McCain. It all boils down to: I know my Country, my family and my friends will be safe with McCain as our President. He has proven to be a man who will stand up for our Nation and defend it. I only pray that if Obama becomes president he will know the true meaning of fighting for our Country.

    amelia bedelia´s last blog post..The Big Trip and Pictures!

    September 29th, 2008 at 11:27 am

89. nutmeg says:

    Kudos, Maggie. This is the most objective, intelligent dialogue on the subject I’ve seen yet. What amazing readers you have. And who is Sizzle because she has stolen my brain and I want it back? I also won’t bother to rewrite what Erika has already written so well, but yea, what Sizzle and Erika said.

    And to your husband, please tell him I said it’s a good thing he’s so damn sexy in those chaps.

    Now, on to my reasons or how I made my decision on this one: In spite of my staunch, almost frantic support of Obama, I am a registered independent. I almost always fall into the category of centrist. I agree so much with what JES had to say about voter habits. I would never choose a candidate on a wedge issue but try to prioritize my issues by importance and then see how they line up with the candidates. I would have to list them with the most important first this way:
    1. Safety/defense
    2. Economy
    3. healthcare
    4. my right to choose
    5. education
    6. civil liberties

    I’ll stop there because otherwise we’ll be here until dinner. Here are my brief thoughts on the big ones:

    1. Safety: I have always opposed the war in Iraq. The Bush administration manipulated 9/11 to sell their unethical war. Now I fear that McCain will stubbornly resist an exit plan, in spite of the fact that Iraqi Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki has called for one, because he refuses to be proven wrong. I think he was speaking the truth when he said he’d like to see us there for the next 100 years and campaigning when he retracted the statement. McCain will take the role of ‘the decider’ on this one. I think Obama will work best with Petraeus in developing a safe exit plan in a safe period of time. I completely agree with Obama that we have taken our eyes off our real threats. We have also exhausted our military to a dangerously unsafe level. If N. Korea, Iran, China (I promise – our biggest threat), or even Russia wanted to catch us with our pants down, they will. I will avoid going off on McCain’s choice for V.P. (irresponsible) but one of my greatest concerns for our country is how we are perceived by the rest of the world. This is so important in international issues both economically and defensively, and the world is laughing at us! The world is laughing at Palin! We can’t afford that!

    Economy: On this one I have done a great deal of reading – Obama’s entire economic plan and his intensely detailed e-book as well as McCain’s very broad and nebulous poor excuse of a plan. On the economy Obama has had his finger on the problem and the solution for a very long time. Obama recognized, long before the rest of us, that the problem which is threatening our economy is not in fact Washington’s debt but my debt and yours. He called for Wallstreet regulation – ACCOUNTABILITY – not only on Main Street, but on Wall Street. (In other words, let’s stop these banks from allowing people to build so much debt that they are forced to default on it, forced to file bankruptcy, forced to put the actual banks in jeopardy of collapse. Wow. Look what’s just happened!) Not your usual liberal position. Nobody listened. Obama is the candidate who will address the home mortgage loan crisis which has directly impacted you and me. Obama is the candidate who will implement regulatory reform. McCain, admittedly not an expert on economy, plans to let the problem unfold. Irresponsible, especially when his voting record shows he helped get us in this mess in the first place.

    I’m going to skip over healthcare and my right to choose, because they’re so obvious (McCain’s healthcare plan is at best laughable.)

    Education: If McCain is allowed to implement the voucher system (school choice) into our already failing public school system, we will get exactly what the Bush administration has been working so hard for – the rich will get richer and the poor will get poorer. We will in fact bankrupt our public school system for all but the wealthy who are already choosing to educate their children privately. This is morally currupt, what Kozol calls social homicide. Please, please, please, if you’re interested in this issue, read Kozol’s letter to Senator Kennedy http://ed-action.org/content/KozolLettertoKennedy120507.pdf or anything by Kozol for that matter. McCain is not the candidate who will implement social reform. Obama does NOT support NCLB as it is. He plans to reform it to reduce high stakes testing, re-evaluate teacher accountability, and school accountability so we are not leaving behind the schools – more impotantly – the students who need the most help. McCain doesn’t want to throw anymore money at education. He’s too busy throwing 700 billion dollars at CEO bankers.

    I really could go on and on. I will leave you with this: We have a bipartisan system that is meant to work as a check and balance. It is clearly time, if such a system is to be effective, for the pendulum to swing to the democrats. Please do your part in making this happen.

    nutmeg´s last blog post..sometimes you just have to laugh

    September 29th, 2008 at 11:46 am

90. Dave says:

    Too Left – Too Right. As a Republican, I did not vote for McCain during the primary. Obama is too left, too inexperienced & has too many questionable past & present associations for me to consider him for the job. With the current financial situation – I wonder where the funding will come from to fund the promises coming from either side, but am particularly curious about Obama’s source. I’m getting pretty well taxed as it is. Sarah Palin doesn’t deserve the treatment she’s getting – but she needs to be let loose to let people know what she’s really all about. In the end – McCain will get my vote based on experience & more conservative positions. BTW – McCain did warn against the fiscal tragedy that’s going on today & co-sponsored a bill in 2005 to increase oversight & accountability. It was shot down by Mr. Obama’s party – the same party that controls the House & Senate but couldn’t get enough votes together to pass the bailout. At the core of the financial issue remains – pressure (going back to Clinton) on banks (FM & FM specifically) to give loans to folks that couldn’t pay them back. I’m all for helping out but the “risky” loans should have been handled more selectively & managed by a more exclusive group with Federal Insurance back up if the idea was to help 1st time buyers qualify. That would have been a win-win. One last point (sorry) – promising tax breaks to the middle class is an old tactic. 250K being the cutoff encompasses a huge sector – particularly business. Businesses don’t pay taxes. They pass along increases to consumers, cut back on employees or freeze hiring & or wages, reduce R&D investment &, like we’re all prone to do when times get tough – play everything tight. Real growth comes from freedom & free enterprise. John F Kennedy – a Democrat I might add, knew & implemented REAL tax breaks that helped our economy ‘back in the day’ – The tax breaks of this decade pushed for by the man everyone seems to want to hate/blame – spurred economic growth & lowered unemployment dratically. (Unfortunately – spending was not controlled the way it should have been – have to call ‘em like I see ‘em.) So, (deep sigh) I’ll hold my nose & vote for McCain & hope Obama returns to political life somewhere where I’m not ever affected. Thanks – you have a great blog by the way.

    September 29th, 2008 at 12:10 pm

91. wallace says:

    http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H5tZc8oH–o

    September 29th, 2008 at 12:44 pm

92. Sugarplum's MOm says:

    I have never read your blog before today, and I’m glad to see (most) comments kept under pretty good control.

    I’m voting for Obama. I try not to pay attention to the politcal mudslinging and end up going with my gut instincts most often. We missed the debates on Friday night, so I didn’t see for myself but I’m disappointed with the number of comments about McCain’s demeanor. Not very presidential at all.

    For me, my number 1 issue is abortion rights. I have a very very difficult time being persuaded by enough other issues to vote for any candidate that speaks about being in favor of overturning Roe V Wade.

    Beyond that though – my gut is that Obama has a better grip on what life is like for the average Joe like me than McCain does, and I want someone in office who is going to be more understanding of my needs and how things affect me. McCain didn’t even know how many houses he had. Yes I know they’re in his wife’s trusts. Yes I know he has 13 cars that are mostly driven by other family members. Still – as a presidential candidate, you have to disclose all your assets and tax statements etc. Doesn’t he think it’s worth the time to understand what exactly is in those statements? That implies a certain disrespect for the system to me.

    For Obama, true, he’s inexperienced, but that’s what cabinet advisors are for. The Pres may make the final decision and the responsibility lies with him, but I feel that Obama is intelligent enough to carefully consider the thoughts and opinions of the more experienced people around him.

    As for the Sarah Palin choice, I believe she was chosen to try to swing Hilary supporters away from Obama simply because she’s a woman. I worry about her ability to adequately balance her family life. She has a teenaged daughter who is pregnant yet I thought she was in support of abstinence only education. That’s not working so well for her family. If that information is incorrect, let me know.

    She has a special needs baby, and she’s pursuing a 24-hour-a-day job. Spare me the arguments about how men take jobs and pay little attention to their families and it’s fine for men to work these jobs so why not a woman? It’s just plain different for moms than it is for dads and it seems that on a personal note, this is not the best time for her family and I wonder how she will find that balance. I’m not saying she *can’t* do it… but there’s no denying it’s a big task.

    Sugarplum’s MOm´s last blog post..The Ends of the Earth

    September 29th, 2008 at 12:47 pm

93. jenboglass (steenkybee) says:

    I’m firmly in the Obama camp. I tend to lean left anyway. I know both candidates are playing the political game, but McCain is spewing Bush-isms and is too much of a gamble for me.

    I think either candidate will have a tough time and may only be a one-term president.

    I know this is quite a personal topic too, but I am a firm believer in Pro-Choice. Both of my children are adopted so it’s odd that I feel this way. I am extremely close to my daughter’s birthmom. We have had several talks about how she felt during her pregnancy. I don’t think I could ever abort a baby, but that’s my choice and a decision that I haven’t had to make. I have friends that have had to make this tough decision. As for my daughter’s birthmom, she almost aborted her twice, but just couldn’t. I’m so glad she didn’t! We’ve had so many talks about her feelings and reasons. I will keep those private. She opened my eyes to many, many things I hadn’t thought of before. I am glad she had every option open to her. I believe that abortion is a symptom of a system that is failing somehow. Educate. Raise awareness.

    I don’t want my president to be relatable to me. I hope he IS elite. He should be.

    I check in at factcheck.org for a lot of things. I watch Fox News just to make me mad. Am I crazy?

    jenboglass (steenkybee)´s last blog post..The Five Spot (Formerly The Friday Five)

    September 29th, 2008 at 1:22 pm

94. Erika says:

    This is the coolest display of conversational civility about this election that I’ve ever seen. Three cheers to everyone here for being open, courageous, and awesome!

    Erika´s last blog post..Oh. My. God.

    September 29th, 2008 at 3:35 pm

95. nutmeg says:

    Oh, Maggie, I’m glued to your readers’ comments! I can only hope the election goes exactly the way comments have right here. For those of you who want to do more, please join me in building Obama’s volunteer base: http://simplynutmeg.com/?p=803

    Yes we can!

    nutmeg´s last blog post..sometimes you just have to laugh

    September 29th, 2008 at 3:41 pm

96. Melissa says:

    This comment section is an awesome read and wonderful food for thought for me as well. Thank you for posting this Maggie!

    Melissa´s last blog post..6 random facts

    September 29th, 2008 at 4:11 pm

97. Dad says:

    OK. George Bush has destroyed my Republican party. I used to believe that there was room under the tent for me-a Libertarian. I want to vote for Ron Paul but I know that we are both hopelessly stuck in the 1800’s. John McCain has sold his soul for “presidential fever” and is a shell of the man who ran in 2000. I get some enjoyment watching the left rip Sarah Palin to shreds, because I really don’t think they understand just how real her support is-but she really isn’t qualified to be a heart beat away. So, I guess I’m going to vote for Obama. I think he is a thoughtful, intelligent man and I trust he will surround himself with the same.The irony of this campaign is the back and forth argument between the candidates over who will slash spending the most.Our economy has been so mismanaged over the last 30 years, that only MASSIVE government spending will keep us out of a depression. But of course… i could be full of shit.
    Love, Dad

    September 29th, 2008 at 4:18 pm

98. Best political discussion in a long time « Trees and flowers and birds! says:

    [...] 29, 2008 by tpgoddess0103 Check out Maggie’s blog for a wonderful discussion going on in the comments. Her husband is a Republican and she is a [...]

    September 29th, 2008 at 7:04 pm

99. Pamela says:

    You know how I feel about the election. I just want to say that I love how everybody is playing nicely with others over here! It’s so nice to hear what other people believe on a highly charged topic without the snarky nastiness.

    And that is why you’re the Queen.

    Pamela´s last blog post..it all started with an innocent trip to the midwife, and also a LAUNDRY TREE GIVEAWAY

    September 29th, 2008 at 7:11 pm

100. The Benevolent Dictator says:

     Hey there.

     Thanks for your setting of the ground rules. When people pull out the “George W. Bush is stupid” line…well, nothing makes me tune them out faster. Sure, I don’t think he’s the sharpest knife in the drawer, but if that’s all you have to add to a political discussion, it’s probably not one worth having.

     I support Obama for several reasons, most of which I won’t repeat as they’ve been spelled out pretty nicely in the comments above. But, I think that he has shown that he can mobilize people and make us all excited to participate in the political process again. I think our country is sorely in need of caring again.

     I really don’t think that McCain would be a bad leader, but personally disagree with him on many social issues. His personal commitment to the country can’t be equaled and he obviously is very committed to his policy.

     All good things, but I think that, at this time in our lives, Obama is the better choice.

     The Benevolent Dictator´s last blog post..Typical Utah Sunday Afternoon

     September 29th, 2008 at 8:55 pm

101. jen says:

     i was going to carry on and on but instead i’ll just say: Ditto to Erika, dude. Ditto to Erika.

     it’s about truly wanting to level the playing field or keeping the status quo.

     jen´s last blog post..guess who’s coming to dinner

     September 29th, 2008 at 9:08 pm

102. Anonymous says:

     Enjoyed reading the comments on your post asking who readers support for President.

     Personally, I will be voting for the Obama-Biden ticket.

     I have watched John McCain become a liar during this campaign, manipulated by his handlers, just like Bush was during his two campaigns, and I see too much similarity between the two, to believe that he will really effectively change things.

     The debate last Thursday also displayed several more reasons to persuade me not to vote for him, including: his temper spurts, his disrespect and his contempt displayed towards Obama, his swearing and impatience displayed while listening to his opponent talk, and the lies and distortions he deliberately spouted during his answers and responses. But, that is what the National Republican Party is all about these days, lie, distort and distract.

     Then there is this disgusting lie McCain spewed about championing POW-MIA issues, right at the end of his final comments. As Dave pointed out on his site, this is a bold-faced lie and is absolutely disgusting in the worst possible way for a presidential candidate to directly lie like he did to the American people, to help get himself elected!

     And then there is Gov. Palin… What a joke! She is so incredibly UNQUALIFIED to be either VP or President, it is scary! The VP debate Thursday evening should be quite a spectacle, to say the least. But I can see the Republican campaign spinning that all over the place, saying that Biden and Democrats treated her horribly and with such disrespect, to elicit a sympathy response for her. I can just see it coming. And for McCain to choose her, rather than someone who IS qualified, like perhaps Lieberman or Romney, was an obvious ploy to get the Hillary and women voters. Another reason that I would never vote for him is that, by choosing Palin, he put getting elected, before the country.

     And then, there is McCain’s debacle of today, when he went on TV and took credit for getting the “$700 Billion Rescue Package” passed; and was soon followed one of his cronies, Mitt Romney, also claiming that McCain was the reason the Plan has passed; and then IT DIDN’T PASS! His next step was to blame Obama and his Democratic allies in the House for its defeat. THE FACT IS 2/3 of House Republicans voted against the BILL, and that is the MAJOR reason the Bill didn’t pass.

     Also, in a speech in Ohio today, McCain claimed that he put his campaign on hold last week (HE DIDN’T) and became a LEADER in the cause to get the Bailout Plan passed, and spent the weekend in Washington on the HILL, working with congress to get a plan together that would pass this week. He said Obama was just “on the sidelines” and had “to phone it in” instead of being on the Hill also, and that act made him (McCain) a real leader on this issue, like Obama wasn’t. IN FACT, McCain spent the weekend in one of his condos in Washington ON THE PHONE, not on the Hill as he said he was, PHONING IT IN, trying to rally support for the Bail-Out Bill. What a LIAR and HYPOCRITE HE IS!

     I’m telling you, the world must be looking at all of this, and thinking, well, the Roman Empire and the British Empire eventually fell, so now it is the time for the American Empire to fall.

     Scary, but maybe it is time…

     September 29th, 2008 at 11:24 pm

103. Squib says:

     My husband and I are also very much politically divided. One of the things that helped the stress that was building in our household this year was we already voted. We are going on our second honeymoon election week so we had to absentee vote because of that, but it also lifted a weight off the collective household because we know our deed has been done and cannot be changed, so our life is back to normal. We normally don’t talk poltics unless we are explaining our points of views to our girls because after 20 years of being together and 14 years of marrage we know each other views quite well and don’t need rehash them. The fact we both already voted lets us be able to tell our girls each of our views without getting heated because we have already voted and we don’t need to try to convice the other to vote a different way.

     September 30th, 2008 at 4:55 am

104. Missives From Suburbia says:

     Simply put, I believe every person in this country is better served (and statistics bear me out) when we are all fed, clothed, educated and healthy. In my opinion, the Democrats are more concerned about those social issues than Republicans, and I’m willing to pay more taxes to ensure equal opportunities at the basics of life for everyone. I used to be a Republican, and I understand both sides of most policies very well. I just don’t buy their philosophy anymore.

     Missives From Suburbia´s last blog post..I Cannot Tell a Lie

     September 30th, 2008 at 11:34 am

105. Wisconsin Mommy says:

     Wow – overwhelming response here.

     I guess for me (I’m a big-picture kind of gal)it comes down to big picture philosophy. I ask myself “when was the last time government, ANY government not republican or democratic specifically, did anything that made my life better?” Not anytime that I can recall.

     I tend to believe in the free-market system. I think government needs to get out of my way while I create my own future. If you say you are going to give me something while you are trying to get my vote, I don’t tend to believe you. (Tax cut, yeah right – neither side is going to be giving a tax cut, people)

     Therefore, the idea of growing the government and the hold it has on me concerns me – a lot. Especially if it means taking the word of someone without much of a track record.

     My vote will be going to McCain/Palin.

     Wisconsin Mommy´s last blog post..The Eagles Rock Milwaukee

     September 30th, 2008 at 2:52 pm

106. quin browne says:

     i have no idea.

     for once since i was 18, i have no idea. i joke i’m going to write in harry truman…

     *sigh*

     September 30th, 2008 at 4:04 pm

107. Mom says:

     I guess I would like to think that if McCain-Palin won, McCain would ditch all his handlers and return to the man of integrity we saw before the Republicans eviscerated him in 2000. (and also that he would stay very, very healthy…) The only thing I don’t understand is the POW-MIA stand. I wonder if the people who campaign are ever true pictures of the kind of President they would be. In my experience, not so much. Meanwhile, I am inspired by Hope. I will vote Obama.

     September 30th, 2008 at 7:24 pm

108. Dory says:

     WOW. Wow Wow Wow. I’m so impressed by everyone commenting considerately and politely. No name-calling, no flaming, and lots of facts and suggestions for further research.

     I have been a voting-life long Republican (I’m 35) but I will be voting for the man this time instead of the party. Your thoughtful commenters have already listed my reasons for me, except one. I just have a deep gut instinct that O’Bama is a man with more character and integrity.

     Dory´s last blog post..Maybe Josh Lyman would show up. Brandy has dibs.

     September 30th, 2008 at 7:40 pm

109. Tasses says:

     Christina – you are correct. I wrote & deleted so much of that comment on my iPhone (while traveling emotionally wiped from watching my eldest child marry), that I must have lost the section on factcheck.org. I really appreciate your response to me.

     I saw a post above discussing education which is a really important topic for me (public school teacher). I do not believe that competition will hurt public school education. I believe that it will help it. There are many European countries that use a version of voucher systems and they rank very high globally. Although there are portions of NCLB that stink (like testing non-English speakers), I have to honestly say that in my 15 years in education I have seen nothing improve education accountability more than NCLB. Both candidates support modified versions of NCLB. I once knew several teachers who used movies and worksheets as a daily activities. This is no longer true. If we can get to the point where teaching to the test and one end-all/beat-all test turns into 3 or 4 smaller tests of standard competency, we’ll finally be headed right. AND… I can’t remember an instance when competition hurt productivity. To me, competition just makes the workers try harder.

     Tasses´s last blog post..Disquiet Hope

     September 30th, 2008 at 9:12 pm

110. Margaret says:

     I hate politics so much, I’m unable to tell you anything about my opinion. I get angry thinking about politics, it doesn’t matter which side. I’m angry that I cannot find a neutral objective political information site. I should check all your comments here to see if someone can provide it. I’m way too cynical for this discussion, but I’m going to look through the discussion here for useful resource info!

     Margaret´s last blog post..When Food Gets in the Way

     September 30th, 2008 at 10:14 pm

111. LiteralDan says:

     As others have said, this was great to read through without any landmines of crazed exaggerations designed to antagonize others.

     I am voting for Obama, and the only thing I can think of to add to the preceding that might be helpful to you is a link to this endorsement for Obama from the (traditionally conservative) former editor of the National Review.

     I think one of the best things for this country would be to start accepting the idea that liberal and conservative viewpoints are universal and serve a very useful purpose coexisting in human societies. We can’t do without either one, and shouldn’t try.

     Nothing will get done with each side trying to cut the throat of the other instead of pleading their cases, voting their consciences, and abiding the chips’ falling where they may.

     LiteralDan´s last blog post..Captcha the memories

     October 1st, 2008 at 12:54 am

112. The Scandinavian says:

     As a non-american, I wish I could have some sort of influence on the american elections. Despite the obvious absurdity of such a wish, the election results affect the rest of the world like we saw recently in Madrid, London and Bali. If I could influence someone, somewhere within the US, it would be to tell them what I consider to be a fundemental social truth: Healthy people create more value.

     Healthcare should reign high on the campaign posters this year, considering the current economic climate. Scandinavian economics, largely (still) unaffected by the current US crisis, has always taken a longterm strategic approach. For instance, it is every employers responsibility by law to provide maternity/paternity leave for employees that have been working for the company for more than 6 months. Those families that have the chance to spend time with each other in the first stages of parenthood are less of a burden on their employers and the healthcare system in the long run; healthy happy people have less sickdays, less doctor appointments and require less medication. They are more profitable. They help a nations productivity, thus the economy.

     Investments in education and healthcare will always lead to profit and economic growth. I would recommend a vote for whoever sees education and healthcare as one of many means of getting the economy back on track.

     I wish you all the best, and I want to congratulate you all on a civilzed, educational discourse on subjects that are far too important for us to leave in the hands of populists and cynics.

     Good luck!

     October 1st, 2008 at 4:13 am

113. Christina says:

     Tasses – Oh, thanks so much because I thought I was insane having read it many times! And, I completely understand. Congrats on the wedding! Lordy, I would have been a mess too I read this whole thing the first time on my phone as well while watching my son’s baseball game.

     It’s interesting that you bring up education. I work at a private non-profit university in the accounting department and have for 22 years. I do all the reporting for Title IV funding which are the federal government programs provided to assist students in paying college tuition. Pell grants, Perkins loans etc. Well, in the last several years we’ve had zero Perkins loan funds provided and the Pell awards have been steadily declining. I still remember Bush in one of the debates with Kerry talking about Pell grants and I yelled back at the TV “well then lets SEE the increases!!” which of course never came. The same could be said for NCLB, good program on paper, but very little funding support has been provided to properly see it through.
     One program my university is very strong in is teacher credentialing and training. We participate in the Head Start program and in National Teacher Credentialing programs. Well trained teachers are our goal. Funding to support those has also been reduced over the recent years. The faculty members who run those programs have both mentioned to me how happy they are that Obama has specifically addressed those topics. The Head Start teacher also specializes in pre-k certifications and Obama is the only candidate to talk about supporting that.

     A rambling way of saying that I realized yesterday that where I worked had a rather large impact on how I vote!

     Christina´s last blog post..Boys will be boys

     October 1st, 2008 at 7:12 am

114. gin says:

     Fortunately, I still get to vote while residing in the Great White North! Hubby on the other hand does not, so the conversations in my house are vastly different from most American Voters in that one side actually GETS to vote.

     Initially, I was going to write in Mickey Mouse, but realized that the vote might go to it’s usual un-recognized space. So I was rallying about for Al Gore. Then He spoke for Obama and I just was at a total loss and again reconsidered the man with the overwhelmingly large ears and high-pitched voice.

     I considered going Green, because I’m more of an independent kind of gal. The kind of gal that looks at the issues at hand and decides from there instead of proclaiming one party over the other. And right now, one of the pressing issues are truly leaning towards the environment. Being up here in Canada, we see it so much more than the neighbors to the south.

     When I heard that Palin was being nominated for VP and her position on the Alaskan drilling (which would take over 10 years before any oil would actually enter the market) and the damage that would ensue to the environment, my position became even clearer. Did you know that she tried to have changed the Endangered listing of Polar Bears?

     Then I heard that Obama agreed in the offshore drilling. Lesser of two evils here? Which drilling would we rather have?

     Obama’s plans are more down to Earth than McCain’s ever have been. His touch with reality in naming how many houses he has is more in line with the rest of the middle class (unlike McCain who doesn’t even know how many homes he has and needs to ask his staff).

     The fact that McCain thinks the $700 billion dollar bailout should go to the companies over the people is more of a turnoff than anything else. That money should go to the people. The people should be voting on this, not the government. The companies out there should forgoing their lost interest and just ask for the principle in aid. That should be their loss. And why have WE THE PEOPLE OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICAN not seen the plan?

     The fact that Obama has chosen a VP that has more merit and experience should be more important than if Biden can look good in a bikini. Obama asked himself: Who do I want to be sitting with when it comes down to making a decision I can trust? Who do I want to be sitting with who’s values I can trust? And Obama told everyone what he asked himself in choosing a VP.

     The fact that McCain can’t give an honest answer to why he chose Palin as a VP is baffling. McCain asked himself when choosing his VP: Who can help my ratings go up? Who looks good, “doesn’t have experience (and he said this about her when he compared her to Clinton)” and can give me the sheen I don’t have?

     gin´s last blog post..Sorry to all of you still reading…

     October 1st, 2008 at 8:03 am

115. chanda says:

     I am casting my vote this year for Obama. I don’t know much about foreign policy or economic theory, so it’s tough for me to speak intelligently on those subjects. I vote with my gut, and I vote based on how close a candidates core beleifs follow my own. Obama is pro- choice, he supports the civil rights of gay and lesbian folks, and he wants to end the war in Iraq. He strikes me as level headed and very very bright. He gives me hope where very few have.

     chanda´s last blog post..I went all the way to Rhode Island …..

     October 1st, 2008 at 9:15 am

116. Alison says:

     This will be my first presidential election to vote in. In fact, I am not yet 20, and can only offer a college student’s perspective.
     At first, my peers’ infatuation with Obama made me leery. I was concerned. “Who is this guy? Where did he come from? JUNIOR senator?” I remember McCain from 8 years ago, and when he ran again, I was interested.

     But, when it comes down to it, I agree with Obama more often than I agree with McCain. I certainly didn’t hop on the bandwagon without research.
     Reasons:
     War. Some people believe we NEED a president who has been in the military. But I feel a president who is willing to listen to his Joint Chiefs of Staff is more important. I think Obama would do that, and I’m not sure McCain would necessarily take the time and get all the facts from his Chiefs. McCain is known to have a temper and a hot head [http://www.courant.com/news/opinion/editorials/hc-will0925.artsep25,0,4332554.story]. Also, Iraq certainly needs to be resolved as soon as possible.
     Science. As a university student with a science major, I hear/read about research that was cut back or cut entirely, usually because of the Bush admin. Taking away America’s spot at the forefront of scientific advancement will only harm us in the long run, economically and scientifically [http://www.foreignaffairs.org/20041101facomment83601/adam-segal/is-america-losing-its-edge.html, http://www.signonsandiego.com/news/science/20080731-9999-1c31hansen.html. And Palin? Seriously, creationism? She has said "Teach both. Don't be afraid of information." [http://ap.google.com/article/ALeqM5gV5jvU52RD3WBflzbmSu5l6zwOqAD92V3VQG0]
     I’m sorry. The Bible has no place in a science classroom. Evolution is based on data gathered over many years. Yes, it’s “just a theory” as many pro-creationists like to point out. Unfortunately, they seem not to know the definition of scientific theory. “…a theory is a testable model of the manner of interaction of a set of natural phenomena, capable of predicting future occurrences or observations of the same kind, and capable of being tested through experiment or otherwise verified through empirical observation [Wikipedia].” In that capacity, the Bible is not only NOT a theory, it’s not even a testable hypothesis. Religion DOES have a place in the classroom: world history, American history, philosophy, psychology, sociology, and of course religious studies. Just not in biology.
     Gay Rights and Race. Going to elementary school in the 90’s, my school taught us “tolerance” and “acceptance,” along with “courage” and “compassion” as “words of the month.” I went to public school, not some particularly liberal private school. In public middle school, we had similar words, and we also discussed civil rights in detail in social science classes. In public high school, we were encouraged to follow politics, vote when we got the chance, and make decisions based on our personal beliefs. This was just regular old public school. It’s no wonder then that my generation does support gay rights much more than previous generations and that Obama’s race is generally not an issue for us. [http://www.pewtrusts.org/news_room_detail.aspx?id=16224, http://www.dispatchpolitics.com/live/content/national_world/stories/2008/06/06/young.html?sid=101 Aren’t those good things?

     When it comes down to it, elections are somewhat of a gamble. Yes, we have checks and balances in government, but we won’t really know what type of president he is until he has been president for a while, whether it’s Obama or McCain. I’ll take my chances on hope and change.

     October 1st, 2008 at 10:14 am

117. Deb@BirdOnAWire says:

     Well Maggie,
     Damnit I’m in the same boat. Nothing that either candidate has said, or done has shown me what I consider to be the “right” stuff. There’s been a lot of showboating, finger pointing and lots of “food fights” its been looking like 5 year olds fighting over a swing. Frankly right now, I’m trying to convince myself that my vote would matter.
     Far too many people are enamored with the populist theories that the democrats have flung out for mass consumption. I don’t want a rockstar for a president, I want a president. When a person seriously sits and studies what has gone on this past year, in the election cycle, it gives pause. Right now, I’m on the fence. I don’t want our goverment to become any “larger”, I don’t see that we need all the “give away” programs we have. Taxes? eh pay em and die ya gotta. I frankly think a flat tax would be better. The economy stupid? It can be fixed without this $700 billion dollar bail out, but congress is dead headed on fixing it that way. Don’t get it. So, here I am. still waiting. Still hoping and still praying that something, anything will give me good reason to vote either way

     October 1st, 2008 at 10:34 am

118. Meg says:

     McCain supports a war that never should have been. He says he’s for small government, yet he believes that small government should interfere with personal choices regarding marriage between two adults and a woman’s body.

     Plus, if he does become president, Warren Beatty would have to play him in the movie version.

     Meg´s last blog post..Famous People, Foreigners & Foreign Films

     October 1st, 2008 at 1:51 pm

119. Elaine Vigneault says:

     I am voting for Obama because I believe he better represents me and my values. (By the way, I’m a white woman.)

     Elaine Vigneault´s last blog post..Caring human beings are uncomfortable with death, period.

     October 1st, 2008 at 4:11 pm

120. maggie, dammit says:

     I just wanted to thank you all one more time. I haven’t seen responses this civil, or this thought-provoking, on any other political post. You have each given me a lot to think about, and I know you’ve reached my husband, too. Thank you for putting this much effort and care into a simple blogging request. I am in awe of you all, and you should be, too.

     October 1st, 2008 at 4:32 pm

121. A Free Man says:

     Jesus, you’ve got some remarkably civil readers. I can’t say anything about this election anymore because I’m just worn out. Glad to see some people aren’t. I think that you’ll (we’ll) need more than just a new president, though, I know that.

     A Free Man´s last blog post..A new parade of faith and sparks

     October 2nd, 2008 at 5:50 am

122. Jessica says:

     I think it is great that so many people were able to respond to your post in such a civil manner. This must be one of the few blogs I’ve run into that have had such respect..

     Although he is not on the ballot, I plan to write in for Ron Paul. I am against McCain and Obama for several reasons, ones that would take pages upon pages to explain.

     My reasons for wanting Ron Paul in office are because of his dedication towards the American people. He is the ONLY man in Congress to shoot something down that will harm the American people (financially, ethically, etc). He is one of the few men that believe in the Constitution and Bill of Rights as something more than just a plain ‘ol piece of paper that we can ignore. He truly is an amazing person and would make a wonderful President if given the chance. He may not be on the ballot, but if enough people wrote him- he could become the next President of the United States.

     I am not saying you should vote for Ron Paul, although I think he is worth the while. I just hope that before you make the decision to put your trust into McCain or Obama, you do a little research about Ron Paul. You may find that everything he stands for is what you believe in as well.

     Jessica´s last blog post..Oh, October.

     October 2nd, 2008 at 8:46 pm

123. Kelly says:

     I find the viewpoints of the opposing side in favor of Obama really compelling. I’m voting for Obama, for a host of reasons, including my instincts that the John McCain of today in no way resembles the John McCain of 2000.

     Douglas Kmiec
     Charles Krauthammer
     Wick Allison, former editor of the National Review

     These names are a few of the conservatives who have, if not outright endorsing Obama, having given their viewpoint on why he’d make a better commander-in-chief.

     My .02.

     October 4th, 2008 at 11:14 am

124. Jo says:

     Please don’t vote Republican! Look where it’s got us all!
     Don’t vote for short term gain – America has responsibilites far outside itsef. It needs to see the bigger picture, within and without the country.

     All this talk of ‘freedom’ means very little. It’s whitewash, I think. An emotive curtain to pull over the eyes of people who don’t move out of their own locale much.

     No more war. No more destruction of the envirnoment in the name of American Economy. Far less sacrifice of the poor.

     Okay, these are emotive and uninformed pleas.
     But I think the world would be a very different place if Bush hadn’t worked his way into power.

     Jo´s last blog post..bits

     October 4th, 2008 at 4:03 pm

125. Duck says:

     I’m voting for Obama, so I can have the same basic equal rights as everyone else.

     The most important relationship of my life ended because we don’t have the same equal immigration rights as everyone else. Look up Love Without Borders and read how devastating it is to be torn away from your partner.

     Because of a tipped uterus, I may not be able to conceive. Without equal adoption rights, my partner and I may go childless. Imagine how millions of us feel knowing the law says we cannot be parents.

     And more than this, I’m voting for Obama because he represents the higher consciousness that is manifesting in our human experience. The collective conscious is evolving. The world is changing, and he could be part of that positive change for good.

     (And by the way Maggie, the ‘you’ is the general you. Like the Royal We )

     Duck´s last blog post..Halloween 2.1

     October 6th, 2008 at 3:14 pm

126. Have the T-shirt says:

     I will be voting for Obama in November.

     My reasons?

     Well, it started four years ago when Obama gave the keynote address at the DNC. Who was this guy? Where did he come from? I found him to be so intelligent, so in touch with the problems we face, but I’d never heard of him before.

     Four years ago I began researching him and paying attention to him. I read his books. I followed his career. And I was thrilled when he threw his hat in the ring.

     I am a registered Republican who has never been inspired by politics. For the first time ever I’ve contributed to a political campaign. For the first time ever I’ve volunteered and worked for a candidate.

     Obama inspires me and gives me hope.

     But I wouldn’t cast my vote for him if I didn’t believe that his policies would take us in the direction I want to see us go. We are a country faced with a mess of problems. I believe we stand a better chance of moving forward under an Obama/Biden leadership.

     Have the T-shirt´s last blog post..Barack Comes to Indy

     October 7th, 2008 at 10:48 am

127. trey says:

     please read this to completion. this is ONE reason i wont vote for obama. i left out ALOT of details (case numbers, judges names, etc.) in regards to time. i respect your time and mine, we are all very busy!

     obama has done a very good job of white-washing american minds with promises of change, change and more change. in reality that wont happen. he is good speaker and that is all. i’ll cite the most recent crisis with a fact many of you have not cared to make yourself aware of: the Obama backed (ACORN) sued to make banks provide loans to recipients who were not able to repay. In these lawsuits, ACORN (the Association of Community Organizations for Reform Now) abused the law by forcing banks to make hundreds of millions of dollars in “subprime” loans to often uncreditworthy poor and minority customers.
     (ACORN) makes a bogus claim of Redlining, (denying poor people loans because of their ethnic heritage). filed tons of these lawsuits and ALL of them allege racism, this was a strong arm tactic that was backed by bill clinton and janet reno to garner votes for the then upcoming elections. these loans were then sold off to the government backed fannie and freddie. you know the rest… or do you? did you know that the top three men at fannie mae and are now PAID advisors on the staff of obama? these three men, franklin raines (former ceo of fannie mae), tim howard (former cfo of fannie mae) and jim johnson (former lehman brothers AND fannie mae exec) between them had over 288 million in “golden parachute” money! whay did obama recently hire them after the companies that they “ran” collapsed? i cant think of a single reason.
     now this is the most recent reason that i wont vote for obama. there are many, many others. this one is just fresh on everyones minds so i cite it as an example. thank you for your time.

     Trey Walker

     October 7th, 2008 at 12:47 pm

128. Whit says:

     You’ve got some thoughtful readers. I guess I should be honored that you actually read my political post- although I can’t help but think I may have tricked you (and others) with the Sedaris nod in the title.

     That being the case, you know where I stand and I don’t know that I could add anything to the conversation.

     BTW, my wife doesn’t vote at all for religious reasons- I think I’d be happier having my spouse vote against me than agree but not supply the needed support.

     Whit´s last blog post..Field Dress Your Moose in Corduroy and Denim

     October 7th, 2008 at 9:40 pm

129. Alison Veres says:

     I have been in anquish over this election. What makes it particularly difficult for me is that I like to see the good in people (even politicians) This is a great liability at election time. For most other times, it serves me pretty well. I have tried to give Obama and McCain a fair and equal treatment. Here’s what I ended up with: Obama’s academic pedigree is outstanding and he is clearly a very intelligent person. His accomplishments are impressive. McCain is clearly the more qualified candidate in terms of government experience. I don’t think anyone can argue that. In reviewing McCain’s record, I believe that he has served his country generously and honorably, and has been an involved and effective member of Congress for many years. I believe he is quite justified in being proud of his accomplishments and his contributions. The dilemma I face in trying to make my decision is comparing Obama’s pretty slim experience in the senate with McCains long and well-established record. My gut feeling says it’s not Obama’s time yet. He hasn’t paid his dues. BUT, my gut also says McCain has had a long and successful career, and that career needs to end now. I thank him for his service. I believe that Obama has the ability to do the job. Actually, I wish it had been McCain and not Bush who won (if Bush did actually “win”) the election in 2000. Maybe that was McCain’s time. But 2008 is not. And, I have to echo the sentiments of many who believe that with a man as old as McCain, and a VP as inexperienced as Sarah Palin, it’s just not safe. And sometimes, because I like to think the best of people, I like to imagine that John McCain gets elected, drops dead in the first year in office, and Sarah Palin steps up and does an amazing job as president. But that’s beyond even Hollywood.
     Okay Mr. Obama. I’m going to take a chance on you. Don’t disappoint me now.

     October 9th, 2008 at 6:53 pm

130. Okay, Fine, Dammit » Me Talk Pretty About Heather — plus a giveaway! says:

     [...] Thank you for David Sedaris and coffee and birds and earrings and surprises and love. Thank you for respectfully expressing your political persuasions just because I ask. Thank you for bravely confessing your own stories of [...]

     October 12th, 2008 at 8:37 am

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