This is the truth about the American election this year, Americans are still racist, and looking for any excuse not to elect a Black man from: He's not experienced to he's a celebrity. Who cares about all that, if you look beyond your shallow borders, you will realize the world wants Obama, why.. well he represents what we want to be, the new Citizen of the world, because he is not like all the other presidents... he is different. Wake up America

Sent by T-Rex | 11:32 AM ET | 09-18-2008

Sadly, I have to agree with T-Rex. Although I don't often hear people come right out and say that they won't consider a black candidate, what they DO say often sounds like thinly-veiled racism.

Sent by Steve | 12:34 PM ET | 09-18-2008

Actually, Real Clear Politics just updated Obama's lead at 1.7 points. But fivethirtyeight.com is correct that it's completely inaccurate to look at national, popular poll numbers since our election doesn't work that way.

We should be focusing on state to state polls, particularly in the battleground states. But if you dig down, you'll find that the state-to-state polls are irregularly conducted and therefore inaccurate. Hopefully, some pollsters will pick up the breadth and pace of state-to-state polling as we enter the final stretch.

Sent by George | 12:38 PM ET | 09-18-2008

It's amazing how few times the corporate owned media had to repeat the lie that McCain has narrowed the lead in the polls. First off, the polls are bogus. (Take a look around you. Do the last hundred people you talked to represent America?) If you look at how the questions are worded, the polls say a lot more about who is conducting them. I'm from Cedar Rapids, IA (where McCain/Palin are speaking right now) and I travel the state and talk to a lot of different folks about politics, and Iowa is predominantly Obama. Let me put it another way, don't believe the hype, Iowa is NOT a battleground state. I wonder how many other states are going through this. The country overwhelmingly supports Obama and a change in course, yet the corporate owned media continue to report that McCain is gaining, that it's going to be a horse race. Why would they want millions of Americans to think that McCain stands a chance? Could it be so they can further deregulate under another Republican administration? (Wow. Right on que, McCain JUST said that he'd appoint a new SEC chairman... deregulation anyone.) I'm not saying that Obama is going to work miracles, theoretically he could be as bad as McCain, but McCain's track record works against him in so much as we know not to trust America to four more years of WTO/IMF style dismantling and "restructuring" of our financial institutions. Our country won't survive (ask Argentina). Our only hope is that Obama is who he says he is. We'd have a better chance of finding out if the corporate media would stop selling it's propaganda and started reporting fact based information.

Sent by Matthew Claypool | 12:59 PM ET | 09-18-2008

How are polls measured? By telephone landlines which may miss the majority of young, newly registered voters (and who may be mostly for Obama) who rely exclusively on cell phones?

Sent by Leslie | 12:59 PM ET | 09-18-2008

In terms of electoral votes obama is losing.

Sent by ginger baker | 1:28 PM ET | 09-18-2008

With the race as close as it is, I am afraid that we will see a repeat of the election outcome 8 years ago. It is sad that race is even a factor in this race, but I think it is. I have actually heard people say they can't vote for Obama because of his skin color. What year is this?!?!! McCain's campaign continues to use false statements to scare voters.

Sent by Ali | 1:36 PM ET | 09-18-2008

I do agree that there is an element of race involved in some American's decisions. If the American people can think really think about the goal for the nation, I am confident that Americans,patriotic Americans can not in good conscience consider race when they enter a voting booth, they will vote for what is best for America.

Sent by Theresa | 1:37 PM ET | 09-18-2008

"I do agree that there is an element of race involved in some American's decisions."

What a ridiculous assertion. As if the intentions and motives of millions of people can be unified and expressed in a single sentence.

You all should remember that polls don't necessarily bear any resemblance to reality. And NPR has not been clear about whether they actually research the validity of polling information.

Sent by Jody Sol | 1:48 PM ET | 09-18-2008

This year should be a landslide for the Dems after the disgrace of the last 8, why it's not has a lot to do with race.
The fact that the numbers are so close is absurd - I do not understand how McCain and his transparent, contrived choice for VP, could have so much support. Although, it is funny to hear a bunch of republicans yelling about sexism!

Sent by Amy McCoy | 2:02 PM ET | 09-18-2008

T-rex makes some interesting points. I am living abroad, and probably won't get a chance to vote, but I have not met foreigner who supports McCain; the world wants a citizen not a soldier to look up to.

Sent by Marshall McCue | 2:09 PM ET | 09-18-2008

I an an Obama supporter. First off, I am stunned that this is as close as it is. The lies, contradictions (McCain) inexperience and ignorance about important facts and policy (Palin) are to me so apparent I don't understand how this is close at all. Unfortunately, it is naive to think that race is not a part of this. I am sure a small but significant part of the population are still fundamentally racist. They aren't vocal, but they will vote.
It's a shame that so much is made of poll numbers. It has often and rightly been said that the only one that counts is the final one in November. If between now and then we could have some important discourse on the issues that matter, and not spend time blithering about personality and trash-talk, maybe we could get this right and give Obama a chance to work towards his vision. The main stream media have a huge role in this. Even with 24/7 coverage, the sensational still dominates.

Sent by Don Elliot | 2:09 PM ET | 09-18-2008

It seems to me that many who are ardent supporters of Obama, like T-Rex and Steve above, consider criticism of Obama as "thinly-veiled racism." I have misgivings about Obama on several fronts. That doesn't make me racist any more than my misgivings about McCain make me racist. As a person of a particular race, I am offended that people might dismiss reasonable criticisms as racist and avoid real debate about the candidates and their qualifications. (By the way, I am not a McCain supporter.) Yes, we all know racism is insidiously ingrained in our society among many, but judging from late-night television, ageism seems to be just as ingrained yet is saddly accepted almost without question. By all means, point out bigotry when it's apparent, but too quickly citing racism, agism, sexism, etc.-ism diminishes a real debate on presidential qualifications.

Sent by J.C. | 2:11 PM ET | 09-18-2008

Ageism verses racism. McCain's age is a real concern. If McCain should not be able to perform his duties due to his age then we will have an inexperienced VP in charge, Palin which is at best a worrisome prospect. Obama's African American race has nothing to do with how or if he will be able to run the country.

Sent by terry | 2:27 PM ET | 09-18-2008

I don't understand why other half of our population like to have regular guy who is just like themselves making executive decisions. I wouldn't trust myself or my dad on those circumstances. No one wants just any guy work on their roof or kitchen, then why we want a regular guy in the White House. I think Presidential candidates should be outrageously IVY league smart - someone much better than you and me. In case of Obama, he has the best combination. He represent 21st century. From multi racial to food stamp to Harvard Law school to Senator to Presidential Candidate, he has see it all.

Sent by Paul Benstein | 2:30 PM ET | 09-18-2008

you guys is smartys

Sent by kirplunk | 2:32 PM ET | 09-18-2008

Some people won't vote for Obama because he's black, some people won't vote for Palin because she's a woman, for McCain because he's old and rich - alas, none of us are free of prejudice of some kind.

Sent by Martine | 2:34 PM ET | 09-18-2008

It's amazing how few times the corporate owned media had to repeat the lie that McCain has narrowed the lead in the polls. First off, the polls are bogus. (Take a look around you. Do the last hundred people you talked to represent America?) If you look at how the questions are worded, the polls say a lot more about who is conducting them. I'm from Cedar Rapids, IA (where McCain/Palin are speaking right now) and I travel the state and talk to a lot of different folks about politics, and Iowa is predominantly Obama. Let me put it another way, don't believe the hype, Iowa is NOT a battleground state. I wonder how many other states are going through this. The country overwhelmingly supports Obama and a change in course, yet the corporate owned media continue to report that McCain is gaining, that it's going to be a horse race. Why would they want millions of Americans to think that McCain stands a chance? Could it be so they can further deregulate under another Republican administration? (Right on que, McCain says that he'd appoint a new SEC chairman... deregulation anyone.) I'm not saying that Obama is going to work miracles, theoretically he could be as bad as McCain, but McCain's track record works against him in so much as we know not to trust America to four more years of WTO/IMF style dismantling and "restructuring" of our financial institutions. Our country won't survive (ask Argentina). Our only hope is that Obama is who he says he is. We'd have a better chance of finding out if the corporate media would stop selling it's propaganda and started reporting fact based information.

Sent by Poolidge | 2:41 PM ET | 09-18-2008

Yes, Martine, such is the human condition. As for me, maybe I'll flip a coin. It seems to me that no matter who is in office, not much actually changes in the long run.

Sent by J.C. | 2:42 PM ET | 09-18-2008

J.C., this is Steve again. Just to clarify, I don't by any means feel that all criticism of Obama is racist. An example of what I consider to be thinly-veiled racism was a caller's comment I heard yesterday on the radio. The called said "If it looks like a Muslim and it sounds like a Muslim and it smells like a Muslim, it is a Muslim." Because in this political climate it seems to be acceptable to disparage anyone who is not Christian (When did that happen anyway? I was raised to respect all faiths,) targeting Obama as a Muslim sure sounds like a thinly-veiled way to dismiss a black person.

I'm glad that this racism is apparent in only a small percentage of those whose oppose Obama. But even this small percentage is disturbing to me and, I feel, completely un-American.

Sent by Steve | 2:47 PM ET | 09-18-2008

Steve, well said. Thanks for the clarification.

Sent by J.C. | 2:53 PM ET | 09-18-2008

Let's all keep in mind that most polls measure "likely" or "registered" voters usually by using or calling their home telephone. Obama's campaign is the first 21st century campaign whereby most of his supporters are not traditional voters and cannot be reached by traditional methods - we are young and have cell phones! None of these polls reflect this important fact. However, matter of fact does not aid and abet Obama's candidacy unless we young people with cell phones actually vote this year. My call to action to young Obama supporters: Let's show Obama how much we are dedicated to his campaign. Let's reveal the limits of traditional polling. Let's get ourselves and our friends to the polling booths!

Sent by ZTB - San Diego, CA | 2:55 PM ET | 09-18-2008

Spirits up, people! This is an exciting, interesting election! I took my three kids out knocking doors in our nearest battleground state last weekend, and had a great time talking to lots of undecided voters. Let's get out there and move the country in the right direction.

Sent by Dan Kirk-Davidoff | 2:57 PM ET | 09-18-2008

"We don't look to arsonists to help put out fires, but we do look to politicians to help solve financial crises that they played a major role in creating.".

Sent by Gideon Rettich | 2:57 PM ET | 09-18-2008

I did my own unscientific poll (less than 20 people)here in conservative Oklahoma and almost unanimously people did not want a continuation of the last 8 years; but even among Democrats who voted against Bush the last 2 elections I hear they will vote for McCain. The reason: they don't want to elect a black man. So please don't tell me that race has nothing to do with this. Obama is an honorable person who has the vote of this white, middle-age woman.

Sent by Marcia Bassity | 2:57 PM ET | 09-18-2008

ginger baker said, "in terms of electoral votes, obtama is losing"

Untrue.
Actually my 11 year old pointed out that according to the map of the electoral votes, they're tied:
One need only count the SOLID to see...

http://www.realclearpolitics.com/epolls/maps/obama_vs_mccain/

Sent by H. Bayer | 2:58 PM ET | 09-18-2008

Marshall McCue! I also live abroad. It may not be too late for you to vote. Go to votefromabroad.org and read through the instructions for your situation. Your vote matters!

Sent by Elizabeth L. | 3:29 PM ET | 09-18-2008

How about the people that dont want to vote for him because he is a socialist? I am black and Im not voting for him because he'll raise my taxes and I fundamentally disagree with him on the issues. And each state has a different amount of electoral votes. He is behind. I dont like the way hes running his campaign and they way he talks down to everyone. Jesse Jackson doesnt like it either. If he was a right leaning moderate like Powell, or Rice hed be in hands down. This guy should be mopping the floor with McCain. It shouldnt be close at all. Thats not racism thats Obama.

Sent by Marc Dyer | 3:31 PM ET | 09-18-2008

I actually received an email (one of those send 'em ons) from a fairly intelligent person claiming that Obama could be the antichrist because he is (it claims) Muslim. This email is incredibly disappointing. It saddens me that the American people are so brain washed by their supposed Christian (meaning prejudiced, racist, ignorant) beliefs that they have no actual concern whether or not the leader of this country in any way respects and looks after the welfare of its people. I'm terrified at this mass ignorance. I'm ashamed that our fake news media doesn't talk about real issues like this mass racism and ignorance. I'd like to say that I have hope. For me Obama is that hope. I respect how well he has handled himself in the media. But so far that seems to go unnoticed as the masses would rather have a lying frat boy run this country. Help!!!!

Sent by Melissa | 3:46 PM ET | 09-18-2008

"I am black and Im not voting for him because he'll raise my taxes..."

Marc, do you think that your salary is more imporatnt that the good of society. There are a host of people in the US who are unable to find the money to pay their mortage, see a doctor or even be able to put food on their table. Is your desire to keep ALL the money you make more important than helping American citizens in financial trouble? Your point of view seems callous. You may not be racist but you are definitely insensitive and uncaring to the plight of others.

Sent by Kathy | 4:02 PM ET | 09-18-2008

Dear H. Baker,

Sorry to say but your realclearpolitics.com is out of date. See polls listed on NPR article above.

Sent by Terry | 4:07 PM ET | 09-18-2008

I too am discouraged that the race is as close as it is. I wish somehow that we could only hear the voices of our candidates, be able to read their biographies and study their credentials and not know what sex or race they were. How could anyone in their right minds even consider voting for a man who graduated last in his class and helped get our country into the horrible state it's in (McCain) over a man who graduated from Harvard Law school (Obama) at the top of his class and has such great ideas for our country that even Bush has been implementing them recently? How would you even consider a person who has the least impressive credentials of any VP candidate in my lifetime (Palin), an unimpressive political record and questionable intelligence and character over someone with domestic and foreign experience and a degree for Syracuse University, etc. WAKE UP AMERICA! Why would you sell your very country down the river because of racism? We are all Americans. This country will continue to rot from the inside out because of this hatred, this not-so-thinly-veiled racism. What a sad state of affairs we're in.

As for the question of whether Obama is a Muslim, anyone who knows a Muslim knows that no true Muslim denies his own faith, marries a Christian woman or raises their children in a Christian faith. Again, WAKE UP AMERICA and do the right thing!

Sent by Concerned about our Country | 4:08 PM ET | 09-18-2008

What these polls haven't accounted for is all the African American community voters who don't take part in these online and phone polls but will come out in large numbers on election day and surprise everyone when Obama wins by a landslide! I don't want another four years of failed Bush style politics.

Sent by Pete | 4:11 PM ET | 09-18-2008

Marc...if you look at the facts, independent organizations have looked at both economic plans. McCain will definately raise your taxes and Obama will lower them. Read carefully, and don't vote for the man who will surely raise your taxes...John McCain. A vote for Obama is a vote for a reasonable approach to solving problems, based on reason and relying on intelligent advisors.

Sent by Mary | 4:13 PM ET | 09-18-2008

Republicans are pulling every trick in the GOP book. Lies about Obama/Biden or about their proposals, screaming sexism, whining about media bias, equating knowledge on foreign policy to being able to see a country from your backyard and much more .... The unfortunate fact being that all this may finally work in their favor. After all, maybe putting lipstick on a pig misleads most people to believe it's not a pig.

Sent by Jai | 4:18 PM ET | 09-18-2008

Increasing taxes isn't a concern about money, Kathy, it's about the economy. Higher taxes will create a burden on this slumping economy that we can't handle right now. Unfortunately, tax increases on the rich tend to coincide with measurable increases in unemployment--something we definitely don't need.

I'm going to be voting for Obama, though, for a variety of reasons. Mostly because McCain's impulsiveness scares me.

And on the Black thing--my grandma swears up and down that Obama's not only Muslim, but a "radical extremist." I don't even know what that means.

Sent by Ryan | 4:19 PM ET | 09-18-2008

"Obama is my MAMA. I love you Obama." I'm getting it made into a bumper sticker. I can't help myself.

Sent by Melissa | 4:27 PM ET | 09-18-2008

To Mainstream Media, I have to say that who are you? Are you Reporters of Truths or Messengers of Lies Deceptions and Propagandas? Chuck Hagel is right. McCain and Palin should be vote out for many reasons; Unemployment getting close to 7%, Stock Market Collapsed, Gas price is as high as ever, Everything else went up 25%, People are loosing their home daily, and McCain and his Economic adviser Mr. Gramm had to do a lot with these problems, yet most of medias supporting McCain /Palin since they do not want to admit that either they are paid off or scared of Republicans. McCain and Palin are on the wrong side of all issues and yet he gets free ride from Medias. All McCain's staff are Lobbyist and the worst on is Bill Gramm. McCain has no plan for economy and at many occasions he said he does not understand it. He is the ultimate flip flapper. Palin lied about bridge to no where, since she was for it and politician in D.C killed it and she kept almost 400 million dollar money. She abused her power and fired a commissionaire for personal reason. She was Mayor of six thousand people city , when she took over city had surplus when she left city had deficit even so that she took 27 million dollar of tax payers money that was given to her by D. C through her lobbies. Mainstream Medias are betraying Americans once more without any shame by supporting McBush.

Sent by Alain Sadeghi | 4:32 PM ET | 09-18-2008

WHY ARE CHRISTIANS VOTING REPUBLICAN?

I am tired of Repubilicans like McCain and Palin professing to be Christian and lying when the Christian faith tells us that lying is a sin.

I am tired of Republicans professing to be Christian and wanting to cut taxes for the wealthy when the Christian faith tells us to give to the poor.

I am tired of Republicans who profess to be Christians and then blatantly cater to the white voters when the Christian faith tells us that all mankind is equal in the eyes of God.

Why are Christians voting Republican?

Sent by Theresa | 4:45 PM ET | 09-18-2008

Marc Dyer -

I do not presume to know your tax bracket, however, I suggest that you take a look at the following chart:

MCCAIN OBAMA
Income Avg. tax bill Avg. tax bill
Over $2.9M -$269,364 +$701,885
$603K and up -$45,361 +$115,974
$227K-$603K -$7,871 +$12
$161K-$227K -$4,380 -$2,789
$112K-$161K -$2,614 -$2,204
$66K-$112K -$1,009 -$1,290
$38K-$66K -$319 -$1,042
$19K-$38K -$113 -$892
Under $19K -$19 -$567

Source:The Tax Policy Center

You can find a link to that chart and an accompanying article here:

http://money.cnn.com/2008/06/11/news/economy/candidates_taxproposals_tpc/index.htm

- - -

So, unless you make over 227K annually, you are actually much better off (as far as wanting more money back each year) with Obama.

FACT.

Sent by Angela E. | 4:48 PM ET | 09-18-2008

This is a great article about racism/white priviledge that clearly outlines the ways in which Americans are politically biased:
http://www.redroom.com/blog/tim-wise/this-your-nation-white-privilege

Sent by db | 4:51 PM ET | 09-18-2008

I'm disturbed at how easily uniformed consumers of information are swayed in our society. This historic and contentious election has been mired in the the gravity-laden yet non-relevant issues of both race and gender. Wake up America!

Sent by Rachel Fell | 4:52 PM ET | 09-18-2008

The world wants him and we need him! He represents an individual who has reached beyond hardship and made his own life that which it should be. We should all be proud to have someone with his intellect and determination not to mention compassion for average Americans running for office on a platform of CHANGE! America, we are doing something right to have Obama on the ticket!

Sent by Daniel Rainard | 4:54 PM ET | 09-18-2008

If we want to be a strong country again, we have to raise America's opinion of us. 22 international countries who were asked . . . choose Obamaha over McCain, as the leader they would want as our president. The foreign countries people don't want to purchase American goods. If we can bring more innovative technology with the next revolution of ego-friendly industry to America, more people will be working, more taxes paid, and then less tax per person, could result. We could be a totally different country in the next 4 years with Obamaha. McCain doesn't even know how to use the computer!
I also don't know why this is a close election. Some archeoligists believe that the very first humans on earth were black skinned. So we are all ancestors of different skin pigmentation, but we are all people.
At 65 years old, I have seen presidents age quickly in their job. I bet McCain would be releived not to win.

Sent by tosca | 4:58 PM ET | 09-18-2008

"Dear H. Baker,

Sorry to say but your realclearpolitics.com is out of date. See polls listed on NPR article above."

It's actually the SAME poll listed on NPR Above...

click on "0.9" in the above article and you'll get to the page where you'll see the polls - click on the map and it's the same map I referenced.

Sent by H. Bayer | 5:04 PM ET | 09-18-2008

Does this "Horse Race" look familiar? Say, to our last presidential election? I have a gut feeling we're are going to be looking at a similiar ballot count at the end, as well.

Sent by April Cox | 5:16 PM ET | 09-18-2008

Just so I understand this. If someone vote AGAINST or votes FOR a candidate because of their color they are a racist, do I have this right?

Sent by robert | 5:23 PM ET | 09-18-2008

Oh! The formatting for my last comment didn't keep.

It's pretty easy to figure out though.

The first number for each line is your income, the second number represents how much your taxes will be raised/lowered under McCain, and the third number represents the same figure for Obama.

Sent by Angela E. | 5:29 PM ET | 09-18-2008

McCain and Palin may be "ready and willing", but they certainly are NOT "able" regardless of color, gender,or age. Their "elaborate narrative of fictional victimhood" inspires neither confidence nor the sane, intelligent, compassionate approach to leadership we need today.

Sent by Vicki | 5:32 PM ET | 09-18-2008

Ridiculous bickering about things that don't matter to people who have decided be narrow minded and ignorant doesn't help! Make sure you caravan to the voting booth on Nov 4th. Oh I'm not crazy....Republicans find new ways to lie,cheat and steal all the time....Make it a landslide so cooking the books won't be so easy!

Sent by Traci | 6:05 PM ET | 09-18-2008

The majority of Americans are stuck in the past with their views of people of color. Just like the majority of Americans give a veteran and prisoner of war a deferential pass, regardless of his true ability to bring reform. If we cannot see beyond Obama's color, and the cynical wrapping of red, white, and blue around McCain, we will get at least four more years of American decline.

Sent by Alan in Ames | 6:42 PM ET | 09-18-2008

Theresa and everyone,
Please don't sterotype Christians as all being Republicans.There are many of us Evangelical Christians that are democrats such as Jim Walis who founded the Sojourners magazine and group in Wash. DC 25 years ago: and Tony Compolo who counseled with President Clinton following his affair:plus there is the REV.Martin Luther King Jr himself and the Christians who marched with him in the Civil Rights Movement. Unfortunately Reagans campaign used the abortion issue as"bait" to coopt many Christians and the Republicans have playing this card ever since.
Not all of us Christians fell for it.
The test for any society is how it cares for its vunerable citizens and the Democrats have a better record,beginning with Rossevelt during the Depression by beginning the public works project and Social Security, then continuing with Kennedy (Catholics are Christians too!)setting up the Peace Corps.
A few years ago there was a popular bracelet with the letters WWJD on them and stood for "what would Jesus do?".That guides many Christians as they evaluate the character of candidates and they often interpret it on both ends of the political spectum, not just Republican. After all Jesus fed the hungry which is what welfare is about!

Sent by jill | 6:52 PM ET | 09-18-2008

If I as a white don't vote for Obama then I am a racist. So what does that make all the blacks who will vote for Obama just because he is black???

Sent by Jimmy | 8:00 PM ET | 09-18-2008

I can't tell anymore who are we at war with? Al-qaida? Sunnis? Shias? Jews? Christians? Women? Republicans? Whites? Blacks? Liberals? Children? Please help, who should I be hating?

Sent by Bob | 8:24 PM ET | 09-18-2008

Jill;
I'd like to correct something you said "...coopt many Christians and the R. have been playing this card ever since." As the daughter of a life-long republican family (disclosure I'm a democrat) my family members worked for many famous campaigns, including the Reagan campaign, I, and many other Republicans who have since left the party, believe your statement is misleading. Since from my very narrow view, it was the Republicans who allowed the Christians in for monetary purposes, and have regretted it since the Reagan era. This resulted in many of them finding themselves Democrats since then. I am also Catholic and it is a branch of Christianity, however, it is nothing like Evangelical Christianity. I know, since I have many as friends (and family members) over the years, I have been to their Churches and sat through many ceremonies. There are basic precepts that set us apart, very far apart. Which is why, when in mixed company, such as a public forum, we simply can choose not to speak about Religion, but represent our views as such without using the word.

Sent by H. Bayer | 8:34 PM ET | 09-18-2008

race has nothing to do with it.obama will harm our country.

Sent by me | 8:40 PM ET | 09-18-2008

Think positive... I'm voting for Obama. And I'm a middle-class, middle-aged, working, white woman with a child and a husband living in North Carolina. One vote at a time, be involved, help others get involved and exercise their voting rights as a citizen of the U.S.

Sent by Beth | 8:43 PM ET | 09-18-2008

The global issue is the most important thing to all the candidates must have a duty to solve this problem immidiantly further from Thai people ; songkhla;

Sent by Surachet s | 8:47 PM ET | 09-18-2008

I am African-American and a graduate of West Point. I have seen my share of racism in both the civilian and military (decidely less) worlds. I know this country is not perfect (what country is?), but I love it. I am truly ashamed that, given all of the turmoil on this planet, we are still getting side-tracked by racism and other ignorance.
The current president had executive and military experience. Look where that has gotten us. Even if you believe that Iraq is a "front in the War on Terror", history tells you not to open a second front in any war. Are we actually shocked that our economic system is melting down before our eyes, when we are spending billions in Iraq every month? Why is the US military actually paying for gas in Iraq, when they have over $70 billion in the bank? Even Kuwait is still giving our military some free gas. These are the things we need to be thinking about instead of gender, race or accessorization (flag lapel pins and the like.) I want a smart person in the White House. Smart people know that they don't know everything, and surrond themselves with experts. Who do you trust? The collection of the guys that got us into this mess, or a collection of the guys that were in charge when the economy was last prosperous? I'll go with Obama and what amounts to Bill Clinton's economic experts.
We need to be better world "neighbors". I think that talking to the people you have problems with is part of being a good neighbor. If your neighbor had a problem with you, wouldn't you want them to talk to you before they start throwing rocks over the fence? I'm not saying the president should be going on long walks on the beach with Fidel Castro, but he should, at some point, look some of the troublesome leaders of the world in the eye and tell them what about their policies is going to get them blown up.
I am praying that Americans take this election seriously. This is not a reality show where the black guy gets voted off first. This is for the future of America, an we need someone smart.

Sent by Bryan Armstrong | 8:51 PM ET | 09-18-2008

I read these blogs with absolute disbelief. Is it possible to refer to the McCain campaign organizers more directly? Or does if have to be those 'stupid, moronic, lying, racist' republicans? Just what do you call the athletes at the special olympics? Is it in the realm of possibility that there could be Clinton Republicans out there? Is the strategy to invite them to support Barak by insulting people who have no control over the McCain camp? Keep it up, and just like Paul Begala, a Clinton supporter, said on ABC's This Week: (Paraphrased) "In an election where it would take an act of God, Democrats will find a way to lose."

Sent by robert | 9:08 PM ET | 09-18-2008

Wow Jill! It is so good to hear from someone like you! I was a very devout Christian 30 years ago during the "Jesus Movement". We really cared back then! We would have never imagined the terrible things that have become associated with Christianity - intolerance, bigotry, cheating. In 1975 I decided to live a monks life like St. Francis and I gave everything away but some clothes, a Bible, a guitar (for leading in praise) and childhood mementos. I fasted regularly and lived a rich experience.

Love, marriage and responsibility have moved my life in a more conventional direction since then.

It is so good to hear that some who believe as I did are still around! (Can I recommend that you and yours get louder?)

Sent by Steve | 9:28 PM ET | 09-18-2008

Kathy, Thanks for your comment - it was very well put. People in this country have become insanely greedy. The progress of this nation is suffering badly, and voting for McCain will not make things better. There is no guarantee that Obama will be better, but, at the very least, he wants to try. "My taxes will go up." Please. Think about someone other than yourself, for a change.

As for race. Sadly it is a very real problem. A co-worker of mine told me today that her mother will vote for McCain because she doesn't want a black man in the White House. And this wooman actually considers herself to be liberal.

Sent by Matt Taysom | 9:32 PM ET | 09-18-2008

Dear T-Rex, Concerned and Alan:

I could not agree more with you. I am a U.S. Citizen (21+ years living here), born and raised in Mexico City, married to a Munich-born woman and raising a multi-cultural, multi-lingual family in California. I spent 15 years traveling and doing business abroad and lived in Tokyo for almost two years. I'm giving some of my background because I want to you to know that I have seen a bit oif the "outside world" and have had many conversations with all kinds of people from other countries and have tried to really understand how they see and think of the U.S. and of the American people.

My conclusion is that, at the moment, the world is giving us one more chance to redeem ourselves and make things right. I'm not sure most Americans understand (or care), that our country has failed miserably to lead the world to a better place after the end of the cold war. As a nation, our lack of vision, leadership, integrity, focus and our greed-driven actions, has brought about a very cynical atmosphere and a bleak new world order.

Instead of capitalizing and all the good will we had around the world after 9/11 by truly embracing and promoting democraitc ideals around the world, we let a mediocre and corrupt group people manipulate us through fear. This brought to the forefront the worst in us: rightousness, vengance, prejudice, violance, distrust, religious fanaticism, etc.

The real question for all Americans is: How are we doing? Have we not had enough of the non-sense and provincial thinking? Do we really believe that our arrogance, poor example and erratic management of critical world issues will win us friends and influence?

I think that it is extremely naive for us to think that we, as nation, can continue to behave this way and keep any kind of moral and economic leadership position in the next couple of decades.

The writing is on the wall. If the melt-down of our financial system and the increasing loss of confidence by other nations in our government's ability to steer the world's economic and political direction, is not enough proof that we have to chage our domestic ways, then we are destined for an irreversable decline and fracture of the great American experiment.

Sent by Cenmar F | 10:08 PM ET | 09-18-2008

Thanks Jill.
I know deep down that all "christians" aren't conservative republicans, and i also know that all conservatives aren't white. But up until i read your comment i was a STRONG anti conservative, Phil Gramm, Trent Lott hating democrat who felt that any person who considered themself a conservative may as well call say " i vote republican because i'm uninformed and hate abortion, because someone told me i should." i am glad to see that there are christians who still believe in the tenets of the bible and think for themselves. i don't care if you are Democrat or Republican Iam just glad You think.

Sent by Antoine | 10:18 PM ET | 09-18-2008

America still has racism, fear, hatred, and all emotions that make us imperfect humans. I am voting for Obama simply because I believe we need REAL change, and also because I like intellectual snobs. GO OBAMA!! Keep the paid for media out of it, and just let us vote!

Sent by John Travitzky | 10:20 PM ET | 09-18-2008

I'm inclined to agree that McCain-Palin is ahead in the Electoral College vote, & the final vote by the states may not be close at all. It seems that a large portion of Clinton supporters, myself included, will vote for McCain-Palin. This will help doom the Obama ticket.

Sent by Fr.Dave Neven, Sophia Centre, E.Grand Rapids, MI | 10:23 PM ET | 09-18-2008

I think it's naive to deny that race plays some part in people's decision making when it comes time to vote. However, I think that this is more the case for voters who are less likely to sway in their decisions...i.e. they've most likely already decided who they're voting for, so the focus should be placed more on issues that are of universal importance to all American voters. I'm an ardent Obama supporter, and I'm well aware that part of what has made him such an inspiring candidate is his focus on what will make America better--not what makes America worse. Some say that he is unpatriotic because he has pointed out repeatedly that America is not yet where it should be. But the first and most important step in really taking pride in and caring for your country is to first come face to face with what needs to be improved. Obama has proposed programs that will encourage community service, getting people involved in the process of improving the country just like he has been able to get people involved so enthusiastically in his campaign. I've been on the Obama mailing list for several months now, and I have never once seen any request for me to go out and tell people what is wrong with America. I have only gotten requests to help get people out to vote, to get them involved in the campaign or volunteering in their communities, or doing something to make meaningful change because now is the best opportunity to make change that we have had in a very long time. That kind of leadership is what we need...positive, encouraging, inspiring leadership. And to make the most of it, we need to focus on matters that are of the upmost urgency, such as recovering from the dismal state of our economy, improving our children's education, getting people involved in improving their communities, reestablishing our friendships with other countries, understanding that we are part of the world community, not fighting against other countries to survive, but cooperating with our neighbors to make the world as a whole a better place to live. As long as we as Obama supporters allow ourselves to be distracted by focusing on the negativity that is overemphasized by the media (racism, sexism, elitism, etc.) then we are only backtracking. We need to remain positive and act in a way that best connects with the Americans that will make a difference in this election. Those who make their choices carefully, are turned of by negativity, and will choose the leader who they think has the best disposition to handle the demanding job of the presidency. My request goes to people of all parties: please focus on the big issues first...let's keep the negativity out of the election and encourage the voters to make their decisions carefully, and to not base them on any knee-jerk reactions due to fear, bitterness or hatred.

Sent by Phil Dugger | 7:25 AM ET | 09-19-2008

I told my father 3 years ago that it would be an Obama/Clinton ticket. He laughted at me and said that there was no way small town America would touch that ticket. While I might not have hit perfectly on the Dem ticket, I am afraid my Dad is more correct than I would like to believe. People often live in small towns because they don't want change unless it is to any earlier time. These are people who will vote for McCain because he looks like someone they can respect and Palin because she is so much like them.
They don't vote on foreign policy.

It could well stay Republican...sigh

Sent by Kimberly from Levering, MI | 9:07 AM ET | 09-19-2008

To start out with color has nothing to do with someone handling something. It the mater of who is the best one to handle the presidents office. So far I think Obama is still a kid and thinks this is a game he has used a ceo of a failed mortgage company to pick his running mate. He has been involved as being part of the problem that we are in now. Watch McCain's videos then watch CNN they have investigated everything he has said about Obama and hve confirmed that what he says is true. Obama has done what McCain said he has done. So use the your sources and listen to what they are saying about the candidates you will find it real interesting. Also don't worry about what moma or daddy or your best friend says cause they may not know the real truth that is out there. McCain has been around a whole lot longer that Obama and the knowledge McCain has on how Congress works.

Sent by ken | 10:21 PM ET | 09-19-2008