The Numbers
A Run at the Latest Data from ABC's Poobah of Polling, Gary Langer
Gary Langer is director of polling at ABC News, where he's covered the beat of public opinion for nearly 20 years - conducting and analyzing ABC News polls, evaluating data from other sources and setting the news division's standards for poll reporting. Langer is a two-time Emmy award winner, both for ABC's reporting of public opinion polls in Iraq.
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Do Debates Matter?
September 26, 2008 8:35 AM
The presidential debates are scheduled to start tonight, inevitably portrayed as potentially decisive. Is it so? Do debates change things?
Directly and measurably, generally not. But indirectly or more subtly, likely so. And there are plenty of reasons to think that this year’s campaign could be especially sensitive to the candidates’ debate performances.
Debates have been held in nine presidential contests since 1960. We find just one after which the lead changed hands by a clearly significant margin: In 1980, when Ronald Reagan uttered his "are you better off" line. He gained 7 points in a post-debate poll.
But there are other cases in which debates (or post-debate evaluations) may have had a more subtle, less measurable effect on the dynamics of the race. They are, after all, an essential window on the candidates’ styles and grasp of the issues alike. After Richard Nixon’s pasty-faced performance in the 1960 debates, John Kennedy went from 46 percent support to 49 percent; Nixon, from 47 to 45. Those changes are not large enough to be significant given polling tolerances. Nonetheless, the numerical "lead" switched, and collective memory maintains that the debates spelled Nixon’s narrow defeat (either that, or Richard Daley).
Nor did polls show significant movement immediately after the 1976 debate in which Gerald Ford said Poland was free (and news reports pounced on the misstatement); Jimmy Carter gained a single point, Ford lost 3. Again, though, the gaffe may have had the more subtle effect of halting what had been a slide in Carter's lead.
Then 73-year-old Reagan’s teasing jibe in 1984 about 56-year-old Walter Mondale’s “youth and inexperience” didn’t change the numbers, but perhaps helped put aside questions about Reagan’s age. And in 2000, Al Gore's technocratic debate performance saw him go in at +2 and leave at -3, although again within sampling error.
Our polls in 2004, 1996 and 1988 showed no significant movement, nor a change of numerical “leads,” around the debates. In 1992 there was more movement, though never enough to change Bill Clinton’s advantage. (There’s also the question of missed opportunities in debates, as in Mike Dukakis’ bloodless answer to what he’d do if his wife were raped and murdered.)
This year, the elements for impact seem ripe. Rather than a hold-your-nose, low-turnout election, this one’s a barn-burner, with two popular candidates and a highly engaged electorate. Attention to the race is the highest we’ve ever measured; 91 percent of registered voters are following it closely, 55 percent “very” closely. That suggests big audiences for the debates, as there were for the nominating conventions.
We’ve been seeing significant poll-to-poll movement among key swing voter groups, notably independents; they’re less rooted in partisanship, and they see appealing features – as well as weaknesses – in both candidates. That makes it hard to decide. The debates well may help.
The potential importance of the debates this year is enhanced by the candidates’ personal attributes. John McCain’s age is a serious issue; a record-high 48 percent of registered voters say it’s an important factor in their choice, and those voters currently favor Barack Obama by a wide margin. Obama, for his part, faces ongoing questions about the depth of his experience, his readiness for office and his suitability as commander-in-chief of the military. The candidates’ grasp and acuity will be on stage at the debates as nowhere else. And that holds for the vice presidential debate as well.
CHANGE – In instant reactions, at least, past polling has found that debates mainly reinforce preconceived notions rather than change them; most of each candidates' supporters say it's their guy who won, and precious few say their minds were changed.
Still, while debates rarely prompt immediate, measurable change, post-debate evaluations can. In 1992, right after the first debate, 24 percent of viewers said Ross Perot had won. By the very next night, amid positive reviews of Perot’s performance, that perception had grown to 37 percent among people who either had watched it, or heard or read about it. And Perot’s support did advance, from 6 percent before the debates to 17 percent after them.
Measurements of immediate post-debate reactions are suspect for a number of reasons. Some are callback polls, made late at night to previously recruited respondents and subject to serious sampling and weighting limitations. Some ask who “won,” others who “did the better job”; some accept “tie” as an answer and some don’t. Instant reactions, also, bypass the role of considered judgment; sometimes people actually need a little while to think about things.
Worst, someone somewhere is sure to run an online pseudo-poll, in which people can click in their “vote” for the winner. In 2000 Jim Nicholson, then-chairman of the RNC, sent around a mass e-mail telling supporters to go to online click-ins at CNN.com and ABCNews.com, “log on tonight: Vote after the debate and make your voice heard!” Voila: The ABCNews.com click-in had Bush “winning” the debate. Aaagh.
RUNDOWN – Here's a rundown of the measurable debate effect (or lack thereof) in each election since 1960. There were no debates in 1964, 1968 or 1972.
1960 - Gallup had Nixon +1, but that was 12 days before the first debate; it had Kennedy +3 after it. Twelve days is a long time and 4 points is a small number. Gallup didn't poll between the remaining three debates, but showed Kennedy +4 after the last one.
Gallup:
Kennedy Nixon
Pre-debate poll 9/14/60 46 47 Nixon +1
1st Debate 9/26/60
Post-debate poll 10/2/60 49 46 Kennedy +3
2nd Debate 10/7/60
3rd Debate 10/13/60
4th Debate 10/21/60
Post-debate poll 10/23/60 49 45 Kennedy +4
1976 - News reports jumped on Ford's misstatement of Soviet domination of Eastern Europe in the second debate. Carter's lead had been diminishing, and that did stop after this debate. But the measured change after the second debate was tiny - Carter gained 1 point, Ford lost 3.
Gallup:
Carter Ford
"Late August" 51 36 Carter +15
1st Debate 9/23/76
Post-debate poll 9/27/76 51 40 Carter +11
Pre-debate poll 10/4/76 47 45 Carter +2
2nd Debate 10/6/76
Post-debate poll 10/11/76 48 42 Carter +6
Pre-debate poll 10/18/76 47 41 Carter +6
3rd debate 10/22/76
Post-debate poll 10/25/76 49 44 Carter +5
1980 – This one looks to have mattered: Gallup's pre-debate poll had Carter +8; post-debate, Reagan +3. (John Anderson did not participate.)
Gallup:
Carter Reagan Anderson
Pre-debate poll 10/26/80 47 39 9 Cart +8
Debate 10/28/80
Post-debate poll 11/3/80 43 46 7 Reag +3
1984 – Mondale crept up, but Reagan stayed ahead by double digits nonetheless.
ABC and ABC/Post:
Mondale Reagan
Pre-debate poll 10/2/84 35 52 Reagan +17
1st Debate 10/7/84
Post-debate poll 10/9/84 39 54 Reagan +15
Pre-debate poll 10/16/84 41 53 Reagan +12
2nd Debate 10/21/84
Post-debate poll 10/23/84 41 54 Reagan +13
1988 - We don't have an ABC poll done right before the first debate; in a Gallup poll it was George H. W. Bush +8. Our poll after the second debate showed no meaningful movement.
ABC and ABC/Post:
Dukakis Bush
1st Debate 9/25/88
Pre-debate poll 10/11/88 45 51 Bush +6
2nd Debate 10/13/88
Post-debate poll 10/18/88 45 52 Bush +7
1992 - Perot moved up 5 points in ABC News polling after the first debate and 4 points after the third debate. Before the debates he had 6 percent support; after the last debate he was up to 17 percent. Clinton moved up by 5 points after the second debate, Bush down by 6, then Clinton down by 6 after the third. But Clinton led throughout.
ABC News:
Clinton Bush Perot
Pre-debate poll 10/10/92 49 35 6 Clin +14
1st Debate 10/11/92
Post-debate poll 10/13/92 45 35 11 Clin +10
Pre-debate poll 10/14/92 44 37 11 Clin +7
2nd Debate 10/15/92
Post-debate poll 10/17/92 49 31 12 Clin +18
Pre-debate poll 10/18/92 49 30 13 Clin +19
3rd Debate 10/19/92
Post-debate poll 10/21/92 43 32 17 Clin +11
1996 - The race looked perhaps slightly tighter after the second debate, but Clinton maintained a double-digit lead throughout.
ABC News:
Clinton Dole Perot
Pre-debate poll 9/29/96 52 37 5 Clin +15
1st Debate 10/6/96
Post-debate poll 10/8/96 54 38 5 Clin +16
Pre-debate poll 10/15/96 55 38 4 Clin +17
2nd Debate 10/16/96
Post-debate poll 10/18/96 52 41 5 Clin +11
2000 –Gore went in +2 and came out -3 – a change of lead, but within sampling error. And a week after the last debate it was back to a dead heat, 47-47 percent.
ABC and ABC/Post:
Gore Bush Nader
Pre-debate poll 10/1/00 48 46 3 Gore +2
1st Debate 10/3/00
Post-debate poll 10/9/00 45 48 3 Bush +3
2nd Debate 10/11/00
Post-debate poll 10/15/00 44 48 4 Bush +4
3rd Debate 10/17/00
Post-debate poll 10/20/00 45 48 3 Bush +3
2004 – There were some wiggles in the debate period – a 6-point lead for George W. Bush before the first debate was a dead heat before the third – but when all was said and done the race after the debates looked a lot like the race before them.
ABC and ABC/Post:
Kerry Bush Nader
Pre-debate poll 9/26/04 45 51 1 Bush +6
1st Debate 9/30/04
Post-debate poll 10/3/04 46 51 1 Bush +5
Pre-debate poll 10/7/04 47 50 * Bush +3
2nd Debate 10/8/04
Post-debate poll 10/11/04 46 50 1 Bush +4
Pre-debate poll 10/12/04 48 48 1 =
3rd Debate 10/13/04
Post-debate poll 10/16/04 46 50 2 Bush +4
September 26, 2008 in Favorite Posts | Permalink | User Comments (80)
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McCain has been screaming about wanting debates all over the country. However, McCain was able to sit on his butt while the Democrates duked it out over the primaries.
Now, McCain wants to postpone the debates so he can showboat!
I want to hear what both presidential candidates have to say! America deserves to have the debate scheduled for tonight!
Get your behind in gear McCain!
Posted by: Shay | Sep 26, 2008 8:49:31 AM
Do debates matter...NO! Town hall style where the people get to ask the questions, maybe.
Posted by: samhiguchi | Sep 26, 2008 8:51:59 AM
Yes, debates matter. Town Halls matter too. But most questions asked are questions voters want answered. I don't think they should know the questions a head of time either. I need to know how they will react on the spot.McCain wants only Town Hall meetings so he can plant people and grand stand. I'm not interested in his repeating his talking points. I want answers to important questions. This debate should go forward. It's important.
Posted by: Miki | Sep 26, 2008 9:19:31 AM
McCain needs to show the world he can do more than one thing at once. All he is showing is he can not even do one thing at once.
Posted by: Paige | Sep 26, 2008 9:26:56 AM
I agree that the debates are important and I support them but I also think that tax payers dollars are paid to have McCain and Obama in Washington to do their job first, campaign secondly. I am proud of McCain for pushing that first, Obama had no intentions until Bush called and invited him. I understand from the news this morning Obama was very quiet, no questions, McCain rolled up his sleeves and at least attempted to get answers to questions we all have. I support the debates, don't get me wrong but what is wrong with pushing it out a few days. Everyone wins, we get hopefully a 'reasonable' bail out without all the 'tagged on' stuff, its thorough and not just a blank check and where the debate is held, they get more income because the town businesses will receive more revenue.
Another alternative - do them Sunday night when we hope all dust has settled from the bailout and hopefully all our leaders in Washington have stayed to do their jobs.
Posted by: Jenn | Sep 26, 2008 9:30:07 AM
I agree that the debates are important and I support them but I also think that tax payers dollars are paid to have McCain and Obama in Washington to do their job first, campaign secondly. I am proud of McCain for pushing that first, Obama had no intentions until Bush called and invited him. I understand from the news this morning Obama was very quiet, no questions, McCain rolled up his sleeves and at least attempted to get answers to questions we all have. I support the debates, don't get me wrong but what is wrong with pushing it out a few days. Everyone wins, we get hopefully a 'reasonable' bail out without all the 'tagged on' stuff, its thorough and not just a blank check and where the debate is held, they get more income because the town businesses will receive more revenue.
Another alternative - do them Sunday night when we hope all dust has settled from the bailout and hopefully all our leaders in Washington have stayed to do their jobs.
Posted by: Jenn | Sep 26, 2008 9:31:14 AM
The debate should go on tonight, if McCain do not show up that means he put politics first and not country first. We women multi-task on a daily basis and I expect our candidates to do the same. If they cannot multi-task then they should not run for president.
Posted by: Randy | Sep 26, 2008 9:37:37 AM
McCain's a chicken.
McCain - Palin '08 "Bawk, Bawk, Bawk, Bawk"
Posted by: Mr. Coffee | Sep 26, 2008 10:06:44 AM
MCCAIN LIED ABOUT SUSPENDING HIS CAMPAIGN.
PROVE ME WRONG
Posted by: watching | Sep 26, 2008 10:08:47 AM
McCain is stonewalling! He has a plan! Don't show up tonight so that this debate will be postponed and the VP's will not have to debate. Where is Palin going to be without her teleprompter and her memorized Karl Rovian one liners. Wait! Maybe she can vie for Last Comic Standing.
Posted by: imnotspoonfed | Sep 26, 2008 10:30:21 AM
I can't believe someone said that John McCain is a chicken. Barack would not meet him in town hall meetings because he wants to know the questions up front because he wants to continue to trick the middle class into voting for him. Barney Frank just said on tv. that this was caused be no deregulations but I saw a video yesterday on cnn of him in 2005 when the Republicans wanted to regulate Freddie and Fannie that he didn't see anything they where doing wrong. They were only lining his pockets with contributions. the one thing the Democrats are right about is changing our educational system so maybe people won't be so stupid and believe these liers and thieves.
Posted by: Pam storts | Sep 26, 2008 10:33:11 AM
We need debates! Especially in this election! Mccain is just stalling and losing the respect of the American people.
Posted by: marie | Sep 26, 2008 10:38:07 AM
At this moment, debates are not important to me. Multi-tasking of talks is useless. We need actions.
Posted by: Judy | Sep 26, 2008 10:41:04 AM
I THINK THIS DEBATE IS VERY IMPORTANT SINCE OUR ECONOMY IS VERY SOUR, LET SOMEONE TELLS ME THAT ITS NOT IMPORTANT, I BELIEVE MCCAIN WANTS TO DODGE SO THAT HE CAN GET ALL THE QUESTIONS FIRST, NO WAY, NO HOW, WHAT IS HE SAYING ABOUT THE VP'S DEBATE? YOU KNOW HE WANTS TO COVER PALIN FROM DEBATING TOO. HE KNOWS THAT PALIN CAN'T TALK WITHOUT READING WHHICH IS NOT GOING TO HAPPEN. WE NEED DEBATE. I HAVE ALREADY TAKEN A DAY OFF TO WATCHTHIS DABATE, OBAMA CAN DEBATE WITH THE AUDIENCE IF MACCAIN DOESN'T SHOW UP. WE NEED DEBATE HOW OUR CANDIDATES ARE GOING TO SOLVE OUR PROBLEMS. COME ON MACCAIN
Posted by: joyce kudjoe | Sep 26, 2008 11:23:03 AM
Depends on whether you think you'll win the debate or lose it, doesn't it?
Posted by: ordinary taxpayer | Sep 26, 2008 12:03:21 PM
McCain wanted to postphone the debate to work on a very serious crisis--Obama was showboating and only promoting his own agenda as usual!
Posted by: StLouisMan | Sep 26, 2008 12:55:54 PM
Angie - perhaps you should find a reliable source. CNN is one of the most liberal, major reporting agencies in this country. It's laughable and pathetic.
Any relatively informed and educated individual is aware of this. In previous election years CNN would put a spin on their reporting to favor the Democratic nominee. This year - they are actually reporting false and partial information in attempts to show the Democratic party in a favorable light.
So, before calling others liars, try finding an unbiased news agencey that reports actual facts for both parties - as the media is supposed to do.
Posted by: Deborah | Sep 26, 2008 1:39:26 PM
The debates have always mattered to me. I is a raw snapshot of people at their worst or best. It can change the whole game instantly.
Posted by: Momuv2 | Sep 26, 2008 1:58:22 PM
How true is the rumor that Biden will step down to give way to Hillary? I heard this will happen after the VP debate, supposedly due to "health reasons".
Posted by: kandule4u | Sep 26, 2008 2:44:43 PM
Obama can debate foreign policy with a cutout of McCain and still lose!
He will wax eloquently with prepared remarks then stammer, hem and haw at everything else.
Then he will wrap it up by saying "I am the change agent of hope, for hope springs within me and where there is hope there is change." And a few plants in the audience and members of the press will swoon and feint.... and the rest of us will just tilt our heads and squint our eyes.
Posted by: Diamond Lou | Sep 26, 2008 2:59:00 PM
Debates are important but the economic bill in front of Congress is way more important right now. Debates can be rescheduled. We still have over a month until the election. From what all the economists are saying, we need to pass some version of the bill NOW. I can't believe the people on here who are saying McCain is trying to stall the debate. He is trying to do his job!!!! Unlike Obama who says "call me if you need me". McCain actually cares about what happens in this country and I am really starting to believe Obama does not. The Democratic leaders (Obama, Pelosi, Reid, Frank) seem to take pleasure in how bad the economy is b/c they think it is good for their election chances. I am seriously thinking of switching my party affiliation to Independent.
Posted by: sarah | Sep 26, 2008 3:49:27 PM
Posted by: Deborah | Sep 26, 2008 1:39:26 PM
and i suppose that the only unbiased news source is Fox news? please quit complaining about unbiased news to cover up your candidates inadequacies.
Republicans and democrats alike spoke on C-Span about how McCain sat in the meeting not saying a word until Obama, after expressing his opinion on the legislation, asked him what he thought. he had no opinions except to back the house republicans and their fly by the seat of their pants bill that they won't compromise on, and has absolutely no oversight and a huge tax cut for corporations.
you may not like the facts, but try not to blame all your candidate's inadequacies on a biased media. there are plenty of sources that agree with CNN's reporting.
this whole election is an example of why our campaign system is fatally flawed, and is in need of RENOVATION, not reform.
Posted by: Tzalaran | Sep 26, 2008 4:27:11 PM
Yes, debates matter for those who do not do not care to inform one self on the issues and canidates. Even then that not enogh to really know all you need. It just a big show now a days so the talk show have something to do the next day. With all the other media oultets that reports day and night the people of the USA find out one way or the other.
Posted by: GoUSA247 | Sep 26, 2008 4:55:27 PM
The only think to Really worry about debating, is, can those surronded by corrupt money, is turned Clinton from Deocrates. And seems to buy fixed records. What if Clinton, and Rick Davis, knew they could buy anybody they wanted. It Fixed McCains Record in the past. And Do not, forget how it bought, Nixons election. I am sure, that special interest groups, who have paid lobbiests, could fix any paperwork. Clinton, had bought de-regulatios, paperwork fixers, and now McCain will have to distance himself, from Rick Davis and Clinton scandels. After all, what if they try to buy Joe Biden. They made Obamas paperwork disappear before. After all, the FBI has been bought before. Those special interest groups, are still on Wall Street, and in other postistion in HIGH Government. McCain should not Debate Obama. McCain is still best friends with Clinton, and has covered up Rick Davis' Paperwork as best as he could. The 'Secret Government', is still in place. We WILL remember McCain has been in Government, a LONG TIME. Imagine that McCain has MORE POWER to fix the POLLS, and FIX PAPERWORK. How Will AMERICANS, Be able to trust a MYTHICAL SECRET ILLUMINATI. The Debates should NOT go on. Fox news was Bought by special interest groups. Watch CNN and MSNBC. How many in the Senate are still corrupt. The Republican Cocus, has been caught in Lies TOO. Do Not FORGET Nixons Debate, was fixed. Was Bushs. Is this a Fer Right Republican Secret Government?
Posted by: historyforgotten | Sep 26, 2008 5:14:02 PM
Who cares, the dems have dumb down this country so much with affirmative action that an non-American like Obama will win. You better start buying guns now or you will be out of luck when the dems and Obama make this just another average country in the world.
Posted by: Jankman | Sep 26, 2008 6:05:47 PM
The only think to Really worry about debating, is, can those surronded by corrupt money, is turned Clinton from Deocrates. And seems to buy fixed records. What if Clinton, and Rick Davis, knew they could buy anybody they wanted. It Fixed McCains Record in the past. And Do not, forget how it bought, Nixons election. I am sure, that special interest groups, who have paid lobbiests, could fix any paperwork. Clinton, had bought de-regulatios, paperwork fixers, and now McCain will have to distance himself, from Rick Davis and Clinton scandels. After all, what if they try to buy Joe Biden. They made Obamas paperwork disappear before. After all, the FBI has been bought before. Those special interest groups, are still on Wall Street, and in other postistion in HIGH Government. McCain should not Debate Obama. McCain is still best friends with Clinton, and has covered up Rick Davis' Paperwork as best as he could. The 'Secret Government', is still in place. We WILL remember McCain has been in Government, a LONG TIME. Imagine that McCain has MORE POWER to fix the POLLS, and FIX PAPERWORK. How Will AMERICANS, Be able to trust a MYTHICAL SECRET ILLUMINATI. The Debates should NOT go on. Fox news was Bought, by special interest groups. Watch CNN and MSNBC. How many in the Senate are still corrupt. The Republican Cocus, has been caught in Lies TOO.
So the question becomes, what happened to paperwork?
Well United America. You already Know, you can not, get into collage without a Birth Certificate, Which the Collage had on Record. Yes, I would ask WHY, it Disappeared.
WHO DE-REGULATED, the OVER-SIGHT, of PAPERWORK RECORDS? The current government, has made people disappear BEFORE. WHY? Corruption? Buy offs? Well Bill Clinton and Rick Davis, STILL has not been Questioned, in FRONT of the WORLD. Notice how FOX NEWS does NOT, show ALL the STORY. WHY?
CNN and MSNBC, has shown MORE about BOTH Canidadates. Both SHOW mistakes made, by Obama, McCain, Palin, and Biden. FOX DOES NOT. Interesting...
Are we headed, for another Flip-Flopping, Senate?
The Out of Touch, Has been Caught Lying, and Would agree, then not agree.
WHY? Why has McCain, Not Givin' his View on the Bill? The Out of Touch Senate, DOES NOT have the answer either. CNN and MSNBC ask ALL Senate Members. None can give an answer.
Call your Senate Office, and ask Why.
Watch on CNN and MSNBC as ALL the Senators, give the ANSWERS.
Be an INDEPENDATE VOTER. NO DEMOCRAT or REPUBLICAN VOTES, VOTE UNITED. INDEPENDANT, and FAIR. Who has access to fixing Paperwork. De-Reagulaters. 'Free Market' means NO PAPER WORK IS WANTED. Is Wall Street Crooks Gone Yet? NO. Is Paperwork Still Being Changed? YES. What will Corrupt Wall Street do? Hide the Money for Rick Davis? Another Clinton and Davis Fannie Mae? Has Goldman Sachs been De-Regulated? NO. So WHO CONTRIBUTED MONEY? :) WE SEE THEIR PICTURES. Thanks Guys.....You Just showed the world WHY the REPUBLICAN SENATE Can NOT AGREE.... :) BOTH DEMOCRATS and INDEPENDENCE ARE ASKING FOR INVESTIGATIONS. CNN and MSNBC.
Posted by: historyforgotten | Sep 26, 2008 6:49:25 PM
If I remember correctly from the news reports that I have seen, is that McCain was the one who sat and said nothing. But my problem with this whole situation is the timing. Why is it all of a sudden important for them to be there, when they were supposed to be getting ready for the debates. I feel like something, "dirty" is going on and I think since Barack has been preparing for the debate, he wanted to knock him off his game.
I mean if the whole point of him going there was to help solve the problem, then why isn't fixed yet? I mean if you cancel your campaign and say that you won't do anything else until a deal is reached, then why not stay and work on it?
TO McCain: I say, say what you mean and mean what you say
To Barack: I say go out there and give it everything you've got.
Posted by: Britt | Sep 26, 2008 8:03:21 PM
How can the Diane Sawyer say it's a fair portrait of the future president. There isn't even equal time. Plus the debate should have been delayed if necessary aren't both men paid to be senators- well as senators they both could help the people of America and work on this rescue.bailout!!!! Those are the jobs they ALREADY HAVE and should be expected to do...not worry about a job one of them will get!
Posted by: karen | Sep 26, 2008 8:39:58 PM
WHAT DEBATE OH THE SPEECH BY OBAMA
Posted by: R. HENDERSON | Sep 26, 2008 10:04:33 PM
McCain will get a boost in the polls and win the election. COMMON SENSE
Posted by: Caleb Kitchen | Sep 26, 2008 11:12:38 PM
McCAIN YOU WONE MY VOTE,AFTER TONIGHT.
Posted by: Mary Anne | Sep 26, 2008 11:50:42 PM
I think tonight showed where intelligence counts. Compare Obama's ranking in his graduation class from Harvard to McCain's paultry 5th from the bottom at the Naval Acadamy out of almost 900 graduates. We have had 8 years of an underachiever and we do not need four more years of another underachiever. Intelligence counts this time.
Let's hope the American voters use a little common sense at the polls this year
Posted by: Kathleen | Sep 27, 2008 12:07:24 AM
I think McCain won the debate, even Obama said, "I agree with John" on issues in the debate, something like 8 times. I'll take a great American hero like John McCain anytime as president. Senator McCain not only talks about foreign policy, he has played a role in history as a senator in the many conflicts the U.S. had been a part of over the years, Kosovo, Lebanon, Afghanistan, etc. He would make an excellent commander in chief, he doesn't just talk about soldiers and their sacrifice in the war effort, he has LIVED it and survived.
Posted by: kathy | Sep 27, 2008 12:33:37 AM
I think McCain won the debate, even Obama said, "I agree with John" on issues in the debate, something like 8 times. I'll take a great American hero like John McCain anytime as president. Senator McCain not only talks about foreign policy, he has played a role in history as a senator in the many conflicts the U.S. had been a part of over the years, Kosovo, Lebanon, Afghanistan, etc. He would make an excellent commander in chief, he doesn't just talk about soldiers and their sacrifice in the war effort, he has LIVED it and survived.
Posted by: kathy | Sep 27, 2008 12:34:39 AM
I think Barack Obama won the first presidential debate tonight! I do not know why John McCain never looked at Obama. It was rude, not presidential.
The U.S. needs Obama who is forward-looking, intelligent, and more capable to restore our economy, protect our citizens, and improve our standing in the world.
Posted by: Gwendolyn | Sep 27, 2008 12:40:40 AM
Debates matter immensely! And especially in this day and age. Here is why.
1. There are many savvy political analysts who help keep the debates more "honest", and
2. There are fact-finding agencies who also help focus on the "real" stuff vs the fluff or downright exaggerations.
Thank you from Texas/Mexico
Posted by: John D Thomas | Sep 27, 2008 1:14:33 AM
I have never felt inspired or hopeful about anything having to do with the government...until now...because I see a genuine depth of spirit and awareness in Obama, which is much more powerful than having a particular set of experiences. People can experience all kinds of things and still be rather stupid and blind. Experience does not ensure wisdom!
As for McCain... he may be a nice guy, but his eyes look dead...he rarely smiles with sincerity...and his whiney tirades, cheesy campaign antics, and impulsive choices are not only creepy, but downright scarey for the role of president!
I've never been able to watch or listen to Bush for even a few seconds (looks like my instincts were right on!)...and I'm having almost the same reaction to McCain.
Please God...no more.
Posted by: J.E. | Sep 27, 2008 1:26:00 AM
There is no doubt McCain is the choice of the two. Granted McCain is not as fluent a speaker as Obama, which shows Obama is a typical politican. All show and no know. He talks about the past, and trys to blame McCain for all the
blunders made by the Bush administration. If he really was all that smart ,he would have picked Hilary for his running mate and secure the 18 million votes she aquired.
Posted by: Binnie | Sep 27, 2008 1:30:34 AM
I'm tired of the biased coverage on this Presidential race. All you hear is about Obama and the media seems afraid to rock the boat and be truly objective. Obama makes speaches but McCain MAKES SENSE! They have white washed so much about Obama; his wife saying she is "finally proud to be an American, while her husband is a US Senator!" Then there is the issue of his pastor of 20 years who has made out right antiamerican statements but Obama claimes this isn't his views but he has attended there with his children & wife all these years and now claims to be surprised; he distanced himself from him fast and the media helped. How many people know that McCain's wife surprised him by taking flying lessons and was his pilot for his senator campain. Obama is a grandstander but lacks real ansewers, McCain has definately more ability to guide this country,Hussain Obama scares the tar out of me! I pray our country chooses the correct candidates, McCain&Palin!
Posted by: Vicki | Sep 27, 2008 1:57:11 AM
I wish to continue my response from above, and address the question; I think debates are very helpful. It gives the voters an opportunity to see just how their choice reacts to the pressure of spontaneous answers to important issues in front of vast audencies. It was again obvious that there was bias. When Hussain spoke the camera focused entirely on him most of the time, McCain was more polite about witholding comments while he spoke; but Hussain was very rude and attempted to talk over McCains views and the camera kept showing a split view instead of continuing to remain focused on McCain until he had finished. Also It seems that the medis has to put their spin on what we just watched so they can intimidate our impressions of what we just viewed because we can't think for ourselves but need incouragement to see it their way, which has been so obviously biased against McCain. In the debete both had ansewers but both weren't given equal fairness in the reviews, it was mostly comments about Hussain. Granted he is almost a preformer in his grandstanding but McCain is the real man! I have seen Doctors that had great bedside manner, but would not let him treat my dog. The "House" type doctor may be crude or unpolished but the best doctor you could have. That is how McCain came accross to me; he won this debate in real sensible approaches to his responses.
Posted by: Vicki | Sep 27, 2008 2:50:48 AM
Do you really think that Palin can assume the role of President is something happens to McCain. Please, think about that for one second. This is the US, supposedly the most powerful country in the world. We are trying to improve our image on the international scene and we want to put in office a guy whose first approach is war and a lady who is taking a crash course at the UN when we are less than two months away from the elections ?(talk about on the job training - may be 40 days before the job) This country has made some stupid choices fore president in the last 8 years. We cannot afford to make another one
Posted by: Eric | Sep 27, 2008 9:03:49 AM
Does Norse mythology and Egypt have something in common? Yep.
Posted by: historyremembered | Sep 27, 2008 10:43:20 AM
The People want Obama!
McCain wants the Presidency!
Obama wants to Lead.
And McCain wants Power!...
...And I don't trust ANYONE WHO ABSOLUTELY HAS TO HAVE POWER!!!!
Posted by: Marcus | Sep 27, 2008 5:37:04 PM
All I Hear on this site is How Obama is so Bad but let's be honest if you can for a moment. Really. Come out of Your Republican bubble for a minute of two. I am not trying to change your minds because I can't and Obama is going to win anyway but let's reason.
McCain is in failing Health at 72 years old and nothing matter more to this Man than fighting, War, and Figuring out who to attack next and the Person He chooses as a running mate has to be sequestered as if She is Greta Garbo because She can't answer basic question from reporters. I mean really, Forget Party lines for a second, Have you People seen the Charlie Gibson, Katie Couric and Hannity interviews? And you are comfortable with Sarah Palin running this Country?
I know You are going to obviously say yes and that's what scares me the most.
People! People! People! Stay away from the McCain Kool-Aide! Please!
Posted by: Jillian | Sep 27, 2008 6:01:10 PM
Why does Mccain think that his condescending tone scores points? It is rather silly and shows him as a nasty and arrogant old man who is really out of touch. I hear people say this man is honorable. Yes, he was a POW. A man of honor? I certainly don't buy it after all his clear insults to provoke his opponent in a National debate. That said so much about his honor.
Posted by: Churchill | Sep 27, 2008 7:30:49 PM
Vikki: Indeed, this is a free country and you are entitled to your opinion.
We are trying to hire the CEO, PRESIDENT of the United States for God's sakes. McCain, failed in this quest. He came across as a disgruntled war-lord who felt the country ought to reward him with this job.
He tried to say him alone understood everything and if you think you know it all, YOU DON'T.
We honor every soldier that pays the supreme sacrifice but we dishonor them further by continuing with the mistake that led to their death. If you are digging a hole, stop digging.
Posted by: Churchill | Sep 27, 2008 7:41:48 PM
The debate 08/26 between McCain & Obama was interesting in only one aspect - the placement of the candidates. McCain was standing on the left and Obama on the right. The rest of it was a waste of time. I've heard all of that political junk in ads presented by both candidates. It's more of the same old thing and I'm just sick of it. They told me nothing new and as result I got nothing of substance from the debate. Maybe a Q&A which would permit only Yes or No answers would tell us more. What a silly way we conduct our politics in this country.
Posted by: soboje | Sep 27, 2008 9:03:11 PM
Debate? What debate? Oh those two? Since I refuse to vote for either in a total act of former and still ashamed donkey follower [before said donkey got neutered] and am voting for the first time in my life for a 3rd party candidate... You can easily figure I would consider the debate a total waste of time and much enjoyed watching our DVD collection of Hill Street Blues Season One. However this might explain the hot air that has been warming this area today.
Posted by: Phil | Sep 28, 2008 12:26:16 AM
Clinton and Rick Davis, the same two men, WHO STOLE Middle Class Lives....They satrted the ball Rolling...Where is Rick Davis?....WE Want to Know Where they are Before We 95%, Will Work for Them Again.
Posted by: historyremembered | Sep 28, 2008 1:49:27 AM
How Do We Trust McCain, That Our Children in Iraq, Are Even Alive...No Contact, For Months, In a 'Supposed' Surge.
Posted by: historyremembered | Sep 28, 2008 1:51:33 AM
Why are we Funding, Billions, Still for those who Hate America? How Do We Know, the Surge Worked?
Posted by: historyremembered | Sep 28, 2008 1:56:55 AM
"Granted McCain is not as fluent a speaker as Obama, which shows Obama is a typical politican. "
"If he really was all that smart ,he would have picked Hilary for his running mate and secure the 18 million votes she aquired."
Posted by: Binnie | Sep 27, 2008 1:30:34 AM
---------------------------------
Your two statements contradict themselves.
First, you said Obama is a typical politician simply because he's an articulate speaker.
Then, you said that he didn't pick Hillary for the secured 18 million votes.
A "typical politician" would have picked Hillary for the guaranteed 18 million votes. Obama apparently did NOT. He went with Joe Biden, someone who has lots of experience at the expense of the easy way out. (Unlike McCain who picked Palin to lure in Hillary's voters).
If anything, it's actually McCain who acted like a typical politician, not Obama.
Posted by: Bryan T | Sep 28, 2008 5:02:28 AM
Well, once Everybody, gets past High Whinnings, They will bee able to relax, and take a New look at things.
remember Hamilot, Holding the skull on stage. I wonder sometimes, if he wished never to have asked that question. After all, he only states 'To Be or Not To Be'. I also see another view. He should never have thought about it.
after there are 3 wise women.
Posted by: historyremembered | Sep 28, 2008 8:59:37 AM
I Think we should delay electronic voting booths. And allow a choice of Blue/Green/Red ball choices. Walk in pick which Candidate to choose Green being Independant. This is the fairest way to vote. Bring in proof of Person, Pick a ball..you know what I mean. Each party will have a Rep. To tally votes.
This will stop fears from any issues with Acorn, until a full Indepentant investigation, can be resolved.
Posted by: historyremembered | Sep 28, 2008 9:19:55 AM
The President Bush, is inCapable to Vote on this Bill. He Has helped Get us in this situation.
New Admendment, a questional President can no longer vote.
Might help EVERYONE in the long run When Palin will Be Herself. She is a good INDEPENDANT Woman
Posted by: historyremembered | Sep 28, 2008 9:45:40 AM
THAT BANK owes AMERICANS
They gave us a poisoned Blanket Before.
Now We Take Our Independence Back
Posted by: historyremembered | Sep 28, 2008 12:12:01 PM
Are there Far Right Republican Guards in the Senate, Yes.
The Senate is Corrupt.
Peter King was on FOX NEWS LYING FOR FOX
Posted by: historyremembered | Sep 28, 2008 3:57:06 PM
I have never felt inspired about politics like now.I think Barack Obama will be much better than George Bush.When I look debate last night! I do not know why John McCain never looked his adverssaire.
The country needs a President like Obama who is capable to restore our economy, protect our citizens, and improve our standing in the world.
Go OBADEN 08!!!
Posted by: John Penghe | Sep 28, 2008 8:08:15 PM
The Republican Are seperating, among their own Group. Free Republican need to call their own State senator, and find out who is argueing, amongest Republicans, and get THEIR PLan. And ask WHY cause bloodshed amoungt, eachother.
Posted by: historyremembered | Sep 29, 2008 3:49:31 PM
It Appers, the Republicans, are the only group still in-fighting. Because of this, Bushes vote, does NOT count. He has led this country, into this Crisis.
Posted by: historyremembered | Sep 29, 2008 3:52:48 PM
The Republicans, in-fighting, is causing more LOST JOBS. Say NO to Bush
Call your Senator and ask who they Support. Middle Class, or Wall Street Scandel.
Posted by: historyremembered | Sep 29, 2008 3:54:56 PM
What is the connection between 9/11's stock crash, and Todays? A certine Holiday perhapes? Ever American and World Views of the Connections, should be Voiced Right HERE.
Posted by: historyremembered | Sep 29, 2008 4:11:46 PM
Once again Our Government is failing the Middle Class. But the Upper Class continues to Make LOTS of Money.
Call your Seator and ask why.
Should Wall Street close, until Bill is Passed? YES. They are SILL making Money.
Posted by: historyremembered | Sep 29, 2008 4:16:04 PM
777 points Down on Wall Street.
9/11 Holy Day?
Ask 'BILL' Clinton where he Stands?
Say No to Stalling, the 'Bill'(clinton)
Tell WALL STREET NOT TO OPEN.
CALL YOUR SENATOR, TELL THEM TO VOTE YES, ON THE BAILOUT FOR AMERICA. OR QUIT THEIR JOBS, Representing WALL STREET.
IS PALIN Going to Make the Right Descision, For This Mess We are In? ASK PALIN, WERE she STANDS.
Posted by: historyremembered | Sep 29, 2008 4:39:32 PM
Does 'Drill Baby Drill', Really mean 'Drill into the Pockets of Middle Americans'?
YES. Only the top 5% will WIN.
Posted by: historyremembered | Sep 29, 2008 4:47:31 PM
THE WORLD IS IN POVERITY, BECAUSE BOTH STOCK MARKET SOCIALISTS, ARE STEALING YOUR LIFES.
TAKING BOATS AND AIRLINES TO 'SOCIALIST TERROR RESORTS'.
Posted by: historyremembered | Sep 29, 2008 5:09:31 PM
Watch the Real News about Swing States, on CNN and MSNBC and CBS.
Why are Both Candidates, Making Phone Calls to the Senate.
Watch the SNL's version of Palin and Clinton, this weekend.
It will have a lot more insight, into the connection, these two have.
McCains 'Poker Face', is a Failing 'Bluff', as 'The Numbers' show.
Thank You
Posted by: historyremembered | Sep 29, 2008 6:56:38 PM
Watch as Some deal with Waco via satilite.Wacovia.
Can past and present FBIC help, or do they have other issues.
Posted by: historyremembered | Sep 29, 2008 7:33:11 PM
See why some Law enforcment are corrupt.
Remember your right to read all documents presented to you before you. Even though they may, race you through the paperwork. Fingerprints can be found on real objects. In real places.
Who is against 'Frozen markets'. Land Mogages.
Oh that Joe. More Republican support him. Than Palin.
FNC fox network center.
Posted by: historyremembered | Sep 29, 2008 7:58:44 PM
Will your Congressman, just Sip Coffee, While Smiling about 5% Capitol Socialists for STARVING 95% of the World, ASK CONGRESS.
If you watch Palin- Mccains Rally speech from C-Span, Palin makes pretty pictures with her hands.
And what does the other set of hands do?
Sign Language was a Wonderful thing to discover. Thanks Helen.
Posted by: historyremembered | Sep 30, 2008 11:10:30 AM
What ever happened to Helen of Troy? Did she just disappear? No.
But Congress MUST Stand Up and BE Accounted for, By 95% of the WORLD.
Bi-Partisan, Means TWO-Sided.
Is Partisan One Humanism Thought? YES.
Posted by: historyremembered | Sep 30, 2008 11:16:52 AM