Obama's Record Breaking Fundraising

[txmusicmom]

WOW- where is all that $604 million coming from ?-- I thought our economy was shot.

Originally Obama agreed to limit fund raising and take the public $84 million cap. But he changed his mind-

"As reporters gathered at Washington's St. Regis Hotel were quick to point out, that would make Obama the first presidential candidate since Republican Richard Nixon to raise unlimited private funds for his race. And it represents a 180-degree pivot from his earlier pledge to participate in the public system if his opponent does the same."

Well McCain agreed and signed. Obama changed his mind and didn't.

This comes from USA News - and world report

http://www.usnews.com/blogs/washington-whispers/2008/6/19/obamas-campaign-defends-decision-to-opt-out-of-public-financing.html

It's not new news--but in light of the record fund raising, I thought it would be a good time to visit it again--- $150 in one month.....

So what do you think?

[kjbstevens]

I wish they wouldn't keep rubbing these numbers in our faces that they all raise while I'm sitting here freezing half to death because I don't want to turn the heat on yet to keep the bill down. Imagine that good that could be done in the world that Obama talks so much about and then they both just go and spend it doing whatever to get themselves noticed. The money side of elections really bothers me and is another big part that takes away from actual issues because they want money to just smear the other. *Sigh*

[daly]

WOW- where is all that $604 million coming from ?-- I thought our economy was shot.

Originally Obama agreed to limit fund raising and take the public $84 million cap. But he changed his mind-

"As reporters gathered at Washington's St. Regis Hotel were quick to point out, that would make Obama the first presidential candidate since Republican Richard Nixon to raise unlimited private funds for his race. And it represents a 180-degree pivot from his earlier pledge to participate in the public system if his opponent does the same."

Well McCain agreed and signed. Obama changed his mind and didn't.

This comes from USA News - and world report

http://www.usnews.com/blogs/washington-whispers/2008/6/19/obamas-campaign-defends-decision-to-opt-out-of-public-financing.html

It's not new news--but in light of the record fund raising, I thought it would be a good time to visit it again--- $150 in one month.....

So what do you think?

If we are to believe the media...he already has the election in the bag....so why is he still accepting these unprecedented amounts of money for his campaign?

You'd think since he has such a genuine and admirable concern for the poor he would come out and publicly implore to stop sending him money and instead give that money to charity.

[txmusicmom]

You'd think since he has such a genuine and admirable concern for the poor he would come out and publicly implore to stop sending him money and instead give that money to charity.

:highfive Good point!

[Tiffikat]

From what I've read most of the money is in the form of small donations of approx. $100. I think it just goes to show how much support he has from people in America. If we had extra money I certainly would have donated to him.

[Tiffikat]

I also want to add that I believe many people believe that this donation WILL help the poor and middle class because by helping Obama to get elected they are giving the poor and middle class a better chance.

[Glueless Media]

http://www.nypost.com/seven/10172008/tv/obama_delays_world_series_133905.htm

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2008/10/15/fox-may-adjust-world-seri_n_134975.html

This cost money....lol

[Charlene]

If we are to believe the media...he already has the election in the bag....so why is he still accepting these unprecedented amounts of money for his campaign?

You'd think since he has such a genuine and admirable concern for the poor he would come out and publicly implore to stop sending him money and instead give that money to charity.

Oh, c'mon, are we really going down this road? I highly doubt he is receiving campaign donations from the very poor.

I've donated to his campaign on several occasions and consider it an investment in my family's future.

[Chreamps]

I've donated to his campaign on several occasions and consider it an investment in my family's future.

That's a wonderful way to see it. I remember when Bush was breaking records in his runs for President.

[cheribear]

And we're whining in Canada that the ENTIRE FEDERAL ELECTION cost $300 million. Or, more specifically - that it was a huge waste of money.

[~ashleigh]

I've donated to his campaign on several occasions and consider it an investment in my family's future.

I have donated a little to Obama's campaign, and I agree with Charlene. However, I also see it as an investment in my country's future, too.

[daly]

Oh, c'mon, are we really going down this road? I highly doubt he is receiving campaign donations from the very poor.

I've donated to his campaign on several occasions and consider it an investment in my family's future.

no, you misunderstood me.
The money paid would be better utilized by the poor (in the form of charity) than it is to continue to give to a campaign when I continually keep hearing that McCain has absolutely no chance of winning.

Obama could really use this as an opportunity to encourage people to put their money to better use....you know, since there is no way McCain could win. I mean, EVERYONE hates Republicans and how they have ruined our country....right?

Only the ultra rich could possibly believe that McCain could actually be better choice for our country....right? Because OBAMA is going to give everyone else more money....only the evil rich will feel any pinch at all. Will he put that in writing please? I mean suddenly we are to believe that *magically* everything a politician says he is going to do will happen exactly the way he promises...? (and no, I don't believe McCain will either, but I believe he is closer to my beliefs, so that's why he has my vote.)

btw....I'm not ultra rich....not even close! and I still believe that McCain is better choice for Pres....but liberal people (here) keep telling me that that means I am indifferent to the needs of the poor, that I am clueless, heartless, stupid even!

[txmusicmom]

And none of the giving has to be disclosed..........and he refuses to......:shrug.

unlike public campaign money-

[Scorpiosue1102]

Actually, according to Federal law it does not require the campaigns to identify donors who give less than $200 during the election cycle. I myself have given about $150 to his campaign. I also give to various charities. It's what I want to do with my money.

If I was a politician and I thought I could get more donations from individual donors heck yeah I'd take it.

[Chreamps]

...EVERYONE hates Republicans and how they have ruined our country....right?......but liberal people (here) keep telling me that that means I am indifferent to the needs of the poor, that I am clueless, heartless, stupid even!... __________________
Hating Republicans? I haven't seen that mentioned by anyone, however, I have seen some derogatory comments very early on in the political threads about some liberal views in general (not by you). Just that the present Administration is not highly thought of, not you specifically. A lot of it is the fault of both parties, IMHO, as to the mess in this country right now.

I am truly sorry that you feel that way. Everyone is entitled to their beliefs and how they justify voting for the candidate of their choice - we just happen to disagree.

As far as the election in the bag for Obama, even he doesn't believe that. McCain has stated he doesn't believe that either. I have not seen anyone mention it here - they can hope it, though, for either candidate.

Please, I know it is hard at times, but try not to take it so personally. This has been a very emotionally charged campaign for all of us. We all care about this country.

ETA: I would like to see campaign donations gotten rid of entirely and we could all see the candidates give factual and detailed information as to why we should vote for them on C-Span, and a PDF document with a detailed plan laid out that we could download and review (and send in questions) on their websites. Yes, I know I'm dreaming.

[Charlene]

no, you misunderstood me.
The money paid would be better utilized by the poor (in the form of charity) than it is to continue to give to a campaign when I continually keep hearing that McCain has absolutely no chance of winning.

Obama could really use this as an opportunity to encourage people to put their money to better use....you know, since there is no way McCain could win. I mean, EVERYONE hates Republicans and how they have ruined our country....right?

Only the ultra rich could possibly believe that McCain could actually be better choice for our country....right? Because OBAMA is going to give everyone else more money....only the evil rich will feel any pinch at all. Will he put that in writing please? I mean suddenly we are to believe that *magically* everything a politician says he is going to do will happen exactly the way he promises...? (and no, I don't believe McCain will either, but I believe he is closer to my beliefs, so that's why he has my vote.)

btw....I'm not ultra rich....not even close! and I still believe that McCain is better choice for Pres....but liberal people (here) keep telling me that that means I am indifferent to the needs of the poor, that I am clueless, heartless, stupid even!

Well, LOL, I for one HOPE you're right but I'm not considering the election in the bag AT ALL.

And, FWIW, we've given to charity in recent months too. Our charitable donations have far outweighed our donations to Obama's campaign.

[photojenic]

I don't think Obama has this election sewn up, and he knows it. There are too many variables. MSM may WANT us to think that he's all but nominated, but they've been wrong before.

Statistics can be skewed however you like, and it's easy to do. My college class in Statistics about killed me, but it was a real eye opener. I think the MSM is hoping that if they say it often enough (Obama is dominating the polls, everyone wants him, etc.) that it will discourage potential McCain voters into not voting. But because this is an historic election, it's impossible to know just how the voters may react. Perhaps MORE ppl will come out to vote just because it's historic.

It's also hard to account for the Bradley effect (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bradley_effect), since this is the first black man to run for President. Just how many ppl will SAY they are for Obama because they don't want to appear racist?

There are also some Hillary supporters that feel angry with the Democratic party for choosing Obama. Plus there has been quite a few gender slurs (http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,437622,00.html) (see video) from the Obama camp (not himself, but his supporters), that have left women feeling somewhat betrayed by the Party. Not necessarily because they picked Obama, but because they have been allowing (are at least not addressing) the anti-woman sentiments.

Plus, there are voters who are sick of both parties (gee....I wonder why? lol...) and will vote for someone else entirely. It will be interesting to see how it all comes out in the end.

[NellieRose]

WOW- where is all that $604 million coming from ?-- I thought our economy was shot.

Originally Obama agreed to limit fund raising and take the public $84 million cap. But he changed his mind-

"As reporters gathered at Washington's St. Regis Hotel were quick to point out, that would make Obama the first presidential candidate since Republican Richard Nixon to raise unlimited private funds for his race. And it represents a 180-degree pivot from his earlier pledge to participate in the public system if his opponent does the same."

Well McCain agreed and signed. Obama changed his mind and didn't.

This comes from USA News - and world report

http://www.usnews.com/blogs/washington-whispers/2008/6/19/obamas-campaign-defends-decision-to-opt-out-of-public-financing.html

It's not new news--but in light of the record fund raising, I thought it would be a good time to visit it again--- $150 in one month.....

So what do you think?

Have you ever had the occasion to make a decision and then, at a later point in time, realize there were additional circumstances you were unaware of at the time you made your initial decision & in light of new found facts changed your position? Sometimes that's when we change our minds in an effort to make a better informed decision....... just a thought.

If we are to believe the media...he already has the election in the bag....so why is he still accepting these unprecedented amounts of money for his campaign?

You'd think since he has such a genuine and admirable concern for the poor he would come out and publicly implore to stop sending him money and instead give that money to charity.

So now because the media says so it's a done deal??? The only way anyone already knows the outcome of this election is they had part in rigging the system. For once people are believing what the so-called "liberal media" has to say?????

Let's think back to 2004 when the election night exit polling clearly showed John Kerry as "having it in the bag"...and look how that turned out.

And, as for your snarky remarks of Sen. Obama's concern for the poor how do you know he WON'T be using additional or surplus funding for the greater good???? Even if it were his greatest wish to do so it may not even be legal with all the rules in force when it comes to collecting these campaign funds.

Good thing he is collecting the amounts he has, it has come in handy to help fight the blatant lies, the smears and the not so subtle prejudicial statements thrown out there my the McCain campaign. Such a large number of funds proves the general public is interested and committed to his campaign and the symbol of hope he has become for many in this country. The total funds raised turns out to be an average of $86/donor.

Oh, c'mon, are we really going down this road? I highly doubt he is receiving campaign donations from the very poor.

I've donated to his campaign on several occasions and consider it an investment in my family's future.

Even if he were to receive $5 from someone that is "poor" it is their choice to spend the money how they see fit and I applaud them for taking what little they may have, possibly sacrificing of themselves and trying to further a chance for a better future for ALL people.

I agree, it is an investment but, I see it as an investment in the future of the world and not just this country nor just my family.

[NellieRose]

Only the ultra rich could possibly believe that McCain could actually be better choice for our country....right? Because OBAMA is going to give everyone else more money....only the evil rich will feel any pinch at all. Will he put that in writing please? I mean suddenly we are to believe that *magically* everything a politician says he is going to do will happen exactly the way he promises...? (and no, I don't believe McCain will either, but I believe he is closer to my beliefs, so that's why he has my vote.)

My support of Barack Obama and Joe Biden has absolutely nothing to do with money...in fact, if he were campaigning on the platform that he would have to raise my taxes I would STILL be in support of him.

Never would I vote for a candidate based solely upon what it means for myself...I care about my neighbors and every other human being n the face of this earth. I am not so selfish to simply vote for what works for me and for me alone.....the world would be a much better place if there were good things for all people. Will it happen? Who knows, but I certainly will throw my weight behind the candidate that is willing to take on the challenges facing the people of my country as well as the people of the world.


And none of the giving has to be disclosed..........and he refuses to......:shrug.

unlike public campaign money-

Number one he doesn't have to and number two, why should you care? Will it make a difference to see a list of "x million" donors and how many times they donated $5 or $20????? McCain made his bed and now must lie in it - he had the same option available and chose not to take it.

[tammy1999]

WOW- where is all that $604 million coming from ?-- I thought our economy was shot.

Originally Obama agreed to limit fund raising and take the public $84 million cap. But he changed his mind-

"As reporters gathered at Washington's St. Regis Hotel were quick to point out, that would make Obama the first presidential candidate since Republican Richard Nixon to raise unlimited private funds for his race. And it represents a 180-degree pivot from his earlier pledge to participate in the public system if his opponent does the same."



What a great point. Is this the sign of what's in the future if he is elected. Oh, I agree to do this, but then makes a 180 on that dicision. And I wonder if he will "spread the wealth" with the left overs he might have in that fund.

[daly]

Hating Republicans? I haven't seen that mentioned by anyone, however, I have seen some derogatory comments very early on in the political threads about some liberal views in general (not by you). Just that the present Administration is not highly thought of, not you specifically. A lot of it is the fault of both parties, IMHO, as to the mess in this country right now.

I am truly sorry that you feel that way. Everyone is entitled to their beliefs and how they justify voting for the candidate of their choice - we just happen to disagree.

As far as the election in the bag for Obama, even he doesn't believe that. McCain has stated he doesn't believe that either. I have not seen anyone mention it here - they can hope it, though, for either candidate.

Please, I know it is hard at times, but try not to take it so personally. This has been a very emotionally charged campaign for all of us. We all care about this country.

ETA: I would like to see campaign donations gotten rid of entirely and we could all see the candidates give factual and detailed information as to why we should vote for them on C-Span, and a PDF document with a detailed plan laid out that we could download and review (and send in questions) on their websites. Yes, I know I'm dreaming.

YOu are right :) <hugs and thanks>
I've been watching too much biased media and it's getting to me. -Plus all the back and forth here....I'm starting to 'crack'. And when I do that I get 'sarcastic'.:blush

I think I need to just 'walk away' from this politics section.

(but if I do that then all you liberals will talk about me behind my back...won't you? :p kidding, kidding.)

Maybe I need an intervention....?

[Chreamps]

Maybe when it's all over, we'll all need a 12 step program (LOL) to detox from politics.

[caridura]

I really don't believe anything is 'in the bag' regardless of what the media or polls may say. lol Obama doesn't even believe that.

[NellieRose]

...... And it represents a 180-degree pivot from his earlier pledge to participate in the public system if his opponent does the same."

Well McCain agreed and signed. Obama changed his mind and didn't.

..........

So what do you think?

What a great point. Is this the sign of what's in the future if he is elected. Oh, I agree to do this, but then makes a 180 on that dicision. And I wonder if he will "spread the wealth" with the left overs he might have in that fund.

Well, in all fairness, Sen. McCain also once said he would NOT ever use "RoboCalls" but he is.......that's a 180 degree turn.

[HLWalter725]

What a great point. Is this the sign of what's in the future if he is elected. Oh, I agree to do this, but then makes a 180 on that decision. . . .

Well, I think it is truly unfortunate that so many politicians don't keep their promises or change their direction on something. But you can't really choose to vote based on this particular issue, seeing how both sides have done it. I'm very disappointed that today's McCain is a nothing like the man he was 8 years ago, and he has continually done some 180's on his stated views.

I'm sure you and I and all of here can dig up a time in our life when we said one thing and eventually changed our tune later on. It happens. We get more information, we change to meet our needs, nothing is ever stable.

[vegaschristina]

Well, in all fairness, Sen. McCain also once said he would NOT ever use "RoboCalls" but he is.......that's a 180 degree turn.

He also pledged a "clean" campaign. Then they publicly announce that they will move away from a real issue...the economy...and turn to a smear & fear tactic instead:

Greg Strimple, one of McCain's top advisers. "We are looking forward to turning a page on this financial crisis (http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/10/03/AR2008100303738.html)

[txmusicmom]

Have you ever had the occasion to make a decision and then, at a later point in time, realize there were additional circumstances you were unaware of at the time you made your initial decision & in light of new found facts changed your position? Sometimes that's when we change our minds in an effort to make a better informed decision....... just a thought.

ABSOLUTELY!!! Done so many times myself. The problem is that he and McCain agreed to do it this way- He surely had the right to change his mind-- but before McCain signed- and let McCain know- Hey-- I think I'm not going to do this.......No problem.....His change of mind greatly affected someone else.

THAT is what I have a problem with.........

[txmusicmom]

(but if I do that then all you liberals will talk about me behind my back...won't you? :p kidding, kidding.)

Maybe I need an intervention....?

:rofl2 Right there with you! :lol3

[snaggletooth75]

If any politican kept their promises and didnt chaneg their minds then they wouldnt be politicians LOL and it is unfortunate cause you cant trust ANY of them
Well, I think it is truly unfortunate that so many politicians don't keep their promises or change their direction on something. But you can't really choose to vote based on this particular issue, seeing how both sides have done it. I'm very disappointed that today's McCain is a nothing like the man he was 8 years ago, and he has continually done some 180's on his stated views.

I'm sure you and I and all of here can dig up a time in our life when we said one thing and eventually changed our tune later on. It happens. We get more information, we change to meet our needs, nothing is ever stable.

[Babette]

Maybe when it's all over, we'll all need a 12 step program (LOL) to detox from politics.

LOL LOL LOL .... OMG Chris, my husband just told me that he was going to look for a 12 step for me! LOL

[daly]

It's also hard to account for the Bradley effect (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bradley_effect), since this is the first black man to run for President. Just how many ppl will SAY they are for Obama because they don't want to appear racist?


Yes, I have heard some black people (calling in to talk Radio) saying the same thing. They have to 'pretend' they are voting for Obama so their friends and family won't ridicule them.

I have no idea though if this is a large percentage though.:shrug

[daly]

LOL LOL LOL .... OMG Chris, my husband just told me that he was going to look for a 12 step for me! LOL

My husband just threatened to take away my keyboard....lol

[Theresa Hernandez]

Count me as one of those small donors. As soon as I heard Palin's speech at the RNC, I ran to my computer and made my first donation. I've donated a total of $175. Not a lot, but it's what I could afford.

[4PeasInMyPod]

Oh, c'mon, are we really going down this road? I highly doubt he is receiving campaign donations from the very poor.

I've donated to his campaign on several occasions and consider it an investment in my family's future.

My thoughts exactly; I made my third donation to Obama's campaign yesterday.

[Babette]

My husband just threatened to take away my keyboard....lol

Oh no!!! Mine hasn't said that yet ... being cordless, it would be really easy! lol Hmmm ... maybe I should cook some extra special dinner sometime SOON! lol

[Scorpiosue1102]

Well, in all fairness, Sen. McCain also once said he would NOT ever use "RoboCalls" but he is.......that's a 180 degree turn.


Here's what gets me about the RoboCalls is that he is using the same firm that did RoboCalls against HIM in 2000. How on earth do you do that?

[Babette]

Here's what gets me about the RoboCalls is that he is using the same firm that did RoboCalls against HIM in 2000. How on earth do you do that?

Well, maybe he figures it worked for the other side? lol lol

[Charlene]

I agree, it is an investment but, I see it as an investment in the future of the world and not just this country nor just my family.

Yeah, I see it that way too but, ultimately, I see what is good for our country/world as good for my family as well.

[4noisyboys]

Well, since we are on the topic of money, how about the fact that the RNC spent $150,000 on outfitting Palin and her family? There was about $75,000 to Neiman Marcus, some to Saks Fifth Avenue and a smaller amount to Macy's. Maybe they could've shopped at Wal-mart and given the rest to charity.

[Kim Mauch]

I have made several small donations to the Obama campaign as well. I've never been inclined to donate before this campaign. Barack Obama has lead many people who were otherwise disenfranchised by politics to become involved in the process and support his campaign. There is nothing sinister going on here, just millions of people donating what they can to a canidate that they know can bring about change.

[Babette]

Well, since we are on the topic of money, how about the fact that the RNC spent $150,000 on outfitting Palin and her family? There was about $75,000 to Neiman Marcus, some to Saks Fifth Avenue and a smaller amount to Macy's. Maybe they could've shopped at Wal-mart and given the rest to charity.

Also included was stuff for the baby - but, that was "only" $285! lol

[Babette]

I have made several small donations to the Obama campaign as well. I've never been inclined to donate before this campaign. Barack Obama has lead many people who were otherwise disenfranchised by politics to become involved in the process and support his campaign. There is nothing sinister going on here, just millions of people donating what they can to a canidate that they know can bring about change.

That's the thing - he has been able to make people CARE again; giving them (us) hope that we can make a difference.

[Theresa Hernandez]

That's the thing - he has been able to make people CARE again; giving them (us) hope that we can make a difference.

Stop!! You're getting me all hot and bothered.

[Babette]

Stop!! You're getting me all hot and bothered.

lol lol ... hmmm ... isn't that a good thing? *smiles*

[scribler]

From what I've read most of the money is in the form of small donations of approx. $100. I think it just goes to show how much support he has from people in America. If we had extra money I certainly would have donated to him.

Actually that is not true at all. Here's an article from the Washington Post showing that in reality, only 25% the money raised comes from contributors giving less than $200 dollars. And in fact, this actually slightly less, as a percentage than what Bush received in 2004 from small donors.

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/10/21/AR2008102102996.html?nav=rss_email/components&sid=ST2008102103028&s_pos=

I'm not complaining about how much he raised, just wanted to dispel some myths regarding where that money is coming from.

[Chreamps]

Off topic here, Scribler did you get your t-shirt yet?

[txmusicmom]

Well, since we are on the topic of money, how about the fact that the RNC spent $150,000 on outfitting Palin and her family? There was about $75,000 to Neiman Marcus, some to Saks Fifth Avenue and a smaller amount to Macy's. Maybe they could've shopped at Wal-mart and given the rest to charity.

I'm definitely NOT for excessive spending..................

maybe I should run for President- a think a band of us digiscrappers could whip that budget into shape!!!! :p DAMES-- Digiscrappers Against Most Excessive Spending ( I had to stick the M in there .........to get the right word) Anyone game??? :lol

But how about Obama's upcoming 30 minute air time- his air time at the world series...........?

I think ALL politicians need a wakeup call................

[kjbstevens]

I don't care about channels people can control and if he wants to spend him money on that whatever. People that don't like it can change the channel. I'm just really not impressed with him buying the Dish Network error channel. That takes away respect for people that don't hold his views. There is a point of obnoxiousness/over the lineness they all hit and that finally set me over on that. There is a point getting your message across switches to forcing yourself upon people. Buying a channel... whatever. Buying the error channel.... pushing it past the point to me. I'd be the same way if I had to look at McCain's grumpy mug on there too. People should have choice and an error channel that directs you on a paid service to have to listen to promises democrat or republican is a little wrong especially if the thing goes out and he is all there is. That happened to us the other day.

[scribler]

Off topic here, Scribler did you get your t-shirt yet?

Not yet! Dang! I thinking I gotta get that on order now.

[Chreamps]

Not yet! Dang! I thinking I gotta get that on order now.

Wonder if that would be considered as "illegal" at the polls (LOL).

[scribler]

Probably, cause everyone would think I was talking about their candidate. lol

[kjbstevens]

Probably, cause everyone would think I was talking about their candidate. lol
But maybe they'd realize it was everyone's candidate and lighten up a little. :lol

[Chreamps]

But maybe they'd realize it was everyone's candidate and lighten up a little. :lol

That was my thought, too.

[scribler]

That was my thought, too.

See, y'all have my hope than me. lol

[Haley64]

ABSOLUTELY!!! Done so many times myself. The problem is that he and McCain agreed to do it this way- He surely had the right to change his mind-- but before McCain signed- and let McCain know- Hey-- I think I'm not going to do this.......No problem.....His change of mind greatly affected someone else.

THAT is what I have a problem with.........


He "that he and McCain " as in Obama?

Now what you are saying above is like the star quarterback going over to the defense of the opposing team and telling them which way he is going to run the ball down the field?

I do not think that announcing your game strategies is the way it is done in too many platforms! :)

[CACTUSmango Designs]

WOW- where is all that $604 million coming from ?-- I thought our economy was shot.

Originally Obama agreed to limit fund raising and take the public $84 million cap. But he changed his mind-

"As reporters gathered at Washington's St. Regis Hotel were quick to point out, that would make Obama the first presidential candidate since Republican Richard Nixon to raise unlimited private funds for his race. And it represents a 180-degree pivot from his earlier pledge to participate in the public system if his opponent does the same."

Well McCain agreed and signed. Obama changed his mind and didn't.

This comes from USA News - and world report

http://www.usnews.com/blogs/washington-whispers/2008/6/19/obamas-campaign-defends-decision-to-opt-out-of-public-financing.html

It's not new news--but in light of the record fund raising, I thought it would be a good time to visit it again--- $150 in one month.....

So what do you think?

I'm glad he re-evaluated and chose to accept private funding.

I think I've invested in my future, my future family's future, our countries future and the world's by donating to the Obama. I think that the amount of people that donate $5, $10, $25 whatever...is testament to how many people want to see Barack Obama lead our country as they are investing in him. Putting that into the campaign trail, TV spots to speak to a broader group of people, etc. then that is good and I expect that.

I have every confidence that if permissible with whatever the election rules are on the funding, that Obama will make sure that the excess funding will be used properly.

[ccubed]

LOL LOL LOL .... OMG Chris, my husband just told me that he was going to look for a 12 step for me! LOL

hAHa! I just saw this Newsweek article: Election Junkies Face Life After the Campaign (http://www.newsweek.com/id/166535). The first two lines of the article warn, "There are no meetings or support groups. There is no 12-step program."

:giggle

[Chreamps]

Thanks, that was a great article, this part kinda cracked me up:

...They decided to hold off on having more children, as well as some major renovations on their house, until after the election....

[scribler]

But it did suggest maybe you could take up a hobby, so I guess that is when we can actually get some scrapping done. lol

[Gina.Maria]

Hey! We're already there! and we can "scrap" the experience! :D

[Digi Web Studio]

Here's my 2 cents :p

1. With all due respect, I don't see how a comparison can be made between the 150K on palin's clothes and the 600M Obama is spending, but I'll agree to disagree. :)
2. I don't have a problem with Obama "changing" his mind about the public funds. What I do have a problem with is he agreed to "talk about it with mccain FIRST", and that didn't happen.
3. It does personally bother me that so much was spent on his campaign. I think it's VERY excessive. But I'm a tightwad.

With all of that being said, it's NONE OF MY BUSINESS THOUGH. As I said in another post, they do what they need to do. If it's all legal, which is appears to be, then that's their perogative to spend it like they need to - and that includes BOTH sides. :)