Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

re: Biden Turns on the Gaffe Machine

megga — Tue, 23 Sep 2008 17:52:26 GMT

Andrew, your idea that the weakness of Biden's gaffes is that they signal what kind of VP he might be (distracting the administration) seems pretty weak to me. Sure, any gaffe is bad in that it makes the Obama team look foolish or poorly managed, but I think that's the extent of it. Compare Biden's off-message tendencies to what we've seen from the Bush administration over the past eight years: absolute certainty and agreement throughout an administration is not a positive, but on the contrary has been completely exasperating as the public is never able to get anything but one story or series of talking points from the executive branch. Compared to this, Biden's off-message statements might strike voters as refreshingly honest and genuine, if not necessarily smart for the campaign. Compare this to McCain/Palin's closed-off campaign, and it creates a clear picture of who operates more like the Bush administration and who is offering something new.

re: Biden Turns on the Gaffe Machine

Politicswithagrin — Tue, 23 Sep 2008 17:54:29 GMT

I think that while everyone was staring mouth agape at Sarah Palin, Biden hijacked the straight talk express and is now driving with abandon.

http://www.politicswithagrin.blogspot.com/

re: Biden Turns on the Gaffe Machine

not.Brit — Tue, 23 Sep 2008 18:04:48 GMT

"Distracting a president, a political party and, by extension, the country? Awkward doesn't quite cover it."

Because Sarah Palin hasn't been a distraction? Or Dick Cheney? Or Al Gore? Or Dan Quayle? Or Spiro Agnew?

Come on, Andrew. It's the Vice President JOB to be a distraction. That's Executive Branch Politics 101.

re: Biden Turns on the Gaffe Machine

gingersnap1951 — Tue, 23 Sep 2008 18:12:22 GMT

At least Senator Biden is out talking directly to voters and to reporters, unlike Governor Palin who hides behind her campaign handlers. Besides, all those gaffes just make honest Joe look more like my neighbor, more like a baseball dad -- that seems to work for Palin, right?

Obviously, Senator Biden needs to get back on message, and I'm sure he will, but you may want to re-read your own article before you throw any more stones. You state that, "...so far, Biden's bloopers have been eclipsed by the planet-sized celebrity phenomenon known to us earthlings as Sarah Palin." Indeed, the media has covered Palin as if they were a hired documentary crew, while at the same time largely ignoring Biden's efforts day after day. It seems the Senator is only news when he makes a gaffe, and that is not fair.

America does not have to wait while a candidate crams to get ready to be our next Vice President. America already has a candidate who is an expert on foreign policy, knows domestic economics, and can even balance family and career, too. His name is Senator Joe Biden. He deserves far more respect from the media. He already has mine. Obama-Biden 2008!

re: Biden Turns on the Gaffe Machine

gingersnap1951 — Tue, 23 Sep 2008 18:20:57 GMT

Megga, your comment goes straight to one of the main problems with the Bush-Cheney administration. Group think is a communicable disease that has plagued not only the White House for the last year but also the Republican National Party since Newt Gingrich's Contract ON America. This becomes even more disturbing when you consider how Governor Palin reportedly ran her office as mayor and how she appears to be running her office as governor. A leader that cannot listen to all sides, and actually hear what is being said, is dangerous.

re: Biden Turns on the Gaffe Machine

slapfour — Tue, 23 Sep 2008 18:36:39 GMT

Really Andrew, Biden's a gaffe machine???

As opposed to McCain who:

1. McCain doesn't even know who is in charge in Iran.

2. Iraq/Iran, Sunni/Shia: McCain doesn't know the difference.

3. McCain still thinks Czechoslovakia (which split into two countries in 1993) exists.

4. McCain wrongly claimed that Baghdad was mostly normal.

5. McCain called Baghdad market safe.

6. McCain can't even remember how little he knows about the economy

7. McCain falsely claimed he never requested pork.

8. McCain falsely claimed that tax cuts increased government revenues.

9. McCain's claim to be untainted by special interest money is false.

10. McCain wrongly claimed he never supported amnesty.

11. Thinks Pakistan and Iraq border each other.

12. Thinks Spain is in Latin America

13. Thinks he can fire the Chairman of the SEC

14. Misidentified SIPC and it's role

Need more?

re: Biden Turns on the Gaffe Machine

valark — Tue, 23 Sep 2008 18:53:01 GMT

Why is it everyone always says how badly someone else did to compare them when there is an issue?

If I do something wrong, no matter who else in the whole world does wrong at any level, it doesn't change the wrong I did.

Its common sense. Its so painful to watch these comparisons, which have no meaning at all and attempt to absolve others from responsibility.

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

steveeyes — Tue, 23 Sep 2008 20:01:28 GMT

Man, doesn't McCain tactics of keeping the press in the dark unless you need them for propaganda sound familiar. Bush did it ... it looks more and more like McCain will use the same type of secretive tactics and cover up to distort the truth. Look out...I don't know which is more disgusting...Palin protection from reporters or the resources they used to cover up troopergate. McCain wants transparency in the white house...you got to be kidding.

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

cacatua08 — Tue, 23 Sep 2008 20:55:56 GMT

I've had it with the Republican Fear and Smear machine taking Patriotism as their own personal brand! All of this goes back to Lee Attwater, and it is all a plot to wage war on the Democrats, and it is all a BIG SCAM!!! They actually succeed in making God and Country their own!

This in spite of the fact that all they care about is that they have their money, their guns, their religion, and screw everyone else! They are greedy and self-serving! Under their watch our infrastructure is crumbling because THEY don't want to let go of THEIR miserly money to maintain or fix anything! Starve those government programs! Give the money back to the wealthy in tax cuts, and suck the life out of the middle class!

But it's entirely OK if the middle class goes off to fight in a war that a dim bulb like George Bush & the Neocons wants to fight! A war that the Republican leadership couldn't even fight in an intelligent way! The whole Bush administration has been like a rerun of Dumb and Dumber! Now they have NATIONALIZED Wall Street! This is the party who has made a mantra of getting government out of business! It's OK if government is in your bedroom, or your personal life, or your religion, as long as it isn't in your business.

Well I got new for the Republicans. YOU ARE A BUNCH OF SCREW-UPS! There is no reason on god's green earth that you people should be anywhere near government after '08, so we Democrats are going to take it totally out of your hands! And you can take your fear mongering and race hatred and dirty smear tactics and head down the road! WE'VE GOT YOUR NUMBER - you and that four hundred million dollar sack of wind and s**t, Rush Limbaugh!

It is at least as patriotic for the wealthy people who have had a tax break at the expense of everyone else for the last 8 years to lose it, as it is for the middle class to fight your dirty, mismanaged war of choice in Iraq! So get used to it! Democrats have guns too. They may not be assault rifles, but they throw lead! Send Rush Limbaugh to my house, shooting off his mouth, and after I make a hole in him, you will be able to bury him in shoe box! I' mad as hell and I'm not going to take it anymore. All of you Democrats join me! If the Republicans want to treat elections like war then we'll give it to them!

REVENGE OF THE COMMON MAN!!! - OBAMA/BIDEN '08

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

doclil — Tue, 23 Sep 2008 21:08:18 GMT

AT LEAST HE IS TALKING.

PALIN IS TOO AFRAID TO EVEN SPEAK AND PUT HER FOOT IN HER MOUTH.

I agree with Biden, it's time the greedy rich of this country realize that we are all connected, and that if the "little guy" can't afford a home, that will impact his big millions. We are all interdependent.

it's not a liberal philosophy, it's just good common sense. Let's say things get so bad with the poor of this country, poor health care, etc... can't afford gas, etc. well, then illness and disease will run rampid. What are the rich going to do, sequester themselves, like Sarah Palin?

Okay so once sequestered, they won't be able to leave their confined quarantined areas... by; that time if Palin is president, once McCain kicks it... cuz he's 72... then she will have no animals left no trees left, drill baby drill.... no Beluga Whales, forget the wolves.. okay are ya getting the picture??? at what point is money the ONLY thing driving our country?

How about just doing the right thing, for a change..instead of the GREEDY thing.

God bless.

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

benkrapf — Tue, 23 Sep 2008 21:16:29 GMT

What does McPalin have to hide?

Why won't they let her reins loose?

Why has she not yet given an interview of any substance?

Can't wait for the debates!

GOBAMA!!

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

doclil — Tue, 23 Sep 2008 21:18:46 GMT

cacatua08 - I love what you wrote!

Revenge of the common man! I LOVE THAT and I fully agree.

I really love Biden's "transparency" and "authenticity"...

as opposed to the lies, blatant ones, that McCain and Palin peddle.

I read most of the posts and they are right on the money.

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

K1986 — Tue, 23 Sep 2008 21:30:50 GMT

Megga - How are the democrats offering something new? What change does Obama stand for? The only thing different about Obama is his race... but he's still a dirty politician in a nice suit. Please, I am so done with claims of "change." Democrats need to find a new reason to vote for this man, because no one else is buying it.

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

HarPikada — Tue, 23 Sep 2008 21:34:31 GMT

Ha ha ha! I am laughing so hard my constitution is crying foul. My seizure is based as much on some comments in this forum as the article. It seriously splits me to see some Obamabots hail this train wreck as, erm, authentic, original, beautiful! Ha ha ha ha!

Breaking News: Biden punches Obama in anger.

Obama folks: Did you see that?! Did you see what a brave and courageous man Biden is?! Ah, yes, this man will stand up to anyone. He is his own man. That is what we need. He won't take no crap! I just love his authenticity. Cause, you know, that's what they do in folksy America. Authentic people, you know. They punch ya when they don't like ya. Oh, Lordy, that Biden! Give us a full cabinet of them, God - a full cabinet. Sweet. Small town America. Scranton, Country road take me home...

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

thehappyamerican — Tue, 23 Sep 2008 21:40:56 GMT

Biden believes he is the Senior Man on the ticket because Obama is a junior senator!

Biden wants the Junior Senator to conform to what is now the Biden Campaign!

So much for Obama's leadership skills!!

Obama is increasiingly in the position of having to make clear threw the debates that his VP does NOT speak for the ticket!! And may even bark "enough!" in confusion again!

Biden called Obama's position on gun control malarkey!

Biden is Obama's political lethal injection administered by a DNC which now assumes an Obama Presidency will be more injuriouse to the party than a McCain administration! And Biden WILL remain the VP on the ticket to election day!

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

josemarti — Tue, 23 Sep 2008 21:41:24 GMT

President Obama sent his Special Middle East envoy Jimmy Carter to Tehran today to negotiate the release of Vice President Biden who has been held hostage in Iran for the last 20 months. Mr. Biden is said to be in excellent spirits and is a source of endless entertainment to his captors with his clever impersonations of Golda Meir, Jimmy Durante, and Ethel Merman.

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

cacatua08 — Tue, 23 Sep 2008 21:42:30 GMT

Don't let Republicans get away with it! Hand it right back to them! They don't understand either decency or the high road. They are Bully's and Toadies. They smirk at these things - "Democrats are Suckers!" Wipe the smirks off - fight as dirty as they do. NICE GUYS FINISH LAST!!!!!

REVENGE OF THE COMMON MAN - OBAMA/BIDEN '08

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

yesyoucan2008 — Tue, 23 Sep 2008 21:53:49 GMT

Say what you will about Biden. One thing is for sure, he will not be hiding from the media or taking orders from the President-elect. Obama has stated on more than one occasion that he picked Biden because of his input on foreign/domestic affairs and his ability to work with people. Biden is friends w/ McCain, so would it be alright for him to take some offense. (By the way, he is up there in age as well.) Palin is gaffe proof because she has no access to the media (still on training wheels). When the wheels come off, look for a series of blunders by an out of touch, isolated Governor of one of the least populated states. I think some of Bidens gaffes makes him all the more real. While McCain's misstatements show him to be lost and confused at times.

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

cacatua08 — Tue, 23 Sep 2008 21:54:00 GMT

Yeah, give us some more horrors from the hinterland like Palin, with her soap opera of a family! She makes Obama look like a seasoned veteran! She has a voice like a yowling cat - great for diplomacy! Can't you just see her as an emissary to Russia? "I can see you from my house!"

She sounds like a fugitive from the movie "Fargo". The fact that the Republicans picked her is a statement about how much they hold Democrats and women in contempt. They are laughing themselves silly over the joke!

Joe Biden will smoke her out, and do it with ease and grace. She won't even know how stupid she looks. She doesn't even know how stupid she looks now! HAHAHAHAHAHAHAAAAAAAAAAA!!!!!

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

popmanifesto — Tue, 23 Sep 2008 21:57:38 GMT

How do you call some of these things "gaffes"? I completely agree with Biden about most of these statements and applaud him for saying them. Why the h*ll should I care if some rich guy's taxes go up? I've been footing their bill for too damned long, and here we go again with this Wall Street bailout. It's the S&L crisis all over again - the little guy bailing out the fat cats for their follies, while they walk away with pockets stuffed with money and no punishment for screwing us.

Bush and the Republican Congress cut taxes on the wealthy in a time of war (two wars) and never asked Americans to make any sacrifices whatsoever. Instead, Bush asked us to go shopping, This is leadership? Well, apparently it's the Republican version of leadership. The people who have benefited most from all that this great country has to offer should be called on to pitch in when we're in crisis. I'd be a fool to say otherwise. Or a Republican.

By the way, I also thought the computer ad was terrible. I cringed when I first saw it. And it was yanked very soon after it began running because it was just a bad idea and a lousy ad. Talk about a non-issue! Biden had it right. He's not going to be punished by Democratic voters for speaking his mind and Obama has said repeatedly he doesn't want yes men in his administration. I don't need Biden to be "disciplined." I need him to be fired up and ready to fight the Republican criminals.

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

Mavsreader — Tue, 23 Sep 2008 22:10:26 GMT

Same glasses, different outlook.

Order up me a straight shooter with gaffes any day of the week.

Biden's speech yesterday was spectacular. Too bad it was completely missed by the superficialities that have marred this election.

As for the ad, I don't think it's all bad to have different opinions. The simple fact is Joe is older than Obama and is probably older than everyone that produced that ad. He's going to see it differently. I'd hate for the democrats to turn into the same uno-mind as the republicans. That no dissension thinking got our country into a world of hurt, IMO.

He revised his statement, because the McCain campaign pounced on it. I think it was fine as-is.

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

steveeyes — Tue, 23 Sep 2008 22:19:38 GMT

If Palin is going to be the VP of the most powerful country in the world, she can not hide

from her adversaries. She has to be willing to confront any and all situations. To not do so

is rather cowardly of the McCain camp.

What scares me is how this reminds me of Bush's secrecy in dealing with the public on

matters that should of been disclosed about WMD report with Iraq. Bush kept important

details from us that may of made a difference in us investing lives and billions of dollars

in the Iraq war. We do not need that type of administration running this country.

Add to the fact how McCain's campaign is handling the whole troopergate scenario in trying

to cover it up is a Bush ego tactic all the way. What is hypocritical about how McCain is

handling the Palin troopergate situation is he keeps saying how we need transparency in the

White House. How can we believe he would be upfront with American people when he hides Palin

from the press and spends tons of resources in covering up troopergate. That is not

transparency...that is the same type of Bush tactics that got us in a war, destroyed our

economy and lost the American trust.

I will say one thing. Foreign leaders will praise Palin salivating what it would be like

having her running things if McCain kicked the bucket. Oh god help us.

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

Michael Clagett — Tue, 23 Sep 2008 22:25:26 GMT

With all the serious issues and crises that face us, I can't believe that all Andrew Romano can find to write about is Biden's supposed gaffes. With this article Romano has once again shown himself to be superficial and pedestrian; it's a classic example of the stranglehold that vaccuous journalism has on our public debate. No wonder the rest of the world is looking on in horror as American media stages yet another dumbed-down presidental race. God forbid that Joe Biden express an independent thought that isn't 100% in-line with his running mate. If America elects the Democrats this time, they just might get two people who think about issues and form their own opiniions. Imagine that.

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

cacatua08 — Tue, 23 Sep 2008 22:31:09 GMT

I have seen Joe Biden in action. Do not worry about him. He will do what he needs to do in the debate. He kind of lets it all hang out on the road but when the chips are down he will be focused and ready. Palin will not know what hit her.

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

ConservativeWoman — Tue, 23 Sep 2008 22:31:27 GMT

Biden is the gift that keeps giving. My favorite gaffe was saying that President Roosevelt went on television and addressed the American people when the stock market crashed in 1929. Nice try, Joe. FDR wasn't president and there was no television. Governor Palin is going to eat him alive in the debate. Mmmm pass the popcorn.

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

HarPikada — Tue, 23 Sep 2008 22:40:10 GMT

Michael Clagett: "With this article Romano has once again shown himself to be superficial and pedestrian."

Getting in our face, huh? Determined to silence anyone who dares to question The Messiah. Obama ghetto mob on the prowl again. David Axelrod's astroturfing strategy of faux grassroot indignation going in full flow here I see.

Michael Clagett: "I can't believe that all Andrew Romano can find to write about is Biden's supposed gaffes."

I have a feeling, Mikey, you aren't so strung up when the media discusses McCain gaffes. Now, I agree this job you have of posting for Obama at $8 bucks an hour is better than slogging your ass off cleaning restrooms. Also realize the skills you learnt in those restrooms is coming handy here, But some moderation, perhaps? Perhaps you can think outside the gutter for once?

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

HarPikada — Tue, 23 Sep 2008 22:45:51 GMT

cacatua08: "I have seen Joe Biden in action. Do not worry about him. He will do what he needs to do in the debate. He kind of lets it all hang out on the road but when the chips are down he will be focused and ready. Palin will not know what hit her."

Palin will not know what hit her. Oh, dear me, The gaffe master and his followers. Yeah, keep going, gaffsters. While you are at it why don't you also lay out Biden's plan to slap Palin silly in the debate. Or, to tear her up. How about: Biden will publicly denude Palin in the debate. God help us. Note to Obama camp: DON'T HIRE PIMPLY KIDS WHO SHOW UP WITH T-SHIRTS THAT SAY: MISOGYNY YOU CAN BELIEVE IN.

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

aunkmaa — Tue, 23 Sep 2008 23:16:23 GMT

This does not surprise me with Democrats, "The Lesser of the Two Evils" in our Political System. They seem to never tire of giving their even more evil opponents an opportunity to distract attention away from their *** up ideas and failures. Damn!! I hate the both of them "Dems & Repubs". We ae *** as a Nation..... whether you call yourself " Conser", Lib", Moder" or whatever tha ***!.

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

mccainsupporter — Tue, 23 Sep 2008 23:26:59 GMT

John McCain is an avid reader and is known for rereading many works of his favorite authors. The favorite author of John McCain is Herman Wouk who has written The Winds of War, War and Remembrance, and the Caine Mutiny. Wouk served as an executive Naval officer aboard a minesweeper during War War II and used that experience in forming the character of Captain Queeg in the Caine Mutiny. Victor Henry the main character in Winds of War and War and Remembrance was a naval officer who became a confidant both to FDR and Harry Truman. FDR and Harry Truman went outside the normal channels of military command and relied on Victor Henry for straight talk advice on how to approach Russia and Germany and Japan prior and during World War II. John McCain sees himself as the Victor Henry character who was a realist in foreign policy and understood the nuances of war and foreign policy better than anyone. John McCain is a realist and more knowledgeable about foreign policy than either Joe Biden or Barack Obama due to his experiences and also just growing up as the son and grandson of Navy admirals. Barack Obama and Joe Biden have no military background between them and do not even have the background to know who to connect with to get straight back channel information. Barack Obama and Joe Biden lack the knowledge to even ask the right questions even if they could line up a current day Pug Henry commander to give them the straight scoop. It is totally inaccurate to argue that John McCain is somehow dogmatic in his approach and understanding of foreign affairs. Herman Wouk wove history into his novels. There is saying that those who do not know history are doomed to repeat history. John McCain knows history and has lived it and will use that knowledge to guide the United States through the tough challenges that we face in the war on terror, radical Islam and dealing with a resurgent Russia.

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

Stella58 — Tue, 23 Sep 2008 23:29:16 GMT

I'll take Joe's unfortunate gaffes over Palin's total hypocricy and lack of intelligence any day of the week. Thank you very much.

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

aunkmaa — Tue, 23 Sep 2008 23:32:10 GMT

Posted By: ConservativeWoman (September 23, 2008 at 6:31 PM)

ARE YOU SERIOUS? What is "Conservatism" any freakin way? For your information,the debate format has already been shortened to accommodate your power hungry, super ambitious,Super VP. But being a so-called 'CONSERVATIVE" i guess you see that as a good thing or you probably don't even know that it happened. But let me sum it up this way for you. The ONLY thing Sarah Palin proves is that A WOMAN CAN *** THINGS UP JUST LIKE US MEN AND GOD KNOWS WE HAVE *** UP THE WORLD. So CONGRATULATIONS!! Conservative Women have a new Action Pack Hero who might one day pull the trigger for our Nuclear Armageddon. So enjoy your Pop Corn... but don't whine when she gets her ass spanked by Biden you Damn Hypocrite!

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

mccainsupporter — Tue, 23 Sep 2008 23:33:06 GMT

John McCain picked Governor Sarah Palin because he intends to follow through and make his Project Lexington for United States energy independence the dominant issue in this campaign. Governor Sarah Palin is a strong supporter of increased offshore drilling and she knows that Alaska has an offshore coastline greater than the rest of the country combined and is also comes in second among the states in oil production. Alaska Governor Sarah Palin and John McCain understand that Obama and the Democrats would never consider government loan guarantees or tax breaks for a sure thing that will produce energy for the American gas tank. In fact Democrats are trying to put together a so-called windfall profits tax which will have the effect of discouraging future investment in the United States oil industry. John McCain also knows that Governor Sarah Palin family situation also illustrates that longterm Democratic leadership hostility and policies toward United States owned energy companies have caused our current energy crisis. Her husband works for British Petroleum but instead should be working for the former American owned Arco Oil Company. Arco Oil Company developed and explored the Alaska North Slope and formerly owned eighty percent of our proven Alaskan reserves. With its substantial oil reserves Arco Oil Company should have bought British Petroleum instead of British Petroleum buying out Arco Oil Company during the second Bill Clinton administration. With the right business environment and support from both political parties in the United States, Arco Oil Company might have been more successful and been able to buy out British Petroleum instead of British Petroleum buying out Arco Oil Company. Look at Apple Computer and Microsoft. Their success in the computer world have made them bullet proof to corporate takeovers. Longterm Democratic hostility and opposition to offshore drilling and periodic talk of windfall profits taxes contributed to the takeover of Arco Oil Company.

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

ckeledjian — Tue, 23 Sep 2008 23:33:53 GMT

I don't see any of Biden's 'gaffes' as gaffes. Can't a politician disagree nowadays with an ad made by his campaign? Can't a politician be humble and say that maybe another person would have been a better pick? Can't a politician speak his own mind? I think some people is too used to the Republican way: "we lie, we mess up and we keep claiming we are right, even when the whole media proves us wrong, we stand together and repeat the party's script over and over until we make lies truth". I trust Biden better than most politicians because I know he'll say what he thinks, he won't hide from media, he won't have secrets, he'll open up his tax returns, everything for us to see, as inconvenient to him as it might be. I welcome transparency in politics. It is lack of transparency that took us to a war in the wrong country and put us in this critical economic situation. Obama and especially Biden bring transparency to the White House. But apparently some people still prefer secretive cynic lying bullies like we had for the past 8 years, or McCain/Palin who are already evading media, disobeying court subpoenas, stalling investigations, doing everything for political gain. How many years of this do we need to wake up?

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

aunkmaa — Tue, 23 Sep 2008 23:37:59 GMT

Are you kidding me!

Posted By: mccainsupporter (September 23, 2008 at 7:26 PM)

Then how comes he does not know the difference between " Sunni & Shia ", Kurds & Turkomen" and this is knowledge he should know off the top of his head since he states that the so-called SURGE IS WORKING.. which is total bullshit!! if you saw the GAO report from 2007 & 2008 then you will know that he is full of ***!

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

mccainsupporter — Tue, 23 Sep 2008 23:39:32 GMT

Barack and Joe should support a bailout of AIG. Their proposals on health insurance have helped to undermine investors confidence in AIG’s future profitability and financial prospects.

The economic proposals of Obama dealing with healthcare display a naivete about economics of the health insurance industry. This is unusual because his wife is a hospital administrator with a major hospital in Chicago. In campaign ads and during his acceptance speech, Barack Obama mentions that his mother had to fight with insurance companies during her terminal illness. Barack vowed to eliminate discrimination by insurers. This is doublespeak for banning preexisting condition provisions in insurance company health policies which are the cornerstone of the entire concept of insurance. Health insurance is not like welfare that you can collect if you need it. The economic principle of health insurance is that healthy people pay into the system and only a few draw out. Over a fourth of people in the United States do not have health insurance and many do not have health insurance simply out of choice. People that are in their twenties and thirties and are healthy and may chose to self insure. They are willing to bet that they will no get sick therefore they do not want to pay any premiums. However, if these same people only decide to purchase health insurance when they want to have a baby or a special elective operation or become aware that they have a health condition such as cancer, then the system breaks down. Only sick people will pay into the system and healthy people will opt out because there is no incentive to maintain health insurance. If insurance companies can’t exclude people due to preexisting condition then the rates will become exorbitant for everyone. The rationale behind mandatory auto insurance recognizes that many people are willing to take their chances and drive without insurance. Barack Obama proposal to eliminate preexisting coverage exclusions is like someone without auto insurance having an accident and totaling their car and then going down to the insurance office and taking out a comprehensive policy and demanding the insurance pay for an accident that they had the previous week when they were uninsured.

It is the same principle as life insurance. If you try to buy a new life insurance policy when you are 100 years old the premium is significantly different then if you are six years old. If the premiums were the same for a new policy for a 100 year old person as a six year old person then the whole system would fall apart. No one would buy life insurance until they turned seventy.

Similarly eliminating preexisting conditions exclusions will destroy the economic business model of medical insurance. People will only opt in when they get sick. Insurance revenues and payments do not operate on a straight flow through system. It is based on the risk principle and there has to be risk in order for the model to work. Everyone paying premiums can not be drawing out of the system at the same time.

Michele Obama the wife of Barack Obama works for a hospital and it is amazing that Barack Obama would run ads complaining about insurance company refusals to insure based on preexisting condition. It demonstrates Baracks lack of understanding of economics and simple business practices.

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

Phoenician Lady — Tue, 23 Sep 2008 23:42:02 GMT

I agree with the previous post! I love Joe Biden, even at his most spontaneous, and in general, I agree with him. The fact that he doesn't try to hedge his bets and talk in doublespeak is no drawback to me. Sure, he may not be correct all the time, or on the same page as his boss; but if the chips were down, he would be a man who could be counted on for sound advice, for dedication to his principles and for a high standard of conduct in office.

After 8 years of Dick Cheney, and the prospect of Annie Get Your Gun in the VP slot, we could do one hell of a lot worse than Joe Biden!!!!

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

historybuff1 — Tue, 23 Sep 2008 23:46:05 GMT

Well, at least Biden talks to the media--and can do more than be briefed on talking points. I really find the First Amendment at risk in this election, and wish the media would have some collective backbone instead of collective tails-between-legs. Following Palin around for the same lipstick/ebay/thanks-but-no-thanks-for the bridge comments, when there is no access, threatens our personal liberty. Nancy A. Parkes

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

Soonerthought — Tue, 23 Sep 2008 23:48:37 GMT

So, if he speaks his mind and occasionally makes mistakes, he's a liability? Please. Biden makes his republican counterpart look like a pre-schooler. I'll take Joe Biden, "gaffes" and all over Sarah Lipstick Palin and John Bush McCain any day. Obama is fortunate to have Joe at his side as the Veep debates will demonstrate--that is, if the press does its job and covers Palin for what she is--a cipher.

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

lcs051 — Tue, 23 Sep 2008 23:50:08 GMT

KUDOS to ckeledjian for stating what things how they are:

Biden speaks his mind out and is not a brain-washed robot that only cares about being on message.

Andrew Romano, the author of this piece is apparently too detached from daily life of ordinary folks to appreciate that we all make sometimes mistakes (and then make up for them).

This probably explains why these media elitists got so infatuated with Sarah Palin, and other republicans who are allways on party message and setting personal preferences aside.

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

mccainsupporter — Tue, 23 Sep 2008 23:52:04 GMT

Aunkmaa: The GAO report prepared by the Government Accounting Office is an agency of the Democratic controlled Congress. Most analysts, employees and accountants with the Government Accounting Office are not even Certified Public Accountants or CPAs. They are political hacks chosen upon the recommendation of the more powerful Congressman and Congresswomen. The credibility, independence and integrity of any GAO report is at best speculative.

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

myopinionhere — Tue, 23 Sep 2008 23:54:37 GMT

I'll take Biden ANY DAY over Palain...gaffes and all. No way no how, no McCain/Palain!

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

ToadTreeHugger — Tue, 23 Sep 2008 23:59:40 GMT

Stumper's analysis and material is from Rush Limbaugh.

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

cacatua08 — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 00:04:29 GMT

All of you Republicans are as full of s**t as usual. I wouldn't believe a thing that comes out of any of your mouths because I know that your creed is Fear and Smear. A lie is as good as the truth to you if it makes the point. So do your best and say anything insulting that comes to mind!

Remember Al Gore and John Kerry? Nice guys finish last. Fight fire with fire: Play Republican - play dirty!

REVENGE OF THE COMMON MAN - OBAMA/BIDEN '08

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

libbyl — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 00:07:08 GMT

You are the one who is out of touch, Mr. Romano. America, please, just please, give us elected officials who think - not just those who parrot the party line or who (how has it come to this again?) say nothing substantive but have their attractive pictures put up on the screen while Oz tells us how awesome they would be to sit down (or have a nonalcoholic beer) with. Obama made a very wise choice in Joe Biden. Biden's voice needs to be heard and the media need to grow up and live up to their responsibilities. Obama's not threatened by Biden - Obama is obviously intellectually comfortable with a strong running mate. Biden is smart, experienced, wise. That's what we need, not politicians who are afraid their every utterance will be examined by "journalists" for perceived inconsistency with the media-created persona assigned to them.

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

karronna — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 00:27:11 GMT

i love JOE!

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

bpsays — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 00:28:59 GMT

You the media are always quick to criticize. Go interview Palin, oh I forgot she doesn't interview. one solution to this is to say enough! and be brave to say no more coverare for your campain.

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

ron@ossvc.com — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 00:31:18 GMT

Joe Biden speaks the Straight Talk Express that McCain only dreams of. The FACT is, there is no such thing as "Clean Coal". Coal is the dirtiest and most polluting form of energy being consumed today. However, the coal industry makes hundreds of millions of dollars pulling the garbage out of the ground with cheap labor. So to protect their status quo, they spend millions of dollars on Washington Lobbyists (i.e. McCain Campaign Staff) and push the oxymoron they call "Clean Coal". Bull-feathers!!

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

tree chopper — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 00:31:33 GMT

wow libbyl loves joe biden!!!! maybe the libs can dump obama and prop up joey for president.now that would be entertainment. no coal joe! lets put a solar panel on his head to run his pacemaker.........watch out libbly...T I M B E R R R r r r r r r !!!!!!!!!!!

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

llrine1 — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 00:32:31 GMT

YOU GO JOE!!! Go ahead and vote for them,I want to see how sorry you will be...

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

llrine1 — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 00:33:46 GMT

Libbey I think and Joe would be a perfect match.....uhhhh err ahhh ahh aahh you know ahhh.

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

rwper1 — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 00:34:16 GMT

To me, this only confirms what I've preached to anybody that will listen. Obama's choice of a VP is the best thing that could have happened to the Republican campaign. From the beginning I have said that the only time Joe Biden's foot is out of his mouth is when he's switching feet. If the McCain campaign finally wakes up and discovers that Biden not only has problems with "foot in mouth" disease, but he has both solicited and accepted thousands of dollars from Iranian interests that Biden has aided to stop our country from bacing the UN embargo against Iran. In addition, he has also accepted thousands of dollars from Wachovia in return for his "yes" vote on the most recent revamp of the bankruptcy laws that favored Wachovia and other credit card banks. For an experienced foreign relations "guru" I'm sure not comfortable with his being privvy to Top Secret info and speaking with ANYONE, let alone a foreign government. Even when when he'd open his mouth to friendly powers, he spill secrets even they shouldn't know about. What do you think he'd do with his Iranian friends? So, McCain's not so secret weapon is Biden's mouth, though lately it seems he's got both his feet in it so often you wonder when he has time to say anything intelligent. If Obama is such a great administrator/manager, how come he hasn't explained to "jumpin" Joe that he should engage his brain before letting the clutch out on his mouth. Finally, what brand of Presidential judgment did Obama display when he picked this clown? Personally, I think it's the same kind an inexperienced guy as presidnet would exercise. But since Biden is such a fool, I don't care. He can only help the Republicans , so talk on Joe. But be very careful where you walk!

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

llrine1 — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 00:35:41 GMT

Biden has had thirty fuve years too prepare to screw up this ,leave the poor ole guy alone that's terrible ,sorry joe no punn intended.

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

tree chopper — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 00:35:46 GMT

I LOVE SARAH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! watch out bpsays TIMBERRRRRRRRRRR!!!!!!! there goes another tall cedar.........

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

DirkSparrow — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 00:36:38 GMT

Is that all you have?! I mean really, you're a smart guy, out there on the campaign trail, where most of us cannot be, but we're curious what is really going on, and that's all you can offer? Stop wasting my time! If you think journalism consists of keeping score of the number of inadvertent mistakes a politician makes during the course of a day, you are really missing a fascinating election. If you value staying "on message" over candor, maybe you should take a job with a spin machine. With the economy in crisis, with a Republican candidate who is hermetically sealed off from the media, you can do nothing better than take cheap shots at Joe Biden for supposed "gaffes"? Incredible. Do you media types really think that supposed "gaffes" are the measure of a candidate's ability to govern? I know, never underestimate the intelligence of the average voter, but why cater/pander/stoop to that superficial level? I would prefer a Veep who has met world leaders and grappled with real world problems, who speaks his mind and even disagrees with his boss, over a candidate not trusted by her own cadre of handlers to do anything beyond a photo op. Wake up, buddy, you're missing a great story!

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

beachmark — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 00:37:34 GMT

"All of you Republicans are as full of s**t "

How eloquenty put and so indicative of your ilk.

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

twocspirt2 — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 00:38:44 GMT

Tell me I did't see what I just read. What happened to reporters that cover substance. Oh I forgot, they were out soursed...excuse me all to hell..........

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

Crazson34 — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 00:41:52 GMT

Hey libbyl, Biden is inconsistant! That constitutes a problem. You talk of his experience but what has he done? He's even screwing up his own party. The guy said Hillary might have been a better candidate. I have no problem with a democrat but saying it's patriotic to raise taxes? Come on. Excellent story indeed. Poor OBama though, he screwed up bad!

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

abadreview — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 00:43:41 GMT

Hahaha...that video is the best you can do Romano? No wonder Obama is rising in the polls everyday! After this first debate, this freakshow (McCain/Palin) is over. The GOP is responsible for: endless war, American hatred around the globe, not catching Osama Bin Laden, wiretapping our own people, murdermurdermurder, and now....the biggest economic crisis since the Great Depression. So take all of the little Biden "Gaffes", add 'em up, and the GOP is STILL the party of absolute and utter FAILURE! Obama will win, as he deserves to (compared to the slimy and dishonorable campaign ran by McSAME), and America and the world will be better off bacause of it. It's funny how history's clowns have no idea that they're on the WRONG side.

Obama/Biden '08

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

jaymarah — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 00:44:59 GMT

Mr. Romano,

What about the serious gaffes of John McCain. Why is the media being so kind to this man and his running mate? These two have the potential to be in charge of this country and after what their party has done don't you think it would benefit us all for you to be more assertive in covering them?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iWX5u69hmz

Apparently it doesn't matter that Palin is completely inappropriate for the VP pick and has to be sheltered but Biden who has knowledge and the strength of character to speak his mind and not to hide will be attacked.

Please go back to your COM101 classes

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

beachmark — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 00:45:31 GMT

"If you think journalism consists of keeping score of the number of inadvertent mistakes a politician makes during the course of a day, you are really missing a fascinating election. "

You're kidding, right? Of course that's what "most" journalism is about today. Wish it wasn't, but it is. However, if you're going to criticize a profession, do it with balance or you're no better than those that you aim your critizism at.

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

true_patriot — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 00:45:56 GMT

Republicans defend Palin's differences with McCain as being independent thinking, and a good balance to McCain. So gee golly whiz, when Biden speaks his own mind, it's a "gaffe."

I don't expect Biden to be a clone. Obama has a recored of seeking input from the best and the brightest in our nation (JFK-style "think tanks"). Bush has surrounded himself with loyal "yes men" and we can see where this has gotten us.

At least Biden is experienced and mature enough to step into the role of POTUS if need be. McCain has been very irresponsible in selecting Palin, regardless of whether they are in agreement on everything or not.

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

beachmark — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 00:49:34 GMT

Everyone seems to ignore the fact that this is an article about Biden's gaffes and not an endorsement for either candidate. Take it for what was written.

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

abadreview — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 00:49:36 GMT

"beachmark", don't argue with facts. Sometimes the truth can be put pretty simply. Republicans have made a mockery out of what it means to be an American, from our international standing, to our crumbling economy. From the warrantless war in Iraq, to the lies and propaganda....your party is through. Either wake up, or find yourself on the wrong side of history.

Republicans ARE full of $^%t.

Welcome to 2008.

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

abadreview — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 00:53:17 GMT

Romano sucks!

Spineless little sheep....BAAAHHH...BAAAHHH...

Obama BAD! McCain GOOD!

You are one of history's clowns.

OBAMA/BIDEN '08

YES WE CAN (DEFEAT THE PARTY OF FAILURE)!!!

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

wholeheart — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 00:53:37 GMT

ohmigohs... it's too late to traade biden for hillary, isn't it?

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

pastafarianism — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 00:56:38 GMT

People who believe drilling for oil will have some sort immediate or even mid term impacts on prices confuse me. I have seen lots of claims but no evidence of this supposed fact. Quite the contrary, according to the govt study into this matter "...indicate that access to the Pacific, Atlantic, and eastern Gulf regions would not have a significant impact on domestic crude oil and natural gas production or prices before 2030."

http://www.eia.doe.gov/oiaf/aeo/otheranalysis/ongr.html

Not saying it is necessarily a bad idea, but lets be real about the impact.

Beyond that, Ill take just about anyone over somebody who believes the earth is only 5000 years old. That is absolutely frightening to me! Fortunately for Sen. McCain, I seem to be only one of a few people that were disappointed by his selection.

This biggest disappointment for me has been the negative press campaigning...after so many promises from both sides too...

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

abadreview — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 00:57:10 GMT

OBAMA IS OWNING MCCAIN IN THE POLLS NOW!!!

AFTER THE DEBATES, IT WILL BE ALL WRAPPED UP!!!

FINALLY AMERICA WILL BE IN THE HANDS OF INTELLIGENT MEN!!!

NO MORE FAILURE!!!

FREE AT LAST!!!!

Obama/Biden '08

Anything else would be....un-American

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

abadreview — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 00:58:29 GMT

loriw--put down the crack pipe.

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

rapidrobert — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 00:59:02 GMT

Libbyl, you are as dead-on as can be.... but I am not sure that the bleeting public is ready to ignore the bs artists that pass for journalists these days. It would be so refreshing to have a prominent politician just speak his mind and offer his opinion, instead of checking to see if it is "on message". Maybe I am wrong... maybe we as voters have grown up... but when you see the number of people who spout the party line that Sarah Palin is well qualified to assume the presidency... you have to wonder what the hell they are smoking.

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

ProPsych — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 01:00:17 GMT

mccainsupporter - the planet you live on, Earth, has a limited supply of oil. You can take it out faster or slower, but it will run out one way or the other. The more the government spends on draining that last drop of oil so our gas hog cars can keep running, the less it spends on developing the sources of energy that might allow civilization to exist longer than a few more decades. Go ahead - drill for it, all up and down the Alaska coast if you want. It's a drop in the bucket, a bucket that China will get the biggest share of, anyway. Oh wait - you thought those American oil companies were going to sell that oil to us, didn't you? Ever hear of the global economy - it means the country whose economy isn't tanking gets to buy more goodies. That would not be us.

But go ahead, support your man, if it helps you maintain your delusion that the "United States Oil Industry" isn't on its deathbed. Hey, whatever gets you through the night.

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

REALITY CHECK — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 01:01:00 GMT

Hard to believe! Newsweek is actually saying something negative about the Democrats. Will surprises never cease. Are you certain you cleared this with Obama?

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

ProPsych — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 01:01:41 GMT

loriw - they work well together because she isn't actually allowed to speak. So much for feminism.

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

mccainsupporter — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 01:08:10 GMT

Yes Propsych: we have limited oil but we have almost unlimited natural gas that comes with exploring for oil.

Also, if you think about it John McCain plan for forty-five new nuclear power plants is reasonable, needed and attainable. Our current 108 nuclear power plants supply twenty (20) percent of our electricity requirements. This is amazing considering that it has been thirty years since there has been new construction on new nuclear power plants anywhere in the United States. Construction on new nuclear power plants has occurred throughout the world but not in the United States thanks to Democratic leadership. In France, nuclear power supplies 80 percent of their electricity needs. Because 108 nuclear power plants are generating twenty percent of our needs, an additional 45 nuclear power plants will only increase the percentage of nuclear power to roughly 28 percent of our needs well short of French eighty percent nuclear power generation of electricity. John McCain proposals are reasonable and will help lead us to energy independence. Democrats under the leadership of Barack Obama want to study the issue for another 30 years. By that time the only remaining United States builder of nuclear power plants General Electric will have gone the way of Westinghouse and sold its nuclear construction division to a foreign owned company Toshiba Corporation of Japan. Given the Democratic led hostile business environment for nuclear power in the United States, we will have no United States owned companies capable of building nuclear power plants.

The reality is that few nuclear power plants will have a greater contribution to our relative energy independence than all the combined contributions of solar, wind, and thermal energy. Only the proposals of John McCain on nuclear power, offshore drilling, wind, and solar energy will make the idea of a relative United States energy independence a reality.

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

mccainsupporter — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 01:09:28 GMT

While camping and attending a bluegrass music festival, I took a tour of Comanche Peak Power Plant,the last nuclear power plant built in the United States. The plant is unobtrusive and is at perfect harmony with its environment. It is located near Glen Rose Texas a beautiful area that has bluegrass band festivals in the summer. It is a wonderful scenic country area and home to Dinosaur World and a state park. There are dinosaur tracks from 100 million years ago along the riverbed that can be seen some say are heading in the direction of New York City. The Brazos river flows through and the place is an environmental heaven. There is old green Sinclair Oil Company dinasour statue that stands at the park. Ironically most of the stations and assets of Sinclair Oil Company was bought by Arco Oil Company. Arco Oil Company was a jewell of an American oil company that explored and developed the Alaskan North Slope and at one time owned eighty percent of our Alaskan oil reserves. Arco Oil Company was subsequently bought out later by foreign owned British Petroleum during the second administration of Bill Clinton. The point of this comment is twofold. Democratic hostility toward United States owned energy companies has led to the sale of United States oil companies to foreign interests and that nuclear power plants can even be located next to wonderful wildlife and park areas and make good unobtrusive neighbors. Nuclear power is a friend of the environment and does not emit green house gases.

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

mcbob — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 01:12:54 GMT

As I read the comments posted here I am deeply disturbed. It seems to me that when the media blasts McCain, everyone is on board but when it's Obama's turn, they are being dishonorable. Let's not forget those who fought so you could all write your opinion. See if any community organizing will keep this country free.

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

mccainsupporter — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 01:14:06 GMT

Why is there such an ingrained irrational fear about nuclear energy and waste disposal among some Americans especially the Democratic leadership. Importantly also why is somehow okay for millions of Navy sailors to have served for nearly forty years aboard nuclear power American aircraft carriers and nuclear powered submarines and air force personnel to handle nuclear bombs but some Americans will not consider to even remotely assume any risks involved with nuclear power. Is it okay for our servicemen to be exposed to alleged risks but not the Democratic leadership who oppose nuclear power. This fear is particular evident with the Democrats acceptance of risks that are associated with other aspects of modern American living. Forty thousand people die every year in the United States in auto accidents but there is no outcry to ban all automobiles in the United States. Bridges have collapsed recently in Minnesota and tunnels ceilings in Boston have fallen but there is no consensus on eliminating bridges or tunnels. There have been airplane crashes that have also involved injuries on the ground but there is no outcry to ban air travel. There have been repeated rail and ship accidents but no outcry to ban railroads or ship travel. The irrational fear involving nuclear power and waste disposal has no justification. American people undergo multiple medical and dental xrays and CT scans yearly and have no fear. TSA airport screeners and medical staff work daily around xray equipment, fluoroscopes, and CT machines and do not experience adverse health consequences as a result of their work exposure. There were no documented adverse health events associated with the Three Mile Island release of minor radiation in the 1970s and no payments for health losses were ever made involving lawsuits related to that accident. The containment vessel held at Three Mile Island. In light of most Americans acceptance of risks associated with automobiles, trains, planes, and ships, the fear on the part of some Americans of nuclear power can not be viewed as rational. John McCain's proposals to build 45 new nuclear power plants along with his other energy proposals on conservation and renewable energy will help America achieve relative energy independence in the near term and long term.

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

AKing66 — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 01:14:44 GMT

The president is not the vice presidents boss. Ask Cheney.

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

DaTruthHurts — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 01:16:16 GMT

Kudos, mccainsupporter, HarPikada.

Hey, here's something interesting to all those believers that it's the GOP that destroyed our financial system ...

"The proposed deregulation will increase the degree of monopolization in finance and worsen the position of consumers in relation to creditors. Even more significant is its impact on the overall stability of US and world capitalism. The bill ties the banking system and the insurance industry even more directly to the volatile US stock market, virtually guaranteeing that any significant plunge on Wall Street will have an immediate and catastrophic impact throughout the US financial system."

Reported By Martin McLaughlin

1 November 1999

Uhh, look at the date, folks. 1999. Well thank you, BILL CLINTON. I'm simply tired of the country being misled into believing that over the past eight years, the GOP is singlehandedly behind the financial woes we're in. Fact is, Slick Willie opened up this pandora's box and let the players involved make the game rules.

Did someone say Palin's doing the debate nude?

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

steve02001 — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 01:18:19 GMT

I have always thought that was a risk with Biden. He does have a tendecy of inserting his foot in his mouth. Nevertheless, he is a very intelligent person who can articulate coherent phrases and policies, as opposed to lightweight Pallin, who can only work from a script. And no Hillary would not be better, it would have been a circus; she would be running a shadow presidency and Bill would be too much of a distraction. Plus it would have energized the Republican-Hillary-haters even more. I'll stick with Biden.

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

newage_lightbulb — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 01:18:27 GMT

The hilarious thing about ObamaWeek is that when they try to be impartial, they still show their partiality. Biden's screw-ups are small compared to Palin's! They're inconsequential! They don't matter! We'll parse every word said by Palin or McCain and misrepresent them or purposefully misconstrue them, but when Biden or Obama gaffe, it's not a big deal! Heck, we may not even report it! And then we'll give ADVICE to the candidates we so clearly support!

Liberal MSM FTL. Now I'm going to go watch that classic 30's Roosevelt TV address about the stock market crash. ROFL.

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

jiml1956 — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 01:19:29 GMT

Where are the stories on Sarah's gaffes?

Oh, that's right, she's still quarantined after 4 weeks or so. Can't be allowed to interact with the press just yet.

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

DaTruthHurts — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 01:23:45 GMT

ProPsych -

I assume you rode your bike to work today?

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

jiml1956 — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 01:29:15 GMT

DaTruthHurts,

Care to guess who controlled the House and Senate after the 1998 elections?

Uh, look at the date folks, 1998.

http://www.cnn.com/ELECTION/1998/

GOP lost 5 House seats, but still had the majority.

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

geogaddi_17 — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 01:30:14 GMT

loriw, Biden wasn't picked to be a yes-man, like Palin (yes-woman).

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

checkur_facts — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 01:34:30 GMT

Datruthhurts

Thanks for providing forder that the GOP is behind the entire Wall Street fiasco with your fact checking all the way back to 1999 when the Rebulicans had majority in Congress. Congress is the branch of our governement that generaates bills that get the Presidents approval or veto. Your fact finding does not state that President Clinton approved deregulation of the financial system only that the Republican controlled Congress wanted it.

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

DaTruthHurts — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 01:34:51 GMT

Touche'

Figures someone who has memorized every known written and spoken word from the Clinton Network News would find an angle on that one.

Well done, Jimmy.

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

econ11 — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 01:37:18 GMT

Hey Pastafarianism, Lay off your blanket criticisms of Christian thought. You poke fun at Christians for their belief surrounding our origins. Problem with that is that every democrat elected to the presidency (and running this time around) has espoused those same beliefs rooted in Christian tradition. So do you think of those in your party as politcally motivated liars, or just as poor thinkers? Either way you just made the case that your guys either have weak backbones, or weak minds and that is not the "change that we need".

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

checkur_facts — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 01:39:55 GMT

Would you say that socialized financing turned out better then socialized healthcare?

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

jiml1956 — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 01:40:37 GMT

mcbob,

I admire and respect McCain for his service in Viet Nam and what he went through back then.

But I don't think he's the right person to be President.

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

morningstar_tx — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 01:42:13 GMT

ProPsych, I hope you walk or bike to work everyday. You obviously don't care for us to spend a little bit less on our oil bill so we can spend more on alternative energy. Better yet, I guess you don't want AMERICAN to make a little bit more so we CAN buy precious oil away from China. If those are not your point then WHAT IS YOUR POINT? MACAIN SUCKS NO MATTER WHAT???? Because he's a Republican and not a Democrate and he automatically is bad? What if Obama supports additional drilling in any way, shape, form? All the sudden this is okay then?

I am a engineer by trade and I support developing alternative energy in a competitive, measureed manner. Currently there are way too much alternative energy technologies that are too far off from being materialize as a true viable alternative. Spending too much, too fast on those projects are nothing but wasting money on someone's pipe dream. Any technology geniuses with their name shown in public will tell you it takes relenteless drive, and disciplined spending on the R&D (not too little nor to big) in order to make it a success.

There are some other technologies, such as compressed natural gas for the vehicles, can use a little bit of government intervened negotiation between all the major automobile companies to come up with a standard. Mandate every major auto companies to participate, coming up with a unified standard on key components (connectors, etc.), and to follow up with the implementation into their fleet for sale. Surely most companies will whine and cry of government interterence, however they are the one who will eventually reap the benefit of selling more and updated vehicles that are better for the environment and the away from the Big Oil.

It is not about who is in charge. Ultimately it is about if the one in charge can forge committments from the major players. We just might have another booming season after we figure out a solution together, instead of crying that developing countries like China will over take us eventually. The tenacity and ingeniuity of the Americans are our key to our success. It has always been in the past; it will still be the key for our success (and survival) in the future.

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

jiml1956 — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 01:43:30 GMT

DaTruthHurts,

I'm very much anti-Clinton (either one).

But I'm switching sides this year.

Had to call you on the facts.

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

checkur_facts — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 01:44:05 GMT

Econ11

The only issue I have with creationism is explaining where oil comes from. Creationism only offers a 5000 year window of human existence. This is counter to currnet scieentific fact finding. If creatism is to be taught is willl have to be as a belief system. 5000 years ago man became sentient but had not been touched by god for 1 million years.

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

mill_high_life — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 01:44:05 GMT

Sarah Palin has been kept ut of the media spotlight for weeks now unless she is with McCain, because she can't speak on her own. Biden makes and few open mouth insert foots which everyone does only he gets noticed since he is a vice presidential candidate and yet George W Bush is still the President of the United States after 8 REALLY long years and Al Gore invented the internet.

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

newage_lightbulb — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 01:44:39 GMT

"Figures someone who has memorized every known written and spoken word from the Clinton Network News would find an angle on that one"

With debaters like this, who needs enemies. The fact that the slight majority Republican congress created the bill doesn't abdicate responsibility for Clinton passing it, or the vast numbers of Democrats who voted for it. The Democrats want to make this a Republican fiasco but everyone knows it isn't.

And if you haven't seen the media coverage of everything Sarah Palin does, you're either blind or an idiot. The MSM is so clearly biased in this election that it's pathetic.

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

newage_lightbulb — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 01:45:41 GMT

"Sarah Palin has been kept ut of the media spotlight for weeks now unless she is with McCain"

Folks, Democrats can't even tell time.

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

jiml1956 — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 01:49:43 GMT

newagelightbulb,

What do you mean by -

"And if you haven't seen the media coverage of everything Sarah Palin does, you're either blind or an idiot."

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

checkur_facts — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 01:50:20 GMT

Morningstar_tx

I am looking at alternative energy fuels a regional issue. Biofuels in the midwest and plains state coupled with wind energy. The south can operate on natural gas (AR) or soy bean and even solar energy. I am not familar with the northeast or far Western states to draft up regional alternative energy sources that can be used.

It is impractical for the country to enforce a standard alternative energy source through out the country. It is far better that the states develope the regions resources for the good of its people. It is better to act locally prior to globally.

The saddest thing that comes to my mind about alternative energy sources is that Europe is a generation ahead of the United States.

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

checkur_facts — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 01:52:24 GMT

New_age

The posting referered to a bill and a secondary comment and not a source sighting Presidnet Clinton's approval or veto of said bill. The subject matter only references a bill.

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

Dr. Sam — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 01:54:33 GMT

ON BIDEN’S GAFFES AND HIS DESTRUCTIVE STATUS

Biden is so disappointing--so much so that you begin to wonder whether that brain aneurism has something to do with it (bad enough for a potential Vice-President), or he is a McCain agent (a double agent in disguise), or still a Hillary Clinton agent trying to derail Obama's campaign so Hillary can run for president in four years. Whatever is the truth here, Biden has been so damaging to Obama's chances in a tight race. What a candidate don't want to do is to become negatively the story, which takes away from the message and the issues. Biden has become the story--and much worse than Palin--Palin at least energized her Party; Biden is not doing this simply because of his one step forward and two steps backward. The Obama campaign was very disciplined and spoke with one voice until previously outside parties came into the fold. Now is the time to tell Biden who is the boss now. It is not enough to simply say, "This is Biden; take it or leave it." Biden campaigned seriously to be Obama's running mate. Shame on him if he thinks he has the right to ruin Obama's campaign, and return to the Senate as Chair of the Foreign Relations Committee. A man who speaks or does anything before he thinks is not fit to be either a running mate or Chair of a Senate Committee. His bungles explain why he couldn't get traction in the primaries. The man is washed up! And perhaps more telling, he is egotistical and unable to apprehend the bigger picture.

--Dr. Sam

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

DaTruthHurts — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 01:55:05 GMT

Say it ain't so Jim -

Well, that's OK. I wouldn't want to be the guy who ends up dealing with this mess over the next four years, either.

B.O. can kiss his healthcare package and everything else goodbye, McClaim wouldn't find two nickels to rub together towards his education programs as either candidate looks pretty well poised to be booted after the first four years anyway.

Hey Checkur - thanks for the School House Rock lesson on how to become a bill - I musta missed that episode when I was a kid.

Did he sign it?

Thought so.

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

hmoo11 — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 01:56:06 GMT

Ok folks game over. It is your damn patriotic duty to pay your taxes. I'm not wealthy but I'm damn sure willing to pay my share when MY BROTHER and 2 of HIS SONS have gone into the service to fight for this country. You self-rightous sissies spend too much time listening to millionaire commentators like Rush who claims to be so D..M Smart and is the biggest phoney in America. If he knew as much as he claims, why doesn't he put up the microphone and run for The Presidency Of The United States. He won't. Its too good making millions hiding behind his mic.

Now, back to the rich folks, Sorry to inform you but they have accountants and lawyers to look out for them so that they don't pay too much in taxes. They also have the resources to make more money so get off the rich shouldn't pay taxes bench. They pay taxes on income. That implies that they were doing something other then sitting around feeling sorrow for themselves about being taxed. George Bush has given them a gold rush in devalued houses to buy to further their income stream.

Today somewhere in America a mother making less than $25,000 a year is crying her heart out because her son or daughter has given his or her life in service of just the poor people of this country. How righteous, how self-serving it is for them to pay a tax on "earned income".

Wow. I suppose it might take away 4 of their 8 yearly vacation trips.

Yes. It is patroitic to pay your taxes on money earned in this country.

Biden's right.

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

checkur_facts — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 01:57:44 GMT

Did he sign that bill in question? There is nothing in the dicussion boards stating he did.

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

Minnesotan — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 01:58:18 GMT

I'll take Biden's gaffe's over palin's lies anyday.

If they are allowed to stay on the issues Obama and Biden will widen their lead. I'm so tired of and angered by McCain's lies, that I'm beginning to think less about the issues myself, and more about the fact that We've had eight years of lie's starting on election night 2000 and now they want us to let them have another four years, so they can finish destroying the country. It's not going to happen. It can't happen. I want the country to survive. All of us. Not just the wealthiest few. McCain strikes me as someone who cares very little about the issues and very much about getting elected, saying anything, and counting on good old stupidity, of the american people to elect him. Everytime I hear him say, " I've been very clear on this." He gives us that smile that tell's me he's really trying not to laugh at his lie. ENOUGH!!

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

checkur_facts — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 02:01:22 GMT

What creeps me out the most among this mess is that instead of increasing the purchasing power of an individual, everyone thought it was better to use credit and enforce loaning as the only means to purchasing a lifestyle.

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

jiml1956 — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 02:03:09 GMT

DaTruthhurts, yes it is so. Palin moved me to the other side.

I'd also hate to be the next pres that inherits this mess we got ourselves into.

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

ckeledjian — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 02:04:50 GMT

On the issue of drilling, this is all I can say: all expectations of having some gain from oil drilling agree that we will see nothing for at least 10-30 years. On the other side, electric cars with engines only for the purpose of recharging the battery and can run 40 miles on ZERO gas can be expected... next YEAR! We are far closer to solve the problem by reducing oil consumption and exploring alternative energy than drilling offshore or destroying a wildlife reserve. In the end, we'll run out of oil anyways, so we will need the alternative energy. So, alternative energy is faster, more long term solution than drilling and better for our planet. Let's face it: if it wasn't for the extreme power of the oil industry that finances our political leaders, we would have switched to alternative energy long ago. We need to stop this BS now, stop letting the oil conglomerates to run our country while they drain us all and focus our efforts on our future.

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

oversplayer — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 02:06:10 GMT

This country's electorate simply defies comprehension.

Eight years of Republicasn rule have "accomplished" the following: (1) a war based on out and out lies to the public which has resulted in the deaths and maiming of thousands of America's bravest young men and women; (2) an economy in absolute shambles; (3) a full frontal assault upon constitutional protections; (4) a national discussion about the "benefits" versus the "detriments" of torture; (5) millions of children without health insurance coverage; (6) the highest rate of home foreclosures ever; (7) the intentional commission of criminal conduct by high ranking members of the administration (e.g. the outing of Valerie Plame); etc., etc., etc.

So what do the Republicans offer us for the next four or eight years? A 72-year old presidential candidate who has voted with George W. Bush more than 90% of the time and a 44-year old veep candidate who has less than two years of experience in politics and government beyond the municipal level,. no foreign policy experience whatsoever, a history of using the power of her office to exact vengeance on perceived enemies, extremist, medieval views on social issues, and such a massive lack of the minimum qualifications to be the leader of the free world that her campaign operatives refuse to allow her to be questioned on any subject by either the press or the people of this country!

And this election contest is currently a dead heat? What in the world am I missing?

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

Solanum1968 — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 02:06:49 GMT

What an absurd smear article. Infotainment at its best.

Obviously i'm not going to spin wheelchairgate except to say that sometimes he doesn't mentally filter out comments, no matter how well meaning they might be. As to his 'patriotic tax paying' comment. Again he was right, but didn't provide context to it. I grumble about taxes as much as most people, but what do the tax hating hordes in this country think pays for our wonderful military? infrastructure? anything? Do they in any way think we're better off borrowing money from foreign countries? Paying taxes to support your country IS patriotic. It's time for the corporate fatcats to foot the bill of turning this country around and give the rest of us a break.

I can't even comprehend that you'd criticize him for his comment to Katie Couric. I'm an Obama supporter, I agree with Joe. It was a stupid and pointless ad. So he disagrees with the campaign. What's the big deal Andrew? Were you asleep when Obama said he didn't want a Vice President who agreed with him on everything? Do you not agree that such criticism is helpful, no matter where it comes from? You equate it to him criticizing something like Obama's 2 minute Economic Plan ad. Way to go spinmaster.

Maybe it's the mainstream media who is out of touch.

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

DaTruthHurts — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 02:07:31 GMT

Checkur -

Ok, Ok, I get the point - Jeez, here it is. You don't have to be so passive-aggressive ALL the time do you?

http://banking.senate.gov/prel99/1117glb.htm

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

checkur_facts — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 02:11:00 GMT

I dont want to see oil drilled for consumer America from any of the natural widlife reserves. This is a COLD WAR STRATEGY. If at any time the America was to come under attack by a superpower or if GOD forbid a global catastrophe occured, I would like to think that these last refuges of natural oil would supply the Amercian Military to defend its land and territories.

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

newage_lightbulb — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 02:12:17 GMT

LOL, I love the Obamaniacs claiming McCain voted with Bush "90% of the time". Guess who voted with Bush more?

THE DEMOCRATS.

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

jiml1956 — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 02:12:54 GMT

checkurfacts,

2 things -

1, When Greenspan had the rate down to 1% it made business sense to borrow at the low rates.

2. Love your take on alternative energy. Can't the US start by getting electricty production towards solar? I've seen some articles in Fortune and others about solar farms. When you fly around this country look at all of the open spaces we have. Solar farms produce zero emissions.

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

econ11 — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 02:13:03 GMT

check_urfacts

This is not a referendum on the merits of creationism and debating the finer points of our beginings can't be thoroughly done on a comment wall. My real point was that IF your believe Christian thought to be fatuous and asinine then consider that both sides of the ticket claim the same "wacky" Religious thought. Hardly a reason to begin a one sided character assasination wouldn't you say?

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

hmoo11 — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 02:13:34 GMT

McCain can call for 45 nuclear plants all he wants. He knows what happened in North Carolina recently when a wind farm project was proposed in our mountains. The people in that heavily republican area of our state would not approve of it so it didn't happen. Maybe he didn't know about it.

As a politition it is easy to say I'll build 45 nuclear power plants across America when you're not even in office. If it doesn't happen because no one wants them in their backyards, well, at least he said it right. I believe we need more of these plants. I just don't trust someone who doesn't tell the truth and has no more respect for this country than to select Palin for VP to be involved in those kinds of decisions.

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

newage_lightbulb — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 02:14:04 GMT

How ironic. Obama moved me to the other side. This country doesn't need an empty shell spouting populist rhetoric and learning the job on the fly. We need a leader. We need John McCain.

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

Hybrid023 — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 02:16:57 GMT

Andrew Romano, you're a dipshit.

Not one of your supposed gaffes actually has a downside. What an enormous freaking surprise, Barack Obama and Joe Biden are two different people with two different opinions. Is THAT why we didn't elect Biden to be the nominee, no ***!

Effing moron. It actually makes the ticket stronger to show that two pols can disagree civilly and still be on the same side.

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

newage_lightbulb — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 02:17:17 GMT

"And if you haven't seen the media coverage of everything Sarah Palin does, you're either blind or an idiot"

Palin is all people talk about, all the time. They monitor everything she does and says and spin it to be as negative as possible. The liberal media (is that redundant?) has been doing nothing but mocking and gainsaying her since she came into the spotlight. Claiming that the press has been "hands off" on Palin or McCain is just ignorant or dishonest. They're clearly advocating Obama.

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

jiml1956 — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 02:19:10 GMT

newage,

Still confused by your earlier Sarah comment. McCain's choice of her is what made me vote dem for the first time in my life.

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

checkur_facts — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 02:22:54 GMT

thx DaTruth

I wiki'd it a bit more and that bill was Veto proof with over 90 in the Senate for and 362 in the House. Bill couldnt stop it.

What it did do was create the monolithic financing institutions today. Ten years later they are falling down.

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

jiml1956 — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 02:24:43 GMT

My problem with Sarah is that they have quarantined her for 4 or 5 weeks.

If Sarah had run for President a year ago, what would the Republican's have said about her then?

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

k9mom — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 02:25:16 GMT

Who cares about who is screwing up the language and flip-flopping when caught off guard. Look there are real problems in this country right now. We're on the brink of collapse. Rather that looking at Biden's gaffes would it not be more beneficial to us folks out here in neverland who will most likely never sit down and talk with our candidates to know exactly what they plan to do and when they plan to do it? How the heck are they going to get us out of the mess we're in?

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

libi — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 02:26:27 GMT

Biden doesn't "stay on message", but he tells the truth. That's why I like him.

A lot of people thought that it was wrong to bail out AIG; but it was bailed out because it was "too big to fail". Now we have Wall Street begging us for $700 billion. It's like feeding stray cats. Now they seem to expect it.

And Biden was right on the 80's ad. Kids might have liked the ad, but Obama already has the young vote. The ad had no purpose and probably annoyed the older vote that Obama needs.

The only thing that I don't agree with Biden is having Clinton as VP. Biden is a good man and he'll make an excellent partner with Obama.

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

newsweekd12 — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 02:27:40 GMT

The rich are already carrying the lazy liberals in this country. For the record, as of calendar 2004: 1) the top 1% in income paid 19% of the taxes; 2) the top 5% of income earners paid 57% of the tax; 3) the top 10% income earners paid 68% of the taxes. Oh, BTW, the bottom 50% of income earners paid 13% of the total taxes. Those numbers are according the IRS annual report. Those percentages change very little from year to year. Is it too much to ask the bottom 150,000,000 people in this country to start carrying their own weight?

Joe Biden is a total hypocrite here. His own contributions to wealth redistribution are as follows for the last 10 years (Year/AGI/Charity):

1998 $215,432 $195

1999 $210,797 $120

2000 $219,953 $360

2001 $220,712 $360

2002 $227,811 $260

2003 $231,375 $260

2004 $234,271 $380

2005 $321,379 $380

2006 $248,459 $380

2007 $319,853 $995

Joe, when you get more "patriotic," I'll get more patriotic. You cheap slug.

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

desertman — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 02:27:44 GMT

Posted By: Minnesotan (September 23, 2008 at 9:58 PM)

I'll take Biden's gaffe's over palin's lies anyday.

Lies? It figures that a minnesotan would spew this B.S. let me guess your either in St.Cloud ? Mankato or the twin cities? Or perhaps from the home of communist Gus Hall the Iron range? Either way your a typical backwoods minnesotan who knows nothing but the liberal crap that your local college professor pumped into your tiny little brain and or your a democrat because your great great grandparents were democrats and you cant see two feet in front of your face! It is you Libs that have been doing nothing but *** up america for the past 50 years!

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

DaTruthHurts — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 02:29:45 GMT

Thx Checkur -

I hope we learn from this one & make serious steps to stave off this type of greed in the future.

Gotta run now, I've got a busy day of closing on dozens foreclosure bids all day tomorrow. Cha-Ching.

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

checkur_facts — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 02:30:44 GMT

Jiml1956

When rates were low as 1% the Republican Adminsitration used the Job Creation Act of 2003 to sucker the Small Business man in to purchasing SUVs that were complete tax write offs. At the time a HUMMER could be purchased for business use and write off its entire value that year (100K+). There was no growth only a bubble.

Again growth did not occur with the housing industry either only a another bubble that this administration blew its hot air into.

At the end of Bush's Adminstration the two bubbles created are popping, big vehicle and big houses.

Where is the growth of our nation in that?

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

everettdiggles — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 02:30:44 GMT

Posted By: ron@ossvc.com (September 23, 2008 at 8:31 PM)

"Joe Biden speaks the Straight Talk Express that McCain only dreams of. The FACT is, there is no such thing as "Clean Coal". Coal is the dirtiest and most polluting form of energy being consumed today. However, the coal industry makes hundreds of millions of dollars pulling the garbage out of the ground with cheap labor. So to protect their status quo, they spend millions of dollars on Washington Lobbyists (i.e. McCain Campaign Staff) and push the oxymoron they call "Clean Coal". Bull-feathers!!"

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

Hey eco-terrorist moron, go do a little research on combine cycle coal gasification & C02 sequestering - it's much "cleaner" than the way coal power plants burn it currently. Considering that most mines here in the U.S. employ unionized workers, I wouldn't exactly call them cheap labor. Perhaps you, an elitist left-wing ***, have a problem with blue collar workers making a livable wage - how condescending!

And btw, to reduce our dependance on fossil fuel for power generation, it's going to take more than wind-turbines & solar. It's going to take massive upgrades to the national grids & increased nuclear power generation. It's simple physics, the average coal-fired power plant generates 1,000MW - the average utility wind-turbine produces only 2.5MW. The average nuclear power plants generates 1200MW of green-house emissions-free electricity. There are also other issues to consider, such as voltage regulation - reactive power (MVAR's) - grid stability. A wind-turbine's generator does not have large enough exciter with large an enough reactive power profile to provide effective voltage regulation on a massive scale - especially when one is calling for the shut down all coal-fired generation.

It's stupid people like you, who blindly jump on the Al Gore bandwagon without any basic knowledge of the feasibility, capital, and consequence of a (non-nuclear power / non-clean coal), so-called 100% green "energy plan".

Considering that I've worked in the power generation industry for 10yrs, I know more about these topics than you do.

I suggest you read this article;

http://www.powermag.com/ArchivedArticleDisplay2.aspx?a=08-DEPT_SOP&y=2008&m=september

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

jiml1956 — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 02:30:47 GMT

DaTruthHurts,

Do we really want Phil Gramm now? Don't you think he's in line to be a McCain cabinet member?

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

garylynn1957 — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 02:33:34 GMT

Obama really messed up by picking Biden. He should have picked Hilliary. She's a better choice....Biden said it himself.

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

dukes13 — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 02:34:32 GMT

If we as a country need a leader who is 72 years old then something must be wrong ,

what is it can anybody help me please

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

hmoo11 — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 02:35:06 GMT

By the way folks. It is also the rich executives who decide to send American jobs and technogy overseas so they can make more bucks.

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

nottheenemy — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 02:35:51 GMT

"Media" is a description of various conduits of information. A medium is an impartial entity. It has no agenda. It only transmits information. To say it has a political affiliation or advocates for a candidate is like saying "my bumper supports McCain because I put a McCain sticker on it." The media, TV, internet, papers, have various owners, mostly corporate, who have an agenda, and the agenda is not liberal. The reporters are not even allowed to speak to Palin, have never been allowed to speak to Bush unless it was carefully scripted, and are constantly harassed by other members of the media if they do not give equal time to Conservatives after an open interview with a Democrat. So, to answer "newage_lightbulb's" question, no. "Liberal Media" is not "redundant" because that makes absolutely no sense on the literal or figurative level.

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

jiml1956 — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 02:40:13 GMT

checkur_facts,

We're on the same side. The 1% interest rates are what caused this problem.

Greenspan is advising McCain.

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

hmoo11 — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 02:42:44 GMT

Who the hell cares about that damn income distribution percentages of what rich people pay. What they tell us is that the weathy have been doing quite well. Show me the income percentages of our soldiers in the military. Break down the income brackets of the mothers and fathers of our armed services. Tell me how much a disabled vet makes. The rich will get richer as long as they aren't totally stupid.

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

clikdawg — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 02:45:53 GMT

The trick for the 'Rats -- as it was in 2004 -- is how to take a dive that don't LOOK too much like a dive.

Especially after the 2006 elections, when the Dems provided virtually none of the Great Things on which their electoral resurgence was based, the country will demand that they actually deliver Meaningful Change if it sends Obama to the White House -- and Meaningful Change (in the way Obamanauts have been preaching) is not just exactly what the folks who really run this country have in mind for 2009 and beyond.

So let's stick the upstart with a mouthy Eastern-establishment Liberal with little appeal where Obama's gonna need it, and let him self-destruct in the time-honored way he always does outside of his home state. Bingo! You got your war continuing on your own terms, your transfer of wealth continuing unchecked, your Washington clique virtually intact -- all the things that both parties really want, but that the 'Rats have to pretend to be against to preserve the illusion of a True Two-Party System.

He doesn't even have to screw up that bad for the thing to fly -- just enough so the media can begin to carp about Obama's judgment and continued viability. Kerry could be counted on to do the job of *** up a wet dream all on his own; St. Barack's gonna need a little help, despite his poor showing ever since the convention.

Dog. And. Pony. Show.

Period.

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

TinaFeign — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 02:46:02 GMT

What a lame article. Sorry Andrew. I know it's not your fault: your boss put you up to it. If that's all you could come up with for gaffes, then Joe is looking real good. As for Palin, I think calling her planet-sized is an exaggeration. She's just plump. Seriously, she is nothing more than a marketing package. She has little real substance. She's the girl in high school that spent the whole class doodling. In that way, she's a good match for McCain.

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

talk21 — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 02:52:39 GMT

Senator Joe Biden appears to be a good person. I actually like the fact that he will try and answer questions....."without thinking"....on a regular basis.

So many people in leadership, try and just....wait, think, analyze...and then, answer questions, while understanding that in the media-driven age of today...."Every word matters".

It's nice to see that the Democratic VP Candidate ....talks...1st...then, ...talks...tsome more...and then,...maybe about 5 hours later, actually "thinks" about what he should have said.... I mean why "think about how your words will be perceived, by the world out there"?.......

HE's making Govenor Palin, look like the "intellectual", in the VP race! Go JOE!!

I did not support Senator Hilllary Clinton, because I personally do not like her policies. However, Senator Obama's decision to "not select her for VP" ....is looking POLITICALLY FOOLISH!! " An OBAMA/CLINTON ticket would be a 100% winning hand. Why did he not go for the WIN?

Sometimes you have to "compromise" to get the "bigger prize".....The Democrats might actually "LOSE" this election...when, by all political accounts...they should WIN easily...

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

hmoo11 — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 02:54:45 GMT

Greenspan is advising McCain. So. Who the hell didn't say anything when the fed went through all the rate hikes they made. If you look here you might get to the beginning of the tailspin. If Obama wins I'm sure Mr. Greenspan will be more than available. If these are all there is to Biden's "gaffes" he must be pretty happy with the attention. At least he hasn't told any lies.

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

nottheenemy — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 02:57:21 GMT

newsweekd12, Oh, now I get it. The rich are conservative, the top 1%, and the poor and middle class ( anyone below, what, 5 million per year?) are lazy liberals. That's why the Democrats win every election by 99 points every election cycle. Oh, wait, you said lazy, so that contradiction could be explained this way: 98.9 % are too lazy to vote, so that's why the conservatives win major elections. BTW, I'll put my tax bill up against yours any day, in real money and proportionally to our income. I find it hard to believe that someone with real money would actually waste time commenting on a message board. The real money is spinning the actual election message - the one you have consumed and are regurgitating here.

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

brosatolane — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 03:08:45 GMT

Hmmmmm......let's see..........if Biden screws up enough, maybe he'll be asked to leave the ticket so HILLARY can then join and become "The Dream Team." Sounds like a GREAT thought to me. Then we would have clearly opposite women--one who has intelligence, experience, and is savvy enough to know how to conduct herself in any situation......plus cameras would be ENCOURAGED to tape interviews and no questions would be off limits The other one looks put together on the outside but I prefer to know that the brain inside is working at full capacity. If anyone has to be a "heartbeat" away from the Presidency, the ONLY woman I want to see there is Hillary Clinton.

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

nottheenemy — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 03:13:23 GMT

Hey Andrew, you do realize that Joe Biden was talking about "dirty coal plants," right? China is building old-school coal plants, and he said we are not building them here in America, but if they build them there, we have to find a way to clean them up because it effects us. He said nothing about clean coal plants in the U.S., the kind the campaign advocates, unless I missed something. (Which is possible since the audio is not 100% clear.) If there was a gaffe there, it was that he did not answer the girl's exact question.

Speaking of such things, isn't it nice to be able to see and hear a candidate who is not afraid to take questions off the cuff and in full view of the media? That alone is a major plus for the ticket. Biden may not like this comparison, but Reagan was the same way, at least in the first term. His press conferences made his presidency and his re-election, so called "gaffes" and all.

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

peterandall — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 03:18:07 GMT

McCain and Obama have said nothing about what they would do regarding the current financial crisis. The first one that says they will put all those involved in any illegal transfers, stock manipulations, insider trading, bonuses etc, in jail—will win the election.

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

morrison789 — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 03:18:24 GMT

There is nothing wrong with what Biden said throughout this article. Obama is said from the begininning that he would have people around him that disagree just like Lincoln. That is what makes this country so great. We can disagree and not get our heads chopped off for it like in other countries. I look at it this way I am a poor white male from West Virginia with student loans and Obama/Biden are going to help the most with my future. McCain is not going to help me or any other poor college student trying to make their way. My generation has to stand up in this election.

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

mas75mle — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 03:18:34 GMT

I read that "JOE" said that FDR explained the crash of 1929 to the american people on television. Too funny !! FDR was not the president in 1929 and there was no TV until the 1940's. Too say something like that is just pure idiot !! I guess we know why he needs to copy from others.......

demo-dope

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

brosatolane — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 03:22:12 GMT

If the government has all this money for the titans of Wall Street, what about all the families losing their homes because of some greedy lenders who had their eyes on THEIR profits and didn't care that they were leading people down a path of disaster. Let the CEO's of these failing companies give up their "severance" packages and help people facing foreclosure.

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

kcwolf — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 03:23:12 GMT

Biden, is completely out of his mind. He has been in Washington for so long, he doesn't know what is going on in coal industry here in the US or anywhere else. I guess too many payraises at the taxpayers expence & to many vacations have made him brain dead. This is a VP choice, wow what a wasted selection of VP. It would not of mattered which side chose this loser.

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

rubberneck — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 03:26:29 GMT

I can't wait till the debate. Biden will talk his a$$ off, and blow it completely.

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

phud55 — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 03:27:32 GMT

rumor has it that Biden is going to fake a medical condition and drop out as VP and Hillary is going to step in.How predictable and pathetic!

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

Kate Mom with Twins — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 03:31:09 GMT

I am delighted that Joe Biden can speak for himself, doesn't need a script and doesn't agree with Obama on every single thing. Obama made it clear when he picked Biden that he chose him because Biden would challenge and inform his decisions and not simply be a "yes man" that would slavishly follow every talking point and be unable to think independently. I will give you credit that you acknowledge the Republican's abject failure to present their VP selection for anything other than tightly controlled and entirely scripted appearances. But I don't consider these "gaffes." I consider them honest statements that differ from the top of the ticket and I agree with the comments that it is very Lincolnesque for Obama to welcome that challenge. Finally, I think it shows Obama's strength of leadership, confidence and wisdom that he chose Biden (who would not always agree with him) and not Hillary - who (as much as I love her) always had too much baggage for the campaign to carry.

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

kcwolf — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 03:33:24 GMT

did any catch that congress whats the taxpayers to bail out the American auto industry. also to bail out those who have fallen behind in auto payments not to mention home owners who, took out loans that they knew they could not pay back. I would not be surprises that congress will have us the taxpayers pay for their many many homes & auto's too. This is Congress's fault for not trying to fix it over 3 years ago. Since the 2 parties can't get along or find any common ground, maybe we the people should take them all out of office & start over. The white house has some blame too, but not nearly what congress & lenders do. But we must not for get those who took loans on homes they could not afford or just didn't want to pay for in the first place. I say no to it all for we taxpayers are already stretched to limit.

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

ChicoCDM — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 03:33:45 GMT

Nice dysfunctional partnershp they have there. So Biden was supposed to help Obama with the things he was lacking in - knowledge of the world, foriegn policy credentials. Sounds like a pair of Motley Crews to me. You have the most inexperrienced presidential candidate in 100 years paired with the most accident prone senator in 100 years. A match made in blooper heaven.

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

dr doug — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 03:33:52 GMT

I really, really like Joe Biden and was really happy when he was named Vice Presidential nominee but, gees, he sure can slip up a lot!

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

kcwolf — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 03:39:07 GMT

I find it amazing that if a democrat says something or does something wrong, it is ok. but if a republican does the same they are asking for his or her heads or jobs. What gives with the double standard in Washington & elsewhere in American politics.

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

jiml1956 — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 03:42:53 GMT

hmoo11,

Do you know when Greenspan was the Fed Chairrman? The Fed is independent of the President and acts independtly.

My point is that Greenspan caused this mess by cutting interest rates too much. And now he is advising McCain.

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

kcwolf — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 03:44:31 GMT

if there is anyone out there, now that we are going through tough economic times that really want to pay more taxes. if so please tell us all why you think congress can spend your money better?

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

Joseph Knorr — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 03:45:52 GMT

I am so glad the so-called left wing media is alive and well, along with the rightwing moderates blogging for their minions. Joe Biden is an honorable man that has put forth legislation putting more police on the street and protecting women from abusive situations (and by the way he is the only senator not a millionaire). So go ahead and pick him apart, at least he's available whereas Palin aka "Russia's next door neighbor" is out in her protective cocoon from any questions or vetting even though we don’t have a clue who she is and by the way; she has a 1:3 chance to become our next president (what you don't know can't hurt you??). When is the press going to get off its rear and find out who she is and where she stands on anything but lipstick and hockey!

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

kcwolf — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 03:48:29 GMT

since greenspan, has been out of office for almost 2 years now, I don't see how he can be found responable for this mess. Unless you include the greed from the companies involved & congress too.

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

jiml1956 — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 03:49:19 GMT

At least we let our VP candidate talk.

Should Joe stick to questions like - what's your son's name and what does it mean?

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

truemoderate — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 03:49:44 GMT

Somewhat unfortunate to me that we as Americans don't know simple economics and our own history. If the financial sector fails, then we will not have a recession to worry about. We will have amuch deeper hole to climb out of - thousands and thousands of jobs will be lost....almost all economists believe that the collapse of the banking industry and monetary supply were some of the most significant underlying factors which caused the Great Depression. Sound familiar? that's the pivotal point where we are today. Depressed assets which owners were forced to sell at fire-sale prices (sound familiar?) wsa also a significant cause of the Great Depression. So it seems we are at a crossroads - do nothing? well unfortunately that's not much of an option today unless we feel like hanging out in a trough for 3-4 years before it gets better.

Greedy lenders - yes, but who signs the loans - does anyone have a gun to their head forcing them to sign? Pretty sure that did not happen. It was greed - as much on the part of people believeing that home prices would continue to rise as it was lenders - we need to take accountability for our actions, and at the same time hold the idiots (both sides of the aisle here) accountable as well - a third party might not be such a bad idea this time around - when will a viable thrid party exist? The time is right

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

kcwolf — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 03:51:23 GMT

if Joe Biden, is so honorable then why was he found guilty of plagiarism by his own party. Most people didn't know this & it is true!

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

jiml1956 — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 03:55:06 GMT

kcwolf,

You ever hear of Keating?

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

jiml1956 — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 03:57:33 GMT

kcwolf, are you kidding me about Greenspan? Yes, he's been gone for a couple of years. Do you honestly believe this crisis didn't start several years ago?

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

kcwolf — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 03:59:02 GMT

I beleive I have but Keating, was not a VP choice where Biden is. But anyone who is in congress cheats sooner or later. Remember they will receive most if not all their pay once out office at our cost.

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

newyorkone — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 04:03:28 GMT

I love to sit here and watch the very people who voted to get us where we are today not once but twice sit back and now say not only should we repeat the last 8 years but insist on putting the lipstick on that pig that is the Republican ticket. The American people are not that stupid or so I thought to want to vote for Clueless at the top and you have got to be kidding me as the V.P. My Position is that Barak Obama and the Democrats can not out do the Cowboy from Texas and the blatant stupidity with which he ran OUR government so why not give them a chance. The fact that he sincerly wants to do right by people will never pass. If a candidate blatantly lies to you then of course you fall in love. Stupid is as stupid does , a vote for McCain / Palin is just plain stupid!!!!

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

Kate Mom with Twins — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 04:03:57 GMT

truemoderate: I disagree with you and others placing all the blame on those who fell for an adjustable rate subprime mortgages scheme. Oftentimes, it was the mortgage brokers who preyed upon less than savvy buyers and presented initial rates within the buyer's budget and failed to explain the significant increase that was looming. Indeed, many of these schemes were actually perpetrated on older folks - some of whom had actually paid off their mortgages and were lured into a scheme by disreputable lenders. Those brokers got paid. They made their bonsu but they did so by manipulating and lying and leaving people to face disaster down the line. Yes, there were many that were unwise - and many of them were people who bought "income property" and then found they couldn't flip the property as the market went down or just got caught in the credit crunch and couldn't keep all the balls in the air. This isn't just about "greedy poor people" in bad neighborhoods. Look, no one held guns to their heads, but they were often lied to and cajoled into thinking the American dream was within their reach. It probably would be, too, if the banks were willing to renegotiate the mortgages - but good luck on that with those truly greedy folks. That's why regulation is important. As a wise man once told his daughter when she asked him why they locked the car door a the mall - "a locked door keeps an honest man, honest."

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

Justavet — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 04:04:51 GMT

Joe wants to help us all, as long as its not his money. Paying taxes is patriotic, but giving to charity must not be in his mind since his tax returns show that he gives less than $400 annually out of his $200,000+ income. But, he is not completely mean- spirited. He. at least, objected to the ad mocking McCain's lack of computer skills. Maybe he realized that laughing at a war hero's injuries that limit his ability to use a keyboard was stepping over the line. But then, his boss clarified Joe's comments about the ad. Remember, he's Barack Obama and he approved that message. A tip for next year: Don't invite Obama to the Muscular Dystrophy Telethon.

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

kcwolf — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 04:05:02 GMT

Mr. Keating is from Massachusetts, a state that has a senator how not only murder a woman but his baby too, not much can be said of any representive of that state. Looks like thsy all are crooks or worse.

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

Alivegarden — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 04:06:00 GMT

Biden may be a gaffe machine, but he is also much more. His record is one of impressive acomplishments, from protecting women from abuse, to raising the income of working class Americans, to being an early proponent of clean energy. He also kept that lunatic Robert Bork off the Supreme Cout. Yes, he gaffes a lot, but he also says what he thinks. Everyone claims to want a politician who says what they think, but really, no one actually wants that because then they have to hear things that are important but not always comforting. Biden knows there's no such thing as "clean coal," and he has the guts to call out this country's millionaires who have profited under deregulation and "free market" competition by telling them its time to pay their fare share. Contrast this to the authoritarian-backed, insulated, coccoon existence of Sarah Palin: take the nice pictures but don't ask questions please! Seriously, at least Biden is out there, warts and all, while Palin...well...remember how Stalin used to hang up all those pictures of himself being nice to kids while he sent dissenters to the gulags?

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

Kate Mom with Twins — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 04:07:27 GMT

kcwolf - Joe Biden was never found "guilty" of plagiarism. He was never censured or taken to task by the Senate or his party. He told a story on the campaign trail that turned out to have been borrowed and it was an embarrassment and it resulted in his pulling out of that presidential campaign. But it wasn't illegal or even, in this political world, all that reprehensible. McCain was actually CENSURED by the Senate - an official action to punsih a lawmaker for ethically challenged behavior. Anyone in congress cheats sooner or later??? Really?? Okay. Sorry you've lost faith in America. I have not.

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

Joseph Knorr — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 04:11:50 GMT

Thank you truemoderate, for the last 8 years the partisan bickering has made it next to impossible for productive nuance debate (not to mention the introduction of the partisan hack paid blogger). Facts not personal attacks along with sensible empirical data to counter unproven ideology is what we need now. I agree there should be something done to raise confidence and allow for more liquidity in the market. But given this administrations track record on abuse of power the legislation needs to be carefully constructed to allow for oversight not to mention Paulson was a little suspect when questioned today on creating a package with smaller amounts that could be released over time with an analysis of effectiveness at each milestone. Also given his track record of "Truthiness" after he back peddled on the oversight part of bill which he completely contradicted himself from the plan he sent to congress to few on the details and spelled out he would be sole authority of said plan.

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

jiml1956 — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 04:11:57 GMT

kcwolf,

Instead of calling you names.......

Keating was from Arizona before he went to prison during the Savings and Loan crisis of the mid-1980's. McCain was censured by the US Senate for allegedly interfering with the Savings and Loan scandal.

Just keep talking so we can be impressed by your knowledge.

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

Kate Mom with Twins — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 04:12:23 GMT

Hey, Justavet - that is totally unfair and misrepresents Biden and his true service to his country. His net worth is between 100-150K - TOTAL. He had to take a second mortgage to help pay for this children's college educations. he takes the train to work every day. He also supports veteran's bills, including the recent GI bill, most of which McCain has REPEATEDLY opposed. Golly, if he can only give $400 to charity - to me that's okay because he's given over 25 years to service of this nation without trying to enrich himself.

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

MamaCath — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 04:12:47 GMT

Well, we know Palin makes gaffe's - and whoppers at that. Such as "seeing" Russia from her backyard (it's about 1,000 miles away from her house), that she refused the Bridge to Nowhere, that the Founding Fathers approved the Pledge of Allegiance and Iraq was responsible for 9/11. And this has been just since McCain picked her as a running mate! But somehow, her gaffes are just simple malapprops due to "nerves" and if questioned about them, cries of harrassment and sexism are risn from Republican quarters. The McCain camp won't let her out of their sight, refuses to allow her to take questions from the press or public and they even wouldn't even allow photographers and press to record her meetings with international leaders at the UN. No, the press can't speak to he until they demonstrate "respect". Talk about the ultimate sexist behavior! They are treating a grown woman, who is a duely elected state governor, mother of 5, one in Iraq, one pregnant and one Down's syndrome baby, just like a little girl who not only must have her "Daddy's" physical protection but his permission as to whom she sees, what she says, who her friends are and what time she has to be home at night. Her 2 older teenagers have been allowed to make bigger and more life-altering decisions than she has. Palin is being treated like an empty headed, show-piece by the McCain campaign. They speak highly of her intelligence and experience yet refuse to allow her to show them to us. She is praised for her political accumen and toughness but kept out of the arena. Why should I believe that the McCain club respects her as a woman, a politician and a competant choice for VP when they so openly treat her like a child?

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

daannyy — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 04:15:56 GMT

hmoo11,

"Do you know when Greenspan was the Fed Chairrman? The Fed is independent of the President and acts independtly.

My point is that Greenspan caused this mess by cutting interest rates too much. And now he is advising McCain."

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

Greenspan helped coused this I might agree but Greenspan also said McCain's tax plan isn't going to work and that would be the same one that is in place now. I think McCain should be listing to Greenspan and maybe some of Obama.

I think this reporter is biest and I think Biden handled Her question just fine by stating his accomplishments I believe she was saticfide with his answere as well.

Obama doesn't want someone who agrees with him on everything so if they don't agree on some issues good.

Obama, Biden 08'

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

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

jiml1956 — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 04:27:34 GMT

daannyy,

You must be a Republican plant based on your spelling.

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

truemoderate — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 04:30:09 GMT

Most of this is just a bunch of partisan bickering - accountability seems to get lost. Whether we want to blame the lenders for our inability to read, review, and understand the ramifications of our actions when it is on the papers that we sign (but then claim we are lied to - it was on the paper you signed - failure to read it is not the fault of the lender - it is the signer. Did the lenders mislead? sure, did the signer not even read the document? that almost goes without saying..whether we want to blame Congress of the last two years, or the Bush admin of the last 8...whether we want to blame, blame, blame, I'm right, you're wrong, etc. etc.

While it may feel good to bash the other side, the ramifications of both sides (an increase to taxes) or a money free for all (I would rather see an alternative where these are loans to the affected firms, backed by the collateral i.e. the homes backing the debts and have less government than more) - this would hold the banks accountable and make them pay us the taxpayer back with a return, while at the same time prevent the oncoming collapse should we do nothing.

I mean we all criticize the government but then see the government as our ultimate solution. Where is the logic?

We really need to wake up, limit terms, line item veto, have individual social security accounts and most importantly reduce government (yes that means cutting jobs for those in the public sector). Neither party really subscribes to smaller government - Dems don't even try to hide the fact that they want a socialistic society where the government is engaged in every aspect of our lives, and the Republicans try to claim that they are for smaller government when the past 8 years has been the biggest increase in the size of government in our lifetimes.

How about a little less fingerpointing and a little more intelligent debate by Americans?

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

Justavet — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 04:36:48 GMT

Sorry to be unfair Kate. I didn't see the amount of Mr. Biden's net worth, or all the little personal economies in his daily lifeand his public accomplishmants. In all those years of singing, I would expect him to hit a pure note from time to time. (Maybe a little off key in wanting to partition Iraq) But, remember, his service to the country has been pretty well compensated with a nice salary and a nicer living allowance over those many years. His income has been near the top percentile for most of that time while his accumulated worth is nowhere near that same level. We can all have financial set backs, but few of us have the safety nets of a U. S. senator. Where did it all go? He certainly didn't give it to the Salvation Army. Having people who manage their money so poorly holding the purse strings of this counrty scares me more than a little. His lack of charitable giving is offensive in a man calling for others to give. It also worries me when I consider the judgement of a public official risking looking so tight-fisted when he knows his tax returns might be scrutinized. It is a major gaffe, carefully considered and long in practice, not a spur-of-the-moment slip. This is who the man is.

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

Kate Mom with Twins — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 04:44:14 GMT

I'm glad you apologized because you are being unfair. And of course you are assuming that he lists every charitable gesture in his tax returns - I assume to make as much political capital on it as possible. He has given much to his children and his church including time and money without insisting that it be used for personal ambition. I think it is unfair. Tell me, how much of McCain's SIGNFICANT fortune did he donate. And Joe Biden did manage his salary well. He just didn't try to get rich by selling out to lobbyists and special interests.

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

clockeman — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 04:49:20 GMT

He may be "off message", but seriously, this is what you're bringin'? It wasn't exactly a slow news day....If he contradicts Barak once in a while, so be it, maybe its akward. But at least he's not contradicting himself, like McCain is. Palin in the meantime is still trapped in McCain's "cone of silence".....

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

laguna123 — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 05:09:42 GMT

I see today that Biden thinks there were TV sets in 1929 when FDR was President. It doesnt get any better than this.

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

truemoderate — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 05:19:09 GMT

Well Kate you asked for facts, so here they are (it is all public record)....

Obamas income $1.4M - charitable contributions $240K (not bad)

McCain income $259K - Charitable contributions $105K, and 100% of every dollar of salary increases since 1991, or over $450K, 100% of all book income since 1998 or $1.8M, and the couple donated $340K in 2006 and 2007...(not bad)

Biden income $320K - contributions - a hamburger and fries or $995 whichever comes first (pitiful)

Palin - cone of silence, someday we might find out...or maybe not (???)

I think that's why justavet was speaking to what is really inside the candidates when we peel them back - actions speak louder than words, Obama's actions and McCain's actions speak volumes. On the flip side, so too, unfortunately does Biden's... anyway those are the facts

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

LudwigVanBeet — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 05:24:42 GMT

Joe Biden is a total jerk with Hoof and Mouth disease. God the man is so fukin screwball. The reason he talks so much is because he actually is full of himself. The Obama campaign best keep him under wraps.

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

Kate Mom with Twins — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 05:39:03 GMT

Hold on Mr. True Moderate - You have not included McCain's WIFE's income. That is in the 10's of MILLIONS. What is the percentage of giving based upon the TOTAL household income? If you've got the numbers - give them. But that wasn't my point. I'm saying, Biden didn't go out and marry an heiress, he hasn't sold himself to lobbyists and special interests. And he DOES give, he just doensn't write it off. I don't either, for that matter. But I give - and often not in money but in my time - as do the Bidens. Here is a rundown of their work in Delaware: The Senator and Dr. Jill Biden routinely show up and/or host formal and informal events for the homeless, military families, breast cancer education and educational scholarships. Jill Biden, a teacher, organized a book drive for the school libraries damaged by Katrina. Then Jill personally went with the truck to deliver the books. I do think actions speak louder than words and often louder than a check.

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

annette2006 — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 06:04:32 GMT

This article is full of Andrew Romano's "opinions". You know what they say about opinions...everyone's got one. His just really stinks.

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

truemoderate — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 06:10:00 GMT

Actually Cindy McCain's income was approx $450K-$500K in 2007 - not exactly tens of millions - the point here is that Biden is asking Americans to give more of their FINANCIAL assets when he in fact and in actions is not willing to do so.

Mine is not a partisan answer - it is merely relaying facts. Both Obama and Mccain give freely of their largesse AND time, The Biden's are not exactly scraping to make ends meet as evidenced by their tax returns. Those are facts. And again, we'll just not know anything about Palin as she has been sequestered on some remote island somewhere as she is cramming for the debates or something.

I think in a debate it is important to take assumptions and guesses out of the conversation and focus on facts. Where on earth do you come up with tens of millions in annual income? That is just simply not true. The only income that is released for C. McCain is related to the beer distributorship and that is the $450-500K number. You must have great inside information to be able to determine what she made last year, since it has not been released, and in keeping with tradition will likely never be released (See John Kerry as the latest reference point). The reason Biden has his wife's income is he files jointly, and therefore must disclose it. Again, facts.

The fact is that Biden's stance (asking Americans to give a little more of their FINANCIAL resources as a Patriotic measure when he in fact is not willing to do so by his actions) is hypocritical. Obama and McCain held under the same spotlight do not fail that test - that's the point here...your position is merely another partisan position which is exactly what the debate in America has come to. That's my frustration, it belies the facts. America has become a truly polarized society where most Americans simply cannot see past their party affiliation and it clouds the debate. For instance, this entire article.... who cares if Biden and Obama disagree, that is pretty irrelevant, they are allowed to, but it is what the debate has come to - partisan people who simply cannot and will not ever say anything positive about the other party... your comments unfortunately are prime examples - McCain must be bad because he married someone rich - what kind of logic is that? Using that, Hillary has a rich husband so she must be bad, Kerry married someone rich so he must be bad. Edwards was already ultra rich, so he must be bad - where does that type of logic and debate get us - exactly where we are today, mired with an ineffectual president with an even worse Congress. That's my point - American's can't see past their partisanship to look at the reality behind the candidates. On this point, based upon the facts - quite frankly Biden looks pretty bad. To think that he doesn't deduct ALL of his charitable contributions is just flat wrong - if you look at his tax returns, you'll see that he is also deducting non-monetary contributions of $400 last year, so your supposition just doesn't mesh with the facts.

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

Caleb Murdock — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 06:53:21 GMT

I'm a strong Obama-Biden supporter, and Biden's gaffes don't really bother me. Everyone knows that Biden is prone to gaffes, so this wasn't unexpected. None of these gaffes reveal any shortcoming in Biden's ability to be president. As Andrew said, these are trivialities, and I think they'll be forgotten quickly.

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

edmccaffrey — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 09:04:02 GMT

So the man has an occasional case of constipation of the brain and diarrhea of the mouth. He has been in politics since before the invention of the wheel and he has the savvy to help Obama where he needs it most, in the international arena. Biden, despite the fact that he occasionally runs over at the mouth, is an intelligent person who has the best interests of his constituancy at the center of his belief system. Nobody stays in office for as long as he has if the voters don't think he's doing his job the right way. And the fact that he makes these gaffes proves that he doesn't need to be hand fed his lines like his counterpart on the other ticket does. They don't even dare to let her speak in public.

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

joeryan425 — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 09:23:12 GMT

Newsweek is just laying the ground work for the Democrat October surprise of dumping Biden and picking up Senator Clinton. Picking Biden is all a cheap parlor trick. Biden was a choice made to protect the real choice of Senator Clinton. If Obama had picked Clinton in the beginning she'd have been a GOP feeding frenzy for months. There is so much in Clinton's past she can't run from nor can run on and an easy target. Biden has been instructed to start gaffing it up and distance himself from Obama's message. This way in mid to late October, Obama can dump Biden by claiming Biden was at odds with his message. Newsweek and others will run articles on why dumping Biden and picking another is the "right" thing to do. Obama of course will pick Senator Clinton. She'll bring along with her all the moderate female votes and pull attention away from Governor Palin. This whole Biden thing is just a cheap parlor trick probably orchestrated by Senator Clinton back when Obama was looking for her delegates. This way Senator Clinton can get on the ticket without ever having to endure any public criticism from the right or go to any VP debates.

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

faitaccompli — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 10:25:44 GMT

What Edmccaffrey said was accurate. Barach Obama is lucky to have him and so is America.When it comes to foreign policy, Joe Biden is the go to guy for both parties. Joe Biden is remarkable at intellligently depicting, with extreme accuracy, the dissemination of information of both snapshots and longviews of the complex landscape of foreign country interelationships, conflicts, wars, and solutions. Joe can take extremely complicated issues and explain it to the average guy on the street, and the guy on the street will "get it." Best of all, Joe Biden is a good man. He has been vetted by fire and time from high profile good government that he executed. He is not perfect but he is counted among the best and the greatest America has to offer, and for my part I am extremely thankful for him.

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

daannyy — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 10:53:01 GMT

Posted By: jiml1956 (September 24, 2008 at 12:27 AM)

daannyy,

You must be a Republican plant based on your spelling.

and you must be a republican snob

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

josemarti — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 13:20:47 GMT

Mr. Obama summarized his political philosophy yesterday outside of Flint Michigan when he said: "All men are created equal. And if they do not remain equal it must be because of discrimination."

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

befair — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 13:24:51 GMT

Joe Biden and Barack Obama are both smart men with opinions of their own. They will not always agree. What must be talked about here is the fact that the media have access to Biden and they do not to Palin. The media are so good at taking what candidates say and making a story out of it and that is what is happening in Biden's case. As for the negative campaigns, it is perfectly clear to anyone who cares to admit it, that McCain is the mud-slinger and Obama is defending himself against those attacks. It is not mud-slinging to point out the differences in your policies. The media are happy to muddy that water and confuse the voters. I guess you can see why PALIN is being hid out, because people like the writer of this article will distort what she says anyway.

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

stone5150 — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 13:32:37 GMT

Ohh nooo! Biden isn't a Yes man (or woman)

Maybe if the president and VP didn't share the same brain these last 7 1/2 year we wouldn't be in this huge mess with a financial bail out, 2 wars and a number of various clusterf**ks.

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

News and Notes — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 13:44:44 GMT

Biden is a pompous, self- righteous, mediocre, long winded, boring, egotistical, out of touch career legislator. I will never understand why Obama snubbed Hillary for this windbag.

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

News and Notes — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 13:47:11 GMT

joryan - I hope and pray you are right

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

News and Notes — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 13:50:45 GMT

I think some people are making a mistake by underestimating Palin. She is being fitted into her foreign policy training bra as we speak, and I think she will come out swinging

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

News and Notes — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 13:50:45 GMT

I think some people are making a mistake by underestimating Palin. She is being fitted into her foreign policy training bra as we speak, and I think she will come out swinging

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

News and Notes — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 13:50:46 GMT

I think some people are making a mistake by underestimating Palin. She is being fitted into her foreign policy training bra as we speak, and I think she will come out swinging

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

MsChiTown — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 14:12:57 GMT

Let's see Biden makes a few gaffes, but Palin is off-limits for fear of being a walking "gaffe". Hmmmm, which should bother me the most............?

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

1easylay — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 15:29:02 GMT

Good God. Palin.................Ha.

She's going down like a bucket of chicken at Oprah's after a 2 month diet. They won't even let her speak yet and it's almost a month now. Is this a crash course in World Diplomacy..............at the Wasilla Community College?

If after all that's happened, the economy, global problems, terrorism..........this country is willing to put control in the hands of McCain and Palin, an OLD, OLD man and essentially a housewife, with 5 kids and a record as spotty as a leopard, which she would kill and dress, and a degree in JOURNALISM, along with a husband/ ice racer that she would make VICE PRESIDENT, well then my friends, we are truly doomed as that wil be the proof that our country is a bunch of knuckle dragging, cave dwelling troggylodytes who are too blind to see the relentless shafting we've been getting for the last 8 years, with promises of change and reform from the very people who led the asault on our economy.

If anyone believes the Unbalanced Duo are going to come save us, we are already done for.

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

cobalt6 — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 15:36:36 GMT

Alot of people keep saying somehow Biden will bow out and Hillary will take his place and get the womans votes. Maybe Obama planned this, someone posted. Not picking Hillary gave voters a chance to meet Palin and people are liking Palin! I have alot of friends who are democratic and alot of them like Palin they see her as a person they want to vote for! Even if Hillary took Bidens place alot of voters would not switch back for Hillary!

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

News and Notes — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 16:20:36 GMT

Obama showed a grave error in judgement when he sidestepped Hillary for Biden. Some voters who would have voted for Obama if he picked Hillary in the first place would not come back to him. Some super liberal Hillary haters would stay home. However, if he trashed Biden for Hillary, he would pick up a lot more votes, probably enough to secure OH and FL, and to solidify PA and MI

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

josemarti — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 16:49:10 GMT

Obama spokesman Kwansi Mifune denied today that Mr. Biden will be asked to step aside after the next gaffe. "Mr. Obama has no intention of asking Mr. Biden to resign. Mr. Obama's commitment to friends, colleagues, pastors, and family has always been stoned solid."

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

Molly Maguire — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 17:14:57 GMT

Why is it a "gaffe" when Biden speaks his mind, but when McCain does it is "straight talk?" Don't we WANT leaders to disagree, even argue, then come to a consensus? Or do we want the dangerous group think of the McCain crew? They won't even let Palin speak in an unscripted manner. We can only wish that Bush and his VP had not always seen eye-to-eye.

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

SPORTLOCK09 — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 18:36:13 GMT

Is this article meant to make people question why Palin doesn't speak to the press more or is it meant to show Biden seems to have a problem with his own stances he spoke of during the nominating process? I can't seem to figure out why some of you are asking about Palin. The article is titled the Biden Gaffe o Matic. And yet mostly all Democrat questions are Why won't they let us trick Palin into saying something stupid? lol Wipe the foam off your mouth rabid Dims. The desperation is getting pretty bad here lately.

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

Oldnavycdr — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 20:23:08 GMT

He continues to live up to his old Senate nickname: "Jumpin' Joe." It is fun to watch unless you want to take him seriously.

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

bammer — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 21:25:33 GMT

WHEN THE LIBERAL ELITE "MAIN STREAM MEDIA" INJECTS ITSELF INTO A NATIONAL US ELECTION, IT LEADS TO THE "LAW OF UNINTENDED CONSEQUENCES"

IF THERE'S WAS NO "MSM" BIAS AGAINST HILLARY, HILLARY WOULD BE THE US PRESIDENTIAL CANDIDATE AND OBAMA WOULD BE THE VP CANDIDATE

IF THE TICKET IS CLINTON/OBAMA.....THERE IS NO SARAH PALIN EFFECT OR BIDEN GAFF-O-METER

IF THREE IS NO SARAH PALIN, THERE IS MCCAIN/ROMNEY REPUB TICKET

THEREFORE, THERE WOULD BE 8 YEARS OF CLINTON/OBAMA ADMINISTRATION

THEREFORE, THERE WOULD BE 8 YEARS OF OBAMA/KEANE ADMINSTRATION

BY US LIBERAL ELITE MEDIA BACKING OBAMA AND TRASHING HILLARY, THEY LOSE A POSSIBLE 16 YEARS IN POWER AND WILL PROBABLY NOW LOSE 8 OUT OF THE LAST 11 PRESIDENTIAL ELECTIONS

WITH 16 YEARS OF THE DEMOCRATS, THE MSM, DEMS, AND HOLLYWEIRD WOULD GET ALL OF ITS WISHES INTO LAW:

1. ABILITY TO KILL OFFSPRING

2. ABILITY FOR MEN TO MARRY MEN, AND WOMEN TO MARRY WOMEN

3. ABILITY TO CUT GREENHOUSE GASES AND GO BACK TO RIDING HORSES

4. ABILITY RETREAT FROM THE WORLD TRADE AND UNIONIZE AND SOCIALIZE

5. ABILITY TO SHUT DOWN THE MILITARY AND BE OVERRUN IN A GENERATION

6. ABILITY TO TAX AND REDISTRIBUTE INCOMES TO THE 38% THAT DONT PAY TAXES

7. ABILITY TO GROW AND EAT VEGETABLES AND BAN ALL MEAT

8. ABILITY TO PROVIDE 3RD WORLD QUALITY HEALTH CARE FOR ALL

9. ABILITY TO ACT LIKE THE FRENCH, WORK 30 HRS/WEEK, AND TAKE 2 MTH VACATIONS

10. ABILITY TO HAVE UPPER EAST SIDE AND MALIBU TO SET OUR SOCIAL AGENDA

IE, THE 10 LEGISLATIVE GOALS THAT ARE THE EQUIVALENTS OF THE DARWIN AWARDS ON WHY DEMOCRATS HAVE AN IMPOSSIBLE TIME ELECTING ANYONE TO NATIONAL OFFICE.

THE MSM DESERVES WHAT IT GETS

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

ayeaga — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 21:54:43 GMT

Don't say anything bad about Palin.

She is the republican gift for the election 08.

Go gal.

Be careful, you may be labelled a sexist.

What a way to get the true message out.

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

CBB in NYC — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 22:27:15 GMT

bammer: I don't know if I've seen a more deluded summary of the Democratic platform (let alone the platform of Hollywood and the MSM). Your post really isn't worth a rebuttal, but I have to say that I think my favorite is #7. If I'm not mistaken, I think we already have the ability to grow vegetables. AND eat them, believe it or not. The idea of banning meat (not to mention the idea that banning meat is one of the top ten issues that keep Dems from getting elected) is pretty hilarious.

Biden better get his act together. I'm becoming more and more convinced that Hillary would have been a better VP choice. Hopefully these Biden gaffes will continue to be overshadowed by the economy for a while so he can get his talking points straight in the meantime. At least he's honest, I guess.

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

Lisa2008 — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 23:28:38 GMT

If Governor Palin had made such embarrassing gaffes- the media would have been running 24 hour coverage of them.

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

Florida Rez — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 23:42:35 GMT

McCain was the one in Congress to warn about the problems with Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac YEARS ago and no one - including Obama - would listen. Just as McCain spoke out in favor of the surge and he was right then. He continues to be the brave voice of reason, yet again. McCain is a leader, a man who doesn't lead by the polls, but rather leads by his convictions.

Obama won't go do his JOB in Washington now because he's too afraid to abandon his debate prep since it's a well known fact he can't speak without a teleprompter. We need a President who can think on his feet and act to fix a crisis - not wait for the teleprompter to tell him what to do.

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

michaelp0429 — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 23:49:08 GMT

Is it any wonder Palin isn't in front of the press when we all know that if she made any gaffes even half as embarrassing as Biden's many it would run 24/7 on CNN, MSNBC, NBC, ABC, CBS, etc, etc interspersed with commentary from the Campbell Browns of the world that this proves she isn't ready to be a heartbeat away from the Presidency.

If she makes any slip, any mistake at all, she will be cremated by the liberal media. Biden makes rediculous gaffe after gaffe and the media ignores it, sweeping it in the rug in their desperate effort to force Obama on us.

Oh, and you forgot Biden's statement that Roosevelt went on tv in the crash of 1929: Two problems: Roosevelt wasn't president yet, and tv wasn't invented yet. Just more of Biden's making up stories like all those plagarized stories from his 1988 presidential campaign.

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

michaelp0429 — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 23:57:45 GMT

A little off topic, but since others are talking about the financial meltdown - please can we dispense with this bunk that it is greedy Wall Street's fault - that they have ruined America?

The problem was average, every day poor Americans buying houses they could not afford who are now defaulting on loan after loan. The only mistake the greedy banks made was trusting too many American citizens more than they should have with irresponsible loans. Unemployment is still historically low, but millions of people are defaulting on their mortgages - some are decent honorable people who got caught short, lost their jobs, had a medical crisis or whatever, but that is normal - the huge rise in this problem is from people who should never have been allowed to buy a house for nothing down in the first place.

As for the government, McCain was one of 3 co-sponsors in 2005 to end the irresponsible lending practices of Fannie and Freddie but the Democrats blocked it with a party line vote. This mess is directly caused by the Democrats who have champoined for years for more minorities and poor people to be given loans for buying houses. It's a noble sentiment, but unfortunately it is wiping out the housing sector which now threatens our entire financial system.

McCain deserves an economic gold star for his insight and judgement to push reform back in 2005. If Obama had joined him then, or if the Democrats hadn't blocked him, we wouldn't be in this mess.

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

ikez78 — Thu, 25 Sep 2008 00:29:44 GMT

Andrew,

Would it help or hurt Obama if Joe dropped out and was replaced by Hillary?

Also, these Biden gaffes really aren't that big a deal compared to the Obama ones on 57 states, ignorance on Russia have a UN Sec Council veto, deriding gun owning Americans, etc. Democrats and likely do believe that paying taxes IS patriotic and an argument for that can actually be made if they wanted to.

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

ikez78 — Thu, 25 Sep 2008 00:31:08 GMT

On the finances, these banks were told to give loans to those who usually shoudlnt qualify and then those people couldn't pay. They would have been called racist if they didn't do it and now when they do it's Republicans fault? Grow up losers, seriously.

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

GreatDane — Thu, 25 Sep 2008 02:01:38 GMT

Oh it won't be a problem if O'Biden is elected. Just as democrats and liberals always do, they will do exactly as they want, say exactly what they feel like and the press and their fellow slibs will admire them for being so good at how they lie, screw up, deceive, cover up and escape liability for anything. It won't be a problem at all. Why should it change just because they're elected? They've both (O and Bidet) been doing it ever since their convention. (57 states ring a bell?)

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

Mr.Girt — Thu, 25 Sep 2008 02:20:46 GMT

Your perspective is warped - Obama is the ONE that is significantly gaffe prone.

Although Biden may not be the sharpest knife in the Senate drawer, he is infinitely more honorable, more honest and just plain more likeable than Obama. Biden was honestly praising Hillary as a candidate superior to himself. It was Obama's gaffe to choose Biden as his running mate over Hillary.

It was the right thing for both McCain and Biden to argue that the government should not be in the business of bailing-out AIG. It was Obama's gaffe - as the potential leader of the Executive Branch - to claim he would not "second guess" the government. That's a status-quo, brainless, gutless, "not-my-pay-grade", "follower" gaffe - not a statement of conviction made by anyone with leadership skills.

It’s absurd to disparage Biden for saying “it’s time for rich people to be patriotic and pay higher taxes”, when he was merely attempting to put the “lipstick” on Obama’s “pig” of calling for tax increases on the wealthy. Speaking of “lipstick on a pig”, it was Obama – not Biden – that disparaged Sara Palin consciously or Freudian slip-wise; it matters not which.

And what thinking person would conclude that Obama would even vaguely advocate clean-coal technology. Biden’s opposition to clean-coal was merely a true (whoops, there goes that Biden honesty again) reflection of Obama’s fundamental opposition to clean-coal. Obama obviously values the opinions of his arugula (oops – Google “arugula”, and you’ll find “Obama gaffe”) eating enviro-wacko fanatical supporters over the opinions (and votes) of “God clinging, gun clinging bitter xenophobic” (oh no! another major Obama – not Biden – gaffe) Pennsylvanian coal-miners.

Obama’s supreme misjudgment and utter lack of class was revealed in his ad which ridicules McCain for being old and out of touch because he doesn’t use e-mail, when in fact all of McCain’s fingers were broken and permanently injured by the North Vietnamese. Okay Obama – you technological big-shot, you e-mail/texting wizard – why don’t we get you into John McCain’s A-4 Skyhawk bomber, and see how far you fly before you crash and burn? Joe Biden did the honorable thing by calling your despicable ad despicable.

Serious gaffes come from arrogance and poor judgment – two attributes Obama has plenty of – he certainly far exceeds Biden in these categories. Just look at the close “friends” Obama has chosen: the hate-filled Ayers and Wright; the indicted Rezko. Biden can’t come close; he likely just settles for friendly friends.

It is absolutely ludicrous for Newsweek to despair that Biden is detracting from Obama’s “message on substantive matters” – a “smoke and mirrors” nebulous conglomeration of “hope”, “change” and other abstract ungrounded concepts of nothingness. Hope for what? Change to what? McCain and Palin – that’s what!

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

St. Germain — Thu, 25 Sep 2008 03:28:59 GMT

You're doing an excellent job Biden keep it up as the majority of the USA don't want Obama for president.

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

St. Germain — Thu, 25 Sep 2008 03:49:13 GMT

FOR A TRUE LEADER WHO DON'T NEED TO BE TOLD WHAT TO DO VOTE 4 JOHN McCAIN. Obama is nothing but a spineless worm that needs to be stuffed back in the hole he crawled out of.

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

Cazador1972 — Thu, 25 Sep 2008 04:41:42 GMT

What I am finding odd is that lately Andrew Romano is clearly writing out-of-touch posts that lack the acumen of his previous ones. Obama has made no secret that people making over $250,000 a year will pay higher taxes, he has said that repeatedly and which the republicans are dubbing as a "tax on small business owners" (which is cynical since they'd be taxing individual gross pay and NOT businesses). The "gaffe" held no water and was quickly forgotten because HE WASN'T OFF MESSAGE. Obama himself re-emphasized that later last week and reminder folks, just as Biden continually does that anyone making less than that will see their taxes reduced.

In the effort of wanting to sound "fair" news outlets have begun to scratch around to find faults in both candidates, but while Palin can't manage to do one interview without revealing she doesn't know things any well-informed citizen does (watch the latest one with Katie Couric) Biden is being Biden; spontaneous and honest but hardly hurting his campaign, that's just baloney from Romano.

P.S. St. Germain, the polls beg to differ. And don't forget the thousands upon thousands who are not being included in the polling.

http://slackeruprising.com/download/

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

wendy027 — Thu, 25 Sep 2008 04:57:50 GMT

Isn't Biden the guy who thought that FDR was President in 1929 and thought he appeared on TV? Hey Biden TV wasn't invented and Hoover was President in 1929.

This isn't a gaffe. It calls into question Biden's stability. This guy shouldn't be anywhere near the nuclear button. And I like his honesty.

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

lithium451 — Thu, 25 Sep 2008 06:42:27 GMT

And the fun is just getting started. Unless Obama pulls out to a big enough lead that they can bury Biden somewhere, that is to say, as long as the pressure is on, we can look forward to being entertained by Biden's missteps and the Palin Circus.

Since every word out of Obama and McCain's mouths is the same warmed-over standard liberal or conservative boilerplate that we hear every fours years, thank goodness we have the two VP candidate gaffe machines to make the election almost tolerable.

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

furtherwest — Thu, 25 Sep 2008 07:15:46 GMT

I think it's okay for a president and vice-president to disagree on a few things, but, My God, they're both democrats--they can't disagree on all that much! In fact, a few disagreements may be a lot better for democracy than having a more-often-than-not gagged parrot for a VP!

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

gmgl — Thu, 25 Sep 2008 08:08:47 GMT

Hmmm.. could be that Joe Biden's so called gaffe on saying the rich ought to get patriotic and pay their fair share of taxes is helping Obama get votes right now. It is my personal favorite line in the entire year of the campaign. McCaine has made a terrible mistake pushing it as a gaffe. He has no idea how angry, especially the working lower middle class Obama needs to attract is about having to bail out rich investment banks and suits right now. The "rich ought to get patriotic" and pay some taxes -- gaffe or gift??? Think outside the babbling consensus for a moment. It's the best thing Joe Biden ever said and McCaine has drilled it into our heads.

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

ffarnow3 — Fri, 26 Sep 2008 22:47:37 GMT

So what's the problem! Obama has said all along he won't raise taxes on anybody but the rich, and Biden simply reiterated it. I hope McCaine makes a big deal over the remark as it will simply make a few million more people aware of it. You go Joe! Palin pales in comparison. It will be a pleasant change to have both a President and a Vice President who are each capable of completing a complete and grammatically correct sentence.

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

nmcx — Wed, 01 Oct 2008 20:36:19 GMT

joe biden would be the worst for the united states. he obviously speaks before he thinks which is one of the worst things for someone who will be communicating with the world. if he makes a mistake while in conversation with another country's leaders, i doubt a quick apology will be enough to ammend relations. trust me when i say their are way to many touchy subjects in the world for someone like biden to be making mistakes on.

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

hank1056 — Wed, 01 Oct 2008 20:55:13 GMT

You're wrong. Find me a world leader who doesn't hold Biden in the highest of regards.

re: Biden Fires Up the Gaffe-o-Matic

greydog — Wed, 12 Nov 2008 23:03:48 GMT

If Biden was HALF as smart as he thinks he is, he'd know just enough to shut up. As it turned out, it didn't matter. The media was in the bag for Obama before he did anything. Don't believe me? Ask Hillary. I wouldn't vote for her but at least she has some practical political experience.