All about 'Joe the Plumber'

Anese Nuriddin, Tulsa, Oklahoma — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 04:55:23 GMT

For years the media has propagated a continual stream of Republicanism with Pat Buchanan leading the anti-Democratic charge. I found Msnbc quite by accident and it was like a breath of fresh air. Then we have to be subjected again to buchanan who is still just as he always has been with the same slant and it is so out of touch with a new direction of less negativity and attacks the Republicans have poured on us all these years. I, frankly, cannot listen when he is on. He has been wrong about each and every debate (he believes every time McCain or Palin has won). It makes you realize just how he has trouble facing reality. He is jurassic just like McCain.

All about 'Joe the Plumber'

Claire Lewis — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 04:59:24 GMT

Buchanan keeps saying that Palin has not been a cause of McCain's downfall. She has. She was spunky, funny, new and got a lot of our attention. I was a 65 year old undecided woman voter who voted for McCain in the primary, but he lost my vote when he chose Palin. I was paying particular attention to vp candidates, they were important this time around. I know why he did it but she is not presidential material, not now, maybe some other time. She's cost him votes even with my conservative friends who couldn't stand Obama and used to send me derogatory emails about him.

All about 'Joe the Plumber'

Mark Garrity — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 05:18:41 GMT

I am a plumber. I own a small heating and air conditioning business in New Jersey. For me the Obama Plan STINKS. I am already srtruggling with the highest tax burden in the Nation. The highest Insurance Rate. State imposed Family leave for employees. State imposed health care insurance for all employees. I'm just barley making it. Now because my business might be turning a profit I'll be taxed at a higher rate so more money can be put in the pockets of ACORN and other free programs. Enough is enough. Also your Blantent disrepectful form of Journalism just turns my stromach. You have gone from a news reporting agency to a Partisanesd Political Rally Forum. I have to Boycott everything that msn is associated with . All Advertisers MS Products and espically your programs. Hope you never have a plumbing, heating or air conditioning problem. You'll be very hard pressed to get any service from any of the professionals I'm associateed with after I forward your commentary. Heres hoping when your knee deep in it in the future. Don't call me.

All about 'Joe the Plumber'

Joan, CT — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 05:18:59 GMT

Pat Buchanan maintains that it was the economy that was tanking the McCain campaign. Rachel differed, offering that it was the Palin candidacy. I agree with Rachel completely:

The reasons go to the word "base". A "base" for anything indicates the greatest mass upon which to build the rest of the structure.

I submit that the "right wing base" was a projection, created in 2000 by campaign people to bring in working class voters. The base didn't really exist, it was a perception put out there by strategists. The real base, traditional, moderate Republicans accepted the additional votes and ignored the notion of "base" and voted Republican. They did so again in '04.

Now, this so-called "base" has come so far as to have their own candidate for VP. The true base, of moderate Republicans, middle to upper middle class, white collars, urban/suburbanites simply would never identify themselves with what they perceive as fanatical, irrational, anti-intellectual, zealots who cannot demonstrate the capacity for intelligent discourse.

Most Republicans could never see themselves in this light, and would never pass the "far right" litmus test on social issues. They may even be embarrassed by Palin's inflamatory crowd whipping. More embarrassing to them is that they would ever be perceived as validating extremist views, or be placed on the level of the adoring rally attendee.

The old, or true base would characterize these crowd responses as simplistic, mob mentality from "far right" survivalist types who reject consensus, moderation and are enjoying the spotlight which McCain bestowed upon them. The true base is insulted and is quietly walking away, lest they get something on them. They don't relate to "joe six pack", moose hunting, etc. They do relate to Katie Couric, higher education, tolerance and moderation. Most of them would have flocked to the old, fiery, indpendent thinking war hero that was John McCain. Put Palin (aka the extremists) up there and watch them follow Christopher Buckley - outta there.

In '08 the campaign strategists came to believe their own spin. If the base existed in sufficient mass the polls would look quite different today.

The problem is that McCain believed the Bush stragegists, he thought he needed them and he accepted their terms. He lost his mojo, his message and the respect of his real base.

It is clear that McCain didn't hire the Bush campaign team -
They hired him. It became most obvious in his choice of Palin.

Rachel - You were right.

All about 'Joe the Plumber'

Tracie, Mesa, AZ — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 07:01:23 GMT

Could someone PLEASE Tell Joe the Plumber that he will be taxed on his NET PROFIT and not his revenues? A plumbing business in the USA that makes over 250K a year PROFIT??? In a small town in OHIO?

I seriously hope someone will help this man understand how taxation works before he buys a business that he thinks will make him one of the rich... but will really just be more headaches than it was ever worth.

All about 'Joe the Plumber'

Tim, Honolulu, HI — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 09:48:58 GMT

I think boh candidates missed great opportunities to score points against the other - McCain never mentioned that if Obama is elected the Demos will control Congress and the White House and the opportunity for excess would be rife - Obama failed to point out that McCain was using Joe the Plumber, who is making $250,000 plus a year as his "average Joe" when 95% of the country does not make that kind of money and also that if McCain appointees were on the Supreme Court in 1954 that the U.S. would still be segregated and that women would still be without many rights -

All about 'Joe the Plumber'

Debbie Ivey Port Saint Lucie — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 10:28:38 GMT

Great job McCain, everybody needs to stop saying another 8 years. Well i hope we have another 8 years, when you have countries that want Obama to be president like Russia, that's pretty scary to me. Why would they want him to be President. The housing market is what's has the economy down. And how can that be Bush's fault it's the banks which we are now bailing out. Wallstreet which we are also bailing out. And the mortagage companies. That's just a fact my friends. Stop blaming everything on Bush remember we do have a congress and it is they who vote. Look past the smooth talker and for heavens sake wake up and smell the reality. And don't listen to everything the media says.

All about 'Joe the Plumber'

Keith Samsel, Saint Petersburg, FL — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 11:01:52 GMT

Obama's tax plan would increase Joe the plumbers taxes from 36% to 39%. For a person making $250,000, that's $7500.00 more in taxes. I doubt $7500.00
would prevent Joe the plumber from starting his business. If unemployment skyrockets, where's Joe going to find customers? Furthermore, Obama's plan is not a redistribution of wealth. It's called tax fairness, and it's still not fair.
Warren Buffett says he pays 1% in taxes while his secretary pays 30%. I wouldn't call that fair, would you?

All about 'Joe the Plumber'

Jeanne, Long Island, NY — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 11:52:43 GMT

A comment on your comment Mark. I am a woman. The idea that my body is not my own is beyond belief! That's number one. Number two, McCain should own up to his campaign's part in not standing up to hatred. What really strikes me is that McCain thought Obama should apologize for someone he has no control over. On the other hand, Palin the put bull in lipstick, is creating hate in his name. Sen. McCain needs to own it. Three, come on John, you and Bush have been buds for the past eight years and I don't remember you going against his policies. It will be MORE OF THE SAME. Unless and until you admit an error, how can you overcome it and change it?

All about 'Joe the Plumber'

Vinny Brewster NY — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 12:16:58 GMT

To Mark Garrity,

You are just wrong about policy. I am losing my restaurant at the end of this month because of the disasterous Bush- Mccain economic policies who never cared about SMALL business.

All about 'Joe the Plumber'

Tony, Ca. — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 12:29:36 GMT

Joe the Plumber isn't registered to vote.

http://www.politico.com/blogs/bensmith/1008/The_Joe_file.html?showall

All about 'Joe the Plumber'

Job Burns — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 12:56:06 GMT

Losing Joe the plumber's vote and getting all his employees' votes is all worth it. Joe the plumber gets it wrong again by introducing a misleading characterization of Obama's tax plan.

Its not about wealth distribution, Obama actually proposes tax burden sharing among all Americans, the employers and employees.

The Bush philosophy of giving healthy tax breaks to corporations and the wealthy has been over-burdening the middle class for eight years and that must revert to the Bill Clinton philosophy that Obama shares.

McCain's sweeping assertion on Obama trying to stir 'class wars' between the rich and less wealthy will come to haunt him as he clearly sounded more like the advocate of the wealthy minority.

Lastly, McCain needs to work on his temperament which is neither presidential nor assuring. Obama got my swing state Virginia vote.

Job Burns

All about 'Joe the Plumber'

Thomas G. Weatherly Natchez,MS. — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 12:59:21 GMT

Obama has brought out every liberal that exists,america has bought his smooth talking manner and it is a mistake.I admit he is intelligent,but so am I.Common sense and hard work is what this country great.Handing out tax breaks to everyone 95% of americans for doing nothing is a joke .Get off the couch and the pity party and make your dream happen.We are the power not the politicians.This election has a candidate who is a wolf in sheep clothing.Wake up,question authority.Lets take our country back for the people of all races and national origins for freedoms and rights under our constitution.

All about 'Joe the Plumber'

Unhappy Grandma,Lancaster Ohio — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 13:06:29 GMT

will the REAL president please stand up? People want
answers, not taxes and being told what and how to vote. Sit in the shoes of anyone on social security
and tell them, our money we earned, is just not there, gosh we KNOW that our check keep shrinking and nobody is accountable in soc. security office. Thier attitue is WHO Cares.! A believable person will show up, hopefully before we all have to move to China,
I am disturbed we borroed from them?! What for?
politicians spend all our money and ask for more!
Give us All a break. We are human beings,not tax dollar pay machines.

All about 'Joe the Plumber'

Barbara Hanover, Pa — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 13:07:49 GMT

"Let me win. But if I cannot win, let me be brave (honorable?) in the attempt." That's the athelete pledge of the Special Olympics. Since Mrs. Palin and Mr. McCain have now exploited special needs children for their political agenda,they would do well to read it.

All about 'Joe the Plumber'

Brad, AL — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 13:24:56 GMT

This is a reply to the comment above by "Mark the plumber". It is nice to hear that you own your own small heating and air conditioning business, and hopefully you will be able to keep it going as we are already losing many jobs and numerous businesses having to close. You mention that the Obama plan stinks. However, you also mention that right now you are "already struggling with the highest tax burden in the nation", the "highest insurance rate", a "state imposed family leave for employees", "state imposed health care insurance for all employees", and that you are "just barley (barely, that is) making it". During the past 8 years we have been under a Republican president and most of this time under a Republican Congress. You want to say that the Obama plan stinks, but look at the plans you have currently been operating under. No, McCain is "not George Bush" but Obama hasn't been the President either. McCain is a Republican and has voted or agreed with the majority of this Republican's presidential policies. Under Obama's plan, you would get some tax breaks and assistance to provide your employees with health care (unless you don't care about your employees and want them to have health care). Being a small business owner, you probably don't have a lot of employees. However, it is your employees that help to make your business successful each and every day and help to turn your profits. You also mention about being taxed at a "higher rate" just because "my business might be turning a profit". Come on now, if you hadn't been turning a profit already you wouldn't have a business. Now, if you are among the 2% of small businees owners who have an INCOME of more than $250,000, yes you would have to pay more in income taxes. I wish I was fortunate enough to make that kind of money, and if I did then yes I would be willing to pay more to help the masses of Americans who it would take a decade or more to amount to that much income. McCain "talks" about no increased taxes for anyone, but the money has to come from somewhere?? He is just looking at continuing to protect the wealthy folks again and not helping the masses of Americans who will never make that kind of money. Now on the comment about MSN. You have the same rights as the rest of us Americans, so if you don't like what is being said on MSN you have the right or the choice to not watch, read, or listen to anything they are saying. Move back to watching FOX exclusively then since they will probably say what you want to hear. You also say that "heres hoping when your knee deep in it in the future. Don't call me.". It sounds to me like you are waist deep in it now, and unless some real changes come about (and separating our country from these failed Republican plans) we won't have to worry about calling you because you won't have a business anymore.

All about 'Joe the Plumber'

Jen, Sandy, UT — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 13:25:05 GMT

John McCain appeared angry, frustrated, disdainful, dismissive, rude, stubborn...any number of unattractive, non-productive adjectives in tonight's debate. It seemed like he wanted nothing so much as to punch Barack in the nose and leave the room. If he cannot have a discussion with Barack Obama without becoming so angry one wondered if he would literally pop, how will he deal with world leaders with whom he has differences of opinion?

McCain's whole argument about the negativity of his campaign continues to be based on the idea that it's Barack's fault; if he'd done it my way (town halls), we'd be getting along just fine, and furthermore, my feelings are hurt.

Please. Get over it, John. Time to grow up.

If that's the person the American people choose to represent us on the world stage, Lord help us. Luckily, it appears that most Americans have more sense.

All about 'Joe the Plumber'

Al Clark, Virginia Beach,VA. — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 13:25:05 GMT

I think that we are all missing a crucial point that keeps showing up in these debates.
PLEASE IMAGINE A MAN LIKE McCain rolling his eyes,going on temper tandrums,making false accusations and trying to intimate foreign heads of state,especially our enemies,just because they don't agree with his self righteous stands on issues. BULLY BUSH has tried this for 8-years and look what it got us. Bush said that he looked into Putin's eyes and saw a decent man. So much for his judgement of people but maybe that is why he chose the most ruthless vice president in history and McCain chose the most unqualified person to be vice president also in american history.

All about 'Joe the Plumber'

Sunny — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 13:33:43 GMT

Not quite sure how anyone can think the media's Republicanism is led by Buchanan but, to each their own. As for the VP selection, if Biden was so great, why didn't Democrats choose him as their nominee instead of Obama? He's not so he wasn't chosen.

What's frustrating for me is when female media personnel automatically ASSUME "women voters" are pro-choice. NEWSFLASH: not all women believe abortion should be legal. It's just that those who do have the biggest mouths and use it to great effect within the media. There are many college-educated, working women out there who are pro-life. These women have a strong firm grasp of what is going on in this world and in their communities. They are not all white, upper-middle class women either. They are from all races, all classes and they won't vote for someone who believes that choice of killing new life is worth more than the heart that beats within the life. Does that make them any less of a woman because of that? I think not.

All about 'Joe the Plumber'

janice vaughn, winchester, KY — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 13:36:14 GMT

I, at one time, thought John McCain was an okay guy, but after last night's debate, I found him to be an angry, disagreeable, old man! I found myself disliking him more and more as the debate progressed. I would not want this man to be running our country.

All about 'Joe the Plumber'

Ted, NC — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 13:38:01 GMT

Joan in CT: You would have been a far, far better pick for McCain's VP!

All about 'Joe the Plumber'

Davenport — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 13:42:41 GMT

Here is a thought. Why would you elect someone who offers no Change as he has obviously been a party animal for his time in the senate. look at his voting records. Always with Mr W Bush. America will be insane to get McCann in as they will lose a golder oppurtunity to offer some real new ideas and an electrifying leader. Also dont forget Mc canns hearbeat stops and you have a pitbul who is intent on destruction with very little experience of foreign affairs (oh except of course Russia which is across the waters !!) Wish the foreign policy and diplomacies were that simple.
Come on USA vote for the chance to get OBAMA in. give him a try for 4 years and see how he does. You got W Bush in for 8 years and look what we achieved .......

All about 'Joe the Plumber'

Jose52 — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 13:42:55 GMT

Viva jose the plumber! In one fell swoop, an issue an unmasked obama as a Marxist. To each his own according to his needs (MARX), OUCH! The left will rationalize this issue, but bambi has the wrong idelogy during these times. During the debates he still want to do the dem tax and spend which will be be bad for our economy( created by the dems with their ACORN/obama loans and sub prime mess). Obama is a liar when he said McCain was 100% negative in his campaign. Obama's character and lies shows with Ayers, Rezco, Rev. Wright, Farrakan, and this voter fraud with ACORN. This is too much! The MSM and MSN are in the tank bambi and mchelle my bell.
Oh, obama did the required abortion support to get his planned parenthood money and supports killing innocent babies. This guy must be on dope (no that was 15 years ago).

All about 'Joe the Plumber'

Terry Minke, TX — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 13:53:28 GMT

Interesting comment made by one of the bloggers... Calling John McCain and Pat Buchanan, Jurassic.

Maybe that's a place in time for America to return to... It's the America I grew up in. An America where neighbor helped neighbor without it being a government project. An America where real moral values shaped the character of men and women who were willing to die for the rights of their family and friends and even people they didn't know to live in freedom. An America where you could go to the park with your friends and have a picnic, without the fear on being mugged or assaulted by some vagrant. In my Jurassic America I was able to ride my bicycle all over the city and countryside without fearing that some “sicko” whose moral values have been perverted by the trash that now appears on TV and in our theatres that once had to be place for those private individuals who had the freedom to choose to partake, but in the privacy of their home instead of exposing it to the masses in as a justification for "rights" of individuals. In my Jurassic America, I was free to discuss my religious conflicts as a matter of pride and civil discourse without demeaning someone else’s ideology, creating some new phobia that really doesn't exist.

My Jurassic America didn't need the government to interfere in my education, because my teachers were free to teach me what I really needed to learn to make me a better person, not only academically, but also morally and with the discipline that has given me success in business and my personal life and shaped my relationship with others to this day. That's the America John McCain remembers and has fought for and wants to continue fighting for as our President. What New America does Barrack Obama envision? I’m not sure, because we haven’t been given the privilege of seeing inside his real person yet. Where does he stand? Is voting “present” a position or a state of uncertainty that we can’t afford to be in at this critical time in America? If it's anything in the direction we have gone over the last 40 years... Put me on the helicopter back to Jurassic Park... It's a safer place to live, despite the dinosaurs who roam freely there.

All about 'Joe the Plumber'

PAM , MT MORRIS MICH — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 13:56:14 GMT

Plain & simple... The right wing is BROKEN!!!!

All about 'Joe the Plumber'

Kelly (from Pittsburgh) — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 13:59:10 GMT

As a strong Obama supporter, I must say that I think he misspoke to Joe the Plumber. The marginal tax rate hike of 3% is not on revenues of over $250,000, but on profits. So if Joe the plumber is goign to not buy out his boss because if the business profit is $300,000 and Obama will increase his taxes a whopping $1500 (50,000 * .03) then he is making a bad decision and shouldn't try running a samll business anyway. As for Mark Garrity, If you are making over a quarter a million a year, you are not "just barely making it." It is funny how even rich people perceive themselves as struggling. Because they have mortgage payments for million dollar homes and boats. But they have no sense of how most Americans are struggling to keep food on the table and a shelter over their family. The truth of the matter is even if you do make $300,000 a year as a small business owner, Obama will probably still end up saving you money overall. Because of his tax credits for the health coverage that you hopefully offer to your employees. And spare me your whining about Family leave. If you don't want to treat your employees with basic rights and just want to exploit them for profit, move to China.

All about 'Joe the Plumber'

Hilda Simmons, Chicago, Illinois — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 14:08:31 GMT

Enough of these Joes! I think this one was a McCain supporter who positioned himself to get close to Sen Obama. Don't let deceptions rule your votes!

All about 'Joe the Plumber'

Ron Emanuel, Sacramento, California — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 14:10:00 GMT

John McCain has to use insulting attacks on Barrack Obama because he has nothing else to offer. It started with Obamas supposed lack of experience and then McCain picks Palin(???). Now the buzzword is the "terrorist" Ayers...but what about McCains association with the Keating Five. McCain wants to protect unborn children but cares not for the mothers life. McCain has to use negative ads because he has nothing to offer but more of the same. I have no reason to vote for him...Obama it is.

All about 'Joe the Plumber'

Kirk, Minneapolis, MN — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 14:10:16 GMT

After reading some of these comments, I wonder if I was watching the same debate as most of you. It seemed to me that Obama side-stepped a lot of the questions that were asked of him. McCain went on the attack, he needed to, and Obama played a great game of side-step, change the subject matter, re-iterate his plans for tax cuts. McCain passed up a few chances of his own to respond to questions, but Obama looked like he didn't have answers to some of the questions asked of him, he looked as though he was simply wanting to share his plans, and not comment about the real questions being posed at him.
McCain didn't look bitter at all, he looked sharp, fresh, ready to take on the world and anyone in his way, Obama looked like he was there for the sake of spreading a message, not to stand up for the good of the nation, but to spread a message, that he can't even follow through on, and he knows it.

All about 'Joe the Plumber'

Tom Kyle, Louisville, KY — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 14:29:55 GMT

Who's Joe the Plumber? Who actually cares? Joe sounds like every other right wing talk show listener who's memorized just enough propaganda to come off as less than ignorant. Go back to your bomb shelter, Joe the Plumber. Please.

All about 'Joe the Plumber'

Jerry Dartley, Ashburn,VA — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 14:31:39 GMT

Enough of this Palin nonsense; relative to foreign policy experience, what's worse, a presidential candidate without any or a vice presidential candidate?

All about 'Joe the Plumber'

Ron Richardson Belen, NM — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 15:06:24 GMT

We are the true "Joe the Plummers" - both retired and on fixed income, along with millions more, yes working but making less than $250,000. Starting a business requiring more than $250,000 does NOT represent us!

All about 'Joe the Plumber'

Mary Orsini — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 15:19:40 GMT

In response to Sunny, the latest Harris poll shows that Roe v Wade has the growing support of 56% of Americans and that only 20% of Americans hold the extreme view banning all abortions in cases of rape or incest. This, unfortunately, is Sarah Palin's position. It isn't the female media's view that most women are pro choice. McCain's flip dismissal of the "health of the mother concern" will bite him at the polls.

It is also refreshing and reassuring to hear Joan's lucid description of the true Republican base, which is much more moderate than the extreme right wing of the GOP.

Good debate last night, but I fear McCain is going to blow a gasket.

All about 'Joe the Plumber'

AverageJoeTeacher — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 15:25:12 GMT

My husband and I are teachers and we are barely paying our bills. We are college educated and we are just getting by. My family comes from Eastern Europe and I felt sorry for them when they had to stand in line to get milk and toilet paper. McCain doesn't understand how average Americans are living. If he is elected we will lose our insurance benefits that we will not be able to replace for $5000 and next we will be standing in line for milk and toilet paper.

All about 'Joe the Plumber'

Karen — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 15:30:26 GMT

Has anyone taken the time to look at Obama's policies and realize that he is a socialist? Is this America or not?

All about 'Joe the Plumber'

Fisherofman, Eldon, Missouri — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 15:30:47 GMT

Don't really care about Joe the plumber. Many, many, many people work as hard or harder to achieve the same things, but for various reasons still only live paycheck to paycheck and are struggling to just survive. Most don't have the luxury of complaining about what MAY happen IF they try to start a business they do not have yet. BTW, how is he going to get a loan for a business given the bank situation which is still in trouble?
As the bible states, to whom much is given much is required or expected, and yet it is my experience that usually those who have less give more. That is how we have helped one another get by, I know this from personal experience. Less than 5 percent of Evangelicals give tithe, they rather horde than help, and that's why Yahweh is allowing the pocket books of the greedy to be hit, that's the only thing they care for.

All about 'Joe the Plumber'

Shari, Bloomington, IL — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 15:36:59 GMT

For Pat to argue Palin has been a help to the ticket, and that the only reason the Dems are ahead is the problems with the economy is to miss the relation between the two: that as the economy spirals, Palin's inexcusably uninformed and underprepared ability to deal with issues of this magnitude have become much more important than her "energy" and "freshness." Indeed, the Repos were ahead prior to the economy tanking (by a couple of points), but the public at that point had only seen Palin in canned speeches written by others, in her reported ultra-conservative social positions, and in the campaign's claims about her integrity, toughness, and experience. The facts of her failings would have proven false McCain's claim to have put "Country First" in his choice of VP by this point anyway; the economic issues have made that choice more terrifying.

All about 'Joe the Plumber'

Eneremadu Christian, Hamburg Germany — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 15:44:20 GMT

After carefully watching the debate Senator obama won the debate handsdown, senator mccain was almost fighting and not comfortable throughout the debate. he was like a student who did not study hard for the exams, then was running from pillar to pole to score a point. John Mccain should take it cool like Obama, the election is not do or die affair. cheers, Christian Eneremadu Hamburg Germany.

All about 'Joe the Plumber'

Bart Braverman, Los Angeles, CA — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 15:51:34 GMT

Whenever I watch a presidential debate I get the feeling I'm walking thru Death Valley. The sand is littered with bones, the vultures circle overhead, and I come upon a road sign that reads: "Welcome to Honolulu. Enjoy the Surf!"
Politicians want people to igore the facts and believe the rhetoric. And people do!

All about 'Joe the Plumber'

Anonymous, Columbus, OH — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 16:02:28 GMT

Joe the Plumber is a confused individual. Obama's plan would raise taxes on BUSINESS OWNERS who's own PERSONAL INCOME is over $250,000 a year. NOT businesses who generate more than $250,000 in sales a year. That would be ridiculous, $250,000 is nothing to a small business. I work for a small business and we generate millions annually. McCain's plan is to confuse the American people and unfortunately Obama isn't doing a great job of explaining his plan to the average citizen. Let's face it, if you're making over $250,000 a year you're VERY well off!

All about 'Joe the Plumber'

Patrick st.louis mo. — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 16:02:46 GMT

The fact that John McCain didn't wear an American Flag lapel pin for last nights debate should demonstrate just how temporal and superficial these attack issues have become. It's already off the radar map because it had no substance in the first place. We as the electorate are not stupid. We see these unimportant issues for what they are. Please get back to the real issues, unless of course you believe that William Ayers, Acorn and "Joe the plumber" were secretly involvedin a plot to remove Sen. McCain's lapel pin before he went on stage for the debate. Now that's a story.

All about 'Joe the Plumber'

Diane Molzahn, Wyoming, PA — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 16:10:21 GMT

I have watched all of the debates and i think that Obama was right on track. His demeanor has been calm, collect and on the issues and very presidential which we need. We don't need a hot head in the white house. We need someone who will sit down and discuss our problems in a rational way. Thats Mr. Obama.
I am sick and tired of hearing Mr. McCain and his negative attacks against Mr. Obama. I want to hear the issues of our economy and the Iraq War, not about some ayers guy from when Mr. Obama was eight years old. As far as them being on the same board, so what! Mr. Obama had nothing to do with that. Who knows who the people are that we are on boards or committes with. Look who Mr. Bush hangs around with!
Also, Mrs. Palin is a joke. Because she is a woman doesn't mean she represents all women, certainly not me. Give me a break! A fifteen minute interview with Mr McCain and she is picked to run for Vice President. Who was her references!
I'll vote for Mr. Obama anyday compared to another 4 or 8 years of McBush. Yes i said McBush. Mr. McCain has voted 90% of the time with Mr. Bush and look where we are now. It will be the same , don't kid yourself, just in another form on words.
Wake up America! Go out and Vote. You do count.

All about 'Joe the Plumber'

R Stevens, Las Vegas — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 16:15:45 GMT

"Joe the plumber" is not registered to vote in OH, according to court records has a tax lien against him, lived in Arizona last year and from what I read, no record of a plumbing license.
I think the media is being spoofed!

All about 'Joe the Plumber'

Maya, Austin, TX — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 16:28:53 GMT

John McCain needs to take his marbles and go home. Why does Barack have to apologize for comments correctly expressed by John Lewis. John Lewis is a great American hero that knows personally what happens when crowds are incited to violence. John McCain feelings were hurt because the truth hurts.

All about 'Joe the Plumber'

steve ,Penn — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 16:39:51 GMT

lets face it ...McCain is a lame duck.
There is no way in hell he will win.....so suck it up.
You might as well just vote for Obama and be on the Winning team!
;-)

All about 'Joe the Plumber'

DivaSoul, Dallas, TX — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 16:42:43 GMT

PLEASE LET IT BE KNOWN THAT NO ONE IS PRO-ABORTION!!!However, I can't understand how you Pro-Lifer's love, concern and BIG HEARTS for "right to life" stops at the door. You whine about people being on welfare, and you vote against any governmental support for the same Mothers you force to have these kids, and if they are put up for adoption you do nothing to adopt said children, especially if they are over 10 years old. They are held up in these adoption agencies waiting to be 18 so that they can be let out on society, forever feeling abandoned, unwanted and unloved. Where is your love, help and guidance for them? You help force them to be born, but you do nothing to aid them once they are here. Where is your passion for them? There are hundreds of these kids in these agencies right now, and I don't see your crew marching over there with your Big signs and BIG HEARTS bringing these kids to your homes!!! If you're going to preach right to life, give someone a real life - Go adopt, or shut up!

All about 'Joe the Plumber'

Barbara richmond va — Wed, 22 Oct 2008 00:06:56 GMT

how can you run for a office if you do not know what the vice president's job is what planet is sarah palin on or should i say what is she on too many six packs and mooseburges i quest and people are going to vote for her.