Reaction pours in on debate

Were we watching the same thing? McCain was desperate, scared and just not in control of the facts. He kept trying to pin things on Obama that just are not true. McCaine needs to get smarter.

If by winning, you mean acting like an angry old sore loser, than yes, he won.

McCain is right on a lot of issues, especially school vouchers and Roe v. Wade while Obama can't escape his shameful vote in favor of partial birth abortion.

And yes, McCain did answer the questions important ot the American people.

I think this was written yesterday....

Republicans are all about spin. Obama did great. Lets keep on message for the next 20 days. REAL change is what we need in Washington. McCain just seems like your miserable old Uncle who doesn't like dealing with the facts.

you are all sooooo in denial

McCain kicked his butt and this will turn the election

Obama won, on the basis that he did make efforts to respond to the questions while McCain just threw up attack smokescreens whenever he was uncomfortable answering a direct question. McCain was better in this debate than in the last one, but that's not saying much. I am voting for Obama (and I am an unaffiliated voter).

A side note: The moderator was FAR BETTER than those in the last 3 debates.

John McCain: cranky, snarky, blinking, erratic, beside the point, and out of touch.

Barack Obama: cool as a cucumber, prepared to lead, factual and specific, with a steady smile. President Barack Obama. Get used to saying that.

McCain was acting like a jerk...a creepy jerk

Obama showed his directed and focused thinking in this debate while McCain was agitated and frantic. I'm sure most reasonable people will agree now: Obama is the only logical choice to re-secure American health.

I think Obama looks more and more presidential. McCain looks like an angry old man. You know I was diehard Hilary, but I find Obama's coolness under pressure refreshing and comforting. I used to want more passion from him, now I sort of like his detachment. McCain is just so all over the place and then there's Sarah Palin. I dont want that woman anywhere near the oval office.

McCain was outrageous in asserting, in a boldface lie, that Obama is running the most negative campaign ever!??
What audacity and gall!
Independent analysis reports that the McCain campaing over the last 2 weeks was 100% negative.
I guess McCain believes if you say something bold no one will check out whether your lying.
Angry, bitter, old man.

Four debate wins for the Democratic team, just one more to go. The big one in November. Can't wait to vote for Obama!

Obama expressed his views clearly and coherently throughout the night, while McCain snorted, snickered, and slithered (what WAS that tongue thing?) in what was his creepiest performance to date.

McCain made us nervous, we couldn't follow him at times when he started going off on his tangents. His relentless attempts to associate Obama with the "bad guys" didn't seem to help his disposition or facial expressions. We felt that Obama showed more signs of a true leader - remaining composed while under attack, still able to stay on task and rationally communicate. Obama won in our books!

McSame=More people coming home in bags McSame= more lobbyists and more $ for special interest groups and the military industrial complex. Who wants 4 more years of the McSame? well if the polls are correct (for the past 2+months-) then not enough people for McSame to win. Here's to Hope

Palin has more experience that Obama...... Hillary says: John McCain could be president. Slow Joe says: Nobama isn't fit to be Commander in Chief.

Obama is a socialist - wants to take money from those who work and spread it around to lay-abouts...... including those engaged in MASSIVE VOTER FRAUD with ACORN....

I think Obama scared the people (at least those with Jobs). Of course Warren Buffet won't mind a littl tax increase...but the rest of will....

McCain/Palin 08 and 12~!!!!!!

Again, Obama had to continually defend himself against that pit-bull John McCain. That interferes with being able to hear responses to the REAL issues. So Obama wins AGAIN. Unfortunately, the ones that will LOSE here are the American people if McCain is elected. I am voting for the intelligent, calm, steady Senator from Illinois, Barak Obama. He is smart enough to put a decent cabinet together and get this country back on track.

The conversation about the VP choices was good and will work well in Obama's favor.

On taxes, it's been the same as its been the last 2 debates.
On Health Care, McCain was clearly out of his league.
On Abortion, McCain admitted he would nominate someone with pro-choice views, because that wouldn't matter to him. Obama made it very clear it DOES matter.

On style, it speaks for itself.

Obama's closing statement was good, nothing amazing but still very good.
McCain's closing statement was a lot like his campaign, very erratic and lacked much of a narrative.

Haven't we learned, over the last 8 years, that a smug, anger driven and not very intelligent man is not who we want as our President?
Sen. McCain, in his own ways, is very much like George Bush.

I will vote for the more intelligent, honest, cool headed Mr. Obama.
He speaks frankly about the issues, addresses the issues, and will restore
respect to the office and to this country in the eyes of the world.

Obama appeared presidential and unflappable. He spoke clearly and talked with common sense and intelligence. There is no comparison.

I have found myself irritated and disturbed by the body language exhibited by John McCain during all three debates. Tonight his continuous eye-blinking and frequent smirking spoke as loudly as his words. I continue to be impressed by the demeanor Obama maintains regardless of the obnoxious actions of his opponent. As far as the actual issues are concerned, I felt that Obama spoke about specifics and McCain had so little to offer that he had repeatedly used the example of Joe the Plumber. Give me a break! One issue I know a great deal about is our educational system as I have been a public school teacher for 30+ years. I can say without a doubt that unfunded mandates and the NCLB brainchild of Bush have helped to cripple our educational system. Obama has offered the most realistic solutions to improve our current system. I thought Obama won this debate and he certainly has my vote.

I have found myself irritated and disturbed by the body language exhibited by John McCain during all three debates. Tonight his continuous eye-blinking and frequent smirking spoke as loudly as his words. I continue to be impressed by the demeanor Obama maintains regardless of the obnoxious actions of his opponent. As far as the actual issues are concerned, I felt that Obama spoke about specifics and McCain had so little to offer that he had repeatedly used the example of Joe the Plumber. Give me a break! One issue I know a great deal about is our educational system as I have been a public school teacher for 30+ years. I can say without a doubt that unfunded mandates and the NCLB brainchild of Bush have helped to cripple our educational system. Obama has offered the most realistic solutions to improve our current system. I thought Obama won this debate and he certainly has my vote.

So...I guess if Obama gets elected, we'll all get prayer mats in the mail along with the redistributed wealth in our country (read socialism) so we can start praying to Mecca. Will copies of the Koran be given free in his early start brainwashing...I mean early start programs, or will they be on the supply list at Wal-Mart?

There is a big difference between pro-abortion and pro-choice. Republicans are all about spin and negativity. McCain seems confused and befuddled. I think he needs Cindy by his side at all times to help him function. Just what we are looking for in a President. Obama is the only logical choice for change.

I still have no idea what McCain's economic policies are - he goes back and forth from advocating for programs and government help to saying he's going to hack away at them. Did he really just say he was going to balance the budget in four years? And stay in Iraq? And increase presence in Afghanistan? And pay off all our mortgages? He's just plain insane, period.

Does any one remember the look at the McCain's face when Obama said "Zero Dolla" on the fine :-)

McCain's dreams were shattered right then!

Aislinn, Obama has been "trained" as a lawyer to be "cool under pressure". You are all being duped by a professional orator....like the lame duck governor you voted in (Deval) only because he was a democrat and a good speech giver. There is no history with Obama...no one (still) knows where he stands. All you Obama supporters are letting your hatred of George Bush decide your pick for the new president. Its very sad, and if Obama is the next president (God help us all), you'll realized that once again, you were duped into picking a candidate b/c he talked "pretty".
Get ready for our tax dollars to be spent "pimpin'" out Airforce One.

McCain was his usual jittery self and not very clear on allot of questions. He was too busy trying to spin bs and pin his opponent with untruths. For me it's a no brainer. Do you want an agitated , hot head, cowboy who can't seem to get the fact that these old stories he keeps spinning aren't getting him anywhere, in charge . He reminds me of Bush telling us how well the war was going in the mist of the civil war. Or do you want someone who seems to have a good command of facts that matter and a path out of this quagmire thats been created these past 8 yrs. Sen. Obama gets the overwelming nod.

I half expected McCain to yell "you kids get off my lawn!" He looks older and creepier the further he falls behind in this campaign.

While Obama did well (if not completely wiping the floor with McCain,) it was definitely for McCain an Epic Fail.

McCain had finally had enough of Obama being given a pass. Obama was left in the dust.

.

Senator Obama's lack of a meaningful record in leadership becomes more and more evident. If a cool and collected, persuasive attorney who's dexterity with words presents a facade of wisdom and right moral judgment convinces you, then you would be a highly vulnerable juror. However, if you are confident in vision, moral belief, faith and a record of bold leadership and long suffering perseverance, then you may agree that Senator McCain, despite his tilt towards anger, is the one you would follow into battle if your life depended on it. Sadly, yet realistically, the life of America does hang in the balance. Barack Obama is not Robert Kennedy - that party no longer exists - wake up and pay attention.

Clearly, there is already widespread agreement that Obama won the final debate, and yet you print the entire Hazelbaker statement! Why?

Anyone who thinks that McCain won this debate is simply in SERIOUS DENIAL!!! Barack cannot be any more clearer than he has consistently been on EVERY issue! You McCain supporters know deep down that Barack is the better canidate - you just REFUSE to give in for WHATEVER REASON! We ALL know that Barack SHOULD be the next president!!

Some of these comments are absolutely priceless. You folks are funny when describing McCain. All politics aside, he is a goofy old grouch, isn't he?

But he is really not helping himself. He did come across with more aggression tonight, but I think he actually looked even more out of touch. He just doesn't seem like the same John McCain I remember from a few years ago. We need focus, not politics, and I really believe Obama would be the better choice.

John Mccain is out of touch. He seemed very confused wanted an apology for something somebody else wrote. When is was Palin at the rally encouraging people to become uncontrolable to start chanting kill him kill him. Mccain made no sense at all.
Obama on the other hand, explained his plans when not interupted by McBlame.
Clearly McBlame is not coherent enough to be President let alone solve the mess DWya has got this country into. We need to think to the future. What we need to do is have a nation wide gas out. Stay home for a day. Then watch the gas prices go down

I've been sitting on Obama's lawn, near the fence for most of this election. I've been willing to give McCain a fair chance - checked out his website, etc. The Palin pick was really offputting, but I could 'get it' as a bit of red skirt for his base and I'd live so long as McCain lived out at least through his first term (providing some on-the-job training Palin so obviously needs). I've also thought some of Obama's shady associates are fair game for negative ads.

However, after tonight, barring some dramatic and shocking revelation, I'll keep my feet on the Obama lawn. Maybe even walk a little farther in, grab some of the BBQ. Tonight McCain came across as agitated, snarky, and blinking to the point of putting Steve Forbes to shame (anyone remember Mr. I Don't Blink Forbes?). I've also watched him at several rallies and all three debates. Other than his shuffling gate, I'm concerned about his upper arm and shoulder mobility. I haven't once seen John McCain wave or extend his arms over his shoulders. Is that arthritis or some other medical condition?

Actually obama never wins...he just comes off as a bullshitting lieing sack of shit politician with terrorist ties!!!

Senator, soon to be President, McCain won the debate and GOD BLESS will soon win the White House. Everyone realizes that the U.S.A. is a democracy that should be led by the most patriotic war hero that is President McCain, not a socialist regime that a dictator like Obama wants to spread all the wealth to. We are the U.S.A. and we need McCain, we are not China/Cuba and Obama needs to run for dictator there.

obama looks like he wants to wash McCains and his friends car for 20 bucks a pop!

School vouchers, as most insiders will tell you, are simply another way of doing away with public education altogether. It takes money from the schools that need help to give it to a select few, and it leaves the rest of the schools even worse off than before. It solves nothing. And for most kids, it doesn't cover the costs of a great school anyway.

I'd like to see how McCain feels he's going to measure how teachers in one school are better than another - to encourage this 'competition.' By giving kids tests to see how much they've learned? With unfunded inclusion students in the class (meaning many special needs children in a classroom without the appropriate support staff), with poor parenting leading to poorly behaved children, with increasing class sizes, how can you measure year over year if a teacher is excelling? Maybe one year a teacher has a bad set of kids, then the next year they got a great batch, then the next year there were 5 with developmental issues. Soooo, you test the kids and determine, what? There isn't enough money or resources to ever figure out which teachers are great and which aren't in a good way. And who would be a teacher with what they get paid. So, you kick out the bad ones and then you attract better ones with what? Good pay? Oops! McCain won't spend more money, so we can't do that. The real problem?? That we parents aren't doing our jobs and then blame the teachers for the problem.

McCain's policies benefit the rich alone. These are people who can afford to pay for their own abortions in another country. These are people who can afford to pay for a good health care plan - Mine was 10,000 dollars a year out of pocket - so 5K only goes so far. These are people who can afford private schools, after public schools have been done away with. If you're poor and you think anything else you've got a couple of weeks to do your research.

It's not the McCain that we used to know and love. The war hero, principled and maverick. Now what we see is a caricature of Bush created by the same producers and directors and owners of the Republican Mudslingers. It's pitiable and sad and we hope that afterthe election when Obama is prisdent, McCain would reflect on what he has given away. His family's honor and reputation for the price of a presidency; a price he is not even beginning to understand given the fantastic difficulties which a new president has to cope with. No money is worth that job. It requires a true patriot who loves America to accept the challenges.

John McCain appeared irritable and arrogant; Barack Obama seemed occasionally detached but in control. Barack could have easily gone on the attack on a range of issues, from the competence of Sarah Palin to the absurd idea that he should apologize for his campaign when the Republicans have been seeking to fear-monger their way to victory. He didn't, which may disappoint his supporters, but kudos to Barack for remaining thoughtful, serious and calm.
Keep calm, focused, and sail to victory in November.

Used to respect the Boston Globe; but will now only read it to follow the Bosox!

Excuse me, but where are the thinking Americans? Do you all pick presidents like this was an episode of Idol? "Cool as a cucumber," "presidential", and "coolness": since when are these criteria for selecting elected officials? At least listen and evaluate the ideas and principles presented and how they will impact our country now and in the future. For a look at what Obama will bring, see Cuba, where everyone has college degrees but lives in misery. Prosperity is something only the Castro Bros. know.

It would be tragic if McCain-Palin would reside in the White House.
Senator McCain is incoherent, mean of spirit and cannot focus on
issues. From the outset, Obama has expressed cogent and intelligent solutions to cope with the many critical issues facing the American populace. From the beginning of the debates, McCain has grasped these solutions, and in part touted them as his own. In this last debate, he had to struggle to control
his meaness and anger. He does not have the innate ability to aspire and
develop to statesmanship. He does not have the "dream" and "vision" on
behalf of the American People; he is too political and consumed by
self-agrandisement.

John McCain's support for Sarah Palin was pathetic. It sounded absurd when compared to Joe Biden, a competant, experienced leader. The best he can say is she is someone who maybe did something once...but, we aren't sure what. She knows energy because she was on a commision about it ? She gave everyone in Alaska a tax refund because the oil companies provide it? She is not qualified to be a heartbeat away from the presidency!
I was a hockey mom. I know hockey moms. And, Sarah Palin you are no real hockey mom.
Sarah Palin does not represent us!!!
John McCain showed incredibly bad judgement choosing her as his running mate. "BIG MISTAKE". (John McCain has misread the women's vote.)

I was truly impressed with the calm composure and direct answers from
Barack Obama. John McCain - well I felt embrassed for him and wondered why on earth the Republican Party or any people for that matter supported him.
Obama's answers were clear and articulate. I have many different opinions from both of them, however Obama won me over. I particularly liked the way he explained his Health Care plan - a lot better then what we have now.
I also asked myself while looking at the two of them who I would like to represent me and the USA and Obama came out on top in my mind

Bye, bye John, don't let the door hit you on the way out. You have run one of the most inept and dishonorable campaigns in history and have not only gotten beat by a better man, but have disgraced your legacy. Unfortunately for McCain and Republicans who denigrate intellectuals as out of touch, a reading of Shakespeare's Macbeth might have saved McCain from himself.

Vote for McCain... then 98% we get President Palin... and then America goes under quicker and Civilization advances one more step forward.

SO VOTE McCain / Palin ... AND HASTEN THE END!

Did BHO sound just like our Governor? Or was it just my imagination?

I appreciate so much that Senator Obama and Mrs. Obama are impassioned, but not strident. They are obviously thoughtful, informed, capable, balanced and genuinely concerned about the issues that affect our country and its citizens. And, I am so impressed by the way they relate warmly to each other, to the people on the campaign trail, and are calm and gracious under attack. It is my prayer that we will soon be calling them President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama!!

Unfortunately, the majority of American people will believe just about anything if it is delivered in a polished manner. Nobody can deny that Obama is a fantastic speaker. However, it is dangerous to just ignore all the allegations/potential questions regarding his character and past associations. The media won't throughly investigate and report on Obama's relations with Reverend Wright, because of the racial issues. If a white candidate had associations with a white church preacher that taught in the same manner as Reverend Wright does, it would be front page news, every day. If Obama didn't agree with his minister than why did he give millions of dollars supporting this church. Why isn't anyone discussing this??? And what about Obama Islamic background. After 911, how can anyone even consider electing someone that has even the slighest possiblity of having islamic ties. Are the American people that stupid? Apparently so, in many cases. And how can you support Obama, when his plan to stimulate the economy is to give tax incentive checks to those that don't pay a dime to taxes. How unfair is that? If you work hard and pay taxes, then your tax money will be given to those that don't pay tax in the first place. Should I just get out my checkbook and right a check to everyone that doesn't work. Let's face it, many people don't work because they don't have to. The government will support them. I'm sick and tired of people milking the welfare systems and having babies out of wedlock, knowing that the government will take care of them. What happened to taking care of yourself?

Obama talks the talk, of a lawyer. Full of twisted logic and evasive responses to direct questions. Sure his is the better speaker, but I want a patriotic leader running this country, not a good talker. WORDS, JUST WORDS.......

Why did McCain keep on about Obama's eloquence? If it was an attempt at self deprecation then it failed miserably. It sounded more like an admission of his own ignorance. However McCain lost this election some time ago. You don't run an election campaign based on impugning your opponent's character in the middle of a global economic crisis. At a time like this voters want solutions not character assasination.

Finally Obama cough it out that he will raise taxes from small business to spread the wealth around,it took John Mccain several attempt to try and have Obama cough out the secret of his economic plan and that is tax businesses and working people to pay for his promises.Cheer for John Mccain for staying with Obama and kept rubbing his back until finally the problem came out of Obamas mouth and what a relief for the Mccains camp and the Republican Party tonight.Now the nation witness and come to finally figure it out that Obama is for raising taxes while John Mccain is for lowering taxes.Tonight was all Mccain and the knockout punch finally landed by John Mccain and sent Obama clinging to the robe thanks to Bob Schiffa that call the end of the match.

ANGRY - like his supporters on all BLOGS, Chatrooms and the like, McCain is just too angry. Republicans seem to love to ATTACK! instead of having a mature discussion/argument. Immature, shortsighted and bad for OUR Country. (They always talk as though it is ONLY THIER COUNTRY).

John McCain comes across as somebody who did indeed hold his breath and have temper tantrums as a toddler, compounded by who-knows-what damage by 5 years as a POW--almost to be pitied but NEVER to be trusted to carry the nuclear suitcase. And Sarah Palin? The way she butchers the English language, I wouldn't trust her to be my child's 3rd grade teacher let alone to become leader of the most powerful nation on earth. My own mayor leads a larger constituency than she ever did (and he's not nearly qualified to become VP). Obama is the clear choice: a man of dignity, poise, intellect, and grace.

First, I think Senator McCain easily won tonight's debate based on substance and honesty.

Second, while listening intently to Obama in tonight's debate I again noticed that Obama has no original thoughts on creating jobs or industry nor the problem of American energy independence.

What Obama is doing is "recalling and echoing" what Senator McCain had said earlier in the debate.

It is quite obvious the Democrats have not a clue on how to develop sufficient new energy supplies that would make America independent of foreign energy supplies controlled by nations who can not be trusted.

RadarCat

The liberals are in denial. Just wait and see on Nov 4th. Shock and awe will be the front page news for the Obama campaign after he loses the presidential race that is suppose to be landslide victory for him as the media has been telling us with their polls in the last 3 weeks.

McCain's a tool, Obama's cool, and he took the cranky senator to school. If you're still undecided, grab a stool, and listen to my lecture on who is the fool:

McCain's health care plan will screw you
Obama's tax cuts will provide the glue
Now go vote Obama if you have a clue.

I listened to the debate on the radio while traveling. McCain sounded more direct, in control and backed with more facts. Obama seemed to be "playing it safe," as a contender would be while ahead in the polls. I don't think McCain sounded angry or agitated, but that is all in the eye of the beholder. In the end, I don't think these debates mean anything...I think all signs point to an Obama win as the polls seem to indicate a desire for a new party to be in charge. I personally think the terrorists will attack the US with vigor (terrorists look at "talk" as a delaying movement for their agenda), but I could be wrong.

I can't relate to Joe Plumber.

Vote "Right" or there will be nothing "Left"

"Fear" Warning......

Clearly, McCain IS out of touch! He reminded me of when a family has 'company', and you HAVE to send GRANDPA to his room, to keep from embarrasing the guests.

Obama stuck to his guns, methodically answering steady and solidly as a rock.

McCain (like the ol'd grandpa, who slobbers on his birthday cake, showed me a "MALE" pit bull with nothing left to do but BITE. He was horrible!

McCain behaves like a toddler in need of a diaper change.

Breaking news: Joe the Plumber is not a registered voter!

I think half the mcain flaks on this board are EASL folks, am i right?! Hey greedy ungrateful whiners! If you want crooked right wing politicians to take your bribe money, to cut your taxes, so you can go on getting rich selling booze, cigarettes and lottery tickets to poor people in neighborhoods you wouldnt live in, then go back to KOREA or PAKISTAN or MEXICO. No really, go, we will manage without you.

Obama is the biggest phony I have seen in a long time. Anyone can stand there and be cool, and market themselves, hey even P-Diddy is a great entertainer and cool. Its based on experience in getting things done and being committed to the Nation. Don't back up arguments of leading the free world cause he looks and acts cool. There are the voters that have no clue.

McCain is a true American, no matter what anyone says, he has actually proved that.
I can't wait to see when obama has to do actual work IF he gets in .
Be prepared for a nation of more problems, and ones we have never seen.
Icons and symbols don't make good leaders, good men do.

"obama looks like he wants to wash McCains and his friends car for 20 bucks a pop!"

Posted by Jack October 15, 08 11:44 PM

Boston.com How did you let this blatent form of racism slide? Shame on you!

I think the American people need to come to their senses whether Republican or Democrat...whether both candidates have fundamental differences... we must pick a president who has CHARACTER, MORALS and INTEGRITY which the American people failed the system when they picked Bill Clinton and continued to support him as a leader. He started the corruption in government and used his power to get what he wanted. I thank God that we didn't vote for another Clinton again in this election. I can't wait for the day when the United States has a real good democratic leader representing our country again.

Something our candidates haven't spoken enough about are taxing the wealthy, business enterprenuers, small businesses WHO PAY 90% OF OUR TAX BILL that BENEFITS the MIDDLE CLASS PEOPLE. If not for the small business that earn more than $250K who support the workers ...who Obama consistently speaks of 95% of the middle class people. We really need to think about that. I don't want to tax the small business company who I work for and is currently struggling because I do not know if they can afford to keep employing my position tomorrow. That might affect my family income and life style specially with the current climate changes in our economy. Another thing, I do not know of any rich/wealthy person who has ever gotten a rebate from the government. Although, I do know plently of workers who work for big and small businesses including myself that get rebates almost every year. The American people need to set their feelings aside of whether they are for Democrates or Republicans and start picking the right person for the job for the sack of our country and people. Whether all the other posted comments thinks McCain acted like a jerk...he was just trying to state factual issues or whether Obama looked more presidential....of course! Let's do the right thing when voting for the right candidate and think about the safety of our people and the next generation ....OUR CHILDREN!

Another clear victory for Obama. Poised, informed, articulate and focused on all the major issues with direct, well-expressed resolutions to our most pressing needs as a nation, in direct contrast to McCain's irritable, unformed and agitated responses. McCain wastes far too much time and energy in attacking his opponent, which shows how little he appreciates the importance of the issues at hand. Voters are watching, McCain...we're listening...and you're not delivering.
McCain's death blow to his own campaign with his choice of the inexperienced, grossly uninformed and intellect-challenged Sarah Palin as a running mate is more than enough evidence of McCain's unsound judgement.

Man, I just love all the McCainiacs posting here with their incessant bullshit about "socialism". Hey, folks, your Bush administration just managed to socialize risk and pick your pockets to that effect, while continuing to privatize profits, and give you nothing but more bills to pay. And without Obama and the Democrats, the package would have been a lot worse. I have to laugh, unless all of you on the right are very wealthy, that you continue to support people like Bush, Cheney, McCain, Palin, Rove, and the rest of that ilk who are so easily able to distract you while they steal a decent standard of living away from you. Here, you've got one moron saying Barack looks like he wants to wash someone's car - nice little bit of racism there. Another talking "shock and awe" - yeah, how's that worked out for the country, DN? As for McCain winning on honesty, you must be joking. Honesty requires a little something called honor, and McCain's campaign proves to this day that honor is something he utterly lacks. So, 4 debates, 3 Obama wins, 1 Biden win. None of them even close.

McCain is a bitter old man who doesn't have enough cojones to lead this country. I find it interesting that he keeps referring to "My Friends...." Who the hell are these "friends"? The same incompetent, greedy bastards who have already sent this country so far down the tubes that recovery is looking dimmer by the week. Wake up people ! Vote for REAL Change, not the "parroted" pablum that McCain has been spewing, in between his angry, mindless tirades against someone whom he doesn't even understand, let alone best when it comes to debating the real issues this country faces; nor does McCain offer any solutions; just more B.S.

McCain did better than in his other debates, but I think Obama was very specific in his arguments and won the debate. I thought McCain edged Obama for the first fifteen minutes, but Obama took the rest of the debate especially when McCain went with petty personal attacks.

Diehards on both sides will only see what they want to see.

The fact of the matter is that undecided voters overwhelmingly thought Obama won the debate. I myself was an undecided voter until tonight's debate. I think Obama is overrated. However, he is clearly a superior candidate when compared to John McCain, war hero turned dyspeptic grump.

I was afraid McCain was going to have a heart attack. At one point I thought he was going to cry. I have a new respect for Obama, he really kept his calm. Impressive is that he didn't say anything negative about Palin when she is really the single most reason anyone should NOT vote for McCain. McCain really just continued to draw on the negative when going into the debate knew that it doesn't work for him.

McCain seemed so desperate. His whole campaign makes me sick to my stomach. If America votes in those two dangerous freaks (after two terms of Bush and Cheney, nothing would surprise me), I think I'll die.

REF: Posted by Joe the plumber October 15, 08 10:58 PM
7 - "you are all sooooo in denial
McCain kicked his butt and this will turn the election"

I have $10,000, winner takes all, for any republican who is brave enough to stand by their stupid comment. Come on cowards, put your money where your mouth is!

Snorting: McCain wins
Sneering: McCain wins
Eye rolling: McCain wins

On every substantive issue: Obama wins

Oh and on considering a mother's health unimportant...McCain clearly is the winner here...he said it himself

Can you imagine if McCain cited Palin's command of the state National Guard as Palin's security experience? Why didn't Romney, Richardson, or Huckabee mention their Guard leadership?

for all of these people decrying socialism...what the heck do you call the recent bail-outs.That is the worst part of socialism and republican's support it!The good parts of socialism-would be universal health care!Hey If you want a working public you need to care for them!That's only good business sense!!!

I have been undecided until tonight. Yes, Obama did speak with great eloquence, but that is not what has swayed my vote. On almost every issue rather than deliver a direct solution or answer, McCain just pointed fingers and recycled tired lines. With the country in the state that its in we don't need more of the same. McBush is not the answer and he made that very clear tonight. Not only did he dance and sling nothing but negative slander, he came across as a angry out of touch old man. ****Please don't be fooled by the "poor -250k/yr -earning-plumber-John nonsense give me a break !!!

I'm a 62 year old in-country Vietnam veteran, and weirded out McCain made me so uncomfortable I couldn't get past the first 15 minutes of the debate. (I was actually waiting for John to say, "Barack looks a hell of a lot more like a VC than I do, too.") So I watched a few Manny at-bats while I listened to the cool new AC/DC album stream online. To quote the late Bon Scott, McCain was "shot down in flames."

I watched the debate outside US with great curiosity.
I think Obama's delivery and body language were more presidential than McCain. McCain was like a child who was complaining, attacking. A president should not be arogant like him. He is mad to be the president.
I don't know whom the Americans will choose on 4 November.
-- A.N.A

PLEASE!!! McCain supporters; GIVE ME SOMETHING!!!! Can you back up your arguments? I mean I want to know your side, I want to know how you think the past eight years have been beneficial and how McCain is going to further our prosperity. Every fact he has laid forth is going to increase the defecit. One that only grows in REPUBLICAN administrations. I USED TO BE A REPUBLICAN!!!! NOT any more, I found my brain, I hope you do to. ANd GOD I await an intelligent, FACT FILLED response, not just pathetic rhetoric.

this campaign shows transparently the pathetic and rediculously poor state of affairs you all face in the US... I have never witnessed a worse shambles in all of my life and is scares me to see how the US will ever recover...
A very sad day.
English man in Capitola.

McCain went into this debate in attack mode and Obama went in as a "do no harm". McCain looked as he needed a nap by the end of the debate. Obama only needs to sit back, let McCain ram on and watch the numbers go up for him.

McCain is too arrogant, too unrelenting and so NOT Presidental. He's done! His campaign of hate is over.

Obama won it going away... I'd give it a 70/30 score. McCain started out sort of strong, but you could see him getting extremely figitty and nervous, and making those awful faces. Obama, OTH, remained extremely presidential and paried any/all jabs McCain tried. McCain reminded me of Bush senior (looking at his watch) and Al Gore (sighing in disbelief) most of the night.

And yes... Obama basically took McCain out to the wood shed on health care, pointing out that you can't buy quality health care for $5800... it's more like $12,000 and up for a working family of four and aren't they who we're all talking about?

I hate to say it, but I now honestly believe that McCain considers Obama unqualified when compared to him... but then, I doubt that John McCain has really looked in the mirror of life lately.

comment #39.. check your facts....he doesnt have a terrorist ties.... non non at all..stop lie to the american people... and mcCain sure did a great job.. compare to the last 2 debate... but i think obama came did a great job 2...

How dare some of you people put down Senator Obama because of his name. How about all of your ancestors who came as immigrants and shortened their names. He is just as he says he is A son of a black man and a son of a white woman. He is not a terrorist or a hate monger.
I live across the street from a child molestor,,,,,,did not know this until recently......but have found him to be a nice person..........so I still talk to him. Does this make me a child molestor, just because of me knowing the man, being in the same room as he is in at functions. Come on Americans let us give this a rest. BarrBarack wo

.
The style of debating was finally structured such that issues could be discussed at length between the candidates. McCain had finally had enough of Obama being given a free pass, and he handed Obama his butt on a platter. Obama was left almost speechless time after time. Toward the end of the debate, Obama looked tired and defeated. He appeared confused and couldn't stay on topic.

The debate was mediocre.McCain came across as a sour old faker,sarcastic,economical with the truth and obsessed with the fact that he was "Once a Hero" Obama did not rise to the bait and the nett result was a flat debate in which neither man came across as "Presidential"Obama will probably win the Presidency but neither man comes across as "The best thing since sliced Bread"
The U.S of A. on November 5th will wake up with an "unknown'" President .We, here in the UK will celebrate "Bonfire Night".I wonder who will get the "best deal"

I dont feel McCain is going to help low income people be better off. He is more interested in international affairs than whats going on abroad. He is into it to make his own wallet fat. RICH WILL STAY RICH AND POOR WILL STAY POOR! He IS a wolf in sheeps clothing. EXAMPLE: He abandoned his wife standing on stage by herself. If he abandoned is wife,when will he abandoned us,the american people? He is selfish and a old male chauvinist. HE IS STUCK IN THE PAST!!!
Yes,I am a White American Women and I am not affraid to approve this Message.

You had to be impressed with Obama's patience, demeanor, and command over his agenda during last night's debate. He never rose to the baiting McCain repeatedly cast at him. Where McCain appeared surprised, nasty, and inappropriately emotional, Barack appeared thoughtful, in control, and confident.

Simply put, Barak Obama looked presidential.

Obama made a stronger case for his party's platform than McCain. He put the Ayre's and ACORN matters unequivocally to rest. He scored huge points with women voters with his health plan and soundly debunked McCain's health plan.

I think the moments following the conclusion of the debate were remarkably telling. Watch it again, and note the differences in the body language of the couples. Cindy and John stood stiff and apart. Barak and Michele were relaxed, intimate, confident. Look back at films of John and Jackie Kennedy and tell me you aren't reminded of "Camelot in the White House".

In every way, Obama

Obama is a thoughtful candidate, and a thoughtful citizen who is politically savy, but also truly believes we all deserve basic services i.e
healthcare, and education. People on the right will never understand that
there is enough wealth to spread around. (what is wrong with that?) The government would have enough to pay for these services if we could eliminate the greed and corruption that puts more money into the hands of the wealthy. Mc Cain
seems not to live in the "real" world, I trust Obama, and pray that he wins.

As a long-time frustrated Democratic voter, I have to say that last night was one of the most enjoyable 90 minutes of the past eight years. On every question, every issue, our man (you know, "that one") provided intelligent, well-reasoned responses, and just gained in strength throughout the night. The other guy looked like an old boxer in the 15th round of the fight, backed up against the ropes and just trying to stay on his feet, throwing wild punches and hoping for a miracle knockout. McCain's closing statement was a concession speech. I liked Obama before this debate, but after last night I am seriously fired up to go & vote for him next month.

Bottom line - Obama needs more experience and needs to prove himself to the people of America. His past is sketchy and his future relies on all of those who will be advising him. We deserve someone with a better background and resume.

All of you sound so pathetic! All you democrats are so obsessed with what you want to see and are so blind sided by how great Obama is. Give me a break! Smooth talker, great poise, nice posture....share the wealth! Oh my God! What has he proven aside from charisma that the American people are so crazy about. Does his background and resume truly deserve being the "President of the United States? Remember Clinton's charisma got us in trouble too! We don't want to go there anymore! Think about it people!!!!!

Barack Obama - a smooth talker, great poise, nice posture....share the wealth!!! How is he suppose to talk or look? Like President Bush? Give me a break. If you aren't aware of this, Barack Obama is an educated man. I prefer an educated man that appears to be thoughtful of his fellow Americans. Neither him or McCain (or anyone else for that matter) has the answer to everything but I want a peacemaker not a hot head. Our money says " In God we trust " and that's what we all need to do. Pray that the right man gets in office because if not - God have mercy on us!!!!