Yo Dudes, let's postpone the debates!!!

[Sharia Braxton]

Preface: Okay okay okay....

Well, what do you think? Sen. McCain wants to postpone the debate and reschedule it for Oct 2 (coincidentally, the same night of the Veep debate...coincidence? I think not)

Anyway, I don't quite understand why this is necessary? Neither Sen McCain nor Sen Obama have a hand in drafting this bail out legislature - it will be drafted by the financing and banking committees.

Personally, I'd rather here them discuss the issues rather than hang out in washington lending support for whatever parts of this thing they support - and that goes for either of them.

I think that this is the time, more than ever that we should really hear them discuss as in depth as possible their ideas/plans and that can't be done if they're not in Mississippi.

I wonder (hope) that if Sen Obama shows up in Mississippi as he said he will do regardless of Sen McCain's presence, that they'll open the floor to him, and as one CNN contributor suggests, open the lines for nationwide call-in/text in of questions to be answered by the candidate for change.


What do you think of this postponing idea?

[ccubed]

I think it is political grandstanding plain and simple! ;)

[Hollie]

I'd rather not see it scheduled the same night as the VP debate. I'd prefer they were at least a couple of days apart, personally. But it doesn't matter to me about postponing it if that criteria is met.

As far as it being a "stunt"--well, all I can say is that there is no way I could know for sure. Everyone will believe what they want to about it, I guess.

[Melanie Colosimo (lemonyr)]

Absolutely no point to postpone if you ask me.

[nikkiARNGwife]

Obviously Obama supporters are going to slam McCain for this. Big surprise there.

I don't know what McCain's motives are for this but I do know that right now with the economy facing what it faces RIGHT THIS MINUTE that I'm more concerned with seeing something done about it than I am with a debate that can easily be rescheduled and I'm willing to bet that if tomorrow comes and we don't have some kind of resolution... that every one who is making such a big deal out of this today will wonder why they did. Whether McCain being there will help or not I don't know and honestly don't care. I think he's taking a risk and yes just like Obama, nothing either candidate does at this point doesn't have a little something to do with the campaign..but at least McCain is willing to take the risk of trying to do something.

[Kater07]

I, too, think it's a political stunt, and I certainly don't want the debates on the same night. The country needs time to process what they see and hear and too much of anything isn't good.

[Florida Cindy]

The whole election feels like a kaleidoscope of a chess match with Survivor and perhaps, Dancing with the Stars for effect. Turn the kaleidoscope and you get more colorful drama. I can't keep up anymore! LOL

It's a strategic move from McCain. This will give his campaign a chance to rewrite the speeches and rework the strategies against Obama. Now, I haven't heard if Obama agrees or not. Can someone enlighten me?

[Gina.Maria]

Of course it's a campaign tactic. He doesn't do anything without a motive, nor does Obama, for that matter. I'm sure Bush's invitation to both candidates is intended to suggest to the voting public that the future president's input is essential and that a candidate who continues to campaign in the midst of this crisis is putting his own needs first. I'm for having the debate continue, as scheduled. A postponement is likely designed to take the spotlight off McCain (who's not likely to shine in comparison with Obama) because so many Americans are curious about Palin and already plan to tune in to the vice-presidential debate.

[Kim2002]

I have no idea if it is a political stunt and, quite frankly, I don't care. Even though neither of them may have an actual hand in drafting the bill, both are paid representatives of their constituents and neither have actually been doing their jobs since stating their run for the white house. So I'd really like to see them get in there and DO THE JOB that we, the taxpayers, expect them to do.

I also think it would be wise for them both to agree on whether or not to postpone it. It just seems wrong to go ahead and postpone without the consent of both parties, and it equally seems wrong for one to go ahead and do it when the other isn't present.

[4noisyboys]

yes...Obama supporters will slam McCain for it, just as McCain supporters would slam Obama if the tables were turned.

I don't want to see the debate postponed. I've already got my DVR set to record it, and all the news shows after to talk about it. I'm a political junkie, so this is what I live for.

I live in the Inland Empire, which is mentioned on the news almost every day as the area hardest hit by the mortgage problem, and while I do know a lot of people who aren't making the money that they used to (they are loan officers and real estate agents), there does NOT seem to be a panic here. I work in a high end small retail store, and we have people coming in and spending a lot of money, every day.

I want to hear the debates...now, not later. I do think it is a political and strategic move for McCain.

[strangejen]

dude. The Oct. 7th debate is here at the university I work at. We have turned the whole place upside down, and have dedicated absurd amounts of resources, all in planning for this one night. And we're not just talking the past few weeks -- it's been at least a year that it's been at the forefront of people's minds and plans. If it were to not happen at the last minute, we would not be amused.

For me it shows a huge lack of respect for all the work involved in setting the debate up, and shows me that he's out of touch in terms of what it takes on the day to day level of "little people" working their booties off. Also seems to me like a bullying tactic, but I'm inclined to think that 'cause I don't like him in the first place. ha ha!

[Deena]

I agree that I think it is more of a stunt. I do not see the need to reschedule... of course last week according to the republicans our economy was fine and stable... now suddenly we are in crisis... Where have they been the last couple years??

[Jeanet]

Obviously Obama supporters are going to slam McCain for this. Big surprise there.

And if it was the other way around McCain supporters would be doing the same. That's the name of the game.

Yes there is a crisis right now. A big crisis but now with the election coming up is also the time for the American people to look a bit further then the next couple of monthts. You are electing a president for the next four years not just untill the crisis is over (whenever that will be).

The debate is important and shouldn't be postponed. And I don't get it. Why now? We all know these debates are prepared a long time in advance. McCain should be prepared so it's not like he couldn't do both. Go to Washington and do the debate.

[strangejen]

I liked Obama's comment that they both have big planes with their names on them, which can get them from D.C. to the debate in plenty of time. :giggle

[JCSimon]

I agree it's just a ploy....McCain has had an awful week or so since this whole thing started crashing. This is just a way to give himself some breathing room and figure out what to do next.

He may be able to help push the Rebpublicans into cooperating in negotiations but, other than that, he isn't needed. Nor, for that matter, is Obama. They've both been spouting off for a couple of weeks about what they think is important in this debate about the economy. Neither of them is on one of the committees that's actually doing the work. The people on the committees, from their comments, would much prefer that both Obama and McCain stay away and not be dragging election politics into the mix.

My first thought, when I heard McCain say he was suspending his campaign to deal with this was.....so, will he "suspend" being President at some point if there's more than one thing on his plate?

Personally, I think McCain gets scarier and scarier as this thing goes on.

[ccubed]

dude. The Oct. 7th debate is here at the university I work at. We have turned the whole place upside down, and have dedicated absurd amounts of resources, all in planning for this one night. And we're not just talking the past few weeks -- it's been at least a year that it's been at the forefront of people's minds and plans. If it were to not happen at the last minute, we would not be amused.

For me it shows a huge lack of respect for all the work involved in setting the debate up, and shows me that he's out of touch in terms of what it takes on the day to day level of "little people" working their booties off. Also seems to me like a bullying tactic, but I'm inclined to think that 'cause I don't like him in the first place. ha ha!

Exactly!! I *think* I heard that Oxford, Mississippi had already spent $4 million dollars preparing for this debate.

[strangejen]

Exactly!! I *think* I heard that Oxford, Mississippi had already spent $4 million dollars preparing for this debate

And that's not taking into consideration all the medical bills and prescriptions from the whole process making people completely insane and raising everyone's blood pressure.

Kidding. I'm kidding. Kind of.

My husband works in our security department (and gets to hang out with secret service peeps now, they're everywhere LOL) and he has been working 60-80 hour weeks just in prep!

[NellieRose]

What do you think of this postponing idea?

I think it's poor judgment and an outrage...you want to lead our country but can't spare a few hours to tell the people what your views and answers are? Give me a break.

Just one more example of avoiding the people who will put you in office or not.

The debates must go on especially considering the timing...there is no better time for a debate than now. The candidate that wins this election will be left to deal with this crisis and we should hear from them both.

With McCain's reasoning to not debate I guess you could expect that he can only handle one issue at a time while running the country???? If so, even scarier than I originally thought.

Next they will try to replace the VP debates with the Pres. debates in a further effort to keep Palin from answering any questions. Clearly up until now, she hasn't been able to answer many so they keep her shielded.

[strangejen]

aaaaaaaaaaah, good point, jayne!!!

[NellieRose]

I agree it's just a ploy....McCain has had an awful week or so since this whole thing started crashing. This is just a way to give himself some breathing room and figure out what to do next.


ITA :clap

[ayaandjudah]

I work at the university hosting the October 15 debate and agree with the time, money and infrastructure thats been put into this. You should see the press grandstand that just went up.
PLOY PLOY PLOY.......hey Sarah Palin, I can say it too but mean it.....THANKS BUT NO THANKS TO THIS POLITICAL PLOY

[strangejen]

ah, so AyaandJudah . . . you feel my pain. ;)

You should see the press grandstand that just went up

your tent is up already? :) I call ours the circus tent, although really it's just a big white "temporary building."

[NellieRose]

Obviously Obama supporters are going to slam McCain for this. Big surprise there.

I am an Obama supporter and would be outraged if he were to call for a postponement.

[mlpieters]

isn't the point moot since the President invited both candidates up to D.C. last night?

me figures that they'll do their work and show up for the debate.

as for the original issue - I was proud that McCain wanted to head back to Washington to do the job he gets paid to do and risk that the whole thing might turn ugly on him. He is stronger on foreign affairs than Barak - why would he put his best debate in jeopardy?

anywho...i will concede to the point that there were probably political motives involved.

on both sides.

[NellieRose]

- I was proud that McCain wanted to head back to Washington to do the job he gets paid to do and risk that the whole thing might turn ugly on him. He is stronger on foreign affairs than Barak - why would he put his best debate in jeopardy?

See, I am not proud that an elected official is returning to his or her job while out on the campaign trail....regardless of the campaigning it's still their job & they should be there.

As for Foreign Affairs, that's exactly why Obama went with Joe Biden, he is strong on Foreign Affairs...to know your weaknesses and address them head on is a wise move.

[kjbstevens]

I might be the oddball but I'm actually glad McCain said this just in case they didn't have an agreement beforehand. I found it weird Obama wasn't going to go to Washington until the president had to actually call and ask him to come. They still do have jobs to go back to after the election for whichever loses. I personally think the risk of a depression for the country is far more important than them debating and both need to keep up with their current jobs people have elected them to fill. I'd be really upset with a vote this big if our Senator was out campaigning instead of voting on our countries future. I'd feel sorry for Ole Miss putting out $4 million but really that is nothing compared to $700 billion because country comes before self with certain things. Hopefully they'll come up with something today and it won't be an issue.

That being said though doing it on the night of the VP debates is a little odd of a choice unless it's just at a different time. At the exact same time would not be acceptable.

[strangejen]

but the point is, they are perfectly capable of doing both. multi-tasking, performing under pressure, traveling a lot . . . these are all things that a president is going to have to do. I think part of the craziness of the campaign leading up to the vote is to show the public that candidates can step up and handle the presidency if they are elected.

[mlpieters]

See, I am not proud that an elected official is returning to his or her job while out on the campaign trail....regardless of the campaigning it's still their job & they should be there.



i'm not following you. are you saying that their job it to be campaigning? or that their job is to be in D.C?

[strangejen]

I think she's saying that they should be showing up to vote, regardless, and it's not something to hem and haw about when they do.

[mlpieters]

but the point is, they are perfectly capable of doing both. multi-tasking, performing under pressure, traveling a lot . . . these are all things that a president is going to have to do. I think part of the craziness of the campaign leading up to the vote is to show the public that candidates can step up and handle the presidency if they are elected.

you have a point but then you have Obama on the record as saying "they'll call me if they need me"

which means, to me, that he had no intention of doing both...just campaign.

although i agree with your tenant of being able to multi-task - neither candidate IS president yet - and with being President comes extra things - like more staff - more intell - things that help the Prez multi-task. And, where is the President currently? In D.C. trying to get the financial situation taken care of. I'm sure he's doing a ton of other things as well - but he's in D.C. doing what he was voted in to do.

i'm coffee challenged...not quite awake...plz excuse rabbit trail ramblings. :)

[nikkiARNGwife]

isn't the point moot since the President invited both candidates up to D.C. last night?

me figures that they'll do their work and show up for the debate.

as for the original issue - I was proud that McCain wanted to head back to Washington to do the job he gets paid to do and risk that the whole thing might turn ugly on him. He is stronger on foreign affairs than Barak - why would he put his best debate in jeopardy?

anywho...i will concede to the point that there were probably political motives involved.

on both sides.


Agreed :)

As for this "doing two things at one time"...yes but this particular "thing" is the biggest crisis that our country has faced EVER in any of our lifetimes. Forget what McCain or Obama's reaction to this is...we as citizens should be more concerned with a resolution to this crisis than whether or not a debate takes place as scheduled. McCain (political ploy or not) knew this was a risk for his campaign...a huge risk...but he did it anyway.

Still, I think the debate will go on as scheduled...I pray that today some sort of resolution will take place. God help us all if it doesn't.

[strangejen]

yes, this is a crisis. but an even BIGGER issue is that is didn't happen overnight, and we shouldn't expect for a solution to be brought to a vote within days. The "it has to happen NOW or there'll be dire consequences" without thinking things through is the same rhetoric that got us into the Iraq mess. Big issues like this should be approached calmly and rationally, not in a panic.

And if they (Bush, Congress, etc) were so concerned . . . why did they let it get to this point at all?

[Scorpiosue1102]

It's definitely a political ploy and if they were to get rid of one debate it would be the VP one. Interesting that they want it re-scheduled for Oct. 2nd. If Obama were to do it I would be outraged. What would happen if someone attacked us while a hurricane the force of Hurricane Andrew hit? Would we suspend one of them? It's multi-tasking. How about this? Why not change the debate to the economy instead of foreign Relations. Short notice, but hey.

Yes, our economy in in the dumpster. Obama and McCain really could do nothing except cast their vote unless they are part of the finance or the budget committee. Until the President asked to meet with them their hands would be tied. Of course they could meet with lawmakers to go over things. If there is one thing I'm glad about is that Bush asked Obama and McCain to meet with him since one of them is going to inherit this mess.

Did anyone watch David Letterman last night? John McCain was supposed to be on with him, but his staffers said he had to rush off to Washington. Guess where he was? At the same time McCain was supposed to sit with Dave he was being interviewed by Katie Couric. But then Dave had a great point, if McCain felt he had to "suspend" his campaign why not put his #2, Sarah Palin, out there and campaign alone...take over the campaign.

All very interesting.

[strangejen]

Obama and McCain really could do nothing except cast their vote unless they are part of the finance or the budget committee.

exactly!!!!

[ccubed]

McCain announced the postponement yesterday and he still has not hurried back to Washington (although he seems to finally on his way this afternoon). He has had time to appear on TV and make a speech for President Clinton's foundation - - where was his hustle and urgency to get back to Washington?

Besides, congress was already working on this without the presence of John and Barack. Heck, the Senate has gone on without their presence for months. :shrug

[kresta]

I absolutely think anyone who is not favorable of McCain will see this as a ploy.

However, this debate was supposed to be about international policies. Right now the main concern in our country is domestic - the economy. I think McCain simply wants to say, "look, we've got to take care of first things first."

I'm not sure it was the best move for him, but I personally don't think it was a political ploy. I think he's just trying to take care of business for the job he holds right now, a senator.

[4noisyboys]

Did anyone watch David Letterman last night? John McCain was supposed to be on with him, but his staffers said he had to rush off to Washington. Guess where he was? At the same time McCain was supposed to sit with Dave he was being interviewed by Katie Couric. But then Dave had a great point, if McCain felt he had to "suspend" his campaign why not put his #2, Sarah Palin, out there and campaign alone...take over the campaign.

I saw the clip this morning. He was very angry over the situation, as I would be too!!

[maggie965]

McCain announced the postponement yesterday and he still has not hurried back to Washington (although he seems to finally on his way this afternoon). He has had time to appear on TV and make a speech for President Clinton's foundation - - where was his hustle and urgency to get back to Washington?

Besides, congress was already working on this without the presence of John and Barack. Heck, the Senate has gone on without their presence for months. :shrug

Yep! Also Obama called him in the morning to discuss the situation, he didn't return the call until 2:30 in the afternoon!! Then 10-15 minutes later "decided" to hold his news conference to "suspend" everything. Then to call for Obama to do the same he even had time to respond to his phone call!! Seems fishy to me. If I had any inclination to vote for him this has seriously swayed me in the other direction!! But for me cancelling the Letterman show to go on with Katie Couric was just the icing on the cake. I thought that was too funny, I'm hurrying back to Washington but hey, the CBS studio is on the way so let me stop and have a chat first! Too funny!

[Microferk ~ Miki Ferkul]

I liked Obama's comment that they both have big planes with their names on them, which can get them from D.C. to the debate in plenty of time. :giggle

:rofl2 ~ hadn't heard that quip yet, LOL!

[strangejen]

:rofl2 ~ hadn't heard that quip yet, LOL!

yes, well apparently I'm the only NPR nerd around here. LOL. That's the best part of my morning . . . makes the crazy Nashville traffic tolerable.

[ccubed]

apparently I'm the only NPR nerd around here. LOL.

Nope, you are not alone! :)

[nikkiARNGwife]

yes, this is a crisis. but an even BIGGER issue is that is didn't happen overnight, and we shouldn't expect for a solution to be brought to a vote within days. The "it has to happen NOW or there'll be dire consequences" without thinking things through is the same rhetoric that got us into the Iraq mess. Big issues like this should be approached calmly and rationally, not in a panicI respectfully disagree. I think pretty much every person in Washington right now agrees (or at least every person I've seen interviewed whether Dem.or Rep.) that this isn't something that can be stretched out into weeks and months of legislation. If something isn't done immediately then our economy can fail in 2-3 days...not weeks or months. Yes...the risk of this bailout scares me...but the risk of doing nothing scares me even more.

So...the debate goes on and I'm done with politics for the day lol...it makes my head hurt. :)

[strangejen]

then seriously . . . why did they wait until 2 or 3 days before it would fail to talk about how to fix it?

[txmusicmom]

Hmmm.....they are both SENATORS............isn't that both of their first obligation???

I don't elect a senator- so he can just go around campaigning.........I elect him to represent me in the senate.

Is a few days in Washington really going to hurt either one of their campaigns?

I do want to see the debate-- I don't think it's a stall technique- please.......McCain is ready today.....

But as AMERICANS-- we do need to hit this financial crisis head- on........

Donna

[strangejen]

this all reminds me of a kid who, on the way to school one day, says "Oh, yeah -- mom? I need a pirate costume for a play this afternoon." No, pirate is too easy . . . something hand-made and complicated . . . dinosaur?

[NellieRose]

i'm not following you. are you saying that their job it to be campaigning? or that their job is to be in D.C?

Lauren, all I was trying to say that an elected official at any level of government SHOULD be doing the job they were elected to do regardless of the fact they are out on the campaign trail...I am not proud that anyone elected to office left a campaign to do what is their job!

The campaign should be in their "spare" time....and yes, I believe that for Obama, too! :)

Having said that, I do think that both current presidential candidates can keep abreast of what's going on back in Washington while out on the trail...if they are needed for a vote they should get back and do their jobs. ;) In all fairness, many Senators and Representatives miss votes back in Washington and it's not always because they were out campaigning.

[NellieRose]

Did anyone watch David Letterman last night? John McCain was supposed to be on with him, but his staffers said he had to rush off to Washington. Guess where he was? At the same time McCain was supposed to sit with Dave he was being interviewed by Katie Couric. But then Dave had a great point, if McCain felt he had to "suspend" his campaign why not put his #2, Sarah Palin, out there and campaign alone...take over the campaign.

All very interesting.

I saw this...it was hilarious but maddening at the same time...just another example of one's propensity for lying. A lie is a lie regardless of how big or why.

Letterman skewered him and rightfully so!

[4noisyboys]

yes, well apparently I'm the only NPR nerd around here. LOL. That's the best part of my morning . . . makes the crazy Nashville traffic tolerable.
I would totally be listening to NPR if I could only get it here. If I'm in San Diego I can get it, but I don't go down there near as often as I used to. Lucky you!!

[mama_pajama]

Obviously Obama supporters are going to slam McCain for this. Big surprise there.

...and obviously McCain supporters will defend him, regarless of how ridiculous the move is.

I would have been outraged if I were still undecided. I went back and forth between the two candidates right up until I found out about Sarah Palin's time as mayor. Now I know I can not vote for McCain, taking the chance that she will become president if his health were to take a turn for the worse. The more I hear her speak, the more sure I am that I can't have her in the White House. Not necessarily because of her views, but because she simply does not have the experience, education, or substance necessary to be our president.

[maggie965]

...and obviously McCain supporters will defend him, regarless of how ridiculous the move is.

I would have been outraged if I were still undecided. I went back and forth between the two candidates right up until I found out about Sarah Palin's time as mayor. Now I know I can not vote for McCain, taking the chance that she will become president if his health were to take a turn for the worse. The more I hear her speak, the more sure I am that I can't have her in the White House. Not necessarily because of her views, but because she simply does not have the experience, education, or substance necessary to be our president.

Ditto!

[DawnMarch]

There is no good reason to postpone, IMHO.

[Gina.Maria]

There is if you're John McCain and your running mate is Sarah Palin! ;)

[Carolee]

I just read that McCain wants to debate Obama next Thursday IN PLACE OF the VP debate and wants to postpone the Biden/Palin VP debate.

[Hollie]

[QUOTE=mama_pajama;1489839
I would have been outraged if I were still undecided. [/QUOTE]

I'm undecided, and I'm not really outraged. I like reading everyone's input here, but the main thing for me is that I just be able to watch the debates and have a few days to process the info.

[strangejen]

I just read that McCain wants to debate Obama next Thursday IN PLACE OF the VP debate and wants to postpone or cancel the Biden/Palin VP debate.

ah, it all makes sense now.

[LDesjardin]

I have no idea if it is a political stunt and, quite frankly, I don't care. Even though neither of them may have an actual hand in drafting the bill, both are paid representatives of their constituents and neither have actually been doing their jobs since stating their run for the white house. So I'd really like to see them get in there and DO THE JOB that we, the taxpayers, expect them to do.

I also think it would be wise for them both to agree on whether or not to postpone it. It just seems wrong to go ahead and postpone without the consent of both parties, and it equally seems wrong for one to go ahead and do it when the other isn't present.

I agree Kim. Of course it's a tactic - these are politicians we're talking about. Regardless of the motivation, I do believe their presence are needed to hear the arguments and help make this decision. They are still sitting Senators and need to be there to represent their constituents. If they don't do their jobs now, can we expect them to do them when they are in the White House. I do, however, agree that both parties need to agree on this. I think right now what we need is a united front to address this problem. Do I expect that to actually happen? Nope!

[caridura]

I don't think it needs to be postponed. This is exactly the time when the American people need to hear where the candidates stand. Especially for those who are undecided.

I don't see why they can't go to Washington now and then also go do the debate on Friday. :shrug They have the means to fly wherever they want, whenever they want. They should also be able to multitask being that they will have to do just that if they are elected.

What if the bailout business in Washington takes longer then a few days or weeks? What then? Somehow, I don't think they are going to get anything resolved in a short amount of time.

[Charlene]

Having said that, I do think that both current presidential candidates can keep abreast of what's going on back in Washington while out on the trail...if they are needed for a vote they should get back and do their jobs. ;) In all fairness, many Senators and Representatives miss votes back in Washington and it's not always because they were out campaigning.

Exactly. In the current session, McCain has missed 412 votes while Obama has missed 295. Now, neither has a great record but let's not pretend McCain is really being somehow more senatorial by postponing the debates to focus on this economic crisis. It's not like he can DO anything, it is posturing. Plain and simple. From electoral-vote.com (http://www.electoral-vote.com/):

“McCain has been in the Senate 25 years. He knows precisely what will happen if he barges into the office of Sen. Chris Dodd (D-CT), chairman of the Senate banking committee and announces: "OK, Outta here, I'm taking over now. Dodd's reaction would not be printable on a family Website like this one and McCain would be instantly and unceremoniously shown the door. There are two people responsible for writing banking bills: Dodd and his House counterpart Rep. Barney Frank (D-MA). If Dodd wants input from the Republicans on this, he will ask the ranking member on his committee, Sen. Richard Shelby (R-AL). McCain and Obama play no role and McCain knows that very well.”

McCain cannot point to his 26 year record in Washington and give more than one good example of how he's worked to prevent this crisis. How's that for "experience." McCain has been a proponent for the policies that have landed us here.

IMO the GOP is again using FEAR to try to win an election.

From Stop And Think - It's Time To Take Our Country Back (http://www.americanjourneyblog.com/2008/09/king-paulson-hope-you-like-it-video.html):



“As usual we are being told that if we don't do X RIGHT THIS SECOND WITHOUT DELAY the world will end! We are not supposed to think about what we are doing because there is no time. We must blindly act without critical examination of the facts at hand. Sounds familiar doesn't it?

This flock mentality is what keeps digging America into deeper and deeper trouble on almost every front. The attacks of 911 are the most obvious example resulting in the USA PATRIOT ACT, war in Afghanistan (mission unknown), and war in Iraq (mission still up for debate). We have a great mystery surrounding what actually happened that day - since we rushed all the evidence away in another frenzied thoughtless action at the advice of our "leaders." Now we are supposed to hurry up and do whatever we are told to bail out failed financial institutions before the world ends. How about no?”


And if none of that chafes your hide, tell me why can McCain attend the Clinton Global Initiative but not the debate? I have my own thoughts (obviously) ;)


Peace!

[NellieRose]

ah, it all makes sense now.

See, Jen, if people had their eyes wide open they would have had to have seen this coming...... ;)

[DawnMarch]

oh, and another NPR nerd here. Jen, you are not alone.

[strangejen]

oh, and another NPR nerd here. Jen, you are not alone.


Then why didn't anyone comment on my NPR thread yesterday? LOL

[NellieRose]

What if the bailout business in Washington takes longer then a few days or weeks? What then? Somehow, I don't think they are going to get anything resolved in a short amount of time.

Well, that's just it Sari...the rush is on to get the money out immediately, if not sooner, then craft the details of the legislation. Sounds like the old bait, switch and scare that the government has duping the public with for about 8 years now.

Thanks but no thanks.

[NellieRose]

Then why didn't anyone comment on my NPR thread yesterday? LOL

Jen, I don't think I saw it.... :blush

[Microferk ~ Miki Ferkul]

I just read that McCain wants to debate Obama next Thursday IN PLACE OF the VP debate and wants to postpone the Biden/Palin VP debate.

There you have it~

[maggie965]

ah, it all makes sense now.

Yep a whole lot of sense... something certain candidates seem to lack! :lol

[strangejen]

Jen, I don't think I saw it....

*SOB* It's because NOBODY LOVES ME!!!!

(I'm a middle child, can you tell?) :giggle

[caridura]

Well, that's just it Sari...the rush is on to get the money out immediately, if not sooner, then craft the details of the legislation. Sounds like the old bait, switch and scare that the government has duping the public with for about 8 years now.

Thanks but no thanks.

Yeah, this whole thing is frightening and something has to be done. However, I don't like the feeling I'm getting that we have to RUSH to dole out billions of taxpayer dollars without knowing the details.

[4PeasInMyPod]

I agree that I think it is more of a stunt. I do not see the need to reschedule... of course last week according to the republicans our economy was fine and stable... now suddenly we are in crisis... Where have they been the last couple years??

Absolutely! After saying just last week that our economy is basically sound, McCain needs more time to come up with a defense. And now Palin is saying that we could be facing a Depression - whew, are those two even on the same page?

Lee

[ayaandjudah]

ah, so AyaandJudah . . . you feel my pain. ;)



your tent is up already? :) I call ours the circus tent, although really it's just a big white "temporary building."

LOL we have a set of bleacher like things. Its weird not what I pictured at all.

[4PeasInMyPod]

There is if you're John McCain and your running mate is Sarah Palin! ;)

Boy, you're not kidding! Have you seen the UTube video where she is being blessed and protected from demons so she can win the Alaska governors election from about 3 years back?

I almost feel sorry for McCain, I think she was picked as VP simply to court the Hillary Clinton supporters, without thoroughly vetting her. However, it certainly shows his poor judgement.

Lee

[pewtertm]

Personally, I think every Congressperson ought to be in Washington working on this, period. This is one of my pet peeves...I think that they should have to resign their office if they want to go campaign for another office. We spend our tax dollars and they should do the job that they are paid to do...and if they decide that they want to do something else, then they should relinquish the job to someone who will work full-time at what they are being paid to do.

I mean honestly, how many of us could do that? Tell your boss that you're not going to be coming into the office...you're going to be out looking for another job...will be out looking for months...but you still are getting your full salary and benefits?

[snaggletooth75]

Im all for it. Now I wont have to miss my show LOL

[LindsaysMom]

Personally, I think every Congressperson ought to be in Washington working on this, period. This is one of my pet peeves...I think that they should have to resign their office if they want to go campaign for another office. We spend our tax dollars and they should do the job that they are paid to do...and if they decide that they want to do something else, then they should relinquish the job to someone who will work full-time at what they are being paid to do.




I agree with you. I want to see both Obama and McCain in DC and I want to see them debating and voting on this bill one way or another. People cannot go around blaming others for how they voted when the person who passes the blame has not voted at all. I see this so many times these days and it totally ticks me off.

[4noisyboys]

I just read that McCain wants to debate Obama next Thursday IN PLACE OF the VP debate and wants to postpone the Biden/Palin VP debate.

:rofl2:rofl2:rofl2 Of course he does! The writing is on the wall now!

[4noisyboys]

Boy, you're not kidding! Have you seen the UTube video where she is being blessed and protected from demons so she can win the Alaska governors election from about 3 years back?

I almost feel sorry for McCain, I think she was picked as VP simply to court the Hillary Clinton supporters, without thoroughly vetting her. However, it certainly shows his poor judgement.

Lee

Yep...saw it, and I agree....shows very poor judgement!

[4noisyboys]

Here is the video of the press conference that Obama gave yesteday, just in case anyone wants to see it.

http://my.barackobama.com/page/invite/bolatestremarks/

[strangejen]

I want to see both Obama and McCain in DC and I want to see them debating and voting on this bill one way or another.

well of course. I do, too.

and then I'd like them to step on their fancy planes, go have a debate, and run back. No worries.

[Hummie]

All I want to know is how quicky they can change things around so that the school loan my son was going to get and that was approved and had no problems, but was suddenly yanked away from him last Wednesday when all this economic stuff happened, will go through so he can continue this semester in college instead of being kicked out of college because of stupid things people do, like take out a mortgage on a home they cannot afford just because someone is going to let them have it anyway.

Really, this is how I see it. Who would have EVER thunk (yep, I know it's not a word) that (several) someone making a dumb choice and overextending themselves would mess up someone else's life who had nothing to do with it all.

Sorry--just a grump about it.

Anyone willing to make a donation so my son can stay in school? He needs a huge bailout at the moment.

And there's only one school in the country offering the degree he wants--so he's not got a lot of choices either.

Okay, I've vented--crawling back under my rock.

[Stacey Crossley]

He also postponed his very own convention (only doing what was absolutely necessary) when threats of the approaching hurricane were very real. I don't know if it's fair to call it a stunt. It wasn't a stunt when it was his convention we're talking about. I get the feeling for so many this man can't do anything right, no matter what the action.

[Microferk ~ Miki Ferkul]

Boy, you're not kidding! Have you seen the UTube video where she is being blessed and protected from demons so she can win the Alaska governors election from about 3 years back?

I almost feel sorry for McCain, I think she was picked as VP simply to court the Hillary Clinton supporters, without thoroughly vetting her. However, it certainly shows his poor judgement.

Lee

If you haven't, here's a linkee ;)
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/26880901

[4noisyboys]

He also postponed his very own convention (only doing what was absolutely necessary) when threats of the approaching hurricane were very real. I don't know if it's fair to call it a stunt. It wasn't a stunt when it was his convention we're talking about. I get the feeling for so many this man can't do anything right, no matter what the action.

I think after Katrina and what Bush did or didn't do, McCain had no choice. Just think how horrible the Republican party would've looked had they gone on with their convention, and if it had been as bad as Katrina. He would've been slammed. Yes...I think he was thinking of himself at that time, just as he is now.

I do find it so interesting that we can see the same information, and have two completely different feelings about it. I really do like to see both sides, even though my feelings won't change.

[NellieRose]

I do find it so interesting that we can see the same information, and have two completely different feelings about it. I really do like to see both sides, even though my feelings won't change.

ITA...... :clap

[Stacey Crossley]

I think after Katrina and what Bush did or didn't do, McCain had no choice. Just think how horrible the Republican party would've looked had they gone on with their convention, and if it had been as bad as Katrina. He would've been slammed. Yes...I think he was thinking of himself at that time, just as he is now.

I do find it so interesting that we can see the same information, and have two completely different feelings about it. I really do like to see both sides, even though my feelings won't change.


LOL, I agree we try to see both sides, yet if our minds are made up, they are. It's interesting you bring up Katrina--I haven't seen much coverage on Bush's success this time around. Other than ' Well he had to do it right this time or else!...' I'd think he'd at least get credit there if he takes credit on the other.

[lsl_scrapper]

I know a lot of you say it isn't necessary to cancel the debate. My feeling is...it isn't necessary to HAVE the debate. Both are being paid BY TAX PAYERS to do a job IN WASHINGTON. If they NEED to debate, they can certainly do it from there. Yes, it's a political ploy, but...what else is new. It's been all about political ploys for well over a year, and both should have been in Washington doing their jobs instead of campaigning.

The truth is, little is usually said during a debate that tells us undecided voters anything new, and certainly doesn't change a decided voters view. They will claim their candidtate scored points during the debate, regardless. Like 'points' are going to help us when the guy becomes president!

I think whoever mentioned the idea of having people text or phone questions in was on the right track. We don't need a constrained 'you get 3 min, then he gets 3 min, and then you get 1....' can effectivley address the issues. They become just more 'sound bytes'. And I dont' want some 'rehearsed' answer.

My personal solution would be a set questionnaire, based on voters questions, that EACH candidate, of ANY party, could respond to in depth. Hopefully this would be almost book length. I'm tired of people telling me they 'have a plan'. I certainly HOPE they have a plan and assume they do. I want to know, in detail, WHAT THAT PLAN IS. And a debate isn't going to tell me that. So postpone away, because even though one of them is held locally each election, I don't watch them.

Enough of my vent. Sorry.

[NellieRose]

According to breaking news, an agreement has been reached for this bailout and it is being delivered to Henry Paulson. IF it holds then they are clearly both free come Friday night.

The debate is very important for the many undecided voters and for those that don't research the candidates on their own to make a decision as to who they would support in the general election.

Don't aplogize for your "vent"....I have been loving the back and forth discussion here and am so impressed that we can all express our differences of views/opinions in a civil manner. :)



I know a lot of you say it isn't necessary to cancel the debate. My feeling is...it isn't necessary to HAVE the debate. Both are being paid BY TAX PAYERS to do a job IN WASHINGTON. If they NEED to debate, they can certainly do it from there. Yes, it's a political ploy, but...what else is new. It's been all about political ploys for well over a year, and both should have been in Washington doing their jobs instead of campaigning.

[kjbstevens]

I agree don't apologize for your vent. There are many of us on here that believe the same even if it isn't the majority.

I heard the same thing about the bailout. This postponment was only if they didn't reach the agreement and still needed to do their current jobs. On to tomorrow night...

[ccubed]

Now that I am finally finished dinner and all the cleanup and a load of laundry . . .

I went back and forth between the two candidates right up until I found out about Sarah Palin's time as mayor. Now I know I can not vote for McCain, taking the chance that she will become president if his health were to take a turn for the worse. The more I hear her speak, the more sure I am that I can't have her in the White House. Not necessarily because of her views, but because she simply does not have the experience, education, or substance necessary to be our president.

I have been wondering about the whole Sarah Palin thing. I really don't understand what experience she has that leads people to believe she would be capable of leading the United States of America in the event that something happens to McCain. I just don't see it. That is probably an entire spinoff thread though. :)

I also want to add that any criticism I have against McCain is not a "slam." I have a lot of respect for McCain, but I had more faith in the old maverick John McCain than in the "new" McCain that has emerged from this political campaign. I am going to stand up and say that as a former resident of Arizona that I voted to keep McCain in his senate seat; however, I currently believe that McCain will not bring to the presidency the qualities necessary to move forward as a nation. I would also like to see our reputation in the world somewhat restored to what it used to be (it will take years and may never return to same standing we had pre-George Bush days), but from what I hear from my non-U.S. friends and acquaintances, a McCain presidency does not bode well for restoring the reputation and respect we used to have in the world.

[vegaschristina]

Here's my question though...do you think that the other 400+ members of Congress couldn't have finished up this bill if McCain hadn't dropped everything and rushed to help them come to an agreement? Do you think that if he hadn't rushed to their sides they couldn't have done it? Because I think the thought that McCain is the only way to reach an agreement is more scary to me than a McCain presidency.

[vegaschristina]

I have been wondering about the whole Sarah Palin thing. I really don't understand what experience she has that leads people to believe she would be capable of leading the United States of America in the event that something happens to McCain. I just don't see it.

Running a city and the smallest state by population is executive experience. But running a Taco Bell isn't the same as running Microsoft and running the smallest state by population isn't the same as running the country. I don't see how she could possibly run our country when she has no experience in foreign affairs (other than seeing Russia from her house...LOVED the SNL skit :D) and she has views that are beyond extreme on several issues. I don't see how agreeing to the bridge to no where and then when CONGRESS pulled the plug she said no thanks is saying no to excessive Congressional spending.

I just don't see her as capable of being a heartbeat away from the most important job in our country.

[maggie965]

Here's my question though...do you think that the other 400+ members of Congress couldn't have finished up this bill if McCain hadn't dropped everything and rushed to help them come to an agreement? Do you think that if he hadn't rushed to their sides they couldn't have done it? Because I think the thought that McCain is the only way to reach an agreement is more scary to me than a McCain presidency.

I don't think he's there yet is he? I thought the meeting was scheduled for this afternoon! I think Congress hurried up because they didn't want it to look like either presidential contender had a hand in it! LOL!

[tcscrapper]

Sorry... bad ploy.

If you can't multi-task, PLEASE don't be our next president. We'll fall apart after 30 days.

It's ridiculous and I'm astonished that McCain is trying this. Wasn't he the one that PRESSED SO HARD to have these "town hall" debates done????? Now he wants to back out and delay it????

WHATEVER OLD MAN.

[opeysmama]

I personally applaud McCain and feel its very prudent of him to take his job seriously. I personally do not think the debate had to be cancelled though. However, he made a choice and he did it knowing there would be fall out. He had the guts to do what he believed was necessary, even if it was hard choice. So while I'm a McCain/Palin supporter, I am really hoping he goes forward with the debate on Friday!!

And I believe this country, every individual, should show more respect to John McCain and stop the "old" stuff, he served brilliantly and bravely and suffered more than anyone here could imagine as a POW. How can anyone disgrace him now? Is this how you might want people to speak of our soldiers who are in Iraq now, say 30, 40, 50 years from now? I would think not.

If you don't agree with McCain or want to see him as president, fine. Everyone has that right. But his service was and is honorable. I would much prefer his type of man for our president as opposed to the alternative of Obama.

[lunafaerie]

yes, well apparently I'm the only NPR nerd around here. LOL. That's the best part of my morning . . . makes the crazy Nashville traffic tolerable.

I get all my news from NPR Jen! Yay for NPR (okay, going back to that place and still catching up with the thread before I throw in my two cents)...

[NellieRose]

I would much prefer his type of man for our president as opposed to the alternative of Obama.

May I ask what "type of man" you see Barack Obama as? :shrug

[lunafaerie]

Then why didn't anyone comment on my NPR thread yesterday? LOL

Cause I was barely online yesterday, LOL! Where is it?

(back to reading thread)

[Trixie Scraps]

God, how I wish the Republicans would have just chosen Ron Paul.... lol ;)

[hazelsmrf]

And I believe this country, every individual, should show more respect to John McCain and stop the "old" stuff, he served brilliantly and bravely and suffered more than anyone here could imagine as a POW. How can anyone disgrace him now? Is this how you might want people to speak of our soldiers who are in Iraq now, say 30, 40, 50 years from now? I would think not..

I don't think anyone is saying that he's a bad guy or not worthy of respect or anything. But come on, when electing a president, age IS relevant. He's already a senator, how is that disrespecting him?

[maggie965]

I personally applaud McCain and feel its very prudent of him to take his job seriously. I personally do not think the debate had to be cancelled though. However, he made a choice and he did it knowing there would be fall out. He had the guts to do what he believed was necessary, even if it was hard choice. So while I'm a McCain/Palin supporter, I am really hoping he goes forward with the debate on Friday!!

And I believe this country, every individual, should show more respect to John McCain and stop the "old" stuff, he served brilliantly and bravely and suffered more than anyone here could imagine as a POW. How can anyone disgrace him now? Is this how you might want people to speak of our soldiers who are in Iraq now, say 30, 40, 50 years from now? I would think not.

If you don't agree with McCain or want to see him as president, fine. Everyone has that right. But his service was and is honorable. I would much prefer his type of man for our president as opposed to the alternative of Obama.


I don't understand how anyone is disrespecting him in regards to his service? Just as I don't think that makes him any more qualified to be president. If he does get elected he will be the oldest ever sitting president, that is a fact. For the office of President that does concern me so I do think age is something that should be discussed.

[lsl_scrapper]

I don't think anyone is saying that he's a bad guy or not worthy of respect or anything. But come on, when electing a president, age IS relevant. He's already a senator, how is that disrespecting him?

As I said, I am independent, and may very well not vote for EITHER of the main stream candidates. I DO think age is a factor, but not in and of itself reason to vote against someone anymore than ethnicity or gender. However, 'WHATEVER OLD MAN' IS (IMO) quite disrespectful. I can almost hear the disdain and see the eyeroll of my teenage daugher when I read that. If that isn't how it was meant, perhaps it would have been better to phrase it differently.

[strangejen]

here is my total coolness NPR thread for other NPR geeks:
http://www.digishoptalk.com/boards/showthread.php?t=147420

:D

[bho]

Frankly, when the country is in crisis, which it is....I think they should both step up and actually do their jobs for once. They're both senators, why not act like it for a change?

I think it's shameful that Congressional members abandon their positions and their constituents to campaign for a year or more, whether it be to run for President or to run for re-election. How many of us could shirk our jobs like that? I know I couldn't, and my job is MUCH less important, needless to say.

I used to be a total political junkie, but now I'm so sick of the posturing and pandering, I can't stand it anymore. Just give me my damn ballot and let's get this election over with. I don't want to hear or see anymore until the winner is announced.

[nlbremer]

Personally, I think they should have come off the campaign trail last week or early this week and taken care of a solution, so that they could be at the debate tomorrow with no issues of which is more important. Even if said solution wasn't in place, they at least would both have done what they could ahead of time.

[Scorpiosue1102]

And I believe this country, every individual, should show more respect to John McCain and stop the "old" stuff, he served brilliantly and bravely and suffered more than anyone here could imagine as a POW. How can anyone disgrace him now? Is this how you might want people to speak of our soldiers who are in Iraq now, say 30, 40, 50 years from now? I would think not.



I don't think anyone is disrespecting him. He's done everything except die for his country, but we (I) am allowed to voice my concerns for his statements, voting record and personally, "suspending" his campaign. Can't Palin take over it for a week?

[4noisyboys]

i just heard that his campaign headquarters in most states have not been notified of being postponed.

[SteinwaysMom/DebraTope]

I'm so disgusted by this bailout (as are most of the taxpayers). I think it's more important to fight against giving 700 billion to a bunch of rich people who bilked the country than to have a debate...

I'm really interested in seeing how each candidate will respond to this crisis. From what I understand both candidates got $$$ from Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac and both the dems and republicans got a lot of $$$ from them overall. And both agencies actively lobbied against being regulated.

It's absolutely outrageous and the guy that wants the 700 billion 'no strings attached' is trying to use scare tactics to get congress to pass it ASAP w/o really looking into the details.

[khalgren77]

I think it needs to be done now also! Why put it off??? Will it make any difference to do it now or wait? Get it done and over with!

What I want to know is- WHY do they have to spend millions and millions of dollars to campaign?? Give that money to people who have lost their homes, give it to the homeless, share it amongst all of us! I think it's a total waste of money flying everywhere and speaking...speak on TV or the radio...save the fuels, the waste of balloons, posters, hats, and ticker tape.It's stupid IMHO..does all that fancy schmancy stuff they do make a difference how people are going to vote...Oh Obama had fancier hats and more confetti- I;ll vote for him but oh wait- McCain had fancier signs and cooler banners I'll vote for him....just talk about what you're going to do for the country and stop wasting so much money! It's insane!

[SteinwaysMom/DebraTope]

Boy, you're not kidding! Have you seen the UTube video where she is being blessed and protected from demons so she can win the Alaska governors election from about 3 years back?

I almost feel sorry for McCain, I think she was picked as VP simply to court the Hillary Clinton supporters, without thoroughly vetting her. However, it certainly shows his poor judgement.

Lee

I think he picked her to mostly court Christian Conservatives...she is not going to interest Hilary supporters unless all they want is a woman...

But anyway why is she being characterized as a freak because of that video? Some African pastor prayed over her. I don't think by 'witchcraft' he was referring to wiccans or anything - in Africa and other countries there is a strong history of occult practices, voodoo and 'black magic' being practiced - much more so than in the States where that kind of thing is considered wacky. I knew a girl from Malaysia who told me someone cast a spell on her and she couldn't talk for an extended period of time...I don't even know what religion she was but it's very 'real' to people from countries where that kind of thing is still very much alive.

If that pastor felt that God wanted to use her in the political realm and prayed for her success then I don't see what the big deal is. I think part of any faith tradition is believing that God gives people gifts and talents put them in positions where they can serve others.

[Divian]

This was funny, I love David Letterman and he hit the nail on the head. Why suspend the campaign when you have a running mate? Why not have the running mate continue the campaign and you push forward with the efforts to combat the state of the economy.

Anyway, I found it funny... http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=maM30MTiSWk

Also, did anyone catch Palin with Katie? I have never felt so bad for someone in the spotlight in all my life.

Funny.

Woman-Check
Little Experience-Check
Playing Sexism Card-Check
Pregnant Teen But Still Its A Personal Matter That Should Be Left Alone But Not Afforded To Jamie Spears But Palin's Daughter is Different Leave Her Alone We Have All Been There-Check
Great Speaker-Check
Guns Are Good For Hunting and Not Used for Killing Keep the Guns In the Hands Of Us All-Check
Trust Palin and McCain with the state of the union to push us into being the leading force in the free world because they are so kewl-check

Sorry, but I do not believe that rationale thinking constitutes an effective leader. I honestly believe the economy and the state of our country is faultering and no matter who is elected, they have one heck of a job of repair on their hands. I just believe that one may do a better job than the other. Whether we get up and going is still left out in open field...waiting for the poor kid who can't catch worth a darn to snag that ball.

[SteinwaysMom/DebraTope]

I think it needs to be done now also! Why put it off??? Will it make any difference to do it now or wait? Get it done and over with!

What I want to know is- WHY do they have to spend millions and millions of dollars to campaign?? Give that money to people who have lost their homes, give it to the homeless, share it amongst all of us! I think it's a total waste of money flying everywhere and speaking...speak on TV or the radio...save the fuels, the waste of balloons, posters, hats, and ticker tape.It's stupid IMHO..does all that fancy schmancy stuff they do make a difference how people are going to vote...Oh Obama had fancier hats and more confetti- I;ll vote for him but oh wait- McCain had fancier signs and cooler banners I'll vote for him....just talk about what you're going to do for the country and stop wasting so much money! It's insane!

You are so right....the candidates have spent millions and if I wanted to know where they stood on the issues I could find a simple chart on some website.

We are watching them pay millions of dollars to basically insult each other and play the same blame games the Republicans and Democrats do...

[JCSimon]

i just heard that his campaign headquarters in most states have not been notified of being postponed.

Not only his campaign headquarters. Here in Michigan, his extremely negative ads are still running non-stop (didn't he say he was going to stop the ads, too?) and, all over the news, his surrogates are still out there. Isn't that campaining? What, exactly, was "suspended?"

[Gina.Maria]

Personally, I think every Congressperson ought to be in Washington working on this, period. This is one of my pet peeves...I think that they should have to resign their office if they want to go campaign for another office. We spend our tax dollars and they should do the job that they are paid to do...and if they decide that they want to do something else, then they should relinquish the job to someone who will work full-time at what they are being paid to do.

I mean honestly, how many of us could do that? Tell your boss that you're not going to be coming into the office...you're going to be out looking for another job...will be out looking for months...but you still are getting your full salary and benefits?

I'm a little vague about the details, but I recall my high school government class covering Congress and they typically aren't in session all year long. Thus, our representatives are not required in Washington at all times and, in fact, are expected to spend time in their home states and engaged in other related activities, including campaigning. Where was this same outrage when GWB was campaigning against Kerry to keep himself in office in 2004?

* I looked it up (http://www.thecapitol.net/FAQ/cong_schedule.html) and, typically, the House and Senate have adjourned for the year by September 26th with several extended breaks preceding that.

[m1218p]

As a person whose bank failed yesterday, was taken over by FDIC, and was purchased by JP Morgan Chase, I believe SOMETHING has to be done. I'm happy for anyone who can and WILL facilitate getting the job done as soon as possible. As it turns out, I'll be fine, but maybe you can't understand the urgency until you experience knowing all your savings and everything in your checking account is at risk..........

[AndreaBurns]

If you ask me, I think it shows McCain has integrity, and is listening to The People of the USA and their concerns over the economy... he's researching what to do next.

[Sharia Braxton]

As it turns out, he didn't add much to the round table yesterday. I thought after his mad rush back (after ditching letterman and stopping to appear with Couric) he'd have had much input and been rallying the legislative troops to stay over night and work it out.

Etire article (http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2008/09/25/at-white-house-mccain-pla_n_129438.html)


Inside an intense White House meeting over the financial crisis on Thursday, where nearly every key player came to an agreement on the outlines of the bailout package, Sen. John McCain stuck out. The Republican candidate, according to sources with direct knowledge, sat quiet through most of the meeting, never offered specifics, and spoke only at the end to raise doubts about the rough compromise that the White House and congressional leaders were nearing.
McCain's reluctance to jump on board the bailout agreement could throw the entire week-long negotiation into a tailspin. Sen. Chris Dodd, after leaving the White House, suggested on CNN that the tenuous process could be derailed by what he viewed as McCain's political motives.
"What happened here, basically, if you want an honest appraisal of the thing, we have been spending a lot of time and I am tired. I have spent almost seven straight days at this in trying to come out with a workout plan for our economy a rescue plan," said Dodd. "What this looked like to me was a rescue plan for John McCain for two hours and took us away from the work we are trying to do today. Serious people trying to do serious work to come up with an answer."
According to the source with knowledge of the White House gathering -- which featured both presidential candidates, congressional leaders and the President -- virtually ever key figure in the room, save McCain and GOP Sen. Richard Shelby, were in agreement over a revised version of Treasury Secretary Hank Paulson's plan.
Towards the end, McCain finally spoke up, mentioning a counter-proposal that had been offered by some conservative House Republicans, which would suspend the capital gains tax for two years and provide tax incentives to encourage firms that buy up bad debt. McCain did not discuss specifics of the plan, though, and was non-committal about supporting it.
Paulson, however, argued directly against the conservative proposal. "He said that he did not think it would work," according to the source. At another point in the meeting, President Bush chimed in, "If money isn't loosened, this sucker could go down" -- and by sucker he meant economy.
ABC News reported (http://abcnews.go.com/Politics/Vote2008/story?id=5884701&page=1) that, following the meeting, Paulson "walked into the room where Democrats were caucusing...at the White House and pleaded with them 'please don't blow this up.'" But this story isn't incomplete, according to sources.
Democrats stayed talking in the Roosevelt room and Paulson approached them. After his comment, Speaker Pelosi and Rep. Barney Frank shot back that the real problem was with House Republicans. Paulson replied, "I know, I know," as he got down on one knee to lighten the mood. Pelosi joked back, "I didn't know you were a Catholic."
Story continues below http://www.huffingtonpost.com/images/v/darr.gif

[Scorpiosue1102]

Anyone else a political/news junkie right now? LOL

Obviously, we need to get something done NOW considering Washington Mututal failed...the biggest failure EVER in US history, worse than anything during the Depression. This is scary stuff.

Thanks for the article Sharia.

[Microferk ~ Miki Ferkul]

What I think they should do is broadcast the free-for-all happening right now at the Capitol. Let US see how our elected officials are taking care of our business in real life.

[mommy2kadin]

He's going to debate now.
http://elections.foxnews.com/2008/09/26/mccain-to-attend-debate-at-university-of-mississippi/

[InLoveWithDOTS]

Frankly, when the country is in crisis, which it is....I think they should both step up and actually do their jobs for once. They're both senators, why not act like it for a change?


I totally agree and I think NObama is just ticked he didnt think of it first! LOL

[NellieRose]

I totally agree and I think NObama is just ticked he didnt think of it first! LOL

I wouldn't be so quick to judge...Mr. Obama was in touch via telephone, at least once each day, everyday this week, with Henry Paulson. There was no reason for him nor Mr. McCain to be sitting around in Washington when neither of them were on the committees dealing with the problem. They would only be needed to cast a vote in the Senate should any proposed deals get that far.

As an Obama supporter I would imagine it's a fair assumption to say John McCain was also in touch daily with Paulson as well.

[lsl_scrapper]

That's true.....though campaigning wasn't originally one of the expected activities. Originally (think George Washington times) it was to keep them in touch with their constituency. No one expected them to be able to live on a congressional salary. They were supposed to be citizen-legislators with REAL jobs that kept them busy, and the fall ending was to allow them to return home for harvest. Also, no one anticipated that congress would be so involved in every aspect of our lives and that there was no reason to think all business could not be completed in just a few months. But they have always been expected to RETURN to vote if an important issue came up.

[Sharia Braxton]

NObama

Unnecessary.

I don't think anyone else has done any candidate name-calling.

[Microferk ~ Miki Ferkul]

Unnecessary.

I don't think anyone else has done any candidate name-calling.

True Sharia. I haven't seen "McCrazy" once on this board. I thought the restraint admirable.

[vegaschristina]

I did see McSame, but in all honesty, it was used by someone who is a regular poster who created a new account so she could post her inflammatory posts anonymously. I would rather everyone used the correct names so we can continue having a great debate on the issues and possibly educate someone/learn something in the process.

[mama_pajama]

So McCain is going forward with the debate now? I'm sorry, I like the guy, but is he even capable of taking a stand and sticking to it anymore?

[pewtertm]

[quote=Gina.Maria;1491676]Where was this same outrage when GWB was campaigning against Kerry to keep himself in office in 2004?
[quote]

My outrage wass in the same place it is now, thanks. When Bush was my governor (and I thought he did a pretty good job), I was very frustrated when he decided to run for President...I thought he should have stepped down from his office if he was going to be out on the campaign trail. I understand that the sitting president isn't going to resign in order to try to keep his/her job...but if you are going to be out campaigning for another office, then I think you should step down. If you'd only be out campaigning while Congress wasn't in session, then that would be another story...but that's not how it does around here. Every election it seems to drag on longer and longer.

And LOL on GWBush and Kerry...when I voted that day, it was AGAINST Kerry, and not particularly for Bush.

[NellieRose]

Unnecessary.

I agree.