Leaving the Campaign Trail

[txmusicmom]

Once again we see the media bias..........

Obama has announced he's leaving the campaign trail to visit his ailing grandmother........

Comments include- oh the American people will understand
He doesn't care the results- he's going to visit his grandmother
the tone was very accepting and supportive

Now understand this- I have NO problem with him making this decision- it's his to make.......she raised him and sounds like an incredible woman.

BUT

When John McCain left the campaign trail--- to go do his JOB as a SENATOR........
Comments included--- Oh it's just a political tactic
the tone was very suspicious
even here in this forum-- very negative comments
on his decision

AGAIN- This is NOT against Obama---it's just a DOUBLE standard.

[Keely~B]

I see the two situations completely differently. If McCain had left the trail because a family member was in crisis, it would have been different story. I don't think anyone would have questioned his motives had that been the case.

[Charlene]

Sorry but, if you're aiming for an apples to apples comparison, I think this is a huge stretch.

There's a huge difference between visiting an ailing grandmother and doing his "job" (which was also a stretch - there was NOTHING he could do as Senator that couldn't have been handled remotely).

Furthermore, there is nothing suspicious in Obama's timing. Had he decided to make this visit AND attempt to cancel a long-scheduled debate...then you'd have grounds for comparison.

[kjbstevens]

It is a double standard but I'm glad he did it. Even though he never seems to talk to highly about them by calling her racist and all he is doing the right thing if she is really sick. I thought McCain did the right thing by doing his job and I believe taking care of sick family is also the responsibillity of the family. There would be worse backlash if she died and he hadn't gone so if even if it's just stunt it's a lot better than looking uncaring in the long run. I hope she gets better.

[Charlene]

I don't think it's a double standard at all. Again, it's all in the timing. Obama's hiatus affects no one but himself. McCain's hiatus nearly derailed a long-scheduled debate. Apples to oranges!

[kjbstevens]

The key word is nearly. It didn't affect the debate at all. He did his job then got to the debate. It didn't affect anyone but himself and I guess Obama because then he had to go do his job too instead of campaigning. Whether it affected it bill or not it is what we are paying them to do.

[HLWalter725]

I really don't see how these two things can be compared. There is only things for Obama to lose in this, though I really doubt that anyone who wants to vote for him will care if he cancels a rally because of an ailing grandparent. Quite honestly, McCain's decision to try and cancel the debate and rush to Washington, where he wasn't needed until voting time, had lot of implications to himself AND to his oponent. If it was about doing his job, because he was on the finance committee, I wouldn't feel this way -- but he isn't. It is hardly the same as leaving the campaign after the debates are over in the busiest two weeks of the campaign because you are afraid that the grandmother who raised you might be on her death bed.

I think comparing these two events and crying "double standard" is ridiculous.

[strangejen]

I think comparing these two events and crying "double standard" is ridiculous.

yup yup.

[maggie965]

This really is the lowest of the low but somehow I expected to see a thread on this. I think he's doing the right thing and to even imply that this is a stunt is sickening. It's an entirely different matter. No matter what your job or potential job, family comes first!

And with John McCain supposedly going back to Washington to do his job, 1) it's not his job, he probably had very little influence on the outcome 2) he never actually stopped his campaign. 3) it was clear it was a stunt because he needed time to regroup and came out slinging mud after that.

[Charlene]

The key word is nearly. It didn't affect the debate at all. He did his job then got to the debate. It didn't affect anyone but himself and I guess Obama because then he had to go do his job too instead of campaigning. Whether it affected it bill or not it is what we are paying them to do.

Right, so in the end, I don't think it was a big deal at all that McCain left. It was that he attempted to cancel/postpone the debates that got people all in a tizzy.

[sunnie2004]

I think it is good he visiting his grandmother but on the flip side did she just get so ill he felt the need to do this? Or has he been neglecting this ailing Grandmother till now & feels really sad he has been?

[HLWalter725]

I think it is good he visiting his grandmother but on the flip side did she just get so ill he felt the need to do this? Or has he been neglecting this ailing Grandmother till now & feels really sad he has been?

I believe they said on the news last night that he spent a week with her in August, though it may have been less than a week. I think this is a resonable amount of time between visits for someone this busy and with so much land between them. When my grandmother was in the last years of her life, I lived across the country and the best I could do was visit her once every 3-5 months.

[txmusicmom]

Sigh...........................I said- I have NO problem with him doing so--- I commend him............

But when our country was in one of the worst financial situations...........it wasn't OK for McCain to do his job..........A senator is supposed to be there--- to come up with a solution NOT just to vote........

So the debate was MORE important than the potential meltdown of our financial system?? I realize money and time was invested- I know- I know.

I will have to admit- I come to these boards in good faith..........I try to meet the other side halfway........and understand where you are coming from. I really enjoy trying to understand your point- even if I disagree-

But to yall- it's all or nothing............I'm sorry-- that frustrates me...........

I'm not trying to give ANY bad impression of Obama because of this-actually to me, it's a positive- just would like the same courtesy given to McCain..........

[maggie965]

It is a double standard but I'm glad he did it. Even though he never seems to talk to highly about them by calling her racist and all he is doing the right thing if she is really sick. I thought McCain did the right thing by doing his job and I believe taking care of sick family is also the responsibillity of the family. There would be worse backlash if she died and he hadn't gone so if even if it's just stunt it's a lot better than looking uncaring in the long run. I hope she gets better.

I can't believe you are calling this a double standard. He's cancelling appearances which could hurt HIM in the long run. It has no effect on McCain except maybe to boost him a bit in the polls. And even if he did call his grandmother racist, what does that have to do with the price of tea in China? It sounds like another attempt to demean him to me. The fact is she's on her death bed (so it seems) and he's doing the right thing by going to be by her side.

[maggie965]

Sigh...........................I said- I have NO problem with him doing so--- I commend him............

But when our country was in one of the worst financial situations...........he wasn't OK for McCain to do his job..........

It would have been ok if he really had a say in the resolution. He had a vote that's it and he didn't need to cancel everything to handle that.

[daly]

I really don't see how these two things can be compared. There is only things for Obama to lose in this, though I really doubt that anyone who wants to vote for him will care if he cancels a rally because of an ailing grandparent. Quite honestly, McCain's decision to try and cancel the debate and rush to Washington, where he wasn't needed until voting time, had lot of implications to himself AND to his oponent. If it was about doing his job, because he was on the finance committee, I wouldn't feel this way -- but he isn't. It is hardly the same as leaving the campaign after the debates are over in the busiest two weeks of the campaign because you are afraid that the grandmother who raised you might be on her death bed.

I think comparing these two events and crying "double standard" is ridiculous.

McCain did not want to cancel the debate, he wanted to postpone it. But having said that...I was extremely pleased that he went to Washington to do his job AND he made the debate. I thought it showed real leadership and good example of putting the country first.

[Charlene]

It would have been ok if he really had a say in the resolution. He had a vote that's it and he didn't need to cancel everything to handle that.

Bears repeating :agree

People can make whatever comparisons they want but, I'm sorry, there is NO COMPARISON to be made here. There just isn't.

[kjbstevens]

No no no not him leaving being a double standard. It's the way the media treats them with this. Point is the debate did not get canceled and he voted and went back to the campaign. It was his choice. Both of these guys still have jobs that our tax money is going towards paying still. It sort of bugs me they both have just let those jobs slide. It shows how important they both really are in running the country because even if they aren't in session right now they have gone months without them and still survived just fine. That should show something about voting people from the Senate for president to start with.

[strangejen]

And even if he did call his grandmother racist

my understanding of what he said, was that even though she was raising him and loved him, she, like many white people, has that gut-level fear reaction when she sees a black guy coming toward her on an empty street . . . something like that . . . it was more a comment of how even those who aren't racist in the ways of looking down on black folks or thinking they are lesser or have no rights . . . there's still often an underlying fear in our culture, which shows that we still have some work to do in the race relations area.

hope that makes sense . . . I haven't finished my coffee yet. I appreciate his candor, personally, but that's because I like him. LOL

[txmusicmom]

It would have been ok if he really had a say in the resolution. He had a vote that's it and he didn't need to cancel everything to handle that.

That's exactly what he was doing.............who is it then to decide? The senators are to work TOGETHER to come up with the best solution-- give ideas.......DEBATE.........question..........suppo rt.

Who has a say? If not all the senators-

Obama said- he doesn't care if it affects him-
McCain- said the same-

Let's give them BOTH RESPECT for making decisions that they feel is right.

[maggie965]

my understanding of what he said, was that even though she was raising him and loved him, she, like many white people, has that gut-level fear reaction when she sees a black guy coming toward her on an empty street . . . something like that . . . it was more a comment of how even those who aren't racist in the ways of looking down on black folks or thinking they are lesser or have no rights . . . there's still often an underlying fear in our culture, which shows that we still have some work to do in the race relations area.

hope that makes sense . . . I haven't finished my coffee yet. I appreciate his candor, personally, but that's because I like him. LOL

It was in his first book right? I vaguely remembered something but don't have time to go look right now so I didn't want to respond incorrectly... I to like his candor which makes me lean more towards him.

[Charlene]

No no no not him leaving being a double standard. It's the way the media treats them with this. Point is the debate did not get canceled and he voted and went back to the campaign. It was his choice. Both of these guys still have jobs that our tax money is going towards paying still. It sort of bugs me they both have just let those jobs slide. It shows how important they both really are in running the country because even if they aren't in session right now they have gone months without them and still survived just fine. That should show something about voting people from the Senate for president to start with.

The media is treating it differently because it IS different.

Them campaigning while on the job is a different issue. It happens pretty much every election season; I don't know what the solution is or if there needs to be one.

[maggie965]

That's exactly what he was doing.............who is it then to decide? The senators are to work TOGETHER to come up with the best solution-- give ideas.......DEBATE.........question..........suppo rt.

Who has a say? If not all the senators-

He's not on the Finance committee is what I meant, it's up to them to hammer out the details of the plan so that it can be presented to the full Senate. That's my point, he didnt' need to be there until they were ready to present the plan and then he could cast his vote. But what concerned me more was that he SAID he was cancelling his campaign (including ads) but he didn't, at least not where I live.

[HLWalter725]

McCain did not want to cancel the debate, he wanted to postpone it. But having said that...I was extremely pleased that he went to Washington to do his job AND he made the debate. I thought it showed real leadership and good example of putting the country first.

I was extremely pleased with the way it turned out as well. I think his original take on it was politically motivated, he saw that it wasn't being perceived well for him to consider postponing the debate (one that cost the hosting school a great deal of money) and changed his mind (it does happen) to make the best decision he could. I respect that.

I prefer Obama, but I don't hate McCain. I want for both parties to make decisions that assure me that whomever wins this race I will be able to stand behind them and put my trust in them.

[txmusicmom]

I prefer Obama, but I don't hate McCain. I want for both parties to make decisions that assure me that whomever wins this race I will be able to stand behind them and put my trust in them.

THANK YOU! That's all I'm asking-

Mutual respect! ( even while disagreeing......and respect for the candidates)

[Scorpiosue1102]

He's not on the Finance committee is what I meant, it's up to them to hammer out the details of the plan so that it can be presented to the full Senate. That's my point, he didnt' need to be there until they were ready to present the plan and then he could cast his vote. But what concerned me more was that he SAID he was cancelling his campaign (including ads) but he didn't, at least not where I live.


Great point. He was not on a committee that would have anything to do with the make up of the bill. Yes, McCain could have been a senior senator on the hill, but he could have made phone calls/conferences via the campaign trail. The only thing that was needed of McCain was his vote. As President you can't suspend an economic crisis if a hurricane comes hits the gulf states or if some other catastrophe happens.

Obama is leaving the campaign trail to visit his ailing grandmother; the woman that raised him from age 10 to 18. Instead of questioning why he leaving the campaign we should have him and his grandmother in our prayers. He's already lost his mother, father and grandfather so I cannot even imagine having to deal with a gravely ill grandmother/parental figure head.

[4noisyboys]

Obama is leaving the campaign trail to visit his ailing grandmother; the woman that raised him from age 10 to 18. Instead of questioning why he leaving the campaign we should have him and his grandmother in our prayers. He's already lost his mother, father and grandfather so I cannot even imagine having to deal with a gravely ill grandmother/parental figure head.

This is my thought exactly. Nothing else needs to be said about it. I can't believe a thread was even started about something like this. You're scraping the bottom of the barrel if you think that this is anything comparable to McCain postponing his campaign. Apples and oranges.

My prayers are with Obama and his grandmother. This might be a goodbye...

[NellieRose]

Sigh...........................I said- I have NO problem with him doing so--- I commend him............

But when our country was in one of the worst financial situations...........it wasn't OK for McCain to do his job..........A senator is supposed to be there--- to come up with a solution NOT just to vote........

So the debate was MORE important than the potential meltdown of our financial system?? I realize money and time was invested- I know- I know.

I will have to admit- I come to these boards in good faith..........I try to meet the other side halfway........and understand where you are coming from. I really enjoy trying to understand your point- even if I disagree-

But to yall- it's all or nothing............I'm sorry-- that frustrates me...........

I'm not trying to give ANY bad impression of Obama because of this-actually to me, it's a positive- just would like the same courtesy given to McCain..........

At the point he made his announcement to leave the campaign trail there was nothing for him to do being he wasn't on the Committee hammering out the issues. Neither candidate would have been needed until there was to be a vote on a proposed solution. And, as Obama stated at that time, they know where I am and they can call me if they need me.

Let's also not forget that when President Bush did hold a meeting in which both candidates attended, McCain said nothing and Obama at least had the nerve to speak up with his view/opinion.

[NellieRose]

This is my thought exactly. Nothing else needs to be said about it. I can't believe a thread was even started about something like this. You're scraping the bottom of the barrel if you think that this is anything comparable to McCain postponing his campaign. Apples and oranges.

My prayers are with Obama and his grandmother. This might be a goodbye...

What Debra said.

[vegaschristina]

The difference between the two, IMHO, is that Obama is going to the bedside of a sick relative.

McCain said he was going to stop campaigning to help fix the financial crisis. He didn't stop campaigning. There were still commercials, there were still his people all over TV, there were still rallies. He said he was going back to DC to provide his expertise. He's repeatedly said the economy was not his strength. He attended a meeting with Bush and Obama and offered no insight or suggestion. He said he would not debate unless there was a resolution. There was not yet he was at the debate.

These are vast differences and if it were opposite (McCain visiting sick family/Obama not campaigning due to economy crisis without actually not campaigning) I'd feel just as strongly that these are NOT the same thing.

[Gina.Maria]

my understanding of what he said, was that even though she was raising him and loved him, she, like many white people, has that gut-level fear reaction when she sees a black guy coming toward her on an empty street . . . something like that . . . it was more a comment of how even those who aren't racist in the ways of looking down on black folks or thinking they are lesser or have no rights . . . there's still often an underlying fear in our culture, which shows that we still have some work to do in the race relations area.

hope that makes sense . . . I haven't finished my coffee yet. I appreciate his candor, personally, but that's because I like him. LOL

Thank you. That really needed addressing.

-----

Obama did no less than his job from the trail and he didn't pull a media stunt to make us feel that he cared more than his opponent. McCain's urgent rush to D.C. was waylaid by media appearances that put his concern to the lie.

McCain may have said he didn't care if it affected him but the truth is he hoped it would affect him - positively.

Plus, there's a difference between "leaving the campaign trail" and "suspending my campaign." McCain's campaign was never really suspended, now, was it? In the end, both candidates left the trail to return to Washington and vote. The difference was in who stood in front of cameras suggesting that his input was essential when, in fact, members of the Finance Committee specifically stated they didn't want or need his input. How much media coverage did McCain get when he "suspended his campaign?" That doesn't count in the "equal time" rules. He managed to grab more media time (free, no less) for his campaign in order to say he was suspending it.

[txmusicmom]

Once again -

I reiterate -- THERE IS NOTHING WRONG -- I do wish Obama and his grandmother all the best..........

It seems you tend to always see the good in Obama- ( which I totally agree in this)
but always expect the worst in McCain......you seem to be suspect of his inner thoughts and reasonings....
You can have an opinion---but it might be right/ and it might be wrong.....but it seems you never give him the benefit of the doubt.

This is NOT about him going to see his grandmother- good grief-

It's about the media and public perception........

[strangejen]

It seems you tend to always see the good in Obama- ( which I totally agree in this)
but always expect the worst in McCain......

I can see how McCain supporters might think this . . . because as an Obama supporter, I feel like McCain's supporters act that way about information about him.

When we all feel so strongly about this election, everything we hear and read is going to be colored by our already strong feelings one way or the other.

[Charlene]

Once again -

I reiterate -- THERE IS NOTHING WRONG -- I do wish Obama and his grandmother all the best..........

It seems you tend to always see the good in Obama- ( which I totally agree in this)
but always expect the worst in McCain......

This is NOT about him going to see his grandmother- good grief-

It's about the media and public perception........

I don't mind repeating myself ;) :
The media is treating it differently because it IS different.

[NellieRose]

Once again -

I reiterate -- THERE IS NOTHING WRONG -- I do wish Obama and his grandmother all the best..........

It seems you tend to always see the good in Obama- ( which I totally agree in this)
but always expect the worst in McCain......

This is NOT about him going to see his grandmother- good grief-

It's about the media and public perception........

Donna, I am at a loss to see where this even warrants a comparison between the good of Obama or bad of MCain (to paraphrase you)?

Did McCain leave the campaign trail to visit a sick or ailing friend or family member???

[txmusicmom]

I can see how McCain supporters might think this . . . because as an Obama supporter, I feel like McCain's supporters act that way about information about him.

When we all feel so strongly about this election, everything we hear and read is going to be colored by our already strong feelings one way or the other.

Well I for one don't pounce on everything Obama does-- I might agree with him on a few things :eek . I take everything one point at a time.

[mama_pajama]

I didn't really care when McCain left the campaign trail. Either way, I didn't think he or Obama would make much difference. Then I found out about his timeline for rushing to Washington in order to help with negotiations. He was in New York when he made his big announcement, and didn't land in DC until 22 hours later! Wow! Great job rushing to the aide of our nation. Did I mention that the flight from New York to DC takes approximately an hour? I didn't question his motives until then, but his actions certainly didn't seem like those of a man who was sincerely concerned. He talked a big game about how he refused to 'phone it in' when it came to the negotiations, and yet it took him almost a full day to get to his Senate office.

[Charlene]

I didn't really care when McCain left the campaign trail. Either way, I didn't think he or Obama would make much difference. Then I found out about his timeline for rushing to Washington in order to help with negotiations. He was in New York when he made his big announcement, and didn't land in DC until 22 hours later! Wow! Great job rushing to the aide of our nation. Did I mention that the flight from New York to DC takes approximately an hour? I didn't question his motives until then, but his actions certainly didn't seem like those of a man who was sincerely concerned. He talked a big game about how he refused to 'phone it in' when it came to the negotiations, and yet it took him almost a full day to get to his Senate office.

Oh no, but the media is being unfair!!!! It's totally reasonable to compare McCain's (failed) attempt at making himself seem like he cares more about his "job" and Obama's going to the side of his ailing grandmother. It's totally. the. same. thing. /sarcasm.

I think this whole thing is grasping at straws and trying, once again, to blame the media for their "slanting" portrayal of McCain vs. Obama. Nevermind that McCain brought the negative media attention upon himself by HIS ACTIONS.

[txmusicmom]

Donna, I am at a loss to see where this even warrants a comparison between the good of Obama or bad of MCain (to paraphrase you)?

Did McCain leave the campaign trail to visit a sick or ailing friend or family member???

See that's it- it's GOOD that Obama is visiting his grandmother- ( I agree!!!)

But bad- that McCain made the decision to be involved in the financial crisis issue.l

Who decides what a GOOD reason is? That is often very subjective-I'm just asking to give each the benefit of the doubt-

What if it was reversed- and Obama had gone to Washington- he would have been considered a LEADER........and if McCain visited a sick relative....well maybe tolerated--but definitely not supported.

There is a story of the woodcutter-

He has a son.......and he gets a horse- all the townpeople say- Oh that's good , you got a horse-- The woodcutter says- whether good or bad, I do not know- I just have a horse-- Then the son fell off the horse and broke his leg-- the townspeople said- Oh that's BAD your son broke his leg- Again he replied- whether good or bad, I do not know-- My son broke his leg.

Well they had a war- all the young men went off to war- The townspeople said- Oh that's good that your son's leg is broke - he doesn't have to go to war..........AND SO ON the story goes

The moral-- things are what they are-- often we see them as good or bad......but often there is a GOOD side and a BAD side to each situation.

They each make their decisions as they see them.

[strangejen]

But bad- that McCain made the decision to be involved in the financial crisis issue

but it's been said again and again that McCain's presence WAS NOT NEEDED. He wasn't on the committee, they didn't need his INPUT, they just needed his yes or no vote. he made it seem like he was SOOO important to the process, and he just wasn't.

[Charlene]

But bad- that McCain made the decision to be involved in the financial crisis issue.


txmusicmom, I'd really like your response to the following facts, which explains why people thought what McCain did was "bad" or, rather, a publicity stunt.

- McCain was in New York when he made his announcement to suspend his campaing but didn't land in DC until 22 hours later

- McCain's urgent rush to D.C. was waylaid by media appearances

-McCain's campaign was never actually suspended

- members of the Finance Committee specifically stated they didn't want or need McCain's input


Can you not see the difference here? Can you not see why the media is treating these two instances differently?

[Scorpiosue1102]

McCain's whole going back to Washington was handled badly. He's supposed to go on Letterman because he has to rush back to DC. Instead, he's on the air with Katie Couric. After his recent appearance on Letterman I'd say Dave has probably given the most hard hitting interview of all the news people. Even after Katie Couric he didn't rush back to Washington DC. NY to DC is a very quick plane ride.

[snaggletooth75]

I bet if Mccain had to go visit a sick family member everyone would say that hes only going to gain sympathy or that he only doing it for show. Thats the way america is these days. If your more popular then everything is you do is god gift to humanity and when your not so popular everything you do is wrong.

[Heather Manning]

I bet if Mccain had to go visit a sick family member everyone would say that hes only going to gain sympathy or that he only doing it for show. Thats the way america is these days. If your more popular then everything is you do is god gift to humanity and when your not so popular everything you do is wrong.

I don't think everyone would, but I think those who hate McCain with a passion and see Obama able to do no wrong, they would do that. I think there are some people who can see both men as good men who just see things differently who would say anything like that.

[snaggletooth75]

I would hope so:) No matter who I am for if obama has a sick grammie he needs to go be with her, the election will still be here when he gets back.
I don't think everyone would, but I think those who hate McCain with a passion and see Obama able to do no wrong, they would do that. I think there are some people who can see both men as good men who just see things differently who would say anything like that.

[Charlene]

I don't think everyone would, but I think those who hate McCain with a passion and see Obama able to do no wrong, they would do that. I think there are some people who can see both men as good men who just see things differently who would say anything like that.

If McCain was going to see a sick family member, I would not be at all negative about it.


I'm just failing to see how the two scenarios compare...they don't.

[Scorpiosue1102]

I bet if Mccain had to go visit a sick family member everyone would say that hes only going to gain sympathy or that he only doing it for show. Thats the way america is these days. If your more popular then everything is you do is god gift to humanity and when your not so popular everything you do is wrong.


I wouldn't and if someone said something "he's doing it for sympathy" that I would have no problem telling them that they are completely wrong AND unfeeling.

Joe Biden also left the campaign when his mother-in-law was gravely ill and then passed away. I would have more of a problem with a candidate if they had a gravely ill relative and they decided to stay on the campaign. To me, that would really show the type of character that person possessed.

[mama_pajama]

I bet if Mccain had to go visit a sick family member everyone would say that hes only going to gain sympathy or that he only doing it for show. Thats the way america is these days. If your more popular then everything is you do is god gift to humanity and when your not so popular everything you do is wrong.

That's speculation. We were discussing two very real situations, not hypothesizing about what might happen if...

In my post I said that I didn't care when McCain left the campaign trail until it became known that he didn't exactly get to DC in a timely fashion. Hardly an example of an Obama supporter saying that everything McCain does is wrong.

[Heather Manning]

Joe Biden also left the campaign when his mother-in-law was gravely ill and then passed away. I would have more of a problem with a candidate if they had a gravely ill relative and they decided to stay on the campaign. To me, that would really show the type of character that person possessed.

I agree with you here Sue.

In my opinion, with leaving for the financial meltdown, they are both senators paid to do a specific job first. I think they both should have been there. And I think McCain should have gone straight since that is what he said he was doing. See, I can say something that I feel McCain should have done differently. :lol

[maggie965]

I bet if Mccain had to go visit a sick family member everyone would say that hes only going to gain sympathy or that he only doing it for show. Thats the way america is these days. If your more popular then everything is you do is god gift to humanity and when your not so popular everything you do is wrong.

I really don't think so... I have concerns about both candidates but when it comes to family I think many Americans believe that family should take precedent! If any of the candidates had to leave the trail for an ailing family member I would respect them for doing that.

[DirtyFeetDesigns (heb1976)]

I think it is good he visiting his grandmother but on the flip side did she just get so ill he felt the need to do this? Or has he been neglecting this ailing Grandmother till now & feels really sad he has been?

She was in the hospital for a week or two and was just released.

[DirtyFeetDesigns (heb1976)]

Sigh...........................I said- I have NO problem with him doing so--- I commend him............

But when our country was in one of the worst financial situations...........it wasn't OK for McCain to do his job..........A senator is supposed to be there--- to come up with a solution NOT just to vote........

So the debate was MORE important than the potential meltdown of our financial system?? I realize money and time was invested- I know- I know.

I will have to admit- I come to these boards in good faith..........I try to meet the other side halfway........and understand where you are coming from. I really enjoy trying to understand your point- even if I disagree-

But to yall- it's all or nothing............I'm sorry-- that frustrates me...........

I'm not trying to give ANY bad impression of Obama because of this-actually to me, it's a positive- just would like the same courtesy given to McCain..........

It is not going to happen. I have noticed myself that when someone makes a comment about Obama, everyone flocks to his rescue to defend. It is a wonderful thing to be so for your candidate. But, at the same time ... respect those who feel the same about McCain. That really is not what is happening here. She never attacked Obama for doing what he is doing ... if anything - she was attacking the media for the way they report things. One thing is more important then the other.

Again, I am not for any candidate yet ... so I am not sticking up for McCain or Obama.

[Charlene]

It is not going to happen. I have noticed myself that when someone makes a comment about Obama, everyone flocks to his rescue to defend. It is a wonderful thing to be so for your candidate. But, at the same time ... respect those who feel the same about McCain. That really is not what is happening here. She never attacked Obama for doing what he is doing ... if anything - she was attacking the media for the way they report things. One thing is more important then the other.

Again, I am not for any candidate yet ... so I am not sticking up for McCain or Obama.

And, time and again, I am on this thread stating that comparing the MEDIA reactions of the two incidences is ludicrous.

There are TONS of threads started by McCain supporters attempting to diss Obama. Of course Obama supporters are going to counter that. What else can we do, if not counter the constant attempts at dissing our favored candidate? I assume McCain supporters would do the same were the situation reversed!

[Scorpiosue1102]

It is not going to happen. I have noticed myself that when someone makes a comment about Obama, everyone flocks to his rescue to defend. It is a wonderful thing to be so for your candidate. But, at the same time ... respect those who feel the same about McCain. That really is not what is happening here. She never attacked Obama for doing what he is doing ... if anything - she was attacking the media for the way they report things. One thing is more important then the other.

Again, I am not for any candidate yet ... so I am not sticking up for McCain or Obama.


Yes, I'm going to defend my candidate when I don't believe something is correct or if it's not a fair respresentation. For example, the whole Ayers thing. I mentioned McCain's affiliation with G. Gordon Liddy and it was a thread killer. I feel like I have to defend why I even support Obama. My question is why is it that McCain feels he has to use Ayers, ACORN, "pro-America", palling with terrorists to win and why Obama has not mentioned G. Gordon Liddy, Lincoln Strategy/Nathan Sproul, Alaskan Independence Party or Charles Keating?

My cousin worked for John McCain last year. He'd tell us stories about how he'd get to ride with the senator and they'd joke about the Arizona Cardinals stinking, running to get the senator his razors because he forgot them and how human and decent he was. I don't see this same man. You want to attack Obama on his record fine. I just want the John McCain who in 2000 was angry with the people that drug him through the mud about his daughter and more. Instead, this McCain has now employed many of those people.

I also ask if we need a timeline of when his grandmother broke her hip, when she left her hospital room and what Senator Obama's and her calls contained. It is NONE of our business as to what happened between his grandmother and himself. We don't know if she said, "Barry (I'm with it, I know lol) stay on the campaign trail." Why is this wrong???

[Tiffikat]

McCain supporters have been supporting McCain in pretty much any thread that could possibly be casting him in a negative light and the positive threads as well. Why would anyone think Obama supporters would do any less? BOTH sides are defending their chosen candidate.

Personally I feel if McCain had a sick relative I would think about it the exact same way I thought about Obama stepping away to be with his grandmother.

Had Obama have pulled the stunt that I feel McCain pulled with the Bailout Bill when as others had stated he did not rush to DC nor was he needed/wanted there, I would have been upset and annoyed with Obama as well. I would have felt that perhaps I needed to take a second look at my candidate to see what was going on.

To me as many others have said the two simply have no comparison.

[NellieRose]

It is not going to happen. I have noticed myself that when someone makes a comment about Obama, everyone flocks to his rescue to defend. It is a wonderful thing to be so for your candidate. But, at the same time ... respect those who feel the same about McCain. That really is not what is happening here.

Heather, do you not think it a fair assessment to say that the Obama people "flock" to defend him because they are dispelling lies, rumor or innuendo? I would expect the same of the McCain supporters.....

Actually, I would expect the same of the Obama supporters to come to the defense of lies, rumors and innuendo regarding Sen. McCain. We are just trying to keep the story straight, that's all.

[txmusicmom]

I'm just failing to see how the two scenarios compare...they don't.

In your opinion ! ;)

[Charlene]

In your opinion ! ;)

Okay, if want to start a thread that is complete BS and then continuously ignore a bunch of FACTS and questions posed to you on this thread, and then wink and say it's "in my opinion"...whatever, words don't describe the complete frustration Obama supporters feel when we ask for FACTS to back up disparaging statements and get THIS kind of response. UGHHHHHHH.

If it's only my opinion then I dare you to PROVE how the two scenarios relate.

[txmusicmom]

Okay, if want to start a thread that is complete BS and then continuously ignore a bunch of FACTS and questions posed to you on this thread, and then wink and say it's "in my opinion"...whatever, words don't describe the complete frustration Obama supporters feel when we ask for FACTS to back up disparaging statements and get THIS kind of response. UGHHHHHHH.

If it's only my opinion then I dare you to PROVE how the two scenarios relate.

Charlene,

Excuse me, I've been working today- ;) - The only point I was making
is the one I originally said. In your opinion they are different.......
In mine, they are not ( yes they are doing it for different reasons)

My point is the REACTION to their decision- period- dot. That is what this thread is about.

As one posted said- it seems as if anything Obama does is grand.
but pounce on McCain........

I'm done......let's have a civil discussion.

[Charlene]

Charlene,

Excuse me, I've been working today- ;) - The only point I was making
is the one I originally said. In your opinion they are different.......
In mine, they are not ( yes they are doing it for different reasons)

My point is the REACTION to their decision- period- dot. That is what this thread is about.

As one posted said- it seems as if anything Obama does is grand.
but pounce on McCain........

I'm done......let's have a civil discussion.

I'm am trying very much but finding it hard to remain respectful because you continue to ignore several posters on this thread. The scenarios presented by you and other McCain supporters to show that the media is biased are not even remotely close to being comparable!! If you can find two comparable scenarios then we can have continue this discussion. Obviously your mind is made up and in my OPINION you are purposefully ignoring fact for your own preference. I can admit when Obama does wrong without blaming the media. Can you do the same with McCain?

And, I certainly don't see the sentiment here that Obama is grand. Why, look at how many threads YOU have started trying to prove otherwise! ;)

[NellieRose]

I also ask if we need a timeline of when his grandmother broke her hip, when she left her hospital room and what Senator Obama's and her calls contained. It is NONE of our business as to what happened between his grandmother and himself. We don't know if she said, "Barry (I'm with it, I know lol) stay on the campaign trail." Why is this wrong???

Get the NSA on the horn, I am sure they know what went down in those calls! LOL

Would it be a stretch for any of us to think that if any of us were in the midst of campaigning to be the POTUS that our mothers or grandmothers wouldn't say something to the effect of "I am fine and just carry on with what you are doing?" :shrug

PS - I refer to him as Barry when having discussions with my friends! :D

[Gina.Maria]

Well, since we (Obama supporters) haven't felt the need to start multitudes of threads discrediting McCain (not that we couldn't - there's just so much material to support that), you have to grant that discrediting unsavory reports against our candidate is to be expected.


Here's what I think about the two situations. By claiming to "suspend" his campaign, McCain attempted to flout the rules of equal media time and gain an advantage in coverage. The media gave him plenty of opportunity to repeat his intention to suspend campaign activities (which he did not) in order to "rush" to Washington to attend to this crisis. He was not needed, he was specifically not wanted and he had no input of any possible value to contribute. It was a stunt and it worked in his favor for his supporters and some Republicans on the fence. I don't think it helped him with Democrats or Undecideds. Additionally, he brought the wrath down on himself when he stood up his long-time friend, Letterman. It only highlighted the absurdity of his stunt.

Obama is not suspending his campaign (though, in reality, he is unlikely to actively campaign while with his grandmother) and will not gain anything but his due for treating his grandmother with dignity, respect and love.

So, if the complaint is how the media reacted, I'd have to say that their reactions are pretty much like our own, like any rational person's - skeptical about McCain's motives and sympathetic to Obama's concern.

[DirtyFeetDesigns (heb1976)]

Heather, do you not think it a fair assessment to say that the Obama people "flock" to defend him because they are dispelling lies, rumor or innuendo? I would expect the same of the McCain supporters.....

Actually, I would expect the same of the Obama supporters to come to the defense of lies, rumors and innuendo regarding Sen. McCain. We are just trying to keep the story straight, that's all.

Oh I get that ... I do. It is the way you represent it tho. Like I said ... I understand you feel passionately about your candidate ... I envy you because I have no idea how I am voting. You need to take into consideration - whether you find the subject ludicrous, ridiculous, asinine (sp?) - it bothers someone and they are voicing that. Respect that. Do not make them feel like they are stupid or dumb for bringing it up. Yes, it does sometimes come off that way. *If* I feel that the Ayers thing is a big deal to me (general me not personal me) ... do not make me feel like a moron because of it.

[DirtyFeetDesigns (heb1976)]

So, if the complaint is how the media reacted, I'd have to say that their reactions are pretty much like our own, like any rational person's - skeptical about McCain's motives and sympathetic to Obama's concern.

I think that is a very fair assessment. Why did he wait until today (Thurs.) to go see her tho. The way the media made it sound, she was gravely ill. Just curious.

[Haley64]

Once again -

I reiterate -- THERE IS NOTHING WRONG -- I do wish Obama and his grandmother all the best..........

It seems you tend to always see the good in Obama- ( which I totally agree in this)
but always expect the worst in McCain......you seem to be suspect of his inner thoughts and reasonings....
You can have an opinion---but it might be right/ and it might be wrong.....but it seems you never give him the benefit of the doubt.

This is NOT about him going to see his grandmother- good grief-

It's about the media and public perception........

IMHO I feel it is because Senator McCain has brought on and continues to bring on so much of this himself along with his advisor's.
And again I feel bad bringing up the hurricane victims that Senator McCain also went to instead of staying at the RNC in Minneapolis! So Senator McCain basically has done this twice already in his campaigning.
Senator McCain needs to look, act and be in control of the direction Senator McCain is heading and to me it seems like Senator McCain is all over the place struggling for a finger hold.
There are so many things that Senator McCain brings up constantly that are not earth moving but makes for good reality TV!
Acorn, Joe the plumber, Aryes (sp), over $150,000 spent and now he is attacking Mr. President Bush a fellow republican! When does it stop for Senator McCain?
Don't shoot us, tell Senator McCain to stop wandering all over the place and take a stance and stick to it (on issues that matter)....joe the plumber is a washed-up topic!

Edited: Please if anyone has any good/bad truthful video's on Senator Barack Obama or his wife, please show me as I like to see both sides also. Matter of fact I feel a little disappointed that SNL doesn't do a skit on Senator Barack Obama.

[Haley64]

Well I for one don't pounce on everything Obama does-- I might agree with him on a few things :eek . I take everything one point at a time.

Could you please link me up to a few sites and articles? :blush I am being totally honest and sincere here.,...

[DirtyFeetDesigns (heb1976)]

Matter of fact I feel a little disappointed that SNL doesn't do a skit on Senator Barack Obama.

I was thinking that too after someone posted the link about Bush, Palin & McCain on SNL.

[NellieRose]

I was thinking that too after someone posted the link about Bush, Palin & McCain on SNL.

It's probably difficult to come up with satire for Barack because he has to play it so safe day in and day out...he can not afford to make any weird gestures or faces......

Now, I could see them doing a skit on the Town Hall style election...there has been fun poked that Barack looked like he was on the cover of a 1970's soul album as he sat on the little stool all smooth and cool looking....could totally see them playing him up from that angle. ;)

[Haley64]

*If* I feel that the Ayers thing is a big deal to me (general me not personal me) ... do not make me feel like a moron because of it.

The difference here is if you "not you personally but any person" feels that any of the numerous topics are a big deal or an area of concern to your vote and well-being. Why not go read up on it and get all the facts straight first before coming here making a broad reaching statement that continues to reflect mis-truths about a topic?

For instance Ayers, if a person continues in ignorance, to call him a terrorist. I hope pretty soon the man starts to sue people for slander!
Was he part of a terrorist party at one time when he was young and dumb, yes and since then has become University Professor! I am not going to repeat everything I have read but at least I read it and understand it. :lol

If you come here trying to insinuate that a BC has not been shown for Senator Barack Obama yet and try to discredit his citizenship in these forums. Do a little research, heck even a search of these forums would have given you the link to the BC page. How do I know? Because I asked if anyone knew if he had shown it yet and because I had read about in another article I was reading. I was respectfully pointed in the right direction so I could read all about it. Thankfully my googling talents are getting better! :yahoo

I didn't know a lot about either of these two before this all started by as you can tell by my posts in these threads I am following this election year very closing and reading into the wee hours of the night.

We just ask that when we also ask a question back that it is also answered respectfully. If we are asking point blank questions how hard is it to answer since someone started the post to being with so...1) they really don't want to have a discussion 2) they are just trying to stir the pot 3) they really don't want to hear the responses 4) if they really don't get it and then get upset by the responses, maybe they need to leave the Political forums 5) you need to get a little tougher skinned when entering into such a emotional discussions.

Nothing is meant as a personal attack to anyone here by me, I always type with a smile on my face and I, like you am just trying my best to make the most informed voting decision come election day.
I try to do this by not making my decision based on theories, lies or mis-truths coming from either side. I am not basing my vote on who is not being treated fairly by the media!
There is always going to be a winner and a loser and someone needs to admit defeat in the end, but expecting fairness while the game is being played isn't going to happen in politics so people need to stop trying to make it a even playing field!

whewww thanks for reading this far....

[Haley64]

I was thinking that too after someone posted the link about Bush, Palin & McCain on SNL.

I honestly think that would be only fair! LOL :lol Problem is they probably don't have anything funny to joke about with Senator Barack Obama.

Do you all like how politically correct I am being with the candidate's names? :wub It's not easy I tell you!

[Gina.Maria]

I think that is a very fair assessment. Why did he wait until today (Thurs.) to go see her tho. The way the media made it sound, she was gravely ill. Just curious.

Why don't you call him up and ask him? I'm sure he's not too busy to take your call. :p

The difference here is if you "not you personally but any person" feels that any of the numerous topics are a big deal or an area of concern to your vote and well-being. Why not go read up on it and get all the facts straight first before coming here making a broad reaching statement that continues to reflect mis-truths about a topic?
::snip::

I have to say I agree with this statement. I know that I have tried very hard to back up every statement with research and every opinion I've stated has been as well-thought-out and supported by facts as possible. I've noticed the same of most of my compatriots. These days, it's pretty easy to do a Google search and find 2-3 links for supporting or refuting a statement.

[Heather Manning]

If you come here trying to insinuate that a BC has not been shown for Senator Barack Obama yet and try to discredit his citizenship in these forums. Do a little research, heck even a search of these forums would have given you the link to the BC page. How do I know? Because I asked if anyone knew if he had shown it yet and because I had read about in another article I was reading. I was respectfully pointed in the right direction so I could read all about it. Thankfully my googling talents are getting better! :yahoo


Can I just say you guys would be so proud of me. My mom forwarded me an email about Barack not being from the US - no BC, etc. I emailed her back and said, you know as much as I hate to support Obama, I've got to go with him on this one. :lol Sent her the link to get the info. Can't have my mama be responsible for false information. We're still voting for McCain, but at least she knows that one is something she doesn't want to forward to 1000 people cuz it isn't true.

[Chreamps]

Can I just say you guys would be so proud of me. My mom forwarded me an email about Barack not being from the US - no BC, etc. I emailed her back and said, you know as much as I hate to support Obama, I've got to go with him on this one. :lol Sent her the link to get the info. Can't have my mama be responsible for false information. We're still voting for McCain, but at least she knows that one is something she doesn't want to forward to 1000 people cuz it isn't true.

:agree

[Microferk ~ Miki Ferkul]

Can I just say you guys would be so proud of me. My mom forwarded me an email about Barack not being from the US - no BC, etc. I emailed her back and said, you know as much as I hate to support Obama, I've got to go with him on this one. :lol Sent her the link to get the info. Can't have my mama be responsible for false information. We're still voting for McCain, but at least she knows that one is something she doesn't want to forward to 1000 people cuz it isn't true.

:clap Now that takes integrity Heather!

[Gina.Maria]

Thank you, Heather. I appreciate that you are dedicated to the truth.

[HLWalter725]

Can I just say you guys would be so proud of me. My mom forwarded me an email about Barack not being from the US - no BC, etc. I emailed her back and said, you know as much as I hate to support Obama, I've got to go with him on this one. :lol Sent her the link to get the info. Can't have my mama be responsible for false information. We're still voting for McCain, but at least she knows that one is something she doesn't want to forward to 1000 people cuz it isn't true.

Totally respect this, Heather, and try my best to do the same as well.

I always go to snopes or some other fact checking place before I accept a chain e-mail as real. Then I send an e-mail back to the friend who sent it to me pointing them to that information. . . No, people aren't actually planting HIV infected needles into the big ball pits in Chuck E Cheese; No, that boy is not actually collecting cards in the hospital; no, Bill Gates will not send you $10 for every e-mail you send this to,...etc. LOL. It shocks me how quickly some will send something forward, especially when the root of the message is a fear appeal.

[Chreamps]

I always go to snopes or some other fact checking place before I accept a chain e-mail as real. Then I send an e-mail back to the friend who sent it to me pointing them to that information. . . No, people aren't actually planting HIV infected needles into the big ball pits in Chuck E Cheese; No, that boy is not actually collecting cards in the hospital; no, Bill Gates will not send you $10 for every e-mail you send this to,...etc. LOL. It shocks me how quickly some will send something forward, especially when the root of the message is a fear appeal.

Heather, I do the same thing (LOL), one email was sent to me saying Snopes confirmed it and no one had bothered to double check Snopes to find out it wasn't true. Never got the one about Chuck E Cheese.

My husband told me that he thought a lot of those that were sent out had viruses on them and that's how the viruses are spread. Don't know about that one, but a lot of times I will just delete the junk emails without looking at them.