Battleground Update: The Red States Get Redder, The Blue States Get Purpler

re: Battleground Update: The Red States Get Redder, The Blue States Get Purpler

SJ71 — Mon, 15 Sep 2008 16:58:53 GMT

No surprises here! Now that more people are paying attention to the presidential campaign, and more of the conservative base is feeling energized due to the Palin pick, the map is playing out pretty much as it should. Watch for McCain/Palin to spend generously in Pennsylvania, Ohio, Florida, Minnesota, and Colorado. It seems pretty clear that their road to the White House will go through those 5 swing states. And it's quite interesting to see Obama playing defense for the first time since announcing his candidacy.

re: Battleground Update: The Red States Get Redder, The Blue States Get Purpler

not.Brit — Mon, 15 Sep 2008 17:10:50 GMT

Why Lie?

What I absolutely can't figure out is why the McCain/Palin campaign has devolved into a series of lies and distortions. What are they trying to accomplish? What do they gain? If Sarah Palin truly was a game-changer who brings the base, then why lie about Obama's policies? If her inexperience actually doesn't matter, why lie about her credentials? Why lie about the Bridge to Nowhere? Why lie about visiting Iraq? Why lie about... anything?

I'm not confused because I'm naive about political distortions (which have a long and glorious history), I honestly can't imagine what advantage the McCain camp discusses when they write these speeches, plan these ads, and prepare their candidates.

re: Battleground Update: The Red States Get Redder, The Blue States Get Purpler

bayravin — Mon, 15 Sep 2008 17:27:30 GMT

Voters in Michgan, Pennsylvania, Ohio and Indiana better understand that 4, 8, 12 or 16 more years of Republican 'Trickle down' theory is going to plunge our country in a long-term slump that we may not recover any time soon. I am afraid for my country now

re: Battleground Update: The Red States Get Redder, The Blue States Get Purpler

orion12 — Mon, 15 Sep 2008 17:32:23 GMT

Well one thing is certain. If McCain wins it will be because lies and misleadings. If Obama wins it will be bacause he got to make people listen. But anything can happen.

re: Battleground Update: The Red States Get Redder, The Blue States Get Purpler

summer4077 — Mon, 15 Sep 2008 17:52:46 GMT

Bayravin, I live in Ohio and it's not looking good. Unfortunately there are a lot of people here who don't think for themselves--they just believe every attack ad on TV. Obama needs to hit back hard. Not saying he needs to resort to the scummy tactics of McCain, but he needs to call those ads what they are--LIES!

re: Battleground Update: The Red States Get Redder, The Blue States Get Purpler

Toughchick — Mon, 15 Sep 2008 17:54:26 GMT

alright who is doing these damn polls and why have average people like myself never been apart of them? it's a crock we'll see what happens on NOV 4th!

re: Battleground Update: The Red States Get Redder, The Blue States Get Purpler

Rocky2001 — Mon, 15 Sep 2008 17:56:36 GMT

I just wanted to thank you for pointing out all of the lies in this campaign. On the other hand it's laughable how you point out one canidates lies and ignore the others. Opinions are like A-Holes, eveyrbody has one...LOL!!

re: Battleground Update: The Red States Get Redder, The Blue States Get Purpler

junkmail7 — Mon, 15 Sep 2008 18:10:13 GMT

I personally think people are realizing that most of the media is in the tank with Obama. Every where a person turns, from newspapers, to cable news outlets, to commentators to talks shows...they are hailing Obama and attacking McCain.

Once Obama won the nomination they have pulled out all plugs and the media doesn't care how biased they appear anymore. Now that McCain has pulled ahead they are simply printing the daily talking points form the Obama camp. It's so obvious as they all omit the same information.

I will give you a recent example...there were many articles claiming how Karl Rove stated he felt McCain went too far in his latest ads. This was picked up by the Obama camp and sent to every major newspaper, magazine and blog. They all printed the email as though it was a press release and not one single one....Not Newsweek, not NYT's , Not Washington Post, Not Time, Not Bloomberg, Not anyone bothered to also include the quote where Karl Rove, at the same time stated that Obama knew exactly what he was doing when he used the "lipstick on a pig" remark.

People see this and the few percentage points of undecided are getting turned off about it. They are not stupid, and are self thinking individuals that do not allow themselves to be spoon fed by a media that has a track record of printing biased half truths.

Like when the media say McCain is lying about Obama wanting to teach kindergardener's sex education...the media went wild attacking McCain as a liar. Well I looked up the bill McCain was talking about and it very clearly allows the schools to teach sex education to kindergardners. So the only ones lying is Obama nad the media.

The media reports half truths and spins it in favor of Obama at least in a ratio of 20 to1. Maybe the media thinks people are too stupid to recognize this. But I got news for you...as people lose more and more respect for journalists, they will also lose respect for the object of their adoration.

When Obama loses....it will be primarily the fault of the media. Not that I care as I have lost all respect for the media as a whole, but am keeping my eyes open for those that stand out above the diatribe and simply report the facts, and let me decide what the truth is.

Mr. Romano, this is an objective article and it represents a change from your usual diatribe. In the future...delete Obama's emails and simply print the whole truth and you will be the better person for it. People are reading and taking names.

re: Battleground Update: The Red States Get Redder, The Blue States Get Purpler

vstillwell — Mon, 15 Sep 2008 18:19:14 GMT

Hey, vote for McPalin so we can have more recessions, bank failures, and a few more wars. Gotta keep things interesting.

re: Battleground Update: The Red States Get Redder, The Blue States Get Purpler

troggie87 — Mon, 15 Sep 2008 18:24:07 GMT

Meh, I still sincerely doubt these polls. I don't know what Minnesota these guys polled, but the one I grew up in and live in currently is going to swing hard blue. This is a very DFL (democratic farm labor party, what the democrats call themselves here) oriented state, and I would be shocked beyond belief if it wasn't solidly Obama come November. McCain has invited deep hatred from many of the farmers here, as his policies are solidly anti-agriculture. And the Twin cities and Duluth are traditionally very blue; actually I think we are one of the longest running, if not THE longest running, blue state. I think these polls are skewed specifically to feed the horse race mentality of the news media, and come election time Obama will win in a landslide (provided he match the Republican grassroots effort; that is the key to their victory). Just my 2 cents.

re: Battleground Update: The Red States Get Redder, The Blue States Get Purpler

JulietteVaucaireEsq — Mon, 15 Sep 2008 18:24:48 GMT

When Mr. Obama bypassed Hillary he sealed his fate. I am a life-long democrat, feminist and Hillary supporter who will not support Mr. Obama in any way or manner. I take solace by contemplating the possibility that in a few years a woman (Governor Sarah Palin) might become the first woman president of the United States. While I don't share her social views I feel that it is more important that a woman reaches that top position sooner rather than later.

Juliette Vaucaire, Esq.

re: Battleground Update: The Red States Get Redder, The Blue States Get Purpler

careerdaytrader — Mon, 15 Sep 2008 18:28:17 GMT

Hey Moron Andrew you are using LAST WEEK'S map!

This guy is SOOOOO Biased toward Obama he doesn't even use TODAY'S numbers!

Mc Cain 270 vs Obama 268

Mc Cain picked up New Mexico in the polls on Sept 8 you MORON Andrew!

re: Battleground Update: The Red States Get Redder, The Blue States Get Purpler

sparkling — Mon, 15 Sep 2008 18:29:19 GMT

Sarah Palin and John McCain will be elected to the White House in Nov.

In 2016 Palin will be President.

Signed, Conservative Woman, College Graduate

re: Battleground Update: The Red States Get Redder, The Blue States Get Purpler

avollmer89 — Mon, 15 Sep 2008 18:33:31 GMT

Just because the Minnesota you grew up in may seem extremely Democratic, doesn't mean the rest of the state is. Americans have been isolating themselves more than ever, becoming more and more likely to live by people they agree with in all parts of life, especially politically.

That being said, I do think these polls are skewed--most are probably done using the "Likely Voter" method, meaning people considered more likely to vote (based on things like age and past voting history) get more weight in the outcome of the poll. Given Obama's success with youth voters (who are generally considered unlikely to vote, although this election could destroy that assumption) and registering new voters, there's a good chance these polls all are slightly tilted towards McCain. However, they wouldn't explain the bump received from the convention, just overall.

re: Battleground Update: The Red States Get Redder, The Blue States Get Purpler

vstillwell — Mon, 15 Sep 2008 18:36:42 GMT

Funny how John McCain is nothing without Palin. It's even funnier thinking miss Juco/beauty queen will be our president. Can't you Republican blowhards actually pick candidates who would actually be good leaders. No, you give us G Dub and Palin.

Signed, Independent guy, College Graduate

re: Battleground Update: The Red States Get Redder, The Blue States Get Purpler

Rametyn — Mon, 15 Sep 2008 18:43:54 GMT

There are a lot of stats that are off right now with a barrage of Dem biased reports on the numbers. Do they think people are stupid? They don't even report the facts anymore. You're right daytrader--this is an old map--even though the caption says "current" clear politics.

He should have his journalist position revoked. The polls have had NM going to Mccain for a week now--by five points--and yet, here, he still has it blue.

Truth is, a lot has changed.Even in New York--yes, New York, one of top twp most liberal places in the country--now show Mccain has cut Obama's lead there from 14 points to just 5. He has gained ground everywhere, and to counter this the liberals are making arguments that nothing has changed using old maps and older data.

How sad.

You work for Newsweek.

The least you could do is not be so transparantly full of BS. It's like MSNBC reporting so far left--willing to sacrifice the viewers of the network in lieu of making a point. Wake up. The reason entities like US weekly, MSNBC, and Newsweek are losing their following is because people are tired of inaccurate reporting being substituted by fact just in hopes of convincing one reader that the crap is true.

What ever happened to journalistic integrity?

It's like, the National Enquirer can now be considered as legitimate news, because they are no longer as full of *** as everyone else is.

LOL

re: Battleground Update: The Red States Get Redder, The Blue States Get Purpler

Rametyn — Mon, 15 Sep 2008 18:44:45 GMT

He should have his journalist position revoked. The polls have had NM going to Mccain for a week now--by five points--and yet, here, he still has it blue.

How sad.

You work for Newsweek.

What ever happened to journalistic integrity?

It's like, the National Enquirer can now be considered as legitimate news, because they are no longer as full of *** as everyone else is.

LOL

re: Battleground Update: The Red States Get Redder, The Blue States Get Purpler

avollmer89 — Mon, 15 Sep 2008 18:52:29 GMT

Rametyn, did you even read the article? The entire purpose of the article, very easily discerned by the title itself, is that things are shifting in McCain's favor. Instead of just repeating the GOP's rather exaggerated claims of media bias (it's there just not as much as they say), why don't you try reading the actual article and finding a relatively well done story?

re: Battleground Update: The Red States Get Redder, The Blue States Get Purpler

Rametyn — Mon, 15 Sep 2008 18:52:56 GMT

I like how everyone posting thinks that posting on the fact that they were college grads actally gives them more credibility.

Anyone can go and sit in class for four years, learn nothing, and get a degree. Believe me, I was actually stunned by the moron in some of my classes--who, because they squeaked by on dire skirts of stupidity, were actually going to be given a higher merit in life than some of the people I knew who never went to college, and were some of the smartest people I knew.

That little fact is one of the downfalls of our country. The asenine assumption that everyone who goes to college is smart, or worth giving responsibility too.

For all you who believe that crap, think about this: I am a Republican so I'm not cracking on him, but remember--even George W had a degree.

So please, stop acting like it makes you more intelligent. It demeans the very construct of acedemics.

re: Battleground Update: The Red States Get Redder, The Blue States Get Purpler

Iota1963 — Mon, 15 Sep 2008 18:58:05 GMT

Considering Republican Presidents have appointed 7 of the current 9 Supreme Court Justices, 5 of the last 7 Presidents have been Republicans, and until 2 years ago, controlled both houses of congress, I understand why Michigan voters feel the Republican Party represents their interests. With all the prosperity the Republicans have brought to Michigan and Ohio for that matter, I don't blame them for sticking with what they see as the party that represents their values. Personally, I drive an overpriced German car and made just under 100K in salary last year. Even though my heart is with the Democrats, I do better financially under the Republicans (liberal east coast "elitist" with a Masters Degree). I offer a heart-felt good luck to the citizens who continue to believe the Republicans have their interest at heart. In spite of all evidence to the contrary, you continue to vote Republican under a belief they share your values. I guess when the last factory has closed, home repossessed, bank failed,...., no I take that back. You will still vote Republican

re: Battleground Update: The Red States Get Redder, The Blue States Get Purpler

ethel08 — Mon, 15 Sep 2008 19:04:38 GMT

I wish you analysts would start covering the real question: why do we even still have the very outmoded electoral college? Sure, the current system is in the two parties' best interests, but not the American peoples'. It does not reflect the more transient nature of modern life or the democratic (with a small "d") principles this country now values.

We heard all about this "one person, one vote" stuff in the primaries, but my vote has never once been counted toward the person I voted for in a presidential election. In fact, it's always gone to his opponent.

Doesn't anyone else find it ridiculous that the same states--Ohio, Florida, Michigan, and sometimes Pennsylvania--decide who are president will be, while the rest of us are bench-warmers?

re: Battleground Update: The Red States Get Redder, The Blue States Get Purpler

ethel08 — Mon, 15 Sep 2008 19:08:50 GMT

So, Juliet, any woman is better than no woman at all--even if she shares none of your views? Even if she further puts our country in the ground?

I suspect that this is one of those troll comments.

re: Battleground Update: The Red States Get Redder, The Blue States Get Purpler

avollmer89 — Mon, 15 Sep 2008 19:16:52 GMT

I totally agree with you ethelo8. It's similar to the problem faced by the primary system--Iowa and New Hampshire, while not definitively choosing the candidates, have a disproportionate say in who we are choosing between, often narrowing down the field before anyone else even knows who these people are.

However, the greater problem with the electoral college is not merely that a handful of states decide the election. The problem is that one's vote isn't necessarily counted towards the candidate one votes for, as you pointed out. For instance, how many Republican voters do you think are discouraged from even bothering to vote in a place like DC, which is consistently a blue state? Or Democratic voters who don't vote in Texas because it is so red?

re: Battleground Update: The Red States Get Redder, The Blue States Get Purpler

jshane2002 — Mon, 15 Sep 2008 19:21:17 GMT

It's no surprise seeing this, given the absurdity of the political attack adds we have to watch and the lipstick and pitbull vs pig debates we've been reduced to. Talk about lowest common denominator. Image being a grade school age child today and seeing what passes for debate topics.

No wonder the satire on SNL and Youtube is so biting - it's sad because we need the comic relief

Here's a new hilarious take on these adds --

http://www.politico.com/blogs/anneschroeder/0908/The_selfdescribed_Swiftboaters_of_this_election.html#comments

re: Battleground Update: The Red States Get Redder, The Blue States Get Purpler

Jack 8590 — Mon, 15 Sep 2008 19:29:43 GMT

I was an Obama guy, but I am beginning to agree with the Republicans. Why on earth should I care about the rest of the country? I've got mine - 6 fig salary, two great kids. I have my "east coast degree" and my eldest went to an elite school. Next year my youngest will also. I got a nice Bavarian car....a great job....the economy effects me very little. In fact, life has been pretty darn good to me. I'll retire happy and with plenty of money. So who gives a rat's "you know what" about everyone else?

Why should I care whether my fellow citizens have health care, can afford gas, or if they are in foreclosure? Why should I worry about the anyone dying in Iraq, as long as they don't take my kid - it's someone else's problem. Just keep the oil flowing. Beaches for vacation? If you drill and it gets messy - I'll just go to my mountain house instead. Why worry about torturing other country's citizens? Why worry about the erosion of civil liberties? Why worry about teaching creationism in our schools? Why worry about Assistant's to the VP, the attorney general, and White House counsel lying to the public? It doesn't change a thing for me - just keep the taxes down. And instead of bailing out my neighbor - be sure to bail out mismanaged companies that are so poorly run that the government has to stop in to keep the economy afloat. Who needs regulations; let alone enforce them? And forget gun laws - I am not going anywhere near a part of the city where I could get shot - no sir....let them kill themselves - I still got mine LOL. Really, I don't have a care in the world - all is good. For goodness sakes, don't change anything!

Darn - whenever I try to convinve myself that I should vote Rebublican my conscience gets in the way. Truly, I sit back and wonder......what would Jesus do?

re: Battleground Update: The Red States Get Redder, The Blue States Get Purpler

Redstate Patriot — Mon, 15 Sep 2008 19:44:51 GMT

Jack: You bring up some good points, but do you really expect people to believe you "care about their kids"? I for one don't care about your kids and you don't care about mine. Obama doesn't care about them and neither does McCain. I personally just want government to get the hell out of my way so I can do what I need in order to succeed. Like Mr. Obama, I grew up the child of a single mom. Unlike him I worked my way through college then joined the military to serve my country. I now have my master's degree which I earned while working full time (married and with kids). Obama is lying about tax cuts and he knows it. Seeing as how 50% of Americans don't pay any federal tax it is impossible to give 95% a tax cut. Anyway, I digress. I just feel McCain is the right man for the job.

re: Battleground Update: The Red States Get Redder, The Blue States Get Purpler

Jack 8590 — Mon, 15 Sep 2008 19:59:24 GMT

Hi Redstate -

If the philosophy is neither one is going to truly change anything so vote for the one that you think will do the most for you, then no thank you. Somewhere in the bible it says somthing about how we treat the least of us is how we treat God. If we are truly a God loving nation, would we not pay attention to those less fortunate?

Look, I really do have mine - I am content. But I am troubled by our place in the world - and the lack of respect we now have. I am worried about our economy and that while we debate globalization, Brazil, Russia, India, and China are feasting on globalization. I am worried about company execuatives that are so inept that they have run Bear Stearns, Fainnie and Freddie Mae, Merrill Lynch, and Lehman Brothers out of business. I am fearful of an unregulated society where these companies run amok and oil traders determine what my pump cost is.

Go read Ben Stein's (Sunday NYT) essay in the biz section. There's a conservative point of view that is calling not just for more regulation, but enforced regulation. Why is it not enforced - because everyone was too busy worrying about Gonzales and his lying friends.

I don;t know Redstate - I want to vote in my own, personal, selfish best interest.....but I just can't bring myself to do it.

re: Battleground Update: The Red States Get Redder, The Blue States Get Purpler

Opinionated1 — Mon, 15 Sep 2008 20:04:01 GMT

Juliet, I too am a big big big Hillary supporter. And although it hurts me that Obama did not choose Clinton as his running mate, almost to the point of revolution, I can not turn my back on what the democratic party stands for. Mrs. Palin is NO Mrs. Clinton, and if you think for one minute that she is going to do a turn coat on the Republican way of thinking. Think again. No I don't earn 6 figures, and I don't even have a college degree. But I know that during these past eight years of George W. Bush the country has declined quite a bit, our way of living has declined. In stature and honor around the world there has been a decline, financially we are being overtaken by foreign countries that hate our guts, we live in constant fear from flying, traveling abroad. If you think that Sarah Palin and John McCain are going to change any of this, you are mistaken. Don't be foolish, my dear. I understand how you feel, but the reality of it is.....Clinton is not just any old woman, she represents US, not just the American woman, but the American people. So you are doing her an injustice by voting for any other woman. Palin does not have the expertise, the fire, the passion, the know-how of Senator Hillary Rodham Clinton, and I, myself, would in NO WAY vote for the Republican ticket on the basis of gender, Hillary is more than gender she is a winner.

re: Battleground Update: The Red States Get Redder, The Blue States Get Purpler

Jack 8590 — Mon, 15 Sep 2008 20:07:05 GMT

And don;t get me started on taxes. My first 10 years out of college were spent as a tax accountant (I am a CPA and worjed at Arthur Andersen - LOL - ironic, eh?) and I will tell you two things - (1) the tax code was written with rich people in mind and (2) corporations don't pay taxes; people do.

I was able to find dozens of ways to save tax money for those that (a) had money and (b) were willing to spend $400 per hour to get our partner's advice. Ask Warren Buffett - his rate is lower than his secretary's rate because the law benefits the rich. Why is this so? Go ask your lobbiest.

We should eliminate the tax on corporations because they only pass it through as an expense to consumers. Eventually we all pay the tax for General Electric. They are simply a conduit.

Anyway......

re: Battleground Update: The Red States Get Redder, The Blue States Get Purpler

Jack 8590 — Mon, 15 Sep 2008 20:14:12 GMT

Hey Opinionated -

I love Hillary Clinton too! I wish she had won, and I wish Obama had chosen her.

Sarah Palin is the anthesis of Hillary Clinton. Anyone who believes otherwise is not paying attention.

re: Battleground Update: The Red States Get Redder, The Blue States Get Purpler

MilesTrane21 — Mon, 15 Sep 2008 22:16:38 GMT

I always love a good breakdown of the electoral map. Thanks Romano.

re: Battleground Update: The Red States Get Redder, The Blue States Get Purpler

TheVigil — Mon, 15 Sep 2008 22:16:48 GMT

I really wish people would vote for politicians based on policy and not backstory.

It really seems like everyone is infatuated with Sarah Palin...but for me, as soon as she started talking foreign policy, I knew I absolutely didn't want her near the White House. The Bush Doctrine is the single worst foreign policy blunder of the last 200 years of American thinking, and she seems to have hopped right on board with it. Not only that, but she's talked about the possibility of war with Russia being on the table over the minor regional disputes in that area of the world. Russia! This is a MAJOR world power with a massive arsenal of nuclear weaponry. We can't even dig ourselves out of the financial hole that is Iraq, which is a failed colonial state that hardly even has a national identity at all. Our military spending needs serious reform and an end to mercenaries - but I haven't heard Sarah Palin say anything about that.

The Bush doctrine is founded on self-righteousness, an attitude of haughty superiority, and a certainty in the "American way of life" which is so infatuated with itself that it can't see anything outside of that clearly - national security threats included. It looks inward at supposed moral superiorty - not outward at the threat landscape. And it's ruinous to American prosperity. It needs to be laid to rest.

That's why I support Obama/Biden 2008...

re: Battleground Update: The Red States Get Redder, The Blue States Get Purpler

mrzoid — Mon, 15 Sep 2008 22:55:47 GMT

Yak yak yak yak yak; thats all this crap is until we get to the debates. Until the two men have to stand toe to toe and answer point counter-point, than ts all just scripted busy work. Palin and Bidens' debate should be such a freaking after thought; its just a guy who have a propensity to place his foot in his mouth, and a lady who has a propensity to unload other peoples scripted one-liners from her mouth. Dont think for a second that McCain is going to get away with the lowering of the bar like Bush did in 2000 and 2004, not with the economy plunging like it is. In the end, people will look at their bottom lines financially, and blame the guys in charge recently; and the 26yr DC insider is going to have problems avoiding his 1/4 century career choice.

re: Battleground Update: The Red States Get Redder, The Blue States Get Purpler

LinBon — Mon, 15 Sep 2008 22:57:07 GMT

With major banks failing, Wall Street in serious trouble, AIG on the brink of disaster, our troops still in Iraq and gasoline prices rising even though the Texas refineries were not damaged, why would anyone want to vote in more of Bushie Boy and party by voting for McCain/Palin.

Even the antiabortion voters need to reconsider since McCain says he is antiabortion, but voted for partial-birth abortion which occurs after the 20th week of gestation and is considered to be the state of viable birth period and must clearly then be considered "murder" by anyone.

re: Battleground Update: The Red States Get Redder, The Blue States Get Purpler

Pallisor — Mon, 15 Sep 2008 23:04:49 GMT

LinBon,

People like you make me laugh! As if no democrats are involved in wall street, Insurance, Iraq, and high gas prices! And obviously, you've forgotten most of congress, including dems, voted to go to Iraq...

Libs like you are always looking for the easy way out... find fault and assign blame, regardless of the facts.

And, please, you can stop with telling the world you know when life begins. You don't.

re: Battleground Update: The Red States Get Redder, The Blue States Get Purpler

Pallisor — Mon, 15 Sep 2008 23:16:03 GMT

LinBon, McCain voted for banning partial birth abortion, while Obama voted against banning iit.

Get your facts straight before you post.

re: Battleground Update: The Red States Get Redder, The Blue States Get Purpler

GregHere — Tue, 16 Sep 2008 00:32:14 GMT

It is not hard at all to see how McCain has gained in the polls when he is over the hill at 72 years old and is philisophically near the disasterous George Bush. The news is controlled by big business interests on Cable and Network Television, on many radio networks and in newspaper publications in most States. America is not really a democracy when our information sources are manipulated by powerful wealthy forces who slant the news to help the Far Right Wing element in America. Bush will soon be completing 8 bad years and most of the Country is disatisfied with his blunders yet the media does not focus on McCains bast and goes along with McCains false claim to being a change candidate.......McCain is a stale politician twisting facts to aide his efforts to gain a 3rd Term Bush Style Administration.

re: Battleground Update: The Red States Get Redder, The Blue States Get Purpler

Pallisor — Tue, 16 Sep 2008 01:49:00 GMT

Uhhhh.... Greg! You're a little behind the times... the MSM is and has been in the tank for Obama. Geez, even Saturday Night Live new that!

re: Battleground Update: The Red States Get Redder, The Blue States Get Purpler

ELITISTbama — Tue, 16 Sep 2008 02:38:30 GMT

It is obvious to every one with an iota of a brain that the media is way way biased towards oSama. Every headline in the print medi seems to begin with Obama did this... or Obama said that...or Obama blasts mCcain...blah blah blah and on and on and on and on and on and on and on and on and on it goes...yada yada yada yada

Well as that mentor of his said so profoundly... "the chiken coming home to roost" baby :)

re: Battleground Update: The Red States Get Redder, The Blue States Get Purpler

militarybooks — Tue, 16 Sep 2008 02:42:38 GMT

The polls are also shifing because people are beginning to see that Obama is an empty suit.

Want to laugh and do good? Jumpt to http://www.obamaresearch.com, check out the short video, and order a mess of copies of the book about Obama's accomplishments. It is only $4.95, and it looks like a real 40-pg. pamphlet-book, except it is BLANK.

Give one to each of your confused friends, college students getting read to vote the first time, messed up liberal friends, etc. Some of the proceeds go to wounded vets.

Scott

re: Battleground Update: The Red States Get Redder, The Blue States Get Purpler

kdanieli — Tue, 16 Sep 2008 03:01:00 GMT

Sarah granted Jesse's wish.

http://lezident.com

re: Battleground Update: The Red States Get Redder, The Blue States Get Purpler

cobalt6 — Tue, 16 Sep 2008 03:05:23 GMT

Great Video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oJiBDu5gWtc

re: Battleground Update: The Red States Get Redder, The Blue States Get Purpler

jaycasey — Tue, 16 Sep 2008 03:07:37 GMT

I think the public is just starting to push back on the McCain Big Lies so I expect Obama to gain in the polls. The McCain campaign and his running mate are clearly lying about a number of things but few journalists are calling them on their outrageous, unprincipled behavior. As a former supporter of McCain I'm insulted and outraged at his outright lies. There's no way I would vote for such an unprincipled liar. The media needs to start calling him on this.

re: Battleground Update: The Red States Get Redder, The Blue States Get Purpler

Pallisor — Tue, 16 Sep 2008 03:12:23 GMT

The media is in the tank for Obama, don't you think they would be "calling McCain on this" if any of what you said were true?

re: Battleground Update: The Red States Get Redder, The Blue States Get Purpler

rube — Tue, 16 Sep 2008 03:17:06 GMT

As this is going over the wire while other newer stories roll in about the economy.

people are connecting the dots- the ecomomy is sliding hard. people are starting to think with their wallets and checkbooks, which means we cant afford Bush policies to continue! mCCain is the mirror copy of taxes and war and federal no oversight involving financial sectors etc.

The S&L collapse now the subprime and banking crash havs Mccain written all over them!

Forget the polls two days ago- this is the real deal- McCain is the exact same as Bush. Greenspan and all the experts are saying it- the "bilking" is on and its on the middle class Americans! Obama will come back starting tomorrow! Intelligence will win over self-righteousness!

re: Battleground Update: The Red States Get Redder, The Blue States Get Purpler

vstillwell — Tue, 16 Sep 2008 03:17:08 GMT

I would like to announce that I'm throwing my full support behind Fred Thompson for his 2012 presidential run. We need a man of his vision, character and unyeilding patriotism in the White House. He has demonstrated tremondous courage and good judgement throughout his career as a C list movie and television actor. Who can ever forget his roles in "Iron Eagle III" and "Baby's Day Out". I would literally follow this man to the gates of Hell and back. His ability to inspire greatness in others is legendary. He is the true standard bearer for the Republican movement in America. Our children will hold is name and legacy in great regard. He is a fountain of truth and the American way.

re: Battleground Update: The Red States Get Redder, The Blue States Get Purpler

Lucy54 — Tue, 16 Sep 2008 03:32:40 GMT

As long as the media continues to refute the lies of McCain/Palin and company and highlight not only his lack of knowledge of economics, but his support in this financial disaster while a Senator, Obama/Biden will not only bounce back, but I predict will win this election solidly. Voters will run to their voting booth to ensure that not only McCain/Palin not get into the White House, but that his economic advisor, Sen. Gramm - Mr. "Mental Recession" and "We're Just a Nation of Whiners" never gets a cabinet position. I can't imagine any Wall Street employee now voting for a President who knows nothing about the economy and a VP who knows even less (if that's even possible).

re: Battleground Update: The Red States Get Redder, The Blue States Get Purpler

maq1 — Tue, 16 Sep 2008 03:57:35 GMT

McCain sold out his independent fans like myself and has become a Republican patsy. I remember when I read his book "Why Courage Matters." I thought it was remarkable that I was reading a book by a Washington politician that i actually enjoyed. It sat next to "Profiles in Courage" on my bookshelf. Where'd that McCain go? I dont know and frankly I don't care. He lost his spine. Time to kick him out with the rest of the Republican cronies.

-- Fiscal Conservative and Former Republican

re: Battleground Update: The Red States Get Redder, The Blue States Get Purpler

wendy027 — Tue, 16 Sep 2008 04:13:12 GMT

If your ideal is a guy who had his first political fundraiser at the home of self-acknowledged bomber Bill Ayers; who bought his home at a discount from a convict named Rezko and then lied about their relationship; who dedicates his book to his father who deserted him then disses his mother and grandmother as typical prejudiced white people after they stayed and raised him; who sat in church for 20 years listening to his mentor and spiritual guide Wright preach hate of America, hate of white people, promulgate black power and racism then claim he never heard the sermons and never protests the church giving a lifetime achievement award to anti-Semite Louis Farrakhan; who chose as his wife a woman who dislikes her country which is mean and nasty and was never proud of it until now; who belittles small town residents, for clinging to guns and religion, when he thinks they're out of earshot; who believes the morality of abortion is “above my pay grade”; who has been in the State and US senate but can't seem to make decisions on whether to vote yes or no; who has never in his life run anything; who says one thing then does another - campaign financing, NAFTA, voting for the troops, voting for the Bridge to Nowhere; who criticizes America while he is roaming the globe as the Citizen of the World; who advocates big government, big spending and expanded entitlement programs all paid for by huge tax increases. If that's your ideal, then you certainly should vote for Barack Obama.

re: Battleground Update: The Red States Get Redder, The Blue States Get Purpler

Iota1963 — Tue, 16 Sep 2008 04:28:01 GMT

@Wendy - You make a legitimate point. Withall of Senator McCains experience, it really shouldn't be a close race. To be evenhanded, it seems everytime the Republicans gain control, they squander it. Remember Tom Delay and Newt Gingrich (Contract with America)? When they got control of both houses of congress, they forgot about the people who got them there (rural white non college value voters). This has always been the case. Both father and son Bush went to Yale, but pretend to be good ol boys who like beer and NASCAR. John McCain and Sarah Palin will probably win, but do you think life in America will actually get better for the people who put them in office?

(Disclaimer - I admit to being a liberal east coast 100K salary with a Masters Degree). I do better financially under Republicans anyway. Isn't that ironic? Walmart moms will vote them in, and I will benefit.

re: Battleground Update: The Red States Get Redder, The Blue States Get Purpler

Iota1963 — Tue, 16 Sep 2008 04:32:13 GMT

@Wendy - While attending Princeton, Michelle Obama's roomate's mother ask the school administration to assign her daughter a different roomate because of MIchelle's color. Have you ever had to deal with that?

re: Battleground Update: The Red States Get Redder, The Blue States Get Purpler

TrueHawk — Tue, 16 Sep 2008 05:09:31 GMT

The author needs to look a the very tight race for Virginia and Colorado. Herein lies the key this year.

re: Battleground Update: The Red States Get Redder, The Blue States Get Purpler

revhoward05 — Tue, 16 Sep 2008 05:14:08 GMT

@Wendy and others>>>>>>>>>>> For 10 years the republicans held control of congress....>>>>10<<<< and what we have to show for it is a country much farther into debt than it ever has been. Yes, it was a product of a Republican President and Republican Congress and Republicans purposely omit that from any conversation on the economy while accusing the Democrats of being bad for the average person. That is disengenuos and offensive.Consider this...Taxes WILL have to be raised for individual and companies to pay for the cost of the IRAQ WAR/OCCUPATION. The generally held republican talking point was that market growth with produce conditions that will balance the affects of irresponsible republican spending but as we all see the market ISN'T growing. Actually, do to republican negligence predatory lending practices have cause a very unstable and weak economy yet You assail Obama. He's only trying to preserve YOUR retirement. You, with your perceived notion of Obama's "big government", ridicule him but if you examine the republican party you'll notice that for 7 consecutive years government agencies and government spending has increased. The part that should outrage the average American is that the republicans did it with no consideration of how to pay for it. Truth be told, the next 12 years we will be spent paying for the last 8 regardless of who is president. AND another thing....WHEN??? When will ignorant (dictionary definition-ignorant) or should I say malicious republicans stop with the slur of Obama because of his name (because it sounds threatening) or former pastor (don't let me get started on Reps Rod Parsley or the late Jerry Fallwel or the current James Dobson) or his belief system (have you seen the Palin clips at a Pentecostal church saying"U.S. soldiers are doing God's work in IRAQ or read the stories of her banning book in alaskan libraries), Can I get a republican that converses on the issues w/o reducing the conversation to a seminar on "talking points"?

re: Battleground Update: The Red States Get Redder, The Blue States Get Purpler

PulSamsara — Tue, 16 Sep 2008 06:44:18 GMT

Looks to me like some RED States are turning Purple... but just a shade more blue than red.

Barack Obama for President of the UNITED States of America.

re: Battleground Update: The Red States Get Redder, The Blue States Get Purpler

benitacanova — Tue, 16 Sep 2008 10:24:59 GMT

This conversation isn't helping my kids.

re: Battleground Update: The Red States Get Redder, The Blue States Get Purpler

Indepedent in VA — Tue, 16 Sep 2008 10:37:59 GMT

To revhoward05:

You should get your facts straight before commenting. The Republicans did not control for 10 years. They controlled Congress (both chambers) from 2003 through 2007 (four years). In order to control Congress you must have a majority in both chambers (House and Senate). Prehaps a brief lesson in goverment 101 or knowing the facts first is justified here.

re: Battleground Update: The Red States Get Redder, The Blue States Get Purpler

revhoward05 — Tue, 16 Sep 2008 13:01:25 GMT

@ Independent in Va....Please go check your facts. If my memory serves correct the republicans held congress from 95-07. The only time they did not have a complete majority in both houses was 01-03 in the senate when the count was 50-50 during which 1 of the 50 democrats was turncoat Joseph L. who was as likely to vote like a republican than any other democratic senator. Are you done trying to avoid the issues and twist the truth? Do you care to respond any of the other comments I left behind or as a registered independent do you turn a blind I to the gaffes of the GOP in the past 7+ years?

re: Battleground Update: The Red States Get Redder, The Blue States Get Purpler

reformer — Tue, 16 Sep 2008 13:05:48 GMT

If Obama says there are no red states and blue states but only the United States, why does he keep attacking McCain simply for being a Republican? I hope he keeps up his lame, pathetic attacks. The more he does, the more his numbers fall. McCain-Palin08

re: Battleground Update: The Red States Get Redder, The Blue States Get Purpler

JoanR — Tue, 16 Sep 2008 13:31:51 GMT

Minnesota is now dead even and Obama's lead has shrunk to 5 pts in NY.If you think that he will win Pa,Mi,Co and NH you are dreaming

re: Battleground Update: The Red States Get Redder, The Blue States Get Purpler

birches12 — Tue, 16 Sep 2008 13:41:36 GMT

well if doesnt workout, this time the democratic, party and women can forget about any other democrat, ever being elected,without the black vote,after mccain finishes, bushes third term.

re: Battleground Update: The Red States Get Redder, The Blue States Get Purpler

atc333 — Tue, 16 Sep 2008 13:45:55 GMT

The Republicans totally controlled Congress and the Presidency for 4 years. Before during and after that period, the Republicans have put themselves first, Party second, and Country third, blocking needed legislation by any means possilbe. During that 4 year period of total control, the Right Wing Neocons did everything they coulddo to consolidate that power, including letting any corporations which contributed to a Democratic candidate know they would be punished by the administration and congress by denial of access. During this time the Neocons attempted to eleminate the filibuster as a tool to block legislation, because they were in total contorl. During that time, it became known that one of the Neocon goals was to shrink government, ie:, less government and regulation is good, even if it meant bankrupting the Federal Government to implement that reduction.

The same Republican Congress and Presidency went to war without putting this country on a war footing, continuing with the Bush tax cuts, while committing to massive borrowing to finance Bush's folly, knowing that rasing taxes to pay for the war as we fought it would stir public sentiment to question the need for war, which was in the planning stages two months after his election,--before 911, because Bush considered Iraq "Unfinished business" Instead, the United States has become a Payday Loan country, borrowing and borrowing on credit, from China, and the Saudi Arabia, carefully calculated to avoid rasing questions as to why are we at war. Instead, we have had tax cuts to the rich, further evidencing a reckless fiscal policy, relying upon our children,and grandchildren to pay off this debt. Likewise, the war has gone on for 5 years without implementing a coherant plan for rebuilding Iraq, or without implementing a draft, because a draft would hit all segments of socitey equally, rather than those who join the Armed Services out of necessity, seeking eduacation, and a means of a livelyhood. This no draft policy has been going on despite the fact that this policy has been grinding down our forces to such an extent that now Iran, and Russia can do anything they want to without fear of any response other than pure words form the US, because first we lack the military campacity to do anything about it on the ground, and second, because during this same time the Radical Right has refused to acknowlege Golobal Warming, or the need for alternative energy to power this country, Russia, and Iran can now simply threaten to cut off oil to us, and Europe, should the US and Europe do anything more than talk disapprovingly about Iran's nuclear ambitiions,, or Russia's invasion of Georga. IThis all could have been different, had Bush, and the Neocons not implemented an energy policy which put Cheney in charge of a "policy " rewarding Enron, and the Oil producers. When questioned about who were Cheney's advisors, Bush and Cheney invoked "Executive Privilige", and ran to the Federal Courts to block inquiry, because the truth was there was no energy policy, other than rewarding their supporter.

Another mantra of the Neocons is less regulation of free enterprise, "letting the free market set its on guidlines" Bush, Cheney, and the Neocons were repeatedly warned about the Mortgage market, subpriime loans, the reckless use of them as securities, and requested to enforce laws and regulations which were on the books. They refused, the regulatory agencies refused. When the states attempted to regulate those activities, the Bush adminsitration ran to the Federal courts, and got a ruling that this was an area of Federal supramacy, and the states could not act, even though the Federal Regulatory agencies were abdicating their responsibilities. What happened, The subprime Mortage Crisis. IT COULD HAVE BEEN PREVENTED, but no, free market, no regulation. Who is responsible,-- Bush, Cheney, their Radical Right advisors, and the members of congress who allow themselves to be led around by the nose rather than be allowed to think of what is best for the country..

Now, it is Behr Sterns, Lehman Bros, AIG, and the list will go on, and why, because the Radical right corerced its Republican members of congress to acceed to whatever Bush/Cheney wanted, regardless of the cost to the country.

Now we have McCain and Palin attempting to approprate the call for change, he the Maverick, even though he voted 90% with Bush's demands, and she who was a pork barreler extrordianaire, who now claims to have "stopped the Bridge to Nowhere". who wanted to ban books, fired town employees , and who now is claiming she never said/did/ that. It is business as usual, half truths and outright distortions of the truth, to confuse the voting public

there are some great republican leaders. However, the public is not offered a choice of them on the ticket. Before McCain was taken over by the neocons, as payment for their support, as evidenced by Palin being on his ticket, I would have seriously considered voting for him. However, he has sold out, he is not a maverick, he is towing the line for his party handlers. The Regan "pump priming" tax cuts do not work. The economic history of this country prove it. Tax cut when the country has become a debor nation, a Payday Loan victim of the Neocons trying to put selves and friends first, party second, counrty third. The US budget does not even cover the cost of the intererst on our war debt. McCains proposed tax cuts cannot even begin to consider the cost to the countr5y of fixing the past 7 years of nonregulation, and the massive failures of the Bush administration, and its non enforcment of the financial sector. Trillions of dollars have be squandered on the Neocon/radical right agenday, Look at the headlines. The bottom line is we need change in direction, Red states and Blue states need to become Purple states, and do what is right for the cournty, not party, not frends and who you owe to get in to office. I am afraid that the Paylin/McCanin ticket =more pain. not a soulution to what his country really faces

re: Battleground Update: The Red States Get Redder, The Blue States Get Purpler

orlando4u — Tue, 16 Sep 2008 14:08:39 GMT

McCain will not be a third term for Bush. Say what you want but Bush was a good president except when I came to the economy. Some Republicans in Congress with Bush spent way too much money and acted like Democrats. I remember Bush kept announcing that home ownership was on the rise, especially with minorities. The STUPID push to get more people into home ownership was started by Clinton and made worse by Bush. A large group of people in this country where born to rent and have no business owning their own home. Since public education can't even teach kids to read and write why would you expect them to have financial responsibility to make a mortgage payment. You really want to look at a problem. The look at Obama's campaign finance chairman Penny Pritzker. Penny is one of the richest women in American. She owned Superior Bank which focused on risky loans to inner city neighborhoods. Superior Bank was taken over by the Feds and will cost us the tax payers millions upon millions.

re: Battleground Update: The Red States Get Redder, The Blue States Get Purpler

jnakhoul — Tue, 16 Sep 2008 14:19:26 GMT

don't underestimate mr. obama's ability to mobilize first time voters and young voters

re: Battleground Update: The Red States Get Redder, The Blue States Get Purpler

JoseyJ — Tue, 16 Sep 2008 14:30:19 GMT

Romano - you're wrong.

RCP has had McCain 227 and Obama 207 since Sept. 14.

http://www.realclearpolitics.com/epolls/maps/obama_vs_mccain/

Dems for McCain/Palin!

re: Battleground Update: The Red States Get Redder, The Blue States Get Purpler

JoseyJ — Tue, 16 Sep 2008 14:31:12 GMT

A Dem Congress with McCain/Palin - YESSSSSS!

re: Battleground Update: The Red States Get Redder, The Blue States Get Purpler

Ian in LR — Tue, 16 Sep 2008 14:35:24 GMT

I really believe (and hope) that these polls are practically worthless. If cell phone users aren't taking part then I suspect Obama's numbers are significantly higher in most states than what the polls are showing. If younger voters, more of whom are likely to vote Obama, turn out in large numbers nationwide, I think the results will surprise a lot of people. I think there were some fence sitters who may be supporting McCain since his selection of Palin, but I also think many will reconsider this as a good decision as she is more thoroughly examined or as those leaning towards McCain realize that her inclusion doesn't really change McCain and the policies he has advocated. For me McCain / Palin just don't inspire a great deal of confidence that they will make the bold decisions necessary to take our country in a new and better direction. "Reforming" the deck chairs on the Titanic may have them looking nicer, but won't keep the ship from sinking.

re: Battleground Update: The Red States Get Redder, The Blue States Get Purpler

scabo — Tue, 16 Sep 2008 14:37:35 GMT

I'd rather have a respectful president with manners who shows change, than a president that can e-mail and talk change. Say no to the Obama fairytales, stump speeches that go around accusing everyone else for lying are not a good enough shield to hide truth about Obama. Being president is above his pay grade.

re: Battleground Update: The Red States Get Redder, The Blue States Get Purpler

cobalt6 — Tue, 16 Sep 2008 14:52:38 GMT

Great Video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oJiBDu5gWtc

re: Battleground Update: The Red States Get Redder, The Blue States Get Purpler

mrunpc — Tue, 16 Sep 2008 14:55:24 GMT

Here are the latest "battleground state" results from Zogby which clearly show McCain moving comfortably ahead of Obama in nearly every poll. The really interesting thing is to see how well McCain is doing in PA, VA, and NH. If McCain wins each of these states along with the other traditionally "red" ones, he's going to win.

**********************************************************

All of McCain’s gains come from moving toss-up states into his column—no states moved directly from Obama to McCain.

In the race for the White House, the winner must capture states worth at least 270 Electoral College votes, a majority of the total of 538 votes available.

The Horserace Now in the Eleven Battleground States:

Horserace—Colorado

9-9/12

McCain

47.5%

Obama

45.5%

Not Sure/Other

7.0%

Horserace—Florida

9-9/12

McCain

52.1

Obama

41.8

Not Sure/Other

6.1

Horserace—Michigan

9-9/12

McCain

43.3%

Obama

49.0%

Not Sure/Other

7.7%

Horserace—Missouri

9-9/12

McCain

48.5%

Obama

42.4%

Not Sure/Other

9.1%

Horserace—North Carolina

9-9/12

McCain

46.6%

Obama

48.1%

Not Sure/Other

5.3%

Horserace—New Hampshire

9-9/12

McCain

49.1%

Obama

42.8%

Not Sure/Other

8.1%

Horserace—New Mexico

9-9/12

McCain

44.1%

Obama

45.6%

Not Sure/Other

10.3%

Horserace—Nevada

9-9/12

McCain

50.1%

Obama

42.5%

Not Sure/Other

7.4%

Horserace—Ohio

9-9/12

McCain

49.8%

Obama

43.9%

Not Sure/Other

6.3%

Horserace - Pennsylvania

9-9/12

McCain

49.1%

Obama

44.3%

Not Sure/Other

6.6%

Horserace—Virginia

9-9/12

McCain

50.3%

Obama

43.8%

Not Sure/Other

5.9%

re: Battleground Update: The Red States Get Redder, The Blue States Get Purpler

wilsan — Tue, 16 Sep 2008 15:17:40 GMT

This is a good, well written, article. Much thanks to the writer.

Very unusual for Newsweek to do something that is not totally "in the Tank for Obama". I can't help but wonder if the writer snuck this past the Newsweek Editor in order to get past him/her.

I think the election is going to go right down to the wire. I support McCain, and am heavily involved in local Michigan politics. We're getting signs out, talking to people, and doing the best we can to advance our candidate... The selection of Sarah Palin has had a galvanizing effect locally.

For the record, other than lies, slime, and leftist bias that Newsweek/Time/NYT puts out, I think this could be an election to be proud of regardless who wins. Obama is a decent candidate and fairly represents a left of center political position, just a McCain does the right side.

It's when Sleaze disguised as 'opinion' or 'news' gets injected from supposedly reputable media that the country gets more divided and polarized.

re: Battleground Update: The Red States Get Redder, The Blue States Get Purpler

doctorfixit — Tue, 16 Sep 2008 15:32:04 GMT

The mainstream propagandists are doing a good job of treating Americans with elitism arrogance, and condescension. I thought Jon Carry and AlGore were the most pretentious blowhards ever, but Obama-rama-ding-dong has them beat. I think he should have a contest with Charlie Gibson to see who can look down their nose the longest.

I think real Americans are finally getting wise to the basic un-Americanism of the monopolistic corporate propaganda cartel owned by GE/GOOGLE/MICROSOFT/NBC/ABC/CBS/CNN/MSNBC//WAPO/NYT/LAT

I hope that real Americans will begin boycotting the propandists and their parent companies,like GE, GOOGLE, and MICROSOFT..

re: Battleground Update: The Red States Get Redder, The Blue States Get Purpler

paulte — Tue, 16 Sep 2008 15:33:40 GMT

It seems like the Palin pick did wipe out the Obama lead. Hats off to McCain on that one! I was not too happy about the Palin pick when I first heard of it and trouble may still be in the way. But for now anyway, it looks good. Even though Obama maintains an electoral lead for now, it may soon dissipate with his evaporated lead. If the race is a tossup at this point, it is really in McCain's favor because of what is called the Bradley effect, i.e., white people lying about voting for a black man. This effect may indeed be less now than it was in the past, now that race no longer matters if you believe the Liberal media. But racism is still out there and it is difficult to guage it.

So the polls that are used in the states must have the bradley effect too. Admittedly, it is probably greater in the red area with more rednecks but I remember growing up in Queens, NY where the racial demarcation lines could rival Johannesberg, SA. So it is definitely not just in the red areas!

November will tell the tale about the reality of "post racial" America!

re: Battleground Update: The Red States Get Redder, The Blue States Get Purpler

topdog1 — Tue, 16 Sep 2008 15:37:06 GMT

Real Clear Politics electoral map does not reflect latest polls. It averages "recent" polls which may include data months old, even in "toss-up"states, often predating Palin's convention speech. This stabilizes data fluctuations, but results in a time lag. McCain is doing better than this electoral map shows.

re: Battleground Update: The Red States Get Redder, The Blue States Get Purpler

BrooklynMan — Tue, 16 Sep 2008 15:45:41 GMT

Obama has a lot of territory to defend now. McCain is now in striking distance not just in the noted battleground states but in WASHINGTON STATE and OREGON, too. The left dissing Alaska didn't play too well in the Northwest. McCain has also narrowed the lead in New Jersey and New York enough to make Dems I know here very nervous. Could Obama have to spend resources here to keep the Tri-State region blue???? McCain/Palin is taking the country by storm and Hurricane Obama is losing momentum. McCain/Palin is doing much better than this map shows if the Northwest and Northeast are in play for McCain in September. Obama's campaign must be in a panic.

re: Battleground Update: The Red States Get Redder, The Blue States Get Purpler

Idolized — Tue, 16 Sep 2008 16:00:59 GMT

Can you imagine an election fiasco that would be greater then the election of 2000?

When I create my own map of red and blue states at the RCP website, I see a pretty good chance that this election could be tied electorally (269-269)! In which case it will be up to the newly elected House to elect the new President. What gets really bizarre is that not every House member gets a vote but every state gets one vote. Can you imagine the fighting between House members of different parties in each state?! I suppose they would all decide to vote the way their STATE voted, but that would be way to simple if it went that smoothly among House members of differing parties.

I really hope this doesn't happen, but this year (as of right now) I really can see it become true.

If McCain holds the battleground states of Ohio/Virgina (based on recent pres. elections he is most likely too) and he hold Colorado, then he will have 269.

Obama will most likely get the battleground states of New Hampshire,New Mexico, and Nevada (remember that Nevada is consistantly close and Obama camp. has a huge voter drive in that state). Obama will have 269.

I don't believe that Michigan and Penn. or Wisc. will go for McCain (if things are where they are Nov. 4 as they are today). Conversely I don't buy that Ohio will ever go for Obama.

THE CHANCES OF 269 are very real!

re: Battleground Update: The Red States Get Redder, The Blue States Get Purpler

tsilionis — Tue, 16 Sep 2008 16:07:10 GMT

There are a couple things I think are important to bring out as they are not talked about.

1) Pennsylvania is a MUST STATE for Obama and not so important for McCain. Based on Obama making that statement "Clinging to Guns and Religion" a large door is present in PA for an upset. The fact that polls have PA tied right now is a concern for Obama beyond anything else. It does not matter if McCain is ahead or behind on the national polls as long as he can win PA. Colorado, Minnesota, Virginia, New Mexico, Michigan, Iowa and Wisconsin become irrelevant. McCain wins with 274 Electoral votes even if he loses all those States as long as he wins PA, FL and OH.

2) The youth movement for Obama has taken a big setback by Palin. If you look at the numbers the bigger youth movements have been in California, Massachusetts New York, Florida and the rest of the Northeast. Outside of FLORIDA none of those States matter regardless of margin. Since Palin though you have seen a large Youth movement on her part and how much of that is going to effect Obama's numbers?

More important the youth movement was large prior to summer break. Have we seen the youth get re-energized now that they are back to school?

3) When is McCain going to combat the 1982 ad? Rather then coming out with ridicules Sex Ed ads why does he not combat that 1982 ad with explaining that War Injuries prevent him from using a PC? Show people how much of a hypocrite Obama and his campaign really is.

Just ideas..

Tom Tsilionis

McCain Supporter

re: Battleground Update: The Red States Get Redder, The Blue States Get Purpler

Lisa2008 — Tue, 16 Sep 2008 16:15:30 GMT

Although the election will be close, the political climate favors Senator McCain because he is performing better with independents.

re: Battleground Update: The Red States Get Redder, The Blue States Get Purpler

Omaar — Tue, 16 Sep 2008 16:45:33 GMT

David Brooks writes in the New York Times that Sarah Palin is unqualified:

In the current Weekly Standard, Steven Hayward argues that the nation's founders wanted uncertified citizens to hold the highest offices in the land. They did not believe in a separate class of professional executives. They wanted rough and rooted people like Palin.

I would have more sympathy for this view if I hadn't just lived through the last eight years. For if the Bush administration was anything, it was the anti-establishment attitude put into executive practice.

And the problem with this attitude is that, especially in his first term, it made Bush inept at governance. It turns out that governance, the creation and execution of policy, is hard. It requires acquired skills. Most of all, it requires prudence.

...

Sarah Palin has many virtues. If you wanted someone to destroy a corrupt establishment, she'd be your woman. But the constructive act of governance is another matter. She has not been engaged in national issues, does not have a repertoire of historic patterns and, like President Bush, she seems to compensate for her lack of experience with brashness and excessive decisiveness.

Ross Douthat agrees at the Atlantic:

Now that we've seen the entirety of the Palin-Gibson tete-a-tete, I concur with Rich Lowry and Rod Dreher. The most that can be said in her defense is that she kept her cool and avoided any brutal gaffes; other than that, she seemed about an inch deep on every issue outside her comfort zone. Yes, the questions were tougher than the ones that a Tim Kaine or Tim Pawlenty probably would have been handed, but they were all questions that a vice-presidential nominee needs to be able to answer.

And there's no way to look at her performance as anything save supporting evidence for the non-hysterical critique of her candidacy - that it's just too much, too soon - and a splash of cold water for those of us with high hopes for her future on the national stage.

And in the Washington Post, Richard Cohen goes off on McCain, seizing on the Palin pick as a sign of how far gone the candidate is:

McCain has turned ugly. His dishonesty would be unacceptable in any politician, but McCain has always set his own bar higher than most. He has contempt for most of his colleagues for that very reason: They lie. He tells the truth. He internalizes the code of the McCains -- his grandfather, his father: both admirals of the shining sea. He serves his country differently, that's all -- but just as honorably. No more, though.

...

His opportunistic and irresponsible choice of Sarah Palin as his political heir -- the person in whose hands he would leave the country -- is a form of personal treason, a betrayal of all he once stood for. Palin, no matter what her other attributes, is shockingly unprepared to become president. McCain knows that. He means to win, which is all right; he means to win at all costs, which is not.

re: Battleground Update: The Red States Get Redder, The Blue States Get Purpler

Omaar — Tue, 16 Sep 2008 16:50:57 GMT

Karl Rove, Brit Hume, Fox News and CNN News, Also AGREES, that Obama would WIN the Presidency Via the [Electorral College]....

The current Real Clear Politics electoral map reflects the latest polls; it is not a prediction of the outcome

One week ago today, I launched Stumper's general-election coverage with an in-depth look at where the "Race for the White House" stood in the wake of the Democratic and Republican nominating conventions. While the national polls had swung about 9 points in John McCain's direction since the Democrats left Denver, the Real Clear Politics electoral map still tilted every so slightly toward Barack Obama, 273 to 265.

But the Illinois senator's slim lead was hardly set in stone--as I noted at the time. "No battleground state polls have been released since the second day of the Republican Convention," I wrote. "If the national surveys are right and McCain has in fact received a 5-point post-St. Paul bounce, that enthusiasm will almost certainly trickle down." I promised to revisit the map once the dust had settled.

Well, now it has. And what it shows is ... drumroll, please ... more of the SAME !!!

According to Real Clear Politics, this week's map, posted above, is identical to last week's.

Obama is Still Leading..................... [273 electoral votes to 265] !!!!

re: Battleground Update: The Red States Get Redder, The Blue States Get Purpler

Omaar — Tue, 16 Sep 2008 17:00:07 GMT

Another Swift Boat Vet Bows Out of Obama Attacks

By Matthew Mosk

Another veteran of the Swift Boat campaign against John Kerry has indicated he will not participate in financing ads attacking Democrat Barack Obama.

Already, Texas oilman T. Boone Pickens said in interviews that he would bow out to pursue a campaign to end the nation's dependence on foreign oil. Now a second major donor, Texas billionaire Sam Wyly, who has given about $10 million to Republican candidates and causes since the 1970s, has said publicly he will not participate in independent group efforts to tarnish Obama this year.

A number of veterans of the withering ad campaign against Kerry in 2004, which was sponsored by the Swift Boat Veterans for Truth, are trying to reorganize in the final weeks of the 2008 campaign through the American Issues Project, The Post reported over the weekend. But in an interview with the Associated Press published this morning, Wyly was asked if he would finance another Swift Boat-type campaign this year.

"No, no, no," Wyly said. Laughing, he said, "I've done that, and other people can do that now."

One clue as to why he might be sitting this election out can be found in his 2000 campaign efforts. Wyly gave $2.5 million to a group that favored then-Gov. George W. Bush over Sen. John McCain. McCain complained bitterly about the ads, calling on the Federal Election Commission and the Federal Communications Commission to investigate the group, which went by the name Republicans for Clean Air.

re: Battleground Update: The Red States Get Redder, The Blue States Get Purpler

Omaar — Tue, 16 Sep 2008 17:18:14 GMT

Sarah Palin's Foreign On The Job Training: Having a United Nations "Cup Of Tea" "Meet & Great" is Not...The Equivalent Of foreign Policy or Foreign EXPERIENCE...

SORRY SARAH AN VERY A VERY SORRIFUL ATTEMPT ON JOHN MCCAIN CAMPAIGN'S PART....

TO SHORE UP SARAH PALIN'S LACK OF INTERNATIONAL, MORE OVER HER LACK OF NATIONAL EXPERIENCE !!!

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

Source: The Washington Wire

September 16, 2008, 12:46 pm

Palin to Meet Foreign Leaders at U.N.

Monica Langley reports on the presidential race.

Republican vice presidential candidate Sarah Palin will meet with foreign leaders next week at the United Nations, a move to boost her foreign-policy credentials, a Republican strategist said.

Republican candidate John McCain plans to introduce the Alaska governor to heads of state at the opening of the U.N. General Assembly, although specific names weren’t yet firmed up. “The meetings will give her some exposure and experience with foreign leaders,” the strategist said. “It’s a great idea.”

McCain and Palin are expected to visit the U.N. on Tuesday, when President George W. Bush will address the international body.

NOTE: Since her nomination, Palin has energized the Republican base, drawn huge crowds and propelled fund-raising. However, Democrats have attacked her as weak on foreign policy experience. Even on last week’s “Saturday Night Live,” actress Tina Fey spoofed Palin’s assertion that she is familiar with issues involving Russia, noting that Alaska is nearby. “I can see Russia from my house!” Fey-as-Palin said.

But McCain advisers hope her U.N. visit will show how quickly Palin can make key connections and become well-versed in foreign-policy issues.

re: Battleground Update: The Red States Get Redder, The Blue States Get Purpler

Steve Madison — Tue, 16 Sep 2008 17:35:57 GMT

Since Obama is already from Illinois and was going to win it any way, now all those dead voters in Chicago can't effect the election like they did in 1960.

re: Battleground Update: The Red States Get Redder, The Blue States Get Purpler

rube — Tue, 16 Sep 2008 17:52:36 GMT

Wake up America..

if we see red this november...

it means you will continue to "feel" red in your bank account, grocery store,,

paycheck, health care, education and on the battlefield!

Thats the red that we will see!

Enough!

re: Battleground Update: The Red States Get Redder, The Blue States Get Purpler

pmarriott — Tue, 16 Sep 2008 18:31:02 GMT

I am surprised. When Newsweek says something positive about the McCain/Palin ticket, you have to wonder if it is perhaps worse for the Democrats than they are letting on. We can only hope.

re: Battleground Update: The Red States Get Redder, The Blue States Get Purpler

willnotvoteobama — Tue, 16 Sep 2008 18:31:44 GMT

WAKE UP AMERICA.. IF WE SEE BLUE THIS NOVEMBER... IT MEANS THATS WHAT WE WILL BE FEELING FOR THE NEXT 4 YEARS ................... BLUE BECAUSE YOUR TAXED TILL YOU CAN'T BUY GROCERIES AND BLUE BECAUSE YOUR BANK ACCOUNT IS IN THE RED BECAUSE OF HIGHER TAXES EVEN ON EDUCATION AND NO NATIONAL DEFENSE ! I'M FEELING BLUE ALREADY HOW THIS DON'RT BECOME THE DEPRESSED PROZAC NATION !

re: Battleground Update: The Red States Get Redder, The Blue States Get Purpler

Smart Guy — Tue, 16 Sep 2008 19:17:18 GMT

Wow! If New Hampshire is the only one to flip, we have a 269-269 tie.

Does anyone know who wins. I know Democrats have a majority in the House,

BUT there is only 1 vote per state delagation-----somebody somewhere must;ve figured this out.

Anybody?

re: Battleground Update: The Red States Get Redder, The Blue States Get Purpler

drc500free — Tue, 16 Sep 2008 19:59:08 GMT

The Democrats do have enough votes in the delegations to win... but only barely. Depending how the congressional elections go, they'll probably have 26 or 27 votes. So if every Dem sticks to the party, they have it. However, some of those delegations are going to be blue dogs from red states that voted for McCain - and they're going to have to explain to their constituents why they voted against their wishes.

There is the wild possibility that to prevent possible shenanigans, McCain and Obama come to a deal where all unbound electors vote for McCain as VP, so that he is one of the top two VP vote getters. Then the congressional delegations can vote Obama as P and McCain as his VP. That's pretty farfetched though, and is complicated due to state laws binding electors to the ticket they represent.

re: Battleground Update: The Red States Get Redder, The Blue States Get Purpler

Omaar — Tue, 16 Sep 2008 20:30:53 GMT

Will Not Vote Obama:

Your A!! has be seeing [RED]

This Country has been in the [RED[ for......[ 7 1/2 Years]

McCain's Top Economics Adviser told Time Magazine...He said....

"Whether its a Republican President, Democratic President Or a Martian....The Taxes will be Raised"

"And No Spending is a Fig Leaf Argument"

Get it, Got it..Great !!!

Being [Red] is what has caused this Country to be in the [Red] !!

7 1/2 Years of being [Red] has caused this [Blue] Economic down turn...

PS: WHO CARES IF [YOU] WANT VOTE FOR OBAMA....

YOU VOTED FOR BUSH JRS. 8 YEARS.....

F-CK YOUR JUDGEMENT....

OUT WITH [RED NECKS ] LIKE YOU ...WHO WOULD NEVER VOTE FOR OBAMA IN THE 1ST PLACE !!!!

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

THE [ELECTORAL COLLEGE CHOSES OUR NEXT PRESIDENT]

re: Battleground Update: The Red States Get Redder, The Blue States Get Purpler

Omaar — Tue, 16 Sep 2008 20:32:55 GMT

Sarah Palin's Foreign On The Job Training: Having a United Nations "Cup Of Tea" "Meet & Great" is Not...The Equivalent Of foreign Policy or Foreign EXPERIENCE...

SORRY SARAH ....

THIS IS A VERY SORRIFUL ATTEMPT ON JOHN MCCAIN CAMPAIGN'S PART....

TO SHORE UP SARAH PALIN'S LACK OF INTERNATIONAL, MORE OVER HER LACK OF NATIONAL EXPERIENCE !!!

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

Source: The Washington Wire

September 16, 2008, 12:46 pm

Palin to Meet Foreign Leaders at U.N.

Monica Langley reports on the presidential race.

Republican vice presidential candidate Sarah Palin will meet with foreign leaders next week at the United Nations, a move to boost her foreign-policy credentials, a Republican strategist said.

McCain and Palin are expected to visit the U.N. on Tuesday, when President George W. Bush will address the international body.

But McCain advisers hope her U.N. visit will show how quickly Palin can make key connections and become well-versed in foreign-policy issues.

re: Battleground Update: The Red States Get Redder, The Blue States Get Purpler

Omaar — Tue, 16 Sep 2008 20:32:56 GMT

Sarah Palin's Foreign On The Job Training: Having a United Nations "Cup Of Tea" "Meet & Great" is Not...The Equivalent Of foreign Policy or Foreign EXPERIENCE...

SORRY SARAH ....

THIS IS A VERY SORRIFUL ATTEMPT ON JOHN MCCAIN CAMPAIGN'S PART....

TO SHORE UP SARAH PALIN'S LACK OF INTERNATIONAL, MORE OVER HER LACK OF NATIONAL EXPERIENCE !!!

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

Source: The Washington Wire

September 16, 2008, 12:46 pm

Palin to Meet Foreign Leaders at U.N.

Monica Langley reports on the presidential race.

Republican vice presidential candidate Sarah Palin will meet with foreign leaders next week at the United Nations, a move to boost her foreign-policy credentials, a Republican strategist said.

McCain and Palin are expected to visit the U.N. on Tuesday, when President George W. Bush will address the international body.

But McCain advisers hope her U.N. visit will show how quickly Palin can make key connections and become well-versed in foreign-policy issues.

re: Battleground Update: The Red States Get Redder, The Blue States Get Purpler

Omaar — Tue, 16 Sep 2008 20:33:48 GMT

Will Not Vote Obama:

Your A!! has been seeing [RED]

This Country has been in the [RED[ for......[ 7 1/2 Years]

McCain's Top Economics Adviser told Time Magazine...He said....

"Whether its a Republican President, Democratic President Or a Martian....The Taxes will be Raised"

"And No Spending is a Fig Leaf Argument"

Get it, Got it..Great !!!

Being [Red] is what has caused this Country to be in the [Red] !!

7 1/2 Years of being [Red] has caused this [Blue] Economic down turn...

PS: WHO CARES IF [YOU] WANT VOTE FOR OBAMA....

YOU VOTED FOR BUSH JRS. 8 YEARS.....

F-CK YOUR JUDGEMENT....

OUT WITH [RED NECKS ] LIKE YOU ...WHO WOULD NEVER VOTE FOR OBAMA IN THE 1ST PLACE !!!!

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

THE [ELECTORAL COLLEGE CHOSES OUR NEXT PRESIDENT]

re: Battleground Update: The Red States Get Redder, The Blue States Get Purpler

Omaar — Tue, 16 Sep 2008 20:36:26 GMT

Will Not Vote Obama:

Your A!! has been seeing [RED]

This Country has been in the [RED[ for......[ 7 1/2 Years]

McCain's Top Economics Adviser told Time Magazine...He said....

"Whether its a Republican President, Democratic President Or a Martian....The Taxes will be Raised"

"And No Spending is a Fig Leaf Argument"

Get it, Got it..Great !!!

Being [Red] is what has caused this Country to be in the [Red] !!

7 1/2 Years of being [Red] has caused this [Blue] Economic down turn...

PS: WHO CARES IF [YOU] WON'T VOTE FOR OBAMA....

YOU VOTED FOR BUSH JRS. 8 YEARS.....

F-CK YOUR JUDGEMENT....

OUT WITH [RED NECKS ] LIKE YOU ...WHO WOULD NEVER VOTE FOR OBAMA IN THE 1ST PLACE !!!!

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

THE [ELECTORAL COLLEGE CHOSES OUR NEXT PRESIDENT]

re: Battleground Update: The Red States Get Redder, The Blue States Get Purpler

docweasel — Tue, 16 Sep 2008 20:56:17 GMT

Trackback for « <a href="http://docweasel.wordpress.com/2008/09/15/its-over-its-o-o-o-o-ver-its-obamover/" target="_blank" title="">It’s Over, It’s O O O O ver, It’s Obamover</a> « docweaselblog said:

<blockquote>[...] As we've been chronicling, Obama continues to lose ground in "safe" blue states: never mind the battle ground states he hopes to make up where Kerry and Gore lost, if the Democrat ticket can't hold the blue states, all bets are off and we're talking McCain Landslide of epic proportions. Our early posts on the matter back in May now seem eerily prescient: the docweaselblog team should play the lottery this week.

[...]</blockquote>

re: Battleground Update: The Red States Get Redder, The Blue States Get Purpler

kidoist — Tue, 16 Sep 2008 20:59:39 GMT

Remember, this is only a snapshot and McCain is even or ahead. Put it on a momentum curve and McCain is flying away with it at mach speed. This turn around is stunning as far as political victories go...

re: Battleground Update: The Red States Get Redder, The Blue States Get Purpler

Pete Kent — Tue, 16 Sep 2008 21:07:34 GMT

CO and MI are far from being locked down for Obama and represent great risks.

Move either of those and McCain wins. That we are talking about MN and WI as swing states only shows how dire things are.

Obama's paths to victory are getting very constricted; meanwhile McCain's appeal grows across the board, not based on local appeals or limited demographics.

The current economic turmoil on Wall Street will make Main Street realize that the last thing we need in the White House is someone who is pledged to raising taxes out of "fairness" even as he acknowledges that such moves would not necessarily increase revenues.

Obama and his plans for higher taxes on investment are a recipe for disaster. Jimmy Carter, like lightening, will not strike twice.

re: Battleground Update: The Red States Get Redder, The Blue States Get Purpler

kidoist — Tue, 16 Sep 2008 21:11:54 GMT

Wow! And this map isn't reflecting total reality; Pa and Colorado are for McCain beyond the margin. Michigan is the suburbs of Detroit vs Detroiters. And those Detroiters, registered dems may be too disgusted to turn out, considering the winner they put in the Mayor's office(getting ready to do a couple of jail sentences and probation for 15 plus years). I still cannot believe the dems nominated such an unelectable leftist as Obama. The real story is now congress is within the margin if the repubs are smart about it.

One request fellow conservatives; no gloating from now on. Share the optimism, but no gloating...

re: Battleground Update: The Red States Get Redder, The Blue States Get Purpler

GregHere — Tue, 16 Sep 2008 21:44:42 GMT

.....................................These "Red States" are "Red States" because of the total bias of fair political information or twisting of news information that is seen in Print Media, Radio Media or Print Publications that is shifted towards the philosophy of the Far Right Wing of the Republican parties. Ever been in some of these Rural or Cow Counties and look at the Newspapers, their Columnists, Editorials, Political Cartoons or accepted and printed letters To The Editors?? These Propaganda Periodicals look like they were written to please a Dick Cheney or Strom Thurmond type guy.....all Right Wing!! Guess how these Rural Counties are going to vote on election day and what Party is going to carry the electoral votes in these States?? This has been going on for decade after decade and this makes America NOT a real democracy in fact!!!!

re: Battleground Update: The Red States Get Redder, The Blue States Get Purpler

GregHere — Tue, 16 Sep 2008 21:44:42 GMT

re: Battleground Update: The Red States Get Redder, The Blue States Get Purpler

Frita — Sat, 20 Sep 2008 20:40:55 GMT

Check us out at http://femalegeorgebush.com.

Folks, Palin is clearly a Female version of George Bush.

She's been hand picked as someone who will play on your fears and appeal to your sense of everyday values. That is understandable, but the sad truth is McCain/Palin represent the republican party thats been taken over by short sighted crooks that really do not have the best interests of the country at heart.

McCain/Palin will push to keep sending trillions to the middle east in oil money while continuing to fight the war causing thousands of soldiers and others to die while spending $150+ billion a year. They'll also continue to enable the dollar to lose value. You have to understand the price of oil, value of the dollar, loss of US jobs, spending in Iraq and not investing in domestic energy are all connected and leading to the economic meltdown of today.

Palin believes 9/11 was caused by Iraq. Palin believes endangered species don't matter. Palin believes war with Russia is a reasonable option.

You know better. You deserve better. Make sure you listen to the truth and go beyond your fear.

Check us out at http://femalegeorgebush.com

re: Battleground Update: The Red States Get Redder, The Blue States Get Purpler

Braes — Mon, 22 Sep 2008 20:57:28 GMT

I am laughing at Arkansas in Red. 3 of our 4 congresspersons are solid D's and both Senators solid D's... The State executive and all constitutional officers are solid D's, the state house and senate have almost D-locked majorities... The registration advantage is completely staggering, only 5-6 of 75 counties have R majorities, and they are not the most populous counties...

I get that this is a poll of polls... can not many of them just be flat wrong? Methodology? Really I do not see any McCain/GOP support in even the 3rd CD, where I live, where the one standing Republican remains. US71 through Bella Vista has more D signs out than I have ever seen. The big issue here is non-partisan, a lottery.

I might think a suprise is in order. (Blue-Dogs voting blue...)