I think it will be best if President Bush is given the opportunity to explain why the bail out is needed and what his plan action is to us tonight.

Then we should let the debate focus on the issues involved in how each candidate thinks the need for a bail out developed and why they agree or disagree with specifics in the President's proposal.

The rush they are giving this is panick behavior by Wall Street and most of America really wont feel any impact. If we wait a whole week, we just might learn letting Wall Street figure out the true value of these assets isn't that bad after all.

Just one more week of free market capitalism please.

Sent by Christopher M. Brown | 6:13 PM ET | 09-24-2008

AT less than 2 months from the election, at a time of crisis, more than ever, we need to hear from the two candidates, and the debates should not be postponed. If they are read to be presidents they should be ready to multitask. At any rate with teleconferencing, blackberrys and instant communications, there is no justification to "get back to Washington". This appears to be a ploy by a candidate that is not ready to the task or just wants to get political points.

Sent by Carlo | 6:15 PM ET | 09-24-2008

Senator Obama stated that the President of the USA must be able to deal with more than one issue. Postponing debate to go to Washington is just a lousy excuse.

Once again, Senator Obama is right. It is no doubt that he is more qualified to be the President of the USA.

Sent by Kim | 6:21 PM ET | 09-24-2008

This deal is going on at LUDICROUS speed, the same chicken little "The Sky is Falling" tactics that got us into the Iraq disaster. How soon after the $700 billion bail out of the execs will we be expected to 'surge' more money into the pockets of a few, while the rest of us go broke, can't retire, lose Soc. Sec., student loans, health care, and infrastructure, etc. These two guys are predicting disaster by Monday- the same guys who predicted a windfall- the stock market is a gambler's game, I DON'T wish to gamble America's future on this. If anything should be postponed, it is the transfer of supreme power and dollars to the Treasury.

Sent by Anne Sweeney | 6:40 PM ET | 09-24-2008

Carlo you seem to have forgotten that Mc Cain doesn't know how to use a blackberry or email. He probably doesn't even know wha tthe term multitasking means.

Sent by Aaron | 6:46 PM ET | 09-24-2008

The American people have made special plans and are leaving jobs early (yes, some of us work later than 9pm) to watch this debate. I am extremely disappointed in the Mccain camp and and pleased to hear that the debate commission plans to continue preparing for the debate.

Sent by Casey | 6:47 PM ET | 09-24-2008

I think this another McCain's low ball. After discussions to issue a joint statement; McCain goes out to show how he puts "Country First" or Himself first. A sick way to earn votes. A man word is no longer his bond.

Sent by Chris O | 6:47 PM ET | 09-24-2008

More gamesmanship from the McCain campaign. We need to hear from these two candidates- the nation is waiting and the timing is urgent.

McCain played his "injury time-out" card during the Republican convention. How much more can he try and get away with? This certainly isn't politics as usual.

Sent by Curt Burich | 6:52 PM ET | 09-24-2008

Bravo to Obama for being so diplomatic about this 'stunt' by Mr McCain. All of us who support Obama have been anxious for the debates because we know that McCain's campaign is going to have to face the music regarding the claims they've made during this campaign. I'm so tired of the Republicans ignoring the needs and wishes of the public to promote their own agendas.

Sent by Kelli | 6:54 PM ET | 09-24-2008

It's apparent that this is a desperate response to falling polls and the most recent scandal involving McCain's campaign manager.

Sent by Jon | 6:55 PM ET | 09-24-2008

I agree with Obama. If McCain can't deal with one vote and other tasks as well, what the heck is he going to do when more than one problem occurs at a time while president? I think he's just old and tired and needs a nap. All this campaigning is making him sleepy.

Sent by Robert Egland | 7:01 PM ET | 09-24-2008

The debate should go on more than ever. John McCain is playing politics and trying to take advantage of this situation, also because he has fear on his own been part of this disastrous adminitration. In the end of the day this may cost his chance to win the presidency. Wall Street should not get this money unconditionally... it probably should get any.

Sent by Marcelo Goncalves | 7:07 PM ET | 09-24-2008

What is next? The election should be postponed too until next year! You see why we need President Obama! Not scared! Able to multi-task during crises, focused, presidential, and technologically advanced. Today you can do anything from anywhere! Like he said if they need to be at 6 pm for vote thanks to their big Air Plane they will be in Capital Hill in a matter of hours! So I feel sorry for senator McCain to think he can appear more caring for the economy over night

Sent by Abby | 7:09 PM ET | 09-24-2008

I think this is the best place to ask.

Does everyone really listen to the polling that's done on this campaign?

Personally, I believe Obama is going to run over McCain, simply due to the young voter turn-out.

Sent by Joe | 7:11 PM ET | 09-24-2008

Obama played "piously coy" when reporters were trying to goad him into making an anti-McCain comment?? Spoken like a reporter! Perhaps he was attempting restraint, or trying to stay on track instead of sliding into negative campaigning. Wouldn't that be a GOOD thing?

Sent by Connie | 7:12 PM ET | 09-24-2008

I'm really wondering what they will cook up to keep Palin out of the VP debate. They will go to great lengths to pull that off.

Sent by Bret | 7:16 PM ET | 09-24-2008

I'm incredulous. What's next, postponing the election...?

Sent by Elizabeth | 7:17 PM ET | 09-24-2008

All four debates have been written in bold on my calendar for a reason! I have been waiting to hear this first debate for some time now, and so have many friends and coworkers of mine. This is a date with the American people, and McCain want's to break his end of the deal and cancel it. He is not getting a second date with me!

Sent by joan | 7:18 PM ET | 09-24-2008

Let the debates begin! This is when I want to hear from my future leader.

Sent by Jim | 7:20 PM ET | 09-24-2008

Roll your sleeves up or "have a dialogue?" Of course its politics but geeze, sometimes you have to get your hands dirty. I'll wait until November 3rd for the debate - if somebody, ANYBODY, is working to make this country better.

Sent by Yon Fu | 7:23 PM ET | 09-24-2008

-- CUT McCAIN A BREAK !!! ---

Everyone knows he's riding the coat-tails of Sarah to try and get elected... and she won't be on the stage with McCain Friday. He has to go it alone one-on-one with Obama... of course he wants to delay, he's scared that someone might ask a question and expect a REAL answer... so cut him a break!!!

Sent by michael king | 7:24 PM ET | 09-24-2008

This is outragious! this is such a desperate response from the Republicans!! The Republicans are making fools out of every American! Do they really think that we think John McCain is really thinking about us!!! The person who admitted that he doesn't know much about economics, he's going to help? Give us a break.
Republicans, we are not that stupid!!

Sent by Disgusted Voter | 7:28 PM ET | 09-24-2008

These debates are not entertainment. The American people have been waiting weeks for the chance to hear these two candidates think on their feet and address important issues, including our failing economy. Thank you Barack Obama for taking the high road.

Sent by Amita in Florida | 7:29 PM ET | 09-24-2008

We need a real leader not a typical politician to solve the problems our country faces.

Vote for McCain/Palin

Sent by Mark S. | 7:31 PM ET | 09-24-2008

Go Obama! You are handling yourself with respect and integrity. Let the debate be on. Americans want to hear from these two candidates!

I agree with McCain that McCain and Obama should be part of the bailout discussions. I agree that both he and Obama should go to D.C. if they so desire.

I strongly disagree that the debate should be canceled/postponed. I think McCain is scared to debate.

Sent by lajollajule | 7:33 PM ET | 09-24-2008

I think both men should FIRST, be a representative of the voters in their home states,that put them in office.
As Presidential candidates, their constituants have lost a voice in Washington, at the worst time. I think it is vital for every member of Congress to stop playing politics, and start working for their pay.

Sent by patricia | 7:39 PM ET | 09-24-2008

who wants lo listed promises about foreing policy when stock markets all over the world are waiting our Congress to decide what are they going to do? And neither of Obama or McCain are yet President but Senators and they should be serving their people doing their jobs!!!!!!

Sent by Jacinta | 7:43 PM ET | 09-24-2008

Hate to sound like a parrot to the Obama campaign, but I also agree that McCain's presence (and presumably Obama's too, if McCain had his way) in the Capitol Building would only slow this thing down. We have 98 Senators, Representatives, Treasury and Executive representatives and 'experts' already covering all the bases, so unless McCain has an idea that no one has mentioned yet, then his presence isn't going to help. Just to point out the obvious, if McCain does have such an idea, he could probably make a phone call (unless his plan requires hand signals.)

Sent by Clyde | 7:51 PM ET | 09-24-2008

This is all a political ploy by the McCain Campaign-I can just see the tv adds now claiming that Obama does not care about the economy. This is yet just another attempt to win over the uninformed voter. It seems that when ever the poll numbers are down, McCain needs to heat things up-What will this mean if he becomes President??? Thank you Obama for not climbing into McCain's hole.

Sent by jen | 7:53 PM ET | 09-24-2008

Political stunt or not, I agree that the debate should be postponed until a decision has been made about the bail-out. That way the candidates won't waste time speculating about the possible outcomes. They can focus on the facts. I don't understand why Obama is so eager to have the debate now. The issues will be pretty much the same next week, right?

Sent by Barbara Owens | 7:59 PM ET | 09-24-2008

I have two points to make.

1. Congress is finally doing what Congress should be doing--debating, compromising and working toward a common goal from two different ends. If they weren't doing that, there might be a need for someone to step in and start knocking heads together.

2. McCain is still thinking like a senator; Obama is thinking like a president. A senator is part of the negotiation; a president guides the negotiation.

Sent by Blair Leatherwood | 8:21 PM ET | 09-24-2008

I have been especially looking forward to a debate between McCain and Obama because Obama is such a good orator, and McCain is prone to struggling with his temper. Definitely provocative ingredients for a debate! Maybe McCain knows this, and this is his way to exit stage left....

Sent by Monika | 8:45 PM ET | 09-24-2008

I think Obama is taking a head on position and I hope he will consider that the companies that are lining up for this bailout have their headquarters offshore. They contribute NOTHING to the US tax system. I would think that any bailout would have the caveat requiring the companies move their headquarters into the US and they must pay their fair share of taxes! With the executives, and their huge salaries getting a capital gains tax break, the folks that are at the heart of the problem want to get off smelling like roses on the back of the US taxpayers. Help, Obama!

Thank you for your time!

Cathy Coulson-Keegan

Sent by Cathy | 8:45 PM ET | 09-24-2008

Has McCain forgotten that this financial crisis is not "new" news anymore? Why did he have to wait three days before the debate to announce his patriotism? Whenever a politician talks about "setting politics aside", they always play politics. Enough is enough!

Sent by Lee | 8:47 PM ET | 09-24-2008

If suspending the campaigns includes suspending attack ads, I might be able to go for it.
Seriously though, I think Obama has the right perspective on the debate. These senators should be involved in the process of the bill, but that shouldn't deprive voters of the chance to see them debate (hopefully substantively).

Sent by Jonathan | 8:53 PM ET | 09-24-2008

Did you hear that McCain wants to push the Presidential Debates to next Thursday, in place of the VP debates? I guess Palin needs some more time to prepare, and this is all a huge stunt to allow her to try and not look like an idiot. Good luck...

Sent by Rachel | 9:01 PM ET | 09-24-2008

Hopefully the Republicans won't cancel the VP debates, declaring that Palin is sick or lost her notes, or an Alaskan Husky ate them!
I had to curse in my car, when I heard that Palin met with world leaders in NY, as if spending a couple of minutes meeting with them gives her some sort of credentials on Foreign Affairs. WHAT?!
The Republicans desperation is to the point of being palpable, and proving once again that they will do 'anything' to try and win.
I say no to you McSAME!

WE NEED YOU O8AMA!

Sent by Michael | 9:09 PM ET | 09-24-2008

No delay to debate!

And no rush to accept any Bush-proposed bailout. We didn't get into this overnight, and we won't get out overnight. I support the recommendations of Sen. Bernie Sanders. Take a look--if you do too, sign his petition. http://sanders.senate.gov/petitions/?petition=Financial_Crisis_1

Sent by Sara | 9:17 PM ET | 09-24-2008

John McCain is once again putting himself first in this latest act of one-upmanship....but this time, the consequences could be grave. In an environment of doubt and plummeting market confidence, the last thing congress needs is a partisan slant on this decision process...John McCain must know that inserting himself in this process will not help matters, but worse, he could mess things up ROYALLY. I mean, trying to look presidential is fine when you are campaigning...but with the stakes so high on this bailout plan, John McCain's actions are putting the country at VERY serious risk.

Sent by AndyT | 9:18 PM ET | 09-24-2008

it just keeps getting worse!!!! is mccain still in gradeschool or what?????

Sent by Chrystal | 9:27 PM ET | 09-24-2008

John McCain how dare you try to pull the wool over are eye again-"NO"should I say "MY"eyes,some of us have fallen for your devilment!

Sent by Carole Mitchell | 9:34 PM ET | 09-24-2008

How about switching debate dates and let Biden and Palin debate Friday night. I'm sure Palin is ready now that she has spent 28 seconds with the president of Afghanistan and had her picture taken.

Sent by Bryan | 9:45 PM ET | 09-24-2008

I say put the bailout on hold and make that, along with the debacle in iraq, the cornerstones of the debates and eventually the first tasks our new president will have to tackle. Enough of the attack ads and partisan bickering, it's time for these two men get in front of the people. That also goes for Biden and Palin. November could not come to soon. I believe once we begin to hear the positions and lack of, it will be clear that McCain and Palin will only dig our hole deeper. We are at the tipping point, and I have hope and confidence that the American people will make the right choice. In the end the answer to problem is up to us. Us, people, us, we have to stand together in order to get this country back on track. Demand the debates, demand a solution, demand that your voice be heard.

Sent by Daniel N. King | 9:52 PM ET | 09-24-2008

I APPLAUD McKCain's attention to his senatorial responsibility at this time. After all, his is first and foremost a senator at this time and as an elected member of our national legislature, he realizes that he must be focusing his immediate attention to helping to determine a plan for the current economic crisis.

Sent by Michael | 9:54 PM ET | 09-24-2008

Good for McCain. At least he puts the country before his personal ambition. This just sounds like Obama doesn't want to be in the Senate and have to actually have to vote on it. Voting has never been his strong point.

Sent by Sue | 10:07 PM ET | 09-24-2008

Sen Obama has a very good point. And that is the country needs to have some sense of how the next president will deal with a major part of the Bush legacy. There will be ample individuals in Washington over the next week trying to make the Bush Bailout look pretty but I want to know how the next president might deal with a full scale recession if not depression. Bring on the debate.

Sent by Mapperjohn | 10:15 PM ET | 09-24-2008

How is mccain ot being self-serving with this new trick?
In your effort to be "two sided" you have bent over backward, NPR, and fallen for this dirty trick.

if you reporter looked at the time line, it would show a different story.

Sent by john | 10:38 PM ET | 09-24-2008

We need this debate to be on economic policy. Deregulation and easy money serves to redistribute wealth in the country by privatizing profits for the privileged few and socializing the risk through excessive taxation of the masses (all under the threat of economic disaster). Is this fiscal conservatism? At least the upfront "Tax and Spend" policies bring benefit to the country as a whole by improving civilization (e.g., supporting infrastructure, education, etc.)for this generation and the next. In contrast the last minute coercion taxation polices of the current administration only support improving the infrastructure (mansions, pools, yachts) for the few and handicap generations of Americans to come with a debt so large it threatens national bankruptcy. So let's hear the debate and find out who we can trust with our money and what exactly will be the return on this investment for our generation and the next.

Sent by John P. Hogan | 10:43 PM ET | 09-24-2008

This is a false choice that only somone putting party before country would fall for.
These senators can be in washington when needed AND debate. Anything else would be, unstatesmanlike.

Those who keep griping that Obama does not love america are just hatemongers and dividers.
I thought we were going to see an end to that garbage...

Sent by sue | 10:44 PM ET | 09-24-2008

I applaud Obama to taking the high road here. The debates are by no means a lower priority. The impact of foreign affairs in a global economy is something every American would want to know about before going to the polls.

It is disgraceful that McCain wants to defer such a critical issue to legislate.

If he cannot multitask, than it is best that he continue to serve the country as a senator and it is better for the country to pick a leader who can deal with multiple complex solutions.

Sent by Niraj | 11:08 PM ET | 09-24-2008

I'm astonished that the McCain campaign even imagines that calling off the debate makes McCain look anything but befuddled and unable to multitask. Suspending his campaign sounds to me like he's giving up. I'm not impressed.

Sent by Maria | 11:14 PM ET | 09-24-2008

Senator McCain has reinforced my believe that he does not have the expertise and stamina to lead this nation. We, the people want to hear and see the candidates debate the issues, especially our economic problems. McCain should stand up and face the nation.

Sent by apeck@austin.rr.com | 11:26 PM ET | 09-24-2008

It was so reassuring to hear a balanced, confident and thoughtful expression regarding the need to go on wtih the debate and inform the people of what each candidate expects to do about the current financial crises. As far as the politics of McCain's declining to debate.... This lack of communication is a hallmark for the Republican party in this campaign. Sarah Palin has yet to actually answer a tough question. Yesterday was 'Picture Day" just like in Elementary school for her. Of course she is staying awasy from Alaska where they are drawing up recall and impeachment papers and having another anti-Palin rally on Saturday.

Sent by Beth Hill Bryant | 11:53 PM ET | 09-24-2008

All you McCain supporters: Please tell us: What is his position on the bailout? Does he support: oversight, equity for taxpayers(stock warrants) bankruptcy judge discretion to amend mortgage terms, limits on executive compensation? If not, why not? If he can't answer these questions, he is not a leader, and you are fools to pretend otherwise.

Sent by Mike Fleissner | 12:09 AM ET | 09-25-2008

... Funny, I was always taught that doing your Job was always more important, than promoting yourself. The way I look at it, Doing what they are doing is equivalent to me taking a paid leave of absense from the school I work at, and not providing for a qualified replacement, while running for School Board Chair or Superintendant.

Except of course that, as a teacher, I probably do more actual work in each work day, mostly by myself, than a senator.

Anyway, I have been supporting Obama throughout most of this race. However, I think he's wrong. The Citizens of the US don't have to hear what their plan for financial recovery is ... We need to see them getting their butts back in the Job they were elected to and paid for by their respective states to do. They should be in Washington working on some laws that are going to help keep our Great nation's finances from Running aground.

Sent by Josue Matos | 12:20 AM ET | 09-25-2008

McCain has business in Washington that takes priority over the debate? Why not send Sarah? She say she's ready.

Sent by Brent Fisher | 12:33 AM ET | 09-25-2008

"2. McCain is still thinking like a senator; Obama is thinking like a president. A senator is part of the negotiation; a president guides the negotiation."

I completely agree with you Blair!! Your comment reminds me of all the great reasons that I support Obama, and I look forward to seeing and hearing him prove that he is the best choice for president. McCain pulling out of the debate?? What a cop out!! I want to hear what you are going to do about a crisis, not just assume that you are going to do the right thing behind closed doors!! This is another "out of nowhere" moment for McCain, and it shows that he can't be trusted as a leader of our already unstable country.

Sent by Young Kentucky Voter | 12:38 AM ET | 09-25-2008

When this country is on the verge of financial collapse, how is it that a debate on foreign policy is what the American people need now more than ever? I'm not interested in foreign policy right now. I'm interested in a solution to this impending disaster. Every member of Congress should be in Washington working on a solution including Obama and McCain. The only reason Obama doesn't want to go back is because then it would look like he's cooperating with McCain and he wont' be able to take credit. I personally don't care who gets credit or which one of their little ego's gets stroked. I want to know that I'm going to have a job and that my 401k isn't going to disappear.

Sent by Chuck | 12:45 AM ET | 09-25-2008

greyghost wrote on 09/24/2008 04:59:45 PM:
Maybe this is why they are trying to cancel the VP debate?

"COURIC: But he's been in Congress for 26 years. He's been chairman of the powerful Commerce Committee. And he has almost always sided with less regulation, not more.

PALIN: He's also known as the maverick, though. Taking shots from his own party, and certainly taking shots from the other party. Trying to get people to understand what he's been talking about -- the need to reform government.

COURIC: I'm just going to ask you one more time, not to belabor the point. Specific examples in his 26 years of pushing for more regulation?

PALIN: I'll try to find you some, and I'll bring them to you."

The dog ate the homework...

Sent by Beth Hill Bryant | 12:52 AM ET | 09-25-2008

I'm incredulous. What's next, postponing the election...?

Sent by Elizabeth | 7:17 PM ET | 09-24-2008
Well Said . I love it.

The McCain Camp should take the same approach on settling matter with the Palin situation in Alaska . Postpone the campaigning and media displays... bring the truth forward.. This is way to early to give us the old politics of the past 8 years with disregard for the intelligence of the American People...Ignoring the same laws we are required to acknowledge , with cockiness by ignoring subpoenas... It could be another long and unfit 4-8 years if we do not act now with wise and responsible choices

Sent by Sire | 1:07 AM ET | 09-25-2008

There's a little too much commentary in this article. I expect better from NPR.

Sent by Mark Winters | 1:29 AM ET | 09-25-2008

Once again Obama is a voice of reason and calm and McCain sounds like he's shooting from the hip. Like Obama says, a president has to be an efficient multi-tasker and he's up to the challenge. How anyone could really consider voting for McCain, who has acted in a most unpresidential manner of late, is beyond comprehension.

Sent by David Vockeroth | 1:29 AM ET | 09-25-2008

Are you gonna just talk? If thats the case at least do it to your congressperson: http://www.house.gov/house/MemberWWW_by_State.shtml#ga

Sent by mark from atlanta | 2:34 AM ET | 09-25-2008

Both Candidates have already said more to me in their congressional voting record than they could ever talk about. I am happy to see that one of the candidates isn't all about TALK. One of the candidates is already out trying to solve the problem- a problem that requires immediate attention and immediate, well- thought action. As for Senator Obama, it sounds like he is willing to put in his two sense and go along with whatever the Treasury decides- Isn't that just like voting "present"?

Sent by Lee | 6:37 AM ET | 09-25-2008

Nothing is there to comment. Lets wait till friday...........

Sent by rethika | 7:36 AM ET | 09-25-2008

This is not acceptable. Why mccain sposponded debate.

Sent by rethi | 7:57 AM ET | 09-25-2008

Of course Obama doesn't feel that he needs to be in Washington to discuss the bailout and hash out compromises in the senate because his opinions are matched by much of the Democratic party in the senate. McCain on the other hand, is one of the few MODERATE voices that we have in our government. McCain actually straddles the fence on some issues of the bailout, like limiting pay to executives; and will be an important person to bring expediency to this process by helping to bring people to a consensus.

Sent by liz | 8:06 AM ET | 09-25-2008

Dear Editor,
John McCain's attempt to duck out of the first debate with Barack Obama shows me two things:
1. McCain's lack of good judgment. Skipping a Presidential debate does nothing to solve Wall Street's financial meltdown.
2. McCain's lack of multi-tasking skills. It seems he can't handle more than one complex matter at once.
Alternatively, McCain is simply unable to competently discuss the issues. Or, perhaps, it's all of the above.

Sent by J.K. Frazier | 8:24 AM ET | 09-25-2008

mmcain is scared of obama tats y he is postponded the debate. my vote is for obama....

Sent by vidhya | 8:29 AM ET | 09-25-2008

Wow, you folks are really not paying attention to the economic crisis or are in complete hypnosis over Obama. A stupid debate over the economy? A stupid debate of millions of jobs? A stupid debate over millions of homes? A stupid debate over the financial turmoil regardless of who's fault it is? It was just last week that the worlds largest economic lifeline's were about to collapse and you all want a debate. Get a clue folks...that job, that credit card, that mortgage, that student loan will disappear if our economy falls to rebound in the imeadiate future. For all you Obama, and let me tell I am no McCain fan, McCain has been wanted to do debate Obama every 2 weeks since they were both nominated...and so this ridicolous idea of McCain not wanting to debate because he is Scared is absoute madness. Get a Grip and get off the Obama Expressway to Happiness....

Sent by Ezz | 9:08 AM ET | 09-25-2008

Hmmm . . . let's see . . . is there really something new about Obama or McCain we might learn from the so-called debates? I don't think so. We got a face full of both of them with the remarkably well crafted back-to-back interviews by Reverend Rick Warren. Face it . . . historically the presidential debates have been a waste of time . . . politicians posturing before their adoring public to make themselves look good. The real issue of where to go with the Wall Street debacle is far more critical. The government's reaction to that event will affect our financial futures, federal tax policy and have strong reverberations around the world. For both Obama and McCain to function in their currently neglected roles as senators far outweighs the need for the media feeding frenzy a debate might provide. And we will learn far more about how each might lead this nation through tough times than we might pick up through a thousand staged debates. McCain has his priorities correct - postpone the debate and act to benefit the nation.

Sent by Ron Coddington | 9:25 AM ET | 09-25-2008

To Ezz, are you referring to McCain and his rigged town meetings? Do you honestly think that he wouldn't plant people in the audience to ask questions about anything but the issues that we face as American people? Do you honestly think that it would have been prudent for Obama to fill up his limited campaign time with travelling back and forth with McCain for several dates on McCain's timetable? The ONLY town hall meetings that I want to see are the debates, which McCain is trying to delay.

Last time I checked, not only are presidents called to multi-task, but with technology and staff members, things can get done in Washington with his help, if it is even needed. Where was McCain's "Country First" attitude when the bottom fell out last week? He didn't suspend his campaign then. Don't you think that the timing of this is a bit suspect?

Lastly, if Congress is not meeting on Friday night, then why can't Cindy fly him to the debate on time? Or better yet, he could suggest the VP debate for Friday night instead. Please...

Sent by B | 9:48 AM ET | 09-25-2008

Americans (or maybe just myself) are not really sure how much influence McCain and Obama will have over the implementation of a bail-out, anyway. Thus, why is it necessary to postpone the debate? After analyzing both candidates' campaign, the most objective perspective would have to say that this decision of McCain's stands instigated by his instability of a sound address. In turn, it appears McCain has strategically formulated a ploy for his lack of preparation; hence, one can consider it pretty crafty of McCain to impose a facade that Obama has minimal concern for the country's economical crisis, and (Obama has) more concern about his presidential (personal) advancements.

Sent by chris | 11:15 AM ET | 09-25-2008

I would prefer that the future president can do BOTH. If a candidate can't multi-task in times of crisis than I don't want him (or her) as president.

Sent by Theres nothing to discuss | 1:44 PM ET | 09-25-2008

OBVIOUSLY - both sides are using this as an opportunity to make the other side look bad. McCain got the jump on Obama by being the first to suggest that this "crisis" is more important than campaigning. So Obama's advisors told him he should make it look like McCain can't multi-task. Bottom line - McCain looks like he's taking the high road, while Obama looks like he's taking the low road by using this to take another jab at McCain.

Sent by Rick | 2:25 PM ET | 09-25-2008